I have blogger's block...sorry. There's just too much going on right now, I don't have a lot of time to think of wonderful things to write about. Today is our last moving day and we have to crunch it to get everything out of the other house to-day! Once we get this moving stuff over with, maybe something great will come to me.
In the meantime, I would be interested if anyone can suggest good names for a baby girl. I don't know what the gender of the baby is of course, and already have our boy name, but it could be another girl and I have no ideas.
Suggestions are welcome.
January 31, 2009
January 28, 2009
Freedom
I just wanted to let everyone know about the link that I have on the left hand sidebar. My husband has created a website dedicated to bring awareness to all Americans about the cost of our freedom, and what we need to do to secure that freedom. He has put lots of time and effort into it, which is still a work in progress. However he has some audio clips of a special speaker talking about the economy and how things work in easy to understand terms. He has also put some amazing videos on there too. Here is one of them, just because it's so moving and obviously, because we need to be free internally before we can have freedom externally.
And this one too, because I love it.
And this one too, because I love it.
January 27, 2009
Creating Traditions
A few years ago, I was on amazon.com looking at a book called 'Mrs. Sharp's Traditions'. I was looking on the list where individual people sell things through amazon, and I was looking one book priced between $2-4, I can't remember. For some reason, I thought that when I clicked the button 'One click shopping', that I would still have a chance to cancel it.
One click definitely means one click, because as soon as I clicked it, it was on it's way. However, God must have made me do it, because it has been such a blessing. It was a beautiful hard cover book, filled with gorgeous pictures of Victorian living and lots of inspiring ideas.
Mostly, the book is divided into the months of the year, and then she describes different activities and celebrations during the Victorian era. There are also sections about being a homemaker and running a household, which are very encouraging and uplifting.
All that to say, every year since I got the book I've wanted to make real Victorian homemade valentines. The Victorians virtually created the Valentine's Day craze that is present now, but in a much simpler setting. They made beautiful and elaborate valentine cards, not the little rinky dink ones at walmart. Not only that, but it was a time for the whole family to express love to each other, not just couples.
Mrs. Sharp's suggestions are: The week before Valentines Day, gather friends and family together to make homemade valentine cards and create special boxes with slots in the top to put the cards in for each family member. Celebrate with an afternoon tea.
The day of Valentine's, each child awakens to a homemade card under their pillow. They come to the breakfast table, all decked in red and white and are served heart shaped cinnamon toast and strawberry muffins. In each of the children's school bags is a little Valentine themed gift, like pencils or a pad of paper. In their lunches they have heart shaped sandwiches and cookies.
She also makes sure the children have enough Valentine cards for all their school mates.
When the kids come home, they have a Valentine Tea party for their dolls and stuffed animals, because they are well loved. Then in the evening, the family gathers for their Valentine dinner. Each place setting has gold foil cornucopias filled with heart candies and chocolates and after dinner they have a heart shaped cake to eat.
I don't know about you, but that sounds like a lot!!! But, they are just ideas, you can pick and choose what you want. I personally think that it's a good idea to make Valentines Day about the whole family, not just romantic couples. So, I am planning in the next week or so, to head out to a craft store and pick up some heart shaped doilies, Victorian stickers, pink and red paper etc. to make homemade cards and send them in the mail to grandparents. If I can find a box, then I will make one with a slot in the top to put extra cards in for the girls.
I am not planning on doing any of the above festivities, except a sweet dinner with the family. All I need is a lace tablecloth to lay over a pink sheet, some pink and red flowers to put into my rose patterned teapot, some small boxes of chocolates in heart shaped boxes and some extra large doilies to go under the plates, and we can have a cute Valentines dinner.
Then everyone can have a special, handmade card on their plate and that's that. Sounds fun to me, to surprise people with real, handmade Valentine Cards. Of course I'll have to figure out how to make super big envelopes to put them in!
January 26, 2009
Monday again
I took a blog break!
I just haven't been in the mood to post...or in the mood to compute in general. Plus we are still moving stuff every weekend- sick of it!!
Friday I went to my first doctor appointment and all is well. We had an ultrasound and the baby looked great- heart beating and it was wiggling its arms and legs at us. The due date is now August 17th. My doctor was easy going and nice. He also told me that we would need to have another c-section, but if for some reason I went into labor and was pretty far along, then I would probably be able to have the baby naturally. That's great- that is my answer.
So, I will tell them not to schedule the c-section until the due date. They like to schedule them early at times so you don't go into labor and you never go overdue. Then, I will do everything I possibly can to prepare my body for labor before then. Plus, I have a chiropractor friend who does acupuncture to start labor, which he did on me before, but he was new to it and I needed more than one treatment for it to work, which I didn't have time for. Now supposedly it will work within 48hrs.
So, we'll see what happens. I know that labor and birth is hard work and not necessarily easier, but recovery is what I'm thinking of. Being able to walk after birth would be nice. I don't know about you, but January seems endless to me. I am so ready to move on to spring, which is odd because I generally like the cold. I am ready to plant a spring garden and sew spring dresses.
Speaking of which, I am considering taking us back to mostly dresses again; my girls love to dress up and I love making them look adorable, so why not? I can't stand anything constricting my belly when pregnant, so all the new styles of dresses are perfect. I can buy a couple of cheap patterns and make all different styles of easy to sew dresses. I have been seriously 'craving' my sewing machine. I got tired of it after making two quilts, but it's been three months since I made anything and I have plans.
Anyways, I am feeling much better. I have more energy and am not needing to eat all day long so now I can actually accomplish stuff. Today I have bedding laundry, dh's laundry, the kitchen floor to clean, and about 6 boxes to unpack. If I can I am going to make homemade english muffins- been craving them too!
Speaking of cravings- FISH! I made an awesome clam chowder Saturday night, which I haven't made in years! A large can of whole clams was only $1.67 at walmart and I got an extra jar of clam juice, also $1 and some change. That along with some bacon, some heavy cream and milk and some potatoes and we had some good eatin'! Oh it was yummy...but I also splurged and bought shrimp for eating with cocktail sauce. I told Matt we might be eating that or a version of that every week.
Ok I'll just post the recipe:
3 slices of bacon or more if you want
1 medium onion, chopped
1 t dried thyme, or two bay leaves
1 large can of clams, if whole chop them up (yes they look gross)
1 bottle of clam juice
3 cups of milk
1 cup of heavy cream
3 cups diced russet potatoes
In a large pot cook the bacon till crisp. Remove bacon and add a pat of butter and the onions. Cook till soft, then add about 1/4 cup of flour. Cook a minute, then add the clam juice, potatoes and enough water to just cover potatoes. Cover and reduce heat; cook till potatoes are soft, then add the rest of the ingredients and season to taste. Let simmer for about 5-10 minutes to blend flavors. Serve with crust bread or oyster crackers.
I just haven't been in the mood to post...or in the mood to compute in general. Plus we are still moving stuff every weekend- sick of it!!
Friday I went to my first doctor appointment and all is well. We had an ultrasound and the baby looked great- heart beating and it was wiggling its arms and legs at us. The due date is now August 17th. My doctor was easy going and nice. He also told me that we would need to have another c-section, but if for some reason I went into labor and was pretty far along, then I would probably be able to have the baby naturally. That's great- that is my answer.
So, I will tell them not to schedule the c-section until the due date. They like to schedule them early at times so you don't go into labor and you never go overdue. Then, I will do everything I possibly can to prepare my body for labor before then. Plus, I have a chiropractor friend who does acupuncture to start labor, which he did on me before, but he was new to it and I needed more than one treatment for it to work, which I didn't have time for. Now supposedly it will work within 48hrs.
So, we'll see what happens. I know that labor and birth is hard work and not necessarily easier, but recovery is what I'm thinking of. Being able to walk after birth would be nice. I don't know about you, but January seems endless to me. I am so ready to move on to spring, which is odd because I generally like the cold. I am ready to plant a spring garden and sew spring dresses.
Speaking of which, I am considering taking us back to mostly dresses again; my girls love to dress up and I love making them look adorable, so why not? I can't stand anything constricting my belly when pregnant, so all the new styles of dresses are perfect. I can buy a couple of cheap patterns and make all different styles of easy to sew dresses. I have been seriously 'craving' my sewing machine. I got tired of it after making two quilts, but it's been three months since I made anything and I have plans.
Anyways, I am feeling much better. I have more energy and am not needing to eat all day long so now I can actually accomplish stuff. Today I have bedding laundry, dh's laundry, the kitchen floor to clean, and about 6 boxes to unpack. If I can I am going to make homemade english muffins- been craving them too!
Speaking of cravings- FISH! I made an awesome clam chowder Saturday night, which I haven't made in years! A large can of whole clams was only $1.67 at walmart and I got an extra jar of clam juice, also $1 and some change. That along with some bacon, some heavy cream and milk and some potatoes and we had some good eatin'! Oh it was yummy...but I also splurged and bought shrimp for eating with cocktail sauce. I told Matt we might be eating that or a version of that every week.
Ok I'll just post the recipe:
3 slices of bacon or more if you want
1 medium onion, chopped
1 t dried thyme, or two bay leaves
1 large can of clams, if whole chop them up (yes they look gross)
1 bottle of clam juice
3 cups of milk
1 cup of heavy cream
3 cups diced russet potatoes
In a large pot cook the bacon till crisp. Remove bacon and add a pat of butter and the onions. Cook till soft, then add about 1/4 cup of flour. Cook a minute, then add the clam juice, potatoes and enough water to just cover potatoes. Cover and reduce heat; cook till potatoes are soft, then add the rest of the ingredients and season to taste. Let simmer for about 5-10 minutes to blend flavors. Serve with crust bread or oyster crackers.
January 21, 2009
The Real Me
Oh wow, in my world of heightened nose sensitivity, I just had a wonderful experience. I have been feeling good today and I made some homemade chocolate chip cookies...er, bars. I just took them out of the oven and hovered over the pan to smell for awhile :) I also have some bread dough in the machine going. I was going to make either muffins or granola too, but I had some unexpected visitors.
Since yesterday I was a bit serious I thought I would do a funny today. A belly pic! The reason it's so funny is because- I don't have one. I look like this all the time, and will continue to until around 5-6 months into the pregnancy. You shall also get a glimpse into what I really wear lately. COMFORT is key!
(if you can't see well, you an click the pic to enlarge. I am AWFUL at taking pictures) I have a hump of leftover pregnant belly there. I can suck it in if I wish, which lately, I've just been letting it hang out. Let people think I'm 6 months along, oh well.
I have my 4th of July t-shirt on and some weird red stretchy maternity pants I got from my sister. I have some furry gray slippers on too. It is cold today, but I didn't feel up to long sleeves. No makeup, but freshly washed hair.
Since yesterday I was a bit serious I thought I would do a funny today. A belly pic! The reason it's so funny is because- I don't have one. I look like this all the time, and will continue to until around 5-6 months into the pregnancy. You shall also get a glimpse into what I really wear lately. COMFORT is key!
(if you can't see well, you an click the pic to enlarge. I am AWFUL at taking pictures) I have a hump of leftover pregnant belly there. I can suck it in if I wish, which lately, I've just been letting it hang out. Let people think I'm 6 months along, oh well.
I have my 4th of July t-shirt on and some weird red stretchy maternity pants I got from my sister. I have some furry gray slippers on too. It is cold today, but I didn't feel up to long sleeves. No makeup, but freshly washed hair.
January 20, 2009
Thoughts on Homeschool
It seems like everywhere I go online, at least in the 'genre' of blogs I like to read, almost everyone homeschools. I am so amazed at how these many mothers put forth such great effort to give their children the best education possible. Yet, the idea overwhelms me.
When I was little I wanted to teach and I continued wanting to be a teacher until I graduated. But now that I have nearing school age children, um, I don't want to. Why? I am barely able to do the basics of homekeeping right now. How on earth would I school two children, one with special needs, with a preschooler and a newborn next year? How would I do that and keep house, do laundry, cook good meals, exercise, pay attention to hubby and have free time to blog etc.?? I admit, I can be a lazy person at times, especially now. Deep down I want to be busy, but it's just not possible at this point in my life.
I just honestly do not have the desire to homeschool. Does that make me less of a Christian or a negligent mom? I know that times have changed in the last 20 years, but I went to public school until highschool. I learned a lot! I got a good education and made some great friends. I had lots of opportunities and never got mixed in with the wrong crowd. Same goes for my sister. And my husband, and his siblings and other friends. Sure, we live in the Bible Belt of America, and in small towns as well, which probably plays a big part. I wasn't sheltered away from the crude things in life, I just had sense enough to avoid it.
In my ideal setting, when my girls are all old enough to really take things seriously, yes I would like to homeschool. I want them to learn to run a household and learn lots of other skills they won't at public school. I want to mold them and teach them myself as well. I just can't envision myself doing that now, when they're so little. It would just seem like a huge chore.
However, I don't like not being very involved in Leiah's daily life. Her teacher reports to me what she is working on and how she is doing, but I never get to see her in action. I want to be invisible so I can sneak up there and observe without anyone knowing :) And it seems to be true for my children, but they do better with someone other than me. They pay attention better and try a lot harder with someone else, probably because they're with me all the time.
I think homeschooling is great and that if people want to do it they should. Children do seem more educated and more well adjusted to the reality of life. But, it's not everyone's path. Maybe it will be mine someday, but at this point we'll be doing regular school.
When I was little I wanted to teach and I continued wanting to be a teacher until I graduated. But now that I have nearing school age children, um, I don't want to. Why? I am barely able to do the basics of homekeeping right now. How on earth would I school two children, one with special needs, with a preschooler and a newborn next year? How would I do that and keep house, do laundry, cook good meals, exercise, pay attention to hubby and have free time to blog etc.?? I admit, I can be a lazy person at times, especially now. Deep down I want to be busy, but it's just not possible at this point in my life.
I just honestly do not have the desire to homeschool. Does that make me less of a Christian or a negligent mom? I know that times have changed in the last 20 years, but I went to public school until highschool. I learned a lot! I got a good education and made some great friends. I had lots of opportunities and never got mixed in with the wrong crowd. Same goes for my sister. And my husband, and his siblings and other friends. Sure, we live in the Bible Belt of America, and in small towns as well, which probably plays a big part. I wasn't sheltered away from the crude things in life, I just had sense enough to avoid it.
In my ideal setting, when my girls are all old enough to really take things seriously, yes I would like to homeschool. I want them to learn to run a household and learn lots of other skills they won't at public school. I want to mold them and teach them myself as well. I just can't envision myself doing that now, when they're so little. It would just seem like a huge chore.
However, I don't like not being very involved in Leiah's daily life. Her teacher reports to me what she is working on and how she is doing, but I never get to see her in action. I want to be invisible so I can sneak up there and observe without anyone knowing :) And it seems to be true for my children, but they do better with someone other than me. They pay attention better and try a lot harder with someone else, probably because they're with me all the time.
I think homeschooling is great and that if people want to do it they should. Children do seem more educated and more well adjusted to the reality of life. But, it's not everyone's path. Maybe it will be mine someday, but at this point we'll be doing regular school.
January 19, 2009
Still around
Sorry my posts take a long break over the weekend. We are still moving...very slowly too. It's so frustrating because my lack of energy has just ruined how I wanted this move to go. I have some good days here and there and some bad days.
My husband is the best. He has taken up the slack and helped me so much. And with a good attitude, with love. When I think he will begrudge the fact that I am sleeping later and not making his breakfast, he wakes me up with kisses. When I've been laying on the couch for an hour while he is working on something, he comes and asks me what I want for dinner.
I need some ideas on how to surprise bless him. I want to send him something to work, but flowers aren't very masculine. I would bring him lunch one day, but he doesn't have the best place to eat unless it's a nice day outside. A card doesn't seem like enough either. I would love to gift him with a trip somewhere- a man trip, LOL. Hunting or fishing or something, but I know nothing about that, and he would want me to go, so I guess I could do a romance trip. I could blow him away with a cruise, but even if I could afford it, where would the kids go for a week??
Maybe something will come to me...
Anyways, I'm not going to pretend, but this early pregnancy stuff is HARD. Thankfully I am not having morning sickness, but so much fatigue and weakness! It blows me away. And on the days I feel good, I really do a lot, but still, it's not the same as being able to go everyday. I feel like I'm doing an awful job as a wife, mom and homemaker.
I need a routine. It's hard enough without dealing with boxes all over, with more on the way. Mornings are hardest for me right now. I guess I may have to force myself up earlier so I can have more time to get it together before everyone needs me.
Anyways, I've gotten a lot done so far. I still have a sink full of dishes to wash, two boxes in the kitchen to deal with and still mountains of laundry. The bathrooms could use a cleaning too, but I majorly lack the motivation for that!
Have a nice day!
My husband is the best. He has taken up the slack and helped me so much. And with a good attitude, with love. When I think he will begrudge the fact that I am sleeping later and not making his breakfast, he wakes me up with kisses. When I've been laying on the couch for an hour while he is working on something, he comes and asks me what I want for dinner.
I need some ideas on how to surprise bless him. I want to send him something to work, but flowers aren't very masculine. I would bring him lunch one day, but he doesn't have the best place to eat unless it's a nice day outside. A card doesn't seem like enough either. I would love to gift him with a trip somewhere- a man trip, LOL. Hunting or fishing or something, but I know nothing about that, and he would want me to go, so I guess I could do a romance trip. I could blow him away with a cruise, but even if I could afford it, where would the kids go for a week??
Maybe something will come to me...
Anyways, I'm not going to pretend, but this early pregnancy stuff is HARD. Thankfully I am not having morning sickness, but so much fatigue and weakness! It blows me away. And on the days I feel good, I really do a lot, but still, it's not the same as being able to go everyday. I feel like I'm doing an awful job as a wife, mom and homemaker.
I need a routine. It's hard enough without dealing with boxes all over, with more on the way. Mornings are hardest for me right now. I guess I may have to force myself up earlier so I can have more time to get it together before everyone needs me.
Anyways, I've gotten a lot done so far. I still have a sink full of dishes to wash, two boxes in the kitchen to deal with and still mountains of laundry. The bathrooms could use a cleaning too, but I majorly lack the motivation for that!
Have a nice day!
January 16, 2009
Shopping
I spent my online time yesterday doing some 'window shopping'. My husband was blessed with a significant raise and we are also now in a rent free home, so soon, we will be catching up a lot of bills with some leftover. Yay!
We got an awesome king sized bed as a gift back in the early summer. However, I don't have bedding that fits besides sheets. So, I really want to get some bedding and fix my room up a little. I really want this one, but I can't find it in king size :(
Those are the exact colors I was wanting, plus it's feminine without being terribly frilly.
Speaking of frilly, I have also picked out bedding for my oldest daughter. If you remember I made a quilt for her in the late summer. However, they are just too rough for it yet, so I'm just gonna buy her some. I think I've decided on this set, even though she doesn't have daybed, it would still work.
Except, we will be doing the pink set, NO WHITE!!!
And, I am also planning to have a spa day at some point- could sure use some work on the feet! Then, if we are having twins, we'll be needing some extra supplies. I don't know why I feel so strongly that we are; I might actually be disappointed if not. I am having an ultrasound next Friday, so we'll know by then. I would need another bassinet/cradle, two carseats, another bouncy seat, a new double stroller, um a breast pump lol, and a lot of diapers. I'm planning to cloth diaper, but if there are two plus the three I already have, I'm not sure if that would be practical, at least in the beginning. I think regardless of the sex of the baby I'm going neutral. I get tired of girly pink stuff you know.
This one is cute:
I have an oak colored sleigh crib though.
Anyways, today I must do some cleaning. Mainly vacuum and the toilets could use a detailed cleaning. Plus the laundry mountain still needs work and some boxes need unpacked. Time to go.
We got an awesome king sized bed as a gift back in the early summer. However, I don't have bedding that fits besides sheets. So, I really want to get some bedding and fix my room up a little. I really want this one, but I can't find it in king size :(
Those are the exact colors I was wanting, plus it's feminine without being terribly frilly.Speaking of frilly, I have also picked out bedding for my oldest daughter. If you remember I made a quilt for her in the late summer. However, they are just too rough for it yet, so I'm just gonna buy her some. I think I've decided on this set, even though she doesn't have daybed, it would still work.
Except, we will be doing the pink set, NO WHITE!!!And, I am also planning to have a spa day at some point- could sure use some work on the feet! Then, if we are having twins, we'll be needing some extra supplies. I don't know why I feel so strongly that we are; I might actually be disappointed if not. I am having an ultrasound next Friday, so we'll know by then. I would need another bassinet/cradle, two carseats, another bouncy seat, a new double stroller, um a breast pump lol, and a lot of diapers. I'm planning to cloth diaper, but if there are two plus the three I already have, I'm not sure if that would be practical, at least in the beginning. I think regardless of the sex of the baby I'm going neutral. I get tired of girly pink stuff you know.
This one is cute:
I have an oak colored sleigh crib though.Anyways, today I must do some cleaning. Mainly vacuum and the toilets could use a detailed cleaning. Plus the laundry mountain still needs work and some boxes need unpacked. Time to go.
January 14, 2009
The Health Plan
Diet for Pregnant and Nursing Mothers
Cod Liver Oil to supply 20,000 IU vitamin A and 2000 IU vitamin D per day
1 quart (or 32 ounces) whole milk daily, preferably raw and from pasture-fed cows (learn more about raw milk on our website, A Campaign for Real Milk, www.realmilk.com)
4 tablespoons butter daily, preferably from pasture-fed cows
2 or more eggs daily, preferably from pastured chickens
Additional egg yolks daily, added to smoothies, salad dressings, scrambled eggs, etc.
3-4 ounces fresh liver, once or twice per week (If you have been told to avoid liver for fear of getting "too much Vitamin A," be sure to read Vitamin A Saga)
Fresh seafood, 2-4 times per week, particularly wild salmon, shellfish and fish eggs
Fresh beef or lamb daily, always consumed with the fat
Oily fish or lard daily, for vitamin D
2 tablespoons coconut oil daily, used in cooking or smoothies, etc.
Lacto-fermented condiments and beverages
Bone broths used in soups, stews and sauces
Fresh vegetables and fruits
AVOID:
- Trans fatty acids (e.g., hydrogenated oils)
- Junk foods
- Commercial fried foods
- Sugar
- White flour
- Soft drinks
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Cigarettes
- Drugs (even prescription drugs)
This is the diet recommended by the Dr. Weston A. Price website, which you can view here. It doesn't seem to hard, but I realize I am supposed to be eating all of that right now in the early stages of development. Fish, liver and fish oil ain't ringing a bell you know?
So, I need to transition myself slowly I think. I have allowed a good bit of processed food to enter the diet, but sometimes you just need some help. I am hoping, by next week if not before, to go back to picking up raw milk again. I don't know if I can drink a whole quart of it a day, but I can at least drink two cups or so.
I already eat eggs and butter and coconut oil, just not in those amounts. Seafood, well, I don't know what to do about that one. I'll have to check out the frozen fish sections of the stores around here. I can get canned tuna and salmon, but I don't know if I can handle the smells right now. I haven't made homemade bone broths in awhile either, which isn't hard, just a little time consuming since it has to simmer for a long time, then you strain it, then chill it, then skim off the fat, then store it.
The soaked whole grains haven't been regular either, except for oatmeal. I am still making kefir and started kombucha again. I try to buy organic possible, however our budget has not allowed for it until now. The good quality beef and lamb is also not really available, to my knowledge, unless I buy a live one,LOL.
I am also researching what herbs to include as well. I may be going through a temporary anemia spell. Apparently as your blood volume increases, the plasma increases and your need for iron increases. I haven't been very consistent with taking my vitamins because sometimes they affect me badly, so an herbal infusion may be better. So, the main herbs you need are:
Red raspberry leaf- strengthens and tones uterus
Nettle- high in vitamins and minerals
alfalfa- the same
Peppermint-for easing digestion and for taste
There are others that are good too, but most blends I am seeing online contain these ones.
This diet would be good for anyone and the herbs good for women to drink whether pregnant or not.
The other thing is picking out some pregnancy workout videos. I am determined to not be fat this time. My joints have been aching and I am sitting/laying down a lot. I want to be able to wear a swimsuit and not be ashamed. So, I have found a couple that should help- one is pilates and another is a strength building workout. Like I said, I can at least tone the limbs if not the belly :)
Laundry calls!
January 13, 2009
Returned
I am back! I've been without internet since we moved and too busy before to get online.
Thanks so much for all the helpful tips with smells. Sometimes it's not so bad, but today the smell of cooking beans wasn't too nice. However the smell of fresh made guacamole was real nice!
Just to update, I am actually not feeling sick or nauseous, just certain smells can make me feel that way. (Umm, diesel exhaust is bad too) I have actually now turned into a human trash compactor- I must eat on the hour every hour. If not my stomach start rumbling and growling and it's painful and then I get weak...what's up with this?? I am really wondering if there is more than one baby...yikes!
Today I had to go buy groceries with my youngest two, and half way through the trip my blood sugar dropped out and I was feeling pretty bad. I made it through till just before checkout and I sat down for awhile, which of course brought attention to myself. Finally I made myself grab a coke and get on with it. I was better after that.
Alrighty, so we have moved back to the house in town that we lived in before. Go here for pictures, but keep in mind it doesn't look exactly the same now. I will update with pics soon. Moving is, in my opinion, the worst. LOL. Maybe because I've done it haphazardly so many times. Maybe one day I will learn how to properly move.
Quick story then I have to go. Friday morning my husband woke me up at 6am telling me the kitchen was flooding and there was a busted pipe behind the washing machine. I go outside with him to hold the flashlight while he tries to find the water cutoff. He searches and digs and calls the landlady, then her son...it literally sounded like a waterfall was in the house, but it wasn't flooding that fast. Anyways he finally found it and cut it off, while we used every towel in the house to clean it up a bit. Then we have to wait for the plumbers to come check it out- just a 'pinhole' in the pipe? Next we wait on the insurance people to send a guy out to check on the damage. Turns out it was pretty bad so he set up three big fans to blow on the drywall, a giant dehumidifier going, ripped up the linoleum and it had to stay that way till Monday. It sounded like a giant beehive was in the kitchen. So, I haven't had a washing machine until tonight. And we are way backed up! I will be busy for at least a whole day on that.
At least it happened while we were still there. If not, that whole house could have been flooded before anyone knew about it. What a horrible thought!
Thanks so much for all the helpful tips with smells. Sometimes it's not so bad, but today the smell of cooking beans wasn't too nice. However the smell of fresh made guacamole was real nice!
Just to update, I am actually not feeling sick or nauseous, just certain smells can make me feel that way. (Umm, diesel exhaust is bad too) I have actually now turned into a human trash compactor- I must eat on the hour every hour. If not my stomach start rumbling and growling and it's painful and then I get weak...what's up with this?? I am really wondering if there is more than one baby...yikes!
Today I had to go buy groceries with my youngest two, and half way through the trip my blood sugar dropped out and I was feeling pretty bad. I made it through till just before checkout and I sat down for awhile, which of course brought attention to myself. Finally I made myself grab a coke and get on with it. I was better after that.
Alrighty, so we have moved back to the house in town that we lived in before. Go here for pictures, but keep in mind it doesn't look exactly the same now. I will update with pics soon. Moving is, in my opinion, the worst. LOL. Maybe because I've done it haphazardly so many times. Maybe one day I will learn how to properly move.
Quick story then I have to go. Friday morning my husband woke me up at 6am telling me the kitchen was flooding and there was a busted pipe behind the washing machine. I go outside with him to hold the flashlight while he tries to find the water cutoff. He searches and digs and calls the landlady, then her son...it literally sounded like a waterfall was in the house, but it wasn't flooding that fast. Anyways he finally found it and cut it off, while we used every towel in the house to clean it up a bit. Then we have to wait for the plumbers to come check it out- just a 'pinhole' in the pipe? Next we wait on the insurance people to send a guy out to check on the damage. Turns out it was pretty bad so he set up three big fans to blow on the drywall, a giant dehumidifier going, ripped up the linoleum and it had to stay that way till Monday. It sounded like a giant beehive was in the kitchen. So, I haven't had a washing machine until tonight. And we are way backed up! I will be busy for at least a whole day on that.
At least it happened while we were still there. If not, that whole house could have been flooded before anyone knew about it. What a horrible thought!
January 8, 2009
Smells
I have a problem. Everything is extremely odiferous- as in stinky or strong smelling- to me. Cigarette smoke is the WORST and I can smell the slightest hint of it. I am forever smelling something bad and I want to know how to make the house smell good.
I used up all my Febreeze and things to spray it on. I am out of cinnamon sticks to simmer on the stove. I only have one giant candle that is a pumpkin spice scent, but I want fresh and clean. I opened the windows, but it still stinks in here! I have heard of putting vinegar out in the open and it will absorb smells overnight, but sometimes you need a quick fix before you gag you know?
Actually, the smell of a super soaked diaper stinks more to me than a poopy one. Weird. Burned food is bad, stinky trash, stinky dog is bad, but hands down, the urine and the cigarette smoke are the worst. What does a heightened sense of smell have to do with a growing baby??
I used up all my Febreeze and things to spray it on. I am out of cinnamon sticks to simmer on the stove. I only have one giant candle that is a pumpkin spice scent, but I want fresh and clean. I opened the windows, but it still stinks in here! I have heard of putting vinegar out in the open and it will absorb smells overnight, but sometimes you need a quick fix before you gag you know?
Actually, the smell of a super soaked diaper stinks more to me than a poopy one. Weird. Burned food is bad, stinky trash, stinky dog is bad, but hands down, the urine and the cigarette smoke are the worst. What does a heightened sense of smell have to do with a growing baby??
January 7, 2009
Out of Commission
I'm back. I have certainly been out of commission the last several days. That weird cough persisted and I didn't get adequate sleep for five days plus the usual pregnancy stuff plus we're moving...
There were a whole lot more things than that, but I do not wish to go through the details. I thought I would make a comparison of the things I used to do with what I do now, just for a laugh. Things change so rapidly when one is expecting!
Used To Do:
I had a daily cleaning plan
I cooked all meals from scratch
I planned the budget wisely
I made lots of frugal alternatives for detergent and cleaners and stuff like that
I sewed
I entertained guests
My house was spic and span
My laundry was mostly caught up
Children had more limited TV time
I vacuumed and mopped
I worked on my daily Nourishing Traditions food work (kefir, soaking etc.)
I took good care of dh
Now I do:
The laundry hampers are overflowing so I pick out what we need the most and wash that
The dishes get done once a day or so
The carpet hasn't been vacuumed in awhile...at least a week
I haven't swept the floor in many days
I have loads of processed food in my cupboards and am thankful it's there
I haven't baked our bread in several weeks, however I did make homemade cinnamon rolls Monday.
Dh has to make his breakfast and lunch and fend for himself somewhat.
Dh has a daily errand to run after work, several times a week
(I am meeting his most basic needs, don't worry)
I spend several hours a day resting
healthy food makes me hurl, or want to, except I have been craving salads
I feel I need a makeover- I feel ugly and dumpy
Children have unlimited TV time, however they didn't even turn it on today! I am amazed.
All that to say, my paradigm has shifted a lot the last few weeks. Before I chafed when my bare feet would touch the grit on the floor- now it's not that bad. I would feel idle and like a failure if I didn't get my check list finished. I would be terribly embarrassed if someone came into my home and the throw blankets and pillows were out of order.
I have found that I have relaxed a lot and have enjoyed just watching my children. I have a deeper bond with them now that I've slowed down to watch them play and play with them. They don't care about check lists and will never know if Mom got it done. Today after I hauled some stuff to the 'old house' we're moving back into, I was feeling rather weak and hungry, so we high tailed it McDonald's since it was close. After the girls ate they went to the play ground and I sat and watched them, so thrilled with the simplicity of sliding and crawling around in some plastic tubes and eating deep fried potatoes and chicken. They were delighted and I felt truly blessed to have little ones. They remind you of being a kid yourself and not to be so serious all the time.
Hopefully after we move I will morph back into my old self a little so that we can have nutritious food and a clean home and some organization. I had been planning to post the pregnancy diet I was going to follow, but since I'm not really following it I decided to hold off.
*************New Topic***********************************
Ok ladies, I am trying to figure out what to do. Many of you know that I have had three c-sections and have never been in labor. I tried for a vbac the last time, but my doctor put me in a hard place and sort of forced me into the surgery at the end. (yeah thanks a lot) I have been researching it for awhile, but my only options are c-section or unassisted birth. Midwives generally need to be backed my doctors, and doctors don't like vbacs, at least not as many as I've had.
I am praying, but I haven't got the right message yet. I am supposed to go next week for my first appointment with my OB from before- I mainly want to make sure there's just one baby :) But my husband and I aren't sure what to do since we will be moving again and relocating. I have been reading lots and watching lots of videos, but still am not sure of the right plan. I have spoken with one midwife and she turned me down.
C-sections aren't all bad, but I remember every detail, and surgery and hospitals just aren't pleasant. It's not home. I know labor and birth are hard work and somewhat painful and it's all new to me. I've never had a contraction! But, surgery isn't an easy recovery and i've never been able to breastfeed because of the pain. (for some reason I bleed for awhile until my skin toughens up, which it never does because I can't be hurting in three places at once. The nurses kept telling me the babies were latched on perfectly, but dang it hurt!)
I really want to work hard on this one, c-section or not, because it's free and the best for the baby and mom. (maybe I could lose some weight!) I am having a terrible time here- how am I supposed to wait another 7 months to hold this baby!? I can hardly wait to see and touch it. I have been 'baby hungry' for a good while, can you tell?
Ok, I have more research to do.
There were a whole lot more things than that, but I do not wish to go through the details. I thought I would make a comparison of the things I used to do with what I do now, just for a laugh. Things change so rapidly when one is expecting!
Used To Do:
I had a daily cleaning plan
I cooked all meals from scratch
I planned the budget wisely
I made lots of frugal alternatives for detergent and cleaners and stuff like that
I sewed
I entertained guests
My house was spic and span
My laundry was mostly caught up
Children had more limited TV time
I vacuumed and mopped
I worked on my daily Nourishing Traditions food work (kefir, soaking etc.)
I took good care of dh
Now I do:
The laundry hampers are overflowing so I pick out what we need the most and wash that
The dishes get done once a day or so
The carpet hasn't been vacuumed in awhile...at least a week
I haven't swept the floor in many days
I have loads of processed food in my cupboards and am thankful it's there
I haven't baked our bread in several weeks, however I did make homemade cinnamon rolls Monday.
Dh has to make his breakfast and lunch and fend for himself somewhat.
Dh has a daily errand to run after work, several times a week
(I am meeting his most basic needs, don't worry)
I spend several hours a day resting
healthy food makes me hurl, or want to, except I have been craving salads
I feel I need a makeover- I feel ugly and dumpy
Children have unlimited TV time, however they didn't even turn it on today! I am amazed.
All that to say, my paradigm has shifted a lot the last few weeks. Before I chafed when my bare feet would touch the grit on the floor- now it's not that bad. I would feel idle and like a failure if I didn't get my check list finished. I would be terribly embarrassed if someone came into my home and the throw blankets and pillows were out of order.
I have found that I have relaxed a lot and have enjoyed just watching my children. I have a deeper bond with them now that I've slowed down to watch them play and play with them. They don't care about check lists and will never know if Mom got it done. Today after I hauled some stuff to the 'old house' we're moving back into, I was feeling rather weak and hungry, so we high tailed it McDonald's since it was close. After the girls ate they went to the play ground and I sat and watched them, so thrilled with the simplicity of sliding and crawling around in some plastic tubes and eating deep fried potatoes and chicken. They were delighted and I felt truly blessed to have little ones. They remind you of being a kid yourself and not to be so serious all the time.
Hopefully after we move I will morph back into my old self a little so that we can have nutritious food and a clean home and some organization. I had been planning to post the pregnancy diet I was going to follow, but since I'm not really following it I decided to hold off.
*************New Topic***********************************
Ok ladies, I am trying to figure out what to do. Many of you know that I have had three c-sections and have never been in labor. I tried for a vbac the last time, but my doctor put me in a hard place and sort of forced me into the surgery at the end. (yeah thanks a lot) I have been researching it for awhile, but my only options are c-section or unassisted birth. Midwives generally need to be backed my doctors, and doctors don't like vbacs, at least not as many as I've had.
I am praying, but I haven't got the right message yet. I am supposed to go next week for my first appointment with my OB from before- I mainly want to make sure there's just one baby :) But my husband and I aren't sure what to do since we will be moving again and relocating. I have been reading lots and watching lots of videos, but still am not sure of the right plan. I have spoken with one midwife and she turned me down.
C-sections aren't all bad, but I remember every detail, and surgery and hospitals just aren't pleasant. It's not home. I know labor and birth are hard work and somewhat painful and it's all new to me. I've never had a contraction! But, surgery isn't an easy recovery and i've never been able to breastfeed because of the pain. (for some reason I bleed for awhile until my skin toughens up, which it never does because I can't be hurting in three places at once. The nurses kept telling me the babies were latched on perfectly, but dang it hurt!)
I really want to work hard on this one, c-section or not, because it's free and the best for the baby and mom. (maybe I could lose some weight!) I am having a terrible time here- how am I supposed to wait another 7 months to hold this baby!? I can hardly wait to see and touch it. I have been 'baby hungry' for a good while, can you tell?
Ok, I have more research to do.
January 3, 2009
A Special Day
Happy Birthday to Leiah! Six years ago today began my career as a mother. We just had no idea what was coming, LOL!
Miss Leiah has her two front teeth out for her sixth birthday. We will be having a family party tomorrow after church. She is such a sweetie.
I am so pleasantly surprised at all the good comments I've gotten about speaking in tongues. Thanks! I can't remember who the commenter was, but they were talking about being in a chaotic service and that it wasn't of God--I know exactly what you're talking about. I've visited other churches and other people's homes before when something just weren't right, you know? I knew what the Spirit felt like at church- there was sweetness and liberty there- and that wasn't what I was feeling in the other places. Some people just get confused about what it's all about- not wild experiences, but simple child-like faith in Jesus and His Word.
I have been so attacked, and I mean really attacked, by the weirdest cough ever! Weird as in I have no other symptoms at all- not even coughing up phlegm- just a tickly dry cough. And it keeps going and going. Last night I barely got any sleep! So my dear husband concocted me some homemade medicine and it's been helping. Speaking of the husband, God has been doing some major work in him. Before if I was ill, he would help me, but sort of in a 'barely get by' attitude. You know, watch the kids but forget the house and meals etc. Well, this morning after he made me the medicine, I stayed in bed for awhile and he cooked an awesome breakfast. I came in and helped a little and he had such a cheerful attitude. I cleaned it up, but the rest of the morning I laid on the couch and watched old cartoons with the kids.
Then, he packed up a picnic lunch and loaded the van with some stuff to move to the other house, went over and ate in the backyard. Then just he and I laid on our backs looking at the clouds and talking and resting while the girls picked us flowers (er, weeds). It was so warm and breezy today and so nice. It was like being newlyweds again :)
We went back home late in the afternoon, and he helped me get the girls down for naps and then I laid down a bit. I got a massive coughing fit and he ran and heated some more of the 'concoction' up and had me drink it and laid next to me for awhile. I must omit some details here ;)
Then he and I got dinner going- he did most of it. ( I just put french fries and buffalo wings on baking sheets and put them in the oven. Oh I did pour bbq sauce on top of miniature sausages and heat them too...LOL) After we stuffed ourselves and rested a bit, he brushed all the girls teeth and helped with bedtimes. Mr. Incredible!!! Since he has had some major battles with his body the last few years, he understands so much more what I'm going through. While I'm not at all glad that he suffered for awhile, it's nice that he understands on a better level now :)
I am so proud of him and love him so very much!
One other thing. I am doing well with this pregnancy except- I get to feeling very weak and drained if I don't eat very often. Now supposedly your digestion slows down while pregnant. If that's so, why do I get so weak from not eating? Blood sugar? Before I got sick with a virus, I was eating every two hours and combining proteins and carbs together. Did great. But, my brain is coated in fuzz right now and we are short on cash this week, so I don't have the presence of mind to prepare future mini meals like I should and don't have any convenience foods ready. (well I do have peanut butter and bread and high fiber cereal) I'm just curious if anyone knows why my body is doing this. It did it with the last two pregnancies too. I am taking vitamins and trying to get enough sleep; going outside helps energize me too.
Alright I gotta go. Have a good rest of the weekend!
January 2, 2009
Holy Ghost Fire
Today has been, challenging. I didn't sleep well because of a persistent tickly cough attacking me and it is SO hard to get myself going in the mornings. I may have to start taking vitamins at night and eating a snack before bed to get me going. I'm going to have to do something for next week when Leiah starts back to school.
I had a big list of things to do- mop, vacuum, laundry, cultures etc. So far I've mopped, washed a load of clothes, bathed the girls and cleaned up my room. We also had a picnic lunch outside since it's so warm and breezy and we all needed some sunshine and fresh air. I find myself getting more dissatisfied with the current house- it seems so small to me now. I can hardly wait for some more room to stretch out in. Maybe it's because we went from a North Pole look to a bare wall look. Everything seems quite ugly and plain to me now. Time to do some decorating I guess, at the other house.
Ok, about gifts of the Spirit. I don't have my Bible out right now, but I'll just expound on my knowledge and experience.
My whole entire life I have been going to 'full gospel' churches. Non-denominational, praise singing (as in no hymns) people dancing up front, people raising their hands to the Lord, shouting and being slain in the Spirit. Now, even as a child I was able to discern the spirits, and I could sense what was 'real' and what might be a little over the top. (I was saved at a very young age)
When I accepted Jesus as my Savior, the Holy Spirit made His abode in me. However, I think being filled or baptized in the Spirit is a bit different. By looking in Acts, you can see that the Apostles believed and were saved, but Jesus said to wait for the Comforter and I believe He also meant, wait for the power. Immediately when the Holy Spirit came as fire on them and they all began speaking in other tongues, Peter was able to preach a message to thousands. Before this, he always stuck his foot in his mouth. I have read a book about Smith Wigglesworth, an amazing British evangelist, that literally could not speak publicly. After he was filled with the Holy Spirit, he was able to speak to 20,000 people.
It's more of a matter of learning to yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to speak through you. Speaking in tongues is basically God praying through you- you are praying as the Spirit gives utterance, which is ultimately what God would pray, through you. A direct line of communication. Many times I just don't know how to pray in a particular situation, well, that's where speaking tongues comes in. He knows what to pray even if I don't, and can use my tongue to pray it, because the prayer of faith gets things done on the earth.
I have gotten Words from the Lord and even a prophesy once; but I've never really experienced the 'Holy Ghost Fire' of baptism with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Speaking in other tongues is the evidence to you and others that He really is in you. I just haven't fully yielded myself over- why? Because I don't want to be loud and get in front of people :) I love it when someone speaks out in tongues and another interprets it. It's just wonderful- because it is straight from the mouth of the Lord. I've seen the mellowest quietest people get up and run around the church and do a jig; I've seen old men jump and shout and laugh and laugh. It's simply the joy of the Lord. It's nothing to be afraid of, it's just the whole control thing.
I'm getting there though...I see the need and value for this to work in our lives. I am ready to move up to higher grounds so to speak. I hope that what I've said makes sense. If not, guess I'll need to do some studying on it.
I will mention this. I have been in some church services when it was VERY obvious it was not real. I got red flags all over my insides and felt very uneasy flight or fright feelings. He makes it very clear that you must leave now! You just know- He lets you know. And, it wasn't my church, just some I may have visited over the years.
I had a big list of things to do- mop, vacuum, laundry, cultures etc. So far I've mopped, washed a load of clothes, bathed the girls and cleaned up my room. We also had a picnic lunch outside since it's so warm and breezy and we all needed some sunshine and fresh air. I find myself getting more dissatisfied with the current house- it seems so small to me now. I can hardly wait for some more room to stretch out in. Maybe it's because we went from a North Pole look to a bare wall look. Everything seems quite ugly and plain to me now. Time to do some decorating I guess, at the other house.
Ok, about gifts of the Spirit. I don't have my Bible out right now, but I'll just expound on my knowledge and experience.
My whole entire life I have been going to 'full gospel' churches. Non-denominational, praise singing (as in no hymns) people dancing up front, people raising their hands to the Lord, shouting and being slain in the Spirit. Now, even as a child I was able to discern the spirits, and I could sense what was 'real' and what might be a little over the top. (I was saved at a very young age)
When I accepted Jesus as my Savior, the Holy Spirit made His abode in me. However, I think being filled or baptized in the Spirit is a bit different. By looking in Acts, you can see that the Apostles believed and were saved, but Jesus said to wait for the Comforter and I believe He also meant, wait for the power. Immediately when the Holy Spirit came as fire on them and they all began speaking in other tongues, Peter was able to preach a message to thousands. Before this, he always stuck his foot in his mouth. I have read a book about Smith Wigglesworth, an amazing British evangelist, that literally could not speak publicly. After he was filled with the Holy Spirit, he was able to speak to 20,000 people.
It's more of a matter of learning to yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to speak through you. Speaking in tongues is basically God praying through you- you are praying as the Spirit gives utterance, which is ultimately what God would pray, through you. A direct line of communication. Many times I just don't know how to pray in a particular situation, well, that's where speaking tongues comes in. He knows what to pray even if I don't, and can use my tongue to pray it, because the prayer of faith gets things done on the earth.
I have gotten Words from the Lord and even a prophesy once; but I've never really experienced the 'Holy Ghost Fire' of baptism with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Speaking in other tongues is the evidence to you and others that He really is in you. I just haven't fully yielded myself over- why? Because I don't want to be loud and get in front of people :) I love it when someone speaks out in tongues and another interprets it. It's just wonderful- because it is straight from the mouth of the Lord. I've seen the mellowest quietest people get up and run around the church and do a jig; I've seen old men jump and shout and laugh and laugh. It's simply the joy of the Lord. It's nothing to be afraid of, it's just the whole control thing.
I'm getting there though...I see the need and value for this to work in our lives. I am ready to move up to higher grounds so to speak. I hope that what I've said makes sense. If not, guess I'll need to do some studying on it.
I will mention this. I have been in some church services when it was VERY obvious it was not real. I got red flags all over my insides and felt very uneasy flight or fright feelings. He makes it very clear that you must leave now! You just know- He lets you know. And, it wasn't my church, just some I may have visited over the years.
January 1, 2009
The New Year
Happy New Year to everyone! A brand new year- all the days that haven't been lived in yet are just waiting out there. 2009 seems to be a critical year for many. I know a lot of people are feeling trepidation about the new president and economy problems we are facing. All the more reason to be praying for our leaders huh?
For us 2009 holds lots of expectations- we know we shall be relocating at some point and we will have a new child. I will have two school aged children and two preschoolers. Life will change a lot next fall :) I'm sure everyone has made goals for the coming year. I'll share a few of mine.
1. We are moving back to the other house we lived in; it's bigger and will cost us next to nothing and the first goal is to move with as little clutter as possible. REDUCE the STUFF!!!
2. Eat nutrient dense foods 95% of the time, adhering pretty strictly to what the baby needs for growth and not so much what I happen to be craving :)
3. Begin and maintain an exercise routine- even if my belly is growing at least I can shape up the other parts of me.
4. Potty training...how glorious it would be to have all of them trained before the new one gets here! I might even have a diaper break for awhile...
5. Training the girls to become more self sufficient- doing things for themselves and with cheerful attitudes. (any tips on that?)
6. Become stronger in my faith and more filled with the Word of God. I am also seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit i.e. filled with the evidence of speaking in tongues. I've been surrounded by it all my life but it's never happened to me, probably because I've always been a little afraid of it, lol. ***not looking to debate this topic. there really isn't anything to debate because it's Biblical; any rude comments will be deleted***
I guess that's it. I also want to do lots of sewing projects, but we'll see. I want to start sewing up some jumpers for the kiddies and maternity dresses for me. Then I want to do some home decorating, which may include sewing curtains and bedding for a boy/girl nursery. Sarah and the baby may be sharing a room, and if we have a boy I want it to work for both of them. I am thinking of trying to find some cute vintage 'Dick and Jane' fabric and trimming it with yellow and white gingham and some white pom pom ball trim. (or whatever you call it) What I have in my mind would be really cute.
We started moving some things over to the other house today. I am about to go surfing for help on decluttering and downsizing. If I find anything really good I'll post the links.
For us 2009 holds lots of expectations- we know we shall be relocating at some point and we will have a new child. I will have two school aged children and two preschoolers. Life will change a lot next fall :) I'm sure everyone has made goals for the coming year. I'll share a few of mine.
1. We are moving back to the other house we lived in; it's bigger and will cost us next to nothing and the first goal is to move with as little clutter as possible. REDUCE the STUFF!!!
2. Eat nutrient dense foods 95% of the time, adhering pretty strictly to what the baby needs for growth and not so much what I happen to be craving :)
3. Begin and maintain an exercise routine- even if my belly is growing at least I can shape up the other parts of me.
4. Potty training...how glorious it would be to have all of them trained before the new one gets here! I might even have a diaper break for awhile...
5. Training the girls to become more self sufficient- doing things for themselves and with cheerful attitudes. (any tips on that?)
6. Become stronger in my faith and more filled with the Word of God. I am also seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit i.e. filled with the evidence of speaking in tongues. I've been surrounded by it all my life but it's never happened to me, probably because I've always been a little afraid of it, lol. ***not looking to debate this topic. there really isn't anything to debate because it's Biblical; any rude comments will be deleted***
I guess that's it. I also want to do lots of sewing projects, but we'll see. I want to start sewing up some jumpers for the kiddies and maternity dresses for me. Then I want to do some home decorating, which may include sewing curtains and bedding for a boy/girl nursery. Sarah and the baby may be sharing a room, and if we have a boy I want it to work for both of them. I am thinking of trying to find some cute vintage 'Dick and Jane' fabric and trimming it with yellow and white gingham and some white pom pom ball trim. (or whatever you call it) What I have in my mind would be really cute.
We started moving some things over to the other house today. I am about to go surfing for help on decluttering and downsizing. If I find anything really good I'll post the links.