Life Wrapped In Pink

stretched

2012-01-31T19:42:00.005-05:00

I want to enjoy the little moments.
I want to have balance to be able to really enjoy the little moments.
And being totally honest, totally raw.... lately I feel stretched.

Playing outside one pretty evening.... and soaking it ALL up!

Some days I have felt that "tight in my chest, really can't breathe" kind of stretched and it is hard. Being a working mommy is difficult and as much as I wake up, attempt to put on my rose colored glasses, and choose joy- it isn't every day that this routine is successful. There are days that I go to work dragging with a heart that feels like it must be breaking as I leave it with my family at home. There are days when I have to stay home a little longer to eat breakfast with my girls and cuddle an extra minute just so that I can make it for the next 8 hours. Then some mornings I think I have it figured out and I walk into work only to find defeat waiting at my classroom door. It has been one of those months.

A spontaneous birthday breakfast celebration.... on a Monday!

So I can mope around, and be sad- but friends, I tried that for the ENTIRE first year of Ivy's life and it proved to be a total FAIL! I was sad at home because I had to go to work the next day, I was sad at work because I had left Ivy at home, and every weekend I spent dreading Sunday night and every work week I spent longing for Friday afternoon. So it was a lot of time wasted away being anything but happy. And while I wish I could say I was enjoying the little moments, I wasn't doing that at all.

So now, my life situation has not changed. My work schedule cannot change. And on most days, I love my job. I take that back, everyday I love teaching and most days I do so without defeat. But there are a lot of other things about working that cause distraction and disruption in my time at home, my summer's off, and add that to the ever accessible internet and I am stretched too thin.

It is these little moments but BIG memories that I long for more of.

So I am going to do something different. I am going to guard my time like it is a prized possession- which it is. I am not engaging in time wasters since my time for family feels like it has been robbed from me when I put my babies to bed at the end of a "too quick, too busy" day. I am working to prioritize things at school so that I can get home and feel good about the condition of my plans and my classroom- but know that there is always going to be more that I can do, no matter how long I stay the list will keep growing. And last, I am putting on my armor and shouting it from the roof tops "I am MOMMY first." My children are little once and there will be time for extras, but for now, I am learning to say no. No, I won't be able to make it to that event that I am just feeling obligated to attend. No, I won't be able to take on the extra work responsibility. No, I won't be able to cook for this or join you for that. I want to be polite, I want to have tact, and I want to quit having to stretch my way through life.

This is what I am fighting for....

Goodbye January, you have been a tough one for me.
Hoping for more balance and a lot more time to enjoy the little moments with my family.

It's these moments....

2012-01-27T20:37:00.000-05:00

"The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."
~ Dr. Suess

Little Mover

2012-01-21T10:38:00.002-05:00

Tula Belle
Weight: 19 lbs 14 oz
They have released us from the need for weight checks as recommended at her 15 month check up!
Height: 29 inches
As I thought, she shrunk 2 inches from her 15 month height! Mama was right about the inaccurate measurement!
****
I finally was able to catch this little mover for some new pictures! She is nearly impossible to photograph any more because they always turn out blurry as she is dancing, waving, clapping, or simply running away.

Tula's favorite go to spot is the bathroom. She loves to stand on this little stool, look in the mirror, and brush her teeth! Climbing on things helps our vertically challenged girl to see things a little differently :)

Look how big she is getting! She is starting to have knack for playing~ but her attention span is just about 5 minutes so in an hours time our play area looks like a bomb went off!
* Cooks in the kitchen- 5 minutes
* Color Wonder markers- 5 minutes
* Little farm animals- 5 minutes
* Lots of books off the shelf- 8 minutes
* Little play house- 5 minutes (YAY no mess!)
* Feeds baby doll- 5 minutes
* Runs with baby stroller- 1 minute..... icing the new goose egg from hitting a wall- 4 minutes!!
* Dancing diva- 5 minutes
* Tea party- 5 minutes
SHOOOOO.... Mommy is tired!

Tula does love books! (The only thing that she will do for more than 5 minutes!) I have been reading to her each evening and FINALLY she enjoys being read to instead of trying to eat the books. She loves peek a boo books the best! And she always finishes and goes back to her favorite page to read again once it is over.

Peek- a- boo!! Tula's blankie and paci are her very best friends!

Night-night! Our busy little girl will go get her blankie and paci and lay down anywhere when she is ready for a nap or bed time!

Tula still requires A LOT of sleep! Just a little down time for Mommy to rest a moment to have enough energy to move, move, move when she is up to play again!

The REAL Snow

2012-01-15T19:22:00.004-05:00

On Saturday night a REAL snow came and fell on our little town of Nicholasville. And Sunday morning it brought us....

A little SNOW angel :)

Maybe it was that her plea to get outside and burn some energy with Daddy was answered.

Or perhaps it was that they made a very GREEN snowman complete with only natural decorations.... very DaddySmors of them!

None the less, MamaSmors was so HAPPY to take our little Snow Angel to see Beauty and the Beast!

(And we went out on a limb and watched it in 3D..... but Ivy prefers "1D" of course! Because if 2D is flat she would like it to be VERY VERY flat so 1D it is!)

a parenting storm

2012-01-13T19:57:00.004-05:00

Tula was excited about the dusting and I was thankful to be able to cuddle this little one all day!

Today was a snow day- and no matter what, I will always treasure these days as a teacher! A little gift to be at home with my girls being lazy and enjoying each other. This year we haven't had any snow days yet and we have all been more than ready for a big snow storm. Today school was called off but there was hardly a major snow storm, but at home unfortunately, we had quite a storm.

It was one of those days, those afternoons, where nothing was giving and Ivy and I were not able to meet in the middle- at all. The morning was great. We had a yummy breakfast together and then played in the "play kitchen" having birthday parties for EVERYONE over and over again. Then Tula went down for a morning nap and Ivy and I had game time. We played Caribou Island and Zingo for a little while. Then it was nearing lunch time- Tula was up and we all ate together and played some more with the usual post lunch dance party! Then we played another game called Hullabaloo (great snow day game because you hop, skip, and dance all over the place) and Tula is even starting to copy what Ivy and I are doing. All was grand!

Then it was the dreaded afternoon- something hit my 4 year old like a ton of bricks. I am not sure what it was or where it came from. But she all of a sudden was being very unkind to Tula and after several reminders I told her it was time for her to lay down for a rest (before the usual time). During rest time she screamed and cried but eventually calmed down. I never raised my voice and she didn't get a spanking- just a consequence to fit the crime. You can't be nice, you go to your room for an early nap.

You see I am in one of those parenting lulls where something has to change. Ivy is far too mature for a time out or a spanking- it is time for a consequence to fit the crime. I am making an effort to be slow to react to Ivy and think through an appropriate punishment. One that she understands and sees the connection between her action and her consequence. I was proud of myself and was sure to thank God for patience even as Ivy kicked and screamed in her room. All the while, Tula was an excellent distraction and we were able to read books and stack toys and push trains all around the house.

Once I laid Tula down I had time to breathe and just pray for me to continue to parent Ivy in a godly way. I prayed that whatever came over her would pass and we could enjoy our evening together. In the meantime, we were invited to go see Beauty and the Beast with a friend. I called and talked to Greg about it and after talking decided that I would offer Ivy grace, just as Christ does for me over and over and over, so I was excited to tell her about the movie after nap.

At around 3:45 I went into her room and found a still wide awake Ivy. I quietly asked her if she would like to go and see Beauty and the Beast- and she was quick to say yes and then followed that with the middle school attitude that she too often uses said, "and I didn't even take a nap!" I took a deep breath and let it go. Then I was telling her to go ahead and get up to get ready for the movie and the ranting about her clothes began.

I closed my eyes- tried to make it go away- but the realization is that Ivy often acts like the worst kind of 7th grader when it comes to her independence in dressing herself. I was disappointed in her, questioning myself, and so annoyed that once again (right after Christmas) she is whining about clothes and shoes and what goes and what is old and what is new. Geeze louise- I gave her a firm answer about it being too cold for ballet flats and then the screaming began about how mad I make her and I knew what I needed to do.

I have never taken away anything BIG. I mean, I have most definitely used birthday parties, play dates, and super fun outings for bribery and threatening but never have I taken it away. But I knew that she was in no kind of mood to go anywhere in public. In fact, I really just wanted to put her in pajamas, tuck her in, and hope the morning came soon and the old Ivy was back. So I did it, I canceled with our friends and told Ivy that we would not be going to the movies. A consequence to fit the crime.

It was hard- like make mommy cry- kind of hard. I felt bad, I felt embarrassed, and I felt sad that we weren't able to create this memory together. After an hour of SCREAMING and acting totally belligerent, Ivy calmed down and we were able to talk. She apologized and I can only hope that she "got it." I think I heard about 100 "I love you's" in the next few hours, she begged to sit by me at dinner, and she was a perfect baking buddy this evening. Ivy redeemed herself and I hope that she could see my love is unconditional. Even though I don't love the way she acted, I still love her and am hopeful for better times.

I love being a mom. It is hands down the best job I have ever been given. But it is not easy and if my 4 year old is acting like a middle schooler, I can't even imagine what middle school will really be like! I just know I can never give up. I have to know myself, know my limits, and know my non-negotiables. I have to be consistent and have to learn from my mistakes. I have to be flexible and have to hang on to those awesome moments- like the Ivy on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday who earned a ton of quarters (her positive rewards) because she was a great big sister, daughter, helper, and friend. I have to be quick to forgive and offer grace just like my heavenly Father does for me. I have to bake cookies if she requests to do so, even if just hours before she was not the child that would ever get to bake with mommy.

So if I could do it over, would I still want a snow day- absolutely!

Only next time I am hoping for a true snow storm rather than one of the parenting kind!

Ivy was genuinely happy this evening, over it all, and moving on. (If that is not a lesson she has taught me then I don't know what is!) She was ready to bake some oatmeal chocolate chip cookies for her Pops!

Little Girls Feeling Big

2012-01-09T19:46:00.002-05:00

Ivy is growing up too fast and rather than trying to hang on so tight that she suffocates I am trying to embrace it when I can. No, I will not cave in a let her wear lipstick or high heels like she would love. And Ivy does not get to drink coffee like she requests every Saturday morning. Last, she goes to "little kid" church even though she really likes to sing in "big church". So not everything goes. I want her to be little, 4 and a half to be exact, for a little longer! But some of her new "Am I big enough for.....?" are starting to make me excited about her future and what is to come. Last month she had a big girl first!

Ivy and Elyse used to "nap" a Kristy's and make some big plans.... plans that included play dates, pool dates, church dates, and sleepovers. Us mommies barely knew one another so these were big plans for the then 3 year olds. A few months later, the girls turned 4, the mommies become pool buddies and then teaching buddies, and some of these big plans actually were carried out :) We had been holding off on the last one but Christmas break seemed like the time was right! Ivy and Elyse are both nearing 4 and a half and the sleepover requests were flying on our end. "Am I big enough to have a friend sleep at my house and have a sleepover party?"

Well, the mommies decided it was a go and these little girls had a blast! So our first sleepover was a total success with pizza, movie night (Beauty and the Beast was the feature), swimming in the tub, and staying up WAY too late! I would have loved to be a fly on the wall as they laughed and giggled and knowing them made some more big plans.

These little girls definitely felt big when they woke up in the morning knowing they had pulled off their first ever sleepover!

All was smooth until about 10am.... when both grouchy girls needed a nap! :)
I see many more sleepovers in our future!

a gift

2012-01-03T19:56:00.003-05:00

Over New Year's weekend.... and I mean Thursday until Sunday, we were treated to one last Christmas gift. Anthony and Chelsea were able to come and spend 4 straight days here- with us, with my parents. When all of us are in a room it just feels good, really feels like the most spectacular gift ever. It feels absolutely, positively complete.... minus a few more babies! We don't usually get to spend this many days with them (except at the beach)- they are busy, we are busy and the distance between here and Cincinnati makes it hard to spend more than a day together. So you can imagine the light on Ivy's face when I got to explain for 3 nights- "It's okay to go to bed. Tomorrow we will see Unc and Esie again." You could just see Ivy breathing a huge sigh of relief. She seriously thinks they hung the moon.... and who knows maybe they did?!?!

Day after day, night after night we spent time eating and laughing and playing and just enjoying the gift of family- it was especially fun for the big girls to go get an awesome pedicure together on Friday! So fun! Tula adored her Unc and Esie from across the room, smiling from time to time but not leaving the comfort of familiar faces. Before long she will be tagging along with Ivy as the coolest Unc and Esie teach our kids all the cool dance moves :)

Ivy had fun living out her "hair dresser" dream and playing with Esie's pretty hair. Esie was such a good sport. Ivy twisted and pulled, brushed and pulled, styled and pulled on the most "beautifulest" hair ever. She had so much fun!

Unc tried to ensure that Ivy could sport his team's colors on Saturday... by winning Ivy's heart with a "girly UK shirt" on Ivy's request. She was excited to match her Unc and give him a high five since his team (and her team too) won! Tula was warming up to Unc a bit- but not enough to get a real picture of them. Ivy will have to keep telling Tula stories about them to convince her to jump on the Unc and Esie train!

This New Years weekend was truly one last gift...
relaxation...
family...
sunshine...
family...
laughter...
family...
oh and the girls totally smoked the boys in Taboo...
Truly a gift that will leave us memories that last throughout the year!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T15:31:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe that 2011 has come to a close but it really has. At the end of the year I always like to reflect on the year that has just flown by. I wish I could say the year of 2011 has been full of lazy days laying in a backyard hammock.... but I can't .... for one, Greg just got this little gift for Christmas and for two, we have a busy life! Busy would be the word to describe the year of 2011-

Busy balancing two full time working parents and two full time silly girls!
Busy with grad school and pre-school and a big LA license test for the hubs.
Busy with birthdays and vacations- perfection!
Busy with sick children and at times, brokenness.
Busy with holidays and family traditions.
Busy with dinners with friends.
Busy creating memories and taking care of each other through it all!

Thankful to be busy with the people I love the most and hoping for a relaxing 2012.
Next year I promise to relax more, and be busy less by....

*spending more quiet moments with my husband of almost 7 years (just 8 more days).
*finishing grad school (in May)
*enjoying the small things that create memories for my family- art projects, cooking together, game playing, movie nights, playing make believe, taking walks, backyard camp outs, and more
*continue to memorize scripture with Ivy and teach her about Jesus' love (still learning myself)
*take life one. day. at. a. time.

Here's to a new year with more lazy nap times in this hammock with the greatest husband ever!

Wordless Wednesday- Babies and Dress Up and Christmas, OH MY!

2011-12-28T14:56:00.008-05:00

How about a toy, sweet girl?

2011-12-23T11:15:00.003-05:00

Tula is a girl on the move. She runs from one end of the house to the other and doesn't slow down long enough to play. She climbs on anything "climbable" and she is really into balancing on things not meant be balanced on. She runs, rolls, spins, and flops onto any big pile of fluff. But toys.... she does not really do toys.

If Tula stops long enough to "play" it is not with toys. She likes to unload the drawers, unpack the pantry, and undecorate the Christmas tree. She likes to stack containers, throw lids, and hide ornaments. But she doesn't do toys.

Ivy is trying to teach her to play- with toys, that is. Mommy and Daddy are working hard to show her how to pretend- with toys, that is. Our house is like a little girl section of a toy store... seriously! And we want our girl to "sit nicely and play- with toys" isn't that what girls do??!! It is definitely how Ivy played.... but Tula is not Ivy, she is Tula and we have heard more than once that she is "our baby boy!" And our baby boy, Tula Belle, does not sit and play, she runs and destructs and gives Mama lots of mini-heart attacks every day.

So it brings us to Christmas time- and although we are rejoicing that Tula really "wants" nothing, that is part of the fun! So we tried to find some FUN, NEW, ACTIVE Tula toys. We are really wanting to get her sold on this "sit nicely and play" thing but we will have to see. We will see if the gifts that Nana Claus and Santa Claus bring are good enough for our girl~ I have my doubts, but I am going to remain hopeful!!

Christmas Fun

2011-12-21T11:04:00.003-05:00

There are so many memories created in the month of December for our family. I feel like it is a very busy month but so much of the busy-ness is FUN so I am not complaining! It is a time of year full of traditions (new and old) and full of time spent with friends and extended family. Here are just a few of the things my girls have been enjoying this month!

A Gingerbread birthday party to celebrate Ivy's friend, Addy's, 4th birthday! Definitely a perk of being a Christmas Eve baby~ what a fabulous party idea :)

Rob the elf!! This tradition has been more fun than ever this year :) This is the first year that Ivy gets up looking for Rob's new spot. Rob has had many adventures this year thanks to some great internet ideas! He has made snow angels, been caught swinging from the ceiling fan, made a mess with toilet paper, paper towels, and kleenexes, and delivered marshmallows (dubbed "snowman poop") to our girls! Tula has been in on the action too- even saying "BOB!!" when she sees the elf and then cackling with the funniest Tula laugh. The magic of this season is so fun!

Making Christmas cookies with friends! This year Ivy and Abby were excited to be part of the baking process from beginning to end.... they mixed the ingredients, rolled the dough, picked their own cookie cutters, spread the icing and decorated until they were content! They had a great time being little chefs and enjoying a bite from time to time :)

Tula woke up from her nap just in time to join in and decorate and then devour a Christmas tree in minutes :)

Ivy was invited to attend a "Santa Claus" party and it was so fun! She acted so big amongst the "big kids." She made two ornaments, sang Christmas songs, and then listened to the guest of honor read the Christmas story from the Bible and then Twas the Night Before Christmas. Then it was another chat with Saint Nick for Ivy... the second of the season!

She was sure to ask the man in red for a bigger kitchen for her and Tula to share.... the current kitchen is too small for two "cookers!"

Overall, this month has been a blast and ending it with a two week long vacation just adds to my happiness! I love this time of year! :)

Redshirting- My Own Little Debate

2011-12-14T20:58:00.008-05:00

To plain red shirt her or not.... a teacher versus a mommy.

From the moment I heard Ivy's due date - August 3rd (she arrived a bit early) I had plans. I had plans to red shirt her for kindergarten. Without a doubt in my mind, I was not going to send her to school until she was 6. Have I totally lost you.... if you are wondering what is red shirting? Find out here.

I am a teacher and as a teacher this is something that I am PASSIONATE about. School is different than it was when we were little. Kindergarten is no longer a year to sing the Letter People songs, eat a snack of graham crackers and juice, do some pretend play, and go home at lunch to take a nap. Kindergarten has expectations of leaving reading and by the end of first grade you need to be reading proficiently. There is a lot of pressure put on children to start writing, memorize math facts, do homework, and sit nicely for nearly 7 hours a day, 5 days a week. Not to mention, the pressure kids have as they become middle, high schoolers, and college students- and being older and more mature usually puts them at an advantage. In my life, as a teacher I have had my fair share of students who weren't ready in some way- academically or socially- and usually their birthday was the culprit.

I know, I know.... there are exceptions to everything and I have had other students who's birthdays were late who did fine. They had friends, they didn't struggle academically, and in fact without peaking at their birth date I would have never known. But those are not the kids who stick with me, I think of kids who cry when mom leaves them at the door, kids who's school anxiety is so extreme, kids who struggle to master letter sounds or remember the b's from their d's... and I just remember thinking if only they had another year. If only they could be a kid a little longer- what a gift! So that is what I wanted to offer Ivy- without a doubt- until about a month ago.

The Great Debate Read more about this huge educational issue at Parent's magazine!

copying words from a book- a favorite Ivy activity

I never had plans to red shirt Ivy due to anything academic. She has always loved to listen to books, learned to write and spell her name before she turned two, has a great attention span to sit and color or draw, and asks all the time "What does that say?" or "How do you spell _____?" I knew that she was curious and interested in learning but that wasn't my hangup. It was social. She had only been at an in home sitter until this year. We kept her in the nursery at church because she didn't stop crying until she was 3! She has had lots of play dates, birthday party adventures, or trips to story time at the library- but structured "school" was not introduced until this year. Which was all part of my plan- being a little kid for as long as possible!

So here was my plan- send her this year to preschool to Jessamine Montessori and let it be a "trial run" of sorts. Based on our history with things like the nursery I thought it might take a bit. She started a new school where she really didn't know anyone- the kids or the teachers. I expected tears, extreme behaviors (shy or wild), and plenty of time outs of knowing next year we will be totally ready for this! But then she has had NO issues. She loves school, she has learned a ton, and she has good little friends in her 3 to 5 year old class- they are all 5! The teachers knew my plans of keeping her there next year, so right before Thanksgiving they had a little chat with me about her "readiness." I blew it off and thought- I am the teacher and I know best, I am not sending her, NO MATTER what!

Then I started asking around and really looking at Ivy and her experiences. I talked to the children's leaders at church and some of my teacher friends who share this age passion but also know Ivy and know Ivy well. I had a real "parent teacher conference" with Ivy's teacher. I watched her with younger kids and older kids. I took her to events where she had to be a big girl and sit and listen. More than anything I had to look at Ivy and her (at times) BIG personality and the fact that this year she has already had 5 days a week ALL DAY preschool. Ivy has no where else to go that I can afford or that works for a family with two working parents and no way to transport to half day kindergarten programs. Her only next step is kindergarten. And my mommy gut started kicking in.

Friends, I lost sleep. A lot of sleep. And God has had to hear about this a bit too much!

Being a mom and having PLANS is hard. Kids rock those plans, being a working mom can rock those plans, finances can rock those plans, and sometimes we have to be willing to change. But it has been tough. I don't like changing my mind. I am a lady on a mission and a change of plans makes me sick to my stomach. This is an issue that I had to realize I had to separate my mommy beliefs of my teacher beliefs. If tomorrow the date to start kindergarten changed to "you have to be 5 by July 1st" would I be mad- NO! I would jump for joy, because in my teacher heart, I think that would be way better for kids. But this hasn't changed and I don't know that there is even any talk of this in Kentucky.

So for now I have to go with the facts and the current laws. I have to go with the experiences Ivy has had and the limitations I face for next year. I have to go into this prayerfully and trying to see God's big picture with presenting us with this new mindset for Ivy. I have to embrace my child's demeanor and put in her a place where she can continue to grow rather than regress.

But at this point, unless we start to see things differently, my big girl will be a kindergartner next year. And that, my friends, is where the real heart break lies.... I was not ready for that. I was certain that I had another year before we would go to school. But for now, I feel like this is what is best for my girl!

Ivy's Take: She is excited!!

So here is our conversation:
Mommy: Ivy, we need you to help us with something. Daddy and I are really praying about you and deciding if you are going to go to kindergarten when you are 5 or when you are 6.
Ivy: You already said, when I'm 6. (Can you tell I share my planning with her?)
Mommy: Yes, but you are doing so great in preschool so we are just trying to decide what to do.
Ivy: Stay at my school. (Someone else doesn't like change.)
Mommy: So at your school, Mrs. Hendren, has different activities for the 3's, 4's, and 5's. So what kind of things do you see your friends doing that you aren't doing yet?
Ivy: Well, nothing. Now I can do all the 100's stuff so I can do everything. (Has recently mastered counting to 100 and is oh so proud!!)
LONG PAUSE..... And I see Ivy's funny face and just knowing she is about so show her wittiness.
Ivy: Well, I know! I guess they can teach me to count to a million!! (And now she is cracking up!)

And that helped us to make our decision.... as we shook our heads and prayed about our sweet girl. We hope that God will continue to guide us and give us peace about HIS big plans!

a LONG wait....

2011-12-10T12:43:00.003-05:00

Ivy is four and a half.... and apparently by four you want to be in charge of all things fashion related! We have to negotiate with all things fashion- shoes, clothes, socks, even panties. And we can't even start to talk about hair accessories- Ivy has big plans! For the most part with a little game of you pick, I pick Ivy is dressed in a mommy approved outfit and is ready for her day :)

But hair is harder for me to fight~ I love it short! It looks absolutely precious, it is easy (no tangles), and I know how to do short hair. But our girl, the planner she is, had other ideas. So this is the third time that she has expressed interest in long hair. She specifically says she wants to grow it out like Esie :) She adores her Aunt Chelsea! So, maybe the third time is a charm, and we have gone several months without a hair cut and we FINALLY have a pony tail!

NO CLIPS, NO ANYTHING, just one SINGLE pony! BIG STUFF!

She is so proud, but it is still not where she wants it. Every morning and every night she looks in the mirror and shouts, "It grew today!!!" It has most definitely grown, but it is still taking her a long time. I keep telling her that growing your hair has a long wait!

Lesson learned: Ivy and I are working together to "style" her newly long hair and the biggest lesson, a dose of patience for us both!

The most wonderful time of the year....

2011-12-04T17:25:00.004-05:00

I really love December!

I love Christmas songs...

Christmas trees...

Christmas decorations....

Christmas lights....

Christmas pajamas...

and

Christmas traditions!

I love that we celebrate the birth of our king in a BIG way!

I am thankful for the gifts of joy and hope that Jesus brings this season!

Merry Christmas!

15 Months.... So big!

2011-12-01T19:56:00.004-05:00

So it is that time again.... Tula went to the doctor for her 15 month check up!
Let's see how our little missy is growing :)

Tula Belle
15 months
Height: 30 inches (37%)..... which I believe is VERY inaccurate....
Weight: 19 lbs 2 oz (4%)

So Tula is still little.... really, really little! I don't think the nurse's length measurement was correct- not blaming her- Tula is a mover and very difficult to measure. But I don't believe she could grow a bit over 3 inches in 3 months and still be wearing all the same clothes. I think you can see 3 inches of growth on a 2 foot frame :) But anywho...

Other than her little bit of growth, lots has changed over the last 3 months! I feel like between 12 months and 18 months a whole new little person appears. They are learning and mimicking at a rapid pace and you never know what their next step is. So here is a little about Tula Belle at 15 months~

Pretending..... Tula is a girl after her Nana's heart and she learned to apply lipstick at a young age and she is good at it! She loves to get it out of her play purse and put it on, over and over and over again. Absolutely hilarious :)

Climbing.... I don't think this word can even describe our little monkey. Tula gives me a heart attack at least once a day because I am shocked to see what she is getting into. I know I have never had a boy of my own, but both my dr. and sitter said Tula is my boy! She is wild, running and climbing anything she can. Tula's first big climb was on her little rocking chair. She has been climbing to sit in it for several months but one day she had to go a little further. As I am putting laundry away I turn to find the chair turned with it's back against the crib and Tula standing on the 2nd rung looking into her bed!!!! Seriously? She is a dare devil!

Outdoors.... Tula loves being outside! She cries every day when we get out of the car and come into the house. (If the girl would wear a hat we could continue to play outside!) She especially loves chalk. The little artist carries a piece in each hand and motors around Ivy's art work. Every now and then she will crouch down and give a little chicken scratch on the driveway, and then she is off running to find another perfect spot for a masterpiece!

Food.... Tula loves FOOD! Her favorites are bananas and she eats one everyday! She stands at the counter by the fruit bowl and begs for "nan" over and over again. She eats all the table food that we eat and out eats her sister at every meal. With only 2 little bottom teeth, we have to cut things up pretty small but she does a good job getting it down! Tula finally weaned to strictly whole milk three weeks ago. Her belly seems to finally be able to tolerate it without problems. She loves milk and is not a fan of juice AT ALL. Tula also has just learned how to help blow on her food and that is what she is doing in the picture. If she takes a hot bite she will start blowing to let us know that it is a bit too hot for her little mouth!

Sick.... Sad but true- but Tula has learned how to be sick over the last few months. We have just about everything from fever viruses, to blisters on the throat, to throwing up, to ear infections, to the croup- if the germ has been around we have had it! A sick day for Tula means lots of sleep, lots of cuddles, and learning new sick behaviors. Tula has mastered a fake cough and pretending to blow her nose! I could eat her up :) Look at those pitiful pouty lips- precious!

Words... Tula is a girl of few words and in this house that is a blessing (for Daddy)! Ivy and I do plenty of talking! Haha :) But Tula has a few favorites:

* "Yeah" that was Tula's first word and still most common! She has been answering questions with a "yeah" or a head shake for about a while... and every time her answers make me laugh!
* "Da-da"- Daddy won this battle by a long shot- but to give Mama some points she called both of us "Da-da" :) In the picture she is pointing to our family picture and yelling "Da-da!"
* "Mum"- Yes, my 15 month old calls me Mum! And it is not okay, so I am totally encouraging the baby talk of Mama or Mommy.... however, for Tula, less is more and she is sticking to "Mum!"
* Tula speaks the occasional Chinese to some of her favorite friends- Jack the cat, her cow toys, Minnie Mouse, and Ivy!

We love our little Tula Belle :) Her adventurous spirit and tight hugs keep us going! I wish I could push pause but since I know it won't work, I will enjoy all her little changes and embrace each new stage as it comes. :)

Wordless Wednesday- Weeeeeeee!

2011-11-30T21:22:00.001-05:00

ivyisms.... they never stop

2011-11-27T20:19:00.002-05:00

Ivy and Jack the one guy who she ALWAYS loves.... despite a rotten mood!

Every now and then I have to stop and write these things down. Ivy is funny... and sometimes I mean silly funny and sometimes I mean bad funny. Lately, it has been that latter- so I try to discipline her and then I have to stuff my face in a pillow and laugh. So I am writing these 4 year old Ivyisms down because before I know it she will be more mature (haha-probably not) and these will be a thing of the past :)

After a long day of timeouts....
Greg: Ivy, I hate days like today. I hope that tomorrow the good Ivy is back and we can have so much fun.
Ivy: (With not even a smirk) I'm afraid the good Ivy is on vacation for a while.
Greg: Hmmmm, I hope she comes back soon.
Ivy: We'll see.....

After hearing Ivy talk very rude to Tula and some a friend....
Mommy: Ivy, I don't like the way I heard you talking. You had a mean tone and were being kind of bossy.
Ivy: Well, I learned to talk that way from you.
Mommy: (Eyes bulging, mouth opened, no words)
Ivy: Like you say, "Ivy, get on your shoes" (very calm and sing/songy) and then you say, "IVY! GET YOUR SHOES ON RIGHT NOW!"
Mommy: That is a way that mommies talk to their children when they don't listen. Not a way to talk to friends or Tula.
Ivy: Will I be your child when I am 10?
Mommy: Yes, mam. Even when you are 35.
Ivy: Does Nana still talk to you like that? (She was trying to catch mama in a lie!)
Mommy: Yes, when she needs to she does!

During a sinus infection....
Daddy: Ivy, let me help you blow your nose one last time. (at pre-school)
Ivy: You have got to be kidding! I am NOT blowing my nose a school!
Daddy: Why? That's silly!
Ivy: That's not silly, it's embarrassing!

After Ivy and Daddy jam session on the way to school....
Daddy gets Ivy out of the car still singing and NO one is in the parking lot around them.
Ivy: (Giving Daddy glaring eyes...) Stop, singing, we are at school and that is embarrassing!

Wanting to play with JUST Mommy....
Ivy: Can you put Tula away?
Mommy: What?
Ivy: Can you put Tula away in her bed for a while?
Mommy: Well, no, I am excited to play with you and Tula. This is what you do when you have 2 kids.
Ivy: That's why you don't need any more kids? OKAY?
(She has changed her mind on this subject many times.)

Shooooo..... they never stop! :) At least they are all things that have had enough time pass that we are all smiles around here now.

Compassionate Ivy giving kisses to Jack

Thanksgiving's Thankful Thursday

2011-11-24T10:40:00.007-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all! I am thankful every day of the year but today (or this whole month) is really a time that I really think about all I am thankful for. My family has had lots of dinner table conversations about thankfulness and my students have had many share squares and table talks about all we are thankful for. There has definitely been a theme of thanks all month long in my life!

I am thankful for....

God. Wow! Where would we be without God and the continuous grace and forgiveness that we are offered through His son every single day. I heard that a student of mine (this is a first for me) doesn't believe in God or Jesus. Absolutely heart breaking! So I have prayers that seeds will be planted in him this year. I have already eavesdropped on my missionary second graders hard at work and I know nothing is impossible through Him. Teaching is a calling that God put on my heart and while I can't minister to him directly, I can love him and I can answer questions honestly. I am excited to watch God work in this situation this year.

God was recently revealed to Greg and I through the book The Shack. Oh my, was this a healing read for my family. After reading this, I do have a different picture of God, as Papa, as a comforter and healer. As one that is far from legalistic but seriously wants us to trust him and let him fully love us. We are letting him do this. We are allowing him to work on people who have hurt us. We are trusting that we can forgive others and let him do the tough stuff. I am thankful for the words of William Young and biblical picture he painted through this story.
My husband. He is my rock and my soul mate. He is my partner... in the fun and the not so fun parts of life. He is also a father.... in the fun and the not so fun. He is the lunch packer and the bath giver. He is the grass mower and the weed picker. He is the man who teaches my girls to love all that nature has to offer. He is the calm in the storm. He is the reliever of my stress. He is my TV buddy. He is my tattoo guru. He is the one who lessens our footprint on this earth. He is the artist and the creator. He is the do-it-yourself-er. He is the subtle make you laugh til you cry commenter. He is the one who humbles me and praises me. He is my husband and my best friend. And for him.... I am so thankful.

My children. They are a joy every single day. I still pinch myself to think of my healthy girls and to know that I am entrusted to be their mama. I am thankful for the memories we create, the lessons they teach me, and the never ending laughter. While every age and stage has it's difficult times or tough conversations parenthood is still such a blessing. And that picture makes me more than ready for the summer and a wonderful family vacation.

Family. Having a family who is open and loving is something that we are thankful for every single day. My parents teach us so much- they are role models in the way they have raised us. They have shown us the importance of putting your marriage as a top priority. They have been married 31 years and that is impressive. And their marriage isn't old or stale, it has spark. They do fun things together, they laugh together, and they have supported one another through raising a family, dealing with loss, and stressful jobs. Such an example of true love. My parents also work hard to teach us God's love. They lead by example in the way they give to others. They are disciplined about many things in life but a relationship with Christ is something they never skimp on. I am thankful to be their daughter, I am thankful that my husband as become a second son to them, and I am thankful that my girls will always know they are loved by Nana and Pops.
My parents aren't all I am thankful for! My brother is amazing and I am thankful for him. If you would have asked me if I was thankful to have a brother when I was 8- it would have been questionable. (I wasn't very nice!) But by the time he reached high school he was someone I really looked up to and loved to talk with. He couldn't have chosen a more perfect bride. Chelsea is better than I could have hand picked, and we knew that almost instantly! I am thankful for their presence in our lives and the impressions that they make on my children. And I can't wait to be an aunt to their children someday :)

My home. My home is not perfect and it is usually not in tip top shape, but it is a home. If the walls could talk they would share our laughter and dance parties. They would tell of our moments of sadness and stress. They would paint a picture of my family. And that is what makes our house a home.

A home is where toys need to be strewn about and kids need to playing. It is a place for imaginations to grow and art work to be created. A home is where sisters become best friends and good character in our girls is formed.

A home is not about perfect floors and kitchen tables without sticky spots. A home is not about furniture so shiny you can see your reflection. A home is not about being able to lay on the floor without cat hair and graham cracker crumbs. A home is to be lived in, and a to create a happy family. And my home is definitely that!

My job, my students. I am a teacher and I am thankful for that. I am thankful for my students (this is sweet, hilarious, Turner- I know his mama won't mind that I stole her picture). I really work for my students and that is that. I do not work because I am passionate about change in education- even though somethings do need change. I work because I love those 25 faces that look to me Monday through Friday to be their consistent, nurturing, exciting teacher. And my classroom is like my home away from home.... and oh, if those walls could talk. They would tell stories just like the walls in my home.

They would tell stories of change in students- like this card- seriously unbelievable change in my 2nd graders. The walls would tell stories of on fire learning and blooming of new friendships. They would tell a tale of character building and tough conversations. The walls would tell about confidence, hard work, and pride. I love my job. I love who it makes me become at 7:55 when my kiddos walk through the doors and I love who it allows me to be when I walk out before it is dark outside, plenty of time to go home and be a wife and a mom. I love that God chose me to teach, and through a series of ups and downs he helped me to fully embrace that calling.

I have so much to be thankful for and this is just a snipet.... because let's be honest.... it is more like a novel! But I could go on and on and on. I hope that today you find yourself surrounded by love and thankful for the gifts in your life.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

A Jamfest of Children.... plus one

2011-11-18T20:28:00.006-05:00

There are some people that are more than friends.... they are really like family and the Amburgey's are that to us. Through the years, I hope Ivy and Tula will be able to see Rob and Cicely as an extra aunt and uncle and they can enjoy growing up with Rhett, Sidney Shea, and now Oaklee like some cousins get the opportunity to do. This is such a blessing that we can live so close, have so much fun, and be just like family. I am so thankful for this family like friendship, because who can turn down a little more family!! :)

This picture captures it all... they have so. much. fun. Seriously! Everybody had their instruments, Rhett was the leader counting off, and the jam fest began and went on and on! They danced and sang and marched and skipped. Greg and I would laugh and think... this is what it would be like with 4 kids under 4- shoooo- it made us tired just thinking about it! When I asked him, "So are you ready for 4 kids?" He was quick in answering, "Yep" and then added.... "for a few hours!" Haha!

At the next family jam, there will be 4 plus one! Sweet Oaklee made her arrival on November 10th and look how stinking cute she is :)

I think she is already ready to start shaking a maraca and being part of the next kid party!

Welcome, Baby Oaklee Jo into our family!!
We love you :)

Little Mommies

2011-11-06T20:10:00.004-05:00

In the last two months, Tula has been in serious training. Ivy has been purposeful about teaching her how to be a mommy. And as time passes, I am already seeing the shift from baby to friend. Before long Tula will be Ivy's favorite playmate! I can't wait until they can really play together and I get to hear them BOTH talk about cooking, dressing up, caring for babies, and going to tea parties. It will be freedom from the real world to step into their land of make-believe.... even it is just for a moment!

"Here Tula... every baby needs a bottle. Hold her like this... and silly girl, don't pour the bottle upside down!"

"This is how you change their clothes. And every mommy needs a well packed diaper bag with outfits, bottles, food- not like our mama who is totally unprepared with her purse and a stand-alone paci and usually one diaper and our mama never has wipes. Mommies must have wipes."

"Put your babies in their seats so they are safe while you cook for them. The kitchen can be dangerous for little babies like you, Tula Belle."

"Good job, Tula. Stand right there to feed your baby!"

And then my moment in the land of make believe is interrupted with screaming after Tula falls over with the high chair and is given her latest goose egg smack in the middle of her forehead. Who knew being a mommy was so dangerous?!?! Apparently, in the kitchen things get kind of scary- according to Ivy!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:04:00.006-04:00

I really was not much of a Halloween lover before having children. In fact, I would go so far to say that I really hated dressing up in all the grown up outfits (that all seem to be a little hookerish.... why is that??)! So nothing pleases me more than to make this special day all about the kids! And in our family.... it is.... and it is so much fun!

After the busiest week of my school year thus far- report cards done, 21 conferences completed, half day chaos, dress up day, and Family Fun Night Friday- I was so ready for a great weekend! So we kicked off the Halloween festivities by trick or treating with two little princesses at one of the girl's dorms at Asbury.

Belle and Snow White loved it! They had a blast following the colored squares through Chocolate Mountain and all the other fun of this real life Kandyland. They thought they were big stuff, dancing with the college girls and modeling in front of the full length mirrors around every turn. They scored lots of yummy candy and were worn out by the end of it all.
Ivy is so thankful that Addy invited her along for this adventure~

Sunday night, Greg and I were excited to carve our big pumpkin for the real trick or treat night. We decided to pass on the silly jack-o-lantern face and go for the wine glass inspired, S monogram! Okay, I admit this was totally my idea and my super artistic husband ran with it! And does it look awesome or what??!!

And light off.... wow.... I love it!

So the pumpkin is carved and we are ready for the Smorstad/Amburgey annual trick or treat night! Good food and good company and lots of good laughter- needless to say, we had so much fun catching up with our friends. It is great to see how our baby brood keeps growing! Last year we made the jump from two to four kiddos along for the Halloween festivities and next year we will have five. I can't wait for Baby Amburgey to make it's debut in the next 10 days. :)

Look at Minnie Mouse, Mommy, and Baby Bump ready to go!

This was the only picture that famous Bull Rider, J.B. Mauney, wanted to pose in! (Rhett, I am so sorry if I didn't spell that right!) Snow White was quite impressed with her Cowboy and wanted to show him with a big smooch with her apple red lipstick. He was not to excited about the prospect of a kiss!! Ha :)

The "babies" and Greg ready for the wagon ride!

Rob was in charge of pushing the big kids in the stroller.... Where's Rhett??! He was not into pictures this year :) Bull Riders are really too cool for picture posing!

Our little Strawberry felt so big to go get some candy! As soon as she got a little treat in her bag, she pulled it right out so pleased with the prize. Thankfully she had no idea these goodies were edible and instead, was happy to just wave them around and show them off to those passing by!

Minnie Mouse was really too big to be classified as a "baby" in the wagon so she helped pull "Too-too" most of the night :) Greg and Sidney Shea are big buddies!

We had a great night filled with great memories. These are the moments I never want to forget as my kids get big. And I hope that we will always share Trick or Treat nights with Amburgey's, babies added, kids growing up, and when we are old (and our kids are gone- tear :*( -) we can pass out candy and remember the good '0le days!

And we vow to never drive a car and drop our kids off at the houses with the lights on.... seriously.... people do that!

Happy Halloween, my friends!

Pumpkin Paintings

2011-10-25T19:14:00.002-04:00

My bloggy and real life friend, Brooke, gave us such a fun idea for this fall and we ran with it! Painting pumpkins! Greg and I love to carve a pumpkin each year. However, this is usually a longer process, so Ivy is involved in the scooping and dumping but is less than thrilled to actually sit patiently while her Daddy carves every bit of his face perfectly. So for a little girl that LOVES crafts this was a perfect activity :) Thanks for the super idea, and I think we will make it a tradition for our family too!

The little artist in her work smock and loving the pink paint!

Tula says... Who needs a brush, when I can get my hands in this?? Maybe next year she will get to participate a little bit more :)

The finished products :) We are excited to carve the big one this weekend!
Did I mention that I LOVE FALL?!?!

The Rest of the Best (DISNEY- LAST PART)

2011-10-18T06:53:00.004-04:00

The Animal Kingdom's tree of life!

African Safari.... so cool!!

Face Painting :) Ivy was so proud of this!

Tula LOVED the Lion King show.... hands down her favorite part of the trip!

Chef Mickey's for a yummy breakfast and to meet all of these guys! :)

Meeting Minnie again at the Animal Kingdom~

An experience she can't stop talking about- The Real Rapunzel!

Winnie the Pooh and Tigger- You can see Tula is not thrilled to be so close to these guys!! She was more of a "wave from a distance" type of girl.

Daddy and Ivy rode the "Tea Pots" several times!

The Princess Dream (DISNEY- PART 2)

2011-10-15T19:32:00.003-04:00

Ivy and all the princesses!!! Tula even got some love from Princess Ariel :)

More than anything else about our Disney adventure Ivy couldn't wait to meet THE princesses.... the REAL princesses! So 180 days in advanced, our reservations were booked and we couldn't wait for this magical evening to take place. I must confess, we saved money in the hotel department so we could do this full princess experience and it was beyond worth it.

We began at the Bippity Boppity Boutique with Ivy's fairy god mother, Arin, who was sent to get her ready for dinner at the castle. We followed excellent advice and brought our own dress and shoes taking the $260 package down to $58 to get her hair, make up, and nails done. Ivy was very quiet during this experience. In fact, I later thought we could have passed up the boutique, and headed straight to the castle.... until Ivy told me that was one of her favorite memories! (Oops!) The fairy god mothers were over the top, with the princess hair, princess talk, fairy dust, making wishes, etc! I thought it was absolutely magical and so much fun to have a little girl. EVERYONE in all of Disney addressed Ivy and Tula as "Princess" and that was definitely the feeling Ivy got after leaving Bibbity Boppity !

Our Prince surprised his little Princess with these shoes.... perfect for the occasion!

Then we headed over to Cinderella's castle. We were greeted by Cinderella herself and it was so beautiful inside. Disney spent the big bucks here.... and so did we!! :) We were lead up a spiral stair case to our table and the princesses (Ivy, Tula, and Mommy) were given a wand and a wishing star and our prince (Daddy) was given a sword to protect us. Dinner was yummy.... by far the most exquisite Disney meal we had and during dinner the special guests arrived one by one! Princess Aurora, Princess Ariel, Princess Belle, and Princess Snow White all came in and visited with each table. Ivy was absolutely in awe! To see her face with each princess was worth every little penny.

A sleepy princess and Daddy waiting for the parade to begin!

All in all this night was our favorite Disney experience and definitely made one little girl's Princess Dream come true!

Leaving on a jet plane.... (DISNEY- PART 1)

2011-10-14T15:55:00.006-04:00

To the Disney World Monsoon!

I actually don't even know where to begin when recording all of our Disney memories.... so I will just start at the beginning and I promise it only gets better :)

So the flight was a concern- from the day we told Ivy we were going to fly on an airplane to go to Disney World she was not EXCITED- about the flying part that is! Over the last 7 months we have convinced her that the airplane would be great.... it was a super fast way to get to the princesses. So on Saturday morning we made the trek to Cincinnati to catch our direct flight to the magical paradise of Disney World.

The girls did AWESOME! That is the flight to be on for first timers.... there were so many kids that I didn't have a worry in the world and I think it actually made Ivy feel calm knowing that she wasn't the only one. Tula was a little monkey climbing between our seats but the sounds and looks of Miss Patty Cake on our little DVD player kept her entertained (and I am sure they made innocent bystanders want to scream)!! But hey, it worked.

And then we arrive to this....

The girls stood at the window and watched the rain pour and we contemplated what to do. We looked at the forecast for the next 5 days and they were calling for rain, rain, flooding, and more rain.... so we did it. We bit the bullet paid top dollar for rain ponchos since our luggage and rain gear hadn't arrived just yet. And we headed over to a very wet, but still very magical Magic Kingdom.

It was cold and my attitude was not good.... just being honest here. I stood under a covered area with Tula while Ivy and Daddy rode Dumbo (in the monsoon) over and over. On the bright side, there was no line in sight! I stood there and I prayed.... I prayed for the weather first. Which felt very small but I really needed Him to hear and answer big. And then I prayed for my attitude in case the rain was persistent. But God took that first prayer and wow he showed himself big time!

But not so fast.... we woke up Sunday morning.... pulled open the window shade and the rain was still falling. I had a smile (there is that 2nd prayer) and we got our rain gear (2 more rain jackets and 2 umbrellas) and headed back for a day at Magic Kingdom! We even stopped for a castle picture since the day before allowed for no pictures and friends, 2 minutes post picture the sky went from gray to bright blue and that was the last rain drop we had the entire trip! Oh and the memories we made- coming soon :)

Mommy the Protector

2011-10-05T20:01:00.002-04:00

Ivy and Tula talking through the glass door.... and what you don't see is the fit that follows because Tula doesn't understand why she can't go out too! This protector mommy knows that it just isn't safe for the grass eating, rock finding, sort of, kind of crawler/walker to go into the backyard without me :) But she just doesn't get it!

Being the protector of our children is hands down the most difficult job as a parent. Tula is getting to the age when I am constantly called to protect her from the dangers looming. As she toddles past sharp corners, onto tile floors, up tiny step stools, and towards the teensy "bites" she finds on the floor- my heart skips a beat 10 times over. As I remove her from one situation after another she flops back and cries not understanding that I am trying to keep her safe. I want to be able to plead with her that I just love her so much and am trying to avoid yet another purple goose egg on her pretty little face. But I know she won't understand.... and then I remember this is the time that being a protector is easy- the role is so clear- but as our children get older the boundaries get a little blurrier.

I think of Ivy.... only a little over 4.... at times my role as protector is still the "don't get physically hurt" type of protector but we are moving closer to protecting her from emotional dangers. That is hard, friends! These protector conversations often go past Ivy and straight to a discussion between DaddySmors and I. We talk about the way we have to scold her and teach her, while making sure to protect her spirit. And the way we still "help" her with her clothing choices while trying to protect her self confidence and creativity. I hear about her conversations with friends at school and the Mommy claws come out feeling the need to protect her from cliques and gossip as she grows older. We continue to want to protect Ivy physically but now also are fighting the battle to protect her from situations that we feel are a danger to our child- emotionally.

Then I think about the future (and my own past as a teenager). WOW! Being a protector to that age you work double time, protecting them both physically and emotionally every hour of every day. And at that age I still didn't understand my parent's good intentions to protect me. They were often accused of "ruining my life" or "not understanding what it's like!" Finally, as a mama myself I get it, my own parents loved me so much they wanted to protect me from the dangers looming around every corner. Now they have passed the torch and it is my turn to have the 24/7/365 job as protector for the next 18+ years. Shoooo.... I know it is going to be the most difficult Mommy job but I hope that one day Ivy and Tula will look at me and "get it!"

Cloth to Not..... A Sad Week

2011-10-01T22:03:00.003-04:00

Well, I have promised to be totally honest about the cloth diapering and have been.... from day 1! Cloth diapering an infant was great. Tula definitely gave us loads of poop diapers but they were nothing the diaper sprayer, a good washing, and drying in the sun couldn't bring back to perfection. We had better luck in all diapering areas when compared to use of disposables with Ivy- less leaks, less blow out explosion, less diaper rash, etc. Cloth diapering forced us to dress Tula a little differently than we did Ivy simply because the poofy booty was not so pretty in some certain little outfits. But for the most part cloth diapering year 1 was a MAJOR success. Such a success that I would tell anyone and everyone that they could most definitely do cloth diapers and in fact I would even go as far to convince them that they should!

However, the second year seems to have brought some really stinky problems (haha- literally)! So I am sharing our story and honestly hoping that some other cloth diapering mama may be able to rescue me from spending dollars on diapers and filling the landfills with such yuck. It all started in August. We ran out of Tiny Bubbles detergent and in a scramble had to order something different because all of the places I had ordered from were out of stock (insert-- Stupid Mommy! Always go to amazon before giving up!). So I ordered another CD detergent- Rockin' Green (which has stellar reviews)- but after the first wash the smell was HORRIBLE! The second Tula wet the diaper everyone in the area knew because of the stench coming from her lower half. So I washed all the diapers again, a little more detergent (figuring they weren't clean), and dried them in the sun only for the smell to be worse. This cycle was repeated a couple of times before I talked to my own personal Cloth Diaper Whisperer, Cameron.

So Cameron informed me that they had made the same Tiny Bubbles to Rockin' Green mistake. She contacted GroVia and they informed her the detergent and diapers weren't compatible, wash with blue dawn, switch back to Tiny Bubbles, wah-lah good as new. Not so at the Smorsfamily house. So I called GroVia and they are the NICEST people on the planet and gave me a few more suggestions- use more detergent, soak in bubbles, extra rinse, sun dry, sun dry, and one more sun dry- FAIL! I am still in the process of communicating with these friends in far away Montana and am really hoping their next suggestion will be a cure all. But I am not sold that it will fix the problem. With every wash the diapers are getting stinkier by the day. I was gagging when I changed her, I was gagging when I sprayed diapers, I was gagging when I washed them.... and I gagged when I went to Sam's Club and forked over $40, 17 cents a diaper, for 350 disposable diapers.

Sad as I am, it had to happen.... until the problem gets fixed. Or will it get fixed? The cloth diaper gurus all over the internet seem to believe that a set of cloth diapers should last through one child and that you should even be able to use them again on your next babe. I am not sure if that will be the case. Only time will tell, but as of now the cloth diapering mama has put a sudden halt on saving the planet and my cash flow to avoid the ultimate stink!

HELP WANTED!

"I had a good trip!" By: Ivy

2011-09-27T18:40:00.002-04:00

This weekend Ivy got to do something so special :) Unc and Esie invited her to come and stay the night with them in Cincinnati sans Mommy and Daddy. Ivy counted down this special trip for days and last Friday we met them half way and the fun began. To be able to spend this time with them was so special to her. She kept talking about "how much they must love her" the whole way to meet them. Seriously, she was over the moon that they would plan a little get away just with her!!

So needless to say, Esie was "hostess with the mostest," as usual, and showered Ivy with special meals- pizza for dinner, homemade milkshakes for dessert, donuts for breakfast, and even a "special" mac -n- cheese for lunch! :) Unc was the event planner with a trip to the museum and a grand story teller at bed time when they had no children's books.

So I decided to let Ivy be a "guest blogger" at Life Wrapped in Pink- so here are her words about her little trip with her only's!!!

"I tried to not let Unc kiss my cheek but he wants to because he loves me. I love him when he does he hand stands.... that's my favorite part."

"I am driving the bus to the princess' castle at the museum."

"Who is that boy shopping like a grocery store? Esie should've not taken his picture because he is not smiling. And also- does Unc probably go to the grocery? I think he is the shopper?!?"

"I have to iron clothes to wash them. Is that right? I don't know if you (Mommy) ever irons our clothes."

"Esie.... she loves me. Because she misses me when she hasn't seen me in a long long time. I love when Esie makes me a milkshake."

One final thought about Ivy's trip to Cincinnati from the traveler herself:
"My most favoritest part of the whole trip is handstands.... because I want to do handstands and I can't at my house!"

Insert Mommy-- Ivy is NOT very coordinated and her "handstands" have posed the threat of a broken neck!! Therefore, we have banned them and I am thankful that she can take such RISKS with her Unc :)

Now, this Auntie Smors is more than excited to have little trips with "Baby Unc and Esie's"...... seriously lets get that show on the road!! So blessed to have such a special bond with these guys and can't wait to have the same with their future (but not too future) kiddos :)

New Room Decor

2011-09-20T19:12:00.005-04:00

I have to say I wish this post was about new room decor for my bedroom... because it is becoming a need... but that will have to wait until Santa pays me a visit!! :)

For now I am talking about Tula and Ivy's bedrooms. I am not much of a decorator and how I wish I could say that my kiddos have gorgeous, over the top rooms, they certainly don't. Their rooms are cute and practical at best. They are kids and I am NOT spending the big bucks on their stuff. I want their bedding to be soft, comfy, and kid friendly. I want their wall decor to match and add a special something but not be too pricey. I know their rooms will evolve quite often and I don't want to spend money on items that may only last a couple of years. So here are two new little touches that work with our budget and add in just the right places :)

Art Display

Ivy's room~ the problem at hand: Our girl LOVES art! And she is proud of every little thing she colors, cuts, or glues. She even wants to save restaurant menus! Having a place to put all of her stuff on display is difficult. So wah-lah- with a clothes line as my inspiration Ivy has a space to display her things for as long as her little heart desires.

Materials
4 decorative knobs (Hobby Lobby): $8
Mounting anchors: $1
Twine: FREE (found at our house)
Clothespins (Dollar Tree): $1
TOTAL COST:$10

PURPOSE: This keeps my kitchen from looking like a day care and my child is super proud of her art work!!

Etsy Print Inspiration

Tula's room~ the problem at hand: Tula's bedding (which was also Ivy's nursery bedding) has a lot of coral. Coral is so pretty but oh so hard to match. I have yellow and green accents but have trouble finding much else to decorate. Until I found these precious prints on Etsy. They were perfect, but again the color was still a concern. I loved the birds and tree that would match our wall decal and the pick your own verse artwork was my favorite part of all! I showed Greg what I wanted to order as Tula's birthday present and he said he could use photoshop and make something identical. (Insert- thank you, husband for reducing the cost of this project by almost $50!)

Materials
Etsy inspiration: FREE
A photoshoppin' someone... in my case... husband: FREE
3 wooden white frames (8x10): $24
TOTAL COST: $24 (compared to $79)

Purpose: Fill a wall that I have been "thinking" on for over a year- sheesh! Happy 1st birthday, Tula- your nursery is now complete!

September Saturdays

2011-09-17T21:24:00.006-04:00

This is one of my favorite times of the year. The weekends are so precious because there are a million things that I want to do and experience while the weather is perfect. Tonight my heart is so full of joy that it might burst~ I just love family time and I am blessed beyond belief with an amazing husband (who is also Super Daddy) to our sweet baby girls! So why was this September Saturday so fabulous?? Well, with a little mishap in original weekend plans it opened our day/evening up to do things that we probably wouldn't have planned otherwise!

When Tula woke up from her nap we decided it was the perfect weather for a hike. We have been talking about doing this and so today we hopped in the car and headed to Shaker Town. We just went on a little trail that was about a mile total. Ivy picked flowers and buckeyes (note to self- bring a bucket next time) but she was sure to dodge any possible bug that may come her way! Tula rode in the carrier and was Mommy's little cuddle bug. She loved looking up in the tall, tall trees.

After a little while Ivy's legs got tired so we stopped to have a snack. The walking was good practice for our upcoming Disney trip and we decided we probably need to take a stroller for her 4 year old legs to get a rest from time to time! Greg and I had such a good time enjoying the beauty of everything around us. Kentucky really is gorgeous and at times I take that for granted because I have lived here forever! Our first hike was definitely a success and to Ivy's surprise- we did not see any "OCTOPUSSES!!" (I am not sure where she thought we were going but that was a major concern!!)

Then we came home to our backyard camp out! I fed and bathed a very sleepy Tula and put her to bed in the comfort of her crib. Then Mommy was able to join the camping fun.... monitor in tow! Ivy and Daddy set up a fire for us to roast hot dogs for dinner and then enjoy our favorite dessert- the JUMBO marshmallow smores. We gazed at the stars and watched airplanes fly by that were possibly going to Disney World. We laughed at all of Ivy's silliness and got to soak up lots of time with our big girl.

It was wonderful to get to spend some time with Ivy... especially having a sick and needy Tula for much of the week. She makes us laugh without a doubt and she is really growing up too quickly. Even though she didn't get to go camping with her friend (hopefully sometime soon!) it was great for Mommy to be able to take part in this adventure!

The best part of camping in the backyard is the nearby amenities! When bedtime came my two campers got to come inside to brush their teeth, take one last potty break, and put on some cozy pajamas. I just left my husband (Super Daddy) and my big girl cuddled in the backyard tent reading Where the Wild Things Are and another current Ivy favorite If You Give A Pig A Party!

Hopefully Ivy's eyes will shut soon and she will drift off to sleep under the stars in the arms of her Daddy and she will be thankful for the wonderful memories we made today.

Contentment at age 4

2011-09-14T11:30:00.009-04:00

Being content on a sunshiny day at the park.... and content with sharing an airplane ride with her sister!

Watch Ivy say her verse here on YouTube!

"Keep your lives free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have." Hebrews 13:5
We changed "money" to "things" to help Ivy apply it to her life.

We have continued to keep a Bible verse on Ivy's mirror for almost 2 years now. She memorizes most of them in a week or two and then we change it. She hears the verse when we take a bath, brush teeth, go potty, basically any of the 20 times that she is in that bathroom daily! But now that she is 4 years old, the verse we choose is so important. We are growing a girl after Jesus' heart. We are teaching her Biblical principals to start applying to her life right now and the verses we choose can tap into the daily grind of our 4 year old daughter.

When she memorizes the verse- and really understands the meaning- it is sweet music to my ears. More than anything else I want her to grow to become a Christ filled girl. I want her to have His love near and dear to her heart. And I want her daily decisions to be made with God's will for her life in the forefront of her mind. So this week's verse has been big time!

Since starting preschool Ivy is around 20 other kids EVERY day! They have different shoes, outfits, back packs, lunch boxes, and they have 4 year old conversations about their homes, toys, and vacations and Ivy developed a bad case of the "I wants." Totally normal for her age, but none the less, irritating to this hardworking Mommy and Daddy from the mouth of a little girl that doesn't lack for much. So I got out my gardening tools and planted a seed in Ivy- God's word poured (not just planted) in her heart. We read a devotion about coveting someone else's things, I gave examples from my grown up life, and told her heart wrenching stories of children who really were lacking. She then said, "When I say I wish I had..." or "I want ____ like so and so has..." that just means I like their stuff." Very telling from the mouth of our girl! So I backed up and gave her a lesson on giving compliments and that, coupled with God's word has seemed to nix the I wants completely.

Now I hear her giving genuine compliments- "She has a pretty lunch box!" "He got a new backpack with 4 pockets, mine has 3. That is cool!" "Maybe when we have more babies in our house we might need bunk beds like them."- music to my ears! I also hear her attitude of gratitude as she prays at night. Don't get me wrong- her "Thank Yous" are endless but I would take those over "I wants" any day. It is amazing that God's word can be so relevant, even in a preschooler's life, and this is such a reminder that it is never too young to start planting those seeds!

Lake Lovin' Ladies

2011-09-10T15:11:00.003-04:00

We are so blessed to have family (My Aunt Dee and Uncle Paul and their 4 beautiful/handsome children) who loved the lake so much that they decided to make it their 2nd residence. And we take complete advantage of this! :) Labor Day weekend we had some lake loving LITTLE ladies- and mommy and daddy enjoyed the get away just as much. It was so relaxing to get away- enjoy the last "really feels like summer" kind of weekend and spend lots of time with family.

Mommy and Tula saying "cheeeeeese" loving the boat ride!

Daddy, Ivy, and Harper about to take a tube ride :)

Ivy and Daddy on the fast boat with Captain Paul!

Tula and Pops enjoying the ride- the hummmmm of the boat put her right to sleep!

Daddy and his girls playing outside.

Pretty baby girl playing with her toys inside.... look at those Greg eyes!
Seriously is her Daddy's twin :)

Dee, Harper, and Ivy coloring together! Harper was the best play mate ever!

Having a little snack after a day on the lake- check out Tula's windy day hair- WOW!

Overall, we had a fabulous time and can't wait to have some good family fun at the lake house this winter.... we will have to way until May to be back on the water! So thankful for the memories we create with family :)

At 12 Months....

2011-09-02T13:27:00.003-04:00

Tula is into everything- including all the nooks at the doctor's office!!
But besides that.... lets take a look at what's new :)

Tula Belle
12 months

Weight: 17 lbs. 10 oz (6%)
Height: 27 inches (6%)

Playtime: Music! She loves to clap, dance, and listen to songs. Favorites: Happy and You Know it! and Wheels on the Bus! She knows all the buttons to push to make songs plan on her favorite toys. She also loves hugging baby dolls, her animal puzzle, and walking all the way down the kitchen scaling the cabinets, fridge, and walls. Outside she loves to swing and would be happy for hours on end going back and forth...back and forth... back and forth!

Food: She is eating lots of table food! Favorite food is definitely pizza and watermelon- 2 of my ultimate cravings when pregnant with her :) She also loves ice cream for a treat and cinnamon toast crunch or graham crackers for a snack.

Drink: A month ago I was concerned that giving up a bottle might be a disaster.... but with her new found busy-ness the weaning is happening just fine. She has a bottle at night time that she loves but other than that she is using a sippy cup. We have been transitioning to milk but were told today that her belly doesn't seem quite ready for it. We were told to mix formula and milk 50/50 for a couple more weeks and then move to 25/75 to see if she can handle it. Then I was told- some babies just aren't ready for cows milk for a while- the latest is usually 18 months!! GEEZ- let's hope not!

Sleep: Tula needs lots of zzzzzz's but she is pretty flexible in her requirements. Two naps a day- time and length vary. Early to bed- by 7 on the weekdays- and is a late sleeper when she can be 8! We are NOT complaining :)

Developments: She is not nearly as verbal as Ivy was at this age- but still seems pretty typical! I now know that Ivy's vocab at an early age was not the norm. Tula will say Mama, Dada, and Baba. She repeatedly makes the Na-na-na-na sound when Nana is in the room and often will make the P sound for Pops but never gives the full Pops!! :) She says "IIIIIIIIIII" for Ivy, which melts my heart! She waves bye-bye once you have left.... delayed reaction :) Tula recognizes several words that she doesn't say yet- cat, duck, baby, hugs, kisses, birdie, ball, etc! She crawls and crawls FAST - Ivy was not an efficient crawler so this is all new to us! She walks along furniture is a little to brave for my liking wanting to explore areas that are NOT safe.

The only way to keep her still was to take a look in the distorted mirror :)
Waving "HI!"

Happy 1st Birthday, Tula Belle!

2011-09-01T19:43:00.008-04:00

Dear Tula Belle,

I can't believe it has been a year. When I rocked you tonight, we snuggled longer than usual and I held you long after you were asleep, just thinking. I was thinking about a year ago this same evening- you were here, you were perfect, and you were so tiny. Everyone who had grown to love you while you were in my belly had come to visit you but once it became bed time it was just you and me.... spending quiet moments together.... just like tonight. How has it already been a year? In those 365 days you have blessed us a million times over. You personality has been such a gift. You are so pleasant and easy going- unless we mess with your food- and you are free to be flexible with a sometimes crazy schedule! You are so cuddly and I was afforded the gift of sleeping with you peacefully snuggled in my arms for the first 6 months of your life- and it was perfect. You were a breeze to transition into a bed and to wean from nursing to bottle and now are getting started on a cup. You giggle all the time and you fill others with joy when you scrunch up your face and squint your eyes to give the silliest smile ever. You really do have such a peaceful demeanor and we are so thankful for that! You adore your family and the feeling is definitely mutual. Ivy loves to help mommy take care of you, show you how to play with your toys (and you kindly let her!), and she always is ready to cover you with hugs and kisses after a day apart. You light up when your daddy walks into the room and cry if he doesn't give you enough attention before exiting. And mommy, well I am still pretty much your favorite and that warms my heart. You lean your head on me and it fits perfectly. You pat my back when we rock and I love the way you crawl all over me when going from one exploration to the next. We love you to the moon and back and are so thankful for the blessing of you! Happy 1st Birthday, Tula Belle, it doesn't seem possible that you are already one!!!
Love,
Mama

BIRTHDAY PICTURES THAT CAPTURE EVERYTHING THAT MAKES YOU, YOU!

Clapping and booty bouncing are your favorite dance moves!

You will be on the move before long.... you took off with your new toy!

Swinging is your favorite.... and swinging with a cowboy, that is even better!

Getting a push from a good friend~ Sidney Shea and "Tu-tu" love each other!

Posing with the big girls!

Snuggles with Daddy are always good :)

Great girl friends eating Tula's favorite treat- ICE CREAM!!
(And as you can see Tula was trying to finish off her cake-)

Tula loves her Pops and gives him a big Tula grin every time she sees him!

Tula loves music so a music set was a perfect birthday present from Nana and Pops!
I think Papaw was trying to capture everything on camera since Meemaw missed your first birthday party.

Tula loves to eat~ and eating cupcakes with her favorite girls, Nana and Ivy, on her real birthday tops it all!

Mommy showing you how to blow out your candle.... but since you are still Mama's baby you couldn't quite figure it out! Maybe next year :)

Happy 1st Birthday, Tula Belle!

It's my party.....

2011-08-30T20:34:00.002-04:00

And I can eat a WHOLE cake if I want to!

Just a teeny-weeny sneak peak into Tula's 1st birthday party!

And a little taste of the delicious icing just to see what this stuff is....

Yummmmmm..... I can't stop eating!

And it was oh so good! Just so you know, Mama, my real birthday is Thursday! I hope we can do this all over again!

Too Fast

2011-08-28T14:14:00.002-04:00

As this little one is about to turn one.... 5 more days.... I just have to say things are going too fast. Tula's first year has passed in the blink of an eye. It is hard to believe just a year ago I was preparing to welcome a new little bundle of joy and now we are busy getting ready to celebrate her big birthday!

When I see Ivy in the big sister role it makes my heart melt! Most days she relishes in the role- let me help you, can I show Tula how to play with this toy, I hope Tula has a good day- I sure do miss her- but some days it is hard to be big! Today I am reminding her of all the times we have crowded around with family and friends to celebrate her- but today is going to be a celebration for the little sister. I want Ivy to know-even in the midst of special days for Tula- that we love her, are proud of her, and are celebrating Tula the same way we have done (and always will do) for her!

You know you have a big kid when you go to snap a picture and this is the pose you get! Life is going too fast- and before I know it Tula will be standing right beside Ivy- hands on hips, head cocked to the side, and looking too big for her own good.

Even though I can't push pause I can slow down enough to enjoy these sweet girls each and every day! That is my commitment to my little princesses!

Silly Girls

2011-08-25T05:45:00.003-04:00

This has alone been Ivy's one reason not to want to go to pre-school.... she has missed her friends at Kristy's house. She has been with some of those kiddos since she was a little over a year and a half and you form a fast bond. Now, Elyse is different! She and Ivy were playmates for a year and Kristy kept telling me all year that they played SO good together. She talked about how their imaginary worlds were connected! And the talk didn't stop there- Ivy talked about Elyse all the time and coming from Elyse's mommy the talk was mutual. So going to pre-school- leaving her friends- especially Elyse, has been hard. Daddy was dropping Tula off first for convenience reasons and after one day of Ivy seeing her friends waving to her from the door she was done- she wanted to go to Kristy's and leave pre-school behind. Little does she know several of her friends will be (if they already haven't) starting pre-school and will not be at Kristy's either! Daddy changed his drop off routine (Go, Daddy!) and we planned a play date with Elyse and pre-school has been smooth sailing ever since!

So it was a giggle fest when we got Ivy and Elyse together and they even had mommy laughing- these girls were silly- and I am going to share some of my favorites :)

We picked Elyse up when we got Tula and here is where the conversations began!

Elyse: Where do you live, Ivy?
Ivy: Well, I live Entucky, Nicholasville 1-1-7 Lefty Loop
Elyse: Reeeeeaaally? I live in Kentucky, Nicholasville too!
Ivy: You do!?!?! Yay!!!

Talking about another little girl at the babysitters... I seriously don't know where they get these things!
Ivy: Let me tell you this. Have you heard that Sydney lives in the woods?
Elyse: No
Ivy: Well, she does. And let me tell you this.....
Elyse: Waiting in anticipation....
Ivy: A real tiger ate her dog!! (Mommy gasps in the front seat!)
Elyse: I'm glad I don't have a dog!

Elyse told some funny stories about Tula getting into everything at Kristy's and the response....
Ivy: (With a very serious look).... Elyse, are you babysitting my sister? Cause I have to go to school.
Elyse: (Equally as serious).... Yes, I sure am!

Girls doing what girls have always done best- going to the bathroom together! (Starts at a young age.)
I hear them cackling together, so I round the corner to tell Ivy to give Elyse some space and I hear...
Ivy: Leesee (know idea how to spell this nick-name)... you are nakee as a jay bird!!
Elyse: CRACKING UP!!! You are so silly, Ivy!

Rapunzel and Ariel White (which they called one another the WHOLE time!) had a great time playing together and prolonged leaving as long as they could. It was a good dose of friendship for Ivy and she was happy to go back to pre-school knowing she had a little friend fix with Elyse. They are already trying to plan their next play time!

My Preschool Girl

2011-08-14T14:14:00.002-04:00

Happy 1st Day of School to Ivy and Mommy!

I can't believe that I sent my girl to preschool this week... she is officially a "Preschool Girl." I told her that I couldn't believe I had a preschooler and she responded with, "Yea, I am a preschool girl!" Little misunderstanding- but we will go with it!

So onto my preschool girl- it is hard to believe! But that is the realization, when you are a mother, life passes too quickly. In January of this year I started checking out my preschool options for Ivy. I knew that Kristy's would have lots of littles and didn't want Ivy to play the "big sister" role all day and all night. I knew a routine and school environment would be great for her. Now, as I checked into my options I found that as a working mom and having working grandparents left me with very few options. Half day programs wouldn't work because we would have no way of transporting her to wrap around care, not to mention it would be crazy expensive and we couldn't afford to spend one more penny on child care. Then I was hoping to find something that gave you the option to do 2 or 3 full days a week. I found some programs in Lexington but that meant I wouldn't see my girl until Greg got home from work. No thank you! I need to see my child for more than an hour and half before bed time. So that pointed us to the full day, 5 day a week program right in Nicholasville- conveniently on the same street as Kristy's (Tula's sitter). I called and visited Jessamine Montessori and was pleased with all they had to offer us. The program is for 3 to 5 year olds and is a state certified preschool and kindergarten facility. I loved all the hands on activities, the larger than life playground, and the fact that the more I talked about it I heard about several other families that had good things to say about the school. Ivy will attend Jessamine Montessori for preschool and her first kindergarten year and I am excited for all my little girl will learn. This is the foundation of all the school years ahead of her and I want her to LOVE learning!

So her first day she was ready! I had butterflies but she was excited about the newness of it all. New friends, new shoes, new lunchbox, new teachers, new classroom, new "toys!" There were no tears, just a little shyness. Daddy held her hand tight, she gave him a big hug and she was off to start school. She reported all the fun things she did and was excited that she knew two friends already! She "just stared" at some new friends and was brave enough to talk with them the next day with a little pushing from Mama. She was sleepy and was in bed early every night this week but she has already told us that she is going to school every day unless it is closed! What is she most excited about this year? She is already counting down the days until her 100 Party on the 100th day of school! :)

I am thankful for restful weekends to catch up with my husband, love on my baby girls, and spend some time with extended family! But in just a few short hours, we will be early to bed and getting ready to start our school week all over again!

Look at that "Preschool Girl" so big standing by her backpack!!

Letters from a Mama

2011-08-09T17:32:00.004-04:00

Dear Ivy and Tula,
I am so lucky to have a job like teaching. I get to spend such long breaks with you at the most perfect times. Summer is by far the best time of year. There are memories made, lazy days spent together, and adventures that we could never take in the months between August and May. Some of my favorite days are the days we did nothing- pajamas until lunch, movies, crafts, and play, play, play! We had a great summer... but as the days start to dwindle I start praying for God to prepare my heart for the school year ahead. I pray for the students who will be counting on me and I pray that my mommy heart starts to find a way to be okay with leaving you girls for too many hours to count each day. God has a funny way to getting me ready but He always gets the job done!

Sweet Tula,
You are moving and moving non-stop! I am having to hover over top of you at all times to see what you might be getting into. You love your big sisters toys as you have had a good 11 months to eye them from a distance. We are keeping all her little trinkets just out of your reach. We are trying to keep you safe but since the moving began you have had a couple bumps, but you are still all smiles. With all of your new territory, we have found you pay extra attention to detail. You are drawn to the teensy fuzz balls, stray strings, and bits of grass that are in those hard to reach places. I am thankful that take time to study it before you try to pop it in your mouth.... I interject before the latest find becomes your afternoon snack :) In your moving adventure, you also have decided sleep needs to take a back seat. You want to walk around your crib for a while until you just conk out. The first night, you even fell asleep sitting up! Poor girl, you are wearing everyone (even yourself!!) out! We love you so much and are so excited to see you grow and change. But the time has come, Mommy is going back to work- it is time to chase down the big kids when they don't do their homework and let scanning the baseboards for baby hazards be left to the evenings and weekends!

Ivy Girl,
You are so big! As in 40.5 inches tall (65%- WOW) and 32 lbs (26%) kind of big!! 4 is so big :) You have grown up so much in just a matter of days. Being helpful at home, carrying on phone conversations like a middle schooler, and not even crying on your visit to the ENT- now that is big stuff. You are ready for Mommy to go back to work so your latest adventure can begin.... pre-school! I have butterflies this evening as I imagine you walking into your classroom tomorrow. I am so glad Daddy will be there to hold your hand. You are going to have such a great time and I hope that you are in full, every last detail kind of full, reporting mode tomorrow evening! I am sure you will have stories to tell. I can't imagine all the learning that will be going on inside your little head over the next several months. I am excited for you to share it with me. I have been praying for you and this big step- I know you will live up to your latest word and be a "Total Rockstar!" Where you heard that... I will never know?

Our summer is wrapping up, but let's not be sad! We had so many fun days and when we blink our eyes a few times- fall break will be here and you know we have big plans for you girls. Think magic, princesses, castles, and glitter.... and we will get there by jet plane! :)

Everything I do from August to May is for you and you! I love you both to the moon and back... twice!
~Mama

Summertime Days

2011-08-06T10:54:00.005-04:00

June and July ......

must be the best months!

I am responsible for a family of 4....

Not a class of 26.

Field trips taken,

Memories made.

Days without plans....

Playing our worries away!

More time....

For family and friends.

Sunshiney days at the pool....

But now it is time for back to

SCHOOL!

Cheers for all of the happy summertime days!

A "Family" Party

2011-08-02T16:13:00.007-04:00

Ivy had a super birthday celebration on Saturday.... with FAMILY.... now I emphasize family because for Ivy that was a sore subject! Now, go ahead, pick your jaw up of the ground, bite your tongue before calling her ungrateful, and remember that she is 4. And she had BIG plans for her birthday. Early in the summer she starting planning and she had a detailed description of what she wanted for her special day- it involved a big elaborate cake, lots of presents, renting party space, games, and LOTS of friends. So you can imagine her disappointment when I said, "Oh, Ivy, that does sound like fun- but this is your year for a family party. Maybe we can do some of those things when you turn 5 and it is your turn to have a friend party. Okay?"

Well okay it wasn't! She crossed her arms, stuck out her lip, and with a hmmmph said, "I don't want a family party!" And many times between June and her special day she made it quite clear that she felt shorted on these birthday plans. But I stuck to the plan- that Greg and I decided after Ivy's first birthday- every other year things would be a bit simpler.... and family party it was!

But with a family like hers, she was treated like royalty and had a fabulous FAMILY party day!
Everybody eating lunch at Ivy's request... Sir Pizza! She is quite loved :)

Opening one of many gifts.... she was so excited!

About to sing happy birthday and dive into Ivy's requested.... Mickey/Minnie strawberry cake.... I am certain it was even tastier than the big, elaborate (pricey) cake I was describing in her party plans!

Testing out her PINK balance bike

Interruption from Tula, "Excuse me.... hey, guys.... when is my birthday???"

Snow White baby doll from Unc and Esie :)

Riding her balance bike.... after changing into dress up clothes of course!

So excited about the playhouse to come.... just a sneak peek with the front door!

She was up and ready with the sun to play in the finished product the next morning!

Family party or not.... Ivy had a super 4th birthday bash!

Happy 4th birthday to my Ivy Girl!

2011-07-31T10:05:00.002-04:00

It is hard to believe that 4 years ago I was waiting, losing my patience, for my sweet girl to arrive. I couldn't wait to lay my eyes on her. I couldn't wait to put a face with the name I had been calling her for the longest time. I couldn't wait to wrap my arms around her and call myself "Mommy" for the first time ever.... a title I had been imagining since my own childhood. The day was here- it was Ivy's birthday!

Dear Ivy,
This 4 years has gone by so quickly and I still can't believe you have miraculously changed from the little baby with duck fuzz hair, to the very decisive toddler, into the girly princess who is now a big 4 year old! 4 seems so much bigger than 3. All of your baby traits are gone and you have become quite the little girl- or "wo-man" that you tend to call yourself.

We have big plans for your 4th year of life! You are going to start Montessori preschool in just 10 days. We went to visit and you were so excited to find your name on a hook to hang your backpack. You love to know what is going on BEFOREHAND so you can be prepared. So we went to your school to look around, we looked on line at pictures of your teachers and the different learning stations, and the first question you asked is "When I get to school, what do I do first?" The teacher grinned and was happy to tell you the routine of the morning! You will have so much fun at school. You love to learn and you love to play and I am already eager to hear the stories you will tell about your day!

At 4 we are also going to go on your first trip to Disney World! My are you excited! I can't wait to see your face as you take in the princesses and the castle. I am anxious to see you looking glamorous after your trip to the Bippity Boppity Boutique. This trip is all for you and we cannot wait to make these memories at such an impressionable time. The magic will be there!

You love hard, Ivy~ and I think this is a good thing! You love your friends, you love your life, you love your family, and you love "doing" but loving hard also means sometimes you are rocked to the core with disappointment. Oh, it breaks my heart to see you sad when things don't go as planned and I am already praying for your protection from heart break as you get older- I dread those days! But Mommy will be here and oh how I will understand. I will try to never downplay your very real feelings. Loving hard will be a good thing when you can be passionate about everything you do in life! I am so excited to see what God has in store for you, little princess!

Cheers to another year! We love you more today than yesterday!

Happy 4th birthday, Ivy Girl!
Love, Mommy & Daddy

For Ivy's 4th birthday I got some inspiration from a bloggy friend, Danielle, and the cute interview she conducted with her 4 year old Colin! Thank you for the wonderful idea and I think Ivy had more fun than I did!

Ivy is quite the talker- or dramatic talker, I should say. So these are HER words exactly, no prompting or probing to change any answers! Enjoy getting to know Ivy as a big 4 year old!

Mommy wants to ask you questions to put on my blog, so that all my blog friends can read about you as a 4 year old. So, we will start with the basics:
What time do you wake up? 8:00
What time do you go to bed? Let's see here, probably 11 o'clock
Where do you live? In Tucky, Nicholasville.... she went on to tell her whole address and phone number!
* Friends, only 1 of these first three answers is a true statement!!! We are starting off getting to know the REAL Ivy for sure! :) *
Favorite meal: Lunch
Hahaha.... okay, favorite food: Macaroni and cheese, spaghetti, and pizza
Favorite dessert: Strawberry cake
Favorite book: D.W.
Who is D.W.? She is Arthur's sister.... or brother.... is she a sister or brother?
Favorite movie: Rapunzel
Favorite way to play: Babydolls
Favorite princess: All of them, but mostly Ariel and Snow White
Favorite color: Pink and red and purple and turquoise and yellow and ......
Well, are there any colors that aren't your favorite? Orange. I don't like orange.
Favorite restaurant: Razoli's
What do you want to be when you grow up? A mommy- that's a good answer- right?
What will life be like as a 4 year old? Dressing up, high heels, and weddings!!!
*I didn't tell Ivy, but that sounds like life as a 20 something.... not a 4 year old!

Happy 4th Birthday, Ivy! Thank you for lots of "just right" answers!

Fence Friends

2011-07-28T16:27:00.003-04:00

We moved into our house two summers ago... when Ivy was just approaching her 2nd birthday. I had dreams of neighbors to chat with, playmates for my children, and late night hang outs in people's backyards (or on the curb if you are like my parents)! That is the way I grew up- we knew our neighbors and enjoyed their company. :)

On Lefty Loop, the little dead end on your right (humorous, I know!), that isn't what we found in neighbors. They are nice (very nice!) but they just aren't in our life stage. They don't have small children and they are checking the mail for retirement checks rather than children's magazines. You get the picture! So our first year here we loved on the oldies but we always noticed other tricycles and strollers on the surrounding streets but never got to actually meet any of these families.

Fast forward to last summer, Ivy often could hear another little person playing in the backyard right behind us. So she began talking to her through the crack of the fence- naming her "My Fence Friend." She would go straight to the fence to look for her and run and report everything that they talked about. It was last year when I realized that Ivy and Kennedy shared summer birthdays (she a year older) and they both love princesses! Then this spring when they ran to the fence to meet again the girls discovered that since their last conversations they both had become big sisters!

There friendship formed fast and they always were sure to stop their playing and chat with each other at the fence. Ivy would climb to the top of the swing set for Kennedy to show her things in her backyard. They were always ready to play but the time wasn't right.

Well, this summer that changed! Early in June, I met Kennedy's mommy and they came over one evening and the girls hit it off. They traded flip flops within minutes of meeting and their imaginations ran wild with princesses, tea parties, and our backyard became a castle! The play dates have been great and this weekend we are going to have our first cookout with Kennedy's family! Tula and Baby Grant will be fence friends before we know it! I am so excited to have "new to us" neighbors to make family memories with :)

The girls arranged an inside play date at the fence the other day! It has been great to have a little friend to keep Ivy company who lives so close. I hope we can keep things going once school starts! Yay for the blessing of good neighbors :)

Poor Jack

2011-07-25T15:39:00.002-04:00

Thankfully, Jack is pretty tolerant of all the little fingers constantly going after him! Tula cannot get enough of our little Kitty Boy. She squeals with delight every time he walks by and she throws a huge fit when he walks out of her reach. We are teaching her to have gentle hands and before long I am sure he will appreciate Tula's little pats the same way he loves when Ivy cuddles him.

On other Tula news, if she cannot stand up with your support she has no use for you! She wants to stand along the couch, chair, and everything that is the perfect pulling up size. She will maneuver herself right to your lap just so she can grab your hands and hoist herself to walking position. The girl has the want to move but is lacking a little bit of skill. Nonetheless, you can imagine her surprise when she rolled her way to the cat house and pulled up only to find her furry little friend!

Poor Jack, there is no rest for him.... Tula is on the chase!

Ice Cream Day

2011-07-17T14:48:00.001-04:00

Happy National Ice Cream Day!!

Enjoy ice cream with someone you love :)

Even Tula enjoyed (and LOVED) her first ice cream cone this summer!

Tula's Vacation Day

2011-07-14T10:32:00.004-04:00

Tula experienced vacation life in Seaside, Florida very differently this year! Last year, I could keep her with me every step of the way as she was growing each day inside my round belly. But this year she was here with us- experiencing more than just the blurred sounds and movements of vacation but actually taking in the sights and feelings around her. She was a great travel baby (no surprise to us!!) and because she is super flexible the vacation schedule had nothing on her. However, she was super excited to be back in her own bed on Saturday night... and she celebrated by sleeping until after 10 AM on Sunday morning! Here is a glimpse into a typical vacation day for our sweet Tula :)

Daddy showing her the ocean for the first time.... so big!

Tula was toted through town in the baby carrier. LOVE my ERGO carrier... if you are looking for something that will not hurt your back, is super duper easy to put the baby in and go, and will grow through the stages (Tula started at 1 week with the infant insert, now in regular front facing, and Ivy can be toted if she is riding piggy back style)!

Loving a ride with sister :)

Taking afternoon floats in the pool- look at that signature Tula smile!

Daddy taking her into the calm, clear water :)

Enjoying people watching on the lawn with Unc and Daddy.

Tula tends to be a camera hog with her BIG grin.... EVERY TIME!

Morning naps on the beach- more beach time for Mommy, Daddy, and Ivy!

Digging in the sand and having a bite from time to time~ ewww!

Chilling with a little drink to cool down!

Sometimes we caged our girl up in the beach wagon to keep her from eating the sand and seaweed!

Overall, Tula had a fabulous first time on vacation and she is on board with her big sister- they are both ready to move to the coast! We definitely have some beach babies :)

Ivy's Vacation Day

2011-07-12T15:49:00.005-04:00

Ivy LOVED vacation.... everything about it! Going back to the same place- same house, same week, same people- was fun for her. She could remember so much about our time last year so the car ride was a breeze- and if know Ivy that in itself deserves its own party! The whole way there we played "remember this...." and "remember when...." and we arrived to Hickory Street in Seaside, Florida ready to make new "remembers."

Here is Ivy's typical vacation day.... captured in photos!

Testing out the new sand toys on our first evening there.

Having a snack in her home-made beach chair :)

On our way to the early morning 4th of July parade- by the end she had two pairs of sunglasses, about 20 beaded necklaces, and a whole sack of candy!

Building in the sand with her HOTTY daddy!

Sand bathing diva :)

LOVING the ocean.... this was a huge change from last year!

Hop scotch in the sand.

Wave jumping!

~Little Miss Dancing Queen~

Jumping off the side of the pool- look at that splash!

Ivy definitely created so many more "remembers" this year. She is already excited to go back to the beach and asking if we will stay in the house with the pink windows.... can you tell she is a creature of habit??!! On the way home she was negotiating (I am in trouble, I know!) how we could stay at the beach- here was her plan since work and our house were two BIG reasons we had to come home-

A house.... no big deal!

Ivy: "Well, Mommy, we could just live in any of those houses that we walked past, like, everyday!"
Mommy: "Ivy, do you have a few million dollars?"
Ivy: "Well...... maybe. I can count!"

A job.... find one!

Ivy: "Don't kids go to school at the beach?"
Mommy: "Well, yeah, I guess they do."
Ivy: "Well, then you can teach them. And Daddy, I am sure you can find a job coloring somewhere at the beach."

For the record, Daddy is not a "colorer" but instead a landscape architect for an architecture firm. Ivy loves the pretty things he designs/colors! :)

Needless to say, Ivy is ready to be back on vacation... and Daddy and I are daydreaming about moving there!

Missing vacation....

2011-07-11T08:10:00.003-04:00

We have returned

from a fabulous vacation

with the most wonderful family.

Memories made....

Lots of laughter....

But now we are missing the beach!

A Baby Milestone

2011-06-30T16:24:00.003-04:00

Snoozing so peacefully....

Today Tula turns 10 months old. At 10 months she is still absolutely the happiest baby around! She can instantly put a smile on any groucher's face and she gives out giggles to calm a stressful situation at the perfect time. Tula is so sweet..... she really is :)

But 10 months marks an even bigger milestone for Mommy and Sweet Baby- Tula nursed for the last time this week. Now before you give a sad- "awwwww!"- hear me out, we were totally ready. Both of us- which has made this the easiest transition in the world. I have feared the day that I nursed for the last time for so many reasons:

I thought I would be sad.
I thought I would feel like I had given up.
I thought I would be bitter at those who could nurse longer.
I thought Tula would be sad.
I thought Tula would be confused.
I thought Tula would feel rejected.
I thought the days following would be rough.
I thought I would have to FORCE a bottle on Tula.
I thought Tula would continue to try to nurse.
I thought I would regret it.
I thought Tula would be fussy....and change.
I thought I would feel disconnected... and change.
I thought Tula and I would change.

Thankfully, everyone of my fears has been easily dismissed. None of them have happened- not even in the slightest. When my nursing journey was done with Ivy, it wasn't really done. I wasn't finished. I dealt with so much sadness. This time "done" means I am so proud of us. Tula and I were a team. We dedicated a lot of time and energy to nursing and making it work this time and boy, has it worked! Nursing Tula has been one of the single greatest Mommy experiences for me. It healed all the pain that I felt with Ivy, when our time was cut short.

Ending nursing means bottles- and Tula is already saying "ba-ba" and furiously nodding her head "YES!" when you show her a bottle. It seems absurd that she had many difficult bottle days with the babysitter over the school year. Now she is obviously at peace with giving up the boobs and moving onto the "ba-ba!"

I am thankful for this journey.

I was ready for the change.

I will be looking forward to nursing another sweet baby in our future (not too soon- please)!

Her feet are often crossed and they fit so perfectly into each other.... this was often the position of her toes in the womb.... I just know it!

Play Dough Fun

2011-06-30T07:00:00.003-04:00

Well, since this summer hasn't been filled with perfect pool days (like today- yay!!) I have had to become creative. What can we do at home.... fun, free, and using what we already have! When Tula is taking her morning nap I spend time doing something with Ivy- our special Mommy and me time- we play games, color, paint, do play dough, string bead necklaces, etc. But those things have all been used a few too many times. So we put together pipe cleaners, beads, and play dough to create these little creatures:

She was so proud :) Mommy was trying to stick to the easies... dogs, cats, pigs, etc. But Ivy was persistent that we need a giraffe- our favorite zoo animal! So the purple and yellow.... yep, it is our shot at a giraffe!

Here she is putting finishing touches on a baby jellyfish- :)

I am hoping since I posted this fun, easy, items you have on hand, kind-of craft for those rainy days.... they will be jinxed and we will have all sunshine from here on out! We deserve it!

Lessons with Friends

2011-06-24T14:44:00.004-04:00

I wasn't going to blog on this for a few reasons- a. this is my family blog and I don't usually post a lot about "me" and b. well, it's the Internet and it's public and you never know. But then as these feelings, hurts, memories have continued to stir over the last 24 hours I decided to write about it for a few more IMPORTANT reasons- a. it ties to how I want to parent and b. God is looking me in the face over and over and saying- WRITE IT and c. well, it's the Internet and it's public and you never know (is that a good thing?)....

So yesterday morning we had Ivy's friend Addy over to play. These girls have been friends since they were babies and we have been through the "terrible two's" with them but lately they have had a blast- canoeing, camping, dressing up, playing tag, you name it! But yesterday, my little darling was in quite a funk. I mean "woke up on the wrong side of the bed" kind of mood. She was snippy to Tula (gasp!) and Mommy (gasp!) when she first woke up so I was a little worried how Ivy would treat Addy. I concluded that Addy would "cheer her up" and the play date began. Well, needless to say, Ivy was less than kind.... and in 2 hours went to time out twice, got a spanking, and said SORRY to poor Addy more than once! It was over normal kid things but none the less I was embarrassed at how Ivy had acted. After lunch Ivy spent some time in her room "thinking about things"- like how Jesus wants us to treat our friends and how Addy might have felt after Ivy wasn't so kind. We had some BIG talks and I made sure that Ivy knew how important it was that she said sorry and how we need to think about how we treat our friends. We prayed together for Jesus to clean our hearts of "ugly" feelings, clean our mouths of "ugly" words, and for Addy to truly forgive the way we treated her.

Fast forward, to nap time.... I really was stewing about our morning together. I prayed about my mission statement as a parent. And more than anything else- more than being smart, being athletic, being pretty, etc.- I want my children to really love others. I was sad about how Ivy didn't show this today when she had a guest over to play. (Not to say she is always this way- usually she is pretty sweet to her friends, and yes, Addy's mommy assures me that she wants to come back!!) But for some reason, today really had me thinking about the "girl drama" that may really surface as my girls become teenagers. SCARY thought- huh??

This brought me back to my own life, growing up as a girl- a little drama in my life, most definitely! I wish I could look back and say otherwise but it just wouldn't be true. And as I was thinking back, I kept coming over one event and thinking- how did this happen? No apologies. Surely she knows to say she is sorry and surely her mom had these conversations that Ivy and I have been having.... even as a 20 year old if it was needed..... surely, right??

After 5 years of a very on again, off again, kind of drama-filled friendship, I got engaged. Guess who was on again? Yep, us. We were way "on." Lived together almost 2 years- if you count a dorm bed that we practically shared even though she didn't actually live in the dorms. Went shopping. Had lots of yummy meals. Took pictures. Laughed together. Watched a lot of TV!! Walked through anxiety. Cried together. We were together so much- Greg, her, and I- that we joked that we should send out "family" Christmas cards with the 3 of us. Then in the 11 months of my engagement, things became distant, and even with several efforts to make it "ok"- 4 days before my wedding in an "UGLY" conversation she told me that she was not going to be my maid of honor- and in fact, she wouldn't even be a guest at my wedding.

So it quickly went from bad to worse and wow, I was so sad and then I was so mad. And still I am so sad and so mad. Six and half years later, there is no closure- we have not spoken, written a letter, or barely even looked at each other. I have been in the same room on more than one occasion and oh, the wound is still there and it stings so bad. I pray about it- a lot. There has been times when it has almost consumed me- pray to LET it go. Pray for her. Pray to heal. It should be fine right?? I mean she didn't "ruin" my wedding- it was beautiful, I married the love of my life. I should be "over it." But it just hurts and as I think about raising a daughter through the trenches of girl drama this event is going to raise it's ugly head at me every time- and the devil- is going to hang it over me, convincing me to still harbor anger. But that is not who I want to be as a mama, a model to my girls.

Bringing us back to yesterday, last night I took Ivy took our church's "Off The Hook" production- for her, not me- one would think.... but God has bigger plans- the whole story was about forgiveness. It showed the parable of the rich ruler who forgave the debt of a slave but then the slave didn't forgive the small debt someone owed him. It reminded us all of God's forgiveness EVERY DAY.... and how He really cleans our slates.... just like Ivy and I prayed.... He wipes the "ugly" feelings from our hearts and takes away our mistakes. The last words of "Off the Hook" reminded us to really let people who have hurt us "off the hook"- to forgive them without anything in return. We are supposed to forgive, for real, for free, forever!

Wow- so who was that message for? I was stirring as I sat in my seat knowing that God put me there. Originally, Greg was going to take Ivy and we decided last minute it would be good for me to have some Mommy time with her. There was someone bigger who had that plan for my life.... that from 7pm to 8pm I was to be filled with God's love and His sometimes difficult truths to really let this go.

So here it is- so I can mark my words- and maybe, just maybe, she will stumble across this letter someday and know my heart.

Dear Dana,
My heart breaks as I relive the days prior to the best day of my life. I was hurt and still am hurt. And yes, when I hear your name it has been stinging for the past 6 and half years. And yes, I have sometimes snarled my nose or said unkind words about you. And yes, even when I thought I truly forgave you I realize that I was waiting.... for something.... from you. You were "on the hook" to me. Well, today, through 3 year old friendships and children's ministries, I can see the big picture- you are "off the hook." I am forgiving you, for real, for free, forever.... because that is the way that God loves me.
Through Him Alone,
Sarah

When you sign up to be a parent, you never realize how parts of you will be revealed that you don't ever want to face and that you will be changed (for the better) everyday!

The Help

2011-06-22T17:41:00.002-04:00

Lately, Ivy has been "the help" at our house.... when she is in control of her mood swings, that is! She loves helping and is now at the age when I can put her to good use. We have been cleaning out toy tubs, organizing art supplies, and of course helping to grow Baby Tula right up (tear, tear...). Her absolute favorite thing to do is to feed Tula. This is putting all her hard baby doll work into real life practice. And as you can see, Tula is thrilled to have Ivy feeding her some yummy sweet potatoes!

Coping

2011-06-20T15:57:00.004-04:00

My sweet, almost 4 year old, Ivy!

As summer has kicked off, I have noticed some struggle areas in Ivy's life. Just as I posted about our almost 3 year old behavior last June we are now almost 4.... and have new things to be working on! People talk about the terrible 2's, the trying 3's, and the freakin' (that is the nice word) 4's- and I would say every age has it's ups and downs and as parents we are constantly figuring out what is going to work with our child.

At 2- we worked on setting limits, giving warnings, praising, and the beginning of time out.

At 3- we have continued being very consistent, created SEVERAL positive behavior charts with specific goals, and have pin-pointed our "non-negotiables."

Now at almost 4- we feel it is important to teach Ivy some coping skills.

Gone are the days of simply scolding Ivy for her ugly behavior again and again. This has stopped working- in fact, I believe it may even fuel her fire. Now we are on to identifying (or trying to!) the cause or feeling behind it and then teaching Ivy how to cope with those feelings. As an adult- I get angry, mad, sad, tired, jealous, annoyed, etc. but you won't catch me stomping, screaming, and sobbing like the Rite Aid cameras, Nana and Pops, and innocent Tula caught Ivy doing this weekend! All separate occasions.... of course!

So here are some of the strategies that we are beginning to teach and really practice in our house- we are doing a lot of reminding and modeling and are already seeing Ivy do some of these things independently!

When you are feeling sad....
It is not always acceptable to cry (loudly) or whine incessantly so let's talk about it instead because often times someone else can help you. I want Ivy to say, "Mommy, I feel sad because I want to play longer." If I hear her say she feels sad, I don't want to argue or scold her but rather I am going to try to stop and take time to love on her and explain the why. I hope that this extra GOOD attention will ward off any tantrums and we will move on much quicker.

This morning I heard Ivy use this- "Mommy, I feel sad because I can't find my special markers and you are busy feeding Tula." I was so proud that she didn't begin stomping and screaming so I said, "Ivy, why don't you bring your coloring book to the table and sit with me until I am done?" Worked like a charm, she helped feed Tula some bites and waited for me to help her look for the markers when I was finished.... Go, Ivy!

When you are feeling mad....
It is NOT okay to stomp, scream, and kick like Ivy is known to do. Instead walk away... and let it be your choice. I told Ivy that sometimes Mommy walks away when I feel mad because if I stay around I might say something that is hurtful. I gave her examples of when I CHOOSE to walk away and told her that at home, at Nana's, and even at the pool or park she can always CHOOSE to walk safely away (over to our chairs at the pool or to a bench at the park). When you walk away it gives you time to calm down before you talk about it. And it keeps you out of trouble when you can use nice words or nice behaviors EVEN when you are mad.

Before Ivy used the "I feel sad when I can't find my markers...." she used this technique. She had looked in the basket and two drawers and she was getting mad that she couldn't find them. She put the coloring book down and chose to go to her room. I didn't follow her or interrupt but in less than a minute she was able to collect her thoughts and come and communicate that she was sad because I was busy when she needed my help. Go, Ivy!

When you are feeling angry....
It is not okay to hurt someone else. But I am teaching her to take deep breaths and count to 10! It has been fun to model this with her today. :) Right now I think that she thinks this is silly but I hope in time I will see her use this. I have modeled that in just a few breaths and counting to 1o I get GOOD energy to push through what ever is making me angry.... finding a shirt that fits just right or having to pick up 100 cheerios off the floor! I see her little eyes watching and taking it all in and I hope that she thinks about coping with her anger like this next time.

We are starting small with just a few skills but hope that it makes her feel in control- which is what she wants more than anything! I know that some rough spots are just part of growing up but I hope to provide her with some tools that can last a lifetime. And for the mean time if Ivy can cope with her feelings it may provide some peace in our home. :)

What coping skills do you think are important for little ones to learn?

Tula's 9 Month Check

2011-06-14T15:26:00.003-04:00

Tula Belle

9 1/2 months :)

Height: 26 3/4 inches (18%)

Weight: 16 lb 5 oz (8%)

Today was Tula's 9 month check up! She is a little bitty thing :) Growing, but still so tiny! Our little Tula is seriously the happiest baby in the world- she smiles all the time. And when she smiles her whole face smiles.... nose scrunches, eyes squint, gums are at full exposure! Here are some updates about our little one!

Sleep

* Sleeps 12+ hours a night!

* Likes to "sleep in" but usually have to wake her to get our day going

* Takes 2 naps a day- still super flexible on these :)

* Sleeps in her crib EVERY night and loves her mobile, light up sea horse, blankie, and several pacis at her reach

* We LOVE our video monitor so that we can play, play, play while keeping a watch on our sleeping baby!

Play

* Tula loves anything BRIGHT- especially looking into a sea of bright toys in her basket!

* She bounces and claps to music

* She loves the Elmo doll but we have only attempted to watch it once... not so interested

* Tula has a calm about her when she is outside- she loves the pool, going on walks (the newest craze is the wagon), swinging in the baby swing, and trying to eat grass!

* Favorite games- patty cake and peek a boo

* Ivy is still her best friend- but she lights up when she sees other babies too

* She rolls to get where she is going and attempts to get in crawling position but quickly face plants.... still smiling!

Eating

This is where the biggest changes are taking place!

What's the same:

* Eating baby food with the introduction of cheerios and fresh fruit in her baby net!

* She still loves the taste of everything as long as you catch her on the right day- every now and then she will spit something out all day but the next day acts like it is chocolate!

* We will start introducing more mushy table food and hope to see some improvement with the use of the sippy cup (she's great as long as you hold it like a bottle for her)!

What's new:

Tula was making a human pacifier of me with the start of summer! I believe she was looking at me thinking- "Hey, the boobs!! They are here all day! :)" And she was making the best of it! However, this is not what I ever intended nursing to be and this summer was supposed to be a time to begin weaning not to become more attached. So.... we have introduced two bottles a day (lunch and dinner) and she is still nursing morning and night. The bottles began as part breast milk part formula and now (after our fridge bit the dust) they are full formula. She is doing great and still happy as a clam! I plan to continue to nurse morning and night for as long as my body allows. Right now I am still full but I figure my supply will drop only nursing every 12 to 13 hours.... if you know what to expect I would love to hear your input?!?

Tula is doing wonderful taking a bottle from me and this makes me SO happy! I love how her little fingers wrap around it and she takes it out and coos at it and drinks some more.

Happy 9 months to our tiny growing girl!

We love you, Tula Belle~

The Girl Wants Curls

2011-06-10T19:50:00.002-04:00

And it begins..... the same old story (of EVERY girl on the planet) has started at our house. Little girls notice everything and Ivy has began noticing different hair types. She recently started saying how "adorable" Kylie's little curled pigtails are... and how she likes how Addy's hair curls in the back.... and oh my, Fancy Nancy has REALLY REALLY fancy curls on her head. Then it began- "Mommy, I want Chris to cut my hair curly!" Now, Chris is our wonderful hair dresser/miracle worker but he will not be cutting Ivy's hair curly! :)

So my first approach was to praise her beauty!

"Ivy, you have such pretty hair! It isn't curly but it has such pretty natural highlights in it.... some people pay for hair like that!"

"Ivy, you look beautiful today and your hair is so soft!"

She still was asking how she could get "her hair cut curly."

So my next approach was to point out the obvious!

"Ivy, honey, we are just the straight hair family. Look at Mommy's hair and Nana's hair and Esie's hair and Shea's hair and Josie's hair and Harper's hair...." and on and on I could go naming all the people in our family who clearly have straight hair!

And Ivy's response.... "I still want my hair cut curly next time!"

And then, I remembered the modern day miracle worker of sponge rollers!

This was an easy way to "cut her hair curly" .... with no cutting, no heating, no sitting super still for too long!

She anticipating morning- looking forward to finding herself with all those "adorable little curls!"

The results- She LOVED the curls! She looked in the mirror and said, "Oh... My....Goodness, Mommy! I look like a whole, new girl..... like a princess!" And it was obvious that is how she felt! The curls fell somewhat as the day went on, becoming soft waves, but overall the sponge rollers were a hit. Some nights she decides that she wants curls the next day and other nights she says that she would like straight!

My last approach to this mini-beauty crisis.... the best of both worlds!

I have convinced Ivy that being able to have straight or curly hair means that she is a lucky girl who can do both... so part of our new nightly routine is making the decision about hair!
Wow- the drama at our house! Yes, I have a 3 year old.... going on 16!

Some things....

2011-06-06T16:13:00.002-04:00

Some things will never get old....

like dressing my pretty little girls in matching outfits!

The River Train!

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

To celebrate a long Memorial weekend, we did a family first, Ivy, Daddy, and I took out the big red canoe! Ivy was so excited for Mommy to come along for the ride. She was so funny, trying to give me all the ins and outs of canoeing on the KY river. When we finally got the boat in the water, paddle in my hands, and the captain with his "steering" paddle- we were ready! And Ivy says, "Mommy, are you ready for the river train?" I assumed Greg made that cheesy line up, but it was an Ivy original! :)

Nana and Pops got some much needed Tula time. They got to play with her and take her out to lunch :) with no interruptions! She had fun with her Nana and Pops but was excited to see her Mama after a couple of hours away. Tula is so laid back and Nana and Pops are in shock every time they take Tula for a ride. She actually seems to enjoy riding in the car.....quite the opposite of her sister- since Ivy screamed like a banshee every time she was car seat bound for at least the first year of her life! Geez louise!

Greg and Ivy swam in the Dix River.... but they looked pretty crazy to me! The water was so cold that it took their breath away. So let me correct myself, they didn't swim they took a fast dip and got back in the sunshine! I dipped my toe and that is it! :)

We had a great time on our little family adventure! I am already looking forward to the time when Tula can come along for the ride :) but for now it is special for the 3 of us!

Christmas....All Over Again

2011-05-26T19:26:00.003-04:00

Dear Santa,

At our house, it's like Christmas.... All over again!

I've grown into this new toy and I am all smiles :)

Who knew it would take until May- but who cares.... Christmas is fun no matter what day!

Thank you Santa for my new toy! I absolutely, positively LOVE it!

Love, Tula Belle

Spring Recital

2011-05-22T19:51:00.008-04:00

This Saturday we had our Spring Recital. This time the kinder-dance class did a tap performance! Ivy has been so excited to wear her tap shoes, put on the pretty polka-dotted outfit, add her "recital face," and get on stage :)

I wish we could bottle up a little of her 3 year old confidence to spread out into the teenage years.... but let's just say she was feeling GREAT about herself on Saturday!

"I am going to be REALLY good!"
"I look so pretty in this outfit."
"Can you believe I am this pretty?..... Even prettier than you, Mommy~"

Those were just a few of her positive self image quotes!

After the show with the greatest Grandma's ever..... Nana and Meemaw!

Tula and Daddy..... she loved the show!

Go here to see Ivy Dance!

We will have to see where Miss Ivy's interests are in the fall to find out if we are going to dance again..... or try something else :)

Milk delivery... Maybe, Maybe Not

2011-05-21T10:05:00.004-04:00

On Monday, I was sad. I was praying for a fast and full delivery of milk!

Tula is 8 and a half months, and breast feeding has been (still is) an awesome journey. I have been so blessed to be able to start nursing right away with no complications like I had with Ivy. I have enjoyed every moment nursing and have been thankful for those quiet times with her. It has been a sacrifice- to be the only one up at night time feedings, to be the one sitting in a dusty utility closet twice a day at work, and to not be able to do things like fit into my old clothes, wear pretty bras, and run like I used to! But every bit has been worth it :)

I was sad on Monday because over the last few weeks I have watched my milk supply drop a bit. I think it is largely due to a bad cold (now sinus infection) that Tula has been plagued with, coupled with her dropping night time feedings (a blessing)! However, I have been concerned with the smaller amount that I am producing at work. On Monday, I was 3 oz. short which was not a problem since I have frozen milk but the problem was that I had NO new milk when I got home and it was time to feed my baby. With a heavy heart and tears from her, I prepared the first bottle I have ever fed her- but she took it wonderfully! For that, I was so thankful! She was flexible and let me feed her in this new way.

I talked to the lovely lactation ladies- who have been a great support- and they assured me that a drop in supply was fairly normal at this stage in nursing. They gave me some suggestions and encouragement- some that I will take and some that I will leave. In the end, this is my new plan- since you know I have a "plan" for everything!

I am mixing her bottles at the sitters half milk and half formula- which Tula is tolerating beautifully- thank you, Jesus, for being faithful again during this transition! I have dropped to pumping once at work so that I will be able to nurse Tula when I get home- since I would rather nurse than pump ANY day of the week. And I only have 8 and a half more days of the school year! Goodbye dusty closet- you will not be missed for my daily meetings with the "milk man"!

During the summer I will continue to listen to my body and Tula's responses as to when she needs more than I can make. I am now at total peace with this process. I think this may be an answer to an unspoken prayer- because I might have had trouble letting go of this time with Tula. I also know our little girl is about to have a mouthful of teeth- which frightens me, to be honest. And last, I think starting to do less nursing more bottle feeding will help Tula with the introduction to the sippy cup- which is a total fail at this point!

Overall, I am embracing my loose "plan" that could change tomorrow. Uncertainty is scary to me... but I know this is part of nursing. You don't know how much milk they get, what foods your eating that may upset their little tummies, and how your supply changes overtime. I am leaning into God as I have since being pregnant the second time around. Praying that I would be able to nurse her and boy, has He been faithful. I know either way I will be able to provide my girl with the nourishment she needs- bottle or boob- and in the end, that is all that matters!

Cheers to feeding your baby.... and that is that!

A Wonderful Trip

2011-05-13T19:13:00.002-04:00

When most think of a wonderful trip, we begin to think about sand and ocean water, a weekend at the lake, or visiting a city packed with history... but today Ivy had a wonderful trip but it wasn't of the vacation kind. Do you have a guess??

Ivy took her first field trip with Mommy's second graders.

It was a blast! First, she got to ride on a big school bus. This is what she was most excited about. She has been talking about riding a bus ever since she began sending off the buses and greeting them in the afternoon at her babysitters house. So this morning she was up before the sun and wanted to know how long until it was bus time! She sat beside the window and looked so tiny. She chatted ("chached") with some of my little girls and kept giving me a smile as if to say- I can't believe I am doing this?!?!
Then, we went to the Explorium, one of her favorite places to go! She had fun in the bubble room, sitting on the horse, and playing "nurse" with the sick babies. And I have to say, she was great! She fit right in with the big kids... except that they were quite a bit bigger than her! :)
Next stop, Shilito Park for a picnic lunch and some playground time. It was a great surprise to have Daddy meet us there since it was so close to his work. She swung on the big girl swings and had fun watching everyone else. I had quite a few little girls that took her under their wing and entertained Ivy a lot!
She spent the last hour at school with my Smarties in class silent reading and then listening to a read aloud. Ivy sat criss cross applesauce on the carpet with everyone else. She had a wonderful day and wonderful trip.... and she definitely came away with a few new friends!

This was one of those days that I counted my blessings that I am a teacher and I double counted them because I am at a school like Wilmore. It was so fun to enjoy this day playing Mommy and teacher all at once. I had all of my amazing parent volunteers (11 in all!) who helped chaperone and made it possible for me to bring Ivy along. I also had a principal who loved the fact that Ivy was coming along for the day! When she hired me she told me she was a family first boss.... and when Ivy was born she told me she always expects me to be mommy first and she has held true to that time and time again!

Today I was soaking it all in- my cup definitely was overflowing!

To Be A Mother

2011-05-09T19:56:00.003-04:00

To be a mother.....

To be a mother means you love unconditionally.

To be a mother means you get welcomed snuggles- morning, noon, and night.

To be a mother means you sacrifice daily- better yet, hourly.

To be a mother means having baby residue caked to your outfit.... and you leave it there!

To be a mother means you worry about every decision- no matter the size.

To be a mother means you are the planner, the organizer, the shopper, the feeder, the everything-er for your family.

To be a mother means you have a heart of gratitude.

To be a mother means you love so much it hurts.

To be a mother means you appreciate the little breaks into reality because sometimes you can only think of fairies, princesses, and babydolls! (unless you are a mama to the blue- and I know other things consume your mind!)

To be a mother means you are an example for little eyes all the time.

To be a mother means you have received a blessing that can never be taken for granted- not in the most sleep deprived night or in the midst of horrific temper tantrums.

To be a mother means you get homemade crafts from the most precious chubby little fingers the first Sunday in May that you will forever cherish.

To be a mother.... can't be put into words.

I hope everyone had an excellent Mother's Day!

And if you are a woman who isn't yet a mother but is waiting so patiently for God's perfect timing- you were in my prayers yesterday. I can't imagine your heartbreak. Your time is coming... continue to be strong and patient, what an excellent story you will have to share with your child someday!

Updates on the SmorsGirls

2011-05-02T19:14:00.005-04:00

I couldn't resist sharing this adorable picture of two little girls.... squeaky clean after bath time!

A Tula update- Tula successfully got her tubes last Thursday. The surgery went well but our girl hasn't been quite the same ever since. My mommy instinct believes the two situations are unrelated but regardless it isn't fun! I hope that today is the turning point- she has had NO fever since Friday evening, has eaten the best she has since last Wednesday, and she is overall smiley :) .... like above! We are hopeful that whatever little baby bug she has had is gone and our good sleeping girl should be back tonight. Otherwise this is what is new with Tula:
* She is eating all babyfood and loves it all!

*Her attention span to nurse is short- but her thighs tell me she is still getting plenty of milk.

*She is rolling and scooching her little booty up in the air when she is trying to reach a toy.

* Her favorite toys are the fish she plays with in the tub and she often carries one in her hand all day!

* She says "Da-da" and my favorite expression..."Blah-blah!" If only she knew the meanings :)

* She is starting to really enjoy books- not just eating them- but actually listening to the words and watching Mommy's face as I read.

An IVY update- Ivy is funny! Everyday she has something new up her sleeves and you never quite know what is coming next. Here are some of the latest:
* She knows how to snap and is quite proud of this accomplishment.

* She has learned some new words- like that "buff" means strong- ever since Nana referred to Pops as buff and Ivy responded with, "Yea, he's a buffalo!"

* She is loving all things arts and crafts.

* She is terrified of bugs again this year- these fears have now manifested into nightmares. We inspect the room for bugs (specifically, bees) and right now she is quick to fall back to sleep.

* She likes to "play church." The leaders of our church's pre-school program should know that Ivy is taking it ALL in. She sings, jumps, teaches lessons, and then ends it with saying a prayer- my favorite part.
"Okay, now kids, we are gonna say a pray-er so pete after me"
"Dear Jesus, ---- you need to say it, Mommy"
(She gives me NO wait time, she is ready for me to "pete" right away!)
"Thank you for our church and all the kids in this room. Thank you that you teached us so much."
"Amen."
Ivy may take after Unc and have some preacher genes in her blood!

Overall, the SmorsGirls are happy, growing, and very loved by Papa and MamaSmors!

Celebrate Easter

2011-04-26T19:24:00.006-04:00

Easter is such an exciting time.... and every year I am just in awe of the sacrifice that was made for me... and you and you and you! Ivy's memory verse right now is John 3:16, probably one of the most important things she will every memorize.

"For God so loved the world He gave His only son so whoever believed in Him will not die but live forever in heaven."

That is huge! Every time her little voice says that I am reminded- God gave his child, his ONLY child, for us. Parents, can you imagine? But then I remember that Jesus is our Father so he did it for us. All a little complex for a little one... but Ivy will be able to put the pieces together someday. Easter is a time to reflect on Jesus and His love for us and one day I know all that we are telling Ivy will become clearer.

But for now... here is Ivy's version of Easter.

Unc: Ivy, why do we celebrate Easter anyways?
Ivy: Well, Unc, Jesus wasn't in the stone anymore.
Unc: Yea, he wasn't in the tomb. He was gone.... where did he go?
(Ivy's voice is so excited.)
Ivy: You see Unc, Jesus, He rose on donkey into the heavens!
-----

So how did we celebrate this day???

We went to Nana and Pop's house for Easter baskets and egg dyeing for the big kids and the little ones too!

-----
The girls woke up to a special delivery... Easter baskets!

Puffs, sippy cups, and a pool towel.... oh my!

Crayons, and chocolates, and a pool towel... oh my!

WHO'S READY FOR SUMMER??? The Easter Bunny!
-------
We went to Louisville to enjoy lunch, egg hunts, and time with family!

Jones Family... just those with the Jones blood! The outsiders took pictures.... my mom perfectly described the outsiders as those who are married to the Jones'.... who can never be wrong, are always right, those poor outsiders!

Cooper and Ivy had so much fun- cousins who don't get to see each other nearly enough!

Silly goose after a egg hunt.... the rain actually held off :)

Pretty little girls ready for church!
------

We hope you had a wonderful Easter too!

Friends

2011-04-23T10:36:00.004-04:00

I appreciate good friends for my kiddos- and it's an added bonus when you love their parents just as much!

Ivy and Rhett always enjoy themselves and compromise between "girl" things and "boy" things. Even at the age of 3 they are quick to say- that's for girls or this is for boys! They play cowboys and cowgirls- Ivy wouldn't even know how to ride a horse (real or stick) if it wasn't for Rhett. And let's just say, Rhett is pretty awesome at feeding baby dolls and taking good care of them too. They make a good team now and I can only hope they will forever!

Even Sidney Shea and Tula are enjoying some bonding time! When Tula can move like Sidney Shea they will be quite the pair but for now their friendship is sort of a one way street :) Sidney Shea is the entertainer and Tula keeps a good watch on her moves and listens closely to what she is saying!

I am thankful for friends.... for both the mamas and the babies!

Ears... again!

2011-04-20T19:29:00.002-04:00

Dr. Ivy was examining Baby Tula and she also recommends some "teeny-tiny tubes" for her sister!

Tula is definitely our child. The poor girl has the same ear genetics that God blessed Greg and I with. Ivy was born and within months the ear infections hit. After 10 ear infections we FINALLY did tubes a few days shy of her 1st birthday. Tula is on the same track. The ear infections began mid-December and we just completed antibiotics for number 6. She has had less the two weeks off antibiotics between the ear infections. Once again.... poor girl! Dr. Hosinski told us it was time for the ENT so today we went to visit. I have to say. I was nervous and I had reservations. But like the Dr. said- this is the track she is on and her genes aren't going to change tomorrow! But sure enough after her exam, fluid test (FAIL) , and hearing test (PASS), Dr. Parell says tubes need to be done sooner rather than later. Our little patient will get tubes a week from tomorrow! We would greatly appreciate your prayers- good hands for the Dr., freedom from anxiety for Mommy and Daddy, and that Tula does well through surgery (all 7 minutes)!

Giggles, giggles

2011-04-11T19:06:00.005-04:00

Today was hard to get up and go back to work- but this video kept me going! We enjoyed every last minute of our spring break :) and it just makes us really really ready for summer. Last night right before baths and bed, Ivy and Tula were snuggling together and sharing sister humor! Hop on over to you tube and catch a listen of some super contagious giggles. Who knew the "p" sound could be so funny? I have watched it over and over.... I hope it melts your heart as much as it much as it does this Mommy's!

And I had to add a picture just for fun-- Ivy is (sort of ) giving up rights to the baby swing and sharing it with her sister from time to time! The Easter bunny still may have bring Tula her own :)

Date on the River

2011-04-10T20:35:00.002-04:00

Ready for a river adventure!

Not a date with my husband and I.... but instead, a long anticipated date between Daddy and Ivy. For Christmas, Greg's parents got him his most favorite-est present to date- his very own BRIGHT RED CANOE! Daddy is one who loves the outdoors and really has a passion for all things nature- camping, fishing, canoeing, hiking, etc. He feels that it is so important for him to be able to share this with his girl(s). So he has been building up this canoe trip since December. Ivy and him have walked around in life jackets, played "river" with the canoe parked in the back yard, paddled in the grass, fished into thin air. So when the spring weather arrived they were ready! Daddy surprised Ivy with her very own paddle and a new bucket to collect rocks and water in. This morning was the perfect last morning of spring break and a perfect day for an outing in the canoe. It was a date that Daddy and Ivy will not forget!

Co- captain Ivy!

Where-ium Aquarium

2011-04-08T16:22:00.004-04:00

I wanted Ivy excited about Spring Break.... so I kept telling her... "We are going to Cincinnati and then we are going to the Newport Aquarium." To which she first responded, "The A-where-ium? What's that?"
So once we updated her memory on the aquarium... she was ready! She has an amazing memory and remembered the penguin in the cart for the lame-o penguin parade that she watched at 18 months. This time we didn't arrive early and wait for the disappointing penguin parade but we did give Unc and Esie hugs and kisses goodbye and headed off to visit the fish on Monday morning!
And the A-where-ium Aquarium didn't disappoint!

Ivy also remembered a boy taking this blue frog last time.... as a 3 year old she waited in line much nicer this time and was ready to get her picture taken with a smile!

The Smorstad Girls!

Ivy has grown so much since last time.... see her picture here!

Tula's favorite were the fish tank tunnels and the bright jellyfish tanks.

Ivy's favorite were the little splashing sharks and the penguins!

The Blessing of Family

2011-04-06T08:59:00.003-04:00

We kicked our Spring Break off with a visit to Cincinnati to visit the highly adored, Unc and Esie. We had a great time hanging out with them and even got to enjoy our time playing in a riverfront park (maybe Sawyer's Park???). The weather was to die for and we all wished we were wearing short sleeves and flip flops! Who could have predicted that beautiful sunny day after last week it was in the 40's? Ivy played on two playgrounds and ran through grassy areas playing tag with Unc. Tula was just happy to be along for the ride! She loved the wind blowing in her wispy hair and was bounced with every step in the baby carrier. We all relaxed and took in the beauty of spring time.

A wind blown family portrait!

Playing on the playground with her very first pony tail :)

5 people that I love so dearly!

Love, love, love this picture!

This weekend we were thankful to be able to enjoy the true blessing of family. As we sat down and ate lunch I could just breathe such a sigh of relief that we have family to share our children with. Ivy and Tula will be able to learn so much from Unc and Esie. It is obvious every time we are around them that they love Jesus and that is what they want for EVERYONE... is to know Jesus. In ministry, that is what they give their whole life for but it is just as special to hear Unc have a "Jesus conversation" with my 3 year old! I am glad that Ivy and Tula will forever have people (other than Mommy and Daddy) that clearly want the same things that we want for them. We feel so blessed to have family in our lives!

Spring Break Style

2011-04-04T21:26:00.003-04:00

Hey people! I heard it's spring break and I am ready to show off the latest trends.... chubby arms and roly poly thighs :)..... all trimmed in polka dots of course! I only hope this weather agrees and the "spring" temps stick around for our spring break! We will see.....
Love yas, Tula

Disney Princesses Once Again

2011-03-31T19:50:00.004-04:00

One of the highlights of Ivy's two year old life was Disney Princesses On Ice. So we did wouldn't have missed it this year! This year Daddy got to stay home with Tula while Nana joined Ivy and I for the show. It was a totally different show this year and much more entertaining when we upgraded the seats and were just a few feet from the princesses themselves. We had a blast at this Disney experience and now are counting down the months until our Disney World trip in October!

One of my favorite parts.... so glad to see Unc made his debut this year! My sister in law affectionately says my brother looks like the Candlestick :) So Ivy immediately yelled, "There's Unc!" when this scene started!

Clapping along with the music.... in amazement by it all!

Nana and her Princess Ariel!

Ariel with Daddy, Tula, and Pops before leaving them to go- Next year we hope Tula will join us!

The Wonderful Spring

2011-03-22T06:28:00.006-04:00

Dear Wonderful Spring,
We have been missing you dearly and excited for your return. We knew you would bring the sunshine with you and for that, we are thankful. My family is so happy to be spending time in one of our favorite places.... outside! Please continue to bless us with your presence, you have been greatly missed over this LONG winter :)
Thanks,
A Mama who Needs to have Playtime

We have been loving some time on our back porch!

Little girls are enjoying drawing pictures with chalk all over the drive way.
(You may be asking, what is that that Ivy has drawn?? An orange tree.... duh!!! haha)

Spring is letting new little ones experience the fun times in a swing!

We are taking Sunday morning and weekday evening walks.... I LOVE my new stroller!

Nonetheless, we are so excited that the WONDERFUL spring is here and are just praying that old man winter is gone for good- well, at least until November!

Bites

2011-03-15T20:37:00.003-04:00

I love this picture of her chubby little cheeks and her sweet little hand on the tray!

Look who's taking her first bites and LOVING it! Tula has tried rice cereal, oatmeal cereal, and now apples... the addition of the apples has made her double the amount of food that she is actually eating twice a day. We will continue to add fruits and veggies! I am looking forward to all the "What is THIS??" looks that we will get with each new flavor :)

Srubba-Dub-Dub

2011-03-13T12:04:00.004-04:00

Two girlies in the tub!!!

Ivy has been waiting for this moment since Tula was still growing in my belly!
The time has come the sisters can take a bath together and they both are loving it :)

Loving like Christ

2011-03-10T20:51:00.004-05:00

Dear Ivy,
I love you for the endless lessons you are teaching me. God is working on both of us. He is shaping us and molding us. We need to be more like Him. Together we will strive for that. I love you, little girl. I wish I could love you the way God loves us both. I wish I was capable of that perfect love. I am sorry I fall short and I am thankful that Christ is your perfect parent.
Love, Mommy

Parenting a toddler is fun! It makes you laugh. It is full of surprises. And it is a blessing. But that is all the good stuff.... and parenting (in general) is not always good stuff. There are hard days too. With that said.....
Parenting a toddler can be tiring. It can be tough. It can be sad. It can be disappointing. Sometimes Ivy seems to be in a slump. She's had a string of bad days where nothing is quite right. She is one temper tantrum after another. We are constantly redirecting and motivating her to make the right choice. I feel like I could record myself "scolding" her in a voice I get rather sick of hearing on repeat. I lose my patience and I go to bed sad about her bad day, our bad day. And I always am saying- if she would just do what she is supposed to do. If she would just follow directions. If she would just obey.

And then it hit me.... that is what Jesus says to me EVERYDAY. I am His toddler. I fall short and He is patient and loves me endlessly. I lack self-control and He provides the perfect verse for encouragement. I get angry and He gives me the pang of conviction and then wraps me in His grace. I gossip and I am reminded about His warnings about how dangerous the tongue can be. I mess up and He blesses me and my family, again and again and again. I say I am sorry, I ask for forgiveness and He takes it all away. He loves me that much. He died for me. He sacrificed all of Him because I am His toddler.

This was my ah-ha moment. I want to love Ivy like that and I want to remember my own issues when I parent. I need to pray for Him to grant me more patience and to be slow to anger the same way He parents me. I need to make sure Ivy knows how deep my love runs for her the same way I can look back on so many songs and scriptures as a reminder of how much Christ loves me. I need to be gentle with my words as I teach her. I truly strive to parent my toddler the same way my Father parents me.

I am so thankful that parenting Ivy I am able to learn these lessons. I have never thought of myself as a toddler and the similarities between my dialogue with Ivy and His with me. Today I have had the perfect wake up call to really love my sweet girl like Christ loves me.

Happy 1/2 Birthday!

2011-03-06T12:54:00.006-05:00

Tula Belle @ 6 months
Height: 24 3/4 inches (17%)
Weight: 14 lbs (14%)

Why is Tula's life flying by? I can't believe she is already 1/2 way to big first birthday! On the 1st of this month our baby girl turned 6 months old. All day long Ivy sang Happy Birthday, Dear Tula Belle and I was thinking... it will be the real thing before we know it.

So what's new with our little missy?

Some things haven't changed.... like the fact that she loves to eat! She is still nursing wonderfully. (Pinch.... yep... it's real.) Nursing could not be better this time around. She eats every 4 hours during the day and then moves back to a 2 hour stretch between the last two feedings. She eats once in the middle of the night and is right back to sleep. She still is a little less than thrilled about the bottle but takes it okay. We moved her from taking 3 3oz bottles to 2 4 1/2 oz-ers and she is thankful for that! We plan to introduce cereal TODAY after getting the go-ahead at her 6 month check up and I am excited to see how that goes. I bought her some new little bowls and spoons just for the fun of it!

Tula loves her big sister! She is always looking around the room for her and gets so excited to stare at her and try to figure out what she is doing. Sometimes Ivy talks a little to loud *imagine that* for Tula's liking but she lets her know by sticking out that bottom lip and giving a big wail! Ivy was most excited to teach her about riding in the laundry basket now that she is sitting up so much better. Ivy also likes to tell Tula about the fun they will have when she can play babies and dress up together. Tula just stares as her with those big round eyes and takes it all in!

Tula is sitting up pretty good! I still like to be close by in case she tumps over :) She likes to bend all the way over to give the toy a little kiss but the best is when she bends in half to try to retrieve her paci. Where does our flexibility go?
This picture is perfect to showcase Tula's wild hair.... and yes, it stands up ALL the time just like her big sister's did until the day she turned one. So, it looks like we will enjoy another half a year of the little duck fuzz!

She is sleeping in her bed.... ALL NIGHT LONG! (Except on the weekends when I can't help but bring her in our room for some snuggling where she will sleep until 8 AM- if only Ivy would get the "we are sleeping in at the Smorstad house" memo.) She falls asleep in minutes and we are so thankful for that. She loves to read... or she would say eat... a couple of books before bed and Ivy was excited to snap a picture of that! She wakes up smiling in the morning and we couldn't ask for anything more.

Happy 6 months, Miss Tula Belle! We love you :)

Zzzzzzz.....

2011-03-02T20:31:00.002-05:00

So for Christmas, Tula asked for one of these little wonders:

Tula Belle sleeping ever so peacefully in her very own polka- dotty bed!
For your viewing pleasure from the MobiCam.

Then she got it and we stuck it in the closet. Who really needs a video monitor when your baby sleeps in your arms? But now with the NEW, heavenly changes taking place at the Smorstad house we have LOVED our video monitor and I don't think I could sleep a wink without it.

So why are we able to use our Christmas gift now that it is March... because my friends, Tula has been "Ferberized"- if you will :) I enjoyed the first two weeks of Tula's precious life having her sleep in the co-sleeper attached to my bed, the next month or so she slept comfortably on the Boppy pillow in my bed, and by month two and a half.... she had weaseled herself right into my arms. No complaints here! It was special. I enjoyed having her so close, conveniently nursing her during the night, being able to sooth her so easily. I wouldn't trade it, don't regret, and hypothetical Baby #3 may travel that same road as a new baby!

But Tula had gotten bigger and a little more restless. She didn't seem comfortable and had a difficult time falling asleep. She was snacking throughout the night- it was available so why not?? I heard horror stories of BIG kids still in their parents' beds (which was definitely NOT my intention). And I knew by her 6th month of life something had to change.

About two weeks ago we started trying to move Tula into her own bed. We would rock and rock and rock and feed and rock until her little eyes were sealed but within minutes (sometimes seconds) of laying her down her eyes were wide and she was getting some mega practice using those vocal chords! The "getting her to sleep" lasted until we were both ready for bed and then by about 1 AM Tula found herself right back in the same old nook somewhere between Mommy, Daddy, and a sea of chocolate brown sheets. But Sunday I had a funny feeling.... I knew I was ready. I knew I wasn't turning back. So that night I went for it.

After laying Tula down for bed I came and Googled "sleep habits for babies." And clicked here since I had heard of the Ferber method from some other Mommies. I read, I liked, and the 5 minute intervals seemed bearable. Night one and two were very similar- laid her down and she fussed, sometimes louder than others, but I went in without talking or picking her up at 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, and THEN 2 minutes into the next 15 minute period she was out. The best part was that she only woke once to eat and fell back to sleep on her own within 5 minutes. Night three was even better- laid her down and a new sort-of fussing, we call it "talking" started, but I visited her bed at 5 minutes and by the time the 10 minute interval came, Tula was sound asleep. She woke once to eat and fell back to sleep instantly.

It was obvious that in just three days Tula learned a new trick. A trick better than rolling over, blowing bubbles, or chewing on her toes.... Tula has learned to fall asleep on her own!

And tonight my friends.... NIGHT 4.... time to fall asleep: 1 minute (and that was 1 hour and 21 minutes ago)!

Babies grow so fast. I enjoyed the first 6 months with her right beside me... nose to nose! And now I am getting that nose to nose view with a few feet in between- me and the video monitor, of course. Cheers for sleep!

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Noah Obeyed

2011-02-21T17:05:00.002-05:00

Ivy is a sponge and I LOVE it! She is soaking in every little detail of every conversation.... so be careful what you say around little ears.... but oh, all the good things she is learning. At church they are talking about Noah and how wonderful the rewards were for him and his family because he obeyed God. She keeps saying he obeyed God and he didn't even think it would really rain! So when we changed her verse this week she was so invested and determined that it must be about God and Noah. Friends, go back and read- Noah and God take up several chapters in Genesis. Problem solved- we read it together and she chose her memory verse. She has been so invested in learning this week!

"Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds I will see it and remember the promise between God and all of Earth's living things."
Genesis 9:16

Crazy Love

2011-02-18T19:41:00.004-05:00

We had a pretty ordinary Valentine's Day in what feels like a crazy life! Not crazy like bad crazy but just busy crazy :) It always seems like we are on the go or preparing the kiddos to be on the go! During the week we don't ever catch up.... cooking, cleaning, washing, schooling, and we are sure to make some time for playing! Amidst our hectic schedule we still took the time to celebrate our crazy love :)

Look at this little Valentine- definitely hyped up with a sugar buzz from the cookies, chocolate, and candy hearts! She was riding her pony like a crazy woman decked out with her Valentine's outfit, sunglasses, and balloon!

Monday evening was pretty normal for Greg and I, but we were lucky enough to celebrate our love on Saturday. Ivy and Tula had a great time playing with Sidney Shea and Rhett while mommy and daddy got some time together. (We can't wait to keep their kiddos for them next month- we are trading children every other month to make sure to sneak in some dates!) Greg and I went to a little local cafe.... Main and Maple.... and LOVED it. It was so yummy and peaceful and we full got to enjoy time together. Before we left, Greg surprised me with such a pretty drawing he did for me and had framed. He is so artistic and I miss that part of him- with our crazy life he doesn't have a lot of time to draw but for this special occasion he did. The picture doesn't really do his work justice but he is really good!

It was a great Valentine's Day with the love of my life.... and our two mini loves!
Hope you had a special V-Day too!

Fickle Pickle

2011-02-12T09:59:00.003-05:00

Tula spending some quality time with her penguin paci (a gift from Ivy) and playing in her exersaucer!

Maybe you remember our paci situation upon Tula's arrival!!
It was a small battle.... Mommy didn't want Tula attached to the green hospital paci.... Tula didn't like any other kind.... Mommy gave in.... Tula wins the green paci.... End of Story! Bottom line, Mommy likes babies to have paci's so at the end of the day if Tula was calmed and soothed by the green, hospital paci then that was okay. However, green paci or any paci at all Tula didn't seem to love it the way Ivy loved her paci (here I go with my comparisons). But the paci would soothe her sometimes and that was maybe as good as it was going to get. Then at about 4 months- she no longer wanted the paci. What?!?!?! We would give it to her and she would act like she was gagging or not take it at all letting it roll and bounce across the floor. One day in a desperate attempt, I pulled a Nuk paci out of her dresser drawer and her eyes lit up and she sucked, sucked, and sucked some more. She was in love and soothed!! Tula might be a fickle pickle in choosing the right kind of paci but for quite some time she has been LOVING her little Nuk paci's to death! You will see Tula morning, noon, and night with a paci in her mouth and a twinkle in her eye and you just know she is smiling behind there! And this Mommy and Daddy (and sister, who has a true love for all things babies and paci's) are thankful that our little Pickle has found one that suits her just right!

Valentine's Snow

2011-02-10T16:31:00.003-05:00

As if we haven't had enough snow.... but honestly, I was hoping for this snow day. I like to call it our annual Valentine's Snow. Maybe you remember it last year... if gave me time to do too many little lady bug magnets with a two year old? I think it is God's way of giving precious moments of secret time to working moms. With this snow day, I was able to spend time with Ivy getting ready for her little Valentine's party at Kristy's. She already has her outfit picked out for the upcoming event and now each card is labeled so she is ready to go!

We decorated a Valentine's Box, looked through all 24 Olivia valentine's to find the perfect one for each of our friends, and even took time to make a "love fairy" wand with aluminum foil!

Ivy is VERY independent and likes to do it "her way". So it was absolutely unacceptable for me to even help her write her Valentine's.... wonder where she gets the stubbornness from? :) So this Mama had to ask God for patience many times over as she copied names onto cards with her "Valentime's Red" crayon for a whole 60 minutes!

Mommy Revelations

2011-02-05T10:00:00.008-05:00

Ivy Camille, 5 months

Tula Belle, 5 months

When I was asking about the personalities of his children, a father of 4 told me.... "You look at all the differences between your first two babies and then your mind begins to wonder.... Will a third baby be like Baby 1 or Baby 2? And then they arrive and are completely different in their very own way. They all are really so uniquely them."

This has really gotten me thinking. I know that I am different so I thought that is maybe what was making Tula and Ivy seem so different but now I am having second thoughts. I have to start now to realize Ivy and Tula are each their own. I can't always be saying Ivy did this and Tula does that, because without a doubt one always seems to be a positive and the other a negative but in all honesty, they are just different.

This week I thought I would give the old Baby Ivy sleep routine a try with Tula since she has started to get restless in the evenings. Newsflash- I realized I never really had to let Ivy "cry it out" I just thought I was prepared for that. She may have whimpered for a total of 3 minutes at the longest, but really she just enjoyed going to bed at night (and staying asleep)! Tula loves taking some killer naps all over creation but at night she really doesn't want to be left alone. I saw what "cry it out" really looks like, for all of 10 minutes, and slammed the door in it's face! I can't do it. I guess I am a weenie since I know many babies who have survived it and slept great but Tula was no where near calming herself down. With every belly pat and visit to her crib side she got angrier. Once I picked her up, she was calmed by my touch and staring me in the face she fell right to sleep and slept for most of the night (7 hours).

This made me realize it's not all about my overall relaxed nature this time around, but more that babies are just different and really can't be compared. They are all comforted in different ways and every stage of every child is going to test us without a doubt. We are the parents trying to tweak this and change that in order to best suit this unique little gift from above- and that is what parenting is all about. There is not a one way formula that works and you have to find that groove that best fits your family. I am eating the same words I fed out to other Mama's when Ivy was little --sorry if you are one of those- :*( -- I would say try this and try that- only to see that it was what worked for Ivy but all babies are different and even my own second born can't function on an Ivy-like routine.

With that said...
Cheers to a second baby who can't be compared to anyone but her!
Cheers to all Mamas going with their mama-instinct and doing what works!

Two HUGE revelations this week!

Love Affair

2011-02-03T20:18:00.003-05:00

I have been having a love affair... and I only wish it was with my husband!
Instead, I present to you....

Mr. Milk Man

Oh the lengths, you go to continue nursing your baby when you go back to work. My great lengths include two quick rendezvous with Mr. Milk Man in the utility closet hidden deep in the walls of Wilmore Elementary. I am surrounded by wires, old computers, the occasional creepy crawly, and enough dust bunnies to build Tula Belle a brand new stuffed animal!

But oh, how it is worth it! I am so excited that Tula and I have reached the 5 months of nursing mark this week. Ivy was done as my supply dwindled out at 4 months so I am patting myself on the back and cheering us on to keep going. My goal was to nurse Tula longer than I was able to do with Ivy and that I have accomplished- am I done? Absolutely not! It is going too well. My supply is meeting Tula's needs and she still prefers nursing over the bottle any day. My babysitter and lovely family members who have attempted feeding Tula would say prefers is a light word for the rejection she shows toward the bottle the first 15 minutes of every bottle feeding. (Sorry to you all... happy for me!) She is growing, growing complete with chubby cheeks and rolls up and down her thighs on this liquid gold alone.

I am so thankful for this time with my sweet baby and for her the love affair between the Milk Man and Mama will have to continue!

The Story of My Stretch Pants

2011-01-26T16:14:00.003-05:00

Tula: "Oh no you didn't!!! Seriously? These jeans look TERRIBLE!"
Mama: "Awwww.... but you are so cute with your chubby bum!"
Tula: "No really.... I don't think I can move in these... not roll from side to side, not sit up, and honestly, I can barely breathe."
Mama: "Oh honey, I know the feeling... thanks to you, my love! I promise to take them off this instant, pack them in a box, never to be seen again!"

Due to this convo (and completely understanding my girl's pain) you will not be seeing Tula in jeans for the rest of her diapered life!

Songs and Squeals

2011-01-24T15:40:00.002-05:00

Come on into the Smorstad house.... these are the noises you will hear!

Ivy is always singing a new song. She is currently busy singing the months of the year. She now is not only planning for the here and now but she is asking about what she will be doing February through December. She is quite the planner- wonder where she got that from?? :)

Not only will you hear the songs of a toddler but you will also hear all sorts of snorts, giggles, and squeals coming from Miss Tula. We are loving the verbal stage that she is in and enjoy her happy talking! If this baby babble turns into the conversations, stories, and songs that we hear from Big Sister- Mommy and Daddy are never going to get in a word!

Just click on the links to watch the videos via you-tube....
I am not sure why I am having such a hard time embedding them lately! Any suggestions from you pro-bloggers? When I copy and paste the code to embed it a black box with a play button appears but it doesn't have the video???