We're leaving in a couple minutes to take Avery to school...yes...all of us...
I awoke to this email from my Aunt Becky today.
(hope she doesn't mind me sharing)
Tears are welling up now...
"Dear Jennisa,
I was reading your blog this morning and realized, once again, how our lives have paralleled… you sending your precious Avery to school and me, sending my “baby” to college.
I don’t know about you, but no one ever told me that being a mom could hurt so bad. Why is it that the joy for our child is overshadowed by the pain of saying goodbye? For that’s what parenting seems to be… if you’re a good mom, you raise your child so they will be confident enough to leave you – to say goodbye with a happy wave and a smile.
So many goodbyes through the years… Each step of independence: first steps, first words, going to school, play dates, I want to do this myself, I’d rather be with my friends, learning to drive, graduations, trips to Germany, off to college… I’ve felt such joy such joy in those milestones, but also the pain of yet another goodbye. It’s pretty amazing how many tears I’ve hidden from my girls, and also some I couldn’t hide.
Yeah it sure does hurt. But Jennisa - amidst the anguish, be so very proud! Be proud that you are a ‘good mom’, that you have raised such a wonderful girl - a child who is confident and ready to face this new experience with a smile on her face, a twinkle in her eye, a willingness to learn, to make new friends, and the confidence to take a step out on her own… and know that the reason she is able to do so is because your love and caring has given her a rock solid foundation of love and security. If it wasn’t so, she wouldn’t be ready to go. Gosh, a mixed Blessing, isn’t it?
So today, I am with you in thought and in prayer and yes, sharing your tears too – bawling my eyes out if you want to know the truth. But let some of those tears be joyful too, ok? Let Avery’s joy and excitement fill the empty sad parts of your heart. And take comfort that even though you won’t be there, she is in God’s loving hands, and as she’s already told you -- "Mom...ya wanna know who's inside my heart?...It's YOU!" Jennisa, I am here to tell you that it will always be so.
The song I’ve attached (lyrics below) … says it better than I ever could. I guess it’s time to let Avery soar.
I will be praying for you.
Love from,
Becky
She attached the lyrics to Nickel Creek's "When You Come Back Down"
I changed my song on this blog to that song...so what I needed today!
"My school is SOOOOO cool"...
was Avery's response when we walked into our house tonight after Open House. We are very happy that she feels comfortable there and that she enjoyed herself. Now, we just have to put on a happy face... :)
Here's Avery marching with her new cool backpack on!
Still walking...
Aww....Daddy and his little Pre-Kindergarten-er...
All the kiddos got to write their names on the art easel...
This is a peek at Avery's classroom. Her teacher, Mrs. P.'s daughter was there to help out tonight. Guess what her name is...Alivia! And, there is me and Livvie watching Avery!
She loved playing in the kitchen area!
And, no joke here...Mrs. P was talking to all the parents, and this is what Avery was doing. Doing some hand-modeling and some High School Musical stuff in the mirror. Daddy and I just looked at each other...it was very funny!
And, right before we left, we had to snap a photo with Mrs. P, our teacher!
More pictures (and tears, I'm sure) to come tomorrow...Okay, so it's 1/2 hour before the preschool open house. Avery must feel me getting a little anxious about the school stuff...here's what she just said to me...
"Mom...ya wanna know who's inside my heart?...It's YOU!" Then she proceeded to run across the room and give me a big hug...
*sigh* I am so in love with her...
I've been busy doing some fun bloggie design stuff!
Go check out the blogs I've pimped!
Tonight is "Open House" at preschool.
Avery woke up this morning and said, "Mommy...today is the night where I get to meet all my school friends! And, today is the last day I stay home. Tomorrow I go to school!!!!"
We're excited for her, we're nervous for her, and most of all, I don't know what emotions I will be feeling tomorrow morning at 8:20 when I hug her and say, "See you in 3 hours"...
I was looking through my old posts the other day, and I came across these 2...
It will be such a sad day...
I did it...sigh...
Nana and Bapa (and Sophie) got here late Thursday night, and we were SO hyper and excited when they arrived! Friday, we had to experience Nana and Bapa to the world of High School Musical, so they got to watch both of the movies with Avery! Here they are during one of the movies! Notice, Avery is wearing her HSM2 shirt! :)
Livvie enjoyed having her grandparents here. She loved it when they took her on walks, and really enjoyed when Bapa would take her outside and let her walk on the grass. Heck, she even enjoyed Sophie, and especially playing with her leash!
We ate at Z'Kota Grille almost every meal. Because of Avery's limited diet, it's one of the only places in our town that serves hot dogs and french fries. I am SICK of Z'kota, and glad I won't be going back there........ till Wednesday, when I will be taking Avery for her first day of school lunch (courtesy of Nana and Bapa, of course)...
After church today, and after we ate at Z'kota again, Nana took Avery to Walmart to get her a "surprise". Avery had just gotten a new bed earlier this week, and so Nana took her to pick out a new pillow case and blanket! We all thought she would pick out the High School Musical stuff, but nope...she's still just a little girl at heart. She picked out The Little Mermaid...Thanks Nana!
The blanket is really so soft and cuddly! I think I'll have to steal a few naps with it myself! :)
Avery likes to take pictures with our camera, and here is one she took of Sophie, Nana, and Livvie today! She did a great job, I think!
So, thanks for visiting Nana and Bapa! I know there are no photos of Daddy (or I), but he had to work a lot, and I was busy taking the pictures! :)
Hope you all had a fant-abulous weekend!
We are SO excited that Nana Dianne, Bapa Craig, and puppy Sophie are coming to visit tonight! YIPPIE! It is always nice to see my parents, and they really enjoy spending time with Avery and Livvie too! I think their jaws will drop when they see how much Livvie has grown up in just a month or two! My mom even mentioned that PG and I should go out on a date while they're here! It rarely happens, so I wonder if we'll have anything to talk about! :)
Since it has been like 4 1/2 years since I've had a "baby", I'm at a loss on something...
How in the world am I suppose to transition Livvie from a bottle (that she's been used to for 10 months) to a sippy cup? I've tried putting a sippy cup in her mouth with some apple juice, but she's just not interested or doesn't know what she's doing.
So if any of you have any great ideas, or a fabulous sippy cup to try out, I'm all ears!
We went over to Avery's preschool today to meet her teacher and chat a bit about her allergies. We got to see her classroom, look at the sensory table, check out circle time, and also see where she gets to hang her backpack and put her school supplies...
I feel bad about asking for a 'peanut free' classroom for Avery, but the teacher was very supportive and said, "We'll do whatever is best for Avery"...
I think it's going to be a good experience for her (and me too!)...
One week from today, we have the "open house" at Avery's preschool. Then, on Wednesday morning at 8:15, I have to let my baby be under the supervision of another for 3 hours...
I think I need to up my meds...
Cartoon by Dave Walker. Find more cartoons you can freely re-use on your blog at We Blog Cartoons.
When I left for work this afternoon, Liv was a crying mess. She was sooooo sad that mommy was leaving. I just hated that, so I went into the garage and brought her in a small bike that we had. Avery got this for her 1st birthday, and I didn't quite know if Livvie would know what to do with it, but what the hey, right? It helped distract her, and she stopped crying.
When I got home, I asked Daddy if Liv liked playing with it, and he said, "Oh yeah! She figured it out right away, and even stood on it!" When I looked at him with my mouth WIDE open, he promptly said "But, it's okay...she'll be fine!"
Livvie decided to show me her moves tonight. Keep in mind...this is only a 10 month old...
Ummm....what do you think you're doing?
seriously...this isn't very safe Livvie...
Avery thought it was pretty funny! Liv liked pushing her around!
I tell ya, dressing up little girls is just way too much fun for me!For the last week or so, before bedtime, Daddy has been telling Avery this awesome love story that is truly amazing! It is the most self-sacrificing, most genuine love story I have every heard. He's only a couple chapters into it, but already, we wanted you all to hear about it, and RUN (not walk) out to your local book stores to get it for your children....You might be surprised at the title... go HERE to find out what it's called...
Here is a sample of a couple pages...just because I really want you to get a taste of why it's so amazing...
"It's an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It's a love story about a brave Prince who leaves his palace, his throne - everything - to rescue the one he loves. It's like the most wonderful of fairy tales that has come true in real life!
You see, the best thing about this Story is - it's true. There are lots of stories in the Bible, but all the stories are telling one Big Story. The Story of how God loves his children and comes to rescue them.
It takes the whole Bible to tell this Story. And at the center of the Story, there is a baby. Every Story in the Bible whispers his name. He is like the missing piece in a puzzle - the piece that makes all the other pieces fit together, and suddenly you can see a beautiful picture.
And this is no ordinary baby. This is the Child on which everything would depend. This is the Child who would one day... - but wait. Our Story starts where all good stories start. Right at the very beginning..."
Doesn't that make you want to read on. Like I said, RUN, don't walk, out to your book stores this weekend and pick one up...It truly is the greatest love story you can share with your child!
Only 2 months till you are 1...seriously? I guess I better start planning a party!My mother requested another video of Livvie walking...
(I love my husband's "Whoa" at the end :))
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While we were in A-TOWN, Nana Judy and Aunt Holly got out some old photos. I had to snag up this one of Daddy as a baby. We all sure think that Livvie is a "little Daddy"! What do you think?
13 things on my "to do list" that I'm not doing because I'm lazy...
1. take a shower (check)
2. do the dishes (check)
3. do the laundry (check)
4. tidy up the house (1/6 check)
5. work on Sunday School stuff
6. clean out the fridge and throw out moldy stuff (1/2 check)
7. go through toys in the basement and sell some of them (I listed 3 things on ebay today)
8. paint my toenails (check)
9. pluck my eyebrows (check)
10. scan in some photos for another blog post (check)
11. put some make up on (I look awful) (1/2 check)
12. get the girls dressed for the day (1/2 check)
13. go back to sleep (only in my dreams...) (I did get an hour nap today)
2. do the dishes (check)
3. do the laundry (check)
4. tidy up the house (1/6 check)
5. work on Sunday School stuff
6. clean out the fridge and throw out moldy stuff (1/2 check)
7. go through toys in the basement and sell some of them (I listed 3 things on ebay today)
8. paint my toenails (check)
9. pluck my eyebrows (check)
10. scan in some photos for another blog post (check)
11. put some make up on (I look awful) (1/2 check)
12. get the girls dressed for the day (1/2 check)
13. go back to sleep (only in my dreams...) (I did get an hour nap today)
Since I have to be surrounded by High School Musical 2, I thought you should be too! Here are some of the songs that are sung by my family all day, every day...
I, probably like most people, only like certain colors of candies. With Skittles, Starbursts, and Sour Patch Kids, I only like the red/pink/orange ones....
Why don't these companies JUST make these colors? I'd be the first in line! Who needs the green/yellow ones anyhow?!
from a refreshing time in A-TOWN! Lots of shopping, sleeping, EATING, laughing, talking, and trying to keep my eye on both of my girls at the same time...
The weather was a bit icky, so we didn't get to go to the County Fair...ho hum...We did manage to swim, but only lasted about 15 minutes till Avery was shivering too much that she needed to "go put on some long-sleeves."
We were glued to the TV for 2 nights...for High School Musical 1, and then on Thursday, for High School Musical 2. Apparently we weren't the only ones who watched it...check out these stats:
High School Musical 2’s TV debut was
- The most-watched basic cable television program of all time.
- The most-watched basic cable movie of all time.
- The highest-rated television program ever for children age 6 to 11.
- The most-viewed Friday television telecast, cable or broadcast, in the past five years.
Here is Avery in her High School Musical shirt, with her new Gabriella Montez doll (that sings)!
Liv discovered her voice. She loved practicing it out all the time....especially in church! She is such a little busy girl. She kept getting away from us and getting over by the dog food. She didn't eat any, but Daddy did have to fish a piece out of her mouth! Here is Livvie with Libby...cute huh? Livvie and Libby!
And, here are my 2 gals at lunch today before our trip home! We had a very fun time, but it is nice to be back at home...
Our family is leaving tomorrow for a trip up to Gavin's parents house in A-TOWN! It's the first Sunday he has had off from church since Liv was born (almost 10 months ago). We'll be doing some shopping, visiting FUN Land, swimming in Nana and Bapa's pool, sleeping, playing games, and of course, watching High School Musical 2 Friday night at 7 pm!
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Be back on Sunday night! :)
Well, the haircut didn't turn out to be as great as I had hoped...isn't that how it always goes? I didn't end up looking like any of the photos I took her. BUT, my hair is cut, and it is healthy now. It sure was long and bushy!
This is how being a pastor's wife feels today......
UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU
UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRR
RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
RRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG
GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG
GGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
feels so good to get that off my chest...
I'm going in for a hair cut tomorrow at 3:30. I feel the need for a change!
I'm not going to do anything drastic, just different.
Here are a few ideas I have...
I'm not going to do anything drastic, just different.
Here are a few ideas I have...
I like this one a lot. I like the layers,
but I would get it shorter than this gal...
probably like shoulder length..
Or, I could go a little more crazy,
and get a little bit more off of it
like my FAVE gal, Kelly Clarkson!
I am trying to find a fun website to look for a hairstyle,
but having no luck. So, opinions, please!
UPDATE: I found this photo, and I really like the blunt cut with layers mixed in. I think I'm going to go with this one...withouth the bangs, and maybe a tad shorter though? I dunno.... :)
I have been bad at posting photos lately, so I'm catching up with this post and the next one!
Avery and I went school shopping tonight. It's very bittersweet. I'm excited for her, but at the same time I can't believe she's old enough to be needing #2 pencils and a wide ruled notebook...
It was very hot and muggy tonight. That explains the foggy photo of Avery.
School supply aisle! Avery carried the list around with her, and loved to "check" off the items that we found!
Here she is with all her fun school stuff! Isn't that stripe 3 ring binder so cute! I LOVE it!
And, of course, she had to help me put her things up on the counter. School officially starts the Wednesday after Labor day, so I need to enjoy my lazy days while I still have them...
Dena thinks I'm pretty swell...I think she's darn right great, so DITTO to you Dena! She gifted me with a bloggie award! Thanks Dena!
( This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good bloggie friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration - Also for those that are a positive influence on the blogging world....Once you've been awarded feel free to pass it on to those you feel are deserving!)Here's what Miss Dena said about me: "Jennisa - Not only is she one of my BEST bloggy buddies but she is the PIMP YOUR BLOG MASTER for all of my friends!!!!"
Now, it's my turn. Who are bloggers that I think are super nice? Well, here is my list of my "nice matters" bloggie award winners...
Jamie She's a friend from high school that I just recently got back in contact with through the Internet. She is a super sweetie, and a for sure "nice matters" bloggie award winner!
Amy Just clicking on her blog makes me smile! She is just an adorable person, and I love reading about her family! I met her in bloggie world, and she is just a really great gal who deserves the "nice matters" bloggie award!
Jenn Another mommy I met in bloggie world! She is a very gifted writer, and she is such an honest, loving, Godly lady. I feel like she is just a very 'real' person. AND, she just moved into her first brand new home! CONGRATS! She also is getting my "nice matters" award!
AND, just so you know Dena....if you wouldn't have gifted me with this one, YOU would have been at the top of my list, you blog-tastic buddy of mine! :)
We have a slight booger problem at our house, you see...
A certain nameless 5 year old will not blow her nose. Not only will she not blow her nose, but I can't even get her to pick her nose! Who would've ever thought that a 5 year old would throw a fit with just the mention of putting a certain finger up her nose...
So, where does this leave me? Well, my daughter, who will still remain nameless, walks around with a stuffed up nose and boogers lodged up there...
What's a mom to do?
A couple months ago, I decided that this was enough. So, I got out the tweezers and every other day, I'd dig the fun boogers out. It didn't hurt her, but she didn't like it. It's hard to believe that she'd rather have a sharp tweezers up her nose than her own finger, but whatever...
Now, she has told me that she doesn't like the tweezers at all! I have begun using a q-tip to dig them out. Seriously...have you ever heard of such a thing?
So, today as I look at my 5 year old, who will still remain nameless, and hear her talk all stuffed up, I know what I will have to do today. Yes, I tried to show her this finger she could use to get them out, but no...she won't do it.
Off to go and get my q-tip again...
Do y'all have any other ideas (besides the nose-sucker) as to how to get boogers out of a nameless 5 year old's nose?
**As I read this to her, she said "Of course I'll use my finger, someday!"
The bride from the wedding Avery was in, sent me some more photos! She sure loved to pose that day!
I have been crazy busy with doing the bloggie design stuff! Thanks to all of you who keep sending your friends my way!
Have you heard of High School Musical? Just in case you haven't heard anything about it, I'll fill you in on the phenomena that is High School Musical...
Yes, my 5 year old is obsessed...she sings the songs day and night and plays out scenes from the show...very funny!
Last night Avery and I went to Walmart. I feel like I've been swallowed by this High School Musical. It was everywhere! We ended up leaving with a fun shirt for her, and a birthday card from the show. I saw another mother getting a shirt for her daughter who looked similar in age of Avery. We looked at each other, and I said "Aren't our daughters too young to obsessed with this show?" She agreed! I guess it's the modern day "Grease"...without the smoking, motor-heads, pregnancy, and general taste-less-ness. It is actually a fun show. High School Musical 2 will be on Disney Channel next Friday night at 7...in case you haven't heard by now...
Today, Daddy brought her home a CD with 5 songs he downloaded from I Tunes. I have been playing Troy Bolton, and Avery has been playing Gabrillea Montez. Wish you could see our own little version of High School Musical...
I'm sure there will be photos to follow, but this is what my days have been filled with... :)
My mom has requested a video of Livvie walking.
Here she is, in all of her glory!
(NO comments on how terribly messy my living room is...I already know!)
I'm not getting emails anymore when comments are left here! Is anyone else having this problem? I've went through my settings, and all is well ... but, still no emails! URGH ... blogger... you are on the naughty list today!
I have been having some luck with my attempt to get Avery some fun back to school clothes off of Ebay. I realized something early on...people pay a lot for things! I was able to snag up a few items for her, and there's more to come!
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