Beach Bums

July 8-12 we went to my sister's beach house in Seagrove Beach, FL (which is for sale if anyone is interested!). Here's a quick glimpse at the priceless memories we made...for more pics, I can send the snapfish album. Enjoy! :)

You've got to love those soft, white, sandy beaches!

Anybody seen the weight room?

Did you see that plane? (Scott's fave pic)

My handsome boys!! (My fave pic!)

Just the three of us (plus some serious ocean wind!)

Entertainment for the ride...a plethora of Disney/Pixar films! (and, of course, Muppets!!)

OUCH!
Just kidding...the only thing this jellyfish touched was our net.

Lookout ocean life, here he comes!

The cutest beach bum in town!

Carter's favorite pass-time...

Gettin' Jiggy!

Carter's new favorite song is Will Smith's "Gettin' Jiggy With It." Here's a quick clip of him showing off some of his dance moves this morning. Don't be shy...you know you want to dance, too! :)

Family Fun!

We hope you all had a happy Fourth of July! We spent the day lounging around, and then we headed to Ross & Ally's for Ribs/BBQ, Carter's first water balloon fight, and fireworks!

Yesterday, Mimi, Don-Don, Ally, Brax, Addie, Carter & I headed up to visit my grandmother, Nanny, for the day. We ate, played marbles & cards, ate some more, played outside, and ate even more! But, I think Carter's favorite part of the day was bowling in Nanny's kitchen. He'd seen bowling on TV and talked about it all week. What a thrill to actually get to try it out himself! :)

Our own sugar babies...Carter & Adaline

So serious!

And they all fall down...okay some of them.

Splishin' and a Splashin'!

Today, Carter and I met his buddies Rosa Grace and Autumn (and their mommies) :) at the Splash Pad for some summertime fun! Here are a few pics & a video...

Enjoy!


On your mark, get set, GO!

The three amigos!

Carter & Rosa Grace

Thank You...Thumbkin?

Oh, how I wish I'd had the video camera handy when putting Carter to bed tonight! He was singing songs (days of the week, Itsy Bitsy Spider, God our Father) which always brings a smile to my face, but this one was my favorite...

"Where is Thumbkin? Where is Thumbkin?
Here I am, Here I am!
We bow our heads and thank you,
We bow our heads and thank you,
Thumbkin, Thumbkin."

I guess it doesn't hurt to thank Thumbkin...I mean, without our thumbs things would be a lot more challenging! :)

Coming tomorrow...Carter has a date...make that TWO dates! We're meeting Rosa Grace and Autumn at the Splash Pad for a picnic and fun! I'll try to get pics up tomorrow night...

Say What?

I just ran to the grocery and when checking out realized I'd forgotten my reusable bags. While I'm not the best at being "green," I am trying to be more conscious of ways I can help take care of this beautiful spinning ball we call home.
So...when the bagger began putting my few items into multiple plastic bags, I stopped him and asked if they could just help load them back into my cart. No bags necessary. You should have seen the crazy looks I was given! The checker asked multiple times if I was sure I didn't need/want bags...to the point I wanted to turn and shout, "NO!!!"...but I didn't. Instead I just kept replying, "No thank you," then proceeded to load everything into my own cart. I guess the bagger thought, "no bags, no bagger." :)
Anyway, I got this idea from emails I get from a great website coolpeoplecare.org
I first found out about this site by participating in the Crop Walk (see past blogs). The site provides many ways for you to get involved in caring and volunteering where you live. I subscribe to the Cool Moms Care daily emails that are 99 words of ways to care in just 5 minutes! If you get a chance, click on the link and check it out! In the meantime, be "cool" and use reusable bags or enjoy the crazy looks and try loading things into your cart without bags! :)

Centennial Park

Today, Carter and I met my dear friend, Miss Leigh, at Centennial Park to feed the ducks, have a picnic, and play "golf." Here are a few precious moments we enjoyed on this glorious day! :)
(Can you tell how I spent Carter's naptime today?? Not much of an "editor," but I hope you enjoy!)

Happy Birthday, Mimi!

Tomorrow is a special day in our family as we celebrate Mimi's ___ Birthday! You'll just have to guess how young she is! :) Here's a special birthday message from Carter. We love you, Mimi!

Golf Outing

Today, we went golfing with Don-Don, Braxton, and Adaline. This is some "rough" footage...totally unedited and choppy, but hopefully it will let you see what fun our little guy had. He loves those "real golf clubs" Don-Don gave him! :) I'll try to get more fancy with these in the future, but since it's getting late I'm not much in the mood for editing/adding music. :)

Happy Father's Day!

It was a priceless sound...Carter walking quietly from his bedroom to the kitchen and then shouting "Happy Father's Day!" :) What a sweet pea! He sure does love his daddy!

One of Scott's gifts was Carter's footprint framed with the following poem...
A Father's Role

On this paper you will find
some tiny footprints that are one of a kind.
They 're here to remind you the role you play
in the foundation that you lay.
God has given you this great treasure.
Teach him right and share his pleasure.
He learns from you in every way
so be careful of the words you say.
Hold him tight and calm his fears.
When he cries wipe away his tears.
In all these things he feels your love.
and learns to trust the Lord above.
by Carolyn Warvel

I am thankful for "my boys" and that Carter has such a wonderful, loving father. I love you, Scott. I am grateful for his uncle and grandfathers as well, as all of these men play an important role in C's life.
Happy Father's Day to you all!!!

Funny phrases...

Time for another edition of Carter quotes. I just love the funny things Carter says!

• Instead of kitchen, he says chicken.
  
• Instead of magazine, he says mazagine (sounds French!).
• As a blessing/prayer, Carter loves to sing "God our Fa-tha" (sounding like he's part of the mafia). :)
• Lately, Carter's been saying, "When I was my age, I..." He even told his cousin Addie, "When I was your age..." (she'll be 8 next month).
• This one cracks me up, but my apologies in advance. It's just too funny not to share...We've started to introduce Carter to the idea of potty training. One of the first few times I let him sit on the potty seat, he said, "Look Mommy, it's a Christmas tree!" Never heard it called that before! :)
  

Art Day with Mommy

Today Carter and I "beat the heat" by staying indoors for a fun art day! We painted with watercolors, made lunch sack puppets, made stick puppets, used markers and crayons, and altogether made a big mess! Here you can see his first collage art and his first watercolor painting. What fun! :)

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands...

In my quiet time this week, I've been reading Paul's letters. I didn't set out with an agenda, but I decided to read from the NASB. My ribbon marker had been left at the beginning of Colossians, so that's where I started.

Chapter 1, verse 17 struck me..."For He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." I find peace in knowing that God goes before me. And for where I am personally, I find peace in the fact that He holds all things together...but that particular phrase also brings some funny imagery to mind.

I know God is our Creator. He created ALL things...and nothing exists apart from His Sovereign plan (All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. John 1:3). This verse sparked the imagery in my head of the creation of the universe, of earth, of man, of woman, of all that IS...God not only formed it all, but "in Him all things hold together." This is the part that made me chuckle at the absurdity of my train of thought...what if He let go? I began to picture every atom making up every single thing suddenly flying solo through space...whoa.

Absurd, I know, but it made me all the more grateful that we have a God who is faithful, who does not forget us, and who literally holds all things together...He will never let us go.

Happy Anniversary, Mimi & Don-Don!

Today is my parents' 40th wedding anniversary. We celebrated as a family on Friday, but they are soaking up some Florida sun today...
We miss you guys, but want to say, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! We love you!

Four firsts...no pictures :(

So, over the course of the past week Carter has had four fun "firsts," and to no one's surprise this is the week the camera decided to go ka-put. (sp?)

• On Tuesday, Carter got his first set of real golf clubs that are just his size (hand-me-downs from his cousins, and good as new!). He got to go to the real golf course with Don-Don and Braxton--and Mommy just along for the ride--and putt, drive the golf cart, and hit balls into the lake. Favorite moment--Carter took four swings at one ball and still couldn't hit it, so he just picked it up and threw it into the lake! :)
• On Wednesday, we had our first adventure in the blow-up pool in the backyard. Water was cold as ice, but we didn't care-it was 92 degrees at 5pm!
  
• On Thursday, Carter had his first trip to the Nashville Zoo with Mommy. Again, 92 degrees...but this time we cared! Ask Carter what his favorite animal was...you may get elephant, giraffe, or monkey...he loved them all. Then, we came home to swim with cousins Brax & Addie and Aunt Ally. It was his first time in the big pool this summer. He's unafraid and wanted to try to float on his own. Looks like there are swim lessons in our future!
  
• Finally, last night Scott & I took Carter to his first Sounds baseball game. They're a AAA team for the Brewers. His daddy treated him to ice cream and a "sharp" baseball cap (that's his own description), while mommy felt like I traumatized him by making him sit through the fireworks. He still had a great time, though. In fact, he slept with his new cap and his baseball glove...inseparable. :)

Guess the pictures of these fun times will just have to remain locked in our minds....wish we had real pics to share!

Only in Nashvegas...

So as I drove to the mall today, I was stopped at a red light and a motorcycle went zooming past with several bags and a guitar case strapped to the back. The sight of it just made me chuckle and I thought to myself, "Only in Nashville..."

There are many sites/happenings in this town that make it so unique...Here are a couple of my other personal "Only in Nashville" moments from the past few days:

• Only in Nashville...will you eat at Mexicali Grille and see Kenny Chesney sitting with a buddy at the bar enjoying a meal with no one bothering him. (That was Sunday.)
  
• Only in Nashville...will you be in a place called the capital of country music, yet it's easy to spot a tourist because they're the ones in cowboy hats and boots...few of locals are down with that. It's just not how we roll... :)
• Only in Nashville...will you pull up to the mall, run in to grab one thing, and find yourself in the middle of the next Hannah Montana movie (that was today). Don't look for me on the big screen, though. I just walked through the store where they were shooting a couple of scenes...if anything, I'd be a blur in the background. Still cool to see what all goes into a movie, though!

Fun times...I love this town.

The Rain

As I write, we are having one of those 20% chance thunderstorms (that's now spanned a few hours). I'm in a reflective mood, so it got me thinking...Even when there seems to be little chance of rain or storm in life, we know that at some point it will rain.

Life is full of "pop up" storms. Road blocks appear in places we never expected. Hills turn into mountains whose summit seems unreachable. The valleys at times seem so deep we are engulfed by them. Life’s challenges are inevitable.

But for those who follow Christ, ours is a hope that calms the storm, moves the road block, gives us strength to press on and up the mountain, and lifts us out of the pit. Our hope is built on JESUS. It is a hope that cannot be replicated in any thing or anyone other than Christ.

No matter what your day has been like, or where you are personally, I pray you too can find comfort in knowing that God is faithful and in control...He is the one who holds the storm in place...He is the one with the power to calm it. While it's hard to understand, He sometimes brings the storm to require your dependence upon Him...He is the one who can see through the storm to the rebuilding and regrowth that will take place...He is the one who can see the benefit of the storm.

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

First Ambulance Ride

...and hopefully the last!

When I picked Carter up on Thursday from daycare, his teacher told me she thought he was having an allergic reaction to the sunscreen because his eyes were really bloodshot. His eyes were bloodshot and skin a little red, but I thought it odd since we've used the same sunscreen since he was 6 months old.

By the time we got home, Carter had welps on his neck and what, at first, looked like large mosquito bites surrounded by hives forming on his chest and back. I went ahead and called Doc because it was so strange looking. They advised Benadryl and a bath. By the time we finished the bath, he was covered literally head to toe with welps so large that it looked as though his belly button was going to push out the opposite way. For obvious reasons, I started to get very nervous. I'd never seen anything like this and knew he must've eaten something with peanuts or was having a reaction to a food we didn't know he was allergic to.

After calling the daycare to find out what he'd been given (which as it turns out included M&Ms which have the peanut warning on them), Carter got a strange look on his face and began throwing up. As soon as Scott got home, Carter was starting to look better. But within about a 5 minute period he went back to large welps.

We took him to Vandy's walk in clinic. While there, he threw up again, became very pale and gray, and was limp in my arms. Scott went in the hall to express our need for help, and the minute the doctor saw him she turned around and told someone to call 911. Thank goodness for Scott's calm nature and reassurance. After what was already an emotional day, the quick pace response and thought of Carter needing emergency care was a bit overwhelming.

While waiting for the ambulance, they gave Carter oxygen, checked his heart rate and oxygen levels in his blood, and asked us a million questions. Carter was such a trooper! It was just so hard to see him unresponsive at times and lethargic. Throughout the ambulance ride, they continued to monitor heart rate, administered oxygen, tested blood sugar, and helped me try to keep him awake.

He was taken to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, and at that point it felt like "hurry up and wait." Thankfully, the benadryl really kicked in and he became much more himself. Carter's Aunt Ally came to wait with us which also helped perk him up a bit. :)

After seeing the doctor, Carter was given another large dose of Benadryl, steroids, and pepcid. He'll continue the steroids for 4 days along with Benadryl to be sure he doesn't relapse. In the meantime, we've been in communication with the daycare and I intend to meet with the director to talk about how we can be SURE this doesn't happen again...to Carter or any other child. Carter will also be going to an allergist next week for further testing regarding food allergies.

We are so grateful that Carter is okay! It was quite a long and somewhat traumatic experience. We are so fortunate it wasn't any worse, but we also feel compelled to help in educating others...specifically, anyone who takes care of Carter. We just don't want him to ever experience this again. :)

Night-Night!

Each night as I take Carter down to put him to bed, he gives Scott a big hug, kiss, "knucks," and then Scott usually says "Goodnight, Buddy!"

Carter now replies to that with his own nicknames for Daddy....here are his latest:
"Night-Night Bubby!"
"Goodnight Sweet Cheeks!" (this is echoing his daddy)
"Goodnight Another Cheek!" (this is one he came up with on his own)
"Goodnight Puffy!"
And my personal favorite....
"Goodnight Muffins!" :)

That said, it's time for bed! More to come...

Still here...

Hello everyone!
My apologies to our family out of state for the sporatic (sp?) blogs lately (and over the next few weeks). I'll pick back up once school's out...

For now, here's a funny moment from putting Carter to bed tonight:
Bless his sweet heart, he continues to struggle with severe congestion and cough which has resulted in a lack of sleep (for Carter and me!). That said, I'm trying to exercise a little extra patience with him. Bedtimes have been awful the last few nights. But tonight, I resided to just laying on his bed and letting him sit up to fuss it out if he needed to. He didn't cry much, but he did keep whining "take me to the chair" repeatedly. This means, he wanted to snuggle in our living room. Knowing that that could only result in his wanting to play/read, I laid there still and asked him once again to lay down.
His response? "1, 2, 3..." (What is he doing?, I'm thinking) "...4, 5..." (could he be counting the stars in his room?) "You go to timeout." (Guess he's heard that one before!)
How could I not chuckle? I asked him why I should go to timeout and it was, as I had expected, because I didn't take him to the chair. Bad mommy...ha, ha!

Happy Birthday, Nana!

Carter's Nana (Scott's mom) is celebrating a special birthday this Saturday...here's his version of "Happy Birthday" just for you, Nana! We love you!!!

Swing, Batter, Swing!

The updates may be a bit scatter-brained and less in quantity until the summer. We've got a lot going on--between the book I'm working on and wrapping up the school year, things are getting a bit crazy.
Anyway--I wanted to record this momentous occasion, as Carter made contact with the ball today! We "play baseball" sometimes, but it usually results in a lot of chasing after the ball. Tonight, Carter had his Tigers bat out ready to play. I counted "1, 2, swing!" and he hit the ball! Not just once, but several times. It was like something just clicked. I'm so proud! :)

Quote of the Day

This one is for our folks...
While eating dinner/hanging out, Carter randomly said, "My grandparents are special." We agree! We love you!

Carnton Plantation

Well, it's been a busy week...which you could probably tell be the lack of posts. :)
Anyway, Scott's cousin Sarah is in town this weekend so today we decided to go out to tour Carnton Plantation, which became a make-shift hospital during the Civil War and the Battle of Franklin . Carter made it through about the first two rooms of the tour before it became necessary to head back outside. Oh well, at least I know how the story ends...there was tremendous bloodshed and the North won. Maybe Scott can fill me in on the rest being the history buff that he is (and the lack of history stored in my own brain!).
Here are some pics from our "tour."

Our Little Rock Star

Enjoy! :)

CROP Walked!

Well,  I completed my 5K on Sunday (although I think I actually walked 5 miles...long story, I can fill you in if you actually want the details).    As it turns out, this was only the sixth annual CROP walk here; however, they take place all over the country.

I just wanted to let you know that with your help, I was able to raise $225 in just 7 days!  WOW!  Thank you so much for your help and support.  I'm hoping to participate again next year, but would love to have a big group walking with me. :)

In the meantime...check out coolpeoplecare.org for ideas every day on how you can help out in the community.  Thanks again for your support!

BEE Movie

If you didn't see "Bee Movie," you should.  It's a hoot!

With it being yet another rainy, yucky day, we had decided to rent a movie we could watch with Carter.  When the one we wanted wasn't in, I opted to check out "Bee Movie" which turned out to be an excellent choice.  It's one of those that the kiddos can enjoy, but there are plenty of jokes for the parents too.  (Just FYI, it is rated PG.)

Carter looked like such a big boy as he sat in his big blue chair with his bowl of popcorn and cup of juice watching in amazement and laughing at the silly bees!  Afterward, he started running around, flapping his "wings" and buzzing like a bee, asking to watch the bees again.  :)  I'm up for it! :)

What's CROP?

Just a quick FYI for any curious minds regarding the walk this weekend!

"CROP" stands for "Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty."

There is so much to be done globally to fight poverty, but I am grateful for the opportunity to also participate in something that helps those in need locally.

Thanks again for all of your support...I've almost met my goal!  Only $50 away...hooray! :)

Here are a few quick facts from Second Harvest to help put in perspective just how truly helpful your support has been...

Did you know that $5 will buy 15 pounds of food? 

Did you know that Tennessee ranks the 7th highest state in food insecurity in the nation?

Did you know that in Tennessee, more than 21% of children live in food insecure homes?

Did you know that 605,830 people were served throughout TN last year through feeding programs?

Did you know that $1 equals 4 meals through Second Harvest? Amazing!

One last thing...

Next week, April 10, Second Harvest is having "Skip Lunch, Feed a Bunch."  You can participate by skipping lunch and sending them the money you would have spent...or you can participate in spirit and still send a donation.  For more info, visit secondharvestnashville.org

CROP Walk Update

I'm truly excited about this weekend's walk to help those in need.  First, I want to say a HUGE thank you to those who have shown your support both financially and through prayer.  I have already been blessed in anticipation of this event, though that may sound silly to you.  It is amazing to have others' support for this walk and for the fight against hunger.

I invite you to pause a moment and consider our blessings...

I have something to eat anytime my stomach growls. I don't worry about whether or not the food I eat is contaminated in any way, nor do I worry about whether or not there will be a next meal.  In fact, both at home and out to eat there is often excess on my plate.  Without feeling a true hunger pain, the majority of the time I know I fail to truly appreciate the blessing of having such nourishment.  While we bless the food and thank the Lord for it, I know I still take my full pantry for granted.  I hope that through this walk and future participation with Second Harvest that I may in some small way help make a difference in the lives of others...and that I may not take what I have for granted.  

Finally...I want to let you know that I am only $85 away from reaching my goal for the weekend! Thank you for your support and prayers!  It means more than you know!

Later, Home Slice!

Our nephew Braxton and niece Adaline love to teach Carter new "tricks" (as does his Uncle Ross :)..but I won't detail that one!).

Anyway, today after school, Carter and I went to their house to hang out/play for a little while.  In the past, the kids have taught Carter to say things like, "Peace dude!"  So tonight, I was quite amused as they tried to teach him to say, "Later, home slice!" 

Carter didn't have a clue what it meant, so instead of repeating them he came up with his own couple of phrases..."Later, cheese slice!" and "Later, apple slice!"  

For the grandparents, the translation is "Bye!"  :)

CROP Hunger Walk

I have decided to participate in the CROP Hunger Walk that takes place Sunday, April 6.  This walk benefits organizations that fight hunger on a local and global scale.  Specifically, it benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank, Nashville's Table, Luke 14:12, and MANNA.  To find out more,or if you would like to join me for the walk, visit nashvillecropwalk.org.

If you would like to make a financial donation, you can do so by going to the website and clicking on "Sponsor Participant" on the left side of the web page.  Enter my name, and it will take you to my donation page where you can directly contribute online.  My goal is $250 by next Sunday.

Even if you can't contribute financially, your prayer support for the walk and these organizations is greatly appreciated!

I'll keep you posted on my efforts! :)

Egg Hunt!

I promise to add pictures to this post tonight or tomorrow...

Carter got to have an egg hunt at his school yesterday.  I was so proud of him because instead of staying right by me the whole time, he took off and started grabbing eggs!  

Afterward, I stuck around to help his class dye eggs...that was something I just HAD to see!  No pictures of that one, though...but you can probably imagine the chaos...

12 toddlers diving toward an open container of  hard-boiled eggs, then tossing them into cups full of colored water, most of which ended up on the table or their clothes rather than actually sticking to the eggs themselves.  

If you ask Carter about how we dyed eggs, his own words describe it perfectly, "We splish, splashed!"  :)

Some moms may be out shopping for new Easter outfits tomorrow!

The "Rooster" Bunny

nxjankajxkaJXJA  (That's Carter's message...below is the translation.)  :)

I was talking to Carter on Saturday, and he started saying that the "Rooster Bunny" was coming.  Here are a few pics of him playing the part!  Enjoy! :)  

Quote of the Day

It was raining this morning, and when I asked Carter if he heard it he said, "It's raining and raining because the sun won't get up!"  :)  Pretty good thought process, I think! 

I promise to blog more throughout the week, but in the meantime click on the link to Angeline's blog and see Rosa Grace's message to Carter (dated March 13).  The other day when he asked to see her picture, Carter said, "There's Rosie Grace.  She's beautiful."  He also says she's his best friend.  On Angeline's blog you can read and watch Rosie's "Thank you."  Too sweet!

We're goin' DANCIN', baby!

That's right...our Belmont Bruins made it to the big dance!  Tonight, Belmont won the Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament beating Jacksonville 79 to 61 (part of a 13 game winning streak, by the way and one of only 4 teams in the country on that roll right now!).  To celebrate the win, Carter and I did our own dance in front of the TV.  He likes to "cha-cha," and it's a site to see! :)  To support the team, he's also got his Belmont jersey on over his PJs...not the best fashion move, but pretty cute!  I'm sure it'll be washed and worn many times throughout March Madness.

Go Belmont!  B-E-L-M-O-N-T...GRRRR!

Let it Snow!

Last night, we got the most snow we've had in 5 years!  (Which is pretty crazy considering that just last weekend I was in short sleeves w/ the windows open!)

This was Carter's first chance to experience playing in the snow.  We really talked up the fact that we'd be able to build a snowman, but as it turned out the snow was too powdery to really pack together.  But that didn't stop Carter from having a blast!  We made a "snow-mound" instead of a snowman, chased each other through the snow, made a snow angel, and even tasted a little snow.  When we came inside to warm up, we enjoyed hot chocolate...well, I did anyway.  I think Carter enjoyed the marshmallows more than the cocoa!  Here are a few pics from our adventures this morning...enjoy!

Feeling Better

Quick update on Carter...He is officially no longer contagious, but will remain on an antibiotic for 5 more days.  He is more himself today than he has been in weeks!  It is so good to finally see him running around, shooting hoops, laughing, playing, and talking up a storm.  

He's been saying plenty of funny things lately, but last night was especially so.  We were all at the dinner table, and as soon as Carter finished drinking his milk he looked at me with a sly look and lift in his voice as he said, "Mommy--I've got a present for you."  

For my fellow mommies of toddlers, no need to explain what the "present" was and what made his comment so funny...for anyone else who hasn't figured it out, there was a "present" waiting in his diaper!  Too funny!  I secretly wonder if Daddy has taught him to say that!  Boys will be boys!  :)

Flu Be GONE!

For the last 48-72 hours, I've been disinfecting our house from top to bottom.  Carter officially has the flu and on top of the flu he has "H-flu" (a separate bacterial infection).   I've even disinfected the mattresses!  Thanks to the warm weather today, I was also able to air out the house by opening the windows.  Amazing how much better just that can make you feel!

Last night, in his now usual fashion, Carter came into the room in the middle of the night so I said, "Carter, it's the middle of the night.  You need to go back to sleep."  His usual response is, Okay," then we head to his room to put him back in bed.  But last night he said "I know, Mommy, but I'm just sick."  Pitiful thing!  

For those of you that pray, please pray for our sweet boy to get well soon.  He has been sick for three weeks now.   Please also pray that Scott and I will stay well.  Doc's already got me on Tamiflu just as a safeguard since I've had constant close contact with Carter.  We'll keep you posted!

Love to all~ Sarah

Benefit Concerts

Just an FYI...

Our church, Fellowship Bible Church, will be hosting two concerts.  One this Sunday, March 2, and one next Sunday, March 9.  Each will benefit victims of the recent Tennessee tornadoes.  Check out the church's site for more info (click on the question mark above this message).  Artists include Michael W. Smith, Christy Nockels, Bebo Norman, Jaci Velasquez, and more...

Thanks...

I think it's time to add to my resume, "experience as a nurse."  Carter continues to be sick.  He's had the stomach bug, followed immediately by bronchiolitis, has remained congested, and this weekend has had fevers in excess of 104 degrees.  He's so pitiful, and it's hard as a mommy to feel like there's nothing you can do...

Anyway, while this happened a couple of weeks ago, I just wanted to share what a precious heart our son has...While he was suffering from the stomach bug, I was up with Carter throughout the night.  At one point, I changed his diaper 4 times in less than 45 minutes.  We were up and down, up and down. 

The last time in that series of diaper changes just as I was trying to summon the energy to lift Carter out of the bed, he said to me, "I'm sorry mommy."  My heart broke...of course, I told him he had no reason to be sorry and that mommy wanted to take care of him and do whatever he needed.  Once his diaper was changed and we settled back into the bed, Carter said, "Thank you very much."  A tear began to roll down my cheek, and those 4 words had made every minute of lost sleep more than worth it.

Rock Star

Check out our little rock star...his hair was like this when he pulled off his hat.  It was probably a result of static electricity, but I think he can really pull this look off! :)

Jump!

for my love... (you know you were thinking it too!)

Carter's latest pass-time...

using the couch as a trampoline. 

What he said as he jumped tonight...

"I'm all boy!"   No doubt about that!

I hope he'll always have the courage he shows as he freely bounces about...though I'm sure there'll be a day that "No more monkeys jumping on the bed" will be a teaching point.  In the meantime, we'll let him jump and enjoy the risk.

Girl or Boy?

Apparently, they've been talking about the difference between boys and girls at Carter's school lately.  How do I know, you ask?  Well, lately Carter's been saying things to me like, "Let's play basketball, girl" or "Come on, girl, let's play."  He means no disrespect, and I find it kind of humorous...but here's the best yet...

On the way to meet my parents for lunch today, we passed BGA.  Here's the dialogue that ensued:

Carter:  Mommy's school.  You teach girls there. 

Me: Yes, but I teach boys too.  What's mommy?

Carter:  A girl.

Me:  What's daddy?

Carter: He's a boy, too.

Me (attempting to see if he truly gets the concept):  What's Don-Don?

Carter: Crazy! 

We love you, Don-Don! :)

Go Belmont!

Today we took Carter to his first Belmont game.  As it turned out, it was also Belmont's homecoming, so we came home with plenty to remember the day by (like the little ball Carter is holding).  We sat on the home side, and Carter had the perfect seat to watch the drummer in the pep band.  In fact, we think he watched the drummer as much as (if not more than) the game!  He did, however, manage to cheer saying, "Go Bruins!"  But of course one of the first things he asked was to go down to the floor with the "big boys" to play.  We didn't think we'd get to see the whole game, but as it turned out we did...well two of us did.  Carter fell asleep half way through the second half.  To his credit, we're amazed he made it that long since he'd been too excited to take a nap beforehand.  

There are sure to be plenty of games in his future! :)

For all you sports fans-final score:  

Belmont 79, UNF 56   GO BRUINS!!!

Church or Work?

We had the pleasure of serving with Kyle Goen at FBC.  While there, we learned so much through his leadership, friendship and teaching.  With Scott serving in full-time ministry and having a son of our own, we have followed Kyle's example in emphasizing to Carter that during the week daddy goes to "work" and on Sat/Sun we go to church.

Now when we pull up to the church on Sunday, Carter says, "Church--sing Hallelujah!"  But despite our greatest efforts to help Carter understand that this is also daddy's office, when we pull up to the building where Scott's office is Carter says, "Daddy's house!"   

It probably feels that way to Scott some weeks...   :)

The Encourager

Yesterday as I dusted and vacuumed the house, Carter followed me around saying, "Good job, Mommy!"  Is it too early to think he may have the gift of encouragement? :)

Carter & Rosa Grace

Carter had his buddy Rosa Grace over for a playdate today.  They played so well together, and Angeline (Rosa's mommy) and I had a great time catching up and laughing at all the funny things they do and say! Here are a few pics for you to enjoy including Carter waiting at the window watching for their car and the "good-bye kiss." Too sweet!

For Nana and Papa

This one is for my in-laws, but all are welcome to read...I know it must be difficult not to be closer to Carter, so these are a few funny things he has said/done lately.  I hope it'll bring a smile to your face!

• Even still, though we've read it a zillion times, when asked "What did Noah build?," Carter turns with a grin and answers "Sandcastles!"  :)  Hey, after all that time on the boat, who wouldn't want to play in the sand?
• His latest saying, "Hello, Detroit!" while in his rock star stance with his hand in the air and guitar slung over his shoulder playing Guitar Hero 3 with Daddy.  At the end of the song, in the same pose, he says "Thank you, good night!"
• Perhaps the first part came from a story at school, but when he sees a picture of an alligator, he says "See that alligator, sneaky alligator, snap that monkey right outta his tree.  Momma called the doctor and the doctor said, 'No more monkeys jumping on his bed.'" (Obviously two stories blending together!)
• He's a streaker!  Scott got some funny video of Carter getting ready for bath time as he ran around saying, "Naked booty!"
• Carter has learned to say his own prayers at night.  A couple of nights ago his prayer was "Thank you for mommy and daddy.  Thank you for balloons.  Thank you for Elmo.  Thank you for sleeps.  Amen."  (Amen to the sleeps!)

I know there are so many other things I could include, but these were the first few that came to my mind.  Love you! ~Sarah

Lemon Meringue Pie

Have you ever watched your grandmother cook?  What a generation of women.  

My own grandmother, Nanny, lost her mother at the age of 12, (right, Dad?), and though she wasn't the oldest she had to drop out of school and became responsible for the motherly duties for her many brothers and sisters.  Instead of running down to the local Viking Store or picking up the latest fad for cookbooks, she learned to cook by trial.  And boy, can she cook?!?!?  Not only that, but she remembers everyone's favorite dishes and, despite our trying to convince her otherwise, she usually has each of them prepared upon our arrival.  For dad, it's her pot roast for supper and "Nanny Biscuits" with country ham for breakfast.  For my mom & sister, it's her pimento cheese.  For me,  fruit salad and ranch dip w/ veggies.  For ALL of us, it's her unbelievable iced sugar cookies, chocolate cupcakes, "Nanny Bread" and 2 definite crowd-pleasers, fried chicken and spaghetti (which I don't know I'll ever be able to replicate).  Are you getting hungry yet?

I need and want to spend some time in the kitchen with my grandmother while she still feels up to the task.  What an invaluable cooking lesson (not to mention life lesson) awaits in her kitchen!

Fortunately, I had the great pleasure of cooking beside Scott's grandmother several years ago to try to learn her secret to the perfect lemon meringue pie.  You don't know pie until you've had a taste of one of hers.  Literally, it's what she's known for.

As I watched in awe (and as she pushed my hands into the dough), I tried to make a mental note of every step of the way.  I even sat down and wrote how many fingers she used to measure each "fingerfull" of this or "pinches" that.  While my pies will surely never compare to hers, I am proud to report that I made my own lemon meringue pie this week!  The first in years!

The funny thing is that I felt such a sense of accomplishment just from making this one pie; whereas, Scott's grandmother used to make these in her sleep! 

While Grandma Harris's legacy will always be her pies, Nanny's will be her Nanny Biscuits (which my family has literally video-taped her making in an effort to replicate!), Grandma Lenhart's will be her yummy noodles...I sometimes wonder what mine will be...From all of these women I have seen examples of great strength, perseverance in the face of trial, and love for family  and have learned so much more than how to feed a crowd!  I pray I will do the same for future generations...

Love to all, Sarah

The Junk Room

A Junk Room...Do you have one?  Sure you do!  You may not want to admit it to the world, but we've all got those places in our homes that would surely cause us to cringe if our mothers discovered the mounds of chaos and disarray.  My poor mother and mother in law have probably both been appalled upon opening the "organized chaos" I call our guest closet or the storage space that had become a "catch all."  My mother really did train me better! :)

At any rate, it's there.  Yours may not be a large room, rather it could be a closet or corner of the garage.  It's that place where things land that we're either not quite sure what to do with OR that we for some reason aren't ready to let go of.  

As I prepared myself to head into our junk room and begin cleaning it out, it hit me that there is such a strong spiritual parallel here.  While we hate to admit to one another, we all have "junk rooms"...this is the place in our hearts where sin abides or where we fall into sin by clinging to things/situations where we should really let God take control.  Reflecting on my personal "junk room," I realize that there's nothing to be ashamed of in the fact that it exists.  Rather, I should find comfort in the community of believers and in the presence of God to say...SWING OPEN THE DOOR, peer in and gawk at what a mess it is, but know that I am a work in progress.  I go daily to God asking for his help in cleaning out my "junk room" and I thank him for the things he's helped me "throw away."

What does your junk room look like?  Have you taken time to examine it lately?  God's Word tells us this is good, healthy in fact, and necessary in growing in our relationship with him.

2 Corinthians 13:5a "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith..."

Happy Cleaning! :)

Carter's Prayer

I know I've already posted once today, but I couldn't let this precious moment as a mommy go by without sharing it!

Last night (and again tonight), Carter said his own bedtime prayers!  For quite some time we've recited a "Thank you prayer" together at bedtime...but this was his own, independent thoughts--without my prompting.

His first prayer...just as he said it...

Thank you God for daddy.

Thank you God for mommy.

Thank you God for Ally, Adaline.

Thank you God for Mimi and Don-Don.

Thank you for Adaline shoot it (I'm certain this refers to his cousin's basketball game we went to!)

Thank you for your this special day. 

Amen.

Tonight's prayer... (while much more simple, precious just the same!)

Thank you for daddy and mommy.

Thank you for this special day.

Amen.

There's a lesson here for me.  I too often come to God with my list of needs/desires that far surpasses the time I spend giving thanks.  While there are many things I need to lay at His feet, may I never forget to first give Him praise!

My Wild Hair

No, I'm not speaking literally...

I've gotten a bit of a "wild hair" in me as they say.  (Whoever "they" is!)

I can't believe I'm about to say this (and for those of you who know me you may not even believe it), but I have decided to participate in the Country Music Half Marathon...key words--participate (that means mostly walk, not run) and half (13 miles instead of 26--I'm not THAT crazy!). 

If any of you choose to wake up early on the morning of April 26th and wish to come cheer me (along with several supportive coworkers) on to the finish line, I'd love to see your smiling faces! :)  The only thing I ask is that you don't laugh at me crawling across the finish line!

If any of you want to attend the free concert that night with me...you can sign up too!  Otherwise, you'll have to settle for the bands along the marathon path.  

I begin my training on Thursday, but I will be changing some eating/drinking habits (as in more water, less coke!) as well.  I'm sure that these next few months will bring some good material for me to include here as I embark on this journey.  

Well--that's it for now.  I have to go find my walking shoes!

~Sarah

Happy New Year!

Greetings all!

One of my new year's resolutions is to post at least once a week (though I'm really hoping to do more!).  That said, here's my first post of the new year--some pictures from our Christmas that I hope will make you smile!

Love,

Sarah :)

A Christmas Miracle!

Have you ever seen A Charlie Brown Christmas?  It's a classic, and I guess for that reason I feel obligated to watch it year after year.  At one point, they use the phrase "a Christmas miracle!"  In our house, this is a funny phrase to use to point out even the smallest thing that is good during the day or that blesses us.  

It all started about a year ago when our friends Chris & Dayna came to visit.  I remember Chris shouting "It's a Christmas miracle!" when he received extra cherries in his cherry limeade at Sonic.  It struck me as funny, and so we began to use the phrase for everything positive that weekend.  And hey, who doesn't get excited about extra cherries???

Now hearing the phrase again, a whole year later, I realize that it's really a great practice to get into.  Being joyful in the small things...not taking them for granted...being thankful for them.

And so, here are my most recent "Christmas Miracles!":

5. Carter didn't throw food on the floor at supper and he even fell asleep before 8!

4. We were able to get the check for my totaled car. (Thanks to my Dad!)

3.  I picked out something to wear today in less than five minutes (I'm usually such a girl about it, as Scott can attest to.)

2.  I get to have a much needed Girls' Night with some dear friends!  (Ladies--you ALL know how important this is...and what a miracle it is when you can actually work out the child care and hectic schedules!)

1.  Only a half day and a two hour day stand between me and Christmas break!

Miracles I'm still waiting on...

10.  Christmas break :)

9.  Winning the lottery (guess it'd help to buy a ticket)

8.  To actually enjoy shopping for jeans and bathing suits (Yuck!)

7.  To finish my Christmas shopping beforeChristmas day (and for the Christmas cards we ordered to arrive beforeChristmas has passed)

6.  For the rest of the "baby fat" to fall off and replace itself with lean muscle

5.  For the cleaning fairy to visit my house & it be spotless when I arrive home from work

4.  For the laundry to do itself (including the folding, ironing, and putting back in the closet)

3.  For Publisher's Clearing House to show up with my unclaimed $17 mil.  (Of course, I guess you have to actually enter for that to happen!)

2.  For the bills to pay themselves...

And drumroll for #1...

1.  A night of at least 8 hours sleep followed by a day to actually sleep in!

What have your "Christmas Miracles" been today?  

Love you all,

Sarah :)

Happy Birthday, Carter!

I hope I can make it through this post without tears! :)

Did it ever drive you crazy when your parents would reminisce on your birthday about the actual day of your birth?  OR were you one of those who, like me, enjoyed hearing the story told just one more time and thinking about the excitement of that day?  Despite the joy I found in those moments (and memories) I never imagined that I, too, would sit before my own child recounting the events of his birthday...but today I did and I loved every minute of it!

Our son was born on a Thursday.  I remember the details of the morning, following a long, somewhat scary night in the hospital, as though they were just a few months ago.  We were scared by Carter's quick, significant drop in heart rate from the moment they attached the heart monitors to my belly.  The repeated terror at the thought of losing this child that I had carried for 9 beautiful months was petrifying.  Nurses flocked to my side, my husband held my hand and gently brushed away my tears, and my family and friends gathered near to provide support and encouragement.   The umbilical cord had been wrapped around his neck, and my body was producing 7 minute contractions which only complicated matters.  After 11 seemingly endless hours, Carter was born by C-section.  Dr. Link (the best OBGYN anyone could have) had told us that just a few more hours and he might not have made it.  BUT, thanks be to God,  and to Dr. Link who later told us he'd felt God's prompting to have us come to the hospital a full day earlier than planned, we held our precious 7lb. 10 1/2 oz. baby in our arms.

It is hard to believe that two years have passed and here I sit now holding my "baby" who once expressed his love through snuggling and tears, but now can sit and say that not only does he love us, but he loves God.  My heart is full to overflowing with gratitude to God for blessing us with this child.  What a miracle he truly is...

All this leads me to reflect on what it must have been like for Mary to carry and give birth to Jesus.  What was it like to hold baby Jesus in her arms, knowing that he was The Child of God?On his birthday, would Mary and Joseph reminisce about their journey to Bethlehem?  As the years passed, what was it like for them to see Jesus teased, persecuted, and sacrificed on the cross?  I cannot imagine feeling the all-consuming joy of bearing the child of God only to experience such pain in seeing him put to death.  I am grateful today not only for the miraculous gift of Christ's birth, but also for the gift of salvation we have through him.  What a miracle HE truly is...

Brag Spot

I know, I know.  This is a "blog-spot."  But for tonight, it is my "brag-spot."  While we are not to boast, I do think we are called to build one another up....and so, I wish to build up my husband.

For the single ladies out there, I'm sorry...but the ultimate "dream guy" has been officially off the market for 8 1/2 years now.  That's because I was blessed enough to become his bride!  

My husband, Scott, is an amazing person.  He is a tall, blonde, and handsome God-fearing man who is gentle, patient, diligent, loving, thorough, pays attention to detail, gifted in so many ways, musically talented, faithful, hard-working, kind, and the list goes on and on...

I am so proud to be his wife, and tonight I am especially proud of him.  He has put in many hours working on a CD project and concert through our church...from which, all the profits go directly to our mission partnerships in Africa.  Tonight's concert was incredible!  All of his hard work, organization, and sacrifice of time and energy as well as that of our Worship Arts staff made this evening a night to remember.  

That said, I want to thank him publicly for his efforts...AND for being such a wonderful husband and daddy.  I am so blessed!

If you are interested in hearing music from tonight's concert, check out our church's website.   Go to fellowshipnashville.org  There you can hear music from the CD "Ring the Bells" and even purchase the CD from the site.  The concert will be airing nationally through on the Worship Network (I don't know what that is locally, but there's probably info. about that on the church site, too).  Enjoy! 

"I'm okay."

These two words have become a familiar phrase around our house.  Carter, being my son and having only known how to walk for half his life, seems to be a bit clumsy.  I guess we've asked him so many times now whether or not he's okay that as soon as he realizes there's the slightest possibility that he's been hurt, he utters the words, "I'm okay."

Well, today it's my turn...I had a car wreck this morning that may have totaled the car...but my response about the whole thing now is, "I'm okay."  A car turned in front of me while I was traveling at about 35-40mph.  Thankfully, no one was seriously injured.  Much to my surprise, the air bags did not deploy.  I credit my limited injuries to quick reflexes (although the nice knot on my leg is a direct result of my reflexes), but more importantly I am scrape free because of the grace of God and my SEAT BELT.  Were it not for that, my head would've surely hit the windshield.  Don't believe me?  Ask the glove that flew from my passenger seat up ontothe dash!  Crazy!

It's amazing how such an incident can effect you.  My day was turned upside down (and that of my knight in shining armor--my husband, Scott), I am horribly sore throughout my body, without means of transportation, concerned about what this could mean for us financially, and quite apprehensive about driving again (especially about driving with Carter in the car).  It is in moments like this that the "What if's?" can creep into your way of thinking.  But, as a believer I know that my God is in control...and today, perhaps, this was his way of slowing me down...I don't mean slowing my car down (by the way I was driving within the speed limit!)...I mean slowing my life down a bit. 

It's so easy to get caught up in life's busyness and in the little details.  As such, we miss so much of what life, and other people, have to offer.  

Today, I am thankful for the many times I have gotten in my car and God has protected my family in our travels.  Even as I stood waiting for the police to finish their report, I thought of these words from an old Amy Grant song..."Near misses all around me, accidents unknown, though I never see with human eyes the hands that lead me home.  But I know they're all around me, all day and through the night...got his angels watching over me."  God is so good.

I just want one moment to be on my soap box, and it's because I care...You can be the safest driver in the world and still end up in a wreck thanks to someone else's error...so PLEASE wear your seat belts and make your kids sit in the back! :)

Amen, ABC

We've not been great about taking pictures lately, but here's the most recent candid of our little one...  

Carter's been singing his "ABCs" seemingly non-stop.  He especially likes to sing the last two phrases, "Now I know my ABCs, next time won't you sing with me."

Tonight, after saying his thank you prayer, he said "Amen," and sweetly sang "Now I know my ABCs, next time won't you sing with me!"