Little Eyes Are Watching

Quite a few months ago, Jon and I experienced the joy of praying with our son. Then he began to lead prayers by himself. This past Sunday as I held him in church, we experienced another awesome moment. I looked over and he was raising his hands to the Lord and singing in his small voice. I realized he had been watching his dad and I. Tears formed as I thought of how he listens and sees everything we are doing. Im so guilty of letting of little terms of frustration like, "Crap, stupid, etc." And I know those words are better than others :) So instead of feeling guilty, it just made me realize that it means I can teach him more, like bible verses and such. Now if I could just dust off my bible more........

What stays in Vegas............

Well, Jon and I are going to Vegas this weekend as a special treat from my sis and her hubby! So excited because neither one of us have been and I've always wanted to experience it! So we are staying in the Stratosphere, Im packing walking shoes, and we are off to have some fun. (Please note that we aren't really gamblers, though we may have to do some penny slots or something) So I know Jennae and I will be taking many photos to post later.

Oh Yeah, my Mom, Dad and I lived there for a few months when I was almost 3 and Mom was preggo with Jennae. I used to say, "Has Megas"

TWILIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay so my sister got tickets to the Midnight showing of Twilight, the movie. OMG! It was so good. Not scary. Very very very good. At least I thought it was. It was so romantic-yes folks. Romantic. I don't want to give it away but you need to see it. And oh yea, I haven't even read the books! Nevertheless Doug and Jonny didn't care for it because it was a "Chick-Flick" but they were troopers for going with us.
Anyways, I just had to share. And now I'm going to read the books.......

Whew! How time passes!

Well, it has been a long 2 1/2 months and a lot has happened. For starters, I went to see a doctor about my health. Im on track and slowly losing weight. Its been hard to change my lifestyle but I know its worth it. I won't say how much I weigh but I will say that I have been able to shed some inches and try on smaller clothes.

Then, Jennae and Doug got their house and so we helped them for a few weeks. Its beautiful and I am proud of them!

Then the biggest decision we've had to make came to us right in the face. We have been praying for over a year with the decision of leaving EPIC church. We have struggled because though we loved the people, we didn't feel we fit the church and if we tried to hang on any longer, we'd sabotage what God was trying to do. We probably went about it the wrong way but everyone was shocked (and some still don't realize it) We've also tried to make it peaceful so that this doesn't interfere with the relationships we've built with everyone. So we officially decided on November 7, 2008. We decided until God directs us to a specific church, we'll attend them all. I don't want to say that we are "trying" out churches because its God's direction that we are looking forward to. We felt complete peace about this and we plan to still attend our life group until its time.

Jonny was accepted to the Psychiactric Technician program beginning in December. This means a year long program, no money and lots of faith. Thank God we both have supportive parents to keep our faith up and pray for us.

He Loves Us..........

Okay the ever so popular song "How He Loves Us" is streaming everyone's blogspots and myspaces. I found this video on a friend's blogspot and had to share it. Something for EPIC to think about doing..........

Update on Nathan

Hello All,



Thank you so much for your prayers and thoughts. This has been a long and windy road with Nathan. Some may know and not know that Nathan had to go in for more testing last Friday on an urgent basis per an endocrinologist from Children's Hospital. I finally got a hold of her today and she said that she wasn't able to say an exact diagnosis but looking at the first set of results, Nathan's cortizone hormone was very low and he would probably have to get a shot anytime there is a stressfult situation (which was vaguely defined by the doctor) the rest of his life.



Nevertheless, as his parents you could imagine this still leaves us hanging because we don't know what to look for but we have a doctor's appt on September 8th to talk to the doctor more in depth. She will also have all the results back from his hormone testing and CT scan. We know that we serve an awesome God and He will bring us through this. We know that he has put each and every one of you in our lives for a reason.



More updates later.....otherwise he is doing great! He is talking so much. Last night on the way home from life group, he was telling on one of the kids because he kept talking in long sentences and I heard him try to prounounce some of the kids' names. He is also potty training. We have a Nathan's Potty Prize jar and if he goes he gets 3 M&M's.



Love The Bartletts



Jessica N. Bartlett
"I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you
hope for." Jeremiah 29:11

Addicted to Love......

Remember the song by Robert Palmer, Addicted to Love? Well, I was just listening to it and a funny thought hit about my grandma. In the video of Addicted to Love, there are women with slicked back hair, ruby red lips, and playing electric guitars in dresses. So with the thought of that video and song in mind, I wanted to share a picture and something that happened on our trip up north.

My sister, mother, grandmother, Nathan and I went to visit an elderly lady in the rest home. My 75 yr old grandmother is a caretaker for her. In the visiting room there was an old organ and of course my mom had to play it. So my grandma picks up Nathan's toy guitar and pretends she is playing it. It was so funny because it was random and because we could never imagine grandma picking up a guitar, let alone an electric guitar. I could totally see her starring in that video with her beehive hairdo and ruby red lips.....

LOL

Okay, I really have nothing much to share except laughing out loud. And this week, there has been little funny things that have happened that don't make sense to anyone but me. And trust me, I have needed this laughter. My life has been a whirlwind the past few years and I think I've left my joybox on the counter. But I feel that God is healing some things in my heart with joy and laughter.

Tonite, we were having our weekly family dinner. Everyone had a task (cutting the meat, cutting the watermelon, mashing potatoes) and we were stirring around preparing dinner as well as to listening to my brother's broadcast on the radio. Jennae and Doug hadn't arrived yet. Nathan was excited so he went around the house screaming and laughing. Jonny was walking around the house in circles trying to find reception with the radio. All you heard was Nathan, radio static, and the beaters. We all just stopped and busted laughing. These are the best times. When Jennae and Doug arrived, it was fun times. Fun times.

Greetings From Our Group Home

Well, it has been about 2 weeks and we haven't killed each other. My stepdad is dedicated to his job where he sleeps in the day and guards the prison at night. My mom sleeps in for a while, catching up on 30 years of sleep deprivation. My husband snores on ( FROM THE BOOK 'BEAR SNORES ON')without a flinch. My son sleeps peacefully because he has conquered his sides of our bed. I, however, get ready to feed the world as I hand out benefits to the needy for a mere sixpence.

We all have our quirks. My mother and husband spend more time together than we can wish ( she is his taxi for the time being) My stepdad is in heaven because my mom finally has a reason to cook. My son thinks he is in Disneyland because he is living the best of both worlds. And there is my brother, the rockstar, the baby of the family, the one who leaves a trail of crumbs from his 2am snack.

Right now, I couldn't trade it for a moment. We dont know what our future holds as far as the path we'll take but we know that God is in control. He hears our praise and prayers. And thanks to my mother in law and our friends for their support.

Well, we are finally moved in to our mansion. I am beside my self because I'm so used to my routine of cooking dinner and cleaning up right after work. Now my mom usually has dinner cooking and the house is kept clean. Our hearts are so grateful for the grace and mercy our parents have had on us since we've been together. We feel at times unworthy to be parents our self because we haven't been financially stable for Nathan's sake. This year will be a true test of our faith in our finances as well as our marriage. I know God has a plan for me and for my family. I just need to rehearse trhat everyday.


Thanks for your prayers. And as for Nathan, he is suppose to have a Ct-Scan sometime in the next few weeks. He seems vibrant and happy. He loves to sing, "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" which is the first song I sang to him in the hospital.

Home Sweet Home

Okay, so my last blog was a little troubling to understand because I wasn't very specific so I will share. My parents offered Jon and I to live with them for awhile so that Jon can go back to school. At first we had doubts because we didn't want to leave our cute little place and leave our privacy as well as dive into my parent's and brother's privacy. Then we looked at our finances, we looked at the fact that we've been praying for a good job for Jonny and we looked at our son. Knowing everyone would have to make some sacrifices and that its totally embarrassing...we really couldn't see beyond all of that. We want to give Nathan the best life we can and Jon deserves to continue on with his education and have an opportunity at a career. So at the end of July we are moving in. We are so grateful for this opportunity and not many people get it twice! (We used to live with them before our little tooter came along) So please pray for us, its emotionally and mentally rough right now. We'll still be on one paycheck but this will help us not having to pay as much rent.

And speaking of the little tooter....Nathan is talking like crazy. The other day on our way home he was throwing a fit because he was sooo tired. My mom was doing her best to entertain him but he just wouldn't have it. So I said, "He's just really tired." and Nathan snapped back, "I NOT TIYED MAMA !" (spelt deliberately) And we really had to make firecrackers a big deal so he wouldnt be as scared. He kept saying, "Ooo, crackers, ooo"

Love Everyone....

Thoughts

Okay, so Im going to be very indirect in this blog because I don't want to give away too much detail just yet. Jon and I have had a proposition brought forth to us and we have mixed emotions. Mainly this proposition would be beneficial to our family right now and give us a chance to have a chance to be free from some things. Anyways, we need to make this decision fairly quickly and its scary. We've made good decisions and bad decisions in life and some have haunted us and some have helped us. We need to pray and seek God's wisdom. So please pray and one day I can share more. Pray that we are open to all options and the God will pave the path before us.

A Challenge Question

My pastor's wife asked my a question through my comment page regarding my last blog. She asked, "What are you learning? How have you felt you've grown?" Well, I was about to comment back in answering those questions but I realized I didn't know the answers. So I laid in bed last night thinking and thinking and praying.....and began to realize something.

Do you remember the book, "Are you there God, its Me Margaret?" I remember so well reading that book in preparation for becoming a young lady....if you know what I mean? In the book, the character was so open and blunt in her quest to find her true self, talking to God as if you were talking to a friend. I sometimes find myself talking to God like I talk to my friends or my husband. Is it wrong? Not really, however, I think just like people around us, we forget to honor them in our words, actions, etc. For instance, I love to pray because I know I can vent to God and he'll send peace and I can get it off my chest. But I am guilty of not praising him enough and falling deeper into his presence, almost forgetting that God is majestic and deserves more glory and honor than just an ordinary friend.

So, this revelation has not solved our problems. But it has made me realize that I am complacent at times when I need to be in God's word more each day and in prayer giving more attention to God and what he has done in my life. It has made me realize that when I feel like I've prayed all the prayers and read all the "encouraging" scriptures, that I need to look harder for what God is teaching me and telling me. Thanks Rhonda for your questions of wisdom.

Doubting Jessica

Okay, so I just want to vent. It seems like its been something Im really good at. But I need to get this out. I have been through the thick and thin in life to know that God is there for us. To know His plan is not our own. I have studied scripture after scripture and prayed every prayer for miracles. And yet I still have the inclination to shout out, "Hello, God, are you listening?" Ok, Jonny still doesn't have a permanent job. The one he has barely pays, and its in Fresno. So he could totally work at McDonalds right now and get more money.

My heart goes out to him because he is so talented and SMART. But because he doesn't have a degree or trade, it makes it difficult to find a decent job. I know men have this pride thing and want to support their family financially, so this has got to be hitting him hard. Everyone our age has started buying houses and investing in the future, and we can't even pay our bills on time. Its quite embarrassing so please know that I am being extremely transparent.

Seriously, I know God is working in our lives. And I know that he has a plan especially for Jonny. Its just been hard because this year has brought many tears of pain. (some for joy) Please say a prayer. Please know we are forever grateful for the many blessings we have and because of family and friends we have gotten through some rough storms. We just want God's favor in our lives. Thanks

The Wedding Has Come and Gone....Calgon Take Me Away

The wedding was here and now its gone. We had a lot of fun planning and enjoying being all dressed up! Thanks to our good friends that helped with the wedding and NATHAN...Charisse Hastings, Linda Pannett, and The Cagles. We couldn't have done it without you! And the reception was fun. I had so much fun dancing with my two left feet. And my grandpa who is 76 years old and my grandma were DANCING! And I don't mean in the spirit! And of course my hot hubby danced with me! Jennae and Doug are truly happy and I am so blessed to have been a part of it. I actually gained a new family out of it too because Doug's family has treated us like their own! More pictures to come and thanks to those who were able to make it. I truly appreciate it.
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The Fight Is Not Over..........

Yesterday, I noticed when Nathan woke up that his urine has a very bad smell. I thought it was probably from all he had been through but I made a doctor's appointment just to be sure. I talked to the doctor about his traumatic experience and she said that they would need a urine sample. I fought tears and fought the urge to run out of the office, but I knew he needed help. Nathan screamed in terror as they placed just the simplest bag over his pee-pee and closed up his diaper. Doctor told us to wait. So my mom and I went to the market down the street and purchased juice so that he'll go in the bag. After 2 hours, our attempt failed as the doctor's office was closing and he had not gone.

When we got home, I took the bag off so he could be free......that was until he would go to sleep. And as soon as he did, I carefully put a new bag on. The next morning he was in bed with us and I checked his diaper......nothing. So, we got ready for work, and I held him in the chair and I smelled that awful smell and felt warmth on my pant leg. Sure enough, he went in the bag, in his diaper, down his leg and on my work clothes....BUT I was so excited I poured the specimen in the little cup and changed my clothes.

SO......I have talked to the Nurse Practioner and they said that he has a UTI. They are going to put him on antibiotics but they still want to do a sonogram and make sure there is no damage. They believe because he was double-cathed that this caused the inflammation. PLEASE PRAY THERE IS NO DAMAGE. This is so scary....it just started out as the stomach flu............

Definitely A Memorial Weekend

Well, we have had a interesting weekend. Nathan got sick early Friday morning (vomiting) and diarreah, fever, etc. So I stayed home with him and just let it run its course. He continued to throw up several times after that not keeping anything down. We called the doctor and the doctor said....."No more monkeys jumping on the bed"...Sorry I couldn't resist. He said just watch his temp and give him lots of fluids. By Friday night he hadn't thrown up so we thought he was getting better. Until 8pm he did it again. He slept through the night and the next morning he seemed a little better but totally lethargic. Later that evening, we managed to give hime JELLO and we thought this was a turning point. Until he threw it up. By this point he seemed totally lifeless and we took him in. By the time we rushed to the hospital he was severely dehydrated and couldn't pee even after drinking 12 oz. of fluid. They sent us to the ER (because we were in urgent care) and they worked on trying to find a vein. The next option the doc said was to do an IO which is basically and "IV" through his bone in his leg. The needle my friends was as thick as a nail. They did not sedate him and the blood curling scream was unbearable. (We werent allowed in the room) So after a while they decided the Central Valley Hospital didnt have the resources to maintain that particular "IO" and ordered an ambulance to take us to Childrens Hospital.

To my delight, they were the best in care and was very patient with him and gracious. They found a vein in his hand and took out that ugly thing in his leg. They admitted Nathan to the "Apollo" wing where he could get better. (All the wings are named after spaceships) Then finally this afternoon he was so much better and was able to go home. My advice to anyone is to go straight to Children's Hospital if at all possible anytime you need care and can make it there. Its worth the gas! Although we were transferred by ambulance so that was cool. Thanks for all of your prayers, we appreciate it so much!

I have always been proud of my little brother. I wasn't around him too much in his prime years because I had left home already and we were over 10 years apart but I always kept up with his life of rock.

Justin is one of the guitarists and singers for Flight 409 of Fresno. They've come a long way of their road to stardom and we share in his excitement. I have been blessed to come from such a musical family and then marry into a musical family. Jon's brothers both play guitar really well. His sister Kate plays saxaphone and sings!

So nevertheless, Nathan loves the guitar and is beginning to sing. I know God has given us a talented little boy and I pray that we will always embrace it!

These pictures are from the other night when Justin came over to practice for the song we are singing for Jennae and Doug's wedding. Its going to sound really good.

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

~M O T H E R ~


M is for the million things she gave me,

O means only that she’s growing old.

T is for the tears she shed to save me,

H is for her heart of purest gold.

E is for her eyes of love-light shining,

R is right and right she’ll always be!

Put them all together they spell Mother,

the word that means the world to me.

By: Howard Johnson, 1915

Happy Mother's Day to all and to the future mothers as well! I am so blessed to have known my mother, mother in law, and all my grandmothers in my life. I am also blessed to have friends that are mothers and have been a great example.

Thank you Lord for mothers. How awesome is it that you knew exactly what every child needed in life. From the boo-boos to the broken hearts, a mother's gentle shoulder was created by You. Lord you are a true example of all the great qualities you have sewn into a mother's soul. May each mother be blessed! Amen!

Breakfast At Tiffany's

Well, some have asked about Jennae's shower so for family and friends afar, let me say it was incredible.

We had white table cloths with pink runners. Tall silver vases stood grand in the middle of each table housing with delicate pink roses. Each place adorned with 'tiffany-blue' boxes and giant diamond rings on top of each one. Of course the little mother in law house in the back of my mother's yard was staged like Tiffany and Company showcasing beautiful jewelry.

I shared a poem by EE Cummings dedicated to Jennae 'I carry you in my heart' (for those who have seen the movie 'In Her Shoes' you will appreciate it. We had sophisticated tea sandwiches and Cranberry-Limeade Punch. And Jennae's cake was fabulous enough for any princess with pink satin ribbon on each buttercream layer and diamonds sparkling in the sun. We played the grocery game and "How well do you know Doug?" game.

Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Jennae was overwhelmed with excitement and it seemed to open our eyes to how soon the wedding is coming.

To My Mom: Thanks for taking the financial part in this and my other creative side. During a hard time in my life I was able to give my sister her dream shower. Thanks for all of your hard work and dedication.

To The Bridesmaids: We are sexy and we know it. And on June 7th we will show it. Big or tall, pregnant or small we are the Mad Maids.

To the epic crew: I can't tell you how much it meant for you guys to be there. It makes me cry to think how much you guys have reached out to us and Doug and Jennae. And thanks for the tables and chairs........they fit in perfectly.

And To My Sissy: I am so proud of you and I know God is about to bless your socks off! Love you always.............

Well, we thought we'd take the opportunity to have some family time today. Jonny and I usually have practice for worship on Saturdays so we don't really get the chance to have a full day together. We couldn't really afford anything too big because our budget is really tight and at first we were just going to stay home but we took a plunge and decided to do something fun. We thought about a picnic and going to the park but then we decided to take $20 and go to the zoo. Nathan went last year but he was only 15 months old and we knew he wouldn't appreciate it as much.

So I packed some sandwiches and we were off! We had a great time and enjoyed each animal. Nathan was so intrigued by each animal and at times shrieked with excitement. One of Nathan's favorite animals were the seals. He kept saying, "Puppy!" and they did look like dogs in the pool. Then there was a petting zoo and Nathan ran wild. He saw that other kids were brushing the animals with brushes provided and he went crazy!

The best part was at the end of our 2 1/2 hour time, Nathan said very loudly, "Bye Bye, See You Later" ending a great day. I am so glad that we took the time to do this. We really look forward to taking him to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Sea World and Grama Bobbie wants to take him to the San Francisco Zoo as well.

My Little "Jesus"

I can only imagine that 2000 years ago, Jesus was a very friendly kid. He was probably like any normal kids that still had to mind his earthly parents and played with rocks and sticks in the street but I just know that he was also a curious little boy.

Nathan and I were walking last night and Nathan is very friendly. TO EVERYONE! He said hi to every person on the road even if they were 1/8 of a mile away. At first, I became a little embarrassed but God quickly touched my heart. I have a happy healthy little boy that brings joy to others. Yes, he is extremely loud and gets easily excited but I am glad that he is that way. We are so blessed to have him in our lives. And I know he has touched others as well.

He spent the night with grandma last night so I can't wait to be with him this afternoon.

Worship

Wow, I actually get to go to the main service on Sunday. It has been a crazy last few months. Between getting sick several times, family in town, going out of town, and being in the nursery, I haven't had the chance to really go to the main service. I have missed out partially on the Worship series....so bummed....but I was able to listen to the last couple of weeks. (Until our sound went out on our computer speakers)

So now, I have to opportunity to provide worship along with my husband in church. I love the experience of being behind everyone and able to not have to really lead the songs so that I can experience a greater time worshipping God as well. I have led worship now for 12 years and have been a part of worship teams for 15 years. I don't think I have learned anything much more than how to become more alive in God's presence.

Thank you Father for the opportunity to serve you in worship. I am your child. I am a vessel Lord that longs to never run dry. Use me in any way that is pleasing to you. I know I may fumble but you pick me up, brush me off, and help me stay focused on your will. I love you. Amen.

Seat Belts Everyone

Guess what? Jonny got a seat belt ticket on the way to work this morning. I am just............peeved............and Im not sure what to think about it.

Nathan's Chores

Okay, well, we haven't come to a point where we actually expect Nathan to do chores but he has recently showed an interest in being a "helper." I remember when we were younger, my mother has us doing dishes at a very young age, teaching us the importance of cleaning up after yourself and taking pride in the home. Thanks mom for making us do chores. And I must say that Jonny is such a good helper as well. I know that his mom gave him responsiblilities growing up too. And it shows. Jonny usually will take initiative and clean up after dinner or do laundry without telling me.

This is where Nathan comes in. He watches everything we do and I believe he will grow up knowing that cleaning up and pitching in is just a normal thing. Of course we are all human and sometimes we get lazy. Jon and I have discussed things like allowances and such. We've decided that our children will do chores because they live in our home and everybody helps out. And allowance is a tool to teach kids about money.

Okay, now the cute part. On Monday, we came home from the store and with my hands full, I asked Nathan to grab the newspaper and he did and set it on the end table. I thanked him and cheered for him. Then on Tuesday we came home and he automatically picked up the paper and set it in the same place. Ever since, he has done that and I know he feels a sense of pride.

Lord, please help us to teach our children good habits and to take pride in simple tasks as it pleases you. Thanks for the good examples that were set before us by our parents and grandparents. Amen

God Answers Prayers

Well, I do belive that God answers prayers. And I have witnessed it in my own life. On Monday night at Life Group, I requested prayer for my dad. He was scheduled for surgery on Tuesday to have the rest of his toes on his right leg removed. (His bigger toe was removed in October 2006.) My sister and I were rather worried because he has waited 28 years to walk his baby down the aisle.

So, I tried to call him Monday night after group but it was late and I knew the nurses would grumble in the hospital. So I thought I would just call him in the morning. I called him, no answer. Called one of the two hospitals where I thought he would be, still no one knew about his surgery. Finally, I called the other hospital and the nurse told me that his surgery was acutally scheduled for March 31st. So by now, I didn't know whether to yell or laugh. My dad finally called me after I text'd him and said that he had called Jennae and told her and thought she would tell me.

Anyways, this morning he calls me and I could hear the excitement in his voice. He said, " I went to the doctor today for a final check on my foot, and guess what? I dont have to have surgery!" I was almost in tears. I knew my dad didnt want to have to worry about trying to heal before the wedding and was also just scared to have the surgery. I was so excited. He proclaims the he knows that God healed him and it was because of all the prayers that he is in a good place.

The doctor told him it might have to happen in the future but that we are going to believe it doesn't.

The Bachelor

You know, I have told myself at the end of every Bachelor season (mainly due to disappointment) that I was not going to watch another one. And here I am on a Monday night and watching another stinkin' season. Someone please pray for me.

Happy Easter!

Well, what a beautiful weekend to conclude a busy week! We left early Saturday morning to go to San Mateo to meet up with Jon's Grandma Bobbie and Jon's parents and lil sis. Then we were off to Half Moon Bay 15 minutes away to Jon's ole stomping ground and where his Uncle, Aunt, and Cousing reside and 10 feet away from the infamous Pumpkin Festival.

Nathan had another birthday bash opening up clothes, books, sand toys, and a pop up tent and more! We visited in the BEAUTIFUL weather and then took a drive 2 minutes away to the beach. It was cold, cold, cold but soooo beautiful. There is also a family tradition every year for Easter where Grandma Bobbie buys kites for the grandkids to fly around. This was Nathan's first year and as you can see from the pictures, Daddy had to fly and Nathan watched.
We had such a great weekend and ended it with a BBQ at mom's. Enjoy our little pictures! Happy Easter! Jesus Lives!

Busy Week!

Okay so the wedding is just shy of 2 months and boy we've been having fun! On Monday night I was so pooped from company here, Nate's party, etc. But I went to my mom's so I can begin on the shower invitations. I ended up leaving Nathan there as she offered to give me a peaceful night.

On Tuesday, I went to work for 3/4 of the day and then took Nathan to his 2 year old check-up. Dr. Ayala says Nathan is doing well and very healthy. Of course he had to get his shot and I knew I was in for a fight. The nurse laid him down, pulled down his pants to expose his thigh and gave him the shot. He looked over at me and had a confused look on his face and said, "I okay? I okay?" I said, "Yes, you're fine." He sat up and waved his hands around and said, "All done? All done?" He is such a big boy. So we left and went back over to my mom's and continued working on wedding invitations, shower invitations, favors, and wedding lists. It was fun, some of the bridesmaids came over, we grazed on Taco Bell and Chocolate, and we laughed our heads off.

On Wednesday, some of the wedding party came over to my house as the Bride-2-B ordered pizza and we worked on 180 bottles of Coca Cola tying ribbons and tags to them as the wedding favors. The Groom 2B whisked Jonny off for a much needed Man Date to the movies.

Last night, I was waiting to meet someone who was suppose to buy my old cell phone at Walmart. She never showed up and though I enjoyed walking around Walmart for two hours, I had Nathan with me. Then I went to Target and walked around then home. So I was ready for bed because work was SOOOOOOOOOOOO stressful.

Anyways, I am looking forward to spending some time with the INLAWS and Easter afternoon we'll be home with my side. There is a lot to do for the shower coming up but of course it will be fabulous darling!

The Best Day Ever

Well, I woke up Saturday morning to see how Nathan did on his first night in his toddler bed. My dad and Nathan were playing hide and seek in the living room. I sang Happy Birthday and just like any toddler, he said, "No, Mommy." I guess it was just too early. So Nathan said, "Daddy, Nite Nite?" and we went and woke up the big grizzly just to begin the festivities at Black Bear for breakfast. I asked the waitresses to sing 'Happy Birthday' to Nathan but instead of ice cream they brought out pancakes with whipped cream!Then we were off to the Beauty College where Nathan was such a good sport! He let the hairdresser hold him, put him in the seat and everything! She was so patient with Nathan as he was more interested in the flash cards she had for kids. I asked her to just trim his hair only a little. Aunt Nae Nae has requested his beautiful curls to show up at the wedding. And of course we told him to thank the lady and he said, "Dink Yu." Nathan was whisked away to Nana's house where he would slumber and take a bath in the swimming pook, aka whirlpool bathDad, Jon and I headed home to clean our house and prepare for a Sponge Bob Best Day Ever. This is what happens when you ask your husband to put things where they belongI made Nathan's birthday cake. I know, my mom could have made it and it would have been adorable but I would actually like to start making my kid's cakes. I decided a banana cake with chocolate frosting would be fantastic. (Nathan LOVES bananas and I love Chocolate!) So I then thought that it would be fun to just find some figurines of the famous duo (SB and Pat) and of course SB's house. So I dried out 1/4 pineapple and added a door. The only thing is I used whipped frosting and it was sort of greasy which made it difficult to make the edges.
Nathan's party was fun and we had a full house. Nathan of course got 3 guitars which he has hardly put any of them down for the last 24 hours. He was so excited to see all of his little friends and had..........THE BEST DAY EVER!!!!!!

PS-If you notice, Nathan is learning that women are over bearing at a younger age. Maia and Gracie helped him open presents and took charge of the event. Sorry, buddy, you're in a woman's world.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY SWEET LOVE!

Two years ago today, I met my son for the first time and next to my wedding day, it was the best day of my life. My son is wonderful, smart, witty, and so much fun. Today we are celebrating with our friends and family. Spongebob is the theme and I have made a cake. I will be posting pictures tomorrow hopefully. We are also going to attempt to get his haircut for the first time.

Nathan got a toddler bed from us. He didn't know quite what to do. He's been asleep about 4 hours and has only fallen out once. (We have a cushion there...don't worry.) Anyways, Grandma Peggy and Grandpa Billy can't come again and we are so sad. And Grammie Linda and family from Jon's side can't make it either but they live so far away AND we get to see them next weekend.

Dear Nathan,
You are the beat of my heart. I love to hear you talk and sing. I love how you pick up any long object and it quickly becomes a guitar. You are so sweet and always make Mommy and Daddy smile. We pray for you everyday and thank God that He chose us to raise you. Always know that we will be there for you and Jesus is your Rock! God Bless you this year as you learn more and more and discover many things.

Love Always,

Mommy and Daddy

LOST

Okay, so I've never watched the show but I think this word can be powerful. Jonny and I are praying about our situation and we feel......lost. We know God's will is in the works but we are impatiently waiting for something, anything. Well, I should mention that Jon got a little 2 1/2 day job that pays good and we are so grateful because we will hopefully get through another month.

I must say that we are feeling lost in other ways that I won't go into but we are trying to hold on and pray that God has something wonderful in store for our lives. I know that he is teaching me to be a patient and supportive wife. Now, I didn't say that I was passing....I'm trying. I guess I'm letting my fears blind me in that way.

Well, thanks for letting me sound off. We appreciate everyone's prayers and support. We definitely need it.

Thank you Lord for whatever is to come. You are a good Lord and have helped us through this storm. Please forgive us for our doubt and know that we do have faith, we just need help finding it. Amen!

Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due.....

Well, I stand corrected. I mentioned in one of my blogs that my mother-in-law was wise and a thinker leaving my own mother out. My mother in law is wise and a thinker and so is my mom. She is creative, outgoing, wise, a good cook, a great listener, patient, and most of all just like my mother in law....they are our support team. My mom has been taking care of Nathan (free of charge...although all those times we had to help her change the living room around (j/k mom) Anyways, to mom....WE APPRECIATE YOU even though we don't tell you enough. And to Linda my mother in law, WE APPRECIATE YOU too.

IM SO SICK OF BEING SICK!

Ok, Nathan got sick, then Jonny and I got sick, then Nathan got sick again, and then what Jonny and I THOUGHT was allergies (well, I think his is) I now have a double ear infection and laryngitis. Crazy, huh? Anyways, got some meds, and some ear drops and we'll see. I'm too old for this!!!!! Its a good thing that I already have hearing loss because I know how to read lips. And its a good thing that I'm not on the worship team for a few weeks, huh?

CUTE MOMENT ALERT: Ok so I was making supper tonight and Nathan was under my feet like usual and had his cup with a straw attached filled with milk. So, with my back turned I kept hearing, "Uh, Oh" I turned around and found him shaking his milk out onto the floor and then wiping it up with baby wipes. It was too cute! Mommy's little maid! Viewer's Discretion: I do mop the floors a few days a week. This is not a child labor tactic.

My Little Pink-Eyed Kleptomaniac

Well, here is the story. Nathan has always been a very free spirited person. He'll talk to anyone (I wonder where he got that from, Nana Deb) and yet he is a thinker and is wise (he gets that from Grammie Linda) So where does kleptomania come in? The other night I was at the grocery store paying for my groceries and Nathan was sitting on the top part of the basket. Out of the corner of my eye I saw him try to grab a Cadbury egg. Knowing that he has done this before, I quickly took the egg and moved the cart over saying, "Oh No, you aren't going to do that again." Well, my victory quickly departed when I noticed he was eating something. He had already had one unwrapped and partially in his mouth. I was so embarrassed because I had already paid. The clerk simply took the wrapper and said, "We call this 'a loss'." I thanked him for his generosity and basically skipped out of the store. You see, Nathan has done this before (stealing a Cadbury egg) and I actually noticed when we got out of the store. At that time, guilt had melted over my body, so I went in and paid for it. I have learned one lesson............move the cart over before anything is paid for.

Oh yeah, Nathan has Pink-Eye. He is doing better but has a double ear infection. Poor little guy, he just gives us the most disgusted look when we have to use the aspirator on his nose. I guess he just needs more Cadbury eggs.

I'm Ready, I'm Ready, Promotion, Promotion

Here is the invitation! We all love Spongebob and watch faithfully. I think Nathan just likes his voice! I'm going to attempt to be creative and make his birthday cake and hopefully it will turn out. I'm so excited because my grandmother who didn't make it last year because she was sick is planning on coming this year!

My Baby is turning 2!

I just got done creating some nifty little birthday cards for Nathan's birthday party. Its not going to be as big of a deal as last year but we're going to host some pizza and casual hanging out at our new place! I have been slowly organizing all of my pictures of his life so far so that I can finish his scrapbook. Here are a couple from his life that I love!

Friends

Friends are good to have even when you are in the middle of your storm. Thank you friends and family for being there as we learn lessons daily from God. Thank you for holding our hands through our storm and even making us laugh when we want to cry. There is hope and the moment we let go is the moment our faith floats away. This is dedicated to Brandi because she says that I need to write more on this blog. Love ya girl!

Say A Little Prayer

I just have to share this because personally, I needed to experience this as it parallells something in my life. We as a family have been eating at the table alot. We turn the TV off, sit down and pray. Jon and I knew that Nathan would only learn by example, so we just prayed without him and eagerly awaited for the day when he would join us. So..........the last few nights he has finally folded his hands together and started to bow his head. Last night, however, he folded his hands and just as Jonny began to pray, he started jibber-jabbering along with his dad as if he was praying. It was so hard not to laugh but it was soooo cute. Then at the end we all said, "Amen" and he said it loud and clear! This is great, just when we think our kids don't care what we are doing, they surprise us with delight.

Thank you Father for teaching us patience as parents. Thank you for the little moments in life that open up doors to who you are. Thank you for Nathan, for he is seeing you through our lives. Amen

Almost 2...Whats with the Do?

Okay, I'll admit I have tried to trim Nathan's hair a few times. I mean, come on, he's a boy and a curly head, how can you mess up his hair? Well, with little man's 2nd birthday coming up, I figured I should at least let a professional hair stylist do the damage. I am often reminded of my younger years when my creative side (or maybe just adventurous side) got a hold of me and I took my mom's sewing scissors and chopped off my baby sister's only curl. I guess I just like change and new beginnings. Well, maybe this weekend I'll take him to the beauty college for a bargain cut!

Congrats Megan!!!!!!

Last night, I finally got to checking my voicemail after a few days and my friend Megan had called. (Megan and I were college roommates and best friends in college.)She called to tell me that she was 6 1/2 weeks pregnant! YEAH!!!! Her and her husband Eric have been trying for years to have a little one and she has braved through some heavy storms including having to attend baby shower after another! With God's strength and prayers from friends and family, they finally did it. She sounded a little nervous and cautious but Im so excited for them and know that God is going to do some amazing things in their life. I love you Poopie

Goin' To The Chapel........

On February 2nd, my sister Bride 2 Be and her maids went to David's Bridal to find and try on our dresses. She just had one requirement....they have to be apple red. Oh what fun it was to go through the thousands of size 2-10 dresses and look for something for the plus size beauties. Well, luckily, Im not the only cushy maid and we found our prize dresses. The bridesmaids are me (Matron of Honor), Jennifer Goodrich (Doug's Sister), Hannah Bolen (Friend of Me and Jennae), Amy Courchaine (Me and Jennae's Cousin-Not Pictured), Amy Pannett (Friend of the Family), and Junior Bridesmaid Nicole Pannett (Amy's Sister). We had so much fun that day despite our persnickety store helper. Well, 3 more months and the big day will be here. Im so excited for Joug and Dennae!This is my dress!!!!!!!!

BEING SICK

MEDICINE:$20
GOING TO THE DOCTOR $40
BEING SICK AS A COUPLE: ANNOYING NOT PRICELESS
It started as a simple allergy cough. I was out of work on Thursday with a fever and just miserable. Then I got enought strength to go to work for half of a day on Friday (which my supervisor wasnt too happy about) and came home and crashed. So Jonny said he was started to feel sick and by days end he had a high grade fever. Thanks to Mom she bailed us out with Nathan. I hate pawning him off like that but we were destined to sleep that night. I woke up around 5am and told Jonny he should call in for worship because he still had a fever and we needed to go to the doctor. So he did (Sorry, B, we learned later that you had someone else cancel) Anyways, Im feeling a little better but my ribs hurt from coughing and Jonny's temp is going down. Oh Well, what doesnt kill our marriage only makes it stronger, right?

Mi Hermano!

Just Another Something To Do

This is my second blog spot. Okay I'll admit, I forgot my password and login for the other. So I am going to be a copy cat of my sister and friends and do this blog thing. I think its better than myspace, personally.

I am a mother of a beautiful son that God has given me and a wife of a wonderful man that loves me for who I am, even when Im bossy. I am going to be a matron of honor this June for my little sis who has finally landed on the love moon. I work for the county (KINGS) and pay my debt to society by helping people get aid. I actually like my job and hope to move up the ladder. I am a Christian and involved with the music at church.

Okay, signing off to watch American Idol.