We Owe How Much?!?

Goodbye Naps?!

2012-01-21T09:59:00.001-06:00

Well, for quite a while Bekah hasn't been a big naptime sleeper.

NO we're NOT giving up naptime - even if she doesn't sleep we all need a little quiet time...

Yesterday she fell asleep right away - it was 2pm (an hour later than normal)
and she
S L E P T
for over two beautifully quiet hours (Sofie was sleeping too! SUCCESS!!! I got 18 things listed on eBay during that time! Hurray!!!)

But...

Perhaps that nap was a bit too much for my big three year old (going on thirteen)

Since it took her from 8pm-9:45pm to fall asleep for bedtime (when it usually takes less than a half hour...)

Oy.

So, if she does fall asleep at naptime, she probably is tired and needs a nap, right? Do I just need to wake her after, say, an hour to help bedtime go better?!? Anyone... Advice is welcome!!!

Sofie the Sweetie!

2012-01-20T21:56:00.004-06:00

Tonight I realized that, while I thought Bekah would try every ounce of patience and energy I could ever muster, really Sofie's going to be my challenge!

She's going to be a B U S Y little girl.

She spent hours today growling, laughing, giggling, chewing, playing, dumping, and repeating...

She absolutely REFUSES to pay any attention to nursing if there is ANYONE or ANYTHING going on ANYWHERE in the house...

I find her doing baby push-ups in her bed after sleeping times. She's getting ready to move... and when she starts - we might be doomed! Bekah's toys will not be safe. Nothing will be safe.

It is so nice to have such happy, carefree girl now after months of wondering if she'd ever stop crying. I just have to remember that when this hyper goofy girl is at her busiest!

Some Bekahisms for your Enjoyment

2012-01-20T13:14:00.005-06:00

It's a snow lizard here today - a very snow stormy day

I'm the mommy. You're the child. Child, come here darling. Now, say yes mommy.

I builded a triangle.

Oh no. Our washer started screaming again (it's actually the dryer and I'd call it a squeak)

Have fun with the baby that's in your tummy (no, I'm not pregnant)

Mommy, when will you have 3 twins in your tummy? Not NOW! Next weekend! (No, I'm not pregnant. No, I don't know what 3 twins means - 3 sets of twins? triples?!)

Sofia Joy

2012-01-18T19:35:00.003-06:00

Time for a little Sofie update:

On Sunday and Tuesday nights this past week she slept through the night! That hasn't happened since before Christmas! We're pretty excited. Maybe someday soon she'll get to move from the pack 'n play in the living room to the crib in the girls' bedroom...

In the last couple of days she's started growling and shaking her head. Both of these little tricks are hilarious and super hard to catch on video!

Today she was leaning over her highchair towards Bekah's sandwich at lunchtime - when I noticed what she was doing she had almost snagged a bite!

The other day she actually did grab a bit of Bekah's sandwich - it seems she's not allergic to peanuts... at least the small bit of peanut butter she got into her mouth before I got the bread away from her

She is a super happy giggly baby now. After about 6 longs months of crankies it's so fun to have her so happy.

When she's happy she kicks her feet. Now she's added flapping her arms to the mix.

She thinks just about anything she does, Bekah does or Starbuck does is absolutely hilarious.

She loves to sit and play with toys. Today she dumped out the toybox - numerous times.

She loves to eat - there's only been one baby food she DIDN'T like - green beans. Yesterday she really didn't like trying that new one - after a few bites she started gagging on each spoonful! She loved peas but they didn't love her, same with anything to do with apple juice. She likes squash, sweet potatoes, prunes, cereal (made with breastmilk, juice, or water - and today adding flaxseeds went well) and baby puffs. She also loves her sippy cup and will drink breastmilk from it (she's not a fan of a bottle so this is HUGE!)

She's transitioning into 6-9M clothing and size 3 diapers. She's finally got some decent fat on her body - her cheeks haven't ever been lacking :)

My Little Ladies

2012-01-10T14:31:00.005-06:00

Bekah and Sofie are doing well. So are mommy, daddy and Starbuck :)

I thought I'd share a little information here - even though I find most of my family and close friends can follow our lives via Facebook, I should keep up here too! I guess having 2 little ones keeps me plenty busy, even if I do have a laptop now!

We had a great Christmas at Mike's family's with all the relatives. Most of my family came to our place for New Year's. Now it's back to normal... except for the fact that this IA winter is nothing near normal - right now it's over 60 degrees outside. Ridiculous! I've never enjoyed a coatless day in January. I've done it many times, but enjoyed it? I don't think so! I even ran barefooted to the garage freezer the other day - crazy!!!
This afternoon Bekah was upset that I told her to go potty and get ready for her nap. I overheard her saying "I don't want these options. I don't like these choices." Oh little girl, it won't get any easier as life goes on...

Sofie is growing - she still likes to eat 1x during the night, we're working on it. She sleeps in the pack 'n play in the living room since her nighttime wakings were too much for Bekah. Hopefully we can fix that sooner or later... She's a much happier baby now. She has three teeth and is usually pretty content as long as she can see mommy or Bekah.

A Sound Among the Trees - A Book Review

2012-01-10T13:42:00.003-06:00

A Sound Among the Trees
A Novel
By Susan Meissner

I LOVED this book. It was full of enough intrigue (are there ghosts? is everyone crazy?) and history to really keep my attention through the entire book.

I do enjoy Christian Fiction - Romantic/Historical/Amish... I like the fact that these types of books are easy to read, clean, and often believable. "A Sound Among the Trees" was the first Romantic/Contemporary/Historical Fiction book I believe I've read in a long time that was all of these things.

Way to go Susan Meissner, I really enjoyed this book!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

The Stats

2011-11-29T13:23:00.002-06:00

Bekah
30.2lb (50%)
37in (50%)
BP 96/52 - and how cute is the tiny little BP cuff they use?!

Sofie
14lb 12oz (25%)
26in (50%)
42.5cm head (50%)

Everyone is doing well, growing right on track!

Way too long...

2011-11-28T22:28:00.003-06:00

I can't really figure out where the time went... or where my blogging topics went...

Somewhere around the end of May everything in my life changed... Probably thanks to a sweet little lady I like to call Sof-a-loaf.

We've had a rough six months. Sofie wasn't really a happy camper for the first 4-5 months of her little life. Then, just when she started feeling better, teeth decided to make a visit!

Tomorrow the girls have their 3yr and 6mo check ups. I'll try to remember to post their stats :)

No Wonder They Call Him the Savior, A Review

2011-11-28T21:57:00.005-06:00

No Wonder They Call Him the Savior
Discover Hope in the Unlikeliest Place
Max Lucado

I don't think I've ever read a Max Lucado book before (well, at least not an adult book, my daughter loves his kid's books). I'm not a big non-fiction fan. Reading is a great way for me to relax and usually non-fiction isn't my favorite relaxation technique. I was pleasantly surprised by this book, though. I found it easy to read and thought provoking. Although other reviewers have been disappointed in the "happy, God loves you, grace for all, tolerance" message they claim the book holds, I didn't feel that way. I don't think this book was written for a non-Christian audience who is seeking a Savior. I found it an encouraging and interesting way to see what my Savior did for me and all of us on the cross. If you are looking for a way to keep the cross real in your life, for encouragement, or for an interesting look at our Lord, I would highly recommend this book!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Life Everlasting - A Review

2011-09-26T16:16:00.004-05:00

Life Everlasting
An Alexia Lindale Novel
By Robert Whitlow

It's been a LONG time since I read the first Alexia Lindale novel so I figured that this would be a good test to see if they're truly "novels" or if they're really part of a series where you need to read them in order...

It was okay reading this book without remembering much of the first (although I remembered more and more as the book went along), but I'm not sure if I'd qualify it as a "novel" though. Many references go back to the first book, but they're not really that important...

This book is a good mystery with Whitlow's signature legal plot (although there's less courtroom action than other books he's written.) There's also a lot of musical information in this book - which I loved - but which could be a bit over the head of someone who's not interested in classical piano literature.

All in all I thought this was a fun, relaxing read and if you enjoy Whitlow's other books, you'd probably like this one too!

I received this book for free from Booksneeze for this review

Nursing Woes

2011-08-08T10:49:00.003-05:00

We've had a rough couple of weeks nursing! After a pretty successful and easy 13 months of nursing Bekah, this has been a difficult surprise for me!

When Sofie was about a week old she was having trouble on the right side - she was chopping away instead of sucking peacefully... After a visit to the lactation consultant and some increased focus on my part, things improved greatly.

Fast forward 7 week...

OUCH. That right side was not only painful during feedings, it was stabbing and throbbing and aching all day long. Between the pediatrician, the OB's nurse (via phone), another lactation consultant (via phone) and my own little research we decided I probably had a plugged duct and perhaps even thrush way up in the ducts. I had 2 weeks of medication for thrush (finished today) and started home remedies (probiotics, AZO Yeast, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Coconut Oil, sun...).

I also got lots of advice from websites, friends, and La Leche League ladies. I figured, why keep all this to myself? So, in case you're in need of a little breastfeeding encouragement (it's still not awesome here, but definitely survivable now - and still improving), know someone who is, or have more tips to share - please enjoy :)

- Start on the "bad" side when the baby is the most alert and focused
- Hold the baby as if she's on the "good" side while on the "bad" side
- Swaddle the baby to keep those hands out of the equation
- Grow another two hands (okay, not really... but I'm pretty sure that would be so helpful!)
- Be diligent about a good latch
- To figure out what a good latch is, watch Dr. Newman videos on you tube
- Go in a quiet, darkish room
- Pull down the chin to help get the mouth wider
- Talk with (and schedule an appointment - ours is tomorrow) a pediatric physical therapist to see if there could be any muscular issues you can be working on
- Call the LaLeche League or a Lactation Consultant (or both)
- Be persistent in your calling and research - even when it seems that no one wants to handle the problem, you can find someone, you just have to keep looking
- Have daddy keep the baby for a night so you can just get some alone time with sleep! I promise that the baby will be much cuter and you'll be much more ready to tackle the problem the next morning
- Figure out if you have yeast problems or plugged ducts or mastitis - information from LLL or Newman or kellymom is very helpful and easy to read
- Try everything and then try again
- Use a nipple shield if it's just too painful
- Have a friend who's a nurse and ask her advise - she's got good tips!
- Get APNO prescription from a compounding pharmacy
- Have another friend who's had 6 babies all with different nursing skills and abilities, successes and let downs (even better if she's a nurse too!) and get all the advice you can
- Pump the full, "bad" side to be sure it's all cleaned out
- Don't be afraid to find an answer if you want to, but if you don't (or can't) you don't have to keep going. Killing yourself over nursing isn't going to do any good for anyone - do only as much as you can handle
- Take time off of household duties and only worry about feeding baby
- Find the most comfortable spot to nurse, find as many pillows as you need, and stick with that spot when you figure it out

And I'm guessing I can get this list longer and longer as I continue to work with Sofie and hear from others too.

I'm praying that we will get over this hurdle and be able to continue breastfeeding (hopefully with less stress and pain soon).

Blogging for Books Review #2

2011-07-05T20:16:00.003-05:00

The second book I reviewed for Blogging for Books was

Mine Is the Night
By Liz Curtis Higgs

As a huge fan of Christian fiction (and often I find myself a huge fan because it tends to be "light" or "easy" reading) I thought this book would be right up my alley. When it came I was surprised that the book is 442 pages long! It also has a lot of Scottish vocabulary written throughout the pages. The length and unfamiliar language made it a more difficult read for me, but I still greatly enjoyed it (even though it took my brain power to read!)

This is a novel, but I believe you could meet the characters in other of Higgs' books. I didn't feel that it was necessary to read the other stories, but sure would like to now!

The story is believable, the characters are so very lifelike, and the tale is one of beautiful detail.

All in all, if you enjoy a bit heavier Christian fiction, this is the book for you! If you're interested in Scottish traditions and history, this is also the book for you!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Wow... Long Time No Post!!

2011-06-09T17:27:00.004-05:00

I never like bloggers like me. This whole pregnancy I've been terrible at keeping a current blog. I had great ideas from chronicling my Gestational Diabetes Journey to posting favorite freezer meal recipes and documenting my making of those meals...

BUT

I'm not pregnant anymore (which means I'll be even busier, but have adorable pictures to show!)

Sofia Joy joined our family on May 25th.
She weighed 8lb 1.1oz and was 20in long!

Thanks to the GD, we planned to induce baby right on the 39 weeks mark. Although I had made 4 earlier visits to Labor & Delivery (one around 26 weeks for what I thought were contractions, one on Mother's Day for leaking fluid which didn't end up being amniotic, one later that week for constant painful regular contractions that didn't make any progress after walking for 2 hours, and one a week later for dehydration caused contractions that I had thanks to being outside a lot and having no clue I was dehydrated!), baby decided to stay put until the induction date.

We got to the hospital a bit after 8am and started the check-in process. We had a training nurse so everything took a little longer than normal, but my contractions were still just the same as they'd been for 2 weeks so it wasn't too bad!

We started up on pitocin around 10am. I was 4-5cm and 75% at that point.

At noon my epidural was delivered as Mike enjoyed lunch in the cafeteria (he missed the whole thing! Good thing I had a great set of nurses and a wonderful doc doing the procedure!)

At one Dr. Wing broke my water (a strange strange thing...). My Blood Sugar went super low as well as my blood pressure (thanks epidural) so I got some popsicles and epinephrine and felt better.

At 2:45 I was about 7-8cm and Dr. Wing thought we'd have a baby before suppertime.

At 3 I wanted to push (again, something new for me!)

At 3:15 I started pushing

At 3:30 Dr. Wing gowned up

At 3:51 Sofia arrived sunny-side up

What a fast and easy delivery compared to all the complications and length of Bekah's! Everything was much more relaxed and dare I say it normal which was a huge blessing.

Sofia's blood sugars stabilized on their own and we were all able to go home on May 27th.

Bekah has been GREAT with her sister. She really loves her. She's gotten over the fact that crying is loud. She hasn't figured out that mommy can't snuggle her WHILE nursing Sofia though...

Just now Sofia was downstairs and Bekah and I were upstairs and Sof started to cry. Bekah said "Oh mom, she's just hungry again."

Hehe. A little mother in the making.

Another Cute Thing My Little Bekah Says

2011-04-04T17:15:00.002-05:00

Bekah's recently made up her own contraction

"I amn't"

Obviously this means "I am not going to... I am not in there... I am not....."

Too cute

My Newest Adventure

2011-03-28T17:17:00.002-05:00

This pregnancy I've been diagnosed with gestational diabetes.

I'm happy to be getting my blood sugars under control, hoping that this will help keep away a hypoglycemic baby with a NICU stay and a High Blood Pressure mommy with an added hospital stay!

But, it's challenging.

I like sweets. Juice... Eating when I want, what I want, how much I want.

But learning to eat healthier will not only benefit baby, but will hopefully help me feel more tip top and healthy too!

Yesterday was a rough day - my numbers were WAY too high and I felt pretty terrible. Today I've been super picky and am doing a bit better.

Sometimes it's frustrating. I don't always get it.

But it's going to be worth it!

Blogging for Books Review #1

2011-03-21T17:28:00.005-05:00

I have recently joined another book review program (since I love to read, like to blog, and love to get free books, why not, right?!

Tandem
Tracey Bateman

This is a vampire book.

I've never read a vampire book.

I enjoyed this vampire book.

Actually, it's not at all what I expected. When I started into the book and learned that it had a vampire character (or two or three or none... hmmm....) I was a little concerned. But, the story, the plot, the intrigue were quite good. And there were no gory vampire parts!

I would recommend this book if you're looking for a lightly suspenseful, easy read in the coming days and months!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Some More Bekah-isms

2011-03-21T17:20:00.003-05:00

For those who so enjoy hearing about Bekah's newest... Here you go :)

"for-to-got" (translation: forgot) Use: "Mommy, you for to got my shoes!"

"ah-use-a-may" (translation: Ayúdeme - spanish for help me) Use: Anytime she needs (or wants) help she yells like Dora :)

Her newest stalling technique: "But I'm afraid" Afraid of jammies, afraid of potties, afraid of snuggles... She actually is becoming more fearful - of being left alone, of being in the dark... but she's also figured out how to stall with this new tactic!

She can successfully count to 11 all the time and 13 usually. When she wants something, she wants "1-2-3-4-5..." or more...

Happy Birthday Swagbucks!

2011-02-21T07:43:00.002-06:00

If you're already a "Swagger" feel free to disregard this post...

If you're still on the fence - there's not a better time to jump into the fun!

I've earned over $125 worth of Amazon gift cards in the time I've used Swagbucks - seriously it's not complicated - just regular searching!

Swagbucks (the best place on the web for free stuff) is turning 3, and the celebration they have planned for the 28th is going to be HUGE! It'll feature a bunch of Swag Codes, a new look and feel for the Swagbucks Blog and the launch of two new features, one of which will redefine the way you use their search function. You definitely won't want to miss it, so be sure that you're on the site bright and early the morning of the 28th for your chance to earn big and be a part of the biggest birthday celebration on the web!

Swagbucks.com is a site where you can earn 1,000s of free products for doing the things you do every day. Whether it's searching the web, watching videos, playing games, shopping or more, we've got a way for you to be rewarded with free stuff. No strings. No gimmicks."

Oh, and for you brand new swaggers - I've got a special code which will earn you an extra 50 swagbucks when you sign up!! Just enter the swag code 3rdBirthday4 when you register!

Happy Birthday Swagbucks - thanks for sharing the love :)

Updated Bekah-isms Take 2

2011-02-05T09:55:00.003-06:00

I LOVE the way she says magazine... mag-za-line

I find her grasp on the crazy English language adorable... What's she's wearing? What's wrong with she?

I think it's mighty adorable when she asks to wear a bracelet... break-a-let

Her new found love of hot chocolate cracks me up... hot chaw-co-late (with a New York accent)

One of her favorite new toys that grandpa made for Christmas... My dawh-ly house

Her fascination with her new sibling... "What's your baby doing mommy? Mine's kicking." "It's my brother. His name is Baby Jesus." "It's my sister." There's much kissing, singing to, petting, and snuggling with the baby as well.

The two new members of our family... "I'm playing with my brothers. Their names are Jason and Jeffrey." (Don't ask me - I haven't a clue...)

Going to bed with my guys which means at least 2 if not 5 animals, babies, and other assorted toys...

Baby 2 Week 23

2011-02-04T17:45:00.002-06:00

We've made it into to the 23rd week of this pregnancy!!

Since I did so much more with Bekah's pregnancy... pictures, writing, thinking, dreaming... I thought I'd take a second to recount today's day with Lanser Baby 2 :)

Little Buddy is busy... not all the time... but when (s)he decides to say hi it's rather intense!

According to the Chinese Lunar Calendar Bekah was supposed to be a girl and this baby is supposed to be a boy. But, the old wives' tales quizzes are split down the middle on the girl/boy thoughts.

Baby is LOW LOW LOW and is causing mommy some discomfort in the hip/leg regions.

Today at my OB appointment we learned
* The pelvic pain is not uncommon in 2nd (and beyond) pregnancies
* I get to start going to PT to hopefully help combat the pain and will continue at the chiropractor too
* HR is still fast - 154 - just like Bekah's was...
* Mommy has gained about 9 lbs or so
* FH was 24, so right on track even though I feel smaller than with Bekah
* Mommy still doesn't have GD, but will be testing again next month. In the meantime, we're all learning to try and stay low on those carbs and sugars and keep ourselves in balance!
* My PA thinks Bekah is the sweetest girl ever
* Mike doesn't appreciate Sports Illustrated being the only "guy" mag in the office - he wants TIME or NEWSWEEK or computer gaming magazines instead...
* My BP was 120/72 - that's AMAZING. Right about now with Bekah was the first sign of an elevation... Let's hope that stays where it belongs!

If Only I Had the Camera

2011-02-04T17:42:00.003-06:00

I could snap a shot of what I see behind me -

Bekah is laying on the floor with a throw pillow from the couch and a warm blanket. She's got a little dolly next to her and is reading a book.

<3 HER!!!

Another Cleaning Fav

2011-01-29T19:28:00.001-06:00

I like soaps that smell tasty great

I like soaps that don't leave my hands cracked and red

I like the idea of antibacterial soaps, but after hearing so much about super germs, I'm not so sure.

So, we switched to natural Tea Tree Oil Soap in the bathroom - a natural antibacterial :)

What about you? Fancy, cheap, antibacterial, not, natural... What kind of soap floats your boat?

Health Update

2011-01-29T18:48:00.001-06:00

I mentioned our recent illnesses.

Mine haven't been horrific or strange... just an obnoxious cold, a round of stomach flu, and another cold...

Bekah's haven't been as nice though!

Before Christmas she had her first bladder infection. They were concerned that the infection was traveling to her kidneys - especially thanks to my history. She had an ultrasound and they thought everything looked normal.

2 weeks ago she got another one.

This time she landed in the hospital for an IV super dose of drugs.

Except for the 45 minutes it took to get the IV in, she was a trooper and had a great time in the "hosbiible"

Thursday she had a VCUG to see if she has reflux in her bladder. She doesn't. Apparently she's just a lucky little lady to have already had two infections in the last 6 weeks!

Poor thing.

She's a brave one.

And her cuteness rubs off on all the nurses - yesterday she ended up with 25 stickers...

Clean, Clean, Clean

2011-01-28T16:43:00.003-06:00

After weeks of morning sickness and then a month of regular sickness, the second trimester energy infested Amy has started the nesting/cleaning crazies!

Today the entire bathroom was disinfected and cleaned
All the toys that could were washed in the tub
All the toys that could were washed in the washing machine
The floors were cleaned (until the stick vac died - I've forgotten how to sweep thanks to my birthday gift!)

Now, not all the dishes are done, not all the clothes are done, but boy, does the house smell nice.

While cleaning today I got to thinking about how my cleaning products vary between seasons...

When it's not "sick" season, I typically clean with vinegar and water. It's cheap. It's green. It cuts the hard water we have in this house. I like it. I also typically use rags instead of paper towels. I also like my Green Works (or something) cleaner...

When I'm lazy I love the clean up wipes. They're so easy... and quick...

When I'm freaking out about germs I find myself cracking out the Clorox and the paper towels. Good stuff I tell ya, good stuff...

More Online Games

2011-01-13T11:35:00.005-06:00

I'll admit it - I'm a sucker for online flash games.

And now there's an even more addicting place to play - on Swagbucks I can now play flash games for free and win bucks randomly!

If you're already a Swagger, great. If you're not, even greater - you can sign up today or tomorrow and use the code SBGames and you'll earn an extra 30 bucks just for signing up - double the bucks to start!

Enjoy the games and the bucks :)

Nap Woes

2010-12-21T14:38:00.001-06:00

Bekah hasn't ever been the best napper... it took her 6 months to settle into a nap routine, she dropped the AM nap by her 1st birthday, and now, in the last few weeks, she's skipped more afternoon naps than she's taken.

I'm done in.

She still sits in her crib for at least 1.5 hours.

But this pregnant mama doesn't get peace or quiet...

And she doesn't get any rest

And then is exhausted and crabby the rest of the afternoon.

Any suggestions!??!?!!??!

A Full Gamut of Feelings

2010-12-13T21:41:00.003-06:00

Some days I can't believe I'm pregnant but then some days I can't believe I'm not 26 weeks pregnant instead of almost 16

Some days I'm so excited to be having another baby that I forget I lost one a few months ago but other days I just wish I was able to meet that little guy

Some days I can't remember what it's like to even have a newborn and then on other days I just want the baby here so we can be a family of 4

Some days I wish I was almost done being pregnant and then other days I realize that means life will be even different

Some days I'm positive that I don't want to find out "what we're having" since we didn't with Bekah and the surprise was fun but then other days I freak out wondering what happens if we have no appropriate clothing if we have a boy - although, really, does it matter since everything we have is heavy and wintery warm and this baby will be born in the spring?

ACK.

And How Do You Win This One?!?!?

2010-12-09T09:21:00.000-06:00

Mommy: "Go back upstairs and get your water bottle"

Bekah: "NO"

Mommy: "Yes, right now."

Bekah: "No, you do it mommy."

Mommy: "You may go up and get your water bottle or I will have to spank you."

Bekah: "Spank me Mommy."

Mommy: "Alright"

Post Spanking...

Bekah: "Don't hit me Mommy."

Sheesh!!!

15 Weeks and Counting

2010-12-08T17:23:00.002-06:00

This morning I had my 15 week OB Appointment.

I was really nervous... I've been feeling a little better, having some weird aches and pains, and still can't really feel much baby movement.

Baby's heartbeat is a strong 154. Mommy's weight is going up a tiny bit (I know, I'm supposed to be thrilled and I guess it is good considering I had lost a bit in the first 11 weeks...). Everything is measuring fine. My blood pressure even wasn't too wacky at 138/70... I've seen worse!

Now we just have the diabetes concern... After being misdiagnosed/undiagnosed with Bekah (thanks to my hypoglycemia and a nurse who was a little confused at how a blood sugar issue would affect a blood sugar test...), my doctor wants to be on top of it bright and early this time.

So, at my next appointment I get lots of fun - the 1 hour glucose test (whoopie...), the 19 week ultrasound, AND it's all on my birthday so Mike will take the morning (possibly the whole day actually) off and we'll enjoy!

Actually, I found out today that Mike wants to come to most (all) of the appointments with this pregnancy like he did with Bekah - I figured he'd be "over" that, but I'm really excited he wants to come :)

Tough Parenting

2010-12-08T17:11:00.003-06:00

Our little girl has a bladder infection that seems to be traveling towards her right kidney.

She's such a trooper! Over a week (at least) of growing an infection and she wasn't even too horrible... Over 2 hours at the clinic and she only had one little temper tantrum... A 5 minute cath. procedure and she only laid on the table crying "I don't like it Mommy!!!" Only 30 doses of some nasty smelling pink medication that she takes with a smile on her face.

We go in to follow up in two weeks with another urine culture and a kidney ultrasound to be sure she's not inherited mommy's kidney problems.

What a brave little girl!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T21:24:00.002-06:00

This year we are spending the Thanksgiving holiday with Mike's family.

Our twin nieces and Bekah have been keeping us pretty entertained.

Some of my favorite highlights involving Bekah and her cousins -

"I know, I know" (Bekah says this while kissing and stroking a crying cousin - apparently I've used that phrase a few times!)

"Shhhh..." (again, Bekah trying to comfort an upset cousin)

Kisses, hugs, and snuggles for the girls

"Helping" feed a cousin a bottle today at the family dinner

Intently watching a diaper change and questioning everything that's happening

I certainly hope that the love of all things baby doesn't disappear in about 25 weeks when Bekah becomes a big sister...

My Baby's So Big!

2010-11-21T17:10:00.001-06:00

After two years of pacifier love, Bekah lost her paci on Saturday night. I haven't a clue where those last two could be (but I haven't looked too hard either...). When we went to put her to bed Saturday, there was no paci to give her. And she didn't really complain. Sunday she never asked for it. Today she asked for it at naptime, but didn't mind when I said it was gone.

Seriously

She's too big!

How to Save $172.30 a Month

2010-11-18T20:57:00.003-06:00

Disclaimer: Now, this really isn't the safest, funnest, or smartest way to cancel a debt. We're definitely not advocating a car accident to assist you in your financial freedom. But, we are choosing to look at a frustrating, scary, and dangerous situation as something that turned out for the good of our family in the long run!

October 19, 2010
7:30pm
One block from home
After a long and exhausting day of morning (all day) sickness and an almost 2-year old who was in one of those moods, my darling hubs sent me out with a book to a coffee shop for a little respite. He was going to put the munchkin to bed and let me have the evening away.
I decided to run to Target to pick up Bekah's birthday gift and then to head to Panera for a nice, warm drink and a bit of alone time.
As I stopped at the 4-way stop a block from our house, I thought to myself that the car coming from my right was just going a bit too fast. But, I still drove into the intersection since it was my turn and there was a stop sign there that would obviously keep the car from running into me. WRONG
As soon as I started into the intersection I realized the car wasn't about to stop and I tried to steer away and brace for impact (is that all possible in -2.5 seconds!?)
My car was immediately smooshed, things came flying at me from the seat and passenger door, the lights/electronics shut off, and I sat there going ACK!
I hopped out of the car and called Mike. No, not the police, Mike... Don't ask. I was obviously a little shaken up! He didn't answer - he was putting Bekah to bed... That's when the pizza delivery boy witness asked if I was calling the police. Right, police... 911... that's what you do in an emergency!
So after talking with the 911 lady and the witness (who gave his number and then had to go since we were all okay and he had a pizza to deliver!) and looking over to be sure the other driver (lady and 3 year old was in the backseat) looked okay, I called Mike again - screaming into the answering machine "ANSWER THE PHONE NOW!!!" He wasn't thrilled - he said "I'm putting Bekah down" and I informed him to get her up, bundle her up, and bring her up the block because I'd been hit!
Then a wonderful lady police officer arrived - she tried to speak with the other driver, but she didn't know any English. She called a friend to come and translate. Then the police asked me if I was okay or in need of medical attention. At first I said I was fine, just sore, but then I realized I was 7 weeks 6 days pregnant. After just suffering a miscarriage a few months earlier, I was super nervous when I remembered my little guy!
EMTs were there quickly, as was Mike and Bekah. We all climbed in the ambulance to get checked out and they thought baby was fine, but did recommend I go to the OBGYN the next day.
After the ambulance, we got to the car and pulled out what we could - stroller and car seat (which has since been replaced, but we needed SOMETHING until we could get a new one!), purse, garage door opener. The firemen there said they were sure my car was totaled. The wrecker driver agreed when he came.
Then the nice police officer sent us all home as it was dark and we had little ones with us - she delivered $1600 of tickets to the other driver and brought the paperwork to our house at the end of her shift. The tickets were for failure to stop, driving without a license, an driving an uninsured car.
Our insurance agency has been great to work with - and very concerned about my health as well as the baby's.
The ultrasound I had the next day showed a perfectly growing little one - who probably had no clue the trouble mommy had been through!
When all was said and done, the insurance was able to pay off our loan and give us just enough to purchase a new car! Well, it's not new - it's a few years older than our red car, but it's in great condition. Mike's parents have been looking to sell the car for a while and asked the exact price we got from the insurance claim! We have another Honda in the family now - a 5 speed manual - it's getting easier by the day for me to drive!

I'm definitely still wary about 4-way stops. Just this morning I got a little freaked out when a guy didn't stop BEHIND the sign and instead crept towards me... Ack! I'm a more defensive driver now which is a good thing I suppose.

I do think that after an accident they should print signs for your car "I was hit at a 4-way stop - back off" and "I drive with no license, insurance, can't speak English, and just totaled my car and another lady's" as warnings for others.

I am so thankful for the Lord's protection over me and our new baby. A car is just a car. Not a big deal. The fact that I had no one riding in that seat is huge. Thank you Lord for your blessing and hand!

Happy Birthday Bekah!

2010-11-06T19:50:00.002-05:00

October 25th was Bekah's second birthday!

We had a great party in MN at Grandma and Grandpa S' house. Grandma and Grandpa L were there, so were uncles Tim and Marcus, Great-uncle Dave, and great grandmas Ruth and Loretta. A fun time was had by all! We missed our Aunties Joelle and Mindy (plus Ryan), but they had good excuses to miss the party - Auntie Mindy had her twins on the 23rd and was in the hospital. Tante Joelle was in Haiti doing missionary work, but she called on the phone before bedtime!

We had such fun letting Grandma S do all the party prep and work (mommy was especially thankful since she wasn't feeling very well. We had tasty Chocolate Cherry Bars instead of cake - they were a big hit!

Bekah definitely enjoyed all her gifts and her singing birthday card. She hasn't forgotten ANY of them yet! So fun.

We love you little girl and are so happy you've been part of our family for the last two years!

10... A Beautiful Number

2010-11-04T11:24:00.004-05:00

10...
The age I first felt "grown up" and now, looking back, I have to laugh

10...
The number of finger and toe nails my precious Bekah needs clipped frequently

10...
A full piano studio

10...
Weeks I've been carrying a new little L baby

10...
Weeks I've been sicker than I would like to ever be again

10...
Weeks of excitement, nervousness, happiness, tension

10...
Weeks towards being a mommy of two

Quick Update

2010-10-14T21:43:00.001-05:00

We're still here!

We've been so busy enjoying this amazing fall weather that I've completely neglected anything computery... even piano lesson things (gulp!).

Pictures, videos and stories to come...

Peer Through My Window of Grief

2010-09-13T21:17:00.008-05:00

keen mental suffering or distress over affliction or loss
sharp sorrow painful regret
a cause or occasion of keen distress or sorrow

In the last 7 weeks my thoughts on grief have been radically

challenged
and
changed

In the last 49 days I've learned there's no

wrong
or
right

In the last 1176 hours my heart has

broken
and
healed
and
broken
and
healed

On July 6th we were so excited to learn about our second child's conception
On July 19th we were so excited to share the news with our families
On July 25th we were so shocked to wake up to heavy bleeding... to spend the morning in the ER instead of church, to go home without any good answers, to physically hurt while trying to remain optimistic while really feeling there was no hope
On July 26th we were so brokenhearted when I was sure I had passed our little one from my body
On July 27th we were so sad when we had our worst fears confirmed

What a difference 3 weeks makes

But during this time I have still been learning...

I will never shy away from grief of the grieving again
The care and concern shown us by our church family emotionally, spiritually, and physically were more important to me than anything anyone has done for me before
The cards and emails sent from friends and family still adorn our dresser, reminding us that we have friends who are walking with us
The ability to be honest about how I was/am feeling has been freeing
The knowledge that there are those willing to listen if I want to talk, or willing to ignore the pain if I want a reprieve - bliss

I will never expect someone's grief to follow rules
There's no pattern
There's no right or wrong
It doesn't end on a set date
No one is the same and no one knows exactly how they would react in a similar situation

I will never again take for granted my healthy, beautiful, vibrant daughter
A pregnancy
A life
A conception

I will never again think I have the answers or try to offer trite words
During pain
During loss
During confusion

I will never again think one quick word is enough
A week later it still hurts
A month later it still hurts
...

I will never again place any expectations on the grieving
Plans will change and that will be okay
Things may be missed and that will be okay
It isn't a personal attack on those not directly involved and they need to be okay

I will never have the same thrill when I hear about pregnancy
My own, or someone else's
It will always have a tinge of fear coloring the joy
Or perhaps even a trickle of jealousy running through

I will never have the same number of pregnancies that I have children
There will always be one missing

I will never have my questions answered
At least, not in this world
But I will choose to look forward

I will never be the same
But I will go on
Through God's grace and mercy
With His strength alone, since mine is all gone

I will never give up trusting Him
Because without Him, what would be the point
Because without Him, how could I carry on
Because without Him I am nothing and can do nothing
But with Him I can do all things as He strengthens me

I can do all things
Through Christ who gives me strength,
But sometimes I wonder what He can do through me;
No great success to show, No glory on my own,
Yet in my weakness He is there to let me know . . .

His strength is perfect when our strength is gone;
He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on.
Raised in His power, the weak become strong;
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect.

We can only know
The power that He holds
When we truly see how deep our weakness goes;
His strength in us begins
Where ours comes to an end.
He hears our humble cry and proves again . . .

Updated Bekah-isms

2010-09-03T13:12:00.007-05:00

Here are some long awaited Bekah-isms from the past month and a half

On July 21st Bekah proved she can count from 1-9. I'm not sure how she figured it out, but perhaps it was from her Signing Time DVD?

Bekah loves Target. A few weeks back she knew when we were driving by and said "To Tahrgeet ah Momma". Then, she saw the Target insignia at the library one day (on a poster for the summer reading program) and was thrilled to see "Tahrgeeet". A week or so later, she was watching Wipeout (aka "Wipe It" - one of her favorite shows) with Daddy - and they put a bulls-eye on someone - of course she was positive it was "Tahrgeet"!

She has a fascination with Mario - thanks Wii for that one! She's made quite a few young men excited when she's noticed their teeshirts have "Maaaario" on them!

This first picture shows Bekah's newest luxury - laying on daddy's desk while watching Sesame Street...

The other day Bekah was throwing a ball. Then she brought it to me and said "a throw mommy, ya?" In other words "Mommy, I know you've been itching to throw this ball for me, right?"

We don't frequent Walmart as much as we do Target, but a few weeks ago we stopped there and Mike ran in really fast to get "Bekah's milk" (Lactaid - cheapest generic is at Walmart). The next time we went to Walmart she reminded me that "Daddy (get) Bekah milk" here.

She's very sure that everyone know where she is and what she's doing - at church she can be heard coming up the steps "Bekah a'coming"

Bekah loves to help - here she's carrying daddy's bottle of mouthwash at Walgreens. She dropped it about 10 times between the aisle and the counter... We had lots of giggles from other patrons!

Yesterday Bekah was coloring on the coffetable (I covered it with a big piece of white paper from a handy roll I bought at Hobby Lobby). She took a white crayon, colored, stopped, looked at me, and said (in a very concerned voice) "is'nt workin momma"

The other day I found her working a crossword puzzle while using the toilet. Actually, she didn't work the puzzle at all - simply colored on the cover and she didn't use the potty either - just "I try it"

On another random trip to Walmart, I decided to let Bekah walk since we only needed one item. I doubt I'll let her walk in the store again until she's 12... It took a while, but we weren't in a hurry and it was actually rather fun seeing the world through her eyes! There was a nice guy who stopped and waited patiently for us to pass and then he told whoever he was talking to on his cell phone that "you should see her, she's just so cute". As we walked passed stuffed animals Bekah was happy to find a "hippapatamus" (her pronunciation). As we were heading towards the exit she saw some teenybopper teeshirts and pointed at the picture on one of the shirts and loudly exclaimed "Daddy!" I was a bit horrified to see her pointed to Justin Beiber... Really Bekah?! Daddy is way cuter! The woman behind us sure got a good laugh though.

Bekah can be very resourceful - here she's showing off her newest skill - hanging things from her overalls. She also loves "pockeets" - I have to start checking them before the wash because yesterday I found 2 crayons and $.35!

This little girl has such spunk and character, it's amazing.

Each day I feel like she's coming up with something new. Lately she's been talking so much more - and when she doesn't know enough words to make up a big sentence, she makes up words. "Mommy play a pom poms ahgoiiaesth shhheee bhsjj ya" - translation - Mommy, I want to play with the pom poms on the table now please... Very entertaining!

She's learned the sharing isn't always fun...

She figured out how to work the TV remote and the Wiimote with Netflix...

She misses her nana and papa (our Pastor and his wife) who recently moved to NJ.

She loves to call "Ngrama" and "Ngrapa" or "papa" on the phone - sometimes she asks for "Gigi" or "Unca Marcus" too.

She's learning to pray - at lunch we'll understand "God akjsdfkjadhf Amen"

I'm trying to read a bit of the Bible with her each morning... So far it only happened on Monday. But it's going to be a new habit we'll work on. She does like "God's book, Mommy's book" (the Bible) and did a great job listening!

She still loves "This Little Light of Mine" at bedtime - now she knows the "NO" and the "sphhthhh" (blow) verses - but she sometimes gets confused as to which verse we're singing.

She's learning to stall at bedtime... "unn more book"... "more pray"... "more sing"... TONIGHT was the best stall of all though!!! "Goodnight Bekah. Mommy loves you. Daddy loves you" I said. She jumped in "and Jesus loves me" :D

She still sleeps with 2 pacis - and a puppy, and a monkey, and a blankey, and sometimes her baby too.

I love my little lady to pieces and can't imagine how just 2 years ago I didn't have a CLUE what I was getting into :)

Taking Care of Business

2010-08-20T18:03:00.003-05:00

This month has had its ups and downs

And I'm not going to brag because it's been pretty stinky

Money is T I G H T - when my job goes practically nonexistent during the summer (yay teaching piano lessons and babysitting) things get tough

This year we didn't plan ahead

We've never planned ahead

We've also never had a car payment, a toddler, high gas prices,.........

BUT

God is in the business of taking care of business

We've been plugging away after Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace class

We've been doing our best to be smart and wise stewards

We've been working hard on budgets, cash, and extra payments

And God likes that I think

This month was looking rough - last month of the summer - no more floating money to save us

But...

...We were offered some side work at a local business for a couple hours a week
...A few students came for extra lessons this month
...I started babysitting again
...Our electric bill ended up being only $20 as we were involved in a meter read date change
...Our credit card bill (yes, we have a balance - it's too high - the cards are literally frozen now...) had a $6 lower fee this month
...We will be able to cancel our expensive and frustrating cell phone plan tomorrow for free - end of contract
...I was asked to fill in for one of the church secretaries this week - work I did mostly from home

So, it's all working out

I'm just getting grayer by the moment...

Back-To-School Swagbucks Week

2010-08-08T09:54:00.002-05:00

Now, I must admit I don't really go for the whole back-to-school thing... really... how is that exciting... Summer is over... Freedom is gone...

BUT

Swagbucks is making the week much sweeter if you ask me!

Check it out...

Swagbucks is fighting the Back-To-School blues all this week with lots of fun promotions! First, you'll have the chance to win five different limited edition back-to-school themed Swag Bucks - if you snag them all, you'll earn a 50 Swag Buck bonus! Plus, they're having another Swag Code Extravaganza on Thursday, where you'll get at least 5 codes for extra bucks. If you're not already searching and winning on Swagbucks.com, head over now and enter the code BackToSchool for 40 bonus bucks during registration - that means with the 30 bucks you get for signing up you'll have earned 70 bucks before you've done ANYTHING!!!

I'm telling you... if you haven't started Swagbucks yet, I highly recommend it - I've earned $100 in Amazon cards in the year or so I've been using the Swagbucks search engine. I have bookmarked my favorite site's swagbucks search site (so my Gmail bookmark takes me to a swagbucks search for gmail...) and earn bucks each day by doing simple, normal searches. I take a poll and check surveys most days and that's another 2 bucks right there. I earn from my referrals - all you peeps who have signed up under me. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

Give it a try today!

Winners Winners!

2010-08-01T22:20:00.001-05:00

Rockin' Green:
Sarah @ gmail.com

SKOY:
Becky @ gmail.com
Dawana @ gmail.com

Congrats ladies! I've contacted the companies and they'll be sending your prizes shortly! Enjoy your winnings and thanks for playing :)

CLOSED Rockin' Green Cloth Diaper Detergent - Review & Giveaway - Open to US Residents July 20-30

2010-07-20T20:41:00.006-05:00

We use cloth diapers.

We love using cloth diapers.

Lately though, I started having a stinkies problem!

I searched online... all over my favorite sites... and determined the problem to be our HARD water and detergent choices.

My detergent was fine for 16 months or so... but then my poor old washer couldn't hack the hard water plus detergent plus diapers anymore and left us with stinkies!

Enter Rockin' Green Cloth Diaper Detergent.

Rockin’ Green was designed with hard water problems in mind, so even if you have had trouble finding things that work in the past, Rockin’ Green will surprise you.

Hard Rock 2.0: This hard water formula is perfect for those that struggle with diaper laundry! Hard Rock 2.0 will blow you away!

It's true.

I'm in love.

Not only are the scents wonderful, the detergent does its job!! We have clean, happy diapers once more.

Thanks to Rockin' Green, I have 1 bag of Rockin' Green Detergent available (you pick the formula and the scent!)

Mandatory Entry: Head over to Rockin' Green's website and let me know which formula and scent you would like. This WILL be your winning if you are the winner!

Bonus Entry 1: Like Rockin' Green on Facebook and let them know that Ames sent you!

Bonus Entry 2: Follow or Subscribe to my blog

Bonus Entry 3: Tell me which brand is your favorite cloth diaper

Rockin' Green provided me with 3 sample bags of detergent in exchange for my honest review. These words are my own. No other products or money were exchanged.

Billy Graham, His Life and Influence by David Aikman

2010-07-16T09:37:00.002-05:00

I just finished reading Billy Graham, His Life and Influence by David Aikman last night.

This is a thoughtful book that looks at Billy Graham's ministry critically - Aikman gives a thorough look at Graham's views, thoughts, and statements throughout the years.

I enjoyed this book as it helped me better understand the world I live in today - thanks to the background about Communism, the Cold War, our Presidents (Truman-Bush), and other pressing social matters - as well as helped me to feel like I understand Graham (a past president of my alma mater!) a bit more.

I also enjoyed the way this book didn't seem to "pick sides" when explaining remarks or statements Graham made. While not necessarily written from a Christian view-point, this book makes a clear case for the gospel without being a "turn off" for someone who is not a believer in Jesus Christ but is interested in America's Pastor Billy Graham.

I would recommend this book to Christians and non-Christians alike - to anyone who is interested in Billy Graham's life and/or ministry.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Can't Pass This One Up Either

2010-07-15T16:46:00.002-05:00

I need a new vacuum

Seriously

Terribly

Horribly

Yes, I do!

Check out the Bewitchin' Kitchen for a great Dyson Giveaway!

Another Great One!!!

2010-07-15T16:01:00.002-05:00

Here's another link - this time it's over to Sisterly Savings for a $50 Amazon Gift Card!

Check it out - you just need to vote for her little guy in a Gerber Baby Photo contest - quick, easy, and helpful to their family too!

Good luck :)

A Great Giveaway to Sign Up For

2010-07-14T23:12:00.001-05:00

Interested in saving money?

Love to stay organized?

Head over to Sisterly Savings to enter for a Couponizer

CLOSED SKOY Review and Giveaway - 2 Winners (US Only) - Contest Open 7.14 - 7.29

2010-07-14T21:59:00.013-05:00

SKOY cloth is a ...

100% biodegradable

Absorbent

Re-usable

European-made

Clean

and Fun…

Multi-use cloth

If you follow my blog at all, or know me at all, you might have noticed our desire to live more frugally. It just so happens that often as we try to be more frugal we also happen to be more environmentally friendly! Getting rid of the paper towels has been in my mind for a while... It would save some $$ and definitely save some trash!

I've been seeing SKOY Cloths lately in many blog giveaways and I was intrigued. So, I contacted the company and asked for them to supply me with a sample and a giveaway.

I received my 4 pack of SKOY Cloths in the mail late last week. They were a little smaller than I had originally envisioned, but that hasn't hampered my using of them at all!

They came so neatly packaged - even tied in a little bow! A nice postcard sized card came along with directions for use and cleaning - it even included pictures.

I used my first cloth all day long - for some heavy duty kitchen clean up. It never failed! I didn't have a sopping mess, but was able to get the kitchen counters, table, and stove top neatly cleaned with ease.

I figured the real test of the product would be in the washing machine - I've had other cloths before that worked great... until that washer/dryer routine ruined them! Good work, SKOY, my cloths came out clean and in one nicely reusable package :)

I'm a believer - paper towels probably won't be on my main grocery shopping list anymore!

Thanks so much SKOY!!

Would you like to win your own pack of SKOY Cloths? What do you know, I have 2 packs to giveaway!!!

Please leave a comment for EACH entry making sure I can see your email on your blog profile, I know you personally and can contact you, OR by leaving me your email address in the contact form. This giveaway will close on July 29th and is open to US residents only.

Mandatory Entry:
Head over to SKOY Cloth and tell me which FAQ you find more interesting and why

Bonus Entry 1:
Follow me or subscribe to my blog

Bonus Entry 2:
Tell me something you're doing to save $$ and if that money saving tip is actually more environmentally friendly than your past more expensive habit was

Bonus Entry 3:
Like SKOY on Facebook

Bonus Entry 4:
Tell me which washing method you would usually use with your SKOY cloths

I received a 4 pack of SKOY Cloths for free so that I could write this review. SKOY cloth will provide 2 winners with a 4 pack of SKOY Cloths as well. No other compensation was given. These are my honest thoughts and honest opinions!

Cookies

2010-07-09T20:12:00.000-05:00

Apparently we haven't had enough cookies in this house!

When Bekah saw some Oreos this weekend she pointed at them and said "MONSTER"

That's right.

Cookie Monster

She thinks cookies are called monsters

And yes, she did go "um um um um" while eating them!

I'm Not Missing...

2010-07-06T14:21:00.000-05:00

... I'm just recovering from 10 days home with the whole family :)

Daddy had a week off + the 5th of July.

We had a lot of fun doing not much of anything...

Hurray!

I'll be back soon - with giveaways galore :)

Voicing my Frustration

2010-06-30T15:44:00.004-05:00

Since I can't seem to get anyone to understand my frustration at Verizon Wireless... I thought I'd bring it here and see what ya'll can come up with!

My Verizon cell phone is eligible for a renewal/upgrade.

My old phone is starting to really lose reception in our house, so we thought it was time for a new phone.

We found out yesterday that there are no phones that are actual upgrades available to us unless we take on an additional $9.99 a month data plan.

Now here's my issue:

1) We earned a new phone, but can't get anything equal to or better than we have if we're unwilling to purchase a data plan

2) A data plan is only an ala carte addition, NOT part of a regular monthly plan

Doesn't this seem a little skewed?

We earned it

We can't use it unless we add more service to our plan

We can't even upgrade our plan to include data - we have to ADD something EXTRA...

UGH.

I Don't Like to Play By These Rules

2010-06-24T23:01:00.002-05:00

When you decide as a couple to seriously fight the backwards slide into debt, American consumerism, and frustration, you will be hit numerous times over the head with a big, ugly stick

Not a fan of these rules.

Not going to lie.

As I've mentioned before, we're in the midst of Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University and we're LOVING it.

Although we've known many of these principles, having everything so conveniently packaged into a neat, hardcover book and website is just so handy - really it couldn't be easier to figure these things out! Thanks, Dave, for taking away our excuses.

But, now this dumb rule has been smashing us over the head:

We filled up our $1000 quick emergency fund

My computer broke and since it's a business tool we had to repair and replace parts

We started working on filling up our $1000 quick emergency fund again

Tonight, while delivering phonebooks (Mike picked up two routes this week - yay extra cash, boo hiss no extra time together - hence we all went - even Starbuck - driving around countryside we didn't even know existed - delivering phone books - hanging out - enjoying the weather - earning cash) my car's ABS light came on. According to the manual the remedy is to turn off the car and then restart. Well, on the restart it took FOREVER to turn over - as in I was really getting nervous! It's been getting slower and slower the last few weeks and tonight definitely put some fear into my little heart. UGH. Seriously?!

The End...

Ways to Save and Earn at Home

2010-06-22T11:42:00.002-05:00

What are some of your favorite ways to earn some extra cash from home?
How about ways to save extra cash easily?

Here are some of my favorites:

-COUPONS/FRUGAL BLOGS - thanks to wonderful bloggers like Money Saving Mom, I am able to find so many great deals on everyday necessities... Coupons... Sales... Freebie Giveaways... Samples...

-DIAPERS - I have mainly cloth diapered our 19 month old (for only 4 more days - WHERE has the time gone?!) during her lifetime. I just recently finished a disposable diaper study with Arquest though - GREAT! We got 15 days worth of diapers and $10 for 2 phone interviews lasting a couple of minutes each! 1.888.342.7372 is the number to try. Leave your child(ren)'s information - they may just call you back! They did for me :)

-SURVEYS - I've just started Surveyhead and we'll see where that takes me. In the past I've used other programs as well and, although the payouts are low, if you have freetime, why not...

-BLOG GIVEAWAY - I've already written about that yesterday!!

-SWAGBUCKS - Again, you've seen me mention this before, but it's worth another mention - SWAGBUCKS is amazing. I've earned over $100 of Amazon cards - and I have the purchases to prove it :)

-EBAY/ETSY/DIAPER SWAPPERS - I've been selling things. Why keep a perfectly wonderful Pampered Chef lid that I can't use since I don't have the pan? Why keep the 50 pairs of earrings I've made in a box where they're not used? Why store cloth diaper accessories that don't fit? SELL!

-BIG CRUMBS - When purchasing online I try to remember to shop through this site - I've earned $12 this way... but $12 is nothing to sneeze at!

What can you add to the list?
I'm sure I have more - I'll have to think on it some more :)

Free Time

2010-06-21T21:18:00.006-05:00

What do you do in your free time?

How do you spend that hour in the evening when the kids are in bed and you finally have a chance to breathe?

I have a few different favorites, but lately it's been entering blog giveaways. If you've read my blog long you've probably noticed when I've linked to another blog giveaway... Well, I thought I'd let you know that my little hobby has been paying off big time :)

In the last year or so I've won:
- 1 Book on rock and roll - conveniently sized to prop up the crib...
-1 $5 Starbucks Gift Card
- 1 $25 American Express Gift Card
- 1 Step 2 Playhouse
- 1 Signature Nail Polish Package
- 1 Coupon for a box of GoGurt and a planner
- 1 $25 Gift Card to Eden Fantasys
- 1 $50 Gift Card to Between the Sheets
- 1 Pipilla Pacifier Sanitizer
- 1 Box of B Natal Apple Lozenges
- 1 Coupon for a free Pillsbury Crescent Roll Package and serving plates
- 1 Camelbak for me
- 1 Camelbak for Mike
- 1 $10 giftcard to Select Bedding
- 1 Set of Preggie Pops/Preggie Drops
- 1 Set of Bummis Wipes
- 1 Set of Nellie's Dryer Balls
- 1 Coupon for a free box of Bryers Smooth and Dreamy

And there must be more
I know there's more

I just don't remember what they are right now.

Anywhoo - that's my little guilty pleasure
And sometimes it pays off!

Winks with Grandpa

2010-06-21T10:31:00.000-05:00

My dad recently came down for a little visit
He and Bekah are such pals
We found her winking skills especially hilarious that beautiful afternoon
Enjoy!

The End of a Long Week...

2010-06-19T21:37:00.002-05:00

Before the severe storms hit yesterday we had a very exciting visit from a very big truck!

After naptime we had a great time in the humid, sticky, pre-storm weather building our new playhouse! Mommy, Bekah, and Starbuck - just the girls. We did it! It was a great distraction from the terrible teething issues we'd been dealing with all day long.

Bekah is THRILLED with her new "hows"

Mommy is thrilled at the new house's pricetagZilch!Yup. That's right. Zip. Zero. Nada. None. FREE.
Thank you Step 2! Thank you for hosting a giveaway Dawana!So far the biggest hits of the house are the phone and the sink. "Hands" Bekah says... then she washes them (while making the water wooshing sounds)... then she says "Hands mommy... and mommy wooshes and washesI'm thrilled. I never had a playhouse. I'm like a kid in a candy store.Seriously.

What to Do If the Aliens Invade:

2010-06-17T20:29:00.002-05:00

Protect yourself with the rice cooker bowl

Gardening Update, Failures, and a Plea for Help!

2010-06-15T17:44:00.002-05:00

This year we started our first real veggie garden and we got to work on the front yard landscaping

Seeds:
- 2 Varieties of Bush Beans in 2 small rows
- 1 Variety of Head Lettuce
- 1 Variety of Leaf Lettuce
- 1 Variety of Baby Leaf Spinach

Sets:
- Red and Yellow Onion Sets
- 21 Magic Lilies

Transplants:
- 1 Nice Sized Bunch of Green Rhubarb
- 1 Tiny Bunch of Red Rhubarb
- 4 Varieties of Tomatoes (4 plants total - thanks Dad!)
- 1 GINORMOUS Bunch of Day Lilies (split into 7 sections - thanks Dad!)
- 6 Hostas (split into 10 total sections - thanks MaL!)
- 6 Raspberry Bush Trimmings (thanks Jody)
- 1 Wild Rose Trimming (thanks Jody)
- Various Volunteers: Salvia, Moss Rose, Vinca, Snow on the Mountain (thanks Jody)

Here's what's happened:

After a few weeks of horribly hot, dry weather, now we've been having chilly, icky, ridiculously rainy days.

My tomatoes, rhubarb, day lilies, and most of the hostas look terrific
Half of the raspberries look great
The wild rose trimming we tried didn't work
The salvia is doing well
The other volunteers have been terrorized by our dog and various hole digging animals... But they're trying to grow
The lettuce (both varieties) has disappeared - vanished - rained out - drowned - dead - gone
The beans are growing
The onions are terrific
The spinach has seen better days
The magic lilies look a little brown and nasty - but maybe they're supposed to
The tomatoes are HUGE and growing and happy and blooming

And half of the hostas and all of the beans are full of little holes...
Bugs...
Some kind...
Slugs maybe?

So, my plea for help - WHAT to do for the holey plants that need help?!?!?!?!

Sinus Pressure, Silly Infections, and Savings Fun

2010-06-14T16:31:00.002-05:00

1) Sinus Pressure
I'm not a fan
2 weeks
Today I got some mean antibiotics to hopefully fix the problem

2) Silly Infections
Again, not a fan
Sometimes when you get a sinus infection your eye can also become infected
More mean antibiotics for the eye too

3) Savings Fun
We're in the midst of Financial Peace right now!
It's super great!
We had finished Baby Step #1 ($1000 Emergency Fund), but then the computer died and we deemed that an emergency
Anywhoo... this weekend we did our first big, nasty budget. It wasn't too bad!
We also lowered our internet cost by around $15 just by slowing the speed from the same company.
We're waiting for our phone line to be ported - again saving us around $10-15 a month by going back to a local land line instead of VOIP - which is fine as we are already paying for WAY too many minutes on the cell that we rarely use
YAY
I've put up all the earrings, necklaces, and bracelets I've made over the last 1.5-2 years on my Etsy shop and already had a few sales!
I've sold old Pampered Chef products I don't use now that I'm not a consultant via Ebay.
I'm searching for a data entry home job
Mike's thinking about a morning stocking job at a local shopping establishment
WE CAN DO THIS

Summer of Swag

2010-06-07T14:33:00.004-05:00

Do you use Swagbucks yet?!

If not, there's never been a better time to start! having a Swag Code Extravaganza - we'll be releasing at least 5 Swag Codes throughout the day - this would be a great way for any newcomers you refer to start out with a bang!

Today Swagbucks is having a Swag Code Extravaganza - they're releasing at least 5 Swag Codes throughout the day - you can find these codes on their blog, their facebook, and elsewhere on the web!

They're highlighting a different high value Swag Buck bill each day! Today it's the 25 and I've already won one! Every 7th searching win on Swagbucks will be awarded that big bill, meaning that more people will have big wins next week!

To give your readers more incentive to sign up, they can use the code SUMMEROFSWAG when they sign up for an extra 20 Swag Bucks to pad their account. The code is good until the midnight on Friday, June 11th.

And for you brand newbies out there, use the code SUMMEROFSWAG when you sign up and you'll receive 20 extra Swag Bucks right away! (This code will expire at Midnight on Friday).

Click Here To Get STARTED!!!

(I've earned over $60 in Amazon cards and Paypal cash since starting my Swagbucks journey - it's an easy way to earn... just my searching... seriously... nothing to it - and it's legit too!!)

Winner Winner

2010-06-06T16:02:00.001-05:00

When is the winner ever #1?!

Today!

Congrats Jamie - I'll need your address and your final pick :)

Tough Week

2010-06-04T16:49:00.002-05:00

What do you do when you've had a tough week?

I've been TRYING not to wallow...

But I do want to share so if you don't want to hear my complaints, feel free to skip on by this post!!

Sunday Evening

My computer erased everything from "My Documents"

Everything

Gone

Vanished

Poof

Everything

ALL my pictures and movies of Bekah (and had I backed up since Christmas... no... of course not)

ALL my 9+ years of piano studio information

ALL the articles I've ripped out of magazines and spent hours scanning in case I ever want to read them again

ALL my recipes I've collected

ALL my clipart - some is very specific

ALL my scrapbooking designs

ALL of the music I have saved on my computer - some free, some found, some old, some new

ALL of my fancy downloaded fonts... like all 100 of them

ALL my NAMTA Newsletters and Information (I'm our NAMTA - local branch of MTNA - newsletter editor)

And I'm sure I can go on and on about what was included in those 81,000+ files

First I was devastated about the videos/pictures

Then I was happy I still have my daughter and can make new memories

Then I was furious about my piano studio work

Then I realized about NAMTA and was more furious

Then I was disappointed about the recipes, games, articles, music, and more

I cried

I screamed

I probably hit something

I didn't really sleep much

Monday

We found a local computer tech who was willing to help me recover things

I was still angry

I was still disappointed

I was still upset

I was tired

I got a sore throat

Tuesday

I dropped off the computer, had a great conversation with the tech, and left optimistically hopeful

My chest filled up with snot and my sides got tired of coughing

Wednesday

My computer was still being worked on, but it was progressing

I felt like total poop

I didn't go to church

Thursday

My computer got finished!

He thought it was a failing hard drive

Mike went to pick it up

I went to CVS to buy more Sudafed

Bekah tried to get away from me in the parking lot

I hyper-extended her elbow

We snuggled
She cried

I got almost sick to my stomach

I waited on the phone for over a half an hour with the nurse line

I took Bekah to the clinic

3 hours later we came home

We were hopeful that her elbow was back in place

She was crabby

She napped on me until 7

We missed the 1st Municipal Band Concert in the park

Bekah went to bed

We started working on installing my new hard drive

We stayed up late

I was still optimistic

Friday

We went to take x-rays since Bekah's arm was no better

We saw 3 more doctors

They finally got her elbow to stay in place

We had free pizza at Daddy's work

My tummy hurts from the pizza and the snot

I started opening recovered files to see what we've got

Not much

At least not much important stuff

We have some new videos that hadn't been backed up

We have some pictures that hadn't been backed up

We have Piano Studio bills from 2007

We have a few current .docs

I have some of my clipart

I've not tried to go through the music yet, but there's lots of it

But,

I'm frustrated

We really don't have that much of the really helpful for my business stuff back... like my income and expenses from the year... Like my worksheets and music...

And so

I'm frustrated

Stupid Computers

Stupid everything on computers

Stupid hours of wasted time in making things that are gone

I have to remember that I've got some of the sentimental things back... that I keep track of most of my income in the students' notebooks as well as the computer... that we can put back together, rather closely, the expenses... that I still have my family in tangible, real life... that Bekah's elbow is healing... that my cold will someday go away...

But right now I'm just kind of disappointed

She's Just So Cute

2010-06-02T17:54:00.003-05:00

Bekah is growing and changing so fast - it's hard to believe.

Little Snippets:

This afternoon we were out in the backyard. She wanted to play with her fish (aka the sandbox and sand molds that look like fish). After a while I was tracing letters in the sand and soon she started mimicking me - I'd draw an "A" or a "B" and she'd go "C" while drawing squiggles in the sand.

Later she picked up her bubbles container (empty...) and a ball and she put them into her "purse" (empty sidewalk chalk container). Then she waved at me, yelled "bye-bye," blew me a kiss, ran over and blew Starbuck (the dog) a kiss, and then walked down the driveway. I'm not sure what her mission was, but it was awfully cute :)

Earlier today we were sitting on the couch reading "One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish." After I was done she took the book and kept saying "red fish, red fish, blue..."

This morning I held up two shirts and asked her which she wanted to wear. She put her little pointer finger in her mouth, hummed "ummmm" for a while, and then grabbed them both and put one in the drawer and handed the other back to me.

A few days ago she learned to say "burp" (or more "buupped"). The next evening she tooted, pointed down and said "buuuped"

She loves to type on the keyboard and play the piano, just like Mommy and Daddy. She's usually pretty gentle and uses good posture too!

This afternoon she came to me and said "toot tooot tooooot" (we've learned the difference between toot and burp now...). Then she went and got a clean diaper and said "poopy" Seriously, how old is she?

She can climb up the ladder on our playset (nerve wracking for mom - well, not the climbing up, but the wanting to climb DOWN) and can climb up the slide. She's pretty proud of both achievements and usually claps when she gets to the top.

She can climb into her highchair... And then she prays numerous times - until her food arrives and we pray again - this time Mommy or Daddy has to do it.

She LOVES to call people on the telephone - she will bring me the phone and say "Papa" (grandpa), Tante (Tante Joelle), or other random names.

She took perfectly well to taking her paci at sleeping time only - now when she wakes up she hands her "faffers" (still 3 of them...) to us to put away. And when it's bedtime she asks for them.

She started standing on the loveseat to wave/scream bye-bye at Daddy when he leaves for work.

She talks all the time... about everything... and I can usually understand about 60% of it

I love my little lady - we can't wait to see what God will teach her next!

Giveaway Time ** CLOSED

2010-06-02T13:49:00.003-05:00

How about I host a giveaway - now that I've linked you to so many others!

I've re-opened my Etsy Shop, Iowa Beads!! You can see the link to my shop on the right sidebar.

I'm giving away ONE FREE SET OF EARRINGS TO ONE LUCKY WINNER

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory 1st Entry - Post a comment below with your favorite pair of earrings from my site

Optional 2nd Entry - Heart Iowa Beads on Etsy and let me know you did by commenting with your user name below

Optional 3rd Entry - Comment below with your favorite number - Mine is 21

Good Luck!!

The contest will close on Sunday, June 6th around naptime!

Be sure to leave an email address if yours isn't available from your blog profile.

You don't need to be a blogger to win - simply leave a comment with your email address :)

Do You Hoover?

2010-05-24T10:15:00.001-05:00

One Scrappy Mom has got a Hoover Floormate Giveaway going on!

Check it out :)

Another Giveaway :)

2010-05-21T13:45:00.001-05:00

Step2 is giving away a Naturally Playful Countryside Cottage over at a Bittersweet Existence right now!

Hop over for your chance to win!

Sin Nature Made Public

2010-05-21T09:01:00.002-05:00

My sweet daughter has a sin nature.

No, this isn't a new revelation. We've been well aware of this flawed nature since her birth: selfishness, rudeness, meanness, and now a new one - lying.

In about 30 seconds yesterday, Bekah found the under the sink kitchen cupboard open, pulled out the parchment paper, set out all the cleaning supplies, and emptied the baggies out...

When mommy saw the mess and said "Bekah, who made this mess?" she looked up and very seriously said "Tucker." Tucker is one of the boys we babysit.

He doesn't come to our house on Thursday.

Ah Bekah... More flawed human traits we need to ask the Lord to change in you!!!

She's Growing!

2010-05-19T14:24:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official... Bekah is growing!

She is now big enough to reach the volume contol on her radio... She's big enough to turn it WAY up when she should be sleeping...

What a stinker!

Isaac Newton - a Christian Encounters book - by Mitch Stokes

2010-05-18T12:57:00.003-05:00

This little book is a quick introduction into the life of Issac Newton.

At first when I received this book I was hesitant to start reading it. The author, Mitch Stokes, has a Ph.D. in philosophy, an M.A in religion, and an M.S. in mechanical engineering. I do not have any training in the high sciences, nor do I ever want to! I was worried that perhaps the book would be stuffy and difficult for me to read.

After I began reading I was quickly surprised! It was an easy read (at only 168 small pages) and written for a layman (such as myself) to get a quick grasp of Isaac Newton's life - both his faith and science!

Mitch Stokes does an excellent job of conveying scientific items in a way that, although I don't understand them, I was able to "get" while reading.

Isaac Newton felt that "to be constantly engaged in studying and probing into God's actions was true worship (page 44)." Although I may not be able to study and probe in the way a genius such as Newton could, I was encouraged by his diligence towards learning about the world we live in.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the great scientist Newton, or anyone curious about how many of the beliefs we hold as fact came to be.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Our Favorites

2010-05-17T09:53:00.000-05:00

My daughter has more favorite podcasts than I do. Ridiculous. I'd never even LISTENED to a podcast until a few weeks ago!

Since we have 2 computers in our office area, I've found that sometimes it's very helpful to put a podcast on daddy's computer to keep a certain little busy one busy AWAY from mommy's computer!

Here's Bekah's list of favorite video podcasts (and I apologize that I'm having technical difficulties making it impossible for me to link you to these podcasts right now... They're on iTunes... I promise!)

1) Sesame Street
They have a bunch of "Word on the Street" podcasts - featuring famous people. These run about 5 minutes each and are usually just right for giving a couple of minutes of downtime!

2) The Land of Nod Nodcast
Bekah thinks these randomly goofy old musician guys are hilarious. I love Land of Nod's products. So, even though I find the songs silly, these 10 minute clips are great for entertaining Bekah.

3) The Good Night Show
This is made by Sprout TV - apparently a toddler/preschool all cartoon all the time PBS station that we don't have here (thankfully!). These little 3 minute clips are rather quiet and peaceful.

4) Hooked on Phonics
We haven't really watched any of these yet, but we've downloaded all their Pre-K songs - they aren't long but might be catchy?!

And for mommy's favorite - I've been loving all of the Quick and Dirty Tips by the Mighty Mommy, The Nutrition Diva, and The House Call Doctor. These little 5 minute or show audio podcasts are fun and insightful!

Enjoy :)

Overreaction at its Best

2010-05-16T14:42:00.000-05:00

Have you noticed our tendency to overreact in this country?

I have been especially mindful of this tendency in the last few days:

1) Yesterday when I woke up with red, scratchy eyes I immediately called the clinic to schedule an appointment since pink eye has already gone through Bekah and Mike. By the time I'd sat in the room for 40 minutes (with an 18 month old...) and the doctor came in I realized that I had overreacted. My eyes weren't really red anymore and were only mildly itchy. But, then the doctor also proved this point: He barely looked in my eyes (as in, didn't touch or examine them at all), said "it's maybe viral, but since everyone else in the family had it I'll just prescribe you some drops. Where do you want the prescription sent?" Seriously?!? That was it?!? All that time, all that for... maybe you could use these drops... Needless to say, I didn't fill the prescription and am fine today. Next time I need to wait a little longer before overreacting and calling the clinic on something so trivial (NOT going to calm my desire to overreact when my daughter's sick though - not willing to give up that one!)

2) Lately you might have been hearing many of dangers and risks of using baby slings. I sure have! I found it quite interesting that after all the hype, I read in the June 2010 Parents Magazine (page 44) that the USCPSC is investigating 14 sling-related deaths over the past 20 years. Okay. Um. Doesn't it seem a little extreme that we've all heard the HORRORS OF SLINGS and how we must exert extra caution when using them... I'm sorry about the 14 deaths. But, I'm a mom who actually pays attention to my child whether in or our of a sling. And is 14 deaths over 20 years really something to be so worried about? Don't more people die of food poisoning or bee stings or falls or other things that are seemingly "harmless"

Taco Casserole

2010-05-15T08:14:00.000-05:00

This is a family favorite we've adapted from a recipe my mom shared back when I was pregnant with Bekah

1 lb ground beef, cooked
1 can tomato soup
1 package taco seasoning
1 can black beans, rinsed
Mix together

Cover the bottom of a 9x13 pan with crushed up tortilla chips

Pour the beef mixture over the chips

Cover the beef mixture with a cup or two of cottage cheese

Cover the cottage cheese with a cup or two of shredded cheese

Bake, covered at 350F for about 45 minutes.

Enjoy with tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, salsa... Any taco toppings!

Thanks for the Bike Helmet Help!!!

2010-05-14T18:06:00.002-05:00

Thanks for the help ladies!

This morning following our NAMTA (local MTNA) Piano Teacher's Meeting and Scholarship Audition we headed to Bike Tech, the local bike shop.

We found a cute helmet just for Bekah.

She refused to try it on.

REFUSED.

Had an entire meltdown.

Freaked out.

Wow.

So the nice girl in the shop taught me how to adjust the helmet, we purchased it, and on we went.

Bekah held her "hat" the whole way home, box and all.

After lunch we tried it on, got it fitting well.

After naptime we headed out for a ride to test out the "hat"

She's a fan.

It's so cute!

I'll have to share a picture ASAP.

Thanks again!! Now we're safer while we're being healthier :)

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-14T13:58:00.002-05:00

We had a pretty low key day since we were all recovering from the plague.

We went to church and then went to let one of our pastor's dog outside. I ran to Panera to pick up lunch while Mike and Bekah came home and played outside. After lunch the girls took a 3 hour nap and daddy did ALL the dishes - cleaned, dried, and put them away!!!! After naptime we took a short bikeride since we weren't up to 100% strength yet! After supper Bekah went to bed and daddy ran to church to help out there with some tear down. Then he came home and gave mommy a hot stone massage.

All in all a beautiful day together with my family!!! Nothing fancy, nothing expensive, just a special, relaxing day!

AND I FORGOT TO TAKE ANY PICTURES WITH THE LITTLE BEAUTY THAT MADE ME A MOMMY!!! WHAT WAS I THINKING?!?

Bike Helmet Help!!

2010-05-13T17:52:00.000-05:00

Do you have your toddlers in helmets when riding in the bike trailer or on the bike baby seat?

If so, where did you find your little helmets?!

Bekah-isms

2010-05-13T08:03:00.000-05:00

"Ktay"
Translation: Okay
Usage: Mommy or Daddy ask something that requires an affirmative answer, this is it

"Beebee"
Translation: Baby
Usage: Anytime a live baby (or child - usually up to about age 2) or picture of a baby is seen or a doll is played with

"Pees"
Translation: Please
Usage: Frequently used properly without prompting, accompanied by ASL sign

"Taankee"
Translation: Thank You
Usage: Again, frequently used properly without prompting, also accompanied by ASL sign

"NighNighttt"
Translation: Good Night, Bed, Sleepy, Blanket
Usage: Depends on the circumstance

"Biper"
Translation: Diaper
Usage: Sometimes to alert mommy to a wet or dirty diaper, sometimes when a clean diaper is pulled out of the drawer

"Jewss"
Translation: Juice
Usage: When thirsty or when she sees a cup. One of my favorites! Her little voice saying jeeeeewws is so cute!

"Show"
Translation: TV Show, Wii Game, Movie on the Computer
Usage: Whenever there's something to watch or she wants to watch something. Said very succinctly and pointed

"Ahpul"
Translation: Apple
Usage: Whenever she sees an apple, onion, pepper, or anything else that resembles an apple

It was a Dark and Stormy Afternoon...

2010-05-12T18:08:00.002-05:00

We've been having some intense thunderstorms this afternoon! Thankfully it wasn't anywhere near warm enough to cause severe weather and it didn't start until Bekah woke up from her nap!

After Cooper and Tucker (the boys we watch 2x a week) left the storms really started picking up! Since we're in "No Show" mode (after Bekah becoming so attached to the TV during the recent family illnesses that she CONSTANTLY asks, no DEMANDS a "show") I asked Bekah to get a book. For a while she just ignored me and played on her own while I read my book. Eventually she brought me a Step 2 Reader about Thanksgiving - random! She brought me the book, said "booook, peees, mama," and climbed up into my lap (and under the fuzzy blanket) for a story. After we learned all about the Pilgrims and the Indians we found some free Toddler Aps on Daddy's iPod Touch and played with those for a while.

Quite an enjoyable way to spend some time on a dark afternoon.

18 Month Anger

2010-05-12T10:59:00.002-05:00

Bekah has caught on...

The paci lives in the crib only
Not in the diaper bag
Not in the upstairs
Not on the couch
In the crib only

We started on Monday. She didn't really well actually. When I got her into her jammies and ready for bedtime snuggles she turned and looked at me and said "faffers" while nodding - just to be sure I'd give it to her!

Tuesday was super. She never asked for them until I put her into bed.

Today is another story. It's day 3 of wind, rain, and freezing nasty weather = no outside play and no happy sunshine. It's also day 3 of no "faffers." Thanks to this winning combination we have an angry toddler on our hands. She's not sure if she's tired, sad, happy, mad, or just plain crabby.

It's pathetic.

It's cute.

It's maddening!

I'm a Winner Again

2010-05-11T13:19:00.002-05:00

This time it's something pretty exciting I think!

A Pipila Portable Pacifier Sanitizer from Wishing Penny!!

This is going to be so handy - I won't have to WASH and DRY and hope they're clean :)

Thanks guys!

Forced Fasting

2010-05-08T17:38:00.002-05:00

Perhaps we've found our new weight loss secret...

Forced Fasting

AKA the flu

Mike came down with it on Thursday morning and by Thursday night I wasn't feeling the best either!

Thankfully he's pretty much back to normal today, I'm at least able to eat somethings, and Bekah has been a pretty good little girl most of the time.

The Results

2010-05-05T19:42:00.002-05:00

Once and for all I've been assured (by a doctor I like and trust a lot!) that my thyroid isn't acting abnormally.

Once and for all I've learned that the only way I can hope to lose the extra and feel better about myself and my body is to workout - MORE than I have been. Like 30 minutes a day instead of every other day. Like cardio instead of simply strength. Oh, and to be sure to stock up on the fruits and veggies (okay with me - it's spring for goodness sake!!).

Well, at least it's not weight that CAN'T come off... Now let's get there!

So Excited

2010-05-03T12:58:00.002-05:00

I'm a winner... twice over again!

Wowie.

I guess I've had a few lucky days this past week.

Thankfully!

They make up for the fact that my dear 18M old got her first stomach flu, and felt led to spew all her tummy contents on her mommy... her mommy that's deathly afraid of vomiting.

She's on the mend!
Daddy's healthy!
Mommy's hoping she's healthy!
Phew.

At least I have a few things to be super excited for!

I won a Bryer's YoCrunch 4-Pack Coupon
and
I won a $50 off $100 Old Navy Coupon (thankfully we DIDN'T buy anything on Saturday!)

Oh Boy

2010-05-01T18:34:00.000-05:00

There

I said it

I'm trying to lose weight

There

I wrote it

I'm 40+ over my tiniest adult life weight

There

I admitted it

I would like to see results - better than I am

Yikes

I told you

Now you're going to keep me accountable, aren't you

Shoot

:)

Fitness Kick

2010-05-01T09:29:00.000-05:00

Wow - I've really been on a fitness kick these last few days, haven't I?

Well, you see... I'm really on a quest towards better health and wellness.

Before Bekah was even conceived I was weighing in 20+ lbs over my beloved wedding weight!

Now that my "baby weight" time has definitely come and gone I'm weighing in about 40+ lbs that untouchable wedding weight.

My blood sugar is too high

My pants are too tight

My tummy has no room to expand more for another baby

It's time to get this fixed

Lucky for me we have friends who are all joining together in a little friendly competition towards weight loss and exercise goals!

So, in an effort to become healthier (or really, just to stay in the club!!) I'm working out at least 90 minutes a week and trying to lose the lbs.

Unfortunately for me I'm only about 1 lb closer to my goal... After a couple months of work. It's frustrating! But, THIS WEEK is going to be it - I'm going to hop over the hump and start seeing results.

If not I might have to indulge myself in a big bag of... um... carrot sticks?!

Your Turn: How Do You Burn?

2010-04-30T09:28:00.000-05:00

What's your favorite burn session? DVD, MP3, Game, Partner...

I'm always looking for more inspiration!

Favorite Ways to Burn...

2010-04-29T21:19:00.000-05:00

...Walking with the dog, baby, and hubby

...Rock Hard Abs

...Cardio Callanetics

...Wii Fit Plus

...The Abs Diet for Women Workout DVD

...chasing Bekah everywhere

...Chico

...Denise's Pilates for Every Body

Can you tell I like variety?
I also am a big fan of the local library - it keeps my DVD collection ever changing, every challenging, every interesting!

Could It Be True?

2010-04-28T09:16:00.000-05:00

I have been hearing rumors that you can boost your metabolism by drinking water.

Seriously?

That seems too easy.

Although, not really all that easy seeing as I don't usually crave a glass of water.

Yes, I've been known to mention my desire for a "big glass of drink," but water isn't usually the drink I think of...

According to Bellybar by NutraBella - you can boost your metabolism by up to 3% by drinking 8 glasses of water every day.

Okay.

You've got me.

I'll give it a try.

Winner!

2010-04-27T21:15:00.000-05:00

I won a giveaway!

It's been a long time since I won something :)

I received my UPS package today with a laptop case (we don't have a laptop), a little etch-a-sketch, a calendar, and a coupon for a free Simply Gogurt package!

Yay.

Super fun!

Thoughts

2010-04-18T21:32:00.002-05:00

I've learned a few things since I graduated college - that wonderful institution of higher learning...

... college adulthood isn't the same as adulthood

... Cafeteria food isn't all that bad - no prep, no mess, no clean-up

... bills are much more real in the real world... and much bigger too

... life changes in ways that don't always make sense

... suddenly those "money problems" you thought were big (you know... do I have enough cash to hit the theater...) sound so beautifully refreshing

After talking with a colleague this weekend at a clinic, we decided that it would be really nice to go back to college, to enjoy the studying and the friends and the lack of commitments and stress (even though during college of course I thought that I had too much studying, not enough friends, and way too many commitments and stresses). You know, there are many parts I don't miss at all and there are so many things I love about my life now! But, there are those days that going back to the simpler life would be nice...

Giveaway Alert

2010-04-12T22:50:00.001-05:00

Over at "Deal"ectile Mommies they're giving away a Britax Blink Stroller

I am in serious love with that stroller

Something little

Something light

Something worthwhile

Mmmm...

Hop on over and enter for a chance to win :)

Hiatus...

2010-04-12T22:25:00.002-05:00

Well, I have been missing from the blogging world for a while.

Sorry about that!

Between piano lessons, an active toddler, and a busy Easter weekend at church I guess I haven't had a lot of spare time to come up with something new to blog about.

I'm working on some new piano studio ideas for the summer and fall. I'll keep you posted on those in case any of you are interested in that!

I'm also working on our budget in my brain again. We've got a system. I can't seem to stick to it very well. I spend too much time looking at sites like Ebay and Amazon, dreaming too much, becoming too dissatisfied with what I have, and wishing for things I don't need. Ugh. Will I ever learn?

We had a fun weekend with Grandma and Taunte visiting. It was nice to eat out (thanks Mom!!), play, and have a free babysitter in house for a couple of days! Now, will my little sleeping beauty stay sleeping until she is no longer sleep deprived... Only time will tell.

Otitus Media II

2010-03-29T18:07:00.002-05:00

It's true.

Bekah is recovering from round two of otitus media.

How frustrating.

After a surprise visit to Urgent Care in Buffalo, MN last Sunday morning she was diagnosed again.

5 days into the amoxicillin we noticed a problem. Namely a nasty rash covering her little body. The CNP noticed another problem - the otitus media was still ravaging my little lady.

Now, 5 days later we're hoping the azithromycin course has completely fixed the problem.

Poor little dear. To think she's probably been suffering from this same infection for 2 months...

Otitus media is just the fancy name for a middle ear infection.
Another one of those things you never might have known before motherhood.

Yes Jesus Loves Me

2010-03-27T20:16:00.001-05:00

Our nighttime ritual is just a little more special now...

This week Bekah started singing along with "Jesus Loves Me" - in fact, she started singing the song before all the books were finished being read...

How sweet is that!

Tonight we also followed up with a few verses of "This Little Light of Mine" - always a favorite!

Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a 16 Month Old IV

2010-03-25T08:36:00.004-05:00

Time flies too fast. Treasure each moment for itself.

Just one year ago today I took this little picture.

A whole year has passed by since I took this little picture.

BOTH of those sentences describe how the past year has gone - so fast, yet so slow.

We're learning to treasure each and every moment - trying not to waste the here and now with thoughts of better or worse or different or... days to come.

In my daughter's eyes I am a hero
I am strong and wise and I know no fear
But the truth is plain to see
She was sent to rescue me
I see who I wanna be
In my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes everyone is equal
Darkness turns to light and the
world is at peace
This miracle God gave to me
gives me strength when I am weak
I find reason to believe
In my daughter's eyes

And when she wraps her hand
around my finger
It puts a smile in my heart
Everything becomes a little clearer
I realize what life is all about

It's hangin' on when your heart
has had enough
It's giving more when you feel like giving up
I've seen the light
It's in my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes I can see the future
A reflection of who I am and what will be
Though she'll grow and someday leave
Maybe raise a family
When I'm gone I hope you see how happy
she made me
For I'll be there
In my daughter's eyes

Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a 16 Month Old III

2010-03-24T08:27:00.003-05:00

Always remember that some of the most mundane, everyday tasks really can be quite amazing.

Take for example my daughter's absolute joy in using the potty. Well, rather sitting on the potty since I don't think anything's actually ever exited her body into the toilet... It's a thrill. It's really exciting. It feels funny and cold on your little tushy and legs. It lets you check our your bellybutton unencumbered. It lets everyone know what a big girl you are. It gets mommy really excited when you go in the bathroom, try to take off your pants and stand next to the potty. It gets daddy to come and look and smile. It lets you see your feet at an angle that can be hard to achieve on dry land. It gives you a whole new view of the TP dispenser. It makes you feel more grown up than ever before.

Before you had a name or opened up your eyes,
Or anyone could recognize your face.
You were being formed so delicate in size
Secluded in God’s safe and hidden place.
With your tiny hands and
Little tiny feet
And little eyes that shimmer like a pearl.
He breathed in you a song and to make it all complete
He brought the masterpiece into the world.
You are a masterpiece
And now you’re growing up your
Life’s a miracle
Every time I look at you,
I stand in awe

Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a 16 Month Old II

2010-03-23T20:20:00.000-05:00

Even though the process might stink, learning things the hard way is usually the most effective way.

My darling daughter really has a strong desire to learn. She's curious. She's busy. She's independent. She's risky. She is not, however, quick to listen. We've been learning that sometimes what should be fixed with a simple "yes momma" is instead fixed after numerous hand spanks, tears, tantrums, throwing things, crying, and then comforting forgiveness... But, strangely enough, most of the things she's punished for rarely happen twice.

Health Care... Hm...

2010-03-22T20:00:00.002-05:00

I'll be the first to admit...
I AM NOT A POLITICIAN, INTERESTED IN BECOMING A POLITICIAN, OR RELATED TO A POLITICIAN

I'll be the first to admit...
I DON'T UNDERSTAND THE VAST WORKINGS OF GOVERNMENT, NOR AM I INTERESTED IN UNDERSTANDING IT FULLY

I'll be the first to admit...
I DON'T LIKE BIG GOVERNMENT

I'm a conservative Christian in favor of smaller, cheaper, moral government
I'm a conservative Christian in favor of clearly defined government
I'm a conservative Christian in favor of fixing things like unemployment, health care, education
I'm a conservative Christian in favor of being allowed to freely live the American Dream without big government running (or ruining) my dream

I don't understand all of the changes that this new health care reform will bring
I've visited all the government run websites today and must say it all sounds great - no more debt for me over medical issues, no more spending so much of our paychecks on insurance, more ethical treatment from doctors...

But what I don't see bothers me.

Where are the price tags? For me, for my country, for my country's debt?
How many choices will I really have? Will my children have?
Why does the government feel they must control big business insurance companies?

I don't understand it
I don't like it

Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a 16 Month Old

2010-03-22T08:12:00.002-05:00

It's important to stand up for what's right, even if by standing up you're not doing the popular thing.

I learned this from my 16 month old who fearlessly punched a 2 year old in the forehead when he poured water on her head...
She was telling him to stop in her own language.
He listened much better than he listened to my words of gentle reminder.

Seriously though, I don't really condone punching, but getting the point across even when it's not the easiest or most PC way might not always be such a bad thing...

The Changing Times

2010-03-21T18:11:00.003-05:00

Bekah isn't as afraid of the phone anymore.
She loves to hold it in the crick of her neck and say "hi... hyyyyiiiiiiiiiiii... HIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII"
Even when someone talks back it's still fun to keep talking!

Bekah loves to walk outside.
She thinks it's thrilling to get all the way down the step, across the driveway, into the garage, and by her car door all by herself.

Bekah is gaining independence everyday.
She thinks she should be allowed to walk alone at all times - even in a busy parking lot.
Where did my baby go?

Bekah has a favorite Podcast.
Until 3 weeks ago I'D never listened to a podcast.
Sesame Street has short video clips available for free on iTunes - what a blessing.

Bekah's verbal skills increase exponentially.
Everyday there are new words or things she tries to communicate.
And each day her sentences (even when I haven't a clue what she's saying) get longer and more involved - she even uses gestures now.

Bekah still loves her shoes, socks, and feet.
Right now she is smelling the inside of her left shoe.
And now she's biting the velcro... Don't ask me where she got that idea!!

Bekah has discovered the world of bubbles.
Magically shiny orbs that float and then pop.
Thrilling stuff, really!

Bekah's hair has a life of its own.
Until this week, it's had small curly tendencies.
Now it's a wild mess of blonde on top of her tiny little head.

And for your viewing pleasure let me share a shot of Bekah inspecting the Sunday Bulletin back on February 28th...

3.20.09

2010-03-20T09:21:00.002-05:00

I was looking through picture files getting ready for a post next week (hint: 3.25.10) and found this adorable video. It's too cute to keep to myself :)

Your Turn: How Do You Pay It Off?!?

2010-03-20T08:58:00.000-05:00

Do you have any practical suggestions for paying off debt

How about a personal testimony or word of encouragement

Maybe a handy dandy tip towards frugality

I'd love to hear you thoughts!