tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65528509956494855162024-03-05T15:50:49.434-05:00Michelle has ThoughtsMichellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-81784960456095836652011-06-06T22:01:00.010-04:002011-06-07T22:09:31.332-04:00Wanna know how it happened?<div align="center">Hey there! I've missed blogging. I always think of things to write in the wee morning hours but never get around to writing these things down. So finally after four weeks do you want to hear the labor story?<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center">Well as some of you might remember our due date came and went. Six days to be exact. And that's because we decided to go with an induction on May 10th. I've heard some crazy induction stories, most of which didn't end that well so I was a little nervous about it. Thankfully in our situation everything went super smooth.<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615305503763546818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlewgsWu9CbApHbPrwkJ08tkr39_fCFyzQViaWbAz6mqmlbPWfS-s60s3-uH7dNkB7Mp9L8mc8jUVKeDZAfLLIVw54ICr0ZNFj9n2NRRPQHc1nYU1eYcP1AYhwlkp-nd1Ddqe2BYLXWk/s320/DSC04396.JPG" /><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center">We arrived at the hospital at 5 am which wasn't really that early to me since I had been tossing and turning the whole night before in anticipation. We did all the preliminary stuff and then started the pitocin around 7:30 am. My friend, nurse and amazing midwife Michelle Overby was working that day and switched with another nurse so she could help deliver Brielle. I was so excited to have her there because she helped deliver our first child Isaac. She is so calming and amazing. </div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center">After an hour or so I was having contractions according to the monitor but I couldn't really feel them at that point. Blake and I decided to put in Julie and Julia on his computer to help pass some of the time. I love that movie! We got about half way through before the contractions started to pick up.</div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center">Our midwife Lisa came in at 11 and checked me and I was only 3 cm dilated. (I was already 2cm when I went in that morning) I was pretty discouraged at that point. Mostly because I felt like I wasn't progressing quickly and I was nervous it was going to end up being a long process like it was with Isaac. My labor and delivery with Isaac was around the 36 hour mark. Not one of my most delightful experiences.</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615306950815108034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-kUIhxkiyQeWiyzmQ4kckSI5A7ToJJlnJCif5tPlQGjiuYtycFlepACR6-wTKqfp8ZUzbHrZ3n0L0bHll0S6L8ohYo6L7S51DtDyFIRhTgcJRIoNJD_3VHY1gQVSk1gBi0UwnpfB96u0/s320/DSC04422.JPG" /><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Lisa and Michelle<br /><br /></span></em>Anyhow, shortly after my water broke on its own and then things really got intense. I mean intense. I remember thinking distinctly to myself "this is probably gonna need to be our last child. I don't think I can do this again". I'm sure I thought that with Isaac and just don't remember . :)<br /><br /></p>Just before 1 I looked at Michelle and told her I couldn't do it anymore. I didn't know how far I was dilated but I couldn't stand the pain anymore. I just wanted the epidural and I asked her to order it. I also asked to be checked even though we weren't going to do it again for another hour or so. At that point my legs were shaking and I thought I was going to die. :)<br /><br />Shortly, after that Lisa came in and she told me I was 8 cm! I couldn't believe in two hours I had progressed that fast. I was a little shocked and immediately requested the epidural once more! Much to my dismay, I was informed it was "too late". At that point I may or may not have blurted out some minor four letter words that would not be appropriate in this post.;)<br /><br /><br />It wasn't long after that I started pushing at 1:30. Brielle was born 1o min later at 1:40. That's a vast improvement from 2 hours with Isaac! Shoooweee!<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 256px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 375px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615308455863466882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jLrAX0pHe3AJ1fYZtwZECBjWupWSyLfv07zwT9ZseLTDOqDNdsmC7mKwM5bCqaauuF8r7CETEGXeeC4CoeN1gpYEQ5bbBMBk_heojXP-4WHcDXxZpPMMxmmgZR886pms-_Bxai8f_b0/s320/DSC04421.JPG" /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Brielle Colette Dameron 7 lbs 2 oz, 19 inches</span></em></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Brielle means "strength in God" and Colette means "victory"</span></em></p><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">I just couldn't believe after it was all over how well it had gone. Many of you are familiar with what we have walked through as a family over the past year and a half. I am so thankful to Jesus for how he worked everything out. For months after our miscarriage I just kept thinking about fear and fear of death. I felt like that was the moment it all came to the surface and that it was a very negative thing. Now in hind sight a year and half later I see that moment as the beginning of my freedom from fear. That experience has made me look at issues I had stuffed down for years and maybe most of my life thus far. In the process God has truly worked everything together for good. A part of me will always wonder what that child would have been like but the other part of me is at peace with the way our family is growing now. </span></p><br /><br /><p align="center">In the weeks leading up to Brielle's delivery I kept coming across passages about Gods faithfulness and His kindness. I really do feel like He has redeemed whats been lost. He is faithful. He is good.</p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-72686875541807928672011-04-17T21:36:00.007-04:002011-04-17T23:36:51.830-04:00Brielle Might Just Be Like Her MommaThis past thursday I went to the doctor for my 37 week check up. What I thought would be routine turned into more excitement than I was looking for. I saw the midwife and she checked the heartbeat, all was good there. Then she checked Brielle's position and to my somewhat surprise she was head up near my right rib. Once she discovered that, she left the room to go talk to the doctor and see if I needed an ultrasound. So anyway long story short the scan comfirmed it and the next thing I knew I was in the doctors office scheduling a time to go to the hospital the next day for a version (try to turn the baby). <br /><div align="center"></div>I left the office feeling slightly ovehwhelmed and wishing that I had brought the hubby to that appointment. I had that underlying feeling like everything was gonna be okay but the other half of me was freaking out a little bit. Mostly because I figured it probaly doesn't feel pleasant and there was a risk of having an emergency c-section or the babys heartbeat dropping. <br /><div align="center"></div>So anyway, I went home and told Blake about everything and then he had to leave to go to VCM. The Lord was so gracious that night. Isaac was the best he's been in weeks and so compliant, even when it came to bed time. I spent some time in the Word that night and by the time Blake got home I felt so at peace. <br /><div align="center"></div>After midnight I wasn't allowed to have any water and I could have a light snack at 6 am. My appointment wasn't until noon the next day. It was tough going that long without water! :) I just took that day a step at a time. That morning I had read a verse in Psalms that was so simple but stuck with me all day. "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord". I kept repeating it to myself and telling Jesus His word said if I trusted in Him I would be blessed. I didn't know what the outcome was going to be, but I knew I had to trust Him. I just took it step by step that day. <br /><div align="center"></div><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596751005833852674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHn1fN4KXDxmnlnu6dE4k8pzTC3JngsU27P_qg2241-KBgFsk91mmigM6__kymyjLZAm2A7deN-tlVjuO-WmE7H0gQxKvFdGGtQc_JdeMm9RF9Bcn8fVZXaF_lyV9gx6ALaccDZfXtNsY/s320/DSC04342.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"> Waiting for the doctor to come in!</span></em><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"> </span></em></p><br /><p><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></p><br /><p><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596752990265041874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvX5W35kbZiB1hWuIeF8AMUYZwriDIUlQW_Stb7VaAL6ZvR6grH21cMBiDOHRpPAp6HFI_IJJf_57oOG0pLo-Sv2XHLq5YuLp7FXrOeTgf7mF_ZJ5WWiU0bOHTpiGDObPDcl2l6lT_IKQ/s320/DSC04346.JPG" /></span></em></p><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">The hubby hanging out with me. I tried to freeze him out of the room :) It was good training for the big day! Better dress warm Babe!</span></em></div><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><br /><div align="left"></span></em>Looking back Jesus covered every single detail. My friend Michelle Overby happened to be working that day in the L&D unit so she met me at the door and helped me check in. (She helped deliver Isaac too) We went to the room after that and I got changed and hooked up to some monitors. The nurse had to move the baby heartbeat monitor about 3 times because Brielle kept moving. At one point I felt some intense pressure on the left side for a couple minutes and then it passed. Five minutes later the doctor came in and felt for Brielle. He looked at me and said "I think she's head down!" Sooo, he did another ultrasound and sure enough, she turned head down! It turns out Brielle is a lot like her Momma. A little stubborn at times, but does the right thing at the last minute! :)</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596752076931943490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNk97QWH69zjSU4QJsx4SBGb3TRDOg-A-vTfAYAbr2Ji3mmP5EWQeqL9fJ8RBfPmzapkz8WMIAU0VqzaAbJn4tbxVv6VPlpMEsMmzrbbjSHc_0T1x7sUpCaSsuVibYN_B3cgyobSBdvo/s320/DSC04347.JPG" /> <br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">One happy camper! I get to go home and Michelle being the saint she is brought me the most delicous cup of apple juice and ice!</span></em></p><br /><p align="left"><span style="color:#000000;">The doctor told us Jesus answered our prayers and for Blake to take me out to lunch! :) I just want to say thanks to all of you that prayed for us. I felt so at peace and I am so thankful for the discomfort Jesus spared me from.</span></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-35032275950323543612011-03-14T22:50:00.006-04:002011-03-14T23:35:28.164-04:00March MadnessWell it's not March Madness in the way you would normally picture it (I'm not an avid sports fan) :)<br />However,March is a busy month for us, and it's only half over! Or shall I say it's already half over!<br /><br />This past week ECU had their spring break so I took advantage of Blake being a little more "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">available</span>". We cleaned out the spare bedroom, made some room for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Brielle</span>, painted furniture and moved Isaac to his big boy bed. We also got our taxes done and Blake was able to get some school work done as well. In the middle of the week we went up to Raleigh to take Isaac to the Marbles Kids Museum. He had a blast!<br /><br /><em><span style="color:#33cc00;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584135194599001890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjxk2pmZutpj10d_nzaXp4btikKXeL9E2f5hgwRpYqYwtNxeahSrUGb-ttgl1UD1jMNBZJcLzFFf20bvnolUMhD71q5VF1zmIYXSX9x4tS-Xv4mT1sqqfKzvvJndP1FoHVWSOZh00pB0/s320/DSC04275.JPG" /></span></em><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Isaac catching a fish! This was probably the longest he stood still in the 4 hours we were there. He was busy!</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></em><br /> </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584135614150387058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiLvsFYRMyF-EKF-lkPtBBP1MGymmxrlej1shGVTQ85fh1vP5sCM-C5ouWniYVQaDz_MP3prAlk-LceRKsv8IQrAvtEF59jW3Lqm5IWxs3tXglht09W5eGzuKpmW7RI8XkpRgUMVcP18/s320/DSC04267.JPG" /> <p align="center"><br /><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">Helping Daddy sand his "big boy bed" so we could paint it. </span></em></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#33cc00;"></span></em></p><span style="color:#000000;">On Wednesday of last week Katie came by and helped me paint a tree on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Brielle's</span> wall. I had seen this tree on the Pottery Barn website and loved it. It was a decal, only costing $165 or something like that. Absolutely ridiculous. Katie painted the same tree for $6! That's right! The cost of pink and green paint samples. We had everything else we needed! Katie is an art student at ECU and is a valuable part of our college ministry at ECU, she did such a great job! Thanks Katie!!</span><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584137241306520642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpYFMAhXCQaslHKqTBtoWYOCqi6Qaq4256OFzdmO0UNO1vktcwSS68KZyOQlrsrsjujsP4TYcmvPBo9SqWBy-bqJdqd7IEej-mn6y8d2-VHRczEvrcGdtTo6lxkfSfigqKI5Wb801DIk/s320/DSC04287.JPG" /></p><br /><br /><p>At the end of spring break on Saturday I threw Blake a surprise 30<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> birthday party. We had a few friends over and had a cookout and played corn hole. It was a good time. Happy Birthday Babe, I love you!<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584139415853409682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4O3PitMrPaC5GvV21YKvL0n4DUHkmsvgJGbkPYtUf3Lr2bHWuoolnu7cAKamJlA7Z8aYIHeq9OlSBD-edKYU3DCF9zdBCsbx3jIpum2osKjxd0z6ucldl0j2EzYeFHejr2KYe2RFWPXM/s320/DSC04291.JPG" /></p><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">It's hard to believe he's 30! :)<br /></span></div></em><p>And lastly, it seems as though Isaac has just blossomed over the past couple weeks into a "little man"! He is always cracking us up, and of course at times trying our patience. :) Here are some things you might here him say:</p><p>"oh no, what happened" usually coming from the other room and not a good sign!</p><p>"funny, mommy, funny" says this with a smile on his face when he knows he's not supposed to be doing something.</p><p>"why"</p><p>"Excuse me mommy" and even the unsolicited "please or thank you" at times!</p><p>He plays ball with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vandy</span> and tells him "drop it" and when <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vandy</span> does Isaac says "Good boy" They have become such good friends. At least once a day Isaac tries to ride <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vandy</span> like a "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Forsie</span>!!" (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Horsie</span>)</p><p>When he gets stuck on a phrase or question and you don't catch it the first time you will have at least 15 more opportunities to hear it again because he will repeat it for you.</p><p>And lastly, I have found myself saying something I never thought I would this early. . ."Because I said so!" :)</p><p>This age has it's trials but it's also so wonderful. I love how much he is becoming his own little person and becoming better at communicating with us!<br /></p><br /><br /><p></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-69291225781686012972011-03-03T22:15:00.002-05:002011-03-03T22:30:01.838-05:00Thank God For All I MissedWhen I was driving in the car the other day I heard this song and just thought I would share it. The song is by Darius Rucker (You know. . . Hootie from the Blowfish). :)<br /><br /><br /><iframe height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bjKFb-4t_vg?fs=1" frameborder="0" width="480" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /><br />I know in high school and college I was devestaed many times by relationships that didn't work out. Now looking back I am so happy they didn't. Cause just as Hootie says "Thank God for all I missed, cause it led me here to this!". I'm so thankful for my husband. He is more than I could have ever hoped for as a best friend and life companion. And of course I'm so thankful for our little man and baby on the way! Thank you Jesus for your many blessings! Your perspective and plan for my life was much better than what I had in mind!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-10266748324632813442011-02-22T21:47:00.002-05:002011-02-22T22:25:25.104-05:00Don't Fret My PetLately, for my quiet time in the morning I've been reading in my One Year Bible. This in itself is an accomplishment, simply because I usually don't make it out of January before I fall behind! :) I think this is the third year I have attempted to do the One Year thing. So hopefully I will be able to continue to follow through!<br /><br />Anyway, I came across a passage in Psalms the other morning that really spoke to me.<br /><br /><em>Psalm 37:8-9</em><br /><em>"Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;</em><br /><em>do not fret-it leads only to evil.</em><br /><em>For evil men will be cut off, but those</em><br /><em>who hope in the Lord will inherit the land."</em><br /><br />I knew that 'fret' meant to worry but I looked it up for a further definition. <br /><br /><em><strong>Fret</strong></em>: to be worried, irritated, agitated about something. To eat or gnaw into; corrode.<br /><br />I love this Psalm but had never spent much time thinking about these two particular verses. I usually just read right over them not paying much attention to the meaning. I love that "do not fret- it leads only to evil". Repeatedly the Bible gives us verses to not worry. This leads to evil. Why? Probably because when we worry it communicates that we don't trust Jesus or we think we could handle it better than the way Jesus would work it out. OR we doubt that Jesus will come through for us. In any case all roads of worry lead to evil. It's good to be reminded we need to 'hope' in the Lord and when we do we will inherit the land. We don't need to trust in our own abilities or accomplishments, just trust in Him.<br /><br />Over the past years Blake has said a phrase to me that you've probably heard before: "Don't fret my pet" He says it as a joke when he can see I'm starting to get worked up about something. And so after reading those verses it reminded me of this phrase. Sometimes we just need Jesus to spell it out for us, "Don't fret my pet". <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Everything's</span> gonna be okay, if you just trust me.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-68964927520554336022011-01-10T16:48:00.005-05:002011-01-10T17:36:43.577-05:00Martha's HandbookHappy New Year! I hope you had a great holiday season. I know we did. We had a great time with family and friends AND enjoyed our white Christmas playing in the snow. I also enjoyed the precious moments I had to do nothing and simply stared at the wall. Does anyone else enjoy that? Sitting in absolute quiet, staring at the wall, letting your thoughts just whisk away to any old place.<br /><br /><br />I have had lots of thoughts lately, but to be honest, I've been too lazy to sit at my computer and write them down! Maybe in the weeks to come. I've got a few more weeks left in my 2nd trimester and the "nesting" seems to have kicked into high gear. I better get stuff done while I'm crazy! :) You know all pregnant women are crazy right? It's the hormones. Moms with newborns are crazy too. That's due to hormones AND lack of sleep. Just to clear things up. Moving on. . .<br /><br /><br /><br />So back to this whole "nesting" thing. My house has actually been consistently tidy these past few weeks. To be honest I'm a little freaked out. I've wondered to myself "Am I ok? Can I really make this last?" I think I've finally gotten into a routine that is working in our family. I was greatly encouraged by that until I remembered the wee little one that will make her debut in early May! :) All well. We'll enjoy it while it lasts.<br /><br /><br /><br />When I was at my moms house last year for Christmas I borrowed a book from her called Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook. I found some great bits a pieces in there to keep in mind when cleaning. I remembered that book when I was at the library yesterday and it just so happened they had it, so I checked it out!<br /><br /><br /><br />Last year when I looked through the book I told Blake I could start a blog about it like Julie and Julia. I could work my way through the book cleaning my house over the course of the year. Blake of course looooved the idea. And then I thought to myself "I have a one year old, am I completely delusional?". I will have to save that crazy challenge for another time. I also forgot to mention the book is 744 pages long from cover to cover. Like I said, delusional.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560685116677738258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdX3MyLug963paRj-I9xakOrX2hDrQZgXQ04xmfT9w7vvMFNqDsI9xvocTtJPy_hFjGhTdB9sXXd8zri7N07HyEaewszzJ8Mn3suqKFAh8BGRsZ6KTcfH9txlrxLcQ1lXjoG__fip-U_k/s320/martha+handbook.jpg" />So I thought I would leave you with one helpful list from her book. Make sure to read this list with Martha's voice in your mind, it's more entertaining that way ;)<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">SIX THINGS TO DO EVERY DAY:</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">1. Make the Bed:</span> Tidiness begets tidiness. A crisply made bed makes the whole room seem more orderly, which makes it less likely that you'll let other things-such as clothes and papers-pile up around it.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">2. Manage Clutter:</span> Whenever you leave a room, take a quick look around for anything that isn't where it should be. Pick it up and put it where it belongs. Insist that everyone in the household do the same. ** Yeah, can you see me "insisting" on my 2 year old to constantly put up his belongings :)**<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">3. Sort the Mail:</span> Take a few minutes to open, read, and sort mail as soon as you bring it inside. Trash junk mail, drop other mail into one of four in-boxes: personal correspondence, bills, catalogs, and filing.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">4. Clean as you Cook:</span> Instead of filling the sink with pots and dishes, was them or put them in the dishwasher as you prepare a meal.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">5. Wipe Up Spills While They're Fresh:</span> Whether it's tomato sauce on the cooktop or makeup on the counter, almost anything is faster and easier to remove if you attend to it immediately.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">6. Sweep the Kitchen Floor:</span> Every evening once you've finished washing up after dinner, sweep the floor. This will keep tough-t0-clean dirt and grime from building up, which will make the weekly mopping much quicker. **Martha assumes I mop my floor once a week. Martha assumes too much**Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-43969528502609326692010-12-09T15:16:00.004-05:002010-12-09T15:59:04.390-05:00What's in a nameIf you haven't heard the news yet we found out last Tuesday that we are having a baby girl! We are so excited. It's such a blessing to think about having one of each,the best of both worlds.<br /><br />We had tossed around a bunch of names and the day we went to the doctor we still weren't sure. It's kind of funny because after the ultrasound all the names we thought of for a girl went out the window. They just didn't seem right. It's funny because the same thing happened with Isaac. I know you don't see the baby in person but it's like when you see them on that screen they become way more real to you. There is an actual little person in there being formed and fashioned by God. <br /><br />You can't just throw any old name on that baby. I can't help but always think about Abraham and Sarah in the Old Testament when I think about names. I mean, doesn't it seem like names are really important to God. I believe they speak of who God wants us to become. Abram's name was changed to Abraham which means "father of many nations". Sarai's name which meant quarrelsome or argumentative was changed to Sarah which meant "Princess". Aren't those awesome meanings.<br /><br />I always think to myself, "I would never want to name my child something that means 'bitterness', or 'despair'. Don't get me wrong, I know God is redemptive and all that, I just want to start our kids out on a positive note if it's in our power. :) And I also know that some people don't feel the same way about this. That's okay, we can still be friends. I'm not trying to throw my convictions on anyone else. However, this is my blog, and after all it is called "Michelle has Thoughts", and well, these are my thoughts on the matter. :)<br /><br />In any case, back to the matter at hand. All this to say after some searching, praying and looking at meanings we have decided on a name. Just a first name. The middle will come later.<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc66cc;"><strong><em>Brielle Dameron</em></strong>.</span> Who we have affectionately been referring to as "Baby Bri" around here.<br /><br />You want to know the meaning? It means "God is my strength". It's derived from the name Gabriel, you know, like the angel. :)<br /><br />We also chose it for another reason. The meaning is so appropriate for our family as a whole during this season. You've heard me say before that this past year has been the hardest in our lives. However, we have to look to the good that has been accomplished in it. That good is that God has taught us to rely on Him and His strength. We would never have made it through with out Him.<br /><br />So, with Isaac which means "He laughs", it was fitting at that time in our lives because it was so happy. There is no experience like having your first child. The excitement, expectation and unknown all wrapped in a beautiful gift.<br /><br />It was timely for our family, and so our children become living stones. . . testimonies of God's faithfulness and all that He has done and continues to do in our lives. We will name her Brielle because God truly has taught us in this season to rely on His strength.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-78365005457464911302010-11-28T21:37:00.008-05:002010-11-28T22:19:28.238-05:00It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas<div align="center"> It seems like everyone I know took the opportunity to decorate their houses for Christmas this weekend. I love this time of year. Not so much the cold weather, I don't really like to be cold. But truth be told I don't really like the middle of summer either. I like to be "comfortable". :)</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">Anywho, we started the morning off with a breakfast of Eggnog Pancakes, bacon and eggs. Yum. Unfortunately, their was no bacon to be had for this prego lady, as I am still dealing with this reflux. </div><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544799881020519954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGuPa9gUX7lRQF6CNFQrkZIogEHyxXU2YB-7YKYFaVTcrb3cvrPJuqY54BL8X8aOW_eMZlLJr1ufs8-uQwV_BiwMdycf_sPK-4MDVZ1HHuF46vtLJMS7Q-C54xIlcO9hegnV01xalbBGE/s320/DSC04167.JPG" /></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">Here is a picture of the ingredients, pretty simple. I got the recipe from this </span></em><a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/eggnog-pancakes/Detail.aspx"><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">website</span></em></a><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">. I did two things different in the recipe. I subbed half of the all purpose flour for wheat flour, and used vegetable oil instead of clarified butter (only cause I didn't feel like messing with the whole butter thing).<br /><br /></span></em><br />Then we unpacked our attic, put up the tree and put up some of the decorations. After lunch the three of us went to a few antique shops. Seems a bit random, but we were looking for a "new" cabinet for the kitchen. We were in luck and stumbled upon a great piece. Thankfully it will hide my unending assortment of cookbooks that were starting to pile up. :)</div><div align="center"> </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544798999372175474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFs6audHwc715J-TTnEo1H_61n8BYlgvqOV-5ogN0vExwbckJ85S1YkpZtzmHpZpttHHGpw5en2ikgZgXQbb-jmmMU2n0fBwWuxGxwfUutkn_4T5JjqWmMrl_2828UbLVyoluZXHJKi0/s320/DSC04180.JPG" /> <p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">To fully appreciate this you would have needed to see the metal bakers rack that was here. Isaac will miss his indoor jungle gym.<br /><br /><br /></p></span></em>That afternoon I whipped up a batch of my Great Aunt Babe's Molasses Cookies. I wanted to start a tradition where we would have those family cookies and decorate the tree at night. So, that's what we did! Isaac lasted about 10 minutes. After we ran out of "horsies" to put on the tree he lost interest. That was also about the time the 3 cookies he ate kicked into full gear. He started running around the house and got Daddy to play chase with him. That left me decorating on my own. But I was okay with that. It was nice having the chaos in the background. I love my men being men.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544799336410958498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MsxmVC0hZC-9y8k3imdmhXGmYQZ3Yzb614TP-ykXTdgFC7oNlx5ro82QwIqxY-E973ygMxtOETar1Mn8_SbDa286JO6EVws_ZBQ6bSs3UVq6KXd-A8HLBNmrugXY9vNIAchICrhWK8M/s320/DSC04168.JPG" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544798619947346274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPMQD-L1QiDH2yi_1dfsvh2p73ruYRgl5AFd3c3iQY4DRp7Kn18iekFcjZs4rrbwa045UnRqRLIaFHCg5ZUy-uZ0yk6juipWDJExejLToUTngYgehiMnmmPVR6vK58zNF9JdkkUMVCng/s320/DSC04179.JPG" /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">TA-DAAAAH!</span></em></div><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544798287283604626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGmQLzbsLL8dJfL7t5rMIxSE9pUwwooqE63mfVhb6O0ic6gPAmQE0q5-seGNcSDvhaCR9G8bHaKz4cEqtiPxhWktc5XpI0MBfOm9S5fiUA7sk8iNCdO6ajxEfpnSV1F3qW8hYWtuRMKU/s320/DSC04182.JPG" /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">This decorating idea I was pretty stoked about. I bought this dessert stand back around Easter at the World Market. I didn't know what else to do with it other than serve food until I came across this </span></em><a href="http://www.thenester.com/2010/11/seasonal-decorating-for-every-season.html"><em><span style="color:#33cc00;">post</span></em></a><em><span style="color:#ff6600;"> found on The Nester blog. I'm super excited for what other creative ideas this may hold!<br /><br /><br /></span></em><br /><br /></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-18691666749111278622010-11-26T19:42:00.003-05:002010-11-26T20:01:53.208-05:00{Thanks}giving guest postI hope all of you had an amazing Thanksgiving with family and friends! I know I ate well and enjoyed being with my family. My mom and I even did a little Black Friday shopping today. I was mostly excited about the 1/2 price glider we found at <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Babys</span>-r-us. Major score!<br /><br />Today I am excited to share with you a post titled "Thankful in the Little Things". You can find it over on my friend Caroline Collie's blog <span style="color:#ff9900;"><a href="http://www.carolinecollie.com/?p=3978">From Africa, with Love</a></span>. She has been doing a week of posts on Thankfulness. So click on over there and take a look at all the contributions by various writers. I must say the variety and inspiration has been great. <br /><br />And make sure to check out <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Caroline's</span> blog after this week. She is an inspiring woman, mother and missionary in South Africa!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOANiCd5Peo1tEotmSNE2Ou727CNFKjD_x2uqbq0OkwM1FnKck0a5mkj79BxXU7pGJK-JNU5E4EFWqNufGM9lCJTv2CCNwOCRHE_mPZAdIjv5Hbqf2TvK682NdHA3JWEygstIoLdc0gE/s1600/THanksgiving.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544024408058850562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOANiCd5Peo1tEotmSNE2Ou727CNFKjD_x2uqbq0OkwM1FnKck0a5mkj79BxXU7pGJK-JNU5E4EFWqNufGM9lCJTv2CCNwOCRHE_mPZAdIjv5Hbqf2TvK682NdHA3JWEygstIoLdc0gE/s320/THanksgiving.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-2817795745536868602010-11-24T08:28:00.006-05:002010-11-24T09:27:15.040-05:00RefugeGood Morning! We are in Stella now for the holidays, and we are super excited to be here! I hope you are having a good week and that you have safe travels for Thanksgiving.<div><br /></div><div>This morning I was spending some time in the Word on my parents back porch and I came across a verse I wanted to share.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Psalm 62:8</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">"Trust in Him at all times, O people;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Pour out your heart before Him; </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span">God is a refuge for us."</span></div><div><br /></div><div>You can talk to Him about anything. Any situation. Any circumstance. Any fear. Any failure. Any concern. Any hurt. Any misunderstanding. Any insecurity. Any hope. Any joy. Any desire.</div><div><br /></div><div>He is a refuge for us. He is the perfect Friend, perfect Father, perfect Counselor that will listen to us. Our secrets are safe with Him. We should feel the liberty to open our hearts to Him. We have our Earthly confidants, which are much needed but there is nothing like the security and refuge of God. I want to encourage you today, if you haven't, pour our your heart to God. He wants to hear from you.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a Happy Thanksgiving!</div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-38169733103784000222010-11-14T21:51:00.004-05:002010-11-14T22:51:49.231-05:00A Year Has Come a GoneMost people would track their year based on the calendar year, and most years I do. But not this year. For some reason I've tracked it from the moment I miscarried last year November 15. I can't explain it but for some reason I thought if I could just make it to the same point the following year I would be okay. Mind you I knew I'd be "okay", it was just a mental hurtle for me. I had big hopes for 2010 when January rolled around, but then it was just one punch after the other. I 'm going somewhere with all of this and I hope not to depress you in the process;)<div><br /></div><div>The night that I miscarried last year started me on a journey that would forever change me and my perceptions of God. My second pregnancy started off kind of rocky with various symptoms that didn't look promising, but we pressed on with prayer. At 8 weeks I started bleeding and having contractions and for some reason unknown to me that baby hung on. We went and had an ultrasound and everything appeared fine. Again we praised Jesus for the miracle. Unfortunately, exactly two weeks later while I was visiting my mom with Isaac I miscarried around midnight. The miscarriage itself was a shock, I had no idea it would get worse. Shortly after, the bleeding was supposed to let up, but it didn't. I ended up on my mother's bathroom floor feeling like I was going to pass out and told her to call the ambulance. The medics got there and shortly after I was being hauled off to the hospital in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Morehead</span> City.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once we arrived they started sticking me with needles to get an IV going. My mom was in the room with me and shortly after Blake showed up around 1:30am (He had to drive from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Greenville</span>). The rest of that night is somewhat of a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">blur</span>. I remember people rushing in an out of the room and being poked and prodded constantly. It was the scariest moment of my life. I literally felt like I was floating, somewhere between life and death. I kept asking the nurses if I was going to live. At one point I remember looking up at Blake and wondering if he would have to raise Isaac on his own. I wish I could say that I had more faith in that moment, but the truth is I didn't. Blake took my hand and he said "Michelle, repeat after me. 'I will live and not die, and declare the works of the Lord.' And so I did, over and over until the point the Doctor in the room told me I was going to need to calm down. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>So, after an emergency D & C I had 2 blood transfusions and stayed in the hospital the whole next day. My mom and Blake stayed with me the whole time. Meanwhile, my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">stepdad</span>, the amazing man he is took care of Isaac the whole time. And to top it off our best friends, Kasey and Lee happened to be in town and were able to come to the hospital to visit me. We had already lost one life that night, and God was with us, He spared mine.</div><div><br /></div><div>I share this story not because I want you to feel sorry for me but because God deserves all the glory. He has done a great work in my life since that moment. After that moment when I would cry out to Jesus, I could feel Him like never before. This has been the hardest year of my life with our various trials, but God's presence has never been more tangible in my life. He has shown me my fears, doubts and misconceptions that I had about Him along the way. Sure, I had a lot of questions about the whole ordeal, who wouldn't? God doesn't mind our questions. And though I didn't find all the answers I wanted, I did find out who Jesus REALLY was in the process.</div><div><br /></div><div>He is someone I can believe. Someone I can count on. He will never leave me. He will always work things together for good. It was a hard lesson to learn but I'm glad He showed me about my fear of death. I want to be in control and mostly I don't want to be in pain. But those aren't my decisions to make. This past summer I did a Bible study on the Life of Paul, and it has done wonders on my perspective of life. That man endured so much for the sake of the Gospel, and he knew Jesus intimately.</div><div><br /></div><div>I know this is long and I need to wrap it up. I could write a book on all that Jesus has done in my life this year. So many stories of His faithfulness. So, I will just leave you with one.</div><div><br /></div><div>A year has come and gone, and this time we are 15 weeks pregnant and having a much healthier pregnancy. Three days before we found out we were pregnant I asked God for a word to stand on. This is what He gave me:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF9900;">Jeremiah 17:7-8 "Blessed is the woman who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF9900;">For she will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF9900;">And will not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought, nor cease to yield fruit."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF9900;"><br /></span></div><div>I took some liberties with the "she's" and "woman", but that was so that I could make it even more my word to stand on. It was just what I needed. Trust in the Lord. Just like the scripture says the heat did come. The first trimester was a constant battle in my mind. Even so much so, when I was 10 weeks, at our college retreat on the same day Blake and I had the same vision from the devil of me miscarrying. It was the craziest thing. The devil is not creative and we immediately recognized it for what it was. We prayed and the fear left. And though this last year has seemed like a drought in the natural, He was right, I am producing fruit and he or she will be here in May.<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-9356376788853313982010-11-01T17:13:00.014-04:002010-11-01T17:46:50.037-04:00Fall Festivities!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We had a fun and busy weekend! It started off Saturday by going to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Briley's</span> Pumpkin Patch outside <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Greenville</span>. I've been wanting to go for weeks, but we have literally had something planned every weekend this month and this was the last weekend they were open to the public! I'm just gonna sum up most of our weekend with pictures:</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHEnZ_q1sKQswloh6Nmhzw351Q-UVTBJO2sfmHiEAgCGDyd6vA6Z-QHi_EJVPW0yuXbpU62FqoHjNaL1TbCwn5YdFvDobBD9BUoooVBzceT3CQYlSqhjbdwrbRy-K5G1nppKvK5ogn8Y/s320/DSC04061.JPG" /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i>Isaac on his pony ride!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ISc3s_OFv1gjS_6NA3ncBM1Yv0gR8QKV6HW2l6nMleFl8Z1KBe6pKWq3h6iB3ZYfep2O-JoWvdZcHEhDm61_M9pYQFr3cGi5_-r83xIdcD7l1iVGYVfjTC_Cwu4l2t_8yNA-YEuCmgs/s320/DSC04075.JPG" /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i>Isaac was pretty upset we had to leave the tractor, so he pouted his way through the pumpkin patch :) All well, you can't win them all!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzNwse-eghYJHEmub08rgsAOZQDc6L-zpYvjI45kRQq8CPMgoD9LsrlUy0wgT651CU5SO4XUBvsk7epYjBn5vP5_vb57jJUkkamDkCsR4ySTOhsK-hVYj97YoUS3wy4JPOImGqEjEKNoc/s320/DSC04082.JPG" /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i>All is well in the world, back in view of the tractor!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">The next day for Halloween, instead of trick or treating, we went to Aunt Ally and Uncle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">TD's</span> for a Fall Party and cookout. It was lots of fun! All the kids dressed up except Isaac. He was supposed to be Thomas the Train, but lately he has been non-negotiable about putting on any type of costume! I was a little disappointed, but you can't force your kid to dress up, that would just be traumatic! :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmoV_ykPfG_Jyccn8uptVDwzp0oN15u5mgEJHBZzxBv3-jdbBSzQ7ssUYkBOJGRCRWJowuPU4_wfDuY6VTIyMRx3OvUNug9rC9gTbalqU12mFSSndVfNhJFWxnYHW1ehX52WtDbMLHQs/s320/DSC04106.JPG" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbgy-lSintCOtyHm4wYvURfjUht7-e6Vfpsrr5ahuDRm_3ddPxbLZQNzTu8FkVS6JZueatpky_p_-hLvMJuY5U2DOYCRJBlynZEESBssncESBoIjkd-aKKZ14w46H7QN0LVoX5vrPb0U/s320/DSC04123.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">Daddy dressed up instead to "encourage" Isaac to try it, but the mission was a fail. The picture on the right is all the kid</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">s. It's just not a good quality picture unless some of the kids are crying! :)</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33FF33;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">To finish up our weekend we took Isaac to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Winterville</span> Fire station so he could see all the "Big Trucks"! Our friend Jeremy, who is a fireman, offered to take us. Isaac ran around like a crazy man. He couldn't figure out what truck to look at because there were a few different ones.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnKnUCP8XtTU3m0ibuEhGrMQSuHobFsj-DEKa6EzIbS3gul0LIMRANIAMaV2gEm0yY1scbTX3kBT4ysQ_eNAzW_saDeKYotr6Uc6X3T31E97SzkFxezfLUsCj3qShrzTI1UbnIpgcMJY/s320/DSC04125.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">Isaac and Jeremy "driving" the Big Truck!</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0hOb1yOO80evAdkqV8IBTOoQgye9FXUMeyFQEg8nm988W_Q1IBA4X49FJYjr6PMLLRD6uo3IELCB_Mi0ViyweFmoHYSmRqBUdhnnwT-YpgkNn4ftl2dg_uUQU9n6cfg1rh5iqYWpHMo/s320/DSC04128.JPG" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">I think this smile sums up how much fun he had!</span></i></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-838421946914526022010-10-25T20:15:00.002-04:002010-10-25T20:58:16.078-04:00Grammy's Maine Apple SauceSo, another month has gone by and I'm just now updating again! :) It seems that this morning sickness is finally ebbing off (at 12 weeks) and I am super thankful. I know my house will be thankful. <br /><br />This past weekend we spent at my mom and dad's place in Stella because I had my 1o year high school reunion. It was fun seeing everyone that came and seeing all their children. Also, Friday night we went to the football game. I was really excited we got there in time for the half-time show with the marching band and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">colorguard</span>. My hubby has teased me relentlessly for years about being in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">colorguard</span> and finally he got to see it in action. It is quit a production at my old high school and I have to admit I felt a bit of satisfaction when Blake commented "There are more people on that field than I had in my whole high school!" :) <br /><br />Anyway, the weekend before last my parents went to Maine to visit my Grammy and they came back with lots of fun presents! They gave us pure maple syrup, 3 bags of apples and lots of other little goodies. Isaac got some books, a shirt, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">pjs</span>, and his most prized possession a "Big Truck with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">horsies</span>!!!!"<br /><br />I have been so excited about the Maine apples! I'm gonna have to come up with some more recipes. I started with homemade apple sauce last night. It's actually probably more like a cross between apple sauce and stewed apples. I thought I would share my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">grammy's</span> recipe with you. <br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Grammy's</span> Applesauce</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">12 Apples</span> ( good cooking apple, ex Cortland is what I used and a few <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Maccoons</span>. I would not recommend a real grainy apple like Macintosh)<br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">1/4 cup white sugar</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">1/4 cup brown sugar</span> ( Packed if you want it more sweet, otherwise don't pack it)<br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">1 Tbsp Pure Maple Syrup</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">1/8 tsp nutmeg</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">1 Tbsp Cinnamon</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">Start by peeling all the apples. Next, cut in half, cut in half again (so now the apple is in quarters, cut the middle core out) Then cut each piece in half again. You want it to be in chunks instead of slices like apple pie.</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">Get a big pot and fill it with 1 inch of water. You don't want to overdo the water because then it will be soupy. Yuck! Put all your apples and other ingredients in pot and mix together. Bring to a simmer and then cook it on a low simmer. Cook it slow or you will burn it. Stir occasionally and when apples start to break up you can mash the apples with a potato masher. Mash to the consistency you like. I like bigger chucks so I didn't do it too much. Cook to smell and taste, you may like yours sweeter or with more cinnamon. Serve warm or cold!</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"></span><br />This is a great applesauce, but you could also use it like this:<br />filling for apple turnovers<br />topping crepes or pancakes<br />topping on a bowl of oatmeal<br />topping on ice cream or yogurt<br /><br />This recipe makes a good amount so feel free to freeze some of it!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-11757918002966384492010-09-28T21:20:00.007-04:002010-09-28T21:52:25.096-04:00Isaac's Birthday Festivities!<em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em><br /><div align="justify">I've got so much I want to update you on and share, but I will have to do it over the next few weeks. For starters, those of you who haven't heard, ISAAC IS GONNA BE A BIG BROTHER! :) That's actually a big reason why I haven't been updating as of late. With my first two pregnancies I felt great morning sick wise but this one has been a completely different story. I have had nausea for the past two weeks pretty much all day everyday. Occasionally, I will get a few hours of a break. But it's pretty difficult dealing with this and keeping Isaac. Blake has done an amazing job helping. He does as much as he can when he's home! He's been so good about helping with Isaac and even doing the dishes! So anyway, we are super excited and I am definitely looking forward to the end of my 1st trimester. . . in about 4-5 weeks! One day at a time :)<br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><br /><div align="justify">Also, this past weekend I went with a group of friends to Durham for the Pure Life Women's Conference. It was a blast. I think they are moving it back to New York next year. We are already trying to plan a road trip for next year! It was so worth it! More to come on that conference in a future post.<br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center">Last weekend we had Isaac's birthday party. Lots of food, friends, fun and presents! His actual birthday was today so we did get him a cupcake to celebrate. Here are some pictures from the party and today:<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522142328621432098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34MuV44bLQFTQpLP6NkqEapLTGVggLdR7j9wj_Zb492hN4jaHEojLOaOnP6EROGssT3U47KfBfbS5-TPHq91wt4eBX00GjYvt0c3mQzRfcDiImh2dTBJ2OAm-lSQcuJJoamy8k2xg0HA/s320/DSC03966.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">The "Bug" cake</span></em></div><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522142877537629682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp6GanXsghAOwO2hp2n5mjAmcWDUZks2fEhUt_1gpVcNCpAwabaEYbYVajZug9M_8NJIbfYj4H3FPIcLZbHFX5uAw6BO2ih2FkL5U-Jcdi9bRISxDZ8I6okkY8rJGM0u_8Zg9aNsJR7Q/s320/DSC03976.JPG" /></span></em></p></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><p align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522143414062583458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIacu4Fo_zvwCCbr2wLKGj5IuYVxS_kiN5eCWS9dmk6ES_eZtjcUc7LfXxPbe3l4kMBr5UCbgCV_YF9dp4Rqyx41JFQCXRIKCXbgav0IdtWwWNFtQiAxnFpmp9WZFI28wSUL0HSbsVpk/s320/DSC03983.JPG" /></p><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Isaac was ready for some "Happy cake"!</span></em></div><div align="center"> </div><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522144335139684210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_ooqpSxj6N7qKyt6ybZ0nGuOcQz3OqhDfgurJJegVB9y3Df6T9qWP1xbb2KIGWRNHA7qgYBXK8zJrOy60t_0Z9q_JCUj8TUqu8ZHKLcMIaYCSdfagYgXtTry2G3LOun3JT5-MzaybHA/s320/DSC04009.JPG" /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Isaac on his birthday. We started a tradition last year where we got him one cupcake from Your Perfect Cake in Greenville. And so the tradition continues this year!</span></em></p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522146166690480802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwchhc5Vp4DD_Fdeme_ILRk5t5IgKwIJBAQ-Iyvm1Ze_7Lzy_yIzneW2ech-ENtEGWrpsoAie12HdR3MWL47QeFJ0qPl56NVxzaM7BT9liiaYIX7azpl0_GUk6-OW6_D0NShWmhGnJi7s/s320/DSC02017.JPG" /></span></em></p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Isaac one year ago!<br /></p></span></em><br /><p></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-58679620416021488322010-09-13T21:42:00.004-04:002010-09-13T22:16:58.675-04:00Day OffToday was our day off. We had a great day. We ate breakfast and then went over to Boyd Lee Park to walk the trails and then let Isaac play on the playground. On our walk we saw a little green snake, Isaac did not hesitate to touch it and then pull it out of his daddy's hand! Laughing all the while (mommy may have screamed a little in the background). :) After, that he got to play with a worm and some big ants. Then he ran down the trail after Vanderbilt emphatically shouting "go , go" and waving his arms at him.<br /><br />After the park we ran to Sam's and Blockbuster and then went home for lunch. While Isaac was napping Blake and I watched the Firm because neither one of us had seen it before. When there was about 10 minutes left in the movie Isaac started to wake up. We looked in the video monitor and saw he had taken his pants off and was bouncy around like a crazy man in his crib. We should have gone back there then, but we were trying to finish our movie! :) Sooo, when we get back there he is naked from the waist down and his diaper with "poo poo" is on the floor. Honestly, it wasn't as bad as it could have been but it still needed to be cleaned up. Especially the crib bumper he apparently rode as a horsie. . . after the diaper was off I'm guessing. So I did some laundry and Blake got the Clorox wipes out. All is well now.<br /><br />Every Monday night Blake has class online from 7 to 9 so I was hanging out with Isaac. As I was giving him his bedtime snack I decided to get started on the dishes. He finished, but I wasn't done so I thought "Hmmm, I think I'll just let him play on his own for a bit". Every time I do this I usually ask myself afterward if it was worth it! :)<br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516579277719383634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCybP6ESjeYkFalOX2m_zEcVGy0kxVPfaBkmdZM-ozvgvnvu5_w_qUAOMbfUGsi4fc47_V5-33pXlE0h4QGZy_A4DV2IqV4fFkkPw_GSBa5PctkeR9i2tVI4iHrgllfGpP7ms6goYDiA/s320/DSC03959.JPG" /><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>Granted I know this isn't horrible but the boy was just crazy! I came in the living room and Isaac was jumping up and down on the couch in his diaper like a wild man. This was after he made sure most of the pillows were off the couch. I just had to laugh.</em></span></div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516580365652972226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUW2uT0G9pdE-YlkpZNrGLLGaKP8e3YtgmdPYGIOW1Zso1SsT6CNqUdQIjxJmMEpJZycc9NfQZK9lxAjBW3xwxui0bikvSP1RDQRaVCRJr0WcFCT7WmrG5eyz4labRXRw7-KaBubj3JN4/s320/DSC03960.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">On the bright side the dishes got done and at least one room is clean! :)</span></em></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-36520429891240858432010-09-11T14:42:00.007-04:002010-09-11T15:08:06.964-04:00Tailgate<div>We've been a busy bunch lately. The start of fall with a million football games on the schedule, birthday parties galore, and even a couple of weddings to go to. All that on top of an already busy campus schedule! We are having fun, and I've been sure to take a few naps here and there so I can keep up.<br /><div><div><div><div>I'm gonna keep this post short and just share some pics from the ECU vs Memphis tailgate. Isaac and I left before the game. He has been a little under the weather with a runny nose and I wanted him to get plenty of rest this afternoon! Tis the season!:)</div><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515728962393546434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOMxAOhLt0j_LV4KpZF0rtkdtXe2qNuD-XyP-sSQ2X2AoV5vqqspZn1XFBWWWXxPEADhPQ2OzlLDw3ClD5g1l41wCvsaDKglipDq9MRYU1sZP3QRrau7Q8UjaUGsLLDNVSFWjyCtmDxE/s320/DSC03939.JPG" /></div></div><br /><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>The Family!</em></span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em></em></span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515729839825932322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eAc9amAuws6afhwukKUlcTr_OrQehf6FXN5bVJb7NL9POIqwDXknbEnGbhGWEXH-e-x8NPDdIxckZFM5fN5XfMABwXq7A9rOKqtoZUbiM101BH2SzM008WEhfCfzO6arYCRV69hWtvY/s320/DSC03941.JPG" /></em></span><br /><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Isaac playing football with Daddy!</span></em></p></div><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515730393463160898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnTQQvn8OLV8d0HkWR86PiLi9LOeeQsk2G88GEBXfw4CHY5fefD8xXad_bUFqefbHTVsUAExTcp_nBGDhHusAu8xN4H_G0QJY2tJvk9_GzHClqnztlo5xS_SF3qVy-de1y0lF2PUCKw8/s320/DSC03943.JPG" /></span></em></p></div><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Isaac is enamored with the ECU Marching Band. He looooves watching them march and play. Especially the drums. Blake said it's a strong "spirit" he inherited from his mother's high school years and we're gonna have to break it! :) ha ha</span></em></p><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></p><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515731218006417778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivgEHpPKwCMFFL4rieFVmYiwjVKTPkMPUB4nJi_EqIkFfOa8jYvMCFRD5LG2fwgq8B1ENmdKUzwYuNL0oAzzwZpGjN6JnYxCVgkkajaz9jo9nQrF1hT1F8SCcBx8aOzSy7KvBcfXBLMk/s320/DSC03946.JPG" /></span></em></p></div><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">I looove this picture! Daddy's and sons are so precious!</span></em></p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em> </p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515732850936971394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ql3bEXue4QhqhTKhHPrrjDn00ePChDeaEahOVsgReuXU0VnV4Bc2CUEudvj7RI0FmH2IDcsbTZ3rYLXmQie_Y7JCfOfXFMMOr5KM__kNQComX65mAfc_NvK5Teh1gSCnSTGco37LLbg/s320/DSC03952.JPG" /></span></em></p><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Like Father, like Son. This boy is taking the coffee and running! He seriously held this box the whole way home; in his stroller, in the car seat and then walked down our street with it when we got home. He's a peculiar one at times! :)</span></em></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-14423306198947018682010-08-29T22:12:00.005-04:002010-08-29T22:28:37.751-04:00Pavlova<div align="left"> This past Thursday I ended up making the <a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/the-best-pavlova/Detail.aspx">Pavlova</a>. It turned out great but it's a little sweet, even for me. If I make it again I would probably cut back on the sugar in the meringue.<br /></div><div align="left">It's a definitely a different dessert, texture and all. The Pavlova was named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. Some chefs in Australia and New Zealand wanted to make a dessert for her that was as light and airy as she was when she danced. How flattering! :)</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">Part of the reason I wanted to try this dessert was because of the egg whites and whipped cream. I hadn't tried either one of those things with my Kitchen Aid yet. Can I say it was a breeze! I was completely amazed! It took like 3 minutes to whip the egg whites into meringue! I was super dooper impressed.</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511022471260090066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjFhpgBudb7UGZtInQvXKP4rCSnrlPK6mwzmHm3zWhpIsq6gCcRd1fxS01_287d7iznbzW2-1c4tuJKbHzUnVrBrkGEaGSnNW22e1nUqjP5frHEv1uVqHaziw8v6hqCghHHqJgQDtgMI/s320/DSC03910.JPG" /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Fresh out of the oven, crunchy on the outside, foamy and chewy on the inside!</span></em> </div><div align="center"><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511023044305431682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKt2QZBab8ICbQVQ-Gbb-e1w3XPBRzAarEpZQ5kzjxasqnXjUhwTSHvkmI_VGMeGuvNrp4KQeOgjRsUwiUmxACZJb0qss2Tki4wqg_vLjQiijuCMKBBIjyDjiG0tLn5EvxBLK_SxdsHsU/s320/DSC03912.JPG" /> <p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Finished product!</span></em><br /></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-67384048279251680602010-08-25T21:27:00.008-04:002010-08-25T22:12:45.787-04:00Not quite the Barefoot Contessa<div><div><div>I'm not sure if it's the start of a new school year or fall approaching, but lately all I've wanted to do is organize, bake and do crafty projects. Don't get me wrong, I haven't completely changed. I didn't say I "liked" cleaning but I do appreciate things being organized. I hope this is the beginning of a new habit, but only time will tell. My hubby affectionately told me the other day to "Slow down, before you burn yourself out" ;) Point taken, will do! </div><div><br /> </div><div>Yesterday, while I was sorting through our desk (bills and receipt's galore) I was watching the Barefoot Contessa. On that episode she made some <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/irish-soda-bread-recipe/index.html">Irish soda bread</a>. While I was watching I thought "hmmm, I've never had soda bread, it seems an odd thing to make, it doesn't sound super appetizing" But it did look delish and was super easy with a Kitchen Aid mixer. So, today I thought I would try my hand at it. I did switch up a couple things in her recipe. It calls for orange zest which I didn't have and buttermilk. Side note: you can actually make your own buttermilk by adding white vinegar to regular milk but I was out. So I just used half and half and milk. Also, it called for currants, which I've heard of but didn't really know what they where. After looking it up tonight I believe they are really tiny Zante grapes that originated in Greece. I didn't happen to have any lying around so I kicked it eastern NC style with regular raisins. </div><div><br /> </div><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509529069510811442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6fKKjIWR02xmqoReCXGn5aWuZYoczOphG_k4NL-9y2c8hIWf2l3LHLGFg3tAJ7C5nbfP34a5O-DuyBxZhsfNbvG2TDR54Q325l9z3ObCrEZ5Ss16lqCVUVQFPb2TDJ1s-fs3Bb-hpf4/s320/DSC03907.JPG" /><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"><em>This was before! (Beware the dough is SUPER wet and sticky)</em></span></div><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff6600;"><em><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509530054884751218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphen0qiY1G91OLWf1bIl1l0zIZQZFGrzI1KPcdz1kS60gyxo1mOCCr10d-BYBGUnTHuj2UxVz3IqLUW6dcNnS2Vg_d30aW7yPSmF-4-vpatCwVZzlpDBJr-jYnEk7YTb2W3w1hQQSV7krc/s320/DSC03909.JPG" /></em></span><br /><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">This is after! I laughed when I took it out because it was so tall and cracked on the bottom half. Not quite the Barefoot Contessa, but it still tasted great!</span></em></p><p align="left"><span style="color:#000000;">Tomorrow I may try my hand at a Pavlova which is a dessert made out of meringue, cream and topped with berries. Yummmm. At Sam's this week they have had 12oz containers of organic raspberries for $3.47! That is a steal! I remember they did that last year too. I've already bought 3 containers and I'm hoping they still have them when we get paid on the 1st so I can freeze some.</span><br /></p><p align="left">And just in case you wonder what Isaac has been up to here is a picture.<br /></p><p align="left"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509533005006712674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOHRtPnjRRWqifKIYiBWU9QlF4sVZGCnNHdBjwLSBCr7i5U_-9sZ8j8R_Be3eP5diixZZu5lznHh50AT9gQSrKeFYc1wIw7fihTTcERnW3Me-21uhaMGKtO1esJqma0wcQSVlr-jb4rA/s320/DSC03905.JPG" /></p></div><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff6600;"><em>Wearing his ECU beads and shoes Mama D bought for him for next year.</em></span></p><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff6600;"><em><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509534271672961746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLNJolt58IFDLHP5T6t-AwXxoHhgkzJ576DocVtLRQnP9k1qaEznUH3_J6jCk8YceIQzqMenYTDYVAdI4sDQP4wLBRULixfvulh91X6P6BZIM9rVCdL7WlGYbsWWuElTfOFDXSX7KuUfM/s320/DSC03898.JPG" /></em></span></p></div><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff6600;">Isaac's new favorite snack, frozen peas! Who knew? A family friend told us about it last week when we had dinner with them.</span></em></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-20158900443454923102010-08-17T15:55:00.005-04:002010-08-17T16:46:37.205-04:00Weeee're Baaack!<div><div>Hello there! I know it's been a while. It's been a really busy summer. There have been a few times I've wanted to post and not been able to because of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Internet</span> access. Anyhow, we are back in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Greenville</span> now and it feels great. I think since June we haven't been in town for more than 3 days at a time!</div><br /><div>This summer we went to Texas, met up with some of our ministry partners, got a few new partners, I spent a couple of weeks with my mom, Blake went to VA for a week of school, we went on vacation, Blake had surgery on 2 hernias, Blake went to Harvest Institute in Raleigh, led summer <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">VCM</span> and we went to 2 weddings! I think that pretty much catches us up ;)</div><br /><br /><div></div><div>This past weekend we went to the Outer Banks for Joel and Hilary's wedding. It was so much fun! It was truly one of the best weddings we've ever been to, and we've been to a lot! ;) I can't wait to see what Jesus does through their marriage!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506472203729095778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9k0U8CGQuAp4xmFG5Mf0PGRUj2yDhSSwox4vBab93V_rwivw63aTrmwIHSetEVjdlvHyyb9CTSVy8-XoJ3bV59kZg3wHYmHpau6z2mUi_nsrQPnOfFZCWYPsSjnFFH5FyC-i2ls245o/s320/DSC03890.JPG" /></div></div><br /><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>Blake and Joel at the reception.</em></span></p><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506472611974159842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxG8Anvo-TNialNJf7CwHPzVVqD8OcivpXQHwMuthe0frMqPYhG-a4_OHxYHbXkHG4r9gbd3eL9zAa5tcJIY5igEEmnVlsE0y3iOyhPdST-_pH-vHVsmpaaXGTYWTnXZjHRK1mhkFxvIE/s320/DSC03891.JPG" /></em></span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>The beautiful bride!</em></span></p><p align="left"><span style="color:#000000;"></span> </p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-49196947645627149752010-07-08T16:58:00.004-04:002010-07-08T17:21:51.465-04:00Chopped<div><div>Many of you have probably already seen my new dew on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">facebook</span>, but just in case you haven't here are some pics!</div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 282px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491643133559636274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSrdpwGnHyz3Lrxm6_xfEMWz6cORDslX7hkzczRj9y6K20roH68NBuQhqmcpqQC2p5-MV2ll_6i-0FDFIq-9UbmZ_fS2AoFYDZ0JjsowD23hm11dKpwMS6Q2PieC-XGgAV1Sy76raF_4/s320/before.jpg" /></div></div><br /><p> </p><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491644165255052306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSi-0ux58bcLTD-J5sFXsffdeyE1SAyDy-SKbzOudxGqdqrOPLWs8vlnB6aI8LKcwAhV5xas4cAoFykRZfBLgc6qp03B7WGWWrPLuXoNqpGa3M0cBLCbVV4HcrY7LOIgYUrBjN1543aw/s320/after.jpg" /></p><p>The hubby <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">loooved</span> it! When I text him a picture after, he responded "hot tamale". And then when I got home he said it reminded him of Jennifer <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Aniston's</span> hair on friends. To which I replied "Like from the 90's!!!???" I know he meant it as a compliment, so I'll take it ;) ha ha</p><p>The best part is I was able to cut off 10 inches and will donate it to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.locksoflove.org"><span style="color:#33ff33;">locks of love</span></a>! </p><p>* in a recent <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">development</span>, I need to go, I just heard Blake get Isaac up from his nap and ask why his <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">PJ</span> pants are on the floor! :)</p><p> </p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-796479183982689772010-06-24T21:55:00.009-04:002010-06-24T22:39:34.213-04:00Stella Day 3Today was a great day! I don't know what we are going to do when we get back home. Isaac will probably look at me and say "What? No pool, no river, no beach?" "I'm going back to Stella! " ;)<br /><div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486527156696376962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRFkn8D4vgh-kUsiZPrs6fhHg5kN41l3NG-H0HwuFQtK-yf9l9KsMGyMHIIORRAIIWAO5lBfR7fQabbeILGRU7fuH9MSZzTLD0ne1CFQ7OubvXHEVE1HfD0XH6nwzxjoCiM9zfztl8k4/s320/DSC03654.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486528056240787826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlWcLx2_gVbI_88pyHmyuEIi9GLDB6v4s-gWxrhUj69bRhLou4B0DQcsKiDrh2bq2tigDXgJYJKeo-FwGQ73W8rUFRT_vNeUBMKdeprHBz8K-WX3apd39PWUNfQRmmgTvwbzZW34h4Wo/s320/DSC03655.JPG" /></p></div><div align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">"<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Umm</span>, I have a wedgie, Can I come in?"<br /></span></em><br /></div><p></p><div><br /><br /></div><p align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486528581407609074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3DdMLRNE-PaQDmhOeUfG5p4lm9Q5uD8dAzC3YJAFWFb1Pi-oqkIYRBoFFijLrG9b-fk28g7OISlSM4xh9gFHHu7QLFiHDjl3MKcGOIIy5C5-7s0xznQQDlA58YOieLLBy3s9OuFyI74/s320/DSC03660.JPG" /><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>Isaac and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Memere</span> walking to the beach.</em><br /></span></p><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486530056254703314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyOd93AtGuiT9LDni-_LxdTObe5pLPOJs7xaYqQBhb435jq1fX9VqCldg00j1GcCDPSIERHqS10Td8yuErtUF6r0B0Kb8NwnC-hUVZpMXZ4qECXrk6MD8fu4szBNkIVcMuhU8-vGQw_8/s320/DSC03663.JPG" /></p><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Isaac <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">looooved</span> the water. He got brave and started charging the waves. . .mommy was running close behind! ;)</span></em></p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486530871424919186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3F_MFEDb0h7iLRfPxcboa2PI1n0a6adeOaKTZlqmcuBx7Wh0o5DCkRSHpwFR1qVcBxe4JXwbSeWspWCqDHu-URXyytW9iMJh1xpdKg7yeZ_Cc6iuUQOwBgPifFHMPp3EAqMQZ-GdW9Rw/s320/DSC03682.JPG" /></span></em></p><p align="center"> <em><span style="color:#ff9900;"> Isaac after his shower at the beach!</span></em></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-7369645300980764032010-06-23T20:45:00.010-04:002010-06-23T22:18:18.454-04:00Stella day 2!<div><br /><div>Today we took Isaac back to the river. . .</div><br /><p><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxVvjarv9NGprUflJTZb90An3xCDf4G7s1tEtIbFbzE5HRHC9Qb1xfdsFoeCqmbrWtHGxUczHU_kmO4wgLz' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /></p><br /><p>He had lots of fun and met a couple "puppies". He even scolded one of them for playing with Vanderbilt. Isaac came running out of the water and said "no,no,no,no".</p><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486147094629065586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcInFA6dqP5gg83XWcpI69CTtUqkQtOAgmjqjfJuoQ_6VmxfSgMSn3Qoqf2SLCNuYXwkwPpLLNwgdTHiy7JNQvSl61_wXwWPTDP1dyJRAXzrIfAKGkyBDGXjCkuncC929QPXfiOCLPOU4/s320/DSC03632.JPG" /></p></div><br /><p>No trip to the river is complete without proper shoes. They're hot, I know! Yesterday when we went down to the river the water was murky and warm and I thought " this is a labor of love" (and if we come back I am totally wearing shoes!) </p><p>And lastly, I will leave you with a picture of Isaac talking to the cat. I use the work "talking" loosely, it's more like yelling. Isaac also tried to play ball with the cat. The cat responded by hissing at him. I understand. Honestly, who would want a ball flying at them during a nap?</p><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486149600213926098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitUQnK-sELnWaCaLh8ZvixaKTuH6r-hjsAj9KA71IlyZPQuW4SiS83kO5q3qXI2b7FfYw44y2FJpofDomiuwxy-zxibkIqLLeFjxddu4l_r5ddJFLhV48dNqFhXzT7mVHOF_ID2MawsbE/s320/DSC03625.JPG" /> </p><p>Daddy, we miss you! We can't wait to see you on Friday!</p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-6935469424333535022010-06-22T21:38:00.009-04:002010-06-22T22:29:45.374-04:00Fathers Day and Stella<div align="center"> For Father's Day this year we went to Battleboro to visit Blake's parents. We had a great time. We went to church, came home, put Isaac down and had a fantastic lunch!</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485780393116387954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAz8jFrwDbkOY1eG-_5umltTJ_LolZGm9N94xmQ-4C1ZGsfH6qIvk7ibBgoXhX5iPVQYby7u5zkMy7thvfZRk883zJeyfUXz3sBxDonCBqNcMFMxb9fu66IgMW5Sa-4cd9I8UlEPjiF0Y/s320/DSC03589.JPG" /> <p align="center"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>Don't you love how easy it is to get a family picture with a toddler? :)</em></span><br /></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485781404457670402" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_3Bezwe5h-asvDKN2_vIAmZANraObwKcNDt2zMIMU_eDMF5ODS-TZgz5rHDfQ94HkqRXdnU87PkYI2K-LzOskuL_qHkO9gr6fWbBRwdiofikI9lLA1MxQbbwTPvGlsknUR8-1JeSN9Q/s320/DSC03594.JPG" /> <span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>He's enjoying life a little better here ( He went to visit the chickens). If you look at his right hand it is clasping tightly to a huge blue and green beetle he found on the porch. He later threw a bit of a fit when mommy made him leave his new friend outside ;)<br /><br /></em></span>On Sunday evening Blake had to leave for Virginia Beach for his graduate school course. Whenever Blake has to travel for school I usually take the opportunity to go to my parents house in Stella. Did I mention they have a pool? Oh yeah, we are having a great time! Isaac too :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485786458244997746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QIeJrRNlmz8i7JLvaAKJT_YGeZCJx8QBxZX68NMKtCCduSPbVTvShvJ5IgFzh4g6B4iFn7zBBx4iUMf1S2KUYEo-oIbMou8fEAes4StO9qiwYmZ13lXl23eZxFXiI76idDnzwszmzSY/s320/June%252022,%25202010%2520004.jpg" /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Two pairs of goggles and one pair of sunglasses!</span></em></p><p align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485787128052402066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H08k_0l_La32WjaVxJ5BzSrsQulY_pU4OPNp-p2Qj7GWIoRFgvpbTqOf671tT7NJBBW8FzbW-QZzLl39NZPG55WAGmruPscY3Lh4T-HAW1QGRBcTl5NVVIHPNUmcCeQZArfmxqhLl1I/s320/June%252022,%25202010%2520014.jpg" /><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Too cool for school. He'll be here all week ladies. ;)</span></em><br /><br /></p><p align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485782358592039778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWmEzHO9QOr-ronxzWuoU64nGiiE3oT6XemWDjiQ-FknjIBh4u0Jc6XaVhNTSTwo5fuDveYbrgo26USNDOJUigmWiripvTrMVHhdmbQQMYU-vNQXRTFHKtK7opf52m7xxNsD1SzOyDCQ/s320/DSC03614.JPG" /></p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">After Isaac's nap we went down to the river and let him wade around. "Wading" turned into him trying to lead us into the middle of the river had we let him! That boy knows no fear!</span></em></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485782916268702754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_p14Wr0CZfdO6magk2TfBkmkpz1B0orF06O9Lz1WfYEaO5Q-pRVwoi3818OGXoZXpDHxF3AXv-KMhsFCa8EKbosKPuirdYIO9UFqjIwqbDw61lUZrdCc73wwIHek4S2NfXMe2ocamag/s320/DSC03606.JPG" /></p><p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">View from the shore, I love the coast!</span></em></p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-57192688294367531562010-06-18T22:05:00.002-04:002010-06-18T22:52:30.542-04:00Due DateThis past weekend was the due date of our second child. It's a weird feeling. You can't help but wonder what it would be like to have that child here. What would it be like to have two kids right now? As I was thinking about this last weekend I thought "I bet we all go through these feelings". You don't have to have miscarried to have a "due date" in mind. <div><br /></div><div>I think we probably all do it. We have a time period in mind, or a picture of how our future is going to work out. For example "I think I'll be married by the time I'm 25. . ." or "I will be making this amount of money in certain number of years. . " etc, you get the picture.</div><div><br /></div><div>But what happens when our "due date" comes or even passes and we have nothing to show for it. What if it doesn't turn out how we envisioned? It's pretty easy to get discouraged about it and even lose a little hope. </div><div><br /></div><div>So let me just preface this next part by saying I didn't just immediately arrive to the following thoughts. It's been a process. </div><div><br /></div><div>After thinking about this stuff the other morning I reminded myself I need to have a big picture perspective. If I start magnifying a particular incident or event (like the miscarriage) it makes me sad. But if I can pan out a little and look at that in the span of my life it gives me more hope. I also have to look at the other side of the coin. Yes, negative things happen, but so do some really great things. Shouldn't I also look at the positive things that I didn't see in my future? I never saw a relationship with God in my future when I was in college. And I sure never envisioned marring a man that would value me enough to save ourselves until marriage. I never really wanted children, and now I have a little man that brings more joy to my life than I ever imagined.</div><div><br /></div><div>I guess what it boils down to, is not just focusing on the bad or unpleasant things that have happened but having the right perspective and rejoicing in the good.</div><div><br /></div><div>These past 9 months were not the path I would have chosen for my life. But I trust God that He knows infinitely more than I do about what I need. He can work this past season for good. It's all about perspective.</div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6552850995649485516.post-62569258902215975642010-06-17T21:54:00.003-04:002010-06-17T22:29:49.680-04:00What's up?<div>I know it has been a while, sorry for not posting ! This time of year is pretty hectic for us. I call it the "living out of our suitcase" season. That's pretty much what we do from mid May to Mid August every year. It's great because we get to see a lot of people and catch up but it can be exhausting :)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The other thing that is exhausting lately is keeping up with wild man! Isaac does not stop. He is everywhere. Today while I was loading a CD in the DVD player he went into the kitchen and climbed on top of the table. I came around the corner and he was wearing a t-shirt and diaper swinging the light over the table back and forth. I'm just lucky I caught him before he decided to hang from it! (It was funny, but I tried not to let him see me laughing. I also wanted to take a picture but thought that would be encouraging the action, so I opted out of that idea.) :)</div><div> </div><div> </div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483931096036690370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrBJJx4nMVfiKOceNrIpfTydRWPLp_15Cpw35dmX05qI8hq4MVRTvInidq4qtjevk-ja5mH3KrnwY-QBQRgMUWx6cRF5KqafhFGV0cymTeNY2PGHK4xN3Kt8r6_wH5zsjWDlzFd2mLus/s320/DSC03563.JPG" /> <p align="center"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">This is another example if Isaac's handy work!</span></em></p><p align="left"><span style="color:#000000;">Our house pretty much looks like a tornado went through it before nap time. </span></p><p align="left">I hope to write again soon! Hope you are enjoying your summer as much as we are!</p>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05260629741611178124noreply@blogger.com0