tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53697128244911208892024-03-12T20:02:45.250-07:00The Mommy DiariesShelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-32319337728305302032011-08-09T21:06:00.000-07:002011-08-09T21:49:34.824-07:00Crackers and MusicJust relaxing after a Tuesday night practice and eating my new favorite snack.<div>
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCiI0SRXKtg8UCQZcZ_N9bKNIvB_mtuyeGVc8tUhMFk7qP7PA6O-NmYtwpjEN5bNLM8onQT-NfgdoIjaAva1JgQlzQECeNm6slWjvQrDFVJyCZde91tgtH6AiQ_RE7N7Y_ZEml6X_7Gnc/s1600/securedownload-3.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCiI0SRXKtg8UCQZcZ_N9bKNIvB_mtuyeGVc8tUhMFk7qP7PA6O-NmYtwpjEN5bNLM8onQT-NfgdoIjaAva1JgQlzQECeNm6slWjvQrDFVJyCZde91tgtH6AiQ_RE7N7Y_ZEml6X_7Gnc/s320/securedownload-3.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639077982337520530" /></a>
<br />You are supposed to let them sit in the bag overnight. However, I was a little impatient. They taste awesome right now. :-) I also subbed olive oil for canola oil. AND I halved the original recipe which called for 1 1/2 cup of canola oil, 2 bags of ranch seasoning, 5 tsp of red pepper flakes, and a whole box of saltines. TASTY!</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Anyway, I have a music blog which I never write in, but I decided to just write some music thoughts here ... since I'm blogging here for now. I was putting together my set list for this weekend a couple days ago and have been thinking on some things since then. There's always a giant controversy about the old songs vs. the new songs. We all probably know the story. As a music director I hear all kinds of feedback... positive and negative. Regardless of the feedback, I love to put songs together that have the same message. For instance... "Not to us, but to Your name be the glory..." and "Glory to His name, glory to His name, there to my heart was the blood applied, glory to His name." Which made me think, what difference does it really make that the beat is a little different? When God's presence falls in a service, you won't find me sitting back and taking it easy. I can appreciate ANY Christian music that has a powerful message. Anyway, I have enough to fill up a book on that subject. Just MY opinion. :-)
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<br /></div></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-58008977601542927552011-08-08T17:17:00.000-07:002011-08-08T17:40:00.401-07:00<div style="text-align: left;">We had such a busy weekend. It all started when I decided on the spur of the moment to head to my grandparents and surprise them and my mom and stepdad with a visit. Here's a pic of Ainsley right before we left. :-)</div><div>
<br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTt5GiK1Nf7uJS3UB5Y6PFVKedoVxu3SvqNGYbiBAN4ds7J_23IT_f_vgFIGxxu3w9gc36lt7LSmP7aQTe4TO8_Cp9qU_BQ-XYPij7Paa9LJK9XBhiPAvJ5R0nU1hgVr18KKsl9_RzON7/s320/267330_2086877805227_1043632772_32441925_3561904_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638644824464196386" /></div><div>My mom was so surprised that she screamed for EVER and scared Ainsley. Anyway, we had a fabulous time. Of course, Ainsley was the center of attention. Her favorite activity of the trip was pulling up on the coffee table and pushing the magazines one-by-one to the floor. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>I cherish my time with my Nana. She's such an awesome lady. She helped me finish a jumper project I had started and abandoned when it got tough. She also made divinity... </div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_dmeYlYreGmji9rPBMQEV4GcGMEKrgO-gNDzxfoyK8khMGRv15JQE7ANhyphenhyphenx8VAT0lycdFGcOeAIQs_gjWqWDOio7qgMjMc41TJQjt8UnUadeKWk-YyX-7kMpdTywmnxluhd8br2qvlbt/s320/284371_2088471645072_1043632772_32443740_1865772_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638644823933842066" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;">
<br /></span></div><div>Do you believe that she doesn't use a thermometer? She showed me how the sugar is supposed to string out when it's just right. It was "divine." In fact, I've still got a few pieces left... I might go get one.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>On Saturday morning, I headed back home. When I came in a saw a new cookbook named "Cake Pops" that Shawn had gotten me while I was away. I decided to try the simplest cake pops in the book late Saturday night. I was much more difficult that it looked (to me). Firstly, it feels yucky on your hands. (Note to self: use gloves next time.) Secondly, to get the melted candy coating to cover the pop was not easy. In fact, I don't think it ever happened for me. Lol. They turned out cute anyway... and quite tasty if you ask me. They were strawberry and cream cheese with a dark chocolate coating. </div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgm42Bet15HoQtaArnPS4KS3HWM-oZSnOarcrpACTkzyBNyE8JByDkwExHFa8s-CJODd3uoJ8KaMqkjdO-Lx3Cgp8UY414xxa7lZFPn_jNvUf_7teIDiY0z10ZnkKToyB8DxVu2LRwaeXG/s320/223111_2091539321762_1043632772_32446722_5424849_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638644827699716530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;">
<br /></span></div><div>I gave them to our youth SS class. I assume they enjoyed them. :-) Okay... it's been a long day. I'm thinking of going to bed extremely early...</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Night, night.</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-85796165443586458542011-07-30T16:36:00.000-07:002011-07-30T20:17:31.915-07:00Mommy and Ainsley go thrifting...<div style="text-align: left;">Okay... let's just say that I'm extending my deadline on the organization project. It's much bigger than what I thought. However... I've thrown away / donated a TON of stuff in my effort to clear out the clutter. I've taken some "before" pics, but I don't want to take the "after" pics until I am totally done. You wouldn't believe the difference I've already made.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, part of my project was getting baskets for a couple of the main rooms we live in for Ainsley's toys. Usually they are just sitting on my dresser or on our fireplace. The last few times I've been in Target I've looked. I did see several that I liked, but all were over $20. So today I decided to go to the thrift store. Because I was alone and wasn't up for a lengthy ride in the car, I went to a new Goodwill near my house. I said a prayer that I'd find just what I was looking for. At just the right price...</div><div><br /></div><div>Here we are heading out to find our bargains...</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PgSACpGyfngaQMMleAFChAX935y_SZc1aCwh8HiKY-eZ__2pdiFffIx3cSLzU3CQGFDoTVrBbHCE9fbBcn7f4i4kNQs-d9WnSRYf2KSiHifhX0mLDnPsJJ7BUTxqt23PlDLOrfZmOCCi/s320/securedownload.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635347577613921090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div>Everyone we passed today was in love with Ms. Ainsley. :-) She was quite the little superstar. So this is what I found... a basket, 3 books (bible stories... I had these exact books when I was little. They are in great condition), and a scarf. All for less than $10!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgcbmYAVRWRydL0ZJ9gVCH28OHkr9JNhJaggZOF-eOp2bD_PMbu8YNUGv0aYmxLHR2bBwg_RFsH23H5z8W7h7BZiMCgIK4mmF-iBZL0w3bRnjQ7lAWsPu67XKdTs7XM_qPAOPGX6SNODu/s1600/securedownload-1.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgcbmYAVRWRydL0ZJ9gVCH28OHkr9JNhJaggZOF-eOp2bD_PMbu8YNUGv0aYmxLHR2bBwg_RFsH23H5z8W7h7BZiMCgIK4mmF-iBZL0w3bRnjQ7lAWsPu67XKdTs7XM_qPAOPGX6SNODu/s320/securedownload-1.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635348497084016082" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div>After wiping everything down with antibacterial wipes (of course!) I put Ainsley's toys in our "new" basket. I really like it! I think I could get into this thrift store thing...</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyY3PaMPjxs1GSGyvGh-2lPrv7AWUfSFoLQPd87adYnLiVDDfFstfdbvxf8m3gCA8QY83tBfF0dQjMIdQHOZero2wBjj67pCeNKN1xLWGbEzsT59d0dcIAowztjDxkNkw9uO3L2zZ4lyj/s320/securedownload-2.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635348494202073698" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-16277893999710858752011-06-27T19:59:00.000-07:002011-06-27T20:03:50.386-07:00Day 1 = SuccessToday I cleaned out and organized my nightstand cabinet and my dresser. I started working on my closet, but didn't quite get finished. I will continue working in my bedroom tomorrow. :) Pics coming tomorrow.Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-32208172661443428972011-06-26T21:03:00.000-07:002011-06-26T21:19:50.343-07:00My 30 day challenge to myselfDoes anyone else wish they were OCD? Not the part with switching the light on and off 20 times or washing your hands a jillion times a day... but the organized part. The part where your clothing is organized by color and outfits are already put together. (If you could see my closet, you'd understand.)<div><br /></div><div>As a new mommy, I'm finding my house is getting more and more cluttered. My hubby and I weren't exactly organized before Ainsley came. I call what we had "cute clutter." But having a baby has put a whole new meaning into clutter... her stuff is everywhere. A swing, 2 bouncers, a walker, a high chair, a bumbo, random toys, headbands, etc... all of this is along the walls of my breakfast room and den. <div><br /></div><div>Bottom line, I think I'd be a happier person if every part of home was organized. Down to underneath all of the beds. If we haven't used it in the last year and it has no sentimental value, then it isn't serving a purpose. Soooo. My 30 day challenge is to organize every nook and cranny of this giant house. I may not can do it in 30 days. Who knows. I may can do it in less... </div></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm going to blog my progress. I'm starting tomorrow in my bedroom since it is the room where we spend the most time. </div><div><br /></div><div>PS - This may lead up to a giant garage sale or donation to Goodwill.</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-52858851640665845022011-02-28T21:36:00.000-08:002011-02-28T21:51:52.660-08:00We've had an eventful last two days. Although in our lives almost every day is eventful. I honestly thought things would slow down once I had a baby and was working from home. Not so. We've had something going on for the last million nights. Not really, but I've only had one free night in the last 2 and 1/2 weeks, and I used it to clean. It's not going to let up this week either. Got something planned for every night except Saturday. I wonder what it must feel like to like in a tiny town where you're always home and in bed by 9 pm. Thank God I'm usually home during the day.<div><br /></div><div>Ainsley's dedication was this weekend. It was beautiful and everything I could've hoped for. She slept through it. (I prayed for that.) Then, today I had her pictures made in the christening gown she wore for the dedication. I can't wait to see how the pics came out. I think they are going to be gorgeous. I have a feeling my home is going to end up being one gigantic Ainsley shrine. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight we had a party for my brother-in-law at our house. I wish I could've cooked something spectacular, but I opted for tacos since it's such a large group (9 adults and 5 kiddos) and Ainsley's pics were being done at 3 pm so I didn't know exactly how much time I'd have. Anyway... I'm starting to wonder really how many kids I want. The 5 kids got pretty crazy tonight. At least for my house. I've been saying 4 for the last 6 or 7 years, but I love my peace and quiet. Who knows? :) When we're ready to have another, we'll do it. If we never get ready, then we'll never do it. Unless, of course, we have an accident. Lol! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-83314335332789152452011-02-23T09:45:00.000-08:002011-02-23T10:05:09.839-08:00Stinky BabyDuring the last week or so, I have been stumped by an unpleasant odor I would smell when holding Ainsley. Now don't start thinking I don't give her baths or am not taking care of her, because I do. :) The first time I smelled it I thought maybe she'd somehow gotten spit up on the back of her head. Then, the second time I got a whiff I thought I'd found the culprit. I believed it was behind her ears. I thought I'd been cleaning it good. Shawn and I discussed it several times. I told him to pay special attention behind her ears when bathing her and I did the same. <div><br /></div><div>This morning after my devotion time, I sat down to hold her in my glider. I was holding her up and playing with her when I caught a glimpse of something grey underneath a fold on her neck. It took me a while to even maneuver her head so I could get under there. Oh My Lord! Neck Jam. All the way around the front of her little neck. It was difficult to even get to it knowing it was there. Her head had to be tilted back. I did wash her neck during baths, but the way her little bath sling has her sitting her neck isn't really visible. Thank God I found the smell. I didn't want people thinking I had a stinky baby. </div><div><br /></div><div>I guess being in the devotion mindset I had a thought. How many little creases need to be cleaned out in our mind and heart? A build-up of junk that we don't even realize is there. Every now and then it comes out and we catch a whiff of something that is not pleasing to God. What if others catch a glimpse of some "grey" matter that we don't even know about? It might be difficult to get to and we may have to search ourselves daily. Lord, please don't let me have any "neck jam" hidden somewhere. :)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-48973003811519236982011-02-22T20:25:00.000-08:002011-02-22T20:48:26.034-08:00Wanting to go deeperToday has been a much better day than yesterday. I stayed home all day until choir practice time. Got several loads of laundry done and folded. I learned and taught a new song. And relaxed and watched last night's Bachelor while feeding Ainsley throughout the day. (HA. Side note. Ainsley is in her bassinet cooing at her mobile and kicking her legs and her feet just touched one of the hanging bears.) Anyway... I've lost all faith in the process of the Bachelor, but whatever... it's good entertainment. I really don't even care who Brad ends up with this time. :) <div><br /></div><div>Last Friday night we went to our Houston Revival Conference at First Church of Pearland. Anthony Mangun was the special speaker. His message was about prayer. It so moved both Shawn and I. I want to have a deeper relationship with God. If I don't do it now, it will never happen. I will wake up and my life will be gone and I'll be the same person I am right now. There are so many things that I know God wants to do through me, but if I don't give Him time to speak to me He may find someone else to use. I want to be the one He uses. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the lyrics to one of my favorite songs that really speaks how I'm feeling tonight:</div><div><br /></div><div>I give myself away</div><div>I give myself away so You can use me</div><div><br /></div><div>Here I am </div><div>Here I stand</div><div>Lord, my life is in Your hands </div><div>Lord, I'm longing to see</div><div>Your desires revealed in me</div><div><br /></div><div><div>I give myself away</div><div>I give myself away so You can use me</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Take my heart</div><div>Take my life</div><div>As a living sacrifice</div><div>All my dreams, all my plans </div><div>Lord, I place them in Your hands</div><div><br /></div><div>My life is not my own</div><div>To You I belong</div><div>I give myself, I give myself to You</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-13602984235971650682011-02-21T22:07:00.000-08:002011-02-21T22:45:40.999-08:00The Shower SagaLittle pumpkin is in her bassinet winding down. I've started putting her in there when she gets really sleepy and she'll watch her mobile until she falls asleep. It's cute because she'll watch it and then stare at the side of the bed for a really long time. This happens over and over again until she falls asleep. I read somewhere that it's best if you can get them to fall asleep on their own so that they can put themselves back to sleep in the middle of the night when they wake up. <div><br /></div><div>I'm going to blog about what happened to me tonight. It is of no interest or importance to anyone else, but it was a major source of stress for me and I really need to get it off my chest.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was invited to a baby shower for a local pastor's wife tonight. It's not my usual crowd, but I was honored to be invited so I decided to go. I get me and Ainsley dressed to impress and headed out to a baby boutique to buy the gift on the way. I had left in just enough time (2 hrs early) to go buy the gift, drive across town to the restaurant, and feed Ainsley (in the car) before going in. I got into traffic and realized I wasn't going to make it to the boutique before it closed. I decided to call them to see if they'd stay open just five extra minutes. It's a privately owned store so I figured they'd want to make a sale. No. They wouldn't stay open. :( I couldn't think of any other place to go so I headed to Dillards. After picking an outfit that would "do" I went to the checkout counter. The cashier was super sweet, but was wanting me to give her advice on what her 1-month old nephew should wear to a funeral. She KEPT asking more questions. I guess she thought I was an expert since I'm a mother of a 2-month old. I wanted to say, "Look, Lady, I'm in a huge hurry! I know NOTHING about how to dress a newborn boy!" I didn't though. She was just so nice and other under circumstances, I'd have probably been thrilled to help her find something appropriate for her nephew who "loved his milk." I tried to give her my opinion in the nicest way possible. </div><div><br /></div><div>I make it out of the store with an hour remaining. I still have to get across town and find the restaurant. I make it to the exit with 30 minutes left. I'm thinking that it is still doable. I drive around for THIRTY minutes trying to find the restaurant. I didn't have the person's number who invited me or anyone who would be in attendance. I call a restaurant in that chain - they have no clue where it is. I call 411 - they can't help. I finally gave up. I realized if I ever found the place, I would still have to feed Ainsley which would put me extremely late. </div><div><br /></div><div>Shawn was out with some friends so I ended up just going to meet them. I am still so bummed that this all didn't work out for me. I just wanted to cry. All that work for NOTHING. Sometimes you just have to give up though. Now I'm just wondering do I keep the gift for Ainsley or still give it... :)</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-22979271821373901682011-02-07T17:49:00.000-08:002011-02-07T17:57:05.809-08:00Doctor DayWe had Ainsley's two month doctor's appointment today. I had mixed emotions because I wanted to see how much she weighed now, but didn't want her to have to go through the pain of her vaccinations. My little pumpkin weighs 10 lbs and 5 oz now and is 22 and 1/4 inches long. The doctor said she was perfect. :) Of course we already knew that she was. <div><br /></div><div>Not sure how other nursing moms feel, but it feels like an accomplishment and makes me so proud when I see that she's growing and reaching all of her milestones. I just want to pat myself on the back. :) How cool to know that I'm still the only source of my sweet baby's nourishment?! It's definitely not the easiest choice, but the best choice for my baby and I wouldn't have it any other way. </div><div><br /></div><div>Okay, I have more to say but little angelface is fussing. Gotta go. ;)</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-22509853495902610772011-01-29T22:40:00.001-08:002011-01-29T22:54:26.672-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNRIxepSYwHlHy9if4Oeb25ZGz9Q_VWtvAq39Q7UdaSqyEVedAZTQWTZD6mpWbXMsqCSfP-zByeaFeYDI7yvQ8uQnh17IIXjaauHxp8vF6FcRbdoqdz1VUuqzTZZxIX59vscSfg0uT8Hk/s1600/168314_1688511366315_1043632772_31902759_2218995_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNRIxepSYwHlHy9if4Oeb25ZGz9Q_VWtvAq39Q7UdaSqyEVedAZTQWTZD6mpWbXMsqCSfP-zByeaFeYDI7yvQ8uQnh17IIXjaauHxp8vF6FcRbdoqdz1VUuqzTZZxIX59vscSfg0uT8Hk/s320/168314_1688511366315_1043632772_31902759_2218995_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567868568684487010" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr20Iiu4iTeePh72bVdhz0L6BFXzlweGgae19xXkfcrzw3izmvUyr1mSThoDThO29tULggsQZkxguEHrUxDWor-yssHSpXsw9jpYPiQp6HKtzfQYAxsalnV_J7byUcw1NEzhs-IKNQk_-Q/s1600/168133_1691773767873_1043632772_31908778_6952610_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr20Iiu4iTeePh72bVdhz0L6BFXzlweGgae19xXkfcrzw3izmvUyr1mSThoDThO29tULggsQZkxguEHrUxDWor-yssHSpXsw9jpYPiQp6HKtzfQYAxsalnV_J7byUcw1NEzhs-IKNQk_-Q/s320/168133_1691773767873_1043632772_31908778_6952610_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567868564342605650" /></a><br />It's been almost a week since I last posted. I kinda feel guilty about it too. :) It's been a full week. We're starting to get back into our old routine. Tuesday night = practice. Wednesday night = church. Friday night = youth. I also went to the church several days this week to work. I haven't gotten my at-home office set up yet. It's actually been fun to get dressed and go somewhere during the day, after weeks of staying in my pjs. <div><br /></div><div>I feel like I'm finally starting to get the hang of things - although a few of my fb friends said I wouldn't ever adjust. I am starting to just relax and go with the flow. In my inexperienced opinion I think that is an important part of motherhood. I'm trying my hardest to go into every situation knowing that if Ainsley requires something, I will stop and do it and not worry about the consequences. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ainsley has started cooing and make lots of little noises this week. She makes more each day. Mom is coming on Monday to stay with us for a couple days. Mainly because I feel like Ainsley has changed so much just in the last two weeks. I don't want her to miss too much. Really wish she lived closer. For her sake and mine.</div><div> </div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-44012467449433908602011-01-17T09:04:00.001-08:002011-01-17T09:21:36.935-08:00Well, we've been out to eat thrice in the last 48 hours with baby girl. :) Are we brave are what?! Hehe. Believe it or not, it has worked out each time. She's not crazy about hanging out in her carseat when she isn't sleeping though. This means that we take turns eating and holding her. However, all three times the people eating with us have wanted to hold her for us. I'm sure eventually the newness will wear off and we'll get to deal with her. :) I won't be upset at all - I love holding her... even if it means waiting to eat until my food is cold. <div><br /></div><div>In other news, the weirdest longing to be back in school has been haunting me since Saturday. I definitely know I couldn't take on a full load or even really more than 1 or 2 classes at the time. I'm going to continue to mull it over for a while. Obviously I couldn't actually start back until August. I would have to start making a few preparations now - take the dreaded GRE, apply to a few different programs, etc. The application process to grad school is much more complex than for a bachelor's degree. There are two Masters programs in Counseling that would complete the requirements for the LPC that I'm looking into. I could still be a full time mommy and be a counselor as I could schedule my own hours, etc - and only take as many clients as I wished. One a week or one a day.... Whatever. Who knows how I'll feel in several days. </div><div><br /></div><div>PS - My little pumpkin just couldn't be any sweeter!</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-1544865165483360262011-01-14T21:38:00.000-08:002011-01-14T21:51:02.735-08:00A busy dayAfter the morning feeding, I quickly handed baby girl off to daddy and headed to Target to get our weekly groceries. It was the first time I've been grocery shopping since Ainsley came. It was nice to get out of the house. I may start using that time to go to the gym in the mornings. <div><br /></div><div>Got back from the store and had to start getting ready for a funeral that I had to play/sing for. </div><div>Then at 7 pm we had about 25 youth at our house. I'm glad everyone is gone now and we're back to our usual peace and quiet.... other than the occasional cries from Ainsley. </div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of our princess, she's been sleepy all day today. I'm thinking tonight might be a rough night since she napped pretty much all day. We'll see. She's fussing right now so I better go....</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-56048721939748418572011-01-13T10:59:00.000-08:002011-01-13T11:16:35.136-08:00Back to "normal"<div style="text-align: left;">Mom is now gone, and Ainsley and I are back to our usual routine. I've gotten quite a bit done this morning. Folded some laundry, unloaded and reloaded dishwasher, hung up some clothes and started getting the maternity clothes out of my closet to move upstairs until next time. Pumpkin is swinging in her swing right now and smiling like a little doll.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a pic of her today in a 0-3 sleeper! The newborn size sleeper that she wore last night was too small so I thought I'd see how this one fit today. My baby is growing...<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxbsD3PYSe_a_My42nAdUeW26DRlnrjveW_QLRjx57rTDJCXz7zZJ8yXAb7ZQbwUYQQNttmlAtym9TMTu6NFtgT_uFZyW-aIjkizvG25kIG_pZQeeWyTvaVZ3J0_vtNIX7awXybVgVzlC/s320/167036_1673066300198_1043632772_31872760_542598_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561750858317992674" /><div><br /></div><div>During my pregnancy I got an email from a friend that so moved me. It was a devotional about mothers. Being that Shawn and I are so involved in ministry, it was hard for me to change my way of thinking about my involvement - although I plan to do as much as I can, things are different now. Anyway - I thought I'd post this devotional. It moved me again when I read it today. (I know it's kinda long... but, hey, this is my blog. I can do what I want. Hehe.)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>You may have more in common with one of the great men of the Bible than you realize.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>Example: He’s a shepherd in the desert of Median taking care of his sheep. He’s been a shepherd for forty years. It’s a lonely job. He doesn’t see a day when he will change jobs. His name is Moses.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>One day it’s different. Moses sees a </i><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1294945865_0"><i>burning bush</i></span><i> that defies being consumed by fire. In the burning bush he hears God say his name. Moses starts toward the bush, but God tells him to take off his shoes because he’s standing on holy ground.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>God tells this ordinary shepherd that he has been chosen to go to </i><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1294945865_1"><i>Egypt</i></span><i> to set god’s people free. “Who? Me? I’m just a shepherd!”</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>But God liked Moses’ credentials of faithfulness, and to get them on his resume he was given a temporary job assignment that produced steadfastness and allowed lonely times in the desert, which, in turn, gave him prime time to talk with God. He was being shaped and prepared for the Exodus Extravaganza.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>God’s final statement carried Moses through some difficult times when Moses was trying to convince Pharaoh to let the people go. God told Moses that he wouldn’t have to go down to Egypt and carry out his job assignment “empty handed” … and you know the rest of the story.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>What do you have in common with this </i><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1294945865_2"><i>great man of God</i></span><i>? The day you arrived home with your baby, your </i><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1294945865_3"><i>first response</i></span><i> to each day was imposed on you by a hungry baby’s wake-up call. Since then, you haven’t punched a time clock and you haven’t had regular coffee breaks. They don’t come with the job. It’s routine. You don’t see a day when you’ll change jobs.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>Listen to the dynamics of your job! Every day you feed, clothe, talk to, hold your baby; you are standing on holy ground. You are caring for a human being who has been made in the </i><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1294945865_4"><i>image of God</i></span><i>, and your baby has the potential of becoming one of </i><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1294945865_5"><i>God’s children</i></span><i>. No one has to remind you what’s in store for God’s children.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>You may not have long periods of time to spend with God, but you must create some times to be with him, not necessarily long times but prime times. Why? It’s the only sure way to overcome the sneaky techniques of a world that works overtime to keep you from understanding the depth of being faithful at your job as a mother.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>During your Closet Times, you and God plan your counterattack against false advertising, and he helps you ignore the distorted voices of a secular world that is opposed to family as God designed it. Those are the voices that say, “Parenting takes too much time,” “You’ve got better things to do.” “Your baby is slowing you down and keeping you from being all you can be.” “Your child will never express his appreciation for all you’re doing.” “It’s not worth it!”</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i> </i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><i>Closet Times help you distinguish God’s voice from other voices that deter you from being the mother you know you can be. They give God time to shape you and prepare you to lead your child through each phase of his life, even when you can’t see the end results of your hard work. And here’s the clincher: Every time you leave your Closet Time, you know you don’t have to face your God-called job empty-handed.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; font-size: 11pt; font-family: sans-serif; "><br /></p></span></div></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-68673069764703256962011-01-11T10:14:00.000-08:002011-01-11T10:38:50.477-08:00Not Ready...As I said in my last post, my mom is here to watch Ainsley while I get a few things done around here. I've almost gotten everything accomplished. :) After I asked her to come, I remembered that I had scheduled my first choir practice since she's been born and thought, "Oh how perfect, she can watch her while we go to practice." However, the more I think about it and the closer it gets, it just makes me want to cry. I just don't think I'm ready to leave her yet. I have no idea what will happen at practice...Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-72681475517700110722011-01-08T20:30:00.000-08:002011-01-08T20:56:49.159-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgojC8tBkPg-CDIS2E8g2OzVJWYk55DOgD9ZxtCddfrNq-zI2w0Vyn1cznkEkmLdHCncqVRpjZqgXQ5Q0zOeHOt7Gb3ssSxkqyq8N_3TKEqkI4QYkOlligkZAVTDY1_d5eRHJ42Np3BoWQr/s1600/165182_1666931786839_1043632772_31860465_4449427_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgojC8tBkPg-CDIS2E8g2OzVJWYk55DOgD9ZxtCddfrNq-zI2w0Vyn1cznkEkmLdHCncqVRpjZqgXQ5Q0zOeHOt7Gb3ssSxkqyq8N_3TKEqkI4QYkOlligkZAVTDY1_d5eRHJ42Np3BoWQr/s320/165182_1666931786839_1043632772_31860465_4449427_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560045224083580594" /></a><br />We've had a couple of really good days. The swing is still working its magic. Although I keep trying to set what I think are realistic goals for myself each day. Unfortunately, my version of "realistic" is still too much. I've called in some help for next week. My mom is coming to watch my baby girl in between feedings while I get a handle on my laundry, putting up christmas, and my bedroom. I feel like if I can get caught up then I can keep up with everything. We'll see...<div><br /></div><div>I've also made nursing more interesting by starting an intriguing series and watching it while feeding her. Now we're both looking forward to nursing. Ha.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a pic of her tonight...</div><div><br /></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-32749436438893758522011-01-06T11:00:00.000-08:002011-01-06T11:12:56.601-08:00One month!Here's one of my favorite pics of her...<div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1K7XCPWZOCo0Rs1vDboZyhJIyiHsvk9fcmDTUUtb6DWGMdBb-FeCG3zgo_Oc3AluXPxVKk3474eS2WzT08Gw_-8M_ws7bYWFFv2AZA4AY99CxCcFPt3lv0-JyLq2a8E5l-OeoKVlpSZ9q/s1600/167536_1648344322164_1043632772_31814819_8126685_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1K7XCPWZOCo0Rs1vDboZyhJIyiHsvk9fcmDTUUtb6DWGMdBb-FeCG3zgo_Oc3AluXPxVKk3474eS2WzT08Gw_-8M_ws7bYWFFv2AZA4AY99CxCcFPt3lv0-JyLq2a8E5l-OeoKVlpSZ9q/s320/167536_1648344322164_1043632772_31814819_8126685_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559152798927662034" /></a><br />I'm going to post quickly because I see the heavy eyelids beginning in the swing and once she's out, I'm going out. Ha. They say to sleep when your baby sleeps - even if you neglect responsibilities. <div><br /></div><div>I found two things that put her to sleep yesterday! Her swing and loud music. Not combined... although I'm sure she'd be dead asleep if I put them together. Yesterday she was crying and I remembered how she always falls right asleep when the music starts at church so I turned on Byron Cage. Like magic, she stopped crying and closed her eyes. :) Must be all those loud practices and services she slept through in the womb. </div><div><br /></div><div>She's sleeping now so I'll just say. This has been the most painful, exciting, loving, emotional month of my life. I'm glad to be through the first month and on to more rest and fun times. Speaking of rest.... duty calls - I must sleep when she's sleeping. Maybe I'll post a little more later today.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5369712824491120889.post-59163606486870124962011-01-05T09:03:00.000-08:002011-01-05T09:20:59.237-08:00My First PostI decided to start a blog about my journey as a mother. I'll just post about my daily doings and whatnot - struggles, adventures, etc. I regret not journaling during my pregnancy which inspired me to start this one. It's not for anyone but me so just move along if you think this is boring. ;)<div><br /></div><div>Today is off to a great start! I've actually been able to get a couple things done. I finished a photo book that I started making of Ainsley's 1st month. (It should arrive in 6 days.) I plan to make one each month for a while. I know it seems like that is a lot, but I just couldn't delete any of the pics. :) They are all so precious. </div><div><br /></div><div>After fixing myself a toasted bagel and yogurt, I put Ainsley in her bouncer. I put it in high gear and was running around the kitchen doing as much as I could - I got the dishwasher full and started, the trash in the trashcan, and almost got tonight's meal in the crockpot before she got fussy. I was so close to being done that I made the decision to let her fuss until I finished. I tried to entertain her by singing loudly, but it didn't work. :) Anyway... she's happy now and so am I. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so surprised at how much I want to be everything for this little girl. The nurse at the doctor's office asked me if she was in daycare yesterday. Although different things work for different people, I just could not leave my little baby at this point. I want to be the one to teach her new things each day. Thank you, God, for blessing me with a job that I can do from home. I'm so excited about this new chapter in my life.</div>Shelainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08063244132289345631noreply@blogger.com11