The Church Chronicles

Dinsmores in Berlin

2012-01-17T23:43:00.002-05:00

My friends Katie, Roddy and their two boys are moving to Berlin this year.

Pray for them. Follow them www.dinsmoresinberlin.wordpress.com . You can even support them (details on their blog).

Praying for you guys and super excited about what God is going to do in Berlin!

under the tree

2011-12-11T15:32:00.004-05:00

look at my sweet 4 month old under the tree! best christmas present this year!

who needs baby toys? a tree provides hours of entertainment :)

short and sweet

2011-08-11T12:07:00.005-04:00

yesterday andrew turned 2 weeks. he is a great baby. sleeps good and eats great!

1 week old

2 weeks old

i love him and i'm pretty sure he loves me!

Welcome to our world!

2011-07-29T03:33:00.004-04:00

I am excited to introduce to you my sweet son, Andrew McClain Church!

Born Wednesday, July 27th at 2:38pm.
7 pounds, 12 ounces
21 2/3 inches long

He is doing great and is the perfect addition to our family.

Andrew means "warrior" and that is exactly what he was the day of his birth!

Thank you Lord for this precious gift! May he come to know YOU at a very early age and may you give us the grace and wisdom to raise him up to walk in Your way!

A baby story...

2011-07-29T02:47:00.008-04:00

I wanted to write down the details of Andrew's birth while fresh in my mind. This may be too much info for some people. just skip down or wait for me next post (the announcement). So after 40+ weeks of waiting, we decided to schedule an induction for July 27th. The good news about an induction is that I was assured my doctor would be delivering and we could make plans for who would watch the other 2 boys. So at 5 am we get up and call the hospital. They tell us to be there by 6:15. On the drive there, we are still discussing names. We had talked off and on about Andrew. I went to turn on some music and it was one of my favorite Andrew Peterson CD's and I got excited to think that was a confirmation. When we got to the hospital, they sent us to a waiting room because they needed more nurses. The fun part was, our friends the Milnes were already in the waiting room. They were waiting on the arrival of their first grandson. Meg had been laboring (2 1/2 weeks early) since 11 pm or so. So our babies were born on the same day.

I got into a room around 7 and given the IV, etc. We had to wait on doctor to get pitocin, so we just hung out for a while. Finally at 9 am the Dr came in. She broke my bag of water and then at 10 am they started pitocin. It was a super busy morning on the labor/delivery floor so my nurse was going back and forth between another patient and me. I think that is why it took an hour for them to start the pitocin. Everyone kept telling me that since this was my 3rd baby and I was already 4 cms dilated that I should not wait too long for the epidural. Honestly once the pitocin started it only took a few contractions and I was ready for the epidural. By the time they gave me the epidural, my contractions were so intense I was about in tears.
I got the epidural around 11-12. It is an amazing drug. After that it all seemed to go very fast.

The nurses checked me and I was 7 cm and a few minutes later I was 9. Everything was going fast and smooth. I thought, we are having a baby before lunch! Woo-hoo! Can't wait to eat-ha! Then it was time to push. It only took a few pushes with Evan, so we all expected this little guy to just "fall out". NOT THE CASE. His heart rate was dropping with every contraction. That meant he was under some distress. It could be the cord wrapped around him, etc. Also, instead of being head down, he was facing sideways. The doctor tried to turn, tried to use the "vacuum" to help pull him and after me pushing for over an hour. This boy was not coming out!

So then the doctor said, we can keep pushing, but I am afraid he may get stuck (shoulder coming out first) or I may tear really bad. The biggest problem was his heart rate. So she gave us the option to keep trying but felt like we were going to have to resort to a c-section to get him out. So we tried and prayed and I pushed with all my might one last time and decided that we needed to get him out. Through lots of tears (from fear and exhaustion) they got me ready for the c-section.

C-section was quick and easy and in just a short time I heard the most beautiful sound. WHAA WHAA WAHH! Oh the joy of that first cry and loud, working, breathing lungs. Thank you Jesus. 2:38 pm, Andrew McClain was born! 7 lbs 12 ozs. Wow, that is a big baby for me! (My other boys we 6lbs 5 oz and 6lbs 8ozs). I only got to see him a minute or so and then he was taken away with his daddy to go get cleaned up. The next 30 minutes or so, the doctors sewed me up and without knowing it, they gave me some awesome medicine that just made me relax. So I think I slept a little while. Then I had to go to recovery for about an hour.

On a side note, these nurses, the surgery team and my doctor were all amazing. Encouraging, kind and great at doing their jobs. It made everything so peaceful and run smoothly. Finally the brought my little guy back. We still had not officially named him. So Wes and I confirmed Andrew! He nursed right away and did a great job. I was in a lot of pain recovering, but holding him made me forget all of that!

Even though this was my shortest labor, it was the hardest, most emotional day. I am so thankful God took care of me and my little man and that he got here safe no matter how it had to happen.

I have heard many friends say how great a c-section is. It really was quick and easy, but no one told me about the recovery. I mean it is a major surgery and wow, tough! I understand why they keep you an extra day in the hospital. The hardest part for me is not being about to pick up the baby as easily and get up and down out of bed.

It is now 3am and I am wide awake in bed feeling so much better. They had me shower and walk 3 times today. I can not believe I have done it. I do feel a million times better tonight than I did this morning. I also learned quickly to stay on top of my pain meds. Even if I don't think I need it, I am taking it regularly. This afternoon I let my pain catch up with me and that was rough.

Baby Andrew is doing wonderfully well! He eats often and does great eating! I think the fact he was almost 8 pounds makes him a hungry little guy. I do love him, just as much as my other boys. I will write a little more when I do the baby announcement.

Thanks to all who prayed, emailed, texted, visited and prayed some more. Your love and support was needed and appreciated!

Here are a few pics of our day:

still baking

2011-07-23T21:25:00.004-04:00

Yep, baby boy is STILL in the oven. I have decided that contractions and due dates are not my friend. I have never experienced going over my due date. Yesterday (due date) I found myself depressed. I slept most of the day (thank you sweet husband) and just tried not to get emotional. I know that the Lord has a perfect birthdate for this little guy and I am trying to remind myself that His timing is the best time!

The past two days have been wonderful family time with Wes and the boys. I have so many emotions (and hormones) going on. I am trying to enjoy my baby (Evan) before he is no longer my baby (sniff sniff). I am also just loving on Caleb before he grows up any more! They are sweet brothers and I know they will love this little guy so much.

I am being induced early Wednesday morning, so at least we know we get to meet him soon! Thanks for all the calls, texts, emails and prayers! I am so blessed to be surrounded by such a wonderful family in Christ!

Next post will be a BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT! YIPPEE!

Living LARGE at 39 weeks.

Potty training, toddler chasing, baby waiting...

2011-07-05T21:35:00.002-04:00

That about sums up my days lately. I am way to exhausted to take the boys anywhere (poor boys) and it is way too hot for these hormones. So we spend most days in the house, watching Blues Clues or something really exciting like that. I spend most of my day taking Caleb back and forth to potty, telling Evan to get down, get off, leave your brother alone, etc and not-so-patiently waiting on this other little guy to join us.

On a more exciting note, lots of family came to help us get this house ready yesterday. THANK YOU! We have finally moved Caleb into his new room! He loves it. We are working on moving Evan and then the nursery will be vacant for it's newest occupant.

I went to the Doctor today, she thinks baby will be here soon. Since we did the same thing with Evan, I am not getting my hopes up. I am almost 3 cm dilated though, so that is good news! Either way, due date is only 3 Fridays away!

I hope this does not sound like complaining, I am just giving a little update on what life is like in our house right now. It is a sweet season. I am trying to cherish each moment with my boys before our family has a big change.

countdown

2011-06-23T22:41:00.003-04:00

Well, tomorrow I am 36 weeks! That means we will meet our youngest son in 4 weeks (or less).
I went to the doctor today and things are moving in the right direction. I was most excited to hear that he is head down! He has been breach almost the entire time! Praise the Lord. Let's hope he stays that way! I am also 2 cm dilated! So all of these random, inconsistent contractions I am having are doing something! Yay!

So things are getting very real. I am very overwhelmed at the thought of labor, adding another child and the demands of a newborn. But I am also so excited to meet and cuddle this sweet sweet little boy.

And if you are wondering, we still have no name. Typical ;)

7 months later

2011-05-30T21:51:00.008-04:00

Wow, no blog for 7 months?! I know you have missed hearing all about our exciting life. Well for all (2) of you who asked me for an update, here you go...

We have had a busy past 7 months, watching our little guys grow up (way too fast)!
Caleb will be 3 this Friday and Evan is 17 months old. They are just a joy! They are busy, busy boys.

Caleb currently loves puzzles and the movie "Muppets take Manhatten". He wants to do everything "by myself". He LOVES to sing and sing loud! He is so much fun and a really good helper too.

Evan is into everything. He is constantly exploring, climbing, jumping, running and never still. He is so sweet and loveable, but now has a fiesty side. I call him my wild man.

Baby boy #3 is growing bigger, as is my belly. He still does not have a name, but his due date is less than 8 weeks away! We can not wait to meet him.

We have lots to do before then. We are getting a new room ready for Caleb, which will eventually be shared with Evan. We are painting and have new matching twin beds, with cute bedspreads! We are getting a fence (very necessary with 2 wild boys) and hopefully new carpet in our living room.

We are enjoying the summer with the boys. Day time beach trips, family outings, visting with family and friends. Just soaking it all in before another big life change.

I am going to try to get better at blogging again. The reason I quit is becuase I finally joined facebook and do most pictures and updates there.

Love to all!

The big 10

2010-10-27T00:23:00.004-04:00

Happy 10 months my sweet Evan!

Evan is the most laid back, happy, snuggly baby!

He LOVES his big brother and wants to be just like him.

I can not belive how fast he is growing up!

Thank you Lord for this sweet little man!

Our little "Evan from Heaven"

Clean water

2010-10-15T11:15:00.005-04:00

This is Caroline. Beautiful smile, right? She's smiling because she's drinking clean water for the first time. She used to walk three hours every day to fetch dirty water. But not anymore. Her village just got a well. Clean water will change everything for Caroline and her community. For every Caroline, there are millions more children hoping to smile like that. Almost a billion people on the planet don't have clean water right now. Who knows how many people you will impact. This is where it begins. Start a campaign, create a group, invite your friends. Give up your birthday, climb a mountain and run a marathon. And smile. Because what you do here changes lives.

I am donating from my jewelry shows and raising awareness! Please help me with a goal of $5000 by December 31st! This will help an entire community of 250 people have CLEAN WATER!

http://mycharitywater.org/jewelry

Trusting God the Way We Should

2010-09-16T21:27:00.000-04:00

Trusting God the Way We Should | Gifted for Leadership | Women Called to Ministry

This article spoke to me so loudly today...I wanted to share!

Wonderfile

2010-09-15T23:39:00.004-04:00

Staying up until 11:39 tonight has been very beneficial because I saw the most amazing infomercial...

THE WONDERFILE!

Can I just tell you that I NEED this! It is the answer to all of my organizational dysfunction!!

I am a woman of many "piles". Piles of bills to pay, magazines to read, things to do, coupons to use (maybe one day), newsletters to read. Premier stuff. Bible study stuff. Mom stuff. Wife stuff. Kids stuff.

Just two minutes ago I found the answer! THE WONDERFILE!

I almost called the number because you get two for $19.95 (plus S&H)!

I will wait and sleep on it, but I am already dreaming about what color to get...
Black? Red? or Plaid?

I wonder if it really is wonderful?

Radiant

2010-09-11T21:19:00.002-04:00

You're invited to come hear Marian Jordan of Redeemed Girl Ministries as she teaches women of all ages to live as they were called to live - as radiant lights for Christ.

Marian is the founder of Redeemed Girl Ministries. She is an active speaker, guest lecturer, and published author. She is a graduate of Southwestern Seminary and lives in Houston where she serves at her home church, Second Baptist Church of Houston, when not on the road at speaking engagements. To learn more about Marian and Redeemed Girl Ministries visit www.redeemedgirl.org

The Radiant Tour 2010 from Marian Jordan on Vimeo.

Evan Graham

2010-08-11T21:59:00.005-04:00

This little boy has stolen my heart! His smile can light up a room!

I really have not posted much about Evan or taken many pics-- so here are a few to make up for the slack--

poor 2nd child...

always be my baby

2010-08-07T22:34:00.005-04:00

Tonight I put Evan to bed and when I walked out he was still playing in his crib. About 5 minutes later, I walked back in and he was STANDING, hanging onto the side of the crib.

Freaked me out! So of course I had to get Wes to lower his crib right away!

Where is my baby boy? Why do you have to grow up so fast, baby Evan!

This year has flown by! I can not believe Evan is almost 8 months old! He has 2 bottom teeth and four more peeking through the top. He army crawls...fast...to chase his big brother Caleb around the house. A few days ago he started pulling up on some "shorter" objects. His signature look is his mohawk. He has had it since birth, but now it's becoming more like a mini-fro...I love it!

He is a true joy and one of the SWEETEST babies you will ever meet.

Win a necklace

2010-07-06T09:56:00.007-04:00

I am giving away this beautiful necklace...check out this blog and read their story about their adoption journey!

http://richardandbrantley.blogspot.com/

it broke

2010-06-21T10:42:00.001-04:00

Caleb "Oh no, it broke! My doughnut broke"

Me "Caleb, your doughnut did not break, you ate it"

just some fun pics...

2010-06-17T23:33:00.006-04:00

Caleb's birthday breakfast

my handsome fellas

evan and daddy at the beach

iPAD

2010-06-05T22:30:00.004-04:00

So a few months ago, Wes got to visit the apple store in Augusta, GA and check out the new iPad. He was blown away with it! I would love to get him one for Father's day or birthday, etc...however it is way out of our budget.

Then I get an email today with the opportunity to earn one FREE through referrals.

Well I am pumped!

I use this awesome website, ebates.com. Any time I shop online, I go to ebates first and link to where I want to shop. Just for going through the ebates site, you get cash back! (I got my first check a month or so ago)!

This is where I need YOUR help. If I refer 50 people to sign up and shop through the site, I can win a free iPad!! I really want to win this for Wes b/c I know he would LOVE IT! I know 50 people is a lot, but I am up for the challenge. I have until July 31 to make this goal!

In order for me to get credit, please go through this link:
http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=IFRyd309pIO2RJ4UDbqmAg%3D%3D

You also get a bonus $5 cash or gift card when you join (free).

Thanks for helping me out!!! Really, you're the best!

It's TRUE...

2010-06-02T23:56:00.007-04:00

He's TWO!!

I can not even believe Caleb is 2 today!!!

He is a joy and a delight and I am so thankful God let me be his mommy!

June 3, 2008

April 9, 2010

We love you sweet boy! Mommy, Dada and baby bruder

I have a confession...

2010-05-31T21:15:00.000-04:00

She's here...

2010-05-26T23:51:00.004-04:00

My dear friends Brooke & Brian
just had their first baby,
sweet Addison Blaine

Born May 25th,2010 at 5:39pm

Weighing 9 pounds, 2 ounces and 20 1/2 inches long! Wow!

Welcome little one!

Addison and proud daddy Brian

current obsessions

2010-05-21T06:48:00.004-04:00

Caleb is such a fun and funny little guy. Here are some of his current obsessions:

batteries- he loves batteries, his favorite thing is to take them out of the remotes and "hide them"
stickers- peel and re stick ones are the best, hours of entertainment
pouring water from one object to another- he could play in sink or bath forever
lotions and hand sanitizer- he tries to snag these off my bathroom counter
chap stick- if you let him have some he will walk around reapplying over and over
milk- he loves me-yilk, he would drink it all day long
dancing- he loves to dance and wants you to dance with him (especially his daddy)

2010-04-23T12:59:00.001-04:00

work in progress

2010-04-23T12:58:00.001-04:00

working on this VERY large file-- will fix soon-- more fabulous pictures from brooketurnerphotography.com to come!!

What does Caleb think?

2010-04-11T22:42:00.008-04:00

People ask me all of the time, "What does Caleb think about his little brother Evan?"

He LOVES him!

Every day (many times a day) he says, "Hole baby, Kiss baby, Baby bruder, Baby Evan"

baby Evan

2010-04-11T07:58:00.003-04:00

Sweet baby Evan is growing up so fast!

I love the 3 month mark! He is so smiley and interactive! It is amazing how quickly they change and grow!

6 weeks

7 weeks

8 weeks

9 weeks

10 weeks

11 weeks

12 weeks

13 weeks

14 weeks

15 weeks

16 weeks (almost)

come sail away

2010-03-31T11:59:00.009-04:00

we're back! did you miss us? we just spent 7 days on the Norwegian Cruise Line's "Pearl"! it was fabulous! 4 stops- Samana, Tortola, St Thomas and Great Stirrup Cay.
no changing diapers, no late night feedings...just fun, sun, R&R and some quality time with my man

i won this trip through my amazing company, Premier Designs Jewelry (thank you Premier). this trip was also made possible by mimi & pop (wes's parents) thank you for taking care of our babies! you get the "grandparents of the year" award!

here are a few pictures:

samana, dominican republic

st thomas, usvi

the fam (mom and sis won the trip too)

waterfall in Samana

mom, me and sis

Best kept secret

2010-02-17T21:22:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday, we went to a concert at our church given by the Gettys!

This incredibly anointed couple, Keith and Kristyn Getty are modern hymn writers. Going there I only knew 2 songs, "In Christ Alone" and "The Power of the Cross".

If I had only known what a powerful night this would have been, I would have invited everyone of you!!

These songs are so rich with scripture and point you to worship, love, commit, depend on, focus on and rejoice in our awesome Savior!

And her voice-- wow...a powerful sound out of a little woman with a beautiful Irish accent! Love it!

Here is a clip of one song they sang...it really does not do it justice-- please get both of the Getty's CDs...it will bless your socks off!

www.gettymusic.com

6 weeks

2010-01-30T20:23:00.010-05:00

Where has the time gone? I can not believe Evan will be 6 weeks this Monday!

Here are some pics of the first 5 weeks:

1 week old

2 weeks old

3 weeks old

4 weeks old

5 weeks old

Isn't he a handsome little man?!

still here

2010-01-26T23:10:00.003-05:00

what? you have 2 babies and never have time to blog (or even read a blog) again?

we are still here...

things are going great! still learning and adjusting...

will post pics of the growing boys soon

love to all

christmas favs

2009-12-28T21:25:00.008-05:00

my new love...

2009-12-22T06:37:00.003-05:00

"I'm in love. I'm in love. And I don't care who knows it." - Buddy the Elf

Well I have a confession... I am now in love with 3 men!

Wes, Caleb and Evan!!

I really did not know I could love another soooooo much!

I would like to introduce you to my newest love...

Evan Graham
Born December 21, 2009

5:06pm
6lbs 8 oz
19 1/4 in

Thanks for all your prayers. Everything went very smoothly and we are all healthy and resting!

December 21st

2009-12-18T14:19:00.001-05:00

My doctor's office called and said they were able to get me in on Dec 21 (my due date) for an induction! Yippee!

So if Evan does not make his appearance this weekend, we will have our little boy on Dec 21st!

Your prayers are appreciated!

no room in the inn

2009-12-16T20:58:00.002-05:00

Today I decided that I would go to my doctors appointment and ask to be induced. I have been nervous about that decision, but my doctor offered it to me a few weeks ago. Problem now is the hospital is FULL! Even on my due date! Everyone is trying to have their babies before Christmas. So we will just wait and see.

Next appointment is at 9 am on my due date (Dec 21).

I am now 3 cm and 75% effaced so maybe it will be tonight (I say that about every night-ha).

Thanks for all of your words of encouragement and prayers. We can not wait to meet this little man, what a special Christmas it will be!

39

2009-12-14T10:12:00.002-05:00

I really did not think I would still be pregnant at 39 weeks. Neither did my doctor. I guess this little guy still needs to grow.

I am now hoping I go in to labor either tomorrow or on my due date (Dec 21) becuase my doctor is on call both of those days- ha!

It is exciting the really any day now he could be here! What a great Christmas gift!

I go back to the doctor on Wednesday, so if nothing happens between now and then, I will give you an update!

Santa baby...

2009-12-12T15:23:00.004-05:00

So Caleb met Santa today (Dutch Sq Mall-- free-- bring your own camera).

He loved it. He was very intrigued. He kept saying "Danta" "Danta".

update

2009-12-10T22:13:00.003-05:00

well i am excited to say my due date is now less than 11 days away! i was so sure i was going to have this little boy early, but he has other plans!

i went to the doctor today and have not progressed much since last week. she still does not think i will make it full term, but only time will tell.

i was watching "i did not know i was pregnant" on TLC (which is the craziest show by the way) and these women are having intense pain (contractions) and i am thinking... oh i wish that were me... yes, i think i am a little messed up in the head after 3+ weeks of false alarms...

overall i really do feel good and have tried to keep living life as normal.

so that's my story and i'm stickin to it!

ps this is my 100th post!

sundays

2009-12-07T11:55:00.004-05:00

on the way to church!

on the way home!

EGC

2009-12-05T21:18:00.003-05:00

Maybe, just maybe, if I announce his name, he will come out an meet the world ;)

The name of our second son is Evan Graham Church!

We've been calling him Evan for a while, but finally decided on Graham for the middle name.

Evan means "God is grace"
Graham is a name Wes really liked and says its after the Rev Billy Graham.

So there you have it! We actually named this baby before labor this time!

Can't wait to meet him!

Thankful

2009-12-04T20:35:00.002-05:00

I am so thankful for my wonderful friends who have called to check in on me! I am sorry I have been terrible at returning phone calls. I am just a little anti-social right now (hard to believe I know).

I am feeling pretty good. I have given up on the whole idea that this baby could be here any minute. I am trying to just live life as normal. So maybe something fun will happen like my water will break at Target or in the middle of church!

My only complaint is that I am very easily exhausted. Chasing Caleb around does not make it any easier. I am also thankful for my husband, sister and brother-in-law who have done SO MUCH to help me out! I could NOT do it by myself!

I am thankful that I can just rest and relax while waiting for this little one to get here. God is good and His timing is perfect. So I will wait for Him.

Christmas...a labor of love

2009-12-03T22:42:00.001-05:00

Artist: Andrew Peterson
Album: Behold The Lamb Of God (a must have CD)

It was not a silent night
There was blood on the ground
You could hear a woman cry
In the alleyways that night
On the streets of David's town

And the stable was not clean
And the cobblestones were col
dAnd little Mary full of grace
With the tears upon her face
Had no mother's hand to hold

It was a labor of pain
It was a cold sky above
But for the girl on the ground in the dark
With every beat of her beautiful heart
It was a labor of love

Noble Joseph at her side
Callused hands and weary eyes
There were no midwives to be found
In the streets of David's town
In the middle of the night

So he held her and he prayed
Shafts of moonlight on his face
But the baby in her womb
He was the maker of the moon
He was the Author of the faith
That could make the mountains move

It was a labor of pain
It was a cold sky above
But for the girl on the ground in the dark
With every beat of her beautiful heart
It was a labor of love
For little Mary full of grace
With the tears upon her face
It was a labor of love

Progress

2009-12-02T22:24:00.006-05:00

I went to the Doctor today. Everything looks great. They did another ultrasound to check measurements and they are estimating 6lbs 9 oz right now!

I have still had contractions off and on pretty often, so you can imagine the mind tricks it can play on me. Good news is, I have progressed! I am now 2 cm dilated and 50% effaced. So I guess all these "false contractions" are doing something!

The Dr says she really doubts I will make it to 39 weeks, the girl at the desk said she doubts I will be back for my next appt (next Thurs). I hope the girl at the desk is right.

Until then, I am enjoying spending time with just Caleb. He will be 18 months tomorrow! I can not believe he is already that old! He really is becoming such a big boy and I know he will be a wonderful big brother.

I THINK we have finalized a name for this little one. I have to get Wes's approval to post it. So I will keep you guessing a little longer.

Until then, keep us in your prayers...

a quick update

2009-11-29T21:36:00.001-05:00

yes, i am still pregnant

tomorrow i will be 37 weeks!

i had caleb at 37 weeks, so i am a little excited, but then again, i am not getting my hopes up.

My boys

2009-11-24T12:26:00.002-05:00

love them!

super productive

2009-11-21T10:38:00.003-05:00

for those of you who were wondering, baby #2 is still nestled cozy in my belly! however all of these "false alarms" have really gotten things movin' around our house.

yesterday, wes's mom and dad came down to help us watch caleb while we get some things done around the house. i can not believe how much we got done in half a day!!!

we finished the nursery by hanging window treatments and prints, added shelves and organized caleb's closet, washed more baby clothes, cleaned out the stuff we did not need, vacuumed the entire upstairs, washed the car seat, did the dishes, put up the Christmas tree and other decor, steam mopped the bathrooms, kitchen and hardwoods and much much more!

thank you so much mimi, pop and my wonderful husband!!

since my last post, i have had 2 or 3 episodes where i just knew i was going into labor...then everything calmed down and nothing.

i really do want this baby to grow more. so i am happy a week has gone by, however this wondering/waiting can make you go crazy.

i keep thinking, "this could be my last meal" or "tonight could be the night"

i really am about to go insane. i am reminding myself to enjoy these last days with Caleb and to get as much rest as possible. i also keep trying to tell myself, it could be another 4 weeks, so quit being anxious! only God knows and i am glad He does!

thanks for all the emails, phone calls and text messages! i really appreciate your prayers the most!

Is it time??

2009-11-16T12:17:00.002-05:00

So I have been having a few mild contractions today and some this weekend and it has freaked me out a little. Is it already time to meet our little boy?

I went to the doctor today and they said I am 35 weeks today. Which is a little further along than I was counting. The crazy thing is, I am already progressing. The baby head is down low and I am dilated 1 cm.

This means I could have the baby in a few days OR a few weeks. How is that for a waiting game.

My biggest concern is his weight and lungs, etc. Please pray for our sweet son that he will be completely healthy when it's time!!

belly pics- 34 weeks

2009-11-12T11:37:00.003-05:00

34 weeks!

2009-11-11T10:13:00.003-05:00

I can not believe that I am 34 weeks today! That means baby boy #2 will be here in 6 weeks or less! Caleb was born at 37 weeks, so we will be prepared early this time. Of course you never know.

We just put Caleb in a big boy bed and he loves it, except for when it is time to sleep- ha! Last night he slept in it all night. Nap time has been rough though. Please pray he gets used to the transition soon.

We are working on the nursery. It is painted and all the bedding is washed. We just have to rearrange furniture, since it was our guest bedroom.

I have been sick since Friday and today I am finally feeling better (thank you Jesus). Caleb has also had a runny nose and some coughing. We have taken him to the doctor 2 times and they say it's just a cold and may have to do with his teeth coming in.

He is getting 4 incisors and when they finally come in, he will have a mouth full of 16 teeth!

I am working on posting "belly pictures" for those who have been asking, but I never look real cute these days. I live for comfort...big soft t-shirts and pj pants.

Don't be surprised if you stop by my place and see Christmas decorations. That is next on my to-do list. I figure if it doesn't go up now it will not happen once baby gets here!

Upcoming blogs...baby #2's name! We are getting close! And Christmas pics...

State Fair Fun

2009-10-19T16:40:00.007-04:00

Yesterday we went to that State Fair! It was beautiful outside, but very chilly!

We checked out the livestock. Pigs and rabbits were a favorite. Had some corn dogs, fisk fries and my favorites, the mini-doughnuts (which were also Caleb's favorite).

Caleb and Wes also rode the flying bumblebees! Fun time for all!

My Big Boy!

2009-10-12T10:00:00.007-04:00

I think I am long overdue on posting pictures of Caleb! He is 16 months old now and just a joy!

Partner with me!

2009-10-10T21:47:00.003-04:00

Wes and I just got back from an amazing 2 day conference in Atlanta called Catalyst.

It was refreshing and really helped me refocus on the most important thing in life: JESUS!

I get caught up in daily grind that it is easy for me to lose sight of the ONE who truly matters. When we do focus on Jesus alone, everything else pales in comparison! He is the priority...seek Him first and everything else will fall into place. A simple yet life altering truth!

So my desire and prayer is to fix my eyes on Him and let go of the things that steal my heart away from Him!

One of the things they do at this conference is make us aware of the needs in the world and how we can help!

One organization, Hope International, gives us the opportunity to invest in small businesses accross the world by giving them a small loan. Read more here:http://neverendinghope.org/?page_id=2

The leaders of the conference gave all of us $10 and challenged us to use it to raise $100 and then invest in one of these businesses!

This is where YOU come in, I am going to put in $10 to match their donation and only need 8 friends to do the same!

Will you partner with me?

Jesus tells the story in Luke 19 about a master giving talents to 3 servants to take care of while he is away. When he returns, he wants to know how each person responded. The first servant had a 100% return on the money, the next had a 50% return, but the last servant did nothing. There was great responsibility given to each person, and each made a decision of what to do with that responsibility. We all dream of what we would do in that situation. How would we respond?

NeverEndingHope.org

My hubby is 30!!!

2009-09-29T20:34:00.003-04:00

Wes turned 30 this past Friday and we had a surprise party for him to celebrate his big day!

So in honor of his milestone, here are 30 things I love about Wes!

1. He is my best friend

2. He loves people

3. He is genuine

4. He is so much fun

5. He loves me

6. He is the best Da-Da ever

7. He truly desires to follow God

8. He encourages me to follow God

9. He is a great dancer

10. He is a great snuggler

11. He is a selfless husband and father

12. He is a hard worker

13. He has wisdom beyond his years

14. He loves to sing

15. He is a family man

16. He is a gifted teacher

17. He is very thoughtful

18. He is a wonderful cook

19. He is spontaneous

20. He loves to travel

21. He is Caleb's best buddy

22. He is a man of his word

23. He has a contagious laugh

24. He is loyal

25. He has great taste in music

26. He is creative

27. He is very smart

28. He loves Jesus

29. He makes people feel comfortable

30. He is my Prince Charming :)

Hair Doodles

2009-09-23T23:18:00.008-04:00

Today we took Caleb to get his first haircut. He really did not need much done, but was definitely growing a rat-tail/mullet. Our friends told us about this cute place in town that is a kid's salon, Hair Doodles.

It was a unique experience. They put him in a booster-seat type chair, draped him with a fun "car" cover and gave him some animal crackers. I was super impressed with the stylist, because Caleb was not very still and somehow she managed to do a great job!

He did not think it was so much fun. He cried, every time she trimmed.

Overall he did really good! His haircut sure makes him look like a handsome little man! Just like his daddy!

( You really can not tell a difference in these pictures because she mainly cut the back)

Domestic Diva

2009-09-15T10:50:00.003-04:00

Ok, that is NOT me at all, but I will say I am super excited about my new vacuum that just arrived via UPS!

The Shark Navigator!
It never loses suction, so it cleans the last room as well as the first. Less than 15 lbs., easily maneuvers around furniture and toys. Power nozzle, pet hair brush and 24" crevice tool eliminate pet hair and other debris from stairs, furniture, and tight spaces. A 30 foot power cord and 12 foot stretch hose makes cleaning multiple rooms and stairs easy. Bagless design, lifetime filters and belt – mean no additional replacement costs.

Yes, I did originally see it on an infomercial. I did some research on the web and found great reviews, so I bought it at Bed, Bath and Beyond (with the 20% off coupon of course).

I am axious to try it out. I just need a little assistance with the assembly and then I will be off!

Check back for my review!

Goooooo Cocks!

2009-09-03T12:31:00.003-04:00

Bears Bears

2009-08-31T22:31:00.005-04:00

Caleb is enjoying a new CD by Andrew Peterson called Slugs & Bugs & Lullabies. Actually the CD was a gift I gave Rachel for her birthday (she asked for it at some point in the past).

The songs are glue for the brain...impossible to remove from your mind throughout the day. Like "You better eat them beans, boy" and "Tractor, Tractor, harvesting the wheat."

Caleb dances to a lot of the songs, but there is one that he sings along too (which is amazing since he has a vocabulary of about 20 words or so). The song is Bears.

He sings:

Bears, bears, they got no cares

Bears don’t drink from a cup

Sharp teeth and claws and furry paws

To catch you and eat you up

No, grizzly bears don’t wear underwear

Socks, or jammies, or gloves

No baby bears, don’t wear diapers

No Pampers, no Huggies, no Luvs

Of course we recommend the CD. But at the top of our recommendation list right now...

That's right, the Pumpkin Spice Latte. At your local Starbucks beginning tomorrow (Sept 1). I have waited months for this flavor that tickles my taste buds like no other taste on earth. So if you're wondering where I will be tomorrow morning...IN LINE AT STARBUCKS!

written by: wes (da-da)

29 and holding

2009-08-26T10:12:00.008-04:00

August 24, 1980 a precious and beautiful baby was brought into this world...ME!

Monday I celebrated my 29th birthday. The day began with Caleb bringing me a card and a gift card to Target (how thoughtful Caleb). Followed by a low-key, no plans day. These days are few and far between, so it was the perfect birthday gift.

That evening we went to Zorba's (yummy Greek food) for dinner.

It was a blast! Thanks Wes, Kristin and everyone else for making it such a special evening!

I have decided that I will stay at 29! So no more birthdays for me!

To see the rest of the pictures from the festivities, click here: http://picasaweb.google.com/rachelreddchurch/RachelS29thBirthday?authkey=Gv1sRgCKPs0fKioq-xTA&feat=directlink

I'm a big kid now

2009-08-13T09:28:00.003-04:00

Caleb is growing up so fast. He is 14 months and into EVERYTHING. He has been walking for most of the summer, but he really seems to have it down now. Which means his new venture is CLIMBING! Up the stairs, onto the couch, on top of his slide. He keeps me busy!

One of the new things he just started doing is giving "real kisses". He even makes the sound "mmmm-wah" when he does it. Melts my heart!

He is still a pretty small kid. He probably weighs around 20 lbs and most of his clothes are still size 9 months. He is getting taller and thinner and more hair. He is becoming a toddler for sure.

He has almost gotten all 4 of his molars which gives him a mouth full of 12 teeth! This is a great thing because it really expands his menu options. His current favorites are bananas, blueberries, cheese and of course french fries!

We can't wait for him to have a little brother to play with. I can only imagine how crazy our house is going to be Christmas of 2010. I will have two wild boys, a 1 year old and a 2 1/2 year old. Fun!

Speaking of baby boy #2. Things are going well. I am 21 weeks which means this baby could be here in less than 19 weeks--wow!

Caleb is keeping all of his nursey decor, so I picked out a fun new pattern for little brother.

I wish I had some updated pictures of Caleb, but my battteries in my camera are dead-- I know terrible excuse. I will post some soon.

Pink or Blue?

2009-07-27T15:52:00.003-04:00

Well...Caleb is going to have a little BROTHER!

We are not one bit surprised. He will be the 4th grandSON and the 7th great grandSON on Wes' side! I told you that Churches only make boys!

We are thrilled! I love that Caleb will have a brother close in age. I pray that they will be best friends.

Everything looks great. Heart, kidneys, spine, measurements, all 10 fingers and all 10 toes, etc! Praise the Lord!

i'll take a break

2009-07-24T20:17:00.002-04:00

i guess i will take a break from reading everyone else's blog and actually write on my own. do you ever look at your last post thinking you wrote it a few days ago yet the date reveals its been a good two weeks?? whoops!

this week has been busy. i have some serious respect for all those single moms out there (wes is in europe)...you women are amazing. for real.

"single mom" + teething, irratable toddler+ pregnancy + just getting home from a week of travel = me... pooped

what gets me through- the Lord, counting down to seeing Wes, waiting for Monday at 2pm to find out what gender baby #2 is, caleb's laugh, my wonderful, helpful sister and of course brand new jewelry!!!

Can you hold me now?

2009-07-08T21:36:00.003-04:00

So yes, I am a Kirk Franklin fan and I just discovered this old song of his. I have listened to it every day since I first heard it.

I wanted to share it because I think many people are going through tough times right now and I hope it ministers to you like it does me... If you can download it and hear the song, it is beautiful (I did add it to my blog playlist).

Kirk Franklin - Hold me now

The spring of April's gone
The leaves have all turned brown
The children are all grown up
And there's no one around
I'm looking over my life
And all the mistakes I made
And I'm afraid
Afraid
Somebody told me that you would wash all my sins
And cleanse me for the scars that are so deep within
So I'm calling to you
If you can hear me I don't know how
I was wondering can you hold me now?

You are the only one
That's patient when I fall
Your angel's come to save me
Everytime I call
You don't laugh at me
When I make mistakes and cry
You're not like man
You understand me
See people change
One day they don't like you
The next they do
I wish that everyone
Could love me just like you
So here I am
This sinful man
Peace won't allow
I was wondering can you hold me now

To every broken person
That may hear this song
To every boy or girl
That feels his smile is gone
I know exactly how it feels
To lay in the bed at night
And cry, And cry

Don't you worry
God is patient and he cares
About the tears you drop
And the pain you feel he's there
When you are weak
That's when he's strong
Even though you don't know how

God can, and he will hold you now
God can, and he will hold you now
Don't you worry, he can hold you now

Vacation Week 2

2009-07-05T22:02:00.010-04:00

Our second week of vacation was spent at Cherry Grove (N. Myrtle Beach). This was with Wes' family. 35+ people in an 8 bedroom house! It was craziness, but belive it or not, still relaxing. Caleb loves the beach! He loves to dig in the sand, eat the sand and splash in the ocean!
While we were gone, we also celebrated our 4 year wedding anniversary. We went to a really neat restaurant in Little River, SC called The Parson's Table. It was a very special and fun outing just the two of us!

Vacation Week 1

2009-06-22T21:23:00.010-04:00

have you missed us? we have been gone for 2 whole weeks! the first week we went to orlando with my family. we stayed at a nice family resort where we spent most of our days playing in the pool.

we did decide to take caleb to the magic kingdom for a half day. that's about all i could handle in the florida sun. he did great. he loved the playground in front of mickey's house where he could crawl around and his favorite was "its a small world". we had to get him some mouse ears and a stuffed mickey for memories sake.

we also went to sea world. it was a fun family outing-- the redds, cothrans and churchs! we saw shamu and a few other very entertaining shows.

next blog: vacation week 2

The big ONE!

2009-06-03T23:35:00.006-04:00

One year ago today (June 3rd) I met my baby boy for the first time.

I can not believe he is ONE! Don't blink!

My Favorite things...

2009-05-30T12:25:00.003-04:00

Carrie tagged me to do this back in umm... October- ha. I really just couldn't think of anything. Today however I will share.

Currently I am lovin:

The Ham & Cheese grinder from Bellacino's. Oven baked and fabulous!

Ayiesha Woods' new song "Love Like This"

Naked juice, the Mighty Mango flavor. One bottle contains 1 1/4 Mango, 1 Orange, 1 3/4 Apples, 1/3 Banana and a hint of lemon. Delicious and good for me!

Mint.com a great way to manage your money- for free!!

My brown Kino Sandals. Yes, they are my summer shoe staple.

The Cinnamon Crunch bagel from Panera Bread. Cinnamon and vanilla chips flavor the dough, topped with a sweet, crunchy shell of cinnamon and sugar! Make sure you ask to have it "bread sliced". YUMMY!!

I love all these things but none of these can top the sweet smell of Caleb after a bath and watching him sleep so peacefully after a hard day of play!

3+1=4

2009-05-26T11:15:00.007-04:00

Many of you already know this, the Church family is growing! Caleb will be a big brother on December 20th and we are just thrilled.

I had my first doctor's appointment last week and everything looks great!

We got to see the picture of our litte peanut and are once again amazed by this miracle of life!

So to answer some of the questions I get most often...

We were not "trying" but we were not "preventing". I have always wanted to have a big family and for my children to be close in age. And yes-- these two will be very close! 18 months apart- eek!

I guess I am in the whole "just get through diapers, sleepless nights, etc and be done with it" mindset.

Utlimately though, we want our family to be whatever the Lord wants, so we will just take it one day at a time...

Question for you all, "Do you think it will be a girl or a boy?"

I am planning for another boy because that is all that the Church family seems to make- ha! I guess we will find out sometime in August!

Well that's my big news for the week. So if you see me and think-- she has a little "pooch"...now you know it wasn't just the chick-fil-a!

sick baby= no fun

2009-05-13T15:44:00.003-04:00

Well, it has been an interesting week...let me take you back to April 25. We had just returned home from our trip to DC. Caleb stayed with Mimi & Pop (Wes's parents). On our way home they told us he had a fever. So when we got home, we gave him some motrin and his fever seemed normal.

Monday morning he wakes up and is burning up! Take his temp...104!! The highest it has ever been. Off to the doctor we go. Find out he has his very first ear infection. Poor baby. I felt like a bad mom b/c he was not showing ANY signs. He ate well, played well, never pulled on his ears...

So we get an antibiotic and take 2 doses a day for 10 days. Wednesday, May 6 we are done with the antibiotic, all seems well. Thursday our babysitter calls and says he feels warm. I'm thinking maybe he is teething. Give him motrin and he seems fine. Saturday he wakes up and once again has a 104 fever! So we take him to the weekend doctor's office and find out he now has a double ear infection!!! Poor baby!! Doctor puts him on another stronger antibiotic.

Sunday he wakes up and happy mother's day, your baby still has a 104 fever. Assuming the antibitiocs have not completely kicked in, he gets motrin around the clock and seems to be in a good mood.

Monday, May 11 he wakes up BURNING UP!! Take his temp, this time 105...AHHHHHH!!!! Call the nurse, says bring him in. Still has the double ear infection AND puss on the back of his throat indicating a virus. So he is already feeling bad and has to have someone dig in his ears, swab his throat AND prick his toe to draw blood. Step test comes back negative-- thank you Lord-- blood work looks normal-- thank you Lord...But he has some sort of virus so we are going to give him a shot of an antibiotic. GREAT. I don't do well with the shot thing. Usually Wes is with me and he helps hold him. It is only me however and the fun part is, it is past nap time and Caleb is also hungry so we are waiting for the shot in a bad mood. Gets the shot (never fun) and then we have to wait in the waiting room for 15 minutes to make sure that it has no side affects.

I get the baby boy a bottle, we wait. Nurse gives us the ok. Into the car we go and he is out, zzzzzz...

The shot helped a ton. He has had a low to no fever since. Today we went back for a follow up. I took Wes this time for moral support. Good thing I did b/c they decided he needed another round of the antibiotic via shot. And guess what? We get to go back on Friday and do it all again.

Whew...so I am a little worn out. Plus throw in a little morning sickness and tiredness on the side.

Prayer request: Please pray the medicine knocks out the ear infection and virus. If it does not, we may have to discuss getting tubes put in Caleb's ears. And that does not sound fun one bit!

All in all, Caleb has still been in a great mood. He is a trooper. Playing, laughing and getting into everything. I am just thinking pretty soon he is going to recognize that doctor's office and not be real excited about being there- ha!

THE dress!

2009-05-08T23:11:00.004-04:00

Well I finally made it to LaRoque to pick out my dress (Valentine's gift from Wes).

There were so many beautiful fabrics, colors and styles...it was a little overwhelming, so I just decided to stick with classic black and red!

I do love it! Thank you for the gift babe and thank you for making it Annabelle (she is so talented)!

Here is a picture of it when I went for my fitting. Please do not pay attention to my awful hair, lack of make up and pasty whiteness! Ha!

11 months!

2009-05-07T15:39:00.003-04:00

My baby boy is becoming a little man! Everyday he looks more grown up! He talks all the time (not sure what he is saying), but he does say "bye-bye", "ba-ba (bottle)" and "ball"! His favorite thing to do is open and close things...doors, cabinets, cell phones, soap dispenser on the dishwasher, box of wipes, mailbox, etc...

This weekend we went to the beach and he got in the pool for the first time. He LOVED it! He loves the bath, so I figured he would like the pool. I am thinking a baby pool for the backyard is on our list for fun summer activities!

He is standing by himself a lot lately, so maybe he will start walking by the time he hits ONE!
Which, by the way, is in less than 4 weeks! Where did the time go?

He is happer then he looks- ha!

splish splash

2009-04-27T11:38:00.003-04:00

i love the bath

like my rock star hair (styled by my daddy)?

No more carrots

2009-04-15T14:26:00.004-04:00

"No Mom...I do not want to eat any more carrots!" ( I guess we should have never introduced him to the french fry )

Egg-cited

2009-04-05T22:32:00.009-04:00

Caleb had has first egg hunt this Saturday. He really didn't look for any eggs. He carried his basket and some nice man brought him an egg. And while all the other kids were filling their baskets, Caleb only needed one egg to satisfy! Such a content child (ha).

It was a beautiful day! The easter egg hunt was held at a really nice park where Caleb & his cousin Ryder & his Mimi had a blast!

beautiful baby boy

2009-04-01T11:43:00.005-04:00

Our sweet friend and favorite photographer, Brooke Turner, came over last week to take Caleb's 9 month pictures (even though he will be 10 months on Friday).

We have not seen the pictures yet, but she did post a sneak peek on her blog...

http://www.brooketurnerphotography.com/blog/the-church-family

Brooke- they are soooo wonderful, I can't wait to see the rest!

We sure do have a beautiful baby boy (if I do say so myself).

See more of Brooke's work on her blog and her website: http://www.brooketurnerphotography.com/

A day in the life...

2009-03-30T00:00:00.002-04:00

Today we did not go to church. Caleb had a fever, snotty nose and a little cough. We began the day with a bath (always makes me feel better). Caleb loves the bath! After playing in the tub, I got him out and wrapped him in a towel. Suddenly I felt a warm sensation in my lap...yep, pee-pee all over me and all over my clean little boy. Next is the wrestling match in the bedroom, otherwise known as diaper changing and dressing. What 9 month old little boy wants to sit still...ever? Not this one! I am getting good at putting on a diaper while he is flipping, crawling or standing. Now-- downstairs to play. He is good at playing. He loves his ball popper and pretty much anything in the house that is not a toy. So I spend most of my day "Caleb proofing". Do not pull on the drapes, do not eat that paper, what is in your mouth...a nickel? get out of the trash, be careful you are gonna fall and so on. Somewhere in the day he gets a nap, 2 if we're lucky. When it comes to meals, he always wants to eat what I am eating and is so [almost] over baby food. We watch a little Baby Einstein. Caleb LOVES it! Right now "Baby MacDonald" is in the DVD player and we are learning all about animals on the farm. Daddy gets home (YAY) mommy can have a little break. It's pretty outside, so we take a family stroll. Daddy has to go back to church. Caleb and I go visit our neighbors. We play over there and then it is time for dinner and bed! Make a bottle, wrestle to change the diaper, feed and rock my little man to sleep. Many days I do not know where my day went. Finding time to do house chores or even work my jewelry business is a daily challenge. So I won't lie, it is hard work being a mom...but then when he smiles at me and lights up when I walk into the room, it makes it all worth it.

Firsts

2009-03-10T09:53:00.011-04:00

Caleb's first...

Nilla Wafer (from his GiGi)

dinosaurs (also from his GiGi)

Toy car (thanks to his uncle Tyler)

Yep- he is "All Boy"!

Happy Valentine's Day to me...

2009-02-19T15:46:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you to my sweet husband, Wes for my fabulous, very creative Valentine's day gift!

A gift certificate to LaRoque Studio Boutique (2700 Devine St). Here you will find handmade, original pieces. Custom garments, as well as private consultations and fittings are available.

How fun is that? So I get go pick out an outfit, the fabric and design and have it made to fit me perfectly! YAY Fun! So what should I get? A blouse? Some nice pants or maybe an Easter Dress?

If you are on facebook, you can see many more of her designs...here are a few:

the big move

2009-02-16T00:22:00.003-05:00

tonight we lowered the mattress in caleb's crib! to some this may sound uneventful, but to me it was a little sad! this means he is becoming a " big boy" and we will not be able to see him peeking over the side (until he starts pulling up ...which will be soon).

he just started learning to wave. he does it facing himself and is just fascinated by it (too cute). he is also doing the army crawl, trying hard to get up on his knees to really crawl...time to baby proof the house!!

MY GYM

2009-02-12T16:50:00.005-05:00

One of Caleb's weekly highlights (and mine) is going to MY GYM. It is a fun "fitness" gym for little ones. We get to swing and jump and play with all the cool stuff. Here are some pics of him having a blast!

You can also check out this place online: MY GYM

past due

2009-01-21T22:34:00.004-05:00

so i have to confess that i am a blog addict and LOVE to read all of yours...i am always checking to see if there is a new update, new pictures, funny stories, etc...

so as i wait for some of you to update (Katie D, Megan S), i realize i am past due!

so what is new in the Church household?

today i was given amish friendship bread...not the warm, yummy kind you slice and eat, but the gooey yeast (starter) that you have to mix and feed and bake! for those of you who know me, i am not a cook. but it is a new year, time to try new things. the deal with this bread is, it grows and makes 4 more starters...one for me to keep and 3 to pass on (every 10 days)...i already know who my first 3 will be!

caleb is getting so big! he got a new tooth today and has 3 more ready to come in. he will have 6 teeth before he is 8 months old, crazy! he can now sit up all by himself. he says "da-da" and i have heard "ma-ma" a few rare times. when he wakes up in the morning or from naps, i walk in the room to find the top of his head and little eyes trying to peer over the crib, just looking for someone to come play with him. it melts my heart! (i will have to get a picture of this soon).

he is full of facial expressions! wonder who he gets that from??

wes is gearing up for an exciting spring with the college students...a super bowl party, a series on "love", a trip to NYC for spring break missions, small group bible studies and more. he is also busy being the best daddy ever! usually when i go to a jewelry show, it is daddy/caleb time and they just have a blast. i am so thankful for him!

so that's a little update for now-- i will try to get better at posting!

All I want for Christmas

2008-12-29T22:30:00.005-05:00

is my two bottom teeth! Yes, ladies & gentleman, Caleb has two teeth!

They made their way here sometime between when we left for Christmas vacation and returned home.

Wes and I both told Caleb he is not allowed to get any bigger! It is amazing to watch him grow. Something new happens literally every single day.

We had a wonderful Christmas. Caleb got a lot of fun toys and clothes. His favorite toy (from his mom & dad of course) is his ExerSaucer! He could play in it for hours! It has toys that spin, pull, beep, shake, talk, sing, etc...

Here is a picture of him playing in it today. We hope you all had a very merry CHRISTmas!

stocking stuffer

2008-12-08T12:36:00.008-05:00

there is a sweet lady at our church who makes these stockings for all newborn babies. tradition is to put the baby in it and send her a picture.

so here is my favorite stocking stuffer!i have been back to taking more pictures again. here are some updated ones of our little family.

it's the most wonderful time of the year!

2008-12-01T23:04:00.004-05:00

is Christmas really almost here? i decided that time REALLY does fly by, i can remember this time last year so vividly.

our tree is up and the stockings are hung and we are just enjoying our favorite gift, our son Caleb!

he is already 6 months old! every day we get a new glimpse into his little world. he is just full of personality!

he is now rolling over and trying to scoot across the floor. he loves toys and anything he can chew on! he does not like to sit still and loves to take in every thing he sees with eyes wide open!

i love being his mommy and i am so thankful the Lord gave us this gift!

we are fam-i-ly

2008-10-26T23:40:00.004-04:00

life has been a bit of a whirlwind. i am still learning how to do life with a baby. it is a tough job, but i am having a blast. caleb is so sweet and so fun! can you believe he is almost 5 months old? where did those months go? tonight we went to the fall festival at church, he was a giraffe. and a really cute giraffe i must say!

we also went to a friend's wedding last weekend in edisto, it was at a beautiful plantation...

Cousins

2008-10-16T00:48:00.006-04:00

Yesterday cousin Ryder came to visit Caleb with Mimi & Pop! We had a great time at the park!

supper club

2008-10-07T16:08:00.004-04:00

it seems the older i get the harder it is to really stay connected with friends. we all live different places, go to different churches, travel on weekends, etc etc

i mean some of my most favorite people in the world live right here in my town and i may go 6 months without seeing them!

so last year a few of us decided we need to do something about this once every 6 months thing, so we started a supper club. i know it sounds so "old", but it really is the best idea. we rotate houses every month and just enjoy an evening of conversation, yummy food and wonderful fellowship.

this past month we went out to eat for Wes' birthday and since one of our topics we discuss are blogs...i thought i would give them a shout out

soongs & trevetts...y'all are some good people

4:45 am

2008-10-05T21:53:00.003-04:00

to many 4:45 am sounds super early! to me it means my baby boy slept 8+ hours! yay!!

he has done this 3 nights in a row! hallelujah!

caleb is now 4 months old! he is sooooo much fun! he smiles and coos and basically is just a delightful son!

i am sorry i have been a slack blogger...

here are some pics of my snuggle-bug...

His Gem

2008-09-20T13:54:00.003-04:00

Caleb was given this cute outfit with scripture on it..."I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14". I checked out the website, His GEM (Spiritually Inspired Children's Clothing) and really love their stuff! Great gift ideas!

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the LORD swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth. Deut 11:18-21

3 things

2008-09-17T18:03:00.004-04:00

3 things i want to share today

1. my hubby is preaching at first baptist this sunday (in case you do not know, our church has room to seat 2500+ and is televised)
for the past 6 years our church has something called Greek Day. we invite the USC Sororities & Fraternities to church, recognize them for their community service and serve them lunch. we have had up to 700 students before, but so far this year we have 1000 RSVP! wow! so some big prayer requests here, for Wes and for all those who attend! pray that hearts will be soft and ears will be open.

2. my dear friend brooke gave me one of the coolest birthday gifts ever! she hand-painted the letters "C-A-L-E-B" to hang up in the nursery. she painted them to match our jungle decor! it looks amazing and will be a perfect finishing touch to the nursery.

3. my son loves football. ok well he has a football made by taggies and he LOVES it-- thank you to Wade's parents- it is a hit! we did a photo shoot with it today...baby gap, eat your heart out!

the Pumpkin Spice Latte

2008-09-08T22:53:00.002-04:00

She said, "But I really want you to. Other husbands write on their wives' blogs." So here it is...as she lies sawing the proverbial logs next to me...a post by this loving husband about the coffee drink that brings joy to the heart.

We spent this past week on the Isle of Palms...which happens to be my favorite isle (an easy decision for me since I can only think of one other isle: the Emerald Isle...and I've never been there). On Friday as we waited for the arrival of Hannah, the unwanted guest on South Carolina's Coast, we ventured over the IOP connector to Mount Pleasant for a little shopping and stop at the bank. Because it was rainy and for other reasons I will not name (but primarily just because), I ran into the Starbucks Cafe at Barnes & Noble and what to my wondering eye should appear but...PUMPKIN SPICE LATTES on the SEASONAL MENU.

If I could actually put into words what level of joy this little concoction of steamed milk, espresso and pumpkin spice syrup brings to my life then I would be a poet of laureate quality (if that even makes sense). I nearly cried when I asked "Do you really have Pumpkin Spice Lattes" and the fine barista responded, "Yes." I said, "I'll have a VENTI, please."

Then as the first sip of PSL (as I affectionately refer to my drink of choice) rolled across my taste buds, I could not contain myself. I had to sing to express my deep joy (Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. James 5:13).

This is the beginning of it...my season of choice: Rachel's Birthday, College Football, PSLs, the Greek Festival, my birthday, the beginning of Christmas Music, State Fair, Pumpkin Pies and Pumpkin Carving, Thanksgiving and Christmas. It never comes quick enough, nor does it stay around long enough.

So, now...my joy will be made complete if you too, faithful reader of these Chronicles, will indulge in a Pumpkin Spice Latte from your nearest Starbucks. It is the flavor of Autumn, liquid joy, delicious on top of delicious, the finest among the fine, an ever-present help in days of drudgery...the pumpkin spice latte. Run quickly, children...it will not disappoint!

In my next piece of bloggery, because I am a minister, I will write on the theology of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Stay tuned...and I love you wife-t.

3 months old!

2008-09-08T16:25:00.003-04:00

well i have learned the main reason people read my blog is to see pictures of caleb...so here is a slide show of him lately. they really do "grow up so fast"!

I declare Your marvelous deeds

2008-09-04T10:11:00.001-04:00

14 But as for me, I will always have hope;
I will praise you more and more.

15 My mouth will tell of your righteousness,
of your salvation all day long,
though I know not its measure.

16 I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign LORD;
I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone.

17 Since my youth, O God, you have taught me,
and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

Psalm 71:14-17

This just sets it all back in the right perspective.

A woman VP?!

2008-08-29T12:05:00.005-04:00

So I am not real big into politics (thankfully my hubby keeps me well informed)...but I have to say I am pretty excited about the republican nominee for VP, Sarah Palin!

I was emailed this article on a lady's blog who let's us get to know Sarah. She compares Gov Palin to Queen Ester. I got a little emotional when I read the line, "She is literally being drug to the palace to be placed on a throne - and it is for such a time as this." Please take time to read!

travels with the babe

2008-08-28T16:59:00.004-04:00

well we have had a busy week! caleb and i hit the road to do some jewelry shows in spartanburg and then aiken! he is such a fun travel companion. he is usually fast asleep on the road or talking (cooing) to me about all he sees (the back of the car, some of the window and some dangling toys).

these are fun trips b/c he gets good quality time with the grandparents!

we are now back at home and getting ready to get our garnet and black on--

gooooooo COCKS!!!!!

Food blogs?!?

2008-08-28T16:40:00.003-04:00

Ok if you are not already addicted to family and friends blogs, there is more...I have discovered food blogs!! Check out: www.aloveatfirstbite.blogspot.com

This girl loves to cook and she posts her recipes and pictures online! She writes "I am a new Mommy who is finding more time in the kitchen lately and rekindling my love for all things cooking and baking".

Then there is a link to this Tuesdays With Dorie blog and all of these cooks link their cooking/baking blogs to this...it is food madness :)

www.tuesdayswithdorie.wordpress.com

Funny thing is-- I don't really cook, but thought I would share :)

One Day

2008-08-23T15:49:00.004-04:00

I just discovered this song and it has been my personal anthem lately. When I face sadness or tough times I am reminded that there is a better day coming! This is all temporary!

Glory by Selah

One day eyes that are blind will see you clearly
And one day all who deny will finally believe
One day hearts made of stone will break in pieces
And one day chains once unbroken will fall down at your feet
So we wait for that one day come quickly

Chorus
We want to see your Glory
Every knee falls down before thee
Every tongue offers you praise
With every hand raised
Singing Glory
To you and unto you only
We'll sing Glory to Your name

One day voices that lie will all be silent
One day all that's divided will be whole again
One day death will retreat and wave it's white flag
One day love will defeat the strongest enemy
So we wait for that one day come quickly

Chorus

We know not the day or the hour
Or the moments in between
But we know the end of the story
When we'll see

Chorus

What a beautiful song with a timeless truth! I am looking forward to that one day!! Com quickly Lord Jesus!

bodily fluids...ewww!

2008-08-22T20:50:00.009-04:00

so we have been a household of the common cold-- yuck

it all started with me 5 days ago...itchy throat, runny nose, etc. well when mommy gets sick, that pretty much gives little baby no chance. he woke up yesterday with this pitiful little cough and runny nose. poor baby.

the doc said there's not too much you can do when they are this young, but to get a cool-mist humidifier, saline drops and use that not-so-fun nose-sucker-outter-thingy.

now that i am feeling much better, wes started feeling the love... so today i got to take care of both my boys.

i also feel completely initiated into motherhood with the all the bodily fluids that come from babies...
lets just say the clothes i put in the washer today had spit-up, poopie, pee pee, snot, milk and who knows what else on it. fun, huh?! crazy thing is, i am started to not even get grossed out about it.

thankfully though he is pitiful, he still smiles through the yuckiness.

AN INTERVIEW WITH RICK WARREN (AUTHOR OF "A PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE")

2008-08-21T12:19:00.001-04:00

Interview with Rick Warren , author and pastor of Saddleback Church in California .

In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said:

People ask me, What is the purpose of life? And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.

One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body-- but not the end of me.

I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal.

God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity. We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense.

Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.

The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort.

God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy.

We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.

This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife getting cancer.

I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore.

Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life.

No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.

And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.

You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems.

If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness, "which is my problem, my issues, my pain."

But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.

We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal my wife or make it easy for her.

It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to Him and to people.

You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life. Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.

It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.

So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72.

First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit. We made no major purchases.

Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church.

Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.

Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 years since I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.

We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity? Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?

When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You better ...

God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do. That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.

Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.

Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.

Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.

Painful moments, TRUST GOD.

Every moment, THANK GOD

ramblings

2008-08-10T22:16:00.006-04:00

well we had our 2 month check up friday with shots and all! i mean that can break a mamas heart!

Caleb is now 11 lbs 9 oz! Big boy! And he sure feels that big. We went to visit Andrew, Flo and Drew last week and he is so teeny! i can not get over just how fast they grow.

we had an event filled weekend...short trip to TN to see Wes family and then a visit today by our friends Carrie and Brad. Caleb loved Brad and was so happy and peaceful when he held him...maybe that is a good sign Brad...

i love August because it is my birthday month! yes i celebrate all month! wes bought me a really cool stand up mirror to go in our bedroom (as an early bday gift) it matches perfect, now if only we could clean the room

to answer your question "are you getting any sleep yet" umm...not really. we have had maybe 2 or 3 nights where Caleb has slept 6 hours, but typically 4 straight hours is all we get ( i will take it)

he is getting more and more interactive and smiley! i love it! he sure has stolen my heart!

well, its back to work for me this week. jewelry shows in spartanburg and aiken (grandparents are excited to babysit) i am looking forward to getting some sort of routine going

here are some pics...