Raines Day's

22 keys of a great life

2010-05-01T12:24:00.002-07:00

1. Marry the right person. This one decision will determine 90% of your happiness or misery.
2. Work at something you enjoy and that's worthy of your time and talent.
3. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
4. Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
5. Be forgiving of yourself and others.
6. Be generous.
7. Have a grateful heart.
8. Persistence, persistence, persistence.
9. Discipline yourself to save money on even the most modest salary.
10. Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
11. Commit yourself to constant improvement.
12. Commit yourself to quality.
13. Understand that happiness is not based on possessions, power or prestige, but on relationship with people you love and respect.
14. Be loyal.
15. Be honest.
16. Be a self-starter.
17. Be decisive even it it means you'll sometimes be wrong.
18. Stop blaming others. Take responsibility for every area of your life.
19. Be bold and courageous. When you look back on your life, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the ones you did.
20. Take good care of those you love.
21. Don't do anything that wouldn't make your Mom proud.
By
H. Jackson Brown Jr.
I would add one the most important one.... give every moment of the day to the one who loves you above all else. Live your life for the glory of God

Ultimate Blog Party

2010-04-09T08:10:00.010-07:00

Hey! So glad you stopped by today to say hello. Come on in and stay awhile, have a look around, I tidyed up just for you! For those who regulary read my blog (thanks mom and dad) Go check out the Ultimate Blog Party! So much fun and a chance to win lots for really great prizes!

Introductions:
I always find these introduction/welcome posts so hard to write...its seems like a bit of a personal ad, KWIM? Trying to put your best "face" on and hope that other bloggers will like you from a two minute visit. Speed dating blogger style :)

My name is Raine and I have been blogging for almost 4 years. I am a 27 years old and a SAHM. I love journaling about my children and our adventures together. My favorite subject to write about is my kids, as you can easily tell by have a quick peek around.
My blog is functional, but pretty basic and it could really use a design overhall. Anyone willing to give me one? Anyone...No, oh well doesent hurt to ask :) For more about me check out my 47 questions and answers meme

I have been married for nearly 7 years to my wonderful husband
(click here to read 10 reasons I STILL want to be married)and together we have two beautiful children, Naomi (3) and Nathan (10 months). My life is full of playing dress up, coloring, changing diapers, and trips to park. I wouldn't change it for the world.

I own a small handmade jewelery business called The Glass Polkadot Co. It keeps me busy and is a great creative outlet for me. You can see what I am creating here. Join my facebook group and you can stay up to date on all the latest designs and news ! I'm even giving away a necklace for the party! Check out the UBP contest page and look for #10 (US and Canada prizes).

I'm heading back to the main UBP page to go pick out the prizes that I would love to win, why don't you go and do the same. Then I'm going to hop around the blogsphere and say "hello". Can't wait to meet some new friends!

Thanks for stopping by. It was so nice to meet you. I would love it if you would leave a comment telling me you were here! Have a great day!

*************************************************************************************
Update: After much debating I have narrowed down my list for prefered prizes

Any gift cards or cash:
USC 3.8.13.17.25.32.33.35.37
Blog design:
INT 3.5.8.10.11.14.15 USC 16
Cookbooks:
USC 53.56

I have the greatest work in the world...

2010-04-07T11:11:00.005-07:00

My Work
I have the greatest work in the world;
The job of rocking a baby to sleep,
That of guiding his tottering feet,
A baby's clothes to launder and fold,
A precious life to shape and mold,
A drink to give from a little cup,
At night her toys to gather up,
Hurts to heal and fears to quell,
A baby to keep clean and well,
A stack of diapers to put,
Oh, what a happy worthwhile day!
I am a "Mother."

I have the greatest work in the world;
A husband to encourage when things go wrong,
When he comes from work to greet with a song,
Denims and shirts to wash and mend,
A helping hand, when needed, to lend,
Three times a day is meals to cook,
To strive to be my best to look,
His back to rub at the close of the day,
For his faithfulness to God I pray,
When hubby's in the field I take lemonade,
for all these tasks his love has Paid.
I am a " Wife."

I have the greatest work in the world;
A home to keep happy, clean and bright,
Make things go smooth and strive for the right,
Jams to cook and jellies to make,
Cookies and pies and bread to bake,
Washing, ironing, and sewing to do,
So many tasks, will I ever get through?
Lettuce to wash and peas to pick,
floors to scrub, lost items to seek,
Dishes to wash and windows to shine,
These and many more tasks are mine.
I am a "Homemaker."

Help me, Father, to faithfully work,
Forgive if I unconsciously shirk,
give me the patience and love I pray,
To keep myself in duties way;
With all the hustle that each day brings
May I not neglect the needing things;
Each day to spend time alone with Thee
That Jesus Christ be seen in me.
Thank you for husband, our home, our girls and boys;
Thank you for love which brings me much joy.
Thank you, Lord.

~Mary Lou Burkholder

April Fools Day

2010-04-01T10:49:00.002-07:00

I'm in love with these kids and that's no joke!

Siblings?

2010-03-20T22:24:00.003-07:00

Naomi and Nathan

So, do you think they look alike?

Yippee! She is THREE

2010-03-20T22:07:00.004-07:00

Naomi celebrated her third birthday last week, and we had a little party for her with her friends. She really wanted to have a Dora party, and so a Dora party is what she got :)

My baby girl...

Has become a little lady....

Naomi my darling, you are a joy! I love you! Happy Birthday!

Catch up time!

2010-02-18T16:28:00.001-08:00

WOW! Is is really possible that it is already March!! What!!!!!
My goodness, if anyone even checks my blog anymore, you must think that I have dropped off the face of the earth!
I must say I have been faithfully checking all of your blogs daily, but for some reason I have not had the desire/energy to update my own. Don't really know why.... but anyway..... I guess I'll try to sumarize the past few months in a few posts over the next few days.

Christmas Wishes

2009-12-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas!

7 months

2009-12-22T17:28:00.008-08:00

My Dearest Nathan,

Today is your seventh month birthday! Wow! It cannot be possible that you joined our family 7 months ago. My precious son you are a wonderful addition to our family and we thank God for you everyday.
You are a little chunky monkey! You came into this world a big boy and you have continued to grow like a weed. The last time we weighed you the scale showed 22 lbs :) That is nearly half the weight of your sister! You are wearing 18-24 month clothes and are just so rolly polly and lovable. I could spend all day kissing your cheeks and snuggling with you.

In the past month we have begun to have a glimpse of what your personality is going to be like. You generously give smiles to everyone you meet and are rarely shy of strangers. You are always ready to give slobbery kisses and hugs to your Oma's and Mommy. Although you are generally easy going, we are noticing that you have a temper! This shines through when you get frustrated or you sister is "playing" a little rough with you. You don't hesitate to let everyone around you know that you are unhappy when things don't go your way.

You are learning so much, and growing up so fast. You can confidently sit on your own. You can also clap your hands and bounce up and down when you are excited. You are SO ready to crawl, but you have not quite mastered it yet. You can get on all fours from sitting, but soon fall down onto your belly. Once laying down you easily roll across the room, sometimes we look away for only a second and you are on the other side of the room. You have the best laugh, and the cutes grin. Daddy and I know that your little mischievous grin is something we will see a lot of in the next few years as you learn about and explore your world.

Your sister loves you. Plain and simple. She loves making you laugh, and is often the one who can get you laughing just by walking by. You delight in playing with her and especially pulling her hair! She calls you "little buddy", or "buddy boy". When she hears you cry from your crib she runs toward your room yelling "Don't worry buddy I'm on the way!"

Our nicknames for your are "Nater-tater" and "Spuddy-buddy". They have developed over time and I think they are cute. I'm not sure if you will agree when you get older, but oh well :)
Although I have posted less about your first year, I think I have enjoyed it more. I am more relaxed this time and I am trying to take more time to treasure each moment. And lets face it I don't have as much time to be on the computer now that there are two of you.

You are a wonderful, and we know that it is not because of us. You are such a gift to us from God. He knew exactly what we needed in our family, it is YOU! Thank you for being such a wonderful son and letting us join you on the adventure of growing up!

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Christams Giveaways at 5 Min for Moms

2009-11-06T11:43:00.002-08:00

There is a great series of giveaways happening at 5 Min for Moms. This is as great resource for parents everywhere! Check them out and enter to win some great prizes!

Rice Cereal

2009-11-03T15:13:00.002-08:00

Nathan started eating rice cereal this week. He is not to sure about it yet....
I can't believe he is already old enough to start eating solid food. Wow!

Balarina

2009-11-03T15:04:00.002-08:00

Naomi has started dance once a week. I have been looking for an activity that I could enroll her in, and I thought that she was to young to join a dance class. My friends Marilyn has her daughter enrolled at a studio and for the month of October each dancer could invite a friend to participate for free. We decided to check it out and Naomi LOVED it!! She can't wait for Wednesdays to come and is always talking about dance and her wonderful teacher Miss Jessica. Miss Jessica asked me if we wanted to have Naomi join the class for the rest of the year, so we decided to go for it! I am really looking forward to going to her recital at the end of the year. It is going to be so cute!

Halloween

2009-11-03T14:55:00.003-08:00

This year we had the kids dressed up as animals. Our church hosted a Halloween alternative that was themed "Noah's Ark", so their costumes fit right in:). Naomi dressed up as a cow and Nathan dressed up as a turtle. They both looked so cute.
Naomi just realized the wonders of candy and has enjoyed tasting some of her treats from hallowen. Needless to say, these extra shots of sugar make for some interesting outbursts of energy and silliness.

Siblings

2009-11-03T14:47:00.003-08:00

It is SO wonderful to see the love between my two kids grow! Naomi loves to hold Nathan and is so helpful in taking care of him. She is so excited to have a little brother and keeps him entertained when Mommy is busy. He always smiles and giggles when he sees her. When Naomi snuggles with Nathan she always says "Nathe is my friend. We are best friends. I love my brother/sister." To cute!

Family Pictures

2009-11-03T13:17:00.007-08:00

We ventured out in the begining of September to take some family pictures with my side of the family. We hired Leah from Leah Shannon Photography again. If you remember she captured these fantastic pictures of Naomi when she turned one. Leah is such a talented photographer. Here are a few of my favorites from that day:

Andreas and Diana's Wedding

2009-09-12T16:29:00.005-07:00

My cousin Andreas got married last weekend to a wonderful woman he met while working as a customs agent at YVR.
The day was great and the rain even held off until the reception. The bride was radient and the groom was handsome. It was such a beautiful occasion and we were glad to be a part of it. Naomi was honoured to be one of the flower girls and looked so cute all dressed up. Here are a few of the pictures from last Sunday.

Naomi's hair.
The cutest little flowergirl ever !
Mommy and Naomi
Daddy and Naomi

Naomi and Alana (my cousin)
The vows
Cutting the cake

Only Daddy Works?

2009-08-24T13:07:00.009-07:00

Today while putting Naomi to bed for her nap, the following conversation took place:

Me: "OK, Naomi, time to go in your bed."

Naomi: "You sit in my chair beside me?"

Me: "No sweetheart, Mommy has do go do some work around the house..."

Naomi: "No Mommy. You don't work. Only Daddy works! You stay home with me. You don't go to work like Daddy"

Yes, my sweet girl. You are right. Every day I count it as a privilege to be at home with you. I am so lucky and blessed to be at home and be a mommy to you and Nathan. The best "job" in the world.

3 month old boy

2009-08-22T06:00:00.001-07:00

My dearest Nathan,

Today marks your official 3 month birthday. In some ways it feels like you just came home and in other ways it is hard to remember what life was like without you. You are such a joy to have in our family. Everyone told me that my second baby could never be as calm as the first, but you have proven them all wrong. You are even more easy going than your sister was as a baby.
You are such a wonderfully content little boy. I am so lucky! You love to lay in your swing and watch your sister play. You get so excited when she comes into your view. You love being snuggled, but I am learning that you also need time to yourself just to lay and play.

Your sister is so in love with having you around. She always wants to hold you and help me take care of you. She likes to call you "Nathe", which I think is cute. Hopefully it will stick. It is my hope that the two of you will be close siblings and always look out for each other.

You love your bath time! As soon as we put you in the water you are smiling from ear to ear. You get so excited that you splash water all over the bathroom, and who ever is bathing you is nearly as wet as you are by the time the bath is over :) I love the way the top of your head smells after you come out of the bath and how you always need to eat as soon as you are dressed, even if you have just eaten before you went in.

Sleeping is going well. Most nights you fall asleep by 10 pm and are up around 3 am for a quick feeding and then you go right back to sleep and often sleep till 7 or 8! All I can say is "thank-you"!
You and Daddy have a special relationship. Your biggest smiles are always reserved for him. You love to lay beside him and tell him all about your day when he gets home from work. Your daddy is so proud of you and loves dream about the things you will do together one day.

Nathan, you are an amazing son. Even in your few months of life you have blessed me and your daddy so much. I love you. I am lucky to be your mommy, and I am eagerly anticipating all that we will share together as you grow up to be a wonderful young man.

Love Mommy

Summer Days...

2009-08-19T22:43:00.004-07:00

I had every intention of blogging more often than I have in the last month. We have had such a wonderful summer, filled with so much fun and HOT weather :) We have so many picture that it would take far to long to post then each individually so I opted for collages instead.
(Click on any collage to expand it and have a closer look if you like.)

Our adventures included...

A week long vacation at a cabin on Cultus Lake with Ron's family.

The August long weekend camping with my family in Hope.

The rest of these summer days have been spent enjoying time together with our family.

6 years

2009-08-10T11:45:00.006-07:00

It's amazing to see how far we have come.....
From this.......
And all this...

To yesterday....
And for everyday to come....
I love you with all my heart and I am so proud to be your wife. These last 6 years have been a joy to share with you.
"When things are changing all around us
and the world seems too fast,
don't forget I'll be right beside you, loving you.
What I feel for you is deep, total, and enduring-
a love you can count on without ever having to wonder.
So when you look ahead to the future
or look back at how things used to be,
don't forget to look beside you,
because that's where you'll find me,
loving you with all my heart." (unkown)

Happy 31 years!

2009-07-22T15:52:00.003-07:00

Dear Mom and Dad Klassen,
On your 31st wedding anniversary,
It is nearly 6 years ago that I became Ron's wife and your daughter-in-law. Through the years I have come to realize that you both are the most amazing parents-in-law that I could have ever asked for. You have opened your hearts towards me and always made me feel like another daughter. I know that not all "in-law" relationships are like the one we are blessed to share. Thank you for loving me, Ron, and our children so much. I feel so lucky to be counted as one of your family. Your generosity towards us is unbelievable and we are so thankful for you.
Thank you for setting a good example of what marriage is all about. Supporting each other and working together joyfully. I know that not each day of these last 31 years has been without its trials and hurts, but I do know that your commitment to each other outshines any dark clouds that have stood in your way.
I love you both and I wish you a very happy anniversary today. Best wishes for at least another 31 years!
Love,
Raine

Comming soon...

2009-07-21T17:26:00.002-07:00

a new post. I promise. No excuses, just life marching on everyday. I am doing my best just to live it and find time to write about it later:). To keep you comming back I'll just post a little cuteness for now. Enjoy. Nathan at 6 weeks old

One Month Already

2009-06-19T14:31:00.003-07:00

Today is exactly four weeks since Nathan joined our family. I can't believe that it has already been a month that he has been here! Nathan continues to be a very easy going baby. I always hesitate to write about how easy he has been so far because it seems as soon as I say it everything changes. He is on a good 3 hour schedule and often sleeps longer than 3 hours in a row at night. He is rarley fussy for no reason, and only cries when he is hungry or has gas.
Naomi is still head over heals for her little brother. I thought that the "honeymoon" phase would be over by now and that she may show some jelously, but so far she is just so loving towards him. She always is asking to hold him and wants to give him kisses. I am so glad that this transition has been going so well.

Happy Birthday Dad

2009-06-19T14:20:00.004-07:00

Yesterday was my Dad's birthday! He is 52 years young. So we all went out for dinner to White Spot, and then back to my parents for dessert. Love you Dad. Here is the photographic evidence that we had a wonderful time!
The Birthday boy and his grandson.
Oma and her grandkids
Big smile from our big girl
Us
My brother Dan and his girlfriend Daisy
And all of us together :)

And the winner is...

2009-06-13T18:53:00.003-07:00

I bet you all thought that I forgot about my baby pool promise. Nope, so without further ado. Drum roll please........

Alexa is the winner. She guess a baby boy born on May 22! Way to go Alexa!!

Alexa, I would like to give you a small prize for playing along and guessing right, so I am going to leave a comment on your blog or facebook and hopefully we can be in touch soon for you to get your prize.

For all the rest of you, sorry there is no consolation prizes... I would say better luck next time, but I am not sure there will be a next time. Oh well, thanks for playing along.

Baby K'tan Rave

2009-06-11T22:10:00.007-07:00

I am completely new to the whole "baby wearing" world.
When Naomi was born I borrowed a conventional carrier (Baby Bjorn) and just used it for quick trips into the mall. She did not like it at all when she was a newborn and so I only ended up using it a few times when she was old enough to face forward. She is a solid little girl and soon she was just to heavy to carry in the Bjorn so I stuck with the stroller. I really wished that I could have carried her longer.
When we found out that we were expecting Nathan, (who arrived 3 weeks ago), I knew that I would need my hands free as much as possible in order to still care for my active two year old and take care of the house. I researched a lot of carriers but I found that most were not as versatile as I would have liked. Since money is always a little tight I knew that the carrier I bought would have to last more than a few months or it could be a waste. After much debate and chatting with those who know more about baby wearing than I do I decided to order the Baby K'tan

I am defiantly not an expert on baby carriers but I LOVE the Baby K'tan. It can be used from birth to 40 lbs and has 8 different carrying positions. So I know I will be able to use it for a long time. Right now I am using the cradle position with Nathan since he is only three weeks old, but I can't wait to try out the other positions soon. Check out their website for more info and even an instructional video for how to use it.
I like that it is made of cotton and does not have any buckles or snaps to worry about. They also have a line of carriers that are made of completely organic cotton. There are lots of colors to choose from and you can even customize your K'tan. I also like that it comes in different sizes so that the fit is better. Most of the other carriers I looked at did not offer as much versatility as the Baby Ktan, and often felt really small for my plus size body.

The first time I put Nathan in the K'tan I knew I would be using it a lot. He felt SO secure in the cradle position and it was SO comfortable.
I anticipate using the Ktan a lot since the infant car seat gets really heavy after a while, especially with a big boy:). I have already carried Nathan around the house while I am doing chores and I even wore him at Ron's softball game this past week. I am looking forward to many more opportunities to use this great carrier in the months and years to come.

As of late...

2009-06-10T23:29:00.003-07:00

Since I know most (ok all) of you stop by for the pictures, here you go. Here is a taste of the cuteness that has been filling our house in the past few weeks. Enjoy.

The Story of Nathan

2009-05-29T09:00:00.019-07:00

In honor of Nathan's one week birthday I thought I had better update the blog with his birth story. If you missed the events leading up to last friday you can read about them by scrolling down.
Last Thursday was a nice day spent with just me and Naomi. We went to storytime at the local library, had McDonalds for lunch, and shared lots of hugs and snuggles. During her nap I got a call from the maternity ward at ARH (click on the link to see pictures of the new hospital) and they told me that my section was scheduled for 9:15 on Friday morning and that we should be at the hospital at 8:00. That evening Ron's parents brought us dinner and we spent the evening together, just the three of us. Around 8:00 we dropped Naomi off at my parents house again and gave her lots of hugs and kisses. It was hard to believe that my baby girl would be a big sister the next day.
Ron and I had a great night sleep, although both of us were feeling nervous and excited.
On Friday morning we woke up and headed to the hospital. When we got there the nurses were saying that every room in the maternity ward was full. It had been a very busy night:). They got me all ready for surgery and took us down the hall to the OR. While we were waiting we met with our surgon (Dr. Goswami) and she assured us that everything would be fine and had us sign some concent forms.
At 9:15, as scheduled, I was wheeled into the OR for my spinal. Unfortunalty, it did not work and I had to be put under general anisthetic, just like when Naomi was born.
Then finally after the months of waiting, Nathan Henry Klassen made his entrance into the word at 9:56am on Friday, May 22, 2009. Ron was able to see him right away and watch the nurse weigh and measure him. Everyone was suprised to hear how heavy he was. 11 lbs 5 oz and 23 inches long! A beautiful baby boy!

I woke up in recovery and soon was transfered to our room. Ron was waiting for me and told me that Nathan was in the NICU. Nathan was having trouble maintaining his blood sugar levels because he was such a big baby. As soon as I could I asked Ron to bring me to the NICU to see our son.

When I first saw him my inital reaction was that he looked a lot like Naomi did when she was first born. It was so nice to finally see him and hold him in my arms. The nurses had tried to give him an IV 4 times, but they couldn't get it in because he is so chubby. Instead they inserted a feeding tube in his nose so that they could constantly feed him formula to keep his blood sugars regulated.
I got up every 4 hours for the next day and night to go visit him and nurse him. He nursed really well right away, but was not getting enough since my milk had not come in yet. The nurses tested him by taking blood from his heel every few hours. His sugars thankfully stayed at proper levels.
After 24hrs in the NICU our little buddy was finally able to join us in our room. It was so nice to have him so close by. Just before he came to our room Nathan got so frusterated with having the tape on his face he pulled out his feeding tube and it left a huge red mark on his cheek. Although he was nursing well he still needed a topup of formula after each feed, and he eagarly gobbled this down every few hours.

We enjoyed many visitors during the next day, but the most special momment was when Naomi got to meet her little brother. It was so wonderful to see how gentle and loving she was towards him. She just held his hand and kept saying "Hi, Hi" in a quiet voice. We asked her if she wanted to sing a song for Nathan and she said yes. Then she sang "Jesus loves me" without any prompting from us.

Ron and I both missed her so much while we were in the hospital. She seemed so indepedant when she came to visit us and didn't seem upset about spending the weekend with Opa and Oma. In fact it was quite the opposite. She just kept saying that she wanted to have a sleepover at Omas house. We know she was well taken care of and obviously had a wonderful time.
The next evening we got the ok to go home. We packed up all our things and our precious "little" son and began our new life as a family of four.

Things have been going well since we got home. He has been up for a few hours every night except for last night, but sleeps well durring the day. Even when Naomi is playing her recorder right by his bassinet:) He is now completely on breastmilk and does not need any formula. This is such an answer to prayer, because I was worried that he would not nurse well after getting used to having a full tummy of formula. So far he is nursing like a champ and no longer needs to have the formula to feel full.
Naomi is adjusting well and really seems to love her little brother. She is loving having her daddy home to play with all day and all the extra attention.
We have been so blessed by our families. They have come to visit every day and taken turns bringing us dinner every night since we have been home. Thankyou, we love you all!

I love my little family so much and I am enjoying each day with them. I think this post is definalty long enough. If you have read all the way to the end "thank-you", and if you just stoped by for the pictures "thanks" also :) I just had to get this all down to preserve my memories since the days have a way of running into each other and I don't want to forget all the little details of my little mans big day.

Nathan Henry Klassen

2009-05-26T20:13:00.002-07:00

May 22 @ 9:56 AM
11lbs 5oz

I'll blog the whole story later, but for now I am going to enjoy my beautiful children and wonderful husband.

The best laid plans....

2009-05-18T10:06:00.005-07:00

Last weekend turn out to be SO different than the one we had planned. Talk about toying with a pregnant woman's emotions!
It all started last Thursday at my normal doctor's appointment. My blood pressure was up, but thankfully not dangerous, so I was sent to the hospital for a Non-stress test. (Basically checking baby's heart rate, movement and my blood pressure). The results of this test were that my blood pressure was still up so they had the lab come up to do some blood work. The nurses at the hospital called the doctor with my results and he said to come in again on Saturday and if my BP was still up I should be prepared to have a C-section that day. So, I went home and told Ron the plan and we prepared to have a baby on Saturday. It seemed like perfect timing. My parents were talking Naomi for the long weekend, and Ron would be home all the following week.
I got a call that afternoon to go see my doctor the next morning because they found white blood cells in my urine which indicated an infection of some sort.
Friday morning Ron stayed home from work and I went to the doctors to see what the diagnose was. Bladder infection! All the pressure and discomfort I had been feeling was not Braxon Hicks but rather this silly bladder infection. They put me on antibiotics and I began to feel a lot better, even after only a few doses.
That night my parents took us out for dinner to Greek Island and then took Naomi to their house for the night so that we could relax and be at the hopstial early the next morning.

Saturday morning came and we both felt such peace about the whole situation. We knew that in a few hours we would be parents again and life would be forever changed. We got up to the maternity ward and checked in. They hooked me up to the machines for another NST, and this time my BP was great. In fact it was the lowest it had been in months! I attribute it all to those who were praying for us and the peace that passes all understanding from God above.
The doctor came in to chat with us about the options. I had wanted a VBAC (vaginal birth after Cesarean) from the beginning and therefore had not scheduled a C-section. He said that he wanted to give us every opportunity to have a natural birth if possible, however we could also just give the word and it would be a C-section, so he suggested we talk to the obstetrician.
The obstetrician went over all the risks of a section and had us sign some forms. She was not able to do the surgery that day, and she could not justify a c-section before my due date. She told us that her next available OR time was for Friday May 22. I was disappointed. Although a C-section was not my first choice, by this time I had accepted the fact that this was how it was going to be. When she said that I would have to wait nearly another whole week I could not help but get upset. She told us that her office would contact us to confirm about what time on Friday early the next week.
So, we headed home with all our bags still packed and an empty car seat. We had a nice lunch together and then picked up Naomi from my parents place. We enjoyed the rest of our long weekend with friends and even took Naomi down to White Rock to play in the sand and water. She had a fabulous time.

On Monday I got a call from the obstetrician's office and they told me that Friday was full, so I was an add-on for the following Monday (May 25th), but they couldn't guarantee that it would happen that day. Talk about frustrating!!! I was so sick and tired of hearing, "Well, it MIGHT happen", or "If there are no emergencies before you..." Ahhh! All I want is to have this baby already.
The hospital called on Tuesday morning and asked me to come in on Wednesday morning for my pre-op appointment to go over things for my "possible" section on Monday.
So today I headed to my appointment and answered all the questions and had even more blood work done. Just as I was leaving the obstetrician popped her head into the office and told me that one of the women who was scheduled for Friday just had her baby. So that meant that I went from "possibly Monday" to for sure on Friday!
I am waiting for the hospital to call me tomorrow to tell me what time I have to come in on Friday, but at least I know that by the weekend we will be a family of four!
Sorry this post got so long, I really wanted to get down all the details for my own memories. If you don't hear from in in a while, rest assured it is because I am enjoying my newest baby and trying to recover.

Baby Poll Results

2009-05-09T15:46:00.003-07:00

Here are all your guesses:

Daniel - Boy, May 13, 7lbs, 10:30am
Michelle - Boy, May 14, 9lbs 2oz, evening
Angela - Boy, May 19, 8lbs 4oz, 4:18pm
Marilyn - Boy, May 20, 8lbs 11oz, 7:43am
Alexa - Boy, May 22, 7lbs 5oz, 4am
There are a lot of other "unofficial" guesses floating around. The general feeling seems to be that it will be a boy. I guess we will have to wait and see. Just over a week left until D-day!

Anxious Anticipation

2009-05-06T13:24:00.006-07:00

These are the last few days of being the mom of one. I'm nervous about the adjustment. My mind is filled with so many questions: Will I be able to handle being the mom of two? Will Naomi get enough attention once baby comes? Will she act out? What will I do if they both need me at the same time? How will I ever get anything done around the house with two beautiful children to care for? Is is possible to love another child as much as I love Naomi? How will this labour/delivery/recovery be? I guess the best way to describe how I am feeling is anxious. Anxious for the birthing process, anxious to meet this new little one, anxious about the adjustment time. Just plain anxious.
With Naomi, I was already in the hospital at this point in the pregnancy getting my labour induced, and I am NOT eager to repeat that process. I feel like I am in "uncharted territory". I have more of the "typical" end of pregnancy symptoms than I did with Naomi, including LOTS of Braxton Hicks contractions. I hope that these are a good sign that I will go into labour on my own and avoid induction. According to the doctors a spontaneous start to labour gives me the best chance to have a VBAC and avoid another C-section. Pray with me that this will be the case, please.
Ron has been the sweetest husband throughout this pregnancy and I know that he is nervous about the transition to a family of four. I think its because we have the memories of Naomi's birth as our only reference point and that experience was anything but typical. I keep trying to remind myself that it likely won't be worse than it was with Naomi and we were able to survive that, so therefore we'll make it through, right? I know everything will work out fine, but I can't help but wonder, how?

White Rock

2009-04-25T10:47:00.003-07:00

Last night we headed out to White Rock for the evening. It was cold and windy, but Naomi was all bundled up and cozy.
We had a wonderful of dinner Fish n' Chips at Docks on Marine. It was the perfect meal to have at the ocean. We shared a 3 piece meal and it was plenty for all of us. Yum!

No walk at White Rock is complete with a trip to to end of the pier. Naomi enjoyed seeing all the seagulls and telling them to "shoot" (shoo). We managed to get a few nice family pictures too. These may be our last pictures as a family of three.

Croup and Cancellations

2009-04-24T12:40:00.006-07:00

Last night we had our first middle of the night trip to the emergency with Naomi! She woke up gasping for air and barking like a seal. Yup, that's right, she has croup. We got to the emergency at 3am and got home around 6am. They gave her medication and hopefully she will is on the mend now. It was SO scary to hear Naomi struggling to breathe and coughing so hard. I was SHOCKED by how fast it came on. She was fine when she went to bed, just a little runny nose, and then had full blown croup 5 hours later. Is this normal?
Ron and I had planned a trip this weekend to the States for a last getaway before baby comes, but I guess our plans have changed. I have to admit that I am a little disappointed because I know now that the next trip for just the two of us will be a LONG time from now. To make up for these changed plans I think we are going to us this weekend to make some memories with just the three of us, starting with a nice walk at White Rock this evening.
__________________________________________________
Thanks so much for all of you who have already put in your guesses for our newest addition. I have had so much fun reading your guesses. For those of you who are still deciding It's not to late if you still want to put your guess in. I will close the guesses on April 30 just to make it fair for everyone. (PS that is also the day your taxes are due, just in case you forgot)

33 weeks and Baby Guesses

2009-03-28T22:48:00.004-07:00

I thought that since Peanut will be here soon, this would be a good time to record your guesses as to the details of this baby's arrival into the world. What is your guess? (Date, Time, Weight, and Gender)
Here is what we know:
Due Date: May 18
Morning sickness: yes
Carrying high or low?: Not really sure, but this is how I carried Naomi.

So, what is your guess? Leave a comment on this post and let me know your guess. I am looking forward to reading them. I might even try to get a little prize for the one who has the most right.

Cardboard Testimonies

2009-03-18T10:38:00.002-07:00

Watching this was a powerful way to start my morning. I was not sure what to expect, but I'm glad I took the time to watch. Did it touch your heart like it did mine? Definitely worth it.

You say Party, We say....

2009-03-17T11:09:00.009-07:00

OK!

Last week was filled with celebrating Naomi's birthday. On Thursday morning we had a party with her little friends. It was so cute to see them all together. We played together for a few hours and had hot dogs for lunch before it was time for everyone to go home and have a nap. This is the best picture we could get of all the kids together. I know that this picture will be a great memory to look back on when the kids get older. I love looking back at the pictures for myself at my friends parties when I was a baby. If you want to see one click here. (That's me in the infant seat)
On Saturday we had a family party. It was great having both sides of the family together, including many of my aunts, uncles, and cousins. Even all of Naomi's great-grandparents where there! We are so lucky to have so much family so close by that can watch Naomi grow up!

The evening included a dinner of burgers, salads, fruits, and veggies. Of course, no birthday party would be complete without Birthday Cake. Our friend Victoria makes wonderful cakes and offered to make one for Naomi's party. It turned out great!
The weekend was an awesome time to celebrate with our family and friends who love our little girl almost as much as we do :) Thanks to everyone who came. It was wonderful to party with you all.

Two

2009-03-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Our Dearest Naomi,

We can still remember the day of your birth so clearly. Although it is hard to believe that you were ever this small.

You have had me and your Daddy wrapped around your finger from the first moment. Each day that you have been with us has been wonderful and a treasure. Your first year of life flew by as we adjusted to being parents for the first time. You have been training us well :) and we are so privileged to be your parents. We could not ask for a better daughter.
Your second year has been an adventure. You have grown up SO much in this last year. You amaze us everyday with your newest words and talents. We are so proud of you Naomi! Our hearts are filled to overflowing as we watch you learn and explore the world around you.

You are a loving and kind girl, with the perfect amount of independence and spunk. We know that you are going to turn out to be a fantastic adult one day. Yet, for now, please stay a little girl for a while longer, you are growing up to fast. We are enjoying this life with you every day.

Happy 2nd Birthday darling.
Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Tearduct Probe - Please pray

2009-03-04T10:23:00.004-08:00

Hello All,
I am asking all my bloggy friend to join me in prayer as Naomi goes into Children's Hospital tomorrow. She has a clogged tear duct that needs to be fixed. Her right eye is often filled with tears that overflow down her cheek, and she is prone to eye infections because it can't drain properly. For most children the clog usually clears up on it's own by the time they are 18 months old. If not, like in Naomi's case, they need to have surgery to open it up.
So, tomorrow morning we are heading into Children's to have the surgery done. It is only a day surgery and we should be home by tomorrow afternoon. We have to arrive at the hospital one and a half hours early to meet with the anesthesiologist and do all the pre-op stuff. The doctor said that the procedure will take about 10 mins, with Naomi being under general anesthesia for around 20 mins. Then she will go into recovery for about another hour or so. Then we can go home.
Please pray with us that everything will go well, including guidance for the doctors hands, peace for us and for Naomi. We trust that God has this situation in His hands and that all will happen according to his will. We are choosing to trust the One who loves Naomi more than we do.

"Barbie"

2009-02-19T11:39:00.006-08:00

Now that the sun is out more often, we can at least pretened that the weather is warm enough to go outside and play. Naomi loves her "Barbie bite" that she got for her birthday last year and has finally gotten the hang of pushing herself around on it.

To end today's post a funny story: Today while we were in the doctor's waiting room a woman walked in with a super short orange dress and white sandals on. She had blonde hair and tanned skin. As soon as Naomi saw her she called out "Barbie, Barbie, Barbie" and pointed at the woman. I tried not to laugh and pretened that I did not hear her. I did not want to draw attention to us, or embarass that woman. Too funny!

My Funny Valentine

2009-02-13T14:55:00.003-08:00

Words can't express how much I love this little girl. She makes me laugh every day! You are the best daughter we could ever ask for, and we love you more than you will ever know! You are growing up so fast! It seems like only a short while ago you were an infant and now those days seem so long gone. My heart is filled with thankfulness to God every day when I see your beautiful face. We are blessed beyond measure and will always remember that you are the most precious gift from God. Happy Second Valentines Day Naomi!

25 weeks with #2

2009-02-09T10:15:00.005-08:00

Here is the belly shot I promised. I feel good, but I think I need to get some new maternity clothes. I'm not much for needing the latest fashion, but wearing the same pair of jeans every day is getting BORING! Why do maternity clothes have to be so expensive?
Baby #2 is still growing strong. We had an ultrasound a few weeks ago and everything looks great. I even got to watch to whole thing on a little screen while the tec was taking the measurements. What a difference from when we went in while I was pregant with Naomi. For the whole crazy story click here. When Ron came in the tec showed us all the major organs and all its limbs, assuring us that everything was looking great. In total we were in the office for less than half an hour. It's amazing what a relief it is to see our little one and to know that s/he is healthy. Baby was pretty calm durring the ultrasound and was trying to suck it's thumb. Maybe this baby will like a soother, unlike Naomi.

Everything about this pregancy is so different than it was with Naomi except for one major thing.... Gestational Diabetes! I took the one hour glucose test and failed which means I get to go back for a three hour test, yay for me! I am sure I will fail that one also, since there is a 70% chance of having it again after having it once already. I can't say that I was really surprise to hear that I have it again. This time I know I can do it and I already know what to expect. The one plus side is that it really forces me to watch what I am eating and therefore makes the whole family eat a lot healthier.
I am tired of calling this baby #2 (I always think of the Ausin Powers movie). He or she needs a good nickname. Naomi was called "Bean" so I think this baby deserves one too. So this is a challenge to all of you out there who read this blog. Help us give a nickname to #2. Leave a comment with your suggestions and I'll pick one!

I'm Back

2009-02-09T09:47:00.011-08:00

I'm Back! I suppose my last post could have been titled Blog Hiatus. Life has just taken over, between the general busyness of life and all of us being sick for the last month blogging has fallen to the back burner. When I did have a minute to sit at the computer I would check all of your blogs, and try to comment, but when I thought of coming up with a post I lost all my motivation!
I hope some of you are still checking in and I have not lost my 3 regular readers:)
I'm glad to report that we seem to all be feeling much better these days. Naomi had a month long cold complete with major coughing, runny nose, sore throat, sleepless nights, and a general miserable feeling. I caught the cold from Naomi and then got the stomach flu on top of it all! It was AWFUL!
Potty Training is still on my mind, but has not made it back into the daily schedule. I plan to start again next Monday, since I am working a few days this week and I don't think its fair to ask my dad to deal with wet pants and worse. Naomi still seem interested in the potty and when she sees her panties she picks them up and says "potty". I hope this try will be more successful than last time. Any one who has any advice on how to make this process easier feel free to leave a comment.

Potty Hiatus

2009-01-19T13:49:00.005-08:00

Since my last post life in our house has changed quite a bit. I had every intention of sticking to the potty training plan, until........ the WORST cold ever hit our house. Ron has been sick for nearly two weeks already, then Naomi got it BAD. The poor girl has been coughing SO much in the past week. I took her to the doctors and they said that they think she has strep throat and the bad flu bug that is going around. So she has been on antibiotics for nearly a week. I hope she will get better soon because it is breakig my heart to see my baby girl in such pain!
Needless to say the potty training is on hold until she is feeling like herself again and the rest of us have beaten this flu bug into submission.

Potty Training Day 1

2009-01-12T13:57:00.005-08:00

I have been thinking about getting Naomi potty trained before our next baby arrives. Now I know that we still have 18 weeks left before D day but I don't want Naomi is "regress" when the next baby comes. Plus, I can't deny that I don't want to change two sets of diapers!
This morning I decided that enough was enough. Naomi seems to be displaying many signs that she is ready.
1) Has words for pee, poo, diaper, and toilet
2) Knows where the potty is and what it is for
3) Can follow instructions
4) Dislikes being dirty
5) Shows interest in what happens in the bathroom
6) Dislikes having her diaper changed
7) Has consistant bowel movements
I sure hope that she is as ready as I think. The last thing I want to do is to push her to much so that she become resistant. I am staying really positive when I talk to her about using the potty and including lots of praise when she sits on the potty even for a few minutes.
This morning was a good start. She had two pee accidents, but she also sat on the potty 4 times. She didn't actually pee, but we read a potty book and practiced wiping and washing our hands.
Does anyone have any suggestion on how to make this process go smoothly?
We'll se how the rest of today and tommorow goes.

The Challenge is Back at the Diaper Diaries.

2009-01-06T08:56:00.003-08:00

Well ladies its back. I found out about this challenge last year and I must admit that it did not go as well as I would have liked, so I am in for another round. Check it out at the Diaper Diaries. You won't be sorry that you did. Sign up and join me. Your husband will be glad you did. Let me know, are you in?

A Backward Glace at 2008

2009-01-01T11:33:00.021-08:00

I suppose New Years day would not be complete without a look back at the year that has past. Here is a brief recap of the last year.

January 08 - We said "goodbye for now" to my Opa. It is hard to believe that it has been an entire year that he has been gone. We still miss him, and I am sure we always will. The family just does not seem complete without him around.

February 08 - Our little girl got to celebrate her first Valentines Day. The love we have for her is hard to put into words.

March 08 - Naomi turns ONE! She was so sick on the day of her party, but she was a trooper. We had a great day celebrating with lots of family and friends.

April 08 - I was working full time in Langley for BDO and Naomi was being cared for by our dear friend Victoria.

May 08 - I am back at home full time with Naomi and loving every momment.

June 08 - Naomi fell and got her first stiches. Right in the middle of her forehead! Thankfully the scar is almost completely gone.

July 08 - We went on our annual Klassen family trip to Penticton at the begining of the month and our annual Penner family trip to Hope at the end of the month. We had a great time enjoying our time together.

August 08 - We celebrated our 5 year anniversary with a wonderful weekend getaway.

September 08 - Naomi is 18 months old, and we find out that our family of three will soon be a family of four. Baby #2 is on the way!

October 08 - Our days are filled with reading books together and playing with toys. Naomi loves to dance and listen to music. For halloween Naomi dressed up as the cutest little ladybug around.

November 08 - I participated in NaBloPoMo this month and I have still not recovered :). My niece Kayla turned one and now the girls are playing together more.

December 08 - Two words : Chirstmas and Snow!

Christmas Wishes

2008-12-24T10:30:00.004-08:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours. We wish you a wonderful time filled with family, food, and fun. More posts to come soon, but for now I am off to sit in front of the fire with a hot cup of tea and my favorite people.

Belly Picture - Week 17

2008-12-18T18:19:00.003-08:00

This picture was taken last week. I am definitely bigger than I was at this time with Naomi, but I keep reminding myself that second babies show faster than first ones. Right? Please tell me that this is true.
I am feeling better these days. The sickness has thankfully subsided, and my appetite is coming back. I heard the baby's heartbeat at my doctors appointment at 16 weeks. What a wonderful sound! It always makes the pregnancy seem more real and is so reassuring to know that everything is well with our newest little one.
We have an ultrasound scheduled for early in the new year so I will put up some pictures of Baby Klassen #2 then.

Here is an update on how baby is doing from the website called
Pregnancy Week by Week
By 17 weeks pregnant your bean may be up to 4.8 inches in length and may weigh more than 3.5 ounces! Most babies are the size of a large apple by pregnancy week 17! During pregnancy week 17 your baby concerns herself with swimming gleefully about her home. As you continue your pregnancy week by week your baby will start converting her cartilage skeleton into bone. This will require ample calcium consumption on mom's part. By pregnancy at 17 weeks most babies can hear outside of the womb. Now is a good time to start reading to your baby or putting on nice, soothing music during the day.
You baby will start putting on a little fat in the upcoming weeks, though your baby will do most of her bulking up during the last few weeks of pregnancy.

She is alive!

2008-12-17T21:43:00.003-08:00

Hello Friends,
Fear not. I am well, however I have not had the urge to blog since my month long project. There is lots to catch up on including a Naomi update, some belly pictures, and pre christmas celebrations. Unfortunalty these will have to wait for tommorow. I am so tired this week because I have worked a few days with my mother-in-love cleaning HUGE homes. Have a great night my friends and enjoy the snow if you live in the Valley.

It's over!!!

2008-11-30T14:11:00.004-08:00

Wow, I can't believe that I made it through NaBloPoMo 2008! I had a great time challenging myself to commit to blogging everyday. I learned a few things about myself and my blog this month.

I learned .....
1) That coming up with something witty and entertaining everyday is harder than it seems.
2) Having a theme for a few days of the week make posting easier.
3) A few cute Naomi pictures are always a hit with readers, but not to judge my post by the number of comments I receive.
4) Blogging is fun and I enjoy it.
5) I would like to get my blog redesigned to reflect my own personality, not just a generic template

Thanks to everyone who checks my blog! I really apppreciate all your comments and encouragement. Thanks for stopping by :)

Are you interested in participating in NaBloPoMo for the month of December. The theme for the month is "thanks". Are you able to think of 31 things that you are thankful for? Google: NaBloPoMo and sign up! Then let me know that you are participating so that I can check out your blog too!

It's begining to look a lot like.......

2008-11-29T14:09:00.006-08:00

Christmas!!
Today we put up all our Christmas decorations. It sure looks different around here with the glow of the lights from the tree and all the other decorations that fill up the rest of the house. It is our tradition to put on the Christmas music and to decorate together as a family. This year Naomi was very eager to "help" with everything that she could get her hands on. I think we are going to have a hard time keeping her away from all the interesting all the things that she is not allowed to touch.

Naomi got a special ornament last year, a little toy duck that says "Baby's First Christmas" on it. It was important to me that she have one. When I was growing up my brother and I each had a special ornament that we received on our first Christmas and we picked the perfect place for it on the tree each year. I am excited to carry on this tradition with Naomi. Here is a picture of her placing it on the tree this year.

Faithlift Friday - His Love Endures Forever

2008-11-28T08:04:00.000-08:00

Take a moment to read this Psalm. My prayer for you is that you will experience this love in a new and powerful way today. Blessings.

Psalm 136
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever.

2 Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.

3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.

4 to him who alone does great wonders,
His love endures forever.

5 who by his understanding made the heavens,
His love endures forever.

6 who spread out the earth upon the waters,
His love endures forever.

7 who made the great lights—
His love endures forever.

8 the sun to govern the day,
His love endures forever.

9 the moon and stars to govern the night;
His love endures forever.

10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt
His love endures forever.

11 and brought Israel out from among them
His love endures forever.

12 with a mighty hand and outstretched arm;
His love endures forever.

13 to him who divided the Red Sea asunder
His love endures forever.

14 and brought Israel through the midst of it,
His love endures forever.

15 but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea;
His love endures forever.

16 to him who led his people through the desert,
His love endures forever.

17 who struck down great kings,
His love endures forever.

18 and killed mighty kings—
His love endures forever.

19 Sihon king of the Amorites
His love endures forever.

20 and Og king of Bashan—
His love endures forever.

21 and gave their land as an inheritance,
His love endures forever.

22 an inheritance to his servant Israel;
His love endures forever.

23 to the One who remembered us in our low estate
His love endures forever.

24 and freed us from our enemies,
His love endures forever.

25 and who gives food to every creature.
His love endures forever.

26 Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His love endures forever.

Night Snack

2008-11-27T21:43:00.002-08:00

What a great night! I am enjoying some homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies and cold milk with Ron. Sometimes it is the simplest things in life that are the best. Good night everyone.

Wordless Wednesday - Family Heirloom

2008-11-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

This blanket was made by Naomi's Great Great Grandma. Ron and his siblings used to play with it and now Naomi can. What a beautiful treasure that can be passed down to the next generation.

A Weekend to Remember

2008-11-25T21:30:00.006-08:00

We had a fantastic time in Whistler. We have only been to Whistler in the summer time, but staying there in the winter was magical. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler was absolutely beautiful. We have never stayed in such a nice hotel.
The Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference was a great refresher for our marriage. It was nice to go and hear that we are already doing a lot of things right. We were able to have some great conversations throughout the weekend that brought us closer together as a couple. I left feeling encouraged and blessed.
I would recommend this marriage retreat to anyone who is married. It is a great time to get away and focus on the most important relationship in your life. If you are interested in going I have a 20% off coupon that you could use. The next retreats around here are in March in either Kelowna or Victoria. Think about going and investing in your marriage. If your marriage is good it could be great and if its struggling I am confident that it can get better. I hope this is not comming across to preachy, I just know that we have been so blessed by this experience and I hope you will be too.

Menu Planning Monday - Nov 24

2008-11-24T15:02:00.003-08:00

This is my last week of NaBloPoMo, and I think it will be my last MMM for a while. I find it tricky to come up with original menu plans for each week. I have a handful of "go-to" recipes that I end of using fairly often and I feel like it would be really boring for you all to read about the same few meal over and over and over again. Unfortunately, I don't have any other ideas for what to post for today so you'll have to suffer through one more MMM.

Monday: Thank goodness my Mother-in-love called and invited us for dinner tonight. Yay, one less meal to come up with this week. Mmmm... I wonder what we are having?

Tuesday: BBQ Steak with Roasted Potatoes. This is my beloved's request and I am happy to oblige.

Wednesday: Slow cooker chicken and Rice.

Thursday: Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes.

Friday: BBQ Chicken and Pasta Salad.

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-11-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mom! Today on your special day I just wanted to let you and everyone else know how much I love you! I hope you have a wonderful day today and a great comming year. Sorry we are not around to celebrate today but I hope your day was good anyway. Love you! You are a great mom and a wonderful Oma to Naomi.

Getaway Weekend

2008-11-22T13:30:00.000-08:00

I'm in Whistler for the weekend with my beloved. Staying at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler for a Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference. I'll tell you all about it on Tuesday.

Faithlift Friday - An Attitude of Gratitude

2008-11-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

This week I have really been challenging myself to have an attitude of gratitude. While I was thinking about what to post this week for Faithlift Friday I remembered this poem that I posted a while ago. As I was re-reading it I was struck again by how much I have to be thankful for.

Thanksgiving Poem (Edited)

Lord, thank you for this sink of dirty dishes; we have plenty of food to eat.

Thank you for this pile of dirty, stinky laundry; we have plenty of nice clothes to wear.

And I would like to thank you, Lord, for those unmade beds; they were so warm and comfortable last night. I know that many have no bed.

My thanks to you, Lord for this bathroom, complete with all the splattered mirrors, soggy, grimy towels and dirty lavatory; they are so convenient.

Thank you for this finger-smudged refrigerator that needs cleaning. It has served us faithfully for many years. It is full of cold drinks and enough leftovers for two or three meals.

Thank you, Lord, for this oven that absolutely must be cleaned today; it has baked so many things over the years.

The whole family is grateful for that tall grass that needs mowing; we all enjoy the yard. Our family is healthy and able to run and play.

Lord, the presence of all these chores awaiting me I say that You have richly blessed my family. I shall do them cheerfully and I shall do them gratefully.

And when I see the dent on the front corner panel of my car, I am thankful for all the dents, creases and crashes you have protected me from.

Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings, thank you, Lord, that I can hear. There are many who are deaf.

Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible, thank you, Lord, that I can see. Many are blind.

Even though I huddle in my bed and put off rising, thank you, Lord, that I have the strength to rise. There are many who are bedridden.

Even though I groan when Naomi is up during the night, thank you, Lord, that I have the opportunity to be a mother. There are many who wish they could be.

And Lord, as I think about the argument we had last night, it’s an honor to be loved by someone who cares enough to challenge me and keep short accounts.

Even though much of my day is hectic, when socks are lost, cookies are burned, and tempers are short, and my daughter so loud, thank you, Lord, for my family. There are many who are lonely.

Even though our house never looks like the magazine pictures and the meals at times not balanced, there are many who are cold and hungry.

Even though the routine of my job is often monotonous, thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work. There are many who have no job.

When I consider the grocery bill, the gas bill, the hydro bill, the cable bill, the phone bill, the medical bill and all the other bills, I thank you that you are my provider…

…and with you, my debt is paid in full!

Amen.

If you could add anything to this poem what would it be? What are you thankful for today?

14 weeks along with Baby # 2

2008-11-20T14:43:00.004-08:00

Here are some quick facts about how are little baby is doing now that I am 14 weeks pregnant. I thought it would be neat to do these updates periodically during this pregnancy, since I have less time these days to think about it. As my pregnancy ticker says only 180 days 'till baby is here. I will have to think of a nickname for this baby so that I can stop calling him or her #2.

Crown to rump, our baby is around 9 centimetres long and weighs one and a half ounces. The body is now growing faster than the head. This week, its parchment-thin skin covers itself with lanugo (ultra-fine, downy hair that usually disappears before birth). Though eyebrows are beginning to grow and the hair on top of the head is sprouting, this hair may change in both texture and colour after birth.

About now, the baby can grasp, squint, frown, and grimace. It may even be able to suck its thumb. Researchers believe these and other movements probably correspond to the development of impulses in the brain.
If you or someone you know is pregnant and you want to know about the baby's development check out this great website.

Wordless Wednesday - Cute Cousins

2008-11-19T00:02:00.001-08:00

Naomi (20 months) and her cousin Kayla (12 months)

Check out another WW picture of the girls from almost one year ago here

Just Because...

2008-11-18T18:10:00.003-08:00

Here are a few pictures from the past few weeks. I know the blog has been lacking in the picture department lately (silly NaBloPoMo). So, for the Oma's and Opa's and all of you who only stop by for the pictures.....

Check back tommorow for Wordless Wednesday...

Menu Planning Monday - Nov 17

2008-11-17T07:37:00.000-08:00

Last week was basically a write off in terms of menu planning. I had great intentions as you can see here. But, I didn't follow through on any of my menu plan for the week (except for the invites, including a dinner invitation on Friday that I forgot about last week). Sheesh! I hope I can do better this week. So here we go.... including some repeats from last week.

Monday: Chicken Pilaf

Tuesday: Pasta Salad and Katletten

Wednesday: Steak and Boy Scout Potatoes

Thursday: BBQ Chicken and Rice a Roni

Friday: Going out to eat with my Hubby!

Have a great week folks! Come on play along!

Movember

2008-11-16T14:02:00.002-08:00

This morning Ron came out of the bathroom looking like this. He told me that it was is support of Movember. I agreed to let him go to church with the moustache on the condition that if anyone asked or commented about it he had to tell them it was in support of encouraging all men to get checked out for prostate cancer.

"This Movember - the month formerly known as November - men across Canada will grow a moustache to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer research. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, and one in seven Canadian males will be diagnosed in their lifetime. In fact, 24,700 will be diagnosed this year and 4,300 will die from prostate cancer this year. Movember was established to bring much needed attention to this serious disease, especially among males aged 25 to 40." Read the rest of the article here.
So ladies if you are reading this remind the men in your life to go see their doctor for a check up soon.

Happy (Belated) Birthday Kayla

2008-11-15T13:46:00.004-08:00

Yesterday was my neice Kalya's 1st birthday. We had a great day celebrating.
I can't believe that it has been a whole year already that you have been here! It does not seem that long ago that you were this small.

Happy Birthday Sunshine Girl! We love you

FaithLift Friday - Psalm 121

2008-11-14T07:43:00.000-08:00

Psalm 121

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

This is my favorite Psalm. It always encourages me each time I read it. I hope that it ministers to you today. Feel free to share you Faithlift for today.

47 Questions and Answers Meme

2008-11-13T11:38:00.001-08:00

I was browsing for blogging material (as usual) and I stopped by A Mother's Walk and I read that she tagged anyone who wanted to play along. So I will consider myself tagged. Stay tuned at the end of this post to see if I tagged you. So without further ado.... 47 things you may or may not already know about me...

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
Yes, I was named after my mom's cousin. By the way, my cousin is named after her as well.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
Last Friday while listening to a friend about her struggles.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
Yup. I never used to like it very much, but now I guess its alright.

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
No doubt Turkey Breast, with a fresh sliced tomato and cheese.... Mmmmmmm

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
Yup. I guess you could say I have 2 : 1 on the outside and one on the inside.

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Yup, I'm awesome. Seriously, how would you answer this question? Of course I want people to be friends with me.

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT?
Yeah, sometimes way to much. I have had people tell me that when they first meet me they don't know how to take me because I am so sarcastic. I guess I should work on that..... I just think that sarcasm can be so funny.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS
Yup... appendix not so much. Sorry, is that to much information?

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
NO. Not ever. Well, maybe for a million dollars, but it would have to be cash in advance.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Cold Cereal : Honey Nut Cheerios.
Hot Cereal: Cream of Wheat with milk and brown sugar.

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
Nope.

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
Not really, the great thing is that I have a strong hubby who does all the heavy lifting around here.

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Hmmmm, only one. I guess that would have to be Black Raspberry Cheesecake.

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
I have never thought of this before. I am going to have to give this some more thought.

15. RED OR PINK?
Red for me, but I can't deny my love for pink when dressing Naomi.

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
My lack of motivation to exercise.

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST.
I miss my mind before I had Naomi. It used to be so sharp, but now I have placenta mind! I can't remember ANYTHING!

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU?
Of course. I would love for your to play along. I can't wait to read your answers.

19. WHAT COLOR SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
None, I'm wearing socks.

20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?
A creamy caramel. They remind me of my Oma. She used to keep them on hand for her grandchildren when they came to visit.

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW ?
The TV in the background, the hum of the dryer, and Naomi talking in her crib.

22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
I think I would have to be Granny Smith Apple. For ideas for what color you would be check out this website

23. FAVORITE SMELLS ?
Fresh buns baking, and laundry right out of the dryer.

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
My Mom

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
Not really. I just started checking her blog about a week ago.

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
Hockey, Football, and Gymnastics

27. Hair Color?
Dark brown

28. EYE COLOR?
Green

29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
Yup, everyday!

30. FAVORITE FOOD ?
Mashed Potatoes with homemade gravy

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
Happy Endings

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED ?
Goodness, I can't remember the last movie I watched from begining to end.

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
White T-shirt with a Lilac sweater over top.

34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Winter. Hot coffee and a good book in front of the fireplace is pretty hard to beat in my books

35. HUGS OR KISSES?
I guess it depends on who they are from :) Overall, Hugs for sure.

36. FAVORITE DESSERT ?
Chocolate Blattertorte.

37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
Heidi Ens, but I hope everyone will play along.

38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND.
I don't know.

39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW ?
I'm rereading Diana Gabaldon's Outlander for the 4th time. I love to reread books.

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
Don't have on. I am working on my laptop.

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
Canucks Hockey Game.

42. FAVORITE SOUND.
Naomi talking and singing.

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Beatles.

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME???
Honduras

45. DO U HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
I can sing, but I know that there are many, many, better singers than me.

46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Matsqui

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK?
Anyone who plays along.

I tag:
Heidi from Heidi's Beautiful Family
Esther from Schultz News
Debbie from Flowers in the Window
Alanna from The Latham Family

so if you are reading this and haven’t done it already, consider yourself TAGGED!

Wordless Wednesday - One Year Ago

2008-11-12T00:01:00.004-08:00

A Window Into Our Conversation - Why

2008-11-11T13:47:00.004-08:00

I have seen this on Debbie and Esther's blogs. Today presented the perfect opportunity to share a funny conversation.
We had just gotton home from running some errands in town this morning and were getting out of the car. Had you been a fly on the wall this is what you would have heard:
Me: "Ron, can you pop the trunk please?"
Ron: "Why?"
Me: "Because I put the diaper bag in the back with the stroller."
Ron: "Why?"
Me: "Because I did"
Ron: "Why" Then he opened the trunk and opened the door to get Naomi out of her car seat.

Ron: "OK Naomi, lets go"
Naomi: "Why?"
Ron: "We are going inside to have lunch."
Naomi" "Why?"
Ron: "Because we have to..."
Naomi: "Why?"
Ron looked at me and smiled as I laughed all the way to the front door.

Menu Plan Monday - Nov 10

2008-11-10T06:39:00.001-08:00

Last week went quite well. I made a few changes but overall I stuck to the plan. What a great relief to not worry about coming up with an idea for dinner every night. This week is not going to be anything fancy. How about you, are you going to play along this week? Come on, it will be fun! Link up here.

Monday - I am going out all morning, therefore I need something easy for dinner tonight. Hubby came home with hot dogs and buns last night. Sounds good to me. BBQ hot dogs and fruit salad, or for all you foodie types: Grilled bratwurst with crusty rolls and a beautiful medley of fall fruit with a simple sauce. Somehow presenting it that was seems to give it a bit of an elegant flair. I like it!

Tuesday - BBQ Chicken and Rice-a-Roni with steamed veggies. This is my hubby's request for a dinner this week. I am glad to send him out to man the BBQ for the meat portion of the meal. Fewer worries for me! The rice could not be easier to make, so I will have lots of time to play with Naomi while it is cooking.

Wednesday - It's our lucky day. We are invited to my parents house for dinner. I don't know what we are having, but I know we will enjoy every bite. I bet you're a little jealous. Two weeks in a row with an invite for dinner. I could get used to this.

Thursday - Steak and Boy Scout Potatoes. Again, this is cooked entirely on the BBQ! This is shaping up to be an easy week for me! For those of you who don't know Boy Scout Potatoes are: chopped up potatoes, onions, and canned corn all wrapped in tin foil with a bit of seasoning and olive oil. Then baked on the BBQ while the steaks bake. Yum! I think I might do my part in the kitchen and warm up a store bought garlic bread. Yeah, I know, I have it rough!

Friday - Shredded slow cooker chicken and pasta. This tasty and simple dinner is the perfect finish for this week. I'll put the chicken in the slow cooker around lunch and it will be perfect by the time dinner rolls around. The chicken has a delicious sauce and is a perfect accompaniment to pasta.

I hope your week is as delicious as mine. Don't forget to leave and comment and play along if you want. Have a great week!

Uninspired

2008-11-09T14:30:00.002-08:00

Well it took me until today to run out of things to say. I could just post a cute picture of Naomi, but Ron has the laptop out with him today. I could post something witty or intelligent, but I got nothin'. So this lame post will have to do. Check back tomorrow for Menu Planning Monday.
Sheesh, if I keep up with these lame posts my two regular readers will stop checking and any hope of new readers will be banished. Must find inspiration soon....... 1 week down 3 weeks to go in NaBloPoMo.

Embarassing Story (as promised)

2008-11-08T09:25:00.002-08:00

This pregnancy has been very different so far. I suppose that should be self explanatory since it is not the same baby, but I was not prepared for the early pregnancy symptoms that have come along this time. I don't have the traditional morning sickness, but rather I have been feeling really nauseated from 4-7 every evening. This really sucks cause I have NO desire to be anywhere near food, and that means that Ron ends up having to cook more often. Although I feel really sick I had not thrown up unitl.....
A few weekends ago I went away to the states for the weekend with my girlfriends. We shopped and shopped all day on Saturday and only stopped for a quick lunch. Around dinner time we talked about having a snack but we just didn't. We had planned to go eat at the Cheesecake Factory for a late dinner, so we headed into downtown Seatle around 9:00pm.
Once we got there the host told us there was a wait of approx. 30 minutes so we waited...and waited.... and waited. One and a half hours later we finally got a seat. All of us were so exhaused and hungry by this time we were all off in our own little worlds. I was not feeling well by this time and I knew that I needed to get something in my stomach. I ordered a rasberry lemondade and downed it as soon as it came. This proved to be a mistake! After we ordered I was still feeling badly so I left to use the restroom. When I got back our food had arrived. I took one bite of the chicken tortilla that I had ordered and promptly puked into my cloth napkin. I looked up and told my friends, "I am going to need your napkin". I proceeded to puke 3 more times into the napkins and then I felt a lot better.
The only pluse side to this story is that I managed to avoid getting any on myself or making any unappetizing sounds. My friends were very impressed at my ability to be discrete thought the whole process.
I hope that we can go back to the Cheesecake Factory soon and create better memories.
Do you have any embarassing stories that you would like to share? I would love to hear them

Faithlift Friday

2008-11-07T06:07:00.001-08:00

"He tends his flock like a shepherd:
He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart;
he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:11

This verse has been coming to mind a lot during this past week. It was read during last Sunday mornings service and it has ministered to me ever since. As a mother the imagery in this verse is especially meaningful. I love the image of Jesus carrying me in His arms and holding me close to his heart, just as I hold Naomi close to mine. The last line is a powerful reminder of the special care that Jesus has for young mothers. I am so blessed to be reminded that He takes a gentle approach to those who are caring for young children. He knows how draining and demanding parenting can be. I often loose sight of God's care for me while I am focusing on caring for those around me. It is a good reminder to slow down and allow God to carry me in his arms, to lead me gently, and accept the extra grace given to me because I am a mother.
This has been and encouragement to me, and I hope it is for you as well.

Toliet Trauma

2008-11-06T06:00:00.001-08:00

I found this while browsing through the blogrolls of some of the blogs that read regularly. It was originaly posted on MySpace but you can find it at A Mother's Walk. It made me smile, I hope it makes you smile too.

ISN’T THIS THE TRUTH ??????

When you have to visit a public bathroom, you usually find a line of women, so you smile politely and take your place. Once it’s your turn, you check for feet under the stall doors. Every stall is occupied.

Finally, a door opens and you dash in, nearly knocking down the woman leaving the stall. You get in to find the door won’t latch. It doesn’t matter, the wait has been so long you are about to wet your pants! The dispenser for the modern “seat covers” (invented by someone’s Mom, no doubt) is handy, but empty. You would hang your purse on the door hook, if there was one, but there isn’t - so you carefully, but quickly drape it around your neck, (Mom would turn over in her grave if you put it on the FLOOR! ), yank down your pants, and assume ” The Stance.”

In this position your aging, toneless thigh muscles begin to shake. You’d love to sit down, but you certainly hadn’t taken time to wipe the seat or lay toilet paper on it, so you hold “The Stance.”

To take your mind off your trembling thighs, you reach for what you discover to be the empty toilet paper dispenser. In your mind, you can hear your mother’ s voice saying, “Honey, if you had tried to clean the seat, you would have KNOWN there was no toilet paper!” Your thighs shake more.

You remember the tiny tissue that you blew your nose on yesterday - the one that’s still in your purse. (Oh yeah, the purse around your neck, that now, you have to hold up trying not to strangle yourself at the same time). That would have to do. You crumple it in the puffiest way possible. It’s still smaller than your thumbnail

Someone pushes your door open because the latch doesn’t work. The door hits your purse, which is hanging around your neck in front of your chest, and you and your purse topple backward against the tank of the toilet. “Occupied!” you scream, as you reach for the door, dropping your precious, tiny, crumpled tissue in a puddle on the floor, lose your footing altogether, and slide down directly onto the TOILET SEAT. It is wet of course. You bolt up, knowing all too well that it’s too late. Your bare bottom has made contact with every imaginable germ and life form on the uncovered seat because YOU never laid down toilet paper - not that there was any, even if you had taken time to try. You know that your mother would be utterly appalled if she knew, because, you’re certain her bare bottom never touched a public toilet seat because, frankly, dear, “You just don’t KNOW what kind of diseases you could get.”

By this time, the automatic sensor on the back of the toilet is so confused that it flushes, propelling a stream of water like a fire hose against the inside of the bowl that sprays a fine mist of water that covers your butt and runs down your legs and into your shoes. The flush somehow sucks everything down with such force that you grab onto the empty toilet paper dispenser for fear of being dragged in too.
At this point, you give up. You’re soaked by the spewing water and the wet toilet seat. You’re exhausted. You try to wipe with a gum wrapper you found in your pocket and then slink out inconspicuously to the sinks.

You can’t figure out how to operate the faucets with the automatic sensors, so you wipe your hands with spit and a dry paper towel and walk past the line of women still waiting.

You are no longer able to smile politely to them. A kind soul at the very end of the line points out a piece of toilet paper trailing from your shoe. (Where was that when you NEEDED it??) You yank the paper from your shoe, plunk it in the woman’s hand and tell her warmly, “Here, you just might need this.”

As you exit, you spot your hubby, who has long since entered, used, and left the men’s restroom. Annoyed, he asks, “What took you so long, and why is your purse hanging around your neck?”

This is dedicated to women everywhere who deal with a public restrooms (rest??? you’ve GOT to be kidding!!). It finally explains to the men what really does take us so long. It also answers their other commonly asked questions about why women go to the restroom in pairs. It’s so the other gal can hold the door, hang onto your purse and hand you Kleenex under the door!

This HAD to be written by a woman! No one else could describe it so accurately!

Wordless Wednesday - Vacuum

2008-11-05T00:01:00.000-08:00

Out of the mouths of babes.....

2008-11-04T21:09:00.003-08:00

This evening while watching the result of the presidential election on CNN, we asked Naomi if she could say Obama.

Ron: "Naomi, can you say Obama?"
Naomi: "Oh Boy Mamma"
We laughed so hard.

Congratulations to our neighbours to the south and to the president incumbent Barrack Obama.

Too Much Already?

2008-11-03T22:00:00.000-08:00

NaBloPoMo has barely started and already my Dear Husband is already teasing me about the computer being an extension of my body. He went as far as to suggest that I find a laptop clip (like a cell phone clip) and attach the computer to my body so that I could have it with me wherever I go! Hmmmm.... Will I make it through the month if he is already feeling neglected? Therefore, this post will be short. Time to spend some quality time with my family. See you tomorrow.
PS If I find a laptop clip I might just have to use it :)

Menu Planning Monday

2008-11-03T00:01:00.001-08:00

I'm an Organizing Junkie hosts this meme every week at her blog, so I joined in. If you want to get in on the fun check out the guidelines here
As promised here is my first installment of Menu Planning Monday! This is my attempt to answer the age old question that comes into every wife's head around 4:30pm: What should I make for dinner? Here's my plan for the week.

Monday: Luckily we are invited to Ron's Oma and Opas's house for dinner tonight. Yum! Dinner always seems to taste better when it is made by someone else. I'm not sure what is on the menu, but it is bound to be delicious.

Tuesday: BBQ Farmer Sausage and Rice with Tomato salad. This simple and quick dinner is always a hit at our house. I can't go wrong when I make some delicious Remple's Farmer Sausage.

Wednesday: I am heading out for dinner to celebrate my good friend Michelle's birthday. Ron and Naomi will probably enjoy some tasty Sloppy Joes or some good old fashioned meatloaf with mashed potatoes.

Thursday: Chicken and Rice Pilaf with steamed veggies. By this time in the week it is defiantly time to add some chicken to the dinner routine. This dinner is Naomi's favorite. She loves nearly any dish that combined rice and chicken,

Friday: Katletten with Pasta Salad and raw veggies with dip. Kattletlen are small homemade meatballs that are deep fried in oil on the stove top. They are delicious but certainly should not be eaten too often. The pasta salad is simple with eggs and cut up pickles. I'm looking forward to it!

Saturday and Sunday: I find that over planning my menu for the week gets to be a little overwhelming. I usually leave the weekends open for a spontaneous get together or going out to eat.

So there you have it my plan for the week. I think that it will be good. What are you going to make for dinner this week?

Ideas for the month

2008-11-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking today about how I am going to fill 30 posts full of content. The easiest way will be to follow "meme" themes for at least a few days of the week. I already participate in Wordless Wednesday, but I think I will add a few more. I have decided that a theme for 3 days of the week would work well. So here is what you have to look forward to.
Menu Planning Monday - I'll tell you what I plan to make for dinner for the rest of the week. Sometimes reading these lists on anther blog has inspired me to shake up my dinner routine.
Wordless Wednesday - I'll continue this one. Just a picture that needs little or no explanations. This means I will have to have my camera out more often to capture those priceless momments.
Faith lift Friday - I'll share a Scripture or a thought about my faith every Friday.
I hope you will enjoy these and you may even want to play along if you have a blog. Leave a comment and let me know if you want to join me in these themed days and I might even add a Mr. Linky to the end of my posts.

NaBloPoMo

2008-11-01T06:00:00.001-07:00

Well, I have decided to pick up the pace of this blog by challenging myself to join in NaBloPoMo for the month of November. NaBloPoMo is just an abbreviation of National Blog Posting Month. All the particiapants sign up and commit to bloging at least once every day for the month of November. That's right folks 30 posts in the next 30 days. Buckle your seat belts! I am looking forward to it. I hope that I have enough creativity in my to last for 30 days. See you tomorrow!

Our little Ladybug

2008-10-31T23:22:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - Attitude

2008-10-28T21:42:00.002-07:00

Oooo, I can't wait until she is 13 and giving me this look every day :)

Announcement

2008-10-26T18:34:00.006-07:00

The details:
We are due May 22, 2009, that puts me at just over 10 weeks along. This time around I am feeling quite ill, but I've only thrown up once (the story is rather embarrassing so I might save it for another post). My appetite is low and I seem to feel the sickest around dinner time.
Yes, we planned this pregnancy, and we are SO excited.

Wordless Wednesday - Nose

2008-09-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

"hOOMMe"

2008-09-15T22:47:00.003-07:00

Home is Naomi's newest word. As soon as I put the car in park I hear a little voice from behind me say "hOOMMe". I love that she knows when she is home, and when she is out that she want to go there. I am glad that she likes to be a home and it reminds he of my important responsibility of creating a home for her and not just "keeping house".

This week Naomi has been saying "hOOMMe" and "Dadda" together a lot. Ron has been gone for the last 5 days. He went to Barrie, Ontario to be at his uncles wedding and to visit his brother Brian and sister-in-law Hilary. Naomi has missed his SO much, sometimes I think she misses him almost as much as me. All week she asked me about where her Dadda was and if he would be there when she got home.

Althoght the week seemed long we made it! Ron is comming home tonight! This is the longest time we have ever been away from each other. I sure missed him a lot and I can't wait for him to get home. This week has reminded me again of how lucky I am to have such a wonderful husband. I have a renewed appreciation for all he does to help me each day. I'll post some pictures of his adventure soon, but for the next few days I will just enjoy having my family back together under one roof again.

18 Months Old

2008-09-12T06:00:00.001-07:00

It's time for another update on Naomi. Today is her 18 month birthday. She has been the most amazing baby we could ever have asked for. God knew exactly what He was doing when He blessed our lives with this amazing little girl. Our beautiful Naomi Grace.

When I look at her now, it is undeniable that my baby is slipping away and a feisty little toddler is blossoming in her place.

We are SO proud of her!

Here vocabulary is growing every day. She seems to learn new words and signs all the time. So far she can say: Mama, Dada, Doggy, Hi, Yup, No, home, UhOh, Delicious, Yum, Up, all done, Oma, Opa, Ivory (my parents dog), cheese (when smiling for the camera), and juice.
Her repertoire of signs has expanded too. She can sign please, more, milk, bird, bath, all done, blowing kisses, and waving.
Last time we weighed her she was 30 pounds but she may be more by now. She is wearing size 2 clothes, but most of her pants are still to long.

My precious little girl. I love you more than you will ever know. I am so proud to be your Mama. Every time I look at you my heart fills with pride and joy. I love watching you discover the world around you, as you challenge yourself to learn new skills. I am learning to let you try new things, even though I am nervous that you will fall and get hurt. I always want to be there to catch you, but I know that you have to learn some things on your own. Naomi, I wish that I could be there to prevent every "owie", but I know it's impossible. I am learning to trust God to keep you safe, and He has been faithful.
My prayer for you my girl is that you will continue to grow and experience the world, and that you would embrace your God given uniqueness. I love you and will always be your biggest fan. Go and conquor the world darling, I will always be behind you cheering you on.

Wordless Wednesday - Smile

2008-09-09T22:09:00.003-07:00

Family Picture time

2008-09-08T14:03:00.005-07:00

We were privileged to be the subjects for a photo shoot by RT Bjordal Photography. She is just beginning to develop a part-time photography business and asked us if we would be willing to be part of her portfolio. So, a few weeks ago we headed out to Elwood Park. Our original plan was thwarted by some weed smoking, so we wandered around the park and here are the results.
I really like the family shots, and the one where Naomi is showing us her belly button.

What do you think? Which one is your favorite?

Camping with Friends

2008-08-30T13:52:00.008-07:00

A few weekends ago we packed up the car and headed out to Hope Valley Campground for our last trip of the summer. We spent the weekend with our good friends and their families. There were 6 adult and 6 children age 3 and under. Needless to say we have a busy and fantastic time!

At the playground there is a HUGE slide. Naomi kept wanting to climb up the ladder, but I was so nervous that she would slip and fall down. I tried to distract her with the other playground options but she kept running straight to the big slide. Finally Ron took her down the side. I was SO nervous as they were climbing up, but as you can see everything was fine. I guess I will never stop being the over protective and paranoid Mom.

On Sunday morning we packed up and headed home. Naomi was so tuckered from all the excitement that she didn't even stay awake until we were on the freeway, and she slept all the way home.

Salsa

2008-08-30T13:13:00.005-07:00

For the past several years my mom and I have made salsa together during the summer. This year Naomi decided to "help". The house was filled with a fantastic aroma of onions, peppers, tomatoes, and spices.

Opa came by to play with Naomi while we were working. Her favorite part of the day was a "horsey ride" with Opa. She didn't want to get off. Poor Opa, his arms and knees were starting to get sore, (but don't feel to sorry for him, I know he loved every minute with his special girl).

It was a long day filled with a lot of work, but I know it will be worth it when I can go the pantry on a cold winters day and crack open a spicy jar of salsa to enjoy with some corn chips.

Annviersary Getaway

2008-08-14T22:17:00.008-07:00

We had a FANTASTIC weekend away celebrating our 5 year anniversary. I took so many pictures I had to put them into a collage in order to show you without using up all my picture allowance on this blog.

On Friday night we headed out to Coal Harbour for a dinner cruise. It was beautiful to see Vancouver from the water. I would highly recommend this as a romantic evening to celebrate a special occasion. The views were incredible as we cruised past Stanley Park, Vanier Park, and Grandville Island. We even saw the future athletes village for the 2010 Olympics as we arrived at False Creek. Then the ship turned around and we sailed back the way we had come. The return trip was also beautiful, with a sunset into the mountains and then all the lights of the city. We enjoyed it so much we might go again soon.
The weekend just kept getting better. Saturday morning we drove down to the Seattle Premium Outlets and did some shopping. Ron spoiled me and I got a bunch of new summer clothes and a new pair of running shoes. Then we settled into our hotel and went out for dinner at the Outback Steakhouse. Yummy! Although we had a great dinner we still had some room for dessert, so we stopped at Coldstone Creamery. This truly is the ultimate ice cream experience. Think of it like Subway, but with ice cream. You pick your flavor and your mix ins. We shared a berry cheesecake! It was so delicious!
On Sunday we drove down to Seattle for a Mariners game. It was so fun to be at the stadium and experience a ball game first hand, even thought Seattle got smoked 11-1 by Tampa Bay. We had seats in the center field bleachers, but found great seats along the first base line on the lower deck. Since this was our first ball game we decided to go all out for the "baseball experience". We shared a foot long hot dog and even got some crackerjacks.

Unfortunately all good things have to come to an end and we reluctanly had to head back home. Our reluctantce didn't last long since we were coming home to this precious girl who stayed at her Oma and Opas for the weekend.

Aug 9th 2003

2008-08-09T13:29:00.007-07:00

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you, bless and do not curse. Rejoice with hose who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another.
Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:9-18 (our wedding passage)

10 Reasons why I STILL want to be married.

2008-08-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

As we were preparing for our wedding 5 years ago, our pastor asked us to write out 10 reasons why we wanted to be married. I came across this list the other day and as I read it I realized that each and every reason is still why I love being married to Ron.

1) I know that God has put him into my life for a very special reason.

2) He is my best friend. He has been my comfort, joy, support, and my loving friend.

3) He is very good looking. I love the color of his eyes, the warmth of his smile, and the safety that I feel while I am in his arms.

4) He treats me like a Princess. He is very concerned about my feelings, needs, and wants. He takes such good care of me.

5) He loves Jesus. He encourages me to seek after God. He is a committed Christian man.

6) He makes me laugh. He laughs at my silliness and is silly sometimes too. He can take a good joke.

7) He is a hard worker. He will always work hard to get a job done, or to support us.

8) He is always real and honest with me. He cannot and will not lie to me or keep secrets from me.

9) He always encourages me. He helps me see things about myself that are good. He reminds me of my beauty especially when I lose sight of it.

10) I LOVE HIM! When words, actions, and touch can no longer explain it comes down to the fact that he has touched my very soul. He has made and impression on my heart that will never go away. I am forever changed because I love him, and because he loves me. I cannot imagine life without him.

Flashback Friday -Aug 07

2008-08-01T11:51:00.002-07:00

Naomi one year ago. Time is flying by.

Have a fantastic long weekend everyone. I'll be back on Monday and tell you all about our camping trip with my parents and brother. Should be fun!

Wordless Wednesday - Bubbles

2008-07-29T23:32:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - Shoebox Fun

2008-07-22T22:41:00.002-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - Slide

2008-07-15T21:41:00.001-07:00

Say Cheese!

2008-07-14T21:35:00.003-07:00

I am so spoiled! For my birthday my parents, in-laws, and wonderful husband bought me a new camera. Oooo, I LOVE it! I have been wishing for a new camera for quite awhile, but since our camera was still working well there was no need to get a new one. I really enjoy taking pictures and wanted a camera that had a few more features than just the basic point and click kind.
Imagine how excited I was when I opened my present and THIS was inside! I find it really easy to use and it takes great pictures. I am still getting used to all the additional options and settings. I have been snaping pictures like crazy!
Here are some of the great pictures that I took last night at my party. Enjoy!

Dinner at the Old Spagetti Factory and the rest of the evening at Mill Lake Park playing Jarts and Auzzie Football. I love birthdays!

Beach Time at Harrison

2008-07-12T22:13:00.005-07:00

This evening we made a spur of the moment decision to drive to Harrison. It was so beautiful there, warm sun and a nice breeze blowing. It happened to be the Harrison Art festival this weekend too. So there were booths selling everything you can imagine, and live music filled the air. What a glorious evening!
We set up the camera on the stroller and turned on the timer. I think it turned out really well.
I love how this picture turned out. The sun looks so beautiful on the water and Naomi loved feeling the sand between her toes.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone. I know I will as I celebrate my 26th birthday tommorow.