2008 has been a whirlwind for Benji and I.
Early in the year we found out I was pregnant. I spent much of the first part of the year in a nauseous haze, taking classes and working at Starbucks. Benji was still taking classes and working.
January, Benji started looking for a job. He began the process of sending out his resume. Like 40 resumes. January went by, then Feb, March, April, May, June.......the whole time we were just praying for the perfect job for him.
In May I graduated from seminary and Benji quit his job driving the bus, but still caddied. In mid July I quit mine.
July, Benji finished his classes. Then he got a call from Brushy Creek....and then Emery was born.
August we put our house on the market(in this economy-yeah).
Benji got a job, we moved two weeks after Emery was born, sold our house 7 weeks after putting it on the market.
September I moved to Ga to stay with my mom while we found an apt. Benji moved to SC to start his job.....he slept on a couch of a gracious church member.
October, Emery and I joined Benji in SC, lived in one apt...moved to another apt....
November, Emery finally started sleeping through the night really well. We had Thanksgiving for the first time in 4 years with both our families.
It was also the first Thanksgiving in 4 years that I did not have to work.
November, we also began the house hunting process, we've made one offer that didn't work out, but have recently found another that may be the house.
December, Benji finally officially graduated and put an end to our seven year marathon through school.
Emery rolled over for the first time yesterday. And rolled, and rolled again.
I saw her first tooth today....
Makes my head hurt just thinking back on it all.
We have been so blessed this year with so many milestones.
I want to make sure that you all know that I take no blessing for granted. We are not worthy of any of the ways that God has chosen to bless us. And while it is hard sometimes to accept, we know that God is good no matter what the circumstance.
He sold our house, provided a job, created Emery and intrusted us with the responsibility of raising her. We are so undeserving of all the good that comes from God, yet we rejoice and with full hearts accept it gladly.
Looking forward to 2009.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Cheese Sample
Scene 1: Setting: Costco
Fat Girl: played by Kristi
Cheese Lady: played by Cheese Lady
Fat Girl walks into Costco alone and innocently approaches the sample counter.
Cheese Lady: "Hey, go ahead and take some....it's good for you....."
Fat Girl: Takes a sample of aged cheddar. "Thanks."
Cheese Lady: ".....It will make that baby come out faster......."
Fat Girl: "Ha ha..... I'm not pregnant."
Fat Girl: played by Kristi
Cheese Lady: played by Cheese Lady
Fat Girl walks into Costco alone and innocently approaches the sample counter.
Cheese Lady: "Hey, go ahead and take some....it's good for you....."
Fat Girl: Takes a sample of aged cheddar. "Thanks."
Cheese Lady: ".....It will make that baby come out faster......."
Fat Girl: "Ha ha..... I'm not pregnant."
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Scent Of A Woman
Based on appearance, most of the time you would never know how much I love beauty products.
Sephora is my absolute favorite store in the world. I love to buy cosmetics, but ironically, hardly ever wear them. In a perfect world I would shower every day, dry my hair and "put on my face...."
I'm lucky if most days I get my hair brushed after showering.
One of the beauty rituals I love most is putting on perfume. If you know me well, you know that I have a slight obsession with perfume. I think nothing of throwing down 100 bucks on a 3.8oz bottle.
Perfume has a magical way of conjuring up memories from years past. One whiff of a perfume I wore through the years and I can tell you exactly what it reminds me of.
Ralph Lauren's Romance reminds me of my world travels. I took a bottle with me when I lived in Argentina, when I spent time in Africa and then recently in China. This is the perfume that I have bought the most bottles of in my life. I will wear this as long as they make it.
Victoria Secret's retired scent, Halo reminds me of my year of waiting tables at Macaroni Grill.
Marc Jacob, my time at North Greenville, specifically my last semester working in the Registrar's office.
Banana Republic's W, the summer Benji and I fell in love. When I wear it now he always says that I "smell like his girlfriend".
Lancome's Miracle, reminds me of Benji's wreck. I wore it all while he was recovering in the hospital.
Thierry Mugler's Angel, my time at Southern Seminary and at Starbucks, Prospect. I actually found out about this perfume from one of the customers that used to come in....I had to have it. If you are looking for a new perfume, this is also one of my all time favorites. I will wear it forever.
Vera Wang, reminds me of the last few months we spent in Greenville. Specifically one night when we ate at The Peddler steakhouse.
If you don't wear perfume I suggest you start. It is an intangible way to collect memories....
And it gives you an excuse to skip a shower every now and then.
Sephora is my absolute favorite store in the world. I love to buy cosmetics, but ironically, hardly ever wear them. In a perfect world I would shower every day, dry my hair and "put on my face...."
I'm lucky if most days I get my hair brushed after showering.
One of the beauty rituals I love most is putting on perfume. If you know me well, you know that I have a slight obsession with perfume. I think nothing of throwing down 100 bucks on a 3.8oz bottle.
Perfume has a magical way of conjuring up memories from years past. One whiff of a perfume I wore through the years and I can tell you exactly what it reminds me of.
Ralph Lauren's Romance reminds me of my world travels. I took a bottle with me when I lived in Argentina, when I spent time in Africa and then recently in China. This is the perfume that I have bought the most bottles of in my life. I will wear this as long as they make it.
Victoria Secret's retired scent, Halo reminds me of my year of waiting tables at Macaroni Grill.
Marc Jacob, my time at North Greenville, specifically my last semester working in the Registrar's office.
Banana Republic's W, the summer Benji and I fell in love. When I wear it now he always says that I "smell like his girlfriend".
Lancome's Miracle, reminds me of Benji's wreck. I wore it all while he was recovering in the hospital.
Thierry Mugler's Angel, my time at Southern Seminary and at Starbucks, Prospect. I actually found out about this perfume from one of the customers that used to come in....I had to have it. If you are looking for a new perfume, this is also one of my all time favorites. I will wear it forever.
Vera Wang, reminds me of the last few months we spent in Greenville. Specifically one night when we ate at The Peddler steakhouse.
If you don't wear perfume I suggest you start. It is an intangible way to collect memories....
And it gives you an excuse to skip a shower every now and then.
Post Partum Blues
My hair has finally started falling out. This is unfortunately one of the side effects of pregnancy. They don't tell you when you ARE pregnant that all that luscious, thick, shiny hair falls out after the baby.....
So while you are sleep deprived, scarred with stretch marks (in places you didn't even know could get stretch marks), fifty pounds over weight, still wearing maternity cloths (five months later).....your hair will start to fall out in clumps.
Oh the joys of motherhood.
So while you are sleep deprived, scarred with stretch marks (in places you didn't even know could get stretch marks), fifty pounds over weight, still wearing maternity cloths (five months later).....your hair will start to fall out in clumps.
Oh the joys of motherhood.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Benji Finally Walked
Here is my shout out to my amazingly smart, disciplined, and determined husband. Benji finally got his diploma. He is officially a "Master of Divinity." As if you could ever master divinity....but I digress...
Benji finished his classes in July, but had to wait all the way until December to receive his diploma.
Needless to say I am sooo proud of him. Southern Seminary is one of the most difficult schools in the country. The academic expectations are like no other Seminary in the country. Benji worked full time, often two jobs, and took a full load of classes. For four years straight.
We set out on our journey together seven years ago, with no college degrees, no job, and obviously no money... Education has always been such an important part of our life, to finally be done feels weird and a little sad. We loved our time at North Greenville and at Southern Seminary.
We are officially in the real world!
Benji finished his classes in July, but had to wait all the way until December to receive his diploma.
Needless to say I am sooo proud of him. Southern Seminary is one of the most difficult schools in the country. The academic expectations are like no other Seminary in the country. Benji worked full time, often two jobs, and took a full load of classes. For four years straight.
We set out on our journey together seven years ago, with no college degrees, no job, and obviously no money... Education has always been such an important part of our life, to finally be done feels weird and a little sad. We loved our time at North Greenville and at Southern Seminary.
We are officially in the real world!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
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Carter Connections
Let me tell you a little bit about our friends Matt and Carla Carter. This is them at Halloween. Matt was Ed McMahn, Carla, the first woman to win the Publishers Clearing House and Scout, their daughter, was the camera man(girl,kid...whatever).
The Carter family has meant alot to us over the years. I first met Matt in my first class at North Greenville, when we lived in Greenville 6 years ago. Through talking with him I found out that his dad was a pastor at a local church. Benji and I had just moved to the area and were looking for a church.
We decided to visit Matt's dad's church. We ended up loving it. That church was Brushy Creek, where Benji works today......
We ended up in the same Sunday School class as Matt and his then fiance, Carla. Benji and I had moved to Greenville with no jobs, no money, just a bunch of hope.....
Matt mentioned to Benji one day that a guy in the church had offered him a job working in his company's warehouse, Matt wasn't interested in the job, but he thought Benji might be....
Benji ended up taking the job. He loved it and it was one of the greatest blessings of our lives. The job sustained us throughout our last years in college. The company even paid Benji while he was recovering from a bad wreck he had in 2002.
Now that we are back in Greenville we have loved getting to hang out with all the Carter clan again.....Matt is even our real estate agent.
The best thing about the Carters, however, is their knowledge of obscure baby products.
Emery had a cold this past week and much to my horror, the pediatrician told me the only thing I could really do to help her was to use that useless bulb thingy that I stole from the hospital when she was born.
Carla called me up after she found out Emery was sick and mentioned that she had this device that......get this.... PLUGS INTO THE VACUUM CLEANER and sucks the snot out of their noses...
I know, you're thinking, "that would suck her brains out!" That's what we thought. But I'm telling you, this little thing is the most AMAZING invention ever!
Somehow the suction is lighter because the device is so small. So you just plug it into the attachment hose on the vacuum, turn the vacuum on, and suck away!
I know, you're also wondering "where can I get one of those!?" Good luck. They are only made and sold in New Zealand. You may be able to find one on Ebay. The proper name is actually, Baby Vac... but I prefer Turbo Snot Sucker.
Emery was a little scared of the vacuum noise, but she did not mind the suction as much as the bulb thingy, she hates the bulb thingy.
Thanks, Matt and Carla for all your blessings! Especially the turbo snot sucker!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Whole Bunch of Random Nothings
I'm really scattered right now. But want to update some things.
Emery has been sick this week with a cold. It was pitiful. Our friends let us borrow this turbo snot sucker. It was amazing. I'll post pics later of it in action....you don't want to miss that. Seriously.
She is gonna start eating food this week. I'm planning on making my own baby food. fun.
We didn't get the house. The girl was smokin crack.... It's cool though. God is in control.
Kathi had her first baby shower today. I am so excited for her and so ready to meet Asher.
I'm not putting up a tree this year. I'm a scrooge. Get over it.
Benji and I don't swap Xmas gifts. We get anything and everything we want all year. Why spend money we don't have on each other.
You can say Xmas because the X is the Greek letter that begins the name of Christ in Greek. I'm not anti Christmas.
Our Christmas cards say "Happy Holidays" because they were the only ones I liked at Walgreens. Get over that too.
You can say "Happy Holidays" because that includes Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.... and Holidays means Holy days.......
Finally for your reading, blog stalking pleasure.... a litte worthless info about muah......
Do you have a favorite TV commercial?
The Sonic ones make me laugh.
Would you rather be called hot, cute, or beautiful?
Beautiful. definitely.
Do you have a little sister?
Yes
Do you like to listen to the radio when you're in the car?
Yes, but i prefer my ipod.
Do you own anything from Tiffany & Co?
Yes
When's the last time you ate at Taco Bell?
Over a year ago probably....
Have you ever been to New York?
Yes
True or false: Miley Cyrus is the most annoying person ever?..
Not the most, but she's on the list.
Do you like to wear flip-flops?
Yes, all year long.
What is your favorite salad dressing?
Im gonna have to go with the typical red neck answer, ranch.
Have you ever been to Disney World?
yes
Is your computer a Dell?
Why yes it is... and i love it.
Have you ever broken anything because you were mad?
yes
Do you like wearing headbands?
Frequently
Do you have a Louis Vuitton purse?
Yes
What's your favorite smell?
Coffee
What was the last thing you ate?
Fudge I made
Do you like the song Crush by David Archuleta?
Sure
Have you ever watched The OC?
Yes
Do you write in cursive or print?
Only print...funny story behind that.
Do you like Converse?
Yeah, I wish i still had mine.
Have you ever watched the show House Hunters?
Yes, I watch it alot when I'm at my mom's house.
When's the last time you had an Oreo?
Thanksgiving at my in laws.
How old were you when you got your first cell phone?
16. I had one of those big ol bag phones...cool.
Do you have a friend named Ashley?
yes
Have you ever eaten at Chick-fil-a?
Ha ha...only like once a week! mmmmm.
Type some lyrics from the song your listening to right now:
Only hear Emery gruntin in the monitor by the bed.....but I do have that Pink song, "So What" stuck in my head.
When's the last time you went to Wal-Mart?
Who knows, I try not to go there. I hate it.
Do you prefer one-pieces, tankinis, or bikinis?
I did prefer bikinis...but post baby I prefer jeans and a sweatshirt.
Did you wake up before 8am this morning?
Thankfully, no.
Do you wear eyeliner?
Yes
When's the last time you ate spaghetti?
I made it recently.
What size bed do you have?
Queen
Is fall your favorite season?
No, summer.
What did you do today?
Played with Emery, went to Kathi's shower, went to Barnes and Noble, cleaned up, played with Emery.....etc....
Where will you be 12 hours from now?
At church
Have you ever been to a tanning bed?
Yes, and I've been thinking about going again, b/c tan fat is better than white fat. ha ha.
Is it easy for others to make you feel awkward?
No. I'm usually the one in control.
What are you going to do tomorrrow?
Church.
What was the first thing you thought this morning?
I'm gonna be late.
Do you regret anything?
No regrets. ever.
When was the last time you cried and the reasons?
Who knows. I cry to much.
Emery has been sick this week with a cold. It was pitiful. Our friends let us borrow this turbo snot sucker. It was amazing. I'll post pics later of it in action....you don't want to miss that. Seriously.
She is gonna start eating food this week. I'm planning on making my own baby food. fun.
We didn't get the house. The girl was smokin crack.... It's cool though. God is in control.
Kathi had her first baby shower today. I am so excited for her and so ready to meet Asher.
I'm not putting up a tree this year. I'm a scrooge. Get over it.
Benji and I don't swap Xmas gifts. We get anything and everything we want all year. Why spend money we don't have on each other.
You can say Xmas because the X is the Greek letter that begins the name of Christ in Greek. I'm not anti Christmas.
Our Christmas cards say "Happy Holidays" because they were the only ones I liked at Walgreens. Get over that too.
You can say "Happy Holidays" because that includes Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.... and Holidays means Holy days.......
Finally for your reading, blog stalking pleasure.... a litte worthless info about muah......
Do you have a favorite TV commercial?
The Sonic ones make me laugh.
Would you rather be called hot, cute, or beautiful?
Beautiful. definitely.
Do you have a little sister?
Yes
Do you like to listen to the radio when you're in the car?
Yes, but i prefer my ipod.
Do you own anything from Tiffany & Co?
Yes
When's the last time you ate at Taco Bell?
Over a year ago probably....
Have you ever been to New York?
Yes
True or false: Miley Cyrus is the most annoying person ever?..
Not the most, but she's on the list.
Do you like to wear flip-flops?
Yes, all year long.
What is your favorite salad dressing?
Im gonna have to go with the typical red neck answer, ranch.
Have you ever been to Disney World?
yes
Is your computer a Dell?
Why yes it is... and i love it.
Have you ever broken anything because you were mad?
yes
Do you like wearing headbands?
Frequently
Do you have a Louis Vuitton purse?
Yes
What's your favorite smell?
Coffee
What was the last thing you ate?
Fudge I made
Do you like the song Crush by David Archuleta?
Sure
Have you ever watched The OC?
Yes
Do you write in cursive or print?
Only print...funny story behind that.
Do you like Converse?
Yeah, I wish i still had mine.
Have you ever watched the show House Hunters?
Yes, I watch it alot when I'm at my mom's house.
When's the last time you had an Oreo?
Thanksgiving at my in laws.
How old were you when you got your first cell phone?
16. I had one of those big ol bag phones...cool.
Do you have a friend named Ashley?
yes
Have you ever eaten at Chick-fil-a?
Ha ha...only like once a week! mmmmm.
Type some lyrics from the song your listening to right now:
Only hear Emery gruntin in the monitor by the bed.....but I do have that Pink song, "So What" stuck in my head.
When's the last time you went to Wal-Mart?
Who knows, I try not to go there. I hate it.
Do you prefer one-pieces, tankinis, or bikinis?
I did prefer bikinis...but post baby I prefer jeans and a sweatshirt.
Did you wake up before 8am this morning?
Thankfully, no.
Do you wear eyeliner?
Yes
When's the last time you ate spaghetti?
I made it recently.
What size bed do you have?
Queen
Is fall your favorite season?
No, summer.
What did you do today?
Played with Emery, went to Kathi's shower, went to Barnes and Noble, cleaned up, played with Emery.....etc....
Where will you be 12 hours from now?
At church
Have you ever been to a tanning bed?
Yes, and I've been thinking about going again, b/c tan fat is better than white fat. ha ha.
Is it easy for others to make you feel awkward?
No. I'm usually the one in control.
What are you going to do tomorrrow?
Church.
What was the first thing you thought this morning?
I'm gonna be late.
Do you regret anything?
No regrets. ever.
When was the last time you cried and the reasons?
Who knows. I cry to much.
Monday, November 24, 2008
I've Got A Man
We made an offer on a house today. Kind of a random time, the week of Thanksgiving, but if it all works out we will be minutes from the church in a great neighborhood. The house has a fenced back yard, garage, loads of storage space, fireplace and hardwood floors. Pray that we will buy the house that is perfect for us. We want to live where God wants us.
I'm gonna be sappy here for a moment, not like me I know, but I've got to give props where props are due every now and then......
I love being able to stay at home with Emery. I am so thankful for Benji. He is the hardest working man I know. People give pastors a hard time for "not having a real job", but Benji's job never ends. He is a pastor 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Benji has worked his share of "real jobs".......
Everyone knows he got up at 5:30 every morning during seminary to drive a school bus, only to then go to class during his afternoon break, go back to pick the kids up, then go back to school for night class.
During the summer and on the weekends he would caddy at Valhalla. Some times carrying two bags at a time, walking up to 14 miles a day. He would then come home and do homework.
Before he drove the school bus he worked at Home Depot pulling huge lumber orders and collecting shopping carts in the freezing Louisville winter. He also worked in the stock room at Ann Taylor, yes, Ann Taylor. Laugh if you want, but he did it to pay the bills. Something that most men have forgotten how to do these days.
I can't end a post about giving props without giving props to who taught Benji how to work, and work hard. He was raised by two amazing parents who taught him the value of hard work, honesty and integrity. They taught him that it is important to get to work on time. It is important to do what you say you will do. Keep your word. Show gratitude to those who help you. Have humility and show grace.
Most importantly, Benji's parents taught him how to love his family. He is the most caring and loving husband and father ever. He provides for us in so many ways. I thank God every day for blessing me with the honor of being his wife.
I'm gonna be sappy here for a moment, not like me I know, but I've got to give props where props are due every now and then......
I love being able to stay at home with Emery. I am so thankful for Benji. He is the hardest working man I know. People give pastors a hard time for "not having a real job", but Benji's job never ends. He is a pastor 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Benji has worked his share of "real jobs".......
Everyone knows he got up at 5:30 every morning during seminary to drive a school bus, only to then go to class during his afternoon break, go back to pick the kids up, then go back to school for night class.
During the summer and on the weekends he would caddy at Valhalla. Some times carrying two bags at a time, walking up to 14 miles a day. He would then come home and do homework.
Before he drove the school bus he worked at Home Depot pulling huge lumber orders and collecting shopping carts in the freezing Louisville winter. He also worked in the stock room at Ann Taylor, yes, Ann Taylor. Laugh if you want, but he did it to pay the bills. Something that most men have forgotten how to do these days.
I can't end a post about giving props without giving props to who taught Benji how to work, and work hard. He was raised by two amazing parents who taught him the value of hard work, honesty and integrity. They taught him that it is important to get to work on time. It is important to do what you say you will do. Keep your word. Show gratitude to those who help you. Have humility and show grace.
Most importantly, Benji's parents taught him how to love his family. He is the most caring and loving husband and father ever. He provides for us in so many ways. I thank God every day for blessing me with the honor of being his wife.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Kicks and Giggles
Emery is starting to laugh. It's more like a kackle....
It is the most precious sound I've ever heard.
She loves her feet. And her Mama.
The past 4 months have flown by.....I am so thankful for every second.
Well, almost every second...those first few days at home trying to breastfeed, not so fun.
It is the most precious sound I've ever heard.
She loves her feet. And her Mama.
The past 4 months have flown by.....I am so thankful for every second.
Well, almost every second...those first few days at home trying to breastfeed, not so fun.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Confessions Of A Stay At Home Mom
My life has changed completely in the past 4 months. I have to say that I am having the best time of my life. I've heard people say before that life doesn't really begin until you have children, I would have to agree. I have never been as happy and fulfilled as a human as I am when Emery smiles at me.
That's all it takes is her smile. I know that my life finally counts for something. Benji and I want a few more children, so I know that I will be spending the next few years of my life primarily being a mom.......
Here is the issue: Most of you know that I graduated in May with my Master of Divinity from the school of Theology at Southern Seminary. I spent 4 years, 94 credit hours, 2 semesters of Greek, 2 semesters of Hebrew........ I'm not trying to impress anyone, just trying to make it clear that it was a lot of hard work. I shed a lot of tears and pulled many all nighters......
Benji graduated with the same degree and is now a high school youth pastor. I am staying at home with Emery. Which is what I WANT to do. I went to school knowing that I would stay at home with our children.
I went to seminary because I wanted to learn. I wanted to be immersed in the Word of God. I wanted to study the history of our Christian fathers and learn the original language that the Scriptures were written in.
Isn't education it's OWN reward? Do we educate ourselves for the sole purpose of making an income?
So why is it that I am constantly being asked, "so, what are you going to do with your degree?" (if you've asked me this don't take this blog personally, TONS of people have asked).
I am tired of feeling like I have to defend my decision to go to school and then to stay at home.
I went to school because I wanted to and I am staying home because I want to. It's that simple.
Besides, next week I'm gonna start teaching Emery how to memorize the Westminster Confession.
That's all it takes is her smile. I know that my life finally counts for something. Benji and I want a few more children, so I know that I will be spending the next few years of my life primarily being a mom.......
Here is the issue: Most of you know that I graduated in May with my Master of Divinity from the school of Theology at Southern Seminary. I spent 4 years, 94 credit hours, 2 semesters of Greek, 2 semesters of Hebrew........ I'm not trying to impress anyone, just trying to make it clear that it was a lot of hard work. I shed a lot of tears and pulled many all nighters......
Benji graduated with the same degree and is now a high school youth pastor. I am staying at home with Emery. Which is what I WANT to do. I went to school knowing that I would stay at home with our children.
I went to seminary because I wanted to learn. I wanted to be immersed in the Word of God. I wanted to study the history of our Christian fathers and learn the original language that the Scriptures were written in.
Isn't education it's OWN reward? Do we educate ourselves for the sole purpose of making an income?
So why is it that I am constantly being asked, "so, what are you going to do with your degree?" (if you've asked me this don't take this blog personally, TONS of people have asked).
I am tired of feeling like I have to defend my decision to go to school and then to stay at home.
I went to school because I wanted to and I am staying home because I want to. It's that simple.
Besides, next week I'm gonna start teaching Emery how to memorize the Westminster Confession.
Heart Attack
I'm working on my blog layout. I just thought I had lost all my posts.
I almost had a heart attack.
I almost had a heart attack.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Heirs To The Kingdom
Many of you know that my sister and I are adopted. My parents always made us feel special for being adopted. It was never a secret, and they always told us that "that we were chosen, prayer babies....."
I have always loved the fact that I know first hand what it feels like to literally be adopted into a family. When I became a believer in Christ I always related to the passages on being adopted into the family of God, and being heirs to God's kingdom.
Now that I am a mother I am sure that there is no greater thing that a mature, Christian family can do then to bring unwanted children into the fold of a loving family.
Pray for Benji and I as we consider the future of our family. We definitely want to have more biological children, but the Lord has put a desire in both our hearts to give the gift of family to children who are alone in the world.
Watch this special story of a family who felt the call of God on their lives to give the gift of adoption. The result of their obedience gave them far more in return....
I have always loved the fact that I know first hand what it feels like to literally be adopted into a family. When I became a believer in Christ I always related to the passages on being adopted into the family of God, and being heirs to God's kingdom.
Now that I am a mother I am sure that there is no greater thing that a mature, Christian family can do then to bring unwanted children into the fold of a loving family.
Pray for Benji and I as we consider the future of our family. We definitely want to have more biological children, but the Lord has put a desire in both our hearts to give the gift of family to children who are alone in the world.
Watch this special story of a family who felt the call of God on their lives to give the gift of adoption. The result of their obedience gave them far more in return....
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Emery The Kewpie Doll
My friend Carla took this pic of E. She told me I should google the "Kewpie doll" to see how similar they look.
Emery is definitely the cutest baby I've ever seen.
Emery is definitely the cutest baby I've ever seen.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Happy Reformation Day
Many of you might not know but October 31 is not only halloween but Reformation Day!
Here's some info, if you're interested....p.s. there are halloween photos at the bottom, but you can only view them if you read about The Reformation....ha.
The Protestant Reformation was a reform movement in Europe that began in 1517, though its roots lie further back in time. It began with Martin Luther and may be considered to have ended with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648.
The movement began as an attempt to reform the Catholic Church. Many western Catholics were troubled by what they saw as false doctrines and malpractices within the Church, particularly involving the teaching and sale of indulgences. Another major contention was the practice of buying and selling church positions (simony) and what was seen at the time as considerable corruption within the Church's hierarchy. This corruption was seen by many at the time as systemic, even reaching the position of the Pope.
Martin Luther's spiritual predecessors included men such as John Wycliffe and Jan Hus, who had attempted to reform the church along similar lines, though their efforts had been largely unsuccessful.
The Reformation can be said to have begun in earnest on October 31, 1517, in Wittenberg, Saxony (in present-day Germany). There, Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the All Saints' Church, which served as a notice board for university-related announcements.
These were points for debate that criticized the Church and the Pope. The most controversial points centered on the practice of selling indulgences and the Church's policy on purgatory.
Other reformers, such as Ulrich Zwingli, soon followed Luther's lead. Church beliefs and practices under attack by Protestant reformers included purgatory, particular judgment, devotion to Mary (Mariology), the intercession of and devotion to the saints, most of the sacraments, the mandatory celibacy requirement of its clergy (including monasticism), and the authority of the Pope.
"Night and day I pondered until I saw the connection between the justice of God and the statement that 'the just shall live by his faith.' Then I grasped that the justice of God is that righteousness by which through grace and sheer mercy God justifies us through faith. Thereupon I felt myself to be reborn and to have gone through open doors into paradise." Luther
Enough of that. Emery's the cutest pumpkin ever.....
Benji and I were SCARY!!!!
The Halloween Partay! We are so blessed to have such an awesome group of friends here in Greenville.
Here's some info, if you're interested....p.s. there are halloween photos at the bottom, but you can only view them if you read about The Reformation....ha.
The Protestant Reformation was a reform movement in Europe that began in 1517, though its roots lie further back in time. It began with Martin Luther and may be considered to have ended with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648.
The movement began as an attempt to reform the Catholic Church. Many western Catholics were troubled by what they saw as false doctrines and malpractices within the Church, particularly involving the teaching and sale of indulgences. Another major contention was the practice of buying and selling church positions (simony) and what was seen at the time as considerable corruption within the Church's hierarchy. This corruption was seen by many at the time as systemic, even reaching the position of the Pope.
Martin Luther's spiritual predecessors included men such as John Wycliffe and Jan Hus, who had attempted to reform the church along similar lines, though their efforts had been largely unsuccessful.
The Reformation can be said to have begun in earnest on October 31, 1517, in Wittenberg, Saxony (in present-day Germany). There, Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the All Saints' Church, which served as a notice board for university-related announcements.
These were points for debate that criticized the Church and the Pope. The most controversial points centered on the practice of selling indulgences and the Church's policy on purgatory.
Other reformers, such as Ulrich Zwingli, soon followed Luther's lead. Church beliefs and practices under attack by Protestant reformers included purgatory, particular judgment, devotion to Mary (Mariology), the intercession of and devotion to the saints, most of the sacraments, the mandatory celibacy requirement of its clergy (including monasticism), and the authority of the Pope.
"Night and day I pondered until I saw the connection between the justice of God and the statement that 'the just shall live by his faith.' Then I grasped that the justice of God is that righteousness by which through grace and sheer mercy God justifies us through faith. Thereupon I felt myself to be reborn and to have gone through open doors into paradise." Luther
Enough of that. Emery's the cutest pumpkin ever.....
Benji and I were SCARY!!!!
The Halloween Partay! We are so blessed to have such an awesome group of friends here in Greenville.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Better Late Than Never
This one's been around awhile, but never gets old. Watch this one first......
Then watch this one.....
Then watch this one.....
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Air Control
Anyone that knows us well know that I am married to a man's man. Benji is on all sides your all American guy. He drives a big ol' truck, WITH 4 wheel drive. He loves college football. Loves golf. He would rather deer hunt and turkey hunt than anything in the world....
He played baseball in high school and college, thinks soccer is for pansies and wouldn't be caught dead eating quiche.
I tried to get him to moisturize and exfoliate his face when we were engaged and he just laughed at me.
There is one thing, however, that separates Benji from the rest of the guys who have a lifetime membership card to bass pro.....
Benji has become addicted to my Aveda hair spray. Yes it is true.
My sister, and my friend Loria and I have been Aveda addicts for many years. I use the shampoo, lotions, perfumes, skin care products, and hair styling products. Any product they have made, I have bought at once in my life.
At first Benji was very resistant to my Aveda addiction. Aveda is not cheap. It is all natural plant derived products. Friendly to the environment and to the body.
One can of hair spray cost about $24.00. Benji about had a hernia the first time I bought it while he was with me. I assured him that I don't use that much hair spray, and that it would last me awhile......
Then the day came when Benji haphazardly used my hairspray..... and a new addict was born. He, however, uses about a can every two months. Much more than I use...... I tried to ween him off of it one time and he complained every day that the "new" "cheap" hairspray didn't work as good.
Yesterday I got a frantic phone call, it was Benji wanting me to pick up some hair spray. 24 dollar hair spray.
I told him I wasn't getting Aveda anymore, because we can't afford Aveda hair spray.....but then I started thinking about how I would need more shampoo soon and I didn't want to have to buy my shampoo at Bi-Lo. I also thought of how hard he's been working, and how his hair does look better when he uses Aveda.
So I caved. And I bought him 3 cans.
We will just have to eat spaghettios and canned tuna for the rest of the month, but his hair will look good when he goes deer huntin.
He played baseball in high school and college, thinks soccer is for pansies and wouldn't be caught dead eating quiche.
I tried to get him to moisturize and exfoliate his face when we were engaged and he just laughed at me.
There is one thing, however, that separates Benji from the rest of the guys who have a lifetime membership card to bass pro.....
Benji has become addicted to my Aveda hair spray. Yes it is true.
My sister, and my friend Loria and I have been Aveda addicts for many years. I use the shampoo, lotions, perfumes, skin care products, and hair styling products. Any product they have made, I have bought at once in my life.
At first Benji was very resistant to my Aveda addiction. Aveda is not cheap. It is all natural plant derived products. Friendly to the environment and to the body.
One can of hair spray cost about $24.00. Benji about had a hernia the first time I bought it while he was with me. I assured him that I don't use that much hair spray, and that it would last me awhile......
Then the day came when Benji haphazardly used my hairspray..... and a new addict was born. He, however, uses about a can every two months. Much more than I use...... I tried to ween him off of it one time and he complained every day that the "new" "cheap" hairspray didn't work as good.
Yesterday I got a frantic phone call, it was Benji wanting me to pick up some hair spray. 24 dollar hair spray.
I told him I wasn't getting Aveda anymore, because we can't afford Aveda hair spray.....but then I started thinking about how I would need more shampoo soon and I didn't want to have to buy my shampoo at Bi-Lo. I also thought of how hard he's been working, and how his hair does look better when he uses Aveda.
So I caved. And I bought him 3 cans.
We will just have to eat spaghettios and canned tuna for the rest of the month, but his hair will look good when he goes deer huntin.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
I Got Nothing But Love
My life is over flowing with love right now.
I love love love Emery. People always say that until you are a parent you'll never fully understand unconditional love.....well people were right. The best part of my day is in the morning when she first wakes up. She is so happy and we just smile and laugh at each other for awhile. I love being back in Greenville. I love our church and the fact that Benji actually gets paid to do what he loves.
In honor of all the loveliness in my life right now I've decided to post a list of all things loved by muah.... in no particular order, okay...
(so dont get all righteous on me if Jesus is on the list below mascara).
*emerys smile *vance licking my face *the way benjis eyes turn up when he smiles *sushi with girlfriends *my coffee pot.grinds the beans fresh every morning *sugar in the raw *natural peanut butter *mascara *shoes *maternity jeans *bravo tv marathons *season one of greys *mission trips to new countries *stamps in my passport *election years *lattes *black coffee *dry breve cappuccinos *irresistible grace *the sea shore *remembering summers on the lake *a good cheap manicure *the smell of my shampoo *sephora *reformation history *itunes gift cards *fridays with benji *sunday mornings *books *romans 8:28-31 *being a mama *benji cooking breakfast *fall mornings *old hymns *advil *san pellegrino *jesus' blood and righteousness *weddings *graduations *text messages *hoodies *the streets of buenos aires *hearing a really good song for the first time *lazy saturdays *diet coke...AND french fries*
I love love love Emery. People always say that until you are a parent you'll never fully understand unconditional love.....well people were right. The best part of my day is in the morning when she first wakes up. She is so happy and we just smile and laugh at each other for awhile. I love being back in Greenville. I love our church and the fact that Benji actually gets paid to do what he loves.
In honor of all the loveliness in my life right now I've decided to post a list of all things loved by muah.... in no particular order, okay...
(so dont get all righteous on me if Jesus is on the list below mascara).
*emerys smile *vance licking my face *the way benjis eyes turn up when he smiles *sushi with girlfriends *my coffee pot.grinds the beans fresh every morning *sugar in the raw *natural peanut butter *mascara *shoes *maternity jeans *bravo tv marathons *season one of greys *mission trips to new countries *stamps in my passport *election years *lattes *black coffee *dry breve cappuccinos *irresistible grace *the sea shore *remembering summers on the lake *a good cheap manicure *the smell of my shampoo *sephora *reformation history *itunes gift cards *fridays with benji *sunday mornings *books *romans 8:28-31 *being a mama *benji cooking breakfast *fall mornings *old hymns *advil *san pellegrino *jesus' blood and righteousness *weddings *graduations *text messages *hoodies *the streets of buenos aires *hearing a really good song for the first time *lazy saturdays *diet coke...AND french fries*
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Happy Birthday Benji!
Today is Benji's birthday! Happy Birthday babe!
Emery gave Benji an early present by sleeping through the night!
I have read Baby Wise about six times since the ninth month of pregnancy. I was convinced that it would never work with us, but the past three nights Emery has slept from around 11pm until 730am! She'll be 10 weeks tomorrow, so she is right on schedule! Baby Wise says that between 8 and 12 weeks is when babies should start sleeping 6 to 8 hours a night.
I can not tell you how much this helps me. I'm the kind of girl that needs my sleep. I know, I know, everyone needs sleep. But seriously, I cried and cried the last month of being pregnant because I just knew that I would never sleep again.
Emery had her first round of immunizations this week. That was a sad day, but she did well, and seemed to have no reactions to the shots.
I have to say that I'm pretty sure I have the cutest, best baby in the world.
I'm getting used to this "stay at home" mom thing, and I'm starting to like it more and more. I was worried about that as well. I went from working full time in a very social environment, going to school full time and studying constantly, to basically staying in the house all day. It definitely took some getting used to, but I think Im really going to enjoy it!
The presidential debate was pretty annoying last night. They were like two little kids tattle telling on each other all night.
I still catch myself feeling guilty sometimes when I'm watching t.v, I feel like I should be studying something.... Here are some more pics that my friend took.
Pray for us that this whole sleeping through the night thing sticks!
Emery gave Benji an early present by sleeping through the night!
I have read Baby Wise about six times since the ninth month of pregnancy. I was convinced that it would never work with us, but the past three nights Emery has slept from around 11pm until 730am! She'll be 10 weeks tomorrow, so she is right on schedule! Baby Wise says that between 8 and 12 weeks is when babies should start sleeping 6 to 8 hours a night.
I can not tell you how much this helps me. I'm the kind of girl that needs my sleep. I know, I know, everyone needs sleep. But seriously, I cried and cried the last month of being pregnant because I just knew that I would never sleep again.
Emery had her first round of immunizations this week. That was a sad day, but she did well, and seemed to have no reactions to the shots.
I have to say that I'm pretty sure I have the cutest, best baby in the world.
I'm getting used to this "stay at home" mom thing, and I'm starting to like it more and more. I was worried about that as well. I went from working full time in a very social environment, going to school full time and studying constantly, to basically staying in the house all day. It definitely took some getting used to, but I think Im really going to enjoy it!
The presidential debate was pretty annoying last night. They were like two little kids tattle telling on each other all night.
I still catch myself feeling guilty sometimes when I'm watching t.v, I feel like I should be studying something.... Here are some more pics that my friend took.
Pray for us that this whole sleeping through the night thing sticks!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Life Is "Normal"
Life in the Ladd family is finally getting back to normal.
Whatever normal means.
We are settling into our new apartment in Greenville. Our second new apartment, but we won't get into that.
We have a contract on our condo in da ville finally! this is a huge blessing. Now we can breathe easier and take our time finding a house that is perfect for us.
Vance is finally back at home where he belongs. He stayed with me with my mom while I was living in Gainesville for a month, but I had to leave him there while we figured out what we were going to do in Greenville, I lived about 2 weeks here without him and that was two weeks to long.
Benji was ordained on Sunday. It was such a special time in our lives. Our families came to support Benji and we had a great time celebrating God's call on our lives.
We love our new church home. We are having a blast getting to know the youth and all the families in the church. We have been so blessed to be able to work along side of of so many wonderful people at Brushy Creek.
Here are some more of the pictures that we had taken by a special friend that I met through working at da bux. She is an amazing photographer, whom God uses in so many different ways....
Whatever normal means.
We are settling into our new apartment in Greenville. Our second new apartment, but we won't get into that.
We have a contract on our condo in da ville finally! this is a huge blessing. Now we can breathe easier and take our time finding a house that is perfect for us.
Vance is finally back at home where he belongs. He stayed with me with my mom while I was living in Gainesville for a month, but I had to leave him there while we figured out what we were going to do in Greenville, I lived about 2 weeks here without him and that was two weeks to long.
Benji was ordained on Sunday. It was such a special time in our lives. Our families came to support Benji and we had a great time celebrating God's call on our lives.
We love our new church home. We are having a blast getting to know the youth and all the families in the church. We have been so blessed to be able to work along side of of so many wonderful people at Brushy Creek.
Here are some more of the pictures that we had taken by a special friend that I met through working at da bux. She is an amazing photographer, whom God uses in so many different ways....
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Big Girl Emery
Here are some pictures of Emery around five and six weeks. We can't believe she is getting so big! She met her great grandmother and great grandpapa for the first time and it was a precious time.
We are still in Gainesville, but are hoping that next weekend we will be headed up to Greenville to be with Benji. Please pray that our condo sells soon! Enjoy the pics.
We are still in Gainesville, but are hoping that next weekend we will be headed up to Greenville to be with Benji. Please pray that our condo sells soon! Enjoy the pics.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Fo Real!
Obviously my hero is Palin. I'll vote for McCain just so she can be V.P.
But I have always argued that Obama "isn't Muslim..."
I still believe he isn't, but this is just, well you just have to watch.....
But I have always argued that Obama "isn't Muslim..."
I still believe he isn't, but this is just, well you just have to watch.....
Monday, September 8, 2008
It Could Be China
I keep telling my self that this time in my life could be worse.
It could be China. Seriously.
The past two weeks have been bitter sweet. It has been great being able to be with my mom. She has helped me so much and I'm glad that she has gotten to spend time with us, but time here is time away from Benji. It has been so sad for me to think of the time that Benji has lost with Emery. She is changing every day and growing so fast.
Hopefully in the next few weeks we will be able to find a furnished apartment in Greenville and finally be a family again.
I had my six week check up today.
Breastfeeding is not as natural as everyone says it is.
All babies are not born knowing exactly what to do. Not every woman can do it. I have a prolactin deficiency which is the hormone responsible for producing milk. I tried for a month, and made about a half of an ounce per breast.....Emery was eating 4 ounces at about two and 1/2 weeks....that's per feeding.
Do the math. Breastfeeding for me meant I had one hungry and unhappy baby. Add on top of the lack of milk a baby with a "suck that could take the paint off the walls"(which was a direct quote from my lactation consultant).
I did everything I could for a month. I saw a lactation consultant seven times in three weeks. I took the Chinese herb fenugreek, two capsules four times a day. I took reglan, a medicine prescribed for reflux but also used to help increase prolactin levels, three times a day for 14 days. I pumped and fed every 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours, then every 3 hours....
I heard people say, "breastfeeding is natural, I mean women in Africa don't have formula....."
Well that's why babies die in Africa.
That's my spill. I'm still emotional about it. So don't ask how it's going. And don't ask other new mothers how breastfeeding is going. It's none of any ones business and it is a very touchy subject for mothers who can't.
Emery is gaining weight and she is beautiful. And we love each other. Which is what matters.
Besides, I was formula fed and I'm brilliant.
Benji's new job is awesome. He LOVES it. He has a real office too. I'm so excited to get to Greenville and start hanging out with the youth.
I started Weight Watchers this week. Again. For the 3rd time. Last time I did it, about four years ago I lost 20lbs. This time I need to loose....oh, about 40lbs.
I am stinkin excited about McCain/Palin. I'm pretty sure Palin is my hero.
Can't wait for the new T.V. season to start. You know you all are excited too. House, Greys, Biggest Loser, and Dancing With The Stars......
I've never watched dancing with the stars, but this season I will because of Rocco Dispirito.
And okay, Kim Kardashian.
Well, I think I've covered every major topic that's been running through my head. I have to condense it all and post it all at once. Newborns take a lot of time.
It could be China. Seriously.
The past two weeks have been bitter sweet. It has been great being able to be with my mom. She has helped me so much and I'm glad that she has gotten to spend time with us, but time here is time away from Benji. It has been so sad for me to think of the time that Benji has lost with Emery. She is changing every day and growing so fast.
Hopefully in the next few weeks we will be able to find a furnished apartment in Greenville and finally be a family again.
I had my six week check up today.
Breastfeeding is not as natural as everyone says it is.
All babies are not born knowing exactly what to do. Not every woman can do it. I have a prolactin deficiency which is the hormone responsible for producing milk. I tried for a month, and made about a half of an ounce per breast.....Emery was eating 4 ounces at about two and 1/2 weeks....that's per feeding.
Do the math. Breastfeeding for me meant I had one hungry and unhappy baby. Add on top of the lack of milk a baby with a "suck that could take the paint off the walls"(which was a direct quote from my lactation consultant).
I did everything I could for a month. I saw a lactation consultant seven times in three weeks. I took the Chinese herb fenugreek, two capsules four times a day. I took reglan, a medicine prescribed for reflux but also used to help increase prolactin levels, three times a day for 14 days. I pumped and fed every 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours, then every 3 hours....
I heard people say, "breastfeeding is natural, I mean women in Africa don't have formula....."
Well that's why babies die in Africa.
That's my spill. I'm still emotional about it. So don't ask how it's going. And don't ask other new mothers how breastfeeding is going. It's none of any ones business and it is a very touchy subject for mothers who can't.
Emery is gaining weight and she is beautiful. And we love each other. Which is what matters.
Besides, I was formula fed and I'm brilliant.
Benji's new job is awesome. He LOVES it. He has a real office too. I'm so excited to get to Greenville and start hanging out with the youth.
I started Weight Watchers this week. Again. For the 3rd time. Last time I did it, about four years ago I lost 20lbs. This time I need to loose....oh, about 40lbs.
I am stinkin excited about McCain/Palin. I'm pretty sure Palin is my hero.
Can't wait for the new T.V. season to start. You know you all are excited too. House, Greys, Biggest Loser, and Dancing With The Stars......
I've never watched dancing with the stars, but this season I will because of Rocco Dispirito.
And okay, Kim Kardashian.
Well, I think I've covered every major topic that's been running through my head. I have to condense it all and post it all at once. Newborns take a lot of time.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Life Matters
So when I heard the news about who McCain had chosen for his running mate I was immediately reminded of reading an article about Gov. Palin awhile back on Dr. Mohler's blog. I've cut and pasted it here for you. It is definitely worth the read. If you don't frequent Dr. Mohler's blog, you should. You can find the link in my blog roll to the left of my page.
I believe that Palin is a brilliant choice for more reasons than one.
Plus she is a lifetime member of the NRA. Which should make my husband happy.
Which also means she'd never accidentally shoot her friend with a pellet gun on a duck hunt....
A little boy with an extra chromosome was born on April 18. His name is Trig Paxson Van Palin and his new home is the Alaska Governor's Mansion in Juneau. His mom is Governor Sarah Palin, who along with her husband Todd, has welcomed Trig as their second son and fifth child.
Governor Palin has already made a mark on the political scene. A high school basketball star and beauty queen, she was elected Alaska's governor in 2006. She is often mentioned as a potential running mate for Sen. John McCain. The Palins' other children include Track, their oldest son, who now serves in the U.S. Army. They also have three daughters, Bristol, Willow, and Piper.
Trig made news long before he was born, as Alaska's citizens learned that their governor was pregnant. Then, for the Palins, the story got more complicated.
This past December, Sarah Palin was told that her baby was likely to have Down syndrome -- just one extra chromosome.
As the Associated Press reports:
The doctor's announcement in December, when Palin was four months pregnant, presented her with a possible life- and career-changing development.
"I've never had problems with my other pregnancies, so I was shocked," said Palin.
"It took a while to open up the book that the doctor gave me about children with Down syndrome, and a while to log on to the Web site and start reading facts about the situation."
When he was told, Todd Palin quickly said, "We shouldn't be asking, 'Why us?' We should be saying, 'Well, why not us?'"
The Palins never considered aborting the baby. That means that Trig Palin is now is a very rare group of very special children, because it is now believed that the vast majority of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome before birth are being aborted.
Modern diagnostic tests are driving a "search and destroy mission" to eliminate babies judged to be inferior, disabled, or deformed. Some experts now believe that up to 90 percent of all pregnancies diagnosed as having a likelihood of Down syndrome end in abortion.
Back in 2005, ethicist George Neumayr commented: "Each year in America fewer and fewer disabled infants are born. The reason is eugenic abortion. Doctors and their patients use prenatal technology to screen unborn children for disabilities, then they use that information to abort a high percentage of them. Without much scrutiny or debate, a eugenics designed to weed out the disabled has become commonplace."
The Palins would not even consider aborting their baby. "We've both been very vocal about being pro-life," Governor Palin said. "We understand that every innocent life has wonderful potential."
She loves her baby boy and is proud of him. "I'm looking at him right now, and I see perfection," Palin told the Associated Press. "Yeah, he has an extra chromosome. I keep thinking, in our world, what is normal and what is perfect?"
Some ethicists now go so far as to argue for a "duty" to abort a baby with a Down diagnosis. This is an assault upon the dignity of every human being. The fact that so few Down syndrome babies now make it to birth is a sign that America is making its own pact with the Culture of Death.
Trig Paxson Van Palin has an extra chromosome, two proud and loving parents, four very happy siblings, and he will bring his own joy to untold numbers of lives.
He will face some unique challenges, but he has a loving family who will face those with him. They will learn together the wonder and beauty of a Down syndrome child and will learn to see the glory of God in his trusting face.
Mothers Day 2008 is certain to be a special day in the Alaska Governor's Mansion. What an unspeakable tragedy that so many other homes will have aborted that joy.
Welcome to the world, Trig Paxson Van Palin. Your very existence defies the Culture of Death and gives us all hope._____________________
I believe that Palin is a brilliant choice for more reasons than one.
Plus she is a lifetime member of the NRA. Which should make my husband happy.
Which also means she'd never accidentally shoot her friend with a pellet gun on a duck hunt....
A little boy with an extra chromosome was born on April 18. His name is Trig Paxson Van Palin and his new home is the Alaska Governor's Mansion in Juneau. His mom is Governor Sarah Palin, who along with her husband Todd, has welcomed Trig as their second son and fifth child.
Governor Palin has already made a mark on the political scene. A high school basketball star and beauty queen, she was elected Alaska's governor in 2006. She is often mentioned as a potential running mate for Sen. John McCain. The Palins' other children include Track, their oldest son, who now serves in the U.S. Army. They also have three daughters, Bristol, Willow, and Piper.
Trig made news long before he was born, as Alaska's citizens learned that their governor was pregnant. Then, for the Palins, the story got more complicated.
This past December, Sarah Palin was told that her baby was likely to have Down syndrome -- just one extra chromosome.
As the Associated Press reports:
The doctor's announcement in December, when Palin was four months pregnant, presented her with a possible life- and career-changing development.
"I've never had problems with my other pregnancies, so I was shocked," said Palin.
"It took a while to open up the book that the doctor gave me about children with Down syndrome, and a while to log on to the Web site and start reading facts about the situation."
When he was told, Todd Palin quickly said, "We shouldn't be asking, 'Why us?' We should be saying, 'Well, why not us?'"
The Palins never considered aborting the baby. That means that Trig Palin is now is a very rare group of very special children, because it is now believed that the vast majority of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome before birth are being aborted.
Modern diagnostic tests are driving a "search and destroy mission" to eliminate babies judged to be inferior, disabled, or deformed. Some experts now believe that up to 90 percent of all pregnancies diagnosed as having a likelihood of Down syndrome end in abortion.
Back in 2005, ethicist George Neumayr commented: "Each year in America fewer and fewer disabled infants are born. The reason is eugenic abortion. Doctors and their patients use prenatal technology to screen unborn children for disabilities, then they use that information to abort a high percentage of them. Without much scrutiny or debate, a eugenics designed to weed out the disabled has become commonplace."
The Palins would not even consider aborting their baby. "We've both been very vocal about being pro-life," Governor Palin said. "We understand that every innocent life has wonderful potential."
She loves her baby boy and is proud of him. "I'm looking at him right now, and I see perfection," Palin told the Associated Press. "Yeah, he has an extra chromosome. I keep thinking, in our world, what is normal and what is perfect?"
Some ethicists now go so far as to argue for a "duty" to abort a baby with a Down diagnosis. This is an assault upon the dignity of every human being. The fact that so few Down syndrome babies now make it to birth is a sign that America is making its own pact with the Culture of Death.
Trig Paxson Van Palin has an extra chromosome, two proud and loving parents, four very happy siblings, and he will bring his own joy to untold numbers of lives.
He will face some unique challenges, but he has a loving family who will face those with him. They will learn together the wonder and beauty of a Down syndrome child and will learn to see the glory of God in his trusting face.
Mothers Day 2008 is certain to be a special day in the Alaska Governor's Mansion. What an unspeakable tragedy that so many other homes will have aborted that joy.
Welcome to the world, Trig Paxson Van Palin. Your very existence defies the Culture of Death and gives us all hope._____________________
Sunday, August 17, 2008
August 4, 2001
With all the comotion of coming home on August 4th with Emery, I forgot to mention that it was our 7th anniversary.
What a great gift we gave each other this year!
We have had an amazing time together in seven years. We have traveled the world, explored new cities, studied our brains out! Moved three times, and have just had a blast being each others constant companions and best friends.
We've had an amazing seven years, but I know the best are yet to come.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Life as I know it
Emery is cute. I aint gonna lie. but sometimes her cuteness is overshadowed by her dramatic grumpy old man-ness.....
This is the grumpy old man face we see about 100 times a day. Usually comes out when she's wet, poopy, hungry or just needing some attention. The early makings of a diva I'm sure.
Life as I know it has changed. The past 16 days have been the hardest most overwhelming days of my life.
I've had major surgery. I've had NO sleep. And the WORST constipation of my life. They forget to tell you that the wonder drug percoset that quiets all your pain also slows your bowels down to a stopping point....
Emery is able to "suck the paint off the walls"...a direct quote from the lactation consultant I've seen five times in 2 weeks. Unfortunately for me that means the part of my anatomy that is her food source looked like they'd been through a meat grinder. So I'm investing in a breast pump.
Did I mention we are moving in 15 days.
Yeah. 15.
And not just down the road. I mean MOVING.
Packing up boxes and listing our condo hasn't been so easy with a newborn who NEEDS to be held during the day to sleep. And must eat every 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours.
I wonder if Starbucks wants me back?
This is the grumpy old man face we see about 100 times a day. Usually comes out when she's wet, poopy, hungry or just needing some attention. The early makings of a diva I'm sure.
Life as I know it has changed. The past 16 days have been the hardest most overwhelming days of my life.
I've had major surgery. I've had NO sleep. And the WORST constipation of my life. They forget to tell you that the wonder drug percoset that quiets all your pain also slows your bowels down to a stopping point....
Emery is able to "suck the paint off the walls"...a direct quote from the lactation consultant I've seen five times in 2 weeks. Unfortunately for me that means the part of my anatomy that is her food source looked like they'd been through a meat grinder. So I'm investing in a breast pump.
Did I mention we are moving in 15 days.
Yeah. 15.
And not just down the road. I mean MOVING.
Packing up boxes and listing our condo hasn't been so easy with a newborn who NEEDS to be held during the day to sleep. And must eat every 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours.
I wonder if Starbucks wants me back?
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Emery Update
We are going home on Monday!
Emery has been off of all oxygen, antibiotics and I.V. for 48 hours. They are just monitoring her until tomorrow and then we are headed home! Since she was on I.V. fluids and antibiotics she did not get to start feeding until late Friday afternoon. She was taking formula because they wanted to make sure her sugar levels were good. Today (Sunday) we will begin breastfeeding.
It's been a long week, but we are so thankful for all the prayers and concern.
We are also so thankful for Baptist East and for Women's First. My Dr's intuition along with the providence of God saved Emery's life.
For those of you who haven't heard, I went in on Wednesday for my weekly visit. I mentioned to the Nurse Practitioner that I "just didn't feel well" that day. She decided that since I was so far along that it would be best to do a NST, (non stress test) on Emery to see if everything was okay.
The NST came back "inconclusive" meaning that they didn't see anything that was alarming, but they did not see the things they like to see that would be reassuring that everything was alright.
They decided that it would be best if they did an ultrasound to look at some specific things. They looked at Emery's heart rate, her reflexes, practice breathing and her reaction to sound, they also looked at the placenta. Everything by ultrasound standards looked good, but my doctor still thought I should go to labor and delivery to have a stronger NST test done.
The NST test measures the amount of variability in Emery's heart rate. Her heart rate was normal, but it was not responding to stress by going up or down, which is what healthy babies do. Her heart rate was just staying at a normal rate. So she decided that the best thing to do would be to induce labor since I was so close to my due date. She felt very uncomfortable sending me home, even though everything could be okay she didn't want to risk it not being.
We started with a medicine that would dilate my cervix so that they could then give me the medicine to start contractions. The cervix dilation takes 12 hours so we were ready to hang out for the night and expected for labor to start in the morning.
After 4 hours on the medication my Dr. decided that Emery's heart rate was still not fluctuating enough for her to be comfortable with me going through labor. So about 1 a.m she told us we would be delivering by C-section within the hour. At 2:39 Emery was here.
Every thing seemed normal when she was born. She had a lot of fluid in her lungs, which is common in C- section babies. They took her to the nursery with Benji trailing behind. My mom and sister had arrived and were there to watch her through the window. Apparently while they were watching them do standard testing Emery went into respiratory distress. They rushed her into the back to the special care unit. They put her on oxygen and began to try and find out what was wrong. Throughout the testing we found that she was anemic, had a slight heart murmur and low oxygen levels.
They ran a number of blood test to see why her red blood cell count was so low and found out that my placenta had partially abrupted at some point which led to Emery loosing her blood for an unknown amount of time while still in the womb.
This loss of blood is what resulted in her anemia. We were relieved in a sense to know that since this was the problem her red blood cell count would not continue to drop. But it was scary to know that all this took place without us knowing.
She would have not survived a vaginal delivery. We are trying hard not to think about all the "what ifs". God is so good! Emery is going to be completely fine and have no lasting problems from the anemia and low oxygen levels. The low oxygen levels were a result of fluid in her lungs, and from the low red blood cells. The fluid was a result of the c- section, because vaginal births usually help push out the fluid during delivery. The heart murmur was also something that occurs occasionally in c-sec. babies. All babies in the womb have a slight murmur that closes with birth. They tested Emery again the next couple of days and the murmur had disappeared. She was on antibiotics as just a precaution but all the test came back normal showing no infection.
I am doing great. I am just so thankful that my precious baby is healthy. She is perfect of course and the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. We have many more pictures that will be showing up soon.
Thanks again for all the prayers. Please continue to lift us up as we start the process of heading home. We can't wait for everyone to meet her!
Benji, Kristi and Emery.
Emery has been off of all oxygen, antibiotics and I.V. for 48 hours. They are just monitoring her until tomorrow and then we are headed home! Since she was on I.V. fluids and antibiotics she did not get to start feeding until late Friday afternoon. She was taking formula because they wanted to make sure her sugar levels were good. Today (Sunday) we will begin breastfeeding.
It's been a long week, but we are so thankful for all the prayers and concern.
We are also so thankful for Baptist East and for Women's First. My Dr's intuition along with the providence of God saved Emery's life.
For those of you who haven't heard, I went in on Wednesday for my weekly visit. I mentioned to the Nurse Practitioner that I "just didn't feel well" that day. She decided that since I was so far along that it would be best to do a NST, (non stress test) on Emery to see if everything was okay.
The NST came back "inconclusive" meaning that they didn't see anything that was alarming, but they did not see the things they like to see that would be reassuring that everything was alright.
They decided that it would be best if they did an ultrasound to look at some specific things. They looked at Emery's heart rate, her reflexes, practice breathing and her reaction to sound, they also looked at the placenta. Everything by ultrasound standards looked good, but my doctor still thought I should go to labor and delivery to have a stronger NST test done.
The NST test measures the amount of variability in Emery's heart rate. Her heart rate was normal, but it was not responding to stress by going up or down, which is what healthy babies do. Her heart rate was just staying at a normal rate. So she decided that the best thing to do would be to induce labor since I was so close to my due date. She felt very uncomfortable sending me home, even though everything could be okay she didn't want to risk it not being.
We started with a medicine that would dilate my cervix so that they could then give me the medicine to start contractions. The cervix dilation takes 12 hours so we were ready to hang out for the night and expected for labor to start in the morning.
After 4 hours on the medication my Dr. decided that Emery's heart rate was still not fluctuating enough for her to be comfortable with me going through labor. So about 1 a.m she told us we would be delivering by C-section within the hour. At 2:39 Emery was here.
Every thing seemed normal when she was born. She had a lot of fluid in her lungs, which is common in C- section babies. They took her to the nursery with Benji trailing behind. My mom and sister had arrived and were there to watch her through the window. Apparently while they were watching them do standard testing Emery went into respiratory distress. They rushed her into the back to the special care unit. They put her on oxygen and began to try and find out what was wrong. Throughout the testing we found that she was anemic, had a slight heart murmur and low oxygen levels.
They ran a number of blood test to see why her red blood cell count was so low and found out that my placenta had partially abrupted at some point which led to Emery loosing her blood for an unknown amount of time while still in the womb.
This loss of blood is what resulted in her anemia. We were relieved in a sense to know that since this was the problem her red blood cell count would not continue to drop. But it was scary to know that all this took place without us knowing.
She would have not survived a vaginal delivery. We are trying hard not to think about all the "what ifs". God is so good! Emery is going to be completely fine and have no lasting problems from the anemia and low oxygen levels. The low oxygen levels were a result of fluid in her lungs, and from the low red blood cells. The fluid was a result of the c- section, because vaginal births usually help push out the fluid during delivery. The heart murmur was also something that occurs occasionally in c-sec. babies. All babies in the womb have a slight murmur that closes with birth. They tested Emery again the next couple of days and the murmur had disappeared. She was on antibiotics as just a precaution but all the test came back normal showing no infection.
I am doing great. I am just so thankful that my precious baby is healthy. She is perfect of course and the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. We have many more pictures that will be showing up soon.
Thanks again for all the prayers. Please continue to lift us up as we start the process of heading home. We can't wait for everyone to meet her!
Benji, Kristi and Emery.
Friday, August 1, 2008
No More Tubes!
Emery is going to be fine, but we did have some scares in the beginning. God is good and faithful. I will post more of the story later, but until then i know you all could not wait to see more pictures of the cutest baby in the world.
Please continue to pray for us and for Emery. Pray that God heals mom and baby completely.
Love to you all. Kristi, Benji and Emery.
Please continue to pray for us and for Emery. Pray that God heals mom and baby completely.
Love to you all. Kristi, Benji and Emery.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
My Babe is havin a baby!!
How funny is this. Here we sit in the hospital, computer in tow (you know you have to stay connected now days), waitin on Little "E" to come out. We went to our last regularly scheduled Dr. appointment at 11:15am this morning and have ended in labor and delivery. It is a long story with something about Emery's heart rate not being ideal. They have assured us that noting is wrong and that she is fine they just want her out sooner rather than later. So we wait....it is now 10:30pm. Kristi has not been allowed to eat since we got here becaue they are concerned that might cause problems if she has to have a c-section. She last ate a 10:00am:( She is handling it all much better than I would if hadn't been able to eat in 12 hrs. Oh well, that is where we are. We would covet any and all prayers over the next couple of days.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
One Day Your In...The Next Day You Are Out.
We had a running tally of how much Emery might weigh.
Italicized names are out. Bold names are still in the running.
If you are out, don't be upset, Benji and I didn't even make the cut.
Benji- 8.2
Kristi- 8.0
Maxey(Benji's dad)- 6.5
Sue(Benji's mom)- 7.11
Shannon(Benji's bro)- 7.5
Neysa(Sis in law)- 8.6
Lydia(Niece)- 10.11
Cindy(My mom)- 8.14
Kathi(My sis)- 8.12
Kenny(Bro in law)- 9.4
Dana(friend)- 8.4
Grandma- 8.8
Casey- 7.9
Italicized names are out. Bold names are still in the running.
If you are out, don't be upset, Benji and I didn't even make the cut.
Benji- 8.2
Kristi- 8.0
Maxey(Benji's dad)- 6.5
Sue(Benji's mom)- 7.11
Shannon(Benji's bro)- 7.5
Neysa(Sis in law)- 8.6
Lydia(Niece)- 10.11
Cindy(My mom)- 8.14
Kathi(My sis)- 8.12
Kenny(Bro in law)- 9.4
Dana(friend)- 8.4
Grandma- 8.8
Casey- 7.9
We Don't Make No Sissy Babies!
So 10 days left.
Still waiting. I am really enjoying my time off from work. I miss all my friends, and all the free lattes, but it is good to be able to take a nap when I need to.
And to catch up on Project Runway and Flipping Out. I'm getting my "toes done" today, (which is what we Georgia girls call a pedicure). Hopefully this will be the last time I have to get them done before Emery arrives.
I don't want to have to stare at ugly toes while I'm pushing......
We went to the Dr. yesterday, again, I am 50% effaced or thinned out. Which means about as much as it sounds that it means, nothing. But at least I'm heading in the right direction. The Dr. finally said what I've been saying this whole time, that this girl is big.
She decided "just for kicks" (her words) to do an ultrasound to see how big Ms. Emery actually is.
Well measuring weight with ultrasounds is a tricky process I've been told. They can usually be off by a pound either way. But since my Emery is perfect in every way, she allowed the technician to measure her in all the right spots.
So the ultrasound tech said that she was pretty sure her measurements were accurate.
As of today Emery is weighing in at 8lbs 3 oz. Seriously.
She could technically stay put for 2 more weeks, which would add on about another lb. (Babies gain about a 1/2 lb a week in the last weeks).
Needless to say, Benji and I don't make no sissy babies......
She is gonna be a chunk.
I'm pretty sure she is crushing my rib cage. Which could possibly puncture my heart, which would explain why the blood doesn't reach my head when I lay down......
She better come out soon.
Still waiting. I am really enjoying my time off from work. I miss all my friends, and all the free lattes, but it is good to be able to take a nap when I need to.
And to catch up on Project Runway and Flipping Out. I'm getting my "toes done" today, (which is what we Georgia girls call a pedicure). Hopefully this will be the last time I have to get them done before Emery arrives.
I don't want to have to stare at ugly toes while I'm pushing......
We went to the Dr. yesterday, again, I am 50% effaced or thinned out. Which means about as much as it sounds that it means, nothing. But at least I'm heading in the right direction. The Dr. finally said what I've been saying this whole time, that this girl is big.
She decided "just for kicks" (her words) to do an ultrasound to see how big Ms. Emery actually is.
Well measuring weight with ultrasounds is a tricky process I've been told. They can usually be off by a pound either way. But since my Emery is perfect in every way, she allowed the technician to measure her in all the right spots.
So the ultrasound tech said that she was pretty sure her measurements were accurate.
As of today Emery is weighing in at 8lbs 3 oz. Seriously.
She could technically stay put for 2 more weeks, which would add on about another lb. (Babies gain about a 1/2 lb a week in the last weeks).
Needless to say, Benji and I don't make no sissy babies......
She is gonna be a chunk.
I'm pretty sure she is crushing my rib cage. Which could possibly puncture my heart, which would explain why the blood doesn't reach my head when I lay down......
She better come out soon.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
17 days
We are 2 and 1/2 weeks away from Emery's due date. I have officially given up on trying to focus on anything but daydreaming about this baby. I go from anxious to excited, back to anxious about a 1,000 times a day.
I'm lucky if I sleep four hours a night. A woman's body totally gets you ready to have a screaming baby up all night, because I've been up all night for the past 3 days....
Why you ask? Because I am confident that this baby is 50 lbs. and lying down (in any position) seems to cut the blood flow off from my head. Seriously, I will finally get comfortable, doze off, then awaken suddenly to dizziness and seeing spots. So I turn over to the opposite side, and repeat....and it's like that the entire night.
Just a few short weeks ago I was all like " I don't want any medication for pain or to speed up delivery..."
Now I am so exhausted I just want this child out of my body. Into the pack in play next to me. And I would like for it happen as fast and as painless as possible.
We went to the Dr. again yesterday. Her head has dropped even farther since the last visit, which made for a much more painful exam than last week! Emery's heartbeat sounded faster than usual and the Dr. said it was because she probably startled her when she felt her head! I wasn't dilated any, which was kind of disappointing, but the Dr. did say that my cervix is very thin.
I also met with the pediatrician this week. I like them and think they will be a good fit for us.
My Starbucks is not closing. Which is good, it would have been sad. My last day is Saturday and I am so ready.
But now I must go, because I do have to work today!
Back to waiting and daydreaming.
I'm lucky if I sleep four hours a night. A woman's body totally gets you ready to have a screaming baby up all night, because I've been up all night for the past 3 days....
Why you ask? Because I am confident that this baby is 50 lbs. and lying down (in any position) seems to cut the blood flow off from my head. Seriously, I will finally get comfortable, doze off, then awaken suddenly to dizziness and seeing spots. So I turn over to the opposite side, and repeat....and it's like that the entire night.
Just a few short weeks ago I was all like " I don't want any medication for pain or to speed up delivery..."
Now I am so exhausted I just want this child out of my body. Into the pack in play next to me. And I would like for it happen as fast and as painless as possible.
We went to the Dr. again yesterday. Her head has dropped even farther since the last visit, which made for a much more painful exam than last week! Emery's heartbeat sounded faster than usual and the Dr. said it was because she probably startled her when she felt her head! I wasn't dilated any, which was kind of disappointing, but the Dr. did say that my cervix is very thin.
I also met with the pediatrician this week. I like them and think they will be a good fit for us.
My Starbucks is not closing. Which is good, it would have been sad. My last day is Saturday and I am so ready.
But now I must go, because I do have to work today!
Back to waiting and daydreaming.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Why I Love Louisville
Today I had to do something I have been dreading for weeks. I finally went to get my drivers license renewed. Many of you know that in Georgia and in South Carolina, (the two states I lived in before Kentucky) this is an all day event. In Ga and SC you literally have to take the entire day to stand in line and beg to be helped.
Now when we moved here 4 years ago we planned to spend the whole day doing all the car and license stuff that is necessary to live in a new state. I remember vaguely that it was not as painful as we had thought.
But today I was reminded again of one of the many reasons why I stinkin love Louisville.
On my list of 50,000 things to do before Emery arrives, getting my drivers license renewed was one that was really stressing me out. So I decided today after my Dr. appt. I would stop by the drivers license place....I arrived at approximately 1:40pm..... at 1:55pm I was sitting in my car admiring my pleasantly plump face in the picture on my renewed drivers license! 15 minutes. Seriously. Why I love Louisville.
In other news, we had a good check up today. Emery is indeed presenting head down, ready for delivery. I was already aware of her position because I can feel her fat butt up in my ribs! My Doctor estimated that she already weighs 6 and 1/2 to 7lbs. With about 4 weeks to go I think I will probably be winning the bet with the guess that she will come out at 8lbs even!
I'm not dilated or effaced any yet, but will continue to be checked every week until the due date. My strep test also came back negative, which is good.
Benji's class is over tomorrow. Then he will just have....oh, 5 papers to write for the class and then he will be officially done with seminary!
No word on the fate of my Starbucks yet, but we will know by Friday either way.
All is good for now, we are just waiting on Emery!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Romans 8:28
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Life has a crazy way of, well....being crazy!
I'm 4 weeks away from my due date.
I feel like Emery is literally 20lbs and will come any day.
I start going to the Dr. every week this week.
Benji starts taking his LAST class tomorrow, so hopefully she will hold off for a week.
Benji is still looking for a job.
We will have to sell our house, fast, when he finds this illusive job.
My Starbucks may be closing.... we won't know until this Friday. Not really sure how this will affect my maternity leave, but it does mean Benji has to have a job by October 6.
I am STILL working 30 hours a week. Making lattes doesn't seem like much physical labor...but when you are holding up 40 extra pounds, standing for hours at a time is not fun.
We have so much going on, but in the midst of all our craziness we are confident and secure in knowing that no matter what God is in control.
Romans 8:28-31 is the verse that we chose as Emery's life verse. A verse that we will be able to look to in guiding her and directing her path in life.
I painted the verse and have put in on the wall in her nursery. When I get overwhelmed with all that is going on, which has been many times lately, I sit in her room and read and re- read this verse.
We have been so blessed these past four years in Louisville. God has brought us through many trials, and still allowed us to complete our studies and has blessed us more than we deserve. With all that is beginning and ending in the next few months we realize that all the things are ultimately for our good and for the glory of God. We are looking forward to what the future holds.
Please pray for a healthy, fast and natural delivery, pray for Emery to be healthy and able to nurse properly! Please pray for God to provide Benji with a job that will be able to provide for our family and will allow him to serve the local church, proclaim the gospel and disciple believers.
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