Wednesday, August 30, 2006

The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Preschool Days

So the kids have now been attending their preschool (AKA - Mother's Morning Out) for 3 weeks now. They only attend school for one day a week, for four hours. I have enjoyed my time away (running all of my errands) and having a quite lunch with Jason (our weekly date). The kids had so much fun on their first day and their second day was okay. I was informed on their second day that Abby Kate was a little "clingy" and seemed to be getting tired. No big deal - until yesterday!

Yesterday morning started out a little rough. Abby Kate woke up at 7:30 (a bit early for her) screaming. I ran into her room and found her crying while standing up on the floor. She was not in her crib - did she climb out or did she fall? (Jason lowered her bed to the last rung last night). I brought her back to bed with me and we snuggled until I had to get up and get myself ready. Joshua woke up shortly after Abby Kate (early for him as well). I helped Jason load the van and off they went. I called Jason to find out how they did when he dropped them off and he said that it was horrible! They both were crying when he left. We received a call from the preschool around 11:30 telling us that Abby Kate was not doing to well. She had been crying for awhile and they could not get her calmed down. Jason and I decided to go and pick up Abby Kate a little early.

When we arrived at the preschool to pick up Abby Kate, we were met at the door with Joshua crying as well. (Apparently when they removed Abby Kate from the room, Joshua did not like it and he, too, began to cry). The director explained that all of the crying was probably "separation anxiety". She was so nice and told us to bring them back tomorrow if they were fine when we got home. The director told us that some kids can not handle coming only one day a week.

I took both kids home and they took their naps. When they woke up, they were just as happy as they could be. They played together all evening.

This morning, Jason and I set off to try our preschool again. We walked into the door and all seemed okay. We started walking down the hallway to our classroom (Joshua was actually leading us down to his room) and all still seemed okay. Once in the room, we hit a brick wall. They both started crying and screaming. (But we were doing so good). Jason and I finally left the room and waited down the hall. We heard the both of them screaming (mad screaming) at the door to the preschool. The director went in to check on them and said that Joshua had finally calmed down, but that Abby Kate was having a more difficult time with it. Needless to say, we left and I went about my day.

About an hour later, I called to check in on the kids. Joshua was doing okay (that was until they left the classroom to head down to the gym) and Abby Kate was crying in "waves". The director said that this is a sign of "separation anxiety". She was not crying for 20 minutes, but she was crying in short little bits.

Jason and I arrived to pick up Joshua and Abby Kate a little before 1:00. We found the kids in the gym. All of the other children were sitting in a circle, while my two were sitting in the lap of one of their teachers. As soon as Jason and I walked in, they both started to cry and instantly wanted to be held. I talked with the teachers and they said that this is completely normal. They told me that as soon as one child would stop crying, the other would start. I guess that they took turns all day. On the ride home, both kids were talking to me and were in great moods. I don't get it!

Over the past few weeks and months, I have noticed the bond between the two of them growing stronger. They have always had each other! Just the other day, I was holding Abby Kate in my lap comforting her from her fall. Joshua took a spill on the floor and came up to me crying. I picked him up and started to comfort him as well. I had Abby Kate on one leg and Joshua was on the other. Abby Kate stopped crying and instantly started rubbing Joshua's head for him and patting him on the back. She then bent down to his face and told him something (momma didn't understand the words that time). It was so sweet! They have really started playing well with each other. Last night, they chased each other all over the living room and tackled one another.

I am so confused right now about my Mother's Morning Out. I don't want the kids to cry the whole time. I also want them to be okay when separated from me. Will this end? If so, when? How do we make this easier on all of us? What do you guys think I should do?

Monday, August 28, 2006

Our Trip to the County Fair

On Friday, Jason and I loaded up the van and drove up to Lebanon. My parents had invited us up to go to the Wilson County Fair. Friday evening we all loaded up in our van and headed over to the fairgrounds. My mom and dad kept the kids entertained the whole way there riding in the seat behind them.

Abby Kate and Joshua were so amazed with all of the sights and sounds of all that the fair had to offer. Joshua and Abby Kate saw the cows - moo! Jason and I ran into several of our friends from high school. We took the kids into the petting zoo. They had a slew of goats and lamas and even one very large camel. One goat was a little too friendly to Abby Kate! He really scared her and she cried until we left. After seeing all of the goats, we ventured to the next attraction - potbellied pigs that actually raced!

My dad and Jason decided to take a turn on the old "Zipper". I think that it was a little too much for my dad! My mom and I rode my all time favorite - "The Scrambler". Abby Kate and Joshua rode their first ride while at the fair. Jason and I took them on the carousel. They loved it so much that we had to do it again! Before we left, we decided to watch a little demolition derby!

Abby Kate and Joshua were treated to ice cream and even some cotton candy. Abby Kate loved the cotton candy, but Joshua was pretty grossed out by the texture.

We had so much fun with my family at the county fair!

On Saturday, we visited with Richard and Tara. It had been a while since we last saw them. Later that afternoon, we all went swimming at the Floyd Life Center. Abby Kate and Joshua really love to swim, so they had a blast at the pool.

Friday, August 25, 2006

So I've Been Tagged

My friend Jon "tagged" me the other day. Basically you answer these questions, post them to your blog and then "tag" 5 others to post their answers to the same questions on their blog. I've never done this before, but here goes:

1. One book that changed your life:
Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. My good friend Alisha let me borrow this book. It helped me rely more on God and rely on myself less. Taught me to take a deep breath and allow God to be in control.

2. One book that you've read more than once:
Double Duty by Christina Baglivi Tinglof. I'm constantly referring to this book, a practical guide to raising twins.

3. One book you'd want on a desert island:
The Bible. Maybe then I'd have my quiet time!

4. One book that made you laugh:
Belly Laughs by Jenny McCarthy. I read this one while I was pregnant. I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to everybody (language, etc.).

5. One book that made you cry:
The Notebook by Nicolas Sparks. Any book by Nicolas Sparks makes me cry. This was the first one of his that I read.

6. One book you wish had been written:
A book about all the questions that I need answered in raising twins.

7. One book you wish had never been written:
Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb by Al Perkins. "One hand, Two hands, Drumming on a drum, Dum ditty dum ditty dum dum dum..." You try reading this 50 times a day and tell me it's not annoying.

8. One book you're currently reading:
The Strong Willed Child by James Dobson. Just trying to get a better grasp on my two strong willed children.

9. One book you've been meaning to read:
Grace Based Parenting by Tim Kimmel. As if I haven't been reading enough books on parenting...

10. Tag five others:
Tara, Jenna, Tracy, Rebecca, Lucy. I'd love to hear your answers!

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

My Joy



Joshua and Abby Kate fill my life with so much joy! They are at such a fun age. (I feel like I say that with every stage). I have been able to soak up each and every moment over the past two years. Joshua and Abby Kate are always talking, giving kisses and hugs, and singing The Wheels on the Bus and the ABC's.

Abby Kate loves to play with her baby doll (her birthday gift from Avery). She also LOVES the color yellow! Joshua is passionate about ball (baseball, basketball and football) and his Cardinal's baseball hat! They are very aware of each other. Anytime that they are apart, the other one is constantly talking about their bubba or sissy. Joshua always makes sure that Abby Kate has a toy in her hands; if not, he is quick to find one for her. Abby Kate loves to cheer for Joshua. She is very encouraging to him (especially at the dinner table). It has been so amazing to watch the relationship between the two of them.

I am blessed to be their momma!

Monday, August 21, 2006

All is Quiet

All is quiet in our house.

I can not fall asleep.

My mind is racing with things that I need to do, as well as things that I want to do.

In the morning, I will wake to the sounds of my children calling out my name.

The day will be fun and exciting.

I wonder what new thing they will learn.

The day will bring about many challenges as my children test the limits.

I find peace in this quiet moment.

In this quietness, I find time to reflect on my life.

I find the time to talk with my God.

God has blessed me with so much!

I have a wonderful husband who loves me just as I am.

I have two precious children that have given my life so much joy.

I have a family that loves me and cares deeply for me.

I have friends who make me laugh, who listen to me, and who encourage me.

I have a Savior who gave His life for me.

Do I live my life in such a way that reflects His image?

May my life be worthy of His calling.

May my strength come from Him.

May my attitude be like that of Christ Himself.

All is quiet in our house.

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Please RETURN shopping carts HERE!


How many times have you been to the store, only to find the parking lot littered with shopping carts?

Today, Jason and I made our weekly run to Wal-Mart. We quickly searched the parking lot for a vacant spot. We found it: the premiere parking spot - aisle closest to the door, 3rd spot (after the two handicapped spots). Jason quickly wheeled the van into the slot before anyone else could snatch it from us, only to come to an abrupt stop. Now we could see why this spot was vacant: someone had left their buggy right there in the middle of this beautiful parking spot. I had to get out of the van to go and move it so we could fit in.

A few questions come to mind...

Why do people not return their shopping carts?

Why do they feel the need to leave their buggy right beside my van?

Why can people not walk the 25 feet from their car to return their buggy?

Why do some people walk the 25 feet to return their buggy, and then leave it on the outside of the shopping cart return?

Why do people walk the 25 feet to return their shopping cart, and then not even push their buggy into the return?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Unlike most, I always return my shopping cart. I have never understood how someone could be so lazy as to leave their buggy stranded in the parking lot.

So, what about you? Are you a shopping cart returner? If not, shame on you! Next time, return your buggy to the shopping cart return!

Monday, August 14, 2006

Happy Anniversary Baby!

Happy 7th Anniversary Jason!

Seven years ago, we proclaimed our love to each other before countless family and friends (Jason shares all of the details of the day on his blog). Today, I do the same...

Jason, I love you so much! You are my best friend, my husband, my partner, my support and my love for all time. Who would have known that dinner at Wendy's and a date to see "Forget Paris" over 11 years ago would lead to this. I have treasured every single minute with you as my husband. I feel honored to be called your wife. I am proud of the man that you are. I am proud of the example that you are to our children. I am so blessed that God saw fit to join our two hearts together. Thank you for sharing your life with me. My heart belongs to you and you alone.

And "Baby, you're the greatest!"

Thursday, August 10, 2006

Abby Kate's First Haircut

Abby Kate waiting to get her first haricut!








No! Please don't cut it!












Daddy is bribing me with M & M's. Yummy!








I don't know if I like this! What a pouty face!








All done! Momma is so happy! I still have my curls!











Abby Kate and Joshua after their haircuts.













Abby Kate's first haircut!

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Bye Bye Curls...Maybe

Joshua's curly hair is a bit out of control. Jason is actually beginning to like this look, but it is beginning to drive me crazy! Time for our little boy to get a trim!



After much debate, I have scheduled an appointment for Abby Kate to get a TRIM. I told my hairdresser that I might totally chicken out and not let her come near Abby Kate's golden curls. As of right now, I feel okay about the whole situation. It's just hair! Tomorrow I will be strong and let my little girl have her first haircut or trim. I might get really brave and just let the hairdresser do her own thing. I might want a detailed description of every strand of hair that she will touch with the scissors; only to back out.

I am actually pretty excited about this. I figure that if I postpone the haircut, it will only make it more difficult down the road. I will be strong. I will not cry. I will take lots of pictures. I will keep every curl. It will be a great day!

_______________

Some other news....

Our dear friends Jon and Stacy welcomed their baby girl into the world this morning. Jordan Page weighed in at 7 lbs. 7 oz. and was 20" long. You can check out Jon's blog for updated pictures. Abby Kate and Joshua are so excited about their new friends, Will and Jordan. They still have another friend coming in September.

I am really excited about our new ladies Bible class at church on Wednesday nights. We will be studying the life of David - "A Man After God's Own Heart". The room was packed with more than 100 women ready to learn more about the life of David. I think that the classes and "homework" will be very encouraging to me. As any mother will tell you; its hard to carve out that time to spend with God. I desperately need to find time to spend with my Lord daily.

Saturday, August 05, 2006

I am a mom!

For Father's Day this year, Abby Kate and Joshua gave their daddy tickets to a Cardinals game. This past Wednesday, Jason and I saw the St. Louis, Cardinals play the Philadelphia, Phillies. We had so much fun! (I only wish that the Cardinals would win a game). The kids stayed at their PawPaw and Nana's house. Jason and I always enjoy our time as a couple. I love and treasure our family time, but we desperately try to carve out time for the two of us.

While riding in the van somewhere between Illinois and Kentucky, Jason asked me an interesting question. He asked, "If you could choose any other profession or any other job, what would it be?" On road trips, we will ask each other questions like this all the time just to find out a little bit more about each other. After 11 years (I'm including the dating years here) there's not much about each other that we don't know. In case you do not know, I graduated from Lipscomb with an education degree. I taught 3rd grade before I had my two little ones. I loved teaching and I still do (I teach everyday)! I told Jason that if I could be anything, I would love to be a nurse. However, I absolutely hate needles! I am the worst stick. At the outpatient center that I frequent every 8 weeks, I am known as the woman with twins and bad veins. I would love nothing more than to care for others. Ever since our children were in the NICU, I have had such an appreciation for the NICU nurses. They are there not only for the babies, but also for the parents. I would love to be able to repay them for all that they did for us. If I could be a nurse, I would like to either work in the NICU (I feel that this would be incredibly difficult) or to be a labor and delivery nurse. I would also like to be a pharmacist. I don't know why, but it has always seemed interesting.

I have one other profession that I have always fantasized about - a hotel receptionist! This is by far the most random. I have no idea why the thought of this sounds all that appealing. For some reason, I have always thought about doing this. I might just have to go and apply right now!

The "profession" that I love more than any other, is being a stay at home mom. This "job" pays no money, but the benefits are incredible. I guess that you could say that I master all of the professions on a daily basis. I am a nurse, a pharmacist, a referee, a chef, a chauffeur, a coach, a teacher, an accountant, and a maid... I am also a comforter, a nurturer, and a listener. I AM A MOM!


If you could have any job or profession, what would it be?

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Baby Trevathan is here!

Our dear friends Corey and Alisha had their baby on Tuesday evening. Alisha endured a long and hard labor. William Luke Emmanuel was born at 6:07 pm. Will weighed in at 9 lbs. 1 oz. and was 21” long. WOW!

Jason and I are so excited for Corey and Alisha! May God continue His blessings on this precious family!

Check out the latest on their family blog!