I wanted to share something I read today. A lot of wisdom and a lot to think on...hopefully it encourages and challenges you like it has me today...
by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, to his young niece
Patient Trust
Above all, trust in the slow work of God.
We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay.
We should like to skip the intermediate stages.
We are impatient of being on the way to something unknown, something new.
And yet it is the law of all progress that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—and that it may take a very long time.
And so I think it is with you.
Your ideas mature gradually–let them grow,
Let them shape themselves, without undue haste.
Don’t try to force them on,
as though you could be today what time
(that is to say, grace and circumstances acting on your own good will)
will make of you tomorrow.
Only God could say what this new spirit gradually forming within you will be.
Give our Lord the benefit of believing that his hand is leading you,
and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself in suspense and incomplete.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Words Worth Remembering...
We have had some funny and or special moments as of late...ones worth recording :)
I Have Someone Fooled....
A few days ago Benjy took the older boys along with him to help paint the house of some of our friends. While they were working, Reece noticed that Lauren was resting instead of painting. She is in her first trimester of pregnancy, and naturally...tired. When she came into the room, Reece did not hesitate to ask her why she was tired. She explained to him that she had a tiny baby in her tummy and that him/her growing and changing makes her tired. Apparently, Reece looked at her and plainly stated, "hmmm - my Mom has a baby in her tummy too and she is never tired" (yes, I got a good laugh out of that one when it was shared with me - if he only knew!)
A Little Out of Context....
We have been working on learning a few memory verses around here. The boys love it and it serves as a good way to gently remind them what God wants in certain circumstances. A few days ago Reece was sent to his room as a punishment. In fine "sibling rivalry fashion" Chase wanted to know what he did. My response was to protect Reece because really it had nothing to do with Chase and he didn't need to know what had transpired between me and him. Chase asked several times and when I told him that was enough - we weren't talking about it anymore - he looked up at me and said, "well, don't you remember what the verse says....you should do to me what you want me to do to you....so tell me what Reece did cuz I wanna know" :)
When I Am the Playmate of Choice...
Pierce LOVES to play with his big brothers. He gets right in there and plays whatever they are playing and he has a good time. What makes me feel super special is when Piersen come to me (especially when the boys are available and home from school) and he says - "play trains. Me and you. You and me. Come on Mom" He is the sweetest!
Does He Still Believe?....
Mimi (my mother-in-law) commented the other day that she is thankful to be able to spend Christmas with us this year because she fears that this just may be Reece's last year to believe in Santa Clause. Here is some confirmation that she can be sure he still believes.... We were making a "wish list" to honor the requests of Grandparents who are wanting to prepare well for the holiday season. Reece was having a hard time really knowing what he was interested in in asking for. As he thought, it suddenly dawned on him (it really did seem like the light bulb came on in his head) - "I am just going to ask Santa to give me one of those little helper guys...what are they called? " I told him, "elves". He continued, "ya, I am going to ask Santa to give ME one of his elves so he could just build me whatever toy I want whenever I want it!" Not long after that thought came out of his mouth and I tried to hide my smile he had already realized in such a sweet and innocent way, "but I already know he probably won't do that" I reminded him that he probably was right because Santa needs his helpers to make toys for everyone.
Fast like when I was born...
Obviously with the new arrival expected into our family very soon, we have been talking about babies and my boys' when they were babies and where they were born and what they were like and on and on. Chase seemed especially interested about his birth so I told him the story of how quickly he arrived (us making it to the hospital at 3:00am and holding him in our arms at 3:30am). As I have said before, Chase tends to do things in his own time. For whatever reason - he has grabbed a hold of his "birth story" and it has been highly motivational for him. A few days after hearing about his birth story, he told Benjy that he was going to get something (whatever Benjy had asked him to do) fast - fast like he was born - because he was born fast...and Reece wasn't!
Out of context...again...
Reece, being the oldest, has nearly perfected the technique of manipulating certain situations to get things from his little brothers. He isn't always successful but has learned quite skillfully how to make the toy he doesn't want to seem super cool so he can get the toy he really wants. I walked in on him the other day with the toy that Pierce had just been enjoying in his own hand. Reece flashed me a bright smile and said, "Mom, Pierce really understands our memory verse - he is being a peacemaker and just gave me this toy!"
Telling It Like It Is...I Guess...
My boys, like all boys, enjoy being swung with their arms when walking down the street or in a shopping center, etc.. I am not particularly fond of it since it tends to happen suddenly and in unexpected moments. My balance is a little off these days too so although Pierce was happily being swung between Benjy and Reece - I had Chase's hand and he wanted to do likewise. I told him he couldn't and his response: "oh ya, you can't because you are fat." Sure....thanks?!?
Well, that wraps up a few "fun" conversations as of late. Hope you got some smiles from these kiddos of mine. As we say around here, "never a dull moment"!
I Have Someone Fooled....
A few days ago Benjy took the older boys along with him to help paint the house of some of our friends. While they were working, Reece noticed that Lauren was resting instead of painting. She is in her first trimester of pregnancy, and naturally...tired. When she came into the room, Reece did not hesitate to ask her why she was tired. She explained to him that she had a tiny baby in her tummy and that him/her growing and changing makes her tired. Apparently, Reece looked at her and plainly stated, "hmmm - my Mom has a baby in her tummy too and she is never tired" (yes, I got a good laugh out of that one when it was shared with me - if he only knew!)
A Little Out of Context....
We have been working on learning a few memory verses around here. The boys love it and it serves as a good way to gently remind them what God wants in certain circumstances. A few days ago Reece was sent to his room as a punishment. In fine "sibling rivalry fashion" Chase wanted to know what he did. My response was to protect Reece because really it had nothing to do with Chase and he didn't need to know what had transpired between me and him. Chase asked several times and when I told him that was enough - we weren't talking about it anymore - he looked up at me and said, "well, don't you remember what the verse says....you should do to me what you want me to do to you....so tell me what Reece did cuz I wanna know" :)
When I Am the Playmate of Choice...
Pierce LOVES to play with his big brothers. He gets right in there and plays whatever they are playing and he has a good time. What makes me feel super special is when Piersen come to me (especially when the boys are available and home from school) and he says - "play trains. Me and you. You and me. Come on Mom" He is the sweetest!
Does He Still Believe?....
Mimi (my mother-in-law) commented the other day that she is thankful to be able to spend Christmas with us this year because she fears that this just may be Reece's last year to believe in Santa Clause. Here is some confirmation that she can be sure he still believes.... We were making a "wish list" to honor the requests of Grandparents who are wanting to prepare well for the holiday season. Reece was having a hard time really knowing what he was interested in in asking for. As he thought, it suddenly dawned on him (it really did seem like the light bulb came on in his head) - "I am just going to ask Santa to give me one of those little helper guys...what are they called? " I told him, "elves". He continued, "ya, I am going to ask Santa to give ME one of his elves so he could just build me whatever toy I want whenever I want it!" Not long after that thought came out of his mouth and I tried to hide my smile he had already realized in such a sweet and innocent way, "but I already know he probably won't do that" I reminded him that he probably was right because Santa needs his helpers to make toys for everyone.
Fast like when I was born...
Obviously with the new arrival expected into our family very soon, we have been talking about babies and my boys' when they were babies and where they were born and what they were like and on and on. Chase seemed especially interested about his birth so I told him the story of how quickly he arrived (us making it to the hospital at 3:00am and holding him in our arms at 3:30am). As I have said before, Chase tends to do things in his own time. For whatever reason - he has grabbed a hold of his "birth story" and it has been highly motivational for him. A few days after hearing about his birth story, he told Benjy that he was going to get something (whatever Benjy had asked him to do) fast - fast like he was born - because he was born fast...and Reece wasn't!
Out of context...again...
Reece, being the oldest, has nearly perfected the technique of manipulating certain situations to get things from his little brothers. He isn't always successful but has learned quite skillfully how to make the toy he doesn't want to seem super cool so he can get the toy he really wants. I walked in on him the other day with the toy that Pierce had just been enjoying in his own hand. Reece flashed me a bright smile and said, "Mom, Pierce really understands our memory verse - he is being a peacemaker and just gave me this toy!"
Telling It Like It Is...I Guess...
My boys, like all boys, enjoy being swung with their arms when walking down the street or in a shopping center, etc.. I am not particularly fond of it since it tends to happen suddenly and in unexpected moments. My balance is a little off these days too so although Pierce was happily being swung between Benjy and Reece - I had Chase's hand and he wanted to do likewise. I told him he couldn't and his response: "oh ya, you can't because you are fat." Sure....thanks?!?
Well, that wraps up a few "fun" conversations as of late. Hope you got some smiles from these kiddos of mine. As we say around here, "never a dull moment"!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Pierce & His Potty
Potty training? Yes...maybe a crazy time to tackle this with just a few weeks until baby Hudson's arrival, but Pierce seems interested and I don't wanna miss the "window of opportunity". I decided to take the "work in progress" approach rather than "we are going to have quick success". Thankfully, Pierce is co-operating quite well, is overjoyed by receiving a sticker and overall is just doing pretty well. He has several fun pair of underwear that makes it more exciting too. Whether it is Elmo, Diego, Cookie Monster or Thomas - he is the cutest when you frequently remind him "now don't pee on Diego" and he says emphatically "IIII nooottttt" (if he knew to roll his eyes I bet he would).
We started out needing a few books to get the timing down right. A lot of hittin' and missin' - literally - those first few attempts.
But by now, as you can see - we are cruising along....with numerous successes of both job #'s under his belt :) He is quite pleased to wear underwear and is indicating when he has to go. He has already learned that it is an effective bedtime stalling technique, because surely any parent trying to get their kid potty trained is not going to deny their countless "crying wolf"s would they? (ha, Pierce - I am onto you!) We are far from perfecting this - especially because it seems to be largely dependent on what our day looks like for being in or out of the house...and my energy level to be on top of it. However, I am quickly learning that he is getting the hang of it and I am going to work hard on consistency on my part. Go Pierce go!
We started out needing a few books to get the timing down right. A lot of hittin' and missin' - literally - those first few attempts.
But by now, as you can see - we are cruising along....with numerous successes of both job #'s under his belt :) He is quite pleased to wear underwear and is indicating when he has to go. He has already learned that it is an effective bedtime stalling technique, because surely any parent trying to get their kid potty trained is not going to deny their countless "crying wolf"s would they? (ha, Pierce - I am onto you!) We are far from perfecting this - especially because it seems to be largely dependent on what our day looks like for being in or out of the house...and my energy level to be on top of it. However, I am quickly learning that he is getting the hang of it and I am going to work hard on consistency on my part. Go Pierce go!
A Hockey Mom AND A Soccer Mom!
Life is good around here. Our boys are without question....boys. They are active and full of energy and thankfully, at this point in life anyway, interested in sports! We have been spending time outside playing baseball, soccer, football.... and they have also begun this year, to be involved in extracurricular activities!
Reece has made me a hockey Mom and I am pretty excited about that. He is doing so well and the best part about it is that he really has fun. He is by far the youngest on his "team" and I guess the truth be told they aren't really "playing". Sure, they will scrimmage every now and them but really he is just learning basic skills like skating, shooting and puck handling. Reece is one of these kids who loves to learn and we smile as we watch him listen very very attentively to his coach. They just hired a new coach - and the old saying "its a small world" comes to surface again...Francis is a Canadian who went to school in Saskatchewan, close to where I grew up. So we are happy that he is being taught the Canadian game by a Canadian...even though we are in Mexico City! Check out our boy in all his gear - he looks huge out there on the ice - and is gaining skill and confidence every day. Look out NHL (ha,ha).
And Reece and Chase together have made me also a Soccer Mom. We were really thankful for this because the team formed through the boys' school - they get to play on a team with all of their friends. We are especially happy that Chase is old enough to be a part of all of this. He loves it and counts down the days waiting for Tuesdays and Thursdays (I think they may even have now surpassed "Friday" as his favorite day of the week since Fridays he is allowed to bring his favorite toy to school!). The boys run off a lot of energy and are learning important life skills too about working on a team and commitment and hard work. It is nice for our schedule that they are together. Here are some pics of Reecer and Chaser out on the field. Oh, and how could I forget. Pierce doesn't know it, but he thinks he is a part of it all too. We are getting a deal because he runs along the side lines, and occasionally out on the field if he can sneak past us, and kicks the ball like he is on the team.
I realize that these are the first formal sports experiences these boys are having, but I am amazed at how proud it makes you feel to watch your kid simply do his best and have fun.
Reece has made me a hockey Mom and I am pretty excited about that. He is doing so well and the best part about it is that he really has fun. He is by far the youngest on his "team" and I guess the truth be told they aren't really "playing". Sure, they will scrimmage every now and them but really he is just learning basic skills like skating, shooting and puck handling. Reece is one of these kids who loves to learn and we smile as we watch him listen very very attentively to his coach. They just hired a new coach - and the old saying "its a small world" comes to surface again...Francis is a Canadian who went to school in Saskatchewan, close to where I grew up. So we are happy that he is being taught the Canadian game by a Canadian...even though we are in Mexico City! Check out our boy in all his gear - he looks huge out there on the ice - and is gaining skill and confidence every day. Look out NHL (ha,ha).
And Reece and Chase together have made me also a Soccer Mom. We were really thankful for this because the team formed through the boys' school - they get to play on a team with all of their friends. We are especially happy that Chase is old enough to be a part of all of this. He loves it and counts down the days waiting for Tuesdays and Thursdays (I think they may even have now surpassed "Friday" as his favorite day of the week since Fridays he is allowed to bring his favorite toy to school!). The boys run off a lot of energy and are learning important life skills too about working on a team and commitment and hard work. It is nice for our schedule that they are together. Here are some pics of Reecer and Chaser out on the field. Oh, and how could I forget. Pierce doesn't know it, but he thinks he is a part of it all too. We are getting a deal because he runs along the side lines, and occasionally out on the field if he can sneak past us, and kicks the ball like he is on the team.
I realize that these are the first formal sports experiences these boys are having, but I am amazed at how proud it makes you feel to watch your kid simply do his best and have fun.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Something I Have Learned...
The other day I received a question from a young, single girl that before my journey as a Mom I would have totally related to. She asked me if I was "against" letting my boys play with toy guns. I simply smiled at first....remembering my personal ideas that "guns" just aren't something that I like, or feel send any kind of positive message for play. And then...I birthed boys.
So my answer to her was not what I would have said in my pre "boy" years. Rather I stated that I understood her point but that when you see your "never exposed to guns before" boys making guns out of sticks, books, or even biting their toast or apple slices into gun-like shapes and shooting each other across the breakfast table...you tend to lighten up a little and realize that it really is in their blood.
Don't worry people, my kids aren't violent and other than little water or nerf ball guns they don't have anything that resembles "real" guns...they don't need 'em - they have imaginations!
So my answer to her was not what I would have said in my pre "boy" years. Rather I stated that I understood her point but that when you see your "never exposed to guns before" boys making guns out of sticks, books, or even biting their toast or apple slices into gun-like shapes and shooting each other across the breakfast table...you tend to lighten up a little and realize that it really is in their blood.
Don't worry people, my kids aren't violent and other than little water or nerf ball guns they don't have anything that resembles "real" guns...they don't need 'em - they have imaginations!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Thankful
An international family like ours has more reasons to celebrate! Today is Canadian Thanksgiving and although I miss my Mom's fantastic cooking and wish I could be with all of my family today, I will reflect on the many, many things I have to be thankful for...
* my family - near and far - both immediate and distant - mine and Benjy's - thank you for being a part of my life!
* my good husband who shares the good, bad and the ugly alongside me - and is committed to our life together
* my boys - the very ones that make my life full and adventurous...I am especially thankful for their laughter and their personalities
* this pregnancy and the blessings I have to enjoy new life...that we will soon meet Hudson and be humbly amazed at the way he makes our family complete
* my friends - I have been blessed beyond measure with very good people in many places around the globe - I am grateful that in many ways the distance has not stolen friendship from us and I appreciate all of those who keep in touch
* for those around me in the same stage of life who just plain understand the joy and struggle of trying to raise good kids
* for my kids' school that has been such a good fit for our family
* for growth and trials that provide opportunity for growth
* our house church community - what a blessing to belong with so many good people who love Jesus
* our partnering congregation in Louisville, KY - we have been blessed by you for years now - thank you.
* the simple things that are too easy to take advantage of: a place to live, car to drive, food to eat, clothes to wear
* our health and safety
* for tears,emotions and reflection and how they keep us soft and open
* for memories and how they help form and shape us
* the ability to read, and write and study, and learn new things
* the opportunities to do fun things together as a family that create memories and bonding and deeper relationship
* for the past - that has lead us to today; the present - which I am working at trying to fully live in and enjoy; the future - that is so full of unknown and opportunity
* mostly for a God who gives graciously and who loves unconditionally and who has patience and understanding - that He is the giver of all the good gifts in my life...and there are many!
The list could go on and on - but I realize again today how blessed I am in so many ways. Thankfulness is a major ingredient to a peace-filled life and it NEVER hurts to reflect on all that I have to be thankful for.
* my family - near and far - both immediate and distant - mine and Benjy's - thank you for being a part of my life!
* my good husband who shares the good, bad and the ugly alongside me - and is committed to our life together
* my boys - the very ones that make my life full and adventurous...I am especially thankful for their laughter and their personalities
* this pregnancy and the blessings I have to enjoy new life...that we will soon meet Hudson and be humbly amazed at the way he makes our family complete
* my friends - I have been blessed beyond measure with very good people in many places around the globe - I am grateful that in many ways the distance has not stolen friendship from us and I appreciate all of those who keep in touch
* for those around me in the same stage of life who just plain understand the joy and struggle of trying to raise good kids
* for my kids' school that has been such a good fit for our family
* for growth and trials that provide opportunity for growth
* our house church community - what a blessing to belong with so many good people who love Jesus
* our partnering congregation in Louisville, KY - we have been blessed by you for years now - thank you.
* the simple things that are too easy to take advantage of: a place to live, car to drive, food to eat, clothes to wear
* our health and safety
* for tears,emotions and reflection and how they keep us soft and open
* for memories and how they help form and shape us
* the ability to read, and write and study, and learn new things
* the opportunities to do fun things together as a family that create memories and bonding and deeper relationship
* for the past - that has lead us to today; the present - which I am working at trying to fully live in and enjoy; the future - that is so full of unknown and opportunity
* mostly for a God who gives graciously and who loves unconditionally and who has patience and understanding - that He is the giver of all the good gifts in my life...and there are many!
The list could go on and on - but I realize again today how blessed I am in so many ways. Thankfulness is a major ingredient to a peace-filled life and it NEVER hurts to reflect on all that I have to be thankful for.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Putting A Face With A Name...
The excitement for our new baby is growing around here. Last week we took the boys along with us to see their baby bro (yes, he most definitely is still a boy!) I think I said this in an earlier post but the little guy is in breech position right now but we are praying and urging him to flip around soon! We got a pretty clear sneak peak at his little profile - looks like he belongs to us as he looks just like my boys! I shortened up the video some so that you could see his face but spare him the embarasment of having his privates shared with the blogging world. This is after all, his first public appearance. The sound is not the best but if you listen carefully you can hear the kids' excitement when they make out what they are seeing on the screen. Check him out, he is absolutely precious!
And since we, and especially the boys, have been openly sharing our name choice with people, I thought it would be cute for the big brothers to announce to you the name and the meanings of the newest of our Brednich clan (as you are about to see, there has been no rehearsal - ha,ha) The way Pierce says his name is way adorable and I just couldn't resist sharing it with you.
So Hudson John Brednich it is. What do you think?! We will likely sometimes call him Huds for short to flow with the name endings of our others boys. As the boys said in the video, "the son of a brave leader" just seems to fit appropriately as Benjy and I face the joys and challenges of leading and raising FOUR BOYS! And I strongly believe that my husband is a good, strong and brave leader of our family and I believe the name honors him. We have had the name "Grace" on our girl name list for a long time - in honor of what grace really means and also to honor my Mom (Grace is her middle name). After the loss of our two little babies to early miscarriage, we feel more than blessed with the gift of this child and choose to praise the truth that "God is gracious" and so John was selected for the significance of its meaning. John is also a family name on Benjy's side of the family....so it all just works so very nicely.
I wonder if anyone thinks as much about baby names as a Mom does when she is pregnant. It is a big job - a lot to consider and include. But I feel so happy with the names of my boys: Reece Samuel, Chase Lambert, Piersen Benjamin, and Hudson John. It has definitely been team effort between Benjy and I - and so I am just going to go ahead and give both of us a pat on our backs and say: job well done - their names are perfect!!
And since we, and especially the boys, have been openly sharing our name choice with people, I thought it would be cute for the big brothers to announce to you the name and the meanings of the newest of our Brednich clan (as you are about to see, there has been no rehearsal - ha,ha) The way Pierce says his name is way adorable and I just couldn't resist sharing it with you.
So Hudson John Brednich it is. What do you think?! We will likely sometimes call him Huds for short to flow with the name endings of our others boys. As the boys said in the video, "the son of a brave leader" just seems to fit appropriately as Benjy and I face the joys and challenges of leading and raising FOUR BOYS! And I strongly believe that my husband is a good, strong and brave leader of our family and I believe the name honors him. We have had the name "Grace" on our girl name list for a long time - in honor of what grace really means and also to honor my Mom (Grace is her middle name). After the loss of our two little babies to early miscarriage, we feel more than blessed with the gift of this child and choose to praise the truth that "God is gracious" and so John was selected for the significance of its meaning. John is also a family name on Benjy's side of the family....so it all just works so very nicely.
I wonder if anyone thinks as much about baby names as a Mom does when she is pregnant. It is a big job - a lot to consider and include. But I feel so happy with the names of my boys: Reece Samuel, Chase Lambert, Piersen Benjamin, and Hudson John. It has definitely been team effort between Benjy and I - and so I am just going to go ahead and give both of us a pat on our backs and say: job well done - their names are perfect!!
Monday, October 05, 2009
Top Ten Reasons Why Downsizing Has Been Great For Us!
When we moved at the end of August into this apartment, which happens to be about half the size of our previous house, many thought we were crazy. I am sure that choosing to have a positive attitude about it has made a difference but I feel really really happy here. We are very blessed and have much to be thankful for. Here are some reasons I am thankful for our new spot to call "home": (in no particular order)
1) we have peaceful mornings.
This is the first year we have dealt with 2 different school starting times for the boys - Reece enters at 8, Chase at 9. I can see the entrance to the school out of our living room window...which means that I take a lazy stroll to drop Reece off, come back home and have some time with Chase before we walk across the street and drop him off. I have LOVED not dealing with loading up in the car, seat belts, traffic, etc.. Thinking ahead to a new baby at home makes this option even more wonderful. And can't we all use a little more peace in our mornings?!?!
2) less storage space means more organization required.
I have strangely enjoyed having to be more creative with where to place things, what to keep (and not to keep) and to try and live with a little more organization and a little less clutter.
3) no stairs.
Since I am...ummmm....rather pregnant....I can't tell you how nice it has been to have everything all on one floor. No stairs to climb - especially at the end of a long day when my little boys need a story, or a drink of water, or another tuck in - and during laundry time when all is within easy access for sorting, folding and the dreaded putting away.
4) we are spending more time together.
This is an important one. I just feel like we have spent more time together - especially reading and playing board games - because everything is stored close to where we are hanging out. In our other house we had a "play room" but it was on the top, 3rd floor and its where all of our books and games were - they weren't utilized nearly as much. I have had so much fun in this apartment playing, making puzzles, reading books. It has been a great thing for our relationships with the kids.
5) we have a nice front yard.
Mind you it is not a private yard - it is a common area for all - but it is pretty and has nice lawn and a good spot for the kids to play. There is even a nice little white bench that I can sit on as the boys play, go down their little slide, kick a ball, or....climb trees :)
6) the windows have screens on them.
This is a nice added bonus in any house but especially when you have a husband who is quite freakish about mosquitos. We have been sleeping with the cool breeze flowing through our room.
7) the boys already had friends who lived here.
Both Reece and Chase had classmates that lived in these apartments so it was a relatively easy transition as far as friends were concerned. They seem to have adjusted well.
8) I like my kitchen better.
I have better counter space and I'd have to say the oven is much better (although that didn't take much - ha!)
9) We are paying less money in rent so you just can't complain about that.
10) And last but not least....I am certain that it isn't the house that makes a home anyway!
So there ya have it. We feel more or less settled and I have liked learning that less - at first glance - is not always all that difficult.
1) we have peaceful mornings.
This is the first year we have dealt with 2 different school starting times for the boys - Reece enters at 8, Chase at 9. I can see the entrance to the school out of our living room window...which means that I take a lazy stroll to drop Reece off, come back home and have some time with Chase before we walk across the street and drop him off. I have LOVED not dealing with loading up in the car, seat belts, traffic, etc.. Thinking ahead to a new baby at home makes this option even more wonderful. And can't we all use a little more peace in our mornings?!?!
2) less storage space means more organization required.
I have strangely enjoyed having to be more creative with where to place things, what to keep (and not to keep) and to try and live with a little more organization and a little less clutter.
3) no stairs.
Since I am...ummmm....rather pregnant....I can't tell you how nice it has been to have everything all on one floor. No stairs to climb - especially at the end of a long day when my little boys need a story, or a drink of water, or another tuck in - and during laundry time when all is within easy access for sorting, folding and the dreaded putting away.
4) we are spending more time together.
This is an important one. I just feel like we have spent more time together - especially reading and playing board games - because everything is stored close to where we are hanging out. In our other house we had a "play room" but it was on the top, 3rd floor and its where all of our books and games were - they weren't utilized nearly as much. I have had so much fun in this apartment playing, making puzzles, reading books. It has been a great thing for our relationships with the kids.
5) we have a nice front yard.
Mind you it is not a private yard - it is a common area for all - but it is pretty and has nice lawn and a good spot for the kids to play. There is even a nice little white bench that I can sit on as the boys play, go down their little slide, kick a ball, or....climb trees :)
6) the windows have screens on them.
This is a nice added bonus in any house but especially when you have a husband who is quite freakish about mosquitos. We have been sleeping with the cool breeze flowing through our room.
7) the boys already had friends who lived here.
Both Reece and Chase had classmates that lived in these apartments so it was a relatively easy transition as far as friends were concerned. They seem to have adjusted well.
8) I like my kitchen better.
I have better counter space and I'd have to say the oven is much better (although that didn't take much - ha!)
9) We are paying less money in rent so you just can't complain about that.
10) And last but not least....I am certain that it isn't the house that makes a home anyway!
So there ya have it. We feel more or less settled and I have liked learning that less - at first glance - is not always all that difficult.
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Quick Update
I have been having internet connection issues and realized that several of the recent pictures I had posted were suddenly not showing up. I tried to fix the problem and re-posted them so let's see if they are showing up now. Thanks!
Grrrrrr....now they still aren't showing up. Sorry.
Grrrrrr....now they still aren't showing up. Sorry.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
A New Slant On Efficiency
Chase is 4. He likes to do things in his own sweet time. It tends to be a "button" of mine that I don't even think he pushes intentionally (well, sometimes he certainly does!) He just does things on his own time.
One of the "rules" when the boys get home from school is to change out of their school uniforms and into play clothes - as soon as they get home - before we eat lunch together. This is always frustrating to Chase.
But being the creative little boy he is, he thinks he may have solved the problem this morning. After breakfast, I sent him to the back to brush his teeth and change out of his pj's and into his school uniform. Oddly, he came out very quickly with a smile on his face. Check out the layering of his clothes - he already has his play clothes on underneath his school uniform. Should make for a quicker transition after school. What a boy! What could I say?!
One of the "rules" when the boys get home from school is to change out of their school uniforms and into play clothes - as soon as they get home - before we eat lunch together. This is always frustrating to Chase.
But being the creative little boy he is, he thinks he may have solved the problem this morning. After breakfast, I sent him to the back to brush his teeth and change out of his pj's and into his school uniform. Oddly, he came out very quickly with a smile on his face. Check out the layering of his clothes - he already has his play clothes on underneath his school uniform. Should make for a quicker transition after school. What a boy! What could I say?!
A Boy & A Tree
I am learning as a Mom that boys & trees make good friends. When we moved over here, the boys were thrilled to finally have a few climbing trees - even though they aren't that big or wonderful, to them it doesn't matter....
On Sunday afternoon as we were relaxing from the post-half marathon (okay, I didn't run it but willingly took advantage of some down time!), the boys were playing outside. We hear a cry - but one of those cries of your kids that you know means something more...it just sounds different. They had been climbing trees and swinging from branches. Reece dropped down and tried to brace his fall with his arms and before you knew it we were investigating the nearest ER to visit. As you can see below, the tree wasn't that big - and the fall not that far - but I guess, leave it to boys to find a way to make anything dangerous! Thankfully, his elbow is not broken, although the doctor was sure it was. The x-ray revealed that nothing was broken, just badly sprained, so Reecer is all wrapped up for a week or so. He was a brave kid and is already figuring out how to do lots of things with one hand...he even attempted to climb that same tree (apparently they are still friends) but I put a hold on that activity for a little longer :)
On Sunday afternoon as we were relaxing from the post-half marathon (okay, I didn't run it but willingly took advantage of some down time!), the boys were playing outside. We hear a cry - but one of those cries of your kids that you know means something more...it just sounds different. They had been climbing trees and swinging from branches. Reece dropped down and tried to brace his fall with his arms and before you knew it we were investigating the nearest ER to visit. As you can see below, the tree wasn't that big - and the fall not that far - but I guess, leave it to boys to find a way to make anything dangerous! Thankfully, his elbow is not broken, although the doctor was sure it was. The x-ray revealed that nothing was broken, just badly sprained, so Reecer is all wrapped up for a week or so. He was a brave kid and is already figuring out how to do lots of things with one hand...he even attempted to climb that same tree (apparently they are still friends) but I put a hold on that activity for a little longer :)
13.1 Miles
On Sunday, Benjy accomplished his goal of competing in a half-marathon. We are so proud of him because although he was injured and not feeling the best, he was determined and crossed the finish line! Benj has the worst luck and seems to have many a hurdle to cross when he sets a running goal for himself. About 2 weeks before the race he injured/bruised the bottom of his foot. Although I - thinking big picture - suggested he postpone his race and heal up a bit so he wouldn't further injure himself - he looked at me and said, "I am doing this. Even if I have to walk the whole thing. I am not backing out." And so he ran it and he did well!
The boys were so excited for him to come home and hear how it went. We were all disppointed that we didn't go watch him finish but it is just one of those realities of having 3 little ones, being pregnant and not trusting that scenario alone on public transportation in this big city. So instead, we cheered from a distance. Chaser came up with the clever idea of presenting him with medals...so we went to work cheering for him, praying for his foot, and making homemade medals to hang around his neck.
Unfortunatley, when he arrived home, he was a bit too sweaty and exhausted to pose for any pictures - he wanted a shower and food! But I just want to say how proud I am of Benjy's hard work, dedication and determination. Way to go Babe!
The boys were so excited for him to come home and hear how it went. We were all disppointed that we didn't go watch him finish but it is just one of those realities of having 3 little ones, being pregnant and not trusting that scenario alone on public transportation in this big city. So instead, we cheered from a distance. Chaser came up with the clever idea of presenting him with medals...so we went to work cheering for him, praying for his foot, and making homemade medals to hang around his neck.
Unfortunatley, when he arrived home, he was a bit too sweaty and exhausted to pose for any pictures - he wanted a shower and food! But I just want to say how proud I am of Benjy's hard work, dedication and determination. Way to go Babe!
Annual Mexico Missionary Retreat
We were so blessed to be able to attend the Mexico Missionary Retreat a few weeks ago. It is always such a great time to be renewed, rested and re-connected with great people who are working and sharing Christ in various cities throughout Mexico. This year we all met in Nuevo Vallarta and loved the beach, the pool and the place. Many thanks to Ryan and Amanda Gray for planning the retreat and to Cory and Toni Burns for connecting us with the great hotel.
Of course, the highlights were the great conversations shared between fellow missionaries (many who are old friends) but those don't make for very great pictures. Much more interesting are the kids having fun in the sun!
I was so proud of my older two boys - who, in the past, have been...let's just say, "afraid" of the big ocean. But this time the waves were gentle and shallow and they gave "boogie boarding" a whirl. They had so so much fun - check out their smiles.
While Reece and Chase explored the ocean, Pierce stuck to safer places, spalshed in the pool and napped!
My handsome beach bums!
One of my favorite evenings of the retreat was a family walk down the beach. Pierce was frozen with fear in the beginning but by the end was slowly gaining confidence. The boys collected sea shells and sand dollars...and sticks of course :)
Here is a group picture of most of the MK's (missionary kids). They are a great bunch and are very good friends to my boys. We are thankful for them and their parents who work alongside us in this beautiful country. Unfortunatley we didn't get a group picture of everyone but I believe there were over 60 in attendance.
Of course, the highlights were the great conversations shared between fellow missionaries (many who are old friends) but those don't make for very great pictures. Much more interesting are the kids having fun in the sun!
I was so proud of my older two boys - who, in the past, have been...let's just say, "afraid" of the big ocean. But this time the waves were gentle and shallow and they gave "boogie boarding" a whirl. They had so so much fun - check out their smiles.
While Reece and Chase explored the ocean, Pierce stuck to safer places, spalshed in the pool and napped!
My handsome beach bums!
One of my favorite evenings of the retreat was a family walk down the beach. Pierce was frozen with fear in the beginning but by the end was slowly gaining confidence. The boys collected sea shells and sand dollars...and sticks of course :)
Here is a group picture of most of the MK's (missionary kids). They are a great bunch and are very good friends to my boys. We are thankful for them and their parents who work alongside us in this beautiful country. Unfortunatley we didn't get a group picture of everyone but I believe there were over 60 in attendance.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
On The Home Stretch
So here I am today at 32.5 weeks of pregnancy...continuing to feel really good and enjoying this great time in life! The little guy is laying sideways across my tummy so we are hoping for him to move into position here soon while he still has the space. I am not concerned yet since Piersen was breech at my 34 week appointment and still moved the right way in time. However, why push the line right? Go ahead and pray for baby to cooperate with nature! Thanks a bunch!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Big Boy Bed
Since the move to the apartment we took the opportunity to transition Pierce out of his crib in preparation for our new baby's arrival. To give him a litle chance to adjust to the new surroundings, we let him sleep a few nights in the new place in his pac 'n play which had been his companion all summer long. When the time came to switch him to his bed, he didn't seem all that interested...that is until his two big brothers helped us cheer him on. The amazing power of sibling suggestion! Suddenly, you'da thought that this idea was ALL his and that he was the greatest thing since sliced bread. He was the proudest little boy, laying down in his new bed with the family gathered around him to tuck him in. It made me smile because it was like he knew how to act all calm and cool through the change because he was big stuff.
These first two pics are of him that first night. I could tell from snapping the picture after he fell asleep that this was going to be an interesting experience....already sideways after not very much time. So as any loving and experienced Mom would do, I surrounded the side of his bed with pillows....and since I am rather pregnant and getting up frequently during the night to use the potty :) I always peek in on him. I don't believe we have had a successful night of staying in the bed all through the night in these first weeks....not because he is sneaking out (although that has happened too - especially at nap time) but because of his twisting and turning and ending up on the floor. The good thing is that he is usually still sound asleep and I just lift him back in and he remains in dreamland.
These last two pics are capturing how I found him just last night - with his sweet little bum up in the air....this was at 7am so I just left him to wake up all on his own...
So there ya have it! My little Pierce is saying good-bye to being a little one. Next milestone to conquer - potty training. He seems quite interested so we may slowly begin this fun job!!
These first two pics are of him that first night. I could tell from snapping the picture after he fell asleep that this was going to be an interesting experience....already sideways after not very much time. So as any loving and experienced Mom would do, I surrounded the side of his bed with pillows....and since I am rather pregnant and getting up frequently during the night to use the potty :) I always peek in on him. I don't believe we have had a successful night of staying in the bed all through the night in these first weeks....not because he is sneaking out (although that has happened too - especially at nap time) but because of his twisting and turning and ending up on the floor. The good thing is that he is usually still sound asleep and I just lift him back in and he remains in dreamland.
These last two pics are capturing how I found him just last night - with his sweet little bum up in the air....this was at 7am so I just left him to wake up all on his own...
So there ya have it! My little Pierce is saying good-bye to being a little one. Next milestone to conquer - potty training. He seems quite interested so we may slowly begin this fun job!!
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Men In My Life...
Just stopping by quickly tonight to post a pic of the handsome men in my life! How can a girl be so spoiled?! We are all excited about meeting the newest little man and were thankful to receive a healthy checkup today. On Wednesday I will be at 31 weeks so the big event is fast approaching. Our family is full of life and energy - and yet there definitely seems to be enough love and excitement to welcome this newest boy as one of the crew. I am feeling great and need to post a pregnancy shot of my growing profile here soon. I am reminded tonight of how so very thankful I am for all the good in my life...
Monday, September 07, 2009
Fascinating...
It is my third time around as a Mom to witness the incredible process of language development in my child and yet it has not ceased to amaze me at how it actually happens. Pierce has jumped forward in the last few weeks in leaps and bounds. It seems like before we left for our summer travels, he was barely speaking anything understandable....now I feel like he says everything! (maybe not everything understandable....but he is truly talking!) I just can't get over how it all comes together in their little brains. I know he has been understanding for a long time and I guess all those words just sort of settle in the brain until they make enough sense to come out as language - in words, phrases, sentences. It is lots of fun and has provided entertainment for all of us in the family. As all little guys, Pierce has some trouble forming certain sounds but it doesn't slow him down from attempting to express every thought (and he seems to have many!) He can't seem to make the "ssss" sound at the beginning of a word so here are some of his classic substitutions:
Wop it = stop it
Wanna whim = Want to swim
Woup = soup
Wump = jump
etc.. etc..
All this just to say that I think this whole "growing up" thing is an amazing journey - all the changes a kid goes through in such a little span of time. I am thankful to get to to witness it happening in my boys!
Wop it = stop it
Wanna whim = Want to swim
Woup = soup
Wump = jump
etc.. etc..
All this just to say that I think this whole "growing up" thing is an amazing journey - all the changes a kid goes through in such a little span of time. I am thankful to get to to witness it happening in my boys!
Friday, September 04, 2009
We are Back
We made it back to Mexico City, tired and worn...and pulling out the inner strength and endurance to pack up a house full of things and move to our apartment. We had help from my dear bro-in-law Burke who was an absolute trooper and carried box after box of books, toys, shoes, etc.. We are now slowly getting settled. It is coming along and I do believe we will be happy in our new place - cozy and looking forward to re-establishing old routines and beginning new ones as our kids grow and our family grows :)
I wanted to blog this because it melts my heart when I think about it and I don't want to forget it.... Our boys have been through moving transitions in their young lives and I like to acknowledge that and give them time to express feelings or frustrations about that. During the last visit to the old house I sat all the boys down in their empty bedroom and we reminisced about the last year of our life in that house. A chance to say good-bye and to remember the good and bad times we experienced within the walls of that home. It is interesting what kids come up with and remember. As the time was winding down I asked who would like to lead a prayer thanking God for our time there. Reece quickly volunteered and voiced this prayer to God: "Dear God, thank you for this house and please take care of it. Bring a new family to live here if that is supposed to happen and help them." He said a few more things but what touched my heart is that while I was more wrapped up in the past, he saw to the future and the promise it held for someone else. I learned from my little 6 year old in that moment. I place a lot of value in memories and in past events and he very naturally taught me to see the good that can come in the future and to someone else from our change. In this change for our family, I am likely a bit more sentimental as I ponder the arrival of another sweet son, the way my three boys are changing and taking on new roles, and wondering what our future holds...but I am thankful today for this change - amidst the clutter and unpacked boxes that we step over and manuever around to try to get settled....I feel am optimistic hope peeking through and brightening this apartment. Good things are ahead of us and that is worth celebrating!
I wanted to blog this because it melts my heart when I think about it and I don't want to forget it.... Our boys have been through moving transitions in their young lives and I like to acknowledge that and give them time to express feelings or frustrations about that. During the last visit to the old house I sat all the boys down in their empty bedroom and we reminisced about the last year of our life in that house. A chance to say good-bye and to remember the good and bad times we experienced within the walls of that home. It is interesting what kids come up with and remember. As the time was winding down I asked who would like to lead a prayer thanking God for our time there. Reece quickly volunteered and voiced this prayer to God: "Dear God, thank you for this house and please take care of it. Bring a new family to live here if that is supposed to happen and help them." He said a few more things but what touched my heart is that while I was more wrapped up in the past, he saw to the future and the promise it held for someone else. I learned from my little 6 year old in that moment. I place a lot of value in memories and in past events and he very naturally taught me to see the good that can come in the future and to someone else from our change. In this change for our family, I am likely a bit more sentimental as I ponder the arrival of another sweet son, the way my three boys are changing and taking on new roles, and wondering what our future holds...but I am thankful today for this change - amidst the clutter and unpacked boxes that we step over and manuever around to try to get settled....I feel am optimistic hope peeking through and brightening this apartment. Good things are ahead of us and that is worth celebrating!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
On Our Way
Well, due to a heavy schedule of activity, I have failed to keep up with blogging about our crazy and fun filled summer. Perhaps the updates may begin filling the screen in September. Today, I am up packing and organizing suitcases for the beginnings of our journey back to Mexico. As I often do, I have mixed emotions...that sad feeling of leaving the comfort of family time and being with those here we love so much and yet the readiness to return to routine and no more suitcases. Our kids have been through their fair share of sleeping arrangements and travels...and have done quite well. We have good boys if I do say so myself :) We have had such a good time reconnecting with family, friends, and our partnering church in Louisville. "Good-byes" have had to become a regular part of our lives...and aren't always easy...but we are thankful for the time spent with everyone along the way. So the drive back through Texas, across the border, and south to Mexico City will be filled with lots of different feelings. I am thankful for my life and am interested to see how God will work in and around us this year. It is exciting to think about settling back into life, and routine, and school, and relationships, and ministry. The boys return to school this next week - Reece his first day of 1st grade on Monday. Chase his first day of Kindergarten on Tuesday. We will be moving to a new apartment by the end of the month so there will be a few busy days ahead before all this "settling" truly begins. We are looking forward to meeting our new baby - that time will be here sooner than we realize. And, so there surely is no shortage in the things that can occupy my mind and heart in these next days as we are "on the road again"! If this trip is going to happen I guess I had better get back to packing....
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Bear & Honey
We had a really fun time with Gary & Robin (Bear & Honey)! Here are a few pictures (I decided that a slideshow would be the most effective way for me to get caught up quickly to all the pics I have snapped!) to capture our new memories at their house, at the baseball game, and on our trip to New Mexico to ride the train (a huge highlight for all of us!) Thank you so much for your hospitality and to introducing us to the town of Chama, NM and its wonderful train ride. We had a super great time....
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