Life this past week was full of what I call ordinary miracles- things that can happen to us any day and seem very routine and ordinary, yet are wonderful.
Phoenix and I were painting some paper plates, just for fun. And then I decided to abandon the paint brushes and finger paint (Phoenix quickly followed my lead, of course). The yellow and blue paint covering our hands quickly turned into green paint, and we had so much fun making hand prints and painting plates. I realized this was a moment to be remembered.
Another time, I decided to be BRAVE and make homemade bread. I have tried before but didn't do so well. Phoenix loves any opportunity to get his hands dirty so he quickly climbed onto a chair to help me. Every aspect of the bread making thrilled him- the rolling pin, the sticky dough, the messy flour. He was copying everything I did and it was adorable. In the end, we were covered in flour (as was the kitchen) but ended up making a great batch of rolls and a loaf of yummy bread that we just finished off this morning (thanks Wendy for teaching me and for your bread recipe!). Yum. If you've never made your own bread, I highly recommend it. The store bought bread doesn't even compare. It's like two different food products, the taste is so different. Another moment to be remembered.
Joslynn has a lot to offer. If any of you don't know her yet, she is a very sweet girl who loves to have fun. She rarely cries and is ready to smile any time. We have so much fun laughing and giggling. She loves our dog, loves her Daddy because he will wrestle her, and loves her brother because he does things to make her laugh. Her new thing is making noises with her mouth. I will click my tongue or make some other sound, and she is really good at copying me. I am surprised by how much personality she has for only being 8 months old. Phoenix tends to be intense, loud, and boisterous. Joslynn is very feminine and observant, but she has this fun, bouncy side of her that we all enjoy so much. She is like her Dad in this way- she likes to have fun and be silly. And like any girl, she has become very chatty.
Isaac and I looked through our memory box yesterday and reminisced about "the old days". It was good to look back on old letters, cards, and pictures of us from when we first met and started dating. I concluded 2 things: One, I love Isaac so much and remembering the past reminded me of that! And two, we are getting old. We might only be in our twenties but pictures don't lie. Five years of marriage and two kids later, we don't look quite so fresh and thin! Ha ha. But I enjoy growing older with my best friend. It brings lots of moments to remember.
As a stay-at-home wife and mother, most days are filled with things like cleaning, cooking, doing laundry, paying bills, and the like. And then there are those occasional moments that catch you by surprise. The finger painting, bread making, and so many other things are what make my life worth all the diapers and crying and time-outs and "If you do that one more time, I will scream!!!" At the end of the non-animated version of Charlotte's Web, there is a song called "Ordinary Miracle". I love the song and find it very fitting as my theme song.
"Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Monday, June 13, 2011
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Smithville
Yesterday, Isaac had a rare day without any appointments to go to, so we decided to have a Dream Day. I recommend this to anyone! We drove around with our camera and took pictures of anything we hope to accomplish some day. We didn't get as many pictures as I'd like, since Joslynn and Phoenix were not big fans of riding in the car for hours, but we did get a great picture of a farm house on lots of land (like what we have only much more land and the house had a wrap-around porch). We also took photos of horses.
Our little road trip lasted all day and we encountered some interesting things along the way. On one of our stops, there was a head on collision accident (praise God, nobody was hurt). That was very exciting for Phoenix because there was a tow truck and he loves big trucks. He and Isaac stood by watching that scene for 15 minutes. We ended up in a town called Smithville (must say, I love the name). This is the town where one of my favorite movies was filmed, "Hope Floats." So we got to see all of the locations where the movie was filmed and that was neat. Check that off my Bucket List! Smithville is a very cute town, and it used to be a railroad town so the little Visitor's Center there was full of train pictures and toy trains that Phoenix just loved to play with. They also had some old, original trains out on the tracks that he got to climb around on. He loved it. Also, a new movie is coming out soon called "Tree of Life" starring Sean Penn and Brad Pitt (comes out June 3rd). It looks like a good movie and it, too, was filmed in Smithville. If it isn't rated R, I will be sure to check it out.
It was a lot of fun to visit a small, country town that they say is a town still stuck in the 1950's, meaning it is a safe community with great family values and a faith-based population. We really loved it there and had a lot of fun. I was raised a city girl, but I must say that the combination of being married to Isaac and living in Texas has brought me to love the small town country life.
Our little road trip lasted all day and we encountered some interesting things along the way. On one of our stops, there was a head on collision accident (praise God, nobody was hurt). That was very exciting for Phoenix because there was a tow truck and he loves big trucks. He and Isaac stood by watching that scene for 15 minutes. We ended up in a town called Smithville (must say, I love the name). This is the town where one of my favorite movies was filmed, "Hope Floats." So we got to see all of the locations where the movie was filmed and that was neat. Check that off my Bucket List! Smithville is a very cute town, and it used to be a railroad town so the little Visitor's Center there was full of train pictures and toy trains that Phoenix just loved to play with. They also had some old, original trains out on the tracks that he got to climb around on. He loved it. Also, a new movie is coming out soon called "Tree of Life" starring Sean Penn and Brad Pitt (comes out June 3rd). It looks like a good movie and it, too, was filmed in Smithville. If it isn't rated R, I will be sure to check it out.
It was a lot of fun to visit a small, country town that they say is a town still stuck in the 1950's, meaning it is a safe community with great family values and a faith-based population. We really loved it there and had a lot of fun. I was raised a city girl, but I must say that the combination of being married to Isaac and living in Texas has brought me to love the small town country life.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Welcome Spring
The weather here brings me mixed emotions. On the one hand, I really love the mild winters. On the other hand, the summers are terribly hot but mostly HUMID! Thank the Lord I have curly hair, so the humidity helps my hair. Summer is just around the corner already, so I am enjoying the more mild Spring weather. We have spent a lot of time doing outside things: playing in the water (which is just me spraying Phoenix and Mack with a hose), blowing bubbles, and the continual garden preparations (weeding, watering, tilling). And there is still the everyday trip to the mailbox that we all enjoy. Each day around 11 AM, I carry Joslynn on my hip (which is where she spends most of her waking hours) and walk down the gravel pathway to our mailbox, with Phoenix and Mack trotting alongside me.
I recently started persuading Phoenix to take naps again. He has been missing his daily nap for about a month and seemed cranky and irritable from about 3 PM until the end of the day (a very long day!). So now, after lunch at noon, we read stories (as active as Phoenix is, I am still awed that he likes to sit down with me and read) and then he lays on his favorite blue blankie that he has had since birth, and watches a Baby Einstein. After 15 minutes of this classical music show, he is out like a light, and is much happier for the rest of the day.
Joslynn turns 6 months old this week (wow!). She is rolling over, sticking her feet in her mouth (flexible!), and developing such a sweet personality. She is very gentle and has such a sweet spirit. She loves her Daddy and her brother (and me, of course), and she is laughing and talking more and more each day. Sometimes I hold her so close to me and thank God in my heart for giving her to me. She smells divine all the time and rarely throws a fit of any kind. She balances out her brother quite well. She is a breath of fresh air.
Isaac is doing great. He recently added selling insurance to his list of talents. He has been doing great and loves the change of pace. The alarm business was great for us for two years, but we felt it was time to move on to something different (which God confirmed for us over and over). I do credit handfuls of life lessons learned to our time spent selling alarms. We will see what God has in store for us in the insurance business!
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him..." Romans 15:13
I recently started persuading Phoenix to take naps again. He has been missing his daily nap for about a month and seemed cranky and irritable from about 3 PM until the end of the day (a very long day!). So now, after lunch at noon, we read stories (as active as Phoenix is, I am still awed that he likes to sit down with me and read) and then he lays on his favorite blue blankie that he has had since birth, and watches a Baby Einstein. After 15 minutes of this classical music show, he is out like a light, and is much happier for the rest of the day.
Joslynn turns 6 months old this week (wow!). She is rolling over, sticking her feet in her mouth (flexible!), and developing such a sweet personality. She is very gentle and has such a sweet spirit. She loves her Daddy and her brother (and me, of course), and she is laughing and talking more and more each day. Sometimes I hold her so close to me and thank God in my heart for giving her to me. She smells divine all the time and rarely throws a fit of any kind. She balances out her brother quite well. She is a breath of fresh air.
Isaac is doing great. He recently added selling insurance to his list of talents. He has been doing great and loves the change of pace. The alarm business was great for us for two years, but we felt it was time to move on to something different (which God confirmed for us over and over). I do credit handfuls of life lessons learned to our time spent selling alarms. We will see what God has in store for us in the insurance business!
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him..." Romans 15:13
Friday, March 4, 2011
Broken
Three things have been broken today.
1. Broken window...Our siding glass door. Phoenix threw a rock at it this morning and it slowly crackled until the entire door looked like stained glass.
2. Broken dog...Our beloved yellow lab, Charley, was hit by a car just an hour ago. He didn't make it and we feel his absence already.
3. Hearts...Breaking the glass door seems like no big deal now that our little Charley is gone. I know that death and loss are an unavoidable part of this life. We are all so fragile, as is the world that surrounds us. Still...I am sad that Charley will never grow up to be a big boy. I am sad for Mack, our black lab puppy, who misses Charley so much already that he is laying down and won't get up. I am sad for Phoenix. Charley was his best buddy and helped Phoenix sleep in his own room when he was too scared to be in there by himself.
Isaac and I miss Charley so much.
1. Broken window...Our siding glass door. Phoenix threw a rock at it this morning and it slowly crackled until the entire door looked like stained glass.
2. Broken dog...Our beloved yellow lab, Charley, was hit by a car just an hour ago. He didn't make it and we feel his absence already.
3. Hearts...Breaking the glass door seems like no big deal now that our little Charley is gone. I know that death and loss are an unavoidable part of this life. We are all so fragile, as is the world that surrounds us. Still...I am sad that Charley will never grow up to be a big boy. I am sad for Mack, our black lab puppy, who misses Charley so much already that he is laying down and won't get up. I am sad for Phoenix. Charley was his best buddy and helped Phoenix sleep in his own room when he was too scared to be in there by himself.
Isaac and I miss Charley so much.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Funny Things
Yesterday was a warm day. So we were all outside in our backyard, working on the soon-to-be garden. Isaac was digging post holes for the fence that we are putting up around said garden. For some reason, Phoenix was outside in his diaper with no shoes on. All of a sudden we heard him screaming...and then we saw both of his legs sticking straight in the air, kicking like mad. He had fallen head first into one of the post holes! It was so funny. When Isaac pulled him out, his hair and eyelashes and everything were dusted with dirt. It's not as funny typed up. Way funnier in person.
Then today, we were getting ready to eat dinner. I made Phoenix a quick peanut butter sandwich since we were eating fish, which he won't touch. At the table I was holding Joslynn and Isaac said "What IS THAT on your shirt?" My white shirt was smeared with peanut butter all across the front. I had no idea how it got there...until we heard Joslynn sucking away at her fingers. I was holding her when I made Phoenix's sandwich, and I guess she stuck her hand in the peanut butter jar when I wasn't looking and then smeared it on my shirt...she then proceeded to lick the rest off her little hand and she seemed to be enjoying it very much. Peanut butter...her first taste of solid food.
Then today, we were getting ready to eat dinner. I made Phoenix a quick peanut butter sandwich since we were eating fish, which he won't touch. At the table I was holding Joslynn and Isaac said "What IS THAT on your shirt?" My white shirt was smeared with peanut butter all across the front. I had no idea how it got there...until we heard Joslynn sucking away at her fingers. I was holding her when I made Phoenix's sandwich, and I guess she stuck her hand in the peanut butter jar when I wasn't looking and then smeared it on my shirt...she then proceeded to lick the rest off her little hand and she seemed to be enjoying it very much. Peanut butter...her first taste of solid food.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Hello 2011
We just got the internet at home a couple days ago, so now I can start blogging again!
When I woke up this morning, I was surprised to see that it snowed. I haven't seen snow since I lived in Salt Lake. I miss it! Isaac, Phoenix, and the dogs are out playing in it right now. Yes, the dogs. We recently got a black lab puppy we call Mack and a yellow lab puppy we call Charly. Except for the many accidents on the carpet and the constant chewing on everything, they have been a lot of fun. It is nice to finally have a yard with enough space for our dogs to run and play all day.
Life in Thorndale is going well. Isaac just returned home from a long business trip. First he went to Illinois for a week and then to El Paso for a week. It was a long two weeks! I did a lot of things I thought I'd never do, like go to the grocery store by myself with the kids (that was interesting). I am grateful he doesn't have to take these kinds of trips all the time anymore, like he did when he worked for VitaMix.
Phoenix is still a wild bundle of energy. Chasing the dogs around is his favorite thing to do, and he does it almost non-stop. He also likes to spend time in the "classroom" we set up for him in our spare bedroom. It's full of educational toys and books and fun activities. We have a class fish (a betta) and we spend a couple hours a day in there, learning and playing. He is still the pickest eater ever! Recently he has been saying the CUTEST prayers. Like when he got out of the bath a couple days ago, he was laying down while I dressed him and he said "Dear Jesus, thank you Mommy and Daddy...thank you bath...thank you boat. Amen!" and just now, he came inside and said "Dear Jesus, thank you snow. Thank you trucks. Amen!"
Joslynn goes in for her 4-month check-up on Monday. Wow, has she gotten big and chubby! Let me tell you, she is so sweet and so precious. There really is a big difference between baby boys and baby girls. She is very social and loves to just stare into your eyes, then gives you a huge smile. We say her eyes are as big as Texas because she is wide-eyed, always looking around. She sleeps through the night (whew!) and her favorite thing is for me to hold her and carry her with me everywhere. And I don't mind a bit.
When I woke up this morning, I was surprised to see that it snowed. I haven't seen snow since I lived in Salt Lake. I miss it! Isaac, Phoenix, and the dogs are out playing in it right now. Yes, the dogs. We recently got a black lab puppy we call Mack and a yellow lab puppy we call Charly. Except for the many accidents on the carpet and the constant chewing on everything, they have been a lot of fun. It is nice to finally have a yard with enough space for our dogs to run and play all day.
Life in Thorndale is going well. Isaac just returned home from a long business trip. First he went to Illinois for a week and then to El Paso for a week. It was a long two weeks! I did a lot of things I thought I'd never do, like go to the grocery store by myself with the kids (that was interesting). I am grateful he doesn't have to take these kinds of trips all the time anymore, like he did when he worked for VitaMix.
Phoenix is still a wild bundle of energy. Chasing the dogs around is his favorite thing to do, and he does it almost non-stop. He also likes to spend time in the "classroom" we set up for him in our spare bedroom. It's full of educational toys and books and fun activities. We have a class fish (a betta) and we spend a couple hours a day in there, learning and playing. He is still the pickest eater ever! Recently he has been saying the CUTEST prayers. Like when he got out of the bath a couple days ago, he was laying down while I dressed him and he said "Dear Jesus, thank you Mommy and Daddy...thank you bath...thank you boat. Amen!" and just now, he came inside and said "Dear Jesus, thank you snow. Thank you trucks. Amen!"
Joslynn goes in for her 4-month check-up on Monday. Wow, has she gotten big and chubby! Let me tell you, she is so sweet and so precious. There really is a big difference between baby boys and baby girls. She is very social and loves to just stare into your eyes, then gives you a huge smile. We say her eyes are as big as Texas because she is wide-eyed, always looking around. She sleeps through the night (whew!) and her favorite thing is for me to hold her and carry her with me everywhere. And I don't mind a bit.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Catching Up
Wow, it has been so long since I've blogged. I miss it! With so many major life changes going on I've just let it slip. I will try to highlight some of the more important things that have happened lately...
Joslynn Rayne Smith was born October 6 at 11:19 AM. She weighed 7 lbs 3.5 ounces, was 19.5 inches long, and I was in labor for 8 short hours. The real scare came when I almost had to have a c-section because her heart rate dropped extremely low. That was intense and scary. All sorts of doctors and nurses rushed around me within seconds, stuffing me with medicine and fluids to prepare me for the c-section. My husband was dressed in scrubs within seconds, ready to go with me to the operating room. We were both anxious and worried about our little baby...but thanks to the grace of God, her heart rate came back up and stayed healthy. Yay! I had a great delivery, recovery went very well, and she is now 7 weeks old and is a very happy baby.
Scare #2 happened when Joslynn was 2 weeks old. After nursing her in the wee hours of the night, I noticed she felt very warm. I took her temperature, which was 101.9 degrees. That seemed way too high so in to the emergency room she went. The next 48 hours were a blur of IV's, a trip in the ambulance, and watching Joslynn lay in the hospital crib. She had meningitis, and until they were sure it wasn't the life threatening kind, we had to wait and wait and wait...2 days later they told us she was healthy and good to go home. Whew...praise God again that she was okay.
We bought our first house in Thorndale, Texas. We live in a very small town with 1, 278 people (1,282 now with our litte family!). Our home sits on just over 2 acres and it is surrounded by trees and wildlife. We love it!
Phoenix has been doing great with baby Joslynn. He calls her "Jos-lit" and loves to softly rub her face or tickle her toes. Phoenix has grown really close to his Daddy since the baby came...maybe a little too close even! Every night now, Phoenix wakes up in the middle of the night, leaves his room, and crawls into our bed to sleep next to Daddy. I used to say I would NEVER let my children sleep in the bed with me. But I am realizing that Phoenix will only be 2 for so long, and I want to just enjoy the time I have with him. So for now, we don't mind snuggling him in our bed each night, even though he sweats a ton and takes over most of the bed.
We are in Mesquite for Thanksgiving. It has been a great holiday so far. Phoenix has really enjoyed running wild with his cousins, and I enjoy sharing Joslynn with everyone. We fly back home to Texas next Tuesday. The flight here wasn't so bad at all, except for the cranky old man that sat in front of Phoenix and kept accusing him of kicking his seat. I wanted to ask him "Do you have any kids? Don't you know what it is like to sit for over three hours on a small airplane with a rambunctious 2 year old and a newborn baby? Chill out please!" But of course I just smiled and tried to keep Phoenix as calm as possible. Yeah, right.
The Lord has been good to us.
I will praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything He does is right and all His ways are just. Daniel 4:37
Joslynn Rayne Smith was born October 6 at 11:19 AM. She weighed 7 lbs 3.5 ounces, was 19.5 inches long, and I was in labor for 8 short hours. The real scare came when I almost had to have a c-section because her heart rate dropped extremely low. That was intense and scary. All sorts of doctors and nurses rushed around me within seconds, stuffing me with medicine and fluids to prepare me for the c-section. My husband was dressed in scrubs within seconds, ready to go with me to the operating room. We were both anxious and worried about our little baby...but thanks to the grace of God, her heart rate came back up and stayed healthy. Yay! I had a great delivery, recovery went very well, and she is now 7 weeks old and is a very happy baby.
Scare #2 happened when Joslynn was 2 weeks old. After nursing her in the wee hours of the night, I noticed she felt very warm. I took her temperature, which was 101.9 degrees. That seemed way too high so in to the emergency room she went. The next 48 hours were a blur of IV's, a trip in the ambulance, and watching Joslynn lay in the hospital crib. She had meningitis, and until they were sure it wasn't the life threatening kind, we had to wait and wait and wait...2 days later they told us she was healthy and good to go home. Whew...praise God again that she was okay.
We bought our first house in Thorndale, Texas. We live in a very small town with 1, 278 people (1,282 now with our litte family!). Our home sits on just over 2 acres and it is surrounded by trees and wildlife. We love it!
Phoenix has been doing great with baby Joslynn. He calls her "Jos-lit" and loves to softly rub her face or tickle her toes. Phoenix has grown really close to his Daddy since the baby came...maybe a little too close even! Every night now, Phoenix wakes up in the middle of the night, leaves his room, and crawls into our bed to sleep next to Daddy. I used to say I would NEVER let my children sleep in the bed with me. But I am realizing that Phoenix will only be 2 for so long, and I want to just enjoy the time I have with him. So for now, we don't mind snuggling him in our bed each night, even though he sweats a ton and takes over most of the bed.
We are in Mesquite for Thanksgiving. It has been a great holiday so far. Phoenix has really enjoyed running wild with his cousins, and I enjoy sharing Joslynn with everyone. We fly back home to Texas next Tuesday. The flight here wasn't so bad at all, except for the cranky old man that sat in front of Phoenix and kept accusing him of kicking his seat. I wanted to ask him "Do you have any kids? Don't you know what it is like to sit for over three hours on a small airplane with a rambunctious 2 year old and a newborn baby? Chill out please!" But of course I just smiled and tried to keep Phoenix as calm as possible. Yeah, right.
The Lord has been good to us.
I will praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything He does is right and all His ways are just. Daniel 4:37
Sunday, September 19, 2010
AWESOME
I have been worrying. I hate to say that, but I have had feelings of anxiety for a couple of days. This is hard for me to admit because as a believer in Christ, I have His Word hidden in my heart to help me through times like these. Scriptures about trusting in God and giving Him all my burdens come to mind, but I just couldn't seem to lay it all down at His feet, and the feeling of peace as promised in Philippians 4:7 was not there in my heart and mind.
So, very late last night, Isaac and I prayed together about what is going on in our life, seeking the Lord's wisdom for our life. I felt the Spirit bring to mind the parable Jesus says in the gospel of Luke, when He says "Consider the lilies of the field..." the parable that reminds us that if God clothes the flowers with such beauty and splendor, how much more will he take care of His children? I also felt a strong urge to go to church in the morning, sensing that God had something planned for me there. And He did.
The worship was sweet, bringing tears to my eyes. I just love singing praises to my Creator. And instead of a sermon, we watched something called "Indescribable", which was so neat. We got to see several pictures from outer space of things like galaxies, stars, etc. It helped me realize how small I am. Just one small person in a huge world, on one small planet in a HUGE universe. There is more out there than just our nine planets and billions os stars. Our telescopes cannot even extend far enough into space to get a picture of what is really out there. Wow...and to think that as small as I am, God loves me. God loves ME! The last image we saw in the video was of Jesus on the cross. Wow, what a moment of silence. Jesus, the Creator of this universe, so vast and powerful, came to this little speck of a planet because HE LOVES US. Death on a cross, so that we could live with Him forever, so that we could have a personal and intimate relationship with our God.
So I realized that the worries of my life are nothing compared to the awesomeness of God. If my Creator could create the universe, so big that astronomers haven't even begun to touch the surface of it, then surely He will take care of me. God looks through the galaxies and vastness of the universe, and sees right into my heart. He knows the name of every star, sees every leaf that falls, and knows every thought in the mind of every person who has ever lived. The same God that created planet earth also created the baby inside of me. Try to wrap your mind around that...I sure can't! He has got it under control! And life is about so much more than me, anyway. Thanks for the powerful reminder, God! And now I have peace.
"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
"Wait for the Lord. Be strong and take heart, and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14
So, very late last night, Isaac and I prayed together about what is going on in our life, seeking the Lord's wisdom for our life. I felt the Spirit bring to mind the parable Jesus says in the gospel of Luke, when He says "Consider the lilies of the field..." the parable that reminds us that if God clothes the flowers with such beauty and splendor, how much more will he take care of His children? I also felt a strong urge to go to church in the morning, sensing that God had something planned for me there. And He did.
The worship was sweet, bringing tears to my eyes. I just love singing praises to my Creator. And instead of a sermon, we watched something called "Indescribable", which was so neat. We got to see several pictures from outer space of things like galaxies, stars, etc. It helped me realize how small I am. Just one small person in a huge world, on one small planet in a HUGE universe. There is more out there than just our nine planets and billions os stars. Our telescopes cannot even extend far enough into space to get a picture of what is really out there. Wow...and to think that as small as I am, God loves me. God loves ME! The last image we saw in the video was of Jesus on the cross. Wow, what a moment of silence. Jesus, the Creator of this universe, so vast and powerful, came to this little speck of a planet because HE LOVES US. Death on a cross, so that we could live with Him forever, so that we could have a personal and intimate relationship with our God.
So I realized that the worries of my life are nothing compared to the awesomeness of God. If my Creator could create the universe, so big that astronomers haven't even begun to touch the surface of it, then surely He will take care of me. God looks through the galaxies and vastness of the universe, and sees right into my heart. He knows the name of every star, sees every leaf that falls, and knows every thought in the mind of every person who has ever lived. The same God that created planet earth also created the baby inside of me. Try to wrap your mind around that...I sure can't! He has got it under control! And life is about so much more than me, anyway. Thanks for the powerful reminder, God! And now I have peace.
"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10
"Wait for the Lord. Be strong and take heart, and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Birthdays
Phoenix celebrated his 2nd birthday on August 24th. We had a small celebration, since we aren't near family or friends right now, so it was just me, Isaac, Phoenix. He was more excited about the candles on his cake than actually eating it. In fact, after the candles were all blown out, he asked us to light them again. And a few minutes later, he proceeded to put a candle in his mouth, eat the wax, and spit out the wick. Yucky. He did all this while I was cutting the cake, so praise God he didn't choke on it or something. I guess he thought the candles were edible...after all, they were covered in yummy tasting frosting.
Isaac turned 25 a couple weeks later, on September 4. He had to work on his birthday, but that night we had a little barbecue complete with confetti cupcakes, one of his favorites. He bought some new undershirts for work as his present. Holidays can be a little lonely out here in California, but at the same time they are wonderful because we are starting traditions that include just our small family of three (soon to be four).
Our anniversary was on September 8th. Four years of wedded bliss! We celebrated a week early by spending the night in Las Vegas at our favorite hotel, the Red Rock. Phoenix spent some time with Gamma and Papa, and stayed the night with his cousins, Weston, Andrew, and Madison. It was so nice to enjoy some time with my husband without Phoenix screaming or running around the restaurant. What a nice surprise and blessing that trip was!
I am 35 weeks along, so there is only about a month left until this little baby is born. I feel great and have been blessed tremendously with a healthy pregnancy. This summer has been such a learning experience. We have learned many lessons, mainly to trust in the Lord even more than we have in the past. In a world of suffering, economic uncertainty, and just the trials of day to day life, the Lord is our Rock and He will never change. Praise Him for His faithfulness! No matter what happens here on earth, if we trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior, then we are given an eternal inheritance to look forward to. This life is just a mist, a vapor. But life for believers in Jesus will go on forever.
"Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." Philippians 3:20
Isaac turned 25 a couple weeks later, on September 4. He had to work on his birthday, but that night we had a little barbecue complete with confetti cupcakes, one of his favorites. He bought some new undershirts for work as his present. Holidays can be a little lonely out here in California, but at the same time they are wonderful because we are starting traditions that include just our small family of three (soon to be four).
Our anniversary was on September 8th. Four years of wedded bliss! We celebrated a week early by spending the night in Las Vegas at our favorite hotel, the Red Rock. Phoenix spent some time with Gamma and Papa, and stayed the night with his cousins, Weston, Andrew, and Madison. It was so nice to enjoy some time with my husband without Phoenix screaming or running around the restaurant. What a nice surprise and blessing that trip was!
I am 35 weeks along, so there is only about a month left until this little baby is born. I feel great and have been blessed tremendously with a healthy pregnancy. This summer has been such a learning experience. We have learned many lessons, mainly to trust in the Lord even more than we have in the past. In a world of suffering, economic uncertainty, and just the trials of day to day life, the Lord is our Rock and He will never change. Praise Him for His faithfulness! No matter what happens here on earth, if we trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior, then we are given an eternal inheritance to look forward to. This life is just a mist, a vapor. But life for believers in Jesus will go on forever.
"Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." Philippians 3:20
Monday, August 16, 2010
Timing and Trains
Timing…the time has come for us to move again, and this time I think it’s for sure. This weekend we’ll be moving to Corona, CA. This will be our final move of the summer, where we will stay until the baby is born in October. After that we plan to pass through Mesquite, load a U-Haul with the few things we have in storage, and then head to Texas to start another adventure.
Time is interesting to me. For example, the timing of this pregnancy couldn’t have been better. Isaac and I got pregnant with Phoenix the same month we started trying, but with this baby, it took four months. Each month I kept wondering why I wasn’t pregnant yet, since it happened instantly with Phoenix. Actually, four months is not very long at all to wait to get pregnant, but now I see why the Lord gave us this pregnancy just when He did, and not a month sooner or later. For one thing, I was extremely sick with this pregnancy from week 7-week 20. It just happens to be that during my sickest weeks, Isaac worked a job that allowed him to be at home most of the day, every day, so he was able to take care of Phoenix for me and help me through the all-day sickness (it was definitely not “morning sickness”…it seemed to get worse as the day went on. Ugh!). Then, during my 2nd trimester, we moved out here to California for Isaac’s job and our apartment lease with the company will be up November 1st. This is great for us because the baby is due at the end of October, just in time for us to deliver him or her. If this pregnancy had happened any sooner or later, then I would not have had Isaac’s full-time help with my sickness, or we would have had to leave California when I was close to delivering and scramble to find a doctor in Texas at the last minute. It turns out that God’s timing is exquisite, the best timing of all.
Phoenix absolutely LOVES to play with the train table at Barnes and Noble. We go there every week so he can play with the “choo choos.” Last weekend Isaac found a little train set for $19 at a kid’s second-hand store, so we bought it as Phoenix’s early birthday gift. I brought it home and tried for 20 minutes to put it together. I just couldn’t seem to get it to make a full circle, so Phoenix would have to move the train back to the beginning every time it got to the end of the track. I was disappointed that it wasn’t a complete train track. Then Isaac got home from work that night, took a quick look at the train, made a few adjustments, and just like that…the train tracks made a complete circle. What? How did I miss that? We both laughed at how differently God has made men and women. I spent all afternoon pondering how to get the train tracks to come together right, and it only took Isaac 10 seconds to figure it out. I revel in the differences between men and women. Together, we make such a great team. I only wish society would accept that God made us different, instead of trying to make us more like each other.
Time is interesting to me. For example, the timing of this pregnancy couldn’t have been better. Isaac and I got pregnant with Phoenix the same month we started trying, but with this baby, it took four months. Each month I kept wondering why I wasn’t pregnant yet, since it happened instantly with Phoenix. Actually, four months is not very long at all to wait to get pregnant, but now I see why the Lord gave us this pregnancy just when He did, and not a month sooner or later. For one thing, I was extremely sick with this pregnancy from week 7-week 20. It just happens to be that during my sickest weeks, Isaac worked a job that allowed him to be at home most of the day, every day, so he was able to take care of Phoenix for me and help me through the all-day sickness (it was definitely not “morning sickness”…it seemed to get worse as the day went on. Ugh!). Then, during my 2nd trimester, we moved out here to California for Isaac’s job and our apartment lease with the company will be up November 1st. This is great for us because the baby is due at the end of October, just in time for us to deliver him or her. If this pregnancy had happened any sooner or later, then I would not have had Isaac’s full-time help with my sickness, or we would have had to leave California when I was close to delivering and scramble to find a doctor in Texas at the last minute. It turns out that God’s timing is exquisite, the best timing of all.
Phoenix absolutely LOVES to play with the train table at Barnes and Noble. We go there every week so he can play with the “choo choos.” Last weekend Isaac found a little train set for $19 at a kid’s second-hand store, so we bought it as Phoenix’s early birthday gift. I brought it home and tried for 20 minutes to put it together. I just couldn’t seem to get it to make a full circle, so Phoenix would have to move the train back to the beginning every time it got to the end of the track. I was disappointed that it wasn’t a complete train track. Then Isaac got home from work that night, took a quick look at the train, made a few adjustments, and just like that…the train tracks made a complete circle. What? How did I miss that? We both laughed at how differently God has made men and women. I spent all afternoon pondering how to get the train tracks to come together right, and it only took Isaac 10 seconds to figure it out. I revel in the differences between men and women. Together, we make such a great team. I only wish society would accept that God made us different, instead of trying to make us more like each other.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Just Kidding...
We are not moving yet! I don't know why I post these things, because when your husband is an alarm salesman, nothing is ever for sure! We will probably be moving within a month or so, but who knows? I don't get anxiety anymore about our gypsy lifestyle. It has driven home the point for us that this world is not our home, and it keeps us looking up to where our home truly is.
Last weekend I decided to be brave and take Phoenix to the beach alone, without Isaac, since he works Saturdays. I was prepared for lots of screaming and frustrating moments with Phoenix (he really is a wild child), but it turned out to be a very relaxing and fun afternoon, much to my surprise and delight! We spent most of our time just sitting in the sand, while Phoenix played with his new beach toys that I managed to hunt down at Target (the absolute last set of beach toys left anywhere in Southern California, I swear!), and I sat and soaked in some sun. I just love it when Phoenix surprises me with great behavior. Don't get me wrong, he is an awesome kid, but sometimes he can be more than a little feisty and independent. Definitely gets that from his Daddy. :) Also, we saw a dolphin out in the ocean! It was so awesome. I have never seen a dolphin out in the water unless it was at Sea World, so that was exciting. Dolphins are my favorite animals ever.
We went to a great church on Sunday, Calvary Chapel El Cajon. Phoenix had a lot of fun in his class, and we learned from the book of Revelation. Exciting things! Isaac is still working as hard as ever, and my belly is still getting as big as ever, and the weather here is just as wonderful as ever. I am going into my 30th week (the Big 3-0!), which means this pregnancy is winding down to a close. I can't wait to hold my little newborn in my arms, and also I can't wait to sleep on my tummy or back again, I'll take either one. If I get any sleep at all. Who needs sleep when you've got a wonderful husband, a wacky toddler, and a little newborn baby to share your life with? :)
Last weekend I decided to be brave and take Phoenix to the beach alone, without Isaac, since he works Saturdays. I was prepared for lots of screaming and frustrating moments with Phoenix (he really is a wild child), but it turned out to be a very relaxing and fun afternoon, much to my surprise and delight! We spent most of our time just sitting in the sand, while Phoenix played with his new beach toys that I managed to hunt down at Target (the absolute last set of beach toys left anywhere in Southern California, I swear!), and I sat and soaked in some sun. I just love it when Phoenix surprises me with great behavior. Don't get me wrong, he is an awesome kid, but sometimes he can be more than a little feisty and independent. Definitely gets that from his Daddy. :) Also, we saw a dolphin out in the ocean! It was so awesome. I have never seen a dolphin out in the water unless it was at Sea World, so that was exciting. Dolphins are my favorite animals ever.
We went to a great church on Sunday, Calvary Chapel El Cajon. Phoenix had a lot of fun in his class, and we learned from the book of Revelation. Exciting things! Isaac is still working as hard as ever, and my belly is still getting as big as ever, and the weather here is just as wonderful as ever. I am going into my 30th week (the Big 3-0!), which means this pregnancy is winding down to a close. I can't wait to hold my little newborn in my arms, and also I can't wait to sleep on my tummy or back again, I'll take either one. If I get any sleep at all. Who needs sleep when you've got a wonderful husband, a wacky toddler, and a little newborn baby to share your life with? :)
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Bye Bye San Diego
We have lived in San Diego for about 4 weeks, and we are moving again! We'll be staying in California and moving further north. We leave on Sunday, so I'm trying to really enjoy our last few days here. This place is awesome! What I have loved the most is the weather. In Lompoc it was chilly and very windy everyday, but here it is absolutely gorgeous- warm, usually in the 70's, and no harsh winds. We have spent many nights at the beach, just walking along the coast and watching Phoenix try to ride his skateboard or scooter. We have also done Sea World a few times.
Isaac gave me an early Birthday present (very early- I turn 24 in October).He let me decorate our porch here, and I had a lot of fun doing it. I didn't spend much money, just kept it simple and inexpensive. It is bright and colorful and inviting, and I sit out there a lot just thinking or praying or reading. There is a big tree right in front of our porch, and last weekend we noticed these very exotic looking birds flying around and eating the tree's berries. These birds are so unusual looking, we took a bunch of pictures of them, and when we looked them up, we discovered they are called the Red Crowned Parrot and are endangered! They are very rare and only exist here in California. Wow! We felt so blessed to be able to watch them fly around us. They are a beautiful bright green with red near the eyes and a bright yellow beak. I am amazed at how much variety God created, what an awesome God He is.
Pregnancy update: I am going into my 29th week, almost 7 months pregnant. I feel great, the baby is moving around a ton, and I am grateful to have a healthy pregnancy. I still can't believe there is a living person inside of me, with a heart and a spirit and everything! What a miracle it is.
Phoenix is learning a lot and growing up real fast! He now sleeps in a "big boy bed", which is a mattress on the floor next to his Pac and Play. He was climbing out of his little crib and flopping onto the mattress, but now we just lay him right on the mattress and he loves it. No more baby bed!
A few days ago when Isaac and I were praying, I got a little emotional and thanked God for all that He has blessed us with. We do not deserve His abundant provision- we are sinful people, redeemed by our Savior, and there is nothing good in us except the good that God has put there. I prayed, My Lord! I have everything I need. :)
"He is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." Ephesians 3:20
Isaac gave me an early Birthday present (very early- I turn 24 in October).He let me decorate our porch here, and I had a lot of fun doing it. I didn't spend much money, just kept it simple and inexpensive. It is bright and colorful and inviting, and I sit out there a lot just thinking or praying or reading. There is a big tree right in front of our porch, and last weekend we noticed these very exotic looking birds flying around and eating the tree's berries. These birds are so unusual looking, we took a bunch of pictures of them, and when we looked them up, we discovered they are called the Red Crowned Parrot and are endangered! They are very rare and only exist here in California. Wow! We felt so blessed to be able to watch them fly around us. They are a beautiful bright green with red near the eyes and a bright yellow beak. I am amazed at how much variety God created, what an awesome God He is.
Pregnancy update: I am going into my 29th week, almost 7 months pregnant. I feel great, the baby is moving around a ton, and I am grateful to have a healthy pregnancy. I still can't believe there is a living person inside of me, with a heart and a spirit and everything! What a miracle it is.
Phoenix is learning a lot and growing up real fast! He now sleeps in a "big boy bed", which is a mattress on the floor next to his Pac and Play. He was climbing out of his little crib and flopping onto the mattress, but now we just lay him right on the mattress and he loves it. No more baby bed!
A few days ago when Isaac and I were praying, I got a little emotional and thanked God for all that He has blessed us with. We do not deserve His abundant provision- we are sinful people, redeemed by our Savior, and there is nothing good in us except the good that God has put there. I prayed, My Lord! I have everything I need. :)
"He is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." Ephesians 3:20
Friday, June 25, 2010
Having Fun in Lompoc
Yesterday Phoenix and I ran some errands. We went to Wal Mart to buy a few things, and I noticed some sandals on sale for $7. This seemed great to me, since I am not willing to spend more than $10 on shoes for him. They were these cute brown sandals, but when I put them on his feet he tried to shake them off and said "Yucky!". My 22-month-old son has a taste in shoes? What? I laughed at him, especially after I replaced his worn out, camo-style tennis shoes, and he seemed more than content with those.
Then we went to the Annual Lompoc Flower Festival, which is just a fancy name for the city's summer carnival. A lot like Mesquite Days. The karaoke was bad (would have been much worse if I joined in), and Phoenix enjoyed playing on the playground. Even with carnival rides and sticky food all around him, he chose the playground. His new thing is lying down on his belly in the sand and squirming around like a snake. I'm not sure if he just likes the feeling of the sand on his skin or what, but every time we come home from these trips, his shoes are loaded with sand...and so is his diaper.
On the way home I saw a license plate that said "Having Fun in Lompoc." I smiled and thought to myself how true that is of our life right now. Yes, Isaac is working super hard, and sure, we have days that are difficult. But mostly we are enjoying this season God has given us, as a small family of three, waiting for #4 to come into the world, and just having fun in Lompoc.
"...Be content with the things you have..." Hebrews 13:5
Then we went to the Annual Lompoc Flower Festival, which is just a fancy name for the city's summer carnival. A lot like Mesquite Days. The karaoke was bad (would have been much worse if I joined in), and Phoenix enjoyed playing on the playground. Even with carnival rides and sticky food all around him, he chose the playground. His new thing is lying down on his belly in the sand and squirming around like a snake. I'm not sure if he just likes the feeling of the sand on his skin or what, but every time we come home from these trips, his shoes are loaded with sand...and so is his diaper.
On the way home I saw a license plate that said "Having Fun in Lompoc." I smiled and thought to myself how true that is of our life right now. Yes, Isaac is working super hard, and sure, we have days that are difficult. But mostly we are enjoying this season God has given us, as a small family of three, waiting for #4 to come into the world, and just having fun in Lompoc.
"...Be content with the things you have..." Hebrews 13:5
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Life in Lompoc
Things in Lompoc have been great. I have adjusted to the almost-always-windy weather. Phoenix and I enjoy the occasional warm, wind-free morning, but we usually just wear our jackets. The days go by so much faster when we spend time outside on stroller walks or sometimes I let Phoenix lead the way and chase him around the apartment complex. These are the most charming apartments we’ve stayed at. I really like it here. At the beginning of the day, it feels like a hurdle to cross over- what will we do today? How can I keep Phoenix entertained? I feel a constant pressure…Am I teaching him enough, do I spend my days in a way that pleases God, am I raising him the right way, what could I do differently, what more could I do? Then I remember “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
Phoenix is doing some pretty cute things lately. He has two sippy cups with straw lids (he never did like those kind you have to tip up to get the drink to come out). Yesterday he discovered that he can play with them as if they are umbrellas, since they look like little umbrellas (that is one of the words he is learning from reading his books with me). So he carries them around our small, but cosy, apartment and says “mmm-brell-ahhh”. He played with them in the bath last night, and while the water ran he put them under the faucet, just like real umbrellas. It’s so cute, and I’m proud of him for being so smart and creative.
Also, I noticed after our stroller walk this morning that Phoenix was not following me up the stairs like usual. We have a stone path in the grass by our stairs and he was walking on it over and over. He has discovered these little paths all around the apartment complex and loves to walk on them. So on our second walk of the day today, I led him down a few stone paths, and whenever he sees one, he just HAS to walk on it. When he does little things like this, it makes me worship God in my heart and fall in love with Him and my son even more.
Yesterday, Isaac sold an alarm to a man who is a strawberry picker. The guy took him out to the strawberry fields and let him help pick some. That was so neat, he came home with 10 pounds of strawberries! They’re all over the fridge and freezer. It’s a good thing Phoenix loves strawberries, he could eat a whole package of them in one day. On Sunday we are going up to Santa Maria to pick more berries in that man’s field (how generous of him to share), and then church at Calvary Chapel Santa Maria. I’m excited, I love going to new Calvaries and I’ve wanted to go to this one for weeks. Then Isaac said we could go out to eat after, and I said “Olive Garden?” Here in Lompoc we have no chain restaurants, just little mom and pops and lots of authentic Mexican food. I love pasta and soup and salad, so Olive Garden sounds wonderful to me. Isaac is such a trooper, he goes there with me even though he would rather eat a steak or some ribs somewhere. He knows how much I love food!
The pregnancy has been good. I still get nauseous from time to time, mostly towards the end of the day. My legs are starting to cramp and my lower back hurts, but I am happy to feel the baby moving inside. We call it “Baby J,” since we’ve decided to wait to find out, and our names are Joslyn for a girl or Jaxon for a boy. I really feel it is a girl, but it will be wonderful to push our baby out and hear “It’s a…”. I love surprises. I never thought I was the type of person that could wait 40 weeks to find out if my child is a boy or a girl, but something put the idea in my head and heart after we moved here, and now I am excited to wait. It is really special that God is the only One who knows if it’s a him or a her. As I type this, Baby J is kicking around in there. :) I’ll be in my 20th week tomorrow, so almost halfway.
I’m learning a lot from my Bible studies. Ever since we decided not to have a TV in our home, we’ve started reading the Bible and praying together every night. I love it! I’ve wanted to do this with Isaac for over 3 years, but we never seemed to make a habit of it. I never stopped praying that Isaac would lead me in this area and now I see God working in him in awesome ways. It’s great because I’ve prayed that God would be the center of everything in our lives, and we hear His voice more and more as we let less and less of the world into our lives. God is good. :)
Phoenix is doing some pretty cute things lately. He has two sippy cups with straw lids (he never did like those kind you have to tip up to get the drink to come out). Yesterday he discovered that he can play with them as if they are umbrellas, since they look like little umbrellas (that is one of the words he is learning from reading his books with me). So he carries them around our small, but cosy, apartment and says “mmm-brell-ahhh”. He played with them in the bath last night, and while the water ran he put them under the faucet, just like real umbrellas. It’s so cute, and I’m proud of him for being so smart and creative.
Also, I noticed after our stroller walk this morning that Phoenix was not following me up the stairs like usual. We have a stone path in the grass by our stairs and he was walking on it over and over. He has discovered these little paths all around the apartment complex and loves to walk on them. So on our second walk of the day today, I led him down a few stone paths, and whenever he sees one, he just HAS to walk on it. When he does little things like this, it makes me worship God in my heart and fall in love with Him and my son even more.
Yesterday, Isaac sold an alarm to a man who is a strawberry picker. The guy took him out to the strawberry fields and let him help pick some. That was so neat, he came home with 10 pounds of strawberries! They’re all over the fridge and freezer. It’s a good thing Phoenix loves strawberries, he could eat a whole package of them in one day. On Sunday we are going up to Santa Maria to pick more berries in that man’s field (how generous of him to share), and then church at Calvary Chapel Santa Maria. I’m excited, I love going to new Calvaries and I’ve wanted to go to this one for weeks. Then Isaac said we could go out to eat after, and I said “Olive Garden?” Here in Lompoc we have no chain restaurants, just little mom and pops and lots of authentic Mexican food. I love pasta and soup and salad, so Olive Garden sounds wonderful to me. Isaac is such a trooper, he goes there with me even though he would rather eat a steak or some ribs somewhere. He knows how much I love food!
The pregnancy has been good. I still get nauseous from time to time, mostly towards the end of the day. My legs are starting to cramp and my lower back hurts, but I am happy to feel the baby moving inside. We call it “Baby J,” since we’ve decided to wait to find out, and our names are Joslyn for a girl or Jaxon for a boy. I really feel it is a girl, but it will be wonderful to push our baby out and hear “It’s a…”. I love surprises. I never thought I was the type of person that could wait 40 weeks to find out if my child is a boy or a girl, but something put the idea in my head and heart after we moved here, and now I am excited to wait. It is really special that God is the only One who knows if it’s a him or a her. As I type this, Baby J is kicking around in there. :) I’ll be in my 20th week tomorrow, so almost halfway.
I’m learning a lot from my Bible studies. Ever since we decided not to have a TV in our home, we’ve started reading the Bible and praying together every night. I love it! I’ve wanted to do this with Isaac for over 3 years, but we never seemed to make a habit of it. I never stopped praying that Isaac would lead me in this area and now I see God working in him in awesome ways. It’s great because I’ve prayed that God would be the center of everything in our lives, and we hear His voice more and more as we let less and less of the world into our lives. God is good. :)
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Laughing and Moving
Last night, Isaac and I were laying on our mattress in the living room and looking up stuff on the Internet (since we had sold our TV, couch, and entertainment center earlier that day for $17 to a guy who had just moved here from Colorado and needed furniture). We found this HILARIOUS picture of a girl sitting on a play horse, and her face is so silly that I laughed until I cried, literally, tears. I saw the picture again today and still laughed my buns off. So I had it pulled up on Wendy's computer (our power is turned off) and Phoenix came over, saw it, and said "Ewwww....". Ah. I laughed again, squeezed his face, kissed him, and thanked God for that moment.
We move to California tomorrow. It's been a crazy few days, packing and cleaning and saying good-bye to people. After being sick for so many weeks with this pregnancy, I really felt like a prisoner in my own home. Things had gotten so disorganized, unclean, and out of control. But this move is a lifesaver. I got to go through every corner, closet, and drawer and throw away things we don't need. Moving can be sad but is always refreshing. We looked up our apartments in California online, and they look very cute and nice. I am excited to have another summer with just the bare essentials- no TV, none of our own furniture, just the summer weather, a new town to explore, and lots of things to learn. The 8-hour drive is not great, but after that it will be exciting.
A few weeks ago we went to the fair here in Nevada. It was so relaxing to have an afternoon spent outdoors, with my little family of three (four if you count the baby in my belly), with nothing to do except walk at a leisurely pace, see the pigs and goats and rabbits and chickens, eat homemade ice cream and delicious root beer, and watch our son marvel at the tractors and eat cotton candy for the first time. It was precious and priceless, like a miracle day.
Then we spent 5 days in California, so Isaac could work for a few days and we could check out where we'll be living for the summer. Santa Maria is where we will be (not Anaheim, Disneyland will have to wait), and it is a very nice town. We went to a great Farmer's Market, which is where I plan to do a lot of my summer grocery shopping. The fruits and vegetables you can get at these markets are amazing and beautiful, and so fresh tasting. There is just something special about getting your produce straight from the farmer instead of from the aisles at Wal Mart. Thus far, Phoenix has handled the travelling very well. It's an 8 hour drive without traffic, and every time we are done with the drive, I let out a big sigh and wonder how we made it through with our almost-2 year-old in the backseat. Then I wonder how we made it through our 24-hour drive last summer. Aye yay yay!
I really feel the Lord working in my life right now, arranging my future for me and calling me to grow in my walk with Him. I love the Lord so much, not just for what He gives me and the blessings in my life, but for who He is (my Father, Savior, Comforter, Provider, Best Friend) and what He has done for me already on the cross. God is good, and life without Him is no life at all.
We move to California tomorrow. It's been a crazy few days, packing and cleaning and saying good-bye to people. After being sick for so many weeks with this pregnancy, I really felt like a prisoner in my own home. Things had gotten so disorganized, unclean, and out of control. But this move is a lifesaver. I got to go through every corner, closet, and drawer and throw away things we don't need. Moving can be sad but is always refreshing. We looked up our apartments in California online, and they look very cute and nice. I am excited to have another summer with just the bare essentials- no TV, none of our own furniture, just the summer weather, a new town to explore, and lots of things to learn. The 8-hour drive is not great, but after that it will be exciting.
A few weeks ago we went to the fair here in Nevada. It was so relaxing to have an afternoon spent outdoors, with my little family of three (four if you count the baby in my belly), with nothing to do except walk at a leisurely pace, see the pigs and goats and rabbits and chickens, eat homemade ice cream and delicious root beer, and watch our son marvel at the tractors and eat cotton candy for the first time. It was precious and priceless, like a miracle day.
Then we spent 5 days in California, so Isaac could work for a few days and we could check out where we'll be living for the summer. Santa Maria is where we will be (not Anaheim, Disneyland will have to wait), and it is a very nice town. We went to a great Farmer's Market, which is where I plan to do a lot of my summer grocery shopping. The fruits and vegetables you can get at these markets are amazing and beautiful, and so fresh tasting. There is just something special about getting your produce straight from the farmer instead of from the aisles at Wal Mart. Thus far, Phoenix has handled the travelling very well. It's an 8 hour drive without traffic, and every time we are done with the drive, I let out a big sigh and wonder how we made it through with our almost-2 year-old in the backseat. Then I wonder how we made it through our 24-hour drive last summer. Aye yay yay!
I really feel the Lord working in my life right now, arranging my future for me and calling me to grow in my walk with Him. I love the Lord so much, not just for what He gives me and the blessings in my life, but for who He is (my Father, Savior, Comforter, Provider, Best Friend) and what He has done for me already on the cross. God is good, and life without Him is no life at all.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Good-Byes
This month, I will have to say a lot of good-byes. We are moving again for Isaac's job, this time to California. Somehwere in the Anaheim area, so on the plus side, we will have great weather, new sights to explore, the beach, and Disneyland. But these things I will truly miss:
1. Our church home. Calvary Chapel Mesquite is a very small, but very intimate, fellowship. I will miss the people, my pastor, my friends, serving in the nursery, and the awesome worship services. This church is amazing and really gave me so much.
2. Our dogs. We had to give Max and Jack away, because we are moving into a furnished apartment (not very doggie friendly), and after the summer is over we aren't sure where we'll be going. We just can't keep leaving our dogs with other people to watch while we figure out our life. We had those two boys for several years. They became a huge part of our life. Max was there for me during my morning sickness in both pregnancies, always by my side when I was throwing up or just couldn't get out of bed. And Jack was always good for a laugh. I will miss them both so much.
3. Small town living. I love being able to walk to the store if I want, that there is no traffic ever, that everyone knows everyone and the crime rate is practically non-existent. I grew up in a big city and for the first time ever, I got to spend some time in a small town. I have really enjoyed it.
4. Family. Isaac's parents live across the street, and my grandma and aunt live 5 minutes away. These people have really helped me through these past 6 months, with Isaac being gone so much for work, or with me being so sick with this pregnancy. I will really miss spending time with them.
I am very much looking forward to the journey ahead. There is something very refreshing and liberating about throwing all your stuff into storage and moving very far away to someplace new and unfamiliar. It is thrilling to take a bare-bones apartment and turn it into your home for the summer. It is exciting to get to know new people, shop at different grocery stores, and fall out of your regular routine.
Last summer, God did amazing things with my life. I know that this summer, He will do the same. Good-byes are tough, but there is always something to say hello to on the other side. "He gives, and He takes away."
1. Our church home. Calvary Chapel Mesquite is a very small, but very intimate, fellowship. I will miss the people, my pastor, my friends, serving in the nursery, and the awesome worship services. This church is amazing and really gave me so much.
2. Our dogs. We had to give Max and Jack away, because we are moving into a furnished apartment (not very doggie friendly), and after the summer is over we aren't sure where we'll be going. We just can't keep leaving our dogs with other people to watch while we figure out our life. We had those two boys for several years. They became a huge part of our life. Max was there for me during my morning sickness in both pregnancies, always by my side when I was throwing up or just couldn't get out of bed. And Jack was always good for a laugh. I will miss them both so much.
3. Small town living. I love being able to walk to the store if I want, that there is no traffic ever, that everyone knows everyone and the crime rate is practically non-existent. I grew up in a big city and for the first time ever, I got to spend some time in a small town. I have really enjoyed it.
4. Family. Isaac's parents live across the street, and my grandma and aunt live 5 minutes away. These people have really helped me through these past 6 months, with Isaac being gone so much for work, or with me being so sick with this pregnancy. I will really miss spending time with them.
I am very much looking forward to the journey ahead. There is something very refreshing and liberating about throwing all your stuff into storage and moving very far away to someplace new and unfamiliar. It is thrilling to take a bare-bones apartment and turn it into your home for the summer. It is exciting to get to know new people, shop at different grocery stores, and fall out of your regular routine.
Last summer, God did amazing things with my life. I know that this summer, He will do the same. Good-byes are tough, but there is always something to say hello to on the other side. "He gives, and He takes away."
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Pregnant
Since the last time I wrote in this blog, a few things have changed. Isaac is no longer working for VitaMix, which has been like a breath of fresh air each day. He is home everyday, and he and Phoenix are developing a deeper Daddy/Son bond. And the timing is impeccable...now that I am pregnant (yes, 6 weeks along and due October 22nd), I need his help so much and could NOT do this with him being gone for 10 days at a time. He has been so helpful and encouraging. He takes care of Phoenix and all the housework for me when I am just too sick to get off the floor, which this week has been everyday. I remember being sick with Phoenix, but not this sick. Ugh.
We visited my Texas family in January. That was so much fun. Phoenix and Lily both walk now and actually played together for the first time. Also, a couple of weeks ago, we drove to Gilbert, Arizona. We stayed with our friends, Nate and Taryn, and Isaac spent the week selling alarms for the first time since last summer. He is starting to get the hang of it again. We move to Washington in May for the summer. I thought we would never do another summer of alarm sales, and yet here we are. I prayed for the Lord to give us something besides VitaMix, and alarms is not the best option but it will be another great adventure. Luckily I should be done with this "morning sickness" ( more like 24/7 sickness) by the time we move to Washington and Isaac has to be away from home for 10-12 hours a day again.
I have not been reading my Bible or praying as often as I should. Also, exercise is difficult with my nausea and upset stomach. But I am making it a goal to do better in these areas. I always feel 100% better about life when I put God first, where He should always be, and take care of myself by exercising. It's just been so hard this week since I feel like I could lay in bed all day and I rarely feel like doing anything at all.
I have to take Scripture and personalize it: "I can do ALL things (even live through the first trimester of pregnancy) through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13. "For I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11. Father God, please help me through this. You have blessed me with this baby, and now I pray that You will help me deal with this sickness. Amen.
We visited my Texas family in January. That was so much fun. Phoenix and Lily both walk now and actually played together for the first time. Also, a couple of weeks ago, we drove to Gilbert, Arizona. We stayed with our friends, Nate and Taryn, and Isaac spent the week selling alarms for the first time since last summer. He is starting to get the hang of it again. We move to Washington in May for the summer. I thought we would never do another summer of alarm sales, and yet here we are. I prayed for the Lord to give us something besides VitaMix, and alarms is not the best option but it will be another great adventure. Luckily I should be done with this "morning sickness" ( more like 24/7 sickness) by the time we move to Washington and Isaac has to be away from home for 10-12 hours a day again.
I have not been reading my Bible or praying as often as I should. Also, exercise is difficult with my nausea and upset stomach. But I am making it a goal to do better in these areas. I always feel 100% better about life when I put God first, where He should always be, and take care of myself by exercising. It's just been so hard this week since I feel like I could lay in bed all day and I rarely feel like doing anything at all.
I have to take Scripture and personalize it: "I can do ALL things (even live through the first trimester of pregnancy) through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13. "For I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11. Father God, please help me through this. You have blessed me with this baby, and now I pray that You will help me deal with this sickness. Amen.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Heaven In A Bowl
It is ten days into the New Year. I have not even begun to touch the things I want to do this year. I refuse to call them my "New Year's Resolutions", since in the past I have never kept any of them. I just know there are some changes that need to be made in my life, and I plan on working on them daily. I will not say "Lose 5 pounds", but I will say "Eat healthier every day, and exercise more." I will not say "Read a chapter of the Bible every single day" but I will say "Spend more quiet time alone with God each day."
We survived our trip to Visalia. We drove home late New Year's Eve (Phoenix slept the whole time, yes!), and drove through Vegas at midnight. The roads were not busy since everyone was on the Strip partying. I did not want to be one of the partiers. Instead, I was having meaningful conversation with my hubby and enjoying our time together in the car. Much more special. :)
Isaac is away in Southern California on a ten day show right now. He gets back late Sunday, more like early Monday morning. And then on Tuesday the 19th, we are flying out to visit my parents in Texas. Yay! I finally get to watch my son play with his Aunt Lily. How weird, she is his aunt, but he is 2 months older than her. I am looking forward to a fun stay in Georgetown. I miss my family, they miss us, and Isaac could really use a few days away from the stress of work. We plan to visit a few fun Georgetown specialties, especially the Cotton Patch. This restaurant has this Bacon Cheddar Potato soup that I totally adore. Real, thick potato chunks with smooth, real cheddar cheese and buttery chunks of delicious bacon. It is like heaven in a bowl, people!
We survived our trip to Visalia. We drove home late New Year's Eve (Phoenix slept the whole time, yes!), and drove through Vegas at midnight. The roads were not busy since everyone was on the Strip partying. I did not want to be one of the partiers. Instead, I was having meaningful conversation with my hubby and enjoying our time together in the car. Much more special. :)
Isaac is away in Southern California on a ten day show right now. He gets back late Sunday, more like early Monday morning. And then on Tuesday the 19th, we are flying out to visit my parents in Texas. Yay! I finally get to watch my son play with his Aunt Lily. How weird, she is his aunt, but he is 2 months older than her. I am looking forward to a fun stay in Georgetown. I miss my family, they miss us, and Isaac could really use a few days away from the stress of work. We plan to visit a few fun Georgetown specialties, especially the Cotton Patch. This restaurant has this Bacon Cheddar Potato soup that I totally adore. Real, thick potato chunks with smooth, real cheddar cheese and buttery chunks of delicious bacon. It is like heaven in a bowl, people!
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Christmas
Christmas this year was incredible. I got to spend time with family, but most importantly, with my husband. I woke up Christmas morning to my dead but glowing tree and laying next to Isaac for the first time in a long time. Yay!
Some highlights of Christmas day...Isaac and I have not gotten each other Christmas gifts in a few years. So this year we decided to just fill each other's stockings. I gave him a few odds and ends that he needs for travelling for work (Axe body spray, travel size toiletries, etc) and a Bible. Very practical, all things he needs. He really surprised me this year. There is a marriage retreat I have wanted to go to with him for 3 years now, and he bought us tickets to the retreat. It is at our favorite Las Vegas hotel, The Red Rock Resort. We get to spend three days and two nights together alone, learning about God's design for marriage and growing in our love for each other. How exciting! Thanks babe. :)We ate lots of yummy food, including what I call Gamish Corn Hens (aka Cornish Game Hens)and my sister-in-law's delicious Oreo balls. Ahh...
Right now, Phoenix and I are in our La Quinta hotel room in Visalia, California. We made the seven hour drive yesterday, and upon arrival, realized we were stuck in a room half the size of what we were promised. This would normally be no big deal, but Phoenix and I will be living in this hotel for the next 5 days and we need space or we will go crazy! Isaac went straight down to the check-in desk and worked it all out. He came back up with a new key to a much more comfortable room. I am not an assertive person and would just as soon stay in the smaller, cramped room before I make a fuss. But that is why God gave me Isaac. He has the guts and heart to take care of his family and get us the room we need to stay sane during this trip. I love him for that. It is in these moments that I literally thank the Lord for giving me such an honest husband that doesn't get pushed around, like I would.
I am really looking forward to these next few days. Isaac will be at Costco working most of the time, but I get the luxury of seeing him in the morning and spending each night with him. That is all I could ask for. I brought all the necessities- tons of toys, Phoenix's portable bed, books and movies to keep us busy during the day while Isaac is gone. Isaac went last night at 10:00 PM to buy us groceries- bless him! And also, our new room's fridge was not working, so he unplugged it, carried the awkward thing over to the room we were in at first, and switched it with that fridge, which is much colder. Thank goodness for men like Isaac who might be a little rough on the edges, but also take good care of the ones they love. Can I get a shout out from all you women whose husbands are wonderful? :)
Some highlights of Christmas day...Isaac and I have not gotten each other Christmas gifts in a few years. So this year we decided to just fill each other's stockings. I gave him a few odds and ends that he needs for travelling for work (Axe body spray, travel size toiletries, etc) and a Bible. Very practical, all things he needs. He really surprised me this year. There is a marriage retreat I have wanted to go to with him for 3 years now, and he bought us tickets to the retreat. It is at our favorite Las Vegas hotel, The Red Rock Resort. We get to spend three days and two nights together alone, learning about God's design for marriage and growing in our love for each other. How exciting! Thanks babe. :)We ate lots of yummy food, including what I call Gamish Corn Hens (aka Cornish Game Hens)and my sister-in-law's delicious Oreo balls. Ahh...
Right now, Phoenix and I are in our La Quinta hotel room in Visalia, California. We made the seven hour drive yesterday, and upon arrival, realized we were stuck in a room half the size of what we were promised. This would normally be no big deal, but Phoenix and I will be living in this hotel for the next 5 days and we need space or we will go crazy! Isaac went straight down to the check-in desk and worked it all out. He came back up with a new key to a much more comfortable room. I am not an assertive person and would just as soon stay in the smaller, cramped room before I make a fuss. But that is why God gave me Isaac. He has the guts and heart to take care of his family and get us the room we need to stay sane during this trip. I love him for that. It is in these moments that I literally thank the Lord for giving me such an honest husband that doesn't get pushed around, like I would.
I am really looking forward to these next few days. Isaac will be at Costco working most of the time, but I get the luxury of seeing him in the morning and spending each night with him. That is all I could ask for. I brought all the necessities- tons of toys, Phoenix's portable bed, books and movies to keep us busy during the day while Isaac is gone. Isaac went last night at 10:00 PM to buy us groceries- bless him! And also, our new room's fridge was not working, so he unplugged it, carried the awkward thing over to the room we were in at first, and switched it with that fridge, which is much colder. Thank goodness for men like Isaac who might be a little rough on the edges, but also take good care of the ones they love. Can I get a shout out from all you women whose husbands are wonderful? :)
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Winter
Today while I was driving, I came to this conclusion: I am in the Winter season of my life. Life does have seasons. I am experiencing the cold, harsh, yet essential, season of Winter. It is not just about the weather. It is the Winter of my soul.
In the Winter, everything changes. It all goes dormant. The flowers wilt and fade, the grass dies, the leaves are long gone. There is not much green left, and everything is covered in a blanket of emptiness and cold. In some places it snows and freezes. I am very aware of the Winter characteristics my life has taken on. The long stretches of time spent alone, without my husband to spend time with. The many nights slept next to nobody, and cuddled up next to nothing. The dozens of moments I desire to share with Isaac, such as when Phoenix says a new word, but he is not here to experience things with me. Winter has made its company here. It is in the biting air outside, first thing in the morning. It is in the empty space of my home late at night. It is in my heart when I ache to be held in Isaac's arms.
I was encouraged, and smiled to myself, when I remembered what happens after Winter is over: Spring. Springtime, when the trees come to life again, and the flowers bloom in an array of colors, and the sky looks bluer and the air smells sweeter and the world is fresh and new again. Springtime, when we celebrate new life, and welcome good things back again. When the cold of Winter is long forgotten and the warmth of Spring is welcomed home.
My Spring is coming. I pray that the Lord will bring it to me now, but I know in my heart that these things cannot be rushed. Because without Winter, how could I appreciate the beauty of Spring? Without Winter, how could I have the brightness to look forward to? And without Winter, how could I know the things I am meant to learn?
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven...God has made everything beautful in its time." Ecclesiastes 3:1,11
In the Winter, everything changes. It all goes dormant. The flowers wilt and fade, the grass dies, the leaves are long gone. There is not much green left, and everything is covered in a blanket of emptiness and cold. In some places it snows and freezes. I am very aware of the Winter characteristics my life has taken on. The long stretches of time spent alone, without my husband to spend time with. The many nights slept next to nobody, and cuddled up next to nothing. The dozens of moments I desire to share with Isaac, such as when Phoenix says a new word, but he is not here to experience things with me. Winter has made its company here. It is in the biting air outside, first thing in the morning. It is in the empty space of my home late at night. It is in my heart when I ache to be held in Isaac's arms.
I was encouraged, and smiled to myself, when I remembered what happens after Winter is over: Spring. Springtime, when the trees come to life again, and the flowers bloom in an array of colors, and the sky looks bluer and the air smells sweeter and the world is fresh and new again. Springtime, when we celebrate new life, and welcome good things back again. When the cold of Winter is long forgotten and the warmth of Spring is welcomed home.
My Spring is coming. I pray that the Lord will bring it to me now, but I know in my heart that these things cannot be rushed. Because without Winter, how could I appreciate the beauty of Spring? Without Winter, how could I have the brightness to look forward to? And without Winter, how could I know the things I am meant to learn?
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven...God has made everything beautful in its time." Ecclesiastes 3:1,11
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Christmas 2009
Road Trip
About Me
Enjoy the Tunes
Ike and Jess
Bath time
Phoenix loves his bath
What a cutie
Look at that precious smile!
Family Time
Laughing and playing
Phoenix and Max
Play time
What's on Daddy's head?
pretty flowers in our backyard
Mommy and Me
Here's my cute boy!
Mom and baby in the Jeep
Our new-to-us car
I love my new high chair!
Wake Up Time
I slept through the night!
Just hanging out
What a cute smirk!
Smith Family
Spending time out in the Nevada desert
Sleepy baby
He sleeps a lot, huh?
Smith, Party of 5
Jess, Isaac, PHX, Max, and Jack
Wake up time!
Funny bath!
Mmm....blueberries!
Laughing with Daddy
I drink my sippy all by myself!
The View From the Porch
Phoenix and Daddy with one of the rabbits
Just goin' for a walk
Mom and Phoenix
My two guys, the loves of my life
Breakfast with Daddy is his favorite thing now
Phoenix playing with Brooklyn, our friends' daughter, in Arizona
Lily, my adorable sister
Loving his toy mower
Climbing into the laundry basket
Max was licking his hair, which made it crazier than usual.
I have been meaning to teach him how to stack these things up like this...
but then one night he figured it out all on his own!
Getting ready for church. I could not tame his hair, just like Isaac's!
Admiring his church clothes.
Like father, like son. They are watching Monster Trucks on youtube. They did this ALL MORNING. :)
We call these his Ninja Jammies. Isaac got them at a Dollar Store in California.
Playing in the sandbox, he loves to get dirty. What a boy!
Phoenix loves to take rides on Max's back
Being goofy
Our kitchen
Isaac made our headboard from barn wood
Phoenix in Mommy's tummy
My big boy!
Happy 24th to Isaac
Laughing after bath time
The whole family at church
Bath time with Aunt Lily
Phoenix was a little wiggly...
Us before I got pregnant
We miss Max!
We miss Jack too!
Almost a year old!
Daddy and phx in the pool
mr. frog
Phoenix loves swimming with Mommy
so much fun!
My hubby's new haircut!
The last shot of Isaac's long hair...
He loves the porch
Mommy and Phoenix
Cuddle time
