Test the water...but then DIVE IN!!!

Little T at her first Beach Trip, sitting in the water, checking it all out. You know, that so represents how we approach new things in life as people. We want to try it out, check it all out, sit for a bit and get used to it and then decide if we really want to commit and "dive in"...put yourself out there. Recently I had a friend tell me to take it slow and not trust so easily. You know, I don't agree with that advice and maybe that is why I do get hurt from time to time. I take people at their word and I believe them to be honest and good; until they show me otherwise. For example, I have a new colleague at work who has become a good friend already. I believe that new friends arrive and surface in your life at just the right moment. I am sure you've heard that saying - Some for a reason, some for a season and some for a lifetime. Well I am so fortunate that he and I have become fast friends. Right off the bat it was obvious that we had a lot in common, but even more so, he is genuine, honest and trustworthy. If you have ever worked for people, or with people, who are disingenuous, deceitful and people who betray your trust, you know how very valuable it is to be able to trust someone and know that they truly have your best interest at heart. That is how I feel about him...so thank you Joe for your friendship. I am so glad we are in it all together!! Hi Javi...congrats on your new home!! ;-)

Easter 2007

Easter 2007 - we were tryin to get pics of the kids. They got these soft, big bunnies from some friends of ours, so we were trying to prop them up and get a cute pic. LOL...they just kept slumping over and slipping down; the bunnies and the babies!

2nd year birthday was curious george

1st year birthday was a barnyard bash

AND...I can't believe it's that time again. The twins will be 3 in 3 months!!!!!!! We are thinking of doing a Carnival Theme...with hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, games and of course, possibly a FERRIS WHEEL. Those of you that know us well, know that my son is ADDICTED to Ferris Wheels. I am hoping it all works out. We'll have to wait and see.

Little T - she makes me SMILE!

Little T and her famous smile...it started in the womb!!!

Future Dreams

I have a lot of dreams...about our future as a family mostly. I always wonder when you reach that point...you know, when you no longer have dreams that are for yourself, and now have dreams for the entire family. It's kind of like shopping. I love to shop and used to shop for myself or T. But once we became pregnant (and ever since) I now always shop for the kids. Even when I go specifically to find something for myself, I come home with things for them and not me. When does this occur? This transition? I guess it must be part of the change that happens when you become a parent. Being a parent requires sacrafice. But sometimes I wonder how do we sacrafice and be the parent we need to be, and yet still find the time (emotionally, physically, etc...) to maintain our own "personhood?" There are some generations of parents who would say "once you become a parent, you lay down your life and you don't exist any longer." While I understand that perspective, I think it's important that we parents maintain some sense of self and try to take care of our own person, as well as be a good, sacraficing parent. I am just still trying to find that balance. I think T and I are good at taking time for us, going on dates periodically, etc...but I think we both need to provide independant time for the other to take time away, JUST FOR THEMSELVES, no one else! I am going to try and work on this.

P.S. That cute pic above is just for kicks and giggles!! ;0) Little T was laughing so hard and it just makes me smile.

Here is Little T and her friend playing dress up. They, along with their other little friends, came parading through the living room in numorous different outfits. They had a blast! I especially like "B"s look - the pacifier, the blue dress and of course, he didn't forget his axe! All of the elements for a mighty good time!

Change is constant! AGGHH!

The one thing I can count on is change...and yet knowing that does NOT make it easier. We are in a state of flux with the kids...a state of transition. They are not babies anymore, yet are not really big kids. They are toddlers and they want their independance.

We have overcome one hurdle, I am just so happy to announce: the kids are going to sleep on their own. No more rocking! Thank you God! I love to rock and snuggle, and we sometimes do this for one song after story time, but then we tuck them into their beds and they go to sleep on their own. I know, I know...many parents accomplish this a lot earlier...but it just never happened for us. UNTIL NOW! YEA!

We are still working on the potty training and the pacifier...one hurdle at a time darn it! ;-)

Pound the Water With Me and We'll Keep on Keepin On

You know I talked with some friends tonight and we discussed some of our "issues" in life that keep trippin us up. Sometimes it's a blessing to be self aware, and other times not so much. Sometimes I wish I was one of those people who truly doesn't have a clue...they seem so happy. The grass is always greener though, right. Anyway, so I am realizing that I am someone who really likes my vices because they work. They give me comfort, they make me feel better, they take away whatever fear and anxiety I may have been feeling, etc. They work! But, what I am realizing is that there is always a cost. Most times I am in denial about that part...but I feel that my conversation tonight really removed the veil...well, ripped it of really...and I am glad. In the end, I am glad that I see myself and even though it's not always pleasant, I have the power to grow and change. Those happy, clueless people, well they don' t have any power and they'll always be happy, but also always clueless...but I have the opportunity to deepen my own sense of self, my relationships with others and my offering to our world. I guess the best part about talking with good friends about real stuff is knowing that I am not alone. So, I will take the journey (yet again) one step a time. You coming with?