Our Last Two Weeks

Last Monday, we went in to see if we could find out the sex of the baby. And it was very, uh um...obvious. We are having another boy. The boys were thrilled and Tater was heartbroken. Her dreams of a little sister were dashed again (she also cried when Dubs was a boy). After some time alone, plenty of tears, and reassurance from us that this is exactly what God wants for us, she was fine. Pretty certain she's hoping that the next one will be a girl. LOL ;)

The kids and I did some last minute shopping midweek, and Shane joined me for the last bit. It was a tad frustrating and hectic, mainly due to stores not having exactly what I wanted. Have I mentioned that I'm a tad picky? Maybe one of these years I will become an online shopper. It just doesn't seem right for me to not be in all the hustle and bustle, touching and feeling the things I purchase. The traffic and lines are annoying, but I love the decor and sounds of the season. Next year when we have a little one, I may be singing a different tune. A very different tune!

Christmas Eve is always in N.C. spent with Shane's family. His parents have several dogs, chickens, and horses, so it is nearly impossible to keep the kids inside. At least one of them is always at the barn, playing with the dogs, running over to Mamaw's, or riding something. All of us enjoyed a late lunch, we read the Christmas story, and then exchanged gifts. It was a really sweet time. Afterward, we went to Mamaw's for more food and visiting. Then we packed up and headed to GA.

Christmas Day is always spent with my side of the family. Both of my sisters were at my Mom's (Grammy's) house when we arrived. Since we were late getting there Friday night, I think it was almost noon on Saturday before we exchanged gifts. This is the first year we ditched Santa completely. He wasn't missed! The kids attempted to open everything they received there and cast it throughout Grammy's house. Needless to say, they really liked their new toys and games.
The rest of the time at Mom's was spent cooking, chatting, laughing, scolding, eating, chatting, laughing, cooking, eating, scolding, chatting, and eating some more. We did sleep at night! None of us got to go to church on Sunday due to weather conditions. That stunk. On Monday, we had a couple of girl trips to the stores to see if there was anything we couldn't live without. Apparently there were some. Tuesday we packed up and headed north. On the way, we stopped in Canton to visit one of my GA friend's, Laura, and her children. I hadn't seen her since the summer. A couple hours later, we were on the road again! We arrived home late Tuesday night, thus ending our holiday travels. And boy, were we pooped.

Now we are almost "normal" and looking forward to the weekend. This week we are doing school Wednesday through Friday. Laundry is constant, as are dishes, and I'm becoming more and more aware of my hump! Gonna have to do things sideways soon.

My sister, Jen, bought us a newborn gown gift set and burp cloths for Christmas. (That is the first outfit that we've obtained since we've known we were expecting.) I've been unwilling to buy anything baby related out of fear. Fear that I would miscarry again. Fear that we wouldn't bring home a baby. I know it seems dumb, but I also know that we aren't guaranteed anything. Jen's gift and finding out he's a boy has helped me to relax. So one one of the girlie shopping trips, I picked up an outfit for next fall/winter. Only in the last week have I really been able to feel his movement. Every time I feel him, it brings comfort that this time things are going well. We are almost half way through this pregnancy and closer to meeting "Munchie"--you knew I'd have a nickname! Looking forward to meeting our new little honey pie.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
-Psalm 127:3

The Lord is my strength and my my shield;
My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped;
Therefore my heart greatly rejoices,
And with my song I will praise Him.
-Psalm 28:7

Whenever I am afraid,
I will trust in You.
-Psalm 56:3

I Heart Texting

I was possibly one of the last people to learn how to text....seriously. I started texting right before your parents learned how---and you thought that would never happen! For a while, I thought it was something that only the "young" people did. I prided myself in phone calls, you know actually talking to people. Texting seemed so impersonal and thoughtless. And for a while, I only did it when I really couldn't talk like in a Dr.'s office or something.
At some point I got off my high horse and down into the real world. Of course, I don't want to get to a place where I never have actual conversations or write cards. Those things are precious and can't be replaced. Currently, it is much easier and efficient for me to communicate with my family and friends by texting. Like today, I wanted to ask my Mom a question and didn't have time at that particular moment to have a full fledged chat. I simply texted her and she quickly replied with an answer. Not impersonal. Not thoughtless.
Most of the time when we are doing school, I don't have my phone right beside me. Neither the kids nor I need the distraction. I will occasionally check it throughout the day to see if I've missed one. So if you ever wonder why I haven't responded, that is why.
In addition, I love being able to send several people the same message. It's like 3-way calling in elementary school except I'm not trying to see who they like or whatever. Event planning is made much easier with fast responses. Oh, I forgot to mention that I can't access the Internet from my phone, so that also makes texting more appealing. I don't have to turn on the computer, check my email, and then reply.
I love an hour marathon call as much as the next chatty-Cathy, but my life allows for few and far between of those. My girlfriends always knew that they could call me on a road trip and I'd almost get them to their destination. Don't know if that was good or bad. Anyway, I do miss catching up in great detail and feeling more intimately connected. Thankfully, God has given me wonderful friends who don't feel insecure when we don't talk every day or every week. It took me a while to be ok with less, but I've had to accept it and not feel bad or disappointed.
Texting, I heart you. My life is easier with you. My time management has improved. you've enabled me to talk to people when I otherwise couldn't. Sorry I looked down my big bratty nose at you. U r gr8t!

Love My Planner

I have a homeschool organizer called "The Well~Planned Day" and I love it. Not only because it helps me be more efficient, but I love the encouragement inside. There are stories, scripture, quotes, etc. It's just so good! Check these quotes out:

You can always tell when you are on the road to righteousness - it's uphill.
-Ernest Blevins

When a Christian ceases to grow, he begins to decay.
-Clate Risley

Of two evils, choose neither.
-Charles Spurgeon

Christianity is either relevant all the time or useless anytime. It is not just a phase of life; it is life itself.
-Richard Halverson

I'm Fasting

Don't freak out on me. It's definitely not food!
Last night as I laid awake with insomnia, I was convicted of my interest in celebrities. After praying and repenting, it seemed I wasn't quite done. I needed to do something to break up my connection with Hollywood. I decided to fast. One month without checking People.com (or any other similar site).
Ever since Biscuit was a toddler, I haven't bought any magazines that I thought would be inappropriate for little eyes. She couldn't read, but it didn't matter to me. Instead, I've been able to satisfy my interest in "stars" by checking out People, etc. In addition, having a consistent quiet time has been one of my struggles for the last few months and it's really bothered me. I can tell a difference in myself. I concluded that my desire to know the latest whatever and my lack of discipline in doing devotions may be connected. If I'm not carving out time with Him, then I don't have time to waste on that stuff. It's a bad habit that I need to break.
I also recently listened to a sermon by Mark Driscoll on "The Truth and the Lies in Worship." He discusses this topic and God really used it to open my eyes. I don't feel like I'm idolizing celebrities, but I've definitely had too much interest in their lives.
As a believer in Jesus Christ, I'm called to write His Word on my heart, put it in my mind, and have it in my mouth (and I can with the help of the Holy Spirit). Basically, I've just not been doing that diligently and it's time.

Jackpot

Our home computer is being finicky, so I can't get online. That's annoying. Shane plugged his up so I could edit a grammatical error on my blog. Before he let me get to blogging, he scrolled through his endless stash of pics. I couldn't believe all the pics of our family that he has been hoarding (storing, whatever) on here. So I decided that this is my chance to put some up. I don't have these on mine. I'm not very computer savvy, so they may never be. Some of these may be old, but you'll get over it.

Playing Catch-Up

Since it has been almost an eternity since I last blogged, I will give you the cliff notes version of our fall. Back in September we found out that we are pregnant. It was a bit of a surprise after so many (it felt like so many) months of no's. We obviously were thrilled, but we wanted to see how this one went before sharing it with our kids or families. After several tests confirmed that this one was progressing better than the last, we told our kids. Tater cried...she was overcome with joy. The boys were happy, too, and now they all take turns predicting the sex. It's pretty sweet.


Usually when I'm preggers, I have one rough week and then it's smooth sailing. Not this time around. It has been the hardest one by far! Both the exhaustion and the nausea have been like all my others combined. Shane has taken care of bedtime most nights when I am stuck to the sofa. I'm so thankful that he's been in town and so willing to help me do whatever I've needed. Now, if he can just take over cleaning the shower...LOL


We are almost through the first trimester. Things should be getting back to "normal" and I'll just be a bigger version of myself. I'm ready to not be asleep before I see who gets the boot on "Dancing w/ the Stars" and to load the dishes without being grossed out! This little one is due in May. Perfect timing for (hopefully) wrapping up my school year and then getting to take care of a newborn over the summer.


Other than the pregnancy, our lives are pretty much the same. November is the beginning of the slammed weekends and holiday stuff for us. Even though our kids currently aren't in sports, with b-days, ministry socials and life, we are busy bees. Our Biscuit has a birthday this month and I'm working on making it really special for her. We also are planning a social to get our Care Group together this month. Then it's Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and next thing you know it's December.


Ahhh, but back to November. We had some family pictures done a couple of weeks ago. Denise is family (Shane's aunt) and she was ultra patient with our brood. It's nearly impossible to get all of us looking good in one shot. Such is life. Last year, one of our cut backs was Christmas cards. It was the first time in so many years that we didn't send them out. This year, we are going to use the pictures that Denise took of us to make our cards and hopefully get them out by the end of the month. I thought I'd share one w/ you. By the way, it's good to talk to you again. Oh yes, that's kids I hear yelling and rough-housing in the background...must run!

Schoolin'

We didn't take a 'Summer Break' like most schools. Although we didn't end, we started back in August. It's slammin! Seriously. When I started out with just one 5 five yr old in Pre K, I had no idea what lay ahead for me. Not that it would have changed my decision, but perhaps I would have seen how easy it was back then. But when you have three children under 5, you don't see things as easy. At least I didn't. As I was saying, we have been back in school (or continuing, whatever) for many weeks. It takes most of my day to help all three do all they need to do. Three kids X's three grades=busy.

Our first 'subject' is Bible. Our devotional is titled "Choosing Obedience" by Kaye Freeman. It is excellent! We are planning to continue using her devotionals throughout the year. They are short workbooks. One of the main reasons I chose them is because character building is a top priority for us. Check out some of the titles: "Choosing Humility," "Choosing Responsibility," and "Choosing Self-Control." Excited to see how God uses them in all of us!

This year, we are using The Story of the World for History. Tater and E-Dog are together in this subject. Tater will also have to learn state history this year because that is what is taught in our public schools.

For Science, we are doing Apologia's Exploring Creation with Astronomy. I adore their science program. The big two are only one grade apart, so we are able to combine History and Science(and soon Latin--I have it, but haven't started yet).We bought one textbook for them to share and then they each have their own notebook journals. A few of us crazy homeschooling families are also having "Science Days" where we'll hang out and do experiments together. I'm so grateful to have some friends that homeschool! It can feel so lonely when you don't have anyone that you talk to regularly that understands some of the challenges and joys. God is so loving to give us who we need when we need them. His timing is perfect. And I have to give a shout out to Lala. Thanks so much for telling me to get "Adventures in Odyssey." The kids love it! We listened to them in the car while traveling over the river and through the woods to Nana's house. A bit of honesty... I cried a little when Whit's wife died. Whatta sap! {Those cd's are a great break from the radio and my worn out collection of discs that have been in the changer since I was blonde.}

Wednesday

So it's Wednesday again...sometimes I feel like my weeks go: Sunday, Monday(boo), already Wednesday, Friday(yay!), and then Saturday. Then they replay.



I don't have anything against Wednesdays. I actually like them. Our children attend Awanas and I work in the nursery on Wed pm. It has been really nice to get to know the ladies that I work with every week. Those friendships have been an added blessing for sure.



The only down side to Wednesday is dinner. I don't want to cook. We have to be there so early. (Most nights I usually don't even start cooking until 6, depending on Shane's schedule)
And I've tried before to cook something in the 4's and then shove it down their throats(not really). Of course it's inevitable that the times we need to hurry, the kids are slower, so then the scolding commences. Not fun. For them or for me. Isn't Wednesday supposed to be a blessing and not a curse?
And we've done the have a snack and then eat dinner late. Don't like that. Who wants to eat at 8:45-9pm? Not me. Especially now that I'm in my "slow metabolism" thirties.

I know many of you are saying, "Stop and get fast food!" I actually don't pass any fast or slow food on my way to church. This happens to be a great money saving device every other day of the week, but on Humpday it bites.

So we are gonna try eating soup on Wednesday nights. It's cheap. It can be customized for picky palettes. It's quick. Few dishes dirtied and hopefully less scolding!

Josie the Great

As you know, we got Josie last week for a one week trial. She was potty-trained, well mannered, and very loving. Overall she's a great dog.

We were told that she woke up at 6 a.m. and that sounded ok to me. Guess her clock got jacked up since every night (except last night) she got up at 4 a.m. (and one night she got up at midnight,too!) The first few nights we got up to take her out, but she didn't go to the bathroom. That was annoying. We figured out that she was just wanting to be loved and getting used to our home. Many nights of rotten sleep were strike one.

Strike two was all the dog hair. She was a shedder. Maybe not the worst shedder of all time, but we were constantly using a lint brush. It's not a deal breaker, but it's just more for me to think about and more work. Shane loves to lay in the floor and felt like he couldn't because of the hair. That wasn't something that we'd ever get used to...

Strike three was extra laundry. After I held her, the clothes I was wearing became "dog clothes" in my mind. Dog clothes equalled dirty. Equalled not wearing again until laundered. I usually wear my jeans twice, so that meant only wearing them once. More laundry is more work for moi.

I barely ever see the bottom of my hampers, so this almost counted as several strikes.

Strike four was our freedom. Both sets of grands live in other states and we like to visit them. Only one set would have allowed her to come, so that was a problem. We don't have the disposable money to board a dog every time we go out of town. Was thinking ahead to holidays and wondered if the cost of boarding would be a financial burden...UM, YES it would. I also didn't want to put any of my friends in a bad position by asking if they would dog sit for us when we traveled. Just not gonna do that to them.

I could go on, but you get the point. Our family likes dogs, but we don't want the work or cost of one full time. I felt a tad guilty, but mostly I'm glad we tried. Josie is a sweetie and whoever ends up with her is going to be so happy. She deserves a family that wants the responsibility and can afford to take great care of her. We certainly didn't want to end up resenting her.

Although it may have not been the easiest answer for our hearts, it is the best answer for our current lifestyle. Praying everyday that we had her (and before), I have peace about not keeping her. Daily I asked God to give Shane and I unity in the decision. He was faithful to show us and I know His plan is best. So glad I sought Him and didn't follow our emotions.

You are a sweet girl, Josie, and we'll miss you. Our short time with you was precious and we are grateful for the memories~

Josie

I just caught E adding a dog to our family picture. To the far right he made the baby we lost earlier this year a little boy (and of course, Tater likes to think it was a girl) and then he just added a little dog.

Her name is Josie. She's coming for a home visit tonight. Josie is probably a Daschund and Jack Russell mix, but we aren't sure because she's from a local dog rescue. All of us are excited to see how her visit goes! We'll let ya know if she's a keeper~

Round the Table

Our family has all been home together this week. For us, this is a special treat considering my husband's work schedule. Not only has he been home every night, we have sat together (all 5 of us) for dinner. At the same table. Did I hear a gasp?

We've decided to utilize our dining room table a.k.a. the junk collector(Fly Lady would refer to it as a "hot spot"). It's a round glass top that has a wooden pedestal base. Our old dining room couldn't handle a rectangle table, so we gotta a circle. Ended up being a good choice.

Added benefit: By using it every night, it doesn't get a chance to get piled.

I had forgotten that it is so nice to all sit together! For so long we've had a straggler ostracized at the kitchen bar while the rest of the fam sat at the breakfast table. Why did it take us three years to do this? Duh.

Being my silly self, I noticed that there's still room to seat more peeps(I was thinkin' bambinos). When I suggested my observation, the conversation got lively. I believe it was E who said, "Yeah, like for five more."

Then T pipes in, "Five more kids!"

Chuckling, I ask "Five kids?!"

And Tater reassures me adding, "And room for high chairs! Five high chairs!"

Yikes. We all had a good laugh.The thought of five high chairs around my dining table is a little much. Can you see my eyes bulging outta my head? We'd probably need one of these beauties~

A few weeks ago I looked online for a large farm house table. One of my old neighbors had one ( I think from American Signature) and it was cool. No matter what or who comes to dinner, these tables seem to be able to handle it. Love these. Especially if you need five high chairs.

Prayer Request

My sweet friend, Audrea, has been through so much in the last few weeks. If you're my "friend" on fb, then you've seen my numerous status updates regarding her situation. Without rehashing the details, I just wanted to share her with you and ask you to pray.

She is a wife to Jeff and a stay-at-mom of three children under four.

Describing her as a woman of strong faith is an understatement. Her blog: http://funkycoldmedinas.blogspot.com/

Book Worm

I can't remember the last time I've read a novel, much less fiction.

My sister, Jenn, and my Mom had both highly recommended a book to me last year.

Usually I am just glad to read the Bible, a devotional, or a book on Christian living.

I actually love to read, but it requires my undivided attention and that is hard to come by. Three kids home (basically all the time) and trying to do the things already on the list...well, there just isn't room for getting sucked into a fictional story.

At least that's what I thought. I'm at my Mom's and have been here quite a bit in the last two weeks. Most of last week, I was keeping up on my sweet friend Audrea. I'll hook you up with her blog on my next post.

Well, yesterday I saw that book again(it's been laying around my Mom's). That one that J and M had suggested to me. It was there and I was there. So I started it.

Um, got completely sucked in.

In fact, I had to make myself put it down as to quit neglecting my family(I think around page 211). It was CRAZY!! I have never wanted to devour a book like that...not a novel...ever. So after I put it down the first time, I decided that I wouldn't read anymore of it yesterday.

Wrong.

Two kids and a hubs napping, and I was off again. Sucked in.

Can't remember how long I read it while Tater was swimming, but it was long enough to get a nice little sunburn across my back. I did sunscreen. Apparently the spray didn't cover me completely. I was too engulfed in my book to care or feel the damage being done. Now I have a burning reminder of my obsession.

I did break free once again and didn't read anymore until today. I finished it before I ate breakfast. Before coffee. I know. It's nuts. I was consumed. Obsessed.

Drum roll, please...................it is "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers. You better get your rear-end to the store (or amazon, whatever) and get it. And if you sit outside, make sure you rub in your SPF.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

That book is dangerous.

Giving Shane a Chuckle

My man seems to think that these two dudes look alike. Can you see a resemblance?

Good Weekend, but No Pics

Last Saturday our fam went to the zoo, Marble Slab, and the Bass Pro Shop. That place brings out my inner redneck (if there is one). I packed the camera, but never took it out of the backpack!! Grrr. Maybe it was because it was so hot that day. Wait for it. Here it comes. It was hot as blue blazes. As far as the camera goes, I didn't really think about it when we were out and about. While we were @ Bass Pro, we saw some Amish peeps. That was interesting.
I'm definitely outta the habit of taking pics. Never thought I'd be that girl. In the last few years, I've taken less and less. Hope to break that bad habit soon. After all, my munchkins and man are as dear to me as ever...most days.
It has been so hot here. We simply cannot spend much time outdoors. Early morning and late evenings are the only times we can tolerate the heat. Due to the enormous time spent inside, I've once again got on a painting kick. Well, the idea of painting kick. Most of our house has not been painted and it needs it. BAD. Oh and this isn't a pic of our bathroom, but I love, love it.


When we first moved here, I totally made my house an idol. I spent far too much time thinking about it. How it was decorated meant too much to me. (I'm sure many people who are new to an area and haven't developed friendships could struggle with this. I believe that where we moved from and the culture there deeply influenced me...my Mom never had custom anything, so it wasn't how I was raised. As an adult, living in an affluent area for a long time did some damage that I didn't see until we moved. Currently we aren't insulated with wealth.) After God showed me my idolatry, I had to consciously take our home off the pedestal and change.
But then I went too far the other direction. I haven't finished projects or even hung things that I already own in an effort to get over the way my house looks.
Now it is time to bring the pendulum to the middle, and do what needs to be done without it meaning more than it should. Maybe I'll paint soon and if I do, I'll try to remember my camera...
Oh yeah, and we had a fun Fourth of July! We hung out with our friends Trey and Joanna (who have baby Hannah--the pink diaper cake post from earlier this year). They had their BF's from Johnson City over and we all hung out. The men and kids went swimming while we ladies ran our mouths and stayed dry. Then we went back to the house and watched fireworks. Many of their neighbors had gathered in the cul-de-sac and the guys took turns lighting them. It was a good time! And somehow, I didn't take pics there either. Whatta dope!

Love ya'll,
Comma Queen

E's Little Hobby

My sweet E loves the computer. He'd be on here everyday if I'd let him.

{I'm not sure how often any of the kids are on here, but it isn't daily. To avoid fights, we set the timer for twenty minutes and turns are rotated between them. It may seem restrictive...and it is purposely. With our computer in the main living area, we're able to see everything they are doing. I know they are little, but Satan would love to expose our munchkins to the evil available online. Our Safe Eyes filter really cuts out a lot of junk, but additionally we monitor them closely.}

Lately, when E-dog has a turn to be on the computer he draws pictures. Thought I'd share some with you.

Can you tell I've had a bit more time lately? Prepare for a blogging drought with VBS around the corner...I'll be pooped.

In the Backyard

Shane salvaged two rather large pieces of handmade lattice a few months ago. They are from the same job that provided our cherry trees. Currently, the lattice is painted blue (for now) and being stored in our garage. The reason I wanted Shane to save them is so that he can build an arbor or trellis for our backyard. I love them! Yes, another project on that forgotten to-do list.

I've got a really good idea of what I want him to build and what other materials we will need. It's just a matter of allocating the funds and having the time to complete it. Ours will not look like this picture, I just like thought this one was really cool. Right up my traditional and formal alley.

Last night, we sat on the patio and were talking about where to build it. The arbor or trellis will not be mobile, so we need to be sure.

Our plans are to place our new-old swing under it. The swing is old, but new to us. Its original color was green, but we are painting it a hammered brown. Almost done with that part.

There is no rush for this project other than reclaiming my parking spot.

Udderly Hilarious

The other night cow udders came up.

I don't remember how or why.

My precious little E had made a rather interesting observation.

He said that cow udders looked like a lot of...and then he pointed south...

The house erupted in laughter. Mostly mine.

Once I recovered, I proceeded to explain to him that udders were not part of a cow's excretory system---I'm sure he understood that! Ha! I just wasn't sure how exactly to explain it to him. So thanks to the trusty ole' Internet, the kids and I looked up info on that area.

But, that exploration added more fuel to E-dog's fire and he began shooting off questions about where baby cows come out. Then he and Tater teamed up on me wanting to see a birth or dissection, whichever I'd let them see (they were reading all the things listed in the Google search).

We didn't watch any videos.

A mom must know her daily limit.

Seeing a human birth when I was 21 horrified me, and so I concluded that we'd avoid the birthing footage.

Maybe another day.

Far away.

All this talk made me realize that living on a farm provides so many experiences and answers. Don't misunderstand the previous statement. I have no desire to have a farm. It just seems that when kids are exposed to animals and their life cycles daily, they learn so much!

And I know, you can always go visit a dairy or farm and see what goes on.

But not so long ago people had farms or at least a cow, had chickens, grew big gardens...it was a different world.

A world without computers, cable TV, ipods, cell phones, malls, etc.

It was a simple life.

When I say simple it is in no way degrading. Simple meaning less complicated. Maybe their time was spent do more meaningful things and less time was wasted.

Just some thoughts.

Oh, and by the way E, thanks for the mammaries.

I couldn't resist.:)

Oops, I Did It Again

Yes. I've done it once again. I have been awarded "Worst Blog Ever" for the second month straight. Blogging has fallen off my list. I apologize.

Hubs has been working out of town and I have been Mom-Solo. (possible relation to Hans)Thus, leaving me with little relief or the mindset to blog.

This week, I tried Tony Horton. Again. Did something with 'plyo' in the name (part of the P90X series, I don't wanna go downstairs to find it). It was so good! Lots of jumping. I laid in the floor for the last 20 mins, like I do every time I try to do one of those workouts.

This blog post will be random due to my undiagnosed A.D.D.

In other unrelated news, my Mom came for a visit this weekend. She and the "Pea" came up and stayed for a few days. My kids went crazy over the dog (they want one soooo bad). I decided last year that it would be 2011 before we try again. The big two fought over 'Sweet Pea' and W couldn't relax around him. There was a lot of scolding and redirecting.

Mom was here to see Tater's recital. Grammy, Nana, Aunt Shell, and Damon came to watch her. Although T was a tad nervous, she pulled herself together and danced beautifully. No sign of nerves or fear. She was excellent. We were all so proud! After the show, I asked her what she did to calm down. She said she asked God to help her. That a girl, Bisc~

I have somehow (even though I live here) forgotten all the projects I have left to do. The lower half of my dining room needs to be painted. The banquette is still a dream. My seed packets for my herb garden are in my junk drawer. The bird feeder needs to be refilled. I will get to them.

We school through the summer, so that and W's sensory diet take up a good bit of time.

OH.The laundry. It's like the movie 'Gremlins.' Maybe it ate after midnight and multiplied. I don't know what's up with it. I do laundry everyday and don't see the bottoms of the hampers.

I'm considering implementing some classical methods into our homeschool. Buying "The Well Trained Mind" is on my to-do list. W wants to start Kindergarten now, so I'm planning to start with him in June after VBS.

This weekend, we are going to picnic at the park with friends. Thoughts of fried chicken and all things high carb are on my brain. Maybe I'll replace the potato salad with coleslaw so that I'll have less guilt and bloating. Wink, wink.

One of my friends got her first bikini wax this week. Been there, done that. That story is for women only. And apparently she's not going back either...

I consider having my nose pierced quite regularly. I have an inner punk. Maybe it will happen. My friends opinions are mixed. Can't really say why I haven't done it yet. Except when I'm preggers, I don't want anything sparkly in my widened nose. If I do it, I'll show you.

Speaking of preggers, I found out in March that I was expecting. I was about five weeks, but just didn't feel peace about sharing it. I didn't tell my dearest friends for a week or so, and we didn't tell our families. After my first blood test, the dr's office asked me to come back because my progesterone level was high. They wanted to check it again to see if there was more than one baby. So, I had the second test. The results showed that my HCG level wasn't doubling. It should have been if it was a healthy pregnancy.

They told me that it probably wasn't viable. Instead of finding out how many, we found out that we'd likely miscarry. That was difficult. I cried a lot that first day. And then the next day, I didn't feel like I was pregnant anymore. I began to really doubt that the baby would survive. My symptoms faded. It was depressing. I prayed a lot and knew that it was in His control. That didn't diminish the pain and disappointment.

After a couple of blah days, I decided to have hope until the dr told me that there wasn't any. Even though I didn't feel pregnant anymore, I knew that God could do anything. Blood work that week and a sonogram confirmed that we would miscarry. So then I had to wait.

It was consuming. They told me all the signs and symptoms. I just had to wait. Waited for a week. Then it finally started and that was another week. Those days were long, but they really aided in my healing. As I look back, we only had that first week to dream. Think about how we'd tell our children. How we'd tell our family. Changes that we'd need to make to have a nursery. It was only a week. But in that week I had a million thoughts. I even bought maternity spanx...not knowing that I wouldn't need them.

Thank you to all our friends that prayed for us. It was such a blessing to have the support and encouragement.

Shane and I have learned so much through all of this and are grateful for the lessons. Our hearts were broken, but they are better now. I wouldn't say healed, but definitely healing. It has made heaven a little sweeter to me. Some have mentioned the "why?" and to me it doesn't matter. I'm not looking for that answer. God is in control and His plan is perfect. Even when it hurts. When we are open and surrendered to Him, then we are open to loss. And He is with us through everything.

Talk to you soon~

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, and to those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;

Psalm 37:7

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Matthew 5:4

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-17

My flesh and my heart fail;

But God is the strength of my heart and my portion.

Psalm 73:26

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

And God will wipe every tear away from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.

Revelation 21:4

Rock City, Baby!

The kids and I met up with my Mom and my sister, Jen, in Chattanooga. We started the day at Rock City. The weather was fabulous..just beautiful. All the kids loved it. It's a magical place for them just like it was for me when I was young(er). Jen accidentally knocked her sunglasses down a ravine. I figured that she'd just leave them, but she asked for someone to retrieve them and they did! (it wasn't a very dangerous spot) Her fave glasses were rescued.

After lunch (which I will not say how many pieces of pizza we each ate--rhymes with snore) we had ice cream (you must have ice cream at an ice cream shoppe even if your stuffed like a tick about to bust), then went to Ruby Falls.

I had a feeling that this was a lot to expect from my W, but he was fine. For the first half. Once we reached the waterfall, Dubs was on the verge of a meltdown and needed a nap. I knew the only way I could help was to carry him. So I did. The farther I walked, the more my ill-fitting pants kept riding down.

It was easier to manage the narrow walkway with him on my back, but I fought with my britches the whole time. Kept one arm holding his rear and the other yanking my pants up or pulling the back of my shirt down. Blast those low fitting khaki pants!

Not to be too personal, but the reason I fought so hard to keep my pants up was due to the fact that I had on some unattractive undies that needed to stay hidden. (I'm never a fan of any underwear of any type, color, fit, etc, showing out the top of any one's pants.) So, I fought the good fight. I switched him to the front at some point and continued on. I was so relieved when we reached the elevator! Carrying 45lbs of dead, dangling weight, battling saggy-ish pants that threatened to reveal too much, for 3/5 miles ... Ruby was quite an adventure for me!! LOL (miraculously, there are no photos from this part of the trip)

My favorite part of Ruby Falls was while W was still awake. Another group leaving the falls passed by us in the narrow tunnel. Some of the kids were trying to 'hi-five' us. My germa-phobic self wasn't interested, but Dubs loved it! He 'high-fived' anyone who would! It was really sweet.

Chattanooga was so fun and I can't wait to go again.

Grammy, that was a great present for W that ended up being a gift for all of us! Thank you!

Most Boring Blog Ever

I apologize to anyone who comes across this blog, and to my Mom who checks it everyday. I'm unofficially the Most Boring Blog...at least for April. I will give my list of reasons that I haven't blogged much lately, but this is what I say about excuses:

EXCUSES ONLY SATISFY THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE THEM.

There are few exceptions. Between being a wife, mom, homeschooler, friend, poorly skilled seamstress, therapist, referee, occasional maid, lawn girl, and barber--- I am a rather junky blogger. Yes, I know.

The only way I can see that this area will improve is to schedule a time for this...er..hobby? I guess I'll call it a hobby. Anyway, so many other things are vying for my time and it is a challenge right now for me to post something interesting, amazing, or lack luster.

I have had some great adventures and countless sweet moments.

[I also had IBS at Target which was neither great or sweet, but rather hilarious and horrible. Yes, I know, TMI.]

My youngest honey pie, Dubs, celebrated a birthday in April. No party this year, he wanted to be home. The cookie cake that we had was so yummy. It was devoured in three days (could've been two). We went to Rock City and Ruby Falls with my Mom and sister Jen. Such a special time and a great gift for my little honey. Those pics will be up soon. April was a great! Sorry if it looked and read to be extremely boring!! Will try harder!

Maybe Soon?

I still have banquette dreams.

Although we are currently enjoying a break from sports(other than ballet/dance), our weekends have not provided the opportunity to take on this project.

[BTW, has anyone else noticed that home ownership is quite demanding? I am grateful to still even be in our house, especially considering all the financial difficultly in the last couple of years. That being said, maintaining a home is very time consuming and expensive.]

Of course I contemplate paying someone else to help us, but then I am snapped back to the reality that we are trying to reduce our expenses. Hiring anything to be done, mowed, painted, built, whatever, is not in the monthly budget.

Plus, Shane and I both struggle to pay someone else for things that we can do ourselves (within reason). Zoiks! This post was not intended to be a published complaint! My apologies.

I'm just hoping that if I write about our breakfast room project, maybe it will be catapulted to the top of the list. The tabletop itself is a big task because it will be a mosaic.

The construction and painting of the benches and table will take many weeks from start to finish, but I'm really looking forward to it.

Our Transplants

This is one of the cherry trees that Shane brought home many weeks ago. We planted the other between us and a neighbor(it's bigger and lately not lookin' too good), two Dwarf Alberta spruces, and two other evergreen shrubs. A small excavator was used to dig the holes for the trees and for their installation.

I made a planting area that has three of our transplants. We were amazed when the cherry tree bloomed! It seemed like a huge shock, but guess she's doing okay.

Glad to have something green in the backyard other than the weeds.:-)

Girl Talk

Today, Tater and I were having a little chat while I was switching the laundry. She mentioned wanting to go to a tourist attraction in a nearby town. Then asked if we could go. I told her that we couldn't afford to go this month. (after Easter outfits and other extra expenses, the disposable $ is gone)

We skimmed over spending, budgeting, cutting back, etc. Personally, I'd way rather eat out less and make other changes in order to go on an actual vacation.

She said she'd like to go to the beach or Colorado(to ride horses--silly girl) and I assured her we wouldn't be going to Colorado. LOL

But, I would love to go to the beach. Tater was giddy just thinking of vacation. I suggested that if it was something that she wanted, then she should pray about it. After all, if we end up going it will be a gift from Him. T crossed her arms. She was thinking.

"Well, I can't decide which one to pray for: going on vacation or a baby sister." For those of you who don't know, she's prayed on and off for years for a sister. I chuckled. "You don't have to choose one. Pray for both. The Bible says that we should take everything to God in prayer."

Oh my Tater Biscuit, she's a treasure.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.

Philippians 4:6-7

Wanna Use My Purdy Brushes

Spring is one of my fave times to paint. As long as the pollen count isn't re-donk-u-lus, it is awesome painting weather. Not too hot. Not too humid. You can open windows for ventilation without the guilt and fear of your power bill at the end of the month. It's just, in my opinion, an excellent time. I'm a big fan of painting. Rooms. Pictures. Furniture. Nails. Faces. You name it, I would attempt to paint it.

We have many areas of our home that need a fresh coat. The other day, I picked up some swatches. I'm thinking that I may do the playroom or the schoolroom. (but not the stairwell-it's a booger) Neither are particularly challenging, and both have horrendous markings from about waist height down. Guess the guilty party.

I have some appreciation for hand prints on the walls. But these aren't hand prints. Or smudges. They vary from scrapes, to scratches, to dry erase marks, and various inspired Crayola creations. Not a fan. Keep the crayons on paper, kids! I'd rather frame them.

Purdy brushes, prepare yourselves! I have a feeling you gals are gonna be working hard very soon!!

No plans for green paint, but I love green rooms and this one feels fresh, springy, and conducive for naps. I likey.

On the Radio

In the last week, I've been in my car much more than usual. It's been so nice to hear the radio because I usually don't listen to it. (at home we don't have it on) I've known of Mandisa, but wasn't familiar with the songs that she sings or her albums.





I'm probably the last person in America to realize that I'm a big fan of her music! LOL Guess that's what happens when you don't stay current to the Billboard charts or regularly listen to the radio. Alas, my beloved Travis Cottrell cd is going to have to be used in moderation...don't want to be this behind again. Mandisa's latest album has some great stuff. My fave so far is #9 titled "He is With You." Check her out at http://mandisa.sparrowrecords.com
[On the preview, my pic looks small, so I apologize if it looks little. Still learning.]

Hooked on Salad instead of Suga

Many months ago, we hung out with some friends and ate dinner together. They served a Caesar salad and chicken casserole. Well, I don't know if I had the beginning stages of scurvy, but I was crazy about that salad. It was so good. (She used Ken's dressing, so you know it was off the chain.) It began what I'll fondly refer to as my salad obsession.

Caesar, Greek, pasta, whatever--salads everywhere have been enticing me ever since that night. Even coleslaw(we'll consider it salad) from Calhoun's has been a near errand running diversion! But, I didn't cave. Aren't you proud?! Even a little side salad can catch my eyes...silly, I know.

An added mental benefit is I don't feel guilty eating them the way I do about so many other foods. The more I am conscious with my diet the less I have to exercise. YIPPEE!

Little side note: I decided a while back to start paying attention to what I was eating. Let's just say my clothes were letting me know that something needed to change, either my eating habits or their sizes. Not cool with the latter. My life long sidekick 'suga' had to be taken down quite a few notches. Surprisingly(to me), I've felt so much better since I've reduced my sugar intake. It's been really hard to say no to myself so much. Still have coffee everyday, but not three or four cups. Don't gasp, it's true. And I switched to half and half(not my fave) instead of using my delicious hazelnut creamer. Every little bit helps.

Suga, I can have you in small doses, but you can't be the center of my food interest and affections anymore. Still love you...and miss the junk outta you some days, Me

(Disclaimer: I can always make exceptions for mint chocolate chip ice cream. :)