Yummy Cake!
Blowing out the candle (With a little help from Grandma)
Fun times with my new kitchen from Mommy & Daddy! :)
Monday, March 19, 2007
More B-day pics...
Blowing out the candle (With a little help from Grandma)Fun times with my new kitchen from Mommy & Daddy! :)
Dora B-day party pictures
Decorations galore...
A special cake from Grammy & Grandpa...
Party Girl...
Hanging with friends & family...
"More presents for me?"
26+ Hours I Will Never Forget
This time 2 years ago, I was laying in bed reading Psalms in an effort to find peace for my agitated heart. It was raining outside. I was "15" months pregnant... 2 days past my due date. Despite the Braxton Hicks contractions that had been coming at steady 5 minute intervals, my doctor told me the day before that my baby was at LEAST another week away from arriving. This news had been VERY upsetting to me. I had already used one week of my maternity leave. My time at home was going to be limited once Emily arrived...and the thought of "wasting" another week was unbearable. My parents had already arrived anticipating a 2 week stay. With the latest news from the doctor, they decided that they would only stay the weekend. On Monday, they would head home. They assured me they would stay on standby mode...ready to come as soon as they got the notorious "call". Things were not going as planned...and my nerves were fried. Thus, I could be found curled up in bed, seeking comfort from God that my husband and parents couldn't give (though they were trying!). Finally it came. I truly felt like He told me He had everything under control...and that things would be okay.
This day 2 years ago was also a very important day for my husband. He was to have one of his biggest concerts yet. It was to be held at the Paramount Theater in Anderson. I was very excited for him. Even in spite of how emotional I was, I was very thankful that Emily hadn't chosen to arrive at a time that would keep Aaron from missing his concert. After a power walk at our church with my dad, we headed home to get ready for the big event.
I was determined to look my best that night. Well, as best as one can can get while looking like a bloated whale. :) 3:00pm hit. I was somewhere between completeing the makeup and taking the curlers out. I had this sudden urge to sit down for a few minutes. I went into the living room and sat on the couch only to have a "gas pain" take me by suprise. I don't usually deal with that issue, but...hey...when you're pregnant, you don't ask questions. Your body calls the shots. :) Not giving it any more thought, I hurried to finish getting ready.
I remember the trip to Anderson with my dad. I had 3 or 4 more "gas pains" on the way down. At one point, it finally dawned on me that maybe these weren't gas pains after all. I casually mentioned it to my dad. We still weren't too convinced anything exciting was going on.
The concert was WONDERFUL! I was so proud of my hubby. :) One of the other acts was a comedian. He was hilarious and kept me laughing so hard. Funny... my "gas pains" came right as the comedian would tell his funniest jokes. It's a strange thing...laughing in pain. Halfway through the evening, I (and others around me) finally got the drift that these weren't gas pains...but contractions. My dad and I began to time them. I have to confess, my focus wasn't completely on the concert at this point. :)
By the time the concert was over, the equipment torn down and the trailer loaded, things were getting pretty serious. It wasn't exactly fun and games at that point. We headed back home to Marion where I spent the next several hours crushing Aaron's hand, trying to listen to my Mom's instructions on breathing, and dreading Dad's subtle warnings that his watch indicated another contraction would soon be on it's way. At 1:00AM, our doctor gave us the okay to head to the hospital. At 5:07pm, Emily proved our doctor wrong & decided to join us...26 hours after that first 3:00pm pain.
This past Saturday, we celebrated her 2nd b-day. After the party was over, the house cleaned up & Emily was tucked in her bed asleep, I crept into her room. I sat on her floor and just looked at her. It's so amazing to look at another human being and see a little bit of you and a little bit of your spouse. My thoughts turned to prayers as I thought of her future...and the days she's already graced us with. I regret how quickly the time is flying by. I don't understand how she can be 2 already. However, as I watched her sleep, I couldn't help but get excited and dreaming of the future. Days where b-day lists change from toys to I-Pods. Days where she tells me of the latest drama at school. Days where we sit planning her wedding.
Emily, I just want you to I'm so proud of you! 2 years ago, my world dramatically changed. Though not every moment of motherhood is always "loveable"... I have loved YOU every moment. Your daddy loves you so much too. You take our breath away. You're at a very fun age right now. You're constantly learning new things and making us laugh. Your personality is DEFINITLEY developing and coming through. I so look forward to this next year of your life. I can't wait to see what it holds. I thank Jesus for you everyday, and I can't wait to see the plans He has for you.
This day 2 years ago was also a very important day for my husband. He was to have one of his biggest concerts yet. It was to be held at the Paramount Theater in Anderson. I was very excited for him. Even in spite of how emotional I was, I was very thankful that Emily hadn't chosen to arrive at a time that would keep Aaron from missing his concert. After a power walk at our church with my dad, we headed home to get ready for the big event.
I was determined to look my best that night. Well, as best as one can can get while looking like a bloated whale. :) 3:00pm hit. I was somewhere between completeing the makeup and taking the curlers out. I had this sudden urge to sit down for a few minutes. I went into the living room and sat on the couch only to have a "gas pain" take me by suprise. I don't usually deal with that issue, but...hey...when you're pregnant, you don't ask questions. Your body calls the shots. :) Not giving it any more thought, I hurried to finish getting ready.
I remember the trip to Anderson with my dad. I had 3 or 4 more "gas pains" on the way down. At one point, it finally dawned on me that maybe these weren't gas pains after all. I casually mentioned it to my dad. We still weren't too convinced anything exciting was going on.
The concert was WONDERFUL! I was so proud of my hubby. :) One of the other acts was a comedian. He was hilarious and kept me laughing so hard. Funny... my "gas pains" came right as the comedian would tell his funniest jokes. It's a strange thing...laughing in pain. Halfway through the evening, I (and others around me) finally got the drift that these weren't gas pains...but contractions. My dad and I began to time them. I have to confess, my focus wasn't completely on the concert at this point. :)
By the time the concert was over, the equipment torn down and the trailer loaded, things were getting pretty serious. It wasn't exactly fun and games at that point. We headed back home to Marion where I spent the next several hours crushing Aaron's hand, trying to listen to my Mom's instructions on breathing, and dreading Dad's subtle warnings that his watch indicated another contraction would soon be on it's way. At 1:00AM, our doctor gave us the okay to head to the hospital. At 5:07pm, Emily proved our doctor wrong & decided to join us...26 hours after that first 3:00pm pain.
This past Saturday, we celebrated her 2nd b-day. After the party was over, the house cleaned up & Emily was tucked in her bed asleep, I crept into her room. I sat on her floor and just looked at her. It's so amazing to look at another human being and see a little bit of you and a little bit of your spouse. My thoughts turned to prayers as I thought of her future...and the days she's already graced us with. I regret how quickly the time is flying by. I don't understand how she can be 2 already. However, as I watched her sleep, I couldn't help but get excited and dreaming of the future. Days where b-day lists change from toys to I-Pods. Days where she tells me of the latest drama at school. Days where we sit planning her wedding.
Emily, I just want you to I'm so proud of you! 2 years ago, my world dramatically changed. Though not every moment of motherhood is always "loveable"... I have loved YOU every moment. Your daddy loves you so much too. You take our breath away. You're at a very fun age right now. You're constantly learning new things and making us laugh. Your personality is DEFINITLEY developing and coming through. I so look forward to this next year of your life. I can't wait to see what it holds. I thank Jesus for you everyday, and I can't wait to see the plans He has for you.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Picture 2'nd attempt
This picture is actually pretty dated. It's from last July. We were getting ready to head to the beach in Muskegon. I tried to put a more recent picture on, but it kept showing up all black. Weird. More pics. to come soon!Emily
Amy...this one is for you. :) It's not the best...but I think it's precious none-the-less. Then again, I'm probably a tad bit prejudice. :)
Update...
Perhaps the best place to start is with an update. :)
We are still (and will remain for awhile) a family of 3.
Emily is getting ready to turn 2 this month. I can NOT believe this. It's just not possible that it's already been this long. Her birth STILL seems like just yesterday. It's been an incredible 2 years, though. I'm thankful for every day that God has allowed Aaron and I to be her parents.
She has a delightful personality. Very strongwilled at times, yet obedient (for the most part). She loves to laugh and giggle. Anyone who will chase her, tickle her toes or sit and play with her gets a star in her book. She loves to watch Dora and Bugs Bunny. Her vocabulary amazes us, and we get such a kick out of listening to her talk. She actually tells us that she loves us now, and she's learning to talk to Jesus. :) Emily has 2 best friends. There is a couple at church that have twin girls almost exactly 6 months younger than Emily. She thinks Natalie and Lilly are the living end.
Emily LOVES to snuggle. I'm so thankful God gave me a cuddly daughter.
I think one of the most delightful things about being Emily's mommy is that even the most mundane things in life can now be the grandest adventures. Grocery shopping and trips to "Mal-Mart" (read: Wal-Mart) are exciting with Emily who is constantly checking out her world with squeals of delight. With the exception of Pneumonia this winter, her health has been excellent. She's recovered beautifully from that, and we didn't even have to put her in the hospital. Emily has brought so much joy to our world. She is such a blessing from God.
I'm still madly in love with this guy named "Aaron". :) Aaron is a wonderful man. He's a better husband and father than I dared to dream God would bless me with. I wish you could see him with Emily(who just adores her Daddy!). He's so patient with her. He's firm when it comes to discipline, yet he is so gentle and tender. Aaron and Emily are each other's favorite playmates. :) Those two are going to have a LOT of special daddy/daughter times in the years ahead. Emily has an ear infection this week. Yesterday, I had to go to work and Aaron took the day off to stay with her. I had NO qualms whatsoever about leaving her with him. He gave her top notch care. She had the right medicine at the right time, was given good food to eat, & got her nap in when it was needed. I didn't have to worry. That's something I DON'T take for granted.
Aaron is starting back to school this week. :) I'm soooo proud of him! There is a new program being offered at IWU. He'll be able to take online classes and wrap up his degree in no time flat. We're very excited about this...and VERY thankful for the tuition benefit I get through my job. :)
Aaron and his brother Jonathan still travel with their music ministry on the weekends. It's so much fun. We're actually in a lull right now, which is typical for this time of year. It's hard to schedule churches between Christmas and Easter. We've enjoyed the down time and having an opportunity to be more involved at church. However, things will pick up again in April. Once we get on the road, I'll post about what it's REALLY like traveling with Waterin2Wine. :)
In addidtion to being a husband, father, student & traveling singer, Aaron also works a full-time, 2nd shift job. He's a busy guy! I couldn't be prouder of anyone else though. I thank God often that I'm the lucky gal who got to be Aaron's wife. :)
I'm doing well also. I'm really enjoying life at the moment. Still working full-time. However, I now get to work Fridays at home. THAT is a WONDERFUL blessing. It makes everything so much more manageable. Our days are busy and intense, but our weekends are wonderful. I'm learning so much about God's daily supply of grace and mercy. He's been so good to me. :)
Between working, trying to keep the house, teaching our Wed. night kids' club, being a wife & mother, I really don't have much time for hobbies. :) That's NOT to say I don't have fun, or occasionaly get time to myself. I'm getting to know some people from church better. When the right mood strikes, I love to go shopping. Once and awhile I even get to pull a good book from the shelf. :) Not mention, I got to take a spontaneous trip to Kansas just days before Christmas to witness the birth of our dear friends' son. (I did almost get stranded at Chicago O'Hare for Christmas...but that's another story.) Even though things are busy, I can't imagine life being much sweeter.
Well, I have a little girl who is trying to come between me and the computer asking to snuggle. So, I'm going to sign off and enjoy some snuggling. :) Take care, and I PROMISE...you'll hear form us soon! :)
We are still (and will remain for awhile) a family of 3.
Emily is getting ready to turn 2 this month. I can NOT believe this. It's just not possible that it's already been this long. Her birth STILL seems like just yesterday. It's been an incredible 2 years, though. I'm thankful for every day that God has allowed Aaron and I to be her parents.
She has a delightful personality. Very strongwilled at times, yet obedient (for the most part). She loves to laugh and giggle. Anyone who will chase her, tickle her toes or sit and play with her gets a star in her book. She loves to watch Dora and Bugs Bunny. Her vocabulary amazes us, and we get such a kick out of listening to her talk. She actually tells us that she loves us now, and she's learning to talk to Jesus. :) Emily has 2 best friends. There is a couple at church that have twin girls almost exactly 6 months younger than Emily. She thinks Natalie and Lilly are the living end.
Emily LOVES to snuggle. I'm so thankful God gave me a cuddly daughter.
I think one of the most delightful things about being Emily's mommy is that even the most mundane things in life can now be the grandest adventures. Grocery shopping and trips to "Mal-Mart" (read: Wal-Mart) are exciting with Emily who is constantly checking out her world with squeals of delight. With the exception of Pneumonia this winter, her health has been excellent. She's recovered beautifully from that, and we didn't even have to put her in the hospital. Emily has brought so much joy to our world. She is such a blessing from God.
I'm still madly in love with this guy named "Aaron". :) Aaron is a wonderful man. He's a better husband and father than I dared to dream God would bless me with. I wish you could see him with Emily(who just adores her Daddy!). He's so patient with her. He's firm when it comes to discipline, yet he is so gentle and tender. Aaron and Emily are each other's favorite playmates. :) Those two are going to have a LOT of special daddy/daughter times in the years ahead. Emily has an ear infection this week. Yesterday, I had to go to work and Aaron took the day off to stay with her. I had NO qualms whatsoever about leaving her with him. He gave her top notch care. She had the right medicine at the right time, was given good food to eat, & got her nap in when it was needed. I didn't have to worry. That's something I DON'T take for granted.
Aaron is starting back to school this week. :) I'm soooo proud of him! There is a new program being offered at IWU. He'll be able to take online classes and wrap up his degree in no time flat. We're very excited about this...and VERY thankful for the tuition benefit I get through my job. :)
Aaron and his brother Jonathan still travel with their music ministry on the weekends. It's so much fun. We're actually in a lull right now, which is typical for this time of year. It's hard to schedule churches between Christmas and Easter. We've enjoyed the down time and having an opportunity to be more involved at church. However, things will pick up again in April. Once we get on the road, I'll post about what it's REALLY like traveling with Waterin2Wine. :)
In addidtion to being a husband, father, student & traveling singer, Aaron also works a full-time, 2nd shift job. He's a busy guy! I couldn't be prouder of anyone else though. I thank God often that I'm the lucky gal who got to be Aaron's wife. :)
I'm doing well also. I'm really enjoying life at the moment. Still working full-time. However, I now get to work Fridays at home. THAT is a WONDERFUL blessing. It makes everything so much more manageable. Our days are busy and intense, but our weekends are wonderful. I'm learning so much about God's daily supply of grace and mercy. He's been so good to me. :)
Between working, trying to keep the house, teaching our Wed. night kids' club, being a wife & mother, I really don't have much time for hobbies. :) That's NOT to say I don't have fun, or occasionaly get time to myself. I'm getting to know some people from church better. When the right mood strikes, I love to go shopping. Once and awhile I even get to pull a good book from the shelf. :) Not mention, I got to take a spontaneous trip to Kansas just days before Christmas to witness the birth of our dear friends' son. (I did almost get stranded at Chicago O'Hare for Christmas...but that's another story.) Even though things are busy, I can't imagine life being much sweeter.
Well, I have a little girl who is trying to come between me and the computer asking to snuggle. So, I'm going to sign off and enjoy some snuggling. :) Take care, and I PROMISE...you'll hear form us soon! :)
Fresh Start
It's time to start again. I've missed blogging. So, I'm going to attempt it again. I'm not making promises of a daily post. However, I will try to commit to at least once a week. That should be manageable...right?
(Although...I'm not sure who will even be reading it. I'm sure most people have long given up hope)
Here goes nothing!
(Although...I'm not sure who will even be reading it. I'm sure most people have long given up hope)
Here goes nothing!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
