Fall Lovin'

We Copelands are known for loving the fall.

The crisp autumn weather is a breath of fresh air after enduring the summer's heat.

Colorful trees line the streets and saturate our parks with their beauty.

The blend of vanilla, fruit and various spices fill my home and make it heartwarming and mouthwatering.

Chili and cinnamon rolls!

The few weeks where Jayhawk basketball and football overlap.

Not to mention that all of my sweeties were born within a month of the onset of fall-- making my home feel even warmer.

I don't even care anymore that I'm constantly made fun of for buying fall scented candles in early August. Yes, I really do that. Oh, and I have an embarassing amount of fall decorations that I usually set out. However, they are sitting in my basement. What can I say, I just haven't had time to put them out this year!

One of my most favorite fall days ever was last Tuesday. Matt was still off for paternity leave and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. There was enough of a chill in the air to wear a jacket, yet the sun still warmed every inch of my skin. All 5 of us had a decent amount of sleep the night before- so our spirits were high. And with the alignment of the weather and our energy that day an imprompteau trip to the park was a must.

Kenli hit the swings and Keira followed her sisiter.



Then Daddy wanted to take them on the merry-go-round.

So off they went while Kaelyn and I stayed behind to take pictures.



This was Kaelyn's first outing.




After multiple visits to the slide everyone was hungry and we ended the night with a mexican feast at Taco Villa.






Truly an awesome day!

The New Babe

As I'm sure anyone who reads my blog knows, we have recently welcomed Kaelyn to our family.

She is such a sweet bundle of joy who lights up our day (and nights). She is a nice and quiet baby for the most part. She really only fusses when she wants to eat. I hope she keeps her calm demeanor throughout her life. God knows she needs it to survive as a third child in this family full of firecrackers- I.E. Kenli and Keira.

She has developed a pattern for being an "easy" baby. As far as pregnancy goes, hers was rather easy. My labor was fairly easy-- only about 2 hours of what I consider severe pain and about 5 of moderate pain. I'm not even sure if the one push I gave to bring her into the world would count as a "real" push. Even the last two weeks have gone smoothly. The bumps in the road we've experienced have been provided by her two sisters. But who can blame them- they are trying their best to handle such a big, life-altering change. Kaelyn, on the other hand, rarely cries and has to be brought out of her sleep in order to eat. I think if it was up to her, she'd only need to eat every 4-5 hours.

And I can't forget my favorite thing about her- she's a cuddler. She absolutely loves to snuggle, and I love it.

At night while I'm lying there mulling over child-rearing issues and trying to remember which bills I need to pay soon, I always find a moment to thank God for my many blessings. I am constantly reminded by my surroundings that life is a precious and beautiful gift. And it truly is a miracle.

ONE special year

Yep, it's time to celebrate another Copeland birthday. Miss KG is turning 1. Happy Birthday you precious girl.

I have enjoyed getting to know you everyday this past year. You have taught me so much more about motherhood than I ever knew was possible. Yes, your sister introduced me to motherhood, but you made me feel even more like a mom. I learned how to work with a colicky baby to find just the "right" position. I learned that girls, too, can be climbers. I learned just how attached some babies can be to the baba. But most importantly, I learned that everytime a new baby is brought into this family, I grow another heart to love her with. How lucky I am to have you!

I remember the moment I found out you were on the way. I loved you instantly.

I remember the moment I first held you and looked into your eyes. I fell even deeper in love.

I remember your first smile when you saw my face. You melted my heart.

The first time you rolled over, said mama, sat up, army crawled, crawled-- I hold those moments close to my heart.

Recently, your first steps, made me feel so proud.

Your daddy and I are so proud and elated to have shared these moments with you. We can only look forward to sharing many more moments with you. Good or bad, easy or hard, we will always love you and be there for you, sweet girl.

My Baby is Growing Up!

This weekend we celebrated my big girl's 2nd birthday!

Just 24 months ago, my husband and I were in the hospital anticipating the birth of our first daughter. We had no idea what she looked like, or what her personality would be like-- we only knew she was a girl. Now, she has definitely let us know what she is like.

Kenli- newbie

She's a beauty, with shinning red hair, pretty porcelain skin, and big brown eyes. Her smile lights up any room and warms the heart of everyone she's around. From the day she was born, she has drawn people in. You can't help but look at her and smile. There's just something simple, magical, and beautiful about her that I can't quite put into words.

Kenli- one-year old

As far as personality goes- she's got it all. She is funnier than any professional comedian. Her intelligence is beyond a 2 year old-- her emotional intelligence is superb! Her heart is as big as her grin. While she likes to cuddle, she also excels at taking care of sissy and anybody else who needs taking care of. She likes to pretend play- cooking and playing "mommy" are her favorites. She's kind, honest, and lovable. Dogs and cats are her best friends. She's also a good helper. In her world, juice is better than milk; outside is better than inside; dancing is better than sitting, and chicken is better than... well, anything else.

Kenli- 16 months

This sweet, precious and innocent child is the one who made me a mother-- the best and most important job I've ever had. I hope that someday, she can feel the love for her child or children like I feel for her and her sisters. There is nothing greater than the love between a parent and a child. Thank you, Kenli, for letting me in on this little secret!

Kenli- two-years old

Kenli, I love you and I have cherished the past two years more than any other time in my life. I love learning about you everyday, and I anticipate getting to know the wonderful young woman you will become.

Happy Birthday to my Big Girl, Kenli!

Funny Lady

Now that my big girl is about to turn two, she has become very curious and repeats much of what she hears. One afternoon, she was bound and determined to take a shower with me. "What," I thought, "I've never seen this behavior before." The one tme I was actually trying to save a few minutes by having her take a shower with me, she grudgingly sat in my arms for 1 minute while I tried to wash her squirmy, wet little body. After this adventure, I thought "no more." That is until just the other day when she just had to be in there with me.

So, we step into the shower. She stands there not knowing what to do, and decides to point to her nose, and as I always say, "yes, that's your nose." Points to her ears, "yes, those are your ears." You see, this is one of her favorite games.

As we continue, she points to her chest. I say, "those are your boobies." Then I proceed to tell her that Daddy, baby sissy, and mommy have boobies too. She laughs. Then for the kicker- she points to her chest and says,"Toys?" But the best part had to be that inquisitive, yet reassuring look she had on her face. Like she was saying, "these are toys, right mom?"

Yes, right then and there, I completely lost it. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.

Just a reminder

Recently I was forwarded this email about small things in life one can appreciate, and I just really enjoy it. I think it's healthy to take just a few minutes to sit down and read this list. I don't know the exact feelings (if any) that will hit you, but I feel better and a little refreshed after reading these 44 positive things in life. They are simple pleasures, but they do lift my spirits.

In addition to the list below, I'm going to have to add a few myself here.

My mother's green beans, chocolate pudding, fudge.
My grandmother's homemade chicken and noodle soup, rice krispie cookies.
My husband's strawberry smoothie, guacamole.
My sister's chocolate cake.
Heidi's cornbread, guacamole.
Gma's homemade ice cream.
Sharyl's beans.
Amy's cherry mashes.
(yes, there's more than food)!

Meeting and holding my newborn child for the first time.

Doing any one of my favorite hobbies.

Good wine and cheese.

Watching a student's face when they have an "ah-ha" moment.

Going to bed each night knowing that I have so much to be thankful for.

Beautiful sunsets.

My morning coffee with whole grain CHOCOLATE muffins.

Living close to so much family.

Reaching the point in adulthood when I can really appreciate where I come from.

Cooking with a new recipe that soon turns into a family favorite.

Baking cookies with my babies "helping" me.

Loving someone despite any of their "faults."

Viewing a piece of art or reading something that really hits you.

The first day after winter that it really feels like spring.

The first day after summer that really feels like fall.

Autumn. Enough said.

Decorating for the holidays.

Down comforters and clean sheets.

Target. Enough said.

The mall... no wait, Chick f' la.

Eating sweet and salty foods together.

Guacaqueso from Lupita's

My two-year old's drawings.

My 10-month old's proud looks when she figures out something new.

Kicks from the baby still growing.

Sears and Walgreens for providing me with pictures to treasure.

Watching my young children play and laugh together.

Healthy, frozen meals- especially veggies.

Hearing rain hit the roof.

Candles.

Saturday morning trips to Walmart with my husband.

The feeling I get when I sit down after just cleaning the house for hours upon hours.

Old cartoons like The Flintstones, Yogi, Tom and Jerry, The Jetsons, Smurfs.

Oh, and how could I forget, stylish maternity clothes. ha ha!

Now that I have added some, ok, TONS of my own appreciations, here are the ones from the email. After reading through them, think about what small things in life matter to you. Add them by commenting or continue this list with your own email or blog.

1. Falling in love.

2. Laughing so hard your face hurts.

3. A hot shower.

4. No lines at the supermarket.

5. A special glance.

6. Getting mail.

7. Taking a drive on a pretty road.

8. Hearing your favorite song on the radio.

9. Lying in bed listening to the rain outside.

10. Hot towels fresh out of the dryer.

11. Chocolate milkshake (vanilla or strawberry ).

12. A bubble bath.

13. Giggling.

14. A good conversation.

15. The beach.

16. Finding a 20 dollar bill in your coat from last winter.

17. Laughing at yourself.

18. Looking into their eyes and knowing they love you

19. Midnight phone calls that last for hours.

20. Running through sprinklers.

21. Laughing for absolutely no reason at all.

22. Having someone tell you that you're beautiful.

23. Laughing at an inside joke with friends.

24. Accidentally overhearing someone say something nice about you.

25. Waking up and realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep.

26. Your first kiss (the very first).

27. Making new friends or spending time with old ones.

28. Playing with a new puppy.

29. Having someone play with your hair.

30. Sweet dreams.

31. Hot chocolate.

32. Road trips with friends.

33. Swinging on swings.

34. Making eye contact with a cute stranger.

35. Making chocolate chip cookies.

36. Having your friends send you homemade cookies.

37. Holding hands with someone you care about.

38. Running into an old friend and realizing that some things (good or bad) never change.

39. Watching the expression on someone's face as they open a much desired present from you.

40. Watching the sunrise.

41. Getting out of bed every morning and being grateful for another beautiful day.

42. Knowing that somebody misses you.

43. Getting a hug from someone you care about deeply.

44. Knowing you've done the right thing, no matter what other people think.

Warning: the following may offend you... for one reason or another!

The Today Show did a story this morning about New York City public hospitals taking away free samples of formula. No, this isn't budget cuts-- this is people sticking their know-it-all noses into a woman's personal choice issue. New York wants to triple its 24% breastfeeding rate by the year 2010. In order to persuade new moms to breastfeed, they are no longer providing free formula samples in the gift bag sent home with women who have just given birth. "Instead, the new mothers will each be given a breast-milk bottle cooler, disposable nursing pads, breastfeeding tips and a baby T-shirt with the slogan “I Eat at Mom’s” emblazoned on the front. Breastfeeding coaches will accompany the mothers at bedside “to help initiate breastfeeding within one hour of delivery.”

I'm sick and tired of people, the government in particular, trying to decide for the general female population what is right for their bodies and life. As a mother of three, I can proudly say that I want to do what is right for my baby- and most mother's do. What is "right" in life, isn't always easy- and I know many mothers who feel that way about breastfeeding.

The problems with this "solution" to encourage breastfeeding are endless. Breastfeeding is different for every baby and every mother. Why does anybody think that they can throw a bandage over the issue and call it good?

Some women simply don't produce enough milk. Some babies are born with jaundice and need formula supplements. Some mothers need or want to return to work where breastfeeding or pumping can be difficult. Some mothers are completely uncomfortable with the idea of breastfeeding, and the list goes on and on. But my point is-- every situation is different and no one should try to persuade a new mother one way or another. Once a woman enters motherhood, she is inundated with powerful, overwhelming feelings of worry, guilt, fear, and the unknown. Why exaggerate these burdens of new mothers when they could be calmed by educating them?

Why not educate women on their choices instead of dictating what to choose? What if new mothers were given pamphlets about breastfeeding that include not only the benefits, but also the challenges? As many of us know, breast feeding often requires a support system. Why not give the new father or the new mom's support person a pamphlet about ways to assist and ease the emotional roller coaster of breastfeeding? Additionally, the mother and support person could be given information about the different formulas that are on the market, even samples of some. Oh no, what would happen if new moms were actually educated and could make an informed decision for themselves.

And all of this campaigning for promoting infant's health is coming from one of the most polluted cities in the nation. "A little ironic, dontcha think?"

And by the way, here are the pictures of two incredibly healthy children who couldn't breastfeed past 3.5 months for two different reasons.





Forced to stop by insufficient supply.





Forced to stop due to milk allergy. This one had to be put on a specific formula.

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?sec=health&res=9802E1DC1331F930A25755C0A9609C8B63

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/01/nyregion/01mbrfs-breastfeed.html?ex=1343620800&en=b70d394d5cf23f14&ei=5088&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss

Birthday

The quarter-century mark has come and gone. And as my husband so lovingly pointed out the other day, I'm now in my 26th year of life. Thanks, hon! Like I needed that reminder.

When you're a mom, birthdays really do lose the excitement and zest they had during childhood-no parties or sleepovers where you can talk about your future kids' names, or what your husband will be like. Cake is now something you dream of having but don't want to waste any calories eating a 13x9 hunk of chocolate heaven. And what happened to the time I used to have for thinking of the coolest gift I just had to have? Gone, Gone, Gone.

There is an upside, however. Sure, the enthusiasm that once consumed me the entire month before the big day ceases to exist in the adult world. But now, I look forward to enjoying a nice dinner with my family. Especially family I don't get to see everyday. And the addition of my babies makes the day even sweeter. And while I don't exactly want a sleepover party, it is nice to talk to old friends and gab about their children's newest abilities or where a great sale is currently taking place. As far as cake goes, I wish I could just have about four pieces. I could totally make that last a week. But last time I checked, there are no cake pans that small. I do still receive lovely gifts and cards. One of my favorite gifts has to be gift cards since I love shopping and I never can think of something I need/want. But then there are those gifts that mean even more- - the health of my family and friends, a roof over my family's head, a loving husband, beautiful babies (inside and out), food on the table, and family and friends to love. I'm so lucky to have another year to celebrate!

Talkin' 'bout my g-g-generation

Throughout my years here on earth, I've always been fascinated with people and how society groups them into generations. I'e heard about the Greatest Generation, the Baby Boomers, Gen. X and even Gen. Y. Generations are great in the sense that it gives us all a way to relate to one another. They provide us with a cohort to identify with. We tend to view politics and society through similar lenses. We resemble each other in our opinions of the world and the way we interact with it. It gives everyone a sense of belonging and we tend to take pride in our generation.

The Baby Boomers are in the limelight now, as they are reaching retirement age. I can feel the pride of this generation as I've been forwarded emails, heard songs and seen commercials about or targeted toward the Baby Boomer generation. They have pride in the fact that they're tough, original, and creative. Yes, they fought in the Vietnam War, lead the civil right's movement, and helped establish women's lib-- and everyone one of them I've talked to are pretty dang proud of all they've accomplished. So I'm left questioning what generation I belong to. Who else feels the burdens and advantages of living as a twenty-somthing in this day and age?

I grew up during the prime of the often-talked-about Gen X, yet I did not relate to them completely, and I didn't know where I fit in. This has bothered me for years. When I talk to people about my inability to link myself to a specific generation, they always insist that I'm a Millennial, a Gen Y, or part of the MTV generation. But I've never been satisfied with that answer. How can I have similar opinions of the world as somebody who grew up with the internet, cell phones, no Berlin Wall, or someone who doesn't remember the good Saturday Morning Cartoons? I admit that some of our worlds overlap, but I tend to identify more with Gen X than the afore stated generations. But they won't accept me either. But let me tell about the relief I felt when I found that I'm part of an overlap in years between two generations. And guess what, it happens every 20 years or so.

I've now learned that the people born in the late 30's early 40's, late 50's early 60's, and late 70's early 80's are all their own little generations. They aren't part of the Baby Boomers or Gen X, or any other generation for that matter. They are their own group. Sure, some outsiders may view them as "lost generations," but I have to disagree. I now feel like I've been found.

Now, I have a cohort-- a group of people born from about 1976-1983, whose thinking and life experiences mirror my own. This generation is sometimes identified as "XY." I personally think that "they" (whoever "they" is) could come up with a more profound name than that, but it's fine for now. I'm just happy to have a home.

It's comforting to know that I'm not lost after all. There are other people who were born into "Reganonmics," remember playing Super Mario Bros on the first Nintendo game system, and carried around their (origianl) Strawberry Shortcake doll. So, my fellow overlappers from '76-'83, make your voices heard. When someone tells you you're neither "X" or "Y", tell them they're right. You are your own generation with a home somewhere between Grunge and the Internet-- and that's just fine.

Unexpected Perks

As of this week, I am now officially working outside of the home. I've recently been hired to write tours at our local history museum. It sounds a lot easier than it actually is-- at least that's what I've come to find out so far.

This is the first time I've been away from my sweet babies for most of the day. Luckily, we have family who is so loving and willing to help us by watching our cuties while we're off in what I now refer to as the "other working world."

The "other" world is not exactly as I thought it'd be. Before starting this job, I was concerned about a plethora of issues I'd be faced with: missing the girlies, not liking someone I had to work with, being frustrated with time constraints, etc. But I have to tell ya, so far so good! I enjoy everyone I work with, the hours are flexible, time isn't as big of an issue as I thought, and most importantly I miss the girls, but it's not too hard to handle (for now).

When I found out I was hired, I had less than 24 hours to prepare for my new lifestyle, thus I didn't dwell too much on the fact that my babes would be out of my care for the next few months-- though I was still concerned that I'd be miserable without them by my side all day.

HOWEVER...

At least for now, I'm actually enjoying the "other" world. It probably helps that I love my work, but in addition to this perk I have discovered what it's like to go to the bathroom or eat whenever I want or need to. (This isn't even a perk I experienced while teaching.) And though I'm faced with new responsibilities and the stress of a new job, I can't help but feel calmer than I have in a long time.

I believe I was ready to take on a new challenge. Not that I have conquered parenting by any means, but I could tell that I was becoming "grouchy" mom and that I needed a healthy change. I think almost anyone would like to try something new once in a while, if not for any other reason than to get out of the rut of their same old routine. To tell you the truth, I'm more relaxed and wwwwwaaaaaayyyyy less frustrated with my day now that I have an opportunity to experience work outside the home. Don't misunderstand me, I miss my babies more and more each hour that I'm away from them, but I am loving the break from home and my new adventure at the museum. Honestly though, I'm sure my opinion would change if this job was permanent and not temporary. The fact that I can reunite with my children as a stay-at-home mom once summer is over, is the best perk of the "other" side. And I must say that I feel like one of luckiest people alive to be able to stay at home with my children, yet also try my hand at work outside of the home and feel so rewarded by both experiences.

P.S. These faces help me get through my day!

Gone is the Surprise

Well, one of the best milestones in pregnancy has arrived for me-- the "halfway" mark. Yes, 20 weeks of back pain, weight gain, oily skin, nausea, and sleepiness have all led up to one of the most exciting moments in pregnancy. Just last week we had our sonogram-- and for those of you who don't know about the 20 week sonogram, it's the one where the sex may be revealed.

If you have been reading my posts, you'll recall my desire to have a "delivery room surprise." I really wanted to wait until the baby was born to know what I was having. I figured that I would look at the ultrasound screen to try and decipher on my own what the baby's gender is, but I still would not know for sure. But then this child turned out to be a bit different from our others.

I believed that I would have somewhat of a difficult time trying to guess what sex the little one in my tummy is. In my past pregnancies at the 20 week sono, my girls had their legs crossed, refusing to expose their gender. It always took somewhere around 10-20 mins of pushing on my belly to get them to move into a favorable position so that the specialist could tell us what we were having-- but this child had its own idea. As soon as the scanner went over the baby's lower half, we could easily see that the legs were open. We immediately saw the familiar three little lines and asked if we were really seeing what we thought we were seeing. "Do you really want to know?" she asked. We said, "it's a girl isn't it?" She answered with the affirmative. It's a girl.

A "delivery room surprise" will just have to wait.

MOTHERHOOD

During the past few months, some of my friends and family were welcomed into the adventure of a lifetime—motherhood. They had their first babies—you know, the baby that changes your entire life. There is an old adage, “Having a baby changes everything,” and it is completely true. One night I was trying so desperately to explain to my friend just exactly what that phrase meant. But I soon realized I couldn’t quite sum it up into a few words or even sentences. How do you cram everything about life into a comforting explanation of the biggest change known to humankind? You just don’t, but I have attempted to examine a few areas of my life that have drastically changed since having my sweet babies. And I skipped some of the obvious ones like sleep!

THEN:
Selflessness- I couldn’t imagine ever being selfless enough to take complete care of another human being. That just sounded like too much work, especially more than I wanted.

Weekends- To envision spending my weekends in any other manner than hanging out with friends and doing as I please was not heard of. The weekend was my time to relax and have fun going out to eat, see a movie, or dance.

Passions- I enjoyed reading, writing, drawing, running, listening to music, and hiking. I was always looking to find other interests as well—after all, I did have the time to do so.

Cooking- I didn’t mind cooking, but I didn’t have much time for it. Needless to say, most of my meals came in a box from the freezer. Can anyone say “Lean Cuisine?”

Laundry- was a four-letter word I avoided like the plague. I often bought more clothes to keep from doing it.

Free-time- I had some free time in between jobs, school, and extra-curricular activities. I mostly spent it doing whatever I wanted, usually enjoying one of my hobbies.

Minivans- I thought boring soccer moms were the only ones who drove minivans, or would even consider owning one. Who wants a car-load of kids screaming and all of their sports equipment? Not me!

Bodily Fluids- The idea of touching someone else’s throw-up, snot, or any other bodily fluid disgusted me to the point of becoming ill.

Money- As far as my money was concerned, I spent it on me most of the time—buying up-to-date clothes, shoes, purses and jewelry—not to mention manicures, pedicures, haircuts, and highlights.

Holidays- For the holidays, I went home to participate in family traditions started and continued by my mom. I never understood why she went to all the trouble of decorating the house or the tree. In fact, I hated decorating the tree.

Public Places- When I saw parents with young children at a restaurant, I would ask the hostess to sit me far from them. Not to be rude, but I just didn’t want to hear whining and squealing while I ate.

And even if I had kids one day, I swore I’d never wipe their face with my spit, raise my voice, or say, “because I said so.”


NOW…
it’s clear to see that my ways have changed…

Selflessness- The instant you find out you’re pregnant, you have to become less selfish for the best care of the baby—and it only continues from there. Being a mother is the most selfless thing I have ever done, and I like it that way. My children are supposed to look to me for anything they need, and I expect nothing in return—well, maybe a kiss and a hug. At least while they’re still so little.

Weekends- I can’t imagine spending much time away from my kids on the weekend. They grow so fast and I don’t want to miss a thing they do. I cherish every moment with them.

Passions- I still enjoy reading—to my babies, writing to and about my babies, and I draw about once a year now. I still run—after my toddler, listen to music—mostly nursery songs, and hike up and down my stairs to retrieve clean clothes, new diapers, and an occasional baby doll.

Cooking -is a new-found passion, but I still don’t have copious amounts of time for it. Cooking a healthy and tasty meal for my family is something I enjoy. But I also appreciate it when my husband takes a turn with it.

Laundry- is still a four-letter word that I always want to avoid. But as I’ve come to realize, it’s just better to do it and get it over with than to have mounds piled on my floors. Believe it or not, those mounds are more annoying that actually doing laundry. Additionally, I don’t have the money to go and buy everyone new clothes when I feel like skipping laundry.

Free-time- is a thing of the past. It comes after kid-time, family-time, couple-time, not to mention cleaning, laundry, sleeping and eating. I tend to take my few moments of peace while bathing because I’m usually alone—unless my 20-month old needs to make sure mommy’s okay while taking a shower.

Minivans- A minivan would be the handiest thing to own these days. With a family of four, soon to be five, I cannot think of managing without one. Oh, and I’m not a soccer mom or boring. I just have three car seats and strollers I need to lug everywhere.

Bodily Fluids- I don’t think many days pass that I don’t end up with clothes stained with spit-up, or poop wiped across my hand as I change a diaper. I’ve also been peed on, puked on, and sneezed on. Did I mention that the first time I ever held either of my children they both pooped one me? Motherhood is so glamorous.

Money- My money is spent on everyone else first, and rarely on just me. I don’t even desire to buy the newest and cutest clothes and shoes for myself, but I love buying them for my daughters. As far as the up-keep of my hair and nails… I just got my first pedicure in over seven months (they used to be monthly), and my first haircut in 6 months.

Holidays- have an even sweeter feeling because I’m helping to make nice memories for my children. My husband and I have started some new traditions, but we are carrying on and adapting many of the ones we grew up with. I, like my mom, am starting and continuing family-holiday traditions. I also obsess about decorating the house and even the tree. Sorry mom, I now see why it was so important to you for this to be a family activity.

Public Places- if I ever make it out in public with the family, I hope, pray, and cross my fingers, that no one will make a scene. If I hear the slightest cry coming on, I cringe thinking of all the eyes that are rolling because “some woman can’t stop her child from crying.” Again with the apologies, I am truly sorry to all of the women I once rolled my eyes at because their child insisted upon crying and crying.

And lastly, I have wiped my child’s face with my own spit (totally out of convenience), I have raised my voice (totally unintentional), and of course I have repeated those infamous words, “because I said so.”

The most important change, however, is how I define love. Not until I held my firstborn had I ever even comprehended what true love is. As many of you mothers reading this know, there is absolutely nothing in the world that matters more, consumes more of you, or affects everything you do than the love you have for your children. It is 110% unconditional. And just when you think your heart contains all of the emotion and love that any human could possibly experience, you have another child and feel the exact same love instantly.

Signs of the Season

The time of swimming, cookouts, and nightly walks around the block is upon us. Yes, I'm talking about summer. With some of the sunshine we've had lately, my family has been taking advantage of some sure signs of the time. For example, Matt loves to wear his Hawaiian shirts when the warm weather comes.

And speaking of those summer walks, poor little Kenli received her first matching set of scraped knees while taking a stroll around the block. The tears came from Mommy as well as Kenli!

And Kenli also likes to sneak into the garage to steal a bag of fireworks every now and then. No worries, they are the little bags that 'pop' when you throw them on the ground. She really, really, enjoys those.

The girls love to travel in the wagon. When they see it, they just have to go for a ride. Can you see it in Keira's face?

And did I mention the ice cream truck is starting to circle the block on a nightly basis? Kenli experienced her first push-up pop from the the ice cream man-- looks like she really enjoyed it. Can you tell that it was orange flavor?

I'm sure there will be many more summery treats to enjoy soon enough. But for now, we are enjoying what we have!

Gone Fishin'

This past weekend the family and I went up to Gram and Grandpa's pond to catch some catfish. This is Kenli's first experience with fishing. Though she doesn't really quite grasp what is going on, she shook her head yes when asked "Do you wanna go fishin'?" So we loaded up a pole for her and headed off to catch some catfish.

Once we arrived, I was pretty amazed at this little gal, Kenli. I originally thought that she'd want nothing to do with fishing, yet she took to Daddy's lessons rather well. She threw some bread into the pond to bring the fish up, she held onto the pole just like Daddy showed her, she even thought about touching some sticky chicken liver (the bait)but eventually turned away from that (thank God)! Although, once a fish was caught, she wanted absolutely nothing to do with it. We asked her if she wanted to touch the fish as it lay there flopping about it front of her, and she screamed "NOOOO!!!" Can you see that in the picture? What can I say, her reaction reminds me of her mother's when she went fishing once or twice as a child.

Meanwhile, Miss Keira and I just sat back and enjoyed the show.

It's a Boy...maybe

As the girls and I were enjoying the beautiful weather on our front porch this afternoon, I noticed a little white rose on our bush. This is the first one of the season in full bloom-- at least that I've seen. Yes, it was pretty, fresh, and representative of a new beginning-- all the wonderful aspects of spring, but I've never claimed to have a green thumb. So it was natural that I was instantly reminded of an old "Wise" tale.

Last year, while I was waiting out the last few weeks of my pregnancy with Keira, my neighbor (the tales namesake) noticed one single pink rose in bloom on this same bush. She suggested that the pink rose symbolized the fact that I was carrying a girl. This spring we had the same conversation while no roses were in bloom, yet. We decided that if the first rose revealed any other color than pink, I was definitely carrying a boy. So, the "Wise" tale predicts that the little one growing inside my belly is a boy. We'll just have to wait 5 1/2 months to see if we're right.

I don't really have any strong suspicions about the gender of the baby. Matt predicts a girl--just as he did with the past pregnancies. Since he's always been right, I'm kind of leaning towards girl, too-- but I'm not set on that guess. In about a month, I'll be far enough along in pregnancy (20 weeks) to determine the sex using sonogram. When we go to that sonogram appointment, I'm going to stare at that screen to look for any significant clues to determine boy or girl, but that's it. While this will satisfy my curious mind, I won't know for sure if there is blue or pink in our near future. I'm really holding on to my hopes of a delivery-room surprise.