Up To Date in Kansas City

Critter Man

2010-03-04T17:38:00.000-05:00

Last week we took the kids to see Critter Man at the museum.

Both kids love Diego. At least once a day Isaac informs me that he is Diego and introduces Brooklyn or I as his sister Alicia. Any watch is a video watch in which he talks to various members of the family about animals in trouble. I am amazed at the amount of information the kids know about all sorts of animals.

Despite the excessive amount of fast talking information about each of the animals, the kids loved seeing some animals up close.

They both were game for petting this python {shudder}

That's how she rolls

2010-03-02T14:00:00.001-05:00

When it's time to got to bed Brooklyn scurries around and shoves toys into her crib.

Currently the caterpillar, a butterfly valentine from Aunti Becki, and Winnie the Pooh & Pigglet, and three trains are all necessities.

How anyone can sleep like this is beyond me.

Say Cheese!

2010-03-01T21:08:00.004-05:00

A Lovely Sunday Afternoon

2010-03-01T13:30:00.005-05:00

Anyone else just L.O.V.E the weekends? I sure do! This weekend we had no plans and enjoyed just being together. Sunday afternoon we just relaxed around the house. And this is how the kids looked- I could just eat them up.

What drummer doesn't need goggles?

Though my kids would be very comfy in a nudist colony, we have a clothing-not-optional policy to go to the basement family room. I was looking for a shirt for Brooklyn , but she had other ideas.

I am just loving having a daughter- she is girly, but loves to wrestle and play in (and eat) mud, all while wearing a necklace.

Hope your weekend was just as relaxing & fun!!

Mimi & Pap came to visit

2010-02-24T13:46:00.007-05:00

We were all so excited to have them visit last weekend.

Opening birthday presents....

Playing at the Y...

All sorts of wrestling and rough housing with Pap...

{ I think they were pretty glad to be here too }

Isaac turns 3!

2010-02-24T13:27:00.007-05:00

It's hard to believe that three years ago Zach and I were celebrating Valentine's Day in the labor room of the hospital in Lynchburg, VA. WOW! To say so much has happened since then would be an understatement. We've moved 3 times and were 6 weeks from having our third child.

{Feel free to laugh here, it's how I stay sane}

We decided instead of buying unneeded toys etc. that we were going to have a great day making memories together.

The day started out with Isaac meeting his very first pet, a goldfish whom he named Cal. Aunti Becki sent a Diego fish tank- it was a HIT! Even Champ enjoyed watching him swim around the tank.

It was FREEEEEEEEEZing that day so we were all bundled up and ran anytime we were outside. {We do live in Nebraska, I know I should just expect it.}

The highway was closed east of us because the high winds were causing blizzard like conditions. We never would have guessed from the clear, sunny, blue skies we saw all day.

We got tickets to see Playhouse Disney. What a great time! The kids loved seeing all their favorite Disney characters and singing and dancing along with them.

I loved seeing the looks on their faces the most.

Zach thought it was interesting that Mickey, after all the years he's been around, got the loudest cheers & applause when he came on stage.

Both kids reported Handy Manny was their favorite. Weird since they've only watched his show a few times, but Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Tigger and Pooh countless times.

And they both tried cotton candy for the first time....no surprise that it was a hit! It was requested for meal and snacks for days.

The only request Isaac had for his birthday was blue ice cream. I was going to just add food coloring to vanilla ice cream, but found some cotton candy ice cream that had blue & pink swirls. And, as usual, Zach requested for fun-fetti cake since he doesn't eat ice cream. Up until now he's chose the kids birthday cakes for them- they both have opinions now so I'm sure that won't last much longer.

Since the Disney show was on the 14th we decided to just make that Isaac's birthday and make the whole day his. What a great decision! Zach got to be with him the whole day, and he ended up getting another awful virus the afternoon of his birthday.

Doesn't he look pitiful!

Things that make you go hmmmmm.....

2010-02-23T08:11:00.003-05:00

Last night, after we put the kids to bed @ 8pm, I went to Walmart to finish up our grocery shopping for the week. It's not my favorite place to go, but I was alone so it was delightful!

In the first aisle a man came around the corner and said exuberantly "Hi!" to which I smiled and said "Hi" back. And on our way we each went. He came up again in the next aisle and tried to strike up a conversation with me by asking if this is my first pregnancy. I told him this is my third. To which he replied, "You have a wonderful glow about you! Pregnant women are so glowing and sexy."

I smiled and walked away thinking about a few things.

1. Should I be flattered or creeped out?
2. Has he ever lived with a pregnant woman? Surely not!

I might understand if he knew me and the fact that I spent the first 28 weeks throwing up multiple times a day. I probably do look glowing compared to then, or maybe it's just the fact that's I'm eating some now.

I guess every man has a type of women they find attractive. Blonde, tall, skinny, fat, brunette, and the list goes on & on. I never considered 'pregnant' to be one.

The Heat Is On!

2010-02-15T07:00:00.009-05:00

*Note: I hate blogger right now- I can't, for the life of me, get the formatting of this post to work*

One of the blogs I LOVE to stalk is Lil Blue Boo!!! I've just admired her work from a far, but since I've been step'n out and challenging my sewing skills lately I decided to join in with a design challenge she is doing.

I have never worked with knit materials before, but I loved the idea of upcycling old t-shirts into fun clothes. This along with my new obsession of making matching outfits for girls lit a fire :)

{Okay, so the fact that one of the prizes to the winner is an original piece of nursery art from Ashely is another motivator :) }

So I bought this pattern and went looking for some material at the thrift store. I've never done fabric painting, so I tried freezer paper stenciling for the first time. I really wanted to do an all over pattern of cherries on the black fabric to tie in the pink & green.

It was a bit tedious to cut out each individual cherry, iron it on, and paint it. But I'm thrilled with how it turned out!

I came up with this for Brooklyn's dress (2T *crossing my fingers she actually grows by then):

Since B is so petite I decided to stitch the straps down instead of leaving it as a halter that ties behind the neck.

After asking for weeks for her to try this dress on, she finally let me but was certainly not happy about having her picture taken.

The pattern is for 12 months-6T. So for the baby, who I went from some 3-6month size clothes for measurements and came up with this belly shirt and bloomers:

I used the same 2T top section, but used the front panel for both the front and back and made it a tank top instead of crossing straps. Then added a ruffle. From the bloomer section of the pattern (12 month), I subtracted a 1/2"except for leg holes and added ruffles to the bum.

BTW- this is only the second time I've tried a gathering stitch and it went much better this time. I don't think I even cursed once!

I can't wait for it to heat up this summer- mostly to see my girls in these adorable outfits! Couldn't you just eat them up? We'll see what the judges think.

Helping Hands

2010-02-09T15:00:00.001-05:00

Honestly, I don't do dishes very often. If it doesn't fit in the dishwasher I wait until the next load. But when the mood hit me recently, both kids couldn't wait to 'help' out.

Isaac is all about using the sprayer, much to the regret of our cupboards.

Brooklyn, on the other hand, wanted to get into the real action, so I gave her some of her own dishes to wash. But then she noticed how yummy the bubbles tasted- hmmm...

I'll gladly relinquish this chore to them when they can do it without licking the clean dishes, or making the kitchen a swampland.

Obssesions

2010-02-08T17:56:00.004-05:00

Most people start the beginning of the year with a news years resolution. This year, I some how ended up developing two new obsessions, instead of improving myself.

One- Farkle- it's addictive, for sure! I think I've started to curb that one, but I'm not making any promises. But since I'm only playing with fake chips I'm not too concerned.

Second is very fun :) I was thinking about how we'll have two little girls (IF our sonogram was right) in our house next summer. I remember Nonnie, my grandmother, making Becki and I matching outfits for special occasions. Envisioning my little girls in matching outfits made me REALLY EXCITED.

So I have been dreaming up outfits and making some of them. Here is the first thing I made.

A ruffly skirt for Brooklyn. I fell in love with the cupcake fabric and planned the rest of the skirt around it. I just love the sprinkle fabric on the bottom ruffle and a cherry on top! Couldn't you just eat it up!!!

This was my first attempt at making a gather- there were a few curse words uttered- but I eventually figured it out.

I plan on making matching shirt/onsie with a cupcake applique (like the one below I made for Taylor Belle) and a pair of bloomers for the baby.

I have another set almost finished that I'll post about soon......

Come Right In..

2010-02-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Come right in....Sit right down....On the floor?

At least that's where Isaac feels you need to partake of sunflower seeds when you snack on them. Because they're seeds.....you eat them like a bird. Knowing the condition of my kitchen floor, I insisted he at least eat off a plate on the floor.

If you come over for a meal here I promise we'll offer you better accommodations, if you'd like.

What's up?

2010-02-03T09:33:00.006-05:00

Last week ended rather interestingly for the Taylor household. Brooklyn had started the week with a runny nose and was just plain cranky- very unusual for her. Thursday was a normal day for us. After dinner we headed out to gymnastics and came home for dessert. There was even extra energy to expend chasing each other around before bed.

8PM: Kids are snuggled in bed.

Zach and I grab a cup of coffee and get ready to head downstairs when Isaac starts crying.

No coffee for us....he'd thrown up all over his bed and continued to throw up at least once an hour until 8am Friday morning. What a night! But I guess since it's only the second time we've had a kid throwing up in 3 years of being parents- not too shabby! He was tired, but back to his normal self in the morning. Zach took Friday off to help me out in case it continued. Can I tell you how much I LOVE my husband!

Brooklyn started Friday with a fun new behavior of screaming inconsolably for long periods of time. Usually I can say to her, "Brooklyn stop fussing. Do you understand?" and she's pout out her lip, stop crying and say, "Stand!" We had been thinking she was teething, but now we were really confused. She did develop a little fever, but nothing else.

What has possess my little girl? I took her to the Pediatrician Tuesday AM to find out she has a double ear infection. {I feel like a terrible mother for not knowing this and letting her suffer} We've also never had an ear infection in our house either- Thank God! I hope this is the last one we have too. She finally slept through most of the night last night, and even slept in a little this morning giving mommy a little extra rest to deal with the day.

Despite all the "yuck" in our house, Zach actually didn't have to work this weekend so we had three whole days together. Funny, I look back on the weekend and think about how great it was just to be together with Zach. No fun events, just endless load of laundry, cleaning and re-cleaning, mixed in with hours of holding of miserable children.

Hopefully we'll be seeing more faces like this starting today....

'cause I know it's gonna be a great one!

Handwritting

2010-01-27T13:25:00.000-05:00

We started working on handwritting last week. Hmmmmm..... We still haven't decided which hand to use, but he did concentrated very hard on it :)
Let's hope he always stays this diligent in his work!

Finally!

2010-01-22T12:00:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we were able to spend the entire weekend together, as a family. That has happened only one other time since we moved to Nebraska in October.

Zach needed to go to Lincoln to get something for me... turns out it was a Brugger's Bagel smoked salmon breakfast sandwich. He knows what I LOVE!!! It was worth the hour plus drive!!!

Since we were there....and had to bring the kids with us we went to the Children's Museum too. We had a great time, despite the huge crowd there with us. My camera battery died just after we got there so not too many pics...

Isaac LOVED the prairie dog tunnels. Not to play in the tunnels, but to carry around the stuffed animals that "lived" in the area. He carried a mouse around the rest of the time we were there.

The zoo had brought some animals for the kids to pet. B immediately pet this skink, and then tried to kiss it "Mwah!". FYI this lady also had a hissing cockroach just hanging out under her collar- GROSS!!! Brooklyn, again with no fear, reached right out to grab one of the cockroaches.

Zach and I actually went on a dinner date with another couple on Saturday night. We got a babysitter {yes, really}. We had a great time, but I don't think we'll be calling the babysitter again. Just a vibe...and I don't need that from someone I leave my precious children with. But I have the name of two other girls I think will be great. So we may just go out as adults again sometime soon :)

I'm Meltling

2010-01-20T21:46:00.003-05:00

Doesn't this picture just melt your heart? It does mine!!

I asked Zach to take my picture too (I want the kids to know I was there too),
but this was the only good one
{yikes- that's the best it gets for me right now I guess}

What did I know..

2010-01-20T21:22:00.005-05:00

I never thought I would enjoy having a girl this much!

Yesterday I took Brooklyn to get her hair cut for the first time. Her hair wasn't too long, but can you say dead ends? Yikes!! She did very well.....once she had candy to distract her.

I finally got my hair done too- it's been 5 months. And it looks and feels fantastic!

Thanks Noel!!

Warming Things Up!

2010-01-14T14:18:00.002-05:00

With the temp in the negatives and wind chill around -30 degrees, last week we spent the entire week inside. I tried really hard to make the best of it & pulled out some new activities to keep us busy. Most worked, but by Friday we'd all had it. It was only -1 out = heat wave! I was going to meet a friend at the YMCA to let the kids run around.

Okay- honest mom moment here: I had L.O.S.T it with the kids that morning. I was going to ditch them in the child watch, ditch my friend, and sit and read a book.

On the way to the Y we went past a house that something just didn't seem right- it looked like someone was snow-blowing the back yard, but the snow was gray. Weird! I had an instinct to turn around and check it out. Thank God for leading me to do that!

As I pulled up I saw LOTS of smoke coming from the garage attached to the house, and flames in the back. I parked across the street and yelled to the elderly couple in the doorway asking if they were okay. They waved & smiled like I was just out for a walk by their house. And then they went inside and shut the door. HELLO?!? YOUR HOUSE IS ON FIRE!!!

God had given me the ability to work well with the elderly (I have no problem bossing them around, when needed) and calm, rational thought during emergency situations. So I went up, opened the door and said, "Your house is on fire, let's get you guys outside." They said, "We know, we're gonna check it out and see what we can do. First we need to get dressed." Ummmm... NO! Luckily another couple stopped and yelled that they called 911. The husband couldn't find his boots, and he'd been outside in his socks when I pulled up, so I asked the other couple to get him outside & into my car. He was NOT happy about this. I went into the house & opened the bedroom door to get the wife. I couldn't even see anything in there with all the smoke. I told her there was no time to get dressed and to please come with me, then went back outside. The husband is standing in the snow, starring at the garage & reaching to open up the door. I told him not to do that, and (maybe not so gently) pulled him away. The other couple was willing to take him to the car, but his wife was no where in site. The wife of the other couple said, "She went somewhere in the back and shut the door." So I went back in & found her trying to get collars & leashes on their two dogs. I opened the back door, and shoved them out into the smoke filled back yard. I (not so gently again) grabbed the wife & pulled her outside. At this point, if she hadn't come, I would have had to leave her in there. We got them both into my van while we waited for the fire department, which showed up right away.

My poor children were FREAKING out that some strange man was sitting in the car with them & mom was no where to be seen. Can you blame them? They calmed down quickly though. So since we had a front row seat to the firemen at work, we pulled out snacks & drinks to watch the show. Sadly, we had to listen to this sweet couple talk about how they'd lived in that home for 50 years and name all the items that the flames were now hitting. Thank God the fire department was able to save their home- only the garage was seriously damaged.

A neighbor eventually came over with boots & blankets for the couple and invited them in while things got taken care of in their home. So and hour after we first drove by, we left for the Y.

But I was left with a HUGE perspective change from an hour before. The kids love the song "This little light of mine" and we were able to talk about how being kind to our neighbors was one way be can show God's light to the world. And I was overwhelmed with how precious my kids and family are!! And grateful for how God creates us all with different abilities (The other couple that showed up was not going to force the couple out of their home, so I'm not sure how the situation would have been different).

So needless to say, I didn't ditch my kids. I couldn't let them out of my site while we were playing. I kept loving on them as much as I could.

I share this to remind you how PRECIOUS our loved ones are, and not to take them for granted because things can change in an instant. So get off the computer and go tell someone you love just how much you appreciate them!

Happy New Year Celebrations

2010-01-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

The children's museum had a fun party to celebrate New Year's Eve with a count down at noon. What a great idea! The kids had fun playing in all the different spaces there (as usual) and did some special art projects.

What party would be complete without some dancing? That's fine if you're into that that kind of thing, if not just watch everyone else boogie.

When the clock struck noon we jumped on bubble wrap...
blew noise makers...

And had a blast watching everyone else

Happy New Year Everyone! May 2010 be a year full of life, love, and lots of laughter!

Fun in the snow

2010-01-01T22:15:00.002-05:00

Since Zach was off of work today, we were able to tag team wrestling the kids into their snow clothes and heading out into the 13 degree weather. We had a blast & kept it short.
This little girl just melts my heart!! She loved being out in the snow and just kept walking around, never actually touching anything.

And the sweetness of this little man....

Isaac was ready to dig in, until the snow touched his wrists that is.

Joy to the World

2010-01-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

To say we had a fantastic Christmas would be a huge understatement.

We had a huge storm coming into Nebraska, but were able to throw our stuff in the car, and head out a little early Tuesday night. Had we waited until morning, we would have been snowed in with the rest of the state. I never even consider us not getting to Kansas a possibility-which would be why I left all our presents, wrapped, at my in-laws.

Christmas Eve we were snowed in, and had a blast eating an unhurried dinner together.

Lovely table manners Brooklyn!

Mimi & Isaac mixed glitter with oatmeal for the reindeer. Apparently the glitter makes it easier for the reindeer to find.

Christmas morning was SOOOO much fun!!! Isaac and Brooklyn were thrilled with the one present that Santa left for them. That would have been fine for the day. But I couldn't wait for them to open the other special things we picked out for them.

I LOVE having a girly-girl!! (never thought that would happen)

Since Isaac is daily telling us, "I'm not Isaac, I'm Diego"
he loved this talking Diego doll from Aunti Becki!

Isn't this tree AMAZING? My mother in-law has at least one tree decorated in a different theme in each room. This is the big Victorian tree. (I wish I knew how to take better pictures inside, especially of these beautiful trees- any suggestions would be great!)

This girl is WILD! She loves all thing spinning, flying, being tossed around etc. Uncle Ben was a huge hit with both kids. Smart kids :)

And a perfect end to the the day- Aunt Heather reading bedtime stories.

We hope you all had a blessed Christmas with those you love and enjoyed the hope we have in knowing Christ was born to redeem us all.

Candy Land

2009-12-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

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One of my favorite traditions around Christmas is making sugar cookies and gingerbread houses. The kids thought the best part, by far, was the frosting.

No cookies were actually eaten- just frosting licked off of them :)

Isaac's first sport

2009-12-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

Isaac started a gymnastics class at the YMCA. We had been at the Y playing and saw a class of older kids going on. Both kids sat and watched the entire 30 min. class. So I looked into it and they have a Parent & Tot class for 2 &3 y/o. Isaac LOVED it. They do all sorts of tumbling, balance beam, bars, trampoline and just pure fun. Brooklyn can't wait to join him soon :)

Only downside so far: Isaac has learned how to say & do what they call "TaDa" before and after every move

Decking the Halls

2009-12-29T14:27:00.006-05:00

We had a blast while we were in Kansas for Thanksgiving. Hobby Lobby had a fantastic assortment of shatter proof ornaments. Our tree looked amazing!!

Lady even got to choose some to put on the tree. (We REALLY miss having our dog with us while in Nebraska)

Little Explorers

2009-11-23T22:12:00.003-05:00

The museum has a great hands on exhibit for kids with a tee-pee, pioneer house, and working waterway that teaches about irrigation. The favorite, by far, was the dinosaur dig.

And just because she's so cute....even when stuffing her face

And at least somebody liked Brooklyn's Halloween costume

Fall Fun

2009-11-15T19:57:00.000-05:00

Painting pumpkins- both kids did a great job covering every square inch.

Miraculously Brooklyn didn't even try to eat the paint!

Attempting to feeding the ducks at the lake.
It was a windy day, but I thought this was a good location for pictures.

Though our house leaves a lot to be desired, the yard is great! We've had tons of leaves to play in and there is a fun tree in the backyard that weeps down making a perfect hiding place.

Halloween

2009-11-14T19:43:00.004-05:00

Well we finally have gotten internet at home, so {hopefully} you'll see more postings here.

Halloween was fun this year. Aunty Becki sent us books about fall & Halloween last year. This year Isaac loved them and re-read them a lot. He especially liked the idea of getting candy! But he would not wear his Thomas costume....until we saw the preschool kids at the YMCA trick or treating to the different desks/offices and getting candy. Then he was all for it!! Brooklyn, on the other hand, did not like the tu-tu I made for her ladybug costume. And Halloween was no different- all we heard was screams as soon as she saw it. So she went as Brooklyn in Black {I did shover her into it to at least get one picture}

Our street had only one neighbor with lights on, so we went there. Afterward our coversation walking home went like this:

Isaac: That Daddy so kind to give us Candy
Sarah: That was kind. Do you want to trick or treat some more and get more candy
Isaac: We trick or treat, but I have enough candy.

He is such a sweet little guy!! We went to a church that was doing trunk or treat just in time for them to be finishing up. Which was fine because all the kids wanted to see was the firetruck & ambulance. The police that were directing traffic had there lights on so we may have sat on the curb and watched them for a while. Then we headed home to eat "trick or treats".

Even Champ got a treat for being such a good boy. It was a lot of fun & I'm hoping next year will be even better!

Sing'n in the Rain

2009-11-03T08:08:00.003-05:00

Isaac has taken to singing throughout the day, and usually at a very loud volume. I love the way he repeats the songs he's heard over & over.

The favorite by far is Old MacDonald. It's on one song repeat in the car, because that's all they want to listen to. Brooklyn requests "E-I-E-I-Oh, E-I-E-I-Oh" over & over again as fast as she can say it until you agree.

{last week she fell asleep in the car and when I woke her up to bring her in,
she said "E-I-E-I-Oh, E-I-E-I-Oh" in a questioning tone
before she even opened her eyes}

And according to Isaac Cows are always the first {and sometime only animal} allowed on "Old Ick-Donald's Farm" Brooklyn always requests a pig.

some of my other favorites:

Itsy-bitsy pider when up the water spout. Down came the rain & washed the pider out. Out came the sun and dried up all the rain and the itsy-bitsy pider went up the water spout. Down came the rain & washed the pider out....... {poor spider never gets back up}

Twinkle Twinkle ittle star, like a diamond in the sky. Twinkle twinkle ittle , like a diamond in the sky.....

Unplugged

2009-10-23T15:08:00.001-04:00

I really want to tell you all the good things that are happening in Hastings with the Taylors!! This week I've had a whole new perspective on how the next 9 months will be. And I will share all of that. Unfortunately our internet services is not on the good list & and I'm occasionally able to steal from an unknown neighbor who has an unsecured wireless provider {thank you whoever you are}. But they're good at being on for a few minutes, and then closing down. So... that's the quick & dirty. More to come when I can squeeze it into my neighbor's scheduled computer time, or get our issues worked out.

Nebraska Move Recap- pics to come

2009-10-16T09:51:00.000-04:00

According to Molly, if I’m going to move I have to keep my blog up to date more. I agree! However, “If you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all” kept popping into my head every time I thought about writing of our Nebraska adventure so far. Not to say there weren’t a few good things to talk about, I just didn’t want to. So here’s the good, the bad, and the ugly.

We had a friend volunteer to watch our kids last Sat. for us so we could pack up without them under foot. AWESOME!! (a huge thanks Anna!!) We spent 1-2 hrs. packing up the essentials from each room on Friday night after Zach got home so we had a good amount of things ready to head straight to the truck. Zach & his Dad loaded it all up while I packed up a few other boxed up. It only took 2ish hrs- WOW! I was amazed. We picked the kids up, made sure we had everything & headed North. We were hoping the kids would take great naps in the car and sleep a good amount of the time. Might have happened, but it didn’t. Brooklyn slept an hour, then woke up screaming and woke up Isaac. They did well on the trip- thanks to a foresight to buying a dual screen DVD player. Yes, I can drive, change DVD’s on the head rest behind me, and hand out snacks all at the same time. It was a long drive, but overall not a complete disaster.

We let the kids stay up a little late and swim in the hotel pool. And they went to sleep fairly, despite hotel noise. We headed out to our rental house and started unpacking. It is cozy {tiny} but defiantly livable. Well maybe until #3 arrives, then we’ll see. It looked as if it hadn’t been cleaned in quite a while, so I was feverishly vacuuming our bedrooms so we could set up beds at least. A good amount of elbow grease had gone a long way, and I’m much more hopeful about being here now.

How it came that Zach packed our kitchen, I’m not sure, but there are a few thing I would have considered ‘essential’ that didn’t make his cut so we’re slowly stocking up on every trip to Wal*Mart. Other than that, I think we did well downsizing. We didn’t bring any dressers since we knew the space was small, so our clothes are still in boxes as I figure that one out.

The kids and I have checked out the Y {and got a sweet deal on membership, thank.you.very.much}. They have a huge kids climbing deal (similar to monkey business), a 5 & under play area with a wooded house, bank, store, and all sorts of toys, a small gym area and trampolines to play basketball on in addition to all the regular gym ‘stuff’. The kids loved it & we played there for over an hour Monday. Tuesday we went to the Library in the morning and the Museum in the afternoon. I thought I was taking them to the children’s museam-wrong. But with an hour before everything closed I decided we’d try it out anyways and the kids had a BLAST! There were tons of animal displays to look at and a pioneer/Indian/Dinosaur dig hands on kids area. Lots of fun!! Wednesday we went to the Children’s museum. They had all sorts of fun stuff for the kids. And we were the only ones there the whole time. While this was nice for the kids, it had me scratching my head wondering, “We’ve gone to every kid friendly place in this town and I’ve yet to see any other stay at home moms- what gives?” Thursday morning MOPS met, so I knew there had to be other moms there. I had a great time. The ladies I met were so welcoming and friendly. Their next meeting is a craft fair so I’m going to show my Taylor Belle products. If I don’t make any friends by showing my stuff, hopefully I’ll make some money ☺ And the sun came out for the first time since we’ve been here. The kids and I spent the afternoon exploring the backyard, digging in the mud, finding ‘treasures’ on our walk around the block, and waving to every car that passed.

Zach is working long hours, but I think enjoying being busy instead of twiddling his thumbs sitting in cubicle land. And he loves having his family to come home to and not an empty hotel room.

The kids are doing as well as can be expected. Isaac, who has always had a difficult time with change, is coming around. Less tantrums, but requesting to watch movies a lot more. I’m trying to stay on top of ideas of other things to do and burn some energy.

Me…well maybe that should be another post, this has been long winded enough.

{Hope you approve Molly ☺}

Reality Check

2009-08-26T08:54:00.002-04:00

Well my long lost friends....here I am again.

Our trip to Western NY to visit my Nonnie & other family too went so well. The kids were perfect on the plane (thank you to fun snacks mostly). We were able to visit with my family, who loved seeing the kids. I got a decent amount of time to spend with Nonnie between naps and her radiation treatments. I also was able to tell my family in person that we're going to be adding another member to our family next April! That's right folks- the Taylors are having another baby!!

Which leads to where the heck I've been lately. The last two days of our trip were the first two days of me feeling nauseaus, nasty, pregnancy sickness. I made it home & crashed. Literally. I ended up having strep throat ontop of the normal pregnancy whoas. But boy did it land me flat on my back for a few days until the antibiotics really took care of things!! But, as has been the case with both my other pregnancies I am in barely functioning mode right now as I try to break off my intimate relationship with the three toilets in our house. Unfortunatley this time around miracle drugs are not working.....so the reality check is that blogging is going to be put on the back, back burner for now. Things like cooking, cleaning, and changing diapers to name a few is quickly filling up what time I'm not in the bathroom. I have a sono tomorrow afternoon to get an due date & see the heartbeat {yeah!}. I'll let you know how it goes when I can.

Until then!

Family Evenings

2009-08-15T23:01:00.001-04:00

We've slowly been attempting to take walks as a family...without our stroller. We tried walking on a path in a local park so that there was not traffic nearby to worry about. And we've even moved on to walking to the park near our house.

Surprisingly, Isaac is the one who wants to be carried & Brooklyn hoofs it the whole way. Not so surprisingly, they all have ended in meltdowns requiring assistance back home or to the car.

I love the cheesy grin on her face!

We're so blessed to have so many choices for fun & free
places nearby for our family to enjoy our time together!

What does your family enjoy doing during the evening to spend time together?

What's Better?

2009-08-14T22:55:00.000-04:00

What's better than lounging around on a lazy summer day? Being with Daddy!! Nothing's better than that!

I love seeing the relationship between these two develop! She lights up whenever he enters the room. She's started realizing that when the garage door opens it means Daddy is home. She runs to the door, waits with her arms up in the air and says, "Da Da. Da Da" over & over again. The only one who is envious of Daddy loving on Brooklyn is Isaac.

Helpful Hints

2009-08-12T22:16:00.005-04:00

We can't be the only ones who are looking for creative & new uses for those pesky shoes you have kicking all around your house. Lucky for you Isaac has diligently been working on coming up with helpful suggestions for you!

They make great containers for snacking on the move!

Storing extra toys. This time it was wooden blocks. I've found balls, puzzle pieces, and crayons too. I am now in the habit of checking my shoes, not for bugs, but for hidden treasures.

And my personal favorite: Why not use your rain boots as a cozy to keep your milk cup or other favorite beverage cold?

On a side note- it is very frustrating when you drop your lollipop in your rainboot & can't get it out again. Equaly frustrating when you eat it & get a mouthful of boot 'fuzz'.

Hope that helps you get more use out of your shoes!

Antiquities Pictures

2009-08-11T07:31:00.004-04:00

These pictures are from quite a while ago, but I just LOVE them!!

I scanned in the prints & do not have rights to copy from Antiquities so please don't copy, but enjoy!!

Dreams Redeemed

2009-08-10T21:18:00.002-04:00

Zach and I have had a rough few weeks with the kids. Brooklyn is teething (which is taking forever) and Isaac is doing what I assume is normal 2 year old behavioral battles. Despite that we've continued to plan fun family outings which seem to be going like this:

*Zach and I plan a good time in our day to do something we thing the kids will LOVE.

*We talk it up with the kids to get them excited too.

*I envision a great time as a family laughing and running with stellar photos to prove that it happened.

*We get there (or sometimes in the car ride there) meltdowns begin.

*Deep breaths and calm voices are used frequently.

*Tantrums continue. Wailing & nashing of teeth show their ugly little heads.

*Our dreams of above noted family time come crashing down in a firery blaze.

*Children are hauled off to the car, given drinks & snacks to keep their mouths occupied and Zach & I drive home asking each other why we even bother.

But yesterday, the clouds parted and a fun family stress free afternoon actually happened!! {shock & awe abounded}. With 95 degree weather & high humidity we decided to go to the pool (they don't allow cameras, which I appreciate, so no pics to prove it happened). The kids had a great time! We had a great time! No tantrums!

Zach had taken Brooklyn back to the pool after her snack, while Isaac lazily munched on his almonds. He leaned over to me and said, "I really happy Mommy!"

Me too buddy, me too!!

Man's Best Friend

2009-08-09T22:11:00.002-04:00

We have the best dog EVER!! Lady has a roller coaster relationship with the kids. They love her, want to chase her, pull her ears, pet her. She mostly sighs a deep sigh and walks away from them. But if there is food involved, it's a whole different story. We found out how a boy & his dog become best friends- once Isaac started feeding himself. Now that Lady has two kids to clean up after she's in heaven.

On a side note we recently found out that Isaac is allergic to both our cat & dog. Thank you Zertec for making this moment possible (and allowed by mom for a few minutes).

For the Love of Mimi & Pap

2009-08-08T22:03:00.005-04:00

We just got back from spending an afternoon with Zach's extended family to celebrate Grandma & Grandad's 65th wedding anniversary (what a legacy they have created!). On the drive home I asked Isaac what his favorite part of the day was and he responded enthusiastically, "Getting to see Mimi & Pap!"

I love to see the relationship my kids have developed with this amazing couple and, in turn, the love they lavish on my children in a way I never will be able to.

So here are some snapshots into why they are the amazing grandparents they are

Johnson County Fair

2009-08-08T21:55:00.003-04:00

Okay- Sorry I missed posting yesterday. So today I'll do two to make up for it.

This week we went to the Johnson County Fair and had a blast!! Isaac was able to ride some of the rides by himself and LOVED it!!! Brooklyn wanted off of the merry go round before it even began. But we had a fun family evening for next to nothing anyways.

Here's the proof:

Green Thumb

2009-08-06T23:18:00.003-04:00

Isaac loves to check our garden for "omatos", pull ripe ones off the vine, and carry them around. Usually one of the kids bites into it, discovers they still don't like tomatoes (just like yesterday) and throws it somewhere.

There is hope though. Isaac has not liked almonds for a long time & tonight that's all he would eat at dinner. Everytime he put one in his mouth he said, "Mmmm...Igick {Isaac} like almonds!"

Oh- and I didn't make the time to edit this picture. We'll see if I get around to it soon

C is for Crapy Craft

2009-08-05T21:04:00.005-04:00

So we've been studying our way through the alphabet. This week we're on C.

I may be the only one who has had this happen, but I've had the desire to paper mache something with Isaac. I thought he'd like getting messy. I decided today was the day. We were going to make a C is for Cow head out of a balloon covered with paper mache.

Isaac loves to help us mix stuff so that was easy entertainment.

He loved it when I showed him a few times how to put the paper in the goo and put in on the balloon. So just as he reaches up to put his first piece on, the balloon pops. I guess that's what I get for using the only balloon we had- a water balloon. And let me just tell you- that paste was everywhere & made a huge mess!!! I tired to quickly regroup and find something else that work, but lost Isaac's attention and interest long before I could get it together.

I did try to redeem myself with doing a painting project I just read about with both kids, since Brooklyn was now up. You put a bouncy ball in an old stocking, tie it off & dip it into paint. Then you drop it onto paper to make splatters. No stockings for this chick, so and old pair of socks fit the bill. Both kids liked it- score!! Brooklyn even obeyed when I told her the paint was for her "paint brush" {old sock} not her mouth. I did use just water with food coloring so that no one would be poisoned.

Every time Isaac dropped his ball onto the paper he yelled, "WOW LOOK AT THAT!"

I'm 50/50 today- not bad!

hint: if you try this do it on a hard surface- the grass doesn't let the ball bounce much.

BLing Bling

2009-08-04T23:30:00.000-04:00

Seriously we're in Day 4 of a month of post & I'm dry already.
Hmmm.... Let's look through our pictures & see what we can come up with.

Oh here's a good one.

Did you know Brooklyn is now sporting some adorable bling?

Cute Huh!

We got her ears pierced at our pediatricians with her 1 yr. well visit
(right before she got vaccinated)
What a way to say "Happy Birthday to you Brooklyn!"

She doesn't even mind them now.
While she can throw a ball almost as good as her brother,
she is a girly girl too,
often sporting a necklace or hat as well.

A girl's got to accessorize you know!

These little piggies

2009-08-03T23:14:00.005-04:00

Have I told you how much I love having a girl?
Dressing her up & doing her hair to tame her crazy curls has just been so much fun!!

Her hair is now long enough to get into the tiniest of pig-tails.

Couldn't you just eat her up?!!?

Bring in the Clowns

2009-08-02T20:59:00.001-04:00

We recently went to a small circus. When I say small I mean SMALL. They did have some fun animals to see before & during the show: elephants, zebras, camels, goats, and a hippo in a pool.

The circus began with all the performers coming out for a song/dance number. The ladies were in lion, cheetah, and tiger printed costumes. I leaned over to Zach and said, "I guess they can't afford to have real lions."

Despite being small they had some great performances and acts. Isaac loved it but really just wanted the elephants to come in the whole time. Brooklyn was a bit fussy, but every time the music came on she bounced up & down and danced along.

It was a fun time as a family & a great introduction into the circus for Isaac, Brooklyn & I. Yes it was my first circus too.

I'm that girl....

2009-08-01T21:17:00.002-04:00

I had a friend ask me recently, "Is your blog all rainbows & sunshine?"

Hmmmm.... I hope it's not. I hope I'm transparent that we're a real & flawed family.

But just to be sure I'm going to highlight some of my stellar moments lately....

I am that girl that was so busy rearranging the groceries in the trunk of her car that she didn't notice her children driving across the parking lot in their shopping cart "car".

I am that girl that locked herself out of her house with her one year old INSIDE. FYI she was in her crib for some much needed 'me time' and eventually fell asleep. I did have a baby monitor with me so I could check up on her. Isaac and I went into the garage to fix the vacuum only to realize in my attempt to keep my family safe I had locked the door into the house without getting a spare key made first. Luckily our neighbors work from home & let me use their phone (and they were not appalled that neither of us had shoes on & Isaac didn't have pants on either. More lucky for them was that I had the brilliant idea to put a bra on under my pajama t-shirt before I went out). Zach was more than glad for a reason to leave work.

I am that girl who had to call for help because I was stuck in the tar pit that is my kitchen floor created from all the food my children have dropped/spilled/thrown there. It always seems within 5 minutes of mopping the floor someone has a sticky disaster happen. So I often think, "If I clean it, it gets dirty. So if I leave it dirty will it clean itself?" For those of you wondering, no it has NOT happened yet.

I am that girl who realized the day before a Bible study I'm leading that I'd only prepared one week, not two. I did get it done, but would have liked a little more time for the topic to marinate in my mind.

And I am the girl who dutifully read {stalks} lots of other people's blogs but can't seem to keep mine updated. With that in mind I am turning over a new leaf- I am going to attempt to blog every day in the month of August. Day one...check.

See you tomorrow!

A few of my favorite things: summer time edition

2009-07-29T09:00:00.000-04:00

My babies in just their diaper
Plus baseball is another huge fav.

I've always loved thunderstorms, but mid-west ones are where it's at!!
Oh and my kids sleep GREAT when it storms & even treat me with a late wake up call :)
(disclaimer- taken from a moving vehicle)

yummmmm... cold summer time treats!

Cooling off in the water

What's on your list?

Two Times the Fun

2009-07-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

We are loving a little change in our normal schedule.

I have really enjoyed getting to know Molly, who I met through MOPS, and her family. She is an OB nurse at night a few days a week. So that she can get some sleep when she gets home from work, we're swapping kids one day a week. Her kiddos Noah & Ainsley are just about the same age as Isaac & Brooklyn. This means she & I are doubling our pleasure on our day to watch the kids. But it also means a playmate for each of our kids too.

Here are some pics from the first week we swapped. It went surprisingly well...

Everybody got along- they could even all share the cars without too much drama.

With a common love for Thomas the Train this book was a good one to entertain the boys for quite a while.

Good thing these guys like each other so much- with school, MOPS & kid swapping there are some weeks they're together 4 days a week.

Watch Out World

2009-07-21T08:32:00.000-04:00

Brooklyn decided while we were playing at Daddy's softball game that walking was the way to go. She walked...and walked....and walked for 2 hrs. straight. She insisted on starting off in this dirt patch every time. If she fell, she'd crawl back over to the patch & try again. She is a persistent girl. She doesn't get frustrated trying again & again.

Christmas in July

2009-07-17T21:44:00.004-04:00

Last year we really enjoyed cutting down our own Christmas tree. Since we have a cathedral ceiling in our living room we went with a 8' tree.
It was cute....but just too small for the room.

We looked at artificial trees that were 10'-12' for a staggering $600...at an after Christmas sale. Yikes! But we budgeted for buying a tree this year knowing it will probably been a pretty bare tree at that price until we can buy decorations too.

Last week we came across a steal of a deal on Craigslist

We got this beautiful 12' tree for $80. Yes friends....that's my kind of a deal!!!
The family selling it had been hoping to open a B&B, but haven't been able to make that dream come to fruition.

So even though there are several months to Christmas, we're so excited about being able to decorate this monster this year!! Can't wait to see how it turns out.

Long 4th of July Weekend

2009-07-06T12:02:00.002-04:00

We had just the best time as a family this weekend.

It was a long one.

Because of Zach's work schedule we had Wed- Sunday as a family and it ROCKED!!!!

We spend lots of time outside, playing in the pool, swinging, blowing bubbles, being silly and just having fun!

On Friday we went to the Royals game and saw the amazing fireworks. Both kids loved it!! Isaac was so sad when they were over.

(horrible pic, I know- I should have figured out how to do night setting before we got there)

I got to thinking during the display about how blessed we are that loud explosions over our head are fun & entertaining for us. I'm sure there are way too many people in the world that have a very different reaction- one of fear and confusion. I can't even begin to imagine what it would be like to care for your children and keep them safe in an environment like that. Once again amazed at our many blessings here in the USA!!!

On the 4th we had a fun lunch with the extended Taylor family. Last year Isaac was learned about corn on the cob & watermelon on the 4th- this year Brooklyn learned about those same foods & Isaac moved onto learning how to tear up a chicken wing.

Hope you had an equally fun & enjoyable 4th celebrating our independence!

Happy Independence Day!!

2009-07-03T14:09:00.003-04:00

A Happy 4th of July weekend to all!
We're counting our blessing & so thankful for all the freedoms we have here in America!

These Boots Are Made For Walking

2009-06-22T12:54:00.004-04:00

Zach's Aunt Loreen is a shoe lover. And she loves to share her passion with others.
Isaac & Brooklyn were the recipients of that lately.

Brooklyn got a pair of squeeker shoes.

There are squeekers in the heels of each shoe so every step she takes they squeek.
Adorable is an understatement!!

She started taking some steps a few weeks ago and now can walk across the living room. She likes a lot of encouragement to do it & daw gone-it crawling is just so much faster!

Isaac also would like to have a party thrown in his honor (and we do) when he walks across the room now too. Isaac got a pair of frog rain boots- huge hit!!

He even slept with them on a few times. They're great for squashing bugs too!

Thanks Aunt Loreen!!

Birthday Recap- part two

2009-06-22T12:22:00.002-04:00

*small disclaimer: Now that I have my new camera I take a T.O.N. of pictures- almost every day. It's like another body part and with me all the time. You'll probably get sick of looking at our pics long before I get sick of taking them :)

Okay so....Sunday we celebrated Brooklyn's birthday with family & a few friends.
Brooklyn was adorable, as always!

We found an amazing deal on renting a bounce house for the day. (Seriously $45 for the small one, but since they didn't rent out their 12x12 they gave us a free upgrade) Mimi & Pap got Brooklyn a small pool for the back yard & we brought up the ball pit (from Aunti Becki for Isaac's birthday) from the basement. When the kids got up from their naps we had the backyard all set up to have a GREAT time outside. And did we ever!!!

The food was good!
Can't beat a backyard BBQ during the summer!

On to dessert.
This girl is not shy with anything, and certainly not with digging into her cake.

Waiting patiently...

Oh, For me?

Seriously- I can eat all of this?

Don't mind if I do...

That was good! Born a chocolate lover...just like her Mama.

Some more playing....

And seconds on dessert

I can't tell you how head over heels in love we are with this little girl!
She is just a bright light, full of laughter, and so much fun.

And her hugs can't be beat! If you've had one you know what I mean.

Birthday Recap- part one

2009-06-22T11:20:00.003-04:00

Well what a weekend of fun we had celebrating
Brooklyn's 1st Birthday!!

The kids & I had a fun day even though we weren't having her party until Sunday.

I don't know if there is a girl who loves her carbs & cheese more than this one.
So why not combine them- Mac & Cheese for lunch it is

Then after lunch we mixed food coloring with whipped cream & 'painted'.

But mostly we just ate it....mm..mmm...good!

For dinner we had...carbs yet again.
It's what she would have asked for if she could say spagetti.

Then we opened presents. I was really surprised how well Isaac did being patient & letting Brooklyn get the first second or two with her new toys. We just put them all in one box & let them go wild whipping what they were interested out.

Brooklyn got her first doll house. A big hit!

Isaac showed her how to push the button on the car to get it to make baby noises & play music. Brooklyn immediately started dancing when she heard the music. The girl loves to get her groove thing on!

It wouldn't be a good day without wrestling Daddy

Then some fruit for dessert

Isaac immediately said, "Now Isaac's turn to sing Happy Birthday. And Candle too!"

Then we headed out to the park.

All in all it was a great day spent together as a family celebrating the life of our little princess!

What a year!

2009-06-12T01:31:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe "baby Brooklyn" turns one today!!

A year ago you looked like this

What a beautiful little girl you've become so far!!

Loved by so many people!!

And so loving in return (you'll come in for a quick snuggle and then you're off quickly to do something exciting)

Adventuresome would be a huge understatement

You're obsessed with slurping up any stray water on the ground.

Big kids or equipment don't intimidate you in the least.

You initiate a LOT of wrestling matches with your brother

You didn't come with a quiet button ( I know, I've tried to find it)

Whatever you're doing you do it with....passion

We are so blessed to have you in our lives!
We love you more than words can say princess- hope today is just the first of many incredible years we share together!!

Here we are!!

2009-06-11T14:01:00.004-04:00

So to all two of you who have missed us posting.... we're back.
After computer issues & a vacation &.....blah...blah...blah.

You don't want to know why, you just want to know what we've been up to. So here are is a snap shot into our lives for the last few weeks (more details to follow....I pinkie swear).

Isaac sporting his new cowboy hat & working on his riding technique. Pap isn't an obedient horse- he just wants to buck you off.

A few of Isaac's newest obessions- his paci & blanket (nothing new here), cowboy boots are apparently for any outfit & a fun necklace Mom just bought.

Our Stay-Cation with the Anders included a date night to the Power & Lights district. It's been a long time since any of us have dressed up for a night on the town without kids
(thanks Mimi for babysitting!!)

Brooklyn put to work in order to earn her turn to ride in the car

Getting to meet Luke Friend & visit with his brother Casey & Mom Crystal. Isn't he A-dorable!!

What can I say....we start with our sports loyalties early in this household. We're looking forward to enjoying the newly renovated statium as a family.

We're doing a L.O.T. of swinging

Yes I did grab my camera & watch her eat dog food- it was funny & you're laughing now too!

What more could a little girl ask for in a Daddy- there's none better!!!

A Lunchtime Winner!

2009-05-07T13:45:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love a sweet tasty treat?

Well my kids L.O.V.E. smoothies, and I love making them as a fun snack or addition to a meal.

I just cut up fruit that's close to going bad & throw it into the freezer-except bananas, I just leave those in the peels & freeze whole. Then when I'm ready to make a smoothie I toss a handful with some yogurt or applesauce into my food processor, hit on and let it whirl!

Pretty simple & D-lishious!!! Plus a great way to keep food from going to waste!

What are your favorite tasty treats to whip together?

The Bang Theory

2009-05-05T07:56:00.002-04:00

Well I have been playing around with different hair styles for ~1 yr now-

long...short...medium...layered...straight ends...

I decided, after seeing pictures of some friends who recently got bangs to try it. Why not?

I've seen pictures of the horrid mullet-like bangs my mother pranced me around in as a little girl & thank the Lord she wised up & grew them out when I was starting school. From then on Mom forbid all suggestions of bangs. So being the obedient middle school age Sarah that I was I cut the slightest wisps of long bangs & hid them from my mother by going to school with my hair wet and slicked back every morning. When I got to school, I quickly went to the girls bathroom & 'fixed' my pitiful attempt at bangs-of course with lots of hairspray.

Fast forward to Saturday- I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I went for it anyways.

And I'm so glad I did!!! I think it looks great (Zach concurs- which is important!). Maybe it's what I've needed to do this whole time. Does that mean I need to go back and try all those hair styles again, but with bangs this time? hmmmm...
(Also bonus- I can keep headbands in my hair now, when they would always fall out over & over before. I guess I have a ginormous forehead, but none of you told me)

I will post pics when my new Canon Rebel xs comes in the mail THURSDAY!!!!!!

Spicing Up Rainy Days

2009-05-01T10:30:00.003-04:00

This Kansas spring has been cold and rainy....

Cold- I can deal with that. We can bundle up & still play outside. Both kids thrive when outdoors & this keeps Mama sane.

But when it's raining what do you do?

We'll I'm fed up, so I've started planning 1 or 2 fun things to do each day despite the rain- so there!

So what have we been up to this week?

We've used the garage as an extension of the outdoors. Bubbles are soooo much fun in the garage! And while bubbles are a challenge in the normal Kansas wind, this is not a problem in the garage. Ride on toys, chalk, and games of chase work great in the open space of the garage.

I had to get over my fear of messes indoors & let the kids 'paint' with chocolate pudding inside. And you know what? It was so much fun for all of us!!! Isaac was busy driving his tractors through the 'mud' while Brooklyn ate the pudding by the fist full. When that ran out she dove face first into her tray to lick whatever her little tongue could reach. And I just laughed & enjoyed watching the kids have fun!!

One day it was warm but raining, so after dinner we all went for a walk in the rain. Isaac splashed in the puddles & ran and burned more calories than he's consumed in days. Brooklyn pushed her hippo walker up & down the sidewalks. We were all soaked, but had huge smiles on our faces when we came in to dry off & get ready for bed.

So despite the weather I have to make every effort to do my best job as a mom. Not every day needs to be filled with huge memorable events, but the little things do matter. I hope when they're older they'll sit around & talk about, "Remember when: Mom took us to... Mom let us.... Mom helped us make..."

So since more rain is in the future I'd love to have some other tricks in my back pocket. What are your favorite rainy day activities?

**FYI- our camera is dead & we're shopping for a new one**
**Sorry about no pics, we'll resolve that soon!!**

Joy in obedience

2009-04-23T13:31:00.004-04:00

I'm sure all parent can identify with being frustration of blatent disobedience & defiance from our children. Zach and I have sure felt this way, especially with Isaac and his strong willed personality. But we've tried to remain calm, stay consistent with our discipline and follow-through, and remind ourselves of what a great attribute this will be for him as an adult. Some days this worked very well.....and others have left me in tears.

The last two weeks, however, have been just a huge blessing!

Isaac has turned a corner and has been a very obedient & kind little boy. I'm not sure what changed, or why but I'm so glad that it did. He is listening to me, and usually without a fight or hesitation. I love to hear him say, "Yes Mommy" when I ask him if he understands what I'm telling him.

It's made me think a lot about how my obedience or disobedience to God makes Him feel. Do I cause Him to cry in frustration when I defy Him? Does He delight with a huge grin on His face when I obey? Does He just stare at me in utter delight of His child while I'm just being me?

While I'm not sure if this is just another phase or a corner turned in a new direction, I am enjoying each day as it comes. And handling the ineviable outbursts ('cause let's be honest folks, they still do happen) much more gracefully.

How has parenting widened your understanding of who God is & how He views you?

2009-04-12T21:26:00.005-04:00

Welcome to our new blog. We're using this to keep our family & friends up to date with what's going on in the lives of the Taylors.