homemade natural sports drink

Michael works outside all the time, and in the heat I wonder if he's drinking enough fluids. Gator*de and other such sport/electrolyte replacement drinks are rather expensive, AND full of nasty high fructose corn syrup, so I recently did a little research and came up with this recipe, which Michael likes a lot better than Gator*de.

2 cups water
2 cups 100% fruit juice (any flavor you like - recently we've used Juicy Juice Kiwi Strawberry)
1/4 tsp salt (important to replace electrolytes in the heat)

I personally reuse 32 oz containers, and I pour the water in, add the salt, shake to dissolve and then add the juice. A 12 oz can of concentrate or a 46 oz bottle of juice makes 3 32-oz containers. Perfect!! Make sure you store them in the fridge.

IF you spent $2.29 on a bottle of juice, it works out to around 76 cents per 32 oz bottle. But if cost is your primary concern, you should be able to get your juice quite a bit cheaper than that.

Also, I just did the nutrition breakdown. Per 8-oz serving (4 in a 32 oz bottle), Gator*de Rain in Berry Flavor has 50 cal, 110 mg sodium, 30 mg potassium, 14g carbs (14g sugars) and that sugar is all from HFCS! And no vitamins. My recipe, using Juicy Juice Kiwi Strawberry, per 8oz serving (still 4 in a 32 oz bottle) has 60 calories, 158mg sodium, 120mg potassium, 14.5g carbs (12g sugars) (naturally occuring fruit sugars) and 60% of the RDA of vitamin C.

Check out Rocks in My Dryer for more helpful tips!

The Name Game

Naming our babies - always so interesting. I am the pickiest namer out there, I am certain. The first name has to NOT be on the top 10 most popular, have a great meaning, not be associated with any unsavory characters in mine or Michael's life, and sound good with our last name. It also has to have more than one syllable and, for reasons I cannot explain (because I have no logical reason), cannot begin with the letter M. It also cannot have the "oo" sound in it.

We've got the girl name all settled. If we have a girl, her name will be Cadence Abigail. We've had that settled for quite some time as it was Aaron's alternate name. (you know, had he been a girl..we would not name a son that, obviously.)

Over on the sidebar are our choices so far for a boy's name. I'm not guaranteeing that the winner of the poll will be the name we end up with, but here's what we are thinking, and we would like to get some feedback. Mostly I would like to get some feedback, since I'm not sure on one HUGE point*.

Here are the contenders:

Evan Michael (meaning: Evan = God is gracious and Michael = "who is like God?")
Simon Gilead (meaning: Simon = God listens and Gilead = heap of testimony)

And variations on the same theme.

*The "huge point??" Are "Aaron" and "Evan" too similar? Will it sound like we're trying to build a super-cheesy singing group or a sparkly family magic act or something? Another problem with this name is that Evan is ranked #40...and going up...and, especially when paired with Michael, seems a bit common to me.

I really like the name Gilead, especially the meaning - how cool is it that someone's life be a heap of testimony to our God and His working - but it might be a little extreme for us, for a first name. Might be. I'm just not sure.

So, vote away...you've got a few more weeks to weigh in. Please vote, and please leave a comment. C'mon people, I need your input.

Works of God Monday

God is at work, here and all around the world. Seems like every day we hear about another tragedy or seemingly unjust circumstance that affects us either directly or indirectly. I'm so glad that God is good, all the time, and that His ways are NOT our ways.

I'd like to praise the Lord this morning for a few things. One, our independence!! I'm so grateful to live in a country that is free - this weekend's celebration and time with friends and even the freedom to attend church or go buy groceries or whatever we need to do without fear - a huge blessing from the Lord!

Two, God provided, through a friend, a ton of clothing and shoes for Aaron for the fall. I'd been having a hard time finding stuff at garage sales this summer and was wondering why...but God had it all planned out. I'll actually have to buy very, very little for him. Another huge blessing. (and thank you, friend!!)

Three, the wallet robbery incident could have been so much more serious. I'm thankful that we noticed it right away, and glad that more items were not taken from our van. Praise the Lord for His protection!!

So now it's your turn!! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

In the Mister Linky widget below, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

and there goes the neighborhood

This morning, we realized our van had been robbed. Missing? Two jars of loose change I use at garage sales and, unfortunately, Michael's wallet. Michael never leaves his wallet in the van. And of course, the one day he does, *poof* it disappears.

Thankfully, the thief only got $40 plus the change.

The officer that came over to file the police report said it was the first of such incidents in our neighborhood. He also said it was probably just some kids looking for cash. I pray he was right, and we won't ever have identity theft issues. However it goes, it means canceling our credit cards and our debit card and replacing all the pertinent and valuable information stored in a wallet. Not to mention the actual wallet.

So...Thief, I have two questions...

Why us? We have the junkiest house on the block, no questions asked. The yuckiest yard, almost the oldest vehicles on the block. I've always been so secure with the thought of thieves avoiding us due to our obvious lack of steal-able stuff.

And, why couldn't you have just taken the cash and left the wallet? Hmm???

a bit obsessive

So three posts in one day might be overkill, but I need tell this story. Today.

I canceled my OB appointment for this morning. It was a horrible time for us, schedule-wise and I have another visit scheduled for the 15th. And I must admit that the idea of a 40 minute drive each way with a 15-20 minute wait and a 5 minute appointment WITH a toddler in tow whose nap would be non existent did not really appeal to me. Especially since I'm feeling good and doing fine. Especially since I have another (more important!!!) meeting scheduled for this afternoon and we would have to go right to that one after the OB appointment. (notice, if you will, the lack of nap)

I felt no remorse, no guilt, had no second thoughts.

So I get this call from the mature, old school nurse who asked me to reschedule for the 8th and wants me to come in at the exact same time. Whereupon I tell her that is not going to work, whereupon she tells me in no uncertain terms that I'm putting myself at risk by waiting until the 15th. "Especially" she added, "since it has already been more than two weeks since your last appointment."

Imagine the hairs on my neck standing on end. The reason today's appointment was not scheduled earlier is that there were no openings when I scheduled my next appointment. It was an office blunder.

And what are they going to do this time that is so all-fired important that it can't wait another week? Check to make sure I'm still measuring correctly? Check my blood pressure again? Listen to the baby's heart rate again? Then tell me that everything looks great?

"You know" I said with an auditory smile, "I'd really just prefer to wait until the 15th. It's only one more week." And she repeated her earlier argument.

PLEASE NOTE: This is the same nurse who, on my first visit to this new doc, rattled off a list of scary and invasive tests that they were planning to do and then said cheerily, "Now let me take your blood pressure!"

Since she repeated her argument, I repeated mine (that's only fair, right?) "You know" I said, with a little less of a smile, "I'd really just prefer to wait until the 15th. It's only one more week."

Silence. I could almost hear crickets chirping.

"All right dear, you take care of yourself now. I will make a note of this and we will see you on the fifteenth."

Knowing how medical records are kept, I wonder what "make a note of this" means. I wonder if this will show up like the previous "go against the flow" medical decisions I've made. "Patient refused to reschedule" or "Patient refused adequate medical care" or something to that effect. I'm sure on paper I appear to be the world's most difficult patient.

Really, dear nurse, you could have saved yourself a call and me a momentary spike in my blood pressure.

I won't be eating THAT again!

I know there is a lot of sugar in strawberry jam. I knew it when I spread it on my english muffin for breakfast. But I really didn't expect the child inside to enjoy it so much.

We've got another "happy hallelujah" dancer, folks. The likes of which this world has never seen. I am telling you, we've had a dancing baby for the last 22 minutes solid. And this baby is running out of room.

I guess maybe I should just stick with fresh strawberries.

Now the real question is, I wonder why ice cream doesn't have the same effect.

they're having fun, apparently

Be sure to check out my mom & dad's blog for some of their vacation photos and a great video clip.

maybe it's just Wednesdays...

So Aaron's finally (sadly) making the transition from two naps to one. I know, I know...I am very, VERY blessed, and I need to be grateful for the 23 months of multiple naps and not whine. I'm not whining.

But Aaron is. He wants to get out of his bed now.

Last Wednesday, no naps. None. And a very grumpy boy ensued. We are on track for that again today. Thankfully, no evening midweek service tonight - it was canceled. We are spending some quality time with our friends who are moving away, instead. I'm taking the pack n play.

Thankfully, Aaron has been quietly playing in his bed for the last hour, so I was able to get a little work in. Maybe the quiet playtime chased the grumpies away. Maybe he'll surprise me and conk out this afternoon. Maybe I can tire him out with a rousing game of "running errands"

Ah, life. Full of maybes. Full of possibilities. Full of opportunities.

More Family Photos

Sunday night after church we had a little photo time with Mom & Dad so they could take some current photos to Oregon with them for Nate & Lissa. Here are some of our favorites from our little shoot. I especially love the ones with my parents - capturing laughter on camera is a beautiful and rare delight. Aren't my parents cuties? I sure wish we could be nearer to Michael's family!

(hey Kara! Look! You can see my baby belly!! This is what I look like 31 weeks pregnant!)

Works of God Monday

OK, well then. It's 7:04pm and I am just now getting a chance to post for Works of God Monday. Oh, brother.

It's been a busy, busy day. God is DEFINITELY at work here at our house. This week, a lot has happened. God is good, His provision never ceases to amaze us. He provided a substantial portion of the money needed to pay off one of many large and unexpected bills. Praise HIS name!!

So it's your turn!! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

In the Mister Linky widget below, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

yard sales. bounty.

I love summer for about 4 reasons.

1. mom and dad don't have school, and can spend time with us.
2. swimming pools, located outdoors.
3. fresh produce.
4. garage sales.

Other summer things don't thrill me. I am particularly averse to sweating.

Today we brought home some major bounty. I spent about $15 and got...

For Aaron:
4 pairs of pants for fall
a polo shirt
a sweater for fall
2 sets of pj's
cloth training pants, 7 pair (we know the people, don't panic!)
6 white undershirts for fall
5 Franklin Turtle videos
2 Usborne books! Woo Hoo!
4 other books
2 wooden puzzles
a fireman hat
a tiny beach ball

For Jenny:
2 maternity tanks
1 maternity shirt
2 super cute jumpers/sundresses for after pregnancy
a filmy white Gap elbow sleeve length button down shirt
Walk Away the Pounds videos 1 & 2

and a very refreshing glass of lemonade, served by the cutest little boy ever who, as I was driving away, yelled, "BYYYYYEEEE! MY NAME IS ETHAN!!!!" oh, the cuteness.

I said no to...
About 13 thousand adorable baby girl items.
A Little Tikes Play Set
Multiple things that Aaron thought were Really Cool
Toys that take up too much space

What do you like about summer? Hit any great garage sales lately??

the days, they be a-flyin'

WHEW! Does anyone else feel like their weeks just fly by? Our house has been hopping lately with all the activity of summer and church, family and friends.

Speaking of friends, our really good friends are indeed moving. In eighteen days, apparently. (Can you tell I am still in denial??) I am feeling great about God's leading and direction in their lives, but selfishly I wish we could just clone them and send the clones on, keeping the originals for ourselves. California is so very far away.

And, I remind myself, we are here on earth for a relatively short period of time. How incredible it will be to be able to spend all of eternity in worship and awe of our Great God together.

So I am thinking about time flying lately - eighteen days until friends move away, ten weeks until the due date of our second child, and just over a month until Aaron turns two. So much to do, so little time. Here's what I was thinking about nearly two years ago...

I wonder how long it will be until Christ's return? Lord, may I be effective in making the best use of the time!

clover in the flowerbeds

So I've got a minor/major problem. It's minor because it's relatively so, in the scope of all of life and eternity. It's major because I can't get rid of it.

Clover, in my tiny front flowerbed. My flowerbed is choking.

I've been working with my pal Google to come up with an answer to the problem. Apparently, t's a strange type of clover, not the white kind that is supposedly so great for the soil, or the heart shaped leaf kind that has yellow flowers and long banana like seed pods that really isn't clover at all but something with a fancypants botanical name.

My clover is in that picture above. I've just pulled what seems to be a million pounds of it out of my flowerbed. That second photo is just a very small sample of what I've pulled out. It's vicious, and stubborn and greedy. Very greedy. It wants to choke out my on-purpose flowers.

It's in the lawn, too, but I honestly don't care about that. It's green, and that is what counts at our address.

I do care if it kills my flowers. So I want to get it out of my flowerbed. But after pulling and pulling last night, I realized it was going to get the better of me. I thought perhaps I'd go to some sort of garden store to find answers. But then I thought maybe one of my blogger friends would know.

So get your green thumbs on this, folks! How can I get rid of my clover issue without killing my flowers? I'm particularly concerned with the spring bulbs I've got planted there - tulips, grape hyacinth, etc. And I'm concerned about ruining the soil with too many chemicals. Not concerned enough that I wouldn't use chemicals, mind you. I really am growly at the clover.

a great opportunity

Go over to my friend Rachel's blog for a great opportunity to share (almost a cup of cold water) with a very awesome cause. Rachel, you are a huge encouragement to me!!!

Frugal Food Series

If you haven't already, please go check out the Frugal Food Series. This week is particularly interesting - Bean recipes. Already covered, eggs and tuna. I always like to find new recipes.

Works of God Monday

Psalm 62:8 - "Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah."

I shared a great story on Friday of God's provision for our family - working through my forgetfulness - and I hope you've been able to read it. God is at work in so many ways at our house. I see it often in the little things - this weekend, I was able to buy ground beef for 98 cents per pound due to the fact that the "freshness" was almost expired. What a blessing - I bought 7 lbs and won't have to think about ground beef for a long while. It's in our freezer, separated into manageable amounts.

Our God daily holds us up, especially in times of discouragement (which, if you haven't guessed, is something we're going through now) We have FULL confidence in the faithfulness of our God, and I can't wait to share with you how HE works out the details. And when He does, I will share the details! Until then, we wait on Him. These are times when God is working, when He will show His power. It's never been about me and my timing, anyway. God is good. Let's praise Him for His wonderful works!!

First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

In the Mister Linky widget below, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

If you don't have a blog, feel free to leave your works of God testimony in the comment section!

just when you think all is lost...

I laugh at myself for my stupidity. Often.

Lately a lot of "things" have been hitting us, and hard. I know God is provider, and I know that our little tiny needs are a drop in the bucket when compared with His resources. He has promised to provide for all our needs, and He will. He is good, and He is faithful. I choose to believe that even when I can't see how everything will work out. I don't need to know the end, I just need to trust.

Today, I got a tangible reminder. I found $50 in my wallet, stuffed into one of the slots that holds the plastic. Who knows when I put it there - all I know is that God allowed me to find it today, when I needed the encouragement.

*hitting self on head*

trusting

Our friend Tim (who seldom updates his blog nowadays) has a very talented family, one member being a sister who wrote a song several years ago. It keeps coming to mind today, when my perspective is wanting to shift my thoughts away from God's Sovereignty, away from believing that everything God puts in our lives is to highlight His faithfulness, and His promises!!

Here's the chorus of the song:
Trust Him when dark clouds assail you
Trust Him when your faith is small
Trust Him when to simply trust Him
Seems the hardest thing of all.

Thanks, Charity, for writing that song. Thanks for allowing God to use you - today, your song kicks my brain into gear, reminding me to do right, to trust God at all times.

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

today in the garden

These pictures were taken this morning at my parents' house. Aaron was eager to explore and not so eager for photo opportunities. Ah, well...makes me thankful for "continuous frame" options!

encouraged.

Psalm 42

As a deer pants for flowing streams,
so pants my soul for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
When shall I come and appear before God?
My tears have been my food
day and night,
while they say to me all the day long,
"Where is your God?"
These things I remember,
as I pour out my soul:
how I would go with the throng
and lead them in procession to the house of God
with glad shouts and songs of praise,
a multitude keeping festival.
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.
My soul is cast down within me;
therefore I remember you
from the land of Jordan and of Hermon,
from Mount Mizar.
Deep calls to deep
at the roar of your waterfalls;
all your breakers and your waves
have gone over me.
By day the LORD commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
I say to God, my rock:
"Why have you forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?"
As with a deadly wound in my bones,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me all the day long,
"Where is your God?"
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.

bootstraps

You know your day is going to be interesting when one of the first tasks you attempt is trying to put the lid back on the cinnamon sugar and the container goes flying, spilling the contents evenly throughout the kitchen...and that reduces you to tears. The sobbing, gasping, uncontrollable kind of tears. While your toddler looks on in stunned amazement.

I mean, c'mon, pull yourself together, lady!!

Yes, folks, the pregnancy hormones are in FULL SWING. One nap later, I am able to laugh at myself. I tell you what, hormones are a crazy, crazy thing.

I have an OB appointment today, and midwife visit on Thursday, so I'm looking forward to those reports of progress! I can't believe it's a mere 11 weeks until I am considered full term. I am thinking welcoming thoughts to encourage our child to come whenever the time is right.

I was talking to a local friend yesterday, who recently added child #2 to the family, about things that they are adjusting to with baby #2. I asked her, and I'm asking you - what adjustments did you NOT expect? What were you surprised by? What words of wisdom can you offer?

I know you can never be really prepared, as each child and family dynamic is different. But I would love to hear from all you moms with "2 or more" experience about some practical ways to make the adjustment smoother. Things you wish you had done, things that worked well, etc.

Works of God Monday

Thank you all for praying for me; I know you did. This weekend has been interesting, each day a little better as far as pain goes, and I know that I will remember the past week for years to come with "fondness" in the most opposite sense of the word. Well, opposite except for the lessons learned about God and His faithfulness.

My teeth are feeling significantly better. I still have minor sinus pain (and headaches) and a sore jaw, but I will take that ANY DAY over the agony of the past week. It is all a bit of a blur.

God IS GOOD, all the time. He gives grace and uses people at the right place and time to help us. He will not give us more than we can handle. I know this more deeply now. Praise the Lord for using pain and painful situations in our lives to make us more like HIM!!

OK, now it's your turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

In the Mister Linky widget below, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

If you don't have a blog, feel free to leave your works of God testimony in the comment section!

Woo HOO

I would like to praise the LORD for friends who just so happen to be oral surgeons and who have access to powerful tooth numbing drugs (shots are sometimes so, so good). These work for up to 12 hours.

happy hallelujah dance, anybody?

a what?

Just got back from a root canal. Going to sleep while the Novocaine is still keeping me numb. Blessed relief, even if it turns out to be temporary.

Note: it was temporary. Please continue to pray. Pray that somebody figures out what is going on. Pray that I don't lose my sanity.

"hard" times

For the past week, I've been miserable. At least, part of me has. Last Friday, I began having pain in my sinuses on the right side of my face that created immense pressure and pain in my teeth on that side of my face. I tried everything natural I could possibly think of, and finally caved in on Sunday and went to Urgent Care in hopes that an antibiotic would remedy the situation.

Fast forward to Tuesday. Still no relief, and the antibiotic is making me sick. Being pregnant, all I can take for the pain is Tylenol. Oh, that really cuts the pain. (note the sarcasm) My family doctor changed my prescription to something stronger. Tuesday night, the pain increases. I am starting to wonder if this pain is also related to my actual teeth. I am starting to seriously doubt my sanity, my judgment is impaired, I wonder if it is time to turn in my driver's license.

I have a pretty high pain threshold, but this pain is pretty bad. Most nights, I haven't had more than a few minutes of sleep at a time - the pain in my teeth is waking me up in the night. Apply hot compress, feel some relief, return to bed.

Wednesday night, I decide an emergency visit to the dentist is in order. Maybe the problem is a combination sinus and tooth problem. The dentist is open at 8. So, more Tylenol and off to bed. I am now awake, at 4:02 am, waiting for my second dose of Tylenol to kick in. This is the second or third time I am awake, I've lost track of these sleepless nights. Will you "count blessings instead of sheep" with me?

There are so many people who deal with severe, chronic pain on a daily basis. I've had very few times in my life that I've had to deal with something this severe. This is blessing #1.

Yesterday was an extraordinary day with Aaron. We had so much fun, and he is the sweetest boy. This is blessing #2. He slept until 9, which allowed me to get in a little extra sleep despite this pain. Extra sleep is good, especially when there is extra pain. This is blessing #3.

My husband has been wonderfully supportive, offering back rubs and foot rubs and telling me not to worry about certain household chores that I've been too distracted by pain to accomplish. I'm so blessed to have an understanding spouse. Blessing #4.

I'm learning to trust God in the middle of this tiny little "hard" time. This is the character training, the workout for my faith and practical theology that I've been needing. Blessing #5.

I am more thankful for things like antibiotics, modern medicine, dental care, sleep. More thankful is good. Blessing #6.

This week, there has been a shortage of at-home work for me, which I originally thought was a disaster, but now...well, I'm definitely glad God knows what I need and can handle. Blessing #7.

Well, the Tylenol is finally kicking in. God is always good, all the time. My blessings are coming to mind more than ever now, but it is time to return to bed. Please pray for me, that I will be a soft, mold able lump of clay in my excellent Potter's hands.

Has God been revealing Himself to you lately - by "hard times" or by blessings? Has He been teaching you lessons? Can you share them? Will you? I'd love to hear!

Works of God Monday

Here is a neat little story of a blessing that God surprised me with this week. Aaron and I went shopping to find some gifts for Michael's birthday. We had a coupon from our credit card company that stated if we spent $10 on our credit card at Penney's we could get $10 off. This is one of my favorite deals at Penney's - I've gotten so many free things when they do this!

Well, we went to go check it out, and as we were moseying around the store trying to decide what to buy, a lady stopped me and asked if I was shopping at Penney's that day. She explained that she had a $10 off a $10 purchase coupon and that she hadn't been able to find anything she needed and would I like it? YES!! This coupon was even better since I wouldn't have to use the credit card at all! I thanked her and we went shopping in earnest! We found a nice shirt for Michael on the clearance rack - I thought it was $12.99 and was pumped to find out it was an additional percent off.

We paid 41 cents. Praise the Lord for His provision, even of "extras" like birthday presents!!

OK, now it's your turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

In the Mister Linky widget below, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

If you don't have a blog, feel free to leave your works of God testimony in the comment section!

Happy Birthday

Isn't it amazing how God works things out and gives us so much more than we knew we ever needed? This is what He did when He brought Michael & I together. Michael is the perfect fit for me, and I am more amazed every day at how much more I love him. He is godly and wonderful and makes me laugh so hard that...well, you know. Really hard.

I don't say it often enough, but thanks to my wonderful husband - you are hard working, honest, loyal, patient, others-focused, and much much more! You are my very best friend. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Life is never, ever dull with you. (and that is a very good thing)

limbo

Sometimes, I'm in limbo because of my forgetfulness. Sometimes, it's because hugely inconvenient things happen and I'm not sure what to do about them, and I get overwhelmed. Lately, it's been both. A lot of little things adding up to make me wonder what in the world is going on.

Part of me always wants to be six, to have life be a series of happy and flowery walks in the park, visits to school (ALL DAY!!) free housing, clothing, and anything else I need, riding my little bike with a basket. I don't want to lose my six year old optimism, for certain. Or that childlike, unwavering trust.

I'm trying to hang in there, trying to figure out what lesson I'm supposed to be learning here, but it's tough, I'm not gonna lie. Thankfully, my God knows what is ahead. And He is completely trustworthy. He gives GRACE. It's definitely not natural for me to relinquish any part of my perceived control. But I know who God is, what He has done, and what He has promised. And that is enough.

Works of God Monday

ACK! I was so excited to wake up this morning with energy that I started cleaning the house and doing laundry, and before I knew it, the time had gotten away from me and now it is noon! Happy Monday! (and sorry for the delay in posting this)

That "waking up with energy" is my work of God testimony this morning. This pregnancy has been a little rougher than the last, and I feel like I've had to let a lot of things slide around here just to keep up with our lives in general. I am thankful that God gave strength this morning to enable me to catch up on some much needed household chores that have been neglected for far too long.

It's your turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

If you've never used Mister Linky before, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

If you don't have a blog, feel free to leave your works of God testimony in the comment section!

Prizes! Winner!

Thanks to all of you who entered the haiku challenge! How fun to get so many entries! I am not a haiku expert by any means, nor do I write it on a regular basis. So in order to be completely fair, I cheated. (And if you need a quotable quote, feel free to take that one, ha ha) Here is what I mean: I cheated wherein I printed out your comments, cut out each haiku and drew one as the winner instead of just picking my favorite.

The winner will receive 2 of my favorite things! A one-pot size sample of Seattle's Best Vanilla Bean coffee, and a tube of the best lip balm ever. This stuff is great - all natural & handmade by my friend Ashley who also makes goat's milk soap from goats they own and milk themselves. The name of her company is Kid Acres, how cute is that? She made this particular flavor (tastes like orange creamsicle, but has no sweetener) at my request, and I always keep a few extra tubes around for gifts. She is not selling her products online yet, but I hope to talk her into it in the near future. Seriously, she makes really great stuff.

So, drumroll please...The winner is...

SARAH GWIN! and here is her haiku:

Two-year-old dressed self
(Not worried about matching)
Fourteen times today

Sarah, email me your address and your prize is on it's way! Congratulations and thank you again to all who participated!!

before and after

It's haircut week at the Muth house. Here is Aaron, before (after breakfast - milk is a great volumizing hair product, apparently) and after (clean and shorn). *sigh*

He's growing up, and I am feeling older by the minute. I about had a heart attack when I realized today that there are only 13 weeks until I'm full term with our second. That is not very long.

last call!

If anyone still wants to enter the haiku challenge, be sure to do so before midnight on Thursday! I'll announce the winner (and the prize, of course) on Friday morning!

she said it!

Sometimes when I get the "AFA action alerts" in my email, I'm very glad to be informed. Other times, I just roll my eyes. Today, I got one about Subway's essay contest and it was one of the latter type of reactions. Then I read this. My thoughts, exactly. But more eloquent. And from the voice of experience, so even better.

What are your thoughts?

Works of God Monday

This Memorial Day, I am choosing to praise God for the amazing sacrifice of the men & women in our armed forces who have given their lives to protect our freedoms. I am thankful that God is at work in the world and that He calls people to serve Him in a variety of ways. THANK YOU armed forces!! And thank you, families of the servicemen & women for the gigantic sacrifice you make every day.

God is at work in the world, but also in our family! We've been blessed immensely with a job for Michael in construction - something that we never expected but something that has been a great asset and learning experience for him. And, despite the struggling economy, we have seen no setback in hours, and a busy summer is planned for his little company (the boss plus 2 employees). This October will mark 5 years with a great Christian boss and it has been such a huge blessing for us. God has also been providing side jobs for Michael lately, which has been another unexpected source of income. It looks very possible to meet our goal of being debt free very soon! Woo Hoo!

It's your turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

If you've never used Mister Linky before, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

If you don't have a blog, feel free to leave your works of God testimony in the comment section!

haiku, anyone?

pained by this kicking
well deserved, but not from you
dear child within, quit.

Anyone ever written haiku? It's pretty simple, just a 5-7-5 syllabic pattern in the lines. I think I had to write some in high school - or maybe in college. I can't remember.

Will you write one for me in the comment section? Pretty please?

I'll pick a winner, really I will. There might even be a prize. Think of it as a "Happy Memorial Day Weekend" activity. A vacation for your brain. It won't even cost you any gas money. Unless, perish the thought, you are reading this blog while driving.

all wishes granted

You'll never guess what I came across today. Oh, yes. My very own baby naming genie...and he can be yours, too.

Of course, some of the suggestions are laughable (Sheldon Brendon Muth? I don't think so...)

welcome to the third trimester

Muth child #2 welcomed me into our third trimester together with a swift kick to the ribcage. "Good morning, dear mother!" I think that today, anyway, the baby is in the head-down position.

I read yesterday that my uterus is the size of a soccer ball this week. What a lovely thought. Actually it was quite comforting - no wonder my belly feels so huge! I wonder how big it gets by the end of pregnancy if it's already that big. Yikes.

Aaron is welcoming the third trimester, too, but with a nasty bout of allergies or a random cold. We are both still in jammies this morning and he's been hanging out on the couch with his Cheerios and water. Poor little guy.

this post

this post made me weepy today, no surprises there. I've been thinking through possible changes for our family with the coming little one, and when I ran across this article by a mommy of 12, well, my pregnancy hormones just served to increase the tear supply!

here is a little excerpt:

Overnight he has had to become the Big Boy, the Older Brother, the Independent One. His life is one of different prepositions than before: he sits next to me instead of on me, he walks beside me instead of riding in my arms. He accepts love from siblings and Daddy more readily than before, and these have all worked their will inside him, transforming him from baby to little man.

Aaronisms

I always thought "kiss it and make it all better" was a concept introduced by moms to their kiddos. However, I have had to rethink this.

Aaron has been coming to me lately when he has banged his fingers or toes and holding them out and saying, "momma? kiss?" and when I do he says "all better!" and gets this gigantic smile on his face.

I have no idea where he picked up this little habit, nor do I really care, because I think it's absolutely adorable. I'm really enjoying watching him grow, especially through this age where he's learning new things daily and talking in much more fluid sentences. He is quite the talker.

On the down side, his diction is a little questionable. There are a few words he says that sound like other words. When we are in public, I have to quickly say it back to him to avoid the misconception that we teach our child to curse or say things that are quite inappropriate. It is sometimes a tad embarrassing, but overall we just laugh and enjoy this funny little man and this fun little stage.

He's rarely without his hat these days, even when he's decked out in his pj's. It's the first thing he asks for (after daddy) when he wakes up and the last thing to put away before bed. He loves his daddy so much and wants to wear a hat like "daddy's hat" - he's started asking for "Broncos hat" and I really need to wash the thing, it's getting pretty dirty.

My mom says that each stage is more fun than the last, and I'm starting to agree with her. I'm really enjoying my toddler (even as I look forward to another newborn). What is/was your favorite stage in childhood, or is it different with each kiddo?

Works of God Monday

Does God care about little things? I would submit that He does! The Bible says that He knows how many hairs are on our heads, and that He provides for all our needs. He even surprises us with little blessings.

This week was a busy, busy week. I am beginning to long for the end of May in hopes that the summer slows down a little bit and we can take some deep breaths before baby #2 arrives! In all the scurrying about, I kept forgetting to bring my "fridge list" to the grocery store - I usually write down the things that I am almost out of or completely out of on a pad on the fridge. (my other items I type out when I do menu planning) I went to the grocery store TWICE this week, which is unusual, and both times did an ok job of remembering what I needed to buy - EXCEPT I kept forgetting to buy Lawry's seasoned salt, which at our house is a seasoning that we just don't care to run out of.

Yesterday I decided to stop by the store and buy a paper in the afternoon, and I decided to grab a canister of Lawry's, too. It "just so happened" to be on sale - BOGO! I was delighted and was praising the Lord for His little blessing, even as I was forgetful and absentminded!

It's your turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about how God has been at work in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

If you've never used Mister Linky before, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

If you don't have a blog, feel free to leave your works of God testimony in the comment section!

God's Plan

It’s good for me to have a little wake up call every once in awhile. On Tuesday, I wrote a blog post about what happens when God works and it is different from what I wanted or expected. I got a great question from Amanda, basically, “What do you mean when you say that God has a plan for me?” It is such a privilege to be able to have a shot at answering your question, Amanda. Thanks again for asking it. I had a great time (and a brain-stretching time) trying to condense everything.

Speaking of condensing, I didn't do a very good job with that. I came up with just over 3 pages in Word. So I decided that instead of typing all of that out here, I would just link to the document.

So here it is! I hope it helps. (I pray it is accurate - please, study it out for yourself!!) Please comment with discernment and in love, keeping in mind that the readers all have different backgrounds, and that we are all at different places in our walks with the Lord. You can contact me personally here

Happy Saturday, Everyone!

it's coming...

So for all who are wondering when I'm going to post an answer to Tuesday's question, it's coming. It's a long answer. And I'm still working on it. Please be patient!!

While you're waiting, head to Dunkin' Donuts for a free iced coffee. And McDonald's for an almost-free dinner. If you can resist the urge to buy fries, that is.

Muth baby #2 is coming, too, right on schedule so far. Monday was an appointment with the world's fastest doctor, and there was great news - my blood pressure was fabulous (90/60) and he's checking to see how we can get the most accurate readout for my 28 week blood glucose test with a diabetes-like finger prick. Looks like I'm going to squeak by without lab work, hallelujah!

Tuesday was my first prenatal visit with our midwife, and I was much encouraged to talk with her and experience a different kind of care. My heart longs for a home birth, so right now we are praying even more fervently that God would make His plan for this birth known to us. I am confident that He will. We appreciate your prayers for us, too!

If you haven't yet, vote on your best guess on the gender of baby #2. The only clue-like info I've got is that the doc counted 148 beats per minute on the doppler, and the midwife counted 156 on the fetoscope while baby was moving around fiestily. My medical records indicate that Aaron's heartbeat was 149 at this point in the pregnancy. Happy Voting!

for the grandmas

Some photos of the recent events
Aaron relaxing on the big ball,
Us at the junior high youth activity (we fit in well, obviously)
Aaron, a vvvvery big boy, coloring
and
putting the crayons back
(he's quite particular)

When God is at Work

What do you do when God WORKS and you don't really like it? I'm one hundred percent certain that it means the problem is with me and my thinking, and not with God and His working.

Here's just one example:

For the past couple of months some of our closest friends here have been considering what God would have them do about moving. Not across town or even to another town nearby. No. Across the country. Pretty much as far away from Michigan as you can get and still be in the US. God has definitely been working to show them each step in this process, and it's not like it's a done deal - they are still praying, and I am still in complete and total denial. Friends like this just don't happen every day. I have to be honest. I. don't. want. them. to. move. But God might, and I need to be okay with that.

So here is where the practical part of my theology, my view of God, is supposed to kick in, and I'm supposed to start asking the right kind of questions.

What do I know to be true about God? He is Sovereign, He has a plan, it is for our good, it will give Him glory, He wants us to trust Him, He loves us, He knows what is best. He has promised to lead us, never leave us, give grace, give wisdom, provide, and the list goes on. (I'm already reassured, how about you?)

What do I know to be true about myself? I do not know best, I am not perfect, am not eternally minded, have no idea what God's long-term plans are, cannot be trusted, have a heart that is sinful and selfish. I am helpless, without wisdom, weak, needy.

Sounds like the perfect fit. As long as I trust Him. And guess what? There are more things God is doing that, at first look, are "uncomfortable" for me. But He is at work in my heart, too. He gives more grace, more strength for me to trust Him in every situation, every day. I cannot handle the daunting task of yielding my will, of trusting, but God can. He is working - in our friends, in this specific situation, and in my heart.

I am learning. Slowly, but richly - beyond knowing in my head. I am growing in grace. I am growing in the knowledge of my Lord and Savior, a knowledge that comes by experience, by tasting to see that the Lord is GOOD. And I am learning to praise Him, to bless His name, His works, at all times.

works of God Monday

I can't wait to share what God is doing in my life, but I can't at the moment. I'm feeling ill and have about ten million things to get done, so will post my works of God testimony either later today or later this week, depending on how this day goes.

For now, it's YOUR turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about what God has been doing in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

If you've never used Mister Linky before, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

for moms (or really, anyone)

I am subscribed to Joy in the Journey in my Google Reader and have really enjoyed reading about this missionary family (I do not know them) and the things that God has done in their lives. Today, there is an especially good post about dealing with guilt.

Joy is writing from a mom's perspective, and it is true that we as moms deal with it, but I think even on a more basic level, women deal with it. A lot. The "coulda-shoulda-woulda's," as I have heard them called, can really feed a destructive pattern of thinking that will take away our joy and leave us feeling defeated. (which of course, Satan really loves) But enough from me. Go read the post!

this joy is mine

Behold, one of Michael's favorite memories. He remembers mom reading to him and his siblings. And he remembers this book. (Which actually is saying a lot. He doesn't remember a whole lot of specifics from his childhood like this)

Around the time Aaron was born, Mom & Mary gathered up all the children's books with his name in them and sent them to us. What a treasure that box was! There are at least 20 Little Golden Books that say "This book belongs to Michael Muth" and that alone is enough to bring a smile to my face

We've been reading books right before nap times with Aaron, and just recently have begun to read the Little Golden Books mom sent so long ago. Today at naptime, Aaron said "Read book!? Timmy?" and was really excited when I grabbed it off the shelf. I am thrilled that I get to be a part of the tradition and read to our little boy from his daddy's childhood books.

I do have to admit I get a little choked up when I read the last page, "Timmy is a big boy. You are big too! Timmy can do lots of things. So can you."

Wednesdays are Crazy Days

Does everyone have a day of the week that is an automatic no for extras? I can do errands, watch peoples' kids, get hair cuts, set up doctor visits and cook up a storm any day of the week.

Except Wednesdays. We.Are.Always.Busy.On.Wednesday.

It has made life much better since I started saying "no" to Wednesday extras. For us, it means that Michael comes home early from work in order to finish up the final touches on Wednesday night's youth group events, go over his message, and still have enough time to eat dinner, get a shower, and all of us be out the door at 5:30 to pick up the kids we take with us. During the day I finish up the mundane parts of the Wednesday program - the papers we send home with the kids, the agendas for the workers for the following weeks, adding up the points, updating the youth group blog (on occasion) and making dinner MUCH earlier.

And, Something Unexpected always happens on Wednesday of all days. Of course I try to be flexible and work through it. But saying no has been the best decision for us this year. It has made such a difference.

What day of the week is your busiest? What makes it that way? And, of course most importantly, what is your "go to" dinner for those Crazy Days?

Works of God Monday

Here are just some of the works of God on behalf of the Muth family this past week. (I couldn't possibly pick just one, so I decided to go with a short list of a few...)

1. The birth of a new niece, Kiersten Joy! Congrats to Tim & Sarah Valiante and big brother Micah. We are so excited for you all, and grateful to God for the miracle of life, and a safe delivery.

2. God provided TWO free window air conditioning units for us via Freecycle. Do I need to go into detail about what a blessing that will be to my big pregnant self this summer? (I didn't think that would be necessary.) Talk about a happy hallelujah moment.

3. Through the wonder and excitement of garage sales, God provided a replacement door for our outside back entrance for $35. For those of you not familiar with home renovation supplies, that is a significant savings. As an added blessing, it was just what we had been looking for.

4. When I was pregnant with Aaron, I bought a crib bumper at a garage sale and re-covered it but I could still see the old design peeking through, plus it wasn't quite long enough to go all the way around the crib, so I planned to recover it again with chocolate brown corduroy and lengthen it, too. Also on the list of things to do before the baby is born was buy more crib sheets (we just have 2 total that fit our mattresses) and another waterproof pad or two. This weekend God provided a like-new bumper in the perfect shade of green, three more crib sheets and a waterproof pad for $12. Woo HOO!

Now it's YOUR turn!! Let's encourage one another in the Lord! First, blog about what God has been doing in your life this week - it can be a physical provision, a spiritual lesson learned, an opportunity to share with others, anything that was an evidence of God at work in you. Then, follow these directions:

If you've never used Mister Linky before, simply type your name in the top box, or a short description of the work that God has done, and then in the second box, paste the link from your specific "Works of God Monday" post. PLEASE make sure the link is to a specific post on your blog that is a personal testimony of how God has been at work in your life in the past week. Feel free to use the image from the top of this post if you like. Just right click the image and choose "save image as" then upload it into your post. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, and spread the word to your blogging friends!

appreciated

I found this link for an adorable teacher appreciation gift over at MomAdvice, and applauded! Out loud, for no one to hear but me. Hurray, any teacher could use this!! And it isn't apple-y or scented or something to use in the tub or another candle! (again, this is one of those things I'm linking in order to find later)

And for all you parents of currently school aged children, check out this idea that blessed a teacher friend of mine. You've got just enough time to organize for the year-end teacher appreciation! You could do the same idea with a summery flowerpot with construction paper or silk flowers and the gift cards attached to the stems.

and no, the photo is not related. But these two are, and aren't they cute?

faux pas

Thank you, Mrs. Marsteller. You, teacher of secondary level English, have continued to make me aware of grammatical hilarity, even beyond your years as my instructor. For that (and other things) I will be forever indebted.

Last Friday, calling for work, I heard:

Hi, you've reached the voice mail of _____. Your call is important to me, and I'm sorry I was unable to answer. Please be sure to leave me your name and number and I'd be happy to return it. (name? the number? I was laughing so hard I could barely leave a message)

And last month, on the way to the OB office we passed a florist. The sign said this:

THINK SPRING BOKAY $9.95 (are you SERIOUS?!)