Ark Encounter: Help Build the Ark!

Ark Encounter: Help Build the Ark!

We are going to donate at the Peg level. Will you consider joining us?

New Milestone

I have been blogging about Rebecca a lot lately, haven't I? Well, I guess it's because so many milestones happen in such a short period of time when they are this age.

The latest milestone? She gained enough height to finally turn round doorknobs. She came bounding in my room after nap time yesterday and early this morning. I have been watching and waiting for this dreaded day to come. It means that no doorknob is safe. No room is off limits. No room can contain her. No unlocked external door can be relied upon.

This may all sound outrageous and over the top, but some of you may share my memories of me "losing" Zach inside my house and us finding him walking down the long driveway with Sylvester.

My remedy with Zach became childproof doorknob covers - everywhere. When he learned to pop those open, it lead to duct tape around some of the covers. Yes, I trapped my son in his room during rest time so I could get a much needed break.

Today at nap time, I pulled those covers back out, sans the duct tape. I am hoping that Rebecca does not learn to pop the covers off for some time. Otherwise, mean 'ole mama is gonna come back out . . .

She has a bed . . . I promise

Before the passy disappeared, back when naptime actually happened, this is what I found in Rebecca's room two days in a row during afternoon nap.



Isn't this just too cute for words??

Passy Free Zone

We have survived one week in the Passy Free Zone. Rebecca chewed through her last one last Thursday and we had to sadly inform her that her passy was "broken" and that it was gone. She still daily looks at the empty spot where the passy used to reside and tells me solemnly, "Passy broken."

It was a tough go at first, especially at night, but we are finally only getting a little wimper or sometimes nothing at all. Naptime is not so great. She pretty much isn't taking naps now and instead wanders about her room causing destruction or banging on her door to be released. I continue to be hopeful that the naps will return, but I fear they are gone for good.

So this milestone did not happen as soon as I had hoped, but at least it is passed now. What's next? Potty training. Ugh. I'm going to try to wait a little longer but she may not let me. "Potty? Potty?" is what she likes to say as she smiles and points to the toilet. Nothing actually happens when she reaches her destination, but I should probably jump on this bandwagon as it passes by. I'm gonna pull a Scarlett and think about that tomorrow.

Rhythm Gene

Rebecca has inherited the rhythm gene. Two times in the last few days I have observed her keeping time with her foot while a toy plays music. I've never witnessed a child so young finding and keeping the beat. Looking forward to seeing how that gift unfolds. :)

Proud of My Heritage

It has been more than 24 years since my maternal grandfather, Papa, went home to be with my Lord Jesus. The older I get, the more poignant my memories of him become. I am so proud that he was a Baptist pastor and that he faithfully served the Lord until his death at age 70.

A few years ago, my grandma lovingly gave Chad some of Papa's books and materials he used for the decades he taught and preached. Chad refers to them as needed for his Sunday school lessons and discipleship classes.

I received my Christianbook midweek markdowns email this morning and a book caught my interest. I ran it by Chad to get his opinion and he paused. "I think I have that book," he said and then went straight to it on his bookshelves. "Oh, that's the 7th edition," I said. "This one is the 13th edition." Then after looking at it for a moment, I recognized it and opened the cover. "Austin Rissmiller, Shelbyville, MO - 3/84" was written in Papa's distinctive handwriting. I don't know if he received it as a gift or if he picked it up out of interest. If my memory serves me, he had already been diagnosed with colon cancer and I am sure knew his tasks were nearing completion. A newspaper clipping had been tucked into the inside cover with underlined passages.

For some reason, that has stayed with me this entire day. It brings a smile to my face to know that I was drawn to a book that my Papa owned. I don't think he ever had a chance to read it. The binding has not yet been broken. I plan on reading it as my time permits. What was the book, you might ask? The Handbook of Denominations in the United States.

Healthy, but still quarantined

Just a quick update to praise God that my entire family is no longer sick. Thursday morning, Hannah and Zach both showed great improvement and began eating normally without throwing up. We dealt with this virus and all it's horrible side effects for 15 days.

Now the downside. This was a Norovirus which, according to the CDC, is still contagious up to 1-2 weeks after the victim stops having symptoms. Because I don't want to knowingly share this virus with anyone and because I do not want the kids to contract anything else, the kids and I will stay home from church tomorrow.

I don't think it's oversimplifying to say that I am going stir crazy. I have not left this house since last Saturday. I have not really had contact with anyone other than my family for more than a few moments for 8 days. If I were by myself, I think I would be fine. Since I have been with 3 sick, cranky siblings, it's been kind of like Chinese torture. I look forward to going to Brookshires this weekend just to see other people.

Today, I am very thankful for a healthy family and am exceedingly thankful for the phone and Internet so I can at least stay in contact with the world!

Rebecca's 2 Year Appt

I'm about a month behind on this, but I wanted to share Rebecca's stats from her 2 year appointment at the end of October.

Weight: 28.4 lbs (69%)
Height: 35.25 in (83%)
Head Cir: 19" (70%)

My growing girl has 19 teeth now, passed her vision and hearing screens, and got two shots, including her flu shot. She got a new eczema cream for her face. Hoping that clears up the red blotches on her cheeks. That brings her up to 3 prescribed creams plus over the counter creams to treat her eczema which appears in patches on her face, arms, legs, and behind. Praying she outgrows this. If she doesn't, we may consider allergy testing down the road. :(

Other than the eczema, she is doing great. She promoted to her toddler bed two nights ago and is so proud of it! We will purchase the mattress and box springs for her twin bed frame as soon as time and funds allow. For now, she is quite content and hasn't rolled out of the bed even once!

Stomach Flu Go Away

If you haven't heard, our family has been battling an evil little virus called Viral Gastroenteritis. The common name is stomach flu even though it is no relation to the influenza virus. The most common ailments are vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Did I mention it's evil? So here is the timeline of how it's been going:

Thursday, 11/11: I wake up with serious intestinal issues, but contribute my troubles to my IBS and go about my business. Rebecca fusses during naptime for 2 hours, never sleeps, then vomits all over her crib and floor next to her crib. She then has the worst diarrhea I've ever seen in my life for the next three days. I experience the stomach cramping for about two days.

Wednesday, 11/17: Zach complains of a brief tummy ache just before dinner then decides he's fine, eats supper, and we go to Awana. That night, he spikes a fever and vomits all over his bed.

Thursday, 11/18: Zach has all the side effects and low and behold, I get a second round of the virus.

Friday, 11/19: By evening, Chad is the next victim.

So today we are all watching Hannah to see if she is going to get it. Zach is still very bad and has little to no energy. So sad that we may miss all the Thanksgiving festivities at church and with our family. We're taking it one day at a time and will determine on Tuesday who is able to travel and how far we can go. We may just have to have ourselves a little celebration here under quarantine.

Community Fall Festival (43 photos), by Julie Smith

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Happy Anniversary Chad!

I am so proud to say that Chad and I celebrate seven years of marriage today. It seems like such a short time, but so much has been packed into it! In the first five years, we had three children, built a house, Chad changed jobs, and God relocated every part of our lives to Gunter (including Chad's office just in the last month!). In the last two years, God has been growing us and equipping us for ministries and opportunities that continue to grow and appear on the horizons.

I am so proud of my handsome husband. He works hard, loves our children, is an amazing protector, and has devoted his life to serving God. It is my pride and joy to stand by his side as his partner and wife. I am so thankful for God's direction in both of our lives that allowed us to have second chances.

Happy Anniversary my sweet sweet Chad! I pray that together we will continue to seek the Lord with all our hearts and I look forward to the surpises and blessings that He has in store for us!

Obedience

This is an excerpt from Experiencing God: Day-by-Day Devotional, November 2, which I read today. It spoke so loudly to me that I felt the need to share it.

Have you done what you know to do? "Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin." James 4:17

It is never a minor thing to know God's will and not do it. God calls this sin. . . . in God's eyes, rationalization and procrastination are nothing more than disobedience . . . When we encounter God . . .it is not enough to write down the date . . . or even to tell our friends and church . . . God's call is not to "make a decision" but to obey! Deciding to obey is not equal to obeying (Matt 21:28-31)! Loudly affirming the necessity of obedience is not the same as obeying (Luke 6:46). Making commitments, even publicly, is not the same as obeying our Lord. Substituting our own good works is not the same as obeying.

God expects you to obey everything exactly as He tells you. Only obedience satisfies God's desire for obedience.

I'm praying that each of you experiences the freedom and joy of obedience today.

Messianic Genealogy Wall Chart - PDF Download - Answers Bookstore

Messianic Genealogy Wall Chart - PDF Download - Answers Bookstore

Check out this link. Free download this week only.

Who needs expensive containers?

I just love my son. He gets so excited about simple things and he always reminds me to find the joy in every little thing. Today, I offered him an empty animal crackers container for his cars and trains. It's a big one from Sam's. I like to store various toys or supplies in them.

It was like Christmas for him. He beamed and said, "Thanks, Mommy!" Then he ran upstairs and started gathering all the trains and cars in sight. What a sweet boy he is!

Changes, Allergies and Awanas

It has been oh-so-busy around here the last week. After receiving the excited "okay" from Zachary, we are finally swapping Rebecca and Zachary's bedrooms. I knew it was going to be a challenge with all the toys and furniture, but you never know exactly how much you have until you begin to move it.

Chad went to enjoy a few days at Papaw's this weekend. While he was gone, I decided to really dig in and cleared half of Zach's room. We also went to Lowe's and picked up the paint for Zach's new room. It is simply titled "Sand 3." Zach thinks it's way cool. Daddy tried to complicate it by asking if that was sandbox sand or ocean sand. Thanks Daddy. lol But it didn't deter Zach. He is still very excited. We will complete the furniture move over the next few days and then paint will be at the end of the week.

The other not-so-fun stuff lately has been allergies. From the day I got back from Disney, a variety of allergens have been lurking in the air. Apparently, I am allergic to them all. My sneezing, wheezing, coughing, and subsequent headache and body aches have escalated and it now appears that I have an upper respiratory infection. Since Chad has IBM training all this week, I'll be making the journey to the doctor tomorrow with three little urchins in tow. Maybe that will make the nurses push me through a little faster.

I know this post is an assortment of items, but I also wanted to share how much I am enjoying Awana this year. I am the Sparks Director this year. I was a bit hesitant on taking the role because it is much more responsibility than just a leader, but I wouldn't change it for anything now. It is so FUN!!! We had 28 Sparkies last Wednesday. When you have 28 kindergarten through 2nd graders in one room, there is always a lot going on! Between me and the four leaders (including Chad), we keep them in line. I think my favorite part of being with the Sparkies is their honesty. They will ask you any question that pops in their minds without any reservations. And they are so thirsty to hear about Jesus and the Bible. It's such an enormous blessing to be a part of this ministry and I pray that God keeps me in this role for awhile.

So now I am off to take some more medicine and hopefully get some good rest for the night!

The Unwelcome Terrible Two's

It is when I reach this stage in a child's life that I remember why I really prefer them when they are about four years old. Even though her birthday is a few weeks away, Rebecca has officially entered the Terrible Two's phase.

We have regular spankings around here due to her point-blank train hurling and her random smacking. Her favorite person to torture is her brother. You know, the one who is two years older and about a foot taller. His tender-hearted nature is to recoil in horror, sometimes scream at her, and maybe even run out of the room. I definitely didn't birth a linebacker.

I am reminded yet again of a phrase I heard often growing up. "And this too shall pass."

Reading!

I am so proud of Hannah and Zach. All of a sudden, they are both reading! I spent the summer participating in reading programs and getting various DVD's from Netflix. I think The Letter Factory and the Talking Words Factory were most helpful to Zach. He is truly sounding out the words. Hannah is little more impatient and prefers to learn the words by sight. Either way, we are on our way to reading!!

Cinderella

I got the opportunity to take Hannah to her very first ballet on Saturday down in Dallas. Keeping with her love of princesses, I chose Cinderella. We went with some other moms and girls from our homeschool co-op and, as a bonus, Amy and Keely came as well!

Here are a couple of pics Daddy took in front of our pond while the curls were still clinging to Hannah's hair.






And here are the giddy cousins getting ready to head to lunch at Corner Bakery.



After lunch, we headed down to the Winspear Opera House. The ballet was 2 hours 20 minutes, but the girls really did quite well. We tried to meet some of the company players afterwards, but the line seemed to go for about a quarter of a mile, so we passed and settled for just gawking at them a bit from the sidelines.

Here are Amy and Keely looking so beautiful in our fourth floor seats.

Still Mending

It has been nearly a month since I last posted. I considered it often but just couldn't bring myself to blog. It's been a tough month for me, but I am finally really feeling like I am mending.

The accident was a tough experience for several reasons. The first, obviously, was the fact that I nearly lost my child. I had nightmares every night for the first two weeks, reliving the first moments when I saw him in the pool and pulled him up. My first thought before I had even moved was that he might be dead. It was such a repelling thought to me that I literally shut down all my emotion so it wouldn't overwhelm me. There is a detrimental side effect to trying to smother your emotions. It tends to ooze out at unexpected times and in potent doses. My sweet Sunday school class got a dose two weeks ago when I suddenly began to sob uncontrollably and had to leave the room. This happened the first Sunday back during worship as well. What surprised me the most, though, was my enormous outburst this past Wednesday after I took Sylvester in to put him to sleep. After he passed oh-so-quietly, I erupted in massive sobs and gave myself the worst migraine I've ever had. But it seems that the emotional wall I had erected has been removed. I finally feel like I can smile again and really mean it.

The second side effect of the accident is I realized that I wasn't the perfect mom I thought I was. Now that sounds pretty ridiculous, but I had actually started patting myself on the back for getting to know my kids so well and fulfilling a need with my family before they even knew the need existed. To fail in such a miserable way was a wake-up call for me that I am not perfect. I had to take a good hard look in the mirror, see all my defects, and reconcile with that.

As I consider the last few weeks, I have come to realize that a lack of control troubled me greatly. I have had to give that over to God and I am working on completely accepting His forgiveness. Quite honestly, I didn't want to be forgiven at first. I didn't believe that I deserved it. In my mind, I had failed to meet the basic need of protecting my child. I thought, what kind of a crappy parent sits blithely watching one child while not noticing that another child struggles for his life only yards away?

Only Christ is perfect.

I know this. I have known this for years. But I have not fully understood it until now. It is actually very freeing to accept that I am not perfect and will never be perfect. I will continue to strive to be more Christ-like, but I will never be fully in control, meeting every need of my family or my friends or my church.

I think of what Paul said in I Corinthians 12:9, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'"

Through my deficiencies, Jesus Christ revealed His almighty power. He has reminded me that my children are a gift and that I have a responsibility to raise them to know, love, and serve Jesus. He has also reminded me that time is a very precious commodity. We must spend it wisely. I spend a lot more time loving on my children than before. I also have a renewed passion for sharing the Gospel. Everyone's clock is ticking and we never know when someone's timer is going to go off. Don't put off living for Christ and sharing the Gospel because tomorrow may not be there - for you or for the other person.

Thank you Lord Jesus for loving me in spite of my imperfections and for lifting me up in my despair. When I walk through my valleys, I pray that I will always remember to lift my eyes up to see the next mountain top I am approaching.

A Minute Matters

Zach's story from Mommy's perspective.

We recently had a very enjoyable visit to some of Chad's family in Brookhaven, MS and Huntsville, AL. The kids had an absolutely wonderful time as they got in the creek at Papaw's, visited the Space and Rocket Center and NASA with Pop Pop and Nana, and, of course, got to swim in Nana's big glorious pool.

I had put off swimming lessons for the kids for the last two summers, but we had gotten these cute inner tubes last year and they got around very well with them. After three days, I developed a deceiving comfort around the pool with the kids.



On Thursday morning, we went to the NASA gift shop then the kids swam with me and Chad. We got out and had lunch on the deck next to the pool, then Chad, Pop Pop and Nana took everything inside while I sat out with the kids. Hannah was still eating with her back to the pool. Zach was standing gleefully next to the deep end of the pool where all the pool toys accumulated and was pulling them out and chunking them back in. Rebecca sat with me for several minutes as we watched Zach then she wanted down. She turned around and headed straight to the flower garden which was at the backside of the deck. From where I sat, I could turn my head to the right and watch the pool or turn my head to the left and watch the garden. As Rebecca stepped barefooted into the garden, I turned to watch her. I watched her long enough to make sure she didn't step on any painful items, then turned back to the pool. And my heart stopped.

It was quiet next to the pool. "Zachary?" I called out. Then from my position, I clearly saw the dark mass at the bottom of the deep end. I ran and leaped into the pool and swam to the deep end. Then I dove straight down to the bottom, located Zach who was vertically inverted, grabbed his ankle and swam to the surface. I remember screaming for help as I worked to get Zach's head out of the water and attempted without success to get him out of the pool. At that moment, Chad came running out and dove in to help me. I later learned that Nana had seen me dive into the pool from the kitchen window and told Chad to get out there to help me. He literally threw Zach out of the pool and got out to begin CPR on our blue son. I was dismayed that I was too tired to pull myself out of the pool and had to settle for pulling halfway out and grabbing Zach's ankle again. Chad's dad had arrived and Nana had gone to call 911. And as Chad breathed life back into our precious baby, I prayed and prayed and prayed. I joked later that I prayed so loudly because I think I wanted to be sure Jesus was hearing me. And my Lord did hear me. Zach started breathing and spit up some. I pulled out of the pool and kept eye contact with him and commanded him to breathe and stay with Mommy and Daddy. Then Chad picked him up and the ambulance arrived. Before transporting, poor Zach threw up all over Chad. Because of the concern for a concussion, Zach was taken to the ER. Chad rode in the ambulance while Nana and I drove behind.

Zach was taken to a wonderful children's hospital about 15 minutes from the house. They were so good to him and so caring to our family. Zach had blood work, a chest x-ray and a CT scan. Concussion was ruled out and oxygen levels looked good, but he had water in his lungs and his potassium level was around 2.4, incredibly low for the little guy. I learned that the potassium level drops after the oxygen level begins depleting in the body. After being diagnosed with pulminary edima, he was admitted as outpatient overnight to be observed for pneumonia which sometimes occurs.

Here's our baby hooked up to all his gadgets after we got to his private room.



I stayed the night with Zach and Chad went back to be with the girls. Hannah had watched the entire scene and had lots of questions. Thankfully, Chad got some one on one time with her and she had a special night of sleeping with Daddy.

Zach slept until his night nurse came on duty in the late evening to do another blood draw. Then he got to enjoy a red popsicle and all the apple juice he could drink.



It was a long night for me as I constantly tended beeping machines, rolled Zach back onto his back to keep his lines unobstructed and thus keep the machines from going berserk. And then there were the bathroom trips. Wow, a lot of work to get him about 8 feet away. But I wouldn't have it any other way. There was no way anyone was going to pry me away from him.

The next morning, Zach had another blood draw and confirmed his potassium levels were back at normal levels and had another chest x-ray to confirm just a little bit of water was left in his right lung.

It was difficult for him to play, but he so enjoyed the toys I had brought to make his stay more comfortable. Charity groups also came by and brought him a handmade smiley-face pillow (which he sleeps on every night), a handmade bear Daddy named Stripey (because it has striped fabric Mommy - duh!), a Monsters, Inc book, a coloring book, and small box of crayons! He was all smiles.



The resident doctor came in mid-morning and confirmed Zach was cleared to go home. She made instant friends with Zach when she named the Thomas trains I had brought him. It was because of this, I think, that he responded very openly when she asked if he remembered what happened. "I fell in," he said solemnly. "I tried to get out." That little sentence was like a lead weight on me. I had hoped that one of the scratches on his head meant that he was unconscious when he fell in the water. This confirmed that he had been wide awake. As I watched his little sister to make sure she didn't get a bug bite, my little boy was struggling for his life behind me.

I cried so much the first few days. There was so much guilt weighing on me. I learned very valuable lessons. First, never allow myself to get into a situation where I have to choose to turn my back on a potentially harmful situation no matter how benign it may seem. I had lost respect for the pool. Big mistake. Second, I had put off swimming lessons because we do not have a pool. Everyone needs to know how to swim. Period. I also learned that I love my children beyond description. I was ready to give my life for my child and I couldn't imagine living without him. It was just a glimpse of what God feels for us and it was almost overpowering.

We went back to Nana and Pop Pop's before lunch and got settled down. After supper Friday evening, we went to a nifty ice cream shop and Zach got a chocolate ice cream cone. He enjoyed every bite.



Zach is still working through his traumatic experience. As we were cautioned, we saw some aggressive behavior the first few days. He also does not want to be by himself. And, interestingly enough, he wants to play play-doh. It seems to be therapeutic for him. He played Friday and even ate down on the floor so he could keep playing. I was told he played at church Sunday morning, and then he played for about five hours on Monday. I can see that he is improving so I guess it's getting the job done.

After talking with the family, we pieced together the few minutes before the accident and I feel that Zach was under for about two minutes. A minute earlier and he may have received a reprimand and a huge hug. A minute later and this could have been a very different post.

I am so thankful to God for giving Zachary back to us. It has reminded me that I need to keep my priorities straight. I am so thankful for my husband who breathed life back into our son. His quick response made all the difference. I am also so thankful to the countless individuals who prayed for Zach and our family. We heard from some people we do not even know. Never underestimate prayer. We felt every single one.

Thank you sweet Jesus for returning Zachary to us. I know you have great plans for him and I cannot wait to see those plans unfold.

Cutting Boards and Trains

We set up the trains in the playroom yesterday. Zach just loves to build a gigantic track (and often asks me for more track) but we don't have many hard surfaces upstairs so the track keeps breaking apart on our carpet.

So today I pondered what we owned that could suffice as a track until we can create something for him. I remembered that I had a pretty sturdy cardboard sewing cutting board. Since it hasn't had much use lately I thought it just couldn't hurt to try.

They absolutely love it! The track still breaks apart some at the cutting board seams, but it works much better than on the carpet plus they can move around the board and play very easily. In the picture above is Hannah and Zach feeding their goldfish crackers to the trains while the hot Texas sun blazes in from one of the skylights.

Kid Free Zone

Chad and I got an amazing treat this weekend. Around 5:00 Friday evening, we waved good-bye to the kids as they drove away with Grandmommy and Papa. We then let out an elated sigh as we did whatever we wanted on any schedule that suited us.

Friday night was packed with a stop to the sports store to pick up Chad's mended club, dinner at Outback (where we ran into two of our dear friends who were also on a date!), stops at Family Christian, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Lowe's and Walmart. We stayed up until after 11:00 because we knew we could sleep in the next morning!

Saturday dawned . . . and we buried into the covers. We leisurely ate breakfast then went garage sale shopping in our neighborhood. We bought some fun goodies, made new friends, and gabbed with old friends. Then we came back to the glorious air conditioning and I made a late brunch which even included homemade hash browns. Who says I don't remember how to use my Kitchen Aid attachments? At 1:00 we headed up to Cindy's School of Dance and signed Hannah up for her first dance class! Then we came back and enjoyed the afternoon doing whatever our little hearts desired. I cleaned up the entire upstairs and even washed all the bedding and organized my schoolroom bookcase with my newly purchased organizing items. We had a late supper and watched GI Joe which was very fun and very action packed!

Sunday arrived and even without the kids, we were somehow late! I think I dawdled too long thinking I had tons of time. We watched TV while eating lunch on TV trays (ah, those were the days) and then just had some relaxing time for the afternoon.

I will admit that I cranked up Enrique Iglesias and Abba while I worked in the playroom. I will also admit that after the floor was cleared, I used the entire space as a dance floor. Yes, I am a dancing Baptist and, yes, I do have rhythm. lol

So now I go to put my shoes on and head out to pick up the kids. It has been a very relaxing and very enjoyable weekend. I'm starting to miss the kids a little, but I really think I could go a few more days and be just fine! Thanks Bill and Susie for offering R&R to this Mommy & Daddy. You two rock!

Even more for sale!

China Doll with soft body $20

Shopping cart cover and changing pad $10 set

Fisher-Price Brilliant Basics Stacking Action Blocks $3

Care Bear Musical Toy $3

Toy plays music and lights up when belly is pressed.

Little Einsteins Baby Neptune Activity Toy $8

Girls Shoes sizes 2/3 $20 for lot

Girls Shoes size 4 $15 for lot

More for sale

Boppy Nursing and Baby Pillow $10

This hard-to-find nursing pillow includes two pockets.



Graco Pack-n-Play $40

This was my mom's and only used for visiting grandbabies. Includes bassinet and mobile. Folds for easy storage. Instructions included.

Baby Einstein DVD's $2 each or $5 for set

Includes Animal Expedition, First Words-Around the House, and Music Festival.

Lamaze Chime Garden $10

This sweet little toy plays music in three different settings and lights up when the child presses on a flower. Instructions included.



Baby Lotion $10 for lot

We have a little one with hypersensative skin so none of these items ever got used.

Fisher-Price Barnyard Basics - Let's Go Bowling $8

The ball says "moooooo" as it rolls to knock the pins down! Original carry case and instructions included.

Baby Safe Feeder and replacement bags $8

An ingenious little contraption that allows you to give your teething child fruit and veggies to suck on without the fear of choking on pieces of food. The mesh bags are removable for washing or replacing as needed. Two feeders included.

Little Tikes Melody Beads Piano $10

This cute hard-to-find toy plays different types of music or animal sounds when the child touches a key or pulls on the colorful bars. Instructions included.

Smith Garage Sale

As the youngest Smith members have been growing, we have come to realize that it is time to let go of some of our infant equipment. I will be doing a few different posts with all the equipment and toys we are selling. If you would like to see a piece in person or ask any questions, feel free to call or email me.

Graco Duo Glider Double Stroller $75 - NOT recalled
Includes two snack trays, a parent tray with clock / temp, 5 or 3 point harness, large storage bin, full recline in rear seat, and rear seat holds most Graco infant car seats. Instructions included.

Graco Contempo High Chair $45

I bought this for my second high chair when I had two little ones and it has been used only as needed, usually just for guests. Stores at just 7 inches wide! Adjustable height. Instructions included.

Baby Trend Infant Car Seat w/base $8

This item was donated to our old MOPS group. It is missing the sun screen but is otherwise in terrific shape. Instructions and sun screen frame included.

Evenflo Triumph Car Seat $40

This was in my mom's car for a few years and then I used it very briefly. For children 5-40 pounds for rear or forward facing. Instructions included.

Evenflo Mega ExerSaucer Active Learning Center $25

Has three heights and includes all accessories shown. Instructions included.

Enspira / Eddie Bauer Deluxe Convertible Car Seat $40

For children 5-80 pounds. Includes detachable cup holder and two side pockets. For front or rear facing. Instructions included.

Happy Birthday John!

We were very excited to attend my step-dad's 50th birthday party today. There were loads of family members there and it was so nice to get to see Aunt Carol and Uncle Jim, who live down near Houston.

Look at this amazing cake that my awesome sissy made!

It was chocolate and she had even made tools all around it! Yes, my sister totally rocks.

The kids had fun playing at Mamaw and PawPaw's with some relatives they don't see too often.

Here's me and my handsome hubby. Man, am I really that short? lol

Cute Pic of Zach and Kittens

The Yellow House Closes

Many of you know that I have a home business called The Yellow House. I love working with arts & crafts and thought that might be a terrific outlet for my creativity.

Well, three young children, homeschooling, children's ministry, and various other duties have taken precedence over these hobbies.

I prayed over this for nearly two years. I know that I did not consult God on the opening of the business and it really has created problems for me since I chose to go out on this limb by myself. I could almost hear God's voice in my head this week as I was driving up my driveway. And I knew that it was time to be obedient.

Surprisingly, I was excited to call and close the business. It was like a weight lifting off my shoulders. That's just how obedience feels. Freedom - pure and simple.

My hope is that God will allow me to reopen the business one day. But this time I plan on praying about it first!

Changes

I attended a Girlfriends Unlimited event last week. They are always so much fun and I always learn something new. The sessions I chose to attend included how to make a t-shirt quilt and blogging basics.

The t-shirt quilt class was so cool. I wish I had time to learn to quilt. I know that my children will not be quite so demanding in just a few short years so I am trying to savor this season of life. Arts & crafts will always be around the learn, the sweet little faces of my growing babies will not. So I'll just add this nifty hobby to my list of things I would like to learn one day.

Next we had a keynote speaker who taught us how to pack more healthier lunches. This was so timely for me because I am trying to feed my family in a more healthy manner. So I learned tons of stuff from this plus learned about two books I need to read.

Finally I attended the blogging basics session. I obviously already blog, but I felt that it was kind of bland and could be spiced up a little. So you may note that I got a new background, picked a new family picture and I will work on adding some music when I get a little more spare time.

Sometimes change is very fun and very good!

It's a Boy, er, a Girl

We have two new darling kittens, Rocky and Candy. Candy appeared to have a UTI this morning, so I decided to take both of them in for initial check-ups, shots, etc.

Now, kittens are pretty tough to determine genders, even for vets. After a few weeks of inspections and observations,, I determined that Candy was a girl (and was named because Hannah loves candy) and the more feisty, daring, and slightly larger kitten was a boy (named Rocky because Zach loves rocks).

So imagine my shock when I learned that Rocky was, in fact, a very feisty, very daring, slightly larger GIRL! Oh dear. We are going to keep her name because it fits her all the same. Ha, ha!

Here is an older picture of her. No matter the gender, they are both very sweet, lovable and very playful. They have been a terrific addition to the family!