15 Weeks

Today I'm 15 weeks. I really wanted to get to (and past) this point. It was at my 15 month appointment with Malachi that we found out he'd died. So I was a bit nervous. I even had a nightmare about it, but driving to the base it wasn't even on my mind. Although when I laid down for them to listen I think I held my breath a bit, waiting. And Zach wasn't there by that point so I was doubly nervous! But praise the LORD that we heard our precious baby's heartbeat!!!! I am SO thankful! Not like I really doubted, but I did have a twinge of fear.

I found out my doctor will be moving in June like us. I'm thankful not before as I really don't want to see anybody but him. He is so kind and I've always wondered if he were a Christian. Today he took us in his office and on the wall was a picture with a man in a bed and people standing around him- one of whom was Jesus. Another hanging had a poem of sorts that was about God. I am so blessed to have found a Christian doctor- especially in the military! He had to talk to us about the chances of the baby having down's syndrome and all, and offer the Quad Screen test, which of course we denied. It was kinda funny because he said, "Yeah I thought you would". Not in a bad way, just knowing how we believe and really respecting it.

My next appointment will be around 19 or 20 weeks- for an ultrasound!!!

Last night people at church commented on how I'm starting to get bigger. But I'm in that 'fat' stage where you don't even look pregnant yet! My shirts are getting pretty tight on me and most of my pants don't fit either.

8 Things about Princess on Her Birthday

Princess is born! March 31, 2000 1 year
2 years
3 years
4 years 5 years

6 years7 years8 years

1. She is a huge helper. While she sometimes complains, like any of us do when given a task, she willingly does it and usually does a good job. I am so proud of the big helper she has become (and thankful).





2. She has a love for others. Although we don't always see this side of her, it is there. She often prays for the salvation of some of her friends she knows don't go to church. She will ask when we're going to go around the neighborhood to tell other people about Jesus. She has a true servants heart for the Lord.




3. She loves to read. Sometimes I think she likes to try to compete with me in finishing a book! Of course mine are usually at least 100 pages longer than hers are, but I still usually finish before her;) Just this morning on the way to church she told me that sometimes when she reads a book she gets sad and get tears in her eyes like I do!. When I asked her about this she said a boy died in the current book she's reading and she was crying a bit. I love it- like mother, like daughter!






4. She is a good student. For the most part. I have days and moments when I want that yellow bus to appear at my door (like any other homeschooling parent), but she excels really well. While she may complain "It's hard" she perseveres through it and does exceptionally well. Right now she's learning cursive writing and while she says its hard it looks great!





5. She's such a girly girl. I don't have to worry about her being a tomboy! She loves to play dolls, Barbies and with her stuffed animals. She loves to shop, fix her hair and look pretty. She loves to dress up, have her nails painted and she loves shoes. Typical female genes!




6. She loves her junk food. This is another trait she's inherited from me, although her dad loves his sweets too. Not like junk food is a good thing, I know its not, and just ask my mom- my children barely get any junk! But, just another point that she's my girl;)




7. She is so beautiful. She's got a huge, gorgeous smile. She loves to laugh. She's so tall and pretty. Inside she is a beauty as well. She loves Jesus and that makes her shine!





8. She is an all-around blessing. I am so thankful to the Lord for bringing her into our life 8 years ago. It's hard to believe that that much time has gone by! I remember like it was yesterday the day she was born and the first time I got to lay eyes on her, and later the first time I was able to hold her. She is truly a gift and joy from the Lord.


Happy Birthday Princess! We love you!

Princess' Party

Yesterday was Princess' birthday party. She was so excited to be having her friends come over to celebrate! I didn't plan much to do at all. She invited 5 girls but only 3 showed up (plus the whole family of one of the girls). We had a little scavenger hunt outside that they all enjoyed working together on. Then she opened her gifts and the girls went upstairs to play with the toys for awhile. It was so relaxing! Finally I realized we'd better eat cake before it was time for everybody to go! I had just enough cake. I think Princess was counting on some being left over for tomorrow, her actual birthday, but I doubt that will be the case since there is only one piece left! This picture below is so funny. She was going to give me a flower she picked as I was snapping a picture! It cracks me up!Here she is with her friends. They all seemed to get along well and had a great time!She opened a jewelry making kit we got her. She loves to make jewelry and her and I made some bracelets last night. I even wore mine to church today!

This is her American Girl doll, April, that she got for Christmas. Nanny and Papa got her this swimsuit that she wanted for her doll. She was pretty excited!I thought this was cute...her little brother is sitting next to her rather than one of her friends. We sent the kids outside to eat cake since it was so nice out and I was surprised to see that the girls didn't all congregate together!

Apology

Since I'm still an obedient daughter (to my mother)...no just kidding. I hope I'm still an obedient daughter, but that's not why I'm saying this. It was never my intention to offend anybody. I was simply giving my opinion and my thoughts on how I view this place. I didn't mean to offend those who read my blog, whether you're a stalker or a frequent commenter. So I am sorry to those who were offended by what I wrote. I hope, in turn, to receive an apology as I was quite offended by the anonymous comment.

Por Favor?

I've been eyeing Rosetta Stone for awhile now. At one point we were supposed to get it free through the military but that never happened. And its just not in our budget at this time to be able to purchase it. But it would be awesome to WIN it! Here's the deal:

Rosetta Stone has been the #1 foreign language curriculum among homeschoolers for a while -- next week they are unleashing a brand new curriculum, and you can WIN the *all new* Rosetta Stone Homeschool Version 3… FOR FREE!
This is a $219 program (and believe me it's worth every penny!) and the winner gets to pick from any of these 14 languages: Spanish (Spain or Latin America), English (American or British), Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Irish, Hebrew, or Russian.
This will also include a headset with microphone, and students will participate in lifelike conversations and actually produce language to advance through the program. Rosetta Stone still incorporates listening, reading and writing as well, in addition to speaking. Many homeschoolers requested grammar and vocabulary exercises, and with Rosetta Stone Homeschool Version 3, they're included! For parents, the new Parent Administrative Tools are integrated into the program and allow parents to easily enroll students in any of 12 predetermined lesson plans, monitor student progress, and view and print reports.

To win this most excellent program -- in the language of your choice -- copy these (blue) paragraphs and post it in (or as) your next blog post -- then to enter the contest, go to the original contest page HERE: http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/JenIG/501132/ and leave a comment with the link showing where you blogged about it. And please make sure the link works to get back to the original contest page when you post it. And good luck! The winner will be picked randomly on March 26, and will be notified thru the link they left to their blog pg. And if you have more than one blog, you can post them and enter those separately for more chances to win. Yay for free stuff!

Something HAPPY

My friend had a baby yesterday. It was the first time I've seen a newborn in about a year and a half!!! She has the most precious baby girl! You forget how small babies are, don't you? They're such tiny, sweet things!

I talked to another friend yesterday who had her baby earlier in the month. We were marveling at how babies are such miracles and asked how a person who sees a new baby cannot believe in God. It is her 6th baby!!! I'm so happy for them!

Stephanie had her baby earlier this week. She hasn't posted any pictures or anything yet but I am so happy for her and can't wait to read her homebirth story!

It makes me all the more anxious for my precious baby to be born. I'll be 15 weeks on Sunday. I finally have another doctor appointment Monday. I can't wait to make sure there's a heartbeat. It's not like I doubt, but I do want the reassurance! Babies are so sweet and special, such a wonderful gift from God. I'm so blessed!

Anonymous Comments

Ok, is it just me or does it annoy you other bloggers when people leave comments but not their names??? Remember the one comment I had last year in regards to our adoption. I still am not sure who wrote it. Maybe the same person who wrote THIS comment under my 'That Southern Hospitality Thang' post? I am tempted to make my blog by invitation only so that stalkers cannot read it. I like the fact that people can stumble upon my blog and we become blogging friends. But I don't like the fact that people that KNOW me read my blog, about my daily life and such and don't let me know they read it...until they leave THIS comment. My response will be in black, their comments in blue. I am furious reading it. Maybe its pregnancy hormones getting the best of me...I've noticed that with things lately. But like I just said its also the fact that somebody doesn't have balls enough to sign their name yet they snoop into my life by reading my personal blog. And THAT is irritating!

Okay I have to respond to this mess! You are totally misrepresenting Ocean Springs, your church, and the people who live in Ocean Springs. I have to speak up!

Misrepresenting in whose opinion? Yours? You are obviously a local?

I'm sorry that you have not had doors swing open and people running outside to greet you - but Ocean springs is very hospitable. Since hurricane Katrina, a lot of locals are understandably saddened by the loss of THEIR HOMES. But, if you come up to a door with your hands full, you can expect someone to open it. If you only have one or two items at the grocery store - you can expect someone to let you cut in front. If you break down on the side of the road, someone WILL stop. Probably several people. And that is true hospitality anyway.

Hospitality is many things. Sure, it is the kind gesture of somebody holding open a door for you. But it is also, as stated in the Bible, about opening your home to others- be they friends or enemies. And I have seen many a car on the side of the road stranded with nobody stopped to help them.

Another thing, what in the world do you mean that people are acting "offended" that you are moving? Jamie!! You left the church and community so long ago! Not when you moved out a bit, but when you stopped doing this with and within the church. We said goodbye to you a long time ago in so many ways. At this point, most are apathetic at best.

I still am involved in the church, though not as much. And I never said the 'offended' were from the church! It's nice to know my church family is not concerned for me anymore. Thanks for pointing that out. Really makes me feel good. And you wonder why I am ready to go???

What in the world is this about Ocean Springs only being upper class??! Talk to your bag boy, your mailman, you electric man - they will tell you they are middle income at best. Ocean Springs has lower, middle, and upper class citizens. If you are unable to see that, maybe you are as unaccepting as you feel that others might be...

Of course O.S. has all classes- it wouldn't function right as a society if not. But what you see most of is the upper class strutting around like they're all that. This is the view of an 'outsider'. I've had several other 'outsiders' that have moved to this area say the same thing, some of who you, Anon, probably know.

How can you say that no one has reached out to you?? When you lost your sweet baby women rallied to your side. We called you, we prayed for you, we cooked complete meals and carried them to you. I know women who still have you on their prayer lists. Has it meant so little or been so long ago that you have forgotten the comfort we bestowed upon you?

Of course people reached out to me when I lost Malachi. And I am so grateful. It meant so much to me. And on his birthday it really touched me to read the cards and such from those wonderful women. It still touches my heart to think of the kindness. But it hasn't reached beyond that? Sure, we should help people in their grief! But what about reaching out to those same people in normal everyday circumstances? It shouldn't only be when a tragedy occurs that we reach out to others.

What do you MEAN that no one has invited you over? What do you mean that you don't know why?! Several times, in my presence - I watched your kids jump from piece of furniture to piece of furniture with you in the room. These kids did not earn so much as a scowl from you. Speaking for myself only, I do not invite you to gatherings because I want to keep my furniture! Your kids have some poor behavior!

Sure I've been to houses for playdates, as I stated in my earlier post. My children aren't perfect by any means, but I would never allow them to hop from one piece of furniture to another. My children do not have poor behavior and that is quite an insult to me. You obviously haven't been around them often. Like I said, they aren't perfect and I know I complain about them sometimes but in comparison to other children mine are not as bad as you say.

Jamie, I am really not trying to hurt your feelings - but to help you to see the other side of the coin. You have painted a really grim picture of a beautiful town with lovely people. I think you are being so unfair!!

Just because you may see the town as beautiful doesn't mean all do. I do like the quaintness of the downtown- it is beautiful. But beyond that it's not my home and I'm thankful for that. As I was talking to another military wife last night (who I don't think reads my blog so has no idea about any of my posts, but I do think she's a good friend of yours) when we move somewhere we know it is temporary and we make the most of it. Being that it is the end of the road for us, well I am thankful for that. Maybe you need to take off your rose-colored glasses a bit? Or maybe try to see the picture from an 'outsiders' view? Because there are many who feel like I do.

Good luck with your move, your adoption, and your current pregnancy. I hope that you are happy where you are going and that they fill all the needs we were unable to fill. I will keep you in my prayers. God bless!

My normal blog readers...I am sorry if maybe my response wasn't so kind. I know I could have made it much worse than I did. I need to just let this roll off of my back, but sometimes that is difficult to do! My first thought was, "How dare this person write this ANONYMOUS comment on my blog???" Then I began thinking, "See if I ever go back to church, if that's really how they feel about my family!" But I don't think Zach will allow me to skip out on church for 3 months;) And I do have responsibilities there. So I'll just continue on living my life here while looking ahead to a future in Iowa. It can't come fast enough!

Craziness

• Don't ask me why that video posted a million times! Stupid thing!
• I didn't go to bed until 11:30 because I was up finishing a good book! Now its on to more Nicholas Sparks!
• Then when I woke up in the middle of the night I couldn't fall back to sleep. I hate that.
• I am shocked that Chikezie was kicked off of American Idol last night! I was so sad and I had tears in my eyes! I always enjoyed his singing, voice and his great attitude. And I loved to see the support of his family every week.
• My Cuddly Boy just woke up- its almost 9 am! So off to give him some breakfast.

Why Not Minot!?!?

With my recent posts and thoughts on hospitality I've been reflecting a bit on other places we've lived. One of those was Minot AFB in North Dakota. I remember the day Zach called me from Texas to say that was where we were going. I burst into tears! NORTH DAKOTA???? WHO in their right mind moves to North Dakota??? He thought I'd like it since it was 'close' to home (14 hours away). Can you say prairie? I couldn't believe my eyes. Where were the trees??? But then again, "Only the Best come North". Haha (their 'motto' or whatever at the front gate).

Zach was in security forces at this time. His first job consisted of going out to the missile field for about 5 days and he'd get about 3 days off (if I remember right). It was horrible. Here I was all alone and then newly pregnant in this 'foreign land'! Our first Christmas I went out to the missile field to visit him! He wasn't even home! Talk about depressing! He eventually was able to get a different SP job where he was home every day. He worked like 14 hour shifts watching a fence and sitting in a small structure (probably not much bigger than an outhouse). Imagine staying awake all night staring at a fence! With no bathroom! He would use empty Gatorade bottles to relieve himself and one time he was so tired he drank out of the wrong bottle. Sick!

We lived in a four-plex. It wasn't bad. We could hear our neighbors as we were in the middle, but we had 3 bedrooms and a really nice kitchen! The nice thing was that we really got to know our neighbors! One of my best friends to this day, Diana, lived across the street. We'd get together and watch Days of our Lives. We'd take our puppies for walks and then discovered we were pregnant together! It was awesome! Another friend, Sheila, had a baby shortly after us and we became fast friends. I remember going to her house often in the evenings when Zach was working to let our babies 'play' (she also lived across the street and by this time Diana had moved). We had other neighbors we didn't know as well but who were real helpful when we needed it (maybe with borrowing a weed wacker or something). And they were super friendly. The family on the end of our four-plex was a family with 3 children. The dad had two jobs and Jen always seemed frazzled. We tried to be there for them when we could, even though we weren't experienced with having children!

Then you have our best friends, the Wagner's. They lived down the street from us. But we would get together whenever the guys' schedule worked out. And my friend Kim and her family. It seemed we were always getting together with people! Before we knew it we ALL were friends and having barbecues, going to birthday parties, having playdates, etc. It was awesome!

This doesn't even touch our friends from church. We were one of the youngest couples, if not the youngest, in our church. We joined a Bible study with the Pastor and another couple. It was wonderful to get to know this older couple. I remember many times going out to lunch after church with various families. Although they were older than us it was like they took us under their wings. They loved us! And we loved them!

Did I like living in Minot? Not at all, at least when I was there! Although that was the one place I cried the hardest when we left because I remember leaving behind my best friend, Jamie. But now that I'm gone I see the benefits of the place. Friendly people. Friends. Fellowship. Yes, even farms. I will never forget they had this program (I think on the noon news) called 'Focus on the Farm'. Cracks me up still! Kim, if you read this, do they still have that??? Kim is still there after HOW many years now??? I don't miss the long, freezing winters (we had to PLUG our cars in at night). I don't miss that there wasn't a lot to do outdoors. But I miss the people. Do I want to go back? No. But I wish we could find another place with the same benefits- wonderful, friendly friends that we had great fellowship with. I miss my friends from Minot terribly. Hopefully Iowa will have the same results!

Oh yeah, and I guess our first home is now torn down as they're building new housing there. It's kinda sad to think about it. What if we ever took a trip back there...we couldn't show Princess and Little Man their first home!

For all of you Favre Fans

This girl went to my high school and this is her tribute song to Brett Favre. Thought you Packer fans would get a kick out of it.

Tuesday

I want some sleep. For some reason when I woke up last night at 2 to use the restroom I couldn't fall back to sleep. I finally managed to sometime after 4 and then Zach's alarm went off. I had to get up and ready 'early' as I had a dentist appointment.

I have been dealing with one little boy's sassy behavior lately. For awhile there it was a certain girl now it seems to have gotten to this boy. I guess at least it doesn't happen at the same time but I am tired of dealing with this junk! Here I've thought he's been so well-behaved lately and all of a sudden he's back to throwing fits and whining.

I am craving lettuce. With a Mexican flare. I want some sort of a taco salad. I asked Zach to pick up lettuce on the way home but he's not wanting to stop. I sure hope he does! When I have a craving I feel like I need it now!

I am trying to plan a birthday party for Princess. I need to be as frugal as possible as we just don't have extra money right now to splurge. She keeps talking of pinatas, tea parties and things of that nature but that won't happen. I'm thinking they can jump on the trampoline, we'll have a little scavenger hunt and I'm not sure what else. There will only be about 4 girls coming. I also get so tired out lately so I don't want to have something that will really drain me! I can't believe my 'baby' is going to be 8!

Silly putty has become a treasure in this house. We had some and Cuddly Boy seemed to have claimed it. He didn't want to share with anybody. Now the other two have some and they're all in putty paradise! Who would think something so cheap and simple could be so exciting? Right now CB has it on his arm as a watch! He keeps asking me what time it is! And its this very same thing that Little Man is pouting about right now- I took his away and hid it until his behavior changes and he starts to obey.

Thoughts

I've been thinking a lot on that whole hospitality thing. I realize most of what I wrote pertains not just to the south but it is universal. But you often hear of the south being inviting, with friendly smiling people who open doors and say hello as you walk down the street. I have not seen that while living down here. It's a totally different world than where I come from. I was talking with one of my friends about it today. She is originally from Alaska, but being a military wife has traveled around as well. She agrees that she has not seen hospitality down here like you hear about. And she is in the same boat as I am- really ready and excited to move this summer.

In conversation with another friend it was brought up about a mutual woman we know. This woman has a wealth of friends here but she also has more income than what some have. I love this woman- she is open and friendly to whoever regardless of race, class or whatever and has been so dear to me. But I have noted that because she is more of the 'upper class' as the town is that maybe she is more welcomed. Even my Alaska native friend noticed this with herself. While she's not necessarily 'rich' or 'poor' she lives in a nicer neighborhood and drives a nicer vehicle. Once people discovered where she lived she was 'accepted' (these were her words). I also think part of it is the area we live in. Ocean Springs (the town we lived in until we moved to military housing) is a more upper class society. But then you have Biloxi with its casinos and that is a whole different spectrum that you get of 'southern living' as well.

On to another thought. Alaska friend asked me a few weeks ago if I've noticed people treating me differently since they found out I'm moving. At that time I answered no. But I did tell her that I felt like I was pulling away from things and people a bit, though not intentionally. I think God was really preparing me to move and was slowly drawing us away from certain things to make the move easier, even before we knew we were moving.

But now I notice that I am being treated differently. I feel like people get offended that I'm excited about moving. Sure, I will miss the friends I've made, but at the same time this will by far be our easiest move. I have friends here but they're not like the close relationships I've had in NC and ND. Maybe its best that hospitality wasn't granted to our family!

Oh, another thing on hospitality that was in the comments... I shouldn't have said about inviting a family for dinner! It doesn't matter if you invite a family to dinner, dessert, games, snacks, whatever. The thought is that you are reaching out and being hospitable. Sure, some people can't cook or don't like to cook (I've come a long way in that department). Some people may have a larger family and can't fathom the thought of adding X amount of people to the menu, but they would love to invite a family to dessert or just for some fun fellowship. It doesn't have to be dinner. It's the thought of being hospitable and fellowshipping together as families, not about feeding a belly! After talking with Zach about this whole subject we figured we can only count 5 or 6 families from here who have invited our family to their home- in a total of 4 years. So very sad. Can you blame us for wanting to leave???

About Easter. I must be a bad mom. I didn't snap any pictures of the kiddos. I think the two oldest ones wore the same thing this year as last. We just didn't have money to go and buy a cute new dress or outfit. I was wearing some clothes that were quite tight on me with my expanding figure, but it was the only 'spring' type of shirt I could find! I craved a ham and mashed potatoes but instead made a pasta dish. At least it turned out well- and it was so healthy with zucchini, asparagus and red peppers. Yum! I hope there are some for leftovers!

Indeed

Happy Resurrection Day!

My Lists

Just thought I'd inform you that I added some to my reading and thankful lists. You can check them out on my sidebar.

Yes, I am a Pregnant Blonde

But, I am not this one:

THE PREGNANT BLONDE
The other day my neighbor, who is blonde, came running up to me in the driveway jumping for joy! I didn't know why she was jumping so excitedly but I thought, 'what the heck?', and I starting jumping up and down along with her.

She said, 'I have some really great news!'

I said, 'Great. Tell me why you're so happy.'

She stopped jumping and, breathing heavily from all the jumping up and down, told me that she was pregnant! I knew she'd been trying for a while so I told her, 'That's great! I couldn't be happier for you!' Then she said, 'There's more!'

I asked, 'What do you mean 'more'?'

She said, 'Well, we are not having just one baby. We are going to have TWINS!'

Amazed at how she could know so soon after getting pregnant, I asked her how she knew. She said.... (You're going to love this!)............................


'Well, that was the easy part. I went to Wal-Mart and they actually had a home pregnancy kit in a TWIN-pack. Both tests came out positive!'

Family Fishing

Yesterday was a gorgeous day and Zach got the idea to take the kiddos fishing. I don't have a license but I went along and supervised, enjoyed the sunshine and read. A good time was had by all, but Cuddly Boy sure couldn't sit still for long! Nobody got a bite, but we sure had fun.

That Southern Hospitality Thang

There's been a recent thread on one of my yahoo groups about southern hospitality and large families, both subjects together yet separate (if that makes sense). First somebody commented on how their family had I think 5 children and they were never invited to people's homes. We only have 3 children and sometimes I feel like people don't invite us to their homes because of this fact. And I admit although I sometimes complain about my children's behavior they are really great kids, especially compared to some! What will happen when we have 5 children! We'll really not be invited anywhere (I don't believe this though because we'll no longer live here).



But the whole thread got me to thinking. We've lived here in Mississippi now for almost 4 years. It will be 4 years and 2 days when we roll on out of here. And I can count on one hand the number of families that have invited our family to their home. I'm not talking about playdates with Mom and kids- I'm talking about the whole family for dinner. We are usually quite hospitable and love to invite families over on the weekend, although I admit we haven't been doing it as often for some time now. Last year was a mess with losing Malachi and the past couple of months I've been so sick I couldn't even feed my own family much less invite one over! But we have invited way more families to our home for dinner than what we've been invited to. I'm not trying to brag and say we're better than them or anything like that. It is just frustrating! I like when you get a family and you each reciprocate. That is what it was like with our friends the Blackmon's (until they moved away). We'd take turns. We had another family that lived here and we'd get together with them often because we loved them! Yet they never had as at their house! Now I love to have people over, I really do! But sometimes its nice when the favor is returned, ya know?



In North Carolina we had CARE groups at our church. We were always getting together with families for dinner, even outside of CARE group. And it was wonderful! So much fellowship! We have been at our current church for at least two years. Besides get-togethers for Sunday School and birthday parties and such we haven't been invited to anybody's house as a family for dinner! It is so sad how we as Christians have lost our art for hospitality.



Sometimes I think people think they need to have a big, fancy home and nice furniture and then they feel they could have people over. When we were first married I'd clean the entire house before our friends would come over! It isn't necessary. Nobody sees the dust hiding on the shelves and we don't need a big candlelit dinner with fancy china to be fed at your home. I'd be scared eating off of your fancy china! I will eat off of a paper plate and be happy! And it makes the clean-up easier too.



I'm sure it isn't just a Southern thing, but you know you always hear how the people in the south are so friendly and hospitable. I haven't seen that at all. Even in North Carolina. We had our church family that was wonderful but most of us were 'transplants'! The actual people from that area (most of them) weren't friendly at all! I have found the same to be true here. People only look out for themselves and could care less about you. You're just an outsider, an intruder and you really don't belong or fit in is what I think they think about us. I miss the days of living at home in Michigan when you'd walk down the street and people would smile at you and say hi, or in the case where we were from 'hey'. I miss the friendliness of cashiers in the stores, although I realize that more and more people everywhere are becoming so self-centered and not quite as friendly as they were even 10 years ago when I still lived in the U.P.



I can't wait to move to the Midwest, closer to my roots. I really think we'll feel more at home there than we do down here. I also think we'll have more chances to fellowship, both to offer hospitality and to be offered it. I know we haven't moved there yet or met people (in person) but I really feel that things there will be entirely different from here.

Romans 12:13

Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

1 Timothy 5:9,10

No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.

1 Peter 4:9
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

Romans 16:23

Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings.

Just in case

My mom said that she couldn't see indoor pictures of the house I really like so just in case here's the link where you can see more pictures. It is really priced great. There are others houses for the same price and they're not as nice as this one by a long shot (in my opinion).

Here's one that's the same price. We'd really have our work cut out for us tearing down that wallpaper!

Here's the other for the same price. While it's not bad I'm not keen on the bathrooms or wood paneling in one of the rooms. And the outside makes me think of the house on The Brady Bunch.

Recipes to Share

OK, now that I'm feeling a bit better I've been able to stomach being in the kitchen more. Thankfully! My poor husband and children lived off of Cream of Wheat, frozen pizza and boxed meals for long enough. So, in light of my return to the kitchen I have some new recipes I've found that I want to share.

The first one can be found at Kraft Food & Family. I love getting their 'cookbook' magazine! It always has new recipes to try. Today for lunch I made myself this wonderful salad. Oh, it was delicious! I think there's only a bit left over for Zach to try. He's not a big salad person, but being that its of a Mexican nature I think he'll like it.

***

Last night for dinner I made these Sloppy Joe Squares. They were so good we ate the whole pan! Princess and Little Man had seconds and Cuddly Boy (who never eats good) ate his right up! These will definitely get made again! Here's the recipe:

1 lb ground beef

1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

1 cup water

1 (1.5 oz) package sloppy joe mix

1 tsp. dried onion flakes

2 (8 0z) cans refrigerated crescent rolls

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (I always add extra cheese)

1 tbsp. milk

1 tbsp. sesame seeds (optional)

Preheat oven to 425. Brown beef; drain and return to skillet. Stir in tomato sauce and next 3 ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Unroll 1 can crescent rolls into 13x9 in pan. Press seams together to seal. Spread beef mixture over dough and sprinkle with cheese. Unroll remaining can over cheese, pinching seams together. Brush dough with milk and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

****

As I type this out I am enjoying Indoor S'mores. I know I've made them before with a different recipe and I thought I'd try this one in Princess' cookbook. I must admit they're pretty good!

12 graham cracker squares

3 cups chocolate chips

2 tbsp peanut butter

3 cups mini marshmallows

Put graham crackers in plastic bag. Seal and squeeze until crackers are broken into small pieces. Put chocolate chips and peanut butter in saucepan (I used the microwave), until chips are melted. Stir in graham cracker pieces and marshmallows. Spread mixture into rectangular pan. Put in refrigerator for about 1 hour or until firm. Then enjoy!

****

For dinner I'm making a chicken dish and I'm trying a new potato recipe. If I like how the potatoes turn out I will share that! It's so nice to be able to enjoy food again (although it doesn't always agree with me still at least I'm not throwing it up).

****

This weekend I made homemade lemonade. It was good. Here are my juiced up lemons and here's me enjoying a nice cold glass of fresh lemonade!

The Flipside

Ok so I showed you the houses that would better accommodate our family, but are a bit pricier. Here are some that are more affordable but rather smaller or just plain yuck.

Some that were sent to us before are pending sale so I can't find info on them. I'm telling you there is really nothing but junk for $130K and under. It is frustrating!

Here's the first one. I love the kitchen (not). And it is more than the $130! UGH!

This is one we liked. Obviously it says its pending. I think it was by RR tracks anyway.

This one looks nice and dark, not to mention tiny. Plus I think its a townhouse.

Then there's this one. Again, check out the kitchen.

Ok, I admit this one is nice. But who knows what it looks like inside!?!

I don't like this at all. Sorry!

Then we have this home which is just plain tiny.

Again the kitchen here is yuck and the bedrooms look like they're so small.

The last one.

When we move I'll be 6 months pregnant! With three children. The last thing I want to do when I move into a house is a ton of renovations, painting, etc. And I don't feel comfortable buying a house I won't be comfortable in, ya know? It is such a frustrating process, I just want to scream!

Pictures

My Mom made this apron for me. Isn't it beautiful? Thanks Mom! It's a bit big, but I love it!

I found it!

This is the first house I've looked at that I absolutely fell in love with. I want it, I want it, I want it! We're going to Ames at the end of April to house hunt. I can't wait, although I'm dreading the long drive and the thought of spending money!

Birthing a Robot

I was at some house and went to use the restroom. I started to bleed and called out for help. Next thing I know a small thing came out of me. When I took a hold of it it grew to about 6 or 7 inches and turned into a robot! How weird is that! I was freaked out! My mom and I were getting ready to go to a service our church was having in a neighboring town and I thought I'd just talk to the doctor that goes to our church. Somehow we couldn't find the church. At this point there were other people with us (and people kept turning into different people I know). We drove down these stairs and instead of turning like the sign instructed went straight. The car got stuck. There was something there holding us in place. We went into the big building on the left. It was a commissary and I saw my old neighbors from North Carolina! I wasn't going to say hi because I was still upset about the robot and wanted to see a doctor! We all went outside and a cop dressed in workout clothes put a ticket on the windshield. Erika was really upset because I guess it was her car now? So she ran after the cop asking how much it was. I think he had said $160,000! She was so upset but went to pay it so we could get to church. Turned out it was only like $69. Then I must have woke up because I never did make it to the church or find out about this robot I birthed. Strange, strange, strange!

Back On

The cable guy came.

He's Fine

CB is fine...I guess its a sprained ankle. He wouldn't walk on it until they put on an ace bandage. Now he thinks he's all that.

Oh, and our AC doesn't work downstairs...I had the windows open all day but now I'm overheating with them closed! What's next????

Still Cursing the Cable Co.

Soooo....listen to this. I spent 2 hours total this weekend on the phone with the cable people! 2 stinkin' hours! First I'm told one thing. Then another. I don't know what to believe anymore- well I don't believe anything they're saying! Somebody sometime today from their lousy company CANCELLED our service call for today. But I didn't know this until about 6 pm! So here we sat ALL day (after sitting around all day yesterday) waiting, waiting, waiting. I am about to switch internet companies but I have no idea who else I could go with. I am FED up with these people. I am one very unhappy customer and I will be calling with a complaint on Monday.

Please pray for Cuddly Boy. Zach's at the ER with him. He and his brother were on the trampoline earlier and Little Man got mad at CB and jumped on his foot. I am praying, praying, praying that nothing is broken this time. Zach's waiting on the results of the X-ray. This boy is apparently the one who will end up going to the ER repeatedly. Man, 2 times in less than a year!!! I feel bad for my boy and I really hope its just a sprain or something. I'll try to update when I can but internet is limited.

So as you can see my weekend royally stinks big time. The weather is wonderful but the weekend is just shot and it makes me so mad. I'm finally feeling better most of the time and I want to do stuff- not be confined! So my attitude isn't the greatest right now! Hopefully Sunday will prove to be better.

Productivity on the School Front

Today was quite the productive school day! We started out by saying the Pledge of Allegiance, then we sang some worship songs, read our Bible and prayed. I love singing with my children! I started it so it would help them to sing in church but I really enjoy worshipping the Lord with them in the morning! Little Man then begged to do his math! He wanted to do 3 pages, but only ended up doing 2. When I asked him this evening what his favorite part of today was he said math! I couldn't believe it was more fun than playing on the trampoline or playing kickball! We managed to get our other schooling done throughout the day too. It was a much improved day with Cuddly Boy. I dug in our school stash and found little things to occupy him at the table! He really enjoyed himself with a view finder, chalk and chalkboard, matching game, lacing shapes and coloring.

I have a placemat that's a U.S. map. I took it out because I thought I'd work with the boys on states while Princess was working on her English. For some reason Little Man always knows where Texas is! I think he knew where Michigan was too. In addition I taught them Florida, Mississippi, Iowa, Michigan and California. Cuddly Boy (who is only three and a half) was able to show Daddy about 4 states! It was awesome! So I think I'm going to work on all the children every day with that!

Princess really has a difficult time using her imagination, at least in school. She is in the planning stage of writing a story and had to come up with 3 characters. First she picked a monster, then a girl (who she named Else, but reminds me too much of Elsie Dinsmore) and a pig (who she wanted to name Piglet). She really could not come up with names! Sh wanted to pick the monster to write about but it seems like in her spare time recently she wrote of a monster so I told her to pick a different character and she chose the pig. Why is she so fascinated with monsters (movies she watches). I hate it!!!

I can see improvement in Little Man's reading. Though he still sounds out many words there are others he really is remembering. It is exciting to see and I look forward to the day when it all just clicks!

They were thrilled to go to the library today! I was a bit saddened that Princess didn't choose any of the younger aged short books like normal, but she chose chapter books. It's great, but it just shows how much she is growing up!

Oh and just to rub it in...tomorrow is supposed to get between 75 and 80 degrees! Time to shave the legs and bring out the shorts!

Cursed Cable Company!

Oh boy am I livid! Remember I said we were going to get our TV turned off? Well, we also use the cable company's internet service and I made it very clear that the internet was to stay on. Then they don't actually schedule a 'time' to come out on a given day so you're just supposed to sit around and wait. I saw the cable guy drive by but he didn't even stop! It was lunchtime and we were so out of food so I thought it wouldn't hurt to pick something up. Then I decided to hop by the library (we hadn't been there in 3 months). So when I arrived at home and turned on the TV the cable was out, but so was the internet! There wasn't even a note on the door indicating he came! Why can't they call before they come? I guess I should have stayed home and waited but then he probably wouldn't have shown up until 5!

So, I called the company and told them my internet was also disconnected. She told me she'd have somebody come and reconnect it today. Two hours later I called again and they said the same thing. Finally its after 6 pm and we really need to grocery shop! I decided to just send Zach (never know how I might handle smells and sights of foods). Then I called the company again. I was on the phone for an hour with about 4 different people! First I find out that the women I talked to earlier in the day lied- they never intended to have somebody come out today. Then I found out they scheduled it for Monday! So here I sat on a beautiful Friday night waiting for the tech. to show up for no reason. Boy, was I MAD! After much string pulling SUPPOSEDLY a guy is going to come out tomorrow to fix it. If not I will be calling back and complaining some more. Oh, and this woman I talked to (who I thought was informative) seemed like maybe she would get somebody to come out. Well, then she comes back on the line and says it shows I am online and she's transferring me to tech. services!!!! ANOTHER LIE!!! I am very unhappy with these people. They could at least be honest in their dealings with their customers!

When I got off the phone I was about to cry. You just don't mess with a pregnant woman! Oh I know its so stupid- over internet!?!? But when we now have no cable TV either I feel like I'm living in the Stone Age! Oh and I shouldn't even be online right now. I feel bad that I'm connecting wireless from somebody else but I was desperate! Thanks for listening to me rant!

Where has the week gone?

These are the flowers we had placed in church on Sunday in honor of Malachi. Beautiful, aren't they? They smell so good! I hate that flowers die so quickly! That's one reason I never buy them. Saturday we went to eat at Olive Garden. Oh it was delicious. We hadn't been there in forever. I so want to go back...today!

I can't believe I barely posted all week! Monday I woke up feeling so much more energetic! I wanted to clean! But I didn't. Instead I committed myself to doing school! That's more important than a clean house, right? Zach was off Monday and Tuesday because he tested for Master Sergeant on Wednesday. He thinks he did alright, so I am really praying he makes it! We won't find out until June and if he made it he wouldn't sew it on until the summer of 2009 but its a good pay increase! So far he's made rank the first time testing, if not earlier so I'm counting on it again. He works so hard and puts up with a lot so I'm believing God will bless him, but if not its ok- he'll just test again next year!

Tuesday and Wednesday I cleaned, cleaned, cleaned. I went through clothes and have 3 huge garbage bags full of our clothes to get rid of. I cleaned the refrigerator. I cleaned. I was so tired of a nasty house! I also did school. It is nice to be getting back into school. We've been doing about 2 lessons a day because I don't want to be at it until July! And they really don't seem to mind working so we keep at it!

Today we dove right into our schoolwork. Little Man amazes me by how fast he picks up on math! Today he learned skip counting, and while not hard at all I wasn't sure he'd get it. Boy, he did awesome! Princess is learning cursive writing and really excited about it! By 2 pm I was exhausted and had to lie down. I think with all of the cleaning the past couple of days I wore myself out! I was going to go to Park Day today but wasn't sure how warm it would be (I was freezing for some reason). We were also doing well with our schoolwork so I thought we'd just skip it. I also skipped out on a dentist appointment I had today. It was that or take the kids with me and I could see that being a nightmare! Hopefully the date I rescheduled works for Zach to watch them.

On the moving front we can't be more excited. At first we were being shown some affordable homes but they were so small or ugly. We're tyring not to be picky, but it is a home we're going to be purchasing so we do want to be happy with it. We upped the price a bit and there's quite a few we like. We'll just have to see if we can afford that. We did look at our bills and try to figure things out somewhat but its so hard. We're hoping to drive to Iowa in April to really house hunt. I do not want to buy a house just looking at the pictures online! You never know what you may end up with or where it may be (there are many nice ones that seem like they're right by railroad tracks).

I have no idea what I'm going to do yet regarding the birth, but I'll keep praying about it and seeking information. I've gotten some names of midwives and such in that area from people I've been in touch with from there. The thing that excites me the most (I think I mentioned this before) is the church there. I know we haven't actually gone there yet, but it doesn't seem like it could get any better. The pastor's wife and I email back and forth and she is a wealth of information. Not to mention very encouraging. It is always difficult moving and leaving friends behind. When we moved here I was about 7 months pregnant with Cuddly Boy. Of course I was wondering how I'd meet somebody to care for the other two when I had him! I had a friend in NC who had a friend stationed here (the Air Force is a small world) and she hooked us up. We met the Blackmon's and became fast friends. They were the type of people I felt comfortable leaving my children with. And they were so helpful with us moving and having a baby! I feel like the Lord is providing that in Iowa also. He is so good in how He watches over us!

Jodie wants to see some pics of houses we like, so here we go!

415 Beedle Drive-the pictures the realtor sent don't seem as dark and stuff as these ones.

Red Oak Drive- this one is really expensive but I really like it!

Grant Circle- the rooms in this one seem big!

Larson Drive- another nice one

Duea Cr- I think I saw more pics on this from the realtor. I am not on my computer but the laptop so I'm unable to access them.

Greene St- Zach loves the bathtub!

I was trying to be content looking at 3 bedrooms but we've been so spoiled with room for so long that it is hard! And with adding 2 more children to our family this year its just more feasible to have a 4 bedroom and more room. Also, we've had 2 bathrooms for like 6 years so its hard to go to less than that for me. I've been quite spoiled (or blessed) in the houses we've lived in and I really can't imagine going much smaller. The house we're in now isn't very big but I love the open layout downstairs. I keep saying I wish we could just take this house with us! Anyway, I think I should wrap this post up.

I'm IT

Stephanie tagged me! So here goes...

Here are the rules:
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Well I can't really think of anything too weird...but here goes!

1. Yesterday and today was the first time I cleaned my house in about a month! That is very rare for me! It was so nasty and dusty! Good thing I am feeling better that I was able to tackle it.

2. I hate the south. Although I must admit the weather is nicer than it is where the majority of my family is and I like that. I just don't think people down here are as friendly as everybody says (sorry all you Southerners). I am so ready to move more north it isn't even funny!

3. I hate pop (soda). Now this is weird! Most of you know I was addicted to Cherry Pepsi and had to have at least a can a day. Since being pregnant any kind of pop is so sweet I can't stand it.

4. I don't like arts & crafts. I'm just not very creative. I can't draw and I don't like scrapbooking because I can't come up with creative ideas. The only artsy thing I can do is knit. I do have a sewing machine but haven't ventured too much into learning that art yet.

5. I'm addicted to house hunting online. I've probably looked at the same houses twenty times! I finally have gotten some new listings and am having fun repeatedly looking at them (and dreaming).

6. I like my sheet tucked in at the foot of the bed when I sleep. Zach needs it all pulled out. I like my feet nice and warm and don't want a breeze on them! So his side is usually out while mine is tucked in.

7. When I was a child I was terrified of thunderstorms. I remember one time hiding in a corner behind a table! Now I really like them. I love to watch the lightning.

I can't think of people to tag so just play along if you want;) Let me know if you do!

In Memory of Malachi Robert~ March 8, 2007

One year ago today I had the opportunity to hold my son's lifeless body as I said hello and good-bye. Malachi, you are forever etched upon our hearts and we love you.

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Knit together in my womb by the Creator's care and grace,

We anticipated your arrival- to gaze upon your tiny feet and darling face.

**

Little did we know our dreams were not to be complete,

Instead the Lord arranged for His face to be the first that you would meet.

**

We praised our Father for allowing us to gaze upon your form,

To hold you in our hands as we waged an emotional storm.

**

What a blessing it was to carry you within for the short time giv'n,

But rather than join your family you were carried into heaven.

**

The glory, the beauty, the splendor that beheld your little eyes,

Taking you from evil, sin, death and ugly lies.

**

We miss you, dear son, as we feel the void in our family,

But our minds are at rest knowing you're in the best place you can be,

And that one day we will join you for all eternity.

********************

ANTS!

Last week I actually did an art project with the children! I can't remember the last time we had! Little Man learned about ants and this idea was given in my teacher's book. I thought it was so cute and we had so much fun with it!

Stresses of Moving

I was so excited to move but its looking less and less exciting right now. I've been in touch with a Pastor & his wife of a family-integrated church in the area and that is about the only positive thing right now! He did recommend a realtor so we've been in touch with him but with Zach's BAH rate I don't think we'll get much of a house. I'm trying to be content in what we can afford, but I don't want to live in a dump or something that is really small and won't accommodate our growing family. I'm to the point where I just want to find a nice rental! Also, we don't have money to put down on a house. We have money in savings but that is for our adoption and I don't want to touch it! It is meant for a child, not a measly house! So please pray that the Lord opens the door as to what we should do as far as a house goes.

The other thing is doctors. After Rebecca posted about a book she read I've been thinking about how I really need to find an OB! The hospital in that area looks and sounds nice, but my question was whether they do VBACs. Princess was a c-section but the boys were successful VBACs. There's no way that I will get another c-section unless it is absolutely necessary! I talked to a nurse and she said they're discussing whether to continue with VBACs at that hospital. Great. I contacted a midwife clinic but it is 1/2 hour away from Ames. The lady was so nice and helpful. She does hospital births. I can't find information anywhere on whether homebirth is legal in the state or on lay midwives or anything. And I know my family is going to freak when they read this all. Now I need to start educating myself, so if you know of good birthing books or books on homebirth let me know (although my library has NOTHING). So if you have some and you'd be willing to let me borrow them I'd also be interested in that.

So many unknown things. I know they'll all work out but everything seems so uncertain at this point. I just want a normal birth and I want to live in a decent home!

An Amazing Weekend! (LONG)

My weekend was amazing. It didn't turn out quite as expected, but God is so good.

Thursday night I could barely sleep. I felt really bloated or something and my stomach hurt. When I awoke Friday morning I had a tiny bit of spotting, but it was barely visible. It did concern me a bit, especially combined with some cramping. But what could I do, I had to be at the airport to pick up Nancy & her girls! I made it out the door, though barely. For some reason my children were so sad to see me go. Cuddly Boy was just clinging to me and Princess was crying because she wanted to come. I felt horrible! I was so excited when I got to the airport and even more thrilled when I met up with Nancy and the crew! I somehow mentioned to them about the spotting and how I was concerned (I wasn't helping lift anything), telling them about my two miscarriages. I didn't want to keep it to myself in case something happened. But I was fine. I had some cramping here and there but I was enjoying getting to know Serene and Pearl and visiting with Nancy. It was such a blessing, cramping or not! We drove to Fairhope, Alabama and had lunch. As soon as I stepped out of the suburban I could tell I started bleeding. So I went to the bathroom as fast as possible, terrified of what I'd see. How could this be happening? Especially now!?!? Why??? Once I sat down to lunch they all prayed over me. I couldn't have been in better company. They were so encouraging! Serene was so positive and kept saying she thought everything was okay with the baby. I was able to somewhat put it aside and enjoy lunch. I didn't know whether to call Zach or not. It wasn't like I could go home at that point- we hadn't even made it to the camp yet! Plus he had to teach for a Master Instructor Award that afternoon and I didn't want to jeopardize that. So I simply waited to call him but did call my doctor's office. Of course they aren't too helpful in situations like this though!

After lunch we headed out. I had been sitting and everything was fine. I had some cramping again but I think driving took my mind off of it. I thought I was lost deep in the heart of Alabama and had to use OnStar and it was distracting! And the company was terrific! We made it to the camp and as soon as I stepped out of the vehicle I felt a gush. I just burst into tears. I looked down at my pants leg and it was soaked! Roseanne, a dear friend I know from retreats, quickly took care of me. She was wonderful! She put me in my room, had me lie down and rest, brought me drinks and checked to see how I was doing. I must add that the gush wasn't just blood, it was like water or something too and I was so worried! I lay in my bed for a few hours and that whole time I just cried out to God. I begged Him not to take my baby. I finally called Zach. I thought for sure he'd tell me to come home but he was pretty calm about it all. I will tell you that I couldn't have been anywhere better than where I was- in the company of Godly women who were uplifting me in prayers. I was wrapped in love!

I decided to get up and eat dinner (I was starving despite my condition). Let me tell you I NEVER bled again! I had some spotting but that was it! My cramping was GONE. So I really had this peace about me that everything with my precious baby was okay. If I was miscarrying it would have continually gotten worse. There was no way I was miscarrying. At times I doubted these thoughts, but through the whole weekend I kept holding on to HOPE. I had this peace that can only come from God. It was amazing! I was able to sit in the sessions and be blessed by Nancy's message and Serene, Pearl and Meadow's singing. I was able to visit with friends from former retreats as well as meet new friends. Women were coming up to me and just praying over me. Saturday I was feeling nauseous again! I rested as much as I could and did nothing during our free time but lie in bed. I was convinced everything was great. I was smiling and laughing, especially come Sunday.

Nancy talked about Powerful Parenting. It was wonderful. I felt distracted at times, my mind drifting to baby, so I really didn't get to soak it in until I was home. The thing that really sticks out to me is Positive Parenting. I feel like I've been such a negative parent. No, no, no is commonly heard. She also talked about our words and how when we open our mouth we either speak words of life or words of death. It was so convicting! Since I have been home I have really been working on this. And I've noticed that with my kinder tone of voice my children respond to me better (duh, Jamie). I just had a conversation with Little Man and when he walked away he said to his brother, "Mom is nice". Yesterday he prayed for me numerous times (once when I was puking, another time when I was saying my leg hurt). It is so unlike him to do that! Even in one day I saw the benefits of being a more positive parent! Amazing!

I was real sad for the weekend to end but oh so ready to come home to my family. I missed them! There are such incredible women that go to these retreats I wish I could take them home with me! But you always seem to walk away with a new friend and even closer to the old friends. I was bombarded with hugs when I walked in the door! It was so sweet! And I really needed it! I was going to stay home from Awana but I couldn't get a hold of the woman to tell her. I was exhausted and didn't want to overdo it. So we went. Good thing as there was only one worker until Zach & I got there- for 13 kids! It was stressful for me and I was about to fall asleep but I made it. I was able to talk to an OB that goes to our church (I hadn't been to a doctor at all and wanted to get an ultrasound to make sure everything was OK). He told me instead of me traveling to the base to come into his office in the morning for an ultrasound. It was so kind of him and we took him up on it!

You'd think I'd be nervous beforehand but I really knew everything was going to be fine. As soon as he put that instrument on my belly I saw a heartbeat! The baby wasn't even really in focus but I saw that heartbeat immediately! Praise GOD!!! It was a relief to know, even though I knew in my heart of hearts. He checked everything and everything looked fine! This baby is such a miracle! I am so blessed and so thankful to my Lord for protecting this life within me! And yet I never wavered from the hope and belief that all was well. I have been sick with nausea still and trying to catch up on sleep (last night I slept great, finally). And I've been trying to take it easy. I don't want to be stressed or overdo it, but I want to keep my baby safe and protected.

Two side notes that are funny...

1. Friday I had a baby-sitter since Zach was working. I had left some schoolwork for the two older children and one thing was for Little Man to practice writing his letters. When I called to check on them the sitter said he had practiced his letters. The day before we had worked on the letter 'f'. Apparently he was just writing and he wrote an 'f', then a 'u', then 'c' and then another letter. Then he sounded it out and read it! YIKES! It was just a fluke thing I'm sure but what a word to write and sound out!

2. Cuddly Boy was so sweet on the phone when I was gone. He always cracks me up because his little voice is so cute. Well, Zach must have told them mommy was bleeding (they were praying for me too), but not said anything else about it. So when I talked to CB one time he said, "Do you have blood all over you?" It was so funny! He probably pictured mommy at some off the wall place covered in blood! Poor boy!

And some pictures...

Nancy Teaching

Serene & Pearl Singing

Meadow & Pearl Singing

Pearl, me & Serene

Sarah Joy (I met her mom last year, she's adopted from China), Meadow, Me and Sapphire (Nancy's daughter from Liberia)

Unfortunately I didn't get a picture with Nancy. And I look terribly fat in the pictures!