Hey mommy's friends,
This is Brooks. My brother is coming soon and my mom has lost it! She lays on the couch and eats these colorful things on sticks over and over and over again and she just asks me to bring things to her and throw her sticks away. "Brooks, go get mommy your book and I'll read to you." Whatever mom, you make up the words to my books - I know everything isn't a duck! She calls the aardvark in my book a "duck" for real and then thinks I should tell her that the aardvark quacks. Just because my mommy is "soooo tired" as she says, I am not tired and I want to know about the stinkin aardvark!
Anyway, since she is "soooo tired" she says she can barely type or write funny things but since I am a pretty big deal around here and doing some amazing new things - I thought I'd tell yall or someone that will listen. I'm going to be looking at colleges here soon and knowing my mama, she'll probably be fat with another baby again and too tired to move!
So, here is what I've been up to this past month. I am 13 months going on a superstar, that's all.
-Because they always call me a monkey I thought I'd play the part and I can now tell you what sound a real monkey makes (ooooh,oooooh,ooooooh)
-I can go and fetch things (Do you think my mama is taking advantage of me? I throw away her trash and my diapers and sometimes even her keys just to see if she likes my game. She doesn't.)
-I can point to my nose and my ears and everyone laughs when mom asks if I have a booger and I point in my nose. I don't get it but whatever....
-I like to stand at the window when I see dad's cool truck pull up in the evening and I bang on the window and yell "da da da" at him. Then Amos knocks me over and mom gets all mad and yells at Amos but really I'm not hurt - I just like to see her reaction.
-I can throw everything! Seriously, everything. Give me my cup - I can launch it. Put food on my tray if I am not hungry and I will throw it in your hair or on Amos (that's my favorite). Give me your phone to distract me and Ill chunk it across the room or restaurant or whatever. Innocent? They used to say that word to me and I don't know what it means but I haven't heard it lately.
-I can pelvis thrust.
-Yes, you read it right, people. Daddy taught me how to lay on the bed and act like a moron like him, Mom acts like we aren't funny but I always catch her laughing. She just wishes she wasn't so oddly shaped right now so she could to it, too.
-I love dogs but not Amos. Amos ignores me so I am done with him. I love to chase other "do-dos" and try to catch their tails. I've been bitten a few times but it doesn't stop me.
-I like to sing to my music that mom lets me listen to in the car. I like the "hot, hot, hot" song and sing along by saying "ha, ha, ha" to which mom smiles back at me. Goodness, she will smile at anything I do. You'd think she was bored before I came along to entertain her.
-Shoes. I love shoes! I will sit forever trying to get my new crocs on but then when I get in the car I like to take them off and let my feet breathe. Even if you have little people feet - your feet still sweat and may even stink a litle! Mom is always so surprised when she smells my feet. She says, "sheeeeweeeeey" and I just think that is the funniest sound and it always makes me giggle. Has she checked out her feet lately? Oh, yeah, she can't see them.
-I can show you my two teeth. Yes, I said two. Don't judge me or put me on a chart. I think 2 teeth are much cuter than 4 or 8 and I may just stay this way for a long time. My grandma says my dad didn't get teeth for awhile but mom says when he got them they sure were pretty so I think it's worth the wait.
-I know where my tongue is. My parents aren't going to like this trick once my brother gets here and I show him my tongue when he is bothering me.
-I love making people feel silly by giving them this face that my grandad "Big" does....he is so good at it and I thought I'd try it too. 13 months old and already intimidating! What can I say? I was born with these big old eyebrows and I gotta use 'em!
-Dance? Did you say, dance? Oh boy, I've got moves that would make your granny sweat. Mom says I actually have rhythm, too, unlike my daddy. Hello, have you seen him pelvic thrust and kick his legs on the bed? She doesn't know what she is missing!
-I love my Nise and when I see her I get really excited. Normally when she leaves I walk around saying "NeeNee" but I won't call her that too her face until I can say it a little better. She crawls on the floor with me and plays when my mama says she's too tired to think.
-Oh, I almost forgot. I've got this walking thing down. I can bend down and touch my toes and pick up things and practically run in the yard. I also know how to go over the step down in our house without my mom having to hold my hand every time.
-I can flirt. Are you surprised? Do you know my daddy? I love to flirt with my friend, Ally Grace. She kicks her legs because she isn't crawling yet (which makes it easier for me to be near her) so I just kick my legs back and try to show her how fond I am of her and her moves.
Mom is shouting more things at me that I know how to do but I can't type that fast and it's my bed time. I love my bed, yall! This morning I slept until 8:30 and made daddy late for work because he was thinking I'd be up earlier to wake him. I was dreaming of Ally Grace and mandarin oranges (my favorite) and Elmo and I didn't want to end those kind of thoughts! Do you blame me?
I'll check back with yall next month as I am sure I'll be paying the bills around here and doing the laundry as my mom seems to think that our family is going to be in chaos once my brother comes. She really is so dramatic! I am here to help, mom!
Why are they making such a fuss over this guy? By then I'll be tying my shoes and mowing the yard like my daddy and he'll just be sleeping and pooing all the time. I'll make sure they remember who was here first, don't worry.
Good Night, yall. My daddy has to sing "Jesus loves me" now as he takes me to my bed because that's what he does every night. It may not sound all that great but I love this time with dad so much. I hope even when mama isn't big and tired anymore that she'll still let dad put me to bed. Plus, he sometimes lets me sleep in my diaper and mom would never let that fly!
Love,
Brooks
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Enjoying our time
I think last week may have been the last of my "oh #$*^, there is a baby coming home with us in a few weeks" moments. Let's just hope, right? I lounged in anxiety last week just feeling all clingy and needy and scared inside but only acting paralyzed on the outside. Luckily, I made my list....THE list.....and felt a little better afterwards. More so, the best husband and I know and the most gracious mama I know jumped into action to knock some things off the list that only seemed to get longer every time I walked by it hanging in the kitchen.
So this weekend we spent busying ourselves with baby-preparation activities including but not limited to moving the largest and nicest piece of furniture we own down the stairs without a scratch, moving several pieces of furniture for the baby's room upstairs, hanging curtains, rearranging the common spaces to give Brooks room to get in trouble and the baby room to swing and bounce, washing newborn things and trying unsuccessfully to find pieces to anything baby (why is it that every baby thing we own is missing atleast one non-integral but still obvious piece?) Oh, and if it sounded like I had anything to do with the above - I didn't. Literally, I have been paralyzed and unable to even tie my own shoes (because of my belly and paralysis) and therefore, I have watched as my two favorite busy bees tried to calm my nerves and get rid of my daunting list.
But, we really have enjoyed these first days of July. For the first time in a very long while I don't feel like there is a ticking clock around my neck waiting to ding when the baby is done cooking. Honestly, I've almost tried to forget about what is about to happen and rather just live truly in the moment with Brad and Brooks. This weekend we were "sprinkled" with support, encouragement, and diapers!!!! Seriously, we may have enough diapers to last through next Spring and Brad says at that point that we'll just go ahead and potty train them both! Go right ahead, Brad. I came away from this time with girl friends feeling so loved and so at peace about God's story for our family. In the midst of a crazy two years and a move in the middle - it is so humbling to know there are some dear girls who are still very committed to me as a friend and to our family.
We have approximately 5 weeks left as a family of 3 and here are just a few of the things we plan to do or un-plan to do....meaning, we have no agenda and I couldn't feel more rested and excited to enjoy a few weeks of nothing with my two favorite boys.
*enjoy the thunderstorms! Beware - call before visiting if it's raining in Atlanta because Brooks and maybe his pregnant mother likes to enjoy a summer thunderstorm with little clothing restriction
*eat a Yoforia yogurt almost everyday and sometimes twice
*see a movie or two and eat the buttery popcorn
*eat at Brooks favorite restaurants - Cafe at Pharr, Taqueria del Sol, and OK Cafe (or maybe my favorite's!)
*enjoy a baby that sleeps 12 hours at night and still naps for 2-4 hours a day. Oh boy, I am not ready to get up 3 or 4 times a night! It's crazy how you forget about those early, exhausting days
*enjoy the last few weeks of my 2 years of pregnancy-treatment. No longer can I ask Brad to do silly tasks that I can probably do but convince him I can't because of the baby's hiccups or something ridiculous
*enjoy an over night date night or two we hope! (Babysitting anyone?) There's nothing like waking up to a snoring husband and just laying in the bed for as long as you want without the mini-me begging for "ma-ma" from his crib!
*enjoy most meals out because I can't use the I'm too big and too hot to cook excuse much longer
*enjoy time with our friends that may not want to go out with us when we are man-to-man coverage. I am pretty sure some of you sweet friends will boycott our family of 4 for awhile - atleast until we get this new thing under control.
*enjoy not pushing myself at the gym because the extra 15 minutes of cardio doesn't do much for me these days anyway - but it a few months I plan to be G.I.Jane and FINALLY have my pre-baby body back!!!!
*enjoy eachother. I really have enjoyed just being with Brad lately. It's kinda felt like those first months of marriage where you just like to be near each other even if there isn't anything to say. This is so refreshing because as any married couple knows - those first giddy feelings don't stay around forever but goodness, when they come back throughout the busy years - it feels so good and relaxing! Plus, Brad is hot! Ever since I started gaining weight Brad has decided to get buff on me and I am enjoying watching his inner-stud come alive!
Of course, all of this enjoying that I plan to do may be cut short if my belly continues to tighten and contract the way it has today. It is waaaaaay too early to be feeling any of those unforgettable feelings. Way too early, baby! Do you hear me. TOO EARLY!!! I need a few more weeks to relax and watch other sweet people take care of the list!
And because of every decent blogger knows that no one reads their words and just skips to the pictures of the chubby one year old (though he is losing some of his beloved "chub") - here are some pictures. You're welcome.
Brooks flirting hard with Ally Grace. They were playing some kind of baby footsie. Ooh la la!
Show me your teeth, goofball!
My new place to play during the middle of the day. My mom is so smart! (Don't worry - she is right next to me the whole time because she actually gets to sit down on the potty next to my "playpen" and watch me play without chasing me around!)
And a few pics from this weekend's wonderful "sprinkle" hosted by my mama and my dear friend, Loretta! The girls below are all a part of my bible study from years ago and we are all due within 10 days of each other (except for the hot 50 year old, Loretta)
My mom's lovely decor and some of my favorite foods (and the little growing baby's)
So this weekend we spent busying ourselves with baby-preparation activities including but not limited to moving the largest and nicest piece of furniture we own down the stairs without a scratch, moving several pieces of furniture for the baby's room upstairs, hanging curtains, rearranging the common spaces to give Brooks room to get in trouble and the baby room to swing and bounce, washing newborn things and trying unsuccessfully to find pieces to anything baby (why is it that every baby thing we own is missing atleast one non-integral but still obvious piece?) Oh, and if it sounded like I had anything to do with the above - I didn't. Literally, I have been paralyzed and unable to even tie my own shoes (because of my belly and paralysis) and therefore, I have watched as my two favorite busy bees tried to calm my nerves and get rid of my daunting list.
But, we really have enjoyed these first days of July. For the first time in a very long while I don't feel like there is a ticking clock around my neck waiting to ding when the baby is done cooking. Honestly, I've almost tried to forget about what is about to happen and rather just live truly in the moment with Brad and Brooks. This weekend we were "sprinkled" with support, encouragement, and diapers!!!! Seriously, we may have enough diapers to last through next Spring and Brad says at that point that we'll just go ahead and potty train them both! Go right ahead, Brad. I came away from this time with girl friends feeling so loved and so at peace about God's story for our family. In the midst of a crazy two years and a move in the middle - it is so humbling to know there are some dear girls who are still very committed to me as a friend and to our family.
We have approximately 5 weeks left as a family of 3 and here are just a few of the things we plan to do or un-plan to do....meaning, we have no agenda and I couldn't feel more rested and excited to enjoy a few weeks of nothing with my two favorite boys.
*enjoy the thunderstorms! Beware - call before visiting if it's raining in Atlanta because Brooks and maybe his pregnant mother likes to enjoy a summer thunderstorm with little clothing restriction
*eat a Yoforia yogurt almost everyday and sometimes twice
*see a movie or two and eat the buttery popcorn
*eat at Brooks favorite restaurants - Cafe at Pharr, Taqueria del Sol, and OK Cafe (or maybe my favorite's!)
*enjoy a baby that sleeps 12 hours at night and still naps for 2-4 hours a day. Oh boy, I am not ready to get up 3 or 4 times a night! It's crazy how you forget about those early, exhausting days
*enjoy the last few weeks of my 2 years of pregnancy-treatment. No longer can I ask Brad to do silly tasks that I can probably do but convince him I can't because of the baby's hiccups or something ridiculous
*enjoy an over night date night or two we hope! (Babysitting anyone?) There's nothing like waking up to a snoring husband and just laying in the bed for as long as you want without the mini-me begging for "ma-ma" from his crib!
*enjoy most meals out because I can't use the I'm too big and too hot to cook excuse much longer
*enjoy time with our friends that may not want to go out with us when we are man-to-man coverage. I am pretty sure some of you sweet friends will boycott our family of 4 for awhile - atleast until we get this new thing under control.
*enjoy not pushing myself at the gym because the extra 15 minutes of cardio doesn't do much for me these days anyway - but it a few months I plan to be G.I.Jane and FINALLY have my pre-baby body back!!!!
*enjoy eachother. I really have enjoyed just being with Brad lately. It's kinda felt like those first months of marriage where you just like to be near each other even if there isn't anything to say. This is so refreshing because as any married couple knows - those first giddy feelings don't stay around forever but goodness, when they come back throughout the busy years - it feels so good and relaxing! Plus, Brad is hot! Ever since I started gaining weight Brad has decided to get buff on me and I am enjoying watching his inner-stud come alive!
Of course, all of this enjoying that I plan to do may be cut short if my belly continues to tighten and contract the way it has today. It is waaaaaay too early to be feeling any of those unforgettable feelings. Way too early, baby! Do you hear me. TOO EARLY!!! I need a few more weeks to relax and watch other sweet people take care of the list!
And because of every decent blogger knows that no one reads their words and just skips to the pictures of the chubby one year old (though he is losing some of his beloved "chub") - here are some pictures. You're welcome.
Brooks flirting hard with Ally Grace. They were playing some kind of baby footsie. Ooh la la!
Show me your teeth, goofball!
My new place to play during the middle of the day. My mom is so smart! (Don't worry - she is right next to me the whole time because she actually gets to sit down on the potty next to my "playpen" and watch me play without chasing me around!)
And a few pics from this weekend's wonderful "sprinkle" hosted by my mama and my dear friend, Loretta! The girls below are all a part of my bible study from years ago and we are all due within 10 days of each other (except for the hot 50 year old, Loretta)
My mom's lovely decor and some of my favorite foods (and the little growing baby's)
Friday, July 9, 2010
Summer Vacation 2010
We've been home recovering from our vacation this week. Brooks has boycotted naps ever since we left our vacation home (of course, until 10 minutes ago when I had planned for us to go somewhere. Of course!) Amos has been sulking for 3 days now and has yet to come off of his couch. It's really kinda tragic. Amos ran and frolicked with the other two dogs during our vacation and he never once sat down. At night when the other dogs were asleep on their end of the house Amos would lie by our door just waiting until we released him in the morning to go join his pack. Now we bring him home to his house where he has his own doggy door and really expensive organic food and he wants nothing to do with us. I'm thinking he is not going to like the surprise coming his way in a few weeks.......
I've been avoiding the abundance of dirty laundry for the last 3 days, knowing that acknowledging the laundry will officially put an end to our summer vacation. The growing baby....well he hasn't skipped a beat. I am not being sarcastic and I am not embellishing this in anyway - this baby reminds me of Lady Gaga on a trampoline after an overdose of whatever she is on. I can't possibly forget for even one minute that there is a baby just around the corner because there are no moments that this fellow is still or sleeping. The best reminder is when he has hiccups below my belly button but is doing calf raises in my rib cage. And as for the little guy's dad - he better have soaked up his vacation time because this weekend starts baby boot camp around our house. There has literally not been one thing done to get ready for another person in this house. Were the baby to happen to come tomorrow, let's say, he would sleep in our top drawer and live in a diaper that is 3 sizes too big. I definitely don't feel the nesting instincts like I did the first time but I am overwhelmed by the things that we need to do to even bring a baby home....like find the carseat! So, unfortunately, we will spend this weekend checking one of the 27 things on the "Get Ready for Baby" list (seriously, 27 things). Brad says as long as there are some cold drinks in the fridge - he is happy to see to my not-so-little list.
Anywho, here are some pictures that captured our week "away."
I played in the pool with my buddy Lee.
I ate MEXICAN on the 4th of July. My parents are nuts.
I played in the pool with the big guy. He turned the water blue....not me!
And I played in the pool with the big lady who never seemed to get out of the pool for 4 straight days. Something about being huge and hot and needing to stay wet she said.
On the last night of our vacation - I fled to our neighborhood for some much needed girl time. Let's just say 6 girls - 4 of which are "with child", a bottle of wine for the other lucky two, and paint brushes make for a fun night "out" on the town! I painted my picture for Brad's office but for some reason he has forgotten to take it to work everyday. Nights like this make me so thankful to live close to a bunch of girls - that like me, need a night to themselves every so often.
I've been avoiding the abundance of dirty laundry for the last 3 days, knowing that acknowledging the laundry will officially put an end to our summer vacation. The growing baby....well he hasn't skipped a beat. I am not being sarcastic and I am not embellishing this in anyway - this baby reminds me of Lady Gaga on a trampoline after an overdose of whatever she is on. I can't possibly forget for even one minute that there is a baby just around the corner because there are no moments that this fellow is still or sleeping. The best reminder is when he has hiccups below my belly button but is doing calf raises in my rib cage. And as for the little guy's dad - he better have soaked up his vacation time because this weekend starts baby boot camp around our house. There has literally not been one thing done to get ready for another person in this house. Were the baby to happen to come tomorrow, let's say, he would sleep in our top drawer and live in a diaper that is 3 sizes too big. I definitely don't feel the nesting instincts like I did the first time but I am overwhelmed by the things that we need to do to even bring a baby home....like find the carseat! So, unfortunately, we will spend this weekend checking one of the 27 things on the "Get Ready for Baby" list (seriously, 27 things). Brad says as long as there are some cold drinks in the fridge - he is happy to see to my not-so-little list.
Anywho, here are some pictures that captured our week "away."
I played in the pool with my buddy Lee.
I ate MEXICAN on the 4th of July. My parents are nuts.
I played in the pool with the big guy. He turned the water blue....not me!
And I played in the pool with the big lady who never seemed to get out of the pool for 4 straight days. Something about being huge and hot and needing to stay wet she said.
On the last night of our vacation - I fled to our neighborhood for some much needed girl time. Let's just say 6 girls - 4 of which are "with child", a bottle of wine for the other lucky two, and paint brushes make for a fun night "out" on the town! I painted my picture for Brad's office but for some reason he has forgotten to take it to work everyday. Nights like this make me so thankful to live close to a bunch of girls - that like me, need a night to themselves every so often.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Oh heavenly days
My old roommate, Kat, introduced me to Patty Griffin for the most part. Though she would freeze my bra or kick me to a curb if I admit this little story on the world wide web - I'll tell you anyway because I love her I would only do it if I knew she was going to be famous one day so my silly stories won't matter. She would sing in one spot in our old house, aptly named the Terrace. She has a breath taking voice but not in a Whitney Houston kinda way....more like a Jennifer Nettles or the sweet raspy voice of the girl singer in Lady Antebellum. Kat sang at my wedding and I have a cd of the moment that never leaves my disk changer in the car. It was truly one of the more special things that anyone has done for me. Anyway, she can play the guitar and sing like no other person I know. We would beg her to sing and she wouldn't but occasionally we could catch her in her spot. When we did catch her she would most often be singing a Patty Griffin song but better than Patty herself.
So, Heavenly Day by Patty Griffin has since been once of my go-to songs when the moment is just right or especially when the moments aren't seeming so right but I am needing to be reminded that it is all okay. Well, this weekend all of the moments were so right.
Brad and I have been "stay-cating" in Atlanta for the past 5 days and I don't know that I've had a more relaxing few days since our honeymoon in St. Lucia. I am sure it is the lurking "change" that has caused us to grasp these days together and squeeze ever last drop of simplicity and normalcy out of them. To be honest, it is so rare that Brad and I just sit and enjoy each other. I know that sounds harsh to admit to an online following but I think it is true for most couples but every other couple looks at other couples and thinks everything looks perfect. It's not that we sit and do the opposite and fight or throw things......we just seemed to be tired on any given normal day to really enjoy the things that first brought us together. Fortunately, this weekend was so rare and we truly have enjoyed each other - and our differences all weekend. Why does it take us not being in our own house in our normal environment to just laugh together and at each other? I don't know this answer and I don't care. The bottom line is that this vacation of sorts has truly been just what the doctor and therapist ordered.
Brooks has enjoyed exploring all umpteen thousand square feet of our temporary home. He asked me "how come our whole house would fit it in this kitchen?" I told him that love grows in small places and he gave me a big ole hug! Still, the space has been sooooo nice! Brad and I have brushed our teeth 4 times a day just because we could about run a 1/2 mile in a circle in our temporary bathroom all the while cleaning our teeth! More so, we have enjoyed the pool 18 hours out of each 24 hour day. I know a pool in a back yard can be troublesome but when you are just house sitting - it is heavenly! Brooks has taken super long afternoon naps and Brad and I have followed suit all weekend and napped on a float in the privacy of our own back yard.
Yesterday we had to run to our real home to pick up a few things and neither of us really wanted to open the door because even though we have only been 10 minutes away - we feel worlds away and even driving in the neighborhood momentarily seemed to bring an early end to our perfect getaway! So, yes, the scenery and the space and the newness of a different place have been ideal but as I said, it's the other stuff that has been so wonderful. My heart has grown bigger in just 72 hours. Any stress over the imposing of a new human in our lives has fled my shoulders (well, lets say most of it) and actually there is the first touch of excitement over this new chapter. But most of all, my heart feels so grateful for the first time in a long while.
That sounds so icky to admit but it is so true. It's not that I have been ungrateful or bitter - just kinda stale and unphased by this huge blessing. Really, I probably can say for the first time in full honesty that I know this is a blessing. As I watched Brooks learn to pick himself up this weekend when he would fall down and then proceed to almost run to get his ball out of the water - I could just about picture these two precious brothers exploring the outdoors in about a year from now while I watch - and my heart melts. Saturday I sat outside among the perfect landscaping while both of my boys slept. I just sat alone and breathed as slow as I could make myself (which isn't very slow when you are out of shape and huge!). I shut my eyes and for the first time was truly thankful to our heavenly father for all of my unexpected gifts in the past two years. As a friend wrote this weekend, my picture is not at all what I had in my head but it is soo good. It has certainly been a crazy three years for us between quick engagements, job transitions and two un-considered pregnancies...oh and two moves....but I sat Saturday and really, truly knew that the Lord knew exactly what He was doing. In the midst of giving all of these beautiful things to me and taking us through the ringer a few times - He is also drawing me so close to His heart. The devotional I've been reading, Jesus Calling, was all about gratitude on Saturday and I was so thankful that the words on the page seemed written to me - to be read at that exact time in that exact place.
As Patty Griffin's words have often followed other monumental events in the last few years...so I know those same words will not only follow but proceed this new life. I can confidently claim that God has began a slow work in my heart and with nearly 5 weeks or less until our new baby joins our family - I am anxious to receive this new blessing. It feels so goo good to feel so good....I've missed this! Thank you, Father.
Oh Heavenly day
All the clouds blew away
Got no trouble today
With anyone
The smile on your face
I live only to see
It's enough for me baby
It's enough for me
Oh heavenly day
Heavenly day
Tomorrow may rain with sorrow
Here's a little time we can borrow
Forget all our troubles in these moments so few
Only that right now the only thing that all that we really have to do
Is have ourselves a heavenly day
Lay here and watch the trees sway
Oh can't see no other way
No way
No way
Heavenly day heavenly day heavenly day
No one on my shoulder
Bringing me fears
Got no clouds up above me
Bringing me tears
Got nothing to tell you
I got nothing much to say
Only I'm glad to be here with you
On this heavenly heavenly heavenly heavenly heavenly day
Oh all the troubles gone away
Oh for awhile anyway
For awhile anyway
Heavenly day
Oh heavenly day!
And if we ever decide to come home I'll post some fun pictures of our weekend away. I am thinking if we squat here a little while longer than legally we can stay??? Right?
So, Heavenly Day by Patty Griffin has since been once of my go-to songs when the moment is just right or especially when the moments aren't seeming so right but I am needing to be reminded that it is all okay. Well, this weekend all of the moments were so right.
Brad and I have been "stay-cating" in Atlanta for the past 5 days and I don't know that I've had a more relaxing few days since our honeymoon in St. Lucia. I am sure it is the lurking "change" that has caused us to grasp these days together and squeeze ever last drop of simplicity and normalcy out of them. To be honest, it is so rare that Brad and I just sit and enjoy each other. I know that sounds harsh to admit to an online following but I think it is true for most couples but every other couple looks at other couples and thinks everything looks perfect. It's not that we sit and do the opposite and fight or throw things......we just seemed to be tired on any given normal day to really enjoy the things that first brought us together. Fortunately, this weekend was so rare and we truly have enjoyed each other - and our differences all weekend. Why does it take us not being in our own house in our normal environment to just laugh together and at each other? I don't know this answer and I don't care. The bottom line is that this vacation of sorts has truly been just what the doctor and therapist ordered.
Brooks has enjoyed exploring all umpteen thousand square feet of our temporary home. He asked me "how come our whole house would fit it in this kitchen?" I told him that love grows in small places and he gave me a big ole hug! Still, the space has been sooooo nice! Brad and I have brushed our teeth 4 times a day just because we could about run a 1/2 mile in a circle in our temporary bathroom all the while cleaning our teeth! More so, we have enjoyed the pool 18 hours out of each 24 hour day. I know a pool in a back yard can be troublesome but when you are just house sitting - it is heavenly! Brooks has taken super long afternoon naps and Brad and I have followed suit all weekend and napped on a float in the privacy of our own back yard.
Yesterday we had to run to our real home to pick up a few things and neither of us really wanted to open the door because even though we have only been 10 minutes away - we feel worlds away and even driving in the neighborhood momentarily seemed to bring an early end to our perfect getaway! So, yes, the scenery and the space and the newness of a different place have been ideal but as I said, it's the other stuff that has been so wonderful. My heart has grown bigger in just 72 hours. Any stress over the imposing of a new human in our lives has fled my shoulders (well, lets say most of it) and actually there is the first touch of excitement over this new chapter. But most of all, my heart feels so grateful for the first time in a long while.
That sounds so icky to admit but it is so true. It's not that I have been ungrateful or bitter - just kinda stale and unphased by this huge blessing. Really, I probably can say for the first time in full honesty that I know this is a blessing. As I watched Brooks learn to pick himself up this weekend when he would fall down and then proceed to almost run to get his ball out of the water - I could just about picture these two precious brothers exploring the outdoors in about a year from now while I watch - and my heart melts. Saturday I sat outside among the perfect landscaping while both of my boys slept. I just sat alone and breathed as slow as I could make myself (which isn't very slow when you are out of shape and huge!). I shut my eyes and for the first time was truly thankful to our heavenly father for all of my unexpected gifts in the past two years. As a friend wrote this weekend, my picture is not at all what I had in my head but it is soo good. It has certainly been a crazy three years for us between quick engagements, job transitions and two un-considered pregnancies...oh and two moves....but I sat Saturday and really, truly knew that the Lord knew exactly what He was doing. In the midst of giving all of these beautiful things to me and taking us through the ringer a few times - He is also drawing me so close to His heart. The devotional I've been reading, Jesus Calling, was all about gratitude on Saturday and I was so thankful that the words on the page seemed written to me - to be read at that exact time in that exact place.
As Patty Griffin's words have often followed other monumental events in the last few years...so I know those same words will not only follow but proceed this new life. I can confidently claim that God has began a slow work in my heart and with nearly 5 weeks or less until our new baby joins our family - I am anxious to receive this new blessing. It feels so goo good to feel so good....I've missed this! Thank you, Father.
Oh Heavenly day
All the clouds blew away
Got no trouble today
With anyone
The smile on your face
I live only to see
It's enough for me baby
It's enough for me
Oh heavenly day
Heavenly day
Tomorrow may rain with sorrow
Here's a little time we can borrow
Forget all our troubles in these moments so few
Only that right now the only thing that all that we really have to do
Is have ourselves a heavenly day
Lay here and watch the trees sway
Oh can't see no other way
No way
No way
Heavenly day heavenly day heavenly day
No one on my shoulder
Bringing me fears
Got no clouds up above me
Bringing me tears
Got nothing to tell you
I got nothing much to say
Only I'm glad to be here with you
On this heavenly heavenly heavenly heavenly heavenly day
Oh all the troubles gone away
Oh for awhile anyway
For awhile anyway
Heavenly day
Oh heavenly day!
And if we ever decide to come home I'll post some fun pictures of our weekend away. I am thinking if we squat here a little while longer than legally we can stay??? Right?
Friday, July 2, 2010
To the rescue!
Crazy woman here. Good early morning to you. Why am I up so early this Friday morning? It's NOT because of a wobbling-one-year-old. It's not even because of a wiggling 8.5 month fetus. It's not due to itching, heart burn, or the need to use the bathroom either. No, friends. I am up early because I have a morning all to myself and I went to bed dreaming of the normal things I would do when I woke up all-by-my-crazy-self.
Last night Brad came home to a mess. This isn't typical so I don't mind sharing. I was in his pajamas (yes, the only thing that fits) and I was reading Brooks the Elmo book on the floor for the 6th time through a stream of much needed crazy-woman tears. After he assessed the scene and realized there were no cutting devices or ropes hanging from the ceiling he sent me straight to my first haven - the bath tub. Maybe it was 7 o'clock on a Thursday night with no dinner in sight but Mr. B's a smart man and he can spot a dangerous scene right away.
I crept into a long, hot bath (admittedly, probably too hot for a baby in the belly) and I would have stayed there all night long were it not for the pregnancy-itching that seems to worsen with heat. Sweet - it's July and only set to get hotter!) 20 minutes later I hear the door shut and Mr. Husband of the Year has done what he knows to do best when his wife is on the verge of breakdown (though I think I had already passed that point).......call grandma! So sure enough Brooks got to have a much needed spend the night party with Nise last night. I don't need to know anything more than when I finally called my mom to make sure she had the "package" - it was nearly 9:30 and Brooks was splashing around in the tub for the 2nd time in the night (following a 2nd dinner, a trip to feed the ducks, and a little ice-cream). Truly what happens at grandma's stays at grandma's I guess. I don't think the little guy has EVER seen the 9 o'clock hour! Oh well, Nise can enjoy any repercussions of a sleepy baby this morning while I.........
* will drink coffee by myself with NO cartoons on in the back ground
* will spend as much time as I want reading and having some prayer time before a God who I know thinks I am crazy, too
*will enjoy a used to be favorite breakfast at a local coffee shop with the Mr. of the house
*will leisurely fold laundry and put away dishes without rushing before a baby wake up
*will take Amos, our first child, to the dog park like we used to do every single day and show him some long overdo attention
*will shower again just because I can and there will be no little guy sitting on the bathroom floor entertaining himself with toilet paper while I quickly shave (hence, cut) my legs
Thank you Mr. B and Nise for coming to the rescue for the little guy. He couldn't figure out when Elmo started crying in the same book that we read everyday, multiple times a day, and I could tell he was a little concerned. I certainly don't mind a few tears if it means Brooks cuddles up in my lap and lays his head on my shoulder in his own way to assure me that I am not crazy....all the time. See you this afternoon little guy!
(And just to ease your dear, worrying minds....a few tears are pretty typical from me when I get home from the bi-weekly doctor's check up. I guess the reality of the "change" sets in a little more each time and I leave feeling completely inadequate, completely unprepared, completely large, and in need of just a few tears. This is another post for another day but it has alot to do with me not feeling the way I think I should feel once I hear this baby's heart beat and hear the news that he is perfectly healthy and happy. I carry alot of guilt over the "shoulds" in my life and per some very close friends counseling - that will be the first thing I sit and pray over this morning.....letting go of the "shoulds". Another wise friend told me yesterday "Don't go should all over yourself, Betsy." Perfectly said, dear friend. Perfectly said.)
HAPPY 4th of JULY WEEKEND! This is my favorite of Holiday weekends because of so many favorite things........family, watermelon, cold drinks, sales at the stores, pool time, hot dogs, rice krispy treats, the color Blue and Red together.......enjoy this weekend with your favorite people! Mark my words - I WILL BE AT A BEACH, LAKE, or MOUNTAIN WITH MY FAMILY NEXT YEAR. NO MORE PREGNANCY'S TO KEEP ME IN ATLANTA AND AWAY FROM THE MAGIC THAT HAPPENS ON THIS HOLIDAY WITH FAMILIES. So, please, for me - enjoy yourself...especially if you are sitting on a beach or floating on a lake somewhere with all your siblings and family near by. I am admittedly jealous.
Last night Brad came home to a mess. This isn't typical so I don't mind sharing. I was in his pajamas (yes, the only thing that fits) and I was reading Brooks the Elmo book on the floor for the 6th time through a stream of much needed crazy-woman tears. After he assessed the scene and realized there were no cutting devices or ropes hanging from the ceiling he sent me straight to my first haven - the bath tub. Maybe it was 7 o'clock on a Thursday night with no dinner in sight but Mr. B's a smart man and he can spot a dangerous scene right away.
I crept into a long, hot bath (admittedly, probably too hot for a baby in the belly) and I would have stayed there all night long were it not for the pregnancy-itching that seems to worsen with heat. Sweet - it's July and only set to get hotter!) 20 minutes later I hear the door shut and Mr. Husband of the Year has done what he knows to do best when his wife is on the verge of breakdown (though I think I had already passed that point).......call grandma! So sure enough Brooks got to have a much needed spend the night party with Nise last night. I don't need to know anything more than when I finally called my mom to make sure she had the "package" - it was nearly 9:30 and Brooks was splashing around in the tub for the 2nd time in the night (following a 2nd dinner, a trip to feed the ducks, and a little ice-cream). Truly what happens at grandma's stays at grandma's I guess. I don't think the little guy has EVER seen the 9 o'clock hour! Oh well, Nise can enjoy any repercussions of a sleepy baby this morning while I.........
* will drink coffee by myself with NO cartoons on in the back ground
* will spend as much time as I want reading and having some prayer time before a God who I know thinks I am crazy, too
*will enjoy a used to be favorite breakfast at a local coffee shop with the Mr. of the house
*will leisurely fold laundry and put away dishes without rushing before a baby wake up
*will take Amos, our first child, to the dog park like we used to do every single day and show him some long overdo attention
*will shower again just because I can and there will be no little guy sitting on the bathroom floor entertaining himself with toilet paper while I quickly shave (hence, cut) my legs
Thank you Mr. B and Nise for coming to the rescue for the little guy. He couldn't figure out when Elmo started crying in the same book that we read everyday, multiple times a day, and I could tell he was a little concerned. I certainly don't mind a few tears if it means Brooks cuddles up in my lap and lays his head on my shoulder in his own way to assure me that I am not crazy....all the time. See you this afternoon little guy!
(And just to ease your dear, worrying minds....a few tears are pretty typical from me when I get home from the bi-weekly doctor's check up. I guess the reality of the "change" sets in a little more each time and I leave feeling completely inadequate, completely unprepared, completely large, and in need of just a few tears. This is another post for another day but it has alot to do with me not feeling the way I think I should feel once I hear this baby's heart beat and hear the news that he is perfectly healthy and happy. I carry alot of guilt over the "shoulds" in my life and per some very close friends counseling - that will be the first thing I sit and pray over this morning.....letting go of the "shoulds". Another wise friend told me yesterday "Don't go should all over yourself, Betsy." Perfectly said, dear friend. Perfectly said.)
HAPPY 4th of JULY WEEKEND! This is my favorite of Holiday weekends because of so many favorite things........family, watermelon, cold drinks, sales at the stores, pool time, hot dogs, rice krispy treats, the color Blue and Red together.......enjoy this weekend with your favorite people! Mark my words - I WILL BE AT A BEACH, LAKE, or MOUNTAIN WITH MY FAMILY NEXT YEAR. NO MORE PREGNANCY'S TO KEEP ME IN ATLANTA AND AWAY FROM THE MAGIC THAT HAPPENS ON THIS HOLIDAY WITH FAMILIES. So, please, for me - enjoy yourself...especially if you are sitting on a beach or floating on a lake somewhere with all your siblings and family near by. I am admittedly jealous.
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