I'm so thankful to be on Summer break!! Here are the top 12 things I've enjoyed during the first week of break:
1. Spending some much needed quality time with Jeremiah
2. Being off with Olivia and hearing her say, "Yay Mommy is off with me! Hip, hip, hooray!"
3. Hanging out in Chicago with Dave, Lauren, and Jeremiah
4. Swimming in my parents' pool and hanging with them
5. Jeremiah taking 2 vacation days and having family time together
6. Seeing Olivia clap for Jeremiah every time he hit a golf ball at the driving range
7. 2 hour afternoon nap
8. Reading a magazine while sitting on a lawn chair drinking Mtn. Dew
9. A long walk at Meadowbrook Park with my family
10.An enjoyable time serving in Kingdom Quest on Sunday with Anne
11.Feeling encouraged while reading my devotional
12.I'm like a different person...calm, stress-free, happy, and enjoying every single minute of this beautiful life God has blessed me with!
Yay for break! I'm excited to hang out with friends and family this summer. I feel so blessed to have a job that I love which allows me to have 2 months off in the summer!!
Jeremiah and I decided to take Olivia to see Disney On Ice for her 3rd birthday present. It just so happened that the show took place on the Friday of my spring break. We went down to St. Louis on Wednesday evening and spent the night with Kelsy. Olivia thought it was neat that she got to sleep on the floor in Aunt Kelsy's room. Liv loves her Aunt Kelsy and enjoyed playing with her jewelry! I think Olivia might take after Kelsy (Kelsy loves fashion/designing) because she walked around the apartment saying things like, "Oh Kels..cool chair" and "Kels..I love your shoes."
The next morning we got up and went to the Magic House. We planned on going to the zoo but it was raining. Since it was raining, it was crazy busy at the MH. Olivia was a bit overwhelmed and we were too! Later on in the afternoon we were able to have dinner with Canaan and Jackie. That seriously could have been Olivia's birthday present.:) We've only seen them once since they moved in December and Olivia could not wait to hang out with them.
The next morning we got up and went to Disney On Ice. It was the perfect gift for our little girl. We left her wear a princess outfit and her sparkly pink shoes. Before we left Olivia said, "Mommy and Daddy..I'm just so excited to see Disney On Ice. Do you think Cinderella and Prince Charming will talk to me?" When we entered the arena her face lit up and she squealed with delight. It was priceless. I tried to capture it with my camera, but my pictures just don't do it justice.
The show was great and Olivia was thrilled to see every princess come out at the end of the show. Jeremiah and I were laughing because Olivia was so upset at the beginning because Cinderella didn't come on first. For the first half hour of the show she said, "Where is Cinderella?" every 5 minutes. Then we saw all of the princesses come out and she said, "Oh no..but where is Pocahontas? All of them are here but her." We thought it was funny that she focused on the one that was not out there instead of all the other ones.:) Luckily for us there were a few extra princesses on the ice and we told her one was Pocahontas. On the way home she said, "My favorite part was when every single princess comed out on the ice."
I was proud of Olivia because she saw cotton candy and all of the other trinkets that they display at these types of shows. Once she said, "Can I have some cotton candy?" I said, "No, we don't have money for that today." She didn't ask for anything again. It was a great morning of cuddling with our little Livi while she watched this show. I can't remember all of the cute things she said while we were at the show, but I do know it's a day that none of us will forget.
The next morning we got up and went to the Magic House. We planned on going to the zoo but it was raining. Since it was raining, it was crazy busy at the MH. Olivia was a bit overwhelmed and we were too! Later on in the afternoon we were able to have dinner with Canaan and Jackie. That seriously could have been Olivia's birthday present.:) We've only seen them once since they moved in December and Olivia could not wait to hang out with them.
The next morning we got up and went to Disney On Ice. It was the perfect gift for our little girl. We left her wear a princess outfit and her sparkly pink shoes. Before we left Olivia said, "Mommy and Daddy..I'm just so excited to see Disney On Ice. Do you think Cinderella and Prince Charming will talk to me?" When we entered the arena her face lit up and she squealed with delight. It was priceless. I tried to capture it with my camera, but my pictures just don't do it justice.
The show was great and Olivia was thrilled to see every princess come out at the end of the show. Jeremiah and I were laughing because Olivia was so upset at the beginning because Cinderella didn't come on first. For the first half hour of the show she said, "Where is Cinderella?" every 5 minutes. Then we saw all of the princesses come out and she said, "Oh no..but where is Pocahontas? All of them are here but her." We thought it was funny that she focused on the one that was not out there instead of all the other ones.:) Luckily for us there were a few extra princesses on the ice and we told her one was Pocahontas. On the way home she said, "My favorite part was when every single princess comed out on the ice."
I was proud of Olivia because she saw cotton candy and all of the other trinkets that they display at these types of shows. Once she said, "Can I have some cotton candy?" I said, "No, we don't have money for that today." She didn't ask for anything again. It was a great morning of cuddling with our little Livi while she watched this show. I can't remember all of the cute things she said while we were at the show, but I do know it's a day that none of us will forget.
..that I'm officially addicted to running!
We celebrated my mom's birthday last weekend and my sister, Kelsy, came home for the weekend too. I can't tell you how many times Kels and I have said, "I wish I was a runner or I want to start running" and then we never pursued these goals. Kels was telling me that she started training for a 1/2 marathon. I was really proud of her and just kept saying, "I'm so proud of you. I wish I could do that, but I don't think I could even run 1/2 a mile." Kels has a friend who runs marathons and she wrote out a training plan for Kels. It's starts with running 2 miles and then you gradually build up to the 13 miles for the half. We decided that we would keep each other accountable and both train for a half marathon.
The next day I called Kels and told her that I didn't want to let myself down and that I was afraid a half was just too much right now. I told her that I would be up for training for a 10K run that would take place at the end of April. She agreed to run this with me.
So, I started my first day of training on Monday. Honestly, I didn't think that I could run more than 1 mile..but I ran 2. I'm just documenting this for me as I know this is a pretty boring post to read!:)
Monday, Jan. 30-2 miles
Tuesday, Jan. 31-2 miles
Wednesday, Feb. 1-Rest
Thurs., Feb. 2-3 miles
Fri., Feb. 3-3 miles
Sat., Feb. 4- 2 miles
I've decided that I love running (at my VERY slow pace!). It makes me feel better about myself, helps alleviate my stress, and I have more energy. Before Monday I tried to get out of any type of exercise, but now I start my day off thinking about when I can fit it in. Today, it was pouring down rain (the kind that blows sideways) and really windy, but Jeremiah told me that if I wanted to be a runner I needed to start running in all types of weather (I really wanted to punch him for this..hahaha). So, I went out in the gross weather. Now, I felt like I was going to pass out when I came home...but I did it.:) I know that running 2 or 3 miles doesn't seem like a huge deal to some people, but it's the most I think I've ever done at one time.
Here are a few things that really help motivate me:
1. Jeremiah has been working out and eating healthier for a while now. He knows how important it is to make working out a priority. So, he encourages me every day to get out and run.
2. I know that my little sister is training for the same race. I don't want to let her down.
3. Jeremiah's iphone-he has an app. that tells me every time I complete a mile. I tell myself I have to run until the lady tells me that I've reached my goal.
4. Music-I love listening to worship music as I run.
5. I want to be a healthy mommy for Olivia. I know it's going to be hard to find time when our little boy comes home, so I need to make myself a priority now.
Sorry for the boring post. Like I said, this is a way for me to document my progress. Have a great weekend!
We celebrated my mom's birthday last weekend and my sister, Kelsy, came home for the weekend too. I can't tell you how many times Kels and I have said, "I wish I was a runner or I want to start running" and then we never pursued these goals. Kels was telling me that she started training for a 1/2 marathon. I was really proud of her and just kept saying, "I'm so proud of you. I wish I could do that, but I don't think I could even run 1/2 a mile." Kels has a friend who runs marathons and she wrote out a training plan for Kels. It's starts with running 2 miles and then you gradually build up to the 13 miles for the half. We decided that we would keep each other accountable and both train for a half marathon.
The next day I called Kels and told her that I didn't want to let myself down and that I was afraid a half was just too much right now. I told her that I would be up for training for a 10K run that would take place at the end of April. She agreed to run this with me.
So, I started my first day of training on Monday. Honestly, I didn't think that I could run more than 1 mile..but I ran 2. I'm just documenting this for me as I know this is a pretty boring post to read!:)
Monday, Jan. 30-2 miles
Tuesday, Jan. 31-2 miles
Wednesday, Feb. 1-Rest
Thurs., Feb. 2-3 miles
Fri., Feb. 3-3 miles
Sat., Feb. 4- 2 miles
I've decided that I love running (at my VERY slow pace!). It makes me feel better about myself, helps alleviate my stress, and I have more energy. Before Monday I tried to get out of any type of exercise, but now I start my day off thinking about when I can fit it in. Today, it was pouring down rain (the kind that blows sideways) and really windy, but Jeremiah told me that if I wanted to be a runner I needed to start running in all types of weather (I really wanted to punch him for this..hahaha). So, I went out in the gross weather. Now, I felt like I was going to pass out when I came home...but I did it.:) I know that running 2 or 3 miles doesn't seem like a huge deal to some people, but it's the most I think I've ever done at one time.
Here are a few things that really help motivate me:
1. Jeremiah has been working out and eating healthier for a while now. He knows how important it is to make working out a priority. So, he encourages me every day to get out and run.
2. I know that my little sister is training for the same race. I don't want to let her down.
3. Jeremiah's iphone-he has an app. that tells me every time I complete a mile. I tell myself I have to run until the lady tells me that I've reached my goal.
4. Music-I love listening to worship music as I run.
5. I want to be a healthy mommy for Olivia. I know it's going to be hard to find time when our little boy comes home, so I need to make myself a priority now.
Sorry for the boring post. Like I said, this is a way for me to document my progress. Have a great weekend!
Have I told you just how much I love the 2-3 age? I love the pretend play, the sentences, how Olivia can play for hours on her own, her interest in books, the questions, and just about everything else that comes along with being a two-year-old. Don't get me wrong...we have our bad days, but everyone does.
It's been a delight being home with Olivia these past couple of days. One of things I love is that she understands Christmas this year. We bought her a Nativity set and we talk about baby Jesus every night. I was so excited the first night we talked about baby Jesus and his birth. Right after this discussion Olivia started playing with the set. She said, "Hey Jesus..do you want some mac and cheese?" Then she had Mary say, "No, baby Jesus doesn't want mac and cheese. He wants chicken nuggets and fries." Okay..so we still have a long way to go.:) The point is that she knows who Jesus is and that it is his birthday. I want her to grow up knowing why we celebrate Christmas. Sure, I think it's okay to talk about the reindeer and Santa. I think it's okay to talk about giving to others and doing acts of service during the holiday season (and all year)....but the real focus should be Jesus. So, even if baby Jesus is ordering mac and cheese, I know that Olivia understands that Christmas is about Jesus' birthday. It's a time to celebrate because of Jesus...not because of Santa or presents.
Today Olivia and I decided to make a bunch of cookies. She was just precious helping me push the dough of the sugar cookies down onto the tray. We were trying to make reindeer cookies and she actually wanted to pinch the sides of the dough in to make the shape of the reindeer faces. Here are two pictures from our baking adventure...just disregard the messy kitchen.:)
It's been a delight being home with Olivia these past couple of days. One of things I love is that she understands Christmas this year. We bought her a Nativity set and we talk about baby Jesus every night. I was so excited the first night we talked about baby Jesus and his birth. Right after this discussion Olivia started playing with the set. She said, "Hey Jesus..do you want some mac and cheese?" Then she had Mary say, "No, baby Jesus doesn't want mac and cheese. He wants chicken nuggets and fries." Okay..so we still have a long way to go.:) The point is that she knows who Jesus is and that it is his birthday. I want her to grow up knowing why we celebrate Christmas. Sure, I think it's okay to talk about the reindeer and Santa. I think it's okay to talk about giving to others and doing acts of service during the holiday season (and all year)....but the real focus should be Jesus. So, even if baby Jesus is ordering mac and cheese, I know that Olivia understands that Christmas is about Jesus' birthday. It's a time to celebrate because of Jesus...not because of Santa or presents.
Today Olivia and I decided to make a bunch of cookies. She was just precious helping me push the dough of the sugar cookies down onto the tray. We were trying to make reindeer cookies and she actually wanted to pinch the sides of the dough in to make the shape of the reindeer faces. Here are two pictures from our baking adventure...just disregard the messy kitchen.:)
All I've ever wanted in life is a healthy child (or children) and an amazing husband. I have both..I know I'm blessed. I also know that I'm such a dork because I often say to Jeremiah, "This is all I've ever wanted. I'm so happy." He makes fun of me by saying it when he knows I'm thinking it. I'll admit it...the past few weeks I've been kind of grumpy (although..I'm almost positive Jeremiah would say I've been extremely grumpy). As you know, we are adopting and it's been an emotional journey thus far. I've come to the realization that God is in control of our adoption. Thank goodness I'm feeling like myself again. I don't want to be grouchy or annoyed around the people I love. I want Jeremiah and Olivia (and everyone else) to see God's love radiate from me. I want them to see how much I adore them because they are truly all I've ever wanted in life.
On a different note, I had the day off today. I had such a spectacular day with Olivia. It was one of those days that I wanted to last forever. The weather was perfect and we had a blast being together. First, I took Olivia to the soccer fields. She'd never been to an actual field before and it was fun to watch her kick the ball around. After Olivia ran around for a bit, she went and sat down on the sandbag (the one that holds the net down). She said, "Mommy..I'm tired. I take a nap now."
After we played soccer we went to the lake for a picnic. We ate lunch and then played with her toys for awhile. Olivia took our blue blanket and turned it into the ocean and used some leaves for the sand. Then she told me that her dolls were going to the beach. She also heard birds chirping and we talked about how birds eat worms. Then she said, "Mommy...what do worms eat?"
I love this age! Every second I'm with her I just want to squeeze her. I could watch her play all day.
On a different note, I had the day off today. I had such a spectacular day with Olivia. It was one of those days that I wanted to last forever. The weather was perfect and we had a blast being together. First, I took Olivia to the soccer fields. She'd never been to an actual field before and it was fun to watch her kick the ball around. After Olivia ran around for a bit, she went and sat down on the sandbag (the one that holds the net down). She said, "Mommy..I'm tired. I take a nap now."
After we played soccer we went to the lake for a picnic. We ate lunch and then played with her toys for awhile. Olivia took our blue blanket and turned it into the ocean and used some leaves for the sand. Then she told me that her dolls were going to the beach. She also heard birds chirping and we talked about how birds eat worms. Then she said, "Mommy...what do worms eat?"
I love this age! Every second I'm with her I just want to squeeze her. I could watch her play all day.
Today was my last day of summer break. I'm going to be honest, I did tear up a bit when I was feeding Olivia breakfast this morning. And...then I did tear up again when I was putting her down for a nap because I treasure the cuddle time we have before and after her naps. We've had an absolutely wonderful summer. I tell Jeremiah all the time that I could definitely be a stay at home mom if the opportunity was given to me.:) It's not an easy job, but I do enjoy being home with Olivia.
Every time I get down about leaving my girl, I just think of the parents in Africa right now. Have you read this article: http://news.yahoo.com/tortured-choice-famine-child-lives-170128855.html. It is heartbreaking. I can't even imagine what those parents are going through. Those parents would give anything to be where I am right now. It has definitely made me more thankful for what I have. While I can be sad that I'm not with Livi every day, I'm definitely praising God for the life He has blessed me with.
So to end on a positive note, I'm going to list the highlights of my summer break (in no particular order):
1. Spending every single day with Olivia
2. Watching Olivia grow up over the past months-I can't believe the phrases that come out of her mouth! It's amazing how much a child can change in just a few months.
3. Listening to Olivia sing songs at lunch time and when she wakes up from her nap.
4. Laughing, laughing, and more laughing with Olivia every day. She is hilarious.
5. Seeing Olivia dance at the wedding we were at last weekend.
6. Spending a night in St. Louis to celebrate Jeremiah's 30th birthday (He doesn't actually turn 30 until September).
7. Having a date night with Jeremiah for our anniversary.
8. Spending numerous days at my parents' pool.
9. Our vacation to Hilton Head with my entire family.
10.Watching Olivia watch fireworks for the first time.
11. Walking on the beach with Jeremiah
12. Watching Olivia play in the ocean with my dad
13. Sitting on the beach with just my two sisters.
14. Spending a few days with my mom and Livi
15. Watching Olivia play with her cousins
16. Hanging out with friends from high school
17. Hanging out with friends from Champaign
18. Receiving our USCIS letter with our fingerprinting date
19. Receiving numerous financial donations for our adoption
20. Picnic lunches at the lake with my girl
21. Finishing most of our dossier paperwork
22. Meeting new friends through adoption
23. Hearing Olivia say, "Mommy when is our baby boy coming home? I hug him and kiss him." Also when she says, "Ethiopia is in Africa. Where baby boy's mommy and daddy go?"
24. Going to the Cardinal's game with friends
25. Spending numerous days off together as a family.
There are so many more memories from this summer and I could go on and on. I'm just so thankful for the blessing of being off in the summer. Now..I just can't wait for next summer. Maybe I will have both my kids home with me by then!?:)
Every time I get down about leaving my girl, I just think of the parents in Africa right now. Have you read this article: http://news.yahoo.com/tortured-choice-famine-child-lives-170128855.html. It is heartbreaking. I can't even imagine what those parents are going through. Those parents would give anything to be where I am right now. It has definitely made me more thankful for what I have. While I can be sad that I'm not with Livi every day, I'm definitely praising God for the life He has blessed me with.
So to end on a positive note, I'm going to list the highlights of my summer break (in no particular order):
1. Spending every single day with Olivia
2. Watching Olivia grow up over the past months-I can't believe the phrases that come out of her mouth! It's amazing how much a child can change in just a few months.
3. Listening to Olivia sing songs at lunch time and when she wakes up from her nap.
4. Laughing, laughing, and more laughing with Olivia every day. She is hilarious.
5. Seeing Olivia dance at the wedding we were at last weekend.
6. Spending a night in St. Louis to celebrate Jeremiah's 30th birthday (He doesn't actually turn 30 until September).
7. Having a date night with Jeremiah for our anniversary.
8. Spending numerous days at my parents' pool.
9. Our vacation to Hilton Head with my entire family.
10.Watching Olivia watch fireworks for the first time.
11. Walking on the beach with Jeremiah
12. Watching Olivia play in the ocean with my dad
13. Sitting on the beach with just my two sisters.
14. Spending a few days with my mom and Livi
15. Watching Olivia play with her cousins
16. Hanging out with friends from high school
17. Hanging out with friends from Champaign
18. Receiving our USCIS letter with our fingerprinting date
19. Receiving numerous financial donations for our adoption
20. Picnic lunches at the lake with my girl
21. Finishing most of our dossier paperwork
22. Meeting new friends through adoption
23. Hearing Olivia say, "Mommy when is our baby boy coming home? I hug him and kiss him." Also when she says, "Ethiopia is in Africa. Where baby boy's mommy and daddy go?"
24. Going to the Cardinal's game with friends
25. Spending numerous days off together as a family.
There are so many more memories from this summer and I could go on and on. I'm just so thankful for the blessing of being off in the summer. Now..I just can't wait for next summer. Maybe I will have both my kids home with me by then!?:)
Jeremiah, Olivia, and I went to see the "Winnie the Pooh" movie last night. We thought Olivia might be a little young to sit through the movie, but we wanted to try. The movie was only about an hour long and she loved it. It was fun to watch her face light up as she watched the movie and saw the characters she loves to read about. We decided to get her some popcorn because it was her first movie. Olivia kept her hands in the popcorn the entire movie. It was sweet to watch her because she only took out one piece at a time.
When the credits started rolling, I put Olivia down on the floor. She looked at me (with a quivering lip) and said, "More...I watch more Winnie the Pooh." I told her that it was over, but we'd watch it again. The entire way home she was sad. When we talked about the movie (or asked her questions about it), she started to tear up! We got home, put her pj's on, and then started to put her to bed. Olivia lost it and starting hysterically crying. I hugged her and told her to use her words. All of the sudden she blurted out, "Want more." I said, "What do you more of?" Between her cries she blurted out, "I want more popcorn." Oh my gosh...we were trying so hard not to laugh. After Jeremiah explained that we could have popcorn another day, she stopped crying and went right to sleep.
We thought she was sad because the movie was over, but she was actually upset because we threw the remaining popcorn away.
When the credits started rolling, I put Olivia down on the floor. She looked at me (with a quivering lip) and said, "More...I watch more Winnie the Pooh." I told her that it was over, but we'd watch it again. The entire way home she was sad. When we talked about the movie (or asked her questions about it), she started to tear up! We got home, put her pj's on, and then started to put her to bed. Olivia lost it and starting hysterically crying. I hugged her and told her to use her words. All of the sudden she blurted out, "Want more." I said, "What do you more of?" Between her cries she blurted out, "I want more popcorn." Oh my gosh...we were trying so hard not to laugh. After Jeremiah explained that we could have popcorn another day, she stopped crying and went right to sleep.
We thought she was sad because the movie was over, but she was actually upset because we threw the remaining popcorn away.
Many of Olivia's little friends have started the potty training process. I decided that I would start trying to potty train her after we got back from Hilton Head. The night we got back we got out the potty and made a huge deal about it. She sat on it one time and then decided she didn't want anything to do with it (and this lasted for about a week). Then we went out to lunch with Ava and Nicci and Olivia watched Ava go potty on the big potty. Olivia decided that she wanted to sit on it too. For the last week, Olivia has sat on the potty but hasn't gone to the bathroom. Of course we've been praising her like crazy for just sitting on it. We got a huge jar of M&M's and told her she would get three every time she went potty. She wanted the candy, but didn't care enough to go potty. On Monday, Jeremiah and I were in Target with Olivia. She saw a Cinderella barbie doll and wanted it. We told her we would give it to her if she went pee pee on the potty. Olivia was thrilled. When we got home she held the doll, sat on the potty, and then within one minute she went to the bathroom. We started clapping and dancing and she said, "Cinderella doll!" Now I always thought it was silly when people gave their children rewards for going potty. I thought that it was just a natural thing and that I wouldn't need to reward my children for going potty. I was wrong...the Cinderella doll was a great motivation for her. So after Monday I thought she would go potty on the potty chair...but again, I was wrong. She has sat on the potty numerous times and has never gone again. We still tell her we'll give her M&M's, we bought her this cheap toy microphone (like Grace has), and my mom even bought her big girl underwear for a reward. Olivia was excited about the underwear, but she still won't go potty.
Yesterday, I decided that I was going to take her potty multiple times during the day but I would also leave her diaper off. I thought that she would tell me when she needed to go potty (after we talked about how to tell me if she needed to go). She went from 8:30a.m.-10:00a.m. without going to the bathroom. I took her at least three times during that time and she didn't go. About 10:00a.m., she looked at me and said, "Uh oh..I go pee pee on the floor." She had gone on the floor and on her blanket. I know every child has accidents, but I don't know if Olivia is ready for potty training. I'm going to keep trying to get her to go, but I'm not going to push it. She's going to go when she is ready. I just hope it's before she starts first grade-ha.:)
Yesterday, I decided that I was going to take her potty multiple times during the day but I would also leave her diaper off. I thought that she would tell me when she needed to go potty (after we talked about how to tell me if she needed to go). She went from 8:30a.m.-10:00a.m. without going to the bathroom. I took her at least three times during that time and she didn't go. About 10:00a.m., she looked at me and said, "Uh oh..I go pee pee on the floor." She had gone on the floor and on her blanket. I know every child has accidents, but I don't know if Olivia is ready for potty training. I'm going to keep trying to get her to go, but I'm not going to push it. She's going to go when she is ready. I just hope it's before she starts first grade-ha.:)
My parents are taking us to Hilton Head to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary. Isn't it nice that they are taking us, when it's their anniversary!?:) I can not wait to spend an entire week at the ocean with my family. Olivia and I went to Target today to get a few items for our trip. She had me cracking up the entire time we were in the store. Here are a few things that I heard her say while we were in the dressing room-I was trying on clothes and she said, "Mommy, that cute." I asked her if she liked my outfit and she said, "Yah...that cute."
Olivia was looking at me and said, "Mommy, I so wonderful." Later on she said, "I so cute." I guess she doesn't hear us compliment her enough at home-ha!
As we were walking through the clothing racks she said, "Mommy, I want boy look at me." Then she started saying, "Boy..look at me!"
When I was looking at shampoo she said, "Are you happy?" I told her I was very happy. Then a few minutes later she said, "Mommy..are you so sad?" I told her I was happy, not sad.
Then we started walking down the food section and she was belting out the song, "Jesus Loves Me" as loud as she could. The rest of our Target experience consisted of Olivia singing a few different songs, shouting "Hi peoples!" to everyone we saw, and talking about everything she wanted ("I want take that to beach" and "Oh my gosh, Mommy..I take that beach.").
She was an absolute doll and I enjoyed being with her. She sat in her cart for at least an hour when she said, "My booty is so hot." I started laughing and asked her what she just said. She repeated it again. I don't know where that came from!
I hope the people in Target thought she cute and not annoying. But...I'll never get enough of this little girl of mine. :)
Olivia was looking at me and said, "Mommy, I so wonderful." Later on she said, "I so cute." I guess she doesn't hear us compliment her enough at home-ha!
As we were walking through the clothing racks she said, "Mommy, I want boy look at me." Then she started saying, "Boy..look at me!"
When I was looking at shampoo she said, "Are you happy?" I told her I was very happy. Then a few minutes later she said, "Mommy..are you so sad?" I told her I was happy, not sad.
Then we started walking down the food section and she was belting out the song, "Jesus Loves Me" as loud as she could. The rest of our Target experience consisted of Olivia singing a few different songs, shouting "Hi peoples!" to everyone we saw, and talking about everything she wanted ("I want take that to beach" and "Oh my gosh, Mommy..I take that beach.").
She was an absolute doll and I enjoyed being with her. She sat in her cart for at least an hour when she said, "My booty is so hot." I started laughing and asked her what she just said. She repeated it again. I don't know where that came from!
I hope the people in Target thought she cute and not annoying. But...I'll never get enough of this little girl of mine. :)
Hey! Jeremiah and I have created a new blog just about our adoption journey. I'll still post on this site about Olivia and other family things. If you want to follow our adoption journey, please go to this site:
www.ourjourneytofour.com
*If this site is down, please go to www.ourjourney2four.blogspot.com.
Thanks!
Kortny
www.ourjourneytofour.com
*If this site is down, please go to www.ourjourney2four.blogspot.com.
Thanks!
Kortny
I really enjoy being home with Olivia. We had the most delightful day together today! We went to the park and then had to run many errands. I took her to lunch and we had such a great time. Olivia heard music playing in the restaurant and she started dancing. My girl loves to dance. It's hilarious. I think she has better dance moves than I do!
It's one of those days that I just tear up looking at my girl because I know that God has greatly blessed me. I know that Olivia isn't perfect, but she is perfect for me. As I drove home today, I was thinking about my number one responsibility as a mom. My first responsibility is to help her know God and the great love He has for her. Of course I want Olivia to be a great person. Of course I want to teach her to be respectful and care about other people. Of course I want to teach her the importance of contributing to her community and serving others. However, the most important thing for me is to teach her about Jesus and hope that she accepts Him into her heart. It's crazy for me to think that I love Olivia so much, but God loves her more than I do. I'm thankful that I go to Quest and the people will help me teach Olivia about Jesus and the love He has for her. But..at the end of the day, it's my job to teach her about accepting Christ in her life. This feels like such a big responsibility, so I know that I need to start teaching her about His love now.
It's one of those days that I just tear up looking at my girl because I know that God has greatly blessed me. I know that Olivia isn't perfect, but she is perfect for me. As I drove home today, I was thinking about my number one responsibility as a mom. My first responsibility is to help her know God and the great love He has for her. Of course I want Olivia to be a great person. Of course I want to teach her to be respectful and care about other people. Of course I want to teach her the importance of contributing to her community and serving others. However, the most important thing for me is to teach her about Jesus and hope that she accepts Him into her heart. It's crazy for me to think that I love Olivia so much, but God loves her more than I do. I'm thankful that I go to Quest and the people will help me teach Olivia about Jesus and the love He has for her. But..at the end of the day, it's my job to teach her about accepting Christ in her life. This feels like such a big responsibility, so I know that I need to start teaching her about His love now.
Olivia was the flower girl in my cousin Jake's wedding. Jeremiah and I were a little nervous about how she would act because well..she's 2! She did a great job at the rehearsal (maybe it was because I told her I would give her ice cream if she went down the aisle-ha!). There was a mix-up with what time Olivia needed to be at the church for pictures so she ended up not getting a nap on the actual wedding day. Since she didn't take a nap, she was very crabby for the wedding pictures. Olivia would not take pictures with the bridal party. I was embarrassed, but then I realized that I can't expect perfection from a 2 year old.:) I tried to think of everything I could to get Olivia to take a picture with the bride. So, I had to bribe her again..this time with a cookie. If you know me, you know that I am usually very consistent and I don't give in to her. However, I really wanted her to take a picture with the bride. Finally, she took two pictures with the bride and then shouted, "Cookie!!!!!" Oh gosh..I felt like such a bad mom.:) The wedding took place a few hours later and Olivia did a fabulous job. She literally ran down the aisle to my dad and me. We only have video of her running to us, but my parents took some pictures. I'll have to post them later. It was wonderful getting together with my cousins and extended family members. We don't get together enough! Olivia was a doll at the wedding and she even stayed up until we got home at 11:00 (again..I felt like a bad mom for letting her stay up late!). Overall, the day was great. I'm thankful for the time we got to spend with family.
Snuggling with Daddy at the hotel
My family
I need to add a few things about Olivia: She is such a delight to be around and she's started saying hilarious things. My dad said, "Oh my gosh" the other day and now she says it too. The other day Jeremiah brought out a toy baby bottle that she hadn't seen in a few months and she said, "Oh my..gosh Daddy!" Today we were at the store and I asked Olivia if she wanted oranges and she said, "Oh my gosh....oh my gosh...yes, mommy!" It's adorable how she responds with "Oh my gosh" when she's excited. I just love being home with her and hearing her talk all the time. She has grown up so much in just the last week. Here are a few other phrases I've heard her say this week-"Mommy, follow me. I'm going home to see my Daddy at home," "Mommy, my baby is so hot(she was in the sun)," "I dialing for pizza," "Ba-Pa go work to see peoples," and "Mommy, let's run really fast." She runs through the house saying things like, "Mommy..what you doing?" and "Mommy..what is that?" The other day she asked me, "Why is that blue?" She has said many other adorable things, but these are just a few of the phrases I want to write down for myself. I know you probably aren't interested in what she is saying, but I plan to print this out for her someday and I want her to read about what she was doing at this age.
Snuggling with Daddy at the hotel
My family
I need to add a few things about Olivia: She is such a delight to be around and she's started saying hilarious things. My dad said, "Oh my gosh" the other day and now she says it too. The other day Jeremiah brought out a toy baby bottle that she hadn't seen in a few months and she said, "Oh my..gosh Daddy!" Today we were at the store and I asked Olivia if she wanted oranges and she said, "Oh my gosh....oh my gosh...yes, mommy!" It's adorable how she responds with "Oh my gosh" when she's excited. I just love being home with her and hearing her talk all the time. She has grown up so much in just the last week. Here are a few other phrases I've heard her say this week-"Mommy, follow me. I'm going home to see my Daddy at home," "Mommy, my baby is so hot(she was in the sun)," "I dialing for pizza," "Ba-Pa go work to see peoples," and "Mommy, let's run really fast." She runs through the house saying things like, "Mommy..what you doing?" and "Mommy..what is that?" The other day she asked me, "Why is that blue?" She has said many other adorable things, but these are just a few of the phrases I want to write down for myself. I know you probably aren't interested in what she is saying, but I plan to print this out for her someday and I want her to read about what she was doing at this age.
Today was my last day of school. I was jumping around our house this morning before I left. Olivia was looking at me like I was crazy (I can't imagine why..ha!). I was shouting, "Last day of school! Last day of school!" Then I started telling Olivia that we were going to be together all summer. I know she has no idea what it means but she got a huge smile on her face. She knows that we are going to be together and that's all that matters to me! That past few weeks have been stressful for me. I've been getting to work early and working until late at night on school stuff. I'm so glad it's summer! Summer means time to spend with my hubby and Livi. I'm so thankful that I am a teacher and I get the summer off.
Even though I'm happy that it's summer, I'm sad that my students won't be "my students" anymore. I developed strong relationships with this class and I am so sad to promote them to 4th grade. They were an awesome group of kids. Sure, I had some challenging kids, but I loved them. Isn't it funny that the kids who cause us the most stress, energy, and time end up being some of our favorite students? I am really going to miss these kids. I had amazing parent support this year too. Over the past few weeks I've had multiple parents e-mail me or send me cards of encouragement. Today I had a parent crying when she was saying goodbye to me. She was crying because I've had two of her daughters and she appreciated me as a teacher. I don't tell you that to brag, but just to show you how wonderful the parents have been this year. These parents have just reassured me that God wants me to be a teacher. Even though it's hard leaving Olivia, I'm making a difference in the lives of children. What a way to end the year!
*Olivia was the flower girl in my cousin's wedding this weekend. I'll have to post pictures soon. She was hilarious as she RAN down to my dad and then dumped her flower petals out on the floor. Priceless-I love her so much!:)
Even though I'm happy that it's summer, I'm sad that my students won't be "my students" anymore. I developed strong relationships with this class and I am so sad to promote them to 4th grade. They were an awesome group of kids. Sure, I had some challenging kids, but I loved them. Isn't it funny that the kids who cause us the most stress, energy, and time end up being some of our favorite students? I am really going to miss these kids. I had amazing parent support this year too. Over the past few weeks I've had multiple parents e-mail me or send me cards of encouragement. Today I had a parent crying when she was saying goodbye to me. She was crying because I've had two of her daughters and she appreciated me as a teacher. I don't tell you that to brag, but just to show you how wonderful the parents have been this year. These parents have just reassured me that God wants me to be a teacher. Even though it's hard leaving Olivia, I'm making a difference in the lives of children. What a way to end the year!
*Olivia was the flower girl in my cousin's wedding this weekend. I'll have to post pictures soon. She was hilarious as she RAN down to my dad and then dumped her flower petals out on the floor. Priceless-I love her so much!:)
May 23, 2011
As most of you know, Jeremiah and I are in the process of adopting a child from Ethiopia. We are absolutely thrilled about this and can’t wait to bring our child home. I thought I would write a quick update about our adoption journey thus far. We’ve just started the process, so I don’t have much to blog about. However, I want to document (for myself) each step in our process.
Jeremiah and I met with our home study caseworker last Monday. We feel like she’s on top of things and will be extremely helpful throughout our adoption journey. She gave us at least 6 folders full of information to fill out. In addition, she gave us a gigantic packet of articles to read. I think we’ll be doing a lot of reading this summer! We spent at least 10 hours individually filling out our marital assessment and autobiographies this past week. We also completed the application for the Babyfold. I’m glad we spent so many hours completing the paperwork last week. We were able to turn in our application and get the process started! Our caseworker said our local home study should take between 2-3 months. After that, our home study is sent to a few different places. This could take another 2-4 months.
Today, Jeremiah and I attended an all day adoption training class. It was insightful and gave us a better understanding of the adoption process. We were given multiple packets about Ethiopia and international adoptions. In addition, our caseworker talked with us about various things including what needs to be done before we go over to Ethiopia (for us and our child), what medical/emotional/social needs our child could face, how to develop proper attachment with our child, and what needs to be done after we come back with our child (birth certificate and finalization of citizenship). We met 4 other couples that are starting the international adoption process. One couple is adopting from Ethiopia. I really enjoyed getting to know them and learning about why they were adopting. I love learning about people and hearing their stories. We left with numerous “homework assignments” and we felt pretty overwhelmed. However, I think every couple felt this way. We are taking a break from the paperwork tonight, but will start filling out our international adoption agency’s application tomorrow. I’m so thankful that school is almost over. I will be able to devote more time to the paperwork and read more of the articles our caseworker gave us. Our next home study visit is on June 6. I believe our caseworker is going to start interviewing each of us separately. I think she will also take a tour of our house to make sure it’s safe for our children.
I’m so excited that we’ve started the paperwork, completed the required training, and already have our 2nd home study date set. It’s a long process, but I know it’ll be worth it. I just can’t wait to get our referral and actually see our child’s sweet little face. Obviously, I can’t wait to hug my child and tell him/her “Mommy loves you!” However, I know it will be awhile before I’ll be able to do that. J I feel so blessed that God has placed adoption on our hearts. Believe me when I say that I know this journey will not go perfectly or smoothly. I know there will be bumps in the road and at times we will become frustrated. In spite of these things, I am just so thankful that God is picking me to be this child’s mommy. I can’t wait to add another little one to our family. J
*While we were sitting in our training today, I was thinking about all the little kids overseas (and in the U.S.) who don’t have a parent to love on them. Many kids only have contact with a caregiver for an hour a day and that is not enough. These poor kids need a mommy and a daddy to love on them. Ugh..it just makes me so sad. When we got home tonight, I snuggled with Olivia on the couch. I put her to bed at her normal time, but I could hear her talking in her crib about 45 minutes later. I sat outside her door smiling at the sound of my little girl talking to herself in her crib. Then, I went into Olivia’s room and picked her up. I hugged her tightly and rocked her while thanking God for my precious little girl. I am so thankful for moments like this when I can love on my girl. I can’t wait to love on my future child and let him know how much I care about him too. I don’t normally go into Olivia’s room after I’ve put her to bed. But..today I just craved spending time with my daughter. I wanted to be close to her and just thank God for what he has given me.
A few people have asked me to post pictures of Olivia's birthday and birthday party. This week is very busy with report cards, conferences, and I'm getting my wisdom teeth out on Friday (yuck). So here are a few pictures to hold you over until I can do a post about her birthday party. It was supposed to be just a family birthday party, but then we decided to invite our Life groups and a few families who had little girls around the same time Olivia was born.
March 29, 2011-
Olivia saw her birthday present and she loved it. She played in the tent the entire day!
April 2, 2011-Olivia's birthday party
She made this precious face when someone new came in the door.
She really wanted cake at this point and did not want her picture taken.:)
I love how Olivia is looking up at Grace. She was thrilled to see Grace at the party.
I don't have time to post any other pictures. Hopefully, I'll post more next week! Enjoy!
March 29, 2011-
Olivia saw her birthday present and she loved it. She played in the tent the entire day!
April 2, 2011-Olivia's birthday party
She made this precious face when someone new came in the door.
She really wanted cake at this point and did not want her picture taken.:)
I love how Olivia is looking up at Grace. She was thrilled to see Grace at the party.
I don't have time to post any other pictures. Hopefully, I'll post more next week! Enjoy!
Olivia loves Elmo. She also loves Elmo's goldfish, Dorothy. When I got home from school today I saw this on the counter...
Jeremiah bought Olivia her very own Dorothy! I thought it was adorable that Jeremiah took Olivia to the pet store and bought her a "Dorothy." He even put the number 2 inside of the bowl because there is always some sort of object in the real Dorothy's bowl. How cute is my husband!?:)
After Olivia showed me "Dorty" she kept saying, "Livi hold you Dorty" over and over again. Before she went to bed tonight she said, "Nigh night Dorty" and blew her multiple kisses.
Since Olivia is turning two tomorrow, I thought it would be fun to kick off her birthday week with painting her toe nails for the first time.
As I painted her toes yesterday she just kept yelling, "Mommy...this toe too!" She was grinning from ear to ear as I painted her toenails. Jeremiah said that today she pointed to her toenails and said, "Daddy..pink toe toes." When I called them this afternoon she tried showing me her pink toenails through the phone. I heard her saying, "Mommy...Livi pink toes toes!" I put her on the counter next to "Dorothy" when we got home from the store tonight. She turned to the fish and said, "Dorty...Livi pink toe toes" and she squealed with delight.
Oh, I love how the simple things make my daughter so happy. How am I lucky enough to be this little girl's mommy!?
Tomorrow my baby will be 2. I took the day off and we are going to celebrate all day long!:)
Jeremiah bought Olivia her very own Dorothy! I thought it was adorable that Jeremiah took Olivia to the pet store and bought her a "Dorothy." He even put the number 2 inside of the bowl because there is always some sort of object in the real Dorothy's bowl. How cute is my husband!?:)
After Olivia showed me "Dorty" she kept saying, "Livi hold you Dorty" over and over again. Before she went to bed tonight she said, "Nigh night Dorty" and blew her multiple kisses.
Since Olivia is turning two tomorrow, I thought it would be fun to kick off her birthday week with painting her toe nails for the first time.
As I painted her toes yesterday she just kept yelling, "Mommy...this toe too!" She was grinning from ear to ear as I painted her toenails. Jeremiah said that today she pointed to her toenails and said, "Daddy..pink toe toes." When I called them this afternoon she tried showing me her pink toenails through the phone. I heard her saying, "Mommy...Livi pink toes toes!" I put her on the counter next to "Dorothy" when we got home from the store tonight. She turned to the fish and said, "Dorty...Livi pink toe toes" and she squealed with delight.
Oh, I love how the simple things make my daughter so happy. How am I lucky enough to be this little girl's mommy!?
Tomorrow my baby will be 2. I took the day off and we are going to celebrate all day long!:)
Olivia is going to be two years old at the end of this month. What a blessing she is to us! At church last week I was talking to a few women who have older kids. We were talking about how much fun two year old kids are and one lady said, "This age is perfect. They can talk with you but they don't give you much attitude." I laughed and said, "I agree. This is such a wonderful age, but I hear the phrase 'No No!' multiple times a day." Then I said, "But..I'm just so grateful to hear those words." We feel so blessed to have our daughter even on the days when she is screaming and throwing a big temper tantrum in public. Before she was born (and for numerous years before we even thought about trying to have a baby) we prayed that God would bless us with a healthy child and he did. Over the past two years, we've had some tough days. I wouldn't trade a single day because Olivia is the perfect child for us. That's why, I try really hard not to complain (sometimes I do..because I just need to vent:)) about Olivia. I know that I am more than blessed to have a healthy child who is testing her limits. You have no idea how many times I stop and thank God every day for this blessing he has given to us. Sometimes in the middle of her crying I stop and just smile. Right then and there I praise my God for giving me this little girl. I am just so thankful that I have a daughter who is healthy, happy, spunky, and full of energy. And...I can't believe that God trusted me enough to be be her mommy. I can't wait to celebrate her and the miracle that God created.
Our Christmas...
Our first Christmas celebration started off on Monday, December 20 with a dinner at Olive Garden. We met my Grandpa and my Aunt Robin's family there. It was wonderful to spend time with them because we rarely see them!
We had our little family Christmas on Christmas Eve morning. Olivia received just a few gifts from us but she was extremely excited about her baby stroller and apron. I thought the Elmo slippers would be a huge hit, but she doesn't like to wear them.
After Christmas Eve service in Champaign, we drove to Washington to my parents' house. We didn't get to their house until 10:00p.m. and I felt horrible! I love going to their house for Christmas Eve. We always have little appetizers, watch a Christmas movie, and then my dad reads Twas The Night Before Christmas to us. We thought Olivia would sleep on the way to Washington, but she decided to talk/laugh the entire way up! So, she was exhausted by 10:00 and went right to bed after he read the story.
I was like a little kid on Christmas morning. For some reason I couldn't sleep and I woke up at 5:30a.m. on Christmas morning! I took a shower and got ready before everyone else woke up. After everyone else got up, we ate breakfast and then started opening presents. My favorite gift was a Northface coat that I can wear when I'm on playground duty. Olivia received many great gifts but the shopping cart/food and tea set were her favorite gifts.
My parents and sisters were supposed to come over on December 23 to make Christmas cookies with us. I ended up getting the flu and couldn't make cookies with them. They decided to come and watch Olivia for me that day. I made Jeremiah sanitize everything before he left for work and I stayed away from them. I did not want my family to catch the flu. On Christmas morning, my dad woke up with a horrible stomach ache and felt sick. He started opening gifts with us and then went into his bedroom to sleep the rest of the day. I felt horrible! My dad LOVES Christmas. He starts talking about Christmas right after Thanskgiving and can't wait for the day to come. So, obviously, I felt like I ruined Christmas. It was still fun to hang out with my sisters and mom, but it wasn't the same without my dad. Since we didn't make cookies on the 23, we decided to make them on Christmas. Olivia had a blast rolling the dough and cutting cookies with us. All of us girls (and Jeremiah iced a few too) decorated the cookies while Olivia slept. After she woke up, we headed to Decatur for our next family Christmas.
Jeremiah's entire family was at his parents' house when we got there. It is always crazy because there are so many people, but we enjoy being with everyone! We started opening presents right away and Olivia decided to cuddle up with Uncle John and Aunt Kate. She sat with them the entire (2 hours) that we opened gifts! She loved watching everyone open gifts. Olivia received her Little Mermaid dolls and a cute bear. After opening gifts we played games and ate food the rest of the evening.
The next day we woke up and went to Jeremiah's parents' church. After that we had lunch and then just played all day long. Olivia absolutely adores her cousins and especially Gabe. I love that she is old enough to play with her cousins. It's always fun hanging with Jeremiah's entire family. We don't do it often enough.
I am so thankful that we are able to be with our families around Christmas. They are all such wonderful blessings to us!
Our first Christmas celebration started off on Monday, December 20 with a dinner at Olive Garden. We met my Grandpa and my Aunt Robin's family there. It was wonderful to spend time with them because we rarely see them!
We had our little family Christmas on Christmas Eve morning. Olivia received just a few gifts from us but she was extremely excited about her baby stroller and apron. I thought the Elmo slippers would be a huge hit, but she doesn't like to wear them.
After Christmas Eve service in Champaign, we drove to Washington to my parents' house. We didn't get to their house until 10:00p.m. and I felt horrible! I love going to their house for Christmas Eve. We always have little appetizers, watch a Christmas movie, and then my dad reads Twas The Night Before Christmas to us. We thought Olivia would sleep on the way to Washington, but she decided to talk/laugh the entire way up! So, she was exhausted by 10:00 and went right to bed after he read the story.
I was like a little kid on Christmas morning. For some reason I couldn't sleep and I woke up at 5:30a.m. on Christmas morning! I took a shower and got ready before everyone else woke up. After everyone else got up, we ate breakfast and then started opening presents. My favorite gift was a Northface coat that I can wear when I'm on playground duty. Olivia received many great gifts but the shopping cart/food and tea set were her favorite gifts.
My parents and sisters were supposed to come over on December 23 to make Christmas cookies with us. I ended up getting the flu and couldn't make cookies with them. They decided to come and watch Olivia for me that day. I made Jeremiah sanitize everything before he left for work and I stayed away from them. I did not want my family to catch the flu. On Christmas morning, my dad woke up with a horrible stomach ache and felt sick. He started opening gifts with us and then went into his bedroom to sleep the rest of the day. I felt horrible! My dad LOVES Christmas. He starts talking about Christmas right after Thanskgiving and can't wait for the day to come. So, obviously, I felt like I ruined Christmas. It was still fun to hang out with my sisters and mom, but it wasn't the same without my dad. Since we didn't make cookies on the 23, we decided to make them on Christmas. Olivia had a blast rolling the dough and cutting cookies with us. All of us girls (and Jeremiah iced a few too) decorated the cookies while Olivia slept. After she woke up, we headed to Decatur for our next family Christmas.
Jeremiah's entire family was at his parents' house when we got there. It is always crazy because there are so many people, but we enjoy being with everyone! We started opening presents right away and Olivia decided to cuddle up with Uncle John and Aunt Kate. She sat with them the entire (2 hours) that we opened gifts! She loved watching everyone open gifts. Olivia received her Little Mermaid dolls and a cute bear. After opening gifts we played games and ate food the rest of the evening.
The next day we woke up and went to Jeremiah's parents' church. After that we had lunch and then just played all day long. Olivia absolutely adores her cousins and especially Gabe. I love that she is old enough to play with her cousins. It's always fun hanging with Jeremiah's entire family. We don't do it often enough.
I am so thankful that we are able to be with our families around Christmas. They are all such wonderful blessings to us!
I haven't written a post in a LONG time and so many wonderful things/events/holidays have happened since my last post. However, I'm not going to write about any of those right now. The past many 21 months I have just treasured being a mommy to my sweet girl. I am trying to savor the little moments with my family and not let life pass by too quickly. Here is a moment that I don't want to forget.
Jeremiah knows that my favorite Disney movie is The Little Mermaid so he bought it for Olivia for Christmas. We rarely let her watch movies/TV, but the week before Christmas we let her watch part of the movie. The next night we let her watch the other part of the movie and both nights she could not take her eyes off of the TV. Everytime Eric came on the screen Olivia would scream, "Guy!" Jeremiah told her that his name is Eric and she started saying his name. We've talked about this movie and the mermaid quite a few times over the holidays because she received three Little Mermaid dolls for Christmas.
Fast forward to tonight and dinner with our little family at Za's. Our friends Erik and Jamie brought their family and some friends to Za's for dinner. We were already eating when they came into the restaurant. Jeremiah said, "Hi Erik" and they sat down close to us. A few minutes later Olivia started yelling, "Hey Guy! Hey Guy!" Olivia never calls anyone "guy" so I thought this was kind of strange at first. Then we realized that she remembered the guy from the movie and his name was Eric. We told Erik about this and everyone started laughing. Jeremiah asked Olivia to tell them what a mermaid says but she wouldn't do it. A few minutes later she yelled, "Hey Guy. Aah-a-aah(you know the song that Ariel sings)." Olivia thought she was pretty funny and started laughing/dancing in her seat. This was just an adorable moment that I don't want to forget.
I'm so thankful that I get to spend another 4 days with Olivia before I go back to work! :)
Jeremiah knows that my favorite Disney movie is The Little Mermaid so he bought it for Olivia for Christmas. We rarely let her watch movies/TV, but the week before Christmas we let her watch part of the movie. The next night we let her watch the other part of the movie and both nights she could not take her eyes off of the TV. Everytime Eric came on the screen Olivia would scream, "Guy!" Jeremiah told her that his name is Eric and she started saying his name. We've talked about this movie and the mermaid quite a few times over the holidays because she received three Little Mermaid dolls for Christmas.
Fast forward to tonight and dinner with our little family at Za's. Our friends Erik and Jamie brought their family and some friends to Za's for dinner. We were already eating when they came into the restaurant. Jeremiah said, "Hi Erik" and they sat down close to us. A few minutes later Olivia started yelling, "Hey Guy! Hey Guy!" Olivia never calls anyone "guy" so I thought this was kind of strange at first. Then we realized that she remembered the guy from the movie and his name was Eric. We told Erik about this and everyone started laughing. Jeremiah asked Olivia to tell them what a mermaid says but she wouldn't do it. A few minutes later she yelled, "Hey Guy. Aah-a-aah(you know the song that Ariel sings)." Olivia thought she was pretty funny and started laughing/dancing in her seat. This was just an adorable moment that I don't want to forget.
I'm so thankful that I get to spend another 4 days with Olivia before I go back to work! :)
My darling girl has not always been a wonderful sleeper. For the first 8 1/2 months of her life, she woke up at least 1 or 2 (and sometimes many more than that) times a night. For awhile now, she has been sleeping about 12 hours straight. It's amazing. I need my sleep. If you know me, you know that's true. :) For the past three nights, Olivia has started rubbing her eyes around bedtime. When I ask her if she is tired she says, "Yah..nigh, nigh." Then she proceeds to grab her duck and her baby. After that she either starts walking to her room or reaches for us to pick her up. We take her into her room, give her a few sips of milk, and then she says, "Nigh, nigh" and we lay her down. We don't hear another peep from her until the morning. The other night she wasn't feeling very well. I thought I would get some snuggle time and I started to rock Olivia. She looked up at me and said, "No..nigh, nigh." I hope this bedtime routine continues! The first few months were rough, but sticking to our routine/consistency definitely paid off! I love that my daughter asks to go to bed and I hope (and pray) that she will always be like this.:) If she is anything like me, she will continue to ask to go to bed-haha!
On another note, she started saying, "Of you" this summer. When I say, "I love you" that is her response. It may be the most precious thing I've ever heard.
Ah...the joys of being a mommy will never end. I adore her and am so lucky to be her mommy.:)
On another note, she started saying, "Of you" this summer. When I say, "I love you" that is her response. It may be the most precious thing I've ever heard.
Ah...the joys of being a mommy will never end. I adore her and am so lucky to be her mommy.:)
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