Monday, November 1, 2010
Monday, July 19, 2010
Books and Rodeos
Scott was busy renewing his concealed carrier permit on Friday and Saturday, so the kids and I roughed it alone. Saturday we had a birthday party for some sweet friends and then hit the rodeo.
Going to the rodeo is just about the best thing in the world to a 3 year old boy. Sam loved it!!! He got all dressed up in his little wrangers, sparkly belt, boots. He was wide eyed the entire time, which was pretty amazing considering the rodeo started at 8 and he had been up all day.
The highlight of the show was the calf scramble. About halfway through the rodeo the announcer called all the kids 12 and under to the arena floor. Scott and I looked at each other and quickly decided that Sam was too little. However, when it registered with Sam that all the other kids were going...he declared that he was big enough. So, away Scott and Sam went.
Sam ran out to the middle of the arena with the other kids and they let two calves loose. The objective was to rip off the ribbon tied around the calves necks. Sam didn't get close enough to grab any ribbons, but he also didn't get trampled by a calf or another kid. I quickly declared him the cutest little cowboy in the group and thanked God that he wasn't hurt!
We spent Sunday at Huntsville State Park with Nana and Pops. They are camping there right now, so we went over for the day to play. We fished and hiked and ate food cooked over a campfire. Every one was exhausted last night and woke up this morning with hangovers from all the fun!
We've also been reading a lot lately and stumbled on some great books from our church library. They are part of a series called Building Christian Character. We are working to build foundations of theology with Sam, but sometimes things go awry.
For example....
Sam: "Mom, I have a tummy bug today."
Me: "Oh Sam, I'm sorry that your tummy is hurting."
Sam: "Mom, I think my tummy bug may eat Jesus up in my heart."
Sam: "Dad, did you know that God killed Jesus?"
Scott: long pause
Sam: "Yep, he killed him . Isn't that great?"
Sam: "Mom, Jesus lives in my heart."
Me: long pause
Sam: "Now he can't live in your heart anymore"
You can see our stellar parent skills on display in these moments!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Updates
It's July 15th, 2010. Summer if flying by too quickly.
Lots of thoughts today.
Too many to write.
Instead, a kid update.
Reagan is rocking along. She loves to play with Sam and is expressing herself more and more. Her verbal skills are improving, but she understand much more than she can say so we've been seeing the "terrible 2's" tantrums start. I'm wiser this time around and much more patient than I was with Sam. She is maybe the cutest thing I've ever seen. She still has Shirley Temple ringlets and random people seem insistent on touching her curls. I've perfected my "get your hands off my baby or I'm going to punch you in the face" look.
Reagan loves Scott. Both kids will yell "DAADDDDYYYY" as soon as they hear the garage door go up at night and they run to him. Reagan also loves to read. Gosse and Gerti is our current favorite.
Sam is our little cowboy. He has a new behavior chart and is working hard to earn his magnets each day. He is a smart little cookie and constantly amazes us with the things he picks up. This week he was playing and all of the sudden he broke out into tears. When asked what was wrong he said "I don't have a cow to rope and that makes me sad." Poor little guy, but hooray for emotional development. :)
Sam's favorite thing to do is work with daddy or pretend to shoot birds in the backyard. He might be a lawyer with all of the negotiating skills he's learning. An example...
Me: "Sam, it's time to go to bed."
Sam: "But, Mom. This is the choice. I stay up and watch a cartoon or I stay up and watch a cartoon. ok, ok, OK?"
And stay up he would...Sam is a night owl. Reagan goes to bed at 8 or she falls asleep wherever she is at 9. Sam would stay up until midnight if we let him. And truthfully, sometimes I do. Some of my favorite memories with him this summer include staying up late watching a movie together after Dad and Sister have gone to bed. Good, times.
It's hot in Texas right now. Blistering hot. We are surviving, but I'm already dreaming of fall.
I hope it's not fall when I do my next post!
Lots of thoughts today.
Too many to write.
Instead, a kid update.
Reagan is rocking along. She loves to play with Sam and is expressing herself more and more. Her verbal skills are improving, but she understand much more than she can say so we've been seeing the "terrible 2's" tantrums start. I'm wiser this time around and much more patient than I was with Sam. She is maybe the cutest thing I've ever seen. She still has Shirley Temple ringlets and random people seem insistent on touching her curls. I've perfected my "get your hands off my baby or I'm going to punch you in the face" look.
Reagan loves Scott. Both kids will yell "DAADDDDYYYY" as soon as they hear the garage door go up at night and they run to him. Reagan also loves to read. Gosse and Gerti is our current favorite.
Sam is our little cowboy. He has a new behavior chart and is working hard to earn his magnets each day. He is a smart little cookie and constantly amazes us with the things he picks up. This week he was playing and all of the sudden he broke out into tears. When asked what was wrong he said "I don't have a cow to rope and that makes me sad." Poor little guy, but hooray for emotional development. :)
Sam's favorite thing to do is work with daddy or pretend to shoot birds in the backyard. He might be a lawyer with all of the negotiating skills he's learning. An example...
Me: "Sam, it's time to go to bed."
Sam: "But, Mom. This is the choice. I stay up and watch a cartoon or I stay up and watch a cartoon. ok, ok, OK?"
And stay up he would...Sam is a night owl. Reagan goes to bed at 8 or she falls asleep wherever she is at 9. Sam would stay up until midnight if we let him. And truthfully, sometimes I do. Some of my favorite memories with him this summer include staying up late watching a movie together after Dad and Sister have gone to bed. Good, times.
It's hot in Texas right now. Blistering hot. We are surviving, but I'm already dreaming of fall.
I hope it's not fall when I do my next post!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Caged
This morning my pastor encouraged us to pick up a copy of Mark Batterson’s book “Wild Goose Chase” and return in the evening for the beginning of a study on the Holy Spirit and so I bought the book and took it home to read.
Scott and I spent the better part of an hour reading the book. I felt the Spirit move in my heart as I was challenged to think outside the cage of church. I felt challenged. I couldn’t wait for the study to begin.
We arrived and quickly discovered that we were outnumbered. We were outnumbered by old people. It was Sunday evening at 5:30 and these faithful followers of Christ were reporting for duty. We saw one other couple in the crowd that perhaps was under 40. Undeterred, I got my book and journal out. The Spirit was going to move. I was sure of it.
But then something tragic happened.
The doors were shut. The cage closed.
The service started.
The music minister did what he was supposed to do. He led us in 3 songs and told two bad jokes. He encouraged us once to think about God as we sang and then prepared the crowd that at our next meeting we would be learning a new song. Change can be hard, I guess.
Then the minister in charge of teaching for the night got up.
I’m not sure he got the right book. He talked about time management skills and making priorities for things in life that are important. He talked about schedules and how to budget our time. He provided 4 copies of some self help book on controlling urgency in our lives.
My husband yawned.
That afternoon when we were reading we couldn’t stop. We talked about scripture. We prayed.
As I realized that the minister was nearing the end of his time, I felt sad. We missed it. Again, we missed it. I wanted to scream out that time management is the very antithesis of the Holy Spirit. I wanted to demand to know when we would stop setting for milk and cry out for the meat of scripture.
I realized that in many ways Batterson has it right.
Church can cage in Christians in the same ways that guilt, fear, failure, responsibility, and assumptions can.
I want out of the cage.
Scott and I spent the better part of an hour reading the book. I felt the Spirit move in my heart as I was challenged to think outside the cage of church. I felt challenged. I couldn’t wait for the study to begin.
We arrived and quickly discovered that we were outnumbered. We were outnumbered by old people. It was Sunday evening at 5:30 and these faithful followers of Christ were reporting for duty. We saw one other couple in the crowd that perhaps was under 40. Undeterred, I got my book and journal out. The Spirit was going to move. I was sure of it.
But then something tragic happened.
The doors were shut. The cage closed.
The service started.
The music minister did what he was supposed to do. He led us in 3 songs and told two bad jokes. He encouraged us once to think about God as we sang and then prepared the crowd that at our next meeting we would be learning a new song. Change can be hard, I guess.
Then the minister in charge of teaching for the night got up.
I’m not sure he got the right book. He talked about time management skills and making priorities for things in life that are important. He talked about schedules and how to budget our time. He provided 4 copies of some self help book on controlling urgency in our lives.
My husband yawned.
That afternoon when we were reading we couldn’t stop. We talked about scripture. We prayed.
As I realized that the minister was nearing the end of his time, I felt sad. We missed it. Again, we missed it. I wanted to scream out that time management is the very antithesis of the Holy Spirit. I wanted to demand to know when we would stop setting for milk and cry out for the meat of scripture.
I realized that in many ways Batterson has it right.
Church can cage in Christians in the same ways that guilt, fear, failure, responsibility, and assumptions can.
I want out of the cage.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Bathing in the Backyard
Oh, how I wish I had stopped to snap some photos last night. But when you are running around the backyard with your 3 year old it's tough to remember things like that!
Last night Scott was able to come home from work early. We had dinner and then spent some time working in the garden. We trimmed our tomato plant, which is MASSIVE and watered newly planted squash and eggplant. Then we decided for a walk around the neighborhood.
Sam loves to ride his John Deer tractor, so he took the lead as our official "line leader." Being the line leader means that you get to be super bossy with the rest of the family making sure no one tries any funny business....like cutting. It's serious work.
We made it home which is a miracle in and of itself. Reagan usually becomes bored with riding at the halfway point and chooses to walk by herself. When you are 1 year old everything is big and exciting. Every rock. Every dirt pile. Every neighbor. You get the idea.
When we got home it was still warm outside and I was thinking about baths. So, despite protests from my husband, I stripped the kids and got out the water hose in the backyard. They ran around the yard and I hit them with the water, soaped them up, and rinsed. Reagan has too much Scott in her and decided this was no fun at all. So, she and Scott snuggled while Sam and I played. Sam has a little of his momma running through his veins. He loved the silliness. He ran around for almost 45 minutes. Part of that time he took the hose and in the end we both ended up soaked from head to toe.
I wish all that running meant that he fell right asleep, but no one was that lucky. I wasn't in the mood to fight bedtime so I opted for a camp out instead. We used the kitchen chairs to build our tent and then slept underneath it together. Of couse we didn't have to worry about bugs or wild animals...Sam had his trusted lantern on ALL NIGHT to keep them at bay!
What a great start to Mother's Day weekend!
Last night Scott was able to come home from work early. We had dinner and then spent some time working in the garden. We trimmed our tomato plant, which is MASSIVE and watered newly planted squash and eggplant. Then we decided for a walk around the neighborhood.
Sam loves to ride his John Deer tractor, so he took the lead as our official "line leader." Being the line leader means that you get to be super bossy with the rest of the family making sure no one tries any funny business....like cutting. It's serious work.
We made it home which is a miracle in and of itself. Reagan usually becomes bored with riding at the halfway point and chooses to walk by herself. When you are 1 year old everything is big and exciting. Every rock. Every dirt pile. Every neighbor. You get the idea.
When we got home it was still warm outside and I was thinking about baths. So, despite protests from my husband, I stripped the kids and got out the water hose in the backyard. They ran around the yard and I hit them with the water, soaped them up, and rinsed. Reagan has too much Scott in her and decided this was no fun at all. So, she and Scott snuggled while Sam and I played. Sam has a little of his momma running through his veins. He loved the silliness. He ran around for almost 45 minutes. Part of that time he took the hose and in the end we both ended up soaked from head to toe.
I wish all that running meant that he fell right asleep, but no one was that lucky. I wasn't in the mood to fight bedtime so I opted for a camp out instead. We used the kitchen chairs to build our tent and then slept underneath it together. Of couse we didn't have to worry about bugs or wild animals...Sam had his trusted lantern on ALL NIGHT to keep them at bay!
What a great start to Mother's Day weekend!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Adventures with farms and ice cream
Today the kids and I loaded up for some "mommy and me" fun. We headed over to Brenham to visit a local farmer who sells organic meats. Our grocery budget allowed us to only buy pastured eggs. The meats are just too expensive. But, I love these eggs. They seem to taste so much better than the ones I can find at the store. And really since I pay three times as much for them...they should be better for us!!!!
Sam put on his overalls and "work" boots for the trip. It's a long way to the farm though. He and Reagan watched a movie in the truck while we traveled. Once we got thre, they were thrilled to see all the animals and meet the "farmer."
When we finished it was about 15 till 11. I knew that the Blue Bell Creamery did tours during weekdays and we were close enough to try and make the 11:00 tour. We hurried and made it just in time! Both kids did great. Sam was especially good with listening and following my instructions. He's getting to be such a big kid.
We got to watch a short film. Thankfully, a VERY short film. I was very nervous about how long I could keep Reagan entertained during that!!! We also got to tour the factory. Ok, tour is a very loose sense of the word. We looked at three rooms, but we did get to see them making homemade vanilla (our favorite!!). It was interesting to see how all of the machines worked.
At the end of the tour we got to sample some ice cream. I got a rainbow sherbert and mint chocolate chip. I thought that Sam might like all the rainbow colors and maybe sherbert is a little better for you than full-fat ice cream. But no. He quickly figured out which one was best and proudly declared to the room that he would be eating the mint chocolate chip. Reagan was just in heaven getting to share with us!
On the way back home, I let the kids eat PB&J in the car. This was a horribly messy idea, but they loved it. Once home we cleaned up and napped.
I've been waking Sam up early from nap to help with evening routines. So, an hour later we were all up and headed to the park. We met Madison and her dad there and played for two very fast hours.
As we were leaving the park, Sam yelled out to Maddie. "I have something for you." He had found a stick that was apparently the treasure of the moment and he asked Jared to break it in half for Maddie and him. This moment started off so sweet. Sharing what's yours (I guess...) with a friend. Then at just the right moment...
"wait, Maddie. I need the bigger one." Sam made sure that he had the bigger of the two pieces of stick.
Sam put on his overalls and "work" boots for the trip. It's a long way to the farm though. He and Reagan watched a movie in the truck while we traveled. Once we got thre, they were thrilled to see all the animals and meet the "farmer."
When we finished it was about 15 till 11. I knew that the Blue Bell Creamery did tours during weekdays and we were close enough to try and make the 11:00 tour. We hurried and made it just in time! Both kids did great. Sam was especially good with listening and following my instructions. He's getting to be such a big kid.
We got to watch a short film. Thankfully, a VERY short film. I was very nervous about how long I could keep Reagan entertained during that!!! We also got to tour the factory. Ok, tour is a very loose sense of the word. We looked at three rooms, but we did get to see them making homemade vanilla (our favorite!!). It was interesting to see how all of the machines worked.
At the end of the tour we got to sample some ice cream. I got a rainbow sherbert and mint chocolate chip. I thought that Sam might like all the rainbow colors and maybe sherbert is a little better for you than full-fat ice cream. But no. He quickly figured out which one was best and proudly declared to the room that he would be eating the mint chocolate chip. Reagan was just in heaven getting to share with us!
On the way back home, I let the kids eat PB&J in the car. This was a horribly messy idea, but they loved it. Once home we cleaned up and napped.
I've been waking Sam up early from nap to help with evening routines. So, an hour later we were all up and headed to the park. We met Madison and her dad there and played for two very fast hours.
As we were leaving the park, Sam yelled out to Maddie. "I have something for you." He had found a stick that was apparently the treasure of the moment and he asked Jared to break it in half for Maddie and him. This moment started off so sweet. Sharing what's yours (I guess...) with a friend. Then at just the right moment...
"wait, Maddie. I need the bigger one." Sam made sure that he had the bigger of the two pieces of stick.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Today we...
...went to the grocery store and save 20 dollars using coupons.
...hit Walmart to score some laundry detergent for cheap. Ok, this was maybe the low point!
...went to Lowes to buy rakes for the kids to use on the yard. Sam's excitement was too much!
...cleaned the house
...did the laundry
...weeded the garden
...kissed lots of boo boos
...played in the playroom
...decided not to take a nap
...weeeded the garden
...ate dinner with dad who got to come home at 6! Yeah!
...bathed two kids
...had adult conversation
What a great day!
...hit Walmart to score some laundry detergent for cheap. Ok, this was maybe the low point!
...went to Lowes to buy rakes for the kids to use on the yard. Sam's excitement was too much!
...cleaned the house
...did the laundry
...weeded the garden
...kissed lots of boo boos
...played in the playroom
...decided not to take a nap
...weeeded the garden
...ate dinner with dad who got to come home at 6! Yeah!
...bathed two kids
...had adult conversation
What a great day!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Private
Well, I feel a little bipolar making my blog private again. This time I am leaving it private.
Moment of total honesty ahead.
I just discovered a blog where someone who knows my family was writing some very personal and altogether awful things. I get that not everyone loves my family. That's ok. Writing horrible things about us in a public forum...not ok.
So, I have been reminded of how public this blog really is. I don't want everyone in creation having access to pictures of my kids or reading about our struggles and joys as a family.
And I need to remember that being kind to others is the right thing to do. I need to be careful of how I talk and how I allow my children to talk (ok....Sam...Reagan is still working on putting two words together!!!:)
Moment of total honesty ahead.
I just discovered a blog where someone who knows my family was writing some very personal and altogether awful things. I get that not everyone loves my family. That's ok. Writing horrible things about us in a public forum...not ok.
So, I have been reminded of how public this blog really is. I don't want everyone in creation having access to pictures of my kids or reading about our struggles and joys as a family.
And I need to remember that being kind to others is the right thing to do. I need to be careful of how I talk and how I allow my children to talk (ok....Sam...Reagan is still working on putting two words together!!!:)
Monday, April 5, 2010
New Beginnings
How come new beginnings in the Lord always seem to come with tests? Oh yeah, the prunning of the bad stuff.
I'm believing today that God is great and His plan is better. It's better when things are going smoothly and it's better when things are getting rough.
In all things, we will give God praise.
I'm believing today that God is great and His plan is better. It's better when things are going smoothly and it's better when things are getting rough.
In all things, we will give God praise.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Potty and pacifier
I walk into the front bathroom to find both children trying to stand on the potty. Already this is not a good situation.
I pick up Reagan. Her hands are wet. I assume she's been playing in the potty.
Sam says "No, mama she was not in the potty."
I smile with relief.
Sam says "But her paci was."
"I pee pee Mama and I get some on the seat. So, I clean it off, but the pacy fell in the potty. Don't worry Mama I washed it off. See."
He then shows me how he took the paci, climbs up to the sink, and rinsed it off.
What a thoughtful big brother he is!
I pick up Reagan. Her hands are wet. I assume she's been playing in the potty.
Sam says "No, mama she was not in the potty."
I smile with relief.
Sam says "But her paci was."
"I pee pee Mama and I get some on the seat. So, I clean it off, but the pacy fell in the potty. Don't worry Mama I washed it off. See."
He then shows me how he took the paci, climbs up to the sink, and rinsed it off.
What a thoughtful big brother he is!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Run to CJane
I love blogs.
I love to read. Blogs allow me to read some great stuff in a short period of time.
I love to read. Blogs allow me to read some great stuff in a short period of time.
This is crucial when you are mostly reading when clients no-show appointments or between putting kids to sleep and passing out yourself.
I've been reading CJane and I love it. It's a thought creating kind of blog. Every day I snuggle up to my computer and I invite CJane on in for a moment.
Today she writes some wonderful stuff. I love her thoughts on womanhood...to me it's a beautiful summary of all things woman.
Don't walk...run on over to CJane Blog so that you can partake in this wonder. Be forwarned though...it's not for the weak. It will cause you to think. It might cause you to question. Like I said, it's the best kind of writing I know. I love it.
(I've added a button to my blog to help you find it)
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
31
In my head I am stuck at 28. When someone asks me my age, I immediately think "I'm 28." I have no idea how this happened, but it's true. In my imaginary world I will always be 28. But in the real world...the one with wrinkles and mineral based make up...I'm 31.
I am 31.
Wow and weird. Birthdays are times of reflection and I love to reflect. So, here's my life recap.
At 31 I feel like I am getting older. Like...I FEEL like I am getting older. I have wrinkles on my face, my hands look older, my butt is not in the right place and I've breastfed two babies which should tell you that nothing is in the right place anymore. I've been pregnant 4 times and carried two babies to term. My body feels tired at times and I think I know why.
At the same time I feel stronger. I feel more secure. Gone are the days of wondering who I am. Now, I know. I'm not sure that I always like that person, but at least I know who she is. I feel more confident. I have wonderful friendships with women that I talk to almost daily and some that I go months without talking to. I've become secure enough to end friendships that are not healthy and explore new ones.
I've grown to understand that some of the best things in life come from the most ugly circumstances. I've learned not to expect everything to work out.
I am a mother, but this is not my highest calling. I'm starting to get that now. Understanding that motherhood is not the "be all, end all" has helped me be a better mother. I love Sam and Reagan with all that I am.
I live in Texas. We talk about guns. A week or so ago a friend asked me if I could really shoot someone who might be trying to break into my home. My response was to ask if my babies were home. In her hypothetical situation she said yes. Without hesitation...yes...I would shoot someone. I would shoot someone; I would attempt to stop a moving bus; I would give my life. Literally, I would die for my children. Sobering to think about, but honest and real. Having children has given me a great understanding of God's love for me. No, motherhood is not my highest calling, but I feel so blessed to be called mom.
I am a wife. I once thought that I couldn't be a wife. The first time I tried it I let pride get in the way of choosing a husband. I had a legal certificate for marriage, but I didn't have a husband. My marriage to Scott has been healing for me in many ways, not the least of which is allowing me to move past the place of defining myself by my past. Scott encourages me to have the confidence to be bold and he challenges me to be authentic.
Sam planned a birthday party for me on Sunday. He was so excited and it was by far my happiest to date.
And I'm happy to report that my candles didn't set off the fire alarm. Here's hoping I have the same luck with 32.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Spring Garden
Sam went to Sulphur Spring a few weeks ago to spend some time on the "farm" with Nana and Pops and we used the opportunity to plant our spring garden.
It was fun to have Reagan for the weekend. She loved the extra attention from Mom and Dad.
Here's some shots from our adventure, maybe we'll actually get to eat some of the bounty from our garden later this summer.
It was fun to have Reagan for the weekend. She loved the extra attention from Mom and Dad.
Here's some shots from our adventure, maybe we'll actually get to eat some of the bounty from our garden later this summer.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thankful Thursday
Turns out I killed the worms. When I freed them into the garden, I thought that I was giving them a new life. Unfortunately, worms do not enjoy gardens and I've sinced learned that I most certainly sent them straight to their death. This is an unfortunate situation, but pretty much sums up the last week for me.
Things have been going along, but my attitude has been sinking lower and lower. I'm suddenly acutely aware of the injustice around me. I'm feeling unsettled. I have been kind enough though to share this poor attitude with those closest to me. Well, I got a memo last night from those dear people. They are tired of it and frankly so am I.
I think I need a little gratitude. You know, a little dose of reality that things 'ain't so bad.
I'm a self confessed blog stalker. It's a weird obsession. For example, I met a woman once at a mom's event. We shared a decent conversation, but no friendship sparked. She did, however, share her blog address with me. Today I could hardly call this person an associate much less a friend. But, I can tell you what her 4 year old looked like when he blew out the birthday candles at his birthday party last Saturday night. This is weird and when I think about it always makes me want to switch my blog back to private, but I digress.
Gratitude.
I need a little gratitude.
The point of my blog stalker rant was to share that I see these 'Thankful Thursday' posts. They seem nice and maybe a good way of starting my journey back to me. So, I'm doing it. My first 'Thankful Thursday' post.
My first list:
Things have been going along, but my attitude has been sinking lower and lower. I'm suddenly acutely aware of the injustice around me. I'm feeling unsettled. I have been kind enough though to share this poor attitude with those closest to me. Well, I got a memo last night from those dear people. They are tired of it and frankly so am I.
I think I need a little gratitude. You know, a little dose of reality that things 'ain't so bad.
I'm a self confessed blog stalker. It's a weird obsession. For example, I met a woman once at a mom's event. We shared a decent conversation, but no friendship sparked. She did, however, share her blog address with me. Today I could hardly call this person an associate much less a friend. But, I can tell you what her 4 year old looked like when he blew out the birthday candles at his birthday party last Saturday night. This is weird and when I think about it always makes me want to switch my blog back to private, but I digress.
Gratitude.
I need a little gratitude.
The point of my blog stalker rant was to share that I see these 'Thankful Thursday' posts. They seem nice and maybe a good way of starting my journey back to me. So, I'm doing it. My first 'Thankful Thursday' post.
My first list:
- The weather has been GORGEOUS! We've had dinner outside the last few nights. The kids love it. I love it.
- I'm thankful that Sam woke up today on his own. We had time to get ready slowly for the day and everyone was happy when we loaded up the car.
- While today I hate my job simply because I'm in the mood to crawl under the covers and do nothing....I'm grateful that I work part time and that this work covers our health insurance. I'm grateful that this insurance is good and I don't have to worry about how we will pay for doctors visits.
- Even though I dislike how early my husband leaves for work, I'm grateful that he has work to do.
- I'm grateful for fresca.
There...a list. A shallow list, but a list. I wouldn't call it a good start...but it's a start. Perhaps you can see that I'm reaching. Maybe reaching out will be the first step in returning to a place of gratitude. Well, it's better than nothing.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Thoughts
We have ear infections. There are 8 ears in our house. Three are infected. Not good...not good at all.
Lots of holding and cuddling. Lots of calm words. Lots of pudding. When your ear is sick your tummy feels bad, too. So, you can eat as much chocolate pudding as you want. My 1 year old will take 2 please. She'd like them at breakfast, lunch and dinner. But we have standards. You can only have so much pudding before someone shows up at your front door and screams in "feed the kid a vegetable, will 'ya!"
It's warming up in Central Texas. Welcome Spring! We missed you. Don't stay away so long next time.
Sam's worms are still living, but I know they are suffering. Should I care about suffering worms? I don't. Should I feel bad about that? I don't.
I'm feeling creative. Planting the spring garden this weekend. That should help. I like writing fragments of sentences but putting a capital letter at the beginning and a period at the end. We should love fragments, too.
I hate rules. I have to work on that. My kids hate rules, too. I need them to like rules.
5 years of wedded bliss. Why do people say 'wedded bliss'? Truth is it's been wedded exciting, boring, wonderful, trying, empowering, fearful, 'hang on for dear life', 'can you believe we did that' and 'lets do it all over again!" Bliss is too simple and overly wonderful. Sometimes the most wonderful part of it all is hidden in the most awful part of it all. That's weird, isn't it? And this paragraph is weird and tragic with all the grammatical errors. Should I care about that? I don't.
Lots of holding and cuddling. Lots of calm words. Lots of pudding. When your ear is sick your tummy feels bad, too. So, you can eat as much chocolate pudding as you want. My 1 year old will take 2 please. She'd like them at breakfast, lunch and dinner. But we have standards. You can only have so much pudding before someone shows up at your front door and screams in "feed the kid a vegetable, will 'ya!"
It's warming up in Central Texas. Welcome Spring! We missed you. Don't stay away so long next time.
Sam's worms are still living, but I know they are suffering. Should I care about suffering worms? I don't. Should I feel bad about that? I don't.
I'm feeling creative. Planting the spring garden this weekend. That should help. I like writing fragments of sentences but putting a capital letter at the beginning and a period at the end. We should love fragments, too.
I hate rules. I have to work on that. My kids hate rules, too. I need them to like rules.
5 years of wedded bliss. Why do people say 'wedded bliss'? Truth is it's been wedded exciting, boring, wonderful, trying, empowering, fearful, 'hang on for dear life', 'can you believe we did that' and 'lets do it all over again!" Bliss is too simple and overly wonderful. Sometimes the most wonderful part of it all is hidden in the most awful part of it all. That's weird, isn't it? And this paragraph is weird and tragic with all the grammatical errors. Should I care about that? I don't.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Family Camping Trip
One of our family goals this year is to spend some time vacationing as a family of four. I have lots of great memories vacationing with my family growing up and it's weird and fun to think about making some of those kinds of memories with Sam and Reagan.
Our first adventure was camping. We went to Huntsville State Park and it was a great location. The kids, especially, had fun. Scott and I learned that camping with two preschoolers is anything but relaxing! That being said we can't wait to plan our next trip.
One of my favorite memories was the first night. Reagan woke up at 4 a.m. ready to play. Since we were all basically sleeping in the same room - everyone woke up. You can't do much at 4 .am., so finally we put on the Cars movie. Reagan fell alseep and the rest of us quickly followed her lead. It was the first time we've all slept together and it was a sweet memory.
I've posted some pictures to capture the good times.
The kids got to make a special bed out of the kitchen table in the camper. They love to play together. I hope this stage lasts for awhile!
Reagan munched on some diced ham while brother and Dad went fishing.
Sam learned a lot about fire safety. He loved roasting his hot dog for lunch.
We went swinging....
'
We went fishing again! This kid loves to fish. Mostly, he loves to pick out the fattest, juiciest worm to have Dad put on the hook and then cast his rod a million times until the worm falls off from dizziness. We'll never catch an actual fish with Sam's current fishing method, but he has a lot of fun. I asked him if I could have his worms for my garden. He said "no." He's currently keeping them in our refridgerator. He asks to see them every day. I wonder how long worms can live in the fridge?
We even tried out the timer on our camera. Reagan thought it was loads of fun watching Daddy running back and forth from the picnic table to the camper!
Our first adventure was camping. We went to Huntsville State Park and it was a great location. The kids, especially, had fun. Scott and I learned that camping with two preschoolers is anything but relaxing! That being said we can't wait to plan our next trip.
One of my favorite memories was the first night. Reagan woke up at 4 a.m. ready to play. Since we were all basically sleeping in the same room - everyone woke up. You can't do much at 4 .am., so finally we put on the Cars movie. Reagan fell alseep and the rest of us quickly followed her lead. It was the first time we've all slept together and it was a sweet memory.
I've posted some pictures to capture the good times.
The kids got to make a special bed out of the kitchen table in the camper. They love to play together. I hope this stage lasts for awhile!
Reagan munched on some diced ham while brother and Dad went fishing.
Sam learned a lot about fire safety. He loved roasting his hot dog for lunch.
We went swinging....
'
...and found this cute little thing wandering around the park. 
We listened to a Park Ranger speak about alligators and Sam took a turn touching the baby alligator on display.
We listened to a Park Ranger speak about alligators and Sam took a turn touching the baby alligator on display.
We went fishing again! This kid loves to fish. Mostly, he loves to pick out the fattest, juiciest worm to have Dad put on the hook and then cast his rod a million times until the worm falls off from dizziness. We'll never catch an actual fish with Sam's current fishing method, but he has a lot of fun. I asked him if I could have his worms for my garden. He said "no." He's currently keeping them in our refridgerator. He asks to see them every day. I wonder how long worms can live in the fridge?
We even tried out the timer on our camera. Reagan thought it was loads of fun watching Daddy running back and forth from the picnic table to the camper!
...and that's the first official Kenley Family Camping Trip!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Go Aggies!
Today my husband got tickets to the Aggie basketball game. Let me clarify...the Aggie game of the season and did I mention that the tickets were for absolutely amazing seats. You know the kind of seats where you see the actual sweat beads on the players faces? Oh, and they were free.
When Scott called me this afternoon he asked if I wanted to go. But, he wasn't really asking me. I knew that deep down Scott has been dreaming of the day when he could take his son to events like this. Sam has been watching football and basketball with Scott at home for awhile, but they haven't been to a college game together. Besides the logistics of finding a sitter at the last minute, I really wanted Sam to go. Ok, maybe a small piece of me wanted to go. :)
I think one of the best parts of parenting is watching your spouses relationship with the kids. I really enjoy watching the pleasure that Scott gets from spending time with Sam. They watch sports or practice duck calls together. It's sweet and it's special.
So, here I am. Watching the game on television not because I'm interested in who wins, but trying to catch a glimpse of my boys cheering for the Ags together.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Never a dull moment...
From the bathroom....
Sam: Mom! Come look at my poop.
Me: Samuel, please just flush the toilet. I don't need to see it.
Sam: But Mom, it's A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! (Emphasis on the amazing part)
Sam: Mom! Come look at my poop.
Me: Samuel, please just flush the toilet. I don't need to see it.
Sam: But Mom, it's A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! (Emphasis on the amazing part)
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Hmmm....
I need to do an update. I have lots to write about and nothing to write about at the same time.
It's cold in Texas. We're all freezing, but it could be worse. My parents just went almost a week without electricty.
I'm listening to my washing machine die. Literally die right now as I type this. I don't think it is suppose to sound like a 747 taking off in our house. We need to buy a new one. But we are in super saver mode...that's code for "we ain't spending no money right now." We may have to break down and buy one. Confession...I want a red one and, if possible, I'm going to get one.
Sam turns 3 this week. I don't want him to turn 3. That means he's not a baby. Time goes too fast. Tonight at dinner he said "so Dad, how was your day?" He's getting so big.
Reagan has started climbing. CLIMBING!!!! Sam told me the other day that I need to come to the kitchen. So...I went. Reagan was on top of the table. Dear God...I died for a second with fear. She lived though and now has become my constant shadow. I can't let her out of my sight for a second.
Scott is busy. He's got the annual DU banquet this week and huge project for the city starting. The Lord's favor has been on our business. We have work which is such a good, good thing.
I am offcially in private practice. Whew...that's a big thought. My colleague and I are offering several groups. One is going to be an infertility support group. I can't believe that this dream is actually becoming a reality. And I'm writing a book. A book about the church. Unbelievably fun and frustrating at the same time.
Until next time blog world....
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Best Super Bowl Party EVER!!!
Reagan woke up sick this morning. The worst kind of sick...the throw up and other yucky stuff kind of sick.
We had plans to go to a Super Bowl party tonight. I was really excited because this is with a new group of friends and I'm just getting to know them. Anyway, I was looking forward to it.
But, then Reagan is sick.
So, Scott went and I stayed home with the kids. Sam and I just decided that we would have our own party.
We made a fun dinner and cheered for the Colts and the Saints depending on who had the ball. I know about as much about football as Sam does.
Reagan danced to the halftime show. Who were those performers? I have no idea. I couldn't really understand the words, which might have been a good thing.
Anyway...best super bowl party I've ever been to!
We had plans to go to a Super Bowl party tonight. I was really excited because this is with a new group of friends and I'm just getting to know them. Anyway, I was looking forward to it.
But, then Reagan is sick.
So, Scott went and I stayed home with the kids. Sam and I just decided that we would have our own party.
We made a fun dinner and cheered for the Colts and the Saints depending on who had the ball. I know about as much about football as Sam does.
Reagan danced to the halftime show. Who were those performers? I have no idea. I couldn't really understand the words, which might have been a good thing.
Anyway...best super bowl party I've ever been to!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
I should be sleeping...
...but I'm awake.
The kids went to bed on time tonight. I had a million things (okay 10) on my to-do list. But instead I turned on the fireplace (because that's how we roll in the Kenley Casa) and opened my laptop. I started reading.
I should have a read a good book. I should have surfed the latest drama surrounding Jay Leno. I could have even listened to the state of the union speech last night. All of those things (except maybe the union address) would have left me with less heartburn right now and probably even put me to sleep.
Instead I read about theology and baptist doctrine. I read the 1963 Baptist Faith and Message and compared it to the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message. I read different views on the idea of covering. I listened to two sermons by Paige Patterson - one of which included a serious directive regarding whether or not we should carry a bible in book form or electronic form to church. The end message of that discussion was somehow you are more serious about Jesus if you actually carry a traditional bible to church. Interesting...I wonder what that means for the dyslexic who can't read the bible they are carrying. I'm not sure, but I think this is certainly worthy of debate among serious Christians. Not.
I have to stop this. I have to stop caring about these things. But I can't seem to help myself. I have this overwhelming need to sift through the density of these debates trying to find where Jesus is. Sometimes I get so lost, which if baffling to me because these are my people. I grew up in a traditional southern baptist church. I came out of my mothers womb asking questions and that didn't stop during my church education. And because of those traits and good teachers I learned scripture. Never enough...it's never enough...I want to know more, but I'm grateful for those people who helped me learn the Word.
And ideas like reformed movements, fundamentalism, patriachy, complementarians and so on....well...it's hard to work through these ideas. Each leader is teaching from the bible....using the same scriptures...and defining inerrant in multiple ways. What is legalism and where is it in church today? It's too much for my mind to absorb. I feel like I'm drowning and can't catch a breath of air.
And then...
I read that a friend has cancer.
And my world stops for a moment. It stops long enough for the words of Jesus to come to my mind.
Matthew 22:37-40
37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Love.
Love God and love others. That is what Jesus said is worthy of our time.
These debates and discussions might be useful, but love is more important. These debates are devisive to the people of God. Rather than edifying each position seems bent in some ways to wound the opposite view. Washington DC has nothing on the kind of politics that I have read tonight.
I'm not going to stop reading. I believe that God may be using all this energy I have in this area for something. I'm preparing for something that I can't even describe right now. I'm confident of that.
But just when I needed it...God sent some perspective.
My friend is one story. There are so many more. People who sit in our churches. People who are hurting because of the laws we have created to earn righteousness. We've missed the point.
I need to love. I need to love by asking the questions and telling the stories. I need to love by remembering Christ's ultimate love for us in that while we were still sinners he laid down His life.
Perspective.
The kids went to bed on time tonight. I had a million things (okay 10) on my to-do list. But instead I turned on the fireplace (because that's how we roll in the Kenley Casa) and opened my laptop. I started reading.
I should have a read a good book. I should have surfed the latest drama surrounding Jay Leno. I could have even listened to the state of the union speech last night. All of those things (except maybe the union address) would have left me with less heartburn right now and probably even put me to sleep.
Instead I read about theology and baptist doctrine. I read the 1963 Baptist Faith and Message and compared it to the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message. I read different views on the idea of covering. I listened to two sermons by Paige Patterson - one of which included a serious directive regarding whether or not we should carry a bible in book form or electronic form to church. The end message of that discussion was somehow you are more serious about Jesus if you actually carry a traditional bible to church. Interesting...I wonder what that means for the dyslexic who can't read the bible they are carrying. I'm not sure, but I think this is certainly worthy of debate among serious Christians. Not.
I have to stop this. I have to stop caring about these things. But I can't seem to help myself. I have this overwhelming need to sift through the density of these debates trying to find where Jesus is. Sometimes I get so lost, which if baffling to me because these are my people. I grew up in a traditional southern baptist church. I came out of my mothers womb asking questions and that didn't stop during my church education. And because of those traits and good teachers I learned scripture. Never enough...it's never enough...I want to know more, but I'm grateful for those people who helped me learn the Word.
And ideas like reformed movements, fundamentalism, patriachy, complementarians and so on....well...it's hard to work through these ideas. Each leader is teaching from the bible....using the same scriptures...and defining inerrant in multiple ways. What is legalism and where is it in church today? It's too much for my mind to absorb. I feel like I'm drowning and can't catch a breath of air.
And then...
I read that a friend has cancer.
And my world stops for a moment. It stops long enough for the words of Jesus to come to my mind.
Matthew 22:37-40
37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Love.
Love God and love others. That is what Jesus said is worthy of our time.
These debates and discussions might be useful, but love is more important. These debates are devisive to the people of God. Rather than edifying each position seems bent in some ways to wound the opposite view. Washington DC has nothing on the kind of politics that I have read tonight.
I'm not going to stop reading. I believe that God may be using all this energy I have in this area for something. I'm preparing for something that I can't even describe right now. I'm confident of that.
But just when I needed it...God sent some perspective.
My friend is one story. There are so many more. People who sit in our churches. People who are hurting because of the laws we have created to earn righteousness. We've missed the point.
I need to love. I need to love by asking the questions and telling the stories. I need to love by remembering Christ's ultimate love for us in that while we were still sinners he laid down His life.
Perspective.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Sam's version of John 3:16
In the fall we began doing scripture memory as a family. During the day I talk to Sam about our verse and we practice at dinner time. We've been amazed at how quickly he can learn the verses. It helps, I think, that we come up with hand motions and little songs to help him. It can be really funny to watch us doing them, but he's getting the idea and that's what matters.
Anyway...we are working on John 3:16 right now.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son. Whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
I think I like Sam's version better:
"God so loves the world Him give Him only son. Whoever believes in Him...Him not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Anyway...we are working on John 3:16 right now.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son. Whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
I think I like Sam's version better:
"God so loves the world Him give Him only son. Whoever believes in Him...Him not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Monday, January 25, 2010
Christmas 2009
Playing in the sandbox on Christmas Day...
My boys...
Our annual Christmas Eve picture....
Sam told me what he wanted to write on the card to Santa and then he signed his name.
Christmas 2009 was so much fun. It was probably one of the best Decembers of our married life. We took things slow and said no to almost everything that was outside of direct family time. I didn't blog, Scott came home early from work, and we played so much! We made great memories. One of the things that helped was getting all of the shopping for Christmas done early. I'm not sure I'll ever be able to do it again, but it allowed us to focus on more on Jesus and less on the hustle of the season. Sweet, sweet memories. I wish we could go back and do it all over again and I'm already dreaming of what Christmas 2010 will be like!
Christmas Eve we went to the service at our church and then came home to celebrate with Nana and Pops. Scott made Hopkins County Stew and it was so yummy. The kids had a great time and it was special to share the holiday with Nana and Pops because it's the first time we have eer done that. After Nana and Pops left, we all put on our Christmas pjs and Sam set out cookies for Santa. We spent a lot of time talking about Santa this year...should we or shouldn't we. I love some of Noel Piper's thoughts on this. For us, we've chosen not to make it the focus of our celebration, but we are going to play along with Santa.
We woke up Christmas morning to share some sweet time as a family. We opened presents and ate breakfast. The kids had a blast and I can still feel how peaceful everything felt that day. We had planned to head to Oklahoma that day, but got delayed by the Great Blizzard of 2009 that hit Honey and Papa's house. We weren't sure what to do at first, but ultimately we ended up spending the whole day at home playing. The kids were outside almost all day. It was a perfect day!
An Oklahoma Christmas coming up next.....
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Where do we even start?
I haven't done a post since December 16th. Wow...how did that happen? We have a lot of catching up to do. But we'll just start with the present for now.
It's almost time for birthdays around here. Samuel's is February 13th and cousin Tanner's is February 6th. They are only a year apart and it's a hoot to watch them play together. This weekend Tanner and his sister, Addison, got to come play at our house for a couple of days. The kids had a blast and we decided to take the opportunity to have a little birthday cake. Because every day is a little sweeter with cake.
Below are some pictures of the boys before they blew out the candles. The story these pictures don't tell is Sam choice to lick off one of the letters on the cake. Oh well...
It's almost time for birthdays around here. Samuel's is February 13th and cousin Tanner's is February 6th. They are only a year apart and it's a hoot to watch them play together. This weekend Tanner and his sister, Addison, got to come play at our house for a couple of days. The kids had a blast and we decided to take the opportunity to have a little birthday cake. Because every day is a little sweeter with cake.
Below are some pictures of the boys before they blew out the candles. The story these pictures don't tell is Sam choice to lick off one of the letters on the cake. Oh well...
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