The High Calling

Day by Day

2011-10-27T19:03:00.000-07:00

Thank you Charissa Khan for taking this picture!

Well, we've been super busy lately, but I wanted to give a brief update on our family. The little sweetheart pictured on the left has TOTALLY captured our hearts. The poor child is kissed from dawn to dusk. But can you blame us?

The transition from two to three children has been a lot easier then I thought it would be. This is largely due to the fact that Sariah is a super easy baby. She started sleeping through the night at four and a half weeks! I welcome the times when I have to stop and snuggle her for a while, because it makes me stop and sit for a moment.

Selena is loving Kindergarten at home. This mama loves teaching her! Poor Shana has little papers to do while Selena is working, but largely she just waits impatiently for Selena to be finished school for the day. I've had some trouble keeping her occupied, and trying to make her feel important and busy, but we are working on that.

My goals for each day are limited. School, work at home business duties, clothe all children, feed them and prepare dinner. I am not finding time to fit in laundry and house cleaning, so I tend to make a mad rush to do these things before E gets home. If I actually get anything else accomplished, it is a huge plus!

However, one thing I've learned, is that babies grow too quickly. Three year olds become five year olds too quickly, and my five year old is going to be a teenager soon. The dust bunnies can wait until later. My children need cherishing, and that is just what I am going to do!

Happy Three Years, Shana!

2011-10-10T06:07:00.001-07:00

Dear Shana,

Can our bouncy, big brown eyed sweetie really be THREE today? It is hard to believe! So many changes have happened in our family lately, but one thing will never change. Do you know what that is? Can you guess? It is our love for you, little one.

Every day, you bring joy to all of us. You are always telling us how much you love us, or giving us hugs and snuggles. You make us laugh when you pronounce your words in your own special way. Fly is Bee- yi. Floor is Bee-yore. And you like things "berry berry much!"

We always thought of you as the little sister, but you are now a BIG sister. You've turned into such a big girl. You give Sariah her pacifier, tuck her into her bassinet, and kiss her every hour. At the same time, you are doing preschool with Mommy, coloring about 40 pictures a day, and asking Daddy to take them all to work with him!

I hope you have a day filled with baked oatmeal, mackey and roni, cake, and lots of time to Pee- yay! (Play) And please, baby, don't grow up too quickly, because I am just loving you to pieces at this age.

Hugs and Kisses. Love you always, Miss THREE year old!

XOXOXOXOXO
Mama

Sariah Grace is here!

2011-10-03T16:33:00.000-07:00

We welcomed precious Sariah Grace into our lives and hearts on September 13, 2011. As you can see, we all adore her!

Happy Fifth Birthday, Selena!

2011-09-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Selena Beana,

Are we at FIVE already? Mama can't believe how quickly this year went, and how much you grew up during this year. You went from a little girl to a big girl so quickly.

You love life and live it fully. You spend every day using that vivid imagination of yours. You build, design, color, arrange, and create things that make us shake our heads in wonder.

You don't eat peanut butter and jelly for breakfast every single day like you did last year. You like peach oatmeal, french toast, and banana streusel muffins. You are a perfectionist, taking clothes out of your cabinet and Shana's too - refolding them until they are exactly to your liking. You straighten the house and clean your room every day.

This year, you've risen to the occasion. When you found out Mama was going to have a baby, you were so very excited. What you didn't know, is that Mama was going to have a lot of pain and need to rest a lot. I couldn't have had a better daughter. You are always wanting to help, finding ways to assist me without being asked. I honestly don't think I could have gotten through these months as easily without you. You seem to know just what I need. Thank you sweetheart!

You are learning so much about God, and teaching it to your sister. You truly have a desire to obey the Lord, and we are so happy about that.

What a good sister you are, helping Shana go potty and get dressed. She adores you, and no wonder! You make her life so interesting, and it makes me so happy to see the two of you with your dolls in your room, all wrapped up and cozy together in your bunk bed.

Your smile gets more beautiful every day, your hugs are more loving, and Daddy and Mommy look forward talking to you and discovering what is going on in that active brain of yours. Don't change. We love every single part of you. We are so proud of you for growing up, but we don't want to forget anything. We remember that pink bundle we brought home from the hospital, and how much we loved you. Can you believe we love you a gazillion times more now?

So happy birthday, beautiful five year old you. May this year be one of learning and growing. May you grow further in your knowledge of the things of Christ.

With lots and lots of love,

Mama

Playing with Felt

2011-05-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

I wish I had a picture to post of the girls playing with the felt doll set my mom gave them for Christmas. I stole one from www.thefeltsource.com!

This was such a brilliant idea for constructive play for my girls, that I wanted to share it.

My mom made each of the girls a felt board, putting a label with their names on the back. They are very careful that they get the right board when I allow them to get their felt sets out.

Selena and Shana each got two ziploc bags with a felt doll, and all of her clothes and accessories all cut out. I think my mom and Neesie spent a lot of time doing this, and I am so thankful!

Here is the description from the website: The 8" girl dolls are Lindsey, Maria, Mikko, and Keisha. They are used just like the old fashioned paper dolls except that they never wear out and like all of the felts at The Felts Source they are hand washable!

The really neat thing about these sets is that they each come with a Christian story that includes the other dolls as well as all the outfits that come in the sets. When I tell you that this provides hours of play for my girls, I am not joking. Today they had their felt boards set up on the floor between their beds, and were imagining all sorts of wonderful things. I didn't hear from them for an hour and a half!

There are boy dolls available too. I'm considering getting the girls the felt dollhouse or the story sets as well, since they like the dolls so much.

If you are interested in getting these dolls for your family, the website is here.

Two Saturday Mornings for Two Girls

2011-04-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

Early one Saturday morning, two weeks ago, a little girl was swooped out of her bed by her Daddy. He dressed her quietly and quickly, but not before another little nightgown clad figure appeared at our bedroom door with a questioning face and furrowed brow.

"Your week is next week," the little anxious one was told.

An little over an hour later, Daddy and oldest daughter came home bearing goodies in a brown bag, and we got to hear about the breakfast date with Daddy.

A week later, the smallest girl was similarly whisked out of bed and hurriedly dressed. Her older sister was still snoring in her mountain of pink blankets. With a giggle and a wiggle she gave me a big kiss and practically flew downstairs with her Daddy.

When she returned, she walked on air, prattling on and on about her Dunkin' Donuts trip. She danced all morning with a glow on her face.

The girls are already talking about their May dates with Daddy and the fun they will have. Who knows, maybe I'll get one too!

Lately ...

2011-04-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

Lately the weather hasn't seemed to be able to make up its mind! We have hot days, cold days, snowy days, rainy days, and they are sometimes rolled into one week. But inside our home, I've been busy with just holding things together. This pregnancy has been my weariest, but also my most laid back and relaxed. The girls are so excited at the prospect of a new little one to love and bother. They have such plans for this baby! We've been hearing prayers like this at Bible time: "Dear God. Um ... is it a brother or a sister? And, do we need a van? And, um, please help the baby to grow big and strong, and help Mommy not to be so tired." (Lena) "Dear Lawd. Dank you bor dis day. Dank you bor brudder or sister." (Shana)

Lately I've been loving to make this recipe (thank you - oh - thank you Pioneer Woman). We like to call it Mackey and Roni, as it was aptly named by Shana.

Lately I've been wondering how we can be thinking about starting homeschooling already. Wasn't it just yesterday that I was dressing her in baby gowns?

Lately I've been napping with the girls. Oh how I look forward to my snuggly red blanket and an hour to drift off and rejuvenate.

Lately our Selena has been so interested in spiritual things. We are so encouraged, and we are answering all her questions with joy in our hearts!

Lately I've been so thankful for E, who is always there to make my day wonderful. Whether he's stopping in for lunch, making up inventive games for the girls, or rubbing my back, I thank God for him.

Lately ... I've also been missing blogging, and I am SO glad to be writing again!

Ultimate Blog Party Post

2011-03-31T19:11:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have a confession to make. I have been letting my blog go for the past few months. I really miss blogging, and what better time to get back into the mix? Welcome to my little spot on the web.

My name is Beverly, and I am a wife and mom to two sweet princesses, and there is a blessing on the way too! God has been so good to our little family. The girls fill our lives with giggles and beauty as we see the world through their eyes.

I love reading,writing, and cooking and I love me some coffee too. If I were to imagine out my perfect day, I'd be in front of a fireplace wrapped up in a cozy blanket with a book. Oh, and there would definitely be a pot of spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove. Comfort food is a must for a perfect day.

I am so happy to have had this opportunity to get to know you through the UBP. I would be honored to visit your spot on the web too. Thank you, 5 Minutes for Mom!

Two Little Very Grown - up Girls

2010-10-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

Once there was a mama who loved her little girls very much. She loved to peek over the side of her bed to look at them as they slept in the bassinette when they first came home from the hospital.

She loved to stare at them as they slept in their comfy crib, even though she had to stand on her tippy toes to touch them as they slept.

She loved to kneel next to their toddler bed as they lay there among their many dolls and stuffed animals.

And she just can't wait to sit on their big girl beds and read them bedtime stories before tucking them in and giving them extra kisses.

Every stage of life is a blessing ...

Happy Second Birthday, Shana!

2010-10-09T04:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Shana,

I can't believe you are turning two tomorrow. Our baby has grown up. We love you from the top of your curly head to your little toes.

You are such a big girl! We took down your crib, and now you are in a big girl bed. We bought you a potty chair and you have a brand new big box of pull ups in the closet! You can brush your own teeth, and you even have two chores to do each day.

You "yike" so many things. We look forward to the times when you tell us what you "yike." One of the sweetest moments for Daddy was when you were looking at him with your big beautiful eyes filled with love. You turned to me and said, "Mama, I yike Da - eee." And he "yikes" you, sweet one.

Other things you "yike:" M&M's, Baby Bay, yogurt, yellow, socks, James the red engine, bubble baths, and strawberries. You also like to stand right behind me while I'm cooking dinner, holding onto my leg so that you can step wherever I step.

You have the most tender heart, and you love to show us how much you care for us. Sometimes you will just hold your arms up for a hug, or you will lay your head in your sister's lap. We are always stopping to kiss you because you are just that sweet. You seem to touch hearts wherever you go, with your adorable smile and cute little way of speaking.

I can hardly believe that you are growing so fast, and you want so much to be like your big sister. But you know what, my Shae Shae? You will always be my baby. I never want to forget how irresistibly cute you were at the brink of two.

You can climb up next to me and snuggle with me anytime you want, baby girl. Because two years went way too quickly, and your mama loves you soooooo much.

Happy two, my sweet.

Happy Fourth Birthday, Lena!

2010-09-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Lena,

What a year you've had, sweetie! I was looking at pictures of your third birthday this morning. Your legs have grown, your face is more adult looking, and you are blossoming into even more of a sweetheart.

Daddy and I are so proud of your tender heart. When we read the book about the bear who became friends with a homeless man, you were close to tears as you thought about someone not having a home. You want to give all the coins in your piggy bank to the children who don't have enough food for lunch. "They don't have peanut butter and jelly, mama. If I give them my money, they can get some," you say.

We're proud of what a wonderful big sister you are. Last month when we went to the inflatable bounce place with friends, you waited for so long at the top of the slide for your little sister to struggle up the steps. You let children go past you many times, just so that you could hold her hand as you went down together. You painstakingly press puzzle pieces into her hand and guide her to do puzzles that are way too advanced for her. You tuck her into your bed and then snuggle next to her to read together.

You are making your own peanut butter and jelly sandwiches now, and you love the color purple and the number 20. You loudly proclaim that Aisle 20 is your favorite to all the shoppers in Shop Rite. You love Thomas the Train, but we are only allowed to name the engines in numerical order. You put your blocks away in color coded order and you can count to 100. You love to read and do puzzles, and you have an avid imagination. You help mama sort the laundry, even though you usually jump in it after that!

Do you remember last week, when I asked you what it felt like to have a Daddy and Mommy who love you so much? You dimpled and wrapped your arms around your cute little self and said, "It feels like looooooove, mama!" And you were right, because every time I look at you, Lena Bean, it feels like love.

Love. Forever.
Mama

Quiet Time.

2010-08-20T03:46:00.000-07:00

Sigh. Not a harried, frustrated sigh, but an "ahhhhhhhh." I've shared before that I am not a morning person, but if mornings could all be like this ...

The girls are still sleeping, and my peaceful Gentle Showers CD is playing in the background. I've been able to truly start my day talking to my Heavenly Father and my husband this morning - what a blessing!

All too soon, the two princesses will be up, clamoring for my lap, my time, my words, my attention.

All too soon my mind will be filled with that gigantic to-do list.

Too soon, I'll be lost in the schedule of our day, starting up our coffee pot to savor a cup of my favorite flavored coffee.

But for now, even the coffee pot is silent, and I am loving this time.

Good morning.

A tidbit from my quiet time ...

2010-08-02T04:51:00.000-07:00

A Word About the Seasons of Life
taken from Powerful Promises for Every Woman Growth and Study Guide
by Elizabeth George

"Each of the four seasons offers fresh and vital insights ... As each three-month segment of every year holds its own mysteries and plays its own melodies ... so it is in the seasons of life. The Master is neither mute nor careless as He alters our times and changes our seasons. How wrong to trudge blindly and routinely through a lifetime of changing seasons without discovering answers to the new mysteries and learning to sing the new melodies! Seasons are designed to deepen us, to instruct us in the wisdom and ways of our God. To help us grow strong ..."

2010-07-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I haven't posted in a very long time! We are just enjoying our summer a little too much.

My little girls are growing into young ladies right before my eyes. They are so busy every day with playing dress up, building towers, making tunnels in their blankets, taking care of their dolls and animals, and reading their books. They are truly best friends.

I'm a busy mommy right now. I've been working hard on my two businesses, and trying to manage my schedule so that I'm spending ample time on housework, mommy duties, just playing with my girlies, and being a faithful wife. I am still working on it, but by the fall I hope to actually have a consistent schedule that works for all of us. I'll be doing Pre-K with Lena, and probably try to incorporate Shana as much as I can. Sometimes I just stop everything, crawl into a blanket tunnel with the girls, and snuggle with them. They are growing so quickly that I don't want to miss one moment.

I am so proud of E right now. He just passed his last test to become a licensed land surveyor. He has worked so very hard, and burned the midnight oil studying. God has been so gracious to all of us!

So, we may be a little scarce this summer while mama gets her schedule together, but I just wanted to stop in to say hello. I'll stop in again to visit all of you friends too.

Love from our house!

Chuckles

2010-06-09T20:06:00.000-07:00

Things that made me chuckle (or cringe) this week:

"Mama, I turned around today. Now I'm four because I turned four."

"Ni ni cwothes, bruth teeeeeeeeeeth, ni ni time." "Yes, Shae. Your teeth are sooooo yellow, you need to brush them. Here, let me do it FOR you."

Two minutes after Daddy leaves for work. Dramatic Sigh. "I am just missing my Daddy. But he is going to work to get money for us. Do you think he'll give me a penny when he gets home?"

"I need some strawberries because my back is hurting. It will feel me better."

"Ear Dod. Ank oooo for ood. Bess it do dour bobees. In Esus ame. Anen."

"Sha-NA! You are not being kind and you are making God sad because you are not giving me the *** fill in the blank toy*** I want. You need to share with me. Obey."

Upon reading a story book. "It wasn't a whale, mama. It was just a big fish that swallowed Jonah. Why would they lie?"

"God did so much for us. He made me, He made you, Daddy, He made you, Shana, and mama, (dramatic pause) He EVEN made YOU."

Little Blips

2010-06-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

Our dryer broke down last week, and I'm ashamed to say that it threw me for quite the loop. I was in the middle of painting our guest room, had spent waaaaay too much time at Home Depot, and my poor girls were fending for themselves while I painted.

On a tired evening, I was downstairs trying to redeem myself by keeping up with the laundry at night. I had neglected my normal Monday 3 load day. The dryer shook violently before it died.

We tried everything to revive it, but it was really dead. I tried to be brave, shrug it off, and clean up my kitchen for the night. (By the way, the dishwasher was planning to malfunction in the morning).

So in the midst of half painted walls and piles of wet laundry, I let the frustration take over. I spoke sharply to the other three unsuspecting members of my family. I walked around in a "mood" showing my displeasure.

Now, a week later, I have a dryer again. The dishwasher is fixed, the guest room is painted, and I realize how very insignificant those little blips in my life were. I'm so glad we have a merciful God who forgives.

And Lena won't let me forget my little lesson:

"Remember you were in such a bad mood Mommy? And remember how you had to say sorry because you didn't have a happy heart?"

Yes, I remember.

Other Members of our Family

2010-05-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

Just stopping in with a sweet thought ...

I never would have imagined that my favorite childhood doll would be loved by my own two daughters. I have had Samantha since I was two years old. My two girls adore her. They know to treat her gently and since she "lives" in Mama's room, they only have limited access to her. They treat her with much more care than they do their own dolls, Emma and Baby Bay.

Emma can often be found hanging from Selena's bed by one arm or riding face down in the baby stroller. At night she is forced to sleep underneath the dead weight of her sleeping mama.

She is fed about once a week, and is usually carried from place to place by her head.

Baby Bay, short for Dikembe Mutumbo (yes, daddy named her after a basketball player) - lives a more smothered existence. She rarely gets to take a breath, as she is constantly sought after by her 18 month old mistress. She is held all night long, and is chewed on, licked, and otherwise loved nearly to death.

Baby Samantha lives a semi-retired life of ease, and reigns as matriarch over the other two dolls. Sometimes they recline with her on Mama's bed, but often she is left in peace. She is kissed by two pairs of little lips, and her hat is adjusted every now and then. She is always smiling.

She is happy because her life has been filled with love, and she represents four generations of women. She has a drawer full of handmade clothes sewn with love by my Grammy. My parents gave her to me, and my mom passed down her own baby bed for her to sleep in. I brought her with me when I got married, and now my own girls get to love and enjoy her. Blessings abound!

2010-05-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

Even though fall is my favorite season, there's a lot to love about summer! One of my favorite things is that we grill about three times a week minimum. At lunchtime, I whip up a marinade, pour it into a ziploc bag or glass dish, and let it sit in the fridge until E gets home.

While he's outside grilling, the girls play and I prepare the rest of the meal. I don't know how many of you use the Pioneer Woman's recipes, but we are fans!

I wanted to share one of new favorite summer side dishes which is just mouthwatering with grilled chicken, steak, or pork:

Katie's Roasted Corn Salad

VEGETABLES
Olive oil
8 fresh corn ears
1 red onion, quartered
2 yellow squash, halved lengthwise
1 red bell pepper
2 medium tomatoes

DRESSING
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
12 basil leaves, cut into chiffonade
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 garlic cloves, chopped

1. Begin by heating a grill pan (or outdoor grill). Drizzle the grill with olive oil. Place the corn on the grill and drizzle liberally with olive oil.
I love drizzling with olive oil. It's my life.

2. Grill for 5-8 minutes, until the corn is beginning to brown.

3. Drizzle the onion with olive oil and grill just until it starts to become tender. Do not allow to overcook as you'll want the onion to remain somewhat firm.

4. Repeat with halved summer squash and red bell pepper. Allow vegetables to cool slightly after grilling.

5. Roughly chop the onion, squash, and pepper. With a sharp knife, scrape the corn kernels from the cob. Dice the tomatoes and add them to the mix.

6. To make the dressing, in a separate bowl, pour the olive oil and balsamic vinegar and whisk together until combined.

7. Finally, add the basil, a dash of salt, and garlic and whisk together.

8. Serve with tortilla chips and crackers, or spoon on top of grilled chicken. Delicious!

This recipe came from The Pioneer Woman Cooks Cookbook by Ree Drummond

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-08T04:56:00.000-07:00

A Mother's Love

A Mother's love is something
that no one can explain,
It is made of deep devotion
and of sacrifice and pain,
It is endless and unselfish
and enduring come what may
For nothing can destroy it
or take that love away . . .
It is patient and forgiving
when all others are forsaking,
And it never fails or falters
even though the heart is breaking . . .
It believes beyond believing
when the world around condemns,
And it glows with all the beauty
of the rarest, brightest gems . . .
It is far beyond defining,
it defies all explanation,
And it still remains a secret
like the mysteries of creation . . .
A many splendoured miracle
man cannot understand
And another wondrous evidence
of God's tender guiding hand.

- Helen Steiner Rice -

To my mom, I love you.
To my mom in law, thank you.
To all you mothers that have encouraged, taught, and led by example, I will remember.

To the new moms, cherish every moment.

If you are missing your mom this weekend, may God soothe your pain.
If you are waiting to be a mother, and it hurts,
He sees your tears.

To my girls who have made me a mama,
i. love. you. always.

I Need You

2010-04-21T17:08:00.000-07:00

Moms, you know what I'm talking about. It all started in the middle of the night when I awakened suddenly to hear a sad voice.

"Mama? I need you."

My whole body protested as I dragged my feet over the side of the bed and stumbled into my little Selena who was waiting for me with outstretched hand. She led me into her room. To make a long story short, the CD player in the girl's room had just stopped working.

After I had dragged the monstrosity of a stereo from the guest room into the girl's room, dropping it on my big toe in the process, classical music was again softly playing. After planting kisses on the two princesses, I breathed a sigh of relief.

Back in bed, my eyes were wide awake as I mentally planned the day ahead, thought about the day gone by, and wished I were sleeping as soundly as E.

Morning came too soon. The girls were up at the crack of dawn.

It was a day full of spills and messes.

Spilled coffee, orange juice, apple juice ... name it, it spilled!

Many prayers were whispered from this mama's lips. "Please Lord, help. I need You. My hip is hurting, I'm feeling irritable, and I need grace to fall from my lips today."

You know what?

We had an absolutely wonderful grocery shopping trip. The girls were happy, and cheered others around them. We were eating lunch, and E showed up totally unexpectedly to pick up something he had left at home. The girls got to have some fun, and I got some extra needed hugs and encouragement. After E went back to work, all three of us got to nap.

Blessings upon blessings. All little things that meant so much to a weary mom.

How wonderful that He is there when we say, I need You, Lord.

And the Winner Is ....

2010-04-20T14:32:00.001-07:00

... Jennifer from Parenting in Blue Jeans!

Congratulations Jennifer, and you'll be hearing from me. :-)
I hope you make many lovely omelettes with those pans.

Life Lessons

2010-04-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

So today, Selena's fish Tico died. She received two fish for her third birthday. Tico has always been sickly. I think he has "almost died" about once a month in the six months we've had him. This morning I noticed that when we fed the two fish, that Tico stayed at the bottom of the tank. He slowly died until late afternoon.

Selena seemed so cheerful through the process, running to see if Tico was still alive. I was very sad, she seemed almost excited about the whole thing. But when she got up from her nap and ran to check the tank, I could see her sadness. She went upstairs, and I found her on the floor, face pressed into the carpet. I hugged her for a while, and we went to find a little earring box to bury Tico in.

She told me that she thought Daddy would make Tico alive again when he came home. I explained to her that Tico was not ever coming back. She wanted to help E take her little dead fish out of the tank and she got her plastic rake to "help" us bury him.

As I tucked my little sad girl into bed, I wished I could take away all her hurts. I wish that I could shield both of my girls from sadness. But then I remembered that it is through these things that they will grow. They will become who God wants them to be. So my role is to kiss away those tears. Let them cry. Let them learn and grow.

Life Lessons.

A Giveaway

2010-04-10T18:22:00.000-07:00

**** EDITED TO ADD: Giveaway is closed! I'll be announcing the winner sometime today! (Tues April 20th)****

I'd like to get out my speakers and my speaker stands and announce a giveaway. I'm so excited to be able to share this with you!

On a normal Saturday morning, you will see my husband and I in the kitchen cooking breakfast together. Even though I'm not a morning person, I treasure these times.

CSN stores has given me the opportunity to give away these beauties.

Yup, they are what you think they are! They are 10" and 12" Calphalon Contemporary Omelette Pans!

Here are the stats in case you were wondering:

Nonstick surface makes cleanup easy and promotes low-fat and non-fat cooking
Versatile vessel shape that accommodates several different cooking techniques
Thick, wide bottom for quick, even heating with little or no oils
Sloping sides allow food to glide freely from the pan to your plate
Long handle stays cool on the stovetop for hours of comfortable cooking
Oven safe up to 450 degrees

Also good to know ... the handle is stainless steel, you don't want to put these in the dishwasher, the pans are made in the USA, and they have a lifetime warranty.

So about this giveaway ...

1. You need to comment to enter.
2. If you follow my blog, let me know in a separate comment. (Another entry)
3. Tweet this giveaway, come back and tell me about it in a separate comment. (Another entry)
4. This giveaway will run for one week. I will close comments on Monday, April 19th at 12PM Eastern time.
5. You don't have to be a blogger to enter, but I will need an email address to contact you with!
6. This giveaway is only open to US and Canada

Happy cooking!

Party Time

2010-04-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

Hello there! Welcome to my little spot on the web. My name is Beverly, and here I talk about my life as a wife, mom of two, and child of the King.I believe that being a wife and mother is indeed a High Calling. Join me and talk about joys and sorrows, with some humor thrown in.

I must admit, I do love me some coffee, some nice thick books, and some sort of snuggly blanket to make it all cozy! My husband and my two girls, ages 3 and 1, keep me busy. But it is a good busy!
So if you were visiting me in person, I'd most certainly brew you some coffee and offer you a great assortment of creamers to go with it. Thanks for stopping by. I hope we can be friends. If you would be so kind as to leave me a comment, I would love to come visit you too!

And because 5 Minutes for Mom is so lovely as to facilitate a huge giveaway for this party, I'd looooove to win (#39) Be My Guest Certificate from Hilton Garden Inn,

(#USC8) The $55 e-gift card to Amazon.com from Kelly's Lucky You, or (#USC3)the $50 Amazon gift card given by Peggy Gorman. And if those are taken, I'd be delighted with numbers 1,3,19,32, 57, 69,78, or 101 from the U.S. Continental List.

2010-04-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

Last night as the girls heard the story of Jesus' death and resurrection, Lena's eyes were wide. We pray that these things will take root in the hearts of our girls.

I posted this quote as my Facebook status, and wanted to repost it here:

"Christianity has no more precious possession than the memory of Jesus during the week when He stood face to face with death ... He was never so great as during those days of direct calamity. All that was grandest and all that was most tender, the most human and the most divine aspects of His character, were brought out as they had never been before." James Stalker

But how wondrous it is, that Jesus' death is not the end of the story!

Stalker continues:

"There never was an enterprise in the world which seemed more completely at an end than did that of Jesus on the last Old Testament Sabbath. Christianity died with Christ, and was laid with Him in the sepulcher. It is true that when, looking back at this distance, we see the stone rolled to the mouth of the tomb, we experience little emotion; for we are in the secret of Providence and know what is going to happen. But when He was buried, there was not a single human being that believed He would ever rise again before the day of the world's doom."

And this:

"As Christ rose from the dead in a transfigured body, so did Christianity. It had put off its carnality ... The incontestable proof is the change itself -- the fact that suddenly they had become courageous, hopeful, believing, wise, possessed with noble and reasonable views of the world's future, and equipped with resources sufficient to found the Church, convert the world, and establish Christianity in its purity among men."

The Girl's March Memory Verse (and song)

2010-03-24T16:35:00.000-07:00

Blessings

2010-03-03T17:37:00.000-08:00

Today my sweet girls played dress up almost all day long. E and I gifted them with a big hatbox full of clothes, hats, and shoes as one of their Christmas gifts. Today, Lena dragged the box out and emptied it on the floor. I had to giggle as I watched her transform her sister into a thing of beauty. As I watched them at play, I thought back to myself as a little girl.

I used to wonder what my life would be like when I was "all grown up." I wondered if God would send me a husband, and if I would have children.

Remembering this makes me all the more thankful for what I have. What a blessing to be able to watch my little girls play dress up. I couldn't help but reach out and give Lena a squeeze as she teetered by in some fluffy slippers.

This stage of parenting is so fulfilling and yet somewhat frightening. The girls are little sponges, and they want to be like mama. When I am doing my hair, they stand behind me in wide eyed amazement. They pay attention to what mama reads, looks at, says, and does.

What a responsibility for E and I. May we glorify God!

Winter Wonderland

2010-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

We've had a LOT of snow this winter. The above picture was taken after our first major storm. By the end of it all, the Valentine's Day flag you can see in the picture, was completely covered with snow!
What is it about a snowstorm?

Is it the wonder in their eyes?

Or is it the fun we have inside, burrowing under blankets, cooking up a storm, reading, watching movies, taking long naps, and drinking coffee and hot chocolate?

Maybe it is the time that we emerge into the winter wonderland, shoveling, laughing, building, until we are too cold to stay any longer?

Is it that Daddy gets to stay home with us?

I even enjoy those couple of days before an impending storm, the time when I stockpile groceries, books and movies, making sure we are all set for being stuck in the house.

Spring is just around the corner though, and I do look forward to being about to get out and about a bit more.

Hope you are all well.
Love from Us.

2010-01-28T16:32:00.000-08:00

We made it through three nights and four days without Daddy! This was the first time I have been apart from E this long, and I am so glad he is safely home again. Selena and I made this calendar while she was blinking back tears after saying goodbye. Each morning she crossed off another day on the calendar. Shana was very sad because she couldn't understand where Daddy was, and kept asking for him.

While my husband was away, I grew to appreciate even more what an active role he plays in our lives, and how he makes our lives brighter. I also grew to appreciate Selena as a big sister to Shana, and mommy's helper.

One of my friends, Sara, came and stayed for one of the nights, and made the time go so much faster. She colored with Lena, read to her, and built towers out of blocks.

Hope you are all well!

Clean Eating

2010-01-11T17:04:00.000-08:00

Lately, we've been trying to "eat clean." I really feel that I've been a little lax in doing the very best to make healthy choices for my family. I take better care of the girls than I do my husband and myself. The girls eat 3 meals a day, and two snacks. They eat so many fruits and veggies, and love them. We sit down for dinner together as a family, so we are all eating the same things for that major meal, but after the girls go to bed, we've been totally indulging. Coffee with lots of creamer, ice cream or some other sugary dessert has become a real habit. It's our little date time together.

Also, E and I like to cook together. It's become somewhat of a hobby. I chop, he stirs, we taste, Lena sets the table, Shana runs around the kitchen ... love it!

And then I got the Pioneer Woman cookbook for Christmas. The recipes are soooo - sooooo - SO yummy - and fattening!

I feel like I have no excuse NOT to use fresh ingredients in my recipes. We live very close to 4 farmer's markets, and one family owned produce stand that sells everything at an amazing price. I got a whole box of produce for under 10 dollars.

So E and I have been using fresher ingredients, cutting out a lot of the sugar we had gotten into the habit of eating at night, drinking more water, and trying to make better choices. We can still cook together, food still tastes good, and I even made a corn salad out of my new cookbook. I used all fresh ingredients, and we ate it on top of some grilled chicken. Can you say, yum? And I try to reserve my penchant for cooking comfort foods for once a week.

Bon Appetit!

2010-01-06T05:16:00.000-08:00

Oh, the holidays are over. We enjoyed them to the fullest, but it is nice to get back into some semblance of a routine again.

Christmas was full of wonder for the girls. We savored their joy. Selena decorated their room with glittery paper snowflakes, a jolly snowman, and Bible pictures related to Jesus' birth. I set up a little Christmas tree in their room on top of Shana's bookshelf, and let Selena decorate that as well. Selena especially enjoyed learning "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night," and talking about the angels singing, "Glory to God in the Highest!"

I am so pleased that everyone stayed healthy so that we were able to enjoy our families to the fullest. New Years weekend was a very quiet affair for us, and we just enjoyed each other. We experimented with cooking, stayed in pajamas, read, played games, and watched movies. Oh - and took long naps. Delicious!

Mama's Heart

2009-12-11T20:10:00.000-08:00

A mama's heart loves. Like a mother bear protecting her cub, a mama fiercely loves her children.

A mama's heart melts. In a second, all frustrations melt away with the touch of little dimpled hands or a baby kiss.

A mama's heart yearns. With all of her being, a christian mama wants her children to love Him as she does.

A mama's heart weeps. When her child hurts, she feels it deep within. When her child hurts others, she is weighed down with the knowledge of her child's deeds. When others hurt her child, she mourns, and wishes she could take the pain away.

A mama's heart rejoices. With every achievement, milestone, and joy, her heart sings.

Today was a day filled with sweet mama moments, and I am savoring each one. Hope you are all well!

A Time to Give Thanks

2009-11-24T19:48:00.000-08:00

Today, Selena and I were talking about Thanksgiving, and I had her make a thank you card for all of the things that she was thankful to God for. I wasn't surprised that the first thing she was thankful for was her "stistor, Shana."

Well, I am so very thankful for this,

and this,

and this.

And oh my, how can I forget the little fingerprints on my glass doors? I was noticing them today, indicative of little fingers playing"drum." Yes, I am thankful for fun times.

We noticed last week, that our house was very cold. Upon further inspection, we realized that our furnace had stopped working. I'm thankful that it was under warranty. I'm thankful that it is fixed, and we are toasty warm again.

I'm thankful for little things. Hugs, candles, tall mugs of steaming coffee. Thick books and the time to read them. Laughter. Blankets. Fuzzy Sweaters.

And I am thankful for family and friends near and far. My aunt went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, and she is now experiencing unspeakable joy. I'm thankful that we can rejoice for her.

And on that note, I'll take my leave. Because there is nothing that I could be more thankful for than the love of Christ - unchanging, merciful, free. Thank you.

Happy Thanksgiving.

We've been absent ...

2009-11-16T07:29:00.000-08:00

News from our little household has been slim lately, hasn't it? I do miss blogging here regularly, but will stop in as I can.

God has continued to fill our home with the laughter of our little ones. Selena is progressing in her quest for learning to read, slowly but surely. She can read simple (three letter) words, and is learning to sound out. We studied apples in September, pumpkins in October, and we are studying turkeys this month. She helped make apple pie and pumpkin muffins too! Shana joins us as we read and color, her little hands busy trying to take Lena's papers or knock over her carefully planned building blocks. It is a good learning experience for both of them! Lena is mama's helper, and is growing so quickly. I am so thankful for my intuitive girl who has inherited mommy's talkative nature!

Shana has very little to say, but her eyes tell us everything. She is simply sweet with her impromptu kisses and hugs. She is very purposeful in her play -- stacking plates and cups, pretending to fold laundry, and clapping and singing. Her favorite word is "Neenaa." She is always at my feet when I am cooking or cleaning, watching and imitating.

I am reminded every day of the blessings God has given me:

I simply love being a mom. Especially to these two girls who drink in every word I say, imitate my every move, and teach me where I've sinned without even knowing it.

How wonderful to be able to live, love and share common goals with my very best friend in the whole world. Watching my husband with my girls has increased my love and respect for him. He takes the time to listen and to teach.

What am I working on? My organization!! It seems I do this every year, because my tendency is to be extremely organized for a short period of time, and then fall into old habits. I need to develop a system for my coupons. Right now they are in a basket next to my bed, and this isn't working as well. I also need to go through our entire file system and put old paperwork in banker boxes.

How are all of you? How are you enjoying fall? It hasn't been very cold this fall, so it doesn't seem quite right that Thanksgiving is just around the corner!

Check my sidebar for Speakable Gifts' Christmas list. My mom and I are hoping that everyone who buys presents at Christmas time, will consider at least one spiritual or at least character building gift this year!

2009-10-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to stop in here to wish my man a Happy Birthday. He is truly a gift from God, and the girls and I are so blessed to have him. He jokes about being outnumbered in our household of girls, but he is adored by all three of us.

You can read more about my wonderful husband here, here, and here. Oh, and here too!

Bedside Chats

2009-10-19T04:36:00.000-07:00

What do you say to your children before bedtime? Selena is now three, and the going to bed routine has gotten longer. As I've mentioned before, the two girls sleep in the same room now. Shana goes to bed about an hour before Lena does, so about 8pm, Lena and I (or Daddy) tiptoe upstairs for teeth brushing, final pottying, storytelling time.

After Lena is tucked into bed amid her many billowy blankets, stuffed animals and two pillows, she is ready for a story. She has an imaginary friend, so I often spin my stories around adventures that she, Shana, and her imaginary friend would have.

After one particularly discouraging day, my heart was full of love for her. Full of love and longing that she will one day be a woman of God. I started my story as usual:

"Once upon a time, there were --"
"TWO GIRLS!" she whisper shouted.
"And their names were Selena and Shana, and they were --"
"BEST FRIENDS!" she finished for me.

Then I paused, looking at her wide eyes and eager expression. I realized what a teachable moment I had, and began to tell my story in such a way that it would be character building for her. She was raptly attentive, and I was able to talk to her after the story. We said one of the verses that she knows, and as always, we prayed together for her and Shana.

Ever since that night, I have tried to take full advantage of those moments before she sleeps. I encourage her for the wonderful traits her daddy and I have seen in her, and I talk to her about some of the areas that need attention. We do this at naptime sometimes too if there is something good or otherwise that needs to be mentioned. And there are times, when I feel that all of this would be burdensome, so we just have our little story and then she goes to sleep. I pray that this will bear fruit in both of my girls. Sometimes Shae wakes up while we are talking, and I tuck her into bed next to Selena and talk to both of them for a few minutes.

Do you have a special place for your teachable moments? I'd love to hear about it!

Happy Birthday, Shana!

2009-10-10T03:09:00.000-07:00

Shana.

Shana of the sparkling eyes and irresistable smile. Today is your first birthday, babybug. There are so many things that I love about you. Would you like to know a few?

You are a busy little bumblebee, always doing something. When we go downstairs in the morning, you go right to the baby cups and plates and throw them to the floor, screaming with delight as they clatter. You started walking at nine months old, and I love watching you toddle around the house behind your big sister. You love us so freely, and we all adore you.

You growl with delight when something pleases you. You try to make us laugh with your little joke of blowing into the lid of a cup. You do it over and over while we pretend to convulse with laughter.

You love life so much. You are happy from the moment you wake up until you lay your little curly head down at night. When you laugh, you'll throw yourself backwards no matter where you are. Sometimes you bump your head, but you rarely cry about it. You are always discovering new things to love. You astonished me when we went to storytime with Selena, and you enjoyed it so much, even at your young age.

My favorite time of the day with you is when we sit on the floor together, just the two of us. I hold out my arms, and you run to me. We rock and you pat my back.

You and Selena are truly the best of friends. You hold hands in the car, hug and kiss all day long, wrestle until one of you cries, and play together in quiet reading time. You stay in your crib, and your sister "reads" to you, or you sing together and pretend to cook. You are never perfectly happy unless your sister is nearby.

You are definitely a Daddy's girl, which is adorable. As I type, you and Daddy are rocking in the big chair. You are lying down on him, eyes wide open, perfectly still, except for the slow movement of your pacifier. You are making contented sounds deep in your throat. Daddy is your rock, and you wait for him to come home all day.

Shana, I simply can't believe that you are turning one. You are such a joy to all of us. When I look at you I remember the first time I saw you, just a year ago. You are our precious babybug.

I. Love. You.

Happy One.

Love,
Mama

Five Years

2009-09-24T18:33:00.001-07:00

I remember what I was doing five years ago at this time. It was the night before my wedding, and I was watching Pride and Predjuice with my bridesmaids, and mom. We were sprawled out on mattresses and sleeping bags on the floor of our apartment - our new home. The kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms were all set up. Items from our hope chest were lovingly placed, and there was even food stacked in the pantry. I was in a sort of surreal cloud. I was feeling that bittersweet emotion. Leaving home for the first time. Thinking about marrying the man that I truly loved. The details of the wedding had become irrelevant. I just wanted to get that white dress and veil on.

Tonight, I am wrapped in a thick blanket, sitting on the bed. Children's toys are in a basket in the corner. We are in a different house, in a different state.

Instead of two, we are four now. The love we had then has multiplied. All I know is that God in His perfect wisdom knew who was perfectly suited to me. I love being married to my husband and best friend. I can't believe we've crammed all of this happiness into five years.

Happy Anniversary tomorrow sweetie ...

Remembering

2009-09-11T11:04:00.001-07:00

“Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children."
- President George W. Bush, November 11, 2001

Today, on this day that we remember, the windswept rain is beating against our windows. The girls are sick, the humidifier is going, and our bodies are tired. But we have so much to be thankful for as we remember. For we still have our family intact, the illness is temporary, and our home is full of laughter. How different it is for many. So easy to forget as we live our day to day. But today, especially, we remember.

Happy Birthday, Selena!

2009-09-04T02:19:00.000-07:00

Selena.

You are turning three today, and we can hardly believe it!

This year, you have grown like a weed. It has been hard to keep you in dresses and pants because you have gotten so tall. Even though you are growing and changing week by week, you still have your beautiful smile and lovely eyes.

Every day, Daddy and I feel so blessed to have you. We love your songs, dances, and leaping hugs. We love you.

This year you have started to retain what you learn in Sunday School. We enjoy hearing about your lessons, detailed to the point that you tell us when Mrs. Reuther turns the page! We are delighted as you tell us how Paul was in a basket, and about King "Cadnezzar."

You are still a little bookworm, rapidly devouring our library books, and the books mama gets to review. You love to color, and will spend an hour sitting and carefully trying to stay in the lines.

You've come out of your shell. We have watched you blossom from a very shy girl, to someone who loves having guests! You talk to random people in the store, and make friends wherever you go. You even charmed the people at Dunkin Donuts into giving us more free donuts than we could eat! You played soccer, went to VBS, had a couple sleepovers at PopPop, Nanna's and Auntie Nee's, and even ask to ride with them to and from church. You love to go out with Daddy, happily skipping out the door holding his hand.

We've watched you become a sister to your precious Shae Shae. Loving her came naturally to you, and you opened your heart, and room to your sister. You're learning to share your toys too. You are always making sure that we are taking good care of her. We really couldn't ask for more. Yesterday was the first time that you and Shana were able to walk together holding hands. How exciting for you!

You've started to display a helpful spirit that mama is so happy to see. You will offer to help with anything at anytime, and you will stay until the job is finished. You also have been "making breakfast" out of play food for mama and Shana each morning during your quiet time in your room. It is so interesting to see how you choose to spend your hour alone each day, and you make some excellent choices.

You sing your Bible songs loudly in the store when we go out, and you love to learn hymns. You've started to pray for our meals too, and to memorize Scripture. We pray that this will continue, and that you will love Jesus with all of your heart.

Mama loves reading to you, teaching you, and snuggling under blankets with you. I love singing in the car with you. Your imagination is astounding, and we've started making up bedtime stories together. Sometimes, Shana wakes up just to listen to us. You are a great companion, making it fun to shop and to have girl nights when Daddy is late coming home. We already talk nonstop to each other all day long.

Lena, I love you so very much, and forever. God has abundantly blessed all of us. You've made my heart sing. You've made me love being a mama.

Happy Three.

Mama

Kids Need …

2009-08-28T13:06:00.001-07:00

Awesome Video!

www.ThumbuddySpecial.com

Your child is truly Thumbuddy Special!

Share this video with your friends.

Preschool Plans

2009-08-26T05:01:00.000-07:00

I have been a terrible blogger this summer, both in posting and in keeping up with other's blogs. I keep intending to write, but then there are so many things to do! I usually settle in with the cold weather, and that is just around the corner.

I can't tell you how I'm feeling about my two girls turning three and one. I am excited that they are growing up, but really, how did that happen? Lena is doing so many things, getting so independent and losing her shyness. My little Shana is walking ... walking. Every night I walk into the girl's room, look at the two tousled heads on their beds, and thank God for His abundant blessings to us.

So we are almost ready for preschool. Lena will be three next week, and I've told her that we'll start school when she turns three. Almost every day, she spins around in a circle as quickly as she can, "Mommy, I'm turning three!"

September is our month for apples. Each month will have a different theme.

Our Bible verse for the month: Proverbs 25:11 "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver."

Poem: "Apples big, apples small. Guess what? I like them all!"

Song: "Here we go round the apple tree, the apple tree, the apple tree. Here we go round the apple tree -- on a frosty morning." Here we ... climb the ladder, pick the apples, wash the apples, peel the apples, cook the apples."

Books: The Seasons of Arnold's Apple Tree - Gail Gibbons
Apple Picking Time -- Michele B. Slawson
Johnny Appleseed --Steven Kellogg
How Do Apples Grow? -- Betsy Maestro

Field Trip: Apple picking at a farm nearby

Concepts:
Calendar Concepts
Bible: "A Bible Alphabet" along with "A Bible Alphabet Activity Book" by Alison BrownSequence (first, second, third)
Review Colors
Reading Comprehension
Sorting
Matching
Review Same and Different
Review letter sounds
Hooked on Phonics

So that's our September! I'll be back next weekend with Lena's birthday letter. Hope you are all well and that your summers have been wonderful. I'll be catching up on all of your blogs soon!

See.Taste.Hear.Touch.Smell.

2009-07-29T13:48:00.000-07:00

It is 4:49pm.
Wednesday afternoon.

I SEE
One curly headed girl playing "tea" with Mommy's teapot and a sugar bowl.
One precious baby drinking from her bottle while watching every move of her big sister.
A storm brewing outside. A darkening sky.
The flicker of a candle on our dining room table.
Crayon marks on a white toy box.

I TASTE
White chocolate chips melting on my tongue.

I HEAR
A little pretender murmuring to herself as she plays.
The rumblings of thunder.
The crock pot lid as the air pressure from the bubbling cheesy macaroni lifts the lid.
The subtle tapping sounds of my fingers against the keys.

I TOUCH (feel)
The warmth of the laptop on my lap.
Happy and content.
The beginnings of hunger. Glad that dinner is coming soon.

I SMELL
Macaroni and cheese.
The scent of Yankee Home Sweet Home.

And it is a home sweet home ...

Sisters

2009-07-20T19:38:00.000-07:00

We've painted and hammered and nailed and arranged. The two sisters are sharing a room. Last week we heard them giggling together, playing, when they should have been asleep. Lena was reading out loud to a bouncing and giggling Shana. Their delighted screams brought a smile to my face even though I tried to be stern as I said, "WHAT is going on in here?"

Secretly I was delighted. Because I want them to love each other forever and always.

Shana is so adoring of her sister that she will.not.leave.her.alone. Poor Selena has to do her puzzles on high surfaces and read her books on the couch so that her precious things won't be ruined. She knows that her hair will get pulled constantly, and that her sister will drool on her face giving kisses.

Shana has to put up with Lena following her around with a blanket trying to "cuddle." Shana does not have time for this pasttime, and her older sis will not take a hint! She has been awakened multiple times by a too loud noise, or a sudden opening of the door.

Mama is loving this.

Some Pictures from our Vacation

2009-07-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

So we are homey home again. And it is nice to be home, but vacation was so great with some wonderful memories that we'll treasure!

Here are some of them ...

Our family with a sleeping Lena in Washington D.C.

Lena in her very own room, with her very own stuffed animals.

The girls in D.C. at the National Zoo.

This is the scene that we got to view every day from the front porch of the house. It was a wonderful place to sit and relax or have devotions.

The Naval Academy (neesie and I)

We got to cook a few really yummy delicious meals. And I love cooking in vacation house kitchens!

Cuddle times

More views.

And some memories that I will treasure that aren't pictured?

* My man and I got to sneak out for a Starbucks date.

*The giggle fest that Lena had with me, mom and Neesie in her bedroom and ours! She actually did this twice where she dragged us into the same room, held us captive, and bounced on the bed and on top of all of us.

* Neesie and I gave each other massages every night. It was wonderful. And we painted each other's toenails.

*Seeing Lena on the teacups when we went to Adventure Park USA! She was thrilled beyond imagining!

And traveling with little ones? Umm, we are used to it. But you'll have to ask my parents and sister how they felt! ;-)

There's always ...

2009-06-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

On a day when I feel pulled in too many directions,

THERE'S ALWAYS a moment of sheer joy, like when Shana said "mama" for the first time.

On a day when too much fruit caused some not-so-pleasant diapers and an accident which in turn caused some not-so-pleasant laundry and a few unwelcome interruptions,

THERE'S ALWAYS a tasty treat, like a warmed up chocolate chip cookie with ice cream on top to savor to celebrate getting through the day.

On a day when I feel like all I am doing is correcting, and wondering if I will see fruit anytime soon,

THERE'S ALWAYS a thankful moment, like when Selena recites what she learned in devotions the night before with a smile.

On a day when the to-do list is longer then hours in a day, and I am still folding laundry at almost 11pm because that is simply what I must do,

THERE'S ALWAYS a night where I get more sleep then I need, and I wake up feeling refreshed and eager to start a new day.

And in that day, there is sure to be a hot, flavorful cup of coffee, some sticky hugs and kisses, lessons given and learned, time with my Heavenly Father, quiet time for just me and my husband, long reading times with my daughter, ponytails to tie, and nonstop chatter!

On a week like the past one, THERE'S a anticipated family vacation coming up in THREE DAYS!!

I'll be back, Lord willing, with pictures when we return.

P.S. THERE'S ALWAYS a verse like this one:
Isaiah 40:31
"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

2009-06-10T16:29:00.000-07:00

If you aren't hearing from me much around here, I may be busy loving on my family! Lena is "reading" to her little sister in this picture, but I don't think Shana is listening...

Amusing Moments

2009-05-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

What amusing moments have you had with your kids? We went to ShopRite a couple of days ago, and I decided (bright idea, Bev!) to let Lena ride in one of those huge car attachment thingies. Lena loves to go grocery shopping with me, and I love taking her, and Shana just has to come because she has no choice!

Miss Shana is now almost 8 months old, and she took her first assisted steps this week. By assisted, I mean that she was clinging for dear life onto a rolling push toy. She seemed a little frightened, but that could have been because her mommy was screaming, "you're WALKING Shana, you're WALKING!" Referring to myself in the third person makes this slightly less embarassing.

Anyway, I digress. Grocery store, right.

Lena was excited to ride in the car. She never gets to because, they are generally disgusting and grody looking, and also because I am a woman of habit. If I "always" do something, I continue to do it ad nauseum. Also, I have chronic hip pain, and I am very careful not to trigger it.

I decided to think outside the box for a change, and saw a relatively clean car for Lena to ride in. She was SO excited. I might add that I couldn't even get the cart out of the parking lot without running to the front side and tugging it from the front!

Anyone within 6 feet of us, gave us wide berth for passing. A couple of amused men said "whoa!"

Grandmotherly women said, "It is hard with young ones, hang in there!"

I must say, I wasn't feeling sorry for myself. I was laughing my way through the store. Lena was turning her steering wheel and saying "Beep, beep - excuse me!" Shana was chuckling everytime I crashed into something.

"Careful, Mommy!" shouted Lena as she braced herself for each crash. "Don't forget green grapes," she added.

I don't think I'll try this again. Lena missed out on her favorite part of shopping: helping me put food on the belt. I missed out on her help entertaining Shana. I might add that I couldn't even get out of the checkout lane. The store manager had to pull while I pushed. It was very amusing.

Any similar experiences to share? Or have you seen a mom like me?

Book Giveaway

2009-05-18T00:11:00.000-07:00

Christian Children's Book Review is hosting a giveaway starting today (Monday). Over 10 titles will be given away. You can read the giveaway post by clicking on the banner!

Goal Check

2009-05-12T17:17:00.000-07:00

goals

In January, I posted a list of some goals that I had for the next 6 months.

Here's how I'm doing - trust me, this is humbling. Let me start by saying that it would have been better if I had even consistently looked at my list.

Continue to do preschool at least 3 times a week with Selena: This I've definitely kept up with. Last week, Lena came down with croup so we didn't have preschool and Shae just came down with it last night, so we may be missing most of this week as well.

Be more organized when it comes to our office: Not doing well at all with this. I think I kept very organized for about three months, but then went through a bout of hip pain and just. gave. up.

It isn't too bad though! I just need to go through and sort some papers, and we'll be neat again in there. The problem with the office is that when entering our house, it is the first room you'll pass! If the window is open, and it often is during this season, you can see it from outside.

Get back to menu planning: Yes - doing this, and it is such a help financially and mentally!

Pack lunches for hubby 4 times a week: Yes, I'm doing this. We're also eating healthier, and drinking loads of water lately. We'd gotten into quite a soda habit, and now I don't crave it at dinner time anymore.

Continue Shana's nighttime sleep training (she now sleeps from 8:30 or 9pm to 4:00 - 5:00 and then back to sleep for two hours): Shana is doing pretty well, but it has been a real training experience. She now goes to bed 6:30-6:45 pm, and on a good night, she'll sleep until 5:00-5:30. Right now, the poor darling is next to me in the swing sleeping with the humidifier on because she can't breathe when she is flat. Having a baby with croup is so scary. I was holding her last night in the bathroom with the shower on full blast crying into her hair because she was struggling to take a breath.

Get the girls to sleep in the same room: We're getting there. Before they were sick, they spent some nights together and it went relatively well.

Get Lena completely potty trained (she wears underwear for half a day now): Almost there, almost there.

Scripture memorization (for myself!): I'm ashamed to say that I have neglected this goal for myself. I have been focusing on it more for Lena. Back on track, Beverly!!

Restart my prayer journal and keep it up!! I've been jotting prayer requests down and definitely remembering to pray for them. I need to get an actual journal that I can record the requests in, but I've been doing pretty well with this goal.

Ok, I don't feel too badly after going through this list. There are some things that I really need to work on, but generally we're getting there. How are you doing with your to-do items?

2009-04-20T04:24:00.000-07:00

When Shana is a "big girl," and able to do more for herself, I'll want to remember what it was like to hear her babbling on the monitor for me to come get her from her crib.

I'll want to remember the dinner out that we had when she spit up on me about five times, drenching me thoroughly. When Selena is a "big girl," and doesn't need Mommy so much, I'll want to remember the nights when I returned to her room a second time and she would say, "Mommy I love you sooo much - can you just hug me for a little while?"

I'll want to remember how she loved socks, applesauce, and her Bible CD from Uncle Khuram and Aunt Charissa, memorizing every song and blessing her daddy and mommy with the singing of them.

When Shana is running and jumping and playing games like a pro, I'll want to remember when I could hold her close and rock her in our glider.

I'll want to remember when her whole face would light up at the sight of Daddy, Mommy and sister.

When Selena has real friendships and it isn't just Mommy, Lena, and Shana anymore, I'll want to remember the mornings we did preschool while Shae grabbed at Lena's papers. I'll want to remember the hours of reading Little Bear books, and building castles for her horsies.

The giggles and the messes, and the times I let her stand on her little white stool and help me cook.

When the girls are old enough to sit still, I'll want to remember how we could never get a decent picture.

Because they are getting to be big girls so fast. Because they are doing more for themselves and depending less on me, I'll want to remember everything and never ever forget how wondrously tiring and fulfilling these days are.

Today at our House

2009-04-16T06:24:00.000-07:00

So what is going on at our house today?

Outside, our daffodils are nodding their yellow heads to the beat of the breeze. The sun has come out with fervor, blessing us with warmth and light.

We are on "spring break" with preschool, mainly because I need time to plan what Selena will be learning next. I just got some phonics flashcards and am not thrilled with them. I'm currently scouring the web, and other resources for ideas.

Potty training has us somewhat stumped. And yes, I am the girl who once taught preschool and basically potty trained fourteen kids at once. Sigh. Lena is almost there if she could get past her fear of going - you know what - in the potty each day. If we could get past this obstacle, we'd pretty much be there. Any ideas?

I potted a tomato plant and basil plant with Selena's help, and they are growing at a rapid rate. I may add a couple more things this weekend - we'll see.

Today we went to visit Daddy at work, and we went to the library. Lena took all of her "new" books into her room, but fell asleep before she could read them!

Lena is learning many lessons this week. Shana has started to reach for and grab all of her toys, and knock over her blocks when she lines them up or stacks them. We've been able to talk about sharing often, and I couldn't be happier that these teachable moments are presenting themselves.

After the girls get up from their nap, we'll probably read for a while, and then have a girly dinner since Daddy will be at a dinner meeting. Our girly dinner tonight will be macaroni and cheese with salad, and strawberry ice cream for dessert.

After the girls go to bed, I am going to get my fuzzy blue blanket, heat up my rice bag, and watch Cranford until my sweetie gets home!

SO ... this post turned out to be totally boring! Hope you are all well. Hugs from our house to yours.

Shana is 6 Months Old!

2009-04-10T04:48:00.000-07:00

So when did my baby get to be so old? Our little Shana. Ready to crawl, full of joy, jumping bean, Shae Shae. Her chubby little fingers have wrapped themselves around our hearts.

The girls hold hands and snuggle every morning when they wake. Lena and I are drowsy while Shana is bright eyed and all smiles. This morning, Selena asked me if Shae Shae could stay with us. Of course she can, she's your sister, I said. She lives with us, she's a part of our family.

Things I adore about Shana:

Her absolutely totally joyous smile - it brings happiness to all of us

Her independence

Her sticky uppy hair which is wildly crazy in the morning

Her little grabby hands that are always reaching for something (right now it is her sister's hair)

Her fake cough

Her slobbery kisses

Her LOUD voice

Her rare cuddly times when she just lets me snuggle her up to my face and rock her

Her expressive eyebrows which are usually up in the air

Her eyes - they are her daddy's

Once again I am in awe of God's provision and blessing in giving her to us, just as he blessed us with her sister. We love you so much, Shae Shae.

The Joy of Reading

2009-04-08T16:50:00.000-07:00

Thomas Jefferson said "I cannot live without books." I so understand this quote! While I could technically live without books, I can't imagine doing so.

We recently went to the mall together and I found a wonderful book sale. I was excitedly looking through the preschool books deciding what I was going to buy, when I saw a lady dragging her son past the book table. "Books are overrated," she said loudly as she propelled her son forward.

I looked at my husband, barely able to contain my irritation.

I'm usually reading about 4 books at a time, minimum. Lena is definitely following in Mommy's footsteps. In fact, we usually have to go into Lena's room before we go to bed and remove about 8-10 books from her bed. She carefully arranges them on her bookshelf, separating Shana's books from her own. If one is missing, we have to scour the house until we find it. She mourns over a ripped page or crayon mark in a library book. "A little kid did this," she always says sadly.

Monday, we started phonics flashcards with her, and I can't tell you how excited I am! It's going to be wonderful when she can read her little sister a book.

Ever Striving

2009-03-30T05:52:00.000-07:00

How thankful I am that we have a God who is just, but merciful as well. Being a wife and mom has made me more aware of where I am lacking and how I need to keep striving.

I think the hardest thing for me right now is getting up early. I so long to be like the Proverbs 31 woman who "rises while it is yet night." I have read some of your blogs and know that many of you are doing so well with this! If you are either doing well in this area, or struggling some like I am, I would love to hear from you!!

Here's our evening to morning routine:

7 PM: The girls now go to bed at the same time, Lena sometimes slightly later then Shae. Lena so looks forward to her time with Daddy, and talks about it off and on throughout the day. After dinner and devotions, the two of them usually have playtime. I clean up the kitchen, make lunch for the next day and make a pot of decaf coffee. Shae and I then have a few moments to relax, cuddle (which she doesn't really like to do too much unless she's sleepy), and I give her her last feeding.

7:30PM-10:30PM:When the girls are safely in bed, I look forward to my time with my husband! We talk, drink a cup of decaf, take care of household business, and watch a movie at times. In the summer, we are sometimes outside talking to the neighbors. I'm telling you ladies, when I don't get this time, I miss it soooo much.

I guess all of this is to say that I don't really want to go to bed any earlier.

Anywhere from 4:30-5:30am: Shana wants to eat - she'll go back to sleep until about 6:30.

6:15 ish AM: Husband is up, I am usually struggling to even want to open my eyes. What I wish I did was get up to make him a hot breakfast with a bright smile and happy inside!

He rarely gets a hot breakfast during the week if he leaves before 7am - I will sometimes make something the night before, but have fallen off the path with this too!!

7:30AM: If husband is still home, we eat breakfast together, but if not, I am up with the girls to start our day.

By the way, I do get quiet time with the Lord! Lena has quiet reading time at 8:30-9:30 in her room. Shana naps at the same time. So I usually have an hour to myself in the morning.

I am NOT a morning person, friends. I am perfectly happy after I down that first cup of coffee, but before that, I am a shell of my real self! Any ideas? I want to do better with this.

Husband and Shana are ever so happy in the morning. They smile and laugh to welcome the day. Lena and I are ve-ry quiet for an hour or so.

Also, I'm looking for recipes for make ahead breakfasts. I may be a little delirious in the morning, but I am perfectly able to turn my oven on and warm something up!

just stopping in to say ...

2009-03-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

... we are well - will update soon.

Also, I'd like to say that we are having a giveaway at my other blog, The Girl Inside! It ends Friday, so if you know any young women, please let them know about it.

I try not to do too much "advertising" on this blog, but I've joined my mom in her business, and we are having a Spring Sale - also we have a bimonthly newsletter and activities for children on our website. And that's all I'll say about that ;-)

A real post is forthcoming ...

The Ultimate Blog Party 2009!!

2009-03-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

This type of party is perfect for a stay at home mom who is preschooling, potty training, and bloggin' lovin.' Won't you join me for a cup of coffee or tea, and some homemade cinnamon buns?

Welcome to The High Calling! My name is Beverly and I am a wife, and mommy to two. I've been blogging for about three years now. I love to blog because I have made so many real Christian relationships in this sharing, loving, uplifting community

I am so thankful that I've had the privilege of tapping into the world of blogging. Whether I need a recipe, a hymn, some advice, or a good laugh - I go to my list of links and know I'll find something.

Oh! Let me introduce you to my family. There's my husband, a true gift from God to me. He's my best friend, and he makes me laugh.

We have two princesses, Selena Anne (2) and Shana Elizabeth (5 months). Our girls have already brought us so much joy. We pray that we will raise them to God's glory.

I've already told you why I blog, but what do I blog about? Pretty much the things I love. My Savior, my husband, my children, and my home. I also have two other blogs that I share with other marvelous women: The Christian Children's Book Review, and The Girl Inside.

What am I doing when I'm not blogging? You may catch me praying for grace to last the day, working on my home business that I share with my mom, reading, teaching preschool to my oldest, or singing to my sweet baby.

Thanks for stopping by!! Please leave a comment so that I can visit you and meet you too!! I intend to visit many blogs and comment and basically PAR-TAY all week!

Did I mention there are giveaways?!!! There were so many wonderful choices, that it was hard to pick, but I think my top three choices would be #89 - the $100 gift card to Home Goods, donated by Home Goods, #58 - the Kitchen Aid Artisan Mixer, donated by Moms Who Think, and #7 - the Ergo Baby Carrier, donated by A Giveaway Addicted Mommy. Other choices would be numbers 19, 21, 22, 41, 45, 87 and 15! Thanks everyone!

Family

2009-03-16T19:16:00.000-07:00

"O God beyond all praising,

we worship you today

and sing the love amazing

that songs cannot repay;

for we can only wonder

at every gift you send,

at blessings without number

and mercies without end:

we lift our hearts before you

and wait upon your word,

we honor and adore you,

our great and mighty Lord."'

from O God Beyond All Praising

Hello (briefly)

2009-03-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

Just a moment available to stop in to say hello. Thank you for all of your comments and encouragement regarding my last post. I guess I didn't realized how discouraged I sounded until I was blessed by all of your words. How thankful I am for this mode of friendship. And I am truly thankful for my children who keep me tired, but who are growing too quickly. I wouldn't have it any other way, yes? Thank you for the reminder that one day I will wistfully look back on these days.

We are busy, but not too busy to appreciate the feel of baby hands touching our faces, and delighted squeals of a little girl chasing a paper airplane made by Daddy.

We are happy, but not too happy to forget that our times are in His hands. We can take nothing for granted.

We've been sick, but not too sick to enjoy family cuddles under a blanket with LOTS of library books.

We've been cozy and enjoying snow outside, but not too cozy to hope that spring arrives soon.

My laptop crashed last week and is still out of commission. When it (hopefully) returns, I'll be able to keep up with all of you a lot better. Love.

Sweet Sleep

2009-02-19T16:45:00.000-08:00

It was nighttime in our household. The only sounds that could be heard were the swishing of the dishwasher downstairs, Pachelbel's canon coming from Shana's temporary room and piano classics from Lena's room. I sleep with two monitors on my nightstand so that I can hear both of my babies when they call.

To give a little background, lately sleep has eluded me. Shana had been sleeping from 8-5 with no wakeups for a while. Lately, however, she had been waking multiple times throughout the night. I didn't feed her, but would put the pacifier in her mouth without saying a word to her. Then, I would rush back to the warmth of my bed, sinking into the deliciousness of our mattress. Just as I would drift into sleep, I'd hear her again. Even if I didn't respond until she fell back to sleep, I would find myself awake -- sometimes for hours during the night. This went on for a couple of weeks and I was exhausted.

But back to the story ...

This particular night, I was so tired as I went to bed. In fact, I had struggled with a migraine two nights before just from the exhaustion. And that night I started to come down with a cold. But I noticed that Shana had started to sleep through the night again - sporadically, but it was a start. And the times she woke, she would murmur a bit and go right back to sleep.

Wonderful, satisfying, restful sleep. Thank you, Lord. Sigh.

A high pitched, shrill cry pierced the softness of my dreams and I started in my sleep. Which girl was it, I thought sleepily looking at my pair of monitors. It was Lena. My blind -as- a -bat eyes squinted at the clock which read 3:30am. I threw back the covers and jumped out of bed (lately having perfected this into one fluid motion).

Lena is my dependable 12 - 13 hour a night sleeper. But the one night that I really needed it, here she was crying about something having to do with going potty and she wasn't calming down. I felt something akin to hysteria rising within and took some deep breaths. I was launching into a long dissertation of how she had awakened me and I was really tired and couldshepleasegobacktosleep?!!

The only response I got was more crying (she had wet her diaper and was upset that she hadn't gone in the potty), and I don't blame her for it. I can only imagine myself with bloodshot eyes and hair standing on end rambling to my two year old about how I was so upset that she had awakened me when her sister was peacefully sleeping next door.

Daddy woke up, so I must have been pretty loud. He could sleep through a tornado. He guided Lena into bed and waited while I prayed with her. He guided me into bed, speaking to me in soothing tones and hugging me until I was able to stop rambling about how I thought I would never get any sleep, and if it wasn't one girl it was another. I rambled about how we had a drs appt for Shana the next day and that now since Lena had been up at night, she would be tired and grumpy. My poor husband.

The next day he was still sympathetic and restructured his busy morning so that I could drop off Lena at his office while I took Shae to the doctor. I am so thankful for him.

I am also thankful that we are seeing the light of day (no pun intended) with this whole sleeping thing. Shana is turning back into my 8-5 sleeper slowly but surely. I knew we'd get there!!

Love is in the air ...

2009-02-11T17:17:00.000-08:00

Sisters ...

Baby love ...

My three favorite smiles in the entire world ...

Other things I'm loving ...

God's continued provision every day

Bear hugs from a toddler

Baby snuggles from my 4 month old

An overnight Valentine's Day trip coming up with all four of us

Late night talks with my husband

Family devotions with an inquisitive 2 year old

Hearing my toddler recite simple Scripture verses

Meaningful time with likeminded friends

Watching my family love my children

So to all of you, Happy Valentine's Day.

School Days

2009-01-22T19:02:00.000-08:00

These are quiet times for our little family. We have been sick, and consequently housebound a lot. I've been in bed all day, only managing to dress and feed the girls. Lena had to be content to sit next to me in bed, coloring with me and watching episodes of Little Bear!

Our girls are growing by leaps and bounds. I've been doing preschool with Lena in the mornings. She looks forward to these times so much! We usually begin with saying "Good Morning" to each other and practicing writing her name and the date. We do dot to dot and number pages. She has to sit with her hands folded at her little desk, and wait for commands from me. We move to the floor to do puzzles, practicing each letter and its sound, and practice sounding out simple words. We sing hymns, read a story, and she is working on short verse Scripture memorization.

I've realized how very much I enjoy teaching her. It has been a very special time for the two of us each morning, and I pray it will benefit her emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. Shana sometimes joins us during our sessions and spends time in the crib "playing."

Shana watches her big sister's every move with wide eyes and her most loving smile. Selena is "little mommy," telling me what she thinks Shana needs or wants. She has started taking Shae's face in between her two little hands and kissing her often during the day.

Goals for the next six months:

Continue to do preschool at least 3 times a week with Selena

Be more organized when it comes to our office

Get back to menu planning

Pack lunches for hubby 4 times a week

Continue Shana's nighttime sleep training (she now sleeps from 8:30 or 9pm to 4:00 - 5:00 and then back to sleep for two hours)

Get the girls to sleep in the same room

Get Lena completely potty trained (she wears underwear for half a day now)

Scripture memorization (for myself!)

Restart my prayer journal and keep it up!!

I know I haven't posted very often, but I have been very busy just keeping things together in our home. I do think of all of you, and will make my rounds very soon! Off to go take some Advil for this fever.

Book Giveaway

2009-01-08T09:23:00.000-08:00

We are hosting a book giveaway at the Christian Children's Book Review!! Go check it out ...

2008-12-24T08:44:00.000-08:00

" And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, and shalt call His Name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the LORD God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David" (Luke 1:30-32).

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Christmas Cookie Fun

2008-12-22T08:21:00.000-08:00

Baking with Mommy is so much fun!

We danced around the kitchen singing, "Ta-daa!"

Lena was amazed.
"Mommy, two rollers!"

Frequent breaks to kiss baby Shae Shae were taken

All ready to paint the cookies with icing!

Finished product to serve to Daddy. I think my little helper may have taken a couple of bites!

A Note to Self - don't do this again.

2008-12-18T19:12:00.000-08:00

Monday was a wonderful day. I went out with my two girls. We had a wonderful shopping trip and it was easy. I got really confident. Shopping with a toddler and an infant? Ha! No big deal. I decided to venture out again the next day. Well, after my outing on Tuesday that rivals even this one, I've learned my lesson.

On the docket Tuesday:

1. Go to bank

2. Go to Kohls - Christmas shopping that really needed to be done!

3. Go to Shana's dr appointment at 12 noon

4. Have as wonderful a trip as we did the day before.

I didn't mention that an ice storm was forecasted, but the meterologists on the news cheerfully told me that the storm wouldn't start until 3pm.

Item one on the list was checked off with no problem at all. Item two was more of a problem. We got out of the car, Shana in the stroller and Lena walking. Kohls was packed - we had to park really far away. I should have gone home at that moment, but I felt like I had to get the shopping done.

It also was raining lightly, so I picked Lena up and pushed the stroller with my other hand. We made it into the store and my Lena girl was FREE! She is not used to just being able to walk in a store. Since Shae can't sit up on her own yet, the double strollers that Kohls provides won't work for us.

Shana was wide awake and grumpy. Lena was happily prepared to run around the store like a newly released captive.

I knelt to her level and made her focus on me as I told her that she had to stay with Mommy and that I needed her to obey me right away when I told her to do something.

Her joy was dampened somewhat but I think she still had high hopes for the trip.

So we rolled along as I shopped (or tried to), talked Lena through the store and away from all of the interesting displays (at one point she was hugging a mannequin), and constantly rolled the carriage back and forth to keep Shae from crying. Finally, I decided I had had enough!

So I had Lena on foot, grumpy Shae in the stroller, a heavy bag of purchases, and my purse. We had to wait for a long time in line with a lot of grumpy fellow shoppers. I finally managed to jiggle Shana to sleep.

The grumpy cashier looked at me as if I had 10 heads. Maybe I did at that point, all I know is that I needed 10 arms. Lena was flashing smiles at him, trying to get attention, but he just gave her a blank stare. As we were preparing to leave, Lena couldn't get the zipper to her jacket up and told me that her jacket was "broken." Next thing I knew, she was crying about her jacket, and Shana was crying too. I bent down to pick her up and dropped everything I was holding. Help!!! I departed the store as everyone stared at me and no one offered to even hold the door.

We went out in the rain and this time I was carrying Lena and the big Kohls bag while pushing Shana. I felt something in my back wrench.

At the dr, I was WAY early so I fed both girls in the car. Lena was ready for her nap and I was exhausted and I felt my back and sciatica acting up.

The dr's appointment went well except that Shae had to get vaccinations. Lena was prepared for this, but as Shae got more and more upset, Lena started to cry and hug her. "Don't cry, Shae Shae! Don't cry!"

After the dr's appt, I breathed a sigh of relief until I was ready to leave and saw the sheet of ice that had fallen while I was in the office. Let me tell you, it wasn't anywhere near 3 yet either.

An elderly couple was at the door, the man was in a wheelchair. I opened my mouth to say "Can I help you to your car," when I realized that there was no way that I could help them and that the lady was offering to help me. I did allow her to open the door for me. We slipped and slid to the car barely staying upright. We fishtailed on the way home too - it was not a fun experience.

I was soooo glad to get home. I vowed never ever to leave my house again. All three of us took a two hour nap after that!!

By the way, we did go out again yesterday and it went well -- but I learned that overconfidence doesn't pay. There are times when you just can't be supermom!

A Little of This and a Little of That

2008-12-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was full of lovely smells and tastes. We visited Mr. S's side of the family. Much time was spent in the kitchen talking, cooking and tasting. So enjoyable ...

tired after all the festivities

We've been "Christmasfying" our house, and having fun in the process. We got a "real" tree for the first time, which was fun for Lena. We made it a fun process, and stopped at Smokin' Lil's afterward to bring home some yummy Southern BBQ.

I wanted to let her help me trim the tree, but abandoned that idea after about ten minutes of too much fun! While she was upstairs snuggly wuggly in her chair watching Little Bear, I snuck into the girls room and put up their little tree. Ah - it does resemble Charlie Brown's Christmas tree, but it is special nonetheless. We weren't disappointed at Lena's reaction when she saw her special surprise. After kissing the tree and running around her room in delight, she pulled at Shana's sleeper, saying "Look baby Shae Shae, its for you!!"

We had a brunch at our house last weekend, and my sis-in-law gifted me with a couple of recipes from her never ending supply of cookbooks and magazines. I wanted to share this recipe with you ...

Upside-Down Banana-Walnut French Toast Recipe 1 hour 15 min prep

An ooey-gooey do-ahead (1-24 hours) egg bake that will knock your socks off.

SERVES 10

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted

1/4 cup corn syrup

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

3 medium bananas, sliced

1 loaf sliced unfrosted firm cinnamon-swirl bread

6 eggs

1 1/2 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions

1. Spray bottom and sides of a 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray or grease with shortening. In a large bowl, stir together first four (4) ingredients then gently stir in the bananas. Spoon this mixture into the baking dish.

2. Reserving heels of bread for another use (feed the birds, they love cinnamon bread) arrange 2 layers of bread on banana mixture, tearing bread to fit if needed.

3. In a medium-size bowl, beat eggs, milk and vanilla until well mixed. Pour over bread. Cover tightly and refrigerate at least 1 hour but no longer than 24 hours.

4. Heat oven to 325°. Uncover casserole and bake 45-50 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Serve portions upside-down, spooning sauce from bottom of dish over each serving.

We're still spending a lot of time at home. Shana has gotten sick twice already, and she is only 8 weeks old. It has been really cold too. We are finding plenty to do at home. Lately it has been a never ending round of tea parties. Lena, basket over her arm, cooks many delicacies that Shana and I are obligated to try.

happy Shae Shae

Shana is growing quickly and I have learned to cherish these times. I don't know when Lena grew so fast. I must have blinked -- so I'm keeping my eyes open this time!

Hope your home is full of love and warmth and wonderful memories this week ...

Knock Knock

2008-12-03T18:52:00.001-08:00

I have been very neglectful of all you dear people lately! So instead of a post from me, I'm using my time to visit at least some of you. Even though I haven't had too much time to say hello recently, I think of all of you often~

2008-11-25T18:33:00.000-08:00

Well, as Pooh would say, "It's a rather blustery day..."

After a day of wiping noses, kissing little faces, folding laundry, changing diapers, reading books, and rocking little ones, I had to go out to do some grocery shopping. I must admit that I was looking forward to "getting out," after two weeks of being mainly housebound. We've all been sick and it has been so cold.

It was nice to have some free time. But as I pulled into the driveway, I saw the lights burning in our little home and I wanted to be inside with my three special ones. I am so thankful that they are mine:

My ever-smiling, land surveying loving, best friend of a husband who is a wonderful father on top of it all.

My curly headed, mommy blow on my already cold soup because its too hot, cuddlebug of a oldest daughter who is turning out to be a great helper and big sister.

My round cheeked, wonderfully laid back, baby daughter, who has a firm grasp on all of our hearts.

All three - gifts from God to me.

This holiday weekend we are traveling to be with family and hopefully decorating for Christmas! Have a wonderful thanksgiving all!

A Myriad of Things .... and a few pictures to keep you happy!

2008-11-11T06:06:00.000-08:00

I am so glad to be able to post! It has been a long time, I know. I used to spend time blogging after Lena went to bed. Now, when Lena goes to bed, our evening hours are spent cuddling, tickling and keeping awake our little one month old!

Yes, there are definitely some scary moments when the two girls are together!!

I LOVE having two girls. Yes, there are times when I am so tired, I wonder if I will make it until naptime. There are times when I feel like all I am doing during the day is changing diapers. But that all pales in comparison with the joy I have in my heart with the addition of Shana.

spending time with Daddy

Lena and I are having so much fun introducing Shae Shae to all of our "traditions." We hold her hands together so she can thank God with us for Lena's food. We bring her onto the couch to snuggle under our red blanket and read with us. In the car, since the days and nights are colder, we now have two blankets. Each girl gets one, and Lena is especially thrilled by this.

Lena has more jobs around the house too. She has to straighten her room and throw away all the diapers that need to go into the trash. She holds the clean diapers while I am changing Shana. She has to walk more when we are out.

I have to admit, I haven't gone out by myself with the two girls too much yet. It seems a little daunting, but I'm sure I'll get there!

Napping is great! Shana takes three naps during the day. During nap number one, Lena and I eat breakfast together, and then Lena goes to her room for quiet reading time. I then get an hour to myself ;-) Nap number two is my favorite, because Lena naps and I nap too! During nap number three, I try to make dinner and we eat.

Nighttime is a little more challenging. She has skipped her 1:30am - 2:00 am feeding so often that I am pushing that a little bit more. However, Lena is right across the hall, and I don't want two girls awake. I'm hoping we can get her just eating once at night without too much fuss!

The housekeeping I've been able to accomplish is minimal! I am trying to keep it in perspective. In the morning, if I get the dishwasher emptied, and all three of us dressed I am happy. By afternoon, as long as the floors are vaccuumed, and dinner is cooked I am happy. By evening, if I have been coherent enough to talk to my hubby about his day, I am happy.

I have a question for moms with baby slings/carriers. I have the ultimate baby wrap, and have put Shae in it, but I am still scared to go completely hands free. She seems secure, but I don't know, her head just seems a little floppy in it. Does anyone have a sling that you just LOVE? Does anyone have the Moby wrap? Shopping season is coming, and I'd love to be able to push Lena in the stroller or cart while wearing Shana.

Ok - half of my quiet reading time hour is up ... love to you all. Mwah!!

Resting ... Trusting

2008-11-04T05:44:00.000-08:00

We are well and updates are forthcoming. Just wanting to rest and trust today in our ALL WISE and ALL KNOWING Father.

Proverbs 21:2 "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes."

Psalm 115:3 "But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases."

Isaiah 46:10 "Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, 'My counsel shall stand, And I will do all my pleasure.'"

Finding a Rhythm

2008-10-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

Our precious Shana was born just eleven days ago. This is my first week on my own, and I have to admit that I was apprehensive and nervous about being alone wth my two girls. Today went really well, and I am pretty sure that I can do this!

Having child number two is vastly different from my first experience! I am amazed at how much I can love Shana, when my love for Selena is so great. I am still in awe of the miracle of birth and that this sweet bundle was inside of me for nine months. I feel so much more peaceful and less worried about the little things. With Selena, I was worried about doing everything perfectly. Now I know that I can't. I am thankful to see the love that Lena has for her little sister, and I pray that it will always be so. This morning, as all three girls were in bed together, I thanked God for the two of them. I pray that God will save them both at early ages. I pray that we will always be close.

The biggest issue for me is the sleep deprivation that I'm experiencing right now. However, I know that this is only for a season. These moments will be gone all too soon! I can't say I'll be sorry when I have her sleeping through the night though!

So today I was able to get my girls dressed, keep them fed, take a nap while they both napped, make dinner, clean our bathroom, and do one load of laundry. I was also able to read to Lena for an hour. So as this week progresses, I will be slowly finding a rhythm and redoing our schedule.

Any tips or advice from any of you? Many of you have more then one child and have made this transition already. I'd love to hear from all of you!

Oh dear, Shana just anointed her daddy with spit up and he is calling for reinforcements!!

good bye all ....

Tackle it Tuesday - CLR Kitchen and Bath Cleaner

2008-10-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Now, I don't usually promote products on this blog, but the wonderful ladies at 5 minutes for Mom host a Tackle it Tuesday every week. I've never participated before, but for this week they partnered with CLR for a Kitchen and Bath Tackle!

To the left is the product I used. As you know, I just had a baby ten days ago, so I'm looking for easy, people.

Problem areas in my house that I had time to tackle:

Master bathroom shower door (soap scum): I sprayed the CLR on the door, waited a couple of minutes, and wiped with a towel. It definitely worked on the soap scum. My husband is going to be a happy man. He's been trying different products on that door for months!
Bathroom sink fixtures: May I say that CLR works wonderfully on stainless steel fixtures? It works especially well on that yucky, grimy, buildup around the edge of the faucet.
Grout on bottom of shower - especially in the corners: It didn't score a 10 here, but it did clean it nicely. It just didn't get it nice and white. I did read on the website, that a brush may need to be used, so maybe I'll do that next time.
Stove: Just sprayed and wiped! It was easy smeasy.

Kitchen Sink: Did I mention that CLR works wonderfully on stainless steel? It isn't that the other products I use don't clean the sink thoroughly. Its just that this is more of a two step process: spray and wipe. Oh - and if you let it settle for a couple of minutes before you wipe, it works better.

Another thing I like about this product is that it doesn't contain any ammonia or bleach. I've been pretty much using all natural stuff - so this is important to me.

I'm pretty impressed with this product - and I'd definitely buy it and recommend it to others. Overall, it gets an 8 out of 10 from me. That's pretty good, especially for someone picky like myself :-)

Love Is Bouncing off the Walls!

2008-10-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

In our house, love is bouncing off the walls! Shana Elizabeth is here, and we are so thankful for God's blessing to our family. We can't stop kissing and hugging our two girls.

Shana arrived Friday, October 10th after a very long labor of 20 hours. I had been to the doctor on Thursday, and I was 1 cm dilated. After my appointment, we all went out to eat, and had a great time. I was having contractions, but they weren't bad at all.

By 11pm I was definitely laboring, and we were timing my contractions on the computer. They were coming anywhere from 3-5 minutes apart. We called my parents to come and watch Selena at about 12:10 am. By this time, I was bending over my bed face down, breathing through each contraction.

I went to Lena's room to kiss her and breathe a soft prayer that the experience wouldn't be too hard on her. I told her "I love you," very quietly so as not to wake her.

We arrived at the hospital at 2ish, and began our really long labor experience. It was four times as long as my labor with Selena ... but no matter. It was all totally, completely, wonderfully worth it.

Shana Elizabeth

7lbs, 20 inches long

born 10-10-08 at 4:46pm

2008-10-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a lot of this lately ...

"I will sing to the Lord, for He has dealt bountifully with me." Ps 13:6

Autumn Musings

2008-09-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, we welcome October with open arms. This is a crucial season for our country, isn't it? We are in the midst of the turmoil of an election season, the fear of a volatile economy, and yet we can be at peace.

Why?

We as Christians can know that we have one constant in the middle of all the change that may come. Our God will never change.

Things I have been cherishing and enjoying ...

Hearing Daddy and Lena praying before bed.
Having daily devotions with Lena and watching her learn about God.
Watching Lena rush to help me get something that has fallen on the floor. What a helpful girl she is lately!
The anticipation of approaching labor. Feeling those sharp pains that I remember - the time is quickly approaching ...
Open windows with cool breezes that stir the curtains.
The strong hands of my husband - perfect for a back rub!
Starting some preschool activities with Lena - we sing songs, practice sitting at a desk, practice simple word recognition/reading, shapes and colors, and counting to twenty. We also do puzzles and building with blocks. I think I may be enjoying this even more then she is.
Blueberry cobbler coffee - sooooo yummy.
Doing Lena's hair and letting her play with mine!
Movie nights with my husband.
Having so much time to read lately.
Quiet. (I know this won't last too much longer)

Along with the cherished moments I have been enjoying, I have definitely been disappointed in myself at times lately. I have allowed myself to become too easily irritated over small issues -- things that simply do not matter in the grand scheme of things. When I realize that I have been bogged down in those day to day irritations I am thankful that His compassions fail not, and that He is faithful to His children. How grateful I am that we have a merciful God.

I Chronicles 29: 11-13 "Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name."

A little Update on Us

2008-09-15T17:43:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to stop in and give everyone a little update on our family. We are starting to get ready for the new member of our family.

For those of you who don't know me personally, I am a bit of a whirlwind at times! I give myself lists of self-imposed obligations and run around like a chicken with her head chopped off trying to fulfill them. Just this past weekend, I realized (ok - my husband helped me to realize) that we simply weren't going to get all of these things finished in the 4-6 weeks we have left.

We prioritized my lists, and I prayed a few times. I feel so much better now! I have calmed down, and I'm sleeping at night again.

Lena is busy helping Mommy fold little onesies and gowns and putting flowers on the wall of her room. We went and got wooden letters which I am painting, so both girls can have their names on the wall. She is also busy being a Lil' Kicker on her new soccer team.

Pardon the darkness of the video - all of the basement lights weren't on!

Daddy is studying, working, calming Mommy down, taking Lena to soccer, carrying baskets of laundry up and down the stairs and putting up shelves in the garage.

And - fall is almost here! I was so excited to put mums on our front step, take out my leaf decorations, and start stocking up on yummy delicious scented candles.

When we get a taste of a cool breeze, I feel so excited and happy inside. I know it is rather silly, but I just love this time of the year. It reminds me of such happy things: my engagement, wedding, and Selena's birth.

How are all of you? Sending love from my house to yours.

Selena - Two Years Old Tomorrow

2008-09-03T03:56:00.000-07:00

Dearest Lena,

I'm watching you draw crooked lines with your sidewalk chalk. You are singing - whoops! Daddy just swooped you up and is kissing you all over your face. And now, with nary a break in your song, you are returning to your artwork on the pavement.

This morning over a breakfast of toast and granola, you gravely informed me that you were two years old. Can you be growing up so fast?

You know, Daddy and I love you from the top of your tallest corkscrew curl to your sparkly pink toenails. At night sometimes we tiptoe into your room just to look at you. I often kiss you too much, and sometimes Daddy must warn me to stop or I'll wake you up.

You are so full of life and personality. Your favorite foods are pizza and hotdogs. You absolutely adore grapes and strawberries. You devour books and learn from them every week. You fill our house with music as you gaily run from end to end singing merrily.

Without you, we'd never marvel at the brightness of the moon, or at the vivid colors of a spinning pinwheel. You show us the world through your eyes each day. You love the moon, and your name means moonlight.

Each week, you become more and more independent at home, but you still get shy when there are a lot of people around. You like quietness and serenity. Even though you like quietness, you love to talk! You speak in paragraphs at a time, and fill our home with laughter.

As your Mommy, my favorite time with you is when we read together under our favorite maroon blanket. Your eyes are wide with the things I am saying. Sometimes you lean your head against my arm and burrow closer. When I hold you, your long legs hang down well below my waist, but you still fit perfectly in my arms.

This year will be one of change for you. I can't wait to see you grow and blossom. You are going to be a big sister. And you know? I can't think of a more perfect sister for our new little one. This will be new for us, and I'm excited as I know you are.

Daddy and Mommy's prayer for you is that you will know and love Jesus at a very young age. This is the most important thing that comes to our minds when we think about you. This is more important to us then anything else.

You are growing so quickly and each stage is special. Sometimes I want to freeze time so that I can snuggle you forever. But we can't live in the past or in the future! So I just want you to know that you are totally, completely, and extraordinarily special.

I. LOVE. YOU.

Happy Birthday tomorrow, my sweet princess.

Love,

Mommy

2008-08-18T17:23:00.000-07:00

We recently went to the Inner Harbor just for fun so I thought I would post some pictures of our little trip.

Selena loved the many fountains we encountered.

Daddy's big girl!

Big girls get big girl dinners too.

We had to take frequent rest stops for Mommy too.

Playing in the hotel room was fun!

We went to the Children's Museum.

We had circle time there.

Lena got to put on a raincoat and play with water!

More fun!

They had a minature diner too, where the kids could cook and serve their parents :-)

A very tired girl about an hour before ... our car accident.

Yes, we were hit on the passenger side of our car on the way home as we were traveling on a major highway. I am still thanking God that He spared us from any injury. The car struck us right next to where our precious girl sits, so we are so thankful. Our unborn treasure is doing ok too!

The Fire of Affliction

2008-08-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

For my dear friends:

We prayed so fervently that God would preserve your little one to you this time. It is so hard to even know how to feel, watching you and Mark go through this again. It hurts us to know that you are traveling through this pain, but we will not fear because we know Who is leading you. He can soothe when we cannot, and we know that He will not forsake you. You have been good parents to this little one, doing everything in your power to help him/her along. We love you very much.

"Every thing that may abide the fire, ye shall make it go through the fire, and it shall be clean." Numbers 31:23

"... will my 'good hope through grace' stand the test of such an ordeal? Will my 'joy and peace in believing' crumble into nothingness under the fierce heat of tribulation? Can the 'strong consolation' which God gives me disappear as a vapour when the flame of affliction touches it? Or, if I should lose my best and dearest treasures, can the hot furnace of bereavement burn up all my strength and comfort? ...

We can sing of His love when the heat is most vehement, and glorify him by proving that promise true, 'When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.' This is why the command is so frequently heard, thrilling through heart and life,'Ye shall make it go through the fire...'

- taken from Susannah Spurgeon's Free Grace and Dying Love

Can It Be?

2008-08-01T05:37:00.000-07:00

Can it be August already? I found myself dreaming of fall (my favorite season) last night while clearing up from dinner. Daddy and Lena went for a walk, and I was left alone. I lit a candle and enjoyed the intense quietness as I straightened up. The smell of the candle reminded me of those crisp, cool days that are soon to come.

But no! I don't want to live in the future because these days are too precious.

Clumsy me, bumbling and tripping around the house, the large grin of my husband when he looks at his two - no three! - girls, the beads of sweat on Lena's nose, blowing bubbles in the backyard ...

... meeting Daddy at a pizza place for lunch, Lena asking for "strawbears", our mouths stained with water ice, Lena misusing her pronouns, "Where is I Daddy?"

These are beautiful days that I don't want to forget. I want to capture them in my mind and be able to tell my children the stories of when they were young. Of course, we never know what the future holds, but that is all a part of His divine plan.

***

"Thank you so much Lord - for now."

*** For those of you who have known me from childhood - isn't this a typical "bev" face?

These Days Are Filled ...

2008-07-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

with ...

prayer and hope

reflecting on the sovereignty of God

working on VBS

enjoying "just Selena" time

organizing and planning

fun family fridays and saturdays

and dreaming of our new baby.

These are the things that have kept me from updating regularly. I just wanted to say a quick hello from my little home. I'm having some pregnancy associated sciatica again, so I'm trying to rest up for the weekend to come.

Much love to all of you.

At our house we are praying ...

2008-07-22T07:18:00.000-07:00

... for Mark and Beka. Pray with us?

Something to meditate on until I post again ...

2008-07-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

"If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water." John 4:10

O weary Man, footsore and sorrowful, sitting thus on the well, asking for a draught of water at the hands of a poor sinful woman -- you are my Lord and my Redeemer; I believe in you, I love you, I worship you!

Nearly two thousand years have passed since you spoke the sweet words which are now comforting my heart, yet with what power and solace, and blessing, do they come to me at this moment!

'If thou knewest.' Lord, you have told me who you are,you have in mercy revealed yourself to me, I know you to be that blessed 'gift of God' which alone can save and satisfy my soul. The depth and compass of heavenly love are manifested in you, and you have shown me, not my need only, but the sufficiency of your grace and power to meet it.

I am an empty sinner, you are a full Christ!

'Thou wouldest have asked.' This, too, O blessed One, you have taught me and enabled me to do; and my heart's constant cry, Lord give me this living water, is familiar to your listening ears! It is yourself I want; Lord, 'My soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land.'

Not your gifts, not your grace, nor even your glory, could satisfy the desire of a soul which you have made to long for yourself. You, the Giver of all other precious things, are yourself the choicest, the 'unspeakable' gift! Lord, into the thirst of my empty heart pour the full stream of your living love! Give me yourself, or I die!

And having asked, I believe you do give, for your own lips have said it, 'He would have given', and I whisper softly to myself the blessed words, 'Who loved ME and gave himself for ME,' realizing the sacred, overflowing joy of pardoned sin, and peace with God, filling and satisfying my soul.

So, dear Lord, my spirit, like a weary bird, folds her wings beside this sweet well-spring of comfort, creeps into this blessed 'cleft of the rock,' and is at rest.

-Susannah Spurgeon- from Free Grace and Dying Love

Ten Thankful Things on Tuesday

2008-07-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here in a comfy patio chair, while the wind plays with my ponytail. Selena is next to me in her sandbox, pretending to cook. She's quietly singing and talking to herself. A bee is traveling from flower to flower as I watch and smile. The birds are singing, and the sun is just ... perfect.

So yes, I am feeling thankful.

10. I'm thankful that we went grocery shopping today and that two very kind ladies went out of their way to help me when they saw me struggling with a very full and heavy shopping cart. It reminds me to always be willing to help.

9. I'm thankful that in this time of skyrocketing prices on food and other necessities, that our freezer and refrigerator are full. I never want to take this for granted. So many suffer.

8. I'm thankful for my hard working husband, who always comes home with a smile. I need to work on curbing my selfishness when he has to work late or far away. I am so thankful that he loves me unconditionally and doesn't complain when I ask him every night to rub my feet and back.

7. I'm thankful for my precious Selena, who is such a joy to us. She's becoming such a help to me. When I pull out the vacuum cleaner, she runs to pick up everything that is on the floor and places it on the couch until I'm finished! I'm thankful for baby "sisser," who wakes me up at night with her love taps.

6. I'm thankful for family. My family is so important to me, and they bring me joy. Just last week, my sister spent three days with us, and it was so nice. We miss her!

5. I'm thankful for the support of friends.

4. I'm thankful for yummy candles, delicious coffee creamer, and rich pasta sauce. Oh, and don't forget snuggly blankets, fat books, and our hymns of the faith. Oh - and strawberry frosted doughnuts (I have been promised this treat tonight)

3. I'm thankful that we have been getting closer to our neighbors lately. I hope we can be a witness to them!

2. I'm thankful that our garage door opener broke. Because we had to have a service call, we realized that our opener did not have any safety features, and have replaced it with one that does!

1. I am thankful that nothing, NOTHING, can separate me from Christ's love.

Homey Home

2008-06-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

No matter where she has been, Selena is always happy to come "homey home." When she talks about her extended family, she wants to know if they are "homey home." I love hearing her happy voice proclaiming that we are home as we turn onto our street.

A book I am reading, Walking with the Women of the Bible by Elizabeth George, says:

"A Christian home is earth's sweetest picture of heaven and a welcome relief in our stressed and weary society..."

We are in the process of organizing our little haven. I must admit, it has been humbling to watch my husband organizing the refrigerator and bedroom closet. I feel like these are things that I should have been on top of. But these are all learning experiences! I thank God that he is so willing to pitch in and help.

Yesterday, Daddy came home early from work. I felt so happy inside as I looked around our home. A thunderstorm was brewing outside, but inside, the flame of a candle danced merrily. As the wind whipped loudly around the house, a pot of salted water started to bubble on the stove. Our version of bolognese sauce was simmering, as the sounds of Lena and Daddy quoting Mary Poppins floated into the kitchen:

Daddy: "If you invest ...

Lena: "... your tuppence wisely in da bank!"

Together: "Safe! and! Sound!" (laughter from both parties)

I knew I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but Homey Home.

2008-06-14T11:14:00.000-07:00

Thanking God for fathers, all that they do, and all that they mean to us.

Some news ...

2008-06-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

We found out today that another princess is joining our family. I was completely wrong because I thought it was a boy! Mr. S thought it was a girl, and Lena insisted that she was having a "sisser."

Seeing our new little one on the screen made everything more real somehow. I came home and told Lena that her new baby was going to be a sister. She was at our house with Pop Pop, Nanna and Auntie Nee.

She looked at me and said "I apple?"

After she was happily munching on her apple, she was interested to see the picture of her new baby sister. She even gave it a kiss.

I just wanted to update those of you who hadn't heard. Have a blessed weekend!

Things I'm Lovin'

2008-05-29T04:37:00.000-07:00

About this new big girl bed thing:

1. Being able to kiss her goodnight before I go to bed.

2. Putting a little surprise pile of books at the foot of her bed so that she can read in bed after a nap.

3. Teaching her to straighten up her bed (we try anyway!)

4. Quiet reading time is now quiet room time, but it is even more wonderful now that she has a choice of things to do.

Things still on the burner for this summer:

1. Deciding whether or not to nix the pacifier before baby comes or let her still have it at night and naptime to get her through the rough patches. I'm thinking ahead to mommy - in - the - hospital times! Any advice??

2. We've been talking a lot about the potty. She goes occasionally, but I'd like to try to conquer this before there is an infant around.

Things that are status quo:

1. Our begonia is still living, and thriving!!

2. Spring cleaning is going to drift into summer :-)

3. Mr. S is doing a lot of organizing, and I'm sooooo thankful for his help.

4. Sciatica is on again, off again ... but we are doing well with it. Lena is helping me pick things up off of the floor so I don't have to bend over. She's so grown up now!

5. Mr. S and I have had such nice times together lately - whether it be cooking in our snug kitchen, talking until late in the night wrapped in blankets, or laughing until we feel sick. (If you know Mr. S well, you'll know that he loves to be funny, and his wife loves to laugh at him)! It has been really refreshing to me - and I'm thankful for it.

Just a brief update - hope everyone is well!!!!!

Just thinking about things ...

2008-05-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

Everyone is talking about the recent tragedy that has occured in the Chapman family. It has been in my thoughts so much. We don't know what may happen in the blink of an eye ...

May God give them the strength to bear it.

I'm turning off my sidebar music for a few days. In the quiet - just breathe a prayer with me. A prayer for comfort for a grieving family, and a prayer of thanksgiving for all God's mercies to each of us.

Before I went to bed on Thursday, I tiptoed into Lena's room and dropped to my knees beside her toddler bed. With my head on her pillow, I kissed her tiny curls goodnight. Each day is precious - a gift. Have a blessed Lord's Day and a wonderful holiday weekend.

She Did It! (follow up from last post)

2008-05-17T17:19:00.000-07:00

Well, it appears that it was that easy! Last night went beautifully, except for a little hiccup at 4:11am. I heard her cry out, and found her sitting on the floor next to her bed. Her night light had blown out, and it was pitch black in her room! So I replaced the night light, tucked her back in and didn't hear from her again until morning.

Naptime was lovely, and we took the crib down soon after.

I just can't believe we have gone from this ...

To this ...

Big Girl Bed

2008-05-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here in the dark in my living room. I hear hubby typing on the keyboard in the office. Upstairs, the strains of guitar music waft under Lena's bedroom door.

It can't be this easy.

We were able to find a white toddler bed, (the exact one I was looking for in the store, mind you), on Craig's List. We picked it up at a house about two miles away. Lena was with us, and she seemed excited when we told her that it was her new bed.

It has been in the garage for a week, and she says hi to it everytime we pass it.

"Lena new bed," she says decisively.

Tonight, Daddy brought the bed upstairs and we, (meaning mostly Daddy), put it together while Lena climbed all over us and sang loudly. I think she was actually perched on my head at one point.

I felt ambivalent as I took the mattress from her crib, changed the sheet, and watched Daddy place it in her new bed. What happened to that little infant who looked lost in the big expanse of crib?

So we prayed, kissed her goodnight, and stood outside her room for a few moments. Silence.

She's been in her big girl bed for 43 minutes now, and it just can't be this easy. I mean, this girl was seriously attached to her crib.

I can't wait to see how the rest of the night goes. I'll post an update in the next few days!

Updates

2008-05-12T13:12:00.000-07:00

What is going on at our house today...

What we are doing:

Lena: taking wooden letter blocks out of a basket and lining them up on the couch

talking and singing

spinning and singing

"helping" Mommy by taking clean clothes out of her drawers and putting them in a basket

"helping" Mommy by organizing the books on the bookshelf

quiet reading time

a comfy, cozy nap in "pitty pitty crib"

taking things out of her toybox and putting them back in

coloring

storytime (library books) with mama

stacking pegs and singing

playing with foam letters

Mommy: blogging and ironing (not simultaneously - I'm good but not that good!)

making dinner

changing towels and bed linens

putting clothes away

praying for Daddy to have a good day and to come home safely in the rain

dusting

folding clothes

starting a recipe notebook (Mothers' Day Gift)

taking a nice comfy nap with an ice pack on that pesky SI joint

missing Daddy

taking the clean clothes out of the luandry basket and putting them back in Lena's drawers

guiding Lena to help with placing all the books back on the bookshelf

giving Lena a bath

paying bills

cutting coupons and planning a grocery shopping excursion for tomorrow

mopping floor

stealing some moments to read

Daddy: in his office doing what land surveyor's do ( a lot, I assure you)

feeling tired and most likely, hungry

looking forward to seeing his favorite women (just a guess here!)

What we are reading:

Psalm 150 (Lena chiming in on "Praise the Lord!)

Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free - Nancy Leigh DeMoss

God's Handmaiden - Gilbert Morris

Walking With the Women of the Bible - Elizabeth George (another Mom's day gift)

We're Going on a Bear Hunt - Michael Rosen

What to Expect When Mommy's Having a Baby - Heidi Murkoff

Spot's Colors, Shapes and Numbers - Eric Hill

Noah's Ark - Jerry Pinkney

Who's Knees are These? - Jabari Asim

What we are watching:

Lena - The Letter Factory (unbelievably, no Mary Poppins today)

Mommy - Love's Unfolding Dream (I'm almost through all my ironing!)

The current fragrance in our home:

Vanilla Hazelnut

What's on the stove:

Mr. S still isn't able to eat anything too chewy, so tonight we are having Easy Shepherd's Pie.

What we are listening to:

Hide Em' In Your Heart - Steve Green

(but I think I'm entitled to at least a half hour of Il Divo at some point in the day!)

Classical Guitar for Lena's nite nite music

what's going on at your house???

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

I feel horrible for posting this so late, but click above to see all the awesome giveaways that 5 Minutes For Mom is hosting!!

Also, Hip Mama's Place is hosting a really neat giveaway. Check it out!!

A hodge podge of things ...

2008-05-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

One of the things I love about blogging is that when I am struggling with something, you are all there to encourage and point me to the Lord! Thank you so much for your comments on my previous post. I have read them several times over.

We are doing well! Lena is growing up so quickly that I hardly know what to think. We just got her a toddler bed, and I can't believe we are at this stage already.

She's starting to say things about how she feels too. "I sad." "I have fun." When she is hungry she says "I have dinner?" When she is tired, "I upstairs." When her hands are sticky, she says, "I a mess." It is so entertaining and gratifying to know what she is thinking and feeling. We are constantly laughing at her antics. She's inherited her daddy's love of a joke!

Last night, we put her to bed and said , "I love you," as we always do. As we were closing the door, a little voice said, "I wuv oo." It was so special!

She has a CD that she listens to when she has quiet reading time in her crib in the morning. One of the songs is "Ho ho ho hosanna, Ha ha hallelujah, He he he he saved me, I got the joy of the Lord." She has started to run around saying, "He saved me! He saved me!" This has led us to renewed vigor in praying that He will indeed save her at a young age.

Well, I am sitting here laughing because Mr.S just got two wisdom teeth pulled, and he is really loopy!! I think I will go enjoy his silliness some more. As you probably already noticed, I don't have too much to say tonight.

I'm looking forward to a cozy at home day tomorrow while the rain pours outside. Mr.S will be home recovering, and I'll get to baby him to my heart's content.

Have a wonderful weekend, friends!

Guilt and Some Common Pitfalls

2008-05-01T07:44:00.001-07:00

I can't count how many times as a wife and mom that I've felt guilty about one thing or another. This pregnancy has been no exception to my guilt trip habit.

Here are a couple of pitfalls I tend to dive into:

1. Instead of taking one day at a time, and realizing that I am truly doing the best I can, I let myself worry about the things I am not doing.

Did Selena get enough outside time today?

There's dust on my windowsill.

I only got through one load of wash and not three today.

I haven't baked in 10 days.

I haven't blogged in a week. Okay - more then a week.

2. The Wallowing World of Martyrdom

I am allowed to take Tylenol, but I am just going to suffer through this headache to show what an Amazon woman I am.

My hip is about to fall off, and my leg is numb, but I am going to play on the hard floor with my daughter because I am a wonderful mom who puts my kid first.

I am really tired today, but I am going to make the most complex recipe I have to show my husband how much I love him.

These pitfalls cause me to lose my joy. They also prevent me from giving glory to God with my lips, the expression on my face, and my heart. The little mini-me who follows me around the house is sure to pick up on these things.

On days like this one, I have debilitating sciatica. Today, I can barely feel my left leg! I am trying from the start of the day, to its finish - to make all my thoughts and actions captive to Him. As I literally and figurately limp through this day, I will try not to trip and fall into these pits ...

Because I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Because I am to rejoice in the Lord always.

Because I am made in His image.

Because my chief end is to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever.

I am going to smile through this day!

Mrs Purple Thumb and her Little Gardener

2008-04-21T12:52:00.001-07:00

Today I decided to help Lena plant her flower, which we now know is a Tuberous Begonia. Thank you so much to everyone who helped out with this!

We had a beautiful day to work in our little backyard. Above is the LG. Mrs PT was unavailable for photos.

The Little Gardener put her soil in the pot, counting as she went: "One, doo, free, four, five, six, deven, ate, nine, ten, yellow ..." Yellow? I don't know why she says yellow for eleven, but it works for her!

We carefully placed her begonia in the pot. The little gardener didn't want to touch it with her bare hands, so Mrs Purple Thumb had to help out.

More soil, and more counting to yellow.

Some water, but most escaped to the ground!

Time to take the pot to the front yard.

On the way, we discovered that out tulips are starting to come up on the side of our house!

Doesn't it look perfect? Hopefully this area is shady enough! We'll keep an eye on it.

Back to the back yard to plant some basil, oregano, and tomatoes. We'll start the seeds in little pots first.

We had fun gardening, but all good things must come to an end. We ended our morning with a good hand washing for Mrs. Purple Thumb and her little gardener, as well as a cold glass of water for each.

We'll keep you posted. Can Mrs PT and her LG keep these plants alive and thriving?

O For A Closer Walk With God

2008-04-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

There is such richness in this hymn. We sang it last night in church, and I wanted to think about it today.

O for a closer walk with God,
A calm and heavenly frame,
A light to shine upon the road
That leads me to the Lamb!

Where is the blessedness I knew,
When first I saw the Lord?
Where is the soul refreshing view
Of Jesus and His Word?

What peaceful hours I once enjoyed!
How sweet their memory still!
But they have left an aching void
The world can never fill.

Return, O holy Dove, return,
Sweet messenger of rest!
I hate the sins that made Thee mourn
And drove Thee from my breast.

The dearest idol I have known,
Whate’er that idol be
Help me to tear it from Thy throne,
And worship only Thee.

So shall my walk be close with God,
Calm and serene my frame;
So purer light shall mark the road
That leads me to the Lamb.

William Cowper

Puh-leeeeease Help Me!!!!

2008-04-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

Here we go again! Okay, my short term memory isn't quite at its best right now. But this is really ridiculous. Its ok - you can agree with me. Oh wait, I haven't told you the story yet.

1. Took a trip to the Farmer's Market today like the happy little housewife I am.
2. Hubby is away for three days and I wanted to give Lena a special treat.
3. She loves flowers. Loves them. Every time we leave the house, she says goodbye to the daffodils in the front yard. She says good morning and good night to them too.
4. I am not the gardening type, and I have the most purple thumb on the planet. (Isn't that the opposite of green on the color wheel?) But I love flowers too!!
5. I followed these really cool looking "garden-savvy" ladies around hopefully without them realizing it.
6. I got the same flowers they did. They are so pretty! I had never heard of this type of flower before. I thought maybe Lena could care for them herself - with the appropriate purple-thumb supervision of course!
7. By the time I got into the car, I was mostly sure of the name of the flowers.
8. By the time we got home, I had no idea what kind of flowers we had just bought, and there is no identification on them whatsoever.

I NEED SOME HELP!! ANY GREEN THUMBS OUT THERE??

p.s. these flowers also come in red, pink, and white

Treasured Moments - More Happiness

2008-04-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

While the leaves are changing, and the air is becoming crisp ... we will be waiting for something new.

Last night Daddy, Mommy and Lena got to hear the heartbeat of their expected little blessing from God. The baby is 11 weeks, 5 days old today.

"I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. May my meditation be sweet to Him; I will be glad in the Lord."

Psalm 104:34