Reflection 29: Your Wife is Made to Share Trouble As Well As Happiness

God Put Me By Your Side So That You Don't Have to Stand Up to Hard Things Alone.
Who started the rumor that men have to carry burdens alone, that they must be the strong, silent type, going through life with their jawas clenched like Gary Cooper in High Noon? Whoever it was, he was wrong. If man was meant to struggle alone, I'm sure there would have been no Eve for Adam. Sorrow is unavoidable, and trouble is part of the package here on earth. But pain can be lifted and troubles more easily overcome by two. Please don't feel that you must keep your concerns bottled up or carry heavy responsibilities single-handed. I'm happy to be your sounding board. I'm your wife, for better or for worse, and I'll be by your side to help in good times and in bad.

'Shared joy is double joy, and shared sorrow is half-sorrow.' ~Swedish Proverb

By helping each other with your troubles, you truly obey the law of Christ. Galations 6:2

Psalm 91

Psalm 91
1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. [a]
2 I will say [b] of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.
8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.
9 If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge-
10 then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation."

Footnotes:
Psalm 91:1 Hebrew Shaddai
Psalm 91:2 Or He says

Reflection 28: It is a Mark of Wisdom When You Can Discern the Difference Between Teasing and Hurting

Thank You for Remembering That No Joke is Worth the Laugh if It Comes at the Expense of Your Wife's Feelings.
Some men have tongues sharper than a new saw blade, but their perception is dull as an old axe. With misplaced jests they can cut another's self-esteem deeply, only to excuse the damage by saying, "Hey, I was only kidding." A laugh at another person's expense really isn't funny, especially to the person who just paid the price for it. Sometimes it can be hurtful and humiliating. That's why I so appreciate the fact that you consider my feelings before speaking. You know my most vulnerable areas and avoid them. You understand that teasing that pokes fun at harmless foibles even I can laugh at, but hurting crosses the line into discomfort. Thank you for knowing where the line is and for keeping a loving distance from it.

'God has set a double fence before the tongue, the teeth and the lips, to teach us to be wary that we offend not with our tongue.' ~Thomas Watson

Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. James 3:5

Memorial Day Weekend

Happy Memorial Day! This past Friday we left for Grandma & Grandpa Ginder's house. I remember when it used to be their one-bedroom cabin and then them building on to make it a beautiful home. Now, it's sold and they are furiously packing to move to Florida. In fact, this weekend was their big moving sale. We bought a few things, including a baby gate for the Bean and Erica's bike for me.

Meanwhile this was Joshua's first trip up to the mountains. He was super! He slept well in their pack 'n play, was well-behaved and seemed to really enjoy himself up there. He loved Beau, their collie, and Aunt Erica and Grandma & Grandpa, of course. They also have some cool toys! Shawn and I were even able to nap while Joshua played with his aunt and grandparents. I was highly impressed (and relieved) with how well Joshua did going away. He cried in the car, though, but other than that, he was an angel. He also got a new tooth this weekend!

This was us on Memorial Day before we left to come home. Over the weekend, we played croquet (Shawn & I beat Aunt Erica & Grandpa Ginder three out of three games...although I take no credit since Shawn is good at every game and every sport) and chicken foot, which I won the first half. We never got to play the second half, but I'll allow them to challenge me to a rematch the next time we see them. :) I just love the bragging rights. We also played a fun game on the way home from the restaurant that they play in the car; they go through the XM radio stations and try to guess the title of the song and the artist. Shawn & I played that on the way home, too.

Here is Joshua with his grandparents. I think they dressed purposefully to match his outfit, or perhaps to show their patriotic side for Memorial Day. They bought him a "Barnyard Friends" toy that has a rooster, pig, cow and duck in that are labeled and make their individual noises. He absolutely loves them! That duck has been quacking all day today. :) Joshua loves his Aunt Erica. She bought him the cutest froggy rain slicker and matching boots! I didn't have the camera, but I'll take a picture the next time it rains. She also baked me a cake for my birthday and had lovely presents for me, including a wonderful wallet with Joshua pictures in it and boxes to file my photos, not to mention the froggy paper. I loved each thing - thanks, Nanny Jo! We'll miss you while you're getting more and more tan in Florida!
Here is Joshua in a bin of plush toys for sale. Who will give us the highest bid for him? Just kidding! I wouldn't give him up for all the money in the world.Here's the Bean and Grandpa...two peas in a pod. Grandpa even showed him how to sit on a Harley and look impressive.

When Joshua was born, Grandma & Grandpa Ginder planted a beautiful white lilac tree in his honor that will grow as he grows. It's starting to spring up, just like the Bean! Here's a picture of the "Joshua tree" with him and Grandma Ginder.We had an excellent weekend and really enjoyed the trip. We're sad to see them go to Florida, but excited for the journey ahead of them.

Last night we visited with Mom & Jamie for a little bit, and today Joshua and I ate with Aunt Jen, Grace, Faith & Emma. Tonight I had worship practice, and Rev. Judith, a prayer warrior, was there and read a verse from Psalms - I think it was Psalms 91 - and talked about God keeping us close and protecting us like we were in His womb. Shawn & I were just talking last night again about how we wish police would catch whoever did those murders in Manheim Township near our house and how we had double checked to make sure our doors were locked. I felt tonight like God was asking me if I'd protect Joshua if I had to. I said, OF COURSE!!! And then He reminded me that I am His child and He would do the same for me. I didn't have to worry or be scared - just like I'd do anything to keep the Bean safe, He is protecting me...and He has lots more power and resources!

Reflection 27: When You Use Your God-Given Talents, You Make Me Proud

I Want the Best for You, Which is Why I Want to See You Live Up to Your Full Potential.
God certainly designed someone special when He made you. With your unique gifts, you are a man meant to be a useful tool in His hands. As your biggest fan, I'm all in favor of that. I appreciate the talents you have, and I love to see you grow and use them. It makes me happy when you succeed. I'm as proud of your accomplishments as you are. I love to see others benefit from the good fallout that comes from your usefulness. When I see you in action, using your mind and your skills, I can't be anything but proud, because there is nothing better you can do than honor God by using the gifts God has given you.

'Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.' ~Theodore Roosevelt

That special gift of ministry you were given when the leaders of the church laid hands on you and prayed - keep that dusted off and in use. 1 Timothy 4:14

Reflection 26: You Are So Much More to Me Than a Paycheck

I Can Always Find Money Somewhere, But I can Never Find Another You.
Some men think their wives see them as only a paycheck. They think, all she wants is to spend my money, all she cares about is how soon I'm going to make more. She wouldn't care if I disappeared tomorrow as long as the money kept coming in. I married you, not your income. I married you for your great smile and kind heart. I married you for the pleasure of your company, not the pleasure of your checkbook. I appreciate how hard you work for us, and I'm happy when we can pay the bills, but this marriage is built on love, not money. Spending your money will never be as important as spending time with you.

'There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.' ~Martin Luther

I belong to my lover, and he desires only me. Song of Solomon 7:10

God Inhabits the Praises of His People

Psalm 22:3
"But You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of Israel." New King James Version
"But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel." American Standard Version
http://www.worshipmap.com/compassnf/cl-psalm22.html

A neighbor across the street from mom has a ladies' Bible study every other Wednesday morning, and she offered to have the group come and share worship with them. So, yesterday they brought over a keyboard and sang songs that mom & Jamie knew and prayed for them. Mom said it was "refreshing" since they haven't been able to go to church since he went into the hospital. I thought, what a neat ministry! Jamie even noted how the Spirit filled the house, and mom said that's because God inhabits the praises of His people. That's the second time I had heard that verse in a 24-hour period - the night before, that verse was discussed in our worship team meeting. I thought about it a lot yesterday, and so when Joshua cried just before midnight last night, I went in and rocked him back to sleep singing God's praise and asking Him to enter the room and fill our hearts with His Spirit. I believe He answered my prayer. When I was at mom's, Jamie decided he'd like to sit outside but mom was fixing a shirt for me with her sewing machine so we stayed in for a few minutes and joined him when she was done. She looked on her dining room floor, and picked up something and said "What's this?" Then we both realized at the same time that it was a lock of Jamie's hair. She got a little teary and said she didn't want to say anything to him about it to upset him, and I felt soooo bad. They told him yesterday that they don't expect him to walk or use his arm any better because of the treatments he's receiving; it will only be the physical therapy that helps him. I think that was discouraging news for both of them, and I hate to see them suffering. When we went back outside, Joshua played on a blanket on the grass and he told Jamie all sorts of stories in his baby language and then would giggle. It was so cute! But, then it was time to go home.


Today I met Michelle & her two kiddos for lunch. It was supposed to be a group of gals and kids, but one thing or another came up for the rest of the gang. It was actually nice that it worked out that way because I really enjoyed seeing her & the fam. Medea was such a big helper, liked playing with Joshua and absolutely loved to pet any dogs we saw - I think even walking on the trail we saw less than a half a dozen people total at the park, even on this positively gorgeous day. There was a refreshing breeze with the brightly shining sun and warm temperatures. Joshua got his first ride on a "big kid" toddler swing outside. He loved it! In fact, he almost fell asleep on it and did pass out once I put him in the stroller to go for a walk after lunch. Poor Michelle was fasting but still came, and we fed our kiddos at the picnic table in the shade. Her son is such a handsome little guy with such a great smile. And he can crawl and pull himself up like a big boy! Even though he looks small, he celebrated nine months today, and her daughter turns three years old on May 30. We had a nice time, and I enjoyed hearing about their church and her decorating. :)


When we came home, I fed Joshua his bottle and gave him a refreshing bath to help cool him off and wash off the sunscreen I had put on him. Tonight we're packing to visit Grandma & Grandpa Ginder this weekend. Hopefully Joshua's a good little boy and not too overwhelmed with the trip, new bed and new surroundings. I think his "sickness" might have been the baby meat I fed him. I don't think he could digest it well so it made him throw up at dinner and have other issues later. So I'll wait a few weeks and try again and monitor it more carefully this time. He seems to be doing much better now.

Reflection 25: Always Remember God Can Use a Good Man at Any Age

Always Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open Because God Will Never Stop Calling You to New Things.
God is always looking for a good man - a man whose heart is willing and whose favorite words are Yes, Lord. Some men think God's workforce has an age limit. Isn't it great that they are wrong? God has used all kinds of men throughout history: young and old, weak and strong. That means that at every point in your life you will find God has something for you to do. You'll never have to feel useless because He will always have a new mountaintop waiting for you. God will never give up using you, no matter what your physical condition or energy level. You will always be valuable to Him.

'You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.'

God told Abram: "Leave your country, your family, and your father's home for a land that I will show you." So Abram left just as God said, and Lot left with him. Abram was 75 years old when he left Haran. Genesis 12:1, 4

Sorry, Roger, You Tiger Now

Shawn & I rarely get a moment to sit down & watch TV together. But we do love the show 24 and every once in awhile I'll get to watch HGTV, my favorite channel to see decorating and fancy houses. Since we have a Replay TV, we record our shows and skip through commercials, thereby saving time. For whatever reason, I was watching something and didn't immediately skip the commercials and started watching one for Comcast Digital Voice where a man named Roger has had tiger stripes tattooed into his skin and he's speaking with the artist about undoing it. The tattoo artist doesn't speak English well and I absolutely cracked up when he said, "Sawee, Woga, you tiga now!" Shawn was not nearly as amused as I was, but every once in awhile I'll randomly say it, and he seems to get a kick out of that. Here's a link to the commercial, which in and of itself is retarded but the expression is priceless: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCFoIEvjoaU In other news, I can see white where a tooth will push through any moment on the top front of Joshua's gums. I think the Bean is still sick, unfortunately, and I've changed more diapers the past two days than I have the rest of his life, I think. He's not cranky, though, and isn't running a fever. So, we'll see how today goes. If he doesn't seem better, I'll call the pediatrician. I'm making sure he gets enough liquids through his bottles and his diapers are wet, so I know that he's not dehydrated. I hate to see the little guy not feeling well! I'm also supposed to meet friends of mine who also have little ones at the park tomorrow, so I'm hoping he's completely better by then since I don't want to chance anyone else catching what he somehow did.

This morning Joshua was sitting up playing and I put a green ball out in front of him - he reached forward for it and got into what I'll call "the crawing position" where he went from sitting to more on his belly on his hands and knees. He was then able to reach the ball, so it went no further, but I was impressed! We're going to have to start baby-proofing our house now, I think!

Last night I had a meeting for the worship team at church. Shawn said that he was playing with Joshua while he was also looking for some new connection things (I know nothing about technology or what he was doing) and in the process found this "head-light" that my dad had gotten us one year for Christmas in our stockings. I thought the Bean looked so cute, but I suggested we take it off his head after we snapped the photos even though he didn't seem to mind his new fashion accessory. Silly Daddy!

Reflection 24: Because You Understand the Importance of Teamwork, You Value Your Wife's Advice

Listening to My Advice Doesn't Make You Less of a Man; It Makes You More of a Husband.
Teamwork. On the football field, teamwork is what scores the point. In the workplace, teamwork is what gets the project done. And we both know how important teamwork is to a successful marriage. I appreciate the fact that you realize we are a team, each bringing our own unique talents and insights. I'm glad you value my opinions and that you're willing to listen to my advice. It shows how secure you are in your manhood that you can consider another opinion, another way of looking at the world or dealing with a situation. Thank you for not putting me down or shutting me up, for realizing that God gave me to you to help you. Thanks for working as a team. We make a winning combination.

'Who is the wise man? He who learns from all men.' ~William Gladstone

The way of a fool is right in his eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise. Proverbs 12:15

Are You Sitting?

Last night on the way home, Shawn said something (and I completely forget what now) and my brain was so fried that I said a mixture of "are you serious" and "are you kidding" to come blurting out of my mouth "are you sidding?" Shawn replied (he was driving) "I am sitting! I am!" We both laughed the whole way home.

We had been at Nonie & Poppy's house celebrating Shawn's & Poppy's birthdays with a cookout. Unfortunately, Joshua cried most of the night. He didn't feel good, I think. All day he had had gas - worse than I've ever seen before. Then he threw up his dinner while he was eating it (a new first.) I threw the rest out, and we still headed out because he didn't seem too terribly upset while we were at home, but I did tell Shawn to ask for his input since it was his family and his birthday celebration. Between the tummy ache and being overstimulated with the crowd, he wouldn't sleep even though he was rubbing his nose like crazy (his sign to tell us he's exhausted). After dinner, everyone headed outside to play badminton. I changed Joshua into some warmer clothes, and he and I played on the grass. He sat the whole time without swaying or falling once, even when Buddy the Puppy or his cousin Grant would come over to us. He was happy then, but when I took a turn at playing with the grown-ups, he screamed bloody murder. Shawn had been playing whack-a-mole with Jordon, but he took the Bean to try to feed him his bottle and get him to sleep. So, I got to enjoy more badminton (even though I haven't played in years and was terrible). Joshua, unfortunately, did not want to sleep. He LOVED seeing & playing with Mary Esmay, who had come along with Great Grandma & Grandpa Stoltzfus.Joshua finally calmed down in the car and was completely happy again at home. But, he woke up in the middle of the night screaming again. I went in around 3 a.m. and held him to go back to sleep. Not even an hour later he was screaming in pain again. This time when I walked into the room, I smelled something awful, so I changed his diaper...only to find out that he was only wet. Our poor Bean truly had a belly ache and a half, but he was soooo tired. I rocked with him for awhile but he didn't want to sleep. Finally, I put him back down in his crib since he had calmed down. Poor Joshua!
This morning he has dark circles under his eyes, so I expect that he'll take a nap soon. Today I'm watching Faith & Emma while Grace & Jen ride the school bus for the first time. I also talked to Mom this morning. Jamie started chemo & radiation yesterday, and so far he feels okay. He has both radiation (where they aim beams into his brain and 'zap' the bad cells along with the good) and chemo (a pill that he takes) everyday during the week for the next five weeks. Along with that, he has physical therapy and occupational therapy. If the radiation & chemo successfully shrinks the tumors, Jamie may be able to get more movement. However, if his brain adversely reacts to the treatments, the swelling on the brain - which is what causes his lack of movement - could worsen. He already can't use his arm and can barely walk, so please continue to pray for him and my mom.

Reflection 21: The Happiest Home is One Where Worry is Never Welcome

If We Focus on Trusting God and Encouraging Each Other, We Will Each Benefit and So Will Our Marriage.
Nothing good can be said about worry. It's an ugly customer that creates misery and havoc wherever it lodges. Worry has no bedtime; it will happily keep you up till all hours; it's never satisfied with simply robbing you of your sleep. It steels your joy and undermines your trust in God. It enjoys chipping away at good health and good relationships. It extends unhappiness and shortens tempers. Let's not allow worry to be a guest in our home. When it knocks on our door, let's direct it onto God. That way we'll be free to problem-solve, to focus on the good things in our life and what we have together. Let's keep our home happy by not letting worry in the door.

'Oh how great a peace and quietness would he possess who would cut off all vain anxiety and place all his confidence in God.' ~Thomas a Kempis

Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Reflection 20: Show Me Kindness, and You'll See It Coming Right Back to You

The More You Show You Love Me, the More Love I'll Reflect Back.
What do a wife and a mirror have in common? Both have a way of reflecting your emotions and actions. Your loving touch encourages me to reach out. Your smile pulls an answering smile from me. Your desire to watch out and care for me inspires me to do the same for you. And those kind gestures - getting me gifts, running out for icecream when I've got a craving, fetching a blanket when I'm cold - they make me grateful. They make me want to give back, even outdo you. Your acts of kindness and consideration generate more love between us and allow us both to reflect God's love for us. Keep putting the feeling into action, and we'll continue to raise our relationship to new, exciting heights.

'Husbands who have the courage to be tender enjoy marriages that mellow through the years.' ~Brendan Francis

Husbands should love their wives as [being in a sense] their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself. For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and carefully protects and cherishes it, as Christ does the church. Ephesians 5:28-19

Our Little Golfer

On Saturday, Daddy went golfing with Uncle Brian and Poppy. I wanted to go, too, and even showed mommy what an excellent golfer I'd be when I picked up my plastic golf club and turned it upside down immediately. Mommy giggled and said that I'd still probably do better than she does with golfing. Mini-golf is more her style. Poppy invited me to come putt for him, but Daddy said that he'd let me come when I'm old enough to learn the game. Since Momma was feeling bored, we headed to Grandma's house for a little while. When we got back, Grandpa Georgia had called to say that he bought me an Atlanta Braves (Daddy's favorite baseball team) bib and some other toys. He invited me to come down to visit him with Mommy & Daddy. I'd love to go, I think! I'm looking forward to going to Grandma & Grandpa Ginder's house Memorial Day weekend, just two weeks before they settle on the sale of that house.

Mommy & Grandma went shoe shopping last night without much luck. Mom did buy one pair of sandals since most of her dress shoes are high heels, which are impossible to wear with a broken toe. So, she got some dress slides for $10 - not a bad deal. Meanwhile I hung out with Daddy & Grandpa Jamie, who's not supposed to be by himself. Grandma bought me some new PJ's that are cotton but long-sleeved and footed - perfect for the cooler but not cold weather we've been having. Thanks, Grandma! I also received a package in the mail from Grandma & Grandpa Ginder & Aunt Erica from Florida - complete with a surfer button-down shirt, cute shorts and adorable matching shoes. I'm anxious to wear them!

This morning Daddy went to Uncle Brian's church because he's getting baptized. He said I probably shouldn't come along because we don't know too much about the church and he'd feel bad if I got fussy. That's okay because momma offered to stay home and play with me. This morning we were working on my physical therapy, and I didn't throw up! In fact, I pulled a singing "bucket" to myself, dumped out the individual blocks, picked them up one-by-one, put each in my mouth having my arms level with my chest or higher, and I didn't fall or sag once. She was very impressed with my abilities. Even Daddy commented on how strong I'm getting. I roll from belly to back and back to belly (mostly back to belly - these days I LOVE to be on my belly). Momma also demonstrated flapping her tongue outside of her mouth and said, Joshua, can you do this? Could I ever! She was amazed when I stuck my tongue out and moved it just like she was doing. I'm growing more and more everyday!

Reflection 19: Win or Lose, I'll Always Think You're Fantastic and Be Proud of You

No Matter How You Play the Game, You Are a Winner in My Eyes.
On the court or the field, I love watching you in action. As far as I'm concerned, no guy is worth watching but you. When you're playing games that are more sedentary, I admire your cleverness. In short, I just enjoy seeing you enjoy yourself. Don't ever think you always need to come out a winner for me to admire you. Whether you win or lose is irrelevant to me. I simply like to see you using those manly muscles God gave you. I just want to have fun with you. I don't need a game score to prove to me what you already know: that you're great. I hope you'll remember to enjoy the pleasures God brings your way and forget about who won and who lost.

'Competition is the spice of sports; but if you make spice the whole meal you'll be sick.' ~George Leonard

You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11

Reflection 18: My Favorite Place to Sit in Church is Next to You

Your Presence With Me in Church Reinforces Right Priorities for Us as a Couple.
Most people have a favorite spot to sit in church: toward the front where they can see, at the back where they can slip out if they have to leave early, off to the side where their friends sit. But I don't care where I sit as long as it's with you. Being in church together honoring God brings me deep contentment. When we share weekly in that most important experience, it sets our priorities and seals our relationship afresh. There is probably no more lonely experience for a wife than to sit in church without her husband, to participate without the person who is her other half. Thank you for sparing me from that. Thank you for being with me in the place that's best for both of us.

'Church attendence is as vital to a disciple as a tranfusion of rich, healthy blood is to a sick man.' ~Dwight L. Moody

Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25

Happy Eighth Month Birthday, Joshua!

I turned 8 months old today! To celebrate, mommy and I played all morning long after she changed my diaper & outfit, fed me a bottle and read to me from one of my favorite books. The book was about all sorts of Bible stories with different things that pop up. All I wanted to do is grab the book and eat it.Do you like my new toy? I sure do! It lights up, plays music and the monkey dances. I can play the piano, guitar or drums - just like mommy!I'm sitting up pretty well on my own now. Mommy typically sits behind me just in case I get tired and can't catch myself when I go to fall. The physical therapist gave us new things to work on now like pivoting, reaching for toys, grabbing smaller toys that I bring up to my mouth to practice balancing without my arms, etc. It's hard work!This is another toy we got. It's an ATM. The Cookie Monster says "Enter Your Secret Cookie Code" (mommy's favorite) and Elmo giggles at any numbers I push. Big Bird asks me how much money I want out, too. I love all the noises it makes. Mostly I love music, though. Right now my favorite song is the Itsy-Bitsy Spider, and I laugh every time momma tells me that the rain "washed the spider out." I also love that the sun comes out again! Yesterday mommy's cousin Cindy came over for lunch, and when we were singing the song, I put my hands together like I was trying to do the spider-part of the hand motions.
I'm having such a great day, I want to call Grandpa Georgia to tell him. Soon I'll have another set of grandparents living in another state. Good thing we found this phone at a yardsale! It sings to me that "the numbers on the phone go beep, beep, beep..." and when I dial anything it rings and a puppy jumps out and says "Hello, is that you?" I giggle at that, but mostly I just like to eat the phone.

Mommy & Daddy took me shopping last night for my new big-boy carseat. I'm ready for it! Mommy also bought a new finger-toothbrush to brush my two teeth (soon to be four, I think!), gums and tongue. That's easier than her trying to wash them with a washcloth like the dentist originally suggested. When she found this brush and flouride-less toothpaste that's safe for infants and recommended by many dentists and the book she's reading on my development, she was pretty happy. Me, too! I like the apple & banana flavor and didn't mind that she was in my mouth as much.

Yesterday we ate lunch outside. It was beautiful out! Today, though, it's pretty chilly. So, I'm dressed in layers. Lately I've been wearing shorts, but I was a little cold this morning. Last night I sat in my high chair while mommy made dinner and I didn't cry or fuss to be held once - a new first for me! It's getting easier for me to sit up in the high chair, so I don't mind as much. Mommy also puts it right next to her island so we can talk and sing as she cooks. She made what Daddy had requested - strawberry shortcakes. The whole way through dinner I licked my lips like I wanted some - someday soon I'll be able to start finger foods!

I slept all through the night last night. Sometimes I wake up, but not last night. Often when I wake up, I can put myself back to sleep, unless I have a dirty diaper or I'm too cold or too hot. Then I need help. Mommy & Daddy are both pretty good at rescuing me. My favorite word to say is da-da-da, and I mostly say ma-ma-ma when I'm in distress. I also say ba-ba. My favorite noise to make is my lips together and pushing out to make a tooting noise. I love when someone listens and does it back to me. That gets a real belly laugh out of me! I'm glad you came to visit my website to share my 8 month birthday with me. I hope you have a good day like I'm having! Love, Joshua

Poor Mommy, Poor Bean

Last night supper was disappointing. I made chicken parmesan, but the chicken must have been thicker than what the recipe called for because it kept being pink when I checked, and meanwhile the pasta, vegetables and sauce were already ready to be eaten since I was assuming the chicken would be cooked by the time the recipe said it should be. Sigh. You win some, you lose some with cooking (or at least I do). The other night I made a 'homestyle bake' with cheesy ham & hashbrowns or something. Anyway, that was so disgusting, we threw it in the trash and got take-out for supper. I followed the directions exactly, so I don't know what went wrong or if we don't particularly care for that type of 'homestyle bake,' which are typically pretty good and very easy to make. Oh well.

Joshua was happy with his dinner - he ate rice cereal and squash with Grandma, who watched him for a few minutes so I could go to the grocery store down the street from her to get the rest of the ingredients I needed for my not-so-wonderful meal. Jamie was supposed to start radiation yesterday, but the electricity went out at the health campus, so now things won't start until Monday.

The Bean has been throwing up consistently these days. I'm not talking just a little tiny bit of spit up, either. I asked the physical therapist her take on it since it's typically when he's working hard - when we have him reaching for toys on his belly (to encourage crawling) or sitting up straight to play for longer periods of time. He doesn't seem bothered by it, but I feel like it's awful not to mention wearing vomit just about everyday is absolutely no fun. She said her son did not do this (he's 18 months old now and was slightly behind on his mobility), so she wasn't sure... I don't know if it's because he's breathing harder and doesn't have the lung capacity so he pumps air into his belly, which comes up with food he's eaten. We don't have him play hard for at least half an hour to an hour after he's eaten, but he's eating more these days, so? I scaled back on his food intake (eliminating the breakfast we had just started) but even giving him a bottle these days takes forever. The PT did say that he is showing all the signs of teething again, which includes lots of drool that's going into his belly, so that could be the culprit, too. I think I'm going to call the pediatrician. He doesn't have another well-baby exam until next month, and I just want to make sure everything's a-okay. He's very happy and doesn't seem affected by it, so I've waited to see if it would pass. But, so far it hasn't.

Reflection 16: Sometimes It's Better to Look at Life with a Child's-Eye View

By Keeping Alive Those Good Childhood Attitudes, You Make Each Day of Our Life Together Special.
Adulthood can be great. (Just ask any child who wants to be one!) Grownups drive cars, stay up late, and don't have to eat their vegetables. Of course, we also have to work and shoulder responsibilities that were not part of childhood. Sometimes those important responsibilities of adulthood make us lose track of the innocence and joy we had as children. I hope you'll always value those childlike traits that some adults scorn. I hope you'll choose trust in both God and others over cynicism, that you'll take time to laugh, and that you'll never lose the ability to be easily pleased by the simple things that make everyday living so sweet. I love you and appreciate your maturity, but always keep the child in you alive. I like him, too.

'Seek the wisdom of the ages but look at the world through the eyes of a child.' ~Ron Wile

I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. Mark 10:15

Reflection 15: You Can't Be a Failure When You're Still Trying

Never See Yourself as a Failure because God Doesn't and Neither Do I.
It's easy for some husbands to let discouragement tarnish their self-image, to look in the mirror and see a failure. But there is a big difference between failing and being a failure. Failing in itself is a mark of courage, because if you fail at something that means you have at least tried, and trying is the trademark of a successful man. True failure lies in never trying, because to not try is to lack courage and faith in God's guidance. The fact that you get up every morning and face a new day of challenges days that you're still in the game. So I hope, even when things aren't going according to plan, that yo'll never look in the mirror and see a failure, because you're not.

'The greatest failure is the failure to try.' ~William Arthur Ward

No matter how many times you trip them up, God-loyal people don't stay down long. Soon they're up on their feet, while the wicked end up flat on their faces. Provers 24:16

Reflection 14: Your Willingness to Really Listen Proves You Really Care

Your Willingness to Listen Inspires Me to Share With You My Deepest Thoughts & Concerns.
Women love to talk. You probably figured that out long ago. We talk when we're happy, we talk when we're excited, and we really like to talk when we have a problem. Talking helps us cope with our troubles, disappointments, and frustrations. Some men can turn all that talking into background noise and tune it out. Thanks for not doing that. Thanks for showing genuine interest in my thoughts and concerns, for reining in your frustration when you don't agree with what I'm saying and instead patiently listening. When you listen it speaks volumes to me. It says you care about what I feel and think. It tells me I'm important to you and that what I have to say matters. Thanks for being a good listener.

'One of the best ways to demonstrate God's love is to listen to people.' ~Bruce Larsen

My dear brothers and sisters, always be willing to listen and slow to speak. Do not become angry easily. James 1:19

Sunday = Happy Mother's Day, Mommy!

Sunday was a precious day. We woke up early in the morning, and Shawn fed Joshua while I slept a few more minutes. We went to church as a family, even though Shawn had to be there early since he was scheduled for the A/V that morning. People LOVE Joshua, and by 10:30 he had had enough "attention" and started to cry. I gave him another bottle to soothe him, which put him right to sleep...right up until they called the moms up front and I handed him over to Shawn who had just came downstairs. It was my first ever mother's day! The church gave us a CD of devotions, which I'm looking forward to hearing. Every mom present crowded together up front in the middle of the altar and husbands, kids and other women surrounded them and they prayed for all sorts of things, including protection. On a side note, I woke up in the middle of the night last night thinking about the recent murders in Manheim Township and wondered if we remembered to lock our door - then I remembered this prayer of protection and felt completely peaceful and at ease.

After we went back to our seats, the Bean had had enough for the day, so we left slightly early and came home. I don't know why, but both Joshua & I were beat. So, we took a nap. Daddy, on the other hand, emptied the dishwasher and reloaded it, mowed the yard and dug out a box of summer clothes from the garage for me. When I woke up, there were beautiful flowers on the table, a box of girl scout cookies, a little teddy bear and a balloon that said "Happy Mother's Day." I tried to thank Shawn, and he kept insisting that Joshua did it all himself. Then, last night he gave me a card:

A Mother's Day Poem from Your New Baby:

You are my mom

and I am glad.

You're too cute

to be my dad.

You give me much,

I give you little

except a lot of poop

and some spittle...

You feed me,

change me

(when I smell),

and hold me

when I'm not

so well.

You always

wipe my runny nose

and don't seem to mind

when I stain my clothes...

You calm me

when I throw a fit

and clean me

when I'm full of ... spit!

For all these

selfless things you do...

HERE'S A CARD

FROM ME TO YOU!

Happy Mother's Day!

The cutest part is that Shawn allowed Joshua to sign it with marker - his first ever artwork. Shawn said it went well until he tried to eat the marker. It's so adorable! I have the best husband and son!

We left not long thereafter to go to mom's house. Mike cooked out on the grill, making ribs, shrimp, salmon & asparagus for supper. (You'll see the pictures of Grace & Jamie, who we jokingly said had the same messy faces since ribs are hard to eat...they both seemed to enjoy them, though.) While supper was cooking, I played with the girls as Shawn fed Joshua. We played the "dance until the music stops" game with Grace shouting stop. I swung Emma around, and all the kids road their bikes in the driveway. We gave mom her gifts, which included pictures of all the grandchildren together. Grace told me she has two sisters, Faith & Emma, but she probably really has three sisters because her mommy is having a baby. I laughed - she was so cute. After dessert, I had all three of Jen's kids and Joshua on my lap reading a book. But, soon the Bean tired of this and we headed for home. I hope you had a nice mother's day, mom! I couldn't ask for a better momma!

We also bought cards for Shawn's mom (one from us & one from the Bean) and then realized that we should have sent them sooner since they're in Florida. Shawn called her last night, though. Afterward, we watched the season end to Survivor. Before we prayed at the end of the night, Shawn gave me the biggest compliment when he said there's no one else he'd rather have raising his son and no better momma for the Bean than me. It was so sweet and made me teary because I often feel like I'm "underprepared" for this job. We fell asleep after a fabulous weekend in time for Shawn to get about six hours of sleep (poor guy!).

BEAN!

A couple of notes on Joshua's progress: he now seems to enjoy sleeping on his belly, just like his daddy. We always start him on his back, just like the doctors recommend; however, he always rolls onto his belly now when he sleeps. He can roll over again anytime he wants to, so we don't worry about it. I can also tell his arms are getting stronger as I go in in the mornings and he is basically doing a push-up to see me. This morning, I increased his 'table' feedings to three times a day. He had rice cereal with bananas for breakfast, fruits & veggies for lunch, and then we'll do rice cereal with veggies for supper. (We only recently introduced fruit into his diet, and he still prefers the veggies, but that's okay). I recently re-read all of the literature on his eating, and Joshua should be taking in even more than he is now (which seems like a lot to us). He should be having an 8 oz. bottle at least four times a day (sometimes we struggle with getting exactly 32 oz into him, but he comes close), along with the solids he's eating, which is supposed to include meat. I haven't even begun to try the meat yet, mostly because I think the baby meat smells like cat vomit. My sister said I should try the mixes of meats with other things like fruits & veggies, which I will do once I think the Bean can handle it. When we were at mom's the one day, she gave him a graham cracker, which he LOVED. I was nervous, but he did just fine, and the one time he did get a piece to big to swallow, he simply spit it back out into daddy's hand. He also seems to understand some words that we say, which amazes me. We were playing this morning, and he sat up on his own unassisted for at least ten minutes to play with one of his new toys. I kept waiting for him to fall backwards or start to slide to the side, but he did really well with his balance. I see HUGE improvements every day. I read the book Grandma Good had gotten for him for Christmas - Stanley the Stinkbug - again to him today and he kept pointing to the pictures (as well as trying to eat the book, of course). He still seems to love music - even Grandma Stoltzfus commented about that - and gabs almost non-stop now. He is doing so amazingly well! I am a proud mommy. :)

Saturday = Happy Birthday, Daddy!

Saturday Shawn turned 29 years old (for the first time). Joshua gave him a t-shirt that said "Best Dad Ever - Hands Down" that has paint to actually put his hand prints on it. He also gave him pictures of himself framed and a cute card that thanked him for being his Dad. I also had presents wrapped & cards for my handsome husband Shawn.
Joshua woke us up early, but that was okay because we had planned on going to yard sales to look for toys, baseball cards and any other treasures we might find. Joshua spent some time with Grandma & Grandpa Jamie and we went to two development yardsales in Leola where we struck gold. I literally filled my SUV with new toys for the Bean (altogether equaling less than the price of one toy at the store), bought a new electric knife to carve things like the Thanksgiving turkey, and Shawn got an entire pitcher of meadow tea made just like his mom's (his absolute favorite). One toy we bought I recognized from our church's nursery and knew that Bean liked playing with it there. Sure enough, the moment he saw it he tried to grab it. However, I took them all in to clean with clorox bleach wipes before letting him play with them. Now, they look as good as new, and he's loving them!

That afternoon, we got dressed up and headed out for Don (Shawn's cousin) and Jessica's wedding, which was truly beautiful. Weddings make you remember all the good things that God says about marriage and helps you appreciate your spouse. While we were there, Grandma Stoltzfus - Bonnie's mom - was kind enough to watch Joshua, which was so sweet of her. After the wedding, I took Shawn out to eat for his birthday to Carrabba's (his choice, simply because it was close to our house and we were both missing the Bean). We went to pick up Joshua, and he was clutching two little teddy bears as he slept...it was SO adorable!

After we came home, I fell asleep watching the movie we rented. It was a wonderful day, and I'm so glad that 29 years ago the man of my dreams was born.

Reflection 13: When You Are Determined, You Can Conquer Anything

Keeping Your Eyes Fixed On Your Goals and Remaining Determined Not to Give Up Will Help You Meet and Master Any Challenge.
The most powerful tool you own is the manly determination God put in you, that driving power that kicks in when you face a challenge or problem. It's what makes you clench your jaw and roll up your sleeves and mutter, "I will not be beaten by this." It's what turns your brain to problem-solving instead of worrying. It's what makes you proactive rather than reactive. It will give you courage to face discouragement and naysayers. It will give you the strength to push past obstacles and make good things happen. Some men tened to neglect this tool; they let it sit around and get rusty. But I'm confident you won't do that. Whatever challenges you may face, your determination will carry you through.

'Let us not be content to wait and see what will happen, but give us the determination to make the right thing happen.' ~Peter Marshall

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24

Cheese Bucket

Shawn has said over and over again this week that the Bean has been a cheese bucket - he is smiling and laughing and SO much fun! He's been 'talking' in his baby language and laughs away as we giggle. He is also exploring more with his toys and just an overall joy to be with. Mom also commented on what a smiley little boy he is.

Reflection 11: Your Generous Attitude Makes Me Proud

Your Generosity Proves How Confident & Capable You Are.
When you're generous it says many things to me. It speaks of your kind heart and your willingness to reflect the generous nature of God. It also says something that you might not be aware of. It testifies that you are a man who can afford to be generous because you're capable of replacing whatever you give away. You're confident that your strength and ability, guided by the hand of God, will bring whatever we need, so you are happy to share with others who may be less capable. I hope you never listen when fear tempts you to turn miserly. Remain confident in God's power and your abilities. Keep an open mind. Stay generous. There's no need to be anything less.

'The world says, the more you take, the more you have. Christ says, the more you give, the more you are.' ~Frederick Buechner

Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor. Proverbs 22:9

Reflection 10: The Way to Your Wife's Heart is Through Her Honey-Do List

Help Me Tackle Those Difficult Household Tasks, and I-Love-You's Will Come Through Loud & Clear.
Flowers are great, dinner out is a nice treat, and compliments are much appreciated. And, in case you've forgotten, chocolate is always a tasteful offering. But when you get to the honey-do list, you really get me. That's because the items on that list aren't usually wife-friendly chores. Fix the leak under the sink - sprawl out under there at an awkward angle and get dripped on? Not likely. Change the oil in the car - yuck! There are just some household chores better matched to a man's genes than a woman's. When you do those things for me it makes my life so much easier. And when you use your valuable time to do them, it spells LOVE in capital letters.

'Love is not something you feel. It's something you do.' ~David Wilkerson

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Phillipians 2:4

Reflection 9: Your True Success Stretches Beyond the Borders of the Workplace.

Always Look at the Big Picture of Your Life and You'll See How Really Successful You Are.
I look at you and see a man smart enough to avoid confining the measure of his success to the workplace. That is only a small part of who you are. You want to achieve in all areaso of your life, mastering new skills and meeting new challenges. You want to be rich in good relationships. You want to pursue hobbies and interests that develop new strengths and talents. Please don't limit your defintion of success to promotions and raises, becuase who you are is so much bigger than what you do at work. I hope you'll always keep your life rich in interests, in working with good causes, and investing in the people who are important to you. That is the mark of a truly successful man.

'A man can be so busy making a living that he forgets to make a life.' ~William Barclay

One man considers himself rich, yet has nothing [to keep permanently]; another man considers himself poor, yet has great [and indestructible] riches. Proverbs 13:7 AMP

Our Stud in New (to us) Duds

This morning, Joshua was sitting in his bumbo seat and bent over, clutched a plastic ring toy from his stacker and picked it up off the ground. One, he can barely reach the ground from the seat and two, he just started to really grab things in a way that he could pull them. I was amazed...he's growing so quickly!

Last night I went through the many bins of Grant's clothing that Gayle lent us, and Joshua's chifferobe & closet are now full (thanks so much!). Grant had a lot of cute things, and we now have clothing for both hot and cold days in a size that shouldn't be too short on the Bean.

Tonight is our night to help out with youth group. At this point, we're not ready for the kids to swarm Joshua, so just one of us goes when it's our turn. We weren't quite ready to give up helping completely, but we've scaled back quite a bit.