Captain Andrew Michael

This boy has taught and continues to teach me to stay focused on the bigger picture...on the man he will one day become...on the lives that he will greatly impact...on eternity.

If you have been in our lives for many years, you will not be surprised by the following statement.

Parenting Andrew ain't always been easy.

In fact, he was the most strong-willed toddler that I have ever met.  During his early years, our relationship would have best been described as the generals of opposing sides of WWIII.

Fast forward 10 years to today...
Andrew has spent the week at a highly competitive Nike basketball camp.  Five out of the 60 athletes were recognized for their athletic ability, character, sportsmanship, and teach-ability.  Andrew brought home one of those awards.  The coach shared that the 5 campers displayed what he searches for while watching recruitment videos.

Momma if you are:

*the owner of a dog earned, wrinkled, juice stained, copy of "The Strong-Willled Child"
*seriously researching Asperger's and behavioral issues
*always the parent of "that" child
*routinely crying yourself to sleep
*feeling alone in your parenting journey

Be encouraged by our story.  Stay focussed on the bigger picture.  Know that God has the most amazing plans for you and your child.  Keep up the good fight (literally).  You are not alone.  I remember.  I can now say that I am so thankful for my strong-willed child.

A Month of Thankfulness Day 28

This may sound incredibly crazy, but lately I have been concerned by the fact that my children have never went without anything.  This is a definite blessing, but there are several lessons that have went unlearned.  I strongly believe that in order to be good financial stewards they need to be able to distinguish between wants and real needs.

Thankfully (don't call the authorities or grandmas) several situations have presented themselves in which Olivia actually (sort-of/ kind-of) needs something, specifically new tennis shoes.  Her tennis shoes which she only wears twice a week are starting to fall apart.  She is horrified, embarrassed, and constantly making me aware of her need.

(Insert...Poor Olivia!)

Just for the record, I could and have been very tempted to rush out and replace her worn tennis shoes with a perfect, sparkly, white pair.  However, I recognize this opportunity for growth, and today I am thankful for such situations which lead to heart changing conversations.

The gift card for a new pair of tennis shoes has been purchased, wrapped, and placed under the Christmas tree.  I am certain that she will treasure them even more because she had to wait an extra 27 days.

I am hoping that the gift of waiting and making do will last a lot longer than this next pair of Sketchers.

A Month of Thankfulness Day 15

I am overwhelmingly thankful for the fact that God loves my children even more than I love them.

If you read this blog regularly or know my son personally, this will not come as a big surprise.  He is of the anxious type.  I am confident that he was born with deep, deep thoughts.   He has always been wise beyond his years.

Several years ago, he went through a period of time when he was over-the-top anxious.  He was consumed and paralyzed by irrational fears.  Scott and I researched, discussed, blamed, questioned, participated in constant dialogue, and cried out to God.  I was emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted.  I was convinced that I was the wrong choice of mothers for this precious boy.  My heart was broken.  My child felt broken, and I was the only one to blame.

While on my face before God one dreary evening, I heard His voice.  He lovingly said, "Michelle, this is something that you can't fix for Andrew.  This is between Andrew and Me.  I am the only one who can fix his brokenness."

I (his mother) am not his god.  In times of heightened anxiety, I have learned to step back and direct Andrew to his Creator, the Lover of his soul.  I learned to rest in the fact that God loves him even more.  God is all that he needs.  I am just a bonus.

This simple knowledge was a breakthrough for our family.  Andrew has learned scripture to combat Satan's lies.  He has learned to turn to God and trust in His promises.

A few words of encouragement for all the mommas on the front lines:

*God masterfully created your child with a purpose and chose you to be his /her mother.

*God gave each mother the strength and ability to train her children.  God is confident in His choice.

*God doesn't make mistakes.  Your child's weakness will in some way bring glory to God.

*God doesn't ask you to do this alone.  He is always present.  He is watching, guiding, and speaking.  We just have to stop and listen.

Thank you God for your perfect, unfailing love for my children.

A Month of Thankfulness Day 14

Do you ever have situations or circumstances happen in your life that bring back a vivid childhood memory?

This very thing happened to me yesterday.

Andrew had a mild case of poison ivy on his face, and it was spreading awfully close to his right eye.  It was obvious when he woke up yesterday morning that a doctor's visit was in order.

When I was in the 4th grade (a really difficult year for me might I add), my brother and I both had a nasty encounter with poison ivy.  It would be an understatement to say that we are both highly allergic.  I had huge, nasty blisters between a lot of my fingers.  It was miserable!  Michael, my brother, had it on his face incredibly close to (if not in) his eyes.  My wonderful parents had to make an agonizing decision.  They could only afford to take one of us to see the doctor, and even then it was a financial stretch.

Side note:
A business decision left them in an overwhelming amount of debt.  In fact, they were encouraged by many to file bankruptcy.  They prayerfully decided to take the hard, usually untraveled road of climbing out of debt one hard earned dollar at a time.  Needless to say, money was extremely tight for several years.  I am happy to report that they have now been debt free for many, many years.

Even as a young child, I understood their decision to take Michael.  This is my earliest memory of sacrificing for the betterment of someone else.

As I look back, I am so very thankful for this opportunity.  It is one example of how God used an uncomfortable stiuation in my life to mold me into the person that I am today. 

I am thankful for my parents who faithfully took responsibility for their choices and debt.  They taught me the value of a dollar, the value of hard work, the value of personal sacrifice, and the burden of debt.

I am thankful that we had the money to take Andrew to the doctor.  If we hadn't, my parents (without a doubt) would have made it happen.

A Month of Thankfulness-Day 10

I am thankful for the gift of being a mother. I have never taken this privilege for granted. However, after being diagnosed with endometriosis a few months ago, the doctor stated, "Given your current condition, I am shocked that you didn't struggle to conceive!" My children are without a doubt precious gifts from my Heavenly Father.

I am so very thankful for the simple moments spent making memories with my miracles.  I am determined to parent with no regrets.

My prayer is that God will bless us with more of these special gifts.

Andrew and Olivia, thank you for making me a mommy!  I adore you both.

Month of Thankfulness-Day 8

I am thankful for football.

Football:

-brings an extra sparkle into my little man's eyes.

-gives me a reason to purchase cute stocking hats.

-is a definite connection point for the men in my life.

-is a fall staple. 

-is a perfect excuse to drink hot chocolate while snuggled up in a cozy quilt with this sweetie.

-is a constant conversation topic with Andrew.

-is a sport that I am struggling to fully understand.

-is going to be an integral part of the rest of my life.  My kiddo loves it...therefore, I will love it too!

So...What is an interception?  Exactly what does the tight end do?  Is there a yellow flag?

Andrew may be too big to:
-watch Sesame Street
-play with Thomas Trains
-read Picture Books
-hold my hand while crossing the street
-say "dwink" instead of "drink"
-sit on my shoulders
-carry to bed
-think that I am the smartest person in the world
-ride in a car seat
-wear engineer overalls

but he will never be too big to snuggle his momma....

 hopefully.

I Am a Raisin' a Husband

On September 1, Sweet Scotty and I attended the beautiful wedding of two of our favorite people (Joel and Hannah). I spent the morning assembling unique, vintage centerpieces. Several times throughout the morning, the groom's adorable mother captured my attention. Her role in Joel's life sure has drastically changed. I wondered if she was reliving precious snapshots in time.  She had spent years preparing him for this task, the task of being an honorable husband. I was quickly reminded (again) that I am training and preparing the future husband of a beautiful, precious girl who I already love and cherish. On that beautifully decorated porch, I couldn't help but imagine the joy that I will experience on Andrew's special day.

The task seems overwhelming at times.  Thankfully, I can put my trust in God.  This little man is not mine alone.  Not to mention, he has the perfect role model.

My Weekend Vacation

I woke up on Friday morning with severe stomach pain on my right side. It felt like I was in hard labor.  By noon, Scott and I both became worried that it was not just a touch of the stomach flu.  I didn't have any interest in having a conversation with him, and I couldn't complete a sentence without moaning and groaning.  After googling my symptoms, Scott scheduled a doctor's appointment.  The doctor sent me to the ER.  To make a long story short, they *think* that it was my appendix.  I spent 2 long, sleepless nights in the hospital being pumped full of antibiotics and fluids.  It was an absolute blast!  I did have a few lovely, interesting nurses.  In fact, one sweet lady still wears all white with the adorable nurse's hat, and she hasn't watched TV since the late 70's.  She was an absolute delight!  It was like stepping back in time.  

Scott had a super duper Important (with a capital I) business trip scheduled for Sunday through Wednesday.  After much consideration, we decided that he should not cancel his trip.  Deana was left to get me home from the hospital.  I am still not sure that was the best plan because we laughed so hard that I was sore Sunday evening.  She took the following photo.  I was being a little dramatic.  Just a little...

I was completely overwhelmed (in a good way) with all the messages, phone calls, texts, and facebook comments.  I am obviously loved!  We also couldn't have survived the weekend without our sweet mommas.    Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Parenting Isn't For the Weak

Don't be fooled by this sweet, innocent, adorable face.  IT HAS BEEN A LONG AFTERNOON!  In fact, I snapped this photo as she was sitting on the porch debating whether or not to run away.

I was in need of a few things for our newly decorated guest room (photos to come soon).  We stopped by Target, and she wanted everything.  The whining and mini-meltdowns continued as we walked down every aisle.  I let them each pick out a lunchable for the last day of school.  This is a true treat in our house.  Seconds later, I gently informed her that if she complained about anything else, I would return her lunchable to the shelf.  Sure enough, there was drama over picking out a toothbrush.  I learned a long time ago that as a parent, I must follow through.  Well...that really set her off.  Her actions embarrassed both myself and Andrew.  She started screaming, "You are a mean, mean, mean mommy, and I am going to run away!"  I assured her that she would be deeply missed.  Andrew said, (and I quote) "Oli, I learned a long time ago that doesn't work."  We could not get out of Target fast enough.

I thought that such tantrums were a thing of the past.  Bummer!  Anyhoo...thankful she decided not to run away.

Andrew did tell her, "Mom is taking your last photo before you run away!"

Olivia, even in Target, I thanked God for the opportunity to be your mother.  It is a privilege to train you in the ways of the Lord.  And...I am not mean!

Grandpa's Garden

We helped grandpa with his garden on Saturday. 

 We did some tilling, weeding, hoeing, and planting. 

 We love honoring our parents in front of our children.

I can taste home-grown tomatoes even as I write.

Grandma also sent us home with a bouquet of dogwood and lilacs.  

Little House in the Big Woods

O and I have been reading, "Little House in the Big Woods". I am embarrassed to say that I have never read this book. We are both enjoying the book and the special bonding time.  On this particular afternoon, O wanted to read the book outside.  

She is 6!

My baby is 6!

It is hard to believe that six years ago I held this perfect baby in my arms, and now I get to hold this perfect 6 year in my arms.  She definitely owns part of my heart! 

Olivia, you are full of personality, smart, funny, talented, kind, and a lover of life.

Thank you God for sharing this precious little girl with me! 

We are planning the perfect Pinkalicious Party!

The Toothless Smile

We had our dentist check-ups today.  Another 6 months without a cavity!  Woo Hoo!  Dr. Mark encouraged me to take a lot of photos of A's toothless smile.  (He obviously doesn't know me very well.)  He then proceeded to say that he will never look this way again.  Something about adult teeth makes little boys grow up overnight.  Seriously?!  I am not ashamed to say that I shed a few tears right then and there.  My little boy is so quickly turning into a little man!  Boy am I proud of the little man that he is becoming!



The Way We Dress....

Daddy managed to embarrass you (Andrew) by buying and proudly wearing this jacket.

You said, "Why do you want to look like a fire fighter?"

You are constantly stating, "Hi firefighter!"

You are horrified!

(Notice how much it is bothering your father.

We are just preparing ourselves for the teenage years!)

I am ALL about letting you (Olivia) control your wardrobe.

I quickly forget/often fail to notice the way you are dressed.

On Friday, I overheard a family giggling as they walked behind us.

I casually glanced back, and the mother commented, "It looks like you are raising Punky Brewster!"

That is the perfect way to describe it!