tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77837754613780709302024-03-13T11:06:45.860-04:00My Heart, My HomeJust an everyday, casual sort of place. Think of your favorite pair of jeans and an old t-shirt from college. Throw in a nice warm mug of hot chocolate or tea and unwind. Just like chats with a familiar friend, the conversation tends to ramble a bit, and that's fine by me.Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-58124949861903066642011-08-18T21:54:00.006-04:002011-08-18T23:01:00.506-04:00Caleb is 2!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5M3NaqBZKs/Tk3POCU5IVI/AAAAAAAAAro/yzLGfFywWp0/s1600/DSC00415.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642393748214718802" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5M3NaqBZKs/Tk3POCU5IVI/AAAAAAAAAro/yzLGfFywWp0/s400/DSC00415.JPG" /></a>
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<br /><div>As of a few weeks ago, Caleb is now officially two years old. I can't believe it! This year has gone faster than his first year did. How is that possible? This year has definitely been filled with "big boy" milestones and adventures. What did July 2010 through July 2011 bring?
<br />
<br />In no particular order: </div>
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>running</li>
<br /><li>jumping, off of anything! </li>
<br /><li>sliding down big kid slides all by himself</li>
<br /><li>being able to let him play by himself on playgrounds(!) </li>
<br /><li>mimicking <em>everything</em> </li>
<br /><li>obeying simple commands</li>
<br /><li>his first haircut, on his second birthday</li>
<br /><li>finding out he'd be a big brother</li>
<br /><li>moving in with his grandparents</li>
<br /><li>climbing stairs all by himself</li>
<br /><li>making sentences; his longest so far, "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse is coming right back!" </li>
<br /><li>identifying letters and phonemes</li>
<br /><li>sitting in a booster seat</li>
<br /><li>using fork and spoon</li>
<br /><li>first airplane rides</li>
<br /><li>tubing with Daddy</li>
<br /><li>making jokes and entertaining those around him</li>
<br /><li>saying "please" and "thank you" </li>
<br /><li>giving hugs while saying "awww"</li>
<br /><li>praying with hands together and head bowed</li>
<br /><li>potty training</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p>Oh how I wish I could remember <em>everything</em> he's accomplished this year, but these are some of the highlights..i.e. what my pregnant brain can recollect. I know every mom says this, but I am just over the moon proud of my son. He lights up my life, and has brought us more joy than we could have ever imagined. I have enjoyed this past year with him, so much more than his first; simply because his personality is now shining through. </p>
<br /><p>It brings me such happiness seeing him discover new things and being challenged. Moreover, I am grateful to God for allowing us to parent him. All of his little quirks and mannerisms fit our family so well. From his love of food to being a cuddly boy and rough and tumble self, he is <em>ours.</em> And I wouldn't have it any other way. </p>
<br /><p>God has helped me greatly this year by increasing my patience with Caleb, and I'd say children in general. I pray it will only continue to improve with each day. He has also instilled in me the sacred calling of being a mother to Caleb. The intentionality with raising a godly child is such an immense and essential task. I can't leave it up to our church, or his Sunday school teachers, or books. One of my prayers when I was pregnant with him was that he would obey God's Word and tell others about Him. Faith is no different than other life lessons when it comes to being "caught, not taught." Even though we teach him Biblical truths, we know as parents that modeling it does far more for him than anything. I want him to know that Mommy and Daddy's God is real, and that our faith is too. </p>
<br /><p>He amazes me with his simple, but profound ways of learning about faith. A few months ago, he picked up a Bible and said matter of factly, "Bible. God. Love." A few weeks ago when I asked him to obey a command, he said, "No." I then asked him, "What would Jesus want you to do?" He replied, "Obey." Just this morning, he picked up his toy cell phone and began talking away. "Caleb," I asked, "Who are you talking to?" He said, "God!" then continued on his way. Tonight we did a sing-along of "Jesus loves me." Let me tell you, it is a precious thing to hear your little boy sing, "He is <strong>strong</strong>!" </p>
<br /><p>We try our best to use those everyday, teachable moments to help him see God more clearly. And as a parent, I see my desperate need for <em>grace</em> now more than ever. I remember hearing a friend praying over her little girl a few years ago..."Lord, let her see You and know You, despite my sins and failures." She was crying while praying this, and I will never forget that moment. Because <em>I</em> too, can now understand that plea. </p>Proverbs 7:1-3 ESV, "My son, keep my words and treasure up my commandments with you; keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye; bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart."<p></p>
<br />Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-229709420500030562011-07-07T09:10:00.010-04:002011-07-08T15:07:43.818-04:00The Specky post<div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P15kAlHlmLM/ThdT1E0cnbI/AAAAAAAAArY/O9ixU9hxAGI/s1600/DSC06157.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627058430714617266" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P15kAlHlmLM/ThdT1E0cnbI/AAAAAAAAArY/O9ixU9hxAGI/s400/DSC06157.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div>I have totally succumbed to the 'second-child' syndrome already. It's happening, folks. And the poor kid isn't even born yet! It certainly isn't because <em>I don't care</em> or <em>I'm not excited.</em> Oh, I am, I really can't wait to meet this little one. It's just that the big brother in the house keeps me conveniently distracted. So without further postponement, let's talk about Speck, baby....</div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><br /><div><strong>Who is "Specky?"</strong> As with our 2 other little babes in utero, we had nicknames from the beginning with them. Before we knew Caleb was a boy, his nicknames were his corresponding size in fruit by week...i.e. poppy seed, blueberry, raspberry, plum. And with our second child, its nickname was and always will be "little seed." So, when #3 blissfully came along, I began thinking of tiny things...and thus little "Speck" or "Specky" was named. The <em>complete</em> nickname is "Specky McSpeckerson." I often create fake last names with <em>Mc-?-er-son.</em> Don't ask :) </div><br /><div><strong>When is the due date? </strong>Somewhere between late November and early December, Lord willing. Caleb was born 5 days before his EDD. </div><br /><div><strong>Is it a boy or a girl? </strong>We don't know! We (meaning <em>me</em>) really desired a surprise delivery this time. This whole pregnancy has been more laidback than my first, so it just felt like it would be fun to have this awesome surprise in 9 months. </div><br /><div><strong>I can't believe you don't wanna know!</strong> I know; me either. </div><br /><div><strong>Do you have names picked out? </strong>Yes, both first and middles for either boy or girl. At this point, I think we're waiting to reveal them until the birth. </div><br /><div><strong>How are you feeling? </strong>Awesome, really. In the first trimester, I experienced nausea for the first time (never had it with Caleb), and was extremely fatigued. The latter probably due to chasing around a rambunctious toddler this time. </div><br /><div><strong>Have you felt the baby move?</strong> Yes, and I was able to recognize the sensation sooner this time from experience. I felt little "bubbles" around week 15, but wasn't truly certain. Around week 16, I was positive that they were indeed little jabs and left hooks. Brent has been able to feel Specky move too. Very cool! Specky seems to be just as active as big brother was. </div><br /><div><strong>Does Caleb know about Specky? </strong>Yes, to the degree that an almost 2 year old can. It's the most precious thing when he asks to "Kiss baby?" We are learning to be gentle with a babydoll, and showing kindness to it. He is learning to entertain himself and play independently. </div><br /><div><strong>Anything else to share? </strong>Well, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity actually...my sister is also pregnant and we are due <em>10 days apart</em>! My parents are really excited about gaining two grandchildren within days of each other. It's amazing to think they will have 5 grandkids at Christmastime! </div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627058755994000418" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0arORlaU3Qw/ThdUIAlGHCI/AAAAAAAAArg/5d9X2-Xvl1g/s400/DSC00296.JPG" /></div></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-12198908010594422612011-06-16T16:01:00.005-04:002011-06-16T16:57:25.384-04:00Goodbye, old FriendI can't believe it's been over 14 years since the day I met you. You were the shyest little thing, but had such a cute innocence about you. It was love at first sight, and I knew you would be <em>my </em>dog.<br /><br />When we asked the shelter manager if we could visit with you, he walked ahead of us, loudly unlocking the chain-link door to your pen. You were the dog who cowered in the corner, trusting no one and fearing everything. When he pulled your reluctant self out, instincts kicked in and you immediately ran away! My mom and I were shocked, but the manager reassured us there was a fence on around the property, so you wouldn't be able to get far.<br /><br /><br />I think we paid $25 for you; a bargain for love. My dad was surprised to see a furball of a puppy arrive home in his garage. This wouldn't be the first time a dog had lived in this house. You were #3, and you had some big paws to fill. I remember the first few days and weeks, you mostly hid in corners, under tables and beds, anywhere you felt safe and protected. Your chocolate brown puppy eyes were framed by the softest, long fur. You looked like a bear cub. It took years before you outgrew your mistrust of people, especially men. But once you did, you were a friendly dog that enjoyed lots of bacon treats, runs on the leash, and unexpected runs <em>off</em> the leash. No matter how many times you enjoyed a joyrun, we always managed to catch you and haul you home.<br /><br /><br />Christmas mornings were a special day for you. Yes, you did have your very own stocking, filled with a random smattering of pigs' ears, balls, and other chewy things. But that was not your most coveted item. Of <em>all</em> the morsels of human food you've ever laid mouth on, it <em>still</em> and will <em>always</em> be that a <em>lovefeast bun</em> is your favorite taste. You behaved like a rabid dog once your nose caught the sweet, yeasty aroma of a bun that all of us traditionally ate around the Christmas tree. You'd leap onto the couch, and attempt stealing it, yes, even from our very lips!<br />Every year, you get to enjoy an entire lovefeast bun. And we love seeing you scarf it down as fast as you can.<br /><br /><br />You've done a lot more putting up with me, than I with you. You watched my tears fall and heart ache through high school at times, and were the perfect small shoulders to cry upon. You just listened and gave me a reassuring lick at times. We sat on the stairs many a time together, just <em>being</em>. There came a day in late summer 2001, when I had to leave you for an extended time. While I was away studying and making new friends at college, you kept Mom and Dad company while they learned to handle the empty nest. I'd call home and ask how you were doing. And Dad's constant response was, "We find her at your door, pawing to get in. So we open it, and she enjoys lying on the floor or your bed." I'm sorry you couldn't understand, Girl. I always loved coming home from college and being quickly greeted by you. I missed having a dog in my daily life.<br /><br /><br />Four years later, I moved back home to you. We had a new human to love, you and I. He was going to be your new Master and Friend. On September 3, 2006, I married him, and even you played a role in the wedding reception. Due to the constraints of the day, there was no way to have you physically present there, but Dad brought a stuffed animal proxy to remind me of you.<br /><br />In the weeks and months that followed, we enjoyed being a new family together, taking walks down our neighborhood together. You never met a human who didn't like you. Elderly people took to your gentle and docile nature. And you are quite tolerant with the the little folks too, the ones who <em>really</em> can't seem to get enough of you.<br /><br /><br />Fast forward to summer 2009, and both of our worlds were turned radically upside down. There was yet another new human to love, this time, a Playmate. At the beginning, you were the calm in the chaos...lying down near my feet as your new playmate would wail and wail. I couldn't understand...why does she choose to endure this loud crying when she could leave the room and hide somewhere (as I desperately desired to do)? But you were choosing <em>us. </em>You've developed a very strong need to generally be with us. Not necessarily interacting with us, but you've just gotta be in the same room.<br /><br /><br />As the Playmate grew, my one on one time with you seemed to be quickly diminishing. He's not as chill as you are, and he requires a lot of attention. But you seemed to be okay with it, in your old age. Sleeping most of the day and enjoying short walks outside. The Playmate started getting mobile and thinking of you as his new favorite toy. I was never concerned that you would ever hurt him, mostly because at your old age, you no longer had teeth! But also because you're just a sweet dog.<br /><br /><br />He picked up on your name soon after his first words were said. And even now, tries to call you with commands. But, sadly, your ears no longer hear his playful calls. He wants to wrestle and tumble with you, but your hips can't handle that anymore. He's finally learned to be <em>gentle</em> with you, stroking your soft fur. And just yesterday crawled under your belly through his own <em>tunnel.</em> These are the memories I'll miss. He loves you so much. He talks about you, asks about you, and it will hurt me to hear him say all those sweet words in his speech.<br /><br /><br />There comes a time in life, when old age takes over, when the daily things that took no thought or effort, seem to begin to take a toll. I want you to know, that <em>you are loved. </em>Tomorrow will be one of the hardest days of my life. I have to say goodbye. And I won't hear your collar jingling anymore or get to call you "Fishbreath" any longer. We've had a good run together, you and I. But I rather not wait until the bitter end when you're no longer yourself completely. I know you can't possibly understand what's going on. You're so trusting now, not the dog I met 14 years ago. But I promise, I'm not trying to betray you or give up on you. You're a sweet dog who will never leave my heart. You will always be the dog with a million nicknames...Beana, Bean, Quigley, Cubbina, Cub, JaBeana, Nina... but in my mind, you're just <em>Cubbie. </em><br /><br /><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><em>I love you, old girl. </em><br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618922169587110802" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOoyxzxC6k0/Tfpr8WLOk5I/AAAAAAAAArA/OXait2Ya670/s400/DSC04370.JPG" />Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-88671149806929104752011-06-04T10:48:00.006-04:002011-06-04T11:30:46.079-04:00Much to catch up...since it's been almost 4 months since I last postedAhh, neglecting the blog. Not sure why it's taken me this long to actually log into Blogger and type something. Here's what been's happening:<br /><br /><strong>End of March</strong>- found out we're pregnant again! Yay! Truly an answered prayer, since we lost a little one back in the Fall. I've had my fill of worry, especially anticipating the first ultrasound at 8 weeks, which is when we discovered there were problems with our 2nd baby. Praise the Lord, this time, we saw a steady heart beat of 162 bpm. The growth looked fine, and a huge weight was lifted off of our shoulders. I know there are no guarantees, and every day, it's a matter of trusting the Lord and HIS plan, not ours.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614384794040999458" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ee52VSplaXo/TepNOVErHiI/AAAAAAAAAqo/1t_GhChVCV4/s400/DSC05605.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>We also spent a wonderful week visiting Brent's mom and stepdad in Florida. Thankfully the temps weren't too hot yet. Caleb loved all of the extra attention from Nana and Grandpapa. We do not get to see them as often as we'd like, so it was equally special to inform them of the baby in person. I had a rough time (and that's putting it gently) flying solo with Caleb down and back from FL. Motion sickness got to me both times, and Caleb wasn't having it on our return flight. Yes, I was <em>that</em> mom crying in her seat, praying that the flight would. just. be. over. </div><br /><br /><div><strong>April</strong>: We celebrated my 28th birthday with a very special weekend of seeing Cirque du Soleil's Alegria, dinner at Olive Garden, and shopping at nearby outlets. Did I mention Caleb was happily at home with his grandparents? :) </div><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614385489164038178" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VnskTxD_dvY/TepN2ym68CI/AAAAAAAAAqw/q1gCWzhbyo8/s400/DSC05765.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>Speaking of grandparents, Caleb just got a whole lot closer to my parents, since we moved in with them! Due to our condo still up for sale, we thought it would be easier to live with them than deal with urgent house showings, and to help during the pregnancy. </div><br /><br /><div><strong>May</strong>: Finally feeling settled in at my parents' house. Things are unpacked, and Caleb seemed to adjust to having extra people and new things around. He loves being outside most of the time nowadays; a luxury compared to living in the condo. Mid-May, we enjoyed a fun day at the Greek Festival with Brent's parents. Caleb loved the loud music, food, and yelling, "Opa!" It's an annual tradition that we love. For Memorial Day weekend, we spent the entire time with Brent's parents and celebrated his sister's birthday. Caleb sure enjoyed all the chasing and playtime with Grandpa and Grandma. </div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614386325610698946" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3_kbXadvpE/TepOnenWGMI/AAAAAAAAAq4/I0m3eTjjEY8/s400/DSC05781.JPG" /><br /><br /><div><strong>June</strong>: We've already enjoyed some pool time with friends and a visit to the science museum. </div><br /><div>More fun to come, I'm sure. </div><br /><div></div></div></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-33307347609446826812011-02-16T11:07:00.001-05:002011-02-16T11:07:00.769-05:00Simple requestsAll day long, between toddler-talk and whines, sweet Bubster is making requests to me. "Muck! Muck!" (milk). "nack! nack!" (snack). "tv! tv!" (I'm rather embarassed at that one). The other day, while restraining him on his changing table with one hand, grabbing a wipe and diaper with the other, he made another request.<br /><br />"Book! Book!" I quickly grabbed a book from his shelf and said, "Thank you for such a simple request, Caleb." While wiping his tush, I began to think about requests. More specifically, what involves honoring a request. The person who is asked of, either has the power to honor a request or not. Some are simple, some are complex.<br /><br />I had this awesome realization that <strong>there are no difficult requests for God</strong>. <strong>Everything is simple for Him.</strong> Hallelujah! It doesn't matter if your request would require Him to move Heaven and Earth or make it stop raining for three and a half years....He is more than able.<br /><br /><em>What does God's Word have to say about requests?<br /></em><br /><strong>Luke 18:27</strong>, "But he [Jesus] said, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."<br /><br /><strong>James 5:16-18</strong>, "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops."<br /><br /><strong>Philippians 4:6-7</strong>, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."<br /><br />Let's get real here though, just because you may ask God of something, and it doesn't happen necessarily as you would expect...that does not mean that He is unable. Rather He has the best plan in mind. Also, be sure to examine your motives, as James explains.<br /><br /><strong>James 4:2-3</strong>, "You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."<br /><br />Just bask/savor/enjoy/delight in the truth that God is <em>able</em>. When your loved one is dying, when you get called into your boss's office, when no money is leftover after paying the bills, when your kids have left you running ragged and bruised....<em>when you're a sinner, in need of a loving Savior. He is able.<br /><br /></em><strong>Hebrews 7:23-26,</strong> "Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore <em>he is able</em> to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens." (<em>emphasis mine)</em>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-60919276005228189862011-02-14T10:23:00.002-05:002011-02-14T11:04:30.662-05:00Love-ly food<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C_bnuYkRJhg/TVlJVGvfuHI/AAAAAAAAAqM/boA_UmBm6pU/s1600/DSC05219.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C_bnuYkRJhg/TVlJVGvfuHI/AAAAAAAAAqM/boA_UmBm6pU/s400/DSC05219.JPG" /></a></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px">Caleb's Valentine breakfast </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pSu0WFTU5L0/TVlJVTIcPDI/AAAAAAAAAqU/vZDwQsR_ZFE/s1600/DSC05215.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pSu0WFTU5L0/TVlJVTIcPDI/AAAAAAAAAqU/vZDwQsR_ZFE/s400/DSC05215.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px">Cupcakes with pink fluffy buttercream frosting</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98JJMKynCxo/TVlJVR9rWpI/AAAAAAAAAqc/g2ymV_lAzQw/s1600/DSC05181.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98JJMKynCxo/TVlJVR9rWpI/AAAAAAAAAqc/g2ymV_lAzQw/s400/DSC05181.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px">Addictive rolled sugar cookies</div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-8039069198369450882011-01-14T10:40:00.004-05:002011-01-14T11:43:22.439-05:00Hi from CalebHey everyone,<br /><br />It's Caleb here, and I thought you may wanna hear from me since it's been awhile. Last time when Mama updated, I'd recently taken to walking. Now I love to run! And jump! And gallop! Mama and Babbie (one of my grandmas) had to chase me around Borders the other day to get me. I thought it was really fun, but their faces didn't look so happy.<br /><br /><br /><br />Mama calls me "Taz" some days, she says I'm a "master of disaster." What does <em>that </em>mean? I mean, usually I just dump all my bins of toys around, dump my ball pit, and drag clothes and other random things I find. She is teaching me how to clean up my toys before bathtime at night now. I like to help! I help in other ways too, like using my hammer alongside Dada while working on the hardwood floors. And I like to take tissues and help "cwean." Mama loves it when I help. She says I'm a big boy now.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562078935357937138" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TTB5UpKxVfI/AAAAAAAAAqA/suFaeaUSwJA/s400/DSC05083.JPG" /></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Making my "cheeser" face on my new trike</em></span></p><span style="font-size:85%;"><em></em><p align="left"><br /></span>I've been learning so many new words now: colors like "puh-ple" and "yah-low", (s)"nack", Bible, "seepy" (sleepy), "bok" (box). Mama thinks it's so cute when I open a hymnal and sing "la la la!" Three of my favorite books right now are "Pat the Bunny," (which I call it "Paul" after one of the characters), "The Telephone Book," (which I call it "Phone"), and one my Nana got me, "My Big Truck book." I <strong>love</strong> twucks and cars. I make <em>vroom vroom</em> noises too. I am so good at being LOUD! Mama and Dada are teaching me "Shhh" and whispering. I also love learning my ABCs on <a href="http://www.starfall.com/">www.starfall.com</a>. I call it "fall." </p><p align="left">I have also learned what a hug is. Mama asks for a hug, and I run over and crash into her. I like how warm she is. We have a lot of fun during the day together. But I love it when Dada comes home from work. I like to run into him when he calls for me. I ride on his shoulders around the house, and I like to dance when he plays the guitar. Speaking of dancing, I like to find Mama and Dada's stereo remote and turn it on. They've found me dancing to Michael Jackson twice now! :) </p>Well, I'm all out of goldfish now...it's time for more 'nack!Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-10319944397569671022011-01-10T19:23:00.004-05:002011-01-10T19:42:21.623-05:00DIY: Indoor snowflakesIn anticipation of the forthcoming snow, Caleb and I made some easy and fun snowflakes. These are probably the very same ones that you made back in preschool too. No matter, the fun in making these <em>this</em> time around was having my son join in on making some art.<br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px" align="left">Here's what you'll need: wax paper or plate, food coloring or markers, coffee filters, squirt bottle/dropper, and scissors. (<span style="font-size:85%;">Bonus points if you recognize the squirt bottle :</span>). </div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujWlSla-I/AAAAAAAAApY/hdxx7jMgyLc/s1600/DSC05100.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujWlSla-I/AAAAAAAAApY/hdxx7jMgyLc/s400/DSC05100.JPG" /></a> </div><div align="center"><br />1) Lay a pile of coffee filters on top of each other. I used three. 2) Squirt food coloring or decorate with markers. Caleb proudly squirted the blue dye, and declared "Red!" 3) Use your squirt bottle or dropper with water and watch the colors bleed through the filter.<br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujW1YHCSI/AAAAAAAAApg/c_NXHwa0C6Q/s1600/DSC05099.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujW1YHCSI/AAAAAAAAApg/c_NXHwa0C6Q/s400/DSC05099.JPG" /></a> </div><div align="center">4) Separate each coffee filter so they can dry. Since they are so thin, they don't take long at all to dry.<br /><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujXU3fBsI/AAAAAAAAApo/fajRI3SLzL4/s1600/DSC05101.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujXU3fBsI/AAAAAAAAApo/fajRI3SLzL4/s400/DSC05101.JPG" /></a> </div><div align="center">5) Be sure to snap adorable photo of adorable son making adorable snowflakes.<br /><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujXhfeCpI/AAAAAAAAApw/n1rutOdGDPk/s1600/DSC05098.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSujXhfeCpI/AAAAAAAAApw/n1rutOdGDPk/s400/DSC05098.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px">6) Fold filters in half at least 3 times. 7) Snip away on any side of your triangle. </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px">8)Unfold & behold!</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560718856635017794" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TSukVpGL6kI/AAAAAAAAAp4/cifmmbBAI14/s400/DSC05102.JPG" /> <div align="center">You can't tell from this picture, but it is actually snowing outdoors at the same time. :)<br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"></div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"></div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-19951924402501886672011-01-04T13:09:00.004-05:002011-01-04T13:34:29.422-05:00Turning to the North<div align="center"><strong>“Then at last the Lord said to me, ‘<em>You have been wandering around in this hill country long enough; turn to the north</em>.'" Deuteronomy 2:2-3</strong></div><br />Hearing this verse this morning has been the wake-up call I've desperately needed. I realize I've been pretty quiet on the blog as of late, and there are a few reasons for this. Without going into specifics, let's just say the last 3 months of my life have been riddled with disappointment after disappointment.<br /><br />This has been a huge test of faith for me. I vacillate daily between blatant doubt and weak hope. It's not a pretty place to be. Ask my husband who is fleshing out the definition of long-suffering by loving and living with me.<br /><br />Currently, those disappointments have not yet been resolved or overturned. They still are what they are. But back to the verse at the top...yes, all I've been mentally doing has been going around in circles, over and over and over. I'm tired of wallowing in self-pity. I'm yearning for God to do something big. Something that actually comes to fruition. Or perhaps for clarity and discernment to see the hidden blessings of these things??<br /><br />So here I am...waving my white flag; and attempting to turn to the North.Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-53545509989492998732010-12-14T19:24:00.002-05:002010-12-24T13:28:37.084-05:00Merry Christmas from the Wells!<div style="WIDTH: 425px; HEIGHT: 494px" class="sflyProductPreviewWidget"><div style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif); HEIGHT: 6px" class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop"></div><div style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 6px; PADDING-RIGHT: 6px; BACKGROUND-REPEAT: repeat-y; HEIGHT: 482px; PADDING-TOP: 0px" class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter"><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 14px; WIDTH: 105px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; HEIGHT: 34px; PADDING-TOP: 14px" class="sflyProductPreviewLogo"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; HEIGHT: 350px; PADDING-TOP: 0px" class="sflyProductPreviewContainer"><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/0AZOG7Zs3as2eg/0AZOG7Zs3as2euLA/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1291335769000/0/" /></a></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; PADDING-BOTTOM: 15px; LINE-HEIGHT: 19px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; HEIGHT: 55px; PADDING-TOP: 15px; BACKGROUND-: 0pxcolor:#f4f4e9;" class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer"><div style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold;font-family:arial, sans-seris;font-size:15px;color:#333333;" class="sflyProductPreviewTitle"><span style="font-size:0;">In His Name Religious Christmas Card</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewSEOText" style="font-family:arial, sans-seris;font-size:13px;color:#333333;"><span style="font-size:0;">Shop Shutterfly.com for elegant <a style="COLOR: #6666cc" href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards">Christmas photo cards</a>.</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="font-family:arial, sans-seris;font-size:13px;color:#333333;"><span style="font-size:0;">View the entire <a style="COLOR: #6666cc" href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery">collection</a> of cards.</span></div><img border="0" src="https://os.shutterfly.com/b/ss/sflyshareprod/1/H.15/111?pageName=sharekey&c1=msc&c2=blogger" width="1" height="1" /></div></div><div style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif); HEIGHT: 6px" class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom"></div></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-74426623305409618772010-11-22T08:30:00.000-05:002010-11-22T08:30:00.987-05:00Stolen kisses<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TOh2V511UiI/AAAAAAAAApM/g-m4X04DU3I/s1600/DSC04847.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TOh2V511UiI/AAAAAAAAApM/g-m4X04DU3I/s400/DSC04847.JPG" /></a> </div><p align="center"><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"><em>"The only thing worth stealing, is a kiss from a sleeping baby." ~ unknown</em></span> </p><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-60268468873661511612010-11-20T19:47:00.007-05:002010-11-20T20:10:15.991-05:00Christmas cards from Shutterfly'Tis the season for all things festive, fun, and family! I love Thanksgiving, I love Christmas! Traditionally, I really don’t stress too much about holiday preparations. But there is one small detail that does draw out my perfectionistic tendencies….<em>the family Christmas card</em>.<br /><br />Growing up, some twenty-odd years ago, Christmas cards typically had a painted wreath on the front with some gold-foil lettering. And that was the crème de la crème, some even included a wallet-sized photo of the kids.<br /><div><div><br /><div>Gone are those days (mostly), and enter the modern Christmas card, ala Shutterfly. Where you can use templates to customize designs to your heart’s desire. The sample photos are amazing, which only forces me to emulate that look. Here are some of the gorgeous designs from Shutterfly that I am loving! </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 289px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541800083121751842" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TOht0FqzxyI/AAAAAAAAApE/drXj5vZbCOA/s400/STATIONERYCARD_5x7-23046-2581-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1281038934000115057.jpg" /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 289px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541799852049285570" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TOhtmo21wcI/AAAAAAAAAo8/rpj6AYNZWCI/s400/STATIONERYCARD_5x7-23046-2544-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1281040292000115410.jpg" /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 289px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541799702268021778" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TOhtd64NDBI/AAAAAAAAAo0/XfMDg-pLkM4/s400/STATIONERYCARD_5x7-23017-2548-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1281039202000120034.jpg" /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541799458458452146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TOhtPuneQLI/AAAAAAAAAos/35XgA671iDc/s400/STATIONERYCARD_5x5-31046-2933-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1288741725000130767.jpg" /><br />I have not used Shutterfly for Christmas cards before, but have used them for greeting cards. The recipients loved seeing familiar faces on them, and noticed the professional appearance and quality cardstock. Shutterfly has oodles of designs and price points for anyone interested in sending out unique and memorable cards. So, what are you waiting for? <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery">Go check them out!</a> <br /><div></div><div> </div></div></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-34726944501985178992010-10-30T23:02:00.000-04:002010-10-30T23:02:54.225-04:00Pumpkin Patch: Now & Then<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TMzcXMNVOqI/AAAAAAAAAok/9buY3YhvW80/s1600/Caleb+14+months.jpg"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TMzcXMNVOqI/AAAAAAAAAok/9buY3YhvW80/s400/Caleb+14+months.jpg" /></a> </div>What a precious boy that he's grown into! Last year, he couldn't even sit up by himself, so he remained propped up between pumpkins. This year, he was running like a maniac between the rows of pumpkins, and we barely snapped a photo of him looking directly at the camera. I do see a common theme here: his oral fixation and my love of bulky sweaters. We love you little guy! This Fall has definitely been a lot more fun, watching him discover the colors, leaf piles, and cooler weather.<div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-31616839526088665382010-10-16T19:42:00.005-04:002010-10-16T20:02:22.274-04:00A New Family Tradition<div align="center"><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo4zjYIPOI/AAAAAAAAAns/RU-oGJx3Ptk/s1600/DSC04644.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo4zjYIPOI/AAAAAAAAAns/RU-oGJx3Ptk/s400/DSC04644.JPG" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo4z7psvGI/AAAAAAAAAn0/jte1VQKkmbY/s1600/DSC04646.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo4z7psvGI/AAAAAAAAAn0/jte1VQKkmbY/s400/DSC04646.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo40SOXUaI/AAAAAAAAAn8/1E8h3y-0uUQ/s1600/DSC04647.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo40SOXUaI/AAAAAAAAAn8/1E8h3y-0uUQ/s400/DSC04647.JPG" /></a><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo40a-bJ2I/AAAAAAAAAoE/Y_3Pb7Mgj7Y/s1600/DSC04649.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo40a-bJ2I/AAAAAAAAAoE/Y_3Pb7Mgj7Y/s400/DSC04649.JPG" /></a> </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528795491816039618" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo6NP155MI/AAAAAAAAAoM/YuOqZ_JXQ8o/s400/DSC04652.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528796364150553778" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo7ABiqPLI/AAAAAAAAAoU/3fDkU_6lDL0/s400/DSC04655.JPG" /> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528797548893704818" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TLo8E_DcEnI/AAAAAAAAAoc/rpc3B5bLf6I/s400/DSC04656.JPG" /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-66393469631424464762010-10-01T22:42:00.000-04:002010-10-01T22:43:02.788-04:00DIY Fall Wreath<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px">To celebrate Fall's arrival, I decided to do something I've never done before: make a wreath. As with most projects, I began my quest at Dollar Tree. They had a nice selection of wire ribbons, leaf garlands, mums, sunflowers, etc. I ended up buying two 5-foot leaf garlands. The wreaths they had were too small for a front door, but thankfully Michaels was right next door. I found an 18" grapevine wreath with a gorgeous orange sunflower pick with berry accents. After using a 40% off coupon and getting a 50% off sale, the total to make this simple wreath was $6. Not too shabby!<br /><br />When creating the wreath, I first tried two ways with the garland. The first time, I wrapped it around the wreath, like a running stitch. But that didn't look so great. Next thing I tried was just laying the garland in a circle on top of the wreath. That added the fullness it needed. Enter floral wire and hot glue gun, and tada! About 30 minutes later, my little $6 wreath had blossomed into autumnal beauty.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TKacNEBexsI/AAAAAAAAAnc/HOaykef8n7w/s1600/DSC04566.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TKacNEBexsI/AAAAAAAAAnc/HOaykef8n7w/s400/DSC04566.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TKacNaVGXaI/AAAAAAAAAnk/GyMHjtuIaRc/s1600/DSC04567.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TKacNaVGXaI/AAAAAAAAAnk/GyMHjtuIaRc/s400/DSC04567.JPG" /></a> </div><div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-51315128388445075192010-09-17T13:55:00.004-04:002010-09-17T14:34:20.200-04:00Fabric Fancy & Fleece<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px" align="left"></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"></div><p>It's never a good thing when I just happen to wander into a fabric store. Mainly because I get so inspired by the colors, textures, and patterns, but really have no clue where to begin. Earlier this week I happened into Hancock Fabrics and began instantly drooling. See the problem here though, is that I am <em>not</em> a master seamstress. I am extremely limited in my sewing ability. So you can understand my creativity pangs when I see all of those gorgeous fabrics, but don't know how to physically manipulate them. It's not that I don't have ideas for oodles of things involving fabric, it's just that I don't have the time to sit down and learn sewing with a cute toddler around. I know, <em>I know</em>, that's such a convenient excuse for, well...<em>everything</em>. </p><p>In my mind, I would love to be <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/">Amy Butler</a>... a girl can dream, can't she? So here's a very short list of a couple of things that I <em>have</em> been able to sew: pillow cover/case, knitting needle roll-up case, wipes, dog bed, dog poncho, annnnnd I think that's all. Well for a complete novice like me, I really appreciate no-sew projects. You get the best of both worlds (thanks Hannah Montana) by using fun fabrics, with none of the expertise required! :-D </p><p>Which brings me back to standing in Hancock Fabrics on Tuesday, eyeing all of the whimsical fleece prints. I love fleece for a plethora of reasons, but mostly because it's extremely easy to make stuff with. I saw this print in the clearance section called "Bugs & Worms," and knew instantly that this was perfect for my little Bubster. He loves all types of creepy-crawlies, alive or dead. I envisioned a cute reversible blanket for him, a larger size for the big boy he is becoming. I then grabbed a solid turquoise bolt to pair with the print. Folks, I gotta tell you, one of the only drawbacks to fleece is the price at times. But right now at Hancock, they're having an anniversary sale where most of their store is 53% off. It runs through the end of the month, so stock up now for Christmas projects :) </p><p>After 1.5 yards each of the fabrics and roughly $12 later, I had a cozy blanket to create. <a href="http://www.exploringwomanhood.com/homelife/ideas/pom-jan03.htm">Instead of retyping directions for this, I'm posting the link that will give you the lowdown.</a> Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. I kid you not, all you need is a pair of scissors to do this. I'm seriously considering making two more for my niece and nephew with other fabrics. Have fun, y'all. </p><p> </p><p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TJOr1LxnmBI/AAAAAAAAAnM/96bjYmXzk5w/s1600/DSC04428.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TJOr1LxnmBI/AAAAAAAAAnM/96bjYmXzk5w/s400/DSC04428.JPG" /></a></p><p><br /></p><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TJOr1t9L8VI/AAAAAAAAAnU/m3QM2Mki8_I/s1600/DSC04426.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TJOr1t9L8VI/AAAAAAAAAnU/m3QM2Mki8_I/s400/DSC04426.JPG" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-68398966480266025712010-09-11T13:02:00.008-04:002010-09-11T13:50:50.270-04:00Consignment Sale Debriefing & TipsIt's been a busy and fun weekend so far. Hubs and the DS went to go visit his family, and therefore I'm getting some fun girly stuff done! I've been waiting for today, for several weeks now, knowing that two major consignment sales would be open for business. I couldn't sleep, I tell you. It was like Christmas Eve or something. Plus, I had to get up <em>before the sun</em> to be ready for the first sale.<br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>6:50 am:</strong> roll up to a church parking lot and see small line of frugalistas waiting for the gym doors to open. </div><div><strong>7:00 am:</strong> mad dash inside. people falling down. screaming. something caught fire. well, not really, but you get the idea.</div><div><strong>7:01 am:</strong> overwhelmed.</div><div><strong>7:02 am:</strong> My confidence increasing, I weasel my way over to the 18-24 month boys' rack and begin quickly skimming. Hello, stripes. Hello, Ralph Lauren. Meet...my shopping bag.</div><div><strong>8:00 am:</strong> Checking out and glory Hallelujah, I only spent $22 for several nice pants and shirts. Not to mention a cute puzzle depicting how to set the table. Gotta start 'em young. </div><div><strong>8:20 am:</strong> roll up to a church parking lot and see a cop directing parking traffic. oy. </div><div><strong>8:22 am:</strong> overwhelmed. again.</div><div><strong>8:24 am:</strong> go straight to shoes and see lots of cute styles, but not in <em>his</em> size. shimmy my way over to the 18-24 month boys' rack and begin skimming: Nothing...nothing...nothing...ehhh....hmm...maybe?... I wasn't as impressed with the selection at this particular sale, saw several stained items. Ventured out to the books/puzzle area and toys.</div><div><strong>9:15 am:</strong> Checking out in the "express" lane, and my total was $18.75. </div><div><strong>9:30 am:</strong> Visiting the final sale of the weekend, and the one I hadn't planned to visit. After combing the racks, found a pair of jeans for $2. </div><div><strong>10:30 am:</strong> Leaving with my sanity in tact, and only a minor dent in the budget DH and I had agreed upon after 3 sales!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>And here is the final stash of clothes bought for Fall/Winter: </div><div> </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515714029025962802" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIvAr5a7KzI/AAAAAAAAAm0/epO41_rBthk/s400/DSC04414.JPG" /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><div>Not too shabby for roughly $44, tax-free too! I love all of the pieces, and they average $2 a piece. </div><br /><div></div><div>So here are some of my tips that I've heard from others, and that I've learned through experience:<br /></div><ul><li>Try to leave your kids and DH at home. I don't say this to be mean, but simply that space is extremely limited at this type of sale, and most shoppers are on a mission. Plus, you won't have to worry about someone getting bored or whiny.</li><br /><li>Go first thing at opening if you can. The early bird gets the worm, or rather the early shopper gets the best selection. </li><br /><li>Bring a bag or laundry basket, <em>something.</em> I am constantly amazed at how many people have nowhere to place their items. The IKEA bag was made for this. </li><br /><li>If there are windows available, take your clothes over there and inspect them for stains, tears, missing buttons, broken zippers, grease stains in natural light. </li><br /><li>Take cash or check with you. Most sales are not debit/credit equipped. </li><br /><li>To stretch your dollar further, visit sales hosted by non-profits since there will be no tax included! </li><br /><li>Volunteer at your favorite sale and shop the preview sale for even better selection (before the public gets their grubby hands all over it). </li><br /><li>Take some measurements of clothing that currently fit your child well. I used a string of yarn to measure some jeans from waist to bottom cuff. Holding it up against other pants will show you how it compares. For shoes, I simply trace a foot, then take out the insole of a prospective shoe to compare for size and width. </li><br /><li>Know prices of brands. This will help you in the long run. For instance, I really don't like the idea of paying more than $3.50 for a shirt because I know I can buy a new one for the same price at Walmart (Garanimals brand) or Kohl's (Jumping Beans). Some consignors price items too high for the brand, i.e. GenuineKids by Oshkosh for Target, $8 sweater...<em>not</em> a deal.</li><br /><li>Keep a towel with you in case you need to sit on the floor and sort your clothes before buying. I did this at a sale and many buyers wished they had one too. A lot of the venues that sell do not have seating or a table to do this. Plus, this will keep your clothes clean too.</li><br /><li>Some buyers/sellers frown upon this ("stockpiling"), but I call it smart shopping. If you even <em>think</em> for a second that you like a particular item, shove it in your bag. I may start with a bag overflowing with clothes, but after sorting, pondering, etc. I may decide it's not worth it. Please put the items back where you found them. I have 'lost' several items to other shoppers because I hesitated. </li><br /><li>This should be an obvious one: know what you need to buy. I'm sure lots of poor souls fall prey to impulse buying at these sales since everything is so cheap. But it's not much of a deal if your kid already has more of the same. </li><br /><li>Have fun :) </li></ul>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-28762954984141711772010-09-07T10:47:00.000-04:002010-09-07T10:47:00.195-04:00Adventures in Parenting: It's the little thingsBefore I became a parent, I never knew:<br /><ul><li>I'd spend so much time chopping/dicing/mashing/tearing food bits. </li><li>That the moment my husband's key would unlock our door around 5:20 pm, I would have immediate relief wash over me. </li><li>how important changing tables are when you're out in public.</li><li>I would end up consuming just as many Cheerios as my child does.</li><li>how glorious naps were; for both of us.</li><li>that God could use a little child to teach me the hardest lessons.</li><li>how wonderful and sanity-saving, grandparents could be.</li><li>the slight differences between Pampers, Huggies, and Luvs. Not to mention, the beauty of pop-up wipes.</li><li>what a challenging calling that motherhood truly is.</li><li>that "snack traps" don't really trap all of the snack!</li><li>that cloth bibs work best for bottles and liquidy stuff, but slick pelican bibs are better for table food.</li><li>how pitiful your child looks when he's sick.</li><li>the beauty and fun of consignment sales.</li><li>that some days, your child <em>will</em> get on your last nerve. </li><li>that other days, you can't get enough of him. </li><li>how much I would desperately need God's forgivness and grace in raising a child. </li></ul><p>I have learned so much in this small little space of time that my son has been around. And I can't imagine my life without him now. He grew <em>in</em> me a little over a year ago, and now he's grown <em>on </em>me. God give me the grace that despite all of my failings and quirks, he will ultimately see You. </p>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-3688784155789340012010-09-04T22:03:00.007-04:002010-09-04T22:46:30.578-04:00"La-LA-La-LA....Bubster's World"....sung to the tune of, none other than "Elmo's World!"<br /><br /><div align="left">It's been awhile since I've posted some about Bub's current world. And man, do I love his little piece of the world. </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513253914045340034" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIMDOW80WYI/AAAAAAAAAmk/nQ7C4u1u5nw/s400/DSC04319.JPG" /> <span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Frenemies</em><br /></span><br /></div><div align="left">Ever since he took his first steps almost two months ago, he is amazing us with his speed all of a sudden. I <em>usedtacould</em> open a door and quickly grab something, and shut the door all without him noticing or being able to <em>intervene.</em> Nowadays, that no longer happens, and he is quick as a whip, right there at your feet, ready and all too willing to get involved with whatever I am doing. Right now, his most favorite activities are opening and shutting doors, dancing, reading, chasing Cubbie, and getting into the fridge or dishwasher. The latter have become problems of their own...basically when I shut either door, he throws a fit. Screaming at the top of his lungs, all because I shut the fridge door. Bless his heart. </div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">The dancing bit is so cute to watch. He'll do it to about anything, whether it's a song on his favorite show, <a href="http://www.raggs.tv/">Raggs</a>, or a song in one of his musical books. He bobs up and down with the most serious of looks on his little face. It really looks as if he's thinking, "Up...now down...Up...now down." :) We've gotten it on video quite a few times, so hopefully (fingers crossed), I'll remember to post one. </div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">Bub's vocab is growing as well. He can now say: Mama, Dada, ball, Bobo (his fave monkey), bye bye, uh-oh, and light. I know "light" is a strange first word, but he is <em>obsessed</em> with lights. It all started when I began pointing to any and every light in a room. Soon, his arm and finger began imitating mine, and he would smile and say "_igh_." </div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">Another cute thing he does (and there are too many to count!) is raise his arms above his head. We taught him to raise them when we say, "Praise God!" He did it at our church one day, much to everyone's delight. And just the other day, as we were riding down in an elevator, it made a weird clunking noise with a small bounce. Bub said, "Uh-Oh!" :-D I have no idea how or why he knew to say that in context! But I told him, "Please don't say 'uh-oh' in an elevator!" Ironically, as we were waiting for the same elevator awhile later, a maintenace man told us it was acting up. ::blushing:: My son is already getting smarter than his old mom! </div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">He is still very much in love with his precious blankie, and now enjoys dragging it around the house with him. He strews <em>everything </em>around the house nowadays. I find the most random things in the most random of places. I do love finding a wooden block or puzzle piece intermingled with his dirty clothes. Truly his presence makes itself known. </div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">He is such a gift. I am so thankful to God for such an energetic and wild little boy. (These words may come to bite me in the future, but for now, they're all true).</div><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513251082181247746" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIMAphbzgwI/AAAAAAAAAmc/gp4YCln4FHM/s400/DSC04337.JPG" /></div><em></em>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-67712102899937869352010-09-03T08:46:00.000-04:002010-09-03T08:46:00.113-04:00Happy 4th Anniversary!To my sweet husband,<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div>I love you more than the day you asked me to marry you....</div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512491121352268210" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIBNd-uyWbI/AAAAAAAAAmM/rf2xwMyWpqU/s400/Family+044.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>I love you more than the day we said, "I do." </div><br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512490760598196242" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIBNI-0UEBI/AAAAAAAAAmE/Zy85U0VwDoQ/s400/083MEGAN.jpg" /><br /><div>I love you more than the day we found out we were pregnant.</div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512493341161317650" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIBPfMKgZRI/AAAAAAAAAmU/3Fr5z0zYUxI/s400/DSC01167.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>I love you more than the day we met our firstborn son.</div><br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512488868740413330" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TIBLa3GRN5I/AAAAAAAAAl0/g_rVGcKoUO8/s400/DSC01652.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>I love you more than you will ever know...</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-32897806447156126212010-08-23T22:04:00.002-04:002010-08-23T22:24:36.194-04:00Daydreaming of Fall<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/THMo0QgslgI/AAAAAAAAAls/k4mIQtAimhI/s1600/DSC00883.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/THMo0QgslgI/AAAAAAAAAls/k4mIQtAimhI/s400/DSC00883.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Stowe, Vermont (Fall 2008)</span></em></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left">On Wednesday, September 22, 2010, I'll be doing a little happy dance. You see, that's the first day of Fall. The debut of my favorite season bursting onto the scene. I'm so thankful that I live in a place where I can experience the full range of seasons; some milder than previous years. But Fall is just always beautiful, and never disappoints, regardless of how the rest of the seasons have played out. </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left">The crisp air, "jacket weather," the smell of smoke billowing from chimneys and bonfires, bumpy hayrides, gooey s'mores, turtlenecks, warm scarves, appley-anything, crunchy leaves, dazzling colors, coziness. What's not to love? </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left">In anticipation of Autumn, I excitedly announced to B, "I just painted my toenails 'Brown-a-licious!'" To which he wryly responded, "You <em>do</em> know that it's about a month away, right?" </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left">Yes, but who's counting? </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left">....30 days....</div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">What are some of your favorite things about Fall?</span> </strong></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both" align="left"></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-42243885532770306102010-08-14T22:45:00.001-04:002010-08-14T22:51:09.908-04:00GQ bay-bay<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TGdU-Z0iA7I/AAAAAAAAAlU/bsBYn48CQCY/s1600/DSC04200.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TGdU-Z0iA7I/AAAAAAAAAlU/bsBYn48CQCY/s400/DSC04200.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TGdU-1Ub13I/AAAAAAAAAlc/rA-_5NlO_Ug/s1600/DSC04203.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TGdU-1Ub13I/AAAAAAAAAlc/rA-_5NlO_Ug/s400/DSC04203.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TGdU_ozMelI/AAAAAAAAAlk/Qq9L8F8JjwU/s1600/DSC04265.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TGdU_ozMelI/AAAAAAAAAlk/Qq9L8F8JjwU/s400/DSC04265.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><em>Caleb is modeling Huggies Jeans and Snug & Dry diapers. Cup by Tommee Tippee. Robot pj top by BabyGap. </em></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-18768117551095221312010-08-08T23:02:00.002-04:002010-08-08T23:12:24.215-04:00Who does he favor?<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TF9xkXfsgFI/AAAAAAAAAlM/gam2ZBzF9Uc/s1600/Caleb+7+months.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 309px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503242139266220114" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TF9xkXfsgFI/AAAAAAAAAlM/gam2ZBzF9Uc/s400/Caleb+7+months.JPG" /></a> <em>Brent (left) & Bubster (right)</em></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TF9v87eCa1I/AAAAAAAAAlE/XWSh2b0mNIQ/s1600/Caleb+8+months1.jpg"><img border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TF9v87eCa1I/AAAAAAAAAlE/XWSh2b0mNIQ/s400/Caleb+8+months1.jpg" /></a> </div><p align="center"><em>Me (left) & Bubster (right) </em></p><p>We get asked often by friends (and family) who we think Bub looks more like. What do you think? </p><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; CLEAR: both"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img style="BORDER-BOTTOM: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BACKGROUND: 0% 50%; BORDER-TOP: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-TOP: 0px; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" border="0" alt="Posted by Picasa" align="middle" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" /></a></div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-84689835363618416992010-08-06T21:12:00.006-04:002010-08-06T21:59:03.843-04:00Adventures in Parenting: Buying a minivan?!I can't even <em>believe</em> I just typed the word <em>minivan.</em> It connotes soccer mom, unhip, scattered and broken Cheerios, and the sound of a slamming sliding door (in my mind). Growing up, just my sister and I, we never rode in a minivan unless it was a friend's. We rode around in a grey Chevrolet Cavalier station wagon for most of our younger years, then upgraded to a brand spankin' new '91 Toyota Camry; with moonroof. Eat. your. heart. out.<br /><br /><div></div><div>The Cavalier is looong gone, but the Camry, affectionately known as <em>Ol'</em> <em>Girl</em>, is still being driven around town by the husband. A couple of years ago, I was able to pick out a <em>new-to-me</em> '03 Honda Accord which is nicknamed <em>Annie.</em> (Backstory on the name: we found out during the buying process that the car had been repossessed; thus she was a bit of an orphan). </div><br /><div>Amazingly, it seems like Annie has shrunken ever since Bubster entered our life. The mega-sized gear, bulging diaper bag, and variety of car toys has usurped the former backseat section. A minivan <em>just makes sense</em> to us<em>.</em> I'm as practical as they come, and even I can't deny the beauty of stow-n-go seating, dual sliding doors, and a butt load more of storage space. Did I mention our stroller takes up the entire trunk of the Accord? Lord willing, we would like to expand our family in the future, and it's difficult for me to imagine adding more to Annie's current load. </div><br /><div>So, as I swallow my pride, since I previously vowed <em>I would never, ever, ever, in a million bajillion years drive or own a minivan</em>, we are poring over used Honda Odyssey ads specifically. And boy am I grateful for the internet at this time. What did people do without it before?! <em>Oh yeah, read newspaper classifieds and pick up a copy of AutoTrader outside of the grocery store. </em></div><br /><div>We found a perfect match for what we were looking for off of Craigslist, but discovered it had been sold and the ad was left behind. But just as in big things or little things, we are trusting God that He will bring it about in His will and time. Lord, give me patience! </div><br /><div>In the meantime, my sister (also avowed anti-minivanist, who drives a big honkin' SUV) and I recently discussed our wanting to buy a minivan. She had a mischievous grin and chuckled knowingly. I don't know, it's like all your cool points go <em>completely </em>out the window when you drive a minivan. Like an official <strong>mom</strong> mobile. But what I am realizing, is that it is totally okay to be stereotyped as a mom :) It's a beautiful thing, really. See below. </div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502480841651230338" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TFy9LA4DloI/AAAAAAAAAkc/dgKHfquradA/s320/DSC03910.JPG" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>And here are a few other mini-van funnies....</div><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ql-N3F1FhW4">The Swagger Wagon</a> </div><br /><div></div><a href="http://www.littlellamas.com/2009/04/ill-never-drive.html">Another mom's take on saying, "I'll never drive a van."<br /></a><div> </div>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7783775461378070930.post-59344193123710613772010-07-26T19:17:00.004-04:002010-07-26T19:58:51.359-04:00What was I doing almost a year ago?In short, waiting and hoping that Caleb Sheridan would arrive <em>any</em> day...<br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498359220673939138" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ayxr_wT4XFM/TE4YlGPDhsI/AAAAAAAAAkU/MhMa8JP-KmM/s320/DSCN3726.JPG" /></div><p align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">July 25, 2009--eager to meet my son (and be done with it already!)</span></em></p><p align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The hospital bag was mostly packed albeit those things you always throw in at the last moment: contact solution, toothbrush, razor, etc.</span> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">I'd been working on my nightly pelvic exercises and stretches. Also continuing to slather on the cocoa butter lotion (which didn't really help me prevent stretch marks). I remember sitting in the glider in his finished nursery often, rocking back and forth ever so slowly, telling him how we couldn't wait to meet him. It was surreal, having everything ready to go, just no baby yet. I wondered what motherhood would be like. Could it really be as challenging and yet so amazingly wonderful at the same time as other moms had led me to believe? </span></p><p align="left">What about labor and birth? Would I end up having to be induced? Would I be able to handle it? His due date was August 5th, 2009. I kept imagining having to call Brent at work and saying, "Honey, I think I'm in labor!" Which is funny to me in of itself, because I don't refer to Brent as "honey." :) Would I be out in public and have my water break? </p><p align="left">At the end of my pregnancy, I really enjoyed speculating and imagining everything. I wasn't anxious about it really, just wondering how it'd all go down. And I'm sure God had fun listening to and watching me pose "What if?" scenarios. </p><p align="left"><em><strong>He knew all along.</strong></em> He knew the moment that Caleb Sheridan would make his grand entrance. He knew the joyful tears I would shed at his birth, and the heartrending tears that would come during the following weeks. He knew that He would give me strength in my weakness and carry me through. He heard my cries along with Caleb's, begging for mercy and that most precious gift, <em>sleep</em>. He knew that things would get better, it would just take awhile. He knew that I would grow to appreciate the <em>new normal. </em>He knew that I would become more dependent upon Him.</p><p align="left"><strong><em>But I did not know of these things yet.</em></strong> Little did I know that I would be meeting my son very soon, just a handful of days later on July 31st, 2009. </p><p align="left"> </p>Megan at My Heart, My Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17814073504070400575noreply@blogger.com1