The Smallest Blessings...

Extremely Urgent!

2011-03-19T08:47:00.006-05:00

The mountain of paperwork is over...for now. We officially mailed our dossier to our caseworker on January 22, 2011 who will then approve it and mail it off to the Philippines (Adoption Board). Punky helped me commemorate this momentous occasion...and of course I took pictures so that our little one can see it someday too!

The Waiting

2010-12-20T21:51:00.000-06:00

So many times people think that for adoption, the hardest part is the mountain of paperwork you have to climb over before you can receive a child. While there is a lot of paperwork to deal with, to me, that is not the hardest part. The hardest part is the waiting. The knowing that you so desperately want a child and there is a child (or millions) of children out there that desperately want a home and family. I am not a patient person anyway, so I have a feeling one of the lessons God wants to teach me is patience...to wait on Him and his timing for my life and my family.

Well, I got impatient the other day. I was feeling down that we are in the "waiting" stage. Although I know I shouldn't, I occasionally go on agency websites to view pictures of waiting children. Heartbreaking. I have done it several times and always been sad, but this time was different. I saw a picture of a little baby girl and I instantly fell in love. I just stared at her for the longest time. I began to pray that she would be mine. I even went as far as contacting her home agency to find out more about her and let them know I was interested in her. I called Hubby at work and told him I found a little girl and wanted her.

It turned out, this little one had already been spoken for. I was happy that she had a home and would not get "forgotten" in the system. However, I had to take a look at myself and ask why I jumped on this so quickly. I forgot about the Philippines and our caseworker, our agency, our timeline and papers, our DCFS approval, the path we feel God has chosen for us. I decided I would take matters into my own hands.

I was sad for a few days, and I have to admit, I still have this little girl's picture on my computer. I keep it there as a reminder of what I'm about to share next.

Literally, not two days after this, I got an email devotional entitled "The Reason for the Wait" from A Word With You. Here is what it said...

Isn't it amazing how different your second child can be from your first child? Just when you think you've got this parent thing all figured out, God sends you a totally different kid. For example, food has always been sort of a necessary evil for our granddaughter. She can take it or leave it. Not her brother! Oh no! This kid is an eating machine. When he was still supposed to be only having milk, he was following every bite any of us put into our mouth as if to say, "So when do I get some of that stuff?" One day, his mom was mixing up his next meal, and he was watching and complaining. As she continued to get it ready, he continued to escalate his expressions of impatience and displeasure. By the time his food was ready, we were dealing with a very loud, very insistent protest.
Our grandson didn't have the words to say it, but he made his desires very clear as his food was being prepared, "I want my food, and I want it now!" It's a good thing his mother didn't give in. It wasn't ready yet! Believe me, it wouldn't have been good for him to get what he wanted when he wanted it. It would have been, in plain English, bleaaahhh!

I can't begin to count the times that I've been the same way with God about something I wanted or needed. "What's taking so long, God? I want it, and I want it now!" Maybe there's something you've been asking God for, trusting God for. And it's been a while, and it still hasn't come. You want it now, but there's a reason God isn't giving it to you now. It's not ready yet. And it would disappoint you if He gave it to you now.

Psalm 37, beginning with verse 5, tells us to: "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this...Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him...Wait for the Lord and keep His way." There's the word that often stands between you and God's best - wait. Part of committing your way to the Lord, of trusting in Him, is to wait until God says it's ready; until God says you're ready. So many people are living today in the heartache of their own impatience. They couldn't wait, so they grabbed what they could have now. And it's been much less than what God was getting ready for them.

Look, you've been waiting for God to come through. You want to be married. You're waiting for Him to answer your prayer about having a child, raising a child. You're waiting for that job, that heart change, that breakthrough, that answer, and it hasn't come yet. Don't panic. Don't let impatience cost you the perfect will of God. Premature babies aren't as healthy as ones that are full-term. Premature solutions aren't healthy either. Wait until it's full-term. Remember the principle of Galatians 4:4, "In the fullness of time, God will," bring you your answer when it's ready. So stop whimpering, stop whining, stop trying to grab it before it's ready. If you insist on having it now, you're not going to like it!

Whoa! This hit me right where I needed it...I had never heard it put that way before, but God sent it exactly when I needed it. So, I would appreciate your prayers for patience, as I know this will be a very long process and I am sure at some point again, I will get impatient and want to take matters into my own hands. However, I keep looking at the picture of this little girl and realize that God has something even better, even more perfect for our family that he is formulating right now....and I just can't argue with that.

Shutterfly

2010-11-23T20:45:00.002-06:00

OK. So I have heard from more than one friend now that Shutterfly is giving away 50 free cards...so I finally had time to get on and check it out for myself....it's true! You all should check it out here: http://blog.shutterfly.com/5358/holiday2010-blog-submission-form/

I love Shutterfly...they have the best designs, color schemes....just so creative. I would take one of each! It will be hard to decide what to pick for our holiday cards this year...I literally could spend hours on there looking through everything...and don't even get me started on the photo books....wow!

I cant' wait to look for our "birth announcement" when we finally get our baby's referral and bring our little one home!!!

Finally!

2010-11-16T19:34:00.002-06:00

Finally it has arrived. We have finished all of the paperwork that our agency needs to approve us for adoption. All the forms, courses, online learning is done! Well, kinda...

Now we are working on our dossier, the bundle of forms and photos that we will put together to actually send to the Philippines. This is big. This is important. This is what the orphanage directors will see when they are trying to decide whether to choose us to receive a child. We would appreciate your prayers as we work on this and try to get it out quickly.

It is exciting to get one step closer to our little one coming home. However, we are getting to the hardest part...once our paperwork and dossier is submitted, the waiting begins...all is out of my control and I can't do anything to speed up the process. At least with the paperwork, I felt like I was doing something...now all I can do is wait on God's timing and pray for my little one so far away.

Another Family's Story

2010-09-23T20:24:00.003-05:00

So the other night I decided to get on the internet to look up pictures of Philippine children. I came across a you tube video of another couple that took a video of themselves when they travelled there to pick up their son. I cried and cried and cried when I saw the images of these precious children and the way they are living...

This couple's little boy was laying in a chewed, worn wood crib with no mattress!!! Oh! My heart simply breaks as I imagine MY CHILD is probably already born and may be lying in a crib just like that.

I encourage you to watch this link if you can...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQ2uN2wv-_k&feature=related

Food

2010-09-19T17:26:00.002-05:00

The other day, one of Hubby's friends returned home from a trip to the Philippines...he was so nice and brought us back some dried mangos (a Philippine specialty) and chocolates. Punky was so excited to show me when I got home from work! After showing me, she said, "but Mom, we can't eat this yet." I asked why and she said, "because we have to save it for when our baby gets here!"

Bless her heart! She thought that the child we get from the Philippines would have to eat Philippine food and she wanted to save it! I love the way this little girl thinks! Below is a picture we took of her with the treats to remember!

Books Books Books

2010-08-17T21:10:00.002-05:00

Ok everyone, I need your help. If there are any books you have read lately that pertain to adoption, I would love to have your suggestions...I have ordered 2 that I can't wait to get and start reading but would like to constantly have something I am learning on this adoption process. So, send me your suggestions!!!

Locks of Love

2010-08-05T11:17:00.006-05:00

I totally forgot to post this, but Punky got her hair cut! She wanted to donate her hair to Locks of Love, so we were waiting until she was in my friend's wedding and then we got it cut! So, I will show you some before and after pictures...she got a total of 10 inches cut off!!!

Baby Book

2010-08-01T21:26:00.004-05:00

So I have been thinking a lot lately about the baby we will get (I say baby, it could be a two year old, but to us it will be a baby). When you're pregnant you prepare for the baby and take pictures of the "pregnant belly" and the baby showers and all of that fun stuff. Well, with this baby, there will be none of that. I look back at Punky's baby book/scrapbook and see pictures of all of that and it really started to get me thinking about what will I put in this baby's scrapbook. Yes, we will of course have pictures of the orphanage and the plane ride home, but I want more. I want this child to see that we prepared for them too. That we planned and anticipated just like with Punky. And with this one, we even had to work hard to get them here! So, I decided I am going to take pictures along the way. Hubby doesn't quite understand what I am feeling, but I think it is a mother's heart for her child ~ even though I don't know them yet!!

Well, last week we met with our caseworker and unexpectedly found ourselves downtown getting fingerprinted for our file. So, I decided to take some pictures of the event to capture yet one more thing we had to go through for our baby...it's not a belly or a shower, but it is one more step closer to getting him/her home and one more thing we prepared for them. It isn't much, but it will go in their scrapbook and we will always remember that day! So if I post some pictures along the way that seem insignificant, to you or me they may be, but someday they will mean something to our son or daughter in their baby book.

The Philippines!!!

2010-07-19T19:46:00.003-05:00

Many people have asked where we are going to adopt from. We were so unclear as to the direction God wanted us to go...we heard another couple tell of their adoption experience and they too could not decide so they went two different routes...

The first route, of course, was domestic adoption. We have put our names in with my OB doctor here in town as well as with everyone we know...counselors, pastors, etc who may know of someone who wants to give up their baby for private adoption. Essentially, this mother would choose us to adopt her baby and we would go through the legal process together. We would not have to go through the foster care system (which I just don't think I could handle emotionally!) and it could be finalized fairly quickly. That is one option.

The second option is international adoption. We had narrowed the countries down to three: China, South Korea, and the Philippines. All we had heard about over and over and felt drawn to them in some way. Through someone we know we found our agency, Lifelink, and met with a caseworker. All three of these countries are options through Lifelink. However, we were told China is up to a 5 year wait and we took that as our answer that China was out for us (we liked China because of the almost certainty that we would get a very young girl). South Korea was a possibility, but it seemed very certain that we would get a boy. So, the Philippines struck us as the best choice for our family. I had seen several different things on TV about orphans in the Philippines as well as other things and now know God was slowly leading us in this direction.

At this time, we are taking both routes...which ever pans out first is the way we will go. We are confident God will lead our family to the child that is perfectly meant for us whether that be here in the USA or the Philippines!

Adoption!

2010-07-10T15:46:00.003-05:00

Well, as most of you know by now we have decided to adopt. We have had a lot of questions so I thought I would try to answer some here in this blog and keep everyone up to date on our progress.

Hubby and I have been trying to have another baby for over three years. We have had some testing with our doctors and they have said to keep trying that it could happen anytime. But it hasn't. We truly feel that God has not allowed us to get pregnant so that we would follow Him in adoption. We want Punky to be a big sister (she will be so great at it!) and we know we could provide a good home and family to another child. So, that is our primary reason for adopting.

However, through all of our research and investigating on the different options and avenues we could go, we have really felt strongly that God commands all Christians to care for the orphans of the world. Currently, it is estimated that there are 147 million orphans worldwide...all children in need of parents, homes, siblings, love, caring, and some even basic necessities. We feel it is our responsibility as well as comission from God to care for orphans. James 1:27 says "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

I will continually be posting our feelings, desires, and needs throughout our journey and hope you will continue to read and share this blog with others. We covet your prayers and are excited to see what God is going to do in and through our family. He knows best and we are trusting fully in that.

How To Love A Child

2010-02-14T23:31:00.002-06:00

be there. say yes as often as possible. let them bang on pots and pans. if they're crabby, put them in water. if they're unlovable, love yourself. realize how important it is to be a child. go to a movie theater in your pajamas. read books out loud with joy. invent pleasures together. remember how really small they are. giggle a lot. surprise them. say no when necessary. teach feelings. heal your own inner child. learn about parenting. hug a tree. make loving safe. bake a cak and eat it with no hands. go find elephants and kiss them. plan to build a rocketship. imagine yourself magic. make lots of forts with blankets. let your angel fly. reveal your own dreams. search out the positive. keep the gleam in your eye. mail letters to God. encourage silly. plant licorice in your garden. open up. STOP YELLING. express your love. a lot. speak kindly. paint their tennis shoes. handle with caring.

And I added...show them Jesus.

Children are miraculous.

She really is learning

2010-01-18T21:26:00.002-06:00

So, Punky is in Cubbies/AWANA at church and I have kind of wondered if it is too much for her to have to learn Bible verses at such a young age, and if she really does retain and understand what she is learning. However, she likes going to it and I figure it can't hurt anything to learn about Jesus as much as possible!!!

So last night we said prayers right before bed and I asked her if she loved Jesus and she said yes. I asked her why (thinking maybe she didn't even know why) and she said "Because he loves me!" I was shocked! I asked her how she knew that and she said, "God loves us and sent his Son!" It melted my heart to hear her say that. She really is comprehending and learning what she is hearing....and the most important lesson of life that Jesus loves her and died for her. That is all I can ask.

Radio Sadness

2009-12-10T13:49:00.003-06:00

I have my alarm clock set to wake me up to the radio...usually I wake up and turn it off before the news comes on. I don't like to watch or listen to the news anymore...it is usually, sad, sickening, or scary. So, I don't listen.

However, the other morning, the news came on and I didn't shut it off. They were talking about the universal health care bill and how it is in the Senate (or something like that) and they are taking parts out and adding things in. Then, they got a statement from one of the Senators and he stated something like "We should not allow the issue of abortion to prevent millions of people from having health care". I absolutely couldn't believe my ears. How about let's not let the issue of abortion prevent millions of people from living!!!! If I knew the name of the person that said that, I would write a letter. It saddens me that now, abortion is not a big controversial thing that we all debate, but rather an issue or debate that we throw under the rug in order to pass another bill.

Catch Up...

2009-11-23T20:38:00.002-06:00

So Punky has had a stuffy nose. However, she won't let me spray it or use the aspirator or help her blow it. So I finally told her that she had to stop complaining about it (because she really whines about it) unless she was going to let me help her. She says, "But Mom! I don't like any of the ideas you like!" Hubby and I just laughed.
We were eating breakfast the other day and Hubby and I were talking. Punky said, "Let's focus on eating, guys!" I think she has heard that at the babysitters.
Punky has said several times that she will eat turkey on Thanksgiving. I'll keep you posted as to whether that actually happens. I doubt it.

Halloween 2009-Part 1

2009-11-04T18:46:00.003-06:00

Punky was a cute black kitty for Halloween...

Will post more pics later, as we didn't get to celebrate with Buddy because Ab was sick.

Rough Day

2009-10-21T21:24:00.002-05:00

I really cannot believe how much my 4 year old knows, comprehends, and says. Hubby just said the other night it seems like she is so much older because of some of the things she says. She definitely acts like she is 12 sometimes!!

Well, the other night, I was trying to get her into bed and I asked her to pick out her clothes for the next day. She asked why she couldn't do it the next morning. I told her that it stresses me out in the morning (I am NOT a morning person) and that we need to get it done tonight so that we don't fight about it in the morning. I told her, "Baby, I don't want to fight with you about your clothes, and we really need to move fast in the mornings." She thought for only a second and then said, "No, mommy. Don't worry. We can do it in the morning...I will fight fast!" OH MY! I didn't quite know what to say to that!

Then a few nights later, she was picking out her clothes for the next morning and couldn't decide so I told her to go to bed and we would do it in the morning. She said, "But mommy, I don't want to have a rough morning!" OH MY! She learns so much!

Pity Party for Me

2009-10-03T13:14:00.004-05:00

So many times I only think about myself...what I'm going through...what I'm feeling...what matters to me..who I have to make dinner for...what needs cleaned. God has taught me some very important lessons the last couple of weeks, but the one I learned this week was especially hard.

Every Thursday, I get to pick my nephew, Buddy, up from preschool at the same time I pick Punky up. I love it because Punky gets excited to have someone to play with at home and I like to see Buddy actually in school! He is such a wonderful little boy.

Anyway, this past Thursday, I had a pity party for myself. For some reason or another, I left work just a few minutes late, which meant I was going to be pushing it to pick up the kids. Even though they are both done at 11:30, I have worked it out so that I can pick Buddy up about 5 minutes early and still have plenty of time to get in the car line to pick up Punky. Well, I found myself leaving work at the time I should have been picking up Buddy. I am driving in the car, getting frustrated, getting angry at the SLOW cars in front of me, mad at the road construction that is slowing me down. I finally pull into the school lot and decide to pick Punky up first so they don't send her to after school care, etc. It was a mess. I pull into the car line only to see that there is a different teacher putting them into the car, and she is not NEARLY as fast as the usual teacher. Great! Just what I need. I am huffing and puffing and really getting myself worked up. I get Punky in the car and race over to get Buddy. I failed to mention that it is cold outside, and raining very hard at this point. I jet full sprint into the building to get Buddy, running all the way. I pick him up, run him back out to the car, get both kids buckled in and at this point I am done! I am upset, tired, hungry, soaked and totally feeling sorry for myself.

I really don't have those days tooooooo often...in fact many times I get teary eyed after dropping Punky off at school in the morning...I thank God as I am walking to my car that I have a beautiful child to take to school, that my job is flexible enough to allow me to do that, and that God has blessed us financially to be able to send Punky to a private school. I really have a great life. But there are those days like Thursday that the pity party for me begins. I found out just today that on that Thursday morning, one of the moms of a little boy in Buddy's class was killed in a car accident on the way to pick him up from class. In the instant that I was feeling angry and tired and UNthankful, I am sure that mother would have given anything to be in my shoes. My heart is sad, not just for this family's tragedy, but because I missed an opportunity to see the little blessings God has given to me. I hope from now on when I get stuck in traffic or am running late, that I think of this and remember how blessed I am and how thankful I am for what I have, for every day I have here on earth, and for the wonderful people in my life that I GET to care for.

Ballet

2009-10-01T19:38:00.004-05:00

So Punky has started her first ballet class...it is for 4-5 year olds. She absolutely loves it. She is in the same class as her little friend from church and it is the most hilarious thing to watch these little uncoordinated girls run and twirl about thinking they are the most beautiful ballerina. I was laughing so hard (she couldn't see me) and I have to wonder how the teacher gets through class without laughing! Here are a few pics...

Punky is a busy bee!

2009-09-22T13:21:00.002-05:00

Things have been going good...but busy in our house lately. Punky is REALLY enjoying school and her teacher informed me today that she has a little boyfriend. I asked if it was Will and she said no, Luke. I guessed Will because she talks about him a lot and the teacher said oh yes him too. Great. Two boyfriends in the first month of school. Hubby will love that one...

Punky started Cubbies again this year at church and really likes it. They learn so much for being so little!

She is also starting her dance class tonight...it is called Creative Movements for 4 year olds. What an interesting name! They focus a lot on ballet, and Punky is excited that she is required to wear a pink or black leotard (which she already has) and pink tights and ballet slippers. Her little friend from church is in the same class, so she is very excited. I did find out that I can't really stay and watch them, as they prefer the kids to be focused and not showing off or nervous in front of other people...ME? NOT ABLE TO TAKE PICTURES? WHATEVER SHALL I DO? Don't worry, I will sneak a few...

Big Day-Classroom and Dentist!

2009-08-18T17:06:00.011-05:00

Today was a big day for Punky. It started off going to school to see her classroom and meet her teacher. As we were getting out of the car at school, Punky squealed with excitement (literally). Mrs. H seems very nice and we are so excited for school (K4) to start on Thursday. Here are a few pics (yes, I took my camera!)

It was somewhat strange for me, as this was MY 2nd grade classroom when I first came to this school. It seemed so much bigger 23 years ago than it did today!

We also went to Punky's first dentist appointment. I told her at home that we needed to brush our teeth before we went and Punky said, "No we don't mommy, the dentist will clean our teeth for us!" SHE DID SO GREAT! She of course made me go first so that she could watch what they do. When it was her turn she got right up in the chair and was all smiles. She did exactly what they asked her to do, and was so brave! (Once again, my camera was present).

Answered Prayer!

2009-08-18T10:26:00.002-05:00

I know I have not been posting very well this summer...we have been sooo busy! I am hoping that with school starting we will get back into a routine and things will get less stressful. We are thanking God for some fun events this summer including a very successful Missionary Garage Sale at church, conclusion of our OT Bible study, a day trip (ALONE!) to Starved Rock, lots of swimming, playing, and summer fun.

Well, today we are going to see Punky's K-4 classroom and meet her teacher. She is very excited. I will post pictures later (of course I am taking my camera).

Anyways, one requirement of starting school is a copy of Punky's birth certificate. I knew that I had one here at the house because we were required to show one a few months ago for her elsewhere. However, after turning the house upside down (Hubby helped too), it was no where to be found. I was dreading having to drag Punky down to the courthouse, pay the fee and wait for another copy. Ugh. Just a few minutes before needing to leave, I decided to stop one more time and pray that I could find it. Punky and I prayed that we would find it ASAP! God totally led me to check Hubby's nightstand (no idea why) and it was there! Not 5 minutes after we had prayed. Punky and I stopped and prayed again thanking God for his help. Punky was actually quite excited. I think I was more excited about showing Punky that God answers prayer than about finding the certificate. What an awesome lesson.

Bible Study

2009-06-16T21:06:00.005-05:00

Hubby and I have been in a WONDERFUL small group Bible study going through the old testament. It truly has been informative and eye-opening and we have really enjoyed it. There is quite a bit of homework week to week, but we have really enjoyed spending time together doing it...usually while Punky is sleeping.

On Saturday, Punky was in the other room playing, and Hubby and I decided to relax on our bed and read our study together. We were sitting there and Punky came in a few times to see what we were doing. A few minutes later, she comes in and asks if she can sit on the bed with us. We of course said sure. She comes back in, with her pen, notebook, and Bible and says "I'm going to do my Bible study too!" And she sat on the bed and wrote in her notebook and read her Bible just like us. It was so cute that I had to take a picture.

It just goes to show you that little eyes and ears pick up what you are doing, even when you don't realize it. It is so important to teach by example, and not just by words, especially with children.

She's so much like me!

2009-06-10T17:11:00.005-05:00

The other day it was clean up time, and I told Punky she needed to go and pick up all the stuff on the floor in her room and I was going to come and inspect in a few minutes. I asked her a few minutes later if she was ready and she said yes. I went in, and this is what I found:

Everything had been picked up off the floor, but it was on her bed...

...and stuffed in the corner behind the closet door. She is SOOOO much like me!!!

Play Day

2009-06-09T21:25:00.008-05:00

Hubby's work had "Play Day" where they offer all sorts of rides and activities and food for their employees and families. Punky and cousin Buddy had a blast and enjoyed all the fun! Of all the exciting things to do, they both liked the bounce houses the best.

Buddy was afraid to have his face painted, but yet he would launch his body off of the bounce house slide with no reservations...that is a boy for ya!We got to ride an ACTUAL school bus to the park...the kids thought that was wonderful!

School Bus

2009-05-15T21:35:00.006-05:00

Punky has been asking for weeks, every time she sees a school bus, she wants to know if she will get to ride in one someday.

Well, today, she got the surprise of her life. Our sitter's father drives a school bus, and brought his bus by their house so the kids could take a ride! They had so much fun, and Punky was so excited...she felt like a big girl! Here are some pics...

Warm Weather...or is it?

2009-04-21T16:43:00.006-05:00

We had a little bit of a tease of warm weather...and Punky has been having so much fun playing on her swing set. We are so ready for summer! Punky cannot wait to go to the park, swimming, and riding her bike/scooter. Here are a few pics of her on the warm sunny day, and then this past week in her raincoat and boots...too cute!

Easter 2009

2009-04-16T16:31:00.006-05:00

Well, we had a pretty good Easter at our house this year. Saturday morning we went to a giant easter egg hunt with over 30,000 eggs. Punky and Buddy had a great time and got lots of candy.

The Easter Bunny came late in the night and left Punky's basket (she was very concerned as she went to bed Saturday night that I was not going to bed yet, because she thought the Easter Bunny would pass by because we were still up).

Despite the fact that we carried our camera practically the whole weekend, for some reason, I only got a few pics of Punky in her Easter dress. We had lunch at Hubby's parents house and then off to Pontiac for dinner with my side. It was a very busy day, but good to see everyone.

Peer Pressure

2009-04-10T17:21:00.002-05:00

So, I think Punky has experienced her first bout with peer pressure. Lately, all she wants to wear is dresses...to school, to church, even just to play in around the house. Well, I have noticed at school that most if not all of the little girls are wearing dresses. I think she just wants to be like them, or they all conspired to be alike and wear them each day. Nevertheless, she is in dress mode, as well as make up mode. Anytime we go somewhere or someone is coming over, she has to run into my bathroom and put MAKEUP on!! I asked her why, and she said, "Mom, I HAVE to look beautiful!" I am now trying so hard to let her know that she IS beautiful without all of that stuff, just the way she is. She is only 4 year old!!! It has begun, and will probably never end.

Library Days

2009-03-31T16:03:00.003-05:00

So, I am trying to look for some fun things Punky & I can do and so today we went to the library. She picked out some fun books, and we are excited to read them. I am going to start reading her chapter books...big girl books that don't have big pictures in them...I want her to use her imagination and anticipate what is going to happen night after night. We will see if it will keep her attention or not. If anyone has any recommendations for a book series that she would enjoy, I am open for suggestions! I thought about American Girl, but selfishly am trying to hold off on that because of all of the hoopla that comes with it (those dolls and accessories are SO expensive!).

Cuteness from the Punk-ster

2009-03-28T08:41:00.002-05:00

As we were driving in the car the other day, Punky asked me where we were going. I told her to the physical therapist to help my neck. She said "Again? Mommy, you don't need to go there all the time, you just need to exercise in the morning like Daddy!" She knows my weakness!

Sitting in the physical therapist's, Punky wanted to go into one of the rooms to see if there were toys in it. She kept asking and I repeatedly kept telling her no. Finally she said, "Mommy, if we can go in there, I will give you a treat!" Gee, like she hasn't heard that bribe before!

Then, we were at home getting ready for supper and Punky wanted something to eat. I said no because it was almost supper time. She kept asking, and finally she said, Mommy, you need to give it to me, or else you are going to have a time out! Ugh.

Too big

2009-03-25T19:37:00.002-05:00

Punky informed us the other day that she is too big for a car seat...those are for babies, she said. I think this all came from seeing her friend (who is a year older) get in the car and sit on a booster seat. So now, she keeps talking about getting a booster seat instead of a "baby" car seat.

The only thing we can think to tell her is that she has to eat in order to grow. It has actually worked a few times. She actually ate a piece of bologna at the sitters today for the first time! Small steps of progress...

Punky's Heaven

2009-02-19T14:30:00.002-06:00

So, the other day at church, Punky's class talked about Heaven and what they thought it would be like. They had tons of magazines where the kids could cut things out and paste them on the paper....things they thought would be in Heaven. There was pictures of animals, people, houses, cars, any item you could think of. Well, Punky's picture completely describes her...

...sweets and pizza. She is definitely a blend of Hubby & me...I could eat sweets all day long (especially chocolate) and Hubby would eat pizza for every meal if I let him. Too cute.

Analog vs. Digital

2009-02-17T21:12:00.002-06:00

Just a quick note...

I am so tired of hearing every other commercial on TV warning people that the analog signals for TV will be no longer after today. Get your converter box now!

I can't help but think if people would put this much effort in getting the word out about homelessness, food bank shortages, diseases, etc, then maybe some worthwhile things would actually get done!

Study

2009-02-10T23:20:00.003-06:00

Hubby and I have started attending a new Bible study on the Old Testament. I have never done an "overview" study of the OT before, so I am interested in seeing the big picture. Already there seems to be quite a bit of homework, so I am praying I find the time to get it all done before the next week. It seems like a really fun group of people and we are both excited!

In other news...Punky has really been having a hard time wanting to eat dinner, or at least eat what I am fixing. If she doesn't eat, she has to go and sit on her bed until she is ready to eat. Once Hubby and I are done eating, it is too late for her, and she has to go the rest of the night without a treat or getting to finish supper. Tonight, we had mac n cheese, so I know it is just a test of wills, because she does like mac n cheese. This is so hard for me because I just want her to eat, but I know she has to learn that she eats what I fix when I fix it...I can't go fixing her seperate meals when she gets hungry. UGH!

Conversation

2009-02-06T19:31:00.002-06:00

Here is how a conversation went today between me and Punky:

We pulled up next to a police car at a stoplight and:

"Look Punky, there is a police car by us!"
"Who gets to ride in there Mommy?"
"When people do something bad, they ride in there."
"Why?"
"When big people do bad things, the police man takes them to jail."
"Do they get a time out?"
"Well, yes, they do!"

It was very cute the way her mind was working.

Food Mishaps from Chef Reba

2009-02-05T17:57:00.003-06:00

OK. Those that really know me, know that I don't like to cook...especially dinner when I am hungry. I got that from my mom, who does admit it as well.

Well, the past week has not been good in our kitchen...

Mishap #1:

In trying to find something to fix for dinner (my dilemma always is that I want something easy and quick, but nutricious for my family), I decided on chicken. We had some frozen chicken breasts, so I decided to cook them in the crockpot for a few hours so they would be tender. A couple hours later, I checked on them and found that they were only partially done, partially raw. I had thought to myself that it probably wasn't a good idea to put frozen meat in the crockpot because now it was probably filled with bacteria from not staying at the same temp. So, I called my mom. She was skeptical about eating them. I called my mother in law, but got no answer, so I called Hubby's grandma. I will never forget what she said..."Well, I don't really want to be the one to tell you to eat it or not, but I wouldn't!" Lesson learned. I quickly scrounged together something else. Ugh.

Mishap#2:

A few nights later, I was supposed to take a meal to a family at church that just had a baby. I was fixing pulled BBQ pork in a large crockpot and then in a small crockpot to take to them. They had been cooking for a couple of hours and I heard a popping noise in the kitchen. I went in there only to find my large crockpot throwing sparks all over the place. I reached over the sparks and unplugged both crockpots. I quickly took the crock pot pan/insert out of the big unit and put it in the oven on low to finish cooking and save the meat. I moved the smaller crockpot to another outlet to finish cooking. Needles to say, I had to throw my large crockpot away. Oh, but it gets better.

I went in an hour or so later and felt the small crockpot...it was not even on. It had sat there for over an hour with no heat. I wanted to cry. The sparking must have blown a fuse, so the other outlet didn't work. I couldn't risk the fact that I was giving a family bad pork, so I had to throw it out. Another bunch of expensive meat literally down the drain. I had to get the family take out.

Mishap #3:

We were out of milk today, so during my trip to Target, I realized they have milk and I wouldn't have to stop anywhere else. I also got some canned veggies for dinner tonight and we came home. I helped Punky into the house along with her blanket, doll, my purse, the target bag, and her school papers and set them all on the washer while we took our coats and shoes off. Punky was EXTREMELY hungry so I immediately set out to make her pbj sandwich...yes, that's right...I left the milk sitting on the washer. It was a good 4 hours before I realized it. It may have been okay to drink, but I am phobic about contaminated food, and just wouldn't take the chance...milk down the drain. I do not want to cook or do any fixing or buying of food for quite some time!!!!!

Crazy Busy

2009-02-01T16:50:00.003-06:00

Well, our household has been very busy over the last few weeks, but thankfully we have been healthy!

Since my last post, we had a wonderful week in Florida during the -30 degree temperatures here. We went to Magic Kingdom and Sea World and did some shopping as well. It was just the three of us and we had a wonderful time being together.

Punky had her 4th birthday (which we celebrated while in Florida). She made a cake to take to school-white cake with pink frosting and sprinkles. They ate practically the whole thing!

We got a new camera, which is why I haven't posted pics in a while. I finally think I have figured it out.

Events until now

2009-01-12T09:19:00.002-06:00

On Saturday, we arrived in Florida. It was fun to ride the airplane with Punky. She really actually liked it and was good. She kept herself very entertained. She decided she needed to sit by the window and when she saw the ground from way up high, she said "The ground looks like a puzzle!" The weather was about 75 degrees when we arrived and felt WONDERFUL!

We visited our favorite Florida family on Sunday. We went to their church and got to hear Pastor D preach and then spent the day with them. I think Punky was more excited about this than about going to Disney! She loved playing with GiGi and Gann and had soooo much fun. I will post pictures of the visit when we get home.

It was extremely nice weather on Sunday-about 80. It looks like the weather is steadily going to get colder as the week goes on, so no swimming for us this week! It is still warmer than back home, though!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-01-08T13:04:00.002-06:00

So, I know, once you become an adult (I guess an old adult) you don't celebrate birthdays like when you were a kid. I am really fine with that, and don't even really need presents. So, here is how my birthday went...

7:00 a.m. - got up and showered, got Punky ready to go to the sitter; packed my lunch and out the door at 7:45.
Got to work and had a nice stressful morning; many of my friends wished me a great birthday, and I even had a 40th birthday balloon appear in my office...nice. I didn't mind the joke, except that there were a few people that came by my office and asked (seriously) if I was really 40....NO!
11:00 - Friends bought me lunch-Panera yummy! Scarfed it down so that I still had time to run to the courthouse to get a copy of Punky's birth cerficate for Disney. Raced back to work.
12:00 - Had a lovely hard working afternoon.
4:30 - went to pick up Punky at the sitter...found out she had not taken a nap, so I knew this would be a fun evening.
Punky needed to take treats to school on Thursday, so we stopped by Schnucks to pick out a cake mix and frosting. Went home.
5:00 - Made a cake (with Punky's help). Fixed a very fast and not so filling dinner of Ramen noodles and put in a load of laundry. Ate dinner; all of this with one cranky girl at my heels.
6:00 - left for church; Punky almost didn't get to go because of her attitude.
8:15 - arrived back home; hubby was at his soccer game; Punky had been crying most of the way home; had a conversation as to why she was NOT going to get to eat a cupcake because she had been bad all evening long.
Got her ready for bed, teeth brushed, potty, all while she was still crying because now she didn't want to go to bed early. I explained many times that when she doesn't take a nap, she has to go to bed early.
Put in another load of laundry.
9:00 - finally got Punky to sleep.
Cleaned up the kitchen and folded laundry while watching something on TV (I can't even remember what).
9:45 - Hubby came home, so we put in a frozen pizza. YUM!
Ate some pizza and put in another load of laundry (yes, I am behind and want it ALL done by the time we leave on vacation).
10:30 - Folded more clothes and decided it was time to go to bed.
Made sure doors were locked and all lights out except the ones hubby was using.
Gave Punky another blanket and turned out her princess light.
Brushed my teeth, washed my face.
Had devotions. I think I fell asleep before I was even done praying.

I could use a lot of words to describe my birthday...hectic, stressful, busy...but I am thankful for it. I have many wonderful people in my life and am truly blessed.

Oh, and I realized that my driver's license also expired, so I guess I know where I will have to go tomorrow!!! Oh great, a new picture. UGH!

Santa

2008-12-28T23:38:00.002-06:00

So, Punky does officially believe in Santa...I am not sure how that happened, but somehow we have to ease her into the reality that he doesn't...anyways...

Grandma gave Punky a gift in a blue snowman bag. I, of course, save all give bags to reuse. So, as I was wrapping Punky's presents on Christmas Eve night from Santa, I grabbed that gift bag, not even thinking.

Christmas morning, Punky starts unwrapping all of her presents and gets to that one. She looks at it and says, "Wow! Another snowman bag! I wonder how Santa knew to get that one!" She obviously remembered the bag and was questioning it...she is way to smart for her own good.

Also, she was not going to bed like a good girl the other night and I said, okay, I am going to leave a note for Santa so that he won't leave us any presents. She got very serious and asked if I was going to call him. I said I didn't have the number and she said that Jen (her babysitter) does. She said Jen called Santa when they were being bad and told him to stop making toys! She thought that was going to happen again! Too funny.

I am very thankful for this Christmas...we did not have to travel outside of town once! We did have quite a few get togethers, but it all worked out in the end.

Lessons From a Punky

2008-12-04T16:28:00.006-06:00

It never fails to amaze me how much Punky teaches me...things about life but also things about the Lord.

As we were walking on the ice covered ground the other day, hand in hand, Punky slipped and fell...not too hard, as I had her hand, but landed on her knees. She was fine, got up, and we kept walking. The next day, we were walking and she slipped again, only this time, I held her up. She said, "Whoa, you caught me mama!"

In that moment, I thought, that's how it is with God. He is constantly holding our hand, wanting us to rely on Him. Does that mean we won't fall? No. Does it mean we won't get hurt? No. But what it does mean is that he will ALWAYS be there to pick us up, brush us off, and take our hand for the next time. I would much rather walk hand in hand with Jesus than to risk it by myself.

I took these pictures from our first snow fall...Punky LOVES the snow, and had a lot of fun playing with Daddy.

Priorities

2008-11-29T11:37:00.002-06:00

I learned a very unexpected lesson on Thanksgiving that I thought I would share...

Every Thanksgiving morning, I venture out into the barren streets to get a newspaper...you know, the one overflowing with the Black Friday ads. I then race back home to look through every single one to see if there is anything I can't live without. This Thursday was no exception.

I went to the nearest gas station, grabbed a paper, and took it up to the register. The cashier was a young Indian man who was very friendly. He saw what I was buying, and then said, "Oh, very heavy paper. Too bad all of those store ads are in there." I said that was why I was buying it, was to look at all of the ads. He said "Oh, I thought you wanted to read this," and pointed to the article on the front page about the attacks that had just happened in India. I said I hadn't heard about that and he said, "Yes, very sad. The Taj Mahal hotel was on fire from terrorists. Very beautiful place. Americans are hostage too." I could tell he was saddened by this news and I immediately felt sorry for him. Here I am wanting to look through ads to see how I can spend my money, and he is worried about his country and the people that are there. I felt very snobby and realized how other people in less fortunate countries probably view Americans.

It really made me think while I was looking through those ads, and I just prayed that God would give me a thankful, content heart. He answered my prayer as I didn't purchase anything on Black Friday...I literally didn't see anything in the ads that I felt I should buy, considering all of the unfortunate people living even in my own town. God has really given me a burden this holiday season to share what I have with those that don't have. I am thankful for it, and hope that I remember to carry it with me all year round, not just at the holidays.

Excellent

2008-11-22T20:17:00.002-06:00

When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. Many times, we don't understand or see this because we want things OUR way...OUR timing...I have been convinced lately that our ultimate desire should be for the perfect will of God. I know that God will always get me to the place He wants me to be, but sometimes I don't understand the process or events He uses to get me there.

Two quotes I have heard lately that have really spoken to me are:

'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.'

'It will cost you more to miss the will of God than it will to find it.'

Santa's House

2008-11-18T13:32:00.002-06:00

So, Punky and I were talking about Christmas and I mentioned to her that if she wanted, she could make Christmas presents for people. She looked at me with big eyes and said "NOOOOO!" I asked why and she said, "I don't want to go to Santa's House. I want to stay here. I don't want to ride in the sleigh..." I started laughing and said that no, she wouldn't be going to the north pole, she would stay here with me and make them. She thought I was going to send her to the north pole to make the presents. Precious.

President Obama

2008-11-08T10:03:00.002-06:00

I found this posted on someone else's blog, but it is so wonderful...The following is an open letter from a girltalk reader to President-Elect Barack Obama. Her words eloquently capture our hearts on this historic day.

Dear President-Elect Obama,
Today I shed tears of joy, along with hundreds of thousands of Americans, for the great victory of your election. The significance of this moment cannot be overstated. Our African-American friends have been oppressed and cast aside for generations in this country of ours. Now, may the shame be completely wiped away and may the glory that this nation represents and strives for become a reality for more and more of our once silenced citizens.
I confess I did not cast my vote for you. Not because you failed to inspire me with your speeches, because you did. Not because you do not impress me with your leadership and vision, because you do. I cast my vote for another based upon my concern for another segment of our society which is downtrodden and cast aside, the weak, the innocent; the unborn.
Mr. President-Elect, I pray that your heart would be burdened as well to do all in your power to encourage the life that is even now forming in many to come to fruition, to share in this great moment in our nation’s history. We all know the times are difficult and no one will escape the trials at hand. Just as this is true, so is the gift and privilege we have to live it. May the millions of unborn get this chance as well. May the virtue of responsibility reign as mothers choose to carry the fruit of their wombs to term, to give the gift of life to another. I ask, President Obama, that you would prayerfully consider your pay grade since indeed it has now risen at this moment in our history. May you be the champion of all those who are weak yet share the same right to life.
May God bless you and your beautiful family.
Sincerely,
Margaret Buckley

Vote Vote Vote...Pray Pray Pray

2008-11-04T14:33:00.003-06:00

I went this morning to vote before work and taking Punky to school. She went with me.

This is my third presidential election which I have voted. I never took it too seriously...However, with this election between Barack Obama and John McCain, I have never been more aware of how big a privilege and responsibility this is-as an American and as a Christian. As I was walking out of the school where I voted, I got tears in my eyes. God really placed on my heart the fact that I am very blessed to live in this country. I have the privilege and right to vote however I want, without fear of persecution. I thanked God right there while walking to the car for allowing me to do this. I also prayed...prayed for the country to turn to God, prayed that whoever wins the election would be right for our country, and that God would use him. Our country needs that.

Trick or Treat!

2008-11-01T13:10:00.004-05:00

Here are some pics from last night...we had so many people to see that we didn't even make it everywhere we wanted to go. It was a fun night with LOTS of candy. Punky was Dorothy and Buddy was Tigger...so cute!

Make it stop!

2008-10-30T12:40:00.002-05:00

I am so tired of election buzz, talk, video, comments, slams, and opinions. I am ready for this election to be over. I know who I am going to vote for and don't need to hear any more.

I urge everyone to seriously pray...pray that God will continue to bless our country and that the candidate of HIS CHOOSING would be elected. Pray for wisdom as you vote, AND VOTE!!! It is such a privilege to be able to vote. And while not everyone agrees as to who the right candidate is, that is okay. It is the beauty of this country. I am truly thankful to live here.

The Invisible Woman

2008-10-28T12:39:00.001-05:00

I know anyone out there that is a mom can understand what it is like to be the invisible woman. I feel so often that I am doing so much and no one sees. I came across this you tube video and it really spoke to my heart about what it really means to serve God by serving your family. It is only 5 minutes and is definitely worth the time...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YU0aNAHXP0

Bad Morning

2008-10-21T20:13:00.002-05:00

So, it is probably not a surprise to the people that know me, but I hate mornings...I hate getting up, I hate getting ready for the day, I hate having to be on time to get somewhere so early.

So, the last few mornings, I have had to get Punky to the babysitter early because Hubby had to teach a class at work. I found myself getting frustrated and stressed, all by 7:30 a.m. So, one of those mornings, I had been impatient with Punky, she had made me late, and I was simply enjoying the quietness in the car on the way to the sitter. We passed a grain elevator that had some sort of a smoke stack with smoke billowing out of it. Punky said, "Look MAMA! They are making breakfast!" It just made me think how much I over think, over do, over analyze, and get overly frustrated about things and then Punky brings me back to reality...there is happiness in seeing the small stuff. I have to remember that.

The worst question you could ask...

2008-10-14T13:29:00.004-05:00

Ok...so, I know I should have a much better attitude than this, but I really can't help it...

My cousin got married last weekend and had such a beautiful wedding! (Congrats Lisa & Jeremy!) However, my sister warned her that as soon as she got married, it would start...the constant nagging and people asking "when are you going to have a baby?" It actually did start for her at the shower we went to. I just don't understand why people have to ask. It hurts. A lot for some people. I will explain...

When hubby and I were first married, we knew we wanted children, but in our timing. In God's timing. Not everyone else's. So, we made the decision that when we started trying to get pregnant, we weren't going to tell people we were trying. We still heard it from many people. It took us about a year and a half to get pregnant with Punky so we are so glad we didn't tell people! However, it did hurt when people were asking us when we were going to have one. We would just say "sometime!" and leave it at that, but it hurt that we really didn't know when or if it would happen.

We made the mistake of telling people this time that we are trying and it has taken over a year with no luck. Now, not only are we getting the question "when are you going to have another one?", but we are also getting, "you need to get working on a second one" or "Punky is getting pretty old..." OR people are now starting to give us tips as to how to get pregnant. It still hurts. It's not like we don't know how to get pregnant...we have had one child. So why is it such a big deal to people?

There is no good reason to ask someone when they are going to have kids. If they want kids, it means the timing isn't right or they can't get pregnant. If they don't want kids, then they don't want kids, and that should be okay too. Either way, it is uncomfortable and it hurts. I know someone who has no kids, but wants kids with all her heart, but has had a miscarriage (that she hasn't let anyone know about). People are constantly asking her when...when...when...and it hurts.

So, the next time you are about to ask someone that question, stop...think...maybe that person is going through something you don't know about and it may hurt them. Instead, pray for them...for the mother, for the couple, for the marriage, that God would give them children in His timing. If we are truly relying on Him, then we don't need to ask when when when. It will happen when it is supposed to. I have truly given our children (yes, the one we have, and the one(s) we hope to have) over to God. I have peace in my heart that it will happen when it is supposed to happen. I am excited to think about Punky being old enough to remember a new baby (I don't remember my sister as a baby)...to help care for it and love it...to protect it and be a good big sister example. I am glad we will be past the baby stage with one, so that the baby stage with the second is that much sweeter... And if it doesn't happen again, then I am abundantly thankful that I have one beautiful, healthy little girl, as there are others that don't have any.

Morning Cuddles

2008-10-09T16:41:00.003-05:00

Punky will usually come into bed with me when she wakes up in the morning (Hubby gets up WAY to early). She has said, "Mama, I like getting in your bed in the morning...your body is so warm!" Too cute.

Well the other morning, she came into our bed and cuddled up next to me. She said, "Mama, I've been thinking. When a baby comes to live at our house, I am going to show her my toy room and my bedroom!" I told her that was great and that it would be good for her to share her toys. She said, "and I will help her go down the stairs! Maybe she could play with me!" I said that yes, a baby would need help going down the stairs and I am sure she would love to play. I said that Punky would have to be a good big sister and big helper because we would have to feed the baby. She said, "and change her diaper." Then she asked if baby Sarah (who was adopted from Guatemala by a family in our church and whom Punky LOVES) could come to our house. I think Punky thinks you just go and pick your baby and bring them home! It made me kind of sad to think that she is waiting so hard for a baby. I told her we have to keep praying that God would send a baby to our house, and she agreed, then moved on to the next subject. How sweet and innocent...too cute for words. I am so thankful for morning cuddles, as I know they will not last forever.

Whoa!

2008-10-07T12:36:00.006-05:00

A month? It has really been a month since I last posted...sorry all...I will try to do better. Here is a glimpse as to what we have been doing...

Punky loves school and her new sitter. She does so well at both. I am so very thankful I was able to change my work hours so that I can take and pick Punky up from school. Hubby and I have said many times that it is our desire to be able to always take and pick our kids up from school. Punky had her first show and tell and got to take treats to the class...she chose mint green Oreos since they are learning about circles this month and it was wear green day. She took her little stuffed Dolphin to show the class.

We went to the orchard again this year, this time with Buddy! The kids had a ball...

We went on a family trip to Wisconsin Dells with Hubby's parents, grandparents and sister. We visited the indoor water parks and Punky loved it...it took her a while to be brave and get in the water toys, but once she went down the slide, she was hooked.

We found out Punky is going to have a new cousin! We are so excited for Hubby's brother and sister in law...and Punky was a little confused when I told her there was a baby in Aunt Uh-coles belly...Actually, two new cousins, as one of Hubby's cousin's also found out they are expecting their second...we are so happy for all of you! :)

We have been attending 8 nights of revival meetings at our church. I was a little skeptical at first, but they have turned out to be incredible. Hubby and I have really seen God work and know that He has spoken directly to us about issues in our lives, individually, in our marriage, and in our parenting. I know God has been working, because Satan has been working overtime! I am so thankful for a Bible-believing church that is not afraid to let you know the truth, even though it may hurt.

My sis's birthday was exciting...we surprised her by taking Buddy to her work and having lunch with her. She was so surprised and I think she had a great day...my baby sister is 28!!!!

Hubby may be buying a new car...more details on that to follow...

The next few weeks will be just as busy...church has started on Wednesday nights, Hubby has soccer games, we have two birthday parties, a shower, a wedding and Halloween to prepare for. I will try to keep you posted!

Oh...and here are the mischievious little toots the other day while I was babysitting...

(notice the pnut butter on Punky's face...nice...)

Incredible

2008-09-07T19:49:00.002-05:00

Our pastor played this in church a few weeks ago and I found it on You Tube...if you have never heard it, YOU HAVE TO!

That's My King!
S.M. Lockridge

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX_7j32zgNw

Preschool!

2008-09-02T13:06:00.007-05:00

Today was the first day of Preschool for Punky! Hard to believe. She went to bed last night excited about it and it was the first thing she talked about this morning. She couldn't wait to get out of the house this morning to go. She was ready with her backpack on before it was even time to go. That is an answer to prayer.

We left the house and drove to school. Punky was not the least bit nervous...but I was!!! I oddly felt a lot of old feelings well up inside of me...I almost felt like I was starting my first day of school! I can remember doing that as clear as day, and couldn't help but feel that way now. When we got there, the parking lot had many cars in it. Punky said, "Look mama! There are lots of kids here to be in MY class! Don't worry, I won't cry!" I walked her to the front door and asked her to stand in front of a plant so that I could take her picture. She sighed and said, "No, mama, we need to go inside."

I managed to coax her into letting me snap one shot and then we went inside. Once in her room, I took a couple more pictures of her in her classroom, and she was off, playing with the other kids.

Her teacher seems exceptionally nice and was so cute...she went up to Punky, got down on her level and asked her name and introduced herself. Punky actually talked to her and seemed very comfortable with her. I think this will be a great experience for Punky and ease her into real school (K4) next year. Wow!

School Supplies

2008-09-01T23:00:00.003-05:00

We made the big trip to Wal-mart to get Punky's school supplies...she is so excited to start school! I can't believe she is going to preschool...where has the time gone? Of course, I had to document the big occasion with some pictures.

I'll let you know how the first day goes!!!

End of Summer

2008-09-01T21:11:00.007-05:00

Well, I think I have to say that summer is officially over in our house. Our sitter for the summer, who we will greatly miss is done watching Punky and we start a new sitter this week (which was a wonderful answer to prayer)! Here are a few fun pics I have taken over the last few weeks...

Hubby likes to draw pics for Punky in the tub...somehow it even ended up on her back...

Punky loves corn on the cob...

Punky and Grandma!

Good by, summer. It was a lot of fun, but now it is on to my favorite season...FALL!

Smarty Pants

2008-08-30T11:08:00.004-05:00

Well, it seems I have not been doing well at updating my blog as of late...I will try to do better.

Punky was jumping on the bed the other day (something we don't allow, since Hubby broke his collar bone as a small child by jumping and falling off the bed). I told her to stop jumping and sit on the bed and she cleverly said, "Mommy, I can jump on the bed, it is good exercise for me!" She now has a response for EVERYTHING!

Backstreet Boys Rock!

2008-08-23T13:59:00.004-05:00

So, yes, at first I was a little embarrassed to admit I was going to see a Backstreet Boys concert with my sister. She said, "We need a girl's night out and they are going to be in our town...we should go!" I agreed, not sure what it would be like, but at least I knew a few of their songs and thought it would be entertaining to watch all of the girls that were in attendence. I also thought that it would be a little disappointing because they are so old, but then I investigated and found that they are actually not that much older than me. YIKES!

Entertaining it was. As we were sitting there waiting for the boys to make their appearance, the girls in the audience were hilarious. Every time they would see a foot under the black curtain or a security guard walk around from the side of the stage, an eruption of high pitched teen girl screams would begin, only to stop a few seconds later when they realized it was not a BSB. However, we think it was AJ that actually walked down one of the halls/aisles and jumped out, waved, and then darted back out of sight (the girls went crazy). We then also saw him again in a high section of the back part of the stage, trying to get the girls to scream. It was quite entertaining.

Then, when the show started, the girls went absolutely out of control. I have been to concerts in my day, but have never heard screaming like that. Crazy. I do have to admit that it was an absolutely incredible concert. They played right through their intermission and I think we decided they changed their clothes at least 8 times during the concert. It was WOW! It definitely made me want to go out and buy their new CD (which, I don't own ANY of their CD's, but I want to now).

Both me and my sister agreed that if they are EVER near us again, we will pay to see them (these tickets were free thanks to my sis-in-law). And yes, I will drag Hubby to the next one! All in all, best girls night out I have ever had...it was AWESOME!

Wait

2008-08-21T20:16:00.001-05:00

We have been waiting for God's answers on a few issues in our family. I came across this poem from a friend's blog...it is incredible.

Wait
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried.
Quietly, patiently, lovingly, He replied.I pleaded, and I wept for a clue to my fate,
And the Master so gently said, “Child, you must wait.”
“Wait? You say wait?” my indignant reply.
“Lord, I need answers, I need to know why.Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?
By faith I have asked, and I’m claiming your Word.
“My future, and all to which I can relate
Hangs in balance, and you tell me ‘wait’?I’m needing a ‘yes’, a go-ahead sign,
Or even a ‘no’, to which I can resign.
“And Lord, you have promised that if we believe,
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.And Lord I’ve been asking, and this is my cry:
I’m weary of asking: I need a reply!”
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
As my Master replied once again, “You must wait.”
So I slumped in my chair; defeated and taut
And grumbled to God; “So I’m waiting, for what?”He seemed then to kneel and His eyes met with mine
And He tenderly said, “I could give you a sign.I could shake the heavens, darken the sun,
Raise the dead, cause the mountains to run.
“All you see I could give, and pleased you would be.
You would have what you want, but you wouldn’t know Me.You’d not know the depth of My love for each saint;
You’d not know the power that I give to the faint.
“You’d not learn to see through clouds of despair;
You’d not learn to trust, just by knowing I’m there.You’d not know the joy of resting in Me,
When darkness and silence was all you could see.
“You would never experience that fullness of love
As the peace of My Spirit descends like a dove.You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,
But you’d not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
“The glow of My comfort late in the night;
The faith that I give when you walk without sight;The depth that’s beyond getting just what you ask
From an infinite God who makes what you have last.
“And you never would know, should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that ‘My grace is sufficient for thee’.Yes, your dreams for that loved one o’ernight could come true,
But the loss! If you lost what I’m doing in you.
“So be silent, my child, and in time you will seeThat the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me.And though oft’ may My answers seem terribly late,My most precious answer of all...is still...wait.”-Russel Kelfer

Line

2008-08-20T23:37:00.002-05:00

My sister forwarded me an email, and this was the last line...I thought it was pretty powerful...

'Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.'

Spicy

2008-08-16T21:43:00.003-05:00

So, we generally do not give Punky pop to drink...only on rare occasion. Today we were eating at a restaurant and all we had was pop, so we gave her a little in her cup. Of course, she loved it and wanted to drink that instead of eating. We coaxed her into taking a bite each time she wanted a drink. The fizz on her tongue must have felt very weird, because she would take a drink, smile and then say, "My drink is spicy!"

I was just thinking today that this is my favorite age...she knows a lot of words and can fully communicate. She has her own definite personality, feelings, opinions, desires and dreams, but she is still little enough that what she says and does is still cute. Even saying the most common thing is priceless. I am so thankful for her and that she is healthy, smart, and happy. Her favorite song right now is "And I'm so happy, so very happy, I've got the love of Jesus in my heart!"

Bob Costas Says It All...

2008-08-11T18:54:00.002-05:00

Hubby and I love to watch the Olympics...It was 4 years ago (I can't BELIEVE it!) that we were watching the Olympics, me pregnant with Punky, and we found her name. It was the first (and I think only) name that as soon as we both heard it, we knew we BOTH liked it. Ahhh, memories...

We are big Michael Phelps fans and are so excited he is winning! Unfortunately, we both fell asleep last night before his team swim came on...You Tube, here we come!

I have to say, every Olympics, the announcers say something so incredibly stupid, I just laugh and laugh. Well, I have heard it already. During Michael Phelps first swim, the announcer was saying what an incredible swimmer he is and comparing him to Tiger Woods (not sure how that came about). Anyway, the announcer says, "Phelps is Tiger in a speedo!" I could tell as soon as he said it, he regretted it, and he immediately started talking about something else. Ugh! I am sure Phelps and Tiger cringed at that one!

Lucky #7!

2008-08-04T20:48:00.002-05:00

Today is Hubby & my 7th wedding anniversary! Tonight, sis offered to watch Punky so we could go out to dinner-just the two of us! We went out and had a wonderful dinner together and actually got to talk with out being interrupted constantly or having to cut up someone else's food. I feel so blessed to have him by my side. I love you Hubby and thank God for you. You are the best!

Where has the time gone?

2008-07-31T14:23:00.003-05:00

I know, I know, it has been forever since I last posted. Here is a little of what has been going on:

Hubby went to New York with NYC Ministries and helped with the soccer camp for inter-city kids. He had a lot of fun and was safe and sound. It is good to have him back.
Punky is a little stinker...she surprises us more every day.
We are still looking for a babysitter for the fall...I have a few people who want to do it, but I either don't know them, or they live so far away, that it would be awful even thinking about taking her there and picking her up there every day. I am still praying to find someone close to our house, that we know, or that will come to our house like Julie did. Yikes!
Hubby turned the big 2-9 on Monday. Happy Birthday babe!

That's about it. Have a good day!

Today...

2008-07-14T19:14:00.001-05:00

I think I worked 11 hours today...is that crazy?

Sunday Fun

2008-07-13T21:09:00.004-05:00

We got up this morning and went to church. Punky looked so adorable in her little dress and white shoes, that I had to take a picture. Actually, her hair was behaving itself too and she just looked like my little sunshine.

We also went swimming/boating with our best friends, the "L" family. Punky always has fun with her buddies. She did great in the life jacket swimming around and really seemed to like the boat. I got a little sun burned, but just enough that I think it will turn into a good tan. The weather was beautiful!

Swingsets & Bedrooms

2008-07-08T14:38:00.008-05:00

So, after a lot of hard work on the part of Hubby, we finally got Punky's swingset. It took his whole day off to get it together, but it was worth it. Punky absolutely loves it and has so much fun.

I have also finally completed her bedroom...

It is not exactly what I had envisioned, but Punky picked her princess bedspread (I really tried to talk her out of it) and that is what we went with. I agreed a long time ago that it was her room and I would let her pick out what we put in it.

4th of July

2008-07-08T14:01:00.009-05:00

We had a great 4th of July...

In the morning, we went to the parade in Towanda with Sis and her fam and Grammy & Grampy...Punky and Buddy loved it and got a ton of candy.

We then had everyone over for a cookout. We were so glad Uncle Teeb and Aunt Uh-cole were here for a visit! Oh, and don't forget the Smudge! Punky loved having a dog for a couple of days and would even sit on the floor and just put her little arm around him and say "Don't worry, they will be back...don't cry!" (He got upset when they left to see a friend).

We can see the fireworks from our front yard, pretty big in fact. I have to say the music on the radio that was meant to accompany was pretty bad, but all in all it was a fun day. The weather was absolutely perfection, and I am so thankful for that! We could not have asked for a nicer day.

No More Diapers!

2008-06-28T17:16:00.002-05:00

We have finally reached the point of no more diapers (actually, for a few weeks now). She has been doing very well and getting through the night with no accidents. (for probably the last six months we have still put a diaper on her at night only because every third night or so, she would wet).

I am so proud of my little Punky and am amazed at how fast she is growing up! This last Thursday, I signed her up for preschool!!!! She is so ready and is excited. I know she will like it.

The Fern and the Bamboo

2008-06-26T15:08:00.000-05:00

I found this poem and really loved its message...

One day I decided to quit.I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality.I wanted to quit my life.I went to the woods to have one last talk with God."God", I asked. "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"His answer surprised me."Look around", He said."Do you see the fern and the bamboo?""Yes", I replied."When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds,I took very good care of them.I gave them light. I gave them water.The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor.Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed.But I did not quit on the bamboo.""In the second yearThe Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed.But I did not quit on the bamboo"."In the third year,There was still nothing from the bamboo seed.But I would not quit.In the fourth year,Again, there was still nothingfrom the bamboo seed.Yet I would not quit.""Then in the fifth year, he continuedA tiny sprout emerged from the earth.Compared to the fern it was seeminglySmall and insignificant.""But just 6 months later the bamboorose to over 100 feet tall.It had spent the five years growing roots.Those roots made it strong andgave it what it needed to survive.I would not give any of my creationsA challenge it could not handle."Then He said to me."Did you know, my child,that all this time you have been struggling,you have actually been growing roots?I would not quit on the bamboo.I will never quit on you.Don't compare yourself to others."He continued,"The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern,yet, they both make the forest beautiful.Your time will come," God said."You will rise high!""How high should I rise?" I asked."How high will the bamboo rise?"He asked in return."As high as it can?" I questioned."Yes." He said,"Give me glory by rising as high as you can."~ ~ ~Never regret a day in your life.Good days give you Happiness.Bad days give you Experiences.Both are essential to life.Keep going, DON'T QUIT!GOD is too wise to be mistaken.And too good to be unkind...So when you don't understand..When you don't see HIS plan...When you can't trace HIS hand...HAVE FAITH AND TRUST HIS HEART

Feature Presentation

2008-06-23T20:43:00.008-05:00

Punky has now entered the wonderful world of Mary Poppins. I am so excited. This was one of my favorite movies as a kid (and still is) and my sister and I watched it over and over again. I had thought a few weeks ago that Haven would probably be at the right age for it, and last weekend Aunt K had it on TV and Punky liked it. I just happened to find a copy of it and now Punky has watched it too many times to count. Even Hubby has gotten into the Mary Poppins festivities.

In fact, just tonight in the car, I heard her singing..."Chim-chiminy, chim-chiminy, chim chim cherroo..." Too cute. My baby is growing up.

Also on the movie subject...I have decided that there are no good current movies out there right now for me, so I am going to start in on some oldies but goodies. A few that are on my list to see that I have never seen are: Rear Window, Casablanca, Singin in the Rain, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (I like Jimmy Stewart), Citizen Kane, and It Happened One Night. If anyone has any other suggestions, let me know!!!

Just a toot...

2008-06-13T20:33:00.002-05:00

So, Punky has had this habit now of telling me when we are out in public "I have to go potty!" So we race off to whatever nasty bathroom we are nearest to and once I have the toilet covered in paper and sit her little butt on it (or hold her over it) she then says "I don't have to go". Makes me furious.

The other evening we were in Menards and she said "I have to go potty!" I asked twice, are you sure you have to go and she said yes. So as we are walking quickly toward the bathroom, I say, "Pee, or poop" (you know, to mentally prepare for what I have to go through in the bathroom) and she says poop. Great.

So as we are walking I ask her again "do you have to go?" She says "no". I ask her two more times, "Are you sure...you don't have to go?" and she finally says, "No mama, it was just a toot!"

UGH!!! If she weren't so darn cute...

And then I realize how blessed I am...how many women out there wish with all their heart they had a little girl to take to the potty...the parents who have lost a child and would give anything to take their kid to the bathroom EVERYWHERE they go. And I send up a prayer of thanks that I have such a wonderful little "Toot".

Wonderful Day

2008-06-10T14:35:00.008-05:00

So today I had the afternoon off and decided to have a special afternoon with Punky (not that every day isn't special, you know). I picked her up and asked her if she wanted lunch. She said no (as usual). Then I said...OK, but I was thinking we could take pnut butter and jelly sandwiches to the park for a picnic... I heard her gasp and she said OH, let's do that!

So Punky helped me make (a mess) sandwiches and we headed off walking to the park. It is a good 3/4 mile away, so she rode in the stroller. We arrived and started eating our pnut butter and jelly
and Punky's favorite, white cheddar Cheetos.

We then preceeded to play...

And then the dreaded words...POTTY.

You can tell by the looks of the outside of the place how nice the inside was-trust me. And, as she has done before, after I get her in there, toilet all covered in toilet paper (I am a germ-a-phob), me holding her on the toilet breaking my back she says she doesn't have to go anymore. UGH! I never know when to believe her or not. Needless to say she got a little swat on the butt and a nice little lecture before we went back to playing.

Then the walk home, all was peaceful and this is how we returned home.

What a wonderful afternoon.

Daddy's Home!

2008-06-07T16:57:00.002-05:00

Hooray! We went to the airport today to pick up Hubby after being gone for a week in Orlando at a work conference! Punky was so excited to see him (she constantly asked when he was coming home).

Actually it was quite funny...last week when we dropped him off at the airport, Punky cried and cried and didn't want to leave him. When we pulled into the garage that night, she saw Hubby's car in the garage and gasped and said "Daddy came home!" I had to tell her no, that he wouldn't be home for awhile and then she was disappointed all over again.

So needless to say, we are both happy and thankful Hubby is back (although the house stayed a lot cleaner with him gone, but I am sure that is due to the fact that I had less laundry and didn't cook ANY meals. However, now the laundry is back in full force).

I need a vacation...

2008-06-05T20:42:00.002-05:00

...and we just got back two weeks ago...is there something wrong with that?

Yub

2008-06-03T20:54:00.002-05:00

Punky said the cutest thing tonight...she was picking out her treat for being a good girl and eating her supper...the conversation went something like this
"how about a donut?"
"No, that's not a treat mama"
"Fruit snacks?"
"No"
"Granola bar"
"Yes! well, no"
"Some mini cookies?"
"Yes yes yes! I yub them I yub them I yub them. Yayyyyyy!"

She can't say her L's or her V's very well, so love is yub. I am so thankful for yub.

Florida 2008

2008-05-27T08:49:00.001-05:00

So, I am going to write one REALLY long post to let you know what we did on our vacation.

Day 1

We left home at 10:00 pm on Thursday, May 15th, hoping the kids would sleep through the night in the car. They only slept about three hours. Did not go the way we planned. We arrived in Daytona around 6:00 pm, checked into our hotel, and went out to dinner. Everyone was tired, so we unpacked and went to bed.

Day 2

On Saturday, we had a beach/swim day...just lounged around. It was great!

Day 3

Hubby, Punky, and I traveled about two hours to Lakeland to visit our Aunt, Uncle, and cousins' church. We spent the day with them swimming and talking and then spent the night. GiGi is just Punky's age and Gannon was so fun to play with. Punky had fun swimming with them in their pool.

Day 4

Hubby, Punky and I spent the day in Orlando at the Florida Mall. It was huge and a lot of fun. We later met up with the rest of the fam at the Adidas Outlet and then to Downtown Disney...DD is one of my most favorite places, especially at night. The kids seemed to like it and we bought a few cool souveniers. The kids are just too cute.

Day 5

We had another beach day. We took some really cool pictures that morning, but not like what I wanted. I wanted some good family pictures, but Punky would not cooperate...they are the ones of her in the white dress.

Day 6

Disney World! We had such a great time! Even though it was about 95 degrees, the kids loved it. They met so many of the characters (they thought they were the REAL people) and had fun. I think they were the perfect age to go. The adults had fun too!

Day 7

Our last day there, we lounged some more and did a little shopping. We went and saw Indiana Jones in the theater. It was pretty good, but different from the rest (and Harrison Ford has definitely aged in the 20 years since the last one). It was so hard to pack up knowing we had the long car ride ahead of us!

Day 8

We started out around 9:30 a.m. leaving Daytona. We made our way home with a few stops along the way. The kids did not want to ride in the car, but overall did pretty well. We stopped overnight near Clarksville (I think) and then headed back out on the road Saturday morning. We arrived home around 7:30 in the evening, and we were all glad to be home! However, Punky did ask a few times to go over and play with Buddy on Sunday...I think they missed each other!

All in all it was a great, relaxing trip. I love the beach...I could go there every summer! I am very thankful for safety and good health (some of us caught a cold) and family fun.

We're Here!

2008-05-18T17:51:00.004-05:00

Hey, we have arrived in Florida (about 6:30 Friday night). We have already had so much fun...here is a recap:

Left home at 10pm Thursday with two tired kids and six tired adults.

Car #2 hit a deer laying in the rode...no damage that we see.

Kids did not like the idea of sleeping in the car...only got about 4 hours of sleep the entire 20 hours we were in the car.

Our hotel room is awesome...the resort has four pools, a lazy river, water slide...and THE BEACH! The kids loved it.

Ate dinner at Bubba Gumps...was yummy!

Traveled to Lakeland to see Dave, Lori, Gannon and Gianna. Swam in their pool and had fun catching up with them!

Tomorrow is Magic Kingdom...hope for good weather (and happy kids)!

Florida here we come...

2008-05-14T18:59:00.002-05:00

I am so excited...around this time tomorrow we will be getting ready to get in the car for the very long (and expensive) journey to Florida. I am so ready. I have a ton of stuff to do to get ready and even more to get done tomorrow at work before we leave. I am feeling the stress of the pre-vacation blues. I hate packing and getting ready to go...sometimes all of the effort at work to get ready to go makes the trip not even worth it...but I am sure this one will be great! We are so excited, and Punky cannot stop talking about the beach and seeing Cinderella's castle.

Graduation!

2008-05-10T21:33:00.002-05:00

Today my dad graduated from Seminary with a Master's Degree in Counseling. We are so proud of you! After 7 years of hard work (and too many papers to count!), it is finally done! I am the one that has typed all of his papers, so I am VERY glad he is done. It was a nice ceremony and we had a great turn out at the open house.

We love you, Dad!

You can't hide from the truth...

2008-04-27T22:47:00.004-05:00

Unfortunately, we are at that stage...the lying stage. Punky is learning the difference between lying and telling the truth. Well, she has been trying to get away with lying now.

So, as a background for this story, Punky loves "shakes". Basically, Ovaltine or Nesquick in milk is her favorite. It has added vitamins, so we try to let her have some each day if she is good. She asked for a strawberry one the other day, and Hubby was in the middle of something, so he said "wait a minute". Punky then proceeded to go into the kitchen, get the strawberry Nesquick out of the cabinet, open it, spill it, and eat the dry powder (yes, she could have choked to death!). She then went back to Hubby downstairs. He immediately knew what she had done, and asked her if she had eaten the shake powder. She said no. He asked her several times to make sure, and she ademately denied having anything to do with the powder...this is the face he saw....

They then proceeded back upstairs where Hubby found the open container and spilled powder. After asking a couple more times, Punky finally "fessed up". Hubby tried explaining what it meant to tell the truth...either she really doesn't quite get what lying is yet, or she is playing a very good game.

Has it been a week...?

2008-04-27T22:40:00.003-05:00

Yikes! Can't believe it has been a week since my last post...well here is a little bit about what has been going on with us...

Hubby is working on a project for Gma/Gpa R...putting a tile backsplash up in their kitchen. Should look really nice when it is all done!
Punky got a big girl bed...just one more piece and her room will be completely finished! (will post pictures of her new bed once it is done).
Went to a Casting Crowns concert this weekend...it was great...all of their songs are amazing and you could tell they really loved performing. I really need to buy their latest CD to enjoy it more.
Hubby is putting new shelving in the garage so that things can finally be clean and organized out there.
Hubby and Punky are getting over a cold they had this past week. Cousin Buddy had it too. Not fun, especially waking up in the middle of the night.
Clean house. Work. Clean house. Work...seems like that is all I do!!!

Hope your week was just as exciting as ours was!

Men just aren't Mama's...

2008-04-21T18:50:00.002-05:00

Well, Punky decided to get a spring cold...we have been so lucky all winter and she made it through only having one very mild cold. However, now she has a very stuffy nose and when that happens, she is not a happy girl. She cries and whines about her "boogies" and constantly wipes her nose to the point of it being raw under neath. This started yesterday.

So, we knew last night that she would be waking us up MANY times in the night. We agreed that since I had to work today and Hubby didn't, that he would get up with her. And, as I bet she would, Punky woke up in the night crying. Hubby promptly woke up and went in to her. I must have dozed back off, because I awoke around 12:30 to Hubby saying "what do I do now? She tosses and turns and cries and wipes and tosses and cries...I don't know what else to do." He had been laying with her and rubbing her back, but it just wasn't enough. So, I got up, made some warm milk, gave her some medicine, and rocked her back to sleep. She slept the rest of the night. I guess men just aren't mama's (and I wouldn't have it any other way)!

Sunday Project

2008-04-20T21:10:00.004-05:00

I am very proud of my latest project...I have been wanting and looking at small black tables in the stores, as I need one next to our recliner. However, most of you know I am too frugle to pay the $50 or more that I have been seeing. So, I had an old bedside/end table that I really did not like anymore, only becuase the wood was a dark brown and didn't match anything I had anymore and the knobs were quite old. So, I decided to see what I could do with it. For a grand total of $16, I painted it black and added new knobs to the front. Let me know what you think...

BEFORE...

AFTER...

Summer Clothes...

2008-04-20T21:06:00.002-05:00

Well, one thing I love about spring time is getting out all of our summer clothes (mine, not so much as most of them I found don't fit quite as nicely as I remembered them last year...and Hubby seems to like to wear his all year round). However, Punky is one spoiled little girl, and she has a ton of new clothes to wear this summer...I got these all on a garage sale two summers ago...one lady was selling all of her daughter's clothes, so I got all of Punky's last year summer clothes and this year all in one bundle. This doesn't even include what Gma Cox has stored for her! As you can see, she is in need of nothing...

We are very thankful for what we have!

Carnival

2008-04-14T22:09:00.006-05:00

Friday night we went to me and Hubby's high school for a carnival that the junior class puts on every year for kids. Punky was so excited when I told her where we were going. She got to play quite a few games and got a lot of candy.

This is the duck pond.

She finally got used to the inflated slide and bounce house as we were about to leave and ran out of tickets.

She LOVED petting the baby lamb "Peaches".

And finally, this one is for Grammy...she played an excellent game of bowling.

We have told Punky many times that this is where she will go to school and she is very excited. I am so thankful she is excited about school and hope she likes it.

Cooking Show

2008-04-07T18:51:00.002-05:00

Punky is all about playing "Cooking Show" with Mommy. Everytime I am in the kitchen she asks if she can help. Sometimes I don't really have anything for her to do, so I just dump some uncooked rice in a bowl and tell her to transfer it to another container with a spoon. She loves it, and I tell her she is doing such a great job and she thinks she is helping. She loves to make cookies, especially chocolate chip ones (half of the chips don't make it to the cookies).

I really don't like to cook, but I love being in the kitchen with my Punky. She makes life so entertaining!

Jackets instead of coats...

2008-04-06T21:51:00.002-05:00

Ahhh...it was so nice to be able to go outside with Punky, and not have to put on our big bulky coats. We were able to bribe Punky by saying if she ate lunch really well, that we would go to the park after nap time. Boy, did that work. She ate very well and immediately wanted to get in her bed so that we could go to the park. She had so much fun there, and I can tell she has grown since last fall because she is a pro at climbing all over the playground. When putting her to bed tonight, I asked her what her favorite part of today was, and she said "Playing at the park!" She then proceeded to tell me that she couldn't wait until it got warm so that we could build sand castles on the beach. She is as excited as I am about going on vacation!

Why is it at the first hint of warm weather (it was only 60 today) that you automatically see people in shorts and tank tops? What will they do when it is 100 out?

Going Organic

2008-03-29T21:26:00.020-05:00

Ok, so I am not switching EVERYTHING over to organic, but I have really been investigating and thinking about the quality of our food, and am going to try to buy organic when I can. I finally found organic milk at Meijer (it is double the price of regular milk), but I feel it is important so I am going to buy it and try to cut back on something else.

Here is a list I found online of the top twelve things you should buy organic if you can...Not all of us can afford to go 100% organic. The solution? Focus on just those foods that are laden with the highest amounts of pesticides, chemicals, additives and hormones and deploy your organic spending power on buying organic versions of these whenever possible.

Meat. There's the likelihood that chicken, pork, and cow feed is grown with the help of pesticides, antibiotics and chemicals. Similar to milk and milk-based dairy products, many chemical pesticides could end up in the animal, which may end up in you.

Milk. The fat in dairy products is another haven for pesticides, antibioltics, and bovine growth hormones. These get passed on to you through commercial milk, cheese, and butter. Organic dairies do not use chemicals or growth hormones like rGBH or rbST.

Coffee. Many of the beans you buy are grown in countries that don't regulate the use of chemicals and pesticides. Look for the Fair Trade Certified label on the coffee package or can; it will give you some assurance that chemicals and pesticides were not used on the plants.

Peaches. Forty-five different pesticides are regularly applied to these delicately skinned fruits in conventional orchards.

Apples. Scrubbing and peeling a fruit doesn't eliminate chemical residue completely so it's best to buy organic when it comes to apples. Organic apples taste sweeter than conventionally grown, too.

Peppers. Peppers have thin skins that don't offer much of a barrier to pesticides. They're one of the most heavily sprayed vegetables out there and may be coated with nearly 40 commonly used pesticides meant to keep them insect-free.

Celery. Celery has no protective skin, which makes it almost impossible to wash off the twenty-nine different chemicals that are used on conventional crops.

Strawberries. On average, strawberries receive a dose of up to 500 pounds of pesticides per acre. If you buy strawberries out of season, they're most likely imported from countries that use less-than-stringent regulations for pesticide use.

Lettuce. Leafy greens are frequently contaminated with what are considered the most potent pesticides used on food.

Grapes. Imported grapes run a much greater risk of contamination than those grown domestically. Vineyards can be sprayed with 35 different pesticides during different growth periods during the season and no amount of washing or peeling will eliminate contamination because of the grape's permeable thin skin.

Potatoes. America's popular spud ranks highest for pesticide residue. It may also be tainted by fungicides added to the soil for growing.

Tomatoes. The standard regimen of pesticides used on conventionally raised tomatoes numbers 30. Their easily punctured skins are no match for chemicals that will eventually permeate the whole tomato.

Dancin' with Cinderella

2008-03-25T12:54:00.003-05:00

I stumbled across this song today and absolutely love it...I can see Hubby dancing in the living room with Punky and this brings tears to my eyes. Somtimes it is hard when Punky is crying or not obeying to remember that she will not always be this little and she will grow up so fast.

Click HERE if you want to hear Steven Curtis Chapman explain why he wrote this and click HERE if you want to actually hear the song. It is wonderful. I am so thankful for my little Cinderella.

(This is Punky dressed up in my wedding dress.)

She spins and she sways to whatever song plays,

Without a care in the world.

And I'm sitting here wearing the weight of the world on my shoulders.

It's been a long day and there's still work to do,

She's pulling at me saying "Dad I need you!

There's a ball at the castle and I've been invited and I need to practice my dancin'"

"Oh please, daddy, please!"

Chorus:So I will dance with Cinderella

While she is here in my arms

'Cause I know something the prince never knew

Oh I will dance with Cinderella

I don't want to miss even one song

'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight

And she'll be gone.

Verse 2:She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed

She wants to know if I approve of the dress

She says, "Dad the prom is just one week away

And I need to practice my dancin'

"Oh please, daddy , please!"

Chorus:So I will dance with Cinderella

While she is here in my arms

'Cause I know something the prince never knew

Oh I will dance with Cinderella

I don't want to miss even one song

'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight

And she'll be gone

Verse 3:But she came home today with a ring on her hand

Just glowin' and tellin' us all they had planned

She says, "Dad the wedding's still six months away but I need to practice my dancin'

"Oh please, daddy , please!"

Chorus:So I will dance with Cinderella

While she is here in my arms

'Cause I know something the prince never knew

Oh I will dance with Cinderella

I don't want to miss even one song

'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight

And she'll be gone

Happy Easter (a day late)!

2008-03-24T20:08:00.004-05:00

Sorry, I meant to post Easter Greetings yesterday, but we were just way too busy (as all holidays seem to be nowadays.)

We have been trying to explain to Punky that Easter is when Jesus rose from the dead (a concept she doesn't quite get yet). So when I asked her what Jesus did on Easter, she said, "He found ALLLLLLL the eggs! Too cute.

Here is a picture of Punky in her Easter dress holding her new baby Jasmine, which was in her Easter basket. She looked very cute and even let me put her hair up for church!

Ten Things...

2008-03-21T17:16:00.006-05:00

Ten things I can't live without (in no particular order):

1. My computer...Blogging and email is so much fun...and now I have started Facebook...endless possibilities!

2. Baby wipes...Who knew how useful these would be! I use them for everything...cleaning the bathroom, wiping faces, cleaning hands...even the kitchen sink!

3. Hairspray...what did women do before it (or should I say, what did they look like!)?

4. Makeup...I would be a homebound hermit without that.

5. TV...I admit I don't watch nearly as much of it as I used to before Punky, but it is still addicting.

6. My minivan...it hauls so much stuff...very handy.

7. Chapstick...I would feel completely gross without it.

8. Milk...my most favorite drink.

9. My heating pad...no, they are not just for old people! They are the best invention ever...I can usually get rid of my headaches using it instead of taking medicine. (they are also good to heat up your bed before you get in it!)

10. Sweets...I have cravings EVERY DAY for something sweet, sometimes on more than one occasion. Since I have given up chocolate, I have to find other interesting ways to satisfy these cravings.

These may seem trivial, but I am so thankful I don't have to do without them. Email or leave a comment about the 10 things YOU can't live without!

Texas Friends

2008-03-20T20:43:00.005-05:00

Tuesday night Punky and I got together with my friend N and her adorable little girl H. N is one of my best friends from high school, but sadly for us moved to Texas. She was up for a visit, so we had a girls night (sorry for the rest of you CBA girls, you should have come!). It was fun and the girls really enjoyed playing together. H is so cute with her little glasses! Here are a few pics of the evening.

Summer

2008-03-20T20:21:00.003-05:00

Well, we have been struggling as of late knowing that we would be needing to find a new babysitter for Punky for the summer (our wonderful J will be moving out on her own in a few months and needs to get a "real" job~unfortunately, we can't pay her a ga-zillion dollars to keep her, or we would!). Please pray that she finds the perfect job! We knew we couldn't keep her forever, but hopefully she will still be able to watch Punky part of the time.

Our next door neighbor has been watching Punky a day and a half each week and Punky really likes it because she has a nine month old little boy. Punky is all about babies. However, her schedule is becoming crazy and she will only be available as a back up. So, I have had a few leads here and there as to someone that could watch Punky.

As a brief history lessen, our family has been VERY spoiled with J. Since Punky was almost 3 months old, J has been coming to our house each day instead of us having to take Punky out in the morning. What a blessing. It is so easy to just be able to leave the house knowing she is in good hands. Well, I was starting to think (and others have told me) that phase may be over and I will probably have to start taking her somewhere.

However, there is a girl Hubby and I went to high school with that lives just behind our house. Her sisters are younger (in college) and I have been told that one of them is looking for a summer babysitting job. I have called and talked with her and things look promising. She is interested. So, please be in prayer that things work out with this, so that we can continue to be spoiled (or should I say Blessed) by having someone come to our home.

Either way, we truly have been blessed with the people we have found to watch Punky. Also this year, I was able to find a wonderful family in our church that will watch Punky anytime I need them. So, I am definitely feeling better about this whole situation. I pray (and know) God will work all things together for good. I am so thankful He knows what is best for us.

Really?

2008-03-15T19:31:00.003-05:00

So, Hubby and I were talking and he brought up a very good point, one that I hadn't thought about...

I guess everyone is supposed to get "free money" in the mail courtesy of the U.S. government's economic stimulus package. Great! I will take it! I initially thought this was a good idea. However, do American's realize that all this money is going to be used for is gasoline!?!? It went up 50 cents just this last weekend...so really, the government is just feeding our gasoline habit. I am sure most everyone will not save the money they get for gas for their vehicles, but it is something to stop and think about...

All criticism aside, I am very thankful that I live in America. It truly is the best country in the world and I feel blessed to be here. God Bless America. We need it!!!

Busy Times...

2008-03-11T22:48:00.003-05:00

Sorry everyone...it has been a week since I last posted...we have been so busy, and when we aren't I feel like I am just catching up on the regular everyday tasks of life!

Punky said the cutest thing the other day...we were running an errand and I had a shirt and hooded sweatshirt on, so I didn't wear my coat. Punky said, "Mama, you forgot your coat!" I said it was okay and I didn't need it. She said, "Mama, you NEEEEED your coat!" I said no, I had a sweatshirt on. She sighed heavily (much like I do) and said, "Mama, this is NOT a good idea!" AAHHHH, sometimes it is the little people that teach us the most (and sometimes we don't realize what they pick up from us big people!)

I feel like I am surrounded by sickies...people with the flu and bad colds...I pray I do not get it, or especially that Punky does not catch any of this stuff. I am so thankful that we have been VERY healthy this winter, with only one round of a mild cold...I hope we make it to Spring!!!

Look at these!

2008-03-04T16:20:00.005-06:00

Someone I work with emailed me these pictures...they are amazing...babies made of frosting! I just want to kiss them! Too cute!

!!

2008-02-28T20:42:00.001-06:00

I found my first gray hair yesterday...I'm so sad. Oh well, at least Hubby got a lot more first!!!