Redemption

Christmas, 2011

2011-12-29T09:17:00.012-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year... there was definitely enough going on, but the month of December - though it flew by - did not see ridiculously busy as it sometimes does. It was so much fun to see things through the eyes of the girls - Ella especially - as she can grasp more and more the excitement of the season. It definitely makes it that much more exciting for us as well, and I enjoyed every minute. Here are just a few photos of some of our favorite moments...

Reading the Christmas story...

Always time to give the hair a little twirl...

Our one and only family photo - Ella's preschool Christmas program.

Grandmo and Grandpo

Getting a little tired of the photo shoots by the time it was Papa & Grandma's turn.

Sledding down the Children's Museum slide!

Rethinking the desire to visit Santa...

Finally realized she better talk to him... or risk getting NOTHING for Christmas!!

The End Result.

Christmas Cookies!

Surprisingly brave at the nursing home!

Guess which one did the decorating, and which one did the eating!

I rest my case.

Out of the Loop???

2011-10-22T01:00:00.002-04:00

It suddenly occured to me that there are people out there who do not belong to Facebook... So for those of you who may be out of the loop... the girls had a message to share:

Doing Her Thing

2011-10-10T18:42:00.002-04:00

Claire's been taking a little gymnastics class with Mommy. It's been fun - and enlightening to see exactly what a challenge it is to keep this little ball of energy focused on one thing for a period of time. She's trying - bless her heart - but so far I've found that 20 minutes is about the maximum amount of time the poor thing can devote to following any form of organized direction. After that it's all over...

Guess which one is doing it "right"?

Ball pit!

Running and Jumping! Her favorite combination!

"Peek-a-Boo!"

Waiting for stickers... the only time she'll sit still!

1st Day of Preschool

2011-09-26T15:29:00.002-04:00

Just a few weeks ago we released our baby girl into the wild. It's really just Preschool... but having her out of sight and out of my control for 3 entire hours, two days a week, is both liberating and terrifying. She absolutely loves it and we love hearing all about her new adventures!

Family "Relocation" - Done Right!

2011-08-24T13:25:00.009-04:00

SO... last week, (OK... last MONTH)... we embarked on our 2nd Annual Michigan "Relocation". We were determined to make it better than the last disaster, and I'm happy to announce that we were most successful! It helped a great deal that the girls had matured a year, the napping schedule was far less constricting, and we were better prepared and closer to the beach this time around. The yellow house in the photo above was the place we rented - and it was perfect for us. Just a couple short blocks and we were at a private beach. We grilled, ate on the porch, watched movies, and just did exactly what we wanted... when we wanted to. We had such a good time, that while it was still in many ways a family "relocation", we could honestly call this adventure... a vacation as well. And we cannot wait to go back! Here comes the photo album!

Coloring at the Silver Beach Carousal.

Pizza dough to keep us entertained while we wait for pizza!

A little too much waterpark for such a small girl...

Ella LOVED her bunk bed...

Eating breakfast on a lazy morning...

My animal lover...

"Race ya!"

Popcorn and Cannons... why not?

"Back off sista!"

Best seat in the house.

Getting used to the water...

First taste of cotton candy... for some crazy reason neither of them were fans...

Petting the baby foal.

After a 1.5 year boycott of the merry-go-round... the joy is restored...

Might as well jump!
...and jump some more!

Is this terrifying to anybody else??

Ella Johnson, DVM

The actual awakening...

Berry picking - or eating - with Daddy.

The more accurate depiction.

"Too hard."

2011-07-13T20:04:00.004-04:00

Swim lessons have taken a turn for the worse. We were doing well there for awhile... but that was quite possibly because we really weren't "doing", much of anything. There's a new instructor in the pool and Miss Katie is not one for coddling. Ella had the weekend off and was no doubt praying we'd forget about the next session of lessons altogether. Unfortunately for her, I did not - and Monday brought forth a whole new set of challenges. It seems Miss Katie actually wants her to learn to swim, which inevitably means complete immersion... and this is not something my daughter is the least bit interested in.

Her personality is becoming more and more evident these days... and there are a few key things that make her stand out.

#1) She must be prepared at all times. She always prefers routine, but if you're going to switch things up on her - she must know ahead of time if there is any hope of making it through a situation drama-free. (If there is such a thing). If we talk her through something that is going to happen - over and over again - it seems to make a world of difference to her.

#2) She is paralyzed without trust, and outgoing as can be with it. Last swimming session there were 4 instructors in the pool with her group. All of which she seemed to bond with. Suddenly 1 of them is replaced with another, who also happens to insist on pushing her in ways she doesn't want to be pushed... and we're back to square 1 complete with tears, excuses of needing more suntan lotion on, or band aids that "might come off if they get too wet".

#3) She is a fabulous bargainer. 5 bites of asparagus can be negotiated down to 1 PLUS a Popsicle, before we even knew what hit us.

I've reassured Miss Katie, that I completely support her desire to force Ella out of her box a bit... but I have to admit that watching my baby pulled completely under water, than brought to the surface, sobbing hysterically - look up at me and say "It's too hard, Mommy"... pretty much ripped my heart out. It's so hard to know where the line is between respecting their insecurities and pushing them to work past them. What's fascinating to me, is how some kids seem to be born with tremendous confidance, while others have so little. We had a little chat about why sometimes God (or Mommy), asks us to do things we really, really don't want to do, because it makes us stronger in the end. Her fine bargaining skills did their best to convince me that "when she gets a little bigger", she'll be able to do such things...

Here's to hoping she notices a growth spurt in the morning... because Miss Katie will be waiting on her tomorrow.

Posts Galore!!!

2011-07-10T02:00:00.002-04:00

WooHoo! This could be my record!! Scroll down for post after post of long-awaited, nail-biting updates from the Johnson Family!!!

Claire

2011-07-10T01:51:00.003-04:00

Does it even seem remotely possible that Claire will turn 2 in just 2 months??? What a crazy couple of years it has been! This little girl is the sweetest, funniest, most affectionate, headache you'll ever meet. :) I know without a doubt that the Lord sent this child to me to ensure that if I ever at any point thought that I had even a remote clue about parenting... I was wrong. I have been searching all over for the instruction manual that must have been misplaced upon her arrival... but it has yet to turn up.

First of all... Claire gives the best. hugs. ever. Truly. They are the sweetest. And not only that, but her timing - is usually impeccable. I've decided she's got to be one of the smartest toddlers I've ever met. Not because she can speak in full sentences (she can, but we can't understand a word of them)... but because she's figured out how to use affection to get herself out of trouble. Place the child in a time-out, and as soon as you go to get her out, she will (with solemn face), plant the most tender of kisses right on your lips. than throw her arms around your neck and squeeze for as long as you will let her. I'm quite certain she does this to avoid the lecture that inevitably follows, and I will admit she is successful on many occasions. I hold back giggles every time she solemnly mouths, "sorry Mommy", and then, yes, another hug.

Claire, unlike her big sister, has been sick a LOT. We discovered early on that she had a lactose intolerance (we originally thought is was a milk allergy)... and since then it seems it has been one thing after another. This past winter she came down with RSV and battled several ear infections. We finally had ear tubes placed a month ago, and not long after she contracted Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease. Once we finally got that out of her system, she somehow managed to pick up an awful intestinal virus that has taken us 2 weeks to beat. It's crazy to me how one child can have a super-human immune system, while the other catches every bug that blows her way. Poor Claire just can't catch a break. You know you've visited your Pediatrician too much when the receptionist recognizes your voice when you call to make an appointment. Claire's so used to visiting that the second they call her name, she runs through the door and jumps right up on the scale. *sigh* I'm hoping that a 2nd Birthday brings with it some physical maturity that helps her fight things off a little better. Now if we can just make it through the 2 year molars...

Here's a few shots of the little cherub who now answers to the name, "Trouble".

Summer Days

2011-07-10T00:03:00.000-04:00

In spite of the illnesses that won't quit for Claire, we are having a really great summer. Maybe it's because we are coming out of the longest winter I have ever experienced, but I can honestly say I am enjoying each and every one of the little perks that summer brings. The workload with kids seems to be cut in half... mainly because it takes us about 15 minutes to get loaded up into the car instead of the usual 45 - just because we wear less clothes! And being outside is just an all around happier thing. :) I'm thinking we should pack up and move to a warmer climate - at least until our children can dress and entertain themselves.

She wasn't particularly thrilled about the idea, but Ella has been taking swimming lessons - and is definitely becoming more comfortable with the water. It did take a small bribe - I mean reward. Note the following picture with her long awaited Arial Princess Doll:

Grabbing candy at the 4th of July Parade!

Chillin'

Ella's 3 Year Photos

2011-07-09T22:40:00.000-04:00

I snagged a fabulous Groupon deal and had a great photographer take these shots for Ella's 3rd Birthday... as well as some Easter ones of the girls. Mommy even got caught in a few!

Sisters

2011-07-09T22:30:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things these days, is watching the relationship between these two develop. They are so different in most ways... yet so alike in one... DRAMA. There is no doubt they are females! I even question whether or not they may have entered some rare and bizarre form of early PMS! Overall however, there is such a precious balance of personality between them. Ella is cautious, a rule-follower (most days), and prefers to read or watch movies. While Claire is impulsive, not-so-much a rule-follower, and can rarely be found sitting still unless a bag of chips is involved. Being so close in age, they seem to constantly compete for my attention - but it's amazing to me how in spite of that, they absolutely adore eachother. We anticipate several benefits to their relationship and personality differences... one being that Claire will likely play a key role in bringing Ella out of her shell throughout life, and another being that Ella will likely be the one we count on for the "inside scoop" on her sister's escapades.

It kills me that the days pass so quickly and they are growing so fast... and at the same time, I absolutely can't wait to see what life brings for them. And while we most definitely did NOT plan to have babies 16 months apart, I can honestly say now that I LOVE that we did. Such a neat thing for the two of them... I just hope and pray that they always feel that way.

Easter, 2011

2011-07-09T21:50:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to Me!

2011-07-09T21:30:00.000-04:00

Let's be honest here. There are days when this picture holds more truth than I care to admit... :) But in spite of how crazy it gets... I've never been happier... never felt more fulfilled... I love them to death. Thanks girls, for reminding me daily of the things that really matter in life. I love you more than you'll ever know.

Ella

2011-07-09T21:00:00.001-04:00

Well, I did my best to keep it from happening... but in spite of all my efforts, Ella turned 3 years old a week ago (er... 3 months ago, when I started writing this post). It has been as they say... a fast and furious transition from toddler hood to "little girl".... emphasis on the "girl" part of that. :) She adores anything and everything pink, princessy, and fancy. She's been taking ballet for the last couple of months and loves every minute of it... (mostly because she gets to wear a tutu)! We cannot say for certain that the Joffrey Ballet School is in her future...but assuming we can soon convince her that the mirrors in her dance studio are meant to reflect her flawless pirouettes and plies, rather than the length of her tongue, I'd say her chances are pretty darn good!

Turning 3 brought many new freedoms and experiences... including her very own "big girl bed". I'm quite confidant that she would have stayed in her crib for another 6 years without ever considering the possibility of crawling out - but I do think she was gradually catching on to the suspicion that most kids her age were no longer being held against their will. While putting her to bed one night after a visit to some friend's who were already in their own real beds, she politely said: "Mommy, can you take these bars down?". Busted. The transition has been an easy one for her and more importantly, us. :) In fact, the poor, tentative, yet content child has yet to realize that she could actually come and go as she pleases... and continues to wait in her bed until we come to get her. (Case and point: yesterday during her nap she yelled: "Mommy, can you come get me out of this bed???") Here's to hoping that lasts throughout high school. ;-)

So Happy (VERY) Belated Birthday to my girly-girl. We're in no hurry - but somehow at the same time, we can't help wonder what you will one day become. I'm guessing you'll never be too fond of camping, or contact sports... but your sweet, sensitive spirit, love of art, reading, and baking... will undoubtedly lead you to do some wonderful things.

Post-Recital, with Grandma.

I have no idea where she gets it...

Yay! Princesses!!! (Can you see the reluctant joy in my face???)

Even Claire's getting in on the bowling action!

Easter Egg Hunt #3 with her cousins at the family birthday party!

Mommy was all excited for the "Fancy Nancy" birthday theme!..

Than she told me she wanted a Princess Party...

First Mani/Pedi!!

A fun girls outing with Grandma and Aunt Jenn!

Happy Birthday Ella! Your 1st Dollhouse!

In Case You Wondered What They Look Like...

2011-05-28T04:40:00.001-04:00

CANCUN!

2011-02-11T13:53:00.008-05:00

It seems like it was 6 months ago... but it was actually just a couple weeks ago that Eric and I found ourselves living the high life, soaking up some rays while being lavishly served morning until night, at an adults only, all-inclusive resort (emphasis on the adult's only part), in Cancun, Mexico. Papa and Grandma bravely and selflessly took on a week alone with the girls so we could enjoy some time away. It was the first true vacation we have taken alone - since our Honeymoon, which I'm sure would be said for most of our friends with young families. I can honestly say it was the most relaxing vacation I have ever had. There was little to do aside from lounging, and that was A-OK with us! With the exception of a short shopping trip to a nearby town, and a snorkeling adventure, we had no desire to leave such a fabulous resort. There was 24hr all-included room service, food pretty much everywhere you turned (even a soft serve ice cream dispenser by the pool!!!), and pretty much anywhere you sat down someone was bound to show up and ask if they could bring you something!! We soaked up every bit of it that we could, and came away feeling grateful that we were able to take such a wonderful "time-out", knowing that our girls were more than cared for. I learned how to take deep-breaths again, we both re-learned the art of sitting and "just reading", and enjoyed recalling the days (albeit the FEW days), when it was "just the two of us". In the end, we enjoyed it thoroughly, but only because we knew that the "real world" and all that completed who we have become, was waiting patiently for us back home. I believe wholeheartedly that we will be better parents... if we make a point of taking these "time outs", sporadically in the future. My husband reassures me this 5 star vacation does not re-appear in his foreseeable financial future, but lucky for him... God blessed and balanced him with a not-so-practical wife. :)

View from our balcony...

The only town we visited. Great people watching, and very fascinating... but very Americanized. Paid more for my conditioner there than I would have at home!

Tables and chairs in the pool... why not!

The icky Iguanas lived amongst us...

The beach was gorgeous! You could walk out forever into the water and never step on ONE thing! Not even seaweed!!!

Setting out on our snorkeling adventure!

Bottoms Up!

I drank in a mouthful of salt water just as he was taking this shot...

Eric had a hard time relaxing.

Our balcony...

This the picture I plan to use to remind him when it's time to go back next year... :)

I Can Do Better

2011-01-08T21:40:00.029-05:00

I Can. I have no trouble keeping my status up-to-date on Facebook, making sure that I shower daily (well - almost daily), and getting my kids down for their naps and bedtime at the appropriate time each day. So why do I have such trouble keeping this blog updated??!! AHHHH!! I will hate myself for slacking one day so I now publicly pledge as my "New Year's Resolution" to DO BETTER!

So much has been missed - but thankfully there are pictures - somewhere - documenting the things I cannot think of at the moment. I will dig them up... sometime soon. Heck - maybe even right now. After all, throwing photos up on a blog requires FAR less work than dreaming up profound things to say in a given moment. And so, without further ado... may I present... the last 6 months, and what may very likely be the longest post in HISTORY!!:

January, 2011
A Visit with Boppo & Nana

Ella has always been a little scared (OK... completely terrified), of my Grandfather. So we thought this time if he worked a little of his magic on the piano, her love of music might help her to warm up to him a bit.

Probably the closest she's ever gotten to him willingly!

Claire getting in on the action. She, unlike her sister, fears no one... and no thing...

Christmas, 2010

"No Claire... all this STUFF is MINE!"

Making off with the loot...

Our animal lover... she can't get enough.

Santa really came!!

Who knew chocolate milk scores you even better in the gift department!

A Birthday Party for Jesus!

He really is starting to grow on them...

REALLY not sure about that guy...

Baking, Baking and MORE Baking!!

A Gingerbread Masterpiece (if I do say so myself...)

November, 2010
Growing...

What is this stuff anyway??

For some, it's really not fun to stand outside and freeze your butt off!

Carson and Cooper's 3rd Birthday Party!

Ella's 1st drawing of a smiley face...

Wood chips are by far the best part about the park.

October 31st, 2010
Halloween

Photo attempt #3,621 at getting a shot of the kids together in their costumes.

Best. Holiday. EVER!

Our Ballerinas

Making pizzas with Aunt Kara!

Step 1: Grab fist full of corn.

Step 2) Dump it all on your sister's head.

Get me out!

"YEEHAW!!"

October 2nd, 2010
Happy Birthday Ricky!

The tree we planted at his new grave site.

Peace finally, for me... to have a "place" more local to visit and remember. Doesn't look like much for now, but it quite honestly - is everything. A long time coming... and I am grateful.

A very serious cake decorator.

Happy 6th Birthday Ricky! Wish you were here to blow out your own candles and play awhile!

September 24th, 2010
Apple Orchard / Pumpkin Patch Day!

A very tired baby... after a very long day...

WOOHOO!! I did it!! And if you made it to the bottom of this CONGRATULATIONS!!! Thanks for catching up with me!! It took an entire afternoon and my husband wishes I had spent the time doing something "useful"... but I feel SOOOOOOO much better!!!

Happy 1st Birthday Claire Bear!!

2010-09-02T14:12:00.000-04:00

(OK, OK... I'm pathetically late in posting this - but you'll note that the date reveals nothing of the sort... so for the sake of my poor, neglected, second born... pretend you are reading this 2 months ago when it actually happened! Thank you.)

Claire is 1!!!!! We had a fabulous Baby Einstein birthday complete with Caterpillar cake!! (Who knew Mommy was born to be a cake decorator!!) Claire Bear... the year has been a whirlwind (thanks to your adventurous and feisty disposition)... but we are absolutely loving watching you grow and learn. While talking was your sister's early talent, yours is most definitely ambulation. :) It's hard to keep up with you, but you are so much fun to watch! We love you!!!

Mmmm... not bad!

Let's just cut out a step...

I thought it was gonna be chocolate??!!!!

The blue is my favorite...

It's freezing out here and someone took my clothes off!!

What? You got a problem with blue lipstick??

New Experiences

2010-08-23T21:09:00.006-04:00

Boat Rides and the Fair!! So many new and fun things to do!!

Our 1st "Relocation"

2010-07-14T13:22:00.010-04:00

We took our first family "vacation" to Michigan this past week. It was a good "test run" as I like to call it, full of big ups and downs. Eric and I learned within the first 30 minutes that what others say is true... Vacations with small children - are hardly "vacations" as most have come to know them. The most appropriate re-naming that I have heard for this sort of event is a "Relocation". There is little resting and it is about as far from relaxation as you can get. Basically you just pick up and move life - to another location. It's actually a whole lot more challenging than just staying at home - but the memories and experiences make it all worth it. All in all... we had a great time and can't wait to try it all over again next year - with life lessons engraved in our memory!!!

Several Birds - One Stone

2010-07-07T13:46:00.003-04:00

Since I can't seem to get my act together with regular posts these days, I mustered the motivation to throw a couple months of photos into one little video for your viewing pleasure! (OK... mostly for our records and because I knew Ella would be MORE than tickled to see pictures of herself set to some of her all time favorite songs!! :)

God Bless America

2010-07-03T02:40:00.008-04:00

Happy Independance Day!

(and some random cell phone pics for your viewing pleasure...)

I Can't Hear Myself...

2010-05-18T21:36:00.001-04:00

I'm afraid to search back through to find when my last REAL blog post was written. Not that the posts over the last 2 years haven't been worthwhile or meaningful, but they have become quite a bit different than the reflective journals I once spent time writing.

The truth is... while I love my life - my kids, my husband - all the blessings that I have been given in such a short time... I can't hear myself think anymore. My entire day is consumed with meeting each and every need my girls have, and desperately trying to meet even a couple of my husband's! I found very quickly that two kids so close in age was FAR more than twice the work of one. It's a fabulous day if they share a nap and in that time maybe, just maybe, I can throw in some laundry, clean up the kitchen, fix dinner, or Praise God sit down at the actual computer (rather than my iPhone) to check my email.

I know it sounds like I'm complaining (OK... I probably am) - believe me I know that many would give anything to be in my position - and MANY have it far more chaotic with more kids and more demands - but regardless from my own perspective, this phase of my life is........ tough. Last night after getting Ella to bed, I promptly handed Eric the monitor blaring with her cries and pleads for "2 more minutes of rocking" and less than convincing "have to go potty's"... got in my car, and drove away from it all. It's not the constant demands or neediness, as much as the fact that it's hard to not lose yourself when everyone wants a piece of you. I'm a pretty deep thinker... I have always analyzed and processed things - especially myself - constantly... and there just isn't time for that anymore.

Don't get me wrong... I wouldn't trade my place in life for anything - but driving around last night it was amazing to me how absent my own thoughts have been, and how starved a Mom can get for any amount of time to call her own. I never felt this way when it was just Ella and I... had things gone on with Ricky longer than they had I'm sure I would have... but now with 2 demanding babies at different stages on needs... I'm definitely getting my butt kicked on a daily basis!

What I would give to master the art of balancing it all... but I think for now much of it revolves around surrendering. I heard a friend say once that she finally resolved within herself that these years were simply not about her... and that was how it was supposed to be. I like that... but in the back of my mind, while I truly enjoy each and every moment of my girl's lives, I know that I would enjoy them to the fullest with my own identity intact. It's something I want them to learn as well... so who better to teach them, than myself.

:) Perhaps it's a good thing I don't have the time to write these "real" blog posts anymore... they aren't nearly as uplifting as those adorable photos. Pictures don't always tell the whole story, do they? Don't worry... the smiles, laughs, and irresistable cuteness are most definitely the real thing. I never knew how much fun it would be to watch your own baby learn how to be - a person. I can't think of anything better. They are worth each and every sacrifice - even when you want to put them out on the curb for the nearest passerby - or just your husband when he gets home from work. And yes... I know that "one day I'll look back and long for the days of diaper changes, rocking, whining (I doubt this one), etc...". Believe me... I'm trying to treasure each and every little thing they throw at me. It does go so fast... yet another reason why despite how much staying at home with the girls can wear me down, I am SO grateful that I am able to work casually and spend as much time with them as possible. I wouldn't change that for the world... (most days... :).

So that pretty much sums up the reflection. Ironic I had to come to work to get that written! :) And because I still can't NOT post the million photo highlights of this past month... scroll on down for the good stuff. :)

Happy Mother's Day to Me!

2010-05-18T21:33:00.001-04:00

Claire - 8 Months

2010-05-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

If you haven't caught on already, this is our little firecracker. She was sent to us so that we would appreciate all the more the ease and tentative nature of our firstborn, and no doubt to instill empathy for the parents out there who are all too familiar with "the strong-willed child". Out of the two... we're pretty sure we know who will be sneaking out, and who will be ratting out. I can almost guarantee which one we will find climbing trees and who will hide away in their room reading books... Claire will probably crawl out of her crib long before Ella even realizes she's sleeping behind bars, and she will most certainly require those buckle restraint things they put in high chairs and shopping carts. (Ella always thought they were there as some sort of puzzle entertainment... I figured the same.) Claire refuses to be rocked and rarely settles down for a snuggle. But place in her in crib with her teddy bear and music and she'll smile happily and be asleep in a minute. She's pulling herself up to a standing position and trying to take steps while holding our hand. (Ella had yet to even start crawling at this point). She's already fallen and hit her head more times than I can count, prefers regular food to that BABY bottle most days, and is already doing her darnedest to show her older sister who's boss. All in all she's definitely given Mommy a run for her money pretty much day 1... but I can honestly say in the same breath that she is and probably always will be a LOAD of fun. Mixed in with all the strength and determination however, is such a sweet and happy spirit. We can't get enough of her and love the added dynamic she is bringing to our family!

2 Years Old!

2010-05-11T14:33:00.012-04:00

Miss Ella turned the big 2 a couple weeks ago!!! We took a trip to the zoo with our new membership thanks to Grandma and Papa Brunsting's birthday present... saw Elmo Live, and had our very own Elmo Birthday Party. Good times! She is ridiculously fun these days (well... MOST days)... has quite the vocabulary and will try to say just about everything. She is particularly good at self disciplining herself and her sister... "Sit down Ella..."... "Ella!!! Why you throw Elmo out of the crib???"... "Ella???? Want a time out???? Want a time out Ella????". It is hard to keep a straight face much of the time...

We recently conquered potty training with a 3 day crash course... and I'm thrilled to say that even though it actually took us 5-6 days, it was a total success! Good thing too because I would have been TICKED if I had gone through the all the stress of those first 2 days for nothing!!! Yikes! But turns out it was WELL worth it to have the milestone behind us. A little more work when we're out and about - but she's been doing awesome.
Ella is our Timid Genious in the family. She knows her ABC's, colors, most shapes, and counts to 16. It is amazing to me how she picks up on things and commits them to memory. She also sings constantly - my favorite characteristic of hers... I know one day I will miss the medleys of Sunday School songs and mispronounced words terribly. Ella is the timid one... she's afraid of... well... everything. Fleas and flies especially. New situations take some coaxing - but we're pretty sure her little sister will help her conquer some of these fears.
I seemed to have forgotten to take many pictures of the actual Birthday on my camera so I'm waiting for friends and family to share their lot (hint, hint)... In the meantime... here are a few of her other highlights...

Crack Kills

"Is that a bug??"

A very sweet big sister

"What??"

Ella and Isie having a grand time with the watering can...

Sporting my new panties and washing my hands...

Tentatively removing the sprinkles...

Grandma B. made my fabulous cake!!

A little bit star-struck...

"You need something??"

Our dear friend, Hopey...

She Just Keeps Growing...

2010-04-13T20:56:00.013-04:00

Today she crawled into the kitchen... opened up a cabinet and tried to take the stuff out. Yesterday she attempted to open the fireplace doors... (something her big sister to this day does not even know is possible). Farewell my sweet immobile baby... hello TROUBLE!!! It's a good thing you're so stinkin' CUTE!! :)

Don't miss the Easter photos below!!!

Easter 2010

2010-04-13T20:31:00.011-04:00

So... pretend I actually took these pictures ON Easter instead of dressing the girls up a week later to take the shots I should have taken the day they were actually wearing them!!!

Favorite Spring Shots

2010-04-06T15:23:00.020-04:00

Funny how much time I spend wishing I had more time... There are so many things I want to catch up on, so many things I want to write down before I forget they ever happened. I daydream throughout the chaos of baby books that are all caught up, photos that are enlarged and proudly displayed on the walls, emails and cards I finally sent off, and housekeeping that continuously stays in order. Perhaps if I spent less time dreaming of these things...

Well... life in our home is flying by. My oldest is just about to turn 2... my youngest now 7 months.

Such a big girl now sitting in a real high chair!!

Ella and Bogey - the horse - I mean DOG, that lives down the street! This kid LOVES dogs!!

Walkin' down to see some ducks. (Elmo in tow of course)

Eric began his new job at Medco nearly a month ago. We couldn't be happier about the whole situation... a 5 minute commute... 8am-5pm M-F... more time with the family... lower stress... less pressure (for now)... He is definitely a happier man. We are just so thankful that God provided this change for him after a very challenging 10 months at Kroger. 13 hour shifts on your feet without breaks should just not be...

Can you say braces?

Apparently they didn't enjoy the Home and Patio show as much as we did.

Ella will be 2 at the end of this month. I call her my parrot... as she likes to repeat every single thing I say. We are amazed every single day by her vocabulary - and are contemplating home school since I'm not really sure what she'll have left to learn by the time Kindergarten rolls around! She is a Mommy's girl... very sweet and so much fun. I think having the opportunity to view life through the eyes of your child has to be one of the greatest gifts ever. Every flower, bird, airplane, and bubble are simply amazing. Sidewalk chalk is the greatest invention ever, and any ailment is cured by a handful of grapes.

A new deluxe kitchen. (Score 1 again for Craigslist - can you tell I'm an addict??)

Cutest picture EVER (even with the puke on the chin)!

I don't know about everyone else out there but we are LOVING the fact that spring has finally arrived!!! Don't remember the winter ever lasting so long before I had kids!! It's amazing what a few flowers and some warm temperatures can do for the soul!! Even a 2 year old's!!!! We purchased a fabulous bike trailer (thank you Craigs List), and had a fence installed just last week - so we're officially SET for summer! I really can't get over what freedom a fence brings when you have a small dog and some kids... Now - we just open the door and who or whatever spills out onto the patio is of absolutely no concern!!! It's a giant play-pen, and I'm SO grateful we were finally able to get it done!

The trouble-makers. No doubt planning their escape.

Claire is proving herself to be the firecracker that I suspected she would be. At 7 months she is crawling like a pro and couldn't be happier with her new found freedom. (Wish I could share in the enthusiasm). She has wasted no time in exploring the things that she's only been able to stare at for the last several months... and I fear we will be stepping up on the baby-proofing this time around. This child knows what she wants - and it's usually paper. :) It's pretty obvious who the "go-getter" will be between these two girls... and as scary as that is - I really can't wait to see how they grow in their relationship. I'd be willing to bet $$ that Claire will be crawling out of her crib long before the idea ever crosses Ella's mind... and I can also tell you who will be ratting the other out on an hourly basis. :) So fun to see their personalities emerge.

Apparently the Elmo obsession does not extend to self-imitation.

An introduction to grass.

Digging her new "ride".

I am managing to keep my head above water while finding myself significantly outnumbered at home most days. We have said over and over since Miss Claire joined the family that 2 is so much more than even twice the work. I had prepared myself for quite the challenge - but still underestimated how difficult it would be to manage the daily tasks at home, with 2 small ones. Lately, I'm coming to accept that if I want time for myself to read, work-out, or just hear myself think - it must happen early in the morning. THAT discipline is a work in progress... but I think I'm getting there. In spite of even the toughest moments... it's more than obvious that these two are worth it.

Finally found a good use for this baby sister thing...

Ella's Medley

2010-03-03T20:52:00.002-05:00

What? You wanna see more of them???

2010-02-22T13:54:00.011-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

"Sure wish IIIII had a Valentine's Doggie from Grandma..."

"Thanks Claire! Don't mind if I do!!"

Claire: "Oh NO you DON'T!"

Their first fight...

Trouble in the making...

Look alike?? Not so much...

Whoever said cats and mice were supposed to be enemies?

Gotta love those prunes...

And allow me one moment to brag on my brilliant child... MIT here she comes!!

Winter

2010-02-13T14:01:00.010-05:00

The sun finally came out and the wind stopped blowing for a couple days so we ventured out of hibernation! My not-so-adventurous little girl surprised us with quite a bit of enthusiasm for sledding and snowballs.... so much fun!

Claire... chillin' indoors. Playing in the snow will have to wait until next year!!

Here's a little video sample of our outdoor fun. Note her inability to differentiate between a slushy footprint and Chick-fil-A waffle fries... Probably not something we should be proud of. And you gotta love the effort to maneuver despite being dressed up like the Stay Puff Marshmallow Man!

Ella's Snow Slide from Meghan Johnson on Vimeo.

Claire Elise - 5 Months

2010-02-02T17:11:00.014-05:00

5 months have come and gone since this sweet baby entered our lives... she's laughing, rolling, eating, and puking just like a real baby now. We're entering what is one of my many favorite ages - where the newborn suddenly becomes a cute roly poly human being - complete with personality and charm. Claire has a sweet temperament, and has been quite the chatter box for some time now. I'm guessing she will be a little more outgoing - and although we are praying against it - possibly more of a dare devil than her big sister. She loves watching her big sister - hates being alone - jumps so much in her Jumperoo we're sure she's going to break it - and rarely fails to give you a smile when you need one.

This past Sunday we had Claire dedicated at church.

My pretty French dress. Thanks Aunt Susie!

Tired of Dedication Day...

And because I love to see how much they look (or don't look) alike... here's a 5 month comparison shot!

Claire

Ella

Jumping Naps

2010-01-22T16:29:00.003-05:00

2010 So Far...

2010-01-21T18:06:00.000-05:00

We are having so much fun watching the relationship between Ella and Claire develop. Ella really adores her little sister - for now. She now asks to "have her" on a regular basis... and Claire seems to tolerate the awkward attempt her sister makes at holding her. This morning Ella heard Claire cry out on the monitor and immediately headed for the stairs announcing, "I'll get her"! And last week, when I brought Claire downstairs to where Ella was playing with Daddy... she happily greeted her with, "Good Morning Sister"!! I have no doubt one day there will be much screaming and yelling over toys and maybe even boyfriends... but for now... they are simply adorable.

Bonding over Baby Einstein... already. (I'm not ashamed).

Pooped herself out on the jumperoo! Poor thing!

Too cute.

Whasssthat???

Ewwwww... GROSS!!!

No WAY are you touching me after that display!!

It's Time

2010-01-07T14:17:00.005-05:00

I've been debating for quite some time now about whether or not Ricky's website should remain up and running. I'll be honest, even though my posts and updates on it have grown fewer and farther between, I just haven't been able to bring myself to stop payments and let it go. Just last week however, I found out that they now can convert your website into book form...

...and that was all I needed to hear.

Every journal entry I made... every comment left... every picture posted... I can have in print - to keep forever. And now I'm very much at peace with taking it all down. My thoughts and memories of him will inevitably be strewn all over this blog from time to time, so it in no way means that I am ending my ability to reflect "out loud". I'm simply accepting the reality that a chapter has closed. I'm going to leave it up for one last week - so if you would like to leave a final comment or maybe just click through one last time, feel free. What a treasure it was, and will always be to me...

You can click on the website link underneath his picture to the right, or just below here. The "littlemanricky" domain no longer exists.

http://www.babyjellybeans.com/web/do/site/home?ID=40560

Christmas - 2009

2010-01-02T18:31:00.003-05:00

Winter is Here!

2009-12-22T14:10:00.014-05:00

Christmas is coming fast and furious, and we've gotten some good snow lately to go right along with it! In between baking and shopping we managed to find some time to see what this white stuff is all about. Ella seems to like it... for a little while anyway. She and Daddy attempted to build a snowman yesterday... things started out great, but 5 minutes later Daddy was on his own and Ella had had enough! It was all worth it in the end... she even insisted on having her high chair in plain sight of our little "man" out in the backyard for breakfast this morning. A couple days ago we went to Christmas at the Trader's Point Creamery!!! A little cold - but a visit with REAL Reindeer made it ALL worth it!!

Yikes!
"A ball made out of SNOW??!!"

Like it...Like it...

Hate it!... Hate it!...

The finished masterpiece!

Santa 2009

2009-12-17T14:45:00.003-05:00

She's apparently still not a big fan... For Claire however, the jury is still out.

Santa 2008

Sisters

2009-12-08T16:12:00.006-05:00

These two are really starting to notice each other, and it's pretty stinkin' cute!

3 Months Already!

2009-12-02T10:50:00.018-05:00

They say it goes fast... turns out it goes even faster with the second! Claire is 3 months old today and I figured I better blog about since I'm failing at documenting everything else in her life!! Her sweet personality is slowly coming out - even got a couple little giggles out of her yesterday! She's not quite as independent and content as her big sister... basically wants nothing to do with hanging out by herself during her waking hours. But I figure that's because she somehow knows that if I could get away with plopping her in a swing for 3 hours at a stretch - sadly, I probably would! No... little Claire knows that she must take advantage of bonding with Mommy while she can... Thankfully, she is a great sleeper. She's napping in the morning for a couple hours... again in the afternoon for 4-4 1/2 hours!!! And sleeping through the night as well. Such a good girl. No wonder she insists on one on one time when she is awake!!

I wanted to look back and remember what Ella looked like at 3 months... and discovered that was when I snapped some cute shots of her wearing a handmade hat from a dear friend, and laying on the matching blanket she crocheted. Since that same special friend made a hat and blanket for Claire as well... only made sense to do a second photo shoot!! Turns out these two look a LITTLE bit more alike than I thought!

This one is Ella:

The Now

2009-11-19T11:02:00.003-05:00

There really is nothing more precious than being able to slow down... take a step back and just realize where God has you in this moment in time. Funny how it's hard to remember how exactly we got here. But I have to say, I'm overwhelmingly thankful, and I like it - a lot.

She did it again....

2009-11-06T17:44:00.017-05:00

Once again Janet, you have blown us away... Thank you so much for capturing our memories!

And if any of you are looking for a fabulous photographer... you must head to: http://oijoyphoto.com

Princesses are for Sissies!!!

2009-11-03T15:18:00.011-05:00

Halloween this year was a hoot! Ella was supposed to be a cute little black cat... but she really wasn't too into wearing her ears. I know little girls her age tend to go for cute little princess or bunny costumes, but our daughter seemed to fit the Burglar role better. We dubbed her the Cat Burglar for the night - and she caught onto the whole trick or treat thing pretty quick! It wasn't long before she was heading to the doors with pumpkin in hand, plopping her bucket on the ground and exclaiming "thanks!" as she headed off with her loot! My pictures are awful because the kids moved way to quick, and apparently I have no idea how to take pictures in the dark... but here's what we've got!

Cooper the Frog, Carson the Duck, and Hopey the Garden Gnome!

I now understand that rule about not dressing your kids in dark colors when going out to trick or treat...

"One of these things is not like the other..."

Hmmm... I think next year I'm going to be the Grim Reaper!!!

(Don't miss the Reno post below!!)

Reno - 2009

2009-11-03T13:48:00.020-05:00

I headed out on my annual trip to Reno with just Claire this year. Didn't quite feel up to the challenge of taking the two girls all by myself, since Eric had to work. My parents were were pretty excited to have Ella all to themselves for a week, so we headed up to Chicago to drop her off, and then flew to Nevada. There were many reasons I looked forward to this trip... but one of the greatest benefits wound up being a chance to really bond with the newest addition to our family. It's been a pretty challenging couple of months trying to master the art of dividing attention between two small girls, and without a doubt Claire gets the short end of the stick most of the time. She is a little colicky - and I'm pretty sure that's because she is convinced it is the only way to get attention around here. Time always flies when it comes to watching kids grow up... but I've been really sad about the fact that it seems to fly twice as fast when it comes to Claire. She started smiling last week... and I couldn't believe she was already old enough to do it. Imagine my disappointment when I checked back in Ella's baby book and found she had smiled at 5 1/2 weeks... Claire is apparently not the socially advanced baby I thought she might be... it's just that I have been preoccupied with far too much to notice her life passing me by... I made sure to take as many pictures of her as I could... and you'll see many of them below.

That said... it was so special to just get to know her one on one. The trip was filled with friends and fun... but nowhere near the chaos that has become the norm around our home. Plus, Claire must have sensed her time was short... so she was sure to squeeze in extra bonding throughout the nights we were gone. :) Lucky me!

It's hard to believe it has been almost 4 years since I left Reno. It is always a pretty emotional visit for me, because SO much happened during the 5 years I lived there. It's both liberating, and sad to drive around and find memory after memory popping into your head... even visiting my old grocery store almost brought me to tears!! (Pathetic, I know!) I had the best time catching up with my closest friends... even was treated to a potluck with the girls from work! Got some priceless shots of Claire on Ricky's bench... had my hair done by my old friend and hairdresser... and just soaked in all the memories that changed my life in so many ways. It was a great time.

On October 2nd (Ricky's Birthday), I had the unexpected opportunity to talk to Ricky's birth-mom on the phone. It was a conversation that I hoped one day would happen, but honestly did not expect for many, many years. It was encouraging and exciting... as she wanted badly to meet with me, and to finally hear about all that had happened in her son's short life. We planned to meet while I was in Reno... I brought her pictures, some little tokens that were representative of his life, and even his ashes - since I had never decided where they belonged. When the time came however, it was not meant to be. I called her every day... and got no response. For whatever reason, she was avoiding me. I know because she had been at the hospital just a couple days before I got into town to see if I was there and to see the bench for the first time. I was definitely disappointed - but I do believe that when she is ready, she will call again. In the meantime, I'm praying a lot for her - and Ricky's three brothers, and one sister.

Pretty sure the Starbucks girl thought we were a little nuts when we asked her to take our picture in the drive-thru... but we're all about the experiences!

Peter and Stacey

Natalie, Me, Marylea, and Michelle

The best co-workers a girl could ask for! Don't know what I would have done without these girls... (and many others not pictured)! Love you girls!!

So glad I got to spend a couple days with Ray and Vicki! Never would have discovered Reno if they hadn't moved out there first! I have dubbed Ray the professional baby charmer... Claire could hardly muster up a whimper whenever she was in his arms... what a treat to be relieved of trying to calm her during those fussy evenings!!

Sweet girl... changing so much so fast...

NO idea who she looks like... maybe the mailman???

Claire and Carrie

Fall Indiana Days

2009-10-19T15:27:00.020-04:00

Photo Update

2009-10-09T14:21:00.013-04:00

Well I can safely say that parenting has officially become "a challenge". Just as we suspected, Ella was saving up all her tricks to unleash in some form of cruel revenge upon the arrival of her baby sister. She spends her mornings charming us with nothing but sweet, adorable demonstrations of growing into a little person, and then somehow while she is sleeping... she is able to morph herself into a sneaky little rebel who looks exactly like the baby girl we spent the earlier hours with... but in fact cannot possibly be.

Claire flies under the radar most of the time thanks to big sister. She is overall a really good baby. My favorite are the cooing sounds that I don't ever recalling having the pleasure of hearing from Ella. Lately, she prefers to be held - a luxury I try to explain is not generally afforded to a second child - but she won't hear of that. She does sleep periodically at night for chunks of time, but definitely does not seem interested in forfieting her late night bonding with mommy completely. She is growing more and more alert each day - and we adore her.

So far, the girls look very different. What hair Claire has, is extremely blond - while Ella was much darker. Can't wait to see how things develop over time. Ella has adjusted very well to having a newbie in the house. She fondly points to baby "Care", as well as gives her many kisses (something the rest of us are apparently unworthy of).

So here are a few more pictures for those who are looking!! My time on the computer has diminished to about 5 minutes a day - with the exception of the times I am able to swipe my husbands iPhone... so blogging is a challenge unfortunatly. But I'm doing my best!!!

Ella's obsession: remote controls

Watching Daddy install cabinet locks... no doubt she's taking note of exactly how to operate them and will have them open in no time.

Happy Birthday to My Favorite Little Man...

2009-10-02T12:40:00.001-04:00

Wishing the party was here this year... but I know you're having a far better time than we could ever show you...

Good Friends & Papples

2009-09-29T13:51:00.019-04:00

Fall is by far the best time of year in Indiana... and we had a blast with our good friends this past weekend at an apple orchard just a few minutes from our house! Ella has never really cared for apples... but apparently there is something to be said for the "fruits of your labor"... because after finally persuading her to taste the "Papples" she was picking, I couldn't get her to stop!

Wish I could take credit for all of these pictures, but the really good ones were stolen from Faith. She's really learning the ropes of that new camera and doing an awesome job!! Thanks for sharing Faith!!

Claire's 1st Month

2009-09-29T13:14:00.009-04:00

It is with shame that I report that what they say is true... the second baby never gets anywhere near the attention that the first does. Poor Claire has had just as many pictures taken in her first month of life, than Ella probably had taken in the first two days. I have recognized the error of my ways while putting this post together, and now vow to do better - from this day forward. You would think that being a second child myself would inspire me to work harder for my own kid... but as you probably noted from the above post, the camera seems to be drawn more to apples and 17 month olds than sleeping newborns. Claire, if you're reading this someday... I'm sorry. We promise to do better. :)

The Week in Pictures

2009-09-11T13:19:00.017-04:00

Claire's 1st week has been a busy one, that's for sure!! Although, I'm fairly confident that she was completely oblivious to the majority of it... Ella is adjusting really well after a couple of rough days. She has been spiking some high fevers that are either from the horrible molars that are taking their time poking through, or from some mysterious viral infection. Either way, she has been in and out of misery and a new baby sister was not exactly her idea of therapy. My parents have been staying with us and quite frankly I'm not sure we would have survived this week without them! Both girls are waking at night and without their help with Ella, I'm afraid Eric, Ella, Claire and I would have suffered breakdowns by now! :) Despite the drama from a Big Sister who would rather not be... a re-admission to the hospital for a very orange Claire... a cold for Eric and Mommy's sore boobs... we are overwhelmingly happy to finally have our new baby girl!

Ummm.... she's touching me!

"Big" and "Little"

"Do I know you?"

Aunt Julie, Cousin Emma

Ella trying to bribe Grandma Cook with cuddles in hopes she won't notice the new baby in the room.

So tired.

Doing a little tanning.

Triple lights!

"Good Mommy. Let's leave her here!"

Happy to be home... wait... she never even noticed she left.

Back to the Hospital

2009-09-08T22:30:00.000-04:00

Baby Claire was readmitted to the hospital tonight for a high bilirubin level. Poor thing has been turning a brighter and brighter shade of orange over the last few days, and bloodwork today indicated she needs phototherapy (triple lights in fact). All in all it's the an issue that typically is easily resolved... and we hope to maybe even return home tomorrow. Still, prayers would be appreciated... for her levels to drop quickly, as well as for Ella - who has become quite the Mommy's girl over the last few days. There is a horrible ailment called teething which has been wreaking havoc on her sleep - and mood! The new addition does not help a whole lot, and I can only hope that my absence will go unnoticed by her tomorrow. Thank GOODNESS for Grandma!!! What in the WORLD would we do without her being here?!

Baby Claire - the Revealing

2009-09-04T11:52:00.007-04:00

"Whatissssthat??"

Claire Elise Johnson

2009-09-03T09:55:00.000-04:00

September 2, 2009

4:02pm

6#14oz

20 3/4 inches long

D-Day

2009-09-02T07:49:00.000-04:00

Eric and I are settled into our hospital room and ready for the big day. If you're on Facebook, you should be able to find more updates there as things progress... and hopefully we'll have some pictures soon!!

Old McDonald had a Farm...

2009-08-23T15:33:00.015-04:00

Well, before I pop another baby out and lose all sense of reality and organization, I thought I better post a few recent photos and updates. Things are moving along and thanks to my empathetic Obstetrician, I will be having a baby on Sept. 2nd at the latest! While they say you should try to enjoy the "peace and freedom" prior to a newborn arriving to disrupt the house, I have come to the conclusion that "THEY", never endured pregnancy with a 15 month old. As many women say at this phase... I am "over it", to say the least. And while I realize that chaos, sleepless nights, and stress await... wait... that's pretty much how things are now! Whatever... while I understand it will all soon multiply... let me face them without having to run to the bathroom 10 times a night (also complicated by the fact I can barely roll out of the bed), and without trying to chase a little girl around without bending at the waist!

We are asked constantly, "does Ella understand?", "is she excited about her baby sister?", and the answer is simply - "NO!". The poor kid couldn't be more clueless - and I dare anyone to try and explain it to her! She will know soon enough - and I have no doubt that we have some difficult days ahead. In some ways - I am sad for her - because I can't imagine what it will be like from her perspective, to suddenly have an intruder in the house... but she will inevitably adjust, and in a short time will never ever remember life without her baby sister.

And speaking of our 1st baby... Ella is pretty much obsessed with dogs, cats, and farm animals these days. She's petrified of birds (that's my girl), and rodents - but put her face to face with a Great Dane and she has no fear. One of the perks to living in Indiana (no seriously, there are some)... is that there seems to be no shortage of farm animals around - go figure! We've had a couple fun outings to an organic dairy farm, and more recently the Indiana State Fair - and found that our otherwise timid daughter seems to be in her element when introduced to swine, llama, and goats... She knows her animals as well as many of their sounds... but for some reason the excitement of seeing them face to face causes her to forget - and everything says, "WOOF! WOOF! WOOF!!".

And a few random shots for your viewing pleasure... it's so hard to believe how much she has grown!!

"Look everyone! I have hair now!!"

Strollers - now more fun to push than ride in...

"What?"

A few days ago I brought out the car seat to get it ready for the new baby. Ella discovered it worked great as a rocking chair in the house, and combined with her fascination with buckles... it kept her busy for hours. I had to dig out this original shot of the day we brought her home from the hospital. She definitely is a little bigger now...

3 Years and Counting...

2009-08-05T21:28:00.010-04:00

Emma and Ella

2009-08-03T20:01:00.001-04:00

Last week our neice Emma came to stay with us for a few days. Ella and I were both feeling kind of lousy - but somehow I was the only one who couldn't muster the strength to "play through the illness". Emma was my saving grace and kept Ella entertained constantly! She's going to be the best babysitter EVER and I'm currently working on convincing her parents that they need to move closer! We ventured out a few times to the splash park and even the pet store (my new rainy day activity for Ella). Thanks again Emma!!! You're the best!!

The Pet Store from Meghan Johnson on Vimeo.

Did I Mention??

2009-07-27T13:19:00.003-04:00

HE PASSED!! WOW! In all the excitement and craziness... I forgot to even post the great news!! Eric PASSED!!! And those Kroger Pharmacies don't mess around!! About 12 hours after finding out he was a LICENSED PHARMACIST... they turned him lose working BY HIMSELF in a super busy store. Nothing like a little trial by fire! It's been a little overwhelming and nerve wracking - but I'm handling it all pretty well... OH! And Eric is as well... we are all so proud of him and KNOW that the days will get easier and easier as he gains more experience. Way to go Eric... after so much perseverance and hard work... you have accomplished more than most of us ever could. Love you!!

Notes from a Slacker...

2009-07-19T21:17:00.003-04:00

I have been more than lazy about blogging and I feel a little guilty considering I have this fabulous new blog layout (OK - totally my opinion), to post on! My excuse is a combination of changes that I find have led me away from the computer as often as I once was (something I never thought would be possible)! First... my laptop is pretty close to finding it's way into the toilet. It has been my primary tool for blogging from home - since the other computer sits in the office and my ADD mind prefers to have multiple things going on at the same time (Food Network/cooking/Baby Einstein... among many other things). The greatest obstacle seems to be a certain 14 month old who cannot bear to keep her hands to herself - particularly on the rare occasions when I might venture into the office to attempt a moment on the Internet. It is the one room that is far from... and will continue to be baby-proof free. Mostly because I really wouldn't even know where to start! That leaves nap time (of which we are down to one), and bedtime. Somehow these treasured moments of peace and freedom are almost always filled with lists of to-do's that constantly compete for the title of "priority", and once "THE NAP" wins out... few minutes are left before the voice of one stinkin' adorable little girl sounds out from the monitor singing "E-I-E-I-O......... COW!".

What I have come to realize is that ironically, my best blogging has always happened at WORK! Hours of night shift with breaks between caring for babies has always left me little else to do... and I have taken advantage of it! But my work schedule has changed as well... and I have to admit that aside of the loss of time on Blogger... I am pretty thrilled about it. 3, 12 hour night shifts a week dropped to 2 when Eric finished school last month, and as of this week... I am working in a supplemental position - which means I am required to sign up for ONE 12 hr shift ever 6 WEEKS!!! Rough, isn't it??!!! Of course ~~Eric is seeing to it~~ - I mean, I am planning on signing up for quite a bit more than that before this baby comes... but having the freedom to be home more and up all night less is really awesome. And I am SOOOO grateful that we're are in a situation that allows me to stay at home most of the time. It's also allowing me to work some partial shifts... rather than a full 12 hours, which my cankles definitely appreciate as does my brain which continues to fail me.

Eric is loving the fact that school is OVER and while he seems to be prematurely day-dreaming about retirement already, I think he is really enjoying his new job with Kroger. TOMORROW... is his 2nd and final licensing exam. If he passes both (which we know he will), by the end of this week he could possible be completely on his own in the store! And despite the fear of possibly killing someone someday with an error in calculations or drug interactions... it's pretty exciting to realize all that he has accomplished. No doubt time and experience will help his confidence... but he's also received a lot of affirmation from some of the Pharmacists he's been working with over the last few weeks - and knowing that others with far more experience than you, have confidence in your abilities, helps a lot. If you have a moment to pray for him between the hours of 1pm and 5pm tomorrow - I'm sure he would appreciate it.

We know he'll do just fine... but the pressure of knowing

that he'll have to wait 3 months to repeat it if he DOESN'T pass... continue to work on half his salary... force me to return full time before, right through, and immediately after popping this baby out... require us to pay for cobra insurance on top of hospital delivery bills AND be the first student in his class to fail this year...

is just a little bit much at times. :)

No biggie... just a little pressure. So a prayer or two couldn't hurt! :)

Miss Ella continues to make us smile. She is no longer a baby... and I'm a little sad about that... but nothing is as fun as watching your own kid discover the world one day at a time. She is quite the talker... and walking faster and faster by the minute (although it often resembles a drunk chicken). She loves cats and dogs - hates birds (that's my girl)... and wants to love cows but the fondness ends the moment they come to life. She's a natural at soccer - although I'm discouraging her from trying out as a goalie... and she could read books all day long if you let her. Being 14 months old... she is completely oblivious to the fact that a new baby sister is on the way, and she will soon be de-throned. The closer we get to D-Day, the more concerned I feel about how I will reassure her young soul of her place in my heart - but I know that in time she will get used to it all, and odd as it seems to me right now - never even remember these days when she was our one and only. Ironically just in the last 2 weeks she has become fond of her "BABE" dolls... I keep asking her as she places them upside down in her play stroller and pushes them down the hall, if she'd like to have a real one of those... but can't quite get an answer out of her on that. I guess we'll know soon enough...

Well - my 4 HOUR SHIFT is drawing to a close... and I think I've covered enough to at least make myself feel better. :) I've got to grab the last few minutes to do some online research of double strollers and baby monitors before heading out...

Back soon with some pictures and updates!!

Gospel at it's Finest...

2009-07-11T14:30:00.003-04:00

A song by my favorite group of all time...
The best they have ever sounded by far...

Roommates and Ivanhoes

2009-07-08T16:22:00.009-04:00

Michelle, Me, and Bethany

Last night I got to meet up with two of my college roommates. My senior year I lived in a house with 4 other girls, and the 5 of us had an absolute blast together. I really can't believe 8 years have passed since those days... and it's pretty crazy to see where life has taken each of us. We met up at a favorite hangout - Ivanhoes. Known for their 100 different shake/sundae options (always #42 - the Grasshopper, for me), they are a local favorite. It probably would have been easier to catch up on all the latest details without the kids around - but it was so much fun to see how fast they are all growing up! I don't think I ever could have imagined us all as mothers - back in the day when we were sitting around stuffing our faces with Totinos pizza and ordering eachother out of the bathroom...

"The Offspring" - Isaac, Grace, Taylor, Ella & Kaylin

Ella and her new best bud... "Uncle Andy"

Taylor and Ella

Antics

2009-07-04T22:16:00.007-04:00

Well... since I can't sleep due to all the crazy fireworks going on in the neighborhood despite the rain... I figured I'd post a few videos/photos of our fun 4th of July. Ella seems to be a natural in the one talent that completely freaks me out - gymnastics. Hopefully it's just a fluke... but I don't know if it's normal for a 14-month-old to be able to do a perfect somersault... Mommy was a little slow with the camera work... so I only got this one short clip of her doing one - but there were many others prior, and following... (Don't forget to pause the music in the right sidebar before playing the videos!!)

And a funny one with Daddy's nose...

Grandma teaching Ella how to drive the Mule...

Is there something on my back??

Get Your Bracelet HERE!

2009-07-02T01:57:00.002-04:00

Support bracelets are now available to purchase to help benefit Mikayla. They are mint green and say Mikayla's Warriors. They can be purchased for $2.00 each. All proceeds will go to help with Mikayla's expenses.

If you are in the Huxley, Iowa area you can email iyazkar@yahoo.com for information on how to purchase the bracelets.

Outside of of the area...mail your order to:
MIKAYLA'S WARRIORS
C/O PO Box 435
Slater, IA 50244

Please enclose a self addressed stamped envelope for the bracelet(s) to be mailed back to you.

Random

2009-06-26T10:53:00.018-04:00

Since I've been a lazy blogger... here's a few pics from the last few weeks - so I can rest easy knowing I've actually posted something lately!

Daddy trying to figure out how bubbles work...

Miss Kara and Ella - obviously bonding through an inside joke.

Faith and the girls... if only we all had her energy. (And I do mean Faith's.)

"PEEK!"

Boppo and Ella... she's still not sure about that beard.

Feeling a little more comfortable with Nana... perhaps it's the lack of facial hair...

Nana out and about - feeling so much better after weeks in bed.

Enough said.

Dr. Lisa - at her graduation party a couple weeks ago! Congratulations again!!

WOW! These things really work!

A rare photo op with Mommy...

We may not all look alike... but we all LOVE to shop!

A New Look For Me!!

2009-06-16T13:35:00.002-04:00

I know what I really need more than anything is my own personal makeover... you know the full body massage, hair style, mani/pedi, liposuction, tanning salon, get-this-baby-out-of-my-uterus kind of makeover? But since all that is either way too expensive, dangerous, or just plain impossible - I'm settling for the new blog makeover look. My awesome and far too generous friend Faith gifted me with this through the very talented and now somewhat famous, Danielle. It is supposedly a retirement gift... very funny considering I'm not quite yet (nor am I sure when I really ever will be), retired... but also because retirement - in itself - is a great enough gift for me. Nevertheless, I can't thank you enough Faith - for the face lift. (Incidentally, I'm both super excited and completely terrified about the future makeover I plan to let you give me this winter... when you kick my butt with cardio and weights. :)

The new title of my blog is a phrase from one of my favorite Jars of Clay songs. I discovered it following one of the many challenging times in my life - several years ago while I was living in Reno... It was one of those spiritual concepts that you wake up one day and realize is actually true. If you've been a Christian for a long time like me, you know what I'm talking about... those things that you grow up "believing" but never really comprehending. The things you say are true because the bible told you so... but you never really thought of them within the context of your own life.

The definition of redemption, according to the great Webster, is to buy back; to free from what distresses or harms; to change for the better; to atone for. I wasn't really wanting the title to have a depressing undertone... but as the song says -

"I was looking at redemption. It was hidden in the landscape... of loss, and love, and fire and rain. I never would have come this way...".

While most of us wouldn't choose to walk through the circumstances that have brought us the greatest pain throughout life... few can deny that those are the very situations that have made us stronger... hopefully drawn us closer to our Heavenly Father... and maybe even caused us to realize that hidden in those dark moments, we were experiencing what it meant to be redeemed. A promise of hope for the future... reunion... grace... eternal peace. No matter how hot the fire... or how hard the rain falls - redemption can be our landscape - if only we accept it.

I wish I could say that the struggles I was going through when I first heard this song - are things I no longer struggle with. I wish I could say that the pain or Ricky's loss is gone, and only peace is left behind. I wish I could say that the fires I've walked through are things of the past - but the truth is very few are. What I can say, is that the same One who beat me over the head with the truth of my redemption several years ago, continues to do it today. And He will never give up. The reassurance will always be there... redemption... will always be there. It is in the landscape... hidden at times and plain as day at others. And it will be there... with the loss, love, fire and rain that is yet to come.

A VERY Belated Congratulations...

2009-06-06T20:47:00.008-04:00

Not that Eric has been pulled in ranks these days... it really has not been intentional that I have taken forever and a day to get some Graduation pics up. The month of May seemed to last all of 2 days in length... and things have been a little nuts. So without further ado... I present documentation that my husband did finally graduate with his Doctorate in Pharmacy... and he did so while making all of us incredibly proud. Congratulations Eric!!! It's been a long, challenging, and exhausting road... and I know it wasn't easy for you either!!! :)

Praise

2009-05-28T21:06:00.002-04:00

I don't know how many of you have been keeping up with Mikayla's journey, but I had to post about the wonderful news they have received today. Follow up scans and tests have revealed that the chemotherapy she is receiving is working beautifully (aside from those crummy side effects of course)! The spots on her lungs are GONE and there is only a small area of activity remaining on the tumor on her pelvis!!

Please please if you haven't made it to her website check it out. You can click on her name on the left side of the blog. You have to register by simply entering an email and password so that they can send updates... but then you will be able to follow what's going on and see some photos. If you have the chance, she LOVES reading all the comments so don't worry a bit that you're a stranger. Just let her know you're praying and encourage her!

Yay Mikayla!!! We are SO proud of you!!!!

390 Days Old

2009-05-25T12:32:00.006-04:00

Today, Ella is the exact age that Ricky was on the day he died. 390 short days sum up the long lasting memories of Ricky's earthly existence. What a contrast to the little girl who lies in a crib upstairs, thriving... growing stronger and stronger every day. Looking at her, it is painfully clear how sick that little boy was. Fighting for your life takes its tole - but despite his many limitations, what a fight it was. In many ways, it makes me sad that Ricky never knew the simple and carefree existence Ella does. And at the very same time, I have no words to describe the relief I feel that Ella has not had to endure the challenges and pain that Ricky did.

I heard an interview recently with Steven Curtis Chapman where he was discussing the anniversary of his daughter's death. He made a statement that really struck me... it was the realization that because of salvation, Maria's life will be a far greater part of his future, than it was of his past. So profound, and so encouraging. It's so hard to comprehend... but this life is truly just passing moment in the context of eternity. How lucky am I... that my days were not numbered with Ricky... my days without him are. Today also happens to be Memorial Day, and while Ricky never fought for our country... I am equally grateful, if not more for a 390 day fight that taught me what a gift life is. Whether dying or thriving... every single moment can be used by God to teach us something.

I am unbelievably blessed to have had 390 days of Ricky... and 390 days of Ella. With all my heart, I know that they were given to me in that order. I really never paid attention to the developmental milestones that Ricky was missing month to month as he grew older and yet smaller... and now I appreciate all the more the accomplishments of a healthy toddler. I know Ricky reached those milestones eventually (the ones that matter in heaven anyway)... and I can't wait to see them for myself. In the meantime, what an incredible gift I have been given - to spend each day caring for yet another miracle... one that requires little more from me than basic care and love. It is honestly almost effortless... because there is rarely a moment for me when I don't know in the back of my head how it could otherwise be. And while I hope and pray that neither Ella, nor any other children God blesses us in the future with ever have to know what just one of those 390 days were like for Ricky, I have learned that regardless of the journey, God's faithfulness will never waver.

390 days with each of them... I am forever changed, forever in love. My cup runneth over.

Ricky... 2 days before he died. Hard to look at but I like to imagine Jesus was whispering to him... telling him all about what Heaven was going to be like.

Ella...2 days ago. Experiencing the only heaven she can comprehend at this point... the park.

Concerns

2009-05-23T03:12:00.002-04:00

I know I have much to update about, but it's 3am... I'm struggling through my 12 hour shift... and I can't shake a burning question that's been bugging me for a couple days now.

Suppose every single time you sang 'Jesus Loves Me' to your soon-to-be 13 month old, she repeatedly and consistently shook her head "NO" with a somewhat evil yet smart allecky look on her face while you nodded "YES, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me...".

Would you be concerned?

Happy 1st Birthday Ella!

2009-04-30T19:51:00.005-04:00

What a difference a year makes!!!

Ella's 1st Cupcake from Meghan Johnson on Vimeo.

Correction

2009-04-29T21:04:00.006-04:00

Ella wanted to let everyone know that after further examining her baby sister's ultrasound photographs... she has confirmed with the doctor... who finally confirmed what Mommy knew all along... that the due date will officially stand as Sept. 11 rather than the 1st. Although we are all quite certain that this baby will come when she darn well pleases!
Sorry for the confusion... and thank you for your understanding.

March for Babies

2009-04-26T21:12:00.007-04:00

It was a beautiful day in downtown Indianapolis for a 5 mile walk on behalf of premature babies!! We're all just a little bit worn out now (pathetic right?)... but it was fun and so worth it!! Thanks so much to all of you who contributed!!!

Little Miss Miracle, Noura. Her mom had this awesome shirt made... she was too cute!!

Brian, Faith, and little Hopey. We loved doing this with them!!! They sure made it a good workout for us! We did our best to keep up!!

One tired family...

A Day at the Park... and a Vocabulary Lesson

2009-04-23T20:48:00.013-04:00

We had a great day at the park with Miss Faith and little Hopey. Both girls were a little bit tired... but they humored their Mommys and tried to make the best of things anyway...

In the last two weeks... Ella has managed to blow us away with what seems to be a new word or action every day. She waves, blows kisses, gives kisses, and even takes a step or two on her own. She can now say "bye", "quack", "moo", "baby", "Mac" (that's Max), "baba", "mama", "dada", uh-oh", "WEE!", "WOW" (but she means Bow-wow)... and I know I'm forgetting a couple more. She's pretty stinkin' hilarious and continues to be such a good baby. (Even though I think she's getting ready to rob me of my - I mean her - morning nap time). She even yelled at Max the other day when he licked her feet. She looked at him... scowled and said "MAC... NUH"! Poor dog... even the baby yells at him now... She's definitely closing out her first year with a bang of new accomplishments... and we're having a blast watching her grow. The
big '1' is in just 7 short days!!

"Wee!!"

Ella where's Daddy?? "I dunno!"

Ella's Animal Sounds from Meghan Johnson on Vimeo.

March of Dimes

2009-04-22T20:27:00.003-04:00

I am SUPER excited and grateful for the MANY donations that have come in for the March of Dimes walk to support premature birth. Eric, Ella and I - along with several friends will be hittin' the street THIS Sunday, and I just wanted to post a gentle reminder or encouragement to anyone else out there who might be interested in making a tax deductible donation to a really great cause. I personally have the privilege of seeing the benefits of this organization directly in my work... and I promise it is $$ well spent.

Again, thanks again to ALL of you who have contributed already!! And if you're interested in still making a donation, just click on the March of Dimes banner to the left of this post. Thanks so much!!

Easter

2009-04-17T12:59:00.012-04:00

This year we celebrated Easter by heading over to Grandma Cook's house. My parents were even able to join us this year which made it extra special. All the cousins had a great time together - especially when it came time to the Easter egg hunt. Eric and I did an absolutely FABULOUS job (note the sarcasm) of hiding the eggs... so it took a little while (about 5 minutes), for the girls to be able to find them all. Ella was treated to her usual dose of spoiling - and we all had a great time. It was a beautiful day here in Indiana, and a wonderful day of celebration as were reminded in church that morning, of the incredible miracle of our salvation!

Note the soccer ball. I'm getting her started early - much to her Father's dismay...

The girls trying hard to find all the eggs! Most of them were just lying in the grass (we got a little lazy trying to find good places).

Ella hanging out with Aunt Susie. All it took was one egg to make her happy.

Hands off Grandma! That's mine!

2009-04-13T19:31:00.002-04:00

Looks like Daddy is destined to live in a land of pink!!!

Colorado 2009

2009-04-09T17:04:00.003-04:00

Since I'm on a roll with videos lately... I'll go ahead and get this one up. Ella and I took a trip out to Colorado to visit my sister and BFF Susie (I think I mentioned that earlier)... but I had so many pics I decided to throw them all into a little video for your viewing pleasure...

Just a couple apologies in advance... after reviewing the final product I noticed how many repeats of pictures there are... sorry about that. I'm also sorry for the apparent obsession we had with the giraffes at the zoo. But seriously... these things were in our FACES and LICKING US!!!

Don't forget to stop the music on the right sidebar!

Colorado 2009 from Meghan Johnson on Vimeo.

More!

2009-04-08T13:05:00.002-04:00

What's that?? You want to see more??!! Oh... OK... since you begged...

An oldie but a goodie:

Elmo & Ricky from Meghan Johnson on Vimeo.