The Mustard Seed

7 Months

2012-02-21T18:43:00.000-06:00

Aubrey Lane, you are SEVEN months (plus a couple days) old! I can’t believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was bringing you home from the hospital. Now here you are, seven months old, and a vital part of our family.

Right now you wear 6-9 months or 9 months clothes, about a size 1 or 2 shoe (tiny fat feet), and I just moved you up to a size 3 diaper. You can still wear a size 2 diaper snuggly, but you were pooping on your clothes everyday, so I went ahead and moved you up to a size 3. (I know you’ll thank me for that last comment when you’re older.) And you have TWO teeth. You are growing so fast. I’m not sure how much you weigh, or how long you are because you haven’t been to the doctor since your 6 month check up. In fact, since you were six weeks old, the only reason you’ve seen a doctor is for a check up.

You are meeting your milestones right on time. You are rolling around everywhere, you started sitting unsupported right after you made 6 months, and you are starting to get down from sitting to play on your belly. You aren’t crawling yet, but you are going backwards in efforts, which totally ticks you off.

You love to play. You play with anything that is put in front of you... any toy, any rattle, a cup, a book, Jude’s iPad, my iPhone, tupperware, really just anything especially Jude. You squeal with delight when he comes anywhere near you. And you want anything we have. If I’m holding you, you try to take anything I have away from me, or you play with my necklace. And if I deny you whatever it is that you want, you throw a temper tantrum.

That’s right! You are already throwing tantrums when you don’t get your way. If I don’t pick you up when you want to be held, or I take something away, you kick and cry. Not spoiled at all! Hmmm

Aubrey Lane, you are turning out to be a good eater. You love your baby food and are almost done with stage 1’s. You spoon feed twice a day; however, you are not interested in it before lunch. I tried to get you on a breakfast/dinner routine, but you refused to eat breakfast. So we do a fruit for lunch and a veggie for dinner. And you HATE rice or oatmeal cereal. If I mix either with your food, you want have anything to do with it. And now you can drink from a sippy cup! Since you wouldn’t take a bottle, I started offering you a Nuby sippy cup, and you LOVE IT! You get water or breast milk in your cup; no juice. We decided that we wouldn’t give you juice until you are one, and even then we may just give you water or milk since you love your water.

All day long, my home is filled with sweet baby babble, and I love it. You are pretty quiet around people, but at home I hear Papa or Dada all day long. You love practicing different sounds, so the past couple of weeks we’ve heard a lot of tongue clicking and other funny noises you make.

You are still very sweet and love to be held. In fact, you have just started reaching for people you want or holding your arms up to be picked up. You are usually very content and smiley. You do very well in the nursery at church, and all the workers comment on how sweet you are. Of course you are still so beautiful. People stop us constantly to comment on how pretty you are and we just beam with pride. Your hair is growing and making you look less and less like a little baby. I think it will be dark and straight like mine.

Thanks, NiNi and Uncle D and Hannah Grace for my

BIIIGGGG Mardi Gras bow!

Our bedroom looks much larger now because we finally put away the bassinet and put you in your crib. You still sleep right through the night and the move didn’t phase you at all. Now, I was sad, but I want you to be in your crib some before we have to lower the mattress, which won’t be long.

I just love you so much, Aubrey Lane. Your accomplishments amaze me. I could sit and just watch you play all day. And I constantly say prayers of thanks that you are such a sweet and good and healthy baby. I hold on to every day for dear life because my time with you and your brother is so precious. On the other hand, I can’t wait to see all the wonderful things you will do in your life. I’ll be there cheering for you all the way!

Watch Me Grow!!

One month

two months

three months

four months

five months

six months

We’re expecting a visit...

2012-02-17T10:40:00.000-06:00

So Cupid has come and gone and the Easter Bunny is on his way, but before he gets here, we are expecting another special guest.

The Tooth Fairy is coming tonight!

That’s right. Jude lost his first tooth last night. We found it wiggly Sunday night.

Lane teared up.

He couldn’t believe that his baby boy is growing up. Neither of us are ready for this stage. You know, that “kid” stage. I’m sure Jude will make this stage of parenting and childhood unique in his own way and that it's going to be a blast!

Well, the next night we decided that the tooth needed to come out before Jude accidentally swallowed it. So fast forward to my best friend behind the camera filming the “big moment”, me holding Jude’s hands, and Lane attempting to pull the tooth. Well after about three takes and a very, very upset Jude, we decided we that it wasn’t ready.

Lane cried again.

So last night, we checked it again, and Lane said it really needed to come out. So one little tug, and out it came.

Then Lane almost cried again.

I announced that the Tooth Fairy requires an invitation, aka lost tooth, 24 hours in advance before making an appearance. She’s a busy girl with a hoppin’ night life. She can’t just drop everything she’s doing at a moment’s notice. (She might not have any quarters on hand... what is the going rate for a tooth these days?)

He’s just as cute with one less tooth.

I warned Lane that this was just the beginning and that we would probably see him without his two front teeth at some point this year. What a sight that will be!

an extra shot

2012-02-14T16:40:00.000-06:00

I know I just posted.. but I thought you could use an extra shot of all the cuteness that is Aubrey Lane..

I could just gobble her up.

I plan to get her picture made in this outfit.. her 6 months picture and she is almost 7 months old... I could drown in guilt

And my cousin made the adorable headband for her. You can check out her stuff at Lou Lou Handmade

I am so in love with this little girl!

My Sweethearts

2012-02-14T16:17:00.001-06:00

Cupid has come and I am in LOVE with these two!

The note was too interesting to look at the camera.

Jude looks like he's proud of Aubrey Lane for finally getting the paper.

These two sweeties are so stinking cute!

I was tagggged!

2012-02-01T16:46:00.004-06:00

I was recently tagged in a blog post by a new bloggy friend to participate in a little "get to know each other" blog game. I normally don't have time to do these, but I'd love to post about anything besides doctors' appointments right now :-(

Anyway, I've been challenged to answer eleven random questions and then tag some of my other bloggy friends to do the same.

Before I get started, I need to share a story about the bloggy friend that tagged me. Her name is Ashlee, from Blessed Chick. After I had Aubrey Lane, my sweet friend Nicole messaged me on Facebook that there was going to be another Aubrey Lane born in Baton Rouge... and her mom blogs. I couldn't believe it! So I jumped right on over to the link she'd left in the message, and met Ashlee who was at the time expecting her Aubrey Lane in October. At the time, her Aubrey Lane was showing some scary stuff on her ultrasounds. Y'all know my history- so naturally my heart went out to her.

It gets weirder...

After I read the blog, I was telling my husband all about it and how we needed to pray for Ashlee and her husband, Christian, and there baby to be. My husband then informs me that he went to Bethany Christian School with Christian, and that he knows him very well. What a small world!

So we made the connection and sparked a bloggy friendship. Hopefully we will get to introduce our Aubrey Lane's to each other one day ;-)

Okay.. let the game begin.

The Rules

1. You must post the rules.

2. Post 11 fun facts about yourself on the blog post.

3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post, and then create 11 new questions to ask the people you've tagged.

4. Tag 11 people and link them on your post

5. Let them know you've tagged them!

Eleven {11} Fun? Facts About Me
1. I'm nerdy and I love soundtrack music.

2. Besides the soundtrack music, I have a secret obsession with rap and R&B. I <3 Lil Wayne, but I NEVER EVER listen to him because my kids are always in the car.

3. I am TERRIFIED of bad weather! It thunders and my hair stands on end.

4. I am not a pet person. I like other people's pets, but I don't want a dog, cat, hamster, or even a goldfish. But I like farm animals- they're okay.

5. I am completely addicted to Coca Cola. Therefore, we never buy it. It only comes in the house as a treat in a single serving size.

6. I LOVE to bake and I'm good at it, but I'm not a sweets eater that much. I'd rather have something like boiled peanuts to snack on.

7. I believe that everyone has a natural God given talent or just something that they are really good at like singing, drawing, cooking, a sport, etc. I'm still looking for mine.

8. I am a germaphobe.

9. I love to BOWL and I totally stink at it. I do good to break 100.

10. I am not athletic AT ALL. I don't know how to hit, throw, or catch a ball, and I don't care to learn either. I do like to hit some golfballs, though.

11. I love to eat at Sammy's Grill. I would eat there everyday if I could afford it.

ANSWERS TO HER QUESTIONS

1. What are your biggest pet peeves, not including traffic issues?

I can't stand it that people bite their fingernails. (I didn't say fingernail biters- I'm married to one) It's a nasty habit and I'm kind of a germaphobe. It also drives me crazy when people wear shoes in my house. I have a four year old that doesn't walk and plays on the floor. Most people who come over often know that, but some don't and I'm not always assertive enough to ask. My fault.

2. If you could take an all-expense paid vacation, where would you and who would you take with you?

Where do I start? I have always wanted to go on an African safari. Always! I'd also love to go to Portugal and Greece- just somewhere in the Mediterranean. As far as homeland soil, I've been begging Lane to take me to New York since we've met. I want to go somewhere and see something that will make me say WOW! I love my kids, but I would take Lane and Lane alone! We haven't had a night alone since we brought Jude home from the hospital over four years ago. Please don't hate, but I'd like to feel a little more like a wife and a little less like a mom for just one day.

3. If you could do anything you want for your next birthday, what would you do? (Money is no object and everything is okay to eat)

I would go on a shopping spree and get a WHOLE NEW WARDROBE! My body is not the same after having baby #2 and I only have about 5 things in my closet I can wear. J. Crew and Anthropology would be my first two stops!

4. What is your favorite play or musical?

Oh.. geez. I just love live performances. Sadly, I don't have a lot of time or babysitters to see them. The last thing I saw that would come close to counting was A Christmas Carol at Silver Dollar City. I cried all the way through Tiny Tim singing "God Made Me Special", for obvious reasons.

5. What is the biggest lesson you have learned in life?

To live in the moment and trust in the Lord for all things. I know, so cliché right? But raising Jude has forced me to do so. The past breaks my heart, the future scares me to death, but right now is wonderful!

6. What is your favorite recipe? (link please)

I love to make any type of seafood dish. My favorite is Paula Deen's Shrimp Creole, and you can make it by clicking here.

7. What is the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?

I read The Help. It was awesome, much better than the movie.

8. Who is your favorite author or speaker?

I fell in love with Priscilla Shirer during bible study last year. She is AMAZING and I'd love to go to one of her conferences.

9. Which bloggy friends to you hope to meet in real life?

I have a list.. (I'm not going to put a link, but they are all to the right, so go check them out if you haven't already)

Kellie at Nest of Posies

Cha Cha at The Heartfelt Home

Sibi at Pearls and Grace

Jillian at Teenage Bride

Lizzie from My List Becomes His List

Shaundra at Loo-la-bee Simplicity

Heather from The Other White House

Amy from All Things Home

These women are all awesome bloggers and welcomed me like the new kid at school when I got started. They also encouraged me and prayed for me regularly throughout my pregnancy and I wish I could hug each and everyone of them and tell them thank you!

10. What is your nervous habit?

I tend to chew on my bottom lip when I'm nervous.

11. What do you hope will happen in 2012?

I hope we get to buy some land and start making serious plans to build a house.

Now I don't know if any of my bloggy friends will do this because I know everyone is really busy, but here are my chosen:
Sarah at Happy Hodges
Rachel at The Unglesby Family
Jillian at The Teenage Bride
Amy at Cocalico Country
Lou Lou at Lou Lou's Life
Kayla at And Potato Makes Three
Lizzie at MY LIST BECOMES HIS LIST
Nicole at the3magills
Jenn at LSU Lovers
Shaundra at Loo-La-Bee Simplicity
Taryn at No Such Thing as "Normal"

Questions for the "CHOSEN"
1. What is your favorite clothing store or boutique?
2. What is your favorite restaurant, and what do you usually order there?
3. What is the last bible study you have participated in, and did you like it?
4. Do you have children? If so where do you like to shop for them?
5. What is your favorite blog? (link please)
6. What magazine is a "must read" for you?
7. What is one thing that you could not live without. (other than the obvious: Jesus, hubby, kids, pets)
8. Where is your favorite vacation spot, or where are you currently planning a vacation to?
9. Is there a particular Presidential candidate you're leaning towards and why?
10. What do you think your natural God-given talent is?
11. What is something you do everyday and you love doing?

Well, it's been fun!

Better Today

2012-01-31T21:35:00.001-06:00

Hey y'all! Thanks for all the encouragement and sweet words yesterday. We are feeling much better today.

Mr. Lane took off work today so that he could go to New Orleans with us for Jude's neurologist appointment. We reached Children's and I spoke with the nurse about everything Jude is doing now. I was very anxious and a little downhearted because I was afraid that Jude's development, or lack there of, would be dissappointing to the doctor. Well the nurse noticed my anxiety and asked if I was worried about something. And I told her that I was afraid that Jude's development had plateaued. She gave me an exaggerated "NO" and told me that according to his chart, he's made lots of improvements.

Whew!

Praise the LORD!

Then the dr came in and examined Jude. She picked Jude up and made him walk across the room. She got so excited and said that Jude was going to walk and probably within the year. NEVER had a dr tell me that! So exciting! BUT... I know Jude, and he's not gonna walk until Jude's ready. And I'm okay with that.

Other than that everything looked great. We are going back in February for a hearing test under general anesthesia so the dr ordered an MRI to check Jude's spine. He has a sacrel dimple so she just wants to make sure his spinal cord isn't tethered. (that the nerves are not attached to the base of the spine).

She also thinks that Jude can come off his meds to control his intercranial pressure. Yay to that.

Lane treated me to a visit to Pottery Barn Kids since we were already in NOLA and I had a gift card. There were too many cute things there and temptation everywhere. So I decided on something simple and I broke down and bought Aubrey Lane a Sophie giraffe. It cost me a whole penny after the gift card. She loves it!! I'd gladly pay full price for it.

We had a good day!

Just Breath

2012-01-30T22:07:00.002-06:00

I went into Jude's appointment today with no real stresses (first clue that bad news was lurking). I felt confident in the appointment. I felt like the worst the doctor could tell me was that Jude had not improved and we would stay on the oxygen for another year, and I was okay with that. I was not, however, prepared to hear that not only did Jude not improve his sleep, but that it had gotten significantly worse.

I sat in the office kind of stunned as I heard that Jude obstructed his sleep 75 times. The last time was around 43 I believe. This dropped Jude from the mild to moderate category all the way to borderline severe. He even discussed the option of putting Jude on a C-PAP machine at night, but both of us agreed that he would never wear it.

The doctor also ordered an x-ray of his head and neck. He wants to see if his adenoids have grown back or he has inflammation that could be obstructing his sleep. He said his tonsils could also play a roll, but he felt like Jude's facial structure was his biggest problem. However, we are not on board with a very invasive facial reconstructive surgery at this point.

The doctor also mentioned doing another bronchoscopy to see if Jude's airway is inflamed again. And that maybe we should repeat his allergy testing. Then he talked about getting off the oxygen in Jude's teen years. My heart sank. It's completely sunken now writing this post to be honest.

As I sat there with this giant lump in my throat, the bad news kept on coming... the doctor gave Jude yet another diagnosis to add to the list.

Dr. T diagnosed Jude with Restless Leg Syndrome. He said that Jude not only set the record for most limb movements during a sleep study, but he doubled it. Jude had 932 limb movements during the test! And to add to the matters, Jude's heart meds, you know the ones that give him nightmares, are playing a big part in all of this.

So now we are going from seeing the pulmonary specialist about twice a year, to seeing him every two months.

I did a pretty good job holding it together until I was leaving the lab and the admit clerk told me how big Jude was getting and that she couldn't believe how big the baby is already.

It was the straw that broke the camel's back.

Although the clerk was very nice, I don't want to be on a first name basis with the admit clerk at Our Lady of the Lake.

Reality swallowed up my heart and weighed it down even further. I cried all the way to the car. But once I had my little cry, I was fine. I'm still a little down, but not a mess or anything.

God's timing is just something else, I'll tell ya.

Yesterday, I worked in the nursery so Lane gave me a run down of the Sunday School lesson and the sermon.

Lane told me that the lesson in Sunday school was out of Daniel, and that he had a scripture that spoke to him and wanted to share it with me.

"If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

Daniel 3:17,18

He teared up as he explained why the passage spoke to him. He said "God WILL deliver us out of our worries with Jude, and that He will deliver Jude from his medical problems. And God will get us through this rough patch right now. But even if He doesn't, we are still going to serve Him because He is our mighty God."

I don't think I need to say anything else.

a LOT going on

2012-01-30T11:57:00.000-06:00

So..

We have A LOT going on right now. So just prepare yourself; this will not, by any means, be the shortest post in my blog history.

Where to start??

I guess where we left off... last Thursday for Aubrey Lane’s six month birthday.

That afternoon, after Aubrey’s well baby visit, Jude had his regular homebound school session at Bellingrath Hills Elementary. (I have no clue WHY that neighborhood is called Bellingrath Hills. There is not one hill anywhere in or around Central.) Anyway, we also had his IEP meeting that afternoon as well. It was easy last year, but for some reason, I was nervous for it this year. We discussed goals for Jude and new plans. We decided that since he will be going to preschool there next year, that we should work him into longer times at the school. So, instead of Jude going to BHE a for couple of hours on Thursday, he will now go to school from 10-3.

I was so excited that Jude was going to get more school time, but I can’t lie. Part of me wanted to just scoop him up and walk right out the door with him. Not that there was anything wrong- everyone at BHE is WONDERFUL! It’s just scary. I spent the last 4 years taking care of Jude and not trusting too many other people to do so. I mean we have never even hired a babysitter before. Only his grandmothers have ever keep him, and one of his aunts has kept him twice. So to ask me to leave my baby for 5 hours is a lot.

Well we started this past Thursday with his new schedule. I did stay half the day with him, but not because I was being a weenie, but to fill out some paperwork and teach them how to feed him at lunch. (Did I mention Jude is eating again??)

They bring him to class and to the the cafeteria in a wagon. I managed to capture a couple of pictures. I was happy about this because I did not want to put him in a wheelchair because I KNOW MY BABY WILL WALK ONE DAY just like I KNOW HE WILL EAT ONE DAY TOO!!!

Overall, Jude had a very good day. It helps that he absolutely loves school. He starts yelling and clapping his hands when we pull into the parking spot.

Jude also started school back at LSU this week too! Hard to believe he’s been there for a year now. Seems like just yesterday I was sharing the news that Jude got into the program. So Jude’s got quite the busy schedule this year.

This week will also be a tough week. Along with our already busy schedule, Jude has an appointment with pulmonary to get the results of his sleep study TODAY!!! PRAYING that Jude can finally come off the oxygen at night. Then we have to go see his neurologist at Children’s Hospital tomorrow. These visits are always so stressful for me!

We haven’t been all work and no play around here.

Last week, we got to celebrate our best friends’ daughter’s, Hannah Grace, 2nd birthday. She had a Very Hungry Caterpillar party. Her mom and I share the same brain waves, I think. Anyway, HG has a baby cousin named Grayson Lane that was born about 2 weeks before Aubrey was. (we are friends with his parents too) Grayson Lane and Aubrey Lane had the exact same color on (completely random) so we had to get pictures of them together. Aren’t they adorable?! Did I mention that Grayson Lane and Aubrey Lane also have the same last name.... talk about your alliteration.

Aubrey Lane started on solids last week as well. It was miserable at first, but now she really enjoys eating and she actually eats almost the whole jar! We are doing veggies first, then we’ll do fruits. So far, she’s not a fan of peas, but she LOVES carrots.

Aubrey Lane also started sitting up last week. So now all she wants to do is sit and play with her toys.

Her little personality is starting to really develop. Right now she seems very confident in everything and not shy at all. She is absolutely infatuated with Jude, and he is amazingly careful and gentle with her. They can even snuggle now! CARAZY!

Despite his rigorous schedule, Jude is having fun too. Our disability ministry at our church is really starting to bloom, and our family is definitely blessed. Jude now has a shadow for Sunday School and Children’s Church. Last week, his Aunt Wendy was his shadow and she sent me pictures of him participating in story time. It really blessed me; I’m tearing up just typing about it. I can’t tell you how much it means to me to see Jude participate and a normal activity with his peers. It’s beyond words!! And the way his friends actually love him back? It’s awesome! It’s beautiful- to see the body of Christ being restored completely and naturally at such a young age- it’s truly beautiful.

That's all for now... finally!!

Please say a prayer for Jude today!!

The Pursuit of Jonah

2012-01-29T13:24:00.003-06:00

Over the past few years, I have learned that everything is bigger in Texas through my sweet friend, Darla. Her smile, her laugh, her kindness and compassion, her spirit and her heart are about the biggest they come. Her friendship has blessed me beyond measure. It is truly that of divine appointment.

I could sing her praises all day long, but I need to get to the point.

Darla's son and daughter-in-law have been beautiful examples of being obedient in the Lord's plans for their lives. They were called to adopt a child, and God has shown His favor! They have met their son Jonah in Russia and are completely in love with him.

Their story is beautiful, but it's not mine to tell. You can read all about it at
thepursuitofjonah.blogspot.com

The purpose of this post is for a prayer request. Due to past abuse of adopted Russian babies, they have instated a 30 day waiting period before you can bring your baby home. They met him a couple months ago and have been just waiting for a court date. Could you imagine having to leave your baby in another country for 30 days??

Well they are in Russia right now. At midnight, our time, they will stand before a judge and beg him to waive the waiting period so they can bring their baby home.

Will you please pray for them? We serve a mighty God that can easily soften this judge's heart. However, His will is perfect so even if the request is denied, our God is still mighty!!

Angel

Only 3 left...

2012-01-27T14:38:00.000-06:00

The last time I restocked the diapers in Aubrey Lane’s bassinet, I promised Lane that as soon as these diapers are gone that I would move Aubrey Lane into her crib in the nursery.

Well, this morning I went to change her diaper when I realized that she only has three diapers left in her diaper stack.

I know she is six months old, but I’m just not sure that I’m ready for her to move out of our room.

And I know that I am being ridiculous about this... She has her own changing table that she’s used only three times and a crib she has slept in twice. And I don’t have any excuses or reasons for keeping her in our room since she sleeps through the night.

I just can’t believe my baby is growing up so fast.

When did you move your baby into the crib?

SIX. WHOLE. MONTHS.

2012-01-19T21:50:00.000-06:00

Well... I can't believe I'm about to say this so soon, but, Aubrey Lane, you are six months old today! Although it seems like just yesterday that I was introducing a tiny little newborn with a pink bow to the rest of my family, I couldn't imagine life without you!

We took you to the pediatrician today for your six month well baby visit, and she says your still pretty perfect. You weigh 15 pounds and 7 ounces and are 26 inches long. You can wear 6 months clothes perfectly and even fit into a good bit of 9 months clothes. Your feet are tiny and you still wear a size 1 shoe. You still wear a size 2 diaper.

Your weight and height have flip flopped. The last time you were weighed, you were just below the 75th percentile and your height was just below the 50th. Today, your height was around the 65th percentile and your weight was just below the 50th percentile. Your thighs are still a little chunky and cute.

You are meeting all your milestones right on time. Just a couple days after you made five months, you started rolling over onto your belly, and since you roll constantly. You are not sitting by yourself, but you are so close- maybe a week away at the most.

You also just cut your first tooth. I literally prayed and asked God to let your teeth take their time coming in. I feel He answered my prayers because your brother cut his first tooth at 4 months! Your Papa cried and said we definitely have to have another baby. Fine by me ;-)

Aubrey Lane, you are so funny. You have found your little voice and you love to play with it all the time. You have starting imitating sounds and silly noises. You babble "dadadada" and "papapapa" constantly. You love to play in your jumper and love to roll around on your playmat. You have found your feet and pull your socks off as soon as I get them on- just like your brother. Speaking of Jude, you LOVE your brother. You watch his every move and squeal in delight when he gets close to you. He is very sweet and surprisingly gentle to you. You haven't shown any stranger anxiety yet, but you still cry until someone gives you to your mommy.

Aubrey girl, you are one heck of a nurser. It's your absolute favorite thing to do. You still don't take bottles; however, when we got home tonight, you were so tired and hungry I decided to offer you a bottle to see if you were willing to fight the difference. You GULPED that bottle right down like you've never had anything else. I got so excited, because now I know you will take a bottle if you are hungry enough.

You still don't care much for cereal. Your doctor told me, today, that you can finally start baby foods. (Your pediatrician doesn't like her nursing babies to start baby food until six months.) So we are starting you tomorrow with carrots. I was going to start you tonight, but we had a meeting at school for Jude this afternoon then grocery shopping this evening so you were way too tired to try a new food.

You still sleep in your bassinet. I put you in your room for one night, and I cried... so the next night you went back to the bassinet. But I'm going to try to be brave and let you start sleeping in your crib before I have to turn it into a toddler bed ;-) You still sleep through the night; however, lately you have gotten up around 4:30 to eat. You still take about 3 good naps a day. We have discovered that you cannot and will not sleep without a blanket.

You are still so beautiful, of course. I am pretty sure at this point that your eyes are going to stay the same gray blue as your papa's. Your hair is starting to grow, finally, and it's nice and dark. Your cheeks are still sweet and pink and always chapped. I am constantly smearing Aquaphor or Vaseline on them. You get complimented on your calm and sweet disposition everywhere we go. Your Papa says you are just quietly curious.

You still LOVE your bath times and are about to grow out of your infant tub. Just look how much you've grown, my bathing beauty.

3 days old

about 3 months old

six months old

There are so many unique and beautiful things about you and your personality that I could write about them all night long, but I need to put you to sleep. So I'm just going to leave with some pictures of you on your half birthday.

I love you, my sweet pea!
Mommy

at the doctor today... you thought your image in the mirror was very fascinating

I always love this dress on you!

you were not a happy camper for your pictures

"The LORD bless thee and keep thee; the LORD make his face shine upon thee and be gracious to thee; the LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
Numbers 6:24-26

STOP THE LOOP!!!

2012-01-18T11:27:00.003-06:00

This blog post is for my local friends.

As you know, we are in what seems to be a never ending battle about the proposed loop that will cut around Baton Rouge, but cut right through Central and other rural communities around the city of Baton Rouge.

In my opinion, the whole loop is absurd. Yes the traffic in Baton Rouge is a little crazy, but that's one reason why the majority of us don't live in Baton Rouge. Now, to fix their traffic problem, they want to put an interstate in our backyards.

And let's get real. Baton Rouge has grown, but we are no Houston. This loop would be a silly waste of money, and we, the taxpayers, the people against the loop, will end up footing the bill. I've heard that it's going to be a tolled loop to help cover the expenses, but how many local commuters (which, my guess, makes up a lot of BR's traffic) are going to take a loop out of their way and pay a toll for it?

Regardless, I do not want the loop cutting through our beautiful city of Central. I was not born and raised here, but it is my home now and it is where my children were born and where they will be raised.

There is an online petition that you can sign to show that the community of Central is against the proposed loop.

Please take the time to click on the link below and sign it. And, please, there is a quickly approaching deadline. Please sign quickly!

Click on

Say NO Petition
and sign the petition!

Thank you!!

I'll take 20!

2012-01-16T16:51:00.003-06:00

I need to give a big shout out to all my praying friends and family. I got so many responses from you, all promising to pray for my Jude and our family. A few of you even offered dinner. I am overwhelmed by all of your love!

I can't say that Jude woke up this morning feeling 110% better this morning. It was more like 20%, but hey, I'll take 20! Some improvement is better than no improvement. Plus I know he will be even better tomorrow. Still the same, I just cancelled his therapy appointments for tomorrow because I know he is pretty weak and don't want to hinder his healing process.

He was a little bit more comfortable today and not crying constantly. He tolerated his feeds better, but shows no interest in eating by mouth. Totally expected but a little worrisome. I just pray he retains the progress he made with eating before he got so darn sick.

"Papa" came in from work about an hour ago and has been pulling Jude around the property in the wagon. Jude was set up! He had his pillow pet and his blankie in the wagon with him. We even got a couple smiles as he got in the wagon. The wagon ride is good for him because the bumps and vibrations work like a vibrating vest to help break up some of the congestion in his chest. Plus, Jude just loves being outside, so this is really good for him! And our hearts needed to see a smile. For those of you that don't know Jude, he is always extremely happy and all smiles. So when he goes for days without a smile, I realize how much I depend on them everyday.

Another answered prayer:

Lane's work announced today that starting next week they should have enough work to go back to 40 hours! And when all the materials for the projects come in, they should even have some overtime! This is such good news. Praise the Lord for all His blessings! So for now we gonna just enjoy these mini at home vacations.

As my father-in-law ALWAYS quotes

"... I have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging for bread."

Psalm 37:25

I did some bloggy updating today. Whatcha think? I can't promise that it will stay this way for long, but I was a little bored with what was up there. I can't wait until Aubrey Lane is sitting up better and we can update our picture on the pier for the blog.

What a Weekend..

2012-01-15T21:15:00.002-06:00

You know how our weekend started... with a very sick redhead.

Well, I wish I could say that when Jude woke up Saturday morning, he felt much better, but... I can't. In fact it was quite the opposite story. He finally went to sleep Friday night, but we were at Lane's parents' house. So when we left to go home, he woke back up and cried until after 5am! But it didn't last long. At 7:30 he was up and crying again. It was HELL!!

I also wish that I could say Sunday was better, but it wasn't. He was just as miserable all day.

Jude has been so congested. He has coughed and sneezed and vomited and ran fever all weekend. We keep Pedialyte, vicks vapor rub, and Mucinex ready on the kitchen table. We have washed sheets, blankets, and towels in super hot water countless times.

We have tried a few tricks to distract him from his discomfort. We went for a drive; he loves car rides. We took a stroller ride; he loves those too. And we've given him warm baths around the clock because those always brighten his spirits.

We even tried the baby swing as kind of a joke.

It actually worked for a few minutes, and he quit fussing. But the swing looked like it was about to give out so we couldn't entertain the idea any longer. Speaking of ideas- a swing like this made for bigger kids? Hello! I would totally buy that just to use for moments like these.

I read that for severe bronchial congestion, being outdoors and in some sunlight is very helpful. So Lane took Jude for a wagon ride this afternoon.

Aubrey Lane and I joined them.

It helped but not for long. Thank goodness he's sleeping right now. Something about him sleeping so peacefully gives me a great sense of relief.

I keep praying that tomorrow will be much much better since Lane goes back to work, and I have started feeling bad myself. Lane has been awesome this weekend taking care of Jude around the clock.

Last night while everyone was sleeping, I had the sniffles and couldn't sleep. So, I finally got a chance to get a few projects finished; some very pretty chenille bibs. I saw some in a boutique and thought 'I can make those'. So Lane drew me a pattern from my description to practice with (I'm can't even draw stick figures), and the finished product came out so cute!

Here is Aubrey Lane wearing one of them. (They are cute, but she is so much cuter.)

I've got some more cute ones on my Facebook page. You can get a peek by going to The Mustard Seed Boutique. And I'll be listing some in my Etsy shop soon too. I'll post a link for that when I do.

I've teetered back in forth with the idea of making a little business out of my work. I've had so many distractions; a new baby, adjusting to life with two kids, Jude's super crazy preschool and therapy schedule, and an incredibly busy Christmas, blah blah blah. Well I've decided make a little business out of it, but a little differently. Instead of taking a hundred custom orders and trying to round up materials and taking a loss in the end, I'm going to just list items I have available and fabrics I can use for them. We'll see how it goes. I hope it does well because I could use the little extra income right now.

That leads me into something a little more serious. You remember my unspoken prayer request from Friday? Well it's time to make it "spoken". I've realized there is no shame in it, my family didn't do anything wrong, and well we could use the prayers.

Around Thanksgiving, projects at Lane's work were very slow so the company cut everyone down to 32 hours a week through the holidays. Not awful, just very awful timing. We didn't panic because we were sure work would pick up soon. Well this past Monday, his company cut everyone even further down to 24 HOURS A WEEK!! We are a super budgeted, one income family so this isn't great news. But it wouldn't be good news for anyone. I'm not worried about finances. I'm sure the Lord will provide. HE always does!! However, I do feel a loss of security in his current employer. I am afraid that work will not pick back up and if it does, will this happen again and how often? So we are just asking for God's guidance in this area in our lives right now. Thank you so much for praying for us!

Well that's all for now. I really hope I can write a blog post tomorrow telling you that Jude is 110% better!

Hope y'all have a good week!
Angel

Sinus Infection, Fever, and a Tooth

2012-01-13T21:29:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all.

We are having a typical January weekend… taking care of a sick redhead.

We spent this morning in the pediatrician office. It's only a sinus infection, but he is nothing short of completely miserable. He's running fever and his secretions are making him sick to his stomach, so we've been rocking and singing all day. Please say a prayer for him. He has been crying for the past three hours.

Aubrey Lane hasn't shown any signs of being sick; only a little runny nose. But she does have something else...

Aubrey Lane has cut her FIRST TOOTH!

I can't believe how big my baby is getting. It's very exciting, but sad at the same time. I am going to take a lot of pictures over the next few days. These are the last times I'll ever see her with that little toothless, gummy grin.

Also, I have a unspoken prayer request for our family. We are facing some issues that I can't openly discuss.

Well I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Angel

Up To Speed

2012-01-05T12:43:00.000-06:00

Now that I have officially moved into the 2012 on the blog, I need to get y'all "Up to Speed" on Jude Dude and Sweet Pea.

First of all, we had Aubrey Lane's hearing checked before Christmas and no problems were found. She'll have to have her hearing checked about every six months until she's about five or six just for precaution.

She also made five months the week of Christmas, but I have shamefully been to busy to do a post about it. She is doing all kind of fun things: babbling, rolling over, trying to sit up, standing and jumping, laughing and squealing, razzing, and just being a little love bug. We started her on cereal and introduced the cup... umm that hasn't been so fun, but she'll get it.

Onto the Jude Dude- he had a sleep study last week. We will find out the results of it in the next month or so. We are praying that Jude can finally come off the night time oxygen. Do you know how wonderful it would be to go somewhere without oxygen concentrators or tanks??

Yesterday, Jude saw his GI specialist and we adjusted his tube feedings again. He has been doing significantly better with his eating- although, we have had to bribe him with bubbles. We are claiming now, that Jude will be completely independent from the use of his tube in 2012! I can and will happen!

And Jude starts school back this month. WOOHOO! I know that sounds mean but any mom of a very active and attached four year old can understand this. I'm not saying that I want to get rid of him; he just requires a lot, I mean a whole lot of attention lately and gets pretty bratty when we don't stop everything we're doing for him. ;-) Typical four year old, eh?

Well, I think that's it for now!

Hope you are having a great New Year!

2011 Blog Review

2012-01-05T11:05:00.000-06:00

I meant to do this before the end of the year, but I have been terribly busy. So busy that I didn't even get a chance to finish my Twelve Days of Christmas blog series... oh well.

Anyway, I thought I'd give 2011 one more look before we move on to 2012. So here are some blog highlights from the past year.

(You can click on each post to read it)

We started the year about 10 weeks pregnant, very very sick, and in constant prayer over our Sweet Pea.

In the middle of January we got some great news from Jude's cardiologist. It was a wonderful way to start the year off.

News Worth Sharing

I wrote a letter of promise and prayer to my sweet baby. It's funny to think how much I thought I loved her then and how immeasurable my love is for her now.

Precious Baby

We made it into the 2nd Trimester and God continued to give us grace.

His ways are good and He is kind

February started with an ambulance ride to The Lake as Jude became extremely ill with RSV. It was the most terrified I have ever been, but God remained faithful and prayers were answered around the clock.

Updates and Prayer Requests

After Jude got home and did some recovering, he started preschool at LSU on Valentine's Day. Lane took off early so he could pick him up from his first day of preschool and go to a Sweet Pea check up. It was a day full of tears, but good ones.

My Valentine Goes to Preschool

Then... Spring arrived! AHHHH! SPRING!!

We started March off with a visit to pediatric cardiology- this time to take a look at Sweet Pea's heart. Our own hearts leaped when we heard that her's was just fine.

today

The next week was another stressful doctors visit. We went for Sweet Pea's biophyiscal where we would get the best idea if she would have any chromosome abnormality. It was a wonderful day as we got to see our sweet baby and here everything looked perfect.

BIG news for a BIG day

Then the next week, we saw Maternal Fetal Medicine where we just received a confirmation that Sweet Pea was perfect.

Confirmation

March was pretty busy!!

In April the nesting began and our dining nook got a little makeover.

Cabinet Makeover

I made it into my Third Trimester.

Hello Third Trimester

I turned THIRTY! WOW!

THIRTY

And we celebrated Easter and colored eggs with our sweet redhead.

Easter Eggs

In May we celebrated Mother's Day in the ER again... we took a trip to the Audubon Zoo with our best friends and their daughter, I got my monogram machine and started sewing away, Jude got moved into a toddler bed, we celebrated Lane's birthday, and Jude had his adenoids removed.

Looks like May was super busy too and you can read all about it by clicking below...

May

Summer arrived with June and we had some fun in the sun with a little kiddie pool and a trip to Biloxi.

Beatin' the Heat

and

A Babymoon

Jude started CRAWLING!

The Bunny Hop

My sister-in-laws and friends threw me a baby sprinkle.

Sprinkle

And our faith was tested.

The other shoe finally dropped

In July we welcomed a daughter into our family

and you met Sweet Pea.

Meet Sweet Pea

(this post is my most viewed post of all time even today)

We named our miracle Aubrey Lane and shared a very sweet video of her birth.

Miracle of Life

Life slowed down a little bit in August. Thank goodness. We just settled into life with a new baby until a hospital stay briefly interrupted things. We also shared some of Aubrey Lane's newborn pictures.

August

September stayed slow. Jude started back to school and life became a new normal for our family. And I did some dreaming of what heaven has in store for our family.

Where are your treasures stored?

In October our sweet redhead turned FOUR! And our Aubrey Lane was already 3 months old. We dedicated her to raise in a Christian home to love Christ and celebrated Jude's birthday party all in the same day.

Dedicated and Celebrated

November was pleasantly uneventful!

With December came a wonderful and busy Christmas season. We welcomed Wilbur, our Elf on the Shelf, and took pictures with Santa at Bass Pro. (I know it might be a sin to say as a Southerner, but I HATE Bass Pro so taking the kids to see Santa was what I did to past the time while my husband shopped) We had our Christmas musical and our candlelight service. And celebrated Christmas for THREE days with family.

We also enjoyed a new tradition as Lane played and sang Christmas carols to the babies Christmas night.

We finished up the year with a bonfire at home with family. We try to do this every year that it's not raining. It's so nice to celebrate New Year's Eve at home with my babies in their own bed and off the roads.

2011 was a fantastic year! I was kinda sad to see it go, but I love fresh starts.

"From the fullness of His grace, we have all received one blessing after another."

John 1:16

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 9: The Note

2011-12-21T22:12:00.004-06:00

Do you remember what you got for Christmas from your husband last year?

Think about it...

I remember... he got me a pair of beautiful pearl earrings. I was so surprised. I had really wanted a pair of real pearl earrings for awhile, but hated to ask for them. There is something so timeless about a pair of pearls. Every Southern Belle needs a pair. (We actually plan on getting Aubrey Lane a tiny set of pearl earrings for her first birthday.) The sad part of this- I wear these pearl earrings almost everyday, and I still had to stop and really think about what Lane had given me for Christmas last year.

Well this Christmas, money is way tight. It was just an expensive year for us. Private preschool, a new baby with new baby needs, a ridiculous gas bill (can I get an Amen)- all for a family spoiled by overtime pay. And with the economy being so shaky, Lane is not even getting 40 hours a week. Don’t get me wrong; we are by no means starving or doing without, we have just had to buy needed, not wanted, gifts for Christmas. But truly we don’t NEED anything. ;-)

(I debated even talking about this, but if I make this blog out like I’m some perfect person with this perfect life, I’d be down right lying! I want my blog to be “real”, ya know.)

Yesterday, I got a sweet reminder that loving each other and simple acts of kindness throughout the year is the greatest gift we can give one another.

When I got home yesterday, I found a note from my husband in the door.

"I got a surprise for you! Check the sewing room!"

"Keep looking! Try the junk food cabinet!"

"Not here! Turn around & check the ice box!"

"Happy I Love You Day! Here's a gift from me to you!

I love you!"

He bought me a fountain drink. (I’m quite addicted to carbonated beverages.)

This year we may not have a lot of money to buy a lot of Christmas presents we don’t need. But I guarantee you that 10 years from now I will still remember this very sweet sentiment. I’m currently brainstorming ideas to return this sweet gesture.

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 6, 7, & 8: A Christmas Collage

2011-12-20T21:11:00.001-06:00

Okay.. I apologize for slacking on my blog series. I have been unbelievably busy the past few days.

Honestly, I feel a little guilty for actually sitting down with my laptop to write a blog post.

Since I missed a few days, I'm just going to do a little "Christmas Collage" to catch up and actually finish on Christmas Eve now.

Day Six: Christmas Card

So I love sending Christmas cards. And I LOVE receiving Christmas cards in the mail. To look over and see my Christmas tree full of Christmas cards sent to me from my next door neighbor, an old friend in Tennessee, a beloved family member, or even a bloggy friend in Maryland just makes my heart happy.

(Rabbit trail: I don't think that we send actual mail, snail mail- you know the stamped kind, enough anymore. It's such a sweet surprise to see a note in the mail from a friend and not just a bill or sale paper. I'm going to try to send more mail this year.)

I usually plan the Christmas card in advance, but this year, I still have some to mail out. Maybe they'll reach the recipient by New Year.

It's not fancy, but these were the pictures on our Christmas Greeting.

Getting a decent looking picture of all of us was a total nightmare. I had several family photo sessions and finally got the pictures by editing, editing, and more editing.

Day 7: Candlelight Worship Service

If you remember my post on traditions, you'll know what this is about.

Every year, the last Sunday night before Christmas, our church hosts a Candlelight Worship Service. We worship outside, no matter how cold, with our candles; and we usually have some some special "treat". We've had a snow machine in the past and the last couple of years, we've had fireworks. We have gone for the past four Christmases.

Well this Christmas was no exception. It wasn't too cold so I decided to keep the kids with us.

These pictures were taken with my hubby's iPhone. I have a really nice camera that never has a memory card in it :-(

Regardless, the night was special as we had two testimonies given. One from a lady I am so honored to call "friend". I recorded it, but it won't fit on Vimeo.

Day 8: "Joseph's Lullaby"

I ~~sing~~ make a joyful noise in our church's choir. I have enjoyed being in the choir so much. I love all the members. My church is a family, but the choir is my immediate family. My husband as well as my mother in law, father in law, two of my brother in laws, and one of my sister in laws also sing in the choir. It's a family affair ;-)

Did you know that my hubby is also a terrific singer? He actually had a solo in our Christmas musical this year. I've got that recorded as well, but it's also too large for Vimeo. I'd love to share it if I could.

Anyway, this year, one of the songs in our Christmas musical was "Joseph's Lullaby". It was a beautiful song sang by the tenors and basses in four part harmony. It really sets in the reality of our Savior coming as a human baby and from His earthly parents' perspective. I can't hardly listen to it without crying. I actually had to pull over the first time I listened to it.

Go to sleep my son

This manger for Your bed

You have a long road before You

Rest Your little head.

Can You feel the weight of Your glory?

Do You understand the price?

Or does the Father guard Your heart for now

so You can sleep tonight.

Go to sleep my son.

Go and chase Your dreams.

This world can wait for one more moment.

Go and sleep in peace.

I believe the glory of heaven

is lying in my arms tonight.

But Lord, I ask that He for just this moment

simply be my Child.

Go to sleep my son.

And baby close Your eyes.

Soon enough You'll save the day,

but for now, dear Child of mine,

Oh my Jesus,

sleep tight.

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 5: Early Christmas Presents

2011-12-16T17:48:00.000-06:00

I have been on the hunt for a white wooden highchair, or at least a wooden highchair that I could paint right. And I know that beggars can't be choosers, but I really wanted one with a sliding tray. I really didn't care- old, new, used, whatever. No luck anywhere.

Then, a friend of my husband's from high school (she also happens to be one of my Facebook buddies), Autumn, who refinishes furniture making it shabby chic posted a picture of a high chair she had just refinished.

It. Was. Perfect.

It was wooden. It was white. It was distressed. It had a sliding tray. Did I mention it was perfect?

Guess who went and bought it from her the next day?

I was excited to get and visit her and her sweet babies and I left with a treasure!

Isn't it pretty? I can just see my little rosy, blue eyed beauty sitting in it this spring. And pink balloons tied to it for her birthday!

We also got another early Christmas present yesterday and it was very, very special.

Yesterday we saw Jude's cardiologist. You know that guy we used to have to see every week.

Well he said all the measurement readings from Jude's scan yesterday looked NORMAL!

No concerns. No worries.

We are going to continue seeing him once a year unless a problem arises. And we are going to continue on the plan of letting Jude grow out of his heart med dosage.

The cardiologist was also very happy to meet Miss Aubrey Lane. He did a scan on her before she was born this spring, in case you forgot. He was also the doctor who was very encouraging in our desire to grow our family.

He told us that Jude looked awesome. And that we were doing an great job taking care of him.

I remember feeling like I was going to hyperventilate every time I walked into that office. However, yesterday we floated out of there on cloud nine.

Praises to our Father who has touched and healed Jude's heart!!

Have you gotten or given any early Christmas presents?

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 4: Christmas Cuties

2011-12-15T23:02:00.000-06:00

Some posts don't need any words at all!

:-)

Twelve Days of Christmas-Day 3: Traditions

2011-12-14T23:52:00.002-06:00

Before I get started, am I the only nerd that sang "Tradition" in my head from "The Fiddler on the Roof" when you read the post title? Probably so, lol.

Who doesn't love a tradition? Especially a Christmas tradition.

I am such a creature of habit, though. I like doing the same things on the same time and same day every year.

I. Love. It.

In a world that is so unstable and full of heartache, I want to provide my children with as much stability and security as possible.

Of course the best way to provide that is to raise them in a Christ centered home.

But you can also provide lots of traditions for your family to depend on every year.

The point of these traditions is to make memories. When I am old and gray and my children are busy raising their own children, those memories will be completely priceless to me.

Well we have one solid Christmas tradition that Lane and started on our first Christmas when we were dating.

Every year we decorate the Christmas tree and order pizza. Then we watch a Christmas movie- usually "Elf"; however, this year we watched the SEC Championship game.

See? It's so simple, but something just makes my heart smile when the tree goes up and Lane automatically asks me if I want him to go ahead and order the pizza.

(It's a little bare, I changed our whole Christmas colors scheme this year)

This year, we started putting our Christmas cards we receive on the Christmas tree. I think it looks very sweet. And Lane likes it too.

We have another little tradition that we do every Christmas Eve before we head to Lane's family's house. While we are all dressed in our (coordinating) Christmas best, we take pictures in front of the Christmas tree. I love to see how we've changed over the years and how my babies have grown.

We also participate in our church's candlelight Christmas service every year the Sunday night before Christmas. It's such a special time to share with our church family.

And as you read yesterday, we also introduced Wilbur, our scout elf on the shelf, this year. I can't wait to have so much fun with him. I have already decided that sometime right around Thanksgiving every year, we will have a special breakfast to welcome Wilbur back every season.

These are just a start. I know that the best traditions and memories happen on their own.

What are your family's traditions?

A Reply for Santa..

2011-12-14T10:41:00.001-06:00

After posting Day 2 of my Twelve Days of Christmas series, I got only two responses.

However, two responses were all I really needed.

If you missed the post last night you can just click here to read it.

Back to the responses- I'm posting the second comment first. It was written by a friend from my hometown, Whitney, doing her best to raise two little girls in a Godly manner.

I wanted to share her comment because it offers a practical way to combine true Christmas meaning and Santa- plus the gift giving tip! EXCELLENT!

“Angel,

this month- after our girls say their prayers each night we follow up on the true meaning of Christmas and how we should focus more on Jesus and why he was born more than Santa, elves, snowmen, etc.

I have also tried to incorporate the ''Baby Jesus'' rule...3 gifts were given to Jesus, so 3 is good enough for them. That makes it a little easier for me not to go overboard and go to crazy with gifts.

Hope that helps!!

*Plus, they think Santa works for Jesus, lol.”

The first response I'm posting next, was from a very sweet sister in Christ, Melanie, who has raised four children in a Christian home. I admire her faith greatly. When she shared her comment, I thought that it was so elegantly put that it needed to be shared, because maybe, just maybe I am not the only Christian mom on the fence about Santa.

“Loved your post. I understand both ways also. With my sons I was a little more anti Santa. I was a rather new Christian and still caught in a lot of legalism. I did take them to see Santa and took pictures with them but never told them he was real. They always knew where their presents came from. Years later and a little more balanced. I did things a little different with my twin girls. They took pictures and I left presents unwrapped for them say Santa doesn't wrap. After that they knew the unwrapped gifts were from Santa. Not sure when they finally realized Santa wasn't real but it was fun to pretend. God gave us an imagination and pretending is part of childhood. Which ever way each family chooses to handle it is a personal choice. There is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus. As long as we teach them more about Jesus and His birth than Santa I think we are ok.”

Did you get the most important part of that comment?

"There is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus."

Powerful!

I think, even as steadfast Christians, we need to be reminded the simple truth. I know I did.

Do you have an opinion you would like to share?

12 Days of Christmas-Day 2: Do You Believe?

2011-12-13T23:56:00.001-06:00

To Santa or Not To Santa?

Okay... Today's post is a little late. (I didn't promise they would all be posted in timely fashion) Anyway- today's topic is more of a thought provoking question and maybe a little advice for a mama on the fence about a big subject..

SANTA!

I grew up in a home where we believed in Santa. And, well, my husband grew up in a home that didn't talk about Santa. So therefore, we are not both on board for either route.

I don't know what kind of relationship you have with your spouse, but I have a hard time doing anything with my family if my husband and I aren't 100% on the same page.

In case I haven't been obvious enough about it in my former posts, let me just boldly state:

WE ARE CHRISTIANS RAISING CHILDREN TO BECOME CHRISTIANS!

and well I've noticed a trend that a lot of Christians don't teach there children to believe in Santa Claus because it can distract them from the true reason for Christmas. Or about lying to their children then later having to traumatize them when they reveal that Santa never brought them toys.

While all that is understandable, I still have a lot of Christian friends that do play the role of St. Nick in their homes. And I think I want to have a Santa believing home as well. I mean, I figured out that there was no Santa on my own and I was not traumatized by it at all.

So here are my questions to my Christian families:

Does your family believe in Santa, and your reasons behind your decision?

and

If you do teach Santa, how do you make sure that Jesus is still the main attraction?

And of course if you do believe in Santa, you have these cute little guys to add to your tradition now.

His name is Wilbur. You all know why :)

I jumped on the bandwagon. I couldn't resist. I love, love, love traditions. And having a cute one to do with my children is going to make so many good memories to share with them when they aren't so little anymore. Maybe do with their own families. I would love to someday see my grandchildren doing something I did with my own babies.

Which brings me to tomorrow's post...

Traditions!

I love 'em. I want 'em.

I'm going to be sharing one that Lane and I have started on our own. And rather it's been done for generations or started with you, I want to hear yours too!

Hoping your Christmas is being very merry!

Angel

Twelve Days of Christmas-Day 1

2011-12-12T12:05:00.000-06:00

I have decided to do a twelve day blog series for Christmas. Traditionally, the twelve days of Christmas start on Christmas day. While I just love tradition, in modern days Christmas season ends with the passing of Christmas day. So I'm starting now and will finish up the day before Christmas Eve. Isn't that funny- that we have completely swapped the celebration times of the Christmas season.

Anyway, everyday will have a different Christmas topic: sentimental Christmas memories, a Christmas recipe, a craft, or maybe an inspirational message God put on my heart. I don't have a schedule- I'm just going to wing it! So here we go.

Favorite Christmas Memory

a sentimental post

As a child, I'm sure I had plenty of happy Christmas times. However, all of that has dimmed greatly in the presence of an event that would change my life forever; the birth of my first child and my first Christmas as a mommy.

Jude's arrival in mid October of 2007 changed our lives completely. The birth of any child changes lives, but the birth of a special needs baby goes beyond that. Life is harder, but moments are sweeter.

It's very hard to describe but I'll try.

You see, when you face the tough reality that God has chosen a much different path than you had planned for yourself, a path that seems much more difficult, you have to surrender and truly put your joy in the Lord. You can't just pretend to have your joy in the Lord when things are going good. It has to REALLY be there.

When this happens- really happens, memories are made differently. At least they are in my experiences.

During the moment a memory is in the making, you have to stop and push all the negative to the back and highlight the sweet moments. In this process, the ordinary moments become extraordinary and everyday events become precious memories. For example, instead of enjoying certain moments of an occasion, you are thrilled that the occasion occurred at all.

All this leads me up to my favorite Christmas memory.

The day we brought Jude home from the NICU the first time. He was almost eight weeks old. And in the world's standards, it wouldn't have been that great of a homecoming. He came home with a feeding tube, scars fresh from surgery, and a daily visit from a home health nurse.

But MAN, were we so excited to finally bring our baby boy home!!

To bring him into any room we wanted without the hassle of tubes and wires. To be able to bring him places with us like church or his grandparents home. To be able to hold him whenever we wanted without the permission of a nurse or doctor. It was so exciting!

On our way home from the hospital, we decided to get our very first Christmas tree as a family. We stopped at Home Depot and picked out a pretty little tree. Then we came home and put nothing but white lights on it. Then we sat Jude in his boppy in front of the tree and he was just amazed by all the lights. It was wonderful.

There was nothing exciting about the day, nothing fancy about the tree, but it is one of my favorite Christmas memories.

Christmas 2007

This is not a photo from that day, but a picture from our first Christmas as a family.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

Another wonderful Christmas memory can be read about by clicking here.

Four Months

2011-11-23T19:12:00.001-06:00

Aubrey Lane, you are FOUR MONTHS OLD!!!

The stats are on the picture, but you weigh 14 pounds and are 24 inches long. You are just below the 50th percentile in height and just below the 75th percentile in weight. You wear 3-6 months or 6 months clothes, and you just started wearing a size 2 diaper. You have your very first cold right now, but other than that you have been pretty healthy.

Your milestones are about the same. You pick your upper body up when on your tummy, and you are trying so hard to roll over unto your tummy from your back. You also like to stand anytime I hold you. Lately, you have started pulling your knees under you when you're on your tummy.

About a month ago at 3 months, you decided that you no longer wanted a pacifier or a bottle. So it's just me and you baby girl. Your pediatrician normally doesn't suggest cereal or solids until closer to 6 months for thriving breastfed babies. However, since you no longer take a bottle, she has given the okay to start you on rice cereal so that Mommy can have a date with Papa every now and then and not worry about you starving.

You still really enjoy your swing. We have started putting you in your jumperoo and you really enjoy that too! You have started watching TV which absolutely blows my mind. We have your Praise Baby DVD in the car and it helps with road trips because you still don't like to ride that much. It's not the ride that bothers you; it's the car seat. You scream every time we buckle in it, but are quieted by Papa giving it a couple swings.

Aubrey Lane, you are such a beautiful baby. Your eyes are still blue and your complexion is still so rosey. People are constantly stopping me to oooh and awe over you. They often ask me if I put make up on you because you're so pretty, but I don't. You are just naturally so beautiful.

You are a pretty laid back baby, never too fussy (only in church, haha, which you will start going to the nursery this week). You laugh and coo for us; however you are tough crowd. We have to work hard for those rewards. But we gladly do so.

I hope you get to read this blog one day kiddo. It tells the story of our family. The stories behind the legacy we are working hard to leave you and your brother. I love you very much!

Happy Four Months, a little late,

Mommy

I hear you!

2011-11-21T14:30:00.001-06:00

Today I am taking my sweet Aubrey Lane and little Jude Dude to Woman's Center for Wellness. Aubrey Lane is having her hearing rechecked. Because Jude is hearing impaired, Aubrey will
have to get her hearing checked regularly. I think...

Nothing is telling me Aubrey's hearing is impaired as well, but prayers are appreciated!

As for Jude, he is picking therapy back up at Woman's. He finished preschool at LSU until next semester, and we are resuming speech, occupational, and physical therapy. I am a little excited about this because all of these therapist are like family to us. Plus I'm not sure how much private therapy Jude's school schedule will allow for next year so I want to get as much as we can now.

I'm going to make a stronger attempt at blogging updates on Jude and Aubrey Lane. I feel very revived in my outlook on Jude's development. I believe- scratch that- I know that the Lord spoke to my heart through our Pastor's sermon yesterday morning!

Don't worry- I will divulge all that wonderful stuff later. For now I've gotta run!

HI!

2011-11-04T16:55:00.001-05:00

To say it is National Blog Posting Month, I'm not doing so well :-(

I have good excuses... Two of them! Jude and Aubrey Lane ;-)

We've had lots of school and therapy, several doctors appointments, an ear infection, a stomach virus, and tons of hugs and kisses.

We've been a busy family.

Well I actually have three good excuses. The Mustard Seed Boutique is actually growing and I'm getting some steady business. I delivered a couple of orders this week!

I'm working on my Etsy store right now and getting it up soon!

I'm thankful for the little extra income to help out!

Other than that, Fall is officially here- calendar wise and weather wise. And we are really enjoying it. I'll have to post some pictures soon! Maybe tonight or tomorrow.

I hope everyone is well!
Angel

Three Sweet Months

2011-10-19T14:07:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that my sweet Aubrey Lane is already three months old!!!

Aubrey, at three months your little personality is starting to come through. You are very sweet for everyone but you prefer your Mommy over anyone.

You love to smile and laugh and coo all the time, especially after you have just been fed.

You are usually a good sleeper and you sleep about 9 straight hours a night! However, you hate to be out after dark. If we are in the car after dark, you cry until we get home :-(

You have discovered your hand and your big brother. You watch him constantly and think he is very funny.

You're a spitter... anyone who holds you for more than five minutes knows this.

Your looks have started to change some. Once you looked just like your Papa, but since you've started rounding out the consensus is that you now look more like me. Your hair is starting to lighten up, your eyes are still a grey blue, and you have such a rosy complexion. You are really beautiful!

You have only had 3 bottles so far and you don't care for them much. You have only stayed in the nursery a couple of times. And you go everywhere with Mommy.

You are such a sweetie!

Can't wait to see what the next month holds!

Dedicated and Celebrated

2011-10-17T12:02:00.000-05:00

This weekend was a super busy weekend for our family, and all the exciting stuff happened on Sunday.

First we got up early and dressed the Jude dude and Aubrey Lane in their matching outfits and headed off to church to meet the rest of the family for Aubrey Lane's baby dedication.

This was the only family picture I could get with the kids kinda looking at the camera.

I bought Aubrey Lane's dress at a sweet little boutique in Zachary and I made Jude's jonjon to match. I was so proud of them; however, Aubrey Lane's dress upstaged Jude's outfit. Everyone kept asking me if I made Aubrey's dress because it was so beautiful. And let me clarify: I DON'T SMOCK! And honestly, I'm not sure if I want learn how to smock. I would love to be able to put my name as maker on a sweet little smocked outfit for Aubrey Lane, but I really don't have the time or resources to do such right now.

Regardless, I have learned my lesson. If I make a sweet outfit for one of my babies, I need to dress the other baby down or make sure they are both in homemade outfits, lol

She's such a sweet girl.

After baby dedication, we headed to the park for Jude's birthday party.

Jude LOVES anything Eric Carl so we did "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" themed birthday party.

Jude had a blast playing in the park, and I think the rest of the children did too!

Maybe Jude had a little too much fun? He slept through 30 minutes of the party.

My mom and other sweet friends held Aubrey Lane so we could play with Jude!

The park was too cool. It is a handicapped accessible park with wide play areas and wheel chair ramps on the toys. It also has a splash park which I should have told guests to bring swimsuits but I had no idea the temp would be near the 90's during mid October.

We had a great but exhausting day. I feel so blessed that I got to dedicate my daughter to raise to love Jesus and celebrate another year with my sweet son, Jude!

Later that evening, I came home and told Aubrey that this week she will be 3 months old so it was time for her to roll over now. I put her on her mat on her tummy and she rolled right over like all I had to do was ask her :-) We were so excited!

Despite the busyness, it was truly a great day.

Happy Birthday Jude!!

2011-10-12T11:11:00.000-05:00

Today is my sweet redhead's FOURTH birthday!!

Happy Birthday Jude!!!

I can't believe it's been four years already, but at the same time I can't remember life without him.

Just a few hours old.

ONE year old!

TWO years old!

THREE years old!

FOUR YEARS OLD!!!

(well actually last day as a three year old)

This was a really big year for Jude. He started walking in his gait trainer, sitting up on his own, crawling, pulling up, learning to eat crackers, starting preschool, moving to a "big boy" bed, and becoming a big brother.

We are so blessed to have another year with our sweet boy. Every minute is a gift.

Thank you, God, for loaning one of your most precious creations to us to love so much!

Park Weather

2011-10-11T20:38:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned to you before that I just love this time of year? I think I have a time or two.

I have been on a mission to clean my house super good the past couple of days. (Hasn't had a super good cleaning since Aubrey Lane arrived) But today when I stepped outside, the weather reminded me that I have two bigger priorities than a mopped floor. So when the mister came home for lunch, I announced that when he got home from work we were taking the kids to the park; I don't care how dirty the house is.

So this afternoon rolled around and we headed to the park.

Jude had a blast sliding, swinging, and teeter tottering...

Aubrey Lane was there to enjoy the park too.

She just enjoyed it in her own little way :-)

We had a great playtime and plan to do it way more often.

Sweet Pea

2011-10-11T10:02:00.001-05:00

My little sweet pea, Aubrey Lane, is TWELVE weeks old today!

It's going by way too quickly.

Today is a good day for a miracle.

2011-10-10T12:10:00.001-05:00

This is my friend Kim. She adores Aubrey Lane and Jude is her heart. She just loves my little man so much.

Kim is very special to our family as well as so many

other families in our church and her community.

We love her very much!

Kim is in a ferocious battle with cancer. It is causing her a tremendous amount of physical pain.

Kim needs a miracle TODAY!

Please pray for her!

I know that a lot of people who read my blog already know Kim and are already praying for her, but I also know that

I have a lot of readers that don't know her but are

phenomenal prayer warriors.

We know that our God is still doing miracles all the time.

As Kim says everyday-

Today is a good day for a miracle.

Hey Tiger Fans...

2011-10-08T22:07:00.000-05:00

How 'bout that

Honey Badger?!?

GEAUX TIGERS!!!!

Caviar taste on a tuna fish budget...

2011-10-06T21:52:00.003-05:00

I have become a HUGE fan of Kelly's Korner Blog. If you love to read family blogs, you'll love her. She seems so sweet and real.

Anyway, every Friday she does a "Show Us Your Life" linky party to help other bloggers connect! Every Friday she has a different topic.

This past Friday she had a SUYL party about where we shop for our kids.

I love dressing my Jude in polos, plaid shorts, sweaters, khakis, jon jons, and longalls. Usually a casual outfit is easy to put together on a budget, and Jude grows very slowly so I know if I spend a little extra on a sweet outfit that he will get plenty of wear out of it. I wish he was still little and I could get away with the boutique clothing a little more.

On the other hand, I haven't got to buy much for Aubrey Lane. I have been so blessed with so many sweet outfits for her, but she's about to grow out of most of those outfits. And so I'm so excited about getting some girly things!

Here's my problem:

I have caviar taste on a tuna fish budget.

I love all those smocked and applique boutique outfits. I love cardigans and dresses and rompers and bows and tights and bloomers and bracelets and... well you get the picture. All those things are so sweet, but so so PRICEY! Not really in everyday budget for a stay at home mom.

So here was my solution...
I got my monogramming machine. I can monogram most of my kids clothes myself- I still need Stacy's (Once N Again my local monogramming haven) help. And I can also do appliques with my machine. I can save on plain longalls and dresses by monogramming or appliqueing them myself. It can costs anywhere from $5-$25 dollars for a monogram or applique so I feel like my machine will pay for itself in the long run. And since I have a basic knowledge of sewing, I can make Jude and Aubrey Lane some cute cute clothes.

These are just a few of the cute things I've monogrammed, appliquéd, or actually made for my sweet babies.

Oh and I made Jude's outfit to wear to the hospital to meet his little sister!

But I can't make everything and I can't smock. (Well I'm sure I could learn but I'm not sure I want to invest in a pleater- moving on) So I need to find an affordable way to dress my kiddos in beautiful boutique outfits.

I love shopping ebay and consignment. Etsy is also a great place to shop for beautiful handmade outfits. But, I only buy items from Etsy that I can't make myself.

And I love Kelly's Kids clothes. And Kelly's Kids have warehouse outlet sales in Natchez a few times a year so I'll be heading up there soon.

And lately I have been turned onto the Facebook auctions where you can get smocked goodies for cheap. A few of the Facebook stores I have found that I like are

Smocked Auctions
Smockadot

Curls and Twirls

Smocktions

I think I might have actually won my first auction tonight at Smocked Auctions. Keeping my fingers crossed..

and I can't wait to buy some goodies from a high school friend at
Doodlebug Boutique

and another friend also has cute Facebook boutique
Simply 2 Exquisite

But like you all know, I am new at this dressing-a-girl thing so I need lots of tips and tricks.

Like... can a bow ever be too big? and if you put your little girl in a dress in tights, do you still need to put bloomers over the tights?

Of course I love for Jude and Aubrey Lane to match and I've found that solid color polos and button ups are the easiest for Jude to match Aubrey's outfits when matching outfits aren't already available. So where is the best place to find those polos and button ups? Or do you have any other tips on matching an older brother to a little sister?

And I'd love to know how you manage dressing your sweet baby on a budget? Where do you find good deals and steals?

Three Free Hours

2011-10-06T08:15:00.000-05:00

Okay.. so yesterday while I was sitting in a McDonald’s parking lot using some free WiFi while Aubrey Lane napped and Jude was in preschool, I decided I needed to plan these preschool days a little better.

Up until now, I have had things to do during the hours Jude is at preschool. Such as doctors appointments and trips to home health for supplies. But today was my first free day.

For those of you who wonder why I just don’t go home those three hours that Jude is in school, let me explain. We don’t exactly live very close to the LSU campus. With traffic, it is at least a 30 minute drive to get there and about a 40 minute drive to get home. So I really hate to add an hours worth of driving everyday to the gas bill on top of the fact that coming home for an hour and a half seems more trouble than worth. And I don’t have many stay at home mom friends and the few I have don’t live any closer to Baton Rouge than I do.

All this in mind, I’ve felt pretty guilty. It’s not fair that Aubrey Lane has to spend so much time in a car seat. No wonder she cries every time I put her in it.

So today I started trying to figure out what to do on my three hours of free time. These were my ideas and thoughts on them.

I could bring Aubrey Lane to a park. That wouldn’t work because she’s not quite old enough to enjoy that and there is just too many germs at a park (yes I am that mom-blame the NICU and the PICU) Not that we won’t go to parks, I would just like her to wait until she won’t have to stay in the hospital for a fever.

I could bust out the jogging stroller while I’m at LSU and walk the Lakes. But those of you who don’t know my husband, just let me tell you- His little five foot nothing wife pushing his newborn baby girl down the side of the road would be way too much for his worrying habits.

I could put a cooler in the truck and go grocery shopping while Jude was at school- maybe...

I could go shopping in general- but I really don’t want to do that because that's not fun for Aubrey Lane and I’m trying to save money right now.

Or (the only idea that might seem to work) I can find a local library and take Aubrey Lane and read to her or hopefully they might have a story time on those days.

This is where I need your help. I need ideas for making this three free hours quality time for Aubrey Lane.

What would you do? I’d love any suggestions I could get.

One Reader

2011-10-05T11:58:00.001-05:00

Lately, life has been so full that I can find little time to get to the computer much less sit down and write a well organized blog post. It just hasn't been on the top of my list of priorities.

I mean, I just can't find the time. For example, right now I am sitting in a McDonald's parking lot typing while Aubrey naps, and we wait for Jude to get out of preschool.

This has made me wonder, "Why do I blog?"

Sure this blog originated from Caringbridge to keep family and friends up to speed on Jude's medical status and development. And morphed into more of an outlet and journal for me. A source of prayer requests and praises for answered prayers.

Sure I love all of those creative and DIY blogs! I find myself so inspired by all of those things. But let's be honest, I'm not a super creative and original person. I don't have some major house renovation project going, nor have I mastered any skill enough to share with you some wonderful tutorial.

So what's the purpose of this blog? I don't have many followers to entertain or giveaways to hand out or contests to enter.

I was actually praying about it this morning and know in my heart that I got my answer.

This blog is my real time testimony.

When I write, it's about my life and my experiences and the grace and mercy that God has shown and shows me throughout them. It is a constant testament that joy is found in the Lord.

But like I mentioned above, I don't have this huge base of readers to testify to so what's it worth?

One reader.

One reader, just one.

One reader to witness the grace of God in my life.

One reader to share the good news with and come to know Jesus as their savior.

One reader to see and understand that our Father is still doing miracles for people everywhere. People who are so undeserving like myself.

One reader who might be in what the world sees as a hopeless situation for me to say "With Jesus there is ALWAYS hope. He IS our hope."

One reader that might be encouraged by a family that could have easily said "I give up" but instead chooses to fiercely praise His name.

One reader that came to my blog by accident and was witnessed to.

One reader that I might be able to plant a seed in. A seed as tiny as a mustard seed.

One. Reader.

If hundreds of people read this blog daily but only one reader witnesses the glory of the LORD in all of its existence, then I have found an unquestionable reason for writing it.

Just one reader.

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
Revelations 12:11

It's the best medicine!

2011-10-04T23:10:00.002-05:00

Laughter that is.

And Lane and I got a huge dose of that super sweet medicine tonight.

I was holding and talking to our sweet baby girl when Lane said something that made me laugh out loud.

Now for those of you who don't personally know me, I have a loud boisterous laugh. It can be a little startling. However, Aubrey Lane found my laugh very humorous. She broke out in a HUGE smile and started LAUGHING OUT LOUD!

It was so stinkin' cute that I kept laughing and Lane joined in. The more we laughed, the more she did. And this carried on for about three minutes.

It was the best three minutes I've had in a couple weeks.

For three precious little minutes, everything in the world was just perfect.

I can't believe she is already laughing out loud. Time is flying by so quickly as both my babies are getting bigger by the minute.

Just look how quickly Aubrey Lane is growing.

This was during the first week of life.

This was bath time last week.

She is so sweet lately with her smiles and coos and "laughs". She is about to be out of 3 months and into 6 months clothes. SHE IS ONLY 2 MONTHS OLD!! She is also growing out of what little hair she has :-/ But I'm sure she will get some eventually.

Aubrey Lane has also gained a lot of head control and can now pose for sweet pictures like this

She is not the only star around the house. Our Judey Jude is still getting lots of attention.

Lately we have been working on teaching Jude how to help do things for himself.

For example,

teaching him how to help wash his own hair. He loves it and is actually getting the hang of it.

Well that's it for now. I'm sure I'll be back on here soon because I'm getting double the stories to tell with double the blessings.

I'm still here...

2011-09-27T16:04:00.000-05:00

I know it's been awhile, but I haven't abandoned my blogging ways. I've just been a little preoccupied lately...

Okay, VERY preoccupied. But who could blame me for not blogging when I have been loving on the sweetest babies instead?

That's what I thought.

Life has been good and, well, crazy. Jude started school back at LSU and Bellingrath Hills Elementary and the running around has been exhausting. I averaged the time spent in the car traveling from place to place, and somedays we were spending well over 3 hours a day driving around. HELLO! That is a trip to Biloxi. Not to mention that I was having to nurse Aubrey Lane in the car praying that I didn't offend anyone and getting over it if I did. We decided that we needed to back away from private therapy for awhile. But we will be back soon.

There have been plenty of highlights the past month.

The first one is that Jude's APE (advanced physical education) Coach feels that Jude will be WALKING soon! Now that's with the assistance of a walker, but who cares? He will eventually graduate from that and walk on his own. Coach Matt has bragged on Jude's improvement in strength and understanding of the mechanics of walking. Lane and I have been helping Jude walk everywhere to get him stronger. I would love for him to be walking for Christmas- best present I could get!

The eating is still not going that great. Jude has progressed to biting and eating Ritz crackers, but his desire to eat varies from day to day.

Second thing is that Aubrey Lane is now 2 MONTHS OLD!!

At her 2 month check up she was exactly in the 50th percentile for weight and height. Wonderfully average!! The doctor said she is doing great and meeting her milestones right on target.

It is so hard to believe that my little Sweet Pea we all prayed so hard for is growing so fast. (I've already asked Lane if we can try for baby #3 when I finish nursing Aubrey Lane ;-)

And finally, The Mustard Seed Boutique is slowly but steadily getting up and going. I am actually working on a big order right now for super sweet friend Darla and her soon-to-be-here grandson.

I have an Etsy shop. It's just a little empty right now. I haven't had time to really design a banner or logo or card for my little business which I really need to do soon. Until I can get all that done, I've signed up with Big Cartel so I can list a few things at a time until I can get those other things done. Please check it out for me!

The Mustard Seed Boutique

If you live locally you can always email me at ourmustardseed@gmail.com if you would like to order anything and save on the shipping. I'll be adding Thanksgiving and Christmas items as I can.

Well, I have to get. Not much time for computers these days unless it's naptime and most of the time I try to get a little nap when they do ;-)

Hope y'all are doing well!

Angel

Where are your treasures stored?

2011-09-13T09:04:00.000-05:00

Last night, Lane and I were snuggled on the couch with both of our sweet babies watching television. My sweet Jude was stretched out and sound asleep between the two of us when out of nowhere a huge smile covered his face and he started giggling in his sleep.

This was such a sweet moment, and our hearts were melted by it. Not only was it absolutely adorable, but comforting as well.

You see Jude’s heart medication has a nasty reputation of causing nightmares or night terrors as a possible side effect. And unfortunately, Jude suffers from this nasty side effect. It is not uncommon for my sweet redhead to cry out in his sleep or wake up screaming multiple times a night. His night terrors can be so bad that Lane and I will have to hold him and make him look at us to realize that he’s safe and to stop screaming. It really is heartbreaking for any mom to have to go through. So you can understand how comforting it would be to see him smile and laugh in his sleep.

Back to last night’s moment...

Lane and I continued to watch in pure joy as Jude kept showing his sweet smile in his sleep. And we talked about how nice it was to watch.

Then Lane asked what did I think he was dreaming about to make him so happy. Us? His favorite cartoon? Bath time?

I began to cry.

I explained to Lane that I can’t wait to get to heaven and talk to Jude. I would give anything to know the thoughts that run through his head on a daily basis. I am sure there are more intelligent thoughts in him than people would think.

What will I hear when I get to heaven?

Have I been a good enough mother to hear heartwarming sentiments? Have I spoke enough blessings into his life? Have I been patient and kind enough? Have I kissed enough booboos and shown enough tenderness in times of fear?

Jude may not be able to tell me so, but he does understand these things. And I want to make sure that when he can tell me, he has plenty to talk about.

I know that perfection belongs solely to God and shouldn’t be expected from anyone; therefore, I’m not implying that I am anywhere near it nor do I expect it from anyone else. But have we shown our children the Jesus in us? Or have we shown them the world? Will our heavenly conversation with our children be a cherished treasure or a dreaded judgement day?

I don’t know your answers and you don’t know mine, but I do know that starting right now I am putting forth extra effort to insure that anticipated conversation is a beautiful one.

I don’t want to hear that my son or daughter thought that money, social life, personal recreation, or anything other than his father or Jesus was more important than them.

A conversation with my son is one of my most valued treasures. And where is that treasure? It is stored in heaven along with seeing Jude walk, run, talk, and sing. I just love my redhead so so much.

My heart longs for the day I receive this treasure, but for now it is stored safely in heaven.

Where are your treasures stored?

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:19-21

Definitons

2011-08-30T16:29:00.000-05:00

What defines sweetness?

Maybe a pink flower

or that sweet newborn smell?

What defines perfection?

Is it ten little fingers and ten little toes?

What defines beauty?

Is it a baby's first cry

a sweet little girl

or the love a father has for his children?

What defines love?

Could I describe love if I tried?

Or that feeling I get when

I count all the treasures

my Father has blessed me with?

Happy Six Weeks??

2011-08-30T15:01:00.001-05:00

Today, Aubrey Lane is SIX WEEKS OLD!!!

Yes... yes it has- for those of you saying, "Has it really been six weeks already?"

And what is Aubrey Lane doing, and where is she doing it at on her six weeks birthday?

Unfortunately, Aubrey Lane is a patient at Our Lady of the Lake's Children's Hospital!

Yesterday afternoon, I found a rash on Aubrey Lane and called the pediatrician who informed me it was probably nothing more than a little newborn rash. A couple hours later, she started to run a little fever (of course after hours). So we ended up in the Lake's pediatric emergency room. The fever was low, but since she is under 12 weeks old they felt they needed to rule out the super scary stuff like spinal meningitis. So my sweet baby underwent several sticks to get some blood work and a lumbar puncture to check her spinal fluid.

Now, I thought that being Jude's mom and all I've been through with him would toughen me up for anything else down the road. Well I was wrong because seeing Aubrey get stuck broke my heart.

Praise. The. Lord. that the blood and spinal fluid cultures have all been normal. Her CBC blood work showed she probably has nothing more than a little virus that's causing the fever and the rash. However, the doctors decided to keep Aubrey for 48 hour observation to get IV antibiotics just in case any of her cultures start to show something. That 48 hours ends tomorrow night which means she will get discharged Thursday morning if all goes well. The doctors have admitted that this stay is probably just overkill, but they don't want to take any risk with her being so young. Which is fine by me; I'd rather be extra careful.

My sweet girl is doing good. She is still running a low fever and very sleepy but I know God will keep her safe just like He has from the beginning!

It's crazy to write that about someone other than Jude being in the hospital. Jude is doing great. He started preschool yesterday and he loves it. Cries when we leave the building. Jude and Lane are actually here at the hospital right now visiting their sweet baby.

Please pray for our family as we are getting a crash course in learning how to balance the needs of two children now. And of course, please pray that Aubrey Lane heals quickly and the tests all remain negative.

Time is FLYING By

2011-08-16T14:36:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that it is already mid August and I am just now making my first blog post for the month!

Well... actually, I can believe it.

Life has been a little busy the past month, to say the least. And blogging or anything to do with the computer, among lots of other things, has simply not been on my list of priorities. All the energy I had before Aubrey Lane was born has completely diminished. I nested and kept my house pretty clean before her arrival... now I would be embarrassed for anyone to know how long it's been since my floors were mopped :-/ My joke I tell lately is that getting my teeth brushed before noon is an accomplishment these days... however, there is more truth than comedy to that statement. Regardless we have truly enjoyed our new family of four!

Life has been good!

It has been hard, but it has definitely been good.

Can you believe that Aubrey Lane is FOUR WEEKS old today?!?!

I can't!

But she is. She will be a month old this Friday. And she is growing like a weed! She weighs over 8 pounds and no longer has that dazed, cross-eyed newborn look. Her looks have changed as she grows; she has her own unique look; not just a baby look. (makes me sad how quickly she is growing) She is tracking and discovering new things everyday.

Like her big brother.

Jude has also noticed that there is a new family member in the home. However, it hasn't affected him much. He observes her with a calm curiosity from time to time, but carries out his regular routine for the most part.

These pictures were taken the day we came home from the hospital. She has grown so much since then.

Now that school is starting that routine is going to change for all of us. Jude will be starting back at LSU Preschool and also doing some homebound services through our local preschool.

Actually, I'm pretty excited about all of these changes. Right now, I am still under restriction not to lift anything over 10 pounds so that means that caring for Jude leaves me completely dependent among other people. Hopefully, in two weeks my doctor will release me to a "normal" lifestyle, whatever normal is for my family now.

Hope everyone is enjoying the last bits of their summer. It sure did fly by, as does all time these days. Make sure you are making the most of it!

"Don't be afraid of death, Winnie. Be afraid of the unlived life."

-Angus Tuck from Tuck Everlasting

The Miracle of Life

2011-07-30T20:31:00.001-05:00

We were so fortunate to be able to have Christi Santangelo of Santangelo Photography in the delivery room to capture the miracle of life in photographs for us.

These photographs are precious to us as Christi captured the precious moments of our daughter's birth.

These pictures preserve memories and emotions that we could have never captured on our own. I cried like a baby viewing them for the first time.

Christi did an amazing job and we are so thankful to have these cherished memories in pictures.

*There were around 300 pictures total!! So this is just a summary of all the wonderful memories preserved!

"Every good and perfect gift is from above…"

James 1:17

Hello, Aubrey Lane! from The Mustard Seed on Vimeo.

"I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted what I asked of Him…"

1 Samuel 1:27

I hope you enjoyed watching this video as much as I enjoy watching it... over and over again ;-)

My Redhead's Summer

2011-07-30T08:54:00.001-05:00

With all the excitement of Aubrey Lane's much anticipated arrival, I haven't posted many pictures of Jude this summer.

Well, just so you know, Jude has had, up until this point, a very fun filled summer. We wanted to make sure that we got some good quality time in with him before life changed for everyone.

We've gone to the zoo, the movies, the pool, the beach, the playground (well until it got too hot- living in Louisiana means that outdoor summer activities must involve water), and so on... We even drove about 30 minutes to watch 20 minutes worth of fireworks ;-)

Jude's favorite activities have, of course, been those involving water. Mostly the pool at his cousins' Cade and Katie's house.

Jude also got to participate in Vacation Bible School for the first time at our church this year! (while I taught nine months preggo) He had his very own shadow that helped him everywhere during the day. He had a blast!

Although summer hasn't quite drawn to a close just yet, our activities for the next month will be somewhat limited due to my healing from delivery. (Which is going well by the way, just a little sore and completely restricted from lifting Jude for any reason other than to save his life) And soon Jude will start school back at LSU! It's going to be quite a busy time for all of us, but I'm sure we are going to adjust and manage just fine!

Speaking of adjusting... Jude has not missed a beat with our newest addition. He has been very sweet and hasn't acted out or shown any jealousy at all. I know he doesn't fully understand who Aubrey Lane is or why she is here, but I know he's going to love her very much!

Oh.. and I have all the birth photos from our AWESOME photographer. Some of the photos are obviously a little too... ummm... intimate to share, but all of them are precious so I'll be sharing some more of them when I find some free time. However, I don't know how soon that will be since I spend most of my free time catching up on my sleep!

Well, I hope everyone is having a great weekend! We are going to get out of the house today so I'm super excited! So I need to go get a couple kiddos ready. ;-)

She has a name!!!

2011-07-21T12:24:00.000-05:00

After two days of remaining nameless, our sweet baby girl now has a name chosen for her by her daddy!

Lane, Jude, and I are so excited to announce that

Aubrey Lane

is the newest member of our family and we are so in love with her already!

Not only is she named after her own father (which was my idea and I just love that I have a son and now a daughter that are both named after their daddy), but both my grandfather and my father bear the name Aubrey.

The name fits her perfectly!

For all our friends and family who would like to see more of Aubrey Lane's birth photos, our wonderful photographer has posted some more highlights on her Santangelo Photography facebook page. You can view them by clicking here! Then click on the "births" photo album!

Meet Sweet Pea!

2011-07-20T09:21:00.002-05:00

Photographs provided by Santangelo Photography

Getting to kiss my daughter for the first time!

Such a sweet girl and good baby already!

Perfectly perfect in every way!

Could I be anymore blessed?!?!

Just when I think that the Lord has given me all the testimony of His glory I can stand, He adds another chapter! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Photographs provided by Santangelo Photography

A BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT

2011-07-19T19:44:00.003-05:00

Jude would like to announce to you the birth of his little

SISTER!!!

Our sweet girl arrived at 8:26 am weighing 6 pounds and 9.5 ounces!!

She is perfectly perfect in every way and bears a slight resemblance to her big brother with a headful of dark wavy hair.

She has yet to be named because nothing seems good enough for her!!

Testimony:

As most of you know, I desired to have a VBAC if possible. However, my body refused to cooperate so I had a scheduled cesarean section this morning. After the baby was born the doctor told me that my body had not shown any signs of progressing towards labor. She also told me that our sweet girl had the cord wrapped around her neck! She had not been strangled by it, but had I gone into labor, we could have lost our Sweet Pea! Thank God that His plans are so much better than our own!

Thanks so much for your prayers. The delivery and recovery went unbelievably smooth today and we are so blessed to have a daughter!

I will update with pictures and a name as soon as I can!

Lots of Love,

Lane and Angel

Honey, the baby is on its way!

2011-07-19T04:36:00.002-05:00

That's right!

We are on the way to the hospital this morning to have our Sweet Pea/ Butter Bean!

Despite my mutliple efforts, I never did go into labor so I have a scheduled cesarean section for 8 this morning. But we know this is God's plan for the baby's arrival, so we are okay with it!

It has been a very exciting 10 months and surprisingly easy! I have enjoyed sharing all my baby adventures with you, and my family has been overwhelmingly blessed by your prayers!

I will update everyone in the next day or so!

Lots of love,
Lane, Angel, Jude, and Sweet Pea

39 Weeks!!! All I can say is WOW!!

2011-07-14T05:51:00.001-05:00

Today, I am officially 39 weeks pregnant! A few weeks ago, I was sure I would have a sweet baby in my arms by now. However, plans have changed over and over again... but I'm fine letting my bun in the oven "cook" as long as possible.

This morning, I will see both the specialists at Maternal Fetal Medicine and the OB filling in for my doctor. This will be my last appointment before my scheduled cesarean section on July the 19th! That is unless I go into labor beforehand... which would be a miracle in itself given that I haven't dilated a bit. I'm even willing to bet money that I still won't be progressed when they examine me in a bit.

I'm still praying very hard though! I have five more days for it to happen.

These are our last days as a family of three and Jude's last days as an only child. Honestly, this makes me a little sad. My redhead has been my world for the past four years and I can't imagine making him share his title now. But everyone says this is normal and I'll be surprised at how much my heart grows in seconds to love both children beyond belief. I'm waiting for that moment.

Now we still are kind of scrambling to gather things for Sweet Pea. Jude's toddler bed has yet to arrive, so no crib just yet. I still can't make my mind up on a double stroller, so in turn, I still don't have a carseat for my baby. And I never made a decision on which white paint to use, hence the nursery is still "wheat grass" yellow (I loved it at first, but it's starting to really hurt my eyes).

The good news is, the toddler bed should be here Saturday. I can swing into Babies R Us and get a carseat as soon as I make up my mind. And I can probably manage to get the nursery painted Saturday while my hubby is assembling the toddler bed (as long as I make up my mind on what color of white- I could really use some decorating advice here. My trim is bright white, but I want a softer, off or linen white on the walls, would this look bad or anyone done this and have a specific color suggestion???).

Well.. that's really it for now...

Oh and a wee bit of information about the delivery of Sweet Pea for my friends in family- in case I do go into labor and don't have time to get the message out.

To my family and friends who are planning to be present at the hospital during the delivery:

Lane and I requesting that no photos be taken of the baby with your phone until the okay is given. This is to prevent any pictures to be texted or posted onto Facebook. We are also asking that you do not send any texts or make any Facebook posts about the baby- especially the gender and name of the baby! We want to give family and friends who are planning to visit later the opportunity to meet the baby in person instead of via text or Facebook. When we are ready, we will make a birth announcement here on The Mustard Seed. I hope this doesn't upset anyone; Lane and I just feel like since we have patiently waited for this special baby, we would like to have the honor of publicly announcing the birth of our sweet baby and Jude's younger sibling.

Thanks for your cooperation!!

"Sprinkled" with Blessings

2011-07-07T11:17:00.001-05:00

Now that things have slowed down around here for five minutes, I have time to put up a few pictures from my Baby Sprinkle.

Plus, I have Sweet Pea updates at the bottom of the post!

This was Sweet Pea's beautiful diaper cake

made by my beautiful friend, Sarah!

These were my sweet hostesses with the "Thank you" bags I gave them!

By opening their home, sending adorable invitations, making a precious corsage, filling the table with delicious food and the best punch ever, these ladies are absolutely the bestest ever! I was so touched by all the blessings and love that was "sprinkled" -poured would be a better verb- on Sweet Pea and me!

Now for the Sweet Pea news... Yesterday I went back to the specialists at Maternal Fetal Medicine. They did another ultrasound and the baby looked fantastic. They didn't measure the baby yesterday, but said that they would do that next week.

If most of you remember, the doctor last week did not want me to carry the baby past 39 weeks, and that the baby could possibly delivered this week. This news caused some disappointment on my part because it would limit my time on attempting labor and put me delivering when my doctor was out of town. However, as the week went on, my disappointment gave way to excitement and anticipation of the arrival of my Sweet Pea!

Then yesterday, I saw a different specialist with a different prognosis. This doctor felt that my scheduled cesarean section date, July 19th, was fine as long as the baby still looked good at my next visit. (He explained that if the baby was distressed, they would take it that day which is a given.) I was very happy that my doctor would be able to deliver our baby, but not quite sure what to do with the two more weeks we were given to wait after being prepared to have a baby this week. The exciting part is the baby is doing so well. The doctor said that their was really no cause for me remaining a patient, but they would see me one more time until I deliver.

Then, I saw my doctor and shared the news from MFM with her. She seemed just as elated as I was that she was going to be a part of the delivery. We went over my birth plan one final time (since she will be out next week) and talked about what to do if I go into labor before that time. However, examination, once again, showed no dilation or progress towards labor. I even had two contractions during my examination that the doctor noticed. Once again, she was encouraging and told me that a lot could happen in two weeks especially since I am contracting. I did feel encouraged by her words, but I am beginning to mentally prepare myself for a section.

I told Lane that the reason this process is taking so long is because I am too prepared. For those of you who know me, I am rarely prepared for anything and always late for everything. For the past week, I have been breaking my back to get prepared for baby. We have rearranged furniture, cleaned every inch of the house, shampooed carpets, polished floors, washed baby clothes, sterilized feeding supplies, and packed bags for the hospital. I told Lane, I was unpacking the bags and just waiting for the 19th or the "moment" whichever comes first.

Meanwhile, everything is done so I have two weeks to enjoy with my favorite boys and relax. So that's just what I intend to do!

Happy Thursday,

Angel

No Baby Yet...

2011-07-05T12:28:00.000-05:00

Well... I am officially full term; 37 weeks and 6 days! This is the most pregnant I have ever been because my sweet Jude came at 37 weeks exactly!

I was really hoping to go into labor yesterday ;-) I knew my doctor was on call yesterday. But Sweet Pea has decided to stay a little longer. I'm trying not to get discouraged and keep positive. I still have until Sunday to have my doctor deliver this baby...

Unfortunately, I don't have any idea at this point when my Sweet Pea will be arriving. I will see my doctors again tomorrow and will get answers then on when and how the baby will be arriving.

Even though I don't have any answers now, I'm still very excited and anxious that it could be as soon as tomorrow.

Since tomorrow could be the day, I am going to get a pedicure today and relax a little from the busy weekend we had--> Our Jude dude was very sick all weekend, and we spent a lot of time getting ready for the baby.

Well that's really it for now.. since I don't really have any news to share. I'll have my bags packed with me tomorrow just in case, and I'll try to update when I can. Still keeping my fingers crossed to go into labor on my own.

Hope you all had a great holiday weekend. I am going to try to post some cute pics later of what's been going on around the house the past week.

Lots of hugs,
Angel

Buying more time...

2011-06-28T22:07:00.001-05:00

Well... we got some very good reports today!

The first appointment was a little disappointing. My doctor did my examination and found that I hadn't dilated at all! She also said that although the baby had dropped, it was not low enough to cause dilation. I just couldn't understand how I'm not dilated with all the contractions I'm having. She could tell I was disappointed and explained that I wasn't even 37 weeks yet so not to get too discouraged. She also said that although she normally doesn't, that she would induce me if my body started progressing towards labor. We agreed to just wait and see what kind of call MFM made today. So even though I was not pleased with the zero progress I had made, I was okay with the overall plan.

This afternoon, I had my ultrasound at Maternal Fetal Medicine. The baby did wonderful. It practiced it's breathing and moving and got a perfect 8 out of 8 score after about 5 minutes into the test. Then I held my breath as the technician measured everything. She told me that the baby was estimated to weigh about 5 pounds and 3 ounces! That's almost a pound of growth in a week! So the baby is no longer very worrisome; still on the petite side but no longer critical. So the doctor seemed pleased. He said they would continue to see me weekly through the end of my pregnancy. So we are buying time one week at a time.

On the other hand, the doctor does want to take the baby around 38 to 39 weeks via cesarean section. I was overwhelmingly disappointed. He said it is very unlikely that I would go into labor before that time and he doesn't want to leave the baby for the full 40 weeks. He also said that since I will be considered full term next week, that if the baby looks even a little bit worrisome at any point that they will deliver it that day. So he advised me to have me to have my bags in my car at every appointment.

The other very stressful news is that my doctor is out of the office my 39th week. So unless the baby is born next week, I forgo the luxury of having my doctor, my wonderful, compassionate doctor, deliver my Sweet Pea.

I left the office feeling so blessed by the very good news about the baby. However, I was in a new stress over all the disappointing news. Maybe it was the hormones, but I was a mess of tears on the phone with my husband as I left the hospital. I was so happy and disappointed all at the same time. Don't get me wrong, the baby's health takes precedence over my simple desires!! I guess I just wanted an all around typical pregnancy since the my last one went every way but right. But I keep reminding myself that planned sections and different doctors are very typical... and unimportant in the grand scheme of things.

My next appointments are on Wednesday, so we bought one more week to get ready for baby. I actually went to Babies R Us to start slowly gathering things for Sweet Pea. Jude had a lot to share... we already have a swing, bouncer, and we are debating on whether or not to use Jude's crib and put our big boy in a different toddler bed. But a lot of Jude's stuff has been used for nearly FOUR YEARS and would need replacing anyway- I bought a new changing pad cover today since the one we currently have looks awful. This weekend, Lane and I are going back to Babies R Us to buy bottles, a car carrier, a double stroller, and a few other gifts for our Sweet Pea as well as a toddler bed and a couple of new mattresses for our sweet kiddos. I'm so excited but overwhelmed- I'm the MOST indecisive person in the world and I drive myself crazy!! I have been to the baby store and test drove every double stroller and looked at every bottle at least ten times and still don't have a decision on anything :-/ Suggestions welcome ;-) {My indecisive nature is one reason we yet to have a name for our Sweet Pea.}

We are also planning on shampooing all the carpets and painting the children's room (another thing I can't decide on- the right color of white to paint) before next week's appointment.

All this is so trivial, but honestly I am actually welcoming trivial activities right now. I have been through plenty of major activities for the week.

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

Now for some Jude news:

He is still doing wonderful and crawling EVERYWHERE!!! His development has just blossomed over the past few weeks.

Tomorrow we will see his GI specialist because we think his reflux is getting worse and need to figure out something to do about it. The reflux is making eating by mouth next to nonexistent lately.. Not very encouraging on that part. So hopefully we will get some answers tomorrow.

It is an incredibly busy week, but I am so thankful for the path my Father has chosen for me. Hope you all are in His path as well.

Thank you for your prayers for today, and thank you for prayers for my friend! The Lord hears our prayers!!

Preparing for anything...

2011-06-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! I hope everyone is having a great week so far.

Today is the day that I go back to my doctors to check on Sweet Pea's growth and weight gain.

First I will see my regular doctor this morning. Thank heavens she is back because I am really not in the mood for someone new at a time like this. Her appointment will be quick and easy. I'll just get an examination to see if I have made any progress towards delivery. Which I PRAY I have because I've dropped significantly over the past few days and have more and more contractions everyday... so I will be a little disappointed if I haven't dilated any- I'm still aiming to have this baby next week around the 4th through the 8th when my doctor is on call!

I have a few hours after that appointment- so maybe I'll get to swing by and see my cousin who was induced very early this morning, bring my redhead home for a nap, or get some items I need for Sweet Pea from Babies R Us.

Then this afternoon, I will see my doctor at Maternal Fetal Medicine again for another ultrasound and non-stress test on the baby. I have a peace that everything is going to be fine... right now anyway. I'm sure I'll be very anxious walking into the clinic.

They'll be checking first to see if the baby is still growing. Then, they'll check to make sure it is moving well and practicing it's breathing. These little tests will all conclude if the baby is in distress or not and if the baby should be born soon or can wait a little longer.

Now like I said, I do feel a peace right now. I've been praying for this baby for a long long time, and I feel in my heart that despite the baby's size, it's healthy. Plus the baby has been just as active as ever so I feel like it's not in any distress.

Nevertheless, it would be absolutely naive of me to not prepare to hear otherwise. For all I know the specialist will feel that the baby is in distress and decide that today is the day it will come. So I have my bag and Sweet Pea's bag packed in the truck... just in case.

I know I don't even have to ask for prayers. You have all been so faithful to intercede for my family. We are so very blessed by this fact.

That being said, what I'm about to tell you, by no means, is a denial of your prayers. I still covet them greatly! But this morning, when you pray, their is another family that needs your prayers much more than my family. If you would, please lift up the Garcia family in prayer! Kim, my dear friend and one of my redhead's biggest fans, is battling cancer for the second time. She has been given no hope, yet she praises our Father with a fierce determination! Right now, the cancer is bringing her a great deal of pain. Please pray specifically that her pain be taken away, a peace and strength be given to the entire family, that the Lord will do a miracle healing in her body, and most importantly that our sweet Father's precious name is glorified through all of this! Thank you!

I will update on Sweet Pea's status as soon as I have the chance. Lots and lots of hugs to all of you!

Nestings, Sprinkles, and Blessings

2011-06-26T01:05:00.000-05:00

Today has been a very, very nice day.

I woke up before the alarm went off with a need to clean. I was so surprised by this because I taught at Vacation Bible School all week; I figured I would want to sleep in. Instead, my poor sweet husband woke up to his pregnant wife making a "to do" list for the day. From that moment on, I didn't stop... my need to nest was just way too strong.

I dusted, vacuumed, wiped down window seals, mopped, steam cleaned the sofa, cleaned bathrooms, defrosted a freezer, organized, and so on and so on. My mom came by (when I say came by, it's really a planned visit because she lives almost an hour and a half away), but I didn't even stop to sit and visit with her. I kept mopping and talking to her all the while. Actually I was so thankful she stopped by. My redhead was at his limit with cartoons and was about to require some Mommy playtime, but his Maw Maw came in and played with him. All the while, my poor husband was following behind, trying to keep up, and scratching things off the list too. He was so sweet to just give in and let me go nuts.

Next I gathered some tiny little outfits and a couple of blankets and packed them in a diaper bag for the hospital ;-)

Then, while my mom played with Jude, I got ready for my Baby Sprinkle-- I put on my blue dress and my sweet hubby painted my toenails for me since I can't reach them these days.

I headed over to my sister-in-law's house where I was welcomed and loved on by some of the sweetest ladies I know.

I was "sprinkled" with some cute gifts including a precious sweet pea themed baby book and a pedicure from one of my best friends, an awesome Thirty-One bag full of goodies from my girls in the church nursery, some adorable gifts from my Bible Study teacher, a cute sweet pea themed layette from a very sweet lady, the most beautiful diaper cake I have ever seen (I'll never have the heart to take it apart) made by a precious friend who is becoming more dear to my heart everyday, and an abundance of diapers, wipes, and way too generous gift cards from family and friends who love me too much! {I plan to have some pictures up soon!}

Lane, Jude, Sweet Pea, and I are incredibly blessed by all the outpouring of generosity and love!

Tonight, Lane and I were treated to a pancake breakfast dinner by his parents. {I have been craving pancakes for a while now.} We got some good visiting time in and some good food in our tummies.

This week, Lane and I are going to pick up a baby carrier and double stroller, along with some other goodies needed for Sweet Pea's arrival... I can't believe my baby will be here so soon. I have actually had three contractions while typing this post!

Speaking of the baby, I have been feeling much better and much more encouraged about the health of the baby over the past few days. I really believe that everything is fine with the baby. We go back to see my doctor and Maternal Fetal Medicine Tuesday and will find out if the baby is picking up on its growth.

I know everyone is praying hard for us and I could never put into words just how much this means to us! Please keep praying for us. Please pray the baby picks up its growth rate! Please pray for a safe delivery without the need for a cesarian and most importantly for a healthy baby! However, please join us in giving thanks that our Father is who He is and the His plan is PERFECT! We want His precious name glorified through all of this!