The Jones Journey

I Will Never Leave You, Nor Forsake You

2012-01-28T19:38:00.000-08:00

Today was the hardest day of my life. I had ten minutes to see my sister through glass and communicate by phone.....it seemed like a nightmare I just couldn't shake. To be honest, it was all a blur. I don't remember anyone around me, I can't even recall her stripped attire. The one thing that remains vivid in my memory is her eyes....they said it all!

I'm so sorry

I don't know how this happened

Thank God you still love me

After we both wept for three minutes, I made her laugh....something we have always been able to do for each other in a time of turmoil! We had about eight minutes left and it seemed like the minutes were racing, and I just wanted to stop time! She wanted to know how my boys were doing.....they have a deep love for one another, and she would literally give her life for them. She wanted to know if I saw her on the news and how sorry she was to embarrass the family. I assured her I never saw the news and never cared to, and I could careless what anyone thought about her or our family. When I told her that so many people have offered kind, encouraging words, she was in disbelief that anyone would speak anything of her but criticism.

She was proud to tell me that she enjoys the church ladies that come to speak, and she has started reading the bible. I expressed my sadness for where she was but at the same time, a feeling of peace.

I know it's going to be a long, hard road but you can have a fulfilling life when this is all over, and it's a chance to heal....a new beginning!

She didn't say a word, she couldn't......with tears streaming down her face, she nodded and mouthed the words "I know."

Then our moment was abruptly terminated as they escorted me out of the room.

I wanted to bust through the glass, grab her, and run for dear life. I wanted to bring her home for dinner at my parents like we do every weekend. I wanted her to walk through the front door and my boys run and jump in her arms....I wanted everything to be the way it was.

Then, God reminded me.....this is what it's going to take to save her life, let go and let me.

I know it's the truth, I found a letter she wrote me just before she was arrested.

Hey Sis, I know your angry I took the selfish, easy way out. I want you to know I struggled with this decision for about 20 years. This life was never really for me and I've never known what's wrong with me, but I've never been happy. I'm sorry I was never the sister you deserved. Please do me a favor, I love those boys more than anything in the world and they think I hung the moon. They have not been jaded by the truth yet, please don't let people ever talk bad about me in front of them. Please don't let them know their aunt was a drug addict. I love you very much and I hope you have a wonderful life!

Love Carrie

If she wasn't arrested when she was, I believe we would have found her dead.
I'm praising God through this storm and I know he is at work!

Addiction is a battle my sister has fought since she was sixteen and it's consumed her entire life. She has a good heart and she wants to live a happy life, she just can't seem to find her way out. Her careers have included law enforcement, paramedic, and military..........she always wanted to save other people, but never found a way to save herself.

Tonight I was looking at pictures.....

and wondered, how in the world did this happen? Where did this little girl go? How do we save her?

I'm not sure, but I do know.....I will never give up and neither will God!

I will never leave you nor forsake you.
Hebrews 13:5

Until Next Time.....

2011- Best Year Ever!!

2012-01-15T12:08:00.000-08:00

The year of 2011....Lets see, where do I begin? In 2011 our cup surely ranneth over, to say the least. It was jammed packed with BIG changes and even bigger blessings!

Chris got a load master position with the Air Guard, which had us traveling a good bit....we lived in San Antonio & Oklahoma for several months, and enjoyed a brief stay in Florida.

He now flies with the C-17, and I'm so proud of my Top Gun!

As for me and my biggest accomplishment, I had the natural birth of my dreams......

and this blue-eyed beauty made our family complete!

My Colby man entered the world of soccer...

and turned "4"!!!

Chase still hasn't learned to talk very well, but he has conquered the potty!!

We decided to move to the Rez, since it's more convenient.....closer to Chris's new job and a skip away from all the activities we enjoy!

We started our New Year's festivities with my life-long friend and her kiddos......

Angie & Josie

(Sorry you must tilt your head sideways, but I'm done with the stubbornness of these pics!)

then kept the par-tay going with some of our favorites!!!
We all cooked up some calzones (so fun).....

Kim & Me

Gary & Shannon

Kevin & Kim

and rang in the New Year with a baby in tow and a cheesy toast!!

2011 bestowed blessings galore, and we are beyond grateful!

Until Next Time............

Hook em!!

2012-01-13T17:19:00.000-08:00

Do you have a boppy still lingering around that you just can't let go of......since that would mean your sweet baby is no longer a baby?! If you have had a baby in the last few years then I'm sure you do! Well don't think once your baby is done breastfeeding that it has served its purpose.....oh no mam, the fun is just beginning for your beloved boppy!

HOOK EM!

If you have wild boys that get thrills from rough, tough chaos then use Mr. Boppy to Hook em.....they will beg for more!

You can Hook & Pull...

or really get crazy with the Hook & Throw......

Either way.....it's fun had by all!!!

Until Next Time.....

Christmas 2011

2012-01-01T19:01:00.000-08:00

I hosted my first Christmas dinner this year, and I have to admit I was proud.....it was delish! I kept it simple with a honey baked ham, Paula Dean's green bean casserole, grandma's dressing, a fruit salad, french bread, and a chocolate chip cookie dough pie that was divine!!!

Nanny and Pawpaw Mike came to celebrate Christmas Eve and....

brought the boy's some cool laptops.....you really cant get any cooler than Thomas on your computer, right?

Aunt KK brought a gift that was definitely a necessity.....a gigantic body ball!! I mean everyone needs a ball they can climb in, roll around crazy, and break a bone!

It was a hit with my crazy squirts!!! If aunt KK had kids it would be payback for sure, but since she has a girlfriend and no desire to have children I will have to get creative!

KK & Melissa helped the boys make a choo choo train to leave out for Santa.....cookies just wouldn't cut it!

My exuberant boys got their Pj's on in a flash, leaped into bed, and.....

enjoyed The Night Before Christmas!

We really tried to emphasize that Christmas is Jesus's birthday and not theirs, so we got them a few of their favorite things but kept it extremely simple!

Except this bad boy.....

It was their one big gift! Colby has had one for two years now and they fought over it all the time....now they can ride together!!

I'm glad we kept it simple since this little guy was Colby's MOST FAVORITE TOY OF ALL!!!

It didn't take much for Chasey Poo either.....the flashlight stole the spotlight!!

Christmas day was celebrated with the Jones crew, and Coach & Jojo showered the boys with more presents than Santa!

Colby could not get enough of his leap pad, which he calls his IPad....so he can be like Daddy.

We are beyond blessed and Christmas 2011 was the best.............

just ask my sweet baby girl!!

Until Next Time

Colby's 4th Birthday!

2011-12-21T20:39:00.000-08:00

My sweet Colby turned ONE, and being a baby was done!

He turned TWO.....oh how the time flew!

Then, with a blink of an eye he was three.....how could it be?

Now my big boy is FOUR.....Oh Lord!

Colby man is quite obsessed with airplanes, especially since his daddy got a new job flying with the C17, so an airplane party it was!

Saturday, the morning of his party, we let him open a gift! Any kind of art brings joy to his little heart!

Yes. he has on Chase's PJs and yes, I wrapped his gift in a baby bag from Josie's shower.......we do what we have to do around here!

Daddy served up his favorite breakfast and added a special touch!

We headed to the park to celebrate with family & friends!

(I thought these candy airplanes were just too cute!)

December 19th was the real deal! I created a birthday entrance, and it was a hit with my little squirt!

Make a wish!

We got our jump on at Pump It Up.......

with his bestie, Kate!

Next, we had a pizza picnic at the park......we can't get enough of the park!

Went home to finish off the left over cupcakes.....Yummy!

Colby's tip: Never leave cupcake on the paper...that's a waste!

Colby & Kate had some great balloon adventures!

I just love the imaginations of 4 year olds!

We celebrated his "4th" birthday in so many special ways, it certainly was a terrific day!!

Until Next Time............

Special Birthday Knife

2011-12-15T18:55:00.000-08:00

Granny Bub, Baby girl's great-grandmother, and Aunt Michelle gave Josie the most precious baby gift ever, a Special Birthday Knife!

Get a tissue!

The knife comes with a tear jerker poem.....

This is a very special cake knife

as you will see.

You will use it to cut Josie's

birthday cake for many years to be.

While she is so tiny

it is hard to believe,

one day she will be all grown up

and ready to leave.

A trip down the aisle she will also take.

a home of her own she will make.

When she is ready to cut her

wedding cake,

she will have the perfect "old"

birthday knife to take.

ready to leave?......Oh heavens, not something I want to think about at all!

We shed a few tears but kept it together and it's something I will cherish forever!

Until Next Time...........

Babywearing Daddy

2011-12-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

There is something so sweet about a babywearing daddy, right? I have heard the claims that Orlando Bloom is even sexier now that he is sporting his baby boy........

I agree, but I know an even hotter babywearing daddy.........

Until next Time.............

Pinterest Makes You Do Crazy Things!

2011-11-21T19:31:00.000-08:00

The boys were peacefully building a tower, so I seized the moment to browse pinterest, which I should never do when I'm hungry! I ran across these yummy looking cookies...........

I thought it would be tons of fun for the boys to make a turkey cookie, so I loaded the crew up, and we headed to the grocery store to get the goods!

I assumed this little trip would be easy breezy, in and out in no time and well on our way to the bake off.......I should never assume such a thing with my crazy circus!

First of all, while I was trying to decide if I should spend three dollars on icing just for a beak and legs I was interrupted by a man....

Mam, are you smothering your baby in there?

Why yes I am, how did you ever know? Yes, she is in there smothering and I'm just going about my shopping! (No, I didn't respond rudely, it was just a thought.)

No Sir, this is a baby wrap that is very safe....she is sleeping and she loves it!

Okay, just wanted to make sure!

Thanks!

While I was trying to convince the concerned man that my baby was breathing, Chase started to escape from the buggy car and had one leg hanging out of the door. An elderly man shouted,

"WOW WOW THAT YOUNGIN HAS HIS LEG HANGING OUT OF THAT THERE BUGGY, YOU GONE RUN HIM OVER!"

He was so loud that I was startled, and everyone now had their eyes on what he thought was a near tragic event.....Lord help, I believe he thought it was a real car.

Finally, I made it to the check out and could see the end in sight, but there was a problem. The lane fits the monstrous car buggy, but it's a tight squeeze...no room for a mommy wearing a baby to nudge through. In order to put my groceries on the counter, I had to walk around through the next lane to get to the front of my buggy. In just those few seconds, Colby managed to make his way to the top of the car to help with the groceries.

Great! I couldn't get through the God forsaken mini lane to get him down. I just focused on getting done and out of there asap. The cashier handed me my receipt and murmured,

GOOD LUCK WITH YO CHIREN!

Thanks, I think.

Pinterest makes you do crazy things!!

I let the boys make the cookies, needless to say they weren't picture perfect but they were delish!

Until Next Time.............

Josie Kathryn's Birth Story

2011-11-14T14:22:00.000-08:00

Having three kiddos three and under has been an adjustment, to say the least! Some days I'm lucky to get a shower, crap let's be even more honest.....I'm lucky to even get my teeth brushed (If we have crossed paths lately, I apologize for my coffee breath). It has been a little crazy at our house, but it's a good kind of crazy that I love! Having three is an entirely new ballgame since we are outnumbered by our offspring, but we are starting to get the hang of things, for the most part. It's taken me five weeks to actually sit down and write my birth story, but today is a successful day............

Birth story- Check
Shower-Check
Brush Teeth- Check

SCORE!!

It's times like this I wish I were a writer and could describe my experience in words that would serve it justice, but I'm not so I will just have to take Colby's advice......."Just petend mommy",

so here it goes!!

The entire last month of my pregnancy I experienced pre-labor, which made me believe everyday was the day, to no avail. It got to the point of Chris ignoring me when I expressed concerns of being in labor, I didn't blame him though!

We really tried to squeeze in as much quality, fun time with the boys before baby girl decided to quit playing around and join our crazy life!

The night of my due date I got the boys fed, bathed, and tucked tightly into bed and my prayers went a little something like this.............

Dear Lord,
What is she waiting on? I'm not rushing, I want her to be ready, but how long is this going to take? I'm getting quite anxious so send a little patience my way please!

He sent more than patience, he sent a little pep in her step!
Around 10:00pm, I started having contractions every 20 minutes and they continued to get stronger. I was determined to get the much needed rest for the marathon I was about to endure. I was able to sleep until 2:00am, at which point I had to breath through the contractions as they were having a party every 7-8 minutes. I began gathering my belongings together and my sweet Colby man tip-toed into my room and was curious as to what in the world I was doing. I explained that Josie was telling mommy that she was on her way and his response was.....

Really? I can't wait! I'm going to sit right here with you! When are you going to push?

God love him! He was somewhat disappointed when I broke the news that I was going to the hospital and he was staying with Nanny and there would be no pushing anytime soon. I called my mom to inform her that it was time. Colby went back to sleep once he realized there would be no pushing, and Nanny arrived in the next 30 minutes.

Chris was in the bed with Chase and it felt so fantastic to say, "get up, it REALLY is time!"

I waited until about 5:00am at which point my contractions were 5 minutes apart, and I gave my doula and doctor a call and after much deliberation, decided to make our way to the hospital.

We checked in, got comfortable, and I was ready to tackle the challenge that I knew would change my life forever.
I spent 9 months preparing for a natural birth. I prepared my body, mind, and soul, and I was more than ready! I can honestly say I had NO FEAR, only confidence! My priest told me FEAR STRANGLES HOPE......and I held onto his words!

I prayed about every specific aspect of my birthing experience, and the stars lined up in my favor for sure. Karen Vandervelde was the nurse that I prayed for and she arrived 10 minutes after I checked in......AMEN! This women was God sent, literally! She has had 7 natural labors and 2 homebirths, need I say more. She was everything I was hoping for and then some!

When I arrived to the hospital, I was already at 5cm and feeling great, which was definitely a highlight and confidence booster!
My bestie, Kim, arrived and documented my entire birth experience. I will forever be thankful for the time and love she put into my family that day....love her bunches! (Birth Video Here)

Chris was a dream....honestly, I could not have done it without him. He held my hand, walked the halls, brushed my hair out of my face, applied pressure to my back and chap stick to my lips, massaged, offered encouraging words at the PERFECT time, danced with me, and gave me strength! I felt the ultimate love! He was my rock, and I understand now why a friend of mine told me that it took her marriage to another level. It's an event that extremely intensifies your love for one another in a way that is unexplainable and unforgettable.

I was at 7cm by 9:00am and quickly progressed to 9cm by 10:30am. I used hypnobirthing and was able to go to a happy place....it made all the difference in the world. I was thrilled that labor was progressing so quickly and I could see the high fives in my near future, but I got way ahead of myself. I guess Josie wanted to take a little nap before making her voyage. I stalled at 9cm for five hours. Yes, I said five hours. Five hours of muscling through contractions every 3-5 minutes. I used all the hypnobirth methods, prayer, and the love and support of my birthing team which allowed me to stay calm, cool, and collective! Around 3:30pm I felt like somebody poured a bucket of tired all over my body and it was getting difficult to recompose between contractions....by that time the two minute breaks felt more like two second breaks.

I asked everyone how much longer can I stay at 9cm and my nurse replied,
"as long as it takes, and you are doing great!"

It was all I needed.....all I needed to refuel and not feel defeated!

Karen decided to check me in hopes of gaining that one centimeter I was desperately seeking, and all the sudden my water broke or should I say exploded and I felt an instant relief, overwhelming joy, and a contraction that didn't seem to quit!

Now I had to put on my game face because it was finally game time!! I asked Karen how would I know it was time to push and she assured me, "your body will tell you exactly what to do!"

She was right! I suddenly got this intense urge to push so I started bearing down and trying to breath baby girl down. It happened so quickly that it caught everyone off guard. Since no one was really paying attention or saying anything about a baby's head, I was wondering why in the world it felt like I was giving birth.....the ring of fire was undeniable! Finally, Chris announced, "I think that's her head!"

Oh thank goodness, I knew something was going on down there! I reached my hand down and felt her entire head and my body was taken over with emotions that I didn't know were humanly possible. Dr. Sims rushed in and with the next contraction and with all my might I pushed baby girl into this world and she was immediately placed on my chest!

She laid on my chest and radiated peace from her little angelic face. It was as if she had found exactly what she was looking for, she was home. We waited for her cord to stop pulsating and she was ready for our bodies to separate. No one interfered with our bonding. There were no drugs, no whisking her away, sticking her with needles, rubbing ointment in her eyes, roughly scrubbing her down, no one doing unnecessary procedures.

It was the most gentle birth and was exactly what I imagined.......my baby girl only surrounded by the love that created her!

Josie remained close to my heart and nursed until her little heart was content. A few hours later she weighed in at......

7.2lbs
19 1/2 inches

She never left my side again!

I've experienced birth with an epidural, and now I've had a complete "pure" birth with no interventions and I would choose "pure" all day long! I realized I can take drugs to take away most of the pain, but it also takes away the euphoria!

I feel in my heart that I gained what God intended for my life and it was empowering and life-changing!

Josie Kathryn Jones
10-10-11
3:46

Josie didn't even have a bath at the hospital....we kind of forgot and then we went home the next day. Once we got home, I thought it would be nice for her to take the first relaxing bath with mommy, but two little squirts had to join the fun!

I don't think Josie would have wanted it any other way!

My Fab Family of Five!

Thank You!

Dr.Shane Sims (The best doctor ever!)

Karen (my wonderful nurse)

Jess Be (my fantastic doula)

Kim (my incredible friend & photographer)

& of course

my MIL & Mom!

Until Next Time..............

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T20:02:00.000-07:00

I had a cute crew last night....Spider man, Pooh Bear, and little Ms. Pumpkin!

Spider man not only saves the world but also shows his sensitive side for a little pumpkin that has stolen his heart!

We joined great friends and got our celebration on!

Kim made the cutest, yummiest snacks, and

the kiddos kept sneaking a bite between jumping on the couches and bouncing off the walls!

The sunset told us game time was quickly approaching...

so we began the photo shoot,

but no one could tame Pumba......

not even Nala!

He was out of control!

Pumba made Pooh laugh so hard his big ole belly was shaking like a bowl full of jelly!

Kim, being the best hostess that she is, passed out rounds of coffee which made trick-or-treating that much better!

We guided the herd down the path and started our journey.

Can you imagine opening your door to this gang? Their cuteness would cause you to dump all your candy in their bags!!

Chasey Poo checked out his very first treat! I think he was a little confused and didn't quite realize that it was candy.....he was throwing all his treats to people as if he was in a parade. When it was all said and done, he went home with one piece of candy in his pumpkin bag, and could careless!

Colby found a neighborhood friend that was also a spider man and they felt a connection.....I assume it's a super hero thing!

Spider man 1 & 2 didn't even know the face under the mask, but it wasn't important......united they were stronger!

We hit up as many houses as possible until all the little legs were exhausted!

Don't fret.....spider man forces still stayed intact!

Chase was hoping after he shed the big belly that Stella would notice him, but he didn't have a chance....she was too busy decorating cookies on her phone.

Colby was pumped about all the candy that was almost over flowing from his bag, but me....ummm, not so much! Sugar makes him a complete maniac!

We made a deal tonight that made both of us happy as a pig in sunshine! He left his candy bag out for the candy fairy who left him an awesome gift in exchange!!

The Candy Fairy was even so sweet to leave his favorite.....a sucker!

Until Next Time............

My Birthing Journey- Continued

2011-09-16T18:57:00.000-07:00

I'm one lucky lady to have such great girlfriends! I didn't expect a baby shower at all.....3 showers in less than four years is a bit much! Even though they shouldn't have, I'm so glad they did!!

Keifer's yummy food, delicious cake, good friends, and girly gifts......it was a perfect night!!

Now I'm ready for baby girl to make us a family of five.....wow that sounds crazy!

I'm 37 weeks and dilated 1.5cm, so she has decided to get the show on the road! It's just a waiting game at this point! I could be wrong, but I have thought all along that my actual due date is Sept 19, we shall see!

You remember that Christmas gift....Bed & Breakfast at Wisteria Inn! Let's just say we should have named baby girl Wisteria! It was the first and only night I have ever been away from Chase.....Chris better come up with a different Christmas gift this year!

I've been getting ready for Josie's arrival. My home waterbirth was squashed by our insurance company. Insurance only covers Certified Nurse Midwives and there isn't one in Mississippi, unfortunately. I was pretty bummed, as for my friends and relatives.....some shared my bummness and others were relieved!

However, I'm very happy with the hospital I chose and my new doctor is FABULOUS!! Both have been very accommodating and are very supportive of natural birth!

I also love my doula which will be a huge support! I met her for lunch yesterday and discovered that she had a home waterbirth and her little man was almost 10lbs......with that said, she will know exactly what I'm going through and then some, and will be able to offer a tremendous amount of support!

This is way off topic but I was intrigued............

Her baby was almost 10lbs and she pushed for four hours, but guess what.....no tear and no episiotomy (which I believe is the most painful part of birth or afterbirth I should say)!

She would never have been allowed to push for four hours in a hospital without being rushed off for a section, heck she probably would have been pressured to have an elective section after being told her baby was too big. She would have missed out on her beautiful birth experience that she desired!

It's just a great example to trust a woman's body and its capabilities!

My plan is to stay at home as long as possible and labor in the comfort of my own home and then head to the hospital towards the very end, and experience a beautiful, natural birth!!

I said.... it's a plan!

I'm also aware that plans can change!

Until Next Time.................

Dinner In 20 minutes : Ham & Cheese Calzones

2011-09-02T18:06:00.000-07:00

Ham & Cheese Calzones are so quick and easy, my three year old cooked dinner!!

What you need:
1 can refrigerated pizza crust
16 slices of shaved honey ham
1 cup shredded cheese
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 tomato (optional)

Have one cutie-ba-tootie roll out the pizza crust.....

Cover half of the crust with ham, after taking a bite of each piece.....

Mix cheese and ranch dressing together.......

Spread the mixture over the ham.............

Only put tomatoes on one side, gotta keep one side kid-friendly................

Pull crust over and cover up the goodie filling.................

Pinch sides down with a fork.............

Put it in the oven on 400 for 16-18 minutes and feel free to watch it cook.....it's pretty exciting ;)

Voila......easy, quick dinner!!!

Add some fruits and veggies...............

and enjoy a picnic so the clean-up will only consist of a spray down with the hose!!!

Isn't he one handsome chef??

Until Next Time................

Fear Strangles Hope

2011-08-28T08:58:00.000-07:00

I am always humbled how a few words spoken during church can make such a drastic impact in my life....especially since a few words might be the only words I hear the entire service, courtesy of two exuberant, little squirts!

During the homily this morning, Father exclaimed, "FEAR WILL STRANGLE HOPE!"

It played in my head over and over, and was causing me to focus on many things in my life right now, but in particular, one specific thing that had actually brought tears to my eyes just moments earlier.

FEAR WILL STRANGLE HOPE

FEAR WILL STRANGLE HOPE

FEAR WILL STRANGLE HOPE

As a mom, I tend to hold onto fear when I should just let it go, give it to God, and let it be!

Fear can eat away at a heart...............

Am I raising my children as Christ would.....after all, they are HIS children?

Am I pleasing in God's eyes with my choices of discipline?

Am I always forgiving, gracious, and understanding as he ask of me?

Am I guiding my children down the right path that will make them men after God's own heart?

If you remember my post about losing my patience with Colby and delivering a not so pleasant God-awful face that was eye opening when he threw it right back at me. Why would I expect anything less....children imitate the ones they love!

Remember this face.............

(He does tend to exaggerate a tid bit!)

It definitely isn't heartwarming to see your negative flaws displayed in your children! I chose to use it, grow, and make a change, but fear in my heart has a way of lingereing!

This morning we entered the house of the Lord and Colby dipped his fingers in the Holy Water, went down on one knee and did the sign of the cross before taking his seat, and then kneeled next to his daddy and prayed before the music filled the air!

Talk about one proud mommy!

Talk about my heart pounding!

Talk about a lump in my throat!

Talk about the tears in my eyes!

Talk about a sense of pride that released all fear from my heart!

Then the spoken words actually traveled from the alter and leaped directly into my heart!

FEAR WILL STRANGLE HOPE!

God was saying to me...........you've got this, but most importantly, I'VE GOT THIS!

Yes, there will be days that I will feel like my parenting actions have failed to display the love of Christ, but I won't let it become fear in my heart anymore, since fear strangles hope!

What an amazing gift to give my children and myself, HOPE!

I John 4:18
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has punishment. He who fears is not made perfect in love.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the LORD, and He heard me,And delivered me from all my fears.

Until Next Time..................

My Birthing Journey- Why a Natural Birth?

2011-08-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

Why do you want a natural birth? A question I have received a few times, and I never really know how to answer it......since it's a loaded question!

If I could sit down for hours over coffee, then maybe! But, it's too difficult to answer quickly.

The question doesn't bother me at all, but usually the ones that ask have never had any interest in learning about birth, so I don't even know where to begin!

I'm definitely not saying natural is the right choice, there are no right choices....you just have to find the right choice for you! I love everything about birth, and I'm really passionate about gaining knowledge on all things birthing. I would love to become a doula.....actually I probably will in the future. Everything about birth is extremely intriguing to me, and I just can't get enough....I could read birth stories all day long, and study all about birth until I'm blue in the face!

I know not everyone else shares the same passion, so I'm not surprised when someone confusingly says, "why would you have a natural birth?" I just know that I have a different knowledge and perspective on the topic since it's an interest of mine....which is OKAY, different strokes for different folks!

There is an endless list of reasons why natural is the choice for me....

I know that any artificial interruption in birthing, even for the best of intentions, adds risks. Whenever we interfere with the normal process of birthing, we increase the risks to both the mother and her child. I also realize that all medications taken during pregnancy are passed to the baby to one degree or another.

It's about making the safest, gentlest choices for the well-being of my child, but as important as the health aspect is to me, it isn't the biggest factor in my desire to go natural.

I don't believe that birth is a medical emergency! Just like my heart knows to beat and my lungs to breath.....my body knows how to birth my baby!

The birth of my boys both included interventions for one reason or another, so I've been there and done that! I want a completely "PURE" experience with this birth.

Of course, I'm not going into this with unrealistic expectations and I'm not against intervention if it's a medical emergency, but I am preparing for the best possible chance of achieving the birth experience I desire!

I feel in my heart that natural childbirth is a gift of divine creation. It's a defining moment in our lives , a time when we meet ourselves and allow our greatest potential to be filled. I believe the soul is tied to the experience of childbirth and God uses it in a profound way. Through speaking with women about their natural birth expereince I have learned how amazing, beautiful, and completely encompassed in love natural childbirth can be!

I want a Gentle birth for baby girl. I want her to be born in peace, balance, and harmony with life. The first steps in her new little life and the experience will teach and imprint her deeply.

From a Christian perspective, experiencing natural childbirth gave me a deeper understanding into the meaning of the Bible passage, "But women will be saved through childbearing" (I Tim 2:15) This is not referring to salvation from eternal death, but to something quite different. There are many different interpretations and lines of thought on this passage. But to me it has become clear that God has used the "curse" of the Fall (for man, hard and unproductive labor in their lifework, for women, pain in childbirth) to also be our greatest blessings. Who would deny that men find some of their greatest blessings and self-identity through hard work and discovery/industry/building/etc.? And I know now that women can find some of their deepest grounding, meaning, and self-identity in the pain of childbirth. Our curse has become our blessing.

Diana

________________________________________________________________
Today we went to Big Brother/Sister class and had a great time! Colby didn't pay much attention..surprise surprise, and when the teacher asked if there were any questions he raised his hand and asked the most important question of all, "can we have one of those cookies now?"

I will have to admit that he had some skills in the diaper changing department...I just might put him to work!!

Chase didn't quite get his badge in the diaper changing challenge, but he sure knows how to share the love!!

I was proud of my little graduates!

Until Next Time...............

Fill My Cup

2011-08-19T12:20:00.000-07:00

I have really let the rat race of life make me throw a pity party for myself these last few weeks, but thank goodness my Lord and Savior knocked me over the head with some clarity!!

As you know, I've basically been a single mother while Chris has been on orders....by the way, I don't know how single mothers do it all, and when my children are older, I plan on finding a single mother and making her a ministry of mine...SERIOUSLY!

Meeting the needs of a one and three year old while I'm 33 weeks preggo without the relief of my wonderful hubby coming home has had quite a few challenges! I have allowed those challenges to bring out the worst in my mommy abilities and I have to admit....I am so ashamed. Colby, my limit pusher, has seen better days of his mommy, for sure!

He is full of life, active is an understatment, persistently stubborn, and he is so stinking smart that he pushes me to the limit with his logical arguments. I have been losing my patience with him and getting extremely aggravated with his behavior. I know it's his temperament, age, and the fact that he really misses his daddy, but in the moment I lose sight of it all, and I behave in a manner that I know isn't grace-based and doesn't reflect the love of Christ!

In the last few days, I know my tone, facial expressions, and body language have been reflecting nothing short of EXASPERATED and that is not the message I ever want to send to my child!

On top of that, Chase is not a high-need child AT ALL, so I'm sure Colby feels as though he is to blame since the attack seems to be aimed in his direction.

Colby is not the one to blame...I AM!

I took Colby to preschool this morning and it was all weighing heavy on my heart! We said a little prayer together before getting out of the car, and then I continued to talk to the Lord as I drove home!
I love pouring my heart out to the Lord because I'm always amazed by his answers.

Long story short....he told me LOUD AND CLEAR I needed to fill my cup up more and start making it a priority.....no matter how difficult it is to find the time!

As soon as Chase went down for nap, I was on a mission to fill my cup and I did exactly what was on my heart....I knew it was God-led!

I decided to watch one of Chip Henderson's sermons, but God had a different plan! I went to Pinelake Sermons and the very first thing that caught my eyes were the words.... Life Moments! I was so drawn towards it that I knew it was a message for me. The message was from a guest speaker, and it was AMAZING!

August 7: Life Moments from Pinelake Church on Vimeo.

I'm always in awe of God and his way of carrying me through life trials! He specifically answered every single prayer I layed at his feet.....I sure do serve a mighty God!

I hope you take a moment to listen to the message....it's worth every minute of your time!

Insights from the message that God used to speak directly to me....

Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift.....that's why they call it the PRESENT!

Following Jesus isn't always easy, but it's not complicated...Love God and love people!

Soak up the moment, slow down, and treasure it!

Don't just do life and miss the moments.

Remember to say each day, "I'm the most fortunate woman on Earth!"

Most importantly:

BE JOYFUL ALWAYS, PRAY CONTINUALLY, GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THIS IS GOD'S WILL FOR YOU IN CHRIST.
1 THES 5:16-18

Until Next Time..............

Chase Loves...............

2011-08-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

My little Chasey Poo at almost 19 months LOVES..................

Loves his new big boy bed!
He holds me captive until he falls asleep, which I don't mind at all! He curls up next to me, usually cheek to cheek and throws his little arm around me.....moments I will never forget! He usually wakes up at least once during the night and sits straight up in the bed until I return to his side, then he calmly conforms back to his nestled position and drifts back off to dreamland!

Loves his Big Brother!
I heard a sweet sound, so I peaked in and found him rocking Chase and singing Jesus Loves Me.....melted my heart on the spot!

Loves to potty with Colby!
Colby has practically potty trained that little squirt!

Loves to eat outside!
Frankly, he just loves being outside period.

Loves his cheese smile for pics!

Loves his favorite word...MORE!

MORE is a good word for him since he has a way of making me fall in love MORE & MORE with each passing day!

Until Next Time.........

Two Tricks for an Easier Birth!

2011-08-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

I love talking it up with other mommies who have had a natural birth....each and every mom has different advice and tips to help with birthing! Madeline gave me a little insight on the benefits of dates and red raspberry tea! I took myself down to Rainbow Natural Foods and purchased these goodies today.....easier birth here I come!!

(BTW...if you ever need support with a VBAC, Mrs. Thing had herself a beautiful VBAC at home! Read her birth story here!)

Eases child-birth: Eating dates eases the pain of childbirth. Scientifically they are known to contain hormones which strengthen the uterus, help produce milk for nursing mothers and also prevent blood loss after childbirth. (The ripe fruit contains a substance that urges uterine spasms and increases contractions especially in the time of delivery. This substance resembles 'oxytocin' that is secreted by pituitary gland, which encourages contractions of the uterus. Dates contain some stimulants which strengthen the muscles of the uterus in the last months of pregnancy. This helps the dilation of the uterus at the time of delivery and reduces post-natal bleeding).
Ideal for breast-feeding mothers: Dieticians consider dates the best food for breast-feeding mothers. This is because dates contain elements that assist in alleviating depression and enrich the breast milk with the nutrients needed to make the child healthy and resistant to disease.

How Red Raspberry Leaf Helps the Pregnant Mother & Baby:

The increased vitamin A intake, in the form of carotenoids of RRL can aid the women’s immune system as well as facilitate healthy skin and bone development for the baby. The Vitamin E helps to promote better circulation in the mother whose blood volume dramatically increases during pregnancy. RRL contains an easily assimilated form of calcium. An increased availability of calcium is necessary in controlling nerve response to pain during childbirth and in aiding bone development in the baby. The presence of fragrine allows the uterus to contract more powerfully and effectively during labor. The high vitamin and mineral content helps to replace those that are lost via blood loss in delivery. The alkaloids that are present will also aid in toning the uterus after birth as it returns back to its usual size.

Other Pregnancy Related Benefits of Red Raspberry Leaf Tea:

-It increases fertility in both men and women (drink for a few months while trying to conceive).

-Prevents miscarriage and postpartum hemorrhage by helping to tone the uterus thus creating a relaxed (atonic) uterus.

-Eases morning sickness

-Reduces pain during labor and after birth: By toning the muscles used during labor and delivery RRL eliminates many of the reasons for a painful delivery and prolonged recovery. It does not, however, counter the pain of pelvic dilation.

-Assists in the production of plentiful breast milk

-Can help make labor faster: RRL works to encourage the uterus to let go and function without tension. It doesn’t strengthen contractions but it does allow the uterus to work more efficiently

-Studies show that women taking RRL have a reduced incidence of artificial rupture of membranes, forceps delivery or cesarean

All very interesting, right?

Until Next Time..................

God-Awful Face

2011-08-07T20:44:00.000-07:00

I'm 31 weeks pregnant, Chase is on the go and into everything 24/7, and Buzz is his usual self..... Mr. limit pusher!

Needless to say I haven't been my usual patient self.....I think it's a combination of my hubby not being home + hormones!

Colby has taken notice of the unpleasant change! Tonight he kept making this God-awful face........

Colby, I need you to quit making that face....it hurts my feelings!

I'm very upset with you.

Why? I'm serious, that isn't a nice face at all!

You make that face when you get very upset at my wrong choices.

Oh, geez louise! Do I really?

Yes, mam!

I'm so sorry! Does that face hurt your feelings?

Yes, it does!

Let's make a pinky promise......let's both stop making that mean face and only make sweet faces!

Okay....pinky promise!

I immediately thought of something I read this week (#99) ...........

If you have come to a point in a challenging situation with your child where you feel that the only thing left to do is to yell at or strike your child, step away from the child.

Here are 101 things you can do instead of yelling or spanking (or in my case making a God- awful face) :

Take a parental time-out.
Call for help from a friend or family member (ask them to give you an immediate break if possible).
Pile everyone in the car and drive to the park (or anywhere – just go for a change of scenery).
Sing a silly song about how angry you are.
Do jumping jacks.
Draw your feelings out.
Make yourself your favorite snack.
Write down 3 instances when you felt intense love for your child.
Clean out your clothes closet and set aside a bag for Goodwill (now would probably not be a good time to do this with the kids’ toys).
Change the subject – come back to it when you and your child are calmer.
Whisper.
Practice progressive relaxation.
Act like animals: stomp like an elephant, growl like a lion, etc.
Run around the house (or around the block if your children have alternate childcare).
Do a load of laundry.
Set out clothes for the kids for the next week (or do some other task that will pay off later).
Release tension: shake your shoulders, roll your neck, etc.
Count to 100. Out loud. In a robot voice.
Immerse yourself in an easy craft project.
Dust off the hedge clippers and trim your trees or other landscaping.
If your child allows it, give him a huge hug and tell him you love him.
Scream into a pillow.
Bake cookies (with help from your child), bring some to a neighbor or your local fire department.
Dance to your favorite song.
Instead of yelling at your kids to do something, act out your request in a game of charades or pictionary.
Pluck your eyebrows.
Clean out the refrigerator.
Bang your head – to some loud music.
Write down the angry words you could have said, then rip the paper up and throw it away.
Do some yoga.
Rearrange the furniture.
Make a list of the many reasons you love your child.
Wash the car by hand.
Laugh in as many different ways as you can think of (think Mary Poppins).
Take everyone and go sit in a car wash. Choose the option for colored soap.
Chocolate.
Call a friend who supports gentle discipline (think about finding a “gentle discipline partner” who you can talk to anytime you feel the urge to yell or spank).
Fall down theatrically on the floor. Lie there long enough to collect yourself.
Pay bills.
Keep a roll of tape handy – use it on your mouth.
Squeeze a stress ball.
Recite multiplication tables.
Stand as silent and still as possible.
Paint your nails.
Do 25 sit-ups.
Finish a task you’ve been putting off.
Listen to an audio book.
Take a bubble bath.
Ask a silly question. Ask another.
Take a walk around your neighborhood or a park and clean up the trash.
Run up and down the stairs.
Paint on different mediums (paper, rocks, your windows, etc.).
Write a story using only 100 words.
Cook a meal for the freezer.
Look at pictures of your child when she was a baby.
Play Solitaire (or whatever game strikes your fancy).
Brew some of your favorite tea or coffee. Have a tea party.
Sweep, vacuum, or mop.
Learn something new online.
Play with Playdough or clay.
Put a movie on for the kids; have sex with your partner.
Take a shower.
Organize meal plans for the next week. Or month. Or year.
Set up an obstacle course for you and your kids to do (inside or out).
Instead of shouting something angrily, shout “I love you!!”
Make up a rhyme about how much you love your child. Recite it while standing on your head.
Play ball (basketball, throw a tennis ball against a wall, play catch with someone, etc.).
Take artsy pictures.
Make a PostSecret postcard.
Pull weeds.
Decoupage something.
Blow bubbles.
Make a list of “things I would rather do than engage in power struggles with my child.”
Trade roles with your child: pretend you are the little, and she is the adult.
Reorganize a closet or cabinet.
Roll around on an exercise ball.
Make bread or pizza dough (the kind you have to knead).
Form a drum circle: everyone grab a drum or a pot, and start playing.
Build a tower out of books (or anything handy). Knock it down.
Gather the kids for a nature walk around the block.
Have a few funny videos saved on YouTube to watch when you need a break.
Take silly pictures of yourself. Invite your child to help.
Ask your Facebook or Twitter friends to tell you a joke.
Scrub the shower.
Write a poem (it doesn’t have to be a good one).
Send postcards to random people.
Make a silly (and unrelated) announcement. (“For the rest of the day, everyone must hop on one foot when moving about the house!”)
Make funny faces. Tell your child that no matter what, they must not laugh.
Turn on a videocamera. Turn the opportunity into one of love and connection that you can be proud of later.
Play an instrument.
Take the family to a park with sidewalk chalk: write/draw inspirational messages/pictures.
Learn how to say a few words in another language (ASL, Spanish, etc.).
Floss.
Jump rope.
Do something nice for someone else. (Involve your child if he wants to help.)
Write your feelings down on paper.
Meditate or pray.
Hug your child’s teddy bear or doll and talk about how much you love your child (while your child is watching, if you’d like).
Look into a mirror and realize what your child is seeing when you are angry.
Remember your child is young, and innocent, and loves you, and needs to trust you.
Take a minute to calm down and breastfeed your child. (It’s hard to be angry at a child who is nursing, plus the act of breastfeeding releases hormones that will help calm both of you down.)

The bottom line is to not scream at or hit your child (or make a God-awful face). It’s ok to step away from the situation or to defuse a fight by using laughter or love instead of instantly turning to discipline or punishment. If you are trying to “teach” your child something, she will not learn when you are approaching her with anger – whether it is in your voice or in your hand. All she will feel is fear.

Talk about it when both you and your child are calm. Chances are, you will both feel better about the outcome.

It's hard to look at sometimes, but our children will reflect to us a change we need to make!

“While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.”

Until Next Time.........

Birthing Power

2011-08-07T08:41:00.000-07:00

Our last attachment parenting meeting was all about birth preparation. We discussed the Business of Being Born.......

I recommend watching the entire documentary......it's extremely enlightening!

We also discussed birthing choices and knowing your options. It was inspiring to hear such positive birth stories and insights. If you plan on having a natural birth, I encourage you to surround yourself with positive support......it makes a huge difference!

Everyone also agreed Ina May's guide to childbirth is a must read........

All the moms at the meeting experienced all different types of births:

Home Births

VBACS

Natural Birth in a hospital

C-section

Medicated Birth

The most important thing is to have a birth plan but to remember things don't always go as planned! There isn't the right birth choice it's only the right birth choice for you!

As women we should all support each other's birth choices and only offer positive encouragement!

We ended the meeting with 7 tips for better birth bonding- Here!

It was a great meeting!!

Until Next Time........

Attachment Parenting Meeting- Preparing for Birth

2011-07-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

Don't miss our next AP meeting:
Thursday August 4
10:00am
Ridgeland Library

Topic: Preparing for Birth

We will be discussing many aspects of birth preparation, it's a perfect meeting for expecting mommies!!

One very important topic we will cover is birth bonding......I hope you can join us!!

Birth Bonding- What does it mean?

Bonding—the term for the close emotional tie that develops between parents and baby at birth—was the buzzword of the 1980's. Dr's. Marshall H. Klaus and John H. Kennell explored the concept of bonding in their classic book Maternal- Infant Bonding. These researchers speculated that for humans, just as for other types of animals, there is a "sensitive period" at birth when mothers and newborns are uniquely programmed to be in contact with each other and do good things to each other. By comparing mother-infant pairs who bonded immediately after birth with those who didn't, they concluded that the early-contact mother- infant pairs later developed a closer attachment.

Bonding is really a continuation of the relationship that began during pregnancy. The physical and chemical changes that were occurring in your body reminded you of the presence of this person. Birth cements this bond and gives it reality. Now you can see, feel, and talk to the little person whom you knew only as the "bulge" or from the movements and the heartbeat you heard through medical instruments. Bonding allows you to transfer your life-giving love for the infant inside to caregiving love on the outside. Inside, you gave your blood; outside, you give your milk, eyes, hands, and voice—your entire self.

By having a positive, ideally natural, birth experience you are creating an environment for birth bonding.

~Dr. Sears

7 Tips to Better Bonding

1. Delay routine procedures. Oftentimes the attending nurse does routine procedures—giving the vitamin K shot and putting eye ointment in baby's eyes—immediately after birth and then presents baby to mother for bonding ask the nurse to delay these procedures for an hour or so, allowing the family to enjoy this initial bonding period. The eye ointment temporarily blurs baby's vision or causes her eyes to stay closed. She needs a clear first impression of you, and you need to see those eyes.

2. Stay connected. Ask your birth attendant and nurses to put baby on your abdomen and chest immediately after birth, or after cutting the cord and suctioning your baby, unless a medical complication requires temporary separation.

3. Let your baby breastfeed right after birth. Most babies are content simply to lick the nipple; other have a strong desire to suck at the breast immediately after birth. This nipple stimulation releases the hormone oxytocin, which increases the contractions of your uterus and lessens postpartum bleeding . Early sucking also stimulates the release of prolactin, the hormone that helps your mothering abilities click in right from the start.

4. Room in with your baby. Of course, bonding does not end at the delivery bed—it is just the beginning! Making visual, tactile, olfactory, auditory, and sucking connection with your baby right after birth may make you feel that you don't want to release this little person that you've labored so hard to bring into the world, into the nursery—and you don't have to. Your wombmate can now become your roommate. We advise healthy mothers and healthy babies to remain together throughout their hospital stay.

Who cares for your baby after delivery depends upon your health, your baby's health, and your feelings. Some babies make a stable transition from the womb to the outside world without any complications; others need a few hours in the nursery for extra warmth, oxygen, suctioning, and other special attention until their vital systems stabilize.

Feelings after birth are as individual as feelings after lovemaking. Many mothers show the immediate glow of motherhood and the "birth high" excitement of a race finished and won. It's love at first sight, and they can't wait to get their hands on their baby and begin mothering within a millisecond after birth.

Others are relieved that the mammoth task of birth is over and that baby is normal. Now they are more interested in sleeping and recovering than bonding and mothering. As one mother said following a lengthy and arduous labor, "Let me sleep for a few hours, take a shower, comb my hair, and then I'll start mothering." If these are your feelings, enjoy your rest—you've earned it. There is no need to succumb to pressure bonding when neither your body nor mind is willing or able. In this case, father can bond with baby while mother rests. The important thing is somebody is bonding during this sensitive period of one to two hours of quiet alertness after birth. One of the saddest sights we see is a newly-born, one-hour-old baby parked all alone in the nursery, busily bonding (with wide-open, hungry eyes) with plastic sides of her bassinet. Give your baby a significant presence—mother, father, or even grandma in a pinch. (See )

5. Touch your baby. Besides enjoying the stimulation your baby receives from the skin-to-skin contact of tummy-to-tummy and cheek-to-breast, gently stroke your baby, caressing his whole body. We have noticed that mothers and fathers often caress their babies differently. A new mother usually strokes her baby's entire body with a gentle caress of her fingertips; the father, however, often places an entire hand on his baby's head, as if symbolizing his commitment to protect the life he has fathered. Besides being enjoyable, stroking the skin is medically beneficial to the newborn. The skin, the largest organ in the human body, is very rich with nerve endings. At the time when baby is making the transition to air breathing, and the initial breathing patterns are very irregular, stroking stimulates the newborn to breathe more rhythmically—the therapeutic value of a parent's touch.

6. Gaze at your newborn. Your newborn can see you best with an eye- to-eye distance of eight to ten inches (twenty to twenty-five centimeters)— amazingly, about the usual nipple-to-eye distance during breastfeeding. Place your baby in the face-to-face position, adjusting your head and your baby's head in the same position so that your eyes meet. Enjoy this visual connection during the brief period of quiet alertness after birth, before baby falls into a deep sleep. Staring into your baby's eyes may trigger a rush of beautiful mothering feelings.

Talk to your newborn. During the first hours and days after birth, a natural baby-talk dialogue will develop between mother and infant. Voice- analysis studies have shown a unique rhythm and comforting cadence to mother's voice.

What would you tell yourself?

2011-07-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

I really love this video!!

The creators asked families to imagine the point right before they decided to breastfeed, and asked what they would tell themselves.

I would have told myself:

The first weeks can be very difficult but after that it's everything you imagined!

It's so much easier than having to worry about bottles and formula everywhere you go!

It's magical.....it's stop crying 99.9 % of the time!

It's the cure for bad days, sick days, and even boo boos!

It will even make you a happier mommy.....it has a soothing affect that I believe is sent straight from heaven!

It will get your baby to sleep in no time!

You will experience an amazing bond and be so proud that only you can give this to your little angel!

You will make fewer visits to the doctor!

The content gaze in your baby's eyes while he reaches up to touch your face are the moments you will never forget!

You will forget about modesty and put your baby's needs above other people's opinions!

You will be proud of your decision for so many reasons!!

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOURSELF RIGHT BEFORE YOU DECIDED TO BREASTFEED?

Summer 2011

2011-07-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe summer is almost over, but we sure made a lot of FUN memories!!

My favorite pics of Summer 2011!!

Florida- Chase's First Beach Trip

Oklahoma City Zoo

Mr. & Mrs. Turtle making babies :)!!

Oklahoma City Science Museum

4th of July

Castaway Cove- Wichita Falls

Altus Reservoir

Getting Excited About Josie!!

Playing in the Rain!!

Getting Crazy at Splash Pad!

Chase's Cheese Face ;)

What a fantastic Summer, but bring on the Fall......I'm ready for baby girl to make us a family of five!!

Until Next Time........

Poop Happens

2011-07-12T09:59:00.000-07:00

Wow...yesterday was one poopy day!!

We dropped Chris off at work and then the boys and I took a stroll around the rez and then hit up the park! After playing for a whopping five minutes, Colby needed to take a poop.

Of course....no potty!

We loaded up and headed back to the apartment....thank the Lord, it's only a 5 minute drive.

Colby leaped out of the van and made a v-line for the potty. He was in there for a good 10 minutes and then came out and started playing with his trains, and it hit me....there was no toilet paper in that bathroom.

Colby, did you wipe your booty?

Sure I did!

With what, there isn't any toilet paper.

I know, I used a rag.

What? Where is the rag?

I flushed it down the potty...it had a lot of nasty poopoo on it.

Oh Dear! Did it go down?

The water came up high.

Baby, you can not flush a rag down the potty....it breaks the potty.

Okay!

BTW....the potty is definitely broken and the 3 month lease specifically states....

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIR COST TO THE TOILET IF CHILDREN FLUSH ANY OBJECTS.

Great! Not sure we will be getting our deposit back.......not to mention the broke closet door and the torn up blinds.

If that wasn't enough....the poop just kept coming!

Since the boys didn't get to play much, we returned to another park after Chase took a nappy nap.

I KID YOU NOT! We were there for 5 minutes and Colby said, "Mommy, I have to poopoo really bad!"

We were at a park that does have a potty but it's all the way across the parking lot.....what in the world are these park designers thinking???

Mommy, it's about to come out!

I'm going to stay here with Chase, you run to the potty and I will watch you.....yell loud if you need me!

Okay.

He actually walked all the way to the potty while holding his hand over his booty.....I guess he thought he could hold it in!

About 10 minutes later, I saw Colby walking back to the park with his pants down to his ankles.

Son, what in the world are you doing? Pull your pants up now!

I can't

Yes, you can! Pull them up now!

It came out too fast....I'm so sorry!

It's okay baby....everyone has accidents.

No, it's not okay.....it's not suppose to come out that fast.

It happens...we will clean you up and we can stay and play!

I had an extra pair of underwear in the car and I used every wipe I had.....it was a pretty big mess!

We got it done and he was ready to play.

I sat down to rest and Chase climbed into my lap and what do you know........I smell poop!!

NOOOOOOOOOO!!!

I used every wipe to clean up Mr. grown man poop....now what?

I had to use armor all wipes on my baby's booty.....just awful. I figured it was better than sitting in poop!

Isn't it funny how it doesn't just rain.....it pours. It was all rather comical!

I wanted to scream WHAT THE POOP IS GOING ON!!!

Until Next Time...............

My Birthing Journey Continues....

2011-07-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

I had to have my glucose test done by a doctor in Altus. It wasn't quite what I was expecting....... it ended up being a therapy session.
I was immediately fond of him and felt like I was talking to a close friend. He actually apologized and said, "sorry I'm talking like I've know you forever." (crazy thing....he actually practiced in MS for 4 years)

He wanted to know where I was going to give birth and my response was....I'm still undecided, but probably at home.

Really, can we talk about it?

I would love to!

This was perfect, insights from a genuine doctor that would not be bias at all...after all he wasn't trying to convince me to deliver at his hospital since I'm leaving next week.

Our conversation went a little something like this....

Why home birth?

Natural is definitely the very best for me and the baby because...

No no...I know natural is the best, but why natural at home?

Oh...we could be here all day. Mainly because I don't believe birth should be treated like a life threatening emergency, it's a natural process that women have been doing since the beginning of time without unnecessary interventions which usually leads to some sort of problems.

I already tried to have a natural birth in the hospital and I know many women do it, but I don't guess I'm cut out for it. I could not even begin to get in a comfortable laboring position with all the contraptions all over my body!

I want to be comfortable so I can labor properly and my baby can have a gentle birth, not a traumatic birth and then separated from me.....with my last child, I had to pay $300 to keep him in my room. Hospitals have some bizarre procedures and they often have to do what's convenient for them and not what's best for the mom and baby.

Well then! I have to admit that midwives are better at making labor easier than hospitals, and we should only be there for emergencies but it's not the way things are....unfortunately. But, If it wasn't for OBs and technology many babies would die.

Oh, don't get me wrong...I'm very thankful for OBs, but I agree they should be used for emergencies not normal, healthy deliveries.

Do you want my opinion?

Of course!

If I had to pick an ideal home birth candidate.....you are definitely it.

You are healthy,

No pregnancy risk, such as high blood pressure or gestational diabetes,

You have had two vaginal births with no complications,

and you seem to know your stuff.

But let me ask you one question. If something went wrong would you want to sue your midwife?

Absolutely not, home birth is my choice.

Plus, I feel confident in my midwife. She has an emergency transport plan and her transport rate is extremely low....not to mention, I'm only 15 miles from the hospital.

That's close enough for most emergencies.

What emergency is your biggest concern...Shoulder Dystocia?

Definitely, sometimes you only have minutes!

Isn't it true that shoulder dystocia only happens in less than 1% of all births?

Yes.....I'm not trying to scare you, but you could be that one percent....then what?

Is it true that 95% of all women have a birth with NO complications?

Yes....but that still leaves a chance that you will have a medical emergency.

I would rather you deliver at a birthing center. It gives you everything you want plus immediate emergency care....just in case.

That would be great, but the closest one is over 3 hours away......delivering in the car would be more dangerous.

People do home birth everyday, but if you are in the small percentage and something goes terribly wrong, WILL YOU HAVE REGRETS?

I will consider all your advice....thank you so much!

WILL I HAVE REGRETS???

Of course. If something went wrong I would have regrets and play the what if game, but I would do the same thing if something went wrong in the hospital....wouldn't every mother???

Knowing everything I know at this point, I realize I took risk with my first two deliveries .....

Induction could have ruptured my uterus, increased postpartum blood loss, and doubled my chance of having a cesarean.

The longer intense contractions from pitocin could have interfered with the flow of oxygen-rich blood through the placenta to the fetus.

Having my water broke could have caused the umbilical cord to fall out of the cervix below the baby's head, which can be life-threatening.

The epidural increased my chance of a forceps/ vacuum delivery, possibly caused a dramatic drop in blood pressure, given my baby breathing difficulties, and in a very rare case (one in five thousand) result in a maternal death or paralysis.

It seems to me there are risks with any birthing choice, so why not choose the one that I'm most comfortable with....the one that is led by my heart.

I know home birth is not for everyone, and I'm not saying that a hospital birth is the wrong choice......I just think it's the wrong choice for me.

When I daydream about the day Josie is born, I don't picture this

but quite the contrary.....

I dream of a gentle birth and precious bonding!

Until Next Time...........

Walk the Walk

2011-07-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel overwhelmed when you think about the important role you play as a parent? I know I sure do! I know I could preach until I'm blue in the face, but what good does that serve?

I know my children will do as they see, no matter what I say!

I pray for God to give me the wisdom to teach my children the way to live as Christ, but also to know when I need to make a change!!

We go to the park at least 3-4 times a week and every time we arrive it's literally a landfill! It looks like a bomb went off.....no one knows the use of a garbage can! Drinks are everywhere, which Chase feels the need to taste test each one...GRODY ODY!! McDonald bags cover the benches and there is enough soda cans to attach to every newlywed car in town.....not the ideal picnic for kiddos but whatever!

I found myself complaining every morning while I cleaned up the park and then I noticed Colby doing the same...IT HIT ME LIKE A TON OF BRICKS! Not only was I not living out my faith.....

Do everything without complaining or arguing. Philippians 2:14

But I was failing at guiding my son down the right path!

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6

God gave me the wisdom to know I was in the wrong! Instead of teaching my children to complain about the mess, I could use the situation as a life lesson!

I turned my frown upside down and had a little pow-wow with my boys! I explained that nothing good ever comes from complaining and that's why God tells us to steer clear of the ugly habit. Then, we discussed how we could be good citizens and clean up the mess with a joyful heart.

I also informed them that some people are just wrong by accident since no one has taught them the right thing to do, but since we know we should take care of the place God gave us to live....it's our responsibility to clean up nasty litter!

It worked like a charm and now Colby goes out of his way to pick up litter and does it with a happy heart!!

I guess it pays to walk the walk if I'm going to talk the talk!

My Birthing Journey

2011-07-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

Baby girl will be joining our family in about 3 months so there will be lots of birth talk going on at the Jones Journey!! If you aren't really into birthing chit chat you might want to take a little break from my blog and pick back up sometime in October when the madness kicks off of raising 3 bambinos under the age of three .....wowzers!!

Where do I begin?

I have been on a journey the last few months, trying to figure out what I want when it comes to bringing my precious baby girl into this world!

When Colby was born I was CLUELESS, to say the least! I'm ashamed to say, but I just did what everyone else seemed to be doing, and I trusted every single thing I heard.

I was STUPID!

I knew that natural birth was the very best for the baby and me, and I honestly thought I could just beep bop into the hospital and breath my way through labor and have this amazing experience of natural childbirth.....STUPID!

I didn't prepare AT ALL.....STUPID!

My doctor was going out of town and since it was a few days before Christmas, he encouraged me to be induced. I figured why not.....STUPID! I wasn't dilated at all, which means Colby wasn't ready yet...why was I in such a hurry? I went along with it and had no idea that pitocin practically makes a natural childbirth impossible.....I told you I didn't prepare at all!

Once the pitocin was started, the contractions were unbearable! Needless to say I got an epidural at 4 cm. I progressed somewhat slow (effects of an epidural and laying on your back during labor) and at 4:00 my doctor suggested c-section talk if little squirt didn't get the show on the road.....thank goodness Colby graced us with his presence at 4:29!!!

Colby came out drugged and was too lethargic to breastfeed and then they swept him away from my arms and into transitional care for 3 hours what just happens to be crucial birth bonding time. Three hours away from the only familiar thing he had known for 9 months and the only person who could comfort him and make him feel safe in this new world....makes me so sad!

I had breastfeeding difficulties for weeks, and it was all due to unnecessary interventions.

Although it was an unforgettable, exuberant moment when Colby was born, it wasn't the birthing experience I desired. I always felt like God meant for it to be so much more! I honestly feel in my heart that God created labor for a very special purpose, and somehow we have messed it up!

Round two....I started preparing from day one! I wanted a natural birth and at this point I felt confident and prepared to conquer!!

I was not going to be induced, I wanted God to choose my baby's birthday, no one else! My water started leaking through the night and I had a small gush of water at 9:00am, but it never completely broke. I stayed home to labor so I could avoid hospital interventions, such as an IV, constant fetal monitoring, pitocin, etc.

Around 2:00 the contractions still weren't very intense and my bag of waters still had not broke. My doctor was concerned of getting an infection and advised me to come to the hospital. I was progressing extremely slow and the fear of Chase getting an infection caused me to relinquish to the doctor and start potocin. I still wanted to give natural birth a shot but the circumstances made me cave at 8cm....right when transition was beginning. You can read the entire birth story here.

Again, the moment Chase was placed on my chest was incredible, and I accepted that my birth plan did not go as I intended, but I focused my whole heart and soul on the God given gift that stared right at my face and melted me on the spot!

Round three....here we go!

Yes, my plan is a natural birth! I'm even more prepared this go round and I think this might be it!! This is my last pregnancy, and definitely something I passionately desire to experience and give to my baby!

Call me a hippie but I want Josie born drug free, in a

LOVING

CALMING

PEACEFUL

environment!

Especially, since it doesn't just determine a good or bad day on her birthday....it actually effects her entire life!

This story tells exactly why........What natural childbirth means to your baby. (I love how beautifully it describes the difference in a home birth and a hospital birth!)

The hard part has been trying to decide the best way to accomplish my goal.

Hospitals make it almost impossible.....
(Everyone should watch business of being born....here are a few clips)

so I started searching out more birthing options!

Baton Rouge has a birthing center that would be ideal but it's a little over 3 hours away.....still an option!

Home birth is also an option, it's actually my most favorable at the moment! I have spoke with several mommies who have had a home birth and just listening to their experience gives me chills and inspires me.......it's exactly what I want!

My friend Madeline has a beautiful home birth story and I have an appointment to meet with her midwife. I already fell in love with her on the phone and I can't wait to meet her! I love the fact that she loves the Lord and believes that natural birth is a gift from God. When I was talking with her, I felt like she was an answered prayer!

We shall see where this journey takes our family!

Until Next Time...........

From Duckies to Indians

2011-06-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

Altus is definitely a little one horse town with not much excitement, but one thing about this little town we love is the Reservoir, which is only a jump, hop & a skip away from our apartment!

Chase was quite skittish of the ducks at first, but he quickly warmed up to our furry friends!

Look.....a swing full of pure sweetness!!

The duckies are fun to feed, but they also like to donate to our crafting!

Where there are ducks, there are also feathers!

We painted and created......

and transformed ourselves into Indians!

BTW.....these Indians are hitting the trail and headed back to Mississippi on July 15!!

Until Next Time........

I Forgive You

2011-06-24T18:26:00.000-07:00

I'm checking out at the store today and catch a glimpse of Colby devouring some M&Ms........stealing is one thing that I will never tolerate, and I knew at that moment he had to learn a life lesson and learn it quick!!

Colby Michael Jones, what on Earth do you think you are doing?

Mommy, M&Ms are so good (as he opens his mouth wide to show me the evidence).

You just stole those M&Ms, and you know that stealing is never okay! Do those belong to you?

No mam.

Did you ask Mommy to buy those?

No mam.

Then you stole them!

I will pay for them, Mommy!

With what, you don't have any money!

I'm so super sorry, I won't ever do that again.

You go tell the cashier what you did right now and apologize.

Okay, (teary eyed and voice shaking) I'm so sorry, that was not a good idea.

Now, Daddy has to pay for those.

Can I have them now?

You absolutely may not and you will work to pay Daddy back....We didn't steal, you did.

I said I was so sorry.

I know, you don't have to say sorry anymore. Once you ask forgiveness, I forgive.....just like God forgives me the first time I ask.

Okay, I'm so sorry mom and I forgive you too!

Forgive me?? I didn't steal...you did!

We got home (we are staying in an upstairs apartment) and his job was to unload the groceries to pay for his M&Ms that he stole. He literally unloaded 2 bags and it took him the same amount of time that it took Chris to unload the other twenty.

I almost felt sorry for the little guy.....not really! This was one life lesson I was determined to teach him the first go round!

He was holding onto the rail and after one leg conquered a step, he would pull with all his strength to drag the two bags up to the next step. It took him a good 15 minutes to reach the top and he released the bags right at the front door as he let out a sigh of exhaustion!

Son, Daddy works to buy things....he doesn't steal. You just had to work for those M&Ms, stealing is never okay!

I'm tired Mommy! Can I have those M&Ms now?

You will NEVER get those M&Ms baby! You were working to pay Daddy back, not to eat the M&Ms you stole!

I'm so sorry! I will never never ever ever steal again!

Good! God says Thou Shall Not Steal!

I know! I'm Sorry! I love you and forgive you, Mommy!

Colby, I think you are confused, my dear. You forgive someone when they ask for forgiveness after doing something wrong. I didn't steal anything.....you did!

He hugged my neck...... It's okay Mommy, you only have to ask one time, I FORGIVE YOU!

Lord help me.....COLBY, JUST DON'T EVER STEAL AGAIN!

I pinky promise!

What am I going to do with this little squirt????

Until Next Time..............

VBS = Separation Anxiety

2011-06-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Colby man is Mr. Independent!

I can do this all by myself!

I don't need help, I'm super strong!

I can do this.....see how big my muscles are, Mommy!

That is until, he has to separate from his mommy!

I'm a SAHM so I'm all he knows! I also have never forced separation, I want it to be on his time.....not when I desperately want him to be ready! Which means he has never gone in the church nursery (I could never leave him while he was having a panic attack...tried on many occasions), he has never stayed with anyone but grandparents, and Mother's Morning Out lasted for a whole THREE weeks.....longer than I ever expected!

Now, that he is three and a very independent, little squirt, I thought he would be ready for Vacation Bible School....or at least I was praying he was ready!

First day, he was so enthusiastic and kept repeating, "I can't wait!"

I walked him in and he shouted, "okay, Mommy you can go, bye bye" and then sat beside a friend and said, "hey, my name is Colby, what's your name?"

I literally teared up and almost lost it, not because I'm a big ole baby, but because of preggo hormones, or at least that's the culprit I chose to target! If you know me well, then you know I'm bluffing.....I'm a big old baby when it comes to my babies!

I was extremely eager to pick him up and see how his big day went! He was thrilled to tell me about all the playing, painting, dancing, etc.!!!

I was one giddy mom...so proud of my little man!

DAY 2

He walked in with confidence ready to take on the tile painting and booty shaking!!

Pick-up time rolled around, and his face wasn't beaming like the previous day. With a fowl expression he mumbled....

You took way too long today, where have you been (I had a flashback from my teenage years)?

I went home and let Chase take a nap, you knew we were coming back at lunch!

I'm not happy with your choices (he repeats to me everything I say to him, like I'm the child...geez).

I'm sorry

I missed you too much and I love you, you not suppose to do that to me (knife in the heart).

Baby, it's a lot more fun to play with friends and do fun stuff than sit at the house while Chase is napping!

I'm very upset right now

I'm sorry, I love you!

Day 2

We gave it another go!

It was time to drop him off and he was compliant, but didn't let me leave without strict instructions.

Mommy, I'm going to go today but don't take so long and if I get sad and miss you, you need to come back!

Yes, Sir!

Pick up time:

Did you have a great day?

NOT AT ALL! I love Jesus but I'm not coming back tomorrow....you took too long again!

Baby, it's the same time everyday!

Well, I cried....I miss you!

It's okay to miss me, I missed you too, but I promise I will always come back and I love you very much!! I thought you would love to play with friends!

I do, but I want you to stay and play too! (same problem again...he wanted me to be the MMO teacher).

Reluctantly, he finished out the week with no tears. It didn't go easy breezy but it's baby steps for my little guy!

On the last day he took his teacher a cute, little happy, even though I had to convince him to hand over the reese's pieces.....soooo embarrassing!

You are O'fish' ally Awesome and I love you to pieces.....a little corny but it's the thought that counts, right?

Until Next Time..........

Handling Criticism

2011-06-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Babies can’t be spoiled… only nurtured!

Babies, like food, only get spoiled if they are left

unattended on a shelf.

I love this quote! It's definitely a fav of mine and might even make my top 10 list. I spotted this fantastic quote when I read this article today, and it really hit home for me. learning more and more about attachment parenting has really taught me that Colby isn't necessarily a strong-willed child, rather he is a high need child. Raising a high need child can be challenging but I still focus on the parent I desire to be, despite negative criticism.....such as, tear his booty up!

If you have a high need child, you will appreciate Dr. Sears's great advice on handling criticism!

Handling Criticism

Dr. Sears

Having a high-need child can make you a ready target for critics. The hardest thing is having others think that by trying to meet your child’s needs you have created them, and by being sensitive to them, you’re making them worse. To protect yourself and your child from unwanted and unhelpful advice, try these suggestions taken from The Fussy Baby Book.

Keep your complaints private. Going public with your complaints exposes you to critics. Choose carefully to whom you gripe. Don’t ask questions you don’t want answered. It’s best to share with like-minded friends and parents who share your parenting philosophy, preferably ones who are also parenting a high-need child.

Protect yourself. If your critics conclude you are withering away, they will feel compelled to water you with advice. They may assume that your baby is a burden to you and what you really need is a break from your baby. Set the record straight: “Actually, I love having my baby with me all the time.” In effect, you are conveying, “I’m okay, I don’t need your help with the baby, thank you.” Of course, if there are other kinds of help you need- with the dishes, laundry- now may be a good time to ask. When critics suggest that your parenting style is spoiling your baby, tell them, “Babies can’t be spoiled… only nurtured” or “Babies, like food, only get spoiled if they are left unattended on a shelf. “

Shield your child. It’s easy for your child’s self-image to be effected by comments from friends and relatives. Don’t let negative vibrations rub off on your child. If you’re invited to a home where you know critics are going to give your child a “Why aren’t you like the other children?” message, don’t go. Don’t discuss your child’s challenges within his hearing.

Be positive. Friends and family will pick up on how you assess your own child. If you are negative, complaining, and seem overwhelmed by your high-needs child, expect friends to react the same way. But, if you seem excited and proud to have this energetic child, they will be impressed with her positive qualities rather than regarding her as your “problem child.” If a critic pronounces, “My, she is obstinate,” come back with “Yes, she is very persistent.” When the critic says, “He’s so boisterous,” come back with “He has a lot of enthusiasm.”

Consider where the source got her parenting info. Your mother really does have your best interests and those of her grandchild at heart, but she raised you in an era when scheduling, bottle-feeding, cribs, playpens, spanking, and fear of spoiling were standard. Naturally, her views on child rearing will differ from yours. Accept this. Nothing divides friends and relatives like differences of opinion on raising kids. Pick out those childcare practices that you and your mother agree on, and keep the conversation centered on those; for the rest, simply agree to disagree.

Sell This House

2011-06-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

We decided back in October that we would like to sell our house for several reasons. One, we want to move back to the reservoir area....we really miss it. It's just so much more convenient for our family! Second, we bought this house before three kiddos came along and before I knew this Momma wasn't going back to work anytime soon. It's just waaaaaaay more important for me to stay home with my kiddos than pay a high mortgage when I really could careless what we live in! It doesn't take much to satisfy me.....my family and my life in Christ makes me one content cookie!! I can always buy a house later but my babies will only be babies once....even then I still don't know if I will desire to upgrade. There are just more important things in my life!

We weren't in a hurry to sell so we tried to sell it ourselves for eight months to no avail! I still didn't want to list it with an agent, but we decided that since we were going to be out of the house for the summer, it was a no brainier! I could clean one time and be done........keeping a house perfect with two boys is just a nightmare!

Our agent came over and gave us the low down along with a to-do list before we headed out of town.

1. Convert dining room into a dining room.....apparently no one else prefers a playroom over a place to eat!

Before....

After....

I love the shade of blue.....much more appealing than the awful red!

There is a lovely reading area off the master suite, but it had become the I don't know where to put this so I will put it there area......it needed de-cluttering in a bad way!

We replaced all the junk with two swivel chairs and rug to make it cozy.

Last on our list was to make the entrance look inviting!

Chris stained the door and I added a little color and happiness....who doesn't love flowers??

I added a wreath for the final touch that hopefully shouts....

you love me, buy me today!!!

Thank goodness I remembered my bestie, ~~Martha Stewart~~ Kim posted a do-it- yourself, so I was able to make this bow.....I'm all about free!

Last but not least, I cleaned cleaned cleaned and then got these two little, messy stinkers out of dodge!!

Hopefully our hard work will pay off and we can SELL THIS HOUSE!

More Info here!!

Brownie Goose & Molly Blossom Give Away....Hurry Up!!

2011-06-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

I just happen to know two extremely talented women I must tell you all about!

Amy Norris

Amy is a super mom of these two adorable cuties......

and still manages to run her own business, Brownie Goose!

Brownie Goose produces fun, funky children's clothing that everyone tries to get their paws on! Brownie Goose is a one woman show that puts her family above all else, which is why customers count their lucky stars when they get the chance to purchase a BG thread!

(Amy also blogs, if you ever need a good laugh!)

Sara Upshaw is raising two beautiful girls......

and also managing her own business, Molly Blossom.

Molly Blossom offers stylish, unique bags and dazzling accessories as well!

(You can follow Sara's blog for great sewing tips!)

Amy and Sara both are extremely talented and have mad skills at the sewing machine! They have decided to team up and spread the love with others....yikes!!

Amy created an original pattern of the Milly Dress.....

and Sara will guide you step-by-step in creating your very own Milly dress in her newly offered sew along class!!

Have you been wanting to make your little girl beautiful, boutique style clothing but aren't the type that can sit down and breeze through a pattern? Do you have a sewing machine that needs dusting off and a yearning to make beautiful things? BG Originals and Molly Blossom have the perfect solution. Join the duo on June 18 at 3:30 pm with fabric and your machine and leave with a beautiful Milly Dress using Amy Norris' beautiful dress pattern.

Don't miss this opportunity to get the pattern at a discount and have a personal guide to ensure your success. There are only six slots available for the special rate of $27 per person. I will take you from beginning to end of this lovely, layered beauty and you'll have a dress and the pattern to take home with you to use again and again with endless combinations.

Message Sara for more information!

These two inspiring moms offer a little insight to their success!

What inspired you to start your business?

Amy- I quit my 'day job' as a peds nurse to stay at home with louisa since daycare was not working out well for anyone. I had always sewn, and took the advice of a few friends to try my hand at selling some of my work to make some extra pocket money. I soon realized that BG helped to fuel the fire behind my fabric addiction, and the rest was history.

Is there a special story behind your business name?

Amy-My business is named after my two Labradors. I have a chocolate lab, named mallard, that is my side-kick and we call him Brownie. Lucy is my sweet, calm-natured black lab that we call Goosie. I love my dogs like I love my children, and I am still working on training them to help me in the sewing room when things get hairy.

Sara- Molly Blossom is the name I gave one of my daughter's favorite plush toys. It has red eyes and I had to come up with something that would make my husband stop calling it a demon toy.

How do you manage being a stay-home mom and a business owner?

Amy- I honestly think this is the hardest part of it all. I have
struggled every season trying to figure out how to scale the numbers back for BG to allow more time for family. before the arrival of Nash, baby #2 - it was easy for me to sew while lou was at mother's morning out, during nap time and keeping night-owl hours. But once Nash came along...BG production has come almost to a screeching halt while i am trying to figure out how to swing being a mom to 2 and a small business-owner. after my first year, I realized that no matter what, family came first - and thankfully I have the support of some amazing customers that understand I am a Mom first and their seamstress next. To tell the truth, I still have YET to find the perfect balance and BG will be 3 this fall!

Sara-Fortunately for me, I can afford to not be totally devoted to my business. In fact. one of my requirements for myself when I started is that if it ever interfered with mothering or I was no longer having fun, I would scale back or stop altogether. Mainly, I make it work by only having a few things in my shop at a time, sewing at nap time and in between my girls' bedtime and mine.

Describe the way you feel after you have completed one of your stunning creations, especially when everyone wants it?

Amy- For a seamstress, 'tis no better feeling than to finish a project. but then for everyone to love it like I do - well, that feeling is amazing. extremely humbling and rewarding each and every time. I still get a rush every time that one of my creations becomes a hit. it is like your kid's laughter, such a great feeling!

Sara-I still feel pretty stunned when I get big compliments or special order requests for a particular bag.

How did the idea of working together come about?

Sara-We've become somewhat of sewing buds through our mutual admiration of each others' work and I offered to be a tester for her Milly Dress pattern. Knowing it was going to sell like hotcakes, I thought it would be fun to offer an opportunity for ladies to have some help working through it since it's not a pattern for an absolute novice.

What are your words of wisdom to someone just starting out and trying to learn how to sew ?

Amy- I always, always, always say you cannot sew without a good iron, sounds silly - I know, but trust me! Also, patience. it doesn't necessarily click overnight, but don't give up. when frustration hits (and it does this to me too) take a breather and walk away. I have 2 motto's. the first is "a clean sewing room is an inefficient sewing room." Sometimes when all your things are strewn from one end to the other, it is easier to work, at least that is my excuse, and the second, "rip and sip." When it comes time to rip seams if something is done wrong, do NOT do so without a good beverage. Whether it be wine, beer, diet coke or ice water...it helps to decrease stress and makes the whole ripping process not so bad after all. I prefer wine, so I rip at night.

What do you hope to accomplish with the sew along class?

Sara- I'm most excited that this class will allow ladies to gain some confidence in their ability to read patterns and in their ability to sew garments. Buying boutique clothing can be bank account draining and when you can sew for yourself, you not only save money, but you get the extreme satisfaction of knowing that every compliment that garment receives is a compliment to your abilities. I love that feeling and I want others to experience it too!

Okay Ladies, now for the exciting news!!

One Milly Dress pattern and a FREE sew along class or 50% discount on any Molly Blossom product is up for grabs!!

All you have to do is leave a one word comment describing BG and Molly Blossom!

There will be one lucky winner randomly chosen.....GOOD LUCK!!

The Winner is......

C.Wilson!!

Congrats C.Wilson! Send me your contact information so you can get your awesome prize!!

Baby Fairy

2011-06-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

You would think by the time the third bambino joined our family, I would have everything my heart desires....not the case! There are items that would just make life easier and of course there are certain items that are just too cute not to have! Maybe since the baby fairy keeps sending me babies, she will leave me some goodies one night......why not, Santa does!

I believe it's super duper important to co-sleep, it's just way safer to have little squirt as close as possible for at least the first six months....not to mention it just feels right!
In the past I used a bassinet, but I have to have the arm's reach co-sleeper this go round! It has an open side allowing me to maintain sweet closeness, but also giving Josie her own safe space!

I've been told by too many moms to get the rock & play sleeper, can't pass up good mommy advice!

It looks so comfy and...

a breeze to relocate.....just what I need!

You all know I love some babywearing! Babywearing has so many benefits, not to mention it's just so darn precious!!

I have several carriers, but I have to have the Ergo.....just can't live without it!

I can already picture Chris and Josie......pure sweetness!!

The Moby wrap is also on my wish list....I know the baby fairy will come through on this one!!

This wrap offers versatility and

will grow with baby girl.....I can keep her close enough to kiss!!

I don't have any girly diaper bags, and I just happen to have a great friend that started her own business, Molly Blossom..... she will pick out the perfect fabric and do her thing for little Ms. Josie!

It would also be great if the fairy would wave her magic wand and fill baby girl's closet with some stylish threads, such as these beauties.....

Brownie Goose

Watermelon Seed

I better go to bed or the baby fairy won't come!

Until Next Time.......

Just Me

2011-06-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

We have been in Oklahoma for two weeks now and we are finally adjusting and getting a good routine established. The first week we had to live in a hotel room.....not cool, not cool at all with tots!!!
We finally got into a two bedroom apartment, and couldn't be happier!

Happy to be able to cook dinner!! We aren't big on fast food and dining out every night with a one and three year old......yea, that's not cool either!

Happy to have a bedroom so Chase can take a nap, and I don't have to be the shhhhhh Nazi Queen on Colby's head!

Happy to have space to play!

Happy to be able to have life after the boys seven o'clock bedtime. Chris and I would have to either go to bed too or stare at the ceiling......yea, not cool either!!

Needless to stay, we were excited to say bye bye to the Microtel! Colby thought the hotel was actually Oklahoma. Once we arrived to the apartment, he looked around and said, "this is way better than Oklahoma!"

I agree!!

We are staying in a SMALL town and our leisure activities are extremely limited! We partake in story time at the library.......

we play it up at the park......

get a little crazy at imagination station.....

and cool off at the pool......

There you have it.....everything this town has to offer!!

The last two weeks have been a little stressful since Chase didn't adjust too quickly. He has been clingy, whiny, and not a big fan of sleep! He is definitely coming around...just needs a little more time!

Chris had his first day off yesterday, and I jumped on it like white on rice!! I located the first salon and scheduled a hair appointment and a mother-to-be massage.....I needed relaxation in a BAD way!!!

I bolted out the door alone, and jumped in Oddy without carrying a heavy load, strapping Chase in, and repeating, "Colby I'm not pulling out until you get buckled up!"

I turned off the Wheels on the Bus and jammed out to Train with the wind blowing in my hair....even though it's so hot it felt like a hair dryer, but I didn't care!!

I was belting out the tunes and even dancing.....nobody knows me here!

Got my hair done and had an hour before my massage.....what to do, what to do?

Go back to the apartment for lunch? No way!

Go eat lunch all by myself? Yes way!

I remember when I was young and kid free, I felt sorry for people eating alone.....now I know their story! They were having a little peace of heaven and there I was feeling bad for the poor lady!

When the hostess asked how many, I replied JUST ME!!!

I went to a little Italian restaurant and savored every bite of my delicious food. I didn't have to say...

sit down please

don't eat crayons

do you have to potty, then why are doing the potty dance

food is not for throwing

eat your food

quit playing with your food

we can't leave until everyone is done eating

STOP!

I just reveled in the quiet moment and enjoyed my entire meal while thinking about the massage I was about to indulge myself with.....it was divine!

Not something I would want frequently, but once in a blue moon is just perfect!

I love my crazy life with my wild boys, but every mommy deserves a little....

JUST ME!!!

Guest Blog- Breastfeeding 101

2011-05-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

We all know breast is the best, but it's not always possible. I'm so thankful Amy Norris shared her breastfeeding experience to remind everyone that we don't know what obstacles a mother might be going through, but we do know that support always goes a long way!!

Read Amy's story here....White Flag!

Baby Girl's Name is......

2011-05-17T10:08:00.000-07:00

Man Oh Man, it's been a trip trying to decide baby girl's name! I don't remember it being this difficult with the boys, but Baby girl took us for a ride and I'm glad it's come to an end! Chris was extremely picky, which was starting to wear me down, but I also think it's sweet that he took so much time and deliberation on choosing a name for our Baby girl!

The special name we chose for our little girl is.....

Josie Kathryn Jones

We just fell in love with Josie as soon as it rolled off my lips. The other 100 names I suggested to Chris only received a curled nose, so I knew this was the winner.

Josie is also special to us for many reasons!

My grandmother- Betty Jo

Chris's mom- Jo'el

Chris's grandfather- Joseph
Jo'el's deceased brother- Joey
Chris's grandmother- Joycelyn

It's a perfect fit for our family.....a special way to make our loved ones a part of our Baby girl!

Kathryn gave it that final touch, it's such a classical, beautiful name and it's after my mother- Kathy!

I also love the meaning!!! Josie means God will add and Kathryn means pure.....

GOD WILL ADD PURE!

Finally, we have a name we love that's meaningful to our family! Baby girl now has a name.....

Josie Kathryn Jones

My little Picasso

2011-05-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.
Pablo Picasso

We come from a long line of athletes and sports fanatics, but to be honest, I would be delighted if my children fell head over heels for the arts! I would be just as thrilled to admire their masterpieces at an art show or be consumed with the sound at a concert as I would to cheer on the sidelines. No matter what their little hearts desire, I will be front and center....proud and loud, well not too loud, not obnoxious loud!!!!!

Colby shows signs of being artistic, so I encourage his artsy side as much as I possibly can!!

Give that boy paint and a brush, and he is on cloud nine!!!

I put his masterpieces on display to express their importance.....he takes pride in his special art exhibit!

Colby's favorite canvas is......

his little brother!!

Chasey Poo is always quick to volunteer!

What a sport! Who am I kidding, he's only compliant because he enjoys the taste test!

Until Next Time.......

Birth Bonding & Booby Traps

2011-05-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

I know so many moms that had the desire to breastfeed their baby, but fell into the hospital's booby traps. My heart hurts for those moms, especially since the problems could have been avoided.

So, here is my best breastfeeding advice.......

If you really desire to breastfeed, you really need to prepare for your birth since the two go hand in hand. Many moms who birth in a hospital fall into the booby trap of wrong information and misleading advice. If you don't have the luxury of birthing in a baby-friendly hospital then there is a good chance you will have breastfeeding difficulties if you don't create a birth plan.

Hopefully, all hospitals across this country will one day be baby-friendly but as of now there are only 108, and if you are like me and live in Mississippi then you don't have access to even one in the entire state.......with that said, it's good to know your stuff!

Baby-Friendly hospitals follow The Ten Steps To Successful Breastfeeding:

1 -	Have a written breastfeeding policy that is routinely communicated to all health care staff.
2 -	Train all health care staff in skills necessary to implement this policy.
3 -	Inform all pregnant women about the benefits and management of breastfeeding.
4 -	Help mothers initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth.
5 -	Show mothers how to breastfeed and how to maintain lactation, even if they are separated from their infants.
6 -	Give newborn infants no food or drink other than breastmilk, unless medically indicated.
7 -	Practice “rooming in”-- allow mothers and infants to remain together 24 hours a day.
8 -	Encourage breastfeeding on demand.
9 -	Give no pacifiers or artificial nipples to breastfeeding infants.
10 -	Foster the establishment of breastfeeding support groups and refer mothers to them on discharge from the hospital or clinic

Please pay close attention to #7 "rooming in"........this is so very important and many hospitals mislead moms into believing that it's okay to separate from YOUR NEWBORN BABY.

It's not okay and can lead to major breastfeeding problems which causes many moms to give up on breastfeeding- More info on Rooming-in vs Nursery Care.

Make your own birthing plan that resembles baby-friendly hospital procedures and
express your concerns and encourage your hospital to implement baby-friendy hospital initiative!

Change never happens if everyone remains silent!

I obviously delivered in a hospital where I had to pay extra for private transitional care (I had to pay to keep my baby...crazy huh?) and it was worth every penny! If I could offer only one suggestion for successful breastfeeding, I would say ROOM-IN with your baby and keep that little angel skin-to-skin and you will be off to a great breastfeeding start!!

Don't let anyone convince you that it's better for your baby to be seperated from you after birth......it's just not the truth!

It's Bonding Time!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Booby Trap Series: Planning for a breastfeeding-friendly birth,

explains how to avoid hospital interventions, such as inductions that can cause breastfeeding problems like delays in milk coming in, breast edema, and sucking problems.

How The Gender Reveal Went Down!

2011-05-10T19:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the big gender reveal and what a day it was! I'm thrilled we decided to find out with our family and friends, it was a moment I will never forget, and we were blessed to have shared such a precious moment with our family and besties!

Chris stayed home with the boys and I went for my 18 week check up, and I asked the tech performing the ultrasound to please not tell me the sex, but to check it and seal it tight....really tight.

Let me tell you.....it was burning a hole in my hand! It took all I had to fight back the urge to rip into the envelope and discover my future!

I DID IT! I took it right to the baker, handed it over, and drove away with my palms sweating!

I kept busy preparing dinner, decorating, and envisioning what color would be revealed in just a few short hours.....palms sweating more at this point!

I was so anxious and about to explode....the suspense was killing me!

See....I was pretending to pose for a picture, but I was wiping the sweat from my palms!

My mind was so focused on tearing that cake to pieces that I couldn't think straight. All the guest wore pink or blue to show their prediction and the plan was to get a pic of team Boy and a pic of team Girl, Yep.....I don't have a single picture of my sweet guest, but

here are their votes!!

It's game time! Get the boys......

Get Chris's mom on skype....

and let Colby man cut the cake......

It's a GIRL!!!!!!!!

My heart skipped a beat, and I started jumping up and down, with a knife until someone grabbed it from my hand......smart move Jess!

Tears welled up in my eyes and I fought to hold them off, I knew if I let it go.....it would get out of control!

I caught a glance of my best friend of 20 years and she was about to cry.....I had to look away quickly before I lost it!!

I was overwhelmed with joy!! I don't deserve the life I've been given and all my blessings, but I accept them all in a New York minute and thank God above!

(I think Crystal had her eye on the the cake and didn't notice she was filming Jessica's cup.....Oh well, you get the idea of our excitement!!)

My two little squirts are going to love, protect, and probably turn their little sister into a tom-boy......she doesn't have a chance!

She won't need their protection, she'll probably be tougher than nails!

All the kiddos were pumped about the news.....okay maybe not, but

I sure was!!!!!!!!

It's Pink!!!!

It's a GIRL!!!

I might still be out numbered, but I'm not solo anymore!

I've got a little ham joining my team the first week of October!!

Now.....what to name her???????

Until Next Time.............

Never Forget the Vinegar!

2011-05-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

My boys never got the memo to sleep late on vacation, so our days have started bright and early at 6:00am.

One good thing is we have it all to ourselves; pool, hot tub, and even the beach.....for the first 3 hours at least!

I guess it's a good thing not to sleep the morning away, but to get an early start on new experiences, making memories, and being on the look out for evil jellyfish!

Yes, Colby was attacked by a jellyfish....bless his little heart.

It was our first day on the beach without daddy (he was in class) and I was thinking..... I GOT THIS!! I started unloading the goods when the boys noticed a group of kiddos surrounding a jellyfish washed up on the shore, but they weren't ~~crazy~~ daring enough to touch it. Colby waltzes right up, squeezed through the crowd and thought it would be a great idea to pick it up and throw it back into the sea to be reunited with his family. Mr. Jelly was not a fan of the idea so he retaliated and wrapped his long tentacle around Colby's torso and executed his revenge!

Colby felt the pulsating pain throughout his body and went ballistic.....beach goers probably thought he had been bitten by a shark. One lady yelled, "pour vinegar on it or pee on him quickly!"

Great advice.....let me just drop this one piece bathing suit and reveal my entire naked, pregnant body and urinate on my son, which by the way is running around like a chicken with his head cut off.

No thanks!

Option number 2, here we come!

I didn't have vinegar in my beach bag, but you can bet your bottom I will next time!

Picture this will you?

My pregnant tail grabbed the enormous beach bag, slung Colby on one hip, slung Chase onto the other hip, and ran as fast as humanly possible in sand to the hotel restaurant shouting for a cup of vinegar.

The staff was so helpful! One took Chase and the other two soaked Colby's body in vinegar until he quit hollering in pain. I am forever grateful!

When the traumatic episode was over, Colby only wanted to lay in the bed and talk about Mr. Jelly!

Mommy, you are never suppose to touch a jellyfish, they are so bad!

I know baby....never touch a jellyfish.

No, they hurt so bad! I need to just lay here all day so it won't hurt.

Okay, I'm so sorry that jellyfish stung you! Chase is trying to make you feel better!

No, Chase! I'm hurt really bad, your kisses won't help!

Chase never touch a jellyfish, okay.

I think we have established that already sweet boy, and always put vinegar in our beach bag, right?

Right!

Until Next Time..........

Baby Gender Reveal

2011-05-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

The weather is beautiful, our resort is fabulous, and the boys are loving everything about their first trip to the beach!!!

I can't help but to think about what we will be doing this day next week, May 9th!!

We have decided to have a baby gender reveal party, and we are so pumped!!

Next time we vacation to the beach, will we return with all boys or a girl in the mix....we shall see?????

During the ultrasound we are going to have the tech write the gender in a sealed envelope and then we will deliver the results to a baker. If the the sex is a girl, the inside of the cake will be pink or blue if it's a boy! We will find out the big surprise with our dear family and friends!! The timing worked out perfect!! It's the day after we return home and it's been quit some time since Chris has seen any friends or family.....he is thrilled!

I'm sure there are people who think baby gender reveal parties are silly but HEY, WE ARE SILLY!! Anytime we can find an excuse to celebrate with friends and family...we jump on it!! After all, we aren't having a baby shower for baby #3 so this will be our little celebration for our new bundle of joy!

To be honest, I had never heard of a baby gender reveal until a friend of mine encouraged me to have one. After searching for information, I realized it's quite the popular trend these days! Think about it......it is way more fun than some stranger looking at a monitor and saying, "it's a boy/girl!"

We get to share this amazing moment with our loved ones instead.....I'm loving it!!

I decided at the last moment to have this grand reveal so I had to plan it in two days! We left for vacation and the party will be the day after our return!

I watched several YouTube videos and I'm such a big ole baby..... I cried on almost all of them, and I don't even know these people!

I got some great ideas from Hostess

and Supermom.......

She had someone put balloons in a box to reveal the gender....cute idea!

and I absolutely love Erica's idea of a craving spread......

I kinda threw it all together, but it doesn't matter that my decorations are tacky....who cares??

We are going to enjoy time with our favorites and find out if our future holds

Tea parties, laces
and baby doll faces

or another boy to contribute to the

yard work!

Either way, we are beyond blessed!!

Until Next Time..........

Know Your Parenting Story

2011-04-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

I couldn't take my eyes off the mom and sweet baby girl waiting in line behind me at the grocery store.
Mom was on the phone gossiping about Mr. Cheater and baby girl was doing all she could to even get a glance from her mother. Baby girl couldn't even be two yet, so her little developmental instincts encouraged her to reach out and grab that candy that looked so appealing!

Mom was aggravated over her conversation about Mr. Oh no he didn't cheat again being interrupted, so she ~~beat~~ slapped Baby Girl on the top of her arm twice and once on her back......continued her conversation while Baby Girl wept with mom's red hand prints covering her little chubby arms.

My heart dropped to my stomach and I froze, along with the cashier who said, "I better bite my tongue before it gets me into trouble!"

I didn't know what to do......

Cry

Hug Baby Girl........Lord knows what she has to go through at home if her mom wasn't ashamed to be so cruel in public

Tell her about Attachment Parenting Meetings in Jackson and pray she might attend

Express to her...... THERE IS A BETTER WAY

Inform her that she is hacking away at her future relationship with her Baby Girl and destroying her self-worth

ask her the question, "what if someone forcefully slapped you three times when you make mistakes......would you feel loved, respected, cherished??????

What did I do?

I froze, walked away, and took my groceries along with my stomach ache, and returned to my car. I prayed for mom, Baby Girl, and their future. I was disgusted at Mom's behavior, but I also prayed for her past pain and healing. She was probably parented the same way and it's all she knows. Cruel parenting is a vicious cycle, unless an individual makes a conscious decision to make a change.

The healing process starts with knowing your parenting story....

After praying, I thanked God for allowing me to be a part of starting Attachment Parenting in Jackson, Ms. It will provide support to so many moms and allow God to plant a seed in so many hearts.

You never know.....

maybe someone will invite that Mom to a meeting and Baby Girl's life will be changed forever!

That's what Attachment Parenting is all about! No matter what your parenting past is, you can use AP principles and end the parenting cycle you don't won't to repeat!

If your interested in API meetings, visit....API of Metro Jackson!

The essence of Attachment Parenting is about forming and nurturing strong connections between parents and their children. Attachment Parenting challenges us as parents to treat our children with kindness, respect and dignity, and to model in our interactions with them the way we'd like them to interact with others.

Independence: Check

2011-04-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

Colby, what do you think this baby is...boy or girl?

A boy...a girl won't work!

What? A girl will work just fine! We will be happy with a boy or girl, right?

No, it's a boy and his name is Bob!

Bob?? I'm not sure if I like Bob. Besides, it could be a girl and Bob isn't a girl name.

What about Bob the builder?

Ummm...still not a girl name.

IT'S A BOY!

You have a brother, don't you need a sister?

Not this time!

What do you mean not this time?

We are having 8 more babies!

How would you take care of 8 babies?

I tell them, "you not suppose to do that!"

Wow! I wish it was that simple...then you would obey every time!!

Yea!

Since we are having eight more babies, I had to get the ball rolling with Colby's independence!
When this baby arrives in 5 months, Chase will only be 19 months so I need Colby surviving on his own with certain life skills.

The first skill we tackled was getting dressed all by himself.

Hanging up this step-by-step chart did the trick........

I lay his clothes and shoes out, he does the rest!! The best part.....no more GET YOUR CLOTHES ON power struggles! AMEN!

Next, buckle himself up in the car seat.

This one took a lot of patience, since it took a lot of time. The first week of mastering this skill was tedious....it took him about 15 minutes each time! Not that I have to remind anyone, but he can be very strong-willed so he would not give up and would not let me help at all.

Practice paid off and he now buckles himself up in a minute flat!

This was a must since I will have THREE car seats in my mommy mobile. Colby will be all the way in the back of Oddy, and this mamma is not about to climb to the back every time we load up!

So....

Wipe own booty: check

get self dressed: check

buckle up alone: check

Now, if I could just get him to cook dinner, clean the house, and potty-train Chase......WE WOULD BE COOKIN WITH GAS!

Until Next Time........

Boy or Girl????

2011-04-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

SURPRISE....was the plan!

SURPRISE.....IT'S A BOY/GIRL!

How exciting to wait for nine months and experience the amazing anticipation building up to one single, glorious moment!

Apparently, I'm the only one who sees the fun in it all.

Family and friends have been dropping subtle hints for me to find out the sex...some not so subtle!

It was easy for me to stick to the plan since Chris wasn't going to be in town for the ultrasound. I would never find out the sex of our child without him by my side! Well....what do you know, he comes home for two weeks and it just so happens to be on the special day!

The one factor holding my decision steady was thrown smooth out of the window!

Chris said, "you don't have to find out, but I am!"

Whatever.....that would never happen in this lifetime!

He desires to find out the sex so, I caved like a fat man on thin ice!

The very few friends that supported the surprise plan, expressed their true feelings after being informed of the new plan....

Oh thank God!

Good, I was wondering what you were thinking?

Thank heavens, if it's a girl we have a lot of shopping to do!

I was praying you would change your mind!

GIRLS GIRLS GIRLS.....YOU CRACK ME UP!

May 9th is the big day!!!

What do you think......

Boy or Girl?

Until Next Time.....