#1 - The gift of a handy dandy community - Thanks Exodus Community. It's awesome to see your work, and I have a lot of faith in you. A whole room full of groceries needs unloaded and sorted at a local food pantry? My prediction, you'll sort "literally" one ton in just under an hour. Might put some away to.
#2 - The gift of a call from creepy ole New Mexico - Because she's scared of driving through the setting of Breaking Bad alone, little sis called me on the phone today to chat. Okay, she didn't call because she was scared, maybe just because she loves me. But it was good to catch up on life, love, houses and babies. Oh, and sis, she the above video per your request!
#3 - The gift of Sunday nights - It's my favorite night of the week, thanks to mom and dad setting the tradition early - we're always at home as family on the Sabbath. Whether it's pizza or popcorn, Newsies or Psych, I love snuggling, goofing, eating, and relaxing! And if you are not watching Psych, and laughing your night away, shame on you!
Yea, so May is a busy time for busy teachers, especially those of us who decide to pick up the coaching of middle school tennis. But hey, no excuses, God still does good things when we don't write blogs. So how 'bout some catching up...
Husband's
#1 - The gift of potty training success - Our number 1 post in terms of viewer feedback was our adventure with Big Son and pottying. Guess what, he's completely in underwear now during the days and actually pooped in the toilet 3 days in a row. It was so cool-cool that we had to call all the grandparents one by one to get congratulations.
#2 -The gift of hot and sexy listening skills - Wifey, I know that we have big decisions to make. Are we going to move? Do we need to move? What about the houses we've looked at? What about you working from home? Will we get to see each other if you do? What if? What's important? I love you for discussing, disagreeing, and pretty much always being right :-)
#3 - The gift of a quick swatter - Yep, got home yesterday to an infestation of ants on the inside of our bedroom window. How was this a gift? I got to feel useful! I swatted and swatted and swatted. Then I sprayed and sprayed and sprayed. Then I caulked and caulked and caulked. Then I swept and swept and swept. Two hours later... no more bugs in our sleeping space! OK, I'm tooting my own horn, but I felt like your big protector, especially considering how you curled into fetal position on the bed at the sight of just one of the little buggies...
Wife's
Potty-training...an elephant?!
So, only read the following if you haven't reached your max of potty-training stories yet. (Sorry, when it's your kid, it's pretty much what your life revolves around at the time.)
While I was getting ready for work one morning, Biggie was reading one of his favorite books, "Colorado Adventures." This was a Christmas gift made by a pair of his relatives, that happen to be Colorado residents, and shall remain nameless:) Anywho, Biggie is reading away and chatting away, and then starts thinking out loud as he reaches a certain page in said book. At this point, he turns to me and says "When I go poopy in the potty, I get the Shaky Shaky Bridge (of Thomas the Train celebrity). So, this elephant will get the Shaky Shaky Bridge, too. He went poopy!" You know your family is truly loved when a picture of a defecating elephant is included in your son's homemade Christmas gift!
To the unnamed authors of "Colorado Adventures," please deliver a brand new Shaky Shaky Bridge to the elephant at the Denver zoo, with our congratulations. We'll pay you back...
So... Any spring critters saying hello at your houses? Any busy news for us to catch up on? Had some big poops lately you want to share with everyone? Any new music to share with us... we're reveling in The Civil Wars right now (see above video). Thanks to all of you that came back and for posting comments!
#1 - The gift of an inquisitive son - At the Passover Meal, in the Jewish tradition, four sons ask four questions. The idea is that a question is always a good thing. I've got a 3-year-old Big Boy, and he's always got a question on his 3-year-old tongue.
"Why?"
But the thing is, Big Boy is attentive as well. I know, a young child not yet given in to the terrors of an attention deficit generation, but he listens carefully to what's going on. Last night, I told him the story of Jesus' death. Wanting him to understand the significance of Easter, I left the story with Jesus death. God is dead. For our sins, not because of anything He did.
I figured that Biggie knew the story well enough that he would know there was more. In fact, last night he said, "Daddy, that's not the end. Finish the story." But I left it there. God is dead. For today. We'll finish the story tomorrow.
Of course, I'm planning on celebrating God very much alive on Sunday. I didn't know how much Big Boy would buy in. So today we're listening to Audio Adrenaline's song "Secret" which has the line:
"There is a God and he's alive and keeps me well."
Biggie stops me immediately and says, matter-of-factly, "Daddy, God is dead. Why did they say God is alive?"
Uh-oh. We can't have this I thought. We can't have this taking root at all. So I called Big Boy over to my side, leaned down, and broke the secret to him. Remember the story last night, about Jesus in the tomb, sealed inside by a big rock? Remember how he died for all of our sins? I have a secret for you. And I whispered into his ear...
#1 - The gift of the potty war - Oh, yes, I've been chosen as a Daddy warrior in the potty war. We've bunkered in (only undies during daytime hours) and we've now cleaned up poopies in the big boy pants. BUT... two successes today. Two! Now I know why other parents have gotten so excited about this.
#2 - The gift of the local arts community (and my wife) - Last night, Andrew Kreider hosted a poetry open mic at the Electric Brew, the local "we-grind-our-own-coffee" place. I punked out, and didn't have enough courage to read (and have stewed about it ever since). But it was still cool-cool-cool. Special thanks to you my Bride, for getting Team Two Boys to bed alone so I could get my inner artist on.
#3 - The gift of being heard - After our refreshing talk in the shower yesterday morning, my Dear, you made sure that I knew that you had heard me. Thank you, thank you, thank you. When you respond to my spoken needs, love is new again!
In honor of the poetry reading last night, I posted a funny poem from one of my favorite poets at the top today. Have fun tonight! It's Sunday!
#1 - The gift of creative sleeping strategies - Last night (as usual) Little Baby Boy couldn't sleep. But I was prepared. I DVR'd my beloved Chicago Fire playing, and held him at 2:30, 3:30 and 5:00 while I watched bits of the game. When he slept, the game paused. Got through 30 minutes last night, of the game and of snuggle time!
#2 - The gift of silent classes - Right now, my 8th grade students are engaged in devotional activities. Some are praying, some are journaling, some are drawing pictures, some are reading Greg Boyd books. And it is silent. Praise God!
#3 - The gift of the old doorknobs - When Big Son gets up, he knows how to open his door. But it takes him awhile, because of our 1914 loose doorknobs. But I can always hear him rattling at the door. The sound brings such a smile to may face, because I usually don't get to hug him before I take off for work. Today, I got a hug and his smiling face in the window as I left.
#4 - The gift of a prayer - I'm not good with all traditions, but I love praying with you, my Dear Wife, every morning before we part. This morning, you were chilling with Young Son in bed, and you didn't even know that as I put my hand on your shoulder, I was lifting your day up. Hope it's a good one!
What sound gets you excited? What books would you want all students to read? What helps get you through sleepless nights?
1. "So many times as artists we get, like, a block, right there in our minds. And it's like, move it out of the way! Sufjan Stevens recorded Michigan with 2 '57' microphones!" - Shara Worden of My Brightest Diamond
2. "It's probably unrealistic, but we hope people are worshiping in, like, every moment..." - Matisyahu
3. "The glory of God is man fully alive." - St. Irenaeus, quoted by Gregory Wolfe
5. "Discernment is more than cuss words and violence, there is a lot of nuance... that's best done in community." - Brett McCracken, author of Hipster Christianity
6. "Our identity gets wrapped up in consumption, not in Christ." - Brett McCracken
7. "We did the math and this is the biggest show we've ever headlined." - The Civil Wars, see video above.
8. "That was the best show I've ever been to." - Bryan Chris referring to the The Civil Wars
9. "Lament danced and swayed beneath the watchful eyes of the crews." - Luke Powery on the origin of the Negro spirituals
10. "Not every song has a happy ending." - Just Pete of The Bored-Again Christian referring to how he would reform Christian music.
11. "Most listeners aren't interested in being discerning listeners. They want me to tell them 'Is Animal Collective going to sound good when I'm stoned at 2 AM?' - 'Yes.'" - Jessica Hopper, music critic in Chicago Tribune and Chicago Reader
12. "A live show is made better by the audience. A good audience makes a one-time experience, it makes the artist better. So let's put away our smart phones, just for the show. Then you can take them out and have a twit-gasm." - Ken Hefner, head of Calvin College Student Activities Office
13. "It's a choose your own adventure. Should I play a new Fiction Family song or marry the dragon?" - Jon Foreman of Switchfoot, Fiction Family and solo fame
14. "What I'm most proud of is that I was able to avoid any gender-specific pronouns!" - Vienna Tang
15. "What makes good art? It tells the truth and it is well-crafted. That is art." - Gregory Wolfe
Good times, good thoughts, good food, good music = fun weekend.
Heard any good quotes lately? Got any favorites stored away? Ever try to write a review of an event only using quotes?
This month is National Poetry Month. I'm giving myself a challenge. As a a lover of poetry, I figure it's right for me to celebrate the month. So each week, I'm going to try to finish and review a book of poetry. So, here's the first.
The Great Wheel, by Paul Mariani
Simply and casually, we live our lives. Moments slip by without the slightest of thought. But at some point, we cannot escape the power of our memories. And in that reflection, the simplest of our memories, the casual moments of friendship and love often glow with the brightest fondness.
Paul Mariani's The Great Wheel feels like a collection based on a season of reflection. Indeed, Mariani seems to nod to this slowed down time, this taking stock of life and relationships in the title poem:
"For all our feigned bravado, we could feel the evening over us, even as we stared down upon the blur of leaves, our wives, our distant children, on all we would return to..."
In Mariani's book, as the evening of reflection comes over him, we are introduced to a wide range of his life. From secretly admired college professors, to a sister trying to convince her brother to move from New England's winters to the beauty of California, to a faithful dog dying on a hot June afternoon. In these scenes, it is Mariani's simplicity that serves the poetry best, that brings an emotional punch.
As in any collection, there are several poems that stand out. "Quid Pro Quo," a jumbled mess of a poem, cacophonous and humming with song at the same time, takes on a God who allows a miscarriage but then gives the gift of a son. The brilliant moment at the end, "How does one bargain / with a God like this..." Simple, but full of life's mystery.
In "Falling Asleep," the narrator lays down with his son during a family get together, captures what it is like to be both father and son. A time of excitement, moments you don't want to miss, the brevity of the whole experience. "He will have to march off..." Mariani notes, "but here, here / in this room, the shadows wheeling / slowly about him, his father is still here..."
Like all good poetry, Mariani slows us down to examine life. Each son, sister, professor, friend, wife, pet is found to have a brilliance, a meaning, a value beyond words. In his simplest moments, Mariani brings us into that awe.
I connect with this poetry because it is about relationships. This Christmas I wrote a poetry book for my family, and Mariani's book reminds me of that. I have a sister out in Colorado, who would probably want to convince me to move out there. I have a son who wants to stay up "with the Big Ones" when the family is over, who I have to lay with to get him asleep. I have friends who have experienced the detrimental effects of a miscarriage, but have now been blessed with a son. These poems stand out to me because of their truth.
And in the end, the wheel of life, the great wheel that brings us relationships, sons, sisters, moms, dads, babies... the same wheel that takes these things away, is "a wheel revolving uniformly - by the Love that moves the sun and the other stars."
In the end, I trust that Love. I thank that Love for all the gifts that it brings!
#1 - The gift of making our own trails - Team Two Boys and I went for a hike today, backpacked with snacks and water, bundled in IU hats and IU gloves. With all the leaves down from last fall, and no new growth yet, the woods were open to our imagination. We crawled under trees, bonked our heads on trunks, picked up "maps" (that were actually just rotting pieces of wood), and talked.
#2 - The gift of an after-hike prayer - "Dear God, and thank You for that the deers we saw had a safe hike through the woods. Thank You for that. And for that deer that we saw, that were jumpin'. God, thank You for that. And that deers that ran across the path, thank You for that mommy and that daddy deers. And for that little deers, brother and sister deers, and for that baby deer. Thank You for that. And for that I got to eat with my daddy, thank You for that. Amen."
#3 - The gift of a forced snuggle - Big Son made beds in the living room for every one tonight. Mine was right by you, my Dear. I missed snuggling after coming in late last night from watching the championship game. I'm glad our son forced it on us this evening!
Hooray for hikes! Today I posted the song that Big Son and I kept singing to each other while we skipped over branches. What do you sing or hum on your hikes and walks?
This week began Spring Break for me. So, as the teacher that I am, I decided to use the week off to teach Biggie Son a lesson: to go to the bathroom.
That's right, Big Boy (?) is three years old and has no idea how or when he needs to use the toilet, nor does he have the desire to do it. So, that's the idea for Spring Break.
Mission: Go to the bathroom.
What follows is a log of our experiences throughout the week.
Friday Night, 20:00 hours. - As we prepare for bed, we inform Son #1 that tomorrow will be "Big Boy Day." (Tactic #1) It is officially the last day for diapers and the first day of big boy pants all the time during the day! Hooray!
Saturday Morning, 08:00 hours. - Biggie wakes up and immediately begins to cry as we switch him into big boy pants. He's comforted by the fact that Thomas the Train is on his undies. This is the one time that I am thankful for the senseless marketing of cartoon characters on kid's products.
Saturday Morning, 10:00 hours. - We're through breakfast and all is good. The first attempt at this is to leave control in his hands. As his "Big Boy Day" (Tactic #1) we've told him that he gets extra responsibilities too, such as picking out his clothes. He picks blue and orange sweat pants, a blue and green baseball shirt, with his Maurice Creek Indiana basketball jersey over the top. Looking good!
Saturday Morning, 11:30 hours - Sonny Boy wants to rake in the yard with Daddio. When asked if he has to go to the bathroom (as he hadn't yet this morning) he responds that, "I do not have to, but I will tell you." Shakingly reassured, Daddy and Son tromp into the damp backyard to rake leaves and pick up "spiky balls" from our blessed Sweetgum tree.
Saturday Morning, 11:50 hours - As we transition to the front yard, Daddy asks if we need to potty. "No." "Did you already potty?" "Yes." Bummer. One pair of big boy pants down, one pairs of pants down. Not even through the morning yet.
Saturday Morning, 11:55 hours - Daddy decides on a different tactic (Tactic #2). No changing of the dirty pants. Big Son continues to rake and pick up trash all around the neighborhood, secretly covered in his own pee.
Saturday Afternoon, 12:30 hours - Tactic #3, you have to wash your own dirty pants. Son gets up at bathroom sink and singingly, gleefully, washes his underwear and pants. So, that wasn't so convincing of a punishment.
Saturday Afternoon, 12:35 hours - Now, we're on to something new, wearing nothing at all. That's right, Biggie Boy is completely naked running around the house. We're closing the windows as he shoots naked baskets, holding our breath as he climbs naked onto the couch, laughing as he dances in the kitchen with nothing but a birthday suit. He thinks he's funny too, great... Perhaps he'll realize now when he starts to go (Tactic #4). Oh, and we added a new reward, Push-Up Pops! (Tactic #5)
Saturday Afternoon, 13:15 hours - Sitting at lunch, Big Son suddenly says, "Oh, no! I'm wet," and takes another bite of food. Yes, seated naked in his booster seat, the boy has peed on the seat, the chair, and oh wait yes, the carpet. Oh, and more under the carpet? Thank you, thank you, thank you. Tactic Fail.
Saturday Afternoon, 13:30 hours - With pee all over himself from two separate episodes, a shower is now in order. Except that Biggie Sons is crying hysterically about taking a shower (not a normal reaction). "Big Boy Day" is starting to break down...
Saturday Afternoon, 14:00 hours - Nap time. Diaper is on. We're safe for a bit...
Saturday Afternoon, 16:30 hours - Up from sleepy time, little sleepy head is allowed to keep the pull-up on a bit longer. It's pretty wet, but...
Saturday Afternoon, 17:00 hours - Back in undies, this time just lots of little trains. Tactic #6 is to find a Youtube video about potty training. Big guy loves him some Youtube. But this and this (?) didn't do it...
Saturday Afternoon, 17:10 hours - Grandma and Grandpa arrive, and are super-excited to hear about Big Boy Day. They promise treats, hugs, and kisses if he can go in the potty (Tactic #7).
Saturday Evening, 19:30 hours - Still no pee from after nap. Daddy's had enough of asking, it's time to try. Daddy tells Big Son to go to the bathroom (Tactic #8). Crying, kicking, falling down on the ground. Fail.
- Daddy coaxes Big Guy to the bathroom by promising the Butler Robot video (Tactic #9). Big Son sits on the potty while the video goes, and then is immediately done. No potty. Fail.
- Daddy still not giving up, sings a song (Tactic #10) to the Little Man, his favorite - "Found" by The O.C. Supertones - while convincing him to sit on his potty. The "Big Boy" sits laughing the whole time on his potty, then starts crying when the song is done because he doesn't want to potty.
Saturday Evening, 20:00 hours - Daddy gives up.
Saturday Evening, 20:20 hours - Big Boy (Baby?) pees in his underwear again, and onto the living room floor. The mess is cleaned up. Bedtime pull-ups are put on. Daddy is watching the Butler-VCU game trying to ignore everything. Try again tomorrow? We'll see...
Why is this a gift? Because someday, and that day is not today, we'll pull up this memory and laugh. Because someday, he'll go to the bathroom the right way, someday he won't wear diapers and someday he'll really have his "Big Boy Day." And that will be fun!
Any other tactics we haven't tried? Any advice for us floundering parents? We'll take whatever anybody's got (and then will post how wily Son #1 got around that too :-)
It's not often that I happen across short quotes that I like. I'm drawn in the fullness of words, the totality feeling of a poem, the logic of an essay, the circling story of a novel. Wendell Berry provides all of these things. From his poems, to his essays, to his biographies and more, he's a talented writer of many things that I feel...
But today, a simple quote from a conversation he had with four visitors to his home was a gift:
“If it’s baby versus internet, you’re never gonna smile that way over the internet.”
Tonight, I think my computer will sit unattended while I giggle, tickle, and enjoy Team Two Boys.
#1 - The gift of good busy - Over the past two weeks we've had the NCAA tourney, a weekend getaway, our best friends having a new baby (handsome little A.J.), traveling to see my bro and sis-in-law. Now it is time for some "good lazy."
#2 - The gift of a challenge - I read a book a couple weekends ago, one I didn't completely agree with (Love Wins by Rob Bell). But the beauty is how thought explodes when it is challenged. Deep thoughts, hard thoughts, disturbing thoughts, enlightening thoughts - but all thoughts that lead to a beautiful God.
#3 - The gift of new music - In a week, I'm headed to Calvin College's Festival of Faith and Music. There are 6 concerts over three days, and only one by a band/performer I had on my iTunes. So I've been listening to a lot of the others. The Civil Wars - awesome. Matisyahu - instant Big Son favorite (plus his real name is Matthew Miller, cool name!)
#4 - The gift of our brown blankie - It's soft, it's cozy, it's filled with little fluffy feathers. I laid under it today with Little Boy, Big Boy, and as soon as I move this laptop aside, I'll be sliding underneath it with my hot Wifey to watch "The Biggest Loser." Okay, so I'll probably be falling asleep while she watches the loser, but whatever...
What's your favorite household comfort? What new music have you found this month?
#1 - The gifts of luxury B & B's - Dearest Wife, our trip to G. Rap. was made even better by the luxurious accommodations of Prairieside Suites. Hot tubs, fireplaces, omelets and waffles... what a great choice for reading, relaxing, and some lovin'.
#2 - The gift of undivided attention - As a middle school teacher, I am privileged to witness to height of divided attention. But the past weekend, I was actually privileged to give my Lovely Bride my undivided attention. I learned you like asparagus risotto, heated toilet seats, and don't like tough questions (or processing them out loud). I love learning you.
On the same note, Biggie Son must have missed my undivided attention this weekend. Picking him up from Great-Grandma's, he said we should leave Little Bro there and go do something together, like play basketball. I love him too!
#3 - The gift of a lucky pick - We all make NCAA picks every year. Even little 9-month old (although he hasn't picked yet, don't tell him any of the results :) Son #1 picked Northern Colorado, a 15 seed, to make the final. So that's out. But his other pick, the Rams of VCU, well, they're keeping the dream alive. And it's a blast to watch with home. Although Sunday, when the Rams defeated the Grand Poopah's favorite (Purdue), Big Son felt bad. "I hope Poopah is not sad when the Rams win," he lamented.
#4 - The gift of a sore neck - In my attempt to answer my son's call for undivided attention, Big Son and I took a long walk today. I mean, I took a long walk and he took a long ride. Less than a block from the house, even though he was in puddle jumping boots, Big Boy wanted to ride on my shoulders. A mile and half later, I can't lean my head back.
#5 - The gift of Y-O-U! - This one's for you, Dearest. The greatest day of my life was the day we married. The next best one will always be tomorrow. I can't wait to face everything with you.
#1 - The gift of fear and trust - On a walk with the fam, Big Sonny ran ahead of us around the campus sidewalks. Suddenly, the tornado alarm wailed from atop the campus building right next to where he was. Petrified, mouth open, eyes wide, too stunned and scared for tears, he sprinted (faster than I've ever seen)... right into his daddy's arms.
He didn't cry, just buried his head in mine. I didn't tell him anything except that he was okay. In his moment of fear, it was a great moment of who he trusts.
(Note: He would have run to mom too! She was just holding the Little Boy!)
#2 - The gift of anticipation - Sometimes the anticipation is better than the payoff. Waiting for the basketball season is often better than the season itself, waiting for the games to start in this tournament week is often the most exciting part. With the game's starting tomorrow, "I'm excited and nervous, can't sleep in my bed." (from "Bally's Dream" by Kyle Whelliston)
#3 - The gift of anticipation fulfilled - I've been looking forward to the "Reading Weekend" for a month or more. Tomorrow it arrives. G. Rap - here we come! (Time alone with you Wifey Dear, is the best!)
#1 - The gift of a morning routine - Alarm at 5:15, snooze so I can wrap my warm arms around Lovely Wife, snug around your side and knees behind your knees (that's the best part of the routine ;). Into the living room, put daily Scripture up for Exodus Community, get distracted by basketball stuff, read daily Scripture from Exodus Community, get distracted by other blogs, type prayers to God, doze off for awhile, get into shower, pray with my Bride, off to work. It's a secure (and sometimes scattered) way to start a day.
#2 - The gift of breaks in a morning routine - This morning, Son #2 didn't want to sleep alone anymore at 5:30. He just wanted to snuggle. Devotions with nine month old's resting on your chest... priceless.
#3 - The gift of morning coffee - Um, any doubt that this would make the list. I know, Brother and Father, that you haven't converted yet, but for me it's not taste or caffeine or whatever, it's tradition. The smell of the coffee, the way it feels warm in my hand, the student crafted mugs I've been given, the break that it gives me from thinking or talking when I take a drink... (contented sigh).
What about the all of you? Morning is the best time, right? Do you have morning routines? Do you drink coffee? What's your favorite type? (Equal Exchange - Hazelnut Cream)
#1 - The gift of coming home - Today was a super stressful day at work. Lot's of middle schoolers, lot's of papers to grade, and a meeting after school. Coming home to you, Wife, and to the children... it's a relief and it's energizing at the same time.
#2 - The gift of simple tours of town - Cruisin' around town, holding your hand, grabbin' some Cinnamon and Vanilla Latte's, reading "Bob the Builder" in the front window of the bookstore, it's really a great relaxer after the hard day.
Lot's and lot's of fun this weekend, as well of lot's and lot's of busyness. Truth is, I'm exhausted and feel like I haven't had a weekend, but then I look at all the fun things that did happen this week and...
#1 - The gift of kissing moobies - Little Son has itsy-bitsy man boobies right now, and they are uber-ticklish. Any time I change his clothes, I love to hear his giggles.
#2 - The gift of new food combinations - Big Son got spoiled by Grandpa this weekend (taken for a swim, changing a tire, putting the "naughty" tire in "time out," getting donuts). Maybe the best was a bag of Peanut Butter M&M's. But Son #1 took it one step further, at lunch he dipped the M&M's into the cheese sauce. Nice!
#3 - The gift of new shoes and socks - I'm super hard on my shoes. My work shoes have gone through snow piles, tennis practice, soccer at recess, standing all day long, and more. So, they have no sole. Plus, I wear holes in all my socks. New shoes feel so comfy, like a pillow. Thanks for forcing it on me, Wife!
#4 - The gift of made up songs - Son #1 was in a silly mood this morning when he heard me singing to Little Bro while changing a stanky dipes. I was singing "Beautiful One" which has the line "Beautiful One, I love You" in it. As we jumped into the van to run an errand, Big Son looked at the Blueberry NutriGrain bar in his hand and sang, "Breakfast bar, I want you."
#5 - The gift of grandpa - My Darling said it best yesterday, but it is awesome to spend time with Grandpa (the Grand Poopa!) Talking basketball, being equally excited and then upset about the Princeton-Harvard game, and remembering all the fun you've had with us grand kids was great!
#6 - The gift of honesty - This weekend, my Lovely Bride, I've had several great conversations with you. Whether over the weekends plans, our relationship, or looking at new houses, I value the fact that I can speak my mind to you. I love you!
#1 The gift of conversation - I'm convinced that Poopa has never met someone he couldn't talk to. When he engages you, you can't help to feel his compassion, sincerity, and affection. He's always ready to discover what drives you.
#2 The gift of play - Poopa is not your typical grandfather (or great grandfather for that matter). No walkers or Sunday drives for this guy! From his massive collection of miniature trucks to his Xbox 360, he just loves to play. And he always includes anyone in close proximity. It's impossible to escape his antics.
#3 The gift of legacy - Each person in one's life leaves a unique footprint. Poopa's footprint will include the living out of a powerful love, sacrificial determination, and monumental laughter.
With the cleanup of Ash Wednesday service going on about our house tonight, just onesies from each of us tonight!
Wife's
#1 The gift of ash - I love Ash Wednesday! Good friends, good food, good conversation, and celebrating what was the upcoming death of our Lord and Savior. Does it get any better than double chocolate brownies and cinnamon pecan pie shared with our stories?
Husband's
#1 - The gift of hot decaffeinated drinks - I love a warm beverage in my often colds hands, but at 8:00 at night, I don't want it to keep me up all night. Little Son does enough of that. But oh decaf goodness! You warm my heart enough to let me comfortably drift into sleep.
#1 The gift of a young mind - I have to say, I was a bit amazed as the family was singing along to Denison Witmer in the car this evening and when Hubs hit the mute button, Son #1 didn't skip a beat. Oh to still have a sponge for brain...
#2 The gift of new life - Being able to celebrate a few recent births this weekend reminds us all of the blessing of new life and with it the associated sacrifices of parenthood. To all of you with new babies out there, prayers of good sleep to you. It's quality, not quantity :)
#3 The gift of Fat Tuesday - How is it that I forget about Fat Tuesday every year? And I totally saw a huge display of delicious looking pastries specifically on sale for Fat Tuesday and still didn't put two and two together. Maybe this will serve as my reminder for next year. Moving right along...Ash Wednesday here we come. May we all experience God is a new way throughout Lent. I'm just glad that I don't have to experience Him without chocolate!
Husband's
#1 - The gift of giving foot rubs - What? Well, every time you sneakily slip a stinky unslippered foot in front of my tired and droopy eyes I get to remember how much I love you ;)
#2 - The gift of "B Dubs" - Wife, you roll these pretty blues every time I mention dinner at my beloved (but overpriced) fancy chicken nugget restaurant. But tonight, Fat Tuesday was alive and well!
#3 - The (preemptive) gift of sleep - Maybe tonight Team Two Boys will sleep. Maybe there will be no nightmares, no calling for daddy, no crying for milk, nothing but sleep. Maybe... [UPDATE: This actually happened! Everybody slept!]
How did you get your "carnival" on this Fat Tuesday? Anything you are craving like I'm craving for the pillow?
#1 - The gift of affirmation - I'm a sucker for a kind word. A simple "thanks for taking the lead" this morning was like water in the desert.
#2 - The gift of passion - I love March, because it's a month of passion. You see it in March Madness, you see it in people sacrificing chocolate and coffee for Lent, and you see it in people desperately yearning for spring. Here's to buzzer beaters, giving up the good, and the end of snow!
#3 - The gift of the simple - My son sleeping on my chest, a walk around the neighborhood, a best friend to watch basketball with, a wife to cuddle with, a bed that is soft and surrounding. Yes and yes.
What simple things were good to you today? How have you shown your passions this week? What kind words have been spoken to you? (If there haven't been any, know that you're special to me ;-)
The gift of family traditions. You don't always think about how important routines and traditions are until you are older, but for Wife and I, we are trying hard to make special moments that "Team Two Boys" will remember for their lives.
Growing up, my family tradition was Sunday night pizza and a movie. Maybe my Dearest and I will take on that tradition as the bambinos get older. But for now, our sacred (and I mean that in the whole sense of the word) tradition is "Cakey Saturdays!"
What are your family traditions? What do you remember from growing up? These gifts, these routines, are such a fun thing do, and they make a lasting difference. Trust me, I saw "Hook" on a family movie night and I'll never be the same!
Food Cakey Type: Regular Coffee Type: Refinery Cafe's Organic Peru Toppings: Peanut butter and syrup Sides: Apricots and zwieback
Playlist "Adelaide" by Anberlin "Friday Night" by House of Heroes "Hey Ya" by Outcast "Choose the One Who Love You More" by Copeland "Something Isn't Right Here" by The Juliana Theory "I Feel It All" by Feist "Get Better" by Mates of State "The Luckiest" by Ben Folds "Lung Speed, Lung Sped" by Brooke Waggoner
What's your favorite thing we did this week? Husband - "Either watching you (Wife) giddy about your Nook or watching Son #1 dance last night (at the Minor Profits concert)." Wife - "I forgot I got the Nook this week. That's my favorite." Big Son - "The band with you. I'm going to take Little Bro to a band today!" Little Son - sleepily closes eyes and grabs my chest hair... ah!
What band would you most want to go see in concert? Husband - "I've got three bands I'd like to see that nobody else in the family would enjoy: My Epic, So Long Forgotten, and Dignan. But if I'm taking my lovelies then I'd love to see mewithoutYou again." Wife - "Well, I've enjoyed MuteMath, Andy Davis... I think I'd enjoy Mates of State, but we go to concerts so infrequently that it is hard to say." Big Son - "Umm, I'd see Jude's mom play the drums." "She doesn't play the drums, Son." "Oh! Veggie Tales!" Little Son - rubs his hands in his eyes and looks for Big Bro...
My Closest Friend, sometimes I hurt you. Sometimes I do things without thinking that cause a rift in our relationship. Wouldn't it be great if each week, we could clear the air, reconnect, and ask for forgiveness?
So, I'd like to ask that you forgive me... - for limiting my dishwashing prowess to pans only, I'm sorry that lids always evade my attention. - for letting you fall prey to the new electronic gnostic addiction of ebooks. - for "innocently" brushing up against you each time we see each other, although I'm blaming this on the example set by my dad. - for watching my beloved and inept Hoosiers during your foot rub instead of "The Aviator." - for all of our shows being reruns this week (well, actually this wasn't on me at all, but someone should be asking forgiveness for reruns... we have Hulu now, we don't need to re-air this season's earlier content). - for the sad truth that the kissing monster hasn't properly attacked you yet ;-) - for not-so-subtly suggesting we blow our budget on pizza and breadsticks. - for missing our little parting prayer time this morning before I went to work :-( - for introducing you to snappy little bands like Mates of State and MuteMath, you'll never get them out of your head!
But finally and sincerely, in the words of a classic prayer:
I confess to you, my beloved wife, that I have sinned through my own fault, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done, and in what I have failed to do.
#1 - The gift of lazy middle schoolers - When you started shooting black line threes on offense and not getting back past half court to play defense, my workout intensified. Now I had to not only guard the opposing team all by myself, but I had to make sure you didn't get the ball too! "Sweat dripping all over my chest. I don't (nah) I just press... harder..." Yes, I did just quote some MC Hammer, but don't worry, it's from before you were born.
#2 - The gift of little boys building roads right up to the shower - In the shower, with my mother-in-law close by, Big Son cracked open the bathroom door and hummed his way into the room, diggers and dump trucks in hand. He was building a road, so I could get out of the shower and come play with him.
#3 - The gift of new friends (really little ones!) - Our good friends just had their second boy! Let me tell you, Son #1 and Son #2 are lots of fun. Why just last night I got to quiet a nightmare (about a missing blue-footed booby) and quiet a son (who was missing a booby). Oh the fun times ahead my friends!
#4 - The gift of your technological diligence - Cutest, you have all sorts of good looks. I thought I'd seen them all, but tonight you pulled off "techie cute" as you followed the action of the family dance party through the lens of the video camera. Too cool!
Wife's
#1 - The gift of the sisterhood of motherhood - Too much fun today trading stories of weird pregnancy practices and paranoia with coworkers. Am I really the only one that was afraid that my water might break at any second during the week of my due date? Or do I just plan for every possibility even if it's not much of a probability...hmmmm. And you heard it here first, Prego Depends! The answer to a whole host of pregnancy issues in a neat, comfortable, waterproof package! Apology shout out to our young, male office volunteer, who got a whole lot of TMI throughout that conversation. Hope we didn't scar you irreparably.
#2 - The gift of marital transactions - A good marriage is all about the give and take. Letting the hubs watch IU game instead of forcing him to sit through Grey's Anatomy = lengthy foot rub for me! Yipee! PS. I love you DVR.
#3 - The gift of marrying a great father - So sweet to watch you, Husband, as you actively play with our sons! Whether its piecing together puzzle after puzzle (after puzzle after puzzle) or rockin' out with Son #1 or continually plucking Son #2 out of precarious spots he crawls his way into, your engagement in our family life warms my heart. Can't imagine what they (or I) would do without you!
Hey all, if you're anywhere near Goshen, Indiana, you should go to First Fridays tomorow. Our friend Andrew Hauser is playing with his band, The Minor Profits. They are as rad as cheese-and-mustard sandwiches (or at least that's what Wife says!)
So what's your favorite marital transaction? What was your favorite lunch during elementary school? What other random questions should I ask?
"Love (that is) strong, lasting, is not casually given or received but is forged by keeping one's promise to love - day by day - for a lifetime." - Sandra Fribley from "The Mennonite"
Last night, I rushed home from a coffee shop meeting and arrived just as my dearest wife was cooking up some bacon strips (turkey bacon actually - yea for health!) to throw onto our corn chowder. I quickly changed into some comfortable clothes and returned to help Son #1 into his "big boy seat" and pull Son #2 over to the table in his high chair.
What was about to ensue was a typical household meal.
Son #1 refusing to eat because he's so intent on playing and talking. He would cycle through his lift of excuses: 1. I don't like it ("Bud, it's filled with cheese, corn, bacon and potatoes - what don't you like?!") 2. I'm tired ("Okay, then let's go to bed.") 3. I'm done daddy ("No, umm... there's still a full bowl of soup in front of you.")
Son #2 would eat ravenously, but then cry at the top of his lungs until someone would hold him. He'll run his hands through his hair, rub them in his eyes, strategically placing bits of food in places that are the hardest to clean (behind an eyelid, up his nose, twisted into the hair behind his ear).
But before this routine of craziness began, we prayed:
Come, Lord Jesus Be our guest And let these gifts to us Be blessed
These gifts to us? Which ones? The soup getting cold as Lovely Wife bounces the little one so he'll stop wailing? The continuous insistence of a three-year old on having his own way? The bath that we have to give every night because the boys can't keep their food-lathered hands out of their hair? The punishments threatened, the time-outs given, and lack of time to connect? Which gifts?
These gifts. These common gifts, born out of common prayer, that we forge our love out of. Sitting down at the dining with two healthy and lovable boys is a gift, even if they won't eat for an hour and a half. Making dinner with my Beautiful Bride is a gift, especially when songs are playing in the background, and we get to dance or sing! Maybe we'll steal a kiss!
One of my favorite poems inspires me often, it goes like this:
Make routine a stimulus. Remember it can cease. Forge hosannahs from doubt. Hammer on doors with the heart. All occasions invite God's mercies and all times are his seasons. - From "What My Teachers Taught Me I Try to Teach My Students " byMaura Eichner
The common. The gifts of routine that we so often miss. Day by day we receive these opportunities. I believe we can either let them fade into nothingness, draining us away and lulling us to sleep. Or we can use each day of ordinary history to forge love.
#1 - The gift of March It's the first day of March and you know what that means They'll play and they'll play 'til there's only one team From towns and big cities they all come to dance And at the beginning each team has a chance!
#2 - The gift of apocalyptic theology - Oh Revelation! John, what we would do in coffee shops if we couldn't talk about beasts, the whore of Babylon and the end of the world. Probably just peacefully drink Shamrock Mochas. (But at least we all agree on the ending, we end up in God's arms!)
#3 - The gift of developing an insider vocabulary - Sweetest, our innocent text conversation about sweet onions has me looking forward to our future times of perusal together!
Wife's
#1 - The gift of family dance parties - There are only a few things better than spontaneously breaking it down with my boys. Have to demonstrate their excellent taste in music, play video.
#2 - The gift of aging gracefully - After sitting at the dinner table for an hour and a half, a half finished bowl of soup still lingers at Gid's spot. Thank the Lord that the "threes" don't last forever! Until then, may we all have grace, grace, and more grace.
#3 - The gift of weekly duality - It's Tuesday, so that means it's time for ice cream while watching The Biggest Loser with the hubs! It looks like those contestants are working so hard, maybe I can break a sweat by eating...faster? *Spoon to mouth, back to bowl, repeat*
What inside words do you have with your "Sweetest"? What songs make your family dance?
#1 - The gift of couples singing songs together - Whether it's the Welcome Wagon singing sweetly into each other's eyes across the stage, or the sweet pop sounds of Mates of State, I love the musical pairs. Beautiful Bride, I dream that someday we'll spill sweet creativity into something, so we can be silly in love in front of everybody :-)
#2 - The gift of freakin' sudoku - Speaking of the silly, Wife-o-Mine, I giggled repeatedly as you busted out exclamations of exasperation while playing your first game of Sudoku on our new Nook. Here, I found some free (uber-easy) ones for you to practice.
#3 - The gift of a little smile - Light of My Life, you know I'm dependent on affirmation, and your little smile when I kissed your forehead this morning set all things right in the world. It's just perfect when you flash that "Best Smile" just for me!
Who's your favorite wife-husband creative duo? What would you share with the world if you could?
#1 - The gift of the Tax Man - Thank you husband for allowing us to shell out a little extra dough too keep my sanity intact:)
#2 - The gift of my little one's blue bottom - The possibility of blueberries staining doesn't just exist before they've been consumed.
#3 - The gift of Christmas money in a little boy's hand - I'm not sure if he was more excited about the two books he chose to buy or the ability to make the transaction all by himself. Either way, talk about pure joy!
#4 - The gift of a gift? - Finally got around to hanging our Christmas gift from Ryan and Kristi. Looks much better on the wall of the bedroom than the floor of the dining room. LOVE IT!
Husband's
#1 - The gift of cookies and donuts - When new people join a community, what better way to welcome them than with sugar? And what better way for them to introduce themselves than with sugar? Good to have new faces at church today!
#2 - The gift of basketball - Even though IU was beat down like a pack of Wack-a-moles, I still got to haul the Fisher Price basket upstairs and shoot hoops in the living room (!) with Son #1, while Son #2 crawled around our feet. How sweet.
#3 - The gift of the Tax Man - Nothing means more to me than you, Wife. And when you are provided some peace of mind, so am I. Relax, clear our desk of all the gathered papers, and enjoy the hours you've got to watch Grey's reruns!
#1 - The gift of the kissing monster - An enormous friendly beast who stalks our basement, chasing my screaming sons through flimsy tents, over ottomans, under ping-pong tables and into the corner and tortures them with kisses, everywhere from their forehead to their armpit. Oh he also happens to be me. Thanks son for making me the kissing monster!
#2 - The gift of a 10-second kiss - Dearest Wife, nothing makes me feel more fulfilled than your lips willingly locked onto mine. It makes me want to wash dishes, scrape walls, and change diapers for you.
#3 - The gift of this blog - My lovely Wife, this excites me so much. Committing to our family and especially our marriage in this creative way? Totally rad. I love you!
