Letters After Midnight

My Heart is Full

2011-12-26T20:22:00.001-06:00

The gifts have been opened, the mess (mostly) cleaned up, the newness has worn off of the presents and the season, but my heart remains full. We have had such a wonderful time making memories, doing the mundane, getting excited, and just being together. We are blessed with so much. We are healthy, happy, and can openly give thanks to the most amazing God who provides. He provides the little

Absenteeism

2011-05-27T11:55:00.001-05:00

Reading a few insightful blog posts by great women, I thought about my own blogging efforts and cringed at the fact that I haven't posted in months and before that it was only sporadically.I could point to our three small children, a husband who travels for work, the house I can't seem to keep clean, the ever-present laundry in need of washing, the dishes that never seem to all be washed, any

Hi

2011-02-27T00:30:00.001-06:00

Hi How are you?Just a couple of days ago we bought an Apple MacBook Pro MC024LL/Afrom ! this website www.Xmastrade.comIt is indeed a fantastic machine, though it will take some time to get used to the new system. Wireles mouse and keyboard. Nice design. and I love it. I paid $1260US all charges included the chose to use the Core 2 Duo but that's not all bad. This is a stable, cool running,

A Matter of Survival

2010-10-08T12:42:00.002-05:00

This week has been dubbed International Babywearing Week. In light of the recent recalls of unsafe bag slings and the resulting CPSC warning about slings it is imperative that we not only celebrate babywearing, but call attention to the myriad benefits to SAFE use of baby carriers.I was first introduced to slings when my oldest child was a colicky infant, my husband traveled for work a lot, and I

The baby(wearing) frame of mind...

2010-09-03T11:01:00.004-05:00

As my due date quickly approaches (and I progress further beyond the point at which my first two were born...ugh), I am in nesting mode. With the help of my mother during her visit a few weeks ago and the understanding of my husband, I have been washing, folding, stacking, organizing, stockpiling, cleaning, arranging, installing and planning.It began months ago with bigger purchases (an extra

Guilty

2010-08-25T10:01:00.002-05:00

I feel like the last couple of weeks have been spent in complete limbo. I am now 38 weeks pregnant. I have passed the point at which Katherine was born (37 weeks 2 days), but not yet reached the point at which Jack was born (38 weeks 4 days). I feel huge although I know it could be worse. I am tired, uncomfortable, grumpy, and emotional. I am accomplishing less and less around the house as a

My Review of City Micro Single - Kiwi

2010-08-24T11:29:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at Diapers.comBaby Jogger City Micro Single - Kiwi Features:- Quick-Fold Technology- Accessory Mounting Bracket- 6" Front and 8" Rear Lightweight, Quick-Release Wheels with Sealed Ball Bearings- Swivel Front Wheel Locks in Place ... City Micro Single - KiwiLOVE this stroller for a toddlerBy Mama Kat from Kansas City on 8/24/2010 5out of 5Pros: Easy

Down Time...sort of

2010-08-19T10:55:00.003-05:00

Today getting the kids and myself up early and out the door to get Katherine to "school" was just too much. We are not morning people...at all...so waking a toddler and preschooler, getting them dressed, fed, and into the car while sporting a beach ball-sized belly full of baby (not to mention getting myself presentable enough to walk her into the childcare facility for my husband's company) is

Silly Kids

2010-07-12T00:34:00.001-05:00

There is nothing better than the spontaneous laughter of children! No reason required.

Something you never WANT to think about

2010-06-03T11:44:00.001-05:00

This link is to an excellent post on introducing fire safety to toddlers and preschoolers. http://codenamemama.com/2010/06/03/fire-drills/ House fires are never something you want to think of, but I imagine this subject to be one of the most important you address with your kids.We have been dangerously lax in this area of education. I plan to remedy that as soon as possible. Plus, the kids would

Summer rain...storm!

2010-05-26T14:29:00.001-05:00

Unexpected thunderstorms - awesome. Dashing around the house to close windows and clean up water - not so awesome. We have had a string of days in the 80's, but we have been able to stick it out without turning on the air conditioner. We keep all the windows and doors open 24/7. Thanks to the forethought of the people we bought the house from our glass storm doors have screen inserts to replace

Summer diversions

2010-05-25T17:52:00.001-05:00

It is amazing what kids find to occupy their time. Katherine picked up the broom of her own accord and insisted on sweeping!Jack, of course, would rather dig the sand from between the pager stones.

Bittersweet Celebration

2010-05-09T08:43:00.001-05:00

Today we celebrate mothers. We call or see our moms, grandmothers, mothers in law and mother figures. It is a good day. It can be a celebration tinged with pain as well.Today I revel in the hugs and kisses of my beautiful children, eagerly anticipate the addition of another, and mourn for what will never be this side of heaven.To all of the women who have mothered me (Mom, Grama, Mom Kanary, Mara

School Pictures

2010-05-06T21:14:00.001-05:00

Wow, school pictures sure have improved since I was in school! I did not expect to purchase more than the obligatory class picture for scrapbooking purposes, but these are actually pretty good.I can't believe how grown up Katherine looks. I swear I am going to turn around and she is going to be posing for senior portraits!

Redecorating

2010-05-04T14:33:00.001-05:00

Apparently Katherine has been adding her personal touch to our landscaping. The pink plastic barrettes are a nice touch.The weather has been amazing so we are spending more time outside. The completed fence has been a blessing. The kids can be outside more with a little less supervision. The playset has also been a good investment for our family - one we use quite a bit! We put an inexpensive

Surviving

2010-04-12T10:18:00.005-05:00

This morning, as I look out at the beautiful, sunny day the Lord has given us, I am reflecting on the mode my life has been in lately (ok, more than just lately...). I have set aside any attempt at thriving for the bare necessity of surviving. This sounds melodramatic, especially considering I lead an extremely blessed life. But, this has been the posture of my heart - one bent on survival. I

I should be sleeping...

2010-03-15T02:36:00.001-05:00

...but instead I am eating sunflower seed cookies (yummy) and playing on my new phone.I have been such an insomniac during this pregnancy so far, it is driving me crazy. I have to pee three or more times a night, I wake up starving in the middle of the night, I get really thirsty (which does nothing to help with the potty trips), and my mind just will not slow down.Unfortunately I NEED lots of

Little Whispers

2010-01-25T10:15:00.003-06:00

I wonder what it is about the act of telling a secret that is so appealing? Is it the closeness created both physically through the act of leaning into someone and whispering and emotionally through sharing something not many people know? This act appeals to even the youngest among us. Jack's new thing is to lean in close to me, put his mouth by my ear, and whisper nonsense. It is the cutest,

Goofing Around!

2009-12-21T17:30:00.000-06:00

This is what happens when having fun goes to your head! Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

What a journey

2009-12-11T11:13:00.004-06:00

It has been quite a while since I last posted - sometimes life just gets in the way. My last post was about my grandfather being ill. Unfortunately on Saturday, October 31st 2009 Donald Duane Hannaman left us and joined the Lord. My brother had been the only one of us who had not seen Papa since he was diagnosed. Thankfully, my mom flew him up that week to see Papa and spend some time with

Heavy Heart

2009-09-30T19:43:00.002-05:00

Today I carry a heavy heart. My grandfather has been ill for a couple of months. He was diagnosed with brain cancer (stage 4, inoperable), but had been doing well throughout his course of radiation. He did the treatments on an outpatient basis, going home to the farm on the weekends and staying with my uncle during the week. James, the kids, and I went to visit a couple of weeks ago. We had

Silly, I know, but it is how I feel right now.

2009-09-23T21:53:00.002-05:00

I feel silly even writing this - Katherine hurt my feelings. I know I should not look to my preschooler for validation. In fact, I don't look to her for validation - I am blessed to know that God provides it free of charge. Unfortunately, days like today just put me on edge emotionally. Nothing major, she is really a sweet kid. Just enough, unprovoked, intentional slight to make me take

Little brother woes

2009-08-04T19:45:00.000-05:00

Here is Katherine holding on to Princess Jack!Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Poor Little Brother

2009-08-04T19:34:00.002-05:00

My son is beginning to experience what it means to have a big sister. I am sure there are good things (I will have to consult my own little brother) and even great things, but being dressed up by your big sister is probably not one of the highlights.Poor Jack is, at this very moment, wearing a fluffy pink tutu that plays music when you move and his sister is dragging him around the house calling

Making a chair house

2009-07-10T10:53:00.000-05:00

I love that a favorite play place for the kids is under the kitchen table! In this picture they have moved every chair and bar stool to surround the table and are getting underneath to play. So cute!

Blessed by a stranger

2009-05-21T09:45:00.002-05:00

I just had the nicest thing happen. First, let me explain why it made me so happy. James left for work before the sun was up this morning - quite an accomplishment since the sun rises before 6:30am. He had a lot of work to do and didn't get much done last night due to not feeling well, the kids having a rough bedtime, and me trying to get a few things done while he was home. That meant I took

Nuzzle Love

2009-05-19T11:05:00.002-05:00

Warning: if you are put out by discussing breastfeeding you may want to skip this post.For the rest of you, let me share how sweet my nursing relationship is with Jack right now. He is such a sweet little guy. He still nurses to sleep for naps and bed most of the time. He is so active that he is getting tougher to settle down, but when he is getting sleepy he loves to snuggle. Recently I have

Mornings

2009-05-05T07:24:00.002-05:00

Ugh, as if not being a morning person weren't bad enough, Katherine is not fun in the morning at all. Even if, by some miracle, she wakes up somewhat pleasant, by the time we have fought our way through going potty, eating breakfast, getting dressed, brushing teeth, and getting stuff together for school - at least one of us has likely yelled and she has often melted down.Weekend mornings (OK,

Too much tv in the background?

2009-04-19T12:27:00.002-05:00

OK, funny story. We have a ton going on right now. We just returned from our last marathon trip to Cincinnati (marathon in time and effort, no running involved), the house is a mess, etc. James and I are pulling together paperwork for our house closing this week and Katherine is building a castle for her princess out of blocks. From the kitchen table where she is working I just heard, "make

I actually snorted with laughter...

2009-04-08T16:33:00.001-05:00

and I am not a snorty laugher! This is the funniest thing I've seen in a while. I giggled so much the dog started barking.Oh my...

Feeling old

2009-02-27T13:46:00.002-06:00

Wow, I can't believe how disconcerting it is when your doctor is your age. Having recently moved to a new city we are going about the business of finding new doctors, etc. I found a well-recommended ob/gyn practice and called immediately assuming it would be a while before I could get in to see anyone. Much to my surprise, when I called they had a cancelation for an appointment just a couple

Ruined

2009-02-11T13:07:00.002-06:00

While attending law school we used to joke that it ruined a variety of things for us. One example: legal dramas/comedies on TV. When you know what the actual law is and/or the real way things are done, the TV version is never quite as exciting. I used to be a huge Law & Order fan. But, that was before law school. Now I can't help but nit-pick the way they portray things (and how accurate

Ahhh...silence

2009-01-31T09:58:00.003-06:00

I am sitting here, listening to the radio, drinking a Coke, and relaxing. I was able to take a long shower (I know, a waste of water, but it had been a couple of days) and will be able to dry my hair (a luxury when you have two kids). All of this without the help of two little ones. My wonderful husband did the Saturday morning family Gymboree excursion by himself to give me a little break.

Trouble!

2009-01-29T16:48:00.000-06:00

Who would think that this face could be trouble? He is definitely trouble! Into everything, bangs on everything, chews on EVERYTHING! Even the new leather couch...seriously, everything.Katherine got into things, but Jack takes it to a whole new level. He loves cords and electronics more than any child I have ever met! He is trouble and knows it. When he is heading for something he shouldn't be,

Sunny days!

2009-01-22T10:43:00.000-06:00

Apparently we are going to the beach...ance the temp is above 35F.We are getting into more of a routine (although that clearly doesn't mandate getting dressed before lunch).Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Strange

2009-01-20T14:26:00.000-06:00

Things just feel strange. I am surprised how hard this move is for me since I moved so much growing up. Maybe because it is my first move with kids, maybe it is because we were so settled and connected in Cincinnati, I don't know.I am trying to think of it as an adventure, but it is hard. I sit here typing and my eyes are welling up and my throat it tight. It is an adventure and it really is a

We made it!

2009-01-18T17:55:00.000-06:00

We left after a frenzy of packing, cleaning, and organizing. Some of our dearest friends pitched in to make it happen. It was chaotic, but a farewell befitting our great neighborhood and friends in Cincinnati. We cried, laughed, hugged, packed, and chased a gaggle of kids around, but got everything done in the end.We took two days to make the drive, but the weather was good. Not as cold in Kansas

First snack in Kansas City.

2009-01-18T14:33:00.000-06:00

We just drove in, got the keys to the new place and the kids are snacking while we settle on strategy for moving stuff in.Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

No nap catches up with her!

2008-12-30T18:32:00.000-06:00

Hours before her normal bedtime and she has crashed on the floor, right after a bowl of ice cream!Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

New toy for the family!

2008-12-25T14:40:00.002-06:00

We got a Flip for Christmas! Here is my first video post...the princess playing and Grandma and Katherine making cookies.In January we will be moving. Currently we are about 3 1/2 hours away from James' parents. After the move we will be more than 10. So, we will see them much less frequently. My hope is to use the Flip to post videos fairly frequently so they can see the kids. I hope this

Merry Christmas...Eve

2008-12-24T08:59:00.002-06:00

I am sitting here, getting ready to bake a couple pies for our Christmas dinner tonight and marveling at how good God is. My mother and brother are here to share the season with us. My family is safe and in good health. My kids are aglow with the excitement of the season. We are blessed with truly amazing friends. Even in this terrible economy we have so much to be thankful for. I am

Prayers, Please

2008-12-19T09:12:00.002-06:00

I know it has been forever since my last post - more on why later. Right now I just want to ask for your prayers. Two days ago a member of our church fell to her death during the first performance of our Christmas show. Please pray for her family, her friends, our church community and our church leaders. We are shocked and saddened by Keri's untimely and tragic passing. When I've processed

Back online...sort of

2008-11-25T18:43:00.002-06:00

Whew, switching computers is really a mess! Mine finally bit the dust so I got a new one as my Christmas present (and birthday, and mothers day, etc.). I think I like it. I ended up getting a bigger screen on this one, so everything about it is a little bigger - including the keyboard! I have really ratcheted up the typos because my fingers aren't used to stretching so far to find the right

Almost standing alone!

2008-11-21T15:35:00.000-06:00

This picture was right before he got really into chewing on the toy and fell backwards. He is getting so big!Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Fake Empathy Gone Wrong

2008-11-16T13:55:00.002-06:00

I woke up this morning to several tweets about a new ad appearing on Motrin's website. The ad campaign attempts to empathize with moms, saying "we feel your pain." Great concept, extremely poor execution. The ad at the center of the mounting controversy has a voiceover of a "mom" talking about how much of a pain it is to wear your baby and how she does it for her child, but only because it is

Babywearing...Not just for moms!

2008-11-14T14:06:00.003-06:00

In honor of International Babywearing Week Stephanie over at Adventures in Babywearing is celebrating all week. She has invited fellow babywearing bloggers to join the celebration by posting their babywearing stories, photos, and tips.One thing I love is that babywearing is not just for moms!So celebrate the baby and the babywearers in your life by blogging about it. Share your link at

Look at this big boy standing up!

2008-11-12T17:47:00.000-06:00

I can't believe he is so strong and mobile already! Time has flown by.Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Table shots...

2008-11-12T13:00:00.003-06:00

My MIL had the greatest idea. When she wanted one of her kids to keep occupied when they were still in the just lay there phase she would put a comfy blanket in the middle of the kitchen table, lay them on their backs, and let them look up at the ceiling/lights/etc. She discovered with grandchild #7 that they would also enjoy looking at themselves in the mirrored tiles of her table!So, while

The perfect Christmas gift for Katherine!

2008-11-12T10:04:00.002-06:00

This thing looks really cool! I know I am a gadget freak and my children will likely be influenced by my love of all things electronic (you should see the way Jack already lunges for electronics - remotes, cell phones, cords, iPods, etc.).So, a Christmas idea for Katherine - how about the VTech Create-A-Story. Melanie over at Livin With Me! is giving one away. What a great gift idea!

He's a trooper!

2008-11-11T16:34:00.002-06:00

Poor little guy has his first ear infection. Jack went in for his 6 month check-up last week. Doc said he looks great...other than the virus he was apparently sporting (fever, rash, no big deal really). So, we couldn't get his shots at that visit and had to schedule a visit for this week hoping he would be over the virus. Well, he is over the virus (no more fever, etc.), but has an ear

Tell time all over the world with Mom Most Traveled

2008-11-11T14:13:00.001-06:00

It’s Tea Party Week at Mom Most Traveled! Enter here for your chance to win a Baby-G watch from Casio!Check out this great blog and really cool giveaway!

running for fun.jpg

2008-11-03T08:11:00.000-06:00

Do you remember what it felt like to run just because it was fun?Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Bad day for college football in our house

2008-11-01T21:58:00.003-05:00

Ugh, so both Michigan and Georgia lost today. Not a great day for watching college football in our house. First we listened to the Michigan game on XM. Then we watched the Georgia game on TV. At least Michigan had a chance, Georgia was just disgraceful! I am thankful for caller ID on days like this so I can choose not to answer the phone when my Gator-lovin brother calls to talk smack (sorry

Pony Tattoos

2008-10-29T21:10:00.002-05:00

Do you remember My Little Pony from the 80's? Plastic ponies with long tails and manes you could brush. Like Care Bears (another wonderful toy from the 80's) they each have names and are emblazoned with a picture that characterizes their name. The bears have their personality on their bellies, the ponies have theirs on their hind quarters.Well, both toys are still around (or have made

IMG00117.jpg

2008-10-28T12:46:00.000-05:00

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

You have got to check these out!

2008-10-24T14:27:00.003-05:00

If you know me at all you know I am an avid babywearer. As such, I have a small collection of baby carriers. I have ring slings, a pouch sling, mei tais, soft structured carrier (Ergo Baby Carrier)...more than my husband thinks I need.One carrier that I really want to try is the BECO Butterfly. It is a soft structured carrier made with the most amazing fabrics! Right now you can Win a Beco

Seriously?

2008-10-22T14:30:00.003-05:00

Let me start off by saying that I am truly blessed. No matter what our economy looks like right now I am still one of the middle class in one of the wealthiest nations on earth. I have never really wondered where my next meal would come from. I have a wonderful (strange, but wonderful) family who love me very much. I am in a very loving, committed marriage with a man whose faith I admire. I

Pink Princess Party

2008-10-12T19:51:00.002-05:00

The definition of insanity should include a short video clip of a birthday party with four three-year-old girls throwing elbows, pushing, taking toys, and crying for no ascertainable reason. Overall it was great to hang out with our friends. Three couples that we are close to also have 3-year-old daughters. So, we decided to start with the theory that you should allow your child to invite one

Shenandoah Costume GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-10-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

Amazing costume. So decadent, and perfect for Katherine's dress phase!Shenandoah Costume GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

The Kindness of Friends

2008-10-09T21:17:00.002-05:00

Wow...what can I say. I sit here with both kids asleep on the last night of a week with James out of town. I finally have five minutes peace. I could not have made it through this week without such great friends, a wonderful mom, and an attentive husband. The week started horribly with Katherine getting sick on Sunday. That caused me to forgo attending and serving at church and to keep her

Happy Birthday My Sweet Girl

2008-10-08T23:43:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that Katherine is 3. Where has the time gone? When did she become this tornado of laughter, pigtails, dresses, and...to my chagrin...whining? She is talkative, expressive, impressionable, and absolutely beautiful! She is in preschool three days a week and has started to assert her independence at every opportunity. She can clear her plate from the table after a meal (take it

Alone again and the kids are sick...ugh

2008-10-05T16:09:00.002-05:00

Well, James is off again for work. His company has a conference each fall and in recent years they have invited fewer of their associates to actually attend the conference since they would likely have to fly them in and put them up in a hotel for the duration. So, it was great that he was recognized and asked to attend, but it also means being away from home for seven days.I know it is rough on

Flickr

2008-09-30T13:48:00.001-05:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Wow, what an observant little girl!

2008-09-22T17:31:00.003-05:00

I don't know if it is a sign that we have been watching too much of the presidential election coverage or a sign that we watch too much tv in general, but this just cracks me up...We are sitting in the living room waiting for dinner to be finished, watching the nightly news when a campaign ad for Sen. Obama comes on. Katherine looks at the tv and says, "Barrack Obama mommy, Barrack Obama."

The family that convalesces together...

2008-09-01T15:11:00.002-05:00

...is a sad, grumpy group! Well, we've all been sick with a pretty nasty head cold since late Thursday. Yuck! What a way to spend the holiday weekend. I'll spare you the gory details, but lets just say we spent a couple of days in bed, have watched a lot of movies, and used a TON of tissues.At some point I'll catch up and post more photos. Right now I'm just waiting for my head to clear!

Finally Home

2008-08-24T15:50:00.003-05:00

Well, we are finally home from our last major road trip of the summer. I am happily exhausted. In the midst of each of our trips I wondered more than once why in the world we had decided to take two kids under the age of three on such long road trips and so many of them in one summer. But, in the end I am happy we went on each of them and have been blessed by the experiences.Where did we go?

They should be prosecuted...

2008-08-15T11:45:00.003-05:00

There are so many times that you put your life and the lives of your children in the hands of others out of necessity. Using mass transit, flying in a plane, booking a hotel based on their brand, website and reviews, and renting a car. You trust that the people in control are diligent in their maintenance, safety reviews, and operation. You trust that they will live up to their promises (both

One Crazy Summer

2008-08-05T10:31:00.003-05:00

That is the title of a movie my little brother and I watched when we were kids. Thinking back, it was really a silly movie, but the title seems to aptly describe our summer this year! We can't seem to stay home for more than a week at a time.We were gone for almost two weeks beginning mid-July, were home for a week, have been gone for the last week, will be home for two days, gone for another

Beautiful slings reviewed at Simple

2008-07-31T00:16:00.001-05:00

Blogging via blackberry tonight, but couldn't wait to post about the amazing slings reviewed over at Simple this week. Rockin baby slings and pouches are simply breathtaking! Head over to Simple Reviews to check them out!

Safer beverage consumption for the toddler crowd

2008-07-27T16:51:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I am a bit of a fanatic when it comes to sippy cups and bottles (and grown-up beverage containers too) free of bad plastic that leaches chemicals into our beverages that could harm us. So, it was with great interest that I saw a post over on The Soft Landing about the new and improved Safe Sippy. If I remember correctly the Safe Sippy debut was received with so-so ratings due to some

On the road...again

2008-07-25T13:30:00.006-05:00

So, all of the catching up I intended to do after our first marathon trip didn't happen and here we are ready to leave again in a couple of days! I'll have to post about our travels sometime soon. This next trip I won't personally be so busy above and beyond the normal craziness that is being a SAHM of a dramatically precocious 2 1/2 year old and an adorable 3 month old. So, if the place we are

On the road...

2008-07-08T22:03:00.001-05:00

We'll be on the road in a few hours for a 10 day road trip to St. Louis and Kansas City. Wish us luck!

I swear she isn't a sleeper...

2008-07-06T21:03:00.004-05:00

...but by the looks of these photos you would think she sleeps all the time!In this photo she was in the basement watching a movie while I was doing something upstairs. When I realized that I hadn't heard from her in a while I went down to check on her and found her fast asleep in the Baby Papasan. She ended up sleeping like that for three hours!In this photo we had been up WAY to early. She

Not Yet, Please

2008-07-06T18:31:00.003-05:00

Don't cut your teeth yet, Jack. The last week or so has found our little guy gnawing on fingers and chomping on a pacifier if its put in his mouth. If he can get his fists anywhere near his mouth, he practically growls trying to get them far enough in to chew on them. He has also been drooling like a madman.I know that even if these signs do herald the beginning of teething, he may not actually

It's great to buy items made by moms!

2008-06-28T15:23:00.003-05:00

That is why I LOVE Etsy. It is a website where you can buy and sell things that have been handmade. Not all things are made by moms, but you can find a ton of cool things and many are made by either moms who work at home or moms just trying to get their craft on while making a little extra money for their families. For example, as you can see from previous posts I am a babywearing advocate. I

Win a Babywearing Dream Stash!

2008-06-28T14:52:00.002-05:00

How AWESOME is this!Win the Essential Babywearing Stash from Along for the Ride (one Beco Butterfly, one Hotsling baby pouch, one BabyHawk Mei Tai, one Zolowear Ring Sling, and one Gypsy Mama Wrap)You could win one of each of the major types of baby carrier from Along For The Ride. Enter the contest, then head back to the main site to peruse their great collection and learn something from their

I thought I'd seen this pose before...

2008-06-20T22:55:00.003-05:00

So funny, they really do look alike! Isn't it crazy how some people have several kids who look TOTALLY different and others have several kids who look SO MUCH alike? These were taken by two different cameras in two different houses by two different people, but they look alike to me.

So sorry, I've been overwhelmed.

2008-06-20T22:21:00.002-05:00

Wow, a week without a post and so much to post about. First, an update on my brother: Lucas is doing well and in high spirits. His surgery on Wednesday went well. I'm not sure exactly what they did, but it involved plates, rods, and screws being put either in his back or his left foot. They sat him up in bed today (the first time he has been able to sit up in a week) so I think that made him

Thank You and an Update

2008-06-13T14:52:00.002-05:00

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been thinking of and/or praying for Lucas and the rest of our family! We are overwhelmed with the support. God has truly been at work in this situation (I'll blog later about some of the amazing ways He has shown up).Update on Lucas: We have more concrete information on his condition (two broken feet and several dislocated vertebrae) and have been told

We Need Your Prayers

2008-06-12T20:03:00.002-05:00

We found out this afternoon that my brother Lucas was in an accident in Barcelona, Spain. His injuries are not life-threatening, but he is in the hospital in a fair amount of pain and looking at surgeries on his back and at least one foot. He was not traveling with anyone so is alone in a foreign country whose language he does not speak. Please pray for his physical recovery and that his

A toy I look forward to playing with...

2008-06-06T16:55:00.002-05:00

...as opposed to the plastic jungle of garishly colored, brain-sucking clutter we typically call toys. I just read a post over on Z Recommends about a cool product called thumballs. Thumballs are four or six inch soft stuffed balls that have things printed on the individual panels (12 panels for 4 inch balls and 32 panels for 6 inch balls). I am particularly excited about their early learner

Speaking of rain...

2008-06-04T13:03:00.002-05:00

If you could pick any sound to capture inside a little wooden ball mean to be a child's toy, what would it be? Me? I would choose the sound that those rain sticks make. Kind of like "chshshshsh" - maybe? Spelling a sound is harder than it seems!One of my favorite blogs is Z Recommends. Over at Z Recs today they have a review for Haba Discovery Balls. They are small wooden balls that make

OK, So I'm A Freak About Weather

2008-06-04T12:45:00.002-05:00

I really have an overactive sense of self-preservation when it comes to weather. I have had nightmares about tornados since I was a kid (probably stemming from the description my half-brother gave me of living through one - a description I now recognize as totally pulling my leg). I just get a little freaked out.This is one of the many reasons I appreciate our basement (especially since we had

Great Idea - Cool Product

2008-06-02T12:07:00.002-05:00

I saw this product somewhere about a year ago and in lieu of purchasing it, I put a modified form of the idea into daily practice with Katherine. When we get to the car I have her put her hand on the rear tire while I open the door for her so that she can then climb into her carseat by herself. Again, when we are getting out of the car I take her around to Jack's side of the car and have her

I Just Wanted To Brush My Teeth

2008-05-30T15:38:00.002-05:00

...or teesh as Katherine seems to call them. Yesterday was a day of pushing limits for the big sister. We started the day with James leaving ridiculously early and Katherine coming in to sleep with Jack and I for a couple more hours (so we got up around 10am instead of 7am). When we finally did really wake up, Jack was content for a few minutes hanging out in the boppy in the middle of our bed

Cardboard Testimonies

2008-05-28T14:58:00.003-05:00

My sister-in-law sent me the link to this YouTube video. I still have goosebumps. I am trying to embed the video on the sidebar, but in case it doesn't work here is the link. This is not from my church but the stage area makes it look a lot like the church we attend. It definitely makes you think...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvDDc5RB6FQ

Memorial Weekend

2008-05-25T16:00:00.003-05:00

We have had an absolutely beautiful weekend here in Cincinnati. The temperature has been warm, but not too warm and the skies have been clear, providing lots of sunshine. The kids on our street have been outside almost non-stop (as have most of the parents). We've bbq-ed at two different friends' houses and enjoyed some great hang-time. We are so thankful for the friends that God has brought into

Simply Flirty

2008-05-21T13:50:00.002-05:00

OK, SIMPLE has done it again. Today they have a review up for Flirty Aprons. So CUTE! I have to say wearing one of these must make doing the dishes a little bit more fun. Although, now that I think of it an apron would probably be most useful when I'm baking. I'm more apt to enjoy baking rather than doing dishes anyway. Oh well, it is worth a try - anything to make dishes more exciting! I

Blog Posts After Midnight?

2008-05-18T01:28:00.003-05:00

Now I remember why my mom said she would name her book "Letters After Midnight." At about the two week mark in Jack's short life he decided that sleep in the middle of the night was overrated. In all fairness to him, I think he is exhibiting most of the signs of colic or as Dr. Sears puts it, he sounds like a "hurting baby." Poor guy is pretty gassy. I can't tell if it is something in my diet

Cool Site

2008-05-13T17:26:00.002-05:00

I just found a really cool mom blog (thanks Farrah!). It is called SIMPLE and it is full of reviews and giveaways. One of their latest review/givaways is for a really cool Growth Graph. It is like a poster-sized baby book and scrapbook all in one. I am super excited about the blog though. It looks like there are regular reviews and giveaways, not to mention great links and a ton of coupon

Beautiful Spring Day

2008-05-13T16:25:00.003-05:00

Today has been one of the most beautiful days we have seen this spring. Cincinnati weather is pretty fickle this time of year (well...most of the year) so we have had wide variations in the temperature and precipitation. But, today has been beautiful. Temp in the 70's, sunny, and just a tad breezy.I took my camera out to get some shots of Katherine and the flowers and leaves on the plants/trees

Two weeks of pictures for my 365

2008-05-11T13:03:00.007-05:00

Sleepy boy! 5/10/08 As a friend once said: Real men wear pink! 5/9/08Snug as a bug... 5/8/08 Who's wide awake in the middle of the night? 5/7/08 Awesome day at the park 5/6/08 Future babysitters 5/5/08 Playing on our very own playground 5/4/08 Multitasking 5/3/08 In my nursing throne 5/2/08 Proud Big Sister 5/1/08 Prou Mama and Daddy 4/30/08 Welcome to the world sweet boy! 4/29/08

Lots To Catch Up On

2008-05-02T19:54:00.002-05:00

Wow, this has been a crazy week! When last we "spoke" it was my anniversary, I was looking forward to an actual date with my husband, and I really wished I could welcome our baby sooner rather than later. Well, we had a wonderful date. We went to my favorite pizza place in the world, ordered the best meatball pizza around, and followed it up with some of Cincinnati's best ice cream. For those

Anniversary Thoughts

2008-04-27T11:56:00.003-05:00

Today is my 6th wedding anniversary. Some days I can't believe it has gone so quickly. Other days I feel like we've been married forever (mostly this is a good thing). I don't know if it is due to my impending anniversary or just because I am expecting kiddo #2 any day now and becoming introspective, but I have been thinking a lot the last week or so about what qualities I find attractive in a

Project 365

2008-04-23T15:49:00.002-05:00

I found a great idea on another blog the other day. Take and post at least one picture every day for an entire year. To some that may not seem like a big deal, but with a very active 2 1/2 year old and a sibling for her expected any day, this feat will sometimes seem monumental. However, I have recently (really since getting pregnant again) gotten lax in the picture-taking department.It was never

For Tricia

2008-04-22T21:07:00.003-05:00

OK, so I am very far behind on this because I am just catching up on Nathan and Tricia's story. There has been a challenge on Nathan's blog for all blogging mothers. To Post all of the things you can't wait for Tricia to experience with Gwyneth. To get caught up and understand who Tricia, Nathan and Gwyneth are please visit Nathan's website! http://www.cfhusband.blogspot.com/Nathan and Tricia, I

Get Out And Vote

2008-03-04T14:53:00.003-06:00

...even if you have to take your uncooperative 2yo with you. I would like to think that by including K in the process of voting is planting a seed on some level. Far too few people take advantage of our constitutional right to vote. With a father who majored in political science and a mother who is an attorney I hope that K will grow up with an appreciation for not only our right to vote, but

My new favorite blog to frequent...

2008-02-20T14:31:00.003-06:00

In the last year (since taking the bar exam and an increase in K's ability to play independently both allowed more time to be somewhat free) I have become addicted to several parenting blogs.My new favorite is one called How to be a Badass Dad. Although I am probably not his target audience I thoroughly enjoy his posts. He is so insightful and writes beautifully (as an English Professor should).

The funny things kids say

2007-09-27T10:23:00.001-05:00

It is amazing how K's personality is growing each day. Sometimes she says the most adult things! She is also picking up on our mannerisms and how we treat her. Example: this morning I found that the cat had gotten sick on the carpet. I proceeded to get the relevant cleaning supplies and clean it up. Not only did K enjoy being a spectator during this exercise, leaning against my leg saying "I want

2007-09-20T11:55:00.001-05:00

K playing kickball with the familyPlaying in the sand at the beach, still not a fan of the waves though!