I'm trying really hard to think of nothing as my own but everything as God's. This is especially true of our garden. 2 summers ago I went to a CIY conference in Michigan and was given a "challenge" card. Basic concept is you are given a sealed envelope. If you can commit to doing anything and everything for God, open the card and do whatever it said. But you had to do what it said. If you choose not to open it, no harm no foul.
My card challenged me to plant a garden and give all of the "fruits" to those less fortunate or in need. I couldn't plant a garden that summer. It was too far into the summer and I would not have been able to grow anything, so it was written on my un-ending "summer to-do list". Last summer I was committed to doing a garden and with some help from Thadd and Jordan, we succeeded. Our garden was 16'x16'. Not a bad size at all for a first year garden. We had tomatoes, pickle cucumbers, pumpkins, watermelon, squash and a few other things. It was a success and we loved doing it. We decided this year to extend the garden 8 ft and plant different and more things. It has, so far, been a giant success.
Our goal is to give it all away. We have enough tomato plants to give most away and keep some for spaghetti sauce and whatnot. This year we have banana peppers, jalapeno peppers, green peppers, green beans, carrots, cabbage, onions, acorn squash, pickle cucumbers, tomatoes, corn and pumpkins. It is huge. We have given away so much stuff already it is crazy. It is great that God has blessed this endeavor way more than ever imagined. We are so excited to share this gift with others as well.
If anyone out there in blog land is in the area and would like some fresh veggies, you are more than welcome to come over.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Man, It's hot...
There, I said it. I am doing my best to not complain about the heat but it is really hard. I can't help but think of winter and the cold, spring and the rain and fall and the wind. We sure do complain a lot.
I'm trying to be thankful for the weather we have. It could always be worse, right? Admittedly, I do horrible in the heat. My face feels like it is going to explode because of allergies and I get hives as soon as I walk outside. The hotter it is, the worse it is. I become super whiny and miserable. I get the same way during the winter when there is no sun for weeks on end (minus the allergies and hives).
I would love to live in perfect weather. Sunny all the time, 70's everyday and 50's at night. That would be perfect to me. Cooler in the evening and morning, and really no bugs. Oh, I hate mosquitoes. The reality is, I think that is what heaven is going to be like. Bright everyday (will there be a "sun" in heaven?), no bugs and just plain perfect. Really, thinking about Heaven like this makes me wonder about it. Like, IS there a sun, moon or stars? Is there a day and night? Do you sleep in Heaven? Ah, all of these things I think about...
I'm trying to be thankful for the weather we have. It could always be worse, right? Admittedly, I do horrible in the heat. My face feels like it is going to explode because of allergies and I get hives as soon as I walk outside. The hotter it is, the worse it is. I become super whiny and miserable. I get the same way during the winter when there is no sun for weeks on end (minus the allergies and hives).
I would love to live in perfect weather. Sunny all the time, 70's everyday and 50's at night. That would be perfect to me. Cooler in the evening and morning, and really no bugs. Oh, I hate mosquitoes. The reality is, I think that is what heaven is going to be like. Bright everyday (will there be a "sun" in heaven?), no bugs and just plain perfect. Really, thinking about Heaven like this makes me wonder about it. Like, IS there a sun, moon or stars? Is there a day and night? Do you sleep in Heaven? Ah, all of these things I think about...
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
It's been 2 years...
So I have been thinking about getting back into the "blogging" world again. I follow a few really great sites and wonder if maybe deleting Facebook would allow me to blog more (and provide less drama).
My last blog post was about Jordan. I am happy to say that Jordan is still a huge part of our family and it has been almost 2 years. He has grown so much in these past few years and we are beyond proud of his accomplishments. He is actually starting college in the fall. We have a college in our town and they offer a co-op program with the high school. So Jordan will go half day to high school and half day to college. When he graduates high school he will have some of his mechanics certifications for the state and will have to take about a year of community college to have all of his certifications. He is very excited and proud to see where he has come from.
Elijah is growing like crazy and is still quite the ladies man. He is a twinkle in my eye. He learns new things everyday and cracks me up frequently. He is handsome, and will look at himself in the mirror and say it. He has his father's personality and his mother's features. And really, he brings joy to everyone he meets. I don't know if he will be a genius or the next sports super-sensation but in his mama's mind he will be. I look forward to seeing him grow into an amazing man someday.
We are still in Michigan and have bought a house. We have gotten a new dog and some fish. I have had 2 "new" jobs since my last post and am hopeful with this job we will be out of all debt in 3 years (including the house). We have been on the receiving end of God's blessings more than we can count and usually see it after the fact.
I hope to continue to post and hope that it will bring joy to someones life.
My last blog post was about Jordan. I am happy to say that Jordan is still a huge part of our family and it has been almost 2 years. He has grown so much in these past few years and we are beyond proud of his accomplishments. He is actually starting college in the fall. We have a college in our town and they offer a co-op program with the high school. So Jordan will go half day to high school and half day to college. When he graduates high school he will have some of his mechanics certifications for the state and will have to take about a year of community college to have all of his certifications. He is very excited and proud to see where he has come from.
Elijah is growing like crazy and is still quite the ladies man. He is a twinkle in my eye. He learns new things everyday and cracks me up frequently. He is handsome, and will look at himself in the mirror and say it. He has his father's personality and his mother's features. And really, he brings joy to everyone he meets. I don't know if he will be a genius or the next sports super-sensation but in his mama's mind he will be. I look forward to seeing him grow into an amazing man someday.
We are still in Michigan and have bought a house. We have gotten a new dog and some fish. I have had 2 "new" jobs since my last post and am hopeful with this job we will be out of all debt in 3 years (including the house). We have been on the receiving end of God's blessings more than we can count and usually see it after the fact.
I hope to continue to post and hope that it will bring joy to someones life.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Welcome to the Family!
It has been a whirlwind two weeks. I don't know where I should start....
A little over two weeks ago we were approached by a parent of one of our students. Long story super short, she wanted to give us guardianship of her 14 year old son. At this point, her reasoning doesn't matter. He was not in a good situation and when Thadd and I started dating we agreed that we will always open our home to our students and whatever situations they might be in. God is funny about things you are willing to do. He usually takes your "ideas" of what it will be like and totally throw a little extra in to take you out of your comfort zone. :-)
So needless to say, we now have a 14 year old son named Jordan. For all of you math majors out there, he is 14 years younger than me and yes, that means I would have had him towards the end of my 8th grade year. We have a hearing for permanent guardianship on September 30th. Currently we do have power of attorney over him. Please pray for this transition for both Jordan and us. Pray that his parents do not cause a problem for this to happen (we do not anticipate this happening, but it still doesn't hurt to pray). Elijah already loves him and loves it when Jordan plays with him. They get along great.
I admit, raising a 14 year old is completely different than a 1 year old. There is so much that we have to learn with him that we haven't had the last 14 years to work up to. We went home this weekend to introduce Jordan to family and while at a restaurant I saw a girl that I graduated high school with. She saw Elijah and asked if he was my son and I proceeded to introduce Thadd as my husband and Jordan and Elijah as my sons. I sure did get quite the puzzling look from her. You could see the wheels spinning trying to remember me being pregnant. I laughed.
We know that God has placed Jordan in our lives for a reason. Hopefully he will find comfort and stability in our home. He has accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior. Hopefully he will also grow his relationship with HIM through all of this as well.
A little over two weeks ago we were approached by a parent of one of our students. Long story super short, she wanted to give us guardianship of her 14 year old son. At this point, her reasoning doesn't matter. He was not in a good situation and when Thadd and I started dating we agreed that we will always open our home to our students and whatever situations they might be in. God is funny about things you are willing to do. He usually takes your "ideas" of what it will be like and totally throw a little extra in to take you out of your comfort zone. :-)
So needless to say, we now have a 14 year old son named Jordan. For all of you math majors out there, he is 14 years younger than me and yes, that means I would have had him towards the end of my 8th grade year. We have a hearing for permanent guardianship on September 30th. Currently we do have power of attorney over him. Please pray for this transition for both Jordan and us. Pray that his parents do not cause a problem for this to happen (we do not anticipate this happening, but it still doesn't hurt to pray). Elijah already loves him and loves it when Jordan plays with him. They get along great.
I admit, raising a 14 year old is completely different than a 1 year old. There is so much that we have to learn with him that we haven't had the last 14 years to work up to. We went home this weekend to introduce Jordan to family and while at a restaurant I saw a girl that I graduated high school with. She saw Elijah and asked if he was my son and I proceeded to introduce Thadd as my husband and Jordan and Elijah as my sons. I sure did get quite the puzzling look from her. You could see the wheels spinning trying to remember me being pregnant. I laughed.
We know that God has placed Jordan in our lives for a reason. Hopefully he will find comfort and stability in our home. He has accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior. Hopefully he will also grow his relationship with HIM through all of this as well.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
In a Nutshell...
There have been so many times I have thought about blogging...however, it has been just that, a thought.
There have been so many things recently to blog about. I was talking to my grandma today on the phone and I was telling her about all the new things Elijah is doing. I know that he is just developmentally growing leaps and bounds. However, I feel that this past month (June) has been such a huge month for him. Allow me to gush with pride.
Elijah has learned to crawl. But not crawl a little bit, he has actually discovered that he can crawl through one side of the bouncer and he will end up in the other side. He is just everywhere. He also got another tooth. That now totals 7! It's ridiculous. He has started to eat more solid foods. Right now we are only giving him fruits and veggies but he still thinks that most of them are amazing. He also now pulls himself up on us. This one cracks me up because every time he seems so surprised that he did it.
I have truly enjoyed being a mom. So much more than I ever thought imaginable. I've got that "Ican'tstoptalkingaboutmykid" syndrome. I try not to all the time, but it is hard.
June was also a big month for both Thadd and I. On June 28, we had to put our awesome dog to sleep. When we returned from a trip with our students we found that he had injured his back sometime while we were gone and was paralyzed by the time we came home. We rushed him to the Doggie Emergency Room but the only option was surgery and there was only a 50/50 chance that he would ever walk again. We just couldn't bear to watch him suffer and the cost of the surgery was outrageous. So at almost 7 years old, our dear Francis went to where ever it is that the "good doggies go". It's been an adjustment for all three of us as well as our other dog Envy. He was her buddy and she is lost without him. He was a lot of firsts for us. Our first dog. Our first responsibility. Our first major purchase....It is still hard...
We are nearly halfway through the summer already and we are over halfway through the year. We are looking forward to what the rest of the year has in store for us as a family and for our church as well.
There have been so many things recently to blog about. I was talking to my grandma today on the phone and I was telling her about all the new things Elijah is doing. I know that he is just developmentally growing leaps and bounds. However, I feel that this past month (June) has been such a huge month for him. Allow me to gush with pride.
Elijah has learned to crawl. But not crawl a little bit, he has actually discovered that he can crawl through one side of the bouncer and he will end up in the other side. He is just everywhere. He also got another tooth. That now totals 7! It's ridiculous. He has started to eat more solid foods. Right now we are only giving him fruits and veggies but he still thinks that most of them are amazing. He also now pulls himself up on us. This one cracks me up because every time he seems so surprised that he did it.
I have truly enjoyed being a mom. So much more than I ever thought imaginable. I've got that "Ican'tstoptalkingaboutmykid" syndrome. I try not to all the time, but it is hard.
June was also a big month for both Thadd and I. On June 28, we had to put our awesome dog to sleep. When we returned from a trip with our students we found that he had injured his back sometime while we were gone and was paralyzed by the time we came home. We rushed him to the Doggie Emergency Room but the only option was surgery and there was only a 50/50 chance that he would ever walk again. We just couldn't bear to watch him suffer and the cost of the surgery was outrageous. So at almost 7 years old, our dear Francis went to where ever it is that the "good doggies go". It's been an adjustment for all three of us as well as our other dog Envy. He was her buddy and she is lost without him. He was a lot of firsts for us. Our first dog. Our first responsibility. Our first major purchase....It is still hard...
We are nearly halfway through the summer already and we are over halfway through the year. We are looking forward to what the rest of the year has in store for us as a family and for our church as well.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Farewell
This is a letter I plan to send to myspace:
Dear Tom,
I have decided to delete my myspace account, even though I have had one for 4 years. At one time I greatly enjoyed your services. That all changed the day I discovered that, even though you have a policy against it, you allow pornography to be posted on your site. I discovered this because someone on my friends list did just that. I was disgusted and could not believe that you allowed this to be posted.
I did delete that person's profile from my friends list. Even though I can no longer access that site, I'm sure that the pictures are still up there. I cannot run the risk of having more images like this posted again. I feel that if you have a rule in place you should make sure action is taken and that consequences follow. With the millions of dollars this site generates, I would only assume that you would have enough staff to patrol this properly.
I struggle with the fact that there are young kids on your site and could potentially see these images, especially since they are so readily available. I personally know a number of young teens that have accounts with your site. I worry for them and the fact that pornography is so widely accepted in society today. It ruins families, jobs and lives. Any chance I get to tell others what I have discovered on your site, I plan to. Especially parents who come to me and ask me my thoughts on myspace.
This same individual tried to post pictures on Facebook. However, on Facebook they were immediately deleted. I'm going to stick with a site that stays true to their values and rules.
Thank you.
Nicole Sparrow
Dear Tom,
I have decided to delete my myspace account, even though I have had one for 4 years. At one time I greatly enjoyed your services. That all changed the day I discovered that, even though you have a policy against it, you allow pornography to be posted on your site. I discovered this because someone on my friends list did just that. I was disgusted and could not believe that you allowed this to be posted.
I did delete that person's profile from my friends list. Even though I can no longer access that site, I'm sure that the pictures are still up there. I cannot run the risk of having more images like this posted again. I feel that if you have a rule in place you should make sure action is taken and that consequences follow. With the millions of dollars this site generates, I would only assume that you would have enough staff to patrol this properly.
I struggle with the fact that there are young kids on your site and could potentially see these images, especially since they are so readily available. I personally know a number of young teens that have accounts with your site. I worry for them and the fact that pornography is so widely accepted in society today. It ruins families, jobs and lives. Any chance I get to tell others what I have discovered on your site, I plan to. Especially parents who come to me and ask me my thoughts on myspace.
This same individual tried to post pictures on Facebook. However, on Facebook they were immediately deleted. I'm going to stick with a site that stays true to their values and rules.
Thank you.
Nicole Sparrow
Saturday, February 7, 2009
I should really do this more!
I have completely deprived any adoring fans I may have out there by being silent for 2 months. It's not intentional. These past few months have definitely been crazy. I'm hope and plan is to spend time weekly to write down thoughts about life.
I went to a funeral today. I usually can't go to a lot of church members funerals because they are during the week and I cannot get off work. This funeral was quite eye opening on the fragility of life. Although this woman was in her 60's, he was so vibrant and very active in our community and church for many years. However, 10 weeks ago her life changed. You see, she found out 10 weeks ago that she had stage 4 pancreatic cancer that had metastasized to her liver. She tried chemo but it ended up making her sick and it just wasn't worth it. Although she would rally at times, they would be followed up by worse times. Thadd and I figured out today that we last saw her in December at the Bob Evans.
I've only seen more people in our church on Christmas Eve or Easter. I was blown away by how many people were there today to pay their respects. Thadd had to take care of the funeral. It was not the plan but due to a sudden health situation of our senior minister (and a phone call at 6 am) Thadd was called in as a pitch hitter. Fortunately, everything was in place and Thadd could step in seamlessly.
I'm trying to live life with no regrets. I don't want to miss out on anything in life. I've learned with Eli (or Mr. Cheeks) that I cannot take anything for granted. I try to enjoy every second that I spend with him. Life is too short not too.
I went to a funeral today. I usually can't go to a lot of church members funerals because they are during the week and I cannot get off work. This funeral was quite eye opening on the fragility of life. Although this woman was in her 60's, he was so vibrant and very active in our community and church for many years. However, 10 weeks ago her life changed. You see, she found out 10 weeks ago that she had stage 4 pancreatic cancer that had metastasized to her liver. She tried chemo but it ended up making her sick and it just wasn't worth it. Although she would rally at times, they would be followed up by worse times. Thadd and I figured out today that we last saw her in December at the Bob Evans.
I've only seen more people in our church on Christmas Eve or Easter. I was blown away by how many people were there today to pay their respects. Thadd had to take care of the funeral. It was not the plan but due to a sudden health situation of our senior minister (and a phone call at 6 am) Thadd was called in as a pitch hitter. Fortunately, everything was in place and Thadd could step in seamlessly.
I'm trying to live life with no regrets. I don't want to miss out on anything in life. I've learned with Eli (or Mr. Cheeks) that I cannot take anything for granted. I try to enjoy every second that I spend with him. Life is too short not too.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
One Year Ago...
This weekend was a great Christmas time weekend. I baked cookies, we put up the Christmas Tree, and I felt that I channeled my mother while baking.
However, these past few days I have taken a look back at the past year. It was one year ago tomorrow I found out the actual date that I was losing my job. I was given a little more than a month's notice. So I was bummed. I was wondering how God was going to work and what we would do financially after my salary was cut out completely.
When I got home from work my crummy day just kind of continued. It was a rough night. Thadd and I had started to try for a baby a few months before and well, there were signs that we may, in fact, be pregnant.
I took a test in the midst of chaos and found out I was pregnant. It was a time of rejoicing as well as a time of fear and worry. How would we provide for our child? What would happen financially? Would I be a good Mom? I had always wanted to be a stay at home mom, would I be able to?
It's amazing how much your perspective changes once you find out you are pregnant. You see things in a whole new light. I'm more aware of the weather, people with colds, crazies...etc. This past year has been a whirlwind. It's been good, and I'm so blessed with my son, his health and the ability to work only part time. God has truly blessed our year. I'm thankful for that.
However, these past few days I have taken a look back at the past year. It was one year ago tomorrow I found out the actual date that I was losing my job. I was given a little more than a month's notice. So I was bummed. I was wondering how God was going to work and what we would do financially after my salary was cut out completely.
When I got home from work my crummy day just kind of continued. It was a rough night. Thadd and I had started to try for a baby a few months before and well, there were signs that we may, in fact, be pregnant.
I took a test in the midst of chaos and found out I was pregnant. It was a time of rejoicing as well as a time of fear and worry. How would we provide for our child? What would happen financially? Would I be a good Mom? I had always wanted to be a stay at home mom, would I be able to?
It's amazing how much your perspective changes once you find out you are pregnant. You see things in a whole new light. I'm more aware of the weather, people with colds, crazies...etc. This past year has been a whirlwind. It's been good, and I'm so blessed with my son, his health and the ability to work only part time. God has truly blessed our year. I'm thankful for that.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Why do we want to watch other people's live their life?
Thadd has posed this question to me many times. Probably because I'm the one who is into watching reality tv. I don't watch them all the time but I do watch them. I've thought about this question all week. I'm still struggling with an answer. However, on that same note, I do read other people's blogs. I guess that would be along the same lines. Why do people care about what others are doing?
I read a blog the other night that made me laugh. It was a guy that I went to high school with. He's someone I was friends with and like everyone else from high school, I lost contact with until social networking came into play. I'm friends with him on Myspace. Through his myspace I found his blog and I read it occasionally. Mostly to look at his pictures because I think that he is a great photographer. I went to his blog the other day and he made a post about how he doesn't like to accept friends on facebook who he hasn't talked to in years. The irony of this is that he has this very public blog, that is connected with other blogs in the Springfield area, but he doesn't want people to see his facebook?! I laughed. I wondered if he thought of the irony of it all.
So I ask the question, why. Why do we have this whole social networking fad to see what is happening in other peoples lives. I admit, I have had problems adding some people because I never talked to them in college or high school. Simply because I wonder why they care. I was amazed at how many people wanted to be my friend on myspace or facebook after Elijah was born. Maybe they are just using me to look at my cute kid?
I read a blog the other night that made me laugh. It was a guy that I went to high school with. He's someone I was friends with and like everyone else from high school, I lost contact with until social networking came into play. I'm friends with him on Myspace. Through his myspace I found his blog and I read it occasionally. Mostly to look at his pictures because I think that he is a great photographer. I went to his blog the other day and he made a post about how he doesn't like to accept friends on facebook who he hasn't talked to in years. The irony of this is that he has this very public blog, that is connected with other blogs in the Springfield area, but he doesn't want people to see his facebook?! I laughed. I wondered if he thought of the irony of it all.
So I ask the question, why. Why do we have this whole social networking fad to see what is happening in other peoples lives. I admit, I have had problems adding some people because I never talked to them in college or high school. Simply because I wonder why they care. I was amazed at how many people wanted to be my friend on myspace or facebook after Elijah was born. Maybe they are just using me to look at my cute kid?
Thursday, November 6, 2008
So many things, so little time..
I have spent the past few weeks pondering a lot. The decision was made that I would go back to work part time. It's a good thing, but I definitely miss Elijah. So I have spent the past few weeks thinking of going back to work, Elijah at the babysitters and how that will affect him, the election, lia sophia, it just never ends.
I've noticed that since Elijah is getting older, people we know, and don't know for that matter, have become more brass about things with him. We had some random woman come up to him at a resturant the other night and shove his pacifier in his mouth. The funny thing was he was sitting there, content, not making a peep while chewing on his fist. However, this random woman felt that he wanted his pacifier. He, like a great child should, spit it right back out.
I've also noticed that since he is a little older, people at our church is treating him like the church's child. He's not anyone elses child by Thadd and I's. Therefore, please don't take the liberty of taking him out of the nursery. Please don't tell people things that aren't true about his habits, and please, don't touch him without permission. This pertains to all people at the church, not just one or two. Oh and, don't get mad when we don't let you hold him...your old and he weighs a lot. And, I'm done.
The election...oooohhhh such a touchy subject. I'm choosing not to tell people who I voted for. I have found that if you tell people, all they do is bash you for your beliefs or agree with you and bash the other canidate. It's not worth my time. However, regardless of how I voted, I had already made the decision that I would pray and support the president elect regardless. There are things that over the past few days I have heard that have made me laugh though.
NBC actually called Barak Obama a rockstar. I am however a little sad about not seeing Tina Fey on Saturday night live anymore. That was a highlight of the week. I laughed when with like 30% of the votes counted the said that Barak Obama was president. Apparently they all forgot already about the election debackle in 2000. Retards. I guess that John McCain can now retire in one of his 7 houses and act his age. I mean seriously, how hard could all of that travel been on that old body. He might just need another 4 years to recoup that one.
Eh, I should be done. There is so much more. Maybe I will get on here more and post more often.
I've noticed that since Elijah is getting older, people we know, and don't know for that matter, have become more brass about things with him. We had some random woman come up to him at a resturant the other night and shove his pacifier in his mouth. The funny thing was he was sitting there, content, not making a peep while chewing on his fist. However, this random woman felt that he wanted his pacifier. He, like a great child should, spit it right back out.
I've also noticed that since he is a little older, people at our church is treating him like the church's child. He's not anyone elses child by Thadd and I's. Therefore, please don't take the liberty of taking him out of the nursery. Please don't tell people things that aren't true about his habits, and please, don't touch him without permission. This pertains to all people at the church, not just one or two. Oh and, don't get mad when we don't let you hold him...your old and he weighs a lot. And, I'm done.
The election...oooohhhh such a touchy subject. I'm choosing not to tell people who I voted for. I have found that if you tell people, all they do is bash you for your beliefs or agree with you and bash the other canidate. It's not worth my time. However, regardless of how I voted, I had already made the decision that I would pray and support the president elect regardless. There are things that over the past few days I have heard that have made me laugh though.
NBC actually called Barak Obama a rockstar. I am however a little sad about not seeing Tina Fey on Saturday night live anymore. That was a highlight of the week. I laughed when with like 30% of the votes counted the said that Barak Obama was president. Apparently they all forgot already about the election debackle in 2000. Retards. I guess that John McCain can now retire in one of his 7 houses and act his age. I mean seriously, how hard could all of that travel been on that old body. He might just need another 4 years to recoup that one.
Eh, I should be done. There is so much more. Maybe I will get on here more and post more often.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Goin' Home...
It's always nice to say, "I'm going home". I have found that over the years I have multiple "homes". I have my Springfield home. I have my Morris home (even though I have never lived there) and now I have my Owosso home. I'm sure that when I say that I'm going home people probably have no clue which one I'm talking about.
Eli and I are leaving today to go to Illinois for the week. I have two lia sophia shows and some family to see. I'm quite excited. However, I have to be a single parent this week. Thadd is unable to take off work to come so it is just me a E coming home.
The last time I came, I went to surprise my nephew by picking him up at school. A girl walked up to me (I didn't know her) and started asking me questions. The one big question that she asked was if being a parent was hard. She was like 16 years old and I just wanted to tell her of all the reasons she should wait to become a parent (or have sex for that matter). However, I only said this one thing, "I could never be a single mom." Immediately this girl understood me. I told her that it was hard and that my husband was amazing and helped out tons.
I now have looked at my own mother in a new light. She was a single mom raising two kids. I now understand what she sacrificed for us. I think about my nephews mom and other women that I know who are/were single parents. I can't imagine not having someone there to hand E off to when I just need a break. I've tried with the dogs but they always say that they can't because they don't have thumbs.
Pray for our travel...and my sanity. :-)
Eli and I are leaving today to go to Illinois for the week. I have two lia sophia shows and some family to see. I'm quite excited. However, I have to be a single parent this week. Thadd is unable to take off work to come so it is just me a E coming home.
The last time I came, I went to surprise my nephew by picking him up at school. A girl walked up to me (I didn't know her) and started asking me questions. The one big question that she asked was if being a parent was hard. She was like 16 years old and I just wanted to tell her of all the reasons she should wait to become a parent (or have sex for that matter). However, I only said this one thing, "I could never be a single mom." Immediately this girl understood me. I told her that it was hard and that my husband was amazing and helped out tons.
I now have looked at my own mother in a new light. She was a single mom raising two kids. I now understand what she sacrificed for us. I think about my nephews mom and other women that I know who are/were single parents. I can't imagine not having someone there to hand E off to when I just need a break. I've tried with the dogs but they always say that they can't because they don't have thumbs.
Pray for our travel...and my sanity. :-)
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
It's going fast.
I realize that all parents say that it goes by fast, but I never understood what it meant until now. It's hard to believe that Elijah is over 6 weeks old now. It's amazing to watch him grow and reach different milestones. He is holding his head up now and using his legs all the time. When you put him on his stomach he is constantly trying to get his legs underneath him. It's cute to watch.
We went home over this past week. It was good to see tons of people and for him to meet lots of people. He has officially met all but one set of Aunt and Uncles. The other is in Arizona. He has met a lot of his Great Aunts and Uncles. He has now met all grandparents and great grandparents. There were also numerous friends that came to showers and were excited to see him.
Elijah did really well in the car. I was impressed that with putting a 5 week old in a car for over 6 hours he slept basically the whole time with only crying when he was hungry. However, the time change and all that sleep in the car threw off his schedule. So sleeping was a bit of a comedy while we were home.
Being a parent is amazing. Everyday is a new thing and we definitely look forward to sleeping all the way through the night. It will happen....someday.
We went home over this past week. It was good to see tons of people and for him to meet lots of people. He has officially met all but one set of Aunt and Uncles. The other is in Arizona. He has met a lot of his Great Aunts and Uncles. He has now met all grandparents and great grandparents. There were also numerous friends that came to showers and were excited to see him.
Elijah did really well in the car. I was impressed that with putting a 5 week old in a car for over 6 hours he slept basically the whole time with only crying when he was hungry. However, the time change and all that sleep in the car threw off his schedule. So sleeping was a bit of a comedy while we were home.
Being a parent is amazing. Everyday is a new thing and we definitely look forward to sleeping all the way through the night. It will happen....someday.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Long Overdue Update...
The day after my last post, it happened. My water broke...at work. I guess that's what I get for trying to do too much. I had just gotten back from an office lunch and was talking to my boss. I felt a small gush (best way to describe it) and knew that I had not wet myself. I excused myself and went to the bathroom. I quickly realized that what happened wasn't anything I controlled and went back to let my boss know that my water broke.
I then jumped in my car and started my trek to the hospital. By trek I mean a 45 minute drive. I called Thadd, who sort of freaked out, which is to be expected. I then proceeded to drive, above the speed limit, to try to make the 45 minute drive. I took back roads to get to the highway so that there would be less traffic and honestly, drive quicker. I called my mom and dad, both were excited. My mom told me that I shouldn't be driving myself, speeding at 75 on back roads, 95 on highway, and talking on the phone. I told her it was too late.
I made it to the hospital in Owosso in 25 minutes. For all you math majors out there that is a 20 minute slashing of how long it should have taken. I had Thadd pre-register me at the hospital so that I could just come in and go straight to the Maternity ward. Apparently it is a big thing if you drive to the hospital from Lansing when your water broke. Word spread like wild fire and I had a lot of people at the hospital looking out for the crazy lady.
When we got to the Mat. ward we were shuffled into a room and hooked up to monitors. They checked to ensure that my water did in fact break and started all the necessary fluids. I did accept drugs eventually and exactly 12 hours and 8 minutes after my water broke we heard the amazing sound of Elijah crying. It was a beautiful moment when they put him on my chest and we just had our time. For about 5 minutes everything else didn't matter. I honestly kind of forgot that things where still going on.
Exactly three weeks ago he was born. It has completely changed every aspect of my life and I no longer control my time. However, I wouldn't change it for the world. He's a beautiful baby with dark blue eyes and dark hair. It's fun to already style it. I have found that after his nightly bath I can style it and it will remain the same until we give him a bath the next night. He's very content and I feel truly blessed to have him.
If only I could figure something out so I wouldn't have to go back to work....
I then jumped in my car and started my trek to the hospital. By trek I mean a 45 minute drive. I called Thadd, who sort of freaked out, which is to be expected. I then proceeded to drive, above the speed limit, to try to make the 45 minute drive. I took back roads to get to the highway so that there would be less traffic and honestly, drive quicker. I called my mom and dad, both were excited. My mom told me that I shouldn't be driving myself, speeding at 75 on back roads, 95 on highway, and talking on the phone. I told her it was too late.
I made it to the hospital in Owosso in 25 minutes. For all you math majors out there that is a 20 minute slashing of how long it should have taken. I had Thadd pre-register me at the hospital so that I could just come in and go straight to the Maternity ward. Apparently it is a big thing if you drive to the hospital from Lansing when your water broke. Word spread like wild fire and I had a lot of people at the hospital looking out for the crazy lady.
When we got to the Mat. ward we were shuffled into a room and hooked up to monitors. They checked to ensure that my water did in fact break and started all the necessary fluids. I did accept drugs eventually and exactly 12 hours and 8 minutes after my water broke we heard the amazing sound of Elijah crying. It was a beautiful moment when they put him on my chest and we just had our time. For about 5 minutes everything else didn't matter. I honestly kind of forgot that things where still going on.
Exactly three weeks ago he was born. It has completely changed every aspect of my life and I no longer control my time. However, I wouldn't change it for the world. He's a beautiful baby with dark blue eyes and dark hair. It's fun to already style it. I have found that after his nightly bath I can style it and it will remain the same until we give him a bath the next night. He's very content and I feel truly blessed to have him.
If only I could figure something out so I wouldn't have to go back to work....
Friday, August 15, 2008
Before you make your appearance
As I reflect on these last final days of LBB (Life Before Baby) my thoughts are drawn to what I want my child to learn from me. So here are some of the many lessons/ideas swimming around in my mind.
10. Running into walls, movable or stationary, is never recommended
(unless they are padded of course)
9. Be willing to laugh at yourself.
8. Know that God created nature for you to enjoy, so take care of it.
7. Listen to people a little more experienced in life, they just might know what they’re
talking about.
6. When you fall down, know that it’s okay to ask for help to get back up. Just make sure
you get back up.
5. Love other people around you that God brings into your life. Always be willing to serve
and take care of other people’s needs.
4. Love and respect your mother
3. 3. Know that your mommy and I love you very, very much
While 2. While your parents love you, Jesus Loves You much more!
1. Lov 1. Love the LORD your God all the days of your life. Fear God and keep his
comm commandments. (Ez. 12:13)
I’m sure they will be many more lessons and things I will need to teach my child. And I anticipate those teachable moments when something is said or done that will open up an opportunity for him to truly get it. Right now I also pray that I will be open to God’s continual teaching in my life so that I can hand down to my child what God has handed to me.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
2 in one month...Wha??????
It's a miracle. Literally, a miracle. Officially, we are posting twice in a single month. Quite possibly more since I will be home on "vacation" for the next two months.
I'm (Nicole) still working. People think that I'm crazy. I figure that sleep and rest are overrated at the point. I might as well go to work and not dwell on the fact that in a matter of 48 hours I will be in active labor. We are going to be induced on Saturday at 6pm if Elijah decides that he is not ready to come out on his own. The way it's looking, he's in there for as long as he can. I keep trying to let him know that he would have so much more room to wiggle if he would just come out. However, apparently he takes after his father's side of the family and is a little stubborn. Everyone knows that it is definitely not from my side. :-)
We went tonight to have our pictures taken by a friend. She is trying to build her portfolio and did not have any pregnant women pictures. So we gladly obliged and took her up on the free picture offer. However, I did learn that when you are 39 1/2 weeks pregnant, there are some poses that you cannot do. For instance, probably not good to try to get a prenant woman to take pictures on the ground. It was super hard to get back up. Oh, and I had to pose for a picture where I sat on my legs. That one didn't work out so well. I'm super swollen and it just hurt. I can't wait to see the pictures though. They should be good and it will be good to remember two days before L-day.
Definitely looking forward to Elijah being here. His room is done and actually cleaner than the rest of our house. I can't wait to put him in there!!!
I'm (Nicole) still working. People think that I'm crazy. I figure that sleep and rest are overrated at the point. I might as well go to work and not dwell on the fact that in a matter of 48 hours I will be in active labor. We are going to be induced on Saturday at 6pm if Elijah decides that he is not ready to come out on his own. The way it's looking, he's in there for as long as he can. I keep trying to let him know that he would have so much more room to wiggle if he would just come out. However, apparently he takes after his father's side of the family and is a little stubborn. Everyone knows that it is definitely not from my side. :-)
We went tonight to have our pictures taken by a friend. She is trying to build her portfolio and did not have any pregnant women pictures. So we gladly obliged and took her up on the free picture offer. However, I did learn that when you are 39 1/2 weeks pregnant, there are some poses that you cannot do. For instance, probably not good to try to get a prenant woman to take pictures on the ground. It was super hard to get back up. Oh, and I had to pose for a picture where I sat on my legs. That one didn't work out so well. I'm super swollen and it just hurt. I can't wait to see the pictures though. They should be good and it will be good to remember two days before L-day.
Definitely looking forward to Elijah being here. His room is done and actually cleaner than the rest of our house. I can't wait to put him in there!!!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Big Belly Lists
I figure my time is coming to a close with having a belly that makes me out of balance and run into things. So I thought that I would make two lists of things that I will not necessarily miss about a huge belly and things that I might miss a little.
Things that have hit my belly:
Door knobs
Door Jams
Door Frames (are we seeing a trend)
Towel Racks
Counter tops
Strike Plates on Door Jams
The door stoppers on public restrooms
Cardboard boxes
My desk
My desk chair
My car door
The small refrigerator at work
Spit, while I’m brushing my teeth
Toothpaste
All beverages that have come close to my mouth
Most food that I have eaten
The seatbelt buckle
The mop every time I open the pantry door
Thadd's belly- we do a belly bump when we pass each other
Things that are fun to put on my belly:
Any beverage with a straw. It takes no effort to drink it. Thadd thinks it’s hysterical.
Food
The remote control
My cell phone (that way it’s closer when someone calls or texts)
I keep trying to get Francis to lay close so Elijah will kick him, so far, no luck.
Papers, boxes- Easier to balance when you have your hands full and you are trying to get into the door.
Things that have hit my belly:
Door knobs
Door Jams
Door Frames (are we seeing a trend)
Towel Racks
Counter tops
Strike Plates on Door Jams
The door stoppers on public restrooms
Cardboard boxes
My desk
My desk chair
My car door
The small refrigerator at work
Spit, while I’m brushing my teeth
Toothpaste
All beverages that have come close to my mouth
Most food that I have eaten
The seatbelt buckle
The mop every time I open the pantry door
Thadd's belly- we do a belly bump when we pass each other
Things that are fun to put on my belly:
Any beverage with a straw. It takes no effort to drink it. Thadd thinks it’s hysterical.
Food
The remote control
My cell phone (that way it’s closer when someone calls or texts)
I keep trying to get Francis to lay close so Elijah will kick him, so far, no luck.
Papers, boxes- Easier to balance when you have your hands full and you are trying to get into the door.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The Ol' Turn Around
So I realized this week that I have 5 weeks (less now) left with this pregnancy. What's so crazy to me is that is was around 5 weeks that I found out that I was pregnant. It almost seems like yesterday. These past 8 months have definitely flown by. My concept of time has changed in all aspects of my life. Now I equate the first half of 2008 with pregnancy weeks and what I looked like then.
I guess I should put in a disclaimer. I have just a smidge less than 5 weeks left (exactly one month tomorrow) until the doctors say I'm due. I think that they are off a week and a half. However, Elijah is the only one who really has the final say in the whole thing anyway.
It has definitely been a whirlwind year. A lot of things have happened and changed not only in our personal lives but in our family's lives as well. We went through all the milestones with Elijah growing inside of me but at the same time a small piece of our hearts was in Illinois with family. It's hard being pregnant and e-mailing you mom with the progress. It's even harder when your dad is "too old" to get internet so you can e-mail him the progress and pictures.
We have been through the passing of family and friends and also the birth of babies. We have been through a terrible Michigan economy and job loss. We have had triumphs and let downs. We have seen and heard of our grandparents failing health and listened to our parents when they are worn out from hospital visits and taking care of their parents. We have also moved and started new jobs. It's pretty amazing how much can happen in just 7 1/2 months. And just think, all this time, Elijah is none the wiser to what is going on in the outside world. He has just continued to grow, kick, practice gymnastics and hiccupped. He gets to experience the outside world soon with all of it's problems and successes.
I just can't wait to meet him...
I guess I should put in a disclaimer. I have just a smidge less than 5 weeks left (exactly one month tomorrow) until the doctors say I'm due. I think that they are off a week and a half. However, Elijah is the only one who really has the final say in the whole thing anyway.
It has definitely been a whirlwind year. A lot of things have happened and changed not only in our personal lives but in our family's lives as well. We went through all the milestones with Elijah growing inside of me but at the same time a small piece of our hearts was in Illinois with family. It's hard being pregnant and e-mailing you mom with the progress. It's even harder when your dad is "too old" to get internet so you can e-mail him the progress and pictures.
We have been through the passing of family and friends and also the birth of babies. We have been through a terrible Michigan economy and job loss. We have had triumphs and let downs. We have seen and heard of our grandparents failing health and listened to our parents when they are worn out from hospital visits and taking care of their parents. We have also moved and started new jobs. It's pretty amazing how much can happen in just 7 1/2 months. And just think, all this time, Elijah is none the wiser to what is going on in the outside world. He has just continued to grow, kick, practice gymnastics and hiccupped. He gets to experience the outside world soon with all of it's problems and successes.
I just can't wait to meet him...
Monday, June 23, 2008
Mr. Blog, I have neglected you
I have decided that I need to do much better about sharing things on this. Especially lately.
I'm amazed by our church body. We went to them with the problem the doctor saw with Elijah. We asked for prayers for our appointment on Wednesday the 18. More people came up to me this week and hugged me then ever before in our time here. They shared how much they had been praying for us and Eli and the relief that they felt after the test results showed nothing. I was amazed of the emotion that people felt toward our unborn child without ever meeting them. Some of which really don't know us terribly well.
I was also amazed at how many people dismissed the miracle factor of this whole thing. They were quick to blame the first ultrasound tech and complain of unprofessionalism. Honestly, we don't know what the first test results were numbers wise. When we went to the specialist, they were much more forthcoming with information and we know the specs of everything. So we really have nothing to compare to. Therefore, I feel that this is a miracle from God and that he did answer our prayers (and those of people around the country). There was a part of me who wanted to blame our doctors office and hold on to bitternesss towards them. But we don't know how much fluid was on Eli's brain and how large his ventricles were, therefore, I feel it is unjustified.
I have come to a reality that God wanted us to go through this. Although we pray for our unborn child's health every day, we still needed to trust that God was going to provide it. I'm still trying to figure out all of the lessons that we learned from this. I guess that in nearly a week I'm still processing it all and trying to understand why my faith was so weak when we found out that Eli was sick. It definitely made other things that I thought were important fade away and helped me to not take for granted this pregnancy. I try everyday to find joy in the kicks to the ribs and the pain and swelling that I am experiencing. I love feeling him move inside of me, it reminds me of how God created us.
After we found out that we were having a boy (for sure) I pondered Mary's (the mother) roll in the crucifixion. Not that she was the one who physically put Jesus on the cross, but how hard it would have been to watch her first son suffer and die for all the world so they could be saved. I'm sure that it was hard for her to not be bitter and angry at the sin of others for putting him there. Honestly, I've never thought of this aspect before. Maybe it's because the bible really doesn't put a lot of emphasis on Mary's life after Jesus' death. However, I do feel that Elijah is going to do great things for the Lord. And as hard as it is to say, that could mean sacrificing his life for others to learn more about Jesus.
I will try to be better at writing. I guess this is a start.
I'm amazed by our church body. We went to them with the problem the doctor saw with Elijah. We asked for prayers for our appointment on Wednesday the 18. More people came up to me this week and hugged me then ever before in our time here. They shared how much they had been praying for us and Eli and the relief that they felt after the test results showed nothing. I was amazed of the emotion that people felt toward our unborn child without ever meeting them. Some of which really don't know us terribly well.
I was also amazed at how many people dismissed the miracle factor of this whole thing. They were quick to blame the first ultrasound tech and complain of unprofessionalism. Honestly, we don't know what the first test results were numbers wise. When we went to the specialist, they were much more forthcoming with information and we know the specs of everything. So we really have nothing to compare to. Therefore, I feel that this is a miracle from God and that he did answer our prayers (and those of people around the country). There was a part of me who wanted to blame our doctors office and hold on to bitternesss towards them. But we don't know how much fluid was on Eli's brain and how large his ventricles were, therefore, I feel it is unjustified.
I have come to a reality that God wanted us to go through this. Although we pray for our unborn child's health every day, we still needed to trust that God was going to provide it. I'm still trying to figure out all of the lessons that we learned from this. I guess that in nearly a week I'm still processing it all and trying to understand why my faith was so weak when we found out that Eli was sick. It definitely made other things that I thought were important fade away and helped me to not take for granted this pregnancy. I try everyday to find joy in the kicks to the ribs and the pain and swelling that I am experiencing. I love feeling him move inside of me, it reminds me of how God created us.
After we found out that we were having a boy (for sure) I pondered Mary's (the mother) roll in the crucifixion. Not that she was the one who physically put Jesus on the cross, but how hard it would have been to watch her first son suffer and die for all the world so they could be saved. I'm sure that it was hard for her to not be bitter and angry at the sin of others for putting him there. Honestly, I've never thought of this aspect before. Maybe it's because the bible really doesn't put a lot of emphasis on Mary's life after Jesus' death. However, I do feel that Elijah is going to do great things for the Lord. And as hard as it is to say, that could mean sacrificing his life for others to learn more about Jesus.
I will try to be better at writing. I guess this is a start.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
lunch
Today I ate lunch in one of the most unique arenas. It is one of those places many of us travel through but we seldom ever return to visit again. A place where not only are the pangs of hunger set at bay, but the hierarchal order of society is continued to be shaped and molded in our minds. The place I’m talking about is the Middle School cafeteria. Today in this place I was able to feast on much more than a simple chicken cordon bleu sandwich with sides of government issued cottage cheese with flecks of pepper, a helping of sliced cubed peaches in heavy sauce, and stale “tater tots” that could not be redeemed by any amount of ketchup or mustard.
I drank in what it was like to be back in those days that long passed me by when I daily tried to navigate the seas of junior high. Where at one moment the waters were cool and calm as you find you’ve aced your math test but only a little while later to have the waves crash over the bow as your shirt was stained from peaches and cottage cheese “accidentally” spilled down the front of you by your worst enemy. Now faced with this tragedy you must sail through the rest of the day trying to hide your stain marked shirt from the stares of other students who either understood what you were feeling or from those who simply looked on in disgust and passed you by like a power boat jetting by your simple little dinghy.
I watched students enter the lunch room running with reckless abandon. Some eager to meet with their friends and share the latest news of who is dating who and what teacher now holds the record for detentions awarded. I also saw students who tried to go unnoticed, those students who were just trying to get through the day without being in the middle of any major incident.
Personally, I received a fairly warm welcome. Due to past events with junior highers, I have made connections with many of them. However, for those who didn’t know me I received an interesting reception. The looks from the students who did not have any clue as to who I was were very comical. Some in the 7th grade whispered to themselves that they thought I was a new 8th grade student who just moved from out of town and did not know that he was out of place. Others simply stared and the funny looking, slowly balding beardo. I was finally asked what I was doing there why I would want to go and eat lunch with a bunch of 7th and 8th graders. At first I joked that it was because I had read the latest Zagat Survey which ranked the Middle School Cafeteria as the up and coming place for culinary delights. While the students did not believe this first response, they also did not believe my second and truthful reason. I was there to hang out with students on their time and on their turf; to meet with them and get to know them in their own environments.
In my short time in the cafeteria here is what I learned in no particular order:
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1. <!--[endif]-->School can be a source of joy for some students as they connect and interact with their friends and a source of pain for others as they try to simply get through their day without being picked on or made fun of. This often times requires the students to keep a low profile as they try to go unnoticed.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2. <!--[endif]-->Seventh and eighth grade students do not know what a Zagat Survey is. Pokemon character? Um, no.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3. <!--[endif]-->I missed the equality of humanity we try and instill into the generations that come after us. I watched as students jockeyed for position in the food lines and at their tables. I listened as students talked about each other in both positive and negative ways. And I spoke with students who it was clear they hadn’t had a kind word uttered to them all day.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4. <!--[endif]-->The person who invented the chicken cordon bleu sandwich using the lowest grades of chicken, cheese, ham product, and buns need a stern talking to. For this is certainly not a culinary delight!
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5. <!--[endif]-->I am still struggling for position in line and a place at the table.
Awaiting the Savior,
Thadd
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
From Dad
Baby, I love you and I hope in time you will come to understand how much God has changed my life by using you. (And at this point, you are still in the womb!) I am still grappling with the thought of being your earthly father. My understanding of a father is drastically changing. No longer am I allowed to look at someone else and critique them from an outsiders perspective on who and what a father is supposed to be. I now have to examine my own understanding of fatherhood and basically "walk the talk". I would like to think that I've had a good example of being a dad by looking to my own father. Yeah, I do understand his short comings, but I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that he loved my mom and he loved his children. I hope to be follow his successes and avoid his mistakes. But I think any child would say the same. But I also know that is easier said than done.
Baby, I haven't even met you yet, but I do love you. I am continually amazed at how our God is knitting you together in your mother's womb. There is no day that I am looking more forward to than the day of your birth. When I will finally get to hold you in my arms and look into your innocent eyes.
It is my continual hope and prayer that I will be a man you will be able to look up to and respect. That I will be father who loves your mother more than my own life and that our love will flow over unto you and any sisters or brothers you may have. I cannot believe how much I love you and I haven't even met you yet. May God bless you, keep you, and let his face shine upon you as you grow strong in Him.
Love,
Dad
Baby, I haven't even met you yet, but I do love you. I am continually amazed at how our God is knitting you together in your mother's womb. There is no day that I am looking more forward to than the day of your birth. When I will finally get to hold you in my arms and look into your innocent eyes.
It is my continual hope and prayer that I will be a man you will be able to look up to and respect. That I will be father who loves your mother more than my own life and that our love will flow over unto you and any sisters or brothers you may have. I cannot believe how much I love you and I haven't even met you yet. May God bless you, keep you, and let his face shine upon you as you grow strong in Him.
Love,
Dad
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)