A Day in the Life of a Sawhook

20 things I'll NEVER do...

2010-06-14T13:54:00.004-04:00

So - I got this idea from a friend and it was SO fun to read hers - that I thought I'd try it out too! :)

SOOOOO......Here we go!

1) I'll NEVER get a belly button ring! It hurt too bad the first time, and thanks to my 2 c-sections...my belly isn't seen any longer!

2) I'll never wear high heels or be into shoes. I've tried. I don't get it - and I don't see why people are so into them? It's shoes! You walk on them...they get dirty - and who wants to be uncomfortable ALL DAY LONG?

3) I'll never ride on a moped or motorcycle. While it was one of the GREATEST days of my ENTIRE life....despite our accident....I will NEVER get on the back of another motorcycle OR moped!

4) I'll never pay a construction worker the full amount before the work is completed. Yeah - long story...don't go there.

5) I'll never own another mini-van. Sure, it's convenient and sooo nice for traveling...but it's just not me. I felt like a different person behind the wheel. I'll stick to SUV's....I've had one since I was 20...so it's just my thing. TOTALLY don't judge YOU if YOU have a mini-van....you probably hate SUV's and the gas milage is WAY better....just still not a fan.

6) I'll never work at a sales call center. Yes - the money is HARD to beat....but I would DIE if I had to call and ask people to switch from ATT&T to MCI again! I'm getting twitches just thinking about it! I'd rather work in a nursing home wiping bottoms. (ok - maybe that is extreme)

7) I'll never be a Lakers fan. Yes - I'm married to a die-hard one....but there's just SOMETHING about it that I don't like. It's not that I truly care...I really don't....but you will NEVER catch me in Yellow and Purple....it just doesn't go together!

8) I'll never be able to eat anything I want. I hate you if you can. I always have and always will have to count calories and worry about exercising and watching every morsel that comes close to my mouth! In fact - I probably just gained a pound talking about this!

9) I'll never own a bird. YUCK YUCK YUCK! I hate birds. I think they are gross and they are annoying when I try to sleep! They poop while in motion and it's runny. GROSS! I don't understand how they make pets...but to each his own!

10) I'll never have a green thumb. I'm sorry - I just can't seem to get a grasp on loving yard work or keeping things alive! I LOVE how it looks when people have beautiful landscaping and flowers everywhere - but I don't get it! Why would I choose to go out in the heat and pull weeds!? NOT FUN!

11) Play golf. zzzzzzz

12) Watch golf. even bigger zzzzzzzz

13) Relax in the wintertime. I am DEATHLY afraid of the stomach virus....seriously. As in, I lose sleep over it, watch everything I eat all winter (for fear of it coming up again) and clean the trash cans and toilets weekly!

14) Be good at drums. Yeah - no good at all. I even tried to sound check them one time at Crosspoint and failed at that.

15) Wear panty hose. I was SCARRED for life with panty hose in college. I hate them....I can NEVER get them on without running them and I feel claustrophobic when they are on.

16) Go camping. The thought of sleeping outside without air conditioning in a tent and waking up all humid and eaten by bugs grosses me out. Also - whatever would I do without my straightening iron and a good make-up mirror! Perhaps in a nice air-conditioned camper....but who REALLY calls that camping?

17) Cross stitch. I mean...really!?

18) Climb. Everest, telephone pole, tree....forget it. I hate heights and unless my life was in danger - you won't catch me climbing anything.

19) I'll never be a good salsa dancer. My hips do LIE!

20) I'll never stop rubbing my eyebrows! I did it while sucking my thumb as a child - and I STILL do it whenever I'm tired. My mom told me that I'd have to quit when I grew up and got married - but Jon is ok with it - so we're good!

MOVING!

2010-02-02T14:24:00.001-05:00

Friends and family....

This blog has fallen by the wayside!

It's hard to keep up with 2 blogs and a twitter and a facebook -

and still find time to do my job and raise 2 kids! :)

Please feel free to follow me over to my "staff" blog at the following

address:

http://xpressway521.blogspot.com/

Potty Training Blues

2009-12-26T13:05:00.002-05:00

I have a couple of stories about Kennedy and potty training! :)

I can laugh now - now that she is accident free and doing AWESOME with no diapers! WHOO HOO!

1) The first story takes place at Dillons Grocery Store in KS. We were in a hurry, trying to get lunch meat for our sub sandwiches. I had a basket full of groceries when Kennedy told me she had to go potty! YAY! we dropped the groceries with mom, and ran for the bathroom! :) No accident! Back in the aisle, finishing up our shopping, I turned around to see Kennedy literally SQUATTING! WHAT? I dropped the groceries, scooped her up and took off running! The whole time I'm saying..."Hold it!", "No accidents!", and then "Squeeze your cheeks together!"....I looked at her face (stricken with fear as I'm running her and shouting orders), and both hands were up on her face squeezing as hard as she could! HAHAHA! Apparently I hadn't shared with her that her behind is also called "cheeks".... :)

2) The second story took place while my sister and I were getting pedicures. We decided to take Kennedy with us for a "girls trip". She got her fingernails painted purple and was having a great time. The manicurist was SO nice and told her that she could sit on my lap, take her shoes off, and stick her toes in the water. How FUN! :)

She was so excited. She took off her shoes and stuck her toes in. It wasn't 2 minutes later when I suddenly felt very warm all over. I looked down to discover that Kennedy had peed ALL OVER me! :) Fun times.

Thankful to report - Kennedy has been accident free since Tuesday! She's doing great!!! :)

Memories

2009-12-15T18:22:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite memories of Christmas as a child was meeting up with our church and caroling around Haven. My favorite stop was the house of Mary Bridgeman who always made us popcorn balls. YUMM! I love this time of year...the carols, the smell in the air, the decorations in and out of stores.

We are working hard on starting Christmas traditions with Jaxen and Kennedy. Teaching them first that it's Jesus' Birthday...and because God gave His son Jesus as a gift for US on this day part of the celebration is that we give gifts to them! Kennedy TOTALLY gets it! We are having a party for Jesus complete with hats and cake! :) She might be a TAD bit confused when He doesn't "show up" in the flesh - but we'll cross that bridge when we get there.

We're also teaching her about Santa...and what fun that can be....doing Gingerbread houses, looking at Christmas lights, opening Christmas Eve PJ's and leaving Reindeer dust on the sidewalk so that Santa doesn't miss our house! :)

Love my kids, love my family....

Random Ramblings mostly for Grandma! :)

2009-08-26T07:51:00.002-04:00

1) Jaxen is walking everywhere...into everything...and thinks he gets to do whatever Kennedy does. He has a lot to learn. HA!

2) Sometimes I see my brother Wes in Jaxen. It's weird...I don't know whether to hug him - or get a curling iron out. (long story)

3) For my 30th birthday I received 3 little prickly hairs on my chinny chin chin...WHAT THE HECK?

4) Kennedy held up my bra the other day and said "Mommy wearing boobies today?"...hmmm let me think on that one.

5) My job is going great. I am learning to lead...it's hard. It would be EASY if I didn't have people to deal with...oh wait....that's the point! :)

6) Last Sunday we had about 60 kids in Xpressway (Our children's program)....we were missing approx. 18 regulars. YIKES! YAAAAY!

7) Working out 6 days a week...feels like another PT job. I got a trainer - and she likes to see me suffer.

8) We leave for the beach in just over a week....I can't wait to get away and relax.

9) God has given me 2 new friends who are AMAZING!!! It's like He knew EXACTLY what I needed - and brought these 2 women to my life! Love my "old" friends too!

10) Jaxen is obsessed with pulling Kennedy's hair.

11) We are BLESSED with a WONDERFUL school for the kids to go to. They LOVE it - and the teachers are awesome. I'm excited to see what this year will bring. They go 2 days a week. If we stay here - our kids will probably continue their education there through high school.

12) Not planning on staying here Grandma. :) Some exciting things in the works!!!

13) Headed to Vail, CO in 3 weeks with one of my best friends and my 2 sisters!!!! Can't wait!

14) I no longer drink soda of any kind. Diet or Regular. Only Water and Green Tea. mmm....I feel sooo much better!

15) Jon is and forever will be the love of my life. He is an amazing creation and gift to me. (You already know this...but it was worth saying again)

Step by Step

2009-07-14T08:25:00.002-04:00

Well - Jaxen has taken off. I TOTALLY called it (that it would happen the week after we left Kansas) because that's how these things go! :)

He is toddling around the little play places and from room to room! Lots of bumps and bruises with all the falls - but he is up to about 15 steps at a time. Kennedy thinks it's hilarious! She is IN FOR IT when he starts running around. :)

We are officially home from a great vacation and into our normal routine. Didn't take too long! We had a great time being away. It was exactly what we needed...minus the 21 hour drive each way! We are so grateful to everyone who took time out to come and see us - or hang out. We know everyone is busy and that a lot of trips to Haven - and so forth were made. THANK YOU for making our trip so WONDERFUL!

Looking forward...

2009-06-25T16:37:00.002-04:00

Next week we are heading to Kansas to see my family. I can't tell you how excited I am to go home! :) I always look forward to this time. It gives me a calming sense of peace as I see the water tower and make the turn onto Haven/Buhler Road. It's like suddenly - everything is "OK"....life is not hard anymore.

It's always a hard time for Jon and I. I go through this incredible roller coaster of emotions. I always start dreaming of moving back and living near my family. I start searching for IT jobs - and brainstorming how we can make it work...making contacts with several people who can "hook us up" with work. Even though I know this is where God has us now - it is still so hard to live far away. I dream of going on walks with my mom, shopping with my sister, coffee with my brother, and lunches with my grandparents. I have 2 of the closest friends ever that still live there - and still to this day - no one can make me laugh like those 2! :)

It has nothing to do with hating where we are at - we love it here....but it has everything to do with the overwhelming sense of sadness as we pull away, knowing we won't see them for many months. I always tell myself not to cry...and then the lump comes. It's so big I can't swallow - and tears pour like rain. I'm already trying to prepare myself for this bitter sweet visit. (I'm sure Jon is too!) :)

Can't wait to see you guys!

Helping me mother

2009-06-17T08:01:00.001-04:00

Kennedy is into helping with EVERYTHING. She loves to tell Jaxen "no-no" - and to be a Good boy and OBEY...ha! At least we are getting through to her right?!

Well - I am constantly saying - "Let me be the mommy"....

so today - Jaxen was hitting his toy on the TV...and Kennedy said "HURRY MOM...Hit his hand!"...

HA! Perhaps we need to have a clarification between hitting and spanking.... :)

"Ted"

2009-06-17T07:30:00.003-04:00

Lately we've been praying that we would have eyes like Jesus. That we would be able to see people for WHO they are...not how they are dressed - or how they act - or what they do....but for the creatures that God created them to be. This has given us an ENTIRE new outlook on people...it's been an insane ride.
It's so easy as humans to make friends that are so much LIKE us - everyone wants to be a part of the "in" crowd - and be invited to things - and feel accepted....but that doesn't always happen! The problem with this is that Jesus didn't model that for us in any way, shape or form. Instead of staying close to his disciples and being surrounded by them 24/7 - He would break away from them and go out to meet others. The disciples would have never reached out to the ones that Jesus did...and in fact questioned Him on several occasions! THIS is the model that we are supposed to follow! Christ didn't see these people as sinners - or poor - or the ones who weren't dressed properly...he didn't look to be friends with the guy who was the funny one - or the girl who had all the talent. Instead he found the individuals whom no one else would befriend - and loved on them. This is the mindset that Jon and I are TRYING to adopt. In and through that goal - we have been able to find friendships in the strangest places! People who we would have never dreamed we would befriend - or people that are easily over looked. In return - we've been sooo blessed by meeting some of the neatest people and developing relationships that are growing!

Today - Jon came home from work and told me that he took time out today to talk to this guy at work. He's kind of the "dork" of the office - and whenever he talks - people usually snicker and roll their eyes. First of all - that breaks my heart in a million pieces. Jon asked him if he had kids today...and the guy proceeded to tell him that he had 2 boys about 16 months apart. Immediately Jon could relate to him b/c of how close in age our kids are. (You have no idea how many relationships this has helped us find common ground in) Jon was telling him that our kids are at the age where they are so needy and they've started "fighting" (which we won't allow) over toys and things.
"Ted" told Jon that he didn't have to worry about fighting with his 2 kids. Jon was a little excited by this and was hoping the guy would say that "In a year - they'd be best friends". Instead this guy (who has been ignored by ALL in the office) proceeded to tell Jon that his son had almost drowned a year ago. He went on to say that his son was unable to take care of himself in any way. He's unable to even move his head or raise his eyebrow. This guy - (who has been ignored by ALL in the office) has been carrying around this heavy burden. It has just been a year ago that this happened. See - this guy just moved his family here from Oklahoma, has no friends, just started a new job, and leaves his wife every day with one special needs child and one "normal-functioning" child - to fight traffic and sit behind a desk...only to be laughed at and made fun of. Gosh - I don't know about you - but I can't stand the thought. My eyes fill up with tears and my heart breaks for this man.
All it took was Jon taking his eyes off of himself and his problems - and his every day stress - and taking time to listen to this guy. Jon was able to stop what He was doing - stop trying to get ahead - and just STOP and listen. He was able to share some scripture with him - and did so without being apologetic. "Ted" was completely moved by these actions...and perhaps - if only for today - he can go home FULL...and be able to serve his wife and kids - even if only for today.
I hope that we ALL take these precious opportunities....I hope that God puts people in your path that you can just stop and listen too....that you can take time to get to know....that you can GET OUT of your comfort zone and be a little uncomfortable with! It makes me shudder to think about how many opportunities I've missed out on...just because I was too busy and too selfish to notice.

Jaxen's 1!

2009-06-16T15:40:00.002-04:00

Looking back a year ago today...was a very different time! First of all...I had just had a c-section...and was recovering in the Hospital. Secondly - I had a beautiful baby boy named JAXEN! :) Crazy! Also on this day - the CELTICS were winning the championship (GO PAUL PIERCE) . (Sorry Jon)

I can't believe Jaxen is 1 already. With your first child - it seems like the longest year of your life! You are pushing them to hold their bottles - then trying to get them to crawl and then pushing them to walk....but with your second...it's completely different! Suddenly time can't slow down - and life starts flying by without you feeling it!

Also this day a year ago...our house had been sitting on the market for 5 months. We KNEW we were moving - but didn't know when or how...and we were VERY unsettled in our current state of life. Funny part is - that on this day at about 4pm - we got a call from our realtor that our house had gone under contract!....We KNEW God had just the right timing - and we called for a 45 day closing - which would allow us to move by August 1st.

We had so many unanswered questions - the hows and why's were HUGE and the not knowing KILLED ME! I remember calling my mom and Danielle - and crying to them about how this was NOT fair....how could a man (Jon's boss) play with our lives!? What were we supposed to be doing - and how was it going to happen!? Where would the money for the move come - and how could we afford our car - etc. So many questions - no answers.

I am thankful - looking back - for the time we went through. It made us stronger - we knew we were on the same team. Suddenly - we didn't need anyone else - it was just about us and the good of our family. It was an amazing time of growth. We are thankful for giving us 2 healthy kids...they bring us so much Joy. (As I'm writing this - they are BOTH screaming their heads off and crying)...so I keep telling myself that they bring us mostly joy. :)

I know we have many more memories to make and fun to have as they grow. We are also so thankful that God moved us to Charlotte. What an incredible feeling to be right smack dab in God's will for us! We feel like we were brought here to be a part of Crosspoint (which I've said over and over) - but each new day and new story and new life changed reminds us of that.

It's been a great year! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAXEN....and many many more!

Bout of sickness

2009-05-30T07:36:00.002-04:00

Well -this week has been awful. :) I agree with a good friend who said..."I'd like a Do-Over please?" The kids and I have all been sick. Super sick. Horrible viral sinus stuff! Both kids had ear infections as well....that makes for an interesting day. 2 sick toddlers and 1 sick Mommy=no fun! :) All mom's can agree having sick kids is the pits! To top it off - Jon had MAJOR meetings at work this week. He had to leave the house at 6:30am - and didn't get home until 8pm. Whew! There were a couple of days where I didn't know if I was going to make it. Couldn't even climb the stairs b/c of dizziness and fever! :(

We got Kennedy some medicine - and well...found out it didn't quite agree with her body...in the middle of the mall yesterday. :) We were finally feeling better - and so we decided to try to get out of the house. There was a guy who was doing Consumer Report Research which paid you $20 to do a short survey!! (of course I signed Jon and I up!) $40 to do a 10 minute survey each...sweet! That could be a dinner out! First of all - the guy doing the survey was VERY SLOW...and I don't mean - UN-FAST. I mean slow. It was sad. He didn't know how to spell...or read. :( I felt so sorry for him - but it did end up taking longer than 10 minutes. I signed something saying I wouldn't talk about the survey...but let's just say I failed...and it had to do with tasting chocolate. HA! (Maybe I am the slow one?)...so I only got $5...still...that's 5 large Tea's at McDonalds!

When I came back Jon and the kids weren't there. Of course - my nature thought the worst...what if they left me!? HA! I had been SUPER sick and snotty all week.... :) Maybe he thought I could use a good walk home ... by myself!? I waited for a while - walked around...they were nowhere! Finally, I started checking bathrooms...and of course - had to check the mens! Ugh. They were in one of them....and as Jon was coming out, I saw that Kennedy was only in her diaper. :) Ahhh....turns out she exploded in the kids play area. EWWWWWWWW. All over her clothes....dripping down her legs....oh man. What a diaper for Jon to get! HA! (oops) It was ALL over the bathroom floor, all over the garbage can, all over the changing table. We can't even begin to explain the LOOKS we got as we exited the mall with a naked child. haha! It's happened 2 more times since then....but in our house...thankfully!

We are getting our carpets cleaned Monday...and calling the Dr. for a different medicine Monday. :)

On another note...Grandma...my tomatoes are starting to bloom! (Is that what you call it?) they are green - and about the size of a large cherry tomato! ;) can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!! Random...I know this.

A wise man once told me....

2009-05-19T14:24:00.002-04:00

Just because you're supposedly "good" at something...doesn't mean it's your time to do it.

I mean...just because you are funny...doesn't mean you are "meant" to be a comedian.

Just because you can speak in front of people - doesn't mean that you are supposed to be an orator.

Just because I can teach my children a lesson about sharing - doesn't mean I'm supposed to be a teacher.

Just because I can carry a tune...doesn't mean I'm supposed to be a singer.

I can't tell you how free that made me feel! I am so thankful for his wise advice! He also told me that God takes where we are weak...and uses it to make us strong - so that when we are done...the only thing people can say is "Look what God has done!" .... That is EXCITING TO ME!!! I am not a Children's ministry expert...or even knowledgeable in any form or fashion! I have no experience (besides the past few months...and no fancy degree to hang in my office...ahem...my living room) ;)

This is all trial and error for me! I pray that God will lead me and give me wisdom in the decisions I make regarding the ministry....and that when all is said and done....people will exclaim..."Come and SEE what the Lord is DOING at Crosspoint!"

Top Ten Updates

2009-05-19T07:49:00.005-04:00

1) Kennedy will do ANYTHING and EVERYTHING to be like Jon or I - except go potty on the big girl potty.... (PS - Jon goes on the "Big Boy" potty)

2) Yesterday I caught Kennedy with my syringe in the bathroom - trying to squirt water into her mouth. (I've been doing this every time I eat anything since my wisdom teeth came out)

3) Kennedy is starting to talk up a STORM...she's always jabbering - and it actually makes sense! I LOVE talking with my little girl! She is so sweet.

4) Jaxen is too cute to discipline. (Come on...you've all been there)

5) When I DO...force myself....he usually looks at me and laughs...or gets his little heart broken. (Which is also SOO cute b/c his lip comes out so far) HA!

6) I'm having baby fever...but doing nothing about it...just sayin' (We're not done...if God allows)

7) I have the best husband known to man. I'm serious about this...he's too good to be true...still. And he doesn't have to try hard. It comes naturally to him. I appreciate his character - and for being 1 step ahead of just being "good". I can not name even 1 girl he thinks is pretty (even movie stars)...b/c he knows that it's doing nothing to edify me by pointing out pretty girls!!! I love this about him..even though I don't think it would make me jealous - it gives satan NOTHING to play with my mind over...EVER.

8) I love my job...love it. I couldn't ask for a better gig right now...the paycheck is just a bonus used to pay my childcare and cell phone....but I'd do it for free! (if I had free childcare and unlimited cellphone plan) HA!

9) Jaxen is into EVERYTHING...and I mean EVERYTHING. When he starts walking...I am in trouble...seriously getting nervous about this. (Hense #6 and waiting)

10) It's almost officially summer...and we have some pretty exciting stuff coming down the pike...HURRY up and get here!!!!! Most of it consists of seeing YOU! (if you're reading this from out of town!) :)

In case you're wondering....

2009-05-12T23:08:00.003-04:00

In case you're wondering WHY I do what I do...why I love talking about my church and why I LOVE my job...

please read the following...
This was written by our Pastor (Jimmy Wade)....

How can you NOT be a part of something like this?!

Monday, May 11, 2009

Burden

I have such a burden for my church and for my community. I want our church to know the joy of following Christ as a way of lfe. I want them to know what it means to radically submit their lives to Him in complete abandon and surrender. I want them to realize that our church is a body that isn't complete unless everyone finds their place of service on Sunday mornings throughout every ministry. I want them to long for Sundays and not dare miss our worship gatherings because they know Christ is there. I want our church to see the vision of filling every seat in Ardrey Kell, not because we want to be big but because we want to make a dent in the vast seventy-five percent of people who don't attend church. I want them to feel the burden that Jesus has for our community and see it through his eyes and sense the lostness and hopelessness that pervades much of our city! I want our church to find ways to tell their friends to "come and see" because they know they won't be ashamed to bring them to Crosspoint! I want them to see themselves as Christ's hands and feet in this community and give of themselves because they have so much to give and they can share of the world's goods because they know they have more than they need. I want our church to love this community, not because it offers them so much but because we can offer it so much! I want our church to love the unloveable, to touch the untouchable, to give to the ungrateful, to forgive the unforgiveable, to do whatever Jesus would do no matter who it is! I dream of this, I long for this, I pray for this, I believe in this. May God make it so!

Wisdom Teeth

2009-05-08T08:59:00.003-04:00

Well - this week - we flew my mom out to watch our kids while we did Drive-In, Drive and while I got out my wisdom teeth! Talk about having the BEST BABYSITTER EVER! Kennedy and Jaxen love Mom-mom and they have had a great time. It was so comforting to know they were in good hands! :)

So - yesterday I went in and had 4 teeth pulled...only - 1 was impacted...and that is not fun. Pain pills are good. HAHA - apparently I tried to update my status on facebook - and instead left some nonsense message to a friend instead! HAHA...

I was completely knocked out - and so far I'm doing great! I can tell when my meds start to wear off - but mostly I just feel like I got into a bar fight with Chuck Norris - and lost. :)

So far - no swelling...which is great. The Doctor said that the swelling will come today or tomorrow - if at all....so I'm waiting! :) (Maybe I could blame my double chin on swelling?) hmm... :)

I do have a nasty bruise on my arm from my IV. Yowsers! It is black..and the size of a half dollar! Mom has been a great help...changing out my gauze, making sure I'm eating jello and taking care of the kids... now - if only they would move here.

Anyone reading this can please help us pursuade them that this is God's plan for their lives. Audrey and Chris are moving here once Audrey graduates....so.....they need to come with them! :) We've got it all figured out. Trust me. :) We've got an "in" for dad at Fed Ex...and 20 piano students for mom at $44 an hour! HELLO? That's amazing! :)

Anyway - Day 1 went ok with my wisdom Teeth. I would definiately say the C-section was more pain....definiately....but I got a baby out of that ordeal! :)

Here's all I got out of this ordeal.....a cute headband.

Drive...not to be confused with Drive-In

2009-05-08T08:49:00.005-04:00

Well - in the words of our lovely pastors wife and friend...I have been to 2 drive-in's in the past week - but haven't seen a movie at either one! :)

Our church staff and spouses (including Allen - HA) went to a conference at North Point Church in Atlanta, Georgia. It was hosted by Andy Stanley...who basically in the man...
I can't tell you what a life changing experience it was for Jon and I. WOW...Jon had never experienced anything even close to this - and was moved and his heart was tugged and pulled and stretched. It was so neat to watch. I think Jon has always been passionate about our church THROUGH my passion...if that makes sense? Kind of like - I think Elvis is pretty great - but only b/c Jon has fed that to me. ?? So on a much better and bigger scale...Jon saw the Vision for Crosspoint! So that was a huge blessing for me. I hope he doesn't mind me sharing.
The next thing was that I was able to start dreaming. Just dreaming about what could be in the kids ministry, in the worship, in small group life. It made me realize that we need to cast the Vision of our church ministries - not the needs for volunteers. It makes me want to invest in others so that they can be better - and raise up leaders who could take my place at any time. I realized that I am hindering growth in the kids ministry every time I try to do things all by myself. I realized that some of my best ideas are risks and can come from even the smallest volunteer on the "food chain".

I am so excited and completely passionate about this church. I am 100% behind what Jimmy and Patty have given their lives to. Our vision is: Love God. Love Others. Serve the World. I saw so many things that Andy Stanley was telling us to do - that Jimmy and Patty are already DOING! It was so comforting to see that they are living out what they talk about.
I pray that as we come back - we can excite and energize our tired volunteers and raise up new ones. I pray that we come back knowing that God will work in this church - not just hoping.
Here are some pictures. By the way - their kids ministry was off the hook. I can't even describe it. :) Whoo hoo! :) Exciting things to come

Drive -In

2009-05-08T08:28:00.004-04:00

Well - last weekend was a huge event for Crosspoint Kids Ministy! We launched the new set and official curriculum for "the Drive-In". The Drive in is the environment for our K-5th graders on Sunday mornings! It is where they experience small group life for the first time - rockin' worship, and a Bible story that comes to life. Gone are the days of sitting around a Sunday School table (these things are fine) but our methods have changed...not the message!!! We want our kids to come away with 3 things by the time they enter middle school:

Wisdom: I need to make the wise choice
Trust: I can trust God no matter what
Friendship: I need to treat others the way I want to be treated!

Those are our 3 bottom lines - but encaptured in that are 36 virtues and 150 Bible Stories!!!

I am so excited that we have pulled this off in 2 months of working on it! WOW! What great volunteers I have! So blessed! There is soo much farther I want to go - but all in good time! :)
We celebrated by having a drive-in movie and lesson as well as concession stand style food such as
hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, twizzlers and sodas. It was a fun day had by all! We had a great turnout of parents and potential volunteers and we're praying that they catch the vision of children's ministry and the impact they can have in a child's life.

Here are some pictures to highlight the event! :)

Thinking of having kids?

2009-05-02T23:19:00.003-04:00

Thinking of Having Kids?

Do this 11-step program first!

Lesson 1
1. Go to the grocery store.
2. Arrange to have your salary paid directly to their head office.
3. Go home.
4. Pick up the newspaper.
5. Read it for the last time.

Lesson 2
Before you finally go ahead and have children, find a couple who.already
are parents and berate them about their
1. Methods of discipline.
2. Lack of patience.
3. Appallingly low tolerance levels.
4. Allowing their children to run wild.
5. Suggest ways in which they might improve their child's breast
feeding, sleep habits, toilet training, table manners, and overall
behavior. Enjoy it because it will be the last time in your life you
will have all the answers.

Lesson 3
A really good way to discover how the nights might feel
1. Get home from work and immediately begin walking around the living
room from 5PM to 10PM carrying a wet bag weighing approximately 8-12
pounds, with a radio turned to static (or some other obnoxious sound)
Playing loudly. (Eat cold food with one hand for dinner)
2. At 10PM, put the bag gently down, set the alarm for midnight, and go
to sleep.
3. Get up at 12 and walk around the living room again, with the bag,
until 1AM.
4. Set the alarm for 3AM.
5. As you can't get back to sleep, get up at 2AM and make a drink and
watch an infomercial.
6. Go to bed at 2:45AM.
7. Get up at 3AM when the alarm goes off.
8. Sing songs quietly in the dark until 4AM.
9. Get up. Make breakfast. Get ready for work and go to work (work hard
and be productive)
Repeat steps 1-9 each night. Keep this up for 3-5 years. Look cheerful
and together.

Lesson 4
Can you stand the mess children make? To find out
1. Smear peanut butter onto the sofa and jam onto the curtains.
2. Hide a piece of raw chicken behind the stereo and leave it there all
summer.
3. Stick your fingers in the flower bed.
4. Then rub them on the clean walls.
5. Take your favorite book, photo album, etc. Wreck it.
6. Spill milk on your new pillows. Cover the stains with crayons. How
does that look?

Lesson 5
Dressing small children is not as easy as it seems.
1. Buy an octopus and a small bag made out of loose mesh.
2. Attempt to put the octopus into the bag so that none of the arms hang
out. Time allowed for this - all morning.

Lesson 6
Forget the BMW and buy a mini-van. And don't think that you can leave it
out in the driveway spotless and shining. Family cars don't look like
that.
1. Buy a chocolate ice cream cone and put it in the glove compartment.
Leave it there.
2. Get a dime. Stick it in the CD player.
3. Take a family size package of chocolate cookies. Mash them into the
back seat. Sprinkle cheerios all over the floor, then smash them with
your foot.
4. Run a garden rake along both sides of the car.

Lesson 7
Go to the local grocery store. Take with you the closest thing you can
find to a pre-school child. (A full-grown goat is an excellent choice).
If you intend to have more than one child, then definitely take more
than one goat. Buy your week's groceries without letting the goats out
of your sight. Pay for everything the goat eats or destroys. Until you
can easily accomplish this, do not even contemplate having children.

Lesson 8
1. Hollow out a melon.
2. Make a small hole in the side.
3. Suspend it from the ceiling and swing it from side to side..
4. Now get a bowl of soggy Cheerios and attempt to spoon them into the
swaying melon by pretending to be an airplane.
5. Continue until half the Cheerios are gone.
6. Tip half into your lap. The other half, just throw up in the air.

You are now ready to feed a nine- month-old baby.

Lesson 9
Learn the names of every character from Sesame Street, Barney, Disney,
the Teletubbies, and Pokemon. Watch nothing else on TV but PBS, the Disney
channel or Noggin for at least five years. (I know, you're thinking
What's 'Noggin'?) Exactly the point.

Lesson 10
Make a recording of Fran Drescher saying 'mommy' repeatedly.(Important:
no more than a four second delay between each 'mommy'; occasional
crescendo to the level of a supersonic jet is required). Play this tape
in your car everywhere you go for the next four years. You are now ready
to take a long trip with a toddler.

Lesson 11
Start talking to an adult of your choice. Have someone else continually
tug on your skirt hem, shirt- sleeve, or elbow while playing the 'mommy'
tape made from Lesson 10 above. You are now ready to have a conversation
with an adult while there is a child in the room.

New words

2009-04-29T11:24:00.002-04:00

Jaxen can say 2 words REALLY well. They are
Ball and Uh-Oh.
It is HILARIOUS....he gets the funniest expression and gravels his voice and says
"Uh-oh"...lips pursed as much as possible.
We will try to get it on video soon! :)

On another note. Kennedy is a PEEING machine! I want her to toilet train SOO bad! She has NO INTEREST whatsoever! She is leaking out of diapers left and right - and I am constantly cleaning up PEE! ICK.... Can I force this? No juice unless you pee in the big girl potty? No Dora unless you pee in the big girl potty? HELP!

It's been a while!

2009-04-27T17:03:00.004-04:00

I'll do a quick re-cap of the last 2 weeks! :)

We painted....the downstairs bathroom - as well as a little table and chairs we got for Jaxen and Kennedy. :)

We celebrated Jon turning 32!!!

Kennedy

2009-04-14T08:22:00.002-04:00

Today as we were getting ready for school/work - Kennedy brought me over my belt and said "Mommy seat belt On". :)

This week is "yellow week" at school...the children are encouraged to wear the color yellow - they learn about yellow - they color pictures of yellow things and eat yellow snacks. It was a little tricky finding something yellow for her to wear - but we managed. I kept saying - This doesn't match....that doesn't match....
about 1/2 hour later - Kennedy brought me her yellow glasses and said - THIS MATCH! :) YAY!

Fun time!

2009-04-08T09:56:00.001-04:00

I LOVE seeing my kids play together! We ask Kennedy every day who her best friend is - and she says JAXEN! Jon and I want to teach them that they are best friends and that they need to be there for each other at all times. Lately we have had so much fun laying in our bed and laughing with each other. Kennedy LOVES to make Jaxen laugh...she tickles his toes or plays peek-a-boo. He always WAITS with anticipation to see what she will do next. I love it! This is the part about being a mom that I LOVE!!!!!!!

Isle of Palms

2009-04-08T08:46:00.004-04:00

We had a great trip to the beach....I can't even tell you how wonderful it was. Jon and I hadn't had a vacation since our honeymoon - and it was MUCH needed! :) The kids had a wonderful time playing in the sand, pools and ocean. It was a dream come true for Jon and I to watch our kids having so much fun! We stayed at a SUPER fancy place that our friends GRACIOUSLY let us bunk up in! We assumed that since we were staying so cheap...that we would be camping out on the floor or pull out couches. Well - our friends (Mandy and Don) gave us this HUGE room with a King Sized bed and huge bathroom and private deck. It was the most SACRIFICIAL thing ANYONE has EVER done for our family! It's hard to describe without going into major detail on here...but we were MOVED by the servant hearts of our friends this past weekend. Sometimes you forget that being a true friend and truly loving someone means serving. We experienced that over and over this weekend. Sometimes you feel like you are the only one giving and giving...and you start to feel empty and taken advantage of....and then you realize that you aren't doing it for earthly gain - but eternal rewards! The feeling we felt this past weekend was so amazing that Jon and I would be HONORED to bless others in the same way....over and over with nothing in return but a "Thank You". Anyway - this probably makes NO sense to some - and SOME sense to others - but we had a GREAT trip! :) Here are a few photos....

HEH-WOAH?

2009-04-06T08:25:00.002-04:00

Kennedy's favorite new game is to ring our doorbell. I don't really mind - she's not hurting anyone...and it's pretty cute. She runs from the back yard - into the front yard and rings the doorbell...then with her teeny little girl hand - she knocks. It's the cutest most gentle sound. Then she says...."HEH-WOAH!!!"....hahahahaha until I come answer the door.

I LOVE this game. I think it's just too cute - and I will play it as long as she wants me too! I know that time of NOT wanting me to play is not too far away....I'm trying to soak it all up!!!

BEACH!!!

2009-04-02T00:17:00.001-04:00

We are headed to the beach this weekend. Some dear friends of ours have rented us a SUPER fancy resort...and we get to share it with them!! SOOO FUN!

We have been buying toys to play in the sand with and kites to fly etc. We keep telling Kennedy that it's "For the Beach".

The best part is...she has NO IDEA what the beach is...yet is SOOOO EXCITED!!!

I love toddlers!!! :)

Locked out....again

2009-03-29T23:10:00.002-04:00

Yeah - most of you know that Jon and I have a "knack" for getting locked out of our house. Perhaps it is the array of sippy cups, diapers, wipes, snacks, juice, bottles, formula, sleepies, pacifiers and kids?! Or - just that we forget to grab keys when getting into a vehicle to go someplace!?
ANYWAY...we have many stories...and STILL no Spare KEY! What the heck!?
Tonight was no exception. We got the kids loaded...bags in place (containing the above mentioned items) and sat down in the van - ready to take off. Jon says to me (I am sitting in the passenger seat)..."KEYS?"....
RIGHT...hello - you are the driver. Your responsibility is the keys! ;) We had a mild discussion about it - but decided that it was NOT going to unlock our house! Next thing I know - Jack Bauer...ahem...I mean JON - was on our roof - breaking into our upstairs bathroom window. (Which is really high I might add). He went in...hands first and as un-gracefully as possible - managed to get in - and unlock our door.
Sigh...still need to get that spare key made.....

Some "ahhh"

2009-03-29T19:46:00.003-04:00

Totally funny story....
I had the refrigerator open and was putting things away when Kennedy comes up and points and says "Some Ahh". I was trying to hard to think what that could be...we're learning to decipher her language as she seems to have her own words for EVERYTHING in sight! :)
I pointed to a few things in the fridge only to hear "NO MOMMY....AHHH"...
I FINALLY put 2 and 2 together and realized what she wanted.

We have a spray can of Fat free cool whip and I have to say that sometimes Jon and I will spray it directly from the can into our mouths. :) Well a couple of cans ago, Kennedy caught us....so we let her try. We told her to say "AHH" - and open her mouth and we squirted it into her mouth....
HAHA....
so...she thought it was called "AHH".....

I love having a 2 year old...laughs every day!

Questions....

2009-03-27T13:57:00.002-04:00

When you become a mother...or I'll say a parent....
There are some MAJOR new questions and unanswered things that come into your life.
Besides all the OBVIOUS things such as:

1) How to effectively change a diaper without getting sprinkled on?
2) How hot should the bath water be?
3) Is my baby getting enough food?

There are some questions better left unsaid. NO one gives you advice on THESE topics like they do on EVERYTHING else (even when you don't want it)....but these are the questions you'd almost welcome the answers too! I think I have it figured out though...after 2 1/2 years of being a mom...and the reason they don't advise you ... is because they don't know themselves! ha!

Here are some examples:

1) When a child comes running up to you at the park and asks you to push her in the swing...what do you do?
a: Pick her up and put her in the swing and start pushing...we're all here to have fun!
b: Quickly Scan the park for her mom to smile and nod.
c: Ignore her and hope she'll go away!

2) When a child is doing something that you don't allow your kids to do...such as go UP the slide - instead of down but the other mom that you're with is letting her child do it. Do you:
a: Call your child out telling them you don't allow that - and make the other mom feel like a schmuck and putting yourself in an awkward position?
b: Try to get them to play on something else - vowing to tell your child LATER that this is unacceptable behavior
c: Let them play on the slide going UP...what's it REALLY going to hurt...you're the ONLY 2 people on the playground!

3) When a friend offers to watch your children - but doesn't have any of her own that you can "swap out" with....do you:
a: Pay them...they are giving up their time and driving to your house..you owe them and everyone is looking for extra cash these days!
b: Thank them for their generosity over and over...afterall - you've been waiting a LONG time to be able to have a date with your significant other...but risk them being mad and expecting payment.
c: Flip them a gift card...$15 will do - it's the thought that counts.

4) You have someone you know who does a service such as party planning, massaging or pet grooming. He/She wants to do a party, give you a massage or groom your pet for you. You have NO IDEA how much this person charges - and they are kind of weird about people asking. Do you:

a: Risk it! Get the service done and pay for it later! After all- you are supporting your friends business!
b: Don't ask - don't tell! He/she will never know you got massaged somewhere else...and maybe they won't notice your pet with their shiny new well groomed coat!
c: Grin and bear it....ask them how much they charge! - after all - you're getting a service done - you're entitled to know!

5) Someone invites your child over to play or sleep over by themselves. Are you:
a: OBLIGATED to invite their child over for a play date or sleepover...after all - you don't want to be THAT parent who is ALWAYS dropping their kids off
b: Thank them so much for inviting he/she over, but decline knowing you can't possibly return the favor
c: Let them go - and thank the parent - and walk away - nothing owed.

Those are just 5 I can think of off the top of my head! I'm SUPER curious! Hopefully some of you "More seasoned" parents can answer some of these for me!!!! HAHA! Every day is a new time for learning!!!

Thankful

2009-03-27T08:37:00.004-04:00

I am so thankful for Jon in my life. I just had to write about it! :) He is a gift from God. Every hole in my life or place I am lacking...he fills in personality, help, and talent. I am so blessed that he is such a wonderful husband and father. Most times - he is a slob....I have to say...
but this past week...he could tell I had HAD it with the house being a mess...and cleaning up the same stuff over and over. Some of the household projects had gone unfinished...and were causing a big nuisance and some danger. After his hard days at work...he came home and silently finished them. He didn't draw attention to the fact that he was doing all of these things...he just did them. To me - this is a HUGE gift. More precious than jewelry or gadgets. He let me find the things that he had done - instead of drawing attention to them. One of them was our bathtub. We would stand in 6 inches (deep) of water every time we took a shower. It was gross! This left a VERY messy tub when it all finally drained. He took the whole thing apart - and had to buy all this stuff - and had it cleaned. Not ONLY did he unclog it - but he scrubbed it with bleach to clean the tub! I would NEVER have expected that! When he was done - he drew me a hot bath in my clean tub...complete with candles and wine and bubbles. It was sooo nice! Last night, he sat on the floor and sang ABBA songs at the top of his lungs with me. I'm SURE he would have rather turned on the games...but he knew that he would lose me if he did. (As in - I would zone out)... :) We had sooo much fun together - and I am SOOO thankful that he is "uncool" enough to be doing that with me!!! (We're both huge dorks secretly...and I LOVE that about us!) Anyway - just wanted to share with the world....(Who already KNOW what a great guy I have) ...how thankful I am!!!

Jaxen is sick

2009-03-27T08:08:00.002-04:00

Poor little guy. He has croup and a double ear infection....again! Also - he is just getting over conjunctivitis! EW! He's a trooper...and rarely fusses or cries. His ear infections have been pretty severe each time - so the Dr. told us that if he gets another one between now and September....(which is highly likely due to his track record)...that he will have tubes put in before the Fall.
Through it all - he is a smiley baby - who is into EVERYTHING and sooo much fun! Kennedy - (Thankfully) has remained healthy this go 'round.

Looking forward to our weekend!

BUSY WEEK

2009-03-24T17:24:00.008-04:00

We had a great week last week! Kennedy's friend Kelsey was here! She was a big help with Jaxen! We did a ton of fun stuff while she was here. On Monday, I
took the kids to Sports Connection and we played in the arcade. All the machines take these cards that you swipe - instead of tokens. Well - we are fortunate because I was able to give Kennedy an old "Kroger" (grocery store in WV) card - and she swiped away - and didn't cost me a dime! ;) Wonder how much longer I can pull this on her before she realizes my trick?!? :)

Tuesday Jon worked from home and we all went to the park. It was a beautiful day! My friend Tracey happened to be there with her 2 kids - so it was a great time to catch up with her! :) It was also St. Patricks day - so we made green mashed potatoes and green frosted cookies. Also - my sister flew in! We had a great time!!! I am so honored that she would want to spend her week of Spring Break with her big sister!!! :) I am realizing how important family is the older I get. Friendships come and go - while a very select few are there forever - some are just put there for a certain season in your life. There is nothing like the relationship you have with your siblings!!! I am so blessed!!! I'm thankful we are close at heart - even though we are far in distance!!!

Wednesday - Jaxen woke up with Conjuctivitis. EW! We took him to the Dr. and got him some drops - and then washed our hands every 2 minutes!! :) No one else got it - thankfully! I took the kids to Ray's Splash Planet which is a giant indoor waterpark. VERY fun!!!

Thursday was spent in the car...which was all good until we hit rush hour coming back to Charlotte! :(

Friday we all went out with friends. We had a babysitter for the kids - and went to watch the games at Cans. It was fun - but we were so exhausted both mentally and physically - that it ended up being a pretty chill night. It was nice to get out of the house - but I think I would have enjoyed taking a big nap instead! ha! Still - the company was most excellent!!!

Saturday was spent rounding up things for Sunday - and taking my sister to IKEA. It was a fun! The kids got a new table - which they LOVE! We're trying to decide what color to paint it!! :)

Sunday was a GREAT day! We were able to celebrate our churches 2nd birthday!!! It was SUCH a great service. I was overwhelmed with gratitude for God leading us to this ministry! Watching videos of how God has changed some of our people from the inside out was incredible! Story after story of life transformations! Then a slide show of what our church has been a part of in the community serving others! SOO neat! We had a great meal catered by Moes (similar to Chipotle) complete with trivia, raffles and a fiesta theme! After the meal - we were able to be a part of the Baptism service. Since we don't have a building - we went to a complex center in South Carolina. My heart was COMPLETELY full as I watched these individuals share their life stories! I was completely blessed to be a part of it!! After the baptisms - the kids were able to play in the pool....I told Kennedy she could put her toes in...but then another one of her parents (who shall remain nameless) let her get all the way in...(ha) Good thing God made DADDY's!
Next time we will know to bring a suit! :)

We have 2 dogs!!!!!

2009-03-24T17:22:00.003-04:00

haha...now I know what you are thinking....and let me just say (before my brother goes crazy on me) that they are NOT ours. :) We are dog sitting for our friends while they are in Disney.

Kennedy is LOVING them here. She calls the bigger one "Mommie"...and the little one "Baby puppy"....their real names are Rosie and Cash. :)

On Monday - we were contemplating getting a rescue dog...because even Jon was falling in love...and with them being housebroken...it just seemed so much easier!!! BUT...then I went to start cleaning my house...and I have HAIR everywhere....ewwwwwwwww!!!

So - no dogs for THIS Sawhook family! :)

In case you were wondering...

2009-03-10T21:07:00.002-04:00

Jon and I are total opposites. Good thing opposites attract! :) We had fun taking this and reading about each other! Hopefully this will help us understand where we each come from!
We took a Meyers Briggs personality test and scored EXACT opposite sides of each scale! Here's what we found out! Guess which one is which! ;)

About the ENFP

"They can't bear to miss out on what is going on around them; they must experience, first hand, all the significant social events that affect our lives."

"ENFPs are warm, enthusiastic people, typically very bright and full of potential. They live in the world of possibilities, and can become very passionate and excited about things. Their enthusiasm lends them the ability to inspire and motivate others, more so than we see in other types. They can talk their way in or out of anything. They love life, seeing it as a special gift, and strive to make the most out of it."

"Friends are what life is about to ENFPs. They hold up their end of the relationship, sometimes being victimized by less caring individuals. ENFPs are energized by being around people. Some have real difficulty being alone, especially on a regular basis."

"outgoing, social, disorganized, easily talked into doing silly things, spontaneous, wild and crazy, acts without thinking..."

"ENFPs are energetic and enthusiastic leaders who are likely to take charge when a new endeavor needs a visionary spokesperson. ENFPs are values-oriented people who become champions of causes and services relating to human needs and dreams. Their leadership style is one of soliciting and recognizing others' contributions and of evaluating the personal needs of their followers. ENFPs are often charismatic leaders who are able to help people see the possibilities beyond themselves and their current realities. They function as catalysts."

"Ranked 1st of all 16 types in using social and emotional coping resources and 2nd in using cognitive resources. "

GOOD JOBS FOR ENFP:
ACTOR
BANKER
CONFERENCE PLANNER
COUNSELOR
CHURCH WORKER
DESIGNER
HOMEMAKER
MARKETER
MUSICIAN
PUBLIC RELATIONS
SOCIAL WORKER
WRITER

About the ISTJ

"ISTJs are often called inspectors. They have a keen sense of right and wrong, especially in their area of interest and/or responsibility. They are noted for devotion to duty. Punctuality is a watchword of the ISTJ. The secretary, clerk, or business(wo)man by whom others set their clocks is likely to be an ISTJ."

"ISTJs are very loyal, faithful, and dependable. They place great importance on honesty and integrity. They are "good citizens" who can be depended on to do the right thing for their families and communities. While they generally take things very seriously, they also usually have an offbeat sense of humor and can be a lot of fun - especially at family or work-related gatherings."

"...characterized by decisiveness in practical affairs, are the guardians of institutions, and if only one adjective could be selected, "super dependable" would best describe them."

"...private, does not appreciate strangeness, not adventurous, not spontaneous, follows the rules..."

"At work, ISTJs get things done on a timely basis. They honor deadlines, and they believe in thoroughness. A half-finished job is not a job well done. They established procedures and schedules, and are uncomfortable with those who do not do the same. ISTJs put duty before pleasure. As long as they can fulfill their responsibilities, they feel useful and thereby satisfied. Their work does not have to be fun, but it has to count toward something productive. ISTJs believe that vacations are something that one takes only when work has been accomplished; thus, at times they do not take vacations even when they could and should."

GOOD JOBS FOR ISTJ:
ACCOUNTANT
COMPUTER PROGRAMMER
COMPUTER SPECIALIST
DOCTOR
ELECTRICIAN
FINANCIAL OFFICER
MECHANICAL ENGINEER
MILITARY LEADER (yikes!)
SYSTEMS ANALYST
TECHNICAL SPECIALIST

Crazy Story

2009-03-09T09:09:00.002-04:00

To me - the following is a CRAZY story about how God really does direct our paths. We still have free-will and choice in matters - but ULTIMATELY His hand guides our steps.

We helped our friend Miranda move this weekend...and when she gave us the address to her "old" house - it was Slate Ridge Road. Hmmm...that sure sounded familiar. I asked her if there had been a house for sale on that road a while back and she had said there was....
Well - when we got there...we figured out that it was one of the two houses we wanted to buy in August when we moved here.

Jon and I had debated over this house and the one we have now - for 2 weeks! We couldn't decide because of the commute...but this house was PERFECT...it had a brand new kitchen and it was white with black shutters....super cute. ANYWAY...when we went to put an offer on the house - it was approx. 11am...and someone had beaten us to it by 2 hours. (The house was on the market forever). We took it as a "sign" and bought the house we have now.

To me - this was God's hand directing us to Crosspoint...
Our neighborhood is literally right in front of where we meet...and I felt that we wouldn't have found it had we not gone to see where Kennedy's school would be - and not attended the garage sales in our neighborhood. We would have never met the Alteri's who steered us to Crosspoint - etc. etc. So - I was just praising God in my mind - over shutting that door - so that we could be a part of a great ministry.

Miranda THEN pointed out - that how SHE interpreted the story was that no matter where we would have bought...God would have led us to Crosspoint. She was right across the street - the house she lived in was full of kids ... we were bound to meet her and she would have definiately told us of Crosspoint.

Either way - I think it's an AWESOME story - and confirmation that we are where we are supposed to be....
our prayer was that we would be placed in a neighborhood where we could most effectively be used....and so far - that has come to fruition.

Weekend Update

2009-03-09T08:50:00.004-04:00

This was possibly the busiest weekend we've had in a long time!
Friday night was ladies night out for Crosspoint girls at On the Border. We had a really good time and got to know some people on a different level than just saying "Hi" - as we pass in the hall at church. It was lots of fun!
After that - Stef and Miranda and I went back to Miranda's new house and painted her room. The color is beautiful and the house is SOO cute! I invision some evenings this summer on the front porch sipping on something and having a nice chat! :)
Saturday we woke up and took family pictures.
They turned out very nice in spite of a certain 2 year old who was determined not to smile. UGH!
You can't MAKE someone smile! I can make my children do a lot of things - but smiling is NOT one of them! :) So - we resorted to bribery...that didn't get us too far either. BUT...there were some diamonds in the rough...here's a small sample...

After the pictures, we drove back home and I started cooking lunch for 17 young men! Our old pastor at River Ridge also teaches Tennis at UC in Charleston. They had a match at Queens college and stopped here for lunch. I made 5 boxes of pasta with pesto sauce, alfredo sauce and marinara sauce. We also had huge pieces of cheese bread, 4 bags of ceasar salad, a garden salad, chocolate chip cookies and tons of sweet tea. Let me just tell you - they ate it ALL! HAHA! I forgot how much 'boys' can eat! WOW! They were all super polite and gracious - but by the end...we were EXHAUSTED! Oh...and here's a "Matt" for you...(Love you Matt). When he shows up at my door - he says "Oh by the way...the boys are going to want to shower!"....
UM...do I even have 17 towels!? haha....
Once the tennis team took off for Hilton Head, we packed up the family and headed over to Miranda's to help her start moving....I finished painting - while my strapping young man of a husband helped with the heavy stuff. We got a ton done - and Logan's room painted as well! It was lots of fun - and we were so glad to be able to help!
Sundays are always busy in this house. I, of course, work...and Jon was serving in the kids area as well this week. We were busy with set up and tear down and all that happens between...and then went back to Miranda's late afternoon to finish up. Fun times were had by all...Stef and Scott were there and Alan and Jamie...we barely did ANYTHING...but we had fun hanging out in Mir's new place! Our night cap was none other than Donato's pizza...can't go wrong there! :) We had a great weekend of being with friends and helping others. It felt GREAT!

Ministry and stuff

2009-03-04T07:26:00.004-05:00

I am about to give up every hope and dream I have ever had regarding music. I just don't think it's the path I'm supposed to take. I have never desired to be a huge recording artist - or be famous or anything of that nature, but I feel like doors have been slammed in my face for about 9 years now - and I honestly can't take it any longer.

Of course college was great. My entire 2nd year was spent touring the country and Kenya singing and working with teens. It was AMAZING and so much fun!!!

I went through a very unique situation in DC. One where EVERYTHING was starting to happen for me. I was working on 7-8 CD projects - leading worship - and doing background vocals for a really neat guy in the area. It was an amazing time. I was able to open for Mark Shultz and Shane and Shane. I've sang with many "greats" like Marty McCall, Alicia Williamson Garcia, and Larnell Harris. I've been on stage with people like Kay Arthur, and James Dobson. It was an amazing sweet time in my life. Being a part of ministries like those was a once in a lifetime chance for me. Unfortunately I witnessed pride getting in the way of people's hearts. I started to see how many musicians in general lost sight of who they were singing too and what they were "performing" for...and that is to give God glory and to lead OTHERS to Christ! It started becoming who they knew in town and what they could accomplish. Unfortunately, it is a sick industry. Right then and there - I vowed never to let my pride get ahold of me. I would rather be singing in a church choir with a "right" heart and attitude, then to be big and famous and have a heart full of selfish ambition. I prayed this to God every day. Every time I got on stage - I would beg God to prepare my heart in this way...I still do.

Well - next comes West Virginia...no secret to all...this was a dark time in my life. First of all, I was put into a church whose worship leader publically humiliated me by asking me to "prove" that I was really a Christian. UM...what do you say to that? It was the worst worship attempt I have ever been a part of. We soon left that church and found another one. It was a LOT better! It was a neat time where I started learning to play and experiment with keys. However, week after week I left disappointed and empty. I had gone from being SUPER involved - to being allowed to do nothing. My entire spiritual growth was stunted for 3 years and constantly felt ashamed that I was a woman and therefore unable to do anything but sing back up. I prayed and prayed that my heart would stop longing for more and that I could be satisfied in what I thought God had obviously called me to do...stand to the side and make whoever was leading look good and sound good!!! I learned to be OK with that! That's what it seems my role in being a woman is all about! RIGHT? WRONG! I have scars that run very deep from that State...I could write a book - and maybe someday I will. Jon and I have never experienced treatment like we did there....and I hope we never have to again. Good news is that it made us stronger.

We have come here and felt love like NO other. Even though we are "churched" individals, we were in desperate need of love and attention. Jon and I were on the verge of calling it quits with any kind of ministry b/c we felt like we had nothing left to give. We were only in survival mode. When you are completly empty how can you turn around and serve? Within the first few months, the amazing people at Crosspoint have loved on us and accepted us. We have found out that we aren't weird (ha - it's all relative) and that serving others and loving on others is the way to be filled!! Jon and I have had more opportunity here in 6 months to talk to others about our faith and why we live the way we do - then in the rest of our lives combined. We prayed that God would give us a big house that we could use for reaching others and ministering to others. Many people did not understand why we "needed" such a big house. We have heard so many backhanded slams on why we would be "frivolous" in spendng...even though no one knows our situation and how we got this house! It wasn't a need - but a desire to be used. We had a great example of this in our friends Chad and Sarah in WV. We wanted that! God gave it to us - and now our house is always full of people! Tonight we have 15 adults and 9 kids coming over for small group! This BLESSES my heart! I also have 5 friends total coming in and out of here today...that is more than I could ask for!!
I have recently started on staff as the Children's Ministry Director. I didn't have a love and passion for this when I first sought it out. But - I knew my personality - and I KNEW I could develop it FAST! It has been 5 weeks - and I'm wondering how I ever lived without this before?! I absolutely love it. I ALREADY love those kids - and desire not only to minister to them, but to their parents and families. It has made me a better mom and wife. You can agree to disagree - but I am made and created like this...and when I am using the gifts and abilities God has given me - why wouldn't I flourish in that?
All this to say - that I don't think I am wired to be a musician. It hurts my heart too much. I constantly feel inadequate and unusable. I forever feel that I'm not good enough - no matter how prepared my heart and voice are. Perhaps these other things have come into my life so that I will close that door behind me - and move on through another walk-way!? I asked God to keep me humble and to keep me as a "choir" singer if that's what it took to keep my heart in check...and He has granted me that and given me a ton in return!! How can I not be thankful?

My Dance

2009-03-04T07:19:00.002-05:00

Most of you know that my husband is a WONDERFUL dancer! He is Mr. Rhythm and can move like anybody's business. Yesterday was a horrible day for me. I was suffering from a crushed spirit - and because of it - I couldn't stop crying!! My poor contacts were so salty - they had to be thrown out. :) HA!

When Jon came home, he picked me up in his arms and put on Michael Buble'. He danced me around and let me cry on his shoulder. I seriously had butterflies again...just like the first night we met. I was completely lost in the moment until...

Our 2 year old daughter came up and said "DADDY...MY DANCE"....(ahh!) She grabbed onto his leg and started trying to move...she looked like a freako - but it was SOOO funny and so cute! Jon and I's hearts MELTED right there...and the tears came back! That is a sweet moment that I never want to forget. I hope Kennedy grows up always wanting to dance with her Daddy.

F3

2009-02-26T07:55:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a WONDERFUL day for us!!! Kennedy was back to herself for the most part - and just happy to be up and playing! We did puzzles, colored, took a walk, and cleaned the house up. I had plans to go shopping for Kids' Ministry Stuff that night - so I wanted to be sure to give Kennedy and Jaxen their baths before Jon got home so he wasn't stuck doing it. I did Kennedy first. I usually let Jaxen sit on the bathroom floor and Kennedy will interact with him while I put laundry away or make beds. Well - next thing I know, Kennedy is crying..."MOMMY ALL DONE"..."ALL DONE MOMMY!" Confused (because she LOVES the bath), I ran in there...and saw why. We had a little bit of what I like to call "F3". Final Faeces Farewell. Yes...Kennedy had pooped in the tub. Now I'm sure most of you can relate at some time or another - one of your children' probably did this...however...Please keep in mind that Kennedy had been sick. I will stop there and say it was a mess. :) Poor thing was humiliated.

As I was cleaning up and hosing her down...a distant memory popped in my head. I had obviously pushed this FAR back - b/c I haven't thought about it in years. But I have a feeling my Aunt Linda (whose reading this) will remember VERY clearly when her favorite niece (Ok favorite one in NC)...may have had an accident in their pool!!! (A large horse tank we used to swim in) HAHAHAHAHA!!!!! I think I will push that memory right back where it came from!! :)

Day 4

2009-02-23T17:43:00.002-05:00

Well - we are officially on DAY 4 of The stomach flu. I seriously don't understand this whole illness...or the point of it. It might actually be my VERY first question to God when I get to Heaven! Kennedy had a spurt of energy yesterday (Sunday) morning...but quickly returned to her lethargic state. She has been sitting and laying ALL day (Sunday and Monday). Sunday night we tried to get her out for some fresh air...we took her to Toys R Us. Who wouldn't be excited? She tried to enjoy - but after about 20 minutes - had to be carried b/c she was too weak...
Today she has eaten the following:
- 2 tortilla chips (with a tiny bit of Guacamole on them)
- 2 noodles
- 1 bite of Fruit Loops.

Then the diarrhea set in. NICE right? Come on!!!!

Poor Baby

2009-02-21T15:30:00.003-05:00

This is about the extent of our weekend...since Thursday....
NO FUN! Kennedy has been switching from my lap to Jon's - and back
100 times. Poor baby still has a fever and no appetite. Jon and I are holding on for dear life and begging God to spare us from getting this...please join us!
Poor Jaxen has been on the floor playing by himself the majority of the time.
Good thing he's such a trooper!

Top Ten List....things to report

2009-02-20T09:22:00.002-05:00

1) Jaxen has 2 teeth on the bottom and is working on his 3rd
2) Jaxen is crawling now...he will definitely army crawl - but he also does some scoots on his knees
3) Kennedy has the stomach flu - and is miserable...which makes me miserable! :(
4) Kennedy cheers whenever we pull into her "school" parking lot.
5) Jon is an amazing husband...he helped clean up the debris from #3...
6) This is not how we wanted to spend our weekend! ha-ha!
7) I am LOVING my new job!!!
8) I get the best of both worlds (in my opinion) by working 15 hours a week and being home the rest of the time
9) We miss our families and friends (which includes you!)
10) I heart North Carolina

Valentines Day

2009-02-14T21:59:00.003-05:00

So - I've been really bad at blogging. I seem to go in spurts! Life has been a little bit of an adjustment. I started my new job and seem to be running from place to place for meetings and dropping off kids...Dr's appointments and play dates! It's been a GREAT couple of weeks!!

I may have to go back and write some more about this - but for tonight- I will just do Valentines Day. :)

We woke up this morning and opened our Valentines. Momom and Papap sent presents for Kennedy and Jaxen - so they opened those and money from Aunt Lisa....then Valentines from us. It was fun. When I told Kennedy she had presents to open - she looked in our living room where our Christmas Tree used to be...and said - "Pesents go Bye bye"...I thought it was funny that she associated the two together.

We spent the entire day in our PJ's - ate pink cupcakes for breakfast and then all took a nap together this afternoon. When we woke up - Jon and I went out for dinner. We found the GREATEST little Mexican restaurant! It's a new favorite!!
We came home in time to put the kids to bed. It was a great day.

Life Lessons

2009-02-12T08:02:00.003-05:00

Last week, Jon had a business trip in NYC...so the kids and I took out for Charleston, WV. It's about a 4 1/2 hour drive, which isn't bad. :) I had plans to meet with my friend Laura, who is the Family Ministry Director at our old church, River Ridge. She graciously invited me to come and sit at her feet as she showered me with knowledge of what is now my new job at Crosspoint! The trip was a little insane...have to say. First of all...I decided to take off after Kennedy's preschool...which ends at 1. Logically, I was thinking that it would be a perfect time since she usually naps at 1 anyway. I thought for sure I would have a good 2 hours of silence as her and Jax slept.

Lesson #1: Never trust in Logic with a 2 year old. She cried and screamed for 2 hours...straight. She wanted to go home to her bed and go night night. She wanted Daddy. She wanted me to "Hold You". She wanted Juice and snacks - and threw everything down - and wanted it again. NO FUN!!! I was just about to run off the road to relieve myself of the anxiety of shrills coming from the back seat - when I remembered I had some M&M's in my purse!!!

Lesson #2: Bribery is sometimes your only option for survival. After the 2 hour mark, with Kennedy dripping milk chocolate from her mouth...I learned

Lesson #3: M&M's not ONLY melt in your mouth..but ALSO in your hands. :) I debated stopping - but the thought of pulling 2 kids out - unpacking the double stroller and taking turns on the nasty bathroom changing table...I decided against it. Both of my kids are in diapers at this point...

Lesson #4: NO STOPPING...diapers can hold an EXCESSIVE amount of liquid when put to the test! By the way...I have one child in Pampers and one in Huggies...both stood up to the test. By about 3 1/2 hours into the trip - I was starting to see signs for Charleston. We had rolled through Beckley - and were less than 60 miles away from the promised land. About that time - Jaxen starts crying. There is no way I'm stopping at this point. Now - all of you judging types may want to skip the next few lines. I knew Jax needed a bottle - but there was no way I was pulling over to get warm water. Jaxen is pretty laid back...so I decided that he would be ok with the following...

Lesson #5: Leftover Diet Dr. Pepper melted Ice and leftover Apple juice mixed with formula - make for a convenient bottle in desperate times.
After finally arriving in Charleston - I was set to meet my friend Ivy for dinner. We went to our usual spot - Rio - best Mexican restaurant hands down. Let me just say that my kids are now - 4 1/2 hours in the car - no stops - no diaper changes - no nap for Kennedy - and here we are arriving at a restaurant. Anyone else smell trouble?
It has started to sprinkle - so I was rushing to get my kids in the door. I didn't take the stroller b/c I knew there wouldn't be a place to park it.

Lesson #6: Do NOT attempt to take a 2 year old and an 8 month old into any public place by yourself without your double stroller. We sat down in our booth - I changed both of their diapers - and we ordered our food. About that time - the giddiness set in. Kennedy was ROTTEN. She was completely OUT OF CONTROL. She and another little girl behind us in the booth were playing and screaming and laughing SOO loud. I tried to get her to sit down - but I really needed the other mom to call her daughter down as well. The little girl started hitting Kennedy...playfully...so Kennedy started hitting back...playfully...meanwhile - I'm trying to feed my starving baby with one hand and wrestle my daughter with the other...forget eating my food. It was completely out of control. I could honestly take 2 more paragraphs to tell you how bad each little situation was - but lets just end the madness by saying I had to eventually take Jaxen out of the restaurant and buckle him in the car....then go BACK into the restaurant where my 2 year old was underneath the booth hiding while they were trying to seat another customer. I had to take her over my shoulder and carry her out kicking and screaming. Once into the car - they both started wailing. It was awful. I was bawling too.

Lesson #7: If you can't "beat 'em...Join 'em". I called my friend Tina and she insisted that we come over immediately. I walked into her house and TJ took Kennedy and Tina grabbed Jaxen. I couldn't have been happier to see them. We all had a pretty sleepless night...complete with Kennedy falling out of bed 2 times...and Jaxen snoring like a crazy old man....but it was as close to being home as we could have gotten!!! ;)
The next day was GREAT!!!! Laura had arranged the entire day with babysitters and lunch plans - and everything. It was a nice time to catch up on life and learn about Children's ministry! I left with TONS of information swimming around in my head....tons of ideas that I can't wait to implement...and visions for a bright future at Crosspoint. It was also so fun to see our kids playing together. Laura took some great shots....

Lesson #8: Seeing friends makes even the worst of situations seem ok!

Random thoughts and pictures

2009-02-04T08:40:00.004-05:00

Kennedy loves to help me clean...in fact - she will BAWL her eyes out if I DON'T let her! I say..."Start 'em young!"

Today was my first meeting for my new job. Kennedy and Jaxen had to go to preschool today. Kennedy was SOOO excited to go to "Kool"...She had a new DORA back pack and was sooo excited! I told Jon that she didn't even know what "Kool" was...they could be cutting off her right limb and she wouldn't know - she was just excited!! She was so excited, in fact, that we had to leave 25 minutes early and just drive around!!
She had a great day. Drop off was a little traumatic - and I forgot her lunch...poor thing. They made her a grilled cheese and gave her some pretzels and fruit! She was a happy camper!! She looked sooo grown up!

One more funny thing that happened today is that the elastic in Kennedy's BRAND NEW pants came out. She REFUSED to let me change her pants b/c she loves them. (They have tiny flowers on them) So - this is how she ran around from about 4pm - 7:30pm...

SUPERBOWL

2009-02-02T09:35:00.002-05:00

We had a great night with great friends! We had a Crosspoint Band/Neighborhood party! It was great fun!! We had 23 people here...and a great time of food and football! The best part for me was the special "Office" episode at the end of the game!!! :)

Mittens

2009-01-29T23:13:00.002-05:00

Since we had no snow...Kennedy found a new use for my mittens...she did this on her own. I laughed my head off.

Walkin' on Sunshine....

2009-01-29T21:34:00.005-05:00

We were SOOO happy to see the sun today....since we weren't pleasured with any snow or ice! It had been awhile...and all it was here was GLOOMY!!!
It was so nice today - that we were able to play out in the yard! The sun seemed to help all moods in this household!! :) Kennedy was hilarious today - and Jaxen seemed less fussy...I also seemed to have more patience...hmm...

And our new fence....

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-28T19:12:00.001-05:00

Girls Weekend

2009-01-27T20:40:00.010-05:00

I had SUCH a great weekend!!! It was my friend Danielle's 30th birthday party!! She and I have been super close for about 9 1/2 years now - so being able to celebrate with her was amazing!! We chose the city of New York as our destination. Danielle has always aspired to live there...and loves to visit!! I flew out on Thursday (after a sad goodbye to my mom and dad, kids and Jon)...and flew into Baltimore. Danielle picked me up at the airport and we headed for her parents house in New Jersey. We belted along with Celine Dion and Jodee Messina, had tons of girl talk and God talk and laughter!! The road trip was one of the best parts!! The weekend only got better. I was able to spend some time with her family, who I am super close to as well! We visited both of her sisters and hung out with her parents the whole day. We had pizza, saw the beach, and had coffee!

Friday night some of the other girls arrived in New Jersey. We had a slumber party at her parents house - and then left the next morning for NYC in 3 cars!! Talk about difficulty in staying together!! :) Amazingly enough - we made it in! We had to make a lunch stop for nothing other than PIZZA! You can't go to NYC without it!

Next - we hurried to the Theater District to see Mamma Mia on broadway! It was INCREDIBLE! I am a HUGE fan of the movie - and love Meryl Streep in it...so I wasn't sure how I would take to the show...but it was fantastic! I don't think I sat back in my seat once...I laughed, cried, sang along and danced. It was amazing!

After the theater - we went for a long walk...did some shopping - and saw the restaurant Serendipity...where the movie was filmed. We walked by Central park and saw the carriages and ice skaters...and pretty much just froze our butts off!!

For dinner - we ate at a restaurant by the name of "Becco". The head chef is William Gallagher. You may have seen him on the Today Show or Good Morning America. It was wonderful!!!

To top the night off...we hit the nightlife of NYC. We headed down to the Village - and went to a club called "Hotel on Revington". It was sooo nice - and so exclusive. It was a little hard to get in...but when 7 girls showed up - all decked out - how could they say "No"?

On top of ALL the fun we had - I got to see one of my best friends since the 4th grade...Holly. She is living in the city now - and it was SOOO fun to see her! I ended up staying the night with her - instead of at the $500 Hilton in Times Square...but it was worth it to be able to catch up!!

Hats off to my WONDERFUL husband - who stayed home with our children - and encouraged me to take this weekend guilt free! He is an amazing man...I'm sooo blessed!!!!

Fun with "Mom" and Papop

2009-01-22T08:12:00.004-05:00

We have had SUCH a great week with my parents! It makes me feel like my life is "complete" when they are here. It's like the one thing in the back of my head that I'm missing is them. :( Sure wish they would move here!! (We're working on it!)
By the end of the week Kennedy is now calling my Mom...MOM. :) She will say -
"Gook MOM"...(Look Grandma). I think it's because she has heard me say it all weekend! Haha! At first I thought she was calling ME Mom...but we soon realized that it was actually Grandma! haha...sooo funny! Here are some pictures...

New lipgloss

2009-01-20T09:15:00.002-05:00

Kennedy got invited to a princess birthday party in a few weeks for her little friend Julianna. With the invitation she got a little lip gloss...I think we're going to have to have a makeover informational session...

Kitchen Complete!

2009-01-20T08:59:00.005-05:00

Mom and Dad got here on Saturday! We've been having a GREAT time...but we DID put Dad to work! :) He installed the last part of our 4 phase project in the kitchen. It looks BEAUTIFUL!!! Here's some before and after pictures!

Sometimes these things still hurt

2009-01-14T10:13:00.001-05:00

This was written by my cousin Emily....I wanted to share with some readers who follow my blog because I think it is such an important message to share!!

I was reading an article this morning about a discovery about what may trigger Autism. In this article they interview a scientist about this discovery. Here is part of his quote

"But doctors say that now is the time to start debating if having a prenatal test for autism would be desirable, even if it was scientifically possible. "There is a test for Down's syndrome and that is legal and parents exercise their right to choose termination, but autism is often linked with talent. It is a different kind of condition," said lead researcher Professor Simon Baron-Cohen in The Guardian."

He later adds

"What would we lose if children with autistic spectrum disorder were eliminated from the population?" he asked.

At first I read this and was instantly angered. How dare this man make an assumption on who deserves life and who doesn't. We should save kids with Autism because they generally have a unique talent, unlike Down Syndrome (he says)? So in his mind, he had no question to parents aborting their babies with Down Syndrome because they are apparently talentless....they perhaps won't contribute enough to society to let them live.

Then however, my anger subsided to pure sadness. I know and understand that in this fallen world we live in, there are many people that think that Logan shouldn't be here, many people have said (and yes some to my face) that allowing him to be born was us mooching off the government and I quote of the man who said this in my earshot "All those retards are good for are cleaning up my mess and mowing my lawn". I get that people think that way. While it hurts to hear those words, I understand we live in a fallen world with fallen people. Most of the time I can let those comments roll off my back and just let it go. But every once in a while I will come across an article like this one and it still just 'gets me'. I wish everyone knew the joy Logan gives us, I wish I could shout from the rooftops that our lives aren't miserable because he's here. While he might not ever do anything that society deems as 'good enough to have a right to life', that is not my goal for him. My goal for him is the same as my other boys, to grow to be a Man of God. God can and will use Logan in mighty ways, they may be small quiet ways, but while Logan is here in earth, God will use him for his glory. While I know those types of articles won't ever pop up on Google or Yahoo, it would be nice to sometimes see the secular world show Down Syndrome in a positive light.

Anyway, I'll step off my soapbox now. I am forever thankful for our family, friends, and church family who have accepted Logan for who God created him to be. They see his uniqueness and love him all the more for it. They know that God will use and already has used Logan in mighty ways, all for the Glory of God.
Posted by Emily V at 11:17 AM
5 comments:
Audrey said...
Ugh, that gets to me too. I work with a girl that has an Autism Spectrum disorder, and I LOVE her. She genuinely brings a smile to my face everyday at school, and acts as though she doesn't have a care in the world.

She is still young enough that she doesn't realize that her peers sometimes make fun of her, and I dread the day that she starts understanding. We try to explain to them while they are young that she is just as much part of the class as anybody else, and nobody likes to be laughed at.

And we love Logan too! I missed seeing him at Christmas!

January 13, 2009 1:46 PM
Anonymous said...
This breaks my heart at so many levels. It's hard for me to think about MY "baby" having to hear these things about her child. It's hard for me to think about my grandchildren having to hear these things about their sibling. It's hard to think about Logan growing up in a society that thinks he has no worth as a human being. I do know that you and Todd are doing an amazing job not only with Logan, but also with Zach and Aiden to help them know how to respond. You all are amazing! And we love you all to pieces.

January 13, 2009 2:56 PM
Logan's Great Uncle Brian said...
It really boils down to what you believe about God doesn't it? He is either sovereign or He is not. To believe the latter is no belief at all.
Unfortunately too many people profess to know God but have no trust in Him that He is in total control of absolutely every event that occurs. Logan is fearfully and wonderfully made.
It just occurred to me that Logan will probably never make fun of anyone, will never judge anyone, and will probably never question God for creating him just as he is.
Hmmm...who's better off?
We can all learn more about God by watching His handiwork with this little guy.

January 13, 2009 7:29 PM
thesawhooks said...
You said Logan "Can and Will" be used of God...but he is already!! Look how many lives he touches now...and he's only 3!!! We are ALL blessed in sharing in Logan's life!!! You're right....the anger went to immediate sadness!

January 14, 2009 4:55 AM
Emily V said...
Thanks guys! All your comments really mean a lot! I praise God daily for being totally sovereign.

Anniversary

2009-01-14T08:07:00.002-05:00

Jon and I started off our day with 2 crying kids in our bed this morning!
How appropriate! :)

UPS Delivery

2009-01-13T12:53:00.002-05:00

Today the UPS guy came to deliver 20 35lb. packages to our house. Usually when we see a UPS truck - we say "There's grandpa's truck"...and they are in our neighborhood about 3-4 times a week - so we see it OFTEN! :) Today - I opened the door and Kennedy yelled "PAPA!"...I had been telling her that Mama and Papa were coming for a few days now...and I guess she thought this was it! The guy felt bad disappointing her - he was about Dad's age...when he left...Kennedy cried. Guess I'll wait until closer to the end of the week to talk about them coming again. :)
Oh...and Mom and Dad think it will take a while for her to warm up to them...I don't think so! :)

First Dose

2009-01-09T14:43:00.003-05:00

Poor little Jaxen got his first taste of Amoxicillan!! I FINALLY decided to take him to the Dr. yesterday - even though he's been sick for a while. I tried to be the mom who waited it out...but ever since Sunday - I knew it was something more...and kept him and Kennedy home from church. They were both pouring green from the nose and coughing like crazy. I didn't think the other mom's at church would want their kids exposed. I hate it when people bring their sick kids around...it is so rude! It's like sealing an envelope full of germs and handing it off to another mom! haha! :)

It's so hard to tell if they have ear infections b/c he is teething...and I heard sore ears is a side effect of that! Who knows.

Point is...he has 2 VERY SEVERE (words straight from the Dr's mouth) ear infections. He is supposed to take the antibiotic for a week and a half and then come back and see her. She is not convinced that one round will kill it.
Poor little Jaxen. He is such a good baby -that he never even cried! The Dr. couldn't believe that he had been sleeping through the night still! He's a tough guy!

Moment of Pride

2009-01-08T07:54:00.002-05:00

I have to take a minute to tell you this story. I had a moment of pure JOY watching my child (Kennedy) play at the Bounce House yesterday. First off....we have tried to take her 4 times...and not one time has she gone on any of the jump jumps because she has been TERRIFIED!! I have finally come to grips that I have a somewhat "shy and timid" daughter. It's very hard for an extrovert to know how to raise someone that struggles with fear. It can be an annoyance at times because you know that she is missing out on so much fun!! Well, when I say terrified of the bounce house - I Mean screaming and crying and snotting EVERYwhere! She usually buries her face in my chest and honestly feels like she is going to DIE if she even comes in EYE contact of these large bounce 'things'.

Yesterday - I got to experience an entire process of overcoming this fear!! We arrived at around 10am and the minute she saw where we were going she started FREAKING out! "Bye-Bye"..."NO MOMMY!"...over and over. I calmly told her that she wasn't going to play - only watch the other children play....it didn't help! She sat on my lap and cried for 30 minutes until she cried herself to sleep. :) I ignored her for the most part and tried to talk to my friend Stefanie...but I'm telling you...her face did not come out of my chest for an entire hour.

At about 11am...she woke up and decided that she would use the crayons and color sheet I had gotten her...and she started watching the other kids! She would say "Gook Mommy"! "Slide!" I would ask her if she wanted me to go with her and she would say "NO!"

At about 11:15 she met a little friend named Jordyn who was having the time of her life! I started making friends with her Mommy and before you know it, Kennedy was running around. This was HUGE to me! She wouldn't even go NEAR the inflatables, but this was the first time in 4 visits that she wasn't on my lap!

At about 11:30 Jordyn must have gotten tired of running, because she started going back on the inflatables. I could see her desire to try it...but she was so sad because of her fear! She came over for a few hugs and then went to watch Jordyn bounce. Before long Kennedy was bouncing on these little mats and peeking her head in the inflatables....I knew she was close! I asked her again if she would go with Mommy...and she said "NO!"

At about 11:45, Jordyn's Mommy took Jordan on this huge slide...and said "Come on Kennedy"...and Kennedy kind of followed - and then chickened out..and then followed...and then chickened out...and then FOLLOWED!!! My heart was POUNDING for her!!! She had to go through a tunnel, around an obstacle course - and climb a wall...and then all of a sudden...SHE WAS LOOKING DOWN AT ME FROM THE TOP!!! I cheered and whistled and clapped - and counted to 3 and down she came....saying "WEE" in a shaky little voice! The minute she got to the bottom - she looked at me with this HUGE smile and said "MORE!" She went constantly for the next 45 minutes...and even said "Come on Mom!"....I have to say...it was a blast!!

I could have bawled my eyes out!!! My heart was bursting out my chest! I was so proud of her for overcoming her fears! I felt at that moment I could conquer the world...because in Kennedy's world...she had done just that!

Can't live without.....

2009-01-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

COFFEE!!! Our bathroom is now the new best place to get a "cup 'o Joe"....

Stage 1 Complete!

2009-01-07T07:52:00.004-05:00

Now we have to wait for a WEEK for Stage 2 (our granite)! This means we are without a sink and without a dishwasher...(and obviously countertops!) Soooo exciting though! :)

My kids are so sweet!

2009-01-06T08:27:00.003-05:00

Yesterday - Jaxen was crying from waking up from his nap...and Kennedy's new thing is RUSHING into his room - trying to beat me in. She loves to be the "mommy" and console him....
Anyway - I had to let him cry a bit longer to run and get the camera....here's what I found...

Day 2

2009-01-06T08:07:00.006-05:00

Kitchen Demolition

2009-01-05T16:45:00.004-05:00

Well - we've begun the process of the kitchen transformation!!! How exciting!!!
I'll post pictures of the progress!! :)

After Christmas....

2009-01-03T10:58:00.008-05:00

It was finally nice enough that we could take a walk in the new wagon...OUTSIDE! :) Fun was had by all!

Kennedy and Jaxen sported their new outfits from Uncle Wes and Aunt Miranda.

We spent some of our Christmas money on more furniture for Kennedy's bedroom:

And saw some great friends from Kansas:

"Boppy and Diego"

2008-12-27T15:23:00.002-05:00

Well -
Kennedy gave up her "boppy"...(Pacifier). We are THRILLED! Not that we were worried about it...at all...but you would not BELIEVE the number of other people (strangers I might add)...who were completely concerned citizens regarding our child and her pacifier! I am amazed DAILY at how rude people can be. I wish I was more like my friend Lindsay - and could tell them to "bug off!" :) We had one Asian lady come up to us and have the following conversation:
RUDE LADY:"OOO...she too bihg fo dat"..."You need to trow dat away...geet rid oh dat"
My RESPONSE: "She just turned 2 on Sunday..."
RUDE LADY: "OOO...I taught shee fo yehr owd...shee so taw"..."Shee beig fo heh adge"
MY RESPONSE: "Yes..she just turned 2...so we're going to let her keep it"...(and a smile).

What I REALLY wanted to say was "Mind your own @()#*@)(&$*@(@ business!!" :) (With a smile of course)

Wow...did I go there? Back on track! Kennedy had about 16 "boppy's" chewed up by Vegas...which cost us about $30 in the past month. Jon and I decided that when she chewed the last one - they were gone. Kennedy was warned of this EXTENSIVELY!!! When the final one got chewed...and we told her "no more"....she did the sign for "all done". That was it. She took it and threw it in the trash - and hasn't asked for it since. :) We saw her sucking her fingers at one point...but that's about it! :)

We also went to Target - and Kennedy begged for "big girl underwear". I had no problem getting her some - and was anxious to pick out the cutest pink princess kind possible! When we got there...she wanted Diego! Of course those were boy kind...which I DID NOT allow! :) We settled for Minnie Mouse underwear and a Diego toothbrush! :)

Christmas Day!

2008-12-27T14:32:00.003-05:00

What fun we had with our children on Christmas morning! (Jon and I had a TON of fun getting things ready the night before)...I think that's my new favorite part! :)
We came downstairs at about 7am in our new PJ's. (This is a tradition we've had since we dated...new pj's opened on Christmas eve). Kennedy let out a HUGE "WOW" as she came down the stairs...knowing that "Ho-HO" had been there the night before! :)

We first read the Christmas Story...and talked about how baby Jesus came to earth and that is why we celebrate. We also sang "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. Kennedy was all smiles. We had so much fun watching her open gifts...She got a ton of stuff for her baby dolls and a new grocery cart and cash register.

Let me just say that these are WAY more advanced than they used to be. THey actually send bar codes with it (stickers) that you can place on your play food etc...and they SCAN!!! The cash register "registers" the price and adds it in for you. IT's amazing! We have had fun playing store!! She also got a new memory game (Backyardigans of course) and some puzzles and a wagon from the grandparents. Jaxen loved watching all the crazy paper flying - and tried to eat it the entire time! The whole process took sooo long (2 hours) - that he fell asleep before it was all said and done! :)

For dinner, we went to our pastors house and ate with their family. It was fun and nice and we just had a great time with Jimmy and Patty! They are sooo sweet...we are blessed to have them in our lives! How nice of them to include us in their day.

All in all, it was a great day with our family. We definately missed out on Christmas's in Ohio and Kansas - but we made the best of it - and ended up having a wonderful time being together.

Christmas Eve

2008-12-27T14:27:00.003-05:00

We decided not to travel this Christmas...mostly because of the craziness that this year has brought us - and b/c of Jon's new job. We made the best of it in starting our own family traditions. We were able (for the first time) to be a part of our Christmas Eve service at our home church! What a great time! Jon helped with the set-up and decorating and I did some of the music (we did an accoustic set). It was a wonderful time with our new church family. Hopefully a tradition that we will be able to experience for years to come. We feel so at home here...we are sooo thankful for our church. It's the first time Jon and I have BOTH been able to feel a part of a ministry as a family.

Walmart...

2008-12-20T15:48:00.002-05:00

Kennedy is getting to where she likes to play pretend. I always encourage this by asking her questions about what she is doing - where she is going etc. It makes her think through things and begin to use her imagination. :)

Today - she got her stoller out, with her babies (2 of them because I have 2), put her purse over the handle of the stroller and took off. I asked her where she was going...and she told me "Mallmaht" (Walmart). When I asked her what she was going to buy at Walmart...I was waiting to hear the word "TOYS!"...because that's what she says when we pull into the parking lot. (We always spend at least 10 minutes looking) Instead she told me that she was buying "Pahpers and Duce". Hmmmm...Diapers and JUICE! WOW....can you tell I have 2 kids in diapers and drinking juice? :) It seems we are going to the store for these 2 things every day!! :)

"Hold You"

2008-12-17T08:19:00.003-05:00

There is something so sweet about those 2 words. I have always thought it was one of the more "cute" things that kids say. I'm referring to the point in a child's life where they look up into your eyes, reach out their arms and say - "hold you?"...
It's this moment of complete innocense where they are putting words together to form sentences and trying to immitate what they have learned from your mouth. Of course -they are saying "HOLD YOU"...b/c that's what YOU say..."Do you want me to Hold you?"...

It is just the sweetest moment when Kennedy says those 2 words...and she says it with this pathetic look of exasperation...as if she can't go on any longer. I love being the one that she wants to hold her.

Isn't it the same as we are with Christ? We are living life - trying to be like Him - trying to immitate His mind and His character to the best of our human ability (which isn't much)...but then there are those sweet times when we can't go on any longer - and we reach our arms out to Him and ask Him to "Hold You". What a gift to be able to have someone at the age of 29 that can still Hold me and someone I can lean on when I can't go any further...and someone who can know what I mean - even though my words or actions may be jumbled!

Things that make you go..."hmmmm"

2008-12-16T09:00:00.002-05:00

Something about eating "real" food makes Jaxen fall asleep!!! haha! It's so funny b/c he doesn't fall asleep after his bottle necessarily...but the moment I get him in that highchair to eat sweet potatoes and bananas - he's out like a light!

Basketball Game!

2008-12-14T21:44:00.006-05:00

We had the honor of going to a professional basketball game with a friend of ours from our new church, Daniel. He told us to get a babysitter, and he would take care of the tickets to the game. WOW! How nice! What we didn't realize is that we would be in the 3rd row on the floor of the court!!!! We were in what they call "Backcourt"...which means free food and drinks and a chance to rub shoulders with just about everyone you can imagine!! Michael Jordan wasn't there...which we were a little disappointed about...but we saw some other stars and even got our picture with one of the "Bobsled team members from 'Cool Runnings'." We got to give highfives (or pounds) to all the players...(I immediately lathered in anti-bacterial so I don't get the stomach flu)...and really - just had a great time! Here are a few pictures...Danielle was with us too! (She came to visit)....so fun!

Nose Ring!

2008-12-14T21:09:00.002-05:00

Had to post a pic! :)

Treasure Hunt...kind of

2008-12-12T16:10:00.002-05:00

I'm a little hesitant to put this in my blog - knowing that my Grandma reads this! Hi Grandma! :) But...it is My blog...and so I'm going to! :) haha!

Jon planned something SUPER special for me today. He told me that after my MOPS group - I was to come to his office and drop the kids off. At that time - he was going to give me an address to drive to. I plugged in the address and started driving. HOW FUN! :) I had a feeling that he had gotten me a massage - or a pedicure. He's really good at doing those for special occassions...and he said that it was an early Christmas present. So I was pretty much driving looking for a spa or nail place. B/c I didn't see one - I totally drove right past where I was going - so I had to turn around and really pay attention. I pulled into this DIVE strip mall and all I could see was a sign for TATTOO BILLS!

My heart SANK and my stomach FLIPPED! I opened the envelope that Jon had given me - and he had written a note that said something along the lines of "SURPRISE!!! - Time to get your nose pierced!" YIKES! I am SUCH a wuss! I kept telling myself that I had 2 children by c-section - it couldn't be worse that that pain! :)
I walked in and saw about 4 guys (hard core) staring - you have to picture...I am frumpy sweater mom...coming into this place - telling them that my husband sent me - but I'm a little nervous- maybe they can just show me how it's done and then I'll think about it. Well - it took all of 2 minutes - and while the guy was "showing me how it's done"...he did it!

I now have a nose ring. WOW! Ive wanted one for like 2 years...so exciting!!! :)
I'll have to post a picture - but I have to fix my hair first! haha!
lOVE YOU GRANDMA! (AND MOM FOR THAT MATTER!)

The funniest thing happened today...

2008-12-10T22:17:00.002-05:00

Kennedy got into some gum...her new favorite thing....but it was the "hot" kind...(peppermint). Well - we've definately taught her about "hot" - b/c when I came into the living room - she was telling "Nanex" to "blow - hot nanex"....
haha - she would blow - and then try to eat a little bit - and then wipe her tongue off, tear up and blow again and try a little more. haha - it was hilarious!

Something NOT so hilarious...I left my nail polish out...shame on me...Kennedy painted her cheeks! :) I'm leaving it on - b/c I don't want to use the remover on her sensitive little skin. :) Instead of a spanking...(which I didn't feel she deserved since I left it out) ... we compromised w/ a "time out"...so at least she knows it isn't acceptable. Sigh...All of this happened while I was switching the clothes from the washer to the dryer and starting a new load in the washer....I mean - it's not like I don't "Watch" her all day long!!! :)

One more...

2008-12-08T11:01:00.002-05:00

If you'll notice...I post in 3's! Once I take the time to sit down and write- I usually have a few stories backed up!! :)
My friend Mandy has been here for the past week and this week as well. She is having training for her job and it happened to be in Charlotte!
Well - as you know - when you come visit - we put you to work.... :)
We painted my kitchen...and tried a new "ragging" technique. We are confident that this will eliminate fingerprints on our walls!! :) MAybe...

Growing up

2008-12-08T10:54:00.004-05:00

Jaxen is growing up so fast! I want him to stay a baby forever! I have started getting "baby fever" again...I don't know what is wrong with me! I Think it's all my friends (you know who you are) talking about it again! So...Jon and I will be in seperate beds for a while! haha! Just Kidding! :)

Anyway - before this blog gets to a PG rating...I'll get back to my G-rated post! Jaxen is starting to sit up and wants to grab and touch and play with everything! It's so cute! Here's a little glimpse!

I've been busy...

2008-12-07T23:08:00.001-05:00

Painting that is...When we moved in..I said "I am NOT painting for a couple of years." That lasted about 4 months! Not TOO bad!?
Here is the kids bathroom...So fun!! :)

Birthday Girl!

2008-12-01T14:02:00.005-05:00

My baby girl is 2 years old! Hard to believe that it has gone so fast! The first year seemed to drag - but this past year has literally flown by! IT's funny how you start to reminise on your children's birthdays...thinking..."Hmmm...2 years ago at this time...I was in labor - or in surgery - or whatever". We are so blessed to have 2 wonderful loving children. I keep saying "this is my favorite age.." but I keep saying that every few months! I think that I just love it all...even through the tough times.
We had a "Backyardigans Birthday". It's her VERY FAVORITE cartoon. In fact, we have to beg her to watch other things just for variety. We celebrated by going to Monkey Joes (a bouce house) and she screamed the entire time. We left early and got pizzas and came home and had cake and opened presents. It was a fun day over all!
She got a new baby doll with lots of accessories (and more to come at Christmas...at least that's what Santa told me). She also got a "sit and spin" and a v-tech computer from G-ma and G-pa Sawhook and some baking supplies and aprons and cookbook from G-ma and G-pa Morgan.
Happy Birthday Kennedy!!!

Decorating the Christmas Tree

2008-12-01T13:55:00.003-05:00

Yes...I'm one of "those" who put our tree up BEFORE thanksgiving. I felt that Thanksgiving was too late this year - and since we travel over the holidays - if we would have waited - we would have only been able to enjoy it for about 20 days. Not worth the work if you ask me.... :) Jon is awesome too...he loves that kind of stuff - and gets totally into it with me. We are a perfect fit. We both love that we just "get" each other - and we think alike on most things. It's fun to have someone who is as much into it as I am! He loves the Christmas music on and the candles and the lights of the tree. I got a great man!!
Here are a few pictures of us "decking the halls"!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T13:38:00.006-05:00

As most of you know - I cooked my very first Thanksgiving dinner this year. It was great fun! I actually think I'm learning to love to cook...wow - never thought I'd be saying that! I think it's fun to experiment with new recipes and make them my own. :)
The prep work went well...I didn't think it was as much work as everyone warned me...but I was only cooking for 7....so that could be why! :) Everyone was nervous with me handling the Turkey...as I can't even touch raw chicken...but I did good! It wasn't as "floppy" as chicken...so I did better! Thankfully my Grandma told me that there were 2 bags in the turkey of nasties! I think I would have only seen the first one...yikes! My dinner consisted of Turkey, Stuffing (made from scratch), Mashed potatoes (10lbs.), Creamed corn, steamed corn, deviled eggs, green beans, rolls, cranberry sauce, cheese cubes and crackers, veggie/pickle tray, pumpkin pie, and Tina made a peanut butter pie that was to die for!

We had our friends the Leggs from West Virginia come down to eat with us. It was a great time of laughing, eating and laughing some more. We even put TJ to work while he was here. He ran us some electrical work, installed a new hot water heater and a new dishwasher! If you've noticed a pattern...when you come stay with us...we put you to work! ha! Sydney was amazing with Jaxen..such a big help! Kelsey entertained Kennedy the whole time - and Tina helped me out with everything else!

Switched at the playground?

2008-11-22T08:46:00.005-05:00

Is this the same child?? Did I mention that Kennedy calls him "Nanux"?

Locked Out!

2008-11-21T08:54:00.001-05:00

Well - as most of you know...I feel like I have triplets most days! A 1 year old, a puppy and a 5 month old. WHEW! Yesterday, as I was taking the puppy out to "potty"...I heard the door behind me slam shut..and then click. Kennedy had locked the door with me outside!!! This was Right before Jaxen's bottle time, and he was fussing...I was trying to take the dog out before the bottle so we wouldn't have an accident. The next few minutes were spent coaching Kennedy how to unlock the door....BUT...it didn't work. I was trying to tell a 1 year old to "turn the knob" -turn the "clicky thing". UGH. I think after a few minutes of that - she realized what she had done. She started WAILING...sooo upset. I could hear Jaxen crying as well. NICE. I had no cellphone or anything! I ran across the street to our neighbor, ROM's, house. He wasn't answering the door - despite my vigourous knocks and rings of the doorbell. After what seemed like an eternity - he came to the door...obviously I had woken him up. :) When I started telling him the story - the tears for me came. I couldnt help it when I started to think of my 2 children stuck in the house crying....
Rom said he was going to run upstairs to get his shoes - and help me out. I think he must have taken a shower - b/c his hair was wet, he had changed his clothes, and put his contacts in...geez!!! We went over to our house -and he cut the screen and got the window open and I crawled right inside. (It was a little disheartening that it was so easy...) :)
Needless to say - we are going to make a spare key - TODAY! :) Ooo...and let me just say for the record...that I called my mother crying - and she gave me wonderful sympathy...and then she proceeded to tell me that I had done the VERY SAME THING to her right before I turned 2 in Arizona!! haha... Emily...this reminds me of the similar "powder story".... :)

Terrible Two's??

2008-11-14T13:16:00.002-05:00

With the "terrible two's" just 2 weeks away - I am a little anxious about how this is all going to go. Yesterday - I was sitting on the couch feeding Jaxen...and I heard the toilet flush followed by yelping...
I rush in there to find Vegas in the toilet (put there by Kennedy) - and she had flushed! Talk about a full-body swirlie!! haha!
Now please tell me - HOW are you supposed to dicipline after this? I can't control my laughter!! I don't necessarily think the two's will be terrible...but FUN FILLED FOR SURE!! :)

Like Mother ... like son?!

2008-11-11T22:49:00.002-05:00

Jaxen started sucking his thumb today! He had it in all night...not sure if this is a new thing that will stick or just a fluke!? He usually has his hand in his mouth - and it's all raw and red...poor guy! He's teething sooo bad lately...so maybe his thumb just felt the least painful in his mouth?! Either way - it was pretty cute! :)

Santa "swung" by early at our house

2008-11-11T22:27:00.005-05:00

So...we knew we wanted to get the kids a swingset for Christmas...but the weather has been GREAT at home and the thought of spending 5 hours in the freezing cold to put this together wasn't exactly on Jon's top 10 list!!! He worked his tail off most of Saturday - and the finished product was a great swing set and one VERY happy little girl!!!

Tribute to Jaxen...

2008-11-11T22:20:00.005-05:00

I know he will kill me for this later...but I had too!!!!! Don't you just want to kiss his little cheeks!??!!? :)

"Clicky Shoes"

2008-11-11T22:06:00.004-05:00

Kennedy is fortunate enough to be cousin #6 in the cousin line as far as females go...so we get the benefit of "the sacks" everytime we go home! (Thanks Mark!)
Last month when we went to Ohio...we were given 3 giant trashbags FULL of clothes. I passed some along - but the biggest hit were the 2 pairs of "clicky shoes". Kennedy wears them all around the house. It's also a DAILY fight to put on real shoes when we go somewhere!! She always wants to wear these silly shoes! :) I love that she is such a "girl". :)

New Friends

2008-11-07T10:25:00.002-05:00

This week Jon was out of town THE WHOLE WEEK!!! It was my first time alone with the kids for this long...and lets just say I am POOPED!!! :)

It was a great week though...we had something every day of the week to keep us occupied! :)

Monday - We went took dinner to the Andersons, people we knew from West Virginia - who just had their 4th baby!! Kennedy and I spent all day cooking and then took dinner to them.

Tuesday - we went out for Chinese food (Kennedy and I love lo mein) - and then we went to Toys R Us for a good hour and a half! I got tons of ideas for Birthday and Christmas. IT was great fun!

Wednesday - We went to the park with my new friend Liz and her little boy Evan. It was great fun getting to know her better. Was a little crazy b/c I was watching 5 kids (long story) - but we all made it!

Thursday - we went for Coffee with my other new friend Tillie and her little boy, Jacob. KEnnedy and Jacob had SO MUCH FUN! There was a ton to do! Puzzles, chalk, books, balls - you name it! This coffee place was GREAT! HE is 4 - and I have never seen Kennedy play as well together with anyone as they did. He was so patient and kind to her and made her laugh the entire time....very unusual for a BOY! :) HE even asked his mommy if Kennedy could "sleep over"! ha!

Friday - we are home - and anxiously awaiting our missing link to our family! He will be flying in around 5pm...I'm counting the minutes! :)

Halloween

2008-11-01T09:09:00.008-04:00

Well - this was our first Halloween in Charlotte. We were so excited b/c Kennedy can kind of "get it!"...but as with anything new for her - she freaked! :) She didn't want to wear her costume...so we had to bribe her with candy. I know its terrible - but I spent $10 on that costume - and she WAS going to wear it! ha!
Jaxen, on the other hand, was a great sport! He let us dress him and take a ton of pictures. He looked soooo cute! You could barely see his little face....but he just took it like a man. ;)

Our neighborhood had a little parade for the kids - so we walked down the the pool area and lined up. It was neat to see everyone's costumes. :) You should have seen some of the houses down there. They went ALL out. HUGE blowups everywhere - music, free pizza...good grief! We were excited to get home and get our new fire pit out and pass out candy to all the kids!
We got home - stripped the costumes off - set up the firepit - ate some home-made chicken veggie soup - and waited....and waited....and waited. :( PRetty soon - the kids got tuckered out - from handing out candy to 0....zero...yes 0 kids! Apparently they don't come down to our culdesac....so sad. We had been told to plan for 85-100 kids...needless to say - we have a lot of candy left...and we had chocolate this year! :) I HAVE to get it out of the house...today. :)

Milestones

2008-10-31T08:50:00.001-04:00

Perhaps only a parent could TRULY appreciate this...but this morning when I went in to get Jaxen, he was staring up at me with his googly eyes and silly grin. Most of you that know me - know my kids sleep on their stomachs....what this means is that...HE ROLLED OVER!!! :)

He's also holding his bottle with 2 hands all by himself. It's so precious! These are the freeze frames I try to take w/ my camera in my head - things I want to be able to see clear as day when I'm 80.... :)

Pumpkin Carving Night!

2008-10-30T09:10:00.005-04:00

We had a great time - and a great mess! I had looked up all these low-fat pumpkin recipes - b/c I wanted to try to make something - but they all said not to use field pumpkins! Oh well...we stuck with pumpkin seeds!

Ohio and Georgia

2008-10-29T23:09:00.004-04:00

We had a HUGE week/end of traveling with 2 children! They did WONDERFULLY! Last minute - we decided to take a trip to Ohio to see Jon's side of our family. It had been awhile - and we are much further now! It took us 10 hours (with stops) on the way...and 11 (with a stop for dinner with friends) on the way back. I couldn't believe how great Kennedy did - Jaxen is easy...suuuch a good baby! She watched Backyardigans, Elmo, Wiggles and Little Eiensteins - picked out trees and cars and trucks and buses...and slept. :) While there - we were able to hang out w/ family and see cousins!

It was great! Jon's sister is getting ready to have twin boys...and man - she is ready to pop!! They aren't due until Dec. 20th - but I have a feeling they will be coming soon!!! :) We can't wait! This will be #15 and #16 of the cousins on that side!! Whew!! Also - Grandma Georgia and Lisa decided to buy Kennedy's 2 year b-day presents early... and sing...she didn't know what to think! :)

We got home Sunday night from Ohio and literally went straight to bed. Monday morning - we got up and re-packed and left for Atlanta. Jon had some work to do there...and one of my best friends lives there now. :) We were able to meet them for dinner - and then her and her husband kept my 2 kids and my new puppy! What a grrrreat friend Mandy is!!! :) I just KNEW she'd have a sleepless night...but all 3 of them slept and stayed asleep until about 7:30am. :) That next morning - Jon went to work and Mandy, the kids, and I - hit up IKEA. Oh my goodness. I forgot how much I looove that place! If you haven't been...make the drive. It's worth it! :) I was able to get some great decorations for our guest room - and some other ideas that Jon can probably make on his own!!! IT's the CHEAPEST place EVER...to get things. I can't even begin to describe...but it makes Walmart look pricey! :)

We are back - safe and sound - after a total of 30 hours on the road in 5 days...
Jon and I were talking about how much we'd LOVE to figure out how many hours Kennedy has been traveling since birth....it would be ridiculous...more to come on that...maybe...

Vegas

2008-10-29T13:54:00.002-04:00

We have a new addition to our family!!! No - I'm not pregnant...we got a puppy!!!
She is sooo cute - and we named her Vegas. She is SUCH a good dog...doesn't bark at all! Kennedy is LOVING her...she carries her around and Vegas sits with her in her carseat. It's fun for Kennedy to have something to "boss". :)

Kennedy's Masterpiece

2008-10-21T13:19:00.005-04:00

Today was a rough day in the life of one little Sawhook. You can probably guess, by the title of this blog, who that would have been! Jon and I both ended up on the phone earlier today - Jon with work - and me with a call for a reference for a job for one of my closest friends. Both calls were necessary - however, this left our children unsupervied for about 10 minutes. WELL...that's all the time it took. After we hung up from our calls - we all left to run errands and have lunch out to enjoy this nice day. Kennedy was being SOOOO good. She rode in the cart nicely, said please and thank you...even told Jon "Thank you..lunch". We kept commenting on how well behaved she was being today. When we got home from the store -we found out why. :) You can see in the pictures below - her nice artwork. Not only did she color all over the walls...but she also picked away pieces of the drywall. Jon and I were both so shocked...this is our first real encounter with something more than talking back or not being gentle w/ brother. Looking back...she probably should have gotten a spank...but...instead - she got the scolding of a lifetime - and her pencils and color books thrown in the trash. She was devistated. She uses those pencils ALL the time...she LOVES to draw...and will take any opportunity given to do so! You can also see where she grabbed a baby wipe and tried to clean the walls off.... hehe...these are the stories we will look back and laugh at ... but for now - we have to figure out how to paint over it. :)

CEREAL!

2008-10-20T09:25:00.005-04:00

Jaxen had is 4 month appointment. He weighed 17 lbs and was 26 inches long! What a big boy! The Dr. said we could start cereal on a spoon - so we took our first attempts. :) Miss Kennedy had to be Mommy's big helper..and she can't stand a mess - so after every bite - she was wiping Jaxen's mouth! haha!

Fall Fun!

2008-10-20T09:01:00.005-04:00

We have had so much fun the past couple of weekends! Last weekend we went to a pumpkin patch and sunflower field. It was so fun and all free! We were able to pick out our own pumpkins and take some great fall pictures! :) After the patch we had some old friends from West Virginia come down for dinner. It was fun - there were 14 of us at Red Robin! It was fun to see everyone's kids and catch up on life! ;)

Then this past weekend - we had 2 fall festivals. The first one was in our shopping center (1 mile from our house). It was AWESOME! EVerything was free...they had food from all the restaurants (of course I didn't eat a thing!) and they had pumpkin painting and a parade and face painting and characatures...(however you spell that)...Then our neighborhood had one with a free cookout and moonbounces and all of that fun stuff! :) Yesterday - I played w/ the church band for the first time.
They are REALLY good! It will take me some time to figure out how to work all the equipment and get used to how things are run. I am playing on a synth w/ one hand and a keyboard with the other. It will be a great opportunity to grow as a musician....when you play with people better than you - all you can do is get better! ;)
Then last night - we tried out a homegroup - and LOVED It. Everyone was so nice - and there were 2 other little girls Kennedy's age. We just really loved it...and are loving our new church. It's amazing how connected we already feel here. We've honestly done more in 2 months - then we did in 2 years in our previous state! :) We are grateful and thankful to be here...even though we miss our dear friends.

Crosspoint

2008-10-15T15:27:00.003-04:00

Well - a few of you have asked for an update on our church situation. :) We are soo excited to say that we have found a church home! It's a super long story about how we ended up here...but we KNOW 100% that it was NOT an accident! We had planned to be a part of the Teays Valley Chuch plant in West Virginia...and were so confused as to why God had laid that on our hearts and why we were being pulled in that direction...only to find out that we were moving out of state!

We now know EXACTLY why we went through that! He was burdening us to be a part of a great ministry here in Charlotte. THe church is only 18 months old - but we feel and see that it is about to explode! God is doing great things in this work and we are ecstatic about partnering with them in this endeavor!

We have only been attending for a month now - but we have already been to the pastors house to play Poker..ha!...and to a small group and I will be joining the band this week! :) Didn't take us long at all! The main thing we love about the church is their vision. They are passionate about not just GOING to church once a week - but actually BEING the church in our community and surrounding area every day. We love their serving spirit and know that we will be on a huge journey of growth here as a family and individually as well.

Thanks to those who prayed for us in this decision!!

www.crosspoint521.org

BIG GIRL BED!

2008-10-15T12:52:00.002-04:00

Our baby girl (she'll always be my baby girl) is sleeping in a "big girl bed" now!! :) We didn't force it - and were actually keen on the idea of keeping her in her crib as long as possible. However, with all of our traveling, she has grown quite accustommed to sleeping in big beds...so she started asking to sleeep in the twin bed in her room. We started out w/ naps - but after day 2...she wanted in there all the time! So far - so good! She hasn't tried to get up even one time - and she's been sleeping from 8pm to 8am!! LIFE IS GOOD (right now!).

It was so cute when after the first morning - Kennedy came walking into our room w/ a glowing smile on her face...she came and got in bed with us and was just so proud that she had been a big girl all night! Jon commented that one of his dreams of having kids was seeing them run and jump into bed with us in the mornings...and we have been able to experience that the past few days. :) Yesterday - Jon took apart the crib and put it in the attic. We thought perhaps Kennedy would react badly...but she was overjoyed when some of her toys from downstairs were able to be moved into her room!! (SO WAS I!!) :) So far - so good!

...and now for the finished product!

2008-10-09T10:02:00.003-04:00

Organization!

2008-10-09T09:55:00.003-04:00

So I got a little crazy this week...Made out a menu for the whole month and did all the grocery shopping (minus bread and milk and veggies) for the entire menu! I also tried a new recipe and will be trying one soup and one new recipe per week this month! In my ongoing efforts to get organized...I also cleaned up my pantry...which was necessary in order to know what was in there - and what was needed at the store! I'm embarrassed to show you how bad it was - but let's celebrate the finished product! :)

Ice Cream Cones!

2008-10-09T09:50:00.003-04:00

We discovered something brilliant this week. When we have icecream - we usually give Kennedy a little dish with a spoon. However...it always ends up being the "mess of the year" - with sticky from head to toe!! :) Jon had the idea to try a cone....I of course thought this would be SOOO much MORE messy - thinking about the cone breaking and ice cream dripping everywhere!! I have to say ... he was RIGHT!