MiniMe Mom

A fluffy post

2012-01-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

Sorry, folks.

It's been one of those weeks. I wish I could muster a bit more content here at the MiniMe Mom blog.

My girl that was sleeping eight hours at night is still sleeping eight hours....but it's not as easy on me now that it is from 2am-10am, instead of 11pm-7 am.

All three kids made their rounds at the doctor's office.

Kayden had an earache.

Tessa has a cough, fever, and runny nose.

Bryce may or may not have giardia again.

Stop laughing.

It's not funny.

My French teacher in high school used to quip every Friday as we left her classroom, "Viva La Weekend!"

Long live the weekend, indeed, Mrs. Terpstra.

If nothing else, I am ready for some help loading the never ending stream of medicine syringes.

P.S.-Want to know where she thinks the giardia came from? See above photo.

Personally, I think it is from Bryce licking the floor at the mall a few weeks ago.

Why, Bryce?

2012-01-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

My bathroom toilet has been in and out of service for a few weeks.

Josh would fix the clog; the boys would use too much toilet paper and clog it right back up.

It has been a never ending battle.

Add to that the stomach flu passing through all three men of the house...I have gone through four cans of lysol and three large tubs of wipes.

Today, Josh set out to find out what the true issue was with that toilet.

He augered and plunged and augered and plunged.

After an hour, came downstairs victorious.

Lysol was sprayed on every last living surface up there, so that my bathroom could again be in use.

Our family Christmas party was this afternoon at a local hotel. The boys were thrilled that they were going to get to go swimming, even though it was snowing. Bryce could barely wrap his mind around how that was going to happen.

After a morning of being crabby, we told Bryce that he needed to at least lay down for a half hour in order to have the privilidge of going.

Twenty minutes into his nap, I went up to see if he was sleeping and start packing swimsuits.

I noticed the bathroom floor was flooded with water.

One look into the toilet, and the reason was clear.

An entire roll of toilet paper was wadded up in the bowl.

I asked, okay, shrieked, "Bryce, what have you done?"

"I didn't do it, Mom," he replied. "I think Kayden did."

"Try again," I said. "Kayden has been downstairs playing basketball this entire time."

Bryce: "Well, then it was Baby Tessa."

Me: "How did the floor get all wet?"

Bryce: "I kept flushing til the water overflowed."

While Josh picked up the bathroom (thank you, dear!), I found an entire wall scribbled with pen and my Bible in a heap on my bed with a page ripped.

At the rate we are going, the kid is not going to have any toys left.

As I was feeding Tessa upon our arrival home, Bryce said he was picking up. Proud as punch, I praised him for picking up without my even asking.

He set the pillow back up on the couch, and was tidying up Tessa's diaper bin.

I heard him up in the playroom, and figured some toy had probably distracted his janitorial service.

A few minutes passed, and I realized he was quiet.

Too quiet.

I got up to double check where he was, and he stopped me to tell me not to go in his playroom.

There, in the middle of the room, was my new faiting sofa, freshly recovered from Josh's dad for Christmas.

Smack in the middle was a return address stamp for MiniMe BabyGear.

After being punished and put to bed early, I just went back up to check on him and tell him I still love him, even though I am dissapointed.

I asked him why he was so naughty today.

He replied, "Mom, I just couldn't control myself."

God is Good

2011-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

Her name is Maddie.

She is four years old with a rare form of cancer.

They were dear friends of ours when we lived in California.

Her diagnosis came about a month after we found out about Tessa. Her mom just had a baby, and their family all lived in the mid-west. The shuffling they had to do between appointments and hospital stays, the unknowns of how chemo was going to affect Maddie- my heart immediately went out to them.

I wouldn't say misery loves company, because I would never want anyone to go through the year either of us had.

Misery loves understanding, and there is something about someone knowing where you have been that is so comforting.

Around 22 weeks, I got a note in the mail from Maddie's mom.

Scrawled across a plain white sheet of notebook paper were the words "God is Good".

I will be honest.

At that point, I didn't feel like God was all that Good to me.

I felt abandoned.

Forsaken.

Forgot about.

But that little message, from someone who was in the "pit of despair" with me, spoke volumes.

As time marched on, I felt God revealing his plan.

Bringing peace while I was waiting.

Giving hope.

Her miraculous birth.

Watching her grow.

Family and friends who were the feet of Christ.

I can say with absolute certainty.

God is good.

Psalm 40:2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

As I reflect back on the roller coaster year of 2011, I praise God for keeping me safe in His grasp, even when it felt otherwise.

Wishing you a wonderful 2012!

Tessa Update

2011-12-28T21:47:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I have updated on Tessa.

No news is good news, right?

Overall, this girl is a delight to my soul. It's no secret I love this baby stage. I am reveling in her little grunts and baby noises, bath time and burping. So often, I find myself starting to pray for someone else, and ending up praising God again for her life.

She smiles and coos easily- the boys are finally seeing that it can be fun to have a baby around.

Tessa girl is weighing in at a whopping 11 pounds, 4 ounces. She got her second RSV shot this past Sunday. She absolutely hates it (I have heard it is thick because it is antibodies as opposed to a vaccination), but Walgreens makes it very convenient by coming to our house. Her home healthcare nurse is very nice.

Caffeine was discontinued two weeks ago. If she can make it the next week or so without an alarm, we will be wireless. I am not sure how I feel about that. I have come to rely on the monitor. I have watched her stop breathing enough times that it still scares me, even though it hasn't happened in a long time. Dressing her will probably get easier, though.

She had her first cold the week before Christmas, and managed to make it through without a hospital visit (praise the Lord!)

Sleeping is much better. She now sleeps about 6 hours straight, wakes up to eat, and then goes back down for two more hours. Amazing what a little sleep will do for a person! :-)

We have four doctors visits in the next two weeks. The biggest and lengthiest one is her developmental progress check on the 9th. She meets with six or seven different people to make sure she is on track for her adjusted age.

Please keep Tessa in your prayers, that she is developing normally. As always, that she remains illness free.

I hope you had a joyous holiday. Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow!

12th

2011-12-18T21:04:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow morning, if you wake up
and the future is unclear....I will be here

Words sung 12 years ago to the day, never more clear to me than during this past year.

A few random thoughts while looking through photos tonight...

~our wedding was the first and last day that Josh wore his ring
~child bearing takes quite the toll on one's body
~I really liked gold apparently
~15 pictures (out of 150) were of our marriage certificate. Wish there were digital cameras back then!
~the bouquet looks awfully heavy. Right, mom?

Happy Anniversary to my husband, my partner, my best friend, my shoulder to cry on.

Nobody's Fool

2011-12-16T22:59:00.001-08:00

I have promised to dig this out for a while.

Okay, three years to be exact.

Don't get too excited.

I am a glorified extra.

From Wiki:
The Parkers is an American sitcom . A spin-off of UPN's Moesha, The Parkers featured the mother-daughter team of Nikki (played by Mo'Nique) and Kim Parker (played by Countess Vaughn). The Parkers' signature "Heeyyy" greeting made its way into popular vernacular in the early 2000s (decade).

This episodes premise: Nikki has been selling Lady Egyptian cosmetics and finds out that Lady Egyptian is a complete fraud. She sets out to expose her at a taping for her cosmetic line.

Warning: the foul language is beeped out, but you can still tell what they are saying.

Fast forward to 7:37 to see the segment...

Two Slices of Bread

2011-12-06T19:09:00.000-08:00

Lunch is kind of a non-event around the Bird house.

Most often, I serve Bryce chicken fingers or leftovers.

Sometimes I get creative and boil up mac and cheese.

Every once in a while, it involves a toy in a box.

You get the idea- no fuss.

Simple.

Easy to do with a baby sleeping in my arms and two dogs under foot.

Lately, Bryce has taken a liking to bread.

Plain bread.

No cheese.

No meat.

No PB or J.

Just bread.

He probably would like honey drizzled on top, but Josh and I keep forgetting to purchase it on grocery day.

And you know I am NOT going all the way back to Meijers for a bottle of honey.

I digress.

A few days ago, Bryce yet again went into the fridge for his two slice main course.

As he was walking to the living room to sit down and have a "carpet picnic"- which is my term for him eating on the living room floor so I can relax on the couch while he eats because it takes him forever to gobble up two plain pieces of bread- I had the idea to surprise him with one of his favorites, an individually wrapped package of goldfish.

Due to expense, they are normally saved for Kayden's lunch. Bryce had been such a great kid, and so helpful, that I really wanted to reward him.

Plus, I feel guilty he eats like our ducklings.

My stubborn child did not want to see what I had for him.

He wanted what he wanted, and that was all there was to it.

He clutched one piece in each hand and, almost to the point of crumbling both of them, held on tight.

No amount of coercion would get him to see that something better might be in my hand than the bread in his.

I know I have done a lot of reflecting around here lately, so I hope I have not tired you with my anecdotes.

Of all my blessings from God, I would have to say my family tops the list.

I don't think that is a bad thing.

On January 17, I admitted that I had finally surrendered trying to control my family to God, after a long struggle with clutching them ever so tightly.

With both hands finally wide open, God gave me more than I even asked for bringing Tessa to our family.

Don't get me wrong. Looking at this from the top of the mountain is so much easier than from mid-climb. Many days, I questioned if I would ever get here. No doubt about it, I would have chosen an easier path in lieu of the extra blessings we received along the long and arduous journey.

See this beautiful dress Tessa is wearing?

My good friend Chelle reminded me of the significance this tulle and satin represents.

Two days after Tessa was born, Heidi and Kristi brought me a bag full of girly goodies, including this outfit.

Visions of her much, much larger and able to wear this were simultaneously uneasy and yet incredibly wonderful. Her future had been uncertain for so long that it was strange to immediately flip that switch and believe she was alive and thriving. For the first four days, I asked every medical person that I could find about Tessa's lungs. I needed constant reassurance that they wouldn't all the sudden become hypoplastic.

As I put her in this dress, my heart sings with a gratitude and joy that last Christmas I never thought I would experience. I am reminded that sometimes I need to stop clutching and open my hands wide for all the blessings God wants to bestow.

Psalm 31:19 How great is your favor, which you store up for your loyal followers! In plain sight of everyone you bestow it on those who take shelter in you.

Twins

2011-12-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

When I took this picture of Tessa yesterday, I could have swore I had seen it before.

They certainly have the double chins in common:-)

Rethink

2011-11-28T17:25:00.001-08:00

Kayden: Mom, when is your baby going to be born?
Me: What do you mean, K? Are you talking about Tessa?
Kayden: No, not Tessa. Your other baby.
Me: Honey, there is no other baby. Tessa is mommy's final baby.
Kayden: Well, then why does it look like there's another baby in your belly?

I might need to rethink my decision to wait until after the holidays to lose my remaining ten.

Thankful.

2011-11-24T23:32:00.000-08:00

It was my fault, really.

In true fashion, I waited until the last minute to start preparing my dish to pass for today.

Everything fell apart when I realized I had to get all three kids dressed, finish the Apple Crisp, change my clothes and put makeup on, and get the car loaded in a half hour.

Calamity.

Of course I needed a picture of all three of them to mark Thanksgiving 2011 on the books.

All three were bawling for the first 10 pictures. I may or may not have bribed them with candy.

Although our "photo shoot" was a bust, it's pretty clear what I am thankful for.

Psalm 145:7
They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Sewing and Sitting

2011-11-19T10:20:00.000-08:00

Have I ever told you how my love affair with sewing began?

We were newly married, living separate lives. Josh taught during the day. I was waitressing at night.

There were many long, lonely hours in our apartment.

Shopping is only fun when you have money.

My mom suggested I find a hobby.

Long before Project Runway made it cool, I watched a friend of ours sew a crisp red banner for Redlands Christian and it looked fun.

Excitedly, I told my mom about the new craft I wanted to master and she offered up her machine. A 15-year-old Singer, solid metal hunk of a machine. As I lugged it through three airports and two car rides, I am pretty certain it weighed at least fifty pounds.

"The next time I come out to California, I will teach you," said Jan.

Visions of new dresses, fabulous tops, and fashionable hand sewn accessories flooded my mind. My patience couldn't wait long enough for my mom's tutelage. Seven library books taught me the basics of about gathering, basting, buttons, and back stitch.

A new robe was the first thing I wanted to assemble, so I headed to JoAnns. To my surprise, the fabric would cost me $30.

I could purchase it new for that.

Futhermore, I didn't want to spend all that money to mess up and have to throw it out. We could go to In and Out three times for that kind of dough, after all.

Without a baby on the horizon, I decided that would be my first style to master. One yard would yield an entire outfit with booties, hat, and bloomers to match. I found a great deal on pink flannel and lace, and set to work sewing this:

Side note: Nastalgic to a fault, it was the first blanket I used with Tessa girl. I cherish this, although there are so many flaws and mistakes.

I wish you could see it in person. I actually hand sewed the entire binding. If you know anything about me, you will know that (now) I would rather break ten needles trying to shove it through my machine than hand sew a single stitch.

The next year was spent sewing everything. Nothing was off limits. I loved purchasing a new pattern from the store, picking out just the right material, and sitting down with a cup of hot chocolate and my Singer.

Josh parents gifted me with a brand new embroidery sewing machine on Valentine's Day in 2003. Working with a machine that threaded the bobbin without me hand reeling it was a treat. It remains one of my most treasured gifts.

Then I started sewing for work.

It was fun at first. The thrill of seeing something sell.

Three years and hundred and hundreds of hours into it, somewhere it lost it's luster.

I rarely wanted to sew on my time off.

I did not want to create.

Sitting behind the sewing machine for pleasure reminded me of the many projects sitting next to me that had to be finished. It was easier to get those completed than sit down with a fresh yard and an idea.

Even the fabric store, which I previously loved to peruse, lost it's appeal.

Being on bedrest forced me to, well, rest.

Let go of obligations.

Clear the schedule.

And as much as I miss going out and about with Tessa, there is such beauty in this season.

Before this happened, I would describe my life as a constant state of running (aren't we all?!)

23 round trips to Ypsilanti, regular OB visits, Kayden's basketball practices and Saturday games, Josh's coaching, church obligations, volunteering, room mom, class projects, committees, field trips, keeping the house clean, bringing meals, dinners, coffee dates, MiniMe BabyGear....the list goes on and on and on.

I never said No.

By the end of the day, I would lay down to start praying, and crash in the first few minutes of prayer. My intentions were good, I was just so stinking tired.

Running so much, I didn't have time to sit down with God. Relax in my favorite spot on the couch and read my Bible. Pray for others. Listen. Write things down I want to work on.

There is great fellowship with God in the quiet. Rather, the quiet and conscious. I didn't even realize what I was missing.

Two years ago, a lot of my friends did "Activity Buckets"- you put a bunch of ideas of things you can do together on crumpled up on slips of paper inside a bin, and then draw one out each day to complete.

I always wanted to do it, but was too busy.

We have instituted a new after dinner routine:

Each picks an activity and we play together until they fight:-)

I can say with certainty that I am loving this season of staying home. Although I wouldn't characterize our lives with a very feisty newborn as idle, there is charm in this stage of our lives.

I am even sewing again for fun:

"The men who have done the most for God in this world have been early on their knees. He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuits than seeking God will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day. If God is not first in our thoughts and efforts in the morning, He will be in the last place the remainder of the day." E.M. Bounds

Geh

2011-11-16T18:03:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a bit more substantial post.

However.

I was messing around with my camera tonight, and Bryce wanted his picture taken. Looking through them, I realized my poor little boy looks homeless.

The two hours between Josh coming home and bedtime leave little time for Super Cuts.

Kid needs a haircut, stat.

I mean, other than the one he gave himself.

PS- isn't the " blue mustache" a special treat?

Oh, the joys of being outnumbered:-)

This rarely happens.

2011-11-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

Josh was right.

9 lbs 1 ounce, and doing fabulous for her corrected age of six weeks (4 months actual).

Her height is 21 1/4", which is six inches longer than she was at birth.

She is in the 25% all around.

Dr. Kruggel says she thinks her cheeks might just be a little bigger.

Good thing I love fat babies:-)

Oh, and I am kidding. Josh is right far more often than I am!

The outfit

2011-11-09T18:05:00.000-08:00

The talented Katie DeBoer's gift to me when Tessa was born was the fabulous photo shoot she did, which captured our NICU stay so perfectly.

I cherish those photos, and am so thankful for that gift.

It was more than I could even ask for.

Imagine my surprise when she handed me a gift bag at school one afternoon, with this adorable outfit.

"Well, there is a story behind it," she said.

It has to do with the receipt, specifically the date on the receipt.

It took me a few minutes to figure it out.

Anyone want to guess why this outfit is so special?

Familia update

2011-11-08T18:31:00.000-08:00

So, how is Tessa girl doing?

Other than her lack of sleep at night, she is awesome. She sleeps between 2-3 hours between 11pm-5am. Around 4:30-5, I hand her off to Josh to catch some ZZZZs before our day starts.

This morning, I missed preschool.

Oops. Sorry Bryce.

She is still on caffeine, thus still on an apnea monitor. Once she has zero alarms for two weeks, they will take her off the caffeine, and then monitor her for another 2 weeks.

In all truth, I like the monitor most of the time. Especially when she is sleeping.

Tessa is not allowed out, except for doctor's appointments. The biggy for her is RSV. Because her bronchial tubes are already more narrow, it could be very detrimental to her. This month, she will start getting the ever expensive Synergis shot. At $1500 a pop, these monthly shots run through April and are supposed to help minimize the seriousness should she get it.

That girl has been feisty since the day she was born, and I think she gets more stubborn every day.

She hates to be put down.

Still in newborn clothes, but probably not for long.

In all seriousness, she farts louder than an old man. I cannot believe this girl's bottom. Her features are so dainty and she just lets them rip.

Already, you can tell she has brothers.

We take illness pretty serious around the Bird home.

Josh has worn a mask for the last week because he has bronchitis.

These boys are so happy we are home.

They missed their momma and I missed them.

My one goal lately is to spend more time in active playtime. I can easily get caught up in housework and tasks and to do lists, but the fragility of human life was never more present to me than with Tessa girl.

Tomorrow is not a guarantee.

We have a weigh in on Friday. My guess is 8.5 lbs.

Josh says closer to nine.

Any other guesses?

Hello again.

2011-11-05T18:17:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's sad that I didn't even remember my password for this blog.

Been a while.

My apologies.

As such, I also apologize in advance that this post is going to be a little all over the place.

You were warned.

I have mentioned here before that getting pregnant with Kayden was a surprise.

To be completely honest, I did not think much would change when he was born.

My mom came out for two weeks to put the remaining touches on the nursery and help once he arrived. She looked at me so funny when I told my dog Tia how much I loved her and that Kayden wouldn't take her place when he was born.

Naviety at it's finest.

I had no idea how intense my love for him would be.

The day I came home from the hospital in October of 2004, a Walmart run was neccesary. Blankets, bibs, baby shoes, diapers were all overflowing in his nursery. Unfortunately, I completely forgot about MY needs- aspirin, nursing accessories, etc.

Guess that happens when you are a first time mom.

With Josh holding a sound asleep Kayden, he repeated over and over "It's going to be okay. I got this" while trying to push me out the door.

I will not get into the nitty gritty, but Kayden's birth was tough. And long. And horrible.

Getting hit with a semi might have been easier.

I couldn't walk any measure of distance for about three weeks, so the challenge was how I was going to navigate the rows of discounted goods and racks of low priced bargains.

Enter: motorized shopping.

It is just as much fun as it looks.

Every last elderly person looked at me like I was very, very strange

After we checked out I remember sitting in my car, waiting for Josh to pick up the phone to tell me everything was fine. Afterall, the last six times I checked hadn't quite pacified me.

We hung up, and I started bawling huge crocodile tears, asking my mom how could I ever live without that kid now that I knew how great it was to be his mom?

I did not know what to do with the love pouring out of my heart.

Motherhood changed me.

Everything was different.

Since my last post at MiniMe Mom, so much has changed. I look at this blog and don't even feel like the same person that posted in April before our world fell apart.

I used to always feel that when I blogged about my relationship with God, it seemed forced or an afterthought or like I was trying too hard.

A red stool in my bathroom sits directly in front of my linen closet, and sometimes I use it to sit and pray on. Somewhere in February or March, I remember praying that I would be able to share my faith in a real way through my blog.

Be careful what you pray for:-)

Going through this past six months, I feel deeper. God isn't an afterthought or something to add on to appear more "Christian". Almost every relationship in my life has gotten richer because of this refining.

I wouldn't necessarily say I want to go through it again, but I can see so much beauty looking backwards.

So why close out Tessa's blog and come back here?

When Bryce was a baby, I was talking to a friend whose brother died after a long battle with cancer. She was in high school at the time and I asked her how her parents did at balancing time between kids.

She relayed that she understood why her parents spent so much time focusing just on her brother but knowing did not make her feel any less good about them missing her prom.

To say that I replayed that conversation mentally is an understatement.

I struggled all summer to try and make my other two kids feel loved and important, even though this has definitely been the year of Tessa.

Tessa's blog was hard to walk away from. I poured my heart out. I loved reading comments. It became an outlet and a support system simultaneously.

But it didn't include my boys.

So, here is to NEW beginnings with all three of my kiddos and Joshy B.

and maybe every once in a while the dogs.

Trains, Helmets, and Memory Lane

2011-04-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

I love three.

Full of mischief, excitement, and surprising comments; not a day goes by that I do not chuckle at Bryce. I adore this age....you know, minus the whining and destruction part.

Three years ago, he was this little bundle of ooey gooey goodness.

And now, he wants to wear a bike helmet to bed.

Opening presents in the morning.

After ripping open a present, Bryce would say "What's next?"

Kayden opening their joint present from Justin and Amber.

Birthday cake complete with working train, thanks to Gma and Gpa Bird.

All in all, a great day.

Dutch roots backfired

2011-03-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

Birthdays were always made a huge deal growing up. My mom and dad always took great care to make us feel special on our big day. They still do. During teenage years, my mom even let me skip school to spend one on one time with her at Woodland Mall every November.

As I have gotten older, it is definitely more fun to celebrate the boys' birthdays than my own.

Great Wolf Lodge has become the place we gravitate to celebrate. Kayden requested it two years ago, and the tradition has carried down to Brycer.

The only problem: it is far easier to get a room mid-October than first of April.

The closest we could get was last weekend. We banked on staying two nights, but only booked one. Every other time we have gone, a slip has been placed under the door offering a great deal if you extend your stay to the second night.

Josh awoke at 7 am and headed to the front desk to partake in our good deal. $369 for the same room we had just paid $160 for. Guess we will have to book two nights next time. The Dutch roots backfired on me:-)

Kayden was so proud that he rode the slides by himself, and Brycer had a great time hopping the slides in the kiddie pool. Both boys favor the basketball hoops, although it was out of commission the first night after a Code AFR.

Upon leaving, Kayden burst into tears, wanting to know when we could visit again.

Overall, it was a great overnight trip to celebrate Bryce's upcoming birthday. Cannot believe my baby is about to be three years old!

Pet Peeve of the Week

2011-03-15T17:36:00.001-07:00

Perhaps having the flu made me cranky, but these things annoyed me this week.

In descending order:

3. Wearing your sunglasses indoors. At ten o'clock at night. I might understand if we, you know, actually had sunlight here in Michigan.

2. Using text language in real life. Hearing WTH? or LOL or TTYL roll off a person's tongue just doesn't seem natural.

1. I am not opposed to dog sweaters, or canine clothes for that matter. I don't mind dog purses, but I don't love puppy strollers. What really annoys me most of all is....dog shoes. It just seems inhumane. I have yet to see a dog walking normally while wearing a pair of boots.

I suppose it could be worse, though....

I am guessing they are not Louboutins.

Something dawned on me tonight

2011-02-19T17:52:00.001-08:00

Upward Basketball

2011-02-19T17:25:00.000-08:00

Our Saturdays this winter have been spent watching Kayden play basketball.

One phrase has pretty much summed the experience: "Pass the Ball!"

We have quite the ball hog on our hands.

It is a process.

I could not be more impressed with the league.

Ever week at practice, the final few minutes are spent in devotions. Each child gets a Bible memory card. If they remember the verse, the next week they get a star to iron on their shirt.

Coming out of the "pre-game locker room"

As each kid gets their name announced, they run from behind the curtain. A spotlight shines on them, with smoke billowing as they enter. I think this is my favorite part. The never ending chaos of confusion of where to run provides a good laugh each week.

At half-time, a short devotional from the weekly verse is preached. I have really enjoyed the devotionals- the leaders have made them interesting and relatable.

After the game, more stars are handed out for Christ0like behavior, good defense, etc. A snack is provided in the "post-game locker room".

Kayden wore the uniform for three days straight when he got it. He loves this league, and I am so disappointed it is almost finished!

All Clear for Takeoff

2011-02-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

My kids are absolutely fascinated by airplanes. All summer, we went to the Grand Rapids Airport overlook to watch planes. Many an afternoon was spent eating lunch on the grassy space south of the runway.

The treat of all treats came today, as a friend of the family took the boys up to the control and radar room. I can honestly say that I enjoyed more than they did! It is interesting to see what all goes into moving airplanes in and out.

In the tower, you can see for miles and miles--all the way downtown, and out to the smoke stacks on Port Sheldon. It was neat to hear the pilots talking to the tower and see airplanes taking off and landing first hand.

We also got to go into the radar room, which is unlike anything I expected. Completely black, with just the lights from the radar screens and clocks illuminating the room. I felt like we were on a space ship LOL

It was one day the boys will never forget! Kayden already asked me if we can go back on Monday, to which we told him this was a one-time deal.

This lady

2011-02-09T18:41:00.000-08:00

ADVANCE NOTICE: I am about to get sappy.

I mentioned in my last post that this pregnancy has been an uphill journey for me. The support of my friends helped me tremendously.

I wanted to devote an entire post to these people, though. My parents.

Going in to egg retrieval, the doctor's knew there was a pretty good chance I would get really sick with OHSS. And oh, did I get sick. A good, solid 5-6 days of being sick. About three days into it, I could not keep any food down, so they wanted me to come in for an ultrasound and IV fluids.

I will never forget the love and support I felt as I was sobbing on my bed, and my parents loving embrace as they tried to comfort me. I was beside myself that, on top of all the money we had to pay, I might have to pay $1500 more to have fluid drained from my abdomen.

Time and again, they have stepped up to the plate to help me out. Only in my adult years have I learned that not all parents are like this. Not all parents will drop everything in their own life to support their kids.

Throughout these last few emotional weeks, my mom has been by my side every day to keep my mind off things.

Blessed beyond measure, I am.

A little late

2011-02-09T05:59:00.000-08:00

...but I guess better late than never!

Christmas was weeks and weeks ago, and I just recently dusted off the old camera to take a peek at the pictures.

Unfortunately, this one represents Christmas all too well. Kayden playing keep a way with Bryce's pipe.

With Token (Amber and Justin's new dog). The kids are in love.

Papa and Grandma always spoil!

New Lego shoes from Justin and Amber

Yes, this was the best picture I got with my boys.

What color is the theme of the day?

So thrilled with their Legos!

Birthday Cake for Jesus

The best picture I could get of all five of them. Bryce was not.into.it. At all.

We had a great Christmas, and are so thankful for great friends and family, and especially Jesus birth over 2000 years ago.

A Year in the Making

2011-02-08T15:45:00.000-08:00

Last year, I went to New York with Michelle and Katie. The second day there, I took a pregnancy test and it was positive.

I was thrilled.

Unfortunately, the day after we got home, it was confirmed that I lost that pregnancy.

I was crushed.

We decided to take six months off, and save some money for the IVF process. It has been a difficult road, to say the least. Day after day, I poured my heart out through a private blog, recording my feelings (and thankful for an outlet to vent about the process). As time went on, Michelle, Natalie, and Cara were so involved with cheering me on, crying with me, and uplifting me that it become my way of communicating with the three of them.

In the past few days, I have shared the link with more and more friends going through the process. It can be really helpful to know you are not alone, what to expect, etc. You are welcome to check it out here:

infertilitystruggles.blogspot.com

I am breaking precedence and outing myself early (I am 6 weeks, 4 days pregnant). I know all of you old school moms are cringing:-) But, I really feel like I need the prayers. Please pray for my acceptance of God's will for this baby, no matter what. 33 more weeks feels like a LOOONNGG time.

Our precious bean, Baby Birdie Number Three. Due October 1, 2011.

Pit Stop

2011-01-17T21:17:00.000-08:00

When I was in junior high school, one of my mom's best friends was my Sunday School teacher. One week, she shared a story that I have not forgotten.

Her brother was a respected OB/GYN. After graduating, he felt the Lord leading him to work in low-cost clinics to help woman that could not afford proper medical care.

The clinic was so poor, in fact, that they did not have extra staff to spare a nurse's presence in the room for physicals.

One afternoon, he cared for a woman who ultimately accused him of assaulting her. Although my mom's friend knew he was not guilty, the high powered attorneys representing this woman shed a doubt over his innocence and he was sent to prison for many years.

She went on to explain that once her brother was convicted, her life went on hold. She likened it to a race track. God and life had continually gone around the circle, yet she felt like she was in a spiritual pit-stop. It took letting go of it all in order to continue her relationship with Jesus.

As uncool as it was (I was in junior high, remember), I choked back tears hearing her pain and being touched by the honesty in which she spoke of her spiritual struggles.

Little did I know it would be 16 years later I recalled it.

I can pinpoint my pit-stop exactly. Bryce contracting RSV; that was the moment for me. Until then, having a healthy child was a given. I carried the illusion that bad stuff would happen to someone else, not me.

Sitting in that hospital room, praying over his little body after being told they were uncertain if he would live or die. The ache I felt in those moments has left me paralyzed with fear for the past few years of my life.

Looking back, it's interesting to me how long ago that was and how blessed we have been since. Everything turned out okay, and yet I remain focused on fear instead of deliverance and gratitude.

I have felt frozen.

It felt that if I let go of control, God would not carry me. I realize control is an illusion, but there were certain things that I just wasn't willing to completely surrender.

I do not want to go into exact details, but these last few weeks have been really tough for me. It has made me realize my deep need for Jesus, in spite of everything else that I have grasped so tightly these past few years. That He is the only thing that matters.

I know, it is a weighty post for a Monday evening.

But if you are willing, I would love to hear about any pit-stops you have had in life. Any verses you used to get past them?

Hold me close, Lord. Don't ever let me go.

Fish Follow Up

2010-12-18T05:34:00.001-08:00

One down, Three to Go...

Eleven Years

2010-12-17T20:51:00.001-08:00

More than any other year, I have really gotten to "see" Josh this year.

I have had to rely on him in ways that I haven't in the past.

Lessons have been learned about how awesome he is as a leader, and just how much that man loves me.

The boys adore him, and I sincerely thank God that they have such a wonderful role model to look up to. If both of them turn out just like him, I would consider myself one lucky lady.

Thus far, they both have the basketball part down.

Unofficially titled "Why Josh is the Coolest Ever":

Even when he deserves to be, he is never critical. Never once has he told me my breath stinks, I look fat in a dress, or if I could please not wear my retainers to bed.

This summer, when my brother got married, almost every picture of Josh was of him engaged in an act of service for someone else- holding the door open, moving flowers, helping the minister out. Can you find him? :-)

Last Saturday, I went to Chicago with my mom and sister in law on the Amtrak train. Josh woke me up to make sure I got out of bed on time (with a back rub, none the less). A peeled orange was on my dresser for breakfast when I got out of the shower. When I came downstairs, Josh had my gloves and hat laid out for me, along with GPS directions in my phone for how to get to the train station and where to park.

I am humbled that God chose me to marry this man.

In an effort to lighten up this post, I have included a few pictures from years past. My digital camera only goes back to 2004, but here are a few favorites:

Yes, that is our dogs in a baby stroller. No, he did not take them for a walk.

Neglected

2010-12-12T20:57:00.000-08:00

This blog has been neglected.

Partly because I have not had much to say.

Christmas concerts,

seeing the trains at Meijer Gardens,

lots of MMBG work,

seeing Santa, and all the other activities surrounding this joyous time of year have kept the Bird household very busy.

Hope your season has been as activity filled and happy as ours.

My handicapped fish

2010-11-09T19:01:00.000-08:00

We have a 20 lb aquarium set up in our kitchen that housed 3 goldfish. We have had it for a few years, and I have found goldfish therapeutic. Sometimes, I put my face next to the tank and watch them scrounge for food or pick at each other's fins.

To my surprise, I noticed we had a handicapped fish. He was missing his left eye. As such, he became my special buddy--the one I consistently dropped food near. He needed an advantage, right?

At the Halloween Hulabaloo this year, my kids came home with 2 new fish to add to the aquarium. There also were about 15 additional fish left over that I took home.

If 3 are good, 20 are better, right?

Wrong.

Every last fish turned up dead within a week of Halloween. The Hulabaloo fish even wiped out my handicapped one.

The dismal sight of the empty tank had the kids begging for a trip to Meijers, but I thought the tank needed a breather. Actually, I needed a breather from netting them out.

Tonight was the night, however, as they were on sale. Marked down from 19 to 17 cents.

Kayden picked his out and quickly lost interest. Bryce, however, would not let that fish bag out of his tight grip. Sloshing the fish around, I think they hit every last aisle display on the way to checkout.

As we headed out to the parking lot, I heard the familiar splat of goldfish hitting cold concrete.

I am sure my fish are secretly calling Bryce Darla tonight.

Let's take bets, shall we? I give them a week.

When Mom and Dad are away

2010-11-06T20:14:00.000-07:00

When Mom and Dad are away at Bible study, and Grandma and Grandpa come to babysit, this is what can happen:

Who would have thought? My kids don't usually "craft" with me, but they did an excellent job on these with my parents.

Now THIS is the kind of turkey I like- adorable and handmade:-)

I Hate Turkey

2010-11-04T10:21:00.001-07:00

UPDATE: I thought it would be fun to update with the finished tree. I loved this idea and plan to make it a yearly thing!

The calendar flips to November, and my countdown to Christmas starts.

In years past, I have sailed right through Thanksgiving without giving it proper prominence. The orange around the house starts to look dusty and I long for the warmth of Christmas decorations to fill each corner and cozy up our home.

As I was reflecting on why I brush off Thanksgiving, a realization dawned on me.

I hate turkey.

I don't like the flavor of it, nor it paired with stuffing, yams, rolls, etc.

Seeing that the day seems to center around that big bird, I have come to detest "the eating holiday". A small annoyance on the route to the bigger and better holiday celebrating Christ's birth.

In an effort to remember the spirit of Thanksgiving, and what it really stands for, we have put up a Thanksgiving Tree. My friend Kirsten had the great idea, and I love creating a leaf each night and placing it on the tree.

It's not pretty, but it's helping me remember the true meaning of Thanksgiving. So far, Kayden has put up "Grandma" as the thing he is most thankful for and Bryce's was Mommy.

For My Birthday

2010-11-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

The big talk around here this past month revolved around what Kayden wanted for his birthday.

Tonight, Kayden made a list of my birthday requests. I turn 29 +3 later this month. It just sounds younger, right?

The one and only thing on my list:

No fighting for one full day.

My other request for a new BMW convertible seems more likely.

Oy Vey.

2010-10-31T18:26:00.000-07:00

This summer, we took Kayden to the dentist for his third annual visit.

To my surprise, he had his first and only cavity.

I honestly thought there would be more (not that I wanted more:-).

The dental hygienist asked if he ate candy.

Is there such a thing as a mini-Buddy the Elf? I swear K would eat Snickers with spaghetti if I would let him.

Impulsively, I replied, "Oh noooooo. My kid never eats candy, he loves vegetables of all varieties."

Ok, not really. But I wanted to.

He comes by it naturally. I love chocolate, and my dad could eat Good N Plenty's by the bucket. My little brother has been known to eat an entire Oreo cookie package at one sitting.

When I caught Kayden climbing on the dog cage to reach a bag of candy on top of the fridge, I knew we had a problem.

I told him not to touch it, after all.

It was painful for him to watch me eat it as punishment.

Fortunately for him, the last few days has seen a flood of new candy. Trick or treating at papa's work, our church event, my parent's trunk or treat, and good ole trick or treating has filled up our pantry to overflowing.

Yes, there are eight full size candy bars in there.

Oy Vey.

I ended up separating it and putting five Ziploc bags aside.

How about you? Did it seem like your kids got a ton of candy this year?

Malibu Memory

2010-10-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

I met Ozzy Osbourne.

Did I ever tell you that?

Probably not, since his ranking on my "Celebrities I Met While Living in California" list was quite low.

It was before the Osbournes had that strange reality show with ten thousand barking dogs and Ozzy calling Shaaaaaron all the time.

I was hired to be a glorified extra for a show called L.A.B.B.. You guessed it, the Los Angeles Beach Bash....filmed in beautiful Malibu with an artificial sun affixed to the house, to be distributed in England.

Regardless of what anyone tells you, it gets cold in California. Sporting a bikini in 65 degree weather confirmed it. And that darn artificial sun did not throw off an ounce of heat.

Various celebrities came and went throughout the day. Green Day played a concert in which they sprayed water over their adoring female fans. I officially sub-title L.A.B.B. as the day I came to hate Green Day.

I touted my celebrity knowledge when the camera man filmed a segment on what we all thought of the Carmen Electra and Dave Navarro nuptials. They forgot to mention she would arrive behind me as I spurted "I can't believe she would marry such a weirdo."

Nice. That will get you hired again.

The final segment airing of the day came when Ozzy shuffled out, presumably to talk about his new show on MTV. I clearly remember thinking how he should be the poster child for staying away from drugs and alcohol.

Tonight as I was walking through Target, I accidentally bumped into Ozzy again, complete with eye liner and black polish.

Forever and a day ago, from that life to now.

Thank you, Ozzy-look-alike, for reminding me of that day in Malibu and how happy I am living the ordinary life.

Get Your Cotton Candy!

2010-10-18T18:36:00.000-07:00

I am about to say something profound, that you probably have never heard:

Josh hates to be touched.

Some guys are "huggers", some favor a strong handshake, perhaps even a hardy pat on the back. Josh likes none of the above.

So the fact that he has been checked three times for lice this week is hilarious. Envisioning two moms picking through his hairline as he hunches over in protest gives me a chuckle.

I bet you are scratching your head at this exact moment, huh?

5 fourth graders have come down with the creepy crawlers. I dare say it is an epidemic.

The annual tradition for Kayden's birthday is that we bring our cotton candy maker to the classroom, and each kid consumes as much sugary goodness as their stomach will allow.

Your welcome, parents.

At the forefront of my mind this week is if we should go all out and hope for lice in addition to the parasite we can't kick. Gotta go for broke, right?

In all seriousness, I might just go lunch lady style and don a plastic shower cap.

A Costume Suggestion

2010-10-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween.

Considering I hate the color orange, it really is surprising.

Plotting which costumes my kids are going to wear starts before the leaves change hue.

Giving birth to Kayden on October 21st only cemented my happiness when the calendar flips to fall.

In truth, I love it because it represents the start of the holidays. Living in California for the first part of our married life, I cherished being with family around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Halloween was the start. Once pumpkins started appearing, I knew I would be flying back to MI to see my family soon. Usually Twice.

Our church has a family themed costume contest at the Halloween Hullabaloo. Winner gets to chose a basket of goodies. Last year, the coveted Snuggie was among raffle prizes.

Any hopes for winning two years in a row were dashed when Kayden foiled my Family Flintstones theme, stating he would rather be a shark than Dino the dinosaur.

How about a Harlem Globetrotter? Nope.

A hot air balloon? Nope.

PacMan? Nope. Mom, I just want to be a shark this year.

Well, do you want to win or do you want to be a shark?

Kidding. I only mustered that internally.

Or maybe externally once.

Sunday, we headed out to Party City to purchase his Scooby Do birthday party invitations. As I was picking out the Number 6 candle, Kayden said excitedly, "I think you should wear this for Halloween!"

"See, Mom! It has a big pumpkin on it!" he said in condolence.

I am sure this is just the ticket for winning the church contest.

The question is, how will I walk in those heels?

Unexpected

2010-10-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

It all started Tuesday.

My little brother and his wife spent Monday night searching used car lots, looking for a good deal. They found a ton of Mini Vans, but Cash for Clunkers has effectively wiped out the used car market.

I had been driving Jan's Mini Van while they were out of town. The added space is undeniably nice. I remember taking Kayden and a friend to the children's museum, and how it took twenty minutes to strap his car seat between my two. Bryce has gotten so big, he cannot fit in between the front passenger seat and his car seat. In order to get him in, I have to fold him in half and carefully hoist between the two seats.

Since there was a plethora of minivans on the lot, my mom suggested selling my brother the Santa Fe and trading to a Mom Ride. Our biggest concern was price. After paying five years and finally receiving that pink title in the mail this summer, I did not want to add a monthly car payment.

Lot after lot was searched, only to find salesman more concerned with showing me the shopping cart hooks or kid viewing mirrors than discuss engine maintenance.

Finally, it was between 2. Josh took a peek at the Red Mom Ride (he did not like the body style of that one), and said NO immediately.

Can you tell we have a thing for the color gray?

my first ride

my "new" ride- a 2003 Chevy Venture

I have joined the clan. If you see me at school, give me the special two horn salute to welcome me to the group.

Oh, and cleaning five years worth of goldfish crackers and french fries out of my Santa Fe was no joke!

I Deserve This.

2010-10-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

I was sitting across a picnic table from her; my age was six or possibly seven.

I cannot remember the conversation.
I visualize the pop-up trailers in the background, and smell the smoke from a campfire.
Recalling her name or the exact location is pretty fuzzy.

Some details are as vivid as they were that day, though. Her hair was a beautiful brown, shoulder length. It was parted down the middle. I can still see the wind grab hold of it and how it danced across her face.

A joke was told, and the group gathered around the table erupted. She was laughing the longest and hardest of all. Scanning her face, I can still see the small lines around her eyes, the spray of freckles on her cheeks.

I stopped dead when I reached her mouth.

In all sincerity, I asked her "Do you know you have a big gap in your two front teeth?"

Tact. Rather, my lack of it.

I can give you a hundred examples, the same as the first.

The time I informed the lady at McDonalds she had a giant mole on her chin. Speech Day in grade school, where I foolishly told a friend that she was the only one receiving a white ribbon. As of this day, I am not sure I have been forgiven for that one.

You see, my mom could not get me to keep my mouth shut. In all sincerity, I wasn't doing it to be mean. That might seem hard to believe, but I legitimately thought they did not know.

Today, we decided to visit Klackles Orchard.

Among other activities, you can ride in a wonderful Enchanted Pumpkin Cart that is pulled behind a tractor. Guiding you past the sprawling pumpkin patch, and into the middle of the apple orchard where you can pick a peck to bring home for apple crisp.

Upon getting back into the cart, the tractor driver peeked into our Pumpkin Carriage and gave the final instruction that we would need to latch the gate before we took off.

As he was turning to walk away, Kayden said "Mom, that guy with the red shirt has really yellow teeth."

Would it be tacky for me to wish he had a hearing problem as well?

My mom, sitting across from me, had a difficult time composing herself. I knew what she was thinking: I deserve this.

A few pictures from today:

Priceless.

2010-10-04T15:20:00.000-07:00

Josh is on a road trip, purchasing something that I can honestly not put a price on.

He has to go two separate places to fulfill the order.

It is a specialized thing, you see.

I searched in earnest all afternoon online, just in case there were any Internet companies that had it available for purchase.

I feel awful I waited so long to act on it.

My son certainly shouldn't have had to endure a month without it.

Parasite Medicine.

Giardia has hit the Bird family full force this past month. On top of all the back to school activities and busyness this time of year brings, we have had a never ending stream of bathroom breaks.

Kayden started with it the first full day of school, and it just kept rolling through Bryce then Josh and now me.

It has been so long since we have been normal, I honestly don't remember a time when Bryce didn't need to be changed 7 or 10 times a day.

Josh had it this past weekend, and lasted for two days.

I am sitting at a week and a half, but mine is getting worse by the day.

I am so thankful, almost giddy to be honest, that my husband is rounding up the Flagyl so we can be on our merry way to recovery.

In the meantime, I am seriously reconsidering this post. I might just have to go back to my original sentiment that camping deserves to be loathed. Even in the most beautiful motor home ever created.

After tonight's purchases, we have officially spent more on Flagyl than we did an entire weekend camping.

But honestly, I am just so happy relief is coming! And soon! Yipppee!

Soundtrack

2010-09-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

So many moments of my life center around music. Each time I hear the song it transports me back to the significant memory surrounding it, and I am right back in the middle of that moment again.

End of the Road by Boys II Men, circa 1994, instantly transports me back to my sophomore year in high school. I am in the school cafeteria with a fog machine sweeping the floor with gray smoke. One lone spotlight illuminates the room. I am slow dancing, the first time I have ever danced with a boy. Feeling grown up and insecure at the same time, every time I hear End of the Road I flash back to that night and can still feel the butterflies dancing in my stomach as I twirl around the floor.

FootLoose- I am in junior high. I just switched from Christian to public school, and I long for a place to fit in. Reasoning the dance team might be a good fit, I conjure up the nerve to ask Melody if she will try out with me. We buy cheap dollar store poms and come up with a routine to FootLoose. My dance skills were awful. I did not make the team, but I did make a new friend.

Grease Lightening I am 16, driving up to my cottage with three friends. I feel the warm breeze slapping my hair against my face as Grease Lightening plays over the radio. We are doing the motions out the window with our arms. We smoke cigarettes until my parents pull up behind us. I remember tipping my head back and laughing so freely. Not a care in the world.

Freshman by the Verve Pipe. It is ironically my freshman year in college. I just pledged AOII. Our brother fraternity was having a 70s party to celebrate new members, and probably to meet their new sister pledges. The bottom floor of their frat house was void of furniture. This particular night was wall to wall college students, talking and chatting and screaming and shaking. Freshman blared over the speakers, everyone in the room joined a huge circle to sing at the top of our lungs.

Andrea Boccelli and Sarah Brightman, Time to Say Goodbye. Josh and I celebrate Valentines Day in Vegas with a large group of people. The Bellagio fountains sync to my heart at the very moment they dance on beat to Mr. Boccelli. If you have never heard this song, it is haunting and beautiful. I board the plane with large black sunglasses on. I am flying Southwest. Late to board, I am stuck in the front row facing another passenger. I listen to my CD player, on repeat of this song, and cry the whole way home. The man across pretends not to notice, and I am thankful. It would be almost a full year before Josh and I were living in the same spot. Later, it would be the same song I listened on repeat when I missed my mom. That first year in Redlands was horribly difficult without my family.

I Will Be Here, Steven Curtis Chapman. My dress is large, my train is long, and everything sparkles. I watch my brothers walk to the front of the church. I stand in the back foyer searching for my dad. I see the tears in his eyes as he walks towards me. 200 of our closest friends are waiting for me to turn the corner and walk towards my groom. A waive of nervousness falls over me and I tell my dad that I need to run to the bathroom because I am going to be sick. He whispers, "We don't have time, honey. Take a deep breath", grabs my arm, and leads me down the aisle to the love of my life. The person who understands me and I love with all that I am. I have no clue what is ahead of us; I just know that I am walking toward the man I dreamt of since I was 7. Somebody by Depeche Mode is suddenly playing as I dance with him as his wife.

Hallelujah by Handel. Josh is part of a 6 person Barbershop Quartet (I know, 6 people in a quartet? What can I say, I did not pick the name) the Christmas after I had Kayden. We are in a historical chapel on the University of Redlands campus, and there is a shiny black grand piano playing for the singers (Also not a barbershop, right? I digress).
Only 2 months old, Kayden is dressed in a red and green plaid sweater vest with a matching pageboy cap. I look down at his perfectly formed face, ten tiny fingers, sweet little ears. I could not have imagined this love. He makes these wonderful grunting sounds in my ear as I stand and watch Josh sing praises to our Savior. I am reminded of how much God loves me, that he would willingly give up His son. The ultimate sacrifice, the definition of love.

Apple Bottom Jeans, Single Ladies, Cecilia, Come on Eileen- I pull them up on You Tube. Both kids high tail it from wherever they are. Little boys dancing their tushes off. Swinging each other around, running and jumping on the couch, forgetting they hated each other two minutes ago. They dance like their mother, and will also never make a dance team. Thank God.

The song that represents the past year is I am Waiting by John Waller (from the Fireproof movie). The lyrics that most speak to me: "I am waiting, waiting on you Lord. And I am hopeful. Though it's not easy, faithfully I will wait. Though it is painful....patiently, I will wait." It is no secret to those that know us that this has been a difficult and emotional year. This song has been a stronghold and almost a mantra to me that I will serve You while I am waiting.

So what about you. What is on your soundtrack?

Special thanks to Cheryl from Mommypants for giving me the framework and idea for this post. I love her blog, so check it out!

A Good Sport

2010-09-10T18:22:00.000-07:00

The garden hose hung off the side as we approached, dripping water to the pavement below. Any dreams of balmy water filling the dunk tank was wishful thinking on Josh's part.

For the memory books, the temperature tonight was 65 degrees.

Still, he was a good sport and the dunk tank raised a lot of money for the school. $3 would buy you three throws, $5 an automatic button push. The line to dunk teachers, principals, and coaches was always at least ten deep. Wildly successful, said the board member taking the money.

Walking the plank to towards the dunk tank.

Getting ready for the first official dunk.

by his firstborn son, who took great pleasure in dunking his dad.

So much so, that he got in line to do it again!

Taping the seat back together after it split right in half

_________________________________________

This is what I love so much about my husband. He loathes being the center of attention, but gladly hopped in to help out.

Although I must admit, I think he was starting to enjoy heckling the throwers.

Kid Love, 2

2010-09-04T19:56:00.001-07:00

Josh had to go downtown for grad class; I was bored and decided to tag along.

After dropping him off at GVSU, I pushed the double stroller a mile uphill to the Children's Museum...only to find it was closed.

Much whining and grumbling ensued. The kids weren't all that happy, either.

Peeking in every last window didn't achieve the magical result of a door popping open, so we moved along. The window cleaner was thankful.

My brilliant plan was hatched to take a few pictures of the boys, seeing how much they love each other and all.

Can't you tell?

Kid Love:

2010-08-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

Kid Love: when you are so excited to see your dad, that you take off at full speed when you see him come around the corner.

Goodbye Summer

2010-08-31T05:40:00.000-07:00

So long, Summer 2010.

It's been fun.

Here are my top five favorite things about Kayden going back to school:

1. Bryce and him won't fight as much. I am tempted to list this as all five, since I am SO sick of them fighting. For some reason, they have to be right on top of each other. God forbid one of them goes to another part of the house.

2. The Target Social. One stroll through Target yesterday revealed what all the moms do while kids are in preschool/kindergarten. It was fun catching up with a bunch of people I have not seen in a while.

3. Fall weather. Don't get me wrong, I love the heat of summer. However, I am looking forward to football games, pumpkin patches, and playing outside without needing shade and gatorade.

Fall would be my absolute favorite time of the year if it didn't lead directly into winter. The temperature is perfect!

4. Kayden learning fresh and new information every day. My favorite part of a school day is during the car ride home, asking him about his school day. I love hearing how the day went from his perspective. 5 years old=brutal honesty.

5. Spending some one on one with Bryce. Getting to do all the things with him that I did with Kayden before he was born. I cherish the quiet and alone time we have, just the two of us.

Because Josh is home all summer, it is always a bittersweet time when school rolls around. It has been a great summer, and I am sad to see it go!

Loving Life

2010-08-26T19:19:00.000-07:00

Camping, Revisited

2010-08-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

After last year's camping trip, Josh and I vowed to never camp again.

Ever.

As we shared our experience (the non-stop rain, 50 degree temperatures, and a son on the verge of anemia and wanting to be held all.the.time), more and more people explained that had the weather been beautiful, our entire trip would be a different experience entirely.

Last year, a friend graciously offered her pop-up after the trailer we had booked fell through. This year, the Hulst family offered their motorhome. Let me tell you- if there ever is a way to camp, this is it:

A nice size bathroom, three TVs, Queen and King size bed, enough room to lounge around....a hotel room on wheels.

Wednesday, we loaded our goods and headed to Gun Lake.

The weather was beautiful. My kids learned they loved fishing. We had a chance to take a few great bike rides. The s'mores were delicious. The company was delightful. All in all, we had a great time.

I can't say Josh and I have changed our mind about buying a trailer (it's probably never going to happen), but we did have a great time with friends.

LOVED fishing

Josh and Dan cooking supper.

The whole gang-Jelsemas, Van Dams, Dieleman's, and Birds.

Nice, shallow water.

My kid the filthiest I have ever seen him.

I am a People Watcher

2010-08-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

People fascinate me.

I love seeing the various outfits people put together, or how they interact with each other. Sometimes at a theme park, I like to just plop down on a bench and watch people stroll by. It's weird, I know.

The Applebee's I worked at in Redlands shared the parking lot with Walmart. Often, when I was finished with my shift, I would head over to pick up some toiletry we were in need of, and in the process I would people watch.

I stumbled across this site which brings me back to the good old days of people watching at Walmart.

A few of my favorites:

There really is no place to go but up from playing a gig at Walmart, right?

I wonder how long it took her to grow her hair this long?

The sign obviously did not mean No Soliciting Dogs, right?

In all seriousness, my brother actually owned this Sylvester hat growing up. And I wanted one. No lie.

You gotta really love Michael Jackson to get this tattoo.

and my personal favorite. No shorts, no sarong....just a bathing suit as her attire for shopping in Walmart.

What a weekend!

2010-08-08T10:16:00.001-07:00

Amber and Justin's wedding was this past Friday. There are already ten million pictures on facebook, so I won't rehash them here:-) Just a few to recap the details...

They got married at Princeton Church. I would describe it as quaint. A large crystal chandelier hangs above the center aisle, with stained glass windows surrounding the sanctuary. Wooden beams give it the appearance of a much older church. Absolutely stunning.

Rehearsal was Thursday, and I started feeling like I was coming down with the flu. I took a bunch of medicine and went to bed around 10pm to try and ward off illness. Friday morning, the full-fledged flu hit. It was so unfortunate to wake up the morning of my brother's wedding and feel so sick.

Thankfully, around 2pm, I started feeling better. Praise God! Who would have wanted to miss this special day?

These are two of my favorite pictures of Amber and Justin.

Amber and I had talked about it before, "Whatever happens with the kids, happens." You never know how kids are going to do, and there is no pushing a two year-old down the aisle if he does not want to go.

There is one thing Brycer loves more than life itself, and that is his pacifier. Lately, he only gets it at bedtime.

I admit, I bribed him. He stood at the end of the aisle looking at me, and I dangled that pacifier. I have never seen that kid come so quick. A huge smile on his face, he was grabbing for the pacifier before he even got to the end of the pews.

My in-laws were such a huge help. Not only did they do all the flowers (for free), they also did the music AND watched my kids. The flowers were gorgeous, and they went so far beyond what I could have imagined. So perfect.

I realized, all over again, how much I love Josh. From supporting me through my illness and caring for me all day, to taking the kids countless times (without complaining) over the past year while helping Amber plan this, I know Josh is the best there is.

I think back on my own wedding day, and realize it was the day I loved him the least. I am so glad our love has grown over the past ten years, and can say I love him so much more now than on our own wedding day.

One of the best surprises of the day is Justin's wedding ring. When my Grandpa Vander Ploeg died, he left this ring to my dad. My dad then left it to Nathan.

Anyone that knows our family knows how special my Grandpa is to all of us. It was a touching and tender moment when Amber put the ring on Justin and he realized it was my Grandpa's ring--I am so glad I had a front row seat to see his reaction. What a sacrifice, Nate, to give up such a special memento to make your brother happy.

Supportive and selfless. That is how I would describe these two. We are blessed to have parents that love us more than themselves. What a great example of love we have to look at. Not only do they love us kids, they love each other still after 34 years.

They paid for all of our attire, the bachelor party, food, shoes for the kids, my hair and make-up, donuts, suspenders, plane tickets, the list seriously goes on and on....my mom and dad saved us a ton of money because they cared so much about it not being a burden for us financially. They went above and beyond to make this wedding day special for Amber and Justin and also our family.

To have the example of selfless love, set by my parents, is a gift in itself.

My other brother, Nate, rented this sweet limo. We did not know how long we would have in it, depending on time. We rode through downtown GR, and it was a blast having a few minutes alone with the bride and groom (and bridal party) before the reception. Kayden and Bryce loved the ride.

During the reception, I was asked to give a speech, so I will share those sentiments here as well. I am thrilled that my brother has found someone that I can call my sister. I love Amber and am so glad she is a part of the VanderPloeg family!

Make Way For

2010-07-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

Ducklings.

There is a pond, not so far away, in which we take bread to feed Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack.

In case you have no idea what I am talking about, Kayden's favorite bedtime story is Make Way For Ducklings, a book about mallard ducks and their journey to making a home in the Boston Public Garden.

My hunch is that Kayden chooses that book nightly because it is SO long.

This afternoon was overcast, so we decided to visit "our ducklings".

Whose ready to feed the ducks?

His favorite thing is throwing the bread as far as he can, and watching all the ducks chase after it.

Reminds me of t-ball, come to think of it.

Bryce's favorite is trying to throw it direct into a duck's mouth.

OR throwing 10 pieces in the air, and watching all the ducklings scramble.

Mom's favorite are the two ducks with broken beaks. I pay special attention to them, and make sure they get extra bread.

Half Way?

2010-07-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

Summer is rolling by.

My list of half written, abandoned blog posts serve as proof that I cannot complete a coherent thought these days.

Someday I will finish those posts, but in the meantime I wanted to catch up on a few things happening around here.

The pipe still makes it's way out of retirement when tired. We are working hard to break this habit, but OH, it is a tough one!

My brother played in the state's largest softball tournament last weekend. Kayden was invited to shag balls during the home run contest.

He thought he was pretty big stuff out there.

After about five of the thirty-three hitters, he decided that was enough running.

In all fairness, it was SO HOT out!

After the tournament, we went to the hotel where the team was staying. Bryce was pretty over it at this point:-)

Twinners

Another new development this summer is t-ball for Kayden. There are three things I love about this 'learning stage' of organized sports:

1) Upon being hit, the ENTIRE team goes after the ball. It can roll into the outfield, and the entire field clears to chase after the ball.

2) When base runners hop off the base to chase after the ball.

3) Watching the kids run the bases. Sometimes they run straight from first to third, sometimes they never even make it home. One boy last night was on first, and then all the sudden he was in the bathroom.

It has been great fun watching Kayden trying his hand at this sport. So far, he has loved it.

For one little kid, he has quite the fan section:-)

See Dale

2010-06-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

See Dale cross creek

See Dale walk up banks

See Dale walk down tree log

See Dale tease, and joke that he is falling off log

Funny, Dale.

See Dale walk down the rest of the log

See Dale check out stability of last log

See Dale fall.

Well worth lugging my camera 15 miles.

Even in Gatlinburg...

2010-06-27T19:50:00.001-07:00

there isn't a vacation from fighting.

We arrived three days ago, to the warmest weather I have been in a while. 90-95 degrees during the day is the norm. The pool has been our constant companion.

Things I have already learned in TN:

Dentist visits are not mandatory. Lots of missing teeth in these parts.
A ginormous confederate flag tattoo is pretty popular, as evidenced by the bareback men walking down the street.
It is possible for me to take a week off. Most vacations I take are "working vacations", and this week I have really tried to stay away from e-mail. It has been nice!
Bedtime for the Van Clan is 10 pm- crazy, huh?
There is so much to do here. If you have never been to Gatlinburg, I would highly recommend it. We have mined for gems, riden go-carts on three story tracks, taken the trolley around town, slid down the side of the mountain on the dry luge.
We have planned: Ripley's aquarium, more mini-golf, horseback riding, black bear viewing, hiking, and a few dinner- shows.
Josh and my dad have a great relationship, and I cherish that.

All in all, we are having a great time!

We love Herman Miller

2010-06-23T18:35:00.001-07:00

Why? Because they give my dad a job.

Also, the Herman Miller Picnic.

Having fun racing cars

Amber taking Bryce through the bounce mazes.

Taking in all the activity

I love this one- they look so little!

In the fire truck

Verdict? Neither of them like snakes.

But they both love horses. This was far and away Brycer's favorite.

Thanks for taking us to the picnic!

Now it is time for a nap:-)

What better day than today

2010-06-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

The big summer project entailed cleaning out our storage/crawl space, and try to purge a few things. Boxes kept piling up over the school year, and the unorganization was fully realized when I could not find Kayden's hand-me-down 2T clothing.

Each weekend would pass with the thought of looking for that box, 'til finally school was out and it was put on the 2010 Summer To Do list.

However, 15 gallons of water in our crawl space made today the day.

We lugged out all of the boxes, and I had every intent of just searching for size 2-3T and putting the rest of them back.

I don't know what it is, but I love looking through old clothing. I sit and cherish the teeny tiny shoes and unfold the newborn blankets. Each outfit brings a picture to mind of what was happening when they were wearing it.

The blue velvet outfit Kayden wore when he first met Grandma and Grandpa Birdy.

The striped outfit from Katie that Bryce wore on Mother's Day.

What Kayden wore when my dad first met him at Ontario airport.

The initial set of matching outfits.....Kayden's first Christmas sweater....their first swimsuit with matching coverup....the list goes on and on.

My absolute favorite box is the newborn box.

Specifically these:

Coming home outfits.

Short, short lived stage. Oh, how I miss it.

Keys, God, and a non-coincidence

2010-06-10T20:26:00.001-07:00

I learned a lesson three years ago in Florida, and received a reminder tonight.

This last week has been really hard. A few expensive items have decided it's quittin time all at once. The pool pump was the first to go, followed by the refrigerator. Yesterday, I went to go meet Josh and my car wouldn't start.

My mom graciously offered up her Mini-Van, so this afternoon was spent picking it up. As I pulled in the driveway, Josh was frantically looking through his truck. The seats were both folded over and contents from the back seat were strewn about the driveway. Noticing I had arrived, he started towards me with a scowl on his face. His truck key had slipped off his key chain. He had looked everywhere.

Have I mentioned we only have ONE set of keys for each of our cars? I know, I know; not smart.

Ten minutes were spent searching, and then we had to get to t-ball practice. Consoling him that we would find it right when we got home, we reluctantly loaded into Jan's Van.

That didn't exactly happen.

Over an hour we again searched. He had only been in three places- the garage, the front lawn, and his truck- so it couldn't have gone far. As the minutes ticked by, though, I felt more and more hopeless that we would ever find that darn key.

Finally, as I sat in the garage, I said a prayer. "Lord, I know you know right where this key is. If it is your will that we find it, please show me where it is."

Crawling on my hands and knees on the front lawn, my eye caught the shining silver of the key head. Somehow the key shaft had spiked right into the ground and only the very top bow was showing.

I read somewhere a long time ago that every answered prayer can be contributed to a mere coincidence, if desired. I know that there was no coincidence in me finding that key tonight.

I am not sure why God is choosing to reaffirm answered prayers through impossible key hunts, but I am in awe of God's goodness. Not just because He answered my prayer tonight, but all the time. How incredibly blessed I am to have the life I have. To serve a God that listens and cares about something so trivial as finding a key.

Oh, and the best part of Kayden's day?

Watching my car being towed away. Go figure.

All that is needed

2010-06-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

is daddy in his matching shoes.

How? How, How, How?

2010-06-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

How did this happen? Wasn't this picture taken just yesterday?

And where did the years go in between?

with his buddy, Ethan

class photo

praying before we ate

THIS. This right here. The fact that he still loves to wave to mom. When does that slip away? When is mom not so cool anymore? My heart hurts just thinking about it.

I love my boy.

When the Thunder Rolls...

2010-06-06T18:11:00.000-07:00

I am not sure I have ever had a weekend like this.

Amber's bridal party shower was planned first for Friday, and then we planned my in-laws 40th wedding anniversary party for Saturday. We generally clean every weekend. However, I only get out the rubber gloves and deep clean if company is coming. You know: wipe down every cupboard, get the spaghetti off the microwave ceiling, clean the dust off the heater grates.

Might as well do both parties when it is sparkling clean, right?

Thursday was to be my cleaning day, but unfortunately started with a trip to the ER. I was getting breakfast for the boys when Kayden accidentally slammed Brycer's hand in the slider door.

This is from today- it is still really swollen, but looks better!

Anyway, in the midst of all this planning, Josh signed up for Master's classes. Between other wedding events and our trip to Tennessee later this summer, the only class that worked was this weekend- Friday night and Saturday day.

As I was trying to prepare food on Friday night, the kids were tornados. Perhaps it was from excitement, maybe it was the cupcakes tempting them on the counter. They would not settle down. I called Grandpa 911 and my dad came to take them so my mom and I could finish preparations. Bryce got a half block away and would not stop crying... so back he came.

Pouring down rain moved both events indoors.

Adding to this weekend was the Pregnancy and Newborn June Issue mentioning the tie onesies. I am so thankful for it, but it has possibly been my busiest weekend ever with work (minus the good ole Target days:-)

They were very fun parties, and I am thrilled that I had a full weekend visiting friends and family. With a refrigerator full of desserts and still-clean house (hallelujah!), we are all ready for school to be finished and daddy-o home full-time!

The Straw

2010-05-26T15:28:00.001-07:00

I did okay during the last field trip.

The final letter arrived in the backpack without a second glance.

His last visit with Lansing passed by, almost unnoticed.

'Nare a hesistation during the final drop off this morning.

and then Kayden shoved this in my hands during pickup.

A picture of him with his two teachers. A happy, innocent, precocious preschooler.

It will never be the same, and this picture was the straw that broke the camel's back.

I see myself years from now, longing for these simple times. Holding this picture and remembering my goofy little boy, so happy with his two teachers.

I am sad.

Not ready for him to grow up, and kindergarden feels so, well, grown up!

31 turning 42

2010-05-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

"Mrs. Bird, Mrs. Bird! I found someone in my book that looks exactly like you!" one of the fourth graders proclaimed excitedly when I walked into the room today.

Fourth graders don't always have the most tact, so I wondered how bad this picture was going to be. They pretty much speak what is on their mind, without the foggiest idea that it might be offensive. It is actually one of the things I love most about this age- you know what you get.

I remember one of the first years I was married to Josh, and my grandpa passed away. Each student worked hard to create a special card to cheer my grandma. Along with a tombstone and RIP on every.last.card, we oscillated between crying and laughing when reading them.

One card said "I am sorry your husband died. Now it's time to get over it. "

Another said "So, you have been married 50 years. Wow, he must have really loved you."

Hoping the picture wasn't Phyllis Dillard or Betty White, I sceptically waited as they flipped through their book to find the page where the "look-alike Mrs. Bird was".

Wanna know who it was???

A 42 year old JK Rowling.

I guess I won't take it too personal. Seeing that on my birthday, most of them guessed I was turning 60.

I Miss Vacation

2010-05-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

The warm sand on my feet

Seeing my brother Nate

Grandma and Grandpa spoiling the kids (well, that still happens here)

Playing baseball on the beach

Walking in the waves

Sorting through sea shells

Shopping with my mom

Teasing my dad about how many naps he takes on vacation

The warm weather! Feeling the sun on my shoulders and playing outside with the kids in shorts and t-shirts...I just love it.

HOWEVER.

Vacation is not the same without Josh. My parents got a condo at the end of June in TN, and we all get to go. So excited.

Happy Birthday Uncle Nate!

2010-05-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings from MYR

2010-05-05T05:14:00.000-07:00

I was incredibly nervous to fly with the boys.

I have had one too many (okay, two too many) flights in which I was ill.

I flew for years back and forth from California and never got nervous, but I was all shook up Monday morning in anticipation. Not having my mom with me, I just wondered what I would do if I got sick. Bryce would never sit in his seat alone.

We got through checkout and onto the plane just fine.

Kayden was situated by the window, I was in the middle, and Brycer aisle seat. Bryce was a tad frightened, so immediately he decided to sit on my lap.

The overhead compartments were full, so an older lady stepped into Bryce's {empty} seat to see if there was room in our compartment. She happened to have a ginormous Meijers bag full of goods, which kept hitting me in the head without her realizing it.

I don't normally get claustrophobic, but with the big bag in my face, Bryce on my lap, and Kayden jumping all over me, all the sudden I couldn't breathe. I could feel my chest tightening, and the dread of being ill with nowhere to go.

I started praying. I closed my eyes and forced myself to calm down, and both the nausea and lightheaded feelings cleared. Thank God!

The rest of the flight was great- the boys did awesome. I even got a short nap from Bryce. I was so thankful when the wheels touched down. Relief. We had made it.

It is nice not having anything on the schedule. We have been shopping a few times, to the pool quite a bit, and today looks like a good beach day.

The only thing missing is Josh. I really wish he was here, too!:-)

PS

2010-05-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Oh, and for age 2, this kid has some mad hops:-)

Very Hard Work

2010-05-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

I try really hard not to work when I am at home with my kids. For one thing, I am interrupted so much it is hardly worth it to even start.

Every so often, though, I have to sew something in the middle of the day for an afternoon mailing. Because Bryce wants to sit on my lap and play with thread and machine knobs, I often save it for when he takes a nap.

Kayden has a basketball hoop downstairs next to my sewing space, and loves to shoot baskets while I sew. Ever few points, he will peek his head around the door frame.

"Mom, why are you sewing?", he asks.

"So that I can buy you more cars." I answered that way once on a whim a year ago, and now we have to repeat it every.time.

"Are you working hard?", he responds.

"Yup, really hard, bud", I reply.

-------------------------------------

Friday was bike day. All of the little preschoolers take their bikes to school and ride them around the parking lot. There are a variety of different stations they can go to for a bike wash, or to decorate their bike.

As I arrived to pick him up and as he climbed into his car seat, sighed and said, "Mom, I worked so hard today riding my bike. You would be really proud of how hard I worked."

Oh, to be five and have the "work" of riding your bike.

More Hard Work, Grandparents Day:

with Grandpa and Grandma Birdy

With Grandma Van

Singing to God.

Ho-Ho-Ho-Hosanna

getting lower....

and let's not forget the hard work of playing outside on the playground.

Brotherly Love

2010-04-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

Delusional.

That is pretty much how I would describe my vision of having two boys.

I thought there would be lots of playing ball and trains together, peppered by occasional fighting.

It's not really like that. I am not sure if it is the age difference or what, but they fight....a lot. They fight over toys, cars, balls, who is first, who is last, who gets buckled in the car seat first, who is last getting out of the car. You name it, they compete over it.

If they are in the same room for a period of time, guaranteed there will be bickering.

I have gotten used to it. Accepted it. Realized my vision was not at all reality.

Then tonight, it was as if a cloud lifted and they actually spent a considerable time playing together. Throwing the ball to one another, taking turns jumping on me, dancing with each other....it was glorious and just as I imagined it would be.

Kayden even pulled Bryce into his lap and told me to go grab my camera.

and I happily obliged.

Top 5 Spring Break Highlights

2010-04-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

In NO particular order:

5. Bryce had a Doctor's appointment--he grew over three inches in the last five months.

Height: 36.5 inches, 95%

Weight: 29 lbs 7 ounces, 50-75%

He is still almost a full year behind his brother. Kayden was this size around ONE year:-)

A picture of my favorite dimple. I love dimples!

4. Kayden learned to ride a bike without training wheels.

Last year, we knew he was ready. However, it was the end of the season, so Josh and I both agreed that we would take them off as soon as it got warm this year.

In preparation, my mom bought this little handle that attaches to the back of the bike so that you can run behind it effortlessly.

Josh was taking it out of the package, and I told Kayden to hop on his bike and we would practice a little bit until Daddy came out and would run behind him up and down the road.

I pushed him two steps, and he took off down the hill on our driveway.

I ran after him, panicked, until I realized he was completely steady on his bike. Not one wobble; not one waiver. He took off down the road, circled around, then came back up our driveway.

I stood there dumbfounded.

You were right, mom:-) I should have taken them off a long time ago!

3. Our first trip to the ER with Kayden (I did not say all of them were good memories!)

We were unloading wood from Josh's pickup when I heard him crying,

And not that whiny, 'I got a little scrape' cry.

The one where you just know trouble has arrived.

I looked and he had blood dripping down his face and spilling onto his clothes, shorts, anything in his path.

I yelled for Josh and we headed straight to the ER. By the time we got there and into our room, the bleeding had stopped.

He only needed it taped together, but it was traumatic for him.

I couldn't believe it was his first ER trip after we have taken Bryce so many times!

2. Brycer turned TWO!

I cannot believe my little guy is now a big guy. There isn't any "baby" left to him anymore!

He is talking wholeheartedly, and today even sang me the Happy Birthday song. He is funny and bright, and full of laughs...and completely two years old. Into everything and full of attitude!

Chuck E Cheese- we were worried because it was Spring Break, but it wasn't that busy!

Bryce LOVES Chuck E Cheese.

At our house before the party.

Opening presents with Uncle Justin's help.

His present from Gma and Papa Van- a new train...

...which Kayden got a huge kick out of.

1. Great Wolf Lodge

Gma and Papa Birdy took us to Great Wolf, along with Josh's sister and her family. It was wonderful to spend some time together and relax in the water park.

The kids loved all the water slides and activities.

With his cousin

all the grandkids with gma and papa. So much FUN!

All in all, what a wonderful spring break we had. It makes me excited for summer, where Josh and I get to spend every day together with the kids.

Hope you had a good one, too!

The Milky Way

2010-04-08T21:14:00.000-07:00

Kayden drew me a beautiful picture of the Milky Way, detailed with blacks and greens and LOTS of random scribbling.

The treasured picture was brought to Grandma's house, it made rounds to the teachers.

"Mom, I need to make sure Jesus sees this," Kayden said.

I adore the wonder and imagination of a five year old.

Arrived

2010-04-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

Pool Supplies.

Summer can now officially start.

I {heart} Spring

2010-03-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

Isn't that just spectacular?

The kids can play outside again,

some even in shorts!

Happiness is all around,

including the cats, er dogs.

I {heart} Spring!

Deliciously Funny

2010-03-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

I am about to drop a bomb.

Permission was granted to share this information on my blog, but I have debated. Wondered if opinions of him would change, arguments would be started...perhaps even mockery for his choice.

Josh voted for Obama.

Shocking, I know.

If you have been around this blog long, you would know that my mom has profound hearing loss in both ears.

I remember when Josh and I were dating, and all gathered around the table as a family, that Josh would comment on how loud everyone was. It was so normal to me; I never even realized that any of us were talking all that boisterous. Once Josh got to know my family a little bit more, he came to know the reality that we literally scream in order to get my mom's attention. He began teasing "Shhhhhhh. No screaming unless there is a fire", a lesson his mom taught him as a child.

Funny how those little differences in family dynamic present themselves, huh?

In the past few years, my mom has had the help of the best ear surgeon in GR. He is the only specialist in this area trained to do cochlear implants and some of the more complicated ear procedures. One of the biggest questions we have always had was, Will my mom eventually not be able to hear at all?

Dr. Daniels promised that he would never allow her to become deaf, as long as he was practicing medicine. We all took a huge sigh of relief. If not just for the yelling and hollering, also because it would mean Jan would not miss out on moments like this:

**I am saying "Scooby Dooby Doo" and Bryce is saying "Where are you?"***

My mom can actually read his lips, but it really wouldn't be the same as hearing that sweet baby voice.

***insert looming political music***

Recently, Dr. Daniels said that ObamaCare will effectively put him out of practicing medicine. I joke about being political, but it is a very real fear that she will lose her ability to hear in the next few years without continued medical help. ObamaCare does not deem hearing (at my mom's age) worth medical intervention, so my hope is that she can get anything and everything she needs done in the next few years before Dr. Daniels stops practicing medicine.

After that, it will all be out of pocket if we can find a specialist. Seeing that the bill for this last mini-cochlear was pretty hefty, we all are afraid of what this means for the future of her hearing.

In the mix of all this, I have taken to teasing Josh about his choice of president.

Then today I found out that, out of all the things in the world ObamaCare could impose a tax on, this healthcare reform imposes a 10% additional tax on tanning salons.

And I just find that deliciously funny.

What would happen

2010-03-13T22:41:00.000-08:00

if Brycer dressed himself?

He wore those shades all day on his head like that.

Nice, Robert Verdi.

Deep thoughts for a Tuesday Evening

2010-03-09T19:09:00.000-08:00

There are a few blogs that I frequent, and one of the comments struck me.

I have chewed on it for a good part of the day, and just wanted to get some thoughts.

From a woman with a chronically ill child:

"I love God. I love Jesus. But I am not a supporter of organized religion because it is all screwed up. Be a supporter of Jesus and have a relationship with God, but take the church with a grain of salt. And don't rely on them when the chips are down in your life because 9 times out of 10, they aren't going to be "there" for you. That's what I have learned."

Many people afterward echoed the sentiment.

I certainly know of people that have felt this way in the past. The "big wigs" (ie. pastors, long standing members, people who generously tithe) get support in the form of meals, cards, and phone calls, but most members fall by the wayside.

Is this an area where most church's are lacking?

Have we become so focused on how "busy" we are that we become blind to the needs of our people? Is is one of the reasons people are leaving the church?

I know. Heavy blog post for a Tuesday night, but it has been on my mind all day.

Wonder Hanger

2010-02-28T18:49:00.001-08:00

The Wonder Hanger Commercial comes on, detailing how it will triple my closet space and lead to all sorts of wonderful organizational joys. All for the low, low price of $9.95. If I hurry, and act quick, they will double my order.

K: Hey, Mom and Dad, look at the hanger!

Josh: Yeah, K, we don't need that.

K: But it is only $9.99

Josh: But we don't need it

K: But I do!

Josh: Do you want it for your birthday?

K: YES!

Me: Instead of a Car or Train?

K: Well, No.

K, after thinking a minute: I guess you could just buy me both?

What kid wants a set of Wonder Hangers for their birthday? He MUST possess his father's affinity for gimmick products.

Playtime

2010-02-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa must REALLY love these kids to squeeze into the tiny playhouse.

Poor Melo

Poor Cali

Poor Mom to have to pick up all the toys.

Poor Melo and Cali.

Wanna guess the word they were saying {over and over} that made them smile?

Kisses for Melo.

You have to be 100

2010-02-24T17:21:00.000-08:00

"You have to be 100 before you get to go to Heaven", I always tell Kayden.

In retrospect, it probably is not the best answer. It was late at night when we were talking about it, and he asked how old you have to be. 100 seemed like a good round figure.

The other day we were driving and Kayden was asking me all sorts of questions about dying. Why Tia was only 8 when she went to heaven, what happened to my grandparents, how old were they when they went to heaven.

K: Mom, but what will happen when you are 100?
Me: Well, then I will be in heaven with Jesus.

I heard slight sniffling and I could tell he was processing this.

K: But then I will be here and you will be in heaven and then I won't have a mom anymore.
Me: Kayden, I know it does not make sense to you. Just don't worry about it now. You have along time before I turn 100. When you are an adult, this will all make more sense.
K: But what about Grandma?
Me: What about Grandma, honey?
K, crying even harder: Well, she is almost 100!

I really do {heart} NY.

2010-02-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to visit New York City, and she did not disappoint.

I love the feeling of walking through Times Square with thousands of people milling about, the distinct feeling down in the Village, or strolling along the Hudson to see the Statue of Liberty.

Being able to eat food hot or NOT have to remember to bring diapers/wipes/stroller/etc. was also a plus:-)

I have to apologize, as the pictures are somewhat out of order.

Leaving the city. Goodbye New York...'til next time

There are so many unique buildings and cafes. I feel like I could spend a few weeks here and barely get a glimpse.

After singing karaoke, we walked to a little diner to grab some dessert.

Singing karaoke.

I really loved that I got to spend some time with Dana. See where City Grace church was, and also where she lives.

Top of the Rock

In front of the skating rink at Rockefeller Plaza. Can you guess how many times we had to take this picture?

Times Square

The Toys R Us Candyland section.

Times Square again.

Thanks to Josh for surprising me with such a wonderful trip and taking such good care of the boys while I was away (thanks also, mom!:-).

A little update

2010-02-16T20:58:00.000-08:00

Lately, something has been heavy on my mind.

One of the first symptoms when Bryce was first starting the downward decline into severe anemia was that he was really clingy. He wanted to be held all. the. time.

Lately, I started noticing much of the same. In the last week, he reverted to wanting to be held all the time, he was playing far less, he is back to cuddling and wanting to be rocked, and was just generally whiny all day. His coloring was again pale (well, pale for Bryce LOL)

I called up to the Ped Hematologist to find out what I should do. She told me it would be worth a Complete Blood Count to see where he is at after all this time, and make sure his levels are normal.

My mom came over at 9 this morning to watch Kayden, and we headed off for more labs. I hate to say I was worried....but I was worried.

I am so thankful to update you that all is completely normal. Whether it is a minor funk he is in or just a stage he will outgrow, all his blood counts and hemoglobin look normal.

Praise God!:-)

Good find?

2010-02-15T17:02:00.001-08:00

A lot of what I do for MiniMe BabyGear is try to find new products. Search the web for the next great invention.

Sometimes I find the coolest stuff- like the lollipop onesies or the crochet baby flower hat I just added. Then tonight I came across this knit beard for a man and busted a gut. It's creative, I will give them that!

I know. This blog post is seriously lacking.

I just don't have anything new, though, people. So, enjoy the bearded man for a few days while I find something inspiring to blog about.

RAK

2010-02-08T17:58:00.000-08:00

If you are here because you received a Random Act of Kindness....welcome!

I would love to take this opportunity to share why you were given a FREE GIFT.

Simply Put: I have tasted God's goodness in HIS FREE GIFT, and want to share that freedom with others.

God sent His son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for our sins. We did nothing to deserve it. We have to do nothing but accept it (kind of like your "Random Act of Kindness").

John 3:16-17 "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His son to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him."

Romans 3:22-24 "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified FREELY by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (emphasis mine)

1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins, and to purify us from all unrighteousness."

Accepting Jesus Christ is as simple as accepting that Christ is who He says He is, and that His death on the cross was for you. It is available to all- no matter how horrible your sins, or how long it has taken to accept it.

There are absolutely no strings attached to your Random Act of Kindness. Just a simple girl, saved by grace, wanting you to feel the love God has for us in sending His son to die and save us from eternal separation from Him. If you would love to talk more about this, please contact me at preciousjamie@hotmail.com

2010-02-08T17:54:00.000-08:00

If you are here because you received a Random Act of Kindness Card...welcome!

A Boy and His Pipe

2010-02-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

20 months went by with no pacifier in sight.

About two months ago, Bryce found a pink pacifier. Ever since then, he has fallen in love.

I should have taken all pacifiers out of the house STAT when he started showing an interest, but I never thought it would lead to this current obsession.

I have a feeling it is going to be really hard to break this bad habit.

Little Terror

2010-02-01T21:05:00.000-08:00

Wearing a cape is a MUST on top of the playhouse.

The terrible twos have arrived early, and are keeping me on my toes. Or rather my knees cleaning up mess after mess. Today I found my dental floss floating in the toilet.

Kayden has asked me when it will be time for summer, "I'm sick of wearing pants."

I think we all are ready to play outside again.

Good Times

2010-01-27T15:13:00.000-08:00

You know when someone looks familiar, and you just can't place them? You should know who the person is, but just cannot remember how.

It happens more than I would like to admit. It's a family trait. Matter of fact, my dad has a shirt that reads "Don't worry. I forgot your name, too." Nothing gets more attention than that shirt when we are in public. You watch strangers read it and start chuckling.

It happened this weekend when I was at the store. I knew Amy; she looked so familiar, but we could not place how we knew each other.

Did she play co-ed softball? No, that wasn't it.

Was she friends with my brothers? Nope.

Kids at the school Kayden goes to? Nope, not that either.

Our church? No

An old workplace? No

Family Friend? No

Finally, high school was mentioned.

15 years ago (EEEK!), I went to high school with her. I asked her who she hung out with.

A single name, one I vividly remember, and the memory flooded back.

I was twelve years old at the time. My mom and dad were going away, which did not happen often. I hardly ever remember a time where my parents left and I was alone with a friend.

I begged my parents to let us eat at Pizza Hut. Before you get the misconception that it is a far off adventure, the reality was that it was at the end of the street (about three houses away).

After much pleading, they finally agreed.

My friend L and I took off skipping down the road, sure we stepping towards independence and maturity in one outing sans parents.

While we were eating at Pizza Hut, L saw a group of girls that did not like her. Something about a boy, if I remember correctly. After many scowls and glares back and forth, I remember the feeling of terror and nervousness as the furied brows turned into banter back and forth.

We hurried and packed the pizza up to head home, and as we were leaving we turned around to see that same group of girls following us. Yelling loudly that they were going to beat us up. I was not sure if they were threats or full intentions, but I was too chicken to dawdle and find out.

The most wonderful thing happened. Walking past the entry to Pizza Hut, on their nightly walk, were my next door neighbors. We hooked up with them and talked to them the rest of the way home like nothing happened.

After chatting for a few more minutes in my backyard, my neighbors went home, leaving us alone to let our guards fall doing trampoline tricks.
Just in time for that group of girls to run wildly at us, hollering about "eating fists".

I screamed as loud as I could muster, jumped off the trampoline, and sprinted towards the door to the house. I honestly cannot even remember how we got inside, but I was scared. Wait. That is an understatement. I was terrified.

Eventually, my parents came home, and called the girls' parents. Three headlights roared down our street, each one transporting a girl made to apologize to us.

Back to present.

I sat there and debated whether I should bring up the story to Amy, who was still trying to place who I was.

I did, and we had a good laugh. She remembered the story, and it was honestly funny coming full circle with her. It almost felt good to see how far we have come since that day.

Makes me wonder (esp. now with facebook) if you have had any reconciliations or past connections?

Success

2010-01-25T20:56:00.000-08:00

They are both looking at the camera, and not crying.

I consider that a success.

A Celebrity Sighting

2010-01-20T14:38:00.000-08:00

Year: 1999

I was visiting Josh out in California. We decided to go to a football game, the first of the season. As I looked around the stands, something occurred to me that had never been in the forefront of my mind before.

Josh and I (along with his two friends) were the only white people at the game.

I had never realized just how, well, white our community was until that game. It was like the blinders were removed and I realized not all communities are full of mostly white people. Don't get me wrong- I am Dutch. I love this "Dutch Community". I just had never been aware of how non-diverse it was before.

Kayden reminded me again of that tonight.

We went to Josh's first girl's basketball game at Legacy. I watched as a black gentleman, wearing a navy pin stripe suit, came and sat down next to us. His hair was cropped short and he was carrying a black briefcase.

Thinking we were in the presence of the Commander in Chief, Kayden pointed to him and yelled to my mom "Grandma, do you like Barack Obama?"

New Shoes

2010-01-16T06:59:00.000-08:00

Do any of you participate in Coke rewards?

Between Amber's family, my parents, and us, we drank enough Coke to get Bryce a free pair of Jordans.

That is a lot of Coke (2000 points worth).

We went to the East Kentwood basketball game last week, and all Josh wanted was one picture of the boys with their new matching shoes. As you can see, they were not cooperating.

We did manage to snap this one picture of them all together. At least Josh looks good!

Plant

2010-01-13T23:26:00.000-08:00

Plant: Meet Cali, the puppy.

Poor Plant.

Our Life, in Pictures

2010-01-03T18:23:00.000-08:00

Alternatively titled: So many pictures your retina's might bleed.

10 years.

A decade.

Wow, that went by in a blink.

As I was preparing for this post, looking back over old pictures, so many wonderful memories come to mind. More for my own purpose than anyone else's, I thought I would document a few of the highlights.

Location: Ontario airport. It was the first time I met Josh, and this was taken before I boarded the plane.

I cried the whole way home, even though he was visiting a month later for Christmas.

Thus became our life. Anticipating our time together, seeing each other for a week, and then profound sadness when it came time to leave. Oh, how I hated leaving.

This picture is from our wedding. I just loved how it captured the church.

Beads and lace and tiaras, oh my!

Blond hair for both

Our first apartment in Redlands. My parents rented this mini-van and we drove to San Fran.

Taken in San Fran.

The Herman Miller Picnic, 2003

Josh mocking my dad and how high he wears his pants. No idea why they are inside out.

Visiting for Christmas 2003

Josh's sisters wedding 2004

The old classroom, with air cranked full blast.

Carmelo the dog. We got him and found out we were pregnant the next week. Go figure.

Our backyard, large by CA standards.

The city of Redlands. This has to be summer, because it is pretty smoggy.

2 Coral Court. Seven Eleven was kitty corner, and we walked to get Slurpees at least three times a week.

Josh's banners for Boys Basketball:-)

Just found out we were pregnant with Kayden

Met my parents in Vegas

My parents took us all on a trip to Myrtle Beach when I was about six months pregnant.

We are just a barrel of laughs, huh?

Baby Shower for K.

Our first Christmas with Kayden

Right before we moved to Michigan

The car that we owned for one month. Josh was hit by a drunk driver.

Summer of 2006

Turning ONE and loving life.

Pregnant with Brycer

With our new little baby.

_______________________________________

In honor of our anniversary, Josh surprised me by gathering our friends at Applebees for dinner. Chelle put up some great pictures here. As my gift, he planned a surprise trip to NYC with two friends. I am still shocked he pulled it off without my knowing!

Some of you may know that my Grandpa Van is my hero. He died a few years after we were married, but I always had a special relationship with him. He was known for being a teaser; always in a nice way.

Right after I got back from my first visit to CA and meeting Josh, I went to visit my grandparents. I took along a picture of Josh and I in front of the Santa Monica Ferris Wheel to show them my new love.

He looked at it for a while, then looked back up at me. With a twinkle in his eye, he said "How did you get him?"

I honestly still don't know.

I am blessed and fortunate that I get to spend this "beautiful thing we call life" with someone as great as Josh.

And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Ten years ago, we made that promise.

My sincere hope is we have forty more as great as the first ten.

His Happy Place

2009-12-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

A huge milestone passed in the Bird house, and not unnoticed. I just have not had time to sit down and do it blog justice. In the meantime, I found this pix from the preschool party.

I call it Big Boy Bookends, Bryce's Happy Place.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-17T08:02:00.000-08:00

He missed the MEMO.

2009-12-16T04:52:00.000-08:00

I asked Kayden to get dressed for preschool on Monday. Apparently he missed the MEMO that it is winter.

What to do with a Snow Day?

2009-12-10T17:35:00.000-08:00

We took some time organizing a craft project for the fourth graders this week.

And then working on Christmas Gifts for a few others:

The supplies.

A few jars, some ribbons, hot glue, bells.

Oh, and LOTS of candy:-)

and leftover candy that is now gone.

Snow days for us are an unexpected treat. It is like getting a bonus Saturday in the middle of the week. My house is clean, I got to craft, I moved some things into the apartment for the Burmese refugees.... I even got to take a nap!

I {heart} snow days.

Brycer Update

2009-12-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

We went yesterday to our final Pediatric Hemotology appointment.

Get this- Bryce is completely back to normal! Praise the Lord! His hemoglobin is 11.5, which is right where it should be.

Oh, how wonderful it has been to watch him get better.

We have watched our child who never wanted to get down wander off with excitement.
A full inch and one pound has been added in three weeks. Clothes that have fit him for an entire year are starting to get small.
Eating is now something he does gladly.
No more cardboard books!
Walking is now put aside for running and jumping and causing mischief of one kind or another.
His heart looks great and is beating normally.

He is a new kid.

The only bad side effect of iron is that his teeth have been stained completely gray. It bums me out, but is a small price to pay for a healthy baby.

The plan is to get his iron stores back up over the next three months and then he should be finished with iron.

This picture is blurry, but it represents Bryce these days. Active, Active, Active.

Chasing Cali, his favorite pastime.

Next stop- trying to get him to stay in nursery:-)

Does this kid know me, or what?

2009-12-06T18:17:00.000-08:00

Our daily schedule is a bit different than a "normal family" in that I almost never put our kids to bed.

It was decided long ago that I would begin work around that time, and Josh would take over the nightly duties of brushing teeth, reading stories, finding Dylan the dog, and tucking in.

Each night after being tucked in, Kayden will sneak down to the computer and ask me to come up to tell him a story and promises one in return. Knowing full well it is his way of stalling, I often concede. There is something sacred about bedtime. The truth of what is going on inside his head and heart always come to the surface in the darkness of his room. Vulnerabilities are disclosed, so I hate to miss that special time.

The story he desires could be anything. A certain toy he played with that evening and when it was purchased, the last time he spent the night at Grandmas, something that happened between Bryce and him.

I always start my story with "One there was a little boy named Kayden, and he....."

At the end of my third tale, I ask him to tell me his story as promised. He habitually shirks responsibility, and promises indulgance another evening.

Tonight, however, he obliged.

"One, there was a big girl named Mommy, who loved to buy clothes from Gymboree and take lots of pictures of Kayden."

First snow

2009-12-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

The Snow brought mixed reviews.

Kayden loved the snow and could have stayed out all night.

Bryce, not so much.

If you know Josh even a little bit, you know his feelings about snow.

I love the first snowfall, and think snow is great until January 1. After that, Janurary to April is a LONG stretch for me.

2009-12-03T18:24:00.000-08:00

Standing in line at Subway today, I was contemplating what the various mattress sizes are and how big each one is respectively, and the most wonderful thing happened. More on that later.

For the life of me, I cannot figure out or keep straight the various sizes of beds. I fully remember the Single, the Queen, and King, but the other sizes in there get me every time.

Is a full bigger than a double? What about the twin, where does that fit in?

Back to Subway.

The lady in front of me gave me a big grin and said "Merry Christmas!!", and the two cashiers were smiling and looking at me. Almost as if they were waiting on me to say something. I started to feel a bit uncomfortable, what with four people staring and looking happily at me.

"Did I miss something?" I asked.

"That lady just paid for your sub!" said the cashier.

It made me feel good. Really good. Someone I do not know doing something for me for no other reason than to be nice.

Random Acts of Kindness. It made my day, honestly.

And then I thought of many of you doing the same thing.

As most of you know, the Social Action and Relief Committee is sponsoring a Burmese family. They are set to arrive December 9. I cannot imagine leaving everything I have ever know to fly to another country in which I did not speak the language. So many of you have donated items or gone to the store to pick up supplies for them. I know they will feel like I did today- loved by people they don't even know. It is a blessing to be a part of this story.

Matthew 25:40 The King will answer them "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."

You Better Watch Out

2009-12-03T18:18:00.000-08:00

Santa Claus is coming to Town.....errrr, my dad's work.

Meet Cali

2009-11-28T18:27:00.000-08:00

Eight weeks old and tons of energy.

The boys love her already. All three of them.