DAUGHTERS!

Did you catch the plural there?

Daughterssssss.....as in more than one. Yep.

We are having a little girl!!!!

A beautiful (you can totally tell she's gorgeous even in the ultrasound), perfectly healthy baby girl. Due this January, Olive Christianne will be India June's baby sister and our newest daughter.

AND I'M JUST SO EXCITED!!!!!!

Dia sporting her "Big Sister" shirt while being excited :)

Olive means "peaceful" and Christianne is a feminine form of Christopher, Rory's middle name, which means "bearer of Christ." (Actually, all of Rory's family has a middle name beginning with "Christ" so Olive will not just carry on her Papa's name, but his whole family's tradition.) So we have ourselves a sweet little "Peaceful Bearer of Christ" in her papa's tradition.


And with two strong personalities ahead of her (her mama and older sister), she just may be a little more on the peaceful side if you know what I mean. We instantly knew this would be her name. And just like with Dia, I cried when I heard it. With both of our children now, I realize that we are more discovering their name rather than just choosing it. We really feel that their persons and spirits are already well-established before the Lord and it's our job to "tune-in" to who they are.

Dia and Liv. Olive and India. DD and Livy. I can just see a beautiful friendship already.

In fact, when the ultra-sound tech told Dia she would have a sister, Dia cried.

"NO! Girl!"

She wanted the baby to be a girl and thought that a sister wasn't a girl. How cute is that? We explained that a sister is a girl and that was met with giggles and a hearty, "Yay!" As we've been slowly talking more and more about the baby to come now that we have a name (Dia says "Olif"--so adorable), we explained that Baby Olive will come to live with us forever and even sleep in bed with us. That night Rory went to lay his head next to Dia's and she got upset saying, "No, Papa! Baby Olif sleep there!" Without any prompting, she has also taken to kissing my belly. My prayer is that her protection over and love for this new sweetheart will carry on long into their adulthood and throughout their long lives serving the Lord together.

One of the best things about the ultra-sound is that it's done at home by an amazing and talented professional who also records our voices along with the full ultra-sound so we will have our reactions to this blessed news on a DVD to enjoy forever. Not to mention, her first glorious images to savor forever--just like with India.

The other day I went to return some shirts at a local off-the-rack department store. I prayed while in line that the Lord would grant me favor from the cashier (I didn't have my receipt and was pretty sure I was well passed the 30-day return policy deadline anyway). He completely granted me favor and the cashier even gave me a knowing look as she explained that she knew the shirts weren't worth anywhere near what she was giving me in store credit. I couldn't help but thank Him (and her, of course), but somewhere deep down I felt so unworthy of the full amount I received when I didn't really deserve it. I now think that was a teeny tiny little glimpse into the favor He has had in store for Rory and me. Knowing that we will have two healthy daughters...well, of course I haven't been able to stop thanking the Lord. But I also feel so unworthy. Children are a blessing. A blessing FROM THE LORD, He says. They are pure gifts. And here, selfish, horribly flawed, completely unqualified us gets two. Two daughters to love and raise and nurture before the Lord. I don't think I could ask for anything more!


Thank You, Lord, for Your favor! For the blessing of two daughters. They are nothing but gifts and I praise You forever for such favor. Thank You. Be with us each day and night as we learn and struggle and rejoice through parenthood. Teach us to love as You do. And to be as patient and gracious as You are. In all ways and things, let our family be a testament, a glory, an example and following of You and Your Son, our ultimate gift. Cause our home to be a living testimony and praise to You always--in strength and weakness, good times and hard. Lead us all closer to each other and nearer to You. I also continue to ask You for health and strength for all of us and Baby Olive as she continues to grow. In the name of Your Precious Son, Amen.

Baby Olive, we can't wait to meet you!

The Honor of a Legacy

I know that when home-schooling somewhat fell into my family's lap back in 1993, my parents were hopeful that I would not have the same educational and social experiences they had. Rory's parents also chose home-schooling making efforts so that their son would not repeat their own history.

Rory and I don't have that concern when it comes to educating India. As a direct result of our parents' sacrifices, prayers and hard work, we are honored to continue the legacy they began with us. We pray that our daughter builds the same friendships, finds the same community and enjoys the same educational benefits we did. While we are different parents and different people than our parents are and while India is already all her own person presenting unique situations and decisions, ultimately our goal is to give our daughter just what our parents gave us.

What an honor.

Obviously, our parents were not perfect. I know it goes without saying that our childhoods were not from the fairybooks. But our parents laid a foundation, began the process of setting us apart while we were children and it has only blessed us. It inspires me now as a mom. And getting to go the annual Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE) Home School Convention as a home-school mom, a second generation home-schooler, thrilled me.


Call me what you will, but I love home-schoolers. I adore denim jumpers (*note: I do not wear denim jumpers, merely admire and adore). I grin from ear to ear watching moms and dads huddle over curriculum books. I make special mention to tip my imaginary hat to the little boys in suits. I do not know why, but I just love it.

I love the uniqueness of home-schoolers. I am impressed always by their ability to remain set apart from the world. In it, but not of it. Loving it, but not living it. They are a special subculture, unique to themselves and no matter how many people try to document it, analyze it or demystify it, the lifestyle of a conservative Christian home-school family deserves respect. These people don't just talk it, they walk it. And I love it!

This year, Rory and I went merely as spectators, trying to glean and soak in as much as possible while still just getting our feet wet. But we ended up being pretty inspired!

The convention is a whole world unto itself--lectures, sales booths, a graduation. And the focus of it all? Christ. Jesus! Whether they are discussing how to make lap books or select curriculum or plan your day or budget your finances, it all comes back to serving Christ, remaining sensitive to the spirit of your child and serving Jesus. I think all Christians should hang out around here each year just because it is so spiritually rich.

Take for instance a lecture we heard on how dads can support moms in home-schooling. Blew our socks off. We expected the whole "Help around the house, grade papers, be the head of the household, call the shots and pray for submission." We ended up hearing, "If you are not listening to the heart of your wife everyday, that is wife neglect." "If your wife has to do the dishes, that is wife neglect." "If you are not hugging and sharing physical, non-sexual intimacy with your wife everyday, that is wife neglect." Huh? Well, sign me up for this lecture any day! He challenged husbands to put family before work (shared his own story as a top lawyer and how cutting back his office hours only blessed his efforts), called them to never expect submission but love as Christ even if she doesn't deserve it. He even, wait for it, called each husband to "shoot their TV" as Little Bear Wheeler used to. Some men raised their hands and voices at this--"What about sports? News?" He asked them how much their wife has sacrificed to home-school their children and told them television would be a drop in the bucket compared to what she has given up for the better of their family.

Oh yeah, preach it, baby!

Ok, so we got pretty inspired...

And that wasn't even the educational or directly spiritual lectures. Am I absolutely boring you with my gross enthusiasm?

Sorry. I can't help it!

We heard time and time again that education is discipleship and that discipleship is a scriptural charge to parents. That any establishment that teaches or advocates life without God is discipling in atheism. Scary, huh? But true.

When it came to educational philosophy, I was especially excited to find these women who were absolutely speaking my language. Educational philosophies are fairly scientific but intensely personal and you have to find what works for you. Charlotte Mason and the KONOS method are two symbiotic philosophies that have already given me direction with Dia.

And it's direction to simply let. her. play. Let her be young, be a child. And these women even had the scientific studies to prove its benefits--this is so helpful when you are making your own way with your own child! Not only do early reading and early preschool offer no educational benefits or "boosts", but it can actually harm them. While I am in no way, an "unschooler" (yes, this is a real term), I am completely of the mind that forcing education upon a young mind can only hurt both parent and child.

They shared the story of their daughter/sister who did not read until eight years old. Eight. I imagine that in formal educational training, this poor soul would have been allotted to the special needs group and never given much opportunity to learn. Clearly a bright child, she just wasn't ready until she was ready.

She's now a successful engineer. Extremely well-read and well-educated, she was given the chance to learn at her own pace and it ignited her academics. I want this for my children. Home-school is a unique venue to that end.

I could write pages (have already written pages...sorry!) about how this convention encouraged, inspired and united us. I am just so grateful for all the parents who forged ahead when it was even illegal to educate your own children. All those parents who kept on with it even when outside family members and friends frowned on and questioned them. I am so grateful for the parents who did what they knew was right even when no one else did. I am so grateful for my parents and my in-laws. They began the legacy and here we go following after them.

And being Gratitude Monday, let me continue my count...

91. My parents. Home-schooling lets you see all the ridiculous imperfections in both your parents and children--we came out loving each other all the more for them!
92. My in-laws. Dia and baby #2 will be richly blessed for the choices you made.
93. Celebrating the little things that really are big things when you're a papa and mama (and a husband who doesn't mind getting emotional with you over it).

94. The work of the Holy Spirit who gently leads you to an inconspicuous lunch spot only to be inspired to make a whole change.
95. My husband--the papa who does everything FUN. (He sent me this picture while I was at Starbucks writing this...balloons and static electricity, I'm thinking...)


96. Unexpected faithfulness.
97. Enjoying my daughter's proud selection of clothing (She always enthusiastically nods her head and says, "ASKX?" when making sure it's okay...)

98. The grace of being able to go outdoors at least for a little each day first thing in the morning. Fresh air is good.
99. A small fridge and the way it helps me keep budget.
100. Knowing you're not alone.

Milestones and a Sadness

Let me start with our super amazing celebration--Dia now owns her very own big girl panties! For the last day or so she has been solely using her potty chair for both number 1 and 2 so we thought a trip to buy panties was in order! She really wanted the Tinkerbell ones but they weren't in her size, so we ended up with a variety of Minnie Mouse, My Little Pony and a princess pack. She saw the Thomas the Train ones on the way out and got really excited about them, but they were only made for boys. She's pretty happy, though! And yes, I almost cried. But it is just so exciting--who can be sad?



Except for the news we recieved over the weekend. If you have known us for any length of time you know we have wonderful dogs--Roxy and Depot. We often joke that Roxy is more of a lioness than a pup and somehow possesses the widsom of Aslan and one day will open her snout and just spill out wisdom and love. Unfortunately, both of our dogs also like to race. Not just run, they race. They have been known to get out and literally race each other until their paws bleed. They always, especially Rox, return home within a few hours. Roxy is a rescue and we are confident in assuming that the man who owned her before did not treat her as she deserved as she is extremely skiddish and wouldn't even approach a doorway if a man were near it for at least the first year we had her. She also refuses to be rescued from her races. Whereas Depot will happily jump in with just about anyone who whistles for him, Roxy will hightail it the other direction.


When they got out in our new neighborhood, however, we knew there was no way they could find their way home. We put up signs, ads in craigslist (both under Pets and Lost and Found) and visited the pound and humane society. Everyday we prayed. Within a few days, some wonderful teenage girls from our new neighborhood called saying they had found Depot. When they brought him home (Dia shrieked, "Depot home! Depot home!") they also told us that they saw Roxy and had tried to bring her in, too, but she barked, growled and, of course, ran away. They continued after her and watched another man try to rescue her from the street but she nearly bit him.

On Friday, we receieved a call from a local animal hospital. Apparently, Roxy had been hit by a car and did not survive. Oh, I'm crying just writing this again! Roxy was our first baby. And like I said before, she really was a special dog. She used to jump on her back paws and gently lean into you to hug you. I am so sad to think that it's her fear that finally cost her her life. I so wish she had been treated better as a pup and would have gone with the people who tried to save her! I'm learning a lot from this sweet dog...and can't really talk about it. All Dia knows is that Roxy ran away. Death seems a little over the top to try to explain. Has anyone else had experience or wisdom to share in this?

In the midst of our sorrow, though, we do have a lot to be grateful for...and it IS Gratitude Monday. So even with a heavy heart, I count...

81. The more than five wonderful years we spent with Roxy-girl. We love and miss her so much.
82. The kindness of strangers in returning our Depot! Apparently he had his first cheeseburger and trip to the drive-thru.
83. The brilliance of growth...watching a not-long-ago newborn put on panties.
84. A husband who cooks! Dinner AND raw vegan chocolate pudding, ooh la la!
85. The unparalleled wisdom and encouragement found at the home-school convention (more to come soon!)
86. Wedding shoes just right for a little girl...the joy of having so much to pass on to my daughter.



87. The over-commercialized but so fun girly pictures that make panties feel extra special.
88. John Eldridge and this book that I almost gave up on.
89. Family runs--getting to know our new 'hood while still following this too-good-to-be-hard training schedule (taken v e r y slowly out of respect for baby #2)
90. Slow days at home...don't judge me by my housework--especially today!

Little Dia

Have you ever taken a picture of your child and just been tickled with their cuteness?

This definitely makes that list. We decided to take our bike to the splash pad near our house since we've been missing our fun bike rides in this intense heat. And of course, we needed our sunglasses, too.

My little Dia is two months away from being two and this ridiculous piece of trash e-newsletter I signed up for sent this dangerous little lie about how I need to sign up for some useless "Preschool" newsletter now because my daughter is no longer a toddler. Can you believe the kind of filth that comes out of the internet these days? My Dia is not only still a toddler, she's still MY BABY!

Right?

Oh man. Do they have some kind of control-freak parent support group for people like me? Parenthood is like nothing else. My mom always says it's the only job where you spend your life working yourself out of a job. It's strange...and beautiful.

And then we have days where I see a part of her that is just developing and I get so excited with the person she is becoming.

Which brings me back to the splash pad...We were meeting some friends there to play when I looked over and saw Dia literally surrounded by a group of about a dozen 6-year olds from day camp. They were all giggling and laughing watching my sweet girl. I looked closer and saw that she was screaming and making loud noises for the crowd as they laughed and egged her on. She ate it up!

By the time I got my camera phone out, the crowd had dwindled but Dia retained a small following until we left. I actually had to ask them to move so we could get out. As we rode off Dia waved and shouted, "Bye, guys!" The crowd chorused "Bye, Baby!"

How fun is that? My little entertainer. And I emphasize little. And I love those kids for calling her baby.

She Got It From Her Mama

Not the blonde hair. Not the blue eyes. Not the tendency to know just how everything should be and the fearlessness to share such facts with friends and strangers alike.

Nope.

She sleeps with her eyes open.

Like her mama! (Creepy, I know! But pretty cool as far as she and I are concerned, ha ha)

This picture is from her fully asleep during a nap. She was even snoring.

Just one more part of herself she can thank me for. (Wink, wink)

We're In!

As of last Saturday night, the Starks family is officially home! I can't tell you how great it is to be able to say that after two months of sojourning. More than anything, we have all three just missed the simple pleasure of being together as a family--sleeping all in the same bed, eating our meals together, etc. Dia woke up Sunday morning, lifted her head up to look left then right and exclaimed, "MY HOUSE!"

We are all so glad to be home.

There are still plenty of projects keeping us busy, not the least of which is unpacking. It's a bit slow going but we're making headway and have our kitchen fully functional. Praise the Lord! Such a joy to be in my own kitchen again. And it's fun learning the intricacies of a new place, too.

It could not be more appropriate than to continue counting my blessings from the Lord today on Gratitude Monday.

And, as you can probably imagine, this is just a sampling of the many, many things for which I have to be grateful.

67. The ease and tender rest of Dia's first nap at home (she asks to hold one of her books after we read them and falls asleep with it in her arms).

68. The beauty of everything small

69. Our first (messy) morning at home. Dia shrieked with joy, "MY TOYS!" And immediately set up camp on our bedroom floor.


70. Old things (toys) that feel both brand new and strangely comforting after months of being packed away


71. Precious morning hair and smile

72. The sheer brilliance of being close to every place we love! After seven years of living "out north" we are tickled beyond all comprehension to live in biking distance to our favorite shopping, restaurants and stores. So close that we were able to eat out our first morning at one of our favorite casual dining spots for breakfast. This is so great for us and the blessing of convenience is not wasted on us!
73. A little girl who is all her own and kept her shades on all through said breakfast.

74. Sweet and wonderful new neighbors.
75. Aunt Alli's first night as a server--at a restaurant that, you guessed it, is right down the street so that we were able to be one of her first tables. (Dia clapped her hands and yelled, "Yay, Alli!" after she greeted one of her tables, ha ha!)
76. Family that continues to give and give even after the excitement has waned and all that's left is more work.
77. A husband who provides! Who provides beyond my girlhood dreams. Thank You, Lord!
78. The excitement of all the potential that comes with a semi-fixer-upper.
79. The fun and novelty of taking swim breaks with my girl in our own pool.
80. The gift, pleasure and joy that comes from being a family.

It's A...

Ok. We have no idea. We won't know the sex of our sweet already amazing baby #2 for another six weeks.

BUT WE HEARD THE HEARTBEAT!

Oh, friends. A heartbeat. A steady swish, swishing of a new life. A whole new life. A life already to be preceded by a lovely sister. A life I don't know yet. A life we are just embarking on together as a family.

Big Sister ran into the doctor's office today, ecstatic. She's very familiar with the staff there as they have been her pediatricians since she was six months old. She ran in and told the receptionist, Sarah, "Baby heart in der!" and pointed to my tummy.

Oh, Big Sister. You already pave the way for so much excitement, so much fun, so much together.

But can I tell you a little secret? It was one very, very fast heartbeat. The three little digits rang 160. Can you say a girl?! I'm thinking a girl... Sisters!

But wait with me for another six weeks and I promise I'll let you know for sure. We are tickled over here. And yes, when the swishing started, I melted. And teared. And thanked such a Good Lord who would bless us so. TWICE. TWICE. It must be said more than once.

Especially thankful also for my exam buddy and the baby papa who was smart enough to take pics. Dia is simply wonderful to have around and I was so glad to share today with her.

Enjoying this special time of Dia as an only child and the excitement that comes from watching a tummy grow with life. Thanking our God whom we serve and pray to daily for all our needs.

A Little Experiment

How fun is this? Er, I mean the idea of this. Go to the grocery, buy a potato, watch as your grandmother shows you how to make it grow.

Or not.

"The EPA published findings in the report "Unfinished Business: A Comparative Assessment of Environmental Problems" that ranked pesticide residues in food as the number three cancer risk today." --The World Bank's Strategy for Reducing Poverty and Hunger: A Report to the Development Community

"Several government reports conclude that 60-90% of all types of cancer in the U.S. are related to environmental factors ranging from food preservatives and additives to toxic chemical substances." Douglas M. Costle, Former Director of the EPA

Pesticides and preservatives are so toxic. Organic isn't just a catchphrase or a catchy way to make extra money (although plenty of corporations are taking advantage of us and twisting organic to mean all kinds of things).

Did you know:

"The Delaney Amendment is found in Section 409 of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. It states:

No additive shall be deemed safe if it is found to induce cancer when ingested by man or animal.

Under this amendment, if an additive is deemed unsafe, it cannot be legally used. {HOWEVER,} Pesticides and agrochemicals that ARE KNOWN CARCINOGENS that were approved prior to (this) amendment continue to be used without discretion." --The World Bank's Strategy for Reducing Poverty and Hunger: A Report to the Development Community

And it's not just that these chemicals are known carcinogens (as if that wasn't bad enough), but it's also that organic food has actually been found to be more nutritious, more rich in vitamins and minerals. Considering that minerals and vitamins are derived from soil, it's really no surprise that not adding chemicals to the soil is better than adding them. But still, for some who need the science to prove it, it's here. And here. And here.

We simply can't trust our food suppliers like we used to. Unless you know them personally (ahem, farmer's markets make this possible...) or grow the food yourself, we just can't know what exactly was done to our food. If the EPA is willing to admit that 60-90% of all types of cancer comes from food preservatives and toxins, it's worth our attention.

*Emphasis in quotes are mine and they are taken from Living Cuisine: The Art and Spirit of Raw Food by Renee Loux Underkoffler

It's so hard as a family to eat what's not only healthy, but truly safe. (And no, Laffy Taffy is not organic and yes, it is full of poison! I'm so sorry, Baby!)

So...here's my little experiment and I'd like your feedback. I'm thinking of posting our family grocery budget for the month of August and letting you all see what exactly we buy, cook and eat. And how we can make eating organic not only possible, but also enjoyable.

Now, this all depends on us moving home before August (please pray!). What do you think? Would you find it helpful? We're just a family of three, but it might be helpful for all of us to share how we manage to eat healthy, safely and well.

Leave me a comment if you'd be interested.

But don't think today is just about bumming you out! Oh, no. There are still plenty of things for which to be grateful! Such as...

52. Being able to cook for my family in my childhood home. It's fun to cook for 7!
53. Watching my girl enjoy the special "play area" my parents had custom-designed in their pool for their grandkids. (It's like an oversized step that takes up a decent amount of space so that Dia can crawl and walk and wade around on her own...with my constant supervision!)
54. Watching Rory enjoy her enjoying the pool.
55. Being pregnant.
56. Being pregnant with a toddler. I feel like such a mom!
57. Finally building friendships at my new Stroller Strides class--it was actually pretty emotional for me having to leave my other class up north. But today we met friends at the library.
58. Free (and air-conditioned) story time at the library!
59. Watching my tiny but tough little 21-month old hold her own with the big kids in the mall play area. She is not rough, but she does not get pushed around, either!
60. Really enjoying reading with Dia. She is so into it it's contagious!
61. Naptime. Yes, I actually sleep every afternoon with Dia. So. Tired. Must. Rest.
62. Dia and her towers. "Mama, puh-lay! Towers!"
63. Late-night episodes of Castle with my love. We're all about Beckett and Castle.
64. Lizards that run right past the big french doors inciting gleeful shouts.
65. Hair detangler. And the picture of the "big girl" on the front which is all we need in order to be able to use it.
66. Church as a family and being able to hold my little girl while dancing and worshiping with a new one inside. What a privilege.
67. Devotions, e-devotions, devotion apps and all the ways He can encourage me even as I cook and clean and live.

So very blessed...

"Killer" Muffins

*Discaimer: these muffins will not kill you. Rather, they are delicious, gluten-free, high in plant protein and completely free of artificial sweeteners/white sugar--my definition of a killer combo.

I have to direct your attention over to this blog post today, because Erika posted the absolute best gluten-/dairy-/sugar- free muffin recipe. Like, the BEST. EVER. We're in love and Dia ate three in a row as soon as I made them. In fact, I made a dozen two days in a row because they don't seem to last more than a day.


They are easy and only required me to buy one ingredient I was unfamiliar with: quinoa flakes. I'll be honest with you. I do not like quinoa. Neither does Dia. But it's just SO SO good for you. This recipe completely masked the quinoa flavor while still keeping its high nutrition and protein content.

I followed her recipe to a tee save for a few points:

1. I used only honey and left out the stevia. I upped the honey to three (3) tablespoons instead of the two she recommends.
2. 400 degrees had my muffins nearly burnt by thirteen minutes, so I adjusted it the second time to 375 degrees and they were prefect at thirteen minutes (I was using my mom's super fabulous new fancy oven so it's taken some getting used to).

Dia likes to sit "outside" while enjoying her muffins...

Saying "cheese" with her muffins out on the veranda....

Happy Weekend! (These muffins make for great snacks while out and about or even a great simple breakfast on busy church-readying Sundays--I hope you get a chance to try them out soon!)

Crafty India

In my humble opinion, I had a great idea the other day inspired by the sticker section at Target.

Dia and I were shopping for a friend's birthday gift when I decided to let Dia wrap it...with stickers. We were gifting her sweet Laila with a few books so I bought a simple box just big enough to hold them. I then selected as many cute, girly stickers as I could find: My Little Pony, Hello Kitty, metallic hearts, etc. Dia loved holding them in the cart and when it came time to wrap Laila's present, I set her up in her high chair with her stickers and some crayons and this girl turned a simple box into a shining beacon of artistic glory. (I know--I really should work on my parental pride.) No really, it did look great and it really looked like it was Dia's gift to her friend, something I really want to instill in her when we give gifts. Too often it's just me going to the store, picking it out, wrapping it up and then handing it to the child's mom at the party. Let me tell you, this time Dia took full ownership of this present. She talked about it non-stop.

"Mama, box for Laila. Happy tooo youuuuu. Laila books. Me do it. Me!"

She showed everyone in the house multiple times (we were staying at my parents' house) and when it came time to go the party, she ran right to where the box was and asked to hold it in the car. Then when we got there, she asked to hold it while we walked in. (Note to self: try to make the box light enough for the kids to carry! This one wasn't too bad, but I'll be more conscious next time.) To be honest, I was worried Dia wouldn't give it to Laila and would insist that it was hers (we love saying "Mys" around here--that's Dia-speak for "mine"). But instead this little 21-month old held the package the whole time we walked up to the house and while we looked for Laila. She then ever so proudly handed it over to Laila (who I think was slightly shocked to be asked to carry such a big box!). Both girls then proceeded to peel off several stickers and play with them--a gift in itself! I was so proud of her to be so generous and so excited to GIVE. Plus she just had a lot of fun decorating that box.

D with her finished creation

I think next time I'll go to the dollar store or order in bulk online just to save money. I'll also buy more puffy stickers because they are easier for her little hands to peel off herself. And that really was another bonus to this craft: Dia got to do just about all of it by herself. How many toddlers can say they wrapped their friend's present, you know? She was so proud of her work and that made me so proud of her. As a mom and as a home-schooling mom, I strive to instill that sense of accomplishment and capability in her. This tiny, fun little afternoon project did just that.

Happy Birthday, Laila!

And here's a video of D talking through her birthday present thoughts (I have no idea where she got the "no boys" concept but it cracked me up and she was still insisting no boys touch it while we were driving to the party!):

A Few Firsts on the Fourth

We still aren't in our new home yet. So close. Everything is done, furniture is in, but fumes are deathly. We had planned on hosting our first pool party on the fourth...I even bought D a special Independence Day shirt that I packed thinking there was no way we would not be in our house by July 4th.

But we are still making the most of our family time! Dia has bonded in special ways with both sides of her grandparents (and their dogs) and her aunts. We wouldn't have been able to fabricate this ourselves--only the Lord could have planned such a special (semi-stressful, almost too much to handle...but also a blessing in many ways) extended family bonding time.

The fourth of July was especially great because one of Dia's favorite things in the world is FIREWORKS. "Fie-uh-wuhks!" (She also loves motorcycles...I think she has a flair for the exciting.) Rory celebrated the day they legalized the sale of them in Phoenix and took Dia for a special trip to the fie-uh-wuhks stand on Monday. He even let her pick out most of them! (And truth be told, the ones she picked were the biggest crowd pleasers.)

She waited patiently (asking regularly) until the sun set. I was happy to distract her with her first ice cream cone!

Chocolate, anyone?

Ice cream cones are a big deal to me. I have always said my favorite food is two ice cream cones--one for each hand. We bought special gluten-free cones from Whole Foods and used delicious chocolate ice cream made from coconut milk and sweetened with agave. What a blessing to be able to go to the store to get such high-quality sweets I don't worry about her eating!

You can see my joy in sharing a new love with D:

Like mother like daughter--she likes her ice cream cones!

I can't tell you how grateful I am to have such wonderful family and to be able to take such advantage of them. Really they have done so much for us. And not just one side, but both sides give and give until you can't imagine they have anything left to give. And then they help and share and give some more. And how special to have a holiday, a Monday to start the week with us all waking up together and then watching the special colorful explosions and singing patriotic ballads before bed.

Thankful for sacrifice today...those who sacrifice for a safe, democratic country...my parents and in-laws who sacrifice for our comfort and well-being...my husband who sacrifices for his family's future...my Lord who is the example of all sacrifice.



Happy Birthday, America!

Pregnancy...This Time Around

I'm thrilled to announce that I'm twelve weeks pregnant today. Tomorrow begins my second trimester. Time has flown and honestly, I'm just so thrilled to be this far along.

When my first pregnancy resulted in a miscarriage in the first trimester (before week 12, but after we had already heard the heartbeat), I left somewhat emotionally scarred. When I found myself pregnant a second time (with India) , I kept waiting for the bleeding and cramping to start. When it never did (Thank You, Lord!), I felt too frightened to do anything. No exercise, no hair dye, no pool swimming (chlorine), etc. I also never ate sugar or anything conventionally grown. Seriously, organic or bust.

<-- About to pop with my Dia girl...

This time around...well, remember how I said I hadn't sugar in at least five years? I've made up for that in the last few weeks. Honest to goodness, the only edible thing I can stomach is...Laffy Taffy.

What??? Oh I know. I gross myself out. My head wants salad. My brain dreams of greens! Fresh veggies! Vegetable juice from my own juicer! Ah...someday. But for now I will literally throw up just the vegetables in whatever I eat. Brown rice with cooked cabbage? I'll be re-living that cabbage (and just the cabbage, mind you, the rice stays put) in a few hours and suffering from a stomachache for two days minimum. Slightly ridiculous, I think.

When I was pregnant with India, I followed my midwife's and the Bradley Method's high protein diet to a tee. I took it literally and would sit up til midnight if that's what it took to get all 80-100 grams of protein in. Think that contributed to my excess weight gain? Ha!

And here I am eating just about everything I hate about the standard American diet (SAD). Strange sense of justice? Karma for my high standards? Nah. I think it's just that subtle reminder that once again, by the grace and miracle of the Lord, my body is not currently my own.

This second time around I'm also exercising. Not just to keep my weight in check, but it's honestly just so good for you. Plus the doctors/midwives recommend keeping current with your pre-pregnancy activity level. So while I'm temporarily abandoning my half-marathon training, I am still running and attending Stroller Strides. And tomorrow, I'm getting my hair done. (Mind you, I won't color my hair with any dye on my scalp. I use highlights that, for the most part, don't touch skin or scalp in an effort to minimize the toxins my body absorbs.)

If this time is anything like last, hopefully the junk food will abate by trimester two. I scarfed taco supremes from Taco Bell like it was the last food on earth with Dia but just through the first trimester. This baby is all about the candy, though. It's definitely Rory's child.

I have no more sense of control or idea of just who exactly is about to join our family this time around than I did with India, but I do know that I'm in love just like I did with my first girl. I'm smitten. I'm thrilled. Tremendously honored to have not just one miracle, but two. TWO! If anything, I'm doubly humbled, doubly impressed with the grave responsibility before me. I spend an unnatural amount of time scheming up unique baby names (can't wait to find out the sex!), planning the nursery and playroom and just generally trying to imagine the next summer with two kids. Two. I do not know what tomorrow holds, but Lord, I am so grateful for today. Today--the chance to be here with my daughter and husband, to be pregnant again, to play dollhouse, build towers and feed my girl. I love being pregnant.

I just pray the Laffy Taffy doesn't screw the baby up too much.

Great Food Blogs to Follow

I stumbled across some food blogs during my intense bouts with morning sickness.

What? Does that seem strange to be reading about food while so nauseous you can't even enter the kitchen?

I know, I know, it even felt bizarre to me but I was so sick I was desperate for something, anything that sounded or looked good to eat. When I was pregnant with Dia, protein really helped and I've always read/heard that eating (even if just crackers) can actually help relieve morning sickness. After scanning a few posts from these yummy cooks, I ended with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Simple, yes, but I was finally able to keep down a meal. So I guess these girls have a special place in my heart.

Yes, I Want Cake is more than just a food blog. She is a recently retired teacher thanks to the birth of her first child. She stayed ridiculously active and in shape during her entire pregnancy and while she bakes a lot, it's always from scratch and she strives to eat high quality, nutrient-dense food (even if it does have wheat/dairy/sugar). She is going on a no sugar stint for the month of July, though! I'm actually pretty excited to see what she comes up with in the way of desserts in the next 30 days. I think most everyone can glean something from this one.

Clean Eating Chelsey probably shares closest with my own eating style. Lots of raw, always vegan, vegetable-filled, always gluten-/dairy-free goodness. She's also a runner, so she keeps up with her fitness regime all while eating cleanly. I've enjoyed her recipes and thoughts a lot these last few weeks. Plus, this girl has the best give-aways! And she does them a lot. I encourage everyone to include at least one all vegetarian meal a week. Chelsey is a great one to look to for something simple, healthy and vegetarian that everyone can enjoy.

Cait's Plate is one of those fun little blogs where I get to enjoy observing a young working woman in New York City. Clearly, we have nothing in common and her eating style is nothing like mine, but I still have a lot of fun following her adventures. I have a feeling a lot of you meat/dairy/gluten-eaters may benefit from her food creations.

Hoping you find yummy culinary inspiration for the weekend!

Playing For Smarts

Just want to direct your attention to this great series of blog posts from a delightful home-schooling mom who writes one of my favorite blogs, Cultivated Lives. You don't have to be a home-schooling mom to appreciate this series, either--it's simply a great philosophy for raising children.

And it's simple: let them play! She has much wisdom, science and practical experience with this seemingly basic concept. I think you'll enjoy it as much I do.

Also, for anyone in the Arizona area, the home-school convention is a coming! We missed all the fun last year due to a death in the family, but hope to get in on the excitement and inspiration this July 22 and 23. And hopefully you can excuse my tardiness in posting this...the early registration (complete with early bird discount) has, um, expired. Sorry! But you can still get in and it's a great day or weekend to spend with your spouse. It's the ideal spot to get mutually inspired, strike up exciting conversation and both seek the Lord for the direction of your children. Plus, it's freezing in there and when it's this hot in June (97 degrees at 10am?), a freezing convention center in July is mighty appealing...

Playing with Dia until then...

She turned Grandma's ice cube trays into a boat--genius!

A Nice Little Something For the Kids

Since we've been staying "abroad" (AKA at in-laws and parents' homes), it's been both wonderful and difficult to get the right food in my girl's tummy. Both of our families are passionate about healthy, organic food and if they aren't gluten-free themselves, they are happy to comply. But not only have I been too nauseous to prepare meals on some occasions when others weren't there to cook, we've also found ourselves out and about several times now with little but french fries and smoothies (NOT even organic, ugh!) to eat. Am I the only one who would really appreciate restaurants offering more beans and cooked vegetables? You don't even have to put it on the kid's menu, because, let's face it, if a kid's menu did not include gluten and copious amounts of processed cheese on literally every item then it wouldn't be American would it? (Insert sarcasm here.)

We've also finally faced the situation I knew was coming: birthday party cupcakes. Rory and I have always taken the firm stance that we would not raise our children with deprivation. If they really want the cupcake, then, well, let them eat cake (and I mean that to no way reflect Marie's issues...). Our thought is that as long as we keep sugar out of the house (that's right--you won't find white granules of anything other than salt in our kitchen), we can feel free to allow our children (love being able to say the plural now!) to sample various other cuisines (AKA junk).

So as I was saying, this last weekend we went to a friend's birthday party and this was the first time Dia saw her friend's hands and mouth covered in blue icing where she turned to me to say, "Try?" and nod her head. Big blue eyes wide and innocent. Please, mama? For me, too? Oh man, did they have to put the blue icing? Electric blue no less. But I knew this day was coming.

And I tried to dodge it. "Oh, D. That food hurts our tummies. How about some more oranges?"

She complied and dug into more fruit. Until we went to say goodbye and I looked over just as she placed a whole handful of some other child's cupcake into her mouth. Again wide-eyed and still mostly innocent.

I instantly grabbed a cupcake for her, put it on a plate and we sat together while she "tried" her cupcake. She wasn't crazy about it or especially thrilled. I think she really did just want to try it. And I'll be honest, the minute she abandoned it, I tossed it. In my defense, it was also nap time and I knew her first strong dose of sugar right before sleepy time may not be helpful.

She didn't eat much but I instantly knew I had to get water and veggies in that girl, pronto! If sugar is the Wicked Witch of the West, I knew water and whole healthful foods would be her tornado.

And the easiest way to get veggies in a kid is to add them to pasta. Too tired to stop at the store or cook too much, I scoured my mom's fridge for anything that would blend well into sauce, which, if you don't already know is everything. I especially wanted the nutrient rich spinach but found zucchini. High in vitamins A and C, not to mention magnesium, potassium and manganese, zucchini is a great summer food to get in our kids' bodies. And this sauce is completely free of cans, packaged foods (my mom makes her own sundried tomatoes but you can buy them in the store, too) and sugar. It's also delicious and clearly not just for the kids...but they will love it.

Here's how I made her sauce (which she ate two bowls of the first day alone!):


Summer Zucchini Tomato Sauce
Serves 4

4 fresh organic medium tomatoes (any variety will work, but I recommend heirloom), diced
5 sundried tomatoes
2 slices yellow onion, diced
4 garlic cloves pressed
1 zucchini, shredded
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons oregano (*more or less to taste)
2 tablespoons Italian seasonings (*more or less to taste)
Salt to taste (I prefer Himalayan pink salt--it's pricey but so nutrient-rich that you don't need much to flavor your food. It lasts forever and with the summer heat I like adding nutrient-rich salt to our diet.)
Fresh basil, oregano or any other vegetable you have on hand (shredded spinach, carrots, squash, etc.) all work wonders, but I was just going with what was available.

*I find that seasonings can be very personal, so feel free to start out small and add more as you taste it. I have a hard time measuring because I'll keep adding while I taste until I just love it.

I start out my sauce as I start most everything I cook: by heating olive oil over medium heat and sauteing the onion and garlic until the onion begins to look transparent. (I dice the tomatoes and shred the zucchini while I wait.) Then add tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, zucchini and spices (except salt). Cover pot and let simmer about 30 minutes to an hour, stirring regularly. You may need to add more oil at this point if it looks like it's getting dry. I don't add water or any extra liquid, though, because the tomatoes and zucchini are so water-dense that it complements the sauce very well. I add the salt very last so that I don't add too much. Feel free to shorten or lengthen the simmering time depending on your style of sauce--a longer simmering time yields a more liquid-like sauce while the shorter time results in a thicker, chunkier sauce. Like I said before, I made this while Dia napped so start to finish it took less then an hour or so. Really, there is no right way with this stuff just go by what looks and tastes the best. (Sorry, type-A-ers. I cook to taste, not to recipe.)

Add to organic brown rice pasta (or any other kind of pasta you like) and top with organic sheep's Parmesan cheese. That's our preferred method, anyway, but you can also use this for lasagna or anywhere else you like marinara sauce.


Enjoy!

You Must Really Love Jesus

There are some things you just can't know about a person until you marry them. Beyond brands of toothpaste and cooking/cleaning habits, there is a lot that reveals itself bit by bit as you spend your days attached to someone else. There are also traits that continue to grow and develop and hopefully through much prayer they bring the best out of both of you.

Today is a Gratitude Monday (remember how I posted about this like once before? Well, it's still a big part of my life even though I haven't been faithful to blog about it.). All I can think about when I examine my life with a grateful heart these days is my husband. I make no pretense about having a perfect or even easy marriage. I cannot even begin to exaggerate or make something out of nothing. But when you marry a good man, well, you marry well. You marry right. And you set yourself up for a life of joy.

When I met Rory at the ripe ol' age of ten (yes, ten years old...fresh out of fourth grade!), he was many things: funny, fun, friendly, sold-out for Jesus, funny, fun, friendly, really funny, addicted to candy and amazingly caring with his sisters and mom (and soon my sisters and my mom as well). Hard-working wasn't the first phrase that came to mind, though. In fact, my parents did not approve of us getting engaged (we were such rebels!) until Rory could have more time to prove his work ethic and ability to provide for a family (they were smart and probably right, but we all admit that us getting married was one of the greatest things we've ever done).

I've also never really been the damsel in distress kind of girl, either. Back then I couldn't imagine ever needing a man to provide for me.

Fast forward eighteen years, one daughter, one baby on the way and two houses later and my husband is the poster man for studly.

I grew up with a workaholic father and think my heart grew up needing lots more love and attention than I received. Rory definitely filled that void. But as I've been so faithfully loved and cared for, I've found myself needing so much strength and hard work from Rory, too. And I can't tell you how he has delivered. I can't tell you what it does for this wife's heart and soul to so fully rest in the strong hands of the same man who cuddles me.

When we bought our new house (Talk about grateful!!! We are crazy for our new home and could honestly probably retire in it it's so perfect for us.), we also found out we were pregnant. And I'm one of those paranoid mamas who won't go near fresh paint or a construction zone due to the chemicals and toxicity levels. That left two houses to be renovated by one man.

Can I tell you that when renters come to look at our old house every single one has the same things to say, "Wow. This is the nicest house we've seen." That would be the work of studly man right there.

And can I tell you how amazing our new home is looking? It does not even resemble the structure we bought. Again, every single ounce of credit goes to the man who not only wakes up at 5 (or earlier) every morning to run his own business, but also comes home everyday to spend at least an hour or so with his "Blondies" as he likes to call Dia and me and then goes back out to work on our house. He spends his weekends there, his nights, his holidays, you name it. I could never have known when we got engaged at 21 that I would so respect a man with such amazing work ethic.

But he hasn't just worked. He also texts like crazy so I always know what's going on and just what he's thinking about. (I love getting inside his head and feeling close to every little detail!) He has taken a night or two off to take me to the movies or come home early if I'm especially morning sick (aka all-day and night sick). He regularly comes home to poopy diapers that I couldn't stomach to clean (still using cloth!), stops to pray and figure out the next discipline strategy (he listens to an amazing child-rearing CD while he drives around town) and brought me cash every day when I lost my ATM card. He calls us, takes Dia out, and generally stays intimately connected with the two girls who could not live without him. To say he's amazing is not only horribly cliche but ridiculously understated. I can't tell you how many times I've cried just because in the midst of so much stress, so much chaos, he is still so so kind. So good. So fun. So funny. He's still that delightful boy I met almost two decades ago, but now he's all grown up and so...wonderful. Strong. Such a warrior.

In the midst of this he's had some doozies at work. Some situations that could have easily knocked him down. He came home after one especially hard day and said that after a few choice events had taken place, his right-hand man turned to him and said, "Man, you must really love Jesus. I don't think I'd have handled that so well."

You must really love Jesus.

Yes, he does. I know this. I live this. If my husband is any testament to the power of anything, it's Jesus. And I love Jesus and know Him so much better just because of knowing my husband. I believe a lot of men face crowds and auditoriums and preach about godliness. My husband comes home on Wednesday at 10pm after a ten-hour work day and several more hours sanding floors and peeling laminate and hugs me. Talks with me in bed about the stresses of MY day. My simple little existence of trying not to vomit and keeping Dia alive and happy. I want nothing more than to shower him with every ounce of everything I have. He gives me so much that all I have is more to give him. And I know that's exactly what Jesus talks about and is about.

He is my stud and my hero and today I'm grateful that I got to meet him so young and grow up with him so well.

For those that have read this blog for a significant amount of time, you know how we have struggled. How many times I have been broken and hopeless for our marriage. But this, our seventh year, is confirmation and tangible proof that staying and fighting for what's right and holy IS right and holy. And so richly worth it.

Thank You, Jesus for knowing exactly what I needed and putting it in such a great package. I love my husband.

Counting my way to 1,000 gifts....

36. Four letter words: love, work, hard, stud.
37. Texting. Seriously it may be ruining traditional communication, but I love being able to send messages/pictures to my husband.
38. Family
39. Extended family who make room for us in spare bedrooms, spare couches and even the floor.
40. Helping hands of family who come even just for a day (thank you, Luke and Rachel!) or everyday (that's you, Dad!!!) or most days (Sonja, you're diehard!), and those who help in other ways, too like entertaining D.
41. Being silly and finding joy even in chaos (Dia put on Papa's boxers--I wear them to bed so she wanted to give them a try. P.S. you can somewhat pick out our current living condition from the background in the pic...a family of 3 in one bedroom!)



42. My sweet girl who always has the funnest ideas!
43. Still sleeping in our family bed....D likes to either put her arms around me to fall asleep or put a pillow over her head and no one touch her. Either way, we are tickled with her!



44. A husband who delights in food as much as I do and relishes bringing me crazy meals that sound good.
45. My baby bump. It's here earlier than with D... and we already love you, baby!
46. My big girl who points to the belly bump, grins and says, "Baby!"
47. Stroller Strides instructor Kelly who took me from knee-injured and weak to being able to drop and give her twenty in a few weeks time. Not to mention 3 inches off of my waist and legs...ok, this was pre-pregnancy. Ha ha.
48. Sisters who love my babies like I do.
49. Getting jiggy with the music man at the splash pad.



50. Our beautiful new home. I call it "Grandparents Central" because we are literally 5 minutes from my mom and 7 minutes from my in-laws. You best all better be visiting!
51. A husband who's hunkier today than the day we married

A Baby Who Needs YOU

A sweet precious little six-month old girl, Daisy Belle, was stung last week by a scorpion. You can read the whole story here, but, in short, she stopped breathing and was air-evacced to the UMC in Tucson. It has been a horrendous experience for her, her parents and family and she is just now recovering.

The family was 9 days away from their new health insurance kicking in when this all took place. Please, if you have a moment, click here and help them out. Please pray and if you can help financially in any way, I know they really do need it.

Why, Hello There!

I'll be honest with you: I have lots of good excuses for not blogging. Lots! But I'll let the pictures do the talking for today...

As you can see, we are now dressing ourself. We like to layer.

Although it was months ago, we celebrated Passover as a family. It's one of my favorite holidays of the year and this year was very special doing it at our house and personally preparing all the specialties (roasted lamb shank, anyone?). Dia helped with the delicious haroshet.

We may very well be the corniest family on the planet! But we love each other. Lots of family nights out...although, not sure why Dia looks like we've tortured her.....I promise she had fun!

Dia loves Anthropologie! She relaxed while I tried on clothes. She also managed to bite into a $45 bar of soap...but if you happen to come across that bar in the store, I'll deny it!

We have also been ridiculously blessed with amazing neighbors. I can't tell you how wonderful it is to be able to just walk across the street and ring the bell for friends to come play. Dia and our neighbor Scarlett became best of friends (even fought like sisters!) and we have loved getting to know their whole family.

We've also been busy with Stroller Strides. It's a fabulous mommy workout where you bring the kids (in the stroller). Dia not only loves the other kids, but she also loves to workout herself. She has been known to randomly drop and do push-ups, squats and lunges. Here I came into her room to find her using the dog leash as a resistance band and doing bicep curls! Talk about "children see, children do." Dia is my number one best workout buddy!

Just too cute not to share. I was in the kitchen when I kept hearing her call my name, but I couldn't find her. Hee hee.

And when Dia hit eighteen months, she and Papa dressed up for a nice dinner out.

He sent me this shot from dinner....they held hands while they ate. :)

And ordered extra olives. D's personal favorite food.

We've also made good use of the top deck at the Deer Valley Airport. It's so fun to watch the planes and even helicopters.

More Papa and Dia dates....

And then one day we were reading this favorite Dr. Suess when Dia stopped me to look closer at this illustration. She tends to find things to focus on in the books and will literally just analyze every little thing on the page. After a few minutes of staring intently at this image, she said, "DD Mama eat." Ha ha!

Proof that while we yes, do eat together, we don't look exactly like those Suess characters.

Dressing up with our amazing play silks. Thank you so much, Heather!

And now for the big news: WE'RE MOVING!

Grammy came to help pack and show Dia how a bookcase is really a fishing boat and painting stir sticks are the perfect fishing rods.

And as for those amazing neighbors, well, they threw us a farewell block party!

Can you believe it? They literally are the world's best neighbors and Rory and I honestly reconsidered moving just because we didn't want to leave our friends!

These are the neighbor kids Dia considers family. We miss you guys!

The party was complete with an old-fashioned popcorn stand

And of course, fireworks a la Rory.

And since we had renovations to do at our old house in order to attract some great renters as well as some major updates to do on our new home, we moved in with Oma and Opa six weeks ago and basically have taken over their formerly lovely (and quiet) home.

Which means we pretty much spend every day either at Oma or Grandma's house. Dia has especially enjoyed her all-access pass to her auntie's jewelry, make-up and hair accessories...

Not to mention quality bonding time...

Delicious home-cooked meals

And spending lunch breaks with Opa.

Oma and Dia are master zoo builders/keepers. (Here it was nap time at the zoo.)

Grandpa knows how to build the best towers!

FYI, Dia loves jalapeno potato chips. These things are SPICY but Dia literally licked the jalapeno powder from the bottom of the bag...ok, so maybe not all of our food has been healthy or home-cooked.

And even though all her toys are in boxes in the garage, she has really shown me the power of her own imagination. All on her own she turned a few boxes and some kitchen appliances into her own kitchen and often makes me tea. :)

We've also logged many hours at the local splash pad

And even the local Summer Movie program. Last week Dia sat through a movie for the first time in the theater! "How To Train Your Pet Dragon" now owns the title of her first in-theater movie! She's crazy for dinosaurs and while she has no idea what a dragon is per se, we told her they were flying dinosaurs and she was hooked!

And to save the very best news for last....I'm also 11 weeks pregnant!

Horrendously sick and exhausted, it's been a rough few months. We could not be more grateful to have both my and Rory's family supporting and literally housing us as we transition into our bigger home with our expanding family. They feed us, entertain us, help us get our car out of the shop (that was a fun time, ha ha), help us re-surface our floors (DAD.....you are amazing), paint, pack, clean and so much more. I have never felt more blessed than to sit down at Father's Day not only with my amazing husband but also for the both of us to be able to look down both sides of a long table and see two families who so truly love us and our daughter.

We are blessed!