My Darling Son,
Tomorrow is your due date! How I've longed for this day. I just can't wait to see your cute little face and hold your little hands in mine. Your daddy is just as excited, and your big brother is anxious to rock you in your cradle. He's been practicing with his Lego people.
I know that tomorrow is the day you're officially "fully baked" and allowed to come out, but in the grand scheme of 9 months, one day won't matter that much.
Little Bity, if you wait until tomorrow (or later) to come, it doesn't just affect you and me any more. Grandpa has to leave town tomorrow, and he won't be back for another week. If you don't come today, you won't get to meet him until you're a week old. I know what you're thinking - - you could just swim around in there for another week. Well, if you do that, we'll miss Goodberry Christmas. Yep, it's a week from tomorrow. Even coming now puts us in a tight spot to get used to being out of the house before December 15.
Not convinced?
Daddy is on call through Thursday, unless you come.
Mommy is getting more and more uncomfortable each day.
You'll have more room to stretch out here!!
I have candy!
I know your brother waited 6 days after his due date to come - - perhaps you're feeling like it's unfair I'm putting so much pressure on you. Well, my sweetie, fair isn't always equal. Love Bug came in his own time, and he came in time to meet everyone before they moved to North Carolina. You can come in your own time, too, but I'm asking that you come today!
Yes, it's cold out here - - but I will keep you warm.
Yes, it's loud - - but we will all speak soft.
Yes, it's scary - - but it will be a lot less scary when we're all together.
Yes, there are tears - - but there are also tears of joy.
You have already brought us so much joy, Little Bity. I can't imagine loving you more than I do at this moment, and yet I know that my love for you will continue to overflow with each day of your life. I just can't wait any more!
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Boogers and Spray Paint
It all started this morning, when I looked down and realized that I still can't see my feet. Yup, those three hours of painful contractions and pushing had only been a dream. So with a couple of heaves I literally rolled myself out of bed and went downstairs to say goodbye to my husband. He asked what I had planned for the day. Well, nothing. Maybe going into labor, so I can't really plan anything! So he gives me a few ideas (errands, really) and heads out to work, phone on its loudest setting just in case.
By 9:15 I had:
- Showered
- Eaten breakfast, and fed the Love Bug
- Called the pediatrician
- Dressed the toddler
- Got out the door
Success!! Already a productive day, in my book.
We went to the OBGYN to turn in my pre-registration paperwork for the hospital, and fill out my birth plan. At the office I felt like supermom - - I was very patient, let Love Bug push all the buttons for the elevator and opening handicap doors. I had even thought to bring along the Kindle so he could play while I did paperwork in the waiting room. As I loaded my son back into the car, though, I noticed a streak of boogers across my coat that had obviously been there for a while.
Like any supermom, I went searching for the wipes that I keep in the car for just this reason. The diaper bag was nowhere to be found. Concluding that my prego brain must have put it in the freezer, I decided there was nothing left to do but continue my errands, snot and all. So I proceeded to go to the bank (luckily I just had to use the ATM - - no people), gas station, Home Deopt, and Michaels.
Now, my son loves to shop. One of the reasons he loves shopping is because he gets to greet everyone we come in contact with. So as I'm pushing the cart around hoping nobody notices my son's runny nose that has made its way all over me, he's doing his best to make everyone in the store look at him. "Hi! Hi! Hi," he says, until each person looks at him. Adorable.
Boogers aside, I was able to get the things I need to make shelves for our new little Peanut's room!! Now I just have to figure out where I can use spray paint...
"Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14
By 9:15 I had:
- Showered
- Eaten breakfast, and fed the Love Bug
- Called the pediatrician
- Dressed the toddler
- Got out the door
Success!! Already a productive day, in my book.
We went to the OBGYN to turn in my pre-registration paperwork for the hospital, and fill out my birth plan. At the office I felt like supermom - - I was very patient, let Love Bug push all the buttons for the elevator and opening handicap doors. I had even thought to bring along the Kindle so he could play while I did paperwork in the waiting room. As I loaded my son back into the car, though, I noticed a streak of boogers across my coat that had obviously been there for a while.
Like any supermom, I went searching for the wipes that I keep in the car for just this reason. The diaper bag was nowhere to be found. Concluding that my prego brain must have put it in the freezer, I decided there was nothing left to do but continue my errands, snot and all. So I proceeded to go to the bank (luckily I just had to use the ATM - - no people), gas station, Home Deopt, and Michaels.
Now, my son loves to shop. One of the reasons he loves shopping is because he gets to greet everyone we come in contact with. So as I'm pushing the cart around hoping nobody notices my son's runny nose that has made its way all over me, he's doing his best to make everyone in the store look at him. "Hi! Hi! Hi," he says, until each person looks at him. Adorable.
Boogers aside, I was able to get the things I need to make shelves for our new little Peanut's room!! Now I just have to figure out where I can use spray paint...
"Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14
Monday, November 11, 2013
Crazy Prego Dreams
Last night I had a dream that I was in labor - - labor pains and all. I don't know where I was when I delivered, but I do remember them handing me the "baby" - - a 10-year-old African American girl, fully dressed with the cutest hairdo. They told me she was 10 lbs, 11 oz... which was what my husband weighed when he was born (or close to it, anyways).
Then I was home with my son (and apparently hadn't had the baby yet?) and my sister was over playing with him. I tried to put up the baby gate, but couldn't because the wall was caving in from the snow outside. So I had to push the wall back up, but then realized that the door had come out of its frame from the snow. On top of that, the garage that we don't have was having a problem with the roof! I called maintenance (the perks of NOT being homeowners yet) and they said they supposed they would send someone. I had to put the cat that we don't have anymore in the basement that doesn't exist, and then my mom came.
When I was prego with my first miracle, I had a dream that when I had the baby it was a girl (when I knew I was having a boy) with the face of a 40-year-old woman and long black hair... very creepy!
So this morning when I woke up I had to convince myself of a few simple realities: I hadn't had the baby, I wasn't actually having labor pains last night, it didn't snow, the house is standing the way it should, and I don't have to worry about getting the garage door to close before I leave this morning!
Only 3 weeks and 6 days left (or more... or LESS!) of this crazy prego lifestyle! :)
Then I was home with my son (and apparently hadn't had the baby yet?) and my sister was over playing with him. I tried to put up the baby gate, but couldn't because the wall was caving in from the snow outside. So I had to push the wall back up, but then realized that the door had come out of its frame from the snow. On top of that, the garage that we don't have was having a problem with the roof! I called maintenance (the perks of NOT being homeowners yet) and they said they supposed they would send someone. I had to put the cat that we don't have anymore in the basement that doesn't exist, and then my mom came.
When I was prego with my first miracle, I had a dream that when I had the baby it was a girl (when I knew I was having a boy) with the face of a 40-year-old woman and long black hair... very creepy!
So this morning when I woke up I had to convince myself of a few simple realities: I hadn't had the baby, I wasn't actually having labor pains last night, it didn't snow, the house is standing the way it should, and I don't have to worry about getting the garage door to close before I leave this morning!
Only 3 weeks and 6 days left (or more... or LESS!) of this crazy prego lifestyle! :)
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
The Cookie Conundrum
I thought that once I was an adult I would be able to eat whatever I want, whenever I want. With a toddler in the house, I sometimes feel like I'm the little kid "sneaking cookies" and my toddler is the parent... because he can't have a cookie at 9:30 in the morning.
This morning I sit here with my toddler yelling "NO! No, no, no, no!" and hitting my chair because I told him he couldn't have a cookie until lunch time.
I ignore this behavior that is clearly for the purpose of getting my attention.
And I wish he would leave the room so I can eat a cookie.
He leaves. I grab one.
He comes back. Cookie in my pocket.
Out again. Stuffing my face... until he catches me.
Deer in headlights. Did he see it?
Waiting...
No.
Gone again. Chocolate peanut butter goodness.
The cookie's gone. My toddler isn't. More cookies tempting me on the table... it's all going to start again, isn't it?
Happy Wednesday, everyone!
This morning I sit here with my toddler yelling "NO! No, no, no, no!" and hitting my chair because I told him he couldn't have a cookie until lunch time.
I ignore this behavior that is clearly for the purpose of getting my attention.
And I wish he would leave the room so I can eat a cookie.
He leaves. I grab one.
He comes back. Cookie in my pocket.
Out again. Stuffing my face... until he catches me.
Deer in headlights. Did he see it?
Waiting...
No.
Gone again. Chocolate peanut butter goodness.
The cookie's gone. My toddler isn't. More cookies tempting me on the table... it's all going to start again, isn't it?
Happy Wednesday, everyone!
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Baking with a Toddler
Oh, my! Baking with my toddler has proved to be the most patience-trying and rewarding thing we have done together in a long time! If you haven't tried it, I highly suggest you do. Just make sure you set up the atmosphere so that you will have as much patience as a cat waiting for her prey. The Love Bug and I had so much fun! We've baked an ice cream cake, a coffee cake, and cookies together so far!
The cookies, I have to say, were the biggest challenge for me. We (yes, WE - - as in my toddler and I) had just swept the whole house, and then we decided to bake cookies from scratch... lots of patience when he flung flour and cocoa all over himself and the kitchen! He had so much fun, though, and it was fun to watch his face as he realized that we were making cookies that he could then eat!
Lazy Days
Lazy Days - - that's all I've had recently. I am so tired all the time that all I have the energy to do is throw a load of laundry in the washer, feed the Love Bug, and then sit down to rest.
A big part of it is the pregnancy - - and the fact that I don't like being pregnant doesn't help. But another big part of it is that I have simply allowed myself to get lazy.
I have my good days each week, don't get me wrong. I still have the ability to make hubby come home and say, "Wow, babe, you went to town today!" when he looks around the house. Those are the good days. There are also the days when I get out of the house and get to the playground, run errands, or go out to visit someone. Those are good days, too. But today, like most days, I have no plans. I cleaned yesterday so there's really nothing to do in that area (that I want to do or feel like I still can with my big cow of a belly), and I have nowhere to be. So the "plan" today will be to rest.
I'm so sick of resting!! But I'm not willing to give it up - - it's just an inner struggle. I'm ready for this baby to be here. I'm tired of waiting, tired of being tired (though I know that with a newborn tiredness is going to be a regular feeling in our household for a while).
So I'll rest. I'll beat the last few levels on Roller Coaster Tycoon and I'll catch up on all my shows. And in the midst of this rest, I'll find something fun to do with my toddler that doesn't tire me out too much.
A big part of it is the pregnancy - - and the fact that I don't like being pregnant doesn't help. But another big part of it is that I have simply allowed myself to get lazy.
I have my good days each week, don't get me wrong. I still have the ability to make hubby come home and say, "Wow, babe, you went to town today!" when he looks around the house. Those are the good days. There are also the days when I get out of the house and get to the playground, run errands, or go out to visit someone. Those are good days, too. But today, like most days, I have no plans. I cleaned yesterday so there's really nothing to do in that area (that I want to do or feel like I still can with my big cow of a belly), and I have nowhere to be. So the "plan" today will be to rest.
I'm so sick of resting!! But I'm not willing to give it up - - it's just an inner struggle. I'm ready for this baby to be here. I'm tired of waiting, tired of being tired (though I know that with a newborn tiredness is going to be a regular feeling in our household for a while).
So I'll rest. I'll beat the last few levels on Roller Coaster Tycoon and I'll catch up on all my shows. And in the midst of this rest, I'll find something fun to do with my toddler that doesn't tire me out too much.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Community
Community - - I've always thought I knew the meaning of the word. Until today, when I realized that I had no concept of how to accept the community of others.
I have had an anxiety-filled day. It shouldn't have been that way, but when you're 30 weeks pregnant and forced to do the one thing that you hate most in the world (yes, that just might be the hormones talking), the simplest of errands can feel like it ends in catastrophe.
On my way out the door to get some routine blood work done this morning, I wrote a Facebook post that many people do when they're feeling the way I felt: I asked for prayer. When I got into the parking lot of the hospital, I said a prayer myself. I prayed that God would give me peace, that He would provide me with a technician who really knew what they were doing, and that I would hardly feel the needle that I was fearing so much.
I wiped the tears from my eyes, grabbed my son out of the back seat, and headed in. When I got to the front desk, the woman looked at me, with my toddler in my arms, and asked if I knew this was a one-hour test. I told her I hadn't realized. She then asked me if I had fasted. No, I hadn't. I'm pregnant and eat around the clock. I told her I would figure out another time to come in, and left.
Anxiety spiked. Now, instead of getting my blood work done in one quick swipe, I would have to sit around the office for an entire hour on an empty stomach. Not only that, but I would have to figure out how to pay a babysitter for that time. Financial stress was the last thing I needed.
When I got home I continued to feel Satan attacking me in a way he hasn't in a long time. I felt everything caving in around me, and I didn't know what to do. Then the Lord reminded me of the community around me. The community that was the reason why we moved here in the first place. He did so through several wonderful people.
Accepting help is not something I do easily. Tomorrow morning before breakfast I will bring the Love Bug to a friend's house and get the dreaded blood work done without a toddler in toe. What a blessing it is to have people surrounding me with prayers and love and support, and what an incredible added blessing that several friends have offered to actually help out! I could not be more thankful.
I promise to make an effort to accept help more often, if you will promise to hold me to it?
I have had an anxiety-filled day. It shouldn't have been that way, but when you're 30 weeks pregnant and forced to do the one thing that you hate most in the world (yes, that just might be the hormones talking), the simplest of errands can feel like it ends in catastrophe.
On my way out the door to get some routine blood work done this morning, I wrote a Facebook post that many people do when they're feeling the way I felt: I asked for prayer. When I got into the parking lot of the hospital, I said a prayer myself. I prayed that God would give me peace, that He would provide me with a technician who really knew what they were doing, and that I would hardly feel the needle that I was fearing so much.
I wiped the tears from my eyes, grabbed my son out of the back seat, and headed in. When I got to the front desk, the woman looked at me, with my toddler in my arms, and asked if I knew this was a one-hour test. I told her I hadn't realized. She then asked me if I had fasted. No, I hadn't. I'm pregnant and eat around the clock. I told her I would figure out another time to come in, and left.
Anxiety spiked. Now, instead of getting my blood work done in one quick swipe, I would have to sit around the office for an entire hour on an empty stomach. Not only that, but I would have to figure out how to pay a babysitter for that time. Financial stress was the last thing I needed.
When I got home I continued to feel Satan attacking me in a way he hasn't in a long time. I felt everything caving in around me, and I didn't know what to do. Then the Lord reminded me of the community around me. The community that was the reason why we moved here in the first place. He did so through several wonderful people.
Accepting help is not something I do easily. Tomorrow morning before breakfast I will bring the Love Bug to a friend's house and get the dreaded blood work done without a toddler in toe. What a blessing it is to have people surrounding me with prayers and love and support, and what an incredible added blessing that several friends have offered to actually help out! I could not be more thankful.
I promise to make an effort to accept help more often, if you will promise to hold me to it?
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Surviving Pregnancy
I hate being pregnant. I mean, really hate it. When I was pregnant with my first baby, I felt guilty for hating every second of it. By now I've made my peace with it - - and I've realized that I'm not the only one who feels this way!
Whether you hate every living breathing moment of being pregnant or you cherish the miracle happening inside of you, we have to find a way to survive it, don't we? I've been working on a list of products, attitudes, and activities that have helped me survive my pregnancies... and maybe even find some ways to enjoy it for a split second.
Summer's Eve Products
Have you ever heard of Summer's Eve? It's this ingenious company that makes wash and deodorant for our lady parts. If you are pregnant, or ever have been, you know how uncomfortable it is to realize how you smell down there... and there's really nothing we can do to stop it! Summer's Eve products make me feel more feminine and certainly less... well, stinky. I use the feminine wash at the end of every shower, and I use the deodorant every day at this point.
Take a Video of Your Belly Moving
Even if you don't want to share it with anyone, sit down and take a video of your moving belly - - it will cheer you up!!
Go for a Walk
Okay, I'm a lazy pregnant woman. I sit on the couch and watch TV most of the day. Walking up the stairs to change a child's diaper is way too much work! Going for a walk is often the furthest thing from my mind - - but then I step outside out of necessity and realize what the fresh air can do for me! And bringing my son for a walk is good for him, too - - he gets some energy out, which is wonderful for both of us!
Drink lots of Water
The doctor told me this when I was pregnant the first time, but I didn't want to listen (go figure!). But drinking lots of water actually does make me feel better. It helps with feet swelling, cramps, energy, and a whole lot more!
Sweatpants
I hate maternity pants. So when I'm too big for my jeans (with a hair tie holding the button closed), I only wear sweatpants!! Actually, this time around I picked up a $5 pair of jeans that are two sizes above what I usually wear and they fit great! I need more sweatpants, though, because I always feel better being pregnant when I'm comfortable... and jeans are not really the way to do that.
Milk it!!
I've learned to enjoy the perks of being pregnant - - like having people wait on me hand and foot, rubbing my feet, and carrying things/holding doors for me. I also have enjoyed eating whatever I want, whenever I want. If I have a craving, it's a good enough reason for us to have that food for dinner!
What helps you survive pregnancy?
Whether you hate every living breathing moment of being pregnant or you cherish the miracle happening inside of you, we have to find a way to survive it, don't we? I've been working on a list of products, attitudes, and activities that have helped me survive my pregnancies... and maybe even find some ways to enjoy it for a split second.
Summer's Eve Products
Have you ever heard of Summer's Eve? It's this ingenious company that makes wash and deodorant for our lady parts. If you are pregnant, or ever have been, you know how uncomfortable it is to realize how you smell down there... and there's really nothing we can do to stop it! Summer's Eve products make me feel more feminine and certainly less... well, stinky. I use the feminine wash at the end of every shower, and I use the deodorant every day at this point.
Take a Video of Your Belly Moving
Even if you don't want to share it with anyone, sit down and take a video of your moving belly - - it will cheer you up!!
Go for a Walk
Okay, I'm a lazy pregnant woman. I sit on the couch and watch TV most of the day. Walking up the stairs to change a child's diaper is way too much work! Going for a walk is often the furthest thing from my mind - - but then I step outside out of necessity and realize what the fresh air can do for me! And bringing my son for a walk is good for him, too - - he gets some energy out, which is wonderful for both of us!
Drink lots of Water
The doctor told me this when I was pregnant the first time, but I didn't want to listen (go figure!). But drinking lots of water actually does make me feel better. It helps with feet swelling, cramps, energy, and a whole lot more!
Sweatpants
I hate maternity pants. So when I'm too big for my jeans (with a hair tie holding the button closed), I only wear sweatpants!! Actually, this time around I picked up a $5 pair of jeans that are two sizes above what I usually wear and they fit great! I need more sweatpants, though, because I always feel better being pregnant when I'm comfortable... and jeans are not really the way to do that.
Milk it!!
I've learned to enjoy the perks of being pregnant - - like having people wait on me hand and foot, rubbing my feet, and carrying things/holding doors for me. I also have enjoyed eating whatever I want, whenever I want. If I have a craving, it's a good enough reason for us to have that food for dinner!
What helps you survive pregnancy?
Monday, September 16, 2013
Waiting
I heard a statistic a long time ago about how long the average person spends in their life waiting for something. If you Google it, you'll get all kinds of different answers. Ask.com said that the average person spends 2 weeks waiting at red lights... then if you scroll down you'll see they also say 8 years for the same statistic. Who knows? All I know is it's a long time.
AnYwAyS... when I first heard whichever statistic I heard, I made a decision that I would never waste time waiting for something again. I would always have something to do while I wait, whether it be homework (at the time I was in high school), memorizing scripture, ding a Sudoku puzzle... anything other than sitting around and waiting.
And yet here I sit, ten years later... waiting... for hubby to get home, for another life on Candy Crush, for the baby to come, for some clarity as to what I am to do with my life, for the baby to kick so I know that everything is still okay...
But perhaps waiting isn't the worst thing in the world? Maybe it's while I wait that I have the time to relax, and start to hear the voice of God more clearly? Maybe what I am willing to wait for says something about who I am. Maybe waiting helps me to trust in God in a whole new way.
So I'll wait. Maybe it won't always be patiently, but I will know that as I wait the Lord is working in me.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
It's been a long time...
It's been so long since I last posted!! There has been so much going on. Here's our family update:
We're pregnant!! Our "Little Bity" boy will be born in early December of this year. I hit the third trimester yesterday! Go me!
Love Bug is walking, talking, backtalking, climbing, and everything else that a 1.5 year-old should be doing. He is SO funny!!
We have a new pastor at our church, who is absolutely wonderful!
Hubby got a new job installing and fixing A/C and furnaces. And if I can just brag for a minute - - he got his license to buy and install refrigerants in the mail yesterday! I might not understand everything that he does (...or much of what he does at all...), but I'm so proud of all that he has been learning and of all the hard work he has been doing.
I started writing a book, and I also started writing my own curriculum for Children's Ministries.
Most recently, hubby and I have been talking about the possibility of my going to seminary full-time next semester (after the baby's born) to finish the ordination process, which I started about 8 years ago. Prayers in that area would be much appreciated!!
Well, now I'm remembering why I haven't posted in so long... writer's block hits as soon as I sit down at the computer! Maybe if I keep up with posts regularly, I won't have this problem.
Until next time! (And may that be sooner than the last time I said that...)
We're pregnant!! Our "Little Bity" boy will be born in early December of this year. I hit the third trimester yesterday! Go me!
Love Bug is walking, talking, backtalking, climbing, and everything else that a 1.5 year-old should be doing. He is SO funny!!
We have a new pastor at our church, who is absolutely wonderful!
Hubby got a new job installing and fixing A/C and furnaces. And if I can just brag for a minute - - he got his license to buy and install refrigerants in the mail yesterday! I might not understand everything that he does (...or much of what he does at all...), but I'm so proud of all that he has been learning and of all the hard work he has been doing.
I started writing a book, and I also started writing my own curriculum for Children's Ministries.
Most recently, hubby and I have been talking about the possibility of my going to seminary full-time next semester (after the baby's born) to finish the ordination process, which I started about 8 years ago. Prayers in that area would be much appreciated!!
Well, now I'm remembering why I haven't posted in so long... writer's block hits as soon as I sit down at the computer! Maybe if I keep up with posts regularly, I won't have this problem.
Until next time! (And may that be sooner than the last time I said that...)
Friday, March 29, 2013
Easter Gifts for Childcare Workers
At my church, the nursery is almost always open - - something I am very grateful for, as the mother of a 14-month-old who loves to move around and talk (loudly) during service.
I wanted to give the nursery workers a small gift of appreciation for their dedication to helping young families like ours enjoy the services on Easter. I have no money, and I am not very crafty. This is what I came up with (and I'm a little proud of them!).
Cookies in baggies - - cost me no money because I had all the ingredients on hand... and the baggies as well. I was tempted to run to the store and grab some (off-budget) cuter bags, but I resisted.
Those little flowers I have had in my crafting box for a long time now. Same with the cardstock.
What are you doing for the childcare workers at your church this Easter? Did this post inspire you? Leave me some love!
Friday, March 22, 2013
Discipline
Ugh - - that word. I hate that word. Yet here I am, forcing myself to write into our budget "Debt Snowball."
We are so excited to have taken Financial Peace University - - have you taken it yet? Seriously, you have to. It has revolutionized the way that we view our money. Here's the thing, though - - it takes an enormous amount of discipline. Here we go, though - - working through our debt snowball... and it might be weird, but I need to celebrate our little successes. Here is where we are in our debt snowball:
Our total debt = $139,104.64
(We have no credit cards, no house - - it's all student loans and my car)
We are so excited to have taken Financial Peace University - - have you taken it yet? Seriously, you have to. It has revolutionized the way that we view our money. Here's the thing, though - - it takes an enormous amount of discipline. Here we go, though - - working through our debt snowball... and it might be weird, but I need to celebrate our little successes. Here is where we are in our debt snowball:
Our total debt = $139,104.64
(We have no credit cards, no house - - it's all student loans and my car)
Thursday, March 21, 2013
7 Things that Every New Babysitter Should Know
We recently had a newbie babysitter watching our little love bug while we went out for a class in town. She had watched him a few times at her house, under the "supervision" of her parents. We were so excited to help this young lady out as she learned how to babysit.
I have been thinking a lot about my first babysitting experiences lately. I started babysitting quite young. When I started babysitting, I had already gained a lot of experience working with kids through my church. There were a lot of things that I didn't know, though. Here is a list of 10 things that every new babysitter should know - - from a new mom who started babysitting very young.
#7 - - Just because a child can crawl or walk doesn't mean s/he can get down from the couch or bed
Never leave a very young child unattended on the couch or bed. If the child sleeps in a bed rather than a crib, you should be good.
#6 - - If you wouldn't call the parents to ask them, don't text them.
Although parents will tell you that you can text or call about anything, they don't want you to unless you really need to. If you want to text them something positive, that's another story! Especially if it's your first time babysitting for the family or if you had to pry the child off of mom's leg, text a picture of their child smiling! Don't text the parents if it's not important enough for you to call them. You will be interrupting their night out which they are paying you for.
#5 - - Sometimes it takes an hour or more to put a child to bed.
Don't be surprised if your first time babysitting it takes a very long time to get the child to go to sleep. Try a variety of techniques, and make sure that you know the child's normal routine. Remember that the first time you put a child to bed will set the stage for the rest of your babysitting visits. Stand your ground - - bedtime means bedtime.
#4 - - Always clean up after yourself!!
This is a big one. If you want to disappoint the parent, leave all the dishes in the sink and toys all over the floor. If you want to impress the parent, do all the dishes and have everything cleaner than it was when you came! Somewhere in between there is what you should always be doing, though - at least rinse the dishes that you used, and clean up the toys that the kids played with while you were there.
#3 - - Get back to the parents in a timely manner
When the parents text/call/email you, always get back to them as soon as you possibly can. It's fine to ask your parents before you respond, but do it ASAP. The parents of the kids that you babysit should never have to ask your parents anything for you.
#2 - - It's okay to tell the parents what you charge per hour
If you're a beginner babysitter, start out around $3/hour. You can charge a different amount for each family for which you babysit based on how many kids they have and the ages. Don't go over $5/hour, though. We pay the babysitter that just started babysitting $3/hr and we pay the more experienced, college-aged babysitter $5/hr to watch our one-year-old son.
...and the #1 thing you need to know...
#1 - - Have fun!!
I have been thinking a lot about my first babysitting experiences lately. I started babysitting quite young. When I started babysitting, I had already gained a lot of experience working with kids through my church. There were a lot of things that I didn't know, though. Here is a list of 10 things that every new babysitter should know - - from a new mom who started babysitting very young.
#7 - - Just because a child can crawl or walk doesn't mean s/he can get down from the couch or bed
Never leave a very young child unattended on the couch or bed. If the child sleeps in a bed rather than a crib, you should be good.
#6 - - If you wouldn't call the parents to ask them, don't text them.
Although parents will tell you that you can text or call about anything, they don't want you to unless you really need to. If you want to text them something positive, that's another story! Especially if it's your first time babysitting for the family or if you had to pry the child off of mom's leg, text a picture of their child smiling! Don't text the parents if it's not important enough for you to call them. You will be interrupting their night out which they are paying you for.
#5 - - Sometimes it takes an hour or more to put a child to bed.
Don't be surprised if your first time babysitting it takes a very long time to get the child to go to sleep. Try a variety of techniques, and make sure that you know the child's normal routine. Remember that the first time you put a child to bed will set the stage for the rest of your babysitting visits. Stand your ground - - bedtime means bedtime.
#4 - - Always clean up after yourself!!
This is a big one. If you want to disappoint the parent, leave all the dishes in the sink and toys all over the floor. If you want to impress the parent, do all the dishes and have everything cleaner than it was when you came! Somewhere in between there is what you should always be doing, though - at least rinse the dishes that you used, and clean up the toys that the kids played with while you were there.
#3 - - Get back to the parents in a timely manner
When the parents text/call/email you, always get back to them as soon as you possibly can. It's fine to ask your parents before you respond, but do it ASAP. The parents of the kids that you babysit should never have to ask your parents anything for you.
#2 - - It's okay to tell the parents what you charge per hour
If you're a beginner babysitter, start out around $3/hour. You can charge a different amount for each family for which you babysit based on how many kids they have and the ages. Don't go over $5/hour, though. We pay the babysitter that just started babysitting $3/hr and we pay the more experienced, college-aged babysitter $5/hr to watch our one-year-old son.
...and the #1 thing you need to know...
#1 - - Have fun!!
Monday, March 18, 2013
A Tribute to my new Kindle Fire
I have been wanting a tablet for a long time now - - specifically, I have been wanting an ipad. Hubby kept telling me that ipads were too expensive (which of course is true) and that another tablet would be just as good (which I couldn't bring myself to believe).
When I was at Best Buy (after carefully planning out our budget and waiting for the right time to buy a tablet), I spoke with a representative and he told me that if I bought an outdated ipad (the only kind of ipad I could afford), in a few years I wouldn't be able to update the software because of how Apple products are. Apparently they come up with new products and leave their old products in the dust. Um, no thank you!
So I looked around at all the tablets they had in the store and I decided on the Kindle Fire. Got an OtterBox for it so the Love Bug can't destroy it and I am so happy!!
What kind of tablet did you buy? How did you make your decision? Leave some comment love!
When I was at Best Buy (after carefully planning out our budget and waiting for the right time to buy a tablet), I spoke with a representative and he told me that if I bought an outdated ipad (the only kind of ipad I could afford), in a few years I wouldn't be able to update the software because of how Apple products are. Apparently they come up with new products and leave their old products in the dust. Um, no thank you!
So I looked around at all the tablets they had in the store and I decided on the Kindle Fire. Got an OtterBox for it so the Love Bug can't destroy it and I am so happy!!
What kind of tablet did you buy? How did you make your decision? Leave some comment love!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Frosting
We celebrated my hubby's birthday last night!! I am so excited that he's turning 25 (and even more excited that I'm not the one turning 25 yet). I've known my love since freshman year of college when he was 17, we've been best friends since December of that same year, and we've been dating since he was almost 19. I married him when he was 21 and to celebrate his 25th with him is an extra special gift. He wanted chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. Although that's not what I would have chosen, - - when it comes to cake, I'm a vanilla girl - - he gets whatever he wants today!!
Here's the recipe. I got it from a friend who got it from her mother-in-law. I don't know where she got it, so if it's yours, let me know and I'll credit you! It's called Black Magic Cake, and I have to say it's delicious!! Usually it goes with a peanut butter frosting that is to die for, but hubby wanted chocolate!
Ingredients You'll Need:
1 cup sugar
1 cup flour
3 Tablespoons cocoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 Tablespoons oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup boiling water
1 teaspoon baking soda
**Preheat oven to 350°F (I always forget to do this before I start baking...)
Step One: Combine first 8 ingredients
Pour into a bowl the first 8 ingredients above (1 cup sugar through 1 teaspoon vanilla). No need to mix them yet.
Step Two: Dissolve 1 teaspoon baking soda in 1 cup boiling water
Do just that - - I put the baking soda in the measuring cup and then add the water and stir a bit. It should dissolve itself for the most part.
Step Three: Mix together all ingredients
Pour the water mixture over the rest of the ingredients in the bowl, then beat the mixture until smooth. The batter will be very runny!
Step Four: Pour into greased pan and bake
Remember, the batter will be very runny. That's how it's supposed to be, don't worry! Grease an 8X8 pan and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. I had to put mine in for an extra 3 minutes. Use a toothpick in the center and if it comes out clean, you're all set!
When it comes out, it should look like this:
Let the cake cool for at least one hour before frosting. Put it on a wire rack so it really cools all the way through. If you skip this step or try to rush it, the frosting will run off.
Step Six: Frost
Use a knife (or, if you're super-crafty, a pastry squeezy thing) and frost that baby with your favorite frosting. I used a homemade frosting.
Step Seven: Decorate!
I used M&Ms to cover the cake, starting with the sides.
The top didn't come out exactly like I imagined it, but it still wowed my hubby! I guess that's what I was going for all along :)
Step Eight: Hide it!
Step Nine: Enjoy!!
I think this was the Love Bug's first taste of cake! He finished his first (big surprise).
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Devos - Tidbits
If you're following your devos with me, you should be reading somewhere around John 10, somewhere in the middle of James, and Proverbs 10.
Today is a really cool day for how the devos work out - - especially if you are starting over in the book of James.
This reading will bring us in to the beginning of meditations about Jesus' path to the cross. Easter is on March 31 this year - - exactly 3 weeks from today. As you go through the rest of the book of John, you will start to see Jesus willingly headed toward the cross to die for each of us.
John 10:14 "I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep, and my sheep know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I give my life for the sheep."
We are the sheep. If you want to dig a little deeper, listen to these sermons that my beloved pastor gave, and read Psalm 23.
Fearless (Pastor John Keller) - - he'll make one quick announcement that doesn't apply any more, then go in to the sermon.
Rest (Pastor Andy Sass) - - If you're only going to listen to one, choose this one!
Restore (Pastor Andy Sass) -
God's Thoughts (Pastor Andy Sass)
Today is a really cool day for how the devos work out - - especially if you are starting over in the book of James.
This reading will bring us in to the beginning of meditations about Jesus' path to the cross. Easter is on March 31 this year - - exactly 3 weeks from today. As you go through the rest of the book of John, you will start to see Jesus willingly headed toward the cross to die for each of us.
John 10:14 "I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep, and my sheep know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I give my life for the sheep."
We are the sheep. If you want to dig a little deeper, listen to these sermons that my beloved pastor gave, and read Psalm 23.
Fearless (Pastor John Keller) - - he'll make one quick announcement that doesn't apply any more, then go in to the sermon.
Rest (Pastor Andy Sass) - - If you're only going to listen to one, choose this one!
Restore (Pastor Andy Sass) -
God's Thoughts (Pastor Andy Sass)
Friday, March 1, 2013
Devotions
Are you having a hard time getting into the habit of doing devotions? Well, the first of the month is a great time to start!!
If you are a Christian and you have simply been having a hard time getting into God's Word, I highly recommend that you go through the following books of the Bible:
John
James
Proverbs
Let's take this one book at a time...John
Open your Bible to John 1 and start reading. When you feel you have gotten all you need out of it for the day, you stop reading. In John this could be any amount from a few verses to three chapters. It just depends on what God is speaking into your life each day. When you come back tomorrow, you should be able to remember where you left off. If you find yourself not paying attention to what you're reading, that's a clue that you should stop reading on John for that day.
You'll want to have finished John at least one time by the end of this month. There are 21 chapters in John. If you complete the whole book twice or more throughout the month, you're going too fast. If you don't finish the book at all, you're going to slow.
James
After you read John, turn to James. James was Jesus' half-brother. He spent his childhood growing up with the Savior of the world. This made him very wise. James is my favorite book of the Bible. You're going to do the same thing that you did with John, but you probably won't end up reading nearly as much of James each day. Again, you should be able to come back the next day and remember where you left off.
You might go through James a few times this month. When you finish the book, go back and start at the beginning. You'll be surprised what different things God can say to you through the same book.
Proverbs
Proverbs is the last book that you'll read, and it has a specific amount that you will read. There are 31 Proverbs - - perfect for going through them each month!! So on the 1st of the month, you'll read Proverbs 1, on the 2nd you'll read the 2nd Proverb, and so on. If you miss a day of devos, this is what will tell you. Don't get discouraged, just read the Proverb that goes along with that day of the month - - even if it means that you have to skip a chapter.
When this month is over, check back here! If I get a good response, I will keep up with giving you books of the Bible that will help you keep up with your devos.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
If Only We Could Pay Our Hubbies
I recently wrote a post about what our paychecks would be as Stay-At-Home Moms. It gave me the idea to write a post about how much our hubbies do outside of their punch-the-clock job.
I am so blessed to have a husband who cares about our family and loves being at home! Unfortunately, he is not able to be at home nearly as much as either of us would like. He works long hours and has a very long commute each day. Thankfully he now has Saturdays and Sundays off, so he has a little more time to spend with our family! I can't begin to express, to you or to him, how incredibly thankful I am for my husband!
I wish I could "pay" him for all that he does, but I know that he feels the same way I do when "working" at home - - that the work is its own reward. Here is how I would like to pay my hubby...
Setting the table - - A peck on each cheek
Putting our son down for bed - - Tickle Fight!!
Planning a date - - :x ;)
Clearing the table - - A big bear hug
Playing with our son - - A night of cuddling
Doing Dishes - - One long kiss
Doing anything off of his honey-do list - - A romantic kiss for each minute it takes him
Helping me in the kitchen - - A good old fashioned flour fight!
What does your hubby do that lets you know he cares about your family?
I am so blessed to have a husband who cares about our family and loves being at home! Unfortunately, he is not able to be at home nearly as much as either of us would like. He works long hours and has a very long commute each day. Thankfully he now has Saturdays and Sundays off, so he has a little more time to spend with our family! I can't begin to express, to you or to him, how incredibly thankful I am for my husband!
I wish I could "pay" him for all that he does, but I know that he feels the same way I do when "working" at home - - that the work is its own reward. Here is how I would like to pay my hubby...
Setting the table - - A peck on each cheek
Putting our son down for bed - - Tickle Fight!!
Planning a date - - :x ;)
Clearing the table - - A big bear hug
Playing with our son - - A night of cuddling
Doing Dishes - - One long kiss
Doing anything off of his honey-do list - - A romantic kiss for each minute it takes him
Helping me in the kitchen - - A good old fashioned flour fight!
What does your hubby do that lets you know he cares about your family?
Monday, February 18, 2013
Card Table Makeover!
We have a card table that belonged to my late grandmother. Well, it's pretty old - - and has some scratches in it. I like having a card table, but I really would like it to look nicer. I was putsing around on Pinterest and I found this craft idea! The original idea came from The Bearded Family's blog. Here's what I did with mine!
What you'll need
- Card Table
- Vinyl Tablecloth
- Staple Gun (and Staples)
- Scissors
- Flathead Screwdriver
- A big open space (the floor works)
Step Two - - Take out the screws
Step Four - - Lay out your tablecloth
I bought my tablecloth for super cheap at Walmart... also check the Christmas Tree Shoppe!
Step Five - - Staple while pulling tight
This is the trickiest part of the whole process. You want to staple the edges of your tablecloth right next to where the original tabletop was stapled. I used a normal paper stapler, and it was difficult. Not all the staples held, and I tried hammering them in but that didn't always work either. I would have used a staple gun, but I couldn't find staples that were short enough to not go through the whole table.
Start at the edge of your table, not at a corner. Go all the way along the edge with your stapler.
I went from stapling one edge to stapling the adjacent edge (skipping corners - - I saved those for last). This worked well when it came to pulling the tablecloth tight. You don't want any wrinkles!!
To do the corners, what you want to do is start at the very edge of the corner and pull the cloth tight with one hand while you staple with the other.
When you have that first staple in, make a cut next to the staple (not too close, and not too far). This will allow you to pull the middle of your corner straight without creating layers that a normal stapler can't go through.
Next, pull tight and staple again right in the middle of your corner.
Staple the last end of the tablecloth. Cut off the excess cloth. Don't cut too close to the staples that you have made. You might also want to put in some more staples around the corner.
Step Six - - Reattach the frame
If you took it off, you can put it back on! Screw clockwise this time (righty-tighty).
You're done! How did it turn out? Send me a picture, leave a comment!
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