Blessings From Above
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
A Crazy 10 Minutes that felt like 10 hours....
This morning was going so great. Laylie slept in till 7:00am, we got ready together, ate a yummy breakfast, and read some books on the couch while snuggling. I decided that I would go out and vacuum the car before we started our outings such as the San Diego Zoo. While I was vacuuming the car, Laylie was playing so nicely in the front seat with the car keys. I got done vacuuming, shut the back door, and then I heard the BEEP that you hear when you LOCK the car. Oh my goodness!!! Laylie is locked inside the car in the garage and we can't find our SPARE KEY!!! What do I do?? How can I get her to unlock it?? Will she be ok?? My first attempt is yelling through the closed car window, “Laylie, get the keys for Mama and push the button.” No such luck!! I run to get the phone inside the house (yes…my cell phone is locked inside the car, too) I call my amazing super hero husband to help us. I say, “I locked Laylie in the car and we don’t have a spare key….my cell phone and AAA card are in the car.” Calmly and so slowly Jason replies, “No worries hunny I will call AAA and everything will be fine.” He does not know that by this time Laylie is sobbing into her little blankie and is scared because Mama can’t get her out. Thank goodness she had her comfort item with her and a cup of cheerios. As I wait for the longest 5 minutes of my life I sing to her, play peek-a-boo through the window and try to keep her calm. 5 minutes pass by and a AAA truck SPEEDS up to the rescue!! The sweetest toothless and most loving man opens the door within seconds and I pull little Laylie close into my arms and we are back together forever!! What a crazy 10 minutes of life... and with my stress levels so high I think I lost 10 years of life. I have been dealing with a headache all day but we still headed to the Zoo for a super fun day with friends. Note to self – Don’t let kids play with car keys; get spare keys on hand; and thank the Lord for AAA. What a day!!!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Laylie's a BIG girl now...
Last week Laylie began letting Jason and I know when she had go to the bathroom. "Pee pee" she would say in her cute little voice, and sometimes, "poo poo". So we started to ask her, "do you want to go on the toilet?" a few times she would say, "yes" and would run to the bathroom... but no such luck. Well, this weekend I knew that she was almost ready to start using the potty so I went out to Target and got her a cute little pink toilet to help and some gummy bears for a reward. YES!!! This morning Laylie went #2 in the toilet!!! She was eating breakfast when she let me know she wanted to go to the toilet. She was sitting there while I was reading her a book and all of sudden there was the surprise! She was able to get a gummy bear and flush her #2 bye bye! Way to go big girl!! We are so proud of you and what can you say...16 months and going potty in the big potty..her parents are amazed!!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Happy Birthday, Mindy!!
Hello everyone! This is Jason. Today is my wife's birthday! (Well, actually tomorrow, for all you night owls.) She is such an amazing person!! I am without a doubt so incredibly lucky and blessed to be married to such a woman, so I turned to the Bible (Proverbs 31) to help me describe to you all just how incredible Melinda Grace White is. So without further ado, I present to you all, my interpretation of the Bible's "Hymn to a Good Wife". Happy Birthday, Mindy!!
Hymn to a Good Wife
"A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds."
A good woman IS hard to find! In fact, I can't even take credit for finding Mindy. Wonderful family friends of ours, the Andersons, knew us each individually for many years and watched us grow up. And almost 7 years ago, they introduced us - the rest, they say, is history. Amazing, wonderful, fun :-) Also, I roughly calculated the value of Mindy if she were a diamond, and came up with $35,916,543,976.82 - but this verse hit the nail on the head, because Mindy is worth far more than that!
"Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it."
I trust Mindy with absolutely everything - from simple things, to complex things; from the layout and decor of our house, to where we should spend our vacations; and most importantly, with raising our beautiful daughter Laylie - and I never ever ever have reason to regret it. Mindy is absolutely amazing!
"Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long."
Mindy has the most tender, caring, giving, loving, others-focused heart I have ever seen and she always treats me with gentleness, kindness, patience, respect, and love... she has made the past 5 1/2 years of marriage pure bliss!
"She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing."
Whether you interpret this verse figuratively (she always finds the best deals and styles of clothes for herself, Laylie, and sometimes even me!) or literally (Mindy has sewn some of her own clothes and even some seat covers for our chairs), I can say that yes, my wonderful wife is a seamstress!
"She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises."
Mindy is always finding fun food that we've never tried before, trying new recipes, coming up with new ideas - I am always excited to hear about anything new she has found, because I know it will be worthwhile.
"She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day."
The truth of the matter is... my love LOVES to sleep in. But you know what? Our little Laylie... not so much. :-) Mindy puts her own desires aside to get up early, feed Laylie a healthy breakfast, and take care of her all day long. And is her day organized? Y.E.S. it is! Mindy is the most proactive, prepared, on-top-of-it person I know!
"She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden."
Mindy has taken a proactive approach to budgeting - a while back we both sat down together and with clear and concise direction, we decided on a monthly budget for our little family. And let me tell you - Mindy has taken that little budget and run with it! She factors in all the little things that need to be taken care of each month, never skips a beat, and always ensures our budget lasts the whole month. She is very wise with money and wise with saving. She is a wise woman of the Lord!
"First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started."
My wonderful wife definitely has a hard working spirit about her. She is never afraid to jump in and lend her hand no matter what job we have going on - be it painting a room of the house, working outside in the yard, cleaning the garage, or all the other wonderful amazing things she does. She is so talented, but in addition to that, loves putting her talents to good use.
"She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day."
This one makes me smile - there are more than a handful of times that I can remember where Mindy and I have worked on a little project for our family and when we take a minute to look at the clock... it is way past our bedtime. :-) While some people would feel the call of their pillow and want to call it quits and pick it up in the morning, my precious Mindy digs deep and gives encouragement to others to continue on for just a few more minutes. She knows that with the satisfaction of a job well done, she can get a good nights sleep full of rest and relaxation.
"She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking."
Well! Have you been to our house? It is ok for me to say this, because I can't take credit for anything. So it isn't like me bragging; it is me complimenting my bride. Before Mindy and I got married, you should have seen this place. I had I think a single old wrinkled leather recliner that I got off of craigslist in the family room and my tv was on the floor. That about summed up the place. :-) But have you seen our house now? It is all thanks to my amazing Mindy - one skilled in the crafts of the home and hearth, and extremely diligent in homemaking.
"She's quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor."
As I said earlier, Mindy has a heart for others. One time, out of the blue, Mindy looks at me and says, "Let's go feed the homeless." So we hopped in our car, just the two of us, bought 50 tacos 50 hamburgers, and 50 bottles of water, and made our way down to downtown San Diego. We quickly ran out of the food and water and also gave away countless blankets and sleeping bags. We prayed for a few wonderful people who definitely seemed like they needed prayer, and Mindy whispered in my ear more than once, "I wish we could take this person home with us." Mindy has a huge heart for others.
"She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear."
It does help that we live in southern California... :-) But nonetheless, I take this verse to mean that Mindy does not need to worry about the future, because she runs her house prepared for all kinds of unexpected events. Whether it be a torrential downpour, or perhaps a trip to the beach - Mindy is always prepared with an extra umbrella or some sunscreen and a beach blanket. She is not often caught unexpected.
"She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks."
Hey! Didn't I already mention this earlier? :-) She has made I think at least 2 or 3 skirts for herself, and many Halloween costumes, things for the house, etc. All with her trusty sewing machine that she frugally purchased at a garage sale! You go, girl!!
"Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers."
Well you know the other day when I was talking with the mayor and the city treasurer... haha, just kidding. I think what this verse is trying to say is that, when other people see Mindy and I together, are we a good example to the community? Are we effectively sharing the love of God? Speaking God's Word? I can say without a doubt that Mindy is indeed a shining star to the people who live around us and to the people we come into contact with day to day.
"She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops."
I need to check with Mindy and see whether or not she's sold one of those dresses she sewed. But shoot! They are cute enough to sell anyway. So that counts. And truthfully, Mindy's more of a giver than a seller - she constantly is going through her closet and the house looking for things that would be better suited belonging to someone else. A sister, a friend, or even Goodwill - many people have been blessed by Mindy.
"Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile."
Wow, this Proverbs 31 sure talks about clothes a lot, doesn't it? ;-) Well it's safe to say that we've thoroughly covered that section. But I love the 2nd part of this verse - because it is true. Mindy is always smiling, and is always looking forward to the blessings that God will bring tomorrow - and how she can be that blessing to God and to others. And boy does Mindy have a beautiful smile!!!
"When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly."
I have heard nothing but positive, encouraging words come out of Mindy's mouth. The Bible says "out of the heart, the mouth speaks". Nothing makes me happier than to hear Mindy speak, because it reminds me what she has stored up in her heart - Jesus.
"She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive."
Yes, I do have a honey-do list. :-) And nothing gives me greater satisfaction than to check an item off of the list - because it makes me feel productive, and because I know I've served my beautiful wife by helping her out with something she couldn't do on her own. And Laylie is always under Mindy's watchful eye too - no matter if she is outside in her playhouse, inside coloring, or upstairs taking a nap. Mindy is a wonderful wife and fantastic mother!
"Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise:"
The times when I am blessed to give my wife a much deserved time off to do something fun while Laylie and I do our own little thing out and about or back at the house, it is always sooooooo cute and endearing to see Mindy and Laylie get reunited. "M.A.M.A.!!!!" Laylie will exclaim at the top of her lungs, while toddling straight to Mindy as fast as she can. And it's true - sometimes I join in too: "M.I.N.D.Y.!!!"
"'Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!'"
This is one of my favorite verses from the Bible - I try to say it to Mindy in all kinds of different ways with all kinds of different words. I think this is a phrase that every husband should shower their wife with constantly. Because it is so true - there are many wonderful women out there, who do all kinds of great things. But Melinda, in my eyes, you have surpassed each and every one of them!
"Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God."
I was going to rephrase this one to say "outer beauty soon fades" but then I got to thinking... if I am lucky and blessed enough to be looking into Mindy's eyes in, say, 55 years, I can promise you that what I see when I look at her will be a shared lifetime together serving the Lord, each other, our children, family and friends - and all of that will be summed up in Great-Grandma Mindy's gorgeous green eyes and stunning outer beauty. So I'd like to say that if someone has true inner beauty, then the longer that person lives, the more beautiful they become. Mindy truly loves the Lord with all her heart, soul, mind and strength. And that is the most beautiful thing in the whole entire universe.
"Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with praises!"
I often struggle with what I should get Mindy on special occasions like today. I want her to feel so loved and so special - because she is!! So I may get her little things here and there - but in the scheme of things, what really matters is this: Mindy Grace White, today, and every day for the rest of my life, I give myself to the Lord, to you, and to Laylie. I am so excited to see how the Lord will bless you this next year of your life, and I am so incredibly blessed to be your husband! You are an amazing best friend, lover, wife, and mother! Thank you for everything you do! Happy Birthday, my love!!!
One of our first dates
Our little family of three!
Hymn to a Good Wife
"A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds."
A good woman IS hard to find! In fact, I can't even take credit for finding Mindy. Wonderful family friends of ours, the Andersons, knew us each individually for many years and watched us grow up. And almost 7 years ago, they introduced us - the rest, they say, is history. Amazing, wonderful, fun :-) Also, I roughly calculated the value of Mindy if she were a diamond, and came up with $35,916,543,976.82 - but this verse hit the nail on the head, because Mindy is worth far more than that!
"Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it."
I trust Mindy with absolutely everything - from simple things, to complex things; from the layout and decor of our house, to where we should spend our vacations; and most importantly, with raising our beautiful daughter Laylie - and I never ever ever have reason to regret it. Mindy is absolutely amazing!
"Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long."
Mindy has the most tender, caring, giving, loving, others-focused heart I have ever seen and she always treats me with gentleness, kindness, patience, respect, and love... she has made the past 5 1/2 years of marriage pure bliss!
"She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing."
Whether you interpret this verse figuratively (she always finds the best deals and styles of clothes for herself, Laylie, and sometimes even me!) or literally (Mindy has sewn some of her own clothes and even some seat covers for our chairs), I can say that yes, my wonderful wife is a seamstress!
"She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises."
Mindy is always finding fun food that we've never tried before, trying new recipes, coming up with new ideas - I am always excited to hear about anything new she has found, because I know it will be worthwhile.
"She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day."
The truth of the matter is... my love LOVES to sleep in. But you know what? Our little Laylie... not so much. :-) Mindy puts her own desires aside to get up early, feed Laylie a healthy breakfast, and take care of her all day long. And is her day organized? Y.E.S. it is! Mindy is the most proactive, prepared, on-top-of-it person I know!
"She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden."
Mindy has taken a proactive approach to budgeting - a while back we both sat down together and with clear and concise direction, we decided on a monthly budget for our little family. And let me tell you - Mindy has taken that little budget and run with it! She factors in all the little things that need to be taken care of each month, never skips a beat, and always ensures our budget lasts the whole month. She is very wise with money and wise with saving. She is a wise woman of the Lord!
"First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started."
My wonderful wife definitely has a hard working spirit about her. She is never afraid to jump in and lend her hand no matter what job we have going on - be it painting a room of the house, working outside in the yard, cleaning the garage, or all the other wonderful amazing things she does. She is so talented, but in addition to that, loves putting her talents to good use.
"She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day."
This one makes me smile - there are more than a handful of times that I can remember where Mindy and I have worked on a little project for our family and when we take a minute to look at the clock... it is way past our bedtime. :-) While some people would feel the call of their pillow and want to call it quits and pick it up in the morning, my precious Mindy digs deep and gives encouragement to others to continue on for just a few more minutes. She knows that with the satisfaction of a job well done, she can get a good nights sleep full of rest and relaxation.
"She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking."
Well! Have you been to our house? It is ok for me to say this, because I can't take credit for anything. So it isn't like me bragging; it is me complimenting my bride. Before Mindy and I got married, you should have seen this place. I had I think a single old wrinkled leather recliner that I got off of craigslist in the family room and my tv was on the floor. That about summed up the place. :-) But have you seen our house now? It is all thanks to my amazing Mindy - one skilled in the crafts of the home and hearth, and extremely diligent in homemaking.
"She's quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor."
As I said earlier, Mindy has a heart for others. One time, out of the blue, Mindy looks at me and says, "Let's go feed the homeless." So we hopped in our car, just the two of us, bought 50 tacos 50 hamburgers, and 50 bottles of water, and made our way down to downtown San Diego. We quickly ran out of the food and water and also gave away countless blankets and sleeping bags. We prayed for a few wonderful people who definitely seemed like they needed prayer, and Mindy whispered in my ear more than once, "I wish we could take this person home with us." Mindy has a huge heart for others.
"She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear."
It does help that we live in southern California... :-) But nonetheless, I take this verse to mean that Mindy does not need to worry about the future, because she runs her house prepared for all kinds of unexpected events. Whether it be a torrential downpour, or perhaps a trip to the beach - Mindy is always prepared with an extra umbrella or some sunscreen and a beach blanket. She is not often caught unexpected.
"She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks."
Hey! Didn't I already mention this earlier? :-) She has made I think at least 2 or 3 skirts for herself, and many Halloween costumes, things for the house, etc. All with her trusty sewing machine that she frugally purchased at a garage sale! You go, girl!!
"Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers."
Well you know the other day when I was talking with the mayor and the city treasurer... haha, just kidding. I think what this verse is trying to say is that, when other people see Mindy and I together, are we a good example to the community? Are we effectively sharing the love of God? Speaking God's Word? I can say without a doubt that Mindy is indeed a shining star to the people who live around us and to the people we come into contact with day to day.
"She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops."
I need to check with Mindy and see whether or not she's sold one of those dresses she sewed. But shoot! They are cute enough to sell anyway. So that counts. And truthfully, Mindy's more of a giver than a seller - she constantly is going through her closet and the house looking for things that would be better suited belonging to someone else. A sister, a friend, or even Goodwill - many people have been blessed by Mindy.
"Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile."
Wow, this Proverbs 31 sure talks about clothes a lot, doesn't it? ;-) Well it's safe to say that we've thoroughly covered that section. But I love the 2nd part of this verse - because it is true. Mindy is always smiling, and is always looking forward to the blessings that God will bring tomorrow - and how she can be that blessing to God and to others. And boy does Mindy have a beautiful smile!!!
"When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly."
I have heard nothing but positive, encouraging words come out of Mindy's mouth. The Bible says "out of the heart, the mouth speaks". Nothing makes me happier than to hear Mindy speak, because it reminds me what she has stored up in her heart - Jesus.
"She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive."
Yes, I do have a honey-do list. :-) And nothing gives me greater satisfaction than to check an item off of the list - because it makes me feel productive, and because I know I've served my beautiful wife by helping her out with something she couldn't do on her own. And Laylie is always under Mindy's watchful eye too - no matter if she is outside in her playhouse, inside coloring, or upstairs taking a nap. Mindy is a wonderful wife and fantastic mother!
"Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise:"
The times when I am blessed to give my wife a much deserved time off to do something fun while Laylie and I do our own little thing out and about or back at the house, it is always sooooooo cute and endearing to see Mindy and Laylie get reunited. "M.A.M.A.!!!!" Laylie will exclaim at the top of her lungs, while toddling straight to Mindy as fast as she can. And it's true - sometimes I join in too: "M.I.N.D.Y.!!!"
"'Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!'"
This is one of my favorite verses from the Bible - I try to say it to Mindy in all kinds of different ways with all kinds of different words. I think this is a phrase that every husband should shower their wife with constantly. Because it is so true - there are many wonderful women out there, who do all kinds of great things. But Melinda, in my eyes, you have surpassed each and every one of them!
"Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God."
I was going to rephrase this one to say "outer beauty soon fades" but then I got to thinking... if I am lucky and blessed enough to be looking into Mindy's eyes in, say, 55 years, I can promise you that what I see when I look at her will be a shared lifetime together serving the Lord, each other, our children, family and friends - and all of that will be summed up in Great-Grandma Mindy's gorgeous green eyes and stunning outer beauty. So I'd like to say that if someone has true inner beauty, then the longer that person lives, the more beautiful they become. Mindy truly loves the Lord with all her heart, soul, mind and strength. And that is the most beautiful thing in the whole entire universe.
"Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with praises!"
I often struggle with what I should get Mindy on special occasions like today. I want her to feel so loved and so special - because she is!! So I may get her little things here and there - but in the scheme of things, what really matters is this: Mindy Grace White, today, and every day for the rest of my life, I give myself to the Lord, to you, and to Laylie. I am so excited to see how the Lord will bless you this next year of your life, and I am so incredibly blessed to be your husband! You are an amazing best friend, lover, wife, and mother! Thank you for everything you do! Happy Birthday, my love!!!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Laylie's 1st Dance Class
Laylie had her very 1st “Mommy and Me” dance class today. She loved it and she looked so cute dancing around in her pink tutu. Together we danced, rolled balls on the dance floor, twirled fairy wands, hopped over stuffed lady bugs, and even did some hand motion songs with Laylie sitting on her mommy’s lap. The best part of it all is that Ariel, the dance teacher, is the same teacher I took dance with when I was young and now she gets to teach my own daughter. How cool is that? Also, Laylie gets to dance with her best friend Therese too. We are now looking forward to every Wednesday morning getting our dancing grooves on. Folks, get ready for a super fun and adorable dance recital in June. Mark your calendars for June 24th and 25th you don’t want to miss it!
My Cute Little Ballerina...
Mama and Laylie..
Laylie just adores her girlfriend Therese...
All the little dancers...
My Cute Little Ballerina...
Mama and Laylie..
Laylie just adores her girlfriend Therese...
All the little dancers...
Sunday, January 30, 2011
What a week...
This was a very hard and long week for my little Laylie J. High fevers every day, long naps, big sad red eyes, no appetite and only wanted to be held. Yes, folks even though I completely love to snuggle I truly thought my arms would fall off and I think my left arm might be bigger now. As every mother would do…try to solve what was making my little baby so miserable. Is it the flu? Did she eat something? Is she allergic to something? Is it the shot she received 2 weeks ago? BINGO! Yup, this Saturday morning she woke up with red bumps completely covering her little body. She had a full blown reaction to the MMR shot and came down the case of fake measles.:-( With lots of prayer, love, snuggles and singing she is finally getting better day by day. We knew she was making a comeback today because she was dancing to her favorite music “Mickey Mouse Club House” which made mine and Jason’s hearts extremely happy. We are hoping to have our little happy go lucky, healthy little girl back asap and I am honored to be her mama to bring her comfort when she is not herself. Keep getting better my sweet Laylie J!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Our Little Girl Turns 15 Months...
This month Laylie Joanelle turned 15 months…where has time gone? My heart is filled to the brim and overflowing with love for her. Every day, I can’t get enough of her and I feel so blessed God has given her to me to love and raise. The other day I looked at her and could not believe she belongs to me the blonde hair and bright blue eyed little girl is M.I.N.E. (and the Lords). Thank you Lord for giving me the perfect two gifts in my life…my amazing husband and my baby girl. I feel so grateful!
Laylie is now 15 Months and Jason and I are starting to see what great qualities God is giving her.
Here are just a few:
God is making her into a “great and mighty communicator”:
She now can say about 20 words clear as day such as…please, no, yea, water, dog, uh-oh, dada, mama, Gypsy, help etc. and signs a few words too.
She now can tell you a story for about 10 minutes straight with a few regular words but mostly baby talk.
God gave her “willingness to help others”:
She always picks up her toys without being asked, helps her mama put clean silverware away into the drawer and throws clean wet laundry into the dryer.
God gave her a “heart for others”:
If she notices someone in need she is there to bring comfort and a big hug.
If she has hurt someone she is easy to apologize and forgive.
God made her a “complete girl”:
Throughout most of her days, she spends a few hours trying on her collection of shoes and putting on pretty necklaces.
God has given her a “feisty but sweet personality and can definitely can hold her own”
She knows what she wants at times but is always willing to obey if told.
God gave her a willingness to be “taught and learn more about Him”
Enjoys reading a billion books a day and loves when we read her The Children’s Bible.
God gave her a “fearless heart with mighty strength”
She is a mighty climber folks! Most of the time I find her stuck in places I have no clue how she got there in the first place. She gets a thrill going super high in a swing…sometime it seems like she may loop around the swing set. She loves when others throw her in the air and she giggles as her tummy drops.
We are relishing in this fun time being parents as we raise our little girl. Thank you, Heavenly Father for letting us raise your daughter and we promise we will love and adore her with all of our hearts.
A little girl's dream house...
This last Saturday we had a super fun surprise for Laylie. A new PLAYHOUSE!!
This little playhouse was a gift from Jason’s parents at Christmas and we could not wait to build it and have Laylie spend hours playing inside. She spends most of her days playing outside in our back patio playing with bubbles, chalk, swinging in her swing, throwing balls, riding her bike and now playing in her new little home.
Friday night my Dad, Jason and Jon worked hard on the little house and making it perfect for Laylie. The instructions said 8 -10 building hours for a two person job but by my amazement it only took them 3 ½ hours. Great work guys and I am so thankful!
After Laylie woke up Saturday morning we took her outside to show her the big surprise waiting for her. She walked outside and was so thrilled to see something new and to have her own house. She loved opening and closing the green little door and looking out the nice vinyl windows. I am so grateful for this gift and I am excited to watch Laylie spend hours upon hours playing. I must admit I am really anxious to get in there day after day to play babies and have tea parties with my little daughter - it might be tight in that little house but it sure won’t hinder me from having fun.
Thanks Mom & Dad White for blessing Laylie with her awesome gift. Thanks Jason, Dad and Jon for spending hours building and crafting the new home. We love you all!
This little playhouse was a gift from Jason’s parents at Christmas and we could not wait to build it and have Laylie spend hours playing inside. She spends most of her days playing outside in our back patio playing with bubbles, chalk, swinging in her swing, throwing balls, riding her bike and now playing in her new little home.
Friday night my Dad, Jason and Jon worked hard on the little house and making it perfect for Laylie. The instructions said 8 -10 building hours for a two person job but by my amazement it only took them 3 ½ hours. Great work guys and I am so thankful!
After Laylie woke up Saturday morning we took her outside to show her the big surprise waiting for her. She walked outside and was so thrilled to see something new and to have her own house. She loved opening and closing the green little door and looking out the nice vinyl windows. I am so grateful for this gift and I am excited to watch Laylie spend hours upon hours playing. I must admit I am really anxious to get in there day after day to play babies and have tea parties with my little daughter - it might be tight in that little house but it sure won’t hinder me from having fun.
Thanks Mom & Dad White for blessing Laylie with her awesome gift. Thanks Jason, Dad and Jon for spending hours building and crafting the new home. We love you all!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
A Day to Remember Grandpa...
Our little family went down memory lane and it was such a remarkable day for me. I lavished in every moment of it and tried to capture all the fun we were having. Today, we packed up the car and headed to the city of Costa Mesa. This is where some of my most cherished memories are as a little girl being with my Grandma & Grandpa Hamborg. My little Laylie never got to meet my amazing Grandpa and I wanted her to experience the special moments I had with my sweet Grandpa - to show her the fun things we did together and why I have the fondest memories with him. I know he would have just adored her to pieces. I know Laylie would have sat in his rocking chair on his lap reading book after book for hours and soaked up all of his lullabies he would have sung to her. Yes, he spent countless hours doing this with me and those moments will never be forgotten. My Grandpa was the most remarkable Grandpa anyone could ask for and he truly was a man of love. He was the most caring man and loved his children and grandchildren with his whole heart. When I would visit my Grandparents just for the day or even for the weekend he would make sure we got our alone time in. He would make a sign with his fingers in the shape of a big “O” which always meant it was our time to head out for our special date together. The big “O” was the sign for doughnuts. And afterwards, that always included a little trip to a farm and also feeding the ducks at the nearest park with a pond. We did this for many years and I enjoyed every minute. He made me feel so special and loved.
I wanted to take Jason and Laylie on my Grandpa’s date and show them what we saw and did together. Our first stop was a little 4-H farm where the local kids get to raise animals and grow vegetables. It was so fun to see the little farm and remember myself running around everywhere just like Laylie did. We got to pet the animals, run through the gardens and go inside a red barn. It brought back a flood of memories and I had a huge smile just thinking of all the fun I had at this tiny little farm.
We met the sweetest angora sheep named Moco and i wanted to take her home with us. She loved being pet and adored Laylie. Look how cute this sheep is...
Our next stop was a beautiful park with a large pond. My Grandpa would always bring some bread to feed the ducks in the pond and that is exactly what we did. Laylie had so much fun throwing tiny little bread crumbs at the ducks and watching them dive to get it. It was such a blast watching the ducks swim and the thrill Laylie was having. I now know why my Grandpa enjoyed watching us feed the ducks because it really did bring so much joy to us and also him. I loved it!
Then, it was off to get our doughnuts. We stopped at the same doughnut shop we would go together and we ate the most delicious doughnuts in honor of my Gramps.
I wanted to take Jason and Laylie to my Grandma and Grandpa’s house before they moved to San Diego with us. I showed them where I spent every holiday, where all of my cousins would run around, and even the tree my grandma fell out of when she broke her hip. It was great to pull up to the house and see it so pretty.
What a perfect and wonderful day. I am just so thankful for all the memories I have with my sweet Grandpa and my heart is just over joyed that I got to show Laylie and Jason what our special date was all about. This is a date that I will always remember forever. I sure do miss and love you Grandpa and can’t wait to see you again.
Here are some photos of my lovely Grandpa...
I wanted to take Jason and Laylie on my Grandpa’s date and show them what we saw and did together. Our first stop was a little 4-H farm where the local kids get to raise animals and grow vegetables. It was so fun to see the little farm and remember myself running around everywhere just like Laylie did. We got to pet the animals, run through the gardens and go inside a red barn. It brought back a flood of memories and I had a huge smile just thinking of all the fun I had at this tiny little farm.
We met the sweetest angora sheep named Moco and i wanted to take her home with us. She loved being pet and adored Laylie. Look how cute this sheep is...
Our next stop was a beautiful park with a large pond. My Grandpa would always bring some bread to feed the ducks in the pond and that is exactly what we did. Laylie had so much fun throwing tiny little bread crumbs at the ducks and watching them dive to get it. It was such a blast watching the ducks swim and the thrill Laylie was having. I now know why my Grandpa enjoyed watching us feed the ducks because it really did bring so much joy to us and also him. I loved it!
Then, it was off to get our doughnuts. We stopped at the same doughnut shop we would go together and we ate the most delicious doughnuts in honor of my Gramps.
I wanted to take Jason and Laylie to my Grandma and Grandpa’s house before they moved to San Diego with us. I showed them where I spent every holiday, where all of my cousins would run around, and even the tree my grandma fell out of when she broke her hip. It was great to pull up to the house and see it so pretty.
What a perfect and wonderful day. I am just so thankful for all the memories I have with my sweet Grandpa and my heart is just over joyed that I got to show Laylie and Jason what our special date was all about. This is a date that I will always remember forever. I sure do miss and love you Grandpa and can’t wait to see you again.
Here are some photos of my lovely Grandpa...
Christmas Time
We had the most wonderful Christmas. We celebrated 3 days straight with family which we loved. As we do every year, on Christmas Eve we celebrated with my whole Troncone family and had the most special time. We gathered together for a lovely Christmas Eve service at Lisa and Jon’s new church in San Marcos where we sang Christmas carols and got into the spirit of the true meaning of Christmas….Jesus’ birth and the glory we get from Him being born. Throughout the night Jason and I would say to each other, “What do you think Mary was doing right now?” “What do you think Joseph and Mary are thinking right now?” I really thought about Mary and Jesus this season and I truly feel so blessed that God saved each and every one of us. Thank you Lord for giving us the best Christmas gift we could ever receive.
We headed back to my parents house for our Christmas gathering. My parent’s house is truly a Christmas wonderland with beautiful white lights and gorgeous Christmas decorations throughout every square inch of their house. We ate a delicious dinner, my mom read a Christmas story and we opened gifts from each other. It was so fun to watch Laylie open each gift from her aunts, uncles and grandparents and play with every gift she had opened. She got a sweet baby doll cradle, clothes and some super fun toys. We absolutely enjoyed every minute being with our family and cherished all the special moments that we had throughout the night. It was a perfect Christmas Eve!
Christmas morning we woke up super early (thanks to our beautiful daughter…maybe she knew it was Christmas) and we captured Laylie walking down the stairs looking at the lights of the tree and the shining gifts underneath. The three of us gathered around our small Charlie Brown Christmas tree to open our stockings and presents. We sang “Happy Birthday” to Jesus as we ate a pancake breakfast and read a story of his birth. I really soaked up the time we had together and adored being with the two most treasured people in my life on such a special day.
The next two days we celebrated Christmas Day and the day after Christmas with the White’s. We had the yummiest dinner and breakfast that we all took part in and savored every bite. Laylie really loved being with her 4 cousins and playing with all of their new and greatest toys. She received some amazing things too which she has been playing with ever since we brought them home with us. We had such a magnificent time on Christmas day. We are so thankful for our families and this wonderful Christmas of 2010.
We headed back to my parents house for our Christmas gathering. My parent’s house is truly a Christmas wonderland with beautiful white lights and gorgeous Christmas decorations throughout every square inch of their house. We ate a delicious dinner, my mom read a Christmas story and we opened gifts from each other. It was so fun to watch Laylie open each gift from her aunts, uncles and grandparents and play with every gift she had opened. She got a sweet baby doll cradle, clothes and some super fun toys. We absolutely enjoyed every minute being with our family and cherished all the special moments that we had throughout the night. It was a perfect Christmas Eve!
Christmas morning we woke up super early (thanks to our beautiful daughter…maybe she knew it was Christmas) and we captured Laylie walking down the stairs looking at the lights of the tree and the shining gifts underneath. The three of us gathered around our small Charlie Brown Christmas tree to open our stockings and presents. We sang “Happy Birthday” to Jesus as we ate a pancake breakfast and read a story of his birth. I really soaked up the time we had together and adored being with the two most treasured people in my life on such a special day.
The next two days we celebrated Christmas Day and the day after Christmas with the White’s. We had the yummiest dinner and breakfast that we all took part in and savored every bite. Laylie really loved being with her 4 cousins and playing with all of their new and greatest toys. She received some amazing things too which she has been playing with ever since we brought them home with us. We had such a magnificent time on Christmas day. We are so thankful for our families and this wonderful Christmas of 2010.
Friday, December 24, 2010
These Rainy Days
This past week it has rained non-stop for the last 5 days. Laylie and I spent lots of time playing together inside our cozy home, going to friends’ houses for inside play-dates and trying to stay warm. With this weather it really made me realize how blessed I truly am to have a roof over my head to stay dry, a cozy fire to cuddle up to, hot water to have coco, wonderful family and warm food. Each morning I would wake up and just have a very grateful heart thanking our Lord for the little things that really seemed huge to me throughout this rainy week.
After a long week of rain there were a ton of puddles to splash in and get completely soaked in. So, I thought to myself, “Why don’t I get Laylie all dressed up warm and go out and have some fun.” Let’s just say, “She had a blast!” She laughed and smiled as she splashed in each puddle. She got completely wet and dirty from head to toe. But, what a fun day to go outside after being inside for a week and enjoy God’s wet creation. Thank you Lord for making me realize how blessed I am and making a fun puddle splashing time for our little Laylie! Here are some cute pictures of Laylie’s joy in the wet and muddy rain.
After a long week of rain there were a ton of puddles to splash in and get completely soaked in. So, I thought to myself, “Why don’t I get Laylie all dressed up warm and go out and have some fun.” Let’s just say, “She had a blast!” She laughed and smiled as she splashed in each puddle. She got completely wet and dirty from head to toe. But, what a fun day to go outside after being inside for a week and enjoy God’s wet creation. Thank you Lord for making me realize how blessed I am and making a fun puddle splashing time for our little Laylie! Here are some cute pictures of Laylie’s joy in the wet and muddy rain.
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