As I was vacuuming the living room this morning, I cleaned couch cushions, as well. After sucking up the saltine crumbs, I removed the cushions.
WOW.
Buried underneath, I found puzzle pieces (been looking for those!), a spoon, raw spaghetti, Aidan's toy wrench, foam stickers from Valentine's Day, more crumbs, and some coins.
Buried treasures.
I think it's about time I make vacuuming the couch a part of my regular vacuuming routine.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
God's Timing of a Miracle
We all make plans, right?
We plan, to a certain degree, our life.
I plan our weekly meals and post those each Monday. We plan to go to church every Sunday. We make bigger plans, too. For instance, when we got engaged we planned our wedding a year in advance. We also planned to work for such a length of time, and to have 5 children. (Yes, the year we were engaged, my husband and I thought we'd like 5 children). We planned the type of house we'd like to have that would be our permanent home. All of these plans are years in the making.
Two years ago we planned our second child. We were charting at the time, so we knew exactly when I was fertile. The time came, and a few weeks later we saw two lines for a positive pregnancy test. We were excited! Aidan was going to be a big brother. We were going to have our 2nd baby. At that time, we were hoping for a girl. We conceived in November, so it worked out perfectly to tell our families over Christmas, which we did. We had Aidan ready to share the news in his "I'm a Big Brother" shirt. Our due date was August 2006.
Well, as the saying goes, if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.
He sends us gentle reminders that He is in control. Through those reminders we learn (hopefully) that our lives will be best off if we seek His plans for us. He knows better, after all.
March 2006 we had a lesson in God being in control, once again. At that time we learned we had lost our 2nd baby. I miscarried. We were devastated. I was angry with God. I was hurt and crushed and resentful. WHY would he take something away from us like that? From us, a couple who was respecting His wishes on procreating, being open to life and trying to create a loving home?
Oh, I had every answer in the book. He was a mean God. He took the baby away because we didn't make enough money. That was my biggest answer. He also took the baby away because it was His way of letting me know I was not a good enough mother. He was punishing us for our sins. All of these were rational reasons to me at the time.
March 8, 2006, I had the baby at home and went to the hospital for the d&c to be completed. A few days later I was at my follow-up OB appointment.
I had the best doctor. Not only was he great at being an OB, but he was a practicing Catholic who shared our beliefs. He was an NFP only doctor, an actual practicing Catholic, and he even prayed with me. I felt more than comfortable with him.
At this appointment, he was trying to comfort me. He had explained all of the physical things. He explained that there was nothing wrong with me or my body. My uterus was still healthy. My ovaries were healthy, etc. The physical healing would take much less time than the emotional and mental healing. (Not to say a parent ever "gets over it" when it comes to having lost a child, not matter if it happens right after conception, or when they are a full grown adult) I will always miss my baby.
What my doctor went on to tell me was so important. At the time, I had no idea how significant it'd be to me, even to this day. He shared with me that he and his wife also suffered this loss, and they knew what I was going through. He told me that when we are pregnant again, and holding that healthy new baby in our arms, we'll look at that baby and know that he wouldn't be here as he is if not for losing this baby when we did. He assured me God is in control, called this soul Home, and there would be peace in time.
Sure enough, he was right. Speaking from faith and experience, he gave me something to hold on to.
Back to God's sense of humor...
We lost the baby in March. That following August we found out we were expecting, again! Here is the humorous aspect to it: I found out I was pregnant with my 3rd baby the same very month and time I was due (originally) to have our 2nd. It was around the baby's due date that we lost! I don't think that was just coincidence. I think it was God.
So here we are the end of August, once again. I could have had a one year old this month! That 2nd baby of ours would have been one here on earth.
Instead, I have Aidan, who turned 3 in April, and Brennan, who is going on 5 months already.
And yes, when we held Brennan for the first time, there were so many joyous tears. Tears of relief, too. I did feel this particular sense of peace. Holding him, I knew that with the timing of losing our 2nd baby, that was the only way Brennan came to us when he did. Our 2nd baby was a part of Brennan's timing. God helped us out, and in my heart, I know our little one in heaven did, too.
God timed this miracle for us. As I grew sad close to my should-have-been due date, God flooded our hearts with joy at the news of a new baby for our family. This time around, we had our own little angel in heaven to help us.
HIS timing for a miracle...the best timing. I am so grateful.
We plan, to a certain degree, our life.
I plan our weekly meals and post those each Monday. We plan to go to church every Sunday. We make bigger plans, too. For instance, when we got engaged we planned our wedding a year in advance. We also planned to work for such a length of time, and to have 5 children. (Yes, the year we were engaged, my husband and I thought we'd like 5 children). We planned the type of house we'd like to have that would be our permanent home. All of these plans are years in the making.
Two years ago we planned our second child. We were charting at the time, so we knew exactly when I was fertile. The time came, and a few weeks later we saw two lines for a positive pregnancy test. We were excited! Aidan was going to be a big brother. We were going to have our 2nd baby. At that time, we were hoping for a girl. We conceived in November, so it worked out perfectly to tell our families over Christmas, which we did. We had Aidan ready to share the news in his "I'm a Big Brother" shirt. Our due date was August 2006.
Well, as the saying goes, if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.
He sends us gentle reminders that He is in control. Through those reminders we learn (hopefully) that our lives will be best off if we seek His plans for us. He knows better, after all.
March 2006 we had a lesson in God being in control, once again. At that time we learned we had lost our 2nd baby. I miscarried. We were devastated. I was angry with God. I was hurt and crushed and resentful. WHY would he take something away from us like that? From us, a couple who was respecting His wishes on procreating, being open to life and trying to create a loving home?
Oh, I had every answer in the book. He was a mean God. He took the baby away because we didn't make enough money. That was my biggest answer. He also took the baby away because it was His way of letting me know I was not a good enough mother. He was punishing us for our sins. All of these were rational reasons to me at the time.
March 8, 2006, I had the baby at home and went to the hospital for the d&c to be completed. A few days later I was at my follow-up OB appointment.
I had the best doctor. Not only was he great at being an OB, but he was a practicing Catholic who shared our beliefs. He was an NFP only doctor, an actual practicing Catholic, and he even prayed with me. I felt more than comfortable with him.
At this appointment, he was trying to comfort me. He had explained all of the physical things. He explained that there was nothing wrong with me or my body. My uterus was still healthy. My ovaries were healthy, etc. The physical healing would take much less time than the emotional and mental healing. (Not to say a parent ever "gets over it" when it comes to having lost a child, not matter if it happens right after conception, or when they are a full grown adult) I will always miss my baby.
What my doctor went on to tell me was so important. At the time, I had no idea how significant it'd be to me, even to this day. He shared with me that he and his wife also suffered this loss, and they knew what I was going through. He told me that when we are pregnant again, and holding that healthy new baby in our arms, we'll look at that baby and know that he wouldn't be here as he is if not for losing this baby when we did. He assured me God is in control, called this soul Home, and there would be peace in time.
Sure enough, he was right. Speaking from faith and experience, he gave me something to hold on to.
Back to God's sense of humor...
We lost the baby in March. That following August we found out we were expecting, again! Here is the humorous aspect to it: I found out I was pregnant with my 3rd baby the same very month and time I was due (originally) to have our 2nd. It was around the baby's due date that we lost! I don't think that was just coincidence. I think it was God.
So here we are the end of August, once again. I could have had a one year old this month! That 2nd baby of ours would have been one here on earth.
Instead, I have Aidan, who turned 3 in April, and Brennan, who is going on 5 months already.
And yes, when we held Brennan for the first time, there were so many joyous tears. Tears of relief, too. I did feel this particular sense of peace. Holding him, I knew that with the timing of losing our 2nd baby, that was the only way Brennan came to us when he did. Our 2nd baby was a part of Brennan's timing. God helped us out, and in my heart, I know our little one in heaven did, too.
God timed this miracle for us. As I grew sad close to my should-have-been due date, God flooded our hearts with joy at the news of a new baby for our family. This time around, we had our own little angel in heaven to help us.
HIS timing for a miracle...the best timing. I am so grateful.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Menu Plan Monday--August 27, 2007
Good Morning! Ready for another week? It's hard to believe it's the last week of August already! All students around here return back to school this week. For me, the return of school (& fall) kind of marks an unofficial "new year". I welcome it! I only wish all of that fall weather was closer to staying, too.
As part of my unofficial new year, I need to get myself back on the weight loss track. I have been so bad about staying on Weight Watchers this month, and I have not been good to my body. This week's menu will hopefully help me stay on track.
For lunches, I'll be eating the cabbage-vegetable soup, veggie burgers, and snacking on fresh raw cucumber. 
Monday: Ground Beef Tacos in hard shells
Tuesday: Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings
Tuesday: Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings
Wednesday: Kidney Beans & Corn over Rice
Thursday: Parmesan Chicken with bread rolls, fresh green beans
Friday: Dinner at my in-laws, or sandwiches on the way.
I am re-committed to getting back on track with Weight Watchers. I've been horrible lately. The last thing I want is my larger body back. I'm trying to visualize myself in that size 8 or even 6 once again...
Have a wonderful week! Please visit the Organizing Junkie for more menu ideas!
Friday, August 24, 2007
On Family Planning--What do you do?
It's hard to make a post like this without seeming judgemental or nosey. So let me say here, at the beginning, that neither is why I write and ask you to share with me, if you are so comfortable.
I'm in a somewhat odd place right now as far as family planning goes. It's no secret I've written much about Natural Family Planning. Dh and I have learned 2 different methods, and we've practiced them successfully. Even though I know that, I get tempted at times to throw in the cards and go a different route.
Being Catholic, that doesn't exactly "fly", if you know what I mean.
And I respect that and do understand why the Church teaches what it teaches. Actually, in reading on history, all churches taught similar teachings on artificial birth control up until the 1930's.
I'm getting off topic here. Regardless of moral reasons for practicing NFP, regardless of being Catholic or not, I'd hope to sway in that direction for health reasons.
The pill scares me. Same as IUDs, the patch, etc.
I get scared, but in times of insecurities, I am tempted to go a different route. I'm tempted to do as the general public does...
So if you're still with me at this point, (thank you!), and you're comfortable sharing, please tell me-what do you do for family planning? If you use artificial means, do you worry about the health risks associated with that? Side effects? Cost?
Furthermore, if you are non-Catholic & attend another church, what does your church teach on this matter? Did you have marriage prep courses? What did they teach at that time?
Promising this is no slap in the face...another thing that perplexes me is women who are so natural in areas-breastfeeding, organic foods, products, etc-but then they will be on artificial hormones to control their fertility. I don't get that. Any insight?
I think I'm trying to learn something here from you all, and hoping that your answers will help me learn something about myself, once again.
Thanks in advance. I hope this did not come off as judgemental. I am curious. I am confused. I am appreciative for your feedback.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Baby Dagny Contest!
A contest yesterday, another today...life is good in the blogging world. ;)
Adventures in Babywearing is hosting a contest for a Peekaboo Pouch. It's from Baby Dagny; Baby Dagny is also having a humongous sale going on right now! (I'm buying some of those sleepers...$5!)
Head on over to enter the contest!
Adventures in Babywearing is hosting a contest for a Peekaboo Pouch. It's from Baby Dagny; Baby Dagny is also having a humongous sale going on right now! (I'm buying some of those sleepers...$5!)
Head on over to enter the contest!
Monday, August 20, 2007
1,220 Miles Later (&photo overload!)
It's good to be home. It's always nice to go away, but always nicer to come home again, isn't it?
Visiting with family, friends, eating out (grrr...gaining weight), play lands, a train ride on George the train--it was a very nice trip. See you all again in SC in December!
I am so pleasantly surprised by how well my boys did in the car for so long. BOTH of them!
I had expected the need to stop a lot with Brennan nursing, as well as Aidan being potty trained now. (you know, that tiny bladder!) My boys were so good. We really didn't have to stop that much, they slept well, Aidan made the entire car trip with no accidents, and both seemed content enough in the car. And we were in the car for quite some time. As I mentioned before, we drove down to SC with my parents while my husband was in Vegas on a business trip. Up until this trip, we hadn't been on this long of a car ride with Brennan, nor with Aidan out of diapers and only going on the potty. I was stressing about it.
The trip was nice. We left Ohio and drove to Gatlinburg, TN, where we stayed the night in my parents' timeshare room. Gatlinburg is gorgeous! 
I've never been there before. I definitely want to go back there with my husband one day. Aidan couldn't wait to get out of the car and run around. He had fun going to the playground with his grandparents. 
The next day we finished the drive to SC. It was so good to see my sister and her family. Brennan met everyone for the first time! He just loved my niece and nephew, and Aidan couldn't get enough of them, either. ;)
An added bonus was getting to visit with Jennifer & her son, Landon. I've been friends with her since 6th grade, and Landon is my godson. (I owe him a ton!) Her post has much better pictures, as you can see. Our boys had so much fun playing together. I was sad to have to leave! I really wish we could see each other more.
Visiting with family, friends, eating out (grrr...gaining weight), play lands, a train ride on George the train--it was a very nice trip. See you all again in SC in December!Don't Mess with Momma!
They say don't mess with Texas, I say Don't Mess with Momma!
The momma being me. Grrr........(hear me growl?)
Sunday was a rainy day so we went to the mall to get out of the house. Aidan loves the play area there, and near the play area is a wonderful family lounge. The family lounge has a family bathroom in it, 3 perfect nursing stations (w/ comfy chairs, magazines, etc), built in diaper changing stations, a bottle warmer, multiple sinks, a TV, and toys for kids. It's a great place. Several times now I've taken advantage, going into one of the nursing rooms with Brennan. There's a curtain to close for privacy, and it's very cosy. I've never had any problems.
Until Sunday.
I had been nursing Brennan for some time, and he was almost asleep. I overheard a group of teeny-boppers come into the room (loudly). They were messing with some of the toys, making a few wisecracks, etc. I rolled my eyes, thinking to myself "thank God I'm well past puberty and not a teenager any more!". Those kids were too old to be in there (as they had no reason to be in there), but I knew they'd be out soon.
Then I heard a ton of giggling and one girl say "are those shower stalls?!", and her friend replied, "no, they're for breastfeeding!". Followed by a lot of [immature] giggling. Then a big hush came over the room. I thought the nimrods moved on about their teeny-bopper trip to the mall, you know, until their parents had to pick them back up.
So I'm nursing Brennan and his eyes are closed, almost fully asleep. I was planning to put him in the sling and go meet up with hubby and Aidan. Suddenly one of those teeny-boppers runs and thrashes open my nursing curtain, then runs off for dear life.
I was pissed. Totally pissed.
The rudeness of the youth today...and yes, I know I sound like some AARP senior citizen, but it's true. I am so sick of seeing this aged-person tramping around in public wearing clothes with foul expressions and thinking that the world owes them everything. (and where are their parents?!)
Fortunately this little missy wore bright pink leggings. You couldn't miss them. And I didn't.
I latched Brennan off and got myself together and stormed out of there.
Here I was trying to be discreet and respectful of others by not nursing in the open. I came into a specific place designated for breastfeeding. I belonged there without interruption.
So I found the moronic girl who thought she was so cool. I first handed hubby the baby, then said I'd be back. I found the girl with her friends, and asked her if she was in the family lounge. She stared blankly and said a weak "yes".
I asked, "were you the one who YANKED on the curtain while I was nursing my baby?!"
Girl "yea..."
Me: "well, I was in there nursing my BABY, my 4 month old tiny baby whom I could've dropped being startled by you YANKING on the curtain like that! A BABY. I was breastfeeding him in there and he could've gotten hurt!"
Girl "I'm sorry...my friend said he'd be in there" (total lie)
Me: " oh really?! Is your friend BREASTFEEDING?!"
Girl: "no..."
ME: "didn't think so. Maybe you should come to the mall with your PARENTS if you can't handle being mature enough to come on your own! UNSUPERVISED!"
I went on to add, "Look, I'm not a bitch, but you had no business doing that".
Girl: "I'm really sorry..."
I thanked her for her apology, her laughing friends went off giggling, and I headed to fill hubby in on why I lost my cool.
Maybe I shouldn't have said anything. Before being a mom, I don't think I would have. But I am a mom. I was taking care of my baby.
It felt good to give her a piece of my mind. I felt slightly bad, but I not that bad. (lol) Think I was wrong?
The momma being me. Grrr........(hear me growl?)
Sunday was a rainy day so we went to the mall to get out of the house. Aidan loves the play area there, and near the play area is a wonderful family lounge. The family lounge has a family bathroom in it, 3 perfect nursing stations (w/ comfy chairs, magazines, etc), built in diaper changing stations, a bottle warmer, multiple sinks, a TV, and toys for kids. It's a great place. Several times now I've taken advantage, going into one of the nursing rooms with Brennan. There's a curtain to close for privacy, and it's very cosy. I've never had any problems.
Until Sunday.
I had been nursing Brennan for some time, and he was almost asleep. I overheard a group of teeny-boppers come into the room (loudly). They were messing with some of the toys, making a few wisecracks, etc. I rolled my eyes, thinking to myself "thank God I'm well past puberty and not a teenager any more!". Those kids were too old to be in there (as they had no reason to be in there), but I knew they'd be out soon.
Then I heard a ton of giggling and one girl say "are those shower stalls?!", and her friend replied, "no, they're for breastfeeding!". Followed by a lot of [immature] giggling. Then a big hush came over the room. I thought the nimrods moved on about their teeny-bopper trip to the mall, you know, until their parents had to pick them back up.
So I'm nursing Brennan and his eyes are closed, almost fully asleep. I was planning to put him in the sling and go meet up with hubby and Aidan. Suddenly one of those teeny-boppers runs and thrashes open my nursing curtain, then runs off for dear life.
I was pissed. Totally pissed.
The rudeness of the youth today...and yes, I know I sound like some AARP senior citizen, but it's true. I am so sick of seeing this aged-person tramping around in public wearing clothes with foul expressions and thinking that the world owes them everything. (and where are their parents?!)
Fortunately this little missy wore bright pink leggings. You couldn't miss them. And I didn't.
I latched Brennan off and got myself together and stormed out of there.
Here I was trying to be discreet and respectful of others by not nursing in the open. I came into a specific place designated for breastfeeding. I belonged there without interruption.
So I found the moronic girl who thought she was so cool. I first handed hubby the baby, then said I'd be back. I found the girl with her friends, and asked her if she was in the family lounge. She stared blankly and said a weak "yes".
I asked, "were you the one who YANKED on the curtain while I was nursing my baby?!"
Girl "yea..."
Me: "well, I was in there nursing my BABY, my 4 month old tiny baby whom I could've dropped being startled by you YANKING on the curtain like that! A BABY. I was breastfeeding him in there and he could've gotten hurt!"
Girl "I'm sorry...my friend said he'd be in there" (total lie)
Me: " oh really?! Is your friend BREASTFEEDING?!"
Girl: "no..."
ME: "didn't think so. Maybe you should come to the mall with your PARENTS if you can't handle being mature enough to come on your own! UNSUPERVISED!"
I went on to add, "Look, I'm not a bitch, but you had no business doing that".
Girl: "I'm really sorry..."
I thanked her for her apology, her laughing friends went off giggling, and I headed to fill hubby in on why I lost my cool.
Maybe I shouldn't have said anything. Before being a mom, I don't think I would have. But I am a mom. I was taking care of my baby.
It felt good to give her a piece of my mind. I felt slightly bad, but I not that bad. (lol) Think I was wrong?
Menu Plan Monday--August 20, 2007
It's been a while! I was in SC visiting family. We've been super busy. I gladly welcome life slowing down again and getting back to "normal".
Since we were out of town, groceries are not abundant right now. So our menu this week is not much to be desired. Oh well! I'll aim for nicer meals next week.
Have a great week!
Monday: Bean burritos
Tuesday: Crockpot Chicken & Rice
Wednesday: Meatloaf Muffins
Thursday: Spaghetti?
Friday: TBD (I can go grocery shopping, so hopefully something good!)
Thanks to Laura, The Organizing Junkie for hosting MPM!
Baby in Black (another contest!)
Have you ever tried to find black tops for your baby? Pretty hard, right?
I was reading at Apples 'n' Oranges this morning and agreed with their post about it. Yup, it seems the clothing designers think babes are better off in color. BUT, they do look cute in black, too.
If you click here you can enter the contest to win this shirt for your little one. Cute, isn't it?
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Hittin' the Road!
My boys and I are leaving bright & early tomorrow morning. We're driving back to SC with my parents while my hubby goes on a business trip to VEGAS. (yea, not fair!) So I may be on a bloggy break. I can't wait to to see my sister (& her family) as well as my friend Jennifer! (& family)
Stay tuned! ;) More pictures to come!
It's going to be a long car drive (13+ hours), but hopefully it will go well. Keep your fingers crossed! If I'm lucky, Brennan will sleep quite a bit, nurse well each time we stop, and Aidan will play with his things in the car (as well as make it to the potty each time!).
Before I go, I wanted to share pictures with you. :) We had our boys' pictures done professionally over the weekend (1st time). They grow cuter each day!
Stay tuned! ;) More pictures to come!
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Wordless Wednesday
(Aidan the ring bearer--dancing at his uncle's wedding reception in the party hat)For more Wordless Wednesday, go here.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Fall Fever
I've got fall fever.
I know it's normally "spring fever", but I have fall fever. How about you? Do you find yourself itching for fall?
Besides cooler weather (I'm so ready to say goodbye to this humidity and 90+ temps!), I have fall fever for several reasons.
Everything gets back on a routine/schedule with fall. Back to school, back to normal for all of us! Summer gets too spastic. And I'll admit it, even though it sounds bratty-I'm ready for the bigger kids to go back to school! I like the parks and playgrounds being less crowded during the fall, as well as the library! Stores, too.
There's also the return of the regular shows on TV. Now that may sound pathetic and couch-potato-ish, but really, it's not. I like the down time of a good show after the boys are asleep. Hubby and I enjoy watching them together. Summer programs don't offer that much. (Except for The Closer-like that one!)
What do you watch?
I'm most excited about The Office! Best show. ;) Also added in our dvr is What About Brian, Heroes (hubby), Law & Order SVU (me), Dancing with the Stars, Earl (hubby)...anything else? Hmmm....I'm drawing blanks. Anything new look good starting this fall?
I'm ready for fall activities, too. Being outside without sweltering heat will be nice. Every fall we also go to the apple orchard. I can't wait! I may even attempt to make my first apple pie this year (MAYBE). Aidan would love to help me with that. ;)
I've already been thinking about Halloween costumes. Early, but not too early. Aidan has been talking about being a dinosaur this year. Brennan will most likely be a pumpkin, but we'll see.
I'm super excited to do fall clothes shopping for the boys! Brennan doesn't need that much since we have Aidan's clothes from that size. But Aidan needs stuff. New jeans, church clothes, shoes, and more. I look forward to it!
Oh! And for the 1st time Aidan will be doing Sunday school this year! It's the first year he is old enough. He's also going to go to "library school", aka story time. However, at this age, I know no longer have to be in the room with him. I have to be in the library, but he can go to the story room alone. AND they do a craft project, too!
Wanna know what else? There's a chance Aidan will take a boys tap class this fall! We got info on it yesterday. He loves to dance, and, tell me, what little kid wouldn't love shoes that make noise?! I'm just beaming at the thought of him in a tap class. Hot diggity dog!
So that explains my fall fever. Come on fall & get here!
I know it's normally "spring fever", but I have fall fever. How about you? Do you find yourself itching for fall?
Besides cooler weather (I'm so ready to say goodbye to this humidity and 90+ temps!), I have fall fever for several reasons.
Everything gets back on a routine/schedule with fall. Back to school, back to normal for all of us! Summer gets too spastic. And I'll admit it, even though it sounds bratty-I'm ready for the bigger kids to go back to school! I like the parks and playgrounds being less crowded during the fall, as well as the library! Stores, too.
There's also the return of the regular shows on TV. Now that may sound pathetic and couch-potato-ish, but really, it's not. I like the down time of a good show after the boys are asleep. Hubby and I enjoy watching them together. Summer programs don't offer that much. (Except for The Closer-like that one!)
What do you watch?
I'm most excited about The Office! Best show. ;) Also added in our dvr is What About Brian, Heroes (hubby), Law & Order SVU (me), Dancing with the Stars, Earl (hubby)...anything else? Hmmm....I'm drawing blanks. Anything new look good starting this fall?
I'm ready for fall activities, too. Being outside without sweltering heat will be nice. Every fall we also go to the apple orchard. I can't wait! I may even attempt to make my first apple pie this year (MAYBE). Aidan would love to help me with that. ;)
I've already been thinking about Halloween costumes. Early, but not too early. Aidan has been talking about being a dinosaur this year. Brennan will most likely be a pumpkin, but we'll see.
I'm super excited to do fall clothes shopping for the boys! Brennan doesn't need that much since we have Aidan's clothes from that size. But Aidan needs stuff. New jeans, church clothes, shoes, and more. I look forward to it!
Oh! And for the 1st time Aidan will be doing Sunday school this year! It's the first year he is old enough. He's also going to go to "library school", aka story time. However, at this age, I know no longer have to be in the room with him. I have to be in the library, but he can go to the story room alone. AND they do a craft project, too!
Wanna know what else? There's a chance Aidan will take a boys tap class this fall! We got info on it yesterday. He loves to dance, and, tell me, what little kid wouldn't love shoes that make noise?! I'm just beaming at the thought of him in a tap class. Hot diggity dog!
So that explains my fall fever. Come on fall & get here!
Vaccines: New Survery Findings
Caught this on Mothering.com today:
Among more than 9,000 boys age 4-17, the survey found vaccinated boys were two and a half times (155%) more likely to have neurological disorders compared to their unvaccinated peers. Vaccinated boys were 224% more likely to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and 61% more likely to have autism.
For older vaccinated boys in the 11-17 age bracket, the results were even more pronounced. Vaccinated boys were 158% more likely to have a neurological disorder, 317% more likely to have ADHD, and 112% more likely to have autism.
Yup. I'd say this is shocking information, but I've read it many times before. While it's no longer shocking to me, it is just as scary and sad.
Read the Mothering clip here.
Among more than 9,000 boys age 4-17, the survey found vaccinated boys were two and a half times (155%) more likely to have neurological disorders compared to their unvaccinated peers. Vaccinated boys were 224% more likely to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and 61% more likely to have autism.
For older vaccinated boys in the 11-17 age bracket, the results were even more pronounced. Vaccinated boys were 158% more likely to have a neurological disorder, 317% more likely to have ADHD, and 112% more likely to have autism.
Yup. I'd say this is shocking information, but I've read it many times before. While it's no longer shocking to me, it is just as scary and sad.
Read the Mothering clip here.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Menu Plan Monday--August 6, 2007
Last week became quite hectic! We were recuperating from a family wedding, and before gaining energy back from that, our new nephew was born! We took care of our 15 month old niece for a few days during all of this. T-I-R-E-D!! Needless to say, we have a few carry-over meals this week. 
Monday: Impossibly Easy Southwestern Pie, maybe with corn on the side
Monday: Impossibly Easy Southwestern Pie, maybe with corn on the sideTuesday: Crockpot chicken over rice, green beans (chick. w/ cream of celery soup, s&p)
Wednesday: Rice & Beans with broccoli on the side
Thursday: TBD-my parents are visiting (from SC), so we may eat out!
Friday: Dinner out with my parents! :)
Have a great week! Visit The Organizing Junkie for more great menu ideas! And thanks to Laura for hosting MPM. :)
17 & Counting
Arkansas Couple Has 17th Child, Still Want More
Has anyone not heard of the Duggars by now?
I say congrats to them! While I don't share all of their beliefs, I definitely agree with this: "We are just so grateful to God for another gift from him,".
That's the way it ought to be viewed.
Now, I'm wondering if they do have more children, what other "J" names are left!
*UPDATE* Thoughts of a Regular Guy has a pretty good post on the Duggars. Read the comments! (let me just say it's almost surprising how people perceive this situation...almost)
Has anyone not heard of the Duggars by now?
I say congrats to them! While I don't share all of their beliefs, I definitely agree with this: "We are just so grateful to God for another gift from him,".
That's the way it ought to be viewed.
Now, I'm wondering if they do have more children, what other "J" names are left!
*UPDATE* Thoughts of a Regular Guy has a pretty good post on the Duggars. Read the comments! (let me just say it's almost surprising how people perceive this situation...almost)
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Thought I was Smarter
Maybe my major lack of sleep this week has something to do with it!
H/t: Paul at Thoughts of a Regular Guy
(I'm thinking of re-taking this after more rest! It's almost embarrassing that I posted it, huh? See...I'm confident I'm smarter!)
H/t: Paul at Thoughts of a Regular Guy
(I'm thinking of re-taking this after more rest! It's almost embarrassing that I posted it, huh? See...I'm confident I'm smarter!)
We were in the Paper!
Brennan and I. :)
We were looking forward to the coverage, but the article was much different than we were all led to believe. Not necessarily bad, but we were a little disappointed. It generally covered ways to soothe babies over all. And yes, babywearing is a huge part of that.
Last month at our NINO meeting, our local paper sent a photographer there to snap some shots. We were told there was going to be an article on babywearing and natural parenting. Exciting, right?
I was there for group shots, and the photographer also got a few of me wearing Brennan. And we made it in the paper! I'm wearing him here in my Hotsling.
We were looking forward to the coverage, but the article was much different than we were all led to believe. Not necessarily bad, but we were a little disappointed. It generally covered ways to soothe babies over all. And yes, babywearing is a huge part of that.Regardless, it's kind of cool that Brennan has already been in the paper, and he's only 3 months old! I'm saving a copy for his baby book. ;)
Here is the article online. For whatever reason, our picture was not featured online as were some of the others. Some online were also not featured in the actual physical paper-go figure!
(oh, and PS...not to sound picky, but for anyone in the market...this is not a wrap as mentioned in the caption. This is a sling/pouch. A wrap is a different style carrier)
Friday, August 03, 2007
I'm Surrounded by Handsome Men
It was all clear last weekend when we were in Michigan for my brother-in-law's wedding. :)
My husband was a groomsmen, and my son Aidan was ring bearer. Being that he's 3, I was a little nervous how he'd do. But he was great! I am so proud of him! And this may sound dorky, but I seriously teared up as he walked down the aisle. I know he's three, but hey, it's my first time seeing him so grown-up looking, and walking down a church aisle with a girl! I know if he gets married, it will seem like tomorrow. It just goes by that fast!
On to showing off how lucky I am, being surrounded by fine looking men and all ;)
My proof: Handsome men! (L-R, hubby, bil, fil, other bil, son, and son)
Our family of 4!
It was the cutest thing watching them dance! I also learned my son is becoming quite the ladies man!
Aidan wearing the "party hat"
My husband was a groomsmen, and my son Aidan was ring bearer. Being that he's 3, I was a little nervous how he'd do. But he was great! I am so proud of him! And this may sound dorky, but I seriously teared up as he walked down the aisle. I know he's three, but hey, it's my first time seeing him so grown-up looking, and walking down a church aisle with a girl! I know if he gets married, it will seem like tomorrow. It just goes by that fast!
On to showing off how lucky I am, being surrounded by fine looking men and all ;)
Here is a shot of Aidan before the ceremony began, all dressed up:
My proof: Handsome men! (L-R, hubby, bil, fil, other bil, son, and son)
Our family of 4!
It was the cutest thing watching them dance! I also learned my son is becoming quite the ladies man!
Aidan wearing the "party hat"
OK, some explanations. I call Aidan a ladies man because he is. My child has a love for dance, thank God. I danced all growing up, love to dance still, and we share that. You could not keep him off the dance floor! And I tell ya, he has moves! ;) People we didn't even know would come up to us and ask us if we taught him dance moves or if he took lessons. (shock!) He was so cute out there. A slow song would come on, and he just wouldn't get it. He also pulled every single girl out there under the age of 10. He didn't even give them a chance to decline the invitation. He eyed them up, and then dragged them on to the dance floor!
He did break his momma's heart, though. He would not dance with me! At all! I'd come close to him, and he would go the opposite direction! Apparently I wasn't as fun to dance with as the darling little misses that were there. I was heartbroken for the first time, realizing that he's already growing up way too fast *sigh* NOT TO MENTION he and the flower girl kept trying to kiss as the groom and bride did when people would clang their glasses! (and annoying tradition, I might add!)
Later on at the reception, one of my husband's more lively cousins brought out the party hat (sombrero). I don't know why, but sure enough he did and it was hilarious watching people put it on! Aidan especially cracked up. (OK, maybe I'm a little biased being his mom and all)
So there you have it. It was a beautiful wedding and great reception. I'm proud of Aidan doing a great job as ring bearer. And looking at the pics, I feel like a lucky girl with all these handsome men in my life! ;)
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Noteworthy Blog Posts
I've had such a B-U-S-Y week, I haven't had time to escape into blogworld like usual. (Ha! I don't usually have the time, but I make the time. I couldn't even do that this week!)
I've still been reading every one's blogs, though. To make a post for this week, I'm just going to mention some posts that I think are worth mentioning. ;) Check them out. Maybe you'll think it's a worthy trip, too.
-Great Parenting Advice over at Musings of a Housewife (I teared up, too!)
-An excellent post about vaccines and the choices we do have at Adventures in Babywearing
-Every parent could relate to this post at Catholic Dads if you have more than one kiddo in the house
-Angie offers a great way to look at housework; so does Mary, for that matter!
-Paul at Thoughts of a Regular Guy shared a thought-provoking clip on NFP vs. Contraception
-Check Mom 4 Life's blog tomorrow for a possible giveaway :)
Have a nice night! I hope to resume my normal blogging soon. If for no one else, then me! My own outlet. ;)
I've still been reading every one's blogs, though. To make a post for this week, I'm just going to mention some posts that I think are worth mentioning. ;) Check them out. Maybe you'll think it's a worthy trip, too.
-Great Parenting Advice over at Musings of a Housewife (I teared up, too!)
-An excellent post about vaccines and the choices we do have at Adventures in Babywearing
-Every parent could relate to this post at Catholic Dads if you have more than one kiddo in the house
-Angie offers a great way to look at housework; so does Mary, for that matter!
-Paul at Thoughts of a Regular Guy shared a thought-provoking clip on NFP vs. Contraception
-Check Mom 4 Life's blog tomorrow for a possible giveaway :)
Have a nice night! I hope to resume my normal blogging soon. If for no one else, then me! My own outlet. ;)
Give Peas a Chance!
Hee-hee. Anything corny and catchy & I'll like it. ;) (corny? I mean, uh, peas-y!) 
If you think this is a cute shirt, then head over to Apples N' Oranges to enter their contest to win this in a size 18 months onesie. That simple! Good Luck.
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