And on the next day, when they had departed from Bethany, He became hungry. And seeing at a distance a fig tree in leaf, He went to see if perhaps He would find anything on it; and when He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. And He answered and said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again!" And His disciples were listening.
And they came to Jerusalem. And He entered the temple and began to cast out those who were buying and selling in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves; and He would not permit anyone to carry goods through the temple. And He began to teach and say to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a robbers' den."
And the chief prests and the scribes heard this, and began seeking how to destroy Him; for they were afraid of Him, for all the multitude was astonished at His teaching.
And when evening came, they would go out of the city.
Mark 11:11-19
Other References
Isaiah 56:7
Jeremiah 7:11
Matthew 21:12-19
Luke 19:45-48
Swamp
Monday, April 2, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Palm Sunday
And after He had said these things, He was going on ahead, ascending to Jerusalem.
And it came about that when He approached Bethpage and Bethany, near the mount that is called Olivet, He sent two disciples, saying, "Go into the village opposite you, in which as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one yet has ever sate; untie it, and bring it here. And if anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' thus shall you speak, 'The Lord has need of it.'"
And those who were sent went away and found it just as He had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, "Why are you untying the colt?"
And they said, "The Lord has need of it."
And they brought it to Jesus, and they threw their garments on the colt, and put Jesus on it. And as He was going, they were spreading their garments in the road. And as He was now approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"
And some of the Pharisees in the multitude said to Him, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples."
And He answered and said, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!"
And when He approached, He saw the city and wept over it, saying "If you had known in this day; even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes. For the days shall come upon you when your enemies will throw up a bank before you, and surround you, and hem you in on every side, and will level you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not recognize the time of your visitation."
Luke 19:28-44
Other references of note:
Psalm 118:26
Zechariah 9:9
Mark 11:1-11
John 12:12-19
And it came about that when He approached Bethpage and Bethany, near the mount that is called Olivet, He sent two disciples, saying, "Go into the village opposite you, in which as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one yet has ever sate; untie it, and bring it here. And if anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' thus shall you speak, 'The Lord has need of it.'"
And those who were sent went away and found it just as He had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, "Why are you untying the colt?"
And they said, "The Lord has need of it."
And they brought it to Jesus, and they threw their garments on the colt, and put Jesus on it. And as He was going, they were spreading their garments in the road. And as He was now approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"
And some of the Pharisees in the multitude said to Him, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples."
And He answered and said, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!"
And when He approached, He saw the city and wept over it, saying "If you had known in this day; even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes. For the days shall come upon you when your enemies will throw up a bank before you, and surround you, and hem you in on every side, and will level you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not recognize the time of your visitation."
Luke 19:28-44
Other references of note:
Psalm 118:26
Zechariah 9:9
Mark 11:1-11
John 12:12-19
Friday, March 23, 2012
Not the mom I thought I was...
I always thought I was that Mom. You know, the "fun" one. Clearly not the "cool" one (everyone who reads this knows me far too well), but along the same lines -- the mom who is up for anything, who participates, laughs mud in the face, etc...
Well, tonight I learned differently.
For months we've been talking about taking Charlie camping -- first in the backyard, then a nearby park, then the world! And Charlie, who absolutely adores his tepee and camping gear, talks about it all the time, so this evening when he mentioned doing it "sometime soon" (what we always tell him), Jason said, "Why not t-o-n-i-g-h-t?" (What on earth will we do when the kid learns to spell?!?)
And I said, "Because..." Then I had Jason check the weather and when there was a 30% chance of intermittent storms, I thought I was safe. When he pointed out that there is always a 30% chance of intermittent storms in South Carolina, I decided, "If you want it to be a Daddy-Son night, that's fine."
What? Did those words come out of my mouth? Why?? I love to camp. I can sleep anywhere comfortably. I scooped the yard just this afternoon. I'm still not sure I understand it.
At first, Jason was concerned that I would feel left out, but while I might not understand my motivation, I am completely behind my decision. I will be sleeping inside tonight.
So, I helped set up the tent, gathered the necessary camping gear (sleeping bags, lantern, Bella, Myrtle, jammies, water, scotch and the iPad), said goodnight and came inside.
Now, when it comes time for the first actual camping trip nothing will keep me away, but tonight while they "sleep" under the stars, I'll be enjoying a glass of wine, Say Yes to the Dress and Girl Scout Cookies on the couch...and as much as I feel like that should bother me, I wouldn't have it any other way!
Well, tonight I learned differently.
For months we've been talking about taking Charlie camping -- first in the backyard, then a nearby park, then the world! And Charlie, who absolutely adores his tepee and camping gear, talks about it all the time, so this evening when he mentioned doing it "sometime soon" (what we always tell him), Jason said, "Why not t-o-n-i-g-h-t?" (What on earth will we do when the kid learns to spell?!?)
And I said, "Because..." Then I had Jason check the weather and when there was a 30% chance of intermittent storms, I thought I was safe. When he pointed out that there is always a 30% chance of intermittent storms in South Carolina, I decided, "If you want it to be a Daddy-Son night, that's fine."
What? Did those words come out of my mouth? Why?? I love to camp. I can sleep anywhere comfortably. I scooped the yard just this afternoon. I'm still not sure I understand it.
At first, Jason was concerned that I would feel left out, but while I might not understand my motivation, I am completely behind my decision. I will be sleeping inside tonight.
So, I helped set up the tent, gathered the necessary camping gear (sleeping bags, lantern, Bella, Myrtle, jammies, water, scotch and the iPad), said goodnight and came inside.
Now, when it comes time for the first actual camping trip nothing will keep me away, but tonight while they "sleep" under the stars, I'll be enjoying a glass of wine, Say Yes to the Dress and Girl Scout Cookies on the couch...and as much as I feel like that should bother me, I wouldn't have it any other way!
Thankfully, Daddy was an Eagle Scout!
...or maybe not!
Grudging smile, because I promised to leave...
apparently I wasn't the only one that thought
a "Daddy-Son" campout was a good idea!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Like Mother Like Son?
It's no secret that I'm a bit of a "nerd". My favorite game is Trivial Pursuit. My favorite hobby is reading. My favorite TV channel is the History channel. So, yes, I'm a nerd.
And to be honest, it's been kind of fun for me to see some of these same "bookish" traits start to develop in Charlie, but this past weekend was a pretty strong lesson along the lines of "be careful what you wish for..."
So, with Spring having sprung a bit early here in SC, Jason hit the harbor for sheepshead this Saturday and I took Charlie to his first official soccer game solo. We were the first ones there (again, a bit of my nerdiness), and Charlie had a ball running around the field scoring goals by himself and then with his good friend Landon.
Everything was going well as the rest of the team arrived and the game started. Yes, Charlie did seem to be following Addison around the field a bit more than the ball, but he was on the field and moving (most of the time).
Then, since it's 4 on 4 soccer, Charlie was subbed out for a teammate and he enjoyed his break on the sidelines. In fact, he enjoyed it so much that he refused to be subbed back in.
I tried to be stern and convince him to go back in, but that resulted in him running across the middle of the field mid-game towards the playground equipment...with me trailing behind him. Three times.
After the second time I put him in time out and threatened to cancel our promised trip to the library if he did it again. He did it again, so I told him we were no longer going to the library, therein leading to quite possibly the most amusing and most embarrasing moment of my adult life. Wallowing in the muddy sidelines, my son wailed, "Nooooooo! I want to go the LIBARY!" Over and over again...
Thankfully, my fellow parents were dealing with would-be players who were playing in the dirt, watching airplanes and picking flowers, so while amused, they could picture themselves in my shoes and I received plenty of compassion.
Nonetheless, I fully plan on bringing this up at opportune moments over the next 30 years...just for fun!
And to be honest, it's been kind of fun for me to see some of these same "bookish" traits start to develop in Charlie, but this past weekend was a pretty strong lesson along the lines of "be careful what you wish for..."
So, with Spring having sprung a bit early here in SC, Jason hit the harbor for sheepshead this Saturday and I took Charlie to his first official soccer game solo. We were the first ones there (again, a bit of my nerdiness), and Charlie had a ball running around the field scoring goals by himself and then with his good friend Landon.
Everything was going well as the rest of the team arrived and the game started. Yes, Charlie did seem to be following Addison around the field a bit more than the ball, but he was on the field and moving (most of the time).
Then, since it's 4 on 4 soccer, Charlie was subbed out for a teammate and he enjoyed his break on the sidelines. In fact, he enjoyed it so much that he refused to be subbed back in.
I tried to be stern and convince him to go back in, but that resulted in him running across the middle of the field mid-game towards the playground equipment...with me trailing behind him. Three times.
After the second time I put him in time out and threatened to cancel our promised trip to the library if he did it again. He did it again, so I told him we were no longer going to the library, therein leading to quite possibly the most amusing and most embarrasing moment of my adult life. Wallowing in the muddy sidelines, my son wailed, "Nooooooo! I want to go the LIBARY!" Over and over again...
Thankfully, my fellow parents were dealing with would-be players who were playing in the dirt, watching airplanes and picking flowers, so while amused, they could picture themselves in my shoes and I received plenty of compassion.
Nonetheless, I fully plan on bringing this up at opportune moments over the next 30 years...just for fun!
Having a Ball
On the Field!
Time Out
Miraculously, he did make it back to the field for one last play
Thursday, March 15, 2012
"I'm thwee!"
What is better than cake and icecream? What is better than hotdogs, macaroni & cheese and che-tohs? What is even better than a backyard full of friends and sidewalk chalk?
Firetrucks!
Jason and I couldn't be happier with Charlie's birthday party. Despite a day full of emergencies, the firetrucks pulled up right on time and after an hour of climbing and driving and posing, Charlie and his buddies had to be pulled from the trucks in order to join us for dinner. And the firemen even stayed for cake and icecream! It really doesn't get any cooler than that when you're "thwee"!
Plus, our wonderfully generous friends and neighbors helped us raise over $400 for the Carolina Childrens' Charity...which just may push Old Fort Station #5 over the top and win them a home cooked meal during their fundraising drive next week.
There are no words to express how grateful we are for a healthy child, generous friends, safe neighborhood, free country and overwhelmingly loving God. Life is good!
Firetrucks!
Jason and I couldn't be happier with Charlie's birthday party. Despite a day full of emergencies, the firetrucks pulled up right on time and after an hour of climbing and driving and posing, Charlie and his buddies had to be pulled from the trucks in order to join us for dinner. And the firemen even stayed for cake and icecream! It really doesn't get any cooler than that when you're "thwee"!
Plus, our wonderfully generous friends and neighbors helped us raise over $400 for the Carolina Childrens' Charity...which just may push Old Fort Station #5 over the top and win them a home cooked meal during their fundraising drive next week.
There are no words to express how grateful we are for a healthy child, generous friends, safe neighborhood, free country and overwhelmingly loving God. Life is good!
Worth every second!
Coming Through!
Buckled and Ready
Fun with Friends
I break for candy!
Nothing else to wish for
Loving his new "fire-shotter"
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Fifteen Minutes of Fun
So I walk into Charlie's daycare to pick him up and as I make my way down the hall three little girls from the three year old class (to which Charlie will be moving when there is a vacancy) come in from the playground.
Anna Brooks: Charlie!
Unknown Little Girl: You Charlie's Mom?
Clara: Charlie's in there (pointing to the Older Twos Room)
Then I walk into his classroom and Charlie and Kara are holding hands and dancing while he sings "We Will, We Will Rock N Roll..." and he proceeds to fall to the floor and roll around...
Then as we walk out the front door he informsme that Lucy the Leprechaun is coming and "leaves stinky footprints" and let's out his biggest belly laugh...
Then after he chooses a 6 foot stick to bring home (his latest hobby/obsession) and is climbing into the car, I notice that he has blue highlights in his hair, and I ask, "How did your hair turn blue?!"
He responds, "Micah. And it's purple. You should get me a purple shirt!" Then he promptly dissolves into giggles...
Finally, as we round the bend towards our house and I straighten my glasses to keep the bright sun out of my eyes, gigantic raindrops start to pelt the car, pouring down from the blue sky.
Who knew that fifteen minutes could be so wonderful?
Anna Brooks: Charlie!
Unknown Little Girl: You Charlie's Mom?
Clara: Charlie's in there (pointing to the Older Twos Room)
Then I walk into his classroom and Charlie and Kara are holding hands and dancing while he sings "We Will, We Will Rock N Roll..." and he proceeds to fall to the floor and roll around...
Then as we walk out the front door he informsme that Lucy the Leprechaun is coming and "leaves stinky footprints" and let's out his biggest belly laugh...
Then after he chooses a 6 foot stick to bring home (his latest hobby/obsession) and is climbing into the car, I notice that he has blue highlights in his hair, and I ask, "How did your hair turn blue?!"
He responds, "Micah. And it's purple. You should get me a purple shirt!" Then he promptly dissolves into giggles...
Finally, as we round the bend towards our house and I straighten my glasses to keep the bright sun out of my eyes, gigantic raindrops start to pelt the car, pouring down from the blue sky.
Who knew that fifteen minutes could be so wonderful?
Friday, March 9, 2012
Getting Better Every Day
Just a glimpse as to why...
Mommy: How old are you?
Charlie: Three!!!
Mommy: Wow, three?! Do you feel bigger?
Charlie: Yes! See if you can still lift me!!!
Later...while with a special Mickey Mouse pancake on his plate (made by Daddy)...
Charlie: Will you cut Mickey for me please?
Mommy: Of course (reaches for his plate and starts to cut)
Charlie: No, no! Don't cut him...he'll be so sad...
And it's only 9:00 AM. No wonder the past three years have been so awesome!!!
Mommy: How old are you?
Charlie: Three!!!
Mommy: Wow, three?! Do you feel bigger?
Charlie: Yes! See if you can still lift me!!!
Later...while with a special Mickey Mouse pancake on his plate (made by Daddy)...
Charlie: Will you cut Mickey for me please?
Mommy: Of course (reaches for his plate and starts to cut)
Charlie: No, no! Don't cut him...he'll be so sad...
And it's only 9:00 AM. No wonder the past three years have been so awesome!!!
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Leappads and Tigers and Boats, Oh My!
As everyone knows, Charlie is an all-around happy kid, but bring his grandparents to town and he reaches another level. He just adores visits from BaBa & PaPa and Grandma & Grandpa, and this past weekend he had BaBa and PaPa at his beck and call for three days. I'm starting to realize that it really doesn't get much better than that when you're (almost) 3!
After a quiet(ish) dinner at home Thursday night we kicked off our adventures with Charlie's first ever trip to the circus. Once he kind of figured out what we were talking about, he was extremely excited, then he got an icee, then the elephants walked in and he was in absolute heaven.
While he may not have sat still, he more-or-less sat for two hours -- if I hadn't been there to see it, I wouldn't have believed it! The tigers were Charlie's favorite act, most likely because his favorite part of the whole thing was his icee in a tiger cup (which we managed to lose in Georgetown that afternoon), but the flying, flaming man was definitely the highlight for the adults.
Following the Circus, Charlie napped en route to Georgetown, where we toured an off-shore fishing boat, enjoyed an early dinner on the pier, and picked up a helmsman so Charlie can safely sail his bunkbeds through the seven seas.
I am fairly sure we have never seen as much rain as came down Saturday, so soccer was cancelled, but we spent a fun afternoon shopping and riding rides at the outlet mall, then enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Cypress downtown -- definitely not a kid-friendly restaurant, but we had an amazing waiter, and I dare you to find one kid out there who wouldn't just adore the deep-fried mac n cheese and lemon cheesecake icecream!
Finally on Sunday we relaxed a bit in the morning then toured around IOP looking for a beach house for this summer's family vacation. Due to a crazy-busy summer, we couldn't be more excited and grateful that BaBa, PaPa, aunts, uncles and cousins will all be back in the Lowcountry in July!
Sadly, BaBa and PaPa had to go back to KC Sunday evening, but Charlie is already making plans for when he sees them in May!
After a quiet(ish) dinner at home Thursday night we kicked off our adventures with Charlie's first ever trip to the circus. Once he kind of figured out what we were talking about, he was extremely excited, then he got an icee, then the elephants walked in and he was in absolute heaven.
While he may not have sat still, he more-or-less sat for two hours -- if I hadn't been there to see it, I wouldn't have believed it! The tigers were Charlie's favorite act, most likely because his favorite part of the whole thing was his icee in a tiger cup (which we managed to lose in Georgetown that afternoon), but the flying, flaming man was definitely the highlight for the adults.
Following the Circus, Charlie napped en route to Georgetown, where we toured an off-shore fishing boat, enjoyed an early dinner on the pier, and picked up a helmsman so Charlie can safely sail his bunkbeds through the seven seas.
I am fairly sure we have never seen as much rain as came down Saturday, so soccer was cancelled, but we spent a fun afternoon shopping and riding rides at the outlet mall, then enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Cypress downtown -- definitely not a kid-friendly restaurant, but we had an amazing waiter, and I dare you to find one kid out there who wouldn't just adore the deep-fried mac n cheese and lemon cheesecake icecream!
Finally on Sunday we relaxed a bit in the morning then toured around IOP looking for a beach house for this summer's family vacation. Due to a crazy-busy summer, we couldn't be more excited and grateful that BaBa, PaPa, aunts, uncles and cousins will all be back in the Lowcountry in July!
Sadly, BaBa and PaPa had to go back to KC Sunday evening, but Charlie is already making plans for when he sees them in May!
The Best Part of the Greatest Show on Earth
Wow!
Armed and Dangerous!
Tigers!
All aboard!
Rootbeer Floats all around
No rain is going to dampen our fun!
Thursday, March 1, 2012
After Mama's Own Heart
Jason walks into the living room while Charlie and Mommy are sitting on the couch watching the news...
Charlie: Guess what, Daddy?!
Daddy: What, Buddy?
Charlie: We made it to my Birthday Month!
Daddy: We what?
Charlie: We made it to my Birthday Month!!
Daddy looks at Mommy and rolls his eyes: Yes, Charlie, apparently you and Mommy get Birthday Months.
Mommy grins.
Charlie: Guess what, Daddy?!
Daddy: What, Buddy?
Charlie: We made it to my Birthday Month!
Daddy: We what?
Charlie: We made it to my Birthday Month!!
Daddy looks at Mommy and rolls his eyes: Yes, Charlie, apparently you and Mommy get Birthday Months.
Mommy grins.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
BFFs
What do you get when combine a 7 hour drive each way, possible severe storms, and a stubborn, potty-training, almost 3 year old? Would you believe an absolutely FABULOUS mini-vacation????
I will be the first to admit that there are times that my son drives me absolutely insane, and that despite the fact that part of me thinks he's perfect (at least perfect for me!) he can be an absolute terror. Aware of this, I was somewhat petrified when I started to fully understand what I was getting myself into when I chose to take a Mother-Son trip to Norfolk, VA to visit Lakely, Lea & Tony while Jason was at Daytona.
Just as stubborn as Charlie though, (and really excited to see our good friends), I loaded up the Yukon with enough snacks for an Arctic expedition, a wide variety of books and toys, Daddy's iPad and the Fireman Umbrella -- plus I dangled a special pancake lunch at Cracker Barrel in front of Charlie -- and we were in business.
Yes, my car is full of crumbs. Yes, Charlie went through the entire toy bag before we hit the NC line. No, the movies on the iPad didn't entertain him for more than 20 minutes at a stretch. Yes, we got stuck in tunnel and drawbridge traffic on the way there and heavy rains on the way home. No, Charlie wouldn't use the gas station or South of the Border restrooms..
Nevertheless, Charlie and I had some of the most hilarious and interesting conversations we'd ever had while we were on the road, he napped each afternoon while we were there, he slept in bed with me two of the nights, and we made it home alive!
So you might be thinking that the best part of the trip was our Mother-Son bonding, right? Nope! The best part was Charlie & Lakely's blossoming friendship. It's hard to describe -- they are just 2 after all, but they had an absolute ball together. They laughed and chased and ran and roller-skated and snacked and hugged and played hide-and-seek together for two plus days.
Both Lea and I are convinced that not only will they be friends forever, but they will be that oh-so-critical opposite sex friend for each other (and yes, both Tony and Jason rolled their eyes at this). You know, though, the one that can tell her when the boy she likes is a jerk and offer to beat him up or tell him that even though his girlfriend is cute, she's superficial and not good enough for him or let her know that even though she and her "true love" broke up, there are way better guys out there (just not any of his friends) or gently buy effectively convince him that girls do not think bodily noises are cool...
And the icing on the cake? While Charlie and Lakely were building their life-long friendship, Lea and I were catching up on old times, talking about all her plans for baby Cashton, and relaxing to HGTV...in many ways it was the perfect vacation (if only Daddy had been in on the fun).
We can't wait to see them again...but until then we have some amazingly precious memories...
Driving away from Lakely's house...
Mommy: So Buddy, what was your favorite part of our trip? What are you going to tell Daddy about?
Charlie: Just a minute. I have a hangnail... ... ... Ok. I got it.
Mommy: Ok then...so what was your favorite part of our trip?
Charlie: Lakely.
Back inside, following a super-sweet hug and kiss on the cheek...
Lakely (hand to her cheek): More.
Lea: More what?
Lakely: More kisses.
I will be the first to admit that there are times that my son drives me absolutely insane, and that despite the fact that part of me thinks he's perfect (at least perfect for me!) he can be an absolute terror. Aware of this, I was somewhat petrified when I started to fully understand what I was getting myself into when I chose to take a Mother-Son trip to Norfolk, VA to visit Lakely, Lea & Tony while Jason was at Daytona.
Just as stubborn as Charlie though, (and really excited to see our good friends), I loaded up the Yukon with enough snacks for an Arctic expedition, a wide variety of books and toys, Daddy's iPad and the Fireman Umbrella -- plus I dangled a special pancake lunch at Cracker Barrel in front of Charlie -- and we were in business.
Yes, my car is full of crumbs. Yes, Charlie went through the entire toy bag before we hit the NC line. No, the movies on the iPad didn't entertain him for more than 20 minutes at a stretch. Yes, we got stuck in tunnel and drawbridge traffic on the way there and heavy rains on the way home. No, Charlie wouldn't use the gas station or South of the Border restrooms..
Nevertheless, Charlie and I had some of the most hilarious and interesting conversations we'd ever had while we were on the road, he napped each afternoon while we were there, he slept in bed with me two of the nights, and we made it home alive!
So you might be thinking that the best part of the trip was our Mother-Son bonding, right? Nope! The best part was Charlie & Lakely's blossoming friendship. It's hard to describe -- they are just 2 after all, but they had an absolute ball together. They laughed and chased and ran and roller-skated and snacked and hugged and played hide-and-seek together for two plus days.
Both Lea and I are convinced that not only will they be friends forever, but they will be that oh-so-critical opposite sex friend for each other (and yes, both Tony and Jason rolled their eyes at this). You know, though, the one that can tell her when the boy she likes is a jerk and offer to beat him up or tell him that even though his girlfriend is cute, she's superficial and not good enough for him or let her know that even though she and her "true love" broke up, there are way better guys out there (just not any of his friends) or gently buy effectively convince him that girls do not think bodily noises are cool...
And the icing on the cake? While Charlie and Lakely were building their life-long friendship, Lea and I were catching up on old times, talking about all her plans for baby Cashton, and relaxing to HGTV...in many ways it was the perfect vacation (if only Daddy had been in on the fun).
We can't wait to see them again...but until then we have some amazingly precious memories...
Driving away from Lakely's house...
Mommy: So Buddy, what was your favorite part of our trip? What are you going to tell Daddy about?
Charlie: Just a minute. I have a hangnail... ... ... Ok. I got it.
Mommy: Ok then...so what was your favorite part of our trip?
Charlie: Lakely.
Back inside, following a super-sweet hug and kiss on the cheek...
Lakely (hand to her cheek): More.
Lea: More what?
Lakely: More kisses.
Not sure if he's more excited about the trip or his McMuffin at this point...
Saturday Morning Cartoons
What could be sweeter than turning around to this?
Bumper Carts!
Maxxed-Out!
Roller Babies
Yes...we actually stopped here...
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
The Best Saturday Ever
Eight years ago today was a Saturday, and I spent the day surrounded by my family and closest friends, being pampered, enjoying a celebratory lunch, donning the most beautiful dress I'll ever own (that I hope I get to wear in heaven...if we have clothes) and posing for hundreds of pictures, all while filled with an incredible joy and anticipation.
Then right about 6:20 in the evening I found myself alone for the first time all day, and right there in the Mulligan Room, I started to cry. I was completely overwhelmed by the love and excitement knowing that the church was filling up with hundreds of people who had come just to see Jason and I pledge to spend the rest of our lives together.
Thankfully, Dad walked in after just a few minutes, and the mood quickly shifted to childish glee as we tried to spy through the window at the last-minute arrivals without being seen ourselves. Then the music crescendoed and the mean church lady came and escorted us into the lobby for the most glorious walk of my entire life...
Following the ceremony, my new husband and I spent the next 5 hours dancing and laughing and dining and hugging and drinking champagne. I had never felt more beautiful, more joyful or more absolutely certain about my life. I just knew that no Saturday would ever live up to this one, and I spent the next few years trying to convince Jason that we should do it all over again.
Fast forward to this past Saturday evening...after a day spent at the soccer field, re-mulching the yard and visiting the library, we settled in to make panini sandwiches and play Hide the Sock Monkey and Uno Moo for game night.
At 7:30 Jason took Charlie up for his bath, and finding myself alone for the first time all day, I finished the dishes, gathered up the dog toys and poured a glass of "affordable" wine. Then I joined the boys upstairs for the stories, prayers and songs of Charlie's bedtime routine. Once Charlie was tucked away, Jason took a shower and I nestled into the couch, only to cuddle up and fall asleep within about 10 minutes of him joining me and turning on the NASCAR race.
Then, rather than jetting off to Hawaii Sunday morning, we frantically shushed and distracted Charlie during church, Jason did his best to corral him while I attended a meeting for Mission Charleston 2102, then we hustled him home for a quick nap before the Congregational Meeting that evening.
Clearly I didn't spend 20+ years of dreaming, 7 months planning and thousands of dollars on this past Saturday night, which makes it all the more amazing and beautiful to realize that I loved it so much more than that perfect night 8 years ago and nothing could convince me to trade one for the other...not even the chance to wear my fabulous dress again...
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Then right about 6:20 in the evening I found myself alone for the first time all day, and right there in the Mulligan Room, I started to cry. I was completely overwhelmed by the love and excitement knowing that the church was filling up with hundreds of people who had come just to see Jason and I pledge to spend the rest of our lives together.
Thankfully, Dad walked in after just a few minutes, and the mood quickly shifted to childish glee as we tried to spy through the window at the last-minute arrivals without being seen ourselves. Then the music crescendoed and the mean church lady came and escorted us into the lobby for the most glorious walk of my entire life...
Following the ceremony, my new husband and I spent the next 5 hours dancing and laughing and dining and hugging and drinking champagne. I had never felt more beautiful, more joyful or more absolutely certain about my life. I just knew that no Saturday would ever live up to this one, and I spent the next few years trying to convince Jason that we should do it all over again.
Fast forward to this past Saturday evening...after a day spent at the soccer field, re-mulching the yard and visiting the library, we settled in to make panini sandwiches and play Hide the Sock Monkey and Uno Moo for game night.
At 7:30 Jason took Charlie up for his bath, and finding myself alone for the first time all day, I finished the dishes, gathered up the dog toys and poured a glass of "affordable" wine. Then I joined the boys upstairs for the stories, prayers and songs of Charlie's bedtime routine. Once Charlie was tucked away, Jason took a shower and I nestled into the couch, only to cuddle up and fall asleep within about 10 minutes of him joining me and turning on the NASCAR race.
Then, rather than jetting off to Hawaii Sunday morning, we frantically shushed and distracted Charlie during church, Jason did his best to corral him while I attended a meeting for Mission Charleston 2102, then we hustled him home for a quick nap before the Congregational Meeting that evening.
Clearly I didn't spend 20+ years of dreaming, 7 months planning and thousands of dollars on this past Saturday night, which makes it all the more amazing and beautiful to realize that I loved it so much more than that perfect night 8 years ago and nothing could convince me to trade one for the other...not even the chance to wear my fabulous dress again...
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Bend it Like Batliner
I never thought that standing in a muddy field at 9:00 AM on a Saturday morning could be so much fun... Of course, when you add the gaggle of 2 & 3 year olds, gigantic socks, way too many soccer balls and Chee-tohs, how could it be anything but?!?!
Unsurprisingly, despite the fact that Charlie got to spend the morning running around in circles, despite the fact that two of his good buddies, Philip and Landon, are on his team, despite the fact that he got a Capri Sun and Chee-tohs at 9:45 in the morning...can you guess what his first question was when we got in the car?
"Daddy, what was the little blond girl's name?" That's our boy...
Unsurprisingly, despite the fact that Charlie got to spend the morning running around in circles, despite the fact that two of his good buddies, Philip and Landon, are on his team, despite the fact that he got a Capri Sun and Chee-tohs at 9:45 in the morning...can you guess what his first question was when we got in the car?
"Daddy, what was the little blond girl's name?" That's our boy...
Checking out his Warm-Ups
Excited to see friend and teammate, Philip!
Pregrame Prayer
So...is this really what we're here to do?
Anybody know what we do with the red ball?
This is more like it!
Whew! What a Practice!
Proud Mama
Thursday, February 16, 2012
So sweet...
At school Tuesday afternoon...
Miss Chelsea: Charlie, will you be my Valentine?
Charlie: No.
Miss Chelsea: Why not?
Charlie: I'm my Mommy's Valentine.
It really doesn't get any better, does it?
Miss Chelsea: Charlie, will you be my Valentine?
Charlie: No.
Miss Chelsea: Why not?
Charlie: I'm my Mommy's Valentine.
It really doesn't get any better, does it?
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
My Valentines
I absolutely adore "Consumer" holidays. I know, I know...Valentine's Day is just a scam to get us to spend ridiculous amounts of money on cards we'll throw away, candy we don't need and cheap pink stuffed animals, but I love it anyway!
In fact, we started celebrating over the weekend, decorating and delivering Valentine's to a few of our fabulous neighbors. Then we kicked off this morning with way too much candy, leading up to a cupcake-filled day of parties at school, and unless all of this excitement and sugar turns our little monster into one of the Wild Things, we're going to finish up with a family date at Tomatoes.
Jason definitely made some of our pre-Charlie Valentine's Days memorable (I mean, what could be better than a Brita water pitcher and the opening night of Hannibal??? (love you!)), but I have to say having two Valentine's to shower with kisses and hugs and candy is way more fun than one!
In fact, we started celebrating over the weekend, decorating and delivering Valentine's to a few of our fabulous neighbors. Then we kicked off this morning with way too much candy, leading up to a cupcake-filled day of parties at school, and unless all of this excitement and sugar turns our little monster into one of the Wild Things, we're going to finish up with a family date at Tomatoes.
Jason definitely made some of our pre-Charlie Valentine's Days memorable (I mean, what could be better than a Brita water pitcher and the opening night of Hannibal??? (love you!)), but I have to say having two Valentine's to shower with kisses and hugs and candy is way more fun than one!
Getting in the spirit
"Decorating" our Valentine Cookies
Our favorite Valentine
Off to make deliveries
First Delivery -- Success!
Making the rounds...
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Happy Kiss You So Much Day!
I did not grow up in a very huggy family. We love each other, but were not the kind of family to give hugs anytime anyone left the room, left for school, etc, so I've always been pretty big on personal space. In fact, back in my office cube days, someone could ruin a relationship right off the bat by standing too close in my cube.
Anyway, fast forward to early motherhood when I had an infant attached (quite literally) to me for hours each day and if anything, I think I got worse. Just ask Jason. By the time he came home from work in the early days he was lucky to get a high-five, I was feeling so claustrophobic and over-touched some days.
Slowly things began to change, though. First Charlie weaned himself, then he started to walk, then he started to run, then climb in and out of the car, then do pretty much everything on his own, and I realized something.
It may have been trial by fire, but I have absolutely, positively, without a doubt become a huggy person -- and most days my baby is too busy to be hugged. Every once in a while, though, if he's feeling sleepy or sad or just extra cuddly, he'll say to me, "Mommy, you can hug me so much." And boy do I!
In fact, I've recently started requesting to "hug you so much," and while sometimes Charlie agrees, sometimes he tells me that "No. Today is not 'hug you so much day', tomorrow is"...or Tuesday or Saturday or just about any other day that comes to mind...so it has of course become our favorite game.
Based on Tuesday's requests, yesterday became "Hug You So Much Day," then caught up in the fun, Charlie also declared it "Tickle You So Much Day" and today "Kiss You So Much Day" and next Tuesday "Cuddle You So Much Day".
And while I have always loved holidays, I have to say these are my absolute favorite, so Happy Kiss You So Much Day to one and all!
Anyway, fast forward to early motherhood when I had an infant attached (quite literally) to me for hours each day and if anything, I think I got worse. Just ask Jason. By the time he came home from work in the early days he was lucky to get a high-five, I was feeling so claustrophobic and over-touched some days.
Slowly things began to change, though. First Charlie weaned himself, then he started to walk, then he started to run, then climb in and out of the car, then do pretty much everything on his own, and I realized something.
It may have been trial by fire, but I have absolutely, positively, without a doubt become a huggy person -- and most days my baby is too busy to be hugged. Every once in a while, though, if he's feeling sleepy or sad or just extra cuddly, he'll say to me, "Mommy, you can hug me so much." And boy do I!
In fact, I've recently started requesting to "hug you so much," and while sometimes Charlie agrees, sometimes he tells me that "No. Today is not 'hug you so much day', tomorrow is"...or Tuesday or Saturday or just about any other day that comes to mind...so it has of course become our favorite game.
Based on Tuesday's requests, yesterday became "Hug You So Much Day," then caught up in the fun, Charlie also declared it "Tickle You So Much Day" and today "Kiss You So Much Day" and next Tuesday "Cuddle You So Much Day".
And while I have always loved holidays, I have to say these are my absolute favorite, so Happy Kiss You So Much Day to one and all!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Another Bible Study
So Charlie is crazy as ever, but time is tight this week (a bit of meeting overload), so here is the Bible Study we did Monday night. Right now we're focusing on the characteristics/qualities of God, according to the Bible (interesting place to look to get to know Him, huh?) and why it matters to know who He really is, rather than who the world wants Him to be...
One True God
Psalm 135:1-21
One True God
Psalm 135:1-21
- Who:
- Psalmist (possibly David)
- To Israel (135:1b, 135:19-20a)
- To all believers (135:2, 135:20b)
- About God
- What
- Command to Praise Him (135:1,3)
- Command to Bless Him (135:19-21)
- When
- No boundaries
- Implication of repeatedly, continuously by repetition of commands
- Where - No boundaries
- Why
- He is good (135:3a)
- His name is lovely (135:3b)
- He chose Israel (135:4)
- He is great (135:5a)
- He is above all other gods (135:5b)
- He is all powerful (135:6-7)
- He is the protector/defender of His people (135:9-11)
- He is the provider for His people (135:12)
- He is eternal (no beginning or end) (135:13)
- He is just and therefore judges (135:14a)
- He has compassion on His people (135:14b)
- He was not created (135:15)
- He is not mute (135:16a)
- He is not blind (135:16b)
- He is not deaf (135:17a)
- He is not lifeless (135:17b)
- He does not bring death (135:18)
- How
- Song (135:3b)
- Knowing Him (135:4-18)
- Proclaiming Him to others (135:1-21)
- Who
- Psalmist (possibly David)
- To Israel (135:1b, 135:19-20a)
- To all belieers (135:2, 135:20b)
- About false gods, idols
- What: warning that "those who make (trust) them will be like them" (135:18
- When: No boundaries
- Where: No boundaries
- Why:
- Idols are less than God (135:5)
- Idols are made by man (135:15)
- Idols are senseless (135:16-17a)
- Idols are lifeless (135:17b)
- How: God forbids them (Exodus 20:3-5)
- Anything that we instill with power
- "Mother Nature"
- Astrology
- Luck/Superstition/Fate/Destiny
- Anything that we put before or equal to God
- Prophets, teachers
- Family, friends
- Dreams, goals, plans
- Money, success, acheievement
Monday, January 30, 2012
God works in mysterious ways...
Charlie is almost 3! It's hard to believe, but he, at least, is more than ready...Jason and I on the other hand aren't so sure.
Unable to prevent the inevitable, though, we have realized that it's time to start preparing him for some changes. The first of which will be the transition from the nursery to Sunday school at church. We know Charlie is ready for the coloring sheets and fun lessons...but we're not so sure about the 30 or so minutes in actual "church" before they release the kids to Sunday school. We tried once a couple months ago, but gave up after about 10 minutes, then Charlie notified us that he doesn't want to try again.
You see, while he isn't exactly "bad," we haven't done a good job of teaching Charlie to sit still, be quiet, etc...and we both absolutely hate having the disruptive kid, so it's time to practice.
Our plan was to gradually increase the amount of time he was in there with us over the next few weeks. Yesterday was day one -- and absolutely everything went our way!
First off, Charlie's beloved Jennifer was playing the piano. Then her dad, our pastor Darien, just so happened to incorporate Charlie's memory verse for this week, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and all your soul and all your mind," (Matthew 22:37) in the opening prayer, before leading us all in the Lord's Prayer, the first verse of which was Charlie's memory verse over Christmas.
Next, Jennifer's sister, Samantha, who also works in the nursery and is our favorite Chick-Fil-A employee, stood up to read a passage from the Bible. And if that weren't enough, for the first time since we've been attending GCF, one of the opening songs was Jesus Loves Me, which the three of us sing every night before bed.
Finally, Mr. Terry, who kindly allows Charlie to play in the trailer, get in his way and pepper him with a barrage of questions every Sunday afternoon during tear-down, stood up to speak to Charlie's delight, then released the kids to Sunday school.
I can't imagine a more tailor-made introduction to "big church" for our little man. Then to top it all off, Charlie arrived in the nursery just in time for snacks. Maybe "mysterious" ways was a misnomer, God works in perfect ways...
Unable to prevent the inevitable, though, we have realized that it's time to start preparing him for some changes. The first of which will be the transition from the nursery to Sunday school at church. We know Charlie is ready for the coloring sheets and fun lessons...but we're not so sure about the 30 or so minutes in actual "church" before they release the kids to Sunday school. We tried once a couple months ago, but gave up after about 10 minutes, then Charlie notified us that he doesn't want to try again.
You see, while he isn't exactly "bad," we haven't done a good job of teaching Charlie to sit still, be quiet, etc...and we both absolutely hate having the disruptive kid, so it's time to practice.
Our plan was to gradually increase the amount of time he was in there with us over the next few weeks. Yesterday was day one -- and absolutely everything went our way!
First off, Charlie's beloved Jennifer was playing the piano. Then her dad, our pastor Darien, just so happened to incorporate Charlie's memory verse for this week, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and all your soul and all your mind," (Matthew 22:37) in the opening prayer, before leading us all in the Lord's Prayer, the first verse of which was Charlie's memory verse over Christmas.
Next, Jennifer's sister, Samantha, who also works in the nursery and is our favorite Chick-Fil-A employee, stood up to read a passage from the Bible. And if that weren't enough, for the first time since we've been attending GCF, one of the opening songs was Jesus Loves Me, which the three of us sing every night before bed.
Finally, Mr. Terry, who kindly allows Charlie to play in the trailer, get in his way and pepper him with a barrage of questions every Sunday afternoon during tear-down, stood up to speak to Charlie's delight, then released the kids to Sunday school.
I can't imagine a more tailor-made introduction to "big church" for our little man. Then to top it all off, Charlie arrived in the nursery just in time for snacks. Maybe "mysterious" ways was a misnomer, God works in perfect ways...
Friday, January 27, 2012
Daddy-Charlie Time
As of today, it appears that a Fireman theme for Charlie's birthday was the right idea...let's just hope he's not over it by March!
He and Daddy spent yesterday evening building fire stations and putting out fires...who knew it could be so much fun?!
He and Daddy spent yesterday evening building fire stations and putting out fires...who knew it could be so much fun?!
Even Louie decided to help
Don't forget the Sound Effects!
Closing the Garage Doors
Off to the Fire!
Ladder's Up! Let's get that kitty out of that tree!
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Stumped
Charlie and Mommy are discussing this week's focal point over breakfast: the new peanut butter maker.
Mommy: Your Daddy has some good ideas, doesn't he? It never would have crossed Mommy's mind to get a peanut butter maker.
Charlie: Where did you get it?
Mommy: Well, we ordered it over the internet.
Charlie: What's the internet?
Mommy: Well... you know how you talk to BaBa and Grandma on the phone? Your voice goes over long wires in the ground to their house, so they can hear you. The internet is kind of the same, but it can send pictures and words and movies and songs and all sorts of stuff.
Charlie: Why?
Hmmm....good question. We seemed to survive just fine 20+ years ago...and had a lot more free-time, face-time, me-time, etc...The kid makes a good point...
Speaking of the Peanut Butter machine
Mommy: Your Daddy has some good ideas, doesn't he? It never would have crossed Mommy's mind to get a peanut butter maker.
Charlie: Where did you get it?
Mommy: Well, we ordered it over the internet.
Charlie: What's the internet?
Mommy: Well... you know how you talk to BaBa and Grandma on the phone? Your voice goes over long wires in the ground to their house, so they can hear you. The internet is kind of the same, but it can send pictures and words and movies and songs and all sorts of stuff.
Charlie: Why?
Hmmm....good question. We seemed to survive just fine 20+ years ago...and had a lot more free-time, face-time, me-time, etc...The kid makes a good point...
Speaking of the Peanut Butter machine
Mmmmm.....
Monday, January 23, 2012
Time to Celebrate
It's no secret that I'm something of a birthday addict...I can honestly think of nothing better than to spend an entire day just celebrating the fact that someone was born...so yesterday was one of my favorite days of the entire year -- Jason's birthday!
And I think that this year I finally found a card that explained exactly why I love birthdays so much...
So, we actually dragged it out through the weekend as we like to do, celebrating with friends Friday night at Ivory Moon (which we found out used to have dueling pianos, but now just has a fun band), then Jason spent Saturday oystering with his buddy Robert in preparation for an Oyster Roast down in West Ashley that night. We saved the best for last though, celebrating dinner with our favorite little man at 82 Queen downtown. Dinner was fabulous and Charlie was well-behaved...we really couldn't have asked for more.
Of course, my "best for last" may be different from Jason and Charlie's -- they are both beside themselves with anticipation for trying out Jason's "new" 1970 Salton Peanut Butter maker that he found on eBay...like father like son...
And I think that this year I finally found a card that explained exactly why I love birthdays so much...
"Your life gives me reason to celebrate...
Every day with you
is a day to celebrate God's goodness,
and especially on your birthday
I thank Him for creating you."
How could we not make it a big deal???
So, we actually dragged it out through the weekend as we like to do, celebrating with friends Friday night at Ivory Moon (which we found out used to have dueling pianos, but now just has a fun band), then Jason spent Saturday oystering with his buddy Robert in preparation for an Oyster Roast down in West Ashley that night. We saved the best for last though, celebrating dinner with our favorite little man at 82 Queen downtown. Dinner was fabulous and Charlie was well-behaved...we really couldn't have asked for more.
Of course, my "best for last" may be different from Jason and Charlie's -- they are both beside themselves with anticipation for trying out Jason's "new" 1970 Salton Peanut Butter maker that he found on eBay...like father like son...
Staying Warm
2 year old Photographer
"Sharing" Daddy's Key Lime Pie
The good life
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