Olivia and I were have been so blessed to be a part of Community Bible Study since the beginning of the school year. CBS is an inter-denominational bible study for ladies of all ages. There are a number of CBS groups in the Houston area, but I belong to the NW chapter that meets on Wednesday mornings at the Foundry Church on Jones Rd. near 290.
The CBS program provides in-depth studies of books of the Bible, brought to us by core-group discussion time, devotionals, lectures and daily homework. This year, we studied Hebrews, Galatians and James. Next year, we are studying the books of Mark and Ephesians. I feel as though I have grown more spiritually, and have learned so much about how to live my life first for Jesus, others and then myself.
Even though I have been so fortunate to gain so much from the program, especially from those ladies in my core group, I cannot praise the CBS Children's program enough!! Olivia has learned so much about being a loving child and servant of God, and wears her heart proudly for Jesus from learning Bible stories, lessons, songs and memorizing scripture from her awesome CBS teachers.
CBS is moving to Thursday mornings next year, and since I had already registered her for school Tuesdays and Thursdays next year, she won't be back for another year. So sad. Today on their last day, the children performed songs they had learned all year. It's so funny to watch Olivia. She is just a HAM for crowds, and then of course, forgot most of her words and routine during the performance! She was one of the younger children on stage. But, I did enjoy hearing her sing all the words as we drove home, ate lunch and sat down to watch these videos.
Click here to watch video #1
Click here to watch video #2
Click here to watch video #3
Click here to watch video #4
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Ready, set, action! (updated)
Here are some fun videos of Olivia we've taken in the last month. I've had to upload them to our YouTube channel for viewing. Enjoy!
Olivia's Jammy Dance:
Click here to view
Olivia does Sesame Street's Count:
Click here to view
Olivia sings "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star":
Click here to view
Olivia at swim class. She is still not quite swimming on her own yet, but her latest accomplishment is simply just letting go!
Swim Video 1
Click here to view
Swim Video 2
Click here to view
Swim Video 3
Click here to view
Olivia's Jammy Dance:
Click here to view
Olivia does Sesame Street's Count:
Click here to view
Olivia sings "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star":
Click here to view
Olivia at swim class. She is still not quite swimming on her own yet, but her latest accomplishment is simply just letting go!
Swim Video 1
Click here to view
Swim Video 2
Click here to view
Swim Video 3
Click here to view
Friday, April 13, 2012
"Whatever you do, it all matters..."
Recently, there's been a lot of buzz between differing opinions on how much worldly and economic knowledge is experienced from being a stay-at-home mom vs. a working mom. My opinion on the matter was very easily formed, with imaginary fists in the air.
But then, I heard this song on the radio just today. Being a hormonal mom at the moment, I got teary-eyed. And then I got to thinking: we shouldn't be ranking our level of knowledge by how much we can relate to the economy section of the newspaper, but we should be looking at what's most important: earthly knowledge vs. eternal knowledge?
I hope you enjoy the song.
"Do Everything" by Steven Curtis Chapman, 2011
You're picking up toys on the living room floor
for the 15th time today
Matching up socks and sweeping up lost
Cheerios that got away
You put a baby on your hip and color on your lips
and head out the door
And while I may not know you I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes does it matter at all
We'll let me remind you it all matters just as long as you
Do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace
With every move that you make
And every little thing you do
Maybe you're that guy with the suit and tie
Maybe your shirt says your name
You may be hooking up mergers, cooking up burgers
But at the end of the day
Little stuff big stuff in between stuff
God sees it all the same
And while I may not know you I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes does it matter at all
We'll let me remind you it all matters just as long as you do
Everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you
To do every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace with every move that you make
And every little thing that you do
Well maybe you're sitting in math class
Maybe you're on a mission in the Congo
Maybe you're working at the office
Singing along with the radio
Maybe you're dining at a five star
Or feeding orphans in Myanmar
Anywhere and everywhere you are
Whatever you do it all matters
So do what you do and don't ever forget
to do
Everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace as you do
Everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace with every move that you make
And every little thing that you do
Every little thing you do
But then, I heard this song on the radio just today. Being a hormonal mom at the moment, I got teary-eyed. And then I got to thinking: we shouldn't be ranking our level of knowledge by how much we can relate to the economy section of the newspaper, but we should be looking at what's most important: earthly knowledge vs. eternal knowledge?
I hope you enjoy the song.
------------------------------
"Do Everything" by Steven Curtis Chapman, 2011
You're picking up toys on the living room floor
for the 15th time today
Matching up socks and sweeping up lost
Cheerios that got away
You put a baby on your hip and color on your lips
and head out the door
And while I may not know you I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes does it matter at all
We'll let me remind you it all matters just as long as you
Do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace
With every move that you make
And every little thing you do
Maybe you're that guy with the suit and tie
Maybe your shirt says your name
You may be hooking up mergers, cooking up burgers
But at the end of the day
Little stuff big stuff in between stuff
God sees it all the same
And while I may not know you I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes does it matter at all
We'll let me remind you it all matters just as long as you do
Everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you
To do every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace with every move that you make
And every little thing that you do
Well maybe you're sitting in math class
Maybe you're on a mission in the Congo
Maybe you're working at the office
Singing along with the radio
Maybe you're dining at a five star
Or feeding orphans in Myanmar
Anywhere and everywhere you are
Whatever you do it all matters
So do what you do and don't ever forget
to do
Everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace as you do
Everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace with every move that you make
And every little thing that you do
Every little thing you do
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thump-thump, thump-thump...
My last post was about how my heart melted when Olivia said her first "thank you" without prompting. So, I thought I would continue the heart theme into today's post.
I couple weeks ago, Ethan and I were able to get away for a weekend to our favorite spot, Hyatt Lost Pines Resort in Bastrop, TX. This place is magical. So magical that your blood pressure immediately drops down to relaxation mode the moment you step out of your car. Ethan had just finished up an amazingly busy week at work, along with some tough sleepless nights with Olivia, and I had just finished planning Olivia's 2nd birthday party, so we were ready for some virgin pina coladas by the pool asap. A few days before the trip, I received an email from the resort stating that they were hosting a half-marathon & 5K race with 2,500 participants the morning after we arrived. Set-up would begin at 5am, so noise would begin at 5am. I think one day I may register for this race, but this weekend was all about my favorite S-word...SLEEP! Think...low bpm....with Benadryl before bed.
As soon as we arrived at the resort Friday, along with 2,500 ladies with oh-so-awesomely toned legs, arms and abs, I rushed to the front desk to request a room AWAY from the start and finish line of the race. I was so desperate for sleep, that I almost pointed out the bags underneath my eyes. But I didn't. Did I mention how much I love this resort? Well, they not only honored my request, but they upgraded us to a king room with a balcony facing our favorite part of the resort: the ADULTS-ONLY spa pool.
Our weekend consisted of eating, sleeping, laying out by the pool, napping by the pool, a nature hike, an organized star-gazing excursion, and Ethan even fit in a couple workouts at the spa gym for us. We typically don't travel with Olivia, but we will go back to the Hyatt in the fall with her. They have an amazing family pool area. We can't wait to go back. We didn't take as many pictures this time since we took so many last year, but here are a few:
I couple weeks ago, Ethan and I were able to get away for a weekend to our favorite spot, Hyatt Lost Pines Resort in Bastrop, TX. This place is magical. So magical that your blood pressure immediately drops down to relaxation mode the moment you step out of your car. Ethan had just finished up an amazingly busy week at work, along with some tough sleepless nights with Olivia, and I had just finished planning Olivia's 2nd birthday party, so we were ready for some virgin pina coladas by the pool asap. A few days before the trip, I received an email from the resort stating that they were hosting a half-marathon & 5K race with 2,500 participants the morning after we arrived. Set-up would begin at 5am, so noise would begin at 5am. I think one day I may register for this race, but this weekend was all about my favorite S-word...SLEEP! Think...low bpm....with Benadryl before bed.
As soon as we arrived at the resort Friday, along with 2,500 ladies with oh-so-awesomely toned legs, arms and abs, I rushed to the front desk to request a room AWAY from the start and finish line of the race. I was so desperate for sleep, that I almost pointed out the bags underneath my eyes. But I didn't. Did I mention how much I love this resort? Well, they not only honored my request, but they upgraded us to a king room with a balcony facing our favorite part of the resort: the ADULTS-ONLY spa pool.
Our weekend consisted of eating, sleeping, laying out by the pool, napping by the pool, a nature hike, an organized star-gazing excursion, and Ethan even fit in a couple workouts at the spa gym for us. We typically don't travel with Olivia, but we will go back to the Hyatt in the fall with her. They have an amazing family pool area. We can't wait to go back. We didn't take as many pictures this time since we took so many last year, but here are a few:
First thing after check-in: lounge by the pool with a cold drink in hand. Ethan's in the water getting a tube to float the lazy river area.
Morning hike along the Colorado River
Ethan thought this looked cool along our hike.
Post-race party.
Last time at the pool before checking-out, and back into reality.
------------------------------------------------------
When I ask Olivia where Jesus lives, she responds with "In O-via's heart!" So as Easter came around, she was all about sharing her love and heart for Jesus!
By the way, Ms. Jacque is Olivia's Sunday-school teacher, and she is in love with her!
We had so many fun activities for Olivia to enjoy leading up to Easter. Olivia had a total of three egg hunts, so by the time we arrived for one at Grammy and Papa's house Sunday afternoon, she knew exactly what to do. Earlier that day, we had a wonderful time worshiping at church and seeing all of our friends. We didn't have Sunday school, so we had lots of extra time in the morning making banana pancakes, smoothies, bacon and taking pictures of Olivia in her Easter outfit. Here are some pictures from this memorable weekend:
Dyeing Easter eggs!
Neighborhood egg hunt
Easter Sunday morning
Easter dinner and egg hunt at Grammy's and Papa's
__________________________________________
Thump-thump...thump-thump...
My heart isn't the only one beating in my body.
After a long time of trying, and only a few months away from beginning fertility testing, we found out a couple months ago that we are pregnant! We had our first pre-natal appointment a couple months back to confirm the pregnancy with an ancient sonogram machine, and this past Monday, we were able to actually hear Ziggy #2's heart beating at 154 bpm! Ziggy is short for zygote, by the way....
Every single day, I thank God for this amazing blessing. Of course, we were hoping to be pregnant last year, but looking back, I understand that I couldn't predict God's timing. I totally get it now. We actually found out we were pregnant the week after my aunt finished her radiation treatments! If that's not perfect timing, I don't know what is. But, I trust that He heard our very first prayers about it, but just wanted me to hold on. This was nothing but a God-thing.
So here are the details:
- Ziggy #2 is due on October 31 (future birthday party themes - DONE!)
- There's only ONE in there!
- Yes, we are finding out in June if it's a boy or girl
- No, Ethan and I are not discussing whether we are hoping for one over the other
- No, I haven't had any "morning sickness", but nausea is pretty prevalent around all sorts of smells. I've had headaches & fatigue galore. I can't stand the sight of raw fish or raw shrimp, but raw chicken is okay this time around. Preparing and then sitting down to eat the same meal is rather difficult. I am in love with fruit, chips and smoothies.
- I have a slight baby bump and it appeared much earlier this time around. Elastic is my friend.
- When you ask Olivia what she's going to be, she responds with "A big sister! Mommy have baby!"
We have an ultrasound scan next week on April 19th. I will keep posting updates about Ziggy #2, but please continue to pray for good health. Thank you so much!
Monday, March 26, 2012
My Heart Melts
This morning, Olivia and I took a walk around Coles Crossing Park with a good friend. We had bought a Groupon to Smart Drinks, and needed to use it soon, so Olivia and I headed there after our walk and play time at the park. I ordered a large smoothie and had the guy put some of it in a separate smaller cup for Olivia to have.
The guy and I were looking at a whey protein mix for Ethan, and all of a sudden, Olivia looks up at me from taking a long sip of her smoothie and says, "thank you momma." My heart melted. When she was itty bitty, we always spoke the words "thank you" and "you're welcome" in hopes of one day she would say them when she started talking. Since she started talking, we would always remind her of when to say those nice words and ask her to repeat them. But, she had never said it on her own without any prompting until today!
I have those days that can be oh so demanding and my energy is zapped by 1pm, but all of that is nothing compared to the joy I felt today with Olivia. Just one of those snapshot moments I will always cherish. I love you, Olivia.
The guy and I were looking at a whey protein mix for Ethan, and all of a sudden, Olivia looks up at me from taking a long sip of her smoothie and says, "thank you momma." My heart melted. When she was itty bitty, we always spoke the words "thank you" and "you're welcome" in hopes of one day she would say them when she started talking. Since she started talking, we would always remind her of when to say those nice words and ask her to repeat them. But, she had never said it on her own without any prompting until today!
I have those days that can be oh so demanding and my energy is zapped by 1pm, but all of that is nothing compared to the joy I felt today with Olivia. Just one of those snapshot moments I will always cherish. I love you, Olivia.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Happy Birthday, Olivia!
This past Sunday, we celebrated Olivia Mei's 2nd birthday! It was a great day from start to finish. These images below are just snippets of the pure joy and happiness from my most favorite small person in the world.
Good morning, birthday girl!
Morning hugs from daddy
What's this?!
A little smile, please!
Getting ready for church
Ms. Jacque, Olivia's teacher since 11 months. We are SO SAD to leave your class!
Thank you daddy for the balloons!
Having a chip
Me and my two besties.
Love this!
Forget the fork!
Helmet for her new tricycle
Great Grandma "GG" came in from OKC
We love you Olivia!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Dear Olivia
Dear Olivia,
Two years ago, Daddy and I were blessed to see you come into this world. And in that moment, our lives changed forever and we couldn't ever imagine life without you and your contagious smile. Daddy was literally swept off his feet and changed all of your diapers in the hospital because mommy was too weak. And mommy could just look at you forever holding you while you slept so peacefully.
From your first two years here, you might only have memories of learning to crawl, walk, run and seeing Elmo at Sesame Street Live. But mommy and daddy witness so many miracles and happenings each day with you that we will never forget and want you to know when you get older, so that one day you will be able to pass them onto your little brothers and sister and your own children....and maybe have a little smile or laugh about. Happy Birthday, sweet Olivia Mei. Mommy and Daddy love you. You are our favorite small person in the world. Here are just a few things that we love about you, Olivia:
- We love your smile and soft skin.
- We love the way that you run to us at full-force to give us a hug and kiss. You know that we are always there to give you a safe landing.
- We love the way you love on Purple Bear and other baby dolls. One day, you are going to be such a sweet and caring older sister and mommy.
- We love the way you try to be polite, especially when you scream "No thank you!" when you are opposing something.
- We love how when we say our goodnights, you immediately respond with, "No crying." She definitely knows that mommy and daddy don't like midnight house-calls.
- We love watching you dance to Taylor Swift songs and sing, "Someday, I'll be...(blah....blah)...why you gotta be so mean?"
- We love how you know that Jesus lives in your heart and that when we pray, you always include your friends' names.
- We love all the words you say that just sound SO CUTE coming from a toddler, such as: "Otay," "Alrighty." The other day you wanted to stay outside to play with daddy so you said to mommy, "Go inside and cook dinner, mommy." Ha!
- We love the way you strut down the hallway with your shopping cart, arms fully loaded with bags and dress-shoes on. When we ask where you are going, you say "HEB."
- We love the way you find the oddest of places to chill and read a book
- We love how you like to wait at the front door in the morning to watch the school bus pass by and say "Bye bye friends."
- We love watching you play in your kitchen and when we ask what you're cooking, you always respond with "macaroni and fruit snacks."
____________________
Mommy and Daddy love you Olivia and we wish you the best second birthday! We just don't have enough kisses to give to your sweet self. We can't wait to see what the future brings to our little family!
Love,
Mommy and Daddy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)