More Than Enough

Running the Race Set Before Us

2010-10-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

I'm obsessed with life being compared to a race. I'm obsessed with how our bodies respond and how our spirits and emotions respond as we try to pace ourselves and run our best race. The Bible talks about laying aside encumbrances and running with endurance.

I feel like a sprinter trying to make it in a marathon.

What helps you run your best race? When do you feel the wind behind your back and the road rising up to meet you?

PS - I don't want to state the obvious, because it might not be that obvious - I'm not asking about running. I'm asking about life - life as a race.

It's been a Jonah Day

2010-09-26T17:09:00.000-07:00

If you have never read or watched Anne of Green Gables - a Jonah Day is when things just don't go quite right. Not sure when I will next have the courage to attend a birthday party with my little guy - today was a disaster. It fell right in the middle of nap time but I thought we were safe. Oh no, not even close to anything that resembles "safe."

Parenting was a joy and almost honeymoonish for us the first two years. We waited so long and a poopy diaper and midnight cry were wonderful things for us! Parenting is now quite challenging.

I have a smart, funny, clever, curious, active, boy who is also, sassy, defiant, contrary, sneaky and disrespectful. Did I mention that I love him very much!? He gave me a run for my money today. I left the party with tears in my eyes, holding the hand of a sticky, tear-stained, single-socked boy who was sobbing, "I want to stay at the party!!!!" Trust me, no one else wanted him to stay! We would have been out of there a bit faster but I couldn't find that other sock! Finally, sock be damned, I'm leaving!!!!!

The ride home wasn't much improved. The bag of pinata candy was going in the trash the second we arrived home and bedtime was to begin at 4:10pm. Daddy and son had a chat. It didn't "end" well for Daniel.

I have a new stack for my reading table. I think an early retirement and a little prayer time are in order for me! You see, Mommy too is smart, funny, clever, curious, sassy, defiant, contrary, and disrespectful. Change me Lord - don't let me stay the same.

Big Hair Challenge

2009-01-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

I realize that after a long break from blogging, coming back with such a silly post is, well, silly, but I couldn't resist. Sharon and I had been talking about the "big hair" thing many months ago and I told her I thought I had bigger hair than she did and she challenged me! So, now I challenge all of you. Post your "biggest hair" photo you can find. This photo was taken in April 1991 (I was 28 at the time). I know - what was I thinking! Let's refrain from beginning a discussion on the outfit! I think my pants are turquoise blue!

Making the Best of a Bad Situation

2008-09-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

Two Years Ago Today...

2008-09-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

I was trying to track down my husband. I needed to speak with him about a baby boy that was born in Newport, Oregon just a few days prior that needed to go home that day with his forever family. I was having a little trouble finding Jim through the phone or email so about 10.25am, I jumped in my car and drove to his office. I left a desk covered with papers and computer still logged in.

Jim and I finally connected and after a few more hours, we drove home with our son that very evening. What a day! I will never forget.

I will also never forget the kind and loving friends that were there in Salem waiting for us with baby items and even some frozen dinners. It was about 10pm mind you. I think Abby got her boys out of bed to be there!!! What a blessing.

Now Daniel is two years old and I can hardly imagine our lives without him. What a difference a day makes!

With God, all things are possible. I REALLY BELIEVE THAT!

Requests

2008-08-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

My day begins with a request. "Sin', sin'." Translation - "sing." Further translation - "Please turn on the music."

More requests - "Poo poo! Poo poo!" Translation - "Let's go to the backyard and look for any dog poop and then pick it up right away!"

Another request - "Foffee" Translation - "Can I have a sip of your coffee?" (By the way, we thought by giving him a sip of black coffee we would stop future requests - it didn't work.)

Jim comes home from work every day to the same request - "Mayo. Mayo." Translation - "Can we go and get the mail from the mailbox?"

I think what Daniel is really requesting is that we love him and spend time with him. Our answer, “OK, we will!”

March 2008

2008-07-09T20:06:00.001-07:00

Catching up some more!

2008-07-06T21:56:00.001-07:00

Check out Phillipians 4:8

2008-05-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

Shout out to my husband's blog! Yes, he is blogging now. He has been a long-time reader of a few blogs that explore "end times" issues and theological questions. He's been only a "commenter" up to this point and decided to take the plunge. His motivations for blogging are different than mine but I enjoy reading about topics we have discussed together and seeing a broader explanation of his views and opinions. It may not be your cup of tea - OR - it may spark in you a side of yourself that has been laying dormant. Give it a peek. (You must know that I think he's brilliant but he can't be right about everything - comment away but keep in mind, this is the man I love.)

I say it again - Thank you Lord

2008-05-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

I have cried so many times this week. I have seen only a glimpse of His love for me through the gift of Daniel. His grace has set me free - what more could I need? He is so More Than Enough!

YET - He keeps on giving. Everyday I see His kind intensions toward me. And still He chose to allow me the privelege of being Daniel's mother. I am so not deserving but I receive my new post with gladness.

My son has called out to me, yelling "Mommy! Gu dat ree su mo u la." I think he was trying to tell me it was time to come in from playing outside. I have received so many kisses - pecks, tongue kisses, slobbery kisses and even a kiss blown across the yard with perfect precision. He reaches out and touches me just to be sure I am still there. He lays his head on my shoulder as I sing him to sleep. He walks over and pats my leg once in a while just to let me know that he knows I'm there and he doesn't want me to get lonely. I get cheesy smiles just for fun. Oh how I love Daniel and how I love the way he loves me.

Happy Mother's Day to me. Happy Mother's Day to you! And for those who are still waiting, I remember that ache and I know His intensions toward you are kind.

Grazie Signore

2008-05-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

Here is an exerpt from the book I'm reading, Ragamuffin Gospel. The author, Brennan Manning uses a song written by the court composer to the Austrian emperor as an example of what "lies at the heart of our response to the graciousness of God and the gospel of grace."

Grazie Signore, for Your lips twisted in love to accommodate my sinful self; for judging me not by my shabby good deeds but by Your love that is Your gift to me; for You unbearable forgiveness and infinite patience with me; for other people who have greater gifts than mine; and for the honesty to acknowledge that I am a ragamuffin. When the final curtain falls and You summon me home, may my last whispered word on earth be the wholehearted cry, "Grazie, Signore."

~Antonio Salieri

No Special Reason

2008-04-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

Just posting something new to show off my new layout! I got a little carried away this evening hunting down a new look. I liked the old new look except for the transparency of the post area. It made the pictures look funny.

Had a great dinner and movie time with a dear friend last night. She's on the edge of adulthood as she is graduating from college in just a few weeks. To be so young again and with the whole world at your feet.

We watched Dan In Real Life. I just love that movie. Anything that can make me laugh out loud and also cause me to tear up a bit - that's a movie worth watching. I felt like I was allowed to join a family for a weekend and catch up on all the siblings' lives and their children's lives. Great movie - I highly recommend it.

I'm reading a book right now called The Ragamuffin Gospel. It's about the grace of God and just how far it extends. So far, I'm OK with it. It's rubbing a little the wrong way at times - confronting some of my deep rooted ideas about just how grace is given and to whom and how easily. I didn't know I had any deep rooted ideas about this until they were confronted. It's a good thing to have your ideas challenged. Sometimes we have them and we don't even know how we got them or why they are what they are. I'll let you know how it all turns out in the end!

I have files all over the dining room table right now! We are trying to get a handle on our system and streamline things. Jim is good about saving things we need - I'm better at putting it somewhere where we can actually find it when needed. We are team! Like any good husband-wife project, it can be a challenge to always see eye-to-eye on how it should be done. We have had much bigger arguments over files and filing in past years. This time around - not so much. I guess that means our marriage is getting better?!?

Speaking of marriage - we are headed to our 19th anniversary. I know! Nineteen years!!! I can honestly say, I can't imagine a better husband for me. With all that life has thrown at us over the years, Jim has been the best friend, prayer partner, sympathizer, confidant, and counselor. I really love that guy!

Daniel - well honestly - he got on my nerves today. I can truthfully say that rarely happens. I am mostly enamored by everything he does and says. Today - not so much. He is really going to have to start using some words to make his requests known. Grunting, screaching and pointing are getting old. He's right at that point where he is going to just start talking but I would like to rush things a bit. He's still my little sweet pie and I love him.

He's crying! ? ! Not sure why - better go check.

I Wish I Was...

2008-04-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

More Composed than Nervous;

More Light-Hearted than Depressive;

More Quiet than Active-Social;

More Inhibited than Expressive-Responsive;

More Sympathetic than Indifferent;

More Objective than Subjective;

More Submissive than Dominant;

More Tolerant than Hostile;

More Self Disciplined than Impulsive

The "Taylor-Johnson Temperment Analysis" covers these personality traits and the opposites. I think I took this before Jim and I got married. I wanted to be everything I wasn't. I am not so sure it was a positive experience for me.

I found out I am not all that merciful and Jim was full of mercy. I found out we were both very dominant and we should "look out for trouble" in this area. Ahh, duh! I used to think that Active-Social was great until I sensed that many wished that I would just stop talking. I used to think that being vulnerable and sharing was a good thing until I sensed that awkward moment when the listener was squirming over the rawness of my life story. I thought being impulsive was "fun" until I discovered I had no clean socks to wear when I wanted to race off and catch a movie.

Oh how we want to be everything we are not! If our hair is straight, we want curly. If we are short (petite is so cute in my opinion) we want to be tall. The list goes on in regard to our physical appearance, but the tricky thing is, we are never satisfied with just exactly who God made us to be. Somehow we think that life would be so much easier if we could just respond this way or that way to a situation - instead of how we do respond! Our very nature - our personality - our temperment seems to betray us. It makes life difficult!

It's sounding a little like that whole Romans thing where Paul describes how he can't do the things he knows he should and is always doing the very thing he wishes he wouldn't. We will always battle the flesh.

I don't have any profound answers for myself or anyone out there that is relating to this post, but I do know that I'm OK. (And not just because I was forced to read "I'm OK, You're OK" my sophomore year) Deep down, I have always known that God loves me - the "me" that I am right now - not the one I hope to be or I'm working toward being, but the "me" that is me RIGHT NOW. Warts, flaws, stretch marks, smart comments, indifference, lack of discipline, contempt, self-righteousness, etc, etc, etc. NOTHING can separate us from the love of God.

Me and My Shadow

2008-03-11T20:25:00.000-07:00

Daniel is 18 Months old. Here are the latest stats.

Height: 33 inches - 76th percentile

Weight: 25 pounds 13 ounces - 52nd percentile

December 2007

2008-02-26T23:19:00.001-08:00

November 2007

2008-02-26T22:01:00.001-08:00

Hugs and Smiles

2008-01-08T17:27:00.000-08:00

All Day Long! Daniel has been free and generous with hugs and smiles today. What a blessing. It's so easy to remember and share about the trials of motherhood. Today - I share with you that my day was filled with hugs and smiles.

Catching Up

2008-01-08T08:38:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since my last post and so much has happened!

December was spent preparing for Christmas. Jim's brother Rodney and his wife Kenwa came from Sacramento with four of their five children and sister Julienne came as well. She has three grown kids so we missed having them this year.

Before all the family arrived, my nephew in Bend, Nick and his wife Kate welcomed their first baby into this world on Dec. 22. His name is Cooper and he is perfect. My Mom became a Great Grandmother for the second time and my sister became a Grandma for the first time! I never realized just how emotional that would be for me. Such joy!

We spent Sunday before Christmas with family at church and then had a fabulous dinner with Mom and Dad in Keizer.

Monday was nice to just finish preparations around the house while some of the CA family went shopping - finishing last minute purchases with no sales tax was a huge novelty for them! We had enchiladas and the adults stayed up late sipping red wine. Now some of you are thinking - drinking??? The wine had our name! Yes, there is wine available at Costco with the name Giordano. We had to try it! It was good (I guess, I'm no expert but I liked it just fine.)

Christmas day, we woke up around 8am and snacked on quiche and scones and coffee while all of us just dug into the gifts. Rod's kids finished their family Christmas before arriving so the "zing" was a little worn off for them. Everyone enjoyed watching Daniel begin to understand gifts and opening gifts and getting new toys! My Mom was there - coming over from West Salem and she just loved watching Daniel.

His big gift was a keyboard. Yes - a keyboard. Jim was adament about that. He wants Daniel to explore instruments and would LOVE for him to end up being musical. It has been a blast watching him play and dance. He loves it.

We had a nice dinner with all the family that afternoon. Jim's parents came over from Keizer, my Mom, and all the rest - 13 in all. Very nice.

Jim's brother and sister stayed a few days after Christmas and we enjoyed so much just hanging out and talking till late at night and just being with family that we don't get to see all the time.

Honestly, it was nice to be just the three of us again once the house was empty. We enjoyed a very quite New Year's Eve. I think Jim woke me to give me the annual kiss.

Jim, Daniel, my Mom and I raced over to Bend last weekend to see Cooper. Well worth the trip over the snowy pass. He is absolutely perfect. Sweetness in an almost 8 pound package. Dressed to perfection. My Mom was thrilled. My sister is over the moon - not to mention Nick and Kate (they have struggled to build their family in their young married life so Cooper is long awaited.)

This coming weekend - I have a WONDERFUL surprise planned. It's for my brother in CA. His name is Tracy and he has had a few troubled years (well, lots of trouble years) and recently has made a decision to follow Christ. He is very determined and will be baptized this Sunday at the church that Jim and I met married. My sister in Hollister knows we're coming but Tracy does not. Daniel and I will fly down (so pray for us) and stay just a few days. It's gonna be a blast to surprise him. God has been so faithful with my family. Another story for another time.

I think that's enough catching up. I'll try not to wait too long for the next time. Hope all my blogging friends feel blessed and rested as we head into a new year.

Can I tempt you with a new...

2007-12-07T14:50:00.000-08:00

DESK!?!
This modern style fruit wood and iron desk has served its term at our place and is looking for a new home. There is a pull out keyboard shelf (like my Vanna White?) and it rolls.
47.25 inches wide
23.5 inches deep
29.5 inches high

$40

Four Windsor-Back Oak Chairs

Paid $50 each (back in the day)
Asking only $15 per chair or $50 for all four. (I'm throwing in the ivory pads)

Are you looking for a cottage styled couch with a fold-out bed. I've got this camel-back, roll armed charmer that is in dire need of recovering (hence the slip cover). The pattern is a blue and white light weight cotton but it REALLY needs to be recovered. If you like the look "as is" I'll sell the slip cover with! The cover is a Shabby Chic from Target (and worth more than the couch if you want to know the truth.) The cover is perfect for opening up just enough to let the bed out without having to dismantle the whole thing.

$75 for the whole thing
$35 for the couch alone if you're interested. (I'm not selling the slip cover alone - sorry)

Maybe its a rug you need!?!
How about this lovely red/gold/green floral? It's 8x10 feet so a big room-sized rug. The cleanings over the years have made the backing slightly smaller than the rug so once its laid out, it can take a while to get the wrinkles out (just being honest). And to keep with the full disclosure thing - see the photo with the one flaw. It is pretty insignificant (I guess thats subjective though).
Asking $100

OK - this is a funny one - fake ficus trees.
Two taller ones that are just under 6 feet and one 4 footer.

$9 each for the tall ones
$7 for the shorter one
$20 for all three!

Thats it (for now). I want to thank you - all my blogger friends for helping me with my decision about "stuff." I think it only fair that you should have the first chance for some of these "treasures."

My New Favorite

2007-12-06T21:54:00.000-08:00

Homework

2007-11-14T16:07:00.000-08:00

What is your Motto?
To know God and to make Him known.

What superhuman power would you most want to have?
Reshape my body - you know, get taller and thinner.

What makes you laugh?
My husband - he really is funny, I just tease him about his puns being stupid.

Cats or dogs?
Dogs most definitely.

Would you rather be a little smarter or sexier?
Sexier - I am plenty smart but seriously lacking in the other.

What's the one thing you'll never understand?
Stealing - it's not yours - don't take it!!!!!

My life would be simpler if?
I wasn't so lazy sometimes.

The big decision I'm currently wrestling with is...
Garage sale and Craig's List - OR - give it away (it's gotta go though)

Stealing Peace

2007-11-08T05:10:00.000-08:00

It’s 4:00am and I’ve been awake for a little over an hour now trying to “rest” and finding none. This is when my mind turns on and I begin to think. And think, and think and think. Sometimes I think about the silly things I said yesterday that I wish I could take back. Sometimes the tasks that I, again, left undone and really wish I could just complete. But mostly, I think about God, me, my life, my heart, my hopes, my past, my present, my future – basically, what is this life of mine all about.

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about peace. I desire to have peace in my life. Yes, that means “peace and quiet” and it also means peace – lack of chaos. But, for me I want more. I want peace that brings that sense or feeling or understanding that “all is well.”

I was talking to my friend Lara the other day about this and I just can’t seem to let it go. I have been trying to “steal peace” in my life. Steal it. Grab it. Rip it out of my day. It must be something really important to me if I’m willing to go to such great lengths to get it but unfortunately, I don’t find it much.

I can find true peace and rest in my life with some very simple things. A great, long, hot shower is one. I have gone into the shower covered in the grime of life and let that water wash it all away. I have entered the stall twisted and crooked in my body and spirit and come out a new person. A good long shower can be so very healing to me.

I have come from a good movie feeling so alive and so sure of myself, I could conquer the world. I will watch an entire movie, just to get to that one crucial line that stirs my heart. Chariots of Fire is one of those for me. Just to hear Eric Liddel turn to his sister and say, “I feel His pleasure when I run.” Or in Last of the Mohicans when Daniel Day-Lewis says to Madeleine Stowe, “No matter how long it takes, no matter how far, I will find you.”

I’ve even found a little slice of pure contentment at the mall. Finding the perfect gift for a dear friend or your sister – finding that perfect pair of jeans that gives the illusion of a slimmer backside – or a new kitchen gadget that will save you tons of time.

Interesting thing about all this – IT DOESN’T ALWAYS WORK!!!!

I’ve tried the shower – nothing; the movie – nothing; the mall – NOTHING!!! What’s going on. I’ll try a cup of tea – that should do it. OK – I’ll do some gardening, take a walk, play on the floor with Daniel – shoot, I’ll even try smiling and throwing my arms over my head. Nothing.

Still troubled. Still restless. Still unsure. Still confused. Still sad. Still uneasy.

Obvious – how has this been eluding me – PRAY. What do I pray? OK – I’ll pray for “such” and “so” and then him, and then her, and back to “such,” and again to “so.” Oh no, what am I actually saying and praying? I don’t know. Can God make any sense out of this jumble of words and thoughts and ideas racing through my head??? Even my prayer time turns into a slide show on warp speed. I’m more wound up now than ever.

Oh God HELP! I need some peace in my life. I need to feel that You are near. I need Your presence. Where is that quiet place?

I am thinking of a song that is sort of old and a little corny but oh so precious to me…

I will enter His gates with thanksgiving in my heart
I will enter His courts with praise
I will say this is the day that the Lord has made
I will rejoice for He has made me glad
He has made me glad
Oh, He has made me glad
I will rejoice for He has made me glad

I think I’ll sing that – maybe a few times. I think I’ll let the truth of it soak into my soul. I want to approach Him (enter His gates) with thanksgiving. I’ll thank Him for my life – the very breath I breathe. Thank you for the roof over my head, the warm water for my shower, my sweet husband, my precious baby boy, my closet full of clothes, a kitchen full of food, great friends, precious memories, happy birthdays, health, legs that work, anything – everything. You are so good God.

Praise is next. God you are AWESOME. You are good. Faithful. Just. Righteous. Holy. Loving. Gracious. Merciful. Steadfast. Enduring. Hopeful. Mighty. Wonderful. The lover of my soul!

That alone can floor me. The God of the universe – creator of heaven and earth – loves my soul. He loves my mind, my personality, my soul! Oh such peace and contentment. I’m starting to feel it now. He loves me. I love Him. I want to rejoice.

I need to say it out loud. “This is the day that the Lord has made – I will rejoice and be glad in it.” I’m thinking of another corny song…

It’s a happy day, and I thank God for the weather
It’s a happy day, and I’m living it for my Lord
It’s a happy day, and things are sure to get better
Living each day by the promises of God’s word

I sing that sometimes to Daniel. I want him to know that whatever the day looks like – stormy, sunny, foggy, cloudy, cool, warm – no matter – it’s a “happy day” and God is to be thanked. I need to say these things out loud. I know – corny. I’ll do anything – even really corny stuff, to find some true peace in my life.

I still think God uses the movies, the mall and the shower (and lot’s of other great things) in my life to bring some peace to me but mostly, He just wants to be present in my life. He wants to stand near to me. Walk beside me. Sometimes He speaks sweet truths and simple solutions but mostly, He just walks near me. I long for that in my life. I want it more than anything else. To be forever in His presence. I will draw near to Him and He draws near to me.

John 14:27 says…
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Another good one is Isaiah 26:3…
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.

Lord, help me to have a mind that is steadfast and a trust in You that is deep and abiding. Help me to stop “stealing peace” and finding things that are temporal and that fill me with a false sense of contentment. Help me to daily “enter His gates” and give me a grateful heart. Help me to speak and say out loud only things that are True. Walk with me and let me say, “it is well with my soul.”

My Little Monkey

2007-11-06T13:09:00.001-08:00

Haircut - The Journey

2007-10-19T19:45:00.001-07:00

Baby to Boy

2007-10-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

Daniel's first haircut - October 18, 2007

Eight Random Things

2007-10-16T22:45:00.000-07:00

1.) I wish I could sing. No, really sing.

2.) I have a brother named Tracy.

3.) I was born on my brother Trent's sixth birthday - Aug. 7.

4.) I peed on the street once and a car drove up with its brights on me! (not my finest moment)

5.) Sharon Bryson is the ONLY person who ever beat me in the reflex game that gives the loser an electric shock. I'm still a little bitter - I HATE to lose.

6.) My wedding was so beautiful - I still cry when I watch the video. Jim is the love of my life.

7.) My father was shorter than my mother (and me too for that matter).

8.) I sat on the couch reviewing a new exercise video once while munching on a huge bag of MnMs. It was a really good workout.

Insomnia

2007-10-16T13:29:00.000-07:00

I can't sleep through the night (Daniel sleeps through just fine). I wake up and can not go back to sleep. HELP!!!! Any ideas?

My Mom, who always has an answer for these things and mostly a "doom and gloom" answer I might add, says I am heading into menopause. I need to go to the doctor and ask about hormones. I'm not ready to get old! Wait! No! Please!

I was watching an info-mercial about B12 (yes, in the middle of the night when I couldn't sleep) and was very intrigued. Does anyone know anything about this B12 you order that dissolves under your tongue so that it goes directly into your bloodstream producing the greatest effect? It's supposed to provide you with more energy and a better night's rest.

I'm desparate. I need a full 7 hours. Eight would be nice but I'll take 7.

Season of Change

2007-09-27T23:44:00.000-07:00

I love the fall season. The changes that come - the leaves turn color, the air becomes crisp, the days get shorter, new classes start, new episodes come on TV, I usually move furniture or change something in the house, and I really feel like Christmas is coming soon! Usually, I love these changes and look forward to them.

This year is a bit different for me - for us. Jim and I have been discussing this idea for a few years now. We haven't been terribly unhappy or disappointed really - just feeling a need for a change. A change that we have never made accept when moving from one town to another. We have had restless hearts and sought the Lord for His guidance. We have longed for a ministry that we both could jump into with our whole hearts. We have longed for deeper walks with God and deeper friendships. We just didn't think God would lead us away from our current circumstances to find these things.

But He has - so we will follow. We are seeking out a new church in which to fellowship and hopefully minister in some way. It has been one of the most difficult changes in my life. I have dug my heels in and fought it all the way and yet I have a strong sense that we are doing the right thing. It's extremely uncomfortable -but right. I will cherish the years at Court Street but look forward to what God is doing. Daniel came home to us at Court Street and I will never forget the love of the body of Christ that we experienced!

Pray for us. Pray for perspective - it is not all about us, but God. Pray He'll guide us to just the right place. Pray for us to grow through this and hold tight to Jesus.

Daniel's First Birthday

2007-09-12T10:43:00.001-07:00

One year ago today...

2007-09-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

I was with friends in Duvall, WA having a wonderful visit. It was bittersweet in that Marae was recuperating from surgery, I was mourning the loss of my father, and we were reeling from the most recent set backs in our adoption process. All in all, it was a fabulous time with old friends who have been dear to us for over 20 years now. We ate together, laughed alot and the girls even got a little shopping in! While in an antique store, we spotted the sweetest baby book with beautiful illustrations. I picked it up - and again - hoped that one day, I would need one just like it. We also spied an adorable hand-knit baby outfit that possessed that timeless quality, being specially made by loving hands for a hoped-for baby. I thought, if I ever get a baby of my own, I would love to dress him in something from the past, so to remember that babies are special today, yesterday, and always.

While we were sleeping, little did I know, in Newport, Oregon, the most special person was coming into this world and would be joining our family!

The story of how God brought Daniel to us is a miracle. Not to sound cliche, but ALL babies are mircles - each and every one. Labor can be long but the reward is immeasurable.

It's been a year so we had to CELEBRATE!!!!

We had a farm theme for his party and lots of fun games -

"Pin the Tail on the Donkey" - "Egg Toss" - and a fun ruuning relay game of my own invention called "Pen the Pig!"

The party was a group production with many thanks and MUCH credit going to Jim (of course) along with my Mom, my sister Sue and her two "babies," Amber and Joey. 33 adults and 26 kids later, Jim asked, "We're not having a party like this for Daniel every year, are we?"

Daniel has been and will continue to be the greatet joy in our lives. Jim and I feel so blessed to have him. He shows his gratitude for a GREAT BIRTHDAY PARTY! It was a good day.

By the way, my friend Marae sent me that baby book and hand-knit outfit within a few days of bringing Daniel home. Who would have known the hoped-for-treasures were found the very day that Daniel was born.

OK, OK, getting rid of the spider!

2007-08-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

I have been getting a lot of comments on how alarming the spider is so this post is for the sole purpose of getting that spider off your screens.

Kim said to make it a REALLY LONG post so to be sure the spider moves way down the screen.

I always have a cute picture of Daniel to share and I'd much rather look at him any time!

Sorry if I scared anyone. (Gabby - I'm extra sorry I really, really scared you!)

EEEEEK!!!

2007-08-23T20:46:00.001-07:00

Jim found this on the wall in our bedroom last Saturday night. He didn't call me in to look at it. He only showed me the photos once it was good and DEAD! I am SOOOO AFRAID of SPIDERS!! I slept in the family room at the opposite end of the house for fear he'd brought his friends with him!

So You Think You Can Dance?

2007-08-16T22:34:00.000-07:00

I realize that my favorite competitive show is not up there with "American Idol" but I absolutely LOVE "So You Think You Can Dance." I was really not seeing a front-runner in the beginning but once the final four was determined, I was for Sabra. Guess what? Sabra WON!!!!

I love Dance! I am so facinated by movement in general. I love to watch how people walk, gesture, run, play sports, and yes - dance. I think God wired me that way.

I have always been extremely comfortable in my own skin once I'm allowed to move. It makes no sense, I know, because of my insecurities about my weight and such, but I really feel much better about myself when I can move. Sometimes that takes the form of dance but it could just be getting out on the softball field or gesturing toward a sign.

I recently went with a girlfriend to see "Hairspray" and she was seeing it for the second time. She raved about it! She explained that it wasn't really her style to see movies over and over but she planned on watching "Hairspray" often, it was that good to her. She suddenly realized that in her zeal, she had never asked my thoughts on "Hairspray." She turned to me and asked, "Are you into this? I mean, do you really want to see this movie? Is this your kind of thing?"

My response - "What do you think!? It's about an overweight girl that dances more like her black peers and proves to the greater Baltimore area that a fat girl can dance!? Oh yes, I'm into this!"

I'm not certain you all really are wanting to ask, but just in case - YES, I think I can dance!

Rotten Fruit

2007-08-03T23:26:00.000-07:00

The fruits of the Spirit have been getting a little rotten in my life lately. Not a pretty sight!
Galatians 5:22 says: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."
I have been doing a lot of reading, praying and quite frankly, crying these past few weeks. But God has met me there. He has shown me much and continues to open up some those dark areas of my heart that need His light.
I have needed to forgive and to ask for forgiveness. The process is well underway but will be just that, a process.
Christ died for the sins of the world - the sins of my offenders as well as my offenses. If I do not let the blood of Christ cover my sin, I deny His work and my faith is false - so, in faith, I am allowing God to forgive me. This is not always been easy for me but He is "renewing my mind" and giving me a new way to think. Pray for me if you will. I need it.
Anxious to be growing some new fruit!

4th of July

2007-07-08T21:32:00.001-07:00

This is Daniel just hanging out on the front lawn while Jim did yard work. Nothing exciting about the day except for being a perfect expression of many dreams and hopes I had for many years. I always imagined a scene just like this - Jim working, me-playing with a baby on the lawn, Bailey lying in the shade, the sun shining and all of us just being a family. Thank you Lord for making another dream come true.

Daniel's Dedication on Father's Day

2007-06-30T15:30:00.001-07:00

Alphabet Survey

2007-06-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

Alphabet survey (got this from Chronicles of Momia - Valerie)

A is for age: 43 (will be 44 this August)
B is for beer of choice: I like it OK, don't have a favorite - just not dark.
C is for what you can't wait for right now: Cousins - Brad and Debbie and their two kids - Bryson and Abby - are coming for a visit!!! (Catch that - their kids names are Bryson and Abby)
D is for your dog's name: Bailey (after George Bailey in a It's a Wonderful Life because he came to us at Christmas time)
E is for essential item you use everyday: Deodorant (it does say essential)
F is for favorite TV show at the moment: So You Think You Can Dance!!!!
G is for favorite game: Pictionary - haven't played for years - need to get some girls together and play.
H is for Home town: San Jose, CA
I is for instruments you play: My feet? I can tap dance.
J is for favorite juice: Don't drink much juice but love lemonade
K is for whose butt you'd like to kick: I'm going to copy Valerie. I'd like to kick my own as well and have much more thigh than she! You can see by my future answers that I'm not as dedicated at Valerie to reach that goal.
L is for last food you ate: Thin Mint Ice Cream
M is for marriage: Married to my best friend in the world - Jim. Love him and am so glad he is the father God chose for Daniel.
N is for your name: Angela (Angie) Jane Giordano (Hall was my maiden name)
O is for overnight hospital stays: Tonsils out at six, endometriosis removed in 1999
P is for people you can't live without: Jim
Q is for quote: MAN IN BLACK: "Look are you just fiddling around with me or what?"
FEZZIK: "I just want you to feel you're doing well. I hate for people to die embarrassed."
R is for Biggest Regret: Not going to college when I had the chance - right out of high school. I ended up getting my BS at 33 years old. Much harder to do that way!
S is for status: "I used to be..." I find myself saying that alot just before describing my current lower, lesser, or overall weaker status. Not a good thing - just being honest.
T is for time you woke up today: 6 ish
U is for underwear you have on now: cute ones! It's a thing for me. (white cotton tonga with lavendar, aqua and turquoise stars)
V is for vegetable you love: Tomatoes. Especially really good cherry ones - they taste like candy.
W is for worst habit: Over eating. (gluttony - I think that's a sin not just a habit)
X is for x-rays you've had: Teeth for sure (once a year - I think) ankle (very small fracture) lungs and throat (before my tonsils were removed) MRI of brain twice (is that an X-ray?)
Y is for yummy food you ate today: Thin Mint Ice Cream
Z is for the zodiac sign: Leo, but I too couldn't care less.

A Few Pics of Daniel

2007-06-06T17:12:00.001-07:00

To Be Known

2007-06-02T23:06:00.000-07:00

I think one of the strongest needs any person has is to be known. We all want to feel as if someone knows us and still loves us. Being the youngest of 7 children, I had to find a way to "be known" in all that chaos. I chose talking.
Some of you are currently nodding your heads in agreement - stop that! If I didn't get someone's attention, I could have been missed! I have always talked alot and truthfully, would like to talk less! If Jim reads this, which he does, he might disagree, but I talk a lot less than I used to!
I think I forget sometimes that my life now is not like my life as a child. I don't have to fight for attention; and besides, I am known and loved!
I am a daughter of God! The creator of the universe knows my name! He knew me before I was even formed in my mother's womb and had me in mind when making a way for salvation. To comprehend this is just too much for me! He knows the number of hairs on my head and longs to spend time with me. He saw me everytime I cried. He rejoices with me when I have little victories in my life. What did I ever do to deserve such devotion?!
Don't ever forget - He knows your name. He sees each tear that falls and hears you when you call!

Party for Molly!

2007-06-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

Let’s say so long to our “bosom friend” ~Molly Chupik~

If Molly is a kindred spirit, then you are invited to an evening of food, fellowship and “Anne of Green Gables.”

Friday, June 8
Open House 5pm – 9pm
Main dish and drinks provided.
Bring a salad, dessert, or side dish to share.

At Angie Giordano’s - Call me or email me if you need more information.

Embarassing Moment

2007-05-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

From 1993 - 1998, Jim and I lived in Eastern Washington where we both attended Washington State University. Jim was working on his Masters and PhD while I finished up a BS degree. I had an excellent job on campus working for the WSU Foundation - the Development Office - the Fundraising arm of the University. The office was located on the fourth floor of the Administration building where the University President was as well. We were often teased about "working on the fourth floor" as if we were a part of some special club working with the big wigs.

The President of the Foundation was a key person on campus as well. She had a lot of contacts with very influential and rich people all over the US but mainly in the Northwest. Her name was Connie and she was an extremely nice person. It was common when making her travel arrangements for me to set up appointments with people like Paul Allen or the President of Costco where she would show up to ask for millions of dollars. My third day in the office, I opened the mail to find a 3 million dollar check from Boeing. She focused on raising money while the office staff focussed on the details of her travel. Many times, I would drive out to the little airport there in the middle of some wheat fields to pick her up and bring her back to the office.

One summer afternoon, my supervisor, Sharon, asked me if I was available to pick up Connie and I said I would if I could but had not driven my car in that day. Sharon assured me that was no problem; she would lend me her car. She then started to give me tons of details about the make, the model, the color, the location in the parking lot, etc... I admit, I was half listening and really thought I would find the car very easily. Keep in mind, I am one of those people that does not notice cars. I could never tell you who drove what kind of car or even the color. I know there are "cars" "trucks" "SUVs" and "motorcycles." I just don't pay much attention beyond that.

I headed out to row two of the parking lot and found nothing that looked like Sharon's car. I looked down at the keys in my hand and it said "Toyota." I went up and down the second row and found the only Toyota there. It was a worn, red, wagon with lots of fishing gear in the back. Now Sharon's husband could have easily put that fishing gear back there, but he was a neat freak and this stuff was sort of tossed in the back. I was very unsure about this car.

My thought was, try the key! If the key fits, surely I'm in the right place. It fit - I got in.

As I sat there, I became more and more uncomfortable with the vehicle, thinking that there was no way Sharon's husband Philip would allow that mess or smell to be in his vehicle. I had a second key for the ignition.

My thought was, if it starts, surely I'm in the right car. I turned the key, it started and I was convinced.

I pulled out of the lot and headed off of campus out a back road to the airport. The further I got down the road, the more uncertain I became. I just had this awful feeling I was not in Sharon's car. I pulled into the airport right as the plane should have been landing but it was a few minutes behind schedule. I called Sharon on the payphone (no such thing as cell phones yet) and she just screamed with laughter as I described the red Toyota wagon. She drove a light grey Chevy Nova!!!!

I WAS IN THE WRONG CAR!!!! I HAD STOLEN SOMEONES CAR!!! I was 8 miles from campus and 15 minutes into my crime and had to wait for Connie.

We drove back, sitting in almost silence as I had to tell her what I had done. She was very calm but asked me to please stop speeding. We pulled into the lot - and OF COURSE - the space I vacated was no longer available. I had to park the car in a different row facing the opposite direction. Now I may not notice cars but I am very spacially aware. If I had parked my car in the morning in row two facing one building and came out that night with the car in row three facing the opposite direction - I WOULD NOTICE!

I put a very brief note on the car and asked the owner to please call me because I had some information about their vehicle.

Those were the longest two days of my life! The teasing in the office was relentless. Well deserved I might add! Who takes the wrong car!?! Everytime my phone rang at my desk, all my co-workers were like little ground hogs, popping up their heads above the cubicle walls, peeking over and craning their necks to listen in on my phone conversation. The call never came.

Then it happened. One of my co-workers - Sue - who was notorious for her elaborate practical jokes came up to me with a letter. She started in with a very serious tone about a request for a donation receipt. You see - it was her husband's car that I stole! The letter was very cleverly written to Connie's attention asking for donation credit for the use of their vehicle.

Sue worked just two office doors down from Sharon. We are talking Pullman, Washington here! A very small university town. One person drove a Chevy Nova - the other a Toyota wagon. BOTH cars had the same EXACT KEYS and I somehow discovered this all through a fluke accident. Do you realize how many stars in the sky would have to be lined up just perfectly for this type of thing to happen!?! Needless to say, I was embarassed.

Kisses for Everyone!

2007-05-22T21:28:00.001-07:00

Every Day is Mothers Day

2007-05-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

As my first Mothers Day is coming to an end, I'm typing this post with one hand while feeding Daniel with the other. He is on my lap drinking milk and cooing. He's also kicking the computer closet door and trying to grab everything on the table top.

I'm a Mom.

Daniel gave me the best gift ever this year! Just on Saturday, he started saying "Mama" for the first time. Jim and I have been having a blast getting him to repeat it over and over. He begins by opening and closing his mouth like a fish - no sound - just the mouth - THEN, he puts his voice behind it and it starts to come... "Ma ma mum mama mum" It's a wonder! He's just brilliant!

I didn't wake up with my annual anxiety and nausea today - what a change that was. For the first time, I began Mothers Day with joy and expectation. But I couldn't help but remember my sorrow from years past. They taught me a lot about myself but also about the hurts that others endure on Mothers Day.

I pray for those today who have lost their Mother or lost a child. I pray for those that long to be a Mom and somehow its just not happening yet. I pray for those that are out of relationship with their Mom and this day amplifies that rift. I pray specifically for Daniel's birthmother and all those birthmothers that first, choose life for their child, and then place them with a family to love and care for them because they are not able.

All that God has poured into us and how we are marked by His very image brings hope, peace and joy to all of us. Pray that Gods image in your life shines today and always.

P.S. Thank you God for making one of my dreams come true. My cup runneth over.

Rub-a-Dub-Dub

2007-05-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

Where is March?

2007-05-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

March!? Where is it? Did it already pass? I never saw it! How could that be.

Time just keeps "marching" on (I am married to the greatest punster that ever lived so I had to throw that one in) and I can not keep up. My mother used to tell me how fast time will go by once I am older. I never believed. In my high school years, I started to notice it. Summers were just never long enough. Then in my 20's, they got ever shorter - I would blink and it was time for school again. When I entered the workforce, I lived for Fridays - payday and the weekend! Thursdays went by slowly but everything else was warp-speed. Time has sped up at a consistant rate every year of my life.

Then I became a parent - I'm so confused. What day is it? Is it Tuesday? The 5th? No - Thursday the 3rd - yeah, thats it. Thursday the 3rd - of May, yes May - I do know we are in May!

My whole reference for time and schedule has been stripped away. I went to an office of some sort every day from 8am to 5pm for about 20 years (yes I'm serious, 20 years). You stare at a computer all day long jumping in and out of your calendar system, looking at the date constantly. Of course you know what day it is - you stare at it all day long. You surely know the time because every phone message you write has the date and time filled in. You look at your watch or a clock about 25 times a day. NOW - I don't know anything. I have no point of reference. I just do what needs to be done. Do you know, I am having trouble remembering my daily medications (thyroid - not prosac as some of you might think - although that would be fine if it was) because I get up at a different time almost every day and do something different each morning. It just depends on the needs.

For example, today, I woke up around 5am because my husband who said he was cold the previous night put an extra blanket on last night. We sleep with a down comforter and he added another. Yes, another DOWN COMFORTER. Well, by about 4:30 or 5am, he was too warm and I woke up to a HUGE wad a blankets all stacked up between us. I couldn't move too well and my back felt 10 degrees warmer than my front. Sweating was the next step and I wanted out of the pile of blankets before that started. Of course, then I had to pee. It was all over then. I was awake and loading the washer! (I need some undees!)

Now - I'm learning about this blog thing. Sharon helped me with adding music! Yeah! I love it. I wanted to learn how to add "friends" and started that the other day. I just added a few and thought, some of my friends are going to visit and not see a link to their blog and be sad. I think I got everyone this morning! I had trouble with one - I don't have permission. So, if you don't see your link on my blog, let me know but be sure I'm invited. I want to learn how to have my picture post with my comments - like Sharon and Becca!

I am becoming more accustomed to this new lifestyle and look forward to the day I don't have the go in to the office at all (for those who don't know, I have still been working part-time and bringing Daniel into the offic with me). I go in 3 to 5 days a week depending upon the needs. It's been such a blessing and my employers are jewels but it's time to take the plunge - the full-body plunge into my new job - Stay-at-home-Mom! It's a job I have always wanted and I am so glad to have it!

Back to the topic! (that's another thing by the way I am struggling with, staying on task) Time. Who can fully understand it and/or master it? Not me. I do want to continue to grow in the area of using it wisely. I loved hearing about Leslie's new schedule and her daily focus. I have a great appreciation for good plans but am in awe of those who actually follow their plans. Pray for me to come up with a plan that I can and will follow. I need help getting a little bit of a handle on my days and try to stick to a schedule.

Any and all ideas are much appreciated.

I had to throw in these pictures to prove my point - time is marching on!

Loving Parenthood

2007-04-22T16:55:00.000-07:00

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine!"

Happy Birthday Papa

2007-04-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

Today is my father's birthday - our first without him. I really didn't know how I'd feel about today and maybe was avoiding things a bit, but this morning, I am grateful. I'm grateful for the years I did have him in my life and this day brings a smile to my face. My Dad never liked getting older and many times would say he was turning "19" again. Most people hold out at 29, but my Dad never wanted to be older than 19! He was young at heart his whole life!

Happy Birthday Papa! I love you.

Jumperoo Jive

2007-03-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

Daniel's new favorite toy!

Greased Lightning

2007-03-07T21:54:00.000-08:00

I'm systomatic - I'm hydromatic - I'm Greased Lightning!!!!

I finally have high speed internet at home. I can actually post pictures to my blog from home (rather than from the office)! I am so excited. I don't know what to do first.

Here's Daniel in his brand new high chair. We planned to get some food this week and start him off on the "good stuff." Unfortunately, he got a pretty bad cold and has been caughing and very congested all week long. We put off the cereal until he's over it. For now, he just sits in the high chair and plays! (and looks adorable too)

Notes from Friends

2007-02-23T22:28:00.000-08:00

I got a note from a friend today. No special reason - just a note to say, "Hey, I'm thinking of you." Don't you love friends like that!? I do!

It Finally Happened Today

2007-02-20T19:37:00.000-08:00

Someone asked me if Daniel was my Grandson. I wasn't that surprised. I've sort of been waiting for the question to be quite honest. The young gal felt kind of awkward and tried to cover her embarassment by telling me how cute Daniel is.

I guess there is a part of me that just accepts that I am an older mom, but there is still that sad part that wishes it could have happened long ago. BUT...

God is God and I am not. He has perfect wisdom and timing and grace!

I would rather have waited all these years and got to have Daniel than to have "given up" and spent my life without children. Jim feels very much the same way. He told me just the other day, "these are the happiest days of my life." We are LOVING our life and no comment about being the Grandma can squelch it!!!

Shameless Bragging

2007-02-15T20:46:00.000-08:00

My son, Daniel, he is basically a stud!

He is a back-sleeper, enjoys sleeping on his back and has never really taken to "tummy time." I feel a little responsible for his not liking "tummy time" because as his Mom, I should be more diligent about putting him on his tummy.

Everyone has been telling me that 5 or 6 months is the time baby's start crawling - BUT - if they haven't been on their tummy much, it may take longer.

Up until tonight, Daniel has shown no real aptitude for crawling - AND THEN - he scooched his little butt in the air and began pulling his feet under himself!!!! He tried to push up with his hands which resulted in a very quick roll over maneuver and when he found himself on his back, he let out a bit of a giggle. It was almost like he was saying, "Did you see that!?" We put him back on his tummy and went through the whole process again.

Did I mention that my back-sleeping, "I hate tummy-time" boy is 5 MONTHs OLD?

Bring it on ladies - tell me about your 5 month old full on crawler! You can even tell me about your cousin's, neighbor's sister's niece who crawled at 3.5 months. It won't and could never make me lose any pride in my 5 month old "almost crawler!"

Yeah Daniel!!!

A FEW FUN PICS

2007-02-15T14:20:00.000-08:00

What's going on with me?

2007-02-14T21:51:00.000-08:00

I am such a slow processor sometimes. I just finished reading everyone's posts about the Women's Retreat and how God really spoke. I can't figure out yet what He's saying to me. I know I had a good time. I know the Speaker's messages were filled with things I wanted to write down. I loved our times singing in worship. I felt the Spirit of God when we prayed.

I still don't know what He's saying to me! Pray for me!

Daniel did just fine while I was gone and Jim even better. Jim loves being a Dad and that is just one of the reasons that I love Jim. He and Daniel had a wonderful time of bonding. No one can make Daniel laugh like Jim does. It's such a blessing.

My eyes are drooping ...

Nap Time? Is it REALLY Important?

2007-02-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

Daniel will not take a nap in his crib! There - I've said it! I feel like I'm damaging him in some way by not having a morning and afternoon nap! Now - I got a book out and it said, 14 to 15 hours of sleep per day is the goal - that would mean 10, 11, or 12 hours at night and then naps throughout the day to make up the rest. The "book" said multiple cat-naps or two biggies were both acceptable. Am I freaking out over nothing? I'd be glad to hear from some friends how they got nap time implemented.

Bibs - I got a million at my shower and couldn't figure out why - NOW I KNOW!!!! He drools - and drools - and spits up and then drools some more! I love bibs!

My doggie is still very jealous of Daniel. He will "cut me off at the pass" as I approach Daniel. I will head towards him to pick him up and Bailey gets right between us. He's taken to sleeping in Daniel's room on one the chairs in there just to catch us and maybe get some attention. Walks are difficult right now because of the weather and darkness when Jim comes home. Pray for Bailey - he's still pretty sad.

Daniel's still growing - so fast! He is barely 5 months old and in 6 -12 month clothing. He has a few 6 mo. outfits that still fit but the 9 mo. ones are better. A few items are labeled "6-12" and he fits just fine in those. I just can't believe how fast he's been growing.

Baby shoes for the non-walker??? Any ideas.

All for now!

We had a cold

2007-02-02T12:24:00.000-08:00

We've had our first cold! Daniel had it first - then Mommy. We have survived although we are still finishing up with the congestion, etc... It's horrible to see your child sick - especially when you don't feel that well yourself.

Daniel is smiling and giggling ALL the time now. He smiles at everyone who greets him. It's so nice to see his personality coming out. (His will and determination too.) He is very happy boy and Jim and I enjoy him SOOOO MUCH! He smiles when we pick him up out of his crib in the morning and it's so fun to go over to get him and he's kicking and smiling as you lift him up.

All for now - he's fussing. I think he's hungry!

Will This Ever Get Old?

2007-01-17T22:29:00.000-08:00

I love Daniel! Daniel is my son - adopted just four months ago and I love him! (Have you seen that crazy scene in Raising Arizona where Holly Hunter's character is driving in the get away car with Nicholas Cage and she starts crying and freaking out about how much she already loves the baby they just kidnapped?) It's kinda like that but less criminal.

I was listening to the radio tonight and heard a song we sang in church on Sunday - the words are "Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord." I feel God's strength rising in me to be the Mom He wants me to be. On my own, I'm clueless and insecure, but He has given me strength to get up in the night, to stop my projects and go to Daniel, to carry him to the car (along with his diaper bag, my purse, and anything else that needs to come with), to do one more load of laundry AND put in a few hours at the office. Mostly, I feel His strength that enables me to believe that I can actully do this. I know on my own, I will fail, but with God's help, I can be a mother.

Somewhere in all this new "mothery" stuff, Jim is there! My wonderful, kind, loving, husband who is currently waiting for me to come to bed! He has been such a perfect father for Daniel and so encouraging to me. I couldn't have picked a better husband! I think he too is wondering if our over-the-top infatuation with Daniel will ever get old - we both think not.

What a privilege it is to be a parent! To think God, in all His wisdom, thought us worthy of the task. We are so grateful. What an awsome God we serve - He allowed us to wait so that strength would rise up in us!

Thank you Lord!

Those Shots are Smarts!

2007-01-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

Jim and I took Daniel to his four month "well baby" check up today - what an experience!

The shots are just about the most tortuous thing in the world. Jim (yes - it's Jim that must do this part) helps to hold him down while the nurse sticks a humongous needle in his leg - THREE times!!!! He cried so hard that some of his tears came down Jim's and my face! I don't know how that happens.

He is a trooper though and has been feeling pretty good today. All is well.

He is now 16 lbs. and 2.5 oz. He is 25.5 inches long and in the 75th percentile. A little bit of a big boy for his age but not too big. We think he's just right!

I can not believe how fast he's growing and I want to treasure EVERY SINGLE MINUTE. He is currently napping right next to me as I catch up some things at the office. It makes my day just being able to hang out with him.

My Very First Entry

2007-01-08T17:03:00.001-08:00

I have been reading my friends blogs and have enjoyed it so much, I think I caught the bug!

I don't know where this will take me, but I hope to make it a habit. My husband and I are brand new parents after a very long wait so we have lots to talk about when it comes to our son and this new adventure!

I'll keep this post short but will try and write often. I hope my family and friends will be able to see and read about what's happening in our lives and it will bring us closer together.

Daniel came to us in September (rather unexpectedly) and we couldn't be more pleased. We are enjoying every part of parenthood (so far) and look forward to the years of blessings and trials that make up parenthood.

Here's a picture of our boy! All for now.