Monday, December 31, 2007

The visit with Virginia.

It really hurt to visit with Virginia. She is such a friend to me, and seeing her in the hospital bed, drooling from the side of her mouth, unresponsive . . . . I miss her, and I miss her comments, her company, her opinions.

Visiting hours yesterday were from 4pm to 6pm.

Previously, after church yesterday I invited Carlos and Virginia's kids over to play with us so the plan was for me to meet Carlos at the hospital at 4pm with the kids, and I'd be able to go visit Virginia.

There were 14 people (mostly deaf) who were waiting to visit Virginia.

They only let one person go at a time. We had to wear a mask. The place smelled of sicknesses, and her room was all colorless white and beige. She is alone in the room with it's too bright white lights, and it feels cold. The too-worn-thin hospital gown was slipping off one shoulder, and her lips had sores on them. Her hair needed washing and her hands smelled sweaty.

I only had moments, but after touching and rubbing her feet through the very thin sheet that half covered her, I took her hand and tried to sign into her hand.

They say that sometimes people in comas still hear what's going on. Well . . then, couldn't she be able to feel and understand that I'm trying to communicate with her???

Her eyes would open and close slowly but they looked around blindly.

I want to go back on a day when so many are not waiting for me to get their turn to see her. I want to go and wash the sweat from her hands and cover them in fragrant lotion. I want to spritz her with some sweet smelling body spray like the kind I know she loves. And perhaps bring a scented candle, not to light, I doubt they'd allow that, but let her room be fragrant.

I want to try to sign into her hand some more, even if it is to pour out my heart to her. I know she will be so upset to not know that our mutual friends Mario and Rita are expecting again! This will be their third baby . . . Virginia must know!

I want my friend back.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

I'm back!

there is a moment in the mothers morning where she realizes that the little ones just are not going to let her sleep for a moment more

I really, really, wanted an hour more before we start getting ready for church, but . . . forget it! And so, with the kids having their very healthy and slaved over breakfast of toast and apples I have a moment to catch up with you all.

Oh man, but where do I begin? . . . .I think I'm gonna need coffee first . . .. hold one second . ..

*sigh* aaaaaahhhhhh

You know, the saying "When it rains, it pours." Well it has been hurricane season here.

First my computer dies, right when I needed it most! Then Virginia falls into a coma and is hospitalized. But no sooner did that happen then my own husband gets admitted to the hospital for pneumonia and my baby is diagnosed with RSV and pneumonia as well. Oh, and a "by the way" I have a cough that won't go away, but not nearly as urgent as all the above.

So in that order lets deal out updates . . .

We celebrate this morning because I now have a working computer thanks to my super bro. It's a "new to us" computer, but better than the one that died and functioning! Woo Hoo!

As for my good friend, ministry co-worker, Virginia, as II have been able to talk to her husband Carlos (the deaf pastor here) he seems amazingly calm and peaceful. It has been prayer! And yesterday I am told that they have taken her off the respirator, she is breathing on her own, she is off a lot of the medications they had her on to stabilize her and she is doing well. Her eyes are open, but unfocused. They were hoping to get her sitting in a wheel chair. I ask about her hands. If she has tried to sign. But no one knows. I hope to go in to see her today . . . . keep praying.

My husband scared me so bad when I first got him home from the hospital. He was SO weak and unable to do anything. It was so unlike him, and before he left the hospital his doctor told him that they found some fluid around his heart so that he had "A little CHF, congestive heart failure" and then his doctor when on vacation.

So seeing my husband weak, and unable to much get out of bed, I thought the "little CHF" was getting "a lot" and didn't know where to turn, since it was Christmas and all . . .
I did what I typically do when I need a reality check, I called my aunt. She has had pneumonia too and said that it took her 4 months to get out of bed and a whole year to fully recover.

*whew*

So his fatige is normal. And he will be taking it easy.
He is feeling better now, and yesterday he helped me with cleaning up the kids room (*grovel thank you! thank you oh hubby of mine! grovel*) and he hopes to be on the field again on Monday. But he insists that he is going to only point fingers and supervise, not do anything physically exacting.

As for the baby, he is taking his meds, getting nebulized every 8 hours and as happy as can be. The doctor says that she has never seen a baby with RSV be so happy. The baby is resting a lot, and drinking lots of mommas milk. He will not be doing anything physically exacting . . . so we are all good.

I finally got an appointment for myself, and am being treated for bronchitis plus my doctor said I have sever allergies. Totally treatable, and I'm feeling better too.

Now it is time for me to get ready to go to church. As I mentally prepare myself to interpret for the worship, I kind of hit a melancholy note, since it is Virginia that loved the signed worship more than anyone. I have to confess, I don't have as much "gana" -as they say here- or much "want to", to sign without her.

Sunday, December 23, 2007

It's amazing how we can take comfort in the little things.

Like knowing where the Splenda is kept, and that first cup of coffee that marks a morning . . .

With all that has been going on, we've mostly stayed at friend's houses in the States. But late Friday I drove "home" to Mexico with the kids. They were SO ready to be home.

Every time we got into the car on Friday my daughter would ask "Are we going home now?"

You see, it was Wednesday night that my hubby went into the ER, and was admitted for pneumonia.

So Saturday the kids and I stayed home, and late Saturday night I drove back to the States with the kiddos to pick up hubby from the hospital.

My husband had been so pale for so long that on Sunday (today) when I went to get hubby, and he had his color back I thought he had too much sun or something. It took me a minute to just see that his skin was just a healthy rosy color!

He is still a bit weak and achy, but he is back with the family now.

We really missed him.

And today we are resting at a friends house in San Diego. Tomorrow we go home. You watch and see . . .. I bet my hubby will be out on the field on Tuesday.

News on Virginia - no change really. Keep praying. I'm making plans for the deaf women's retreat and I hate doing this without her. She is the heart of the women's deaf ministry. We need our heart back!

I'm tired folks. Real tired. But we carry on, don't we?

For all ye students of Spanish or speakers of Spanglish.

T'was the night before Christmas and all through la casa
Not a creature was stirring, only the masa.
Mama making tamales con mucho cuidado
In hopes old Santa would feel obligado
To bring all the hijos, both buenos y malos
A nice batch of dulces and other regalos
Mis hermanos and I went to sleep in our camas
Some in calsones, some in piyamas
Cuando out in the yard I heard un gran grito
That I jumped to my feet like a frightened cabrito
And who in the world do you think que era?
El mero mero with his venados estaban afuera
Santa Claus in a sleigh with a big sombrero
Came dashing along like a little bombero
I watched as they came, and this little fat hombre
Was shouting and whistling, and calling by nombre
"Ay PEPE, AY JESSE, AY CUCA, AY BETO
AY PANCHO, AY CHATO, CHUY Y NETO!"
Then standing straight up, with his hands on his pecho,
He flew to the top of our very own techo
With his round little belly like a bowl of jalea
He struggled to squeeze down our old chimenea
Then huffing and puffing, and a little cansado
He picked up a bag that looked so pesado
He filled all the stockings with lovely regalos
For none of the hijos had been very malos
Then chuckling aloud, seeming very contento
He turned like a flash and was gone like the viento
As I heard him exclaim and this is verdad,
"MERRY CHRISTMAS A TODOS! FELIZ NAVIDAD!"

More prayer needs

This post is being typed by a friend. Michelle (and family) had gone stateside a few days ago to visit with their family etc... And before they were able to return home to Mexico her husband (who as many of you know is on dialysis) was complaining of pain in his ribs. He thought it was from coughing but it hurt so bad that he went to the hospital ER. He ended up being admitted and was found to have pnemonia. But not only that, her youngest, their baby boy, also has pnemonia. Michelle and kids have gone back home to Mexico and the baby is taking medication. Her husband is still in the hospital stateside the last that I heard.

Please be praying for them.
Be praying for Michelle...for God to give her the rest and strength when she needs it.
For the kiddos and the home to be covered in peace....that passes understanding.
For the deaf ministry, because it is being hit so hard right now. That the Lord will turn EVERYTHING aroung for His glory and purpose.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Update on Virginia

Virginia is still in coma and her family is only allowed to visit her for 5 minutes at a time.
This is to protect others and Virginia as well.
We are waiting to hear the results of the test to find out which kind of Meningitis she has, either bacterial or viral. From what we understand, bacterial meningitis is the more severe and life threatening. They are treating her for this until they get the results back. It should take about three days.
Thank you for your continued prayers!

Monday, December 17, 2007

Urgent prayer requset for Virginia

This is an urgent prayer request that is being posted by a friend of Michelle (via my computer since hers is still not working).
A dear friend of ours, Virginia Suarez (deaf pastors' wife) had been sick for a few days and on Sunday morning she passed out and has only woken up once since. She is still in a coma at this time. The Doctors say that she is dehydrated and that her sodium and potasium levels are very low. They had originally diagnosed her with diabetes but they just rediagnosed her with menengitis. As you can imagine this has really shaken up their family. Her husband's mother is visiting for the holidays and is able to be the mediator at the hospital and make sure she is getting the best care. She will be having a neurologist come and check Virginia in the morning and if she is not getting proper care she will be asking for her to get a transfer to a better hospital.
We covet your prayers for her.
1.For her to wake from coma and for the doctors to effectivly treat the correct problem.
2. That she would be getting the best possible care.
3. For the family, her husband Carlos and the two kids. For their peace and comfort during this time.
4. For their financial situation. They do not have any insurance and do not have the resources to handle a situation like this.

Thank you so very much!
Sorry I could not get the links to work properly, but you can find more information about the Suarez family and their picture on Michelle's ministry blog. http://www.bajacompassion.blogspot.com/

Friday, December 07, 2007

We are experiencing tecnical difficulties

Make your own clipart like this @ www.TXT2PIC.com


My computer powers up and shuts itself off. Then it won't come on at all.

I admit, it's old.
About 7 years old.

Today I am posting at the Suarez house.
But won't be able to post as I'd like, or anything until my super brother can come and fix my computer.

I am missing you all!

Blessings!

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

What God has in store

As most of you know, my husband is on peritoneal dialysis. His kidney's failed about 3 years ago. We have praised our Lord for peritoneal dialysis because it allowed us to continue to serve here in Mexico.

But now we need prayers for clear vision, since my hubby's numbers are not so hot (to put it mildly), the doctors threatens that he may need to go back to hemodialysis. That would be 3 times a week and a full days worth of recovery, since it wipes him out. Also, it's painful for my needle-phobe hubby.

Admittedly, Hubby could do a whole lot better if he just took all his meds and ate right, so now he is really really trying, but it is his weak spot-that's for sure- and all my loving nagging wouldn't help one bit.
As it is, the doctors want to see him twice a week to give him shots to boost his red blood cells, since they are particularily low. This makes him animic, which makes him easily tired.


This has the potential to change things

a lot of things

So the prayer request is this: ". . . asking God to fill [us] with the knowledge of his will. . ." Col 1:9

Monday, November 19, 2007

And all that jazz . . .

So, my hubby and I were talking about the job distribution in regard to the dishes.
You see, we don't have a dish washer . . .

Oh, wait, I'm wrong, we do. . . but it is on the porch without a "shell", or outer covering.
We got it for $40! . . .About a year ago.

Meanwhile, while we wait for hubby to install it, we've been washing the dishes by hand.

Lately I've been so busy I've allowed the dishes to pile up for three days, which is ugly business, really . . . but I just haven't had time (hence not blogging much either).

So, in regard to the dishes I asked if he could help, and he said, "I do half of the dishes already!"
"What?"
"Yeah, I put them away."

*bwahahahahahaha*

OK . . *whew* Now I long ago I promised myself that I wouldn't start a blog by apologizing for not writing, so this isn't an apology, but I do find that I have to give myself a break . . .

I have to remind myself that I am still in the newborn stage with the little one just turning 2 months, and that I get a lot more done now than I did with my first newborn.

I have to remind myself that I am still running around interpreting, and doing bible studies for the deaf ladies and trying to correspond with our supporters and such ministry business obligations as required (that don't stop just cause I have a newborn) and thats a lot!

I do think I broke my toe on Saturday, still did interpreting on Sunday, and haven't had time to go to the doctors . . won't have time until maybe next week.

The house is a far cry from "clean" and I am anticipating the arrival of two precious aunts from Minnesota tomorrow for a week stay, and then am hosting a Thanksgiving here on Wednesday, where my two brothers and a significant other are coming.

Still have a cough, as does the hubby, and two of the three kids.

So I here by permit myself NOT to stress the visit.
Not to stress the lack of time to visit my bloggity friends (although I do miss you all like crazy)
I'm giving myself a break!
And if I have to blog while nursing a baby at the breast, so be it.
That's what boppy's are for right?

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Friday, November 09, 2007

An emphasis on missions

This month is full of birthdays, and holiday celebrations and Mes de Missiones . . . a.k.a. missions month . . .

It's the one month a year that my uncle's church gets all dressed up like some foreign place and has missionaries from all over come and motivate the people of Latin America to get up and GO!


There are dances and songs, worship and all sorts of stuff. It's every Saturday and Sunday and hundreds of people attend. Hopefully they all go away challenged to spread the Good News!


The theme this year is H2O, bringing cool waters to a thirsty land. It opened with FIRE! I remember driving up to the church wondering why there was a firetruck out front.


Inside the place is decked out like Africa with thatched walls and dried trees all about the walls along with all sorts of African artifacts . . . .


Ah, and then it started . . . the lights were completely put out and the doors shut. . .

And we saw FIRE!


Both Saturday and Sunday these young men in loin cloths lite their batons and do a "Africa in flames" dance to drumming . . .


It was hard for me to watch as they leaped and tossed those fiery sticks . . they really were close to those DRY thatched huts . . . scary.


Yet that wasn't the highlight of the evenings. Instead it was the speaker that we call Melo, who is a most unassuming bible smuggler who's faith in God to get him through and keep him safe is entirely humbling.


Then he gave his invitation . . anyone feeling like they wanted to join him on his next bible smuggling trip could if they met with four small requirements:


a) they raise a little under $2000 for plane tickets

b) they have the blessing of their pastor and if minors, permission of their parents

c) they be willing to risk 8 years in a middle eastern prison or

d) their life


Not much.


His motto . . . . "Hasta la muerte"

"To the death."

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Birthday Pictures!

My 4 year mom-aversary.

Yeah, she's 4 and we threw a party . . . but relatively to the culture of jump houses and pinatas it was pretty low key.

Still it was really fun!
LOTS of sugar all around and friends to boot.
A success!

A birthday video

Just for fun. My deaf friend Virginia is taking the video and the little girl with dark hair is her daughter, great friends with mine. The only voices you hear belong to my family . . . LOL!

Saturday, November 03, 2007

Starbuks in Ensenada

Well, in regard to this post, about Starbucks in Ensenada, my friend Virginia and I went, with 5 kids between us, and had a latte.

For a double shot soy latte (my drink of choice) it was 39 pesos . . that's about $3.50 . . . mas o menos.

And the taste was comparable to state side Starbucks, and the decor igual (that means "the same") . . .

I'm happy.

I've been found out!

Delighted I am to have been 'discovered' by my cousin Sandy -
I can't put my finger on it but something really resonates in me with her . . . (YOU, SANDY, ARE A DELIGHT!, did you know that?)
Anyway I am thrilled to find her a new blogger at:
Entropy
Her sense of humor just floors me too . . . Entropy is the name of her dog.
One of the ideas involved in the concept of entropy is that nature tends to go from order to disorder.
Perfect dog name.
So I'm sending some linky love her way, say Hi for me if you stop by.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Romans 10:14

How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?

Yesterday, talking with Virginia - my deaf friend - she was lamenting how many of the deaf congregation can not pick up and read the bible for themselves. In church they are asking so many questions, they're hungry for the Word!

If they are able to read, the text of the bible often is just too much for them to understand.
It's a completely other language than sign. It's hard to understand.
She felt that it was unfortunate that in the USA there are several resources for deaf Christians to study and learn the bible in ASL (American Sign Language) but none here.

So what is a deaf christian to do?

That's one of the reasons that her husband, Carlos, the deaf pastor, wants to make a Mexican Signed Bible and other bible study resources on DVD. A huge task, but so necessary.

Until then?

I told Virginia that there are several countries and languages where the people do not read. And back in the bible days there was no bible for them to pick up and read . . . so how did those christian grow? How do the tribal people without written language learn about God?

We tell them!

And may the Holy Spirit be our guide, but we tell them!

McDonald's in the Mission Field

The title sounds so much more dramatic than this post really is . . .

But I was reading over at Blakes in Thailand about their experience with Pizza Hut there and sweet Ketchup and I was reminded that this Friday Ensenada is getting it's very own STARBUCKS! WOO HOO!!!!
To join our now so popular McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, Carl's Jr, Peter Piper Pizza, Applebee's, Wal-Mart, Cost-Co . . . oh, and Dairy Queen.
But like the Blakes . . .Carl's Jr is considered "fine dinning" and not for the penny pinchers like ourselves.

A small family can eat there for about $30, expensive eating for around here. But BOY do these places have some whopper PLAY PLACES! All indoor, all air conditioned . . .

So it goes that if all these are high priced, even compared to their American counterparts, what will a tall double shot soy latte go for here?!?!?!?

Guesses?

Friday, October 19, 2007

Aloha Friday


The question this week:
Why do you blog?
Ah, the ultimate blog question
  • I am socially charged . . meaning, when my emotional tank is getting low I throw a game night at my home, and come away flying.I need people to not lose it,
  • I need to feel justified for still paying off student loans for a BA,
  • I need contact and communication and sometimes a reality check
  • plus a good way to keep in contact with those far away
  • friends, dawg-gone-it! Friends!
Wouldn't you know the blog can do this? Plus it is a type of journal, and whatnot . . . a way to travel the world while staying at home.
I like that.

Pictures




The newborn . . .
The eldest . . .
The food-nabber . . .



The result of mom trying to take a nap . . . . can't see the floor! *ack!*




Do notice the gallon of ice cream little Missy helped herself too, along with the peanut butter . . .


Mom's response:






Monday, October 15, 2007

Life with a newborn

Oh! We are seeing his first smiles now! That is always so delightful.

But I've noticed two changes in habits since he's arrived:
*It is easy to not change into jammies (after I've gotten out of them) for a day or more and
*I've cease making my bed
for the same reason that there isn't a "bed time" for me right now since he is nursing every 2-3 hours. Instead I just seam to nap sporadically through out this 24 hour period.

The unmade bed to me is like wishful thinking . . . "why make it, I'll be back under the covers soon" even though that may not be the case . . .

Speaking of which, I guess I'll get under those covers now . . .

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Cops and Robbers

Cops and Robbers

Sally had three very active boys. One summer evening, she
was playing cops and robbers in the back yard after dinner.
One of the boys "shot" his mother and yelled, "Bang! You're
dead." She slumped to the ground, and when she didn't get up
right away, a neighbor ran over to see if she had been hurt
in the fall.

When the neighbor bent over, the overworked mother opened
one eye and said, "Shhh. Don't give me away. It's the only
chance I've had to rest all day."

Received from Thomas Ellsworth.

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Climb to the top of the charts! Play Star Shuffle: the word scramble challenge with star power. Play Now!

Monday, October 08, 2007

It is finnished!

I am finally done typing our ministry newsletter! Woo Hoo!!!
It should have been done in September . . . but you know, I was kinda busy . .

Our ministry newsletter is posted in two parts over on our ministry blog . . .

Baja Compassion Ministries
Heather, thank you for googling what to do with eggs in the carpet!
LOL
It worked . . . :-)

Saturday, October 06, 2007

*DEEP SIGH*

So . . .anyone out there know the best way to get a dozen raw eggs out of the kids room carpet?

Tuesday, October 02, 2007

I think it was cactus.

Today, the ladies from the Gran Ciudad of Porvenir, also known as 'Poh-Dunk' are starting something new and of great blessing to us! That is saying a lot, since it is well known that things just don't change much in Porvenir. It's the predecessor to Never-never land.

I went to church last Sunday - the baby being a week old, may be unusual, but I don't think unheard of, and I do so love me some good churching . . . but when I walked through a room on my way to change the newborn's diaper, a lady of the church gave looked at me with HUGE SAUCER EYES . .

"I can't believe your here!!!"

I mumbled something in response akin to me staying in the house all week, and I'm ready to get OUT . . . so she started to tell me about the "La Cuarentena"

La cuarentena is the 40-day postpartum period during which the mother is to rest and adjust to having a new infant. During this recuperation period, the mother is discouraged from getting out of bed for the first few hours after birth, if at all, unless she needs to use the bathroom. She is also discouraged from taking showers for several days. Another friend told me that she had heard that they were discouraged from taking showers for the WHOLE 40 days. To provide for this mother-newborn bonding time, family members usually take care of household chores.

Nice, huh?

Anyway . . . since I don't have any extra help at the home, my non-blogging gal pal arranged for these ladies to make us dinner for two weeks. This is something I hear of more and more happening state side, but a NEW NEW NEW idea to these ladies.

And today we got our first feast!

I think it was cactus . . . " nopal", but I'm not 100% sure, mixed with beef . . .I hope it was beef. It was tasty, slightly squeaky when we ate it, with Spanish rice and re fried beans, and corn tortillas . . . all home made except the tortillas.

I am grateful!

And if anything this promises to be a dining adventure!!!
doing better

Monday, October 01, 2007

How am I?

I'm feeling the pull of the sleep deprived as my newborn gets on a routine.
Barely hanging in there.
Trying not to snap too many times at the other two kiddos . . one of which wants to just be ON the baby . . .
the count is up to 4 times that she - my independent 3 year old has brought the newborn to where ever I was. Usually it is when we (newborn and I ) are trying to catch some zzz's . . *sigh*
And the graciousness in which my loving hubby has been helping me out has officially worn out with today's comment "Do you have something against 'clean'?"

It'll pass . . .
and quickly, I know . .
it'll pass
it'll pass
it'll pass . . .

Saturday, September 29, 2007

some pun-nies

1. A bicycle can't stand alone because it is two-tired.

2. What's the definition of a will? It's a dead giveaway.

3. Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

4. She had a boyfriend with a wooden leg, but broke it off.

5. A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion.

6. If you don't pay your exorcist, you get repossessed.

7. With her marriage she got a new name and a dress.

8. When a clock is hungry, it goes back four seconds.

9. The man who fell into an upholstery machine is fully
recovered.

10. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result
in Linoleum Blownapart.

11. He often broke into song because he couldn't find the
key.

12. A lot of money is tainted. 'Taint yours and 'taint mine.

13. A boiled egg in the morning is hard to beat.

14. He had a photographic memory that was never developed.

15. Those who get too big for their britches will be exposed
in the end.

16. When you've seen one shopping center, you've seen a
mall.

17. Those who jump off a Paris bridge are in Seine.

18. When an actress saw her first strands of gray hair, she
thought she'd dye.

19. Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead-to-know basis.

20. Marathon runners with bad footwear suffer the agony of
defeat.

Received from FranCMT2.

--
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Monday, September 24, 2007

Lessons learned by Living.

Sensitive natures, and related members of my family whom are male may chose to skip this post as it talks about "girl things".

My non-blogging gal-pal Karen (*wave!* Hi there Karen) and I were talking that we ought to put together a book about the things we learned, stuff I've yet to find in "What to Expect Your First Year" or other such helpful books. Here is one of my contributions:

Avoiding Headlights while Nursing.

The first time I came across padded nursing bras I was at a loss as to why anyone would want to stuff and package sore and swelling jugs into something like that . . with WIRE no less. . .

I was given one such padded boulder holder and always felt that after you folded down the cup to nurse - I felt like I was being served on a platter, propped and ready, and I never found that very comfortable . . . .

But though living, I have learned that nursing nips are like solderers ready to stand to attention at any provocation - this is problematic in any normal situation, but is particularly trouble some when I have to get in front of a group of very observant deaf and sign the worship songs in church. I blush at thinking of causing that sort of distraction.

Hence my new found appreciation for padded nursing bras. They really do help tame the little boogers. Up until I had more than one such bra the only other option I had was placing said boogers in their place - pointing downward.

Yes, I am grateful for padded nursing bras, and that is a lessons learned by living.

Saturday, September 22, 2007

He's arrived!

Our family has grown by two feet . . .

7 lbs 6 oz
19 inches long

I went in on Monday for the amniocentesis, the results were that his lungs were mature so they sent me to my room to be induced . . . only to find that during the transfer he turned himself sideways so he was born via cesarean.

And yes, he does have a stork bite right in the middle of his forehead the shape of a "V" . . .

So, recovering and doing well - thank you all for your prayers!

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Well, I'm off for a while . . .

We mnister in Ensenada, and our doctors are in San Diego.

It is really nice sometimes to be so close to the boarder. We've been able to maintain our health care in the states which has been particularly helpful for my husband who lives with peritoneal dialysis.




And now, I get to have this baby where I've had my other babies. And tonight we are packing.
I'm not in labor, but I have a doctors appointment tomorrow, and then on the 17th they are going to do the amniocentesis to see if the baby's lungs are mature, if they are they are going to induce labor. So we have to be ready for a stay.

Besides, my hubby kind of wants me to stay put state side from here until the baby is born 'just in case' . . . . so with a weeks worth of clothing for everyone we are heading out.

I don't have a lap top, so I probably won't be posting again until I'm back "home" in Mexico. Perhaps, just perhaps I'll have a friend post an update . . . or if I do get to a computer before then. But I'll promise you nothing.

Either way . . . I'm outta here!

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

"With hurricanes, tornadoes, fires out of control, mudslides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up thecountry from one end to another, and with the threat of birdflu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good timeto take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?" - Jay Leno

Seasick

My hubby loves the ocean, he loves to fish . . . so when a neighboring ministry invited him to go out on a boat to fish he was ecstatic!
Later that night he came back, smiling from ear to ear . . I asked how many fish he caught and he said "No fish, didn't even get my fishing rod in the water." Because apparently he may love the ocean, but the ocean doesn't love him and he spent almost the entire trip laying down, quite seasick.
Crazy thing is, he loved it! Not the being sick part, but everything else, and he is wiling to hop on the next trip . . . .

I don't understand it, but oh well . . .*shrug*

So when I ran across this joke I was reminded of my hubby . . . thought I'd share.

Seasick

John had never been on a fishing boat before, and he was now
thinking it was the stupidest thing he'd ever done in his
life.

Who would ever have believed that seasickness could be this
awful? With every pitch and roll, John wondered how he was
going to survive the remaining two hours of the trip.

One of the deckhands came up to him and said, "Don't worry,
young fella. Nobody ever died of seasickness."

"You've just taken away my last hope for relief," John said.

Received from pkaine.

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A cheerful heart is good medicine... (Prov 17:22a)

Sunday, September 09, 2007

!!!!

See what has me shaking my head in disbelief over at Deaf World Missions.

"People who do not know the Lord ask why in the world do we waste our lives as missionaries? They forget they too are expending their lives and when the bubble has burst they will have nothing of eternal significance to show for the years they have lived." Nate Saint, martyr
(found this quote at The Blakes in Thailand)

Some days are better than others . . .






Typically about 4pm I have spent all my energy and pure routine gets me though the rest of the evening before the kids go to bed.


Yesterday was no different except that hubby gave me a task to complete in the kitchen that I was spending some extra time and energy on, and packing a bag of clothes for the kids to stay with their aunt and uncle once I go to the hospital to have this kiddo, and for some reason my son was SUPER clingy and fussy . . . I was REALLY running on fumes.






Then my 3 year old informs me "Got the hair out of my eyes!"






Which translated to . . . I gave myself a half mullet, mom! . . . I tried to work it out, fix it up BUT that is one area where I have NO talent, and I can't say I improved anything . . .






By the time my hubby got home, I was in tears, the kitchen was a mess, and there was hair everywhere in the living room.

But that was then . . .




This morning started off great!



It was pure delight signing for the deaf worship at church, the songs were up-beat, meaningful and familiar enough to me so that I could express them well for the deaf . . .


It was great . . .


Since my novice hair stylist has been battling diarrhea since Thursday and going through diapers like crazy during the night, we had to do an emergency run to the Wal-Mart here in Mexico after church since we were down to NONE, not one extra diaper for our boy.


We were all having a fun time, my kids quite used to not being able to afford anything, we are PRO window shoppers . . . . when . . .


Right in the middle of the pink girly aisle my little boy, who up tell now was laying down in the cart since it would otherwise be his normal nap time, he sits up and did "the burp".


You mama's all know the burp I'm talking about . . . the "reversing gears" 30 second warning that you better move anything you don't want to buy . . .


We were caught unprepared . . . and as I told dad "Uh oh, he's gonna blow!" My boy chirped in the Wal - Mart aisle.


Isn't that just classic. I feel like I just passed through some mothering rite of passage.


And right there in the same shopping center as Wal-Mart in Ensenada is Home Depo, and my hubby needed to get some things there . . . by this time I'm exhausted, boy only wants to be cuddled in my arms and even little Missy is content to wait in the car for dad.


I mentioned that she is battling diarrhea, right? Well, guess what was next. . .


Sure enough she's got to go NOW . . . and I am in no condition to run, much less with a 32 lbs spouting boy on my belly . . . so I instruct her *SHHHHHHHHH* to go to that little tree there between the cars . . .


IT WAS AN EMERGENCY!!!!!


But we are home now . . . *WHEW*!!!!!


Tierra Firma has never smelled so sweet . . . ehem, let me take that back, it CERTAINLY has smelled sweeter . . I mean it has never felt so good! Even if little boy has developed the leak-right-through-the-diaper-all-over-the-carpet-diarrhea that his sister had, and a bright red butt to boot . . .


He's sleeping, she's watching "Curious George" for the second time in a row, and even Hubby is napping.


Me?


I told you this morning worship was a blessing to me . . . and the Joy remains . . .

I may not feel like doing the dishes for today and the ones that I didn't do last night, nor do I feel much like hanging up the load of laundry that waits for me . . .

But I've got that peace . . . the peace that really does pass all understanding . . .
So, I'll call this a good day.
How 'bout you?


Saturday, September 08, 2007

Prayer works! But you knew that already . . .




Thanks to all who were praying that this little boy flip over . . !!!!




God heard




God answered




And so we are back to plan A




On the 17th I'll be going in for an amniocentesis and if baby's lungs are mature we'll induce.




But were also keeping the C-section date . . . just in case this boy is a gymnast at heart and on the 17th we find him breach again . . .




Here's me getting everything ready . . . .

Wednesday, September 05, 2007

Wordless Wednesday

Little big girl's off to all Spanish speaking pre-school in her uniform . . . .*sniff**sigh*
(Technically it's called the second year of kindergarten here. The first year of kindergarten is for 3 year old.)


Friday, August 31, 2007

"Tomalo" or "Take It All" - Hillsong United

This song I first heard at a youth gathering here in Ensenada . . . IT SO ROCKED! I got the CD as soon as I could . . . and here to find that they have this album in English and Spanish.

I have the Spanish version, but for your listening pleasure I've included the English version too . . .

It's ALMOST enough to make this mama jump up and down like a teenager . . . almost.

My spirit is jumping.

The Spanish version:


Tómalo (Take it All)
Álbum: Unidos Permaneceremos

De todo lugar los perdidos vendrán,
en libertad, a ti clamarán,
llevaste la cruz, moriste, vivo estás,
mi Dios, a ti mi vida te daré.

Enviaste a Jesús, por mi salvación,
Por la eternidad en ti tengo perdón,
Busqué la verdad y te encontré a ti,
mi Dios, a ti mi vida te daré.

Jesús, por ti yo viviré,
de ti nunca me avergonzaré
Te doy todo lo que soy,
toma, tómalo, toma, tómalo.

Eres el que vista al ciego da,
Brillas en la oscuridad,
La salvación del mundo en tus manos, está.



The English version:



Hillsong United - Take It All Lyrics

Searching in the world
The lost will be found
In freedom we live
As one we cry out

You carry the cross
You died and rose again
My God I’ll only ever give my all

You sent Your Son
From Heaven to earth
Delivered us all
It’s eternally heard

I searched for truth
And all I found was You
My God I’ll only ever give my all

Jesus we’re living for Your Name
We’ll never be ashamed of You
In our praise
And in all we are today
Take, take, take it all

Running to the One who heals the blind
Following the shining light
In Your hands the power to save the world
My life

This blog's content.

Hello all . . .



This is becoming a 'baby inbound' blog. Life goes on here, it really does, but honestly there is little of my mind left, and it is pretty much on baby's arrival.



Hence this blogs latest theme . . . *ehem*



I spent three days state side at numerous doctors appointments this last week . . . all by myself (and wouldn't you know my blood sugar numbers were GREAT!) then right when I got back I got asked to go and help interpret at a doctors appointment the next morning.



Yes, ministry does continue, my hubby continues to be busy with various projects for different ministries . . . I'll be interpreting worship this Sunday, and trying to write up a newsletter for our supporters before this little guy comes.



Now that we are back on the subject of this little guy . . .



Previously on Between diapers and Dishes I told you that my doctor wanted me to get an amniocentesis on the 17th, and possibly deliver baby. Well, after an ultrasound showed that this little gymnast has now placed himself in breach position an amniocentesis would be too risky and hence we had to schedule a C-section.



The soonest that the hospital had available for a scheduled C-section is Sep 30. The day before my due date. So, now it is just my fingers being crossed that kiddo wants to come out early on his own. I AM SO READY!



I never had a C-section and would much rather baby come on his own.



Meanwhile - My house is being taken over by battalions of immortal vicious tiny red ants that are biting us and quick to move on any crumb. My soon to be 4 year old has started public school where they only speak Spanish, and my hubby has an appointment to speak to a doctor about having his thyroid removed . . . (recalling that he does live with kidney failure) since his possphorates are too high and his red blood cell level too low.



Oh and want some candy sprinkles with this cake??? The hospital where I am planning on delivering is getting their whole maternity ward remodeled starting Monday.


Just as long as my recovery room isn't in the halls!!!



There are so many things I want to tell you about . . .


  • the ultra sound guy that looks like he should be in a soap opera

  • the receptionist guy in the maternity ward that is called "Ish"

  • why triage should not be the place where Non-stress tests are done

  • how this whole, ministry in Mexico, delivery in USA is going on

But here's the bottom line . . . I'll be in here much less than I have been. I'll be visiting less too . . but I'll still be in orbit around this bloggity universe . . . right now I must be off to put away the MOUNTAIN of clothes that my darling hubby was good enough to wash while I was away . . .

Hasta luego!

Saturday, August 25, 2007

We're down to days . .

Pregnancy update:

My blood sugars are starting to get crazy again . . .my doctor tells me this is normal because this is the big time for growth, hormone craziness.

Since we are having blood sugar troubles she wants to give me an amniocentesis test at 38 weeks. If the baby's lungs are developed then we will induce then, if not we will try at 39 week, but whatever the outcome . . . my doctor will not let me go beyond my due date.

And in the back of my mind, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for this baby to be born like my last one . . at 37 weeks . . .

So that places the due date of this one anywhere from September 10- Oct 1st, with a high likelihood on Sep 17th. What I will call the "anytime" zone.

15 days until were in the "anytime" zone!

15 days.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Groaner Bird Riddles

I'd ask if your ready to laugh . . but these will more than likely make you groan . . .

Silly Bird Riddles

What birds spend all their time on their knees?
Birds of prey.

What do you call a very rude bird?
A mockingbird.

Where do birds meet for coffee?
In a nest-cafe.

What do you call a bunch of chickens playing hide-and-seek?
Fowl play.

What language do birds speak?
Pigeon English.

What do you give a sick bird?
Tweetment.

What do you get if you cross a parrot with a shark?
A bird that will talk you ear off.

What happened when the owl lost his voice?
He didn't give a hoot.

What do you get if you cross a parrot with a centipede?
A great walkie-talkie.

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A cheerful heart is good medicine... (Prov 17:22a)

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

And now the good news . . .

After a pot of coffee . . .(baby forgive mom's hard day)


Here is something delightful!


Everyday Me . . . passed this award to me . . .




Blogger Reflection Award: this award should make an individual reflect upon five bloggers who have been an encouragement, a source of love, impacted you in some way, and who have provided an example. In other words, five dear bloggers whom, when you reflect upon them, you are filled with a sense of pride and joy. . .of knowing them and being blessed by them.

So I'll pass this on to

for the above stated reasons!!! :-)

Then we have a PRAISE REPORT!

Here and Here I asked for prayer for our deaf pastor Carlos to not be forgotten when someone promised him a computer and camera to make Mexican Sign Language bible study DVD's and such . . .and it is coming to pass!!!!

I just spent the morning translating for him, training him on the camera . . . it's so exciting!!!

Thanks to all who have lifted this need up in prayer!

What a mood lifter!!!

This gal is quickly becoming a favorite read of mine! . . . .

Just what the doctor ordered today . . as she and her family prepare to go to South Africa to be missionaries there with the deaf she writes a rather long, but most enjoyable post . . .

Do see for yourself!

My Life as JulieMom

One of those days . . .

Ever have one of those days where something said, or done, just took the wind out of your sails?

I'm there today.

I do have lots of good news to share with you all . . .

but as for right now . . .

*sigh*

Friday, August 17, 2007

Friends vs Southern Friends

A lot of my friends, bloggity and otherwise, are southern gals . . .
I love these kinds of friend . .

Friends vs Southern Friends

FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Always bring the food. And lots of it.

FRIENDS: Will say "hello."
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will give you a big hug and a kiss. More
than one.

FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Call your parents Mom and Dad, and really
mean it, too.

FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Cry with you. And for you.

FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will spend hours there, talking, laughing,
and just being together. Then do the dishes before leaving.

FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from
you. And most of the time know you better than you do
yourself.

FRIENDS: Would knock on your door.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Walk right in and say, "I'm home!" If you
are not home they will wait.

FRIENDS: Are for a while.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Are for life. And then some.

If one is deprived of Southern Friends, this will serve as
an excellent educational tool for why they need to look into
the possibility.

Brought to you by GCFL.net: The Good, Clean Funnies List
A cheerful heart is good medicine... (Prov 17:22a)
Mail address: GCFL, Box 100, Harvest, AL 35749, USA

The latest GCFL funny can always be found on the web at
http://www.gcfl.net/latest.php

Thursday, August 16, 2007

The middle name meme.

A wandering heart tagged me . . . .



THE RULES:
1. You have to post these rules before you give the facts.


2. You must list one fact that is somehow relevant to your life for each letter of your middle name. If you don’t have a middle name, use the middle name you would have liked to have had.

3. When you are tagged, you need to write your own blog post containing the middle name game facts.

4. At the end of your blog post, you need to choose one person for each letter of your middle name to tag. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged!



I am glad my middle name is a short one, even though it's got some tricky letters . . . . It is . . . *drum roll please*



V-Very often I will drink straight from my milk jug. This does gross my husband out, but he doesn't drink the skim milk anyway . . . but still, I will do it out of his sight.



I-I pretty much say what I mean, and mean what I say . . . so I'm often oblivious and/or otherwise surprised when other's arn't. Without intending to, I've sometimes offended someone because of this . . . . they said they were fine, and I believed them! I wouldn't last long in Japan.



V-Virgil, Verlie, Valoris, Violet, Veronica . . . these are my aunts and uncle, and my middle name comes from my mother Vivian. Ironically my grandmother lost a baby girl between Virgil and Verlie . . . her name was Oletha or somethin like, not V.



I- I aspire to think deep here . . . have deep thoughts, and inspiring moments on this blog . . but dawg-gone it, by the time I sit, they usually evaporate . .. what I then find is that often my comments are more "spiritual" and meaningful than this blog . . . but hey, what can I do, I'm working with pregnancy brain here! And I'm still a mother wiping more butts than just my own, and that does something to you . . . it really does. (please if you take any offence to the reference to wiping butts here, don't tell me, just accept my apology)



A- And I think I just heard my 3 year old turn on the video "Star Wars" . . . .I better go check . . . yup, and that would be her dad's influence . . . Veggie Tales??? Oh, no Luke Skywalker!



N- Not all sign language is universal . . . it's something I find myself talking about almost every Sunday. And yes, it would be easier if it were all the same, but the question remains - who's sign?- Besides, same could be said of spoken language . . . But most importantly . . . different languages was God's idea (see Genesis 11). . . so I'll leave it at that.



Now the tricky part . . .finding bloggers to tag . .



V- can't think of any blogger with V . . .

I- I'm over my head, under His Grace (ha ha! Kelly, STILL got ya!)

V- so if your name is Verlie, Valoris, Vivian, Veronica or Violet - consider yourself tagged.

I- If your interested, Your tagged! (sneeky, I know)

A- Amy from Amy's Blah blah blog

N-nope, I'm out of ideas . . . if your name starts with "N" consider yourself tagged, and let me know who you are.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Wordless Wednesday

Has anyone noticed????


Our profile picture . . . nice family shot right?


Take a closer look . . . .




Tuesday, August 14, 2007

An award!


Rosemarie nominated me! Isn't this just the sweetest!


Apparently this award is for those blogger who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also, for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world. Once you've been awarded please pass it on to 7 others who you feel are deserving of this award.


Really this is the fun part . . passing this niceness on . . . so here we go ladies . . .



  1. Yellow Mama
  2. Bev
  3. Juilemom
  4. Kelli
  5. Kelly
  6. Rhonda
  7. Rebekah

Monday, August 13, 2007

Here's some Total Momsense

So, I'm practicing . . .:-)

We celebrate his life . . thankful for the two years God has given him. We are blessed!



Happy Birthday big boy!

Sunday, August 05, 2007

Not your Hollywoood cry.



Clair Danes, in my opinion, got casted because of her chin quiver . . . you know, her face just before she cries . . .she has a two thumbs up chin quiver, better than anyone I know!



Otherwise, the trick to crying for the camera is to look lovely doing it . . with big o'l eyes, and some tears, quietly, lovely . . .

I would never get casted. I cry ugly. I mean, scrunched up face, squeals like a runt pig, U.G.L.Y.

Even when I'm trying to hold it together, it isn't pretty.

Well . . . then the challenge lately since I've been interpreting for worship and such and have been so hormonally challenged.

The songs just GET TO ME . . . and, well,

it's just not pretty.

It'll have to do for now.

It's a good thing I don't have to try to sing as well!!!

Saturday, July 28, 2007

And now the REST of the story . . . .

SO . . .

Did you see the lady in her rubber gloves, pjs, morning hair and au naturale face frantically digging through her garbage that was out on the curb already to be picked up by the garbage man? Her husband standing there holding three other garbage bags?

Here you can get . . . THE REST OF THE STORY!

I would like to also mention that I am a new reader of Juliemom, and have found her a very expressive writer . . which I love.

Not only that, but soon her, her husband (deaf), and three girls are going to South Africa to be missionaries with the deaf there . . .How Cool is that?!?!?!

Ants go marching on.


My sink right now is outlined by baby powder.

Why? you may ask . . .

Because of a lot of little black ants.

After trying to use those little ant bait hotels and other remedies, we found out that Windex will kill them on contact. But with their numbers they win the battle, and Windex is only going to clear a spot for you at that moment.

Really, for being in a 'foreign country' it could have been a lot worse. I know this, so I'm fairly tolerant of these little creepy crawlers . . .

Lately they've been loving the kitchen. My husband says they would go away if we didn't have crumbs laying around.

So, ye mothers, when does it happen that you get a crumb free house with kids????

Picture me washing dishes and this line of little black ants crawling about, up and down the wall, around the sink. I'd Windex 'em, clean up the carnage, but soon reinforcements would be taking up where their little buddies left off . . .

I felt like Cinderella with her mice friends. Started talking to these guys, resigned that if I couldn't lick 'em . . . but every once and a while I'd find one on me. *HATE that* and it had to end!

Then from the recesses of my mind I remembered that somewhere I heard that ants don't like baby powder, and baby powder I have! So I drew my line around the kitchen sink and so far it's working!!!!

Shame, though, I couldn't have taught them how to make me a party dress . . .

Monday, July 23, 2007

A tire swing and little green men.

We would have gone on Sunday, but there was something happening at the new and improved neighborhood park so that it was P.A.C.K.E.D and with my pregnant self and two small ones I promised to return later.


Later (aka this morning) there is hardly any one there, and the Rotary Club did a NICE job . . .


My kids take to inspecting all the new play equipment seriously and with some delight I am able to introduce them to . .


da Ta DA!!!


The Tire Swing!


Oh the memories!


I know you have those memories, if you have the park tire swing memory at all, and in any healthy childhood it should include someone getting sick on it.


Therefore, to do my part I get them spinning.


THEY LOVE IT!

Both want more and faster . . . it becomes an interesting experiment as to where the limits are. Finally my eldest says she's had enough and wants to go climb something . . . off she goes, but when I remove my boy, he starts to cry . . . and tries to get back on, but he can barely find his legs . . .


You know, some lessons really need to be learned first hand.


Obligingly I place him back on and give him a spin, albeit a slower spin and after a few rounds you see his smile fade considerably . . . and suddenly he is done with the tire swing . . .


I pull him off, hold him, because at this point he is not able to walk at all.


One burp, two, we get baptized with the grape juice that he had earlier. All over my white maternity top, I might add!! But I can't stop giggling - because life is as it should be -


He doesn't feel well the rest of the morning and stays snuggled close to me, so soon we head home. Eat, nap and it's afternoon snack time.


My boy is still napping, but I sit down for some pickles, wrapped in cream cheese spread ham slices, and notice this:

How very "Toy's"-esk. Can't see it? Here:


Aiming directly at me . . .

Yup.

I think I'm being warned.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

The peace before the storm

Today my hubby's parents arrive for 5 days.



I am in that rare moment that there is a bit of quiet and all is *almost* as it should be.



Boy is napping, dinner is in the crock pot, daughter is watching 'sound of music' and the house is presentable for the most part except that daughter has the couch cushions off the couch and they have been transformed into either a bridge or a boat . . .



Anyway, that's doable.



It has been tiring already keeping things straightened after these two kiddos.



What did someone say before . . . . ah yes, "like nailing jello to the wall" . . .



Aaahh well. I'm ok, after all, she is a mother too . . .



A delightful treat has been that my brother and his wife (in the video here) will be coming over tonight too . . . for me that is all sugar . . .



So if you don't hear from me . . .

Saturday, July 14, 2007

At the coffee anonymous meeting . . .

Hi, my name is Michelle.
(the small hall sounds out "Hello, Michelle")
I've been an addict off and on for most of my adult life. But it started much earlier.

I remember when I was just a child - a child by grabthars hammer! - when in the basement of the Lutheran church ('cause all "good" Lutheran churches have a basement) other addicts would give me some . . . CAUSE THEY THOUGHT IT WAS CUTE!!!!!

I never had a chance!

I've re-posted this post in response to Belizagial's Blog about caffeine.

Now, I'm not guzzling coffee during this pregnancy . . . so don't worry. But I do think loving coffee during pregnancy affects your kids . . . both my kids BEG for sips of my coffee. I've restricted them to a finger dab at a time . . . but you know . . .

Here's an excellent article about caffeine.

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

What a delightful meme!

I've been tagged by Heavenly Voice . . .

It's "The 5 things I dig (love) about Jesus" meme.

Here are the Rules:
Those Tagged will share 5 things they love (dig) about Jesus.
Those tagged will tag 5 other bloggers.
Those tagged will provide a link in the comments section here of their meme so that others can read them and the creator of this meme John Smulo.


  • I love that Jesus is our lover, and with anticipation like a groom for his bride on the wedding night was able to endure the cross for me!
  • I love that He is available and ever there for us.
  • I love that I can approach Him with even the small stuff . . . like where I left my keys . . .
  • I love that He is a gentleman in his approach with us.
  • I love that He doesn't condemn me, criticize me, but instead is my defender, my shelter and is my resting place.

I could go on, but I will now leave that for the five (or more if you want, consider yourself tagged) that I tag.

Kelly (of course, cause I tag you for every meme)
Life in Oaxaca
Missionary Mom
Barefoot in the garden
Happy Mom

Monday, July 09, 2007


I wish, I really really wish this could be me.

Unfortunately I am restricted from all that good stuff . . . *sigh*

Speaking of pregnancy . . . I've been promoted (?) to the use of insulin to keep blood sugars at good levels. It's such fun stuff.
But back to the photo . . . my nesting instincts (which are at her level) have been given a kick in the ever expanding posterior, considering that my in-laws are coming! They will be here next week and be staying for about two weeks. So I am tackling one or two rooms at a time, with the help of a friend *GOD BLESS HER!!!!*
Now if I can just remember NOT to put the milk in the cabinet . . . .

Saturday, June 30, 2007

An award!

*blush*



Would you look at this . . . Scratchin' the Surface nominated me for my first award EVER!



*giggle* Someone thinks I rock!

She says its been a year *ALREADY?* that we've known each other via a blog bible study. WOW! And here I thought it was me who was getting all the insight and blessings from her! Well, thank you Bev!

And now I get to spread the love to five people I think 'rock' . . . . oh joy!

#1 Tales From the (Momma) Hood is a gal I have been following since she was Cheerio Butt . . . I love her wacky humor, her love for life, and the fact that she can look so good mothering 6 young-uns.

#2 Sarah from Sermon on the Mount of Laundry has been my buddy-prego-gal and a staunch supporter of all that is natal. She has two boys and is going to have a girl ANY DAY NOW! How exciting is that!

#3 is Chaotic Mom from The Chaotic Home. A fellow coffee addict, she speaks like a zillion languages, designed my blog, has three active boys, two of which are deaf with cochlear implants, but still, she and them sign (which I love) . . . she's moved more often then the years she's been married and is EVER learning something new. I am actually in awe of her. In awe.

#4 Barefoot in the Garden used to be Chaotic Mom's neighbor (until CM moved) and is how I got to know her. She is honest with her struggles and joys and I really appreciate that. She, along with her darling kids, has spoiled me rotten and showered me and my kids with love. She's the type of lady that feels like a kindred spirit, even though we have never actually 'met'. I sincerely hope some day we do.

#5 Kelly from I'm in over my head, but under His grace was my neighbor back in the day before she moved, and my good friend and confidant. If there is any dirt to know about me, she knows it, and if I have any rants to rave she hears it. Her husband is hard of hearing and was the pastor here to the deaf of Ensenada for years before they passed the mantel on to Carlos Suarez. People often mistook us for sisters, and in many ways we are. I feel like I've 'grown up' with her. She may not get to post all that often (or as often as I'd like) but she rocks nonetheless!