Just remembering...

I was going through some of my photo files tonight and found these pictures to share.

Can you spot the boys playing in Dad's closet?

Ok, this one is a little freaky!

"What, Atlanta says I can't water my plants during the day? What about watering my pool?"

Tranverse or Oblique?

Apparently, Abigail is in a difficult position. She is either lying transverse or oblique inside of my tummy. Either way, she can't be birthed how I had hoped. Looks likes another c-section for me unless she turns soon. Since I'm 35 weeks, my midwife and nurse tend to think she's made up her mind and won't turn. I occassionally see Dr. Thorne (he is awesome!), who is notorious for being the best at "baby turning". Maybe he'll help Abigail when I go in for an exam on Monday. If not, look for another McGinnis baby to be born around July 4th.

What the World Eats

I found this to be very interesting. Look at the cost of food per family and then spend some time looking at the specific items on the table.

Only 5 more weeks!

I'm officially 35 weeks pregnant. Only five more weeks to go. Not that I have a real choice in the matter but I would like it very much if Abigail waited just two more weeks before making her appearance. Selfishly, I have much to do before she arrives. I want to finish this week of VBS, travel on our planned trip to Memphis (Mitch & me only - my mom is driving up to keep the boys), and do the last minute touches to her room (tidying up her drawers & closet so I can get a handle on where her things are located). However, my biggest prayer is that, if she does indeed come early, I hope she doesn't decide to do so when I'm up in the air on the plane to Memphis next week. Fortunately, it's only a hour and a half flight. That might make a cool news story but I'd rather be another boring, yet healthy, hospital statisitic.

WHEN WILL IT END??? AHHHHHH!!!!!!

It has almost been a year.....a year that has brought no improvement in the area of putting Andrew to bed at night. HE STILL SCREAMS AND CRIES AT THE DOOR WHEN WE TELL HIM GOODNIGHT! It is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO frustrating! He tells us things through the door that we know are just tactics he's using to get us to open up and let him out:

I need to go pee pee!
My toe hurts!
My eye hurts - I need ice!
Why you close the door?
I want you to hold me!
My milk is all gone.

All the while, Luke is in his crib (in the same room) going to sleep. He has grown use to Andrew's nighttime routine. I wish I knew WHAT ELSE TO DO. Do you ever get tired of praying? It's been ALMOST A YEAR! When will it change? When will I be able to leave the room without him chasing me to the door, only to have me have to "push" him back in to keep him from coming out? AHHHHHHH! He's three years old. Maybe I'm expecting too much. Maybe I'm comparing him to ALL the other three year olds I know whose parents have told me they have no trouble at night. Maybe I rocked him too much when he was little. We do all the loving and reassuring we can before turning out the light. We have THE SAME routine everynight, too.....sit on the floor and pick out two books which we then read, sing a few songs, pray and then turn lights out. I have been rubbing his head for only a few seconds but he never relaxes because he's squatting in his bed, waiting to leap out after me towards the door. Once I've closed the door, either Mitch or I stand in front of it holding the doorknob still so he can't get out. He thinks we've locked it but then he is quick to kneel down and peek under the door to see our toes. He KNOWS we're there, but it brings no comfort to him. He usually ends up sticking his fingers out from under the door in effort to get our attention. We just stand there and make ABSOLUTELY no noise until he finally gives up and retreats to his bed. I have no trouble standing firm but it still breaks my heart.

AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dancing with frogs

Our friend, Kacie, has been collecting frogs that she's won when playing a game at an amusement park. Since getting married, she's decided to give away her collection. So, Andrew and Luke each got a spotted frog that hangs around their waist and neck. They love them! So much so that they like to put them on and dance around the room to music. Thanks, Kacie!

Overwhelmed

I'm deep into the planning process for VBS. We're expecting around 70 kids to attend and I'M IN CHARGE.....ahhhhhh! Therefore, posting may be light over the next week.

Help from Chrissy

Our sweet friend, Chrissy, helps Luke fill up the water balloons. Chrissy might be Andrew's teacher next year....let's pray she is!

Memorial Day 2007

How did you spend Memorial Day? We spent it relaxing at home with one another and then headed over to Chad and Chrissy's house to grill steaks and have a water ballon fight. The boys were being naughty!

Practicing

Andrew is potty trained, for the most part. Doing #1 is no problem....he rushes to lift the lid, flush, close the lid and wash his hands. However, performing #2 on the potty is still a struggle. Pediatricians, midwives, mothers, advice-givers all say pretty much the same thing - that it's scary to see a "part of themselves" go down through the hole in the toilet. Oh well......we'll keep trying. We've done all we can to intice him -candy, choo choo trains, stickers, trips to ChuckeCheese, etc. Nothing is working. Prayer is more powerful so I'll stick to that.

Luke has been curiously watching his older brother use the potty so he has become quite interested in doing #1 by himself. Tonight, he let us know that it was his turn. I caught it on camera. He wasn't successful but it was cute and we're gonna encourage him to keep trying, even though he's only 18 months old. Don't you appreciate the vibrant color I caught on film???....sorry!

Callaway Gardens

Mom, Aunt Norma, the boys, and I, visited Callaway Gardens for a few short hours this afternoon. The butterfly house was Andrew's favorite but Luke liked playing with the dirt in the vegetable garden. We stopped to pose for a picture at the butterfly center exit.

Mom & Norma visit

My mother and her sister, my Aunt Norma, are here for a two day visit. Mom lives a little over two hours away so I love getting the chance to see her and have her spend time with her grandsons. Aunt Norma lives in Los Angeles, CA, so I don't get to see her as often as I'd like....this is a treat! Here, they are enjoying looking through Andrew's "first year" scrapbook together.

Baby shower

The ladies of our church gave me a baby shower Thursday night. It was great to gather and have fun eating and chatting together. We played a few games and had encouraging conversation. My mother-in-law, Cheryl, and sister-in-law, Valerie (and neice, Ella), joined me in the fun of opening gifts and seeing all that God gave to Abigail to start her "life" journey.

*Yawn*

T - totally tired
I - in need of rest
R - relaxation is a must
E - empty of energy
D - dozing as I type

Anyone? Bueller? Anyone?

Bus

It's time to get on the bus!

Pictures to Post

Just took a few pictures over the past few days and wanted to share...

I know what you're thinking...she's about to pop! Believe me, I've heard it enough already- from friends and strangers alike. Yesterday, after a stranger made mention of how large I was, I said, "Oh, I'm not pregnant." You should have seen the look of shock on her face. Priceless! I just couldn't resist. Yes, of course I told her that I was indeed with child (but I still wanted to slap her).

Like loves eating the blue bubble gum flavored ice pops. I wish he understood that it falls off the stick if you only bite it on one side. He's learning.

Andrew is a ham for the camera. Just after sitting next to his brother, he said, "Mom, take a picture of how cute we are, please."

Is this picture appropriate for the Internet? Luke likes to lay on his tummy and pretend to swim when taking a bath.

No comment.

Sing: "For the seafood lover in you"

We went out to eat at Red Lobster tonight in celebration of a family birthday (Mitch's mom). Andrew has always been fascinated with lobsters and tonight he got the opportunity to touch one. This also makes the grocery trip to Super Wal-Mart or Publix a little easier since he knows he can get a peek at the live seafood!

Nightlight & more

Andrew is STILL crying at his bedroom door when we walk out and close it at bedtime. He often cries that he's scared. There are two nightlights in his room but we figured they might not be bright enough....so, we took him to Lowe's tonight to buy him a brighter nightlight. I think it's way too bright for his room, shining right into Luke's crib but we're gonna try it for a while. Oh, and Andrew still cried at the door upon closing.....*sigh*.

So, after both of the boys fell asleep (around 8:45 p.m.), we were settling on the couch to get ready to watch a rented movie. We heard some loud talking outside our front door and opened it to find "those neighbor's kids". You know....those kids whose parents let them run loose in the neighborhood with no supervision. Here it was 9:00 at night and these kids were in our front yard, talking loudly outside of the boys' room. Mitch beat them to the doorbell and, upon opening, a little boy reached into his nasty backpack and then put out his hand,

Boy: "One cookie for you."
Mitch: "Thanks"
Boy: "That will be five dollars"
Mitch: "Nah, I ain't givin' you money for one cookie" (Mitch hands it back)

The boy takes the cookie back and starts to holler at his sister across our yard, but Mitch quickly intervened and firmly said, "Shhhhh! Be quiet! My kids are sleeping behind that window!"

I wonder how many other people were presented with the same cookie, accepted it, and then handed it back.

Who's the redneck now? Oh, I love my neighborhood.

Routine visit

I sat in the waiting room today for only about 15 minutes before my midwife called me back to her office for a routine visit. I think I fell asleep during that 15 minutes.....just like I feel I could do now as I type. Everything checked out fine: weight, heartbeat, belly measurement, urine, etc. Just a boring pregnancy - the kind every woman prays for. My midwife figured that Abigail is laying across my belly with her head at my left thigh. I won't get a second ultrasound unless a problem is detected. I am feeling very uncomfortable....can't catch my breath, my lower back is in constant pain, and I feel dizzy most of the time. At least I'm not throwing up. Only eight more weeks.

New blog to love

I love this blog. I found it through my friend, Kirstin, who is also a mother to triplets like the author of the blog. Check it out, moms!

Turkey Grass

Funny....Mitch is mowing the lawn right now and our "neighbor" just knocked on our door to bring us a large frozen turkey. Hmmmmm.......

Our kids playing together

My friend, Christy, has recently moved just 30 minutes away from me. We got together this past Friday for play and lunch. Our four children played so well together and the food was delicious, thanks to Christy's husband, Allan. She and I met when entering the seventh grade and have been close friends ever since. We both married pastors so we have common stories and lives. Love you, Christy!

Presbytery

The quarterly regional meeting of presbytery was held today, hosted by our church. Our women's ministry was in charge of the food for breakfast and for lunch. What a treat to serve the elders. It was touching to see all the men in our presbytery come together to worship, preach, and handle business in such a orderly and God glorifying fashion. Four men went through examination for either ordination, licensure, or both. Having gone through this with Mitch's four years ago during his examination to become a pastor, I was familiar with the details of the tough questions and challenging charges. However, it was neat to relax and sit in to listen to other men be examined and asked about theology and other positions facing Christians (particulary PCA members) today. It made me thankful that we hold our pastors to such a high standard of accountability. Most of all, I enjoyed singing the great hymns of the Faith together. There's nothing like being in a large room singing along with a crowd of people who are excited about the Gospel. Praise God.

Having more fun

Andrew "hamming it up" for the camera.

Luke likes to push the stroller in the driveway. Peek-a-Boo!

"I'll have what he's having...I think"

Random thoughts

Just read in the newspaper yesterday that there is finally an end in sight, hopefully with all the answers. The producers of LOST (on ABC) have said that only three seasons remain. The show will air its final episode in 2010. I've never been so addicted.

I've gotten eight pages done in my scrapbook over the past two days. I'm quite proud. I'm not completely caught up yet, though. The most current date in my latest album is October 2006. I think I need to plan another scrap party with the gals from church.

Only two weeks remain before school is out for the summer. I think we're going to be visiting the pool quite frequently. Maybe it's time for swimming lessons for Andrew. I'll keep you posted. I might decide to wait one more year since I'll have a one year old next summer rather than a newborn.

Found some friends from college tonight. You know those mass emails that one person sends to you with the listing of all their other friends in the TO box? What fun to catch up and chat online.

The weather has been amazing here. It's been warm and windy. I love it! I hope it stays like this for a while 'cause it sure feels good to a fat pregnant woman.

Luke is starting to talk. He's able to say, "please, juice, out, stop, and bye-bye". He's been using a fork and spoon since turning one four months ago. He likes to eat the top of cheese off of his pizza slices and peel apart the bread on his PB&J sandwiches, making a huge jelly mess. I think it helps that he hears and sees his older brother doing and saying these things.

Andrew is starting to really rebel against naptime and bedtime. I am SO consistent yet he still cries and puts up a fight at his bedroom door when I close it. He shares a room with Luke and I guess Luke has gotten used to falling asleep with Andrew crying. Eventually, Andrew makes his way to his bed, pouting, but I wonder when it will ever change. He's three.....I still think he needs a nap or else he falls apart by 6:30 at night. If not a nap, he needs quiet time....away from me.

It's late....bed is calling.

Amy, my crazy friend

I've known my sweet and crazy friend, Amy, for six years. She and I have a fun friendship. When we see a cheesy church sign, we call to record it on each other's voicemail. We always laugh histerically when together or when we're chatting on the phone. She teases me about how I joke with telemarketers (sp?) and I like reminding her of her happy love for her husband, considering they have five children, all before she reached the age of 28. She now lives a little over an hour from me in Atlanta but we still take the time to see each other when we can. Her second born, Samuel, wrote the journal entry below. I thought it was so cute that I just had to take a picture of it. Maybe Amy will put it in the scrapbook to embarass him one day.

Having some pain

I've been having some pre-labor contractions this morning. They have been with me off and on for about two hours now. Makes it hard to walk and talk and keep up with two little ones. I've still got 9.5 weeks left so I'm not worried about anything.....these contractions just hurt!

Blogging

After reading Amber's and Crissy's blog, I sometimes feel that I need to write more spiritual postings. I tend to lean toward posting pictures of the family and simply typing about "the things we did today." However, I am thankful God has blessed me with such a wonderful family and that I am able to stay at home with the boys. That's my life and it is good. Glorifying God is the purpose of life and I pray that I am living and speaking truth to my children and husband as well as enjoying Him through the blessings he's bestowed. So, here are a few pictures of my boys enjoying life while doing "their thing".

Blooming

Here's what's blooming beside our house.

Who are the "people" in your neighborhood?

We had a nest with four baby birds in it over the past month. They have all moved on and left for college, I guess. They left behind a nasty nest and a lot of poop on our front door and stoop. Mitch had the delight of cleaning it up a few weeks ago. However, as Andrew and I were watering the plants on the front porch this afternoon, I discovered ANOTHER nest - this time in the hanging fern. It contained four eggs. Andrew is super excited about it, although he's upset he can't touch the eggs. We can't wait for them to be born and now we know why we keep seeing the same bird fly back and forth from the porch to a small tree in our yard. I'll keep you updated.....

Bathtime Buddies

Luke and Andrew enjoy bath time. Here they are giggling at each other because they both just wiped off their bubble beards.

GA Renaissance Festival

Mitch and I want to take a day to visit this. Anyone ever been to one similar? Tell me about your experience. Is it worth the ticket price?

Home at Last

Home! It's so sweet! We got to do all the things we planned to do with the boys while in Chattanooga and Atlanta. Today, the highlight for Andrew wasn't visiting the CNN Center or going to Bicentennial Park or seeing old friends but rather riding MARTA - one of the cheapest things we did (and had to do). Anyway, I promised more pictures so here they are!

Chattanooga

We decided to proceed with our vacation plans and bring the boys to Chattanooga. It seems it was a good idea because their sickness has passed, finally! Yesterday we visited the Tennessee Aquarium where we saw beautiful sea and river live. Today, we took them on a train ride at the Tennessee Valley Railroad , where we rode through the mountains, over bridges, and through tunnels. They loved it! While there, we were surprised to get a sneak peek of Thomas, who is in town making a three day stop for all the children. After naptime today, we went swimming in the indoor hotel pool. I think it's been their favorite treat so far! Tomorrow, we are taking them to the Creative Discovery Museum so look for more pics to come!

Sick

Both boys are sick.
Fever comes and goes.
No appetite.
Whiny.
Clingy.
Sleepy.
Pedialite.
Vacation is booked for tomorrow.
Don't know if we'll be able to go.
Postings might be few.

This Afternoon

This is what's happening at our house this afternoon.

This morning

This is what's happening at our house this morning. How many legs can you count?

Provision

To copy my friend Crissy S., I have also decided to write a post about God's provision. We have finally moved into a house that we love, suits our size, and is affordable (?). After putting the boys to bed last night, Mitch and I started looking through some old photographs from his childhood. It was funny to recognize pieces of furniture in the background of the pictures. His parents have held on to a few of the items from the 1970s. It caused me to look around my own house and count my blessings. I made a mental list of all the "things" God has provided for our home (free of charge):

2 leather recliners from Matt & Heather
2 new end tables from the Morris family
2 new lamps from John & Peggy
a secretary desk and rug from Reggie & Carolee
a china hutch from Mitch's parents
a 4 piece bedroom suit (queen) from Mitch's parents
a round oak dinner table, that seats six, from Mitch's parents
a love seat from Mitch's parents
a couch from Hoke & Amy
a treadmill from Hoke & Amy
a computer desk from Sara & David
a curio cabinet from my sister
two cribs from Kirstin
a highchair from Kirstin
a changing table from Kirstin
a twin bed from Dorothy and Emma
a chest of drawers from my grandmother
a chest of drawers from Quinn & Kim
a chest of drawers from the Sizemore family
a hope chest given to me by my parents
a twin bed from George and Robin
a quilt rack from Billy & Kittie
a washer and dryer from a co-worker in Birmingham
a gliding rocking chair from Tim & Nancy
a patio set (table and four chairs) from George & Robin
a charcoal grill from Mitch's parents
a large clothes hamper from Luther & Sue
a 32 inch color TV from Mitch's grandparents
millions of toys from friends & family
bags and bags of clothes from friends & family

I think we only counted two things that we actually purchased. Our house has been furnished in love!

Mud!

Luke likes playing in the mud. I like letting him be a kid.

Outside Play

The weather was warm this afternoon.....captured all the fun on camera.

Our house guests are growing! They flew away just after snapping this photo. There are four in the basket but you can only see three. You can also see all the bird poop they've left on my front door!

Baskin Robbins Ice Cream $.31 scoop

On Wednesday, May 2, Baskin Robbins will be selling ice cream for only $.31 a scoop. Click here for more information. Funds will go to support The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation .

Victims of the VT Tragedy

The New York Times has posted a pictorial directory of sorts on the victims of Monday's tragedy at Virginia Tech.

I passed!

I drank the dreaded glucose drink yesterday to be tested for gestational diabetes and passed with flying colors (scored a 91)! Glad I've never had to endure what it's like to be pregnant with diabetes. I am very thankful.

My midwife cleared me to go on a four day trip with my husband when I reach the 36 week mark. It's an eight hour drive so she suggested we fly. Gotta find two cheap tickets out of Atlanta to Memphis and back. She said that she wants to really start things rolling when I get back from that trip since I'm doing the VBAC thing. They don't want me to get too big. I'll be drinking lots of herbal tea, going on many walks, and doing whatever else she "prescribes" so that this baby might make an early (yet healthy) appearance in the full term stage.

Like Father Like Son

A little blurry but adorable, nonetheless.

Lazy Brothers

Gosh, I just can't put my camera down! My boys are just too cute....but I'm just a little bias.

Hide-N-Seek

"Mom and Dad invited our friends from church over tonight to talk about some stuff from that thick book Dad likes to read out of. Amelia came with her mom and dad so we decided to sneak away from the grown-ups and play hide-n-seek. As you can tell, Mom found us!"

Where's Waldo?

Another great post by the gals at Girltalk.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR WIFE PULLS OUT THE "HONEY DO" LIST.