As We Grow

What Broke My Heart

2012-01-23T15:11:00.001-05:00

One of the things I love about God and his family is how He provides a means for all of his children to be cared for by putting different passions and heartaches inside each of us.

I just finished reading The Help, way after everyone else, so I pretty much knew what the book is about before I picked it up. But I had no idea what would actually make me cry.

Obviously, we are supposed to commiserate with the maids. And I do. It is so hard to believe that this treatment went on - even goes on today - but it did. And, I thank God for the people He has called to fight the battles of racism, mistreatment in the workplace, and women's rights all over the world. But they did not make me cry.

Most people would not feel any sort of tenderness towards the employers in the book, but I did. How sad. To live your life cow-towing to the popular girl, trying to live up to unspoken standards, always living in fear of losing love, not even aware that you are empty and not experiencing any love at all. To have no idea of your real value, and therefore be unable to treasure the value in others. Women who really didn't grasp the Father's love, or understand what it could be like to be friends with Him. In general, I believe God has called me to walk beside women, and help unlock this relationship with them. During this early season of child-raising, however, I know he has called me to lay that aside and focus on the souls of our babies. So they, also, did not make me cry.

Who made me cry? Mae Mobley.

I know I was supposed to be happy for her Aibee when she was being set free to find out who she could be in the wake of the Civil Rights Movement, but all I could think about was how she was being left alone in a loveless home. Despised. Un-hugged. Ignored. I didn't just cry, I sobbed.

Christmas Dress! (Hand-Made Version)

2012-01-17T20:32:00.000-05:00

Nothing beats the antiques (yes, they are technically antiques) on my little girl!

A First Thought

2012-01-14T21:01:00.001-05:00

In 2007, dear friends introduced us to a new author. They gave us a copy of his latest book, and I read it soon after having Lee in 2008. Then, I tore through every other book he had written - thanks to my MIL, who bought them to read and pass onto me!

But something about that first book touched my heart in a special way. The story of a little boy, abandoned by his dad, and always looking to see if he would return. Wondering if he was valuable, if he was a mistake, if anybody loved him. Now, that boy is a man, and he is interacting with another young boy in the same situation, and all the emotions and memories are flooding back.

Around the same time, I read another book that opened my eyes to the tender heart inside my boy. Three years later, I remember that little heart on his most energetic days, trying train him up in a way that lets him know he is valuable, planned, loved by God and his parents.

What if we could give that kind of love to another little boy?

More Self Serve

2012-01-13T14:40:00.001-05:00

Keep your glasses out of reach!

Self Serve

2011-12-31T20:36:00.001-05:00

One thing I learned about my daughter over the course of the Christmas celebrations: she is self serve at any party tray she can get her hands on. She grazes. Desserts. Appetizers. Candy. Crackers. She overcomes the obstacles in her path to reach the snack food of her choice.

What, Mom? What's weird about this? You moved the tray, so I had to climb up on the diaper bag to get to the grapes.

Get It Right the First Time

2011-12-26T20:47:00.001-05:00

I may have written about this before, but I have noticed something about KW as she passes her milestones. It is that she practices all little parts of a task before actually doing it. For example, when learning to crawl, she would get up on all fours, get her bearings, do some swaying, pick up her knee, then sit back down and scooch. Eventually, she crawled perfectly the first time. Right now, she is still working on perfecting her walking.

This one may be a little different. As in, when Lee (yes, Lee) put her on the truck six weeks ago, her legs were not long enough to reach the floor (so I don't know if there was much to work on). I didn't realize she had grown so much taller since that time, so imagine my surprise when we walked in the other day to find her jetting all over the place! I was really impressed with how well she handled herself her first time behind the wheel.

Christmas Dress! (Store-bought Version)

2011-12-22T21:07:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I posted a Sunday morning picture. I couldn't pass these up.

And, as a side note, her mad "writing" skills are blowing me away. Lee only really started coloring after he was two, and infrequently. Tonight, she took the crayons he had received in his stocking, and started coloring in his coloring book! I guess I shouldn't have left her out!

It's Unplugged

2011-12-21T20:07:00.000-05:00

Sooner or later, they all discover the monitor. And its cord. And how to unplug it (so it beeps incessantly downstairs.) But the pictures are still cute!

She was having so much fun, she bumped her head on the door. So cute!

Smash It Out!

2011-12-20T20:08:00.000-05:00

So far, one of my biggest challenges "doing homeschool" with Lee is that he likes to give me the wrong answer - on purpose. This is very frustrating for me, especially when I suspect he knows the right answer (and we both want to move onto something else). So how to trick him into giving me what I want?

I wrote the letters on an egg carton, and told him he could smash the letter if he could identify the sound I made. Pretty quickly, he was telling me the sounds, then smaaaaashing away!

(The plastic Easter eggs were from an entirely different activity, but he had placed them in the carton. I suggested we take them out first.)

Popped

2011-12-19T21:11:00.001-05:00

Last week, Lee popped the question, and we said yes.

Can she get in the bathtub with me?

Lots of conveniently placed toys and cups! That's my girl! Keep it up, KW.

Little Lady's One

2011-12-09T15:25:00.001-05:00

I could not leave her birthday off the blog. What a celebration I felt inside passing the one year mark with her. What a tough year it was! Newborn, toddler, tiny house, hormones, heat wave. You name it. Just passing her birthday on the calendar made everything feel more manageable.

My favorite picture from her birthday party, compliments of The Godfather.

Saucy

2011-11-15T12:50:00.001-05:00

In some ways (not many), I am more fun with KW than I was Lee. I don't think he has ever looked like this, yet!

Out For a Walk

2011-11-14T15:32:00.001-05:00

I am so glad that both of my kids love to go for a walk in a stroller. With KW turning a year old, my days of burning 500 extra calories a day are quickly coming to an end, and I will have to be throwing them in there again for some real exercise! And the holidays are coming, too! Yikes!

Coordinated leg work!

When did those legs get so LONG?!

Packing Help

2011-11-13T20:52:00.001-05:00

I have not had time to post since the move, but it has not been for a lack of help. For example, Lee helped me pack all the silverware, tupperware, and a jumbo die before we moved.

Bend and Snap

2011-10-17T14:18:00.003-04:00

Thankfully, KW is not really working on her "bend and snap" in these photos. But she was doing her squats so she could "stoop and pick up". It is really fun to watch her in this phase, because there is so much more practicing than went on with Lee. I think one day she will just up and walk, seemingly out of the blue. But there is actually a lot of behind-the-scenes work going on!

Showing Some 'Tude

2011-10-12T22:20:00.003-04:00

The girlie-ness in my little one is starting to emerge. This is a new look I get pretty much anytime. It is as if she is issuing a challenge to me to make her smile or not go drama queen on me about nothing. Sometimes she is in the right. Like, here, she is perhaps trying to tell me not to make her wear her brother's "Chick Magnet" bib.

When her smile breaks, it is the most heart-melting thing. Her nose crinkles as it takes over her face.

Sit and Spin

2011-10-11T13:53:00.002-04:00

I am slowly learning that if I want to catch something KW is doing on photo or video, I ought to pick up the camera. She rarely holds onto a habit for long, and by the time I try to get her to do something, it is over. I have missed capturing several things.

On this day, she was working those legs to turn around and around and around in circles on her bottom. I had seen her do it several times, and apparently, this was the last moments of the last time.

The Catwalk

2011-10-10T14:22:00.005-04:00

Lee has entered a phase where he wants to pick out his clothes all by himself. He also does not mind striking a pose for me to take his picture just before we walk out the door!

First Swing

2011-10-07T14:26:00.004-04:00

Right or wrong, KW either hangs in the carrier or the stroller when we go to the park. We finally put her in a swing a couple of weeks ago, and she loved it. She also showed off her top teeth in the video. I just love how her feet are constantly letting us know when she is thinking, excited, nervous. Always in motion!

Two Little Teeth

2011-10-06T21:51:00.003-04:00

KW finally let me get a picture of her teeth! She actually had at least two up top in these photos, but they seem to be impossible to capture thus far. This will also have to suffice as her 10-month-old photos, as she will be eleven months on Monday! Ha!

May I Hold the Baby?

2011-10-05T15:31:00.003-04:00

Every little girl wants to know if she can hold the baby. It didn't take too long for this to become a bore for Lee, though. He wants more action. When he wants KW to sit on his lap, he asks, "Can I do Walkie with her?"

I love the look on her face!

While the Cat's Away...

2011-10-03T14:34:00.002-04:00

... the mice will play!

Out of the Dust

2011-09-30T13:39:00.005-04:00

There was a book I wanted to read. No telling how long it would have taken me to get around to purchasing it, but - thankfully - a friend sent it to me out of the blue one day. Then I finally read it. Then I finally started my journal (because, of course, I had to get a picture of it without any gifts recorded for this post before I could write anything). And, you know what? It works. Being thankful to God for every circumstance, finding something to be thankful for in the moment. It works. Yet, somehow, my journal keeps getting closed. After all, it is taking up valuable (scarce) counter space. And once it is closed, it takes a momentous day to get me to re-open it and start recording God's gifts to me again. I need this.

This past summer may have been the hardest on record for me, only to be rivaled by the summer of 2003. My boy hit the tremendous three's. I was adjusting to motherhood with two. Our house was teeny tiny. The days were hot, and we were stuck inside together, day after day after day. I didn't get a minute alone to myself for I don't know how long. I cried every day. I screamed and yelled. I was angry, and I don't think I have ever felt so alone and hopeless in a long time. Whew.

I am so glad I finally decided to take this up. Now, only to not put it up. Ever.

I heard a song a month ago that I cannot stop singing. "You make beautiful things. You make beautiful things out of the dust. You make beautiful things. You make beautiful things out of us." I take hope that this is about me. I know it is. "You make me new. You are making me new."

To keep it real - this is what the counter really looks like with my journal on it!

Teeny Tiny

2011-08-19T15:21:00.003-04:00

Even though this post is a little late, the photo was only on the second day after KW's nine month birthday. Love the teeny tiny barrette! It doesn't really stay in yet, but all I needed were a couple of photos.

She wasn't really overjoyed about taking these pictures, but I still think she looks cute as a ... teeny tiny barrette!

Pre-Breakfast

2011-08-11T14:01:00.006-04:00

The other morning, while finishing up KW's morning feeding, I heard the distinct sound of silverware and the refrigerator. There was really nothing I could do, so I waited. Whatever was being done had already been done - no point in stopping him. Just let him have fun. For a minute.

I entered the room, and thankfully did not accuse Lee of anything in my question. (I am so good at that.) This is what I found:

"I got out my yogurt and a spoon and your yogurt and a spoon so we could have yogurt together [pron: togedder]."

Melt my heart. I sat down right away and enjoyed an early morning snack with my little guy.

Frilly

2011-08-09T14:05:00.004-04:00

Had to snap a set of photos of KW in her latest frilly dress before church last Sunday. Love her!

PS - We have a tooth! Going to take a while to get a photo, though - this girl doesn't make it easy!

A Reading by Lee: The Bearenstain Bears

2011-08-03T15:11:00.006-04:00

A little while back, we brought down my old BB books from the attic. Lee had become a big fan when he got a book in a Chick-Fil-A kids' meal. He has since memorized the three books, and his favorite is the one about visiting the dentist. So far, it doesn't seem to help in making him more excited about his own trip to the dentist. Though I have promised him that, if he will let the dentist look in his mouth, I will say, "It looks like a cave. A cave with teeth!"

Need another bedtime story? Enjoy!

Grace Moms

2011-08-02T14:02:00.015-04:00

I think it is natural to like your own kids more than anyone else's. I mean (please), you carried them for nine (ten) months, birthed them, then sacrificed pretty much every moment of your day for them for as long as it took for them to become (sort of) self-sufficient. I also think it is somewhat natural to think your kids are smarter, cuter, and sweeter then most other people's kids. The faulty thinking starts to creep in when you begin to think that your kids are more saved than other people's kids.

I remember the first time I saw one way B and I had set Lee up for failure in the play date department. Because he was our first baby, and he was (of course) cuter, sweeter, and more adventurous then every other baby, we would lie on the floor and let him crawl all over us. And I mean all over us - the head, legs, torso. One morning, I met a new friend at a baby shower, and we found we had several things in common. Our kids aren't the same age, but we set up a play date and looked forward to seeing each other again. When we got there, my almost two-year-old son could not restrain himself from tackling and crawling all over her three-year-old daughter - the head was especially alarming to me. As soon as B returned home that evening, I informed him Lee could no longer climb on us this way. How was he to know who was off limits? And, guess what? He no longer does it. I just didn't think of it until I saw it.

But I still prided myself in the things that Lee did not do - things I heard about other kids doing during the terrible two's. You know, like coming out of their room all night, pitching a fit, grabbing toys, hitting anyone who grabbed their toys, etc. (If you don't se them yet, then wait.) I just thought we were by-passing all that stuff. What a great, easy kid! Not to mention the great job we were doing, right?

This was pretty much how things went until KW arrived. Clearly, behaviors began to surface much faster with a newborn and a newly two-and-one-half-year-old. Lee was - and still is - a grrrrreat! kid. He is simply like every other little one growing up in the world - he is learning his way, he doesn't know if he hasn't been told, and he has a mind of his own.

As I began to swallow my pride, the Enemy saw that my mind was fertile ground. I was uncertain, overwhelmed, and concerned every time I saw something that didn't fit with my idea of the "great" kid. Were these behaviors normal, or extreme? They sure felt extreme to me. Were other boys Lee's age acting the same way? I didn't really have many boys for him to play with on a regular basis, so I didn't really have any point for comparison. Trapped in the house by a finicky napper, my thoughts ran wild.

Enter Grace Moms. Grace Moms know that all kids have their own strengths and weaknesses. They know that each kid is going to exhibit different problem behaviors when they are together. None of them is perfect, and none of them is in the exact same place on their journey to being grown up. And all of them need Jesus. They are made my God, loved by God, and (hopefully) all will grow by leaps and bounds once they meet Him. But most (if not all) of them have not had that meeting yet.

Even more, Grace Moms have grace for each other. They are honest about their babies and help me figure out how to get through my own struggles as I am honest about mine. I am thankful for the Grace Moms in my life, who encourage me, laugh with me, cry with me, and let me mess up as I grow as a parent. They make the choice to love my kids, not because they came from their womb, but because they came from God's. We have the power to build each other up or tear each other down, and the last thing any of us wants to be is a tool for the Enemy. We all have the same ultimate dream for our children: that they will know their Savior.

Thank you, Grace Moms, for letting me love your little ones, as well.

Excused

2011-08-01T13:59:00.003-04:00

This is Lee's idea of being excused from the table: lining up the chairs in a row to make a train. (Anybody remember playing that game?) KW always gets to be the driver. For this reason, he has to wait until she is finished eating before he sets up the rails.

I love how she turns around every time I say her name to get the pictures. I also love how their faces appear to be in sync with the expressions they are giving me, even down to the tilt of their heads. Almost like they planned it!

Lee is so bright because I had to take these photos from the caboose. Toot! Toot!

Toothless

2011-07-29T13:53:00.002-04:00

We still have no teeth, and the smile is just too cute. When she wrinkles her little nose, watch out!

Too Much

2011-07-28T13:42:00.003-04:00

I always do too much. This started to become apparent in our family life about a year and a half ago. I had been working part-time to supplement our family's income. Being able to work with my previous co-workers was a blessing and prevented us from leaning into our savings, while I was able to be home with Lee most days. Sort of.

Looking back, I realize the situation was stressful on us, and not quite ideal, from the family perspective. When KW was born, I was literally scared about being with Lee all day every day. I didn't know how to entertain or keep him occupied, which led to an intense time for both of us as we got to know each other again with a new baby in the mix. Add to that the natural slacking off that happens with a newborn, and we found ourselves struggling to make things flow smoothly by the time spring rolled around. Nursing, discipline, bedtime - all have been testing grounds where we have had to step up to the plate as parents and find out who we are. Will we take the easy way out? What are our rules? What is the highest standard we can uphold?

Since KW joined us, I have learned one thing: if I did not have my sweet Lee, I would be a very lazy momma. His energy and personality keep me honest as I look at the goals we have set out for our kids, and the difficulty in staying the course. How should he behave in public? With his little sister? On play dates? How is his heart developing? I am so thankful for the past six months, in particular, as the "three's" have come on us in full force. I am thankful for the growing pains we have been experiencing; I see growth in all of us.

With all of this on my mind, I decided last week to officially become a full-time, stay-at-home mom. Not sure why this was so hard for me, except I have worked for almost fifteen years, and it feels 100% strange to say no to a flexible opportunity. But, for us, the flexing would be on the family side, and - given the stage of life we are in with our little ones - it is too much right now. God has provided the way out financially, and I need to take it.

So, sayonara to the office for now. Now, back to work!

Chair to Chair

2011-07-20T14:00:00.000-04:00

This is how most mealtimes go - I love it.

Everything Packed

2011-07-19T20:17:00.002-04:00

The other day during his rest time, Lee called out to me to come and see. Come and see what, I asked? "I have everything I need packed for the beach."

Indeed, you have.

Unencumbered

2011-07-17T20:01:00.006-04:00

Last week, Lee took an unprecedented number of naps - well, since the winter, at least - and KW was able to play in their bedroom one afternoon all by herself. She got to sit on the bed, look at the brainy blocks, and put the shapes in her mouth. As you can see, this was a really exciting time.

And - p.s. - the next shot will have to serve as the "eight-month-old" shot, as I forgot to take one today, the second Sunday of the month!

And the Eyes Have It

2011-07-12T14:35:00.001-04:00

I don't even know if I need to write anything. I think their eyes say everything I need to know: "Watch out, Mom."

Budding

2011-07-11T19:44:00.003-04:00

Somebody's showing a little personality!

Practice Joy

2011-07-09T21:15:00.007-04:00

I have been reading a new book, one that has been going around. But, if you haven't thought about picking it up yet, please do!

The thing I love about this author is how she experiences her everyday life - dishes, laundry, teaching six (!) kids, being the wife of a farmer. Her words are honest, raw, revealing. She weaves the spiritual into every aspect of her day. She writes of finding joy, of learning to find it, of practicing the learning to find it. This is how far I have read, and this is where I am today.

So I picked up the camera and captured my two babies playing together. I have been thinking lot about how they may play as they grow older in the same house. And this makes me smile. It brings me joy.

Sans Sand

2011-07-08T14:14:00.001-04:00

Ok, so we forgot to dip her tiny toes in the surf, and we didn't really let her play in the sand, but didn't she look cute for her first trip to the beach?

Another Mention

2011-07-06T13:57:00.004-04:00

It deserves another mention that the bouncy seat will go up to the attic this weekend...

Reservoir Guns

2011-07-05T13:40:00.004-04:00

Our summer Memphis trip is pretty much always determined by when my cousin is going to be in town. And, although I love to see him and his wife, it is really for one reason: to watch our kids play together. Lee adores his cousin, Logan, and this year did not disappoint. Logan taught Lee how to play with his water gun, one that Lee could actually hold, pump, and shoot all by himself (a pretty important criteria these days). The coolest part of this gun is that it will grow with him - for now we can use a small water bottle for the reservoir, and one day, we can graduate to 2L bottles.

Naturally, we quickly had to teach Lee who was an appropriate target (Logan, of course) and who was not (KW, of course). He caught on, though, and they had a great time playing in Kiki's backyard.

Seven Months (and Two Weeks)

2011-06-29T20:49:00.007-04:00

Last week in Memphis, my sister lovingly took some photos of KW, which I will record as her seven month photos. As usual, she did a great job! Enjoy!

Book of Seconds

2011-06-14T13:38:00.005-04:00

I have long ago accepted that KW's baby book will be full of pictures of all her seconds. She is the second baby, after all; it is hard to get a good photo of the first time she does anything. I work hard enough to even pull off the feat - first bath, first cereal, first swim. I can't even seem to get her monthly birthday pictures taken until the second week of the month!

Last week, KW was lowered into the swimming pool for the first time. The water threw her off and it took her a while to figure out how she would like to sit - leaning forward or back - not upright. She splashed the water and sipped it by the time I took her out to feed her lunch. And snap a picture of her first swim.

Alternate Spot

2011-06-13T14:14:00.003-04:00

His first night choosing to sleep outside his bed. Bryan explained we would NOT be coming back into his room, and I guess we really didn't go back in - even to check on him before we went to bed! This is what I found in the morning.

Hardman Family Values

2011-06-07T15:01:00.004-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, we celebrated KW's baby dedication at church. The day felt a little more hectic than Lee's day, but it was just as meaningful. As part of the service, we shared our Hardman Family Values. We did this for Lee's day, as well, but we didn't get it down to memorable words - it was way too rambling. So here is the revised list (there are five, of course):

Faith and Trust in God

Humility

Honesty

Submission to God's Will

Perseverance

That's all I can write now, because - to be honest - the little girl is screaming now and done with her nap!

The Overflow

2011-06-06T14:06:00.003-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about my heart lately. The topic came up in a study our small group was working through about marriage. But I was immediately convicted about my attitude as the mom of a toddler boy. These could be the most demanding work days I have had since 2007. I should have been thinking a lot more about my heart back then, instead of how God could get me out of my current situation. Because I don't want out of this situation - how can I when I love this little boy so much? But if I had thought a little more about it back then, I may have solved some of these heart issues before I entered into an incredibly challenging season of parenting.

How quickly I can snap if I am interrupted in my morning shower. If brother wakes up sister and she is screaming before I am dressed. If he is engaging in unusually boisterous play. How lazy I can be when it is hot outside. When I haven't slept four straight hours in who knows how long. When I have another project I wish I could be working on.

"Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." Luke 6:45

What needs to be inside, coming out? Patience, loving energy, peace. I pray daily for these to grow in my heart in ways they never have before. In ways I have never needed for them to be there before.

We sang a song I love a few weeks ago at church. It is not about the heart. In fact, the topics it brings to my mind are enough for an entirely different post. But the bridge always convicts and brings tears:

"Heal my heart and make it clean

Open up my eyes to the things unseen

Show me how to love like You have loved me

Break my heart for what breaks Yours

Everything I am for your Kingdom's cause

As I walk from earth into eternity.

Hosanna

Hosanna in the highest."

(Hillsong United)

God save us.

Reminiscing

2011-05-31T14:19:00.004-04:00

We finally put the exersaucer back together for KW.

First, Lee took a walk down memory lane.

Then, KW got a chance to try it out.

And, of course, Minnie got a turn, too.

Advanced Abs

2011-05-28T07:47:00.004-04:00

Continuing evidence that the bouncy seat will not serve as a highchair much longer.

A Full 360

2011-05-27T13:39:00.002-04:00

KW now rolls all the way around. I know because I came into the room after having left her on her back, and she was on her tummy. I asked Lee if he helped her, and he told me that she rolled over "all by herself". I have yet to see her roll over once, mind you. Wait, I think I did see her once since then. The second child, I guess!

Comforting

2011-05-26T13:57:00.004-04:00

Lee has been practicing his comforting skills - on Minnie (of course) and KW.

"Shhhhhh"

The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.

One Week Late

2011-05-25T13:38:00.002-04:00

Fever + Shots + Growth Spurt + Teething = Late for the six month pic

Upside Down

2011-05-19T15:05:00.002-04:00

She really likes to do this with her paci. I love the bottom lip.

A Modern Day Piñata Story

2011-05-16T13:44:00.006-04:00

Last weekend, we celebrated the birthday of a little girl very near and dear to us - Piper Smith. (Or, as I lovingly call her, the Pipester.)

Although Piper was only turning one, she thoughtfully filled a piñata full of treats for the older kids at her party.

Of course, they went in for the treats immediately after one of the moms got the thing open!

This was apparently a first piñata for the guests, because we had to show them that they should fill their bags full of the raisins, fruit snacks and suckers after it all fell on the ground. When the booty bags were all full, I had to snap a picture of the leftovers.

That's right, folks - the kids filled their bags with all the raisins and fruit snacks and left the candy on the ground. They left all the candy!!!

I am happy to report that Lee made a wise choice later on and ate a cupcake, because - please - all he ever gets at home is raisins and fruit snacks! It's good to see all our training about wisdom is sinking in!

All Things Baby

2011-05-12T14:05:00.000-04:00

I have begun to attempt to feed KW solids. I made Lee's food from the beginning, and he ate every bite. Not so with little sister. There is a lot of grimacing, gagging, and even the subsequent up-chuck one night. I can't tell if it is the taste or the texture, so I have bought some stage 1 foods and try those to see what happens before I become alarmed. You can pray for Bryan that this works, or he will be having lots of conversations with me about why, why not, how to, etc. get this girl to eat solids.

But we still try. And Lee - who likes to try all things baby for himself - asked to try the rice cereal. He did not ask for a second bite.

Oh, and did I mention that "Henry" is now being potty trained?

180

2011-05-11T13:51:00.002-04:00

This is the photo I snapped when I returned to my room to find KW had rolled from front to back. This was two weeks ago, and the event has not yet been repeated, but I sit with camera and patiently wait.

Snaps

2011-05-10T13:54:00.002-04:00

Lee is suddenly into undressing - his Dapper Dan monkey, his dolls, and his sister. I went to check the weather the other day before dressing KW, and I returned to find that he had already undone her snaps for me. I think he would have removed the whole sleeper, but it is a little snug, and I think he got stuck!

I'll Eat Eggs

2011-05-09T13:42:00.004-04:00

Lee's first Easter egg hunt started off with a bang. Until egg seven or eight. It popped open, Lee saw the candy inside, and that's all she wrote. Later, my mom asked him if he would like to have a little lunch, and he replied, "No thanks, I think I'll just eat eggs."

Diaper Change

2011-05-03T14:01:00.005-04:00

To help Lee adjust to KW's arrival, he got a little baby doll for Christmas, complete with a pacifier and a bottle.

KW got a Minnie, which Lee quickly adopted as his own. He feeds her, covers her with a blanket when she naps, and reminds me to be quiet while she is sleeping. He "settles her down". Recently, he told me that she can't move too much yet, but she is starting to grab onto toys when you hold them out for her.

Then Lee got his very own Cabbage Patch doll. He wears a diaper and has a little boy outfit. After an unusually quiet rest time, I went in Lee's room and noticed a distinctive smell. It took me a minute to realize it was baby wipes. An entirely full package emptied into the trash can, to be exact. Apparently, Cubby needed a diaper change. When I commented to Lee that we don't need to use the entire package to clean him up, I was told, "But, Mommy, it was a poopy blowout."

Half Turn to the Left

2011-04-20T14:13:00.005-04:00

I know, I know. Every child is different, and they develop on different timetables, blah, blah, blah. But we are coming up on a full month after Lee rolled over, and KW shows absolutely no interest. None. Nada. Oh, she will look at something over her shoulder, sometimes even arch her back. If she really wants it, she will flick her hand at it, maybe even ooch till she can grab it. But doesn't ever try to roll to get it. This pretty much sums up her feelings about rolling:

So, I decided to help her. Just a little bit. Just to roll her over on her side, so she could get used to that feeling. I had planned on rolling to one side, then the other, when she turned the rest of the way!

Yea, I was about that excited until I remembered she didn't actually roll over. But I will rejoice in this ninety degree turn until she does.

Undone

2011-04-19T15:49:00.003-04:00

Slow and steady wins the race. Nine months up, nine months down. Diastasis recti. Basically this means that if you see me before I have eaten anything for the day, you will think, "Wow. Amelia is really looking good after only five months." If you see me after I have eaten one bite - and for the rest of the day - you will think, "Wow. Amelia looks like she is still pregnant." Don't be jealous. Please. Or, maybe you should.

"Therefore I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy,

to offer your bodies as living sacrifices,

holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship."

Romans 12:1

This post has been percolating for a while now - almost forty days, to be exact. For isn't is appropriate to consider these things when we are in the midst of the season of sacrifice? Remembering the physical sacrifice Christ made for us, so we would one day be free from these bodies once and for all?

"There [is] no more fitting way

to celebrate Easter

than in a body that has been undone on behalf of another."

R. Jankovic, Loving the Little Years

And so, isn't this body really a gift? A daily life of sacrifices made for others, so I can better know my Savior? So I can become more like Him as I push down my own desires for feeling well, looking well, sleeping well?

"He knows exactly how you're feeling

and invites you to turn this difficult moment of sacrifice

into a profound place of intimacy and understanding with him."

G. Thomas, Sacred Parenting

A moment, that is all. I already know how fast this time goes, because I am looking at the slender, lengthening legs of my two-year-old even as I squeeze the chunky ham hocks on my baby girl. It is only a moment, and it will be gone. And I, too, will have grown. I want it to be in His direction. Towards wisdom, prayer, self-control, patience.

Crunches

2011-04-14T15:19:00.003-04:00

One way you know the bouncy seat is on its way out. KW is trying to send me a message with her Pilates moves, but I am ignoring it so far. I look at it as helping her develop her abs for sitting on her own.

Summer Dress

2011-04-12T13:44:00.002-04:00

I was so excited to be able to put KW in this dress, at least once. It is one she borrowed from her cousin, and I thought she might not be able to get into it by summer. And, for her five month birthday pictures, too!

Old Sales Footage

2011-03-25T13:29:00.003-04:00

The information discussed here is from last September, but I am pretty sure the features and benefits are still current. A must-listen if you are in the market for a monitor.

There may be a future here.

Pretty Awesome Gift

2011-03-24T14:17:00.000-04:00

Last year, my sister launched a business. To build her portfolio, she spent time taking pictures of me throughout the stages of my pregnancy with KW. She gave up time on every visit, and says she loved it. She sure made me feel special, and I wanted to share a few of my favorites.

About half way through

In the third trimester

With Lee

Labor and Delivery

The pizza we ate before we left for the hospital

Hindsight was 20/20 on the L&D shots. Apparently, most of the labor was at home, but we were waiting to go to the hospital to start taking pictures. She took what she could in the three minutes of delivery that she was present! (She also took our announcement pics.)

KW's first bath

KW at 7 weeks

More hindsight, but I was too worried about everybody's schedules to do a newborn shoot at two weeks (when sis took our Christmas card pics), and the girl was too old to get any of those fun sleeping naked shots by the time we did this. But, we managed to still squeeze her into the little suitcase!

Chloe, thank you for this wonderful gift! I love you!

A Reading by Lee: Make Way for Ducklings

2011-03-18T16:20:00.005-04:00

I didn't edit anything out, so you may want to only watch if you like listening to Lee. A couple of items to note before hearing your bedtime story:

- Lee does not like for us to take movies or pictures of him, so you will hear him ask Bryan to stop. We are not being mean by taping him, though!

- One night, Bryan called the policeman George, instead of Michael. Lee loves this, and thus the references to George at the end.

Neutral

2011-03-17T13:29:00.008-04:00

This picture makes me want to mention three things:

One

The font - When Lee wore this onesie, I felt the font was a little too girlie. Still do think it is much more perfect-o for KW. Gender neutral is just not always neutral. For example, I have a lot of "gender neutral" sleepers that I received as gifts for Lee (we did not know he was boy until he popped out). When KW wears these, I just think they look like boy clothes. I can't help it. I also have a bunch of sleepers on loan from my niece (shout out to Arden!), and when KW wears these, I think they look like girl clothes, and I can't imagine putting them on a boy.

Two

The growth - No matter how many times you have a baby, I bet you are flabbergasted by how fast they grow. You are never in neutral. I mean, we have just rounded the four month mark, and she is outgrowing her 3-6 month clothes. You can't tell from the picture, but she is sporting a classy v-neck with this outfit. I had to grab my Baby Bulldog pics while I could!

Three

The toys - So glad I have kept all of Lee's toys. I never used lovies with him all much, but KW can't keep her hands off 'em. Of course, this baby UGA goes perfectly with the over-the-top themed outfit, but it also is red, white, and black - easy for baby eyes to focus on.

Tree Hugger

2011-03-16T07:48:00.005-04:00

A shot from the four-month birthday. It is easier to sit her up now; her "helping" makes her look like she is doing a crunch. Well, she probably is. I do not wish this time away, but I can't wait for her to sit up, so I can dress her in her tutu for these pics!

(We are still unbiased... the shirt is from her cousin's wardrobe - but SO cute! Plus, most of you know we are not really unbiased about anything, anyway. But we do love a tree, for sure.)

Unbiased

2011-03-15T15:54:00.002-04:00

My little granola (note the artsy hat and eating homemade granola)...

... and my little conservative (note the elephant wear)

Distracted

2011-02-28T15:36:00.003-05:00

It's hard to grab your toes when you can't stop looking at your ring finger!

Can-Can

2011-02-25T15:18:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love to get her dressed up to go out. My little doll. That's right - I said it - she is my little doll baby.

Not sure how I feel about the Moulin Rouge moves, though!

Everybody's First Splinter

2011-02-24T15:21:00.004-05:00

That's about as much of a smile as we could get out of this little guy after the operation - and I do mean operation. And, yes, he looks completely worn out from the crying and drooling. Poor little guy.

I had put off this day as long as I possibly could. Let those suckers work their own way out, I say. Just check every day and make sure they are not getting red.

But when he showed me this one, my mommy conscience just would not let me leave it inside his body. I wish I had thought to take a "before" pic. Truly huge and gross.

To make matters worse, the tip broke off the first time I unearthed it, so we had to wait until after bath time and start again. With a very unwilling participant. He was very brave and held fairly still, but it broke my heart to hear him keep crying and saying, "I don't want to, Mommy. Please don't do it!"

But Bryan held him still, and I just keep sticking the needle in further and further to pull out the wood. We were trying to pump him up as it got close to sticking out - we were so excited, because we knew it was almost out! Needless to say, we could NOT get him on board with the excitement, so we just finished the job.

A little ointment, a band-aid, a few hugs and kisses, and the healing could begin.

We have told him many times not to play with the mulch at the park, but I think he is going to remember a little better next time.

An incredible glimpse into my Father's heart - why He tells me to avoid something, what He must be thinking when he sees the result of my deciding not to avoid it, how He holds me even as He is digging out the wood, how it hurts to hear my protesting cries, the excitement He feels as He gets close to uprooting my sin, and - finally - the hugs and kisses as He sends me on my way to healing.

Now, for the next lesson...

Unconventional

2011-02-23T14:43:00.003-05:00

I do the things the conventional way. Call me the oldest child, type A, rule follower - whatever you wish. You may also want to throw in "doesn't think outside the box". Add a love for neatness, and you have me down. I do like to try out every which intended way a thing can work, though. I remember when I was a kid wanting to follow every path as far as it would lead (but no further), and I was bummed about backtracking when a path ended. I still only really like to hike loops trails or from point A to point B with a pick-up car.

I am hoping not to impose this way of experiencing life on my kids, and last week at the park, I really had to bite my tongue when Lee decided to climb up the spiral steps, and slide out of the playset on his belly. This included a set of stairs, a bridge, another set of stairs, and a little throwing of mulch into the air at the end.

Make your own rules, son.

Served Late

2011-02-22T14:28:00.003-05:00

It probably comes as no surprise that breakfast is served late these days around this house. The other day I came out from dressing KW, and I found that Lee had already prepared a breakfast for himself and Minnie, and he was heartily eating it!

Valentine Plate

2011-02-18T13:52:00.003-05:00

I was reminded last year of a tradition my mom had for us. Each Valentine's morning, her valentines for us were placed under our overturned breakfast plates. How special they made us feel.

I loved watching Lee's delight at being allowed to eat the chocolate sucker Toddy sent to him before he ate his breakfast!

First Outfit, Compared

2011-02-17T15:26:00.004-05:00

Last Sunday, KW wore her first outfit to church for the last time. Let's just say that she would have been showing some serious midriff had she been without her undershirt!

Here's a couple of cute bouncy seat poses when we returned home:

And one when we arrived home from the hospital, for comparison:

Look at her, with the shirt up around the ears and the sleeves rolled up!

We Broke Out!

2011-02-16T13:34:00.005-05:00

During the recent snow storm, there was more news coverage than you could ever wish for - or need - about people and how they were dealing with the snow. My favorite guy was at a restaurant talking about how they had been stuck in the house for two days and really had to get out for a meal. Really? REALLY?! I'll see you your cabin fever and I'll raise you two months plus a two-and-a-half year old! Oh, and I'll throw in 1150 square feet while I'm at it!

Needless to say, we took advantage of the nice Saturday and fed the ducks this past weekend. One goose was especially friendly, and Lee liked her, because he couldn't throw the food enough to attract the other birds. At one point, he yelled,

"Goose, Goooooooose!"

"Come here [to] me, and eat"

"This foooooood!"

I know all those punctuation marks are incorrect, but it looked weird if I left them off.

And, lest you think we left KW out of all the fun - no worries - she was there, too!

One Quarter

2011-02-15T15:33:00.005-05:00

That just sounds more fun than "three months old". I wasn't feeling inspired for a three-month old photo of KW, since we were - quite literally - at the bottom of the laundry barrel last week. So I decided to take several shots of her throughout the morning.

On the boppy

Excellent legs!

Playing cars with Lee

Baby Care 101

2011-02-14T13:58:00.005-05:00

Lee gave me a little lesson on giving a baby a bath last week.

First, you need your bucket of cleaning supplies and a sponge.

Then, you give her a good spray down with the bottle of cleaner.

Then, wash her tummy.

Let the water out, and you're all done!

Wrinkles

2011-02-13T20:47:00.004-05:00

The other day I managed not only to wash and dry two loads of laundry, I ironed everything before B made it home. This was nothing short of a housekeeping miracle! Of course, I had to serve breakfast for dinner, and we didn't eat until 7:20, but that is beside the point.

The chore is certainly not my strong suit, and I find men's clothing is quite unforgiving. KW sat with me while I ironed, and as I explained what I was doing, I mentioned to her that I always seem to iron wrinkles into the shirts, even as I am trying to iron them out!

How is it that the same heat that ironed a wrinkle into a shirt is unable to iron it out? The wrinkle has not been allowed to cool, so presumably it should not be set yet. But try as I might I can not get those wrinkles out. The best I can do is to smooth them out a little, and dull the edges. The only thing that is going to get that wrinkle out is to wash that shirt again.

Isn't sin like that, too? I say the words I wish I could take back, I compromise a principle just once, I take the easy way out. And, even if I go back with the same heat and energy - even if I go back four or five extra times - I really can't undo what's been done. The burning, itching wound may heal, but the thin silvery scar will always be there. That is, until it is washed clean by the unseen hands of the One who loves us.

This is why we can sing, "You have new mercies for me everyday, Your love never fails."

The Happy Warden

2011-02-09T14:29:00.002-05:00

Looks like today there were multiple offenders. I have no idea why. I asked him, but he was tight-lipped about it.

Highly Efficient Scrapbook Plan

2011-02-08T16:29:00.005-05:00

I have this grand idea to make both Lee's and Katie Wilkes' scrapbooks at the same time. I plan to create one layout, then just copy it with boyish or girlish paper in the other child's book. I kid you not - I look through Lee's photos each month to try to make sure I get some similar shots of KW, so I don't have to think too hard to make the books different! In my head, this is going to make the scrapping process way fast. More on that later, though... I am still finishing up our honeymoon right now!

I have this wonderful photo shoot I did of Lee when he was tiny. I had brought him into the bed one morning because his pajamas had gotten dirty, and he was swaddled horribly, but I wanted him to let me sleep longer, anyway. It worked, and I got some ultra-cute pictures of him.

My dilemma was that I had no way of knowing if I would ever capture similar pictures of KW. Thanks to a stuffy nose, I got a good set of photos this past weekend. Some are blurry, but I couldn't help but share.

Incidentally, the trick would have worked and bought us some time, but Lee wouldn't allow it!

One Touch

2011-02-07T16:35:00.002-05:00

The pregnancy was heavy and hard. The baby came fast and furious. With two little ones at home, I barely kept my head above water. Lee and I had not spent every day together for over a year and a half. In many ways, we had to get to know each other again. Often, Bryan and I devised a game plan and executed it perfectly. What teamwork! But, there has not been much time for looking into the eyes that once swept me away.

One evening, as I turned the corner into the kitchen, and Bryan was coming from the kids' room to our bedroom, he reached over and touched my shoulder. Briefly. I turned and looked at him, and said, "Thank you for touching me!"

One touch. This is where it began. We were here before these two precious ones.

This week marks the end of my self-appointed maternity leave. What, you might ask, does this mean for a stay-at-home-wife-and-mom? Well, for this lady, it means I will get up and take a shower before my kids rise.

Baby steps, right? (Pun intended.)

Sous Chef

2011-02-02T22:06:00.003-05:00

I have had a new helper in the kitchen the past few days. While I am very excited about his interest, I am going to need to modify the way I do a few things for us to get dinner on the table in a timely manner. We also are going to have to learn about knives, and why only grown-ups touch them! ALso, I should probably help him pour things until he has great timing and tumping skills. But, all in all, a fun night!

Shelling edamame

Self-appointed job of cleaning butter off the wrapper (and licking the fingers, of course!)

Artsy?

2011-02-01T20:53:00.003-05:00

Most of you know, Bryan and I are not artsy. But, Lee, he might be. He helped B wash the car on Sunday, and he insisted on wearing this hat, even though it was in the 60's outside, and totally unnecessary. The style not only looks artsy, but what is the definition of artsy clothing, if it is not outerwear worn when there is absolutely no reason to wear it? :)

Failure to Comply

2011-01-31T13:37:00.006-05:00

Needless to say, KW still does not think too much of tummy time. This is pretty much what she does for five straight minutes - face to the mat, screaming. Can you see how red her face is? M.A.D.

I would like to say I do this with her every day, but that would be untrue. If I did, she would perhaps get the hang of it.

Then, we turn her over and play on her back.

Much better.

First Dance

2011-01-30T16:49:00.005-05:00

Katie Wilkes' cousin, Addy, came over for their first play date last week. They are only eight days apart, which is very fun! While they pretty much slept through the entire "date", we were able to get a few pictures before they left.

I think we can all look forward to some rockin' choreography from these two girls in the future...

Deep Roots

2011-01-21T15:41:00.003-05:00

"Trees with deep roots know about the things children need."

- Brian Andreas, from "Deep Roots" in Mostly True

The only way I know to grow deep roots is to spend more time with The Master Root. Then, He will daily let me know what my children need. Otherwise, I could possibly go to bed every night wondering if I did more damage than good. Instead, I can rest in the peace of knowing that His Word was my guide and his will was done. Most days, at least.

Hung Up

2011-01-20T15:35:00.000-05:00

I wonder what he did.

Here

2011-01-19T15:09:00.006-05:00

Reading about The Year of Here today. I feel challenged to experience my second child as much as I experienced the first. Not in the same ways, but the same amount. To enjoy the ways the days are different, and the ways they are the same. To document their lives, and mine. To reflect on how we are all growing to know Him more, and how we are merely looking at a list of ways we should be.

I am thinking about the law. How to be free from it, to live fully in grace, and to let that word seep into our marriage and our parenting and our world. Not our world, like "peace on earth", but the world we encounter every day. The neighbors, friends, and co-workers.

And in all these things, I long to experience Him, every day, every moment. Not at a prescribed time, not at a prescribed place. The life I lead this week does not allow for such structure. But, instead, to let Him seep into me, my moments, my emotions, my interactions. And, to do all this not in my own strength.

"Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?" Gal. 2:3

I will go back to the Spirit, and to allow Him to be here, in this moment, in these days, in these thoughts.

Sitting Up

2011-01-17T15:36:00.001-05:00

Not really, but it made you click to read! Baby Girl is two months old! Ok, so I took this picture last week, but whatever.

Ill Prepared

2011-01-16T21:10:00.006-05:00

So, I guess you know really never see snow when your kid wears his fleece suit and it's pulling down to a v-neck. Or is it when you put gloves on his hands with plastic sandwich bags held on with rubberbands as the waterproofing layer? Thank goodness for Logan's rain boots! Outdoor winter wear is definitely on the list for next year!

Ready to hit the snow!

Katie Wilkes didn't see too much snow, and I actually bundled her up too much! When she got fussy and I took her inside, she was sweating!

Room For Two

2011-01-15T20:46:00.002-05:00

Yes, I staged this photo. No, their room never looks like this. But I needed the pics for KW's baby book.

Fear and Trembling

2011-01-14T15:43:00.005-05:00

For those of you who base your daily email devotion on me (there may be one out there), I have switched. To A Holy Experience. A very cool blog that I subscribed to receive in my email box each morning. Her writing is wonderful, and each day brings me to my knees in some area. Warning - it's not a Bible study. But that is not what I am looking for - I need to be driven to prayer, to dependence, to growth. To be inspired to think beyond the surface of my life filled with laundry, diapers, and trying to figure out what I will put on the table for dinner. To remember that I am more - a soul, a woman, a God follower.

I sit writing this as I listen to my littlest one "cry it out". Isn't this what every mother dreams of? For those of you who disagree with my decision, I only let her cry for a few minutes right now - she is still tiny, after all. And, I struggle immensely with the method myself - not in theory, but in practice - so if you must share your opinions, please be gentle. :)

Anyway, as I write and listen, I re-read a post and contemplate fear. I acknowledge the truth that I will never stop being afraid to offer myself wholly to anything or anyone without a fear of failure, rejection, disappointment. Raising children. Discipline (for myself or my children). Homeschooling. Leading. Pursuing anything that is dear to my heart. But God promises me that he will accomplish these things through me.

"For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power." 1 Corinthians 2:2-4

And, just as I was about to go and get her, she stopped. Now, she is sleeping peacefully - like a baby, you might say.

Marriage Retreat 2011

2011-01-10T17:15:00.003-05:00

This past weekend, Bryan and I went to my father-in-law's corporate loft in Atlantic Station for our annual "marriage retreat". Each year, we discuss and plan the yearly budget, house projects, vacation time, and how we can be better marrieds and parents, in general. It is a weekend we both look forward to, and we will do most anything to make sure we do it each January.

This year, we took KW with us, since she is nursing. Here, you see she is up and rarin' to go for the 2011 Budget session.

Apparently, she found the content to be less than engaging.

I always leave this weekend giving thanks for my marriage. During my engagement, a friend told me that I had waited for the diamond in the rough. I only had to find one, and I did.

Sweet Sibling Moments

2011-01-09T21:31:00.003-05:00

Y'all I actually have some real things to write about that have been on my heart, but my brain is so tired. So, for now, I post pictures of my daily life with my babies.

Baby Boppy

2011-01-03T14:21:00.002-05:00

Lee got a little boy baby doll for Christmas, complete with a ba-bish (that's a pacifier in our house). I have one of those donut pillows I use when we go on car trips to keep my head somewhat level while I snooze. When we returned home, this pillow was in the den, and Lee got a great idea.

He is helping out more and more with Katie Wilkes, and does not like to hear her cry for long. My, she does have a passionate cry! Nor surprisingly, he has mastered the skills of picking up her ba-bish - without touching the nipple - and putting it in her mouth! And he talks to her softly as he does this. It warms my heart... and frees my hands for a minute!

Cleaning Crew

2011-01-02T14:47:00.003-05:00

Perhaps the best quote from Lee over the holidays came when he received his cleaning cart. "Oh my gosh! I'm gonna clean.the.house!" He proceeded to sweep everything in the immediate area. When we asked him to look up and smile for the camera, he replied, "I'm working."

We're looking forward to the extra help around the house. :)

His Only Request

2011-01-01T22:20:00.011-05:00

The only thing Lee wanted for Christmas was a reindeer. Bryan had bought him a Rudolph on a business trip before he even knew this was Lee's request! Rudolph now lives in the crook of Lee's arm.

(I love the static in his hair from the car seat in this one!)

Grandfather Blanket

2010-12-29T12:27:00.000-05:00

Is there anything better?

Gotta Start Somewhere

2010-12-13T15:25:00.007-05:00

Now that I am back at home full time with the kiddos, I sometimes read the blogs I grew to love before I went back to work. The other day, I read an especially timely post about the contentious wife. Timely, because I don't know anyone who gets it all done when there is a newborn in the house, and timely, because I am so hard on myself about creating the family experience of the future. What I mean by this is that I have a vision of what I want our family to be - memories, traditions, etc. - but I expect myself to have created this NOW. How can this be? Not only are we only three Christmases into being parents, I will stifle the Spirit in our household if I pick a bunch of random traditions now, refusing to adjust to personalities, likes, dislikes, and new finds in the future.

Case in point: the Advent Calendar. Last year, I asked my mom to knit me twenty-five mittens so I could make an Advent Calendar - a garland hanging over our dining table with mittens full of candy and gifts to count down the days to Jesus' birth. I was going to sew numbers on the mittens and attach a pom-pom to each one so they can be thrown over the garland. She completed the mittens, but due to a mailing snafu with Bryan's travel schedule, said mittens were not in the house until December 8. No pom-poms, and I hadn't even stuffed the mittens yet.

At first, I was going to scrap the whole thing for this year; Lee would not have known what an Advent Calendar was unless I told him, right? But then I read the post, and decided to stop fighting with myself. I stuffed those mittens, threw them in a snowman gift bag, and set them on the table for breakfast the next morning. May I say the snowman was a huge hit, the first mitten's gift was a huge hit, and now, Lee keeps telling me Christmas is the day Jesus gets here.

Who cares that we have only fifteen days of Advent in the Hardman house this year? We will not have missed the point in our short celebration, and there is always next year to hang the thing up and go all out with Advent.

And, please know, the adults have their own little Advent "calendar" hidden in the pantry...

One Month Down

2010-12-12T15:56:00.003-05:00

I really can't believe it - doesn't everyone say that? It gets so old to hear, but it is so true! Our little girl is already one month old, and already going to her first office party! Here she is all decked out for the event.