The start of a new adventure...

Today my little man got braces and the "lovely" (sarcasm implied!) expander. I was so proud of him. He was really scared, but he did great. The colors of his bands are Colt's colors. His choice, I promise!
I wasn't sure we were going to get ther because of the slick road conditions. I made it fine to the entrance, but once I made it to the hill in front of the office, I began to slide. I ended up sideways on the road. I tried several times to either turn into the office parking lot or just go backward into another lot. I tried to no avail. A young gentlemen and his wife came by and said that they had been tyring for half an hour to get her car up the hill. yikes! The young man tried everything to get me moving. He eventually got into the van (with Andrew screaming...) and got the van down the hill and into another parking lot. I was very thankful for him!
I had to bring Andrew with me (that was not part of our plan) because my friend had to wait for the bus and couldn't leave her children. :) I was very surprised and delighted at how well Andrew did. There were some loud and tense moments, but overall he did amazing.

Jarod is being such a trooper tonight. Eating only yogurt and applesauce can be kinda boring. He hasn't even asked for meds to help with the pain. I am so proud of my big guy! Here's hoping to no more sliding and randmon generous strangers on our next visit!

my long lost blog...

Okay, so it hasn't been exactly lost, but I seem to have been slacking off in the journaling department lately. Not because there hasn't been anything to write about! I just haven't been wanting to write.
Things have been a little rough around here in the world of autism lately. I feel like we are stuck in the never ending age of 3. (Drew is 5 1/2). I know that he gets frustrated when he can't tell us what he wants or when he can't find something he is so desperately looking for. There are times when I just want this roller coaster of emotions to stop. I want to crawl inside his brain and see what he sees, think what he thinks. I feel at a loss for what do to do for him. I feel helpless.
I realized the other day when he wasn't invited to a birthday that Drew doesn't have any friends. When I drop him off at school, there is absolutely no contact with the other kids. He spins around in circles and talks to himself. I want him to have friends! I know it will take time...I know that in my head, but my heart aches for all that he is missing.
I guess this is why I haven't been writing. I don't want to be vulnerable. People say to me that they don't know how I do it. To be honest, I don't know either. It's all the Lord!! Those people don't see me when I lose it in the van or at home.

so, there you go...it's been a hard month. I am not feeling very thankful much. I'm working on it and maybe I can post something a little more positive soon. Thanks for listening.

Another Monday...

Monday mornings are usually a grumpy filled, not wanting to get up day. But today, the boys slept in a little, I am dressed and ready for the day, Jarod volunteered to practice piano and Drew is in a delightful mood. thank you Lord for a great start to the week!

Thankful Friday...

Here's my 5 things I'm thankful for on this raining, grey day...

1. I am thankful for a good parent teacher conference with Jarod's teacher. He got all A's on his report card. (This is a first for actual letter grades.) We are so proud of him!

2. I spent time in Drew's class on Thursday at the fall party. It went really well. I hadn't been helping in his class yet because I was anxious of his reactions to me in the class. But I was pleasantly surprised. He went to all the centers and seemed to enjoy himself. And then we were able to go home a little early! I realized the other day that I didn't want to miss out on Drew's activities in his class just because I was afraid of his reaction to me being there.

3. My friend's son came over yesterday and raked leaves for us. That was a blessing. However, there are now more leaves on the ground, plus the ones he didn't get to. I guess Eric and I will have finish the job this weekend!

4. I helped out in the children's department at BSF on Thursday. I always enjoying helping out down there. It almost makes me miss teaching!

5. This weekend has nothing on the calendar! That hasn't happened in a long time!! Looking forward to having family time!

Six on Saturday

1. I am thankful for a lazy Saturday at home. We watched some movies and then had some friends over. After the kiddos are in bed, we have a friend coming over so Eric and I can go out for a mini date. We won't be gone long, but at least we'll be out of the house!

2. I absolutely LOVE the fall. I am always in awe at God's amazing creativity and imagination when the leaves turn colors. This is my favorite time of year when the colors just explode on the leaves. I love the smells of fires burning, hot apple cider and the cold of the air on my nose. This season just doesn't last long enough for me!

3. Eric's been busy these last couple of weekends with scout training. He really loves helping out! I'm thankful that he takes volunteering with Jarod's scout troupe seriously. It's neat to hear other moms talk about how much they respect Eric. Some of those moms are single moms and it makes me proud to know that he is making a difference in these boys' lives.

4. Before we left to visit Magic Kingdom for the first time, Jarod's glasses broke in two. They were old and needed to be replaced, but having them break in FL was not on my agenda. I am so thankful for Disney and their kindess in getting us to WalMart to get new frames. I am also very thankful for the effort of the lady at the optical center at WalMart that fitted Jarod's lenses into the black frames! Jarod could have had purple lenses!

5. I just love our eye dr. We were able to move up our appointment to last week so we could get new frames and lenses. Jarod can wear his black frames as a back up. I'm so thankful!

6. I am thankful that we have not been struck with the flu at our house. We all have the sniffles to some degree, but we can handle that! Thank you Lord for keeping the Hansen's healthy!

I'm back!

I know, I know. What happened to blogging? I don't have an answer. All I know is that I want to start blogging again.

I'm missing Rachel today. She passed away 6 months ago. Hard to believe that she's not here. I'm thankful for my hope in Christ!

I'm happy that we went on vacation, but Jarod is still trying to catch up on homework. I don't think his teacher is all that worried about it. But I still want him to get it done.

I went to my friend's house today for their "welcome back home" open house. they had a fire last spring and lost just about everything. it was wonderful to see them back in their house with all the new things. So happy for them!

Well, now that I've started, I think I'll give my brain a rest. Just some rambling thoughts today.

Six on Saturday

I haven't had much time to sit and reflect on God's faithfulness recently. I need to do that more. We've been traveling some and with both boys on summer break, I don't get a whole lot of time to sit down.

So, I have some time now between loads of laundry, the dishwasher running and Drew watching a video.

1. I am so thankful for some "me" time this last week. I went swim suit shopping by myself. Not that I love shopping for a new suit, but I could take my time and try things on without having a child in tow.

2. We were able to take a mini vacation last weekend to Eric's cousin's wedding. it was a beautiful outdoor wedding at her home. There was a DJ and has soon as the music started playing, Drew was up and dancing. It was great to see him having such a great time. The disco lights were a hit too. Jarod made friends with a second cousin who also loves star wars. The two of them spent several hours on the front porch playing with star wars figures. Eric and I were able to visit with family and had a great time. Then we spent the rest of the weekend visiting our friends, the Billman's, in MI. They live in a beautiful home with land and a pool. The boys had a blast. It was good to reconnect with them. When the Billman's were living in Fort Wayne, we would get together almost every Sunday evening for dinner and cards.

3. I am thankful that we are in a financial place that is relatively safe. I'm thankful that we can continue to support missionaries and their work. I feel humbled and blessed.

4. I am thankful for the summer school program that Drew is involved in. The program is at Haverhill this summer, where Drew will go in the fall. It is also in the kindergarten classroom that he will be in when school starts. How cool is that?! Everytime I start to freak out about kindergarten, I remember that he's already got a start and knows where his classroom will be!

5. A few weeks ago, I was able to reconnect with a special friend from college. She has moved back to the area. I am so thankful that we were able to catch up and talk. I am looking forward to spending more time with her!

6. We are still looking for a new church home. We have visited some wonderful places! We will go back to Emmanuel tomorrow. There will be a buddy for Drew. I am so thankful for that!

Stop thinking!

I have been thinking way too much recently about all the "what ifs". I need to stop doing that! Making a decision for a new church home has been taking a toll on my emotions lately. We have tried some great churches and there are positives about each one. But which one is for us? A lot of my thoughts have been about my own insecurites of fitting it. Will I be able to use my gifts in a large church where everything is done to the upmost degree? I sing, but will I be able to sing on praise team? I teach, but will I be able to teach preschool like I did before?
I just need to let go and let God lead us to where He wants us. I know that I will need time to be refreshed before I dive into serving. So, why am I thinking so much?
I think this post is just for me to write down what I'm thinking and get it out of my brain. It's good to think about the answers to my questions, but I also know that God will use my gifts to glorify Him. It may not look like what I wanted, but I have to trust that God knows best!

Okay...brain is alittle less crowded now.

An ordinary Tuesday

I thought today would be just an ordinary Tuesday with lots of whining between the boys, laundry, cleaning, and just hanging out. It has turned to be delightfuly pleasant. Nothing earth shattering, but still, I have a smile on my face!
First of all, the boys and I slept in until 8am! That in itself is a big deal in our house! The boys both have a tendancy to wake up early when they don't have too. I was delighted to get some extra rest this morning!
Second, I was able to take a nice long hot shower. I take showers most days, but they are usually interrupted by a child needing something. Today, no interruptions!
After my nice shower, I realized that we really didn't have much for lunch so I thought, "hmmm. Let's go out to lunch. hmmm...Wonder what Eric is doing for lunch?" We ended up driving to Kendallville and had lunch at McDonalds. As we were driving through downtown Kendallville, Jarod said, "You know, Mom, Kendallville is like New York. All the buildings are pushed together!" I tried not to laugh too much. I think that was the line of the day!
We had a nice lunch with Dad and then drove off. On a whim, I thought we could go to the zoo. We had visited the new African Journey, so both boys agreed. The zoo wasn't terribly crowded, in spite of all the cars and full parking lots. Andrew walked with Jarod most of the time and was fine to go see the new lions. I even sent them on the train by themselves! That's a first.
Jarod was awesome with Andrew today! I was and am so proud of him! it's not been easy for Jarod dealing with Andrew's autism sometimes. But, today he was just big brother!
I am so thankful that we had a really fun time today. Andrew didn't mind the spur of the moment ideas and was very flexible. Jarod helped out and was a joy to watch.
Thanks God for showing me the simple things today and to take time to enjoy them!

It's Friday!

The school year is almost done. At 3:30pm today, I will have a third grader in my home. Where has the time gone? I will also have a kindergartener. I am so thankful for great teachers this year for the boys! Mrs. C has been such an encourager to Jarod. What a blessing! And then there is Mrs. L and Mrs. D for Andrew. We have been with them for 3 years. It is very hard to say goodbye to them! They both have become mentors to me and friends. I am anxious about next year for both my boys, but I know that God has prepared a path for them and I am excited to see where it leads!



I am also thankful for a wonderful time celebrating Rachel's life on Monday with a bunch of friends. It was nice to be around others who loved Rachel and that I wasn't sitting at home with my thoughts. We called it: Rachel's first birthday in Paradise!



I finally have my living room painted ! It's a very warm beautiful gold color. My folks came up and helped. As sad as it sounds, it was my first time to paint a room. It wasn't nearly as hard as I thought it would be. I'm hoping to paint the kitchen before the end of the summer. We'll see if I actually make that goal.

I had planned to post this on Friday, but my little Andrew decided he didn't like it up on the computer screen. So, he hit the "x" and I haven't had a chance to get back to it. I'm thankful for automatic save!

Five on Friday

1. I am so thankful for a great meeting on Monday on behalf of Andrew. There were 12 people there that have or will have an active part in his education. I'm not going to say it takes a village to raise a child, but I am so blessed to have all of these people around me to support Andrew. I am pleased with the "plan" that we came up with for Kindergarten. It will be a trial and error time for the first few weeks and the plan can be (and should be) tweaked once every one figures out Andrew's cues and personality.

2. I am thankful for MOPS. It has been a huge blessing in my life as my boys have grown. I have been involved with MOPS for about 8 years. I have grown in so many ways because of it: as a leader, a mom, a wife, a friend and a follower of Christ. Thank you MOPS for the impact you have made in my life!

3. I have spent time on my porch this week just relaxing and enjoying the weather. I love my porch and I am thankful for it!

4. I had my last BSF class and fellowship on Thursday. I am so thankful for BSF and the depth of its teaching. I have learned so much about my God through the study of Moses this year. I think one of the lessons I have learned is that even with past failures, God can and will still use me. Moses sinned and asked "why". God used him in a mighty way. I'm so thankful that God loves me enough to use me.

5. I am thankful that today is a day at home with no real agenda! I'll take Andrew to get his hair cut, but that's the only outing I hope to make today. Ahhh....

My five on Friday

1. I was able to take a long walk this week. It was a cool morning and the sun was shining. Eric had surprised me some time ago with an MP3 player and I listened to it the whole time. I'm thankful for that time to be in God's creation and enjoy that time to myself.

2. I had a wonderful time with Pamela and Kris this week getting pedicures. It was so relaxing and fun to be with special friends. My toes look great!

3. I am thankful for lunch with Lisa this week. I appreciate her friendship more and more each time we get together. I am blessed by her.

4. Andrew is putting more words together each day. The other day he said, "I need help!" He also told Jennifer this morning, "Jennifer, go upstairs." He is getting so verbal! And that's a good thing, right? Just kidding... I am also thankful that Andrew loves listening to Bible songs in the car. He will now go around the house and sing "Jesus Loves Me". I tear up almost everytime I hear it! At school on Monday, he was playing Bob the Builder in the kitchen area and was singing "michael row your boat ashore". How cute!

5. I had my last day of discussion with BSF on Thursday. I have been so blessed to be with a great group of gals this year. I have learned that God is a promise keeper and that He loves his people so much, even in their sin. God is a God of details and he cares about every little thing. What an awesome God we serve!

Thankful

It's early. Andrew threw up in bed sometime last night. He's in my bed. Load of bedding is being washed. This is not how my Friday was supposed to begin. I have company coming tonight, which will probably have to be cancelled.

Now that my griping is done I HAVE to think of something to be thankful for because to be honest, I'm not feeling that thankful right now. IT's been a hard couple of weeks. So, here I go...

1. I am thankful that I got to spend 3 wonderful hours with my best friend from high school last weekend. We don't get to see each other that often, but when we do, we can just pick up from where we left off. We talked the whole time and laughed a lot. It was good therapy for me!

2. My parents have been great through all the tragedy that has surrounded me. They came up to help while I was grieving for my friend Rachel. That was so helpful to me!

3. I am thankful that I got to spend a morning with my friend's kids. I took them to the zoo and we had a wonderful time. I like taking Andrew to the zoo, but he just likes to run and look at the fish. This time, I was able to interact with the 4 year little girl. It was refreshing to my soul. Thanks Melanie for asking me.

4. My best friend is home from Papua New Guinea! I am SO THANKFUL for that! We have talked on the phone just about every day. What a blessing.

5. I'm thankful for First Missionary Church and that it has been our home for 11 years. We are saying goodbye this summer. We need to find a place where we can get little Andrew's needs met. It has not been an easy decision, but it's the right one for our family. We have loved the people at FMC dearly and still do. Thank you for being like a second family to us!

Andrew loves our neighbors

Here's a note from our neighbor, Cathleen from Friday:

Becky,I have to tell you about this - it was so funny. Drew came over and rang our doorbell. The kids answered and he came right in. He went straight for the Veggie Tales dvds, found one and took it. Meanwhile, your father-in-law was at the door by then, but he wanted to sit down and watch it. We got him back to the door, got him to let us make sure the dvd was in there, and he was off...Well, guess he likes us now!!! Thought you'd get a chuckle out of that. I thought it was fairly classic myself!

This gave me the biggest laugh of the week. Now, I guess we are on a month to month fee for movie rentals from across the street!

I miss you, Rachel

On Saturday, April 18 my dear friend, Rachel went home to be with Jesus. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 10 years, Scott; her daughter, Aleah (6), son, Bruce (4) and daughter, Caynah (1 week).

I will miss her laugh, encouragement, fashion and make-up advice, and our phone conversations. Rachel loved her family, friends and her Lord. She will be missed by so many, but is now dancing and singing in Heaven with her Savior.

five on Friday

1. I am thankful for a great time of sharing at our fellowship for Bible study on Thursday. I am in a very neat group of women. I feel blessed to call them my friends. My mom came up from Indy to pick up Andrew from school so I could host the group at my house. Thanks, Mom!

2. I actually went to a movie on Wednesday night. I saw Slumdog Millionare. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the movie! Apparently, the slums of India were shown true to form in the movie. What an eye opener for me. I take so much for granted! Thank you, Jesus for my many many blessings here in the U.S.

3. My very cool hubby bought me an MP3 player this week. I'm not exactly sure how to use it yet, but it will be fun tohave. I would like to start walking in the mornings after the boys go to school and now I will some music to listen to as I walk!

4. Even though Jarod was sick on Easter and we missed services at church, it was nice to have a relaxing day at home.

5. I am so thankful for the sun and this warmer weather. I was able to walk around Jefferson Pointe today. It was wonderful!

Random pics...

It's not every day that Andrew likes to be this close to his brother. I just love when Andrew and Jarod can sit together on the couch in their jammies and watch Veggie Tales. What a blessing to catch this rare moment!
I was able to spend some time with my dear college friend, Mary on Good Friday. She has a daughter with special needs and has been a great prayer warrior in regards to Andrew. Mary and I, along with Valerie, had a wonderful senior year at Huntington. We spent at least once a week talking, praying together, encouraging, reading scripture, laughing until we cried and crying until we were exhausted. Those were special times!

Mary and I just talked and talked on Friday. It was so refreshing! Andrew felt right at home in their house. He even found an apple in their refrigerator. Andrew also bonded with Mary right away and allowed her to hold him and pick him up. Mary was veyr touched by that! We both had tears in our eyes!

I walked in Mary's house to find that the little girl I once knew was now a beautiful young "tween". Nikole was the first baby born to the three of us college gals. Now she is in the fourth grade and has a very sweet disposition. BryAnna is now almost six. She was born on my brother's birthday. I can remember the day Bry was born and how scared everyone was. After some surgeries and therapies and two parents who pushed hard to fight the school system, Bry is a spunky, TALKING, tom-boy of a darling. It was so cool to see her without fear and trying to interact with Andrew.

It was a special time for me! I hope we can get together again soon!

Good Friday 5

1. First and foremost, I am thankful for the sacrifice of Christ for my sins. I am nothing without Him! What an amazing God we have!

2. I was able to spend several hours with my college friend, Mary today. It has been way too long since we have seen each other. She only lives an hour a way, but our schedules just don't match up. We had a wonderful of talking and laughing. Drew warmed up to her right away and even let her tickle him. Mary has a child with special needs and it always makes me feel refreshed when I'm with her. She knows and understands the trials and the joys of little successes.

3. Jarod received a great report card this week. I am so thankful that he likes school and has a great teacher. Second graders do not receive letter grades yet, so next year will be interesting to see how he does. Eric and I are always telling Jarod to just to his best; that's all we ask.

4. I love my hairstylist! I've been seeing her long enough now that I can tell her to surprise me with a hair color and she knows just how far to push the envelope that I don't freak out. I was fortunate to get a cut and color this week. I needed a pick me up! I am so thankful for her!

5. I am thankful for God and his promises, faithfulness, sovreignty, love, majesty, trust, control, and His son, Jesus.

Friday's 5

1. I am thankful for a great spring break! We went to Indy the first part of the week and spent time with the grandparents. We even braved all the other spring breakers at the Children's Museum. I love having the kids home and being on our own schedule instead of a school schedule.

2. It's Sharie's birthday today! I'm thankful for such a loving sister-in-law who fits so naturally into our family. She and my brother, Mitch are great parents to two great kids, Kylie and Trent! I just wish they all lived closer!

3. I don't like it when my kiddos are sick. However, it is nice to have snuggle time! Andrew's had a bad cold this week. Grandma even got to snuggle with Drew while he dozed off for a nap. Yes, Andrew took a nap! I am very thankful for that!

4. I am thankful for IHOP, Stake n Shake, Pizza Hut and other resteraunts in Fort Wayne that worked with Austism Speaks on Thursday night. They gave 10% of sales that night to help the cause of autism. Stacey and Cathleen: Thank you for supporting our family by eating at IHOP! You guys are such good friends!

5. I got to talk with Pamela the other night! I am so thankful that they made it to Hawaii safely and are having a wonderful time with Phil's sister. I am looking forward to being able to talk with Pamela regularly and face to face. it's been way too long! Just a few more weeks and she will be here in Fort Wayne!

Friday's five

1. I am thankful that God was watching over my friends who had a house fire two weeks ago. I can't even imagine what that must be like. They lost pretty much everything, but lives were spared and they are trusting in Him through this whole process.

2. I am thankful for the free tickets to a concert on Wed. night. I haven't laughed so hard in a long time! In fact, I laughed so hard that I cried. Who knew that John Tesh was so funny!?

3. Andrew's teachers have written some great comments in his notebook the last week or so. Here is just a taste:

3/11 Today was a good day! Our normal routine was disrupted by pictures and gym, but Andrew was OK! He was anxious to get back to the room to work on " his" puzzle! He can complete it by himself now, but does allow friends to help!!

3/17 Andrew had a very happy day. Lisa (OT) commented how "chatty" he was today!

3/18 Andrew greeted Jimmy "Hello Jimmy" with a big smile and no prompts. Played for 5 min. with doctor props with Jimmy and Isaac with prompting from Mrs. Dark. Pulled Jimmy on scooter board in gym with hula hoop from 1 side of gym to the other with verbal prompts!

I am just so thankful that God is working in my little guy. We continue to see him growing in so many ways!

4. The boys have had 2 half days of school this week. It has been great having them home!

5. How wonderful it has been to be outside! I am thankful for the warmer weather! Andrew and I went to the swings the other day and just enjoyed being outside together!

my 5

1. I am so thankful for this warmer weather! I pulled out my flip flops and welcomed spring with painted toe nails!

2. I'm thankful that my 8 year old still wants to sit on my lap occasionaly. I'm not sure how much longer my lap will be able to accomadate a growing boy, but I until then, I will just enjoy those moments. What a blessing to watch Jarod grow and to see him trusting in the Lord.

3. My husband as planned dinner for tonight and tomorrow! Tonight we will be making our own pizzas and tomorrow he will make yummy chicken moo shoo. I am so thankful that Eric likes to cook and is willing to share the cooking duties. I will gladly hand that over to him anytime he wants it!

4. I'm thankful for sparkly jewelry. I bought some bracelets the other day and it just brightens my day when I put them on. I don't think Andrew likes the jingle sound the make, but I'm hopeful he will get used to them!

5. Andrew rode his scooter today. It was so fun watching him do something that he couldn't do about 6 months ago. Of course, all the way to the playground, he would stop and pick up a leaf that was in his way and put it in the grass. I am thankful him and the life that God has given him. What a blessing (most days...) to witness it.

A Hero?

Someone told me yesterday that I was their hero. She said that she couldn't do what I do with Andrew 24/7. She even got a little teary eyed.

I've been thinking about that a lot. I don't feel like I am hero. I do what I do because I have to as a mom, but also because I want what is best my Drew.

Me? Come on....really? I don't feel as though I do anything special or outstanding. Sometimes I even feel like a big fat failure.

I met with Andrew's speech therapist yesterday too. The early childhood coordinator was also there. They both said that I am such a great mom and that I know Andrew better than anyone. They are impressed with how well Andrew has progressed in this year and they account that to me.

Wow. I am so humbled. I can sometimes get a big head when I am praised, but this time is different. I've been thinking about how people see me. It's not enough for them to see me as a good mom or teacher, but as a Christ follower. I hope that these people see something "different" in me and that it allows me to share my faith with them. I haven't been in the Word as much as I would like this last couple of weeks. We've had some rough days with Drew and maybe that's why I don't feel like I am a hero or this great mom. In fact, I'm feeling pretty low this week. (I think it's the gray clouds).

However, even in the low moments, I am so aware of God's presence. These people have given me encouragement! And I am reminded of Isaiah 40:28-31

Do you not know?

Have you not heard?

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary,

the will walk and not be faint.

Thanks for letting me share my heart. Praise God for his promises!

It's 5 on Friday

1. I am so thankful for such a great special needs program that Andrew is a part of. I am already sad thinking about leaving that place of security for him and me. Andrew's teacher was so positive today at our annual case conference. She keeps telling me that Andrew will thrive in kindergarten and that he will be okay. What a blessing! All the encouragment will not keep me from crying on preschool graduation day, though!
2. Jarod has started reading books on his own. He's been able to read for a while, but has still wanted ERic or I to read to him. Yesterday, he was sitting in our comfy red chair reading a chapter book on (what else?...) Star Wars. I was so proud and thankful that he likes and wants to read. He's growing up so fast!
3. My house looks really picked up today! I have been trying to keep the toys, videos, books, etc.... picked up so my house doesn't seem so cluttered. I'm thankful for friends that keep me accountable and that I am trying to be on top of things. Anyone want to come over? There's actually a seat on the couch for you!
4. I'm thankful that I'm needed. It's nice to feel needed.
5. I'm thankful for a loving husband and that communication is a good thing! (One would think that after 12 years, we would have figured that out by now.)

finally

Greetings to those of you who read this blog. I know it's been a while. I get the winter blues sometimes and I just haven't felt like writing anything. Today was much better since the sun was out! So, here are my 5 for Friday...

1. Andrew is becoming more successful at the potty all the time. I didn't think this day would ever come! He still will not tell us when he has go, but I haven't run out of underwear in one day in a very long time. He will even go poo poo inthe potty if the door to the bathroom is closed and he is alone. Guess he just needs his privacy! I am so thankful for this breakthrough!

2. I am so thankful the Eric has a steady job and that we were able to purchase a new used mini van last week. Our white van had been with us since Jarod was born, 8 years ago. It was still running fine, but we needed something with a little more leg room. (our boys are long legged). Eric and I headed down to Decatur and found a really good deal on a blue mini van. I feel very blessed!

3. We went down to Indy last weekend to celebrate my grandma's 94th birthday. She probably didn't know any of us, but it was really neat to be with my cousin and my uncle again. I see them maybe once a year. I remember spending the night at my grandma's house. Grandma would always greet me with her arms open wide and a smile. "Oh, BECKYYYYY!" she would say. She would make popcorn on the stove with lots of butter and we would watch an old black and white movie. Then when it was time for bed, she would tuck in my with a very soft brown blanket that the cat loved. I can still smell the way her house smelled. I found a perfume once that had the same scent, but never did purchase it. I think I want it to just stay in my memory.

4. I love facebook. I spend way too much time on there being nosey. But, I have re-connected with some long time friends that I have seen in years. My dear friend, Kelly has been a friend since high school. She is the only one I know that can twist her lips like me. My friend, Cassie I have known since childhood. Her mom was the one that noticed my lazy eye when I was 3 and told my mom about it. Cassie, our moms and I would meet for lunch every summer. We would meet downtown Indy at the Hilton Hotel. While Cassie's mom and my mom caught up, Cassie and I would ride the glass elevators up and down. Occasionaly, we would get off on the top floor and look down. I even recall one time spitting a spit ball off the balcony and watching it land on some guy's head. Not my proudest moment. I am so thankful for these two gals and that we can stay in touch through the amazing technology of the internet.

5. I am thankful for a God who loves me. For a God who desires a relationship with me. For a God who is worthy of my praise even when I am weak. I have been reading through Leviticus for BSF and God has shown me that He is serious about our relationship. He is harsh to the Israelites when they choose to disobey him. But it's because He loves them so much. They mattered to him. I matter to Him.

my 5 on Friday

1. I am thankful for school closings and two hour delays. I like having my kids around (most of the time) and it's nice not to have to be rushed!

2. Eric and I went to a meeting the night on autism. It really opened Eric's eyes to some things. I am thankful that he loves his kids and wants what is best for them.

3. I was able to talk to a dear friend on the phone the other day. We both had school closed and so it was a great opportunity to catch up. She has a daughter with special needs and it's wonderful to have a friend who can relate to all the "stuff" that come with having a kid that are different than others. We talked for an hour and half!!! We are both such the talkers!

4. Andrew is getting so good at navigating on the computer. Iam thankful that he is not watching as many videos these days, but now I can't get him off the computer! :>)

5. We are having friends over on Sunday for the Super Bowl. It will be great to hang out and watch a good game. Now..what to fix to munch on while watching Kurt Warner?

My 5 on Monday

I have somehow fallen off the bandwagon with writing my 5 things I'm thankful for on Fridays. I will try to start fresh this week and do two.

1. We had a great time celebrating Craig and Claire's birthdays on Saturday. I was so delighted to watch Andrew and his cousin Claire interact while playing Wheel of Forutne on the computer. Claire was calling out letters and Andrew turned to her and said, "Claire, F" He acknowledged her. Claire was so excited that Andrew didn't even hit her!

2. I am so proud of Jarod. He won first place at his Pinewood Derby for cub scouts on Friday. He even won grand champion for the whole pack. Way to go, Jarod! We are trying to teach him how to be a good sport in winning and losing. I am proud of Eric too. He was in charge of the night. He did a great job in calling out the winners, getting everything set up and making the evening so much fun for the cub scouts and their families.

3. I am so thankful that I could spend the afternoon with my mom on Friday. We had a belated celebratiion of her birthday by going to Casa's for lunch and then shopping. My dad took Andrew to Pizza Hut by himself. I think that was the first time my dad has done that. Hey had fun!

4. I sang on our praise team at church for the first time in a lonnngggg time. it was wonderful to worship God in that way and help the congregation worship Him too. I am thankful for my friend, Tammy who kept things in SS under control until I got there.

5. I am so thankful to God for being a part of every little detail in my life!

25 things about me

I was tagged to do this on facebook and thought it would be fun to post this here too.

1. I have had glasses since I was three years old. I even had bifocals for a while. I then finally got contacts in 7th grade. But now, I am back to wearing glasses againl. I'm just old. Besides, my 4 1/2 year old gets upset when I don't have my glasses on.
2. My husband proposed to me before a production of Crazy for You at Rose Hullman. He and his quartet sang "For the Longest Time" while I was sitting on stage next to a table with a rose on it. After the song, Eric got down on one knee and proposed. We have it on tape!
3. If I could move my entire family, friends and their families, my church and my house, I would move to Roanoke, VA. Eric and i lived there for a year after we were married. I loved the southern hospitality and the beautiful mountains. But alas, no one is willing to move.
4. Autism is now a word that is part of our family. Andrew was diagnosed in Jan. of 2008. I now know why God allowed me to work in special education for 3 years and not a get a classroom teaching job. it was to be ready for our child.
5. I hate hospitals. I don't like the smell. I don't like being around sick people. But, God's working on me. I've visited a couple of people now...I went with a friend.
6. I was a stand- up comic once. I bombed. I decided that comedy was not my gig.
7. I have a goal to paint my front room by March 9. Haven't even taken the Christmas tree down yet. We'll see if I make.
8. I have a passion for MOPS and reaching out to moms.
9. I took piano lessons for 8 years, but I can't even play Happy birthday. How sad is that! My piano teacher's name was Rowena and she had blue hair. the best part of lessons was playing duets with my cousins. We would just giggle and get in trouble.
10. I am loving Bible Study Fellowship this year. I love learning about Moses and the Tabernacle.
11. My favorite tv show ever is Little House on the Prairie. I liked it when Pa cried. My neighbor and I used to play Little House. She would be Mary and I was Laura. One time, she spent the night and we wore shower caps to bed and called my dad "Pa."
12. I've always wanted to be the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dreamcoat. Don't think it will ever happen, but a girl can dream, right!
13. I made my acting debut in college. Never thought I would get the acting bug, but it was a great release for me and got me to step out of my comfort zone.
14. I love the movie, Cars. I will watch it by myself without kids.
15. Most Monday mornings I hang out with my best friend, Jen. We drink coffee and talk, talk, talk and talk. Did I mention that we talk? We also laugh a lot!
16. I don't like to grocery shop. My husband goes on Saturdays with the list and comes home with everything. Shoe shopping is a different story!
17. I love Celtic Women!!! I got in a zone when they are on PBS. It's mesmerizing. I have the vidoes, but when they are PBS, I can't turn the channel. I think they are coming to the Fort this summer. I want to go!
18. I've lived in Fort Wayne long enough now, that I call it "the Fort".
19. I don't like to bake. It's messy. Too many steps. I have to then clean up the mess. I'm a terrible mom because my kids don't get cookies and milk after school. That's another reason I go to Jen's- to get some yummy baked goods. My mom would actually have cookies and milk waiting for my brother and I after school. She is such the Martha Stewart.
20. It is Jan. 26 and my Christmas tree is still up. I feel like I am in the episode of Everybody Loves Raymond where they left the suitcase on the stairs. Nobody would talk about it, but Debra and Ray thought the other should take it upstairs. That's why my tree is not down. I think Eric should take it down and he probably thinks I should. So, it's a silent battle of the wills.
21. I like to do laundry. There's a sense of accomplishment when the clothes smell good and are folded in the baskets. Now, just to get them to the drawers...
22. I want a new mini van. Yes, I am one of those crazy moms who actually really likes them! There's a chance we could get one this summer. I don't need anything real fancy, just one with automatic windows. Our van now has the crank windows. It's really frustrating at the drivethrough window and I have bend down and use muscle to open my window. Then if it's cold or raining, I have to do several times before I leave the fast food place. I know...I'm lazy.
23. I don't like to wear lipstick. It feels gloppy and it comes off so quickly. What's the point? I do love a great chapstick though!
24. I have never been to Disney World. It's okay, though. I will enjoy it someday with my family. We did go to Florida when I was in high school. My brother and I convinced our parents to get a suite at the hotel. That was awesome, especially since we normally went to State parks and had just one room. I have fond memories of the State Parks. We got lost on a dry creek bed once at Clifty Falls. We couldn't find our trail. We were walking forever. We even past a "real" hiker with a walking stick, backpack and a water bottle. I just had on my keds sneakers! We ended up walking from one end of the park to the other. When we finally found our way out, we made our dad go back to get our van. Ha ha.
25. My favorite type of food is Mexican. Love going to Banditos! But I also love a really good steak with sauted mushrooms and onions.

I've been tagged

My friend, Rachel tagged me to take a side trip from my usual postings. So here goes.. The rules are to go to the place on your computer where you keep your pictures, choose the 4th folder, choose the 4th picture in that folder, explain the picture, then tag 4 other people to do the same.

This picture was taken in Feb. 2008. I have my pics organized by months, which are alphabetical. Anyway, the is a picture of the train track that Jarod and Eric put together one day. I think Jarod wanted a picture because I'm sure Andrew was on his way to knocking it down.

So, it's not a great picture, but it does give a small glimpse into our life with a perfectionist 8year old and a little brother who likes to knock things down.

My five on a snowy Friday

1. I am so thankful that both the boys have had great checkups with the eye doctor. Jarod won't have to go back for a whole year. Andrew doesn't have to go back until July and then he might be able to get rid of his bifocals. It seems like for the last 6 years we have been going to the eye doctor every other month. It's good to have a doctor that we can trust, but it's also good to not have to see him so regularly!

2. I enjoyed our snow day this week. The boys and I went to lunch and then ran some errands. I'm not sure why the schools were closed, but I'm thankful that i got a day to play with my boys.

3. Unfortunately, Eric came down with strep again on the snow day. So, he was home sick. I'm thankful that he is better today and went back to work.

4. My mom's birthday was Wed. I won't mention her age because she would let me have it! I am thankful for her life and others that have been impacted by her friendship. She is amazing with the elderly. She knows several of the residents that live in the unit of the nursing home with my Grandma. My mom faithfully checks on them as well. I am inspired by that!

5. I am thankful for the burden lifted off my shoulders. I have decided not to send out Christmas cards/letter/picture this year. With all of us being sick at some point throughout the month of December and the changes that came with the power outages, I have lost my spark to get them done. I think I will post my letter here this week and send it over e-mail. Hopefully, that isn't lame. On the bright side, I have cards waiting for me next year!

Christmas pics

Here are some pictures of our Christmas as a family. We actually celebrated on Christmas Eve morning. It was very fun. There was no rush to get to the family gathering and we were then able to stay home and enjoy our gifts together. Our family gift...the Wii! Never thought I would be excited over a video game, but I love it!

Jarod and his build your own light saber. I think he can make over 1,000 different light sabers with this kit. Eric got him a special box to put all the pieces in.

Jarod is holding Andrew's present while Andrew unwraps. Andrew was into unwrapping his gifts this year. It's fun to see him interacting with us this year at Christmas!

Eric wasn't really surprised. He went out and bought what he needed and I wrapped it. Love the staged surprised look, th0ugh!

Present time, present time, open your presents, see what's inside!

My 5 for Friday

Happy New Year!
1. I am thankful that I am finally feeling better! After strep throat, the flu, and now a nasty cold, I'm on the mend. I am praying that no one else in the family gets sick especially since school starts up again on Monday.

2. I am thankful for wonderful times with family over the holidays. We spent Christmas day with Eric's family. That is always a fun time. Then we spent the next two days with my family. We took our Wii down and it was just hilarious to watch my dad! He is such a kid at heart, even in his late 60's.

3. I am thankful for 12 years of marriage to an amazing husband. We had our anniversary on Dec. 28, but didn't celebrate it because I was sick. So, we'll catch up on that this month. We were blessed with a couple of gift cards to restaurants. Can't wait.

4. I am thankful that I have been able to reconnect with some old friends through facebook. it's been fun to see them with their families and how God is using them. (When I first signed up for facebook, I didn't see the point. I couldn't see why people would be interested in this new 'thing" and what was I supposed to do with it. Well, now I get it. )

5. I'm thankful for a new year. God worked in my life in 2008, but I'm excited to see where He takes me in 2009.