How to Welcome an Allergy Family into Your Home

Friends- this is my opinion, only.  This is not a scientific method or study.  I cannot guarantee that this will protect all children in your home.  I am not a doctor, nurse, nor allergist, just a concerned mama friend of an allergy family, and this is what we do to welcome them into our home.

My best friend's daughter has a peanut allergy- she is one of the 1%.  Yes, I didn't realize it was only 1% that have a peanut allergy specifically.  From how much I hear about this, I figured it would be much higher, but that's what The Peanut Institute shares and, I'll go with it.  Here is the thing, food allergies, as with any allergy really, can be life threatening.  It is believed that each reaction gets worse with most food allergies.  Little A has had skin reactions from her limited exposure to peanut butter, so we're not taking any chances.

But here is the deal.  Families of kids with allergies shouldn't have to be quarantined from going into people's homes.  However, if it is best for their safety, then by all means.  (My husband is allergic to cats so we're cautious, he takes medicine before we go and washes his hands often while we are around cats.)  I personally feel it is fair to have a special allergy free space at an elementary school (for example) for children to eat the best lunches for them keeping everyone safe.  I feel it is the responsibility of the school and teacher to require children to wash their hands after lunch, before returning to the classroom to keep their students safe.

I truly do try to be sensitive to food allergies while still allowing my family to eat those foods.  I am helping my friend by keeping her girls part-time this summer while she goes to nursing school, so I am on high alert these days.  It is important to me that Little A can be in my home at any point in time- but since I have her three days a week, I am watching extra cautiously.  This is my routine/how I prepare to have a friend with a food allergy at our allergy free house.

1. Clear all counters and tables the night before they come over, wipe them down with a cleaning solution. (I use a homemade vodka, essential oil, water cleaner on my granite.  I wipe mine daily, but am sure to use the cleaner on Little A days.)
2.  Spot check furniture if you let your children eat on it- for me this is my living room and kitchen chairs, both leather/pleather.  I do a wipe down with vinegar/water if I see anything suspicious.
3. Wipe handles/doorknobs with a baby wipe.  Again, this isn't scientific, I am doing my best to make a safe space for my friend's child and so far we have done well with this.
4. Wash all children's plates/cups/silverware in the dishwasher.
5. Take all kitchen rags and towels to the laundry the night before she arrives and have fresh ones that morning.
6. No peanut butter on Little A days until she is gone from the house for the day.

I am guessing you can see the reasoning behind each of these- if not, ask away!  Overall, I think of where we have peanut butter in our house (it if very rare that we have actual nuts at this stage in life, but if we did, I would vacuum, which I do daily, to be sure they're all cleaned up.) and try to clean that space.  The one rule I think that is most easily forgotten is 'dishrags and kitchen towels.'  I wipe all faces, it is very possible that I could wipe Little A's face with a cloth used for pbj the day before and she could react- this avoids that problem altogether.  This isn't a perfect plan, but it is good as I know how.  I do not plan to make my home allergy free unless one of my children has a food allergy, but I feel like this is fair and loving to accommodate her at my house.

Do you have any friends with food allergies?  Do you prepare to have them in your home any particular way?

Vacationing with Small Kids

Going on vacation is a huge deal for our family, like- so gigantic we don't do it.  Part one is my own fear- I do not like change, unknown, surprises and not being in control.  Part two is we just cannot afford it.  Part three is it is hard, it is just REALLY, REALLY hard.  But friends, I hope after the end of this week (yes, go big or go home, we're gone Saturday to Saturday) I can say it was worth it.  We are traveling for the first time as a family of four- with my husband's entire immediate family- Nana, three adult siblings + spouses, and six children age five and under.

This trip has been planned for months and dreamt of for longer.  My husband's sister and husband own a timeshare that they have worked around points so we can do this sort of thing.  After researching flights- we settled on a location that was a little less than perfect, but we're loving it so far.  (So what makes it less than perfect? It isn't on the beach, it isn't easy to get to the beach from here walking/biking, there isn't much close by for walking)  But- it was our best bet to GET to and to eat our own food.  Apart from finding a location, booking airline tickets and just discussing what we'd like to do in Myrtle Beach, SC I started my lists.  I know, I know.  It was December and I had lists for a trip in June in a notebook.  So.... for my first post about vacationing with small kids, I'd like to talk about those lists.   For some people, it doesn't work, and that is totally okay.  But if you're like me- and you don't want to be caught with your pants down at a resort with no way other than a taxi to a store 5 miles away..... maybe you should stick with me on this.

I started with the easy stuff- each person got a 1/4 page (so this was one sheet, front and back).  I knew we had units with laundry in them, so I decided to pack 4 outfits, 2 swim suits, and 2-3 pairs of jammies.  Our little dude got 4 pairs, the kid leaks through his diaper EVERY night.  You wanna see my list?  Ok fine, twist my arm.

Daddy
2 pair nicer shorts
2 pair athletic shorts
4 t-shirts (1 blue for family photo)
1 pair jersey shorts and 1 sleep t-shirt
2 swim trunks
1 rash guard
4 pairs underwear
2 pairs socks
flip flops
1 hat (he is bald)

Owen
4 outfits (1 blue for family photos)
2 extra shirts for nasty spills/stains
4 jammies
2 swimsuits
1 rash guard
flip flops

Brooke
2 short/t-shirt outfits
2 dresses
2 night gowns
4 undies
2 swimsuits (which I am only letting her use one, it is my FAVORITE of hers and the pool bottom totally ripped up the butt, not letting that happen to ANOTHER suit!  BUMMED!)
cover up
sandals/keens/summer shoes

Mommy
4 t shirts
4 tank tops (I layer)
2 bottoms
picture outfit (I'm wearing a dress I won't wear to just hang out in on vacation) + 2 scarves to pick the best
2 jammies
4 undies
1 bra
bikini top, bottoms, rash guard (I wear my rash guard as a top... but my rack is too big to not wear a bikini top, don't judge)
skirt for walking to the pool
flip flops

Then I tried to think of what would entertain our family on the plane, the movies were the best.  Honestly IN the airport was the hardest waiting for the infamous "a-pane ride!"

On Plane (Backpack for each person)
Largest shoes for all- Tennis shoes for Daddy and B, Birkenstock for Mommy, Owen only owns 1 pair of shoes that fit now
Technology: ipad, itouch, headphones
Snacks: goldfish, teddy grahams, banana, fruit snacks, mini packet skittles and m&ms, 2 empty sippy cups
Miscellaneous Toys (the night I packed, I actually made a list and took a picture of it on my phone so I can check it before we leave when we let him take out his toys: magnadoodle, 3 matchbox cars, dinosaur transformer, 2 dinosaurs, elephant, jaguar, matchbox trike, light up mini light saber, mini pillow pet- for bedtime, coloring book, 1 box crayons, stickers, barbie plus 2 pairs shoes, polly pocket)
2 pacifiers
In Brooklyn's Backpack: 1 Barbie, 2 pairs of shoes for Barbie, Bag of Polly Pocket, Coloring Book and Crayons, Lovie

1 Sippy cup per child

We keep bathroom time simple, and this is what I needed most:

Toiletries
Teeth supplies (this is 3 types for us and the kids, UGH!)
shampoo/conditioner
baby soap
shaving cream
razors
hairbrush
soap dad
soap mom
qtips
contact cases/solution/extra pairs
glasses
moisturizer
deodorants

And then I had to figure out what we needed out of those categories-

Family needs
tide washing packets (I brought 5 because that was the package I purchased for about $0.10 with sales and coupons)
diapers- if we had a car or were close to a store, I would have bought these at our destination.  I brought 5 diapers a day
wipes
sunglasses
goggles
sunscreen (I packed 4 spray kids, 3 adult spray, 1 kid lotion, 1 adult lotion, I kid face stick.  This has been a great amount for our family, I reapply a TON and we've had no burns so far.  We apply lotion to start the day and spray while we're out and about. I use the kid's face stick on our lips as they are easy to forget about!)
2 shovels, 2 sieves, 1 plastic tablecloth to make a "pool" at the beach
2 small beach towels, cheap that can be tossed if I need space in our bag
swim diapers (I brought a pack of 17, you never know what your kids will be like in the pool, I reuse them if they aren't pooped in or smothered in sand)
beach bag
camera
2 extra sippy cups (Yes, we lost one on day one, so this was essential)
pacifiers (3 extra hidden in case we lose some)

Vacation is coming to a close and we have purchased NOTHING other than fun stuff.  The only item I have thought may have been nice to have was a sweatshirt because the AC can be pretty cool in the evenings- but I didn't want to take up space and get sweaty.  The evenings have not been cold enough to need anything here mid 70s, so I don't miss it really.  We packed in one carry on (STUFFED with our entire wardrobe for the week all rolled) and 1 checked bag that was 43 pounds, I believe.  Without the diapers it should be a touch lighter, our clothes were very heavy.

I am so grateful we brought what we did, and not much more.  I have 3 washing packets left and 2 days of vacation left, I will use at least one of those, I LOVE coming home with clean clothes to simply put into drawers.

Well friends.... so that's it!  It looks like so much, but I PROMISE we only brought a carry on, checked bag, each kid had a backpack with kid stuff in it, my backpack with my camera and a few other items, and my husband's backpack with his laptop, mine and the ipad.  This has been so great, not panicking and needing more stuff has been so rewarding!  You CAN do this, I know it may sound like too much, but you'll love it!  I was skeptical, but we have had a lovely time.  And have LOVED the beach (yes, I'm still in shock!) with a curious 2 year old boy and his almost 4 year old sister.... more on that another day!

*Normally I'd have packed sun hats for the kids, they refuse to wear them, not worth packing then.
*The multiple bathing suits was GENIUS.  The pool chewed up the bum of my daughter's suit so she wore one to the pool, one to the ocean, and she was happy to put the sandy suit in the wash but still have a pool suit!

Cleaning Barf From Your Carseat

After our son had food poisoning this week and barfed all over the house- we finally got out of the house a few days later.  It was glorious.  We swam, we played, we laughed together.  And then... he barfed.  So much pool water barf ALL over himself, his carseat, and the actual seat of the car.

Shaking head.

God help me.

So I set out to fix this stank of a problem and well... this carseat that we have, although I love it.... is not an easy one to clean.  I scoured the internet for help and I came up so short.  Everyone talked about using q-tips.  People... q-tips weren't going to touch this shit.  Gross.  So, here is my "cleaning barf from your carseat" instructions, because we ALL need that. (Note: I did call Evenflo for help- there are so many screws on this seat, but there are warnings all over it: DO NOT REMOVE, blah blah.  So, the lady basically said there was no suggestion other than spraying it with vinegar.  I asked her if a vinegar bath sounded like it would hurt the seat, and she said it sounded like our best option.  So, just an FYI, your seat MAY come apart... mine does not.)

Step 1:

Remove carseat from car. (If you're like my husband, keep the barfasaurus in the seat for transportation)  Clean up the car, the smell will be SOOOOOO rank in the morning.

Step 2:

Remove carseat cover- take pictures if you have to so you can put it back together.  We have an Evenflo Triumph 65 and it is very simple to remove the cover.

Step 2a: Shake off all chunks (we do this in our sink so it can go down the garbage disposal, blegh, ewwww, it is SO AWFUL)

Step 2b: Pretreat if you feel necessary, we had some leftover ice cream dribbles that I threw a little Shout on.

Step 3:

Wash according to your manufacturer's instructions.  I usually wash our Evenflo Triumph in the machine on a delicate setting with a cloth diapering friendly detergent- BEWARE you can wash off the flame retardant- follow your manufacturer's instructions on what type of cleaners to use.

Step 4:

While the cover is washing, get down with the big plastic seat.  Remove any foam that you can- we can remove the two hip pieces but NOT the back/head piece.  We live in Chicago, it has been a miserably cold winter so we had to use the shower for this next part.  My husband did shake the seat out sideways, upside down, etc in the yard to get anything dry off of it (I rarely buy goldfish, but they breed in his seat, apparently!).  We had to put the carseat into the shower.  We just ran it on really hot for a decent amount of time- I put Shout on the straps since they cannot be removed and sprayed vinegar/water solution in the seat of the seat- does that make sense?

Here is our seat in the bath, don't judge my messy bathroom, did I mention we had food poisoning and 2 kids barfing this week?  This is in the fully reclined position and the water is still filling.  You may be able to see it actually coming through the crevices where the straps are.

*Your cover should be done being washed by now, we choose to air dry our cover so we don't have any shrinking, etc.  I just reshape it and hang it on a chair overnight, yes, it takes all night to dry.  Many covers can be tumbled on low for a short amount of time, I am not a risk taker, apparently.

Step 5:

Let dry.  BIG MISTAKE.  We didn't realize how much water would stay in the seat, and so the next morning, I opened the bathroom door to Barfville.  It. was. terrible.  DON'T LET IT DRY YET!

INSTEAD:  Make a hot, huge bath.  We sprinkled baking soda all over the seat, poured vinegar directly onto the seat, reclined the seat as much as possible to get as much of the seat part clean, and then ran the tub as full as we could with very hot water.  This loosened up so much gunk it was embarrassing.  I shook the seat a little to loosen more stuff.  Blegh.  Just let that baby sit.  We let it sit until the water cooled.

Step 6:

Drain the water- wipe down the seat as you do or some chunks will get stuck.

Step 7:

Not gonna lie, we soaked again in a vinegar bath for good measure.  We tipped the seat upside down so things could float out in the water- so gross, people, SO GROSS.

Step 8:

Shower it off, just to be sure you've released as much as possible.

Step 9:

Turn the seat upside down in the tub, and let it dry.  Do not leave it upright, it will not drain properly.

Step 10:

When seat is totally dry.... put your foam back on, your cover back on, and install according to your manufacturer's directions!

Enjoy your clean, fresh seat.  I am so, so happy we did this!

Free yourself, Mama

Free yourselves, moms.  Let go of your preconceived notions of what a "good" mom is, and be the wonderful mom that YOU ARE.  You are enough, Mama.  You are actually, MORE than enough.

Let the kid cry.  You are his Mama, you've already checked his vitals (diaper, fever, hungry, thirsty).  He will be okay.  Accept that you cannot be the only source of joy and fulfillment for your children.  Accept that we cannot control them.  Accept that, no matter what other moms tell you about letting your kid cry (sometimes.... I don't mean the screaming all day, or leaving a new baby for hours in the night, I can't handle that shit) that at times, there is nothing else.  Your tank is empty, your magic bag of tricks is depleted, and you just don't have the answer.  Let the kid cry- because if you try for hours on end to make him shut it, you're going to turn into that mom that you don't want to be.  The yeller.  The screamer.  The thrower.  The monster.  So let it go, let the expectation that your kids will always be soothe-able- GO.

Let them make the mess.  My son has this thing for ripping every book from our bookshelves. Every. freaking. day.  It grates my gears, and often makes me want to explode.  He doesn't even sit and look at them.  The kiddo pulls them out, to stand on them, to kick them, and just to make the biggest ridiculous mess he can.  When I sit to read to him, he just closes my fingers in the books, um.... OUCH.  Bedtime he loves stories.  Daytime, he will take THEM on an adventure, and show THOSE books who is boss.  So. I'm done.  Destroy my house, little people.  Take out every stinkin thing you have, and be proud.  Show those toys who is boss.  And mom.  Let. it. go.  You can clean them up- and hopefully you have a partner to help you out.  And heck, if your kids are big enough to help, make them.

Let them be little, like that Billy Dean song.  Kids all grow and change at difference paces, let it go, and let them be the little person they are.  (Of course if there are medical interventions needed, duh, do that.)  My son is talking later than I'd like- but I KNOW he is fine.  I can beat myself up and say that it is because I didn't read him enough stories, or I sometimes just wanted a quiet house so when it was just he and I, that is what we had.  I'm still a great mom, because I taught him other things in those moments like enjoying the quiet and stillness, independent play, and exploring his world.  I am so lucky to have my kids, and they're lucky to have me.

My children are loved.  My children are clothed.  My children are fed.  My children have opportunities.  My children are well cared for.  I am enough, I have done enough, you are enough, and you have done enough.

We can all try to be perfect moms, or, we can accept that we're imperfect moms raising imperfect little people.  And we're all going to be okay, if we'd just stop making everyone feel like we're not going to be okay.

Love to you, Mamas.

Internet Identities

So awhile ago I read an article about what to post on social media and what not to.

I'm finally going to say it.

What you say about your children matters.

What you say to your friends about them counts.  What you say to your other children about them matters.  What you say to your parents, to your neighbors.  What you say online about your kids, matters.

We have all had that day where little Lacey ramped us up a wall and we raged about it on facebook.  Ok, well maybe not everyone.  You could be like my mom who uses it only to keep up and never post, and that's okay too.  This is one less thing for you to worry about.  But for those of us who might word vomit on facebook- I want you to pay attention.

What internet identity are you giving your children?  Who are you telling people your kids are?  Because I can tell you right now, I do not want to babysit half of my facebook friends' children because either A- they're a little hellian who was sent here to destroy every life possible or B- they're so perfect I won't like my own kids after I'm around them.

Yes friends.  You do that.  And I can do that.

You make me not like your kids, and then I feel really, REALLY badly about it... and for your kids.

And, you make me not want to be around your kids, because they're so damned near perfect how could me or mine possibly measure up?

Cut. the. shit.

Some day our kids will have online accounts and unlimited access to internet- or at least access where you won't watch literally every move they make.  How will they view themselves after they read the things we have written about them?  I know that day in, day out matters most, so please don't get me wrong- but these little things count, too.  I won't put something on facebook that I wouldn't write in my child's baby book. And whether or not facebook is your medium of choice, it is about the habit that is the problem.  Let's make our children's internet identities positive, but not perfect, silly but not mean.

But I hate these kinds of posts, don't do this.  But do that.  I'm not better than you, I am convicted of different things than you.  And it is so apparent to my heart.  The words I speak to my children matter.  My daughter cannot go to sleep until I have whispered into her tiny ear, "You are my favorite girl in the whole wide world."  I'm not trying to toot my own horn, I'm trying to live differently for myself.  I'm trying to shut the mouth of the cynic in my head and only speak love to and about my children.  (And yes... I think overly making them perfect is not love.)

So friends, I challenge you- what internet identity are your giving your kids?  Where is your heart?  Who do you want to set your children up to be on the internet?  Moms, dads, I think it starts here- right now, who is your child to you?  Make them that- to the world.  (But.... let's not pretend their perfect.... k?)

Best Christmas Gifts for Kids Under 5

When I have to purchase gifts for other kids or even my own, I get sweaty palms, my stomach usually hurts and my brow is furrowed.  Pathetic?  YUP.  Pretty normal?  Yup.  It really makes me anxious to pick "just the right thing" because I feel frustrated to spend money that isn't appreciated, and I don't mean the "Thank you so much for buying my kid SOMETHING," appreciation, I mean the holy sh*t, that occupied my child's attention for at least thirty minutes-appreciation.  When you have children- this is a godsend.

Here are my ideas for the best gifts so far- and yes- we are SO grateful for every gift ever given to our children, these are the ones that might be a little more hidden in stores.... or only online, or just something so freaking new those of us over 25 don't even know what it is, like a YOLO.  What is a YOLO?  (I kid, I get it- because I GOOGLED it.  Hangs head in shame.)

So here's my deal- my kids can play with ride on toys inside our home, we have beautiful cabinets and nice floors- but we're just careful.  My son is a bull in a china shop- seriously, trust me.  If it can break, he already broke it.  The only trick I have is to check all wheels before they come into the house- be sure they're free of stones and your floors should stay pretty nice.

So if you're looking for the best gift for a kid, maybe you'll find something here.  These are just my suggestions, based on my limited experience- and I'll add to this list if I find more things, because I know you care SO MUCH.


Active Play Under $50/over $25:
- Super Skipper- 3.5 years+ active indoor or out (My 3.5 year old cannot do this how it is intended just yet- but she LOVES trying and it is hilarious to watch her play)
- Ride on Scuttlebug- walking+ active indoor (if you don't mind toys like this inside- we sure don't!) or outdoor (Our son is a large 1.5 year old and he thinks this is the best ride on toy in our home, his almost 3 year old cousin, who is smaller than him, wouldn't get off of it!)
- Play Vacuum 1 year +, Not really active, but my kids do run around with this thing like they're on a new "Supermarket Sweep" or something.  It is an annoying noise, but it makes them so, so happy.
- Scooter 1 or Scooter 2 3 years +, these scooters offer different experiences to the rider, the first is for a more advanced child, while the 2 is probably better for a younger child.  We don't own either of these, but my daughter is always borrowing her friends' when we're out.  One is definitely on her birthday list this year for the big FOUR!

*$100 Trampoline This is the most played with toy for all kids 1.5 years and up at my home.

Active Play Under $25
- Grow With Me Rollerskates- 3 years+ indoor or outdoor play- Our daughter refused to take these off on Christmas morning.  The 3 different settings that lock certain wheels truly helps teach children how to roller skate.)
- Bilibo Seat- 1.5 years +, although younger kids could enjoy this, I feel 1.5 is the youngest to really purchase this for.  This toy encourages imagination- is it a turtle shell? seat? sled? bucket? chair? stool? caterpillar (when put with others)?
- Costumes- think capes, princesses, doctors, construction worker, artist...
- Stomp Rocket 3 years+ The little lady at our house gets a kick out of this in the yard with her daddy- they often misplace the arrows in neighbors yards as they play, but it just adds to the time they share together, pretty fun toy!


Quiet Play Under $50/over $25:

- Go Go Smart Wheels- 2 years-4 years (my guess), Our son is very intrigued by this toy, espeically the train that runs on its own.  He loved watching it go on the track, and the older kids all helped put it together at Christmas.  Although our son tends to just destroy train tracks, this held his attention for 30 minutes before we moved on to something else after breaking apart the track.  I'd suggest purchasing a few more cars to make it more fun, too, but that will take you over $50.
- Ball Popper- 1 year + Although this is not really quiet, it gives mom a few minutes.  My kids LOVE this toy, and I love that I can use ping pong balls after I've lost all of the ones that go with it.


Quiet Play Under $25:
- Magnetic Mosaics- 3 years+ quiet time play (My 3.5 year old loves this toy, we bring it to places she needs to sit and play quietly, I consider this educational as it is matching colors to numbers using a "legend/key."  A sweet memory is now attached to this toy as we bonded with a distant 4 yr old cousin and great grandma over this the first time we met.)
- Kinetic Sand- 3 years+ quiet time play.  This magical sand is so fun- and a winner at our house as it held our daughter's attention for 1.5 hours- no getting up, no fidgeting, no asking for anything.  I set her up at the kitchen table with play dough toys, and she had to be pried away.  No, really.  She played again with it for over an hour the next day until her little brother tried to eat it, yup, that happened.  *I'm intrigued by Shape It! Sand- this does not "move" as you play with it, and it can get wet and not have to dry out to be played with- might work well in an outdoor play bin.
- Barbie Shoes and a Barbie Tackle Box- 3 years +, My three year old could play for hours just taking Barbie's shoes on and off- and to get a plethora of the shoes- ow baby!
- Barbie- 3 years +, As soon as our daughter turned three, her fascination with Barbie began, and I don't mind one bit.  She is creative and I hear more of what's going on in her little mind by listening to her play with her Barbies and have them talk to one another.  The little sister barbies are great, too!
- Dump Truck 1 year +, Our son loves this truck.  It is big enough to tote around other small toys and crash all over the house leaving walking hazards for the whole family.  It seems to be built well- and I appreciate that it is USA made of recycled plastics!
- Airplane 1 year +, We wanted something that wasn't a car for our son, finally!  This airplane is fine, nothing special, just different!
- Snap Together Minnie- 2.5 years + Our daughter loves to dress and undress her barbies, but sometimes I get sick of helping. This toy is just right for her, and when stored in a cute metal lunch box, it can go anywhere with us!  We're temped to leave it in the car for those random trips places that aren't kid friendly.  It is a very simple toy, but great for fine motor skills and allowing her imagination to soar.
- See and Spell Puzzle- 3 years + This toy has been played with over and over at our house when I need some quiet time on the phone with Comcast (duh.... that's at least a 45 minute conversation).
- Tea Set 3 years optimal, with a working tea set (we use water) a little girl can get lost playing this for hours.  Her little brother might, too.  And although towels better be on the stand by- it is so worth the time they share!  You can even find little measuring sets, too!
- Small Markers, Twistable Crayons, and stickers!  Age 2 + they all seem to love artsy stuff, and these are the best markers, crayons you can get for them!  The amount of stickers stuck to my floors because I don't have long enough nails to pick them off is embarrassing.  Don't judge.  Again, this affords me time to throw in a load of laundry, put away a load of laundry for the love of Pete, or maybe even take a quick shower.
- Bath Toys, and more bath toys, and more bath toys 6 months+ Kids love bath time, and toys make it better- but healthy toys make it rock.  Most toys grow mold inside- these can be opened and cleaned- that is so rare, people.  Pay attention, don't buy sh*t for your family and friends.
- Backpack 2.5 + Every kid likes a place to put their things, backpacks are wonderful!  We no longer carry diaper bags, because our kids have backpacks with what they need in them.  Pottery Barn Kids, LL Bean and Lands End all have great backpacks that are wonderful quality.  You can usually find these on sale $25 or under.


And that's about it... for now.... or at least what my post-Christmas-madness brain can remember.

Introducing Owen

Life with two is incredible. fascinating. joy filled. difficult. blessed. challenging. full. organized chaos. perfect.

Owen was born on March 4 this year, he is such a dreamy baby. And I say that meaning both in personality and the fact that the kid cannot stay awake for more than about 6 hours a day total, he is such a love. I want to be sure to document what life is like with this new little addition, because it is SO different than before he was here, but it is true, I don't remember what I used to do before he was here!

The first few weeks are clearly blurry- recovering from my second cesarean went better than planned, until I totally overdid it by walking about 3/4 mile with the kids in tow and I ripped a few stitches, whops. From what I do remember, there was lots of poop, peeing on me, peeing on the counter, peeing on clothes, shrieking at peeing, sore nipples from the most shallow latch ever (nope, not tongue tied, darn), smiles, sleepy time, snuggles, kisses and so much love. Brooke has been fabulous with Owen from the get go, I am blessed. Although she was only 20.5 months old when we brought him home, she was as gentle as a 20 month old could be, as quiet as she is capable of being (which is not quiet at all, pretty much as quiet as dropping 5 pots and pans on the floor- with lids) and mesmerized. It is still my favorite to remember mornings with Lyn. Daddy got up with her while I waited for Owen to stir, I'd listen to them sit on the potty, make breakfast and destroy my perfectly clean house. (I was a slave driver when we got home, we were NOT going to let the house get out of control so every night at bedtime, we'd clean everything to "perfection.") When Owen was finally awake for a feeding I'd walk down the hall and step on the gate, Brooke squealed with delight every day, "Baby?! Baby!" It was her Groundhog Day, every day... and I promise, she still gets just as excited, 5 weeks and 2 days later. But now, she remembers he is coming out of that bedroom at some point and searches for him if he is still sleeping when she is first awake. She loves her little brother, and I could not be happier.

Owen has been a dream- he eats, sleeps, and is up and wide awake for small portions of the day. So, adjusting to two hasn't been all that bad. There are elements that are killer- but since he is so content, it pretty much is as perfect as I think I could have imagined- and yes, I have had 2 screaming at the same time. At week 3 (when I hurt myself) I had finally felt as though I could do this, handle this, and it was definitely not "that bad." Queue ripped stitches and I fell back a week. So week 4 was really when I said to myself, "This really is working out, it is so not that bad, I can do this! I cannot wait to do this again!" Queue Jon scheduling a vasectomy, just kidding. :) I hope we have more babies- and he does too, just not this instant.

My current days are pretty crazy, but I love them so, so much! We're still doing a quiet time with Brooke in the morning and I would recommend it to anyone looking at having kids. Some days she sleeps (and I make sure it is for no more than 30 minutes) and other days she just plays in her bed or screams and sings. Either way, it allows me 1- a shower if Owen is napping, 2- a moment to clean up something she has destroyed :), 3- get a handle on one chore for the day. And that, my friends, means a successful day. Owen is awake most in the mornings and evenings, he will do about 1.5 hours of wakefulness and then nap, another hour of wakefulness and then wake only to eat and pass back out. I try to get him in his bed when he acts tired, so I am not caught holding him (or starting bad habits) and unable to care for Brooklyn the best way I can. I talk to my mom every morning while Brooke runs around the house, she is a very independent player and I have to force myself to play with her, she would be content to play all day by herself pretty much. As long as she has her snack and drink of course. We're also trying to be outside more since it has been nicer, and that is fantastic. The yard is fenced, as is the deck, so often I just open the back door and let Brooke and Harley run about on the deck. After I let Brooke up and we've done something (reading, puzzles, building with mega bloks) we start lunch and Owen is usually kind enough to let me eat a full meal. Then it is more play time before naps. I try to do one "brain" thing with Brooke a day where we build, read, or do puzzles, so no matter when we can squeeze it in, we do. Then it is nap time until just about when daddy gets home. I clean the house when Brooke naps- except for the early days when Owen decided to be awake from 115-315 (beginning of nap time, booger!) But now that he is older, he is settling down and I am getting an even better handle on the house.

Jon and I are communicating at an all time high I think, which is a beautiful thing. We are finding systems that work for having 2 kids- which are different than having one. I'm on Owen duty, he has Brooklyn. He tries to play with her outside or take her on a bike ride every day when he gets home and Owen and I rest. Now that I'm not nearly as exhausted, because yes... I'm spoiled and have been getting at least 4 hour stretches pretty much forever... and 5 hours for at least the past 2 weeks, and if my brain is remembering correctly... over 6 hours last night, I try to do a chore that is hard to do when Brooke is around. We eat dinner, Brooke gets a bath, we play and watch Big Bang Theory and read lots of stories before bed. I've missed bedtime for a long time now, which makes me sad, Owen needs to eat at bedtime almost every night, but I know I'll be in there helping again soon. :) My hands are very full, I am very busy, but my heart is more so full, and I like being busy. I think I'll write more about my systems with 2, because it is pretty great :) but I did not eat a good lunch today because I just didn't want anything, so I'm starving, and my kids will be up soon.

*This post was not entertaining in the least, but more so to be sure Owen does not feel undocumented :)*

My little OJ

My life.

I never thought I'd pick another person's boogers,
I never shared a blanket all night long.
I never imagined singing the same song on repeat for hours on end.
I never realized how little sleep I need.
I never held the power to calm someone's tears and fears,
until you came into my life.

I told myself I had to stop being afraid of the dark when you got here, baby girl, but I just can't promise you that it isn't scary,
and I can't promise you that there are not monsters in the closet or an alligator under your bed,
because I kind of think there are some in my room, too.
But we can just snuggle together, because when we do, they don't seem to bother me at all.

My baby is 11 months old. What an amazing almost year it has been. What a treasure, a gift. Lord, I pray I have done well mothering her and raising her well. My sweet baby B-lyn.

Missing and loving

I miss late night feedings, but I love sleeping all night.

I miss snuggling in bed, but I love wrestling and tossing you into the blankets.

I miss sleeping all day together, but I love playing more.

I miss non-smelly poops, but it is nice to share mealtime with you.

I miss having a clean house, but I love that you are the reason for my messes.

I miss having you in my bedroom, but I love that you are independent.

I haven't missed out on many moments.

I absolutely love the little girl you are becoming.

Where we're at.

Lately Brooklyn,

- has shown a true liking to yogurt, full body flail (that others may consider a medical condition) of excitement as soon as she sees her special cups.
- can be seen with a puzzle piece sticking out of her mouth, she particularly enjoys the farm board puzzle from her big cousins with huge knobs that she plops in her mouth and sucks on throughout the day- I get to stare at cardboard brown cutouts in front of her cut little face.
- tips over backwards to drink out of her sippy cups (Avent are my favorite, no leaking so far, and easiest for her to drink now that she figured out how to suck them! And my SIL just informed me that the tops are inter-changeable with the bottles- too bad I didn't use those! Geez Louise! :) The things you learn LATER! :) Then again... I only have bottles that came with my pump...)
- pulls my pants down on a continuous basis, to the point that if shorts season doesn't get here fast... we're going to have a problem. She loves to stand while I cook or do dishes and pulls on my pants to get up, then they both end up on the floor! (In fact... she just pulled them down to my knees, thank you for that love.
- tries to grab on to the back of pants to follow behind, she loves "walking" like this- cracks me up every time!
- has yet to open a cabinet (thank God for quiet close because even my 2 year old nephew can't open them! :) For those of you who have been to my house... you know it will be a problem when she has the curiosity for, "What is behind door A?" since there is no way to block cabinets in a small house with a great room... :)
- will finally eat avocados, she just needed a little lime, miss fancy pants- she gets it from Aunt H. :)
- calls me Mama, and daddy Dada and Papa (last night... or was she calling for her grandpa? Hmmm...)
- If she hears "hello," in a song, from a toy, others speaking, she waves looking for who came in- seriously a-friggin-dorable.
- she has another little girl cousin due in less than 2 weeks (my cousin's baby) and another girl cousin due in August (my other cousin's baby) and we cannot wait to love on those little bundles.... by poking eyes, pulling fingers, and most likely sitting on. (Don't worry- I won't be doing those things....)

Life is good, and I am enjoying every single moment.

Iron sharpens Iron, so will a child sharpen her Mama.

I can't be the only mom in the world who is changing, growing, and challenging herself as a woman every day.

I am a young-ish mom- and I never had thought about what that might mean for my family. It might mean that I have less life experience, that I haven't been out to see the world, and so perhaps, I might not know how to best culturize my children. (Yes... I made that word up, you probably won't want to re-use it).

But I am an old soul- a watcher, a thinker, and mostly a what would I do-er.

I have been an aunt for almost half of my life... that is scary... oh my word.... holy crap. I have watched my brother's parent their children. I have babysat for many families, and one daily for years. I have younger cousins. I attend a church where families are abundant. I have been close to others with young children. I have watched, I have listened, and I believe I have held experiences in my heart.

So, surely, I might be less than a quarter of a century old (for a few more months at least), but I have lived a full, beautiful life where I believe I have been blessed plentifully with experiences. Those I have read about, watched, and lived. And I try to learn from each one, so I am proud of the mom that I am every day... and some days I know I won't be. (It is kind of easy with a baby... but when we're starting to get in to everything... Dr. Nelly can come out)

My mothering gets better every day- Brooklyn sharpens me into a more beautiful woman of God every day as I am challenged to raise her for the King.

This morning I had a sense of peace as she tipped over my entire purse- I was blending my breakfast (YUM) and not watching her, she grabbed the handle and poof- keys, wallet, receipts (that should just be thrown away anyway), gift cards galore, business cards aplenty, thank goodness I zipped the lotions/body works/lip stuff in that side pocket... and I just giggled at her big, proud smile. "Silly Lyn, look at how clever you are big girl! Momma should have watched you!" I chuckled, she squealed, all was cleaned up in less than 2 minutes, and life went on.

She won't remember this moment. And in 2 years, I may forget... I guess that is why I like to write down my favorite memories. Who cares that she made a small mess, she is a child, she is a baby, she is my love- how can I get angry over that? I should have been watching!

Have you had little moments that have changed you? Experiences where you said, "I will never do that when I have kids," and meant it- even better, LIVED it? Are you quick to anger with your kids (because you're tired, you're done, you're sick of being the entertainer, you just want to be alone)?

Choose a reaction today- close your eyes and create in your head a moment- something that always makes you lose your temper, but this time, change how you respond in your head, seal it over your heart, and commit to that reaction today.

(I read a story on facebook, I think it was, of a friend who had gotten in a small fender bender- they were rear ended, and they were kind, gentle, quick to forgive, and tender with the person who had bumped them- I decided to act this way if that were to happen to my family. And when it did this winter- forgive me if I wrote about it already, I reacted just as I would have wanted to in a dream world. I checked Brooke, who was fussing from the noise we bet, then enveloped this young boy in a hug as tears streamed down his face, "We forgive you, Austin, it is okay." To see the tears turn to a sobby smile melted my heart- I don't think I would have reacted like that 2 years ago.)

Why should we holler, get frustrated, and scowl at others? We could throw in an eye roll, that'd be mature. We could just choose love and kindness... perhaps.

Greetings

A day or two ago on the radio they were discussing greetings- what a powerful 30 seconds we have with our children and spouses, students, and coworkers every day.

"Mornin!"

"You're late."

"Do you have homework?"

"Why did you wear that shirt today?"

"I'm so happy you're here."

"We're running late, let's go."

I think you get the point- I think you already know what I am going to say.

I try to treat my husband like the king when he gets home, because well... he is the king of this castle. I squeal with joy, ramping up the excitement for our 9 month old and dog. Harley slides across the wood floors taking Brooklyn out by the knees, I catch her by the arm and we race to the back door. "Daddy is here!!!"

I hope his heart swells at the sound of our thrills. He whistles behind the door exciting the dog and intriguing our baby- we literally cannot wait for this man to open the basement door.

I kiss him hard when he walks through the door as if to say, "Where have you been all day, my love? How I have missed you!" My hand always lingers on his bicep as he reaches over to snuggle our baby and give her scruffy whisker kisses. Then- the dog licks till her heart is content and we are back to regular business.

I have been chewing on this- I have so many negative feelings towards cell phones and the constant connect-ability we can choose to have with them- often when we enter a lunch date or family time we're "just finishing this up." Then you get the, "sigh, hello." (I don't want to give a sigh hello, I want to give a smile, welcome, hug, a cheer... anything but that!) Jonathan and I are holding out on the smartphone thing (partly because we have no room in our budget but mostly, because I simply hate the idolatry of phones). To see kids sit on their phones at dinner or on a visit, for a mom to not set the phone down for 5 seconds to snuggle her babes who just walked in the house, for a dad whose ear piece is always connected to his head and can't kiss his wife because he is still "working" when he walks in the door- I have to think, are we stewarding these moments well?

Are we showing our spouses, children, and families how important they are through our greetings? (And this is just 30 seconds of our day, there are million other times that I hope we are all showing love to our loves! :) It seems like something so simple, so stupid, so small to just say "Hello," but I think it matters so much.

Believe me, I know that every day is different- the other day I had dinner up to my elbows and Jon just wasn't going to get the loving he usually does when he walks in the door- I think he forgives me. But today- I made sure to love him in those first 5 seconds because it is on my heart. It is important to me.


Is it important to you?

Smooches and Waves

Puckered lips.

"Give Momma a smooch! You can do it!"

plop.

My face is dripping with slobber, my heart is overflowing with love.

She has kissed me before, but tonight it was kiss, after kiss, after kiss- and the loudest, silliest giggles from both of our mouths as she covered mine in hers. This moment will remain frozen in my memory- our best laugh attack, our sweetest moment yet. Oh sweet child of mine- you are the most perfect gift. My lips shook the inside of her mouth making her giggle even more- open mouthed kisses are so gross, when it isn't your kid. I eagerly await the days of real kisses, but for now, if I look a little drooly, I'm just being loved on by one special girl.

Tonight I made a quick trip to the library before bedtime- I got 2 books in (Choosing to See and Startling Beauty) from 2 far away libraries and wanted to get a head start while my dear love played games tonight. When I got home I waved largely to Brookie and she beamed, waving her arm as hard as she could. She came to me falling on her face trying to wave and crawl at the same time. (I wouldn't recommend it.) So precious, so sweet, so wonderfully mine.

Lord thank you for this little girl you have entrusted to me- may I honor this gift every day, may I teach her all that you would have her learn, may I be the best for her always- (in every stage, even when she poops her diaper 5 times a day... and sticks her feet in it).

One year.

One slice.

One tug.

One cut.

One cry.

One voice.

One glance.

One whisper.

One kiss.

One little love.

It was our one year anniversary when the doctor told me it would be very difficult to become pregnant. It was one year from that day exactly, that we delivered our one beautiful daughter.

I still cannot believe that I am the one who holds this child in my arms, I thought it would be years before I met her. This baby whose every smile gives me butterflies in my stomach, this love. This gift that has changed me so very much. I know that every day, I am the best momma I was created to be.

I am gladly not number one in my life anymore, I am proudly not number one for every day. It is my greatest joy to not shower so I can play with my baby, it is an honor to wake up at 5:45 in the morning to feed my love. I wear bags under my eyes with pride some days, spit up is still my perfume. There truly is no other job I was destined for than this.

She will be one year soon, sooner than later, and I can totally believe it! We have had the greatest journeys, the most fun, and I have savored every moment. I'm not sure what it is... but you probably won't hear me say "where did that year go?" Because I'm still in shock that she is here. :)

Oh my one baby... I love you girl.

Twos

I live my life in twos.

I take care of two people every day.
I talk about my daughter's number twos daily.
I make two dinners every night.
I make two breakfasts (and lunches too).
I pump two breasts every night.
I put away the toys twice a day (after nap- in order to give her new toys to play with after nap and before bedtime).
I have two couches, two laptops.
I clothe two people a day.
I dream of having baby number two, whenever that happens.

See? My life is in twos.

But the most important twos I live with every day are the two hour time slots we are still somewhat captive to.

I read a fabulous book, Healthy Sleep Habits Happy Child that my sister-in-law gave me before Brooke was born. (And would completely advise anyone having a baby to read a few sleep books before baby arrives- you will probably be a) too tired to read a book, or b) too frustrated to consider the author's opinions or c) too enraged to even think about what to try next.) One of the key features I read in almost every book is that a child should not be awake for longer than 2 hours, pretty much at any time. I know a lot of people who said, "Not MY baby," oh no, your child is just special and so abnormal that they don't need routine. Only kidding. I know, every child is different- in fact, Brooklyn could barely stay awake past 1.5 hours. But, as a general rule, if you do not put your child to bed (for a nap or bedtime) within 2 hours of the last time they awoke, they will be overtired and you will either think they are a) not tired or b) hungry or c) need you. However- they probably are just overtired- just give it a whirl. We have read that by now (8 months) Brooke should be able to stay awake beyond 2 hours, possibly to 3- well, our baby girl just requires a lot of sleep, and some days she can make it to 3 hours, but her naps usually suffer then, or her mood. Joy.

So, twos it is. We wake up and I have exactly two hours to get whatehaveyou completed. Then we nap. Then I have two more hours to get whatchamahoozit done. Then nap, then we have two more hours to magnificently make memories as a family before bedtime. And if I'm lucky, we will have gotten a lot accomplished. It sounds pretty easy right?

To most non children families, it is almost impossible to NOT get everything done in three, two hours slots, I mean, come on. Maybe this post isn't intended for the every day mom, because right now, if you are a mom, you are probably smiling, nodding, and reminiscing to when twos ruled your life. And if you're not a mom... you probably gave up on me hours ago- and that is fine... I'll just keep going.

Two hours. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. (Awww.... miss my 6th graders). Let's see what happens in those two hours, Monday let's say: Baby wakes up and we lounge until nap time- we never go out before our morning nap because often we are down for our first nap within an hour and a half of waking up (we're delicate in the morning- not crabby, delicate). We nurse for 20 minutes, snuggle, play puzzles, wrestle, eat breakfast, change our diaper, play some more, and take a nap- that, is doable my friends- sometimes I even squeeze in a shower (if she will go in her jumpy) or throw in some laundry. Then when she goes down I have anywhere for one to two hours to shower, throw in some laundry(because you NEVER do laundry before your shower), do my hair, makeup, flip the laundry, clean the bathroom, set out dinner, play with the dog, make the bed, and plan the grocery shopping trip (with coupons) for the week. Then I have exactly 2 hours from that first real cry- GO! 20 minute nursing, 10 minutes to change her, pack her up get in car. 15 minutes for transportation, 45 minutes to shop (less time if going to Wal-Mart- have you STOOD in those lines?), 15 minutes to transport home, and 15 minutes to get everything inside/love on baby girl/feed her solid lunch so she feels like she had a mom in that 2 hour time slot. And she has to be down within 2 hours- or... else... Oh, and you are supposed to look cute while doing these things, just an fyi.

Then we nap... sweet nap. I put away groceries (which may mean breaking up meat into one pound packages or cooking baby food), fold laundry, clean the kitchen, play with the dog, put the toys away and take out a new round, read a little, put away some laundry (if I'm being disciplined) and get ready for daddy to get home.

I know it sounds pretty simple, I know moms complain a lot- I'm really not complaining- I love this life I have chosen and been given. But a lot of my friends just don't get it.

Living in twos is not easy- it means saying "No" to lunch dates, or picking whose house to get stuck at while you try to get your kid to nap there (knowing it'll probably be somewhat of a disaster) so you can hang out with someone other than yourself for a bit, or when you have to wait for something (picture DMV, SS office, Unemployment office) you feel that nervous going to pee your pants feeling because you know the sleepy timer is about to ding and it still isn't your turn and if you had just left the baby with a family member she COULD nap, but WOULD she and what burden would she be on someone else- when life is in twos, it isn't that simple.

Some day we won't live in twos anymore, and I'll miss it, because it can make for a nicely paced day (while we're at home). But- I won't miss feeling like I miss out on things because people just don't understand.

But either way... God, if I have to live my life in twos, bring it on- bring on two more babies, or two times two more in many years to come. I'd gladly live in twos forever if life will be this good.

This girl and her mama

"It's a baby mop, one free with each pregnancy."

Yup- my husband said this weeks ago, on camera, and I almost cried laughing.

I have a very fond memory with my Mama, and my eyes get teary when I think about the amazing woman she is, and what fun we have had together. And I am SO happy that Brooklyn gets to have that fun with her too. We used to hold hands on the tile floor and she would swing me between her legs to the song by Whitney Houston, "I Will Always Love You."

If I had a mother daughter dance at my wedding, that song would have been our melody.

When B was about 7 months old we started swinging, and it brought me back to that moment. Such sweetness! And I do think she loves it just as much as her Mama did when she was little.

We have had such a fun life- with my still toothless babe. (Come ON already, come in teeth! But, the doctor said it is normal to not get any until 12 months too, so we're doing alright!)

Life is wonderful here though, spending lots of time with momma, snuggles on the new carpet in the living room, wrestling with daddy, and sleeping with a blanket and 3 lovies (Ellie, Bunny, and Harley Cub). We are eating lots of foods, she threw up cottage cheese this week, poor kid. I decided not to even bother with foods that Jon and I won't eat (that is if they are a lot of work- you know, squash, pumpkin, we just aren't going to EVER eat that... so why try to get her to like it?). But, there are some easy foods that don't have to be prepared, like yogurt- not so much a fan, but the kid LOVES it! Cottage cheese, another open the tub, scoop, eat. She ate 5 bites, all a go! Then one more bite, gagging, vom- all down her bib, pure cottage cheese. I don't think she was traumatized, but if I see cottage cheese again- I might vom. We did go to meat today, ground turkey that I cut up very finely mixed with potatoes- I think tomorrow we will try to puree it with the potatoes and peas, almost like a baby shepherd's pie... we'll see. She ate maybe 5 bites of the turkey mixture, pureeing might be best... for her. Me on the other hand- thank GOD we are not pregnant yet... or I WOULD vom.

My bf and I chatted the other day when she came over for lunch- some days I feel like, "What do I do with this kid?" I can only hand her toys so often, play airplane... it's okay to just let her play right? I mean seriously, she loves to just crawl around, investigate, chew everything, and stand up whenever possible. Even if it means flipping things into her face- OUCH. The bridge of her little nose is red- and I feel horrible... but that is life. Oh little babes...

Just checking if any of you have heard this song- my new love melody to Brookie, when she banged her face I just sang and sang to her until she relaxed and just nuzzled into my neck. Oh my sweet 8 month old... how big you are!! I love it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QylzF-nGwpM

And THAT is my random post... because I just don't have much to say! :)

Serving

When I remember back to high school (It was OH so long ago... almost 6 years, THAT is weird) there was a time in youth ministry that we all learned about serving one another. I don't remember the scripture we had studied, or who spoke on it, (but let's be honest, it was probably Tom,) but I do remember the acts that followed this particular lesson. Helping one another, lifting one another up, being comforters, friends, and cheerleaders for each other.

Doesn't it sound so great to have a community around you cheering? To have friends who pick you up when you are down, who care for you when you are sick, who take care of business when you cannot? To have people praying for you daily? Well- I think that sounds awesome.

In high school it was really little things:
-Can I plan the songs this week for youth group?
-Can I pray with you about your finals?
-Can I take you to _____ since you don't have your license yet?

You know, those things, and a lot of the time, really, I don't think as many opportunities to serve were taken as should have been.

I see it this way. We are all pretty self sufficient people (or like to think we are) and we know that we can take care of things (even if it might take us two hours longer than if we had help). But- with that- we are all selfish people, too.

Stay with me here, aren't we selfish to get the glory for doing things, to be noticed for working hard (although I know this isn't the perfect example, but I think it can count in some circumstances), or to be felt sorry for that you have done sooooooo much?

I know that when I was working three jobs and pregnant it did make me feel good for my husband to praise my efforts, to notice that I was kicking my tail knowing my teaching job was going to be gone the next year. But- it became such an obsession at times that I would take on more because I liked hearing his praises, and instead of allowing him to take some of my other burdens (such as laundry, making dinner, doing dishes, etc.) I packed that on too, because it made me look good. "Wow, she works so hard." But wasn't that out of selfishness? Uh... pretty sure that's a positive Ghost Rider.

In those youth group days our leaders told us that sometimes we would have to purposefully allow people to serve us. Yes, you are capable, but does that mean you should/have to do it? (But... there are some people who have become very good at being "served" and I want to kick them in the face, you know, those who never work, or whose homes are trashed and a group comes, cleans it up, and the next week it is completely in disarray again? I think sometimes we can be taken advantage of.)

But specifically I remember a conversation with a friend, "Let me do this for you, let me serve you."

We are called to serve others as Jesus did.

I love the story about washing the disciples feet in John chapter 13. There is so much to this passage, but tonight, I am focusing on the fact that Jesus took the role of a servant, and cleaned the dusty feet of His followers. Some protested, but He explained that He had to do it anyway.

Do you protest to people serving you? I do- because I know I can do it on my own. But this so easily creeps into other areas of our lives too- I can do salvation on my own, I can do forgiveness on my own, I can do life on my own, and God then has no place. People offer to carry a diaper bag, but I got it. Or to hold my baby while I do something else, but I can do it one handed.

This Sunday I was sick, very very sick, and I let my husband serve me (that doesn't seem to be difficult, except for when he doesn't do what I want done when I want it done). A good friend of mine repeatedly asked how she could help me, and although I lay in bed for hours, I told her nothing, that we were fine. Last night, as I pondered those days back in high school and allowing others to serve you, I replied to a simple text that I could use her help the next day.

In serving me, my sweet friend also helped me to serve my sister-in-law who is recovering from delivering my adorably sweet nephew. Because I remembered back to some Snow Blast, the ball of service is rolling. And I'm hoping to serve my sick friend this week, and my other friends in months to come.

As a mom, there is a lot to think about here- how do I teach Brooklyn to serve others and be served, but not to take advantage/be taken advantage of? Or, do I leave that up to God? I hope she will see her dad and I serving people in more ways than bringing meals, moving furniture, or doing laundry. (Although seriously, isn't is AWESOME when someone does your laundry? Uh- ya, and puts it away... in the right places!)

Serving others is so simple, but it is finding those who will let themselves be served. As a mom and wife, I serve my husband and daughter daily, but what if I extended it beyond them? I like to think that I serve my parents when I help do dishes, while they serve me by taking care of Brooke for a bit. Or by purposefully cleaning up the things that we took out while we were over there (particularly having to do with our baby, and YES, I did call to apologize to my mom for not putting Brooke's bad back in the spare room on Saturday.) Have you chosen to be served? How can we serve others this week?

(I'm thinking we won't be serving the neighbors with shoveling.... because they all have snow blowers... but we'd gladly be served... not that I KNOW my neighbors really.... :)

Delicious Enchiladas

Jon and I hate enchiladas, just ask my mom, I would skip dinner instead of eating the disgusting casserole in a tortilla- until now.

I created these bad babies a few years ago, and felt the urge to eat them again this week:


6 tortillas
1 large chicken breast (Like really, the big ones)
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cans enchilada mild sauce
1 can original rotel (or mild, if you have baby taste buds)
1/2 bag shredded three cheddar/mexican cheese/colby jack (whathaveyou)
1 large can refried beans

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Cook chicken breast (we cooked ours in chicken bullion in the slow cooker, about 1 hour so it could easily by shredded, could easily be set early in the day). Shred chicken and place in bowl with taco seasoning, rotel (WITH juices) mix well.

Grease 9 x 13 pan with cooking oil spray.

Smear some refried beans down center of tortilla, sprinkle cheese generously, sprinkle chicken mixture, roll up, place seam of tortilla down in pan, when filled, pour one can of enchilada sauce over all roll ups.

Cook for 30 minutes in oven at 375, sprinkle cheese on the top, and the other can of enchilada sauce (we used half). Cook an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Serve with yummy rice drizzled in lime and salt and sour cream- fab!

I know I know... I normally don't blog THIS kind of stuff, but truly, I lost my recipe cards and had to document somewhere! :)

Competition and Priorities

Jon and I started a new workout program on Monday, and yes, we’re still doing it. (You can pick your jaw up off the floor now… we’ll see how long it lasts.)

There have been many times that I have wanted to try this workout, or this diet, and usually, it starts with a friend. Someone suggests we do something together, and we go for it.

And I fail, EVERY TIME.

See, here is the paradox, if you will. I am competitive, but not with women. I HATE competing with women for anything. I hate one-on-one women’s sports, I hate “Biggest Loser” women groups, I hate job interviews when other women are there. Maybe I’m intimidated, maybe I think women take things too personally (ahem), I just think it is silly to compete with friends, so I just choose not to.

I like to compete against men, feelings don’t get hurt, it doesn’t get personal, and who cares! I will wrestle any man, and gladly lose. I will diet with a group of guys (and even let them know my weight because really… they don’t care anyway) and be blown out of the water. I will show any man up on an interview (hehe).

I don’t like playing whose what is better or try to convince everyone that my ____ is the best. But if someone challenges something that I am very passionate about, I will certainly defend my position whether it be a male or female, (or my brother)- and it is okay if we don’t agree. I like how my friend Liz said it, “We can just choose not to talk about that stuff since us two are passionate this way, and you two are passionate that way.” Nice friend, nice.

In the bible study I am doing right now with other mothers we are talking about parenting (shocking). We have discussed what we need to give our kids- things like a secure love, a strong hope, a significant purpose, the freedom to be different, and on and on. THIS, my friends, is something I am passionate about, THIS is something that I believe in- 'raising our children the way that God raises us.' This is a priority, for our family.

Which got me to thinking… Priorities. I remember in high school we had an activity where we had to list out where we wanted to be in 10 years- sort of a priority list for a 16 year old. You know, married, a good job, a nice home, a few kids, an education, etc. And then I thought- how do we make these priorities happen?



Priorities can screw up just about anything can't they? They ruin friendships, they can break up couples, and they can be the demise of a family. (No, this is not a law, this is my idea… but I don’t feel like saying I think… before every phrase, just saying.) You know, if one friend prioritizes another friend, poof, first friend is gone. Or if a boyfriend prioritizes sleep over growing in faith, one woman may walk away. What if mom's priorities are to make money and have a big house, and dad's are to spend time with the family and play over working- will either get what they want- probably not, and someone will walk away.

All of these systems can easily break down when people have different priorities: activities, people, family, religion, clubs, work, hobbies. What order we put these into can make a huge difference in our lives.

Jon and I spoke a lot before we got married about what was more important to us, if you will. What a journey we have been on these past almost 6 years, but our priorities have stayed constant.

We never had the dream of a castle, or fancy cars, or lots of money. It really just is not in our character. We had big dreams to us, a large family, a comfortable home with just enough space, and jobs that we loved, regardless of what they were. That means that we live differently, and a lot of the time, we just don’t fit in, and that is hard sometimes- but we know that the choices that we are making, are glorifying to God. (AND- in no way am I saying that when people live in castles, or have fancy cars, or lots of money are they NOT glorifying God- we just don't do it that way.)

I’m thinking tonight about what Jon and I do prioritize, and I think it goes something like this, but not perfectly. Family comes first- and this can be really hard. A lot of the time, it means not going out like we’d like (well, really we DO like being home!), because our family needs to be home for bedtime, and our family needs to make money the way that we can and that means that mom has to work at night sometimes, and dad has to take care of Brooke. We prioritize faith- church, studying the bible, loving on others, praying. Time together- oh my heart swells from this. It may seem crazy, but I go mad every day that Jon is away at work, I love the man with all of my being and my heart yearns for him when he is gone- when he is home sometimes we just sit together and do nothing, and I hope our family will spend a lot of time “doing nothing.” My being a stay-at-home mom has been another huge priority for us- a majorly sacrificial priority. We made choices in our early life together of saving with specific goals in mind, and we were able to meet those. And then, instead of jumping, we waited for things, and we have certainly reaped the benefits of that- but we easily could have not. We chose a modest home, in a modest neighborhood, with what we wanted: within 15 minutes of family, 3 bedrooms, room to expand, good schools, a basement- and NO, we were not willing to sacrifice any of these things because of the “IFs” in life. What IF the market crashes and we simply CANNOT get out? (Yes, we thought this before the major crisis that is our world today- we have some wise family members who have ALWAYS made us think like this.) What IF we have a horrible medical emergency that makes us really poor? What IF Jon loses his job? What IF, what IF, what IF… I could go on and on. I would love to have a 4 bedroom home, with millions of square feet (and a cleaning lady to come with it), but with the priorities that we have, we just don’t HAVE what it takes to have that. Does that make sense?

We don't have the money to have the priority of a BIG house, that is close to family and friends, with room to expand, and good schools. We can have a modest house with all of our non-negotiables.

My being a stay-at-home mom is another priority we had before we knew if we'd be able to have kids, before we knew where we'd live, and before we knew how much money we'd be making. If we had to live in a one bedroom apartment to make that happen, we gladly would have. It is just more important to our family than having a big house, or a nice car. Having our kids in a GOOD school district, not just an okay one, is more important to us than living in that dream home. Living near family is far more important than driving a beautiful new SUV. And so that means we have to make choices- with what we can afford! We could have bought a beautiful home- in KENTUCKY… or even Boofoo, Illinois, which maybe isn’t that far to some families. But, it is not close enough for us.

I’m not saying that you should change your priorities or that if you choose to live in Boofoo that you are wrong, please don’t think that.-- I’m just talking to myself here about my family- and considering my husband doesn’t really read this often… and Brooke can’t work a computer… I don’t expect anyone else to agree with me. (And yes, living close to friends is a priority of ours too, but it doesn’t seem many are rooted yet in where they are going to be… so we’re planted, like REALLY planted… where will you be friends?! :) )

How on earth did I get from working out to my families desires for our life? Simple- Jon and I are working out together, not with anyone else competing(women! Hehe)… ya… I dunno either! :) But- if we’re always competing with others about what we have and who we are becoming, I think that it becomes the whose _________ is better.

And clearly, our plans are best. :) Just kidding!

I’m wondering, what are your priorities? What drives your family? What are you willing to sacrifice, and what isn’t worth it? Who are your priorities made for? How do you plan to get there?

Baby I'm amazed by you.

I started dating my husband in 2005.

I got engaged in 2007.

I got married in 2008.

I found out I was pregnant in 2009.

I became a mother in 2010.

I know that 2011 will hold many wonderful adventures for my sweet family. I cannot wait to see where we end up, what we're doing, and who is along for the ride.

I'm sitting here chuckling to myself thinking over the past few weeks and all that Lyn has done. On Christmas Eve morning I set her down and she began crying out, "Ma ma, ma ma mom!" Um... seriously? Sometimes I beat myself up for Brooke not crawling yet, or whatever... I know, don't worry, I tell myself to shut up. (But, she is army crawling, and it is PRECIOUS) But when that happens, I think about how AMAZING she is... she calls me Mama... and she is only 6 months old. She cries it out when I set her down, or leave the room. Sometimes she just babbles it... but I think she may know that I am Mama. Good brain babes, goooood brain. (And, we did get a "Papa" out of her once, I think Jon was pleased!)

This little girl has such a personality, she is so sweet laying her head on my shoulder, wrapping her arms around my neck and squeezing tight, and being so still for loves. She is friendly, and will let people pass her for hours pretty much, honestly, on Christmas at my mom's, I wasn't quite sure where she was for roughly 2 hours, but I knew she was in hands that love her very much. She was passed down the table, then snuggled with her adoptive Grandma Randall and Papa Steve, and did so well! Oh sweet love, I love who you are becoming!

Right now, we're going through the, "Wait, you're my mom, and I don't think I want to be away from you." However, this has REALLY developed over the past 24 hours or so... and I was away from her for a good 9 of those hours, then with the 8 hours of sleep she did in her bed... she needed some momma love, and I needed her too. My heart aches for her when she is not with me. But, I do know that I need to let her explore the world around her, be loved on by others, and it warms my heart to see that. So, I gladly hand her over to anyone who asks... and even those who don't. :) We're all about sharing this baby love that we have been given.

I just figured I'd update you a little on our lives.... and here are a few tid bits, if you care:

1- We started bananas a few weeks ago, have added in sweet potatoes, along with apples. Tomorrow, we will do carrots. And yes, I am a freak, I make my own baby food, and yes, it is organic, and I LOVE doing it.
2- We have taken to calling our girl Lynie... but usually Brooke and Brooklyn... but seriously, you might think her name is Lynn if you spend a day with me!
3- We bought Brooklyn one Christmas gift, and it was used- and she likes it!
4- We lost our Jeep a few weeks ago, boooo, so, we bought a super sexy wagon from our grandparents, we tried to be a one car family, and it DID work, I cannot lie. However, after debating the fact that some days I will have to take Daddy to work, Brooke would then be screwed up on naps, and honestly, we value sleep more than money. Oh Money.... I could go on and on and on... money is evil, and we will not be slaves to it. We also put Brooke in her big girl car seat in this car, she likes that she can see around, however, she is not thrilled with the in and out, and I do not blame her.
5- We have vaccinated Brooklyn a little bit, but after how lethargic she was from her last Pertussis vaccine, we aren't sure if we will do that second one in a few weeks, we are blessed to have a very traditional doctor, who loves to converse with us about these choices, along with help us make the best choices for us.

And that is all for tonight... because I'm pooped!