Sickness

Ever since the kids had their double eye infections they seemed to have caught something else.  Lucy is just a spout for snot still and both kids still have a pretty nasty cough.  Poor Duder got the worst of it though right before Christmas.  We kept telling us his stomach hurt and he really didn't want much to eat.  He then got a fever and was so lethargic it was like we had somebody else's kid.  On Christmas we drove to Ingrid's and we had to stop 3 times for the poor guy.  He did make the best out of the situation though.

The first stop there was another person in the bathroom but Duder wanted to use the urinal.  He calls them trees because at the library Gaetan was trying to get him to go to the bathroom and told him that they're like peeing on trees outside.  So that's what he calls them... however you can't poop in them.  I think they frown upon that.  But he was just talking up a storm in the bathroom about his little endeavor and the other person thought it was hilarious.  I'm glad that things like poop don't embarrass little kids.  :)

And I think that part of Lucy's snotty nose is that she is cutting MORE teeth.  Poor girly is having a pretty rough time with it too.  She gets up more frequently at night time and she definitely is more touchy during the day.  More cuddly and doesn't like being on the floor to play as much as she usually does.  It's been a bit of an adjustment, but knowing what she's going through (and that she's not just being a cranky pants) helps too.

Gaetan hasn't been feeling the greatest this week either.  Nothing like what the kids have, but that definite under the weather, not functioning at 100%.  Its hard when that happens during your 'break', but probably its because we fill our break up with so much stuff!  Here's to hoping everybody will get better soon and that we are on track for the New Year.

JVG

Late night talks

One of my favorite times of day is after the kids go down and Gaetan and I get to hang out... just us.  That has been one of the most important things for us to do is to make sure that we have 'us' time.  It's so easy just to get wrapped up in the busyness of life, kids and then just wanting to fall down at the end of the day. But, I'm glad that we can keep this up :)  It's a really nice time to catch up and really talk.  Of course we talk through the day but we don't get to have those deep important talks because most of the time they're interrupted.

With the holiday season around and having to spend more time with family there has been a lot on our minds.  I'm still struggling with how to deal with Ingrid, and show her grace while not exposing my children to unnecessary things.  I know that Gaetan is still trying to figure out what role his family plays in ours.  And, because it's the holidays, we're forced to spend more time with them than we would probably actually like to.

We got to spend some time talking about what our future holds... and how exciting it really is.  We are very content with where our lives are right now.  We are where we have to be for school, and the community around us is great for the kids.  Of course we're still talking/deciding about home-schooling or not (but we're leaning more towards yes) and the importance of having fellow believers around us.  Right now, we pretty much just hang out with each other (which is great and fine) but we are definitely seeing the need for other believers to fellowship with on a daily basis.  We love Mars Hill and what they have to offer, but the drive there a couple times of a week is hard.  I know that God will either make something available to us down here (through them) or we will find another great church community to connect with while we're here.

We really have been preparing ourselves for something big.  Things have just been falling into place that have made me realize that we're probably going to end up moving across the country... and at first that was terrifying to me, but now I'm getting really excited. :)

I love that I still want to talk with my husband... that I look forward to spending time with him.  Its so easy to get lost in the common ground of our kids, and that our love for each other can be pushed to the back burner, but ours is still front and center and burning hot ;)

JVG

Christmas Jazz

For the past 2 years I've been apart of this Christmas Jazz ensemble.  It consists of a bunch of random musicians who come together once a year and just rock out and have fun.  Most of our venues are assisted living places or hospital lobbies... but the people are always so excited to have us.  This will be my third year and I look forward to more years to come!

This year was a little different.  Normally my dad plays in the group, but because Jon got married he was out of town for all our gigs.  I was a little nervous about playing with them, because honestly, I'm not quite sure what a violin's place is in a jazz group, but it all seems to work out.  Initially, the reason why I even joined the group was to have more opportunities to play music with Dad.  There were a few gigs this year and each one had different people filling in.  It was a blast though.  :)  And my wonderful wonderful husband watched the kids so I could go off and play my instrument.

Our last gig was the infamous D & W Produce section... but this year we got upgraded to the Starbucks in the D & W... haha.  It was really nice because this venue people actually come to sit and listen.  In the other ones they are just listening from their rooms or they are listening from afar.  But my sister in law, Zoe, Tristan, Lucy, Gaetan, Jon, Megan (the new sister in law) Onca (a capo friend) and her Mother came to watch.  Then Mom and Dad had just gotten in from CO so they stopped in to see us play too.  we had a really good time and I'm glad that I got to do this!

I didn't really feel very Christmasy this year (whatever that means) but this was something fun that I don't get to do all the time. :)

JVG

Jon got married!

My brother Jon got married on the 17th of Dec.  Ever since I can remember he's always wanted to be married and have a family... sometimes to a fault.  I know that he is looking for something to fill that hole and most of the time he's looking for a female.  There have been plenty of times where he's been engaged, but never married... but he finally tied the knot this time!

My parents drove out to Colorado the Wed before the wedding and my brother Dale flew out that Friday (because he was the best man).  Gaetan and I tried making the trip work but with the kids and the short notice we got about the wedding we just couldn't afford it.  To drive that long with the kids would've been sketchy at best... I think that Tristan would've been just fine but Lucy... sometimes she doesn't even like being in the car to the trip to GR!  And we didn't know what the weather was going to be like.  We looked into flights but they were so pricey (because of the time of year) and then we would've had to rent a car while there... unfortunately we just couldn't do it.

While waiting for the wedding Mom, Dad and Dale went to visit a rock formation called the Garden of the Gods... and unfortunately my mom slipped and fell landing on her knee.  She had to go to urgent care, ended up on crutches with an immobilizing knee brace and some vicodan.  She felt pretty bad that she did that before his wedding, but she was still able to go!  I was worried about the rest of their vacation, but they stayed for the majority of it.

I got a chance to see some of his wedding pictures via FB and he really looks happy.  While looking at the pictures I had this overwhelming feeling of guilt for not being there.  I know that he understood why we couldn't be there but I couldn't help feeling that way.  I know in my heart that it's not about the wedding ceremony but it's about the actual marriage, and I know that he knows that I am there to help out in any way that I can for that.  I guess I just feel like I miss out on a lot of his life and the big things that I would want to be there to celebrate with him, like his wedding, I'm not.

I did get a chance to meet my new sister in law, Megan.  She is very sweet and very quiet.  They do seem like they are a really good fit together.  I think that she's going to keep him in line.

So here's to my brother and my new sister in law... may their marriage be about love and sacrifice and always remembering Jesus.  I know that marriage rocks, and I hope that they can experience it too.

JVG

Grace

Last night I listened to one of Rob Bell's last sermons... and it was about grace.  I have been really struggling with having Ingrid in our lives lately and I have never been resentful towards anybody, and I would like to keep it that way, but she is making it really difficult.  I know that I'm being judgmental and I have been praying for the ability to show her grace as I've been shown grace repeatedly.

Tomorrow is going to be Rob's last sermon at Mars Hill.  Of course there are mixed feelings/emotions about it, but I am really excited to hear it.  He just delivers things in such a way that speaks differently to me every time I listen to his messages.

So through this Christmas season I am praying that grace can flow out of me.  That I will know how to deal with her and hopefully she will see what Christmas is really about.  Not little trinkets and meaningless gifts but about Christ and what He does for us daily.

JVG

Breaking the funk

I always look forward to breaks because Gaetan gets to be home for so long and I know that the kids love it.  But the past 2 weeks have been pretty rough.  I wasn't sure why and I know that we were both feeling it... and to add to it the kids have been sick/cutting teeth so they haven't been on their best behavior.  I was thinking, there is no way that I can survive the rest of break if it's going to be like this!  But today we had a much needed talk when the kids were down for a nap.

There have just been little things that I've been disappointed about (nothing major) but they had been building up.  I was REALLY looking forward to getting a treadmill for Christmas, so Ingrid bought me one but it was manual one.  I tried using it last night (and this morning) and it was horrible.  I looked online last night after it was so difficult to use and they pretty much say that you can only walk on it... annoying.  So, I thought that I was going to be able to start seriously training and I wasn't able too.  The hard thing is running is usually my 'me time' and I haven't had that in a couple of weeks.  Either the weather has been too icy, I've been sick or there just wasn't enough time.  We thought that the treadmill would be the answer because then I could do it while the kids slept and I wouldn't have to leave the house, and gym memberships can be SO expensive.  But I think that we are going to have to get one for the next few months while there is snow on the ground.  Stinky.

And because Ingrid got me the treadmill she accidentally had it shipped to her house instead of our place, so she brought it over yesterday, which was really nice.  However, every time she comes for a visit it's usually a big production number.  Mainly because it always starts off so badly.  For some reason, she can't be on time to save her life.  And honestly, I think it's just rude.  Obviously, as a mother of 2 small children, I know that things up come at the last minute and there's nothing you can do about it... so I can cut people slack.  However, I think of the couple years I've known her she's been on time ONCE.  AND she only has herself to get ready.  I just don't understand that.  I think that she doesn't value our time and she just thinks that she can come whenever she wants.  Its only hard when we are specifically skipping nap time or something to wait for her, and then she's so late that they could've gotten a nap in.  Well, we've learned from that and she just comes after nap time now... but still.  I don't think that its unreasonable to ask her to just tell us that she's going to be late too.  As long as we know that she's going to be here at a different time then we can plan accordingly... but we usually end up texting/calling her 15-20 minutes after we should've gotten a text from her asking her how things are going and her telling us that she's not even left her place yet.  and sometimes she just gets snippy with us about it too... really?!   This last time she didn't tell us that Mike was coming, which is totally great that he came for a visit, but it would've just been nice to know.  She texted and was like, "make sure everybody is up and ready to go when we get there..." we didn't know if she had something specific planned or anything.  So when we ask her she doesn't reply, because we know that if her plan doesn't go through the way she wants she'll pout.  Let me remind you, its a plan that nobody knew about except her.  The real kicker is that Zoe knew that Mike was coming and that they were running late.  Why does Zoe know before the people who she is actually coming to visit know?!  I don't know.  We asked her why she doesn't answer her phone even when she had 2 seconds before, and she told us that she doesn't reply because she thinks we're not going to like her answer.  She admits that she DELIBERATELY ignores it because she thinks that we're going to be mad.  I don't know how long it's going to take for her to understand that we would rather know and that communication would fix a lot of this crap.

Anyways, the day after her visit is usually a day of recovery for everybody.  Tristan even understands that her behavior is unacceptable... because he's told us before.  So to add onto whatever was going on between me and Gaetan we had to get through this too.

BUT we did get through it and things are much much MUCH better.  It's amazing what a little communication will do.  So, I am happy to report that things are going a TON more smoothly and break is looking awesome.  I love that we can be so honest with each other even when the things that we have to get out aren't the nicest.  But, of course, we say them in a nice way ;)

So, here's to the rest of break. :)

JVG

To homeschool or not

I know that there are things that you swear you'll never do... I remember swearing up and down that I would never cloth diaper my kids because I thought what a huge mess and I didn't want my kids constantly smelling badly!  Hahhaa... we've been clothing diapering for awhile now.  I was pretty dead set on never homeschooling my kids too... but that is also seeming like something that we are going to actually do and will probably love.

My sister home schools her kids and I've known a hand full of them and I could always tell who was and who wasn't.... the ones that were socially awkward definitely were.  I never understood why you would want to do that but now as a parent its definitely becoming more and more clear.  Because I have the luxury of staying home with them all day every day when they're gone I feel like I miss out on so much.  And to send them to school.... that's such a long time to not be with your kids.  And you don't know what happens at school and what they're learning and what other kids are teaching them.  I don't by any means want to shelter them, but there is just a lot of things that go on at school that doesn't need it.  I am carpooling with another girl from symphonette and she was telling me that her poor daughter gets bullied and has been bullied ever since she started school... how is that right?  It was heartbreaking just listening to her describe the types of things that they're working through year after year.

I know that we are obviously educating him at home now, and if we are thinking of sending him to preschool now is the time I would have to start researching schools and stuff... but really preschool is just for social interaction.  They don't teach them anything there... and from the sounds of it it sounds like he is already doing what they do in kindergarden (which they start at 5!).  I have heard that there are home school groups in the Portage area... and I wouldn't mind getting him in something like that.  That way he still has the social interaction and I would be able to teach him.

I have been praying a lot about this and I've been listening and looking for answers to what is going to be best.  I will definitely keep an open mind about it, but I just can't imagine sending my kid to school thinking that he is going to be bullied or threatened.  I know that this doesn't happen to every kid because my experience with school wasn't bad at all.  On the other hand I know that Holly's was.

There is just so much to consider.  I want them to have all the opportunities possible to grow but at what expense do I allow that?  I sometimes have to check to make sure that I'm not doing things for selfish reasons (because I would miss them or something like that) but I think that these are legit reasons.

I am still going to continue to pray about it, but I think that its becoming more and more clear.  I feel more at peace with the idea of home schooling and I know that God would provide me with the resources that I would need to make it successful.

JVG

PS Gaetan rocked his mechanics class!  92 on the final and an A in the class... of course he was the class high :)

A much needed break

Yesterday Gaetan offered me the best present he could've.  He told me that I could have the day off and go do something fun... kidless.  What?!  Since the kids have been sick it's been kinda stressful around here since they're cranky and it just gets hard hearing that hour after hour, not being able to fix it.  And he could tell that I was starting to stress a little (ok, a lot).  So he said that the offer was there... so I took it.  Initially I always feel guilty about leaving him with both kids.  I know that they're good kids, but they can be a handful, and with recent events of them being sick, it was most likely gonna be that way.  But he said that they were great and that he really enjoyed the time he got to spend with both of them.  :)

I drove out to the east side of the state to hang out with some old friends... Ashley and Sunil.  I know that it's a bit of a hike to go hang out, but it was so worth it.  I miss having them around the corner or next door.  We lived next to them for probably 3 or 4 years.. so not having them around was a bit of an adjustment.  So, I got there and she opened the door and was SO surprised to see NO kids.  I thought that I was going to have Lucy with me, but I didn't have any.  We just caught up mostly and talked about who knows what. We put up their Christmas tree and played this ninja fruit slicing game.  They took me out to eat and then we went to this local brewery with Tally and Pipi.  We went back to their house, made some puppy chow, juice and watched a show.  It was awesome.  I had a blast.  I know that it probably sounds lame to other people, but it was soooo nice.  It was exactly what I needed and I feel like I'm a much better wife/Momma.  Every now and again I just need a little time to myself or something and this was a HUGE gesture.  Normally going for a run, or something like that is good enough, but I guess I needed something major.  So thank you to my wonderful husband who is such a giver to let me have that day to myself and thank you to Ashley and Sunil for letting me crash their Sunday!  It was amazing... I think it will hold me over until the next one :)

Don't worry, I made sure that Gaetan was taken care of when I left.  I made him dinner, and made sure that he didn't have to anything extra (like diapers).  But bless his heart for letting me do that.  I feel badly sometimes because I need these days and I feel badly because I feel like I'm dumping the kids on him, and negating my Momma responsibilities... because he never asks to go out with friends or have time for himself.  I always tell him that he can, but he always wants to be home with us.  It's endearing.  I'll have to think of something super special for him :)  I'll let you know what I come up with.

Here's to a MUCH better start then the ending of last week.

JVG

Goopy eyes

Yesterday we took the kids to the Dr's because I thought they had eye infections... turns out they did!  Duder had been rubbing his eyes a lot a few days ago but then there was this goopy discharge that came along with it.  The last straw was when his eyes were crusted shut yesterday morning.  He was UNhappy.  He kept telling us that he wanted the lights on... and they were, but he couldn't see.  We took Lucy too because she had a snotty nose (but I didn't know if that was from cutting teeth) but it turns out she has an eye infection too.  So we got some antibiotics for the kids and we just have to put this ointment in their eyes twice a day for a week.  Then, hopefully as good as new!  And I hope that Gaetan and I don't get it...

Since their Dr is still in Grand Rapids, since we figured we wouldn't be there that often (hopefully!) we decided to make a day out of being there.  We went out for lunch and the kids did SO great.  Tristan usually does well, but its a hit or miss if he likes what you get him (even though we ask him what he wants) and Lucy is also a hit or miss... but since she sits up now and can have 'food' she was really good.  We then hit up the mall so that Tristan could play on the slides.  And now that Lucy is having more kid tendencies instead of baby tendencies she got to play as well too.  Ever since Duder got the slide on his bed he loves sliding down with her... so he wanted to do that at the mall too.  It was pretty stinking cute.

I had to drive back to GR last night because I had a concert... and honestly, I was pretty happy with my solo!  The first week we had concerts it was pretty bad (in my opinion...) but each week is getting better!  :)  Too bad next week is the last one haha.  I got to spend a little time with Mom and Dad last night afterwards which was nice.  Had some milk and cookies :)  We had an interesting conversation about my Dad getting an iPad... haha.  They are going to CO next week for my brother's wedding so they are making their final preparations for it.  I'm a little sad that we can't make it out there but with the two kids it was going to be really really expensive.  So luckily, they are going to be here afterwards so we will get to meet the Mrs. then.

Gaetan and I are feeling pretty terrible, but there aren't sick days for parents.  Lucy woke up at 4:40 this morning so I decided that I was just going to man up and take care of everything.  I let Gaetan sleep in, which is good because he has his classical mechanics final tonight... he probably actually is taking it right now.  But I cleaned up the kitchen and the rest of the downstairs and made some lemon bars for his class.  I've made his class treats on all their test days :)  I thought that its something nice to look forward too.

As a follow up, I did end up taking a pregnancy test yesterday.  We are not pregnant.  As much as it would be super busy if I was, I was kinda disappointed when it was negative.  So, I guess that just reinforces my notion that I want more kids :)  Just not RIGHT now. haha I know that our family will expand when the time is right.

So hopefully we will be able to take care of each other and get better soon!

JVG

Productive day!

Today has seemed like it's been full of firsts and many good things!  It started out when Duder and I were in the car and he started saying the alphabet!  It was amazing! He's so smart and so excited to learn... he was quite proud of himself, as he should be!  Then Lucy got 2 teeth... her first ones!  :)  I'm very excited for her as well, and she wasn't even real cantankerous for breaking them in!  And we found out that Gaetan got a 93 on his classical mechanics test.  I know that he's been rocking that class, so I guess this isn't out of the ordinary, but we are proud of him nonetheless.

Tristan has been such a lover/great big brother.  Every time Lucy gets up from her nap, or whenever she leaves the room and comes back he ever so gently goes over and says, "Hi Lucy."  Gives her the sweetest little kiss, hug and then rubs her head.  It's adorable.  Today he was reading to her.  She lights up every time she sees him too.  She can be in the most foul mood and when she sees him she starts smiling/giggling and clapping her hands.

This week Gaetan doesn't have to teach labs so he's home a lot more.  It's nice having him around. :)  It also allows me to experiment more with cooking since he's home more and can watch the kids while I do it.  I have been craving thai/indian food... so there has been a lot of that on the menu this week.  Also have been craving juicy fruit... weird.

I'm hoping that I can stay productive during the break and not slip into this kinda lazy attitude since I really don't have to get anything done.  During the school year I am responsible to make sure the kids are happy and the house doesn't fall apart when he's gone, but when he's home... hahaha.

For the past week or so I've been extra extra tired.  We just attributed it to the move and having two small kids... but they really are easy kids and even though Lucy gets up more in the middle of the night I still feel like I am probably getting ample amounts of sleep.  Of course it's not as much as I like, but I can guarantee you it's a lot more than other women with two small children.  I've been wanting to eat really crazy/stupid things and I've been pretty moody.  Gaetan told me that he thinks I've been running around like a crazy person, so who knows.  Maybe the crazy is starting to set in... haha.  I don't think I'm pregnant, but we're going to wait a little bit longer and see.  That would definitely be a surprise, but a welcomed one nonetheless.

I really also love getting mail and since we ordered all of our Christmas stuff I have been looking forward to checking our box or waiting for the delivery man to come. :)  Zoe's gift already came, along with Ingrid's.  Our Christmas cards have arrived... so we are just waiting for Mike's and my shoes.  Also... apparently I'm getting a treadmill :)  Good days.

Here's to the rest of the week and the beginning of break!

JVG

Big Girly and Big Duder

Lu Girl is our champion.  She is really digging eating baby food... mostly from Papa and Tristan.  Duder loves to feed her (with some help of course) and she loves it too!  She still isn't that excited about getting baby food from me, mainly because she just wants to nurse.  But, she will reluctantly eat some with me.  She is also standing up, while holding onto things and taking a few steps.  She can even pull herself up to standing!  She's so strong.

My favorite is when I go into her room to get her from her crib and I get the BIGGEST smile from her.  She is usually just playing happily in her room and just gets SO excited when she sees me and Tristan.  It's amazing how much they love each other and how much they like spending time together.  It warms my heart.  She babbles like crazy and Duder likes to babble back with her.  I think that they are communicating somehow together.  :)

Duder now sings the alphabet song and can tell me what his name is he says, 'my name is Tristan' and 'your name is _____' which is great.  He is talking more and more and in more full sentences.  He is showing more of an interest in writing too.

Now that he's getting closer to the age of preschool and regular school I'm been thinking more and am going to start investigating schools around us, and if it's the right thing to do.  It's hard because even when he goes to Sunday School for an hour I feel like I've missed out on so much.  I couldn't imagine a couple of hours!  And sometimes Gaetan is even in the Sunday School room with him!  So I am going to continue praying on what is right for us and for him.  I've been preparing myself to homeschool, but he thrives being around other kids.  So... again, we're going to see.

As of right now my children as the best... well, they always are, they just have moments in time where they aren't.  :)  They are my joy and I love when I get to spend one on one time with them.  Its fun to watch them interact, but I selfishly love my time with them too.  It makes me want more... :)

JVG

Walking a mile in somebody else's shoes...

Ever since Zoe (my sister in law) has re-entered the picture it has been great for the family.  Ingrid seems so much happier having her back (and she should be) and I'm really glad that Gaetan gets to share life with his sister.  Zoe and I usually text back and forth during the day, but not usually about really serious stuff.  The other day we actually talked on the phone and it was incredible.

To say that their family is dysfunctional, I think, would be the understatement of the century.  I've gotten bits and pieces from Gaetan of how things where and how he never wants them to be.  Most of the time things get explained when I do things that don't mean much to me, (like standing with my arms folded) but because things happened growing up he doesn't like them.  For example, we have had long discussions (and continue to) about disciplining the kids... what's appropriate and what is working and what's not.  He had a really hard time with the idea of spanking our kids... and hearing more and more about how he grew up I can understand why.

Zoe and I talked a lot about how Ingrid used to be.  I knew that Ingrid's circumstances were less than ideal, and that she handled them the best way she knew how too (which still wasn't very well).  But I had no idea to the extent of how bad things where growing up for them.  The fact that Gaetan is even half of the Dad he is is a miracle.  And the fact that Zoe isn't more messed up than she is is one as well.  I'm still reeling from the things I find out... and I know that each story is going to be a little bit different (depending on what person you ask) because of their perspective, but I know as a whole that it just wasn't a good environment.  With all that said, there really isn't any excuse to abuse your children the way that she did... emotionally and physically.  I know that her father was abusive as well, and you've gotta thing that she didn't like it very much.  In fact, we've talked about how horrible her dad used to be and I know that she hated it... so it makes you think, why would she do that to people she claims to love?

When Gaetan and I met, he and his mother had just gotten back onto talking terms. And honestly, the grace and compassion he has to have to forgive all that she did is remarkable.  I know that there is still a lot of baggage that will be sorted through, but we have an entire life time for that.  But when we met Zoe wasn't in the picture, not even close.  And he just kept telling me that he missed her and that she had a lot of growing up and finding out about herself before she was going to come back.  I think during that time she was trying to figure out and cope with what happened.  And I know that she is still trying to figure it out.

I talked to my Mom about this because it was really upsetting.  As she put it, our family might be weird but in the grand scheme of things we're pretty normal.  I just couldn't imagine living/growing up that way.  I think the worst I had it was watching my brothers and sister make mistakes and seeing the consequences.  For this, I am so thankful that I was placed in the family that I was.

The hardest thing, I think, hearing was that for the longest time Gaetan thought that's what families where like.  That that's how everybody was treated.  I can't imagine thinking that that is normal... but when you haven't experienced anything else, how would you know?  I am so happy that we met and that God is working wonderful things in his lives, and consequently ours.  I have to think that you don't start to go through all that and work things out without Jesus helping you through it... and I know that there are days that hit him more than others, but he is a wonderful wonderful man.  And he is such a strong and good head of our house.

So, I guess, everybody has a story and you shouldn't jump to conclusions.  Yes, there are people who are just plain big jerks out there, but I don't think that we should go around assuming they all are.  I know that Zoe has a lot that she is still gonna go through and I'm thankful that she has Gaetan to talk to... and me.  As hard as it is to hear, it gives me better perspective, understanding and appreciation for the things that I have and what they went through.  It also helps me to know why certain things are more of a big deal, and if I can prevent doing them then I will.

JVG

Throwing a fit

Yesterday was the first time Tristan had thrown a fit so huge in public I didn't know what to do.  We had some errands to run in GR so I thought if we left a little early we could hit up the Children's museum for a little while.  Everything is was going SO well.  He was playing well with other kids and just listening really well.  Then, this other kid just walked up and Duder hit him.  It was really surprising because he doesn't usually hit other kids.  So I made him apologize and then we had a little talk about how it's not appropriate to hit other kids.  He sat with me for a little bit (as part of his time out) and then he got to go back to playing.  Again, things were going really well and then that same kid came near him and he tried to hit him again!  This time I saw that it was winding up so I caught his hand and asked him if he was going to hit that kid and he very truthfully told me, 'yes.'  During our little talk before I told him that if he did anything like that again then we were going home.  Well, because he did try to do it again we were gonna go home. He pitched the biggest fit... he threw himself on the floor and started kicking and screaming.  Normally, we can stand him up and talk with him so that he calms down... this time he went boneless and wouldn't get up for anything.  I also had Lucy on my back so I was trying to get my out of control child off the floor while the other one was getting upset on my back.  The hardest part was trying to get his coat on him because it was cold out.... and after a few minutes of that going poorly I just stuck him in the stroller.  He was so miserable that he slid as far down as he could so that when I tried to push the stroller his feet dragged and stopped it from going forward.  Meanwhile, Lu girl is fully upset and screaming and crying too... fabulous.  He continued to throw a fit and cry and scream until we got to the car... where anytime he saw somebody coming he would say HELP.  WHAT?!

I really didn't know what to do.  all I knew was that I had to get him out of there as fast as possible.  I was pretty embarressed and I still haven't the foggiest of what the best plan of action was.  I just couldn't believe that he did that.  He did get a chat with the Papa when we all got home and he's been really good ever since.

we did try going to the library since then, and it looked like he was gearing up to tell other kids that they couldn't play with stuff, but then he didn't.  So I think that his talk with Papa went well... we will see.

I love my children dearly... but that was quite the experience.  It was just so out of control and ridiculous that I was more mad about it after the fact then in the middle of it.  I'm glad that God granted me patience and grace during that time.  Here's to hoping it doesn't happen again.

JVG

Parents

There have been a lot of real serious issues going through, and I know that I'm still trying to digest a lot of them.  And I suppose the reason for the blog is to just get things out and they don't necessarily have to make sense (although, I'm sure, for you the reader, it would be more helpful. ;) 

The other day we were lucky enough to spend a little bit of time with one of our favorites, Amy.  She was in town for her sister's wedding and we got to drop her off at the airport.  It was amazing in that 1.5 or 2 hours that we got to see her that we've had the best conversations we've had with anybody (besides each other) in a really long time.  Probably since the last time we saw her!  Of course, that made me realize the importance of having community and fellowship with people... and especially people who have the same belief system as you do.  If it's in God's plan, we would so love to be neighbors with them. :)  I know the timing isn't right now, but I'm really hoping we can make that happen.  Gaetan and I joke about how it wouldn't really matter where we were living, as long as we could be around Amy and Brian (and probably a few other people... don't wanna be stuck in the middle of nowhere! haha)

But in that time with Amy were discussed parents.  There is so much depth and layering to 'what is a parent.'  and when do we stop viewing them as our heroes, and realize that they are people who are just trying to live life too... or when do they stop having authority over us.  Or just because we are biologically related to them does that mean that they are our parent figure?  In mine and Amy's case, that answer would be no.  both being adopted we have parent figures... does that change anything? 

I have to say that I am very grateful and thankful for the parents I have.  Of course my dad is still my hero, but as a parent now I am under no illusion that he is perfect (like I might've when I was younger. :)  And when I was in high school my mom and i didn't get along very much at all... but now I would say, she's one of the people I go to when I wanna talk things out or need perspective.  And being a Momma now I am trying to have a better understanding and appreciation for all that she did.

I am under no great idea that all people who have children are good parents.  Not by a long shot.  And that there are people who don't have children that are great role models.  I LOVE being a Momma.  Absolutely, no doubt about it.  And even when there are days filled with disobedience, poop and lack of sleep, I am happy to be here.  So for me, when I hear other Mother's talk about how much they dislike it, its hard for me to understand.  But I do understand that we are not all naturally inclined to be maternal.

I guess I'm still thinking of all the times I'm extra tired and Tristan is just pushing my buttons and I am losing my patience, I still find a way to handle it.  The more and more time I spend with Ingrid, the more and more i know she didn't like being a mother. And her situation was anything but ideal, but I just can't imagine handling the situations the way she did.  I'm still trying to wrap my mind around how you could treat your children in that fashion and think its OK... but I'm sure it will come with time. 

And then there's Gaetan.  Coming from a terrible terrible home/family life how did he get it so right?  Its just amazing to know what he came from to how he is with his children.  we love him.

We were watching a House the other day and House was convinced that all parents screw up their kids... even if they have a good home life, being normal screws them up... it was an interesting thing to think about.  I'm still mauling over a lot of things, but that's where I'm at right now.

There are a few things I know for certain... that if we continue to go to God for guidance on how to be good parents things will work out, and that I love my children and my husband.  And food. :)

JVG

Birthday

Yesterday was my birthday. I don't feel much older... :)  it wasn't anything out of the ordinary, in terms of the activities that we did.  I know a lot of people think that you should do something special on your birthday, and if yesterday would've allowed for it then I'm sure we would've.  Sundays just tend to be a busy day for us.  We drive an hour to church (one way) and then we usually are doing things to get ready for the week... like grocery shop and make sure all the homework is done.  I think that I will try and see if somebody (most likely my parents) will watch the kiddos while Gaetan and I have a date.  I feel badly sometimes because at night he wants to hang out but I'm either so tired, or I've had children on me all day, I would like to be alone for a little bit.  With all the marriages around me failing I am ultra sensitive to trying to keep ours solid... i guess I've just become more aware of how easy it can be to let things slide. 

I guess honestly, my birthday was kinda a poopy day... literally.  Ever since Lucy's started eating baby food it seems like she's doubled her output and I think that we fed Tristan too much juice so he was more on the explosive end.  I felt bad for the poor Dude... but I've learned my lesson on that!

I also had a choice yesterday too to either stew and be upset that my birthday wasn't that great easy day, or just come to the realization that when you have two small children your celebration might just happen on a later day.  :)  I was pretty happy though when my head hit the pillow last night because I knew that tomorrow was another day.

Funny how everyday is a choice on whether you're going to make the best of it, or just wallow in self pity.  I have just been trying to keep things in perspective... so when I feel like I've had a bad day I just think of all those people who haven't eaten in days, or the people who are trying to literally rebuild their homes.  I don't try to make myself feel guilty for having nice things but I am trying to keep things in check and not take what I do have for granted.

JVG

Being Thankful

As Thanksgiving approaches there are many things to think about and to be thankful for!  Even little things have spurred on a new perspective on how much I actually have to be thankful for.  There is so much evil and bad that is going on in the world... what you hear on the news, things happening to people you know... it is very easy to get sucked into the despair.  BUT I know that we serve a God that doesn't understand or know what we're going through.  That there are things that go on that He doesn't know about... and in that, we can have hope.  And in hope, there can be life.

Recently, I have been noticing a lot more people's marriages failing.  Good Christian people too... and that has been really hard for me to swallow or wrap my mind around.  I was talking with my good friend Amy, and she reminded me that we're all human and just because we are Christians doesn't make us falter...  It was a good reminder of grace, but it still confuses me.  I know just because we profess Christ to be our Savior doesn't mean (and actually probably is the opposite) that our hardships will be taken away... but as somebody who is in the midst of figuring out how to make my marriage be full of love and continue to grow in Christ I just shake my head.  Right now, I know, without a shadow of a doubt that my marriage is rock solid and pretty much you could throw anything at us and we would survive.  I KNOW we would.  And I just am thinking and wondering what changes in people's marriages.  How can one go from being like this to the opposite of walking away?  I know that people say marriage is work, and I'm beginning to see it.  Now I see that there are things that I need to consider and make sure happen in order for us to remain this way.  Simple things like always kissing each other good night, or saying I love you.  I love my husband.  He's fantastic.  And I never want my feelings to change... other than stronger :)

So the next time you're upset about something little, be it having to do dishes, waking up at o'dark thirty because your kids are up, or having to clean.... think of those who don't have dishes or food to eat, those who want to have kids or have experienced the loss of a child, or people who don't have a place to call their own.  It will make you more joyful and give your heart more perspective.

JVG

Things getting put together

Its been a little over a week since we've moved in and things are starting to feel comfy and homey.  I'm getting decorations and such put up and getting things that I need out of boxes!  Moving with two small children is such a different ball game then with just one, or without any!  It takes a bunch more organization and time management, but it is getting done :)

I am really happy with the new place.  I know that the commute is WAY better for Gaetan which is really nice... and with winter coming up it gives me more peace of mind.  Since the move, I've been back to GR a few times and the drive is just loooong.... I know I'm also tired because of having just moved, but I don't know how he did it everyday!  Yuck!

I really really really like the city though.  I was a little worried that there wasn't going to be much to do or find, but there is A TON of kid friendly things.  The library here is awesome, and Tristan LOVES going there.  That is going to be a big help when winter comes and it gets too cold to play outside.  It also helps that its really close.  That's the nice thing about Portage so far I suppose... everything is so close, but you don't feel clustered or anything like that.  I still feel like we have enough space but everything is right there for us.  It's awesome.  Everybody says that people like it here, and I'm beginning to see why.  I never really thought that we'd be around here longer than we have too, but if the doors open and opportunities present themselves, I think I could be good with it.  That is if a few people moved closer ;)

The kids are doing great with the change too.  I was most worried about Tristan, but he seems to be adapting well, and he loves having our own home.  We asked him the other day if he was excited about his new home and he YES and if he liked his room and he was very enthusiastic about it.  Lu Girl is a champ about everything.  She is starting to eat baby food which is good!  I was beginning to feel like I wasn't giving her enough from nursing, and she was so interested in everybody else eating it seemed like a good time to start.  It's also a bit of a relief too that she'll be able to eat if I'm not around.  And that makes it easier for planning things... I'll probably make sure that she has a bottle to eat, but knowing that she's so about other food is good :)

There are some great trails along with parks here.  I can't wait for the warmer weather really.  I've been doing a bit of running while the weather is still nice and the trails are amazing.  They have a lot of people on them, which is nice, because it makes me feel like they're pretty safe.  There is just so much to do!  I love it!  I was a little worried that when we moved down here there wouldn't be anything to do and I would be stuck at home with the kids all day everyday, but that definitely is not the case.  Am probably going to drive to the children's museum some still, because it's great, but there is a children's museum in KZoo that I'm looking to try out.

Lucy girl is on the verge of crawling.  She can move herself in circles and from laying to sitting, but not the all out crawl yet.  It will be another story once she gets mobile like that!  We also started doing some sign language with her too :)

A little bit of updating on everything... real choppy I know, but we just got internet and there is so much floating on inside my head!  I will try to slow down once I get things more situated and elaborate more on things.

JVG

All moved!

I'm quickly using the internet while the kids play at the library but we are all moved into our new place! Portage is a really nice area.  They have a lot of great parks, trails and the library here is great!  We don't have internet yet, so I will be updating a lot more later, but just wanted to let everybody know that the move was successful and we love having our own place again.  :)

JVG

Date night

The other night Gaetan and I got to go on a date.  We just went out to eat, but it was nice to have some time alone with each other.  It was strange not having at least one of the kids with us, but it was a nice change of pace.  I actually got to eat my food as soon as it came out :)  It was also really nice just to be able to catch up with what's been going on with each other.  I know that we see each other everyday and we do talk, but this was nice to be able to focus just on him.  See how things are going at school, and what sorts of things he's really excited about in school.

It was also nice spending time with him alone, because, sometimes I worry that we won't remember how to date each other.  Being so busy with the two kids all the time I want to make sure that we can still 'date' and that we still like spending time with each other.  Of course, our kids are wonderful and we love spending time with them, but they will grow up and then it will just be us again.  And I want to make sure that we still love each other's company.

And we do.  :)

Its these little moments amidst all the crazy busy times its reassuring to know that I am the luckiest girl alive and I am reminded of all the little things that make him the love of my life.

JVG

The end of Oct

The end of October is bringing a lot of ends... and new beginnings!  At the end of this week we will be moved into our own place.  We've been doing a bit to stay busy, but I know that this week is going to fly.  A lot of logistical things need to happen so make this weekend a success... but I think it can be done :)

This past weekend we did a few Halloween-y things.  Since Tristan is getting older and is soaking everything up like a sponge, we've really had to think about what sorts of things we want him associating with things... like Halloween.  We're not into the whole getting scared, ghosts and things of that nature, but we are into fall, leaves, pumpkins, dressing up for fun and getting candy :)  I don't think that he understands a lot of it fully still, but this is a start.  We went to a friends house all dressed up (in footie PJs) and had fun dinner and I made pumpkin cupcakes.  And we are going to a music 'hootenanny' at church tonight.  These are the types of things that I like doing with the family.  :)  I think that if we don't emphasize what society does as the norm for things like Halloween, Easter, and Christmas then our kids will have the appreciation and understanding of these holidays that are the important ones.

Tristan is getting smarter and smarter.  He can now spell truck... which I think is pretty advanced for a 2 yr old!  He has also learned how to put his own underroos and pants on... which is a plus for after he goes to the bathroom.  He's becoming more and more independent on that front... he pretty much just tells us that he's going to the bathroom now.

I still love watching the kids play together.  Lucy is so content just sitting and watching Tristan play around her.  I can see that they will have their tifts every now and again, but for the most part I think that they are going to definitely love playing together.  We asked Tristan if Lucy was his best-bud and he said very enthusiastically... YES!  And then that was followed up with, "I love you, Baby Lu"  :)

I also started helping a friend with an after school program that she started for elementary orchestra students.  I'm just helping at the beginning to get things started, but it's a nice little thing to once a week.  I don't know how people work and get their kids ready for anything... it can be quite the production number!  It shows me how lucky I am that I get to stay at home with my children.

JVG

Fall things

We have all had a touch of this head cold that has been going around.  I think it started with my kids, they gave it to Mom and Dad, which then we got it, and now its mutated again and my kids have it.  :( Ugh.  Ohh well... if this is all the sick we're going to have all winter I'll take it!

This past weekend dear SIL Zoe was home for a visit from Jersey (for her birthday).  We had a nice relaxing family day at the orchard.  It was fun to Duder, who go to enjoy the petting zoo, the slide and of course, cider and donuts!  It was such a nice chill day with everybody... those are my favorites!

We also hit up John Ball Zoo for their Zoo goes Boo.  They have a little trick or treat area set up so you can get candy and then, of course, the rest of the zoo is available for viewing.  Duder was a monkey this year... he was absolutely adorable.

Baby Girl can now stand by herself.... I stood her up in her crib and she held on to the railing all by herself.  She is so sturdy on her feet!  She pretty much rolls places too... I'm not quite convinced that she will crawl, but I have a feeling she will be walking by the end of the year.  She is a babbling machine too.  This age is so much fun... they are hitting so many mile stones!  Its times like these where I can see her doing things that makes me thankful that I get to stay at home with them and witness them all!  :)

In the spirit of fall, I tried my hand at homemade caramel candy... which is DELICIOUS.  Can't wait to eat some more cider and donuts and then when I get better run them all back off!  :)

Tristan is a spelling machine.  He can spell a bunch of 3-4 letter words.  He knows all of our names and is starting to become more understandable with the talking.  He loves his baby sister and is enjoying all her new mobile things, which means, he's starting to have a permanent playmate.  :)

JVG

ABCs, 123s

Tristan and I have been doing a little bit of official 'school' in the mornings.  I have been trying to put a memory verse up for the week that stays on his marker board always until we get a new one.  We have been doing some simple math: 1+1=2, 1+2=3 type of stuff and he's getting it!  It's kinda scary... we've been doing shapes, colors, spelling, reading and a little human anatomy. :)  He's learned all the things on your face and is getting a lot of body parts.  He can tell you how to spell his name, and Lucy's.  I am thoroughly amazed!

Lucy has also learned to sit up in the past week.  I used to try and sit her up and she was just fold in half pretty much eating her toes... which she seemed to enjoy enough ;)  But then one day I sat her down and she straightened herself up.. and hasn't looked back since!  It's crazy!  They just do it one day, and that's that.  She is starting to want to grab at a lot more stuff and get to things.  She is showing more interest in what I'm eating and has even tried a breadstick :)

My children are such a blessing... they're giving me baby fever!!  Ahhh!!!  But I know that our heart is towards adoption, so we are looking more into that.  I am EXCITED.  I LOVE everything (even the bad whiny, poopy moments) of being a parent.  Everybody says that being a Grandparent is better than a parent... I just can't even imagine.  :)  I LOVE IT.

JVG

Officially moving

We got the call saying that all our paper work went through and we are all set to move in.  The move in date got pushed up earlier than we thought, so we will be moving the first weekend in November... which is SOON!

Things have been going really well at my parents place since school/work started up again, but I know that we just need our own space.  There is a lot of communication that needs to go on between families, and within our own, to make it work... and it has been, but I feel at peace with this decision.  I'm glad that things didn't go poorly and that we ended on bad terms with my parents.  I am so grateful for them allowing us into their space and their lives in this capacity.  It's been interesting living with them though... I have been finding out a lot of little habits or corks they have that i never saw before.  Some funny... some odd... :)

My Dad keeps asking us if we really want to move out.  I know he wants us to stay around because he likes seeing the kids all the time.  And I really love having the kids be able to see them.  It will be nice having our own space, and Portage isn't that far away that we won't be visiting quite a bit.  :)  It will be a change having the kids all to myself, but I think that we will adjust well.

The nice part about this move is that most of our stuff is still packed from last time.  When we moved in we just had to unpack things like beds, clothes... things that we need immediately.  Mom and Dad had everything else... so this should be pretty easy.  And the nice thing is if we forget something then we can always come back and get it... unlike when you move out of an apartment you have to make sure everything is out, or its gone forever.

Will let you know how things go... and put some pics up of the new place :)

JVG

Caring Big Brother

It is so fun to watch Tristan become a caretaker.  He loves Lucy so much.  My Mom had this doll that was for when Joni came over, but he has seemed to have commandeered it.  He has this 'bed' set up next to his. It has a pillow and what was his favorite blanket.  There is a little bottle that he likes to feed the baby with too.  At night time when he's going to bed we tuck him in, say a prayer, and then I give him a kiss on the forehead and kinda rub his head.  Today during naptime I was watching to make sure that he stayed in bed, and he looked like he was going to get out, but he was just taking care of baby.  He tucked her in, gave it a kiss and patted its head.  It was adorable.

He does the same for Lucy too.  If she's upset he'll find her pipe, wherever it may be and give it to her.  When she's having tummy time and she's reaching for a toy that's too far away he'll give it to her.  Although, right now we're trying to get her to crawl to it... so that's kinda funny.  When she's upset he'll pat her bunda.  Its awesome watching him want to care for her in the ways that he sees us doing it.

It warms my heart that he is such a little lover.  :)

JVG

Fall is here!

The weather has been changing... the leaves are turning colors... there are apples galore... hot apple cider... donuts... must be fall.  :)  I was thinking about all the different seasons that Michigan has to offer and there are so many positive things about each.  But I'm thinking that fall might be one of my favorites all around.  I enjoy the crisp weather and the colors... its beautiful.  Its been pretty cold and rainy this past week, but it's supposed to be pretty nice this upcoming one.  So we will have to get in all our playing outdoors when we can!

I have started back up on the Korean train.  I took some time off when I got really sick, and then when I was getting back into the routine of having Gaetan at school.  But I'm back at it, and I'm feeling pretty good :)

Duder is starting to talk up a storm.  And its pretty clear.  It seems that he is learning to speak exponentially.  Its exciting to see how quickly he learns just by hearing.  You pretty much just have to say something 3 times and he has it.  Its amazing just how much knowledge his little brain can soak up.  Hopefully I will be able to input some good things in there!

Not a whole lot is going on.  Just doing the same ole same ole... in a sense... ya know.  :)

JVG

Things we are prayerfully considering

Obviously with a family there are lots of things to consider.  One of the biggest things lately has been the where do we live.  Do we stay here or do we move the family closer to school?  If it was just me and Gaetan I know that the decision wouldn't be nearly so important because we'd be able to adjust.. it's Bugga I'm a little worried about.  He was pretty upset when we moved out of the apartment, and I know that there were big changes going on then (like having a sibling) but he didn't seem to adjust well, for awhile.  We have talked to him about it and hopefully that will help.  He does seems pretty keen on the idea of having our own place again, so we can only hope (and pray!) that he will like it.

One of my good friends that I did some summer interning with in Mexico is moving her family to Kenya for 5-9 months.  They have always wanted to adopt (they have 2 small boys already) but in order to do that they have to live there for that length of time.  When they first got married they moved there and started and orphanage and did a lot of missions work there... so they have a heart for it obviously.  But what a HUGE thing to do.  She told me that shes been arguing with God about moving her small boys there with all the things that could go wrong, but she is obviously obedient and doing it!  So we are praying for their transition and for the wonderful life they are going to be able to take home with them.

As a stay at home Momma that is another thing I think about.  What am I'm planning to do with my life.  I obviously love staying home with the kids, but there is a desire to return to school at some point.  I know that I wouldn't want to go back to school until the kids are much much older.  I'll probably end up in grad school while they're in college!  haha.  That would be fun!  But I also don't want to be that 45+ student that annoys all the younger traditional kids... And the reason I want to go back to school is so that I can use that skill on the mission field.  I am still aiming for something in the health profession, preferably a PA but I know that they are always needing nurses too.  I just know that God is calling us to do that... its just a question of when.

I believe that we've been called to adopt also... and I know that can take a few years to get approved.  So we are praying about when we should do that... and how old they will be and money and all that jazz.

As of right now, we know, that he will be in school for at least probably another 5 years... and if we can get started on the adoption process while he's still in school that would be great.  I don't want the kids to be too far apart in age... then it would feel like we had an only child.  I can see already that Tristan and Lucy are likely to be best buds (which is good!).  But I would want our 3rd child to be able to hang with the older sibs.

So we will see what God has in store for our family!  We are excitedly anticipating... :)

We did just find out that the founding pastor at our church is leaving.  Its been such a blessing to attend Mars Hill... and I love that Rob is following his own advice that he gives to others and taking more leaps in their faith.  We are praying for the Bell family as they make their transition and move to LA... and know that because of their obedience God is going to bless them greatly.  Of course we will miss his teaching, but I know that God wouldn't leave Mars Hill in the dust.

JVG

Early mornings

This past week the kids decided that it was a really good idea to have them both wake up at the same time... real early in the morning.  I suppose I wouldn't mind the early in the morning part, but it can get a little hairy when they wake up at the same time.  Duder has to pee, Lu Girl wants to be fed, things of that nature... and its hard to do both things at the same time!  But we juggle and things get done :)

One of the mornings though Dude was sitting on our bed and Gaetan was getting ready to leave for school and this can be a touchy thing in the morning.  I love that he loves being with the Papa but he can get upset when he has to go to school sometimes.  I thought that this was going to be one of those mornings... but he just waved and said, "bye!" when he was going out the door.  Then he held his hand up for a little while and looked at me like, "come on"  So I asked him what he was doing/what he wanted and then he grabbed my hand, held it up, and then high fived me.  It was hilarious.  He was pretty proud of himself.  :)

Lu Girl is about half a good try away from crawling... its intense.  Just figuring out a schedule with her now and a routine, but that will all change when she's mobile.  Looking forward to it.

I am also going to try and start doing push-ups and sit-ups everyday.  So here marks my first day... I've been doing crunches everytime I wake up with Lucy.  She likes to play on the floor so while I'm laying on the floor with her I bust a few out.  It seems to be going all right.  Its the push-ups that might present the challenge... and I would like to start back running again.  I'm almost 100% healthy so that will be something to look forward to as well :)

JVG

Learning to read

Since Gaetan has been back to school I'm trying to get Duder to do a little bit of school work as well!  We have a book that we go through and we have learned how to count, colors, some shapes and now he's learning simple words!

Hes got words like pie, dog, bug, box, hat, pig, sun, ball, and fish down and learns a new one pretty much everyday.  He can recognize his own name and Lucy, Momma and Papa down. 

Its scary how quick he is, and I hope that I can help him to his potential.  He definitely loves to learn, so we will capitalize on his enthusiasm while we can!  :)  cheers!

JVG

Getting back into the swing of things

Its been about 2 weeks now that Gaetan has been back to school with everything involved... teaching, grading, driving, the like.  And obviously, for about 2 weeks I haven't blogged... wonder if there's a correlation!

I think that Tristan has adjusted well to Gaetan not being around all the time.  I just tell him that he's at school, and that he'll be back later, and that seems to be a sufficient enough explanation for the 2 yr old.  And things have been going well for me taking care of both kids.  The only hard time is when they wake up pretty close to each other, and I'm trying to feed Lucy and Tristan has to potty or something.  That gets a little hairy, but we figure it out ;)

Lucy is getting bigger and bigger.  She is a rolling machine and is almost pulling herself to the crawling position.  It's so nice to see how much Tristan wants to help her out.  The other day she was upset and I went into her room and I found Tristan with his arms through her crib patting her butt and giving her her pipe... (which are the things that we do to calm her down).  It was very cute.  She LOVES watching him play.  I know that they are going to be quite the team when she is able to play more with him.

Tristan is talking a lot more now too.  And he has such personality when he says things... its pretty interesting.  It shows how much he watches us, observes and then does it.  Can be kinda scary....

On a different note, we did find a townhouse to move into.  I believe that we will be there maybe as early as mid-October, but hopefully no later then the end of the year.  That will be another change, but I think that we can handle it!  I know that its time to get our own space... and I think that we found a nice place to go with the kids.  Kalamazoo is pretty ghetto, but we found a place in Portage.  I know that Tristan would've loved to play on the big hill at Mom and Dad's, but that's what the weekends are for :)

Days just fly by now.  Don't know where the time goes!  Lucy acts like shes growing some teeth so she hasn't been sleeping the obscene amount of hours she usually does... but I still enjoy the girl time.  :)  Even if that does mean I only sleep a few hours a day.  Wouldn't trade it for the world.

I'm sure there are other things that have gone on, but I'm pretty tired and not thinking real straight... so I will hopefully get a chance to write more soon. 

JVG

Broken washer

Another reason this week has seemed so busy is that my parents washer broke.  :(  And when cloth diapers its kinda important to have them cleaned!  So.... we've been going to my sister's house to do diapers every other day.  She lives about 30 minutes away, but its been nice to see her more often.  I know that Tristan likes playing with her kids, even though they are older. 

You never realize how many things we take for granted until they're not there!  I don't think that it would've been such a big deal if we were just doing regular laundry, but having to do the diapers all the time really showed us how much we use appliances.

Luckily, my parents got a new one and it should be delivered tomorrow morning :)  I know that my mom and I both have a lot of regular laundry to do, but I will sue be glad when I can do the diapers here.  Normally washing the diapers isn't a big deal when we're home, but when we were at Holly's I had to entertain the kids for a couple of hours while they washed.  It was fun, but tiring.  :)

JVG

Ben and Janelle

This weekend some really close friends of ours got married.  :)  The wedding was beautiful and the reception was very classy.  It was one of the best weddings I've been to in a LONG time.

Gaetan was a groomsman and I played my violin for prelude music.  That meant that Friday night we had rehearsal dinner that we took Bugga too.  He did very well considering it was a really late night for him and he didn't get a nap in.  And then on Saturday we took Lucy to the wedding and then dropped her off with my parents for the reception.

The reception was nice and the atmosphere was really chill.  Our poor friend who did their wedding cake got in an accident on the way there and their wedding cake was spewed all over the road.  They tried to recover most of the tiers but ended up making some cupcakes to supplement.  Overall, it was nicely done!  The food was actually good too!

Because Gaetan was in the wedding party I got to make some new friends with the people at my table.  Lucky for me I had met a lot of them before when visiting Ben down in Chicago.  It was nice to just hang out and chat with them!  It was strange not having either kid with us, but we did get a chance to just hang out with each other.  We got to dance a bit and just be silly.  It was nice.

However, we are TIRED.  That was a lot of planning with the kids and staying up a lot later then we're used too.  We're old farts. haha.  But I wish Ben and Janelle the best in their marriage... and I know that they will keep Christ at the center of their marriage and that is the best thing that they can do.  :)

JVG

School has begun!

We have finished the first official week of school!  It seems like things are going very smoothly.  :)  Gaetan is taking two classes and seems to be about them.  When he describes the things that he's doing I just think, "better you than me!" 

Its funny because he is TAing he gets an official office.  Very professional.  :)  He said he was excited to decorate his desk and stuff with pictures of the fam... cute!  This week is the first week of labs so we will see how that goes!

It definitely has been different not having him around as much, but we're getting into a good schedule I think.  I'm looking forward to seeing what I can do with Tristan (educational wise).  Of course, a lot of things are subject to change during the day, depending on when Lucy is awake, but I have all the confidence in the world its very do-able.  :)

It's been a very busy week but very good.

JVG

Big brother love

I was so glad that Tristan has always been about Baby Lucy.  But now that she's rolling over and being more attentive he's really digging it!  He lays down on his belly when she's on hers and shows her how to get into the crawling position and then stand up!  :)  It's very cute.  He'll bring her toys and wipe her mouth off when she's drooling.  If she's upset he'll try and pat her bunda like Momma does to calm her down.  He takes such good care of her! He loves to play around her and she loves watching him.  It's very cute to watch... and I know that they can't wait til they can play together!

He's also been doing this really cute thing with this baby doll.  My Mom has a doll that she keeps for when Joni comes over and he's really taken a liking to her.  He has a bottle and feeds the baby when he gets up from his nap and then he burps her.  ;)  He likes to tuck her in and at night too and was even offering up his own blanket for the baby to have.  The only problem with that was then he wasn't taking another blanket for himself... so we got baby doll another blanket.  He gives her lots of kisses and hugs... just like he does for Lucy.

It's interesting to see how he tries to take care of this doll because that's what he wants to do for Lu Girl.  :)  What a lover!

JVG

Super Husband Extraordinaire!

Yesterday night I started to feel not so good again... my throat was finally almost better but then my stomach started getting rumbly... :(  I made dinner, but just the smell of it made my stomach hurt worse, so I didn't eat any of it.  Luckily, Gaetan said it was really good, but I don't think that I'm going to be trying it anytime soon!  I did get sick all night... which made my stomach feel a little better.  When I woke up in the morning the weirdest thing was my legs hurt SO BAD.  Like I was having growing pains or something... it very strange.

Pretty much ever since he's gotten better he's been taking care of me.  I never kicked the sickness but while he was sick I was more 'healthy' so I was back into taking care of the kiddos.  But he is definitely taking care of everything!  He has let me sleep all day (except for when Baby Girl needs to eat of course).  And I've actually been sleeping too... when I was sick with the fever I just laid around and didn't really sleep, but today I have slept all day.  The fever did come back but not nearly as bad as before, so that's good.

I've been able to keep down some water, flat ginger ale and a few ritz crackers.  I even tried a peach.  I'm thinking I'm going to try some soup next because I think my stomach hurts because of being hungry now.  I always joked about losing the baby weight faster, and this was the way it happened!  I have lost 7 lbs since I've gotten sick.. which is a little over 5% of my body weight!  Crazy!  I am back to pre-Tristan weight, but still have a few more pounds to lose to get to pre-Lucy weight.

I am so lucky to have a husband/Papa who is so willing to step up and take care of his family.  I know that he likes spending time with the kids, but its a lot of effort!  He is truly a blessing to me, and I know I struck is WAY good :)  God is good to us.

JVG

Change

I feel like a lot has gone on this week.  Baby Girl is now a rolling machine!  On Sunday she was almost doing it and by Monday morning she was doing it like she'd been her entire life.  She's so quick and smart.... it's almost scary.  One wouldn't think that a 4 month old could seem like anything but cute, but she definitely seems like there is something going on upstairs.  I also think that she is most definitely right handed.  The jurys still out on Bugga, but she most definitely does everything with her right hand.

We also found a townhouse that we might move into at the end of the semester.  We're going to see how this semester goes with commuting but I worry about the drive in the winter.  The place we found is pretty close to campus... its not real huge or anything but definitely enough space for our family.  The area seems nice and I think that it would be good to have our own space.  I like that we are saving a ton of money by staying at my parents, but I think that its starting to wear on everybody.  We just seem to be getting in each other's way, and I don't want our relationship to be hurt.  So I'm getting pretty jazzed with the idea that we could have our own place again.  We are praying about it, crunching some numbers and seeing what opens up.  Will keep you updated :)

I am excited to have a schedule again.  It was getting pretty difficult for me not knowing what Gaetan's schedule was... routine wise with the kids.  We have found some great things for them to do I think.  For instance, on Wednesday afternoon they do a toddler reading time at the library... which he LOVES going too.  I think that this will be great for him to learn to sit for a little while and get a chance to interact with other kids. Plus, who doesn't love reading books!  If Gaetan's Tuesdays are going to be his long days we'll probably hit up the children's museum.  I just wanna be able to get him back into a routine because I think he does better with it.  :)  I know I do.

Another fun thing that Gaetan is starting is he's a volunteer at our church's preschool aged kids.  Tristan really does thrive being around other kids so we thought it might be time for him to start Sunday school.  Of course this Momma isn't ready to let him go all by himself so Gaetan volunteered to be in there with him :)  We are excited to see what Mars Hill Kids is like!

And lastly with everything starting up, the symphonette is starting again!  I'm excited for sure.  Mr. D gave me a solo to practice already too.... which is pretty challenging really.  I'm not nearly as good as I used to be so hopefully I can do it!  :)  It's a nice easy going thing to do while still utilizing a skill.  Plus I get to see Holly and Mr. D.

Life is going to be crazy busy, but bring it on!  I'm excited to see what's in store.

JVG

Over a week

Unfortunately it has been over a week since I've been sick!  Boo! My throat is starting to finally feel better, but whatever this is has moved into my lungs and potentially my tummy.  :(  This is not cool!  I am trying to lay low as much as I can and rest... because I need to be firing on all cylinders like a few days ago!  No, seriously, I do need to be better before Gaetan starts school on Tuesday.

He unfortunately got it really badly for about 1.5 days.  His sickness is throwing up :(  Poor guy.  But it hits him hard and fast but then its over with.  He got sick Monday-Tuesday and he had to get better by Wednesday because he had a mandatory orientation at WMU on Wednesday.  He did get better enough to go, which is good.  I took the kiddos down there too because the house was getting worked out and we kinda checked out the area.  We got to hang out with a friend that is now attending WMU for the day so that was nice to catch up.  It was a huge help with the kids too!

We did get Gaetan's schedule.  It doesn't look like he's gonna have to be on campus a whole lot.  It looks like Tuesday is going to be his long day (probably at least 13 hours) but the other days aren't too bad.  I think he's getting excited about starting!  I can't believe that its coming so quickly!

Well, here's to the weekend and hoping that we all get better and that nobody else gets sick!  Enjoy the rest of summer...

JVG

No sick days for Mommas

Unfortunately since the last time I blogged I have been super sick.  Whatever Tristan had I have been so lucky enough to take over.  I started to not feel so good after naptime on Thursday... and I can always tell when I'm going to get a fever because my body aches and my head starts getting these shooting pains, what feels like my brain stem.  But we were having company over so I pushed through and kept on trucking.  I went to bed with the kids that night because I figured that the more sleep I could get the better!  However, Lucy woke up every 2-3 hours... which is CRAZY for her!  The first time she woke up I checked my temp and I was north of 102... yuck.  And the worst part about getting sick for me is fevers.  I would take runny nose, cough anything over getting a fever.  It somehow just shuts down my entire body and then I'm cold/hot achy mess!

I've been lucky that Gaetan has been home this entire time to watch Tristan while I lay around feeling poorly.  On Friday he took him playing all morning and then to the children's museum after naptime so that the house would be a little bit quiet so I could get some rest.  But pretty much Friday I would wake up with Lucy, which she was up again every 2-3 hours to feed her and that was about it.  I remember getting really really sick when Tristan was about her age and worried about my milk production lowering too... which I think it has, but it seems like they are still getting enough food.  It makes me think that the reason why she's getting up so often is so that she can eat enough... so that's good.  Not good that we're not getting a ton of sleep, but you know, good for her :).

I stayed at my fever of about 102-103 all day Friday and into the early morning Saturday... but then I finally broke my fever around 2 a.m.  I woke up and was SO SWEATY.  Like way more sweaty then I ever am while exercising... its crazy talk.  I started to feel a little better, but then realized that I hadn't eaten since Thursday too... But with the fever gone I realized that my throat was on fire!  That is usually the first thing I get when I get sick... my tonsils and lymphnodes get really swollen and we find these nasty white things on them.  When I was little we would always go to the Dr's to see if it was strep but it never was.

So that's basically where I am now.  I get wiped energy wise doing the simplest tasks and my throat feels like I swallowed broken glass.  The house work has gone by the way side, but I'm trying to climb back on top slowly but surely.  I did get 2 loads of laundry, some dishes and make a grocery list done today.  Am looking forward to my bed, which is hopefully soon.  Hope I get better because laying around trying to make sure things are still going smoothly isn't going so well.

JVG

Anniversary date night

Yesterday we got to go on our date for our anniversary.  Yes, our anniversary was last month, but this was the first chance we've had to go out!  On the actual day my parents were in Africa and we were still potty training Tristan... so it just wasn't going to work out.

Our date night consisted of going to this culture club at one of our favorite wine bars... Bar Divani.  They were celebrating Indian culture, and they had some Bollywood dancers and even a Bollywood dance class demonstration!  It was a lot of friend... even better everything was free!  If we wanted to get drinks there we would pay for them, but we just ended up getting our favorite bottle of wine and taking it home.  My parents were gracious enough to watch the kids, and since they had not been feeling well (Tristan) and had shots that day (Lucy) we didn't want to overuse their nice gesture of watching the kids.  We actually went with a good couple friend Lindsay and Greg.  It was nice to hang out with them in a different setting, without the kids.  It was nice to get out just me and him. It was a really strange feeling though because I am never without Lucy at least.  It was kinda strange because I felt like I forgot how to be just a couple already!  But we got into the swing of things :)

On the way to the place we were walking and my shoe broke!  Like 50 feet away from the car... so we walked to a few shoe places but didn't find anything.  So I looked a bit ridiculous with my broken shoe, but all is just fine :)  haha.  Very humorous actually.

We got home and the kids were great.  Lucy was already in bed but Tristan was still awake.  We just put him down, drank our wine, ate some candy and watched a show.  It was a nice relaxing way to finish the night.

I'm really glad that we can still enjoy each other's company without having the kids.  I love my kids to death and I love being a Momma, but this was a much needed break... and what better way then to spend it with the love of my life.  Happy 3 year anniversay babe. <3

JVG

All sorts of visitors!

This week has gone by particularly fast.  It seems like we have had a lot of out of town visitors... which is great!  We've also had a lot of appointments this week too, which has been keeping us busy.  It takes quite a bit more time to get the troops rallied, as I call it, and out the door.

Tristan had his 2 year check up and he weighed 27 lbs.  He was also 35 inches tall!  Lucy weighed in at 19 lbs and was 25 inches.  He is right in the 50th percentile for his height and weight... and well, Lu girl is off the charts.... like not even close!  We did a little comparison of the two kids when they were this age and younger and Lucy definitely outdid Tristan.  He started to plump out a little bit more after this time, so we shall see!  The shots have really taken their toll on poor baby girl today.  She has slept a ton and is getting up more than regular.  So pretty much gets up, eats, gets changed, burps and wants to sleep more.  Because of this I get to spend some more time with Tristan.

Today we got to have some friends visit that I went to high school with.  My friend Danielle is a missionary at the Hopi Reservation in Arizona.  She's been doing that since she graduated from high school.  Its really cool to watch and see how obedient she is to God's calling in her life... and I'm really glad that we could keep in touch all this time!  Another really good friend Beaker came to visit.  He lives in Seattle but was home for a few days.  I would definitely say, besides Gaetan of course, that he is one of my best guy friends... definitely one I've known the longest.  Its always so good to visit with him.  I know that Tristan had a blast playing with him today.  :)

I also like having visitors over because it's not only great to catch up, but I know that the kids like having other people around.  Not only that, but then they can show off all their talents!  I know that Tristan loves playing games and showing off how clever he is.

This weekend is Baz's batizado.  So we will probably be seeing more out of town friends!  I am hoping that we can go... I'm starting to not feel so well.  Tristan had a fever of 103 this week so we haven't been getting a lot of sleep at night.. and then I probably just got whatever he had.  I am going to bed tonight close to 830... which is ridiculous, but I am looking forward to it!

Will keep you updated on how this weekend goes!  Pray for all the people who are traveling and pray that they stay healthy!

JVG

Celebrating Duder's birthday

This year we didn't have a huge bash for his birthday like we did last year.  We've been a little busy and I realize that most 2 year olds don't even remember their birthdays... so we thought that we would just do a few pretty chill things that he likes to do.  I was lucky enough that morning to sleep in til 11:45... which is ridiculous for a mother of 2 small children!  Lucy slept for 8 hours and then got up for an hour and went right back to sleep for another 5.  Gaetan got up with Tristan so that i could sleep some more.  It was unreal.  The night before I got 5 hours of sleep but broken up in 2.5 hour intervals.  This was heavenly!

That morning was rainy and stormy so we thought we'd do some things inside.  When he got up from his nap he went on a scavenger hunt to find his present!  It was adorable.  He loved it!  He got some Curious George learn how to read books.  He was so about them.  He also got a little wooden train set that's set up in his room.  Later that afternoon we went to the library so that he could play/read.  He played until the library closed :)  We did the normal Saturday night routine of pizza and I made ice cream cone cake.  Mike and Ingrid stopped by to help celebrate with us.  It was very chill and relaxed.  He seems to still be about all the birthday cards that he received and is loving the books still. 

JVG