Christmas 2011

We hope all of you had an awesome Christmas, because we sure did! We drove up to visit Dan's family in South Carolina on Christmas Eve and returned to Birmingham this afternoon. Instead of giving you a detailed description of the entire holiday experience, I will now regale you with a photo narrative. If you're reading this, I already assume you're interested in what happens in our lives, so enjoy!
"OOh! A ball with beads thingy! I didn't have one of those in the womb!"

Baby Lawson, our favorite boy cousin.

Opening presents with the girl who refused to wear her lovely bow.

Uncle Ben practicing for the sweet bundle he and Aunt Elizabeth are expecting in April. We're expecting a lot from you, Ben. David is reporting back to us on how you performed.

I love, love, love this picture. That is pure joy on my baby girl's face. I think she likes the tricycle Santa brought, don't you?

Baby D's first adorably humiliating Christmas outfit. Yep. This one's going in the senior yearbook.

I threw this one in just because I adore my husband. He's such a good dad to our kidddies.

Baby D snuggles with Aunt Elizabeth in an attempt to communicate with Baby Mary Mathews about life on the outside.

Baby D and Lawson, jes' chillin'.

That's all, folks! Next up, New Year's resolutions.

A Little Christmas Nostalgia

I know I'm not the only one who feels just a little pang of nostalgia for childhood memories when Christmas time rolls around.
As a self-professed TV junkie, I must admit that many of my memories from the early 80's are centered around ABC After School Specials, commercials, and the words, "Tonight, on a very special _____."
So, because Christmas seems more Christmas-y when I see the following commercials, I thought I would share them with all five of you to help boost your holiday cheer.
Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7kxPYzigCQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Xi-kKMBNe0&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4kNl7cQdcU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DknyfnzIhjo&feature=related

One more thing. Although my ears do tend to bleed upon hearing the twang of country "music," it's just not Christmas until I hear "Christmas in Dixie."

Something to Think About This Week

"The the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store? What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more?" -- Dr. Seuss

Look! Up In the Sky!

It's a bird! I'd a plane! No, it's...

My kids.

Let's briefly recap the winter and spring seasons of 2010 and 2011. Madeline was pretty much average for her age until she was about 6 months old. Then, she started getting tall. Really tall.

By the time she was 18 months old, she was half my height. I'm talking waist-high, folks. Yes, I realize I'm only 5 feet 4 inches tall, but that's average, for heaven's sake!

Fast forward to this morning.

This was the eight-week appointment for Baby D and the two year appointment for Sweet Pea.

At eight weeks old, David is already in the 70th percentile for length (height), and Madeline is now half Dan's height. The girl is over three feet tall!!

I know it's hard to believe, but all through elementary school I was just a smidgen taller than the other kids in my class. That came to a halt in middle school.
Dan's mom has a picture of his kindergarten class Christmas program, and Dan looks like a chaperone.

I'm going to need a mini-van for no reason other than that my children are going to burst through the roof of my Honda Accord.

Sweet David James

Yes, I know I've been slack about posting all the awesome things about our David. I feel horrible about that, especially since I posted so much about Madeline during the first few weeks of her life. But, I guess I'm destined to saddle the poor boy with second child syndrome. Between accepting "gifts" of ornaments from the tree that Madeline brings me (because she's helping me 'keen up!'), the constant care that always accompanies the first couple of months of a baby's life, and trying to keep some semblance of order around the house, I just haven't had time to blog as much. I will tell you that this smile is almost always on his precious little face. He is such a sweet, happy baby! He loves to cuddle and has a smile for everyone who holds him. And, oh my gosh, does he adore Madeline! We made an attempt at having Christmas pictures made (another post for another time) and the incredibly patient photographer had a hard time getting him to look at the camera because he was so focused on what his big sister was doing.

Here she is showing him how the floor gym works. I'm not kidding. I put him down and she lay beside him, pointed to all the toys attached and said, "Yook, Dabid!" They seem to have a very special bond already. Oh, and try to ignore Madeline's shiner in this picture. No, I haven't signed her up for boxing lessons. She got into an altercation with the bannister, and the bannister won.

I promise, faithful five readers, to post more about our happy boy. He's about to be 2 months old! Can you believe it?

You know what's funny? As an only child, I couldn't imagine being able to love anyone as much as I love Madeline. But, I was soooo wrong! This little guy sets my heart on fire just as much as his sister always has!

Guess Who's Two??

Our sweet Madeline turned TWO yesterday!! Geez, when did that happen?! I'm seriously terrified that I'm going to wake up tomorrow morning and she's not going to be in her bed because she's already left for college.

We celebrated by sharing some Minnie Mouse-themed cupcakes with a few friends.
My dear friend, Rachael the Talented, made this precious shirt for Madeline's big day. Madeline declared, "Minnie Mou'! I yove dis shirt!" (Translation: "Minnie Mouse! I love this shirt!")

It was a lot of fun. I'd love to post all the pictures we took, but it would take forever.

We are so blessed to have this sweet, happy, beautiful girl in our lives for the past two years. I'm looking forward to seeing what the coming years bring.

When I tucked her into bed last night, the conversation went like this:

"Night-night."

"Nigh'-night, Mommy."

"I love you."

"I yove you, too. Hap' birday, Mommy."

Happy birthday, my sweet girl.

Thankfulness, Part 30

In my final post on thankfulness, I'd like to thank God for giving me the desire to help others, to educate, and to be a good wife and mom. I'd also like to thank Him for the ability to do all those things.

On that note, loyal five people who read this, I'd like to encourage you to discover what God has called you to do and do it with gusto. You've been called to a purpose for a reason. Embrace it!

Peace and Love,
H

Thankfulness, Part 29

I'm thankful that I have people in my life who are positive and compassionate. Often, I need reminders to embody those two traits, myself.

I also need reminders that life is not about ME. In the grand scheme of things, nothing will matter except that I shared love and joy with those who didn't have any, and shared what I had with people who needed it more than I. And, that's not about me.

Thank you, God, for the reminders of what really matters.


http://www.adventconspiracy.com/

Thankfulness, Part 28

Today, I'm thankful that God seems to finally be pushing the pause button on the warm weather and ushering in some glorious winter days. There's even talk of snow in the forecast!

Finally!!

Thankfulness, Part 27

I'm thankful for the season of Advent.

I love this time of anticipation of the coming Christ. I love everything from the candles to the month-long series of carols being sung at church to the feeling that something wonderful is about to happen.

That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown. These are the values we want our children to have.

I've said this before, but I can't say it emphatically enough. We do not want to raise our children with the idea that Christmas is all about the gimmes. It's about hope, love, joy, and peace - all those wonderful gifts that Christ brought with him to Bethlehem and the whole world.

Presents? Sure! But, Advent first. Anticipate the incredible mystery that is the birth of our Savior first, and then receive.

Thankfulness, Part 26

I think I said this last year, but I'm thankful for reliable transportation.

Anyone who has ever said a prayer as they tried repeatedly to turn the key in the ignition knows this feeling.

Thank you Lord, for my means of transport and for getting me from one place to another safely.

Thankfulness, Part 25

I'm thankful for long naps. For me, when I get the opportunity, but mostly for the long naps my kids take that allow me little snippets of time to catch up on a cup of tea, a slice of cheesecake, and a movie adapted fro a Jane Austen novel.

It's good to have a few minutes to oneself to collect one's thoughts.

Just a Couple of Thanksgiving Pictures!

How David spent his first Thanksgiving.

Playing in the leaves, or as Madeline calls them, the "piddy yeeps!"

Yum!

Goodnight, and Happy Thanksgiving!

Thankfukness, Part 24

Happy Thanksgiving, one and all!

Today, I'm just thankful. That's it. I'm thankful for all of it. It's all a part of God's master plan, and He deserves our thanks and praise.

Amen.

Thankfulness, Part 23

I'm thankful that there are two Starbuckses (yes, that's spelled correctly. Look it up.) near enough to my house that I can knock out my get out of the house/need a quick pick-me-up fix pretty quickly.

Thankfulness, Parts 19, 20, 21, & 22

19) I'm thankful for moments when my Madeline looks at me and says, in her precious little voice, "Mommy princess!" Thanks, Sweet Pea!

20) I'm thankful for nights when David sleeps 4 hours at a stretch. That's only happened a couple of times, but last night was one of them. Although I don't relish the sleep deprivation, he's only going to be this little once, and he won't always want to cuddle with me in the middle of the night.

21) I'm thankful for the grown folks' time Dan and I spend together in the evenings, watching TV shows on which no one sings, counts, or recites the alphabet. I'm thankful for the opportunity to sit side-by-side with my husband and talk about our day, make plans, etc. He really is my best friend.

22) I'm thankful that I have spent the entire week, thus far and continuing tomorrow, catching up with true, dear friends whom I don't see often enough. I can think of a few more with whom I'd love to sit at the table and share coffee and conversation. In the meantime, I'm thankful for social media that keeps us in touch.

Thankfulness, Part 18

I'm thankful that I have all five senses.

If there were a fire in our house, I would be able to hear the smoke detector and get myself and the babies to safety. For the past year and a half or so, I have been able to hear my sweet Madeline's laughter, and I can't think of any sound that brings more pure joy. When David is hungry, I can hear his little cries so that I can feed him.

I can see my kids growing. I can see and appreciate those lush fall colors I can't seem to shut up about. I can see to drive, which gives me the freedom to come and go as I please.

I can smell bread baking, fresh flowers, David's sweet little baby smell, and grapefruit (yum!). I can also smell poopy diapers, which isn't pleasant, but it helps me take care of my children.

I can feel my husband's touch. I can show him and my babies how much I love them with lots of snuggles and nuzzles. And then, there's the feel of sheets that are fresh and warm from the dryer. Ahhh....

I can taste my coffee, pasta with plenty of basil and garlic, a good glass of red wine, and pretty much anything with cream cheese icing.

Lord, thank you for creating all these wonderful things to enjoy. And, thank you for giving me the senses to enjoy them. Help us remember to devote our time and help to those who lack one or more of these, and, and thank you for giving them your comfort.

Thankfulness, Part 17

I'm thankful that Dr. T has given me the go-ahead to continue with normal activities - including picking up my Sweet Pea!
It's good to have my life back.

Thankfulness, Part 16

I'm thankful that my family is clothed and shod.

I don't need to tell you how many people can't say that. Unless you live under a very large rock, you already know.

You know what's great, though?

There are so many people who are struggling to keep their families clothed, yet they find the time and words to count their blessings and be thankful, anyway.

Thankfulness, Part 15

Madeline's birthday party is in two weeks. (If you haven't received an invitation yet, be patient. I ran out of stamps.) So, I'm looking around our townhouse thinking, "Where the heck am I going to put all these people?? We're outgrowing this place. I need a bigger house!"

NEED? Really? Dan and I have a very nicely furnished bedroom, and so do each of our kids. If we need to go tinkle, we have our choice of three (relatively) clean places to go and do that. This place is climate controlled all year long. We have electricity, running water, a place to wash our clothes, our dishes, and ourselves in clean water, and shelter from the elements.

I could go on and on about what we have here.

And yet, I complain that the space we occupy might not be as large as someone else's. I worry what other women will think when they come in and see that I don't have all the storage space in the world, so things that should be put away are out in full view.

The truth is, I have a nicer place to live than most people in the entire world. Shame on me for expecting more.

Thank you, God, for providing a roof to go over our heads. Please don't let us forget those who will lie down tonight with nothing but the ground for a bed and the sky for a roof.

Thankfulness, Parts 12, 13, & 14

12) I'm thankful for little things that lift my spirits: short excursions to Starbucks for something seasonally yummy; looking at Madeline's blond curls brushing her shoulders; the sound of David cooing; an inspirational quote posted by a friend on facebook; Dan's hand reaching over to rub my shoulder as we spend some "us time" every evening.
Thank you, God, for little reminders of how good life is.

13) I'm thankful for my ecclectic taste in music. Blame it on parents who didn't listen to the same radio station and made sure I was exposed to every kind of music so I could choose for myself and didn't like something just because other people did. Wouldn't it be great if we could all make informed decisions about everything, instead of just picking something because someone tells us we're supposed to?
Thank the good Lord that with all that music, car rides never have to be boring.

14) I'm thankful that my follow-up appointment with Dr. T is later this week, and hopefully I'll be able to return to normal activities, like picking up and playing with my kid!

4 Weeks Old!

Love that sticky-uppy hair!

Thankfulness, Part 11

Today is Veteran's Day, and the Head family is thankful for all the men and women who have put their lives on the line to ensure that we can feel secure.

Lord, thank you for sending those who have answered the call of duty. As for those who are currently serving, please keep them safe and bring them home to the people who love them.

Thankfulness, Part 10

I'm thankful for our church, and the freedom to worship there. I'm thankful that we can get up every Sunday morning and go to church, hear God's Word proclaimed, and nurture our relationship with Christ, and we can do it without persecution.

Every day, Christians are arrested, imprisoned, or worse, for the crime of worshiping Christ. It may not happen under our noses, but it happens more frequently than we care to think about when we're dressed up in our Sunday best, sitting on a plush pew in a climate controlled, beautiful sanctuary. So many of our Christian brothers and sisters are kneeling on a dirt floor, whispering prayers and living in fear of what will happen to them if they are caught praising God.

Thank you, Lord, that I can worship you when and where I please and teach my children to do likewise. I can keep this blog and have multiple Bibles in my home and pretend that the whole world has the same freedom. But in truth, it's all because of Your grace.

Thankfulness, Part 9

I am thankful for mommies who refuse to participate in the Mommy Wars.

That's it.

Thankfulness, Part 8

The side of our refrigerator is littered with the beautiful faces of sweet babies whose parents have sent us announcements of their arrivals. Our own childrens' birth announcements are among those, and Madeline's is the only pink announcement on the whole fridge. :)

I'm thankful for all those precious children and the joy they bring to their parents and to us.

Lord, bless those children with health, love, and joy. I pray that each of them chooses Your path.

Thankfulness, Parts 5,6, & 7

5) I'm thankful for small things that I take for granted on a daily basis. You know, things like disposable diapers and running water. I'm thankful for fleece pajamas when it's chilly at night, for a cell phone that I can use to call someone if there is ever an emergency, for reliable transportation, and for a warm, soft bed.
Thank you, God, for your provision. You really do spoil us sometimes. I hope I never forget to tell You how much I appreciate it.

6) I'm thankful for things that make me laugh. I know some of you think I don't have much of a sense of humor and that I don't laugh often enough, but that's not true. I just don't make any sound when I laugh. Anyway, I'm thankful for irony and satire. I'm thankful for my kids (and kids in general), cats, dogs, The Andy Griffith Show, Friends, Adam Sandler, and books by Gavin Edwards. I'm especially thankful for jokes shared between me and Sara V, stuff Sheryl says, Jakki's anecdotes, memories of making up alternate lyrics to songs with Misty, and my husband's constant reminders that if we don't laugh at ourselves, we'll cry our eyes out.
Lord, thank you for the gift of laughter, and for making your own sense of humor evident.

7) I'm thankful for decent medical care. I know we all complain about how the healthcare system operates here in America - whichever side you're on - but, think about how it could be. I just had a baby by c-section. He was delivered by a competent doctor in a sterile room. I have now had two children knowing that my prenatal care was there to ensure that my children and I were safe and healthy.
Thank you, Lord, that when I am sick or injured, there are board certified, educated doctors available to help me feel better and I don't just have to suffer. Big, huge thanks that both my children are here and healthy.

Thankfulness, Part 4

Today, I give thanks that we have family and friends who love us.
Even though so many of them live entirely too far away, there has been no end to the calls, text messages, emails, facebook messages, etc. from people who care and want to know how the baby is, how Madeline is adjusting, how we're doing, how I'm healing, or just want to let us know they're happy for us.

It meant the world to me when one of my dearest friends, who now seems a world away even though it's only three hours, just wanted to know if I was having a better day than the one before.

There have, so far, been four women in my MOPS group who have volunteered to come over to help with dinner. That may not sound like much, but it's a huge help when you can't do much else but sit on the couch and feed the baby. Besides, I've only been to two MOPS meetings. These women don't even know me.

Thank you, Lord, for putting people in our lives who simply love us - no strings attached. Help us to return that love back to them.

Thankfulness, Part 3

When I was in graduate school, I had a professor who grew up in Ghana. He took a few moments of our class time once to explain how the education system works there.
In Ghana, only children whose parents can pay for their education are allowed to go to school. When a child turns 12, he takes the test. I know that in our current educational situation here in the U.S., THE TEST means whatever standardized test the teacher is required to give that year and have every student pass, regardless of circumstances, in order to keep his or her good standing as an educator. That's not what it means in Ghana.
The test is what determines whether or not a child is allowed to continue his education. If the student passes the test, he is allowed to return to school. If not, the child is put to work and the government chooses his job. The jobs given to these children are on the bottom rung, and that is the person's job for life.
The process is repeated three times before the child is an adult. The jobs assigned improve slightly with each test, but it always works the same way.

College? Ha! Only if the child's parents are very, very rich. We're talking royalty rich.

Did you notice I only used male pronouns? Yeah. Girls are not allowed to be educated at all.

So, today, I'd like to give thanks for my education.
I was not only allowed, but required by law to be educated for at least 11 years. Yes, I whined and complained just like every other kid about going to school and doing homework. But, what a gift! I can read and think for myself and make my own choices. How many people in the world would love to have that chance??

My gender makes no difference. We may have different degrees, but I have as much education as my husband and no one told me not to. I chose to be a teacher. No one chose that for me.

Sometimes, I feel guilty because I have had the opportunity to acquire as much education as I want, and I still want more. I mean, there are girls who can't lawfully even read their own names, and I'm pouting because I don't have a Ph.D. or because I'd like to finish what I started in seminary. (Yes, CTS friends who read this. You told me so. Another post.) Whine, whine, whine.

Thank you, God, for the opportunity to be educated and do something with my life. I pray that I never take this gift for granted.

Thankfulness, Part 2

Having just come home from David's two-week appointment with Dr. G, and having heard a great report on my sweet little boy, I'd like to express my thankfulness at having two beautiful, wonderful, healthy children.

I can barely remember what life was like before Madeline, and I don't want to. A good friend once told me, long before I became a mom, that if I thought I loved Dan, just wait until I had children; it would blow my mind. She was absolutely right.

There is nothing like loving these incredible gifts that God has provided us and watching them grow. They are His, on loan to us and entrusted to our care. He has put them in our safekeeping and is relying on us to direct them, to shape them, to love them unconditionally. I can't think of a responsibility that I would be more willing to accept.

Yes, I know what a blessing it is that we were able to conceive these two angels, that they were born healthy and strong, and that we have the means to take care of them - and then some. God has been so good to us.

Thank you, God, for Madeline and David. I need Your guidance to be the mom You have planned for them. Help us to provide all the love and instruction they need to bring Your plans for their lives to fruition.

30 Days of Thankfulness

1 Chronicles 16:34 "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever."

Throughout the month of November, I will be counting my blessings and sharing those things for which I am thankful. There may not be 30 posts, but there will be 30 blessings posted here (at least).

Today, I'm thankful for my husband. I don't say it enough, and I certainly don't tell him enough, but I am so grateful for a husband who genuinely loves me and our children, and shows it every day.
I was so worried for so many years that I was going to be the proverbial "old maid" who lived alone with 137 cats. I even had a pastor tell me once that she didn't see me as being married; she saw me as a wise old woman who lived in a remote village and helped others with their children. I still don't know what vibe I was exuding to make her think that.
Now, I'm forever and profusely thankful that God always knows better than I do. God knew that I wouldn't be happy with just any man. So, He set aside a husband who treats me as his equal, who respects me, who sees more good in me than I see in myself.
God set aside a husband for me who takes care of me and our kids when we're sick, who puts the needs of his family before his own wants.
I couldn't ask for more. I couldn't love him more.

Thank you, God, for Dan and for knowing me better than I know myself.

Happy Halloween!

David sports his pumpkin pj's. No trick-or-treating for you, baby boy!

My little garden gnome.

I liked that there were people at Trunk-or-Treat who were handing out toys instead of candy. All the fun, no cavities!

Sweet little gnome walking with her daddy.

So...we played too hard and took a little tumble. No real harm done. Just a little bump.

We hope you all have a safe and fun Halloween!!

Madeline the Fearless

This is not a trait she inherited from me. At 23 months (almost), she has more athletic ability in her right foot than I have in my entire body.

Climbing wall, twisty slide, you name it. Bring it on. Madeline the Fearless will tackle any obstacle with a smile on her face, and then ask to do it again.

A New Normal?

There are still no good pictures of my two babies together. Sorry. Hmmm...I wonder if I'm apologizing to you or me?

We've been trying to settle into a new normal. That is, we're trying to settle into a new "normal for now." This is the normal in which Madeline watches too much Caillou and makes the living room look like a toy store exploded; the normal in which I can't pick her up to love on her or put her in her high chair; the normal in which I can't scrub the bathroom or vacuum the floors (Hey! I used to do that occasionally!).

This is the new normal in which Dan takes over the stuff I used to do - dishes, laundry, Madeline's bath, making arrangements for dinner - until I feel up to it. He's been such a huge help, and never complains.
Everybody sing! What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man! (He's a mighty, mighty good man!) Many thanks to Salt n' Pepa for providing today's soundtrack.

Anyway, I'm not a fan of the new "normal for now." I do not like being limited in what I can do. I don't want to have someone else do the laundry. I don't want to have someone else put my baby girl to bed. Again, I do not like limits! Thankfully, it should only be a couple of weeks. Still. What's funny is that I was so eager to not be pregnant anymore so that I could move around freely and sleep better. Then, I had a c-section. Hmph.

Enough whining. I love my husband. I love my kids. I am more blessed and thankful than I can put into words. God has been so, so much more gracious and kind to me than I deserve.

I can do this, right?

And Now, There Are Four

I've been trying to get a decent picture of Madeline and David together, but the suddenly camera-shy diva has not allowed that to happen.
We thought you might want to know the story of Baby D's arrival.
6 a.m. was our arrival time at the hospital, and things seemed to be moving pretty quickly - that is, until the afternoon approached, I was 8 cm, and the kid hadn't budged an inch. C-section time! No, it wasn't in the plan, but he's here safe and healthy, and that's all we really cared about.
After one extra day in the hospital, we brought out sweet boy home to his room and his big sister. I don't think she quite knew what to think of him at first, but now she's a bit of a mother hen. She finds things for him, brings him his blanket or his paci, kisses his head and tells him she loves him; it's so, so sweet.
So, I'm still pretty sore and can't do a lot. It's killing me that I can't pick up Madeline. Seriously, killing me. But, Dan is the most incredible husband on earth and has done an excellent job taking care of me, Madeline, and the laundry while I feed David and try to heal so I can chase a toddler and take care of a newborn at the same time.
That's all I have for now, I think. Praise God for my healthy, wonderful babies and my awesome husband. I couldn't ask for more.

He's Here!!!

David James Head
October 14, 2011 3:34pm
7lbs 5oz
20.75 inches

Last Day As an Only Child!

She's suddenly camera shy. Hmmm...

Poll Results

If you look to the right, you will see that the poll has officially closed. You will also see that the results are reflected as 62% and 37%. I'll give my fellow English teachers a minute to go get your calculators...

...

I know!! It's not 100%! Did that mess with your brain, too??

Anyway, 62% of you are correct. We've opted for induction this Friday, October 14, if David hasn't arrived yet. We're sort of hoping he holds out until then to give my mom a chance to heal from her gallbladder surgery, and Dan's mom a chance to get here.

We have accomplished a lot, but still have several small loose ends to tie. The nursery is finished. Woohoo!!! The laundry is in the process of getting done, hospital preregistration has been taken care of, the new baby stuff has been purchased, and the big sister has been notified of the changes about to take place. Whew!

Now, I just want to hold this sweet baby and kiss his little face.

5 more days!

Time for Another Poll!

Yesterday, I visited Dr. T for my 37 week appointment. Everything's still hunky dory. I lost a pound (again), and I can't tell you how much that continues to surprise me. With Madeline, I gained 35 pounds. I've gained 18 with this one. Weird.

Anyway, Dr. T says David's ripe for the picking whenever he gets good and ready. It may not surprise you to know that I'm good and ready. She mentioned induction if he's not here by the 17th, and I'm good with that.

There have, however, been some predictions made that he might arrive before then. Dan's one of the soothsayers making these predictions. I'm not sure if he's basing it on my size, my BH contractions, the fact that I can barely move, or if it's wishful thinking on his part. I wouldn't blame him. I'm a mess. Just imagine that Medusa as a character in The Bell Jar.

We'd love to know what you think! There's a poll on the right. When do you think Baby David will grace us with his presence?

Playground Etiquette?

Part of me wanted to title this post, "Here I Go Again."
Welcome to another episode of, "Is it just ME???"

First, I want to clarify something. I am still in the South, right? You know, the South where people are noted for having better manners than anywhere else in the world. I still live there, don't I?

Maybe it's because I didn't spend a lot of time on playgrounds when I was a kid. You see, my mom was convinced that if she took me out and let me play in public parks and such places, that two things might happen: 1. I might bump into something, and since I was obviously made of very rare and precious glass, that might cause me to get scratched or chipped in some way. 2. Another child who had a dirty face or dirty hands might come within 10 feet of me, which would be the cause of a natural disaster such as the world has never seen, such as the sky bursting into flames or all the lakes and rivers drying up at once.
Anyway, I'm thinking perhaps that might be the reason I'm so unschooled in public playground etiquette.

I just sort of assumed that the same rules for common courtesy would apply there as anywhere else.
I didn't know that it was OK for one mom to block a play area with her body so that only her own children could play there. But, sure enough, I witnessed this behavior earlier this week when I took Madeline to the park.

I've seen a dad let his much older children take over the "little" playground where there were several toddlers enjoying themselves, without even a warning that there were little kids and they might need to be careful. So, of course, they weren't.

I watched an older, bigger boy shove Madeline out of the way, while his mother stood there and watched without even batting an eye.

I have seen parents bring toys from home to the playground (I know. Why come to the playground equipment if you're going to bring your own entertainment, right??) and then get all huffy puffy when other children, curious as toddlers are, come over to play with the toys.

Now, please don't think I'm one of those "My-child-is-such-a-victim" parents. She's not. Fortunately, she didn't inherit my MOGS (Made of Glass Syndrome). I see her smack head first into the dining room table or bannister, fall down, get up, and say, "I OK." Therefore, I assume it's fine to take her to the parks and let her go down the twisty slide as many times as she wants.
And, I want her to fight her own battles. I just don't think she's ready to fight her battles against older kids yet, and I don't understand why a mom would let her bigger child bully a toddler without saying anything.

So, I ask again...is it just me?? Am I missing something here? Do all the rules that apply in classrooms and playdates at home fly out the window when we go to a public park? I haven't been a mom for very long, so if I'm expecting too much from other mommies, just let me know.

And, yes, I realize that I harp on manners a lot. I just cannot abide or understand rudeness, and it bugs me when I see parents not only demonstrating rude behavior, but refusing to correct rude behavior in their kids.

Lord, please let me be the kind of parent who teaches her children to treat others the way they want to be treated. Amen.

5:41 and 3:03

After almost a week of successful big girl bed sleeping, with cute 6:45 am wake-up calls of "Heyyo!", it finally happened.

Yesterday, she came into our room at 5:41.

Today it was 3:03.

"Daddy! I big girl bed!"

Yep. But, it's still dark outside.

We're open to suggestions, people!

Happy Autumn!

It's here! It's finally here!! Bring on the pumpkins, apples, and pecan pies! Shower me with rich hues of red, brown, yellow, and orange! Cool the air, shorten the daylight hours, and let's curl up and watch God's earth prepare to renew itself again!

I think I'll celebrate with a pumpkin spice latte and bake some applesauce cookies.

Happy Fall, everyone!

Um...help?

As you saw in my last post, we have a big girl toddler bed. Woohoo! The room is starting to come together, and as soon as it looks the way I want it, I'll post some more pictures.

By come together, I mean that we have moved Madeline's toys and most of her clothes into her new room. Her familiar sheets and quilt are on the bed. She has her books, her piggy bank, her dolls, etc. Everything is familar and comfortable.

She likes the bed. When we saw it in the store, she climbed onto it and said, "Bed! Go night-night!" So, we bought it and brought it home for her. She likes to play on it, put her baby dolls to bed in it, and occasionally to pretend she's "going night-night" in it.

The problem is, she won't actually go night-night there. She has napped in the new bed twice - once for thirty minutes, and once for forty-five. Now, however, she refuses to sleep there at all. Any attempts to put her in her big girl bed are met with whining, tearful protests.

All the experts on the websites recommend moving to the new bed a couple of months before the new baby arrives. Well, the new baby is due in four weeks and we have made no progress.

I'm open to any and all suggestions for how to make this transition easier. I can't ever remember Madeline having a hard time with any other transition, but this one is not sitting well with her.

Help!

Just a Couple of Pictures

Our big girl bedroom is still in the works, but it's starting to come together!

Somebody woke up with hair like Mommy's. Bless her heart.

Baby Boy Has a Name!

David (probably James) Head will be arriving in just a few short weeks. We can't wait to meet this little mover and shaker face to face!

I had a very promising visit with Dr. T this morning. I'm 1.5 cm dilated, 70% effaced, and she could feel his little head. So, it looks like we're all set to go, whenever David is ready. Oh, and if you don't know what any of that means, chances are you probably don't want to.

I'm just glad we've finally agreed upon and announced a moniker for the young lad. I know he's ready to meet us, too, but sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.

(I know, I know. But, it's been a while since I've gotten in a classic TV allusion. Cue the piano!)

A Couple More

I wanted to add some things to the last post, not only because I'm convinced that the entire world (or, again, the 5 people who actually read this blog) think my child is the most adorable creature they've ever seen and are completely mesmerized by every word she says - like we are.
OK, chances are you probably love your own kid more than you love mine, and I don't blame you. But, thanks for indulging me, anyway.

Truth be told, this blog serves as a baby book for me. Although she has an actual baby book and I do occasionally write in it, I'm more likely to record her milestones and activities here and then go back and record them in ink later.

When Madeline sees or tastes something, she will tell us, "I yike it," or "I don' yike it." When it comes to food, "I yike it" is usually preceded by "Mmmmm, good!"

"I do it!" Our new couches are a little taller than the old one, which makes it slightly more difficult for a not-quite-two-year-old to climb up and sit with us. However, if I try to help her, she's probably going to tell me, "I do it!" or "I got it." She also says it sometimes when I try to help her up the stairs or out of her stroller.

It's not uncommon for our Sweet Pea to see a sign or billboard and point out what's on it. For instance, on our way to Nashville, Madeline piped up from the back seat, "Waffle! Waffle!" It took us a minute to realize we were approaching a billboard for a restaurant advertising their breakfast special. She especially likes to point out letters, even though she only knows a few of them. She surprised me the other day when we were reading her alphabet book and she said, "O. Owl." And, she was right!

Finally, and probably the most telling, she recognizes the Starbucks logo. When she sees it anywhere, she says, "Mommy coggee." No, that's not a typo. She replaces the "f" sound in coffee with the "g" sound. The point is, she recognizes that green circle with the lady in the middle and she knows what beverage comes in that cup. That's my girl!

More Stuff My Kid Says

Madeline has become quite the little chatterbox. Well, OK, she always was, but now she says little mini-sentences and has gotten so much better at communicating her wants and needs. She fascinates me with things she says, sometimes because it's funny and sometimes because I have no idea where she heard something or how she picked it up so quickly.

For instance, depending on the outfit and whether or not it has a skirt, she may or may not twirl it around and say, "I so piddy!" or "I so cute!" No body image issues for this beautiful girl!

She likes to make lists of people she knows and tell me what they do. "Mommy tee-tee in potty; Daddy tee-tee in potty; PaPa tee-tee in potty..." Get the idea? To that end, she is also pretty nosy and likes to know what people are doing, real or animated. "What Daddy doo-eeng?" "What Mommy doo-eeng?" "What Mickey doo-eeng?"

I think it's kind of sweet when it's night-night time and she doesn't want to go to bed and she snuggles in really close with Dan so he can read her another "tory." And, speaking of books, there was a period of about a week or two when she kept saying a word and I could not figure out what she was saying to save my life. It sounded like the first syllable of shower. And, she would say it over and over again: "Sha-oo. Sha-oo!" I thought the kid was speaking Mandarin and I was about to be incredibly impressed. But, I just didn't understand so we were both getting frustrated with each other and she wasn't getting whatever "Sha-oo" was.
Self. She was saying "self." She says it when I'm trying to do something for her and she wants to do it all by herself, like look at a book or get her own shoes.

Dan is pretty excited that she has invented her own words for football (puttball) and baseball (bahball). In fact, just this morning, she was pointing to the TV and asking for both Mickey and SuperWhy, because those are her current favorites. The conversation went something like this:

"Mickey! Why! Mickey! Why!"
"Do you want to watch Mickey?"
"Nooo!"
"Do you want to watch SuperWhy?"
"Nooo!"
"Well, what do you want to watch?"
"Puttball!"
Are you kidding me with this one???

Other phrases she has recently added to her repertoire are:
"Nope! I don't sink so!"
"Where Daddy?" usually followed by, "Daddy pizza?"
"PaPa has a hat!"
"We go Mayin's house!" (Mayin = Madeline)

I'm sure there are many others that just aren't popping into my head right now. I really love this kid.

Now, I must go. Madeline is napping like an angel and Pretty in Pink is on. I could, and probably should, go put laundry away and vacuum the living room. But...Pretty in Pink is on!

P.S. I guess Baby D____'s name is officially official, since we have had it monogrammed on a pillow, but Dan still wants me to keep it to myself. I'm not really sure why, but he doesn't want to reveal the baby's name until some joyous day in mid-October. I, however, have a very difficult time keeping a secret.

It's Football Time!

Yes, folks! It begins today. Today marks the beginning of wearing houndstooth, eating football food, and hearing "Yea, Alabama" every Saturday.

Now, we all know that I don't even do a good job of pretending to understand how football works. If you say the words first down in my presence, my mind will automatically go to the soft feathers on a baby duck. But, I looooove this time of year. Don't tell Dan, but I secretly like it when he watches football on TV (in moderation). I don't get why he watches a game more than once, or why he feels the need to recap the game he just attended with his friends that he was just sitting with, but he probably doesn't understand how I can watch the Harry Potter movies 100 times without getting bored, either.

I like the sound of marching bands, particularly ones of the Million Dollar variety. I like the noise of a crowd that's high on adrenaline. I want my alma mater to win. It's a school spirit thing. And, perhaps more importantly, I really like nachos. With jalapenos. And sour cream. Oh, sorry. I had a pregnancy-induced digression.

So, bring on football season. And, while I know that my saying "Roll Tide" is a little like Dan wearing a Beatles t-shirt, I'll say it anyway. Roll Tide!

Welcome!

Welcome to the new and improved blog! I guess whether it's really improved remains to be seen, but it is new.

I made the switch for several reasons, and I could launch into a tangent about how wordpress has all kinds of doohickies and whatnots that I will never use, which is true. But, honestly, I just wanted a pretty blog. Wordpress isn't pretty.

So, sit back, relax, grab a cup of coffee and a scone, and enjoy the random nonsense that pours freely from my head - now with pretty backgrounds and fonts I can change!

Yes.

I borrowed this from a friend who posted it on facebook, but there's just something about this article that makes me want to share it.

http://www.ucc.org/feed-your-spirit/daily-devotional/spiritual-but-not-religious.html#.Tl6UH29H6K8.facebook

Yep.

Only 23 More Days, Folks!

No, I'm not talking about my due date. We still have a bit longer for that. Yesterday was my 32 week appointment and all is well. We're still right on track for a mid-October delivery. Baby D_____ sounds strong and healthy, thanks be to God!

I'm talking about the 23-day wait we have until...

[caption id="attachment_1248" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Oooooh!"][/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_1255" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Ahhhhhh!"][/caption]

Now, before you go reminding me that I don't live in a place that looks like these pictures during wonderful, glorious autumn, or that Alabama's actual seasonal fall weather only lasts for a few weeks, I'll thank you to let me have my delusions for a little while. I'm OK with that, as long as I can still put on my sweaters and boots, mull my apple cider, put some pumpkins outside my front door, and put icing on something that contains cinnamon.

So, if you'll excuse me, I need to go look up the word "mull" before I try to do it to an apple.

The Times, They Are A-Changin'.

I usually save my posts on thankfulness for November, but I have some thanks to dole out, so bear with me.

Through the magic of Facebook, I recently had a chance to reminisce with a childhood friend about the way we used to sit side by side with a Sears catalog (or JC Penney, or whatever our parents had on hand) and pick out all the stuff we were going to have when we grew up and had our own husbands, children, and homes. Needless to say, I do not have the country blue  decor with geese and ganders that I wanted in 1985. I was eight, and it never crossed my mind that styles might change in the time it would take for me to grow up.

For instance, in 1985, I assumed that when I grew up and became a mom, I would look something like this (the ladies, not the creepy guy gawking at them):

I thought that because, well, that's what everyone's mom looked like, right? That's just what a mom looked like. Well, except for mine. My parents looked like this until 1997:

Um, yeah. I don't look like the JC Penney ad seen here. I also do not look like contemporary ads that detail what a woman in 2011 should look like.

When I was eight, I assumed that when I was a grown up hauling my kids to school, I would be hauling them in one of these (because, again, that's what many of the moms who came to pick up their kids at my elementary school drove):



Hey! What do you know? I actually do drive a Honda Accord! However, times have changed and the general consensus today is that, in order to keep your children safe and be a good mom, you have to drive one of these:



This is for one child. You must add an entire extra row of seats for each child, so that by the time you have three or four, you morph into Shirley Jones and start chauffering your brood in a multi-colored bus from gig to gig.

Do you know what I realized a few years ago, that I didn't know in 1985? I'm a square peg who is never going to fit into a perfectly coiffed, bone thin, expensive brand wearing, football loving, potato salad eating, Top 40 music listening, ginormous SUV driving, McMansion dwelling, round hole. I think those are fine choices for those who do fit in somewhere. I just, well, don't.

Please understand that I am not judging the choices of those who do enjoy the things I mentioned. It's just that I spent a good portion of my life - most of it, actually - trying to fit into one particular place or another by doing what other people did, and I just never quite felt comfortable doing that. I used to think that if I didn't become like them, I would never be normal and my life would never be complete.

 It has taken me until now to be OK with admitting that I'm shy and say dumb things when I'm nervous, or that I miss my Doc Martens and really don't care if someone else likes my haircut or not. If you like potato salad, good for you. But, I don't like it and I don't have to like it just because everybody likes potato salad and I'm a freak if I don't.

But, the awesome thing is that I have friends who don't care what I wear, what I drive, where I live, or whether I have the same things they have. God sent them to me, and I am so thankful for them.

I have an incredible husband who knew I was a square peg when he fell in love with me. He knows I'm quirky, and that I'm never going to fit the mold of the...um...whatever the Southern equivalent of a Stepford wife is. He loves me. Not my waistline, not my hairstyle, not my clothes or my make up. ME. He loves my nose in a book, my stupid questions when he's watching sports, my picky eating habits, and my soapbox rants about education and theology. He makes me glad I'm the misfit I am, and I don't tell him enough how thankful I am that God chose us for each other.

I serve a God who does not give two figs whether I drive a Honda or a BMW, whether I wear my best dress to worship on Sunday or my favorite jeans, or whether I went to Alabama or Auburn. (I know some of you are looking that last one up. I promise, it's true!)

In 1985, I wanted to grow up to be a teacher, wife, and mother. It's 2011. Well, look at that. 3 for 3.

Not bad for a square peg, huh?

"Miling" for the Camera

I know I already posted this on facebook, but I absolutely love this picture.

It was so sweet. Madeline was playing like the good girl she is, and she saw me pick up my phone to - of course - take a picture. I mean, she looked so stinkin' cute in her striped pants and purple bow.

Anyway, SOMEONE has had her picture taken one too many times. She looked so excited and said, "I mile! I mile, Mommy, I mile!" Then, she showed me all her sweet little teeth as she "miled" for me to capture her beautiful image.



I love this kid.

Happy Birthday, Dan!

Happy, Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband from your adoring wife and precious babies. We love you to the moon and back!