Last Trip (for awhile)

We made our last trip of my pregnancy this past week. I am to the point already (at 18 weeks) where riding in the van for extended periods of time is very uncomfortable. Some of our good friends from residency were in Tulsa because of a death in their family. We wanted to be sure to see them while they were in town because it has been a year since we saw them last, and we won't see them for another year and a half or so. They are missionaries in Kenya, and it was GREAT to see them and their children. It is so surreal sometimes to think about them being overseas; someday, I will feel that way about us being overseas!

We were able to visit with a lot of people, but there were still so many that we didn't get to see! It's so hard to not be able to see EVERYONE. But, I trust we saw those that we needed to see this trip. We were so blessed by our hostess, Jan, and by the many families who cooked for us. We are so thankful for the time people made in their schedules for us.

The kids got to swim several times and had a blast. They love going to Tulsa. They always hate to leave. :)

Now that we're back home, we are prepared to settle in and stay put. The babies are coming in Dec/Jan, and I have a feeling it will be months before we're brave enough to attempt a road trip with 5 children (2 of them babies!). So, here's to being a homebody and being content!

So, if you miss us, come visit! :)

I have an ultrasound today as well as my doctor's appt. I am looking forward to seeing the boys (I will be surprised if Baby A is a girl. Very surprised.) I will certainly let you know if it changes!

I must move on with my day. I have too much to do to sit here any longer!

Updates on Everything

Well, I had a bit of a greasy hair weekend, and I didn't have cornstarch. So, I put face powder in my hair and combed it through. It helped! I bought some cornstarch on Saturday.

Also, I noticed when I got sweaty after running, my hair looked better. I guess the saltiness cut the grease? I have no idea. Gross, eh? :) I am washing every other day and only doing the ACV (apple cider vinegar) rinse every other wash. Oh, and Dave says my hair doesn't smell bad.

Today, my hair looks a lot better. It kind of feels sticky like when we moved to Tulsa and had hard water. So, I know it is about to turn a corner. It doesn't look greasy or sticky today, it just feels sticky. It has a lot of body. :) My hair is short, though, so it sticks up a lot when I wake up in the morning. I will have to wet it to get it to look more normal. I am going to press on with this crazy venture!

This is my last week of running in preparation for the 5K race on SATURDAY!!!

I am excited, nervous, and ready to be finished with this goal! I can't believe it is almost here. Here is my running schedule this week (with modified recommendations from my friend, Lee):

Monday--Run 22 minutes

Tuesday--Rest

Wednesday--Run 25 minutes

Thursday--Run 10 minutes

Friday--Rest

Saturday--Run 3.1 miles!!!

Last night (Sunday), I ran 2.47 miles in 25 minutes. It was insane, but I did it, and I kept my pace around 10 minutes/mile. It was great. It's so hard when I am in the middle of it, but I just keep telling myself that I can do this. I am a runner because I am running! So pretty much, I just pep-talk myself the entire time. :)

It seems I have been in a mode of trying new things lately. I've made all these homemade cleaners. Here is my report:

Dishwasher Detergent (improved version over the first one I tried two years ago)--LOVE IT. No spots, no residue.

Furniture Polish--It works really well, but it does leave a little vinegar-y scent for a bit--not too long. Of course, I tried it in the van on the vinyl (whatever that stuff is on the dashboard), so it was in a small, not-too-airy space...should try it on our furniture! At least the smell isn't toxic.

Window Cleaner--I love this cleaner so much more than Windex. There is no ammonia--so no toxic fumes to breathe. I used Clorox Natural Dish Soap (Water Lily scent) as the dish soap for the recipe, and it smells very nice and works super well. It leaves no streaks and actually cleanses the glass/mirror. I also didn't have to scrub really hard.

I haven't made the laundry detergent yet (have all the supplies--waiting to run out of my Purex naturals soap). I also haven't made the deodorant yet. I just need to order the shea butter and cocoa butter online. And maybe some vegetable glycerin?

Our garden is beautiful. I'm so excited about it. I promise pictures...It's quite a feat for me to go out there, take pictures, upload them, re-upload them to the blog...you know. :)

Sam's cast is breaking through on his heel. Too much scooting, I guess. One more week until an xray that will hopefully show he can bear weight on it. He is so ready, and I am constantly having to remind him to GET OFF OF IT!!!

Dave and I have made plans to go to Kansas City for Memorial Weekend. We are super excited. We haven't had a nice getaway in a couple of years. My awesome brother and his wife will bring their kids and stay with ours. My parents may come help play with grandkids. It'll be nice to know they are with family.

I have planned out several restaurants to eat at (isn't that what vacation is all about?), we are going to hear the symphony play for a FREE show for Memorial Day, we will probably do some pottery stuff (our 8th anniversary is June 2, and the traditional gift is bronze/pottery). We will spend some time at the International House of Prayer (IHOP) in the prayer room and for a time of prophetic ministry. We are really looking forward to our long weekend together.

So, that's my update. You made it to the end. Congratulations!

Slowing Down

With all the madness and loveliness of my birthday, we managed to wear ourselves out. We traveled a lot, made messes in between our traveling, and now it is time to re-center and FOCUS.

My goal is to get back to normal as quickly as possible so that Thanksgiving can be relaxing. Yesterday, I had a long list of things to do. I didn't get to cross off many (just "shower" and "make grocery list and menu"). We did, however, manage to go to the store and get everything for the week and for Thanksgiving.

I love Thanksgiving food.

Today, Dave went back to work since his vacation is officially over. I love having him home, but if he is home, I don't get anything done. :) I'm glad we're all back where we belong. The house is slowly coming together. Our vacuum is dying. I saw smoke coming out of the bottom. It smelled funny.

I do not like having a canister vacuum. I miss having a bag that I can throw away 0r better yet--BURN (especially when we're having our yearly autumnal battle against Woodrow's fleas). I know that's not environmentally savvy, but it is one of those things that make my skin crawl. I would like your vacuum suggestions.

I have so many sewing and crafty projects in my mind and on my shelf. I need to get going. I keep hopping from project to project. I think my goal this year will be to finish THAT ADVENT CALENDAR I started two years ago. I made a mistake on it, and will essentially be starting from Step 2. Kind of hard to get motivated...but I'm also toying with the idea of inventing MY OWN advent calendar...if I do, perhaps there will be a tutorial to follow.

Do you guys do Advent Calendars? I love the one my friend, Cinthya, has--it tells the Christmas story or the significance of each symbol--all made of felt. I LOVE FELT.

So, here's to nesting and being at home!

I told Dave last night, "I wish that my house was always sparkling and that the kids would dance around me with daisy chains while I sewed." We giggled.

1979 was a good year.

The madness has continued. I have loved it all. Almost.

I got into a stinky mood while we were in the hotel room in KC. I just couldn't bear being cooped up in there during naptime. Naps never happened (as they don't in hotel rooms), so we ended up going out and working on some Christmas presents for the grandparents. I can't say exactly what we worked on because the grandparents read the blog. :)

We were able to go to IHOP (International House of Prayer) in KC and spend some time in the prayer room, worshipping with our brothers and sisters. It was truly a blessed time. Lucy had several people offer prayers for her--which was so special. I look forward to seeing those things materialize in her life.

We went out for dinner with some of my former students (now friends!), Tim and Anna. We took them to an Indian restaurant for their first Indian experience. The food took FOREVER and Maryn broke a plate, but it was some of the tastiest Indian food I've ever had. I think Tim and Anna enjoyed themselves.

We headed to NWA (Northwest Arkansas) for Lucy's birthday party with our families. It was fun and so good to see everyone. Lucy received a lot of clothes and some sweet little toys just for her (not ones she's inherited from her brother and sister). :) I also received some lovely presents. I am so blessed.

The blessings haven't stopped.

Dave distracted me on the way home, and took a detour to Ft. Smith where we stopped to stay the night with our friends, Brian and Megan. He tricked me! I was so glad he was able to...he slips up and I'm too nosy. Not a good combo for surprises! Our kids are having a blast playing with Alice's toys, and it has been fun to visit with our friends.

We leave here after lunch and head home where a few more things await...

This has been the best birthday ever. It isn't the stuff I've gotten but the time and thoughtfulness of my husband that has been the most special. Dave learned a long time ago that my birthday is a big deal to me. So, he rose to meet the challenge!

Lucy Claire is my favorite birthday present, for the 2nd time! She is such a blessing of a child. I can't help but recall the beauty of her birth--the pain I embraced, the lessons the Holy Spirit taught me. You can go back to this time last year on my old blog to read about it. Children are a blessing from the LORD. A blessing and NOT a burden. Thank you, Lord, for my precious children!!!

Thank you, birthday well-wishers (here and on Facebook) who have reminded me that I am loved. I love you, too.

I'm 30!!!!

Friends, Old and New

This is gonna be a long one, folks.

I've blogged about my friendship with Angela in the past on my old blog. But, since she is the oldest friend in this post, I'll start with her and refresh your memories.

Angela and I met in the 7th grade at church camp. We discovered that we both had a crush on a boy named Ben. It bonded us pretty quickly. Our friendship began, and the next year, I began to get involved with the youth group at her church, so we saw one another more frequently, and we shared a friend, Tricia. So, there were numerous hanging out opportunities (and chances to talk about Ben).

Ninth grade came, and Angela came to my school. We were in class together and maintained our friendship. We then shared another friend, Allison. We still went to church camp every summer and hung out. She home-schooled after that, but we still saw one another at church functions and sporting events. We talked on the phone from time to time, and I went swimming at her house several times. It was a typical high school friendship.

Then at the end of high school, she moved far away to Washington D.C. and started the adventure of life on her own. We lost touch. And then, about three years ago, our friend, Allison, told me Angela had a blog. I had a blog too, and so we caught up.

Angela is (and always has been) a very encouraging person. She was not a fan of strife in relationships. I can't remember ever getting into a fight with her. She's a peacemaker--and now this plays out in her professional life as a photojournalist. She is giving a voice to the voiceless through her photographs. It's incredible the many places she's gone and the things she's experienced. I am so honored to know her, and I was even more honored to attend her wedding to Craig (not Ben! :). Check out her blog if you want to be inspired to love people because that's what will happen!

Of course, Angela and Tricia introduced me to Allison. Allison is funny. Very funny. But she doesn't mean to be. That's what is so great about her! Alli and I became very good friends very quickly. We both shared a heart to know God. Our times at church camp together were so very special and holy. Alli was one of the few people in high school who spurred me on to love and good deeds. She was a constant source of encouragement and friendship. She was very good at accepting me, warts and all. I have so many wonderful memories from high school with Alli.

One of my favorite memories is riding around in her purple convertible singing Fleetwood Mac tribute songs at the top of our lungs. We studied God's word together, we watched a lot of "Dawson's Creek" together, and we spent entirely too much time arguing about how I didn't wear enough makeup and why Alli would only eat Snackwell's cookies instead of Oreos. I wore her down on the Oreos eventually.

We lost touch briefly after college, but we soon reconnected. I am so glad I know Allison. I'm also so proud of her as a wife and mommy. I was so glad we got to spend an entire evening hanging out before the wedding. It was so good to be with her again. She married a funny man, and she has an adorable, wide-awake daughter. I'm so proud to call her my friend.

I had to put a pic of Lucy in here. She was such a good little traveler. She rolled with the punches, slept when she could, and had an overall sunny disposition. But then again, that's my girl. Isn't she pretty in her party gown?

Joanna. Sweet Joanna. I met Joanna through my friend, Carrie, who just said, "You have got to look at her blog. Her pictures are awesome, and she's a believer!" That's what I did. I went to her blog, began commenting on her thoughtful and beautiful posts. I can recall many days when I would read one of her posts, and it would edify me to no end!

We began messaging back and forth, and I knew she was a kindred spirit, a bosom buddy, a soul sister, whatever you want to call it. I so wanted to go to Angela's wedding, and what an added perk when I found out that she had asked Joanna to be her photographer (they met through my blog)! We were going to meet!

It was arranged. We talked on the phone for the first time, and even though I was at a baby shower, I was so excited to talk to her, that I hated to get off the phone. One night, we chatted on the phone for a couple of hours. It was awesome. It was like we had known one another forever. And it felt so special, because I know how she hates talking on the phone (ahem...I LOVE to talk on the phone).

When the time came for me to finally meet her, I got nervous. I had wondered if she would like me as much in person as she did through the blog or on the phone. I worried it wouldn't be the same. And it wasn't. It was better.

We hugged instantly, and it was like two sisters who hadn't seen one another in a long time. She had warned me that she might be kind of funky because her mind was on the wedding. She was delightful. I totally and completely loved her even more.

She sweetly carved out time to hang out with me the morning of the wedding. We had breakfast in the hotel restaurant and chatted about our families, our lives, and God. She photographed Lucy and me for a little while in the hotel lobby (pics--and a humbling and incredibly kind post about me--can be seen on her blog). She set me so at ease in front of the camera. I have NEVER liked pictures taken of my profile, but the one she took is so good! She says I'm photogenic, and I say she's an amazing photographer!

It was such a gift to be able to meet Joanna. I do hope we don't have to wait until eternity to meet again. And, it's nice to be able to say that I've finally met an internet friend (and I'm still alive).

Joanna was not the only internet friend I had the pleasure of meeting while I was on my trip. I also got to meet Katie. Katie and I met through xanga (though I'm not sure I remember how). As I read her blog, I realized we were cut from the same cloth. Here are the things we have in common:

We were both English teachers.
We both have stair-step children (though she has four and I have three--for now).
We both had our kids in this order: boy, girl, girl (and then she has another boy--which I'm hoping for us!)
Our third child is a girl and they share the name Lucy along with lots of hair and a sunny disposition.
We're both anal.
We are both opinionated.
We're both a little clumsy (sorry Katie, but it is true).

I know the list could be longer. Katie lives outside of Baltimore. When I booked my flight, I realized I had a layover in Baltimore on my way home. So, I gave her a call, and we set up a meeting at the Baltimore airport. She had to cancel because her son was scheduled to be baptized that Sunday. I was so sad, but I couldn't really expect her to miss that to meet me!!! :)

Then, due to the heavy rain, they had to reschedule his baptism (they baptize in a creek) for another week. I was thrilled! So, when we met, it too was like old friends coming back together. We had a nice chat at Starbucks for a couple of hours. We talked about books, schooling, our kids. It wasn't awkward or weird (at least for me!). It was wonderful to meet Katie and see her face to face. She's everything I knew she would be, and I hope we get to meet again.

Friends are a gift from God. I have a brother, but no sisters. I am so blessed to have so many wonderful friends who are like sisters to me. Our Father knows what we need, and I'm grateful for the many women He has supplied me with in my journey.

Hebrews 10:24, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Thank you, friends, for a lovely weekend I will never forget.

The Things I Saw There

The main purpose for going to Norfolk was to attend Angela and Craig's wedding (heard them referred to as "Crangela", and I haven't stopped chuckling about it!). I briefly got to see Ange on Thursday night, and she looked like a radiant, slightly stressed bride. There were so many people to talk to, mingle with, and details to remember. She did her best making her way around the room.

It's weird because I haven't seen her in probably about 10 years. So, my only communication with her has been over the last three years in the blog world. I became enthralled with her new life in Africa, and I enjoy reading her blog and seeing her pictures. She has changed so much, but when I saw her again in person, she was still Ange.

Her wedding was BEAUTIFUL. I loved how Jesus was the centerpiece of their ceremony. I could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit hovering in the sanctuary. It was really amazing. She looked so gorgeous. Her dress was killer. Go to Joanna's blog to see pics from the wedding. It was so fun to watch Jo in her element running around snapping pictures. That was a gift in itself!

I felt so many beautiful moments that weekend, and the wedding really stood out to me. Even the reception was so holy to me. I saw everyone dancing and celebrating, and I couldn't help but think of how someday, the church will have her wedding day, and there will be a great celebration!!!

Craig was very nice. I'm so glad I got to meet him. He is perfect for Angela. I love their shared vision and the way their hearts are entwined on many levels. I snapped a couple of blurry photographs at the reception during the first dance. They are an amazing-looking couple! My pictures are poor, but I needed something to remember that night.

The kiss during their first dance as husband and wife. I kind of like the blur for this.

Flash really can ruin a picture! They're still great looking.

I also really enjoyed being in a harbor city while I was in Norfolk. I didn't realize there would be ships everywhere. They were pretty cool. I was wishing the whole time that Dave and the kids were with me. They would have loved seeing the big ships.

I took this at sunrise the day I left.

This one too.

This one was a daytime pic on my first day there. I love how industrious it looks.

It was so fun to be in a place with a different culture and landscape. It is on my list of places to return to someday with the family. There's so much history there, and it is so fresh-feeling.

Next post: my friends, old and new.

Historic Jamestowne

I have several posts about my trip, but my first will be about Jamestown, VA. When I was planning my trip to Norfolk, I googled a map to see how far the airport was from the hotel, etc.　 What I found was that I would only be an hour from Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg, and Jamestown. I have an affinity for these colonial settlements. Yorktown has a special place in my heart, thanks to Mary Landreth, one of my professors in college, who helped me love history.　 I have always wanted to go to Williamsburg. It is a reenactment of colonial life, and everyone there is in character. I wanted to go to both of these places, but I knew I just didn't have enough time. However, Jamestown was doable. So, I made the plan to go to Jamestown while I was in Virginia.　

I know this sounds incredibly nerdy; it is, and it is okay. It's going to get worse.　
I promise.
　
I totally geeked out over Jamestown. Some of you are thinking, "Jamestown? Does that have something to do with American history?" Yes, indeed it does. It was the first colonial settlement in the New World. King James commissioned a group of adventurers onto a ship under the leadership of Captain John Smith to establish this colony. That is why the town is named after him. They also renamed the Powhatan River after him. It is now called the James River. Nice.
　
I got all teary-eyed seeing my history. I felt very young and very grateful. It was surreal and eerie to be walking on the same ground that those who first settled here walked upon. 400 years is a young age for a country, but it still seemed ancient to me. Here are some pictures I took while there.

There was this large cross to commemorate all those who gave up their lives to establish Jamestown. My favorite site was here where the first ship actually docked. They were able to run the ships right up to the shore to disembark. This sign is just in front of this part of the river.

Here is the spot. This was a very important moment for me, looking out on the water, imagining the ship docking and the weary men tumbling ashore.

I saw this lone flower growing right around that spot. I felt like it was a little gift from God. I know that sounds corny, but I really thought that.

These rocks were just picturesque and seemed appropriate for my imagination.

Of course, there is a statue of Pocahontas. The artist used poetic license in the sculpture--Pocahontas was between 10 and 12 years of age when the settlers arrived, and she was in no way romantically attached to John Smith. She saw him more as a white father.

And, the illustrious John Smith...he was a storyteller (an embellisher, to be sure), but he was a successful leader. He thought an awful lot of himself. You can almost see that in this sculpture. :) That smug look...

This is the church that was established there. It was Anglican, of course.

Here is the inside of the church. Sorry it's a bit blurry. It was so minimalistic and beautiful.

The fort here at Jamestown is slowly being uncovered. You can see the beginning of it here. It has been reconstructed as much as possible. You can see the James River as well.



Here are the reconstructed barracks. Homey, don't you think? They would normally have a thatched roof and would be enclosed. I don't know if they plan to do that with these or not.

There were several graves marked with crosses. I guess they were just unidentified settlers who probably died during what is called the "starving time". I didn't read all the plaques. Woops. For all I know, they could just be for decoration. :)

And the picture tour is now ending. Please do not exit the vehicle until we have made a complete stop. Thank you for joining me today.

More posts to come!!!

Whodunnit?

I got home on Sunday afternoon.

It was wonderful. I want to tell you all about it, but I have to wait.

Why?

Because right now, I am seething.

MAD.
ANGRY.
MUY MALO.

Someone compromised my debit card number while I was in Virginia.
They are using it on telecommunications (about $600 worth).
They used it at Lowe's ($400+).

So, I can't talk about how lovely my trip was or how wonderful it was to meet Joanna and Katie. (Yes, I got to meet Katie as well b/c her plans changed).

So, after I calm down, you can expect a post (or three...I have several in my head currently).

I keep thinking, "Was it that waitress at Chili's? Or the ATM I used at the mall? Or the other waitress at Joe's Crab Shack? Or was it the parking attendant?" Seriously.

Thank God He is the judge and not me.

Pray for me, and use cash when dining out. I should have known better.