Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Hodge Podge
I sure hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Did you eat a lot, travel and shop? We did only two of those this year and that was eat a lot and shop. We stayed here in town and enjoyed turkey day at my folks house. It was very low key and uneventful. We ate, looked at black Friday ads and watched some football. We arrived back at our home that evening, got the kids settled and browsed some great black Friday deals online. Let me just say, that is the way to shop! No getting up early, waiting in line for hours, just to find out the item you were after sold out 10 people before you. We found some steals in the comfort of our own home! Y'all should try it next year, you won't regret it.
Friday was a day that couldn't have been more lazy. We did absolutely nothing. While it was nice to rest, I fe
lt like such a bum. Productivity was zero. No dishes were washed, no laundry was folded...........(yawn)....whew, I'm getting sleepy just thinking about it.
Saturday was a big day here in Alabama. The Iron Bowl came to the loveliest village on the plains and we were there to see every last bit of it. Unfortunately, Alabama pulled out a win but revenge is sweet I guess. Disappointment was obvious to most Auburn fans as they started to clear the stadium with 9 minutes left in the game. We may have lost but I still love some Auburn football, and we were there until the end cheering for our Tigers. War Eagle! We can try again next year.
Some family came in town late Saturday night. I wish it was for better reasons. Aric and his sisters lost a sweet mentor they had known for a long time, so a funeral was the reason for the visit. It was, however, a nice visit. Everyone left Sunday after the funeral. The long Thanksgiving weekend came to an end and then Christmas started.
I just love the Christmas season. We will be moving and traveling this year, so it will be very busy but it still means that we get to celebrate Christ's birth, and that is just fun!
Switching gears and re-winding for a minute, Savannah turned 3 on November 20. We didn't have a party this year. We kept it simple yet fun. She had a special birthday breakfast of mini pancakes, at church, her class sang Happy Birthday, and later that day we, opened presents from Grammy and Gramps and had birthday cake. Our present to Savannah was a trip to Toys R Us where we let her pick out one gift. What did she choose? 3 $.99 containers of Play Doh! We got her a set that includeda little mini desk so she would have something to play on. All in all, it was a good fun day and Savannah was so very happy.
Well, that's all I've got for this morning. I would type more but trying to blog on my phone is hard. Go me for getting this far!
I hope y'all have a wonderful, happy day!
Blessings,
Emily
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Thanks
Well, we've been TERRIBLE about getting posts to the blog this year... Ever since we disconnected our Internet at the house, it's just so hard to think of getting on here and posting updates. PLEASE FORGIVE US!!!
We have had a BUSY, BUSY year! The new house in Prattville is nearly completed now - we're potentially going to be ready to close within the next week or so - WOW! We look forward to getting in and getting settled and then welcoming our family and friends into our new home. Please do NOT be shy about coming by to see us!
We have also been busy with the old house - we've had so many repairs done this year, we have actually enjoyed living in it in recent weeks and months! LOL!!! However, we did have one particularly fun go of things last week when the main water supply line from the city's meter to our house decided to rupture - and, of COURSE, that happened on a day that we had someone coming by to view the house!!! Well, we've got that replaced now, so (hopefully) someone will see that as another added benefit not typically found in older homes and will decide to snap it up! :) We are praying fervently to the Lord that He will bring another family into this home that He can bless in the same way that He has blessed us over the years that we've been here. Emily and I met, wed, and had two children while living in this house and we are TREMENDOUSLY thankful for the times we have shared together inside those walls. (However, we are definitely excited to see the day when those walls are occupied by somebody else and we can move on to the next chapter in our lives and to our new home!)
Savannah & Thomas are both just as precious as ever... Thomas is "cruising", but just hasn't quite gotten up the courage to take off and start walking yet - which is fine by me because he's SO busy and we know things are going to get even more "interesting" once he can run instead of crawling! Savannah is smart as all GET OUT and even more beautiful. I can't even begin to describe how proud we are of our two children.
Work is still going strong - we're blessed to still have plenty of work to keep us busy, especially in an environment and a market where that is so very rare. God is so good to us and we give Him thanks for the blessing of stress and difficulty in trying to keep up with everything!
Our families are doing relatively well - Aric's parents ("Nana & Popsie") have gotten settled into their new home in Kentucky and have gone about remodeling the whole thing from the top-down. Mary Beth is still running 120mph, chasing after Lane & Lorilee who have just completely grown up ALL OF THE SUDDEN. Shari is enjoying a continuing "honeymoon period" with Wesley - can't believe they've already been married for TWO YEARS!!! And, NOW, Kristen has decided to take off for Nashville and is doing very well in this first chapter of her career as a nurse. We'll miss seeing everyone for Thanksgiving, but we can't wait to get together for Christmas this year!!! :)
Emily's parents ("Grammy & Gramps") are doing well, but are having a hard time dealing with the continued decline in the health of Emily's grandfather ("HaHa"). Katie is doing relatively well, and is now working at a big resort down there near the beach and says she really enjoys her job. She had a nasty spill a while back, but has recovered well and is still pounding the pavement when she can. We're HOPING we can host the Hoppers (and maybe Kristen too) for Thanksgiving this year, but we won't exactly be settled into the new house yet, so who knows...?
Anyway, that's about all from the land of the Lobensteins for now. We hope you are all doing well - please don't be strangers!!! Keep in touch and let us know how we can pray for you and your loved ones. 'Til then, may God's blessings be both abundant AND obvious in your lives.
We have had a BUSY, BUSY year! The new house in Prattville is nearly completed now - we're potentially going to be ready to close within the next week or so - WOW! We look forward to getting in and getting settled and then welcoming our family and friends into our new home. Please do NOT be shy about coming by to see us!
We have also been busy with the old house - we've had so many repairs done this year, we have actually enjoyed living in it in recent weeks and months! LOL!!! However, we did have one particularly fun go of things last week when the main water supply line from the city's meter to our house decided to rupture - and, of COURSE, that happened on a day that we had someone coming by to view the house!!! Well, we've got that replaced now, so (hopefully) someone will see that as another added benefit not typically found in older homes and will decide to snap it up! :) We are praying fervently to the Lord that He will bring another family into this home that He can bless in the same way that He has blessed us over the years that we've been here. Emily and I met, wed, and had two children while living in this house and we are TREMENDOUSLY thankful for the times we have shared together inside those walls. (However, we are definitely excited to see the day when those walls are occupied by somebody else and we can move on to the next chapter in our lives and to our new home!)
Savannah & Thomas are both just as precious as ever... Thomas is "cruising", but just hasn't quite gotten up the courage to take off and start walking yet - which is fine by me because he's SO busy and we know things are going to get even more "interesting" once he can run instead of crawling! Savannah is smart as all GET OUT and even more beautiful. I can't even begin to describe how proud we are of our two children.
Work is still going strong - we're blessed to still have plenty of work to keep us busy, especially in an environment and a market where that is so very rare. God is so good to us and we give Him thanks for the blessing of stress and difficulty in trying to keep up with everything!
Our families are doing relatively well - Aric's parents ("Nana & Popsie") have gotten settled into their new home in Kentucky and have gone about remodeling the whole thing from the top-down. Mary Beth is still running 120mph, chasing after Lane & Lorilee who have just completely grown up ALL OF THE SUDDEN. Shari is enjoying a continuing "honeymoon period" with Wesley - can't believe they've already been married for TWO YEARS!!! And, NOW, Kristen has decided to take off for Nashville and is doing very well in this first chapter of her career as a nurse. We'll miss seeing everyone for Thanksgiving, but we can't wait to get together for Christmas this year!!! :)
Emily's parents ("Grammy & Gramps") are doing well, but are having a hard time dealing with the continued decline in the health of Emily's grandfather ("HaHa"). Katie is doing relatively well, and is now working at a big resort down there near the beach and says she really enjoys her job. She had a nasty spill a while back, but has recovered well and is still pounding the pavement when she can. We're HOPING we can host the Hoppers (and maybe Kristen too) for Thanksgiving this year, but we won't exactly be settled into the new house yet, so who knows...?
Anyway, that's about all from the land of the Lobensteins for now. We hope you are all doing well - please don't be strangers!!! Keep in touch and let us know how we can pray for you and your loved ones. 'Til then, may God's blessings be both abundant AND obvious in your lives.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Update
Hello family and friends!
I'm sorry we've been so absent from our blogging in recent months... We started doing some renovation projects to our house to get it ready to market for sale and those took longer than expected and we wound up disconnecting our Internet connection altogether. Then, since we only have a few months until the new house will be completed, we've just never bothered to reconnect the Internet or hook the computer back up. As it turns out, that was a really cool move because we've converted our office into a play room where Savannah and Thomas can keep their toys and play together. We have a BLAST in there together!
Regarding the new house, things are progressing nicely... We've got all the framing completed, the roof is on, all the rough plumbing and electrical is done, and the bath tubs & shower are all in place. It's looking good and we're really getting excited as we see it all coming together! This week, we should be getting brick and sheetrock, and then we'll follow that with paint, cabinets, and floor coverings. We're really seeing a light at the end of the tunnel a LOT faster than we expected to!!! (Now if we could just hold still long enough to get the rest of the checklist items completed on the old house so we could go ahead and get it listed on the market!!!)
Savannah and Thomas are both doing great. Savannah is learning at exponential speeds and constantly surprises me with all the new things she knows and does. Thomas is a doggone monkey and loves to climb on everything. I can't believe that he will be a YEAR old in less than a week! And then, Savannah will be THREE years old in less than three months!!! Where did the time go???
Anyway, just wanted to check in and let everyone know we haven't fallen off the face of the planet. We hope you are all well and that God's blessings are as abundant in your lives as He has been in ours lately.
I'm sorry we've been so absent from our blogging in recent months... We started doing some renovation projects to our house to get it ready to market for sale and those took longer than expected and we wound up disconnecting our Internet connection altogether. Then, since we only have a few months until the new house will be completed, we've just never bothered to reconnect the Internet or hook the computer back up. As it turns out, that was a really cool move because we've converted our office into a play room where Savannah and Thomas can keep their toys and play together. We have a BLAST in there together!
Regarding the new house, things are progressing nicely... We've got all the framing completed, the roof is on, all the rough plumbing and electrical is done, and the bath tubs & shower are all in place. It's looking good and we're really getting excited as we see it all coming together! This week, we should be getting brick and sheetrock, and then we'll follow that with paint, cabinets, and floor coverings. We're really seeing a light at the end of the tunnel a LOT faster than we expected to!!! (Now if we could just hold still long enough to get the rest of the checklist items completed on the old house so we could go ahead and get it listed on the market!!!)
Savannah and Thomas are both doing great. Savannah is learning at exponential speeds and constantly surprises me with all the new things she knows and does. Thomas is a doggone monkey and loves to climb on everything. I can't believe that he will be a YEAR old in less than a week! And then, Savannah will be THREE years old in less than three months!!! Where did the time go???
Anyway, just wanted to check in and let everyone know we haven't fallen off the face of the planet. We hope you are all well and that God's blessings are as abundant in your lives as He has been in ours lately.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Taking a sabbatical
Hey y'all!
We have started some major home improvements over the past few weeks so we had to disconnect our home computer in order to move our "office" to storage.
Sorry for the delay in blogging but it may be awhile longer before we have everything up and running.
Right now, I am using the computer lab at our wonderful library in downtown Montgomery. I have Thomas with me so this will be short and sweet.
Please stay tuned! My blogging days are not over!
Have a wonderful day and remember..... "This is the day the Lord has made." Psalm 118:24
We have started some major home improvements over the past few weeks so we had to disconnect our home computer in order to move our "office" to storage.
Sorry for the delay in blogging but it may be awhile longer before we have everything up and running.
Right now, I am using the computer lab at our wonderful library in downtown Montgomery. I have Thomas with me so this will be short and sweet.
Please stay tuned! My blogging days are not over!
Have a wonderful day and remember..... "This is the day the Lord has made." Psalm 118:24
Monday, March 14, 2011
Changing the World
Hello All -
This is Aric, making a very rare appearance on the Blog... I just wanted to send out a quick note to let everyone know that Emily and the Leaders have arrived successfully in Wiggins, MS and have begun their work. World Changers is the organization they are working with and they are doing several construction and renovation projects to a home that was beaten and battered by Hurricane Katrina. Yes, there are still a LOT of people in the greater Gulf Coast region that are trying to recover from that massive storm all those many years ago! Anyway, they got down there last night; got settled into the church where they are staying; and had some devotional time with the other groups that are participating in this mission trip over Spring Break.
I am sure Emily will post an update with more details about the goings-on and the work they do this week once she gets back, but I at least wanted everyone to know they are there and are working hard. Please pray for this group as they attempt to help change the world, one small piece at a time, through a demonstration of Christ's love for others and through the spreading of the Good News with those that they encounter. May God bless those that the Leaders are helping and may this experience be a blessing for the Leaders as well! And, may God bless each and every one of our family and friends who are reading this. We love you all and hope you are well!
This is Aric, making a very rare appearance on the Blog... I just wanted to send out a quick note to let everyone know that Emily and the Leaders have arrived successfully in Wiggins, MS and have begun their work. World Changers is the organization they are working with and they are doing several construction and renovation projects to a home that was beaten and battered by Hurricane Katrina. Yes, there are still a LOT of people in the greater Gulf Coast region that are trying to recover from that massive storm all those many years ago! Anyway, they got down there last night; got settled into the church where they are staying; and had some devotional time with the other groups that are participating in this mission trip over Spring Break.
I am sure Emily will post an update with more details about the goings-on and the work they do this week once she gets back, but I at least wanted everyone to know they are there and are working hard. Please pray for this group as they attempt to help change the world, one small piece at a time, through a demonstration of Christ's love for others and through the spreading of the Good News with those that they encounter. May God bless those that the Leaders are helping and may this experience be a blessing for the Leaders as well! And, may God bless each and every one of our family and friends who are reading this. We love you all and hope you are well!
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Katie...update
Last week, I went down to Fairhope to help out my sister. She was literally, helpless. I felt so bad for her but kept her spirits high while I was there. I went down on Monday and came back Wednesday night. She had a doctors appointment Tuesday morning and it went very well. The doctor was hopeful that she will be running again and as for right now, no more surgeries in the future! She will have to be on crutches, however, for about 6-12 weeks and it is going to be at least 6 months before she can do any type of exercise. And when she does get to that point, it will have to be low impact, like water aerobics, cycling, etc.
She is doing a little bit more every day. When I first arrived, she couldn't even get dressed without help, now, she can SLOWLY do it herself.
For my sister, this is a very hard thing. She has lived on her own now for 5+ years and is not used to really relying on people for things. It is VERY HARD for her to ask for help. She is getting used to the fact that she is going to need help and it is OK to ask for help.
I am going to brag on her running club for a minute. These people are AWESOME! They have been taking her to her doctor appointments, bringing food, going to the grocery store, walking her dog....need I go on. And the best thing is, they do it with a joyful heart. Katie is very lucky to have such sweet friends. Of course, I am not forgetting about my parents, they have been a huge help too, but I was just amazed at how her friends have really stepped up to help out. With me not getting down there to visit very often, I don't get to meet a lot of her friends but this past week, I had the pleasure of meeting a few of them.
Moving right along, once I got home Wednesday night, I was POOPED! Taking care of an adult, a toddler, an infant and yourself is not an easy task. I totally have MUCH more respect for single parents out there. Especially single parents of 2 or more kids. I don't know how they do it! All of that being said, I was glad to help out. I wish I could have stayed longer but I sure did miss the husband. I might actually make another trip depending on her progress. Katie will go back to the doctor in 2 weeks for another check up on things she will also have some PT. We will just see how things go and move from there.
I don't know if I have mentioned this before but I am going on a mission trip in just a few days! I am going with the Leaders Club down to Wiggins, MS to help out with World Changers. I will be going down with 11 of our teenagers with Leaders Club and 2 other adults. The fun thing about this particular trip is that it is not only my first mission trip, I am also leading it! God is giving me an opportunity of a lifetime here! Once we get to Wiggins, MS, we will be staying at FBC of Wiggins and will be working on a house that was hit by Katrina. Please pray for our group as enter this mission field. We will be leaving this Sunday around 9AM and coming back Wednesday afternoon. For more info, go to www.world-changers.net.
Thomas had his 6 month well check up earlier this week. Is now 14lbs 6.5oz and 26 inches long. He is sitting up by himself, rolling over, grabbing EVERYTHING (including my hair...ouch!) He has the sweetest little laugh and is doing very well on baby food. We started stage 2 last night! Sleeping through the night is still a struggle but with the problems we have had with Savannah, this is nothing new for us.
Tomorrow we are having some men from our small group from church coming over to help Aric on the house. We are trying to get itfixed up fixed to sell. We are VERY fortunate to know these people that are coming help and hopefully the work they help us with will help get our house looking better.
I apologize that this blog entry is late and a little scatttered. I actually started typing this last week when I got back from Fairhope. Our week has just been so busy!
I will post some more about the mission trip when I get back. I can't wait to share what God has done!
Happy Friday y'all!
Emily
She is doing a little bit more every day. When I first arrived, she couldn't even get dressed without help, now, she can SLOWLY do it herself.
For my sister, this is a very hard thing. She has lived on her own now for 5+ years and is not used to really relying on people for things. It is VERY HARD for her to ask for help. She is getting used to the fact that she is going to need help and it is OK to ask for help.
I am going to brag on her running club for a minute. These people are AWESOME! They have been taking her to her doctor appointments, bringing food, going to the grocery store, walking her dog....need I go on. And the best thing is, they do it with a joyful heart. Katie is very lucky to have such sweet friends. Of course, I am not forgetting about my parents, they have been a huge help too, but I was just amazed at how her friends have really stepped up to help out. With me not getting down there to visit very often, I don't get to meet a lot of her friends but this past week, I had the pleasure of meeting a few of them.
Moving right along, once I got home Wednesday night, I was POOPED! Taking care of an adult, a toddler, an infant and yourself is not an easy task. I totally have MUCH more respect for single parents out there. Especially single parents of 2 or more kids. I don't know how they do it! All of that being said, I was glad to help out. I wish I could have stayed longer but I sure did miss the husband. I might actually make another trip depending on her progress. Katie will go back to the doctor in 2 weeks for another check up on things she will also have some PT. We will just see how things go and move from there.
I don't know if I have mentioned this before but I am going on a mission trip in just a few days! I am going with the Leaders Club down to Wiggins, MS to help out with World Changers. I will be going down with 11 of our teenagers with Leaders Club and 2 other adults. The fun thing about this particular trip is that it is not only my first mission trip, I am also leading it! God is giving me an opportunity of a lifetime here! Once we get to Wiggins, MS, we will be staying at FBC of Wiggins and will be working on a house that was hit by Katrina. Please pray for our group as enter this mission field. We will be leaving this Sunday around 9AM and coming back Wednesday afternoon. For more info, go to www.world-changers.net.
Thomas had his 6 month well check up earlier this week. Is now 14lbs 6.5oz and 26 inches long. He is sitting up by himself, rolling over, grabbing EVERYTHING (including my hair...ouch!) He has the sweetest little laugh and is doing very well on baby food. We started stage 2 last night! Sleeping through the night is still a struggle but with the problems we have had with Savannah, this is nothing new for us.
Tomorrow we are having some men from our small group from church coming over to help Aric on the house. We are trying to get it
I apologize that this blog entry is late and a little scatttered. I actually started typing this last week when I got back from Fairhope. Our week has just been so busy!
I will post some more about the mission trip when I get back. I can't wait to share what God has done!
Happy Friday y'all!
Emily
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Katie
My sister had an accident Tuesday night while with her running group. She fell and dislocated her hip. For those of you who don't know her she is an avid runner. She recently completed her first marathon in under 4 hours! Holy Cow that is awesome!
She has been a runner now for a while and loves it. Most people have kids, or craft hobbies or something they really enjoy, well, running is IT for her. Not saying that is all she does but she really enjoys it and is REALLY good at it. Anywho, my sweet sister lives in Fairhope and has a sweet boyfriend, pictured here
Darin has been helping her since the accident but he is a civilian contractor and has been in Afghanistan for over a year now, he has to return home this weekend so he can go back to Afghanistan.
So, to the grimy details. After she fell, her running group called 911 and she got rushed to the hospital. First of all, let me just PRAISE GOD that she was with some people. Katie runs by herself often and had she been by herself, I don't even want to know what would have happened.
They tried to put her hip back in place but it just wasn't happening. They did a surgery to try and repair it and while in surgery they found that some bone had been broken off when her hip dislocated. While that surgery helped a little, she had to then see a specialist to see if further surgery will be needed and they concluded that more surgery would be the answer. That was decided today. She will have surgery in the AM at USA in Mobile.
My mom just had cateract surgery today and will be going to help my sister out after her follow up appointment on her eyes tomorrow morning.
Once my sister is released from the hospital, which will probably be Sunday, I will pack up the kids and head down there to help out.
Please say a prayer for Katie. I realize it could have been a lot worse but she is really shaken up over this whole thing. She is worried that she may never be able to run again and if she can run, that she won't be able to run fast.
Also if you could pray for me as I journey with my two kids to help out. Aric will have to work so I will be traveling by my lonesome.
Katie, if you are reading this, we love you. Hang in there. God knows the plans He has for you. No matter what happens, remember to praise Him and give Him glory. He will never leave you or forsake you.
Unfortunately this is the most recent pic I could find of me and the sister. I guess I need to do a better job of taking pictures!
Katie finishing at "Make it to the line" 4 mile run at the Flora-Bama
She has been a runner now for a while and loves it. Most people have kids, or craft hobbies or something they really enjoy, well, running is IT for her. Not saying that is all she does but she really enjoys it and is REALLY good at it. Anywho, my sweet sister lives in Fairhope and has a sweet boyfriend, pictured here
Darin has been helping her since the accident but he is a civilian contractor and has been in Afghanistan for over a year now, he has to return home this weekend so he can go back to Afghanistan.
So, to the grimy details. After she fell, her running group called 911 and she got rushed to the hospital. First of all, let me just PRAISE GOD that she was with some people. Katie runs by herself often and had she been by herself, I don't even want to know what would have happened.
They tried to put her hip back in place but it just wasn't happening. They did a surgery to try and repair it and while in surgery they found that some bone had been broken off when her hip dislocated. While that surgery helped a little, she had to then see a specialist to see if further surgery will be needed and they concluded that more surgery would be the answer. That was decided today. She will have surgery in the AM at USA in Mobile.
My mom just had cateract surgery today and will be going to help my sister out after her follow up appointment on her eyes tomorrow morning.
Once my sister is released from the hospital, which will probably be Sunday, I will pack up the kids and head down there to help out.
Please say a prayer for Katie. I realize it could have been a lot worse but she is really shaken up over this whole thing. She is worried that she may never be able to run again and if she can run, that she won't be able to run fast.
Also if you could pray for me as I journey with my two kids to help out. Aric will have to work so I will be traveling by my lonesome.
Katie, if you are reading this, we love you. Hang in there. God knows the plans He has for you. No matter what happens, remember to praise Him and give Him glory. He will never leave you or forsake you.
Unfortunately this is the most recent pic I could find of me and the sister. I guess I need to do a better job of taking pictures!
Katie finishing at "Make it to the line" 4 mile run at the Flora-Bama
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Spring weather and a few other warm thoughts
How about this beautiful weather? I wish it was like this year round. The problem with that is, I would never get anything done because I would want to be outside all the time! I must say, this warmer weather will perk up anyone's spirits and give you that much needed encouragement to lose those pesky pounds you've been storing all winter. (preaching to myself here)
As my thoughts wander to an image of a slimmer self, I digress. I am going to enjoy this weather and make the most of it. Before we know it, it may be snowing again...hey, it is Alabama we're talking about here!
Some exciting news to share...Savannah has been going potty lately, A LOT! While she is still not 100% potty trained, she is making big steps in the right direction. Aric and I decided we wouldn't push potty training too hard but, since she has been showing major interest, we decided we needed to start being consistent and start encouraging her more. The cutest thing is, and I'm sure only a parent would appreciate this, but, she will get SO EXCITED after she does her business. I LOVE IT and can't help but to get excited with her. I like to make a big deal out of it so I pull out all the happiness that you can get from singing, to dancing even cheering. Can any other parent's relate to this? Please say yes and make me feel better :)
Thomas is getting bigger by the day and cuter ;)
Last night I gave the kids a bath togeher and it was the cutest thing to watch them. Thomas really likes to study Savannah a lot and Savannah loves to entertain Thomas. At one point in time during bath time, Thomas started splashing in the baby tub which I put in the big tub with Savannah, and both of them, at the same exact time, started to laugh. Thomas had his cute little baby squeak of a laugh and Savannah had her sweet toddler cackle. It just warmed my heart to hear that and all the sleepless nights and moments of defiance quickly melted away.
Some recent accomplishments of "the boy", as Aric and I like to call him, are that he has rolled over and is continuing to do so on a daily basis and he is not doing too bad in sitting up by himself. Aric reminded me this morning that Thomas will 6 months old in two weeks! Time to start planning his first birthday...j/k!
Valentine's Day was just another day around our house. We never really do much of anything and I am ok with that. Aric surprised me by taking me to lunch at Ala Thai, one of my favorites! The sweet part about that is, Aric CANNOT stand Thai food. He managed to hold down some pad thai but in the end, probably left there starving because I know he did not enjoy it at all. Oh the sweet things my hubby does for me. He adores me and I am so undeserving of it.
We have some other exciting news to share...NO, we are NOT pregnant! Don't get me wrong, if God blessed us again with another child we would be thrilled but, we are praying that he blesses us with something else right now, like.....a house! I don't want to speak too soon but, if all goes well, then we will have a house built in Prattville. This is something we have been in prayer over for a long time. We are busting at the seams in this house Aric bought way before I even met him. While I am grateful to have this house we are in now, a lot of our lifestyle is happening in Prattville and this decision to move has been in the works for some time now. Prayers are coveted right now as we embark on this new journey.
Well folks, that is it for now. I could really blog all day about many useless things but who has time for that? ;)
Now, lets all get out and enjoy this weather! (happy dance, happy dance)
Emily
As my thoughts wander to an image of a slimmer self, I digress. I am going to enjoy this weather and make the most of it. Before we know it, it may be snowing again...hey, it is Alabama we're talking about here!
Some exciting news to share...Savannah has been going potty lately, A LOT! While she is still not 100% potty trained, she is making big steps in the right direction. Aric and I decided we wouldn't push potty training too hard but, since she has been showing major interest, we decided we needed to start being consistent and start encouraging her more. The cutest thing is, and I'm sure only a parent would appreciate this, but, she will get SO EXCITED after she does her business. I LOVE IT and can't help but to get excited with her. I like to make a big deal out of it so I pull out all the happiness that you can get from singing, to dancing even cheering. Can any other parent's relate to this? Please say yes and make me feel better :)
Thomas is getting bigger by the day and cuter ;)
Last night I gave the kids a bath togeher and it was the cutest thing to watch them. Thomas really likes to study Savannah a lot and Savannah loves to entertain Thomas. At one point in time during bath time, Thomas started splashing in the baby tub which I put in the big tub with Savannah, and both of them, at the same exact time, started to laugh. Thomas had his cute little baby squeak of a laugh and Savannah had her sweet toddler cackle. It just warmed my heart to hear that and all the sleepless nights and moments of defiance quickly melted away.
Some recent accomplishments of "the boy", as Aric and I like to call him, are that he has rolled over and is continuing to do so on a daily basis and he is not doing too bad in sitting up by himself. Aric reminded me this morning that Thomas will 6 months old in two weeks! Time to start planning his first birthday...j/k!
Valentine's Day was just another day around our house. We never really do much of anything and I am ok with that. Aric surprised me by taking me to lunch at Ala Thai, one of my favorites! The sweet part about that is, Aric CANNOT stand Thai food. He managed to hold down some pad thai but in the end, probably left there starving because I know he did not enjoy it at all. Oh the sweet things my hubby does for me. He adores me and I am so undeserving of it.
We have some other exciting news to share...NO, we are NOT pregnant! Don't get me wrong, if God blessed us again with another child we would be thrilled but, we are praying that he blesses us with something else right now, like.....a house! I don't want to speak too soon but, if all goes well, then we will have a house built in Prattville. This is something we have been in prayer over for a long time. We are busting at the seams in this house Aric bought way before I even met him. While I am grateful to have this house we are in now, a lot of our lifestyle is happening in Prattville and this decision to move has been in the works for some time now. Prayers are coveted right now as we embark on this new journey.
Well folks, that is it for now. I could really blog all day about many useless things but who has time for that? ;)
Now, lets all get out and enjoy this weather! (happy dance, happy dance)
Emily
Monday, February 14, 2011
A not-so romantic Valentine...interesting!
I found this article on a website, see link below, and found it interesting. I will warn you, it is a bit lengthy but if you can take a few minutes to read it, you might just find it interesting as well. (okay, okay, I am probably the only nerd that will find it interesting)
Happy Valentine's Day!
Valentine's Day — History.com Articles, Video, Pictures and Facts
The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.
One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men — his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.
Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.
According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first "valentine" greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl — who may have been his jailor's daughter — who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed "From your Valentine," an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.
While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial — which probably occurred around 270 A.D — others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to "christianize" celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.
To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at the sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would then sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification.
The boys then sliced the goat's hide into strips, dipped them in the sacrificial blood and took to the streets, gently slapping both women and fields of crops with the goathide strips. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed being touched with the hides because it was believed the strips would make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city's bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage. Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine's Day around 498 A.D. The Roman "lottery" system for romantic pairing was deemed un-Christian and outlawed. Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February — Valentine's Day — should be a day for romance. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.
In Great Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one's feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine's Day greetings. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced valentines in America.
According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.)
Approximately 85 percent of all valentines are purchased by women. In addition to the United States, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.
Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentine's didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland. Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as "scrap."
.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Valentine's Day — History.com Articles, Video, Pictures and Facts
The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.
One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men — his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.
Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.
According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first "valentine" greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl — who may have been his jailor's daughter — who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed "From your Valentine," an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.
While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial — which probably occurred around 270 A.D — others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to "christianize" celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.
To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at the sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would then sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification.
The boys then sliced the goat's hide into strips, dipped them in the sacrificial blood and took to the streets, gently slapping both women and fields of crops with the goathide strips. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed being touched with the hides because it was believed the strips would make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city's bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage. Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine's Day around 498 A.D. The Roman "lottery" system for romantic pairing was deemed un-Christian and outlawed. Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February — Valentine's Day — should be a day for romance. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.
In Great Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one's feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine's Day greetings. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced valentines in America.
According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.)
Approximately 85 percent of all valentines are purchased by women. In addition to the United States, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.
Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentine's didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland. Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as "scrap."
.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Blog? Oh yeah, I need to do that!
Hey everyone!
It's been way too long and I have a lot to catch up on. I'll go ahead and warn you now, there won't by a lot pictures so, hang in there and get caught up with what's going on with the Lobensteins.
Christmas came and went like a whirlwind. We have decided to start rotating out Christmas and Thanksgiving between our families. For example, this year we spent Thanksgiving with Aric's family so next year we will spend Thanksgiving with my family. This year we spent Christmas with my family, next year we will spend it with Aric's family. You get the idea. I truly believe this rotation will help save a lot of headaches. It is so hard trying to visit with both families within a matter of a few days. Can anyone feel me on this? The weeks leading up to Christmas were very hectic but praise the Lord, Christmas day was very calm and enjoyable. Before we knew it, we had way too many presents and bellies full of food. God is so good with all blessings he has showered us with! (not referring to the presents here. I mean, good food, a roof over our heads and a great family!)
New Years was spent with sweet friends, The Smiths and The Sparrows. We get together every year, either before or after Christmas and do a little gift exchange. It was too fun and the kids were hilarious! I am so thankful for sweet friends in our life to lift us up and encourage us. We were home by 9pm and I just could not make it to midnight. I guess having a new baby and 2 year old will do that to you. :) Poor Aric insisted on staying up to watch the ball drop in Times Square and ending falling asleep on the couch. He didn't even get to see the ball drop!
2011 started off just as busy as 2010 ended.
Aric and I help out with an organization within the Prattville YMCA called Leaders Club. It is a Christ centered club that emphasizes the role of servant leadership while incorporating the values of the YMCA: Spirit, Mind and Body. We LOVE IT! The club has taken off and reached new heights. We work with about 40-50 teens and pre-teens every Tuesday night of the month. We also attend socials and service projects monthly with this group. We may stay busy but wouldn't trade it for anything. Working with these teens is such a blessing! God has really worked wonders in us and these teenagers; I can't wait to see where He is going to take us.
Changing subjects for a minute, and unfortunately it is not a good subject. Some of you know that my friend Brandy has been staying with us for awhile. Well, she and her dog, Huckleberry, have really been troopers. Living in a house with a 2 year old and a newborn, I'm sure, is not her idea of luxury but it has been a blast having her here with us. Her dog had become part of our family and truly felt like our dog too. (our other dogs, Kodi and Montana may have been a little jealous but they all learned to accept each other.) We came home one night to him laying in our neighbors yard. He had been hit by a car. For those of you who know where we live, our street is very busy. So busy that sometimes it is annoying. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE!
It was a sad, sad day in our household. Not too mention having to tell your best friend over the phone! That was awful! We will miss Huckleberry. I have lost several pets and for those of you that haven't, let me tell you, it is NOT easy! Brandy is doing well now and getting ready to deploy to Germany for two months. I told Brandy that I truly believe something good will come from this. Something amazing always happens after a tragedy. God has plans that we can't yet see and is using us in a mighty way!
Health. That's is the next thing that has been going on around here. My mom has been lifted up in prayer and continues to need serious prayer. Her health is not good right now. I honestly wish I could share more but, with the limited information that I am getting, that is about all I know. I will try and update as soon as I can.
As for me, I am doing well but could be better. I am scheduled to have a biopsy the first week of February. It is nothing too serious just more of a precaution. I am a little nervous but I know that God will provide and take care as he always does.
Aric's father has also had his fair share of problems. His parents are in the process of moving to Bowling Green, Kentucky so I know it is difficult for him. No matter what, we know that God is in control. We are putting everything in His hands. I'm starting to see a pattern here, no? :)
On a happier note, we recently have a made a big purchase that was MUCH NEEDED.
Introducing the MOMWAGN! (yes, that is how my new car tag reads)
We LOVE IT! I'll be quite honest, the idea of a minivan was something I did not like. It didn't seem as "cool" as an SUV. Well, I am a changed woman now. I test drove one and fell in love. It rides like a car, but feels like an SUV. The room in this thing is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. We ended up getting one that had some of the fancier options. It has a dual DVD system, leather seats, satellite radio. The sliding doors on boths sides are automatic...YES!!! No more difficult trips to the grocery store! We are extremely blessed and so thankful that God opened up this door for us!
The kiddos...oh man are they growing fast! Thomas is almost 5 months old and Savannah is such a smart little 2 year old.
She is now doing very well at putting 3-5 words together to make complete sentences. Her favorite things to say are: "Come on mommy!" and "What's that?" Savannah loves to read. At any given time during the day, she is sitting on the floor "reading" her books. She cannot read yet but hearing her jabber away is too cute. The other day she amazed us by singing her ABC's! The WHOLE Song! She was so excited she started clapping when she finished. Potty training has been a slow go thus far. She knows the potty and what you do in the potty but refuses to go. She has gone several times for Aric but when I practice with her, it is like trying to push a square block in a round circle. (BIG sigh) She loves to wash her hands, though! Potty or not, she is always saying, "wash the hands?" Our sweet Savannah can be very independent at times, wanting to wipe her own face, get in the van by herself, get dressed and even go take naps on her own. What happened to my baby??!! She also has started the terrible twos and throwing tantrums. The first real big one happend at Family Christian book store last week and I thought I was going to lose it. I remained calm, not drawing any more attention than I had too. I tucked her under my arms like a football and we left. It was awful! I don't know the best way to handle those but I was the mom with that child out in public. Oh well, hopefully this phase won't last too long. She is very well behaved overall and we are very pleased with her calm demeanor.
Thomas is such a sweet boy. He has been sleeping through the night ok up until recently. We just went to Mississippi this past weekend to visit Aric's sister. We didn't get on the road until late Friday night and that messed up Thomas's sleeping pattern. Since then he has been waking up during the night several times. It is hard but we know that it will be short lived once he can get back on his normal routine. (We can put him down between 9 and 10 and he will usually sleep until about 6.)
He has been laughing a lot lately. Every time I play with him, his little face just lights up! He is reaching out very well and very close to rolling over. He is not quite sitting up yet but we practice a little bit every day.
At his 4 month check up he weighed in at 12lbs 10oz and was 24 inches long. Savannah was little heavier and shorter at 14lbs 1 oz and 23 inches long.
Savannah loves being a big sister. She helps out with Thomas every chance she can get. I cannot wait until they can play together!
Our church family has been awesome! Centerpoint is growing and relationships are being restored every day! We recently became part of a Connect Group. As they say, "Centerpoint is not a church with small groups but a church of small groups" We are not going to have traditional sunday school classes but connect groups. Basically a small group of people, 10-12 people, that meet once a week in someone's house to fellowship and discuss the weeks sermon. The cool thing is, all of the connect groups at Centerpoint discuss the sermon for the week so that the WHOLE church can dive deeper into God's word and be on the same page. We love Centerpoint and are thrilled to be a part of such a great church family.
I believe 2011 is going to be a very promising year. God is moving and we are following!
God Bless and enjoy this rainy day!
Emily
It's been way too long and I have a lot to catch up on. I'll go ahead and warn you now, there won't by a lot pictures so, hang in there and get caught up with what's going on with the Lobensteins.
Christmas came and went like a whirlwind. We have decided to start rotating out Christmas and Thanksgiving between our families. For example, this year we spent Thanksgiving with Aric's family so next year we will spend Thanksgiving with my family. This year we spent Christmas with my family, next year we will spend it with Aric's family. You get the idea. I truly believe this rotation will help save a lot of headaches. It is so hard trying to visit with both families within a matter of a few days. Can anyone feel me on this? The weeks leading up to Christmas were very hectic but praise the Lord, Christmas day was very calm and enjoyable. Before we knew it, we had way too many presents and bellies full of food. God is so good with all blessings he has showered us with! (not referring to the presents here. I mean, good food, a roof over our heads and a great family!)
New Years was spent with sweet friends, The Smiths and The Sparrows. We get together every year, either before or after Christmas and do a little gift exchange. It was too fun and the kids were hilarious! I am so thankful for sweet friends in our life to lift us up and encourage us. We were home by 9pm and I just could not make it to midnight. I guess having a new baby and 2 year old will do that to you. :) Poor Aric insisted on staying up to watch the ball drop in Times Square and ending falling asleep on the couch. He didn't even get to see the ball drop!
2011 started off just as busy as 2010 ended.
Aric and I help out with an organization within the Prattville YMCA called Leaders Club. It is a Christ centered club that emphasizes the role of servant leadership while incorporating the values of the YMCA: Spirit, Mind and Body. We LOVE IT! The club has taken off and reached new heights. We work with about 40-50 teens and pre-teens every Tuesday night of the month. We also attend socials and service projects monthly with this group. We may stay busy but wouldn't trade it for anything. Working with these teens is such a blessing! God has really worked wonders in us and these teenagers; I can't wait to see where He is going to take us.
Changing subjects for a minute, and unfortunately it is not a good subject. Some of you know that my friend Brandy has been staying with us for awhile. Well, she and her dog, Huckleberry, have really been troopers. Living in a house with a 2 year old and a newborn, I'm sure, is not her idea of luxury but it has been a blast having her here with us. Her dog had become part of our family and truly felt like our dog too. (our other dogs, Kodi and Montana may have been a little jealous but they all learned to accept each other.) We came home one night to him laying in our neighbors yard. He had been hit by a car. For those of you who know where we live, our street is very busy. So busy that sometimes it is annoying. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE!
It was a sad, sad day in our household. Not too mention having to tell your best friend over the phone! That was awful! We will miss Huckleberry. I have lost several pets and for those of you that haven't, let me tell you, it is NOT easy! Brandy is doing well now and getting ready to deploy to Germany for two months. I told Brandy that I truly believe something good will come from this. Something amazing always happens after a tragedy. God has plans that we can't yet see and is using us in a mighty way!
Health. That's is the next thing that has been going on around here. My mom has been lifted up in prayer and continues to need serious prayer. Her health is not good right now. I honestly wish I could share more but, with the limited information that I am getting, that is about all I know. I will try and update as soon as I can.
As for me, I am doing well but could be better. I am scheduled to have a biopsy the first week of February. It is nothing too serious just more of a precaution. I am a little nervous but I know that God will provide and take care as he always does.
Aric's father has also had his fair share of problems. His parents are in the process of moving to Bowling Green, Kentucky so I know it is difficult for him. No matter what, we know that God is in control. We are putting everything in His hands. I'm starting to see a pattern here, no? :)
On a happier note, we recently have a made a big purchase that was MUCH NEEDED.
Introducing the MOMWAGN! (yes, that is how my new car tag reads)
We LOVE IT! I'll be quite honest, the idea of a minivan was something I did not like. It didn't seem as "cool" as an SUV. Well, I am a changed woman now. I test drove one and fell in love. It rides like a car, but feels like an SUV. The room in this thing is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. We ended up getting one that had some of the fancier options. It has a dual DVD system, leather seats, satellite radio. The sliding doors on boths sides are automatic...YES!!! No more difficult trips to the grocery store! We are extremely blessed and so thankful that God opened up this door for us!
The kiddos...oh man are they growing fast! Thomas is almost 5 months old and Savannah is such a smart little 2 year old.
She is now doing very well at putting 3-5 words together to make complete sentences. Her favorite things to say are: "Come on mommy!" and "What's that?" Savannah loves to read. At any given time during the day, she is sitting on the floor "reading" her books. She cannot read yet but hearing her jabber away is too cute. The other day she amazed us by singing her ABC's! The WHOLE Song! She was so excited she started clapping when she finished. Potty training has been a slow go thus far. She knows the potty and what you do in the potty but refuses to go. She has gone several times for Aric but when I practice with her, it is like trying to push a square block in a round circle. (BIG sigh) She loves to wash her hands, though! Potty or not, she is always saying, "wash the hands?" Our sweet Savannah can be very independent at times, wanting to wipe her own face, get in the van by herself, get dressed and even go take naps on her own. What happened to my baby??!! She also has started the terrible twos and throwing tantrums. The first real big one happend at Family Christian book store last week and I thought I was going to lose it. I remained calm, not drawing any more attention than I had too. I tucked her under my arms like a football and we left. It was awful! I don't know the best way to handle those but I was the mom with that child out in public. Oh well, hopefully this phase won't last too long. She is very well behaved overall and we are very pleased with her calm demeanor.
Thomas is such a sweet boy. He has been sleeping through the night ok up until recently. We just went to Mississippi this past weekend to visit Aric's sister. We didn't get on the road until late Friday night and that messed up Thomas's sleeping pattern. Since then he has been waking up during the night several times. It is hard but we know that it will be short lived once he can get back on his normal routine. (We can put him down between 9 and 10 and he will usually sleep until about 6.)
He has been laughing a lot lately. Every time I play with him, his little face just lights up! He is reaching out very well and very close to rolling over. He is not quite sitting up yet but we practice a little bit every day.
At his 4 month check up he weighed in at 12lbs 10oz and was 24 inches long. Savannah was little heavier and shorter at 14lbs 1 oz and 23 inches long.
Savannah loves being a big sister. She helps out with Thomas every chance she can get. I cannot wait until they can play together!
Our church family has been awesome! Centerpoint is growing and relationships are being restored every day! We recently became part of a Connect Group. As they say, "Centerpoint is not a church with small groups but a church of small groups" We are not going to have traditional sunday school classes but connect groups. Basically a small group of people, 10-12 people, that meet once a week in someone's house to fellowship and discuss the weeks sermon. The cool thing is, all of the connect groups at Centerpoint discuss the sermon for the week so that the WHOLE church can dive deeper into God's word and be on the same page. We love Centerpoint and are thrilled to be a part of such a great church family.
I believe 2011 is going to be a very promising year. God is moving and we are following!
God Bless and enjoy this rainy day!
Emily
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