I am not usually one to offend on purpose. I am by nature a people-pleaser and tend to keep my mouth shut rather than arguing with people I know will disagree with what I say. Especially when it comes to politics. I am not very well-spoken, and get tongue-tied and later think of things that I should have said. In my former line of work (teaching history), this happened enough times for me to learn my lesson and just keep quiet. Maybe with the power of proof-reading I will not embarrass myself too much, and get a couple things out there.
I am WAY more conservative than I used to think. I am definitively a Republican, married to a man who, unfortunately, could care less about the direction of our nation and rolls his eyes when I yell at the TV. In the quiet of my living room, I have aligned myself with "moderates" on shows like Meet the Press (which until recently I watched every Sunday morning, without fail). As this political season progresses, however, I have to admit I am so much more conservative than I thought. And old school. Examples: I don't want a woman president. I don't want a young president. I used to not be fazed by discussion of new federal laws passed and was okay with some social discussion on the federal level - I even once taught the FDR period and agreed with my students that social programs were a good thing! (Oh how that's changed!) I don't think parents of young kids should be president. (Four years ago I thought it was unimaginable that people claimed Sarah Palin could still be an active parent for her children!) Some of these things may be a result of my new role as a parent. But mostly I think it has to do with age. (maturity???)
Here's where I stand, in case you were wondering:
I am a Republican by definition of the word: I believe in little government. (Unfortunately, few Republican politicians remember that's what it means.)
I am a firm believer in the free enterprise system.
Abortion should be illegal. If we can't make that work, it should absolutely not be funded by tax dollars.
Marriage should be between a man and a woman.
I disagree with every single Republican's opinion on education.
Welfare should have time limits, and maybe drug tests, involved.
I believe the place for social welfare starts in the church and community - it's scriptural.
Let's re-write the tax system! Consider a combination of the graduated income tax or the flat tax idea?
I used to not feel that these things could be this simple. I would argue with the television, or Rick and Bubba, or whomever that there needed to be caveats in order to make it work in society. That's still probably true for most things. I guess I've seen enough federal elections to realize that the media basically chooses what the public talks about, and therefore narrows our candidates for us. (Ugh!) And I don't like that in this coming election I will basically be forced to choose between a moral, conservative-living man who does not vote or govern conservatively, or a man who votes conservatively and does not live that way. Call me crazy, but I want someone I can respect, and agree with on some things! It would help if he could manage himself in a news conference, too. Or at least be someone respectable. Can't George Washington's spirit come over someone and run for president? Oh wait - I don't believe in that.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Jesus is the Season of the Reason!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! (A little belated, I guess.)
I hope your Christmas was filled with laughter and love and surprise and little reminders that, as my nephew Ben says, "Jesus is the Season of the Reason!" He said it with such confidence and excitement, over and over, and by the time Christmas morning rolled around I started getting the phrase backwards in my own head! When that sweet three year old said it the right way at church on Christmas I was so disappointed; I liked it the other way coming from him. Our little family joined Brad's parents and sister's family for Christmas, so there were lots of folks and a LOT of toys tossed together in one house. The words controlled chaos come to mind.
We enjoyed the visit with family and friends. It made coming back "home" to Birmingham a little bittersweet though; almost like we moved again. I am so, so ready to get into a a routine here and find a playgroup for A! Any takers?
The new year, like everything else lately, snuck up on us. We had nothing fun or exciting planned, and did not stay up to see 2012 come. Now that it's January and every "news" story on television has to deal with how to keep your resolutions, I'm feeling like I need to make some. I don't usually do the whole "This year I will _____ " thing. I am not sure why I don't; there's obviously nothing wrong with having goals and making resolutions. I usually do it a few times throughout the year, committing to set my alarm every morning to get up for my quiet time, join a new Bible study, watch less TV, etc. This year, however, I am sort of making some. (How's that for being resolute, huh?)
1. Be more intentionally positive. If you know me at all, you know that this is not actually a problem I have; I'm almost always an optimist, to the point of annoying many. What I mean is to be more positive about stuff immediately around me, on purpose. I am guilty of making Brad feel bad for leading us here to Birmingham several times recently. I didn't mean to make him feel this way; I certainly don't regret the move at all. Both times I was just being honest about something going on in A and I's day, like being alone at the park, or stuck at the house, or whatever, but it came across as complaining and awful to him. I plan to be prayerfully, intentionally positive about the rest of this transition... even if it means not griping about this teeny tiny house.
2. Have the TV on less, especially when A is awake. I don't sit and watch it for long, ever, but have it on as background noise. She watches it though, so it's got to stop. Ugh.
3. Initiate conversations with strangers. Not exactly my strong suit, but it's got to help the whole making friends thing, right?
4. Pray more intentionally for A and her future. I have been somewhat diligent in begging God for her salvation, but what about the years in between, and the years after? I want to help guide who she will become, which must involve prayer for her, and for myself since she watches me and already copies things I do.
I am excited about the things God has in store for us in 2012. I have no idea about some things, but I am hopeful, and I know He has it all planned out.
Oh and #5. Continue doing A's hair as high as possible. :)
I hope your Christmas was filled with laughter and love and surprise and little reminders that, as my nephew Ben says, "Jesus is the Season of the Reason!" He said it with such confidence and excitement, over and over, and by the time Christmas morning rolled around I started getting the phrase backwards in my own head! When that sweet three year old said it the right way at church on Christmas I was so disappointed; I liked it the other way coming from him. Our little family joined Brad's parents and sister's family for Christmas, so there were lots of folks and a LOT of toys tossed together in one house. The words controlled chaos come to mind.
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| Just think - there will be more stockings before too long |
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| Lots and LOTS of presents |
The new year, like everything else lately, snuck up on us. We had nothing fun or exciting planned, and did not stay up to see 2012 come. Now that it's January and every "news" story on television has to deal with how to keep your resolutions, I'm feeling like I need to make some. I don't usually do the whole "This year I will _____ " thing. I am not sure why I don't; there's obviously nothing wrong with having goals and making resolutions. I usually do it a few times throughout the year, committing to set my alarm every morning to get up for my quiet time, join a new Bible study, watch less TV, etc. This year, however, I am sort of making some. (How's that for being resolute, huh?)
1. Be more intentionally positive. If you know me at all, you know that this is not actually a problem I have; I'm almost always an optimist, to the point of annoying many. What I mean is to be more positive about stuff immediately around me, on purpose. I am guilty of making Brad feel bad for leading us here to Birmingham several times recently. I didn't mean to make him feel this way; I certainly don't regret the move at all. Both times I was just being honest about something going on in A and I's day, like being alone at the park, or stuck at the house, or whatever, but it came across as complaining and awful to him. I plan to be prayerfully, intentionally positive about the rest of this transition... even if it means not griping about this teeny tiny house.
2. Have the TV on less, especially when A is awake. I don't sit and watch it for long, ever, but have it on as background noise. She watches it though, so it's got to stop. Ugh.
3. Initiate conversations with strangers. Not exactly my strong suit, but it's got to help the whole making friends thing, right?
4. Pray more intentionally for A and her future. I have been somewhat diligent in begging God for her salvation, but what about the years in between, and the years after? I want to help guide who she will become, which must involve prayer for her, and for myself since she watches me and already copies things I do.
I am excited about the things God has in store for us in 2012. I have no idea about some things, but I am hopeful, and I know He has it all planned out.
Oh and #5. Continue doing A's hair as high as possible. :)
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Addie peed all over my worship experience.
I personally believe that this could possibly describe all worship experiences had by parents of toddlers:
My child peed all over my worship experience.
She didn't literally pee all over it. Afterwards. On my newly-cleaned floor. After bedtime. And tracked pee down the hall.
Here's how it happened: Tonight I went to Dawson's Candlelight worship service. To say it was beautiful would be a vast understatement. I've been before, but it's been a while and I don't remember loving it as much. If you are in Birmingham tomorrow, Sunday the 18th, BE THERE. I am often moved by music; it is one way that I enjoy worshiping. I rarely cry, though. Tonight the Holy Spirit used the music, the candlelight, my week, the old man singing "Silent Night" too fast and off key, and the random row of kids holding their candles awkwardly high to move me to tears. Tonight I was reminded of why I used to live for singing. I wish I could commit to something like a choir again. But I digress...
Do you ever start doing "good" at something, and then let it go to your head? That's me. Always. The moment I feel I can check things off my list, something changes - pride? arrogance? self righteousness? - takes over and I trick myself into believing I've accomplished something on my own. When we moved here I was determined to be okay about all of it, but knew I would need the Lord's help. I have been very specific to set my alarm early enough to do my quiet time before Addie wakes up and Brad gets home from his run. I've really enjoyed reconnecting with college friend, etc. I felt like the things I had done had made our move a success. That, however, is where Satan sneaks in and takes root in our hearts in the form of bitterness. For example...
This week has been more than a little iffy. Brad's been gone all week and is coming home tonight. (Yay!) Addison is doing this somewhat new, super independent thing, and it has totally worn me out! I am not unused to Brad being gone; as a youth minister in Pensacola, he was gone several weeks each summer. Toddler Addison has made it considerably more difficult. I also felt continuously more and more bitter about being alone this week, and away from our friends, and Brad's busy work schedule coming up, etc. By Friday I was in one of those moods where you just want to stay on the couch watching (gasp!) Lifetime Christmas movies all day. The Spirit did some talking to me yesterday and today.
I was certainly ready for and in need of a reminder of what Christmas is about! When Addison and I got home from church I felt like a totally renewed person. Then dinner (and throwing food) happened. And after a shower she peed before I could get a diaper on her. And tracked it down the hall. In less than an hour and a half I was back to square one: not living as one in freedom and grace found in Jesus, but as one just barely making it through the day.
So now I am thinking in metaphors: pee = life. Just as Addie's pee took me out of the "good" place the Holy Spirit had finally put me in, life can do the same to us. We need to be on guard against the experiences that draw us away from our sweet Savior and the life He has for us. To be on guard, we have to be in the Word, and remind ourselves that He is the creator of every good thing, attitude, experience. In other words: I do nothing good on my own. There are no words to tell how I wish this came naturally for me!
I heard a song tonight that was new to me: Joy, from Seed Family Ministry. I could not write down the lyrics fast enough, but they were based out of Luke 2, when the Angel appeared to the shepherds and told them that Jesus would bring...
Joy that will be for all people.... Peace to men... on whom His favor rests.
It made me think about God's favor. Oohh sigh. How did I get this favor? These many, many blessings? Why was I lucky enough to? Oh Lord, thank you for resting your favor on me! Continue to do so.
Another song, That Night (Huff) made me think about how God the Father felt on Christmas.
And the Father rejoiced, for He did not lose His son, but regained those who had been lost.
Imagine, God rejoiced that I was returned to Him, in spite of what it would cost Him. Wow.
And now for the little toddler who "don't want too"... Addison's newest phrase leads me to believe she doesn't want to do anything. Ugh.
Now may the joy that seems to pass us all by be yours this week as you celebrate a wonderful, Holy day. Merry Christmas!
My child peed all over my worship experience.
She didn't literally pee all over it. Afterwards. On my newly-cleaned floor. After bedtime. And tracked pee down the hall.
Here's how it happened: Tonight I went to Dawson's Candlelight worship service. To say it was beautiful would be a vast understatement. I've been before, but it's been a while and I don't remember loving it as much. If you are in Birmingham tomorrow, Sunday the 18th, BE THERE. I am often moved by music; it is one way that I enjoy worshiping. I rarely cry, though. Tonight the Holy Spirit used the music, the candlelight, my week, the old man singing "Silent Night" too fast and off key, and the random row of kids holding their candles awkwardly high to move me to tears. Tonight I was reminded of why I used to live for singing. I wish I could commit to something like a choir again. But I digress...
Do you ever start doing "good" at something, and then let it go to your head? That's me. Always. The moment I feel I can check things off my list, something changes - pride? arrogance? self righteousness? - takes over and I trick myself into believing I've accomplished something on my own. When we moved here I was determined to be okay about all of it, but knew I would need the Lord's help. I have been very specific to set my alarm early enough to do my quiet time before Addie wakes up and Brad gets home from his run. I've really enjoyed reconnecting with college friend, etc. I felt like the things I had done had made our move a success. That, however, is where Satan sneaks in and takes root in our hearts in the form of bitterness. For example...
This week has been more than a little iffy. Brad's been gone all week and is coming home tonight. (Yay!) Addison is doing this somewhat new, super independent thing, and it has totally worn me out! I am not unused to Brad being gone; as a youth minister in Pensacola, he was gone several weeks each summer. Toddler Addison has made it considerably more difficult. I also felt continuously more and more bitter about being alone this week, and away from our friends, and Brad's busy work schedule coming up, etc. By Friday I was in one of those moods where you just want to stay on the couch watching (gasp!) Lifetime Christmas movies all day. The Spirit did some talking to me yesterday and today.
I was certainly ready for and in need of a reminder of what Christmas is about! When Addison and I got home from church I felt like a totally renewed person. Then dinner (and throwing food) happened. And after a shower she peed before I could get a diaper on her. And tracked it down the hall. In less than an hour and a half I was back to square one: not living as one in freedom and grace found in Jesus, but as one just barely making it through the day.
So now I am thinking in metaphors: pee = life. Just as Addie's pee took me out of the "good" place the Holy Spirit had finally put me in, life can do the same to us. We need to be on guard against the experiences that draw us away from our sweet Savior and the life He has for us. To be on guard, we have to be in the Word, and remind ourselves that He is the creator of every good thing, attitude, experience. In other words: I do nothing good on my own. There are no words to tell how I wish this came naturally for me!
I heard a song tonight that was new to me: Joy, from Seed Family Ministry. I could not write down the lyrics fast enough, but they were based out of Luke 2, when the Angel appeared to the shepherds and told them that Jesus would bring...
Joy that will be for all people.... Peace to men... on whom His favor rests.
It made me think about God's favor. Oohh sigh. How did I get this favor? These many, many blessings? Why was I lucky enough to? Oh Lord, thank you for resting your favor on me! Continue to do so.
Another song, That Night (Huff) made me think about how God the Father felt on Christmas.
And the Father rejoiced, for He did not lose His son, but regained those who had been lost.
Imagine, God rejoiced that I was returned to Him, in spite of what it would cost Him. Wow.
And now for the little toddler who "don't want too"... Addison's newest phrase leads me to believe she doesn't want to do anything. Ugh.
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| Waiting to see Santa.... She was not this excited when the moment came. |
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| Caught eating oreo peppermint bark before we were finished. |
Now may the joy that seems to pass us all by be yours this week as you celebrate a wonderful, Holy day. Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 5, 2011
My one year old likes hummus!
My one year old loves hummus! Right now I am sitting next to a very quiet - and very sticky - gal with lemon-garlic hummus all over her Christmas shirt. Addie loves to dip things, apparently anything, into any kind of dip! I believe this started with her eating waffles from her daddy's lap. She would not (and still won't) eat waffles or toast or a biscuit plain, or with jam or peanut butter or honey or something on it. She did however steal some of Brad's dipped in syrup, several days in a row.
That prompted me to offer her slices of waffles and a small cup of syrup the next day for breakfast. The rest is history - it was a hit! Addison loves to dip things. She now has two breakfast choices in her vocabulary! ("Cereeah" and "Waffwe") Yay! That was about six weeks ago, and since then the dipping craze has included ketchup for anything, salsa (even the spicy stuff!), hummus and ranch dip. I am always amazed when she eats hummus, and I keep trying to get her to choose more kid-friendly, although no less messy, dip options, such as peanut butter or cottage cheese. Today I gave her some fruit, crackers, cottage cheese and hummus. She took one look at the cheese and handed the bowl back to me, as if to say "that is too bland for me Mom."
So every dip begins with a request from her for "seebop" or "kaybop." Am I a bad mother if I do not correct these words? It is too precious to listen to her request things in her toddler language. I use the right words for most things. When she calls a catepillar a turtle, I correct her. When she points to a picture of a goat and "moos," I explain that it's actually not a cow she's seeing. When she says "peas" or "gank ooo," I repeat with "Please" or "Thank you." When she wakes up in the morning and calls out for "seebop," however, I am sincerly tempted to write the folks at Webster and request a new word be added to the 2012 dictionary. Seebop: noun, for any kind of dip.
Another new word too adorable to believe is beautiful: bweeeufull. Last night Addison pointed up to the moon and looked at me to give her a word. I told her it was the moon, and I pointed to the stars. She did well pronouncing the words herself, and repeated them while we walked around outside in the dark. She even pointed to a street lamp and called it the moon. (Close, right?) Before we came in she pointed at the moon again and said "bweeeufull." Like that was part of the moon's name. It's so amazing to be there as she sees things for the first time, and experience a part of her wonder and awe. I pray I don't forget how awesome this time at home with her is; it's so easy to get frustrated and isolated and wish I were at work instead. Especially in a new-ish town.
I believe I just saw her dip a strawberry in her hummus. yuck!
So every dip begins with a request from her for "seebop" or "kaybop." Am I a bad mother if I do not correct these words? It is too precious to listen to her request things in her toddler language. I use the right words for most things. When she calls a catepillar a turtle, I correct her. When she points to a picture of a goat and "moos," I explain that it's actually not a cow she's seeing. When she says "peas" or "gank ooo," I repeat with "Please" or "Thank you." When she wakes up in the morning and calls out for "seebop," however, I am sincerly tempted to write the folks at Webster and request a new word be added to the 2012 dictionary. Seebop: noun, for any kind of dip.
Another new word too adorable to believe is beautiful: bweeeufull. Last night Addison pointed up to the moon and looked at me to give her a word. I told her it was the moon, and I pointed to the stars. She did well pronouncing the words herself, and repeated them while we walked around outside in the dark. She even pointed to a street lamp and called it the moon. (Close, right?) Before we came in she pointed at the moon again and said "bweeeufull." Like that was part of the moon's name. It's so amazing to be there as she sees things for the first time, and experience a part of her wonder and awe. I pray I don't forget how awesome this time at home with her is; it's so easy to get frustrated and isolated and wish I were at work instead. Especially in a new-ish town.
I believe I just saw her dip a strawberry in her hummus. yuck!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Things I forgot to enjoy...
Well, we have officially been Birminghamians (Birminghamites?) for one week. We are over the stomach bug - phew! - have all the boxes stored or unpacked, and have moved stuff around in our kitchen 3 times. Busy week! As we have been running to the store (I have been to Wal-Mart 5 times in 7 days!), trying out the library, and exploring our house and neighborhood, I've been reminded of some things I forgot to enjoy while I had them...
1. Not-white kitchen and bathroom floors. Seriously folks... who in the world ever thought that textured white linoleum in the kitchen was a good idea??? I am going to have to mop these things every day!
2. A quiet house. I kinda thought our home in Pensacola was noisy. NOPE! Yesterday A woke up early from a nap. In order to get her to go back to sleep I had to be completely silent: no drying my hair, starting dinner, watching TV, talking to the phone, or anything. I didn't really appreciate how nice a quiet, non- squeaky-floor, -creaky-doors, well insulated house was!
3. A quiet corner lot. I love, love the location of this rental. We can literally walk one block to a pharmacy, coffee shop, ice cream shop, pizza place, Mexican food, BBQ, and shops! It's so close to everything! However, that means lots of traffic. When the near-by middle school lets out, we get lots of kids in our front yard! Poor Rosco is going to have blood pressure issues from barking! The teacher in me almost came out yesterday when this chubby kid was walking back from the ice cream parlor and came within two feet of our front steps. He almost walked right into A! I considered giving him a "talkin-to," but thought better of it.
4. Play dates on rainy days. I mean, I enjoyed these things every time we met with our friends. This week it rained for two days straight... A and I thought we would go crazy! We missed friends nearby we could meet to take up a few hours with.
Here are a few snaps from our last play date before leaving town:
So I miss all the things I forgot to enjoy in Pensacola, and hope we find some of them again when we find a place of our own here in town. In the mean time, we're coming up with a new schedule, which today involved keeping A up a little past her naptime. She let me know when she was tired, though.
Happy Thanksgiving! Or, as Addie would say "gobble gobble"
1. Not-white kitchen and bathroom floors. Seriously folks... who in the world ever thought that textured white linoleum in the kitchen was a good idea??? I am going to have to mop these things every day!
2. A quiet house. I kinda thought our home in Pensacola was noisy. NOPE! Yesterday A woke up early from a nap. In order to get her to go back to sleep I had to be completely silent: no drying my hair, starting dinner, watching TV, talking to the phone, or anything. I didn't really appreciate how nice a quiet, non- squeaky-floor, -creaky-doors, well insulated house was!
3. A quiet corner lot. I love, love the location of this rental. We can literally walk one block to a pharmacy, coffee shop, ice cream shop, pizza place, Mexican food, BBQ, and shops! It's so close to everything! However, that means lots of traffic. When the near-by middle school lets out, we get lots of kids in our front yard! Poor Rosco is going to have blood pressure issues from barking! The teacher in me almost came out yesterday when this chubby kid was walking back from the ice cream parlor and came within two feet of our front steps. He almost walked right into A! I considered giving him a "talkin-to," but thought better of it.
4. Play dates on rainy days. I mean, I enjoyed these things every time we met with our friends. This week it rained for two days straight... A and I thought we would go crazy! We missed friends nearby we could meet to take up a few hours with.
Here are a few snaps from our last play date before leaving town:
Happy Thanksgiving! Or, as Addie would say "gobble gobble"
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Downsizing Stinks!
Downsizing stinks! Not for the obvious reasons - that you have less space. I have no problem with a smaller living area, fewer rooms, and zero counter space. I can function (barely) in a kitchen about 1/4 of the size of my kitchen in Pensacola. I can deal with one bathroom, and even smaller closet space than before. Brad and I are both organized and we can both be minimalists. (Brad would probably disagree with this; my version of "minimal" is just not the same is his.)The reason I say "downsizing stinks" is because we don't have easy access to our stuff! Some examples: We cannot find the lids to any of my pots and pans. My favorite hurricane to use on our dining table is missing in action. Brad's favorite coffee mug is stored somewhere. I won't be doing a lot of Christmas decorating, to avoid getting all of it out.
We talked all of this out before leaving town, and I labeled as many things as possible for the movers: the china cabinet and bookshelves were marked "storage;" we moved anything we wanted access to out of the guest bedroom and let them store everything in there; etc. The movers were great to mark things appropriately, but I think that things like lids and small pyrex dishes were put into boxes with other items to take up space... now I can't find them. Poor Brad had our storage area organized so well until I made him take it all down to help me hunt for these silly lids! We never found them, but Missy lent us a couple of hers to borrow.
I forgot how much I love the location of this street, though. We can walk around the corner to wonderful restaurants and a coffee shop. We are less than a mile from a great park and library and more shops and food. Everything is so convenient. We are considering rethinking where we want to buy when it comes time for that!
Other things to note: the dreaded Stomach Bug attacked on our way out of town. Literally as the movers were loading our truck, Addison threw up. Later that day, as I was driving up here, I felt worse and worse, and wanted to die by the time I was in Birmingham. (You would to if you came that close to barfing in a stall in Wal-Mart on Lakeshore Drive... not exactly the cleanest toilet to be crouched over, if you know what I mean.) Brad and Bob have thankfully avoided it, but the Bug still plagues Missy in Pensacola and me here in Birmingham. A is getting acclimated to her new room and our home... the rainy weather today has forced that a little. She suddenly says "gank oo" (or Thank you, in English) any time you hand her something - so sweet! She and I tried out story time at the Homewood Library... she made it through one story, but is a little rambunctious for more than that.
Brad is ready to start work tomorrow! He is excited to get re acclimated to Dawson and the Rec Center. A and I are looking for some pre-Thanksgiving projects to keep us busy in our new little home! Any ideas???
We talked all of this out before leaving town, and I labeled as many things as possible for the movers: the china cabinet and bookshelves were marked "storage;" we moved anything we wanted access to out of the guest bedroom and let them store everything in there; etc. The movers were great to mark things appropriately, but I think that things like lids and small pyrex dishes were put into boxes with other items to take up space... now I can't find them. Poor Brad had our storage area organized so well until I made him take it all down to help me hunt for these silly lids! We never found them, but Missy lent us a couple of hers to borrow.
I forgot how much I love the location of this street, though. We can walk around the corner to wonderful restaurants and a coffee shop. We are less than a mile from a great park and library and more shops and food. Everything is so convenient. We are considering rethinking where we want to buy when it comes time for that!
Other things to note: the dreaded Stomach Bug attacked on our way out of town. Literally as the movers were loading our truck, Addison threw up. Later that day, as I was driving up here, I felt worse and worse, and wanted to die by the time I was in Birmingham. (You would to if you came that close to barfing in a stall in Wal-Mart on Lakeshore Drive... not exactly the cleanest toilet to be crouched over, if you know what I mean.) Brad and Bob have thankfully avoided it, but the Bug still plagues Missy in Pensacola and me here in Birmingham. A is getting acclimated to her new room and our home... the rainy weather today has forced that a little. She suddenly says "gank oo" (or Thank you, in English) any time you hand her something - so sweet! She and I tried out story time at the Homewood Library... she made it through one story, but is a little rambunctious for more than that.
Brad is ready to start work tomorrow! He is excited to get re acclimated to Dawson and the Rec Center. A and I are looking for some pre-Thanksgiving projects to keep us busy in our new little home! Any ideas???
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
shout out
We are leaving town tomorrow. The packers boxed up all of our belongings today, and will load them in a truck tomorrow; Brad and I will follow them north. Sniff sniff. I've been in denial about how sad this is for weeks! The first time I tell Addison we are going for a walk and she asks for "Amy, Will?" I will be sad. When I tell her we are going to meet some friends and she says "Henrah?" I may cry. When I ask her if she wants to go to the park and she says "Emma?" and I have to tell her we're going by ourselves, it will be lonely. The first time she asks for Brammy I will definitely cry! Not because I think we will never have friends to play with, or will be lonely for long, but simply because I am sad to not see some sweet folks every week.
I've written over and over on here about how I have been abundantly blessed by my friends, both here in Pensacola and in the past. It feels a little cheesy to say this, but I don't express it very often. I have been ministered to in a profound way, especially in the last year, and I am feeling like perhaps this next season in our lives will be a chance for me to love on others in the way so many have loved on us. So I'm taking a few moments to give a shout out to some sweet friends who I am so sorry to leave behind. (In true obsessive-compulsive fashion, I'm listing them in alphabetical order.)
Ali - I am so glad you were never mad that you gave me your phone number! I sort of feel like we have not stopped talking since we met. I love how fast you talk; how you refer to "Friends" characters as if they're your close, personal pals - it allows me to do the same; how you seek to honor your husby in all things; and how you love your students and want what's best for them. I love that we share a birth- month (well, really a week), and that we both enjoy celebrating the entire time with food. Thanks for "getting" me. I feel like we were meant to be friends. I love your kid. I love that you want a bunch of kids because, let's face it - they're just going to get cuter. Can I selfishly wish Ben would want to go to UAB for med school?
Amy - Officially you've been my friend for a long time, but I don't feel like I really took advantage of you until the last year! How much time I have wasted! You are such a good, sincere friend. You always remember everything that's going on with people, and are always so careful about checking up. (How do you do this? I am always in awe.) I strive to be a friend like this. You are tireless in your quest to be a good mom: you look for the best ideas or things for Will, and share whatever you find. You are absolutely the best researcher I know. If I ever have a question about any issue, you either already know an answer or you look high and low to find it. Also, I love that I have my own etiquette expert... so perfect for a gal like me who knows little of these things. You have always been like family for Brad, and I'm so thankful for Addie's "Aunt Amy!"
Frency & Jana - Ahh, my surprise friends! How thankful I am for our mutual friends who got us to hang out together! The stories you share about parenting and wifery are stuffed with wisdom and humor! Thank you for always opening up, sometimes sharing too much, and being okay with me doing the same.
Gran-Jan - With my sweet in-laws in town who do so much for us, you would think I have no need for another mom figure in my life. I am so thankful that you forced your way into that position, though! You are so, so thoughtful. I want to be the kind of person who shows up with soup whenever a friend is sick. You and Glen are role models for Brad and I, and we love all three of your kids. I am overwhelmed with thankfulness for your family.
Kara - I love that one of my friends has girls Addison's age! I have so enjoyed getting to know you this year. You want to do what's best for your kiddos, and never stop asking questions to try to find out why, how, or how to find something better. Thanks for sharing your girls with me.
Leslie & Lindsay - Neither of you had any connection with me when we moved here, but you immediately opened your arms and I felt like I had known you forever! You are such sincere friends, always quick with a prayer or word of encouragement or phone call to check up me. I am so, so thankful to you for being generous with your time, love, encouragement, and prayers.
Lindsey - I love your laugh. If anything tickles you the right way, you laugh all-out. I want to live all parts of my life like this. You just say what you think, and ask direct questions, and I am never caught off guard because I've come to be grateful for friends who talk about all these aspects of life ("I heard you were pregant?" Haha!). I like to think of you as an old "double friend:" Brad's friend from high school, mine from college, and ours together now. I love your crazy kiddos, and hope that our babies can grow to be so close.
Missy - No, I can't really say I'm leaving my mother in law "behind;" I know you'll be looking for any excuse to come to Bham. I can't list the ladies I'm going to miss without including you, though. I tell people all the time how thankful I am for my in-laws, but do I tell you? Yes, you raised and prayed for the man I love, but you also took me in and have always treated me as if I was your own child. Since moving to Pensacola you have also become my good friend, and I am so thankful for our relationship.
Stephanie - How can you ask "what are my gifts?" What a ridiculous question! In the brief time I have known you, I have experienced first hand several unique and beautiful gifts that you share so frequently. Leadership - you jumped right into our Sunday school class and we all followed suit! You lead at so many other things, lovingly and with the rare combination of good ideas and follow through. Hospitality - you open your home so often, make others feel comfortable whenever they're around you, and are a great cook. You are a wonderful mother. Honesty - I believe this is a gift, and I'm blessed to have several folks around me who have this gift. I love, love, love having a friend who I can email about something God showed or reminded me, or a crazy thing I am nervous about, or something new we should pray for or against. I have not had that in a while, and I am so thankful that you took the initiative to get this started. Thank you for challenging me.
I've written over and over on here about how I have been abundantly blessed by my friends, both here in Pensacola and in the past. It feels a little cheesy to say this, but I don't express it very often. I have been ministered to in a profound way, especially in the last year, and I am feeling like perhaps this next season in our lives will be a chance for me to love on others in the way so many have loved on us. So I'm taking a few moments to give a shout out to some sweet friends who I am so sorry to leave behind. (In true obsessive-compulsive fashion, I'm listing them in alphabetical order.)
Ali - I am so glad you were never mad that you gave me your phone number! I sort of feel like we have not stopped talking since we met. I love how fast you talk; how you refer to "Friends" characters as if they're your close, personal pals - it allows me to do the same; how you seek to honor your husby in all things; and how you love your students and want what's best for them. I love that we share a birth- month (well, really a week), and that we both enjoy celebrating the entire time with food. Thanks for "getting" me. I feel like we were meant to be friends. I love your kid. I love that you want a bunch of kids because, let's face it - they're just going to get cuter. Can I selfishly wish Ben would want to go to UAB for med school?
Amy - Officially you've been my friend for a long time, but I don't feel like I really took advantage of you until the last year! How much time I have wasted! You are such a good, sincere friend. You always remember everything that's going on with people, and are always so careful about checking up. (How do you do this? I am always in awe.) I strive to be a friend like this. You are tireless in your quest to be a good mom: you look for the best ideas or things for Will, and share whatever you find. You are absolutely the best researcher I know. If I ever have a question about any issue, you either already know an answer or you look high and low to find it. Also, I love that I have my own etiquette expert... so perfect for a gal like me who knows little of these things. You have always been like family for Brad, and I'm so thankful for Addie's "Aunt Amy!"
Frency & Jana - Ahh, my surprise friends! How thankful I am for our mutual friends who got us to hang out together! The stories you share about parenting and wifery are stuffed with wisdom and humor! Thank you for always opening up, sometimes sharing too much, and being okay with me doing the same.
Gran-Jan - With my sweet in-laws in town who do so much for us, you would think I have no need for another mom figure in my life. I am so thankful that you forced your way into that position, though! You are so, so thoughtful. I want to be the kind of person who shows up with soup whenever a friend is sick. You and Glen are role models for Brad and I, and we love all three of your kids. I am overwhelmed with thankfulness for your family.
Kara - I love that one of my friends has girls Addison's age! I have so enjoyed getting to know you this year. You want to do what's best for your kiddos, and never stop asking questions to try to find out why, how, or how to find something better. Thanks for sharing your girls with me.
Leslie & Lindsay - Neither of you had any connection with me when we moved here, but you immediately opened your arms and I felt like I had known you forever! You are such sincere friends, always quick with a prayer or word of encouragement or phone call to check up me. I am so, so thankful to you for being generous with your time, love, encouragement, and prayers.
Lindsey - I love your laugh. If anything tickles you the right way, you laugh all-out. I want to live all parts of my life like this. You just say what you think, and ask direct questions, and I am never caught off guard because I've come to be grateful for friends who talk about all these aspects of life ("I heard you were pregant?" Haha!). I like to think of you as an old "double friend:" Brad's friend from high school, mine from college, and ours together now. I love your crazy kiddos, and hope that our babies can grow to be so close.
Missy - No, I can't really say I'm leaving my mother in law "behind;" I know you'll be looking for any excuse to come to Bham. I can't list the ladies I'm going to miss without including you, though. I tell people all the time how thankful I am for my in-laws, but do I tell you? Yes, you raised and prayed for the man I love, but you also took me in and have always treated me as if I was your own child. Since moving to Pensacola you have also become my good friend, and I am so thankful for our relationship.
Stephanie - How can you ask "what are my gifts?" What a ridiculous question! In the brief time I have known you, I have experienced first hand several unique and beautiful gifts that you share so frequently. Leadership - you jumped right into our Sunday school class and we all followed suit! You lead at so many other things, lovingly and with the rare combination of good ideas and follow through. Hospitality - you open your home so often, make others feel comfortable whenever they're around you, and are a great cook. You are a wonderful mother. Honesty - I believe this is a gift, and I'm blessed to have several folks around me who have this gift. I love, love, love having a friend who I can email about something God showed or reminded me, or a crazy thing I am nervous about, or something new we should pray for or against. I have not had that in a while, and I am so thankful that you took the initiative to get this started. Thank you for challenging me.
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