by Holly
12 white chocolate covered pretzels
11 wooden train tracks
10 thousand miles of driving
9 days of snow
8 pounds of chewy bars
7 sticky Eli kisses
6 blinking twinkle lights
5 snow angels
4 trips to post office
3 happy Noble's
2 family visits
and a precious 2 year old!
We had a great Christmas and hope you all did as well. We are actually still celebrating as we leave in just a few minutes for my family Christmas this weekend. Pictures coming soon!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
How to Drive in Lubbock
By Justin
1. Speed limits are made for people from Dallas and ‘those dang College kids’. Feel free to drive whatever speed you desire so long as it is at least 5 mph UNDER the posted speed.
2. The exception to the speed limit rule is on Sunday morning when you are running late for church. You should then drive as fast as you can to make sure you get YOUR pew. Jesus understands. Besides the police officer should be in church anyways.
3. At random intervals tap your brakes just to ensure the person behind you is awake.
4. Drive in the right most lane of THE loop. Do not mind those cars trying to merge on, they can just wait their turn.
5. The inverse is true as well. While trying to enter the loop with a full right lane, simply turn your left turn blinker on and start merging. They will either let you in or get hit. You’re insured, right?
6. Most importantly remember this: Red lights in this city are merely a suggestion to stop. Feel free to continue along your pace if you feel that stopping and waiting for the light to cycle will make you unnecessarily tardy. Note: At no point do you speed up to accomplish this task, simply continue on at your normal 5 mph UNDER speed.
Justin’s key’s to surviving Lubbock driving:
1. Don’t be running late for church. A little extra time here is worth keeping the grey-haired grandma out of your bumper.
2. Do not drive in the right most lane of the loop. The fact is by driving the speed limit you are going to be one of the fastest cars on the highway, so feel free to drive in the left most lane.
3. Avoid the loop.
4. Give it a good two Mississippi count after the light turns red. You think I am kidding on this one.
5. Get to know your car insurance man. The reality is that major accidents don’t happen in Lubbock, but a fender bender body shop man makes a killin’.
1. Speed limits are made for people from Dallas and ‘those dang College kids’. Feel free to drive whatever speed you desire so long as it is at least 5 mph UNDER the posted speed.
2. The exception to the speed limit rule is on Sunday morning when you are running late for church. You should then drive as fast as you can to make sure you get YOUR pew. Jesus understands. Besides the police officer should be in church anyways.
3. At random intervals tap your brakes just to ensure the person behind you is awake.
4. Drive in the right most lane of THE loop. Do not mind those cars trying to merge on, they can just wait their turn.
5. The inverse is true as well. While trying to enter the loop with a full right lane, simply turn your left turn blinker on and start merging. They will either let you in or get hit. You’re insured, right?
6. Most importantly remember this: Red lights in this city are merely a suggestion to stop. Feel free to continue along your pace if you feel that stopping and waiting for the light to cycle will make you unnecessarily tardy. Note: At no point do you speed up to accomplish this task, simply continue on at your normal 5 mph UNDER speed.
Justin’s key’s to surviving Lubbock driving:
1. Don’t be running late for church. A little extra time here is worth keeping the grey-haired grandma out of your bumper.
2. Do not drive in the right most lane of the loop. The fact is by driving the speed limit you are going to be one of the fastest cars on the highway, so feel free to drive in the left most lane.
3. Avoid the loop.
4. Give it a good two Mississippi count after the light turns red. You think I am kidding on this one.
5. Get to know your car insurance man. The reality is that major accidents don’t happen in Lubbock, but a fender bender body shop man makes a killin’.
Monday, December 07, 2009
Lessons Learned (or not quite so much yet...)
by Holly
My friend Erin and I went to lunch at a girlie bakery place on Saturday and I brought home a Christmas cookie each for Justin, Eli and Erin's husband Bryan. The men ate theirs immediately. Eli picked off the nose of his Santa cookie and ate it, but wanted to save the rest for later. Well, later turned out to be late last night when Eli should have already been in bed but instead sweetly asked for Santa cookie and I couldn't resist.
And here comes the lesson part: Eli was so excited about his cookie that he ran to show Daddy and then Jazzy (the dog). In true dog fashion, a treat extended under your nose means its your treat. Jazzy took the cookie, ran to our bedroom and ate it. Eli was wailing. He didn't understand why she took it and even more so why he couldn't still eat the piece she dropped. So sorry honey, but we don't eat after the dog, even if Mama does let you double dip.
Jazzy needs to learn not to take our food, but Eli needs to learn not to offer his food to Jazzy. Who do you think will learn their lesson first? My bet is on Mama not letting these situations occur if I can help it!
My friend Erin and I went to lunch at a girlie bakery place on Saturday and I brought home a Christmas cookie each for Justin, Eli and Erin's husband Bryan. The men ate theirs immediately. Eli picked off the nose of his Santa cookie and ate it, but wanted to save the rest for later. Well, later turned out to be late last night when Eli should have already been in bed but instead sweetly asked for Santa cookie and I couldn't resist.
And here comes the lesson part: Eli was so excited about his cookie that he ran to show Daddy and then Jazzy (the dog). In true dog fashion, a treat extended under your nose means its your treat. Jazzy took the cookie, ran to our bedroom and ate it. Eli was wailing. He didn't understand why she took it and even more so why he couldn't still eat the piece she dropped. So sorry honey, but we don't eat after the dog, even if Mama does let you double dip.
Jazzy needs to learn not to take our food, but Eli needs to learn not to offer his food to Jazzy. Who do you think will learn their lesson first? My bet is on Mama not letting these situations occur if I can help it!
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Carol of Lights
by Holly
What a fantastic Texas Tech tradition, the Carol of Lights! This was one event that we truly missed when we lived in Dallas and were so excited to attend this year, even with it being moved to a Wednesday. For those of you questioning it being on Wednesday, go ahead and mark your calendars for the next two years as it has already been moved to the first Wednesday of December then too.
It was very cold out, so we bundled up and danced to the Christmas music to stay warm. Eli was taking it all in, and insisted on being on Justin's shoulders most of the time, when he wasn't playing peek-a-boo around my legs with the college girls behind us. :)
After the event, we went to Starbucks to warm up. I got my standard holiday order- peppermint mocha, and Justin resorted to his year round standby- grande vanilla latte w/ one shot. We asked for some steamed milk for Eli and they made him a 'kids temp steamed milk' in a tiny Starbucks cup and he thought he was soooo big! When we got home he wanted a refill so I microwaved some more milk and he drank that too. Glad he's easy to please!
What a fantastic Texas Tech tradition, the Carol of Lights! This was one event that we truly missed when we lived in Dallas and were so excited to attend this year, even with it being moved to a Wednesday. For those of you questioning it being on Wednesday, go ahead and mark your calendars for the next two years as it has already been moved to the first Wednesday of December then too.
It was very cold out, so we bundled up and danced to the Christmas music to stay warm. Eli was taking it all in, and insisted on being on Justin's shoulders most of the time, when he wasn't playing peek-a-boo around my legs with the college girls behind us. :)
After the event, we went to Starbucks to warm up. I got my standard holiday order- peppermint mocha, and Justin resorted to his year round standby- grande vanilla latte w/ one shot. We asked for some steamed milk for Eli and they made him a 'kids temp steamed milk' in a tiny Starbucks cup and he thought he was soooo big! When we got home he wanted a refill so I microwaved some more milk and he drank that too. Glad he's easy to please! 
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Winter Wonderland
by Holly
These top 2 pictures are at my parents' house on Sunday. It was heavy enough that we couldn't see past the tree line until into the afternoon and didn't venture the 14 miles to church. What a beautiful sight to wake up to! We even enjoyed snow ice cream midmorning.
These 3 are from our house yesterday. We didn't have as much accumulation as Friona did on Sunday, but the large flakes were just as lovely.
These top 2 pictures are at my parents' house on Sunday. It was heavy enough that we couldn't see past the tree line until into the afternoon and didn't venture the 14 miles to church. What a beautiful sight to wake up to! We even enjoyed snow ice cream midmorning.
These 3 are from our house yesterday. We didn't have as much accumulation as Friona did on Sunday, but the large flakes were just as lovely.
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Jasmine
by Holly
So here is our new dog. Her name is Jasmine and we call her Jazzy. She is 5 1/2 years old and is a mix of border collie and cocker spaniel. She is crate trained and loves the crate, which I love equally as much. She stays outside during the day if the weather is nice and inside at night. Eli loves his 'puppy' and is getting used to her sniffing and kissing him. A few days ago, he would just cry if she got too close and last night she had him pinned on the floor licking his neck and he was laughing so hard he lost his breath. Disgusting, but progress so I'll take it.
This is at my parents' house in their new addition, the log room. Without the rock floor, I suspect Jazzy would have had to stay in the garage, so we were glad the room is finished! This is not Eli in the background, but our little friend Cale Conklin. Also note how much whiter Jazzy's underside is in the top picture after a bath!
Daddy and Jazzy on her first night with us. Jazzy thinks she is a lap dog, and I guess it could be worse. She weighs less than Eli, at 26 lbs.
Eli, Daddy and Jazzy getting acquainted. He was happy to have a puppy, but wanted her at a distance. :)
So here is our new dog. Her name is Jasmine and we call her Jazzy. She is 5 1/2 years old and is a mix of border collie and cocker spaniel. She is crate trained and loves the crate, which I love equally as much. She stays outside during the day if the weather is nice and inside at night. Eli loves his 'puppy' and is getting used to her sniffing and kissing him. A few days ago, he would just cry if she got too close and last night she had him pinned on the floor licking his neck and he was laughing so hard he lost his breath. Disgusting, but progress so I'll take it.
This is at my parents' house in their new addition, the log room. Without the rock floor, I suspect Jazzy would have had to stay in the garage, so we were glad the room is finished! This is not Eli in the background, but our little friend Cale Conklin. Also note how much whiter Jazzy's underside is in the top picture after a bath!
Daddy and Jazzy on her first night with us. Jazzy thinks she is a lap dog, and I guess it could be worse. She weighs less than Eli, at 26 lbs.
Eli, Daddy and Jazzy getting acquainted. He was happy to have a puppy, but wanted her at a distance. :)
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Its Cold Out Here!
by Holly
Eli doesn't remember cold weather from last year and is now loving his 'jackek' and 'gubs' and 'hat'. He discovered the crunch of the leaves a few days ago and loves to ride his car or tricycle through them.
For some reason all the pictures from this day were blurry (I seriously need to read the owner's manual, but suspect it got tossed long ago.) We're cute anyway!
Eli doesn't remember cold weather from last year and is now loving his 'jackek' and 'gubs' and 'hat'. He discovered the crunch of the leaves a few days ago and loves to ride his car or tricycle through them.
For some reason all the pictures from this day were blurry (I seriously need to read the owner's manual, but suspect it got tossed long ago.) We're cute anyway!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Trips to the DFW Area
by Holly
We traveled to the Dallas area the first two weekends in November, the first to visit Justin's parents and grandmother, and the second to stay with our friend Jenise and have a short visit with friends Curt and Kim. Although we were tired of the long road in between, it was nice to see family and friends and get out of town. Eli did well in the car both times which is a huge blessing!
Here Justin, Lannie and Eli relax on the front porch and soak up the beautiful weather.
Grandma got Eli one of these fun cars and he loved it! And in true grandparent fashion, they let him bring it into the house too. 
Just a swingin'! Don't worry, I'm not letting go of my sticks!
Justin, Holly with Eli and Jenise Judah. Jenise and Justin have worked together at Tech, UTSouthwestern and Southwest Airlines. Jenise is still at SWA and travels seemingly more than she's home. We were glad to get on her in-town calendar for a visit to enjoy her new home. Its beautiful and we had a great time!
Justin, Holly with Eli, Kim and Curt Whiteside. These are friends from Plano Bible Chapel and we miss them dearly. Always a wonderful time in their lovely home and with laughs galore and yummy cooking we didn't want to leave!
Friday, November 20, 2009
News Flash
By Justin
The major headlines of the day:
*The Rev. Jesse Jackson said Wednesday night that any black lawmaker who votes against President Obama's sweeping health care overhaul isn't really black, the Hill newspaper reported.
(Justin's Commentary: It is good to know that my race is now tied to how I vote. It is also distrubing that Mr. Jackson belives that the health care bill is created by the President. In fact legislators create bills and the President signs or vetos them. It is the basics of 'Checks and Balances' as outlined in School House Rocks. I will get you a copy. Everyone..I'm just a bill and I am sitting here on capital hill...)
Oprah Winfrey will announce on Friday's "The Oprah Winfrey Show" that she will end her talk show, said a spokesman for Winfrey's Harpo Productions.
(Justin's Commentary: I am wondering what the world will do on September 9, 2011. Will it simply stop spinning without Oprah on TV? I am also wondering how much crying and attention will be made of the most powerful woman in the world. Maybe she will finally get married, that'd be a good last show.)
and from the Lubbock Avalance-Journal, the lead headline...
The popular vampire movie "The Twilight Saga: New Moon" - opening on seven screens today in Lubbock - is on the fast track to making a high profit.
(Justin's Commentary: Guess I am sorry I am gonna miss this one. Maybe it is a good time to see another movie that no one else is interested in.)
The major headlines of the day:
*The Rev. Jesse Jackson said Wednesday night that any black lawmaker who votes against President Obama's sweeping health care overhaul isn't really black, the Hill newspaper reported.
(Justin's Commentary: It is good to know that my race is now tied to how I vote. It is also distrubing that Mr. Jackson belives that the health care bill is created by the President. In fact legislators create bills and the President signs or vetos them. It is the basics of 'Checks and Balances' as outlined in School House Rocks. I will get you a copy. Everyone..I'm just a bill and I am sitting here on capital hill...)
Oprah Winfrey will announce on Friday's "The Oprah Winfrey Show" that she will end her talk show, said a spokesman for Winfrey's Harpo Productions.
(Justin's Commentary: I am wondering what the world will do on September 9, 2011. Will it simply stop spinning without Oprah on TV? I am also wondering how much crying and attention will be made of the most powerful woman in the world. Maybe she will finally get married, that'd be a good last show.)
and from the Lubbock Avalance-Journal, the lead headline...
The popular vampire movie "The Twilight Saga: New Moon" - opening on seven screens today in Lubbock - is on the fast track to making a high profit.
(Justin's Commentary: Guess I am sorry I am gonna miss this one. Maybe it is a good time to see another movie that no one else is interested in.)
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
A new day breaks...
By Justin
There is no hope for a civilization which starts each day to the sound of an alarm clock. ~ Author Unknown.
It is Wednesday. I am tired. I don't want to work. I hate the alarm clock.
I'm done.
There is no hope for a civilization which starts each day to the sound of an alarm clock. ~ Author Unknown.
It is Wednesday. I am tired. I don't want to work. I hate the alarm clock.
I'm done.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Trick or Treat!
by Holly
We had a fun and spooky Halloween! Eli was an adorable black spider and I was his web! If you look closely you'll see the spiders on my web and necklace.
Trick or treating at the National Ranching Heritage Center. The workers were in period costume, handing out candy that was invented during the same time periods of their respective houses.
Justin and Eli hanging out on the choo-choo!
Eli having a blast at our church carnival, eating a sucker and playing with the bubble machine. His hair was wet and sticky from standing next to the machine for so long!
We had a fun and spooky Halloween! Eli was an adorable black spider and I was his web! If you look closely you'll see the spiders on my web and necklace.
Trick or treating at the National Ranching Heritage Center. The workers were in period costume, handing out candy that was invented during the same time periods of their respective houses.
Justin and Eli hanging out on the choo-choo!
Eli having a blast at our church carnival, eating a sucker and playing with the bubble machine. His hair was wet and sticky from standing next to the machine for so long! 
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Eli's Painted Pumpkin
by Holly
We bought a white pumpkin this year, for Eli to paint himself. Like a clean canvas for our little Picasso. :) It didn't take long for him to catch on and I'm very glad he was wearing nothing but a diaper! His hair, ears, legs, hands, diaper bottom and feet had black paint, as well as my legs and one hand. Oh, well, he had a great time.
We bought a white pumpkin this year, for Eli to paint himself. Like a clean canvas for our little Picasso. :) It didn't take long for him to catch on and I'm very glad he was wearing nothing but a diaper! His hair, ears, legs, hands, diaper bottom and feet had black paint, as well as my legs and one hand. Oh, well, he had a great time.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Quarterback Jack
by Holly
Our 6 year old nephew Jared has been playing flag football for the last couple of months and loves it. He is the quarterback for the Longhorns, and no comments are needed on that please. :) I know I'm biased, but he is very good and this past Sunday threw his first completed pass for a touchdown. His specialty though is the quarterback sneak and has scored quite a few touchdowns! The coaches are good, teaching them teamwork, sportsmanship... and they don't keep score.
Jared on the right
Coming back in after a play
Watch that little boy in front- he is fast!!Friday, October 23, 2009
Pumpkin Patch Fun- Part 2
by Holly
Holly and Eli at the pumpkin patch. You walked around till you found what you wanted and the workers would come cut it off the vine for you. Pretty cool, except this end had been picked over and they were sparse. We found some good ones though.
Eli picked this tiny gourd before we knew what he was doing, but we laughed and told him he could have whatever he could carry. Not too big of a threat, his purchase was only 25 cents.
From the front, Brooklyn, Tyler, Jared, Teresa and Kelly with Eli making our way through the maze. Teresa and Kelly had the maps and were quite good at navigating. I fear we would still be there if I had been in charge!
Justin pretending to use his map. :) Really, we couldn't keep up with the turns as we were preoccupied with passing Eli back and forth. He got quite heavy through this ordeal!
Canna and her youngest daughter Brianna while we were on the hayride out to the pumpkin patch. I didn't get a good picture of her older daughter Brooklyn.
Holly and Eli at the pumpkin patch. You walked around till you found what you wanted and the workers would come cut it off the vine for you. Pretty cool, except this end had been picked over and they were sparse. We found some good ones though.
Eli picked this tiny gourd before we knew what he was doing, but we laughed and told him he could have whatever he could carry. Not too big of a threat, his purchase was only 25 cents.
From the front, Brooklyn, Tyler, Jared, Teresa and Kelly with Eli making our way through the maze. Teresa and Kelly had the maps and were quite good at navigating. I fear we would still be there if I had been in charge!
Justin pretending to use his map. :) Really, we couldn't keep up with the turns as we were preoccupied with passing Eli back and forth. He got quite heavy through this ordeal!Pumpkin Patch Fun- Part 1
by Holly
We took Eli to the Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze near Shallowater a few weeks ago, and met Kelly and Teresa's family and our friends Jeff and Canna and their family there for an afternoon of fun.
Harder than you might think to get three little boys with minds of their own to all hold still and smile at the same time. Add to that that we lost the button to our camera that day and I was having to poke my earring down into it to get it to take a picture. Not too bad though!
Kelly helping Jared with the corn launcher. They stuff a half ear of corn down into the pipe and then aim it at hay bales decorated with non-Tech team logos. I think Jared hit the Kansas Jayhawk, but I'm not sure on that. He had a great time doing it for sure!
Jared, Eli and Tyler watching the bock-bock's. Eli's current favorite farm animal. :)
How precious is this? Jared loves his "Little Buddy" and watches over him as they walk around the pond.
Justin conquering the kiddie maze! Way to go honey! My brother looks on and laughs, as he got beat. It actually was a little difficult to do- you could only make right turns. Justin figured it out though, and I'm sure you aren't surprised that his analytical brain could do so.
We took Eli to the Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze near Shallowater a few weeks ago, and met Kelly and Teresa's family and our friends Jeff and Canna and their family there for an afternoon of fun.
Harder than you might think to get three little boys with minds of their own to all hold still and smile at the same time. Add to that that we lost the button to our camera that day and I was having to poke my earring down into it to get it to take a picture. Not too bad though!
Kelly helping Jared with the corn launcher. They stuff a half ear of corn down into the pipe and then aim it at hay bales decorated with non-Tech team logos. I think Jared hit the Kansas Jayhawk, but I'm not sure on that. He had a great time doing it for sure!
Jared, Eli and Tyler watching the bock-bock's. Eli's current favorite farm animal. :)
How precious is this? Jared loves his "Little Buddy" and watches over him as they walk around the pond.
Justin conquering the kiddie maze! Way to go honey! My brother looks on and laughs, as he got beat. It actually was a little difficult to do- you could only make right turns. Justin figured it out though, and I'm sure you aren't surprised that his analytical brain could do so.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Birthday Party
by Holly
We hosted the September birthday party for my family in our home, which honored my Dad and my cousin Rusty. The same day, we babysat Jonas as his parents Paul and Sarah were moving to their new home! What a great day!
Eli and Jonas. Clearly Eli thinks he is in control of juice rations as he is a few months older.
My dad and mom. Happy Birthday Dad!
Looking at collage frames of our family tree. The next weekend was a family reunion at Lake Texoma and my aunt had put these together to share with the other families.
Michelle and Rusty, who Jonas became fast friends with!
We hosted the September birthday party for my family in our home, which honored my Dad and my cousin Rusty. The same day, we babysat Jonas as his parents Paul and Sarah were moving to their new home! What a great day!
Eli and Jonas. Clearly Eli thinks he is in control of juice rations as he is a few months older. 
My dad and mom. Happy Birthday Dad!
Looking at collage frames of our family tree. The next weekend was a family reunion at Lake Texoma and my aunt had put these together to share with the other families.
Michelle and Rusty, who Jonas became fast friends with!Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Update
by Holly
We did have a miscarriage, official this morning. I do not have to have a D&C and am thankful for that. God has prepared our hearts ahead of time so we have grieved and were not shocked this morning, but still very sad. Thank you for all of your prayers and support!
We did have a miscarriage, official this morning. I do not have to have a D&C and am thankful for that. God has prepared our hearts ahead of time so we have grieved and were not shocked this morning, but still very sad. Thank you for all of your prayers and support!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Our Cool Crowd
by Holly
We ate at Texas Roadhouse on Sunday evening with Holly's family and had the best waitress. She was fun and joked around with the boys and was just great as a server. At the end of the meal she brought all the boys a pair of sunglasses which they thought was just too cool. Eli, Jared and Tyler, left to right.
We ate at Texas Roadhouse on Sunday evening with Holly's family and had the best waitress. She was fun and joked around with the boys and was just great as a server. At the end of the meal she brought all the boys a pair of sunglasses which they thought was just too cool. Eli, Jared and Tyler, left to right.Friday, October 09, 2009
Faith That is Real
by Holly
Steve Wiggins is a musician from California that we heard at the Marriage conference last weekend. Besides hearing his worship music during our general sessions, we also attended the class he and his wife Misti were presenting on "How the Bible Transformed Our Marriage". Good stuff on both ends. This is a song that we liked at the conference but have taken to heart this week as God works a trial in our lives.
"Faith That is Real"
Consider it joy when the trials of life are upon you
Remember: a promise is given to all who endure
Bringing wisdom, filling completely.
With a faith that is real, a faith that is true
The source of strength to carry me through
When what I believe is not what I feel, I hold on
With a faith that is real.
Tossed by the wind and the waves
I have been double-minded
Faithless and doubting, till you taught me how to believe
You are my anchor! Lord I can trust You!
With a faith that is real, a faith that is true
The source of strength to carry me through
When what I believe is not what I feel, I hold on
With a faith that is real.
Oh, Lord, I know its by Your grace, alone that You saved me!
And the good that I do is only because You gave me...
Chorus
Oh, Lord give me faith!
Steve Wiggins is a musician from California that we heard at the Marriage conference last weekend. Besides hearing his worship music during our general sessions, we also attended the class he and his wife Misti were presenting on "How the Bible Transformed Our Marriage". Good stuff on both ends. This is a song that we liked at the conference but have taken to heart this week as God works a trial in our lives.
"Faith That is Real"
Consider it joy when the trials of life are upon you
Remember: a promise is given to all who endure
Bringing wisdom, filling completely.
With a faith that is real, a faith that is true
The source of strength to carry me through
When what I believe is not what I feel, I hold on
With a faith that is real.
Tossed by the wind and the waves
I have been double-minded
Faithless and doubting, till you taught me how to believe
You are my anchor! Lord I can trust You!
With a faith that is real, a faith that is true
The source of strength to carry me through
When what I believe is not what I feel, I hold on
With a faith that is real.
Oh, Lord, I know its by Your grace, alone that You saved me!
And the good that I do is only because You gave me...
Chorus
Oh, Lord give me faith!
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
A Few Things I'm Learning
by Holly
I don't often profess outright faith and Christian beliefs in our blog, but these are things I'm learning through recent events in my life and by attending the Festivals of Marriage conference this weekend in Glorieta, NM (which was fabulous and life-changing!).
1. If you aren't right with God, you don't have a chance at being right in human relationships.
2. God loves us too much to leave us where we are at. The trials in life are his efforts to make our character look more like his own.
3. If you find yourself being judgmental about a negative characteristic in someone else, its likely that you have the same characteristic.
4. Instead of being critical or complaining about someone else's behavior, take a moment and consider what your life would be like if that person weren't in it.
5. Don't underestimate the power of the following phrases: I'm sorry. I'm proud of you. I love you. I forgive you. Thank you.
Have a blessed day! I plan to!
I don't often profess outright faith and Christian beliefs in our blog, but these are things I'm learning through recent events in my life and by attending the Festivals of Marriage conference this weekend in Glorieta, NM (which was fabulous and life-changing!).
1. If you aren't right with God, you don't have a chance at being right in human relationships.
2. God loves us too much to leave us where we are at. The trials in life are his efforts to make our character look more like his own.
3. If you find yourself being judgmental about a negative characteristic in someone else, its likely that you have the same characteristic.
4. Instead of being critical or complaining about someone else's behavior, take a moment and consider what your life would be like if that person weren't in it.
5. Don't underestimate the power of the following phrases: I'm sorry. I'm proud of you. I love you. I forgive you. Thank you.
Have a blessed day! I plan to!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Plus One
Well after much anticipation, we are announcing to the world the impending arrival of Baby Number Two (currently known as Punkin' Seed). Details are very few and far between, but the seed is expected to detach from the vine in late May. We are excited to enter yet another chapter of parenting!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Labor Day, a little late
by Holly
So I've heard from some of our non-commenting readers that we should continue posting despite the lack of comments. Yes, this is for you Erin R. :)
Here are some pictures from Labor Day weekend. Justin's parents were in town for a visit and watched Eli so we could have some Justin and Holly time which was fabulous. We were able to go to a Tech football game and also to a Sunday School party without worrying about a babysitter. Thanks Pops and Grandma! And the visit was nice too!
Pops and Eli making play guns out of blocks.
Eli is fearless on the slide now and scooted right off the end of it this time!
Grandma and Eli swinging
Mama and Eli playing with Play-Doh. Eli's first time. He was more interested in throwing the little pieces than making anything fun, but I enjoyed it!
So I've heard from some of our non-commenting readers that we should continue posting despite the lack of comments. Yes, this is for you Erin R. :)
Here are some pictures from Labor Day weekend. Justin's parents were in town for a visit and watched Eli so we could have some Justin and Holly time which was fabulous. We were able to go to a Tech football game and also to a Sunday School party without worrying about a babysitter. Thanks Pops and Grandma! And the visit was nice too!
Pops and Eli making play guns out of blocks.
Eli is fearless on the slide now and scooted right off the end of it this time!
Grandma and Eli swinging
Mama and Eli playing with Play-Doh. Eli's first time. He was more interested in throwing the little pieces than making anything fun, but I enjoyed it!Saturday, September 12, 2009
Habits
By Justin
I was thinking yesterday, I do that a lot while mowing the yard, why is it so hard to break habits? Seriously, everyone has a tip or trick to help you break your addictions or behaviors. Some are twelve steps. Some are 21 days. Some are cold turkey. The common key is they all are merely one step away from backsliding.
Then I had a revelation. Creating the bad habit was a long slow process. I didn’t wake up ten years ago and say “I think I will start the following self destructive behavior”. No, rather it was small baby steps towards stupidity or small decisions that were every so slight movements in the wrong direction. Sometimes I could tell the decisions were bad, but in the moment the good far outweighed the bad. I only later to learned of unforeseen or unforgiving consequences.
Now I am not talking about huge issues in life. Rather the many small ones that have compounded. For instance, I am addicted to french fries. And it is no small addiction. I would rather eat good french fries than my meal. I systematically rank places on their fries. If I need ketchup, you know there is a problem. My french fry addiction must be a contributing factor in my “slightly larger than healthy” weight.
I also cannot stand water. On a hot summer day, after sweating it out mowing the yard, I want a coke. Water makes my stomach hurt. I can feel the indigestion start from the first swallow. Somewhere along the way in my life, water was much more palatable with sugar, food coloring and corn syrup. I take this as another baby step (maybe literally taken as a baby) towards long term weight gain.
So I have decided to take a new approach, for me, on reversing some bad habits. Instead of tackling all of my vices at once, I am going to try to take small baby steps backwards. No cold turkey stops on Coke. No forgoing of McDonalds french fries. Rather, I plan to start with the other side of the equation. Just like balancing a budget two things have an effect, inputs and outputs. To lose weight one must manage the inputs and exert some outputs. For me, I am going to start with outputs.
I made myself some very achievable short term goals. For example, this week they had absolutely nothing to do with losing weight. I told myself I would get up early in the morning twice this week and do at least 15 minutes of exercise. I was very excited to achieve my goal. Was it a stretch goal, absolutely not. It was a baby step goal. One to prove to myself it is worth it. That the gains made in those days were wiped out today with lunch, was not the concern.
It was the small baby step towards new habits that was important. I am testing a new theory. One that says years of bad habits were made one small step at a time and years of new habits can start the same way. You know the old saying, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”
I was thinking yesterday, I do that a lot while mowing the yard, why is it so hard to break habits? Seriously, everyone has a tip or trick to help you break your addictions or behaviors. Some are twelve steps. Some are 21 days. Some are cold turkey. The common key is they all are merely one step away from backsliding.
Then I had a revelation. Creating the bad habit was a long slow process. I didn’t wake up ten years ago and say “I think I will start the following self destructive behavior”. No, rather it was small baby steps towards stupidity or small decisions that were every so slight movements in the wrong direction. Sometimes I could tell the decisions were bad, but in the moment the good far outweighed the bad. I only later to learned of unforeseen or unforgiving consequences.
Now I am not talking about huge issues in life. Rather the many small ones that have compounded. For instance, I am addicted to french fries. And it is no small addiction. I would rather eat good french fries than my meal. I systematically rank places on their fries. If I need ketchup, you know there is a problem. My french fry addiction must be a contributing factor in my “slightly larger than healthy” weight.
I also cannot stand water. On a hot summer day, after sweating it out mowing the yard, I want a coke. Water makes my stomach hurt. I can feel the indigestion start from the first swallow. Somewhere along the way in my life, water was much more palatable with sugar, food coloring and corn syrup. I take this as another baby step (maybe literally taken as a baby) towards long term weight gain.
So I have decided to take a new approach, for me, on reversing some bad habits. Instead of tackling all of my vices at once, I am going to try to take small baby steps backwards. No cold turkey stops on Coke. No forgoing of McDonalds french fries. Rather, I plan to start with the other side of the equation. Just like balancing a budget two things have an effect, inputs and outputs. To lose weight one must manage the inputs and exert some outputs. For me, I am going to start with outputs.
I made myself some very achievable short term goals. For example, this week they had absolutely nothing to do with losing weight. I told myself I would get up early in the morning twice this week and do at least 15 minutes of exercise. I was very excited to achieve my goal. Was it a stretch goal, absolutely not. It was a baby step goal. One to prove to myself it is worth it. That the gains made in those days were wiped out today with lunch, was not the concern.
It was the small baby step towards new habits that was important. I am testing a new theory. One that says years of bad habits were made one small step at a time and years of new habits can start the same way. You know the old saying, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Texas Tech Football!
by Holly
Thanks to my brother's kind friend, we were able to go to the Tech season opener tonight using his season tickets and watch them win over North Dakota State. The Fighting Sioux. Since Justin would probably give you a very guy-like rundown of the game, I think I'll instead give you a top ten list of my evening's enjoyment.
1. Cagle's Steakhouse was at Raider Alley and I had a cardboard boat of steak and sausage with toothpicks. Now that is GameDay food!
2. There is now Kettlecorn at the games! (do you see a theme?)
3. Just in front of myself and Justin was a family with an adorable baby girl that couldn't have been over 6 weeks old. Darling.
4. I got teary during the school song and it totally caught me off guard.
5. I remembered every word to the school song and that was even more of a surprise.
6. Thoroughly enjoyed the cool Lubbock evening, once the sun went down.
7. Nice to be out for the afternoon and evening without having to cater to the demands of a toddler. (thanks Pops and Grandma for babysitting!)
8. Thought of said toddler many, many times during the game.
9. Besides my family, I saw 5 people I know.
10. Although I may not be a hardcore sports fan, I do bleed red and black.
Thanks to my brother's kind friend, we were able to go to the Tech season opener tonight using his season tickets and watch them win over North Dakota State. The Fighting Sioux. Since Justin would probably give you a very guy-like rundown of the game, I think I'll instead give you a top ten list of my evening's enjoyment.
1. Cagle's Steakhouse was at Raider Alley and I had a cardboard boat of steak and sausage with toothpicks. Now that is GameDay food!
2. There is now Kettlecorn at the games! (do you see a theme?)
3. Just in front of myself and Justin was a family with an adorable baby girl that couldn't have been over 6 weeks old. Darling.
4. I got teary during the school song and it totally caught me off guard.
5. I remembered every word to the school song and that was even more of a surprise.
6. Thoroughly enjoyed the cool Lubbock evening, once the sun went down.
7. Nice to be out for the afternoon and evening without having to cater to the demands of a toddler. (thanks Pops and Grandma for babysitting!)
8. Thought of said toddler many, many times during the game.
9. Besides my family, I saw 5 people I know.
10. Although I may not be a hardcore sports fan, I do bleed red and black.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Randomness
by Holly
1. I'm never out and about in traffic in the mornings anymore.
2. I never watch the news, or really TV in general anymore.
So it was really crazy that today I saw on the shoulder of the Loop a red pickup with its tire at an odd angle, and then on the 10:00 news I saw that same pickup smashed to pieces because it was hit by another vehicle while it was parked on the shoulder of the Loop.
1. I'm never out and about in traffic in the mornings anymore.
2. I never watch the news, or really TV in general anymore.
So it was really crazy that today I saw on the shoulder of the Loop a red pickup with its tire at an odd angle, and then on the 10:00 news I saw that same pickup smashed to pieces because it was hit by another vehicle while it was parked on the shoulder of the Loop.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Post-Tubes
by Holly
Eli has Reactive Airway again. So we are doing albuterol and steroids with the nebulizer as well as an oral steroid and have started daily Zyrtec. He's taking it as well as you would expect an almost 2-year-old to. He's pretty wheezy and has a cough, but the docs felt okay to go ahead with the tubes, so we had that done early this morning. We were in the waiting room 20 minutes before the doctor was back out telling us all was fine. Amazing. Eli's been quite cranky today and only took a few catnaps but nothing substantial. Justin and I can hear his ears crackling so that's got to be maddening inside his head. Lots of drainage, but hopefully it will stop soon and he will regain his hearing and decrease these infections.
Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes. We know this is a minor procedure, but as parents of little ones, nothing is minor when its your child. An added blessing today was two of our friends from our new Sunday School class bringing us a wonderful meal. It was delicious and felt so good to be cared for!
Eli has Reactive Airway again. So we are doing albuterol and steroids with the nebulizer as well as an oral steroid and have started daily Zyrtec. He's taking it as well as you would expect an almost 2-year-old to. He's pretty wheezy and has a cough, but the docs felt okay to go ahead with the tubes, so we had that done early this morning. We were in the waiting room 20 minutes before the doctor was back out telling us all was fine. Amazing. Eli's been quite cranky today and only took a few catnaps but nothing substantial. Justin and I can hear his ears crackling so that's got to be maddening inside his head. Lots of drainage, but hopefully it will stop soon and he will regain his hearing and decrease these infections.
Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes. We know this is a minor procedure, but as parents of little ones, nothing is minor when its your child. An added blessing today was two of our friends from our new Sunday School class bringing us a wonderful meal. It was delicious and felt so good to be cared for!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Lost in the Shuffle
by Holly
Its awesome to see so many 'first day of school' photos on Blogs and FaceBook. Its wonderful to feel the spark of excitement in the air around people geared up for the new school year. It makes me smile to see school supplies at WalMart and little kids excited about their new backpacks.
Aw... we are totally missing out on this. Our next door neighbors are 3 college guys back in Lubbock for the next semester so its fun to see them back, but personally, not affecting us. Am I crazy to long for the dorm days, the time of fun we had with our friends, the anticipation of what our professors would be like and how hard the classes would be? The school zones are one down side, but thankfully I don't drive during school zone hours, so no problem for me.
I know I should enjoy the season of life I'm in, revelling in how precious our almost-two year old is and that before I know it he will be in school himself, walking the two blocks to his elementary school holding mom's hand and then saying goodbye. I'm not ready for that day, but maybe we could just borrow someone else's schooltime joy for a bit.
Maybe I'll just go buy a pack of newly sharpened pencils and smell them like Kathleen Kelly does in 'You've Got Mail'. :)
Its awesome to see so many 'first day of school' photos on Blogs and FaceBook. Its wonderful to feel the spark of excitement in the air around people geared up for the new school year. It makes me smile to see school supplies at WalMart and little kids excited about their new backpacks.
Aw... we are totally missing out on this. Our next door neighbors are 3 college guys back in Lubbock for the next semester so its fun to see them back, but personally, not affecting us. Am I crazy to long for the dorm days, the time of fun we had with our friends, the anticipation of what our professors would be like and how hard the classes would be? The school zones are one down side, but thankfully I don't drive during school zone hours, so no problem for me.
I know I should enjoy the season of life I'm in, revelling in how precious our almost-two year old is and that before I know it he will be in school himself, walking the two blocks to his elementary school holding mom's hand and then saying goodbye. I'm not ready for that day, but maybe we could just borrow someone else's schooltime joy for a bit.
Maybe I'll just go buy a pack of newly sharpened pencils and smell them like Kathleen Kelly does in 'You've Got Mail'. :)
Friday, August 21, 2009
A Whole Weekend
by Justin
What would you do if you had a whole weekend to yourself? The wife is out of town. The kid is away to grandparents? What would you do?
What would you do if you had a whole weekend to yourself? The wife is out of town. The kid is away to grandparents? What would you do?
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Big D!
by Holly
I'm putting the finishing touches on my packing/last minute to-do list before I head out to the Big D! Or Big A (Allen), however you want to think of it. I'm going to the Women of Faith Conference this weekend at the American Airlines Center, and staying with my friend Erin for the weekend. We went to the conference last year and jumped on this year's tickets as soon as they were available. What an experience!
Eli is also going away for the weekend, to stay with Nana and Papa, so Justin has the weekend to himself! I expect great things from him- sleeping, playing FarmTown, eating cereal 3 times a day... :) Enjoy your weekend dear!
I'm putting the finishing touches on my packing/last minute to-do list before I head out to the Big D! Or Big A (Allen), however you want to think of it. I'm going to the Women of Faith Conference this weekend at the American Airlines Center, and staying with my friend Erin for the weekend. We went to the conference last year and jumped on this year's tickets as soon as they were available. What an experience!
Eli is also going away for the weekend, to stay with Nana and Papa, so Justin has the weekend to himself! I expect great things from him- sleeping, playing FarmTown, eating cereal 3 times a day... :) Enjoy your weekend dear!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Hi I’m…
By Justin
Following today’s title standards I wish to now be referred to as:
Justin T. Noble, HD, MBA, MArch, ES, CIA
Seriously, isn’t enough enough on this stuff? I have been annoyed for a long time about people who place long series of initials after their names. The reality is most people don’t have a clue what they mean, and anyone who does understand really isn’t impressed.
I propose we change from initials to spelling it all out. At least then we will know what you are bragging about. With this I now wish to be referred to as:
Justin Thomas Noble, High School Diploma, Masters of Business Administration, Master of Architecture, Eagle Scout, Certified Internal Auditor
I will need bigger business cards, but it will be worth it in so I can brag on all my accomplishments. I think the initials that drive me nuts are the ones where people have started listing their degrees. Recently I have seen three different people put MBA after their name. Okay, let’s just be honest. I have an MBA. Is it an accomplishment, yes. The truth is that they are handed out like candy to make people feel good about having an ‘advanced’ degree and can get 100 more a month at their job. Some people parlay the MBA into senior management, but let’s not kid ourselves that it was a difficult item to attain and thus worthy of tacking it on to our name like we are a doctor or something. And seriously when did your degree get placed on a business card?
I have also witnessed this with Holly’s career. She signes her name, HNoble, RN. While she is required to include the RN, other coworkers have decided to do JJones, RN, BSN, XYZ. Somehow while doing the same job as everyone else, it is necessary to include the fact that you have a bachelor of nursing not just an associates. It begs the question, “If you have your bachelors, and it is worth calling out, why are you not doing something better than me”? I know the answer, but that may take cynical to the next level.
Alas I will just stick to my original plan. Let’s just all be people who do a job and forget about the “stuff behind the name.”
Thanks,
Justin T. Noble
P.S. If you think mine is bad you should look at Holly's:
Holly Jyl Jack Noble, Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, Associates of Applied Sciences in Nursing, Registered Nurse, Registered Bone Densitographer or Holly J. Noble, BHDFS, ASN, RN, RBD. Or just Holly for short.
Following today’s title standards I wish to now be referred to as:
Justin T. Noble, HD, MBA, MArch, ES, CIA
Seriously, isn’t enough enough on this stuff? I have been annoyed for a long time about people who place long series of initials after their names. The reality is most people don’t have a clue what they mean, and anyone who does understand really isn’t impressed.
I propose we change from initials to spelling it all out. At least then we will know what you are bragging about. With this I now wish to be referred to as:
Justin Thomas Noble, High School Diploma, Masters of Business Administration, Master of Architecture, Eagle Scout, Certified Internal Auditor
I will need bigger business cards, but it will be worth it in so I can brag on all my accomplishments. I think the initials that drive me nuts are the ones where people have started listing their degrees. Recently I have seen three different people put MBA after their name. Okay, let’s just be honest. I have an MBA. Is it an accomplishment, yes. The truth is that they are handed out like candy to make people feel good about having an ‘advanced’ degree and can get 100 more a month at their job. Some people parlay the MBA into senior management, but let’s not kid ourselves that it was a difficult item to attain and thus worthy of tacking it on to our name like we are a doctor or something. And seriously when did your degree get placed on a business card?
I have also witnessed this with Holly’s career. She signes her name, HNoble, RN. While she is required to include the RN, other coworkers have decided to do JJones, RN, BSN, XYZ. Somehow while doing the same job as everyone else, it is necessary to include the fact that you have a bachelor of nursing not just an associates. It begs the question, “If you have your bachelors, and it is worth calling out, why are you not doing something better than me”? I know the answer, but that may take cynical to the next level.
Alas I will just stick to my original plan. Let’s just all be people who do a job and forget about the “stuff behind the name.”
Thanks,
Justin T. Noble
P.S. If you think mine is bad you should look at Holly's:
Holly Jyl Jack Noble, Bachelors of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, Associates of Applied Sciences in Nursing, Registered Nurse, Registered Bone Densitographer or Holly J. Noble, BHDFS, ASN, RN, RBD. Or just Holly for short.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Eli's Ears
by Holly
Thanks for all of your comments and suggestions on our Stealth Baby. The last two nights have actually been doable, last night like old times. Went to sleep easy and stayed in his bed without a peep until I went to get him up for school. I do believe this whole escapade is due to two things combined: 1) He is a toddler and is learning about his environment, and 2) He has horrible fluid and chronic infections in his ears and he doesn't feel well, so he's not himself.
That said, here's the rundown from the ENT appointment yesterday. Eli first had a hearing test by an audiologist, which was a very interesting process. We both went into a booth, where I sat in a chair with Eli on my lap facing a corner. She turned the lights off in the room outside the booth and watched us through a small window. There were two speakers in the booth, one to our left and one to our right. Below each speaker was a glass fronted box with a toy inside. These were darkened. As she would play a sound, if Eli heard it and looked to the correct speaker, she would 'reward' him by lighting up the box under that speaker to allow him to see the toy. This kept him looking at the speakers to let us know what he was hearing. I was urged not to prompt him and I didn't. What was disturbing is the number of sounds Eli didn't hear at all, or some that he heard but wasn't sure where it was coming from.
We were told later by the doctor that Eli's level of hearing right now is like us trying to listen with our hands held tight over our ears. That made me feel horrible, not that I've done anything wrong as his mother, or neglected to do something I should have done, b/c I've been playing by the rules set forth by our pediatrician, and I trust and respect him. Still, I feel bad for Eli. The hearing loss is not permanent and should come back almost instantly once we have his tubes placed, which is scheduled for August 27th. That's how long we have to wait for an early morning appointment, to avoid forcing Eli to fast during daylight hours. Bless them for thinking of that!
The verdict for now is that Eli has a lot of fluid in his ears, but it is not currently infected. The reason he can't hear is b/c that fluid is pushing against his eardrums, prohibiting them from moving as they normally should. Once the tubes are placed and the fluid is drained, he should be back to his normal self for the most part.
Here's something: I have noticed in the last couple of weeks that the adorable animal sounds and words that Eli can say have become more muffled, less clear than they have been as he's learned them. I wondered why he wouldn't care as much about pronunciation as he first did, but here's our answer. He can't hear correctly, so he can't speak correctly.
Thank you for reading and please pray that the tube placement is easy and without complication, that his hearing and wellness return quickly and that we can all get our normal Eli back!
Thanks for all of your comments and suggestions on our Stealth Baby. The last two nights have actually been doable, last night like old times. Went to sleep easy and stayed in his bed without a peep until I went to get him up for school. I do believe this whole escapade is due to two things combined: 1) He is a toddler and is learning about his environment, and 2) He has horrible fluid and chronic infections in his ears and he doesn't feel well, so he's not himself.
That said, here's the rundown from the ENT appointment yesterday. Eli first had a hearing test by an audiologist, which was a very interesting process. We both went into a booth, where I sat in a chair with Eli on my lap facing a corner. She turned the lights off in the room outside the booth and watched us through a small window. There were two speakers in the booth, one to our left and one to our right. Below each speaker was a glass fronted box with a toy inside. These were darkened. As she would play a sound, if Eli heard it and looked to the correct speaker, she would 'reward' him by lighting up the box under that speaker to allow him to see the toy. This kept him looking at the speakers to let us know what he was hearing. I was urged not to prompt him and I didn't. What was disturbing is the number of sounds Eli didn't hear at all, or some that he heard but wasn't sure where it was coming from.
We were told later by the doctor that Eli's level of hearing right now is like us trying to listen with our hands held tight over our ears. That made me feel horrible, not that I've done anything wrong as his mother, or neglected to do something I should have done, b/c I've been playing by the rules set forth by our pediatrician, and I trust and respect him. Still, I feel bad for Eli. The hearing loss is not permanent and should come back almost instantly once we have his tubes placed, which is scheduled for August 27th. That's how long we have to wait for an early morning appointment, to avoid forcing Eli to fast during daylight hours. Bless them for thinking of that!
The verdict for now is that Eli has a lot of fluid in his ears, but it is not currently infected. The reason he can't hear is b/c that fluid is pushing against his eardrums, prohibiting them from moving as they normally should. Once the tubes are placed and the fluid is drained, he should be back to his normal self for the most part.
Here's something: I have noticed in the last couple of weeks that the adorable animal sounds and words that Eli can say have become more muffled, less clear than they have been as he's learned them. I wondered why he wouldn't care as much about pronunciation as he first did, but here's our answer. He can't hear correctly, so he can't speak correctly.
Thank you for reading and please pray that the tube placement is easy and without complication, that his hearing and wellness return quickly and that we can all get our normal Eli back!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Project Stealth Baby
by Holly
If you are on FB, you know Eli has been sneaking through the house at night and scaring the bejeebers out of us at all hours. From what I'm hearing, this is normal development and the basic gist is 'Welcome to parenthood.' Wow, thought I was already there, but this is a whole new experience.
To start from the beginning, we have been hugely blessed that Eli never tried to climb out of his crib, slept well in the pack 'n play for the 2 months we lived in the travel trailer and transitioned easily to the toddler bed when we moved into this house when he was 15 months old. We've been so proud of his resilience and also the fact that when he wakens, he plays with his stuffed bear and moose or talks to himself until we go get him. That all changed last Saturday, when he showed up next to my side of the bed at 9 am, with Taggy in tow (his blankie). We thought it was adorable that he was big enough to walk to the other side of the house and find us, with such a precious little proud-of-himself grin.
Adorable until that night at 3 am when he repeated his performance. We found out he is Stealth Baby, making no sound whatsoever as he gets out of bed and walks through the pitch dark house to our room and stands staring at me until he loses patience or gets scared and starts wailing. I have never woken so suddenly or sat up so straight in my life. What good is a baby monitor if there is no noise to warn you of these goings-on?? It took only 10 minutes to get him back to sleep in his own bed, but an hour and fifteen for me to calm my heart and reassure myself that he wasn't coming back anytime in the next couple of hours. Justin lay awake feeling the same panic I did.
The next evening I purchased a baby gate. Its a cool, yet expensive, one that has a walk-through feature and extra pieces to adjust to several doorway sizes. It took a degree to assemble it, as the instructions could have been written by a 3 year old and made just as much sense. Needless to say, Eli was already asleep when I got it finished so I couldn't put it up that night. Too bad, b/c here he came about 30 minutes later. It was a rough night.
First night using the baby gate: We showed it to him to get him used to the idea and he didn't care one bit; kept on playing. Went to sleep easily and slept all night. Had to wake him the next morning for school.
Second night using the baby gate: Went to sleep on attempt #2, after calling in the Big Guns (aka Daddy). Slept all night, until 5:30, a full hour and a half before the alarm was set. Thankfully Daddy took his turn and found Eli standing at the baby gate, mad that he was trapped in his room. He got Eli back to sleep in his own bed in just a few minutes and got a little more shut-eye before it really was time to get up.
That brings us to now. I'm nursing a Tall Nonfat Iced Latte w/ One Splenda. Ahhh.....
Any prospective babysitters??
If you are on FB, you know Eli has been sneaking through the house at night and scaring the bejeebers out of us at all hours. From what I'm hearing, this is normal development and the basic gist is 'Welcome to parenthood.' Wow, thought I was already there, but this is a whole new experience.
To start from the beginning, we have been hugely blessed that Eli never tried to climb out of his crib, slept well in the pack 'n play for the 2 months we lived in the travel trailer and transitioned easily to the toddler bed when we moved into this house when he was 15 months old. We've been so proud of his resilience and also the fact that when he wakens, he plays with his stuffed bear and moose or talks to himself until we go get him. That all changed last Saturday, when he showed up next to my side of the bed at 9 am, with Taggy in tow (his blankie). We thought it was adorable that he was big enough to walk to the other side of the house and find us, with such a precious little proud-of-himself grin.
Adorable until that night at 3 am when he repeated his performance. We found out he is Stealth Baby, making no sound whatsoever as he gets out of bed and walks through the pitch dark house to our room and stands staring at me until he loses patience or gets scared and starts wailing. I have never woken so suddenly or sat up so straight in my life. What good is a baby monitor if there is no noise to warn you of these goings-on?? It took only 10 minutes to get him back to sleep in his own bed, but an hour and fifteen for me to calm my heart and reassure myself that he wasn't coming back anytime in the next couple of hours. Justin lay awake feeling the same panic I did.
The next evening I purchased a baby gate. Its a cool, yet expensive, one that has a walk-through feature and extra pieces to adjust to several doorway sizes. It took a degree to assemble it, as the instructions could have been written by a 3 year old and made just as much sense. Needless to say, Eli was already asleep when I got it finished so I couldn't put it up that night. Too bad, b/c here he came about 30 minutes later. It was a rough night.
First night using the baby gate: We showed it to him to get him used to the idea and he didn't care one bit; kept on playing. Went to sleep easily and slept all night. Had to wake him the next morning for school.
Second night using the baby gate: Went to sleep on attempt #2, after calling in the Big Guns (aka Daddy). Slept all night, until 5:30, a full hour and a half before the alarm was set. Thankfully Daddy took his turn and found Eli standing at the baby gate, mad that he was trapped in his room. He got Eli back to sleep in his own bed in just a few minutes and got a little more shut-eye before it really was time to get up.
That brings us to now. I'm nursing a Tall Nonfat Iced Latte w/ One Splenda. Ahhh.....
Any prospective babysitters??
Saturday, August 08, 2009
The Return
By Justin
This blog was started by me at the begging request of ‘The Boys’. Trey, Scott, Armand and Ethan (The Boys) all had blogs and we kept each other up to date on life through them. Well it seems that life has gotten in the way of their blogs. Slowly but surely each one has dropped off the face of the blog world and thus our friends links to the right.
So in a directly proportionally way, my blog became the family blog. The less I blogged on my random thoughts and escapades, the more Holly blogged on family happenings. Now “Holly’s Friends” (which I count many among my friends) far outnumber the number of “Justin’s Friends” as readers. So I am at a crossroads.
Should I return to the blog? Should I create a whole new blog? After thoughtful consideration I am returning to this blog. In the true nature of even our family makeup, I will bring the off the wall happenings, sometime thoughtful considerations, but more often than not the cynical view from my end of this world.
Some of you will like it. Some of you will see ‘by Justin’ and move on. But mostly I don’t care. Our Blog is meant to capture our life. My life includes the odd daily happenings, watching Eli grow up and even the random thoughts that travel through my head.
Some of you are Facebook friends with me. If so, watch out. The random status updates I post might just become all out blog post. Now that should be frightening.
I also think it is prudent (since many of you haven’t spent significant time around me) to explain my cynical head. Many many people think I am a pessimist. They think I see the whole world as bleak and unfortunate. The reality is I am not a pessimist, but I am neither an optimist. I classify myself as a realist. In the old ‘glass half empty, glass half full’ analogy, I really don’t care which it is. The reality it is neither. What I want you to understand is it is NEITHER. If you say it is half full, you are wrong. If you say the glass is half empty you are wrong. It is both. And my close friends will tell you that I will stand on the street corner and yell at you till you acknowledge that fact. (Thanks to Jenise for helping me put the analogy together, on our daytrip to New Orleans of all places!)
So as I close, prepare yourself. I have made my return.
This blog was started by me at the begging request of ‘The Boys’. Trey, Scott, Armand and Ethan (The Boys) all had blogs and we kept each other up to date on life through them. Well it seems that life has gotten in the way of their blogs. Slowly but surely each one has dropped off the face of the blog world and thus our friends links to the right.
So in a directly proportionally way, my blog became the family blog. The less I blogged on my random thoughts and escapades, the more Holly blogged on family happenings. Now “Holly’s Friends” (which I count many among my friends) far outnumber the number of “Justin’s Friends” as readers. So I am at a crossroads.
Should I return to the blog? Should I create a whole new blog? After thoughtful consideration I am returning to this blog. In the true nature of even our family makeup, I will bring the off the wall happenings, sometime thoughtful considerations, but more often than not the cynical view from my end of this world.
Some of you will like it. Some of you will see ‘by Justin’ and move on. But mostly I don’t care. Our Blog is meant to capture our life. My life includes the odd daily happenings, watching Eli grow up and even the random thoughts that travel through my head.
Some of you are Facebook friends with me. If so, watch out. The random status updates I post might just become all out blog post. Now that should be frightening.
I also think it is prudent (since many of you haven’t spent significant time around me) to explain my cynical head. Many many people think I am a pessimist. They think I see the whole world as bleak and unfortunate. The reality is I am not a pessimist, but I am neither an optimist. I classify myself as a realist. In the old ‘glass half empty, glass half full’ analogy, I really don’t care which it is. The reality it is neither. What I want you to understand is it is NEITHER. If you say it is half full, you are wrong. If you say the glass is half empty you are wrong. It is both. And my close friends will tell you that I will stand on the street corner and yell at you till you acknowledge that fact. (Thanks to Jenise for helping me put the analogy together, on our daytrip to New Orleans of all places!)
So as I close, prepare yourself. I have made my return.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Camping Trip
by Holly
We went camping in New Mexico with Holly's family this past weekend for 3 nights, which was wonderful but went by too quickly. The nights were cold and the days warm, allowing us to enjoy the weather but also have campfires at night. The crowd included the three of us, Holly's parents, Holly's brother and his family, and family friends Bill and Wanda. B&W have been camping with us, or rather us with them and their family since Holly was 2 months old. Great memories! We had to come home on Monday to return for work, but everyone else went on to Colorado to the campground we always went to growing up. I'm sad and jealous to be missing out on that, as we haven't been there in about 10 years. I spoke with my mom today and she said it is just as beautiful as ever and they are having a wonderful time.
Eli digging in the dirt. Yes, that's a flower behind his ear- he picked it and gave it to Nana but promptly wanted it back!
Jared and his two fish he caught that day. My dad calls him Willie Two Fish, as he always seems to catch them in two's.
Justin doing his thing with the campfire. Yes, that's lighter fluid. Wouldn't the Boy Scouts be proud? Seriously, we appreciated him keeping wood chopped and the fire stoked.
Group photo before we left this campground on Monday:
We went camping in New Mexico with Holly's family this past weekend for 3 nights, which was wonderful but went by too quickly. The nights were cold and the days warm, allowing us to enjoy the weather but also have campfires at night. The crowd included the three of us, Holly's parents, Holly's brother and his family, and family friends Bill and Wanda. B&W have been camping with us, or rather us with them and their family since Holly was 2 months old. Great memories! We had to come home on Monday to return for work, but everyone else went on to Colorado to the campground we always went to growing up. I'm sad and jealous to be missing out on that, as we haven't been there in about 10 years. I spoke with my mom today and she said it is just as beautiful as ever and they are having a wonderful time.
Eli digging in the dirt. Yes, that's a flower behind his ear- he picked it and gave it to Nana but promptly wanted it back! 
Jared and his two fish he caught that day. My dad calls him Willie Two Fish, as he always seems to catch them in two's.
Justin doing his thing with the campfire. Yes, that's lighter fluid. Wouldn't the Boy Scouts be proud? Seriously, we appreciated him keeping wood chopped and the fire stoked.
Group photo before we left this campground on Monday:Back row- Dad, Kelly, Jared, Teresa, Mom
Front row- Holly, Eli, Justin, Tyler
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