Not Quite the Duggars, but...

I'm quickly learning how much time and management having a "big" family requires. It's very different from having a smaller family. There's just more.
More laundry, more food, more stuff in the floor, more dishes(bottles), more people desiring your attention and sweet skillz. It's a lot. Add in the fact that we are homeschooling. Why yes, we are crazy. I just got fitted for my tight white jacket.

Sleeping through the night, having a reliable schedule, and regular exercise will surely help to alleviate some of the stress. Hoping that they all come soon. I'm really trying to be efficient and do all the things that I know God wants me to do. Unfortunately that often puts any "me" time on the bottom of the list, only to get bumped off and put onto the next day. Say it with me, this too, shall pass. The sooner the better!

We are doing devotions regularly with two sweet books each titled, "Jesus Calling." One is for big people and the other is for kids(not preschool though). It's been good to all learn and focus on certain biblical principles and scripture together, yet each on our own levels. If you are in a season where you are stretched thin and have minimal time, these books are really well suited for you. Beth Moore is in my future, but for now I don't need another thing to feel like I'm behind in or not doing well. My sweet friend, Chris, sent me a devotional for moms and I've read some in it. I can't have a book in my vicinity and not peek. It will be a good addition for me now since it doesn't require much time. It's called "100 Days of Blessing," by Nancy Campbell.

Well, it's close to dinner time. One look at me and you could tell the day I've had. Nothing exceptionally rotten, but I've passed mirrors instead of using them. Poor Shane. I've got on workout clothes just in case I get time before my energy is depleted. Oops, too late. I'm tired. JK

(Disclaimer: This blog post is extremely honest with a bit of sarcasm added. I love my job. There is no greater calling. It's just tough, and some of us have the bags and muffin tops to prove it. I did read recently that everyone knows that the best part of a muffin is the top. Hmm, not sure about that. Thank you, Lord, for allowing Spankx and all other shape wear to be invented.)

Close to the Devil

Surprising as it may be, my cubs can't seem to get along regularly. The most recent spat took place downstairs(out of my sight, but within earshot) and resulted in E-Dog coming upstairs.

He comes into my room and proceeds to tell me his thoughts on his older sibling.

Then I ask him,"Is she a heathen?"(kind of joking and kind of not)

He said, "No. Maybe worse."

I asked him what was worse than a heathen and quickly wished I hadn't. We went to see Cars 2 and I just wasn't sure if he'd picked up a name or two from it(like jerk). But the question was out of my mouth. It was too late.




"Close to the Devil," E replied matter-of-fact.

3 Weeks

This is Munch (who will have a new nickname at some point) at three weeks.

~Shane's aunt, Denise, was the photographer.

New Chapter

Our lives have been changed forever again.

We welcomed our newest honeypie into the world at the end of May. My labor and delivery went really smoothly (thank You, Lord!) and Munch was born without any complications. Shane lent a helping hand during delivery---that was a first! We had excellent care from my OB and the hospital staff. It was an awesome experience.

Munch is a sweetheart and actually a really easy baby. We had a rough start during the first week (anyone who has nursed may identify), but everyday things get better. Tater, E-Dog, and Dubs are loving their new little brother. They're enjoying getting to know him and learning what taking care of a newborn entails. There is no shortage of arms to hold him! As he stays awake more and more, they talk to him and laugh at his funny little baby faces. It is beautiful to watch. As a mother, I once again am having the priviledge of falling in love. To me there is no other way to describe it...it feels like you fall in love with your children.

So we've entered a new chapter. This pregnancy and birth were so different. To have God put the desire in my heart for a child, get pregnant, miscarry, then the waiting/wondering every month, finding out again that I was pregnant, being scared to lose him throughout the pregnancy, feeling relief and joy at having Munch be born, and now getting to take care of and love him....it is beyond words. (Very aware of the run-on)
~~I'm so thankful for how God has worked and provided. Over and over, He shows me love that no human can. Overwhelmed in a glorious way. My hands and my heart are full.

A Great Thursday

Today was such a good day. Not that everyday isn't good in some way, but today was just especially good. I had help with the laundry (amazing how your husband's hotness factor grows exponentially as they do laundry). Ran errands for about five hours with E-Dog. There were several things I needed to get in order to "stock" our home for when we go to the hospital. I feel so much better now that I've accumulated a decent stash of groceries, etc.
[As far as number four goes, he could come anytime! Last week, I was 50% effaced and tomorrow I will see if anything else has progressed. Munch has definitely dropped. Honestly, I hadn't noticed, but many people had mentioned it. As I looked down to evaluate my hump position while I was cooking dinner tonight, I agreed. He's gonna be movin' on out. Soon.]
Back to today.
Before I left for my errands, the mail came. Normally the mail is rather dull. Today it was fantastic! Shane met the mail carrier at the road and brought me a package. It was addressed to me, but the return was a stranger. Inside was a Baby Bjorn!!! It just rocked my world. For one, I have wanted one(or mine back) this entire pregnancy. Secondly, it is one less thing for us to buy and right now that is a huge relief. Opening that box was also a huge faith builder for me. That may sound dumb, but there are literally countless items that God has provided for Munch. This gift was one of the last things on my mental list and now it is checked off. Such a blessing.
Errands with E were really sweet. I love the one on one time. He is extremely patient. (never once said "When are we leaving?" or "Are you almost done?") It was precious time with my precious boy, who made sure to open my car door at every opportunity. He is a treasure. (Now watch, tomorrow he will be a heathen...oh well, gotta be grateful for the good times.)
Tonight after dinner I had dessert. I've really tried to limit my sweet intake, especially after my last OB appt. Let's just say taking off my shoes didn't help the scale reading. Anyway, I picked up some Milano's (Pepperidge Farm) during my outing and after dinner they were calling my name. So I answered. Mmm, mmm, mmm. I actually was in that section looking for their Oatmeal Raisin cookies, but the didn't have them. Those are one thing I pack and take to the hospital. After delivery, I'm usually starving and those have hit the spot in the past. When I grabbed the Milano's, I had intended for them to be packed. Oh well. Maybe if I don't eat anymore of them, I can tuck them in my bag.
BTW, if you are the one or know the one who sent me the Bjorn please let me know. I am so grateful! Munch and I will surely put it to good, frequent use.

Time Teacher Watch

Found these watches @ Disney's online store. This is a cute option for kids who are well on their way to telling time(but need a little helping hand). Love velcro straps on kid watches. They can put them on and take them off, and that means less for me to do.:)

What Time Is It?

Learning to tell time equals earning a watch in our home.

Each of my kids at some point in toddler-hood decide that they want a watch (usually before Kindergarten). Since so much in our world is digital, kids don't have to learn how to tell time to know what time it is. Once they can read numbers, they can read time.

Back in the day with Tater, I decided to reward her with a watch only after she learned how to tell time. Once she did, I ordered her a princess watch from Disney that had her name on it. She loved it! (and miraculously she still has it all these years later)

E-Dog did the same...wanted a watch, so then was more motivated to learn. He currently has two watches which he occasionally wears at the same time.(Not to be fashionable, mostly because he hoards things. Look for him on A&E.)

Dubs is working on telling time and I think he's just about got it. We used a number chart poster (1-100) and his clock puzzle. It's so exciting and sweet to watch your kids learn anything, but especially something as complicated as telling time.

This clock puzzle was a fantastic investment for us. (I've always liked Melissa and Doug's puzzles, but this one in particular has been very beneficial.) Whether you get it for your family or as a birthday present for another child, it's really time well spent.

Wacky

My blog is wacky. I can arrange my text a certain way, save it, and then it posts looking different than I intended. I don't know what's up. I've had two posts be in a paragraph forms rather than the way they were typed. I go back. Redo the spacing. Nothing works. Dunno. Sorry if my stuff is hard to understand. I try to make it easy to read, but without proper spacing it looks like a wreck. Sorry, folks. Don't know if Blogger is at fault or if it's the blogger. Suggestions welcomed.

His Voice

"Discerning the Voice of God" by Priscilla Shirer is a book the women in our Bible Fellowship (Sunday School class) did together last year. I am reading it (among others) now and just had to share some of what I've highlighted. To be clear, her writing is bold and italicized. God's voice is selective. Most often He chooses to speak to those He knows will listen. This is God's word to you today. He is asking you to focus on listening to Him. Right now, pull on your spiritual earlobes. Take time to listen to God and discipline yourself to discern His voice through prayer, meditation, and worship. This will stretch your capacity to hear what He has to say to you. God always speaks loudly and clearly enough for wide-open ears to hear. "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance." ~Proverbs 1:5 NIV (pg. 32) On the next page, she continues about taking the time to listen... "Let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself." ~Ezekiel 3:10 According to Ecclesiastes 5:2, our "words should be few." This seems to imply we should spend more time listening then talking. Perhaps that's why God gave us two ears, but only one mouth. This doesn't mean that we shouldn't express our needs, requests, and desires to God. We should. But it does mean that we shouldn't allow what we have to say keep us from hearing what He wants to say. A SAINT SPEAKS: "Note well, that we must hear Jesus speak of we expect Him to hear us speak. If we have no ear for Christ, He will have no ear for us." ~CHARLES H. SPURGEON Love her boldness. This book has smacked me with the Truth and helped me to see what was obvious. Priscilla Shirer rocks!

Local Artist

The most recent findings saved in "My Pictures" by a local artist. (He occasionally goes by E-Dog.)

Munchie

I've had so many things given to me for #4, whose current nickname is Munch, and it had really blessed my socks off. The list is too long to list....hmm...anyway, we've really been overwhelmed at how God has provided for us during this time. Everything from bedding, clothes, baby toys (we'd sold or donated all of our little toys and only had things that were choking hazards), and even a changing table has been given or loaned to us.

We are almost ready! I have only a couple of things that I'd like new and will register for them. Other than those few items, I'm hoping to get a swing and some other huge-mom-helpers from consignment sales, garage sales, or off of craigslist.

Silly and rather random side note: After Dubs was too big for my Baby Bjorn (which I loved and wore the junk out of) I let someone use it and now can't remember who it was. Stinks. Those jokers new are $$. How do you forget who you loaned things that are that $$ to? I'm not quite sure, but I've managed to do it. I'm sure it was one of my GA peeps because of the timeline. On a positive note I have not forgotten where any of my other stuff relocated(due to it being donated or sold, I never knew where it all went and therefore couldn't lose it).

Back to our sweet boy.

We've almost decided on a name, sort of. For those of you unfamiliar with our history I'll give you a brief synopsis: we don't agree on names. Strangely I think that with each pregnancy it(Shane) will change and naming will become easier(because Shane will agree with my brilliant name selections:). Not so much. That's OK though, because I know that this sweetie will have a name by the time we leave the hospital.

*Found this picture over a year ago when my heart was longing to be be a mom again. Thought this nursery was so cool!

Beyond Precious Moments

Many years ago Shane began teaching E-Dog to open doors for women...more specifically me. Opening the car door was the main focus, but really we wanted him to learn to open any door for a girl or a lady. I would have to say that we haven't been consistent. Being in a rush or having the kids loaded before the adults has kept it from becoming a habit. We forget or he forgets. It's not a big deal at all, but one of our goals is for our boys to grow into men with chivalry. Last Wednesday night was typical. Rushed to get to Awanas. Got the kids checked in to their classes and then I spent time in the nursery. Afterwards, we came home. (Now keep in mind that last week I was 30 weeks pregnant, so I'm moving a tad slower than usual.) As soon as my ignition is turned off, both back doors flew open and the mass exodus ensued. And then I hear E say, "Wait Mom! I'm gonna get your door for you!" My door opened and I saw my little man standing there and for just a moment I wanted to freeze time. Blame it on the hormones or the stress of Wednesday nights, it hit me like a ton of bricks. He was so adorable standing there smiling... and I was immediately aware that I'd never have that time with him again. That moment would pass, unable to ever be recaptured. So as my eyes filled up with tears (which I'm quite sure was not the reaction he expected) I told him how sweet it was and what it meant to me. Don't we all have experiences that we cherish? I've had countless times that I've been so moved and right then I've asked God to help me treasure the memory. I don't want to forget...ever. There are some moments that are burnt into you (in a good way) and they are beyond precious. Living in the present is so hard sometimes, but it is vitally important. If we are always thinking of the past or the future, we truly miss out on what or who is right in front of us. Last Wed was such a blessing. I'm so thankful for my children and for the time that God has given me with them! Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own troubles. Matthew 6:34

Collections

Tole trays are one of my great loves. A few years ago after going to some antiques shows, I realized that I was drawn to them over and over again.

Initally, I was hoping to hang a grouping of them in my breakfast room once I had aquired a decent amount. That didn't happen.

For one thing, I have a hard time finding trays that I like enough to buy. Either the tray is in poor condition or I don't like the painting. Secondly, they aren't cheap. I didn't know anything about them when I started buying them. Typically I find the ones I like are in the $75-$100+ range.

Currently, I have two metal trays and one wooden tray. Both metal trays have a black background and the wooden one is burgundy. My love of tole isn't limited to trays. During trips to the Scott Antique Market in Georgia, my Mom and I found a round table and a small chest with tole paintings on the lids. Both of those pieces were more affordable and we scooped them up.

For me, one of the great aspects of collecting is that it takes years to accumulate. It's like a treasure hunt. Some days you dig for nothing and other days you hit the jackpot. Over time you get to thoughtfully put together a group of items that have meaning to you. I used to try to hurry up a fill a wall or shelf with whatever I could cheaply accumulate at places like Hobby Lobby or discount stores.(I still like to go there, but I don't feel a compulsion to buy an item just because I like it and it's a good deal.)

With each passing year, I find that I'd rather wait and seek out a piece that really speaks to me than try to just fill my house with meaningless beautiful stuff. Even if it is months between finding a treasure, it is worth the wait.

What do you collect or hope to some day?

Romantic at Heart

Over the years, I've collected magazines and saved pages of rooms and gardens that appeal to me. There is considerable variety in the ones I've held onto (and put into a binder), but I've tried to figure out what the commom thread is that unites them.

The verdict is in: I'm a romantic, with a dash of country--not to be confused with western. I've not forsaken my traditional roots, they are are just slowly eroding to make way for a softer feminine style.

No room in my house looks like either of these, but I just heart them. Don't know that Shane would ever be ok with me going off the deep end into this style (and I don't know if I'd want to), but there is something really beautiful and peaceful about a romanctic look to me. Maybe I'll be able to incorporate tidbits of this type of design into mi casa. Until then, I have my binder.

Double

I have been meaning to tell you about Dubs for a while...I guess really since the beginning of this blog. Double is our youngest child--at least til May. He is in Kindergarten. Shane sold a Harley so that we could have Dubs. Not really. Well, kinda. Shane was very hesitant to "try" for more children, mainly due to financial burdens. He sold his Harley (which paid off our debt) and then agreed to give it a go. So the bike left in July and we were preggo in August. Nice how that worked out!! LOL

I can't tell you exactly why I thought he was different early on, but I felt it. I mentioned Autism to a few friends, but none of them seemed to think he could be autistic. We went through a lot of changes in a short time and I didn't pursue answers. Long story short, Dubs had sensory processing disorder (specifically tactile defensiveness).

After about a year of weekly Occupational Therapy and a daily sensory diet (not food), he made enough progress to be released. {He was three when he started OT. At the time, he wasn't able to put together three word phrases. It only took a couple of months for the language to start developing and we saw huge progress.}

His needs changed our whole family and opened our eyes. I'm so thankful that we were able to get excellent therapy and that Dub's doesn't have such severe overreactions to his environment anymore. We still face challenges associated with sensory issues, but are so grateful for the improvements.

Peanut butter is a staple in this boy's diet. Everyday. He is trying new foods all the time. Even if he puts up a fight, his aversion to new tastes and textures is diminishing. We waited four years for him to try pizza! Honestly, he is probably our healthiest child. Our other two together don't consume the amount of fruit and granola that he does.

At dinner, we have recently started giving him what we all are eating. Sometimes it goes well, and other times it is a small battle. He has recently told us that my chicken casserole was a choking hazard (and that is why he didn't want to try it). Nice.

Double can devour books. Seriously. It is obviously a gift that only God could give him(and for all you smartmouths, duh, I know that every gift comes from Him:). Some people have assumed it's because I home school. It is not. I can't take the credit. W didn't learn to read from E-Dog or Tater. He basically taught himself. (Only in the last several months have I introduced phonics so that I know he is learning to read correctly, and not just memorizing a ton of sight words.)

Shortly after he began therapy (at 3) he started to read. Before that, he had a huge interest in letters and numbers. He would see them everywhere---even on a toilet paper holder in a public restroom(he saw the number 9).

So he is wrapping up Kindergarten, but is reading at around a second to third grade level. Since it is his passion he reads for enjoyment. I've also noticed that he reads to decompress, so books are really a blessing to our little guy. Even during VBS last summer, I would take him out of his class for breaks and he would sit in the hall and read. Then he could re-enter class and have an easier time doing what was required.

What else does Double like? Anything physical! He loves soccer, basketball, freeze tag, wrestling(with his brother and Dad), riding his bike, and going fast(on anything, anywhere).

We love our W. In the almost six years we've had him, we have learned so much from his little life. Love you, Dubs!!

Maybe Not

This weekend I went out in search for a pair of "skinny" maternity jeans. Got to Motherhood (after foolishly going to the mall and realizing they aren't there anymore because they moved to Turkey Creek) and grabbed a few to try.

Now, I have previously tried on skinny jeans in my pre-preggo state and they were um...not flattering. Basically they highlighted everything about my body that I would ordinarily try to disguise. But, for fashions sake I at least attempted them. Didn't purchase.

Fast forward to this past Saturday. Got my self tanner on(not that it makes your shape change, but thought it might help the ol' confidence) and I was ready to see if maybe now (23 weeks pregnant) the skinny jeans would work.

To my utter disappointment they are just as hideous on me as ever. Now mind you I don't think that the majority of people who wear them should either, but I was hoping that maybe, just maybe they would work.((SIGH)) They didn't. Was not close to the above picture.

As I stood there checking my reflection out, I concluded (even though they were by one, get one half off) they shouldn't go home with me. If I didn't look like a lollipop entering the dressing room, I certainly did in that moment. Well, maybe it was more like a pear with two tapered stems supporting it from the bottom. It wasn't right. No skinny maternity jeans for this momma...and you should be thankful.;)

What trends did you want to try only to later decide that you couldn't pull off?

Is a Friend a Friend on FB?

I know that this is silly, but it's just a thought. We have all done it. Accepted or made a friend request to or from someone that isn't really a friend. They aren't rotten. They aren't vile. They aren't your friend either.
Why am I asking such a silly question? Well, I recently discovered that I was unfriended ((GASP)) by someone that I thought was my friend, and not just on FB. It was surprising (we've been friends for a few years). I just saw this person and spoke with her the other day. Nothing was awkward, and certainly nothing happened for me to wonder if we were "friends."
Today I just happened to go to her page and realized we weren't friends anymore.
Now granted, this is not the first or last time I will be a casulty of unfriending. A few dirtbags have dropped me. Kidding.:)
But, I also know that the only people I've dropped are people that I don't desire connection with anymore (and maybe never did, but hit accept without really evaluating). Was just wondering what you think of FB friends that unfriend you that you considered a friend.
Do you ask them about it?
Do you let it go?

Baby Love

Our little bundle is doing great! At my last OB appointment we got to see him again and have a really thorough ultrasound. It is amazing what they can see on those things! They can see if the brain is developing correctly, if the organs are in the right spots, if the blood in the heart is flowing properly, etc. With all of our other children, the technology wasn't as advanced. It is such a blessing to be able to see things early, and if necessary get prepared/educated on whatever you'll be facing.

We also got to see little bits and pieces of him with the 3D (or 4D..not sure) pictures. Those weren't standard six years ago, so it is also new for us to even have a glimpse of him early. And who says that the more you have, the less exciting? It is certainly not the case for us. Everyday we all talk about how we are closer to meeting him. I must tell Shane four or five times a day that I'm excited. This has been such a heart journey for us.

Two things have really surprised me during this time.

1. The joy and anticipation. I was telling Shane today that it has contradicted what I expected to feel. I thought I would be happy, but maybe not like this...our world sends the message that the more you have, the less special they are. It is such a lie!

2. The way that God has provided. Between clothes, toys, and gear, the Lord is pouring out blessings (things that originally we had concern over). How will we afford this and that? What a waste of time to worry. God knows exactly what we need and is faithful to give.

Over the next few months we'll be getting everything together. Less than 18 weeks til we meet our little honey pie!

Must Develop Pictures!

Dubs 2010

Want this one in their bedroom.

Don't see this much now that they are older. :(


Want this forever.

E-Dog

The one down side for me with everything being digital: I no longer develop pictures and haven't really since switching over. I have so many pictures that are on a disc or whatever. Most are just left on the camera forever. Grr. Must get motivated to get some of these jokers printed.

(This is how most sessions end up...one is uncooperative.)