Malachi and Ezekiel's Blog

Pumpkin Patch

2011-11-19T21:33:00.010-05:00

We visited Carrigan Farms' Pumpkin Patch in October. The boys enjoyed seeing the animals, drinking cider and picking out pumpkins We even met up with family to enjoy the day!

School Starts

2011-09-05T14:26:00.008-05:00

On Thursday, August 18, Ezekiel began his first day of school at FACS in K-4. He did great, of course, and has enjoyed being with others.

On Thursday, August 25, Malachi began his first day of school at C.A. Furr Elem. in 1st grade. He, also, did very well, but we have had some bumps in the road since then. He is a great child who struggles with the changes of life.

There is no picture of Malachi in the classroom because he walked into his class all by himself after getting out of the car!

Dear Malachi,

2011-07-09T22:07:00.003-05:00

Today, you finally turned 6 years old! I say finally because being in a public school, you barely missed the cut off for starting kindergarten last August. So, most of your friends have been 6 for at least 6 months, now. AND the fact that we had your birthday party a week early to try to get some of your school friends to make it. We knew going into it that you would be a "young one." At times, you were proving our fears right. At times, you proved us wrong :) You have always been a child who HATED change. You have also seemed to have developed strong "fears" that only come out at certain times. However, this past year was a HUGE success for you!

You survived kindergarten & kindergarten survived you. You started out the year crying and crying and not wanting to go to school. The AP at your school literally had to climb in my car and drag you out (only for a few days). Then, you gladly did it on your own and had a great attitude! You had so much change to deal with the first few months of school. Your little brother went into the ICU for the second week of school. One of your grandfathers passed away in September, and you had to miss a whole week of school to travel back to NC. Then in October, Z went back into the hospital for another week. You would think it wouldn't bother you too much, but, again, things were different, and you don't like change.

Around that time your teacher, Mrs. Pattie, went on extended maternity leave, and she was concerned that you would not be able to read or "get your act together." Mrs. Lam took over. When Mrs. Pattie returned, she was pleasantly surprised to see that you were doing well reading and had adjusted to kindergarten quite well! Your reading skills were right on target (average) for your class. You excelled in math and earned on level on most things. You were even Excellent in things like science and social studies! Your behavior was on green everyday minus about 3 days, for the whole 2 semester. You are sooooo smart! I mean it, because most kids can't fully "catch up" after being behind in reading skills. Trust me. I know. I taught middle schoolers who couldn't read much better than you :(

So, needless to say, you finished kindergarten on level and with great behavior! I think Florida might be a little advanced from other states, which might put you at the head of your class elsewhere :) Even if you are still just "on level," your dad and I are so proud of you! To be one of the youngest kids in your class and succeed like you did, it something truly amazing.

From Christmas until the 4th of July, you grew about a whole inch! Your body has gone through a great growth spurt in the past few months. I could tell by the way you looked, how short your shorts were getting, and how tight your shoes were getting. You wore the same pair of tennis shoes all school year! I let you throw them away the next-to-last day of school. You never complained about them hurting your feet until then, and there was no way those shoes would be worn by Z. You wore them out! I was so thankful! You also got to throw your Mario lunchbox and Lightning McQueen bookbag away after the last day of kindergarten. Those could not be re-used either! You got your money's worth out of those :)

It's still surreal to me that I will have a young man starting 1st grade in a month and a half. You don't want to go to 1st grade, though. It's not because you don't like school, because you LOVE it. It's because you don't like change and would like to do kindergarten over again :)

Sometimes I wonder about your fits that seem to come from deep-down fears. I don't know where the fears come from and why they are so intense, but I realize that we just have to work through it. You are an awesome kid! I wouldn't trade you in for anyone else, and I try hard not to compare you to your brother. You are smart, incredibly handsome, and a people-pleaser. I guess I can claim all of those traits as coming from me, but your dad has most of those traits, too.

One other bragging point that I have to bring up is how you were able to share about Jesus with your friends in public school. I know you were only 5, but for you to tell your friends that Easter was not about a bunny but about Jesus is amazing! There were other things, too. Your Daddy got to lead you in a prayer of salvation in the car, on the way home from school around Easter time. I'm so proud to know that you are a light in a dark world! Don't ever be ashamed of Jesus! He paid the ultimate price for you to live this abundant life.

I can't believe that you are 6! I can't believe that you "graduated" kindergarten. You are my firstborn child. I am so thankful that God blessed us with you! I love how you love going to church! I love how you are truly your Daddy's buddy and will still crawl up in his lap now. I can't wait to see what you and your dad can dream up to build with all those new legos!

I love you, Malachi James, with all my heart. You are a true gift from God! What a blessing you are to our family and to this earth!

-Your Momma

Cow Appreciaton Day at Chick-fil-A

2011-07-08T13:07:00.004-05:00

Today was Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-A. The boys got free kid's meals for their outfits. Daniel, Grammy, & I got a free entree (sandwich/salad) for wearing the iconic "Eat Mor Chikin" signs. It was fun!

The Back is Back

2011-07-05T14:41:00.003-05:00

A little over 2 weeks ago, on Father's Day, Daniel and I were rolling up and moving the inflatable slide that we used the day before for Malachi's birthday party. I'm a lot heavier than I used to be and should be and have been so stressed/tired that I haven't been very active lately. So, needless to say, I strained several back muscles. At first they were concerned about a herniated disc, but we found out a few days later that it was just muscles. It is the worst pain that I have ever experienced. Every time I moved, it hurt. At times, it was hard to walk or even get to the toilet. I'm thankful that my husband was around to take me to all the appointments. He said that he was "driving Ms. Daisy."

It hurt to sit up. The only thing that didn't hurt too much was laying on my back. Monday, I didn't do much and thought the pain would go away. When it didn't go away by Tuesday, Daniel took me to a chiropractor. He suggested I go to the doctor and get pain meds. That was the best suggestion of the week! So, after spending an hour at the chiro, we got lunch. I hurt too much to eat, so it was just the boys eating. Then, we went to the dr., who gave me 2 shots, one was for pain, the other a steroid to decrease the inflammation. I left with 3 prescriptions (vicotin for pain, prednisone steroid, and a muscle relaxer). I felt MUCH better after the 2 shots. We, then, went to the chiro, again, and let him do some more therapy on me. It still hurt a lot to sit up, but I was dramatically better.

Wednesday I went to the chiro for therapy and tried to rest and sleep (thanks to the meds). Still in a lot of pain. It was also our anniversary. We made it to Moe's for lunch, but that was still hard for me to sit through.

Thursday, I made it to the chiro, again, and this time he felt comfortable in adjusting me. It made me more sore, but it helped more in the long run. That evening I felt up to doing a "sit down" restaurant. So, we took our family of 4 to Texas Roadhouse.

Friday morning came, and I was feeling much better. Went for another adjustment and therapy at the chiro. I still had to ice my back and rest a lot, but I was feeling like I could move a little without pain. Friday evening I took the last dose of meds. Saturday morning, we decided that Daniel would go and be a counselor at the SC district kids' camp with our friends from Beaufort. So, it suddenly became busy. We had to start packing. We took the boys to see Cars 2 at 2pm. We had an hour drive to church at 5pm. After getting home from church, at around 7:15pm, Daniel cooked dinner and mowed the yard. We packed up a little bit and went to bed.

Sunday morning rolled around. We feverishly packed whatever we would need for the next 2 weeks. After driving to Beaufort that afternoon/evening, we stayed with our friends. Monday morning they headed out early to camp. The boys and I were on our way to NC for the next two weeks. I had 4 hours to drive on my own. My back was ok until the last hour when we got into Charlotte. When I had to keep moving my foot back and forth from the gas to the break, it caused a lot of pain in my lower back. Thankfully, the boys were well-behaved. I didn't make it to the chiro that day.

Tuesday afternoon, I painfully made it to our favorite chiro, Dr. Love. He was able to adjust me, and I began to feel TONS better. I went twice to Dr. Love on Wednesday and once on Thursday. Each visit, I felt better and better. Now, I am just trying to move carefully and not strain the muscles and ice my lower back several times a day. I'm thankful that I can move, again, without any pain. It took about 2 weeks, and I still need to ice it, but I am thankful for getting somewhat back to normal.

...and that I picked Daniel up on Friday, July 1st, to help me and be with me. I miss him when he's gone.

Hinson Great-Grandchildren

2011-07-02T16:39:00.008-05:00

Daniel's side of the family is a different H. It was nice to get some pictures of all 5 of them together today. In order from left to right, our boys (Ezekiel - 4 years & Malachi - 1 week shy of 6 years), Chris and Miranda's son (Bryson - 8 months), Nathan & Felicia's girls (Ivey - 2 years & Aubri - 4 years). Ezekiel is 2 weeks older than Aubri. So, they are definitely the closest in age.

Thanksgiving 2010 was the first picture of all the 5 grandkids together! From left to right, Ezekiel (3 years), Malachi (5 years), Bryson (3 weeks), Aubri (3 years), & Ivey (17 months).

Fun with Grammy

2011-07-02T16:28:00.005-05:00

The boys enjoyed making cookies with Grammy while Mommy iced her back and rested. I don't think the mix was that great, but they had a blast helping.

Later on the boys helped pick up sticks and take them out to the road. They got eaten up by mosquitoes in the process :-/

Reading with Grammy

2011-06-29T11:59:00.004-05:00

One of Malachi & Ezekiel's favorite thing to do while in NC is to have Grammy read books to them. Yesterday was no different. Usually they choose Berenstain Bear books (their Momma's favorites growing up), but since we took most of those books with us to Florida, they chose some Disney books from their Mom's and Uncle's childhood. I'm thankful for the break from reading Berenstain books and from reading them books in general, and Grammy eats it up!

June 19, 2011

2011-06-29T11:55:00.003-05:00

Malachi & Ezekiel showing off Malachi's birthday toys - Special Agent Oso & Iron Man plane

Malachi's Birthday Party

2011-06-28T16:07:00.005-05:00

For Malachi's 6th birthday we wanted a Lego birthday party with the water slide with his school friends. Since his birthday is in the middle of the summer, we decided to do it 3 weeks early to try to get some of his school friends to come. He ended up with 2 school friends, and 2 church friends. It was a blast! I know he wanted a few more friends to come, but he sure did have a great time and got plenty of Legos!!!

Spring Break at Myrtle Beach with Grammy & Grandpa

2011-06-28T16:01:00.004-05:00

It was still a little cold at the beach in late April/early May, but they have 2 indoor pools. It didn't deter the boys' love for swimming at all. They love that Grandpa will get in and play with them!

Palm Sunday/Easter

2011-06-28T15:53:00.003-05:00

At the Crossing Church in Brandon, Malachi enjoyed making a cross, and Ezekiel colored palm leaves for Palm Sunday Easter celebrations. Malachi went to his friends at his public school and told them that week that Easter was not about a bunny, but its about Jesus! So proud of that little dude! He loves church and shares his beliefs!!!

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2011-06-28T15:48:00.004-05:00

For Daniel's birthday, we went to opening night for the Tampa Yankees. The Yanks won, there were discounted tickets and drinks, while there, and fireworks right after the game. Fun was had by all :)

The boys' first airplane ride

2011-06-28T15:38:00.006-05:00

In March, we visited for an extended weekend in Houston, Texas. We thought they might be our new home and church, but God had other plans. We did, however, have the opportunity to take the boys on their first airplane ride and made a few friends out there. Our first flight out (of Tampa) got delayed, so the boys got to play in the airport play area. It was a nice way to get them excited.

Let's start with Z's birthday - Feb.21

2011-06-28T15:30:00.004-05:00

Since Ezekiel didn't have a lot of close friends, we invited a family to meet us at Chuck E. Cheese for a little time to play and celebrate. Daniel met me at school, after I got off work with the boys, and we went to celebrate. I made Z's Special Agent Oso cake. I know. I'm the next Ace of Cakes :) At least Z had a fun time turning 4. He did say, though, that he didn't get a whole lot of presents (since he only had 1 to actually open). We got him a bike, and he picked out a few things with birthday money :)

Family Pictures

2010-12-22T17:49:00.004-05:00

Today, our lovely sister-in-law took some family pictures for us. They turned out great! We were blessed to be able to spend almost 2 weeks in NC with family for Christmas. We were also blessed to spend lots of time with Josh, Erin and their 3 kids! They have been having a blast! Here is a teaser.

Back to "Normal"

2010-12-08T21:13:00.002-05:00

Well the last post was Z's first hospital visit. Since then, Daniel's step-dad suddenly passed away. Ezekiel stopped walking well. Z had a second hospital visit, and Daniel is now searching for another job. The latter hasn't been too publicized. I'll explain more on that after he gets another job.

Something happened, and Z can no longer run or walk correctly. His left leg has almost no muscle. His right leg is stronger than I've ever seen from a 3 year old. He had another severe asthma attack in October. We thought we were capable of keeping it away, but we weren't. Now, he gets allergy medicine everyday. He gets 2 medicines daily via nebulizer. If the coughing is more than just a little, we have another medicine to give him. So far, we've been able to keep the asthma under control since then.

Finances are super-tight, especially since we are living off of one salary. The doctor & hospital bills are piling up, but God is so good! We trust him completely. He is taking care of us, and the mountain tops will come.

The madness that was the the HOSPITAL

2010-09-12T18:38:00.009-05:00

Two weekends ago, Malachi started to feel bad and was getting a cold. Ezekiel got the cold the next day, then Daddy, then me. When Z gets a cold, his asthma flares; so we start to do breathing treatments to try to keep it under control. This was only the 2nd time that he had been sick since his surgery in April. The firs time, we were able to keep it under control with about 2 days of strict treatments. This time didn't seem any different. On Monday (2nd week of school), I took Malachi to school (since he didn't have a fever), and Daniel and Z stayed home b/c they were both pretty puny from the colds. They both were able to rest ad seemed a little better. Tuesday morning, Malachi had a dentist appointment to take care of 2 fillings (of the 5 cavities). Since I had already planned to be late for work, I decided I would take Z and then take him to the doc after the dentist visit for Malachi. We left the dentist at about 9:30am. Z wasn't feeling well and having a more difficult time breathing than a few min. before, but I thought he would be ok for about 30 minutes. I drove Malachi to school. When I took Malachi into the school office, Z was really pale and threw up in the office. He had been screaming in the car. It was about 10 more min. to the doc.

When we got there, I paid my money and asked if he could be taken to a room for a breathing treatment. He had been asking for one, and I knew he was due soon.As soon as she saw him, she rushed him back to the room and was starting to fuss at me for waiting so long. Really, woman, he hadn't been like that for long, and he'd never gotten pale like that before with an asthma attack. They pulled his doc out of the room that he was working in. They ordered him a breathing treatment quickly and called for an ambulance! I wasn't sure that they were really doing that until the paramedics showed up. His blood oxygen level had dropped to the low 80s. It's supposed to be 98-100. 95 is ok for a child having an asthma attack. Low 80s are not!So, Z and I got our first ambulance ride! Found out later, it was the first time the dr. office had to call for an ambulance, too.

Anywhoo, they didn't turn on the lights or siren, but we were heading to the ER with oxygen running into Z to keep him stable. If he didn't have a treatment or oxygen running his blood-ox level would immediately drop. I called Daniel and my work on the way. Since, I was planning on coming in for the 2nd half of my day, they had to get teachers to cover the last 3 classes. Daniel was quite upset (as I was when the tables were turned) and had to stop for gas but arrived at the hospital about the same time as we did int he ambulance. They monitored him from about 11:15 to 2:15, when he was released. He shouldn't have been, but he was doing some better. They gave him a steroid shot and sent me home with more prescriptions for stuff we had at home. Daniel dropped me off at the dr. office to get my car, and I went in to talk to the dr. I made an appt. for Z the next morning at 8am.
He didn't sleep well that night. We had to do treatments throughout the night and his breathing was really labored. I went into worked exhausted that morning and let Daniel take Z, thinking that he would be fine. Right as the kids were coming down the hall, I noticed I had a text from Daniel. The doc was sending Z back to the hospital but bypassing the ER and going to the Pediatric ICU. They could keep a good eye on his blood oxygen levels and other vitals that were dipping and rising with inconsistency. So, then it was my turn to be upset. I went to the office and told them what happened and that I needed to leave. They were totally ok with it, and reassured me it would be fine. I was very blessed to have a wonderful friend working next door who made "plans" for my class, and a sub picked up the absence for that day and would be there soon.
The doctor said that Z never should have been released from the ER the day before and just needed to spend a night in the hospital with breathing treatments, oxygen, and extra monitoring. His blood oxygen levels had to level out and improve. He was admitted around 10am to the PICU on Wednesday, Sept 1. They did X-rays, blood tests, and gave him an IV b/c he was a little dehydrated. He was put on a continuous treatment. He didn't really eat much that night. None of us got much sleep that night. Daniel and I both stayed at the hospital, and Malachi was picked up and taken care of by my wonderful school friend. He thought it was fun to have a sleepover on a school night with a 2nd grader and an almost 3 year old. Daniel went home for a few hours that night but came back later b/c he couldn't sleep.

The next morning, it was evident that we weren't going home that day. I went home to shower and pick up some late breakfast for Daniel and I. Thursday afternoon around 3pm, he was moved to a normal pediatric room with a simpler machine to basically just monitor heart rate and blood oxygen. They wanted him to get up and go walk and play in the toy room. It was a good idea b/c he was beginning to feel much better by then. He got pretty good at playing with toys with just one hand, since the other one was splinted with the IV.

When he took his nap, finally, around 4pm-ish, without oxygen assistance, his blood oxygen level dropped, again. They had to put the oxygen on him while he slept. We were looking at ANOTHER night in the hospital if he could not sleep at night without oxygen assistance. Lots of people were praying from all over the world, and we felt those prayers that night. Daniel took Malachi home and would take him to school the next day, while I stayed with Z. He slept all night long and kept his blood oxygen level around 95! He never had to have oxygen! What a miracle!!!

Since, he did so well, we were able to be discharged from the hospital on Friday morning and were able to leave around 11am. But, there's more... Daniel took Malachi to school. He walked him to the cafeteria for breakfast. Malachi walked in, and Daniel left. A few minutes later, Malachi walked out of the cafeteria and up to the front of the school looking for his Daddy. The teachers/staff out front noticed him crying and took him to get breakfast, which he declined it all (b/c he couldn't eat most of it). When he complained that he was still hungry, they took him to the nurse and hey gave him a granola bar with almonds. Then, they noticed all of his food allergies and called us. I told them he's never had almonds, but if he wasn't complaining of feeling nauseous then he must not be allergic. She called me back on the way home from the hospital to say that he needed to be picked up, and he was complaining of ear pain.

I asked Daniel to pick him up b/c I was in the car with Z and needed to get him home for a breathing treatment. I, then, called the dr. and set up an appointment for Malachi at 1pm. So, I got home at 11:30. Daddy and Malachi got there at noon. I, then, got a quick shower and left the house at 12:30 to take Malachi to the dr. We both thought it would be nothing but homesickness. The doc looked in his ears, and he had an infection in each ear, not super-horrible, but infected. His cold had finally given him ear infections, and we hadn't seen him enough/noticed him enough to know that he really was "sick," too.

All went well until Saturday afternoon. Z started limping and still had a fever. Sunday, he was pretty bad at church, so I left early to take him to the urgent care. They said it was just exhaustion. Monday was Labor day, and we just chilled. He was still limping everywhere. Daniel took him for a follow up on Tuesday morning. The wonderful doc said it was a virus and may have been what caused the horrible asthma attack. The virus was set to last 7-10 days. It is now, at least day 10. He has refused to walk since he got up Friday morning. I guess he is going back to the dr. tomorrow.

Tuesday also marked the time that Malachi began crying, screaming, and chasing me out the door every morning at school. We kept trying other stuff, but nothing worked. We're initiating plan Q tomorrow morning by getting his 2nd grade friend to hang with him and take him to class. I can't take another week of this. This past weekend was rough. I was feeling some depression coming on from all the stress. I missed 4 days of school in the 2nd week of school. All 4 days of the 3rd week began with a crying, attached 5 year old. Saturday, I was able to get a last-min. babysitter, so Daniel and I could go out. Sunday was restful, just watching football and doing laundry. I'm praying that God will revolutionize this week because I've just about reached my breaking point.

2010-08-26T21:03:00.004-05:00

Malachi's first day of school was Tuesday. He was so excited/nervous that he had a hard time falling asleep the night before. He also wouldn't eat breakfast. He talked my ear off for the 30-40 min. drive into Tampa and waiting in line. He was ready to get out and get into the classroom. We put his stuff away, found his seat again, and I tried to get him to sit down and color like the other kids. I had been in the room for about 10 min. Then, when he realized I was leaving, he began to cry. That made me cry. I was ok until then. I kept trying to leave, but the teacher was busy with other students. Finally, after about 20 min. in the room, his teacher had a moment to grab him. He was the only kid screaming and crying that Mom was leaving :(

It also rained all day on the first day, so he couldn't go out and play at school or in the sports after school program we put him in.

2nd day went great! He yelled bye to me when I dropped him off and willingly went to work at this desk.

3rd day went well, also. He got to get all sweaty in after school!!! Love it. He's been on "green" every day, which is the best you can get. He did, however, tell me on the way home that the girls who sit across from him told him he "wasn't smart." Then, he said, "I know I'm smart, Mommy." I'm glad he understands a little bit better. In VPK, he continually got comments like that from other classmates and was hit often. He didn't usually tell us. We didn't realize it was a big problem and really bothering him until he suddenly became violent towards others. Malachi has never been that aggressive towards anyone until that point. I think I will talk to his teacher in the morning, just to give her a head's up. Malachi didn't seem too upset, but I'm really surprised that children would say that on the 3rd day of school. That is usually an indication of things to come. Malachi is truly smart and belongs in K. I know, though, that he hasn't said a whole lot because he's still nervous and getting used to so many new people. It takes him a little while.

just arrived at school, standing next to his new Lightning McQueen bookbag

dressed in his uniform, about to leave the house with Mommy

sitting at his desk for the first time...a meltdown in about to happen :(

Malachi's Going to SCHOOL!!!

2010-08-21T07:26:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday, Malachi will start kindergarten. Last night he met his teacher. In total shy style, he didn't say a word to her, nor would he look at things or walk around the classroom. When he got up this morning, he asked if he could go to school. It's Saturday!!! I'm glad he's excited, but, seriously, kid.

His school has classrooms that have an opening between 2 rooms with bathrooms in between. It's a little weird, but I'm finding that is par for the course in this area of Florida. There are tons of books, stuff to do, and a jam-packed schedule. It looks like there are 18 kids, total, in his class.

His teacher seems very nice. She is 8 months pregnant, but the substitute was there at open house, too. I thought that was nice. I just hope that Malachi still likes being there by the end of next week :)

He has to be in the after school program at the school for about 2 and half hours until I get out of work. We had him transferred in the county that I teach in so we would have the same schedule. The county that we live in has a crazy-screwy schedule that would leave little time off together, so we opted for the easy schedule. Now I get to share my 30 min. car ride with a chatty 5 year old instead of being by myself. I think it will be nice....I hope.

We're all looking forward to Tuesday :) Malachi is ready...am I?

Z-miles (Z's similes)

2010-08-12T16:45:00.002-05:00

Lately, Ezekiel has been using a lot of similes. We determined today that he gets it from his daddy, but he comes up with some crazy ones. It is a simile because he is always using the word like and making a comparison.

For example...

I don't like this blueberry muffin. It tastes like strawberries.
It smells like a poot.
Toodles can't talk. He's like a dog. Kiev can't talk.

They don't always make sense, but it is very smart of him to make the connections that he does.

Z-isms

"I smell." - I smell something
"Army" - Barney - he did correct it with some coaxing
"Jeff" - giraffe
"effant" - elephant

Look what I've done Lately!

2010-08-06T09:24:00.005-05:00

The walls were white to begin with. It's still not done, yet, but I hope to get somewhat finished by next week, since it is my last week off before school starts.

This is our nursery at Z-hills FA. It needed some definite upgrades. Nursery is called tiny town.

It's been a long process, but I'm really proud of what I have accomplished. I've had a little help along the way, but most of it was all me. Super-excited to see the "finished" product.

Car Conversation with Daddy & his Boys

2010-08-06T09:01:00.002-05:00

Malachi: "I was the first baby. That's why I was 4, now I'm 5."
Ezekiel: "I the second baby."
Daddy: "Who's going to be the third baby?"
Malachi: "I don't know. Mommy has to get fat for that."

How sad :)

Things I've overheard lately

2010-07-22T21:10:00.003-05:00

Malachi to Z while playing with Lego people..."Z, can I have your baby, please?" (repeated, again, in case Z didn't hear) "Z, can I have your baby, please? I want to take him to the park."...Oh, now I get it. :)

Z to Malachi in the car on the way home from the movies..."Be careful when you drop popcorn on the floor. Be careful you don't eat it."

Dear Malachi,

2010-07-19T09:17:00.004-05:00

We just got back from visiting NC for 2 weeks. While we were there, you had your 5th birthday. Last year, you had your 4th birthday in Florida while we were visiting and interviewing for the job. The last 2 birthdays have been spent away from "home." I'm sorry, buddy. Thankfully, you've had the "month of your birthday" and have enjoyed it.
I love you sooooo much, sweet boy. You are sweet, most of the time. You listen pretty well and LOVE to learn new things. You ask about 100 questions a day. Not always do the questions make sense or need to be asked, but I'm glad that you are learning from your surroundings. I know that you will do well in kindergarten next month. I'm looking forward to seeing you begin to read and spell. You haven't made all the phonics connections yet, but your phonemic awareness is awesome!!! (I know, I'm a dork. I learned the difference in my reading courses I have to take).

More and more, I desire to homeschool and stay home with you (and your brother). Malachi, because you learn so much from your surroundings, you often pick up bad habits/choices from friends and family. I want you to make the right choices. You are soooooo stubborn and try to throw fits, something you rarely did until the past year. You stomp your feet and make noises and try to be upset. I know you do this to get your way and not because you are truly mad, because I can easily get you laughing to change your mood. You would probably learn best from someone else in a school-setting, but I would love to try to teach you. I'm not totally sure how efficient the teachers are at your school, but I hope you will get a good one who likes you for who you are.

You can be cuddly and affectionate when you want to be. Sometimes you are a little too touchy. I'm trying to work with you on that. You will understand why later, but more than that you just need to listen and be less clingy with things that are new. You can be a great helper, when you want to be. Other times you are the biggest hindrance to progress. Overall, you are an INCREDIBLE child. I'm am soooo thankful for God sending you to us. I love to see you grow and learn.

Even though you were fully tongue-tied at birth. Your little "surgery" has seemed to help. I don't detect any speech problems. There are a few words/sounds that we are working on now, but they are not problematic and repetitive. You can use every sound in the English language. We just have to break some bad habits.

You've also been through a lot this past year with your little brother being so sick. You missed out on a lot of attention because our efforts had to be focused on Z. You were jealous at times, which is totally warranted, but, overall, you handled it well. I try to spend special time with you only, now. Usually, though, you want Z around. He's your buddy. I'm thankful for how well the 2 of you are friends and play together. We hope to add some little ones to our family later that would be close together like you and Z. Because you are so gracious with your brother, I know that you will be gracious with little brothers/sisters. I worry more about Z than you when it comes to this issue.

Responsible can also be another word to describe you. You know your allergies. You know what you can eat and what you can't. If you want to try something new, and I say know because I'm not sure how you will react, you accept the answer and move on. You will tell people who forget about your allergies or what you can't eat. How great you handle it!!! I am so thankful that So Delicious makes soy ice cream! At VBS a few weeks ago, you had your first soda float with vanilla ice cream! Every kid should be able to have vanilla ice cream! You were excited, and I was excited for you that you could be like every other kid and have a float. That doesn't always happen. You have your own cheese, too. Veggie cheese (made from tofu, I guess) is a wonderful thing to have. We can make you cheeseburger mac or just plain mac n cheese, now. You adore it!
I love you, Malachi James! I can't wait to take you to your first day of school and, then, receive my middle schooler (teary-eyed). You are a wonderful child and young man. I'm looking forward to seeing you grow even more. Love you!!!

-Momma

What we've been up to...

2010-07-13T08:34:00.003-05:00

Since Malachi's VPK graduation we have been very busy. Grammy and Grandpa came to visit. We went to the beach. We had VBS at church. We've been painting the nursery at church. Malachi, Ezekiel, and I traveled to NC to visit family and friends. Malachi had a birthday. Malachi still hasn't had his official birthday party yet, but we've got one in the works for when we get back. We are in the midst of the "month of Malach's birthday."

My 2 favorite little buddies

Hangin' in the gulf waters

Our beach set-up and Daniel's nap spot

"Delmar Roamer" & tour guide during Route 254 VBS

Handy Manny's power saw

Lightning McQueen backpack for starting real school (sniff, sniff)

Buzz Lightyear & Woody pajamas

Buzz Lightyear & Woody

This is made out of Legos!
Yay, for taking 3 hours to put it together with a 5 year old.

Pre-Kindergarten Graduation

2010-06-08T20:51:00.005-05:00

Tonight Malachi had his VPK (voluntary pre-kindergarten) graduation. He was supposed to deliver the opening prayer. He didn't. He didn't participate in singing. He wouldn't even walk to get his "diploma." His teacher said he did it perfectly in practice, but he was the one kid who did NOTHING but stand there. Poor guy was mortified to be in front of strangers.

Malachi saying the prayer in the microphone :)

Malachi singing "this little light of mine"

Malachi repeating how to spell Tiny Treasures :)

Z-isms

2010-06-06T14:44:00.002-05:00

"back birds" - back wards
"I love you a big much!"
"Bu-bite-ear" - Buzz Lightyear
"Toodles can't talk. He's a dog like Kiev." - that was a good analogy but don't know where that came from, other than a conversation about Toodles talking on an episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

Z's Surgery

2010-05-08T11:45:00.005-05:00

On Wednesday, May 5, Ezekiel went under anesthesia again. The first time was for tubes in his ears. It was June of 2008. This time was for tubes in his ears, again, tonsils and adenoids out, and his tongue clipped. He is partially tongue-tied. I wasn't worried about the anesthesia but the fact that he was going to be cut up in his head. The dr. had already said that his tonsils were huge.

The surgery went fine. He was scheduled to go back at 11:15am. We had to arrive at 9:15am but got there at 9. He wasn't taken back to surgery until noon---long morning. I didn't eat breakfast since he couldn't eat. I didn't eat lunch while we were waiting on him. I had some pretzels. He was out of surgery by about 1. He did NOT wake up well. He cried for an hour. Once they stopped poking him and let him lay down, he went right to sleep on me for about an hour. When he woke up, he wasn't crying. That night he ate about 4-5 popsicles and a small thing of ice cream. He fell asleep about 8:30pm and was ready to be up the next morning around 7:30am. Of course, he woke up a few times and was awakened by the nurses a few times to check vitals or the IV machine going off, but he ate all his eggs for breakfast and had another popsicle before the eggs. The dr. came by about 9am, and we left by about 10.

Ezekiel wanted Malachi, so I took a shower and we picked up Malachi at noon. We went to Sonny's b/c Z had been begging before the surgery for their mac n cheese. So, we had a special lunch with the boys. Then we all took a long nap (except for Malachi who watched tv). He's done pretty well sleeping and hasn't awakened a bunch in the middle of the night. We keep lortab in Z every 4 hours, and he's ok.

Here are some pictures of him at the hospital (before & after) and a video of him with the medicine to relax him.

Apparantly, my kitchen is a dance floor!

2010-05-03T20:04:00.004-05:00

The boys had a good time showing off their dance skills tonight.

A Restaurant Maker

2010-04-28T21:09:00.002-05:00

On the way home from the doctor, Malachi began asking about school and grades (like 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.) I told him that 12th was the last grade, and then you could go to college. He asked me what you did after college. My response: get a job. He said he didn't want to get a job. I told him that he couldn't live with mom and dad forever and eventually had to make money. He said he didn't want to make money, but then sat for about 15 seconds thinking about what I had said.

"Mommy, what job should I have?"

Well, do you want to be a children's pastor like Daddy? "Nooo"

Do you want to be a teacher like Mommy? "Nooo"

Do you want to work with money and numbers like Grandpa? "Nooooo"

Police man? "no" Fireman? "no" Baker? "no" Chef and cook food for others? "no"

"How about a RESTAURANT MAKER, Mommy? I want to cook food for people."

You mean a chef, right? "No, a restaurant maker and MAKE food in a RESTAURANT."

Oooooohhhhh!!!! Now I get it.

God's Blessings

2010-04-25T00:57:00.002-05:00

I know I should post about our recent cruise or how the boys are doing for family & entertainment value, but I first have to talk about God's goodness to us in the past year and a half.

Jan. 2009 - Grandpa Bill passed away. He was suffering and partly out of his mind. It is never fun to lose someone you love, but we are thankful he is definitely with you and out of total pain. It was a rough time for Daniel's side of the family (and still is), but God has been Matthew 11:28-30. He has brought rest and taken our yoke upon Him. For His yoke is easy and His burden is light. I'm sad that He is gone but so grateful that God has carried us through it. It was hard to explain it (for the first time) to little boys who had just been given life, but, again, God helped us through that.

Feb.-Mar 2009 - The doctor found a lump in my left breast. It wasn't a cyst like they hoped. I chose to do a biopsy and discovered it was a benign tumor. It may grow but would never be cancer. I went through a whirlwind of emotions at that point in time. It was then, that God taught me one of the greatest lessons I have ever learned---I have no control over my life. It took a bible study on a minor prophet brought by Pastor Derrick Ross, for me to see that whatever the outcome of the biopsy, God was in total control. I had no control over my life and it needed to be that way. I like to be in control, and I thought I had given God control many years ago, but at that time I realized, I had to give it up. I am so thankful for that lesson and the experience. Yes, I am thankful for a lump. It is a reminder, often, of how great our God truly is. It could have been cancer. God knew what I needed at that time. He was also prepping me for the next few months and the rest of the year. I don't know if the changes that came later would have happened, if He hadn't of brought this about.

April-May 2009 - I was desperate for change. Our finances were out of control. I wanted Daniel to quit the ministry but was praying and believing for a change. We didn't make enough money working our 2 jobs to make ends meet. We got further behind each week.

June 2009 - The day after my last day of teaching, Daniel submitted his resume to 3-4 churches. I had just completed my fourth and final year of teaching in an NC public school and had "paid off" my debt of service to the NC Teaching Fellows scholarship program. Daniel got 2 return contacts from 2 churches about bringing him on as a full-time children's pastor.

July 2009 (beginning) - We interviewed at Zephyrhills, First Assembly in Florida. Daniel accepted the job. We began to pack and renovate the house to get ready to sell. This was Daniel's first move out of the Concord area. This was my first move since we moved AWAY from Florida when I was 6.

July 30, 2009 - We moved to z-hills into a 2 bedroom, 1 bath rental single-wide trailer. It was cramped and small but a blessing. The rent was cheap, and it gave us time to look for a house to buy. We began our first full-time ministry to children.

August 20, 2009 (Wed)- I submitted my application to Hillsborough county (Tampa) and my resume to a few schools because Pasco had no jobs.

August 21, 2009 (Thur)- I was contacted and went in for an interview for a Reading position at Liberty. They said they would let me know. I felt the interview went well.

August 22, 2009 (Fri)- I was contacted and went in for a 2nd interview for this reading position at Liberty. I was informally offered the job. Since I would be teaching "out of field," I had to be approved by the assistant superintendent.

August 25, 2009 (Mon) - This was the first day back for teachers. I was called that afternoon and officially offered the job.

August 26, 2009 (Tues) - I began working at Liberty. Praise the Lord!

September 2009 - We put in an offer on a house in Z-hills and closed on our house in Concord in the same week! All that God had promised He would do, He did!

August 2009-April 2010 - Ezekiel has been very sick. He went to the ENT and was decided he needed tubes back in his ears, again, tonsils removed, adenoids removed, and his tongue-clipped. We waited to see if the insurance was going to cover it. It seems they will!

April 2010 - Z was slapped with a pre-existing condition by the insurance company until Nov. of 2010 for asthma. I believe the Lord has promised that his surgery will be his healing, and this fact won't matter. His surgery will provide the means needed to keep his lungs healthy, too. I am looking forward to God doing another miracle in our lives!

May 5, 2010 - Z's surgery is scheduled, and God will "show off" in our lives again!

Thank you, Lord, for all your many blessings and all the things you have done for us. We can never repay you but are so incredibly thankful that You love us so much!

Fun with Sponge Animals

2010-04-05T11:05:00.007-05:00

Grammy bought and brought the little capsules with animal sponges inside. Unfortunately, she didn't get to do them with the boys. So, since I took the day off to recooperate Ezekiel and rest; because I was exhausted, we got to do them this morning. The boys had a blast and spent about an hour just playing in the water. You can see that I got wise and gave them each a towel so there wouldn't be a massive water mess. My learning curve is a little slower than others but not too bad. It was a lot of fun for them and kept them quiet and entertained. Easy clean-up for me, too. What's easier than water?!?

Sick Boy

2010-04-05T10:53:00.002-05:00

Grammy & Grandpa came to visit us for Easter. We were extremely busy, so they got to spend a lot of time with just the boys. I know that's what they came for, so it worked out.

I took Z to the doctor on Tuesday, last week. He got a strong antibiotic and a flu test (which came back negative). He had thrown up the night before and had a raging fever. He was diagnosed with a "bronchiole infection." It didn't seem to help much. He still had a fever and continued to have one until I took him to the Pediatric Urgent Care, last night (Easter). His fever did subside a little on Friday and Saturday but was pretty hot every other day.

Last night Grammy went with me to the Urgent Care to check on Z. Once there, he had a fever of 103. His pulse rate was pretty high, too. They took 2 sets of x-rays on his chest. They swabbed his nose for the flu test. It turns out he had a bad case of pneumonia & the flu (now). Thankfully, there was also 2 pharmacies open in Z-hills (24 hours). He got an antibiotic shot in his bottom before we left and a prescription for Tamiflu. Grammy & Grandpa then went to get it filled---an hour and a half later---we had the meds. He still didn't sleep great, but Z is on the mend, finally. The shot is always AWESOME at helping him. The Tamiflu seemed to help, too. He stayed cool the rest of the night and thus far, today. He has improved 10x what he was before (which was rough). I'm waiting for the full recovery. Poor guy spent a week just existing and not LIVING.

This is the second time he has had pneumonia. The last one was in November. Lord, help us get through these trying times.

Sharing

2010-03-27T20:15:00.003-05:00

Conversation between Malachi and his Dad yesterday...

M: Why aren't we getting 2 basketball goals? One for me and one for Z.
D: Because they are expensive, and you can easily share that.
M: Oh, ok. We can share.

Conversation between Malachi and his Dad today...

M: What are you going to Wal-Mart for?
D: I'm going to get a basketball goal.
M: We already have one. Why do we need another one?
D: No, that's for you and Z. I'm going to get a big one for me and Mommy.
M: Can you and Mommy share?
D: Yes, I think we can share a basketball goal :)

Things I didn't know I needed to tell my 4 year old...

2010-03-20T15:41:00.003-05:00

We decided we would go see a baseball game today. Ever since we decided last night, Malachi had been whining about not wanting to go. He literally whined and cried ALL MORNING! We decided to anyways, of course. As we were walking into the stadium, Malachi said the fireworks would be loud for his ears!?! We were going to a 1pm game! When, Daniel explained that it was daytime and there would be no fireworks, he was fine. What a goof! He enjoyed his time at the game. Go figure.

Now for the few and far between "Malachi-isms"

"in-tra-string" - interesting
Did he get a spare? - that's bowling, not baseball, but he did just earn a strike by swinging and missing the ball. Too cute!

A Day with the Family

2010-03-20T15:30:00.009-05:00

Today we went to Lakeland for a Spring Training game between the Detroit Tigers and the Philadelphia Phillies. We had a good time. It was finally nice to have some pleasant sunshine and little wind. Enjoy some pictures.

My 'Nole Boys

2010-03-20T15:27:00.002-05:00

The awesome thing about it...living in Florida. I paid about $3 (total) for the shirts.

A Long Time Coming

2010-03-19T22:20:00.002-05:00

There has been lots going on, but not too much to "report." Malachi is really struggling with listening and not throwing fits. Ezekiel had a horrible fit of asthma with ear infections, too (or vice versa) last weekend. His insurance doesn't want to pay for anything. I had a good evaluation with my principal today but have to do some reading endorsement class before August 19 to still be able to have a job.

Lots of changes have been generally happening with the boys. Nothing big, though. I got done with the FCAT last week and can now breathe a little easier. Daniel is busy planning the big Easter egg hunt and service for Easter Sunday. We miss family terribly.

We need a relatively big riding lawnmower, new refrigerator, and new dishwasher (in order of importance). Malachi needs new shoes, and we haven't been able to find any that we like that would be durable, yet.

Daniel kept the boys home from school today, so they could hang out. They visited the Detroit Tigers spring training ballpark and had some Zaxby's (because, as I mentioned before, Zephyrhills has NO WHERE to eat).

I'm looking forward to Z's surgery and visiting family and friends in NC this summer. I'm super busy at being a mom, a quality teacher, children's pastor's wife and chief helper, and worship team member. Plus, I do my monthly time in the nursery. Ezekiel really likes being a big boy and likes to be apart of the services (even if he is a little young).

I'll try to post some pictures soon. I got a new cell phone and number (Daniel's old cell number) b/c Daniel got a church phone. I'm figuring it all out.

I'm beat. Good night.

Oh, ya, my poor sister-in-law is now a few days past her due date and can't wait to meet their first little BOY!

Now, good night!!!

Ezekiel's Favorite Food is

2010-03-06T22:06:00.002-05:00

SCRAMBLED EGGS!

On our way home from the ENT this week (Mon.), Ezekiel had decided that he wanted "muppins" (muffins) for dinner. I kept telling him that I would would make some for breakfast (and I kept that promise, too). Thankfully, he finally understood. Then, when asked what HE wanted for dinner, it was eggs. I had just scrambled him 2 eggs for breakfast that morning (and he didn't eat them all, either). Since we couldn't convince Z that he needed to pick something else to eat and neither of his parents were in the mood to cook (after the long dr. visit and the news of surgery), we opted for Cracker Barrel. Thankfully, there is one not too far away from our house (about 20 min.) You see in Zephyrhills, there are about 6 chain "restaurants" where you sit down (Sonny's, Pizza Hut, Chili's, Beef O Brady's, and Ruby Tuesday). Not much to chose from.

The boy ended up with 2 scrambled eggs (since Malachi is allergic). He scarfed them both down and was asking for more before I could eat more than 4 bites of my food. Daddy made eggs for him on Friday morning, too. The boy loves his "yeggs!" I'm glad he is eating and eating PROTEIN. Sometimes it is so hard to get him to eat anything. Not that he needs more energy, but his body definitely needs it to grow.

According to Publix's scales (on Thursday), Z was 29 lbs. His weight had been stagnant for months, fluctuating between 23-25 lbs. I hope this sticks! Maybe after his surgery this summer, and he gains a little more weight, he can move up to a booster seat and seat belt. That would be nice. I am beliving that God will provide a healthy boy through this surgery and am looking forward to a good 2nd half of the summer (watching him grow, really and truly).

Ezekiel's Upcoming Surgery

2010-03-02T21:18:00.002-05:00

We took Ezekiel to the Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor yesterday. He's just been sick for so long. The specialist suggests that we have his tonsils removed (they are huge and cause him to snore), adenoids removed (to help with drainage issues and clearing the head), tubes replaced in ears (originally put in June of 2008), AND his tongue clipped.

We noticed at birth that Ezekiel was a little tongue-tied. We didn't think it was too bad. The doc feels it could cause some speech issues later and will be easy to do now. He will be in too much pain from having his tonsils gone, so he won't even notice. Malachi was fully tongue-tied. He had a simple outpatient surgery when he was a little over 6 months. Once they get over 9 months, they have to be sedated. He might be all right, but he may have speech problems. Why not do it now, too.

The scheduled recovery time is about 2 weeks. Daniel & I are going on a cruise for spring break, so I think we decided it would be best to wait until summer. Then, he can have my undivided attention and I will not have to worry about sub plans. I don't want to wait 4 months and deal with the maintenance of a sick kid, but we both feel that will be the best time.

I am thankful for a doctor who will do a good job and am praying that this will be the "healing" that I have been praying for. June 23rd is the tentative date. Please pray.

Party Pictures

2010-02-27T21:40:00.006-05:00

Ezekiel had a great time at his party. He got to slide down the big slide. He enjoyed hanging out in the ball pit at the bottom. It was almost warm enough that day to make it a waterslide. We'll add water for Malachi's birthday in July. Z had one friend from school and several friends from church who came to join our celebration. He ended up with some great presents and a nice, long nap from being so tired.

Happy Birthday, Ezekiel!

2010-02-27T21:37:00.001-05:00

Ezekiel-isms

2010-02-17T21:56:00.002-05:00

"Sponge-quob" - sponge bob
"hook" - hood
"ga-boon" - baloon
"Zach-uh-why-wee" - Zack and Riley (big boys from church)
"Why-kweem" - Lightning McQueen
"Al-bee-yuh" - Albuterol (one of his breathing medicines)
"sem-noles" - cinnamon roles
"skinny pig" - guinea pig

The Frustration

2010-02-13T21:03:00.002-05:00

Ezekiel hasn't been sleeping well for about 3 weeks now. He normally gets up in the middle of the night and expects to get in bed with us. Part of that is my fault, again, but I can't help that I go to bed exhausted each night and have a hard time dealing with being up in the middle of the night. I've been struggling with a nasty cold for about 2 weeks now, too. His sleeping patterns left my body with no defenses. Every time I think I feel better, it hits me hard. I've been working through it. Z has been ok, but he still has to have 2 breathing treatments a day in order to be able to survive each day and night.

I'm frustrated that the kid cannot get well. I'm frustrated that the kid now thinks he can get in bed with me in the middle of the night. I have prayed and prayed for his healing. I am still trusting that the Lord will answer that prayer. I am just frustrated that we are still struggling with a "sick" child. I want to sleep through the night. I want Z to sleep through the night. He is sleeping ok, but he refuses to stay in his bed at night or go back to his bed when asked. I feel like I have an infant again. Not fun.

Epcot & the Magic Kingdom

2010-02-06T08:13:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I was off of school, so we went to Disney. We started at Epcot. It was the only park we hadn't been to yet. We went into the Innovention center for a few minutes then did the Nemo experience and looked at fish. We wanted to get lunch there but couldn't sit down anywhere. Reservations were full. The boys didn't want to do anything there and were quite whiny, so we walked around, exited the park and went to the Magic Kingdom. It started raining a little after 3pm, but we were able to eat lunch, watch the Country Bears show, have front-row seats to a parade and watch the Hall of Presidents show. While in with the presidents, it began raining, and the stroller got soaked. No more riding for Malachi or Ezekiel to keep the booties dry. We got quite wet walking around, but we were able to ride a lot of things with little wait. Ezekiel really liked It's a Small World. We had to ride that twice. We did the Carousel, the Winnie the Pooh ride, the Tomorrow Land cars. We walked through Minnie & Mickey's houses and made the boys ride their first roller-coaster (Goofy's Barnstormer). They both liked it.

Malachi whines everytime we go to Disney. He ends up having a good time but has an intense fear about anything new that he whines and cries through most of the journey. Since we didn't have ponchos, we got wet, but we didn't have to wait long in any line. I think this helped Malachi who didn't have time to worry about the ride or what would happen next. Ezekiel was just barely tall enough to ride Goofy's coaster. He was a little scared through the ride but enjoyed it afterward. Ezekiel kept talking about what he wanted to ride again or for the first time when Grammy & Grandpa come back. They went with us at Christmas (which we will never do again---way too crazy). Z even told us last week that he just wanted Grandpa to take him to Disney and not Grammy, just Grandpa.

Now that the boys are finally having fun at Disney. We have to get more of the family down here to go with us. I want the whole family to be able to enjoy the "happiest place on earth" (ok, not really, but it is fun) with their favorite little boys. So, all you family reading this, start to make your plans. We've got plenty of room here at the house. Plus it only takes 1 hour to get to any of the parks from our house. It makes for plenty of fun day trips!

Haircuts at Home

2010-02-06T08:11:00.003-05:00

Tuesday night Daniel cut the boys' hair. We need to get some more clippers, so it can be neater. It was decided that we have to pay way too much money now to get their haircut. I miss my hair lady who always did the boys' hair for really cheap (and cut mine the way I wanted it). So, in order to save at least $25 each month, Daniel will begin to cut their hair. Here are some pictures...

Dear Ezekiel,

2010-01-30T16:29:00.002-05:00

This last week has almost broken me. I haven't gotten a lot of sleep. Your asthma flared up for some reason. I was up every work night for at least 30 minutes and usually around 2am giving you a breathing treatment. I was ok until Friday when all the missing sleep and no REM sleep finally caught up with me. I was a walking zombie. I haven't been that tired since you were a newborn. I didn't have your dad get up with you because it was easier for me. I am fairly even tempered when tired, your daddy, not so much. I am so thankful that the Lord blessed you with good sleep last night. I got some good sleep, too. Plus, we both got good naps today! I am hoping to feel normal by tomorrow. Being so tired, wore down my immune system, and I started to contract a cold, too. That is unusual for me, but I am thankful that you are finally feeling better.

We've been also going through a rough time with learning how to tell you no and sticking to it. I realized how inconsistent we were with you. I wondered how it happened for awhile. Then, I was reminded of how sick you have been for the last year or 2. It is really hard to reinforce rules when you go through weeks without sleeping well and just feel rotten all the time. Now, I've just realized that we have to be consistent and teach you that even though you may feel bad, you still have to behave normally and work through it.

You are so precious on most days, though. About a week after school started back, and we got back into a routine, you began to come around. You don't really need routine as your older brother does, but it still does help keep you calm when you are sick. You have the sweetest smile. Your laughter sets the room on fire (in a good way). You say things that are so incredibly cute. You are like your mom and dad in the fact that you are stubborn (and don't give up easily) and always like to be right, even if we point out that you are wrong.

Lately, you have been talking about wanting a baby. Now would be a good time for you to have a little brother or sister, but your mom and dad are not ready just yet. You know you are the baby and have your daddy wrapped around your little finger (sounds a lot like a mom and grandpa I know quite well ;) You need to be broken of "being the baby" stuff. Mom and Dad are hoping to try for a baby in about a year. I can't have horrible weeks like this with you being so sick AND have a newborn. I think you will make a good big brother like Malachi is to you, but you need some more time to grow and get better.

We enjoy our family of 4. You bring a lot more joy and laughter to the house. I'm looking forward to seeing you turn 3 and grow even more. I am so thankful that you were potty trained much earlier than Malachi. I don't think I could have taken much more of diapers. It is nice just to have to buy pull-ups for night. Saving money is good! Your personality is 10 times bigger than your size. You are resilient and do handle pain well. I am continuing to pray that the Lord heals you of your asthma. It is not fair that you should have such a hard time breathing.

I love you, Ezekiel Luke! You are everybody's baby, and that is ok, for now. God has blessed us so much by giving us you. You were quite the unexpected blessing. I wouldn't want to have life without you. God knew just what we needed when he loaned you to us. You are a wonderful son! Keep singing and dancing to the tune God plays for your life.

-Momma

A few Ezekiel-isms for the road...

"My legs is skinny." - My legs are dry (I don't get that one)
"bur-tay" - birthday
"zee-kee-ole" - Ezekiel
"say-same" - same (still one of my favorites)
"week" - Wii
"Passer Ranny" - Pastor Randy
"Miss Ronica" - Mrs. Veronica

Day at Hollywood Studios

2010-01-18T21:45:00.002-05:00

We enjoyed a wonderful day at Disney's Hollywood Studios today. My birthday being Wednesday and schools being off today for MLK, Jr. Day, we decided to take the day and explore another park. There was barely any wait time and very few people (compared to Christmas). We walked right back and sat down to watch the Playhouse Disney show. Mickey, Handy Manny, Little Einsteins, and Tigger & Pooh wowed our boys and captured their attention. As we were leaving the show, Malachi saw the life-sized Handy Manny. He RAN over to where he was walking and waved furiously. That boy was excited!

We took the backlot tour. Malachi enjoyed watching the stunt show with rain, fire and a "flood." Lunch was decent. It was worth the money for the boys' kids' meals, not so much for the adults. I think their favorite part would be the "Lights, Motors, Action!" which was an awesome display of stunt effects and awesome driving in a little space. The boys kept talking about it.

There was a "block party" parade that the boys refused to participate in, but Ezekiel thought it would be fun to dance to the music AFTER the parade left. We bought them Pirate Mickey fork, spoon, and bowl from one of the shops. It was nice to get a discount from our passes.

I would unanimously say that Indiana Jones was NOT the boys' favorite. They were without nap and getting tired, but Daniel enjoyed it.

There was very little whining. Ezekiel walked a lot, so did Malachi. There was only fearful tears from Malachi when we first arrived. We're working on his fear of everything new. He's getting better. It was an awesome day for us to spend as a family! We really wanted to ride the Tower of Terror but swapping kids to ride alone was not my idea of fun. We'll go some other time when we can have some other adults with us.

I'm glad I could "celebrate" my birthday early with my family! I love them all so much!

Dear Malachi,

2010-01-09T15:43:00.002-05:00

You are growing up quickly. I don't know how well I am handling it. About 2 weeks ago, you told me, "I hate you." I know you didn't mean it, but it made me sad. I hadn't done anything to truly upset you to make you say that. It took some time for me to realize that you had learned that from someone at daycare who is usually acting bad and is probably no properly punished for it. We have had a discussion or 2 about that, as well as other behaviors, and you seem to understand. We need to work more with you and teach you how to handle your feelings better---something I wish I could do with every child who is not properly cared for at home.

It also made me think about how much I want to be able to stay home with you. I've had that desire for the past 2 years when I realized that other people were not teaching and guiding you the way I wanted. It is not that anyone is failing, but I like to be in control of the situation. The only other person that I trust to raise you right is your father. I love you so much and want you to grow up to be a respectful young man with a desire to serve the Lord. I feel we are doing all right, but I just want to know what goes in your ear and what you see, all the time.

In November, you brought home a paper with your name written by you, for the first time. It is still on the fridge. I will probably keep that forever. You are so smart and catch on to so much. You can count to twenty now and are excellent with your letters and numbers, as a whole. The VPK program at daycare has been wonderful and just what you needed to "catch up" academically. I have no doubt you will be ready for Kindergarten next year. You LOVE structure and consistency, which, I believe, will make you extremely successful in school. You love to learn. I hope we can keep this learning ingrained in you.

I love the way you run to meet me when I get home and throw your arms around me. Sometimes I don't like when you ask so many questions that don't always make sense to me, or talk to hear yourself talk; but I am so thankful that you can talk normally and have absolutely no speech problems from being tongue-tied and having your tongue clipped. I love to hear your sing, especially worship songs. You love church and learning your verse each week. It makes me so proud. I know we have a LOOOOOOOOONG way to go until we are out of the woods, and you know exactly who you are in Christ, but I am so grateful.

I love you, Malachi James! You are becoming a wonderful young man.

-Momma

Welcoming in 2010!

2010-01-01T10:17:00.005-05:00

Last night we picked up some "fireworks" from Publix along with some "bubbly" (sparkling cider and grape juice). Daniel set off the few on the ground one. Ezekiel loved the sparklers. Malachi refused to come outside most of the time until the end. Then, he still wouldn't hold one, but at least he came outside. We had spent about 2 1/2 hours at Outback to use our gift card and have a nice dinner that we didn't have to cook or clean up. We enjoyed it but had to wait WAAAAAAAAY too long. We enjoyed our lazy day of rest.

Christmas Presents

2009-12-31T14:28:00.004-05:00

but first...

a few "Ezekiel-isms"

"ki-muss lites" - Christmas lights (I mis-posted last time)
"jus-jus" - just
"say-same" - same; as in, "we have the say-same drink"
"Mah-kies hit me" - Malachi hit me
"He's a she" - that dog/cat/person is a she/girl
- Our house on Christmas morning

From their Grandpa Honeycutt, they received Jeeps. Yes, our children are the proud owners of PowerWheels. It is just nice that we have the space for them to drive them. I think that is Ezekiel's favorite present.

From friends at the daycre, they got 1 bike with training wheels (no brakes) and 2 scooters. They really were brand-new looking. We were told that they were only used outside once. Malachi loves have a "real" bike now! (and over an acre of land to do so).

From their Grandparents (Rieder), they got a transformer, viewmaster thing with extra pictures, ornaments with their names on it, books, and a few other odds and ends, not to mention time spent together at our new house in FL and at Disney.

From their parents, a mini-recliner (little boy sized), Potato head accessories, and a few other Lightning McQueen odds and ends in their stockings.

I know there are a few others that are working on sending their presents, but, of course, we don't mind if they don't send anything at all. You may notice that the parent list is the shortest. We know our boys don't need a whole lot. They have just about everything. Plus, we try not to make Christmas about presents. We buy gifts for our children all year long when they need something. I'll try to post some Disney and Christmas pics soon.

Daycare Christmas Program

2009-12-28T15:47:00.011-05:00

Monday, December 21st, the boys' daycare held a Christmas play for the parents to enjoy. Our boys got a little stage fright but made us proud. This was their 2nd performance with their first ever daycare. How cute!The Nativity Scene (Malachi's head is to the left of "Mary")

"Mary & Joseph"

Sheep

Sheep Ezekiel

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer

Z singing with his class

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

2009-12-26T22:36:00.001-05:00

(from Disney)

We live

2009-12-15T21:37:00.002-05:00

We finally have internet at our house, as of last night. We are working on getting settled in our new house. We moved in about 6 weeks ago. The boys room is now set. They like their bunkbeds and have plenty of room to play.

About 3 weeks ago, Ezekiel got pneumonia. He had recovered well until this past Saturday. He started out by complaining about his ear hurting in the morning. Nothing major after that until about lunch. He then just whined and wanted to be held. I took him to urgent care. He had a middle ear infection in the ear that still had a tube. His other ear was healthy and had no tube in it. He had no cold symptoms whatsoever. I don't ever remember him getting an ear infection without any other symptoms of a cold. I'm just glad there is a wonderful urgent care for children about 10 min. away in Tampa. They have taken good care of him twice without much waiting.

Malachi is really excited about their Christmas play next week at the daycare. I'll share more after it happens. He ate like a horse today, not sure why. I guess, maybe, he is growing. Poor boy is not skinny like his brother but short like his Daddy :)

I'm looking forward to posting more and posting pics, too.

October Daycare Photo

2009-11-26T00:06:00.006-05:00

Yes, they really did pose like this! I am so impressed with them!

Ezekiel-isms 2.8

2009-11-25T23:47:00.004-05:00

"Pu-gu-licks" - Publix
"baby" - very (as in, "its baby cold")
"Mommy see it" - let me see it
"moose-kick" - music
"Mah-ky" - Malachi
"ah-uh" - I want
"ah-uhn" - I don't want (as in, "ah-uhn milk")
"jep-py-his" - Zephyrhills
"Hammy Hammy" - Handy Manny (still one of my faves)
"kwi-mus" - Christmas
"ah-weh-come" - your welcome
"gwan-pa" - grandpa

He will be three before too long. I can understand him 90% of the time. Sometimes I have to translate, but if people know him at all, they understand most of what he is saying.

One Malachi-ism and a funny story.
"Pug-lix" - Publix

In the car last night, someone said something about Urine. Malachi (immediate reaction) said, "[person's name], your WHAT?!?

It came out of his mouth so funny that I just could stop laughing.

Random note: We have joined the Wii-nation and loving it!

We are homeowners again!!!

2009-11-01T18:28:00.010-05:00

Friday, October 30th, we closed on our house! We are the owners of a 3bed, 2 bath, 2100 sq.ft. home, over 1 acre house. It is totally not our style, but is the biggest, and we are loving it already. All of our stuff is in the house. Thankfully, there is plenty of room for all our stuff, but I have no clue where anything is. I'm going to work on that tomorrow.

Here are the pics of our 800 sq.ft. trailer that we rented for 3 months. Daniel and I slept in the extended living room area ;)

the kitchen table we used as a filing system

the boys ate here and we ate on tv trays

playing with trains in the living room b/c the play room was too small

the tiny kitchen (stove, sink, refrig., no dishwasher)

the hallway

the boys room (yes, they shared a twin bed)

the one teeny, tiny, itsy, bitsy bathroom

the "master" bedroom (used for our clothes and the boys' toys)

I guess I forgot to put a pic of our bed in the extended living room. I'll work on that for later.

More pics to come of the beach and other fun things we have been doing.

The Whirlwind is Almost Over!

2009-08-29T20:21:00.002-05:00

So, here is where we are right now...

We just finished helping coordinate, feed, and photograph my sister-in-law's wedding in NC. We left on Thursday evening for NC around 5pm. We arrived at my parents house at 2:30am on Friday. The boys were up at 7am! We did some finishing touches on our leftover stuff back in NC from our move. We leave tomorrow morning around 7am in order to be back in FL for the 6pm service and dinner.

I was able to get a job in Tampa (the next county over). I drive around 30min. one way to get there, but it is not bad. I teach all 3 grade levels in Reading. Most of my classes are students who did not achieve well on the FCAT (similar to EOGs). I have enjoyed it thus far. I was hired on a Monday afternoon (teacher's first day) and was a work the next day. I was "official" on Wednesday. Students began on Tuesday, the next week.

The boys LOVE their daycare, which is at the church where Daniel works. Malachi is in VPK (pre-kindergarten). He is enjoying learning. Ezekiel was put in the 3 year old room since he is advanced. He loves it, too.

We accepted an offer on our house of Monday this week. We should close in September 20-something. We now have 2 months left to find a house in the Z-hills area. We are happy for the temporary housing with no lease but ready for a house with room for all of us and our stuff. We will be looking at some homes next week.

The boys were ringbearers in the wedding today. We bought them suits. Ezekiel called it his "soup." When he says bathing suit, it is "baby soup." He was so exhausted from today's festivities and no nap and little sleep that he was in bed by 7:30pm and should sleep until we wake him up in the morning.

We don't have internet or cable/satellite at our temporary house, so I will try to do better about updating later. That's why these are a little far and few between.

Pictures!!!

2009-08-10T11:59:00.009-05:00

Last week we were at General Council in Orlando. We had a great time.

Bibleman (Malachi)

My friends Tigger & Pooh (Downtown Disney)

Rainforest Cafe - very scary for the boys - in Downtown Disney

Playing outside at the house

More Playing outside

Maw-Maw Carol (plus Grammy & Grandpa) came down with us to help us move. This is from a recliner in our furnished temporary house.

We're "settled" in.

2009-08-05T12:41:00.002-05:00

We arrived with our U-haul with car-in-tow and Durango at our "rental" temporary housing (for 3 months max) on Thursday morning around 1:30AM. We had planned to leave NC around 6am, but we didn't get to leave until 1:30pm. I love how plans work out :) Anyways, we would have made it sooner, except we were stuck on a stretch on I-95 in SC for about an hour. A tractor trailor must have jack-knifed in the rain, so we got to STOP! It was nice to take Ezekiel pee on the side of the road and share mom's snack of friendship bread with Daniel, Maw-maw Carol, and Malachi (while stopped). We also inched along interstate 95 to 295 as Jacksonville decided to route all traffic for 95 & 295 into ONE LANE! How wonderful!

Well, we made it without any excitement on our part that day. We were able to sleep until 8 or 9am. Then, we began to sweat more than any human should ever have to sweat! The humidity is horrible. Thankfully, we got some help to unload most of the stuff into a storage unit (our rental is furnished). The head pastor and great man, J, came out to assist while Maw-maw and Grammy watched the boys nap and unpack kitchen boxes.

Friday, Daniel went into work for a few hours. I took the boys to the local spraygrounds/splashpad. Malachi wanted Ezekiel to play, but Z would have none of it. It ended in a double meltdown. I'm glad I had to other "mothers" along that day. Malachi had a "talk" with Ezekiel about being his buddy next time and playing. It is so funny how Malachi is a splashpad man, and Ezekiel is a swimming boy. Z hates the splashpad, and Malachi is finally warming up to the pool. He used to be terrified of water.

Saturday, we went out to breakfast, toured Lakeland and saw Southeastern, then ended the day with CiCi's and swimming at the pool at Grammy & Grandpa's hotel.

Sunday was church. Malachi did great, once we got to church. I had to wrestle his clothes on him at home, then throw him in the car. Once there, he calmed and actually sat in his seat the whole time! I was so proud of him. Ezekiel did fine in nursery, too. Grandpa, Grammy, and Maw-maw headed for home right after church. We went to a little Italian/Greek restaurant and home for naps. Church at 6pm, then warm-up the taco meat we bought in the microwave b/c the oven pilot hasn't been lit yet.

Monday, I did laundry and clipped coupons. Afternoon we ate lunch at the house then went to a local bank to start a new account. Then, we ran home and packed, so we could get in the car to head to Orlando for General Council.

We've had a fun time at the Liki Tiki resort in Orlando and a great time at General Council.

We hope to sell our house soon. It was viewed on its 2nd day on the market. Then, we can seriously buy a house. I'm looking forward to more space than a hotel and little 2 bedroom can provide. It's been a whirlwind.

Please pray that I can find a job. School starts in a few weeks. I am believing and praying that God would provide that.

Love ya.

Welcome Summer Michelle!

2009-07-20T19:54:00.005-05:00

Today, my big brother became a DAD for the very first time! He has "adopted" Jasmine as his own, and he is a wonderful father to her. It was so neat to see my brother, David, smile from ear to ear with the birth of his daughter, Summer Michelle. Michelle, his wife, did an excellent job and was thrilled that no extra surgery was necessary. It was blissful to see the proud parents.

She was born at 7:43am, weighing in at 8 lbs., 10 oz, and 21 in. long! She has blue-gray eyes and a head full of thick, dark brown hair. More pictures to come!

Congratulations, David, Michelle, and Jasmine on the birth of this beautiful bundle of joy!!!

We are moving to Florida!!!

2009-07-15T20:57:00.002-05:00

In 2 weeks, we will be moving to Florida. Daniel has been offered and accepted a full-time children's pastor position in a small town outside of Tampa.

We are sad to leave our friends and family but excited about the opportunity that God has given us. He has given Daniel a wonderful job at a wonderful church and even provided cheap housing for us before we even had a chance to look for an apartment.

God has performed 2 incredible miracles thus far. Now we are praying and believing for our house to sell and a job for me. Praise the Lord!

Anticipation

2009-07-10T21:08:00.002-05:00

I'm literally giddy with anticipation over what is happening in our lives right now. I can't share right now and ask that those who do, only share with those who will pray. I have spent hours upon hours crying out to the Lord for help, and he has answered the cry.

Now, I am spending hours and hours praying that He would continue to do the miraculous in our lives.

You see, CFA, our church, has been in the "Pursuit of the Miraculous." About 2-3 months ago, it moved to "Receiving the Miraculous." That is where we are. I hope that in the next few days we can fully divulge all our "secrets." It's not meant to be secretive but the timing has to be right.

I can't wait to share!

What a Blast!

2009-07-03T14:59:00.005-05:00

Malachi's Green B'day Party Luau was great! We had a TON of people in our tiny little house. Malachi got some great presents, but most of all, had a great time with friends and family. Daniel had told Malachi he would make him a green Mickey Mouse cake similar to Ezekiel's cake, but he just ran out of time to make it. So, the day before I was at Target and ordered a Mickey Mouse cake. It was great for our theme, and Malachi got some figurines out of it to play with.

Malachi's Green Luau

2009-06-23T16:49:00.002-05:00

We had some things pop up that made us decide to have his 4th birthday party THIS Saturday at noon. Malachi will be having a green luau party at our house. If you can come, please let us know. Presents are NOT required! We have plenty, but if you must bring something, Malachi likes Cars, Mickey Mouse, Handy Manny and just about anything green. We hope to see you there!

More on the day...aaarrrgggghhhh!!!

2009-06-17T21:36:00.002-05:00

So, I had to wake Ezekiel up from his nap early today to go to the hospital to get Malachi and see their newest cousin, Ivey. She was born at 3:09pm, weighing over 9 lbs., and longer than 22 in. Malachi was the only one to actually see her before we left for church. Tomorrow, we'll visit again.

Ezekiel was cranky for over an hour. When we sat down to dinner, Malachi went to the bathroom at church and didn't return for awhile. We found him in the bathroom with green poop all over his leg, shoe, back, etc. Church starts at 6:45. We left for home to bathe at 6:30. Malachi wanted to do it all himself (for the first time ever, only this time, the clock was not on our side). I got to church late (7:00). My pager went off at 7:30, which is supposed to mean Ezekiel, but it was Malachi with runny poop (in church). I was so blessed to have a man who adores our children and is a wonderful father, hanging with him until I could figure something out.

I got Z's pull-up. He was still wearing underwear! Malachi was, again, wearing a 2t pull-up while his little brother was wearing underwear. Poor Malachi!

When I got home, Ezekiel pooped in his underwear and then in his bedtime pull-up!

I am so tired of poop and running to the potty to pee with Ezekiel. I don't know if I want to see tomorrow. At least, I think, someone is giving me a phone, and I will be reconnected.

I am soooooo grateful that I was not working today. I ended the day with many laughs and smiles. Any other workday would have killed my nerves and driven me totally crazy. I'm thankful my child was sick like that while I was not at work, but this ALWAYS happens. Every summer break this happens (and sometimes other breaks as well).

I'M DONE!!!

Interesting Day (to say the least)

2009-06-17T14:23:00.002-05:00

Just so you know, Malachi's runs ended after his nap that day(of course, he was in Daddy's care then, so he didn't have to clean up all that I did).

Today, we took our time getting ready and then went to the hospital to see Felicia & Nathan. She went in at 6am to have labor induced. They also have a little girl that is 2 weeks younger than Ezekiel but a little bit bigger than Malachi. Funny, huh? Anywho, the boys love their little girl cousin and jumped at the chance to hang with her (wherever they were). Ezekiel has been potty training since Saturday. Yesterday, he stayed pretty much dry all day. Today, I didn't even put him in a pull-up when we left the house. We ran to the bathroom about 12 times (literally) in the 2-3 hours that we were there. On one of the trips, Z had just peed 5 minutes before but insisted that "Ize pee-pee in da potty." As we opened the door, Daniel called me. I was leaning over him (Ezekiel) while talking on the phone to help Z get his pants down, and guess what?

Down, went my phone!!! It was submerged in water literally for about 1.3 seconds (if that). It began to malfunction and now does not work. I think I might have slipped and said, "crap," in front of both my boys. No parent of the year award for me! There are much worse things, though, and I never say anything close to that normally. As long as Ezekiel doesn't start saying it like, "hush-yu-mouff" (hush your mouth), then it's not so bad---which, for the record, Daniel and I did NOT teach him that.

Now, I'm in a real dilemma. We are in the process of canceling our home phone. It should have already gone into effect but hasn't yet (thankfully). We didn't get insurance on my phone, so I'm trying to figure out a cheap way to get a phone back quickly. I think one of our friends from church will be giving me her old one, and I am so ok with that. As long as I can call and text people, I'm good. I should be back with a phone by tomorrow afternoon at the latest! What a great day :)

YUCK!

2009-06-15T13:41:00.002-05:00

So, Saturday, a small part of Sunday and today, Ezekiel has been in the process of potty training. He's doing pretty well---much better than Malachi in the first few days. He's only had one puddle on the floor thus far. We went to Target on Saturday and bought all 3 boys new underwear. Ezekiel got Diego. Malachi got boxer briefs of Transformers, and Daniel got well, not tidy whities.

Today, Malachi has had the diarrhea. He hasn't complained of a stomach ache, but he hasn't been able to make it to the potty in time. I've been cleaning up the runs all day. Now, I think they are sleeping. I'm tired of poop!

Ironically, my almost-4-year-old has been wearing a pull-up today, and my 2 year old has been wearing underwear. It has been a fun, first day off for me :)

I hope it gets better after nap!

Woo-hoo!!!

2009-06-11T21:10:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is my last day of school! I'm ready to spend the summer with my children. My boys need some discipline, and Ezekiel is ready to be potty-trained.

Daniel is itching a lot right now. He got bitten by one black ant on Tuesday. He went to the doctor on Wednesday. After the doctor looked at the 6 in. diameter swelled area on his arm and his swollen knees (previous problem), he was given 4 prescriptions. One was an antibiotic, another was a steroid, another was strong advil to use after the steroid, and then 2 epi-pens (just in case). He's doing much better, and I'm glad we didn't have to make an emergency room visit, but it stinks that he is so allergic to something like that.

I still can't believe how Ezekiel talks as well as he does. He will name just about any character, "Hammy Hammy" (Handy Manny) is still one of his favorites. The "wu-pets" (wonder pets) are also a personal favorite.

Malachi is gearing up for school in August. He still needs a pull-up to sleep at night, but I guess we'll tackle that one this summer, too. I'm not quite sure how to handle it all, but most of it will get done (as it does each summer).

Truly, though, my heart is at home with the boys. I would like to have more children, but it is hard that I can't totally control how they are raised. I want them to only take the right things and be spared (for awhile) from the bad. I'm just trusting the Lord that change will come. I would love to be a SAHM. Maybe in a couple of years we will be able to work that out. I'm praying for change.

Malachi's Party Plans

2009-05-31T20:40:00.002-05:00

Malachi's birthday is July 9th. I have a little time, but I also have 2 weeks of school left and an anniversary on June 22nd. So, I was talking with Malachi about what his "theme" should be. As it stands today...

"Green" party!

His favorite color! He doesn't want a Cars party, again. He doesn't really want a Mickey Mouse party like Ezekiel; however, he does want a Mickey Mouse cake. So, it looks like we'll have green drink, green (Mickey Mouse) cake, green plates, green cups, green decorations...you get the idea. I am kind of stoked about this. It saves $$$$$!!!! Generic stuff is so much cheaper than any Disney or Nickelodeon theme. I was worried he would chose Diego or Handy Manny. I think he may stick with that decision.

Not to mention, we can call it "going green" and people will think we are helping the environment (ha, ha, ha). I also like the idea of not endorsing a character but just having a good time. Malachi will be wearing green, I'm sure.

We'll see how it ends up :)

A few Malachi-isms for the road...

"ress" - just
"ever-one" - another one
Handy ManDy - sometimes instead of Handy Manny

A Day at the Zoo

2009-05-30T20:18:00.002-05:00

We went to the zoo today. It was nice to take the boys out, but it was stressful. Malachi enjoyed the giraffes the most. Ezekiel LOVED the elephants. We got some good pictures of animals but not many of people. I'm glad we went. the boys learned a lot, and it was fun to see them look at all the differences.

Pictures to come.

Let's go racin' boys - Part 2

2009-05-25T17:21:00.004-05:00

So, today we headed to the track again with little hopes of seeing a whole race, but Malachi went and sat for hours last night with nothing to show for it. He never saw any cars race.

We made it to about lap 180 after stopping for about 1 1/2 hours for rain and the drying of the track. We decided that after the 3 o'clock stop to honor those veterans who died that if it began raining again, we would leave. Malachi wasn't as well-behaved as the night before, but I felt so bad for him. He got jipped.

His Paw-Paw Phil went with us to the track yesterday and today. He was thoughtful enough to bring us rain coats. Malachi got a special Lightning McQueen poncho. Today we took lots of food and snacks.

Now that they just called the race and David Reutimann was the winner, it was time to post. We only missed about 40 laps or less, so I don't regret leaving when we did. I couldn't take anymore at the racetrack. I enjoyed it but if rain had not been an issue, it would have been different.

Here are some pics...

Let's go racin' boys!

2009-05-25T03:01:00.002-05:00

So, we tried to go to the race last night. We sat in the rain for 2-3 hours until they called the race for noon today. Malachi was so well-behaved, but I hate it for him. He wanted to see cars go around the track.

The worse thing was, we live like 4 miles from the track and had to drive over our shoulders just to get to our butt. In other words, it took us an hour and a half to get home and lots of state troopers.

I hope the race today is better and we don't have to pay to park again. Please rain, stay away!

Still Sick

2009-05-21T21:18:00.002-05:00

So, Monday night I was up every 1-2 hours with Ezekiel screaming b/c it hurt to breathe! Poor thing. The only thing that would calm him down was a breathing treatment and laying in my arms. Needless to say, I got no sleep in my bed and had to work hard in between all those hours to help the poor thing sleep.

He was doing better, but today he started to get a puffy, itchy eye. I finally broke down and took him to the doctor. The dr. gave him an antibiotic (shot). He was really whiny and cried about the shot for awhile, but after it had time to kick in and he got some dinner, he was a new boy. Praise the Lord!

I hope we are finished with the big mess and will be able to recover now. I've missed my workouts all week :(

Sick

2009-05-16T20:07:00.002-05:00

Last night (and especially this morning) both the boys had a snotty nose. Ezekiel's was much worse than Malachi's. Poor thing woke up last night, crying, because he couldn't breathe. He also seemed to have a slight fever. He got two doses of Advil today and his first breathing treatment in a month and a half.

I am so thankful that it just seems to be a cold and that Ezekiel has been healthy for about 2 months. It has been such a blessing to not have to worry about him everyday and whether he was feeling all right.

Thank you, Lord, for blessing us the past 2 months. Please, heal him now and keep him healthy.

Updates

2009-05-11T20:44:00.002-05:00

Happy Belated Mother's Day to all the moms out there! I had a few moments of deja-vu as I purposely put Ezekiel in the red & blue plaid shorts that Malachi wore on my first Mother's Day as a mom of 2. Ezekiel was 3 months old and wore blue plaid shorts that were similar but not matching.

Our lives have changed a lot since then. My very first Mother's Day as a mom came with my friend, Lesli. Malachi was 10 months, his buddy, Kyla was 3 months. Now Lesli had her first Mother's Day as a mom of 2. We've shared a lot together.

Malachi is doing well. He is talking more and more clearly. I think that he is pretty articulate for an almost-4-year-old. His speech has dramatically improved. He has fallen in love with Veggie cheese. We tried it over a year ago, and he just didn't care for it. Now, he loves having his "own cheese," and it is much better for him than cow's cheese. That is what I am somewhat glad for. Dairy really is not that good for you. It seems to have been a blessing in disguise that Malachi (& Ezekiel) drink soy milk, and don't have much dairy. I believe they are healthier for it. We're trying to cut some of that dairy out of our meals, too.

Daniel is on a mission to lose weight. I'm trying to join him. I have been gaining weight instead of losing it lately. I would ideally like to lose about 30 lbs. Yes, I can lose that much and be in great shape (like I was in high school). I would be happy with losing 15-20 lbs. Thankfully, I do carry my weight well, but I don't want to do that. I know that my body may not be the "same" after kids, but I would sure like to not use that as an excuse.

Ezekiel TALKS a lot!!! He will say things that I didn't know he could. He accidentally busted Malachi's lip tonight. He came running in the kitchen saying, "I sorry, Na-ky. I nnt mean to. I sorry, Na-ky." He can use some pronouns correctly. Lately, he will catch me at a quiet moment and say, "Momma, Momma, Momma," until I answer, "yes, Ezekiel," Z: "Mommy, I luff you!" You can understand what he says 90% of the time, and he is a sponge. I know that he talks much better than Malachi did at that stage.

There are only 21 days left of school!!! Now I need to find a part-time job to help make ends meet. We're planning on taking Malachi to the race, and taking both of them to the zoo. We're trying to keep the funds under control but still do a few nice things for the boys. I've been wanting to take them to the zoo for awhile.

One last thing...Ezekiel is HEALTHY!!!! How awesome is our God. He hasn't had a breathing treatment since the end of March, and we haven't heard any croop-y sounding coughs. Hallelujah!!!

Alligator Wrastelin'

2009-04-20T20:43:00.003-05:00

When we go places, we try NOT to do "touristy" things. We like to try restaurants off the beaten path and take in new experiences. Well, on the gulf coast, most of thos restaurants are seafood, and since I don't want to take my husband to the emergency room again, we tried a "touristy" place. The boys had a great time. There was live music, hula hoops, beach balls, a kid play area, food, and LIVE ALLIGATORS. Malachi was too scared to touch it at first. Ezekiel boldly went to "pet" the aaa-gay-der. After dinner, Malachi wanted to hold and get his picture with the al-gator, so we did. It was a little pricey, but it scanned pretty well. So, thank you to Fudpucker's in Destin. We had a great evening!

Beach Pictures

2009-04-17T16:57:00.010-05:00

Vacation Firsts

2009-04-15T14:56:00.003-05:00

We've been on vacation this week, sort of. We left after church on Sunday to head down to FL to visit my brother & his family (who will be moving to Japan for a few years in June). We spent the whole day inside on Monday, thanks to some severe thunderstorms. We packed up the camper yesterday, and my bro hauled it down to the beach. Today is just us. Tomorrow we leave.

Here are some firsts for our vacation in random order. It really has been quite the adventure.

Ezekiel has been sleeping out of a crib (and fell off a few times).
Malachi & Z have been sleep deprived (not really a vacation first). Malachi has not done so well.
Malachi has decided that in his bad moods, he would take it out on his Daddy.
Ezekiel got only about 20 minutes of nap yesterday and did ok, not great, but ok.
The boys CLEANED A PLATE at the restaurant for lunch yesterday. We ordered onion strings. Usually they don't like onions, but it didn't taste like onions, and they literally ate it all. Malachi kept dishing out the little pieces to he and Ezekiel. It was funny. I don't think I'd ever seen them do that.
They both slept late this morning. Finally, their internal clocks were over-ridden by exhaustion.
Malachi busted his lip in the trailer when he was supposed to be sleeping. He was jumping from his bed to the trundle (Z's bed) and now has a fat lip. It wasn't a little bust, it was a big bust. It looked like someone chewed on his lip violently. Gross. Thankfully, he actually held a cold pack on it and took it to bed. It seems to have helped some.
Malachi "swam" in the pool for the first time today. I went to the dollar store before we left and got a set of arm floaties for each of the boys. Malachi is TERRIFIED of water, but he didn't want to leave. Thankfully, Daniel was able to talk him into it, and he was very proud of himself. He said, "Mommy, I can swim now!"
Ezekiel LOVES to swim. He would take off with his little tube from the steps when Daniel wasn't looking. He wouldn't kick his feet a lot, but when he gets his ear tubes out, I hope to put him in arm floaties, too, and turn him loose.
There is an AWESOME pizza place across the street from the campground. They do not skimp on the toppings or cheese in the least! That is a new one.

*I broke my glasses!!! I only have one arm on them now. It's a good thing that I only wear them at night and in the morning or middle of the night.*

***Pictures to come when we get home.***

Dear Malachi,

2009-04-10T21:33:00.002-05:00

This is one of the hardest notes that I have written to you. The past few weeks, you have decided to throw fits. I don't mean little ones. I mean, screaming, crocodile tears, non-stop for at least 15 minutes. Those fits are usually over little things. I think we have discovered the "root" of these fits, but I won't have to tell you here. I'll remember for later.

We go through several days of fits until I can't take much more. This usually means a L.O.N.G. talk in the car-ride home & something drastic that we have to do (like going to bed without dinner - of course, after about 30min. that takes you to realize we mean business, then you can eat). I don't like these at all. I know that we have raised you to be polite & respectful and to accept "no" as an answer. You can't ALWAYS get what you want.

However, the next day, you are a perfect angel (like today). I wish we could have days like today all week long. It would make life so much less stressed. I love to praise you and hug you for doing the right things. I do NOT like to punish you. I don't like to punish anyone (even my students), but it is something that I feel that I have learned to do effectively.

Well, son, you are growing up so fast. You continue to improve on your speech. You are excited about going to school in August (4K). We have gotten free uniforms to last us through that year (unless you get an unexpected growth spurt). We are blessed, and so are you.

You love to pray for the food and at night before bed. Miss Nicki taught you "God Our Father." Anytime we talk about prayer, the first thing out of your mouth is, "Let's say, 'God Our Fa-ver.'" I love to see you say it at the dinner table (or at snack with your friends) with such fervency and eyes closed. It is such a blessing. I'm glad you like to pray.

And you L-O-V-E to sing, still. You and Ezekiel will belt some major tunes in the car or at home. Your favorite song is "I won't (don't want to) gain the whole world" by Toby Mac. You even call it "my song." It's funny that the song I wrote for you to the tune of Avalon's Adonai is now a distant memory to Toby Mac. I can't complain, though. As much as you like music (just like your momma), it is such a blessing to know that I don't have to worry about you singing inappropriate songs. You will sing almost any song on the radio, and that is a great thing.

I can't wait to see you turn 4. You've been expecting your birthday (July 9) to come since January, but you are waiting. I hope that we can move from the "trying threes" to the Fabulous Fours (?).

I love you, Malachi James. I am so thankful for you and the responsible nature that is within you. Many times you are so much more caring & thoughtful of others than I could ever hope to be. Keep that spirit with you always.

Much love,
Momma :)

Results

2009-04-02T20:47:00.003-05:00

The doctor finally called me yesterday afternoon with the biopsy results.

It is a confirmed benign tumor. It should never become malignant but may grow (especially if more children are in our future). So, I'm cool with having a little extra something in me and not having it removed. I'm glad it is "nothing."

This experience has been a good one. I found out a lot about myself and my relationship with the Lord. God took something bad and turned it into good to draw me closer to him. How cool!

Biopsy

2009-03-30T16:41:00.003-05:00

Today was the biopsy day for the lump in my breast. Everything went well this morning. They took 3 samples. I am a little sore and am keeping the "ice pack" on the area. I haven't taken any Tylenol yet, so all is well. The doctor seemed pretty sure that it was benign after looking at it and taking the samples, but I will know for sure in the next day or 2. I cam home after the biopsy and took a nap. Daniel took me out to lunch. I came back home and took another nap. I've just been resting and watching tv. It's nice to have a "day off" even if I got poked with way too many needles this morning. All is well. If you don't hear anything else, then assume that no news is good news. I'm glad that there have been no complications, thus far. Praise the Lord!

Accidents happen, right?

2009-03-28T14:47:00.003-05:00

Malachi had an accident today. I don't know why. He hasn't had a pee-pee accident in MONTHS. I didn't have extra clothes for him, so he got to run around the church in a t-shirt and pull up. Yes, his shoes & socks were wet, too. After working at the church for a little while, Z & I ran to a local consignment shop and picked him up a nice-looking & nice-smelling pair of pants for less than $3.

Why in the world would he have an accident? Maybe he was upset because his momma was rushing out the door this morning, and he wanted to spend time with her.

Why would that cause him to get upset? Maybe because his momma left him sleeping in bed on Wednesday morning and did not return until 10pm on Friday night.

Why would he be cranky for momma being gone? Maybe Momma told him she would wake him up at 10pm, Friday night to tell him she was home and give him a kiss, and then Malachi chose not to go back to sleep until almost midnight. I can't help it the kid missed me.

Hmmm... I think there is a correlation.

By the way, those of you who have been wanting to talk to me, I'm sorry. Last week was crazy and a learning process. This week was busy with cleaning, packing, taking 175 8th graders to the OBX of NC, and then practice for the Easter Trilogy starting tomorrow! Monday will be my biopsy day. Wow, just thinking about all that makes me tired! I did survive most of it already, though:)

Scary but a "God-thing"

2009-03-20T21:13:00.002-05:00

On Monday, I went to the OB/GYN for my yearly "womanly" appointment. While there, the doc discovered a lump in my breast. I was scheduled for an ultrasound on Friday (yes, I had to wait that long). The doc reassured me it was nothing but wanted to take the precaution. I believed her and went on my way. As I walked away and headed to my car, the weight of the situation began to hit me. I broke. Tears and doubts began to flood my brain like never before. It was scary to think of the future and a lump.

Daniel and I have been under immense pressure the past few weeks due to the opening of a satellite campus of First Assembly that we felt called to be a part of. Then, I got hit by the news. It was all I could do to keep it together (barely). Daniel and I ended up having an impromptu date night on Tuesday to help "clear our heads." It was nice and just what we needed.

Wednesday rolled around, and I was still struggling with the issue. I was supposed to "skip" church to go to another meeting and costume fitting. I chose not to go because I just felt that I needed to be in the Bible study. We have been focusing on the minor profits. Before the study, I thought that I was crazy and would get nothing from it, BUT most of the study was for me and my situation. It was freeing.

I woke up Thursday morning with peace in my heart and mind and great anticipation for Friday afternoon to see if all my fret was in vain.

Today (Friday) was my appointment at the Imagery center (in the same complex as Z's ENT and where his tubes were put in). Daniel, of course, went with me. As I watched on the monitor during the ultrasound, I could tell that it was more than just a normal "lump" by the way the tech was spending time on that spot and measuring and such. Then, the pics were taken to the doc. He came in for a look himself.

He told me that he was hoping it was a cyst (no problems, let it be). It wasn't that. It appeared to be a tumor. The good news was that it also seemed to be benign. He gave me 2 options, a needle biopsy with local anesthesia OR to go ahead and schedule a full removal of the .5cm area and surrounding, just to make sure. There is a small chance it is malignant, but the signs don't point there. Most likely, the needle test (which is what I chose) will show that it is benign, and we'll just keep a close eye on it for the many years to come. It is not expected to grow anymore.

So, on Monday, May 30th, I will go in again to the center to be locally numbed and have a needle stuck in me. Fun! I'm thankful that all seems to be going well.

Through all this I have been "finding myself" again and who I am in Christ. The past few years, I have had control of my life. God has constantly been calling me to trust him and let go of the reigns. I haven't. Now that I have been faced with an issue that I have no control over, whatsoever, I have begun to let go of the control issue in my life. I have such a peace. If it is malignant, then God knows, and I trust that He will provide total healing. If it is not, then I trust that all will be well in the future. I am using this time as a life lesson and relationship lesson. My stress levels have been much higher since August. I have taken life too seriously and tried to control my own life. The problem is, it is not mine to control. There has been such a weight lifted off my shoulders. I'm fine with whatever the outcome is.

As my teammate keeps reminding me, if it's not breast cancer, don't stress. The situation will be over soon. She's a breast cancer survivor. I've learned so much from her. She's one year from retirement, and has "done it all," for the most part. She's my sounding board and sound mind at work. I thank God for her. Now I truly can remind myself that life is short, and that God is in control. He deserves the glory for whatever happens in the next few weeks and months. He's worthy, & I am truly blessed.

Nothing New Right Now

2009-03-16T16:46:00.002-05:00

I have nothing "new" to report right now. We have been busy, and I am exhausted. I can't seem to find time to catch a break or get a breath before all the laundry piles up again or another school event happens. We have been trying harder to eat more at home and be healthier, but we can't with the crazy schedule.

Ezekiel is talking more than ever (as he does each week). Saturday, he came up to me while I was doing something (don't remember), and said, "Mommy, you doin'?" It was so cute!

I got upset this morning b/c Malachi wouldn't put his own clothes on for the 459th time today. I just started to cry. I was frustrated. Ezekiel had made me wrestle his clothes on, and I was tired at 7:15am. Z was in "timeout" in his crib when he noticed me crying. I realized later that he had stopped crying (and trying to pull his clothes off). He waited for me to finish fussing at Malachi and waited for me to pick him up. Then, he gave me the biggest (most wonderful) hug! I carried him into the bathroom where he kept an eye on me in the mirror. How sweet is that boy!

I just wish Malachi wasn't going through the TRYING THREES. Every morning and evening it is a battle to get clothes on and a battle to go poop (before he doesn't have time to go). It is routine. Why is it so difficult? I love that little boy so dearly. I just wish we were through these times sooner.

Grand Opening for Concord First Assembly 29North will be Sunday. There is a lot to do. I'm sure I won't get a nap that day. Maybe I'll plan on being "sick" on Monday. Just thinking about it makes me tired.

Recent Pictures & Snow Days

2009-03-02T14:49:00.008-05:00

I can't remember a time that we haven't been busy. Last month was an extremely trying time for us financially & emotionally, but the past few weeks have been very rewarding and enjoyable. The boys were able to use their birthday/Christmas money to go to Build-a-Bear on Friday. Ezekiel picked out a Bobcats uniform with a basketball. Malachi chose a fireman's uniform.

The boys enjoy taking baths together and playing with the toys. Malachi loves to "swim" in the tub, and, SURPRISE, "monkey see, monkey do."

Hey, there, cutie! Our big 3-year-old.
If you look closely at his left eye, you can see the scab he got when he dove into the corner of a table.

Who's cute? Our little 2-year-old.

This was our "snowman" from about 2 weeks ago. The snow would not pack, and I can't take credit for this little snowman, anyway. A neighbor from down the street came out to play with Malachi, and this is all they could do with about 30 minutes. I told you, the snow didn't want to pack. It was too powdery.

Today, we got our 3rd snow this year. It was preceded by 2 days of rain & about 2 hours of freezing rain. It made it pack well but very slushy. Of course, we had no school today. This was my quick attempt at a snowman. It has already melted & while we were making it, Kiev kept knocking it over and eating the eyes, nose, mouth, etc. No fun!

This video is the day after his party. I was trying to get Ezekiel to talk about his party the way he had earlier, but, of course, he didn't cooperate. Malachi enjoyed being in the spotlight. The Foof chair is always a favorite place to play.

Ezekiel's Birthday

2009-02-21T22:09:00.003-05:00

Ezekiel celebrated his 2nd birthday today with party and special events. He is so fun to play things up with. We started a few days ago working on teaching Ezekiel that he is going to be TWO. Yesterday, I took the boys to the party store to get the supplies for the party today. Malachi & I ended up singing happy birthday to him in the check out line. How fun:)

We had worked hard on Thursday night to get some serious cleaning done. We were working even harder last night...then Daniel decided we needed to paint the second bathroom Which, it actually didn't take that long to paint, and we got to bed about 11:30pm. Not too shabby.

Today, Daniel had to work a few hours at the church before the party at 10:30am. Yes, I said 10:30! It was great!!! All I had to do was get showered and put the veggie tray together. Daniel bakes and iced the Mickey Mouse cake last night (after painting). The family & friends arrived. Daniel put out the bounce house, which the kids LOVED. We did Mickey Mouse stamped fingers. Then it was have snacks, cut the cake, and open presents. We were done by noon, and we didn't have to feed anyone a full meal.

Of the 5 birthday parties I have "planned" as a mom, and the numerous I have attended in the past few years, this was by far the best! I was worried about having it at our little house, but it all worked out well. I can't say that our neighbors appreciated our crowded little street or the noisy bounce house before 11am, but we had a great time!

When we got Ezekiel up this morning, we sang to him (all 3 of us). He wore his favorite Mickey Mouse t-shirt that he got for Christmas. AND we were lucky enough to have "story-time" Saturday on Disney, so it was 2 hours of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse while I got ready and made a few finishing touches before people began arriving. It's unusual for me to allow them to watch that much tv, but I knew they would be busy, and I didn't want them running all over the house early.

Ezekiel loved the singing of Happy Birthday and would insert his name as he sung it on his own, occasionally. Mickey Mouse was an excellent theme. He didn't get a ton of stuff, and it was all useful and loved by the boys. Not to mention, he brought in over $50 cash. Target & Build-a-Bear will love us.

This evening we took Ezekiel for his favorite meal of pizza to one of our former frequenting spots. We splurged (because we haven't been out to eat in a long time) and got pizza, lasagna, garlic knots, & cheesy garlic bread. All-in-all it was a fabulous day, and I couldn't have imagined a better experience of Ezekiel on his 2nd birthday.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Ezekiel Luke!!!

Money! Ezekiel shared with his great-grandma.

Malachi & Renee wanted to help Ezekiel play with his toys.
Renee is Ezekiel's "girlfriend." They hug on each other and love to play together.
There are already people in Renee's family planning the wedding:)

Ezekiel wanted to keep showing Grandpa his new toys.

Daniel blew up the Bounce House. Ezekiel, Malachi, Riley, & Isiah had a great time jumping.

Mickey Mouse birthday cake

Malachi-isms

2009-02-19T21:10:00.002-05:00

Today, I told Malachi to go wash his hands. He went to the bathroom, turned the water on high & hot, and began to wash. He then said, "Mommy, pull my hands up!" Meaning: pull my sleeves up. How funny!

"Broccoli, Sara Lee, gotta be, VeggieTales." - Celery

Conversations with Ezekiel & Malachi

2009-02-06T20:53:00.003-05:00

At dinner tonight...

Z - (pooted) I poot
Daniel - yes, you did
Me - say excuse me
Z - skooz - ee, I poot
Z - I poot (much louder and in the cutest voice)
M & D - lots of giggles (tried to suppress them but only encourage the Z-man)
Z - Daddy, I poot! I poot! I poot!

At 4:45am (this morning)...

Malachi - (knock, knock, knock) Mommy!
Me - (opens door) What's wrong, sweetie?
MJ - Mommy, I said bleh in my bed.
M - did you through up in your bed.
MJ - Yes, I said bleh in my bed.
M - did you get any on you?
MJ - No, I said bleh on my bed.
M - OK. go lay on the couch while I clean it up.
(Thankfully, it wasn't much and he felt better by about 10am.)

Random-ness

2009-01-31T20:42:00.006-05:00

A conversation with Malachi about a week ago...

MJ - "Mommy, I'm getting big."
Mom - "Yes, you are."
MJ - "My legs are getting big."
Mom - "Yes, they are sweetie!"
MJ - "My legs are as big as yours, Mommy!!!"
Mom - "Yes, dear, thank you:)"

Fun outside on a warm December day, playing with Christmas presents

Hey, Mommy!

All aboard the Choo-choo frain.

Chu-chu-chu-chu-choo-choo

Snow & Dentist

2009-01-30T20:22:00.006-05:00

Last Tuesday (day after MLK, Jr. Day), we had about 2 inches of snow with some rain underneath that caused a little bit of ice. So, there was no school. AND IT WAS MY BIRTHDAY!!! I enjoyed hanging out with my boys and having a leisurely dinner that evening when everything had melted. Here are some pictures of both the boys "playing" in snow for the first time in their short, little lives.

Malachi was almost afraid of the snow. Ezekiel enjoyed walking through it and kicking a ball into the street. Go figure.

Also, on Wednesday (this week), Malachi had his first dentist appointment. He sat and watched me first. I tried to show him how "unpainful" it was. He wouldn't sit in the seat by himself. He sat with me. He was all right for the first 5 minutes. After that, I had to use one of my legs to restrain his from kicking. I used one arm to restrain his arms for flailing, and I used the other arm to keep his head as still as possible. He fought through half of the "brushing," all of the flossing, and all of the fluoride treatment. Then he picked out stickers & toothbrushes for he and Z. He was fine after that. Here's a picture of how splotchy and red he was when it was finished.

BUT...Since then, he has talked about and asked me to help with brushing in circles. Last night he let me floss his teeth. Tonight he wanted me to floss his teeth. Wow!!! He'll do fine next time. He doesn't like new things, so once it is over once, he tends to remember and be better.

We also found out at this appointment that he has two teeth that grew in fused together. She said his grown-up teeth should not follow suit. She said that since his teeth were so close together we need to floss at least a few times a week, and that it was highly likely he would need braces due to his mouth being tight before the big teeth come in. Yay! I can see the bills piling up already. J/K;)

P.S. I know I never finished Christmas pictures. I'll have to get on that one day sometime soon (lots of sarcasm intended).

-isms

2009-01-18T21:43:00.003-05:00

Malachi-isms

"It's a-hind me." We're working on BEhind instead of a-hind.
"I have full hands!" - My hands are full.
"My-lick-ky" - Malachi
"Zee-kiel" - Ezekiel
I love you like a Licky (what you do when you stick out your togue and lick your mouth). It's a long, silly story that our 3 year old turned a funny phrase into a new obsession. How cute!
"nu-ver" - never

Ezekiel-isms

"Ky-kyyy" - Malachi
"da-que, Mommy" - Thank you, Mommy (or any others)
"bwa-ka-wee, seg-a-ree, ga-ga-bee, weggi-whales" - Broccoli, Celery, gotta be, VeggieTales
"Ba-paw" - Grandpa
"Ba-ka-maa" - Spiderman
"Zee-kull" - Ezekiel
"Dat skeer me" - That scared me
"Yays" - Yes
"kweem" - Lightning McQueen
"ta-tart" - Poptart - his breakfast of choice that he asks for every single morning by name
"piece-aah" - pizza

In Memory

2009-01-06T11:20:00.003-05:00

Last night we lost a very dear loved one. Daniel's grandfather passed away about 8:30pm last night. It wasn't totally unexpected, but we expected him to live a little longer. Now he is with his Savior, worshipping at his feet. I can't lie that I am a little jealous, but we miss him here on earth so much. It was hard and took a lot of thought as to how we were going to explain it to Malachi. He took it well, but I don't think Daniel did. Daniel is now the spiritual leader of his whole family. I know he understands and is much more stable than many in his family, but it doesn't make it much easier. We have been caring for Daniel's grandmother and will continue to make sure that she is all right. She is doing well for the circumstance. They were married for over 50 years.

The boys will miss wrestling with you, Paw-Paw. Daniel will miss your songs and jokes. We'll see you again, Paw-Paw Bill! We can't wait to be reunited with you and are encouraged that all the pain has left your body. We miss you.

-Daniel, Morgan, Malachi, & Ezekiel

Christmas Pics

2008-12-31T16:24:00.004-05:00

Ok. So here are some of the pictures from Christmas. You probably don't care to see them all, so I'll just chose a few.

On Christmas Eve-Eve we let the boys open one present each. We chose their Wonder Pets items. The next mid-morning (Christmas Eve) we let the boys open their other 2 presents under the tree from us. Malachi got a Spiderman costume & HiHo Cherry-O to play with others. Ezekiel got a box with 4 different sets of 2-car trains & a pull (with a string) Thomas with 2 cars. That Evening Uncle David, Aunt Chelle, Grampa & Grammy came over for dinner and presents. The boys got mega blocks and lots of Cars stuff & a few Micky Mouse (for Z).

Christmas day started with a few little things in the stockings at our house and the reading of the Bible story of Jesus' birth. We then went to Great-grandma Carol's for breakfast and fun with Grandpa Rick, Nana, Aunt Miranda, Aunt Tabith, & Uncle Ricky. The boys got a racing/crashing cars set, other Cars stuff, and a stocking full of goodies. They have several favorites but enjoy the Cars "bistro" set just for them and the 2 lap tables.

After breakfast we headed to Grandpa Phil's house with Grandma Cathy, Great-grandma Geraldine & Aunt Krisitin to eat lunch and the second round of presents that day. The boys got tractors and a car to play with outside. They also got a train set, globe, and a few other things.

We were exhausted after the day and had no need for dinner, but we had a great time. It's nice to have the holidays to be with family.

I'm Stuffed

2008-12-28T22:29:00.002-05:00

It's all over now. I'll post pictures soon. I've got a lot to get accomplished in the next week. I'm not sure how it is all going to get done. We are overloaded with toys and goodies after the holidays. Daniel and I have been deciding where to put the addition to the house for all the BIG toys the boys racked up at Christmas.

Both the boys are feeling better, but Malachi's drippy nose has been hanging on. Ezekiel had a pretty nasty cold a little over a week ago. Malachi caught it, and it lead to an ear infection. He woke up from his nap on Christmas Eve-Eve with 102.4 fever. It's funny that with all his horrible symptoms, he never complained of an ear infection. Apparently, Ezekiel had a "sort-of" ear infection with some drainage out of his tubes, too. We had to get drops for that. I hope that all will go much better over the next week.

On Christmas morning, We read the Christmas story and talked about it being Jesus' birthday. We asked the boys if they wanted to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Ezekiel immediately started singing the birthday song, so we put in Jesus' name.

"Wrestling" Daddy

2008-12-21T21:38:00.004-05:00

Malachi said that he wanted to wrestle Daddy. It turned into, "let me stand on his back and jump off while counting." And, yes, he is wearing a Bob the Builder outfit handed down from friends at school. Of course, Ezekiel had to get in on the action, too.

The Christmas Parties Have Begun

2008-12-21T21:12:00.003-05:00

We have A LOT of FAMILY around us, SO we had our first family Christmas party today. The boys had fun with their cousins on Daniel's Dad's side. It was a 2pm (so not good for naptime), so Malachi had no nap, and I tried to put Ezekiel down early. It kind of worked. Malachi was fine. Z was not horrible but oh-so irritable. It doesn't help that Z has been getting over a HORRIBLE cold (although, Z's colds are always bad. He rarely has easy colds and gets them often). Anywho. Malachi has caught his cold (& Daniel, too). There weren't a lot of presents (which none of us minded), but we did have a good time. The boys got pj's & matching Mr. Potato Heads. We've got plans for Christmas Eve & day. I've also got plans with lots of friends. More to come.What you can't tell from this picture of Ezekiel in the background is that he kept throwing the paper from his presents on the floor to try to mimic what Daddy had done with his wrapping paper towards his dad.

Wonder Pets

2008-12-15T21:00:00.004-05:00

As we got out the Christmas decorations, we came across our little red & green towels that we usually put on the stove. After hanging in that spot for a few days, Malachi thought that the red & green would make great capes. He called he and his brother Wonder Pets (one of their favorite shows right now. In fact, when I took the boys to Toys R Us to scope out what there was to be had and decide on what we really wanted to get the boys on our little budget, Malachi kept going on and on and on and on about the Wonder Pet's flyboat. It's a good thing we bought that for him, because he still has his heart set on it 3 weeks later). I grabbed 2 safety pins left over from the 5.2 million I have after each Calvary Kid's Consignment Sale. Malachi & Ezekiel had a great time pretending they were Tuck & Ming-Ming. I was actually surprised that this was the first time that we had created capes for our boys.

Word Explosion

2008-12-14T21:01:00.002-05:00

Ezekiel has had an explosion of words and thoughts lately. He's saying thank you all the time and sorry when he does something wrong. He'll respond to some questions with "ok." It's good conversations and thoughts. He's had the ability and has talked in ununderstandable sentences for sometime, but to understand more and more what he is saying is just precious. It's like all of a sudden he realized how to talk to us in complex thoughts. I love this time in their lives. 18 months on is just a blast! I like the early months, but there is just something special about being there when they are taking in so much information and figuring out how to use it.

"Wa-woo" - water
"Ga-gi-go-goo" - God is so good (the song)
"eye-di-ooo" - I love you
"da-kyoo" - thank you

just to name a few