Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
Another cute kid hits Youtube....
I don't even like Star Wars (sorry to those of you who are fans....) yet I still find this gal to be adorable....
My favorite line, "He'll getcha!"
My favorite line, "He'll getcha!"
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Another fantastic weekend!
We've been absolutely spoiled over the past month! We have had visitors 4 of the past 6 weekends, and this weekend was no exception. What fun! My mom and dad made the trip and arrived late Thursday night and stayed through this afternoon. Our boys adore them and absolutely loved every minute. There were so many fun pictures.... I couldn't decide, so I just posted ALL of them! :) My parents had never been to Niagara Falls before. We had originally thought that we would wait for warmer weather, but when the sun popped out for awhile on Saturday, I felt spontaneous and declared, "We're going." It was a brief trip but fun! Scott and I have decided that it will be fun to have pictures at the Falls in every season!
On our way to the Falls...
Aaron's new "Ipod" (as he calls it) makes me think he is a little preteen! Yikes! Both of these pics make me smile!
Yea, Mom and Dad have finally made it to the Falls! My grandma will be happy. When we first told her that we were moving, she said, "Well.... your mom and dad will finally see Niagara Falls!"
I love this picture of us, the "mist", and the sunshine peaking through the clouds.
It wasn't the best day to get pictures of the actual Falls, but the area at the State Park around the Falls was breathtaking this visit. The snow and ice on the trees.... stunning!
The Falls are "peaking" through in this picture!
Yep, Ollie is very patient!
Aaron's new "Ipod" (as he calls it) makes me think he is a little preteen! Yikes! Both of these pics make me smile!
Yea, Mom and Dad have finally made it to the Falls! My grandma will be happy. When we first told her that we were moving, she said, "Well.... your mom and dad will finally see Niagara Falls!"
I love this picture of us, the "mist", and the sunshine peaking through the clouds.
It wasn't the best day to get pictures of the actual Falls, but the area at the State Park around the Falls was breathtaking this visit. The snow and ice on the trees.... stunning!The Falls are "peaking" through in this picture!
Yep, Ollie is very patient!
Isaac and his "ma-maw"
Aaron and Grandpa... after a pony ride!
A whole lot of wrestling happened this weekend!
Goodbyes have certainly been hard. I finally had to pull out some fudgsicles to get my boys calmed down today. You can see the teary look in Aaron's eyes in this picture.... we sure do love you, Grandma and Grandpa/Mom and Dad!!! Thanks for coming!!!
Aaron and Grandpa... after a pony ride!
A whole lot of wrestling happened this weekend!
Goodbyes have certainly been hard. I finally had to pull out some fudgsicles to get my boys calmed down today. You can see the teary look in Aaron's eyes in this picture.... we sure do love you, Grandma and Grandpa/Mom and Dad!!! Thanks for coming!!!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Our little cutie!
(What's going on with blogger?!! I've heard other people mention that they've had problems, too. Anyway, here are a few of the pics that I was finally able to upload. Hope that you enjoy them!)
Isaac is bringing us SO MUCH JOY right now! He's rapidly approaching TWO so that brings with it other challenges, but so, so many fun things, too. He is starting to say more and more things which is AWESOME!!! (I'll try to post a video sometime!) If you thought he was cute before, golly, you should hear him when he talks!!! SO FUN!
Isaac is bringing us SO MUCH JOY right now! He's rapidly approaching TWO so that brings with it other challenges, but so, so many fun things, too. He is starting to say more and more things which is AWESOME!!! (I'll try to post a video sometime!) If you thought he was cute before, golly, you should hear him when he talks!!! SO FUN!
Thankful Thursday....
Today, I am thankful....
1) For big glimpses of hope in the new friendship department.
Story #1: Last week at Bible study, I met a really neat gal who is in the same life stage as me. She was very friendly.... very encouraging.... and even said, "Hey, why don't you just join us at our table?" Hello.... much, much easier to walk into a room full of the unknown with a friendly, inviting person.
Story #2: Scott's boss' wife invited the boys and I over for lunch and a playdate yesterday. It was a great time.... great coversation.... and even better, her older kids chased mine around so I could actually visit with her! Hoorah! AND.... we already have another date on the calendar!
Story #3: I was invited to a "jewelry party" on Monday. I don't wear jewelry other than my wedding ring, but I still went and ended up having a really fun and encouraging conversation with one of Scott's co-workers. She is very down-to-earth and very easy to talk to.
Story #4: That same co-worker connected me with another SAHM who moved from Massachusettes two years ago and has a real heart for families who have just moved. We are planning to get together for a playdate once her family and mine are all healthy at the same time (at this rate.... it could be July! HA!)
2) For my mom and dad's willingness to come to visit! They will arrive tonight, and we CAN'T wait!!!
3) For the fact that they also just got high speed and will be wired for video calling before too long! YEA!
4) For the way Isaac just grabs everyone and anyone's shoes and just walks around the house in them. Right now, he found his snow boots and is cruising around in them. Too cute!
5) For the encouragement that many of you have sent to me through the comments or via email. I cannot begin to express how much those words of life have blessed me.... bless YOU for blessing me!!! :) God continues to be faithful.... minute by minute, day by day!
1) For big glimpses of hope in the new friendship department.
Story #1: Last week at Bible study, I met a really neat gal who is in the same life stage as me. She was very friendly.... very encouraging.... and even said, "Hey, why don't you just join us at our table?" Hello.... much, much easier to walk into a room full of the unknown with a friendly, inviting person.
Story #2: Scott's boss' wife invited the boys and I over for lunch and a playdate yesterday. It was a great time.... great coversation.... and even better, her older kids chased mine around so I could actually visit with her! Hoorah! AND.... we already have another date on the calendar!
Story #3: I was invited to a "jewelry party" on Monday. I don't wear jewelry other than my wedding ring, but I still went and ended up having a really fun and encouraging conversation with one of Scott's co-workers. She is very down-to-earth and very easy to talk to.
Story #4: That same co-worker connected me with another SAHM who moved from Massachusettes two years ago and has a real heart for families who have just moved. We are planning to get together for a playdate once her family and mine are all healthy at the same time (at this rate.... it could be July! HA!)
2) For my mom and dad's willingness to come to visit! They will arrive tonight, and we CAN'T wait!!!
3) For the fact that they also just got high speed and will be wired for video calling before too long! YEA!
4) For the way Isaac just grabs everyone and anyone's shoes and just walks around the house in them. Right now, he found his snow boots and is cruising around in them. Too cute!
5) For the encouragement that many of you have sent to me through the comments or via email. I cannot begin to express how much those words of life have blessed me.... bless YOU for blessing me!!! :) God continues to be faithful.... minute by minute, day by day!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Things that I'm Learning Part 2
- That in New York, you have to put a license plate on the front and the back of your vehicle.
- To do so, we'll have to put new brackets on our vehicles.... and they aren't cheap.
- I knew that I can get money for turning in cans and bottles in NY; however, I did not realize that they actually charge the consumer extra on the front end (it showed up as a 60 cent line item at Walmart after I purchased a 12-pack! Yikes!)
- That sunshine REALLY helps my days to go better in the winter.
- The person who told me that Buffalo's winters are actually pretty sunny LIED.
- Nyquil tastes AWFUL!
- It's hard to get your Indiana title transferred when you already live in NY (oops.... should have thought of that BEFORE the move....)
- I'm really thankful for blogs. It helps me to feel a little connected to the world outside of my home when I really don't know anyone....
- 5-year olds should always still take naps!!! :)
- LOTS of people are born and raised in and never leave Buffalo. That's not a bad thing.... that's just the reality of what I'm learning. It makes it interesting to attempt to find people who understand, TRULY understand this journey.
- I'm also learning things NOT to say to people who have just moved. As I've shared a little bit of our story with different people.... about the fact that we just moved from Indiana and most of our family (including grandmas and grandpas to our babies) are still in Indiana, people LOVE to respond with, "Oh wow, I could NEVER do that...." They are saying it empathetically; however, it hurts, and I ALWAYS want to respond with, "Never say never...." Yep, that's certainly a lesson I've learned. I NEVER thought I would move this far away from my family.... I NEVER thought I would live outside of Indiana.... and here I am. Yep, never say never....
- Another thing to not say to the new person in town, "We should get together.... we'll have you over...." and then, never call. When the new person is longing for friendships and is designed for depth in relationships, that is really hard. It's also hard being the new person.... wanting to be intentional, but HOW intentional when everybody else's lives seem to already be established?!
- It's always good to keep the 6-month perspective in mind.... I know that 6-months from now, things WILL look different for us.
- Whew.... okay, on a lighter note.... I'm learning that there are A LOT of run-down, old motels in Niagara Falls!
- Forwarded mail service is awesome!
- Schools in this area take a winter break for a week every February. Next year.... I'm declaring that we're GOING someplace warm!
- It's nice to have evenings at home as a family.
- Anderson's roast beef sandwich with provolone is extremely yummy.
- Boxes multiply while I sleep.
- An unfinished basement is a little boys' heaven on earth!
- Dunkin' Donuts and Tim Horton's are both really popular around here.... and are on every corner.
- Every woman who moves needs the book, After the Boxes are Unpacked.
- It's hard to miss family gatherings back in Indiana.
- I don't know how to answer the question, "Mommy, are you having a grumpy day?"
- It will be good to see Buffalo WITH green grass and flowers!
- I'm not the first person who has ever moved, and I won't be the last.....
To my dear blog reader: thanks for letting me process this journey a bit with you! Thanks for sticking with me.... I love you!
- To do so, we'll have to put new brackets on our vehicles.... and they aren't cheap.
- I knew that I can get money for turning in cans and bottles in NY; however, I did not realize that they actually charge the consumer extra on the front end (it showed up as a 60 cent line item at Walmart after I purchased a 12-pack! Yikes!)
- That sunshine REALLY helps my days to go better in the winter.
- The person who told me that Buffalo's winters are actually pretty sunny LIED.
- Nyquil tastes AWFUL!
- It's hard to get your Indiana title transferred when you already live in NY (oops.... should have thought of that BEFORE the move....)
- I'm really thankful for blogs. It helps me to feel a little connected to the world outside of my home when I really don't know anyone....
- 5-year olds should always still take naps!!! :)
- LOTS of people are born and raised in and never leave Buffalo. That's not a bad thing.... that's just the reality of what I'm learning. It makes it interesting to attempt to find people who understand, TRULY understand this journey.
- I'm also learning things NOT to say to people who have just moved. As I've shared a little bit of our story with different people.... about the fact that we just moved from Indiana and most of our family (including grandmas and grandpas to our babies) are still in Indiana, people LOVE to respond with, "Oh wow, I could NEVER do that...." They are saying it empathetically; however, it hurts, and I ALWAYS want to respond with, "Never say never...." Yep, that's certainly a lesson I've learned. I NEVER thought I would move this far away from my family.... I NEVER thought I would live outside of Indiana.... and here I am. Yep, never say never....
- Another thing to not say to the new person in town, "We should get together.... we'll have you over...." and then, never call. When the new person is longing for friendships and is designed for depth in relationships, that is really hard. It's also hard being the new person.... wanting to be intentional, but HOW intentional when everybody else's lives seem to already be established?!
- It's always good to keep the 6-month perspective in mind.... I know that 6-months from now, things WILL look different for us.
- Whew.... okay, on a lighter note.... I'm learning that there are A LOT of run-down, old motels in Niagara Falls!
- Forwarded mail service is awesome!
- Schools in this area take a winter break for a week every February. Next year.... I'm declaring that we're GOING someplace warm!
- It's nice to have evenings at home as a family.
- Anderson's roast beef sandwich with provolone is extremely yummy.
- Boxes multiply while I sleep.
- An unfinished basement is a little boys' heaven on earth!
- Dunkin' Donuts and Tim Horton's are both really popular around here.... and are on every corner.
- Every woman who moves needs the book, After the Boxes are Unpacked.
- It's hard to miss family gatherings back in Indiana.
- I don't know how to answer the question, "Mommy, are you having a grumpy day?"
- It will be good to see Buffalo WITH green grass and flowers!
- I'm not the first person who has ever moved, and I won't be the last.....
To my dear blog reader: thanks for letting me process this journey a bit with you! Thanks for sticking with me.... I love you!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Just one more post for today....
Okay, so I'm a blogging woman today! Just one more....
First, thanks to all of you who gave me valuable input regarding brakes on vehicles. I always get nervous when taking a vehicle to the mechanic; I never do well with "unexpected expenses." Yikes! However, that apprehension has been taken to a whole new level in a new city. I do know that we needed to get the brakes done.... confirmed by the grinding sound and the listening ears of my hubby. However, I am planning to call our reliable AND trustworthy auto shop from Indiana to ask them what is "normal" on this type of vehicle. I mean..... seriously!
So again, thanks for the comments. I am open to plenty of input on this next question, too....
Scott and I are both sick with a head cold/cough. So.... my question for today: what are your favorite cough and cold remedies?!! We tried the little wives' tale about massaging Vicks into your feet and wearing socks to bed. I think it MIGHT have helped Scott.... however, I cannot stand to wear socks to bed anyway, and with Vicks goo on top of it, my socks didn't stay on very long! No help there.... HA! So, again, what have you found that helps?!!
First, thanks to all of you who gave me valuable input regarding brakes on vehicles. I always get nervous when taking a vehicle to the mechanic; I never do well with "unexpected expenses." Yikes! However, that apprehension has been taken to a whole new level in a new city. I do know that we needed to get the brakes done.... confirmed by the grinding sound and the listening ears of my hubby. However, I am planning to call our reliable AND trustworthy auto shop from Indiana to ask them what is "normal" on this type of vehicle. I mean..... seriously!
So again, thanks for the comments. I am open to plenty of input on this next question, too....
Scott and I are both sick with a head cold/cough. So.... my question for today: what are your favorite cough and cold remedies?!! We tried the little wives' tale about massaging Vicks into your feet and wearing socks to bed. I think it MIGHT have helped Scott.... however, I cannot stand to wear socks to bed anyway, and with Vicks goo on top of it, my socks didn't stay on very long! No help there.... HA! So, again, what have you found that helps?!!
Tag!
I got tagged by Stevan for this one.
The rules:
- pick up the closest book (no cheating to find a cool one)
- turn to page 123- read the first 5 sentences
- post the next 3 sentences
- tag 5 people
Ooh, this is kind of fun. I've got to admit, the closest book to my computer: The Anthem Provider Guide for our new health insurance, so I had to grab the NEXT closest....
"Those first few days with a kitten were not too different than when we had a crawling baby. She was into everything! We watched where we walked, carefully filled her water and food dishes, intently eyed her litter box for signs of 'life', and did plenty of snuggling."
- Huh, not too profound, eh?! I'm always bound to have a book for mommas lying around. This little clip comes from Mom, You Make A Difference! Encouraging Reminders from Real Moms (edited by Elisa Morgan)
Now, I'm tagging: Jodie, Krista, Angie, Lisa, and Jessica
The rules:
- pick up the closest book (no cheating to find a cool one)
- turn to page 123- read the first 5 sentences
- post the next 3 sentences
- tag 5 people
Ooh, this is kind of fun. I've got to admit, the closest book to my computer: The Anthem Provider Guide for our new health insurance, so I had to grab the NEXT closest....
"Those first few days with a kitten were not too different than when we had a crawling baby. She was into everything! We watched where we walked, carefully filled her water and food dishes, intently eyed her litter box for signs of 'life', and did plenty of snuggling."
- Huh, not too profound, eh?! I'm always bound to have a book for mommas lying around. This little clip comes from Mom, You Make A Difference! Encouraging Reminders from Real Moms (edited by Elisa Morgan)
Now, I'm tagging: Jodie, Krista, Angie, Lisa, and Jessica
Loads o' fun AND Loads o' pics!
Oh my goodness, what a weekend! What fun!!! Our friends, the Lakin family, live in New Jersey and were very excited when they heard that we were moving to New York! We're now only 5 1/2 hours from them, and they said that they would make the first trip! We had a great time with Ryan, Tina, Bryce, and Caleb.... it was so much fun to watch the boys enjoying time together, too! Thanks, Lakin's for making the trip! We love ya!
Osh Kosh buddies.... Isaac and Caleb!
Loads of fun at bathtime.... we had trouble getting all of the boys to smile for the camera at once, so I took some individual pics instead (Caleb was already in bed and didn't enjoy the bath party!)
Oh, what fun! Bryce brought his sleeping bag, and the two older boys camped out in Aaron's room on the floor both nights. They had fun giggling at first but eventually did fall asleep!
A weekend in Buffalo in February wouldn't be complete without some fun in the snow!
Osh Kosh buddies.... Isaac and Caleb!
Loads of fun at bathtime.... we had trouble getting all of the boys to smile for the camera at once, so I took some individual pics instead (Caleb was already in bed and didn't enjoy the bath party!)
Oh, what fun! Bryce brought his sleeping bag, and the two older boys camped out in Aaron's room on the floor both nights. They had fun giggling at first but eventually did fall asleep!
A weekend in Buffalo in February wouldn't be complete without some fun in the snow!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Bumps and Brakes...
"Mama said there'd be days like this....."
We started the day out as any other normal day.... until Aaron stripped his jammies to jump in the shower, and we realized his entire body, head to toe, is covered in hives.
One phone call to the doctor = one diagnosis = Aaron has developed an allergy to amoxicillan (bummer.... the pink stuff has always been pretty effective AND pretty cheap!)
The recommendation = stop the antibiotic immediately and start benadryl instead
The announcement to Aaron = plenty of tears because he wanted to go to school! Sorry, buddy.... the doctor said "No go" on that one.
Now, for the brakes.... so our emergency brake light has been coming on at random times while I'm driving = the need to get the van into the shop while that issue is still under warranty
While on the phone scheduling the appointment, I mention a little noise coming from the van, and the guy asks if we've had new brakes recently. I said, "Yes, about 13,000 miles ago."
This = LAUGHTER from the guy on the other end. Yeah, I had NO idea that people usually replace brake pads every year (so really, will y'all comment on that one.... ask your hubbies if necessary.... do YOU change your brake pads that often?!)
Anyway, we took it to the shop today.
New brakes and rotors = $349
In summary: Bumps + Brakes = BOO!!!!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Thankful Thursday...
Today, I am thankful....
1) For CHOCOLATE! It's Valentine's Day.... no explanation necessary! :)
2) For the fact that Aaron knows how to blow his nose. I keep hearing from kindergarten teachers that this isn't always the case. He's known how to blow his nose since he was 2.... and Isaac is on his way, too! He blew his nose for the first time this morning!!! YAHOO! It's amazing how much that little task helps! (sorry... maybe I shouldn't have listed this accomplishment right after the word CHOCOLATE.... HA!)
3) For the funny things that Aaron says. This morning, he was talking about a shirt that needed washed, and he asked if I would be putting it in the "Wetter and the Dryer." I thought that was pretty sweet.
4) For Google Reader!!!
5) For a 1-year home warranty! It's AWESOME that we can just call our builder and get most things fixed. As I mentioned before, we lost some shingles and had damaged siding in a wind storm.... such a blessing that they will be fixing it for us. One of our faucets had the hot and cold reversed.... I made one phone call.... the plumber came yesterday.... and I didn't have to write a check when he left! Hoorah!
6) For the fact that Aaron goes to school where Scott works! On many days, Scott takes Aaron to school. It's such a blessing to save the gas.... and to let Isaac sleep-in, unterrupted, if he likes.
Have a great day!
1) For CHOCOLATE! It's Valentine's Day.... no explanation necessary! :)
2) For the fact that Aaron knows how to blow his nose. I keep hearing from kindergarten teachers that this isn't always the case. He's known how to blow his nose since he was 2.... and Isaac is on his way, too! He blew his nose for the first time this morning!!! YAHOO! It's amazing how much that little task helps! (sorry... maybe I shouldn't have listed this accomplishment right after the word CHOCOLATE.... HA!)
3) For the funny things that Aaron says. This morning, he was talking about a shirt that needed washed, and he asked if I would be putting it in the "Wetter and the Dryer." I thought that was pretty sweet.
4) For Google Reader!!!
5) For a 1-year home warranty! It's AWESOME that we can just call our builder and get most things fixed. As I mentioned before, we lost some shingles and had damaged siding in a wind storm.... such a blessing that they will be fixing it for us. One of our faucets had the hot and cold reversed.... I made one phone call.... the plumber came yesterday.... and I didn't have to write a check when he left! Hoorah!
6) For the fact that Aaron goes to school where Scott works! On many days, Scott takes Aaron to school. It's such a blessing to save the gas.... and to let Isaac sleep-in, unterrupted, if he likes.
Have a great day!
So cool...
Regardless of where you stand politically during this election season, these pictures are adorable! Our dear friends, Stevan and Jessica, live in Wisconsin and attended a Huckabee rally last night. Stevan's big goal at the rally was to get Ella's pic with Huck.... mission accomplished! Doesn't he look like he'd be a terrific grandpa?!! :)
Happy Valentine's Day!
Sending lots of love from our family to yours! Hope that you all have a fantastic day!
Also, a little Valentine's story.... we have officially survived Aaron's first round of Valentine's! HOORAH! I was, obviously, thrilled when the paper came home from school stating that the class would be having a Valentine's Day party. However, much to my dismay, the paper also said something along the lines of, "I would like for your child to practice his/her writing and reading skills... blah, blah, blah." No, no, no.... However, thanks to a wonderful, patient grandma who was willing to help with the process, Aaron did great.... check out the finished products; yep, he's growing up, folks! It was super cute.... after about 6 of his little cards were completed, Aaron said, "I just need a little break.... my hand hurts...." Oh no, his first writer's cramp!!! :)
Another part of the story.... at the end of last week, I mentioned to Scott that I needed to head to the store to find some Valentine's for Aaron.... to which, he said, "But I thought that is why you are stamper...." and grinned. Punk!!! Doesn't he know that I can't even FIND all of my stamping supplies yet?!! :)
Oh, the concentration!
Edited to add: I really appreciated Christi's comment to this post. I just wanted to make sure everyone knows that I DO see the value in Aaron writing his own Valentine's. I, however, was just surprised to see this at the preschool level when they haven't even gotten to all of the letters of the alphabet yet! :) He actually was very proud of himself once it was all said and done!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Google Reader...
Okay, seriously, this is changing my life, and it's only been 24-hours!!! Maybe you've already signed up for it.... but if you haven't: YOU MUST!!! If you are already on Blogger, you probably already have a google username and password, so it's easy from there....
I read about this on my friend, Kelly's blog, and it's great (Scott is certain that he told me about it 3 months ago and that I didn't listen.... oops, sorry honey!) Basically, just go to google.com and go to "Reader." Then, you can "Add subscription(s)" and make a list of ALL the blogs that you browse. Then, from that point on, when you log onto google, it will tell you which blogs have new posts; hence, you never have to surf through your entire list again! Amazing! Amazing!
I read about this on my friend, Kelly's blog, and it's great (Scott is certain that he told me about it 3 months ago and that I didn't listen.... oops, sorry honey!) Basically, just go to google.com and go to "Reader." Then, you can "Add subscription(s)" and make a list of ALL the blogs that you browse. Then, from that point on, when you log onto google, it will tell you which blogs have new posts; hence, you never have to surf through your entire list again! Amazing! Amazing!
A few more shots...
... from this weekend. What a blessing it was to have time with Scott's folks! Tom and Kathy: thanks for making the trip!!!
My boys look like their daddy.... and their grandpa!
Monday, February 11, 2008
A new look...
You're at the right place.... I've just changed the look a bit. Thanks to my friend, Lisa, for talking/typing me through the details! Now that I've figured it out, maybe I'll change the look a little more frequently....
In other news, I am trying to find joy in the little things right now. Here is the joy from today: a new friend from church shared this frugal idea with us.... and we went on a field trip tonight and tried it out. There is an Indian reservation about 5 miles from our house.... an Indian reservation with a gas station that charged about 30 cents less per gallon than every other station in the area (maybe because the taxes aren't included? I really don't know why.... I'm not going to ask questions at this point, rather, am just finding joy in the little things....) Hoorah to saving a couple of bucks!
Oh.... one more thing that is giving me joy right now.... I took the picture for the new header of my blog.... the picture was out the back door of our old house right before we moved from Indiana. I like the picture.... I like it very much.
Edited to add: I just re-edited this post and realized I had typed "Indiana reservation".... huh, wishful thinking, maybe?!! :)
In other news, I am trying to find joy in the little things right now. Here is the joy from today: a new friend from church shared this frugal idea with us.... and we went on a field trip tonight and tried it out. There is an Indian reservation about 5 miles from our house.... an Indian reservation with a gas station that charged about 30 cents less per gallon than every other station in the area (maybe because the taxes aren't included? I really don't know why.... I'm not going to ask questions at this point, rather, am just finding joy in the little things....) Hoorah to saving a couple of bucks!
Oh.... one more thing that is giving me joy right now.... I took the picture for the new header of my blog.... the picture was out the back door of our old house right before we moved from Indiana. I like the picture.... I like it very much.
Edited to add: I just re-edited this post and realized I had typed "Indiana reservation".... huh, wishful thinking, maybe?!! :)
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Random things that I'm learning....
- There is generally more lake effect snow in the south part of Buffalo than in the north where we are at.
- It really helps to have someone to call to ask where to get a hair cut and where the closest dry cleaner is.
- People like to use their horns in Buffalo (thankfully, it's never been directed at me when driving.... not that I know of anyway!)
- "The Boulevard" is slow going at times (that's my main route to get anywhere).
- I miss my family like crazy.
- Traffic is a little different in Buffalo than in Warsaw, IN.
- Fazolis can't make it in Buffalo (darn.... there used to be one just down the road that went out of business). Scott and I are assuming that it's because Buffalo is a big Italian town.... and they REALLY know how to make Italian food. However, Fazolis will always be "Real Italian, Real Fast...." in my book (was that even their slogan?!)
- A good pediatrician is priceless.
- 3 inches of mud + 1 dog = Major headache + lots of laundry
- Reflux + 1 toddler = Sad mommy + sad baby + lots of laundry
- Our builder told us that there was only 1 train a day.... he lied (there are tracks way across a field from our house.... thankfully, it's not "wake the kids" loud and we've already gotten used to it).
- The Wiggles should get a raise.
- While we're at it, the Backyardigans animators should get a raise, too!
- Putting a few pictures on the walls makes it feel a little more like home.
- God is FOR us!
- I NEED a phone.... a real one (Feb. 21st = installation date! HOORAH!)
- I miss my girlfriends like crazy.
- It's hard to go on dates after a move. I keep telling myself, "One day, we'll REALLY find a babysitter!"
- It's HUGE that people are willing to visit us. Scott's parents.... my parents.... my sister.... the Lakin's.... it REALLY helps to have dates on the calendar to look forward to!
- Presby Preschool was phenomenal. I think that "Wee Cherub" is, too.
- The stomach flu eventually does go away.
- A book that I'm reading says that moving is emotionally traumatic. I agree.
- It helps to have that book.
- It helps to have my friend, Tina, who went through a move like this a few years ago.
- I like Super Walmart A LOT more than plain, ol' Walmart.
- Kennels are extremely overpriced in New York.
- Kids are pretty resilient but still are very smart.
- It's okay to let your kids see you cry sometimes.
- I like Target.... a lot.
- Aldi's apple juice costs A LOT less than anywhere else.
- It's fun to use "Skype" for video calls.
- Prevacid doesn't always work for babies (gross....)
- I want to kiss the inventor of the washer and dryer.
- It's hard to meet your neighbors in February in Buffalo.
- There are a lot of dogs on our street.
- There are a lot of little boys on our street (hoorah.... maybe we'll actually meet them someday!)
- It's okay to be lonely sometimes. It causes a person to turn to a Savior.
- Preschoolers like to draw pictures for old friends.
- Stamps are expensive.
- Caller ID is the best calling feature ever invented.... and I don't have it on my cell phone.
- Husbands are not designed to meet every relational need..... and that's OKAY.
- I like plush better than berber.
- It's perfectly acceptable to have boxes in the corner for weeks after a move when you have little ones.
- "Indiana Farmers" auto insurance won't be an option in New York.... Allstate will be a better option.
- It's illegal to talk on the phone and drive at the same time in NY.
- The water at the base of the Falls actually freezes.
- There are people who ski and tube on the Niagara River just upstream from the Falls. Those people are lunatics!
- TONS of electricity is produced at Niagara Falls. We don't use any of it in the city of Niagara Falls because they can get more money for it in NYC (are you kidding me?!!)
- I love it when God pour Truth into my life by guiding me through His Word. Last week, this verse showed up in every book that I picked up.... "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Thanks, Lord. I needed that.
-It's 12:43 AM and I should go to bed.
- If you actually made it to the end of this post, I love you! If you didn't and you just skipped to the end, I love you, too!
- It really helps to have someone to call to ask where to get a hair cut and where the closest dry cleaner is.
- People like to use their horns in Buffalo (thankfully, it's never been directed at me when driving.... not that I know of anyway!)
- "The Boulevard" is slow going at times (that's my main route to get anywhere).
- I miss my family like crazy.
- Traffic is a little different in Buffalo than in Warsaw, IN.
- Fazolis can't make it in Buffalo (darn.... there used to be one just down the road that went out of business). Scott and I are assuming that it's because Buffalo is a big Italian town.... and they REALLY know how to make Italian food. However, Fazolis will always be "Real Italian, Real Fast...." in my book (was that even their slogan?!)
- A good pediatrician is priceless.
- 3 inches of mud + 1 dog = Major headache + lots of laundry
- Reflux + 1 toddler = Sad mommy + sad baby + lots of laundry
- Our builder told us that there was only 1 train a day.... he lied (there are tracks way across a field from our house.... thankfully, it's not "wake the kids" loud and we've already gotten used to it).
- The Wiggles should get a raise.
- While we're at it, the Backyardigans animators should get a raise, too!
- Putting a few pictures on the walls makes it feel a little more like home.
- God is FOR us!
- I NEED a phone.... a real one (Feb. 21st = installation date! HOORAH!)
- I miss my girlfriends like crazy.
- It's hard to go on dates after a move. I keep telling myself, "One day, we'll REALLY find a babysitter!"
- It's HUGE that people are willing to visit us. Scott's parents.... my parents.... my sister.... the Lakin's.... it REALLY helps to have dates on the calendar to look forward to!
- Presby Preschool was phenomenal. I think that "Wee Cherub" is, too.
- The stomach flu eventually does go away.
- A book that I'm reading says that moving is emotionally traumatic. I agree.
- It helps to have that book.
- It helps to have my friend, Tina, who went through a move like this a few years ago.
- I like Super Walmart A LOT more than plain, ol' Walmart.
- Kennels are extremely overpriced in New York.
- Kids are pretty resilient but still are very smart.
- It's okay to let your kids see you cry sometimes.
- I like Target.... a lot.
- Aldi's apple juice costs A LOT less than anywhere else.
- It's fun to use "Skype" for video calls.
- Prevacid doesn't always work for babies (gross....)
- I want to kiss the inventor of the washer and dryer.
- It's hard to meet your neighbors in February in Buffalo.
- There are a lot of dogs on our street.
- There are a lot of little boys on our street (hoorah.... maybe we'll actually meet them someday!)
- It's okay to be lonely sometimes. It causes a person to turn to a Savior.
- Preschoolers like to draw pictures for old friends.
- Stamps are expensive.
- Caller ID is the best calling feature ever invented.... and I don't have it on my cell phone.
- Husbands are not designed to meet every relational need..... and that's OKAY.
- I like plush better than berber.
- It's perfectly acceptable to have boxes in the corner for weeks after a move when you have little ones.
- "Indiana Farmers" auto insurance won't be an option in New York.... Allstate will be a better option.
- It's illegal to talk on the phone and drive at the same time in NY.
- The water at the base of the Falls actually freezes.
- There are people who ski and tube on the Niagara River just upstream from the Falls. Those people are lunatics!
- TONS of electricity is produced at Niagara Falls. We don't use any of it in the city of Niagara Falls because they can get more money for it in NYC (are you kidding me?!!)
- I love it when God pour Truth into my life by guiding me through His Word. Last week, this verse showed up in every book that I picked up.... "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Thanks, Lord. I needed that.
-It's 12:43 AM and I should go to bed.
- If you actually made it to the end of this post, I love you! If you didn't and you just skipped to the end, I love you, too!
A quick update....
Wow, what a fun weekend! We're all on the mend.... Aaron's antibiotics are working.... his little rebellious spirit is back in full force (ug....).... AND we've had a great weekend with Scott's parents. We are so thankful that they made the trip out!
Yesterday, we made our first trip to Niagara Falls as a family! BRRR! It was cold and rainy.... we were probably out of the van for less than 10 minutes, and we couldn't get very close (as evidenced in the sign on the fence) but it was still fun to take the boys. It was the first time for my mother-in-law, too, so that made it fun as well. I've decided that I'm officially a dork though.... as we were driving up, I thought, "Huh, I wonder if the Maid of the Mist is running?!" Umm.... no. Can you say: solid ice at the bottom of the falls?!! It still was beautiful though. We won't be venturing out to the Canadian side for awhile.... we keep hearing mixed reports about the passport issue. And, for the record.... 18 minutes from the Falls to our house!!! We're up for visitors!!! :)
Sending out our LOVE from New York!!!
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Thankful Thursday...
Today, I am thankful...
1) That I have access to quality medical care for my children. Yeah, Aaron has been spiking a 103-104 degree temp since Monday, so I finally broke down and took him to a new pediatrician today. Yeah, he has strep. Ug.... I feel like a bad mommy for waiting so long to take him in , but motrin kept kicking the fever, so I thought he just was fighting a nasty virus. Anyway, TRULY thankful for the pediatrician he saw today.... SHE WAS AWESOME!!! She even showed Aaron exactly what she was going to do for the strep test on a puppet ("Dr. Moody") before she carried it out on him (and he got to give Dr. Moody a strep test, too!) Her bedside manner = A++! Sidenote: my funny husband asked ME if I asked HER if she's ever demonstrated how a rectal thermometer works on Dr. Moody.... my, my, my.... "Okay, kids.... now for the next demonstration...."
2) For my new grocery store. Seriously, I love this place!!! Ladies and gentleman.... THEY HAVE CHILDCARE!!!!!! Ages 3-8.... for up to 1 hour.... the only rules: the kiddos must be healthy and you must stay in the store! YAHOO!!!! The childcare workers are screened AND moms get a wristband sort of thing so you know they aren't going to give your kid to someone else. AND.... this store has a drive-up door where they LOAD YOUR GROCERIES FOR YOU. Hoorah. AND.... this store isn't really more expensive than most other places (some things are even pretty comparable to Super Walmart....) Thank you, Wegman's. I think I love you!
3) For safety in the midst of rotten weather. My sis-in-law and her family live in Nashville, and we were praying for them a lot in the midst of the storms this week; thankfully, they were all fine.
4) For EMPTY boxes!!! One of the most glorious parts of my days recently has been tearing apart empty boxes once I have things put away. It's such a great feeling!
5) For my in-laws' willingness to make a road trip to see us this coming weekend. We're all excited to see them!
1) That I have access to quality medical care for my children. Yeah, Aaron has been spiking a 103-104 degree temp since Monday, so I finally broke down and took him to a new pediatrician today. Yeah, he has strep. Ug.... I feel like a bad mommy for waiting so long to take him in , but motrin kept kicking the fever, so I thought he just was fighting a nasty virus. Anyway, TRULY thankful for the pediatrician he saw today.... SHE WAS AWESOME!!! She even showed Aaron exactly what she was going to do for the strep test on a puppet ("Dr. Moody") before she carried it out on him (and he got to give Dr. Moody a strep test, too!) Her bedside manner = A++! Sidenote: my funny husband asked ME if I asked HER if she's ever demonstrated how a rectal thermometer works on Dr. Moody.... my, my, my.... "Okay, kids.... now for the next demonstration...."
2) For my new grocery store. Seriously, I love this place!!! Ladies and gentleman.... THEY HAVE CHILDCARE!!!!!! Ages 3-8.... for up to 1 hour.... the only rules: the kiddos must be healthy and you must stay in the store! YAHOO!!!! The childcare workers are screened AND moms get a wristband sort of thing so you know they aren't going to give your kid to someone else. AND.... this store has a drive-up door where they LOAD YOUR GROCERIES FOR YOU. Hoorah. AND.... this store isn't really more expensive than most other places (some things are even pretty comparable to Super Walmart....) Thank you, Wegman's. I think I love you!
3) For safety in the midst of rotten weather. My sis-in-law and her family live in Nashville, and we were praying for them a lot in the midst of the storms this week; thankfully, they were all fine.
4) For EMPTY boxes!!! One of the most glorious parts of my days recently has been tearing apart empty boxes once I have things put away. It's such a great feeling!
5) For my in-laws' willingness to make a road trip to see us this coming weekend. We're all excited to see them!
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Another conversation with Aaron...
Me: What would you do with all your time if you didn't have your mommy and your daddy? (I asked.... wondering if he would say that he would eat fruit snacks, donuts, and pizza all day long while watching Backyardigans; instead, Aaron responded....)
A: But you'll always be my mommy and daddy.
Me: Yep, we'll always be your mommy and daddy; even when you're all grown up.
A: Yep, even when I'm old and a grandpa like in that book. (I think that he meant the "Love you forever" book)
Me: Will you always love your mommy?
A: Yep.
Me: Will you always love Jesus?
A: Yep. Even when I'm really old and don't have any teeth.
I have no idea where he came up with that.... however, I giggled out loud for about 5-minutes and am giggling again as I type it. Oh, the things kids say.... speaking of which, you simply MUST read my friend, Christi's blog entry on January 29th. That one had me laughing for a good 5-minutes, too!
A: But you'll always be my mommy and daddy.
Me: Yep, we'll always be your mommy and daddy; even when you're all grown up.
A: Yep, even when I'm old and a grandpa like in that book. (I think that he meant the "Love you forever" book)
Me: Will you always love your mommy?
A: Yep.
Me: Will you always love Jesus?
A: Yep. Even when I'm really old and don't have any teeth.
I have no idea where he came up with that.... however, I giggled out loud for about 5-minutes and am giggling again as I type it. Oh, the things kids say.... speaking of which, you simply MUST read my friend, Christi's blog entry on January 29th. That one had me laughing for a good 5-minutes, too!
Monday, February 04, 2008
The Ups and Downs of Life
The last couple of days have been full of ups and downs here.... thankfully, many more "ups" than downs! First, I've told a couple of people that when each Sunday rolls around, I often just think, "Wow.... I've made it to another Sunday," because Sundays have been reminding me of WHY we are here. The church is amazing... the preaching makes me think, REALLY think... the worship blesses my socks off (specifically, yesterday's worship set was amazing.... do you ever have those times when you think that the line-up of songs was set up JUST for you?! Yeah, I had one of those weeks.... amazing!) That was definitely an "UP."
Another wonderful positive... we invited some new friends over for the Superbowl last night and had a great time. Ken and Cassandra both work for The Chapel and are a very neat couple (they've been married less than 6 months).
I had fun looking at their beautiful wedding pictures!
As evidenced in this picture.... Isaac (and Ollie!) loved Ken!
As evidenced in this picture.... Isaac (and Ollie!) loved Ken!
A few more ups.... I tracked down a new pediatrician for the boys and filled out the registration paperwork and found a kennel for Ollie when we go to Florida in April. There are SO many details to cover after a move; it's been a bit overwhelming, but I'm trying to manage. One of the downs.... I've discovered a bit of difference in animal boarding compared to Indiana. We used to pay $10 per night.... now, $22!!! (and that's one of the more reasonable options! YIKES!)
Now, for the other "downs".... would you please say a prayer for our household? We have been fighting "bugs" since we arrived in Buffalo.... now, Scott is feeling rotten tonight and has been on the couch asleep since 6:00. Aaron had a horrible headache earlier, and Isaac threw up ON ME again today (Scott and I have been thrown up on more in the past week than the rest of our 5-years of parenting combined, I think!) No fun.... we have good moments where everything seems okay, and then, something hits one of us. It has certainly made the adjustment even more difficult. One day at a time.... His mercies are new EVERY morning!
A good laugh...
I love the Peyton "priceless" chats.... this website gave me a great laugh tonight, and I even dedicated the "I drive a minivan" option to my dear husband!!! :)
Saturday, February 02, 2008
A little taste....
.... from the other side of the world! I have recently been so privileged to reconnect with one of my wingmates from Taylor. She and her military man live in Okinawa.... and she's been SO encouraging to me throughout this moving process (thanks, girl!) I have such great memories of Jessica from college.... so much fun.... so full of life. And now.... I can stay "connected" with Jess and her family through her AWESOME blog! Oh, how I'd love to be able to take amazing pictures like this one! What a gift!
If you have a few minutes, check out their amazing pictures. I've never met her kiddos, but they continue to make me smile regularly through the blog. (and yes.... I did ask for Jessica's permission to share this link!!!) :)
Friday, February 01, 2008
A little worship....
Whew, a BIG thank you to Lisa for sharing this on her blog. Maybe the rest of the world has already heard this song.... but I hadn't.... and it absolutely blessed my socks off tonight. I NEEDED this time of worship tonight.... thanks, Lisa! Whew, our God is GOOD!
Kiddo Update
Wow, it's been an eventful couple of weeks for ALL of us. I keep posting updates on me.... thought I should post an update all about the boys. Aaron was THRILLED to start preschool yesterday, and when we told him he gets to go to school 5 days a week, he was overjoyed! It's so much fun to have a kiddo who loves to go to school.... he is such a social bug, and it's fun to hear him talking about other kids already. He was doubly thrilled about starting school yesterday because his new class has been studying the letter "P" this week.... and it was a Pajama Party day, complete with Pudding and Popcorn. Hello.... what's better than wearing pajamas on your first day of school?!!! (notice.... these jammies are PERFECT for him.... "I do my own stunts".... nothing could be more true about Aaron!)
When I picked him up yesterday, he didn't want to share many details, but just said, "I didn't talk very much.... I was a little bit nervous." However, when Scott checked in with his teacher later (yes, Aaron goes to school at The Chapel where Scott works), she said that Aaron was so cute and just kept saying, "We did this at my old preschool!" OR "We didn't do it this way...." Thank goodness for a patient teacher!!! :)
A not so fun development at our house.... Isaac has discovered that he can get into the bi-fold doors of the pantry at our new house. I rounded the corner to find pancake syrup on the floor in the living room.... thankfully, it was ALL still in the bottle! We WILL be figuring out a way to latch the door. It's about driving us crazy! 
Exciting news.... ISAAC EATS!!! As I've shared (I think....), Isaac was diagnosed with reflux in December, and it has been difficult to get this child to eat ANYTHING. Well, something finally "clicked" this week (hoorah for Prevacid!), and he has eaten more in the past couple of days than in the previous 1 1/2 months combined! Unfortunately, he got "bit" by mommy's stomach bug yesterday so his eating slowed down a bit, but we're hopeful that he will be as good as new in no time!!!
When I picked him up yesterday, he didn't want to share many details, but just said, "I didn't talk very much.... I was a little bit nervous." However, when Scott checked in with his teacher later (yes, Aaron goes to school at The Chapel where Scott works), she said that Aaron was so cute and just kept saying, "We did this at my old preschool!" OR "We didn't do it this way...." Thank goodness for a patient teacher!!! :)
A not so fun development at our house.... Isaac has discovered that he can get into the bi-fold doors of the pantry at our new house. I rounded the corner to find pancake syrup on the floor in the living room.... thankfully, it was ALL still in the bottle! We WILL be figuring out a way to latch the door. It's about driving us crazy! 
Exciting news.... ISAAC EATS!!! As I've shared (I think....), Isaac was diagnosed with reflux in December, and it has been difficult to get this child to eat ANYTHING. Well, something finally "clicked" this week (hoorah for Prevacid!), and he has eaten more in the past couple of days than in the previous 1 1/2 months combined! Unfortunately, he got "bit" by mommy's stomach bug yesterday so his eating slowed down a bit, but we're hopeful that he will be as good as new in no time!!!
Cute, cute, cute....
So, these boys are not nearly as cute as mine, but very cute, nevertheless. I'm loving the little accent.... adorable! (thanks for the giggle, Angie!)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)