our little man

Pirate, Pumpkin, and Fun

2010-10-31T22:02:00.000-07:00

Andrew helped Daddy carve a pumpkin. He wasn't so sure about the yucky stuff.

A little fun playing with night time shots.

The cutest, most viscous pirate ever!

Growing big

2010-10-24T17:46:00.000-07:00

"I'm a big boy!" and "I'm a big brother!" are two of Andrew's favorite phrases. He likes to prove it as much as he can by doing everything "all by myself". Though hard to keep up with, he brings me joy as I watch him grow and develop. As we prepare for a new baby boy, I am excited about my big boy and the journey into boyhood our family has begun.

A few highlights:

He's very smart and has a better memory than his mother. :)

He's very outgoing and meets new friends everywhere he goes. He will talk to people at the grocery store, at the park, or just see a random person walking down the street and say, "That's my new friend". (At some point I'll have to teach him that all strangers are not friends). Sad, but true.

He's laid back and apparently has a high tolerance to pain. When he sprained his ankle and couldn't walk without a brace, he didn't cry and kept trying to get up and walk only to fall back down. Heart-wrenching for Momma to watch, but he's a real trooper.

He loves cookies and knows exactly where all the snacks at our favorite destinations are kept. He will not hesitate to make himself at home and inspect pantries for a bite to eat.

He can pick out his own clothes. He loves his dinosaur shirts and his fish shirts and boat shoes.

He kisses baby brother everyday and talks to him. At first he thought baby brother was in my belly button, but now realizes the baby has taken over mommy's whole belly.

pumpkin patch

2010-10-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Big Boy!

Handsome boy who refused to look at me!

Ready for Work

Along for the ride.

A few recent pics

2010-10-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

Watching

New Orleans aquarium

Fun at the Park


Pure Delight on the Dock with Pop Pop

Partner in crime

2010-08-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Pretty soon Andrew will have a partner in crime. We are having a baby boy! Though shocked we aren't having a girl, I can't wait for his arrival! Here are a few pics:

Brave Boy

2010-07-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

It's been over 2 months since I've posted here. I guess there's a limit to how much one person can actually keep up with online!

Andrew is such a little boy now. He loves being with other kids and wants to do whatever the big kids are doing. He is very brave, sometimes a little to brave for my comfort. He has no fear of water and no fear of heights. This makes me proud and yet very cautious. He loves swimming and loves being in the deep water with the big boys. He also loves to jump into the deep water off of the side. With his life jacket on, he'll jump right in, go under water, and then bob right up with a squeal of delight. When the other boys were doing tricks, he tried to do tricks and jump too. Crazy kid!

He also loves to talk. At the end of the day, I love to hear him tell us everything that he has done during the day. He'll go through his entire day and say what he has done and who he was with. SO cute. I love to hear him say people's name for the first time. I'm always impressed by how much he can remember. I think he has a better memory than me. :) Then again, that is not a hard accomplishment.

Though it takes so much energy, I'm so thankful that God blessed me with such a great little boy!

Fun in the Sun

2010-05-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

Sunday we went to the beach with a few families from church. Despite the fact that I now have a sunburn, it was a blast. Here are a few pics!

THE BOYS

What a Life!

Boys will be boys!

And here are the individual shots used to make the collage above:

Brevard Zoo

2010-04-28T18:28:00.000-07:00

Today Adam took the day off and we went to the Brevard Zoo. It was a lot of fun!

I had a lot of fun playing with my camera. All of these shots are actually NOT on automatic. I'm learning!
This is a Roseate Spoonbill pruning.

Andrew was so HAPPY to be with his daddy (and me) at the zoo.

Andrew and Daddy looking for the otters.

Pretty, albeit crazy, birds. If you hold a cup of nectar they flock to you and perch on every square inch of your arm.

Hello, Pretty bird! I loved that you could get so close to them! I have some shots of him very close up!

Andrew is dressed up as a sea turtle. The best part of the Brevard Zoo is the kids area with tons of activities. Here he is on his way to search for turtle eggs.

Saving the best for last, Andrew loved wading and splashing in the water. By the end of all this he was worn out and slept from 2-5:30!!! We need to do this more often.

Andrew's First minor league baseball game

2010-04-25T18:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday we went to the Mets Minor League game. We had a lot of fun. Adam strongly dislikes the Mets, so cheered rather loudly for the opposing team. Andrew had a blast. At the end we saw a great firework show. Andrew loved it and kept saying, "BOOM BOOM!!!"

A new hiding place

2010-04-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

While Adam was working in the kitchen, he called me in and said that Andrew had reached a new level. I doubted it was anything new, but after Adam insisted for me to come, I did.

Andrew had thrown all of the plastic dishes out of their cabinet, which he does quite often. However this time it was with the intent to climb in the cabinet and close the door.

What a funny little guy!

First Fish

2010-04-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

For Andrew's birthday Adam got him a real fishing pole. Adam has been talking about getting him a fishing pole since before he was born, so it was no surprise when he came home with a REAL fishing pole. Andrew has asked to go fishing a lot. Finally we were able to take him to a small pond on Saturday. I know that this is just the beginning of these guys finding places to hang out and go fishing. I am thankful for a husband who loves the outdoors and wants to spend time teaching his children life lessons through the time he can spend with them doing things like fishing. Here is the first outing.

Here are my boys heading to the small pond in hopes that Andrew can catch his first fish!

Fish on!

Adam is one proud Pappa and Andrew seems to like fishing!

SUCCESS!

Big Man on the Playground

2010-04-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

This week Andrew has been super sweet. It's a good thing, because I have been super tired and have hit a wall when it comes to all of my husband's travel. Usually we find our way to a park at some point in our day. Here are a few pictures. He's such a big guy now.

I'm OUTTA' HERE!

Fridge

2010-04-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

Andrew gets into everything. When he wants a snack he takes it upon himself to check in the fridge. I've been meaning to get a lock, but here's how I found him today.

Andrew's Birtday Party!

2010-04-03T13:57:00.001-07:00

Another photo slideshow by Smilebox

Two years old.

2010-04-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

My little light

You shine so bright in the darkest night

the joy you give radiates from above

as He has given the greatest of gifts

and blessed me with your pure love.

An innocent smile

springs forth from cheek to cheek

while curious eyes seek to discover

all that flies above and crawls down below

you will leave no hidden rock uncovered.

My growing boy

with whom I can barely keep pace

I love to remember your first two years

of firsts steps, foods, falls, words, and smiles

and welcome your boyhood with fond tears

Two years old

my baby has become a young boy

I love you, my son, don't ever forget it

there's more to explore and fun to be had

The journey continues and I won't miss a minute

Daytona

2010-03-28T11:34:00.001-07:00

Having a little fun at the beach in Daytona.

The beach seems nicer than ours because there is more room to run and play in the water. The waves break farther out and the water is very shallow instead of dropping off quickly like the beaches where we live. Andrew had a ball running in the freezing water.

On another note, 6 days until he turns 2!

Time flies...

2010-03-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

My baby boy is growing up...

Every time I stop to think about the fact that Andrew is turning 2 in two weeks, it blows me away. Time has flown by!!! No doubt, If you have children you understand. Most likely your next sentence would be something along the lines of them being teenagers soon and then out of the house before you know it. How depressing. Can someone please slow down the time. I'm not ready for him to start driving or leave for college yet.

He has been practicing a few complete sentences. A lot of the time he tries to repeat a sentence I say. The last couple of days no matter what we are doing he has said, "Momma is sleeping too." I could be driving, or playing, or cooking, and it comes out of no where. It's so funny!

Our bedtime routine is the sweetest. After getting pj's on and brushing teeth, we pray with Daddy and then him and I sing songs and chat a bit before bed. Then I put him in the crib with a kiss and an "I love you, Buddy." For the past month or so he always responds with, "I love you, Mommy," as I walk out the door. Tonight he added, "See you in the morning." How sweet it is!

One of our favorite activities is going to the beach. Here are a few pics.

Almost Two

2010-03-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

So yes, it's been forever since I really posted on this blog...SORRY. :)

Andrew has been growing and learning so much. I can't believe he'll be two in just a few weeks. Time really does fly! In the past couple of months he has started to LOVE being with other kids. Today I asked him if he wanted to go to the park and very assertively he said, "NO, Ian's house." In other words, "Forget the park, bring me to a playmate!" I love watching him play and having so much fun. I also like that it gives me a break and allows me to have time with my friends.

I hope to post more soon. I have a few great pics...

Buddies

2010-03-11T16:12:00.001-08:00

Ian and Andrew watching the train go by.

Braden reading a story to Andrew.

Play Doh is so much fun!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-01T17:25:00.000-08:00

Andrew opens one of his many gifts. He made out like a bandit!

Nana loves the rug. Andrew loves it too!

Adam is dying to know what is in this big box.

(a bazooka for traveling with fishing poles)

Geaux Saints!

Gotta love him!

Christmas day at Gi Gi's

Despite being sick with colds for Christmas, we were very blessed. We were able to spend a lot of time with family. Andrew was spoiled by grandparents, great-grandmother, aunts, cousins and uncles. I'm proud of my little budding artist who constantly wants to draw on the eisle we got him.

Thanksgiving Day... Pics to come.

2009-11-26T17:46:00.000-08:00

This morning when Andrew woke, I was not quite ready to get out of bed. So, as is my custom when we are out of town, I put him in the bed with me at 6:30. Ultimately I knew that he would not go back to sleep, but I was still hopeful. Oh well, I was smothered with love and kisses as he would lay down and then come up to kiss me and then lay down and then repeat over and over until I got up to get started with the day. Gotta love it!

We are in N.C. visiting Adam's parents and brother's family. Andrew has been doted over and loved on by all. I'm pretty beat, because he doesn't sleep well out of town...no nap today! However, its been a good time.

I'll post some pics when I can steal some from Debbie, I mean, Grammie.

Mini vacation

2009-11-06T18:06:00.001-08:00

We have had a mini vacation before the Peter Anderson fest starts tomorrow. Here are some highlights:

Andrew and Tres at City Park in New Orleans. We were able to meet with Tres and his mom, April. We ate amazing shrimp poboys and had a blast at the park under the majestic oaks.

This is one of my New Orleans roommates, Steph. We stayed the night with them and enjoyed catching up. It was pretty neat, old friends trickled in one by one as their schedule allowed and was able to visit with several of them. I love New Orleans and the people I had the honor of serving with in that broken, but uniquely gifted place. God continues His work there. I'm glad to have a small glimpse.

We did geocaching (Adam's renewed hobby at the audobon bird refuge. It was nice to be outside with just us. The weather was perfect and the view of the bayou was relaxing.

More Fall Pics

2009-10-31T18:02:00.000-07:00

Handsome fella

2009-10-20T13:17:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-16T05:59:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from the pumpkin patch. We had a great time, but it was so hot!!! I'll try to go back sometime early in the day to get some more shots.

Andrew an Blackjack

2009-09-17T17:41:00.001-07:00

The other day Andrew warmed up to blackjack a little more. He likes him a lot, but prefers to be on the other side of the glass door. While we were playing I gave Andrew a little more room to roam arround our back yard as I watched from the swing. Blackjack followed him arround as if he knew that soon this little guy would be his best buddy. At one point Andrew leaned toward him smacking his lips as if kissing him and was caught by surprise when Blackjack proceeding to lick his face I. response. So cute!

An all-time favorite

2009-09-02T04:52:00.001-07:00

This poem has always given me strength, comfort, and courage to follow Him no matter what the cost.

Hast Thou No Scar?

Hast thou no scar?
No hidden scar on foot, or side or hand?
I hear thee sung as mighty in the land,
I hear them hail thy bright ascendent star
Hast thou no scar?

Hast thou no wound?
Yet I was wounded by the archers, spent,
Leaned me against a tree to die; and rent
By ravening beasts that encompassed me, I swooned;
Hast thou no wound?

No wound? No scar?
Yet, as the master shall the servant be
And pierced are the feet that follow Me;
But thine are whole: can he have followed far
Who has nor wound nor scar?

Amy Carmichael,
Gold Cord: The Story of a Fellowship

Fun family day.

2009-08-27T11:34:00.001-07:00

Today we have had a great time hanging out with Adam. We went to the loxahatchee river center and the loggerhead marine center. We love marine life and had lots of fun looking at the fish and turtles.

Bonding with daddy

2009-08-17T15:38:00.001-07:00

Andrew loves his daddy! Here they are swinging

Big shoes to fill

2009-08-11T11:54:00.001-07:00

Andrew loves shoes. Here he is wearing Adam's flip flops.

16 Months, A Full Fledge Toddler and No Looking Back!

2009-08-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how some days, Andrew grows so much that I notice a change over night. This week he turned 16 months. According to the baby sites, he is now a full fledge toddler (whatever that means). He talks non stop and says many words. Anything that he doesn't know, he points and says "DA-no," kind-of like he's saying, "Don't know." As we were riding the other day, he would not stop pointing and asking for the word with the corresponding object in sight. Oh no, hear we go... I'll never get in another word! Often I'll say something to him that ends in "this." For instance, "Do you want to play with this?" "Do you want to eat this?" He walks arround saying, "This! This!"

He also follows more specific requests now. I was surprised the other day when I asked him to go get the book about the big red dog, Clifford, and he brought it to me. Also, he'll bring me random objects that he's taken out of place. I decided to see what he would do if I asked him to put them away. He does a pretty good job of it! I tested a bit further and asked him to put my shoes away. He brought them right to my closet! Okay, I know this will not last forever, but hey I'll enjoy it while I can.

Also, he likes to start the dishwasher, toaster, and about any other thing with buttons and knobs he can get his hands on, including flushing the toilet.

We continue to have a lot of fun watching him grow and learn new things. It's amazing the way God grows this little guy right before our eyes.

Bounce

2009-07-29T17:21:00.001-07:00

With Andrew bouncing off the walls, I thought it would be a good idea to get out of the house this morning. We went to a local indoor bounce place (very cool). To my surprise, Andrew looked at the whole bounce arena with suspicion. He stuck by my side even though we were the only ones in the toddler area. He warmed up a bit and found the most enjoyment in the mini ball pit.

Here is his apprehensive face

In this picture he looks a lot like I did as a baby.

New pets

2009-07-28T06:18:00.001-07:00

Ever since he came out of my womb, Andrew has been asking for some fish. Okay, not really. However, "fish" was one of his first words and his room is all fish stuff. We pulled an old tank Adam had in the garage and got a few goldfish for Andrew's room. He loves it! Also, the gentle hum of the air pump makes a nice white noise... Great for naps and bedtime!

The dog days of summer

2009-07-27T07:11:00.001-07:00

Here is Andrew with Mojo, our aunt's dog. We enjoyed a refreshing day by the pool with family on Sunday afternoon.

Water fun

2009-07-21T13:52:00.001-07:00

Yesturday Andrew and I had a ton of fun with the mom's group from church. The park we went to is my new favorite. Here is Andrew playing in the frog fountain. Moments later he fell forward into the stone frog, giving himself another shiner. Poor guy!

Here is a picture of him today with his colorful eye.

This looks like a bad case of eighties eye shadow!

Beach

2009-07-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

Blackjack is in doggy heaven every time we take him to the beach. With so much energy, he is hard to wear out. He swims and fetches the ball out of the ocean. He's a great beach dog and very obedient (though hyper).
Andrew loves playing in the sand and picking up shells. On this trip, he actually enjoyed the water a little too.
He looks so big here!
Pointing to the Creator of this beautiful day!

Little Tasmanian Devil

2009-07-14T18:58:00.000-07:00

Andrew has been wearing me out lately. He is all over the place and seeks to get into everything. Today he climbed up on the dining room table and was crawling around on it in circles. He also threw the remote in the toilet. Naps are also hard to come by, whew... I'm worn out! How can I get ahead of this little fireball!

Grocery Savings

2009-07-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

I am loving learning the game of coupons and saving money. I just got back from Publix where I saved over %50 using coupons paired with the BOGO sales. I spent 25.48 and saved 30.81. This total includes produce, toilet paper and meat. Here is a breakdown of how it worked:
Cottonelle 24 pack toilet paper on sale for 6.49-.75 coupon = 5.74
2 packs of fruit roll ups of adam's lunch. BOGO 2.75-.50 coupon = 2.25 for 2
2 Ocean Spray 100% juice BOGO 3.99- 1.00 coupon for each juice = 1.99 for 2
Luzianne Tea 24 pack 2.29-1.00 coupon = 1.29
2 Mueller Spaghetti BOGO 1.39- 1.00 coupon for each = -.61 for 2
Bridgeford stick of pepperoni 4.89 (not on sale, but adam's lunch)
2 blocks of Publix cheese (mozarella) 2 for $4
3 packs of blueberries on sale 3 for $5 (1.66 each)- $2.00 competitor coupon = $3 for 3
1 pack of strawberries 2.50

Total 25.05 + .43 tax = 25.48
Savings (including weekly sale and coupons) 30.81

I forgot a few things that I had coupons for which would make them free, so when I return a movie I'll pick them up and hopefully get more pasta and Ocean Spray juice.

Thanks for humoring me!

Hiding Peas

2009-07-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

Andrew can be so funny. As I mentioned previously, he has a new fascination with putting his peas down his shirt. He hasn't tried it with other foods. The funny thing is that he likes peas. I guess he hasn't gotten the memo that you are supposed to hide the veggies that you don't like. Maybe he didn't know that kids are not supposed to like peas. Here he is saving his peas for later (as if I don't give him plenty of snacks).

Tough guy

2009-07-07T20:14:00.001-07:00

Today Andrew got his first shiner. Well actually it's a bad scrape on his upper cheek, but it looks like a black eye. I felt a mixture of sadness and pride for my little guy. He has not quite learned to run, but he tries. He was so excited as he was bringing me something at the library that his body got ahead of his feet and he tumbled head first into a plastic bin. The bin put a nice scrape in his face. Here he is moments after the fall. I'm thankful and reminded of how great a creator God is that he protects the tender parts of our body. The eye is in a socket for a good reason!

Test

2009-07-07T20:08:00.001-07:00

Testing another blog client for the iPhone. I've been frustrated by all that I've tried, because I'll write a long post and for one reason or another the post never sends to my blog. Sooo... We shall see.

Dinner Time Nap

2009-07-02T14:01:00.000-07:00

I have to preface this with...
Don't worry, he didn't hit his head on the table! The boy refused to nap all day. This is him at dinner at 4:30.

Little Munchkin

2009-07-02T10:29:00.001-07:00

I often have to chuckle to myself as my little 2 footer walks around the house speaking his own babble language that sounds like a chinese dialect. It's especially funny if I catch him out of the corner of my eye or he sneaks up from behind. There's a little person in my house, in my life, following me around everywhere making funny noises and saying sentences fully (in his own language of course). Today he found a new way to save some of his lunch for a little snack. He is stuffing peas down his shirt as we speak! It's joyous and humorous to watch this little guy grow and develop.

a lesson in zoology

2009-06-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

okay... sorry... it's been so long

2009-06-23T10:37:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know. If any of you actually follow this you are asking where I've been. When I get so behind on this blog, it's overwhelming to jump back in. There's so much I could tell you about.

Firstly, I LOVE being at home with Andrew. He is a delight as he grows and talks and walks and learns all kinds of new stuff. He is so focused and intrigued by new stuff. I think he will be a lot like his dad.

He talks... a lot. he picks up anything flat and holds it to his ear and talks to daddy on the phone as he walks around the house. He tests his strength by crushing grapes and cereal between his index finger and thumb. He is great at pitching and dumping food (my vacuum lives by his chair). He is very friendly, saying "Hi!" with excitement to everyone he sees. I feel so bad if they don't say hey back, because he watches them until they do.

He loves ball, kicking, throwing, and shooting in his hoop (okay at this point it's more of a dunk, but I'm working on the three). He loves books even more. One of our favorite activities is to play at the library a couple of times a week. Of course he still loves to be outside, but with the recent heat, we don't get out much unless it's to a water destination. I wish there were more shade trees in FL.

Other than Andrew...
I get out once a week to a women's Bible study on Thursday nights. Being that it's the first time in 14 months that I've actually done something consistently for myself, its a true blessing. We are studying the psalms of ascents (Beth Moore Stepping UP, to be exact). More on this in a later post.

I have been learning the game of couponing, I'll also have to write more about this later. I'm saving hundreds of dollars and getting a lot for free by pairing coupons up with sales and following a few blogs that tell you about the hot deals to be had. One such site is dealseekingmom.com and another is iheartcvs.com.

Well, hopefully that's enough to get my feet wet into blogging, again....

sorry for such an earful!

One Last Conversation

2009-04-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

If I could talk to my father one more time I would hope I could express clearly to him why I decided to move on without him. Not out of hatred and anger, but out of truth, I would want him to know what life was like without him around. I would want him to understand that a child can only be let down so many times before they give up on a person.

I would tell him I do have a few good memories from when I was real young, I only wish that they would've continued. Like when he would drive us in his old beat up pickup truck. He convinced us that it was a spaceship and would have us close our eyes as he pushed the magic button to take off. We'd close our eyes and he'd give a narrative of our space experience, sound effects and all. Or I'd remind him of us all singing "She'll be comin' arround the mountain when she comes," and other songs to pass time as we drove. And then there's one of my favorite. When he would read Sleeping Beauty to us sometimes before bed, he'd reverse the letters through the whole story and tell us about "Beeping Sleauty". We always squealed at how hillarious the story became.
Yes, if only the memories continued.

I would tell him it was hard to see him less and less. It was heartbreaking that he'd make promises that he wouldn't keep. He wasn't there when I needed a dad, and that wasn't fair. It wasn't fair that when he needed a shoulder to lean on, he expected me as a teenager to be that person. I would want him to know that he left a big hole in my heart.

I would tell him that in college, I found my true Father, one who would never leave or forsake me and who could fill that hole and continues to do so.

I would explain to him that he wanted to much from me after not being a part of my childhood. I'd make it clear that I wanted someone who had a large part of my life to walk me down the aisle, and therefore, couldn't fulfill his request to do so. I'd tell him it wasn't about him on that day.

I would tell him that I forgive him for all this. I'd explain that I could only do so through the forgiveness I have received in Christ. I know that there are things to which I need to be forgiven as well. I'd tell him that I know I didn't communicate clearly to him how I felt and that I needed to be forgiven for that. I trust that I am forgiven for any unhealthy ways that I have handled the past.

I would tell him that I just had to move on, that I could not carry the burden of him. I couldn't deal with the relationship as it was so I had to let go.

I would let him know that I understood, to a point, where he was coming from. I understand that life is hard and we crumble as we are dealt a hard hand. I'd want to empathize with the life he was dealt.

I would want him to know that I will not crumble and my life will not be in shambles because I have been restored in Christ. I would wish and pray that he'd know the same healing power that I have found.

I would want him to be in peace. I'd want him to experience forgiveness.

A Little Background

2009-04-30T05:04:00.000-07:00

This will probably be brief, but I hope to post more soon. Many of you have heard that my father passed away Sunday evening. His services will be Saturday, so we are visiting New Orleans and the Gulf Coast during our trek. This is not the typical (if there is such a thing) death of a parent. You see, I haven't spoken to my father in years. Growing up he was in and out of my life, coming and going as he pleased. He became an alcoholic and my times with him as a teenager were spent with him and his drunk friends who at times tried to come on to me. He would always say how he loved me and how proud he was of me, but I couldn't believe him. I thought, "how can you love me when you don't even know me." There came a point where I couldn't take it anymore. I had to move on and get on with my life, and that meant without hopes of him ever being there for me. The last time I talked to him was several years ago when he said that he wanted to give me away at my wedding. "Not a chance," I thought, but didn't say much about it. Recent years not seeing him has been more my decision and not his. I had just begun to think that maybe I should get in touch with him so that he could meet Andrew. However, it wasn't top on the priority list,as I didn't know how it would play out.

Monday morning I received the call that I knew would come at some point. My aunt was on the other end of the phone. She said that we had lost my dad. I don't understand a lot of what she said, but basically they found him in his bed on Monday morning.

My initial thoughts were, "Maybe I'll make it to the funeral." These didn't last long as I thought I should be there, if nothing else, for my brothers. When reality began to sink in I knew that I needed to be there for my own healing. Even though in many ways I said good bye to him a long time ago, there's more to be dealt with.

(I understand that this is very to the point and emotionless, kind of mater of fact). I apologize for this as it is the most natural way for me to speak of such things...

My feelings are all mixed up. Most of them are not what you might initially think when you hear that I lost my Father. I'll save them for another post, maybe later on today.

I covet your prayers as I work through all this. Also, that my family would see and know Christ. I haven't seen most of them in a very long time, so please play for the restorative process of our relationships and that I would clearly reflect the love of Christ in the midst of brokeness.

a.m. Life

2009-03-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

a.m. Life

2009-03-11T17:57:00.000-07:00

Lately we've been really busy with a.m. Life. That's a good thing! We've had shows on an average of two or three Saturdays a month. Unfortunatly I was not able to get into the Fort Pierce weekly market for this season. However, I am really hoping and praying to get into the Delray Affair in mid April. This is a three day show that draws in over 250,000 people! I decided last minute to enter because it is costly. Thankfully they were still taking applications, but now I'm just waiting to see if it made it in time and if I have a spot.

All that said, I've been as busy as a bee. I'm working hard to order shirts and build inventory. If you've considered supporting my business by buying a shirt or have any gift giving coming up, I'm trying to raise more money to order as much as possible to be prepared for this show. Currently all that is made is going back into the business, but it's fun to see God bless my efforts and to see people excited about what I'm doing.

Andrew's new climber

2009-02-28T19:02:00.000-08:00

I have recently had a few great finds on craigslist. This is a Step 2 Kangaroo Climber that Andrew absolutely loves. He loves playing peekaboo through all of the holes and going in and out of the door. The slide is fun too, but he still needs help! I've been excited about developing a small play area for him outside and will add a water table soon.

For the Young at Art

2009-02-28T18:57:00.001-08:00

I have started reading a book called "For the Young at Art." Very excited about it, we introduced Andrew to his first crayon today. He of course had to taste it and had black all over his face. He did succeed in making a few scribbles on the page and we were very excited. I really like the book and plan on following the suggestions to allow Andrew to develop creatively.

Months later

2009-02-22T17:55:00.000-08:00

A long time has lapsed since I last posted. People have actually asked me about it! I didn't know that others actually read this! Well, truth is, since striving so much to grow and live for Christ and then posting about it in previous posts, not much has happened. I have not grown as much as I wished. So I've somewhat avoided the blog thing. Pray that I could grow in my study of the Word and Prayer time with our Father.

On a regular day to day note. Andrew continues to amaze me. He says a few words and seems to know a lot. I was amazed the other night when I said, "Night Night," and he said it right back. I can't believe he'll be one soon, and am excited about celebrating his first birthday. He crawls at lightning speeds and stands well... soon he'll take his first steps!

I love craigslist and have recently had a few great finds... a jogging stroller and an outdoor "climber" ie playground thingy for Andrew. If you must know, I have not jogged
with it yet, but have taken some nice walks. I'm working myself up mentally to actually go running!

2008-12-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

As I continue to think about suffering for Christ, reading more and meditating more, I have been very weary. I also have noticed that I have been pretty "short" with people, especially Adam. I get frustrated and have a wall up, unintentionally, but leading to a mean and deffensive spirit.

I have come to realize that I am not leaning on Christ. I am not praying like I should be and I'm being beat up in what I think is Spiritual warfare. I think about doing this and that "in His steps" but have not fought in prayer. I have not utilized the most powerful weapon that God gives us.

It timed out well, that the Desiring God blog is about prayer and that this is their prayer week. I will also strive to focus on prayer this week and learn more about what it means to really depend on and walk with God.

Andrew's New Favorite Activity... Opening And Closing This Door.

2008-12-23T12:32:00.001-08:00

Posted with LifeCast

suffering for Christ or lack there of

2008-12-22T20:20:00.000-08:00

"...who are being protected by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials..."

1 Peter 1:3-7 has been tugging at my heart. It speaks of being protected by God's power through faith, about suffering through trials and testing your faith, and about the inexpressible joy that you receive when your faith proves strong sanctifying you and working in you the salvation of your souls.

I've also been reading In His Steps.
"The imitation of Jesus which had begun with the volunteers in the church was working like leaven in the organization, and Henry Maxwell would even thus early in his life have been amazed if he could have measured the extent of desire on the part of his people to take up the cross. While he was speaking this morning, before he closed with a loving appeal to the discipleship of two thousand years' knowledge of the Master,many a man and woman in the church was saying as Rachel had said so passionately to her mother: “I want to do something that will cost me something in the way of sacrifice.” “I am hungry to suffer something.” Truly, Mazzini was right when he said that no appeal is quite so powerful in the end as the call: “Come and suffer.”

Basically, I feel my life is so comfortable. I can't really think of any way that I am really suffering or any trials that I am going through. I can't help but wonder if I'm missing out on something. I want to experience the fullness of the joy that God gives when you follow Him completely sold out. I don't know what that means, but am praying for God's call to be made clear on how I can better follow Him daily.

Now, don't get me wrong... I know that following Christ may not always have "dramatic" evidence of suffering or trials. However, I feel a call to something more. I feel that in order for me to grow, I have to "go". GO and make disciples, GO and serve the poor, GO and take up my cross. This is a day to day battle and there are opportunities right under my nose that I should take as well as opportunities to step out more in the community.

Please pray for God's guidance and growth for me as I seek to follow Him more closely.

NO SCAR?

Hast thou no scar?
No hidden scar on foot, or side, or hand?
I hear thee sung as mighty in the land;
I hear them hail thy bright, ascendant star.
Hast thou no scar?

Hast thou no wound?
Yet I was wounded by the archers; spent,
Leaned Me against a tree to die; and rent
By ravening beasts that compassed Me, I swooned.
Hast thou no wound?

No wound? No scar?
Yet, as the Master shall the servant be,
And piercèd are the feet that follow Me.
But thine are whole; can he have followed far
Who hast no wound or scar?

BY AMY CARMICHAEL,

IRISH MISSIONARY TO INDIA FOR 55 YEARS

Little Fisherman

2008-12-22T17:28:00.001-08:00

Posted with LifeCast

missing New Orleans

2008-12-19T14:32:00.000-08:00

Today I stumbled across a cd of New Orleans music for children. Of course I got it for Andrew's stocking! I mean he does have to know and love music and culture, especially from New Orleans! Guess what I did when I got to the car? I like to call it "preview". I mean, common parents should always listen to their children's cd's before giving it to them, right? Well, my feet were tapping and my head was bobbing as I listened. Not only that, but I longed to be in New Orleans. Now I want to go to Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, the Strawberry fest, and every other fun place in New Orleans. The zoo, the aquarium, St Roch, Desire, Marigny, Deannie's, Yum....and Rachel's! I'd like to top it off with a bananna's foster cheesecake from the Cheesecake factory....
I think I just discovered my happy place! When I got home I did put the cd back in its case and into Andrew's stocking, but let me just say, I'm glad the little guy rides in my car so much!!!

Holidays

2008-12-17T06:17:00.001-08:00

This year I have been so busy that it hardly feels like we are in the holidays. Working in retail for corporate america is no fun during Thanksgiving and Christmas. On top of that I am busy with starting a business and trying to somewhat maintain the home, while at the same time love and care for Andrew.

I am in prayer that Christ would be glorified this season despite all that is going on around me. I desire to grow in Him and point to Him. I want to be more bold in sharing my faith to those around me. Chances are coming daily at work, now I want to follow the Spirit's prompting and speak up when He leads me. Please pray that my coworkers, customers, fellow artists, and family would see Christ through me. Pray they would know him as their Savior and friend.

catch up

2008-12-11T05:23:00.000-08:00

This is a brief post to try to get back in the habit of posting. Unfortunately, several times I have tried posting from my iphone with no luck. Oh well! We are doing great. Andrew is not crawling, but finds a way to get where he wants by rolling, scooting on his butt and crawling in reverse. He's also got one tooth so far. He likes to dance to the rhythm of music and he can recognize certain words and pictures. It's been amazing to watch his personality taking form. He is very active and loves being outside.

I'm continuing to work hard on a.m. Life and have several shows coming up. Between that, work, Andrew, and the house, I stay very busy!

Penguin waiting to take flight.

2008-11-02T07:43:00.001-08:00

On our way to Nana's. Andrew's awaitin his first flight.

Having a happy cool day.

2008-10-29T13:00:00.001-07:00

We are loving the cool weather for a change. Here is a pic of Andrew in his sweater. It just may be the only time he wears one this year!

Fun with camera lense effects.

2008-10-27T13:20:00.001-07:00

Andrew's first boat ride!

2008-10-27T13:18:00.001-07:00

Today we took Andrew out on the boat for the first time. He loved it and Adam said it was his greatest birthday present to have him on the boat.

Hints of personal spiritual revival

2008-10-26T18:57:00.001-07:00

Lately I've felt a tug at my heart to know Christ and serve Him with more than I have been. I've been blessed to be involved in a couple of studies at my church that have rekindled the Spirits fire within my heart and have given me a longing to live a life more true to my calling in Christ. It seems that in the business of day to day life, I constantly put Christ to the side and make excuses for it because of all that is going on. Now I am seeking discernment to how I should truly live in a way that glorifies God. I know that if I wait until I'm no longer busy as a mom and wife, I will never fully serve Christ to the lengths that he has called me to. Please pray that the eyes of my heart would be enlightened, that I would know the fullness of Christ and He would radiate from me to the lost and hurting as well as to my husband and son.

Love to swing

2008-10-24T04:50:00.001-07:00

At the park take two

2008-10-24T04:49:00.001-07:00

Uploaded - 10\24\08

2008-10-24T04:47:00.003-07:00

It worked. Next step, I'm removing all of you that get the emails when I post. If you would rather stay on the list let me know. I just know you may not want an email with every post if I'm posting a lot. Check the blog at your own lesure.

2008-10-24T04:47:00.001-07:00

This is a test, this is only a test

2008-10-24T04:43:00.001-07:00

I sent a few pics while at the park with Andrew and later noticed they hadn't published to the blog... Bummer. I'm trying to figure out why. Sorry for the meaningless post.

To long

2008-10-22T19:20:00.001-07:00

I've been unmotivated to blog and therefore have gotten way behind on things. Now I'm testing out blogging from my iPhone and am excited about the possibilty of posting things as they are occuring.

Yesturday Andrew got to swing at the park for the first time. He cracked up as I pushed him on the swing. He is really getting more and more fun as he discovers the world around him.

a.m. Life on Etsy.com

2008-09-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

hungry little man

2008-09-04T13:08:00.001-07:00

This week we introduced Andrew to solids! He loves eating already. We have a nifty video, but I can't seem to load it to the computer, so the pics will have to do for now!!!

Andrew is now 5 months old and continues to make us laugh and smile!

a.m. Life progress

2008-08-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

Many have asked me where I am at in my clothing line. I'm excited and encouraged as people are keeping tabs. So far, I have the equipment needed, the legal paperwork needed, some infant shirts ready to print on, a professional plastisol printer lined up, and most of the art work done for a first run of shirts. I need to do some finishing touches on the art work, and plan to send it in early this week. The turn around time to get them printed on plastisol is about 2 weeks because the company I've chosen has a high demand for these types of prints.

What is plastisol, you ask? Plastisol heat transfering is the method I've chosen to print my shirts. I chose it for many reasons, but ultimately it takes up less space, makes less of a mess, and frees me up to do the drawing and dying of my shirts more than screen printing. It is paper that artwork is printed on by a screen printer. The artwork is then transferred onto a shirt, or anything flat, by using a heat press using high heat and pressure. The quality of the print is the same as screen printing.

In the line up for my first run of shirts: Cownose Ray, Snook, Crawfish, Redfish, and one other (maybe blue crab).

Though I have only infant shirts, I do plan on ordering bigger sizes. If any of you want a shirt for an older kid, please let me know and I can get it for you. My plan is to have some ready to sell at the end of the month!

Thank you all for your encouragement. I've been having a lot of fun making this official!!! Still in the works are a website, marketing, and ordering larger sizes, bibs, and blankets! Also, a few adult shirt designs are in the making.

Rolling into month 4!!!

2008-08-01T17:35:00.000-07:00

August 3rd marks month 4 for our little buddy! It's amazing how much he continues to grow and his personality starts to show itself. He cracks me up sometimes. Last week he started making some kind of noise in the back of his mouth somewhat between a gurgle and a hiss...if you can imagine that! When I made the noise back, he laughed and repeated it to me. This game has not stopped!!! Today I put him in the baby einstein play center (whatever it's called). He loved it, turning himself around to explore every toy around him. It is so exciting to see him figure stuff out and grow as a little boy!

a. m. Life is moving along. This week I'm sending of some of the artwork to get printed and I hope to print some shirts by the end of a couple of weeks. It's been an up and down process as I figure out the ins and outs of business and clothing. I spend a lot of time researching and reading at t-shirtforums.com. Once I get some shirts printed, I'll open up a store on hyenacart.com as well as begin working on a site of my own. Scrounge up the change
from the couch cusions so that you can buy a t-shirt for your favorite little ones! I'll also have some adult shirts soon.

You crack me up!

2008-07-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

Andrew and his Nana

2008-07-03T15:34:00.000-07:00

3 months old!

2008-07-03T06:34:00.000-07:00

Andrew rounds the 3 month mark today. No longer can I just hold him without noticing, because he is getting heavy! We are having so much fun with him. He loves to talk and smile at us. When he actually learns to use words, I have a feeling he will talk non-stop. Must take after his poppa!

In business news, we have decided to name the clothing line "a.m. life" (andrew micah life). All of the names were good in one way or another, but this one just fits in so many ways. Here are some of the reasons, I may elaborate on them later: 1. the whole idea is because of him, 2. in so many ways he has brought new life to me, 3. the shirts are about nature and christianity (Life). 4. it is not overt, but has potential to be a Light for Christ and opportunity to share Him. 5. it is all inclusive and can grow past baby and toddler clothes.

I have ordered the most expensive startup item, a heat press. I found a great deal on the most reputable brand and can't wait to test it out. So far I have three fish designs and one monarch. (For those of you with girls, let me know what kinds of things you think would be a hit). I still need a printer combo, blank clothing, and to get some of the work professionally printed on plasticol paper, ready to put on shirts. For the dying of fabric, my aunt is graciously sending me here paints and some shirts. I need to get my LLC and want to raise money to trademark my name and logo. We are planning for this to be a big production that I will work on for a long time.

Also, I returned to work at ATT on July 1. I will be working 20 hours a week until we can afford not to. It is difficult, but okay. I am actually excited, because the new I phone comes out on July 11. I am sure that sales will be high and hope to do well from now through the holidays. If we do well enough, I can probably stay home starting in Jan.

Andrew is napping so when he wakes, I'll try to get a good 3 month old shot of my handsome little buddy.

Thanks to everyone for your excitement and support for my idea of the clothing line. It energizes and encourages me to know that this can be a big hit.

business name vote

2008-06-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

please take a moment to let me know what name you like best by using the poll on the right on my blogsite.

My vision for the clothing company is that it display original artwork by me. The work will be nature and fishing based as well as Christian based. I will start with infants and toddlers, but also want to print clothing for youth.

What do you think? Do you have any other ideas?

That's all for now. I need to catch some shuteye!

shocked.

2008-06-24T16:42:00.000-07:00

I'm a little shocked. What I thought was a before bedtime power nap for Andrew ended up being a really early bedtime. That leaves me in a present state of confusion, not really knowing what to do with myself!

Today I had a tooth extracted. I let a broken tooth get bad and the overall best long term solution was to have the tooth removed and look towards an implant. To my surprise, I didn't feel a thing. It is strange to have such a big gap in the back of my mouth!

I'm rethinking the clothing name. I need something that is somewhat all encompasing. I will do mostly nature and christian based themes so I need a catchy name for that....

New thought is my old design name, New Creations or CreationWare,
Created Critters... i don't know... give me some input here!!! I have to have the name to apply for my LLC.

Happenings

2008-06-23T03:33:00.000-07:00

WORKING HARD TO LIFT HIS HEAD!

1st Drawing for infant shirt

As of last week, they say that Andrew should be able to recognize his name. I have no doubt that he does, but more often it seems he thinks his name is handsome! Anytime I say "Hey Handsome!" his face lights up more than ever. He continues to amaze me and remind me of our Awesome God as he grows and develops. Speaking of names, I think that I will call my clothing company "Little Lights." I am still open to suggestion, because I'm not completely sold on this one. I wonder how the prominent clothing stores got their name, ie "Gymboree, Gap, etc.". I want a name that will stick and stand out. The snook is a drawing for the clothing. the back drawing is incomplete, but will include bait to catch snook. I also have a monarch design in the making, and plan on having 2-3 designs a week. In addition, I'm looking for a good quality heat press, sources for blank infant clothing, and looking towards getting my LLC shortly. My hope remains to stay home with my boy. I'm having fun getting back into drawing and want art to become a bigger part of my life. I'd hate for Andrew to grow up never knowing that I am an artist because I fail to practice it! I want him to be surrounded by art.

2008-06-14T07:17:00.000-07:00

Wow, what's that in my hand?Doing what all babies do best!

Somewhere between the toys in the bathtub, the rattle on the grocery list, the baby monitor on my hip, and the endless attempts to get my boy to nap, it has begun to sink in: I AM A MOM. After wondering when this little game of house would become reality in my mind, at two and a half months and counting reality has hit that this is no game, but indeed my life. More importantly, it's Andrew's life. I say this with a smile and excitement, "I truly love motherhood and my son."

Andrew continues to grow strong and hit all the milestones at a rapid rate. I can't believe how exciting I become as he hits each one in stride. Yesterday he rolled over from his tummy to his back and he grasped his rattle with delight as he realized he could shake it and make noise. And of course he did what every baby does best, put it right in his mouth. "Way to go Son!!!" I think the rolling over was a complete accident and don't know that it will happen again soon. Also, he now sleeps in the crib in his room at night...what a big boy!

Plans continue to develop to start a babies and children's clothing company. Right now the major task remains to come up with a catchy name and get the needed supplies. Do you have any ideas? I have so many ideas about what to do, but try to keep myself from running to crazy. I need to keep it small and simple at first so that I don't become overwhelmed and I can gauge how much we can handle!!!

2008-06-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

ONE HAPPY BOY!

At
GREAT GRAMMA aka GG

Search for day care...

This week I visited an in home day care and was really turned off by the idea of sending Andrew to a stranger while I go to work. I began daydreaming about possible ways for me to earn money at home. I often shop at a site that sells hand made goods online (Hyenacart.com). It is mostly stay at home moms who make stuff! Anyways, I get diapers there. SO what I am thinking is that I can make baby and toddler shirts and rompers to start. I will dye them (like the one pictured above that my aunt made) and design artwork to print on them. I want to get a simple screen printer to print my artwork on the shirts. I will also make matching diapers for all those crazy cloth diapering mamas!!! Maybe even hats, bibs, and booties to match.

My plan is to scrounge up enough money to buy the necessary supplies, make the clothes, start selling, and work at ATT as I start up to make sure that it brings in enough cashflow. We don't need much really. And I really want to stay home with my boy!

2 months old

2008-06-03T12:01:00.000-07:00

I am blown away that it has been two months since we welcomed Andrew into this world! WOW!!! He is growing so fast! With many of my friends and people in my church having babies, he is no longer the new kid in town! However, we are still so new at this. I feel like my life and outlook has transformed so much in just two months. Life changes when looked at through the lense of motherhood. It's hard to explain, but you mothers out there know what I am talking about. Love and Joy have blossomed within me, but so has worry and anxiety. I usually don't think about myself first now, but of Andrew. I am filled with joy when I hold him or he gives me a smile. I never was one to worry about anything, but now I find myself constantly checking to see if Andrew is still breathing in the middle of the night, not to mention the nightmares I consistently have of something bad happening to him! Now I know what God's Word means when it talks about worry. Now it's time to grow in those areas and trust in Him more and more for his grace and provision.

Today Andrew had his first round of shots. Besides turning purple in the face and bolting out a loud scream, he took it pretty well. Good thing, because I did not look forward to it at all! Now he's sleeping and recovering.

photos of the week

2008-05-30T12:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday at the Oceanagraphic Center
About to try out the pool for the first time!
Happy to be out of the pool... it was too windy!

multi tasking

2008-05-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

I've been stepping over crumbs long enough! Today I tested out the power of a sling. I still have to figure out how to put it on correctly, but I got it to work. I was able to get some house cleaning done, though there always seems to be more! I also discovered Andrew's love for the vacuum white noise!

We made it to 6 weeks!

2008-05-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

Today Andrew hit the 6 week mark. As you can see, he still sleeps a lot. I think it's because he's growing like crazy. Six weeks seems like a big hump to cross over in many ways. I'm just thankful that we got this far and haven't "broken the baby"! Maybe we just can do this parenting thing. Andrew sends his love!

2008-05-12T16:26:00.000-07:00

Here's Andrew in one of his snazziest cloth diapers. I think it's so cute!!! I've really enjoyed using cloth more than using disposables. It feels better to not have to buy new diapers all the time and the ones that I have seem to do better than the disposables. No blowouts in cloth to date... several in huggies and pampers. Laundry is not so bad. I actually enjoy it!

mother's day

2008-05-11T17:48:00.001-07:00

the longest trip ever

2008-05-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

I honestly don't know what I was thinking. Actually, I think it is safer to say that I wasn't thinking.

Yesterday, I ventured across the state of FL with Andrew. Adam is teaching a boat training class in Ft. Myers, FL Monday through Thursday. I hated the thought of being without him and left at home to care for Andrew.

Mistake number one: Driving 4 hours, thinking it would be easy to travel with a one month old baby.
Mistake number two: Thinking I could do it by myself.

The first couple of hours were fine. After that it was a nightmare. I stopped at every possible stop, whether that be gas stations or a driveway on the side of the road. By the end of the trip I had heard Andrew's cry in every octave possible. And just think, I have to make the same drive on Thursday!

Now that I'm here it is not that bad. A change of scenery is good. Plus, free cable is a bonus! and it's nice to be with Adam, having his encouragement to push me along.

On the upside, Andrew has started smiling at me! It's not the gassy, we'll pretend it's a smile grimace, but an actual smile that lights up his whole face. I love it!

His one month check up was yesturday. He weighed in at 9 lbs 1 oz and is 21 3/4 inches long.
Doc said he is growing well. His eyes, ears, and heart were all good. All previous testings came back good. He has been fussy in the evenings and has had bad gas, so we were given a colic prescription. What we thought was diaper rash is actually and infection so we are on antibiotics and watching that very closly. In addition, he is airing out with no diaper whenever possible. Translation... pee on mama! I have learned that he likes to pee when he nurses and to take extra precaution. The rash is on the front on the lower abdomen, so I have progressed to a large diaper open at the front to let the air in. hopefully that will keep him from covering everything in our hotel room!

What an adventure!

"Hi, I'm new here!"

2008-05-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody! My name is Andrew and today I'm 4 weeks old. Mom says she can hardly believe it and that I'm growing so fast! I am learning so much! I love to move my arms and hands. Sometimes I can even get my hand into my mouth. I can also lift and turn my head and everyday I'm getting stronger. I can't wait to be strong enough to go fishing with dad or shoot hoops with mom. For now I am exploring the world around me and having a great time! I can't wait to meet all of you! Mom says its time to go change my diaper! TTYL

It's great to get out!!!

2008-04-28T11:03:00.000-07:00

We have had a few chances to get out of the house and it has done wonders for my mental state! Yesterday was my first time back at church and it has never felt so refreshing. I loved showing off Andrew, but even more it felt like life had some sort of normalcy to it. Worship and fellowship renewed me from within.

After church we were able to go out to lunch with a few friends. It was fun to talk about parenthood with the other moms and again, things seemed "normal". Andrew was a breeze throughout, though last night he was up every two hours.

I'm looking forward to things continuing to fall into a state of mild "normalcy"

gotta love him!

2008-04-27T17:08:00.001-07:00

Andrew Micah's Birth Story

2008-04-27T12:37:00.000-07:00

"For you created me in my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139: 13, 14

Has anyone ever recorded just how many emotions there are? And I wonder how many
one person can experience in a small amount of time. Also, how many changes can really occur in a life in just a few days?

I am so small in relation to all that is going on around me. My life is at this moment a whirlwind of excitement, elation, fatigue, exhaustion, praise, joy, thanksgiving, confusion, love, nervousness, appreciation, fear, pain, relief, oh and love…love…love.

As April 3rd rolled in with the clock changing from ll: 59 pm to 12:am, my world was about to be rocked. A few minutes after midnight, I leaped up from my slumber leaving a small puddle behind me and a stream following me to the bathroom. "This must be it, but when should I actually leave? I tried to lay back down… way to painful. Then I started to time contractions, which seemed strong but irregular and confusing. Two and a half hours later I woke up Adam, we timed contractions, but ultimately didn't get it and decided to go to the hospital. We arrived at the hospital at around 3:30 AM and learned my water had broken and I would be there for the long haul. All anticipated a quick delivery, because I was close to 4 cm dilated and very very effaced. For a few seconds I thought about having no epidural. Those thoughts lost to the pain of each contraction, and I took the epidural, which carried me through the next several hours. I was amazed as I watched the monitors show the contractions soar off of the chart and my baby's heart rate fluctuate with each one. A little before 2 PM, contractions began hurting again, the epidural would not quench them, and I started to feel the urge to push…PUSH!

The pushing was welcomed and actually felt good as I worked with each
contraction to bring Andrew into this world. GOOD, but EXAUSTING, to all who were involved! I used rhythm and visualization to focus on pushing. Those who know me will not be surprised to learn that I pictured myself playing around the world in rhythm to the
nurses counting to 10. Each series carried me around the arch and back with focus, determination and power using a muscle I had never used before. When basketball didn't work, I tried many other means of focus. And at the end when we were so close, but just couldn't come over the top, I went into the strongest prayers that I had ever offered. I gave it to Andrew's Lord and Maker, asked him to make it happen and to bring His child into this world, because I could not do anything more. Every time it came time to push, I would focus all my attention in His direction. At this point, his head was so close to being completely out, the doctors and medical team seemed to multiply around me, and everyone was shouting "just one more!" I dug down deep in prayer, pushed, and Andrew came mostly into this world. His shoulder was caught, and I don't remember all that really happened, I just know that one of the nurses had actually jumped on my bed and we were all pushing and pulling in one direction or another to get Andrew here once and for all!

Praise, Elation, Joy and amazement poured through me as I heard his cries and all took a deep breath of relief after a hard days work for the nurses and doctors, and a life altering one for Adam and I. My hands went up in the air like I had just been a part of the biggest victory of all time, with tears of extreme joy I shouted out "Yes! Yes! Yes!" I offered aloud thanks and praises to the One who pulled me through.

It was 3:58 pm when Andrew Micah Tarplee was born. He weighed 8 pounds 2 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Adam and I are in love with this little life changer and are thankful to our Maker and Father for bringing us a healthy baby boy. Most of the time we don't really know what we are doing, but we are learning as we love, feed, change, and nurture our little boy.

Anticipation

2008-02-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

This is my first post, and if I let myself it could be a loaded one!!! Think I'll hold back though. I'm now 30 weeks pregnant and will have a little pooper in 8-12 weeks!!! Wow! Adam and I are excited, but scared. Is this really about to happen??? Nothing is ready around the house, but with each day we are closer to the reality of parenthood. But forget the fact that the house isn't ready...what about us? It is a scarry reality that we will be responsible for a baby before we know it.

All that said, every baby I see, I melt and can't wait to see my little man. I wonder what he will be like, what he will look like, if he'll be as unorganized as Adam and myself, or if he'll be the one that is particular and clean. Will he love sports like us? Will he be artistic? I can't wait to see!