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?