Happy 5th Birthday, Park!

Bubby boo,

I can hardly believe the grown up little boy in front of me is really you. You have matured so much since your fourth birthday. Last year at this time you were counting down the days until your baby brother entered the world. It just so happened when that moment finally arrived, she was actually your sweet baby SISTER instead! Oh, what a difference a year makes! Last week you told me, "Remember when I used to want Presli to be a boy? I was so silly, Mommy! I'm so glad God gave us a girl because I can't imagine life without my baby sister."
And my heart melted for the millionth time this year from the front row seat I've had at watching the love that has developed between you two. To say she adores you would be the understatement of the year. She basks in your attention and waits for you to tote her all over the house. She giggles the loudest when you feed her and squeals in delight when you play ride-a-little- horsey. I've long sense gotten over how rough you are with her because as you always point out, "But Mommy, look how much she likes it." How can I argue with that huge grin on both your faces? You are her biggest fan and she is your personal cheerleader. The only time you have shown any jealousy of her is if Daddy gives her too much attention when you are trying to wrestle with him. For the most part, you want her included in everything!

You also completed your first year of preschool and it was so much more than either of us could have imagined. I was hesitant to share you with someone for 2 days a week, but I soon learned how you flourished at the opportunity to meet new friends and have new experiences. You adored your teachers and eagerly anticipated what theme each week would hold. The time was also valuable for me to adjust to life with a new baby and balance giving each of you everything you deserve. Daddy and I take the responsibility of molding and shaping you very seriously and could not have been more pleased with the results of how this preschool opportunity has helped further grow you into the person we pray you become.

As for your personal interests this year, anything that requires hitting, kicking, or catching a ball is still high priority on your list. You played on your first organized team this summer and having Daddy as your soccer coach has been icing on your cake. (Because let's be real, he still ranks #1 on your list of interests!) You are also slowly discovering the world of video games on Daddy's phone and the two of you love to see what new level you can reach together. You also love to work in the yard together, build or fix any and everything, race, wrestle, tell jokes, count coins, go to Cabellas, fish, read your Bible, or listen to his famous Boy and Mr. Squirrel stories. You've also gained a huge interest in Star Wars and super heroes and love acting out anything related to this with your friends. You adore having friends and cousins over to play and I'm amazed at how caring of a friend you are becoming. (Oh, what a long way you've come in this area!:)

As active as you are, books are still your passion and you've even developed a love of books on CD. In fact, you love them so much I've even had to limit your listening time to an hour a day. You've become quite the little reader and often finish an entire book without me having to help out with a single word. So far, you really like the Biscuit series of books that your Phyl Phyl introduced you to, but you also love to go to the library and pick out all kind of new reader books. You are famous for making the deal, "I'll read you a book if you'll read me one, too." And since you got your love of books from me, that is one deal I can never resist. You are so excited to read to Presli, but told me it bothers you that "she likes to eat books more than she likes to read them." Let's keep working on her, buddy.

Speaking of new skills, you have also mastered riding a bike without training wheels this year. And can I just say that you are so proud of yourself? But, nothing makes you as proud as the fact that you lost your first tooth in June.

But do you know what Daddy and I are proud of? We are proud of the generous spirit God is developing in you. We are proud to see what a servant you are becoming. We are proud to see glimpses of how our correction and discipline of you is paying off. We are proud to see your tenderness towards Presli and willingness to apologize if you've hurt her feelings. We are proud to see your obedience in doing what is asked of you. You have such an independent spirit, determination to excel, love for learning, excitement for experiencing new things, and overall joy for life.

We adore you precious boy! Thank you for filling our world with color and bringing us unspeakable joy. You are uniquely you and we are so thankful that God's creative fingerprints are all over you.

Happy birthday, my love!

Baby Doll

Just 2 months and already making friends!


And this one thinks SHE is his baby doll.


Yesterday, Park broke the news to me that he no longer wants to marry me when he grows up. He has decided to marry Presli instead and they will live with Chris and me forever.

I would love to get that in writing, but considering Park got teary this morning walking into preschool because he was nervous about writing the letter "N", I'm not thinking it is likely.Poor thing said that as much as he tells his hand what to write, sometimes it just won't listen:)

Thankfully he forgot all about it when he kissed Presli goodbye and she licked him. The tears were replaced with some joyful giggles as he ran into his class contemplating what color Presli would want him to paint his nickles. (In case you haven't guessed it is N week at preschool.)

Baby girl, I pray each day that you will marry a man that loves you as much as your Bubby and Daddy do!

The End of an Era

It has been almost a week and I am still in shock.

As I shamefully mentioned a while back, we had yet to do away with Park's beloved Pa (known to most as the pacifier) when it came to sleeping. My intention all along was to do away with it on his third birthday, but as that day came and went I could not bring myself to do it.

During that time, we had been facing about 10 months of infertility and the idea of forcing my already too grown up only child to give up his solitary tie to babyhood was too daunting of a task. Chris offered to take matters into his own hands, but I pleaded for an extension.

He happily obliged me because he is a smart man that knows when Momma isn't happy, nobody is happy.

Around the time Park turned 3 and 1/2, I found out I was finally pregnant. And although this seemed like the prime time to dispose of the bad habit, I decided I was too tired to worry with it and gave myself a May deadline. Chris saw the writing on the wall when May came and went and Park's nightimes were still filled with round-the clock, blissful sucking.

And to make matters worse, I showed no remorse whatsoever. I think Chris finally realized the gravity of the situation when I shared with him that a friend had told me kids lose the desire to suck at age 7. After all, what could be the harm in waiting another 4 years?

Enter private discussions between Park and his Daddy.

So, imagine my surprise when Park woke up the morning of his 4th birthday to announce he was so big he no longer needed a Pa. He nonchalantly gathered his aged, dilapidated friends and made the executive decision to throw them all in the pond.

I'm not going to lie, my heart was in my throat. Did he realize the finality of his actions? Could he live with this come nightfall? Would any of us ever sleep again?

After voicing my concerns, perhaps Chris had a point when he delicately mentioned that it might not be Park that had the addiction, after all.

As I had promised Park months before, we let him pick out his favorite Pa and took him to the Build-A-Bear workshop to choose any stuffed animal his little heart desired to store my his beloved treasure inside. Before placing the Pa within the hand of the carefully chosen bunny, I asked him if he wanted to suck it one last time. (All the while, ignoring the eye roll coming from Chris' direction that seemed to ask me, "Would YOU like to suck it one last time?")

Park replied with an underwhelming, "Sure. Why not?" After 4 years of being tied to this beloved item, THIS was all the enthusiasm he could muster??? After sucking it for about .05 seconds he happily shoved it in my hand and announced, "Ok-I'm Done."

Who WAS this kid????

* Please note that his favorite Pa just so happens to be a little on the feminine side. After they discontinued the brand he LOVED so dearly, Aunt Challi remarkably found them online, but all they had were girl pacifiers! He didn't seem to mind.

And before I could change my mind, I tearfully handed it to the stuffing worker, who thoughtfully reminded me if this doesn't work I could simply cut it out, and watched as Pa was transformed into a stuffed bunny. She handed it over to us with sympathy in her eyes, but not before whispering to me, "May God bless you all tonight."

Clearly, she was a Momma who has disposed of a pacifier before.

Park was ecstatic and despite several precious name suggestions from me, such as Pa Baby or Fluffy Love, he proudly announced that his new lovey would be called "Bubba Bunny!!!!"

Allrightythen.

And just like that, we left the store with Bubba (and his birth certificate) in hand. The fact that Bubba shared Park's birthday was icing on his little cake.

We headed out to the Highland Village Balloon Festival, where he proudly introduced Bubba to Grandma and Grandpa. And as we returned home that evening, Park and Bubba curled up for the night without so much as a protest. They held hands until morning.

And with the exception of one mention of Pa (more of a remembrance than asking for it), every night since then has been equally as smooth sailing.

At least for him. Like it or not, my precious Park is growing up.

We are so proud of you, Big Boy! (Welcome to the family, Bubba:)

Park's 4th Birthday Love Letter

My Precious Bubby,

Yesterday you told me that you are having trouble remembering being a baby. Not to worry, sweet boy, for me it seems like it was just five minutes ago. I, on the other hand, am having trouble believing that you are turning FOUR today!

Every year of your life, I have written you a love letter on your birthday in hopes of someday leaving you a small glimpse of how crazy I am about you. If I can sum up this last year in one word, it would have to be maturity. I am blown away at how grown up you have become.

It is not to say that there have not been bumps along the road, but I am definitely seeing glimpses of your desire to be obedient and hunger to stay within the limits Daddy and I set for you. It is also amazing to see you share toys so willingly and play so well with your friends (most of the time:). It wasn't all that long ago that, well, how can I put this nicely? Um, let's just say that was not always the case.

Make no mistake, though, your personality is still gravely passionate. There is an intensity about you that sets you apart from others your age and your energy level is non-stop. You are full of drive, exuberance for life, and I've never met a little man that likes to work so hard. You do everything wholeheartedly, feel things deeply, and nothing will deter you from obtaining something you set your mind to.
Speaking of your mind, it NEVER stops working. Naps have become a thing of the past this year because relaxing does not come easy to you. I can't tell you the number of times you have called me into your room while trying to fall asleep to ask me about a question you are pondering from earlier in the day or to remind me of something we need to do the next day. You are keenly observant and quick to tell me I have run a yellow light or that we've taken a wrong turn. You often follow those comments with, "Mommy, maybe you should just let me drive."

Soon enough, sweet boy, soon enough.

This year has also been filled with a quest for knowledge. You are insatiably curious and exceptionally easy to teach. You are like a little sponge that soaks up everything you have ever been told and hold onto it for dear life. You love anything to do with letters, sounds and rhyming and have become quite impressive at reading. One of your favorite things is for me to combine the words you know into silly sentences. You also love to sound out new words and often say things like, "OOH! Look at sneaky E on the end of that word... you can't trick me sneaky E!" However, it drives you nuts when certain words "don't follow the rules!"

You will start preschool two days a week in September and you are very excited at all the possibilities that lie ahead. It was a hard decision to put you in because, selfishly,I will miss you terribly. But, I know that you will love it and it will fulfill that growing desire in you to play with friends and experience the world around you. I can hardly wait to hear all the fun stories you are sure to come home with.
And speaking of September, you are anxiously anticipating becoming a big brother. You are so in love with this little person in my stomach and completely convinced it is your long awaited brother. Boy or girl, this baby is going to be so blessed to have you as their sibling. I have no doubt that you will be fiercely protective and extremely hands on. You have told me on several occasions, "Mommy when our baby comes, you can take longs naps, while I rock him. I can even change all the diapers if you want." Who could pass up that offer?

In truth, Daddy and I are soaking up these last few weeks of having you as our one and only. We can only imagine how incredible it will be to love another life as much as we love you. And to see you love that little one right alongside us is a dream come true.

Some things from the previous years have not changed a bit. You are a Daddy's boy through and through. There is nothing you love more than the special adventures Daddy takes you on every Friday morning. The two of you spend enormous chunks of time together on a regular basis that usually involves being dirty and stinky. Daddy is an amazing teacher and you are learning how to be a man from the greatest one I know. For that, I am eternally thankful.
Baseball and fishing also still rank high among your favorites and the sum of how you spend your time reflects that. Another thing you have come to LOVE this year is racing. You have always loved to run and been exceptionally competitive and the combination of those two ideas has culminated into challenging anyone and everyone you know to a race. Daddy is your favorite competitor and you often tell him in delighted giggles, "You are going DOWN!"
Last but not least, you also LOVE our neighbor's dog, Bella. You frequently visit with her by standing on our retaining wall and hoisting yourself up our fence. I've caught you two in some pretty intense conversations and you've also been known to bring her a treat or two throughout the day.

Park, you are truly a joy to love. You have stretched me, grown me, and because of you I have learned to be a better mother. We continue to pray that God will use you in mighty ways as He molds and shapes you into a man after His own heart. You are a precious gift in our lives and we do not take the responsibility of raising you lightly. Happy Birthday, Parkie Pooh!

Love,
Mommy

Patience is a Virtue

Yes, I am still alive.

My blog, on the other hand, seems to be dying a slow death. The good news is I have a longstanding track record of eventually reviving her. I may desert her unintentionally for a month here or there, but she can always count on me coming back.

Don't you like how I just made my blog female? But if she weren't a girl, she certainly would have gotten fed up with my wordiness a long time ago and found a way to delete my ramblings. Wait- it does seem like there have been some times when I've started writing some post and a mysterious "error" occurs and deletes everything I've spent the last hour sharing. Hmmmm-definitely something to think about.

Moving on.

Remember that calm, sweet baby I raved about carrying last time I posted? Well, it turns out I didn't give him/her enough credit for the punch it can pack. Definitely, not as strong as big brother Park was in the womb, but still enough to keep me on my toes. Regardless, I'm treasuring each (pounding) movement as the days draw closer until we meet face to face.

I'm currently closing in on 35 weeks, which has suddenly brought me to the realization that I actually have to BIRTH this child. If you are one of those precious women who "sneezed" your baby out, I truly am happy for you. But just to be real, after 5 and 1/2 long hours of all natural pushing with Park, all that jazz about "not remembering the pain" definitely does not ring true for me. And although I'm choosing a drug free birth again this time around, 4 years hasn't been long enough to erase some vivid mental images that I'd assume not recall.

God and I have had some serious tutorials on the verse, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

I'm clinging to that one for dear life.

And on another positive note, most of the trauma I remember was not the actual birth, but the postpartum pain. And every loving girlfriend I have has PROMISED me that the second child recovery is night and day better than the first. If they are lying through their teeth, please don't tell me unless you are volunteering to birth my baby.

And if that is the case, I totally accept your offer.

Park is going to make the best big brother. We were in the car the other day when I caught a glimpse of him talking in a low voice and acting something out. When I asked what he was doing he shyly replied that he was practicing shushing his brother and giving him his "pa" (our family love name for pacifier.) "This little guy can get loud, but I have just the right touch," he declared. Clearly, this kid has no confidence.

It truly was so sweet that I decided to just skip over the whole conversation about how it could be a sister. It's like talking to a wall.

But just so I don't paint a skewed picture, I should also mention that as precious as he is, he is still learning that patience is a virtue. (But, then again, who isn't, right?) Chris and I have been discussing with him the importance of waiting on things and not demanding our own way. A few days ago I had a chance to reinforce this lesson when he was waiting by the door for Chris to get home from work.

"Where is Daddy? He's never going to get here and I'm ready to play with him!!! I have been so patient, but this is the slowest family I have ever had!" he exclaimed.

Confused as to what he was referring to, I asked him to clarify and here was his response:

"Well, Daddy's truck is so slow and our baby is taking forever to get here, too. Being patient just makes me tired!!... (thoughtful pause)... But, NOT the kind of tired that means I should go to bed early, though."

I know the feeling, little man, but some things are worth the wait.

And for the record, he was the kind of tired that required an early bed time. Or at least I was the kind of tired that required him to have an early bed time.

(After getting some time to play with daddy, of course:)

Big Shoes

Happy Father's Day, Chris!

I am constantly blown away by what an amazing father you are to Park and can hardly wait to see that same bond develop between you and our newest blessing. Thank you for being a teacher, encourager, provider, investor, role model and so much more.

I adore how you love to spend so much time with Park, constantly shaping the man he will become. Your example as his earthly father is giving him such a clear picture of the love his Heavenly Father has for him. You amaze me more every day.

We love you!

Slip And Slide!

Reading the Signs

Thanks for all the great advice/reassurance about the BH contractions. I had my 24 week check up yesterday and was once again cleared to exercise.

Can't say I'm going to jump right on that, but I'm still thankful for the all clear.

And speaking of being thankful can I just say how much Park and I have been enjoying this beautiful weather?

Two days ago we spent the entire day outside, painting with marbles, sponges, and good old fashioned side walk chalk. There may have been a few (or a hundred) baseball pitches that he required of me, in between activities, as well. That child is so efficient at hitting the ball that there is a strong possibility he could take my head off in the near future.

And today we spent the morning at the playground. He spent some time in the sandbox before we had a picnic and went on a nature scavenger hunt. A while back, Bridget had given me some pictures she had pulled off the Internet of things like a playground, fence, tree, bird, squirrel, and so on. I cut them out and put them on a little ring and Park couldn't have been more thrilled to explore with me until we found each item.

He also discovered something that wasn't on the list.... a huge hill to ride his bike down at breakneck speed while I prayed his training wheels would somehow keep him from bodily injury. If this next baby is cautious, I'm not even sure I will know what to do with that.

In other news, Park has learned to read. Now, if you ask him if he can read he will say, "Well, I can only sound out words, but I still need you to read my books to me." But, the last time I checked, that still counts as reading when you are a three-year-old.

I'm not sure exactly how it came about, but I've known that he has a love for letters for some time now. Last summer we made an alphabet book (a letter of the alphabet on each page and then you cut out things from magazines that start with that letter) and he was quite confident of what items started with which letter.He is constantly asking me what sounds each letter makes and loves when I arrange his fridge alphabet into words.

So, last week I decided to I showed him the word "bat" and asked him how I could change it to "sat". I wasn't sure he would know, but when he handed me the s, we just kept going. Before I knew it, he was reading words like hen, sun, bed, pig, doll and so on.

And at the risk of sounding like a bragging mom, I was amazed that he read "Pass Left" off a sign at the playground today.

Unfortunately, he also screamed this rule to any biker who was trying to get around us on the trail this morning. At least he added please to it, right?

Looks like our next task will be teaching him to read the sign that says: "Caution: Dangerous Hill Ahead."

Birthday Anxiety

I love my birthday.

I always have and probably always will. I've even been known to be pretty obnoxious about it. So, imagine how disheartening it was when Park started showing some resistance to celebrating my big day.

At first, I thought it was a fluke that he would get grumpy when Chris would mention my birthday was just around the corner. But when we were in East Texas last weekend, the extent of his anxiety over my birthday was revealed. Before we left on Sat, my family celebrated my birthday with us a few days early, or at least that was the plan.

However, as Challi gathered up the boys to help her bring out my surprise ice cream cake, Park started to sob uncontrollably. "I don't want Mommy to have a birthday!!! I just want me and Mommy!!!" He could hardly even be bribed with part of the cake. He was equally as distraught opening presents, even though I recruited him to do it for me.

It wasn't pretty. Chris finally had to take him out of the room to discuss how it would hurt Mommy's feelings if he kept this up. He came back in to cuddle in my lap and tell me over and over that he just wanted us to cancel my birthday.

I'm really not exactly sure where this came from, but I know it has something to do with him not liking me being the center of attention. As much as he is a straight up Daddy's boy, he has definitely developed some protectiveness of his mommy. He is very used to sharing Chris at church, seeing him on stage, watching him baptizing, or counseling with others.

But, he is not interested in sharing me with anyone other than Chris and the baby. (And since the baby is not born yet, let's hope he still feels as generous come September:) Anytime I'm on stage, Park has to be taken out. He LOSES it. One time while in the control room with Chris, he just caught a glimpse of me doing announcements for a Women's event and sobbed uncontrollably.

Clearly, my birthday somehow falls into this category.

So, in an effort to get him to enjoy my birthday as much as I do, we let him decide how we would spend it this year. Last night, Chris, Park and I celebrated my birthday at the Ranger's game. After a round of Dip N Dots, some Ranger home run fireworks, and Park getting to take some batting practice, I think he learned to enjoy my birthday as much as I do.

And maybe he gets it from me, after all, because there is no one else I would rather have all to myself than Chris, Park and the little love who kicked in my stomach the entire game. I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend my 32nd birthday!!!

(Well, I didn't exactly tell you the whole story of my big day. But, I'll save the yucky part for tomorrow. Something really scary happened the morning of my birthday, but by God's grace it had a happy ending. We'll just skip over that for now.)

Tonight I get to continue the celebration with a Birthday girl's night out with Bridget and Sarah. And Park doesn't have any reservations over that one since Daddy Night will be in full swing.

How Can I Possibly Give This Randomness a Title?

Since I haven't made much time for blogging lately, I'm feeling overwhelmed by all the stories I want to record. I think I'll just start out by writing random snippets and hopefully end up with some form of a post.

I am halfway through this pregnancy already. How exactly did that happen? This sweet baby is moving all around. Park wants to feel it so badly, but every time he puts his hand to my belly the kicks suddenly stop. When this happens he always says, "Oh, man! God sure gave us a tricky little one!"

Yesterday, he told me,"I really want a brother, but I'll be thankful for whatever God gives us." It's only taken about 20 weeks of work to get him to this point, but just as I was relishing we had finally arrived, he added, "If it is a sister I'll protect her, and if someone is mean to my brother I'll punch 'em in the nose!"

And if you've ever seen his moves, you understand my concern.

I'm not sure if that horrified me more or the fact that Chris answered with, "You got it, buddy!"

On another note, what is up with maternity jeans? I'm still wearing my regular jeans held together with a rubber band because I have yet to find a pair that I could go out in public in. Am I the only one with issues?

And speaking of maternity clothing issues, I pulled out my clothes I wore when pregnant with Park. Can four years really make that much of a difference in style? If I looked as wrong in them then as I do now, someone should have just put me out of my misery. At the rate things are going, What Not To Wear may contact me before this pregnancy is over.

Can I just tell you that despite all my wardrobe malfunctions, not a day goes by that I don't soak up how thankful I am to be pregnant! Based on the time it took to get here, I am painfully aware of how many women are aching to have the opportunity to look dorky in maternity jeans. And I pray that when they are on the other side of their infertility, they will not take for granted what others are so desperately longing for.

I am one of those rare people that LOVE being pregnant. Even with Park, I just enjoyed it right up until the last day. Of course, it helps that I don't really get morning sickness and that my hubby thinks pregnancy is beyond hot. I could do without the whole labor thing, but the actual growing of the baby inside me is something I did not expect to enjoy so much.

And speaking of enjoyment, I can't help but think God must have laughed at Park's prayer tonight. It went like this:

Jesus, thank you for the beautiful sky you gave us tonight. And for cars, and horses, and my socks. Even though they stink. Will you smell my feet and give me something good to eat? I'm hungry, but Mommy said I already had my bedtime snack. Oh and thank you for my Daddy's stinky booty. Please help our baby to be stinky, too, because boys are stinky and I want a boy baby. Amen

What am I going to do with that child?

Captured Memories: The Shoot Out

Well, hello Mr. Blog. It is nice to meet up with you again. It's been quite a while....

One of the things I love about blogging is it is one of those things in life I feel little pressure about, which is probably pretty obvious based on the sporadicness (yes, spell check, I made this one up) of my postings.

Having a blog is so incredible because I am able to do something I love (write), while capturing memories made with the ones I love. Sometimes I get on a roll and record those sweet memories as they happen, and other times I simply enjoy making them, taking snapshots in my mind that can be relayed at a later date.

Either way, this little piece of cyber space is always waiting, ready and willing to oblige me whenever the time comes. And sooner or later, I find myself back here, welcomed as if I were never gone.

No harm no foul, minus a few holes in the archives.

All that to say, thank you for persevering with me as I relay some of those captured memories from the last few weeks over the next few posts.

I'm not sure how it happened, but Park seems to have discovered guns overnight. Although we have no actual toy artillery in our household, EVERYTHING has turned into a weapon of mass destruction.

Fingers, sticks, crayons, bats, and anything else you can think of are cocked and ready to be fired at any given moment of play. And let me not fail to mention the sound effects he has so eloquently mastered.

"POW POW...BOOM...BAM BAM!!!!, " he screams, while taking aim at various items in the living room.

I'm not going to lie, it is obnoxious.

So, as of recent, I've tried some various parenting techniques, such as setting some rules of engagement

Rule #1 We don't shoot living things.

Park's reply: "But Mommy, Uncle Rob shoots deer and elk and hogs. Aren't they alive before he shoots them dead."

Thanks to my hunting loving brother-in law, Rule # 1 had to be modified a bit. Although when I scolded him for this told him this, Uncle Rob was quick to remind me that he shoots with a bow and arrow and not a gun.

Clearly, that made me feel much better, as you can imagine.

Modified Rule #1: We don't shoot people.

Park's reply: "But Mommy, I just shoot bad guys."

I took a deep breath and decided to use this as a teachable moment. Feeling this was a good opportunity to impart some spiritual truth, I discussed with my son that bad guys are really just people who need Jesus.

I explained that God created the world, giving every single person a chance to decide if they will accept or reject Jesus. I ended the impromptu lesson with, "We don't want to shoot them because then they would not have an opportunity to meet Jesus and accept Him into their hearts."

Park looked very impressed for a brief moment just before his little face fell in defeat as he said, "I guess I can only shoot wild animals now."

I smiled, trying not to declare victory until he was well out of the room.

About 2 minutes later, I caught him shooting "bad guys" again. In case you are wondering how I knew this, his celebratory yells of "Yes! I shot him. I shot the bad guy!" clued me in.

He is a sneaky one, I tell you.

I gave him one of my best "didn't I just tell you we don't shoot bad guys?" looks, as I sternly said the obligatory "Park Ryland!"

Beaming proudly, Park replied, "Don't worry Mommy, I asked this bad guy if he wanted to accept Jesus and he said no. So, I shot him."

Oh dear. Not exactly what I had in mind with my little salvation lesson.

Re-Modified Rule #1 We only shoot pretend paintball guns. We are not actually harming anything we shoot, because paint does not hurt.

Especially animals and bad guys.

As for that victorious smile I was wearing? Well, let's just say it is covered in paint.

Suckers and Doppler Drama

Park and Chris came with me to my Dr.'s appointment last week so we could all share in hearing the baby's heart beat for the first time.

Dr. White placed the Doppler on my stomach, after securing his place in Park's heart forever by presenting him with his first lolly pop. While Park chomped away, we anxiously awaited that beautiful sound to fill the room.

And waited, waited, waited, and waited some more.

Finally, he called for the nurse to bring in a different Doppler, all the while assuring me there was nothing to worry about. One of the reasons I chose him as my doctor is his amazing bedside manner. 

I don't care how qualified you are, if you can't treat me like my opinion counts or care about me as a human being, I'm so out of there. Unlike some others I have visited briefly in the past, it is such a blessing that Dr. White is competent, compassionate, and supportive. (Let me show some love here to Sarah and Bridget for insisting that I meet him!)

I was fairly calm even after the second Doppler did not locate the heartbeat. We were moved into a different room to skip on to an ultrasound. But, my calmness turned into pleading prayers when the tech could not find anything after putting the gel on my stomach. I searched Chris' eyes to see if his heart held the fear that mine did, but thankfully I found nothing but calm reassurance.

Well, in all honesty, in that moment it irritated me a bit that he was so peaceful in the middle of such stress. But, as usual, my irritation came more from conviction than anything else. God has given us this little life and instead of panicking, I should have simply rested in His sovereignty and ability to take care of us no matter what. 

Being married to a a man that lives out his faith 24/7 often gives me the opportunity to see which areas I need to grow in. Sigh.

Without hesitation Dr. White stepped out for a moment so the tech could quickly skip to the next type of ultrasound (read between the lines here), and before he could even re-enter the room we were all praising the Lord for the beating heart and fluttering arms on the screen.

I have never been so thrilled and thankful to see someone waving to me in all my life. Park immediately squealed, "It's my brother and he is waving at me!"

(Note to self: Go back over the conversation with Park about how thankful we will be with WHATEVER God gives us, a brother or sister.)

About that time the baby began to suck its' thumb and we all watched in amazement. They explained the reason we had such a hard time hearing the baby's heartbeat is because my uterus is tucked behind my bladder.

Perhaps this accounts for why I visit the restroom 105 times per day?

After reassuring us how healthy and how well this baby is developing, the tech and Dr. White turned off the screen and left the room. Chris, Park, and I celebrated  a bit and then got our things together and headed to the front desk to schedule the next appointment.

About that time, Park said, "I can't wait to come back and get another lolly pop from Dr. White next time! (Decided not to break it to him just then that he won't be joining me for every appt...) Hey, and what was that pink Dr.'s name, Mommy?"

Confused, I answered, "Dr. White?"

"No," he said impatiently, "Not the white doctor, the pink one!"

It took me a minute, but I finally realized that the ultrasound tech was wearing pink. Chris and I got a good laugh out of that one. 

Thank you Dr. White and "Dr. Pink" for your calm spirits, peaceful reassurance, and compassion during a stressful visit.

And of course for the lolly pop, too.

Going Public With Their Face

Lately, we have had some strange happenings in our household.

Every time I walk past our bathtub, there seems to be a new item floating in about an inch deep of water. These items have ranged from a necklace, Park's shoe, my lipstick, stuffed animals, all the way to Chris' car keys.

I felt pretty confident of who the culprit was, but it wasn't until I caught him in the act that I got the full picture of what was really going down.

A few days ago, I turned the corner of my bedroom just in time to hear Park saying these words, as he dunked six plastic monkeys in our bathtub...

"Today we are having a party because you are going public with your face. I baptize you in Jesus' name! Now, hold your nose while I pray for you. Thank you, God, for these monkeys. Please help them not to drown."

Chris has been baptizing after every service for the last few weeks and apparently these celebrations have made quite the impression on sweet Park.

And I have to say it has made a pretty huge one on us, too.

How amazing it is to see people go public with their faith (or as Park so eloquently put it..."face"), as they venture into the next step of their relationship with Christ!

And just to clarify, Chris has not let a single one drown.

Now if only we could say the same for Park....

Rest in peace little plastic monkey, who accidentally slipped down the drain during baptism festivities. At least it wasn't the car keys, though.

Let me introduce you to....

Our little miracle! (and I do mean LITTLE:)
Praising the Lord for a strong flickering heartbeat!

Chris has already declared that the baby looks just like him. Can't you just see the resemblance?

After today, Park, on the other hand, voiced some serious concern.

"Mommy, I'm afraid our baby will come out looking like a peanut. Don't worry, I'll still love him, though. And I'll try not to eat him."

What a great big brother he is going to be!

I claimed this verse when I was believing for our baby, so it is especially sweet to read it now, as I turn in for bed.

(And for those of you still waiting for your miracle, I claim it on your behalf tonight.)

For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!

Psalm 139:13-17

Death Defying Household Chores

Math has never been my forte, but apparently I should have familiarized myself with this little equation pre-Christmas shopping:

2 loads of freshly washed clothes + laundry basket = hours of entertainment.


Who said chores are boring?

Oh, the fun of being a little boy! (Or even just being his mommy)

And speaking of equations, here is another one I learned today:
dirty lens + using camera anyway = pictures with random spots

Sigh.

The Turkey Toddler Trot

For the last few years, our church has run the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. We all wear matching shirts that advertise our service times for Christmas and use the oportunity to invite others to be our guests.

Typically, we've been unable to participate in this event because my entire side of the family heads off to the anual Aggie/T.U. game.

But, this year we will be celebrating Thanksgiving with Chris' family (who live in the area) and that means watch out Turkey Trot, here we come!

Hubs was trying to talk me into running the 10K with him, but then he woke up and remembered who he is married to. Him walking in on my unathletic attempt at Taebo in our living room may or may not have served to jog his memory.

Since then, the word is, "Feel free to walk it at your own pace, sweetheart."

Needless to say, Park is beyond excited about this race. Or, at least he was until I told him there will be a lot of people there and we will need to bring his jogging stroller as a back up plan.

Enter The Great Stroller Strike '08.

According to him, no respectable three-year-old still rides in a stroller for any reason whatsoever. Apparently, that is soooo last year.

So, to prove his capability of running the race to completion, he has been practicing nonstop for the last 2 weeks. Running everywhere we go, he turns back over his shoulder to shout, "See me running this race, Mommy? See how fast I am?? I will WIN that Turkey Trot!"

Perhaps that stroller will come in handy for Park to wheel me across the finish line.

Park's Turkey Trot Countdown Chains!

The Grinch That Stole Daylight AGAIN

Last year around this same time of year, I posted this to vent my frustration with Mr. Daylight Saving Time.

Considering I feel the same disgust this year, I figured re-posting it might make me feel better.

It does.

Thanks for the therapy, Internet.

And thanks to the blogger out there whose post entitled "Can Someone Please Tell My Children the Time Changed" , for confirming to me that I'm not alone in my irritation:)

"Collection Day"

Four years ago, on an election day similar to this, Park was just weeks away from being conceived. Perhaps this accounts for his vast array of political interest at the tender age of three.

Needless to say, he was ecstatic to get to vote with me today.

But, his bubble was burst a bit when we walked into the designated elementary school where our ballot would be cast.

"Where are they?" he asked.

"Who, baby?" I inquired.

"Is that one of them?" he asked loudly, while pointing wildly at an older gentleman.

"Who?" I repeated, quite confused.

"John McCain and Barack Obama!" he exclaimed.

Poor little man was so excited to go vote because he thought we would be meeting the presidential candidates. After stifling my laughter I explained that they were not here, to which he disgustedly responded, "Well, how are we supposed to vote for them if they don't even show up on collection (AKA, Election) day?!"

But, his disappointment was short lived after I let him push the "Cast Vote" button. One look at the American flag waving on the computer screen and he cheered, "We won! We won! I voted all by myself and we won, Mommy!

Apparently, one vote really does make all the difference.

A Hero of a Halloween

It's a bird....It's a plane...No, it's a SUPER HALLOWEEN!

*(In case you are wondering why his cape is maroon, a certain someone had his heart set on being an "Aggie" Superman.)


Happy Halloween, Y'all!