The Poe-Tell

Psalm 37

2007-04-19T11:14:00.000-05:00

The morning after I learned from TV about the VTech tragedy, I read my Bible. As usual, in searching for some encouraging, comforting words from God, I turned to Psalms, just asking for Him to speak. This is what He said (it was just opening to this page):

Psalm 37

"Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and he will do this:
He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret-it leads only to evil.
For evil men will be cut off,
but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.

(skipping to v.39)
The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord;
he is their stronghold in time of trouble.
The Lord helps them and delivers them;
He delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in Him.

Also another time this week in Bible study I read this:
Isaiah 40:11, 28-31

"He tends His flock like a shepherd:
He gathers the lambs in His arms
and carries them close to His heart;
He gently leads those that have young.

Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint."

And my personal favorite as a result of the tragic deaths of three of my friends in high school:
Romans 8:28

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

My prayers for those effected in the community of this tragedy is that they be visited and blessed by the Comforter! And in knowing what it feels like to be bombarded by the media after a tragedy, though not as large as this one, I pray for their private healing and allowing their bonds to strengthen them from within the community. I pray the press would be wise and compassionate in how they decide to continue to publicize this event.

Easter and some other Pics

2007-04-18T12:05:00.000-05:00

Like everyone else's Easter . . . it was freezing! I hate it, too, that I didn't get any pictures of the girls in their easter dresses together. I had the stomach virus on Easter morning so Justin had to get the girls ready. Lucy Anne didn't even wear a bow, if you can believe that, and I didn't care!!!!

Ella

2007-04-18T11:24:00.000-05:00

It is so hard to believe you are already 7 1/2 months! When Lucy Anne was your age, I felt like she was soooo old. With you, it seems like you're still a couple of months old. I suppose that is because our time is divided between you and your sister. Speaking of, oh how you love Lucy Anne! I see your eyes light up when she walks in the room. Recently, she spent some time with Meme and I can honestly tell a difference in your demeanor. You really missed her.

You are like Lucy Anne in so many ways. You are similar in size which makes me happy because I just love to get out Lucy Anne's clothes for you to wear. You are also pretty vocal - you adequately let us know you're there and especially when you've been left alone! As for nursing, you are exactly like her. I can remember wrestling her to eat just the same as I do you. You are both very efficient at it. You are both so very sweet!

I have noticed some differences as well. You love the tags on things and if I could find a "Taggy" I would buy you one. Those tags keep you so entertained. Lucy was never as interested in them. You are a huge grabber. You spend all your energy trying to get ahold of whatever is in your view. I think you are a little more curious than your sister. For instance, I predict, we will have a difficult time keeping you out of the cabinets whereas Lucy Anne was not quite as much of an explorer. You might be more of a mama's girl. Lucy Anne was too, but I don't remember her crying when I left the room. And if someone else is holding you with me around, you would rather be in my arms. However, you are still social.

For my own record keeping (because I have been so bad):

At close to 6 months, you started sitting on your own.
Since 7 months, you are crawling but you're better at going backwards than forwards. It frustrates you that you aren't better at going forward.
You say "mama" and "dada" and your favorite noise is a spitting noise.

We love you so much, you sweet, precious baby girl! What a special gift and blessing you are!

Catch Up

2007-04-18T11:15:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe how time flies! I feel like I have a lot to blog about. Since my last blog, we've bought 20 acres and are about to pour the foundation soon to our new house. Really, that has taken up my blog-time, looking for land, finding a plan we both like, and then all of the other things that go into building a house. In addition, my in-laws have bought 7 acres just south of our land. Actually, they will be building on our land and we will swap to provide a barrier between us and the other owner (he was planning on developing) and we don't want to have a house at our front door. Anyway, they will begin building in about a year or so.

That's about all of the big news I have besides being sick with the stomach flu (like everyone else) and making trips back and forth to see our folks.

Being a Mother Makes You Strong

2007-01-13T10:13:00.000-06:00

I just need to record what kind of day I had yesterday . . . for good measure . . . or to just remember how the Lord helps you muddle through. Not that this day or the events compare, in the least, to everyone else's. Subjectively speaking, however, it was QUITE A DAY FOR ME!

I just joined a new gym and am very excited about it. Right now, the only possible work-out time for me is 6:00 am. So, I awoke at 5:25 and scurried across town to the gym for some Pilates. After my work-out I took advantage of the alone time and stopped in Wal-Mart for some "snowed-in" food. The weathermen have been forcasting lots of ice (for three days) and possible power outages. By the way, Wal-Mart was out of most everything, including de-icer. Anywho, it felt good to get so much done before 7:30.

I must say that I am so glad that I DO NOT live in a place that has this kind of weather on a regular basis. The girls and I bundled up with coats and mittens and blankets for their well-child checks at 10:00. Have I mentioned before about how much Lucy Anne HATES the doctor "check" (that's what she calls it). And, of course, she insists that Ella "get checked" first each time we go. In her mind, I'm sure she thinks she's being quite a good sister to allow Ella to have her turn first. But, I see her motives . . ha ha! Ella's report: underweight. In the red zone. For that matter she doesn't even weigh as much as Lucy did at 4 months. Ugh! I don't have any more answers and frankly, neither did the doctor. I believe Ella eats better than Lucy did and I know she gets more of the hind milk. We just discussed giving her cereal but it was pretty much left up to me if I want to do it.

Next up for "checking" is Lucy. Her report: underweight, same story! The doctor then orders some blood work and an x-ray (Lucy often complains about her leg). She had been so excited to find out though that she excaped her Hep shot, only Ella was going to be receiving any shots. The nurse gave Ella her three shots. It was also time for her to eat so calming her down didn't happen right away. In the meantime, Lucy Anne keeps asking "are we going home"? I tried to avoid telling her about the inevitable, looming procedures that were coming her way by scurting the question. I told her in a very excited tone we were going downstairs to the basement where Mommy used to work (in college, I worked in the lab/x-ray). Ella is still screaming. I ask if we can use their auditory testing room to nurse. While I am nursing a girl tries to look at Lucy Anne's arm for a good vein. She tells me she wants to lay Lucy down. I strongly advise her against restrainment since that's the worst thing for Lucy. I thought she would do better sitting in my lap. Phleb-lady leaves and comes back with two more ladies. One with authority tries to explain to me the reasons why she wants to lay Lucy Anne down. Since I had been in their shoes before, I did not argue with them even though I knew better (however, I will know better next time for the sake of my daughter). Even though I had fed Ella halfway, she is still screaming. Poor thing in her chair all alone while four of us try to constrain my 25 lb. three year old who is as stiff as a board, kicking and screaming. A girl inserts the butterfly needle in her right arm and misses . . . she digs . . . no blood.

I cannot stand that look your child gives you. The one that says "please don't let them do this to me", "why are you holding me down like they are", "I am as pitiful as can be"! It's the one that comes when they've sort of given up a little bit, tired of fighting for only just a moment, a desperate measure that could almost work. It makes me want to cry every time.

Back to this long story, I let Lucy Anne sit up and she did not want to have to be stuck again. So, I grabbed her other arm and the turnicate from the lab tech. I wrapped it around her arm and she seemed to be much, much calmer. I found a good vein and a different lab tech poked her. Lucy Anne did soooooo much better. I know it is the restrainment that makes all the difference. By this time, one of the lab techs was holding Ella. She was finally calming down. We prepared Lucy Anne for her "pictures". And the lab tech says, "I am taking the baby to the lab". I looked at the x-ray tech and excused myself as I told her I would not let some lady I didn't know take my baby. I encouraged Lucy Anne that she could do this on her own. She seemed excited for the photo shoot, and I went out the door to be with Ella. Lucy Anne did fabulous with the x-ray. Much, much better than the last time we took x-rays of her. I finished feeding Ella and we loaded all of our bundling to go checkout . . . two hours later.

Justin shows up right as we were checking out. I was soooo happy to see him. He had been by McDonalds and we sat in my car and ate pretty much in silence. Silence is something very, very rare with Lucy Anne. Ella was sleeping. The sleet was falling. The drive home slow, yet successful.

I put the girls to bed for a nap, watched last night's episode of Grey's Anatomy and then began preparing for friends of ours to come for dinner and some Mexican Train. We had a great time. I ended this very crazy day at 12:30 am .

I know most of you have days like that or much worse and handle them with grace. For me, I must glory in Phil. 4:13 which says, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength". . . .only in HIM!

USPS Santa

2007-01-03T11:10:00.000-06:00

We arrived at my parents on Saturday and went to church with both sets of parents on Christmas Eve morning. We had a wonderful Sunday with a fire and card-playing (my favorite family past-time). Finally, after much discussion about Santa coming to MeMaw's house "while we're asleep", I thought we would have a traditional Santa kind-of Christmas. We opened some presents and then set out cookies and chocolate milk for Santa. However, while being put to bed, Lucy Anne decided that Santa should just send her presents by mail. Daddy agreed to tell Santa and we left it at that. A little before 7:00 Lucy Anne woke up and needed to go potty. As I was taking her to the bathroom, the wind made a classic sound of hooves on the rooftop. She stopped dead in her tracks and with terror and surprize she looked up at me to ask, "Is that Santa?" I was extremely tempted (for my fun, of course) to play in to her fears, but I said "no, just the wind." She even claimed to hear a "ho ho ho". I still chuckle. What an imagination!

It was a fun time this holiday season! Here are some pics to commemorate the festivities!

Looking Back . . .2006

2007-01-03T09:55:00.000-06:00

What a Blessed Year! I have never experienced so much change and yet, so much joy!

Actually, I must begin my year in December 2005, where God began answering our prayers regarding when and where. Justin and I had been thinking about three particular things and in our hearts and minds, some would have to happen before others due to finances. We were praying about a new car for me, a baby, and moving. It is very interesting how out of order from first thought these three items came. First, mid-December we sort-of spur of the moment (for Justin's track record it was spur of the moment) bought a new car. Then, on the morning of December 31, found out I was pregnant. Finally, we decided it would be best to put our house up for sale once we learned we were pregnant. The house sold in two weeks (see prior Blogs) and we moved to a different state to live with Justin's parents. The move was chaotic and difficult due to a snow and ice storm. My mom and dad (with Lucy Anne) totaled their car while taking a load for us. But, we made it through and eventually got all of our belongings.

Another prayer was answered shortly after moving. I was able to concentrate on potty-training Lucy Anne. She did great and in a relatively short time she was using the potty! For me, this is one of the greater accomplishments of 2006!

In March or April of 2006, Justin bought a lot on the growing Southwest part of town to begin building his first spec house. We are overjoyed to report its completion and will be closed to the buyer on January 19th! Meanwhile, Justin has also been spending the majority of his work hours with a local, but well-known company, who makes Kicker speakers. They are building a 17 million dollar project. Justin is a consultant/project manager for them. God has abundantly blessed each part of his business this past year!

August was quite a full month for us. Justin's parents moved out of their house and we took over full occupation. This left us in a scurry to get Ella's room ready. Actually, a friend came and decorated it, as a gift. My brother was married August 11th. And on Monday, August 28th we welcomed Ella Kate into our world. She is such a joy, so sweet and fun!

Since then, we're just getting used to our new little world. We are enjoying our time being close to family and making new friends. Our world will continue to change as we consider buying some land for building our house.

It has been an amazing year. A year in which our Lord has increased our Faith and our Trust in Him "who is able to do more then we can think or ask"! All glory and honor to Him!

Merry Christmas with LOVE!

2006-12-22T16:27:00.000-06:00

From our blog to yours . . . May the joy of the season surround you!

The Four Hour Photo Shoot

2006-12-22T15:40:00.000-06:00

I have been meaning to record our first photo shoot with both of the girls. It was a month or so ago that we headed to the city to take Ella's first portraits. We had planned to go to the usual studio (which shall be remain nameless) that I had always taken Lucy Anne. Actually, we went to a different location but the same company because I was picking up a friend's portraits for her. Anyway, I had tried to call and set up an appointment but to no avail. So, we loaded the girls and decided to try our luck. And, boy, did we! We showed up at 4:0o and the girl behind the counter said there were appointments in front of us and we would have to wait until 5:00 or so. I let the girl know that I was making my appointment for 5:00. So, my mom , the girls, and me went to the food court for me to feed Ella and kill some time. By the time we got back to the studio the appointment before us was still in session. Let me paint this horrible picture as best I can. There were only two people working . . . and a line out the door for pick ups, customers lined up at the little photo kiosk (sp?) to order their pictures, and a photo session of three girls with multiple outfit changes taking place. Oh, and a phone that wouldn't stop ringing. Five people wouldn't have been able to keep up with the mess, let alone, the two. And . . . there was us waiting our turn patiently with a 2 month old who had eaten an hour before and was ready to go back to her little newborn dreams and her sister, 2 years old, without a nap.

Well, finally, it is our turn to smile! By this point, it is 6:00. The photographer tells me we will have to hurry bc he has an appointment coming at 6:00. I got a bit fired up at that when we were supposed to have been his 5:00 appointment. We, then, argued over the definition of "walk-in" until finally we decided the 6:00 appointment wasn't coming. Nevertheless, to shorten this story, we took our pictures as best we could and managed to leave the mall after 8:00 with four very tired and hungry girls!

I have decided, as a result, to hire my mother. She has always taken my most favorite pictures and it is much more convenient as well as cheaper! You may not even be able to tell a difference!

. . . And She Pondered These Things in Her Heart

2006-12-13T11:06:00.000-06:00

Dear Ella:

It is amazing to see how much you've grown in the past three months! I think it has literally been overnight! Before you, I couldn't see how mothers loved and cared for two or more children. I had so much to give your sister that I didn't know how I would be able to give you the same affection. Isn't our Lord amazing, the way He provides . . . even an abundance of love. It helps me put into perspective His love for so many of His children. I pray the same for you someday: to know and feel a mother's love, to understand and bask in your Father's love, to wonder, with that same love, how it was that God could give up His own Son and then to know that He is God which makes it humanly impossible for us to understand. Thus, the mystery and love of Him!

I wrote this little paragraph soon after Lucy Anne was born and I want to pass the same feeling on to you. . .

I had always dreamed of this day, looked forward to it, had prayed for it, somewhat rehearsed it in the back of my mind . . . I had no idea, though! It is an experience beyond reason, imagination, anything in THIS world . . . to get to see you for the first time, to hold you, to feel your skin, your hands, your feet. . . to fall in love with absolutely every part of you . . . nothing prepared me for all of this . . . AND I AM SO GLAD!

Does Santa take Returns?

2006-12-11T23:20:00.000-06:00

Santa came to church the other night. He gave Lucy Anne some animal blocks (that I bought her). First of all, she wouldn't take the present from him so her Sunday School teacher (Santa's little helper) gave her the present. I'm convinced that she thinks her Sunday School teacher (Mrs. Carol Ann) will be bringing her the rest of her presents on Christmas so she won't have to see Santa again. Anyway, tonight she asked me if she could give her animal blocks back to Santa, she didn't want them.

This Santa list idea I copied from another friend's blog. Her 4 year old's answers were a bit more normal than Lucy Anne's. I think she was just looking around the room for answers but here it is anyway . . .

Dear Santa,

Lucy Anne wants . . .
- A little dolly
- A plate
- A Christmas flower
- Blue Christmas lights

Ella wants . . .
- A dolly (all the dollies)
- A black seat
- A book
- A Bible
- A paper to play with
- A Santa
- A Christmas ceiling (what ?!)

Mom wants . . .
- Santa dolly

Dad wants . . .
- Santa dolly (that he has to share with mom)

Snow Day - Nov. 29, 30, 2006

2006-12-08T14:45:00.000-06:00

There is often so much hype over weather conditions in Oklahoma that I am usually quite skeptical of whether or not their predictions will actually occur. However, I must admit my excitement of being snowed in that I had Justin go to the store to get some hot chocolate, etc. Wednesday night church was cancelled and gave us some fun, family time putting up the tree, reading the Christmas story of Jesus' birth, and hot chocolate with cookies and a fire!!!! Oh, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!!!

So, I kept waiting and waiting for it . . . even early the next morning around 6:00 (after feeding Ella) I peeked outside to see if the ground was covered . . . nothing. Finally, around 9:00 the white stuff started falling. Around noon, both sets of parents called to see if we were experiencing "blizzard-like conditions" like the news had said. About an hour later the blizzard came. It was so beautiful!

Some of our good friends and their two kids came over. Justin and Todd went to the hill to do some sledding. They actually ended up staying the night. We all had such a wonderful time! Great, great memories!

Lucy Anne and Mom's Blessings List

2006-12-07T11:36:00.000-06:00

For a few months now, Lucy Anne and I have started a morning "quiet time" (if you can call it that with a two year old)/Bible study. I was having a hard time fitting my Bible study time in and wanted to teach Lucy Anne to get in the habit of it (since it is such a struggle for me). So, I combined the two and everyday (almost) at breakfast we read from the Little Girls and Mommys Bible. This is a wonderful gift given to us from our dear friend, Jacob Jackson when Lucy turned one! I highly recommend it. It has a Bible story, with pictures, about a woman and then adds questions and applicable story from "mommy's" past. We love it and Lucy Anne asks to read it. Anyway, we had a story about the Israelites receiving the manna from heaven and how thankful they were to God. Therefore, we made our own list and have it hanging on our frig to remind us of our Daily Blessings.

1. Gives food.
2. Gives pencils.
3. Gives bread (manna) to Israelites.
4. Gives rest/sleep.
5. Heals legs that hurt.
6. Heals runny noses, keeps us healthy.
7. Gives us the house - safety, warmth.
8. Gives convenience - cars, "pecuters" (Lucy Anne's word for computers)
9. Gives good hearts to help take care of others.
10. Gives money/jobs.

I have been so surprized at how much I get spiritually out of this time. Some times it is something new and most of the time it is just good to be reminded of the basics! The last blessing . . . 11. The time I have with God and my firstborn. By the way, Ella enjoys the Bible study from her bouncy seat!

Turkey and a Side of Germs

2006-11-27T22:02:00.000-06:00

Let's just say we are thankful for when we're well, this Thanksgiving. As I mentioned before, Ella was sick and had gone to the doctor on Monday. By Tuesday, I noticed Lucy Anne coughing. Just to make sure we were safe for taking our "little germies" to Thanksgiving, I took both girls again to the doctor on Wednesday. Ella wasn't keeping anything down which was due to her antibiotic and gallons of phlegm. Tuesday night she spit up/threw up at least four times . . . everywhere. And I wanted to make sure Lucy Anne didn't have an ear infection. The doctor passed them both to go ahead with our Thanksgiving plans. So, on Thursday, Lucy Anne awakened with fluid pouring from her nose and eyes, coughing/sneezing, etc . . . We almost decided to have Thanksgiving at "New China" but we called around to family for a quick survey to see if anyone would be offended if we brought our sickies with us. We enjoyed a fun-filled day with the Bogg's side of the family which is Justin's mom's side. She has ten other brothers and sisters so there were about 60 people at our Thanksgiving festivities. By the time we left, I was feeling like a horrible mother to allow my sick child play hard out in the Oklahoma wind without a nap. Lucy looked so miserable! Therefore, Friday was spent as a sick day. We spent the day in our pj's watching TV, just laying low. On Saturday, we went to my folks for burgers and to watch the Bedlam game. Poor POKES . . . work on your defense and we'll get 'em next year! Anyway, needless to say, today was another sick day (mainly for me). We're on the mend and thankful for healthy bodies!

Here we go . . .

2006-11-21T16:02:00.000-06:00

Poor, pitiful Ella! Ella has a horrible cold. She can't breathe out of her nose and every time she coughs she gags on what comes up. I didn't really think it was necessary to take her to the doctor since she didn't have a fever and still seemed to be eating okay, but her daddy has been really concerned. He called the nurse twice and actually made the doctor's appointment for her. I ran through the home remedies to our wonderful doctor, for instance, we're using saline drops, propped her bed, suctioning her nose, etc . . . thinking she will say keep doing it, how much is your copay. However, she found that Ella has a double ear infection! Justin asked if we could go ahead and get her tubes now once I told him since we went through this with Lucy Anne. Ella is very similar to her sister in many way including her ears. But, she is different regarding what goes in her mouth. Lucy Anne didn't ever flinch at a bottle, pacifier, or medicine. Ella has issues with each of those things. . . therefore, getting the amoxicillian down her is quite a chore. Whereas, her sister (apparently working on an addiction) made up a sore throat so she she could have some Tylenol the other day. Seriously! I can't wait to see how different and how similar Ella really is to her older sibling.

Fall Festival '06

2006-11-09T13:58:00.000-06:00

We enjoyed a little Halloween fun at our churches Fall Festival. I completed the girls' costumes shortly before the event, so I was just hoping they would stay put together. Lucy Anne didn't love her "petal-headband"; she said it hurt. She was a little timid from the start . . . who knew RaggidyAnn would frighten her? She did a few of the games, won a little candy, and trunk-or-treated some, too. Ella was passed to and fro for those who wanted to hold the little flowerhead. By the way, she didn't love her headgear, either! Thank you to Jenny who took some great pics to help us remember our first Halloween in our new home!

OSU Homecoming 2006

2006-11-01T11:17:00.000-06:00

There is no greater Homecoming at any university than at Oklahoma State! Our homecomings are known nationwide. So, you can imagine the excitement around town and festivities week-long during the wonderful tradition here in Stillwater. We don't have many traditions but this is the greatest! I was so happy to be living here again to experience it and for Lucy Anne to experience it as well. Of course, homecoming is special to me because this is how Justin and I met our Freshmen year. Our houses (sorority and fraternity) were paired up and then within our pledge classes we were paired up as "pomping partners" and Justin and I were put together. And, thus, began our friendship and eventually lifetime pomping partners! Ha Ha

The fraternities and sororities pair up to build big house decks (they look like floats sort of) in front of their houses. Then, at half time of the game the winner is announced. Every year, on Friday, tons of people fill the streets for "Walk-Around" to look at all of the house decks. This year we went with my mom and dad and Landon and Sheree. It was great to share in this tradition with Landon and Sheree who have never been (they're OU people). It is so much fun to run into people you haven't seen in years . . . I ran into a highschool friend who is now a plastic surgeon. Amazing! I always knew he would do something like that.

I love OSU homecoming and look forward to next year! Go Kappas!

Go Pokes!

2006-10-27T15:47:00.000-05:00

Spiders Everywhere

2006-10-27T15:39:00.000-05:00

I've always known that my in-laws had an abundance of spiders. I just never imagined them in my brand new baby's crib. Ella was just a couple of weeks old when I discovered a spider coming out from under the blanket she was sleeping in. I quickly removed her from the bed and then killed the spider being careful not to completely destroy so that I could examine it for whay type of spider. Much to my horror it happened to be a Brown Recluse (Fiddleback). I since have killed several more Fiddlebacks and other spiders both large and small. We've heard that there isn't any easy way to eliminate the Fiddlebacks except for the sticky glue traps. So far the traps have trapped one Fiddleback, lots of crickets and Lucy Anne. Does anyone have any tips on living with these spiders? I now know the true reason why spiders are a mascot for Halloween.

Oh What a Wonderful, Wonderful Day

2006-09-05T15:52:00.000-05:00

"Oh what a wonderful, wonderful day. Day I will never forget . . ." That is the song I was singing to Lucy Anne as we walked around the lake. It was such a beautiful day! The temperature was probably only in the upper 80's to low 90's, the water on the lake was glistening, geese and ducks calling, and a few bright, white clouds in the sky with a cool breeze, and continuous contractions as I walked and walked and walked!!!!

Ella Kate Poe arrived at 8:43 p.m. on Monday, August 28th, weighing in at a whopping 6 lbs. one oz. and 19 inches long.

The day had started with a pre-planned appt. at the O.B. At the appt. a week earlier we had discussed this day might be the day since I was dialated to 4 cm. My doctor had prepped me with the idea that if I had progressed in dialation there could be complications when the baby dropped. Therefore, there could be a need for induction. So, as I stated, Justin and I found ourselves at the appt. awaiting what the outcome would be . . . I was dialated to a 5. I had assumed that when my doctor had mentioned induction that it wouldn't necessarily be my choice or decision. However, she presented us with the dilemma . . . to be induced or not be induced. She felt like either way (on my own or with help) would be successful and didn't want to make it medically necessary, knowing that I had wanted Ella to come on her own. Although, her recommendation was to go ahead and have the baby that day (especially since, in her words, "they had a bed with my name on it"). As you may know Justin and I very well, or even if you don't know us that well, we don't make decisions in a very timely manner. Our doctor left the room to allow us to pray about it (I may have mentioned before our doctor is Justin's cousin's wife) . At first I had decided I would go ahead and induce. All of the medical reasoning seemed to stack positively toward getting the baby out. However, Justin and I had always liked the idea of God's timing, of course. And I was wanting Ella to come the same way Lucy Anne did . . . her delivery was so much fun!!! So, we deliberated and deliberated . . . Finally, doc came back in and said, "okay, go walk around Wal-mart or the lake and come back at 2:00 and I'll check you again". She knew the walking would excite me since she had eliminated excercize from my daily routine. I went home, called the parents, prayed some more, and loaded Lucy up in the stroller for a walk around the lake. I was having contractions continuously but didn't really know if they were "the one's" to get things rolling since I had been having contractions for a month or so. Well, after Lucy Anne and I got home I made her a small bowl of mac and cheese and hopped in the shower (forgetting my lunch). Justin came and picked us up to go back to the doctor, thank goodness he had an extra cheeseburger from McDonalds since it would be my last for a while. This time when she checked me I had dialated to a 6. She sent me immediately to the hospital. I arrived at 2:00, received my epideural around 4:00 and she came to break my water shortly after. All of our parents came and after never really feeling much pain at all, Ella arrived a few short hours later.

When I first saw her, all I could think was how familiar she looked. I had seen her face before . . .she looks just like my baby pictures!

What a blessing! Thank you, Lord, for a truly amazing day! How you hear us when we pray and lead us all the way. Thank you for Ella Kate Poe.

Trying to Fit It All In

2006-08-21T15:09:00.000-05:00

See, I told you would post again soon. . .

It's funny how hormones work when you're pregnant or any other time in a woman for that matter. Boys, I truly believe they rule our lives. Sorry! Anyway, I say that because I feel as though my life will be ending in just a couple of short weeks. It's that way for most pregnant persons I know. They feel the urgency of the baby coming and have to (as if their life depended on it) tie up any loose ends! I've been making phone calls (which is rare for me) and seeing people I haven't seen in a long time, making lists of things to do, cleaning the house as if we've got it up for sale, and bugging Justin to no end to set up the baby crib! Oh, that last one . . . yeah, usually you don't wait until 38 weeks to get your child's room in order! Poor Justin! The hormones are probably about to make him put up his own bed in a different house! However, we did finally cut the lock and drag some more things out of storage. Ella will have her room finished soon, I'm sure!

Lucy Anne has been spending time away at both grandparents this past weekend. It is so very nice to have them only an hour away and in the same area. This has allowed me to get some rest and go to all my hospital/doctor visits. The baby seems to be reactive which is good. I'll know more on Wednesday when I have my next sono and appt. with the doctor. I have been having some pretty steady contractions but they never seem to progress to the point worthy of going to the hospital. It's nice to know that my body is preparing for Ella's departure!

I am so thankful for the peace that can only come from my Father.

My Summer in a Nutshell

2006-08-16T00:42:00.000-05:00

I know it has been a long time since my last post!!! However, it's been a blur of a summer and blogging just wasn't on the top of my list. However, I would like to update any of you who might still check this and to have it for record keeping . . .

Besides this being the absolute hottest summer, EVER, it has also been my busiest in a long time. My goal was to make this summer a quick one knowing how pregnant I was going to be. I believe I have managed to obtain my goal. Even though I have not delivered this baby girl yet, I feel the time is drawing near and am happy to have somewhat of a lull in my schedule (at least on paper). Since my last post, Lucy Anne and I took a Texas Road Trip. We thoroughly enjoyed all that we did! As we crossed the Denton County line I became giddy with excitement to see good friends and how our familiar surrondings there were changing with new Wal-marts and Targets going up just a mile or so away from our old home. Lucy was wanting to move back to her old room with her baby bed in it. We all miss Dallas some and wish we could somewhat combine Dallas with our new home. From Dallas, we visited our good friends in Houston. Lucy Anne and Macey had such a wonderful time together. And I really enjoyed good "Chic Time" with Kim. I think we came home for a week and then went to Red River, NM. The weather and scenery were spectacular! Just what I needed! I finished two great books from Francine Rivers and had lots of time to rest. By the way, I almost ran over a bear that was in the middle of the road while I was driving at 4:00 a.m. to our cabin. We came home and welcomed the Savells to visit for a few days. The following week we kicked the homeowners out (Justin's parents) and moved them to their new home an hour away. We've been bringing our things out of storage and trying to get ourselves settled in as well; all the while, having two sets of good friends, a baby shower for me, and wedding showers for my brother and his fiance (honestly I've never heard of anyone having as many as they did). Last week was my brother's wedding. It was quite beautiful and Lucy Anne was pretty adorable in her "wedding dress". Justin and I were also in the wedding party and I sang. I told Sheree she was pretty brave to devote such vital parts of their wedding to someone whose water could brake on stage. She doubled her odds of "waters breaking" when the bridesmaid who stood in front of me is only due a week behind me. Those in attendance were amused and laughed out loud as the two of us walked down the aisle one after the other. We spent most of the week there to TRY to help mom and dad get ready for it since almost all of it was in their backyard. The Lord gave us the coolest day of the week and we were all very thankful. It truly was a scene out of the movies with a full moon overlooking the pond and the white tent with sparking lights and candles. So beautiful and yet so much work!!! My family and their friends truly displayed unselfish giving of their time and money. We also celebrated my 30th birthday amidst the craziness of the weekend. We were all worn out so there wasn't much partying, but my 30th was duly noted.

So, now we wait . . . actually I went to the doctor today and feel like she will come any day now. We are praying for God's timing as I am being treated for placenta insufficiency. It's hard to know whether or not she's just small or if she's being adequately supplied what she needs to grow. I have had numerous sonograms and am now being monitored regularly at the hospital. Therefore, I feel confident in my care and mostly confident in God. We just finished painting Ella's room so now we must find the key to storage which has been lost to get her baby bed and other furniture to get her room completed. Oh, and did I mention Lucy has 103 degree temp???? Again, God's timing is perfect. I am reminding myself (and so is my husband) to "be still and know that I am God". In His control, His Autority, I trust!

I will try not to wait as long for the next posting of the Poe-tel. By the way, our home here is still a Poetel, so come and visit. We'll keep the light on!

Lucy Anne's "Calling"

2006-05-23T13:40:00.000-05:00

I am learning first-hand what the scriptures mean about "having child-like faith". I know that kiddos Lucy's age are very in tuned to their Lord Jesus. I love how they learn so quickly (just like they've had some time in Jesus' lap) how much their Savior wants to take care of them, where He lives, His job, all about His church, etc . . . So, I've decided to capture some new sayings or stories or shall I say "Beth Moorisms" (because we're convinced she's already being CALLED into the ministry, following in both or her PaPa's footsteps). This journal may also serve as remembrance someday when she's a teenager . . . she may need reminding of her "fist love". Let's pray I never have to be one of those moms.

MeMaw took Lucy Anne out to eat one day at Applebee's and left a tip for the waiter. Lucy Anne quickly picked up the cash and began to take it with her. MeMaw tried to get her to leave the money on the table for the nice person who served them. However, Lucy Anne had a better use for the money. She said, "No, I have to take this money to God."
Lucy Anne went to play with a friend on a trampoline and her friend got hurt. Lucy assured her, "It will be okay, God will heal it".
This past Sunday was difficult in getting Lucy Anne to go to Sunday school. She started the protesting early Sunday morning. She decided to take her Lucy Iris Cabbage Patch doll with her along to church. Daddy asked her to leave the doll in the car while we went to church. She quickly responded in very high pitch . . ."no, Lucy Iris has to worship, too!"

Some more journaling, for me, regarding Lucy Anne's spiritual development . . . It amazes me how she seems to know exactly where heaven is, which I can hardly grasp the concept myself. She loves to sing all of the children's bible songs like Jesus Loves Me, Jesus Loves the Little Children, If You're Happy and You Know It, The Wiseman Built His House Upon the Rock etc . . . A funny one that is her favorite right now is Leaning on the Everlasting Arms! She loves to quote her memory verses that daddy has been teaching her. They have many they are working on but the ones she knows by herself are . . . Genesis 1:1, Psalm 23, Romans 8:1, and God Is Love (wherever that is). She also knows several Bible trivia facts (another bedtime occurrence with daddy). And her prayers are the sweetest incense I've ever heard!

I love her relationship with You, Lord! Please keep her enveloped in Your loving arms, her heart close to Yours, and a SONG on her lips! May she be a servant and may her sweet spirit for You be infectious to everyone around her. Thank you for teaching me how to have a "child-like faith" from my sweet baby girl. In Jesus name, Amen.

The List

2006-05-18T22:00:00.000-05:00

Things I miss about Dallas . . .
(not in any particular order, of course)

1. Target
2. Sam's
3. Sunshine School
4. Prestoncrest
5. our friends
6. Every grocery store (Kroger, Wal-Mart, Tom Thumb, etc.) in a 5 mile radius from the house
7. Every pharmacy or dry cleaner in a 5 mile radius from the house
8. The Mall
9. Scotty P's

Things I love about where I live now . . .
(Again, not in any particular order)

1. NO TRAFFIC, everywhere is just 5 minutes (not joking, really, it's true)
2. Walks around the lake out my back door
3. The birds (red ones, blue ones, lots of them)
4. New friends, old friends, family
5. People just drop in (in Dallas, we never lived that close)
6. The library
7. The parks
8. The Three Amigo's (the Joe's restaurants)
9. The University

There are so many conveniences or options in Dallas. However, I discover you can waist a lot of time there too . . . like, waiting in traffic, waiting in line for a place to eat, etc . . . Both places are so different and yet, I love both of them in their unique ways. I am so happy to have had the experience of living in Dallas. But, I think our move has been good for us. I am proud to call both of them my homes which is why I have both liscence plates still on my car. I just can't totally depart from "Texas, my Texas"! It is where I began life!

Lucy Anne Goes Fishin'

2006-05-18T21:53:00.000-05:00

Justin has been working on a dock at a local lake nearby. So, we've had a few picnics out there. And one day we caught some fish, both me and Lucy! It was a lot of fun!

By the way, I don't normally have such an afro. It was windy that day.

I'm A Crazy Pregnant Person

2006-05-04T22:14:00.000-05:00

I learned very quickly when I was pregnant with Lucy Anne that I am just not very good at being pregnant!!! I also learned how vein I am and how your normal mental state is such a precious commodity! The same is true the second time around, too. However, at least I have the presence of mind (at times) to realize these truths. It helps with the insanity! I will say that this time, there is a little more adjusting to my environment than last time. That is really only a qualifier to make ME feel better, of course!

My sweet husband has tried to assure me that my perception of the way I look is not accurate and that I am so very beautiful. He is sweet! But, there is no way my pregnant brain is going to allow that to sink in, especially because someone told me once that God puts a hormone in men that makes them find their pregnant wives more attactive and sexy. I am a little skeptical about that statement for many reasons . . . one, the source, and two, is it a hormone that is specific to their wives or to all pregnant women? I don't know. I digress. Either way, I don't believe Justin. I did find my cure today, though. Lucy came in the bathroom (this is right after she's had three potty accidents today, a trip to the doctor, and we're trying to hurry to get to Bible study) singing. By the way, I am fixing my hair and thinking I would just like to shave it all off. (Again, nothing makes me happy). Lucy comes in singing and writing her own song as she often does . . . about her mommy being "so cute, so cute, so cute". You can just imagine the prettiest, little melody I ever heard . . . I believed her!!!!

The Hospital

2006-05-03T15:46:00.000-05:00

Our household has taken on a new form these last few weeks. It has been a little out of the ordinary around here. First of all, the rule is true, that no likes for mama to be sick! It really doesn't even have to be your mama; just any mama can throw the nest a twig short. Justin's mom had surgery about two weeks ago. She spent a couple of nights in the hospital and then has been recuperating here at the house since then. I have tried to maintain things as if she were taking care of them, but to be honest, running a household of five is a new challenge for me! Thankfully, last week we had dinner brought to us by members of our congregation so I didn't have to cook every meal. However, I have spent most of my time doing laundry, occasionally assisting her where needed, and, of course, keeping Lucy Anne off MiMi's boo-boo's. With everyday she makes improvement and can't wait to have our MiMi back to normal operating mode!

Sunday night Lucy Anne decided to check in to our little hospital with 105 degree temperature. Monday morning we took her into the emergency clinic and she tested positive for strep. Needless to say, that was a long, sleepless night for us. They gave her a Rocefin (sp?) shot and Amoxicillin and life has been much better for her and for us!

Hopefully, our hospital will be vacant soon! I am ever more cognizant of being thankful for our health! Thank you, Jesus!

It's A Girl . . .We Think!

2006-04-26T15:24:00.000-05:00

We had our mid-pregnancy sono a few weeks ago and everything appears to be healthy and well! The sonographer and I guessed our little active baby is a GIRL!!! I say "guessed" because it didn't appear all that clear. She (sonographer) double-checked and said it is a girl and I said it looked like a girl, so that's what we're going with. The doctor (by the way, is Justin's cousin's wife) said she couldn't tell from the picture. That does leave just a hint of doubt in our minds. However, we have to go back for another sono to see the stomach (she didn't get a picuture of that). Hopefully, we can confirm then.

Lucy Anne is so very excited! Of course, she knew all along she would be having a baby sister!!! She comments all of the time about letting her baby sister borrow her pajamas, her toys, and give her a bath. Oh, and she will also give her some of her bananas "when she gets born"! Lucy Anne prays for her Baby Ella with every prayer! Yes, that is the name we have chosen. We haven't quite decided on a middle name yet. My favorite part of this pregnancy is Lucy Anne's interaction with my belly! She is so very sweet to her baby sister already! She is such a little mother! Poor Ella will certainly get double the bossing around!

A little tangent . . . as I mentioned my doctor is Justin's cousin's wife. I am so thankful to have lived a fairly clean life (by God's grace)! You are very aware of that when you have to answer the "doctor questions" about sexual diseases and partners and drugs and so on. I told her how very thankful I was when she informed me my chlamydia/gonnorhea test came back negative! It was funny to me, anyway!

Bible Class Easter Egg Hunt

2006-04-09T15:30:00.000-05:00

Lucy Anne has adapted very well to her new life in our new town. At first, I thought it could be a challenge since she threw a crying fit in her new Bible class (which is totally unlike her) but they pulled out the playdough and she quickly felt she would be okay! Needless to say, she loves her teachers in Bible class (they're a lot like her MiMi and MeMaw) and she has so many new friends!!! She has already had some play dates with a lot of them. I can tell that she sometimes gets her life and friends in Dallas mixed up with her new life here (so does her daddy but that's another story altogether). Anyway, today, I picked her up from Children's Church and they said she was chasing and following her new friend Avery around but calling her Hannah (a Dallas friend). They told her that Avery's name wasn't Hannah but Avery and she argued back with them. This is funny to me since we see Avery a lot and she has always called her Avery, until today. Yesterday, however, in the car she was talking about Hannah and Hailey. So, she must be missing them very much. Some other flashbacks to our old home is that she talks about how "in tomorning (that's a cross between in the morning and tomorrow, I think) she is going to go see Mere-Mere and Brad". Also, I got her a new swimsuit which she refuses to take off and she told me she was going swimming and jumping with Chandler. These precious little comments just brake my heart! However, I know she loves it here too! She is such an expressive and affectionate little girl. I always feel bad for her new little friends when she runs up to hug and kiss them. She literally knocked a girl over today and then helped her up and said, "I am sorry. I didn't mean to knock you over." So, that's how I know she loves it here!

Her Bible class had an Easter Egg hunt that was so much fun!!! Tons of eggs and candy . . . they even had rice crispy treats on a stick and little plastic bunnys and chicks filled with candy eggs! And Lucy never lets me tell what they had without mentioned that they had LIMONADE!!!

I am so thankful she has adjusted well!!!

Perils in Potty Training

2006-03-29T14:38:00.000-06:00

I have heard and read so many suggestions on potty-training that it is hard to filter through what will really work. Isn't that what we want as parents though, a manual to explain how our kid works? How to make them do exactly what we want them to do, and when they don't . . . we can just hit the power button. I digress. Anyway, I wanted this to be an easy thing to do. I didn't want it to be this long drawn out thing which takes months to accomplish. Oh, and I also had my rathers about it. I didn't really want Lucy Anne to learn on a little potty, I wanted her to sit on a smaller potty seat on the toilet, and so on and so forth. Well, when she turned two. The MiMi and the MeMaw bought her some panties and a little potty. Ugh, you some how feel the pressure . . . I thought she didn't seem ready. So, I delayed, until one day MiMi introduced the little potty to Lucy Anne. That weekend back in November, she did really well, mostly pooping in the potty. Overall, I think she enjoyed the freedom of running around without any clothes on (at least waist down). By the way, she must get that from her daddy. So, we came back to Dallas and tried at home but she seemed to have lost some motivation and honestly, I had to. To my defense, we did have a few things going on. So, when we moved here, I viewed it as my chance to really buckle down and try again. We did . . . and she could care less! Didn't even want a treat and told me that! Okay, I was right. She isn't ready. That is again what I thought until I talked to a friend here who has a little girl who is 3 months older than Lucy Anne and is potty trained. She said it wasn't something her little girl wanted to do but eventually gave in to the M & M's. Well, Lucy started wanting to go potty in public restrooms! What a whip! That made my mind up! We aren't going to pull down pantyhose, panties, and a diaper for her to sit on the potty for two seconds! Let the Bootcamp begin! We went and got some panties and now we potty in the potty! Let me also add that I done a lot of praying!

Some funny details about her learning to potty have been: when she goes to any potty (at home or out) she puts toilet paper on the seat for sanitary reasons (OCD, yes, she gets that from me) . . . also, one day I was trying to explain to her about the feeling you get before you go in your panties that tell you to go to the potty. I asked her if she ever felt that and she said, "maybe I do, maybe I don't!" She can't get enough of flushing the toilet and washing her hands. And . . . putting her panties back on herself is a lovely (but R-rated) sight!

Thank you for enduring all of my details. I know it is more than necessary, but I want to capture the thoughts for the next time we go through this . . . I know, it will be totally different!

So Much Has Changed Since I Last Blogged

2006-03-22T08:32:00.000-06:00

It feels nice to be back in the blogging world again! I had forgotten how to do it!

Wow! So much has changed for us since my last entry! Where do I begin . . . Let me start with saying that all of our "life changes" over the past three months were carefully considered and prayed about before they started occurring. Here were the issues before us - a new car (one with low gas mileage and one within our budget), moving either to smaller towns out of state, or just somewhere else in the metroplex, and a baby. Obviously, these are not small potatoes, so we were carefully planning, in the Lord's time, when and how these might take place!

Starting in early December, we decided to just see what was on the lots of car dealerships. Believe me, I have worked with Justin Poe before on buying cars and know that spending a large amount of money (really even small amounts of money) can take centuries (at least in my world) to happen. So, I was not expecting anything to happen in the next year. However, much to my surprise, we found an SUV (one not with low gas mileage) on the second time we "looked". This was truly amazing to me. This event was quite counter to true Justin Poe fashion. However, I am not complaining!!! I like my new car!

We had a wonderful Christmas vacation, skiing in Colorado and spending time with family! We came home the day before New Year's Eve. And . . . that morning we found out Lucy Anne was going to have a new baby sister or brother. We have joked many times that it was buying the SUV that set this in motion!

Finally, our last item that had not been taken care of, was moving. We decided to put our house up for sale "just to see what happens" on January 12th. Our realtor told us the houses in our neighborhood were selling an avg. of 90 days. We expected that long for sure. Our house sold in TWO WEEKS!!!! Shocking! We made some quick provisions and moved out of state two weeks later!

I firmly believe all of this was God's timing! We couldn't have planned things this quick if we thought the world was ending tomorrow. Most of you know, Justin and I are NOT quick to do anything!!!!! God has totally taken care of every detail!

We miss our friends and the things we were used to doing back in Texas. There are so many conveniences there that we don't have here. But, we have family now, literally in the next room, and down I35, and many familiar and new friends to surround us. Have I mentioned the pace here is much more to our beat of the drum . . . SLOW! Just the way we like it! I even have time to BLOG!

O-State Homecoming

2005-11-01T08:28:00.000-06:00

How 'bout those Pokes!!!! We travelled to good 'ol Stillwater this past weekend for our homecoming. We had a wonderful time getting together with our friends and family. The weather was nice enough to spend a lot of time at Walkaround (looking at all of the Greek house's "house decks" where they basically make big floats in front of their houses). . . . a little history . . . that is how Justin and I met, our Freshmen homecoming, we were Pomping Partners for our house's homecoming house deck . . . Anyway, Saturday was a relaxing day. For some reason, we couldn't carry out plans no matter how hard we tried. We were trying to catch back up with all of our friends, but everyone's schedules never played out, so we decided to just catch up with them later. Justin and I had decided we didn't want to waste our money on a "blow out" game . . . Texas stomping us . . . whose idea was it anyway for us to host Texas (#2 ranked when we're the bottom (behind Baylor even) of the Big 12 for homecoming. . . So, we finally found a place to watch the game at another friend's house. What a totally unexpected first half!!!! If only football games were two quarters long, we would have beat those Longhorns. I heard it said on Sunday that we tied . . . we won the first half, they won the second! But, not surprizing, OSU is hardly ever a second-half team! Coach Gundy needs to run those boys hard!!!! We need some conditioning for the long haul. Okay, enough about my expertise in coaching football. I must say, however, the game re-established my hope in Cowboy football and my confidence in Gundy (by the way, he's from my home-town so I owe a little loyalty to him)! Sunday was a good day at church, pot-luck lunch and everything. After Lucy Anne's nap, she and Papa played in the leaves he piled for her.

Go Pokes! Let's get 'em next game!!!!

Daddy/Daughter Camping Trip

2005-10-24T15:46:00.000-05:00

This weekend was quite a busy one for us!!! I had already committed myself to Bunko and a garage sale, so Justin saw this time as a great opportunity to take Lucy Anne on her first camping trip! Wow, I thought. Have you thought this through . . . taking a 21 month old, alone, camping??? Really, I thought she would have the best time. I was only concerned about the sleeping arrangements. It's not everyday she sleeps in a tent. So, I suggested the Pack'n'Play, but he opted for a good ol' pallet on the tent floor. They left Friday evening around 5:00 and apparently had to park and walk to the campsite (two trips). Thank you to the gentleman who helped them. Anyway, it was near dark when Justin began setting up the tent. There is a fire ban, so Justin used his camping lantern and little stove to boil hot dogs and roast marshmallows. He says she prefers her marshmallows unroasted. Finally, they went to sleep around 10:30 in the tent. Then at 12:30, she awakened, "squalling" (as Justin put it). The next hour was an up 'n' down, try to figure out what will work to get her to go back to sleep and not wake up the whole camp ground, ordeal. Justin actually told me he wondered if maybe this wasn't the best idea . . . I tried not to laugh and tell him "I told you so." Eventually, she went back to sleep and they got up before the "sun woke up". The only part of the story that you will get from Lucy Anne is that she and Daddy yelled at the sun to wake up. The rest of the morning was spent playing around in the woods before they came home to take a nap.

Our next event on the weekend agenda was to our Small Group Bible Study Halloween Party. Lucy Anne went as a strawberry and Justin was Uncle Ricco from Napoleon Dynamite. We had a great time . . . good food, a bounce house, pumpkin crafts, face painting, treats, swings, a pumpkin hunt, and good friends! Kristen really out-did herself!!!

God's Winking

2005-10-19T14:35:00.000-05:00

Let me tell you a very interesting thing that just happened to me. I was trying to get to my friend Kristen's blog and "accidentally" pulled up someone else's blog instead who has sort of the same blog title. So I read her most recent posting (which was only her second total). It was about coincidences in life. The kind, for instance, where you are in Keystone, CO in the Gap Outlet, about to check out, and an old college friend (one that I had just heard from Dad the week prior had resigned at his church, which my Dad found out from the Baptist Messenger) . . . again, all very random, but adds to the circumstance, I think . . . bumps into me while I wasn't looking. He and his wife had decided to come up for a little vacation while in between jobs. They were staying in Breckinridge (at least 20 or 30 minutes from where we were) and came to shop at the outlet mall. I was able to get the details from him about his job and found out that they were possibly moving to Dallas. Now, that kind of thing is exactly what this girl was talking about on her blog. She called them, God's Winks, which I like. She went on to talk more about it, but not necessarily in a spiritual fashion. She was discussing it as if life is like a computer which we are all programmed by and raised the question . . . Is it God (to paraphrase)? It caused me to think a little more about what I believe . . .

Of course, I believe, that God has a reason/purpose for everything . . . BIG. But, do I believe that the small "coincidences" are for His purpose, too? This is how I responded . . .I do believe that God is very interested in our daily lives. It is for the MYSTERY of Him that He plans these "coincidences" (as we like to call them) so that we believe He is very present, that He exists (especially to the non-believer), and that He is in control. He made us that way . . . to wonder - that is, to fill the void that is within all of us without Him, to bring the truth before our very eyes. And, I believe, that He purposes everything for His divine Glory!

Her blog reminded me that God is in to details, even my details! . . . was it an accident that stumbled on to her blog?????

Lucy Anne's Safe Return

2005-10-18T14:25:00.000-05:00

I picked up Lucy Anne Friday evening! I am so glad to have her home with us!!! We have had some wonderful, quality time over the past few days. I have enjoyed playing with her and talking to her. It's amazing how much her vocabulary has grown while she was gone. She has picked up and keeps picking up new sentences and phrases all of the time. Right now, my favorite is . . . "Papa's Pumpkin Patch". My dad has organized a pumpkin patch at their church which they set up while Lucy Anne was staying with them; so every time she sees a pumpkin she says "Papa's Pumpkin Patch". She is, by the way, in to assigning possession to everything and most of it is HER's! I have been so tired of hearing her say "MINE" that now when she asks me or says "MINE", I tell her, "No, that is God's and He is sharing with us". She has responded pretty well to it, I think. However, it confuses her a bit and then asks, "where is God". I told her things like, "God is in heaven" and "in your heart" . . . she looked at me insistently and said "God's at church". I agreed, thinking, I can't get much passed her. I am always amazed how much these little sponges know! Anyway, thanks mom and dad, for keeping her. She talks about her time with you a lot.

Speechless - But Random

2005-10-11T19:22:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that it has been so long since I've written. I apologize to my mother who has complained! Sorry, Mom. To be honest, there hasn't been much to write about. We've just been busy with every day living. However, this past weekend Justin's whole family came to town to celebrate his dad's birthday. What a wonderful time we had. Lucy Anne and I had MiMi and PaPa all to ourselves on Friday and spent the day just talking and going to the mall. We, of course, had a great meal and drinks from Sonic. I feel bad subjecting them to my addiction. Yet, they enable me in it every time they come . . . which I love!!! That night, we went to GattiTown for Lucy. Last time we went she loved the boat and the carousel. This time she cried on the boat and the horses were broke. Poor Lucy Anne! But, I coersed Justin into riding the Virtual Roller Coaster. I loved it and laughed the whole time at Justin who wasn't feeling too well. Anyway, on Saturday the whole Fam packed the cars and caravanned to see Justin's house he's building. They were impressed, for his first house. Then, we had his dad's birthday dinner (after much deliberation) at McDonald's. We came back to our house to have cake and ice cream. Then, Lucy Anne and MiMi and PaPa left to go to OKC to trade Lucy to my parents. I cried. I did. So weird, how I've been thinking about taking Lucy to the parents alone and let me get some stuff done. I was excited to have some time for productivity yet when the time came, I cried. I have gotten quite a bit done! I miss her though. We've talked to her every night and she is having a blast! Can't wait to get her back. Well, back to the cleaning! Sorry for the boring blog. Truth is, life is a little less funny and exciting without my little one!

Lucy Anne's Imaginary Friends

2005-10-01T15:31:00.000-05:00

Who are John and Bobby? Lucy Anne has been talking to these guys on the phone and then, the other night she prayed for John. I don't recall her really knowing anyone by these names. Obviously, she has picked them up somewhere and they must have made quite an impression.

My Favorite Time of Day

2005-10-01T14:31:00.000-05:00

This post is inspired by my friend Alyssa's post on her blog.

My favorite time of day is Lucy Anne's bedtime! And, no, it's not because she's about to go to bed. I love it because of her bedtime routine. I love it that she calls it "night-night time" already, too. Justin and I are habitual in getting her ready for bed, and I never want to put her to bed without our time together. For instance, the day she goes to college will be her first time to experience "night-night time" any differently. At least, that's the way her I see it.

Here's why I love it. . . First, I change her diaper and put her "jammies" on. Justin brushes her teeth (and has taught her to spit)! He brings her to me to sing to her two songs in her chair. I sing "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" (she sings a solo on the Amen part, steals my heart every time - it is angelic, in her soprano voice) and "Night-Night Lucy". "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" has kind of become a theme for us, and I hope she grows up knowing and cherishing that verse and song. By the way, we cuddle each other (another favorite part) with her *blanket (see below) and pink Bible in hand. When we're finished she usually yells to Daddy "I'm ready!" Then Daddy comes in and we say our prayers together as a family. I give kisses and hugs and Daddy takes over with memory verses and Bible stories. The memory verses are hilarious and so sweet. Justin says the words and she repeats them. Right now, she is learning Genesis 1:1 and Romans 8:1 (cracks me up that Justin chose this one - I don't even know that I grasp this one totally). But, it is funny to hear her say the word "condemnation". Finally, she is put in bed, usually, without a sound. We have done this, although Justin has added the story time as she's become older, since the day she was born. I wish there were a way to pause time. Like Mary, Jesus' mother, I ponder this time in my heart.

*The Blanket Thing - Lucy Anne has only, always slept with a pink crocheted blanket that was given as a gift. She's never really seemed to be overly attached to it. She's just always had it at night and at nap times. However, when school started (there are some kids who have blankies in her class), she started wandering around the house with the tea towel off the stove saying "my blankie". So, rather than her walking around with the tea towel (yuck), I gave her a blanket that MY memaw -Lucy (Lucy Anne's name-sake) had partially sewn for my child before she passed away. My memaw died when I was 8. This blanket is also a replica of the same one I had when I was little. Lucy Anne is completely attached to it! She would carry it everywhere if I let her. Isn't that special?! Again, I cherish these things (in my heart and on my blog).

Please Change the Fashion Code

2005-09-27T21:44:00.000-05:00

I have talked about this with so many of my friends that I have decided to blog about it. I am actually convinced it needs to be a published book. I was motivated to write when I caught, sporadically, Laguna Beach and saw how awful those girls looked and that it has even crossed over into swimsuit wear. The girls really look like they bought their swimsuits 3 sizes too small.

To begin . . . the fashion code I am talking about changed some time during the 9 months I was pregnant with Lucy Anne. You know, the "wear-your-pants-so-low-I-can-see-your-underwear" fashion statement. Britney Spears, I would love to have a sit-down chat with you (for many reasons)! First of all, I believe it was meant to be a sexy thing to see your underwear (and, no, Brit doesn't wear Granny Panties) but not everyone wears her type of underwear. And I would like to meet the guy who thinks Plumber's crack is sexy (to put it quite bluntly). I also don't think that bulging hips and belly are sexy either which is another side effect of the low-low wasted pants.

As I mentioned, the style changed somewhere during pregnancy. So, after finally getting rid of my maternity clothes, that I happened to wear a bit longer than 9 months, I went shopping for some new jeans. A higher wasted jean that doesn't make you look like an 80's mom, who can find? So, I went with the more teeny-bopper style because I was so paranoid of "looking like a mom". I got the jeans home and discovered I had no long-wasted shirt to cover those gorgeous, bulging hips and belly! At first, I thought all of this was just because I was "in between" my pregnant weight and my old, girlish figure. However, I have noticed this style looks good on you only if you are anorexic. Ladies, we need to revolt!!! For the sake of our precious baby girls! Not that Lucy Anne will be wearing this style any time soon, but it WILL COME BACK!!! Some how we must erase it from the fashion history pages! I am sure I am a lot of talk . . . I will continue to wear my somewhat low-waisted jeans (what choice do I have) and always remember to pull my shirt down and my jeans up before sitting down. Is there a compromise?!!

Lucy Anne's New Favorite Phrases

2005-09-27T14:21:00.000-05:00

Lucy Anne has two new phrases she says. . . "Whoa, Dude" and "Oh goodness". The other day we were shopping and an old man cleared his throat, coughed, hacked up a lung, not sure . . . Either way, I was thinking, "disgusting" but Lucy Anne said it much nicer, out loud . . . "Oh goodness"! Made me laugh!

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Another funny thing she said was while I was trying to put her in her car seat. She didn't want to go and was throwing a fit. Finally, I wrestled her down to where I could fasten the seatbelt and she pointed to the car ceiling and said, "I want God!" In disbelief at what she had just said, I asked if she said "I want God?" and she said "yes" quite emphatically. Of course, I thought, well, He is the only one who can save you now!

Even the Angels are Celebrating

2005-09-24T14:41:00.000-05:00

I FINALLY HAVE MY OWN CELL PHONE!!!! A little background . . . since Justin went out on his own (in business) one of the ways we cut cost was to get rid of my cell phone. And many of you know how many different home phone changes we've had over the past year. In McKinney, you are long distance with just a local number which is what we had for a while. Then, we decided to pay for a metro-line (change in phone number) so that we wouldn't have to pay long distance every time we wanted to call our friends or even a mile down the road. So, then, we heard about Vonage (phone over IP -internet) and decided to get that (another change in phone number). However, for some reason our cable or modem or something keeps coming disconnected, so then we are temporarily out of a phone connection (as well as internet). Oh, and if by chance you call and our line happens to be working you will get the FAX on the third ring, because we haven't figured out how to work the fax and answering machine together. All that to say, you can never get ahold of us (or ME). Justin has his cell phone so people can get him. I apologize to all of my friends and family who have cussed me and the phone in trying to reach me! I also apologize to the poor lady who has our old number. Many of you have told me about her. I know the Angels are happy because they have been working overtime to keep us safe. Thank you, my heavenly Father, for protecting us always but especially while I have been inconvenienced without a cell phone. I really couldn't have imagined being broken down or in an accident with Lucy Anne or Hailey or Hannah in my car twice a week. Even being home with these sweet, precious children and no phone line was driving me crazy! So, we can all rest assured, I now have access to the outside world in case of emergency or if you just want to chat. What did we do in the ancient days of a world without cell phones?????

Rita, The Big Tease!

2005-09-24T14:07:00.000-05:00

Flash a big red sign saying NO VACANCIES at the Poetel. We have had the visitors lately . . . and we love it!!! We were actually a shelter for some Houston Evacuees this past week! Yes, our good friends the Savells left Wednesday at 8:00 pm to brave the parking lot, I-45. They finally arrived at our house at 4:30 am Thursday morning. They said they stopped for only five minutes. Thankfully, Macey did great, though. Poor Rita, she just turned out to be a big tease. And isn't it weird how disapointed you are when the hurricanes fizzle out. I am thankful that we didn't have another huge disaster on our hands, but there is a little bit of you that is disapointed. I don't really understand it, but all of us here agreed we felt the same way. However, Rita turned out to be a wonderful excuse for the Savells to come see us!!! We had a great time!

The Solution to my Not-So-Perfect Days

2005-09-21T14:32:00.000-05:00

As I alluded to on some previous postings, my days have been less than easy lately! Besides a busy schedule, I have not had much energy (less than normal and have had plenty of sleep). I have been downright irritable for absolutely no reason and just feeling a little bit "blue". I know, I know, I hear your assumptions . . . and no I am NOT pregnant! I have discovered I am just malnourished - spiritually! I had ended a wonderful study on the Apostle Paul and for lack of direction (I like guided Bible studies) and being too busy, neglected any biblical ingestion. Yesterday, I started my day (first thing) with a devotional (provided by Beth Moore - online). How refreshing! Afterwards, I immediately had more energy than the previous week combined. I was so productive, got so many things accomplished and had plenty of time to spend QUALITY time with Lucy Anne (she's doing better on her colors, by the way). I hope I have learned my lesson AGAIN. I hate it when God has to teach me things over and over. All along I had been thinking I needed to change my physical diet, but what I needed to do was bulk up on my spiritual diet! Too bad I don't need to bulk up physically! Ha Ha

While I Was Out

2005-09-17T11:46:00.000-05:00

While Dad and I were on our walk . . . Justin changed our profile. Can't trust him with anything.

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Here are some new pics (some also occurred while I was out and some of the others are from last night). Also, there are some of Lucy Anne in her time-out corner. How can I effectively discipline my child, after she hit me, if my mother is taking a picture? There I am asking Lucy if she knows why she is in time-out while she is looking at MeMaw and saying "CHEESE"!

Meet Uncle Buck (Our Profile Pic)

2005-09-17T11:27:00.000-05:00

Won't Be Eating Today, Tomorrow, or . . .

2005-09-17T09:15:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in yesterday's posting, my Mom and Dad came to visit. As usual, the day was filled with lots and lots of "treats" (as I like to put it). They spoil me with treats when they come, which is why I have a daily treat addiction (a.k.a. Sonic)! The treats started early morning with the SIX DOZEN Krispy Kreme donuts (not at all an exaggeration) I have sitting in my kitchen. They came from our Parents and Pastries party at Sunshine School. We had tried to accurately guess how many donuts we would need but I guess we were way off. So many other people took some boxes too. And I don't know how I ended up with SIX DOZEN! Anyway, I digress . . . I started out with just a bite or two of the donuts (so I thought I was doing well). Then we left the house and dropped by our "morning drink stop" Sonic. However, they were out of the normal cherry we put in our DIET Cokes so they put slushy cherry. ICK!!! We took them back but they were just no good. So we didn't really drink those. We had to run some Cordray Candle (mom's business) errands and then we went to Pizza Hut for lunch. Again, I tried to be somewhat disciplined but I faltered a little bit. (I"ll try not to go into all of the details of what I ate, simply because you probably don't care and I am notorious for getting made fun of for all of those unwanted details I tell in my stories). However, it kills not to tell you all of it. Moving on with the GLUTTON TRAIN . . . We came back home for all of us to take a nap and when Dad and I couldn't sleep we decided to do some more runnin' around. This, of course, included a second trip to a '"better" Sonic for our drinks. Sorry Mom, we left you out! AAAHHH! Finally, the fix I needed at last! We did some shopping and then called everyone else (Mom, Justin, Lucy Anne, and Uncle Landon) to meet us at the mall (since we were already there) to eat at Cheesecake Factory. Brilliant idea, we thought! Again, trying to be disciplined, Dad and I split some funky-named chicken dish. Very good! But, we ate off everyone else's plate, too! Then, we indulged, and I mean indulged, in the best dessert I have ever had!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think the name of it was White Chocolate Latte Cheesecake. Words cannot describe! As if that wasn't enough for the day or even a week, we later (after a stroll around the mall) had a White Chocolate Coffee drink from Starbucks! Can you believe all of that?! So, to sum all of this up, Dad and I are going off right now for a 10 mile walk!

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Does anyone know how to turn on my links? I tried to follow instructions in Help but it didn't work or I'm not doing it right.

A Great Laugh is Good For Your Health

2005-09-16T09:08:00.000-05:00

I have felt like these last few weeks have been so unbelievably hectic. Just running from here to there all the time and having to say to Lucy Anne, "Hurry, we need to HURRY". It can tend to wear on your emotions! Last night, I had the best laugh I've had in a long time . . . all at Justin's expense (Poor Thing)! It was one of those laughs Iremember having at the end of a very long week in high school after three funerals of my friends who had died in a car wreck. The kind of laugh that you forget what you're laughing at and it just feels so good to laugh. However, this laugh was the result of Justin crashing on his Rasor scooter in the street. We had decided to go on walk, the three of us. I was pushing Lucy Anne in the stroller and Justin was going to ride his scooter (in his flip flops) which I had already questioned him about. It had just rained, too. So, as we're leaving the garage he says, "I'll probably run over my toe." And the next thing I know he had ramped off the driveway, popped-a-wheely, and landed spralled out on the street. I, of course, asked him if he was okay several times before literally rolling on the ground laughing! Again, it felt so good to laugh! He has some pretty ugly scrapes and bruises but no broken bones.

My mom and dad are here today. We're going to enjoy the day playing with Lucy and probably a few Sonic drinks as well.

You and Me up in the TREES

2005-09-13T22:03:00.000-05:00

That's for you, Justy! (the title) And for all of you who watch Rock Star INXS. We LOVE it! We are usually avid American Idol watchers, but this show is so much better! These people are true professionals! "Trees" should be on the radio and we vote for Marty. I'm afraid J.D. may get the job, though. It's alright, he's good musically. He just needs some of Marty's cool. I guess we'll find out next week on the finale!

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Let me just squash any rumors my daughter may have started . . . we are not having a baby sister. Lucy Anne just told her MeMaw and PaPa she was "habing a baby sister". She has been a little excited for all of her friends who are getting baby brothers and baby sisters and she thinks she should get one too. However, she'll have to wait a little bit. We went to see a brand new baby brother of one of her friends at the hospital and she kept wanting to hug him and see him. Funny, too, how she only wants a baby sister . . .

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By the way, thank you to the teachers at Ladies Class today who allowed Lucy to stay in the 3's class with Chandler. She really enjoyed it!

CRRRAAAZZZYYY Day!

2005-09-12T21:55:00.000-05:00

I don't even know where to start with this crazy day! Only those at Sunshine School can understand the chaos there and I won't go into all of it (see Kristen O'Quinn's blog, Tales from the Zookeeper). Just nuts! But, I really do hope all of the girls who were sick today, feel better! I hurried home to begin cleaning the house (in shambles after a weekend out of town) because a friend was coming for dinner. So, I cleaned, Lucy watched "shows". Justin came home which allowed me to run to the store for just a few necessary items (like things to go with our meal, not THOSE "necessary items"). Thankfully, a few of us girls have decided to make our own Super Suppers and trade so all I had to do was pop a casserole (thanks to Kristen) in the oven. It was delicious, by the way! Anyway, dinner and house were ready, Lucy is hungry, and friend arrives. We were preparing to sit down, almost, when I received a phone call from a friend. And the craziness just didn't stop. What a busy day. However, I am thankful for all the wonderful things that happened today, like seeing kids laugh and play while watching me act like a monkey in P.E., looking at my baby girl SLEEP on her nap mat (first day to use it at school). So proud of her. Good friends had a new baby and other friends are okay after being sick. Just counting my blessings, thankful to be kept safe by Him and loved by many. Night-Night!

Poor Planning Pays Off

2005-09-11T22:38:00.000-05:00

I am sure you were on the edge of your seat in suspense waiting to find out what we did this weekend. We left Friday afternoon and headed to Houston to spend the weekend at the home of the Savells! They actually let us in the door! We had a wonderful time as we always do just being around each other. We made no plans once we got there and the only time I left their neighborhood was to take a drive through The Woodlands and to go to church. We, girls, played with the little girls and watched movies while Justin and Chad played video games. Isn't Macey beautiful! Thanks, Chad and Kim for a great time!

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Happy Birthday, Uncle Landon!

Love, Lucy Anne and her parents!

Conversations with a 20 month old!

2005-09-08T20:50:00.000-05:00

Tonight on our walk we saw a dog. Lucy Anne started yelling and calling to the puppy, "My puppy". I told her that it wasn't her puppy. Of course, she disagreed until I finally convinced her it wasn't our puppy. Then, she started asking "Where is MY puppy, Mommy?" Then, I have to tell her you don't have puppy . . . over and over and over again! After she realized she doesn't have a puppy (only pretend puppies) she wants to know "WHY?" And I finally realize why I was always answered the way I swore I wouldn't answer . . . . . . . . . . . . "BECAUSE"!

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Also, on our walk, I have graduated in names. My name started out as Mama, then Mommy, then sometimes she calls me Honey (not really sure why unless she picked up from Justin), and tonight she called me just plain ol' MOM!!!!!!

Poor Planning, Our Middle Name

2005-09-08T17:55:00.000-05:00

I am currently in limbo awaiting our decision on what to do this weekend. Justin is notorious for being indecisive, especially about making plans. He always wants to wait until the VERY last minute to make committments (to assess what he really wants to do most, I guess). Either way, once again we have a million options and no set plans. A little background . . . the Savells (friends who lived in Dallas and moved to Houston) called months ago to make plans for the weekend to go to the lake in Conroe. We finally nailed Justin down to a weekend (this weekend), sort of, because he still leaves a 10% chance that he won't be able to make it because of the Forney house he's trying to finish. He truly is swamped with work! Halelujah! Anyway, he decides along with other friends that he needs to go help in Mississippi and then proceeds to try to convince Chad Savell that he'll come pick him up in Houston and leave Lucy Anne and I there with Kim and Macey. However, it will only end up that the boys will be actually helping in MS for one day due to other committments and driving time. On the other hand, if Justin decides not to go to MS, we will stay here because of the 10% rule and he needs to work. Poor Savells! They will learn not to try to make plans with us! As it stands now, we are not leaving tonight because Justin is STILL not home! Who know what tomorrow holds!

Colorado Trip with MeMaw and PaPa

2005-09-08T16:47:00.000-05:00

I've Conformed

2005-09-08T16:18:00.000-05:00

Well, I've decided to join the ranks in the world of "blogging". I've decided this mainly because it is a good way for me to journal and assure Lucy Anne's MiMi/MeMaw and PaPas (that's PaPa plural - she calls them both PaPa) that I AM "writing this stuff down". However, I feel so intimidated by all my wonderful friend's blogs. How will I ever measure up to Lane Fout's "Tag" or to the Mayo's anniversary blog about their love for each other and the list goes on and on . . . I can only tell you that in the Poe household there are bound to be stories told as a result of how well we communicate, make quick decisions (do anything quickly for that matter), and how graceful at life we are! Ha Ha

Just so you know . . . the name of my blog is a play on words that probably doesn't make any sense. Anyway, we call our home the Potel because we have many guests and this, our blog, is our story to "tell".