Life is never dull, right? I feel like that is a theme for our family. Never dull. I think I might be happy with dull, even for just one day. So, here's what's been happening this past week...I'll try to tell you in the order of events:
1. Yesterday I woke up feeling great, just a normal day. After Julie left for school I started to not feel well. I ended up doubled over with severe stomach pains all morning. I debated on whether to go to the ER, or call my doctor. I called my doctor and was able to get in at 2:15. The pain eased some in the afternoon, and by the time I was in the doctor's office it was gone completely. Next time I'm not making an appointment, I'm just driving myself to his office, walking in the door, and then I should be cured! The doctor was puzzled by my symptoms and ran some tests. He's sending me for an ultrasound on my gall bladder, because the only possible thing he could think the symptoms mimicked were that of gall stones. Apparently you can be in severe pain, then the stones can change position and you won't have pain again for a while, even months. Poor Dave had to set aside a day of work to help me, and then take me to the doctor.
2. Last night I was talking to my mom on the phone, and she informed me that she would not be having chemo today, like she was scheduled to. The results of her recent CT Scan came back and showed that the tumors on her liver have increased in size and multiplied. Her doctor is out of town, so she will wait until next week to see him and discuss a change in her treatment plan. Obviously, the chemo she's on is not working. This was not the news we were hoping for, but in a way we were expecting it. Her CA-125 count is way too high (483), so we knew something wasn't right.
3. Okay, so I thought I was feeling better today, and I was getting lots done this morning...and Dave was able to work. I was in the kitchen cleaning Joel's exersaucer, so he could start using it, but when I stood up I felt a snap in my back and the pain seemed to be shooting all over my body. Yes, I put my back out. I have not done this in some time, and really don't recall twisting funny while cleaning, or standing up any different than I normally do. But, backs are tricky things and they can go out even if you didn't do anything. So, now I'm in a lot of pain, and walking lopsided. I called my chiropractor and have an appointment at 9:15tomorrow. As of right now I'm able to sit, or walk very slowly. Dave had errands that HAD to get done, so he took Alayna and I'm home with Joel, who is currently napping. I should be okay to take care of him for now. Dave also has a First Responder class tonight with a test, so for now I'm trying to take it easy so I can take care of my family.
So, with all this, I was reminded of a verse that I read in Jeremiah yesterday which said, "O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps." Jeremiah 10:23 Okay, so I'm not sure that "man who walks" applies to me right now...j/k, but I was thinking how frustrating these circumstances feel right now. I always feel like I have too much to do to be sick or injured, and I have some things planned tomorrow at Julie's school, as well as a harvest party for her to go to tomorrow night, Dave has a hunter's breakfast planned for Saturday morning, he's taking this class, the kids have colds, and on and on the list goes...but maybe I'm just trying too hard to plan my own steps, and not stopping and listening to what the Lord has for me. Apparently he wants me to sit still for a while and rest in Him.
This verse is also applicable to the situation with my mom. As much as we'd like to direct the steps for her, and have this cancer gone from her body, this is not up to us. He directs her steps, and He is in control of her treatment and healing. Not even the doctors have control...they may not realize it, but the Lord is directing their steps, too. She is in God's hands, and I am so thankful!!!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Okay, Here's The Info....
Okay, this is kinda lengthy, so if you'd rather not read it I'd understand...
I have been thinking through how to post this topic for some time now, but I just haven't had time to type it all out. I have mentioned a couple times that we have made some disciplining changes around the Miles household. To explain why the changes have been made I need to let you in on some family secrets...okay, are you ready? Our oldest, Julie, for the most part is well behaved in public, but at home we were dealing with a different side. Strong-willed, determined, demanding, and out-of-control. Okay, I don't like discussing her in a negative light, but I am being truthful. Dave & I have always believed in consistency, and felt that was the one of the keys to good parenting...and we still believe this is true, but we had to admit to ourselves that what we were doing was just not working with her. She is very sweet and loving, and the next minute she's raging out of control, screaming and hitting (mostly me). Some of you might be reading this and thinking, well, what that child needs is a good swat....believe me, that child has received some good swats (remember, I'm just being honest here), and the rage only intensified.
We are not naive parents, and we knew that if we could not get a handle on this behavior now, we were fearful of what we would be facing down the road...not to mention that it is a dangerous place for a child to be when they're not obeying their mother & father. "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right!"
Okay, so now that you have an idea of what the problem was, let me tell you what led us to this new direction. Let me clarify, by "new direction" I'm not talking about going against God's Word and His plan for children and parents, I'm talking about changing our approach with Julie.
About four weeks ago my parents were visiting with us and helping us celebrate Alayna's 2nd birthday. Over the course of their visit Julie showed her more difficult side, and when asked to help with minor things she refused and was disobedient. To say the least, it was embarassing. The first evening, after my parents returned home, Dave had to be away for something, so I was taking care of the 3 kids. I am mentioning all this, because this was my breaking point. Julie started in on one of her rages, and I was having a very difficult time getting control of her....plus, her screaming was scaring Joel & Alayna, which only made things worse. In the middle of all this my dad called me to let me know they arrived home safely. I tried to contain it, but I burst in to tears on the phone. He asked me if he could talk to Julie on the phone and I said sure. He had a chat with Julie and she did calm down and became more controlled. Afterwards I talked with my dad and he mentioned this book he's heard so much about. I had heard of it, too, but the idea of the title seemed absurd to me. But, at this point I was willing to try anything. Dave & I agreed we needed to get a copy of it, so he bought it the next day. Let me tell you, I devoured it!
This is the book...and many of you may be familiar with it already.
Dr. Kevin Leman's approach is very no-nonsense. His whole message is to let reality be the consequence. If you want to be lazy and not do school work, fine, you get to take the F, I'm not helping. If you want to be difficult at the dinner table and not eat, well then so be it, but after you get up the kitchen is closed, and there's nothing more to eat. Believe me, this all made so much sense, and in a way seemed obvious. But, when you've been battling a child and doing what you thought was right and it's still not working, you feel overwhelmed and confused.
His main theme is "Say it once, turn your back & walk away." He says that repeating what you've said to the child over and over is like saying "You're so stupid, I don't think you're capable of handling this." BINGO! I learned that I am that mother. Because Julie can be so pokey I tend to hover and repeat myself. Well, once Dave & I stepped up and used this approach and she had to reap the consequences a few times, she learned pretty quick.
Example 1: I had asked her to make her bed before Sunday School. Well, she didn't do it. I only asked her once, and never mentioned it again. After she went downstairs for Sunday school, (our church's children Sunday school is in our basement...the parsonage) I made the bed. But, instead of lecturing her about it later I gathered up all the stuffed animals she likes to sleep with and her favorite blanket, and I displayed them on Dave & my bed. When we got home from church and it was time for her rest she wanted those things. Well, guess what, they belonged to me that day. I made her bed, so I rewarded myself by displaying those items on my bed. Believe me, this was not making her happy...but when she saw I didn't back down, and didn't engage her in any argument, she got the message.
Example 2: After a family shopping outing she became angry on the way home and took her shoes off and threw them in the van. Well, instead of yelling at her and making her apologize...or spanking her for her behavior, when we got home Dave gathered up her shoes and told her that since she decided to throw her shoes she'd have to walk in to the house without them. Once again, she was not happy since we have a dirt driveway. She fussed and got mad, but we didn't back down and she did it. (I had dirty white socks to wash, but that didn't matter)
Once she is calm and has gotten the message we use those as teaching moments. So, it's been about 4 weeks now and I'll just say it's like we have a new child! I love this child dearly, and it was breaking my heart that we were having so much trouble with her, and now I'm so encouraged that we are finally getting through. She is not perfect, but no one is. However, she is no longer having screaming tirades, she is not hitting me, and she's doing as she's asked. She is seeking attention in positive ways now (the screaming fits were ways to get attention...we knew that, but didn't know how to handle them), she offers to help me with things, and she is teaching her sister how to help....without me having to ask.
We are also using this approach with Alayna. Say it once, turn your back and walk away. If they want to scream, so what...if you don't acknowledge it they eventually get the message. My problem was that I thought I needed to acknowledge the screaming with discipline and not allow her to get away with it. Once I started ignoring it and acting as if I didn't even know it was happening (which made Julie VERY mad at first...and Alayna, too), it eventually stopped. If Alayna asks for a snack, and it's not time, I say no and walk away. She might get mad, but she stops because I'm ignoring her.
I had to recognize some things about myself. I was a permissive parent AND I was an authoritarian type parent. On one hand I would try to keep peace at any cost to avoid an outburst, on the other hand when an outburst would happen I would take on the mentality of "so help me child, you will obey me and I will win!" She would hit and I'd chase after her, "Oh no you didn't!!!" The hitting is never to be tolerated, and we don't ignore that behavior, but now that we've changed our approach it's not much of an issue any longer.
The problem was we were engaging her in too much dialogue...too many explanations as to why what she did was wrong, and why she needs to obey, and why she shouldn't do that again, and why it wasn't kind and loving, etc., etc., spank, spank, spank! Now, if we have to use spanking, then we do it, tell her why, and that's the end of it. No room for arguing and screaming. If she screams then we walk away until she's ready to listen and apologize...and REALLY apologize.
I've had some fun with this, too. For example, one day Julie was having a fit in the living room and not obeying, I told her to go to her room, but she yelled to me, "you go to your room." Instead of getting mad I just said "that's a great idea, I think I will, come on Joel & Alayna let's go have fun in mommy's room." She immediately stopped yelling and said "I want to have fun in your room, too." I said, "Oh, well then I guess you better do as I asked and apologize to me, so we can all start having fun." Believe me, she got the message loud & clear...and I wasn't beside myself with stress trying to get control of her and WIN!
Now she is recognizing on her own when she has done something wrong and needs to apologize for it, and she comes to us herself. Tonight while I was getting the kids ready for bed she got a very sassy tone with me. I just looked at her, but didn't say a word. She immediately said "I'm sorry mom, I was being sassy." Can I just tell you, that may sound simple, but in this house that is MAJOR!!
Alayna is only two, so we don't expect her to understand the things Julie does, but she is learning that whining is not tolerated and I won't listen to it.
Are we now perfect parents, ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! But, I can tell you honestly that I'm a much happier mom, and less stressed.
Sorry that this was so lengthy, I hope you weren't bored to tears...I just had to share what's been on my heart, and how encouraged I am to be living in a more peaceful home.
I have been thinking through how to post this topic for some time now, but I just haven't had time to type it all out. I have mentioned a couple times that we have made some disciplining changes around the Miles household. To explain why the changes have been made I need to let you in on some family secrets...okay, are you ready? Our oldest, Julie, for the most part is well behaved in public, but at home we were dealing with a different side. Strong-willed, determined, demanding, and out-of-control. Okay, I don't like discussing her in a negative light, but I am being truthful. Dave & I have always believed in consistency, and felt that was the one of the keys to good parenting...and we still believe this is true, but we had to admit to ourselves that what we were doing was just not working with her. She is very sweet and loving, and the next minute she's raging out of control, screaming and hitting (mostly me). Some of you might be reading this and thinking, well, what that child needs is a good swat....believe me, that child has received some good swats (remember, I'm just being honest here), and the rage only intensified.
We are not naive parents, and we knew that if we could not get a handle on this behavior now, we were fearful of what we would be facing down the road...not to mention that it is a dangerous place for a child to be when they're not obeying their mother & father. "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right!"
Okay, so now that you have an idea of what the problem was, let me tell you what led us to this new direction. Let me clarify, by "new direction" I'm not talking about going against God's Word and His plan for children and parents, I'm talking about changing our approach with Julie.
About four weeks ago my parents were visiting with us and helping us celebrate Alayna's 2nd birthday. Over the course of their visit Julie showed her more difficult side, and when asked to help with minor things she refused and was disobedient. To say the least, it was embarassing. The first evening, after my parents returned home, Dave had to be away for something, so I was taking care of the 3 kids. I am mentioning all this, because this was my breaking point. Julie started in on one of her rages, and I was having a very difficult time getting control of her....plus, her screaming was scaring Joel & Alayna, which only made things worse. In the middle of all this my dad called me to let me know they arrived home safely. I tried to contain it, but I burst in to tears on the phone. He asked me if he could talk to Julie on the phone and I said sure. He had a chat with Julie and she did calm down and became more controlled. Afterwards I talked with my dad and he mentioned this book he's heard so much about. I had heard of it, too, but the idea of the title seemed absurd to me. But, at this point I was willing to try anything. Dave & I agreed we needed to get a copy of it, so he bought it the next day. Let me tell you, I devoured it!
This is the book...and many of you may be familiar with it already.
Dr. Kevin Leman's approach is very no-nonsense. His whole message is to let reality be the consequence. If you want to be lazy and not do school work, fine, you get to take the F, I'm not helping. If you want to be difficult at the dinner table and not eat, well then so be it, but after you get up the kitchen is closed, and there's nothing more to eat. Believe me, this all made so much sense, and in a way seemed obvious. But, when you've been battling a child and doing what you thought was right and it's still not working, you feel overwhelmed and confused.
His main theme is "Say it once, turn your back & walk away." He says that repeating what you've said to the child over and over is like saying "You're so stupid, I don't think you're capable of handling this." BINGO! I learned that I am that mother. Because Julie can be so pokey I tend to hover and repeat myself. Well, once Dave & I stepped up and used this approach and she had to reap the consequences a few times, she learned pretty quick.
Example 1: I had asked her to make her bed before Sunday School. Well, she didn't do it. I only asked her once, and never mentioned it again. After she went downstairs for Sunday school, (our church's children Sunday school is in our basement...the parsonage) I made the bed. But, instead of lecturing her about it later I gathered up all the stuffed animals she likes to sleep with and her favorite blanket, and I displayed them on Dave & my bed. When we got home from church and it was time for her rest she wanted those things. Well, guess what, they belonged to me that day. I made her bed, so I rewarded myself by displaying those items on my bed. Believe me, this was not making her happy...but when she saw I didn't back down, and didn't engage her in any argument, she got the message.
Example 2: After a family shopping outing she became angry on the way home and took her shoes off and threw them in the van. Well, instead of yelling at her and making her apologize...or spanking her for her behavior, when we got home Dave gathered up her shoes and told her that since she decided to throw her shoes she'd have to walk in to the house without them. Once again, she was not happy since we have a dirt driveway. She fussed and got mad, but we didn't back down and she did it. (I had dirty white socks to wash, but that didn't matter)
Once she is calm and has gotten the message we use those as teaching moments. So, it's been about 4 weeks now and I'll just say it's like we have a new child! I love this child dearly, and it was breaking my heart that we were having so much trouble with her, and now I'm so encouraged that we are finally getting through. She is not perfect, but no one is. However, she is no longer having screaming tirades, she is not hitting me, and she's doing as she's asked. She is seeking attention in positive ways now (the screaming fits were ways to get attention...we knew that, but didn't know how to handle them), she offers to help me with things, and she is teaching her sister how to help....without me having to ask.
We are also using this approach with Alayna. Say it once, turn your back and walk away. If they want to scream, so what...if you don't acknowledge it they eventually get the message. My problem was that I thought I needed to acknowledge the screaming with discipline and not allow her to get away with it. Once I started ignoring it and acting as if I didn't even know it was happening (which made Julie VERY mad at first...and Alayna, too), it eventually stopped. If Alayna asks for a snack, and it's not time, I say no and walk away. She might get mad, but she stops because I'm ignoring her.
I had to recognize some things about myself. I was a permissive parent AND I was an authoritarian type parent. On one hand I would try to keep peace at any cost to avoid an outburst, on the other hand when an outburst would happen I would take on the mentality of "so help me child, you will obey me and I will win!" She would hit and I'd chase after her, "Oh no you didn't!!!" The hitting is never to be tolerated, and we don't ignore that behavior, but now that we've changed our approach it's not much of an issue any longer.
The problem was we were engaging her in too much dialogue...too many explanations as to why what she did was wrong, and why she needs to obey, and why she shouldn't do that again, and why it wasn't kind and loving, etc., etc., spank, spank, spank! Now, if we have to use spanking, then we do it, tell her why, and that's the end of it. No room for arguing and screaming. If she screams then we walk away until she's ready to listen and apologize...and REALLY apologize.
I've had some fun with this, too. For example, one day Julie was having a fit in the living room and not obeying, I told her to go to her room, but she yelled to me, "you go to your room." Instead of getting mad I just said "that's a great idea, I think I will, come on Joel & Alayna let's go have fun in mommy's room." She immediately stopped yelling and said "I want to have fun in your room, too." I said, "Oh, well then I guess you better do as I asked and apologize to me, so we can all start having fun." Believe me, she got the message loud & clear...and I wasn't beside myself with stress trying to get control of her and WIN!
Now she is recognizing on her own when she has done something wrong and needs to apologize for it, and she comes to us herself. Tonight while I was getting the kids ready for bed she got a very sassy tone with me. I just looked at her, but didn't say a word. She immediately said "I'm sorry mom, I was being sassy." Can I just tell you, that may sound simple, but in this house that is MAJOR!!
Alayna is only two, so we don't expect her to understand the things Julie does, but she is learning that whining is not tolerated and I won't listen to it.
Are we now perfect parents, ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! But, I can tell you honestly that I'm a much happier mom, and less stressed.
Sorry that this was so lengthy, I hope you weren't bored to tears...I just had to share what's been on my heart, and how encouraged I am to be living in a more peaceful home.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Will He Crawl Soon???
Just a quick update...we're all doing well at the Miles home. I am anxious to have more time to tell you about the change in discipline tactics we've put in to place in our home, and how wonderfully affective they've been. But more on that later...All I'm going to say is that since we've made some changes around here Julie no longer seems to be struggling with "night terrors", which have plagued our home for 2 1/2 years now.
Okay, I just had to share these few pictures of Joel that I took yesterday. He's pushing himself up on his arms and he's so strong. With the exception of a few nights recently, he is pretty much sleeping all night long. He is drooling constantly, and I can see bumps where his first bottom teeth will eventually break through. I really hate the teething stage. But, it is just a stage, and will pass in time.
Yes, he's wearing camouflage....Dave is so proud. It is archery season here, but I keep a close eye on Dave to make sure he doesn't take Joel with him when he goes. He's anxious for Joel to learn to hunt, but I think he's a bit young yet, don't you?
"Hey Mom, how's it goin'?"
Okay, I just had to share these few pictures of Joel that I took yesterday. He's pushing himself up on his arms and he's so strong. With the exception of a few nights recently, he is pretty much sleeping all night long. He is drooling constantly, and I can see bumps where his first bottom teeth will eventually break through. I really hate the teething stage. But, it is just a stage, and will pass in time.
Yes, he's wearing camouflage....Dave is so proud. It is archery season here, but I keep a close eye on Dave to make sure he doesn't take Joel with him when he goes. He's anxious for Joel to learn to hunt, but I think he's a bit young yet, don't you?
"Hey Mom, how's it goin'?"
Friday, October 17, 2008
Pumpkin Picking
This past Wednesday we decided to take the kids pumpkin picking when Julie got home from school. The weather was supposed to cool down as the week went on, and it was so beautiful Wednesday, it was the perfect day to go. We went to Kelder's Farm, where you can pick your own pumpkins. The farm is a great place to take kids. They have a mini-golf course, and lots of things for kids to play on, as well as animals that they can feed. We had a great time as a family, and the kids were great! We even managed to have supper at Subway before going home. It's not exciting, but I didn't have to cook it.
The girls picked out pumpkins, and then Julie picked out one for Joel. Not that he cares, but I like it when they show thoughtfulness towards each other.
Here are some pictures from our outing.
This is self-explanatory.
Dave & Alayna walking back to the van. I thought this made a great black & white.
Julie, Alayna & Joel.
We let Julie play a round of mini golf...I think she scored a 69 on a 10 hole course. She plays like her mom. :)
The girls picked out pumpkins, and then Julie picked out one for Joel. Not that he cares, but I like it when they show thoughtfulness towards each other.
Here are some pictures from our outing.
This is self-explanatory.
Dave & Alayna walking back to the van. I thought this made a great black & white.
Julie, Alayna & Joel.
We let Julie play a round of mini golf...I think she scored a 69 on a 10 hole course. She plays like her mom. :)
More of the Pumpkin Outing
Here are some more pictures from our pumpking picking outing at Kelder's Farm.
Joel loves being outdoors, and was very content to ride in his stroller for this outing. Next year he'll be walking and wanting to join in on the fun.
Me & the kids.
Up-close & personal with Joel. Don't you just want to squeeze him, he's so cute? I know I'm biased. :)
Alayna was having a melt down...one, because I was taking a picture of her having a melt down, and two, because she kept tripping over the pumpkin vines and it was making her mad.
My husband thinks I'm losing my mind because I keep telling him I'd like to get a couple chickens to raise for fresh eggs. My mother will think I've lost it, too, when she reads this. I just think it would be fun, and the girls would have a good time feeding them & learning to collect the eggs. Anyways, I had to take a picture of these adorable chickens at the farm.
Joel loves being outdoors, and was very content to ride in his stroller for this outing. Next year he'll be walking and wanting to join in on the fun.
Me & the kids.
Up-close & personal with Joel. Don't you just want to squeeze him, he's so cute? I know I'm biased. :)
Alayna was having a melt down...one, because I was taking a picture of her having a melt down, and two, because she kept tripping over the pumpkin vines and it was making her mad.
My husband thinks I'm losing my mind because I keep telling him I'd like to get a couple chickens to raise for fresh eggs. My mother will think I've lost it, too, when she reads this. I just think it would be fun, and the girls would have a good time feeding them & learning to collect the eggs. Anyways, I had to take a picture of these adorable chickens at the farm.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Comparison
I put together this little collage of pictures. Joel is in the middle and on either side are pictures of Dave as a baby. Do you think Joel looks like his daddy??? All three of our kids tend to look more like Dave as infants...
Monday, October 13, 2008
A Full Fall Weekend
Wow, we have had a very busy weekend! Julie had Grandparents Day at school on Friday. Dave's mom & grandma (a.k.a. MeMa & Gramma Legg), were able to come for this special day. They live about an hour from us, so it means a lot that they took the time out to be with Julie. The kids sang songs for them, made crafts with them, and they got to eat their lunch together and go to recess together. I don't think many grandparents played hopscotch at recess....I could be wrong, but I'm just guessing here. Afterwards the kids could be dismissed from school early if the parents had given permission. I picked up Julie at 12:15, and she had a half day off from school. Although, halfway down the road I was beginning to second guess my decision to allow her to leave school early, when she was having a meltdown in the van after not getting her way over something....more on that later. I will be blogging sometime soon about discipline problems, and a great tool (I don't mean tool literally, as in hammer, or wrench) we've found to really help us. I'm not ready to say much yet, since we're still in the early stages of this process. But, I've peaked your interest, haven't I??? :)
Below is a picture of Julie before school on Grandparents Day. I thought she looked adorable, and dressed appropriately for fall.
Saturday we went to a family picnic. Dave's second cousin, & his wife, hosted it at their home in the Saratoga area. I can't even tell you how many people were there. All I know is that people were everywhere. We saw family that we haven't see in a long time, as well as met many new members of the family that were added in the past year. Below is a picture of 13 of the 15 kids that were there. Dave's cousin (I think he's a 3rd cousin) & his wife, have a little girl around 3 1/2 years old, then they have a set of boy/girl twins that are 19 months old, THEN they had another set of boy/girl twins this past June. WOW!!! The youngest set of twins are not in the picture since one was eating at the time, and the other sleeping. Julie is holding Joel, and Dave had to stay with Alayna since she wasn't cooperating too well.
It goes without saying that this area of New York, the Catskill Mountains, holds such majestic beauty. This weekend was especially fun to be out driving anywhere. We were in our "peak" season of fall colors and it was just gorgeous! Yesterday afternoon we drove to the town of Potter Hollow, to attend a dedication service for Dave's brother's baby boy, at the church Dave's brother is now Pastoring. The weather was gorgeous, and the drive was beautiful, but my favorite part was being in that small one-room country church, with no indoor plumbing, and seeing it crowded with people that were there to worship God together last evening. Dave's dad had Pastored this church at one time, while Dave was growing up. As many may know, his dad passed away 12 years ago. So being in this church, and seeing God use this ministry, in this hollow of the Catskill mountains, was very moving. After the service we headed down the road to the grange hall, which the church owns, for a potluck supper. This building did have indoor plumbing, which we were all grateful for! :)
Here are a few pictures I captured on our drive down the mountain toward the church. The pictures don't do it complete justice. Seeing God's creation in all it's color yesterday was cause to worship!
Ahhh, those mountains!
Below is a picture of Julie before school on Grandparents Day. I thought she looked adorable, and dressed appropriately for fall.
Saturday we went to a family picnic. Dave's second cousin, & his wife, hosted it at their home in the Saratoga area. I can't even tell you how many people were there. All I know is that people were everywhere. We saw family that we haven't see in a long time, as well as met many new members of the family that were added in the past year. Below is a picture of 13 of the 15 kids that were there. Dave's cousin (I think he's a 3rd cousin) & his wife, have a little girl around 3 1/2 years old, then they have a set of boy/girl twins that are 19 months old, THEN they had another set of boy/girl twins this past June. WOW!!! The youngest set of twins are not in the picture since one was eating at the time, and the other sleeping. Julie is holding Joel, and Dave had to stay with Alayna since she wasn't cooperating too well.
It goes without saying that this area of New York, the Catskill Mountains, holds such majestic beauty. This weekend was especially fun to be out driving anywhere. We were in our "peak" season of fall colors and it was just gorgeous! Yesterday afternoon we drove to the town of Potter Hollow, to attend a dedication service for Dave's brother's baby boy, at the church Dave's brother is now Pastoring. The weather was gorgeous, and the drive was beautiful, but my favorite part was being in that small one-room country church, with no indoor plumbing, and seeing it crowded with people that were there to worship God together last evening. Dave's dad had Pastored this church at one time, while Dave was growing up. As many may know, his dad passed away 12 years ago. So being in this church, and seeing God use this ministry, in this hollow of the Catskill mountains, was very moving. After the service we headed down the road to the grange hall, which the church owns, for a potluck supper. This building did have indoor plumbing, which we were all grateful for! :)
Here are a few pictures I captured on our drive down the mountain toward the church. The pictures don't do it complete justice. Seeing God's creation in all it's color yesterday was cause to worship!
Ahhh, those mountains!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
A Little Aaron I'm-A Blarin'
Okay, I know the title is a little...well...let's just say I'm reachin' for a catchy title. :) I was watching Fox & Friends this morning, as I often do, on the Fox News station. They had country music artist Aaron Tippin on to sing his new song, "Drill Here, Drill Now." I've decided to adopt this as my oil anthem.
I am trying very hard to keep my blog light-hearted and family-oriented. Since most of you read it to see the latest happenings in our home. But I have to tell you that during this highly charged political season, where I am very passionate about who I am voting for, and why, I'm finding it hard to restrain myself and not turn this into a blog about politics.
Most of you watch the news I'm sure, and hear enough about the economic crisis, the smear tactics of the campaigns, Fannie & Freddie, Biden's Gaffe's, Tina Fey's impersinations on SNL of Sarah Palin, and on and on the list goes...so unless you are dying to know what I'm thinking politically, I will do my best to just keep you up to date on the Miles Mayhem. BTW, don't I look great in a pink blazer and khaki pants?
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Kiddos
I took these pictures of the kids last night playing on Julie's bed. Joel was surrounded by all the stuffed animals that Julie "must" sleep with every night. They were having a great time, and it was a wonderful photo opportunity. Enjoy!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The Eternal Purpose...
I feel compelled to tell you about something my mom shared with me yesterday. First of all, the news she received yesterday from Magee Women's Hospital, in Pittsburgh, where her doctor is, and where she gets chemo-therapy, was not what we had hoped for. Her CA-125 count (this is a cancer count, specific for Ovarian Cancer patients), only dropped 4 points. It was 487, and is now 483. This is way too high! For her to be considered in remission it would need to be under 10, if that gives you a better idea of how high this really is. So, this was not what we were hoping for, and really what we were praying for. We had hoped that the virus she had a couple months ago had skewed her numbers, and that it would go back down. This was not to be. Thursday is her appointment in Pittsburgh with her doctor, and we will wait to hear what the plan of action will be.
I say all this because so often when I'm discouraged about what the last 5 years have brought to our entire family, especially my mom, the Lord reminds us why He chose mom for this journey...and it certainly has been a journey. Mom works for the Erie County Public Library at their main branch. She types an e-mail after each treatment, and has done this since the beginning. The library where she works posts these e-mails on their bulletin board. At the beginning of each e-mail is a verse that the Lord has placed on her heart. Mom was approached a couple days ago by one of the librarians. She said to mom that she knows they don't know each other well, but she wanted her to know how much her e-mails have inspired her. She was choked up as she spoke to her. She said she had never read the Bible before, but reading the verses in moms e-mails has made her want to start reading. She asked about the version mom reads. The librarian came back to mom later and said she spoke to the reference librarian at the branch and she was going to find a Bible for her, so she could start reading it.
To us, this is a reminder that even though this is difficult, there is an Eternal Purpose. This woman is seeking, and she wants to read the Bible for the first time in her life. I believe that if someone is truly wanting to know the Lord, He will reveal Himself to them. My prayer is that she will seek Him with all her heart. I also pray for other opportunities for mom to speak with her, and for the Lord to place other Christians in this woman's life, as well.
A friend of mine sent me this link to this music video. I thought the song was powerful. If you are able to open this I hope you'll take the time to listen:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=38624195
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20
I say all this because so often when I'm discouraged about what the last 5 years have brought to our entire family, especially my mom, the Lord reminds us why He chose mom for this journey...and it certainly has been a journey. Mom works for the Erie County Public Library at their main branch. She types an e-mail after each treatment, and has done this since the beginning. The library where she works posts these e-mails on their bulletin board. At the beginning of each e-mail is a verse that the Lord has placed on her heart. Mom was approached a couple days ago by one of the librarians. She said to mom that she knows they don't know each other well, but she wanted her to know how much her e-mails have inspired her. She was choked up as she spoke to her. She said she had never read the Bible before, but reading the verses in moms e-mails has made her want to start reading. She asked about the version mom reads. The librarian came back to mom later and said she spoke to the reference librarian at the branch and she was going to find a Bible for her, so she could start reading it.
To us, this is a reminder that even though this is difficult, there is an Eternal Purpose. This woman is seeking, and she wants to read the Bible for the first time in her life. I believe that if someone is truly wanting to know the Lord, He will reveal Himself to them. My prayer is that she will seek Him with all her heart. I also pray for other opportunities for mom to speak with her, and for the Lord to place other Christians in this woman's life, as well.
A friend of mine sent me this link to this music video. I thought the song was powerful. If you are able to open this I hope you'll take the time to listen:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=38624195
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Mom & Dad's Visit
We had a wonderful 4 1/2 days with my parents! They arrived Friday night, in time for dinner, and they left at 9 this morning, after having breakfast. Do you think they time their visits around meals??? We have been saying our hello's and good-byes to one another for over 8 years now. Since Dave & I married 8 years ago we've lived in New York state. There have been moments when saying good-bye to my parents seemed like it might get easier. You know you have to return home at some point, so you know the good-byes are coming and you try to prepare yourself for them. I think there was a time when I thought I was getting better at it, but then I started having kids, and my mom got cancer. You want your kids to grow up knowing their grandparents, having every opportunity to spend time with them, and learn from them. Now that my oldest, Julie, really grasps the distance between us, and has a hard time saying good-bye to her Mimi & Papa, that makes it even harder. I am thankful that even though we don't live near my family my kids really do know their grandparents, and love spending time with them.
As I type this I am reminded of why we are in New York, and God's calling on our life. I don't hesitate for a moment to know we're exactly where God would have us to be, but it doesn't make me miss my family any less.
We had a wonderful visit with my parents. Dad & Dave got in a little fishing time on the Rondout Creek. Julie & Papa made two trips to Dunkin Donuts for their special time. Julie looks forward to that every time she sees Papa. She knows he's going to treat her to a donut with pink icing and sprinkles. Life doesn't get much better. The second trip to DD, Dave & Alayna tagged along, too. Mom, Joel & I had our own outing on Monday to a wonderful bakery for lunch. We enjoyed a delicious Monte Cristo, and an afternoon of shopping at Kohl's, and a local Farm Market. Neither of us would say we LOVE shopping, but when we're together there's something much more fun about it. We love to laugh at ourselves, and each other. My mom is & has always been one of my closest friends!
I know I don't blog about this much, mostly because most of you are kept up to date on her status, and secondly because sometimes it's just too hard. My mom's CA-125 count is in limbo right now. The numbers are way too high, but we're waiting to find out if her numbers were skewed by a virus she had the last time they ran blood work. If that's the case, then the CA-125 should be lower next time. If not, then this means the chemo is not working. We are praying that it was the virus. I am thankful for every moment I get to spend with her, and I know God is not done using her on this earth. Our eternal home is in Heaven, and we look forward to the day where we meet Christ face to face. But for now, He is choosing to use this situation so others may know Him. And for those that do know Him, they will be encouraged. I know I am encouraged by my mom's testimony, and my dad's also. My dad has been given a lot to deal with over the past 5 years, but he has never waivered in his faith. He knows who my mom belongs to, and who is truly in control of her life.
Psalm 54:4 “Behold, God is my helper and ally: the Lord is my upholder and is with them who uphold my life.”
On that note I will lighten things up by showing you some pictures of our weekend:
Joel & Julie hangin' out on the floor.
Mom & the kids.
Part of the reason for my parents visit, besides coming for Alayna's 2nd Birthday, was to deliver some furniture they've been storing in their garage for us. My parents purchased a house full of furniture from a relative on mom's side, this past summer. They sold some of the furniture, but also divided up several pieces between them, my brother & his family, and us. We were able to replace our old table & chairs with a new (to us) one, that had a matching hutch. We also received a Baldwin Acrosonic piano, & a recliner. I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I am with these pieces of furniture. I took 3 years of piano lessons as a child, but I'm embarassed to say that I do not play well. I would love to play again, and intend to practice as often as I can. Dave & I also want our kids to each take piano lessons, at some point. They may not develop a love for it, and may choose another instrument they prefer, but the piano will be a good place to start.
Here are some pictures of our "new" furniture.
Julie at the piano. She is convinced that she knows how to play "Down by the Bay", and she sings along. It's awfully cute, and noisy, at the same time. :)
Our table! There are two leaf's for this table to make it quite large for family gatherings.
My new hutch that matches my table! Yippee! I put away my good dishes, and I still have room for more things. I'm thrilled to have the extra storage. No, it won't be used for any of Dave's hunting items. ugh!
As I type this I am reminded of why we are in New York, and God's calling on our life. I don't hesitate for a moment to know we're exactly where God would have us to be, but it doesn't make me miss my family any less.
We had a wonderful visit with my parents. Dad & Dave got in a little fishing time on the Rondout Creek. Julie & Papa made two trips to Dunkin Donuts for their special time. Julie looks forward to that every time she sees Papa. She knows he's going to treat her to a donut with pink icing and sprinkles. Life doesn't get much better. The second trip to DD, Dave & Alayna tagged along, too. Mom, Joel & I had our own outing on Monday to a wonderful bakery for lunch. We enjoyed a delicious Monte Cristo, and an afternoon of shopping at Kohl's, and a local Farm Market. Neither of us would say we LOVE shopping, but when we're together there's something much more fun about it. We love to laugh at ourselves, and each other. My mom is & has always been one of my closest friends!
I know I don't blog about this much, mostly because most of you are kept up to date on her status, and secondly because sometimes it's just too hard. My mom's CA-125 count is in limbo right now. The numbers are way too high, but we're waiting to find out if her numbers were skewed by a virus she had the last time they ran blood work. If that's the case, then the CA-125 should be lower next time. If not, then this means the chemo is not working. We are praying that it was the virus. I am thankful for every moment I get to spend with her, and I know God is not done using her on this earth. Our eternal home is in Heaven, and we look forward to the day where we meet Christ face to face. But for now, He is choosing to use this situation so others may know Him. And for those that do know Him, they will be encouraged. I know I am encouraged by my mom's testimony, and my dad's also. My dad has been given a lot to deal with over the past 5 years, but he has never waivered in his faith. He knows who my mom belongs to, and who is truly in control of her life.
Psalm 54:4 “Behold, God is my helper and ally: the Lord is my upholder and is with them who uphold my life.”
On that note I will lighten things up by showing you some pictures of our weekend:
Joel & Julie hangin' out on the floor.
Mom & the kids.
Part of the reason for my parents visit, besides coming for Alayna's 2nd Birthday, was to deliver some furniture they've been storing in their garage for us. My parents purchased a house full of furniture from a relative on mom's side, this past summer. They sold some of the furniture, but also divided up several pieces between them, my brother & his family, and us. We were able to replace our old table & chairs with a new (to us) one, that had a matching hutch. We also received a Baldwin Acrosonic piano, & a recliner. I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I am with these pieces of furniture. I took 3 years of piano lessons as a child, but I'm embarassed to say that I do not play well. I would love to play again, and intend to practice as often as I can. Dave & I also want our kids to each take piano lessons, at some point. They may not develop a love for it, and may choose another instrument they prefer, but the piano will be a good place to start.
Here are some pictures of our "new" furniture.
Julie at the piano. She is convinced that she knows how to play "Down by the Bay", and she sings along. It's awfully cute, and noisy, at the same time. :)
Our table! There are two leaf's for this table to make it quite large for family gatherings.
My new hutch that matches my table! Yippee! I put away my good dishes, and I still have room for more things. I'm thrilled to have the extra storage. No, it won't be used for any of Dave's hunting items. ugh!
Alayna's Official Birthday Party
Saturday night we had a birthday party for Alayna with my parents, Dave's mom, grandma, brother, his wife, & their two kids. In our little living room, that's a full house! Below are some pictures of Alayna's special evening.
Alayna & the ladybug cake I made her.
Alayna with Julie, opening her gifts.
Joel was enjoying the crinkling sounds of the wrapping paper.
I think the cake was a big hit. What do you think?
Alayna & the ladybug cake I made her.
Alayna with Julie, opening her gifts.
Joel was enjoying the crinkling sounds of the wrapping paper.
I think the cake was a big hit. What do you think?
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