Henry's Family

Dinner Craziness

2012-02-17T21:32:00.001-05:00

The camera focused on Maggie instead of Henry but I still like the photo. Henry was very dirty from pasta and dessert. Maggie was being VERY naughty jumping up and trying to get any crumbs or grab hunks out of Henry’s hands. We usually lock her up.

5 1/2 Months–18 Weeks to Go

2012-02-16T15:54:00.001-05:00

At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. His lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and he's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath his gums. His eyes have formed, but his irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment.

If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers his body and the deep wrinkles on his skin, which he'll sport until he adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside his belly, his pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

Text from babycenter

Quick Fix on Bad Furniture Paint Job

2012-02-15T13:53:00.001-05:00

Before I made a some what serious attempt to begin refinishing furniture for a hobby, last April I brought our bedroom side table outside and spray painted it with black spray paint. A quick and quite shabby job. Now, there’s nothing wrong with using spray paint, but I did absolutely NO preparation. Zero. The results were okay at best. What I mean by that is: the paint was uneven, the surface was very rough in spots which caused it to collect way too much dust and the paint rubbed off in places to the touch. Well, it’s been sitting put in our living room and I have done nothing to improve our living room in our new fixer upper or nothing to improve the condition of my shabby night stand paint job. After dusting it for the 1 millionth time today (that’s a major exaggeration because I dislike dusting), I really had to do a quick fix.

Here it is on the front lawn of our rental last April.

This is the before look. We have two of the them I purchased in a second hand furniture store in Rockland, Maine that no longer exists. They came from a local resort that was redoing their interior. I need to work on this one as well. And my junk thrown in there. I have started on our bedroom and I am almost finished with the wall paint job. I just need to paint the furniture, build a head board and get rid of the junk you can see. We are storing stuff until I finish painting.

I think distressing a bad paint job ALWAYS helps. And sanding down the rough spots if you are not such a great spray painter .

You may see a few white specks/lumps – I just finished waxing. Waxing is another great way to fix a bad paint job. It helps soften & smooth out a surface AND it helps seal the paint job when you use a paint that is of low quality. I love the way a wax finish feels. So luxurious.

The wax hasn’t completely dried, but you get the picture.

Happy Valentine’s Day

2012-02-14T19:56:00.001-05:00

I couldn’t get this little monkey to stand still long enough to take a clear Valentine’s Day photo. I always think he looks super cute. I just can’t believe he’s our little boy! Good thing he’s cute because today he gave me a run for my money in the grocery store. I was thanking God that these occasions are rare and feeling bad for the rest of the customers. It wasn’t a pretty sight. Even on days like that, I am so grateful for his loving little heart and cute ways. He is so special. His daddy feels the same way. Soon I will have three Valentine’s - Daddy, Henry & baby♥.

Pinterest Post

2012-02-13T20:36:00.001-05:00

Abstract Cityscape. Via.

Avocado, tomato, corn, onion, cilantro dressing summer salad. Via.

DIY reclaimed wood table. Great for outside? Via.

I love the idea of urban container gardens. I love the idea of maximizing land use. It’s just doing it! Via.

Reclaimed wood ceiling ♥. So many possibilities – porch ceiling, kitchen ceiling etc. Via.

I like the idea of growing potatoes in a container. Via.

Marble or white granite? Either way – love the space. Via.

Ceiling, windows, island. Via.

Cathedral ceiling. Floors. Via.

Firsts for Henry

2012-02-11T10:14:00.001-05:00

Henry went to the doctor on Thursday just to make sure his cold wasn’t more than a cold – he’s prone to pneumonia. And he spent all Wednesday night barking and gasping for air. The doctor gave him a prescription nasal spray and recommended an antihistamine and said to watch his temps and appetite. So far so good. I am a firm believer in fresh and sunshine – a little Sonja Sue. So we went to the farm on Thursday and then again yesterday. Henry was pretty clingy yesterday and on the verge of bawling but pulled out of half way through the wagon ride.

Here he is holding the reins but very concerned with what Gladys is doing in the back of the wagon.

My friend’s son Lucca on his first wagon ride.

Karen’s son Kade sacked out in the wagon on the ride home.

Lighting a bonfire.

Henry having fun playing with the boys.

The beginning of some naughtiness.

McKenzie & Amber.

Forgetting he’s sick.

Tackled.

Older boys trying to make Henry wear his hat. They were helpful after Henry threw it over the stone wall.

Boys graciously playing Ring Around the Rosie with Henry.

Henry’s first game of Hide and Seek. He was lying down in the middle of the field hiding his face.\ .

Too tempting to look.

Henry getting ready for his first dirt bike ride. I can’t believe Stacey has a Raven’s flag ,

Thanks, McKenzie (Stacey’s husband’s niece who lives in the big house on the farm). You are the best with kids!

Dr. Mark Hyman on 6 Reasons to Avoid Dairy

2012-02-09T21:19:00.001-05:00

Just to bug Stacey… haha. I love Dr. Mark Hyman’s book Ultra Mind. After being put on a cocktail of prescriptions and being diagnosed with several issues in his 40’s, as an ER doctor he began to study the effects of heavy metals and other highly intolerant substances on the body. He has made a huge impact on autism and the war on Alzheimer's. He also has been able to cure several medical doctors from chronic health issues including mental health issues and chronic obesity. His book is very balanced. He is not against prescriptions but is into functional medicine (root cause) vs. traditional medicine (treating symptoms). He has authored several books and has a highly successful practice in MA.

Here he is on 6 Reason’s to Avoid Dairy. Click here.

Here are 7 Keys to Ultra Wellness. Click here.

21 Weeks Pregnant–19 Weeks to Go

2012-02-09T04:25:00.001-05:00

I am getting really excited about having two children (I know I already do but you know what I mean). I am very excited to see this little gymnast in flesh and blood. I know it will be an adjustment, I am just so excited and so grateful to God for such a wonderful blessing. And I am saying all this in the middle of the night or early morning after being up all night and still up with a sick child. Just wait until it’s two, right?

For the most part I feel fine. All these pregnancy hormones affect me more than with Henry. I seem to get light headed easier and get tired easier. Like the woman from my Bible study who is also pregnant and has a daughter Henry’s age, the last time around we were raising a toddler. Enough said.

We have a little acrobat on our hands. Seems like he is constantly doing back flips in their.

Here is some info from Babycenter:

Your baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — the length of a carrot. You may soon feel like he's practicing martial arts (I have been for quite a while!) as his initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to his activity (no pattern discovered – must be as random as the rest of us!) as you get to know him better. In other developments, your baby's eyebrows and lids are present now.

Congestion

2012-02-09T03:52:00.001-05:00

Henry has had a nasal cold for a couple of days. He’s been around so many people with a cold, I have been surprised his little body has held out this long. This afternoon he took a nap and it sounded like all the post nasal drip settled in his chest. Tonight at 2 am we had a replay of nap time but just more severe. It’s so weird how kids get the sickest in the middle of the night. We spent some time in the bathroom with a hot shower steaming. We tried to go back to bed in our bed with his head elevated but his breathing was so labored and he couldn’t get comfortable that I was planning on holding him in the bathroom all night (we did have a humidifier on). Dave suggested giving him one of his breathing treatments that we haven’t used in a long time. So we did and then, suddenly, someone sprang into energizer bunny. Wants to PAR-TY! So he’s up eating a snack and watching Kipper the Dog laughing his head off. We’re making the most of this all nighter!

Am I an Absalom?

2012-02-08T22:45:00.001-05:00

Great night at church. Great message on the Grace Hour radio program today. So many thoughts and meditations I don’t know if I can write them down.

I loved on Grace Hour how the message brought out that our love, our attitude has to be censored through the Word of God. It’s hard to put it into words and the right context without hearing the message. We don’t go forward in our mental attitude based on anything but checking it with what God thinks of it. And how could we ever without continuously studying the Word of God? I feel like I’m on a train headed down hill, gaining more and more momentum in the necessity of truly studying the Word of God. How could we ever have discernment about relationships, issues and the daily grind if we don’t know God’s thoughts? Lord, teach me.

And that brings me to tonight’s message. I want to say that I am so thankful for the many ministries out there. Great ministries and typing this is convicting me to pray more for them. Billy Graham, Ravi, Beth Moore (women’s ministry), Life Way, Kay Arthur (women’s ministry), David Jeremiah, the many who have gone before, the many amazing Christian authors and the multitude that are unknown to the general public. Lord, please bless them. Put a hedge of fire around them. I praise You that I can see and know You more through them. So that brings me to something I must say second after that little thought about other ministries. There was a man who sang tonight and spoke a little testimony after the message that packed a powerful punch. He goes to a seven footsteps program for new people at our church. He is/was so thankful for the grace message after being brought up and continuing in legalism his entire Christian life (I am summarizing). He was/is so thankful to be a part of a teaching church and to have a pastor like ours. Now, we have been back in Maryland for just over a year and I continue to be grateful for our church. I continue to be amazed (not in human idol worship way) at our pastor and his laid down life, his study of the Word, his humility and his deep love of the flock. Thank You, God for my pastor. May you give me a double portion of his blessing (ha-ha but not really – I’m not joking). Tonight our pastor preached on Acts 4:23 – the company we keep, the people of which we are a part. God must be really speaking (of course He is!)because I think the Grace Hour message had the same heart beat for lack of a better term. And God has been speaking these same things to me. Am I with people that lift me up and encourage my faith? Or am I with an Absalom or am I an Absalom? Absalom was the son of King David. Real family issues festered in Absalom until his chasm of bitterness swallowed others by his manipulating ways and drove him and his unhappy camper company to pursue David – and were hoping to kill. Am I or are you allowing unforgiveness to reign in your heart until finally it’s king of our life? By the grace of God and through the power of God I was delivered from being that person. I was an Absalom. I don’t ever want to be him again.

My Little Brother…

2012-02-08T16:17:00.001-05:00

Little brothers are just that. Little. Even when they are 6’5”, married, have 2 kids and a business. My little brother Zac will always remain a cute little boy in my mind. That is why when he sent me a text that he is joining Weight Watchers and to wish him luck, I couldn’t help but smile. He doesn’t have a weight problem. At all. But I totally get wanting to lose those 5 lbs and when you’re his height, 20 (he says). I am sure he will lose it in a week. I just can’t even believe it. It’s so cute.

Hopefully he will never read this and kill me….

Pinterest Post

2012-02-07T23:08:00.001-05:00

Drinking coffee in the afternoon after not having it for days was not the brightest of ideas…

So, now that I am on a post roll, I’ll show you some of my latest favorite Pinterest posts:

via. Seriously? Have these people watched property brothers or income property on HGTV? I personally believe a better investment is made with less money spent – stretch those dollars!

via. Now after I said stretch a dollar, take a look at those gorgeous doors and windows. ♥. Absolutely stunning and definitely way too much money for any house I have ever lived in!

Via. I really love the idea of making a barn like this out of a shelf for Henry.

Via. This makes me hungry just looking at it. Chicken salad in an avocado. Yum.

Via. Crab salad avocado.

Via. Modern white kitchen. I love cottage style kitchens but I could certainly love the modern element of this one as well. Love the gray subway tiles with the white grout. Love the two tone brought into the countertop selection as well.

Via. Brick floors are just so cool. And those distressed pieces add such a cool dimension to the room.

Via.

Via. How could you not love the ceiling, whitewashed brick walls and wide plank floors in this room. So absolutely cool.

Via. Not wood. These are tiles. Now talk about looks with durability!

Nana Linda Deserves a Medal

2012-02-07T22:51:00.001-05:00

Henry’s Nana Linda (aka Dave’s stepmother) reupholstered my settee for me. I can’t begin to share what an amazing woman she is. There is nothing Linda cannot conquer. Now I need to take some photos of the finished product!

Thank you, Linda!

And thanks for dinner, Granddad Butch!

Who Does Henry Look Like Quiz?

2012-02-07T22:46:00.001-05:00

Does Henry look like anyone in this photo? I think so! My father is the little boy on my grandfather’s lap.

Almost 21 Week Prenatal Check Up & More

2012-02-07T17:03:00.001-05:00

On our way to my doctor’s appointment this afternoon, I stopped at the Starbucks drive thru because I was seriously dragging. When driving down to pick up my order Henry had been quiet for a while and suddenly said, “Henry’s scared of snakes!” I asked him why and he told me they are gross. I just laughed. I knew my mom and grandmother would be happy. They are petrified of snakes. I don’t like them either but they give loathing a new meaning.

We went to the doctor’s appointment. Henry has been really interested in doctors and hospitals lately. Everything the doctor did to me he would tell the doctor it was his turn now. She was a good sport and complied. So cute. When she listened to the baby’s heartbeat, Henry said horses again. The doctor gets a kick out of that every time. Then Henry wanted her to listen to his belly and she did. She told him he didn’t have any horses but he really wanted them in his belly too.

Next we went to a local market to get Henry a special treat (dark chocolate covered almonds). He was being a really good boy and was really into socializing with the people around him as usual. When we were in the check out line, there were a bunch of people in it as well. Everyone was quiet and probably impatient. Henry was loving the crowd and suddenly said, “Happy Holidays, everybody!” Everyone thought it was quite funny so then he kept saying it to everyone. I have no idea where he go that from since I never say.

Next we went to the UPS store which wasn’t as calm. Then off to the park. We played at the park for a little while, and then Henry took off running because he saw a dog in the soccer field. I wasn’t too pleased but as I approached the scene I saw two men. One perfectly healthy and one in a wheel chair. I would say they were in their 20’s maybe early 30’s. They were very nice and were throwing a ball to the service dog that was with them. Henry was laughing his ever loving guts out. I think it made their day. I was trying to discretely assess the situation while all of this was going on. The man in the wheel chair had definitely been severely wounded in the war. He had a purple heart wheel chair. Both of his legs were completely missing and parts of his hands were too. I was overcome with the insufficiency of gratitude I could ever display for such a service and such a sacrifice for our freedom. Saying “thank you” seemed so small. I stood in disbelief on how my life was so normal (for a lack of better terms) and this man’s life was forever altered. He was learning a new life. Now, I know God has a plan for all of us. Sometimes the evidence of God is in what people actually survive. I read that in my morning Bible study. People suffer a lot. But God is still there and God has a plan. I was really scared to say thank you to him. But I finally did. I wanted to cry but that would have been completely selfish.

Later I noticed a missed call and I called my mother back. I asked her what you do for people like that to show them your gratitude and she told me to treat them like they are normal. Wow, that is exactly right.

Old Rockport House

2012-02-06T21:45:00.001-05:00

I was showing Henry some photos of him when he was a baby and found some old photos of people visiting our old Rockport house long before Henry was born. We had such good times in that house!

This is before we did any renovations. Maggie loved attacking the Bible College students that visited. This might have been the end of 2005 or 2006.

Narj & Maggie dancing. Narj is Pastor Narj now and is married and a missionary to his native country Nepal.

Ulla from Sweden lives in Baltimore. Doug is now a Pastor in India (blond guy) and ins married. The girl in pink was a local girl who was very neglected and was at our house all the time.

Pastor Jon is now married and has a child and is planting a church in Las Vegas. Amazing to see what God has done!

Possibly the summer of 2005. Girl on the left is from Poland visiting Maine from Baltimore. Two girls in the middle were visiting Maine from Baltimore.

Natalia again from Poland visiting us in Maine from Baltimore. Pastor Wally, Pastor Schaller and Pastor Morrison all visiting us as well. Was a packed house that weekend.

Uncle Wayne, German girl I think her name is Jasmin, Jane Pinette, Joe Custer sitting and Pastor Narj.

Pastor Chris, missionary to Poland and Ukraine and now planting a church in Philly, visiting us the same weekend.

Pastor Morrison and other visiting the same night.

Sitting on floor room only .

Stacey’s house New Year’s Eve time between 2005 & 2006

Snowball aka the brat has been around for a while…

50th Anniversary of the grandparents…

Henry Between 6–8 Months Old

2012-02-05T19:22:00.002-05:00

We have a camera card in one of those electric photo frames and I decided to upload the photos since I never have. At least I don’t think I have.

On the Henry note, he has been doing a lot of things I should write down on here. He is so cute and so smart. Every day I just stare at him and thank God for the miracle he is.

Maggie on her beloved couch that we actually liked too and she totally destroyed. This is when we were living at the rental house on Hobb’s Pond for a few months.

Trying to post these pictures in between Ring Around the Rosie which has been one of Henry’s favorites lately, though I have no idea where he learned it.

Cute silent video of Henry here http://s1084.photobucket.com/albums/j408/rachaelu/Old%20photos%20when%20Henry%20was%20baby/?action=view&current=PB120025.mp4.

My mom’s Sunday School Class doing a Christmas song. Sam, Molly’s son, is the one in the green striped sweater.

Henry and Maggie sleeping in our cellar dweller bedroom at our rental.

Friday Horse & Wagon Ride

2012-02-03T19:10:00.001-05:00

Gassing up at the local country gas station

Do you see Henry in the orange coat? If you look closely you can see him chucking his shoe at the passing cars. Yeah, really funny. I didn’t know I caught it on film. I just happened to see his shoe in the middle of the street while I was taking photos. Julian got his shoe and then Henry threw it again. I asked the kids to take both of his shoes off and hide them.

Traffic Jam.

Why? Donut Ads on Facebook

2012-02-02T18:57:00.001-05:00

Via Katz Gluten Free.

Why oh why are there donut ads on facebook when a pregnant woman is just trying to have a mindless activity? Let me tell you, their ad worked. I instantly saw it. But I want them now. And I want to eat a dozen in one sitting.

Inspiration Fieldtrip

2012-02-02T17:06:00.001-05:00

Today Amber and I took a fieldtrip with our boys who are the same age to a warehouse where a man in our church and his business partner have a business designing and refinishing furniture. I wasn’t able to get a lot or any great photos because we were trying to keep to almost three year olds from jumping on some fun things.

Henry taking in the scenery.

Mr. Yanosky (not sure of spelling) and his business partner work with interior designers who have clients. The designers send requests for custom made items and then Mr. Yanosky and his partner design them from scratch. Pretty cool.

This is the top of the the dresser in the first photo. The finish almost makes it look like marble.

Amber checking out some antique sconces they are working on.

Custom table.

It was a really fun adventure and so glad Amber invited me to come along.

20 Weeks Pregnant–Halfway Point

2012-02-02T16:45:00.001-05:00

I can’t believe I am at the halfway point of this pregnancy but on the other hand I can’t believe I have equally as long to go as I have already been. Maybe because I am tired today.

I am very blessed, though, to have such a great pregnancy so far. So grateful.

So things I have been thinking about lately:

This kid moves a lot! And I can feel him move from the outside already!
I just don’t feel like exercising. Usually I can force myself even when I don’t feel like it but I just don’t have any will power. I am so tired when I have a free moment to do it (like now), that I just want to sit and veg out.
I go from wanting to eat raw vegetables to craving a hot fudge sundae or a greasy diner burger. Sounds pretty darn good right now.
Did I say that I am tired? Just kidding. I have no memory. Today I asked my friend when I was at her house this week and she said yesterday. Wow, yesterday seems so far away (ha-ha).
Sleeping is already not easy because I am a light sleeper and my sense of hearing seems like it’s on steroids. This morning the coffee maker it the kitchen seemed like it was on a loud speaker.
I don’t really feel grumpy or bawly or mad. I do bawl at things more easily like reading a story about starving children in Africa could really push me over the edge. Like Sunday when I was watching Downton Abbey I wanted to bawl about the hardships WWI soldiers endured. So I guess I am bawly but not if someone said what’s wrong with your hair or told me they have a problem with me.
Speaking of food, I am starving. I go from not feeling like anything to starving so fast.
I have very weird dreams but that is pretty typical of me. For some reason a major theme has always been airplane crashes. I just seem to have them more often now. Either I see an airplane crash or I have been in an airplane crash. Weird, I know.

Here is what Baby Center says about 20 Weeks:

Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.)

He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system. He's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in his bowels, and you'll see it in his first soiled diaper (some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery).

Insecurity

2012-02-02T07:31:00.001-05:00

Last night at church (it was a great message) Dave and I were sitting in the back (we do now that I am pregnant because I feel more comfortable) and across the aisle from us was a group of teenagers from the Christian Day School. Well, I kept catching them look at me – which means I was looking at them ha-ha. Then my friend Beth and her son came in late and ended up beside us. At the end of the service we were laughing and chatting and she said out of the blue, “Why do they keep looking at me? Is there something on me? I am really not that interesting.” And I just marveled at how quickly insecurity can strike around a group of teenagers if you are not on your game (and Beth is one of the least insecure people I know). And that got me thinking about insecurity and pride and other things.

I never really thought of insecurity as pride until I was reading a Beth Moore book a few years ago. From our message at church last night Romans 12:3 tells us to not think too highly about ourselves. Any of us can fall into a trap thinking about what others are thinking about us or even filling others’ heads with thoughts about us. Coming from a broken family I spent a lot of time thinking how much people didn’t love me or like me or wondering what my immediate family thought of me or even was extremely hurt they didn’t think of me at all. I know our enemy knows our background and can attempt to reel us right back into that whole game.

When God really showed me that most of the time people are thinking of themselves and not about me, and if I am thinking about how people think about me all the time, even if I am focusing on the negative and have a poor self image, I AM THINKING TOO MUCH ABOUT MYSELF. It is the most dangerous and subtle form of pride. Feeling sorry for myself for hours or days or weeks and dwelling on myself is a form of pride because it’s self focus. Wow, that really delivered me. And, of course, I, like everyone else, can still fall victim to this, but I praise God that we all can be released from a life of self absorption – even if we have been truly hurt and we all have.

My late pastor used to say humility isn’t thinking too highly or too lowly of yourself, it’s not thinking of yourself at all. The last few years, since God has delivered me from major insecurities (which I think allows us to forgive people more easily), I try to remember this when others’ insecurities trip me up. Sometimes people are not nice or not friendly or many other things because they are hurting people. They need to be loved and delivered from this monster the devil wants to throw on all of us – insecurity. Kick him out and don’t let him back in. It frees you up to think about other things. Things like God.

Kicker on Our Hands

2012-02-01T16:10:00.001-05:00

I don’t remember being able to feel Henry kick from the outside so early. I think we have a kicker on our hands!

Henry had a play date today. So cute. I think they were in more competition than into friendship. Lucca & Henry were born the same month – Lucca 11 days older.

70 Degree weather = sledding on the grass .

Battle of the Wills

2012-02-01T08:56:00.001-05:00

I am so encouraged in the Lord. I am doing my Psalms Bible study and today is on the beginning part of Psalm 127.

¹ Unless the LORD builds a house,
its builders labor over it in vain;
unless the LORD watches over a city,
the watchman stays alert in vain.
² In vain you get up early and stay up late,
working hard to have enough food—
yes, He gives sleep to the one He loves.^[a]

I have built so many things in vain (many in the name of God). The more I meditate on this subject and go before God on my face, the more I see my biggest problem and maybe the biggest problem of all Christians is a battle of the will. I think most of us who follow the Lord have a heart towards Him and want to grow, but I still forge ahead in my own godly plans. I still warm my hands by the fire of the Lord instead of letting God light my life on fire for Him as He did with Peter at Pentecost (from a recent message from Pastor Schaller). It’s so encouraging to know a big part of our struggle can end when we truly believe God has our best interest at heart even when He brings us through the fire. We can lay all of our plans and desires at the altar and watch a new life resurrect greater than anything we can imagine. Now that is one tall order for a girl from New England who could probably like Cain go out and build a city from her own strength – hopefully not after murdering someone (also from a recent message).

Let the Fortification Begin

2012-01-31T21:37:00.001-05:00

Dave just got home and asked me to make him a Greek yogurt smoothie (he is not gluten or dairy free). I wasn’t really up to it but then, of course, did it but had to add some humor to the process. He was over seeing me pull out the ingredients from the freezer and with an evil laugh I said, “Let the fortification begin!” He didn’t appreciate it. “No flax seed or any thing that makes it gritty or grainy!”

Where did I get this from? Earlier today Stacey was shamelessly bragging about how her first custard she made for her ailing mother in-law turned out great thanks to the guidance of my mother. I asked if she fortified it and she asked me how I knew my mother wanted her to fortify it. I grew up with her. A quick bread is code word for protein bar in disguise. I know all about Sonja Sue’s fortification.

P.s. Stacey wasn’t really bragging. It just went with the story better.

Pinterest Post & More

2012-01-31T20:02:00.001-05:00

It’s 7:30. Dave is at Bible College, the dog is snoring next to me and Henry is fast asleep in his room. Henry sleeping by 7:30 is unheard of but he had a rough day on the farm playing with a little toy tractor Uncle Johnny got him, petting horses, going on a walk in 65 degree weather, playing bumper carts in the grocery store with aunt Stacey, and checking out a remote control fire truck Uncle Johnny set up for him. Life is hard for a two year old when a day hold so much fun.

House Hunters is on Louisville where my cousins live. I love checking out new cities on HH – especially if someone I love lives there and I have never been!

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Dave is getting trained in mortgages. He’s in his third week of training and third week of this semester of Bible College. He’s holding up really well for all the changes and demanding schedule.

I am so proud of him. The job he just finished he started learning a year ago. He always ranked top five in his department and many times in the country and there are people that have been there for several years doing it. He is taking this learning and testing with great strides and I know he will do as well as he always does.

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Looking forward to some visitors in the month of February. Not sure which ones will pan out but I think my mom definitely will in the end of the month. My father might show up as well and Henry is looking forward to going to the aquarium with him.

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This one’s for Stacey who has recently become obsessed with avocadoes. Via.

I love floor to ceiling windows. Via.

Love, love, love the style of windows. Love the woodwork design of the the island. Via.

I am not so into open air living but the idea of this is really cool. Just don’t think I would appreciate any uninvited guests. Via.

I am much more of a big picture person – wall color, kitchen redo, etc – but I totally appreciate a person with a vision for the finishing touches. I love the frames and placement of these pictures. Via.

This must be a new rage because Stacey just showed me more of these today in a magazine. Via.

I love wood walls painted white. It just adds another dimension to the room. And so much character. Via.

Cute pregnancy photo. Brave person to let people know the name before birth. Via.

I just love tufted sofas. Way out of my budget but the love is still there. Via.

Cute photo op. Pregnancy and infant. ♥. Via.

Something really cool about about this cabinet. Via.

I like the idea of replacing a bedside lamp with a pendant light or wall sconce. Via.

Full Weekend

2012-01-29T22:20:00.001-05:00

I loved the messages at church today. So good.

We can speak from our opinion or we can have rivers of living water from our belly – God speaking through us to other men and women. How do we do that? We are always feeding the old man or we are feeding Christ in us. When the Disciples decided to go fishing after the resurrection Christ invited them to come and dine with Him. Satan’s main objective is to get us to live in anything outside of our position in Christ. What he has, what the world has and what we have in our natural produces a famine in the land no matter how much we eat. When Christ invites us He gives us a new level of food that can bring such amazing paradox in our lives. We can have tragedy but have hope and joy in the midst. We have God living in us. We have eternal life. Simple but profound. Sometimes so simple that we complicate with our natural man.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

On another note… Downton Abbey was so heart wrenching tonight. I know it’s just a Masterpiece Theatre drama, but man oh man, it has really crushed my heart for our current troops (based in Britain during WWI). To think of the sacrifice they make to go and then they come back whole but never the same but sometimes they come back physically altered as well. What an effect it must have on them and their families. I am so grateful and my heart breaks.

Friday & Saturday on the Farm

2012-01-28T21:11:00.001-05:00

Yesterday Henry and I joined Stacey and a crew for a wagon ride…

Lulu was a little upset she didn’t get to come along…

View from the back of the wagon…

Down the road at the Italian deli… waiting for a snack.

Stacey’s friend Karen and some of her nine children.

View from the back of the wagon facing front.

Today after Saturday morning evangelism and home for lunch, Emma, Henry and I headed up to the farm so Emma could see the horses. It was truly a little girl’s idea of a dream day.

I love Lulu’s color against the dreary backdrop of winter.

This photo shows her youth..

Emma and Lulu

Horses running wild

Lulu, mommy Pearl and Snowball

We are gorgeous watch us run.

I can fly.

Here comes Lulu’s mommy Pearl

Emma on Pearl

Yes, my hair is naturally curly.

Pals.

Little boys love mud.

Unwanted farm guest assassinated by Amos.

Stacey removing the murder evidence.

Happy Birthday

2012-01-27T08:15:00.001-05:00

Pregnancy brain has hit this girl hard! A couple of weeks ago I asked my sister in-law if my nephew Christopher’s birthday was on the 30 or 31 because I kept switching back and forth. Well! His birthday is on the 29th of January! Last year on his first birthday the 29 was our first full day in Maryland. We moved here on the 28th.

Anyway! Happy 2nd birthday to my adorable nephew Christopher Vincent!!!

And if they weren’t bad enough, I completely forgot to say happy birthday to my beautiful sister in-law who just moved to Atlanta! Her birthday was on the 22nd! This month is moving too fast!

Happy birthday beautiful Kelly.

Kelly is in the back with her husband Tom.

More Than Cousins

2012-01-26T20:01:00.001-05:00

My group of cousins (pictured above with Vinny and me who are the blondest kids on the left) on my dad’s side who are all siblings were the closest in age to Vinny and me on either side of the family. We were close when we were little then both of our families experienced some changes (including physical distance) which were factors in us not seeing much of each other until we were teenagers. Then we were close again for a few years and family changes along with going different places as young adults allowed us to drift apart again. The last few years I have had more contact with all but Will who is the youngest and closest to my age. This past week God has given me an extraordinary blessing by reconnecting with Will and meeting his wife (online & texting). I have learned that in all these years apart we have become more alike than we could have ever imagined. I can clearly see the hand of God has been firmly on the lives of each of these cousins. Will and his wife are walking with God and it’s their desire to serve Him with all of their hearts and glorify Him in everything they do. I am so excited to share this walk with them and not only call them my cousins but my brother and sister in Christ.

My cousin Matt & his wife Kimberli and Norita & Will.

19 Weeks Pregnant

2012-01-26T10:58:00.001-05:00

We hung around some people that had some type of stomach bug this week. Henry woke up with a fever and I would up with some cramping and other stuff. I am praying his body is fighting it off and some sleep will cure him. He is sleeping right now but rather restless. I am also praying all of this cramping is from a virus and nothing harmful to baby.

Other than that this pregnancy is going really well. Some things I am noticing is still can get very tired suddenly. That could be attributed to pregnancy or not sticking to food I know goes well with my body or lack of exercise. I seemed to have gotten out of my long term groove ever since Henry was so sick just before Christmas.

I also notice that I go from having no appetite to starving very fast and consume large amounts of food at that point.

Please pray for us if you think of it. Dave started school and training for a new job so it’s been a transition and we really don’t want him to get sick too. And it would be great for the rest of it to be fleeting.

Here’s some text from Babycenter.com

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! His brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that he may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to him, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. His arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. His kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on his scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on his skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

We Have an Enemy

2012-01-25T10:20:00.001-05:00

Ephesians 6 reminds us we, as Christians, have an enemy. And it’s not the person attacking you at work. It’s not the family member who seems to have disowned you. It’s not your spouse if you are not getting along. It’s not the annoying person on the highway or checkout line. Our enemy is not flesh and blood. Although our enemy is very good at enlisting flesh and blood. Sometimes us. Sometimes other Christians. I love it when scripture reminds me of this. I releases me to love others more than my own skin even when the relationship is strained.

Where would we be without God? Seriously. Even when we were enemies and even when we continue to disrespect Him on a daily basis. I did an exercise today in my Bible study thinking about where my life would be if God had delivered me in areas (He will continue by His grace until I go home). Scary thoughts.

Psalm 124:2 – 8 (The Message {I do not endorse this particular translation – don’t know enough about it but love the text for these verses}).

If God hadn't been for us
      when everyone went against us,
   We would have been swallowed alive
      by their violent anger,
   Swept away by the flood of rage,
      drowned in the torrent;
   We would have lost our lives
      in the wild, raging water.
⁶ Oh, blessed be God!
      He didn't go off and leave us.
   He didn't abandon us defenseless,
      helpless as a rabbit in a pack of snarling dogs.
⁷ We've flown free from their fangs,
      free of their traps, free as a bird.
   Their grip is broken;
      we're free as a bird in flight.
⁸ God's strong name is our help,
      the same God who made heaven and earth.

Healing in the Word of God

2012-01-24T21:00:00.001-05:00

What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Nothing.

What can heal me from my past? What can heal my mind from scars?

A prayer? Sometimes a prayer can have immediate deliverance. A sermon? Sometimes a sermon can heal a deep wound instantly. Godly counsel from a friend? A word in season can reach deep into dark place in the soul and sometimes can deliver us instantly in an area. Reaching out beyond ourselves to help others with the love of God? Self focus is our worst enemy so focus on others is always healthy and can also deliver immediate deliverance sometimes.

I think the longer we walk with the God the more areas of our lives are instantly touched by the aforementioned. I also think the more we walk with God, the more God reveals to us more needs to be healed. I love how Watchman Nee says that the most dangerous place to be is having just enough God to be worthless to the world but not giving enough of ourselves over so we remain a miserable Christian for decades (thinking this Christian life just doesn’t work). He also goes into how God is patient enough to bring us through the same test/trial in different variations over and over again until we have been transformed into His image in that area. The answer to every problem is Jesus Christ. I am convinced and more so every day that I need to succumb to the need for the Word of God that God is cultivating in me. Studying more, learning more so that Word of God can wash my mind, heal my mind, deliver me in areas – family stronghold, patterns of thinking, pride – that may have been there for years. It also delivers me into new levels of joy. New levels of surrendering my will, my life only to gain a greater life. It’s so amazing. The more we let go, the more we gain. And building a relationship with the Word of God in addition (there has to be more) to church services, radio programs and what I have learned in the past is becoming my only way to continued and greater victory. Such a joy.

Where's Your Baby Brother? Video

2012-01-23T16:50:00.000-05:00

I laughed my head off the first time I asked him this question just a few minutes before when we were cuddling on my bed together. I just had to ask him again so I could get it on camera. So cute!

Milk. Does it Do a Body Good?

2012-01-21T14:06:00.001-05:00

I was recently having a discussion about organic milk farms. The other person was saying people should rethink drinking organic milk because the cows aren’t treated with antibiotics when they are infected.

I think people should rethink eating dairy period. Here’s an interesting article here about dairy and the human body. There are also many books loaded with info on the harms of dairy in the body.

I do break down occasionally since pregnant and eat something with dairy in it. I always immediately notice an increase of mucus.

Here’s a great article on organic vs. regular milk. Click here and decide for yourself.

Off the Charts Cuteness Factor

2012-01-21T08:15:00.001-05:00

Henry made his own sleigh and took off as Santa with Rudolph. He’s holding Rudolph’s scarf which he was using for reins.

Maggie the dog and her boy♥.

And she’s getting another boy♥.

Been enjoying a quiet snowy morning while the family sleeps.

I made ground turkey chili last night for dinner. It was pretty darn good. I also made Bob’s Red Mill gluten free corn mix (not sure if photo above is correct). I used rice milk instead of cow’s milk. I am not sure if we are just used to a low quality corn muffin or if the mix was a little weird tasting. Nevertheless, it was okay and we ate but didn’t love it. Coulda been the rice milk too. That stuff is off the charts sick.

It’s a Boy (continued)

2012-01-20T13:48:00.001-05:00

Here’s my attempt to take a photo of the ultrasound profile. Baby boy was quite busy during the ultrasound – making the tech a little impatient with him.

Wednesday night we go to church (Henry included unless Me-maw watches him). Usually a late night doesn’t impact wake up time – just the attitude on Thursday morning. Yesterday was an exception. Henry usually wakes up between 7:30 – 8:00 and then immediately is ready for breakfast. I had to force him awake at ten after nine. We rushed to my Bible study which is 20 – 25 minutes away. Rushed to pick up a rotisserie chicken at Walmart after on the way to Stacey’s house. Tried to get Henry to eat as much as possible in the 15 minutes we had to spare. Jumped back in the car with Stacey in tow. Got into a conversation and completely missed the no turn on red sign minutes away from our destination. I confessed to the officer I was a totally distracted driver. When he was sitting in his car for several minutes my nervousness about the ultrasound mutated into irrational fears about what the officer was about to do. Fortunately he only gave me a warning (he really was a very nice man) but then took several minutes giving me a car seat installation tutorial. Apparently I really needed it because I have been doing it completely wrong for almost three years. And, no, it wasn’t simple things that I missed. It was things I didn’t even know existed. I asked Stacey if she ever knew and she admitted she didn’t either.

We got to the appointment almost 25 minutes late and the receptionist said I couldn’t be seen at that time. I was relieved I didn’t get a ticket but a little nerved up from the event and even more so that the ultrasound would be delayed. I just wanted to breathe a sigh of relief that the baby was okay.

While I rushed into the building, Stacey so kindly helped Henry out of the car. While she was getting him out he told her he wanted to read the Dora book inside. She didn’t really believe that he knew that since the building was non-descript and he had only been there once before a few months prior. When they came inside she told me she had to see something. Henry ran across the waiting rooms, reached underneath the TV and pulled out the Dora book. Stacey was shocked and announced to the entire waiting room that Henry was a genius. That made my day before my day was made by the ultrasound.

We were called into the ultrasound room within 30 – 45 minutes. The tech was very stoned faced which made this nervous mother a little more nervous. She allowed me to go to the bathroom after the major photos were taken and I did some serious praying while I was in there. I came back out and her mood seemed a little lighter (what’s up with some female ultrasound techs? – this wasn’t my first nerve-racking experience). I told her everyone told me I was having a girl and she quickly corrected the situation with an image of some very male parts. She told me everything looked good at the end which really set my mind at ease. I walked out of the building 10 feet above the path I walked in. And celebrated with some gluten free chocolate covered pretzels. Who doesn’t want to eat after stress?

I am so thankful to God for the wonderful blessing of a baby boy. So thankful!

We’re Having Another Boy

2012-01-19T19:41:00.001-05:00

If I could get into my computer screen and do a halleluiah dance or fall prostrate to my Father in heaven to display to the whole world how grateful I am to have had a healthy ultrasound today I would. I don’t like the looks of myself in a photo but nothing compares to the thankfulness, love and gratitude I feel towards my God and my Lord Jesus Christ. The bonus is we are having a baby boy! I have to confess I was rather shocked because everyone else was telling me I was having a girl and I became convinced. I ALMOST purchased a dress on Zulilly AND I have only been mulling over girls’ names in my head. Before I found about Henry I couldn’t imagine having a boy even though I was pretty sure I was having one. Now I couldn’t imagine life without him! So two boys it is! Now I just have to get into the swing of it in my mind and start thinking about boys’ names and boys’ things (boys’ clothes just aren’t as exciting).

I would show photos of the ultrasound but I have to take photos of the photos and it’s easier during the day. Speaking of day, this day will be a day to remember on top of the aforementioned because I got pulled over by the police on the way to my appointment and was late! Another story in itself!

Here’s some text from babycenter.com….

Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.

I’m not really getting last week’s size of a turnip and this week’s size of a bell pepper because in my mind the former is larger than latter. But hey, it’s an illustration.

Boy!!

2012-01-19T16:48:00.001-05:00

Boy!!

Less Than 48 Hours–18 Week Ultrasound/ Pinterest Post

2012-01-17T20:31:00.001-05:00

Less than

hours…

We have had a busy 7 days with Maggie getting sick and some gifts right from the throne of God to Dave which I will tell later. Needless to say we are in transition this week. Dave started this semester of Bible College last night and training for a new position today.

I am SO thankful to God. So. All glory goes to Him.

I am a little nervous about Thursday. Nervous excitement. It just becomes more real.

So without further adieu, I will do a Pinterest post…

Love the wider plank bead board, love the rustic floors. Like the tone on tone or neutral color scheme. Via.

I really love the tile floors, brick ceiling, farm sink and window design. I am not a fan of dark grout with light tiles. Via.

Quite the tub, quite the window, quiet simplicity. Via.

Have I posted this before? Great lines. I love how the bottom of the white cabinets is designed almost to look like a piece of furniture. Love the two tones. Love the floor. Via.

I am a fan of light grout. Pretty tiles. Via.

I like the mixture of fabrics and color scheme. Via.

I think I want this. Yum.

I like the pendants. I like the faucet though Dave brought up a good point that having the sink in the middle of the kitchen makes a great display for dirty dishes. The built in bar made low is unique and the wood is very cool. Via.

I should go to sleep because I am so tired! But I won’t.

Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Last Speech

2012-01-16T11:47:00.002-05:00

Great day to honor a godly man.

*******************************************************************************

Only 3 days until the next ultrasound!

Sunday Night–Church & Downtown Abbey ♥

2012-01-15T22:22:00.001-05:00

Pastor Wright’s Sunday night message was a hallmark. Listen here. He comes after Pastor Cannon who also preached a great message. I have never heard humility and lowliness put the way he did tonight. We can choose to humble ourselves and God will get us where we want to be even if we don’t know how to get there. If we don’t choose humility we eventually get humiliation. Trying to use our own resources. Being lowly can seem like quitting. But it’s not giving up, it’s giving over. Wow. I love it. Going right along with the new Bible study I started Stepping Up by Beth Moore. It’s on the Psalms of Ascent. Hooked already and only on day three of homework.

I am not one to have a “show” but I do go nuts over Masterpiece Theatre series. I have always watched them after the fact on Netflix, but for the first time ever, Dave and I are watching a series as it airs and we are hooked. We watched season one of Downtown Abbey online just before we moved to Maryland and now we are watching season two. So good.

Focus on the Family - John 3:16 Video

2012-01-15T10:21:00.000-05:00

I have to confess, I am not much of a TV sports fan. I didn't watch the New England Denver Game last night. My husband did. I did glean this commercial from others watching it ;).

Henry’s Current Top Foods

2012-01-14T19:30:00.001-05:00

Here are Henry’s current top foods (not in any order). So cute

Photo via

Kalamata Olive Humus

photo via

Gluten free, dairy free, egg free French toast (& not served with syrup!)

Photo via

Trader Joe’s has the best frozen green beans. Almost as good as fresh and Henry LOVES them sautéed in olive oil, sea salt and garlic.

Photo via

Sliced Pork Salami

Strawberries

Red Grapes

Raw Almonds

Do Not Be Afraid!

2012-01-13T14:51:00.001-05:00

17 Weeks Pregnant

2012-01-12T20:58:00.001-05:00

Your baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop. (Text from babycenter.com).

7 Days until my next ultrasound. Lord willing we will find out if it’s a boy or girl.

Hayride on Beautiful January Day & More

2012-01-12T19:37:00.001-05:00

Not in order…

18 Week Ultrasound in 8 Days

2012-01-11T19:05:00.001-05:00

In 8 days, Lord willing, we find out if we are having a boy or a girl.

Maggie the Dog’s Back Injury & Dental Work

2012-01-10T16:45:00.001-05:00

Anyone who knows us well knows Maggie is our beloved hound, our first child – but of course has recently taken back seat to our human child and one on the way. She is still very loved and even more when she isn’t feeling well.

The last couple of days she has had a very difficult time moving around. Especially getting up stairs, on the couch and on the bed (I know that probably grosses some out). This is completely out of character as she is usually leaping and jumping around. Mostly when an innocent person walks by the house or anyone is eating food within 50 feet. She has been pretty quiet the last couple of days.

I took her to the vet this morning as I was very concerned with her behavior/lameness. Turns out she has a back sprain. While she was there we had her teeth cleaned and looked at because we were told she should probably have them pulled at least a year and a half ago. This sudden sickness was making me feel guilty about letting an infection brew in her mouth for months. She did end up having to go under anesthesia and getting some abscessed teeth pulled and she will probably be on antibiotics and some med for her back issue.

I had some people praying for her and am very happy that it was a rather minor issue. Now we just need prayer that we can keep her movement limited. Keeping a spoiled dog from beds and couches is very difficult.

Dave is picking her up on his way home from work. I just called to see that she woke up from her minor surgery okay.

Fast Friends

2012-01-09T22:58:00.001-05:00

I love this photos of Saltanat (my late brother’s girlfriend) and Grampa at their first meeting last month. My brother passed away 3.5 years ago. We were able to meet Saltanat, who is from across the world, just recently. I was not there, but she and my grandfather hit it off immediately which was not shocking to any of us .

My Little Tractor Man

2012-01-09T17:24:00.001-05:00

Jewelry Making Art Class

2012-01-09T17:02:00.001-05:00

Supplies: Silver Jewelry wire, Pliers, Sea Glass, Small Beads, Earring Hoops, other misc. stuff.

More photos of finished products hopefully coming.

She did it!

Inspiration via.

More Horse-Drawn Wagon Photos

2012-01-07T20:45:00.001-05:00

Horse-Drawn Wagon Ride–Spring January Day

2012-01-06T23:16:00.001-05:00

On the Farm Again.. Henry just couldn’t wait to get on the farm again…

Wilbur biting the fence.

A little concerned about the proximity of the mighty beasts aka horses and donkeys. Thanks, McKenzie, for always helping out.

Beautiful animals.

Not the best photo of us and I am wearing a stolen sweatshirt.

Baby of nine.

One of Karen’s nine children.

Another one of nine.

Mom of nine.

Toddlers talk.

This totally captures number eight-of-nine’s personality

No, wait, this one is better!

Lonely Pony

Stopped by the farm neighbors after giving the kids a lift from the school bus to their house.

4 Months Pregnant

2012-01-05T08:31:00.001-05:00

I have been thinking I should really have a photo taken of myself but that usually isn’t high on every woman’s list.

Captivated. That’s how I feel about Henry. Last night I was meditating a lot because I just couldn’t sleep. I am so in awe that there was nothing and then there is Henry. He is this miraculous being created by God. I just can’t get over it.

I was also thinking how a relationship with a child as a parent can be much like our relationship with God. I had a lot of fear before becoming a parent – how it would fit into my life and I think many people have that with God. “I am just so busy and I have so many priorities that don’t include a child or God.” And I think people who have a child or have a relationship with God can get jealous or bitter towards God or the child for infringing on their own personal desires. BUT for the most part, I think it goes like this. I was thinking of that foam spray that used to be used and may still be used to filling cracks around a door. I remember my grandparents had it in their hallway leading to their den and it was orange and hard. When God or a a child comes into your life there is so much joy and love that you never knew before. With God it fills a void that it was designed to fill. With both child and God, your life is overflowing with love and the cracks begin to be filled and then it expands so much that all those things you were worried about losing start breaking apart and you don’t even care. Because, now (especially with God), you are living how you were created to live and you realize all those other things are blessings (maybe cursings) and they just don’t matter as much anymore.

I am overwhelmed with the love for my child and my currently-being-formed-child and especially overwhelmed with a gentle, loving, giving, Fatherly, teaching, caring Creator Who has blessed my life with these people.

Text via babycenter

How your baby's growing:

Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.

Frankenhauser Family

2012-01-05T07:14:00.001-05:00

Today marks three years since David Frankenhauser went home to be with the Lord. It was a very sudden and a very unexpected death as his family had been spending the Christmas holiday preparing for his return from Korea and his retirement as a Colonel in the US Army.

I borrowed (stole from Facebook) this photo from his sweet wife Marian who is not in the picture.

Last night I stood in the ladies’ restroom at church watching tears streak down Mrs. Frankenhauser’s face as spoke of her husband of 28 years. She told me that the sorrow was a blessing because it meant there was love and she would never trade the love.

Not being able to say goodbye is one of the shocks of a sudden death. Inevitably guilt follows. Please pray for her children as it continues to be a struggle in some of their daily lives.

Christmas has deep association with his departure. My heart is always with my mom the week of Christmas as well because she gave birth after a 36 hour labor to her first born son two days after Christmas whom she lost suddenly too.

The irony of it all or just very ironic that David commented on a photo of him and Vinny that he couldn’t believe Vinny was gone and then he was taken home less than six months after Vinny’s passing shows the true brevity of life. We just have no idea. Time to treasure the people we have and always be mindful and prioritize a closer walk with our Creator.

Prayers, hugs and love to the Frankenhauser family.

Henry Umstead is a Singer

2012-01-01T22:47:00.001-05:00

He sings all the time. In the car/truck he sings at the top of his lungs – especially if Dave and I are having a conversation. If Henry and I are singing, he will stop and tell daddy to sing too. His favorite songs right now are:

Bob the Builder, Wonder Pets theme songs, The Itsy Bitsy Spider, ABC’s, Jesus Loves Me, Happy Birthday

Henry tells me he loves me all the time for a while now (spontaneously). If I say that I love him, he tells me, “Love you, too.” So cute. He’s really into dancing now. If a fast beat song comes on TV from a commercial or something, he will start dancing.

Henry immediately asks for French Toast when he wakes up.

Henry prays for lots of people and lots of animals. If someone is forgotten, he will remind.

His schedule is out of control. Last night staying up late just added to it.

Image in Christ

2012-01-01T10:31:00.003-05:00

I absolutely loved an excerpt played at church last night that was spoken by our deceased senior pastor. I wish it were online. If it comes online I am going to write it down word for word. Here is a summary:

Never ever let your self image be detached from who you are in Christ! (Amen). You are not Satan’s accusations, you are not who people say you are, you are not your past, you are not your failure, you are not the thoughts that come to you about yourself. You will reign with Jesus Christ right now on earth. DON’T BE SEPARATED FROM YOUR POSITION!!

(If only we would treat other people with this Royal Law of Love – for Jesus said it’s the greatest of the commandments along with Loving the Lord Your God).

My friend recently called me about someone in her church that left because she is clinically depressed. She and her husband are having marriage problems and there are people in the church that want it blamed completely on her and want her disciplined. Some have even written her letters. From the gist of the story this woman is suffering greatly.

You know what I say? I don’t think it’s her fault, but so what if it is. So what. What about telling people about what God says they are instead of kicking them when they're down? Even if they are a jerk.

My pastor once said recently that someone was going to tell him off. He stopped them and said please tell me what God thinks about me and then you can tell me what ever you think about me.
A stinking men. Amen. Please let that be my imperfect heart, oh Lord.

Happy New Year–Welcome 2012

2011-12-31T16:02:00.001-05:00

via

So grateful for all my family and friends and all the new friends God has added to my life this year. Especially thankful for Dave, Henry, baby and Maggie the Annoying (dog).

Going to church to ring in the New Year if we make it that late with a toddler!

Pinterest Post

2011-12-30T21:53:00.001-05:00

Here we go Pinterest, here we go. Pinterest is a lot of fun. There are fantastic DIY projects, outstanding recipes, gift ideas, gorgeous room redo's, photography, travel, health, exercise, family fun and much more. That’s why it’s fun and can be addicting. Say, if you love all things weddings like my grandmother, you could spend hours looking at dresses, table settings, photography, flowers and so on. Love it.

Here are some of my most recent Pinterest pins that may or may not interest you:

via. I think my aunt Annie once tried to communicate the health benefits of coconut oil and I wasn’t ready for it mentally. For some reason it keeps popping up everywhere lately and has really caught my attention.

via. I really like this look. I love cleanness of letting dishes be your decoration. The black lower cabinets with clean lines and white upper. So crisp. So inviting. Love.

via. This is delicious. I love several paned windows painted black and to use as a sliding door. Brilliant.

via. I really love the table top in the this photo. It would look good with any style. Okay, maybe not super formal, but you get what I mean.

via. Board & Batten love. I love the height of it and the narrow spacing. Gorgeous.

via. Have you noticed how much I love white cabinets? I do like mixing, too, and that might be a change I would do in this kitchen. But how can you go wrong with those stunning windows, dark floors, marble counters and that massive stove and farm sink? Please. Love.

via. I don’t think I could pull this style off in my own house even if I had the money but it sure does look luxurious I am sure Maggie would enjoy the Zebra rug as much as that dog. No wait, our bed would never look that nice because she would be enjoying the bed.

via. This looks like a place in my mind I would like to enjoy but if I had it, I would probably never go there. Beautiful though.

via. This reminds me of opening up the Country Living Magazine which is my all time favorite and something I look forward to the whole month before the next issue arrives.

15 Weeks Pregnant

2011-12-29T21:32:00.001-05:00

Confession One: Too much Chipotle

Confession Two: Too much caffeine. I seriously need to restrict myself. I do most days but why is it so comforting to drink (caffeine NOT alcohol!!) when pregnant? Which brings me to my next confession:

Confession Three: Too much Dr. Pepper. Pretty sick I know. But in those weeks of light headedness and that short spell of nausea it hit the spot.

Confession Four: I have a cold. The cold I called my husband a wimp for acting sick. The not breathing through the nose thing is really starting to get to me. All this extra oxygen needed has seemed to labor my breathing anyway and now I feel like I sound like I just ran up hill for six miles ALL the time. Yikes. So tonight desparate times have called for desperate measures. Yup. I have chopped a raw onion, made a concoction and have even resorted to putting onions in my nose for some minor relief. So sick. I know. Dave is refusing to believe the level I have stooped to.

Confession Five: I ate Chipotle tonight and I don’t even know why other than Dave offered to pick it up. I can barely taste a raw onion. What was the point?!?! Addiction?

Confession Six: I get my next ultrasound in a few weeks and I am getting excited/nervous. I think that’s what forcing me to rein in my bad habits. But then I tell my self I was born among a generation when mothers still smoked and maybe drank coffee (I am secretly praying) and we turned out alright. Right? Help me out here.

Confession Seven: I am lazy. There I said it. I don’t like being a wimp but I feel like one. At five I feel like curling up on my bed and sipping tea (well, probably something with more caffeine) and doing nothing. Oh where, oh where has my energy gone? Out the door. Please come back.

Text from Baby Center

Your growing baby now measures about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs in at about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an apple). She's busy moving amniotic fluid through her nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in her lungs begin to develop. Her legs are growing longer than her arms now, and she can move all of her joints and limbs. Although her eyelids are still fused shut, she can sense light. If you shine a flashlight at your tummy, for instance, she's likely to move away from the beam. There's not much for your baby to taste at this point, but she is forming taste buds. Finally, if you have an ultrasound this week, you may be able to find out whether your baby's a boy or a girl! (Don't be too disappointed if it remains a mystery, though. Nailing down your baby's sex depends on the clarity of the picture and on your baby's position. He or she may be modestly curled up or turned in such a way as to "hide the goods.")

Happy Birthday, GG

2011-12-29T17:31:00.001-05:00

Happy 87th birthday to my grandfather Galkowski.

He has been blessed with so many years and we are blessed to have him.

James 1:27

2011-12-29T16:58:00.001-05:00

God has really been impressing things on my heart. Too much to talk about. I have been doing a Beth Moore Bible study on the book of James. God has grown my heart even bigger for the orphans and widows. And for the poor of this world. Growing up in New England there is so much pride passed down in being independent, being self-sufficient, not having any vulnerability. I think this is especially true in the church. Last night’s message was a continuation of what God has been speaking to me. God does not give up on us and say, “What are you doing, you bunch of idiots”. And He could. I have inherited this New England impatience for lack of competence. I realize it’s my choice, my sin whatever you want to call. But it’s not from God. Conviction. Thank God, God loves us so deeply. Thank God He doesn’t treat us with the same lack of love and impatience we treat each other. Thank You, Lord, for your mercy for our ignorance thinking we (I) are so smart and so much better.

Grandma Babysitting Craziness

2011-12-28T22:28:00.000-05:00

We came home from church to find Me-maw and Henry pretend fighting with the tools she brought him (video below). Then Henry broke out into a Hallelujah song waving his chain saw. I had to get him to do it again so I could tape some of it (video above). This kid is a ticket let me tell you.

Eating Changes Since Sickness with my 2.5 Year Old

2011-12-28T10:06:00.001-05:00

Henry has had a lot of changes since his stomach flu or whatever it was. I know it was more than 48 hours of vomiting and I am wondering if sudden growth spurts ever bring these illnesses on. Just curious. Because we have seen A LOT of changes in Henry since he was sick and I think all of them are positive they can just be a little inconvenient. Before he got sick I was getting concerned with the amount of rice milk he was consuming. I mean it's always good to drink, right? But it just wasn't sitting well with me. I was also wondering how I was going to transition him away from sippy cups which were like a security blanket to him. Another issue was his pickiness with food (I am not sure that will go a way for a while). But, man alive, he wanted to eat the same thing every meal. Peas and hot dogs. I was comforted by the fact that my cousins who I babysat for years ate microwaved hot dogs 24/7.

So, changes. Lots. Henry associated his rice milk with sickness we think. He calls it dirty and wants us to wash it. We had to buy him several beverages before we landed on ice tea as something he would drink. At the risk of him getting dehydrated, we are going with it for now. A side note is I looked up consuming large amounts of rice milk. Not good. Arsenic is found in all foods, it's just rice holds a larger amount. Well, he lived through that, praise God.

He also will not drink from a sippy cup. He was only drinking from one of those disposable clear plastic fountain soda cups with a straw that Johnny & Stacey use for their ice tea. The cup finally collapsed and now he's drinking from coffee cups. Praise God. Dave went out and immediately purchased fancy straw sippy cups. I hadn't discussed that I wanted to get away from those, but Henry rejected them anyway.

Henry is eating a lot more! Every morning he wakes up and immediately wants breakfast. He usually eats french toast (I make it will almond milk, honey and cinnamon) and ham in the morning. He will eat up to four pieces. Then it seems like all he does is eat all day.

He's growing. He's grown over 1/2 inch in just a couple of weeks.

He's eating a bigger variety of food. He's actually eating what we eat for dinner which he would never do. I know many are of the school of thought to force eating what you serve. That's not always possible when you have a child with a will of steal and one who will vomit on demand.

Happy Birthday, Big Brother!

2011-12-27T10:33:00.001-05:00

We are all so blessed to have so many wonderful memories of Vinny. He was larger than life and the memories he left are so big they will fill our lifetime. It’s his fourth birthday in heaven. Gone suddenly a little less than 3.5 years ago. It’s so strange to grow older without him here. We were always talking about our ages – we were 17 months apart. Well, 1 year, 4 months and 27 days to be exact.

I was recently thinking about, though we were poor when we were really little, we were so blessed to grow up where we did. The tree forts, walks in the woods, and running through the fields. I wouldn’t trade anything if it meant a life without memories with my big brother. Though they were not all good at the time. Several fights. I don’t think we could go 10 seconds in a car when we were 10 and 11 without arguing. Zac and I often joke we could win the TV series survivor (I have never really seen it) after living with Vinny’s hair trigger temper in his high school years.

This photo was taken outside of Stacey’s first house right after she got married to Myriah & Victor’s dad.

Christmas Morning

2011-12-25T12:40:00.000-05:00

Night Before Christmas

2011-12-24T21:49:00.000-05:00

The Night Before Christmas read by Grammie Sue to Henry. My mom sent this book for Henry. She recorded her voice reading it to him.

Henry was riveted.

Christmas Eve with Me-Maw

2011-12-24T20:33:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T13:19:00.000-05:00

For some reason I couldn't get my camera to focus. Yesterday we received a delivery of an edible bouquet from my mom and Dan. I was right in the middle of making something to go in the crock pot and Henry grew very impatient with me because he wanted to start eating the fruit! Well, mostly the chocolate I think.

Last night I had nursery for our candle service. Then I went over to my friend Beth's house for a sushi party sans the rest of the fam. I had a total blast. I think sushi parties are my favorite now. So good!

Today we are being bums (Dave is sick). Eating and laying around. I pulled up lyrics to Christmas songs and sang a bunch to Henry which he loved.

Second Trimester of Pregnancy Two Begins

2011-12-22T21:49:00.001-05:00

It’s so funny how sometimes I completely forget I’m pregnant. Someone will ask me when I’m due and then I’m like, oh yeah, I’m pregnant. Of course that’s not all the time, I just get so engrossed in daily life. So here we are entering into the second trimester. I can hardly believe it. I have been blessed with my second uneventful pregnancy so far and am grateful and praying it stays that way.

I have this feeling we are having a girl but, of course, we would be thrilled with either one. I brought up one name to Dave so far and he completely vetoed it right away. Said it was an old lady’s name. I told him it goes with Henry then because he has an old man’s name. That’s our role with names. He doesn’t suggest, just vetoes. Which I guess isn’t out of the ordinary and is better than him being madly in love with some horrible name. The Ukrainian adoption story couple I am following has the same set up with the name situation. She suggests and he vetoes. Names do grow on Dave. I suggested Henry and he said no way. Then it really started to grow on him. We didn’t even have a name before I gave birth and an hour or so after he was born he was named Henry. We both think it’s the perfect name for him. He’s such a Henry.

Speaking of Henry. He’s getting very, very, very bossy/demanding. We spent the day with my aunt Stacey and he ordered her around. I know it’s terrible but I can’t help laughing. I am creating a monster. Well, he’s perfect but I am not doing much to stop his bossiness. Henry requested Stacey sing Jingle Bells about 5,000 times and then he sang it the rest of the day. He sings all the time and makes up his own songs too. Last night on the way home from church he sang a “no” song to the tune of twinkle, twinkle little star. Such a little character.

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-12-21T13:39:00.001-05:00

Henry and I made my second ever batch of Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies. It is a pretty simple recipe and great for those with casein allergies as well. The peanut butter flavor is not too strong and the perfect accent.

I am so thankful Henry is more like himself today after almost a week of sickness. Here he is helping make the cookies. He was the operator of the mixer.

Enjoying his masterpiece – Gluten free chocolate chip peanut butter cookies.

Recipe Yields 4 Dozen:

Preheat oven to 375

2 1/4 cups of Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Baking Flour Mix
1 Tsp Baking Soda
1/2 Tsp Sea Salt
2 Sticks of room temperature Butter
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup of sugar
2 tsp vanilla (make sure is gluten free)
2 eggs
1 package Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips or other chocolate chips not containing dairy
1/2 – 3/4 cup of peanut butter

Mix butter and sugars together in a mixer on medium speed until creamed

Add vanilla & eggs one at a time until mixed in.

Add in dry mixer slowly on low speed just until mixed in.

Add in peanut butter.

Add in chocolate chips.

Refrigerate batter for 10 minutes.

Form small mounds of cookie batter on cookie sheet (about 12)

Bake 9 – 11 minutes.

Emma’s Farm Birthday Party Part 4

2011-12-21T11:08:00.001-05:00

Interesting Geography Lesson

2011-12-20T15:32:00.001-05:00

I quite often hear people comparing Maine to places as far north as Finland and Alaska. Most of the population of Maine lives directly on the coast within 1.5 hours of Portland. Here is an example of the Latitude of Portland, Maine and other US and world cities that are further north. Just thought this was interesting.

43°39'N – Portland, ME

44°59'N - Minneapolis Minn

46°00'N - Butte, Mont.

52 22 N Amsterdam, Netherlands

52 30 N Berlin, Germany

44 50 N Bordeaux, France

51 32 N London, England

46 27 N Odessa, Ukraine

48 48 N Paris, France

Intense Ukraine Adoption Story

2011-12-19T11:04:00.001-05:00

I have been following this blog for a couple of years. Rachael with the same spelling is from Michigan and has four children – one adopted from Russian. She recently took a trip to Ukraine to help an organization choose orphaned children who are about to age out of the system to come to America for 6 weeks in the summer. As a result of this trip she and her family hosted a teenage boy. Something she didn’t expect when leaving for the trip. Once the boy stepped off the plane her heart melted. The option of adoption cannot be discussed with host children and it’s not even certain they are available for adoption (complicated system). But they knew they wanted him. Now they are on an intense journey in Ukraine – getting court dates for the adoption, going through the legal process and saying goodbye to Sergey’s siblings. Heart wrenching and a super miracle all at the same time.

Read for yourself here.

Pinterest Favorites

2011-12-18T23:01:00.001-05:00

On a lighter note (Henry seems to be more himself tonight – thanking God for answered prayers)…. here are some of my Pinterest favorites since my last Pinterest post.

Cool kitchen layout via.

Beautiful kitchen design via.

Now that is quite a tub via.

Wow. Nice foyer/hallway table. I think it’s a marble top and I love it and the whole thing via.

Cute shutter table via.

I would love to eat perogies.

What.a.couch. Via.

What to try these in art class. via.

Stomach Flu–Lingering Illness

2011-12-18T15:44:00.001-05:00

Little man still has some lingering sickness. I am afraid his throat is sore. I am hoping the vomiting that he did twice yesterday and once so far today are just because his stomach is sensitive due to such a severe case of the stomach flu and not because of something else like strep. I have been on my knees begging God to take this away from little Henry. It rips my heart out to see him sick. I am so grateful to God that he has perked up the last couple of days though still lethargic and not himself. I am also grateful for another major answer to prayer which is he pooped a big poop this morning. I was having fears of some type of blockage. He also has been able to keep some food and fluid down and we found something he is willing to drink. All major answers to prayer. I am taking him to the doctor tomorrow to make sure there isn’t something else going on like strep throat. Please pray he makes a full recovery and is able to rest the remainder of this day. He is taking a nap with his father right now.

A miracle from God is that Dave had taken off Friday and Monday because they were the only days left the rest of the year. I am so glad he has been home. He’s been so encouraging and helpful when I have been a nervous wreck. He has been doing mounds of vomit covered laundry, mopping up it up on the floors and has even forced me to leave the house a couple of times to get me out of here. Last night I went to Hamden again with my friend Beth. I had a good time but felt very guilty and missed my baby the whole time.

We have been a solid week with illness in this house starting out with Dave having some sort of virus last Sunday night. Don’t get me wrong. I am not complaining. I would take a week or two of sickness over so many things and am extremely grateful for the faithfulness of God. I just can’t seem to function normally when it’s going on – like not making dinner for a solid week. Poor Dave. He is such a good sport.

Chinese Restaurant–Funny Sign

2011-12-17T13:32:00.001-05:00

by Brad Mossman

Still Sick but Getting Better

2011-12-17T12:52:00.001-05:00

Poor, precious one Henry can hardly stand up he’s so weak from his severe stomach virus. I don’t think I have ever seen anyone throw up so much and for as long as this little one. Now he’s associating drinking fluids with throwing up so we are having a tough time getting them in him. We have tried popsicles, every kind of beverage, we even lied and said we had Uncle Johnny’s ice tea. Finally chicken broth has worked. I am so thanking God. Having no wet diaper for a long time is so scary. Today he is sleeping a lot.

A Little Over 13 Weeks Pregnant

2011-12-16T20:43:00.001-05:00

Equals 1/3 through this pregnancy! Wow! Unbelievable. Last week of first trimester!!!

www.Babycenter.com about the baby:

Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce.

I am not liking the analogy of the size. Kind of weirding me out.

My dear friend Jessica whom I love and miss with all my heart was texting with me from Maine tonight. She made me laugh when she told me to get some rest because I am making a human being. Maybe a kidney or liver tonight. That girl is funny and wonderful and such a great friend!

My Jessica!

Happy 55th Wedding Anniversary

2011-12-16T10:20:00.001-05:00

To my wonderful grandparents Nate & Charlotte who have been a rock in my life since before I can remember. So blessed by God to still have them.

Night 2 of the Stomach Flu

2011-12-16T10:11:00.001-05:00

Poor little munchkin had a reprieve from vomiting for a few hours but then was sick all night again. Thankfully he went back to sleep this morning with his daddy who has the day off and they are still sleeping. I am praying he feels much, much better today.

Oh What a Night

2011-12-15T07:48:00.001-05:00

We have been up all night. Poor thing wasn’t done throwing up. He started again at 4 am and we are praying he’s done now.

I was reading some George Muller’s Release the Power of Prayer when watching Henry through the night. I love this verse he brought up: 2 Chronicles 20:17 – Stand and see the salvation of the Lord.

Praise to God!

2011-12-15T02:16:00.001-05:00

I am not going to hold my breath, though I would like to because of the stench in the room, I think after what I believe were 10 solid hours of vomiting and I mean sometimes every 10 – 30 minutes, Henry is able to drink something and keep it down. We are continuing to trust God on that one and, no, I’m not being sarcastic. I do think the virus is moving down his digestive system and we might have some diarrhea. My prayers have been answered by God. He has stopped vomiting, drank something and had a bowel movement! Now maybe some sleep for both of us.

Natural Remedies

2011-12-14T22:09:00.001-05:00

The best natural or should I say supernatural remedy is prayer. I want to sincerely thank all of those who have approached the throne of grace for Henry and our family this time and every time you do! I believe in the power of prayer.

http://www.earthclinic.com/

This website is great for natural remedies to ailments (***DISCLAIMER***any new age propaganda I am definitely not into – just the natural remedies). My French, missionary friend Sarah recommended it.

I have battling being a nervous wreck while my poor child heaves and gags with nothing left to come out. This is when he wakes up from sleeping every 15 to 30 minutes. Wanting to trade places is an understatement. I am quite sure, at this point, the ER would exhaust him more and would be able to do nothing to cure what seems like a very nasty stomach virus.

David suggested looking on the internet. I remember my naturopath doctor recommending baking soda which we tried but was quickly vomited up.

We just, when taking a break from writing this little post, force fed him a tablespoon of raw onion juice and a tablespoon of peppermint tea. We will see how that remedy stays down.

***it didn’t stay down.*** Guess there’s no way to beat a stomach virus than to let it run its course or be healed.

2 Down

2011-12-14T19:16:00.001-05:00

We thought Dave might have had food poisoning late Sunday night and for 36 hours following. But Henry just starting vomiting when we got home after 4. At first I thought it might be because he drank too much rice milk too quickly but the poor fella has a serious stomach bug. His little body has been heaving and struggling to breathe when he goes into a vomiting spell. He just now finally fell asleep after 3 hours of it. I think we have pretty much covered 1/3 of the floors in our house and at least 1/3 of the bedding and towels. I gave up putting diapers back on him because they also have been saturated in throw up. I guess this is a bigger test for me because I am pretty much a nervous wreck when he gets sick. So pray for both of us. And especially that this bypasses my pregnant self.

Saltanje

2011-12-13T18:52:00.001-05:00

I saw Saltanat’s sister write this on her facebook, so I’m assuming it’s a cute endearing nickname. She deserves one.

Henry was sick when we drove to CT to meet Saltanat in person. He fell asleep quickly after I scrounged together some food for dinner that I had packed and we went swimming in the FREEZING hotel pool.

Here he is very excited to get into the pool!

But the cuteness woke up to meet our precious visitor.

And she brought him a very special gift which he kept using and showing us the pictures he was drawing.

Henry kept calling her “Salt”. It was so cute. “See it, Salt?” I think the meeting of Henry was very monumental for both Saltanat and me. Celebrating a life that is no longer on this earth and celebrating a new life that Vinny so much wanted to meet but never got to.

Baby’s Heartbeat Just Shy of 13 Weeks

2011-12-13T15:39:00.001-05:00

I got to hear the baby’s heartbeat this afternoon at my just shy of 13 week doctor’s appointment. I had the same reaction I did with Henry. I started laughing. My mid-wife I had in Maine told me that usually people either laugh or cry. I am a laugher.

My next ultrasound is scheduled for after my next doctor’s appointment which will be in 4 weeks. So I will be 18 weeks when I go for the ultrasound. I guess that’s a standard time to get the ultrasound and we get to find out the sex of the baby. Very exciting.

Have I told you that I absolutely love my doctor? I have never had a doctor as nice and wonderful as this one. For anything. I am so thankful for her. My friend Amy recommended her.

Last week I had some serious nausea which the doctor said is completely normal for it to come and go throughout the entire pregnancy.

My favorite part of the appointment is getting weighed and it happens first. Yes, total sarcasm. The nurse said that some women won’t even open their eyes and don’t want to be told what it is. I had to look. I thought for sure it was going to be terrible with Thanksgiving, Holiday cooking and my exercise routine not disappearing but certainly not 6 or 7 days a week which is my goal. So, this will be the only time I post this I’m sure. I was so happy to only have gained less than 2 pounds. Don’t worry, I am not a psycho-weight freak. I am definitely not one to talk about my weight or criticize others. I wasn’t worried about how much I gained with Henry. I gained too much! It’s just one of those parts of the doctor’s appointments that we all hate.

Yesterday when I took Henry into the ever-busy post office (tis the season), a wonderful woman offered to fill out my address for me on my envelope. So nice. Then a retired pediatrician was behind me in line and held Henry’s hand when I was at the counter. Then today the lady at the gate to pay for parking told me it would be $4 and when I started to hand her my money told me I was all set. It took a while for it to sink in. I have been so blessed by random strangers the last 48 hours. Thank You, Jesus.

Tuesday Talk

2011-12-13T08:47:00.001-05:00

I just started the Beth Moore James, Mercy Triumphs workbook. I have decided to continue in these workbooks/ studying even if I don’t see the video sessions because they really get me into the Word of God in a level I crave on a daily basis. Here is something that really spoke to me this morning. We are studying the background of James, the brother of Jesus, and Jesus’ relationship.

The power of the resurrection trumps the power of the past if we’re willing to let it.

When the call of Christ sears a hole through your self-protectiveness, you go wherever He leads whether or not you feel like you fit. How will we ever press onward through the hot winds from hell if we can’t even get past awkward?

Today is my second Dr’s appointment. I like the baby part of the appointments. I don’t the me part of it. If you get what I mean. I am so excited as I will probably get to hear the baby’s heartbeat. I got to see the heart during my first ultrasound. And excited as the day approaches when we get to find out the sex of the baby. It’s very hard for me to believe I have two children and will have two physically very soon. The second is almost like the first in that I can’t wrap my brain around it until it happens.

The teenagers in our church did a blitz in NYC this past weekend. They sang songs in Rockefeller Center, Times Square and the Staten Island Ferry Terminal and preached the Gospel. What a privileged life these kids have. I am so excited for Henry as he gets more and more involved in the youth program. To be surrounded by Christ-centered people and to have such a wonderful extended family. I hope everyone feels the same about their church. I especially love the others-focused frame of reference and having fun while serving others. So needed in this self-centered, self-focused society that we all tend to lean towards.

Hamden–Baltimore’s Best Lights

2011-12-11T14:23:00.001-05:00

Mommy (3 months pregnant with baby2), Henry, Daddy

Cousin Rye & Cousin Tim

Christmas Tree Excitement!

2011-12-10T15:51:00.000-05:00

Henry is SO excited about Christmas this year (and he knows nothing of presents so far). He is very excited that we put up a Christmas tree today thanks to Fresh McKenzie (Aunt Stacey). I wish I had the recorder rolling when we first brought it into the house. He just kept saying "wow!" "amazing!". It was so cute.

Quick & Easy Vegetable Green Curry–Gluten Free

2011-12-09T20:27:00.001-05:00

This is a once a week recipe because I always keep coconut milk, rice and the green curry paste on hand and the rest of it is whatever I have in the fridge or freezer.

Most Coconut Milk is gluten free if the manufacturer is not adding extra ingredients. Plus it has the great type of fat in it.

Thai Kitchen Green Curry Paste. Once you buy it and use it one, it will last for several dishes and can be stored in your refrigerator.

Recipe:

Sauté veggies of your choice in olive oil & sea salt & black pepper. Ideas are: Fresh/frozen green beans, fresh/frozen broccoli, fingerling potatoes, carrots, onions, green/red/yellow peppers. These are basically the veggies we use.
Once veggies are your desired softness, add more salt, I add more black pepper and some chili flakes
Add one can of coconut milk
Add on tablespoon of Thai Green Curry Paste

Meanwhile cook 2 cups of jasmine rice

Total time: 20 minutes.

Cost per serving: Very inexpensive!

Mr. Man making some food for us.

Cutest Boy Ever!

2011-12-08T21:44:00.003-05:00

I think I tell Henry every day that God must really love me so much to give me a boy as cute and wonderful as he is. I am in awe that he is my baby, our baby. So smart, so funny, so cute, so handsome, so mischievous, so loving.

Dave has been struggling with his new blood pressure medication and has been quite ill over the last week. Last night he stayed home with Henry while I went to church. When I got home both Dave and Henry were in their own beds, neither sleeping. I walked past Henry’s room a few times and noticed him shifting his pillows around. I told him to put the pillows back and go to sleep. He told me the pillow was dirty and to wash it (I assure you that I clean his bedding often). I asked him if he wanted me to change the pillow case and he told me yes. I did and he went right to sleep. Such a little clean freak.

It was sunny and cold today but the previous days were filled with lots of rain. Yesterday I decided to take Henry to Ikea which is one of his favorite places. When we were pulling into the parking lot he told me he was ready for Christmas. I asked him what he is ready for and he told me Christmas trees and Christmas lights. Such a precious little boy.

When we drive around looking at Christmas lights, he just stares, mesmerized by the display. If we ask him a question he might not speak or he might whisper a response. As we leave he will tell us he wants more Christmas and more lights.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Chocolate Pudding

2011-12-08T18:16:00.001-05:00

Recipe and photo from here.

First time through was okay. Henry likes it so I guess that’s all that matters. I used a mixture of canned coconut milk and rice milk and I used the corn starch as a thickener. I also used white sugar. I have to say the texture was unbelievable. Perfect pudding texture. There was something in there that left a grainy or floury taste. Could have been the two cups of rice milk as that stuff is absolutely disgusting (Henry loves it) but I was tasting it before I added it. So must have been corn starch or coconut milk. Next time I’ll use the arrowroot (I guess another type of thickener) and almond milk or fresh coconut milk.

Moving from Emptiness to Holiness… to Laughter

2011-12-08T08:32:00.001-05:00

I have probably said this a 1,000 times if I have said it once. I really love Watchman Nee’s Normal Christian Life. It’s so tempting, so easy, seems so necessary for us to complicate God’s plan in our lives by creating an Ishmael. That comes from Nee’s other book I read about Abraham, Isaac & Jacob. Man, I feel like I need to read these all once a month for it all to penetrate my thinking and my human spirit. What’s God’s answer for all of our problems? As Nee clearly through doctrine points out, there is only one answer. Jesus Christ. So simple. Fellowshipping, getting to know, losing our life, co-crucifixion, not our life but His. We just can’t let go of that old man. Just keep holding her/his head above water. To lose my life is gain. Do I truly believe? Just think how less complicated all of our lives would be if Abraham and Sarah believed God at His promise to give them a son. And trusted He was working something out in them before He fulfilled it. But like all of us, they helped God out in their flesh and created an Ishmael.

Larry Crabb’s Day 9 In God’s Love Letters to You a 40-Day Devotional Experience is great in reiterating this.

God says: I am aware that things go wrong in your life, that family and friends don’t always treat you well, that nothing goes exactly as you want it to. I grieve with you over the pain that life causes you. But our priorities differ. You ask what will work to make your life better, to correct the injustice you suffer, to see to it that more things go as they should in your life. I want to ask you what holiness would look like in your situation, whatever it is, holiness that might not right the wrongs that you suffer but that would let us enjoy each other. ….

It hurts Me to see My people chase after a lesser good than knowing Me….

I would type the whole thing out but am too lazy.

I know a family (more than one) under serious attack. It’s such a joy to see them fellowshipping with His holiness. What a testimony to all.

God Enjoys Breaking Things

2011-12-07T21:54:00.001-05:00

These are my thoughts based on the words from Pastor Matti’s message (sermon) in church tonight. Pastor Matti is a Finnish Pastor who has served as a missionary in the former Soviet Union when it was still such a nation, Central Asia, Sweden and now in Istanbul, Turkey. He is also an accomplished artist and had an art opening in New York City last night at which he and another Greater Grace missionary from Azerbaijan led an attorney to the Lord in front of one of his paintings. You can follow his life on his blog here.

Pastor Matti on the far right and his painting in the middle.

I love what he said tonight. God really likes to break things. Cain was angry with God because his offering wasn’t acceptable. God told him not to be angry to get right and do the right thing. Do I(we) have a program or plan that isn’t/ hasn’t been acceptable to God? Are we angry? Has God smashed it? God has a way of letting us build our little plans. Maybe 5 years. Maybe 10. Maybe 15. He may even let us almost finish and then He breaks it. Wow. That has been me. Even doing things for God. Or doing my own thing or the thing I really want and thinking God is going along with it because God is allowing it. When He breaks it, do I get mad? Maybe. Should I stay mad? No. I need to do what is right and acceptable. God is more interested in me understanding His holiness and me getting closer to Him than satisfying all my temporal desires. That came from this morning’s devotional – Larry Crabb’s Love Letters from God. I can get so focused on relieving what ever is going on than fellowshipping with His holiness. May I fellowship with His holiness so my life can be the living epistle that 100’s read before they ever (and if ever) they pick up the Word of God.

Princess Emma’s Farm Party Part 3

2011-12-05T20:49:00.001-05:00

Birthday party field trip: Exploring the farm

Vintage Art Deco Rustic Urban Upgrade Typewriter Desk

2011-12-05T12:29:00.002-05:00

Here we go….

Not sure if this is the redo the Harringtons had in mind when they so generously gave me this desk. Chippy rustic meets urban farmhouse.

First Gluten Free/ Milk Free Pumpkin Pie

2011-12-03T13:51:00.001-05:00

This was Dave’s birthday cake so far. I do plan on making some of Barefoot Contessa’s famous chocolate cupcakes.

The crust is gluten free from Wegman’s grocery store. The box consisted of a blend of Potato starch, rice flour, salt and honey, so many ingredients needed to be added. Next time I will make it from scratch though it yielded enough for two pies with top and bottom crusts. I found it very difficult to work with. Might be the lack of gluten to hold it together or maybe I just need time to get used to it.

The filling was:

1 can of pumpkin puree
1/2 cup brown sugar tightly packed
1/4 white sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp sea salt
1 cup of trader joe’s low fat canned coconut milk
uncooked pie crust

Beat eggs and vanilla in mixer, mixed dry together in small bowl. Add dry and pumpkin to eggs – mix well. Fold in coconut milk. Fill uncooked pie crust. Cook for 15 minutes on 450. Reduce heat to 350 and cook for approximately 55 minutes.

This pie was a big hit at our house. Butter has very low casein content so it’s the only dairy we really eat. You can make the crust with a non-dairy margarine. Most margarine had milk in it, so you have to select a vegan margarine. Dave really liked it!

Happy Birthday, David

2011-12-03T08:30:00.001-05:00

Or Davey Charlie or baby or Chuckie or many other silly names I call my wonderful husband.

I am so thankful for his support, friendship, devotion to our little family and love for God. I am thankful that we can have a lot of fun and lot of laughs during the daily grind we all call life. AND he has to be the most loving and attentive father I have ever met.