A Time to Keep

Quotable 2011

2012-01-01T21:54:00.000-05:00

We are amazed and thankful at how God was so faithful to us in 2011! I was looking back in our family journal at some of our favorite quotes from the children and I thought I'd share them here. We decided some weren't appropriate for this blog, so you'll just have to come visit and read them for yourselves. Hope they make you smile.

Anna: Mommy, I STILL can't decide who I want to marry when I grow up.

Anna: Joshua, you can tell others about Jesus when you grow up!

Anna at breakfast one day: Mama, my eyes are old. They aren't working so well. I think I need new ones.

Upon presenting me with a lovely bouquet of flowers for Valentine's Day, Anna said, "I'm sorry there's no dandelions in them."

In the bathtub Anna was pretending to host a TV cooking show (like the ones we watch on PBS). I was the audience as she told me how to mix and what to pour in. Suddenly, she looked up and said, "You have to be nakey to make this recipe."

Anna: Grammie must have had a hard time naming Daddy.
Me: I don't think so. Daddy's daddy's name was John, so they named Daddy after him.
Anna: Then why is he called "Grampie:?

Anna, looking at a calendar and thinking ahead to her birthday said, "Joshua and I are kinda like twins because we were born on the same page and in the same week."

Joshua was in the shopping cart in the PX as we looked for new sneakers for him. I told him he needed big boy shoes. He held up his arms in "soooo big" fashion. I asked if he was big, he said, "Yeah! Dew!" and held up 2 fingers. I told him he wasn't 2 yet, but almost.

I was struggling to get Joshua out of the car with my hands already full of dry cleaning, a shopping bag, and the diaper bag. Anna asked, "Mama, do you need monkey hands?"

We were walking to the library one spring morning in the wet grass. Anna said, "It dewed last night!"

On the same walk to the library we smelled a skunk. Anna said, "It must have skunked someone. Or maybe it just skunked for fun."

Anna: I LOVE New Jersey.
Me: Really? Why?
Anna: Because they do your gas for you so you can go in and go potty and get a snack. I LOVE New Jersey!

We were outside one morning when the mailman walked up and gave us our mail. When he walked away, Anna said, "Hey! They wear cadet pants!"

Upon meeting Baby Elizabeth for the first time at the hospital, Joshua couldn't stop saying, "Aww...doot (cute.) Aww....doot baby. Aww....doot."

Throughout this Christmas season, anytime Joshua sees anything Christmas-y, such as trees, lights, etc., he exclaims, "Miss!" which is his word for "Christmas." Santa included. Joshua does not like Santa. At Daddy's work party, Santa gave candy and small gifts to the children. Joshua would not come out from behind my leg to talk to Santa. When Santa came over to him and offered a candy cane, a Joshua arm reached out, snatched that candy cane, then disappeared just as quickly behind my legs. Now, he says, "No Miss, Scared. No Miss," whenever he sees a Santa.

Happy New Year, everyone! May the reality of our Savior's gift of peace, hope, and joy be known, "far as the curse is found."

Look Who's 6 Months Old!

2011-12-11T16:11:00.001-05:00

I don't know where the last 6 months have gone! We are so thankful for this sweet girl and are enjoying each moment. We better....they seem to just fly by too quickly! Elizabeth loves to be held, loves attention from her brother and sister, but Anna can really get her to smile and giggle. Here are some more moments we've recently enjoyed.

Hats for all on a chilly day....yes, the pink flower headband even went OVER the hat. It's Anna's token accessory and completes any outfit she dons.

Joshua made his own version of the Nativity...

Elizabeth met her great-grandparents in VA at Thanksgiving. Below, with my grandmother and her namesake.

My Go Gran and 4 of his 10 great-grands!

Recently...

2011-10-16T20:31:00.000-05:00

2 Friday evenings ago we had 12 children under 6 years of age on our couch. A wonderful combination of Childresses, Golbys, Starlings, and Spahrs.

A happy Elizabeth, or, Bibiss, as we call her here. Thanks, Joshua, for a cute nickname.

So hard to believe she's 4 months now, though these photos are from a few weeks ago.

She's too cute! Must take more photos!!!

Anna ran her first race on Columbus Day. A 50 meter Fun Run with her school. Gotta start somewhere.

Anna's Newest Adventure

2011-09-14T19:54:00.003-05:00

KiNdeRgArtEn!!!!!

I can't believe the day came for my little companion to go off to school. Anna hasn't really left my side in her whole 5 and a half years. Anna's first day, and the days since have been a success. She goes off every day like she's done it all her life -- cool and confident is that little girl.

So far her favorite part of the day is recess....and coming home to snuggle with her baby sister. Who wouldn't love that?!

Beach Memories

2011-08-10T14:40:00.004-05:00

This is about all Elizabeth did the whole trip, with some feedings in between nappings. Sweet baby!!

We found many treasures in these tidal pools

When we weren't on the beach...

They had a whole ocean to swim in, yet they chose the way-too-little paddle pool!

"Let's look for starfish!"

Can anyone name this lighthouse?

We wish we were still there!

Just Photos

2011-07-06T17:50:00.001-05:00

Joshua's loot at the 4th of July parade

Elizabeth's first parade. Next year she'll be looking for candy!

We love our cadets, oh yes we do!

Hooray for the 4th of July!

Thank you, Granny, for spending 2 weeks with us!

...Because that's all everyone wants, right?

Welcome, Elizabeth Jane

2011-06-20T14:30:00.005-05:00

n Saturday June 11 at 10:50 pm we welcomed our third little blessing, Elizabeth Jane. She weighed 6 lbs, 15 oz and 21 inches -- matching her big brother in birth weight, but beating him in height by an inch. We are all enjoying her as we adjust to being a family of 5! Our cup (and our car) overflows! Thanks be to God for this beautiful, healthy baby girl.

Make Way for Ducklings - A Tour

2011-06-08T14:50:00.005-05:00

Memorial Day weekend found us in Boston. We were so excited to do our own version of a Make Way for Ducklings tour, as this book always seems to make the regular stack of favorites. The only problem was, in typical Marie-fashion, I neither charged the camera battery pre-trip, nor did I bring along the charger. Thankfully, we got some good duckling shots in before things got shut down. Thankfully, the fun didn't end with the battery, and we had a most wonderful weekend exploring the great things of Boston.

We found a great place to stay in Beacon, just a short waddle (literally, for me) from the Public Garden. So we had many a morning walk around the pond saying hello to the residents and checking on the youngest family of ducklings. They were SO tiny, but they could swim amazingly fast. Anna nicknamed them the "dabbling ducklings."

The New England Aquarium was a hit for our little folk. Though interested in the touch-tank of rays, Anna was NOT at all willing to do any touching.

Joshua got up close and personal with one of his passions: FISH. He was agape at this multi-level tank filled with all sorts of swimming things. "Ish! Ish! Ish!"

And that's all the photos I've got, friends. But I'm so thankful for new memories made and the fun that was had. It was a great way to spend a little time together before we make way for our next little duckling. The due date is a week away and we are very excited to meet her. Besides fish, milk, water, cars and other things that go, Joshua also has a hard time staying away from babies. We pray that love will gently transmit right to his baby sister, whom he thinks is in his tummy, oddly enough.

Still Thinking of Easter

2011-05-04T13:57:00.003-05:00

We've just packed away the plastic eggs and baskets this week; the candy is pretty much gone, but we're still talking about Easter here. Our colored-in pictures of palms, baskets of eggs, and a resurrected Jesus still grace our windows and fridge. We've talked a lot about God's power over death, and how eggs can be a symbol of new life, and the eternal life that Jesus gives us.

An added blessing this year was being joined by family. I mentioned to John as we prepared for their arrival that we hadn't had guests for Easter since Anna was a baby and John was deployed! My brother and sister-in-law and one of their daughters, Haley, made the trip up and we were thrilled they had agreed to let us keep Haley for a few days of her spring break following Easter Sunday.

We enjoyed a beautiful Sunday morning at Cadet Chapel with them. After a yummy lunch and a backyard egg hunt Uncle Ezra and Aunt Suzie had to hit the road, but the fun was just beginning for the girls.

We couldn't let a girl come so close to NYC and not show her some of its wonders. In one day we checked off Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, followed by the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building. It was an ambitious itinerary, and we were tuckered out that night, but it was all worth it. Thankfully, Joshua has gotten over his strange fear of elevators. Good thing, or we would've just paid a lot of money and stood in long lines to torture our poor little guy.

Anna was a little tired -- and sad she had to be picked up to enjoy the bird's eye view.

A Test Drive

2011-04-13T15:49:00.000-05:00

Remember back when I posed this question? Nope, still no new car here. Though we have done some shopping to see what's out there should we need to go for the new car, amazingly enough, we fit three car seats in the back of my car!! Thank you, Saab, for designing a cute, sporty car that is perfect for a family of five! I'm sure you Swedish geniuses had us in mind when you engineered this great vehicle. We'll see how things really go when baby comes along and completes the backseat trio. Lately, this is how we've been rolling around to test out logistics and practical matters. After a couple of months now, including some lengthier drives to and from NYC, so far, so good. But still....we'll see...

Here's the view of the backseat. Anna was not in the mood for having her photo taken that day, but she did find a great new purse holder, as the first photo shows. And yes, I did fix Anna's twisted strap before takeoff. Safety first!

Winter Is Past

2011-03-21T12:12:00.002-05:00

Even though it was snowing this morning, the hope of spring and newness of life are coming up around us. We are so thankful.

A Special (Unedited) Announcement from Anna and Joshua

2011-02-09T14:57:00.000-05:00

Thanks, friends, for all your tips! Here's the much-anticipated news!

Video on blogger?

2011-02-07T08:02:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! Does anyone know the secret to getting video to upload on Blogger? I have tried it with 2 browsers now and it just sits there for hours saying it's "uploading." But, it doesn't. You see, Anna and Joshua have a very special announcement that they want to make on here, and it's best done by this funny video I got of them. Help, please?

Who Keeps Shaking our Snow Globe?

2011-01-26T14:30:00.004-05:00

We're enjoying a very snowy winter here. We haven't seen our lawn since before Christmas. Below are some photos of what we do in the snow. Surprise! It's the same thing everyone else does: sledding, snow angels, snow people, write our names in it, etc. Anna is also learning to ski, but we repeatedly fail to bring the camera to the slope with us. It is really fun having a slope so close by, and great conditions for making good use of it. I've been pretty bummed about being on the bench for skiing this winter, but Baby is a worthwhile reason.

A picnic and a show in the living room when the weather outside's just too frightful.

Park/pool area transformed to sledding area

Inside to warm up (No idea why she put on a sundress!)

On the 12th Day of Christmas...

2011-01-05T14:34:00.004-05:00

I finally manage to put up some photos of Christmas! We had a great time celebrating Christmas here in NY and then again in VA on the "actual" 25th, and for about another whole week thereafter. More sweet memories made.

Gettin' ready

Virginia Christmas traditions kept alive

Cousins at every turn!

John Deere-ing in the snow

Granny's poor kitty is so very tolerant of our boy.

Room for more?

2010-12-08T15:46:00.003-05:00

Time to place your bets, friends. Can we fit another cutie in the backseat? Sometime around June 15, 2011 our faithful Saabi will put to the test in just how many little people it can hold. The best thing about going home for Thanksgiving this year was sharing the good news of another baby on the way! Now, will it fit? Some of us think it's just not going to work. As much as we've loved this car over the past years, it just seems too small for 3 little people. Others of us are convinced it will work, but we may need smaller car seats. Still others envy the grand vistas the larger vehicles offer from the backseat; the rest of us just don't care -- as long as there's a snack sometime in the near future. I won't say who's in what camp, but we know how toddlers (and mamas-to-be) love their snacks!

So, choose a side and leave your comment for us to ponder.

Go Daddy!

2010-11-04T14:02:00.003-05:00

On Monday we were able to join Daddy at work for his promotion ceremony. We were thankful he wasn't deployed for this one, so we could celebrate with him! I failed to pass our camera off to someone for the formal time, but the department office manager got a few. I have yet to receive those from her, so before something else exciting happens around here, and I forget to post this, here's a family photo we got afterwards. Better than nothing, right?

The whole thing was mercifully brief, which was a great thing for Joshua, who either was really mad that Daddy couldn't hold him at the time, or he just wanted to run around the room. So, above his fitful yelling, Daddy was lauded, pinned, oathed, and made a few short (he sensed our urgency) comments himself. Once happy in Daddy's arms, Joshua grinned as everyone passed to offer their handshakes and congrats. Anna was polite through her shy smiles.

We are very proud of Daddy for all he has accomplished in these 9 Army years. God has brought us through and taught us so much. We are so thankful for this time here now at West Point. We celebrated with dinner that evening at a new Thai place that opened here in our little town. Joshua wasn't much into that, either. I'm pretty sure all he had for dinner was Goldfish and milk. Oh, well.

Ya Gotta Love the Fall

2010-10-22T15:24:00.008-05:00

Finally..the promised photos.

The iconic pumpkin patch photos.

We've had some visitors (We LOVE visitors!):

The Cooks.

The Carlsons

My family (that's my lovely grandmother)

Joshua loves sunglasses. Unfortunately, we only have girly ones.

On rainy days we build a fort. All kinds of things end up in here: books, puzzles, dolls, tea sets, lunch.

On sunny Saturdays and random days when Daddy has no classes, we tour!

Last Mon. in Central Park

On Saturday we explored Cold Spring, a little town on the other side of the river. It was fun to see things "from the other side." We did a little shopping, finding some great bargains for next summer, and had lunch at a restaurant right by the railroad tracks so we could wave at Amtrak passengers as we ate.

Cargo trains use the tracks on the other side

That sums up our fall pretty good, so far. Oh, and yes, we do still have the skunk. AND, John and his friends have seen some other large animal sauntering around back there. John thinks it's a raccoon. Yes, we love visitors, but we prefer the human kind.

So much for that

2010-10-20T13:50:00.002-05:00

I had the camera out. Hooked up. It was ready to give up all the photos that have been hanging out on there for...hmm...weeks now. I clicked on the "New Post" button. Image uploads will be disabled for two hours due to maintenance at 5:00PM PDT Wednesday, Oct. 20th. That was the message that greeted me.

I guess I'm off the hook...for now. Sorry. At least I tried. There's no good excuse for neglecting a blog for over a month now -- no good excuse at all.

I'll try again tomorrow.

We have a skunk...maybe 10,000

2010-09-02T13:15:00.002-05:00

Some people get snakes in their backyard, some have moose giving birth, we get a skunk. I had seen it a couple of times after dark walking up our driveway going towards the backyard. I even had a near miss with it, when I thought I was locked out of the house and John and kids were on the way home. Thankfully (and oops), I had left one door open. Later, I was bringing out the recycling to the street when I saw it sneak around to the back. If I had had to stay outside waiting for them to arrive.....yikes! I left the recycling on the porch and stayed inside!

Anna has her own Pepe Le Pew sighting story. On Monday evening John and I were sitting on the deck, finishing dinner and chatting with one of John's fellow instructors who lives around the corner from us. Anna had been tooling around the backyard and she came over and told me that she had seen the skunk. I sort of dismissed it, as it hadn't gotten dark yet, and these guys are nocturnal.

A couple of nights later she was narrating her story again to me as she got ready for bed. This time I asked more questions. She explained to me what it looked like, stripes, tail and all. She told me there was a hole it went into behind our neighbor's detached garage where she often goes to hide, explore, or dig. I guess she's not the only one digging. She told me the hole was "like when you dig a hole at the beach, on the shore, so the water goes in and makes a pool." Finally, I asked her if she looked in the hole. "mm hmm." And I asked her how many skunks were in there. "Well, I saw the one go in the hole. So there was one....but maybe 10,000 in the hole?" Whoa! The story was pretty believable until that last estimation.

Yesterday we were out in the backyard after lunch. She asked if I wanted to see the hole. So we went over. Sure enough! There's a hole (like the kind you dig at the beach), and other signs around the hole that would lead one to believe it is inhabited. Yes, I even Googled "skunk scat". Gross, I know, but I had to gather my evidence. We concluded that, indeed, there is a skunk, and Anna probably did see one that evening. Problem is, this hole is technically on our neighbor's property, so we are at their mercy to do something about it. John talked to the man last night. We hope they find a solution soon! No one around here wants to get skunked! It's our newest phobia. I'll let you know how it goes. Meanwhile, if you're bored, Google, "how to get rid of a skunk." There are some pretty funny suggestions. And, I guess I'm not as confident in Anna's counting progress as I had been. If there are 10,000 skunks in there, we have big problems!

Happy Feet

2010-08-24T20:57:00.004-05:00

Anna had her first-ever dance class today. We signed her up for a general beginners' dance class on-post with CYS. After shopping for the appropriate attire and prancing around the house in it all last week, today was finally the day! The cool morning skies threatened rain, so we prepared for it well.

I couldn't get a photo of those cute feet in her adorable ballet slippers, as she was quick to change out of her puddle-splashers as soon as we arrived at class. I was so proud and so thankful for how she just went right into the class and followed along. Joshua and I could watch from a window, but he made it known that this is what he would have rather been doing...pickin' up stuff outside!

The class was a great success and we look forward to the next 9 Tuesday mornings. Her only critique was expressed to Daddy this evening: "We didn't really dance because we didn't even twirl!" In time, tiny dancer.

Class of 2014 Acceptance Day

2010-08-16T20:27:00.003-05:00

Class of 2028?

Exploring New Territory

2010-08-06T14:23:00.008-05:00

Here are photos from the last few weeks learning about our new surroundings. I thought we had plenty to do in DC, but the options are equally abundant here, too, and more geared to the out-of-doors, which is just fine by me!

Joshua examines the old-fashioned mail slot in our front door.

On a hike. Views looking down at the Hudson River/ West Point and Anna eating trail-fresh berries.

We took a short 4-day vacation last weekend to Newport, RI. Beautiful!

At Home in the Empire State

2010-07-12T20:54:00.002-05:00

We made it! It's all gone rather quickly. We came Thursday, stuff came Friday, Grammie on Sunday and Daddy started work today! With internet installed this evening I thought I'd let you all know we are here and doing well. First things first, you know.

Our house is great and we're so thankful it has worked out since we rented it sight-unseen! The neighborhood is friendly and there are fun things within walking distance. We're getting used to that natural feeling with no central A/C (it's an old, but charming, house.)

Grammie is here for a few days to help and we all love that. The little ones eat up the Grammietainment while Daddy and I work to unpack all our stuff.....and boy do we have stuff. I hadn't realized all that had accumulated over the past 9 years, and with this 6th move, it's been a good time to do a major sifting.

I have some photos I've taken of the young Childri getting used to their new surroundings and I'll post those when I locate the camera. In the meantime, we are enjoying the yard and all there is to explore.

Lots of Lasts

2010-07-01T13:10:00.003-05:00

We had our last church playgroup meeting today. Anna ate the last pickle for breakfast today (yes, breakfast). I'm planning to use up the flour in the cupboard to make pizza dough. We hosted our last small group meeting here Tue. evening. We've scheduled dinners with friends for "one last get-together." Nanny and Papa came up on Mon. for "one more trip" to Alexandria. This coming Sunday will be our last one at our dear church. Went to the library to return some books for the last time yesterday. The kind lady asked Anna if she was in the summer reading program. I had to respond, "Well, we're moving in about a week, so we'll check it out at our new library." The lady wanted to know where that would be. Anna said, "New York!"

We're all excited about our move to New York! A week from today this computer will be nestled in a box on a truck or a warehouse or wherever your stuff goes when they pack it up. Our cloud is moving again (see Numbers 9) and this time will settle over a small town near West Point. We weren't cool enough to get on-post housing, but we're thankful for what the Lord provided instead. A yard...finally...a yard! Think of the possibilities! Maybe Joshua will actually decide walking IS more fun than just climbing steps ALL day long.

Daddy is finishing his last days on Capitol Hill and is ready for the new job he will start in August teaching cadets everything he knows about American politics.

We've loved living here and all that we've been able to do and experience. A new home, a new town, a new community also brings excitement and curiosity for what the Lord will bring in a(nother) new place. Thankfully, the library is walkable from our new house, so a summer reading program will be a great way to get started!

Here are some recent photos celebrating some "lasts" with friends.

At a birthday party across the street.

We're going to miss these brothers.

A Girl and Her Purse

2010-06-15T14:29:00.004-05:00

Anna owns a Liz Claiborne "real" purse that was handed down to her by a sweet lady at our church. It has become a favorite possession and it goes out the door every time she does. The purse even made it to the tot lot the other day. As we were leaving and I was loading them onto the Joovy I said, "Got your purse?" "Yep, ready for anything!" was the reply. I just laughed out loud.

The purse is a mystery to her little friends at church, the closest of whom are little boys. One in particular is always asking her what she's got in that purse of hers. She'll reliably say, "Just everything I need."

And what does she "need"? Well, a Hello Kitty wallet with some old coupons in it, about 3 pairs of sunglasses, a phone, some keys, a few extra Joshua toys (because she's a good sister like that), and various flotsam. I pray that purse never gets left anywhere. Heaven forbid we be left unprepared for anything without everything we need!

Thanks, Aunt Mary!

2010-06-10T14:12:00.004-05:00

So even if you have a nice camera, that doesn't mean you automatically have a file full of awesome photos , ready for the impulsive blog-posting on a hot afternoon. No, you actually have to remember to bring your camera along on trips, take it out of its bag, turn it on, look for cute subjects, and of course, take the darn pictures! We know this in our heads, but have yet to practice it. Aunt Mary knows this. She is a true artist with a camera. She feels sorry for us and loves our children. We love Aunt Mary.

While stuck in traffic

2010-05-27T12:46:00.003-05:00

For some reason the already copious traffic here seems to multiply by about 5 as the days get warmer. This morning we were late to our church moms group and came upon the cleaning up of what looked like had been a minor accident. Anna is learning car names. She's good at identifying just about any Toyota (she likes that curly T), "snagger" wagons, Mini Coopers, Smart cars. Wishing I could enjoy being stuck in traffic as much as she does, instead of internally whining about how it was such a waste of my life, I suddenly heard her say, "Mama, I'm not gonna be 4 forever, but you can still love me forever." Sweet girl. Next time we get to sit in traffic I think I'll just enjoy the opportunity to look back and see their darling faces smiling back at me...and try not to cause more traffic incidents.

Does Anna need a green card?

2010-05-05T13:17:00.003-05:00

We had a treat lunch at McD's today in honor of the last day of Community Bible Study. We had the pleasure of sitting near the giant wall-mounted TV that had CNN doing their best to cover all the current happenings of the world. Thanks CNN, for your efforts, but I'd rather not spend this fun lunch with my little people explaining what an oil spill is, the immigration reform debate, why a man wanted to bomb NYC, and why it's unlawful for a man in TN to take advantage of the flooding by water skiing down a street. While the rest of the patrons were engaged in their burgers and news, I tried to redirect most of the questions, but this ironic exchange gave me a chuckle.

Anna: Mama, what's an immigrant?
Me: (Quietly, mindful of the fact that we were the only 3 blondies in the franchise) It's someone who comes to live in America, but who wasn't born here.
Anna: I'm an immigrant.
Me: No, you are an American. You were born here.
Anna: No, I was born in Georgia.

Some new photos

2010-04-21T16:47:00.004-05:00

Realizing we've deprived the world of all the cuteness around here for long enough (we get a lot of requests from family, at least), we finally got a new camera. Hooray! The cool thing is it also has HD video-producing capabilities in one handy piece of technology, so hopefully we'll have more of that on here too.

Here's the boy. 13 months now! Fun, adorable, has a twinkle in his eye he gets from Papa, and has his own creative way of getting around. I'll have to get that on video.

Some photos from a day trip down to Mary Washington on Sunday. I was feeling nostalgic; John's always up for going, so we went! What a strange feeling to see my little girl pedaling her little pink bike down Campus Walk a mere 9 years after my time there.

We were wondering...

2010-04-16T12:23:00.002-05:00

Do ducks have teeth? And do you think you could feed them hot dogs?

"I'm a tool!"

2010-04-08T12:44:00.002-05:00

The other day before nap time Anna and I were reading a child's condensed version of The Sermon on the Mount from the Jesus Storybook Bible ("The Singer"). Which is a wonderful version for anyone, I'd say. We read about how God cares for the birds and flowers, and they do not worry about where their provisions will come from:

Anna: I feed the birds!
Me: Yes, we feed the birds too. God uses us sometimes to take care of the birds.
Anna (gazing out the window at our empty bird-feeder): I'm a tool!

I was so thrilled that she got this concept! So we had a little conversation about how God can use us as His tools in this world to do His work for His glory. I am thankful for that sweet moment with her, and our daily prayer is that she will always be willing to be His tool in this world.

O N E...big birthday party

2010-03-25T14:16:00.006-05:00

Joshua celebrated his birthday 4 days after Anna, on March 18th. 2 birthdays in one week -- a whole new meaning to March Madness.

Family came for the weekend and some other special guests came for the party on Saturday.

He had just snatched a bite from Sister's cupcake

Presents!

Anna did this same thing on her 1st birthday!

We love these little folk!

F O U R

2010-03-15T14:15:00.003-05:00

Four tickets to see Frog and Toad on a Sunday afternoon

Four fingers to hold up

Four sweet treats made by a friend

Four letters in her name

I can't believe she's 4!

What we've learned this week

2010-02-26T23:50:00.003-05:00

1. Daddy and Anna have tummies of steel; Joshua and Mommy do not -- stomach bug: 2, Joshua & Mommy: still recovering

2. Pedialyte does NOT taste good, even if you put it in the favorite sippy cup and cut it with water.

3. Joshua suddenly has 2 teeth now, but it makes no difference when you're on the B.R.A.T. diet.

4. When Mommy is sick all night and day, Anna gets to watch "too much TV cuz Mommy was sleeping on the couch!" Oops.

5. Anna's baby dolls are twins, named John and Annalisa. They are 4 and 1 respectively. Yes, one is older, but they are still twins.

6. Mommy piles too many blankets on her tiny Anna for these cold, windy nights. Before bed tonight she said, "I need a sip of water, please. I get hot, like summer. It's like summer in our house."

7. Anna on weather: "When snow clouds are done blowing their snow out they go to the beach, and we don't know where they go after that."

8. Daddy doesn't have to go to work on Saturdays. (We're just getting back to this work-a-day world routine.) That makes Anna clap as she is tucked into her bed, under her too many blankets.

For everyone, but especially Suzanne

2010-02-17T14:21:00.005-05:00

I've managed to figure out how to get one of our cameras to make "better" photos.

I can't believe J-man will be 11 months old tomorrow! His first year has just blown by and he gets more fun each step of the way. He's finally crawling and he definitely has his own style. He does something with his arms that looks like the butterfly swim stroke and kicks himself along, his tummy not getting off the floor. Whatever works, kiddo! I wish I had video of it, but we still haven't gotten a new cord.

By request, here are some shots of Joshua and Anna, too. When they're both awake, it's very hard to separate them. They just adore each other and it's sweet to see them interact.

Oh, and it's also worth mentioning that, though still without teeth, this child can EAT, EAT, EAT! And when he's done, which can sometimes take an hour, he'll let you know by chucking his food on the floor. Those are times I wish we had a dog, but definitely the ONLY times I wish we had a dog. He's not one to keep you guessing if he needs something. Makes it easier, I guess. He's just a little bundle of sweetness and loves to give hugs and this week also started giving kisses, which aren't so lovely when you're picking him up from lunch and he shares his remnants with you, but still endearing.

We're still enjoying Winter's playground.

And bringing Winter inside to play.

(No, we did not eat that colored snow)

Come play with us, Suzanne!!

Snowmageddon

2010-02-08T09:54:00.005-05:00

We welcomed another 2 feet this past weekend. Anna and Joshua both impress us with their stamina in the cold air and swirling snow. Our snow shovel finally gave out after this snowy winter, but the neighbors are so kind to share theirs. We have the snow suiting down to a speedy process and the hot chocolate well stocked. The big guy (see last post) even gave us a cheezy name for the storm. What more do you need?

Silly names aside, here's the cute footage.

Waiting for it to warm up outside this morning!!

A Birthday, the Big Guys, and a Basketball Beatdown

2010-02-03T14:19:00.007-05:00

This past Saturday we celebrated Daddy's 31st birthday with a special cake with (LOTS) of sprinkles, a gift personally chosen by Anna -- a road Atlas. She LOVES maps. Besides the pancake breakfast, the cake, and the gift presentation, some snow falling, the highlight of the day for Anna was hanging out with one of the nice ladies from church for the afternoon. Daddy and I excused ourselves from the fun so we could attend the game between Georgetown and Duke. I had been worried this outing I had planned would be thwarted by snow, but Metro and our brave baby-sitter didn't let us down.

The weather didn't keep these guys from showing up either.

From the looks on their faces, I don't think they were cheering for the home team. Georgetown showed Duke what's what with a victory of 89-77. I would've gladly traded our dizzy-section seats for their baseline location. Either way, I'm glad we could pull it together to make it to at least one Georgetown sporting event in our time here, and really glad the event didn't disappoint. A very exciting game, indeed! Happy Birthday, best friend!

A Mid-Winter Retreat

2010-01-27T15:24:00.003-05:00

We took advantage of John's continued flexible (or lack of) schedule,and our friends' gracious hospitality and had a wonderful long weekend in rural PA with Lynn, Nate, and Abigail. Lynn's parents have a lovely, restful home near Amish country and it was such a nice time exploring (Anna loved the horses and ladies in dresses), resting, feeding birds, chatting, playing, and just being together. Photos are limited because our camera keeps doing this crazy thing with lines. Anybody have any ideas why? It's not the batteries. Could it be just time to retire the over-7-year-old camera? (Please say yes!)The good ones were taken with Lynn and Nate's camera.

(This is the crazy one with lines)

On the 12th Day of Christmas...

2010-01-05T14:00:00.003-05:00

I'm finally catching up around here. Anna called me a "super vacuum Mama!" Woo hoo!

A look back at the last couple weeks. I miss all the relaxing family time, watching cousins playing, yummy food, sledding, "hunting for bears" in the woods, enjoying 3 babies' first Christmases, and meeting our wonderful nephew/cousin, Isaac...

Joshua thought he was tasty.

Anna found him charming.

Anna's new way of seeing the world.

Joshua enjoyed Go Gran's lap.

And some others, mostly thanks to Aunt Mary's talent.

Looking forward to sharing our blessings and reading of yours in 2010!!

All is Merry & White

2009-12-19T14:17:00.002-05:00

Where Fun (and germs) Abound

2009-12-07T14:55:00.005-05:00

We're on our third episode of sickness in as many weeks. This week it's my turn. (cough, cough)

It started out the day before Thanksgiving with Joshua and "Turkey Fever," as we named it. High fevers, 2 trips to the ER, lots of Tylenol and Motrin, and some Zithromax didn't stop us from having fun. (Though maybe it should have?) Last week Anna showed off her gracious bravery as we had to apply ointment to pink eyes twice a day.

We're praying we all get well, and that Daddy doesn't succumb as he clickety-clacks away at final papers and exams this and next week. We did manage a lot of fun, which included a weekend visit from Grammie, and our first snowfall, in between manifestations of viral yuckiness. We hope the germs soon flee and the fun is here to stay.

Chilling the Turkey Fever -- sort of the opposite of thawing the turkey

Burning off Thanksgiving dinner

Grammie and her tribe

Love our cousins

We walked out in the cold, bought a tree, carried it home, and now Daddy's putting it in the basement. I'm so new at this Christmas thing!

A shoeoops!

Grammie and Anna at National Cathedral

My sweet little prince

She said it!!

2009-11-13T09:59:00.005-05:00

Mommy (after Daddy brought home flowers the other day): You have a kind and wonderful Daddy, Anna. Don't you want to marry a man just like Daddy when you get bigger?

Anna: No, because he probably won't do what I tell him to do, I bet.

~~~~~~~~~

Anna (pondering Joshua's recent baptism): Why does Pastor Colson know ALL about Jesus?

~~~~~~~~~

Anna (noticing the pre-election day, campaign signs along the road): What are all those blue signs for?

Mommy: Because soon people in Virginia are going to choose a new governor -- a new man to run Virginia.

Anna: Oh. Daddy?

~~~~~~~~~

Anna to Mommy: When you go to get your flu shot you have to be brave like Daddy and they pinch your arm just a little bit....but, they don't give lollipops!

~~~~~~~~~

Anna at dinner: When the farmers get the milk out of the mommy cow do they put it in a bucket for the baby cows to drink?

Mommy: No, they don't need a bucket. The baby cows just drink it from their mommies, like when... (WAIT, MARIE! Do NOT compare youself to a cow!) The cows have udders the baby cows drink it from.

Anna later that evening, playing with her farm and pointing to her anatomically correct plastic bull: Oh! Is that the mommy cow's unders?

So, there you go, folks! This is why my blog is always a far superior waste of your time than Facebook!

Set Apart for Him

2009-11-11T14:15:00.004-05:00

Sunday was a very special day for our family. Joshua was baptized at our church and we spent the whole day with dear friends.

Some pics from the service:

Joshua is our little "Ebenezer" (a symbol of God's faithfulness) from when Daddy spent 15 months in Afghanistan in 2007-08. When he left I began praying Psalm 126, and rested on it for the duration of the deployment. How neat that the Psalm reading on Sunday was Psalm 126!

When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad.

Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negeb!
Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!
He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Our prayer for Joshua David is that he will grow into this faith we are passing on to him, that he will one day make it his own, and that he will proclaim "that the hand of the LORD is mighty" and that he would "fear the LORD his God forever." (Joshua 4:24) We also pray that he would become a man after God's own heart as he grows up in this covenant community.

Anna takes the camera

2009-10-24T14:35:00.004-05:00

That's a plastic banana.

And I couldn't resist this one of them "trading places." I think Joshua's ready for his own place at the table.

Falling for Autumn

2009-10-16T19:50:00.003-05:00

Our first fire of the season is lit in the fireplace as I write this post. Ahh...cozy. It's been a wet, chilly last few days here; feeling more like January than October in VA. It's hampered our leaf peeping and bike riding, but has kept the pumpkin on the deck wet, "so it can grow," according to Anna.

We're still having fun, though. Last weekend we visited our local fire station's open house and on Sunday our friend Sara came for brunch and then helped us in the adoption of this year's aforementioned pumpkin.

This is the way we drive a firetruck. I even asked a fireman how they blow that crazy loud horn I often hear in the middle of the night as they zoom down the 6-lane "street" by our bedroom window. He showed me the petals on the floor they push with their feet to control the sirens and horns. How fun would that be!

Anna earned her own fireman's hat for demonstrating her low-crawling and dropping and rolling -- skills we hope she never has to use!

Joshua will be 7 months old on Sunday and I think he gets cuter and sweeter every day.

He's pretty passionate about eating...

and he doesn't mind hanging out in the "baby stocks" tasting and patting all the toys that surround him.

Anna vs. Sesame Street - A Philosophical Debate

2009-10-06T12:54:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I sat down with Anna on the sofa as some morning PBS Kids time was wrapping up. The concluding song of "Elmo's World," caused her to exclaim, "It's not Elmo's world, it's GOD'S world!"

I'm glad we've got that straight.

A Cousin is Born

2009-10-04T13:01:00.002-05:00

Anna and Joshua are so excited another cousin arrived on Friday afternoon. Isaac Michael Childress was born to Uncle Michael and Aunt Faith and we're so thankful everyone is doing well. As they say, everything is bigger in Texas. Isaac weighed in at 8 lbs., 6 oz., and is 21.75" long. We can't wait to meet him at Christmas when, if he's like his daddy, I'm sure he'll be an enthusiastic participant at Grammie's Christmas table -- even if only as a spectator this year.

At 3 1/2 and 6 Months

2009-09-29T12:17:00.003-05:00

Well, I blinked and our babies' half-birthdays came and went wherever summer and September went. We sure love these little people and are so thankful to see them grow, and proud of their accomplishments.
No one could've rightly prepared me for just how intense 3 can be, but it's been amazing to see all she's learning and figuring out:

We've noticed her sense of humor really developed over the summer. She comes up with some pretty funny jokes. For example, a couple months ago while driving to the beach, Joshua was letting us know he'd had enough of the stop and go traffic. Anna had had enough of being in the backseat with a noisy man-child and said, "Mommy, can we turn Joshua off?" Then burst into giggling.
She's getting really good at coloring in the lines.
She's learning to write some letters and her counting range gets higher all the time. I think she can reliably get through the 20s now.
We're so thankful and proud of how she's become a doting big sister. She adores her brother and he loves her, too. She really is a big help to me, and I thank the Lord for her servant's heart that is beginning to bud.
Anna is still our tiny tot, but she is a great eater, so I don't worry anymore about whether she's getting enough since I can now see how much is going in. Her favorites are noodles (just buttered, like Daddy), blueberries, strawberries, bell peppers, just about any bean, pizza, grapes, pears, carrots, rice, just about any soup and much more. She has Mommy's sweet tooth and will never turn down "chwakit" or ice cream.

I wouldn't say she has a wild imagination, but more of a practical one; it's there when she needs it. Last week she was wearing one of her pretty dresses and some really fun red shoes a friend recently passed down (thanks, Mandy!). She asked if we could go to church because I had told her they would be good church shoes, not playing outside or bike-riding shoes. Well, since it wasn't Sunday, I told her we couldn't go just then, but that she could wear the same dress and shoes the following Sunday. That waiting part just wasn't fun, so she said, "Well, we'll just have pretend church at our house then. " I actually got some really cute video of Anna and "pretend church," but we seem to have a sick video camera cable, so I can't get it to the computer. I'll consult with Daddy's expertise and maybe get it up soon.

The J-Man continues to grow like a little boy should, though still on the small side. At his recent check-up we were impressed at his height - 27.5" (75%), but not so much the weight - 14 lbs., 1 oz (2%). The doc suggested adding a little formula with the nursing. We're so thankful he's very healthy overall, and right on track developmentally; he's quick with a contagious smile, has "that twinkle in his eye" he gets from his Papa, and is just a sweet cuddle bug. Even as he recovers this week from his first cold, he's kept up his good napping habits and sweetness. If that good sleeping would just carry over into the nighttime hours, that would be great, but in due time, right? When he's not grabbing for anything in sight to explore with his mouth, he's probably enjoying his Exersaucer, swing, or practicing sitting up in front of my lap. We're almost there. We tried some rice cereal a couple weeks ago and I don't think it will be his favorite, but it goes down. Green beans, on the other hand, mostly end up on his bib as he scowls and looks at me pleadingly, as if to say, "must we continue with this?" Green beans probably weren't the kindest veggie to start with. Maybe some squash will be more appealing. Maybe it's pizza and noodles he wants. If he continues his trend of being long and skinny, we'll consider sending him to Kenya to start marathon training instead of kindergarten.

So thankful for my time with them. I confess to getting stuck in the illusion of permanence when the days just seem the same, so it helps me to ponder these milestones and the small, joyful, fleeting moments and remember I'll only pass through childhood with them once.

Mini Reunions

2009-09-23T13:26:00.004-05:00

One of our favorite things about the Army life is the people we meet along the way. God has blessed us with dear friends in each place we've lived. It's a privilege to be able to keep up with people through technology, but there's just nothing like being together. What is really fun now is to get our little ones together and see them interact. The last two weekends have been about just that! Nearly 2 weeks ago we were in Philadelphia to witness sweet Abigail's baptism. Last weekend, the Spahrs made the trek from Cincinnati to see the DC highlights. Our Annas had a BLAST. We also got to meet up with the Cooks for dinner one night. We love reunions and catching up with friends. Here's a reunion of some "minis" in Old Town. It's so neat how kids can just meet and instantly be friends.

The Annas toured the city like they owned the place. They loved the sights, but I think they mostly enjoyed the giggling. One would start and the other would follow, and as far as we could tell, it was usually about nothing. After a busy day on Saturday of the Smithsonians, the monuments, and a picnic lunch at the National Cathedral I asked them what their favorite thing was. They both agreed that the Color Wonder pages they colored that afternoon here at home were the best. I guess they just like being together.

1800 Miles Later

2009-09-08T19:34:00.005-05:00

We're back safe and sound and thankful for the great times we had and memories that were made.

Everyone is now catching up from all the visiting, playing with cousins, swimming in Grammie's pool, running in Nanny and Papa's big front yard, beaching at Tybee Island, shelling, boat-watching, more swimming, Anna's first throwing up experience (you can only be lucky for so long), seeing friends in NC and GA, watching a wedding in beautiful Savannah and dancing it up at the reception.

cuddling on the couch this morning

Olivia and Savannah loved seeing Joshua again

Did Daddy pick a giant mushroom? Nope, that's Joshua

It was fun to watch port-bound boats pass from our balcony. Anna said they looked like "moving cities," while Daddy would exclaim, "more trinkets from China!"

Getting back to normal life is a bit of a relief. Anna and I went out this morning for a haircut for her and some other errands. It felt good to be doing everyday things.

Daddy started back to classes today. Back to slaving (slacking?) away at Georgetown. It's another light schedule, but he will have lots of reading to do. Good thing he's such a quick study. Can't believe we've been here a year now.

Joshua is so very happy to be back in his own crib. He didn't sleep very well in the pack n play over the last 2 weeks. To celebrate his homecoming, he starting flipping onto his tummy yesterday. Now he gets stuck and mad if he flips in his sleep. He better figure out how to like sleeping on his tummy or just stay still. UPDATE: I wrote this last night, but during this morning's nap I realized little J-Man can flip both ways. We'll see which position he ends up liking to sleep in.

We all miss Grammie's cooking. Right, Uncle Will?

Endless Summer

2009-08-23T20:40:00.005-05:00

Continuing my trend of breezing through the blog and not writing much, here's a little of what we've been doing.

Had a wonderful time with the Carlsons last weekend! Thanks for coming, guys!

With Daddy's continued time off, and our perpetual wanderlust, we escaped the oppressive DC heat for some cooler temps and bucolic scenery in another DC -- Deep Creek, Maryland, that is. After much searching, we landed our steal of of a deal that gave us days in the 70s and nights in the 60s...refreshing! A no mosquitoes, picnics, hikes, splashing in the lake and playing in the sand, leaving the windows open at night so you can hear the bugs kind of place; a little of Heaven on earth.

Joshua slept through his first hike

The water was deemed "too chillwy" for our wisp of a girl, so we buried feet.

And Joshua crashed in his beach tent.

A tree hatched an Anna

Travels continue tomorrow. Going home to see family this week, breezing through Fayetteville next weekend, then on to Savannah, GA for more beach time and concluding it all with a wedding Labor Day weekend. Do we not know when to stop or what?!

See y'all later!

summer, summer, summer

2009-08-13T10:48:00.004-05:00

Has it been that long already? We've been busy. Daddy's internship finished up about 2 weeks ago and his summer course ended last week. Right now we're on a long break until the fall semester starts up again the week after Labor Day. We're so very, very spoiled with having Daddy around. Day trips this week have included some shopping downtown at H&M, some swimming at Ft. Myer, a yummy Greek dinner with our neighbors in DuPont Circle, playing over at Camp Cookie, a birthday dinner for Mr. Huber, and other various outings in this steamy DC August.

We had some great-grandparent fun last week. I'm so thankful Anna and Joshua get to experience all 4 of my sweet grandparents. My Go Gran is a very proud Semper Fi Marine and so we took them to the Marine Corps Museum at Quantico. Anna enjoyed learning about how her Go Gran also had to go far away to keep away the bad guys, and did well as we took in the exhibits of the "Marine soldiers" as she called them.

Last Friday evening we enjoyed some tasty Indian food for dinner in the Eastern Market area, then walked down a few blocks to the Marine Barracks and happened upon their Sunset Parade. There was space available, so we grabbed a seat and were entertained by the President's Own Marine band. The drill team performed next, but as night settled in, Anna became a little bored of the bayonet bedecked rifle-tossing, and poor Joshua had had about all he could take.

To continue our branching out (get it?), we checked out the Navy Museum yesterday at Navy Yard and explored the battleship USS Brady. Anna loved this big boat and thought it was fun climbing the steep ladder-steps to check out the different rooms. It was a great opportunity to tell her about how her Great-Grandaddy had sailed on a similar ship her Go Gran was a Marine soldier.

More visitors coming today! Nate, Lynn, and Abigail will join us later for the long weekend. We'll see what adventures await!

To everyone else, come visit! There's so much to do around here.

4 Months of the J-Man

2009-07-26T13:16:00.003-05:00

Joshua doesn't get a lot of face time on the blog, so this one's for him. He's usually content to be in the background while Big Sister takes the limelight. All checked out fine at his 4-month appointment this past Tuesday. He's 12 lbs., 14 oz and 24.75 inches. Just like with Anna, we're not setting any records in the weight categories, but I don't think Anna weighed 12 lbs till she was like 9 months, no kidding! I guess they're waiting to set their records as Olympic track athletes.

We are really enjoying this little buddy. He's so very sweet and his favorite toys are his hands, toes, or a burp cloth. His newest trick is blowing raspberries. He takes great naps during the day, but still likes to get up once or twice at night to hang out with Mommy. It's getting more and more fun to see him interact with Anna. She's always up for trying to make him giggle or smile. This is starting to pay off for me as I try to cook dinner in the evenings.

I don't know that I can say whom he most closely resembles. What do you think? Nanny brought a photo of me as a baby when she came up and I saw a little of Joshua in that chubby face. However, while looking at a photo of Daddy as a baby Papa was convinced that was a little Joshua. I don't know. He certainly has my blue eyes and blonde hair. Either way, it's such a gift to watch them grow and develop into the little people God created them to be.

He joined us for breakfast the other day in his purple throne.

At the Beach with Anna

2009-07-22T15:24:00.004-05:00

I think you can see that we had a great time in the sun, sand, surf, and constant party that is Ocean City. Our fun-lovin' friends Angela, Huber, and their sweet Ruthie joined us. You may notice Anna's beat up knees and elbow. Those are the wounds she got trying to keep up with Daddy as he relived these childhood traditions:

Donning proper headgear for a dinner at Phillips

Relaxing by the pool

Tasty Kohr's frozen custard

Posing on the Boardwalk

On the pier with Ruthie

In Between Adventures

2009-07-16T13:01:00.004-05:00

It's been some busy times around here, but really fun, and we've been able to see some of our favorite people!

Last Friday Nanny and Papa came up for the weekend! What fun we had buzzing around DC, playing Candyland, eating yummy food they brought us, and just enjoying their company.

Yesterday we took a day trip up to Philadelphia to meet Uncle Michael and Aunt Faith who were there for a few days. Uncle Michael received a major award for some work he's done as a Rear-D commander at Fort Hood. We enjoyed a Geno's Philly cheese steak lunch with them and they let us lounge by their hotel pool for a bit before they had to get fancy for their evening ceremony. We made the most of being in Philly and took the opportunity to pop in on the Carlsons for dinner. If you ever pop in on the Carlsons for dinner, be ready for a feast! They gave us a wonderful meal and of course, we had some great times catching up and playing with beautiful Abigail. I wish I had photos to prove all this. Believe me. It really happened. My tired babies can attest to it -- but it was all VERY worth it!

Today we're catching up on rest, laundry, and getting organized for leaving for the beach tomorrow! Ocean City, MD awaits us for a 4-day weekend. We'll see what adventures lie in store for us there and will give a full report (and hopefully photos!) when we return.

I'm embarking on my own adventure as well. A new decade begins today and I'm so thankful to look back over the many rich blessings the Lord has given me over these 30 years, and I look forward to what He'll continue to do in my life. What an abundant Life He gives!

Celebrating a Capitol 4th

2009-07-07T08:36:00.002-05:00

What a busy weekend! What fun was had!

On Friday, some old friends came over. John's former sponsor from West Point and their 4 boys enjoyed a cook-out and playing with "girl toys" for the evening. Anna was happy to share her world of pink with the boys, who were equally enthusiastic to try out the foreign items - strollers, dolls, Polly Pockets, jewelry; they need a sister.

On Saturday we went downtown for the National 4th of July parade. Honestly, we were mostly nonplussed. I was expecting more - at least some floats or something. But it turned out to mostly be high school marching bands from around our nation, which is fun, but not as exciting as we'd thought.

Don't they look alike?

Anna danced a jig as a loudspeaker played "Johnny Be Good."

We spent the afternoon at home and then in the evening went to see the fireworks. It was tempting to go back to the National Mall area to watch the deal up close, but we figured it would be wiser to just stay on the VA side, and not get caught up in traffic, which would probably mean getting back way too late for a little girl's bedtime. Thankfully, Joshua still sleeps just about anywhere and through just about anything. He snoozed in his stroller the whole time. We chose a plot of grass just underneath the Air Force Memorial in Arlington and our pastor and his family joined us. Anna was happy to share the experience with her friends, Sim and Ware. The view was perfect and the Air Force band put on a great performance.

The next morning we packed up and headed out to the country! It was a chilly and rather dreary day, but it didn't stop us. We met Amy and her family at their lovely home in the mountains. We enjoyed visiting the chickens, checking out the gardens, riding the Mule (an ATV, not a real mule) around in the woods, eating some yummy food, and catching up with our friends. John and Anna even braved the cool temperatures and had a dip in the pool before bedtime. Yesterday was much lovelier and we had a great morning swimming together.

Amy made sure Anna was ready for the farm with hat and walking stick.

A Brief, Photographic Review

2009-06-22T13:31:00.003-05:00

A short, visual guide to what we've been doing lately.

Anna's got the A's down. Now if she can get the N's, she'll be just fine. The last name will come later.

The Humphreys came through for a night on their way further north. It was so fun to catch up with them. Anna had her first sleepover with the girls in her room and the next day we all went to the zoo.

Joshua celebrated 3 months of life last Thursday with plenty of grins, giggles and coos. I do believe he's the cutest little boy I've ever seen.

Grammie came over the weekend and that is always a special time! She sent us out on Friday night so we could celebrate our anniversary. We took in the Bolshoi ballet at the Kennedy Center. What a treat!

After Anna presented Daddy with his specially-chosen gift (sidewalk chalk), we enjoyed Father's Day brunch yesterday at the beautiful O club at Belvoir. Sweet memories.

Whoa, Baby!

2009-06-10T07:48:00.004-05:00

It's the year of babies!! We know so many folks who've had or are expecting babies. I guess it's that time of our life. We've even had one ourselves recently! This past weekend we gathered in VA Beach with my MWC girls to celebrate some more babies. MWC should offer a degree in babies because each girl from our gang fills her days with something related to babies and children.

Here we are, minus our favorite pediatrician, who was busy taking care of...babies. In the year since our last gathering we've added 3 babies, and 2 more are due very soon! We'll soon be outnumbered by our children.

Look at that pile of blessings!

Anna's Aspirations

2009-06-03T13:22:00.002-05:00

She's always thinking about what she'll be when she grows up. It seems that every time we go on a special outing, she wants to do something relating to that. For example, after a day at the National Zoo a few weeks ago, Anna decided she wants to teach about animals some day. Included in the list are also: be a doctor like Amy Brown, play football, fly airplanes (and make sure everyone wears their seatbelt), and yesterday at lunch the UPS truck passed down our street. She said:

"I want to drive the big brown truck when I grow up and be the mail man. Except my big brown truck will be PINK!"

Uncle Will, if you see a pink, big brown truck, will you save it for Anna? Thanks!

The 5.2 Project

2009-06-01T13:03:00.002-05:00

A long time ago, in a place far, far away, a boy offered Jesus 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. Jesus took this small quantity and fed a multitude.

Check out the button to the right. Know what you know. Share what you know. Live what you know. You never know what God will do through you.

Welcome, Summer!

2009-05-21T13:02:00.003-05:00

The season of fun officially starts this weekend, but we kicked summer off a week early last weekend with our trip to Roanoke. Joshua proved himself an enthusiastic traveler - always a good Childress quality. He slept whenever the wheels were turning and took our busy agenda in stride.

Cousin Hannah offers to "hold him forever."

Anna was thrilled to reunite with grandparents, great-grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. Joshua got to meet everyone he'd been told about, and was a popular guest as the only boy at Aunt Faith's baby shower!

I think we've recovered from the trip and Anna can't stop talking about all those fish she caught with Papa, Daddy, Haley, and Uncle Ezra on Sunday. I wish I had photos, but they're being held hostage on Papa's camera.

We anticipate that the next few months will hold more adventures. Daddy is finished with school for now and is spending his time solving the issue of veterans' homelessness. (See www.endhomelessness.org) He'll also be taking an evening course starting in July.

We've batted ideas around on how to spend our free time. John's proposal of a trip to India was countered with the suggestion that we wait until Baby Joshua is more adequately inoculated, like when he's 12 and Big Sister's 15, maybe. He agreed. I think we'll do some less exotic long-weekend trips here and there. Anna has already cast her vote for locations that involve sand and saltwater. She still remembers her trip to "Why-hee" last year and now thinks that every beach trip involves an airplane. While it's nothing like glorious Hawaii, we reminded her that another ocean isn't too far from Virginia. In the meantime, we're doing a little urban gardening, blowing bubbles, playing at the park with friends, taking field trips around DC, riding bikes; and Joshua is searching for his thumb.

Hoping for a good crop of strawberries and grape tomatoes.

Real men have their diapers changed on purple changing pads.

Yesterday

2009-05-20T08:23:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I was tired. By the evening I had baby poop on my sleeve and spit-up on my shoulder. But I was so thankful to remember the wonderful, fun weekend we had with family, and prayed for a restful night.

Today is a new day and His mercies are new! Joshua only had me up once during the night and was giving lots of smiles this morning.

This morning HE reminded me that HE stoops down to make me great. Amazing. (Psalm 18:35)

Little Buddy's growing

2009-05-15T13:54:00.002-05:00

Today was Joshua's 8-week check-up.

Weight: 10 lbs., 10 oz. (25th percentile)
Height: 22.5" (near the 50th percentile)

Healthy as can be! The nurses that gave him his shots were going gaga over his beautiful blue eyes and how much he "looks like Mama." At just 8 weeks, I think it is striking how much his features resemble mine. Sorry I don't have a good photo to illustrate, but hopefully we'll have some after this weekend. He's taking his first road trip today! We're leaving later this afternoon for Roanoke and then on Sunday heading to Charlotte for a baby shower for Auntie Faith who will be giving us another BOY cousin in September! We're so very excited. And Joshua can't wait to meet all his cousins, aunts, uncles, and great-grandparents this weekend. He's currently sleeping off the shots and resting up for the fun times ahead. He'll charm them all with those blue eyes and sweet grins.

Meanwhile, Anna is also resting up for the trip. She's been chattering away about her first fishing trip, being on the farm, and getting to see grandparents and cousins. She's even geared up with new sneakers for the occasion. Does the excitement ever end?!

Hanging out with Joshua

2009-05-05T13:18:00.002-05:00

I got some video of Joshua and Anna yesterday morning. This is where Joshua finds himself quite often. Good thing he usually likes it. Watching the entire video may make one dizzy, but aren't they so cute?

And wouldn't you know, he gave a big smile right after the camera was turned off.

"I got WORMS!!"

2009-04-29T19:08:00.004-05:00

Don't worry. No one here is hosting a parasite. That's what Anna shouted yesterday evening when we were in CVS. She's had $3 that Granny Jeanne gave her in her Easter card and it's been burning a hole in her pocket. We've been telling her she could pick out something at a store soon. Last night after dinner, we decided to enjoy the lovely spring evening and take a walk around Old Town. We took her to CVS to make her very first purchase. Daddy was supervising the shopping while I was strolling a fussy Joshua around the store. I came out of the hair product aisle, nearly colliding with Anna who was running towards me flashing a bag of gummy worms and exclaiming, "I got WORMS!" I burst out laughing. I couldn't help it. Several other customers heard the "double entendre" and grinned as well. I also couldn't help but be reminded of the same line from Dumb and Dumber. Oh, dear. That's embarrassing to admit. She had also picked out a bottle of bubbles and proudly marched up to the cashier to make the transaction. I wished I had a camera. She was beaming as she handed over her cash. I then realized maybe we should get her a piggy bank and teach her the concepts of saving and tithing. For now, she's very happy with her worms and bubbles.

Baby Brudder is 6 weeks old today and doing well. And yes, he's definitely smiling now, and making those cute baby sounds. He's so sweet and cuddly! I promise some new photos will appear soon! Maybe I'll even manage to capture one of his adorable smiles.

He might have smiled...

2009-04-16T14:56:00.003-05:00

This afternoon Joshua and I were hanging out on the sofa. He had just eaten and was lying on the Boppy pillow. We were chatting. He gave me a couple of cute coos and he was looking into my eyes while I talked to him and made faces and....I think he smiled. It was one of those baby faces where they open their mouths and it sort of looks like they smile when they close it and then there was a little grin. I don't know. It might have been just a random movement, but Anna smiled at 4 weeks, so it's not impossible. He's definitely getting more fun as he stays awake longer and focuses his pretty blue eyes on things. Unfortunately, some of those longer wake times happen at night, too. When did your babies start smiling?

Here are some photos from the past week or so.

His first real bath. Not a fan...yet.

Anna and her Easter basket.

I think Big Sister will teach him to smile!

Going on 3 Weeks...

2009-04-07T12:30:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe Joshua will be 3 weeks old tomorrow. It has all seemed like a blur, but a very sweet, sometimes stressful, often sleepless blur. We've been blessed to have eased into our transition with Nanny here for 2 weeks, and then Grammie here for a few days. Plus, John's long weekends, which have totally spoiled me, have also been even more appreciated. Today is my first day as a sola mommy of 2! It's going....um..okay.

Both of my children (I love that I can say plural "children" now!!) are doing well. Joshua has surpassed his birth weight and grown an inch already! Anna loves being a big sister and is so helpful to fetch me things as needed. I'd say overall she's adjusting well. Of course, she has her typical off-times, which we all do, and sometimes they're a lot louder, a little longer and more intense. But, by God's grace, we'll make it. She hasn't asked me to take the baby back yet, as I've heard other older siblings say. She may yet, but in fact, at lunch today she was asking me when God will give us another baby....umm....not my first thought as I stumble out of bed to feed Joshua in the middle of the night.

Anyway, here are some photos. We've had so many fun visitors already! Joshua has also already enjoyed his first metro ride into DC for the Cherry Blossom Parade this past Saturday. He's made a cameo appearance at church and the mall, as well as our church play group. I believe he slept through all of these events.

I promise...I don't feel as badly as I look in these pics; just a little tired. It's getting better.

The Carlsons came by for a quick visit while they were in the area with family. Abigail is 100% adorable!

Meeting Miss Sara, Mommy's roomie from a "few" years ago. :-)

Anna perfected her parade wave at the Cherry Blossom Parade.

A proud Papa John!

Joshua meets Grammie.

Lots of Polly Pockets fashion shows with Nanny.

Doing the dishes with Papa.

Our March Babies

2009-03-24T16:14:00.006-05:00

3 years ago on March 14th, we welcomed our precious Anna Rachel. The big girl is now 3..and a big sister! Here she is on her special day, showing off her new pink bike.

So proud to be 3! Thank you Golbys for the adorable "yainbow" shirt! It's been a hit.

4 days after her birthday, Anna got to welcome her long-awaited "baby brudder," Joshua David, who was finally named as he was making his arrival. Nothing like being forced to make a decision! He weighed 6 lbs., 15 oz. and stretched out to 20". He certainly surprised us coming a week before his due date. We are enjoying this sweet blessing in our family. He really likes eatin', snugglin', and sleepin'. He does NOT like having his diaper changed.

I have been so encouraged by your phone calls, emails, and Facebook messages. Thank you for rejoicing with us. Thank you also for your prayers. God provided a safe, healthy arrival and he is thriving. We would welcome your continued prayers as we make this adjustment. It's hard at times, but it's great to have him here and not be pregnant anymore. I will miss Anna's sweet hugs and kisses to my tummy, though. I got this photo last week, the day before Joshua decided to make his way into the world. Though I couldn't always see my feet, I often saw this darling face hugging the basketball.

Spring Break 09

2009-03-17T13:48:00.007-05:00

Daddy biked off to school again this morning, so spring break is over. We had a great week with him and got to do some fun outings together.

Last Monday was windy, but slightly warm, so we packed a picnic lunch and headed out to Great Falls Park in McLean. This is a point where the Potomac (or 'Tomac, as Anna calls it) River "builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks..." It's an impressive scene and we also enjoyed tossing balls and eating our lunch at the adjacent park. We hope to go back when the weather is warmer.

On Tuesdays the Museum of Natural History offers free tours of their live butterfly exhibit. It's an indoor bubble you walk through with conditions warm and bright for butterflies to kick it free range fashion. We forgot the camera, or we'd have some lovely shots of the colorful flowers with the inhabitants circling around. The disappointing part was that timid little Anna didn't find this adventure as intriguing as we did. She was fine till a butterfly fluttered a little too close, then Daddy was required to carry her through the rest. Glad we didn't pay the usual entrance fee of $6.

We went back to the mammals exhibit she had seen with her cousins because she likes the bunnies. We wandered into the room where a catchy video was playing about mammals; specifically how we are all related and came from one mammal. Daddy gave the nod that we should head on. We explained to confused Anna that the show was saying things that the Bible says aren't true. She inquired about why everyone else was watching and seemed baffled by the fact that not everyone knows what the Bible says about God creating the world. Her faith is so beautiful right now, and we pray we are laying a strong foundation for when she'll have to face more of these challenges.

Wednesday and the rest of the week were consumed with more of our usual routine, and colds for poor Anna and Daddy. We went to CBS, had a couple of Dr. visits for me (all's well), and made some preparations for the big 3rd birthday we celebrated on Saturday. That deserves its own posting, so I'll chat about that soon.

In Like a Lion (or a Polar Bear)

2009-03-03T15:57:00.002-05:00

March has arrived and it brought us a decent snowfall Sunday night and yesterday. Luckily, this time the snow was on a Monday, which meant Daddy was around to frolic around in it with us. He's way more fun than I am at this point (37 weeks today). When they weren't attempting a snowman, or shoveling the driveway,Daddy was showing Anna how to make snow angels. We don't have a sled, but that didn't stop them from sliding downhill anyway. That didn't work very well. It was a fun day with a nice change of scenery!

Yesterday after her nap we went out back and made snow people on the deck. The snow was still pretty dry, but I found some wetter snow on the corner of the deck that made nice, round snow bodies. So the "snow mommy" looks like a proper snowman and the mound ("snow baby") just looks like some sort of snow pile with eyes. I promise, no Nandina bushes were harmed for this activity. They all willingly gave up their berries and branches for the cause.

Next week is Daddy's spring break, and we're excited the forecast is calling for some warmer weather! In the past, the Childresses would've used a free week to go somewhere interesting, but with the baby coming soon we'll have to stay local. That's alright, though. There's still lots we haven't seen yet around here, and we'll try to get some good blog material in next week. Who knows? Maybe there will be a baby to talk about!

She Knows What She Wants

2009-02-24T14:59:00.003-05:00

Annna's very excited about her upcoming birthday on March 14th. Yesterday we were talking about it and this was our exchange:

Anna: When it's my birthday you have to give me something.
Me: Oh, really? And what do you think that should be?
Anna: (With exuberant glee and arms in the air) A yainbow!!!
Me: A rainbow?! Like one up in the sky?
Anna: Yeah!
Me: We'll submit the request and see what happens.

March in VA can be persnickety. It could snow, it could be sunny and pleasant. I don't know that I've ever seen a rainbow in March, but we'll see.

Sleeping Through Church

2009-02-15T16:46:00.003-05:00

We've had a GREAT weekend! Anna had been so excited for Valentine's Day and woke up with lots of Valentine hugs and kisses to give out. She enjoyed helping Daddy bring me some gifts (tulips and 2 Goudge books, Aunt Faithie!) We called both Nanny and Grammie to share some love, had a few conversation hearts after breakfast and then we waited for our inbound visitors, Uncle Will, Aunt Mary, and the cousins, to arrive. Once they got here, and everyone warmed up to each other again, we had a quick lunch before heading to DC to check out the Museum of Natural History. I think everyone's favorite was the mammals display. We drove past the White House so everyone could see where Old-bama (as 5-year-old Hannah calls him) lives. We ended the outing with dinner in Old Town at Bertucci's - a yummy, and very family-friendly Italian place. What a great Valentine's Day!

This morning we had a yummy breakfast and once again rounded up everyone for more DC touring. This time we chose the Air and Space Museum. Jacob and Samuel, Uncle Will and Daddy seemed to be more into the displays. The little girls were just happy to be together and held hands the entire time, Hannah offering some expert knowledge here and there. They did let go a couple of times if an exhibit offered buttons to push.

They left this afternoon and Anna went down for a nap. We figured we had plenty of time before our 4:30 church service for her to rest up. Daddy went to get her at 3:50 and she was completely beside herself - an emotional heap of uncontrollable mess. He just left her in bed and told me to try again in a while, even if we would be late, and he went on. Well, it's now 5 pm. I went to check on her at 4:30 and she didn't even stir when I opened the door and walked over to her bed. From the earlier sickness this week and so much fun the past 2 days, I didn't have the heart to wake her up.

I guess a girl can only take so much, but it's sure all been worth it!! (Well, except the sickies) Thank you, dear family, for such a great visit! Come again soon!!

Word of the Day

2009-02-10T14:31:00.002-05:00

High fevers, cough, and tummy pain sent us to the doctor this morning, who determined we're dealing with a virus. We stopped at Dunkin Donuts on the way home for a treat. Once home she said:

"Donuts help you when you be sick. Donuts are good medicine."

If she becomes a doctor someday, she'll be everyone's favorite!

Pumped Up for 30!

2009-02-01T21:42:00.006-05:00

Friday was Daddy's 30th birthday! We began the day with breakfast and then he (I mean, Anna) opened his presents. We spent the morning running some errands and got Anna back for an earlier nap so she could be ready for an afternoon of action.

How many 30-year olds can get away with having their birthday at Pump It Up? Anna and Daddy had a blast at the "inflatable party zone," jumping, sliding, climbing, and more sliding with other kids who averaged about 1/6 of Daddy's age. I stayed on the sidelines watching and laughing (ref. the "beached whale" issue in previous post). I did, however, successfully complete an obstacle course with Anna. I'm sure I was a sight.

After expending lots of energy, everyone was escorted into the party room for cake and presents. Anna had been looking forward to the singing of "Happy Brithday," because, according to her, "I'm pwetty good at that song." I will say, though, that this particular party, the presents, cake and singing, weren't for Daddy, but for our little friend, 5-year old Marcus whose birthday party happened to occur on Daddy's birthday. But it's pretty cool when you can enter a new decade, the "prime of a man's life," so says Daddy, with a chaotic hour and a half of sliding, jumping, climbing, more sliding, cake, and presents with 15 pre-schoolers. We had a great time, and followed it up by spending the evening at Marcus's house with his family and grandparents, whom we go a long way back with, and some other friends. Good times.

Yesterday we celebrated in a more adult fashion. We had some friends over last night for cake and conversation. I'm sure I laughed harder at Pump It Up, but it's great to be able to enjoy the spectrum of birthday parties in one weekend. It was a special treat to have our friend Chris J., here in DC for work, spend some time with us yesterday touring museums and enjoying cake with us. Anna was also thrilled to host Mr. Huber, Miss Angela, and their sweet baby, Ruth.

Happy Birthday, Daddy! We love you! We hope you had a wonderful time and we are so thankful for another new year with you!

A Snow Day

2009-01-27T14:18:00.004-05:00

Enduring the last couple months of cold days finally earned us some significant snow. A few inches had fallen by mid-morning, so after breakfast and sending Daddy off to school (Georgetown, assured of their importance, doesn't give snow days), we bundled up and headed outside. This was Anna's first time actually playing with snow. She'd seen it as a baby at Nanny and Papa's, but was pretty passive about it then. This time, she was pumped! Never one to risk life or limb, she wasn't too rambunctious, but had a great time sweeping it, catching flakes on her tongue, kicking it, digging in it, and knocking it off trees. It was a very powdery consistency (the kind we love on the slopes!), so it didn't make good snowballs. I considered teaching her how to make snow angels, but at 32 weeks now, I feared the beached whale effect, and we took a walk instead.

Imitating me with the camera:

Catching a taste. (I doubt the skies over DC produce the cleanest snowflakes!)

We wouldn't want the car to be cold.

We lasted the good part of an hour outside before a mitten malfunction, cold toes, and snow down the boots and sleeves began to take their toll and sent us inside for warmth.

Enjoying her après-snow hot-chocolate.

I don't know how long this snow will last, but we'll enjoy it while we can. Hope you're having fun wherever you are, too!

Anna's Namesake

2009-01-17T19:39:00.004-05:00

Can't even remember the last time I posted video on here, but we wanted to share something we're excited about. For several months now, we've been reading Luke 2:36-38 every night before bed to Anna, because it mentions her namesake - the woman who was waiting for the birth of Jesus. So, here she is, sharing what she's learned with the world. (Little minds are amazing!) We pray these words will go to her heart, and she'll desire to be like that Anna.

Funniest things I've heard today...

2009-01-08T14:49:00.003-05:00

We walked out of the hair salon with Anna freshly coiffed into a blowing snow shower. She exclaimed, "It's snowing on my yollipop!"

As I type, she's calling me from her bed to let me know she's ready to be up from her nap. John often calls me by my first name, Cynthia. Anna's trying out her version to beckon me to her room: "Cyntoowaa! Cyntoowaa!"

Keeping the Joy of Christmas

2009-01-04T21:36:00.004-05:00

We're back home now and settling back into life. Our time with family was wonderful and many great memories were made. We're excited about 2009 and are looking forward to: the arrival of the boy (we only know his last name), turning 30, getting John three-quarters to his Master's, and seeing what Anna will be like at 3! Meanwhile, we have a few more days till the semester begins again and it's nice to have some more time to relax. As John contemplates how much we could profit for our 2 guest rooms for the Inauguration, Anna enjoys mommying her 2 new baby dolls and pushing them around in their stroller. She's also loving the barn Nanny and Papa got her. It's a great set complete with animals, a tractor, people, even a hay baler and hay bales.

I guess Christmas is over, but isn't it wonderful how we can walk on in the joy of Christmas, "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." 2 Cor. 8:9

I don't have many photos to share. This year we got a lot of video because it's so fun to watch Anna in action, interacting and talking about what she's doing. I'll just share some of my favorite memories - simple gifts in and of themselves:

Making the gingerbread house at Grammie's with the cousins. Always a fun tradition!

Grammie reading Christmas stories to her 4 little ones spread about her in sleeping bags on the living room floor.

Harvesting the fresh cedar with Papa in the back field, loading it in the truck and setting it up at Nanny and Papa's house, then decking it with the same ornaments I put on the tree as a kid.

Star-gazing with Anna on the clear, cold Christmas night in the country. The stars were in abundance! It looked like someone had thrown tons and tons of glitter up in the sky and it got stuck. Anna was reaching up for them and said to Nanny, "Can I have them?"

Visiting the Transportation Museum with Granny Jeanne, Go Gran, and Nanny. Anna loved the trains, the indoor set and the big, real ones outside.

What are your favorite memories?

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T08:32:00.002-05:00

After a merry Christmas time in Roanoke with the family, this first day of 2009 finds us in Raleigh, NC visiting meeting sweet Lily! She's a darling. We'll go home tomorrow, so we'll follow up later with more festive details. We pray you all have a wonderful and blessed 2009!

It's A Jolly Holiday with Grammie...

2008-12-08T10:31:00.009-05:00

...no wonder that it's Grammie that we love!

They could cast Grammie as the next Mary Poppins, upgrading her from a flying umbrella to a classy Monte Carlo. She arrived last Friday for the weekend with a bag full of fun, and I'm just now getting around to posting about it because someone in this household is in the midst of final exams/papers and I haven't had much computer time.

Grammie braved the blustery cold with us to see the National Christmas Tree on Friday and some plaid-clad, pipe and drum Scottish heritage parades in Old Town on Saturday - it warmed our McCallister/Keith blood to see our banners pass by. Anna loved it all, but was sad when her feet were numbed from the cold. We've since solved that by purchasing some warm snow boots, which I realized a few days ago look exactly like Napolean Dynamite moon boots. Even John pointed that out. They're blue and everything (or were his black?,) because they didn't have a size 7 in pink and my practical mind figured Little Brother will use them one day, too. I'll have to get a photo of her in them. Could've gotten one yesterday, but all she had on were her panties and moon boots. Pretty funny, but not appropriate for the blog.

Anyway...back to last weekend... I'll just post the photos that express the glee that resulted from Grammie's visit. An early Christmas treat for John and me was a nice outing all to ourselves! We had a yummy dinner at Clyde's in DC and then went to see Dickens' A Christmas Carol. It was a great show, followed by some strolling around downtown afterwards. I soon began to complain of numbness as well and we hopped on the Metro to come home.

So, some photos. Here's the National Christmas Tree and the White House decked out for the holidays. Sorry they're a little dark.

On Saturday morning Grammie helped us decorate the Christmas tree. Anna very meticulously put the little ornaments on the mini artificial tree Grammie gave us our first Christmas as man and wife.

A few days prior, we had gone over to the high school down the street to get our real tree. Anna picked out one for her room, and I think I heard her quoting Charlie Brown, saying, "I think it needs me." It's since been in her room, in a jar of water, with the paper angel she made at CBS standing next to it.

From the Saturday morning parade in Old Town Alexandria.

Does a nation REALLY need this much Starbucks?

Anna and Grammie made some yummy treats!

Here we are before our date! This is for you, JStar.

That about sums it up. Hope it's a jolly holiday time where you are, too!

ThankFULL

2008-12-03T14:10:00.004-05:00

We returned Monday from a wonderful, joy-filled time at home again with family. This one says it all. John was even allowed to borrow Sam's tie for a while.

Anna's first race

She's still talking about "the yace." The chilly Thanksgiving morning found us downtown for the Drumstick Dash 5k. We know she was inspired; who wouldn't be when all you have to do is kick back in the stroller, munch a granola bar, and watch everyone walking and running with their dogs. Mommy and Daddy had it pretty easy, too. We just went for the scene and even found some friends there to walk along and chat with.

Advent with Anna

I was so excited about the arrival of Advent. It's a joy to experience this time through her eyes and anticipate what she may understand or grasp from it this year. I bought this Nativity Advent calendar on CBD and knew she'd be excited about it. Each pocket has a member of the cast and a patch of velcro that attaches it to the scene above. I'll have to take another photo after the 25th and see where everyone ended up. To make it more fun, I put 2 M&M's in each pocket. I should've known that would get her more excited than the figures. This was the best photo we could get because all she wanted to do was show off her treats.

All she wants for Christmas is...

1. All of her teeth! Yes! The long-awaited time has come. For over 2 years now, I've dreaded the arrival of more teeth, though with some relief that once they'd come we were closer to being done. Every few months has been a challenge as we'd face this trial with her, but Glory to God in the Highest, there will be a little more peace on our part of the Earth. Her last 2 molars are cutting their way in. I know more will come at, what is it, 6 and 12? Well, we could all use a break for a few years. The only problem now is, what will my new excuse be for her (thankfully seldom) bad days?

2. "I don't want a baby brudder; I just want a baby Jesus." Those were her words to me yesterday. What a sweet time this is.

A Really Fun Weekend (and it could be yours!)

2008-11-25T15:03:00.003-05:00

This past weekend, we were thrilled to host the Blank family (friends from Germany). Jeff is completing JAG training at UVA and the family was up to see him, so they all made it up to DC for a whirlwind tour. We love hosting friends here and John's great at giving a tour of the highlights, even if you don't have a lot of time. I'm better at showing cute shops and choosing yummy restaurants, Anna's great at sharing toys, so with all of us, you can't go wrong. I didn't get many (okay, any), great shots of the 3 cute girls together, but luckily Mandy is a way more coordinated Mommy than I am. Check out their blog for photos and the run-down of what we accomplished in just over 24 hours.

While I'm at it, I'll put in a plug for coming to see us. Just a reminder that we have lots of space and we love visitors! The holidays are coming, and I know people are busy, but if you have some time off you don't know what to do with, come on over! There's so much to do here that's free and pretty family-friendly.

Where do you blog from?

2008-11-19T19:55:00.003-05:00

As I read your blogs (those of you who have them), I try to imagine where you're sitting and what's around you. It's also fun to hear your voices in my head as I read. So, I tag everyone. Take a photo of where you blog from and post it. Tell us about the place, what goes on in the background, what you should be doing instead, etc. If you're more 21st-century and have the lovely convenience of a laptop and wireless and can blog from anywhere in your house, take a shot of the most common place you blog. Since it's my idea, I'll go first. Our 6-year old desktop computer is down in our basement, which is actually a very nice basement. It's a multi-functional office, gym, laundry room, bedroom for naps and guests, and even has a cozy fireplace, which John built a fire in a week ago and smoked up the whole house. As I write this entry, I can hear Anna singing and talking herself to sleep over the intercom. John's behind me on the futon studying for a Microeconomics exam. Behind him is our "gym." It's really just an elliptical machine and a weight bench we just got off Craig's List. The elliptical is strategically positioned so that I can watch something online (usually from HGTV) while I exercise. Anyway, here's where I sit. This is our new desk and it's the first real desk we've owned. Enjoy it in it's virginal dust-free, not-yet-cluttered state.

For cuteness's sake, here's Anna getting ready to pump some iron.

Photos of Family Time

2008-11-14T16:10:00.007-05:00

I can't believe almost a week has gone by since we returned from home and seeing family last weekend. We had such a great time and made more fun memories to tuck away. It was exciting to share the news of the forthcoming boy, as well. Anna was thrilled to attend another wedding and has been talking about it since. Last night at dinner she told me, "I'm going to have a wedding when I get bigger. And you can watch me dance with my Daddy." Okay, little girl, but Daddy and I are in no hurry!

Our first stop was at Granny Jeanne and Go Gran's for lunch, Nanny joined us, too. It's so special that Anna knows all her great-grandparents on Mommy's side.

The next day was my cousin Linden's wedding. I feel a little old because I can remember going to see her when she was born. I was 6. Isn't she lovely? (JStar, this is the girl I say you look like when your hair is straight, but her hair is curled in this, so you don't really look alike here.)

Anna had her cake on Papa's lap, commenting, "I just yike to eat the icing!"

Here are Papa's 3 girls. Though he hasn't admitted it, I know he's already scheming plans of hunting and fishing with the grandson.

We had a great day on Sunday with Grammie, Uncle Will, Aunt Mary, and the cousins, but this was the only shot I got of it. The kids were too busy playing (Grammie has some awesome play areas set up -- we like to call it Grammie University) and it's neat that Anna's arrived at the age where she can run off and really play with them. They are so sweet to her. Hooray for cousins everywhere we went (and the wonderful hand-me-downs they give us)!

We're so thankful for our big, wonderful family.

It's time for some family time!

2008-11-06T14:15:00.003-05:00

We haven't been home in 4 months and tomorrow we head to the prettier southwestern side of the state; out of the eye pollution of buildings, cars, and concrete and into the mountains in their fall glory. It can't come soon enough! I do enjoy city life, but I have this deep need to be near natural Creation, too.

My cousin is getting married on Saturday and we'll spend the rest of the weekend seeing family. Anna is so excited she's going to get to see grandparents, great-grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles...she even reminded me today of the "tractor and moos" that await at Nanny and Papa's house.

We'll be back on Monday. Hope everyone has a fun weekend!

It's A / Another

2008-11-03T16:27:00.003-05:00

Baby!

Isn't HE cute?!

Yep, it's a boy and definitely a boy! We're delighted. We're looking to trade in lots of pink stuff for lots of blue stuff if anyone's interested. Anna is also happy and doesn't seem bothered that it's not a baby sister.

Busytown!

2008-11-02T21:44:00.001-05:00

On a bit of a whim we headed to Bethesda Friday morning and joined about 80 squirmy elementary schoolers at Imagination Stage to watch Busytown - a theatrical production based on Richard Scarry's books. Anna's a fan of his books and was so excited to see some of her favorites in live action. Huckle Cat, Lowly Worm and Green Pickle Car kept her entertained for the entire show. Photos of the production weren't allowed, but you can check out the site to see a bit of the stage, props, and characters. It was really well done! Here's Anna before the show started:

We were blessed with a beautiful day on Friday. For once I had enough forethought to realize the show would be letting out around lunchtime. Before leaving I snagged some stuff from the cupboards figuring we could find a park or something nearby for a little picnic. It worked out great. After the show we headed over to Potomac Overlook Park in Arlington and enjoyed a tasty lunch in the warm sunshine, the fall colors gleaming all around. After eating we spent some time running about, then headed home for a nap.

Maybe we're just boring, getting old, or lazy, or subconsciously too sugar-conscious, or because we grew up in a box, but our Halloween wasn't much of an event. I ran out that afternoon to get some candy for anticipated trick-or-treaters. Anna had no clue of the holiday that pads the pockets of dentists, but at dinner we told her some children would be coming over in silly clothes asking for candy and she could help us give them some. That was enough to get her excited! A little later we were visited by Thomas the Tank Engine, Tinkerbell, Optimus Prime, Indiana Jones, and some others we couldn't identify.

I guess we started to feel a little sorry for the little girl happily giving out candy, but not receiving any (though I had grossly overestimated how many kids we'd have and still have a ton of candy). We decided a little trick-or-treating lite was in order. I ran upstairs and grabbed something to make an impromptu costume. There are no pictures, but donning a headband with big, yellow-glittery flower petals sticking out all over, I guess you could say Anna was a sunflower dressed in a striped fleece. We took her across the street to our neighbors' and she gave us some candy, we chatted a bit with her, then we came back home. That was that. Don't worry, our child is FAR from deprived, and really, it seems the more you make a big deal about something little, the more she seems to just enjoy the little things. We're pretty sure she went to bed happy, and really had no clue what she missed out on. Maybe next year we'll do better.

The rest of the weekend was as gorgeous as Friday and we got to spend it with friends new and old. We have much to be thankful for.

Check back tomorrow...we hope to have some news!

"Baby Sister"

2008-10-29T14:42:00.003-05:00

No, we haven't found out if #2 is a Percival or a Prunella. (But we hope to on Monday!) However, Anna is convinced she's getting a "baby sister." Oh, and the baby sister is in her tummy, too. I guess that means we're having 2 babies soon? Many times throughout the day she talks about her baby sister and finds toys for her, sets her an extra spoon at the table, etc. When asked what her baby sister's name will be, she answered, "Lena." The only way I can connect that one is we have a neighbor named Elena who is so sweet to Anna when we see her. So, with her invisible friends, Puddlewise and Puddlewash, words we had heard for months and months and finally realized they are "friends", and now her baby sister, Anna has quite the entourage. For now, they're a pretty quiet group, don't eat much real food, and don't take up much room or make too many messes....for now...

This past weekend, our friends Mike and Melissa came for a visit and got to hear all about these pastimes. Anna always loves seeing the MWC girls, and made herself right at home with them. The rain kept us from doing a lot, but it was so fun to have guests and catch up with them some. And Anna always loves having other people's ears to talk off and be entertained by. Here are some photos.

Reading on the couch with "Mike and Missa":

Ready to go, complete with boots and her "pack pack," but still in her jammies:

Thanks for coming!

Our Sensible Little Girl

2008-10-21T13:29:00.002-05:00

On Saturday we took the metro into DC to walk around the National Mall and maybe do a museum if we felt like it. We strolled through the Sculpture Garden. Once there I discovered my camera batteries were dead. Hence the links. Anna thought this was an "emaphant!" Pretty insightful, I thought. Daddy was amazed by Lichtenstein's house. It really is cool to walk past it and see how the dimensions "change" before you.

The funny part was a little further out into the Mall there was a merry-go-round. Now, going around in circles just doesn't appeal to me, but Daddy loves anything that goes and I thought for sure he'd sweep Anna off her feet and they'd be on it in a second. Anna approached it wide-eyed, stood there for a bit analyzing the other children and parents zipping around, then realized, "I'm still too yittle for dat." No batteries in the camera, anyway. Sensible little girl.

"You have a sick nose too?"

2008-10-14T14:34:00.005-05:00

That's what Anna asked me yesterday as she heard me sniffling and blowing my nose. Yes, the germs of the season have come to our house. Last Friday Anna was hit with bilateral conjunctivitis (pink eye in both eyes). At least it gave us the chance to see her new pediatrician, who I think is really great. If only she could've come home with us to administer the ointment required for the icky eyes! I chuckled to myself as the young guy at the pharmacy window instructed me on how to put it in. "Hold her eye open and place a thin ribbon of ointment along the bottom eyelid." Hmm...

To make things more interesting and the nights more sleepless, the cold came to Anna Friday evening. This meant our plans to go see Amy Brown in Charlottesville on Saturday had to be altered. We decided it would be best for Anna to stay home and rest and not share the germs. Daddy was so kind to let me keep my plans with Amy, promising he'd tend to our little convalescent. Well, when you stay home with Daddy "to rest" that means you: take a nap on the couch after breakfast, then you go to the open house at the local fire station, eat popcorn, see fire trucks, go to the pumpkin patch, pick out not 1, but 3 pumpkins: "a big one and 2 baby punkins!", then end it all at McDonald's with a Happy Meal and washing Daddy's car at home. Who wouldn't want to get sick with Daddy around?!

The day away was my longest field trip from my family, but a very special time with Amy and her family. At one point I even forgot I was driving alone in the car and exclaimed, "Look, horsies!" as I wound my way through the hills of Albemarle County's farms. Oops. Here's one of Amy and me watching UVA beat ECU. Go Cavs!

We're still recovering from the colds. We hope to wake up all better tomorrow morning so we can go to watch our friend Chris be inducted into the FBI. Cool!

Baby Update

2008-10-08T20:12:00.003-05:00

16-week check-up on Monday went well. The little ticker was ticking away and all is well. We hope to find out in early Nov. if we're expecting a Prunella or a Percival. Anybody wanna guess?

We're Hearing Wedding Bells

2008-09-30T14:50:00.010-05:00

Do you hear them? They're ringing up and down the east coast. Last weekend took us out to Hume, VA and the wedding of Erin (our dear Amy's sister) and Lucas. To Anna, weddings really just mean cake, dancing, and a pretty lady in a white dress. One day she'll see the need for a groom, but we can wait for that. Here are Anna and Mommy at Erin's wedding. She couldn't get enough Brie. I was tempted, but the beauty of the day and the joy of the occasion more than compensated for my abstinence from soft cheeses.

Sadly, I couldn't get any good shots of the lovely couple, but they were dazzling! Anna heartily enjoyed the cake, and then danced her pants off (literally). Amy was her favorite dance partner, and I had a cute photo of them, but my computer ate it somehow.

Just this past weekend our wedding tour took us to Cape Cod for Matt and Heather's tying of the knot. This was a very special trip, as Nate and Lynn accompanied us! Anna was in heaven! A wedding, plus more of her favorite people...in the car with her for many hours! It just doesn't get much better. Here we all are before the ceremony.

Another radiant couple!

It didn't take much persuasion from our friend D. Bradley to take a little detour over to Nausset Beach before the reception. It was a cool, misty day, but we had fun checking out the cold water, sand, and big waves. Anna was a little surprised to see that New England beaches are nothing like what she remembers from Hawaii. "It's a yittle chillwy," was her summary.

We finally got around to the dancing part again. Oh boy! This time she coaxed Lynn and Nate out to the dance floor with her.

And then there was more good cake!

I love weddings. What a privelege to be invited to witness 2 people make a covenant to one another and to God. We'll have another in November (my cousin), and we'll keep practicing our dancing to be ready!

Off to the Zoo

2008-09-17T13:55:00.007-05:00

Last Friday found us heading to the zoo with the Haines family. Getting to see friends AND going to the zoo is just about all it takes to make our Anna happy for a year. She was pumped!

Looking for pandas:

Posing with Marcus and his mommy (Mya was being shy):

Daddy helped her overcome her height limitations so she could spy on the elephants:

She was not a fan of the gorillas. She said,"Daddy, I don't like those monkeys. I don't want to look at them!" I thought they were funny. They look like little hairy old men.

We saw much, much more. Even a peacock, which brought back some traumatic memories of our trip to HI. I was amazed she remembered the "peacock who tried to get me!" She was also not impressed with the snakes, but she did enjoy the prairie dogs, the turtles, the pandas, and the elephants. We had 3 tuckered tykes by the time our adventure ended. I don't know why she's holding her nose in this photo. We were far enough away from the animals, and I doubt this fiber glass panda had much of a scent.

Seven Years Later

2008-09-11T18:57:00.003-05:00

I'm sure we all remember what we were doing the morning of 9/11/01 when we heard of the terrible events. I was teaching high school in southern Georgia and had to explain to the students what a terrorist (a word not used as much back then) is and what the Twin Towers actually were. They just could not fathom buildings tall enough for planes to fly into, much less why someone would intentionally do so.

Today as Anna and I zoomed along 395 around 9:30 am on our way to a play group, we passed the Pentagon and the site of the new memorial they were dedicating there this morning. I just thought, "Wow, what if I had been driving along here 7 years ago at this time on this date?"

Anna pointed at the tall trident-shaped structure and asked, "What's that?" Seven years later, my life having been directly affected by the War on Terror, I still can't really explain buildings being tall enough for planes to fly into, and why people would want to do that.

Baby Update and Finding Our Niche

2008-09-11T13:07:00.004-05:00

I'm now at 12 weeks and finally got in to see the doctor last week. (Amazing how much more relaxed I am this time around!) All seems good and we got to hear the heartbeat! I'm also thankful that I have turned the corner this week and the nausea is just about gone. I also have more energy and the hormone-induced melancholy and mental fog are abating. I'm just feeling more like myself all around. Thank the Lord!

Perhaps it also helps that Anna and I are finding things to do and are getting out of the house more. Today we went to a play group with moms and kiddos from church. Yesterday was my first day of Community Bible Study. I think we're both really going to like that. Anna has her own class and brought home her folder where we'll keep her "work." It's neat because they actually have a curriculum for children, and it's not just baby-sitting.

So, there's a little more on our new life here. We're still figuring it all out, but that's part of the fun!

Grammie Came to Visit!

2008-09-10T07:27:00.000-05:00

A week ago we had the privilege of hosting Grammie all weekend! It was wonderful to have the loving familiarity of family around and of course, Anna was going full tilt from the moment she arrived. She gave her a huge welcome with a very comprehensive tour of our house.

We had fun times on Friday going back to where Grammie grew up in Arlington. We ended the day with dinner in Old Town. Ahh...I love that place.

The next day Tropical Storm Hanna was pouring out her merciless rains, but we braved it anyway, and headed in to the National Gallery of Art and the MoMA. Anna was a great sport hanging out and taking in the Impressionists and others. What really drew us there was an exhibit called Afghan Treasures - an interesting display of ancient artifacts and precious items that had, until recently, been hidden in Kabul.

Perhaps the highlight of the weekend was making cookies with Grammie after her nap that day. Grammie brought up cookie mix, icing, sprinkles (!!) and fun cookie cutters shaped like leaves, acorns, etc.

The sprinkles were the best!!

She LOVES her Grammie!

When the rain cleared out we were able to get out and walk over to see "Hop Frog Pond." Fans of Little Bear can appreciate that we have our own version of such a place right here in our neighborhood. It's a random pond that's filled with croaking frogs.

Grammie had to leave the next morning, but we're looking forward to her next trip!

New Faces, New Places

2008-09-01T15:23:00.002-05:00

I guess we're settled in, minus wall-hangings and some curtains for which we're still waiting to catch "a vision." A trip to Ikea last week gave us a few solutions. We're getting to know our surroundings, which hasn't been too hard since I swear my husband has an internal GPS and we were already somewhat familiar with this corner of the world. Boy, are there some fun things to do here!

1. We have a "new yibaree," or "library" to most. That was a fun field trip for Anna and Daddy last week when I was knocked out by a stomach bug. Those are never fun, but with being pregnant too, oh my....

2. We've discovered a large, lovely neighborhood behind our town home community that will be great for walks/runs. This is always important to our family.

3. There's a "new fwing", or "swing" at a nearby tot lot that we've visited a couple of times. No room in our backpatch for her own swing. Notice I didn't say "backyard." I'd offer some photos, but I just discovered our camera the other day and the batteries are dead. When fresh batteries turn up, photos will come.

4. We reconnected with friends Marvin and Michelle (John went to high school with them) and their 2 adorable kiddos Marcus and Mya on Friday. Anna really enjoyed her new friends.

5. We were also blessed to host Amy Brown on Saturday. Anna always loves seeing Amy, and so do we! We spent the evening in Old Town Alexandria. It's SO fun there and I can't believe I get to live so close to it. Come visit us, friends!!

6. Anna's learning the wonders of public transport. There's a metro station just a few minutes from our house. Lots of folks walk (it would be tricky with a stroller), or a bus that stops right next to our house can get you there, or you can drive, park and ride the train. John rides his bike there to catch the train to Georgetown.

7. We've also enjoyed trying a "new chuch." Anna's done great going to the nursery the 2 Sundays we've gone.

8. A new routine! We're still figuring out how day-to-day life will play out. One thing we know is John's schedule is something we're very happy with! He only has classes Tue.-Thu. That's right. 4-day weekends every weekend! I'm not sure we'll have this the whole time we're here, but we are thankful to have it this semester. Since he's only had 1 official day of real classes, it remains to be seen how demanding the academics will be and how much time will have to be devoted to school outside of the classroom. Either way, we're just happy he's with us!

School Days

2008-08-20T10:48:00.002-05:00

This morning we dropped Daddy off at the metro station before we headed off for a grocery trip. The following conversation took place soon after we drove away.

Anna: Where's Daddy's train go?
Me: Daddy's train takes him to school.
Anna: I wanna go to school too!
Me: You'll go to school when you get bigger.
(A short pause)
Anna: I think I'm a little bigger now!

Making Do

2008-08-16T20:30:00.003-05:00

We've arrived in Alexandria and it's nice to be back in our home state. I guess Anna is no longer a sweet "carolina girl," but it would be too tricky to change that now, so I guess our blog address will remain "sweet carolanna girl."

Anyway, we like our new house a lot. We have ample space that we have a lot of options for and I'm wishing I had some home organizational/decorating skills. The truck comes tomorrow with our stuff. Yeah, on a Sunday. Weird. We've been happy living simply with our requisite computer and internet running today (priorities!), air mattress, camp chairs, and plastic ware, but it will be nice to have our familiar comforts. Anna has been great and enjoyed the few days we stayed with our friends, the Gigrich's. They have 4 boys - 7, 5, and twin 2-year olds...plus a dog, so there was fun all over that house!

We've met some neighbors and they seem nice. Of course, we'll always prefer familiar faces, so make plans to come see us. Plenty of room for guests!

Here's a photo of Anna yesterday morning with her breakfast. We put her little booster chair on top of a foot locker so she could reach her TV table. Perfect.