The Graham Family

Music and Movement

2011-07-04T11:25:00.002-04:00

One of our favorite things to do for the 4th of July is to attend Symphony on the Prairie. Before we went, we explained to Luke that there would be musicians playing their instruments and fireworks. He was head over heels excited. He even insisted on bringing his ukulele and asked if he could play it on the stage with the other musicians. As proud as we were of him, we had to explain that it takes a long time of practicing to get to be on the stage, but we believed he would do it one day.

He was satisfied with our answer and was content to watch the symphony play. When they started with those first few beautiful notes, he jumped out of his seat and started shouting at the top of his lungs, "it is starting, it is starting!" Sweet little guy. We eventually got him calmed down enough to express himself silently through dance.
We even captured him long enough to get a photo.

Alice enjoyed her evening too, sitting very still to watch the fireworks and dancing to the marches. But, as she is 14 months old, it took a bit more to keep her entertained. I fear my sunglasses may never be the same again.

Pennies and M &M's

2011-06-27T16:27:00.001-04:00

In typical Luke fashion, he woke up Friday morning and declared that he would like to go potty in the potty chair. For me, the heavens opened and choirs of angles started singing.

We have been trying to get him interested for a few months but he has always just said "no thank you." we are now on day 4 and have not had a single accident!

He has always done things like this. Not showing interest in something and then just wakes up one day and does it perfectly. We are so proud of him.

We have been trying to come up with something that rewards him and his his hard work without filling him full of candy. We tried a few things but what seems to be working is giving him two m&m's and a dime when he uses the potty chair. The candy is immediate reward, and the dime is working towards a bigger goal. In short, Luke wants a ukulele.

We just laugh at night thinking that out of the entire toy store, our two year old's greatest desire is to own a ukulele. Love that kid to bits.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

"We didn't start the fire, It was always burning. .. "

2011-06-09T11:35:00.002-04:00

This child of ours. . . yes, the really cute one with the dimples is a challenge. Not to compare myself with Solomon, but I find myself praying continually for wisdom for this one. You see, Luke is brilliant and curious. But the other day, he set his room on fire.
We had a lamp in his room, which he has never bothered. He's two and afraid of the dark, so we thought we would be great parents and put a nice lamp with a dimmer in there for him. Boy were we wrong. I walked up stairs to get him after his nap and noticed an electrical smoke smell upstairs. I quickly looked through all the rooms but dismissed it as our dishwasher (yes, the auto dry smells that bad). I opened his door and smoke billowed out. I quickly saw that he had stuffed wet wipes, his old night light, bits of the port a crib and baby booties down his lamp, which were black and charred.

I quickly unplugged the lamp, made sure nothing else was on fire and checked him to make sure he was not burned. He was perfectly fine, thank God. After taking a few breaths, I calmly asked him why on earth had he caught his lamp on fire? His reply? He was pretending to roast marshmallows.

I never thought I would be the mother to buy a video baby monitor but I have joined their ranks. Did I mention he can also unscrew his furniture with his bare hands? Sigh.

Then there is this one. She is normally a joyful, content baby, but there is this side of Alice as well. Having an older brother like Luke hardens you at a very early age, I suppose. After she started walking on Easter Sunday, Alice decided that she wanted to take up climbing next. I do my best to keep an eye on her every second of every day, but the child if FAST! At Panara Bread the other day, I turned around to find her scaling the stack of high chairs.
Well, at least we are not board around here. Most of the time however, she toddles around with her hands in the air going "ya ya ya ya!" Sweet baby girl.

"We didn't start the fire No we didn't light it But we tried to fight it" I think Billy Joel had a premonition about my family.

Happy Birthday Dear Alice!

2011-04-22T17:14:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful time celebrating Alice's birthday. There was much merrymaking and cake,

Only a little birthday envy,some slight cake vs. plate confusion,

some loving family togetherness,

And a tradition to uphold, with some help from Daddy. Maybe next year she will be willing to hold onto the balloons. :)

Happy Birthday Alice!

2011-04-17T18:15:00.003-04:00

We celebrated Alice's birthday yesterday, even though the official day is Thursday. We had a great time with our family and friends and Alice enjoyed all the attention and icing. After the party, we spent some time with my brother and sister-in-law by participating in a non-traditional indoor game, but those pictures will have to wait until later.

The gospel according to Luke

2011-04-12T13:12:00.001-04:00

Part of our bedtime routine for months now has been to read Luke a Bible story. We got through the entire thing and started over. Luke has enjoyed this time but has only recently gotten to the point where he remembers the stories enough to talk about them. The resulting story telling has given us quite a few chuckles.

David and Goliath: "and the king asked David if he wanted to fight the giant and David said "no way, I don't want to fight that big guy!"

Then another night he asked for the story about the baby in the high chair. After much questioning, we figured out that he wanted the story about baby Moses in the basket.

The most recent, and my personal favorite has got to be the temptation of eve. According to Luke, it went something like this "eve punched that sneaky snake and said get back in that tree!".

For all of his enjoyment of Bible time, he is disappointed that there is not a story featuring a raccoon. This one took me a minute, until matthew pointed out that there is a raccoon on the cover of his story Bible with Noah. Apparently, when you are 2, it is ok to judge a Bible by it's cover.

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I am weary

2011-03-30T09:57:00.001-04:00

I have been so weary these last couple of days. I am feeling that bittersweetness of my baby turning one. She is crawling and cruising all over the place. I don't want another baby, which is good because I no longer have the proper equipment, but still, that time in my life is quickly passing.

Having babies has been all consuming for so long that I find myself emotionally exhausted. I was warned by a therapist during our years of infertility that I would be much more at risk for post-partum depression then most because of all the stress. Her prediction came true.

Two babies in two years was a lot for my body to handle and then the difficulty of my pregnancy with Alice was almost impossible. It takes real mental fortitude to cope with sitting in a chair for three months. As hard as that was, I am going to say that the gestational diabetes is what pushed me over. I have never had an eating disorder, but I was on my way to developing one after my pregnancy. I have really had to work on not reading nutritional labels.

It has been getting better though. I have some beautiful friends that have been through the same thing and are very supportive. In think what I am dealing with now is healing from my hysterectomy. I keep reminding myself that I have had two major surgeries in the last year and am only four months after the last one. Still, it would be nice not to feel so tired when I get up and I would like to feel more plugged in to my kids.

Pardon the ramblings of a tired girl.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Choo Choo Train

2011-03-23T10:18:00.002-04:00

Like many of you, we have had a recent outbreak of beautiful weather! The kids and I have been taking full advantage of it by getting outside. I received a fun little camera for my birthday and was able to take some video, so in a Susan blog first, here is a video of Luke. Couple of thoughts first:
1. Ignore my mother talking in the background.
2. The little girl playing with Luke is my youngest sister Ebbe. They just love each other.
3. The tracks we are playing on are part of a transportation museum in our local park and are not used, except for fun pictures. :)

Alice's 9 month pictures

2011-02-24T17:01:00.006-05:00

Thought I would share Alice's 9 month pictures. Since having these pictures taken, she is now crawling ALL over the place. In fact, the other night, we were having a leisurely play time before bed when all of a sudden, Alice walks by, pushing her stroller, like it happens every day. Of course, we broke into applause. I believe that the child wants to run, just like her big brother. Crawling is nice, but running is better.

She loves to sing, which is why Matthew and I have not heard a full sermon in months but it is the most beautiful sound. My favorite is when she sings herself to sleep while I rock her at bed time. The pure sound of joy is an amazing thing.

Ahh Wubbs. I don't know where we would be without this pacifier. She softs its ears as so goes to sleep, chews on its feet, and chucks it at you if she is mad. An all purpose toy really.

And of course, have to include a picture of the little man.

" Look, sorry. I've got a bit of a complex life. Things don't always happen to me in quite the right order. Gets a bit confusing at times"

2011-02-16T17:20:00.004-05:00

Hello! It has been too long. I, of course, always have tons of pictures to post, but alas, our card reader is not working again. I suspect it is the workings of a little boy that looks something like this. Please note the joy at making off with his sister's stroller and also the passenger.

When not stealing his sister's prize possessions, we occasionally have a hard time finding him. We have learned to look in the closet.

Then again, sometimes he searches through Alice's room for treasures.

You must not feel bad for Alice though. She has sought her revenge by learning to pull up first, then crawl. Luke's train table is just the right height and gets just the right reaction from her brother.

But she does take time out to accessorize.

In all seriousness, our family has been going through a transition. Matthew's last day of work was Friday, the 11. He has been blessed with two wonderful offers and will hopefully start his new job early March. In the meantime, he is pursuing his lifelong dream of owning his own business. It has been a bit uncertain around here, just waiting for information back from interviews but God has blessed and we are excited to start this new phase.

Me? What do I do? Well, I prefer to call myself a child wrangler. I can't wait until summer is here again and I can take the kids outside. Our recent winter storm left 4-6 inches of ice on the ground, so Luke could not even go out and play. Strangely enough, I kinda got used to the 8 inch ice speed bump behind my car I had to cross to get into the garage. I did not have any ice skates, it was that smooth, but I did have access to the kids sled. I am proud to report that I slid all the way down the drive, into the street, and almost hit the mailbox.

I hope to keep up more often and I have Alice's 9 month pictures coming, but I need to attend to a situation.

We are alive and doing fine!

2010-12-20T14:49:00.002-05:00

Long time, no post! I've been recovering from a hysterectomy for the past four weeks and the rest of the family has been trying to cope. Although, I do have to say, I feel like I won the lottery! Aside from a little surgery pain, I feel great! I am so very glad that I had the procedure and I can't wait until I am really up and about.

I have lots and lots of pictures to post, but I hear a little boy calling to get up from his nap so they will have to wait. I will simply leave you with this picture of Alice, enjoying some quality laundry time.

Day 6

2010-11-27T19:35:00.000-05:00

Trick or Feet!

2010-11-01T09:04:00.005-04:00

We had a really wonderful Halloween! We started the weekend out Trunk or Treating at our church, Christ the Savior. It took all of our parental powers to convince him that he needed to wear a costume while we were at home. Finally, we just told him nobody would give him candy if he didn't wear something. He agreed to the "candy jacket" and we were happy. Alice was much more easy going about being a doodle bug. I actually made two lady bug costumes, but hated both, tore one apart with my seam ripper, and decided to take my husband's suggestion and make her a doodle bug instead.

Luke proudly walked up to the first car and said, prompted by Daddy, said "trick or feet!" It worked for him because he got a pretty good stash the first night. He rode home with his head in the candy bag admiring all of the pieces.

Although, he would take one out from time to time to really get a good look.

Being the incredibly responsible parents that we are, we let him have a few pieces right before bed. :)

For trick or treating, we had a couple of our friends over for doughnuts and cider before we braved three toddlers, one baby, one pregnant lady and the chilly evening.

Our friends Laura and Patrick with their little guy live in our neighborhood and attend our church. . .

Our friends Jamala, Brad and their little man our technically my aunt and uncle, but that's complicated. We enjoy their company every Thursday night for a pitch in meal at our house.

And of course, our little crew.

And then the trick or treating was on! Really, wouldn't you give these little guys a bunch of candy if they showed up at your door? They were perfect gentlemen, not pushing, saying please and thank you, and each studied the candy bowl to make sure they were getting the best piece of candy.

Any time we stopped, Luke, of course, would count the bountiful harvest.
Alice was a wonderful doodle bug and tagged along with all of those boys. She did, however, try to take anybodies candy that happened to wonder to close to her curious hands. :)

Matthew went as Dr. Who. Although, I just think this outfit looks nice on him.

I think the Doodle Bug,

Elephant,
Tractor,

And fireman,

Had a wonderful time.

Haloween Dance Party

2010-10-27T20:47:00.002-04:00

We dance every Monday night. It is great exercise and it gives us a night out. This last class was a Halloween party. Can you guess who we went as? It may not look like it, but we are in costume. We are huge Dr. Who fans. The BBC brought back the series in 2005, with new Dr.'s and companions. So, Matthew went as The Doctor himself and I am his faithful companion. Specifically, he went as the 10th Dr., David Tennant, complete with Converse All-Stars.

My parents, who also dance every Monday, went as a Grand Hotel Bell Boy and Guest.
We started out the night with our favorite rhythm, Tango. I have more photos of us doing cool moves, but I make really funny faces while I dance, apparently.

Can't wait until the Christmas party!

Fall at the pumpkin patch

2010-10-25T15:45:00.004-04:00

We took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather last weekend and went to the pumpkin patch. Matthew was feeling a wee bit grumpy. . .

but the rest of us had a lovely time.

Luke climbed all over the place,

and enjoyed a sucker. . .

or two.
All in all, it was a beautiful day!

My disease

2010-10-24T23:07:00.002-04:00

Did I ever mention that I have a disease? A untreatable, chronic, disease? I have endometriosis, just like millions of other women. Most people don't know what it really is though. My spell check can't even check it. In short, some of the lining of my uterus found its way out of my uterus and grows in other parts of my body. Mine grows on my bladder, intestines, and other spots. I am very blessed that it does not grow on my ovaries or uterus. Strangely enough, my endometriosis is not why we could not get pregnant for so many years, but that is another story for another day.

Some endometriosis is treatable. Mine isn't. I have tried birth control hormones, three surgeries, Lupron, two IUD's and just ignoring it. The birth control made me sick and depressed; the three surgeries hurt, were expensive, and left my belly button looking strange; the Lurpon put me into menopause at the at of 23 for 9 months of my life; the IUD's gave me two children and 20 day periods; and just ignoring it really does not work.

God has granted me two beautiful children and now I can make some decisions. I am no longer a new wife, 21 years old and in pain. I am no longer exploring the hope of children. The anemia from the long cycles is getting worse and I just don't feel like waiting around for the cramps to start keeping me in bed again. I don't want my children to remember their mommy in bed and in pain.

My doctor and I are exploring the possibility of a hysterectomy. And I have to say, I have hope. It won't cure the endo, because I am keeping my ovaries, but it will keep the cramping from coming back and help the anemia so I will have more energy. What a gift that would be.

Surgery is so scary. I always want to write up my will and write my children letters, but the chance to live a normal, active life is enticing. If you think of me in the coming weeks, please send up a little prayer for wisdom for myself, my husband and my doctor. Pray for sure hands and quick recovery. For lots of help from friends and family while I recover. And if you have time, for some good pain killers too!

Our seasonal guests

2010-10-08T09:04:00.002-04:00

I love fall! The cool, crisp nights, the farmers bringing in the harvest, pumpkin picking and hay rides and the overwhelming need to watch one of our favorite movies, The Village. One thing I could do without, however, are our seasonal guests. That's right, the spiders. You see, our home backs directly onto a community common space and while it is lovely for entertaining, playing and general privacy, it is just a large field. The spiders roam and frolic all summer long, enjoying their native environment, but when it starts to get cold, they decide to migrate to warmer climates, namely, my home.

Now please understand, I'm not complaining about some gentle Daddy Long legs or even some little bitty jumping spiders. No, we get wolf spiders. If you have the comfort of never meeting one in a dark room, shoeless, on your way to bed, please feel free to google them. But do please be warned, not only can you see the light of day under them, but you can hear them running across the floor. It just is wrong!

I really don't like to step on them because they crunch and you can feel them under your shoe. My solution, the simple upside down water glass. It is clear so you can see the horror inside (to make sure it did not escape) and heavy enough that even my mighty spiders cannot tip it over. Then, all I have to do it keep Luke away from it until Matthew comes home to rescue me!

On the human front, we are doing great! Luke has figured out how to open medicine bottles, unlock doors and even mastered the toddler knob lock. We had to move him to a big boy bed after I found him neatly perched on the top of his crib rail one morning. So now, he has lots of time to master door knobs! But really, we are so stinkin' proud of that kid. He's just fantastic. He is speaking in more and more full sentences, such as "what is that for?" and wonderful phrases, such as "Dinner's ready!"

The Alice (yes, that is how we refer to her. When you are that awesome, you have the right to be "the" something) is rolling every which direction, grabbing anything within reach, and out eating her brother at dinner. She is so sweet and girly and then decides that she needs to keep pace with her big brother and lets loose with a war cry. I think she will give Luke a run for his money once she is mobile.

We will be doing Alice's 6 month photos, Luke's 2 year photos and our family photo very soon, and I promise to post them as soon as I can!

Happy Birthday Luke!

2010-09-17T08:24:00.004-04:00

My dearest son. My firstborn. Happy Birthday! You are two years old today! You are a miracle of God. Please, never forget that God moved to bring you into this world. You were an amazing sight the first time I saw you.

And you grew into an active baby boy.

But today, you are not a baby anymore. You are a little boy now and I just wanted to say I love you and give you a birthday blessing.

May you grow in wisdom and in favor with God and man.

Soccer! But who is it from?

2010-09-10T15:31:00.002-04:00

Luke is almost 2! And today, he received the toy of his heart's desire. A soccer goal. (And it came in a big box with lots of packing peanuts to boot!)

But we don't know who it is from! If you sent him this lovely gift, would you shoot me an e-mail so I can thank you?

Goodness we have been busy!

2010-09-08T10:25:00.007-04:00

What a summer! I am not looking forward to the cold weather that is quickly approaching, but a break in our schedule will be wonderful. After our trip to Mexico, we packed up 2 weeks later and headed to Ohio to celebrate my Grandparent's 60th wedding anniversary. Of course, Alice got to meet them for the first time. Grandma has been calling me for 4 months now, wanting to get her hands on this little girl!

Of course Grandpa had to take his turn. He's not really a baby person, but he declared Alice to be a fine, sturdy little girl. He also wished Matthew and myself 60 years of walking through life together.

Did I mention that Grandma likes babies?

It is a very good thing that Grandma likes babies, because her six babies had quite a few babies themselves.

I think she had a good time.

On the home front, Alice had her first solid food. She wasn't impressed.

And for Labor Day weekend, we went apple picking.

Got a few snuggles from Daddy,

Found an apple just Luke's size and an equally yummy rock,

Got a few more snuggles,

enjoyed the weather,

and then found a cool stick.

State Fair 2010- Could it get any worse?

2010-08-15T23:07:00.003-04:00

We went to State Fair today. Luke loved the cows, twice. I had really hoped that it would be a beautiful day to enjoy with our little family but it was not ment to be. The temp. in my car read 97 degrees at 4:30 this afternoon and that didn't include the humidity. To make a long story short, we didn't stay long.

One of the best things about State Fair is the food. Fresh French fries with vinegar, lemon shake-ups and elephant ears are once a year treats. But when I saw this sign, I had to take a picture because the idea was so gross. Ahh, nothing like chicken, mashed potatoes and BBQ sauce all in a plastic cup.

And then there was this one. This wasn't as bad to me, if I had been pregnant, but as I had my doctor take care of that little situation during my recent C-Section, I couldn't be tempted to try it.

This one left me in little doubt why Indianapolis is 23rd fattest city in 2010.

But this one. This one made me reach deep and find my happy vegan place. Deep Fried Butter folks. Can't be beat. So if you will excuse me, I need to go find some organic carrot sticks.

What do you do with two children under 2 in mexico?

2010-08-09T17:41:00.006-04:00

Well, you play hide and go seek in empty waiting areas,

And encourage everybody to stretch their legs as often as possible.

You enjoy the quiet moments, as well as the view,

And some get to experience the ocean for the first time.

You get Grandma and Grandpa G to watch the kids so you can have a bonding moment,

And take time out for a family photo shoot before college starts.

You appreciate your little ones for who they are and the progress they are making.

It never hurts to dig a little in the sand.

And who can resist a bathing beauty. . .

With a beautiful smile?

You dig in the sand a little bit more,

And find that you have a very full bed all of a sudden.

If you are lucky, your toddler will sleep a few hours

before wanting to go dig in the sand again.

You do need to make sure you hydrate often in the heat with pina colada's,

and catch a few winks under the cabana.

When you wake up, chewing on your clothes is always a good option.

But you will always remember when you were crazy enough to take on another country with your very young family.

By Water, Spirit, and Spit-Up

2010-07-20T13:44:00.003-04:00

Alice was baptized July 18. It was a beautiful ceremony and we had almost 30 people attend and celebrate with us.

Of course, not everything went perfectly. I thought that I had outwitted my 11 week old by wearing a bib on her until the very last moment. I took it off, proudly marched up the the stage, got to my place, and she proceeded to spit-up all over me, her, and the floor. As you can see, it was running down my arm and onto my foot. Someone in our group kindly handed me her spit-up cloth and my mother helped clean me up. My father-in-law noted, however, that we didn't have time to get it off my foot. Ah the glamorous life of a mother!

The service moved on. . .

and Alice received a blessing and was baptized, with only a small pause to hand off a squirmy Luke to Matthew's dad.

My beautiful, dear friend Sara is Alice's Godmother and read scripture.

What a bunch of people! Can you believe everybody fit into our house for pizza and brownie sundaes after the service?! We are a blessed family indeed to have so many loved ones take the time out of their day to support us.
Alice's dress was beautiful, but I'm kinda bummed it is dry clean only! :)

Spud and Sprout on Etsy!

2010-07-15T19:34:00.003-04:00

Well, I did it! I have an etsy shop! I love my slings so much that I put a few up for sale!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpudandSprout

And a picture of Alice Cute. Luke has decided this is her official name and it stuck!

What have we been doing this summer?

2010-06-27T14:48:00.004-04:00

Eating from the 5 major food groups, including cookie dough. . .

keeping others cool by spraying them with a water cannon. . .

hangin' out on the stairs with our snack cups. . .

bonding with Alice. . .

Catching up with good friends. . .

and learning that sometimes, you have to beat on your own drum in order to march to it.

Ode to my sling(s)

2010-06-24T17:13:00.004-04:00

I love my slings. I have no idea what I would do without them. You see, Matthew and I have a beef with those infant car seats that you carry the baby around in. My first problem is purely physical: I can't lug them. The seat plus child must weigh 20 pounds and only gets heavier as the baby grows. Why not just carry baby? It cuts down on bulk and weight. I also have a deep concern for the baby's neck and head bouncing around down there. Everybody knows not to shake their baby, but it's okay to subject them to brain trauma via car seat? My third real problem is that babies are left in their car seat entirely to much. Babies sleep in them, ride in them, stroll the neighborhood in them and eat in them. I have to confess I was rather indifferent to the whole thing until my husband came home with his latest design project one day before our firstborn had made his appearance in the world. It was a reshaping helmet for an infant that had been left in his car seat to long and his skull was not forming property. I said "wow, that's really horrible" and went out and bought a sling not long after.
Matthew and I are very much into attachment parenting as a result. We take our babies everywhere. Yes, I will even admit to having gone to the bathroom while holding a sleeping baby.

This is good old green reliable. Luke lived in this sling until he was 10 months old and I found out I was expecting again. I have replaced good old greenie, but he is still a large part of my life. You see, greenie does not stay close to my body and I need one hand to make sure baby stays put and I just don't have that extra hand while chasing a 21 month old. Also, sweet little Alice refuses to be put down. (Even sling mommies need to take a shower occasionally.) But she still likes to look around while being held and my new sling lets her. But, greenie has found an invaluable place in my heart as a pool sling. Alice can sit up in it while I wade after Luke.

This is my lovely new sling. I wear it almost everyday. Alice is sleeping in it right now. I honestly think she may be a bit colic. There is just something comforting about having your tummy against a warm mommy that makes everything better.

I was contemplating buying a brand name one when I came across Lovey Duds on Etsy. She sews these really beautiful pieces of fabrics to the front and makes them so much more fashionable. I can even get away with wearing a maternity tank under one because nobody will ever notice.

Matthew has even taken to wearing this lovely, girly sling around the house. He has a manly Kelty front backpack style carrier but has come to admit that our babies like this one better. I promise to post a picture, should I every be able to sneak up on him and snap one.

A boy, his bear and a pair of boots

2010-06-18T19:14:00.002-04:00

This is Bear. He has no formal name and wears a Christmas scarf in the middle of summer. Luke received bear last Christmas and has not put him down since. Okay, I lied. We do not let bear leave the house, except to go to Grandma and Grandpa's house to spend the night. Luke has certainly tried to take bear to the store, water park, church, and any other place a toddler might go, but we won't let him for fear of losing bear. You see, there is no sleeping in our home until bear has been tucked in next to Luke. I remember one night bear was missing for a whole 10 minutes and let me just say there was much gnashing of teeth. (from adults and toddlers alike)

Luke insists that Bear gets equal treatment in life, going so far as to sharing his cup and asking for bear to be diapered.

Bear is also Luke's partner and sometime scapegoat in crime. Please note the dismantled cupboard behind them.

Please pardon the poor photo, but Luke (or bear) jammed something into my card reader and it is no longer working but note the cowboy boots. Luke discovered that he could get them off and on by himself and has been proudly wearing them to play with bear. Oh the joys of being 1.

The Splash Park

2010-06-04T10:58:00.002-04:00

We went to a local park yesterday. It is very close to our home and has a splash park as well as a regular park and is geared for smaller children. During the summer, they show movies on a big screen outside and there is always a nice crowd of mommies and nannies sitting around the edge of the park, watching over their little ones.

Luke had a grand time! He discovered the water cannon and, unknowingly, turned it on a rather large section of very dry mommies. Matthew had to run into the middle of the water park to save them.

Then he ran around for a while, enjoying the freedom . . .
only stopping to play with the occasional fountain.

And then thought about climbing the walls.

But he settled on exploring the non-water park. . .

And the pleasures of wood chips.

I always like to have a picture of me, just to prove I really was there. :)

flowers for mommy

2010-05-24T15:59:00.002-04:00

A beautiful summer day

2010-05-23T18:04:00.003-04:00

We spent the afternoon at our local living history museum today and I must say that our new double stroller was perfect. Luke was able to get in and out. . .

And Alice was very happy as well.

Luke brushed cows,

defended his face from cow kisses. . .

and thought they were great until one stepped on his foot. He then declared that he wanted a new one (because clearly, this one was defective) and Matthew made sure the cow said sorry.
What a beautiful day!

My sweet little Alice

2010-05-10T08:58:00.001-04:00

She has my lips. . .

Her Daddy's eyes. . .

And a head full of hair.

A Mother's heart

2010-05-08T19:50:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful mothers! But I also wanted to wish the women who don't have children or children in heaven a day of peace as well. We have been greatly blessed with our two healthy children, but I know what it is like to suffer through a mother's day with empty arms. And so, to you women, I wish you a day of peace and I want to thank you for being a loving wife, thoughtful daughter and a women of hope.

Big Brother, Little Sister

2010-05-06T09:50:00.002-04:00

I wanted to share a proud mommy moment. At two weeks, Matthew and I aren't getting much sleep and our house looks like we have a toddler and a newborn, but that's okay. Luke is adjusting well and enjoys kissing his little sister, putting her pacifier in for her and occasionally asks to hold her, with help from mommy or daddy of course.

Introducing Alice Lucille Graham

2010-04-21T18:21:00.001-04:00

She was born April 21, 2010 at 8:23 in the morning. She has black, curly hair, a sweet disposition, and looks like her brother Luke.

38 weeks, almost 39

2010-04-18T18:10:00.002-04:00

The baby's room is painted, little sleeping gowns have been washed and placed in drawers, and the baby swing has been taken down from the attic and placed in the office. I think we are ready to have a baby.
My last Dr.'s appointment is Tuesday and then my c-section is scheduled for Wednesday at 8:00AM. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. I got a terrible infection after my last c-section from the preventative antibiotics they gave me. This time, I am refusing all preventative antibiotics in hopes of not repeating my first delivery. I am really hoping to do things like breast feed this time because I couldn't with Luke, due to the medications for the infection.

Here's to hopes for a healthy baby and a quick recovery!!!!

Easter and 37 weeks

2010-04-10T11:43:00.003-04:00

Happy Spring! New life is sprouting up everywhere, including me! I would just like to note that you could navigate the Mississippi by using the veins on my tummy.

We took Luke to his first Easter Egg hunt the Saturday before Easter. They had a wonderful area for walkers 2 and under, so there were not any big kids to knock them over. When the ref blew the whistle to let the kids get the eggs, all the little ones dashed towards the grass, away from their parents and then stopped, as if to say "yes! I got away from Mom and Dad! Now what?"

We had to show Luke that you were supposed to pick up the eggs and put them in your basket. At one point, he found an egg that had opened and the candy had fallen into the grass. He picked up the candy and the egg and tried to put them back together, not really caring about the candy.
And being the first rate parents that we are, we allowed him to have chocolate for breakfast Easter morning. In our defense, however, he took exactly 3 bites, put the bunny down and declared that he was all done.

Can you tell this is a child that had chocolate for breakfast?

36 weeks

2010-04-01T18:44:00.005-04:00

Today is just beautiful! Highs somewhere in the high 70's, breezy and beautiful. Luke and I went out for a little bit and blew bubbles. What fun. He does a great job, but has found the best way to get a bubble out is to put his lips right on the wand. I'm just glad the stuff is not toxic!

On the baby front, we are doing well. The doctor believes that I am going to get to full term, which also means that our insurance will be valid! Both very exciting ideas. We are currently in a countdown for Sunday, which is when our insurance will cover delivery. Our nursery, while not finished, is one step closer because it is now painted and we just need to move the furniture in and put little baby clothes in it. We are cutting it a bit close, but poor Matthew has had to do everything and I'm just thankful it is painted. That seems to be the hardest part.

Here are some photos from our 34 week shoot and Luke's 18 months. He did beautifully! In fact, when the photographer stepped away for a minute, he started asking her to take more!

What a beautiful smile and dimples!

I just love this look!

33 weeks

2010-03-10T10:09:00.003-05:00

33 weeks. I'm glad to be here. I've been having a few grumpy days, very disheartened about facing the next 6 weeks until my scheduled c-section. I've even gotten to the place where I am counting down the days to when my doctor would not stop labor (36 weeks). The contractions and bed rest are hard, but adding being neurotic about my food and measuring my glucose levels just puts it over the top some days. I am looking forward to facing the world again with fingers that don't hurt.

Luke does not understand why mommy can't get down and play, but we find other ways to cuddle and bond. He really enjoys it when I am in bed and Daddy brings him up because he gets to climb all over the big bed.

We enjoy lots of books. . .(Luke loves just about any book and I received a book reader for my birthday!)

I know you can't see the color of his eyes in this one, but they are like clear water. I just love it when the light hits his eyes.

Week 30- let's add another high risk complication

2010-02-15T18:58:00.002-05:00

well, I have something else to add to the list of not so lovely. How's this one: Gestational Diabetes. Really didn't see that one coming. In truth, I didn't see the pre-term labor or the short cervix out there either, but I figured after being put on bed rest for the rest of my pregnancy I'd hit the end. Guess I was wrong. I'm just hoping that weeks 31-37 are uneventful and boring. . .

Pre-term labor update

2010-02-09T22:01:00.003-05:00

We are at 29 weeks! I never thought that this would be a celebration point but it is. I now spend most of my day laying in bed on my side or in our lazy boy watching Luke play. I also take Procardia every 6 hours, or every 4 if I am having contractions.

I fell down 4 steps last week, while I was on bed rest and of course went into the hospital to be watched. Baby is doing great but I had "uterine irritations" even though I had taken anti-contraction medication only 4 hours previous. The nurse thought that they would be full blown contractions if I had not been on the medication.

I'm really not sure where all of this is headed and am anxious for my next doctor's appointment. I am very thankful, however, for all of the help that we are receiving and all the help others have pledged. My doctor wants me reclining as much as possible, which makes it impossible to care for my little guy, make dinner, do the laundry, or go shopping. We are just grateful and humbled by the gift of time that others are giving us.

Bed rest at 28 weeks

2010-02-03T09:03:00.002-05:00

After going in for a routine check-up, the ultrasound tech noticed that my cervix was shorter then it should be. Not dramatically so, but short enough to be worrisome. So my wonderful doctor sent me over to the hospital to make sure I was not contracting and everything was looking great until she unhooked the baby monitor (who by the way is doing great!). I had 3 contractions in 15 minutes and continued to have them.

Needless to say, it is to early to be having contractions. So they gave me a shot of something and then they gave me a pill of something and the pill calmed my uterus down to a point where they were comfortable to send me home. I am now on that medication every six hours until my doctor tells me I can stop and I am supposed to keep pressure off of my cervix as much as possible. So, bed rest.

Matthew is going to stay home as much as he can and we'll have to figure out the rest as it comes. Your prays for our little one would be greatly appriciated.

Our Potato World

2010-02-01T12:53:00.008-05:00

We purchased a large Mr. Potato Head set for Luke for Christmas and now that we are in the midst of boring winter, our evenings are spent playing blocks and coming up with more and more creative faces for Mr. Potato Head. I must admit that Matthew is the true genius when it comes to this art. Luke is always delighted at his "Ptato" faces.

Behold, the 2010 additions the Mr. Potato Head family.

Here we have Gunter the Ukranian oil rig worker

Yao, the potato Cow and his proud owner, Ranchero *

This unnamed duo is sold in the "Like Mother, Like Daughter" combo kit. Notice, father didn't stick around. *

This neighborhood boy took notice of the freakish additions. *
and to end on a less offensive note.... *

Just a cute picture of Luke. He climbed up all by himself and could not figure out how to get down.

* Names, captions, and unholy potato creations courtesy of Matthew

Formula for Haiti

2010-01-25T10:58:00.002-05:00

Hello lovely people in bloggy world,

I know that everybody is being overwhelmed with the needs of Haiti right now. Matthew and I wanted to help, but just weren't sure how. We don't like to just give money to large charities because we don't feel it is very personal and we are also concerned that that money will not go towards helping those people as fast as possible.

When we found out that my mother-in-law is headed to Haiti this week as part of a medical assistance group, we thought this would be the best way to help. The elder Mrs. G said that her group was getting stories of orphanages and aid groups giving babies only one ounce of formula per child because it was all they had to give.

Having a very young son and another child on the way, this broke our hearts. I would just like to put the information out there so that if you feel the need to help in some way and know a person going to Haiti, please send what you can. MRE's aren't exactly made for small babies to be able to eat.

Happy Holidays! and our snow day

2010-01-08T15:29:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. After a few learning attempts, Luke finally got into the whole opening packages thing and would go from one package to the next, making exactly one rip before moving on. Ah well, that is what Daddy is for. This was one of his favorites, a firehouse. He plays with it daily and I am always finding building blocks, cars, and little people in it.

For New Years, we decided to treat ourselves to the most unhealthy things we could think of, and because we are Veggies, we decided to go all out and eat meat and fries from our favorite fast food restaurants. Luke was content with his french fries until he realized that he could remove Daddy's burgers from the cute little boxes they came in and decided that if Daddy was eating it, so would he. We just looked at each other, shrugged, and let him. So, at 15 months old, our son had his first taste of meat. We are okay with letting him try things as he gets older. We are veggies in our home, but that does not mean he will be when he grows up and we are good with that. Everybody has to make that decision for themselves. However, I do have to put it out there, that while Matthew and I may fudge the meat rules for our children every once in a while, we do expect our parents to strictly adhere to a no meat rule with them. Parents prerogative I guess.And our first real snow of the season was great fun. . .

Matthew pulled Luke around in his sled, getting a great work out. . .

And Luke had a great time riding, even pulling out the sign language to ask for "more."

I would just like to add that I was able to get my snow pants on, despite being 24 weeks pregnant. They didn't zip and I had to find some really stretched out long johns to cover the lower part of my tummy, but I got them on!

4D ultrasound pictures

2009-12-23T11:46:00.002-05:00

We had our 4D ultrasound Friday. It was such a blessing to have both of my Grandmothers present as well as both sets of parents. The only person missing was Matthew's 91 year old grandmother. The baby is a bit small, compared to the 4D ultrasounds done around 30 weeks, but I don't mind. My grandmother from Ohio was in town and we just had to take the opportunity. Besides, this is about the time we had Luke's done and his were beautiful as well!

Baby kept wiggling into my placenta, so it was hard to get a really good face shot, but I love seeing the little faces and the little fingers and toes.

Christmas at the Zoo

2009-12-14T10:45:00.003-05:00

We went to Christmas at the Zoo this weekend and had a great time. Luke's all time favorite exhibit is the Oceans house because he can get right up to the glass, look at the fish and try to pet the sharks.

Of course, he enjoyed some of the other animals, such at the "cats" (tigers), the "moos" (cows), and the animals that went "woof woof" (bears). He also enjoyed the dolphin show, exclaiming "ohhhhh" when they would jump out the water.

You can't, however, enjoy Christmas at the Zoo without taking in those wonderful seasonal festivities, such as stomping on all the leaves and having Daddy push you extra fast through the lighted trees to which the appropriate response is "weeeeeee!"

We are preparing for a wonderful Christmas and hope that the actives you and your family participate in bring warm memories for years to come!

Healthy Baby Graham

2009-12-09T10:07:00.002-05:00

We had our 20 week ultrasound yesterday! I am pleased to report a healthy baby and healthy mommy! Our baby is now 12 oz. and very active. I feel little kicks and rolls all the time.

Please note the baby's hand by it's head.

Just a cute little hand shot because it's a cute little baby!

And this is the position the baby preferred to be in. We all had a good laugh because it seems like such an awkward position to be in.

Planned C-section birth plan

2009-12-04T22:55:00.004-05:00

Hello Bloggy world,

If you had a planned c-section birth plan, I would love to see it. I keep looking on the Internet and I've found a few, but not to many of them. I'm almost 20 weeks, and am starting to feel the urge to "prepare." I would appreciate any help.

thanks!

Belly update

2009-12-02T10:18:00.002-05:00

A fun picture at 19 weeks. We go in next week for our big ultrasound, even though, I already know who this is. Luke continues to be fascinated by my belly, but I think it might be the stage he is in. If I don't put a onesie on him, he lifts his shirt all day long to stare at his belly button. It is really cute until he starts doing it to strangers. Gets a little bit awkward at that point, but who cares. He's cute and 14 months old.

Taking all bets. . .

2009-11-23T15:56:00.004-05:00

Hello! Sorry it has been so very long again. I do have some pictures from our weekend at Cedar Point, but we lost the camera. :) I'm sure it will turn up one of these days. I would take updated pictures, but I don't want to share what the inside of my house looks like right now. Overall, I have been feeling better and getting some things done but I'm afraid that it does not look like much.

On the Christmas front, we are done shopping for Luke and his goodies from Santa are hidden in the spare bedroom. We forgot the other day and he walked in, eyes wide. You see, most of the gifts we purchased are safely hidden in bags or already wrapped (thank you Pottery Barn Kids) but there is one toy that is going to just get a bow Christmas morning because it is a 4 foot pony he can ride. Needless to say, Luke is already in love. What boy wouldn't be.

The smallest Graham continues to grow and has begun to let me know of his or her presence. I got kicked all the way through service yesterday and enjoyed every minute of it. Just to put it out there, I know the gender of our child!!! And no, I'm not telling. Matthew does not want to know and I am trying to honor his wishes. However, I simply had to know. I'm one of those Mommy's that has nightmares about bringing my baby home and not having anything for the wee little one. So, not to copy a certain popular book series, are you Team Boy or Team Girl?

Falling into God's plan

2009-10-28T18:47:00.000-04:00

I know I don't usually publish a whole lot of serious stuff and truth be told, I have a whole lot to be grateful for. God has blessed us richly and we like to celebrate His goodness. Matthew and I are always seeking God's will with the direction of our lives and He likes to surprise us in the direction that He is going to take us. The thing is, we seek, and seek and seek and feel that we have a good direction and we start in that direction only to have God spin us 180 and take us in a new way we never even thought of.

Take Luke for example. We tried to conceive for years and after tests, and doctors, and prayer, we decided to adopt. Three months later, I was pregnant and we had no maternity coverage. Talk about surprises. But the thing is, God provided. He provided insurance coverage through my temp job and has been providing enough for us to make payments on the rest. I'm not saying there has been a lot of extras and we have had to make due without a few things (like matching plates, new shoes, and date night at a non-Taco Bell establishment) but there has always been enough.

After Luke, we decided that we had had our miracle and we were considering our options again. I know that God is capable of doing anything and I do believe that, but when you receive the gift your heart desires most, you are content. Sure, God could do another great work, but I didn't dream of asking.

Funny how that works sometimes. I didn't dare ask, but God is gracious and blesses us even when we don't ask. I found out I was pregnant 10 weeks ago. We are, again, without maternity coverage. I have been staying at home with my little guy, so the temp agency insurance thing is out and we are having a planned C-section because my body does not work properly. We aren't even all on the same insurance because we can't get Luke covered due to his seizures in the past year. sigh. It is really tough to look down the barrel of a 18,000 dollar gun and know that the trigger is going off April 21.

The thing is, we are just falling into God's plan and trusting that He is going to provide. He has not brought us here to watch us struggle and fail but rather to make His glory and miracle that much bigger.

So to the doctors, who said it wouldn't happen, my heart with its fears and the hospital billing department. . . bring it. God knows what He is doing.

Trunk-or-Treat

2009-10-26T10:55:00.002-04:00

My parent's church was hosting a trunk-or-treat so we dressed up our little Duck and had him gather some candy for us. In all fairness, we left him the suckers and the M&M's. But I just think he's a bundle of cuteness and had to share!

Last Week

2009-10-26T10:36:00.005-04:00

Sorry to be so behind in our fall fun updates! Our falls just go into fast forward sometimes. Last weekend, we went to Russel Farms, a small family run farm in our area that has corn mazes, a petting zoo, pumpkin patch and hay rides.

This won't be our Christmas picture because Luke was not smiling, but I still think it's fun!

Luke and his Daddy in the corn maze.

Then we went to look at the goats. Luke really enjoyed this part of the day. However, he was a bit confused. He liked to walk up the the goats ends instead of their fronts and he was also under the impression that they needed a good, solid thumping. The goats did not agree.

Luke and Christian were able to rally together against the goats when one decided to nibble on Christian's pacifier.

Next came the hay ride and pumpkin patch. Luke thought this one had great potential.

And wondered why Daddy thought it was a bit to big to carry out the patch. (Keeping in mind that Daddy had to carry the pumpkin and Luke.)

So, Luke decided he would take matters into his own hands and eventually had to concede defeat.

We were able to compromise at the end of the day and find a pumpkin that made us all happy!

random bits

2009-10-05T11:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Fall! There is a chill in the air that I love. It makes me want to carve pumpkins, drink apple cider and start making my Christmas shopping list. I will be 11 weeks tomorrow and I am hoping that means a quick end to my morning sickness. Matthew will be a very happy man on that day. Poor guy has been doing all of the shopping and cooking.

This past weekend was one of our last peaceful, lazy weekends for a long time. The next few months are full of family outings, a trip to Cedar Point, bridal showers for my soon to be sister-in-law and getting ready for the holidays.

Matthew's mom's birthday was this past weekend and she requested a picture of Luke in one of Matthew's old outfits. We, of course, could not let a picture taking event pass without spiking the little guy's hair.

9 week ultrasound

2009-09-25T09:03:00.002-04:00

We had our first ultrasound this week. The Tater Tot is doing well by all accounts. We got to see the baby move and wiggle around and hear its heart beat of 178. I even gained 2 pounds, despite my morning sickness. We took Luke with us to see the baby for the first time. He kept pointing at the screen as if to say, "hey, something is wrong with the TV, where are the Backyardagains?"

My wonderful doctor and I discussed VBAC vs C-Section and decided that a planned C-Section was the best course for me due to the fact that I got stuck at 9.5 cm last time. So, we even have a birthday for our little person. April 21, 2010! Matthew is bummed that it is not on 4/20, but I am personally relieved.

Happy 1st Birthday Luke!

2009-09-20T20:39:00.004-04:00

Our Luke is one year old now!!! We celebrated his birthday on the 12th but I've been so sick I just have not had a chance to post about it yet.

We had lots of balloons, which Luke likes to point to and be told what they are. . .

He also likes to bat at them. . .

We also had family and friends to sing Happy Birthday (please pardon my bad hair day, I was doing well to be standing up at this point.)

And Matthew and I blew out his candle, even though he was more interested in Grandma taking the picture. . .

but he got his own cake, which, I think, was very cool. . .
And after tasting it many times. . .

decided to eat the plate.

And, of course, no cake eating celebration would be complete without sticking some in your ear.
Luke's sign for "all done."

It was a beautiful day. He is now signing eat, cup, more, and all done. He can say Mommy, Daddy, light, up, ball, and wiggle, wiggle, wiggle. And he is such a blessing in our lives.

Our first ultrasound is tomorrow. We are praying for a healthy heartbeat and active baby. We are also praying that my morning sickness ends soon. I'm on zofran three time a day but it only helps a bit. I have been struggling to just take care of Luke during the day. House work is not getting done, others are shopping for me and poor Matthew has to cook dinner when he comes home from work. I enjoy being pregnant, but could really just skip this whole first trimester sick, uncertain, waiting period.

Pancakes and Hair cuts

2009-09-06T17:18:00.003-04:00

Matthew has been getting up with Luke on the weekends because all I can manage is to sit up, look at my feet and lay back down. Luke enjoys this time with Daddy because Daddy lets him do all kinds of fun things, like play in his glass of water, run butt naked through the upstairs, and try to eat what Daddy is eating, no matter what. (think nacho chips and salsa) This Saturday, I finally stumbled downstairs to this sight.

Daddy and Luke were making Mommy pancakes!

We then proceeded to Cookie Cutters for Luke's first hair cut. His baby curls were very cute, but they were starting to look a bit shaggy so we decided it was time. He got to sit in a cool race car with working steering wheel and watch Veggie Tales. He had a brief moment of anxiety about the strange lady touching him, but he got over it when Daddy held his hand.

I think his new look is spiffy!! He looked like such a little man holding Daddy's hand on the way out of church this morning.

Monkey Joes

2009-08-21T08:31:00.003-04:00

Our Church hosted a family night at a local bounce house this week and we had a great time. In addition to the huge bounce areas for the big kids, they had two just for the little ones. Luke had a blast. He climbed, slid, and dived for over an hour.

He even decided that going down the slide on his tummy head first was way more fun then the conventional way.

Here we are hiding. . .

And here is Luke about to tackle Matthew. He is such a boy already. Matthew and Luke wrestle in the living room all the time.

And here I am child wrangling. He was not ready to go home and I just had to grab him.

Baby #2 news (other wise known already as the Tatar tot) My hormone levels have been above perfect. So all is well!

I have some little news. . .

2009-08-18T08:03:00.002-04:00

Very little news. About the size of a poppy seed in fact.

It will be around 8 lbs. news in April.

Cowboys Luke and Christian

2009-08-16T08:42:00.002-04:00

This is Luke's best buddy Christian. Luke and Christian are about 3 months apart and cousins. Christian got a super cool cowboy outfit and Luke wanted to fit in, so I pulled out his hat and boots that are still way to big for him. Christian's Mommy and I have a Christmas surprise planned with these pictures for my grandma. (shhh, it's a secret!)

Sometimes, Luke takes things from Christian. Then he pretends to give them back, snatching them away at the very last moment. Luke always finds this game funny. I keep telling him that Christian isn't always going to be so sedentary and that he will have his revenge, but Luke is having a hard time seeing past the present.

Sometimes, though, Luke and Christian are of the same mind. If one starts crying, the other is soon to follow in support. They also like to hold hands and talk to each other. In this particular picture, they both want to get Luke's hat.

mommy and me swimming classes

2009-08-13T14:57:00.003-04:00

Luke and I started swimming classes this week. We had so much fun. The pool is a rehabilitation pool, so it is nice and warm and the mommies and babies don't get cold. We worked on floating, kicking, going under water and hitting beach balls around the pool. Luke and I came home and took a solid nap.

I was surprised, however, that I was the only mommy in a bikini. It made me a bit self conscience to be honest. Not because anybody said anything or because I am unhappy with my body, but because I stuck out. Everybody else had these mommy suits on that covered them completely. I'm not about to trade in my sexy two piece, but it makes me feel sad for the other mom's that they are unhappy with their bodies.

As a photographer, I tend to see more women's bodies then most, through pregnancy shoots ranging from near Victorian covering to completely nude and from pinup calendars. (Those are so much fun. Ladies bring their husband's football jersey's, favorite lingerie, honeymoon bikini's, and other outfits to make their own private calendar. Husband's LOVE them.) And I think as mom's we really are to hard on ourselves. So our stomach sticks out a bit more then it used to. So what we have a few more stretch marks. Ladies, we are creating life here! It is hard work! And you know what, our husbands still think we are sexy! I believe I have more battle wounds then most showing on my skin and heaven knows that after 3 laproscapies, my belly button will never be the same but hey, this is what I am. (And I can still rock a bikini.)

The Indiana State Fair

2009-08-09T09:34:00.002-04:00

Luke and I start our day with breakfast. He likes puffs and organic yogurt in the morning. I love our high chair. It converts to a toddler seat when he is done with it and it matches our woodwork, but the designer really didn't think his design through. My 10 month old is determined. He has unending patience and the drive to see things through. And so, when he discovered that the cool plastic tray on top wiggles, he knew he could get it off. After he is done eating, he simply lifts in the right spot and tosses the entire tray on the floor. One evening, after cleaning up mac and cheese off the carpet, chairs, floor, baby, and wall, I decided to fix my problem. You can see my solution below.

We took Luke to The Indiana State Fair yesterday. He loved the goats and cows.

And his Daddy even found a fun fountain to play in.

Matthew ate his usual 3 grilled cheese sandwiches, I got some fried veggies, and Luke enjoyed eating a banana. It was a long, hot day, but it is always fun going.

$200.00

2009-08-09T09:23:00.002-04:00

Our little boy has taken his first steps! Now, he is just practicing and we are going to have to do another level of baby proofing. The dishwasher lock may never be the same again after Luke figures out how to use it now that he is tall enough. But because our little boy has taken his first steps, it was time for a swingset. I started pricing them out at around $1500 to $3,00 and thought, "Self, it is time to get creative."

Like many neighborhoods right now, ours has quite a few houses for sale. One of them had a lovely swingset out back and I knew the house was empty. I called the realitor for the house and explained that I was interested in the swingset out back and wondered if the owner would be willing to sell it to me for $200.00 The answer came back YES so Luke's Grandpa's, Daddy, and two uncles came over to move it for him. It was finished Friday but we have not had a chance to swing on it. Maybe we can do that today. The slide is not up yet, but that's okay.

Kings Island

2009-07-29T11:51:00.003-04:00

Just some fun pictures from Kings Island this past weekend. We had a great time. Luke is a bit short for most of the kiddy rides (he needs to be 36 inches) and he needs to be able to walk on most, but we still found some things he could ride. I think his favorite was the train.

We were able to sit in the non-moving seats for the 3-D Sponge Bob show. . .

and Luke likes the carousel. . .

But the best ride in the whole park is on Daddy's shoulders.

Bulldozers, pots and pans

2009-07-27T16:52:00.003-04:00

I know I have not posted in a while. Sorry! Our summers are just packed full and getting fuller. For example, this past weekend, we celebrated my Grandmother's 75th birthday with a surprise party, got a quote for our new patio, attended Symphony on the Prairie and danced the night away, and topped off the weekend with a day trip to Kings Island.

Luke, of course, attended all functions with us. His favorite was the Symphony. He is afraid of grass, so he just sits on the blanket and listens to the music, bouncing on his knees when it excites him and claps like and adult when the song is over.

But, I thought I would show some of Luke's favorite things to do today.

He likes to drag my pots out and bang on them like a drum. . .

He like to stand from a seated position and try to open locked cabinets. . . (please ignore my dirty dishes)

And, he likes to push his bulldozer around the living room. . .

Goodbye!

Our week without Matthew

2009-07-12T21:46:00.003-04:00

After two long weeks in China, Matthew is finally home! I, missing my best friend this past week, decided to take off for the week and visited my parents, who were at Cedar Point, and our grandparents who live in Ohio.

I started off my week at Symphony on the Prairie, which I love. The live orchestra, the sunsets, and the evening sky are just perfect. The ISO's 4th of July concert is one of the best shows around with fireworks at the end. They do dramatic readings to period music, The Star Spangled Banner with real "bombs bursting in air", and Howitzer cannons to add to the Overture of 1812. Later in the summer they bring in top talent and do vocals with the music and open the dance floor. Matthew and I are really looking forward to showing off our new steps!

4th of July Fireworks were at Cedar Point. Luke loves the colors. We watched them from behind the Farris wheel. While at Cedar Point, Luke rode the antique cars, the boat ride, and the carousal. We also had a great time at the water park. They have a wonderful baby pool and Luke was able to crawl around, splashing the water and playing in the fountains. He even shocked me by keeping his sun hat on.

Then we headed south and had a very nice visit with Matthew's grandma, who will be 91 this summer and a relaxing couple of days with my grandma and grandpa. This is a picture of us on a wildlife tour. The animals just tilt their heads back and let you drop food into their mouth. Luke enjoyed all the animals, but especially enjoyed Grandma Birskovich's cat and Grandpa Tilmant's geese.

I am blessed that I had somewhere to go and didn't have to sit at home waiting for Matthew but am glad to have my little family back together again. We went to the water park and playground today, just enjoying being on the same continent. I am hoping to get Matthew to guest blog later this evening, so keep an eye out for it!

Luke's 9 month pictures part 2

2009-06-24T19:25:00.001-04:00

Not to many more pictures, but we always try to do Mommy and Daddy with Luke.

Luke's 9 month pictures part 1

2009-06-23T12:10:00.004-04:00

We have been so very busy as of late. Luke got another vaccine, and had a fever for 5 days. According to the Dr., it was not the vaccine that caused his high fever for that long, but I have my doubts. Anyway, we finally got around to taking Luke's 9 month pictures, part one. We will be working on the rest later today, I hope.

We bought this huge sucker on vacation and I've been dying to use it. However, Luke took one lick. . .And neatly tucked it under his arm for safe keeping.

During the photo shoot, Luke crawled over to Matthew, used him as support and then let go, standing all by himself. Of course, my camera was off at the time. So, this is the best I got.

What a happy, beautiful little guy. We are so blessed to have him. Even when he is not feeling well, he is still joyful.

The Green Toad Video

2009-06-18T19:53:00.000-04:00

http://www.soapboxmg.com/gt.mov

Check out Matthew's latest and greatest!

I want my week back!

2009-06-08T08:51:00.003-04:00

We were on vacation this week. Low on funds and time, we decided to head to Gatlinburg, TN for a week. Renting a condo and just spending some quite time together as a family sounded nice. Usually when we travel, we go somewhere we can eat out (vegetarian friendly). Knowing full well that Gatlinburg would be worse then Indy or Las Vegas, we took lots of premade veggie favorites so that we didn't have to do a lot of cooking. It sounded like a lovely plan. We planned as best we could.

However, the best laid plans sometime fail. The week before we left, Luke decided to get the stomach flu, an ear infection and pink eye. My mother in law graciously watched the little guy a few days during the week so that I could catch up on my sleep. (We sat up all night holding him because the fever caused more seizures.) And after a doctor's visit to confirm the ear infection, we had antibiotic and a plan. Or so we thought. Friday, we were going to leave Sunday, I started to come down with a fever. 99.4. I thought, okay, I'll just call Matthew home and sleep this off. An hour later, my fever was up to 101.4. I took lots of Alieve and went to bed. By Saturday, I could no longer speak and had to have my mom take over a shoot for me. Sunday rolled around and Matthew bravely packed us up while I laid and moaned on the chair. We already paid and it seemed a waste to not go.

I would really like to say that it got better from here but it didn't. Matthew came down with it too. By Monday, we could only grunt affectionately at each other, reducing ourselves to playing Rock, Paper, Scissors to see who should get up with the baby. Tuesday my illness moved into my chest, making me sound like a 30 year smoker. Wednesday night I was begging to come home. It really didn't take much. Thursday we packed up and headed home, stopping at the med check on the way into town. Turns out I had a double ear infection, a sinus infection, a chest infection that was quickly moving into phenomena and pink eye.

Hmm, did I mention that ant invasion? Really couldn't leave that out.

I'm really hoping next year's vacation goes better. It's in Cancun.

one more seizure. . .

2009-05-28T10:05:00.002-04:00

So, we thought we had this whole seizure thing figured out. Turns out, not as much as we thought. Luke got his first real illness 24 hours ago. I am thankful that it has waited this long. We kept illness away all winter, which I think is pretty good. (Go figure, the very first time we put him in the nursery, he gets sick). He got the stomach flu, always a fun first choice, so I am going on very little sleep right now. I was planning on putting him in his crib for the night because he had done very well for about 6 hours but as I was holding him, rocking him to sleep, he had another seizure. Sigh. It made me nervous, so I called the doctor and explained that Luke has seizures, there is a specific name for the kind he has, but I don't remember it right now, anyway, the doctor explained that children with this kind of condition are much more likely to get them when they have a fever. Even a "controlled" fever. (on ibuprofen)

Now I have the great debate about calling his neurologist. She said that if he continued to have them, he would need to be put on medication. However, he does not have them if he does not have a fever, so, I think he's okay.

so many decisions. I think I'll get a few more hours of sleep and then make that choice.

I'm so against spanking. . Am I the only one?

2009-05-26T08:08:00.002-04:00

I'm going to go out on a limb here and make a few enemies. Why not. As my son gets older, I feel more and more ostracized by my other friends who have children because of the spanking issue. I don't know if it is them or me, but the point is, we differ greatly. My question is, are there any other Evangelicals on the face of the planet besides me that feel this way?

My number one problem with spanking is that you are hitting your child with intent to cause pain. We won't accept this sort of behavior between spouses, or boss/worker, or even in our correctional system. We are currently in a great debate over torture on dangerous criminals and if we should hold ourselves to a greater and higher standard. So why should it be okay with a person who is much smaller then you? My second problem is that most people hit their children out of anger. They did something you don't like or embarrassed you, so you strike them. They don't know why they were just hit and they don't know how they can avoid getting to the end of your short fuse. I understand this is not the correct way to spank, but it still comes down to "you are going to strike your child with intent to cause pain."

I read Dr. Leman's book "How to make children mind without losing yours." I thought it was good and plan to use most of the principles laid down. But I did not agree that spanking is occasionally okay. I also did not agree with his stance on homework, but that's beside the point.

Does this mean I plan to raise a child that runs with the wolves? NO! Discipline is essential. I just don't think that spanking is a teaching tool. There are so many other ways to teach your child.

Also, I know well the verse " spare the rod, spoil the child" but if you really read Dr. Leman's book, then you'll know that this verse does not refer to beating your child. Also folks, lets be on the level here. If you are going to quote that verse to me, I can quote a dozen more right back to you that you are not following at this very minute. For example, how about Paul's rules about women? Did you wear jewelery at any point in your adult life? How about braiding your hair? Ever spoken publicly on religious matters? Okay then. Still wanna fight the Bible game? How about Jesus' words to all Christian's that we should sell everything we have, take up our crosses and follow him? Okay then.

The Bible verse I do try to keep in mind when I say no is this. . .

Proverbs 22:6 (New International Version)
6 Train [a] a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

5 years

2009-05-21T10:06:00.003-04:00

Matthew and I will be celebrating our 5 year anniversary tomorrow. We are dropping the little guy off with his grandpa and taking off for the day. I can't believe it has been five years. I know that I am a different person now and I am proud to say that we have a stronger, better marriage then we did 4 years ago, or even last year. I always enjoy reflecting on our "tally" so to speak of the past years, so for your reading pleasure, here it is:

we have had one baby, 3 trips to the emergency room, 2 houses, 4 surgeries, 2 fabulous cruises, 12 weeks of dance lessons, 4 years of being vegetarian, lived in 2 states, 3 cars (2 working), one motorcycle, one camping trip that ended up in a hotel suite, one tetanus shot, and too many dreams to count.

We have crawling folks

2009-05-18T08:01:00.003-04:00

We got our baby gate up just in time. He has been working on the skill for the last few weeks and he has finally taken those first movements. Alas, nothing in the house is safe. I find myself saying strange things, like, no, we don't eat computer ink, or no, we don't chew on shoes. (yuck by the way) He has also started to clap, which is the cutest thing ever. We also discovered that certain numbers are funny. He especially like the number 1. (We were playing Chutes and Ladders in a pizza place yesterday.)

We also went on our first shoe hunt yesterday. Matthew and I were having a lovely stroll in the arts district of Indianapolis on Sunday, happy to be outside and seeing different things when Matthew glanced down and said "didn't he have two shoes?" We searched high and low for that shoe, asking shopkeepers and strolling couples if they had seen a baby shoe. I am now contemplating high tops that lace up to his knee. :)

Viva Las Vegas

2009-05-11T12:34:00.002-04:00

Hello all you lovely people. We were in Vegas all of last week for the Hardware trade show. Matthew has been on a design team for quite a while now for a new paint brush and this was THE show to show it off. In my wifely pride, I would like to announce that the product received a major award during the show and I couldn't be prouder of my husband, who has been doing most of the design work!

I am glad that we got to go, but have to say that I won't be vacationing in Vegas anytime during my lifetime. Between the jet lag, the high 90 degree weather and his teething, Luke was not his normal cheerful self and instead decided to be a cute little monster. I would also like to mention that despite it's closeness to the West Coast, Las Vegas has none of the veggie food I need to eat to sustain myself. When decadence is the name of the game, who wants to eat veggies and non-meat proteins? I do!!!!

Moving on to the parts I did enjoy, Matthew and I walked the strip twice, stopping both times at the Bellegio Fountains. I think the fountains are one of the best parts of Vegas. They are just so beautiful and over the top.

We also went indoor skydiving. Please excuse the fuzzy picture, I had to use a long exposure to get a bright shot, but I think you can get the idea. This is Matthew. You put on these funny looking suites and helmets and fall forward onto this huge fan (with netting across the top) and as long as you hold a good form, you fly. I am going to have to put this on my top ten coolest things I have ever done.

In other Luke related news, he now has two teeth and is up on his hands and knees rocking back and forth. I don't think it will be long before we need a really big baby gate to protect my studio.

Chubby baby legs

2009-04-27T09:27:00.002-04:00

I just thought I would share Luke's chubby baby legs. Pale and pasty they may be, but I love them.

We will be headed to Las Vegas very soon and I will make sure we take lots of pictures. If you have traveled with a baby on an airplane recently, please feel free to leave any tips. I'm a bit nervous about keeping a 7 month old entertained and contained during the 4 and 1/2 hour trip.

Christmas Decorations and First Teeth

2009-04-21T09:54:00.003-04:00

I would just like to share that yes, our Christmas wreath is still hanging on our door.

As you can see, a momma bird thought it would be the perfect place for her babies and we just don't have the heart to take it down.

In other baby news, Luke has pushed his first tooth through. I suspect that a second is not far behind. He spends his time running his finger over it, trying to figure out what that strange thing in his mouth is.

Can you see it?

And he still has those blue eyes.

For Joy Comes in the Morning

2009-04-12T20:24:00.008-04:00

handsome little guy. Can you see his tie?

We refer to this as a baby sandwich. Great fun.

Luke pulling Grandma Graham's hair.

And this is how every holiday ends for the little guy. He is always just so tired by the end of the day.

Hope you had a blessed Easter.

The Light of the World has been taken from us. . .

2009-04-10T10:17:00.001-04:00

Luke 23

1-2Then they all took Jesus to Pilate and began to bring up charges against him. They said, "We found this man undermining our law and order, forbidding taxes to be paid to Caesar, setting himself up as Messiah-King."
3Pilate asked him, "Is this true that you're 'King of the Jews'?"
"Those are your words, not mine," Jesus replied.
4Pilate told the high priests and the accompanying crowd, "I find nothing wrong here. He seems harmless enough to me."
5But they were vehement. "He's stirring up unrest among the people with his teaching, disturbing the peace everywhere, starting in Galilee and now all through Judea. He's a dangerous man, endangering the peace."
6-7When Pilate heard that, he asked, "So, he's a Galilean?" Realizing that he properly came under Herod's jurisdiction, he passed the buck to Herod, who just happened to be in Jerusalem for a few days.
8-10Herod was delighted when Jesus showed up. He had wanted for a long time to see him, he'd heard so much about him. He hoped to see him do something spectacular. He peppered him with questions. Jesus didn't answer—not one word. But the high priests and religion scholars were right there, saying their piece, strident and shrill in their accusations.
11-12Mightily offended, Herod turned on Jesus. His soldiers joined in, taunting and jeering. Then they dressed him up in an elaborate king costume and sent him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became thick as thieves. Always before they had kept their distance.
13-16Then Pilate called in the high priests, rulers, and the others and said, "You brought this man to me as a disturber of the peace. I examined him in front of all of you and found there was nothing to your charge. And neither did Herod, for he has sent him back here with a clean bill of health. It's clear that he's done nothing wrong, let alone anything deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go."
18-20At that, the crowd went wild: "Kill him! Give us Barabbas!" (Barabbas had been thrown in prison for starting a riot in the city and for murder.) Pilate still wanted to let Jesus go, and so spoke out again.
21But they kept shouting back, "Crucify! Crucify him!"
22He tried a third time. "But for what crime? I've found nothing in him deserving death. I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go."
23-25But they kept at it, a shouting mob, demanding that he be crucified. And finally they shouted him down. Pilate caved in and gave them what they wanted. He released the man thrown in prison for rioting and murder, and gave them Jesus to do whatever they wanted.
Skull Hill 26-31As they led him off, they made Simon, a man from Cyrene who happened to be coming in from the countryside, carry the cross behind Jesus. A huge crowd of people followed, along with women weeping and carrying on. At one point Jesus turned to the women and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, don't cry for me. Cry for yourselves and for your children. The time is coming when they'll say, 'Lucky the women who never conceived! Lucky the wombs that never gave birth! Lucky the breasts that never gave milk!' Then they'll start calling to the mountains, 'Fall down on us!' calling to the hills, 'Cover us up!' If people do these things to a live, green tree, can you imagine what they'll do with deadwood?"
32Two others, both criminals, were taken along with him for execution.
33When they got to the place called Skull Hill, they crucified him, along with the criminals, one on his right, the other on his left.
34-35Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them; they don't know what they're doing."
Dividing up his clothes, they threw dice for them. The people stood there staring at Jesus, and the ringleaders made faces, taunting, "He saved others. Let's see him save himself! The Messiah of God—ha! The Chosen—ha!"
36-37The soldiers also came up and poked fun at him, making a game of it. They toasted him with sour wine: "So you're King of the Jews! Save yourself!"
38Printed over him was a sign: this is the king of the jews.
39One of the criminals hanging alongside cursed him: "Some Messiah you are! Save yourself! Save us!"
40-41But the other one made him shut up: "Have you no fear of God? You're getting the same as him. We deserve this, but not him—he did nothing to deserve this."
42Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you enter your kingdom."
43He said, "Don't worry, I will. Today you will join me in paradise."
44-46By now it was noon. The whole earth became dark, the darkness lasting three hours—a total blackout. The Temple curtain split right down the middle. Jesus called loudly, "Father, I place my life in your hands!" Then he breathed his last.
47When the captain there saw what happened, he honored God: "This man was innocent! A good man, and innocent!"
48-49All who had come around as spectators to watch the show, when they saw what actually happened, were overcome with grief and headed home. Those who knew Jesus well, along with the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a respectful distance and kept vigil.
50-54There was a man by the name of Joseph, a member of the Jewish High Council, a man of good heart and good character. He had not gone along with the plans and actions of the council. His hometown was the Jewish village of Arimathea. He lived in alert expectation of the kingdom of God. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Taking him down, he wrapped him in a linen shroud and placed him in a tomb chiseled into the rock, a tomb never yet used. It was the day before Sabbath, the Sabbath just about to begin.
55-56The women who had been companions of Jesus from Galilee followed along. They saw the tomb where Jesus' body was placed. Then they went back to prepare burial spices and perfumes. They rested quietly on the Sabbath, as commanded.

So Very Tired

2009-04-07T08:37:00.002-04:00

It's official. Luke is teething and I am very tired. He was up for almost 3 hours from 12:20 to 3:30 last night. Thankfully, Matthew took him from 12:30 to 1:30, but he could not find the Tylenol, so my hour of bliss went something like this:

Me: trying to sleep through the crying downstairs (I can tell he put Luke down and that was not what Luke wanted)

the noise grows steadily stronger with Matthew bursting into the room declaring

"I can't find the Tylenol." I sigh and reply "it's in the diaper bag where it always is." And he exists. I close my eyes and drift off to sleep, awaking to more crying an hour later, Matthew now in bed. I get up, grab the crying infant, Tylenol, bottle, and his favorite blanket, only after asking an asleep Matthew if he gave the baby some pain killer. He growls, "no, I couldn't find it." and goes back to sleep. So I give him a dosage, some milk and some mommy cuddle time and he fell asleep in about half and hour, but when he gets like this, I make sure he is really under before putting him back down in his crib.

I got a few hours of sleep, but I'm one of those people who require at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep before I feel rested. This morning, I mentioned to Matthew that the baby had fallen asleep once I gave him some pain killer, thinking to myself that he should have tried harder to find it. He looked at me, and said "But, I did give him pain killer." Yep, the baby got a double dose last night. Apparently, Matthew is a liar in his sleep. :) I need to make note of that.

I other news, I will not be returning to work in the near future! We are going to be able to pay off my car without me working and I am very excited. I can focus on being a Mommy and my business. That is something to celebrate.

MRI results

2009-04-01T13:04:00.002-04:00

The pediatric neurologist finally called us back yesterday and the first words she spoke were "the MRI was not normal." Talk about a heart stopper. However, she did go on to say that Luke does not have any tumors, growths, or anything like that. What he does have is some atrophy in his brain. What does that mean? Well, as far as I understand it, it means that part of his brain has not developed or grown properly. How will this manifest? She didn't know. At worst, it means that he could have developmental delays and at best, he could be completely normal.

She did go on to say that MRI's are often over read. (In other words, anything not "normal" is considered "abnormal.") And really, what is "normal?" We just really have to watch him because he is predisposed to seizures, although he has not had one in weeks. Praise be to God, we may be able to avoid medication. We also need to keep on our current course of one vaccine at a time. And last but not least, make sure that he is progressing properly. Luke's pediatrician was pleased with his development at his 6 month check and so are Luke's Grandma's, who should know if something does not seem quite right (my mom is in the midst of raising children 4,5,6, and 7 and Matthew's mom is finishing raising son number 3).

How are we feeling about this? Encouraged. Happy. Determined. Luke's Doctor said that children who are going to have trouble often are unhappy, inconsolable, developmentally delayed. Luke is none of these things. All of you who spend large amounts of time with him know that there could not be a more joyful baby. Even if he is going to have trouble it does not matter to us. I asked God for this child and he granted my request. This is the perfect child for us and our family: therefore, Luke is perfect. He is just as God made him. Thanks be to God.

Way Back Wednesday!

2009-03-26T15:03:00.003-04:00

My cousin started a Way Back Wednesday posting every week and this week, I have the pictures to join in! Ultimately, I would love to join every week, but alas, our scanner/printer/fax machine does not work with Microsoft. (long story) But this week's topic is pregnancy! Enjoy!

Here is the picture I never thought I would get. This is the ultrasound that I framed and showed to Matthew to tell him I was pregnant. He didn't believe that I was pregnant until I showed him my name at the top.

About 12 Weeks. I was never very good about taking pictures every week. I would always forget until I was in bed for the night, which is why there aren't many of my head and shoulders. I had bed head by then. I would leap out of bed, demanding that Matthew find his camera. Poor soul, he is so patient with me.

Luke's first visit to Cedar Point. I purchased a pregnancy bathing suit, but it didn't have any elastic in the tummy part, so it floated up every time I got into the water. My swimwear was much more comfortable anyway.

About 32 weeks. I love this picture. For my baby shower, our friends borrowed the file and put a scripure verse over it. I treasure that picture.
Ah the end. This is me in all of my 42 extra pounds glory. I have no shame whatsoever.

Happy 6 Months Luke!

2009-03-19T18:29:00.004-04:00

I just LOVE this picture. Doesn't it look like he is saying "look how tall I am dad!!" I really should have taken one picture of Matthew's entire body too, but he was feeling ungroomed and I respected his privacy.

I just love this shirt! I got it at Crazy 8, a newer store in our mall and I wear it on him every chance I get. I admired it for a while and then one beautiful day, I walked in, and it was almost half off. Can't argue with that!

Cute little guy!

In closing, I leave you with Luke's favorite phrase. Blah, blah blah.

We got our answer. . .

2009-03-12T11:17:00.002-04:00

Luke is having seizures. The doctor ran a half hour EEG and during that half hour Luke had three abnormal brain waves. I have no idea if that is a few or a lot. I am assuming that is just a few, but enough to cause his tremors and the doctor is wanting to treat him for it so it does not get worse.

I am currently waiting on the Pediatric Neurologist to call me with a date for a MRI for Luke. The doctor wants to make sure that there is nothing structurally wrong with his brain. Although, she said he is normal and perfect and does not think there is a problem with his physical brain. He just has a few stray brain waves causing some trouble.

I'm sad that there is something out of line with my little guy, but I am thankful that we don't have to guess and that it is not worse. Also, the doctor said that 75% of children who have seizures at this age grow out of them, which is encouraging.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Fasting Friday

2009-03-06T10:24:00.002-05:00

In honor of Lent, I am posting a vegan recipe for all of you animal free fasters. This week's recipe is. . . Risotto!

Don't let the Italian name intimidate you. Risotto is one of the easiest dishes you could make. Rice is also very healthy, just check out these stats!

Rice, white, long-grain, regular,raw, unenrichedNutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz)
Energy 370 kcal 1530 kJ
Carbohydrates
79 g
- Sugars 0.12 g
- Dietary fiber 1.3 g
Fat
0.66 g
Protein
7.13 g
Water
11.62 g
Thiamine (Vit. B1) 0.070 mg
5%
Riboflavin (Vit. B2) 0.049 mg
3%
Niacin (Vit. B3) 1.6 mg
11%
Pantothenic acid (B5) 1.014 mg
20%
Vitamin B6 0.164 mg
13%
Folate (Vit. B9) 8 μg
2%
Calcium 28 mg
3%
Iron 0.80 mg
6%
Magnesium 25 mg
7%
Manganese 1.088 mg
54%
Phosphorus 115 mg
16%
Potassium 115 mg
2%
Zinc 1.09 mg
11%

You are going to need Arborio rice (a must because of it's starch content)

"toppings" try to stick to two. One of our favorites is sun dried tomatoes and asparagus. But you can also use mushrooms, peas, fresh veggies or whatever is left over in the fridge.

Risotto is similar to soup in that you can put just about anything in it. A basic recipe is a 2:1 ratio. Two cups liquid to one cup rice. I use veggie broth from Meijer. All you do is heat up the broth you are going to use, then put some diary free margarine in another pot and saute your rice with some garlic or onion and then you start ladling in the broth, about a cup at a time. You are going to keep doing this, stirring occasionally, until the rice won't absorb anymore.

At this stage, all of you people eating cheese could add some Parmesan. I know it is not "correct" but I add non dairy motzarella, just to make it a little cheesy, but you can do without.

Enjoy!

"we rise again from ashes. . . "

2009-02-26T10:49:00.002-05:00

We again enter the Lenten season. Last night we attended Ash Wednesday service at Our Lady of Grace. Luke was well behaved, as usual. It didn't even phase him when it was his turn for ashes. However, my mommy radar went up and said, hmmm, this could get messy, so I had Matthew wipe them off before Luke could take his slimy little spit covered hand and wipe it across the dirt on his forehead. I really didn't want to chisel it off once we got home. So, I don't have any pictures of the event.

In other Luke related news, I had to rescue him again from his attack blanket. It sneaks up on him while he is playing with it and covers his face. This, of course, freaks Luke out to no end and he starts screaming. Always an exciting wake up call.

I hope you enjoy this time of preparation for the Resurrection. I can't help but feel a sense of displacement this time of year. We enjoy our new church very much, but their "always contemporary" goal interferes with what we feel are very important observances. I know they are not strictly in the Bible, but it is important to have seasons in our lives each year to remind us that ultimately, are lives are seasons.

Pediatric Neurologist

2009-02-20T19:15:00.002-05:00

Today was Luke's appointment with the pediatric neurologist. For those of you who don't know, he's been having tremors. The episodes can be pretty scary. He stiffens up and his entire body starts to shake. His doctor really took her time talking with me, trying to figure out why he could be having these episodes because, as far as I know, there is not a family history of epilepsy. She gave me four really good possible explanations.
1. Acid Reflux- weird huh? I never would have guessed. Luke does spit up a fair amount, but has no other symptoms.
2. He's a baby, therefore his nervous system is immature. He could just be shaking and grow out of it.
3. seizures- there's a scary one. His Dr. thinks that it is not likely this is the problem, but does want to rule it out because what he is doing is so not normal. He will be having an EEG March 10th. This is the easiest test they can do. It won't hurt him and they don't have to drug him. Please pray that they get a good reading. I need to know if these are regular seizures because of option number 4.
4. an allergic reaction to his vaccinations. The Dr. and I think that this is the most likely situation. He's had about 3 episodes that I really recall and they all seem to happen about 24 hours after his shots. If he is allergic, which I don't think there is a test for that, Matthew and I have some decisions to make. We already decided not to get him extra stuff, like chicken pox and the flu vaccine. He is a healthy baby with a healthy immune system. He'll be okay. But if he could have a seizure because of a tetanus shot, the choices become much much harder. The Dr. said bluntly, that if he had had a fever with his tremors, she, as a Dr., would advise us to never give him another shot. The problem is that I always give him Tylenol after his shots so that he does not get a fever. I always got sever fevers (103-104 degrees) and I don't want to give him the chance. Point being that I don't know if he would have had a fever.

On the bright side, he is perfect. Normal to above normal developmentally and happy. Please pray that we make good choices for our son and the courage to make them. If there is no proof that he is having an allergic reaction, we may be facing an uphill battle with Dr.'s, school officials, and so on.

:) but hey, we are already veggies, shouldn't be to hard to be one more step off the course of normal! :)

Good Oral Hygiene

2009-02-17T13:58:00.002-05:00

In keeping with my recent "how to" series, I give you "how to brush your teeth", staring Luke Graham.

Step 1: Taste your tooth brush.

Step 2: Inspect your tooth brush

Step 3: Introduce your tooth brush to your friend

Step 4: Stick your tooth brush up your nose

Step 5: Show off those beautiful gums

Happy 5 Month Birthday to Luke!

I love my husband because. . .

2009-02-13T21:51:00.002-05:00

1. he is kind

2. he takes out the trash without me asking

3. he does the dishes every night

4. he is a GREAT Daddy

5. he makes Luke smile

6. he makes me smile

7. His number one fear in life is running out of ammo in a zombie uprising. Who doesn't love a man with a fear like that?!

8. he wants me to be me

9. he knows the difference between a mule and a pump

10. he cares for others

11. he has never complained about my cooking

12. he changes my oil

13. he loves his Grandma

14. he appreciates "b" movies on Saturday nights

15. he understands the beauty of a perfect meal

16. he fixes my wounds, physical and emotional

17. deep inside, he is still a boy scout

18. he can recite the boy scout pledge anytime, anyplace

19. he knows how to sew

20. he fixes the computer

21. he can have a 30 minute discussion when choosing between two shades of cream

22. he goes to work everyday so I don't have to

23. he wears a hat all winter

24. he wears socks, no matter what. (And I mean, no matter what)

25. And best of all, he loves ME!

Random updates

2009-02-12T09:43:00.002-05:00

Please pardon my lack of posts. It seems that we have been doing nothing of blogging interest, but somehow I manage to stay incredibly busy. We started dance lessons two weeks ago. What fun! Dancing has always been a fight waiting to happen for us, but these lessons are great, and we are getting along swimmingly! Our focus for the past two weeks has been the cha-cha and next week we will be moving on to the single swing. Our hope is to be able to dance at Symphony on the Prairie this year.

Luke is growing! I'm getting ready to buy him 12 month items because he is just so long. He is stringing longer and longer strings of baby babble together, which is beautiful. He looks at you so intently, and tells you exactly what he wants. If only we could translate. His other new trick is that he can roll over all the way. He'll get onto his tummy and start grabbing anything within reach to put into his mouth. But he has not figured out how to get back over yet. He'll lay there and grumble until I turn him back over.

Think of me as I continue in my job search. My temp agency called me yesterday with something, so we'll just have to wait and see. But I would be able to work from home with this opportunity, which would be wonderful. I never thought that I would want to stay at home with my little guy, but now that he is here, I want nothing more. The idea of leaving him everyday makes me very sad. So, I'm hoping this turns out.

new jobs and sacrifices

2009-02-04T17:07:00.002-05:00

So, I am still looking for a job. I have an interview tomorrow for a telemarketing job for an insurance agency. I don't think I will be doing cold calling. Just people who have asked to be contacted. But still, not the best of the jobs. I don't like bothering people at home. However, I do not want a permanent, full time position because my goal is to stay at home with my little man cub. I just need a job long enough to pay off my car and then I get to stay at home and take my little one to the zoo, playdates, reading time at the library, and let him stay in his PJ's until all hours of the afternoon.

If I get the job, and you live in the area, please do not hate me if one day you hear my voice on the other end of the phone. Just keep in mind that I'm doing it so I can spend more time with my little miracle.

25 Random things about me

2009-01-26T21:43:00.002-05:00

I keep getting tagged in facebook for the 25 random things note going around and while I don't have the heart to tag anybody else, I feel that if I don't respond, my inbox will soon be flooded, so, here it is. . .

1. I'm a Ovo-Vegetarian. I know I tell most people that I am Vegan, but in truth, I am an Ovo. If you tell people in Hoosier land that you are a Vegetarian, they will serve you a hunk of cheese and think they did a good thing.
2. I have a deep passion for shoes. My feet grew half a size during pregnancy, but I can't get rid of my no longer fitting shoes because I love them so. It would be like tossing an old friend and that is just wrong!
3. I like being a Mommy. Never really thought I would be typing that one.
4. I have no career ambitions and am rather proud of the fact. The idea of climbing the corporate ladder, breaking the glass ceiling, and having a big office bores me silly.
5. I am loyal to a fault. I don't make friends quickly, but once I do, I am true for life.
6. I dislike the interview question "what is your greatest fault." yea right, like I'm going to tell you.
7. My number one pet peeve is chewing with your mouth open. When I have a stuffed up nose, I annoy myself to the point of not eating.
8. I am annoyed by my own clutter.
9. I hate Indianapolis Monthly. Any publication in a "local, fresh, best produce" article that can list Marsh (a huge chain grocery store) as an "excellent boutique shopping experience" really needs to get out of Indiana more often.
10. I dream that I can't find Bethlehem, PA often. Every Christmas when somebody sings "We're not that far from Bethlehem, where all our hopes and joys began, . . ." I tear up a little.
11. I love pajama pants. In a more perfect world, I could wear them all day everyday.
12. I would love to not have a car.
13. I love to read, but have a hard time finding new books that interest me. I'll often read three at once, just to make it more challenging.
14. I've never eaten a star fruit.
15. My inner child is a very picky eater. It does not like onions, spinach, artichokes, olives, sausage, asparagus, so forth and so on. Still working on that.
16. I hate charging people money for my photography services. If I could, I would give everybody free pictures all the time! Oh what fun that would be.
17. I aspire to have matching furniture some day.
18. I let Luke wear his jammies all day and then dress him really cute to go see other people.
19. I check my sister's webkinz on a regular basis. :)
20. I dream of the day when I can own a white coat and pay to have it dry cleaned every time I wear it.
21. nacho night is a weekly occurrence in our house. I don't like leftovers, so putting it on chips makes it taste different.
22. I had a perfect falafal in DC this summer and am still craving it.
23. I have always wanted to wind surf, but I can't swim well.
24. I always read that last few pages of a book after I read the first chapter. I think the best part of a book is all the details on how you ended up somewhere.
25. My life's goal is to be an interesting person.

Ta-Da! Now I can ignore all future facebook posts!

How to Make a Non-Dairy Cheese Sauce

2009-01-22T12:21:00.002-05:00

Basic 4 ingredients:

1. one package non-dairy cheese: Beware of Casin in most soy cheeses. If you have an extreme allergy, go for a vegan brand like Teese, that is made in a dedicated dairy free facility.
2. Unsweetened soy milk or rice milk: Make sure that you do not buy Plain because it has sugar in it. I really don't like sweet mac and cheese.
3. Corn Starch- about 2 tablespoons
4. spices

Once you have the basic technique, you can really do anything with this recipe. Also, please pardon my lack of measurements. I don't usually use them. . . much to the frustration of my husband.

Pour about 2 cups of soy milk into a sauce pan and put on medium heat. You are going to have to stand right by the stove once you start putting the cheese in because it WILL burn. Shred your "cheese" and put into a bowl. Add the 2 tablespoons on corn starch and mix well. Once the soy milk has warmed up but has not started to bubble, add a handful of the cheese mixture.

At this stage I like to use a spatula to make sure I am scraping the sides and bottom of the pan to make sure nothing sticks. Be patient with your cheese. It may not seem like it is going to melt, but it usually will. After the first handful looks like it is getting soft, add more, until all the cheese is in the pot.

Viola! You have cheese sauce!

For mac and cheese I add mustard powder, salt, pepper to the milk while it is warming. And I use cheddar flavored cheese

For Alfredo, I use mozzarella and add nutmeg, salt and pepper

Fondue is just the mac and cheese stuff without the noddles

Queso is the cheddar with a little chili powder and drained salsa at the end.

How to Feed a Baby

2009-01-21T19:49:00.003-05:00

Step 1: Introduce Spoon- The young spudling may initially reject this new object, but keep trying. He will soon learn to love it.
Step 2: Convince Spudling of wonderful flavors- The spudling may not fully appreciate the new flavors delivered from the spoon, so you may need to use said spoon to eat said new flavor. Note: only try this with fruits! You are just going to have to trust me on this one.
Step 3: Repeat- If at first you don't succeed, try try again! The spudling has developed a preference for the bottle and cuddling. He will eventually gain confidence and enjoy his new found Independence.

Our healthy Vegan Baby

2009-01-19T16:55:00.002-05:00

Luke had his 4 month check up today. He is 18 lbs. 3 oz. and 26 1/2 inches long. That would make him in the 95th percentile for his age group. Good grief! No wonder he is in 9 month clothing. He is also talking, pushing up, holding up his head, reaching and grabbing things and teething. Ohh! And we get to start real foods! Although, much to Matthew's disappointment, he will not be getting salsa. The Doctor and I maintain that babies need to start with things like Bananas, Apples, Green Beans, and Peas. I will be waiting to give him tofu until he is around 6 months or so. Right now, his formula provides the protein and iron that he needs, so, the legumes are going to wait.

Luke's first snow frolic

2009-01-14T18:50:00.002-05:00

It is Luke's first real snow. I hold him up to the window and he just loves to look at all the flakes flying. Thought I would share his first snow experience.

Unemployed yet again

2009-01-14T16:09:00.002-05:00

I got a call around 3:00 this afternoon informing me that my boss had let me go, hired a previous employee and said that I was a slow learner. Ouch. Thank goodness I really work for a temp agency who recognized that my former employer was making a bogus claim because he had never said anything to me or to them before.

The hard part is that I only work to make payments on my car and when that is payed off, I get to be a stay at home mom! This is just frustrating. My most recent assignment was going to let me pay it off sooner then expected and now I am bummed. Please pray for a speedy placement with good pay so I can be at home with my little man soon. (Part-time would be ideal, if we are getting into specifics.) :)

Not me Monday on Tuesday

2009-01-13T20:48:00.003-05:00

So, I do follow other blogs and I would like to join the "not me Monday" bloggers.

First and foremost, I did "not" agonize for two days about joining the not me Monday bloggers resulting in my posting on Tuesday because I was afraid of being accused of following the crowd or other such nonsense.

Second, I most certainly have "not" been letting my pro-spanking friends know that Matthew and I are adamantly against spanking. Our friends will be sharing with one another about how they taught little X a lesson about touching the Christmas tree by swatting them twice or how they think that a good hard spanking is all a child needs to punish their behavior. Up until now, I have "not" sat quietly, grinding my teeth . But now that I have a child, although a very young one, my silence has been noticed and I get the feeling they were expecting me to chime in and agree with them. My, once again, "liberal" viewpoint has "not" caused things to be a bit strange.

Also, I would "not" intentionally keep certain medical information from my doctor about complications from my hospital infection. That would be a silly thing to do! Whats more, I would "never" go to web MD and look up the situation my Doctor suggested I could get. This new problem "does NOT" come with medication that could give me Type 2 Diabetes or cataracts. If I were to have say 3 out of 4 symptoms listed on the website, I would "never" tell my dear husband to cancel my extra insurance because I will live with said situation before I ever go on said medication.

Hope my Tuesday "not me Monday" posting didn't throw anybody off to much!

Vegan Classes

2009-01-08T22:40:00.003-05:00

I have recently had a couple of people ask me to teach a vegan cooking/nutrition class, and I am really excited about it! Living in Indiana is so very frustrating sometimes. Hoosiers are good people, but change comes very slowly around here, both in art and cuisine. But enough on that. I was wondering if any of my Internet friends had questions about veganism, vegetarianism, or allergies that I could try to answer. The class is going to be a mix of a Bible study and cooking class and I was going to post shortened version on my blog as well as links and some recipes! If you live in the area and are interested in attending, please let me know!

Our blessed year

2008-12-31T17:13:00.003-05:00

It was one year ago today that I was having an IUD put in, hoping it would end my suffering. I had had the obligatory pregnancy test and I was feeling rushed because our insurance was changing January 1, 2008. I didn't know that God had worked a miracle in my life. I didn't know that in just 16 days, I would come in and hear the most amazing news. Isn't God amazing in that He works miracles before we even know what is going on? If you had told me this time last year I would have a biological child, I would have pulled a Sarah and laughed. We have seen the doctors, I have had the surgeries, Matthew has had the multitude of tests and I had made peace with our situation.

Our huge blessing is currently downstairs chewing happily on his fist. I could not have asked for what God has given. I simply could not have imagined it. May God bless you abundantly in the coming year.