Here is a shot of Aidan last month.
Two years ago... I love my nephew!
Fresh and pink in his proud Daddy's arms.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Happy 2nd Birthday Aidan!
Today is my nephew's second Birthday! It's amazing how fast two years can fly by... and now he is going to have a little sister at the end of May (my fingers are crossed for May 22, but it all depends on the docs schedule). Aidan is a sweet boy, and I really wish we were closer and could spend a lot more time with him. It's also amazing how much he looks like our kids. I think he looks more like Lauralyn's brother than Isaac does, largely because they have similar coloring. Anyhow, HAPPY BIRTHDAY AIDAN!
Here is a shot of Aidan last month.
Two years ago... I love my nephew!
Fresh and pink in his proud Daddy's arms.
Here is a shot of Aidan last month.
Two years ago... I love my nephew!
Fresh and pink in his proud Daddy's arms.
Friday, December 28, 2007
The Hellos & Goodbyes of 2007
I almost went with "The Good, the Bad, and the Ordinary of 2007" but stuck with my original title. We had many wonderful milestones in our family this year. Isaac raced in his first swim meet, went on a missions trip to Jamaica, started pre-school, and learned to write his name. Lauralyn was successfully potty trained, moved out of her crib to a real bed (well sort of... really it's a couch), and went from speaking a few words to being able to have a full conversation with real English words (she could have a conversation before, but only she knew what she was saying). Kristin, of course, accomplished a ton this year... all those big milestones of babyhood: growing a ton, sitting up, crawling, eating real food, cutting 6 teeth, being super cute, etc. I guess for myself starting a home-based wellness business was my primary accomplishment this year, as well as learning how to mother 3 youngster without losing my mind. Noah was promoted at work this year to manager of the creative department. He also learned how to parent 3 youngsters without losing his mind, although the tough part of his job was facing me on the crazy days. Many blessings from the Lord, a year that was fairly turbulence free for our immediate family.
There are two things in particular that have effected us greatly this year. Miraculously, one is a "hello," and sadly, one is a "goodbye." I didn't write about either of these events in my blog this year, even though they have shaped our lives in huge ways.
First, I will start with the miracle. For those of you who have read my blog from the start in Feb. of 2006, you would know about my dear friend Shannon. She was pregnant for the first time in her 8 year marriage (never preventing pregnancy) right at the same time I became pregnant with Kristin, but sadly, she lost that baby. While I won't go into what a difficult year 2006 really was because of this loss, just know that the pain was huge, and my pregnancy made our friendship almost unbearable for both of us. In the fall of 2006 Shannon became pregnant again, but lost the baby a week after the positive test. Another blow to an already difficult year.
Through it all, God was good. Shannon was present for Kristin's birth (a request I had made in hopes for healing). The hope that Kristin would be a light in her life quickly became a reality, and for the first 6 months of Kristin's life, Shannon was a second mother to her. In May, Shannon learned she was pregnant again. We were all full of hope, and fear. I had the honor to go to the first ultra-sound with Shannon on her Birthday because Jason was on a business trip. We saw the tiny evidence of a baby, and learned her due date would be in January. It was an anxious first trimester, but God blessed Shannon with an excellent doctor who was very in tune with Shannon's needs. Today, we wait the arrival of Levi, a baby boy who is truly a miracle child. He will hopefully make his grand entry by mid-January if not sooner. (I am secretly hoping for Lauralyn's Birthday on the 20th, but I don't think Shannon can wait that long).
And now for the difficult goodbye. On the afternoon of August 19, we received a phone call that still gives me chills to think about. Our beloved friends Janet and Jesse learned that their son, Captain Michael Fielder had gone to be with the Lord. Shocking and horrible news. Michael had been finishing his tour of duty in Iraq as an Army veterinarian. He was due to come home in November. While his death was not combat related, it brings little comfort to know he apparently had a hidden heart problem. An avid jogger and health nut, Michael was incredibly fit.
While we had only been around Michael a handful of times, we felt like we knew him well through all the stories Janet and Jesse would share with us. What do you say to to someone who had lost a child? There are no words. Knowing the love I have for my son, I cannot fathom such a loss. All we can do is pray for love, mercy and peace to be showered on Janet and Jesse, and to love them through it all. I hope the kids have been a blessing to them the past several months. The hugs and kisses of a child can soothe a broken heart.
I recently had a dream where I was sitting in a comfortable room with friends. Across from me sat Michael next to Janet. They were laughing together. I have hopes of this dream becoming reality, when this life has passed, and the tears of this world are no more.
There are two things in particular that have effected us greatly this year. Miraculously, one is a "hello," and sadly, one is a "goodbye." I didn't write about either of these events in my blog this year, even though they have shaped our lives in huge ways.
First, I will start with the miracle. For those of you who have read my blog from the start in Feb. of 2006, you would know about my dear friend Shannon. She was pregnant for the first time in her 8 year marriage (never preventing pregnancy) right at the same time I became pregnant with Kristin, but sadly, she lost that baby. While I won't go into what a difficult year 2006 really was because of this loss, just know that the pain was huge, and my pregnancy made our friendship almost unbearable for both of us. In the fall of 2006 Shannon became pregnant again, but lost the baby a week after the positive test. Another blow to an already difficult year.
Through it all, God was good. Shannon was present for Kristin's birth (a request I had made in hopes for healing). The hope that Kristin would be a light in her life quickly became a reality, and for the first 6 months of Kristin's life, Shannon was a second mother to her. In May, Shannon learned she was pregnant again. We were all full of hope, and fear. I had the honor to go to the first ultra-sound with Shannon on her Birthday because Jason was on a business trip. We saw the tiny evidence of a baby, and learned her due date would be in January. It was an anxious first trimester, but God blessed Shannon with an excellent doctor who was very in tune with Shannon's needs. Today, we wait the arrival of Levi, a baby boy who is truly a miracle child. He will hopefully make his grand entry by mid-January if not sooner. (I am secretly hoping for Lauralyn's Birthday on the 20th, but I don't think Shannon can wait that long).
And now for the difficult goodbye. On the afternoon of August 19, we received a phone call that still gives me chills to think about. Our beloved friends Janet and Jesse learned that their son, Captain Michael Fielder had gone to be with the Lord. Shocking and horrible news. Michael had been finishing his tour of duty in Iraq as an Army veterinarian. He was due to come home in November. While his death was not combat related, it brings little comfort to know he apparently had a hidden heart problem. An avid jogger and health nut, Michael was incredibly fit.
While we had only been around Michael a handful of times, we felt like we knew him well through all the stories Janet and Jesse would share with us. What do you say to to someone who had lost a child? There are no words. Knowing the love I have for my son, I cannot fathom such a loss. All we can do is pray for love, mercy and peace to be showered on Janet and Jesse, and to love them through it all. I hope the kids have been a blessing to them the past several months. The hugs and kisses of a child can soothe a broken heart.
I recently had a dream where I was sitting in a comfortable room with friends. Across from me sat Michael next to Janet. They were laughing together. I have hopes of this dream becoming reality, when this life has passed, and the tears of this world are no more.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
A Blogger's Dream Gift
My sweet husband knows how to take a hint when it comes to getting me a gift. For Christmas he got me everything I dropped hints about. From Kristin, a yoga mat with a note saying it would "help get me down on her level." From Lauralyn, a pack of Twizzlers, with a note that had her fabulous quote on it: "I like candy. Yes." From Isaac, a bottle of Cabernet, with note saying, "Sometimes I whine. This will help." And from Noah, a bird feeder, "For the love birds." Actually, I have really loved watching the cardinals and blue jays eating from the feeder this afternoon.
The cherry on top, however, was the first edition (most of 2006) of my blog in print. Not only did he design a beautiful layout and crop and arrange photos, he bound it by hand with twine! It's beautiful, and I can't wait for the next editions...
It is obvious this was a labor of love as many hours where spent "watching Monday night football with Mr. Jesse" in order for the project to be completed. Now I can read back over all that has happened, and it will be a great historical journal for my children to have as well some day.
The cherry on top, however, was the first edition (most of 2006) of my blog in print. Not only did he design a beautiful layout and crop and arrange photos, he bound it by hand with twine! It's beautiful, and I can't wait for the next editions...
It is obvious this was a labor of love as many hours where spent "watching Monday night football with Mr. Jesse" in order for the project to be completed. Now I can read back over all that has happened, and it will be a great historical journal for my children to have as well some day.
We Wish You a Merry Christmas!
What a blessed Christmas we had this year! We had a peaceful Christmas, full of the love of God, friends, and family. The morning was spent opening gifts with Granny and Pop-pop. Noah made us a delicious breakfast of French toast and eggs. Later in the day we went to Nanet and Mr. Jesse's for a feast. Overall, the day was wonderful, and I spent it with the people I love.
Lauralyn got makeup brushes, a new doll stroller, and a horse barn.
Kristin shoes off her tooth brush for her 6 teeth. She also received Mega Blocks and a toy barn.
Isaac got a plane to hang from his ceiling, new shoes, some games, and his favorite was this rifle that I paid a $1 for at the Dollar Tree.
Kristin plays the piano Nanet and Mr. Jesse got her.
Isaac and Elijah received John Deere tools complete with belt and box. They went right to work "fixing" Lauralyn's new princess BIKE courtesy of Nanet and Mr. Jesse. She was not impressed with this gift or her new stroller because neither one was wrapped. (We have learned our lesson. All toys must be wrapped to have any value with an almost 3 year old.) However, now she LOVES both of these gifts, and she is eager to learn how to ride her big girl bike.
Noah and Wes share a special moment?
Matthew makes one adorable Santa.
Lauralyn got makeup brushes, a new doll stroller, and a horse barn.
Kristin shoes off her tooth brush for her 6 teeth. She also received Mega Blocks and a toy barn.
Isaac got a plane to hang from his ceiling, new shoes, some games, and his favorite was this rifle that I paid a $1 for at the Dollar Tree.
Kristin plays the piano Nanet and Mr. Jesse got her.
Isaac and Elijah received John Deere tools complete with belt and box. They went right to work "fixing" Lauralyn's new princess BIKE courtesy of Nanet and Mr. Jesse. She was not impressed with this gift or her new stroller because neither one was wrapped. (We have learned our lesson. All toys must be wrapped to have any value with an almost 3 year old.) However, now she LOVES both of these gifts, and she is eager to learn how to ride her big girl bike.
Noah and Wes share a special moment?
Matthew makes one adorable Santa.
'Twas the Night Before Christmas
Christmas Eve was spent at home with our friends, as we have done traditionally ever since 2003. As we have had more children, we have invited less people simply to reduce the chaos. This year was special because Granny and Pop-pop were here on their way back from Maryland. Maybe next year, they will be next door! Noah's dad had given us a Glog mix, which is a traditional Norwegian drink... it is essentially a warm, spiced red wine. The kids especially loved having Mr. Wes and Miss Allison here to play with (they are way more fun than most "grown-ups" out there). When the guests went home, we ended the evening by watching "It's a Wonderful Life" which I had only ever seen the first half of.
Kristin loves her bling.
Lulu decorates cookies for our guests.
Mr. Wes shows off his new pair of kid shoes.
Santa stopped by for a visit. Apparently he decided to change things up this year by wearing jeans and a yellow shirt... oh, and instead of milk, a Bud Light.
Granny gets some love from a tired Kristin.
Finally, time for bed!
Kristin loves her bling.
Lulu decorates cookies for our guests.
Mr. Wes shows off his new pair of kid shoes.
Santa stopped by for a visit. Apparently he decided to change things up this year by wearing jeans and a yellow shirt... oh, and instead of milk, a Bud Light.
Granny gets some love from a tired Kristin.
Finally, time for bed!
Lookin' Sharp
Isaac had a school performance the week before Christmas in which he was to dress in his "Sunday best." So, I pulled out the sport coat, shirt, and tie that my aunt had handed down to us from my cousin, Reid. We have had it in our closet for 2 years, and Isaac is finally big enough to wear it. Isaac thought he was very sharp, and was quite proud of his new threads. In fact, he was excited to wear them to church the following Sunday.
As far as the performance went... Isaac was the most handsome of the group, but a performer he is not. At least he looked good up there! I was proud of him for participating, though. The Civic Center is a pretty big stage for a 4 year old, and the audience was quite large.
Pre-show photo with Lauralyn... she is wearing her "dancing co-coat."
It was hard taking a photo from the back of the auditorium. But you get the general idea.
As far as the performance went... Isaac was the most handsome of the group, but a performer he is not. At least he looked good up there! I was proud of him for participating, though. The Civic Center is a pretty big stage for a 4 year old, and the audience was quite large.
Pre-show photo with Lauralyn... she is wearing her "dancing co-coat."
It was hard taking a photo from the back of the auditorium. But you get the general idea.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
A Four Year Old's Logic
These kiddos never cease to amaze me. Isaac is so funny, he really does crack me up (living up to his name which means "laughter").
We have copied a Cullens family tradition where each kid gets a balloon at the dollar tree when we celebrate a Birthday. Yesterday, we were going outside to wait for Elijah to come down and play. Before I knew it, Isaac had taken his balloon outside and let it go.
"Isaac!" I exclaimed, "Why did you do that?!"
"I wanted it to go far far in the sky. I wanted God to have it. God likes to play with balloons."
How can a mother argue with that?! I am grateful he already has a heart for giving back to God. :-)
And then today while on our way to a nursing home to sing carols Isaac tells me, "God must have turned on the cold air fan."
"Why is that?" I asked him.
"Because it is really wintery outside."
I have to say I love how he turns seasons into adjectives. I know that "wintry" and "summery" are actual words, but the way he says them is very cute.
We have copied a Cullens family tradition where each kid gets a balloon at the dollar tree when we celebrate a Birthday. Yesterday, we were going outside to wait for Elijah to come down and play. Before I knew it, Isaac had taken his balloon outside and let it go.
"Isaac!" I exclaimed, "Why did you do that?!"
"I wanted it to go far far in the sky. I wanted God to have it. God likes to play with balloons."
How can a mother argue with that?! I am grateful he already has a heart for giving back to God. :-)
And then today while on our way to a nursing home to sing carols Isaac tells me, "God must have turned on the cold air fan."
"Why is that?" I asked him.
"Because it is really wintery outside."
I have to say I love how he turns seasons into adjectives. I know that "wintry" and "summery" are actual words, but the way he says them is very cute.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Kristin Celebrates 1 Year
Sunday, we celebrated Kristin's Birthday with our good friends and as an added bonus, Grandad came to visit! We have gradually reduced Birthday celebrating to a meal and cake. Birthday parties are simply too much work. Maybe we'll let each kid have a big party for their 10th Birthdays.
Anyhow, Kristin loved her cake, and dove in face first. She was so cute!
Here is her first cake. I have really slacked on decorating. Actually, Lauralyn really wanted to help, so I let her do the sprinkles (can't you tell?). I had some marshmallows on hand to make the "K."
Kristin didn't waste any time. Yum yum.
I like Cake!
I think I ate too much.
I am so cute, wink, wink.
Anyhow, Kristin loved her cake, and dove in face first. She was so cute!
Here is her first cake. I have really slacked on decorating. Actually, Lauralyn really wanted to help, so I let her do the sprinkles (can't you tell?). I had some marshmallows on hand to make the "K."
Kristin didn't waste any time. Yum yum.
I like Cake!
I think I ate too much.
I am so cute, wink, wink.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY, Kristin Noel!
It was exactly one year ago this afternoon, that our little Kristin (aka: Smiley or Kristin Yum Yum) was born. She has brighten SO many lives, especially ours, and life would not be nearly as rich without her.
While we officially celebrated Sunday afternoon (see next post), today we bought her balloons and a special new outfit that suits her style (if a one year old has a sense of style). I went with a brown velor pant with jacket... the horse detail on the front is a bonus for Mommy. We also got her new shoes... 3 pairs of fake Robeez from Canada (another great ebay purchase, 3 pairs for the price of one pair of Robeez). The shoes are darling, good quality, and stay on her fat feet, which has been a huge problem with normal shoes. None of LL's old shoes would stay on for longer than a minute.
Also, I have decided that I should be the one to get a gift on my kids' Birthdays since I was the one to painfully deliver them. So, I got a new pink sweater. (Of course, Isaac's Birthday is my Birthday, which means I should get double presents, right?)
Here are 12 things about Kristin at 12 months old:
1. She will smile at anybody, and everybody, much to the delight of many a stranger.
2. Her favorite food is bean soup... that's what we're having tonight.
3. She doesn't mind water being dumped on her head in the bath. Actually, she thinks it's funny.
4. She loves her big brother and sister, except when they are taking a toy away from her.
5. When she is mad and I am holding her, she arches her back and throws herself towards the ground.
6. She has 5 teeth with another almost broken through.
7. I am still squeezing her into the largest size 3 diapers I can find (which are CVS brand) so that I can save $... size 4 have several less diapers in the pack for the same price. This won't last much longer though.
8. She is very self sufficient out of survival. She feeds herself most of her meals... I don't even cut things like waffles or bread b/c she likes to tear off the small pieces herself. She has been able to hold her sippy cup since she was 8 months old.
9. She LOVES to have company over to show off for. When TLC comes over, she loves to show them how she can dance to Daddy's guitar playing.
10. She is only a semi-Momma's girl. She LOVES her Daddy, and is pretty happy with most all people. She never fusses when I leave her in the nursery. Actually, when our TLC babysitters where here Monday, Miss Kati brought her to me b/c Kristin was acting really sleepy towards the end of the evening. Kristin didn't want me, though. She wanted her paci, and to STAY with Miss Kati. How many 12 month olds do that? I am not complaining though... it gave me another half-hour to have my arms free!
11. She may not be ready to walk, but she is ready to accessorize. She loves to play with the beaded necklaces Nanut sent (as did LL at this age). She is very good at putting them on and taking them off. Maybe she will be another girl who loves her bling.
12. Kristin is the cutest most snuggly sweet warm thing in the whole world. One of my favorite things is when I am cuddling her and smothering her with kisses... if I stop, she leans her head into me as if to say, "Give me more love!"
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
So, this is what legs are for?
I didn't think it would happen before her first Birthday, but she made it just barely. Kristin has finally figured out that legs are for standing. She is now able to pull herself up... now I wonder how long it will take her to realize she can be mobile while in the upright position. While Kristin was my earliest crawler, she is the slowest to stand up. Even Lauralyn was standing sooner than her (although for the life of me I can't remember how old she was at this particular milestone since I started blogging after her first Birthday... that is why I am SO glad to be blogging now... I can't rely on my memory whatsoever)!
I do have a photo of Lauralyn standing and holding onto a toy at 10 months old, and I am guessing she could pull herself up around 11 months. Now LL didn't decide to walk until she was 16 months, even though at 13 months she would stand up in the middle of the room without pulling up on something. When she did decide to finally walk, we were at the mountains, and Nanut, Daddy and I got to watch her walk right across the room, as if she said, "Hmm. I think I'll walk." She didn't walk again for a couple of weeks after that, and I think she went from walking to running within a month.
Isaac pulled himself up around 7 or 8 months, and pushed his walking toy around the house for 3 months before trying it on his own. His first steps where in the doctor's office waiting room. We had been waiting over an hour, and then waited so long in the exam room that I walked out of the office before the doctor saw us, and never returned again. I don't believe that particular doctor is practicing in Lexington anymore. But that is a bunny trail. Isaac started walking soon after his first Birthday, and our friends Chad and Katherine where able to witness his first consecutive steps while Noah and I played "get the baby to walk" back and forth on the floor.
Anyhow, this post is totally longer than I thought it would be, but since I didn't blog when Isaac and LL were babies, I felt it was only fair to record what I do remember.
Here are some snaps of Kristin showing off her new trick.
From a young age, Kristin was able to do the "down dog" yoga position. This recently advance to doing the "down dog" with her hands on a slightly raised object.
This past Sunday, she pulled herself upright on a chair at Nanet's house. Noah called me to come see, and I grabbed my camera.
Her motivation? JEALOUSY. Proving herself to be a "daddy's girl" already, she was NOT happy that he was holding baby Matthew. How dare he!
This morning, she realized that standing can be useful. Especially when watching Lauralyn take a bath.
I do have a photo of Lauralyn standing and holding onto a toy at 10 months old, and I am guessing she could pull herself up around 11 months. Now LL didn't decide to walk until she was 16 months, even though at 13 months she would stand up in the middle of the room without pulling up on something. When she did decide to finally walk, we were at the mountains, and Nanut, Daddy and I got to watch her walk right across the room, as if she said, "Hmm. I think I'll walk." She didn't walk again for a couple of weeks after that, and I think she went from walking to running within a month.
Isaac pulled himself up around 7 or 8 months, and pushed his walking toy around the house for 3 months before trying it on his own. His first steps where in the doctor's office waiting room. We had been waiting over an hour, and then waited so long in the exam room that I walked out of the office before the doctor saw us, and never returned again. I don't believe that particular doctor is practicing in Lexington anymore. But that is a bunny trail. Isaac started walking soon after his first Birthday, and our friends Chad and Katherine where able to witness his first consecutive steps while Noah and I played "get the baby to walk" back and forth on the floor.
Anyhow, this post is totally longer than I thought it would be, but since I didn't blog when Isaac and LL were babies, I felt it was only fair to record what I do remember.
Here are some snaps of Kristin showing off her new trick.
From a young age, Kristin was able to do the "down dog" yoga position. This recently advance to doing the "down dog" with her hands on a slightly raised object.
This past Sunday, she pulled herself upright on a chair at Nanet's house. Noah called me to come see, and I grabbed my camera.
Her motivation? JEALOUSY. Proving herself to be a "daddy's girl" already, she was NOT happy that he was holding baby Matthew. How dare he!
This morning, she realized that standing can be useful. Especially when watching Lauralyn take a bath.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
I'm Dreaming of a Warm Christmas
We have had a major heat wave the past 4 days. I can't express how much I love warm days in December! We have had record breaking temperatures, and not by just a degree or two... on Monday it was 78 degrees, breaking the 1972 record of 69 degrees! We have been in the 70's for 4 or 5 days now, and loving the feeling of being warm. Several hours of our time has been spent outside, with no jacket, in short sleeves. We could have worn shorts, too, but it just feels wrong to wear shorts in December. Unfortunately, this weather will be short lived, as we are expecting snow flurries on Sunday. Boo.
Here are some shots of the fun we had on Nanet and Mr. Jesse's "play park" as Isaac calls it. We have spent many hours there the past few days!
On our way to Nanet's... We are so blessed to live on a QUIET street, with friendly neighbors!
Nanet and Mr. Jesse's "play park" built custom by Mr. Jesse, Mr. Jason, and Daddy. It is not used as much as we would like because there is an army of mosquitoes that live here in the warmer months.
This expression cracks me up. What you don't realize is how fast she is really coming down the slide, and how she always lands on her rear in the dirt, hence the face.
Kristin caught in mid-sentence. She is very talkative, and her favorite topic is Daddy: "Da da da da da da DA DA da DA." (With much inflection.)
I took this shot right after he dumped a bunch of leaves on me. Such a boy.
My new favorite photo. I had fun playing with the timer on my camera and setting it in strange places. I love how Kristin is looking right at the camera, but it seems so candid at the same time.
Kristin LOVES to swing, just like her big sister. (Isaac has never been a fan.) She sat in this swing for well over an hour, and would have stayed longer if Lauralyn hadn't insisted on a turn. Check out those teeth!
Here are some shots of the fun we had on Nanet and Mr. Jesse's "play park" as Isaac calls it. We have spent many hours there the past few days!
On our way to Nanet's... We are so blessed to live on a QUIET street, with friendly neighbors!
Nanet and Mr. Jesse's "play park" built custom by Mr. Jesse, Mr. Jason, and Daddy. It is not used as much as we would like because there is an army of mosquitoes that live here in the warmer months.
This expression cracks me up. What you don't realize is how fast she is really coming down the slide, and how she always lands on her rear in the dirt, hence the face.
Kristin caught in mid-sentence. She is very talkative, and her favorite topic is Daddy: "Da da da da da da DA DA da DA." (With much inflection.)
I took this shot right after he dumped a bunch of leaves on me. Such a boy.
My new favorite photo. I had fun playing with the timer on my camera and setting it in strange places. I love how Kristin is looking right at the camera, but it seems so candid at the same time.
Kristin LOVES to swing, just like her big sister. (Isaac has never been a fan.) She sat in this swing for well over an hour, and would have stayed longer if Lauralyn hadn't insisted on a turn. Check out those teeth!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Christmas Time is Here
Time is flying. I've been so busy lately, I can't believe we're almost half-way through December! After this week, things should settle down a bit, and I'll really get to enjoy this season (and Kristin's FIRST Birthday!).
My next blog will be about the crazy heat wave we're having. I LOVE it!
Anyhoo, here are some shots of decorating the tree. I have some expert tree decorators. Of course, the tree was a bit bottom heavy when it came to ornament dispersion. And we have about 5 ornaments in need of glue repairs. It was still the most fun I've ever had decorating our tree.
My next blog will be about the crazy heat wave we're having. I LOVE it!
Anyhoo, here are some shots of decorating the tree. I have some expert tree decorators. Of course, the tree was a bit bottom heavy when it came to ornament dispersion. And we have about 5 ornaments in need of glue repairs. It was still the most fun I've ever had decorating our tree.
Friday, December 7, 2007
A Book Review... and then some
Okay. I admit, I haven't read a book in a LONG time. In fact, I can't remember the last time I read an entire non-fiction book. I did read an easy novel at the beach this year. I do love to read, it is the fact that I have no spare time that is the problem. Plus a small computer addiction. And I have been know to watch a few TV shows in the evening on occasion. Mindless activity is helpful to me, after a day full of activity. But enough excuses.
I read an entire non-fiction book yesterday! It was THAT good! It arrived in the mail, and I stayed up until 1:00 am to finish it... and I took it to the Y this morning to review it again. What is this book that so intrigued me? It is a book every parent should read (unless you would rather not know what is actually being injected into your child): The Vaccine Book by Dr. Robert Sears (son of Dr. William Sears). This book is current as it just came out in July of this year. I cannot stress how impressed I was with the information, the commentary, the completeness of this book is incredible, and to top it off, easy to understand!
Dr. Bob is pro-vaccine, but he is honest about his concerns of the amounts of aluminum in todays vaccines. He lists all the current brands of vaccines, and includes the ingredients, the process of making the vaccines, side effects, etc. He also discusses the diseases the vaccines prevent, taking each vaccine/disease one chapter at a time. His goal is to help parents make the right, educated decision for their children. While he is pro-vaccine, he does acknowledge many parents decide to not vaccinate their children. He is open about the pros and cons of not vaccinating and the pros and cons of vaccinating. Best of all, he respects the decision of the parent, and realizes the government should NOT have the ability to mandate vaccines (except in the case of a very deadly epidemic). For instance: "The state of Maryland sued a couple thousand parents and students who had declined chickenpox and hepatitis B vaccines, literally forcing the parents to decide between having their pre-teens vaccinated for these diseases or face stiff fines," according to Dr. Bob. I thought this was the land of the free! To be forced to inject something into your body (or your child) seems so scary to me.
So I'm sure you're wondering what I want for my kids. Well, if I could, I would probably say "no thank you" to all of the vaccines the first year of my babies' lives. This has not been the case thus far. I had herd mentality with Isaac and Lauralyn (it must be right if everyone else is doing it), and I have gone against my instincts with Kristin and had her vaccinated despite having serious resignations. I didn't feel educated enough to say "no" to vaccines. BUT... she turns one very soon which means another round of vaccines. I still don't know what we will do. I am waiting for Noah to have a chance to read The Vaccine Book, as he needs to be able to decide with me as to which, if any vaccines we will have her get. Right now, I think I would like to skip them all, with the possible exception of Rubella, to protect the unborn babies of mothers who may not have Rubella immunity. Rubella can cause birth defects if a mother catches it during her first or sometimes second trimester. The disease is rare, though. (The irony of this vaccine is it was first created using an aborted baby. Horrible, right?)
Now you might be thinking I am a CRAZY person for wanting to keep my kids mostly un-vaccinated. I understand. But if you read this book, you will probably have a glimpse of why my thought process is going this way. Don't get me wrong... should an epidemic hit, or should we decide to become missionaries to a third world country (not likely) we will vaccinate. I think my biggest issue is vaccinating for diseases that are no longer prevalent, and vaccinating my infant with doses of aluminum that may or may not have long term toxic side effects (there are NO independent studies on this). It doesn't help that Merck knew about the toxic levels of mercury in their vaccines for almost a decade before taking the measures to remove it from the vaccines. The FDA is useless for the most part... very slow to react and unreliable when it comes to regulating. Essentially, it is up to me and Noah to know what is best for our kids.
There are several other issues weighing in on our decision. The use of aborted babies to invent some of the vaccines is pretty disturbing. The use of cow tissues, monkey kidneys, among other animal cells isn't too settling. There is no way to know the long term effects of vaccines. We assume they are totally safe, but the reality is, there is no way to really know. Some of the diseases aren't even an issue anymore in the US (i.e. Polio). Some of these are rarely serious if caught and if they are caught they provide a true immunity from ever catching it again (i.e. chickenpox, measles, mumps). Plus, the fact of the matter is my kids are pretty protected (breast fed, not in daycare, low population area).
Anyhow, I know this is a long winded entry, and really, it is for mainly for myself as I work through the decision making process. I don't look down on people who choose to vaccinate, and I understand now why people choose not to. Unfortunately, in NC I would have to cite religious reasons to be able to have the kids exempt from vaccines for school (should we ever send them to public) and that is not really being truthful (although I guess the abortion issue may count to a degree, but that only counts for certain vaccines, not all). I am hoping the Christian school Isaac attends has a more lenient policy... I plan to talk to them soon to find out what we should expect. Since Isaac is vaccinated so far, it would just mean we would have to follow through with his 5 year old shots.
Well, I hope this has at least motivated you to get solid education on vaccinations... The Vaccine Book is an easy way to do just that. :-)
I read an entire non-fiction book yesterday! It was THAT good! It arrived in the mail, and I stayed up until 1:00 am to finish it... and I took it to the Y this morning to review it again. What is this book that so intrigued me? It is a book every parent should read (unless you would rather not know what is actually being injected into your child): The Vaccine Book by Dr. Robert Sears (son of Dr. William Sears). This book is current as it just came out in July of this year. I cannot stress how impressed I was with the information, the commentary, the completeness of this book is incredible, and to top it off, easy to understand!
Dr. Bob is pro-vaccine, but he is honest about his concerns of the amounts of aluminum in todays vaccines. He lists all the current brands of vaccines, and includes the ingredients, the process of making the vaccines, side effects, etc. He also discusses the diseases the vaccines prevent, taking each vaccine/disease one chapter at a time. His goal is to help parents make the right, educated decision for their children. While he is pro-vaccine, he does acknowledge many parents decide to not vaccinate their children. He is open about the pros and cons of not vaccinating and the pros and cons of vaccinating. Best of all, he respects the decision of the parent, and realizes the government should NOT have the ability to mandate vaccines (except in the case of a very deadly epidemic). For instance: "The state of Maryland sued a couple thousand parents and students who had declined chickenpox and hepatitis B vaccines, literally forcing the parents to decide between having their pre-teens vaccinated for these diseases or face stiff fines," according to Dr. Bob. I thought this was the land of the free! To be forced to inject something into your body (or your child) seems so scary to me.
So I'm sure you're wondering what I want for my kids. Well, if I could, I would probably say "no thank you" to all of the vaccines the first year of my babies' lives. This has not been the case thus far. I had herd mentality with Isaac and Lauralyn (it must be right if everyone else is doing it), and I have gone against my instincts with Kristin and had her vaccinated despite having serious resignations. I didn't feel educated enough to say "no" to vaccines. BUT... she turns one very soon which means another round of vaccines. I still don't know what we will do. I am waiting for Noah to have a chance to read The Vaccine Book, as he needs to be able to decide with me as to which, if any vaccines we will have her get. Right now, I think I would like to skip them all, with the possible exception of Rubella, to protect the unborn babies of mothers who may not have Rubella immunity. Rubella can cause birth defects if a mother catches it during her first or sometimes second trimester. The disease is rare, though. (The irony of this vaccine is it was first created using an aborted baby. Horrible, right?)
Now you might be thinking I am a CRAZY person for wanting to keep my kids mostly un-vaccinated. I understand. But if you read this book, you will probably have a glimpse of why my thought process is going this way. Don't get me wrong... should an epidemic hit, or should we decide to become missionaries to a third world country (not likely) we will vaccinate. I think my biggest issue is vaccinating for diseases that are no longer prevalent, and vaccinating my infant with doses of aluminum that may or may not have long term toxic side effects (there are NO independent studies on this). It doesn't help that Merck knew about the toxic levels of mercury in their vaccines for almost a decade before taking the measures to remove it from the vaccines. The FDA is useless for the most part... very slow to react and unreliable when it comes to regulating. Essentially, it is up to me and Noah to know what is best for our kids.
There are several other issues weighing in on our decision. The use of aborted babies to invent some of the vaccines is pretty disturbing. The use of cow tissues, monkey kidneys, among other animal cells isn't too settling. There is no way to know the long term effects of vaccines. We assume they are totally safe, but the reality is, there is no way to really know. Some of the diseases aren't even an issue anymore in the US (i.e. Polio). Some of these are rarely serious if caught and if they are caught they provide a true immunity from ever catching it again (i.e. chickenpox, measles, mumps). Plus, the fact of the matter is my kids are pretty protected (breast fed, not in daycare, low population area).
Anyhow, I know this is a long winded entry, and really, it is for mainly for myself as I work through the decision making process. I don't look down on people who choose to vaccinate, and I understand now why people choose not to. Unfortunately, in NC I would have to cite religious reasons to be able to have the kids exempt from vaccines for school (should we ever send them to public) and that is not really being truthful (although I guess the abortion issue may count to a degree, but that only counts for certain vaccines, not all). I am hoping the Christian school Isaac attends has a more lenient policy... I plan to talk to them soon to find out what we should expect. Since Isaac is vaccinated so far, it would just mean we would have to follow through with his 5 year old shots.
Well, I hope this has at least motivated you to get solid education on vaccinations... The Vaccine Book is an easy way to do just that. :-)
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Deck the Halls with Loads of Laundry
A song written by me, inspired by a mountain of never-ending laundry.
Deck the halls with loads of laundry,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
Tide, Clorox, Bounce I'm always re-stocking (okay, the generic versions)
Fa la la la la la la la la,
Smelly socks and dirty towels,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
All this laundry makes me scowl,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
How I'd love a new set from GE
Fa la la la la la la la la,
For the bedding soaked with pee pee,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
Sweaty shirts and stained pants too,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
And the onesie soiled with poo.
Fa la la la la la la la la.
I should be thankful for my clothes,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
And glad I don't use a garden hose ,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
For with electricity we are blessed,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
And tonight on clean sheets I'll rest ,
Fa la la la la la la la la!
Deck the halls with loads of laundry,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
Tide, Clorox, Bounce I'm always re-stocking (okay, the generic versions)
Fa la la la la la la la la,
Smelly socks and dirty towels,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
All this laundry makes me scowl,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
How I'd love a new set from GE
Fa la la la la la la la la,
For the bedding soaked with pee pee,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
Sweaty shirts and stained pants too,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
And the onesie soiled with poo.
Fa la la la la la la la la.
I should be thankful for my clothes,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
And glad I don't use a garden hose ,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
For with electricity we are blessed,
Fa la la la la la la la la,
And tonight on clean sheets I'll rest ,
Fa la la la la la la la la!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Glamour Girl
My darling daughter is coming to terms with the fact she is a girl. Although, come January, it appears we will be having a baseball cake for her third Birthday (we'll see if it changes). No longer demanding "I am a boy!" she now will say, "I am a guwl, Mommy, you are a guwl?" The way she says "girl" is really adorable. Lauralyn is a fashion diva in her own right. She loves to pick out her shoes, and generally she prefers her white formal shoes, or her navy and yellow rain boots.
Here are a couple of shots from a couple of weeks ago.
Waiting for Daddy.
She loves running around the van over and over again. Especially if I am trying to take her picture.
Later that day I walked into the kitchen to find this. "I'm having a picnic, Mommy."
P.S. For those of you wondering about Nubby the squirrel, I just spotted him on my dogwood as I wrote this. He is apparently thriving despite his handicap. :-)
Here are a couple of shots from a couple of weeks ago.
Waiting for Daddy.
She loves running around the van over and over again. Especially if I am trying to take her picture.
Later that day I walked into the kitchen to find this. "I'm having a picnic, Mommy."
P.S. For those of you wondering about Nubby the squirrel, I just spotted him on my dogwood as I wrote this. He is apparently thriving despite his handicap. :-)
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Thanksgiving Blessings
I know I'm a bit behind, but I can't leave out Thanksgiving! We had a wonderful time at my mom's house visiting, and eating. We couldn't help but think that maybe this would be our last South Carolina Thanksgiving since Mom and Dave may be officially our next door neighbors in mid-2008 (depending on if their house sells). While we will miss the house in Blythewood, we can't help but be excited at the thought of being able to have longer visits with my grandparents and my brother's family.
Speaking of which, BIG NEWS... I'm going to be an aunt again! My brother asked to say the Thanksgiving blessing at supper and within the prayer we were informed of the newest member to our family due at the beginning of June! We are SO excited and surprised! Hopefully we will find out if it is a niece or nephew soon before Christmas.
Now, are you ready for a kajillion photos?
So, are you saying the meal doesn't cook itself? Next year I have to help. I have dibs on the sweet potatoes, and I'll take over David's favorite, green bean casserole, since he was oh so sad not to have it this year (my favorite, corn pudding, was also deleted from the menu...maybe I'll have to make that too).
A pre-meal wrestling match. This is just a glimpse of the craziness in my life. It's so much fun, though!
A self-portrait. Always the one behind the camera.
The soon to be family of FOUR!
Let the eating begin!
Everyone digs in. Gale is the student boarder who watches the animals when Granny and Pop Pop travel (her family is up north). Note: my corner of the sweet potatoes have no nuts because nuts are yucky.
Another self portrait. I like this shot because Noah seems to be say, "Food, me need food." Grunt.
I love this photo. I think my flash didn't work right, but the effect is neat. Aidan seems to be thinking hard about all this crazy food being shuffled around the table.
Kristin decided to sport the Conan O'brien hair-do for her first Thanksgiving. Isn't she so cute?
After supper, Aidan tries out Isaac's shoes, while his cousins watch.
Isaac is not so sure about sharing his shoes. Actually, he really did love having a BOY around to play with! He has asked me several times this week if he can have a brother. I told him he needed to take that request to God. He quickly prayed, "God, please can I have a brother, then another sister, then another brother, because I want two baby brothers and two baby sisters." I just pray it doesn't happen in ONE pregnancy. ;-)
The now annual Thanksgiving photo of the cousins. Kristin, who is normally very smiley, was really ready for a long nap. (She took one for 4 hours directly after the photo shoot).
My camera didn't focus in time, but I love the moment it captured. In case you haven't kept track, we have really stair-stacked these kids which is so much fun (Lulu born Jan. 20, 2005, Aidan born Dec. 30, 2005, and Kristin born Dec. 19, 2006...just less than a year between each).
Nothing like brotherly love, headlock style.
And, finally, the very popular Tony Stewart table (a present for Aidan), being used by the young artists, while Nana looks on.
We had a great time, and have been blessed with such a great family! Thank you Lord for pouring out your bountiful goodness on us!
Speaking of which, BIG NEWS... I'm going to be an aunt again! My brother asked to say the Thanksgiving blessing at supper and within the prayer we were informed of the newest member to our family due at the beginning of June! We are SO excited and surprised! Hopefully we will find out if it is a niece or nephew soon before Christmas.
Now, are you ready for a kajillion photos?
So, are you saying the meal doesn't cook itself? Next year I have to help. I have dibs on the sweet potatoes, and I'll take over David's favorite, green bean casserole, since he was oh so sad not to have it this year (my favorite, corn pudding, was also deleted from the menu...maybe I'll have to make that too).
A pre-meal wrestling match. This is just a glimpse of the craziness in my life. It's so much fun, though!
A self-portrait. Always the one behind the camera.
The soon to be family of FOUR!
Let the eating begin!
Everyone digs in. Gale is the student boarder who watches the animals when Granny and Pop Pop travel (her family is up north). Note: my corner of the sweet potatoes have no nuts because nuts are yucky.
Another self portrait. I like this shot because Noah seems to be say, "Food, me need food." Grunt.
I love this photo. I think my flash didn't work right, but the effect is neat. Aidan seems to be thinking hard about all this crazy food being shuffled around the table.
Kristin decided to sport the Conan O'brien hair-do for her first Thanksgiving. Isn't she so cute?
After supper, Aidan tries out Isaac's shoes, while his cousins watch.
Isaac is not so sure about sharing his shoes. Actually, he really did love having a BOY around to play with! He has asked me several times this week if he can have a brother. I told him he needed to take that request to God. He quickly prayed, "God, please can I have a brother, then another sister, then another brother, because I want two baby brothers and two baby sisters." I just pray it doesn't happen in ONE pregnancy. ;-)
The now annual Thanksgiving photo of the cousins. Kristin, who is normally very smiley, was really ready for a long nap. (She took one for 4 hours directly after the photo shoot).
My camera didn't focus in time, but I love the moment it captured. In case you haven't kept track, we have really stair-stacked these kids which is so much fun (Lulu born Jan. 20, 2005, Aidan born Dec. 30, 2005, and Kristin born Dec. 19, 2006...just less than a year between each).
Nothing like brotherly love, headlock style.
And, finally, the very popular Tony Stewart table (a present for Aidan), being used by the young artists, while Nana looks on.
We had a great time, and have been blessed with such a great family! Thank you Lord for pouring out your bountiful goodness on us!
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