Monday, March 21, 2011

Denver

Skiing at Breckenridge- God's creation is so amazing!!
This is how I felt when skiing- although Steph assured me I didn't look like this :)
Steph was kind enough to let me use her goggles
Who said Moms can't have style?- Um, I only have style b/c Steph dressed me!
My "twin"

I just had a great weekend! I went to Denver this past Thursday-Sunday to spend some time with Stephanie. It is such a treat to travel by myself. Although apparently I relaxed too much because I left my carry-on at the security checkpoint. I am so used to checking luggage that after going thru the metal detectors I grabbed my purse and walked away to get lunch. As I sat down to eat my lunch I realized I didn't have my carry-on! I was very embarrassed to tell the guards I had left my suitcase behind. They didn't give me too much grief. My sister has a really cute apartment and it was just a relaxing place to be. I arrived in town on St. Patrick's Day so we got to watch all of the crazy, drunk people downtown. And the altitude did affect me. I had only one margarita and let's just say I was feeling it.

On Friday, we went skiing at Breckenridge. It was a beautiful, sunny day and I was loving it. I can understand why people would want to ski every weekend out there! I also enjoyed that Steph and I have similar skiing skills. We would rather enjoy a leisurely ski down the mountain than dying, I mean, challenging ourselves on harder runs. We both have a high sense of self-preservation. :) Even though we went down the "less challenging" runs, we were still sore by the end of the day.

I also had a chance to meet some of Steph's friends on Friday night. I was afraid I would feel really old, but it was fun. It helped that most of the group had graduated from Calvin or were from the midwest. This evening was also my first foray into the world of "skinny jeans." Skinny jeans have been popular for a little while, but I had no desire to join the fad, mostly because I would have to buy new boots and flats because regular shoes don't look good with skinny jeans. Way too much of a financial investment for me. :) Anyway, Steph convinced me to wear her skinny jeans and boots. I'll admit I looked cute, but I was very self-conscious walking down the street. I felt like everyone was staring at me, until I realized every other woman was dressed just like me. :) The highlight of my evening was when I told someone I had 3 kids and they were shocked. They said I was too skinny to have 3 kids. Thank you skinny jeans!

I was surprised how many times people commented on how alike Steph and I look. I know we have similarities, but I have never thought we look that much alike. One lady asked if we were twins and which one of us was older? I know she was trying to make me feel good, but it still brought a smile to my face. :)

Steph took me to a breakfast place called, Snooze. We waited an hour, but it was worth it! I should have taken a picture of my meal. I had sticky bun french toast with cream cheese icing drizzled over it. It was awesome.

I love my sister so much and I thank God for our friendship! She is a funny, smart, beautiful and God-loving woman. I am so proud of you, Steph and thanks for a memorable weekend!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

New 3rd Day Adoption Video: Children of God

New 3rd Day Adoption Video: Children of God



I enjoy Third Day's music and I really like this music video. Watching this makes me smile and cry at the same time, love it!

Friday, March 11, 2011

Happy Birthday, Julia!

Elmo is now a 2nd birthday tradition
Grandpa and Grandma J came to celebrate
Tim and Jenny came too
Mmm, strawberry cake
Daddy made Julia a toy box and we gave her a book that features her name
Caleb had Cowboy Day at school. He wasn't allowed to bring the gun to school. :)

I feel guilty right now. I always try to post on the day of my family's birthdays, however that did not happen this time. I apologize, Julia. I could blame it on a variety of factors; that Nate was working nights, we had church that evening, and I had strep throat and felt horrible. Anyways, we celebrated Julia's birthday last weekend with my family. We made bulgogi and had the Elmo cake. I am a pro at the Elmo cake now, I get faster every time. :) Julia blew out her candles, although Isaac got excited and blew one of them out for her. She got a pair of rainboots from Grandpa and Grandma J that she loves to wear. She got a gardening set from Grandpa and Grandma D so she is all set for spring! She also received a personalized CD from Grandpa and Grandma D. Caleb received a similar one when he was little. When the songs started playing he said, "the songs are supposed to say, Caleb!" At some point we all learn that other people have songs written about them too. :) Julia enjoyed the birthday attention and is telling people she is 3, hmm.

Julia had her 2 year old physical and she is doing great! She weighs 27 lbs and is 33 inches long which puts her in the 50th percentile for height and weight, perfectly proportioned. The doctor is still very impressed with Julia's language skills. She also got a chuckle out of my description of Julia's strong willed tendencies. The doctor was very encouraging though too.

We are so thankful to call this precious girl our daughter. I sometimes look at her and am shocked at how big she is getting. I appreciate those times she lies on my lap and sucks her thumb. Julia is such a cutie and it is fun to imagine what she will look like as an adult. She enjoys having books read to her, although she flips the pages before we can read the whole page! Julia is starting to sing songs and likes having us sing her a song before bed. She will play with Isaac now, but doesn't let him direct her play- much to Isaac's frustration. :) Julia can be a little social butterfly and brings joy to many people. We love you so much, Julia and we pray God blesses your life in many ways!