My life as Jude's mama

Scripture...

2011-01-16T08:15:00.002-05:00

January 16th-22nd

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

Scripture...

2011-01-10T14:40:00.003-05:00

Our second scripture:

January 9th-15th

Psalm 126:3 (NKJV)
The LORD has done great things for us, And we are glad.

Scripture...

2011-01-02T14:31:00.000-05:00

We are teaching Jude a scripture each week. It is awesome because he loves to learn and what better to learn than the Word of God!

January 2nd-8th

Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Happy Birthday Jude...

2011-01-01T21:37:00.001-05:00

Jude is now four! I am really sad that time goes so fast! It seems like only yesterday... Do you remember when you were younger and you heard that phrase and you thought how silly it sounded. We now I say it only seems like yesterday that Jude was born, that Jude learned to crawl, that Jude learned to walk and so on.

Happy Birthday my sweet boy!

Have you ever wondered...

2010-06-08T19:07:00.003-04:00

Have you ever wondered why we go through trials or pain? Hurts or disappointments? I often wonder "what is the point?" of some of the things I have been through in my life. Why did I have this struggle or go though this hurt or suffer from this??? I think most of us have said, "Why God?" more times than we count. But I found a clear answer today while reading a Julie Clinton devotional.

Her exact words were "God often uses the most painful parts of our lives to heal others and bring them to Him." The bible clearly states, He is the "God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us." (2 Corinthians 1:3-5 MSG)

Are you still holding on to hurt? You know that we serve a God who is wanting us to call on His Name! The name that is above every other. He can give us perfect peace and freedom, He can heal the hurt or anger. Only He can. All we have to do is ask and really give it over to him.

What have you been though? How can it help someone else facing the same situation?

Precious Heavenly Father, I love you and thank you for this wonderful day. Please forgive me for questioning you and your plan. I know you have a perfect will for me. Show me and guide me in your will. Empty me of me and fill me with more of you. Give me wisdom while I help others going through the same struggles that I have faced. Let others see Your glory and love through me. In the precious name of Jesus, AMEN!

I love Summer...

2010-06-04T21:15:00.004-04:00

I was excited about work moving from three days a week to two, not babysitting everyday but Thursday afternoons and about going to the pool two or three times a week. So far, so good. I am still a little busy but I hey I have only had one week of my new schedule.

I have lots of things planned for the summer! Jude is going to have such a fun summer with Splash Country, Dollywood, Chattanooga and Knoxville Zoo, Picnics and Play dates. I can't wait to get the camera out and start scrap-booking.

I will keep you all posted on our adventures.

Compassion International...

2010-05-25T10:59:00.006-04:00

I went to a womens conference about a month ago and while I was there I decided to sponsor a child Through Compassion International. I finally got a sponsor # and have everything set to start writing letters and sharing God's love with this child.

Today, I am writing my first letter to my sponsored child. I explained to Jude and his friend Cora about "P" (he is a 3 year old boy from Nicaragua) and they were super excited to color him some pictures. I loved their enthusiasm! Almost made me cry!!! :) It is amazing! I think a lot of times God's love and compassion shines so much brighter through kids. I am so proud of them today!

Precious Heavenly father, I love you. I thank you for this beautiful day and for another day to share you with my readers. Thank you for the opportunity to be involved in P's live. I hope that we will be a light for P and his family! May you bless them and keep them safe. In Jesus name I pray! Amen.

If you are interested in Compassion International please click the on the Compassion tab. It is a direct link to their page. There are many more children out there that needs sponsorship.

Random Thoughts...

2010-05-24T14:57:00.004-04:00

I love when I over book myself. Have you ever done that? I have three places to be tonight and only one me. :) I had to really think about what I would rather do. I have a Relay for Life meeting (our last one), girls night out (with co-workers) or sing with the praise team at district revival! I chose singing for several reasons. Mostly because I went to revival last night and remember how awesome last years revival was and I reminded myself that God is the gift giver or talent giver. So I feel like he is the reason I sing. I love to sing His praises and worship HIM! I also love to be in His presence.

Last night during service I realized that I am always doing things for other, I am always putting myself and my needs on the back burner. I love one of the verses used in last nights message. Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)"Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

I am reminded that we need Joy in our lives. Pure Joy that only one can give. We must focus and remind ourselves of that daily. Singing is part of my Joy. It was a gift that God gave me when I was in my mothers womb. When he created me. WOW. Thnk about that. A gift he gave when he thought of me. Amazing. I think that is one of the reason that doing it gives me joy.

Think about this: What gives you Joy? Who is your daily strength? Who can compare?

Precious Heavenly Father, I love you! I thank you for your daily strength, for the gifts you give and for loving me. I praise your Holy and wonderful name. I ask that you empty me of me and fill me with more of you! Help me to walk the life you have for me. I want to always show your love and compassion. In the precious name of Jesus I pray, Amen

Why I love CVS...

2010-05-12T21:57:00.003-04:00

Really it is more like "WHY I LIKE COUPONS" but I mostly do my shopping at CVS because.............. I get this:

$42.96 worth of merchandise for $6.84. Yes, you heard me $6.84. I know that some are so much better at the coupon thing but that is with the MILK (4.18 a gallon) which you can't get a coupon at all for. So I am extremely happy!

Trusting in God...

2010-05-11T15:41:00.002-04:00

Today, I had an interview. I am praying for God's will. If I get the position I will be extremely happy and if I don't then I will be just as happy! I love being in a place where I can trust in him at all times.

2010-02-01T13:34:00.001-05:00

Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

May your Christmas be warm...

2009-12-02T21:56:00.004-05:00

I love fall...

2009-10-26T19:58:00.005-04:00

Have I ever told you that fall is my favorite time of the year! Well, it is. I absolutely love it.

Today, I had some time for myself and I am chose to go to a local park and take pictures. I love the leaves. All the colors are so beautiful!

So blessed...

2009-10-13T07:58:00.002-04:00

I just want to thank Jesus for the many blessings that I have been given and for all the blessings to come.

I love my family sooooo much. I truly have a wonderful husband and a great kid! He is so much fun! I never knew that you love could grow everyday until I had Jude. I think it doubles everyday!

Beach...

2009-09-24T08:52:00.009-04:00

We just got back from Panama City Beach, FL and we had a great time. Just wanted to share some pictures. Jude loved playing in the sand and ocean.

Back to work...

2009-09-09T08:06:00.004-04:00

Well today is back to work time. Parents Day out starts back up for there fall/winter session. I will be working Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday each week, instead of two days a week.

Jude is excited to be going back to school today. He wil be back in his regular class with all his friends.

Just pictures...

2009-09-04T09:23:00.004-04:00

Dollywood, August 29, 2009

Randomness...

2009-09-04T08:56:00.004-04:00

I haven't been doing a very good job keeping up with my blog lately. We have been staying so very busy!

Freddy is finally back to working his normal shift at work. We really struggled those 4 months that he was working second/midnights. He was working 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. six days a week. He was extremely tired from working so hard and I was extremely tired from being a full time (singe) parent, keeping the house up and the yard work. I will be working an extra day per week starting this month. So I will have even less time to get house work and everything done.

Church is a very important part of our lives. We go to church to feed on the Word on Wednesday, Sunday morning and evenings and anytime there is womans meetings or Girlfriends unlimited meetings scheduled, I do my best to attend. I will actually be attending a women's conference in October.

Jude is growing! He is 32 months old and growing like a weed. I really can't believe my baby will be three soon. He still goes to Trinity Tots and is really excelling in learning. He is pretty much potty trained. He does have the occasional accident but for the most part he is doing well.

Jude and I are planning to attend the Mother/Son dance this year. I can excited about it. A good friend and her son will going with us. I can't wait. :)

We are going on a much needed vacation in a about 10 days. I am looking forward to spending time with my family and friends. We are going to Panama City, FL. I am looking forward to taking walks on the beach and getting to see Jude's face the first time he sees the ocean.

Weight Loss Week 5

2009-08-24T07:55:00.002-04:00

5th weigh in was today:
157.8 down 1 from last week, 6.2 pounds since starting.

Weigh Loss Week 4...

2009-08-16T14:55:00.001-04:00

4th weigh in was today:
158.8 down 0 from last week, 5.2 pounds since starting.

Verse memorized was:

1 Corinthians 6:20 (NIV)

You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

Weight loss week 3...

2009-08-09T13:08:00.005-04:00

3rd weigh in was today:
158.8 down 3.2 from last week, 5.2 pounds since starting.

Verse memorized was:

Romans 12:2 (New International Version)
2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Weight loss week 2...

2009-08-02T17:34:00.004-04:00

2nd weigh in was today:
162 down two pounds.

Verse memorized was:

1 Corinthians 10:13 (NKJV) No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

Weight loss...

2009-07-26T20:37:00.003-04:00

Well I will be doing a weekly post for the next 6 weeks about my weight loss. I am hopping to loose at least 15lbs but have an ultimate goal of 30 in mind. I have signed up to do the Biggest Loser at church. We have to memorize verses in order to weigh in so we are loosing weigh while feeding ourselves the word of God.

1st weigh in was today:
164

Verse memorized was:

Hebrews 12:1-2 (New King James Version)

1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Potty Training...

2009-06-01T11:29:00.003-04:00

We are still in the process of potty training. He is doing well. We are pretty much in underwear all the time. Right now he still uses a pull up for night time and church nursery but that is it. He is down to a few accidents a day but is finally able to tell us he needs to go to the potty.

God is sooooo Good...

2009-04-24T20:48:00.003-04:00

I just want to say how awesome the mighty God I serve is. After years of struggling with infertility and many many prayers, a dear friend (through the internet) has finally been given a wonderful gift. She has adopted a brand new baby girl and brought her home today. I am sooo happy for them and wish them the absolute best. I am sooooo happy for you K and E. Congrats!

Isn't God wonderful. Thank you Jesus for answering their prayers and giving them their hearts desire!!!

Just pictures...

2009-03-22T20:18:00.004-04:00

More new books...

2009-02-16T20:12:00.003-05:00

I recently purchased some new books for us to read to Jude. He gets in the habit of wanting the same books over and over. I really like these books because they tell about a bear during hibernation and the second talks about once he wakes up.

Anyway they are: Bear Snores On and Bear Wants More by Karma Wilson. They are wonderful books. I highly recommend them.

Mops...

2009-02-10T19:48:00.003-05:00

Mother's of Preschoolers

I went today for the first time at a local church and loved it. It was such a fun time. We got to eat, fellowship, have a devotion and play valentines bingo. I really enjoyed it and plan to join. I look forward to getting to know each and everyone in my group.

Something I found on the MOPS website was:

Top 10 ways to love your child:

10. Give lots of snuggle buggle hugs.
09. Be your child's cheerleader.
08. Create a sense of belonging.
07. Draw some limits.
06. Show the way.
05. Let your child be himself.
04. Get giggly and goofy together.
03. Learn to let go.
02. Take care of yourself.
01. Be a hope bringer.

At the park today...

2009-02-08T21:59:00.001-05:00

Hmmmmm. What do I want to do first???

I can make it. I can make it. One more step.

He loved this slide. He had to climb a long way but he loved it.

That looks like fun, Papa.

Just a swingin'

Not too happy since we are leaving.

New favorite books...

2009-02-05T20:37:00.002-05:00

Well, Freddy and I have been doing so much better reading to Jude each night. He pretty much gets a few stories a day. He hears them at school each day he is there and most nights before bed or after dinner. Tonight I was reading to Jude and I had to read the same two books over and over and over and over and over. I almost have them memorized.

Anyway, these are the books:

Looks Who's Talking on the Farm by Danny Tepper
The Goodnight Train by June Sobel

The farm book is very cute. It has a few different animals in it but Jude calls it the Moo Moo Moo book. His favorite part is:

There's a cow.
Chew, Chew, Chew.
Cows make milk-
That's what they do.
When cows see grass, they: (Flip the Page)
MOO, MOO, MOO.

Then the train book has a bunch of cute little things too:
Huff-a-puff-a! Huff-a-puff-a! Choooooooooo! Chooooooooo!
Rock-a, rock-a, rock-a, rock-a --- Shhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Shhhhhhhhhhhhh!(and his favorite) Clickety-Clack! Clickety-Clack! Clickety-Clack!

I just thought I would share these with you if you have small children. He loves the things that mama can really make funny noises with. Keeps him interested.

Just Pictures...

2009-02-05T12:20:00.002-05:00

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) ...

2009-02-05T11:33:00.002-05:00

"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed

My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine

Children's Storytime...

2009-02-03T12:42:00.002-05:00

Today we went to Children's story time at the local library. We had a great time and are so happy to get to go. We used to go to Lapsit, but since I started working we don't get to go. Children's story time is really geared for Children ages 3-5. But since Jude isn't able to go on Wednesdays for his age group they ok'd him to join this group.

Jude listens to stories really well and normally sits very still while the storyteller is reading. He is always wanting me to read more and more books to him.

This weeks books focused on Bears. The storyteller read:
The Snow Bear by Miriam Moss
Bear Snores On and Bear Wants More by Karma Wilson

We look forward to each week that we get to attend.

It's a GIRL...

2009-01-30T21:43:00.002-05:00

My baby sister is having a little girl. YEAH! We are so excited.

Will he be famous one day...

2009-01-22T13:03:00.004-05:00

Well my sweet boy loves playing the piano. Do you think he will be the next Beethoven???

Jude's Big boy bed...

2009-01-20T12:26:00.006-05:00

Jude just chilling in his new bed. He looks so little in it.

Sports Car Bed...

2009-01-02T14:22:00.002-05:00

Well Jude got a race care bed for his birthday. He wasn't supposed to see it until his party but the door got left open and now he wont even lay in the other room. :) Oh well guess the room has to be finished after his nap. Which he still hasn't taken because he is having tooooo much fun playing on the bed.

Madagascar...

2009-01-01T21:45:00.004-05:00

Today we took Jude to the movies. We went to see Madagascar 2. It was really cute to see and Jude seemed to enjoy it. Of course his favorite part was the popcorn. After wards, we went out to eat with his Mamaw and Aunt Nora. We had a great day with our special little 2 year old. :)

January 1st...

2009-01-01T09:22:00.005-05:00

Today brings back wonderful memories...

2008-12-31T08:38:00.003-05:00

December 31, 2006 I went in to labor with Jude. I can't believe that my baby will turn two tomorrow. He was born on January 1, 2007 at 11:14 a.m., he was 8lb 2oz 21 inches long. I remember how incredible it was to hear his first cry. That cry forever changed my life. It is an unimaginable love that you feel and will feel for your entire life. I never knew what a mother's love was until that day.

We will celebrate Jude's birthday tomorrow by going to the aquarium for the first time with him. We are very excited to see how he reacts to it. We will have his birthday party on the 10th so that it is a little spaces from all the holiday mess.

I just wanted to say to my super sweet boy:

Resolutions for 2009...

2008-12-28T16:23:00.005-05:00

I have just a few New Year's Resolutions this year. I normally don't do them but thought I would give it a whirl.

1. Have my relationship with my awesome God become stronger and closer.

2. Become more active in church. I will be joining the choir very soon.

3. Slow down. What I mean by that is stop always feeling the need to rush and stress about things being done now. :)

4. Have more patience with my husband. I am sometimes quick to jump and get upset at him for little silly things he does.

5. Telling my family how much they mean to me more often. I want them to know I don't take them for granted.

6. Get back to reading to Jude all the time. He loves "stories" as he calls them and we sometimes get busy with everyday life and don't make time for special things like that.

A few that are common:
1. Actually use my YMCA membership.

2. Save more, Spend less.

I hope everyone has a blessed 2009.

Wishing you...

2008-12-24T21:23:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to come on tonight and say:

A great Chirstmas Book...

2008-12-21T23:02:00.004-05:00

It is called "The First Christmas" by Carol Heyer. It is a really great story.

We don't do Santa in our house. My family didn't when I was growing up but Freddy's did. So everyone on Freddy's side is always asking Jude about Santa. I want to remind him each year why we have Christmas. I wanted to start a new tradition with him. So each Christmas morning we will read him this story and remind him of the importance of Christmas!

THe Last page of the book says,

"This is why we Christians celebrate Christmas. We remember that Jesus was born to save us and to give us hope. On Christmas morning, we remember the wise men's gifts by giving and receiving presents of our own. And we go to church to honor Jesus and to thank God for sending us his son to give us the gift of everlasting life."

23 months old...

2008-12-01T19:28:00.003-05:00

I can't believe my baby is 23 months old. We have exactly one month to get him ready for a second birthday. Wasn't I just pregnant yesterday. :)

My sister...

2008-11-23T19:23:00.002-05:00

Is Pregnant! I am going to be an Aunt again!!!

What I am thankful for...

2008-11-23T17:57:00.005-05:00

I thought since it was so close to Thanksgiving that I tell what I am thankful for this year.

* That God loves us so much, he gave us a family to love, and a Son to save our souls.

* Our new Church. We are so happy to have found a Church that we can call home.

* My Beautiful son, Jude. What a blessing he has been to us.

* Freddy, my very loving patient hubby. He is always there and supports me.

* My new job. So far I love it. I get to have time away from Jude while he is learning in the class next to me. How wonderful is that.

* Family. I am so thankful to have family support.

* Our home.

What a mess...

2008-11-18T08:58:00.004-05:00

I totally screwed my blog up last night. It wiped out all my friends with blogs, so I am still trying to gather those. It took out my links and pictures. Hopefully, I will have it all back soon. If I missed your blog on my list please let me know.

Love when things just work out...

2008-11-11T13:55:00.003-05:00

Lately, I have been looking for a part time job. Mostly to help curve cost for Christmas and to put a little money in savings. The only problem with job hunting is most stuff is full time. So after Freddy and I talked for a while, I have decided to put my resume in at a few places even though the hours wouldn't be perfect.

I had an two interviews with a local nursing home for Activities Assistant. I prayed and prayed for God to give me an answer to weather a full time position was the right thing to do. (I haven't been sure about leaving Jude for 40-45 hours per week) God gave my answer. The hours were going to be 10am-7pm. I would hardly get to see Jude. Plus, I would have had to work every other weekend. So my time from church would have dropped in half as well.

I just had to thank him for giving me an answer. God is so Good. I went to pick Jude up from his parents day out program and was telling the director that I would either be pulling Jude out after Christmas or dropping him down to one day a week, since I couldn't find a part time job to work with my schedule with Jude.

She ask if I would consider working for her? I was amazed and shocked. God had answered prayers for me again!! I will be working the same hours that Jude is at his parents day out. I will be working in the nursery and Jude will be next door int he two year old class. The plus is Jude will have FREE tuition!! So God has really blessed me.

I just wanted to share that God has blessed us so much. He always has a plan and if you put your faith in him you can't go wrong.

Potty training...

2008-10-20T16:39:00.003-04:00

Well looks like it is that time. :( My baby is showing signs that he is ready to use the potty. We are going to start potty training on Friday or Saturday. I have pull-ups, potty chairs and undies! HA! I am looking forward to diaper free days but dreading this task. HA!

Everyone keeps telling me he is showing signs of readiness so I guess we will see what happens.

Reading...

2008-10-08T10:52:00.003-04:00

I love to read. I have recently started looking for some books that are written by Christian authors because I am tired off all the books I read having so much cursing and using Gods name in vain. I just read one of the most amazing books. I just want to recommend it.

The Atonement Child
Author Francine Rivers
When tragedy strikes Dynah, a devout Christian with a bright future, the Carey family struggles to cope. In considering the question of abortion, Dynah and her family must come to terms with God's provision and goodness and what it means to live out the truth even when the cost is high.

Baptized...

2008-09-28T15:05:00.004-04:00

Just wanted to share that Freddy and I were baptized today at church. It is our testiment to our faith and love for Jesus Christ.

Tag...

2008-09-27T22:36:00.003-04:00

So, Mandie, mama to Nathan, tagged me in her post about 10 things that make her happy! :) Such a fun post idea!

So, once I have been tagged, I have to post 10 things that make ME happy! Fun, fun! Stay tuned, at the bottom of the post, I will tag 3 people!

10 Things that Make me Happy

1. Jude
My lovely little man. He is amazing and everyday teaches me how to love in a way I never thought possible.

2. Freddy
Amazing. He is so wonderful. He is kind, sweet, shy and loving. He loves me exactly as I am. (Even when I am not perfect)

3. Jesus
I am so blessed to call myself a Christian. I love Jesus and try to live the way he wants and follow him the best I can.

4. My mom
As you can see from my last post she is one of my favorite people in the world.

5. West Virgina
I love this place. I still call it home. It is a wonderful place to visit and I miss my family so much.

6. Reading
I love to read. I love anything from the Bible to mysteries to love stories to educational books.

7. Fall
This is my favorite time of the year.

8. Christmas
It just makes me happy. I love to give. I love the family get togethers, the holiday traditions, and the food. I love to make a big batch of hot apple cider and just enjoy the cold.

9. Rose
She is my best friend. She is always there for me and always so understand. We have been through some pretty hard times together and we have always found ways to support one another. Thank you so much for always being there for me.

10. Photography
I know this one seems silly but I really love having a camera in my hand. I don't take pictures as often as I would like. I just need to find more time to work on it. :)

I am tagging:
Jamie
Joan
Melissa

Happy 50th...

2008-09-22T21:49:00.007-04:00

Happy 50th Birthday to my mother! I love her so much. She is my biggest support system.

Just a few reasons she is truly wonderful:

I love that she raised me in church and to love God.

SHE IS...
. Beautiful.
. Strong.
. Sincere.
. Unique.
. Compassionate.
. Giving.
. Unselfish.
. Forgiving.

I ALWAY HAVE...
. A shoulder to cry on.
. A friend to laugh with.
. Someone to sing with.

WE SHARE...
. Secrets.
. Stories.
. Memories.
. Clumsiness.
. Eye and hair color.

SHE HAS TAUGHT ME:
. To be a parent.
. To be a wife.
. To believe in what is right.
. To forgive even when it is hard.
. To do the right thing.
. To be confident.
. To have faith.

20 Months...

2008-09-16T11:29:00.006-04:00

We have been soooo busy this month. I can't believe my little boy is 20 months. I know I say it all the time but he is such a little miracle and such a blessing.

Like I said it has be very busy this month. Jude started Trinity Tots (a parents day out program.) He is doing fantastic so far. Today is his four day there.

We started a new church. We have been so blessed by it. We will be having Jude dedicated next month and are so excited to give thanks to the Lord for him. Freddy and I are also going to be baptized in a few weeks. God is so wonderful and I think sometimes life gets in the way of the worship he deserves. We are making Him a priority in our lives. It is so exciting. I am sure we will be blessed.

Just a little picture of Jude at 20 months. I need to do better taking pictures and sharing. He is growing so fast.

19 months old...

2008-08-25T12:48:00.004-04:00

I can't believe that 19 months has went by. Gee it is crazy. Jude is such a sweet little man. We have so much fun together. I love the time we spend together. Right now he really loves playing with his cars and soccer ball. He loves kicking it around in the yard. He loves being outside.

Vacation...

2008-06-21T15:34:00.003-04:00

We just got back from vacation with our best friends. We went camping, hiking and relaxing at Fall Creek Falls in Pikeville, TN. We had a blast.

Jude is nearly 18 months old. We have loved watching him grow in to such a sweet boy. He is becoming quite the stinker though. HA! I love him so much. He says several words now but still only talks if he wants to. There is no getting him to if he doesn't want to. His words include: Mama, Papa, Nonni, dog, tree, bird, hat, keys, cheese, cracker, and banana. He has gotten a few more teeth. He has actually cut a few molars and has now cut his eye teeth.

Jude is running around everywhere. Balls are his favorite toys to play with. He also loves watching the Backyardigans, singing and dancing.

Time for a hike...

2008-05-11T19:51:00.005-04:00

Well we picked up our new KeltyKids TC 2.0 today. I was very happy to finally get it. Now it is time for a hike. Jude really seemed to love it so far. I am sure he will love it once we are out on a trail.

My Favorite things about being a mama...

2008-05-11T07:03:00.006-04:00

My top ten list:

I love that first thing in the morning smile when I walk into Jude's bedroom. It is like he is saying, Good morning mama!
Watching Jude play, when he doesn't know I am watching.
Giving Jude love and hugs before bed. I know that I have showed him plenty of love through out the day, but I want to make sure he knows it before going to sleep.
Seeing the wonder in his eyes when he goes outside to play or go to a new place. It is like he takes everything in.
Reading him a story!
Giving Jude a bath. He loves them and enjoys playing in the water.
Watching my husband with Jude. I feel so much joy in my heart when Freddy and Jude are playing or just hanging out together. It is so cute when Freddy lets me sleep in and I walk upstairs and Jude is sitting in his lap and they are watching cartoons together.
Doing Jude's laundry! (I know it is a silly one since I hate doing the laundry.) But I love washing and folding his little clothes. I also love washing his Cloth Diapers and lining them dry. Makes me feel like a better mom for doing something good for the earth and for protecting his little bum.
Seeing the excitement in his eyes when we go bye-bye. He loves taking a ride to see the grandparents.
My most favorite thing about being a mama is knowing that I do my very best ever day to raise a happy, healthy baby boy!

Recycle your ink and toner cartridges...

2008-05-07T15:08:00.004-04:00

Here are several organizations that will recycle your ink and toner cartridges:

www.ecyclegroup.com

www.freerecycling.com

www.recycleforbreastcancer.org

Recycle your cell phone...

2008-05-07T15:01:00.005-04:00

Here are several organizations that recycle cell phones:

www.recyclewirelessphones.com

www.eco-cell.org

www.grcrecycling.com

www.recycleforbreastcancer.org

Tired of junk mail...

2008-05-06T15:20:00.005-04:00

Stop credit card offers at www.optoutprescreen.com

You can also get off telemarketing and mailing list buy contacting the Direct Marketing Association. Register on-line at www.dmaconsumers.org/consumerassistance.html and www.donotcall.gov

Remember to re-register every five years.

My sister...

2008-05-05T12:14:00.005-04:00

My sister is graduating in just a few short weeks. Just thought I would share a picture of her.

10 ways to go green...

2008-04-28T19:31:00.009-04:00

Going green can be easy! Ten things that you can change in your everyday living to help the planet!

No more disposable plates and cups. It is very easy to just wash your dishes. Think of all it sitting in the landfills.
Give up your paper towels and use cloth napkins. You can go to your local fabric store and pick out your favorite pattern and make your own or find them at any store. Try Burlington Coat factory. They have them for fifty cents a piece.
Recycle. Contact your local center and see what they offer. For example: Our recycle center donates money from soda cans to our local schools.
Think about a water filter for your kitchen sink. Skip bottled water. Most plastic water bottles are for one use only. Bottle water is expensive and think of all the waste it causes. Think about a reusable/refillable water bottle like a SIGG or Klean Kantee.
Change your light bulbs to fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) when your others burn out.
Wash your laundry in cold water. This helps save energy. Also, if possible line dry your clothes. If you have to use your dryer consider dryer balls to cut down drying time.
Buy in bulk! This not only saves money. It also saves on packaging cost and means less in the landfills.
Use reusable shopping bags. You can find these just about anywhere. Even our local walmart has them for like $1 each. If you don't want the hassle then try to find other uses for them. They make great liners for you bathroom trash can and that is one less thing to buy.
Wash full loads when using your dishwasher and washing machine. You can save water, energy and money by doing this.
Unplug your electronics, like your cell phone charger and printer. You will save energy and money.

Recycling makes a difference...

2008-04-27T10:47:00.006-04:00

How to start a recycle program:

There are a few key elements to starting any recycling program whether it is for a business, school, an organization or just in your home.

Evaluate how much space you have to sort and store materials and what items you tend to go through.
Washable plastic bins or trash cans are best. Be sure to rinse out the containers on a regular basis.
Educate participants- If items are put in th wrong containers, it means more work for you and could mean materials might not be recycled. Let everyone know what to do.
Label bins- Print up a sheet of special instructions, such as: Remove caps, stomp on containers, break down cardboard boxes, bundle newspapers, etc.

Just pictures...

2008-04-24T22:03:00.007-04:00

Just pictures...

2008-03-10T14:26:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time...

2008-03-10T14:20:00.004-04:00

I know it is has been such a long time since we have posted. I have been so busy with so many things. Jude is still attending LapSit every Wednesday and has been have a great time. He has also been going to the Chiropractor for his GERD and now he is going to be having some test. He has a UGI scheduled for Wednesday, March 12. I will be sure to update everyone once we get results.

Jude is now walking. He actually started walking in January. He is the most amazing little boy. (I know everyone feels this way about thier children.)

Weather is starting to warm up and I am so excited to spend some time outside. Jude loves playing outside. I can't wait for warm enough weather to actually go to the park and spend some time.

LapSit has started again...

2008-01-24T13:18:00.003-05:00

LapSit is now on Wednesdays! That is so much better for Jude and I! We can enjoy our library time without taking time away from Freddy!

LapSit is so much fun! We love singing the silly songs and hearing the great stories! This week we heard: This Little Baby's Playtime, by Lynn Breeze, My Two Hands My Two Feet, by Rick Walton, and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See?, by Eric Carle.

We had a new story teller and she is great! We sang lots of songs. A few of them were The itsy bisty spider and Old McDonald had a farm.

We can wait until next week!

1st Movie...

2008-01-12T21:53:00.002-05:00

Today we took Jude to his first movie at the movie Theater. He did so well. We watched Alvin and the Chipmunks. He loved it. He smiled and danced when they sang. It was a very cute movie. We will definitely be taking him back.

Jude, my little super model...

2008-01-07T16:46:00.001-05:00

Today I was pulling up some information on Fuzzi Bunz for a friend of mine and I found out that my son was a Super Model! HA! Not really but I sent Fuzzi Bunz a picture of Jude in his a FB diaper and he was on the ad today! I don't know how long he will be on there but I thought I would share the picture with everyone!

Cowboy Jude...

2008-01-06T10:46:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to share a picture of Cowboy Jude! The hat, bandanna, and boots were birthday gifts from Grandmother.

One year check-up...

2008-01-05T11:20:00.001-05:00

Jude had his one year check-up yesterday and of course is just healthily as a horse. He weighed 19lbs 5.5oz (7 percentile) and was 28.75 inches (18 percentile). He is still considered small for his age but he is doing great! His doctor was happy that he has gained weighted and is now back on the growth chart.

Thanks...

2008-01-02T23:14:00.002-05:00

Thank you to all that wished Jude a happy birthday! Attached is a copy of his thank you card!

Happy 1st Birthday...

2008-01-01T18:48:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to add a few pictures of our little man at his first party!

I'm one...

2007-12-28T22:10:00.002-05:00

In just a few short days, my son will be one year old! I just can not believe how fast time has gone by. We have had such a wonderful year. I can not begin to tell you how amazing it is to be a mother. God is really great and knows exactly what he is doing.

A little about us: Freddy and I started trying to have a baby back in January 2004. We just knew it would happen very fast and had plans of becoming parents that year. Life gave us a big slap in the face. Patience!!! We tried for 28 months before getting pregnant with Jude. He is a true miracle.

Doctors told us that conceiving on our own would be near impossible. So we started with some simple test and then some fertility treatments. After several failed IUI's, several test and one surgery we left it up to God! We had finally decided to stop trying and take a break for a while.

Surprise! Pregnant! We were over joyed. It was very short lived. I miscarried very early and we were devastated. I just didn't understand how this could happen. Why us after all we had been through.

God had other plans for us. A few months later, I found out I was pregnant again! Another gift and a pleasant surprise! Jude was due on Christmas day 2006 but decided to wait until January 1st 2007 to make his arrival!

In the past year I have done things that I never thought was possible. I quit work! I breastfeed for 11 months and I cloth diaper! I am amazed with every day that passes on the love I feel for this little boy. He is my life! I love him with everything in me! I can not believe that it has been a year since he was laid in my arms and I was instantly and forever changed!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BEAUTIFUL MIRACLE JUDE!!!

Been very busy...

2007-12-06T09:47:00.001-05:00

We have been very busy lately. We missed two LapSit programs, one due to a trip to visit family in West Virginia and the other because of family pictures.

Our trip to WV went well. We were able to visit with most of our family. Jude did pretty well on the trip. He was cutting teeth and had a bit of a cold but he still acted like himself. Everyone said he was such a good baby.

Thanksgiving was wonderful. We had dinner at my mother in laws on Wednesday and then dinner at my families on Thursday. Jude loved the sweet potatoes and mac and cheese. He wouldn't hardly eat anything else.

We went to LapSit last weekend and read several books about snowmen and winter. Jude sat and listened so well. We checked out several books. Have you seen my cat, by Eric Carle, Sheila Rae's Peppermint Stick, by Kevin Henkes and The Snow Day, by Exra Jack Keats. Jude loves going to the library for story-time and also enjoy me reading to him each day.

Christmas is coming up and his is amazed at the Christmas tree. He also loves taking the ornaments off the tree. We try not to stay in the living room a whole lot that way he doesn't get in to trouble with it. HA! Attached is a copy of our Christmas card.

LapSit, week three...

2007-11-03T22:14:00.001-04:00

Today we were running a little late. Todays focus was on books by Eric Carle. We missed a few of the stories but Jude still had a wonderful time. After we got there the Storyteller read: The Very Busy Spider and The Very Lonely Firefly.

A list of the books we checked out are mostly by Eric Carle: Let's Paint a Rainbow, The Mixed-Up Chameleon, Does a Kangaroo Have a Mother Too, The Very Busy Spider, The Very Clumsy Click Beetle, and Little Cloud. We also checked out Moonbear's Friend by Frank Asch.

Jude loves for me to read to him each day. I can usually read about three or four stories before he gets bored. He loves books that have bright colors and neat pictures.

Here is a small list of books that our librarian suggested for children 0-3:

Tomie dePaola Tomie's Little Mother Goose
Mern Fox Time for Bed
Bill Martin Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Bill Martin Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See?
Reny Charlie Sleepytime Rhyme
Tana Hoban White on Black
Karen Katz Counting Kisses
Helen Oxenbury Clap Hands
Margaret Wise Brown My World of Color
Margaret Wise Brown The Runaway Bunny
Margaret Wise Brown Goodnight Moon
Denise Fleming Barnyard Banter
Peggy Rathman Good Night, Gorilla
P.D. Eastman Go, Dog, Go!
Sandra Boynton Barnyard Dance & others
Eileen Christelow Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed
Rosemary Wells Max's First Word & other
Deborah Guarino Is Your Mama a Llama?
Sam McBratney Guess How Much I Love You
Eric Carle The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Eric Carle The Very Busy Spider

Haircut...

2007-11-02T17:14:00.001-04:00

Jude had a haircut today. This time he didn't do as well as the first. He was sleepy since he had not had much of a nap. He did fine for about half of the cut and then started getting upset. I will post pictures later.

First Popsicle...

2007-10-30T19:54:00.001-04:00

Jude has his first Popsicle on Sunday! You tell me what you think he thought of it! HA!

LapSit, week two...

2007-10-27T11:49:00.001-04:00

Today was our second LapSit at our local library. Jude had a great time. Today we read about bunnies. The following books were read today; Guess How Much I Love You, The Runaway Bunny, and Pat the Bunny. Jude listened so well as the Storyteller read each story. He also loved the the songs that we sung and enjoyed watching one of the other baby that was 10 days younger than him in the group.

Bunny Rabbit Singing games:

A little brown rabbit popped out of the ground,
(Right index finger pops up)

Wriggled his whiskers and looked around,
(Right index finger wriggles around)

Another wee Rabbit who lived in the grass
(Left index finger pops up)

Popped his head out and watched him pass,
(Right hand hops over the left, wrist crossed)

Then both wee rabbits went hoppity hop,
hoppity, hoppity, hoppity, hop.
(Both index fingers hop forward)

Till they came to a wall and had to stop.
(Both index fingers stop suddenly)

Then both wee rabbits turned themselves round,
(Hands uncross)

And scuttled off home to their holes in the ground.
(Hands hop back and finish in the pockets)

Here is a bunny with ears so funny,
Here is a hole in the ground,
When a noise he hears,
He pricks up his ears,
And jumps in his hold in the ground.

Also, Jude and I read Hopper and So Many Bunnies. Such fun!!!

Teeth...

2007-10-22T17:38:00.001-04:00

Jude's top teeth are finally starting to cut through. So far one. I believe that he will have the other 3 in the next few days.

Lapsit, week one...

2007-10-20T15:42:00.001-04:00

Today was our first day for LapSit at our local library. Jude had a great time.

The purpose of LapSit is to introduce very young children to the library. Little ones learn to interact in a group, participate in games and songs, and develop a love of reading.

Today we read about bears. The following books were read today; Leaves, Brown Bear Brown Bear What do you see?, and Were going on a Bear Hunt. Jude listened so well as the Storyteller read each story. He also loved the the songs that we sung and enjoyed watching one of the other little girls in the group.

Some of the songs were;

OPEN, SHUT THEM

Open them, Shut them

And give a little clap, clap, clap

Open them, Shut them

And lay them in your lap, lap, lap

Creep them, Creep them

Right up to your chin

Open up your little mouth

But don't let them in!

Head, Shoulder, Knees and Toes

Head and shoulders

Knees and Toes

Head and Shoulders

Knees and Toes

Knees and toes

Eyes and Ears and mouth and Nose

Head and Shoulders

Knees and Toes

Also, Jude and I read The Snowday, Row Row Row Your Boat, and Chicka Chicka ABC. Such fun!!!

Our day...

2007-10-19T17:13:00.001-04:00

I got rear-ended!!!Oh my gravy, It scared me to death. Jude, my mom and I were going to walmart and was I was driving and had to stop at a yield, because the cars with the right a way were coming. The lady behind me thought I went on and started moving forward. She bumped us pretty hard but the car had no damage. We also went to one of our local body shop to check underneath the car. So we got very lucky.

Jude started crying and I thought he was hurt and started crying even before I saw that he was ok. I was very shaken up but we are fine. Geeeee. I just got this car! I am so happy that there was no damage.

Other than that we have to replace our Car seat. (Per the police officer that helped us) I bought a Britax last month so luckily we have another one to put Jude in so I am just going to buy the same one that I have and put it up for our next baby and start using the Britax.

My little inch worm...

2007-10-11T11:47:00.002-04:00

Before long, I really believe my little man will be crawling. He has be putting his butt in the air and pushing himself forward like a little worm. He has rolled, scooted and pushed himself around the entire living room today! Sooooo cute!

Newest Stash...

2007-10-09T20:40:00.001-04:00

New Stash pictures! Missing is the 2 BG's and 2 blueberries on there way!

Med FB's
4 Turquoise
4 Navy
3 Primary Blue
1 Red (I need another)
2 Yellow
2 Orange
1 Train
1 Zoo
1 Primary Green

2 Blueberries
1 HH Cow print
5 WAHM's - Loralee owner of Prairie-Tale diapers

9 months...

2007-10-09T13:12:00.001-04:00

Jude had his 9 month check-up on September 28th. He weighed 14 lbs and 8 oz (<1 percentile) and was 26 3/4 inches long (9 percentile). He is healthy as a horse just super tiny. The doctor recommended starting Jude on some finger foods. We started giving him some Cheerios and Mum-Mum crackers. He is now eating green beans, macaronis, peas and rice. He gets a funny face when we give him food that isn't pureed but he likes it. He is also eating Yo-Baby Yogurt and pudding. (He likes vanilla the best.)

Jude is now pulling himself up with what ever he can get a hold of. It is so cute because he get so excited. He is so proud of himself.

Jude still isn't crawling. He moves into the crawling position and then gets a bit frustrated because he can't move. He tries to pull himself around with a toy or something in the floor. I guess he thinks if he pulls hard enough he will move like he does when he pulls himself up. :)

Cutting teeth...

2007-09-12T21:25:00.002-04:00

Jude is trying to cut some of his top teeth. He has been very fussy today. Poor thing. Tylenol and Teething tablets have been our best friends lately.

Love Land by Martina McBride...

2007-09-11T10:34:00.001-04:00

Wasn't wearing a wedding dress in a Vegas wedding chapel
They were herding us in and out of there like we were cattle
Not exactly the fairy tale that I had planned
But mama said aren't you supposed to get married girl
Before you bring a baby in this world
And what could I say but yes ma'am

And I called her from that chapel in Love Land
I said I really love this man
Love Land

Seemed like a lifetime driving from Vegas to Oklahoma
If you're allowed a number of mistakes in life maybe I've filled my quota
They called it a reception saying we did the right thing
And they smiled their broken smiles
Said who needs to walk down the aisle
And I showed off my wedding ring

And we walked away hand in hand to Love Land
Oh how I love this man Love Land

Amazing all the progress we've made since the days of Thomas Edison
Still only God gives life in spite of modern medicine
Doctor's voices whispered we did all that we could do
But your baby wasn't strong enough
To make it the whole nine months
And as my world broke in two
He said I'll carry you through to Love Land
For the longest time I blamed myself

Thought I was paying for my mistakes
But we tried again
Now we're watchin' him blow three candles out
He's daddy's little man
And only God could have planned
The steps I've taken
That led me to where I am
Love Land
Anywhere you hold my hand
Is Love Land

Cloth Diapers...

2007-09-10T19:21:00.001-04:00

We started cloth diapering Jude at 4 months. Freddy and I were amazed at how easy it was. Diapers are not like the old fashion days with all the pins and plastic covers. Our favorite brand is Fuzzi Bunz. Some other brands that have been used are Drybee AIOs, Happy Heiny's One size, Swaddlebees, BumWear and Bum Genius.

Jude sporting his Fuzzi Bunz and Drybee:

Photo of my diaper stash!

My Birthstory...

2007-09-10T18:06:00.001-04:00

December 31st, we had dinner at my mother’s house for New Years! I started having some mild cramping at her house around 5:00 p.m. After about thirty minutes or so it stopped so I thought it must have been too much turkey and dressing. I went home around 7:00 and Freddy and I laid down for some rest and thought we would watch some TV. About 9:00, I started feeling the same as I did at moms. Again, I thought I had too much to eat. At 10:00 I told Freddy that I was cramping and my lower back was hurting pretty bad. He was we should leave right at that moment. I called mom and told her what I was feeling and she thought I should time the pains for thirty minutes to an hour and then of course call her back! Ha! Twenty minutes later I called her to say, “I am going to shower so I can go to the hospital!” We left at 11:00 p.m. and arrived at the hospital at 11:30 a drive that is usually 45 minutes to an hour! I was having contractions every 3 minutes and they hurt like something unexplainable. By the time I was admitted I was having contractions every 2 minutes and already 4 centimeters.

The Doctor was called. I got my epi and then we waited! I went to 6 centimeters fairly quickly and then everything slowed down. The doctor broke my water and there was meconium! I was so upset, thinking about everything that could go wrong. I had a catheter inserted into my uterus to try to wash some of it out. He said it was thicker than normal and was concerned about it. Well at 7:00 a.m. I had still not moved past 6 centimeters and I was given pitocin to try to boost them and still nothing happened. I started my second bag of pitocin and went to 7 ½ centimeters and then completely stopped. We had already talked about c-section since I had trouble getting past 6 centimeters. The doctor came in around 10:00 a.m. and said we were for sure doing the c-section. I was so so so scared. The doctor said that he was in the right position but he was not moving down any further. My bones were too small for him. He was just stuck!

He was born at 11:14 a.m. weighed in at 8 lbs 2 oz 21 inches long! He is perfect in every way!

The surgery went well…. I did very well at the hospital so I only had to stay until January 3rd! We left around 2:00 p.m. I was so happy to be home with my new son!

A little about me...

2007-09-09T22:57:00.001-04:00

Ok a little history lesson! In 2004, Freddy and I decided we were ready to start a family. We thought oh this will be so easy. We will just start trying and would have our baby in no time. Little did we know that our journey would take so long! We tried for a year with no luck so my doctor was ready to send us to a fertility doctor for some testing. He ran some test and decided that it would be best if we go ahead and try some IUI’s. We tried two with no luck.

Freddy was sent in for testing. We found out that he had a problem called Varicocele vains. This caused his sperm count to be extremely low. His urologist thought it would be best if he had surgery to repair it. He told us that most of the time he saw improvement in about 4 months. Our fertility doctor, on the other hand, was not so optimistic. He said we would most likely never conceive on our own.

After Freddy had surgery we waited four months to try another IUI, it also failed. Again, our doctor told us we would never conceive on our own. We need to try other options. We had decided to put trying on hold and wait till after the New Year and start again.

With not much hope of having a baby on our own, we ended up with a Christmas miracle. We conceived a baby!! No fertility medicine and no treatments. Our happiness was short lived. It ended in miscarriage at five weeks!

Freddy and I were devastated. We thought we would give my body time to heal and try again. With that we started trying again in April of 2006. On our first month of trying we conceived our little blessing! We found out we were expecting on Easter. We were due on Christmas Day and he arrived on New Year’s Day!

We feel so blessed to have such a beautiful baby boy! It was a long journey but definitely worth the wait. He is everything we could have ever hoped for!