tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81971149924007763502011-11-27T19:45:41.433-05:00I am many things...I am a woman. I am a wife. I am a mother. I am a teacher. I am a follower of Jesus. I am a compassionate person. I am me...I am NOT, however, a writer. I hope you enjoy my posts...some old, some new and some just downright odd.AJSnoreply@blogger.comBlogger2291100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-90903770173000688472009-05-31T22:04:00.003-04:002009-05-31T22:09:51.529-04:00

I want to move! Although I think Michigan is pretty, it is not where I want to live. I think the winters are WAY too hard for Lil Princess. She can't walk on the snowy, frozen ground unaided...it's hard enough for her to walk on dry, level ground!!! I don't like to be cold. I don't mind snow, but unfortunately, cold seems to be partnered with snow, so whatcha gonna do? I don't like how

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-8570230965884069042009-05-31T21:51:00.002-04:002009-05-31T21:57:44.906-04:00

I have so much going on right now that my head is spinning. Fortunately I'm not stressed about it, but I do wish I could get my thoughts straight and start making some headway!On a completely different note, I have been 'inspired' to lose some weight. The weird part of that is that I am on the low end of "normal" yet it sure doesn't feel that way. I am not one to care much about the number on

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-15534068937025586752009-05-27T11:05:00.002-04:002009-05-27T11:09:06.546-04:00

This post is not exactly for the 2 people that are still reading this blog but for my own documentation. Miya is officially potty training. She started about a week ago. She is successful 99.9% of the time, but only if she is naked. Today we went to the store and picked out special underpants, but she refusees to wear them. She picked out Minnie Mouse underpants. She was excited in the store

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-88571140988062575862009-05-04T21:36:00.002-04:002009-05-04T21:40:48.881-04:00

Dear Friends:I ask for a few moments of your time to read this note depicting how organ donation has personally affected me and my family.My mom is from a large family. She is one of ten children. One of her younger brothers, my Uncle Tom, was diagnosed with Kidney Disease when he was very young. He began dialysis when he was a teen. By Gods grace he was a candidate for a kidney transplant. Sadly

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-84586729435445142212009-04-28T09:40:00.002-04:002009-04-28T10:43:25.371-04:00

We have been consumed with the yuckies around our household for so long that I feel like everything else has been put on hold. As a result, I really don't have a lot to say. I guess for entertainments sake, I'll ramble on for a bit and see what happens.Lil Bug is doing well. She still really enjoys school. She will be going into Young 5's next year rather than Kindergarten. I think she will have

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-71571646845845286452009-04-20T14:50:00.003-04:002009-04-20T15:18:09.889-04:00

Lil Princess has been sick ALL. WINTER. LONG. with one thing after another. I just don't understand why?? She has had multiple ear infections. Toss in a few eye infections. Lets not forget two, maybe three upper respiratory infections. At this very moment she is recovering from a double ear infection, pneumonia and just for good measure a stomach virus that has had her wretching for the past

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-52419034194860795572009-03-25T11:52:00.002-04:002009-03-25T12:05:19.927-04:00

One of my biggest dislikes in life is shopping...for anything. Seriously! I don't like it. It seems like a waste of money and even more importantly, of time. Not to mention that I have to listen to one or two little girls saying, "I want that! I want that!" Which is a petpeeve of mine.Yesterday I decided to do something about it. I decided to use our grocery stores' Express option. You go

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-91546992732178986082009-03-19T13:21:00.003-04:002009-03-19T13:35:40.459-04:00

I wanted to share more of the story of Lil Bugs salvation last week, but I didn't have time to type more at that moment and then we were without internet for a few days.Here are the details.Lil Bug is a very spiritual being. She loves to read the Bible and talk about Jesus and Heaven and anything else she can think of to talk about. She loves going to Sunday school.I have spoken with her

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-28107482333296476682009-03-12T21:10:00.001-04:002009-03-12T21:13:06.966-04:00

My Lil Bug accepted Jesus into her heart tonight. I am SOOOO excited!!! God is good, always!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-50413834336622389502009-03-12T12:52:00.002-04:002009-03-12T12:53:53.211-04:00

Yep, it has hit. I'm doing the nitty gritty cleaning. Last night I hand scrubbed the kitchen and dining room floors. Today I am purging stuff from my kitchen (decor that I am tired of looking at!) and dusting off my plants and generally just cleaning the area. Perhaps if I pretend it is Spring, spring might actually arrive?

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-88238016208302401672009-03-11T14:58:00.002-04:002009-03-11T15:00:25.923-04:00

Last weekend I got fitted for the dress I will be wearing in my baby sisters wedding. The colors shown are different...mine will be chocolate with a cream sash. I'm not a real fancy girl, but it could be fun to get all dressed up for a day.

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-59434678333557910092009-03-11T08:40:00.002-04:002009-03-11T09:29:43.494-04:00

As you all know I have two incredible daughters. I like the way my family looks. I always wanted 3 or 4 kids, but The Designer only wanted two and I've had peace with that.So why now is my heart pitter-pattering a bit faster at the prospect of having a third child? Especially since the changes of it happening are a million-to-one?Here is a little background info.The Designer's cousin, K, has a

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-34804266688064405782009-02-26T16:56:00.003-05:002009-02-26T16:58:46.516-05:00

1 Thessalonians 2:4 MessageGod tested us thoroughly to make sure we were qualified to be trusted with this Message. Be assured that when we speak to you we're not after crowd approval--only God approval.Declaration of FaithMy heavenly Father has entrusted me with the Gospel, to spread it in my circle of influence. Therefore, I do not focus my attention on pleasing men but on pleasing God.(

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-87169140265849889262009-02-25T08:43:00.002-05:002009-02-25T08:51:19.612-05:00

Psalm 42:5,8,11 NKJVWhy are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me -- a prayer to the God of my life. Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-65926745384770148332009-02-24T08:38:00.003-05:002009-02-24T08:46:06.784-05:00

Luke 18:27 NKJVBut He said, "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God."Declaration of FaithEverything that is naturally impossible to me has become possible through the Holy Spirit dwelling within me.(Matthew 17:20; 19:26; Mark 9:23; 10:27; 11:22-25; Luke 1:37; Hebrews 11:1,6)**Taken from The Complete Personalized Promise Bible for Women.**

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-58087902812081535652009-02-20T11:10:00.003-05:002009-02-20T11:39:59.153-05:00

It seems like everything in the news is depressing. The world seems in mass confusion. The economy is disgustingly strained. Unemployment is almost to double digits nationally. Ethics are compromised by greed. We lie, steal, cheat, and murder and more every day these things become increasingly acceptable. It is easy to see why depression is escalating. It is easy to see why so many are

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-76190899176014413942009-02-16T08:13:00.002-05:002009-02-16T08:25:59.688-05:00

So far, during my online search, I have only found one ring that I really, really just had to see in person. One day last week I went to take a look and after trying it on, I still really liked it. The next step was to show The Designer the ring. On Friday he and I went to the store specifically to look at the ring. I tried it on. He looked at it. He made no comment about it one way or the

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-38851750938681964112009-02-16T07:49:00.002-05:002009-02-16T08:11:22.355-05:00

I wonder what God has in store for my future. I think about it often. I don't worry about it, just think about it.I loved, loved, loved being a high school teacher. I loved the connections I made with students and the difference that I made. I fully believe that is the career God intended for me. I miss it. Alot. I love that I have the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom, but that doesn't

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-8431585224340087482009-02-13T20:05:00.002-05:002009-02-13T20:44:45.763-05:00

Lil Princess is 18 months old today. I can't believe how fast the time has gone. We have actually had her in our lives as long as we officially waited for her to become a part of our lives now (i.e. from the time our profile was active until the day she was born). The wait for our child to find us seemed long and sometimes overwhelming, but the moment she was in our arms, the wait seemed almost

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-69093933316027608212009-02-09T23:24:00.003-05:002009-02-09T23:35:33.402-05:00

This morning I received a call shortly after Lil Bug left for school. It was her physical therapist, Mrs. S. I haven't spoken with her in a while, so it was good to touch base. Part way into the conversation she said, "You must have really been working hard with Bug while you were on vacation." Um, no? Not really?!?!According to Mrs. S, when Bug saw her (for the first time in over 2 weeks) she

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-72328780386746895952009-02-08T22:32:00.005-05:002009-02-08T22:48:20.050-05:00

About one month ago I noticed that my wedding ring was smashed...bad. One would think that I would actually recall something happening considering it was so disfigured, but alas, I don't.I need to get it fixed. I haven't yet so currently I am wearing another of my rings until I get my wedding ring back.Although I love having a wedding ring, I am not particularly attached to this particular ring.

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-54315641519477296022009-01-26T07:52:00.004-05:002009-02-07T21:43:31.087-05:00

As the parent of a beautiful little girl (who happens to have Spina Bifida) I really appreciated this video.Enjoy...

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-27219433991627687252009-01-21T11:45:00.002-05:002009-01-21T11:45:44.385-05:00

until we go to Disney World. And boy do I have one excited 4 year old!!!!!!!!!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-71608067253147956872009-01-20T08:49:00.002-05:002009-01-20T08:56:57.827-05:00

Mixed emotions today! As I mentioned in previous posts, I did not vote for Obama. However, I know history is in the making right now and that is very cool. I am proud that our nation has overcome their racist divisions and voted in an African-American. I have concerns about what our future as a nation holds, but for today, I set aside those fears and watch the inauguration with excitement and

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-44156340500469125022009-01-20T08:26:00.003-05:002009-01-20T08:49:34.108-05:00

I love that Princess will have established relationships with her birthparents so she can always know where she came from. She will always be able to look into their eyes and see her own. She will have the privilege of knowing that although she doesn't look like her parents, she can see exactly which of her birthparents she got her smile from, or the color of her eyes, or her laugh. The list

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-68443331240484411882008-12-29T07:54:00.002-05:002008-12-29T08:00:54.202-05:00

Last night (or was it early this morning?) I had a dream that I received a call from a friend (nobody I know in real life, but in my dream she was my friend) and she needed me to go to her OB appt. I knew she was planning to place for adoption and she wanted my support. When I got there, her boyfriend (the father of the baby) was there as well as the couple who planned to adopt the baby.My

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-83475761857699723862008-12-28T21:32:00.002-05:002008-12-28T21:36:06.547-05:00

I am 'borrowing' this from another blogger...Angel at The Voice of Adventure.

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-17620831652777788552008-12-23T16:28:00.001-05:002009-01-03T15:49:55.899-05:00

I'm NOT sorry my daughter makes you uncomfortable. That is YOUR problem, not hers, not mine, YOURS! GET. OVER. IT.There, I said it.I am a very sensitive person. I wear my emotions on my sleeve and hate when others are hurting or uncomfortable, especially if it is my fault in any way. I have no problem apologizing when I've done something wrong (and as many will attest, even if I haven't done

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-61290931280264842072008-12-23T16:23:00.004-05:002008-12-23T16:28:44.169-05:00

There is a law that goes goes into effect on Feb. 10, 2009 that will force Luckybug Boutique and almost every other small business that makes things for children (under 12) and babies to close up shop.It is sad. I like what I do and I have just started to get a good customer base. And, unless congress makes changes, I will have to stop.There are a ton of articles out there, but here is a link

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-71077801371296821312008-12-08T14:15:00.002-05:002008-12-08T14:22:54.827-05:00

Back in the spring of this year I began selling my items on Etsy.com. Although I have sell many, many more products off the site, I have had good luck with my Etsy shop. Recently, however, I have been hearing about a new competing site called Art Fire. So I wandered on over there to check it out. I have to admit...I'm rather impressed so far. I like that with a flat monthly fee of only $7

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-69385013493405118572008-11-29T08:41:00.003-05:002008-11-29T08:45:31.577-05:00

While at the mall earlier this week I noticed a lady wearing a shirt that read My child has Down Syndrome but the Down Syndrome was crossed out and it read HOPE instead..My Child has Hope!I went to the website that she bought it from and found the source to be very cool. They do not currently have one for Spina Bifida, however I have sent a request to see if they can make one that reads, "My

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-3954934657485059332008-11-29T06:52:00.005-05:002008-11-29T08:17:58.332-05:00

We are in remodel mode at our house. I am happy about it, but I hate the mess of a remodel job. My entire house is constantly covered in a light white dust...I wipe down and it comes right back. When it is all done it will be worth it though!Our house is a bi-level. The front door area is super small. You can fit 1 person on the landing and then you have to go upstairs to the main living area or

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-61570684104311465012008-11-26T20:11:00.001-05:002008-11-26T20:12:42.840-05:00

Check it out!I am offering 25% off on ALL products on Friday, Nov. 28th only. Please visit my shop and take a look around.Luckybug Boutique

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-81633591982231242192008-11-23T21:41:00.003-05:002008-11-23T21:59:47.327-05:00

It has been nearly a week and I think I might just now be ready to actually "talk" about it. I will give the very short version here, however, as I don't want to get into details for legal reasons.On Monday morning Bug was at school and Princess and I were running errands. When I got home I listened to our messages and Bugs preschool teacher had left a message something along the lines of, "

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-80678933726051460372008-11-23T21:34:00.003-05:002008-11-23T21:40:59.141-05:00

Jan. 15, 1993 was a day that changed my life forever. It was the very first time I ever laid eyes on The Designer. I was 16 years old. On Jan. 15, 2009 it will be exactly 16 years since we first met. After Jan. 15 I will have known The Designer longer than I have not known him in my life...it seems impossible really, but it's true.We have had ups. We have had downs. We have had excitement,

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-34773121373980285042008-11-13T12:26:00.003-05:002008-11-13T15:20:15.004-05:00

The train stopped and I got on today...*sigh*Let me start off by saying that I am pretty good about keeping the mommy guilt in check. It creeps in once in a while, but generally I am aware of the triggers and don't fall into the mommy guilt trap often. Getting to this place wasn't easy, but typically I'm there...today, however, my mommy guilt is in overdrive!At the end of last week Lil Bug and I

AJSnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-19723169122729654902008-11-06T21:56:00.001-05:002008-11-06T21:58:30.624-05:00

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-3798125573663530932008-11-05T10:21:00.005-05:002008-11-05T10:28:27.099-05:00

These were taken when we first tried on the costumes a week or so before halloween...try to ignore the obnoxious tags that are still attached. :)

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-74543505069036914052008-11-05T10:10:00.003-05:002008-11-05T10:16:15.860-05:00

here are some pics that make me smile and lift me up. Enjoy!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-53765855276037459162008-11-05T08:22:00.003-05:002008-11-05T08:28:01.596-05:00

Well, the election day has come and gone. I can say that I did not vote for the current president-elect. The reasons are personal and many. I am concerned about a "socialist" America. I'm worried about the direction of our country and its role globally. But, even so, I am proud to be a part of a country that looked past color last night and voted to elect the first African American president

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-49884803860513785222008-10-29T08:58:00.003-04:002008-10-29T09:05:32.001-04:00

No, seriously...I can't speak. I have completely lost my voice. What a strange feeling to open your mouth, form a word and nothing comes out except the occassional squeak. Annoying!The girls don't know what to think. But Lil Bug keeps telling me to "speak louder, mommy!" Apparently the whispers aren't working for her either.Of course, today I am supposed to teach but how does one lecture

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-85338078778179971842008-10-20T20:44:00.003-04:002008-10-20T21:16:11.876-04:00

I am still working on figuring out just what to write about this, but wanted to get it out there sooner rather than later if for no other reason than to use this blog as a diary of sorts. Since I don't write anything down anywhere else, this serves as my memory.Ever since Lil Bug was born I have always sensed there is something different, something special about her. I know that all people feel

AJSnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-87505160313437071502008-10-16T22:27:00.002-04:002008-10-16T22:28:30.417-04:00

I have a post I am trying to formulate about Lil Bugs relationship with God. For some reason it is hard to put to words. When I figure out just how to say what I want to say, I will share.

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-84898049887597477752008-10-09T22:29:00.002-04:002008-10-09T22:34:45.739-04:00

Lil Princess is finding her voice over the past couple of days. She says the normal "momma," "dadda," "done," etc. She signs milk, please, more and eat. But today she started to actually try to use real words. We had just arrived home after dropping Bug off to school and as I was unbuckeling Princess from her seat I said, "Time to get baby out of the car." So, for the next couple of hours

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-60655644139749538562008-10-09T22:23:00.003-04:002008-10-09T22:27:59.162-04:00

The girls are going to be bugs...ladybugs to be specific. The costumes are in the mail...I can't wait for them to get here! They will be so cute!!! Of course, photos will follow.I didn't expect them to be "matching" but Lil Bug really wanted her sissy to be the same as her. I figure this is probably the one and only year they will both think it is cool to be the same thing so why not let 'em,

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-78752578654778938262008-10-09T22:21:00.001-04:002008-10-09T22:23:07.262-04:00

I'm not sure which. I thought we were all healthy again for about 2 minutes and than BAM! Lil Princess and I have symptoms again. What the heck?!?! Oh well, it is just a cold, but still...how annoying?!?! The Designer and Lil Bug seem better for now at least. Yay!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-91249544229476219582008-10-06T11:23:00.002-04:002008-10-06T12:21:31.741-04:00

Dear friends and family! I am writing to you this morning to tell you that The Designer, Lil Bug, Lil Princess and I (along with some wonderful friends and family) are joining together to form Team Gracie at the 2nd annual STARS (Seeking Techniques Advancing Research in Shunts) walk-a-thon. The walk is on Saturday, Oct. 25th at 10am and it walks along the Grand Haven boardwalk (keep your fingers

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-28273780145027438972008-10-03T21:46:00.002-04:002008-10-03T21:52:42.974-04:00

for a new do! (please ignore the dark circles under my eyes...it's been a long week!)Before:After:

AJSnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-61084461581448314372008-10-01T09:28:00.002-04:002008-10-01T09:30:31.604-04:00

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-32043367762133042012008-09-28T14:37:00.003-04:002008-09-28T14:43:12.176-04:00

I wrote not long ago about how some miracles happen instantly while others are a process. Since before Lil Bug was born and still today I believe that miracles have happened and will continue to happen in her life. Even though I firmly believe this, I am surprised and ecstatic to say that God has worked yet again in her little life to do something truly amazing.The past couple of days Lil Bug

AJSnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-57388654451691010222008-09-28T14:27:00.003-04:002008-09-28T14:35:32.365-04:00

Yesterday was the first of 4 or 5 craft fairs I am doing this fall. I was hoping for a better turnout, but it wasn't terrible. I did alright with sales. I have added new product to my line including nursing covers, toddler pillows, toddler pillow cases, checkbook covers, burp clothes. Of course I still offered my mei tai style carriers and bibs. People seemed to really like the products as I

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-50703907974779649432008-09-16T13:14:00.004-04:002008-09-16T13:22:11.666-04:00

I saw this video on a friends blog and they had their post titled, "Just when I start to feel ok with dancing in church..."I am seriously speechless! No idea what to think about this...

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-28337862245372979122008-09-10T13:55:00.005-04:002008-09-10T14:27:26.234-04:00

STARS-kids strives to ensure a brighter future for shunted children. A shunt is the preferred treatment for hydrocephalus, a neurologic condition affecting 1 in 500 persons. Excess cerebrospinal fluid collects in the brain increasing intracranial pressure and compromising neurofunction. Shunt complications are common. Hydrocephalus is life-threatening. Research to create non-invasive treatment

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-28343901718711250522008-09-10T13:30:00.004-04:002008-09-10T13:54:13.289-04:00

When I first became a stay-at-home mom (modified version!) it quickly dawned on me that I no longer got "breaks" throughout my "work" day. I no longer earned vacation time or sick time. All of the fringe benefits were virtually gone. It was a rude awakening for me, let me tell you that! The Designer and I talked about it, the adjustments and my frustration and he made an offer I have yet to hear

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-31775452898055377662008-09-03T09:36:00.002-04:002008-09-03T09:39:36.522-04:00

It was 4 years ago this morning that I went to the dr. to get written permission to fly to California (to have Lil Bug by c-section as we were part of a study for prenatal surgery on Spina Bifida children). When I went to the dr.'s office they did an exam and said I was 2cm dilated and 80% effaced (sp?). They hooked me up to a machine and told me I was having regular contractions. And, with all

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-52346485222284031802008-09-01T21:31:00.003-04:002008-09-01T21:37:01.786-04:00

Well, you may or may not have noticed, but I was absent from blogland for the entire month of August. I have just one question...where did August go? I swear I was just gearing up for it and BHAM! before I could even process it, it was gone. What a shame.I have a ton of things to blog about but just don't have the time, energy or even the interest lately. So, I am going to start a list of

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-61647310937655520742008-07-30T14:05:00.002-04:002008-07-30T14:08:45.297-04:00

Please remember that my 25% off sale in my Etsy shop, Luckybug Boutique, ends tomorrow. Let me know if there is something you have your eye on.

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-31124903553729198872008-07-27T21:13:00.002-04:002008-07-27T21:37:38.247-04:00

This was my week to teach Sunday School at church. I only volunteer once a month because I am involved in other areas of ministry, but I do like the the one week a month that I get to be with the kiddos.Normally I am in the 1st service with the 3-year-olds, but today I filled in in the 2nd service 2-year-old room. The service lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes. It isn't hard to stay busy for that

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-11064110421098376382008-07-23T15:58:00.003-04:002008-07-23T16:04:39.620-04:00

I am offering an Etsy discount just for my blog readers through the remainder of July. If you click on the links to the left, it will take you to my Etsy shop or you can click here. If you see something you would like for yourself or as a gift, let me know you are a blog reader and I will discount your order by 25%. This discount will not be combined with the free shipping offer currently

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-10724105397992164672008-07-16T16:53:00.003-04:002008-07-16T18:22:08.345-04:00

I am about to embark on yet another step in my adoption journey. One that I never imagined, but I'm excited about it anyways.I think I mentioned a while back that I am on the steering committee for an orphan care ministry that was started earlier this year. It is really getting legs and I can see great things starting to come about in this group. I know that God is involved and I believe that He

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-50379617359533635742008-07-16T16:22:00.002-04:002008-07-16T16:45:21.929-04:00

Sometimes I think that people forget about all of the miracles that have happened in Lil Bugs life. When I was pregnant I would often pray that she would be born whole, with no hole in her spine. I prayed to God that she would come out with no brain damage, no spinal damage, no nerve damage. I used to bargain with God by praying things like, "I know you can do this, so if you do it for her, just

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-42645677063680809172008-07-10T07:25:00.005-04:002008-07-10T08:00:31.776-04:00

There is a small charity organization located on the other side of our state called STARS (Seeking Techniques Advancing Research in Shunts). Last October they held their first ever walk-a-thon (well, first for this area) and Bug and I were supposed to walk except the weather was awful, so I walked with my dad and left Bug behind (with her grandma). The purpose of the organization is just as the

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-43751200524560522012008-07-02T13:38:00.004-04:002008-07-02T14:15:39.854-04:00

A big thank you to Lisa who has honored me with an award from Arte y Pico. Lisa has been a Voyage follower for a long time and I appreciate her friendship, blogship and words of encouragement. Also, check out her blog...she and her hubby are this close to being a waiting adoptive family. WOOHOO! And, for those that are curious...they are going to make awesome parents!!!And the rules to go along

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-79147604538352103022008-06-24T21:35:00.002-04:002008-06-24T22:51:55.389-04:00

Last Friday Bug, Princess, my mom and I loaded up the Murano and drove down to Chicago. We went there for the purpose of meeting some of my adoption board buddies. In addition, we planned some other fun things to do.Princess is NOT a good car traveler. In fact, she hates it so much that she screams until she throws up (I know, not a good picture!). So, when we made it all the way to Chicago (

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-87457350250399166322008-06-15T23:15:00.003-04:002008-06-15T23:34:00.827-04:00

Twelve years ago today The Designer and I walked down the aisle and said our vows. We were young, both only 19. We had no clue what life held for us down the road. It didn't matter. We had each other and we had God and that was all we needed. As I sit here, watching the minutes pass until our anniversary is over, I thought I might write a letter to the girl that said her vows that day. I

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-15660037362666422672008-06-15T16:20:00.002-04:002008-06-15T16:38:17.007-04:00

This morning I was reminded that I am the blessed parent of a special needs child. Nobody pointed at her. Nobody said anything harsh or rude. Nobody did anything at all. This is what happened...We were on our way to church. Bug loves to "write" and draw so we always have a handy-dandy (aka a notebook) and some colored pencils so she can express herself. As soon as she was buckled into her

AJSnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-67454289786035906332008-06-13T17:29:00.004-04:002008-06-13T17:42:04.223-04:00

So, I just finished listing my new creation on Etsy (darling bibs!) and decided to go promote them in the Etsy chatrooms. While in there, I "window" shopped through the other shops and came across DelectableDelights. Take a look at those yummies! They will make you drool.If you aren't already doing so, go shop on Etsy. You can buy handmade products and find lovely, one of a kind goodies to give

AJSnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-34695353812317237512008-06-11T12:40:00.003-04:002008-06-11T12:54:38.459-04:00

Yesterday was the first day about a week that it wasn't raining with severe weather. We took advantage by first taking a walk (girls in the wagon) to the bank to make our deposit. When we got home we just played in the front yard. Take a look...Look how big I am!Gorgeous Bug!Scrunchy faceThis is the "I'm not happy" look. We see it more and more lately. :) If you look cloesly you can see that

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-91838195216797728632008-06-06T20:53:00.003-04:002008-06-06T21:07:33.208-04:00

We moved to Michigan just weeks before Lil Bug was born. In August it will be 4 years. You would think that I would be over it by now, wouldn't you? Well, guess what? I'm not. We moved to Colorado in 1998. We didn't know a single soul. We had no jobs. We had no place to live. We had no worries. No responsibilities. Nothing...it was AWESOME! It didn't take long for Colorado to feel like

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-10404755500664298812008-06-05T07:20:00.003-04:002008-06-05T08:40:09.876-04:00

For some reason I was laying in bed this morning thinking about when I was pregnant with Lil Bug. I don't often think about that time because it was so stressful. But this morning it dawned on me that it didn't have to be so stressful. It didn't have to be so scary.As you all know, we had difficulty conceiving a child and were only able to do so with medical assistance. When we were finally

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-56747524601529464182008-05-30T20:41:00.003-04:002008-05-30T20:54:03.538-04:00

Here are the pics, as promised. The hearing went off without a hitch. The judge was very nice. She really enjoyed the girls. First she had us bring Princess up and she officially granted the order of adoption. Once that was done she asked us to bring Bug up there and officially ordered her Big Sister. She even gave her a Certificate of Sisterhood and she signed and dated it. Both girls got to hit

AJSnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-32680025737214079902008-05-30T09:51:00.003-04:002008-05-30T16:43:39.660-04:00

I am going to post some pics from our finalization in the next post or two, but as I was thinking about what to write, some other adoption related feelings surfaced and so I am writing about those here first.I will start this by saying that I had/have mixed emotions going into finalization. I am thrilled, tickled pink that Lil Princess is our daughter. She is more perfect than we even imagined

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-79529803377386621282008-05-19T07:19:00.003-04:002008-05-19T09:08:31.209-04:00

I have to start out this post with an apology...I'm sorry. I'm sorry to those that are worried about me. I'm sorry to those that have needed me and I haven't been around.Thanks to all of you who have called, emailed and left comments inquiring about our wellbeing.You see, I haven't just been absent from blogland, but I have been rather absent in real life as well.To start, I'm doing well. The

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-60455496509191158212008-04-30T19:38:00.001-04:002008-04-30T19:41:18.664-04:00

And a couple of cute pics for good measure!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-68634531227042077152008-04-28T08:54:00.004-04:002008-04-28T20:17:19.945-04:00

Some background information: I volunteer in the 3 year old Sunday School classroom once a month. There are assigned "teachers" in the rooms, but then the volunteers "help" out. I don't love doing it, but I don't mind it either. I feel I should help out because I do have children in the Sunday School classrooms, so it is only fair.So yesterday was my day to take on the 3-year-olds. I was ready for

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-20546885989362515542008-04-24T07:17:00.002-04:002008-04-24T07:31:56.474-04:00

I emailed the coordinator or the nerve rerouting surgery I mentioned in my last post. She responded a couple of times.First, Bug has to be 6 years old before she can be accepted in the study. At first thought, that is disappointing. However, we know that God will take care of our daughter until the time comes for the surgery and cathing for a few more years is nothing, really.The results that

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-9524487689656516412008-04-18T16:10:00.002-04:002008-04-18T16:15:03.814-04:00

I just received an email from The Designer's aunt asking if I had heard anything about an experimental surgery being done in Detroit. It is a nerve-rerouting surgery for children with Spina Bifida. Seven children from around the country have gained bladder control back compliments of this surgery.Do you know what that means? Do you? AGGHHHH!!!!!! I am so stinkin' excited because that means

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-36688419299774933362008-04-13T22:44:00.002-04:002008-04-13T22:57:08.431-04:00

Lil Princess has been sick with a nasty cold for over a week. Instead of getting better, it has gotten worse. I have been worried for her over the past couple of days because she is coughing up lots of phlegm and rattling a lot. I finally decided enough was enough and brought her into the medi center tonight (Sunday night). He said her lungs were clear (YAY!) but that she has a massive double

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-44306199759911430292008-04-12T22:56:00.002-04:002008-04-12T22:59:56.168-04:00

I have made several carriers and sold them to people I know or friends of people I know, etc., but today was my first "real" sale to someone I don't know. Since this person is fairly local (maybe 20 mins away) I am thinking it might be someone whom I handed a card to in the mall one day. But, maybe not. Who knows. Regardless, I sold a carrier on Etsy and that is exciting.I have a craft show

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-82898240837171961732008-04-12T22:47:00.003-04:002008-04-12T22:56:33.364-04:00

I really want to scream right now. But, what is the point? At best, I might let go of a little bit of tension I have built up. At worst, I will lose my voice. So, I will just keep quiet and pray (and blog a little, I suppose).Sorry, this is going to be a boring post. I don't really have a lot to share publically. It really boils down to the fact that a couple of people that I care about are

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-23573116005695936522008-04-10T07:34:00.003-04:002008-04-10T07:50:48.471-04:00

Have you heard about this? You can call 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-4664-411) and they will connect you to a local business for FREE. I think the regular 411 is a couple bucks a call, but this is FREE.Oh, and if you have a phone with internet, they will send you a map of the area too! Gotta love GOOGLE.In case you don't believe me, look here: http://www.google.com/goog411/index.html(Nope, I wasn't

AJSnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-77176175947647784122008-04-08T18:48:00.003-04:002008-04-08T18:54:31.572-04:00

I have been talking about setting up this silly old Etsy store for some time and I finally got around to doing it today. You can go directly to www.luckybugboutique.etsy.com to see my goodies. Also, I have included a gallery (to the left) of some of the items I currently have listed. If you click on an item, it will take you there as well.Be honest, tell me what you think! I would love to

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-81770171267647777082008-04-07T10:55:00.007-04:002008-04-07T11:33:29.397-04:00

I have changed things up a little around here. Now that spring has FINALLY sprung, I have been spending much less time on the computer. As a result, I am not IMing much, reading blogs much, and obviously not posting much either.I have been outside enjoying walks, working in the yard and playing with the girls. I have also been sewing a lot. I am trying to get things up and running for my Etsy

AJSnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-13897062227870933542008-03-25T18:51:00.003-04:002008-03-25T19:09:07.829-04:00

We have a bedtime ritual around here. First I read 2 books to Lil Bug (and Princess too, if she will sit still to listen). One of the books must be Biblically based or about God. The other can be whatever Bug picks out. Often she picks out two Biblical stories. We sit on the couch and she drinks some juice or milk. Next we brush teeth and head to bed. We pray, ask for blessings on our

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-40555429351162151682008-03-25T18:41:00.002-04:002008-03-25T18:50:39.078-04:00

This is the first year Bug really got into coloring eggs. The previous years she would watch us do them, but this year SHE did them!This is the first moment Bug saw a hidden egg as she came out of her bedroom.She found the baskets!!!Bug's basket. It didn't have a lot this year, but she did get a fishtank and 4 goldfish.Princess exploring her basket.I must say, I have two beautiful girls! One

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-14506388923667089702008-03-22T20:40:00.000-04:002008-03-22T20:43:34.261-04:00

HE IS RISEN!!!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-13428289731347081552008-03-20T17:51:00.002-04:002008-03-20T17:57:40.116-04:00

If you read this then you know that we have been in limbo about whether or not Lil Bug might have to have craniofacial reconstruction surgery again. Since the neurosurgeon referred us to a plastic surgeon, we were under the impression that he thought it might be something we have to do. At the same time, he said he wouldn't need to see us again for a year. So, I left there thinking that she *

AJSnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-22023073317880028632008-03-14T17:14:00.001-04:002008-03-14T17:16:03.242-04:00

A few weeks ago our church announced that they are starting an orphan ministry and they asked if anyone was interested.Of course I signed up and last night was our first meeting. It was an introductory meeting, explaining who we are, why we felt led to that group and what direction would we like it to go.One of the myths I was prepared to address within the group (and the church as a whole, if

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-44452661535835559692008-03-14T16:40:00.001-04:002008-03-14T16:41:37.931-04:00

tooth! Yay! Finally, after months and months of working on it, Lil Princess has her first tooth.

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-83900143781367774672008-03-12T19:22:00.005-04:002008-03-12T21:52:25.757-04:00

***Warning, this post will get into some graphic descriptions of surgery, so if you have a weak stomach, you may want to steer clear of the text that is in blue. I am also including graphic photos at the end of Lil Bug after one of her surgeries***On Monday Bug had her annual checkup with her neurosurgeon. These appointments are always a little nerve wracking. Last year we thought we were going

AJSnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-17657862906873479502008-03-07T15:37:00.004-05:002008-03-07T16:07:17.089-05:00

This is our very first flight of our trip. See the guy in the background? Lil Bug didn't stop talking to this poor man. He was very tolerant of my little chatter bug.My dad with Lil Bug the first morning...it was kind of chilly considering we were on the Mexico border.This is not atypical for lawn ornaments in this area. Sadly, this is in my dads front yard! Bug loed the donkey, however. :)

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-60153108965307461272008-03-07T15:16:00.002-05:002008-03-07T15:37:23.198-05:00

Ok, so the first two parts document what I would honestly call the trip from hell. But, as is my personality, I always try to see the light whenever possible. So, I wanted to end this story with all the beauty I noticed during the trip.First and foremost, if you think humanity amongst strangers is gone, you are DEAD WRONG. Sure there were a large number of people who gawked at me as I tried to

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-69537689916148483642008-03-07T14:39:00.002-05:002008-03-07T15:16:11.967-05:00

Where was I? Oh yes, on our way to the one of the two hospitals in town. My dad told me that there is a large hospital and a small, new hospital. It was his experience that the ER in the smaller hospital was much faster and so that is where he took us. I didn't think to ask any questions and figured it was best to go wherever it was quickest.Bug suffers from chronic UTI's, so I suspected that

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-63892059590857754062008-03-06T07:07:00.004-05:002008-03-07T14:38:54.988-05:00

Wow! What a crazy week we had. I am not sure I even know where to start and I am guessing this post will be so long, most won't read it, so it will serve more as a journal for me than anything else.The girls and I left for Texas on Feb. 26 at 8am. We were going to Harlingen, which is near Brownsville, which is on the US/Mexico border. My dad winters there and had begged us to come down. I had

AJSnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-82440045113208480832008-03-06T06:56:00.002-05:002008-03-06T07:05:44.430-05:00

So I was tagged by http://gettingitoffmymind.blogspot.com/The rules are to link the person who sent this and leave a comment on their blog so their readers can visit yours.~Post the rules on your blog~Share 7 strange/weird facts about yourself~Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and link their blog~Let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogSo here goes1. I

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-71554331683498365522008-02-25T23:12:00.001-05:002008-02-25T23:13:26.431-05:00

Bye bye cyber friends! I will see you in a week. I honestly am having small anxiety attacks about not having access to the internet for a week so wish me luck!

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-83010849819682211412008-02-23T14:38:00.003-05:002008-02-23T14:43:03.704-05:00

The Designer and I don't get to spend as much time together as we would like these days. Between his work schedule and our beautiful children, alone time is very rare.About a month ago he left a card for me to "find" after he had already gone to work. I opened and found a sweet note saying, "Thank you so much for being such a wonderful wife and mother. The impact you are making on our kiddos

AJSnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-44514539249306972372008-02-23T14:31:00.002-05:002008-02-23T14:38:00.195-05:00

not sure there are many that read, so I am not sure I was "missed" anyway, but for the record...I AM BACK! :)I was so sick for so long that now I have a pile of things to dig out from under. I am thankful, however, that I am finally feeling better. Both girls and the Designer are feeling better too, praise God!The girls and I are leaving on Tuesday for Texas to visit my dad. I knew that we

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-16506178449197160762008-02-18T03:12:00.004-05:002008-02-18T03:32:55.750-05:00

I am awake. That is NOT good!So, we arrived home on Wednesday evening from our vacation. I was starting to feel a little "tension" in my chest, but figured it would soon subside after we were off flights, etc. Boy was I wrong...4.5 days later and I still feel yucky.Lil Bug woke up on Thursday sounding just fine but said that she didn't feel well. I kept her home from preschool. By Thursday

AJSnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197114992400776350.post-178328681405026452008-02-15T09:13:00.006-05:002008-02-15T10:55:43.689-05:00

Some background info to start...everyone in our house had the flu in the week leading up to our vacation. Lil Princess had it 3 different times. It was the 24 hour bug, not the REAL influenza, fortunately, but yucky just the same.The Designer had been working 65-70 hour weeks for about 4 weeks leading up to the vacation preparing for a huge presentation. He is the lead design architect at his

AJSnoreply@blogger.com5