Off to clean the washable marker before it becomes permanent ; 0)
Friday, December 27, 2013
cute picture
Having a toddler is exhausting! Constantly on the move and he has NO ability to play with anything by himself. When left to his own own devices he ends up looking looking like this:
So we are taking our vitamins, finding fun things to do on pinterest, praying this phase ends quickly and finding the joy when we can.
Off to clean the washable marker before it becomes permanent ; 0)
Off to clean the washable marker before it becomes permanent ; 0)
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Merry Christmas!!
What a month this has been. Lots of things that have needed our attention, lots of sickies, and not a whole lot of sleep. Add a holiday and preparation for a kitchen kitchen remodel and I'm left with nothing.
My brain has been over run with so much lately and yet as I sit here looking into our sad but sparkly Christmas tree, I am struck by just how blessed we are.
Wish you and your family the Lord's richest blessings this Christmas Season.
My brain has been over run with so much lately and yet as I sit here looking into our sad but sparkly Christmas tree, I am struck by just how blessed we are.
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| Favorite place to sit...IN the tree |
Sunday, November 3, 2013
No Judgement
You know...it's easy to be judgmental when you're on the outside looking in. Take my opinion on pacifiers. My thought has always been, when they're old enough to walk they should use pacifiers only for bed time. I would have my own judgmental monologue as I passed an older child walking around a store with a binky in there mouth. Enter Mason. This kid can ONLY function at times with the pacifier. He is in such a sensory upheaval right now, that at times, especially in public, his only way to cope is the binky. We have a chew stick and he will tolerate it but the binky is his best friend.
It didn't start out that way. My two other kiddos lost the binky at about a year old. It went away when they had a cold and were unable to suck and breath at the same time they went away. This worked for them. I seriously question if Mason would choose breathing over sucking.
Sleep can be another judgmental topic.
Whether children should be allowed in their parents bed.
Whether you should stay with them till they fall asleep.
Noise/no noise
We have been through it all with this kiddo. Our latest adventure with sleeping is unlatching Dylan's bunk beds to make one giant bed for both Mason &Dylan to sleep in. Dylan has been begging us to do this. So today we made it happen. We are worried it will disturb Dylan's sleep because Mason has been up no less then 12 times a night in the last week, but it will go along way in thickening their bond. Dylan wants so bad for Mason to like him. Mason is working on so much of his own stuff that he really can't be bothered. So we are praying for some glimmer of sleep hope. So pray with us won't you, for sleep, bonds, and no judgment.
It didn't start out that way. My two other kiddos lost the binky at about a year old. It went away when they had a cold and were unable to suck and breath at the same time they went away. This worked for them. I seriously question if Mason would choose breathing over sucking.
Sleep can be another judgmental topic.
Whether children should be allowed in their parents bed.
Whether you should stay with them till they fall asleep.
Noise/no noise
We have been through it all with this kiddo. Our latest adventure with sleeping is unlatching Dylan's bunk beds to make one giant bed for both Mason &Dylan to sleep in. Dylan has been begging us to do this. So today we made it happen. We are worried it will disturb Dylan's sleep because Mason has been up no less then 12 times a night in the last week, but it will go along way in thickening their bond. Dylan wants so bad for Mason to like him. Mason is working on so much of his own stuff that he really can't be bothered. So we are praying for some glimmer of
Monday, October 21, 2013
D.O.N.E
Today has been one of those days. The type they talk about in Alexander's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad day book. Just stinky.
I woke up to find my wedding band is missing. It must have slipped off somewhere or I absent mind idly took it off but it isn't anywhere I've looked. And that makes me sad.
The day went on as any other day, sick kiddo who stayed home, a toddler who woke up screaming and felt compelled to keep that mood the rest of the afternoon.
So why I thought going out to dinner to support Dylan's school was a good idea was beyond me. But I shlepped 3 boys to a loud restaurant where upon being seated Mason full force head butted me. Steve appeared at that point which allowed me a quick get away to the bathroom where I proceeded to cry and yell at God about being D.O.N.E.
My yell quickly changed to a prayer and my tears stopped and I left the bathroom. Although had there been a window I could have crawled out of, I might have considered it today.
You ever have one of those days? The type of day that seems just awful to you. So here I sit, in quiet for now. Not feeling guilty that the dishes aren't done or that the table didn't get wiped off...nope I'm enjoying my soft blanket and maybe some Oreo's in my near future. Tonight I rest because tomorrow I will do it all again.
Maybe tomorrow I should start the day with Oreo's and my Bible ;0)
I woke up to find my wedding band is missing. It must have slipped off somewhere or I absent mind idly took it off but it isn't anywhere I've looked. And that makes me sad.
The day went on as any other day, sick kiddo who stayed home, a toddler who woke up screaming and felt compelled to keep that mood the rest of the afternoon.
So why I thought going out to dinner to support Dylan's school was a good idea was beyond me. But I shlepped 3 boys to a loud restaurant where upon being seated Mason full force head butted me. Steve appeared at that point which allowed me a quick get away to the bathroom where I proceeded to cry and yell at God about being D.O.N.E.
My yell quickly changed to a prayer and my tears stopped and I left the bathroom. Although had there been a window I could have crawled out of, I might have considered it today.
You ever have one of those days? The type of day that seems just awful to you. So here I sit, in quiet for now. Not feeling guilty that the dishes aren't done or that the table didn't get wiped off...nope I'm enjoying my soft blanket and maybe some Oreo's in my near future. Tonight I rest because tomorrow I will do it all again.
Maybe tomorrow I should start the day with Oreo's and my Bible ;0)
Monday, September 30, 2013
Turning 2
Today at 7:57am our Mason turned 2!!
He has no idea what this day means. He enjoyed the breakfast muffins and the evening dinner with cupcakes and ice cream. He loved his gifts and playing with his brothers.
For us it has been a day of remembering. I thought of his birth mom today, like I did last birthday. So happy she chose life.
Our little monkey keeps us young, active, and praying for wisdom. As any true 3rd child should do. He is a gift, and I can't say enough about how blessed we are.
Thank you Jesus for this family! It's truly your design.
He has no idea what this day means. He enjoyed the breakfast muffins and the evening dinner with cupcakes and ice cream. He loved his gifts and playing with his brothers.
For us it has been a day of remembering. I thought of his birth mom today, like I did last birthday. So happy she chose life.
Our little monkey keeps us young, active, and praying for wisdom. As any true 3rd child should do. He is a gift, and I can't say enough about how blessed we are.
Thank you Jesus for this family! It's truly your design.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Sawing Wood
I'm sitting on the comfy couch in a not so comfy position listening to a snoring, heavy toddler who has found comfort in my lap tonight.
We are in another funky sleep "thing". He has found his way into our bed every night this week and some of last.
What has always amazed me about motherhood is how much power I have in the comfort of my children. Mason goes from a screaming crib climbers to a snoring snuggle bear in the matter of minutes in my arms. Dylan can get mad like no ones business, but I give him a hug and all the walls come down. When Ty is feeling overwhelmed and is struggling so, he will lean on me, and as I put my arms around him I feel him let go and the world is better for that moment.
What a blessing, what a feeling. It's moments like these that make the other ones not so bad. And trust me...those icky moments are pretty frequent with a growing almost 2year old. But as he lays here sawing wood, I see the perfect precious gift that God has given us and so many hopes, prayers, and wishes run through my mind.
Those hopes, wishes, and prayers have been listed in many other posts. So while I sit here getting a back cramp, I will continue to thank Jesus for all of this. It is so much more then
I ever deserved and gives me so much more pleasure then I ever know was possible.
We are in another funky sleep "thing". He has found his way into our bed every night this week and some of last.
What has always amazed me about motherhood is how much power I have in the comfort of my children. Mason goes from a screaming crib climbers to a snoring snuggle bear in the matter of minutes in my arms. Dylan can get mad like no ones business, but I give him a hug and all the walls come down. When Ty is feeling overwhelmed and is struggling so, he will lean on me, and as I put my arms around him I feel him let go and the world is better for that moment.
What a blessing, what a feeling. It's moments like these that make the other ones not so bad. And trust me...those icky moments are pretty frequent with a growing almost 2year old. But as he lays here sawing wood, I see the perfect precious gift that God has given us and so many hopes, prayers, and wishes run through my mind.
Those hopes, wishes, and prayers have been listed in many other posts. So while I sit here getting a back cramp, I will continue to thank Jesus for all of this. It is so much more then
I ever deserved and gives me so much more pleasure then I ever know was possible.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Seasons
I love, love, love the cooler weather. It reminds me that slower, cozier days are ahead. We have been quite busy this September and not all of it is fun.
But now is the time when we find our groove, our flow, and some peace.
My oldest is struggling this year to find his groove. He started middle school with all the fun chaos of changing classes, having different classes on different days, and a true locker. He loves most of what he's doing he just can't find a way of organization that works for him. So we pray, email school, and talk with his doctor.
My heart aches for him. He wants to do well. He wants to remember. He wants to be just like everyone else. And as his Momma, I wanna make it all right. I want to fix what he doesn't like, but this is his journey. And although we will go through it together it is his to
experience
learn from
And ultimately change or love.
He is uniquely and wonderfully made. He is the comic relief in our family. He is our famous chocolate milk maker. He is a fantastic big brother and a very loving son.
It is this momma's prayer that he will feel his family's love, be held by his Heavenly Father, and will find his special place in this new season.
But now is the time when we find our groove, our flow, and some peace.
My oldest is struggling this year to find his groove. He started middle school with all the fun chaos of changing classes, having different classes on different days, and a true locker. He loves most of what he's doing he just can't find a way of organization that works for him. So we pray, email school, and talk with his doctor.
My heart aches for him. He wants to do well. He wants to remember. He wants to be just like everyone else. And as his Momma, I wanna make it all right. I want to fix what he doesn't like, but this is his journey. And although we will go through it together it is his to
experience
learn from
And ultimately change or love.
He is uniquely and wonderfully made. He is the comic relief in our family. He is our famous chocolate milk maker. He is a fantastic big brother and a very loving son.
It is this momma's prayer that he will feel his family's love, be held by his Heavenly Father, and will find his special place in this new season.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Processed food...yum!
I have always been a processed food girl.
American cheese...yes please
Twinkies...absolutely
Boxed helper meals...my favorite!
Then I had kiddos.
And I still didn't think about it. Sure I "tried" to eat my veggies, but they just don't taste as good as a snickers bar.
One kiddo was diagnosed with a tic disorder. We went the western medicine route and saw icky results. So as a last ditch effort I consulted a naturopath. We tried many vitamins/supplements and tinctures but nothing really worked. She wanted us to go dairy, gluten, hydrogenated oils, casein, and dye free. That was a huge shock to this processed food loving family. So needless to say that didn't work either. But we decided to try dye free as it showed a high correlation in studies to tic disorders and impulse control issues.
Anyway we found that dyes played a HUGE part in our oldest son's behavior and tics. Another huge shock was trying to stay dye free. Dye is in everything, EVERYTHING. So again this processed food loving Mamma had to drop the Kraft mac &cheese, M&M's, and marshmallows. But you know what...it has been totally worth it.
Since we stared this process 6 years ago, we have come to realize Dylan is allergic too. He shows a reaction to some sort of preservative or dye that gives him the nervous habit of scratching his nose...to the point of ripping skin off. Then we adopted a child who needs the best food intake to help nurture brain connections to hopefully over come some brain damage due to FAS.
Whew... big learning curve.
What I noticed was when I'm away from home, and I now eat overly processed and dye filled foods I feel icky...go figure. Still haven't made friends with the veggies, but two of my three kiddos have.
Having a belief, whether it be religious, dietary (like I mentioned above), or family isn't always easy in this crazy world. People have a TON of opinions and they aren't afraid to share them. But like anything we do we prayed about it and educated the best we could and surrounded ourselves with people who support us even if they don't quite understand.
I don't tend to buy into the organic only category. I think there is a whisper of truth to both sides. What I do do is really watch what is labeled on the crackers or boxed snacks I buy, and when I can, make stuff myself. No I'm not gonna grind my own flour, but I make muffins, granola bars, and other easy stuff.
So if you're on this journey(or something similar:-). I'm praying for you...IT ain't easy but our kiddos are worth it!
American cheese...yes please
Twinkies...absolutely
Boxed helper meals...my favorite!
Then I had kiddos.
And I still didn't think about it. Sure I "tried" to eat my veggies, but they just don't taste as good as a snickers bar.
One kiddo was diagnosed with a tic disorder. We went the western medicine route and saw icky results. So as a last ditch effort I consulted a naturopath. We tried many vitamins/supplements and tinctures but nothing really worked. She wanted us to go dairy, gluten, hydrogenated oils, casein, and dye free. That was a huge shock to this processed food loving family. So needless to say that didn't work either. But we decided to try dye free as it showed a high correlation in studies to tic disorders and impulse control issues.
Anyway we found that dyes played a HUGE part in our oldest son's behavior and tics. Another huge shock was trying to stay dye free. Dye is in everything, EVERYTHING. So again this processed food loving Mamma had to drop the Kraft mac &cheese, M&M's, and marshmallows. But you know what...it has been totally worth it.
Since we stared this process 6 years ago, we have come to realize Dylan is allergic too. He shows a reaction to some sort of preservative or dye that gives him the nervous habit of scratching his nose...to the point of ripping skin off. Then we adopted a child who needs the best food intake to help nurture brain connections to hopefully over come some brain damage due to FAS.
Whew... big learning curve.
What I noticed was when I'm away from home, and I now eat overly processed and dye filled foods I feel icky...go figure. Still haven't made friends with the veggies, but two of my three kiddos have.
Having a belief, whether it be religious, dietary (like I mentioned above), or family isn't always easy in this crazy world. People have a TON of opinions and they aren't afraid to share them. But like anything we do we prayed about it and educated the best we could and surrounded ourselves with people who support us even if they don't quite understand.
I don't tend to buy into the organic only category. I think there is a whisper of truth to both sides. What I do do is really watch what is labeled on the crackers or boxed snacks I buy, and when I can, make stuff myself. No I'm not gonna grind my own flour, but I make muffins, granola bars, and other easy stuff.
So if you're on this journey(or something similar:-). I'm praying for you...IT ain't easy but our kiddos are worth it!
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Offically a Family -1 year
We have been enjoying summer so much that there hasn't been enough time to post. We have celebrated our oldest's birthday, began a new school, had a very long baseball season, started new job positions for both of us old enough for jobs, and had mostly fun in the sun on our beach vacation.
This week we celebrate my dad's 1 year being Cancer free! And as amazing as that is, it reminds me that in a couple of days we will celebrate Mason's adoption day!
As this is our 1st adoption day, we haven't really decided how to celebrate. We've had a gotcha day already but this is the day it became official. The day the judge said Mason was in our family FOREVER! The day we became the family that we are!
How do you celebrate that?
I'm thinking a special breakfast cake. Hey, any excuse for cake in the morning, right?! And lots of hugs for all. Because above all else this is the day that weaved brothers together and reminded us that God loves to give you the desires of your heart. Yeah, cake for breakfast sounds fitting 😉
This week we celebrate my dad's 1 year being Cancer free! And as amazing as that is, it reminds me that in a couple of days we will celebrate Mason's adoption day!
As this is our 1st adoption day, we haven't really decided how to celebrate. We've had a gotcha day already but this is the day it became official. The day the judge said Mason was in our family FOREVER! The day we became the family that we are!
How do you celebrate that?
I'm thinking a special breakfast cake. Hey, any excuse for cake in the morning, right?! And lots of hugs for all. Because above all else this is the day that weaved brothers together and reminded us that God loves to give you the desires of your heart. Yeah, cake for breakfast sounds fitting 😉
Friday, July 19, 2013
Vacation
As we prepare for our annual family beach trip, I begin to remember what last year was like. Our little man didn't have our last name yet, he wasn't walking yet, and his delays were ever present.
It's amazing the different a year makes.
He is officially Mason,
he is walking, running, hopping, climbing letters
And he is closing the gap big time from where he should be to where he is.
So enjoy your week
Bring on the beach
It's amazing the different a year makes.
He is officially Mason,
he is walking, running, hopping, climbing letters
And he is closing the gap big time from where he should be to where he is.
So enjoy your week
Bring on the beach
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
The good, the bad, and the messy!!
This weekend my hubby and two older boys went on a 4 day road trip to South Carolina to visit Grandpa. It was a bitter sweet trip as my father-in-law is suffering with ALS and is deteriorating quickly. They had a wonderful trip with lots of laughs and memories.
That left Mason and I here.
home alone.
for 4 whole days.
by ourselves.
I missed my boys something awful. And playing cruise director by myself to an almost two year old is exhausting and patience draining. Let's just say there were many times this weekend that this mommy should have had a time out. I'm not proud nor was it pretty....just keeping it real.
I think sometimes people view people who adopt as having some sort of parenting super power. Just doing my part to dispel the myth. :o) I'm a sinner like everyone else.
Anyway, now that I've aired my dirt laundry, lets get to the messy. I mean literally messy. Today the boys and I played. Like things you do over a whole summer we did in one day.
Today we:
and created time capsules complete with map to find them in two years. Nah, that map won't get lost in my well organized house. LOL
This was the best we could do for time capsules. Old nip bottles that grampy found in the parking lot and took home to clean out because he thought the color was cool. That's our Grampy!
So although there was some bad, there was lots of good and tons of messy. And I take comfort in the forgiveness of my heavenly Father whose not finished with me yet. And if my toddler throws some great temper tantrums in your presence, I have no idea where he learned them from...please don't judge. ;op
That left Mason and I here.
home alone.
for 4 whole days.
by ourselves.
I missed my boys something awful. And playing cruise director by myself to an almost two year old is exhausting and patience draining. Let's just say there were many times this weekend that this mommy should have had a time out. I'm not proud nor was it pretty....just keeping it real.
I think sometimes people view people who adopt as having some sort of parenting super power. Just doing my part to dispel the myth. :o) I'm a sinner like everyone else.
Anyway, now that I've aired my dirt laundry, lets get to the messy. I mean literally messy. Today the boys and I played. Like things you do over a whole summer we did in one day.
Today we:
Made breadsticks from scratch
Introduced the kiddos to the art of mud pie making. shhh...don't tell their aunt
and created time capsules complete with map to find them in two years. Nah, that map won't get lost in my well organized house. LOL
So although there was some bad, there was lots of good and tons of messy. And I take comfort in the forgiveness of my heavenly Father whose not finished with me yet. And if my toddler throws some great temper tantrums in your presence, I have no idea where he learned them from...please don't judge. ;op
Friday, June 28, 2013
success
We have found a blessing in the form of vibration.
Mason is going to sleep in less then 30 minutes now a days!!! This is way down from his typical 1.5 hours. We have been using a crib vibrating egg thing that's suppose to go under the mattress to gently vibrate the mattress but our little guy needed more. So we put it under his pillow and it has worked so great!!
I can't tell you what a relief it is to watch him gently fall asleep. He still needs some gentle tapping from us but not the full body bouncing he's required in the past. I guess I'll have to get my workout somewhere else now 😉
As a Momma I feel success when I find just what my babies need. I imagine (in some small way) this is what God feels like when we listen to his plan for our life. You know all those times Mason couldn't fall asleep I would pray so hard for his peace, our peace, his future, our ability to parent him the way he needs, and ( not gonna lie) sleep. Like I've said before, I can see God's answered prayers in our life. Not always in the way I thought they'd be answered but in His perfect way. This again was his perfect way.
So maybe you'll see lesswhining sleep posts. We can move on to bigger and better things...like how much hair this kid has or how he is growing so big, one area at a time. Just for the record: Mason can climb stairs one foot at a time, climb everything in sight, snap, write (when he's not eating the crayon), copy sounds, and do also anything his brothers do that looks like fun. He has such a spunky personality. Like when he eats something he really likes he wiggles. He has a happy walk and is always ready for a big 'old bear hug!! He can be just the sweetest thing.
That face says it all!
Mason is going to sleep in less then 30 minutes now a days!!! This is way down from his typical 1.5 hours. We have been using a crib vibrating egg thing that's suppose to go under the mattress to gently vibrate the mattress but our little guy needed more. So we put it under his pillow and it has worked so great!!
I can't tell you what a relief it is to watch him gently fall asleep. He still needs some gentle tapping from us but not the full body bouncing he's required in the past. I guess I'll have to get my workout somewhere else now 😉
As a Momma I feel success when I find just what my babies need. I imagine (in some small way) this is what God feels like when we listen to his plan for our life. You know all those times Mason couldn't fall asleep I would pray so hard for his peace, our peace, his future, our ability to parent him the way he needs, and ( not gonna lie) sleep. Like I've said before, I can see God's answered prayers in our life. Not always in the way I thought they'd be answered but in His perfect way. This again was his perfect way.
So maybe you'll see less
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Much to do about nutin'
One of our greatest joys in Florida was SLEEP. It was truly a blessing to have our little man sleep. Only one night he came in to our bed (which was super tiny anyways). What helped our precious non-sleeper get his beauty rest you ask?
Well, we are not quite sure. It could have been:
I'm not so much bothered by his nightly visits in our bed. He is getting much better about not sleeping directly on my head. I'm having trouble relinquish my precious down time before bed. Oh how I miss starting a baking project I knew I would see through to brownies. Or starting a magazine or a mountain of paperwork that would finally get finished only to hurrily put it down to comfort a beside himself little boy.
I'm gonna go eat some Oreos whiles I still can...
Well, we are not quite sure. It could have been:
- we w.o.r.e the kid o.u.t
- he fell asleep next to us. You see we sat next to him while he slept on a full size bed
- his oldest brother eventually joined him in that bed to sleep.
- It was the Mickey magic 😏
I'm not so much bothered by his nightly visits in our bed. He is getting much better about not sleeping directly on my head. I'm having trouble relinquish my precious down time before bed. Oh how I miss starting a baking project I knew I would see through to brownies. Or starting a magazine or a mountain of paperwork that would finally get finished only to hurrily put it down to comfort a beside himself little boy.
I'm gonna go eat some Oreos whiles I still can...
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Florida Vaca (Part 1)
I know I'm not the only one but...I love vacations. To get away from the daily grind and have nothing but fun, ahhhh so good!!
We spent part of last week in Florida, and what is a visit to Florida without a little M-i-c-k-e-y M-o-u-s-e?!?
But lets back up. Taking a 20 month old on a plane is poltergeist scary!! But he did pretty well. Even slept a little on the flight there.
Don't let these pictures fool you...many games of "pass the baby" were played but I didn't need to give anyone earplugs or buy them a drink. So that's a pass in my book :o)
We played around Downtown Disney for awhile. Then on to Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios the next day for some Star Wars Weekend.
We spent part of last week in Florida, and what is a visit to Florida without a little M-i-c-k-e-y M-o-u-s-e?!?
Don't let these pictures fool you...many games of "pass the baby" were played but I didn't need to give anyone earplugs or buy them a drink. So that's a pass in my book :o)
We played around Downtown Disney for awhile. Then on to Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios the next day for some Star Wars Weekend.
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| LOVE |
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| Ty showing a face only a mother can love |
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| Disney does Apples right!! |
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Adventures
It's amazing to me just how many adventures life holds. Many you wouldn't sign up for voluntarily, but once you go through them you're better for having done it.
Thirteen years ago I started on this adventure with Steve. I know back on that day, when we said "I DO", we did not imagined or could have even dreamed of the adventures we would have.
Some have been SO magical that we could see God's hand so clearly in it.
Others have been dark & scary, and we wonder how we will get through.
But through it all our commitment to each other has become stronger and through that our love has grown.
Life's adventures:
Thirteen years ago I started on this adventure with Steve. I know back on that day, when we said "I DO", we did not imagined or could have even dreamed of the adventures we would have.
Some have been SO magical that we could see God's hand so clearly in it.
Others have been dark & scary, and we wonder how we will get through.
But through it all our commitment to each other has become stronger and through that our love has grown.
Life's adventures:
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Unimaginable
Today mason fell asleep holding my fingers.
The significance of this is huge.
Our Mason, who is presumed to have fetal alcohol syndrome, found comfort from my hand. Not just comfort but enough comfort to fall asleep without tears.
FAS babies don't usually attach well, is what I've heard. FAS babies don't settle well when being hugged or snuggled. Well, I'm here to tell you our baby does, and it's so wonderful. We prepared ourselves when we brought him home that he might not like our touch, he might not want a whole lot to do with us. His poor little brain has damage in places we can't see and it's a puzzle to see what will overstimulate him or cause him discomfort.
But today my momma's heart swelled at this small, little step. He's attached!! And although we can't guarantee it will be forever, we are living in the moment. This moment...filled with giggles we weren't sure we'd hear, and snuggles and superior brother love.
Happy Mother's Day!!! My best gifts fill my home with unimaginable joy, mess, laughter, tears, and stinky socks.
The significance of this is huge.
Our Mason, who is presumed to have fetal alcohol syndrome, found comfort from my hand. Not just comfort but enough comfort to fall asleep without tears.
FAS babies don't usually attach well, is what I've heard. FAS babies don't settle well when being hugged or snuggled. Well, I'm here to tell you our baby does, and it's so wonderful. We prepared ourselves when we brought him home that he might not like our touch, he might not want a whole lot to do with us. His poor little brain has damage in places we can't see and it's a puzzle to see what will overstimulate him or cause him discomfort.
But today my momma's heart swelled at this small, little step. He's attached!! And although we can't guarantee it will be forever, we are living in the moment. This moment...filled with giggles we weren't sure we'd hear, and snuggles and superior brother love.
Happy Mother's Day!!! My best gifts fill my home with unimaginable joy, mess, laughter, tears, and stinky socks.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Trust the Detour
I was reading an article while waiting for Mason to go to sleep tonight about what this author learned by being a mom. There was one that struck me "trust the detours". In her lesson her son had been diagnosed with Diabetes and they had all learned how unhealthy they were eating, and some other family illnesses. It got me to thinking about how many detours we've followed that had turned into blessings.
I think too often we (meaning my family) have decided a plan and set out on that plan. Seldom asking God first what his thought was. Steve and I had our life planned out. We had two children and we thought that was enough. So much so that we made that plan permanent. We had plans for the future and those were the plans we were going by. Had we continued on our planned life we would have missed out on some INCREDIBLE joy!
Thankfully God threw in a detour. We didn't notice this detour quickly, it took years. I'd love to find you the post where I talked about how it took me two years of asking my hubby weekly "so have you thought any more about adoption", but I'm too tired to search. So the short version is I asked for two years and one night right before bed I asked and he said "actually I have. I saw a mom walking into the pool with a baby and it hit me that I could do that again....I actually want to do that again." That's all it took, God worked miracles on his heart. And listening to this detour brought us on a great adventure. God showed us we were going in the right direction many times.
One of our first confirmations: I received an unexpected and very generous bonus at work. This bonus was the EXACT amount needed to start our adoption paperwork. Things flowed, people came out of the woodwork to help us and cheer us on. And God worked with my impatience. Within 8 months of starting our adoption journey, Mason was in our arms, home, and hearts!
We continue to have detours that are blessings. Take my most recentwining post about sleep. I have been praying for peace, to find a time to think, pray, write in my journal, write a grocery list, etc. My prayer has been answered in the most peculiar way. Mason needs us right now to sit by his crib while he falls asleep, and when napping usually the whole half hour he sleeps we need to stay in case he wakes just for a brief second to make sure we are there before settling again and falling back asleep. Guess what I now have time for :o) Not what I expected (nor really wanted) but His detour is an answered prayer.
These are just two quick examples of detours but I'm sure if I sat long enough to think about it I could come up with a dozen more...maybe that's what I'll do during Mason's morning nap tomorrow. :o)
For now I will continue to praise God for all he has given us, the detours, windy roads, and all!
I think too often we (meaning my family) have decided a plan and set out on that plan. Seldom asking God first what his thought was. Steve and I had our life planned out. We had two children and we thought that was enough. So much so that we made that plan permanent. We had plans for the future and those were the plans we were going by. Had we continued on our planned life we would have missed out on some INCREDIBLE joy!
Thankfully God threw in a detour. We didn't notice this detour quickly, it took years. I'd love to find you the post where I talked about how it took me two years of asking my hubby weekly "so have you thought any more about adoption", but I'm too tired to search. So the short version is I asked for two years and one night right before bed I asked and he said "actually I have. I saw a mom walking into the pool with a baby and it hit me that I could do that again....I actually want to do that again." That's all it took, God worked miracles on his heart. And listening to this detour brought us on a great adventure. God showed us we were going in the right direction many times.
One of our first confirmations: I received an unexpected and very generous bonus at work. This bonus was the EXACT amount needed to start our adoption paperwork. Things flowed, people came out of the woodwork to help us and cheer us on. And God worked with my impatience. Within 8 months of starting our adoption journey, Mason was in our arms, home, and hearts!
We continue to have detours that are blessings. Take my most recent
These are just two quick examples of detours but I'm sure if I sat long enough to think about it I could come up with a dozen more...maybe that's what I'll do during Mason's morning nap tomorrow. :o)
For now I will continue to praise God for all he has given us, the detours, windy roads, and all!
Friday, May 3, 2013
Our Dylan
This great gift had a birthday this month, and you know he'll say being 7 is great.
It means:
God has some amazing things planned for him. I can't wait...well I can because he's perfect snuggling size right now. But this kid is ready to defend God at every turn and reminds us that all we have to do is pray!!!
We're pretty blessed!!
It means:
- playing baseball instead of t-ball
- going to a soild belt in karate instead of a stripe
- feeling taller...I kid you not!
God has some amazing things planned for him. I can't wait...well I can because he's perfect snuggling size right now. But this kid is ready to defend God at every turn and reminds us that all we have to do is pray!!!
We're pretty blessed!!
 |
| look at those muscles :o) |
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Sleep
You know this is going to be a trend for us...so I thought I'd share with you.
With our other two children sleep was routine, planned, and consistent.
Not with Mason...he doesn't want to be part of that mold.
In the last week he has become fearful of his crib. Like starts to cry when we enter his room. After much trial and error we have found a happy medium with sitting next to his crib till he falls asleep. Not ideal but I'm getting more blog reading time. Plus it means less time in our bed, win, win!
With our other two children sleep was routine, planned, and consistent.
Not with Mason...he doesn't want to be part of that mold.
- He is our first child to put EVERYTHING in his mouth...seriously he has licked the car.
- He is our first child to climb on everything, we will see him swinging from the ceiling fan soon.
- He is our first child to not think food is everything, sometimes he just can't be bothered.
- He is our first child to struggle so highly with sleep
In the last week he has become fearful of his crib. Like starts to cry when we enter his room. After much trial and error we have found a happy medium with sitting next to his crib till he falls asleep. Not ideal but I'm getting more blog reading time. Plus it means less time in our bed, win, win!
How ever sleep comes we are super sensitive to make sure he is safe and LOVED!
He's worth losing sleep over, wouldn't you say?!?
Monday, April 1, 2013
toddler mommy
As a Momma to a "special needs" child I am so very thankful for all the knowledge, dedication, and experience that the doctors, aids, therapists, and evaluators have. I am also so thankful for the special services he receives.
But there is a part of me...I hope a very small part, that longs for him to be like a normal kid his age. This is the progression of acceptance for this Momma. The difference between us a other parents with children with needs is that we knew going into this particular parenting journey that there would be needs far beyond what our care alone would support. There is that glimmering wish that there won't be as much need as they think, or that there isn't as much damage as they think.
And our baby boy is functioning so very well. He looks and acts very much like and almost 1 1/2 year old would. But those tests and evaluations and doctors say he's delayed in almost every area. And they are right, we see the frustration, the lack of words, and the unresponsiveness.
We pray for our little man and know that he is so very worth it. His future is in the hands of the Almighty and for this we are thankful!
But there is a part of me...I hope a very small part, that longs for him to be like a normal kid his age. This is the progression of acceptance for this Momma. The difference between us a other parents with children with needs is that we knew going into this particular parenting journey that there would be needs far beyond what our care alone would support. There is that glimmering wish that there won't be as much need as they think, or that there isn't as much damage as they think.
And our baby boy is functioning so very well. He looks and acts very much like and almost 1 1/2 year old would. But those tests and evaluations and doctors say he's delayed in almost every area. And they are right, we see the frustration, the lack of words, and the unresponsiveness.
We pray for our little man and know that he is so very worth it. His future is in the hands of the Almighty and for this we are thankful!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Mason
I just love this picture with the rosy cheeks and static hair.
We don't have very many pictures with Mason looking directly into the camera. This is for a few reasons:
1. At 17 months old there really isn't time to stop moving long enough to have your picture taken.
2. Both of Mason's eyes don't always focus at the same place at the same time
So I thought I'd share this cutie picture with you all.
You're welcome :O)
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Family Love weekend...Finally
Started off with the Science center!! Everyone had a fabulous time!!! So much to do.
Finished the science center and Ty (our oldest wasn't feeling so hot) but a little chocolate fondue perked him right back up!
Watched Peter Pan 2 and had sundaes with Magic sauce...yum
Our pirate theme continues with fun pirate pictures!
Enjoying chopstick practice at a fabulous Chinese New Year Celebration!
Last but not least, sensory tray with "sand"(ground grahan crackers) and snakes
If you have no idea what Family Love weekend is all about check out my sad explination here and pictures from last year here
In a nutshell this weekend is for us to reconnect as a family. We pretend we are away and spend the time together...all together just enjoying each others company. No cleaning, minimal cooking, and doing fun things we never have time to do. IT has become our tradition for valentine's weekend, and we all look forward to it. It our way of finding God's love in one another.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Forgetting Perfect
I don't know about you, but I'm not perfect! I said it...it's true. And sometimes when I plan events, holidays, or birthdays I want everything to look perfect and seem, well, perfect.
Not this time...I forgot perfect.This was the weekend of our infamous "family love weekend". I planned, prepped, and prepared for this weekend but I didn't strive for perfect. I guess it is true that getting older does make you wiser. Or maybe 3 kids wears your brain out.
Anyway, God has worked so much on my heart. With this amazing and busy family that he has blessed me with has come some just as amazing lessons I've learned.
Like what you ask?
Well, for one: just because you plan a great time doesn't mean everyone will wake up with their "lets have a great family day" face on.
2:plans can change...add a kiddo or 2 who aren't feeling so hot.
3:not everything on your list has to be checked off to have a great time.
4:some of the best family time involves nothing you planned. (Our God is so good at taking care of the details)
5:add a 1 yr old to any event and see how much your prospective changes :0)
I am sometimes so overwhelmed at what I have been given. And although perfect looks good on paper (or a blog) it isn't our family.
I have heard so many times from people who haven't adopted that they just don't think they could "do it right". They're right,there isno earthly way we could do it right...but with God's help it is good enough. Like I mentioned at the beginning...I'm far, far, far from perfect. There are times I lose my cool. There are times I wish my kiddos would just go pkay by themselves. And there are times when that cute little one year old drives me plan crazy. Not perfect, doing what I can, the very best way I can at the moment. My safety net is knowing these aren't my children they are His and
They.
Are.
Precious!
Ps. Pictures are next!
Friday, February 8, 2013
Thursday, February 7, 2013
We're here
Well move is complete. Well almost complete. In the spring we'll have to go get the outdoor toys from our old house but we are here. We've even begun to hang pictures on the wall. There has been a fire in the fireplace continuiously and we've even survived a nasty emotion filled tantrum. Which means we are making our house a home ...and it feels so good.
It's funny how the Lord provides all that you've asked for when you're not looking.
Next up...Family Love Weekend 2013. If you missed the pictures from last year, check out the post on side bar :-)
Sunday, January 20, 2013
WE.ARE.MOVING
Ummmm, yeah! Not my favorite thing to do. The packing, the bare walls, the chaos...I don't like it! And either do my kiddos. Especially my oldest. This will be the third time we've moved in his 10 short year life. He had his melt down the other day when being asked to pack up his LEGO.
A
BIG
UGLY
MELT DOWN.
It was heartbreaking!!
They have their moments when they are excited for this. They have picked out their room colors, imagined the angry bird stick-ons, and have hung their calendars. But change is scary and I completely understand.
We are blessed to move into my husband's childhood home in the same town we live in now. The set-up and room will be so very good for our family. It leaves room for God's possibilities. Right now though the idea of all we are leaving (friends, neighborhood, space) is at the forefront of their minds.
There will be excitement on Saturday morning when we move, and Saturday night will be filled with reassurance that we are in the place where we are suppose to be. Please pray with us for a smooth transition, peace in our hearts, and the openness to accept God's will!!
Thanks!!
A
BIG
UGLY
MELT DOWN.
It was heartbreaking!!
They have their moments when they are excited for this. They have picked out their room colors, imagined the angry bird stick-ons, and have hung their calendars. But change is scary and I completely understand.
We are blessed to move into my husband's childhood home in the same town we live in now. The set-up and room will be so very good for our family. It leaves room for God's possibilities. Right now though the idea of all we are leaving (friends, neighborhood, space) is at the forefront of their minds.
There will be excitement on Saturday morning when we move, and Saturday night will be filled with reassurance that we are in the place where we are suppose to be. Please pray with us for a smooth transition, peace in our hearts, and the openness to accept God's will!!
Thanks!!
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
NYE
When our children were little we use to go all kinds of places. Some worked better then others but none were too bad...enter Mason who defiantly has an opinion about where he is brought too and where he's sleeping. We didn't know how easy we had it before our little guy :o)
Because of that opinion we stayed home this New Years Eve and decided to have our own fun...
We started our NYE fun at 2pm, we opened envelopes every hour till 10pm (which we pretended was midnight. Hey it's 12 o'clock somewhere)
I'd love to show you some pictures but having trouble uploading, so I will have to share with words.
2pm - Tattoo Bonanza
3pm-confetti making
4pm-oatmeal sensory bin, complete with little hidden trinkets
5pm-FOOD!!
6pm- New years' traditions in other countries (one involves red underwear, just sayin')
7pm-2012 year in review (month by month)
8pm-Happy New Years' Charlie Brown with Treasure popcorn (idea from my boss)
9pm-BINGO (was suppose to be waffle cookie making but we were all too full)
10pm- Celebrate New Years'...We looked on the computer for where it was midnight. We saw beautiful firework displays in Sydney, Australia
It was so much more fun then we ever thought it would be and the anticipation of opening each envelope kept the kiddos on best behavior waiting for the next one.
Now before you get to thinking I'm SOOOOO creative, I'd like to thank Pinterest. Because without them none of this would be possible, I ain't that good!!
The best part was enjoying my family. My kids have become so fun and the memories are priceless. Mason partied like a rock star until 6:30, then he was out. But while he was awake he enjoyed the party...complete with monkey tattoo and everything. He was also pleasantly surprised when he woke up the next morning and saw our homemade confetti still on the kitchen floor. Pure Joy!!
Because of that opinion we stayed home this New Years Eve and decided to have our own fun...
We started our NYE fun at 2pm, we opened envelopes every hour till 10pm (which we pretended was midnight. Hey it's 12 o'clock somewhere)
I'd love to show you some pictures but having trouble uploading, so I will have to share with words.
2pm - Tattoo Bonanza
3pm-confetti making
4pm-oatmeal sensory bin, complete with little hidden trinkets
5pm-FOOD!!
6pm- New years' traditions in other countries (one involves red underwear, just sayin')
7pm-2012 year in review (month by month)
8pm-Happy New Years' Charlie Brown with Treasure popcorn (idea from my boss)
9pm-BINGO (was suppose to be waffle cookie making but we were all too full)
10pm- Celebrate New Years'...We looked on the computer for where it was midnight. We saw beautiful firework displays in Sydney, Australia
It was so much more fun then we ever thought it would be and the anticipation of opening each envelope kept the kiddos on best behavior waiting for the next one.
Now before you get to thinking I'm SOOOOO creative, I'd like to thank Pinterest. Because without them none of this would be possible, I ain't that good!!
The best part was enjoying my family. My kids have become so fun and the memories are priceless. Mason partied like a rock star until 6:30, then he was out. But while he was awake he enjoyed the party...complete with monkey tattoo and everything. He was also pleasantly surprised when he woke up the next morning and saw our homemade confetti still on the kitchen floor. Pure Joy!!
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