To Heaven and Back

January Always Leaves a Memory

2012-01-27T10:28:00.000-06:00

It was five years ago this week that Brian and I realized God wanted us to marry. Literally, it all happened in one quick week. In 8 short days in January 2007, I celebrated my 24th birthday then went from single to engaged, and just two months later, I was married. Seriously, I cannot put into words how thankful I am for that January. It was one of the greatest months of my life, and it is still one I cherish. I don't think Brian and I could have EVER imagined how much we would be handed in the years that followed.

I'll spare the details of our past five years, but this January has become one I'll never forget. Just a week ago, when Brian and I were discussing what I'd like to do for my 29th birthday, our 20-month-old became a bit sick. He was coughing and breathing heavily. I took him to the pediatrician on a Thursay, just 4 days before my birthday. The outcome wasn't one to celebrate. In fact, the doctor believed he was in the beginning stages of pneumonia and quite possibly had strep throat. Samuel was so hysterical in the office that she decided not to swab him. He was put on a strong, 10-day antibiotic.

Just two days later, my breathing became shallow, difficult, and burned. I feared that I too, 23 weeks pregnant, had gotten pneumonia as well. We landed in the ER on Saturday, January 21st, the day before my birthday. After bloodwork, respiratory bloodwork, an EKG, breathing treatment, and a breathing treatment, I was diagnosed with bronchitis. I was sent home with a 5-day antiobiotic, inhaler, and cough medicine. Needless to say, I missed my own birthday. :) I slept at home on the couch while the boys went to Mimi's house and Brian went to church.

At my follow-up appointment on Tuesday, I knew I hadn't improved. My breathing was still awful, and I couldn't quit coughing. Sure enough, it had worsened into an asthmatic breathing. SO, I was going home on daily breathing treatments, up to 4 times a day.

That afternoon, when I picked the boys up from Mother's Day Out, Daniel's teacher told me he had coughed all through the day. I, suspecting the worse, immediately called the pediatrician and Mimi, and we headed to the office. Thankfully, it was only a cold. However, the next day, I realized Daniel was worse. He was coughing uncontrollably. He just couldn't stop. I gave him his inhaler and a breathing treatment. I even gave him some Tylenol when I loaded him in the van to head to church. He kept saying, "I can't not breath. Please take care of me, Mommy." I guessed he was so whiny due to no nap that Wednesday afternoon.

When we arrived at church, I realized it was inevitable. Either Daniel's asthma was REALLY working against him or he was really sick. His body was hot. I gave him Motrin, hoping it would take care of the heat, but when Daniel wasn't willing to play in the nursery and clinged to me, I knew it was sickness. Throughout the night, his temperature continued to rise, and despite doses of Tylenol and Motrin, the fever would not go below 102. Thursday, we headed to the pediatrician. He had not eaten since lunch on Wednesday, and it was very little. Getting him to drink had also become difficult. His cough was awful and his fever was high.

They tested for flu, which came back negative, and they also tested for RSV, which was positive. He was given a breathing treatment, but the wheezing continued on his right side. Daniel and I were sent to get a chest x-ray, fearing pneumonia. However, the results were clear, and he was prescribed steroids, breathing treatments 4 times a day, and Tylenol. With RSV, we can only treat symptoms; the virus itself has to run its course.

January 2012 has proved itself fairly memorable. I haven't had my Red Robin birthday burger yet, but I imagine that won't be what I'll remember about this month. It will be the precious, quiet and scary moments with my sick self and children. More importantly, I'll know I was blessed five years ago with the beginning of this beautiful life I've been given despite its sicknesses and sorrows.

My First Name, Really

2012-01-18T12:40:00.000-06:00

For whatever reason, my two toddlers have turned from calling me, "Mommy," to "Jenna." It doesn't really bother me; in fact, it actually makes me laugh. I almost cannot take them seriously when they do so. I find it hard to look in the face of a 2 year old who has just said, "Jenna, listen here. I need your help." It's also quite difficult when a 1 year old says, "Jenna, help me." They repeat it until I answer.

I think this has hit home for me in light of the fact that God knows me by name as well. He speaks to me so many times, and yet it takes His calling my name out for me to pay attention to His voice. How many times does it take for us to listen when God is calling our names? I want to answer when He calls. I don't want Him to have to repeat Himself. I want to come ready.

I need to do the same for my children. They have somehow learned that "Jenna" is what I answer to. Maybe it's because I laugh, but they know they can get my attention by calling me the name everyone else they know calls me. What a beautiful picture these two boys have painted for me! They know that Mommy will answer to her name. Does she listen when God speaks it?!

32 and 33.

2012-01-13T15:34:00.001-06:00

Daniel is a whopping 33 months old this month, and last month, when he turned 32 months, was so busy that I failed to update on his progress and changes. So, without further adieu, here are Daniel's 32nd and 33rd month posts in one.

In His 32nd Month, Daniel:
Weighed 33 lbs.
Wore a size 8.5 or 9 in shoes.
Was in size 5 diapers.
Wore size 3T in clothes.
Wore some 2T but they were getting 2Tight.
Was more rambunctious than I can explain.
Loved Christmas tree decorating.
The tree's jingle bells made him so happy.
Had the honor of placing the "Crown of Thorns" on our tree.
Loved Christmas lights, especially the neighbor's nativity scene.
Always recognized called baby Jesus, "God-Jesus."
Thought Santa was a snowman. Thank goodness.
Spent a few hours in the ER in early December.
Climbed the counter, opened the cough syrup bottle, and drank it.
Shared some with little brother, Samuel.
Mom called poison control who said ER was a must.
Peed in a little bag for his urine sample.
Quite exciting for a 2 1/2 year old.
Got lots of snacks (and laughts) from the doctors and nurses.
Was sent home with no problems at all.
Really liked to open presents.
Liked opening everyone else's gifts as well.
Was great about saying, "Please" and "Thank you."
Was diagnosed with a small heart murmur.
No worries, as it will come and go around the age of 3.
Loved eating apples without the peels.
Missed being in Mother's Day Out.
Liked to party.
Always wanted to watch a dvd.
Still scared of alligators and sharks when going to bed.
SUPER frightened by the dark.

"I can't not like my picture."

Cheese!

In His 33rd Month, Daniel:
Was 32 lbs. Got a cold and lost some weight.
Still the same size in diapers and clothes.
Went to see Opryland Hotel on Christmas Eve.
Really liked seeing the lights and Shrek.
Told us he "needed" milkshakes.
Ice Cream was his favorite snack.
Loved presents.
Couldn't wait for Christmas, though he didn't know what it was.
Liked to pretend to wrap everything.
Thought he should get a present every day.
Favorite gifts were his tricycle and dvds.
OH, and he loved the Buzz and Woody toys.
Liked paper airplanes and making things "Pop."
Big on the sound of "popping."
Looked so handsome on Christmas day.
Told everyone he was wearing a train shirt.
Would wake every morning and from every nap, exclaiming,
"I DID IT!"
Recognized all his body parts. ALL of them.
Could recognize colors: black, blue, red, green, yellow, etc.
Wasn't great with them but give him Thomas trains,
and he could tell you exactly what color each was.
Could count 1-10, but always missed 4.
Started telling us with his fingers how old he was.
Still not potty trained,
but hated dirty diapers and being wet.
Was concerned where his friends lived.
Would tell us he wanted to see them all the time.
Prayed over his meals... "God is great, thank you, God."
Was very quick about doing so.
Long-winded prayers were not his style!
Had SUCH an attitude.
For example, popular phrases of his "attitude" include:

"That's fair!" meaning that's not fair.
"I can't like that."
"I stay here... by myself!" when it was time to leave.
"I the boss, Mom."
"Jenna, listen. Look at me."
"I got a problem."
"Fix it, now."

Favorite snack was gummies.
Favorite song was "What a Mighty God."
Missed New Year's by 30 minutes...
Fell asleep on the couch with Mommy.
Loved to be praised.
Did NOT like to be laughed at or with.
LOVED snow. Would stay out in it for hours...
despite the cold weather.
Could answer Bible story questions really well.
Had a hard time sitting still in Sunday school.
Liked painting and coloring.
Asked for the "Diesels" a lot - a Thomas movie.
Spent the night at Mimi's all by himself.
Asked, "What's your name?" all the time.
Always answered with, "My name is Daniel Benjamin."

Laughing at his paper airplane hitting the fan.

Christmas Eve at Opryland = Big Smiles

"Cheesing" at Church on Christmas morning

Big Kid riding his gift from Grandpa.

Loves dressing his magnetic man, Jack.

Saying "Bye" to Daddy before spending the night with Mimi

He and his friends from Toy Story were having a talk.

Less than an hour away from 2012...

Mommy and Daniel could NOT stay awake!

Samuel's 19th and 20th Months

2012-01-13T13:44:00.000-06:00

Since I missed Samuel's monthly post in December and it is now January, I figured I could combine two months in one post...

In His 19th Month, Samuel:
Weighed 24 lbs.
Wore size 4 diapers.
Could wear size 5 and 5 1/2 extra wide shoes.
Began wearing some 12-18 month clothes.
Really liked putting up the Christmas tree.
His favorite decor was jingle bells.
Spent a few hours in the ER early in December.
Had gotten a drink of Mommy's cough medicine from big brother.
It had hydrocodone in it.
Particularly loved the snacks in the ER...
popsicles, graham crackers, peanut butter, and others.
Did not like rain or cold weather.
Did not appreciate having to wear a jacket.
Hated riding in a stroller.
Was becoming quite independent.
Loved watching and playing with Elmo toys.
Sports balls were his favorite toys.
Had lots of fun at the church Christmas fellowship.
Got a lot of gifts from sweet friends during the month.
Visited the Opryland Hotel on Christmas Eve.

Playing with the trumpet from the Christmas tree.

Picture with brother and Daddy.

Sweet cheeks with Daniel and Mommy.

Riding on Daddy's shoulders at Opryland.

Family at Opryland

In His 20th Month, Samuel:
Wore mostly 12-18 month clothes.
Would eat all day long.
Always said, "I hungee."
Frequently asked question was, "What you doin'?"
Talked up a storm. Honestly, sentences and questions galore!
Used the word, "Yeah," all the time.
Celebrated Christmas in many different houses.
Loved playing with "Atalie" over the holidays.
Really liked the grill and food Mimi got him.
Thought he could climb and fly.
Loved jumping off the coffee table...
pretending to be Buzz Lightyear.
Would say, "And beyond!"
Thanks to Christmas gifts from Aunt Ca and Mema.
Slept through the New Year ball drop.
Liked to spin in circles.
Found out he'd be having a baby brother!
Started liking Thomas the train.
Loved pretending to scare people.
Was quite animated and like to make us laugh.
Could name most all of his body parts.
Recognized the colors, blue, yellow, and green.
Could count 1-3. Sometimes 4 and 5.
Liked singing the last words of songs.
Clapped for songs he liked.
Was very verbal about what he wanted.
Was still so sweet and loved to be hugged.
Didn't like wearing socks.
Loved wearing pajamas.
Moved from his crib to his new toddler bed.
Made spaghetti his favorite food.
Really liked snacking on raisins and oyster crackers.
Loved, loved fruits like strawberries, grapes, and bananas.
Did not like eating ground beef or soup.
Favorite drink was chocolate (milk).
Disliked juice for the most part.
Began throwing tantrums and hitting back.
Was scared of spankings.
Was not frightened by the dark.
Called Mommy by her first name.
Told us when he wanted to go night-night.
Really liked snow, but didn't like the coldness of it.

"It's Elmo, Mommy. See?!"

Where's the camera, Samuel?

"What are you eating, buddy?"

"Cancakes."

Someone wanted to make a guess on what his baby brother would be! Samuel grabbed the food coloring, spilled it on the floor, and walked right through it.

"Samuel, are you excited about your big bed?"

"Yeah."

Baby Johnson #3 Announcement

2012-01-09T18:45:00.000-06:00

So, this was the surprise we received on Sunday, September 11th, 2011.

And, just 3 and a half months later,

it was time to figure out a way to surprise the family

with the baby's gender.

Jenna made cookies...

She made her guess on the baby's gender

just a day before the big ultrasound!

The only reason she guessed boy was because

all of the girl cookies ended up like this...

Jenna had thought girl all along due to such a different pregnancy.

She's been sick the entire twenty weeks thus far.

She's extremely tired and exhausted.

She's the most hormonal she's EVER been.

These were the surprises Jenna prepared for Brian and the family...

"Boy or Girl, it will be so sweet.

To know for sure, enjoy this treat."

After the ultrasound, Jenna headed downtown

to share the gender news with Brian.

Wearing blue for his vote, he opened his cookie to find...

BLUE!

Baby BOY Johnson #3 will arrive on or before May 21, 2012.

And just so you know, big brothers will share their 3rd and 2nd birthdays with a joint party this year in APRIL due to the fact that brother #3 is due just two days before Samuel's birthday.

Big and Behind

2012-01-09T18:01:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe how big Daniel and Samuel are getting. It literally is flashing before my eyes! Today, Samuel was sitting on Daniel's tricycle, when out of nowhere, he yells out, "Jenna. Wha're you doin'?" First off, he is completing sentences at 19 months old. Secondly, my baby is calling me by my first name! Now, that is big! He will even say, "I big!"

As for being behind, I just noticed that the boys are now 32 months and 19 months old. Wow!

In terms of being big and behind, I'd be lying if I wasn't talking about myself some. At 21 weeks with Baby #3, it's quite inevitable! :)

List of Latest Words

2012-01-03T19:54:00.001-06:00

Samuel's List of Latest Words

No
Towel
Baf (bath)
Yeah
Coc-late (chocolate milk)
Go
Bye
I hungee (hungry)
Cookie
Cwacker
Cake
Eat
Mommy.
Daddy.
Danyule
Baby
Car
Twactor (tractor)
Diaper
What're you doin'?
I wanna _____ (insert what he wants as for food, drink, or to do).
Night night.
Yeah.
No, Mom. No, Dad.
I pee-pee.
Baz-ball. (basketball)
Biscuit.

Daniel's List of Latest Words

What are you doing?
Where are you going?
Please, I want more.
Please, give me more.
I want a sandmich.
I want butter jelly now.
I love you.
That's blue.
I riding my bike.
Samuel eat my apple. Samuel hit me. Samuel pushed me.
Here you go, Dad.
I a big kid.
What's your name?
I Daniel Benjamin.
Awesome. Amazing.
It got dropped. It dropping down.
The gate shut down there.
telling scene from Toy Story 3... The bridge broke. The bridge on fire. Oh no, the train is down. Oh, no. It's Buzz! Buzz got the train!
Turn that back on! Turn that t.v. back on!
Mimi play "Joy, Joy" on the piano.
Ta Da! I did it!
I sleep in my bed. All by myself.
I wanna go.

Top Ten (and then some) of 2011

2011-12-31T19:42:00.001-06:00

Brian mentioned today that he wanted to start an end-of-the-year tradition, and while it's a great idea, modge podge and two toddlers does not sound exciting for me. :)

However, the idea was writing down our top five blessings of the year and creating canvases each year to represent them. I loved the thought of looking back to see what God has done this year.

So, here they are, my top ten moments and blessings of the year 2011 in no particular order:

Finding joy in the days following December 31, 2010. We said goodbye to our fourth child that day after a miscarriage, and despite the sting and pain of loss, we were able to rest in the JOY and sweet excitement that little baby brought.
The success of Samuel's surgery... We knew it was non-invasive, but the idea of our 11 month old being put to sleep and going under the knife was quite tramatic. His skin tag was removed, and it turned out to be even more of a miracle when we learned that the tag was actually a part of his ear, which currently shows no signs of problem.
Celebrating Daniel's 2nd birthday in our backyard with a train party! He was too cute when he saw his very own train tracks spray-painted silver through his yard and again when he ate his third cupcake of the day.
Taking a trip with my husband to Alaska and sharing life and memories with dear friends. Nine days away (without the boys) did us such good, the revival services were uplifting, and the experiences and sights we encountered will last us a life time.
Visiting Michigan and Missouri for revivals and spending time with our brothers and their adorable wives and children. From zoo trips and Silver Dollar City to honest talks and hilarious laughs, we spent our time in church and hearts were bound with our friends.
Watching Samuel push his 1st birthday cake away... He did NOT enjoy all of the attention, and his brother ended up eating his cake. We had an amazing picnic party in the backyard and shared sweets and fun with Samuel's friends and family.
The suspicion that I might be pregnant and the reaction of the positive pregnancy test on September 11, 2011. While we weren't trying, the two lines shocked us! We were so excited and scared of what was to come. Here we are 20 weeks later, and we still don't know the baby's gender.
The unexpected job offer that landed Brian working for the Nashville Rescue Mission. We knew the Lord wanted him back in the work force, but we had no idea Brian would end up working for the place he volunteered at for eight years. His faithfulness was rewarded in such an awesome way!
The provision and protection that God brought to our family this year. From surgery and emergency room visits to airplane rides and daily walks down the street, God always kept us safe and healthy.
The pure innocence and enjoyment of the holidays with toddlers. Daniel and Samuel melted our hearts this year with their love of lights, presents, and spending time with family. Daniel began calling every nativity scene, "God-Jesus," and Samuel started saying, "Love you."

Honorable Mentions:

The scares, laughs, and memories of spending four hours in the ER with both boys who had managed to drink 40 mL of hydrocodone cough medicine.
The fun and excitement of our family vacation in Gatlinburg. My mom and dad spoiled us all so rotten and gave us one of the greatest vacations ever.
The surprise wedding of my sister! It was such an honor to share that with her. I couldn't have imagined it any other way.
The alligators and sharks Daniel claimed to see at bedtime. He began sleepwalking and talking this year, and it's been quite entertaining. Daniel's stories and explanations are hilarious!
Seeing the "light" come on in Samuel's little mind... He speaks so incredibly well, and he is picking up on personality despite his usual timidness and shy disposition. He says sentences and explains things very clearly at 18 months old. Samuel amazes me!
Watching my husband find pleasure in both preaching and working... He strives to be the best at every single thing he does, and I'll be honest in saying that I wasn't sure how being a pastor and a full-time counselor would work for him and our family. However, he doesn't just make it work; he excels at it and still finds time to love our family. I'm honored to be his wife, friend, and biggest fan.

A Big Christmas Surprise

2011-12-28T10:17:00.000-06:00

I have to be honest, there isn't much that really surprises me. However, this year despite awesome gifts, what caught me by surprise was the overwhelming response I would receive when answering the once-a-year question, "What is Santa going to bring you?"

I, of course, answered for each of my children when this question was turned in our direction, because let's face it, our kids don't know who that white-bearded man is! In fact, Daniel calls him, "Snowman." Almost every stop we made during the weeks leading up to Christmas met us with this age-old question, and I was shocked and overwhelmingly disappointed at people's responses when I explained that Santa wouldn't be visiting our house. I would quickly exclaim that Daniel and Samuel would be getting three gifts from their parents just as Jesus received three presents from the wise men. We'd be celebrating the true miracle of Christmas, the One who lives in our hearts, and not the one in the world's imagination.

Well, you would think these people believed I was depriving our boys due to the fact that Santa wouldn't be coming, when I feel as though we are giving them the greatest gift there is - truth and life! I wish I could explain the looks on these women's faces as the disappointment welled up within them. I wish I could tell you how sorry I felt for each of them. I wish I could have shaken their shoulders and helped them to understand that our decision was best for our family. There was no way to do this, because the pitiful truth is that "Santa" has become what Christmas is about.

Whether we'll admit it or not, our society is obsessed with Santa Claus. He is everywhere the day after Halloween, and strangely enough, he is a whopping 66% off the day after Christmas. How sad is that?! We wrap ourselves up in this falsehood that has nothing to do with what this holiday was intended to be about, and I am absolutely certain that my children are better off without him.

However, what would break my heart is knowing that I didn't take the opportunity each year (and on a daily basis, more importantly) to teach our boys about the Baby that came to die for their sins. He came to take away the sadness the world experiences once Christmas day is over. He came for them as the most precious and priceless gift that was ever given, and He was given to them.

What surprised me most this year was the fact that people could not see how important this Baby was to our family! We turned to Him rather than a man in a red coat to give gifts to our children. And you know what? Our boys were thrilled with their three gifts! They are the gifts they are still playing with three days following the holiday. My heart is overjoyed with the miracle that is Jesus Christ, and I pray that one day, He'll surprise my children with the great gift of salvation. This is what Christmas means to me.

In Fearful Awe

2011-12-09T09:46:00.002-06:00

I've been blessed to have taken our two boys to the Emergency Room on Monday. Although that sounds much like an oxymoron, today, I feel it is tremendously true. As I watch them run around in their pajamas on this cold December Friday, I realize how blessed I am to have them after the scare we had on Monday.

My husband called at 10:46 a.m., asking me to look in the office for his yellow notebook as he had written some important information in it and had left it at home. Four minutes later, I walked into the living room to find the boys in the floor with one of our red cups. I immediately grabbed the cup out of Daniel's hands and smacked his leg, as he is quite aware that he is not allowed to drink from a cup in the living room. However, to my surprise and fear, I realized that the liquid in the cup was not a drink my kids should have been drinking.

A few days earlier, I had been diagnosed with bronchitis, and on top of an antibiotic, I was prescribed a cough syrup with hydrocodone in it. I was to take the syrup, a 5 mL dosage, nightly before bed to help ease the cough I'd been "plagued" with. This, of course, did not need to be in the reach of my children, and yet this is what I found in the red cup I'd pulled from Daniel's grip.

My heart sank. I knew that a small amount could be very dangerous in my two toddlers' bodies, so I emptied the remaining syrup from the cup back into the prescribed bottle and crying, called the pharmacist. While she was very calm, the immensity of the whole situation was alarming to me, and I could not stop crying. She felt that the boys had drank approximately 40 mL of the syrup and that I should very closely observe them and not allow them to sleep more than thirty minutes at a time. I was also told to call the pediatrician to make them aware of the situation.

When I called the pediatrician, the situation became much scarier. I was to call Poison Control immediately...

I imagine that at this point I should explain how I believe Daniel and Samuel got the medicine to begin with. It was on top of the kitchen counter in the pharmacy bottle. Daniel used his Sit-N-Spin to climb the counter, grab the medicine bottle, somehow get the childproof top opened, pick a cup out of the sink, pour the cough syrup into the cup, then climb back down and share with his brother. I am still in awe of my two and a half year old's actions that day.

Upon speaking with Poison Control, I became quite hysterical. I was to get in the car, drive to the ER, and make certain that neither child fell asleep. IF one were to fall asleep, I needed to call 9-1-1, as the hydrocodone could keep the boys from breathing. Somewhere in these quick minutes, I had called my sister, who had sped over to help. She was able to keep Samuel awake in the van while on our way to the ER. Thankfully, Daniel never even acted phased. He was his typical energetic, humorous self. He was actually explaining to Aunt Ca what he had done. "I got Mommy's med-cine. It was yucky. Yes, I share with Samuel. He can't not like it. He spit it out. It nasty."

I'll spare the details of our 5 hour observation in the Emergency Room, as it was just that. Five hours with two toddlers in an emergency room with no television and in their pajamas. The best parts of that adventure were the graham cracker snacks with peanut butter, Daniel's pee-ing in the urine bag :), and receiving red popsicles once we learned that the tests were negative and the boys were okay.

The ER physician believes that either Daniel's body handled the medication well or that the bottle of medicine didn't have the correct amount of liquid in it when it was prescribed to me. Either way, he was laughing at how adventurous my life must be on a daily basis. I was finally able to laugh too...

It was on the following day that I broke. I dropped the boys off at Mother's Day Out, and Daniel cried for me not to leave. Oh, how my heart was filled with such relief that he and Samuel were okay! No one knew how scared I'd been the day before, how guilty I felt, and how close I'd come to having some very sick children. The tears continued to fall the entire five hours the boys were at school. I couldn't believe how God had taken this terrible situation and caused my heart to ache for my children. I really wanted to see them. I didn't like them being away from me. I had learned to appreciate their sweet faces and actions and how to NOT take them forgranted in one short day. Holding them that afternoon after school was one of the best feelings I've ever had. I'm in awe of how good God is.

Daniel and Christmas Decor

2011-12-01T09:38:00.001-06:00

Daniel: Mom, Daniel wanna go see Mickey Mouse (as we are pulling into the subdivision).
Mommy: Okay, wait just a minute. I have to get through the stop sign.
Daniel: Okay.
Mom: Look, there he is!
Daniel: He's so pretty. Go see Daddy.
Mom: (turning the car around) Tell Mickey "Good Night."
Daniel: Night Mickey (and noticing the nativity scene to Mickey's left), bye-bye God-Jesus.

Daniel: It's our tree!
Mom: Do you like it?
Daniel: I love it!

Mommy to Daddy: I cannot understand why he (our neighbor) would decorate the front and the back of his house with lights. Seems like a waste.
Two Days Later
Daniel: Look, look! (standing at the kitchen window, admiring the back of our neighbor's house)
Mom: What is it?
Daniel: It's lights! Come look, Mommy.
Mom: Oh, I see. They are wonderful.
Daniel: They are on the trees, on the house... They are big, big!

Daniel: (pulling in the driveway) I wanna see more, more lights.

Daniel: Can Daniel's house get lights?

Mom: Daniel, look out Samuel's window. I see a big tree with lights!
Daniel: I can't not see it.
Mom: Keep looking, baby.
Daniel: I can't not like it.
Mom: Why?
Daniel: It's too little.

Daddy: Jesus is the what?
Daniel: ...the light of da world!

The 18 Month Stats

2011-12-01T09:27:00.000-06:00

Samuel went for his 18 month well visit yesterday, and while I'm certain not many of you are interested in this numbers, I happen to be!

Samuel is 23 pounds. This puts him in the 35-40th percentile for weight.
He is 30.75 inches tall. He is in the 5th percentile for heighth.
His head circumference is 19. Again, in the 35-40th percentile.

So, our little bit is actually quite little. These stats just helped this Mom realize why Samuel is still wearing 12 month clothes!

18 Super Sweet Months.

2011-11-28T00:32:00.000-06:00

In Samuel's 18th Month, He:
Weighed only 22-23 pounds.
Wore a size 4 diaper.
Wore size 12 months in clothes.
Shoe size was a 5.5 extra wide.
Was very shy.
Was the best eater.
Was a picky eater.
Did not like to try new things.
Was frightened by many situations.
Was attached to his Mommy.
Had a harder time falling asleep.
Went through about 20 bananas in a week!
Was sick for over a month.
Coughed, wheezed, etc.
Breathing treatments and 2 antibiotic rounds.
Had 4 pediatrician visits in a month.
One of those included a trip to get a chest x-ray.
Cried because Mommy couldn't hold him during it.
Had an infection in his lungs despite all the meds.
Was Sir Topham Hatt for Halloween.
Really liked candy.
Went on vacation with his whole family.
Liked Gatlinburg.
Slept in the van a lot.
Loved to sing.
L-O-V-E-D Five Guys and Fries restaurant.
Enjoyed playing on the playground at Ober Gatlinburg.
Was becoming quite daring and more independent.
Gained himself an attitude.
Said "no" all the time.
Talked up a storm.
Said words that surprised us!
Mimicking many adult words.
Pretended to pray like Daddy.
Disliked getting dressed and having his diaper changed.
Liked talking on the phone.
Followed his brother.
Bit his brother often.
Hit his brother often.
Told brother "no-no" all the time.
Began saying, "yeah" for yes.

Some of Samuel's Favorite Things:

Food(s): Spaghetti, Pizza, Sandwiches, Macaroni and Cheese

Toy(s): Elmo, Lightning McQueen car, Books

Show(s): Sesame Street

Movie(s): Elmo in Grouchland, Dora

Snack(s): Bananas, Chips

Song(s): Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and Amazing Grace

Color(s): Green and Yellow

Thing to Do: Sing, Pretend to Song-Lead

People: Mommy

Samuel's Popular Words/Phrases of His 31st Month:

Peez. (please)
Shhh.
Dan-yule.
Sit.
I hungee. (hungry)
Nana. (banana)
Bol. (bowl)
MMM, good.
No-no, Dan-yule.
Yeah.
Funny.
Ow-side. (outside)
Sowwy. (sorry)
Tank you. (thank you)
Hi. Bye.
Schoo. (school)
Pa. Mimi. Ca. Duttin. Mom. Daddy. Adlie. Pop.

Some of Samuel's 18th Month Highlights:

Chips, his favorite snack.

Chowing down on his very first, TWO S'mores.

Sir Topham Hatt was under the weather

on Halloween...

Despite the fever,

he seemed perfectly content

to eat snacks as a bribe

at his doctor visit.

His favorite seat.

The rock fireplace at the condo in Gatlinburg.

Singing, the very first thing he does

every morning after waking way too early.

Here, Grandpa joins in.

Ketchup makes everything taste so good.

He's saying, "Good."

Rocking with his cousin, Adlie (Natalie).

He didn't eat this "All-You-Can-

Eat-Pancake" by himself.

They should advertise the fact

that "All-You-Can-Eat" means

the size of a large pizza. Goodness!

Getting brave, looking super tiny, and riding

the carousel with Uncle Duttin (Dustin).

Who's that in the rope tunnel?!

Oh. my. word. It was SAMUEL!

We were all in shock that

he was that courageous!

Samuel enjoyed the turtle

much more than the bears, owls, raccoons, etc.

Wildlife is for the birds.

Turtles are for Samuel.

31 Months Old...

2011-11-27T23:37:00.000-06:00

Daniel will be three in five short months... Yikes! So, I am going to cherish these monthly updates until then, because I am going to have to slow down after that, as Daniel will be welcoming a new sibling into the family.

In Daniel's 31st Month, He:
Still wore a size 4 diaper.
Wore size 8 1/2 in shoes.
Wore some 2T and mostly 3T clothes.
Weighed about 33 pounds.
Was extremely sassy and bossy.
Was a ridiculous climber.
Was very sneaky.
Was not a big eater.
In fact, he almost never ate.
Was Thomas the Train for Halloween.
Talked in sentences... Paragraphs even.
Did not like to stay at home.
Did NOT like to be laughed at or with.
Hated wearing socks and shoes.
Peed in the potty some on his own.
Cracked a whole carton of eggs onto the coffee table.
Took a family vacation to Gatlinburg.
Saw a black bear in Cades Cove.
Loved riding the train at Ober Gatlinburg.
Disliked outlet shopping.
Could not sit still in a restaurant.
Rode the chair lift with Daddy.
Came down the alpine slide with Daddy.
Ice-skated for the very first time with Daddy.
Liked talking with Grandpa.
Was always wanting to snack.
Got quiet when up to no good.
Loved to run and slide.
Liked hiding and "building" towers and tents.
Woke atleast 3-4 times a night.
Sleepwalked and talked. Yikes.
Had a fear of the dark, alligators, and sharks.
We had no idea why.
Swore there were alligators in the corner of his room.

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:

Food(s): Spaghetti

Toy(s): Puzzles, Towers

Show(s): Word World, Wild Kratts

Movie(s): Cars, Toy Story, Annie

Snack(s): Gummy Snacks, Apples w/ NO peel, Candy

Song(s): ABCs

Color(s): Blue and Black

Thing to Do: Climb the Fridge, Oven, or Counters

People: Grandpa, Mimi

Daniel's Popular Phrases of His 31st Month:
We still aren't sure where he gets his bossy attitude!

Stop it!
Stop that!
Shhh.
Be quiet.
Shut it.
I not like it.
I stay here.
Daniel go to timeout.
No no spanking.
Listen to me, Mommy.
Pst... (to get your attention)
Excuse me. (after certain actions were made)
It's God-Jesus! Look! (upon seeing churches, crosses, or baby Jesus)

Some of His 31st Month Highlights:

Giving little brother some lovin'.

Eating Cheetos in the living room.

What was Mom thinking?!

Having a taste of his very first S'more.

Where Daniel was often found...

In the kitchen sink,

naked,

in the pile of dirty dishes,

water running over,

with Dawn bubbles he'd poured in himself!

Sir Topham Hatt and Thomas the Train

make a stop at Pop and Gran-Ju's house.

With Mommy at the Old Mill Restaurant

in Pigeon Forge.

As a side note, Daniel loved feeding the ducks,

but despised when the pigeons came near and

stole their food.

Smiling and sharing with "Atlie" (Natalie).

We take this kiddo to

Five Guys and Fries

for a burger, and

what does he want?!

Cereal and peanuts, of course.

Taking a ride on the Grandpa "horsey."

Riding the Chair Lift with Daddy

to the Alpine Slide.

Mommy was a NERVOUS WRECK

watching this.

First time ice skating

in Gatlinburg.

First time seeing real bears

in Gatlinburg!

Overwhelmed Much?

2011-11-19T11:27:00.000-06:00

I am reminded on numerous occasions how overwhelming being a stay-at-home parent really is. I wish I could say that most days are rosy and that the boys and I are busy doing crafts and learning their ABCs, but let's face it...

Just Tuesday afternoon, while I ran into the master bath for a quick restroom break, I had no idea how overwhelmed I'd be once I walked into the living room. In the short time it took me to use the restroom, Daniel had snapped two of his train sets together on the coffee table, opened the fridge (on his own), climbed the fridge shelves, got out the carton of eggs, brought them into the living room, encouraged his brother to partake in the fun, and proceeded to crack every single egg onto the tracks, which of course, ended up all over the coffee table, my carpet, and the two of them! I should've taken a picture, but I was so frustrated with the situation that I didn't even yell. "Daniel, really?!" was all I mustered up to say. The clean-up process literally took an hour. UGH.

Then, on Wednesday morning, I had the great privilege of sharing our pregnancy news with my local MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) group. When asked what the ages of my other children were, I replied that I'd have kids that were "3, 2, and new," and to my not-so surprise, the women (who are all mothers themselves) gasped... All 50+ of them! Moments like that are both exciting and overwhelming, because I realize that having three under three will not be easy. Having two isn't easy... Honestly, having one isn't easy.

Having children is a constant OVERWHELMING adjustment, and it's one I adore most of the time. There are days that I wonder how God decided I would be capable of this. However, I'm realizing that God's grace is enough for me. It's sufficient in these overwhelming moments of parenthood. I'm learning that I cannot survive without His grace. In fact, each day would be even more challenging than it already is without my life in Christ. It's a blessing knowing that this is the life God chose for me. He decided that the two boys who are destroying my nicely, vacuumed living room right this minute would be perfect for me. I get shell-shocked everytime I think of that. What's really overwhelming is that God gave me this beautiful, little life, and it's mine to enjoy if I will. How can I not be overwhelmed by His grace when I picture these overwhelming moments like that?!

Just a Side Note...

2011-11-14T08:48:00.000-06:00

Samuel is feeding himself yogurt with a spoon for the first time...

Need I say more?!

The view from my seat is amazing! I'm truly blessed to watch our boys learn and grow on a cconstant basis.

Strange Sightings

2011-11-14T08:41:00.000-06:00

I woke to the sound of Daniel screaming my name last night around 3 a.m. While I wasn't exactly coherent, I came to find that he wasn't either. Upon my arrival, he had pulled his pillow and blanket into the floor and was hiding underneath them. I uncovered him only to discover that he wasn't really awake...

"Alligator, watch out!" he exclaimed.

I tried to get Daniel to explain this profound sighting, but he continued blabbering on about the alligator. He was telling me it was green and that it was on the basketball in the corner of his room. He was so clear in his details that I almost believed him. I didn't think I would EVER calm him down.

I got down in the floor, and he covered me under his blanket, still explaining that the alligator was in the room. This literally went on for 15 minutes, until I realized he was scared. I picked up him, his pillow, and his blanket and carried them all into the living room and put them on the couch, where he was still certain that we needed to "watch out" for the alligator.

Daniel has done things like this before, but now, I'm absolutely certain that we have a sleep talker on our hands! It was the sweetest, strangest thing I'd ever seen, knowing he was fast asleep but was carrying on a very serious conversation!

17 Months, Already...

2011-11-02T15:59:00.001-05:00

Samuel turned 17 months old on October 23rd!

In His 17th Month, Samuel:Weighed 23 lbs.
Was 30.5 inches tall.
Walked and ran (quite wobbly though).
Wore size 12 month clothes. STILL.
Could wear SOME 12-18 months.
Wore a size 5 1/2 extra wide in shoes.
In size 4 diapers.
Had really sensitive skin.
Disliked the sun in his eyes.
Was becoming quite independent.
Preferred his Mom over anybody.
Started in on his "toddler" age.
Liked to be left alone.
Loved to be going.
Always was pretending to sing.
Liked trees, being chased, and running.
Started to dislike the carseat.
Was a great car-rider.
Visited Louisville, KY, for a week-long revival.
Went to the Louisville Zoo.
LOVED the giraffes.
Pointed at everything.
Pretended to talk on the phone a lot.
Still would NOT make the sippy cup switch...
Super attached to bottles.

Favorite Things:
Food(s): cupcakes, spaghetti
Toy(s): balls, books, phones, and Elmo
Show(s): Sesame Street
Movie(s): Elmo in Grouchland, VeggieTales
Snack(s): goldfish, raisins, chips
Song: I'm a Little Teapot; Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
New Words He was Saying: hello. dink (drink). Atlie (Natalie). baby. eat. nana (banana). apple. go. side (outside). brudder (brother). veggie (VeggieTales)
Thing to Do: watch movies, ride in the red cozy coupe
People: Mommy

Some Other 17th Month Highlights:

Eating a leftover cupcake

from Mommy's 10 year high school reunion.

Thanks, Bec, for the leftovers!

Trying the sippy cup out.

Super baby blues!

Being a little mischievious,

jumping on the couch during church.

Trying to hold brother's hand before bedtime

in Louisville.

Calling Mimi from Louisville,

telling her, "Hi, hello."

Becoming less fearful and enjoyed being

tossed up in the air by Daddy.

Reaching up for the sky!

Spinning around with Mommy

always got a laugh out of Samuel!

Brothers holding hands

Sitting on the Rhino statue at the Louisville Zoo

Enjoying his first look at the baby giraffe

His very favorite...

Elmo was at the zoo!

Walking the path to the polar bears...

The zoo wore Samuel out!

Making his ever-popular

"surprised" face!

Dressing the Part

2011-11-01T13:13:00.001-05:00

Disclaimer: These are only my opinions! Do not feel you must adhere to them in any way.

Now, that the Halloween season has passed, we've dressed our children as characters and our stomachs are ~~way too~~ full of candy and chili, I want to give my honest opinion on the matter. As a new parent a couple of years ago, I struggled with holidays in general. I did not know how we would handle a dark night and another in which a man "comes down" our chimney (which, in fact, we do not have). I wanted, mostly, to be among the secular mind frame and play the part.

Until my husband stated his opinions on the matter...

I was crushed when he first told me he was opposed to Halloween, Santa, the Easter bunny, etc. In fact, I went against him on Daniel's first Halloween and dressed him up as a lion, took him to our loved ones' homes, and filled his little bucket up with treats. Silly, right, considering Daniel was only 6 months old?!

Time has passed since then, and now the parent of two boys, I'm realizing that I want to be less worldly and more Godly. Yet, I'll admit that I thoroughly enjoy costumes and presents. I've asked myself (and many friends in the faith) how to be Christian yet partake in these holidays. I've even felt guilty when I learned that other Christian families have opted out of these traditions altogether because I personally enjoy them.

How can I be Godly in seasons of ungodliness?!

Halloween is filled with spooks, scares, and secular activities that I honestly don't want any part in, but since it is also filled with such sweet innocence and fun, I have searched the scriptures to know my stand on the issue. For instance, Jesus said in John 17, And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they (His words) are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. I am to keep myself and my children from the evil that is in the world.

Is Halloween evil? Not necessarily, but if you spent any time out last night, you were certain to see children younger than ten with blood-covered faces and demon-draped costumes. That, to me, is evil: pure and unnecessary evil. What were those faces saying to my boys? That this world is evil. That even young children are being exposed to things they should never see. That I have a huge responsibility to teach my children be an example, a light, to those around them.

Christmas in no way is evil unless you consider lying evil, and I do. I know we all have to "lie" to our children at times, but blatant untruths that we can avoid should be avoided. This, to me, means that Santa shouldn't be played up as the most important part of Christmas. Why is his face all over the place from November 1st to December 25th?! If I'm not mistaken, the reason "Christmas" was originally celebrated was to honor the birth of Jesus Christ. Whether He was born in December or not, that time of year was set aside to honor and celebrate His miraculous birth. Isn't HE the miracle of Christmas?! Isn't HIS FACE the one we should be looking to during this time of year?! With that in mind, my heart aches for children (and adults) who look forward to Santa's arrival but have no clue about the arrival of the One who came to offer them the gift of salvation.

So, what did we do on Halloween?! Our children dressed up as the cutest Thomas the Tank Engine and Sir Topham Hatt we'd ever seen! We didn't mention trick or treating, and we didn't take them to see anything haunted, though we couldn't avoid the scary things we encountered just going to Mimi's house. We visited our friends and families' homes, and the boys got to hug the necks of those they love. Those they love spoiled them with some of their favorite treats and took pictures of their adorable faces. We were in this world, but definitely not of it.

And, what will we do for Christmas?! Our children will be surrounded by those they love the most. They'll enjoy meals and hugs and hear stories from holidays past. They'll be given things they want and definitely do not need. :) They'll each receive three gifts from Mommy and Daddy as Jesus Himself was presented with three items surrounding the time of His birth. Finally, they'll come home and hear the true story of Christmas under our "Scripture" tree which will be decorated with ornaments that individually represent the life of Jesus.

I know it's hard to be different when this world wants us to "fit in," but I'm striving to be a parent that is different because Jesus Christ calls me to be peculiar and set apart. While I realize some choose to distance themselves from these holidays and events, we've taken the stand for Christ and decided to be Christians amidst (and despite) the things of this world.

Samuel was Sir Topham Hatt this year.

Running to show Mrs. Becky from MDO

his Thomas bucket at Temple's Trunk or Treats.

Getting a treat from Mrs. Becky. :)

Excited to see his treats!

Daniel was Thomas the Tank Engine.

Visiting Pop on Halloween

The only picture of both boys dressed up.

Eating treats with his friend, James Luke,

at the Carver's house.

30 Months Old...

2011-10-26T15:08:00.000-05:00

That makes Daniel sound super old. However, he's still a sweet, crazy boy who is very young at heart!

In his 30th Month, Daniel:

Weighed 33 pounds.

Wore sizes 2T and 3T in clothes.

Wore a size 8 1/2 in shoes.

Still in size 4 diapers.

Loved to hug his baby brother.

Liked to annoy his baby brother.

Became more and more dramatic.

Was very, very bossy.

Had to be reminded of his manners.
Colored all over the carpet.
Mommy was super thankful for her carpet cleaner!

Peed in the potty for the first time!

Liked candy and prizes.
Really enjoyed pumpkins. :)
Took a trip to Louisville, KY.
Daddy preached a week long revival there.
Had an adventurous and active week.
Went to the awesome Louisville Zoo.
Loved the elephants and baby polar bear.
Fell out of the full-size bed in our KY "apartment".

Some of Daniel's Popular Phrases:

Now.
I want that.
Gimme that.
I hit you.
I love you, Mommy.
I get you.
Wanna go outside and slide.
Take a bath now.
I hiding.
I stay here by myself.
That was funny.
Daddy, I did it by myself!

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:

Food(s): Spaghetti and Pizza

Toy(s): Puzzles

Show(s): Curious George, Word World

Movie(s): Spiderman, The Incredibles

Snack(s): Gummy Snacks, Bananas, Apples

Song(s): I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy

Color(s): Red and Blue

Thing to Do: Take Bubble Baths

People: Bekah and Natalie

Some of His 30th Month Highlights:

Guilty.

Someone used his crayons all over the carpet.

Meeting Mommy's best friend, Amanda,

for the first time!

Playing on the "trampoline" in the nursery

at church with good friends.

Holding hands with brother before bed in KY.

His treat for being good on the drive home

from KY to TN with Mommy.

Going back to KY to see Daddy.

On the rhino at the Louisville Zoo.

Walking through the Toy Story section

at the Louisville Zoo.

Doesn't Daniel make a great "Sarge"?!

Looking at the lions with Dad.

Face to face with a gorilla.

That glass, as thick as it was, made Mommy

a nervous wreck.

This one's for you, Aunt Ca.

In the Willy Wonka section of the zoo.

Leaving the Zoo.

Daddy earned some "cool points"

for setting the tent up in the house.

Being "horsey" for Samuel.

Playing with cousin, Natalie, at church.

Taking a nap in the swings in our backyard.

16 Has Never Been So Sweet!

2011-09-20T11:54:00.002-05:00

In His 16th Month, Samuel:
Still weighed 22 lbs.
Was 30.5 inches tall.
Walked full time... still wobbly.
Wore size 12 month clothes. STILL.
Wore a size 5 or 5 1/2 extra wide in shoes.
In size 4 diapers.
Had really sensitive skin.
Disliked heat and outdoors.
Was extremely shy.
Preferred his Mom and Dad over anybody.
Was not a fan of anyone.
Liked to be left alone.
Hated being pushed or bothered.
Was climbing on everything!
Loved Mommy's jewelry.
Like pretending to drive.
Was walking all over the place.
Often blew kisses.
Waved bye-bye a lot!
Loved to be going.
Always was pretending to pray.
Learned that Aunt Ca got married!
Became pretty smitten with Uncle Dustin.

Some of Samuel's Firsts Happened this Month:

Drank from a straw
Told us he had pee-peed in his diaper
Ate his first Oreo.

Favorite Things:
Food(s): sweets, cake
Toy(s): balls, books, red car, and Elmo
Show(s): Sesame Street
Movie(s): Elmo in Grouchland, Cars
Snack: goldfish, raisins, chips
Song: I'm a Little Teapot
Words He was Saying: hi. ball. bye-bye. night. daddy. momma. cup. caw (car). go. mik (milk). Pa (grandpa). Ca (aunt jessica). Mimi. hun-gee (hungry). Dan-yule (Daniel). Amen. tank you. peez (please).
Thing to Do: play alone, watch movies, ride in the red cozy coupe
People: Daddy and Mommy

Some Other 16th Month Highlights:

Climbing the couch with Daniel

Taking a bath with Brother

Sweet, smiling Samuel

Riding in his red car

Flying in the dark

Getting hugged (or choked) by Daniel

How he got this bag of chips, I'll never know!

After his first Oreo

Drinking milkshake from a straw

Reading with Pop

"Driving" Pa's farm truck

"Praying" before desert

29 Months Old!

2011-09-20T09:34:00.003-05:00

In His 289h Month, Daniel:Weighed 31 lbs.
Wore 2T clothes.
Wore a size 8 or 8 1/2 in shoes.
Still in size 4 diapers...
Liked to wear sunglasses.
Enjoyed taking pictures.
Loved driving his tractor.
Especially if Samuel would ride in the back!
Hated for his hands to be dirty.
Loved to pretend to drive cars and trucks.
Was big on dressing himself.
Would NOT pee in the potty.
Liked being naked.
Was extremely bossy and demanding.
Never took naps unless he FELL OUT.
Celebrated his Aunt Jessica's wedding!
Loved his Uncle Dustin.
Asked for Dustin ALL.THE.TIME.
Loved to be playing outside.

Was often found:

lining up his trains and cars
sneaking under the beds
making messes
taking his diaper off
pointing and bossing
standing/playing naked
throwing fits
begging to watch movies
avoiding naps and sleep
saying his Bible verse, Be kind and loving to each other.

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:
Food(s): Whatever he could sneak for himself!
Toy(s): Thomas trains
Show(s): The Backyardigans, Dora, and VeggieTales
Movie(s): The Backyardigans' Mission to Mars
Snack(s): gummy snacks
Song(s): Thomas theme song (new rap version)
Color(s): Blue and Green
Thing to Do: Jumping, Running, Laughing
People: Mimi, Natalie, Ca, Bekah, Pa, and Pop

Popular Phrases and Words of the Month:

No, it's MINE!
Go to Mimi's house.
Let's go!
I need you.
It funny.
Bye, I love you.
Look at me!

Other Big Things from Daniel's 29th Month:

Making some very long train lines in the living room

Driving in the sun room

Getting in a naked nap

Driving Mister Samuel around the backyard

Loved visits from Pop

Playing with Pa in his farm truck

Noticing his hands had gotten dirty in Pa's truck

Eating his favorite thing at Addy's 3rd birthday party

Or Calls Me Home...

2011-09-04T02:14:00.001-05:00

As I sit quietly on the living room couch, with our two babies tucked in tight and my husband enjoying the middle of the bed, I realize how blessed I am. Just today, I heard "I love you" three times in a row from my two-year-old and had dinner with some very dear friends, but also occuring today was a dear man of the faith being laid to rest. While I know he is rejoicing this very second upon such sights I cannot fathom, I cannot help but wonder what his sweet wife is feeling without him.

His passing (and many others recently) has me fearful over losing those I love. The adversary seems to find ways to make me question God's sovereignty, and I tend to get weak when he tugs at my heart. Just last night, I dreamed that I woke up without Daniel, and tonight as Brian and I talked about our day, I got teary-eyed when we discussed what we'd do without the other. He told me I would be fine, but I couldn't imagine it...

While I know that God is in complete control, I can't help but be human and fear what is to come. I know there will be loss. I realize there is a chance I'll out live our children. I understand that our children already only have one set of grandparents. I am very aware that I'm not guaranteed tomorrow. What I have is now. This very moment.

In this very moment, I have all I never pictured I would. I have the most amazing husband who loves me for me. He accepts me just as I am and loves me with his words. I have two beautiful boys who literally make my heart joyous at the thought of them. Their laughter and love make me want to be a better person for their sake. I have a heavenly Father who lavishes His love on me on a constant basis. He saved me from my sins when I cried out to Him as a 10-year-old girl. I have more than I need here in our home. I'm spoiled rotten with material things. I have eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart that is open to love.

Tomorrow is another day, and while God very well may choose to change all I've been given, I am going to rest in the One who holds the world in the palm of His hand. I'm going to sleep peacefully, knowing that if I do not wake, He has prepared for me a home in heaven. If I lose everyone I love, I still have Christ. He will always be my Comforter, my all in all. In Him, I can truly live without the fear of death. May we all see our blessings in life and use them for His glory until He comes back or calls me home.

In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm

What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless Babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save

Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious day
Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man
Could ever pluck me from His hand
Til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I stand

Daniel-isms

2011-08-29T00:49:00.001-05:00

Okay, life with a two-year-old is tough at times... You know with the temper tantrums and potty training and the rough hits and determination of an ox?! Well, maybe that's just our two-year-old, and he is teaching us all about the "terrible twos." However, there are times when this kid literally makes us laugh so hard and love so much that we forget how awful the moments before actually were.

Case(s) and point(s):

While riding in his car seat on the way home from church, Daniel kept dropping his sippy cup onto the floor. We'd bend back, pick it up, and give it to him for him to repeat the process. He was thoroughly amused; we weren't as much. In between tosses, he really was thirsty and was gulping down fruit punch. So, it came as no surprise when I heard the first hiccup... and another... then the next... and on and on until Daniel became quite frustrated with them. He clearly stated, "Mommy, I chokin'." I said, "No, you're not, honey; you've got hiccups." To which he replied, "Mommy, I chokin'." As the hiccups got stronger, his patience was thinning, and he was very upset and yelled, "Mommy, no hiccup. I CHOKIN'!"
Daniel's story-telling skills are really picking up as of lately. Why, just Tuesday while the boys were at Mother's Day Out, and Samuel took a pretty rough fall. How do I know this? Well, it's a whopping five days later, and upon seeing any one he knows, Daniel STILL begins with this, "Uh, Samuel fall down on the ground at school, and....." I promise, he has told that same "story" over a hundred times in five days, and it seems brand new to him every single time. And for the record, Samuel didn't cry when he fell at school; in fact, he doesn't even have a scratch!
Daniel has become quite the boss around here. Or at least he believes he has. We hear these a lot: "Be quiet, Mommy." "Daddy, stop it." "Watch Thomas, Mommy." "Samuel, be quiet. Stop it. Shhhh."
Daniel speaks in first person right now. It is hard to take him seriously when he talks as if he's someone else because it is SO hilarious. Last night as we ate dinner at Chick fil A, the "carnival" was in town right beside the parking lot. Daniel was very intrigued by the ferris wheel and its amazing lights. He watched from the restaurant doors, saying, "Daniel ride that. Daniel sit on it. Daniel go to it. Daniel want to ride it now."
Daniel is beginning to potty train. While we haven't yet forced it, he has just started showing interest and going on his own... in the potty... without help from any one. Anyway, we've tried to get Daniel excited about the process with "big boy" underwear and Pull-ups, but let's face it, they equal big messes that make HIM laugh so we've opted for the cheap brand of diapers for him until we move on... Let's just say, they do not work. Just Tuesday night as we were out shoppng as a family, Daniel rode on my back in the Beco, and discovering some awesome clearance buys in the kids' section, I suddenly felt moisture running down my back. He had peed right through those Pull-ups! As I took Daniel to clean up the mess, I kept asking him, "Where does pee go? Why is Mommy wet?" He answered, "In the potty. Not Mommy." Here I was in a public place with my child's pee ALL DOWN MY BACK and PANTS. Worse part, I didn't have any extra clothes for Daniel OR myself, so with a pantless Daniel strapped again onto my wet back, he and I finished shopping and headed to the checkout!
HOWEVER, this was not our only encounter with pee this week. Tonight at church during singing practice, Daniel sat cheerfully on Daddy's lap while we sang. It wasn't very long into the service when Brian looked over at me with the deer in headlights look... He mouthed, "He's peeing on me!" I thought he was kidding, that is, until I noticed Brian's suit's pant leg was soaking wet. It looked as though it was BRIAN who'd had the accident. He sat there with that look on his face for what seemed like hours, as he tried to figure out what to do next. Daniel hadn't moved. He was just fine now that he'd released that burden. :) I too hadn't moved. I was laughing so hard I didn't think to move or help. When I came around to noticing Brian needed my help, I picked up Daniel and headed to the nursery. Every step of the way, Daniel reminded me, "I pee on Daddy." Brian thankfully had an extra set of clothes in the car (which, by the way, was a t-shirt, khaki shorts, and Crocs) but when we got to the car, Daniel made certain we hadn't forgotten what had happened in church, laughing and saying, "Daddy, I pee-pee. I pee on Daddy."

15 Months and Big Things Happen

2011-08-26T01:01:00.001-05:00

In His 15th Month, Samuel:
Weighed 22 lbs. (25th percentile)
Was 30.5 inches tall. (25th percentile)
Walked full time... No more crawling.
Wore size 12 clothes.
Wore a size 5 extra wide in shoes.
In size 4 diapers.
Had really sensitive skin.
Disliked heat and outdoors.
Got his 15 month shots.
Visited Dyersburg and his family for the first time.
Took a long 8 hour road trip to Missouri!
Got to see his church buddy, Lincoln.
Loved playing with Lincoln.
Ate his first Lambert's roll!
Went to Silver Dollar City.
Hated it.
Met the Backyardigans!
Rode the Carousel and enjoyed it!
Really liked Elmo and Timmy (some little lamb show).
Started giving kisses. Awww.
Was beginning to get fairly vocal.
Threw fits when he didn't get his way.
Was an amazing eater!
Began Mother's Day Out.
Was the youngest in his class!
Didn't cry when Mommy dropped him off!
Was a great sleeper!
Began climbing. Yikes.
Started hitting Daniel back!
Loved. his. Daddy. so. much.

Some of Samuel's Firsts Happened this Month:

Ate with a spoon
Had his first day of Mother's Day Out
Got his first busted lip
First time we ever saw blood
First ride ever ridden (Carousel)

Favorite Things:Food(s): watermelon, peaches
Toy(s): balls, train tracks, elmo
Show(s): Sesame Street, Timmy Time
Movie(s): Elmo in Grouchland
Snack: goldfish, applesauce in a pouch
Song: I'm a Little Teapot and Jesus Loves Me, Me, Me
Words He was Saying: hi. ball. bye-bye. night. daddy. momma. cup. caw (car). go. mik (milk). Pa (grandpa). Ca (aunt jessica). Mimi.
Thing to Do: be held, play alone, watch movies, ride in the red cozy coupe.
People: Daddy!

Some Other 15th Month Highlights:

Playing with Buddy at Aunt Dina's house

Getting love from Aunt Pattie

First trip to McAllister's for sweet tea!

Eating the throwed rolls with Lincoln

at Lambert's

Pointing at the deer/elk (?) at the largest

Bass Pro Shop in the U.S.

Riding the shuttle with Daddy

to Silver Dollar City

Rosy, hot cheeks at Silver Dollar City

Unimpressed with the Backyardigans

His favorite spot at SDC...

The ball area.

Eating cookies and saying bye to his buddy, Lincoln.

Eating rolls and looking like Mommy

at our 2nd Lamberts' stop (on the trip)

Playing with big brother is

beginning to be fun.

At his friend, Seth's first birthday party!

His first busted, bloody lips.

His very first MDO bag!

First day of Mother's Day Out...

Daniel was telling Samuel to, "Cheese!"

Looking like a really big, little boy at MDO.

Did You Say 28?

2011-08-26T00:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's right. Our delightful boy has just recently turned 28 whopping months old. That cannot be accurate, but honestly, it is evident with all he's been into as of late!

In His 28th Month, Daniel:
Weighed 30+ lbs.
Wore 2T clothes.
Wore a size 8 in shoes.
Made an 8 hour trip to Missouri!
Went to Silver Dollar City.
Was tall enough to ride the kiddie rides!
Loved the frog jump ride and the carousel.
Met the Backyardigans there! :)
Visited the largest Bass Pro Shop in the US.
Slept the whole time we were there.
Still in size 4 diapers...
Made his first successful potty trip!
ON HIS OWN. (Friday, August 19th)
Then made 3 more.
Still doesn't understand PEE-ing in the potty.
Has only done that once at church by himself.
He snuck into the bathroom,
and did his business.
Started Mother's Day Out (year 2).
Miss Brooke was his teacher.
He called her "Brooke."
Could count 1-5.
Sang all of the time.
Was very bossy.
Spankings and timeouts seemed to work.
Would not take naps.
Loved baths and playing outside.
Never met a stranger.
Gave lots of hugs and kisses.
Told his Mommy he loved her (August 12th)!
Spent lots of time with friends!
Went to the library with Cole.
Celebrated Seth's 1st birthday!
Played at Monkey Joe's with Bekah and the Harris girls!

Was often found:

playing with trains and cars
sneaking into the cabinets
making messes
standing/playing naked
stealing gum from his mom and dad
taking coins and hiding them in his mouth
throwing fits
begging to watch movies
avoiding naps and sleep
saying his Bible verse, Rejoice in the Lord.

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:
Food(s): mandarin oranges, ice cream
Toy(s): Thomas trains
Show(s): The Backyardigans, Dora, and VeggieTales
Movie(s): Thomas: Hero of the Rails
Snack(s): yogurt covered raisins, gummy snacks
Song(s): Rejoice in the Lord Always, Thomas theme song, Jesus Loves Me
Color(s): Blue
Thing to Do: Jumping, Running, Laughing
People: Mimi, Natalie, Ca, Bekah, Pa, and Pop

Popular Phrases and Words of the Month:

Stop it, Samuel.
Samuel, wake up!
No, it's MINE!
This way. (He literally can give directions.)
Awesome. Purrfect! Amazing! (when he's super excited)
Goodness gracious!
I want more.
I your son, Daddy.
Mommy, I ready to go. Ready to go to school!
I have fun.
I heavy. Mommy heavy. Daddy's heavy!
Samuel fell down on the ground at school... (this happened on their 3rd day of Mother's Day Out, and Daniel told everybody he saw for 3 days this exact sentence. Miss Brooke said that Samuel didn't even cry, but it must've been very traumatic for Daniel!)

Other Big Things from Daniel's 28th Month:

Was super excited over ice cream cones!

Loved to love on his little brother.

Watching t.v.!

Riding the motorcycle with two sweet girls!

At the library with his new friend, Cole!

Standing on his first REAL train track...

in Dyersburg, TN.

Getting kisses from Aunt Dina and Aunt Pattie!

Riding the shuttle to Silver Dollar City...

and loving it!

Meeting the Backyardigans!

Seeing the Silver Dollar City train.

Having a typical, terrible two tantrum with his buddy, Mike.

Eating those yummy throwed rolls

at Lambert's in Sikeston!

Getting all dressed up in Daddy's shoes.

Riding with brother!

Swinging with Bekah

at Seth's 1st Birthday Party

So stinkin' sweet.

Best buddies right here, Bekah and Daniel.

Stealing a taste of the 1st birthday boy's cake.

Talking with the birthday boy's aunt Tanya

via Skype at the party.

He is so friendly!

Their first school picture together.

Daniel was miserable because,

"I ready to go, Mom!"

Look who got his clothes off,

found himself some markers and paper,

and went to town!

Be Patient

2011-08-18T01:53:00.002-05:00

We are currently teaching Daniel what it means to be patient.

When he's screaming for his juice,
I will say, "What do you have to be?"
Daniel will say, "Patient."

When he's yelling he's ready to go,
I will say, "What do you need to be?"
Daniel will agree, "Patient."

When he's ready "right now" to get
out of his car seat, I must say,
"What should you be?"
Daniel will admit, "Patient."

When I ask him what that means, Daniel always answers, "Wait." :)

In the past few days, I have been explaining what it means to be patient. I feel definitions help us all understand things better! Despite my explanations, I often have to remind Daniel that patient means to wait... calmly. gladly. willingly. I seriously say these words and phrases to my two-year-old as if he understands, and while he can repeat them perfectly, I'm learning that I too must be patient and wait.

When I'm frustrated with toddler tantrums,
"What do I have to be?"
God replys, "Patient."

When I want him out of diapers (like yesterday),
"What should I be?"
God tells me, "Patient."

When he's being quite demanding,
"How should I react?"
God whispers, "Patiently."

When he's made another mess,
"What do I need to be?"
God says, "Patient."

When I'm ready to move past this stage,
God explains, "Be patient."

I find myself wishing his days away, ready for him to grow up and be a big kid, but there are days when I realize that this is my time to cherish Daniel for all he is. Every energetic, strong-willed, defiant, confident, intelligent, sweet way within him is mine to cherish... And while I hurry life along, God constantly is reminding me what being patient really means. It means to wait... calmly. gladly. willingly.

I don't ever want to forget these precious days, moments, and lessons. Through this adorable toddler, I am learning more than I ever have in life. I, for one, am enjoying patience.

Mother's First Day Out

2011-08-18T01:25:00.001-05:00

The boys' first day of Mother's Day Out has come and gone, and tomorrow they'll embark on their second day. My prayer has been that this will not only relieve me but help each of them to grow. I feared that Samuel would cry hysterically and hang onto my shirt with every ounce of being within him, and I worried that Daniel would be rough on the other children and be his typical, energetic, can't-slow-down self.

While I'm certain the latter took place, I can assure myself that Day 1 was better than even I expected. The boys slept well Monday night; in fact, I had to WAKE Daniel up to get ready just in time. Samuel woke just like always, cheerful and happy to start the day. While I'm not sure he was ready for what he had coming, he grinned with his big, busted lips (he, of course, had to have his first major fall the night before).

(Samuel on the night before his first day of MDO.)

I had their bags packed and ready; I should say that I had their bags, lunchboxes, and nap mats perfectly monogrammed and embroidered (we all know me that well).

Lunchbox Tags I made for each boy!

Their bags and mats

Daniel's things (lunchbox, cups, and mat) are Cars themed.

Samuel's things are all his buddy, Elmo.

It really wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be getting out the door... until I realized we must have pictures!

Samuel cannot be old enough to attend MDO.

He just CANNOT.

While this is blurry, Daniel was so ready to get out the door.

He knew he was going to school.

He kept saying, "School. Let's go, Mommy."

Realizing I really wanted a picture of the two of them,

Daniel grabbed Samuel's face and kept repeating,

"Say cheese, Samuel."

We made the two minute drive to the church where MDO is held, and I kept telling the boys how much fun they would have. I just knew they'd begin crying as soon as I walked them to their classroom, but much to my surprise, Daniel let go of my hand and walked confidently into his room. He didn't cry or seem upset at all... Maybe because two of his buddies were crying and he was patting them and worrying over them, saying, "You okay, buddy?!"

Samuel had a tight grip on my shirt. I feared the worst at this point, but that's when their sweet teacher pulled out goldfish and vanilla wafers. Miss Brooke is genius in my book already, simply for this random act! Samuel mustered up some confidence and walked right over to the table for his own snack. I think I was actually upset that he wasn't upset!

Eating the first snack of the morning...

Okay, is this not so sweet?!

My boys actually sat together. :)

I left with such peace. Do you know how good that was?! To know that my children were in good hands and they were happy... Nothing makes a mother feel better than that!

So, I guess you're wondering what I did with my day?!

I worked on and finished these for my dear friend. I know I was supposed to be OUT, but honestly, it was refreshing to just sit quietly IN.

Sweet

2011-08-10T01:10:00.001-05:00

You want to know what is super sweet?

Daniel.

He really is.

Let me explain...

As of late, Daniel becomes very concerned the very second Samuel wakes from his naps. He announces, "Mommy, Samuel awake. He's cryin'." He will say this over and over until I follow him into the boys' room to get Samuel from his crib. Sweet, right?!

Daniel's vocabulary is booming. Some of the sweetest things he says right now are: "I love you." (he still hasn't told Mommy he loves her.) "I sorry, Mommy." "Help me, please." The lines, "Jesus loves me this I know for the BI-ble tells me so." Oh, and he sings, "Joy, Joy, Where?!," from I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, where?! song. I'm telling you, these are so sweet!

Tonight, on our way home from revival, I suggested that Brian roll down the windows in the car to make some "white noise" to ease a very fussy Samuel. Moments later, Samuel was silent, and Daniel was as well. I turned to find Daniel with his hand blowing in the wind and a huge grin across his sweet face. He was so excited!

But, honestly, the sweetest thing about Daniel is his love of physical touch. When we lay him in his bed at night, he wants one of us to stay right beside his bed, and then he'll stick his arm through the toddler bed railing to hold our hands. When he has done something by himself (like build a mega block tower or connected every single one of his train tracks together), Daniel will grab my hand, lead me to his creation, stand beside me, hand in hand, and very proudly point. He blows kisses to whoever we are leaving. He hugs his brother and tickles him endlessly. AND, just tonight, as he was falling asleep, rubbed my hair until he couldn't stay awake any longer...

But I'll be blunt here and tell you that Daniel isn't always sweet. He just might be the most challenging child I've ever faced in my life. In fact, he has learned how to push my buttons like no one else and has even caused me to lose my temper like I will never admit. I find myself angrier than I care to get and more impatient with each passing hitting or pushing incident, terrible two tantrum, and disobedient move he makes. He tends to bring out my worst qualities on most days.

However, I am reminded constantly, through this little child, that I have been given the awesome opportunity from God to raise him. I honestly believe, on some days, he is raising me. He is teaching me to be calmer and less temperamental. He shows me that laughter is better than anger, and messes only last for a short while. One day, I'll miss his tantrums and hearing him say, "I sorry, Mommy," after he's had a timeout. I am learning that I cannot grow as a parent OR a person without these teachable moments from my child. The negative habits and dramatic personality I see in Daniel are ones I've passed down to him, and I am being forced to change so that he will see more of Christ and less of me.

There isn't anything sweet about me. Except for this great, big fact... God is sweet on me (and you). He is incredibly good to me. He's given me a heart that longs for Him, and because of that, I am constantly being molded to look more like Christ. Why is this so important? Well, there is a little set of eyes that imitates most everything he sees his Mommy do, and God knows that if He can use Mommy to win this little boy to Him, then it will all be worth it. Daniel's heart could one day love like Christ, and hopefully, I can be what God used to get him to that point.

I imagine years from now I'll look back on these days and will have forgotten the frustrating times. I'll be able to see past all the things that were so difficult about raising Daniel. I'll realize that it was God's way of raising me to look more like His Son. I'll understand that without the child-rearing pains, there would be no gains. Most importantly, I hope to remember how sweet it was to be Daniel's Mommy and how deeply I was/am loved by the King.

Samuel's 14th Month

2011-07-28T00:12:00.000-05:00

In His 14th Month, Samuel:
Weighed 24ish lbs.
Wore a size 4 extra wide in shoes.
5 wides would work.
Went back to 12 month clothes.
His belly is thinning up!
His legs and cheeks are not... :)
I love how chubby he is!
Was SUPER short.
Wore size 4 in diapers.
Balls were his favorite toy.
Said uh-oh, da-da, ball, hi, ma-ma, and wow.
Hated play places.
Started throwing fits. I have video to prove it!
Liked opening and closing doors, gates, etc.
Was very contemplative.
Got another haircut or two.
Mommy tried and ruined it.
Aunt Ca had to fix it!
Was still a wonderful sleeper.
Slept from 8:15 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. every night.
Went to Kobe Steakhouse for a big birthday celebration!
Walked non-stop.
Was very tender-hearted.
Was easily disciplined.
We said no. He listened.
We said stop. He stopped.
Liked to color.
Loved to hug.
LOVED to eat. He cherished every bite!
Hated loud noises: screaming, fireworks, preachers, etc.

Some of Samuel's Favorite Things:
Food(s):    watermelon. hands down.
Toy(s):    balls. hands down.
Show(s): Sesame Street
Movie(s):    Elmo and The Backyardigans
Snack:    Fruit Loops, gummies, chips
Song: I'm a Little Teapot and Jesus Loves Me, Me, Me
Saying(s): Wow. Hi. Whoa!
Thing to Do:   Stealing Daniel's Toys, Being Held
People: MOMMY - hands down!

Some Other 14 Month Highlights:

The sweetest grin ever made!

Looking more like his Mommy...

Enjoying the movie and some snacks :)

Getting some love from big brother

Saying, "Ball," while holding a bobber.

Watching the downtown fireworks on the 4th.

He hated them! Notice his bewildered face.

The best thing Daddy's ever brought home!

Giving his buddy, Seth, some love at Monkey Joe's.

Meeting another preacher's kid!

Here are Samuel and Jacob at the Victory Youth Weekend.

Eating watermelon with Pop

That's a GOOD bite, Pop.

The way Samuel USUALLY ended up in bed...

LOL!

Daniel is 27 Months Old

2011-07-27T23:48:00.002-05:00

In his 27th month, Daniel:
Became quite bossy.
Liked helping with his brother.
Told us when he was "stinky."
Weighed 30 lbs.
Wore a size 8 shoe.
Wore size 2T in clothes.
Still in size 4 diapers.
Liked water... mostly just to play in.
Took lots of baths.
Did a lot of jumping.
Was very demanding and dramatic.
Could tell you how old he was.
Could tell you how old Samuel was.
No longer took naps.
Continued to sleep walk.
Timeouts stopped working.
Getting spankings did.
Would tell us what he did wrong.
If he knew he'd done something wrong,
he'd immediately say, "Corner."
Could remember everything.

Was often found:

on the counter tops
filling Daddy's radio with salt
emptying cereal and chips on the floor
making messes
standing naked
laughing out loud
tickling his brother
trying to avoid cleaning up
giving hugs and kisses
using good manners
begging to watch movies

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:
Food(s):    watermelon, peaches, hot dogs
Toy(s):    cars, trains, bubbles
Show(s): The Backyardigans and VeggieTales
Movie(s):   The Backyardigans Mission to Mars, Ratatouille
Snack(s):    yogurt covered raisins, gummy snacks
Song(s):    Anything by Veggie Tales, Stand Up for Jesus
Color(s): Yellow, Green, Blue, and Red (and he officially recognizes these)
Thing to Do: WATER, Jumping, Being Naked
People:   James, Gavin, Bekah, and Nita (these are the people he asked for)

Popular Phrases and Words of the Month:

Woo, it's hot in here!
Quiet, Samuel. (when Samuel's crying)
What are you doing? Working? Shopping?
Where'd Daddy go?
Here it comes! (when movies came on)
No, it's MINE!
2, 4, 6! (counted by twos!)
Lub you. (said it to Grandpa first!, then Mimi)
I like it! I lub it!
Kitchen? (if he couldn't find some one or thing)
Gross. Yuck.
Awesome. Purrfect! Amazing! (when he's super excited)
Goodness gracious (yes, he really says this!)
Good job! (when he knows you've done something good)

Other big things from Daniel's 27th month:

Riding his first pony with his brother

Destroying Mommy's hair

Playing with Mommy in the floor

Watching his very first drive-in movie, Cars 2

Climbing gates just to climb counter tops just to get naked and take a bath in the sink

Who doesn't bake in the nude?!

One very happy boy in the bathtub!

Watching fireworks with Pa in White House

His very first WASHABLE tattoo, James the Tank Engine

He can escape from anything!

Getting out of his car seat while driving home.

The best discounted buy ever!

Daddy brought home a train table from ESSEX!

Giving his best girl, Bekah, a hug after one of our first trips to Monkey Joe's.

It's fun seeing friends like Kam at church!

Learning how to play frisbee with Mrs. April at the Victory Youth Weekend.

Blowing bubbles with Mrs. April!

Meeting Landon for the first time!

Cannot wait to see him at church!

Behind LOCKED Doors...

2011-07-27T13:48:00.001-05:00

It has got to be every mothers' fear to be separated from her children. There is just something about not knowing where they are or what they are doing when we cannot see their sweet faces. My heart aches for parents whose children are missing or have gone on to be with Jesus long before it was their time. With that being said, I realize that my short story of the day seems incomparible to those who've endured much more difficult circumstances. However, the fear that the adversary would have us all encounter came all to quickly to me today.
Without thinking anything of it, I stepped out in the garage this afternoon to grab a pack of diaper wipes off the shelf and to get each boys' riding toy (On these hot days, I dare not take the boys out in the heat!). I hadn't made it to the shelf when I realized a cup must have fallen from the van and had created a very large ant mound in the garage! I have a thing with ants, meaning I literally despise them, but they keep finding their way into my house. Nevertheless, I ran back into the house to grab our ever-present-help-in-times-of-need ant spray, walked back out to the garage, and quietly closed the door behind me.

I sprayed with such determination, I was almost surprised that neither of the boys had tried to open the door and get to me. When I'd finished the job, I got the wipes and the toys, and headed back to the door. It was at that point, I realized I was in a mess.

There I was, in the dead of summer, locked inside the garage, outside of my house, with my two children inside. I figured that maybe Samuel had grabbed the lock accidentally and did it, because if it'd been Daniel, he'd been screaming, "Yay, I did it!" However, what blessed my heart (despite being scared to death) was the fact that Daniel did begin screaming soon thereafter. He was yelling, "Mommy, where are you? I skeered." He was banging on the door trying to get himself to me.

I was honestly in panic mode trying to figure out how I was going to get back in the house! At the time, I didn't realize how easily that could have taken place, but it was hot and I couldn't see my boys! I slowly told Daniel what to do. I didn't think there'd be any way in the world my 2-year-old would listen to directions, but he did what he had to do. He did exactly as I told him. Within minutes, I was in the foyer, loving on Daniel.

Can you imagine how the Father feels to be separated from HIS children? There are so many times I find myself way too far away from His presence, and I wonder how to get closer to Him. It's not that difficult because God never is far away from us. He will never leave us if we are saved by His grace. However, our separation from Him must hurt God so deeply. God's doors are open... Do not lock yourself out.

Before I Forget...

2011-07-22T15:21:00.001-05:00

Samuel:

says these words so clearly: bye-bye, ball, da-da, ma-ma, and hi.
walks all over the house.
will be 14 months old tomorrow. :(
loves watermelon. (He just may be Watermelon Belly #2 - Watermelon Belly was the nickname my Daddy gave me as a child.)
has got quite a temper.
throws his food on the floor when he is finished.
likes the yogurt part of yogurt-covered raisins. He spits the raisins out!

Daniel:

is nosey.
loves raisins and teddy grahams.
likes pancakes and eggs.
climbs water bottles and chairs to get up to A-N-Y-T-H-I-N-G.
was 27 months old two days ago. :(
still will not say he loves me.
sleepwalks. Oh yes, he does.
sleeps terribly.
loves markers. Specifically, writing on himself with them.
has the worst temper ever.
sings words to tons of songs.
likes the Backyardigans, Thomas, and Cars 2 right now. OH, and Buzz and Woody.

Arms Wide Open

2011-07-19T15:12:00.000-05:00

As I sat at my desk this morning, I overheard two little playful brothers laughing hysterically at one another. My initial reaction was to wonder what the older of the two had done in order for the younger brother to laugh. I'm just being honest.

What surprised me was what I found when I quietly looked around the corner of my "office" door: two little boys, with two completely different temperaments, sitting in the living room floor with their sweet arms wrapped around one another. I almost choked on my own tears within that quick moment.

I have been overwhelmingly wrapped up in God's love over the past few days. He continually shows me how much He loves me despite our (obvious) differences. He looks past my faults and failures and loves me just the way He made me.

So, as I watched my children grin at one another this morning, I was reminded yet again of how much God loves me and how He is always waiting for me with His arms wide open...

Things That Make Me...

2011-07-13T23:53:00.001-05:00

Crazy:

Stealing.
Hearing my 2 year old say, "Stop it!"
When both boys are crying.
Diapers that don't hold together too well.
Wet beds.
Poo-poo in the pants and not in the potty.
The fridge's water dispenser.
Children's snacks attracting ants.
Watching Samuel fall while walking.
Having to deal with bibs.

Angry:

Daniel's strange sleeping patterns or lack thereof.
Staying up too late.
Not getting my to-do list accomplished.
Bugs.
Finding ants in the cereal cabinet!
Smooshed grapes.
Spitting children.

Frustrated:

Piles of laundry.
Children that can climb gates.
Spilled juice.
The timeout technique. Enough said.
When Daniel pulls all the dvds out.
When Daniel gets out all of the batteries.
When naptime ends.
Not getting a shower.

Laugh:

When Daniel begs for, "Do-wa." (Dora the Explorer)
When my children make each other CRACK UP!
Finding Daniel naked.
When Daniel kisses Samuel's booty.
Samuel's cheesy grin.
Samuel's excitement over snacks!
Daniel's love of candy!
When Daniel says, "Here it comes!" while waiting for dvds to load.
Children dancing!

Humble:

"Goodnight Mommy."
When I've prayed too long, "AMEN!"
When I tell Daniel, "Stand up," while changing his clothes, he'll say, "FOR JESUS!"
Hugs.
Tight hugs.
Blown kisses.
Holding my hand to, "Show you sumthin."

Blessed:

Blue eyes.
Bug bites.
Dirty clothes.
Trails of toys.
Crumbs for critters.
Meals with my two babies.
Finding deals on things I could never purchase!
Having sweet sisters in the Lord.
Knowing there are two babies waiting for me in Heaven.
Realizing I have a ministry, right here in my home.
Learning that each day is God's gift to me.
Texts from my husband.
Love I don't deserve.
Having a know-so, never-goes salvation.
Family that knows me too well.
Being held in the arms of God. :)

Samuel Turns 13 Months Old

2011-06-29T22:00:00.000-05:00

Nope, I don't believe it either, but it's what the calendar said.
(Samuel turned 13 months on 6/23/11)
In His 13th Month, Samuel:
Weighed 22ish lbs.
Wore a size 3ish wide in shoes.
Skipped 12 month clothes.
Fit into 12-18 month clothes.
The shorts and pants in that size were WAY too long.
Was SUPER short.
Wore sizes 3 and/or 4 in diapers.
Celebrated at his 1st birthday party!
Hated the cake for whatever reason.
Loved Lightning McQueen and balls.
Waved, crawled, stood up, laughed...
Said uh-oh, da-da, ball, hi, ma-ma, and wow.
Made the sippy cup switch.
Still wanted a bottle at night.
Got his 5th and 6th teeth in a day!
Had his first haircut on June 10th by Aunt Ca.
Didn't like it until we fed him Fruit Loops to pass the time.
Walked for the first time on June 20th at 5:30 p.m.!
Mommy was VERY excited!
Her screaming scared Samuel.
Saw his first movie, Cars 2, at the Franklin drive-in.
Enjoyed 3 weeks with his cousin, James Evan.
Made such hilarious faces!

Some of Samuel's Favorite Things:
Food(s):   Chicken Nuggets and Pancakes
Toy(s):   Balls, Lightning McQueen cars, Elmo
Show(s):   Sesame Street
Movie(s):   Elmo in Grouchland and Cars
Snack:   Graham Crackers and Fruit Loops
Song:   I'm a Little Teapot
Saying(s):  Wow. Hi. Whoa!
Color: Green (he says everything is "green")
Thing to Do:   Strolling, Stealing Daniel's Toys, Being Held
People: MOMMY - no one else!

Giving Mommy his infamous grin during his pancake breakfast

With Mommy at his 1st Birthday Party

Not too sure about his birthday cake

Giving Pop a hug

Sliding with Mommy

On the playground with Daddy

Riding in the car with Daniel

Getting his first haircut

Eating his favorite snack at Mimi's house

At his 1st VBS in his VBS shirt :)

With the whole VBS gang!

Riding the pony at Walmart with brother

A group shot without Mommy

At the Franklin drive-in waiting for Cars 2 to begin

Enjoying the movie and the chocolate Teddy Grahams

Standing with Mommy

Showing us how he can walk!

Showing Mommy who the bosses are!

Daniel is a WHOPPING 26 Months Old

2011-06-28T08:57:00.001-05:00

(Daniel turned 26 months on 6/20/11)

In Daniel's 26th month, he:
Weighed 29ish pounds.
Wore size 2T in clothes.
Wore a size 8 shoe.
Wore size 4 diapers.
Would not take naps unless he "fell out."
Helped celebrate his brother's 1st birthday!
Went to his 1st VBS at Murfreesboro MBC.
It was "Onward Christian Soldiers."
Loved to march!
Went to his 2nd VBS at his own church.
Daddy wrote it. :)
It was "Church House Rock!"
Had his cousin, James Evan, at his house.
James was here for 3 weeks.
Daniel LOVED James.
Had a major obsession with pennies and quarters.
Liked drinking (and spilling) from cups.
Loved to Swiffer Vacuum the kitchen.
Was scared of the actual vacuum.
Was a horrible sleeper.
Woke 3-4 times a night.
We think he's actually been sleep-walking.
Yikes!
Talked all the time.
Was super stingy, dramatic, and jealous.
(in no particular order)
Was a big helper.
Got many timeouts for hitting, climbing, and not listening.
Says his own prayers.
Loved to sing songs.
Asked for the "Baseball Bat" movie every single day.
(actually called "Everyone's Hero")
Really liked his neighbor Jaden.
Very visual learner.
Pointed to everything and said, "Mommy, look at ______!"
Would pray before bed.
Said "Amen" at the end of prayers and before he ate.
LOVED pizza!
Does NOT want to potty train.
Tells me he's "pottied" after his diaper is full.
Hopefully, next month, we'll try harder!
Was often found:

in the shower
in the washing machine
in the bathroom sinks, naked, with the water on
climbing on the kitchen table
trying to unlock the doors with keys or coins
climbing gates
pulling keys off the computer keyboards
dancing and singing
making messes with water
giving hugs and kisses
using good manners
turning on every light in the house

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:
Food(s):   Pankcakes and Pizza (VERY healthy)
Toy(s):   Swimming Pool, Sprinkler, Train Tracks
Show(s):   The Backyardigans, VeggieTales, Dinosaur Train
Movie(s):   Everyone's Hero, Spiderman,
Snack(s):   Raisins, Teddy Grahams
Song(s):   ABCs and Rhyming Thingamajig (some song on a goofy kid cd)
Color(s): Green, Blue, and Red (and he officially recognizes these)
Thing to Do:   WATER, Swimming, Sliding, Running, Dancing, Painting, Being Naked
People: Mimi, Jaden, Mommy, James Evan, Daddy, Pa, and Aunt Ca

Popular Phrases and Words of the Month:

I want more. I want water. I want that. I want ______.
Please. Thank you. I sorry.
I wanna color something.
Batteries or something? (if something wasn't working)
Bye bye, church. (this meant he wanted to leave and go to church)
No, it's MINE!
1, 2, 3 (when he was in trouble)
I wanna touch it. (he wanted to touch everything)
I LOVE it! (still hasn't said, "I love you," yet)
I like it!
Help you! (which meant "Help me!"
Kitchen? (if he couldn't find some one or thing)
Ow, ouch! Hurt this!
Um, Mommy, broken. (if a dvd's credits came on or if a song ended)
(after making a mess) Uh, Mommy, mess! Clean up!

Playing Peek-a-boo in the car!

Stomping in the mud in the backyard

Playing in Samuel's birthday gift from Mimi

with his dear friend, Addy

Getting a bite of Samuel's smash cake

Still eating cake after everyone had gone home...

Still playing in Samuel's gift after the party was over...

Thankfully, he kept his clothes ON until they were gone!

Making the best indoors on a rainy day...

and yes, he had taken off his own diaper.

Playing in the big bath tub

Thankfully, Daddy found him once he was halfway up!

Swinging with Daddy on a night out in the neighborhood

Eating his shoes while taking a VBS picture

Because you wouldn't believe it if there weren't pictures...

Daniel climbed into the washing machine ON HIS OWN,

while it was filling with water and soap.

And yes, he was naked.

He had taken off all of his clothes,

climbed on the detergent bottle, and

hoisted himself into the machine!

Can I Get an Amen?

2011-06-27T22:51:00.000-05:00

Not too long before Daniel turned two, I became fairly serious about praying around Daniel. A dear friend of mine suggested the idea of praying over our children, having them hear us pray aloud, and knowing they will imitate how we talk to our Heavenly Father. I had never considered how children learned to pray, but I feel strongly that my kids should learn from me.

While I know that Daniel is only two, he caught on very quickly. He held our hands while we prayed before dinner each night and would announce, "Amen!" when he was ready for Daddy's prayers to come to an end. At night when I would put him into bed, I would pray for all of our family, his friends at Mother's Day Out, our church, and of course, for Daniel and Samuel to sleep well. Daniel would wait until I finished speaking and would proudly exclaim, "Amen!"

I have to be honest, though, because I am not the best at following through. There are days when I would forget to pray over our pancakes, and Daniel would yell, "Amen," in my direction.

Tonight, my precious boy called me out yet again. I was laying beside his bed as he finished his water. It has been one of those days where I found myself completely frustrated that I had accomplished nothing around the house and Daniel had driven me up the wall with removing his clothes and spitting all day long. I decided the silent treatment might help him fall asleep quickly, so I kept my eyes closed as he tossed and turned. I have to admit, I was drifting off when Daniel rolled onto his back and began naming names... "Mommy, Daddy, God, Mimi, James, sleepin', Pa, Pop, Ca, Connor, Bizso (Isabelle), Samuel."

It was long into his "rambling" that I realized what he was doing...

My two-year-old was praying for his family, friends, and rest! It was the sweetest thing I'd ever heard! While I was busy being my ~~I'm too busy to pray tonight because I need to paint and load the dishwasher and empty the diaper genie and wrap a gift and get two hours of sleep before one of the boys wakes up~~ ridiculously selfish self, my toddler (via my Heavenly Father) was teaching his Mommy a lesson.

God has never been too preoccupied for me. He has never once failed to listen to me. He has taken the time to love me with His arms wide open, while there are innumerable times when I toss praying aside. Daniel was not willing to let my lack of communication with the Father stop him from doing so. Oh, how I need to make more time for God! How I need to realize that my children are listening as I pray!

I want to encourage you (and myself) to pray for your children daily... Aloud. Allow your kids to hear you praying for them. I've found myself praying, "Lord, help me have patience with Daniel as he is pouring his orange gatorade all over my floor, Amen!" and my messy boy looked up and stopped. He hears me. One day, Daniel will realize that I turned to my Heavenly Father and prayed to Him, no matter the time of day or the amount of work I needed to get finished. If God is listening, then I should be speaking. If God is speaking, I should be listening...

And tonight, Father, I heard you clearly through Daniel's precious prayers.

Seemingly Summer

2011-06-20T11:21:00.001-05:00

Just as I had anticipated, it is hotter than I can handle this year. 90 degrees and I do not work well together, yet hot weather seems to be Daniel's best friend. He begs to be outside, swinging, and/or swimming. The only danger to this is that we do not have a fence, and Daniel does not remain in one place for too long. Another problem I face is that Samuel is allergic to everything. He breaks out with red spots all over his feet after he's been outdoors for like two seconds. What's a mom to do?!

I'll tell you what I did. I gained myself a teenager. In more ways than one, God opened up some doors for Brian's 15-year-old cousin, James Evan, to spend some of the summer with us. Can I tell you what an adjustment this has been for me? Can I also mention what an incredible blessing it has been as well?! I'm learning so much about what my future holds as a parent of two boys. I see a lot of my "teenage" self in James, and I'm realizing how much my parents loved me.

I have cleaned more than I've ever done. I've done more sweet tea making and gatorade mixing than I care to count. I have held my tongue a lot more than I probably should have. I have hurt more than I ever imagined I could. I have waited by the door and worried more than I want to remember.

Most of all, I have learned to trust my God so much this summer thus far. He's truly in control. He holds time in HIS hands, and sometimes that means that I cannot get done all I've planned to accomplish each day. It means that teething hits in the middle of the night and sleep is hard to come by. It means my hobbies are on the backburner and that my talents are on hold. It means I have a job that the Lord has entrusted me with, and it includes two babies, one teenager, and a good man.

I'm ridiculously blessed this summer despite the heat. I've got it SOOO good.

Things I Don't Want to Forget

2011-06-10T08:13:00.001-05:00

Daniel is currently 25 months old, and his favorite foods are easily suckers, pancakes, green beans, and cake.
His sense of humor is amazing. He laughs hysterically and says, "Funny!" all of the time.
His most commonly used phrase is, "Wow, COOL!"
He loves planes, trains, and fire trucks.
Daniel despises being indoors.
He likes to swing, swim, and jump.
He says, "Yuck!" to every bug he finds.
He likes the new sit and stand stroller we got off of Craigslist.

Samuel is currently 12 months old, and his favorite foods are milk, suckers, bananas, and puffs.
He is super ticklish.
He has 6 teeth!
He loves to throw balls.
He is pulling up and standing on his own.
Samuel is always pushing things with wheels and walking behind them.

Center of Attention

2011-05-31T22:05:00.001-05:00

If there's one thing anyone who knows anything about our 2 year old Daniel, it's that he loves being the center of attention. Since little brother came along, we've noticed a few fits of jealousy on both boys' parts, but without a doubt, Daniel craves attention. He loves having quality time with us, being praised, and pretty much "awes" himself to death anytime he sees a picture of himself.

So, I had NO IDEA this next event would occur. Seriously. I had my camera ready to video tape how amazing he was about to perform at his End-of-the-Year Mother's Day Out Program. Daniel had practiced his five songs for weeks, and Mommy and Daddy were about to lose it if he begged to hear "Bees" or "Shine" one more time! Imagine my surprise when Daniel did this...

Mother, Come Get Me! from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.

Be the center of attention? No, thank you, Daniel said. I'd rather be in my Mommy's arms.

The 1st Birthday Boy...

2011-05-31T21:58:00.000-05:00

Didn't care a single thing about his cake. Seriously.

In fact, Samuel cried until we got him out of his high chair, and that's when Daniel climbed right up.

Samuel Turns 1! from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.

I have no idea why because it was delicious. Want to know how I know? Ask Samuel's big brother... He ate it all. This Mommy didn't try a single bite of it...

Samuel's 1st Birthday Picnic Party Decor

2011-05-31T09:51:00.000-05:00

The table was filled with picnic foods...

and ants.

Here is the "Fruit on a Stick."

Here are the "Chocolate-Covered Ants on a Log."

This is Aunt Ca's FAMOUS "Tortellini Pasta Salad."

"Sweet Summertime Lemonade"

Outside on the patio we had the favors, pictures of Samuel, balloons, tables, etc.

The favors were little green water bottles individualized with each child's initial and included a watermelon Koolaid packet inside!

Samuel's 1st Birthday Shirt

I did it myself! :)

The Birthday Cake

made by my dear friend, Becca.

Samuel's Awesome Smash Cake

Thanks to Becca!

Look at those ants!

Samuel's 1 Year Pictures

The Plasticware

The Set Up

Samuel Levi Turns One

2011-05-23T08:46:00.000-05:00

It's passed way too quickly! In just a year, our sweet miracle has become this amazing curly-haired, blue-eyed cutie. His personality is growing rapidly, and though he is still as calm-mannered as one could imagine, we are beginning to see signs of one determined little boy! What a blessing Samuel has been to us for the past twelve months!

In His 12th Month, Samuel:
Weighed 20 pounds and 10 ounces (20th percentile).
Was 28 inches long (5th percentile).
Wore a size 3 wide in shoes.
Finally fit into 12 month clothes.
Wore sizes 3 and/or 4 in diapers.
Patted Mommy's back whenever she hed him.
Loved balloons, balls, and Elmo.
Said uh-oh, da-da, ball, hi, and wow.
FINALLY began crawling full-time!
Stood on his own for the first time.
Got 3 shots at his 1 year checkup.
Always clapped.
Imitated faces of others - the silly grin was the best!
Liked chicken nuggets and ice cream.
Bread was his favorite food.
Fruit Loops, Puffs, and Crunchies come in a close tie for 2nd.
Was switched to whole milk only.
Still working on making the sippy cup only switch.
Would sit for a LONG time throwing the ball to you.
Liked stealing Daniel's trains from him.
Got pushed quite a few times by his brother.
Shopped on his actual birthday for party supplies.
Was SUPER ticklish!
Got his 3rd and 4th teeth!
Made the "surprised" face all the time!
Went to his friend, Hannah's first birthday party.
Got a new car seat for his birthday from Mommy & Daddy.
Was able to sit forward facing in the car!
Was as sweet as EVER...
Started showing signs of mischieviousness.
Made a mess with baby wipes!
Spent a week in Michigan for revival.

Went to the Detroit Zoo on a HOT day!
His hair finally grew long enough for us to discover...
That it is SUPER curly! :)
Did I mention he made the most HILARIOUS faces?!

Happy as can be at the dinner table!

Showing how he can crawl!

Samuel's "goofy" grin - one of our favorite faces!

Celebrating Hannah's 1st birthday!

The "surprised" face! LOL.

Loving on Elmo

Watching t.v. with his big brother

Taking a bath, about to wash his CURLY HAIR!

Oh, Meijer, how we love your shopping carts!

Now, could you please move your stores to TN?!

Eating snacks at the Atlantic Coney Island in Detroit

What we thought of the Detroit Zoo

Riding together

Eating cookies with icing on his 1st birthday!

Daniel is 25 Months Old

2011-05-20T08:47:00.001-05:00

In Daniel's 25th month, he:
Weighed 28 pounds.
Wore size 2T in clothes.
Wore a size 8 shoe.
Wore size 4 diapers.
Talked up a storm.
Wanted to walk and NOT ride the stroller.
Was rough and tough.
Went through a "biting" stage.
Going through a "hitting" stage.
Laughed at spankings.
Could NOT sit still.
Went to his friend Hannah's 1st birthday party.
Loved to jump and swing.
Was super michievious.
Always made us laugh.
Went to Detroit for a revival.
Visited the HOT and overcrowded Detroit Zoo.
Got a surprise at the Train Toy Store in Detroit.
Went to Canada. It was boring. Got a postcard.
Called Bro. Matthew, "Captain" and "Jack".
Loved Cars.
Tested our patience.
Threw tantrums in restaurants.
Was very loving and gave hugs.
Always said he was sorry and asked for help.
Knew to say "please" if he wanted something.
Could out-smart ANY child-proofing technique.
Liked climbing stairs.
Played "boo" all of the time!
Finished his first year of Mother's Day Out!
Hated performing in front of the crowd.
Was often found:

taking off his clothes
climbing the childproof gates
pulling toilet paper off the roll in small pieces
trying to unlock the doors
playing in the trash
pulling out Mommy's pots and pans
reading to his brother
giving hugs and kisses
tickling others
using good manners

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:Food(s): Cake
Toy(s): Swingset, Tractors, Trains
Show(s): Thomas, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Movie(s): Thomas, Cars, Chicken Little, Annie
Snack: Raisins, Graham Crackers
Song: This Little Light of Mine and Bees
Saying(s): What're you doing, Mommy? No. Pwease. Help.
Color: Green (he says everything is "green")
Thing to Do: Swinging, Sliding, Running, Jumping

Liked waking up early and laying with Daddy

Had a BIG grin :)

Um, Hannah, you are supposed to eat that cake,

so if you aren't going to, I will.

What to do when you are stuck in Daddy's closet

during wild weather:

eat all of his breathmints like candy

and drape yourself in his ties!

Snacking through the MDO program

With his best friend, Isabelle, at the

end of the MDO Program

Good Morning, Mommy!

Last Day of Mother's Day Out :(

Enjoying the car carts at Meijer in Michigan

Making not so memorable memories

in Canada with Mommy

Eating at the bar at the Atlantic Coney Island

in Detroit where he had Mickey pancakes

The Train Toy Store was seriously the

best part of the trip for this kid!

What we really thought of the Detroit Zoo!

Samuel Turns 11 Months Old!

2011-04-23T22:39:00.000-05:00

Wow! Sweet Samuel has grown up extremely too fast... While we realize we've "babied" him in some ways, we're quickly learning that Samuel is no longer a baby. He's becoming quite the little boy!

In his 11th Month, Samuel:
Weighed about 18 pounds.
Was so short. :)
Had the cutest chubby legs.
Wore a size 3 in shoes...
only because his feet were wide.
Wore a size 12 months in clothes...
but needed size 6-9 months in pants.
Said the words: da-da, uh-oh
Only had two teeth.
Made many new friends at the Ministers' School.
Liked meeting his buddy, Lincoln.
Still scooting and not crawling...
Loved pulling up to stand.
Had his first taste of ice cream!
Went to the Fontanel Mansion with his parents
   on their 4th Anniversary!
Was "strolled" over a swimming pool!
Fell asleep often in his jumperoo.
Loved to play and read with big brother.
Made HILARIOUS faces!
Started liking television.
Had surgery to remove the skin tag.
Did extremely well.
Recovery was rough...
Cried until he fell asleep in Daddy's arms,
   with the help of 2 doses of pain meds.
Went home and played following surgery.
Had stitches and tape to cover his incision.
Didn't seem to be bothered at all.
Celebrated Daniel's 2nd birthday!
Slept through most of the party.
Finally somewhat switched to sippy cups.
Began getting some whole milk in his cups.
Kissed Mommy and Daddy the morning they left
   for their 8 day trip to Alaska.
Spent the next 8 days with his Mimi.

Some of Samuel's Favorite Things:

Food(s): Yogurt
Toy(s): Balls, Jumperoo
Snack: Puffs
Saying(s): da-da, uh-oh
Thing to Do: Standing Up

Proof that Sweet Samuel DOES make messes!

My first taste of Chick-fil-A ice cream!

At the Fontanel Mansion on Mommy

and Daddy's 4th Anniversary

Riding on the tour bus to the Mansion

Strolling over the Fontanel's swimming pool

Playing with Daniel

Eating my snacks

Surgery Day at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital

At Daniel's 2nd Birthday Bash

The morning Mommy and Daddy left for Alaska

Terribly Yet Terrifically TWO

2011-04-20T22:36:00.001-05:00

Daniel turned two on April 20th, and while Mommy and Daddy had to leave that morning for Alaska while he was sleeping, you cannot imagine our excitement for our sweet baby to make it to big boy status!

In his 24th month, Daniel:
Weighed 28 pounds; in 50th percentile.
Wore size 24 month and 2T clothes.
Wore size 8 in shoes!
Got souvenirs from Hawaii!
Lined all of his toys up...
Played with his friend, Bekah, often.
Took naps while riding on Mom's back in the Beco.
Helped celebrate Mom and Daddy's 4th Anniversary...
Mostly, just ate their chocolate cake!
Enjoyed making messes...
Pulled out every single item in Mommy's shelves.
Liked reading books with Samuel.
Spent time with family when Samuel had surgery.
Played with beans on rainy days.
Went to his first Easter egg hunt with Mimi.
Helped Mommy and Daddy pack for their Alaska trip.
Spent a LOT of time at Hobby Lobby...
while Mommy planned his birthday party.
Had a Trucks, Trains, & Planes party!
Loved the tracks his parents spray-painted in the yard.
Had his first cupcake BEFORE anyone arrived.
Lots of his friends came and played with him.
Ate a hot dog and chips... and 2 more cupcakes.
Got TONS of Thomas toys and items.
His favorite gift was definitely his Dinosaur Train from Addy.
Said bye-bye to Mommy and Daddy for a while.
They left on his 2nd birthday while he was sleeping...
Spent 8 days with his Mimi and Samuel!

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:
Food(s): Spaghetti, Peaches
Toy(s): Talking Thomas trains, Bash (logging loco train), Stickers
Show(s): Thomas, Caillou, Bob the Builder
Snack: Puffs, Pretzels
Song: This Little Light of Mine
Saying(s): What's that? Where are you? Where going? What doing?
Color: Blue (he says everything is "blue)
Thing to Do: Swinging and Dancing

SUPER excited over his car line!

"Look, Mommy!" were his exact words.

Reading with little brother before bath.

"I swingin," he says.

Taking Thomas through the beans...

Upon arrival for his 2nd birthday party...

Cupcake 1 of 3 for the birthday boy!

Thank you, Addy, for the Dinosaur Train.

Sleeping away when Mommy and Daddy left for Alaska

the morning of his 2nd birthday. :)

Daniel's 2nd Birthday Bash Decor

2011-04-19T16:20:00.000-05:00

Those of you who know me, know that I'm a "sucker" for birthday party decorations. I'm not as nuts about the parties themselves, just the details. So, Daniel's 2nd birthday party was no exception. I promised myself it wouldn't be a "big" as his first due to so many obligations and our busy schedule, but I couldn't help it...

Daniel loves trains. I mean, he absolutely would spend his whole day everyday playing with trains, and most of the time, he does. I wanted his party to impress him! I found the most adorable Trucks, Trains, and Planes scrapbook paper and designed the whole party around it. Here are a few pictures of the details:

The train tracks

We surprised Daniel with his own train tracks, spray-painted into the yard. The tracks led the way to the party in our back yard.

The birthday boy

Upon his arrival, Daniel was so excited over the tracks that he just stood and stared. He soon got the clue to take off down the tracks!

The back yard full of fun

(Special thanks to our friends, Lisa and Rob, for the bounce house and ride on toys)

The cupcake tower

(Special thanks to my dear friend, Becca H. at Custom Confections, for these!)

The party favors

Each child got their own appliqued t-shirt, and before you think I spent too much time on this, I'll go ahead and agree with you. :) While, it did take a bit of time, I could not stand the idea of spending money on plastic toys and sweet treats for favors. I wanted something individualized and special. I actually only spent $2 - $3 on each shirt and its fabric. I won't tell you how much time was spent on each!

Personalized thank-you notes

The train centerpiece

I saw this done and had to come up with a way to do it myself. I LOVED IT! While we served hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, and chips, this centerpiece was eye-catching and served as extra treats for everyone who didn't like cupcakes. By the way, the "steam" from the engine is actually cotton candy.

Pretzel Log freight car

Rock Candy freight car

Rice Krispy Treats "Hay Bales" freight car

(Special thanks to my mom, Mimi, for making these for us!)

Daniel's attire

I made Daniel's shirt. It was somewhat of a preview for everyone to see what their party favors were going to look like!

Daniel's attire #2

While I didn't get a good picture of it, Daniel's shirt was a little special in the fact that I added the number 2 to the back of it!

More pictures of the party to come...

Follow-Up Miracle

2011-04-18T16:08:00.000-05:00

On Monday, April 18th, Samuel had his follow up visit with Dr. Kelly, his plastic surgeon at Vanderbilt, just 5 short days following his surgery. The doctor's first words were, "He's fine." What a relief! The "tag" on Samuel's neck proved to be non-cancerous and as suspected ran deeply. It was through the muscles of Samuel's neck and connected to tissue, but this did not seem to cause any need for alarm. The surgery lasted all of 20 minutes.

What did surprise us, however, was the explanation of what this "skin tag" actually was. Apparently, when babies' ears are forming in the womb, they do so in 6 parts, and somehow, in God's providence, one of Samuel's parts did not form exactly where it should have. It formed into the fold of his neck. I know you are wondering how this is possible (as we did), but we were comforted with the knowledge that Samuel passed his hearing test as an infant. His ear shows no signs of malformation or discomfort. It is simply a miracle as God must have intended.

As my husband beautifully wrote after learning this news, our Lord knew that Samuel would one day need to hear the Gospel, and how fitting it is that it was in God's hands as He formed this little one within my womb, despite the "loss" of one of the six parts of his ear, God knew Samuel would be able to hear!

Surgery Day!

2011-04-14T10:11:00.005-05:00

After his birth, I noticed a small "skin tag" on Samuel's neck. At the time, the doctors believed we needed to wait until he was at least 6 months old to operate and remove it. At his 6 month well visit with the pediatrician, we set up an appointment to see a plastic surgeon at Vanderbilt. Ultrasounds showed very little, and the surgeon said that removing it would be the only way for him to know what exactly the mass was.

We have been waiting since February for our insurance to approve the surgery. After all the waiting, the process has actually happened very quickly! The surgery was approved and scheduled all in the same week! Praise God! Right on time, the spot had some noticeable changes. It had hardened and gotten a little bit larger. It never seemed to bother Samuel, though. Others noticed, however, and it bothered us at times to hear the comments people would make regarding something our child was born with, but God knew what He has in store for Samuel Levi.

Yesterday (April 13, 2011) was surgery day. He did amazing! Surgery was scheduled at noon, so he hadn't eaten for 12 hours. He was awaken at 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday night to eat a jar of banana/orange medley (in the dark). He had his last bottle of milk at 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning. The waiting room was hard, as they ran a bit behind schedule, and he was getting very irritated. Once we were called back, we dressed him in the cutest little pajamas, and answered a million of the same questions. We continued to wait for the OR to open for him. We said our goodbyes when the surgeon arrived. From what we understand, they put a breathing tube in, put him to sleep, ran an i.v. through his left foot, and removed the mass. Recovery was difficult. He was not soothed easily. In fact, upon waking, he needed two doses of pain medicine, but was quickly relieved by a nap in his Daddy's arms. Once he ate (4 oz of Pedialyte), we were allowed to head home. We learned that the spot WAS deeper than originally suspected and was connected to the muscle.

For now, he is on antibiotics, pain meds, and TLC for the next 5 days. He returns for a follow-up visit with the pediatric plastic surgeon on Monday, April 18th. Samuel is resting very well, and he has even crawled around and played with his "Get Well Soon" balloon from his aunt, Jessica. Thankfully, Jessica and Mom were able to stay with Daniel while we were at the Children's Hospital. Jessica even got us supper! We are so blessed with such wonderful family and friends. Thank you for your continued prayers. We didn't publicize this because we know that there are children in much more serious need of prayer, but we appreciate so much your concern for our sweet boy!

Here are some pictures from our day:

The night before surgery...

Watching Elmo with his big brother.

Here is the "mass" on his neck,

in case you've never seen it.

In the holding room, prior to surgery.

Aren't those pajamas precious?!

He was so hungry and sleepy.

Look how small he looked in that hospital bed!

Getting some play time in before surgery.

Last night, 6-7 hours after surgery.

His eyes are red as a side effect from anesthesia.

His incision is glued, stitched, and covered.

HOWEVER, he was ready for applesauce!

Whirlwind

2011-04-04T16:27:00.000-05:00

I feel as though life has been moving like a whirlwind lately. Everyone tells us constantly to "enjoy it" because "they'll be grown" before we know it. I've come to the realization that everyone isn't kidding. I have two babies that are quicking becoming "not" babies. In the next month and a half, I will celebrate two boys' birthdays... Daniel will turn two, and Samuel will be one. Go ahead, and gasp at that.

As the boys and I hovered in the closet today, eating Dunkaroos, puffs, and pb & j's, I noticed that these moments are swiftly passing me by. I find myself caught up in the difficulty of raising two boys under two, and I manage to miss how precious it truly is. As the lights flickered on and off as the weather outside raged, I found myself as content as I'd ever been... so grateful and feeling incredibly humbled that this really is my life.

When I least expect it, God reminds me to "Be still," while I am staring in the blue-eyed boys He's entrusted me with, and no matter what winds are blowing, I can be assured that God is in control. He knows what tomorrow holds, and be it a second birthday party or years down the road, I have these days to cherish because of Him.

Oh, and as for the storms, our swingset and grill met their match...

Samuel Turns 10 Months Old...

2011-03-23T09:38:00.000-05:00

In his 10th month, Samuel:
Pulled himself up to stand for the 1st time.
Clapped his hands.
Made the silliest faces.
Had the sweetest smiles.
Began saying, "Da-da."
Visited with his friend, Jaden.
Was still waiting on surgery...
Wore 6-12 month and 9 month clothes.
Wore a size 3 shoe.
Was wearing size 3 diapers.
Had chubby legs, cheeks, and arms! :)
Slept from 9 p.m. - 5 a.m. almost every night.
Was a tummy sleeper.
Loved having his blanket cover his face while he slept.
Made growling noises.
Liked eating puffs, crunchies, and Cheerios.
Still only had 2 teeth.
Loved playing by himself.
Would reach for who he wanted.
Would not crawl... but always "scooted."
Said to look just like his Mommy.
Liked baths.
Missed his Mimi, Aunt Ca, Pop and Gran-Ju
while they were on their 16-day Hawaiian cruise.
Watched the quake and tsunami footage of Japan.

Some of Samuel's Favorite Things:

Food(s): applesauce
Toy(s): penguin bath toy, books, teethers, jumperoo, learning table
Snack: Cheddar crunchies and puffs
Saying(s): da-da, the "growl"
Thing to Do: take baths, scoot, stand

Standing for the first time!

Sweet, sweet child of mine.

Visiting with neighbor and friend, Jaden.

Trying to take Jaden's pacifier! :)

Helping Mom with the laundry...

right after his bath. LOL!

Finding his basket of toys,

and making the "little Jenna" face.

Meeting his cousin, Kallie, for the first time.

Playing on his learning table.

Getting kisses from big brother.

Welcoming his Mimi back!

23 Months Old...

2011-03-22T13:37:00.000-05:00

Our mister Daniel Benjamin is getting awfully close to turning two, and if I didn't know any better, I'd say he knows it. His tantrums and fits have become increasingly more dramatic with each passing day, but the sweetness he holds within him has melted our hearts. Here is what Daniel's 23rd month consisted of!

In his 23rd month, Daniel:
Weighed 29-30 lbs.
Wore size 24 month clothes.
Wore size 7.5 - 8 in shoes.
Still in size 4 diapers.
Showing signs of interest to potty train.
Says "pee-pee" and "potty,"
   but has not yet pee-peed IN the potty.
Set himself a NEW bed time.
   He will not go to bed until 10.
Loved playing outside.
Always dances and jumps.
Throws and kicks balls.
Becoming a really great eater.
Drinks a ton...
Enjoyed sliding and swinging.
Likes wearing his Crocs.
Has started asking for "Pop" all of the time.
   "Pop" is actually Grandpa.
Went for a ride to the country with Grandpa.
Had his first chocolate milkshake (thanks, Grandpa).
Missed Mimi and Aunt Ca while they were on their Hawaiian cruise.
Got some great souvenoirs when they returned!
Says "sorry" when he gets in trouble.
Climbs all the time.
Likes turning the lights on and off.
Also, likes turning the t.v. on and off.
Demands "d.b.d." all day long. (dvd)
Loves watching Caillou, Barney, and Thomas.
Got a TON of clothes/toys/shoes at consignment sales.
Makes animal noises!
Talks ALL of the time... Sentences!
Can be the sweetest big brother...
   Then, can be the meanest big brother seconds later.
Likes to pick Samuel up now. By his neck.
Gives hugs and kisses.
Tells us what he wants in sentence form.

Some of Daniel's Favorite Things:
Food(s): spaghetti, chicken nuggets, pineapple
Toy(s): Thomas books, ride-on train, Shake n Go Cars, and Jack (little Thomas vehicle)
Snack: milkshake, raisins
Song: EIEIO
Saying(s): I want more. Hi brudder. Go play outside.
Color: yellow
Thing to Do: ride in Grandpa's truck, play piano

Loving on Little Brother

Playing a Song

Sleeping Hard in His Toddler Bed

Always Makes His Friends Laugh

Likes Lining EVERYTHING Up

(these are his pull-ups lined across the room)

Meeting His New Cousin, Kallie Beth, for 1st Time

Pat on the Back

2011-03-15T15:22:00.001-05:00

Do you ever have times when you just need a pat on the back? You just need to hear that you are doing a good job and are appreciated for the work you do. In today's society, it is often difficult to get that positive reinforcement we need as people. In our humble, human nature, we need to know that the tasks and jobs we have and complete are being recognized by someone who is in a higher position than we are, and when we do not receive the praise we deem is necessary, we sometimes feel as though we are looked at as disappointments.

I have felt that way many times as a stay-at-home parent. People hear that I have a college degree and actually quit my teaching job on my own will, and immediately I am judged as a "quitter" or someone who has failed in society. Even still, I knew it was God's will for me to leave that career and begin this new one as a wife and a parent. It hasn't been easy. There are days that I long to be among desks and bulletin boards. I even imagine what craft we might be creating if I still was a teacher to twenty Kindergarteners.

However, it has been brought to my attention lately that I am doing exactly as God had planned. It wasn't my husband who commended my work in our home. My dad, who funded my college aspirations, has never once admitted how he feels about my current role in the home and not in the classroom. It wasn't a young mother or a woman who has been in my position, but it was a 22-month-old, little boy....

As he woke in the middle of night crying for Daddy, it was Mommy who went to sit at Daniel's bedside. While I knew I would much rather be sleeping and getting the rest I needed for the next exhausting day, sweet Daniel placed his arm around my neck and bent over to "Muah" my head. I started to stand, seeing he was finally soothed, and he quickly pulled me in closer to him. Despite my discomfort, kneeling over his blue toddler bed, this precious child proceeded to pat me on my back until he fell asleep.

There are times in life when all we need is to know is that we are noticed while doing our best. Be it from a manager, boss, or friend, that recognition does amazing things to a person's heart. The encouragement we receive often pushes us to work harder and continue on. Sometimes, it comes from the tiniest of voices - sometimes in the night, others during our work - but it always comes to a heart that's in need. My "pat on the back" came from my little boy, but I am certain that God had a hand in Daniel's while he was rubbing my shoulder. God knows all about what we need, and believe me, He is there despite the quiet, empty, and tired places we find ourselves in. Let Him speak to you and encourage your heart. He's always ready...

9 Months

2011-02-23T09:03:00.000-06:00

In his 9th month, Samuel:
Weighed 18 lbs and 7.5 oz (only 20th percentile)
Was 26 1/4 inches long (only 5th percentile)
Got his flu booster shot.
Saw a Vanderbilt Plastic Surgeon about the removal of his skin tag,
who believed surgery was his best option.
Still waiting on insurance pre-certification for surgery...
Wore 9 month clothes.
Fit into size 3 diapers.
Started making distinct sounds like da-da-da and ba-ba-ba.
Held his own bottle.
Liked eating puffs.
Had two teeth.
Would scoot to your feet if he wanted picked up.
Liked eating peas and apples mixed.
Still disliked sweet potatoes and peas (if not mixed).
Always held his right arm up when eating. HILARIOUS!
Would play by himself... quietly.
Tried avoiding Daniel, but loved him at the same time.
Sat up on his own.
Got bronchialitis.
Had to take lots of breathing treatments.
Was always so happy and sweet.
Went to bed at 9 p.m. and woke usually at 4 a.m.!
Everyone said he was chubby...
and pretty. :)
Had great coordination with his fingers...
Could pick up the smallest items.
Always wanted what Daniel had.
Tried a sippy cup. Didn't work so well.

Give me some more food, please!

"Crawling" to Pop!

Loved being held...

And really liked kisses.

Took a bath with his big brother for the first time!

Look at his sweet cheeks!

2 Months Away from Turning 2

2011-02-20T13:59:00.001-06:00

In Daniel's 22nd Month, He:
Helped to clean up his messes.
Liked eating cubed cheese.
Wanted to always drink from a big cup.
Liked straws.
Stole a piece of chocolate from Daddy.
Weighed 29 lbs.
Wore a size 8 in shoes. HUGE feet.
Wore 18-24 month clothes.
Still wore size 4 diapers.
Was so mischievious.
Learned to say "Sowwy."
Would not say it if he was in trouble.
Kissed us after he got spankings.
Tried time-out instead of spankings.
Needless to say, Mommy needed time-out after trying time-out on Daniel!
Was way too rough on Samuel.
Liked riding Daddy's "Sosey" (horsey).
Loved "stickas" (stickers).
Always wanted to read books before bed (FINALLY).
Was quiet while we prayed, then would very proudly say, "Amen."
Wants to hold hands during prayers.
Climbed everything.
Broke everything.
Ate everything.
Talked all of the time. Most popular words/phrases were:

I don't know.
Stinky.
Sticky.
Yuck.
Oh no.
No.
Wow.
Thomas, Sodor, Percy, Spencer, To-to (Tobey), Choo choo, twack
Bye-bye.
Hi Mommy, Hi Daddy
Hey buddy.
Brudder (that's brother in case you weren't sure).
Hi Samyule.
Jump.
Knock knock.
Eat.
Car.
Now.
Hot.
Bath.
Cackee (cookie) and Cwacka (cracker)
Cake
Ball.
Ow side.
Diaper.
Ouch.
Mimi, Ca, and Pa (family members who frequent)

Hated for his hands to be dirty, sticky, or wet.
Loved wearing big boy underwear.
Got new furniture in his room.
Really, really liked pulling the cushions off our couches,
   and having jump fests in the living room.
Began to be bossy.
Would push/kick/hit any child smaller than himself.
Would not listen to Mommy.
Put his hands out/up to the air when he wasn't sure of something,
   as if to say, "I don' know," or "Why aren't you doing what I want?"
Laughed in a deep, scary kind of way when up to no good.
Has learned all of the Thomas & Friends by name/color.
Got a lot of play time in the snow!
Loved having the doorbell ring
   and opening the door to see who is behind it.
Was completely social.
A list of Daniel's Favorites:

Book - Hero of the Rails by Goldenbook
T.V. Show(s) - Thomas, Caillou, and that's all.
Foods - spaghetti and mini lunchables.
Snack - raisins.
Song - Caillou theme song; Twinkle, Twinkle is a close second.
Clothing Item -Thomas Pajamas (he has 6 pairs) and/or Train sweater.
Drink - Chocolate Milk. Hands down.
Activity - playing outside.
Toy- ANYTHING Thomas. Also likes tools and cars.
Place to go - church. He gets spoiled rotten.

A LOVEly Weekend in Pictures

2011-02-19T21:41:00.001-06:00

We spent our Valentine's weekend on the go, and while we aren't big fans of all the details and "hoop-la" surrounding many holidays, we have decided that we can show God's love in every "holiday" that we experience. So, here is how we spent our Valentine's with the ones we love...

Mimi brought the boys their Valentine's gifts early on the 12th.

Daniel received an awesome box of snacks, a talking Toby train from Thomas and Friend, a Toby apple juice cup, and some other goodies.

Samuel got some Gerber Puffs, a box of Gerber baby food, and a set of cars. The boys got Mimi a gift card to Cato and a bag of her favorite candies.

After spending the evening at our church's "It's a Love Story" dinner, we came home to find our firstborn wide awake and ready for his own loving!

We spent the entire Valentine's Day together! We started our day outside, enjoying the beautiful sunshine!

Grandpa brought Daniel his own box of Dum-Dum suckers!

Daniel and Samuel gave Pa a box of banana chips and Snickers.

Pa and Mimi kept the boys for Mommy and Daddy to go to dinner.

We attempted a few family shots...

But Mommy and Daddy ended up eating at Longhorn and watching a movie, in the van!

The next morning, we woke to find Samuel not feeling so well.

He continued getting worse. Details will follow in a later post.

Daniel went to Mother's Day Out and brought home this Valentine to Mommy and Daddy.

He spent most of his evening enjoying all of the Valentines he received at MDO.

Daniel loved his Valentines from Mommy and Daddy:

a Whiff train from Thomas and Friends and Hero of the Rails golden book.

Daddy let Daniel pick his very own Valentine's balloon...

He chose an Elmo one.

Samuel loved his gifts too:

a set of cars (the same set Mimi got him) and a First Words book.

He really liked watching Daniel's balloon. :)

Did I mention that Aunt Ca ALSO spent Valentine's evening with the boys AND got them lots of goodies?! Seriously, we are so loved.

Growing Up is (Easy) to Do

2011-02-17T18:56:00.000-06:00

... at least for Daniel, it is.

Mommy and Daddy think it is a bit hard watching our firstborn grow up so quickly, but we are so proud of all he is accomplishing. Like, just this week, he made the switch from his crib which was converted into a toddler/day bed to an actual toddler bed. He climbed in this new bed like it was no big deal at all. He was jumping on the bed and laughing like it was the best thing he'd seen in weeks!

Special thanks goes to our friends, Tim, Becca, and G, for allowing us to buy this from them! An even bigger thanks to Becca for spending - what I can only imagine was - hours working on this bed for her little one who decided a twin bed was better for him. And, of course, we can't help but be super appreciative of God's intricate working in the color that just-so-happened to match our previously purchased bedding perfectly!

Time for a Lunch Break

2011-02-16T12:54:00.000-06:00

We get awfully busy around this house. I mean, there are actually nights when I get in bed and wonder if my kids saw my face that day or only in passing! Thankfully, there are moments when the Lord just slows me down and shows me His goodness... Usually, it's staring right back at me. :)

So, without many words, I just wanted to share these pictures of Daniel from lunch a week ago. It's a lunch break I'll always treasure, because from across the table, I watched as my firstborn shared his many precious faces. If this face cannot slow a Momma down, then God surely will use it to do so!

In Full Force.

2011-02-09T23:31:00.000-06:00

I haven't posted much lately, only because the weather's been crazy and we've been busy. I never take the time or have the time to just sit down and type. Either way, I know you want to know what we're up to, and here's the bulleted rundown:

Daniel's been coughing a lot. I took him for a sick visit after he woke with a 102.9 fever on Tuesday, and it turns out that his asthma is back in full force. He's now on TWO inhalers. Wow.
By the way, Daniel weighs 29 lbs and 9.5 oz. He's a growing boy! No wonder why my back always hurts.
Samuel is in full force scooting/crawling/reaching/grabbing mode. He literally can get to anything and everywhere in this house. He's also sitting up on his own, eating approximately 3 jars of food a day, and weighing way too much. Samuel is a chunky thing; it's precious for sure, but not easy on the mother's back.
Daniel is obsessed with trains. This train infatuation is serious business. The kid will wake each morning, head to the hamper, and pull out his clothes/pajamas from the day before as long as they have a train on them. He demands to wear them, dirty or not! He begs for "Thomas" and "Sodor" all day long. He'll tell me "t.v." so he can watch more episodes of Thomas & Friends, and I'm serious when I say the kid is demanding. Daniel will stand and point at the television until his arm gets too tired and then begin saying, "Thomas" and "Sodor" over and over and over again.
Daniel has also begun a new habit of removing his clothes every chance he gets. We've had more stains on our carpets than I care to mention (so thankful the Lord allowed us to get a carpet cleaner at a discounted price) because he refuses to tell me he is "stinky." We're not to the potty training stage just yet because he is just now beginning to understand the word, "stinky." Nevertheless, Daniel's nakedness has become quite normal around our house.
The snow has happened upon our area in full force this winter! We got 3 inches on Monday and received another 3 today. It's beautiful! Now, if only it weren't so cold (9 degrees is the low), I could get these boys out of the house!
I'm painting in every second of free time I'm allowed. It's been really difficult, and I believe I've realized that painting will have to become my ~~third~~ thirtieth priority once I finish my wait list. My Lord, husband, and children have to be higher on the list, and right now, I feel as though all my family sees of me is the back of my head, facing a painting.
Brian is in full-on study mode. He is always reading. I feel as if the Lord is really teaching and him right now about a number of things, and it's an honor to sit back and watch my husband as he grows in God's word. It's so humbling and uplifting at the same time. He's teaching in a local prison once a week, preaching once a month in the mission and at 2-3 different prisons, and also full-time pastoring a church. God never ceases to amaze me with how much Brian is doing. I'm so blessed to be his wife... :)

Sorry so quick but sleep is necessary, and it will be had in full force tonight...

Eating Fool

2011-02-05T14:50:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to post these pictures/videos of Samuel for a few weeks now, and I always forget until I sit down to feed him and realize how hilarious he is! He is quite the eater... In fact, he's busy eating 1-2 jars of food 3 times a day as well as throwing back 5-6 bottles like they are no big deal. However, he has some interesting habits when it comes to food. As a matter of fact, he hates vegetables. HATES them. I mean, loathes when he has to take bites of peas or sweet potatoes. He'll push each spoonful right out of his mouth. So, I've managed to mix his fruits with his veggies, and he hasn't seemed to notice. In fact, I had mixed apples with these carrots he was enjoying a few weeks ago... WHICH is when I noticed another eating "habit" he's accustomed to doing. He will hold his right arm up the E-N-T-I-R-E meal. He'll even start hitting and rubbing the table if it's really good food.

Arm Up!

Watch his arm. It's a 2-3 minute video, and Samuel keeps his arm up the whole time.

Throw Your Hand Up from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.

Not seconds after I stopped filming, Samuel began rubbing the high chair and smacking his hand down after each bite, as if to say, "Good stuff, Mom. Keep it coming." Watch this if you don't believe me...

The Smackdown on Carrots from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.

Pop-In Visits

2011-02-05T14:41:00.000-06:00

My boys are so blessed. I mean it, they really are. They can almost be guaranteed that at least once a week, they are going to have a visitor. The visitors usually range from week to week, and most of the time they see their Mimi, Grandpa, and Pop at least once a week or more!

My heart melts when Daniel cuddles up to his visitors. He gets so excited upon hearing the doorbell ring or the repitition of knocks; he cannot wait to see who is behind the door. Pop always gives me a forewarning of a few minutes that he's on his way to see the boys, but I don't think Daniel or Samuel would mind if he showed up by surprise ANY day of the week.

Daniel reading his Veggie Tales bible storybook with Pop

Samuel loves getting his Pop time as well

Both boys getting Pop's attention

Showing Pop how he can crawl!

Very interested in the story

I realize that not every child has a great-grandparent like my boys do. Pop is the best influence my boys could have. I've grown up admiring his love for the Lord, and I have always enjoyed heeding his advice. I know he won't always be around, but I am eternally grateful for all he does for my family. These sweet visits from him feel my heart with joy... Something about watching your children play with the grandparent you loved so much as a child is beautiful. I cannot thank God enough for moments like these.

Sorry, Daddy.

2011-01-29T03:02:00.001-06:00

If you think your name is on that piece of chocolate, Daddy,
then you are wrong.

If you think you hid it so I could not find it, Daddy,
then you are wrong.

If you think I cannot make a way to get that chocolate, Daddy,
then you are wrong.

If you think I am going to tell you the truth about it, Daddy,
then you are wrong.

If you think my face can tell the whole story, Daddy...
well, then you'd be right!

Will Steal for Chocolate from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.

This Doggy is NOT Funny.

2011-01-29T02:58:00.000-06:00

Last weekend for my birthday, we headed to the local Cracker Barrel with the whole family. It's never a quick trip to Cracker Barrel with a toddler in tow. Daniel had nearly fifteen meltdowns to get out of his high chair. He kept yelling, "Hot!" and pointing at the fireplace and then realized we had fire on our table... Then, he told every single waitress that passed, "Hello," time and time again. To keep his attention, we all entertained him with coloring books, biscuits, trains, and tea, and all of that was BEFORE supper even arrived. At that point, he'd eaten so many strawberry-jellied biscuits that I'm sure the sight of carrots and green beans weren't all that exciting.

Strawberry Jelly on your Biscuit?

Yes, please.

Now, clean my hands.

What WAS exciting was when Grandpa finished eating super quickly and allowed Daniel the opportunity to run wild in Cracker Barrel's country store! The rest of us enjoyed our meals and finally headed out to see what Daniel and Pa had gotten into. The kids' section at Cracker Barrel is full of fun. You would have thought that Daniel was having his own birthday celebration, pulling out every item from its shelf and playing with it until it bored him. Surprisingly, though, there was one "toy" Daniel didn't find too amusing. What's funny about it is the fact that it laughs itself silly, rolls all around, and just about scares Daniel to death!

The Laughing Doggy from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.

28 is Great!

2011-01-27T12:25:00.000-06:00

I turned 28 five days ago, and can I tell you that, although I am quickly approaching thirty, I had one of the best birthdays I have ever had! I was spoiled rotten all weekend long and thoroughly enjoyed it. I got some very thoughtful gifts ranging from clothes and my favorite ice cream cake to BareMinerals makeup, a Willow Tree figurine, gift certificates galore, and money! Who said getting older wasn't great?!

It always had snowed on my birthdays in years past... In fact, we just expect it. Even if there isn't snow in the forecast, I know it's coming. I've had parties cancelled and rescheduled for as along as I can remember. So, when they called for snow days before my birthday, it too was almost as if it was God's gift to me. :)

Here are some pictures from my birthday weekend:

Daniel enjoying Mommy's birthday snow...

Daniel decides to give Mommy a break on her birthday

and feeds Samuel for her.

Okay, nevermind how we look!

Mom and me at dinner

(Who forgets to wear makeup on her birthday?!)

Eating his strawberry biscuit at Cracker Barrel on Mom's birthday.

Marble Slab Ice Cream cake!

Finally, a picture of the birthday girl!

Daniel helps Mommy open her present.

Samuel loves on Mommy before bed.

But, before going to bed, Samuel surprises her

by crawling on his hands and knees

for the very first time...

on her birthday!

8 Months Old

2011-01-23T01:34:00.048-06:00

I know... Samuel is getting way. too. big.

In his 8th month, Samuel:
Slept so well... on his stomach.
Wore size 3 diapers.
Fit in size 6-9 month clothes.
Wore a size 2 shoe.
Scooted across the house.
All over it.
Got TWO teeth!
Loved laying on his belly.
Enjoyed his first Christmas.
Got a new Britax car seat and lots of clothes, toys, and shoes.
Liked rolling the ball.
Laughed at his brother a lot.
Was always grinning.
Switched to formula.
Ate at least one jar of food each day.
Hated peas and sweet potatoes.
Loved all fruits.
COULD NOT eat Puffs yet.
Found the tiniest pieces of trash/dirt on the floor.
Still in his infant car seat.
Started getting heavy.
Hated sitting up.
Began liking the exersaucer...
Because he could stand and not sit.
Had favorite toys... rattles and links.
Tolerated Daniel's roughness.
Took long naps.
Had eczema on his belly, arms, stomach, and face.
Loved his bath and scooting around the tub.
Was held often... He was SO sweet!
Celebrated his Mommy's 28th birthday.
Took his first major, balanced crawl on his hands and knees that same day.

One very, precious present...

Samuel's first Christmas 2010

Cutting teeth during the Christmas season

and hanging with Pa

Sitting with Daddy

Laughing at Pa...

With cousin Landon

Rolling the ball around the living room

Playing in the exersaucer

Sitting up on his own all the time

Sharing his toys with Daniel

Letting big brother feed him

With Mommy on her 28th birthday!

Crawling isn't so hard...

And, just because he's so sweet...

here's a video I got of him one afternoon during his 8th month.

Get That Ball! from Jenna Johnson on Vimeo.