Thursday, October 31, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 31 {The End}


Linkup at The Nester blog
This has been 30 days of growth for me. It's pretty tough to blog every.single.night. It's even tougher to blog on the same subject every single night. Next year I think my topic will be a little more broad.

But, it has been god to flex my writing muscles and it has been good to focus on the positive. To search it out. I've recalled some sweet memories and more than once I have smiled as I wrote a post.

I'd like to thank the inspiration for this month's blog posts, my husband John. It was a big moment with him when we said "I Do" that has led me to this place in time.

I said goodbye to this month with a smile, and look forward to taking in many more John Moments as the years pass.

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 30


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Today I'm going to share a funny- the moments John hurts himself.

I think I've mentioned before that I have this sick problem of laughing when people get hurt, particularly falling. Now if the injury is truly serious, I don't laugh. But if it's minor and due to being uncoordinated or just dumb (un)luck, then I'm liable to bust a gut.

I can especially remember an injury when we were dating. We were at the church parking lot, headed to my car. John somehow managed to connect his toe to a parking beam. He banged it pretty bad. He was even bleeding a little (tiny) bit. But oh my, you would have thought it was amputated. I think he even got a little woozy at the sight of it.

I was about to choke from trying to stifle my laugh. It was a futile effort anyway. I just started laighing hysterically. I'm not sure if that's how John first learned about my sadistic tendency. I think it might have been. He was taken aback, but was a good sport about it.

Now, a few times since then, when he has hurt himself, if it's really painful he'll grunt out "don't laugh" as he's hyperventilating. A few times I've really had to work hard not to.

And he also jokes around that if he needs to get a laugh out of me, he just needs to hurt himself. For a chuckle, just trip, for a belly laugh, draw blood. Often when he makes one of his corny jokes and I don't laugh, he'll say, "Oh I'm sorry, I know I didn't hurt myself so it wasn't funny. I'm not gonna hurt myself though, I wouldn't want you to pee your pants." It's pretty funny.

And I smiled writing this whole post.

Hi my name is Sarah and I laugh when people get hurt.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 29


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So today John is going to share his moment with Sophia.

Tonight Sophia and I went straight from MiMi's house (where I picked her up) to MawMaw's house (great grandma). We were hanging out and playing and waiting on John to get done with work and meet us there for dinner.

Well, when John came in the door, Sophia just got so happy and excited. And then John dropped to hands and knees and crawled over to her- saying "I'm gonna get youuuu". She of course squeaked and squealed. After he played with her a bit on the floor, he picked her up to toss her in the air. She LOVES this. And then when he was done tossing her, she plastered herself to him, and was pretty much giving him a hug. It was so sweet. If my phone wouldn't have been dead I would have tried to catch a picture of it.

And then, when he put her down next to me so he could go to the restroom, she burst into tears. She did not want him to go away just then.

It was all so sweet, and it makes my heart (and face) smile to see their bond.

Thanks for being a good daddy Papa Bear.

Monday, October 28, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 28


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John, remember the moment when there were no words?

Only feelings... Feelings that can't be put into words.

This is one of those moments.

Love you babe.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 27


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Today John wowed me again.

This afternoon, Sophia took a 3. hour. nap. Praise Him. I napped for about 2 of those 3 hours. But John only napped about 30 minutes. And then he couldn't sleep.

So he went outside, and worked in the yard. You see, we have this corner in our yard that had a bunch of scrap wood, metal, vinyl siding and all kinds of weird stuff. The former owner had a small metal shed there. Once we got rid of the shed, that scrap was behind it.

It was really an eyesore to me, and I couldn't help but think that someday it would also be a safety issue for Sophia. I'd like the backyard to be a fun and safe place for her. And the scrap pile had thorns and weeds and stuff growing all up in it. And I'm sure some jagged edges and rusty nails just waiting for her perfect tender flesh. John reasoned that by the time she's old enough to be outside alone, she'd be old enough to know to stay away from such things. I was doubtful.

And there's still the issue that it felt very much like a "Sanford and Sons" corner to me. And I just hate things being unkempt and shaggy.

So when I woke up from my nap, it was all gone. Broken down, chopped up and in our trash cans. And the weeds left behind were mowed down.

And I felt a John moment of happiness and peace.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 26


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So my John Moments have kind of deteriorated into a "this is what John did today that makes me smile" theme, but at 10pm+ when I sit down to write, I think we've about covered all the really big moments I can think of.

Today, actually probably is a REALLY big moment. Today, a year and about 4 months since we finished our tile floor, JOHN FINISHED LAYING THE SHOE MOLDING (or "quarter round")!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is part of the "I like it when John does home repair projects" I mentioned here.

This has been a constant nagging at the back of my mind since the floors were laid.

Now John is caulking the trim. And after that it really needs painting. But I'm happy just to have the primed wood strips down!

If I could have someone else come and caulk and paint my baseboards, repaint all my wood trim, cabinets and doors with latex paint and fix all our dresser drawers, I would be one happy lady. If they could make it all happen in one day I'd feel like I'm in a dream!
Side note: never use oil based paint in white- it yellows super quick.

OH- and did I mention- ALL THE TRIM IS LAID!!!!!!

Friday, October 25, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 25


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Tonight John and I went to a hockey game, and about half way through he started letting me move his arms for him in the victory dance at goal time. Then at the end he even got up and danced with me.
I love it when we get to feel like "kids" again.
Being there made me think of when we went to another hockey game, just about a month before we got married. It was a sweet time in life. John was really excited about getting married and so was I. It was probably also a stressful time, but I blocked that out :)
I wore John's baseball hat (he loves me in ball caps), and I remember him saying to me- "That's right folks, she's mine in just a month."
And probably other inappropriate things that made me giggle.
It was a great moment then and a sweet moment now.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 24


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Today I was touched at a simple John Moment, not at all uncommon in our house, but worth sharing.

John was talking to Sophia and saying "I'm going to put you in your chair, and I'm going to feed you, because I love you. 

It's so sweet to hear John tell Sophia he loves her. I'm so glad he's so happy with his baby girl. I know not all dads are as involved with their kids as they should be, and that makes me sad. For both parties. And no, John's not a total Mr. Mom. That's ok, cause God designed him to be a dad.

Sometimes I worry about if he'll be able to give Sophia all the things she needs to grow into a healthy, well adjusted, well rounded, emotionally secure woman. I worry the same things about myself.

But my worries are eased each time I hear him say "I love you baby girl" and each time I see him down on his hands and knees to play with her. 

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 23


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Today John rubbed my feet with coconut oil. I cannot think of any better John Moment all week long.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 22


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I'm all out of big moments that I can think of, but still plenty of little ones left.

Here's a few things lately that have made me proud of John.

He's been actively searching about a career change, looking at college programs and talking to people working in the field to see about pay and job stability.

He's been actively searching jobs to hold while he's in school.

He cleaned the kitchen tonight.

He's getting better at his rabbit sexing skills. I know, it's crazy that I'm proud he's getting better at determining a rabbit's gender. But it shows his skills are increasing.

I'll say again- he watches Little House on the Prairie and enjoys it :)

He makes tasty popcorn.

He didn't say anything when I pilfered his popcorn.

He likes the name Laura as an option since we both love LHOP. It could only be better if he'd like Aubrey too :)

Monday, October 21, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 21


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Today I'm thankful for the moments when John fixes things.
Like the moment you realize your laptop charger cord has been completely severed in two and he says "I think I can fix that".
And then he does.
Love that (handy) man.

Sunday, October 20, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 20


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Sometimes John moments happen all day long.

Like today. John sings often. Made up songs of his own concotion.

Today- I think he sang about 50% of the time I was near him.  Almost all the way to church, and some on the way home. In between Sunday School and Sunday service. I think the only times he was not singing he was watching UFC or LHOP with me.

He thinks his songs are wonderful and expects to be told so. Much in the way a kid says "Look mom look mom look mom are you looking look watch this". The subject matter is so varied and bizarre that I try and a lot of times succeed at tuning it out. Albeit, sometimes he is saying nice things about me. But it all gets lumped in together and I tune that out too. He is pretty offended that I ignore it. But could you make yourself enjoy and applaud ballads about stinky farts, girls dressed inappropriately, sweaty balls, diarrhea and the like?

I tell myself that it will be good training for when I have small kids constantly wanting attention. But it's also hard to extend the same grace to your adult husband that you do to your kids. I expect a bit more from him, and I don't think that's abnormal.

Honey, I am glad you enjoy singing so much. But please don't be upset that I'm not hanging on your every word. Mmkay?

Saturday, October 19, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 19


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The moment John (and mine) lives changed forever.

I'd taken a test late at night, before my period was due. It was negative. Ish. A very faint line appeared after sitting for longer than 10 minutes. So I took another one the next morning.

 I decided to shower and get dolled up before waking the unsuspecting dad-to-be. Then I got the t-shirt I'd made months ago (with a free offer from Vistaprint, TUVM) that was from the "baby" saying he/she loved dad and would see him soon. John was a bit taken back since I'd just awakened him. I told him I had a late anniversary present for him. And then let him open the bag. He read the shirt and then dropped it and said "Are you pregnant?". I said yes and then got an "awwww, baby" and a big hug. And then we laid there awhile, soaking it in. John wondering if the baby would "mow grass or wash dishes." Lol.

It wasn't a huge reaction- because it was like 6-6:30 am. And also because I think he was as shocked as I was. Even though you've been trying for it, it's still shocking when it actually happens. But John has been a great father since Day 1. It's in part because John put in some "tough love" to get Sophia on a schedule while I was at work that she goes to bed/nap pretty easily.

He doesn't do everything just like I do, but it's ok. He and Sophia relate differently than Sophia and I ever will. And it's supposed to be that way.

Friday, October 18, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 18


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Doing the mobile app again...
The other night John shared some of his deeper thoughts/feelings with me. It is literally like pulling teeth when it comes to talking about serious feelings with John. I really have to strive to get much beyond yes and no. I hear this is common with men.
Anyway, I told him I don't even feel like I really know him, or like anyone really does, because he won't open up. He said he didn't know how to fix that. Apparently I only think there's all this hidden angst, debate, fear or displeasure.
He did tell me the options he's been considering as far as his next career move. It really helped me to hear he's been thinking through things.
Sometimes it's still really hard for me to understand that guys aren't thinking and analyzing almost all the time like girls are. But it sure doors help me feel like we're in a truly connected covenant relationship when John shares deep thoughts with me, especially voluntarily.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 17


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You know last night I realized that my laptop cord was laying on the floor next to me! Grrr.

The moment John made it crystal clear he was ready to have children.

It was Thanksgiving 2011. We were at our friend's house having lunch. They have a tradition of going around the table and saying something they're thankful for that year, and something they hope will happen in the next year.

When it came to John's turn, he said "And I hope we have a kid by next year". WHAT THE HECK! He totally just blurted that in front of everyone. I was certainly surprised. Until that point he hadn't seem overly excited about having kids. He would tell you he doesn't like kids, but he thinks he'll like his own. (Still true, he likes very few kids but Sophia). I had planned on waiting another 6 months before we started trying. Apparently he now had other desires. Very public desires.

So I gave it some thought, and decided to finish my (then) current month of birth control, and then stop. I mean it could take 6 months to get pregnant anyway, right? You just don't know. So almost 2 weeks into December I quit birth control, and on Christmas I told John I'd quit, Merry Christmas! 2.5 months after that we found out Sophia was on the way!

That moment is next...


Wednesday, October 16, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 16


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So I'm posting after John has gone to bed, my computer power cord is in the bedroom, and my laptop just died. I'm not a huge fan of publishing via the mobile app, so I'll keep it short and sweet.
I love John Moments where we relive those sweet exciting moments of courtship and the first couple months of marriage. Today was one of those times.
I love it when John calls me his "hot wife" and I get a few cat calls. When I hear "Baby you look good, I just want to squeeze you" lol.
I love John Moments where John is really happy and in a good mood. I like it when I'm the reason why.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 15

HALFWAY THERE!


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So tonight I'm reminded of the John Moments when John pulls out his guitar and makes up songs. When John sings acapella his songs are usually weird, silly, or crude. But when he plays his guitar and sings, the songs are usually soulful. I think this is because of his love of minor chords, and the fact that he doesn't know all that many.

But, the songs are so sweet. I liked it when he played for me, but now that Sophia is here I enjoy him playing for her even more. A couple times as a newborn he would play for her to get her to sleep. It makes my heart smile to see father/daughter bonding moments.

He's also about to start taking lessons so maybe one day he'll know sings I can sing along to!
I have this dream that we sit by a bonfire and sing and play worship songs. Or that maybe next year for our church camp we'll be good enough to sing and play together.

Who knows?

Monday, October 14, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 14


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I distinctly remember a time in our dating when I thought to myself- "this guy is really cute".

We had been to the beach that day (back when love was young and John would do just about anything to spend time with me and even enjoyed it! Or faked it well :)). When we came back to my house, we decided to wash our cars. We were washing John's car in the front yard, and I think I slung some soapy water on him. And then he turned the hose on me. And we were just laughing and having a good time.

I looked over, and John was wet with water dripping off his hair, but he was smiling so big. That genuine smile of his is wonderful. And I remember thinking- what a cutie! Lucky me!

And the memory still makes me smile.

That is all.

Sunday, October 13, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 13




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The moments when John is angry.

Yesterday John was really upset with our dogs. Our pup is digging holes in the yard. Possibly after a mole, but nonetheless, holes. He is adequately exercised, so it shouldn't be pure boredom.

Then there's Ernie. Needy needy needy Ernie. He had a really hard time sharing his attention with Sophia, but I think also sharing with Eli now has put him over the edge. He sleeps in the garage, we put him outside more to keep Eli company. He probably gets 1/4 of the attention he used to and hears the word "no" 10 times more than he used to. No don't jump up here, no don't lick Sophia in the mouth, no, down, outside, in your kennel.

So Ernie has become an escape artist. Digging, squeezing under weak parts of the fence. Sometimes within mere minutes of going outside. It's really beginning to be a BIG pain.

So one time, Eli chewed the foam padding off the handle of my stroller. This was after weeks of chewing, and using the bathroom in the garage. I got really upset and Eli I hated him. I was really angry, but just blowing off steam.

Well, John was ready to haul him off the pound then and there. His parents had a lot of problems over animals in their relationship (one loving them no matter what havoc they wreaked and one wanting to get rid of them). John is very sensitive in this area, and he wasn't going to have that happen to us. I basically had to tell him I don't just drop animals at the pound once I've committed to taking them into our home. That I was angry and we just needed to figure out a better way to handle Eli. (Aka he's now locked out of the garage except sleeping).

Anyway, today John was really upset about the digging. And he was talking about getting rid of them. We talked about who should go and why, or who should stay and why. Of course there was no good answer.
In the end, I think John was just blowing off steam like I was before. For now he's re-re-re-inforced the fence where Ernie is getting out.

But it made me feel good that he could get really mad at the dogs too, and that in no uncertain terms would the dogs ever come before me or even be on the same level as me.

Saturday, October 12, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 12



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Today I'm going to share another "big" moment.

The moment John proposed.

I knew it was coming. We'd been looking at rings online. I also knew John wanted it to be a surprise.
We were headed to Tampa for me to meet his mom and sister for the first time. I'd only met his dad and other sister once before. It had been almost one year since we met. We were actually headed out on another cruise with the same group, but went a few days early to spend time with his family before driving to the Tampa cruise terminal. We had a lot planned. I knew he was taking me on a boat on Crystal River. We'd spent the night before wit his two sisters and dad. Later that day I was scheduled to meet his mom.

So, that morning we went out on the boat. I was pretty impressed that John wasn't afraid to rent a boat and just go! It was an overcast day, but nice. He took me to the Three Sisters Springs where we anchored the boat and hopped in the chilly water. Through a lagoon type area and then suddenly the water is crystal clear. We explored a bit and swam. Drove the boat around. Relaxed.


Then we drove about an hour to his mom's house, but no one was there. They'd gone out to do a 5K and run errands. John was rushing me to change and hurry up so we could go to lunch. He kept mentioning I could wear this white sundress if I wanted. I told him I wanted to save it for our planned dinner that night.

He finally got me in the car. Then we were driving around. It didn't look like we were headed towards civilization and a restaurant and I was hungry and perturbed! He kept saying he was looking for this park his mom wanted him to look at for her real quick to see if she could hold a part there or something. Don't know why I believed him. Finally we found it.

We got out, and there was a lookout tower. John is afraid of heights. He suggested we go up and I was like "But you're afraid of heights." He said he'd be ok. We were standing on the platform just looking, not talking much. He was acting weird. I think then it kinda started to sink in. But there were some kids running up and down the tower, laughing, throwing shoes down and such.
View from the tower

John looks ill because he's so nervous!

John saw a long walkout over the marsh and suggested we go there. By then I had a pretty good clue what was going on and so I obliged. But some people followed us out there. We stood and waited for them to go away, still not talking much. Finally they left. And finally- John asked me if I would go to lunch with him...as his fiance. And then quickly popped to his knee (he'd forgotten!) I of course said yes! and we hugged. Then he took me back to the car where he had hidden a picnic lunch his mom made. It started to rain so we setup our lunch in a pavilion. It was so sweet.


Then we went back to his mom's house and I met his mom for the first time, as her future daughter-in-law. Guess she really hoped she'd like me since John had already asked me into the family! Lol.
We went out for Brazilian BBQ that night with immediate and extended family. Then his sister threw us a little engagement dessert party! It was a great day!


Friday, October 11, 2013

31 Days of John Moments: Day 11

Ok so it's really hard to write this post and watch a movie.



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All I can say is, I love the moments John watches movies with me...
Especially if it's a scary one and he holds my hand. Not that we watch horror, but we do like action/suspense/sci-fi

Thursday, October 10, 2013

31 Days of John Monents: Day 10




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 Although I wasn't around for this moment, I love it

My little Megahusband
 What a toddie hottie!