Noonan News!

Bright eyes

2012-02-12T01:50:00.000-05:00

Lydia's growing like a weed and bringing us smiles with her joy in life. She's 9 months now and weighs in a whopping 16lbs and some ounces. She's just started getting on all fours and yesterday I left her on the floor on her belly and when I came back she was sitting up. She's eating little bites of table food like avocados, nectarines, carrots and whatever she can gum to bits with her two front bottom teeth. The top two middle teeth are starting to peek through and she has her own special excited face. Tonight she led a family jump lesson in her johnny jump up with Lucy, Samuel and daddy jumping along ---she loves her siblings and they love her!

On all fours - it won't be long.

All bundled up for our Saturday walk to the grocery store - it was a cold walk today!

Sweetie Girl

2012-02-12T01:11:00.004-05:00

Lucy and Daddy went to Chick-fil-A for daddy-daughter date night last weekend. Lucy was so super excited to go - she carefully thought about what she would wear, what she would do (she carefully put a tiger and chapstick in her purse) - I was so glad she was excited about spending time with her daddy. Jeremy said they had a wonderful time. Lucy was so excited she got to have ice cream at CFA and that she got to go to the basketball game at daddy's school with her.

Today sweet Lucy played with her paper dolls she got for her birthday last year - she also made up songs for everything that happened - I love her imagination and her wonder at the simple and important things in life.

Geographical laughter

2012-02-11T22:37:00.004-05:00

My children have found their new favorite country. Can you guess what it is? Come on - think about a 6 year old boy laughing hysterically...you can do it...

YEP - their new favorite country is Djibouti. Pronounced (JA-BOOTY)

We have a world map over our dining room table and a globe that asks geography questions - we talk about the world quite a bit. Their discovery of Djibouti brought laughter and little booty shaking to the Saturday evening activities. We know there are a lifetime of adventures to be had and we are loving exploring with them.

Deep thoughts

2012-02-04T16:25:00.003-05:00

Before work last night I was changing Lydia's diaper and talking with Samuel

Samuel: "Mama, I wish sin had never come into the world."
Mama: "Me too buddy - what made you think of that?"
Samuel: "Well, if sin had never come into the world I could take Lydia on the top bunk of the bunk bed and play with her and carry her around and she would never die. I wouldn't have to worry about hurting her even when I was just playing with her."
Mama: "That's a good desire buddy"

Tonight while Lucy and Daddy were away for daddy-daughter date night at CFA - Samuel and I had a long time to talk - I love that kid.

Samuel: "What I want to know is - how can you go to the 4 corners of the world because the earth is round and doesn't have 4 corners?"

After a discussion about the use of black and white and color in the Wizard of Oz (insights by Samuel) he stated - "It's amazing that everything in the world has color."

"Why do days take so long when a minute isn't so long?"

The play of children

2012-02-01T06:04:00.000-05:00

This morning before school Lucy and I were playing Littlest Pet Shops. She sadly informed me that the cat and bunny were two teenagers living alone because their parents died. I told her how sad and asked her what happened.
She said "Their parents died in the Civil War"
I thought - "Wow, maybe we've had a bit too much history around here" when Lucy said
"Yep, Mama, in the Civil War between the Calico Critters and the Littlest Pet Shops their parents died. It is very sad."

Glad I missed out on that battle - oh the minds of our little ones -

Laundry

2012-01-31T23:16:00.002-05:00

"Hey, Mama, Can I help you fold this laundry?"
"Good, I'll just work on these PJ's!"
"OK, maybe I'll just sit here, chew on the clothes and look cute - sound like a good deal?"

Night Owl

2012-01-31T23:08:00.001-05:00

The last time I pulled an all-nighter was back in 1994 - my first go around in college. It was finals week of my freshman year at FSU and I really needed to cram for my college Algebra exam. Do you remember this Erika? We stayed up all night studying and I just about fell asleep during the exam that morning because I was so tired. I vowed never to pull an all-nighter again - some sleep was better than whatever I might try and cram in my little head.

Since then I've traveled on trains across Europe (and gotten pick-pocketed while I slept), I've written papers until the wee hours of the morning, I've been up for much of the night in my PJ's with a child in my arms or snuggling with a newborn but I've never stayed up without atleast a nap. I'm just not a night person - even early on in our marriage I made a gentle suggestion that if there was any deep conversation to be had - it should be had before 9 pm (my dear husband doesn't share my inability to talk deep philosophy after dark).

But recently I've been pulling all-nighters - for real ones. I've become a night-shifter in the ER and I'm surviving. I'm not sure I will ever get used to it but for now I'm making it and my family is being super supportive. So if you don't hear from me for a while it's because I can't remember what time it is for the rest of the world - is it 02:00 or 14:00? - and I'm living life in that twilight just before bed or the morning after pulling an all-nighter...while trying to play Littlest Pet Shops, change diapers and finish First-Grade homework...the real work I love.

Jumping bean

2012-01-31T22:27:00.003-05:00

First real big girl haircut

2012-01-31T22:12:00.003-05:00

Before -

After -

Today Lucy got her first real big girl haircut at a 'salon'. She got about 4-5 inches cut off but there is still so much hair! When we got home we had tea outside and enjoyed the daffodils in the yard and the beautiful day together - I love my sweetie girl!

Cuteness uncovered

2012-01-22T09:38:00.004-05:00

Sweet Prayers

2012-01-15T20:25:00.002-05:00

These were the prayers my children prayed tonight.

Lucy - "Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that we got to have Cheetos for lunch. Thank you that we got to praise you today. Please help Eden with her heart surgery and help the doctors to take good care of her.

Samuel - "Dear Heavenly Father, please help Eden's brother, Josiah, to behave for his grandparents and for Titus to drink from a bottle. Thank you that I got to spend time with my family today and that I get to spend time with them tomorrow."

AMEN!

We are praying for cousin Eden's surgery this week - read more here

Eating carrots

2012-01-10T10:00:00.003-05:00

Fast and furious

2012-01-10T09:52:00.002-05:00

1 rolling happy 8 month old with a desire to put everything in her mouth
plus +
1 broken vacuum cleaner
plus +
Unusually warm weather for older siblings to enjoy being outside and tracking in all sorts of natural things
equals =
1 Mama finding Christmas tree parts, leaves and a ladybug in happy 8 month old's mouth.

If you've tried to call in the last 3-4 weeks - well, the phone is out and the internet has been hit or miss - just keep trying. We are here - praying Lydia doesn't crawl until she's 4 years old.

Quotes

2012-01-05T21:35:00.002-05:00

Tonight we were all sitting on the couch talking and Samuel says -

"I don't want to be THE president (for a brief moment I was surprised and wondered what he wanted to be and he quickly replied), I want to be THE government...I want to make the laws"

After a discussion that involved assassinations of presidents and the secret service Lucy says

"I don't want to be in the secret service. I want to be a cowgirl."

THE government and a cowgirl - sounds like Lydia's got a wide open field of possibilities to choose from.

Just Looking

2012-01-05T14:49:00.001-05:00

Quotes

2012-01-02T10:54:00.002-05:00

Yesterday afternoon Samuel was watching football with Jeremy. After seeing a score of 42-3 or something like that he exclaimed -

"They have this game in the bucket!"

probably meant "They have this game in the bag" - but a bucket will work.

Sweet punkin's first Christmas

2011-12-29T15:39:00.004-05:00

Samuel and Lucy were excited this was Lydia's first Christmas...and she brought us much joy!

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-29T15:15:00.001-05:00

We made a quick trip to Grandma and Papa's farm for Christmas. Christmas eve and Christmas Day were spent with family and especially the cousins -

Singing "Go Tell it on the Mountain" on Christmas Eve
After baths - all clean and ready for Christmas
The cousins -
The cute crew
Grandma reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and "When Joy Came" the two books Uncle Casey and I read every Christmas eve growing up.

Quotes

2011-12-29T14:31:00.002-05:00

Samuel got dressed to go to school the day of his Christmas party and pulled out some 'way too short' pants. To add to the outfit he put on the 'way too big' t-shirt he got from the running club at school. I was fine with him wearing the shirt but the pants were way too short. I asked him to go change into some longer pants and he replied

"But, Mama why do you care if people see my ankles?"

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T06:02:00.002-05:00

Mommy Thoughts

2011-12-18T21:45:00.002-05:00

The last few weeks have been a blur but as I look back there are pictures and thoughts stuck in my mind.

Standing in the back of church next to the window today holding Lydia. Our shadow hit the floor in the bright morning sun as the pastor prayed, as I drank in the warmth of the sun and the peacefulness of the moment.

Realizing I don't sing many lullabies to Lydia or certain songs because my voice isn't as strong, high or able to sing as it was pre-thyroidectomy/pre-cancer. Humming more, rocking more, savoring more in the still moments in the same purple recliner I held Samuel and Lucy in.

Gaining confidence as an ER nurse. I face tough circumstances throughout the day, literal life and death but the toughest thing by FAR is the having to leave my kiddos to go. I can handle any manner of craziness but I fall to pieces when one of my own says "Mommy, can't you stay home with me today?" "Mama, when do you get Christmas break?"

Last week for St. Nicholas Day we took cookies and cards to the nursing home. Samuel and Lucy gave hugs and asked the residents questions and talked to them. I sat with them and let some of the ladies hold Lydia - it was a joy to see my children bring others joy.

Each night we sing Christmas hymns - I have loved hearing my children sing songs and enjoy the music of the season - especially Go Tell it on the Mountain - we have our own version of the song with some clapping and singing - certainly joyful. And O come, O come Emmanual is a hit this year. Samuel is a reading machine and can follow along with anything. Lucy isn't so good remembering the first part but when the REJOICE! REJOICE! comes at the end - she sings at the top of her lungs - love the joy....wish I could bottle it up and save it but its so fleeting, so hard to grasp. I just have to savor the moment and soak it up.

Sunday afternoon naps are wonderful!

I'm a terrible gift giver. I'm not sure if I over think or don't think enough. I never can think of something to give those I love the most or need/should/want to get for. Hopefully the goat we're getting will be good (through World Vision NOT for our own yard) but the other stuff needs to work itself out really soon - one more week.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-16T12:48:00.003-05:00

May the gift of Christ bring you tidings of Comfort and Joy this Christmas!

With Love (and the hope of actual snail mail Christmas cards for you next year) - The Noonan's

Quotes

2011-12-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

In a syrupy sweet voice that only an excited little girl can use, Lucy says "Mama, I just can't stand her!" What she means to say is "She's so cute I just can't stand it!" but it comes out "I just can't stand her!"

My little philosopher -

Samuel " What I want to know is how can you love with your heart. Your heart is just a pump that pumps blood through your body so how do you love with it? I mean, I really want to know this"

Samuel "I'm so glad to be a human! I think that alot and then I say in the back of my head - 'why are you saying that, why are you saying I'm glad to be human?' And then in my head I try to figure it out. I mean, I'm really glad I'm not that basket over there or the chair - I'm glad to be a human!"

Christmas Program

2011-12-07T06:47:00.004-05:00

Lucy's Christmas program was last night. What a sweet evening to celebrate Christmas and see Lucy enjoy singing! She loved the stage. Is anyone surprised? And was super cute in her new nightgown. The song she has been singing around here to prepare was "O Come Let Us Adore Him" (complete with hand motions) and an arrangement of "Joy to the World" it turned out wonderfully. Here is my sweetie girl.

Angel

2011-12-04T21:53:00.001-05:00

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-04T20:49:00.003-05:00

Our tree has been up this week and the children worked on decorating throughout the week - they have been a joy to watch. A reminder of the preciousness of the little things that make times like this special.

Quotes

2011-12-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

One day last week after I picked up Samuel from school we went to Publix to get some hot chocolate to drink that evening for snack. As we walked out into the cold afternoon and got into the van I said

Mama: "I think we should have hot chocolate now and not tonight"

Samuel: "You mean right now?"

Mama: "well, when we get home we can have some."

Samuel: "How about right now (singing) And like a good neighbor State Farm is there with some hot chocolate!

I guess he's seen a few too many State Farm commercials while watching football games with Daddy.

Cops Fun Run

2011-11-14T21:14:00.002-05:00

This past Saturday was Samuel's first race. He's been excited about running and at school he has been beating his personal records for running around the track. So we ventured to the high school where he raced with all of the other first grade boys in the county in a run sponsored by the police department. Samuel had a great time and even kept running when his shoe fell off. I'm hoping he keeps up the running - he hopes I keep letting him run in his holey jeans - he says they make him run faster!

Ready to run!
And they're off. They made the starting line on the field and then around the track.
Samuel running with his shoe in hand.

Two turkeys

2011-11-13T21:04:00.002-05:00

Samuel and Lucy each had to decorate a turkey to take to school this week...can you guess who's is who's?

Adventures of the moment

2011-11-07T18:02:00.002-05:00

I've been home sick the past couple of days so I'm slower, not as apt to be trying to accomplish something (though there is plenty to do) and able to observe the adventures my children are having off in the yard or in some corner of the house.

On Friday I sat on the porch with Lydia while Jeremy read and wrote in his journal and the big kids played in the yard. I just had to laugh at my little story makers. I guess we were a part of a movie Samuel was making. He directed each of us on our parts to play - Daddy was running the camera and directing Lucy's character, Lucy was to do the sound effects for 3 minutes and then take over as the mean witch for 2 minutes "and not a moment more", I was to take over for the scary sound effects when Lucy had to be the witch, Samuel was the main soldier character - I'm not sure of the story line with this theatrical performance but it was comical to watch it all take place and for me to wonder what it will be like when he really does have a camera or mastery over his pen to make his wild imagination come to life on paper or on the screen. I joined in the creative process and made scary noises from the porch while the children performed their parts in the yard. Oh what fun imaginations can have with the blank canvas of a beautiful fall day and the full mind of a 6 year old hard at work.

So Saturday morning when they wanted to head outside and play I was eager to follow them and see what adventures were taking place....

Samuel was again a soldier -

And Lucy and her trusty sidekick, Lucky, entered a horse show where Lucky won first prize. She tried hard to get brother to be a Sheriff but Samuel said "I'm not in that time in history". Lucy used her lasso and loved on her horse and played and played.

Time with Daddy

2011-11-05T18:17:00.000-04:00

I caught Lydia hanging out with Daddy Saturday morning listening to some Fernando Ortega. Daddy loves music and has passed on his love to all of his children - he's starting out early with this one...

Look what I got!

2011-11-05T14:36:00.006-04:00

Do you want to see what I got? Come a little closer

Do you see 'em? Maybe a little bit closer...

How about now? Can you see them - they are my first two teeth! I got both of them on the bottom at the same time - WOW!

I love this growing up stuff it is so much fun!

Lydia's first two teeth have arrived. Here they are...the bottom two front teeth. They decided to come in at the same time and Lucy and Samuel are so excited for her they can't seem to keep their fingers out of her mouth because they want to feel them. She growing up and getting cuter everyday!

Cousins

2011-11-02T11:40:00.005-04:00

This is Lydia (6 months), Cooper (2 weeks), Titus (3 months) and Mason (1 1/2 months)

Five Crazy kids!
Despite the circumstances, our time in Florida was good. The children had such a great time with all their cousins (Samuel and Lucy loved playing with Shay and Brielle). I was so glad to finally meet Mason and kiss those cheeks - and I realized how much I love 2 year old little boys - I could just put Wyatt in my pocket and take him home with me. They're a mess, they're TROUBLE, but they are so darn cute and full of energy and life...so are my three - I just love watching them grow.

This is Titus and Lydia - hillarious!

Fall leaves

2011-11-02T05:20:00.005-04:00

We have spent the last couple of weeks enjoying the leaves and fall weather and time together. The children loved raking the leaves last week and jumping into the pile of leaves. They ran around with the rakes following behind catching a handful of leaves and then for a while I pretended to throw a ball to them and they would run down the hill and slide into the pile - so much fun!

Fun with a cousin

2011-11-01T18:35:00.003-04:00

Aunt Kim and cousin Thomas came for a visit Sunday. The children had a great time and it was good to visit for a while - Thomas is growing up too fast!

Fall is here!

2011-11-01T09:21:00.004-04:00

So around here I'm enjoying pumpkins with my punkins! Lucy and I made pumpkin muffins for our neighbors and teachers and classmates.

and Lydia loved sitting with the pumpkins in our front yard.

And Samuel - can't believe how grown up my biggest punkin is getting. He's loving the fall leaves and the afternoons outside! Also - I keep finding acorns and leaves all over our floor in the house - either we have squirrels in our house or my children are hording acorns and sticks inside for those cold winter days....

We went 'reverse trick-or-treating' in our neighborhood on Sunday night and took muffins to our neighbors. We haven't met many of our neighbors so it was a chance to meet them. The neighborhood is older and most of the people here have lived here for 30+ years. It was a great way to meet them. Lucy liked that we were giving out the recipe with the muffins and pointed out to all the older ladies how they could make the muffins too and eat them with their sweet tea. When one lady said "I think I'll eat them with my coffee in the morning" Lucy replied "I guess if you want to!" with an attitude like - "ok lady, whatever, but sweet tea is better"

Amazing Grace

2011-10-15T20:51:00.012-04:00

The third verse of Amazing Grace says -

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

This morning Grace lead my grandpa Kinsey home. Home to be with his heavenly Father - the giver of all Grace - home to see his wife of 65 years, with no more hurt, in a new body with a sound mind. He ended his battle with Alzheimer's on this earth and leaves a family who remember him with much love, respect and joy. A family who has seen the faith and love of a man who has been truly changed by Grace and are grateful for the gift of his life. It is because of Grandpa's faith that I know more fully the person of Grace - Jesus.

And on Wednesday when we remember Grandpa's life and sing his favorite song, Amazing Grace, I'll be thinking of him joyfully singing 'God's praises' ... and him humbly saying as he often did "better than I deserve" - "I'm better off than I deserve"

When we've been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.

Lydia's Baptism

2011-10-09T20:24:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful day with family and friends as we observed Lydia's baptism. All of the grandparents were here, and the Coon's and Mrs. Cris joined us at the church and then at home for a special time together and lunch. We are grateful to the Lord for our family and friends and for the church he has provided for us to be a part of.

We love our sweet (but sinful) children and hope and pray that one day each of them would grow to know and understand the love of their heavenly Father for them - that they would repent and receive the Lord's grace and mercy in Christ. By having them baptized as infants (Samuel and Lucy were both baptized as babies) we do not believe they are becoming Christians - they obviously have no idea what is happening at this time - but we trust the Lord will draw them to Himself.

We pray for wisdom to teach them about the abundant life the Lord has for them and look forward to being part of this journey - teaching them of God's goodness in the good news.

Nana visits

2011-10-09T20:04:00.004-04:00

Nana, Jeremy's mom, came to visit this weekend and we were so glad she could come. We enjoyed having her here and hope she can come again soon. On Saturday we ventured to Sweetwater Park and decided to take the quicker route to the falls along the river - it was a much harder trail than we anticipated - really not a trail at all but climbing over rocks and bouldering much of the way. Nana was a trouper and carried Lydia the whole time in the baby bjorn. We were glad to take the longer easier way back and decided we won't take that route again until Lydia is Samuel's age. Samuel LOVED the trail and thought it was awesome - love to see him enjoying the adventure.

What an adventure we had! Nana was joining us for the weekend to celebrate Lydia's baptism and hang out for a while - she didn't know she'd get some extreme hiking time. Thanks for coming Nana -

Cookies

2011-10-04T05:07:00.004-04:00

Mama's been introducing new foods lately but I'm not so good at keeping any of them in my mouth yet. But I sure do like sitting on the counter while Mama cooks dinner. Maybe I'll try one of those cookies in that cookie jar while Mama's not looking, ok, maybe there is only a leftover candycane in there but it's worth a try ...
Ooopps - caught with my hand on the cookie jar!

Entertainment

2011-10-03T05:02:00.004-04:00

I love to hear my children play and create stories with their toys and imagination, I love to watch them explore and imagine AND I love when simple entertainment keeps them busy for hours. Samuel made nintendo DS's for he and Lucy, as well as an iPad/iPod for him to listen to his own music. They played with their electronic devices much of the day, even let me create my own character for the games they made up and asked me for replacement batteries when they ran out of juice. I got to listen to the music Samuel put on his iPod - so far he only has RUSH and Journey on there but he can pull up other ones to play for me. Tonight he played part of Handel's Messiah he's thinking of putting on there. Yep - all of this entertainment - you guessed it - with a marker and a toilet paper roll. It's the simple things in life people - the simple things in life.

A new week

2011-10-02T19:58:00.003-04:00

Well, the last few weeks have gone fairly well as we adjust to my work schedule, bottle feeding, daddy making dinner, children getting into a new routine and more things to fit into a day. I'm so grateful for the families who are taking care of the children - the children have done well and love spending time with them. I am super grateful!

Work for me - a bit overwhelming. It's crazy but I think I'm really going to like the work. In the past few weeks we've introduced cereal and squash to Lydia, Samuel has lost another tooth (somewhere on the floor at school), Lucy had her first show-an-tell at school, Jeremy graded a gazillion essays for his 130 students and I have figured out how to make it through the day... These smiles help me out!

update

2011-09-26T21:14:00.000-04:00

We're alive. That's about all I have time to report. More later.

Sweet siblings

2011-09-20T05:00:00.002-04:00

Samuel and Lucy both love to hold Lydia - she's starting to warm up to the idea. They are sweet - let's hope the love continues when she is crawling and getting into their stuff!

Tomorrow

2011-09-18T21:40:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is my first day of work. WOW! Pray especially for little Lydia that the day won't be absolutely miserable and for the same for me...grateful for His provision of a job but so hard to leave my sweet kiddos for the day. I allready miss them. So grateful for the two families who will be helping with the children - hope it all goes smoothly.

Happy Anniversary Mama and Daddy!

2011-09-15T11:27:00.002-04:00

My Mama and Daddy celebrate their 38th wedding anniversary today. Wow!

That sounds really long. Not so long if it were a birthday but some anniversary years are like dog years (am I right? - for every 1 year it feels like 7) and I'm sure some of them are like children years (you reach the end and it's flown by too quickly).

I am so grateful for their tenacious love and commitment to one another - patient and attentive at times, expressive and bold, comical and crazy and always committed faithfully to figuring it out and making the best out whatever comes their way. Much has happened in those 38 years and they have weathered the storms - and I'm grateful for their love for each other and for their family.

Happy Anniversary Mama and Daddy! We love you!

Thankful

2011-09-14T22:31:00.003-04:00

Guess what I have in my purse right now?

A badge that says - RN - Emergency Room - South Fulton Medical Center.

I was offered and accepted a position at the ER at South Fulton and I'm excited (it really is a crazy story)! The same day I got an offer from Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta but the South Fulton job seems a better fit for my family, though, the Piedmont position seemed great professionally. The Lord is good to provide what we need...in abundance.

I start Monday and have lots of changes for my family in the next few days to get ready for the transistion. Pray for the transition especially for the children (Lydia is signed up for bottle boot camp this weekend - poor thing she's been drafted and is not a willing participant so far) - I'll let you know how it goes. Thank you, Lord! and thank you for your prayers.

Homework

2011-09-11T17:40:00.002-04:00

Lucy's homework this weekend was to bring a picture of her whole family to school Monday. I realized we don't have a pic of all five of us so we did a timer pic this afternoon. Here's all five in the same pic.

Sweetwater

2011-09-11T16:15:00.004-04:00

I ventured with the children to Sweetwater Park yesterday for a little nature walk - we just had to get out in the beautiful day and enjoy...and we did.

The ninja smile

2011-09-10T07:02:00.003-04:00

Lucy hollered from the back of the car
Lucy: "Mama, Yid-ia 'piled at me. Mama, it was a ninja 'pile."
Mama: "Lydia smiled at you?"
Lucy: "Yes, Yid-ia 'piled at me a ninja 'pile."
Mama: "A ninja smile?"
Lucy: " Yes, that's what I said."
Mama: "What is a ninja smile?"
Lucy: "When she has her blankey over her mouth and all you see is her eyes - its a ninja smile!"

Sweet Girls

2011-09-09T12:53:00.004-04:00

Lucy had a great first week of preschool. Her teacher said - "I LOVE HER!! I just want to put her in my pocket and take her home with me. She is so sweet" I'm glad someone else has the same feelings as me.

Also, one of her teachers brought her to car rider line and told me she LOVED watching Lucy at music. She said she was a natural at the tambourine and dancing (she must have gotten those mad tambourine skills from Grandma) and seemed to be in her own world and not shy. I'm pretty sure 'shy' is not something anyone would use to describe Lucy. I'm glad she brings joys to others each day!

Lydia did better today and didn't scream any more than a normal 4 month old - whew! Love that little bundle of joy and grateful for the smiles and coos.

change and update

2011-09-09T11:25:00.003-04:00

Change -

If you've been with me since the early beginnings of this blog in 2005, you know I've never changed the layout/background, etc. - EVER. Mostly because it requires time and I don't want to loose any info in the process and you're really here to see my kiddos and not the decorative border. Well somehow - there is a new template here because of an automatic upgrade and I'll have to figure out how to change it around - maybe I won't - maybe it will stay - maybe EVERYTHING in my life is meant to be changed in this time of life....change is inevitable. Even if it is forced technological change. All of the other change is going ok - but if you happen to know a great way to get rid of the stinky smell of older homes I would love some advice - I could handle a little change in the odor of the old closets!

Update -

While I'm on the computer I thought I would let you know the status of the job search. I went for an interview a few weeks ago and was told I would know by that Friday. I heard nothing. I assumed I didn't get the job but I called today to ask about another position and the recruiter said they were still considering applications. Maybe I'll find out next week about that position (a position in the ER at South Fulton).

I still have applications in at Piedmont Hospital and next Friday I have a 'walk-up interview' at Atlanta Medical Center (I'm not sure how else to describe it). Thank you for your kind words, prayers and care for me. Please pray for a job this Fall that would be a good match for my skills and be best for my family.

Reflections on work for this Labor Day week

2011-09-09T06:07:00.001-04:00

I wonder...if I dressed up to clean would it be more enjoyable? Would I admire the shine, savor the clean smell and gain energy from the accomplishment just a bit more than in my 'house clothes'? She sure seems to love it!

Reading

2011-09-09T06:02:00.001-04:00

Last night Samuel called me into their room after they were in bed. He had been reading outloud a super hero book and then stopped. I wondered what he needed. When I arrived

Mama: "What do you need buddy?"
Samuel: "Mama, Lucy should never be on my bunk bed again - look, right here it says 'no children under 6 years old should be on the top bunk'"
(He finally read the warning label that has been at his head board for the past few weeks)
Mama: surprised he read the fine print "I'm so proud of you for reading that buddy but its ok sometimes for Lucy to be up there if she is careful"
Samuel: "But Mama, the rules say she can't be up here."

My little rule follower and reader...oh what fun we will have in the years to come!

How to eat a lion

2011-09-08T08:01:00.003-04:00

This is how you eat a lion -

1. Growl and scare your prey
2. Open wide your mouth
3. Wave arms around wildly
4. Go for it one bite at a time
5. Keep up the noise and enjoy

She's not screaming but she still can make lots of noise. She 'talks' all the time and it seems our house will be filled with the sounds of one more talker soon.

my opera singer in training

2011-09-07T10:57:00.002-04:00

She really is pitiful at times and often unpredictable...but so sweet and not near as hysterical as she used to be - Thank you, Lord. Yesterday morning - perfect, enjoyable, smiling. This morning - complete meltdown for the entire morning and it's almost time to pick Lucy up. This video is just bit of her lungs at work (when I played it back on the computer she stopped crying for a few minutes - surprise). Grateful for healthy lungs, tears that show she's not dehydrated and a peaceful morning to tend to her while her big brother and big sister enjoy the world outside these walls.

Talents

2011-09-07T09:28:00.003-04:00

Samuel was sitting on the floor playing with Lydia the other day and he looks up and says

Samuel: "Mama, I wonder what her talent is going to be?"
Mama: "That's a good thing to wonder Samuel, so what do you think your talent is?"
Samuel: "Running and rhythm"
Mama: "You are good at those things. What do you think are Lucy's talents?"
Samuel: "Maybe, dancing and dressing up like a princess."

Here's Lucy's outfit from Friday to let you see her talent - soccer shin guards, ballet slippers, froofroo dance dress, apron, fuzzy hat and pet stick pony named Lucky. I do have some talented children

Lucy's First Day of Preschool

2011-09-06T09:18:00.003-04:00

Lucy started her first day in school today. Besides Sunday School and her ballet lesson she hasn't been in a classroom and she is so excited. She is in the Farm Friends class and has 9 other children in the class with a teacher and a helper. I'm so excited for her and can't wait to hear how it goes!
She wanted me to walk her in the first day and ride in car rider line the rest of the year. While I was getting Lydia out of the car to walk her in she said "I wonder what it will feel like to sit in car rider line? Just what will it feel like?" Such a girl - trust me - Samuel never wondered what it would "feel" like. My little sweetie girl is growing up...

On the way to school today she said "Mama, my teacher is going to be the best 4K teacher I'll ever have" This is her main teacher Ms. Julie and Ms. Lesley will help.

Happy Birthday!

2011-09-06T07:00:00.004-04:00

This past Saturday we had a chance to spend with dear friends - though the time was too short. We always love seeing the Coon's, Krevere's and the Autry's and are grateful for their friendship. While we were together we decided to send birthday wishes to our friend John Gunter who is turning 40 today!

We all stood in front of the computer and sang Happy Birthday several times until we finally got a good video on the computer. After the last song Samuel said

Samuel: "Who are we singing to?
Jeremy: "My friend, John Gunter."
Samuel (turning to the little girl who lived at the house): "Your computer's name is John?"

Wednesday

2011-08-30T21:17:00.002-04:00

I got an interview at a hospital in Atlanta in their Nurse Residency program for Wednesday!!! Yippee! I thought this position was closed but they called me Monday afternoon to set up an interview. The interview is at 1:30 on Wednesday. Please pray for clarity, peace and favor with the panel of interviewers.

Babies

2011-08-30T10:40:00.006-04:00

Lydia has lived up to her name and brought joy into our home in the last few months. She is smiling and cooing and interacting with us which brings many smiles from her adoring fans - especially big brother and big sister.

She is very excited this morning to welcome Mason Rivers to the family and can't wait to share a slobbery kiss with her new cousin!

He's here

2011-08-30T06:53:00.004-04:00

Congratulations Casey and Erin!!!

Mason Rivers Kinsey arrived this morning weighing 8 lbs 12 oz and 19 inches long. We're so excited to have another little nephew!!! Praying for rest and health for Mama and baby!

Look at his cute kissable cheeks!
Beautiful Mama with her little boy! Love the smiles

I think its love

2011-08-22T22:44:00.002-04:00

Please pray with me

2011-08-22T10:43:00.004-04:00

So much has been going on in our lives in the last few months as we welcomed Lydia into the world, said goodbye to my Granny, left the only home my children knew and moved to a new home/school/church/job. Jeremy has said "Our lives have periods of relative calm punctuated by mass chaos and transition" and this would be true.

In all of this I have been looking for my first job as a nurse. It's hard to pursue this calling in the middle of the change at home, with my desire to be with my children, with the unsettled feeling of having an infant in a new place. But I keep searching. Please pray with me that I would get a position in the Nurse Residency Program at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. The interviews and decisions will be made in the next few weeks - please pray for favor with the managers on paper and in person.

Thanks for your prayers.

The sounds of life

2011-08-22T10:25:00.001-04:00

This week has been full of sounds that have made me smile. I try to use all of my senses to grasp and hold onto the preciousness of life around me...especially in my children. While Lucy has been away here are the sounds I've heard this week that make my heart smile.

1. Samuel praying at night "Dear Heavenly Father, please help Lydia because she is screaming more lately and help Mommy not to scream when Lydia screams...." (as he cuts his eyes up and smiles at me) A little boy observing the family he loves around him and putting a little of his humor in the sweet prayers he prays in earnest.

2. Lydia cooing and blowing bubbles and raspberries. The intermittent joy that is made more precious because of the screaming that still fills our walls...and the yard...and the car.

3. Samuel singing with the radio at the top of his lungs - praise songs to our Heavenly Father. My heart and mouth smile at his joy of songs and music and Truth.

4. Samuel humming and beating out the drum and guitar parts for songs from his Daddy's favorite band...and then Daddy joins in the concert...beaming from ear to ear that his son shares his love of all things RUSH.

5. Samuel asking "When is Lucy going to be back?" with a slight melancholy tone.

6. Samuel talking on the phone to Lucy in an excited brotherly voice. When Lucy only said "Hey" and not "Hey, brother" Samuel said "But Lucy, you didn't call me brother" They talked for several minutes and I could hear their love and how the time apart makes the heart grow fonder.

7. Samuel talking to cousin Wyatt on the phone in a sweet big cousin voice. "Hey little Wyatt!"

8. Hearing my sweetie girl on the phone - I miss my little Lucy. Our house seems lonely without her eager self to offer help in the kitchen, help with Lydia, play with/ aggravate brother and give sweet hugs.

9. Samuel playing sweetly with David, Talya and Catalina. He tries to be a big boy...and I guess he is growing up. I'm grateful for friends who share their lives and homes with us and I love to see our children growing up around us - becoming who God is making them to be.

Pretty in pink

2011-08-17T14:09:00.001-04:00

Bunk Beds

2011-08-16T10:10:00.003-04:00

Samuel and Lucy are sharing a room these days and it only seemed fitting to have bunk beds. Mama and Daddy successfully assembled the beds this past weekend (with no one harmed and no excessive frustration either) and the children were able to help some too. They have been super excited about getting their bunk beds and it makes the room seem huge. They have all ready used it as a pirate ship, an 'American sailing vessel', and a space ship. Fun times!

Drama

2011-08-14T18:18:00.003-04:00

Life with my sweet children...Some days are just full of drama

And then there is some peace when she finds the thumb...

Pictures from our week

2011-08-12T13:56:00.003-04:00

Chronicles of Narnia Audio

2011-08-08T11:59:00.003-04:00

I'll admit I haven't been couponing lately but my sweet friend Teri sent this to me from Southern Savers. Sounds great!

http://www.southernsavers.com/2011/08/free-chronicles-of-narnia-complete-set-audio-books/

The first day

2011-08-04T20:29:00.003-04:00

We made it. I say we because it really was a group experience. Here are a few quick reflections before I head to bed (yes, before 9pm)

I was a little concerned when we arrived at the bus stop today and was greeted by a fifth grade boy in a Harley Davidson t-shirt and high tops - I had flash backs of my fifth grade year - in 1985. I forgot that boys get a growth spurt around Samuel's age and then not one again until - oh maybe 9th grade. The 5th grade boy wasn't much bigger than Samuel but this kid's Billy Ray Cyrus mullet was for real. Y'all I really should have gotten a picture of this thing for ya - a full mullet.

We got to talking to this boy and a couple of other kids. One explained that he should be in 4th grade rather than 3rd but he failed kindergarten 3 times. His older brother corrected him and said he only failed twice and he failed once - you don't have to add them all together. Lucy thought that was the best thing ever - to spend three years in kindergarten!

Samuel's teacher's name is Mrs. Oslacky (pronounced Oh-Slack-ee). Samuel is having trouble with her name and keeps calling her Mrs. O-Sloppy. Hope that gets worked out soon :)

Samuel said he made friends, then corrected himself and said that he hadn't known any of them long enough to be friends but he did play "with the kid next to me, Nicolas and some girl - I don't know her name."

He was a little overwhelmed in the lunch room and said he only had 20 minutes to eat and that's why he didn't get to eat it all. Mama, there are so many kids I didn't know what to do.

Mama, all we did today was talk about rules. There are hundreds of rules - there are about, maybe, sixteen of them.

I gave him a secret mission to count how many people are in his class - he said "There are 17. There were supposed to be 19 but one moved away and we don't know about the other one - I hope she's ok."

"I really liked riding the bus but nobody sat next to me. That's ok, I'm new and nobody knows me yet."

OK - random things to remember but thought I would preserve them here.

PS - Day two at the bus stop - the mullet was gone (must have gotten his hair cut last night), another 1st grader came and I met a mom who grew up in the neighborhood and seems to know everyone. Much better outlook on things after we've gone through one day...but we're going to have to get Samuel up earlier in the morning so he can play before school - I think that will help.

First day of 1st Grade

2011-08-04T07:32:00.003-04:00

and he's off...

Daddy's first day of school too!

Tomorrow....

2011-08-03T09:22:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow my first born ventures off on the bus for first grade. yep, you heard me correctly - a yellow school bus. yep, I'm full of emotion. Yep, he's excited and a bit overwhelmed. yep, i could write a long post about how I'm dealing and conversations - but I'll stick with one conversation from this morning.

One thing he is so excited about is being able to pick out his own clothes (he had to wear a uniform last year).
He said "really? - I can pick out anything" SO I reminded him of my guidelines
1. neat
2. clean
3. somewhat matching
4. modest (this is mostly for my girls)

He said "but why do clothes matter?"

I remember this quote and found it again and read it to him - of course I think what is in the heart is the most important but clothes do matter...and he laughed.

Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.
Mark Twain
US humorist, novelist, short story author, & wit (1835 - 1910)

Free time

2011-08-02T21:44:00.006-04:00

In the last few days of summer (Samuel starts school this Thursday) - This is what tummy time looks like around our house.

Samuel playing with his new air craft carrier and a secret base he built out of fan boxes,

Lydia asleep because why fight tummy time - just fall asleep all ready, and

Lucy making toilet paper princess to go with her toys (I mean really why do adults think children like to play with 'sets' of anything - they make up their own toys that go together and blow my organizational categories to shreds)

The children took all of these pics and I thought I would share their creative juices...

More Songs

2011-07-30T22:00:00.001-04:00

For some reason the whole videos won't load but you get the idea!

He's got the whole world in HIS hands

2011-07-30T21:44:00.004-04:00

For the last couple of days we've been praying for my new little nephew Mason (Wyatt's brother who is due mid-Sept). He's been cooking about 33 weeks but it trying to escape from Aunt Erin's belly a little too early. She is in the hospital on Mag drips, steroid shots and little sleep and she keeps chugging along - she's been a trooper but I know this is hard physically, mentally and emotionally. I know this is a hard time to experience peace in the uncertainty - we've been praying and Lucy's been singing "He's got the whole world in HIS hands" much of the day. I thought I would share it with you - Lydia seemed entertained and wanted to participate. We love you Aunt Erin, Mason, Wyatt and Uncle Casey - praying for peace and comfort as you face these uncertain trials knowing the ONE who is never uncertain and who truly does hold all things in His hands.

Girl time

2011-07-30T21:10:00.003-04:00

This is hopefully the first of many "girl days" around the Noonan house. To be honest, I'm not so good at figuring out how to be girlie with my girls - I'm praying for lots of wisdom - Its so much easier to play pirates or go on adventure to the moon or fight the bad guys than pretend to eat purple ice cream with the pink octopus. I don't want the girls to get caught up in the teenage culture when they are 4 but that seems to be the trend even in cartoons for 4 year olds. Praying we can enjoy the little girl stage for years to come and enjoy being with each other.

So - We read books, played Zingo, played with the pop beads, ate donuts and braided hair. We also painted fingernails - we've never painted fingernails until a month ago when Lucy finally stopped sucking her thumb. I told her she could have whatever color she wanted when she stopped sucking her thumb. Her request - yellow. Grandma got her yellow fingernail polish and today we experimented. Lucy loved it. I thought it wasn't so bad. Later in the day I was changing my mind when I tried to change Lydia's diaper and I couldn't tell if I had poop on my fingernail because the color was the same - opps!

While we sat in front of the fan to let our nails dry Lucy and I talked about being beautiful. She talked about her beautiful nails and the pretty butterfly we saw outside and then she surprised me with her response to my question. I asked her -
Mama: "Those are beautiful things - so what makes YOU beautiful?"
Lucy: "my heart makes me beautiful"
Mama: "That's true - So, how do you get a beautiful heart?"
Lucy: "God has to make it beautiful!"
Mama: "That's right, sweet girl, that's right"

2 truths and a Lie PART 2

2011-07-30T16:07:00.002-04:00

OK - Here goes - here are a couple of facts from my day so far and one thing that's not true...

1. I left the tea boiling on the stove long enough for all of the water/tea to evaporate and the tea bag to start burning on the stove.

2. I painted my nails yellow just like Lucy's and actually thought it was a good idea until I changed Lydia's diaper and couldn't tell if I had poop on my fingernails or if it was just the polish.

3. I finished the essay I started writing several days ago.

2 Truths and a Lie

2011-07-29T00:26:00.002-04:00

You've played this game haven't you? Well, Jeremy was telling the children he had to play this game at a new teacher orientation he went to today. You tell two truths and a lie and the people have to guess which one is the lie. Lucy and Samuel thought it would be fun to play at the dinner table and we went for two rounds as we watched our children try to come up with something to say. Lucy was great at guessing which thing was the lie but she was not able to grasp the hang of the game -

Lucy: "I am holding up some fingers, I took a nap at Mrs. Jessica's one time, I joined the Army. Remember one of these is fake!"

Can you guess which one is the lie -

The search continues

2011-07-29T00:17:00.002-04:00

Tonight I was trying to finish several cover letters and an essay for a job in the area. I went to the bedroom with Lydia while Samuel and Lucy did some science experiment with Dad. Then slowly both children migrated to the room with me so that I had all three children in my room while I was trying to finish this essay. Neither understand writing more than a few words and for Lucy writing is more about spelling words than writing sentences.

As I tried to repeatedly remind them Mommy needed to finish her work and write this essay - Samuel said "just get daddy to write it, he's a teacher"
and finally when Jeremy came and said "ok, kids let's leave Mama to finish writing her essay."
and I said "just give me some time so I can write the essay"
and Lucy replied as she walked out the door "Mama, just write SSA" (as if I could just spell the word ESSAY and be done - I wish!)

Sweet Birthday Wishes!

2011-07-25T21:18:00.004-04:00

I am so grateful for these sweet children who make each day special (and some days a challenge, some an adventure and some just grateful to be alive at the end of)...even my birthday.

Our first family portrait drawn by Lucy (L to R - Daddy, Samuel, Lucy and Kelly holding Lydia)

Quotes

2011-07-23T20:04:00.003-04:00

Lucy (at the top of her lungs in the shower tonight): "IKEA was a wee little man and wee little man was he, he climbed up in a sycamore tree for the Lord he wanted to see."

FYI - It's Zacchaeus NOT Ikea in my Bible but hey - maybe our trip to Ikea three weeks ago made an impact!

Cute Puddin'

2011-07-22T16:22:00.004-04:00

She's three months old today and she weighs 12.4lbs, growing fine, still screaming more than I would like but better than it was. I was hoping 12weeks would be the magic number and she would quit screaming but I won't complain because she's sleeping through the night...a good 12 hour stretch - Wahoo! What a sweet blessing she is and it is fun to hear her start cooing and "talking" and watching big brother and sister enjoy her!

Samuel's Birthday Cake

2011-07-20T23:07:00.004-04:00

Lucy and I made a tank cake for Samuel's birthday - the Hersey bar tread was my favorite detail and favorite part to eat!

Samuel's 6th Birthday

2011-07-20T22:37:00.003-04:00

Samuel turned 6 years old this past Saturday. His snaggle-toothed grin reminded me he's growing up and his joy at life reminds me this is such an adventure - every day - being his Mama and living life as a family. I'm so grateful for this special boy and have enjoyed watching him grow in the last 6 years - WOW!

For his party, we had some family over and one new friend he made at church. The theme was military and we had a great time spreading out the fun throughout the day. The main event was the water gun fight and the water balloon grenades - Daddy was the main 'enemy' trying to invade the workshop.

And then we used Samuel's new aircraft carrier to try and land our paper airplanes on - so fun.

And before the festivities began Daddy and the children put some of their new state quarters in their map - you can see some of the decorations on the wall Samuel made for his party. He made all of the decorations - camo and military themes with guns, planes, secret spy equipment and more camo.

We were all there

2011-07-20T22:09:00.004-04:00

Samuel turned 6 this past weekend and we were all there to celebrate - Thomas, Aunt Kim and Aunt Vicki
Puddin
Sweet Lucy
Grandma and Papa and Grandpa Noonan

and mama and daddy!

Today

2011-07-20T14:30:00.003-04:00

So far today

1. After one failed attempt on Monday (due to one screaming child we left Publix after we made it to the meat section and grabbed some granola bars on the way to the front) we had a successful trip to Publix where we escaped before Puddin could scream herself silly (she only screamed during check-out). I did realize when I got the bill that I had hurried through the store too quickly (to avoid a repeat of the trip Monday) and did not stick with my budget or my list - so we are grateful for food in the fridge but need to work on the budget keeping while also keeping three children alive and well on a Publix trip. Samuel was actually a big help - he pushed one buggy for the food while I pushed the other buggy with Lydia, Lucy, my purse, the baby bjorn (in case of melt down) and cloth grocery bags in it. Why don't they put a hook on the outside of the buggy for all of those extras you have to take in so they don't take up precious cart room?

2. Stopped on side of road after a 3 year old ran across the road in front of me. I stopped to help him since no adult was in sight and another lady with a cell phone stopped and called 911. I jumped out to help him and keep him out of the street until the deputies arrived (after 20 minutes still no adult). Fortunately Puddin fell asleep and the children were entertained to see the sheriff's deputies arrive - Samuel asked "Mama, can I have a report on the operations so far?" and "will this be on the news?" Fortunately the little boy was returned to his Daddy who was several blocks away and my children were motivated to learn our new address and phone number.

3. I needed to change some info for Lydia's health insurance and decided to put in the time on the phone today during rest time. After 16 minutes on hold I got the "We are experiencing a high call volume (they didn't say 'unusually' high call volume so maybe this is usual). Your wait time is estimated to exceed 45 minutes." At 37 minutes into the call the power went out and my cordless phone lost the call - I don't think I have anymore wait in me today...maybe tomorrow....maybe tomorrow.

4. More birthday prep this afternoon for Jeremy's birthday tomorrow- Lucy helped me make the cake and Samuel helped me lick the batter. The oven is totally off and the cake is gooey after over an hour in the oven when it should take 45 minutes (so crazy because the brownies I made for church last week took only 18 minutes when they should have taken 30) so I'm still trying to figure out the oven. It reminds me of the oven we had when we moved to Grandma and Grandpa Ezell's farmhouse - we had that same oven until a few years ago and it was like breaking a secret code to figure out how to make it work - Mama always knew just about how far to turn the knob to get it to 350 even though the numbers were long gone. Oh memories.

Speaking of birthdays = My cousin, Angela, had her baby, Titus Simon, born yesterday who will add his birthday to the full birthday calendar of July/August around here. I'll post pics from Samuel's 6th birthday later - yep - he's officially 6. And something I found that reminded me of my sweet Papa who's birthday is this Sunday - if you know him you'll laugh when you see this...just need to find a scanner

5. Now for my workout routine for the day - Just Dance Kids on the Wii with my kiddos - fun times!

just keeping it real folks

Puddin'

2011-07-11T21:00:00.002-04:00

Realized I haven't put pics on the blog in a while...here are some from the last few weeks -

Look at those blue eyes
Look at those bubbles
Look at that sweet baby who fell asleep next to me while I was reading to big brother and big sister

She was not so fond of packing...neither was Mama...but atleast in the baby bjorn she would calm down some.

First Tooth Lost

2011-07-11T16:08:00.002-04:00

5 days shy of turning 6 and he looses his first tooth on our Publix trip. He was super excited and I was too - seems like such a big deal (and I finally found my camera!).

Mommy Math

2011-07-11T14:31:00.003-04:00

Here is some of our Math for today

FYI 0.6 miles
= distance from my parked car at Target to my parked car in my driveway

3 children with their carseats
+ 1 Honda Civic
= 1 not so legal ride to the grocery store

1 grocery trip
- carefully planned grocery list
+ one forgetful mommy
= way over budget for the week

2 poopy explosions > diaper capacity = a mess

1 apprehensive 5 year old
- 1 tooth
= 1 eventful trip to Publix including a trip to the bathroom to see the empty space where said tooth used to reside.

1 soon to be 6 year old
+ 1 dramatic 4 year old
+ one smiling 2 month
+ 1 grateful mommy
= just another Monday around here!

Quote

2011-07-08T14:10:00.002-04:00

Just had to share - too funny

Samuel was sitting next to me on the couch while getting ready to nurse a screaming Lydia...

Samuel: "I know how to get Lydia to stop crying. Just sit down and try to feed her and when she sees your knuckle she'll stop crying."

Not quite the right body part buddy!

Panda Express

2011-07-08T14:05:00.002-04:00

The other night we went around the corner to the Panda Express to eat. We all shared a meal and had some interesting conversations. Jeremy told the children Mr. Fites built the restaurant and they were amazed. Samuel wanted to know if he built the chairs and tables too. Here are two other comments worth remembering

With her hands messy from eating...
Lucy: "Daddy, I don't see any napkins - do you think they just lick their hands in China?"

Jeremy went and got her some napkins while I explained that they usually do just lick their hands in China.

Samuel: "Do they have a water basin I can fill my cup up by myself?"

All those basin's sitting around waiting to be used for water...

Moving

2011-07-05T22:21:00.003-04:00

Moving makes me want to sell everything and move into an RV at a nudist colony. Never having to move again and all of my possessions weeded out and in a small space - and NO clothes to have to keep up with for children of three sizes and no more laundry....just thinking.

On the road again...

2011-06-25T10:02:00.002-04:00

Jeremy and I moved every year for our first 7 years of marriage and spent summers house sitting and on summer projects. We have been in our current house 3 1/2 years - a record for us - and it has been such a blessing. It's been a great little house and the only house our children know. It's been a great neighborhood - I won't talk about how I will miss our neighbor, Mrs. Jessica (and her family) and how we all ready miss Mrs. Valerie and Lucy down the street and her family (though my Lucy and I have 'pretend' visited her several times on the train). And we've had a great church and school for Samuel. Next Tuesday we will start packing the moving truck to head to our next destination and next adventure. I'm excited about the changes ahead - an amazing job for Jeremy, several good relationships allready established and we'll be closer to Grandpa Noonan.

So for the next week we'll be in OPERATION: Just Throw It In A Box or Throw it AWAY. We've slowly been packing but we still have to live life around here with our three shorter family members - so if you just LOVE to pack or want hold a baby on Monday - let me know!

In other news
I have been taking pics and hopefully will catch up soon on the other happenings - Here is the brief version - Puddin' is doing better (I'll ignore yesterday and pretend it didn't happen) with her screaming incessantly, Samuel no longer has the 102 - 103 fever he started the week out with, Lucy is currently trying to get the syrup out of her hair from her breakfast waffles and my only goal today is to be a patient Mama to my kiddos and get our flat tire fixed. Have a great Saturday!

Quotes

2011-06-22T20:57:00.002-04:00

I've referred to Lydia as a "happy camper" or "she's not a happy camper" lately. Samuel was testing out this new term tonight.

Samuel: "Lydia, you're a GOOD camper."

____________________________________

While at Grandma's several weeks ago.

Samuel: "Mama, can you turn the light up I can't see a DAMN thing."
Mama: in a calm, clarifying manner "What did you say, Buddy?"
Samuel: "Can you turn the light up - I can't see a DAMN thing."
Mama: a calm discussion about appropriate words for little guys came up - oh the things little ears hear and little mouths repeat! Atleast he used the word in an appropriate context

Much better

2011-06-17T09:53:00.002-04:00

Thanks everyone for your encouragement and prayers - the last two days have been much better with Lydia. I've gotten some rest and she's slept. I've gotten some packing done and she's sat in her bouncey seat. I've smiled at her and she's smiled back. Thanks again. Now I'm just praying she'll find her thumb...

new morning - new mercies

2011-06-15T09:07:00.003-04:00

^{Yet, I still dare to hope
when I remember this:

The faithful love of the LORD never ends!
His mercies never cease.

Great is His faithfulness;
His mercies begin afresh each morning.

I say to myself, "The LORD is my inheritance;
therefore, I will hope in Him!"

The LORD is good to those who depend on Him,
to those who search for Him.}
Lamentations 3:21 - 25

Peace

2011-06-14T22:02:00.003-04:00

I've often heard the saying "sleeping like a baby" referring to peaceful sleep - yes, it really is peaceful for ALL involved. Thank you, Lord for strength to care for this precious little girl. It isn't as bad as it seems in the moment...she really only cries several hours a day and there are 20 more hours that she doesn't, she is healthy, she is beautiful and her siblings, Mama and Daddy still love her.... AND she really smiled at me today (it was only once but I think she was actually looking at me and smiled - a precious gift)

For sanity sake...

2011-06-14T15:03:00.004-04:00

Finding laughter in the ordinary (read - finding sanity in the incessant screaming) is what I need to do so I came up with a list of what I thought I would do with my week and what I've done instead.

What I thought I would do -
1. I thought I would be able to spend time with Puddin' and figure her out in the peacefulness of an empty home

2. I thought I would start my post baby work out routine

3. I thought I would get packing done for our move in a couple of weeks

4. Listen to a sermon on CD about the gospel and grace

5. Talk on the phone to some friends

Instead what I've done -

1. Made a trip to the pediatrician (where she screamed for the 15 minute appt) and the lactation consultant to find out anything to help the screaming.....got some reflux medicine and sympathy.

2. Baked a pan of Ghirardelli dark chocolate brownies to eat all by myself (chocolate = sanity)

3. Drove around in the van wasting gas because Puddin' doesn't usually scream in the car and I can drown out the crying with the radio if it does get bad.

4. Sat outside for 10 minutes while Puddin' screamed just to see if it was me who was making her cry (I'm trying to exhaust all possibilities and will try just about anything).

5. Thought I was going to lose it...prayed...and then she took a 3 hour nap - Thank you LORD! Seriously, she has been sleeping in good chunks - she's just usually not happy when she's awake.

6. Wondered if it's too quiet in our house without brother and sister around...

OK, folks - I think we'll make it, I mean I know we will, but pray for Lydia that she would calm down a bit and for me that I would get some packing done and not lose my marbles in the process.

Thank you Grandma for keeping Samuel and Lucy for the week so I can figure Lydia out!

Disclaimer - Lydia screamed on and off in the writing of this blog post - thoughts and written word are not filtered through a rested brain....just keeping it real.

Quotes

2011-06-10T20:37:00.003-04:00

Frequently in the last few weeks I've used the phrase "screaming bloody murder" - just a few times. The children have overheard my descriptions of Lydia's screaming. Today Lucy was holding Lydia on the couch and Lydia started screaming -

Lucy: "Mama! Lydia's screaming bloody NOSES!"

I guess the bloodiest thing Lucy has seen is one of Daddy's bloody noses - I guess they're bad too and so is that screaming.