MOved...

2010-09-16T20:30:00.001-07:00

This sweet little blog began as a way to write my little thoughts. I never thought someone would read it or care. After a few years of blogging I am in love. I love sharing what I have learned and what I am learning. After many mommy questions, cloth diaper questions and coupon question I decided that I need a new blog. One with organized thought and one that could help out my family and friends. With that being sad I give you...

http://learningtobeblog.blogspot.com/

I hope you will join me there. Please click the follow me button and let me know that you have visited my blog. I cant wait to see what others think thru comments. Blog, you have been a blessing and I am sad to say goodbye but excited for blog 2.0

BYE BYE FRIENDS

2010-08-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Note before you continue: You may or may not know that Josh and I have been together since we were 16.

Tonight we were cleaning out the office closet. I came across a few boxes that had our note, pictures, emails all that jazz from the start of our friendship until now. It was crazy going thru that stuff. One thing that was funny was seeing a) how the thing you use to adore about your spouse is the thing you fight about now. b) how some of our problems now where the same as back then (maybe not problems but some personality traits) It was sweet to see how crazy in love we were and defiantly makes me want to get back there, to an extent, there is also this sweetness to the security and passion and life we have now. I guess what I am saying is I am thankful for the journey. I cant believe 1) How we use to question if we were the one and now we are married and have a baby and a mortgage. 2) how quickly we moved. We were telling each other we loved one another before we said we were bf and gf out loud. But I remember this... it was true. I loved that man since the first day I saw him, that has not changed. BUT let me say Copeland may not fall in love that young. Mommy is going to guard that heart with all she has bc it usually does not end the way it did for us.

Another sweet thing about tonight- Copeland is teething so sleep is a little tricky. So he was awake for some of this and I let him play with a old photo of us. I told Josh "wow it is kinda crazy how I am looking at this stuff and "our" son is sitting here playing with stuff of ours from high school. Things really have come full circle."

I will say this, in reading some of the letter we were 2 teenagers on fire for God and really encouraged and prayed for one another. I hope we can get back to the young innocent faith.

It was a great night looking back, I am thankful for it all but mostly thankful for where I am today. I have a beautiful family but mostly I have a wonderful husband, whose smile still melts my heart like a 16 year old girl. I would not change a day with him and would not pick another man. Josh is everything the Lord has for me and I rest in the fact that he has us together for his kingdom. I pray that we grow in that role so that he can use us.

I dont have a scanner to get old old pictures so one of us from 2005 will have to do.

I LOve You JOShua PauL HeNLey

-The Mrs.

A few blogs in one...

2010-08-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

1) Can you transfer your mood to your baby?? The last few days I have been in a mellow, lay in bed, do nothing mood. Copeland, who is not a snuggler at all, the last few days is so clingy and just wants to lay with me. I know he is at the age where he get separation anxiety but I cant help but wonder if he is just in the same mood as me.

2) I need your help friends. I want to do a ball pit for C's first birthday. I was going to get a little pool that we could keep up all the time for him but then only maybe 2 kids could be in there. Since we have have a few kids at the party I need something bigger for just the day. This is where you can help... do you have something I can use for a ball pit?? If so please contact me I just need it for the one day and will return it to you. THanks

3) You blogger experts... I recently changed my email and would like to change it on my blog sign-in but I dont know how. They said I cant... do you know how to change it?

Look at this lil bug... I cant believe he is 10 months old. What an amazing gift he has been to Josh and I. MOnth 10 has brought new things in little life. Copeland has started pulling up on things but does not know how to get back down so he gets real concerned and then just falls. He has started separation anxiety but just with mommy. With daddy he is a cool big boy. He loves to watch older kids (like 3-5 year olds) it is so cute. C loves to wave bye- bye. He does not chew his food just swallows it which makes mommy a little nervous. He still only has 2 teeth but he is growing some hair. He has started making the funniest faces and tell us stories. I dont think he will be a big talker. I am having so much fun teaching him things, we do flash cards and go over body parts and practice words. I love you so much lil man. Thank you for your sweet smile and the joy you give our family.

2010-08-12T08:19:00.000-07:00

New recipe. So easy and so good. No really, I love it and the hubs liked it too. You will be surprised, try it!

Zucchini Muffins Recipe

For those of you who prefer to use oil over butter, be my guest (use 1 cup vegetable oil instead of the butter) but I have to tell you, I've made these both ways, and the butter version just tastes better.

INGREDIENTS

3 cups grated fresh zucchini
2/3 cup melted unsalted butter
1 1/3 cup sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 teaspoons baking soda
Pinch salt
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup walnuts (optional)
1 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

METHOD

You don't need a mixer for this recipe.

1 Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl combine the sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in the grated zucchini and then the melted butter. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the zucchini mixture and mix in. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Stir these dry ingredients into the zucchini mixture. Stir in walnuts, raisins or cranberries if using.

2 Coat each muffin cup in your muffin pan with a little butter or vegetable oil spray. Use a spoon to distribute the muffin dough equally among the cups, filling the cups up completely. Bake on the middle rack until muffins are golden brown, and the top of the muffins bounce back when you press on them, about 25 to 30 minutes. Test with a long toothpick or a thin bamboo skewer to make sure the center of the muffins are done. Set on wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. Remove muffins from the tin let cool another 20 minutes.

Note, if you are including walnuts and dried fruit, you will likely have more batter than is needed for 12 muffins. I got about 14 muffins from this batch, and that included filling the muffin cups up as far as they could possibly go (above the surface of the muffin tin).

2010-08-06T09:20:00.001-07:00

I am very interested in homeschooling my children so I was excited to read a post form my new favorite blog about their feelings on homeschool. Josh and I are not saying we are for-sure doing HS, being that C is only 9 months old we will put more thought into it as he get there. HOwever I loved this little part she said...

That being said, my goals are not that we would have the most smart or well-educated children on the earth, but rather that our children would first love the Lord, desire to serve Him, love to learn, respect and steward God’s creation, and learn to articulate their faith from a Biblical worldview.

WOW, something I have never though of... when I was growing up my grades were always the most important thing. I learned how to get good grades with as little work/education as possible. I received praise for my great grades but as a adult find that I have many short comings. Now, thinking about it, I believe I would have parented the same. But after reading this I realize that your grades do not reflect your education and they most defiantly do not reflect your understanding of Christ and how your relationship with him works in the world around you. When we get to the bridge of education I believe this little phrase will really shape my mind set and how I teach or respond to C and my future children.

Attention Target Shoppers!!

2010-08-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

This is so interesting, Just dont go to target and buy all the good deals... save some for me!

Target Mark Down Schedule

MONDAY: Kids Clothing, Stationary Items, Electronics, Baby
TUESDAY: Domestics, Food, Women’s Clothing, Pets
WEDNESDAY: Men’s Clothing, Toys, HBA, Lawn and Garden
THURSDAY: Housewares, Shoes, Lingerie, Sporting Goods, Music, Movies, Books, Decor, Luggage
FRIDAY: Auto, Cosmetics, Hardware, Jewelry
So what that means is that if you are looking for specific items- say men’s clothing- you will want to hit your store on Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning to get all the latest markdowns. Target typically starts at 15%, then goes to 30%, then 50% , then 75% and sometimes 90%. For the most part 75% off is pretty much the best deal you will find. Again, you just need to learn your specific store. In my area I have been to the store mid morning on Monday and already the clearance baby items have been snatched up.
In addition to the regular markdown schedule there are 2 big events:
Baby Clearance: January and July typically offer massive clearance throughout the baby department. In my experience, July is amazing as there seems to be fewer shoppers. We got our Fisher Price Rainforest highchair 50% off last year and a Graco Triumph car seat 50% off. You can try to hold out for 75% off but in my area the sales usually don’t last that long. (And don’t forget to create a baby registry and you can get an extra 10% off of purchases when you complete your registry!)
Toy Clearance: July and October are the clearance events at Target and Walmart for toys- and of course we have already seen post- Christmas clearance. Fewer people are thinking Christmas in July than in October so you have a better shot at the best deals.

2010-07-30T07:37:00.000-07:00

Friends look at this great great website. It will tell you how toxic your body product is. Have fun typing in what you use and seeing just how bad or not it is for you. Copeland's aveeno stuff not so bad... our St Ive's facewash an 8 out of 10. scary!

Its very interesting and easy to understand. Thanks Jennifer!

http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

also here is a great link to making your own deodorant... I cant wait to try it. (I will review when I do) This will save money as I can/will use all this stuff to cook as well. Organic might not have coupons but there are ways oh there are ways.

http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2010/02/homemade-all-natural-deodorant.html

2010-07-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

I read this one someone else blog today but wow what a great reminder of the job the Lord has called us to do as parents. passionatehomemaking.com“But you, O Lord, are compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” - Psalms 86:15

I have two little disciples – one sweet boy and one sweet girl. They have been specially assigned to me. I’m training little hearts today through my every word and deed. Daily I struggle to instruct, nurture, and guide my little disciples with grace and patience. But these little eyes are watching me. How easy it is for me to erupt in frustration when I must repeat a command after multiple attempts, and my own laziness delays a prompt response. These are the moments I must stop, step back, and remember, these are my disciples. This is my assignment: train these little disciples to love and follow Jesus. Can they see Jesus in me?

Jesus is our example. His twelve disciples continually had so little faith in His power, they fought over positions of glory, before abandoning Him altogether in the garden at His deepest hour of need. And yet, Jesus patiently loved, taught, confronted, and exhorted them. He gave three years of unceasing devotion to equip them in turn to go forth and make disciples. Our little disciples are watching us – they need patient instruction even if it has to be repeated on multiple occasions and locations. The same was true of Jesus. He faithfully planted the seeds which in due time following His accession into heaven, it bore much beautiful fruit for the Kingdom.

Patience and humility go hand in hand. The reason I loose my temper is tied to pride. It is when I feel I need to be in control, or things do not go the way I plan or prefer, that my children don’t behave. Confess your weakness and be open and honest before the Lord in repenting it. Fruit is born when we stop and acknowledge our short comings and apologize before our children. That is when they are attracted to such grace and humility in Jesus.

Never cease praying for patience and grace. Pray daily! Pray at the start of each day that God would supply you with divine grace and patience in your mothering. He is faithful to answer and equip you for the task. God gives such supernatural strength to those who ask.

Stop dwelling on the “tough” portions of your day and focus on the beauty around you. Look at the sweet gifts around you and the little blessings that took place during your day. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord! It does wonders to our spirits.

I deserve the wrath of God because of my sin, and yet God extended such patience and forgiveness again and again. Likewise, can I not extend mercy and patience when such love has been lavished on me?

It is said of the Proverbs 31 woman, “When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness (Prov 31:26)”. Is kind speech flowing from my tongue today?

I’m training little hearts today, through my every word and deed.
May they see Christ in me, and by grace be understood.

I can rejoice today because training these little disciples is all apart of that greater beautiful picture of God’s divine grace, pruning, and refining in my heart – equipping me each day to be a better mother tomorrow.

Meditate further: Proverbs 14:29; Ephesians 4:26-27, 31; James 1:19-20; Galatians 5:22; Romans 15:5

2010-07-23T15:09:00.001-07:00

I am feeling a little defeated by the fact that I am not patient, not precise and not diligent... oh and horrible at research....

I want to be educated and I want to be good at things but do to the above listed thing I AM NOT.

Sewing- love it want to be better at it but I am cheap and not patient and so I dont do it right

Cake decorating- same

organic living... SO SO SO intimidated. I really feel called to make this change but I just dont have the knowledge or the patients , diligence to become educated.

RRRR very frustrated with myself today. Lord- Please change me and give me this gift.

Confession-

2010-07-21T14:44:00.001-07:00

As Josh and I talk about the future and our kids (to-be) I kinda feel like I will never birth again. This is not all that sad for me expect that I want to BIRTH again. Not be pregnant and really not even have a baby (we are looking at adopting a little older like 6 months to a year or something). I just want to give birth... I want to do it at home WITHOUT an epi. I have no problem with women who choose to get one but it was not what I wanted. I would give anything to do it over again, KINDA OF. The Lord grace is so sweet... if I had it my way I would have done a water birth, well C's cord was in a knot which means he would have drowned during the birth. So the Lord is sweet and for that I am grateful and without complaint. I just want to birth a baby the way I see it right. I tell all my friends to do it and yet I have not. I find myself looking at blogs and fb to see someones birth story, to see if they did it. It is not what defines me and I need to realize it does not matter. C is great, I am great and we are all happy and 3 months away from one year!! I had to type it out and confess. I hate my birth story but I am a mom, a wife and most importantly a Christian. Natural birth is not a label that should be on top of my list.

My sweet boy is 9 months old

2010-07-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

Copeland- I am so excited to watch you grow in this new month. Last month you started crawling and on your 9 month birthday you clapped for the first time. My new favorite thing you do is when you look around so curious (either for the dog or a noise). I know that sounds silly but watching it is so sweet. You are looking with purpose and you are really taking in what you see. Daddy loves that you discovered when food is on your month. You will take your bottom lip and try to get the food off your top lip. It is super cute. You are a big boy at 9 months, 20 pound and 29 inches long. That puts your height at 75%

You are more joy then I can ever describe. Last night when I got in bed I begged daddy to let me go get you and snuggle with you (no babies in the bed that is our rule... stupid rule) Everything about you brings a smile to my face and I cant get enough of you. The other day Ashley and I were talking about what you will look like as a kid... I am excited to watch you grow but happy to be here at 9 months with my lil man.

We had a GREAT 4th thanks to family, friends and mmm good food!

2010-07-07T14:10:00.001-07:00

2010-07-06T11:46:00.000-07:00

Since a lot of my blog readers are mommy's here are 2 great deals... for FREE!

Free Bible Songs for Kids download

Bible Truth Music is offering a free download of 12 Scripture Songs when you email this offer to three of your friends. Or, you can download six songs with no obligation.

(you can use my email as a friend if you would like.)

Free Baby Sign Language chart and alphabet chart

Sign up for the free Sign2Me Spotlight newsletter and you’ll get a free Getting Started baby sign language chart and Alphabet Chart, among other free gifts.

Leave a comment if you take advantage of these great deals!!

HE IS ON THE MOVE!

2010-06-29T14:29:00.001-07:00

Copeland started crawling today!

Being a stay at home mom....

2010-06-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

Its everything I thought it would be. I am so "here" now that I am not trying to be or do 100 things I am just so "here" I can focus and really enjoy my time with my son. I am staying on top of my couponing and saving my family money! I am working out on a regular bases (this is very very new but I am hopeful). MY HOUSE HAS NEVER BEEN CLEANER! I love it, I love taking care of my home and knowing that my husband can come home to a clean house and just relax. That is really one of the best gifts knowing that I can do that for him. I love everything about it and how it is molding me into the person I have always wanted to be. I am cleaner, more organized, more intentional and calm. I have always been one who needs constant entertainment and friends around. But I learning to sit at home and be content. Somethings have not improved I promised when I stayed at home that I would become a reader and you know how many books I have read... ZERO! But one thing at a time.

Things I am looking forward too...

1. READING

2. as Copeland gets older have a schedule where we do arts and crafts and learning

3. Keeping the house clean instead of cleaning it everyday.

4. BECOMING A BETTER AND MUCH HEALTHIER COOK. This is a big big desire of mine that I am a little afraid of. Also I might have to drag the hubs kicking and screaming. He is pretty good as far as wanting to eat healthy but then says no to a lot of veggies. I have converted him to bell peppers, squash and zucchini so I think I can do it.

5. I want to blog more and about interesting stuff... there are so many blogs I love to go to and I want to write like them. I love to wrote and blog.

H E L P

2010-06-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

I need your help... what do you eat for lunch?

I don't like sandwiches and I am tried of eating turkey dogs everyday (ok I am not tired of it but I know I shouldn't) so help me out.

What do you eat (at home not going out)??

Naked Baby, my son loves to be naked.

2010-06-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

DISCLAIMER: I did my best to not get the family jewels but sometimes they got in the shot. He is so cute and SO crazy.

Copeland loves LEMONS

2010-06-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

2010-06-13T00:47:00.001-07:00

As Copeland gets older we are having more and more convos about #2. I am so excited to expand my family HOWEVER...

Copeland is so so good, I mean just the best baby ever. He only cries if tired or hunger. He has a huge perfect smile all the time, he does the funniest thing and so much more. What if another baby does not have his mannerisms?? I will be lost. I guess what I am really saying is I love love love my sweet boy and I am thankful for every little thing that makes him, him. The Lord was so gracious to Josh and I with this one.

I have to remember that we did nothing to make him this way and it is ALL the Lord, He will give us a special, perfect baby when time comes for #2. Even if that little one is different from C

On other Copeland notes, we went to a wedding rehearsal tonight and saw a cute little boy (ring boy) who was umm maybe 3 or 4 and he was so cute and it hit me... Copeland will be that big someday. Wow I cant believe it. No for real I cant picture him being anything more then he is now. This week I have really felt like he is becoming a big boy (first time). He is becoming so independent and I love it just love watching him grow but the whole "they grow up so fast" is coming true for me and it is a little sad. I just cant believe how much they change so quickly.

Mommy and Daddy love you pumpkin head

In other news stay at home moms (I am a new one) is it normal to be a little jealous of how you baby is with daddy?? Copeland does totally different things with Josh and while it warms my heart to see that bond with them I am also thinking "I wish he would do that with me." Am I the only one?

2010-06-12T22:39:00.000-07:00

My son acts like giving him water is like asking him to drink acid... he is a weird one.

Thats all!

2010-06-01T23:03:00.000-07:00

Now that I am a stay at home mom I have time to start my crafts again... I cant wait to sew Copeland a new comforter. Of course it will have owls on it, I am so excited!

I just finished make some Initial Hair Bow Holders but they are birthdays presents so I cant post pictures.

Hopefully there will be a lot more to come!

2010-05-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

From Living By The Book...

Shortly after I became a Christian, someone wrote in the flyleaf of my Bible these words: "This book will keep you form sin, or sin will keep you form this book." That was true then and its still true today. Dusty Bibles always lead to dirty lives. In fact, you are either in the word and the word is conforming you to the image of Jesus Christ, or you are int he world and the world is squeezing you into its mold.

It was a sweet reminder after last nights post that the Lord is with me and will work in my life.

L.A.Z.Y

2010-05-19T18:44:00.000-07:00

I am so so so Lazy with my faith...

Lazy with:

Reading the word

Praying

Going to church

all of it...

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.1 Corinthians 9

I have been a Christian long enough to know the prize (or as much of it I can get here on earth) I know the He is good, the He is enough, I know that in him all things are better. And yet I find myself becoming more and more lazy. I always thought that having a child would change me so much bc I would be a living example to my son or daughter... and yet 7 months in and I am... LAZY. Too lazy to seek God for myself, my family and my son.

Lord-

HELP ME, I want to run the race and run it well. I want to know you more, I want to be a silent reflection of you to my son and husband. I always ask for your help but what I really need is DISCIPLINE, I need to just get off my butt and do it. Chase after the Father who saved my soul and who has given me all the things I use to avoid time with you.

Amen

2010-05-16T14:06:00.001-07:00

We have been busy... and now that daddy has a new camera that means every moment is captured... but I love it! And Josh is doing a great job.

I am so blessed to have my sweet family.

Just look at this boys face... it lights up my day!

Copie how are you 7 months already... so big and lovable.

Copeland on mothers day... best gift ever!

We took Copeland to see baby Tigers (they were 4 weeks old and so so cute)

The hardest thing I will ever do... (bottom)

2010-05-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

Have I said how much I love this face too much?? Well then add this to the list bc I just love him more and more each day.

Copeland is almost 7 months old... He has 2 bottom teeth and a smile that melts your heart. He has really figured out who daddy is and lights up when they play. Speaking of daddy Josh is a great father and so hands on. He feed Copeland every night and it is just so sweet that they get that time together. Copeland has fallen in love with Cooper and Cooper is so sweet bc Copeland pulls his poor ears and Cooper does not even get upset... he just looks at you like please save me. His new tricks- he can sit in the shopping cart. Lord thank you for my sweet blessing!

I am going to give up tea for a week... if you know me I love nothing more then a big cup of sweet tea but I am giving it up, just for a week to start. I will cry and probably scream but I can do (I think)

Lord please help me resist this cold, sweet yummy treat!

2010-04-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I planted flower for the first time in my new house... last year I was pregnant and we had so much to do on the inside we did nothing to the outside... but this year its on. It was so nice to be outside with my boys.

Copeland's first time to ride a horse!!

2010-04-12T20:18:00.000-07:00

Copeland, Josh and I went out to the ranch on Saturday and C rode a horse for the first time... he LOVED it.

Thank you Chief for being a good boy while my baby was on you!

Copeland's 1st Easter.

2010-04-05T11:46:00.001-07:00

Copeland's 1st Easter was GREAT. We went to Oklahoma so that Josh could play in a Easter service with a childhood friend. The Littleton's have a sweet 1 yr old named Mason. Copeland and Mason had such a great time. They even colored Easter eggs, it was cute. I cant believe how big Copeland is getting, he is so fun at this age. When we got home mommy found a present from the Easter bunny... Copeland is starting to get his first tooth.

Pumpkin- I love you and you made this Easter the best of all of them... but most of all I pray for your soul and that you will someday celebrate this day with your daddy and me as a believe in Jesus Christ. As I look at the gift you are I think of the cross and the gift He gave on it. HE IS ALIVE and this is why we celebrate, sing and rejoice.

My man...

2010-03-25T13:36:00.000-07:00

I love my husband so much. Everyday we grow closer and become one. It is so great to look back at our life together and see how the Lord has been moving and working. Even in only 5 months the Lord has done so much with us personally and as a married couple since the birth of our son. Being a mom is amazing but hard work and very tiring. I recently told Josh that it is hard doing all that I am doing and I asked him if after dinner I can get the baby ready for bed and put him to bed while he did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen. The very next night he did it without being asked and has done it every night since. Last night he even cleaned up after we had a few people over for dinner and did not even ask me to help. What a blessing (he has no idea how much). He is just such a sweet caring man. Being we got married young (and began dating REALLY young) it has been awesome watching him become a man and a leader of his home. One of my favorite things (right now) is when he gets home from work he takes Copeland from me... like he cant wait to see him. It melts my heart. Not to air our dirty laundry but we faced something hard that we disagreed on this past weekend but we never yelled or got in a fight we talked things out and both really listened to one another. This is so different from the selfish young chickens we started out as. Thank you baby for everything you are in my life. How you have learned and transformed our home is something I will be bragging about forever. The way you make your son laugh and love him like a boy makes me so excited to see yall in the yard playing together some day. You have become such a gentle leader to me and you make it easy to follow you (even if it seems like you are dragging me sometimes.) I love your smile, heart and lets be honest here bottom!! I love you so much.

5 months... already

2010-03-12T12:55:00.001-08:00

How did this happen my little man is 5 months old... but he is more fun each day.

Right now:

You love sweet potatoes and bananas but hate pea and green beans... we just tried apples today and you seem to like those too!

You just started this thing were you make a spitting around month and b low bubbles... also you stick your under lip behind the top one and "mmmmmm" This is funny bc your daddy did this about your age.

Last night we put you in the Johnny Jumper for the first time... its your new FAVORITE... we also put a mirror across from it and you laugh at yourself.

Your daddy and I just fall more in love everyday. You make us laugh and bring a BIG smile to our face. Thank you for the joy you are in our life, what a special gift.

2010-02-25T12:55:00.000-08:00

For my friends who have asked me to blog about cloth diapering... IT IS GREAT. I love it and it is so so easy. I use flip diapers... and bought some bum genius inserts bc they were cheapest. I wash every other night. One cycle of a cold rinse and then one full cycle on hot with detergent (you have to use a special detergent) I have a wet bag (thank you Jen) and I just put the diapers in that until wash time. When wash night comes it has a zipper at the bottom so I can just unzip over the machine and everything falls in. I also throw the bag in there. Then I let them air dry. Once the weather gets nice I will dry them outside as I hear the sun helps with stains. When I am out and about I got the little bags they sell for dogs (to pick up their poo) and I use that to keep the dirty diaper in. When I get home I just tear the bag and dump the diaper in the wet bag. EASY AS 1, 2, 3.

Everthing I use:

Flip diapers

Flip inserts

BumGenius inserts

Wet Bag

Tiny Bubbles Detergent

I TOTALLY RECOMMEND IT, total I have spent $180. I am going to buy 2 more outside parts so we are looking at a total of $210 for all the diapers Copeland will need until he uses the big boy potty. Also I plan to use these on kiddo #2. I am saving money and Miss Earth!

WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME???

2010-02-06T22:38:00.000-08:00

My friend had a baby the other day (congrats Stephanie) and it made me think back to Copeland's sweet birth. For some horrible reason it made me long to do it again. Now if you dont know me that might sound weird but seeing that I NEVER wanted to get pregnant it is strange that I would want to do it again. After talking about it with Josh I dont want to get pregnant again as much as I want to give birth again. It is just so amazing and now I know so much more and would do things different. Not b/c Copeland's was bad but I would try the water birth again and I would for sure try to not get a epi. I would also tape it. I know that sound weird and gross but now (only 3 month later) I cant remember the first words said after he came out. Did someone say "its a boy" or "He is here" I cant remember. I just remember feeling so much at the moment that I could not take a lot of it in. I will probably never birth again but it is a blessing that I am glad the Lord gave me, even if I said I did not want it.

Happy 3 months Copeland... you are such a blessing and light up your mommy and daddy's world. Nothing can top your sweet smile. We love to listen to you talk and you have a lot to say. You love to sleep with mommy and daddy which is a habit we have to break (even if mommy does not want to) Some how you got HUGE over night. My sweet lean boy is filling out. Thank you for the joy you bring us.

My favorite picture of Copie...

2010-01-24T16:37:00.001-08:00

So Thankful...

2010-01-20T10:57:00.001-08:00

When Josh and I first started looking into buying home I did not want to look over the bridge. However God had a different plan... isn't he funny like that? We have a home that I love. (To get a 4 bedroom home was such a blessing) Our friends live one street over, our other friends down the road and my best friend since 3rd grade lives maybe a mile away. We have started going to the Denton campus (The Village Church) and I love it there! I am also turning into a little "denton person." Josh and I are going to try cloth diapers, the other day I bought the reusable bags and we recycle. (I know you love me for this dear) All in all I love where I live and I thank God for where he has put us.

Did you catch that above... we are going to try out cloth diapers. I am actually really excited. I will let you know how it goes. We are trying Flip Diapers.
http://www.cottonbabies.com/index.php?cPath=139

Goodbye 09, hello 10

2010-01-06T08:36:00.001-08:00

Well 2010 and has been rough so far. We have started Copeland in his crib and it is not going as well as we would like. He wakes up about every 2 hours wanting his paci. Praying we get over this hump soon. But that is not the worse of it. New Years Eve I did not feel good but I thought I was just tired. We had the Hills come spend the night and it was such a blessing to have our 2 families together. However the next day about noon I got a fever and it lasted until about 4. That was only the beginning. I continued to feel worse then worse for the next 6 days. On Saturday night I busted my ear drum and wow that hurt. NOw I am on 2 pills and war drops and so so tired. I want to feel better and most of all I want to play with my sweet boy. I have been staying away from him to make sure he does not get it. Thanks to my hubby who was a big help even though he did not feel great either. Hoping we got the worse over first and all will be up hill from here.

2009 however was an amazingly great year...

Jan- We got pregnant

Feb- Found out we were pregnant

March- Bought our 1 st home

April- Moved into our first home.

May- Got G1's and started guessing the sex of Baby Hen

June- Found out we were having a boy

July- 1st shower, finished Copeland's room, got my first ever bedroom suite, went on babymoon and Jeriah moved in

August- Second shower and mother in law came to visit

Sept- Dilated to a 3

Oct- COPELAND was born, Josh turned 25

NOv- I turned 24, mother in law moved to TX and Copeland's first Thanksgiving

Dec- Copeland's first Christmas and our first time to have christmas in our home

HAPPY 2010!

2009-12-28T21:36:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we went to church (John Piper delivered a great message) and then went out to eat. Copeland had been in a weird mood for 2 days and thought a huge fit sounded like fun. So we put him in his crib to cry it out while we fixed him a bottle (man it takes forever to warm a bottle when your child is screaming their head off) While the bottle is warming Josh gets a call from our friend Sam who says "Is Copeland in his room crying?" JH "yes why can you hear him?" SR "Yes in our daughters monitor." Thats right our friends who live 2 streets over could hear my son in their daughters rooms better then I could hear him in my own house. Then Ashley (Sam's wife and my sweet friend) said "would you and another lady have been talking bout someone named Denise the other day?" Crazy bc a family member named Denise had just brought over tons of clothes for Copeland. She heard my moms and I whole conversation. So beware friends people with baby monitors in your neighborhood can hear you.

How it works: when the Ritter's turned off the monitor in their daughters room but left on the receiving one in there room it looked for the signal that it was not getting from the one in their house and picked up the one in my house. So it only works if they turn off their child's monitor but still freaky that someone could hear what you are saying in your baby room. My mother in law told me she heard about this and that some people have even heard someone making love... gross and who makes love in their child's nursery. BE AWARE SOMEONE IS LISTENING.

PICTURE: above is us on christmas morning it was Copeland's 1st christmas and so so special. We had everyone at our house and that was neat. We are so blessed to have such a great family.

2 Months old

2009-12-14T21:04:00.000-08:00

My sweet little man is 2 months old... how did this happen. He is already becoming mister independent. He will sit on his mat and play for like 45 mins. While this is a VERY nice break for mommy its also sad bc he is needing me less and less. I still enjoy him snuggling up to my chest and rocking at night before bed. Copeland please never grow out of that.

I cant believe how much I love being a mom and how every little thing he does seems like it makes the world stop spinning. Next week will be his first time to go to church. I am so excited to go to church as a family.

Lord-

I pray for my sweet little man. I ask that I dont put him above you and remember that he is yours first. I ask for salvation and a really understanding of who you are for him. Guide us as parents and help us to be quick to apologize when we are wrong. Both to you and him. Thank you for my husband and how I am falling more in love with him as I see him as a daddy. Thank you for Copeland's sweet sweet smile.

To celebrate the cold weather...

2009-12-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

Great soup recipe... I did use turkey this time but will use chicken next. (serves 4)

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/3 cup minced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-1/4 teaspoons chili powder

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon oregano

2-2/3 cups water

2/3 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup

2/3 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes

2/3 cup salsa

2-2/3 cups shredded cooked turkey

2 teaspoons dried parsley

2 chicken bouillon cubes

2/3 (14 ounce) can black beans, rinsed, drained

1-1/3 cups frozen corn

1/3 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons and 2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro

Toppings:

4 cups corn tortilla chips

1/2 cup chopped green onion

2/3 cup shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/3 cup sour cream

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced onions and cook until onions begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin and oregano and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

Stir in water, tomato soup, diced tomatoes, salsa, shredded turkey, parsley and bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until bouillon cubes dissolve. Add black beans, corn, sour cream and cilantro. Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.

Serve soup with crushed tortilla chips, chopped green onion, shredded cheese and additional cilantro and sour cream

2009-11-21T17:23:00.000-08:00

What can I say my son is a stud, attracting the ladies already.

On Wed. Josh and I will celebrate 3 years together. Today I watched our wedding video and I feel like I dont know those people anymore. It was fun being newlyweds and all the first that come with that. But I have to say a lot has happened in 3 years and I like the I can finish your sentence, there not much that is new phase better. There is a comfort in our relationship that is so nice. I fall more in love with my husband ever day and I love doing life with him even if it is just the normal, boring life. He makes it amazing.

Copeland gets more and more fun everyday. I am starting to "learn" him and it is really neat. He is in a I only want mommies phase which could be hard but I am trying to be still and enjoy this time with him.

Looking forward to turkey day with family... bring on the food!

2009-11-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

Copeland's newborn pictures are up.

Please go to http://www.meaganblock.com/proofs/ and use the login: copeland.

Hope you enjoy!

They are onlyup until the 27th so hurry!

2009-11-09T23:30:00.000-08:00

We just finished Copeland's birth announcement and now we are waiting on his newborn pictures to be finished. I cant wait he is just the (2nd) love of my life (the 1st being his daddy of course).

Big month: I turn 24!! Copeland turns 1 month!! Josh's mom is moving to Texas and will be close to her grandson (also we will have another babysitter) and I am hosting one of my dearest friends baby shower. oh and of course thanksgiving!!! Good month!

Also I have some friends who will be celebrating their birthdays, Josh and I's friends got engaged and a friend will have her baby (shout out to you Jen Windle HE/she is coming)

2009-11-03T18:49:00.000-08:00

Well my mother-in-law left today which means I am on my own for the first time. Copeland has become a little fussy (he has never been a crier until this point). It makes motherhood a little hard. Ik now it will pass but I am tired (from him waking up all night) and I wish I knew why he was crying. I feel like he is either crying or asleep. Which means I feel like I am not spending time with him loving on him and playing. This has actually only been a few days that this is happening but its funny when you are a new mom and figuring things out a few days feels like forever. I now see why maternity leave is so important.

Josh and I got to go on a date which was nice. We are still husband and wife even if being mom and dad takes up a lot of time. It was nice to sit across from him and connect. I am blessed to have the husband I have.

We had our first halloween (first halloween for Copeland and our first to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters it was fun!) Copeland was a bear.

Birth Story- Finally!

2009-10-28T12:21:00.001-07:00

I woke up Monday morning and started to get ready for work. I thought maybe my water broke so I called the hospital and they said it probably did but I was having no contractions. So I got in the shower. By the time I got to drying my hair they had started. At that point my mom is calling Josh telling him, if her water has broke yall dont have time to get ready, get her to the hospital. So Josh tells me we need to go. I had about 3 contractions on the way there and Josh told me they were 8 mins apart (what an amazing husband, I forgot that I was supposed to be watching that but he just knew what he was doing) I was so hungry and told him I really wanted Cracker Barrel. He told me if you have this baby I will get you Cracker Barrel. We get to the hospital and here comes another contractions so someone gets me a wheel chair. They are just hitting back to back at this point. The Dr comes and checks me and says I am dilated to a 3 and my water had not broke. Just a little bit later, my water broke. I started freaking out telling the nurses "I am peeing and I cant make it stop" They told me not to worry it was my water braking (still gross wither way). I had my mom on one side and Josh on the other. At one point Josh stepped away from the bed for a sec. I realized in that moment how much I needed my husband. My mom was still there holding my hand but her hand felt so small compared to his and I found comfort in his strength. Between the pain and nastiness I told Josh if they dont get me in the water I am going to back out (aka go for the epi). At that point a nurse walked in who had not been there the whole time and we never saw her again (later you will see why this is important). Josh asked her when I could get in the water and she said not until I was a 7. I told Josh after a little while that I could not make it that long and that I wanted the epi. The nurse came in and told me I could have got in at a 4. She told me I was a 7 and they would put me in the water right away but the epi Dr. was going into a c-section so I had to pick now or never. I dont know why but I said I wanted the epi. the nurse left to tell the Dr and all of a sudden I go the worse strongest contraction EVER. I had to push there was no choice. I started telling Josh... I have to push, I have to push. He sent my mom to get the nurse. The nurse walks in and says "oh honey dont push" and then another one of those contractions came. I think she knew I was not joking because she said "ok lets check you" and I was a 10. The Dr came in (not my Dr) and said lets have a baby. I pushed 4 times and she looked at me and said "ok Kallie if you dont push him out I am going to have to get him out." I was not that freaked out but I guess my mom and Josh knew something was wrong. His heart rate was dropping really low. Go to find out he had a knot in his cord.

*the way a water birth works is the baby breathes thur the cord until he hits the air. HOwever Copeland's cord had a knot in it and he would have breathed in the water. So the fact that the nurse had no idea what she was talking about and told me I could not get in until I was a 7 was a blessing bc the water birth would have been very bad. Praise the Lord for his protection over us.

Well thats the story... only 3 hours of labor from start to finish and I have the best little man ever.

Fun Facts:

-I would not let Josh or my mom let go of my hand but if they touched the bed I would freak out.

-I told Josh during labor to go get a Vasectomy

- The C-section lady had her baby natural while the epi Dr. was with me.

-Copeland's nose was flat from the way he was inside or me, but no cone head!

- Nurse told me I should get more then Cracker Barrel for this.

-How I dealt with the pain-I told my body to "RELAX"

Funny Part- I said it probably about 100,000 times. The nurses kept asking me "what did you say honey" and Josh would tell them "oh she is just telling herself to relax"

* To my Natural Friends- This really really helped. Just picture yourself telling your area... that you are going to relax. You end up relaxing!

- They tell you to breath and not hold your breath and you wont believe them but it really does make it hurt a very little bit less.

I can not tell you how amazing my husband was... so calm and always there for me. I love him even more. And he is a great daddy.

2009-10-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

daddy goes back to work on tuesday... we are very sad about that.

Life has not slowed down enough to type out the birth story but soon! I will say I never knew I could love something so much... I miss him even when I just go take a shower.

2009-10-14T02:09:00.000-07:00

Not happy about the first car seat but did great on the car ride home.

Copeland Jude Henley

October 12, 2009

8 Lbs. 9 Oz 20.5 inches

11:35 a.m.

For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition

1 Samuel 1: 27

Maternity Pictures By Laura Wells

2009-10-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

Thank you Laura for the pic's... we love them and your great work! NOw we just need a baby!

2009-10-06T16:10:00.000-07:00

well josh and i went to the doctor today and he said if copeland is not hear by wed that we will break my water. that means in a week, if not sooner, i will be a mommy. not going to lie that makes me a little nervous but more excited. i am going to meet my son, i cant believe it. copeland i love u so much already and seeing ur sweet face will only make it better. daddy and mommy are so ready for u son. dont know if i am ready for how life is about to change but here it comes ready or not. we will keep u posted.

37 Weeks- Full Term

2009-09-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

Josh and I went on a date to the restaurant Copeland's... it was really good food. Then got ice cream. It was a great night, we were hoping the spicy cajun food would send me into labor. The food (that I ordered) was not spicy but maybe I will still go into labor tonight. Gosh I hope so. Josh is so excited and wants to meet his son so so so bad. It is very cute. He heard an old wifes tale that if you eat a whole pineapple you will go into labor and he actually went and bought a pineapple and cut it up for me to eat. I just love this crazy man.

2009-09-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

perk of being pregnant: how happy it makes other people.
I love when I walk in a store or restaurant and I catch someone looking at my belly and smiling or pointing. Once a group of older ladies were even talking about me as I pasted their table. It is sweet to see people finding joy in something that it happening to a stranger.

I love this weather... fall is my favorite!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love being outside and it is making this 9 months pregnant thing so much better.

We are STILL looking for a job for my brother-in-law so if you know of a restaurant or store that is hiring please please let me know.

Maternity pictures coming soon!

Update...

2009-09-15T21:18:00.000-07:00

Well I went to the Dr. today and she told me I was dilated to a 3. I was hoping and praying for a 1 and I am a 3. You would think this would be super exciting but it FREAKED me out. I got in the car, called Josh, and started crying.

"I cant do this, I cant birth a baby."

I know I can be a 3 for another month but for me it made it more real and freaked me out.

Josh is an amazing husband and daddy and just helped me focus on the fact that we would be meeting our son and not so much on the birthing part.

Part 2 of the crying was bc the Dr totally freaked me out about the water birth. My Dr was out of town so I saw someone in his practice and apparently she is not for the water birth bc she said horrible things and it is really making me question if this is what I want to do. SO our birthing plan may change. We will see.

I go back to the Dr (my Dr) on Tuesday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of Copeland's Room, They downloaded backwards (sorry)

His closet thanks for the idea Molly

The valance- it was a lot of work to get this thing. Good ol' Babies R US

Copeland's handmade sign, thanks Daddy.

I have not finished the shelf bc I figured I would know what I needed out once he got here (please get here soon)

Changing table

Crib and Glider

Our sweet family, we are so blessed to have each other.

well Josh and I went to the Dr last week. My belly is measuring right on but my baby not so much. Copeland is 2 weeks bigger then his time (a little over 4 lbs) I think it was good to hear that though bc it has really made me want to eat more and keep him small, healthy, but small.

I am so so ready for this little one to be here. Many of my friends have had their babies and seeing what they look like is really making me want to meet my little man. Copeland mommy and daddy are ready for you. I have all your stuff washed. It is to soon to feel this way we have a little over a month left.

Life has been weird lately. Everything is harder when you are at the end of your pregnancy and I really miss my husband. I know that is weird but at the end you dont have the energy you had before, you cant dress cute and go out (or at least you dont feel cute) and there are just a lot of other changes. I feel like all my ways of connecting with Josh I cant do now and so I miss them so bad. The bad news is things wont be changing anytime soon because even once the baby comes many of the "obstacles" will still be there. The good news is that Josh's mom is coming to stay for about 3 weeks so hopefully we can get a date in while she is here. If we can stand to leave our sweet boy.

I am so ready to dive into fellowship at the Denton campus. We said we were going to wait until the baby was born bc we did not want to start a home group and serving and then have to break. But I have to say I miss it greatly and long for the day.

well I guess that is enough of me thinking out load, bye for now!

2009-08-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

Cooper is showing me how the baby stuff works. He will be a great older brother!

2009-08-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

I know I have been blessed to have a pretty easy pregnancy but I fear it is all catching up with me. I am 100% miserable. My legs hurt ALL the time. I am so tired and never want to do anything (aka cook dinner) and most of the time it feels like Copeland is going to drop out the bottom of my stomach. And I still have 2 months to go RRRR! Please come early baby boy.

Good news:

Copelands room is almost done.

Brother in law now lives with us... welcome Jeriah!

We have a sono on Thursday the 20th!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here are a few pics from my shower...

sister-in-law and mommy

Hostesses, thanks friends

Please vote for Cooper... you can vote everyday!!

2009-08-04T08:29:00.001-07:00

PLease vote each day!

http://www.cutestdogcompetition.com/vote.cfm?h=6980205886E316A699508B8956500A83

Our Home... Finally

2009-08-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

29 weeks

Our formal dinning

Formal living

Kitchen from the living

extra bath

Brother-in-law's room/ guest room

The nursery which is not done yet!

Babymoon

2009-07-25T08:49:00.000-07:00

Us at the Glass Cactus over looking the lake

My handsome husband at dinner

28 weeks... and huge!

The bread at dinner... I thought it was cute!

Little Miki the monkey

I did not take very many pictures but here are a few from our "trip" to the Gaylord. We also saw The Proposal, pretty cute and funny!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Heading off to our babymoon with a kicking baby! I think he is going to be a soccer player... he is, he is!

2 days at Gaylord Texan- swimming, food and a movie cant wait!

Baby Shower

2009-07-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I had my first baby shower, it was at Beth Marie's in Denton and was so cute (thanks friends) Here are a few pictures.

My Friend Kasi and I
Natalie and Ashlyn eating cake and ice cream
cute cute cake

Thanks to my great hostesses!

Thanks to everyone who came. Josh and I felt so blessed and cant wait to use all of Copelands new things. We also cant wait to show him to our friends. Is Oct. here yet??

A lot to look forward too...

2009-07-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

This weekend I am having my first baby shower. I am so excited! I am blessed to have good friends who would put all it together for me. I cant wait to have all my friends in one room and to celebrate the life the Lord has created in me. It reminds me of 1 Samuel 1:27 For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him. I never thought Josh and I would be here. A baby, a house and a job that I can stay with my kid. This are all things I have prayed for and even though the Lord would be amazing without these things it is crazy to know that He has given them to me. A child is a crazy gift bc you feel so blessed and yet so unworthy. It really just shows you how much you rely on Him.

Then the next weekend Josh and I are going on our verse of a babymoon. We are not getting away but I am still excited. We are going to go stay at the Gaylord and enjoy the fun things there. I also got a new outfit to wear for our night out. (this is really exciting when you pregnant. for me I have not wanted to spend money one maternity clothes so I wear the same thing over and over again. its also hard to feel attractive when you are huge and swollen, oh and waddling.)

The next weekend is my second shower and my mother-in-law is coming in town. I cant wait to show her the house and introduce her to my friends.

Big events in between-

Annabelle will be born!

celebrating Jeremy's 25th

seeing the andujar's at jeremy's celebration

NOT having to say goodbye to a friend who was supposed to move (Mack)

water aerobics

Jen Windle massages

birthing class

brother-in-law moving in with us

spending more time at the denton campus and meeting people there

finishing Copeland's room

hopefully getting another sonogram its been 6 weeks since I have seen my little man I am going crazy

Things I am not looking forward to:

taking my 3 hour glucose test

2009-07-12T19:26:00.000-07:00

Josh and I at 26 weeks

Sweet Presley turned 1 (her mom and I have been BF since 3rd grade)

Her party was so so cute

The belly is just growing.

Josh and I have been busy at work on Copelands room and it is almost done. I cant wait to put up pictures. I also have my first shower coming up so I cant wait to have all my friends in one spot. My amazing hostesses came up with the BEST idea ever and it is going to be at a ice cream parlor. Also Josh's mom is coming in town for my second shower so we are busy trying to get the house ready for her.

Josh and I have changed Dr's and we are so so happy. Dr.Cummings in Denton ROCKS! We are going to do a water birth and I am so excited. There are just so many benefits and we both feel like this is what we are supposed to do.

Selling a few house hold items that dont work in my home, let me know if you are interested in anything.

(Sorry we are not selling the tv that picture is to show the curtains we are selling)

http://www2.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=985340022/a=153427095_153427095/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

2009-07-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

24 weeks

I love my husband

The new dresser

The other new dresser

OUr new bed!

Cooper helping with Copeland's room what a good big bro!

Josh and I wrote a prayer on Copeland's wall before we painted it

Copeland now has more clothes then me.

W H A T...

2009-06-17T19:38:00.001-07:00

If you know me at all this post will come as a COMPLETE surprise.

I am really enjoying being pregnant.

Now let me explain. Yes it makes the hot summer even hotter, I feel like a beached whale and then am reminded I look like one when I see myself in the mirror, It is odd to have this extra foreign thing coming out of your body and it hurts sometimes. Oh and did I mention my new favorite place is the restroom bc I pee every 4 sec. BUT it is also a weird gift. That something is growing inside of you. That my little man is only a little over a pound and I can feel him inside of me, its like he is saying "hey mom still here." Its like you are responsible for this little thing and all the sudden the world seems so different. Like how I am going to give birth is the biggest choice I have ever made and I cant take it lightly. It has just hit me this week what a gift it is even if labor totally sucks (we will see if I take this all back during labor.) Thank you Lord for this little man (ps- I am overjoyed that I am having a boy) and the chance to carry him. While I truly believe that all our children will not be carried by me, I am overwhelmed by the blessing that this one is. Praise be to you alone the creator of this and of my little Copeland.

Pregnancy so far...

2009-06-13T21:33:00.000-07:00

22 weeks

21 weeks

20 weeks

Its a Boy

15 weeks

We are pregnant

2009-06-02T09:13:00.001-07:00

Well I guess a momma knows her boy... bc we were right!!

On the way to go buy baby boy stuff right now!

Copeland Jude Henley

coming to a hospital near you this October!

2009-05-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

20 WEEKS- umm my little cha cha is the size of a cantaloupe this week. That is so crazy to me. I cant wait to find out what you are baby hen. Only 4 more days!

So I needed to find a new groomer when I walked into Petco and a groomer was stabbing at a dogs ear to get a knot out. Can I say Blissful Bark in Flower Mound is AMAZING. I love love love it there and so did little Cooper.

2009-05-24T13:48:00.001-07:00

Well on Wednesday I had a stranger ask me when I was due, and then again on Thursday. It was the first time ever that a stranger noticed I was pregnant. Pretty big moment.

On June 2nd we go in to find out what we are having... that is like 8 days form now. I am so excited!!!!

The family I work for just moved to a new house. It is fun playing with Nat in a new place. On Wed. the house was empty so she just ran from one side to the other. I am so blessed to work for such a great family. Nat keeps me laughing all the time and it is so kewl to watch a child grow. She will be 3 in August and when I started she had just turned 2. I am also looking forward to the summer bc her big brother will be home and I can get to know him more. I am planning a lot of fun things for us but I hope my big budda belly does not get in the way. Luckily he is not a big outdoors kid.

The House is really starting to look like a house. I promise to put up pictures soon. In the move we lost our cord that connects the camera to the computer so that is why I have not put up a lot of pictures.

Here is a pic of Cooper getting a tan. He will now go outside by himself for like 10 mins... if he is in the mood.

2009-05-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

I hate pregnancy today... I mean I always dislike it but today loath.

Rash
need to pee again and again
very dizzy

Just wanted to complain, that's all.

2009-05-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

Here is my baby bump at 16 weeks!

Things are well in the casa de Henley. We should be rounding 3rd and coming into home soon on the house remodel. Josh painted the cabinets and now just needs to do the doors after that I will have a working kitchen, Yeah!!

We are in the count down!! In less then a month we will find out the sex of baby henley. Josh and I both think it is a boy but would be just as happy with a girl... WHAT DO YOU THINK??

So far we have done the

Chinese calendar- BOY

Wedding Ring on a String- BOY

Ovulation Prediction- BOY

mothers instinct- BOY

Josh and I got new cell phones, G1's. This is a big deal for me seeing that I am not all that high tech. It is fun! Today I was in the store and thought I wanted to make this banana pudding recipe but could not remember what was in it (it is not just plan pudding it is out of this world amazing banana pudding, thanks Molly) So I just googled the recipe and bought what I needed right there in the store. its great!

In the next few weeks I will put up pictures of the house.

Oh also Josh's brother is coming to live with us in July... we are both so excited. He is so much fun and will be a big help with the baby... Dont know if he knows that part yet!

2009-04-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR FRIENDS WHO HAVE HELPED WITH THE HOUSE. YOU ARE SO APPRECIATED.

Well we are all moved in but the work is not done yet. There is a lot to buy and even more to do. This weekend we are going to get the cabinets painted (hopefully)

We went to the dr and saw our little one kicking and dancing. It was so kewl. (Hope to get the video up soon) We will find out if it is a boy or girl on June 2nd... That is a long time from now.

Pregnancy has gotten better I am pretty much never sick but still tired. However I am starting to feel like a normal person again.

This week I found a box Josh kept all our dating stuff in. As I read the letters I wrote him I realized how much I use to be inthe word and love scripture. It was bitter sweet to know that I have lost that but renewing that the Lord is good and I can have it again. New challenge... fall in love with His word again.

MOVING ON UP...

2009-04-01T13:40:00.001-07:00

we are moving into our house this weekend!!

cant wait!

2009-03-13T06:04:00.000-07:00

SO I thought I would share a little of the house... this is the BEFORE pictures... we have a lot of work before we can even move in.

Our master bath, jetted tub (love it) but wall paper must go!

This is our master room... not much to see

Living room as see from the entry hall. blue tile around fireplace... must go

Formal living and dining (only living shown here)

2009-03-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

Josh and I bought a house this week... its in Corinth and we are so excited. Now comes all the work we have to put in to it!

2009-02-13T21:42:00.000-08:00

2008-11-22T09:12:00.000-08:00

This is my first ever headboard... I am so excited!

And today I am going to my first ever OU game!!

These are my b-day gift to myself before we go to freezing MI

Josh and I celebrating our 2 year anniversary!

... at Mastergrill!

2008-11-12T21:23:00.000-08:00

This is the man God is letting me spend my life with... what a gift

blow out another another candle... it represents 23!

Hottest man alive and he is all mine

Hi daddy!

Us at Nonna's for dinner

Here are a few pic's from my birthday today... I am so blessed. Saturday lunch and presents with my mom. Last night my husband took me to a nice dinner at Grotto in Highland Village, and tonight we went with my dad to NONNA's in Dallas (highly recommended). Then on friday dinner and a movie with good friends... jOsh jokes that I have birthday weeks not days I guess he is right. But none of it could happy without a great family, wonderful friends and my biggest blessing from God my amazing. wonder ful handesome husband. Josh HEnley- he is a gift all year!

Did I tell you we are thinking of buying a home...

2008-10-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

yep its true but the deal breaker (or maybe just the first one) is tomorrow. The foundation guy is coming to inspect the home. So please please pray that the Lord shifted the earth and the home is in one piece bc we are doubtful.

Its so cute so I really hope it works out, either way His plan is P E R F E C T and hopeful we will listen for His ok and not jump into something that is not part of His plan. Cuz I like His plan best every time I try to go my way it goes very bad for me!!

We go way back...

2008-09-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

So in case you did not know Josh and I are high school sweethearts... I know corny!!

Anyway I started up the old high school/ college computer and found a few old pictures and thought I would share.

summer before my 2nd year of college Josh and I went to Mexico with my dad. This was a huge step in our relationship b/c it was our first vacation together and the first time my dad got to spend more then a day or a few hours with Josh. We had been dating maybe a year and a 1/2.
This is the oldest picture... I dont like the picture but it is kind of funny. Josh was in a band and the lead singer really cared about their "image" Josh however did not so I was in charge for dressing him "cool" So a friend and I made some t-shirts hinting to our role in the band. She was the girlfriend of the lead singer and I was the one who dressed Josh. At this point Josh and I were friends and he would never have thought of dating me. I was probably 16 here.
My 1st year in college I was in east texas and Josh was in Ok. I would go visit him and we would go to this beautiful pier with a lighthouse on it. This picture is us on a park bench there and Josh not wanting to take a picture so I am holding his head. I also like this pic bc you can see my charm bracelet that Josh got me for Christmas and he explained why he picked each charm, it was so sweet. I love this pier and I was so sure he would proposed here. He said he thought about it but did not bc he thought I would know what was coming if he took me there and he wanted it to be a surprise.

After Josh and I had been together for about a year and 1/2 we had some pictures taken of us and this was one of them. (ps- this was after my freshman 15 which was actually freshman like 30, dont judge me I had nothing to do in small town east tx)

Most of these are not that old since we were friends for 2 years before we dated for 3 and now we are about to be married for 2. 7 years, who that is crazy. anyway it was a walk down memory lane for me.

Heart for Adoption...

2008-07-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

You wold not have to know me long before knowing my heart for adoption. I came across a few words that touched my heart for this calling in my life.

We are passionate about adoption because God is passionate about adoption. He saved us, by grace, and gave us the spirit of adoption. He also commands us to care for the orphans - James 1:27. This has become a 'life verse' for us - we feel we have been called to grow our family through the spirit of adoption for the glory of our Savior and our great joy!!!
–Blogging parent of 3 adopted children

Adoption: No Better Way to Understand Christianity
How important is the doctrine of uppercase Adoption (i.e. God adopting us)? If you are passionate about lowercase adoption (i.e. couples adopting children), this is an important question to answer. The importance of uppercase Adoption establishes the importance of lowercase adoption. Here’s what J. I. Packer has to say about the question:
“You sum up the whole of New Testament teaching in a single phrase, if you speak of it as a revelation of the Fatherhood of the holy Creator. In the same way, you sum up the whole of New Testament religion if you describe it as the knowledge of God as one’s holy Father. If you want to judge how well a person understands Christianity, find out how much he makes of the thought of being God’s child, and having God as his Father. If this is not the thought that prompts and controls his worship and prayers and his whole outlook on life, it means that he does not understand Christianity very well at all” (J.I. Packer, Knowing God, 182).

“Adoption is the highest privilege that the gospel offers… closeness, affection and generosity are at the heart of this relationship. To be right with god the judge is a great thing, but to be loved & cared for by God the Father is greater” - J.I. Packer

2008-07-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

PRESLEY RENNE HILL IS HERE!!

July 11th, 2008 at 11:32 Presley introduced herself to the world at 7lb 5 oz.

I can’t wait to hold her and watch her grow and most of all spoil her…

what are aunts for?

This is my BF since 3rd grade now she is a mommy!

And she will be a great one!