Blog Revival

It has been nearly 8 months since my last post and, I'll be honest, I never thought I'd post again. I'm not really in to reading others' posts because I never seem to find the time (sorry to all of my wonderful blogging friends...just having an honest moment here...) and I can't really imagine why anybody would be interested in what goes on around our household. With that said....so many tiny, incredible things (well, "incredible" in the eyes of a mother) happen around this house daily that if I don't record it somewhere, I'm surely going to forget. So, here's my attempt at reviving this blog....

Since my last post we have been blessed with a new baby boy, hence the title change. With the new addition to our family, little Asher, and our "Levi Buttonfly" gloriously thrashing around in his "terrible 2s" (as everybody likes to refer to this happy state in our lives...), I'm learning more and more that it isn't only our boys that have some growing up to do. God is showing us daily (and sometimes hourly, unfortunately....) that we have so much room to grow and change as parents, spouses, and as His children. Despite the growing pains, it has been a wonderful journey so far! Hopefully with the revival of this blog, I can share all about these growing pains and, most importantly, our moments of joy as He is raising the Rollins'.

Hiatus...

Yes, it has been quite a while since my last post and, to be honest, I have enjoyed my blogging hiatus. I have my reasons, but couldn't resist posting on my growing boy.

In the past few months, Levi has been growing and learning so much. He talks nonstop and always has something very important to tell me...sometimes at a few decibels higher than what I prefer. I believe I posted, many moons ago, about our new arrival we're anxiously awaiting this spring...well, in preparations for two young children, we've made some transitions in our home and with Levi. He has been in a "big boy bed" for the past couple of months and has been paci free since September. With both of these, he has transitioned so well, which I hope is a preview to how he will do with sharing us with "Tummy" (this is how Levi answers when I ask him what the baby's name is). We also introduced the potty this summer and pull-ups and Thomas underwear this week. We'll see how quickly we progress with this....I'm thinking much, much slower! I couldn't be prouder of my "big boy," and despite my excitement with his independence and growing up, it is sort of hard to watch him change so quickly. I'm 24 weeks and the days are ticking away until Levi is a big brother. I'm so thrilled about our growing family and excited to see how God molds us as parents and changes our family throughout the years to come...I'm expecting it will be quite a ride!

PLEASE COME!!!!

Saturday night, Monkeez Brew is hosting an African Ya-Ya market to raise money for Chris and Lindy Thompson's adoption.  Please come out from 5-9pm and shop for all sorts of handmade goodies from Kenya.  There will be scarves, handbags, handmade wooden bowls and spoons, jewelry, nativity sets, aprons, children's puzzles, and more, more, MORE!!!  Monkeez Brew is also donating 10% of all sales for the entire day to Chris and Lindy, so at least come out and show your support by purchasing one of their many coffee drinks, smoothies, gelato, desserts, or sandwiches.  There will also be live music starting at 7pm, so bring the family.  We look forward to seeing you all there and raising money for my very special niece/nephew (or both!).

Have a great weekend!!!

My apologies...AGAIN....

Yes, I realize the summer has pretty much come and gone without any updates on my end.  I did make a shameful promise to myself, that I broke of course, that I would update more since I was off all summer and am now working part-time.  Honestly, having all that extra time on  my hands made me realize how I had absolutely no interest on wasting it in front of my computer, so, therefore, no updates.  My apologies....AGAIN!

I will say that Levi has been changing more and more everyday.  I have long ago decided to quit trying to keep up with what he's saying these days.  My little sponge has just been soaking up everything and I couldn't be prouder.  One, not so proud parenting moment, resulted in a newly learned little phrase..."Oh gosh!"  He overheard me saying this to my mother over the phone, and try as I may, I couldn't erase it from his growing vocabulary.  Man!!!  Levi has also developed an obsession with "iick" (music).  He becomes a bit anxious if I don't immediately turn up the volume in the car.  He has started requesting "Jesus" songs for me to sing and enjoys saying his prayers at night.  He isn't as thrilled about taking time out for blessings at mealtimes....seeing his steaming food on his plate tends to be a distraction.  Levi has also taken several trips to the potty to "pee-pee" and, on a couple of occasions, he's tried the other....which scares him a bit.  Sometimes, when his pee-pee doesn't come, he tries to encourage it by saying "c'mon pee-pee."  Believe it or not, this tactic actually works!  

Some other news in our family, which I have neglected to post, is that Levi is going to be a big brother sometime in April!  We are super excited about experiencing all of this over again....it has been a truly blessed ride so far... 

Levi after playing in my pots.  What is it they say little boys are made of?  There may be some truth to that....

Ahhhaaaa! Deep breath...

Today is my first official day of summer break.  I think I might just sit here and bask in that for a while.  Although I usually stay much busier when I'm not working, I enjoy it more because I'm operating on my clock.  There's something to say for that...we all love independence, right?  

A lot has happened since my last post...which I'm terribly ashamed that it has been so long since then.  We have moved in to our new (really, really old) house and are enjoying every minute of it. I think we're enjoying it too much.  We still have random boxes, with the most random assortment of things in them, lying around and we keep playing around in our yard and on our porch instead of finishing moving in.  I have been pretty good about purging needless stuff every year, however, we still manage to have a ridiculous amount of unnecessary things.  It was somewhat embarrassing to watch our friends move all of these ridiculous things.  Even though most things have been put in their place, I still can't put my hands on some stuff...like my perfume and our Cuckoo clock.  Hmmm, maybe they're in the same box?  Anyways, I'm sure I'll be posting more (now that I'm home for the summer - yay!) about the joys of being a homeowner and updating an 82 year old house.  

We also said our goodbyes to Chris and Lindy as they headed back to Nairobi, Kenya.  As always when they visit, I wished time had stood still.  They stayed with us, prepared meals with us, and entertained us with their stories and humor.  Levi really enjoyed entertaining his Uncle "Kssss" and Aunt "Indy."  It has been almost two weeks since they left and he still calls out their names.  I know where he is coming from, I miss them too.  Here's some pics they took while in town....

Much Apologies...

Much apologies to those who actually attempt to read my blog (mainly being my dear mother....) and have given up on me ever posting again.  As it happens so very often, I have become a bit overwhelmed with all that's happening and blogging is the least of my interests.  Between end of the year school work, purchasing a house (YAY!), resigning from my job of 4 years (yes, after making an offer on a house...am I crazy???), and welcoming home our family from Africa, I've been a tad preoccupied.  Excited, but preoccupied.  Hopefully soon, after things slow down a bit, I will be back on board the blogging train and posting pics of our precious Buttonfly.  He is changing so much and getting in to so much more....I'm lovin' it!!!

Crazy NC Weather

Living in North Carolina, we have become accustomed to some unpredictable, extreme ends of the weather spectrum (if there is such a term - probably not...).  We see these extremes especially this time of the year.  Just a couple of weeks ago, we had our greatest snowfall of the season, topping out at around 4-5 inches...then, hardly a week later, we had 80 degree temps.  What is that all about?  At least we don't have time to get the winter blahs...there's usually a breath of fresh air in between the dreary, windy, bitter days.  Ah, but spring is in the air and I love it.  I'm trying to savor every sunny day we have.  Levi loves being outside which works out great for Matt and I.  As long as sunny days are in the forecast, we'll be outside talking about every little thing and watching Levi explore the wonderful world of our patio and downtown T-ville.  How thrilling it must be for him?!  So, if any of you (who are so fortunate to live in the great metropolis of Thomasville, NC) see us out and about in "Toot-Toot," you'll know how badly we've been waiting to get out of the apartment and out of hibernation.  Also, please don't honk, I can be a bit jumpy!   

Here's Levi Buttonfly playing in his "gently used" turtle sandbox on our patio.  Quick story...I was on my way home from church one Sunday evening and there it sat on the side of the road at "Paw-Paw's Bait Shop" for $10.  I exercised my bargaining abilities a bit and haggled it down to $8.  Matt will confirm that I was overly impressed with myself and beaming obnoxiously at my great fortune!

Here's my baby trying to humor me in what was probably, for his size, knee-deep snow.  He was not amused and neither was I after a couple of minutes.  I think he's inherited his dad's love for snow.  I couldn't help but drag him out for these pictures.  Who knows when he'll see this much snow again?!

What the animals say....at least from the perspective of a 13 month old!

At the request of his aunt, we had to post Levi's latest accomplishment, his attempt at his animal sounds. It isn't his best performance, however, you get the point. Unfortunately, he hasn't heard many of these animals, he's just imitating the poor attempts of his parents. Funny what we do to entertain our children, isn't it? You can imagine how often we abuse Levi's new found interest in animal sounds for our own enjoyment. Cheap thrills, right?

Sugar Shakes

Here's a video clip of Levi and his "smash cake" at his birthday party. This is the perfect example of what happens to a baby who gets his first taste of sugar. Just to give you all a heads up, this video is a bit lengthy, so feel free to stop the clip after you see Levi's sugar shakes. I'm mainly posting this video for Uncle Chris and Aunt Linders who were present (in spirit) all the way from Kenya. We miss you both (terribly) and wished you guys could have been there in person. Love you! Enjoy!

Oh, one more thing, the cake is a monkey's head...in case you're wondering. Levi is looking at his face, but for those of you watching, it looks like a large brown mound...not exactly something you picture for a one year old's birthday...just FYI...

Snow Day #2...

Here we are with another snow day and no snow!  Just another typical North Carolina winter....strange, and apparently, unpredictable.  We had a snow day a couple of weeks ago and I forgot to post pics of Levi's first snow.  His high chair is by the window and that morning, while eating his oatmeal, he kept looking outside and talking about the snow.  After breakfast, I kept finding him straining to look out of the window at all of the strange white stuff on the ground.  I decided to bundle him up and take him for a ride in the snow on "Toot-Toot."  As you will see in the pictures below, he is a pretty laid back boy and didn't get as thrilled with the snow as I had hoped.  Oh, well, at least he's cute, right?  As ridiculous as it is that I'm home from work today, I am thankful to be spending it with Levi instead of 50 other kids.  I would never want the responsibility of calling snow days, so, whoever you are, thanks for the day off (even though i'll have to make it up eventually...)!!!

Levi and "Toot-Toot"

warming up at Monkeez Brew and checking out my boots...

rollin' down the alley...

after mom stuck my hand in the snow...

spaghetti...my favorite part of the day!

Everything

One year ago today I was in a hospital bed holding a part of me, a stranger that I knew I would fall in love with every day for the rest of my life.  Honestly, life couldn't be any sweeter.  Levi brightens my life with every smile, giggle, kiss, and, believe it or not, every diaper.  Last year, I lay in that bed trying to imagine why God decided to entrust me with with such a special little package.  My life has continued to be blessed ever since.  

This afternoon, I was flipping through his baby book and feeling pressured to fill in every blank and answer every question.  Silly, huh?  One question in particular prompted me to write this post..."What have I learned this past year?"  I'm not really sure how to answer this question.  How do you sum up a life altering change in just a few blank lines.  As those blank lines stared at me, taunting me to write some fluff, I opted to shut the book, take advantage of Levi's nap time, and snooze a little myself.  

I'm not quite sure what I've learned this year...I feel like I've had to learn EVERYTHING.  Those of you who haven't experienced it yet, after becoming a mother, I'm convinced you are issued a new brain.  Most mothers will testify that they lost brain cells after giving birth.  I definitely believe I'm more confused and forgetful than ever before, just ask my mother.  However, maybe it isn't because I lost brain cells, maybe it is just because I was given a new brain, a mother's brain.  The reason my answer to the question in Levi's baby book is "everything" is because I feel like I, with my new brain, have had to learn everything new...everything a mother needs to know.  I've learned how to tell time based off of Levi's cry...time to eat, time to nap, time for a diaper change.  I've learned that you don't actually need 8 hours of sleep to function during the day...5-6 hours will do (although this isn't my preference!).  I've learned which silly children's songs are perfect for the occasion...whether it is bathtime, bedtime, or diaper time.  I've learned how to be creative to distract a wandering, curious boy or simply to cure boredom in places that are not child friendly.  I've learned that banging your head repeatedly on a hard surface (wood floors, brick walls, or mama's head) does not always cause pain or need for worry...it is just a way to cope with the day to day stresses of being a little baby boy.  I have also learned how a smile from a bright, blue-eyed boy won't only melt the heart of his parents, but also those hurting from the pains of a sinful world.  I've learned that the giggles, screams, and silly games of an infant will wash away the stresses of work and any other complaints I selfishly dwell on.  I have found a new love for my husband as he assumes the role of father, one of the most important examples and relationships Levi will ever have.  I have found a strength in myself I never knew I had.  A strength to say "no" to temptations that may prevent me from being the best I can be for Levi.  A strength to fight against this world, our media, and all of the things I'm terrified will harm and corrupt my child.  I have discovered a growing desire in myself to not settle for mediocrity.  I want and need to be the best I can be for Levi.  I have also gained a greater appreciation and love for our Savior and the sacrifice God made for his children.  

Through much trial and error, I'm sure my new brain will continue to develop.  I just hope I won't continue to be so forgetful, absent minded, and confused.  Sometimes I just want to slap myself because I do and say some of the most ridiculous things.  Maybe all of that has to happen in order push out whatever clouds my mind and keeps me from being "on my game" for Levi.  I just can't imagine how much crazier I could get!

All that aside, I just want to wish my growing boy a happy birthday and thank God for knowing exactly what I needed when He blessed us with Levi Allen.  My heart has never been so full.  I love you baby and thank you for all you've taught me this year.

A New Grinch in Town...

I will begin this post by quoting a letter that was placed in our mailboxes at school last Friday.  I assure you, these are not my words...

"Let's take a look at the Christmas issue first.  Many of you feel that not allowing our students to celebrate Christmas by doing "fun" things at school is wrong or prison-like.  I want you to put yourself in MY shoes.  I too stress over eliminating holiday fun from school.  However, as an instructional leader, I know that education has changed dramatically.  School today is about growing students academically; rigor and accountability.  We often discuss how many of our students struggle to read, write or do mathematics.  How can making a gingerbread house, creating a Christmas tree or reindeer, watching a Christmas movie, or making Christmas crafts or ornaments resolve those issues?  They can't!  If you Google "Christmas" or look it up in the dictionary, you will find that Christmas is an annual holiday celebrated on December 25 that marks and honors the birth of Jesus.  Christmas is NOT Santa Claus, Christmas trees, stockings, reindeer, ornaments, etc.  Those are only symbols or mythological characters created for the holiday.  So where does the North Carolina Standard Course of Study address the birth of Jesus---it DOESN'T.  And although "Christmas" cannot be taught or symbolized in school, due to the religious context, it can be shown and offered in many ways throughout our school within your own HEART of those you touch on a daily basis.  We SHOULD bring the "spirit of Christmas" into our classrooms and school EVERYDAY; not just this time of year."

Can't you just picture the devious, green, furry Grinch stuffing all of Christmas into his large bag and preparing to drive his sleigh off the cliff? 

Let me begin by stating that I do agree that one of our main focuses in education is obviously the academic growth of our students, hasn't that always been the purpose of education?   I also agree that we should never force our beliefs onto our students.  However, how do we ignore Christmas?  How do we prevent our children from sharing in the joy of this season?  This is our culture here in America.  Failure to share these "symbols" with our students is failure to teach them about our culture.  Is that not educational?  Part of the curriculum of some grade levels include teaching about Christmas around the world.  To this, we were told to "teach 'HOLIDAYS' around the world and to leave America out because we already know how we celebrate here."  Are you kidding me?  So, let me get this straight...we can teach about Kwanzaa, Hanukah, and the beliefs of other cultures, but not our own?  Not only has our school refrained from doing any holiday related crafts, they have completely wiped Christmas from our school.   We were lead to believe that this is coming down from the state and federal government; however, every other elementary school, that I'm aware of, still have signs of Christmas in their school.  In fact, I've been told that even the county office is decorated in twinkling lights.  If it is good enough for us, why isn't it good enough for the children we teach? At my school, the decorations from previous years were boxed up and sent home.  I no longer work at a school, I am the employee of an institution.  Just take a stroll down my hallway.  No more Christmas books, trees, wreaths, or even snowmen.  These educators are allowed to teach and discuss Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and any other culture celebrating during this season; however, our traditional teachings are not allowed.  Hmmm...shameful, isn't it?  

Many of you are probably not even aware that this is taking place.  Take the time to ask questions, raise awareness, stand firm in what you believe should be taught, shared, and enjoyed in your schools.  These decisions should never be left up to a panel of scrooges who enjoyed the smells, sights, and sounds of this magical time of year in their "good 'ol days." Many of our students do not have the resources and/or devoted parents to make gingerbread cookies, sprinkle some glitter on Christmas ornaments, watch a Christmas movie or read a Christmas book.  Should they not experience these privileges at school?  What fond memories do you relive about your childhood this time of year?  Is it what you scored on the end of year tests, what reading strategies you learned in the 2nd grade, or perhaps the 1st time you memorized your multiplication tables?  I'm sure it is safe to me to bet that it was probably none of these.  I remember singing the "Drummer Boy" and trying to roll my tongue just like my teacher...."ba rumbababummm."  I remember standing on the stage with my friends as we depicted the nativity in front of the flashing cameras of many supportive parents.  I have fond memories of making ornaments of oranges, cloves, and cinnamon.  To this day, when I smell cloves, it takes me back to the innocence of childhood and the joy of Christmas.  Ahhhh, I'm so thankful for those memories.  

I am not going to be responsible for taking Christmas out of the schools and the hearts of our children.  Will you? 

Musings on Motherhood

I realize it has been a while since I've posted pics of my 'lil bundle.  He's already almost 10 months old and I can hardly imagine how much faster time will fly.  I find myself often torn between getting excited about his next phase and wanting to hit the pause button and let time stand still.  My baby is almost finished being a baby...this part of motherhood is so hard!  

I've recently been realizing the challenge of raising Levi and instilling in him what God calls me to as his mother.  I want so much for him.  I think mostly of his character and the values he will possess.  I pray he always clings to Christ and does not back down when he's challenged because of his beliefs.  I want him to realize what is important in life and how to spend his time and I pray, pray, pray he IGNORES what today's media depicts as acceptable.  A lot of these thoughts of mine have been building in anticipation of Christmas.  As new parents, it is tempting to dive into all the hoop-la of Christmas, but I want to be very careful as to how Matt and I begin our traditions with Levi.  I don't want him to ever question the true meaning of Christmas.  Most of these thoughts are the result of a recent staff meeting at the school where I work.  I won't even get started on what that's all about....that is another blog in itself...stay tuned!

Here's some recent pics of Levi Buttonfly.  Enjoy and have a Happy THANKSgiving!

Dear "Anonymous"...

This post is the result of some interesting comments I received on my last post.  I never imagined one brief collection of my thoughts after the election would spark so many comments from anonymous readers.  Let me begin by apologizing for any offense I caused to any of you who frequent my blog...that was not my intention.  I was preparing to sit down tonight and respond to the first anonymous comment and then saw that there were several more...some attacking me and one siding with me...I'm not sure what I should respond to first. 

I will begin by clearing up some misunderstanding...I never stated that our President Elect was "immoral."  I was referring to the "change" that he has promised us....I believe his ideals are "immoral."  I know nothing about him as a person, as none of us do, and would not be bold enough to judge him and the way he lives his life.  I can assure you I am not without sin and I certainly will not be casting any stones.  If I came across as "judgmental," I again apologize.  I was also accused of being "close-minded."  If by close-minded you mean believing in ONE truth and ONE way and not tolerating anything other than that truth, then maybe I am.  As a Christian, I believe that the Word of God, the Bible, is full of truths, promises, and instructions on how we should live on this Earth and, fail as I many times do, I try to live my life according to these truths.  When I referred to Obama's administration as being "immoral" and "radical," I was mainly referring to his stance on abortion.  His stance on abortion conflicts entirely with what God teaches us in the Bible and what He commands of us....it is immoral and is unacceptable, not by my standards, but by God's.  When I claimed that "my heart was sick as I imagined the immoral "change" that would soon darken the doors of the White House," I was referring to our nation's unborn children that would lose their right to live because our new president views unwanted pregnancies as "punishment."  

As an American, despite my disagreements with our nation's choice, I can assure you I will support him and his administration....and, as I stated in my previous post, I will continue to pray for him and his family.  I am not a sore loser....I never have been.  I know God is in control and if it wasn't His will for our country to elect Mr. Obama, then it wouldn't be so.  

"Change"

For those of you who are in mourning, as I most certainly am, hold tight to what I keep reminding myself...God is in control and He has always been.  My heart is sick as I imagine the immoral and unpatriotic "change" that will soon darken the doors of the White House.  Thankfully, my Creator is not elected into office and will always prevail, despite how crafty His opponent is.  Stand with me and commit to be in prayer for our country, the men and women who serve so passionately, our nation's children (born and unborn), and for the radicals that will soon be taking their places in our nation's capital.  I know that God has a plan and it is perfect in every way.  He, without question, is the "change" we need and nobody, liberal or conservative, can bring about a change that is greater than what He has in store for us.  

Rollins 1st Annual Halloween Bash

If any of you read Matt's blog you are well aware of the fog fiasco at our Halloween party on Friday night.  My version of the story is somewhat different...

As most parties go, the men stayed outside with their smokes and stories, humoring each other in the freezing cold, while their much more sensible halves stayed inside listening out for the sleeping babies.  Sometime late in the night, while we were helping ourselves to heaping scoops of Lindy's bean dip, the men decided to come inside and with them came "the fog."  Now, I, like Matt, was shamefully excited about having a fog machine at our party.  Unlike him, I care very little for Halloween, but I'm all for setting the mood, and I thought the fog machine would do the trick.  I soon forgot about the fog machine and the creepy entrance it was supposed to provide because it hadn't worked all night...until the boys decided to come into our world.  They, with the least of concern, brought "the fog" into the apartment.  Now us ladies, thinking of the sleeping babes, were concerned about the effect the smokiness would have on the little ones.  While we where sitting aroundasking the inevitable questions, "the fog" filled the room like a blanket and our eyes started to burn.  We were told there was nothing toxic in the fog and not to worry...even when the question was asked about "the fog" setting off the fire alarm, once again, we were told not to worry.  Shortly after the men (among them was the Joker, Ron Burgundy, the Big Bad Wolf, and Billy Ray Cyrus) went back outside to entertain themselves, I started towards the door to investigate this problem they left with us.  About halfway down the hall, it happened.  The fire alarm was screaming and so was Levi.  I was fanning "the fog" with a broom under the alarm, which did nothing, and I kept turning off the alarm, which also did nothing.  After all of our effort, and unplugging the cursed fog machine, the sound of sirens coming down main street caught our attention.  Before I could make it to the windows, which were now open with "the fog" escaping, the trucks were pulling up and the people at Monkeez Brew, including my concerned parents, were crowding the sidewalk.  I tried to shout out to the firemen before Matt made it to the window, because I knew if they were not already angry about being called out to handle our fog problem, they really would be hot when they saw the Joker hanging out the window.  Despite my effort, the Joker made it to the window and his shouting now accompanied mine which I'm sure was very confusing to our rescuers below.  I just gave up and joined our guests inside as we laughed hysterically at the situation and at the creepy face the firemen were conversing with.  Hopefully next year's Halloween party will not be as eventful.  I do agree with Matt, I think next year, we take the chaos to someone else's house.  

Captured

Three years ago tomorrow, on a perfect October afternoon, the kind that makes you long for this time of year, I walked down a grassy aisle, in a white dress, and married my best friend.  I'm not really sure that I've ever fallen for the whole "love at first sight" spill, or any mushy, gushy stuff for that matter, but there's something about my Matt that has made my life so complete, even when we were "just friends."  He is a part of me...all of the parts that were missing, God has made whole through Matt.  I guess that's how it should be when you choose to love someone.  It should be someone who, pardon the overused movie line, but someone "who completes" you....and for me, that has always been Matt.  For our anniversary, I'm staying with my parents and Matt is lying awake (at 4 a.m.) in his hotel room in an Italian vineyard...perfect, huh?  I won't bore you all with our love story, I just wanted to send Matt my love from across the miles.  Love you babe and thank you for choosing to spend the last 3 years, and your life, with me.  You have always been my soulmate.

"You are mine beloved and I am yours to keep.  

Take my heart forever, you have captured me.  

God is singing over us, we hear it in the wind.  

Tonight our life begins."

JJ Heller, Tonight

Our Weekend...Full of Goodness!

I think Matt would agree with me in saying this was one of the best weekends we've had in a while, and as strange as it may sound, we spent most of our weekend apart.  Matt spent some much needed time in solitude in Sparta where, I believe, he was refreshed and renewed in a way only Christ can bring about.  I'm hoping he'll blog on his experiences...both dangerous and life changing (hint, hint...)!  I spent some quality time with Levi and family.  Levi had a great week last week (he slept through the night twice!!) and although he was sick this weekend, it was just a continuation of such a great week.  It could only have been more perfect if Matt would have been here.  Levi and I slept in, played, rode "Toot-Toot" (as you'll see below), visited with family at Monkeez Brew, and snuggled, snuggled, snuggled!  I am aware of how quickly baby boys learn that it isn't cool to snuggle with their mommies, so I took every opportunity to get my fix!!!  He is doing so much...he is waving "bye, bye" and imitating "mama, dada, and bye-bye."  I'm now trying to teach him to sign "more" during dinner time.  He thinks this is pretty funny and we mostly end up giggling the rest of the meal.  His personality is so precious...I believe we love him more and more every day.  I can't wait to fall in love with him all over again tomorrow...        

The morning after my first full night of sleep!

Look how rested he looks!  

Levi loves to flip around while I'm trying to change him or dress him....he apparently finds this game hilarious.

Riding "Toot-Toot" around Koko's town

Dinner with Grandma at Monkeez Brew

Napping (and drooling) on Pa-Paw after hard core playing (hims doesn't feel good) 

I'm back (probably for a short while...)

Hello blogging world!  It seems it has been so long since I've posted anything....I've missed my time in front of the computer screen and have missed sharing my thoughts.  Unfortunately, there hasn't been much to post.  I am now in the swing of things at work...serving kids, paperwork, serving kids, paperwork, paperwork, PAPERWORK!  When I come home, the last place I want to be is in front of the computer.  Some days, I'd love to sneak away and blog at work, but that would be a poor use of my time, and not to mention, against the "rules."  When I get home in the afternoon, it is all about my 'lil family.  I love being at home....cooking with Matt and playing with Levi...I am so blessed.  Levi is starting to "play" now and I'm really enjoying it.  Up until this week, I had a total of 3 toys in the house, only one of which Levi could play with.  So...I made a K-mart run on the way home from work and bought him a couple of toys.  I stood on the toy aisle FOREVER, desperately searching for something made anywhere other than China...no such luck.  He could care less though, he loves playtime and he plays so hard.  

I am loving this stage of his life and I feel like I miss so much of it while I'm at work.  Not that it is an option right now, but I spend so much time in my mind battling between would I want to stay home full-time or continue being a working mom.  I LOVE to work...I come from a family of hardworking people and it has always been my nature to enjoy work, whether paid or unpaid.  I also really enjoy my job, good days and bad, and am so grateful to be in the place and profession that I'm in.  With that said, I'd also love to invest all of that energy in my baby, my home, my husband.  Patience, patience, patience...in His time.... 

  

My Fog

Not that any of you are anxiously awaiting my next post, but if you are, I apologize for the delay. With good reason, I've been in a fog and can hardly process what I'm thinking...forget trying to post on my thoughts.  School is back in session which means I'm back at work and delirious as ever.  Gone are the days of taking my time and enjoying my leisure start to the day.  I'm up before the rooster crows and going strong until evening (and I'm still getting up with Levi once or twice a night).  So, needless to say, I have nothing to post...I think I'm losing brain cells and can't focus long enough to type anything meaningful.  Soon, I will adjust to being a working mom, the fog will clear, and I will be able to be more consistent with this blogging thing (which I enjoy more than I ever thought I would have...thanks Linders!).  

Oh, completely random thought (as most of them are these days)...yeah for Baby Levi...I think we see the start of his first tooth!

Here's a couple of pics from his photo shoot on the 15th...I was so proud of him, he was perfect as always!

"GO PACK!!!!!"