Love, Laughter and Life

Ready to Celebrate!

2011-12-18T16:55:00.000-08:00

Don't these two look ready for Christmas! We've been counting down the days since December 1. I have a feeling that this is going to be our best Christmas ever! It's not just because Jackson and Haley are more into presents than ever before. It's also because they love and know Jesus more than ever before, and they are ready to celebrate His birthday!

The other day, Haley asked Jackson why we get presents if Christmas is Jesus' birthday. He paused and then very matter-of-factly replied "Because that is how much he loves us!" Good answer!

Wise Words

2011-12-08T17:35:00.000-08:00

I came across this poem today by Sharon Jaynes. I loved it and hope you do too!

Love, 1 Corinthians 13

If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime: but do not show love to my
family, I'm just another cook.

If I work at a soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity; but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the spouse.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love does not envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table
linens.

Love does not yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way.

Love does not give only to those who are able to give in return; but rejoices in giving to those who cannot.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never fails.

Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust; but giving the gift of love will endure.

~ Sharon Jaynes

Our little reader...

2011-10-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Jackson has become quite the reader lately... and Haley has too! Remember this? (Isn't that the cutest thing ever??) Well, Haley has moved on from "Brown Bear" and has now mastered "Polar Bear." Here she is showing off her (memorization) skills.

Is it me, or does she just keep getting cuter? :)

Off to Preschool...

2011-09-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

Take One: September 2008

Take Two: September 2011

Brotherly, Sisterly LOVE

2011-09-10T16:59:00.000-07:00

We have our fair share of sibling rivalry in our home, but when all is said and done, these two are the best of buds, and I couldn't be more thankful that they have each other!

Tiny Turtles!

2011-08-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

This past week we not only got to babysit for our sweet Lauryn, we also got to turtle sit for the week! It was so fun! Much better than dog or cat sitting... no mess to clean up, no noise, and very little work. Plus, I never knew that baby turtles were so cute! Today, our neighbors came home and we had to say goodbye to our new four-legged friends (which was especially tough on our firstborn). I think next spring I'm going to keep my eyes peeled for a baby turtle roaming around... we would be happy to give him a happy home until fall. I'm not quite ready to invest in a home aquarium tank for the house to keep the turtles happy (and alive!) through the winter. They aren't quite that cute!

The Things We Do for our Kids

2011-07-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

"C'mon mom, you try. It's easy. It feels cool."

Guess what? He was right!

Ouch!

2011-06-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

Our Haley girl took her first summer spill... a face plant into the driveway. Poor thing. Good thing she is one tough cookie... and a sweet cookie at that! :)

I hope this is that last injury of the summer, but with all the hiking, biking, scootering, swimming, running and rough-housing we plan on doing this summer, there's probably more "oopsies" on the horizon. I'll just look at them as another reason to go out for ice cream! After all, mint chocolate chip makes everything feel better! :)

A Day for Dads

2011-06-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

I could never put into words how much I admire Dave as a dad, so I won't even try. I'll just say there is no one else I would rather have as my partner on this wild adventure called parenting!

Happy Father's Day Honey!

My kids got a great dad, and so did I! Happy Father's Day Dad! We may be all grown up, but we are still your girls. We love you!

It's just a backpack...

2011-06-09T17:39:00.000-07:00

Summer vacation started a few days ago, and yet I still have Jackson's backpack hanging in my kitchen... his dirty, torn, and put together with duct-tape backpack. I have been waiting for the past couple of weeks for school to be over so I could throw this thing into the dumpster where it belongs. But for some reason, I can't seem to let it go.

I'm not usually the sentimental type. I don't keep every picture my kids ever made me, and I don't plan to keep every tooth they lose. In fact I usually don't have any trouble throwing things away. So what is it about this backpack?

I think to me, this backpack represents Jackson growing from a little guy into a big guy. We've gotten a lot of life out of this bag (and it's not even a Jansport!) You see, Jackson has never gone to school without this blue, green and black piece of fabric. He used it for three-year-old preschool, four-year-old preschool and Kindergarten (Can you tell we are dutch?).

Here is the backpack's first appearance in our photos, taken on Jackson's first day of preschool...

and here is it's last, taken on his last day of kindergarten .

No, I'm not going to try and get one more year out of this raggedy thing, but I'm not going to dump it either. I'm going to hang it in the back of Jackson's closet and someday down the road, I'll pull it out and remember the days when I had a little guy. When I see that backpack I'll remember this:

But for now I'll enjoy (or try to enjoy) every second with my not-so-little guy... the one who is reading, doing math problems, and learning Bible verses better than I ever could have hoped. We got Jackson's report card this week and he did awesome!! We are extremely proud. There's only one thing he needs to work on.... working without disturbing others. Yep! That sounds like my guy!!

I know it's just a backpack, but to me, it's a symbol of my precious Jackson becoming everything God wants him to be... and that's priceless!

I want to be just like you...

2011-05-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

... cause they want to be like me.

I love this song by Phillips, Craig and Dean!

He climbs in my lap for a goodnight hug

He calls me Dad & I call him Bub
With his faded old pillow & a bear named Pooh
He snuggles up close & says, "I wanna be like you"
I tuck him in bed & I kiss him goodnight
Trippin´ over the toys as I turn out the light
And I whisper a prayer that someday he will see
He has got a father in God ´cause he has seen Jesus in me

Lord, I wanna be just like You

´Cause he wants to be just like me
I wanna be a holy example
For his innocent eyes to see
Help me be a living Bible, Lord
That my little boy can read
I wanna be just like You
´Cause he wants to be like me

Got to admit I have got so far to go

Make so many mistakes & I am sure that You know
Sometimes it seems no matter how hard I try
With all the pressures in life I just can´t get it all right
But I am trying so hard to learn from the best
Being patient & kind, filled with Your tenderness
´Cause I know that she will learn from the things that she sees
And the Jesus she finds will be the Jesus in me

Lord, I wanna be just like You

´Cause she wants to be just like me
I wanna be a holy example
For her innocent eyes to see
Help me be a living Bible, Lord
That my little girl can read
I wanna be just like You
´Cause she wants to be like me

Right now from where they stand we may seem mighty tall

But it is only ´cause we're learning from the best Father of them all!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

One thing is for sure... I hit the Mom Jackpot! My mom is the most caring, thoughtful, generous lady I know. I am so thankful that I am her daughter. Every good quality I possess as a mom came straight from her! Mom, all the sacrifices you have made for the past 3+ decades have not gone unnoticed. Sometimes I feel like I need you more now than when I was a little girl. I love you mom!

My prayer is that when Haley is my age, she and I have the kind of relationship my mom and I have today!

And a Mother's Day post would not be complete without a shout out my wonderful mother-in-law who brings so much joy into our lives! We are so thankful for you.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. Never forget that we are creating cathedrals and that is a holy calling!

She

2011-04-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

She is the littlest member of our family.

She loves going to music class, storytime and church.

She is still quite shy, but is starting to come out of her shell.

She will start preschool in the fall.

She is a precious gift.

She is loved!

Let's Party!

2011-03-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

We are wrapping up a week full of celebrations in honor of our fabulous firstborn! We had a party with friends, a party with the Zuidema side, a party with the Pohler side, and our own little family party. Whew! I'm tired just thinking about it! Too sleepy to write much tonight, but I hope these pictures show you just how much fun we all had... especially the birthday boy! He sure is loved!

Make a wish!

Cousins

Pizza Time

Grandma Z. makes the best cakes!

Another awesome present

Pinata time!

"Thank you!"

What could it be?

Yummy

Gummy worm cupcakes

The boys in Jackson's class. Yep, five boys and 13 girls.

It's going to be interesting when they hit 8th grade!

Tree frog cake pops... Jackson's birthday treat at school

The birthday boy!

Somebody's six!

2011-03-23T05:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to our precious firstborn son! Jackson, you have filled our lives with so much love and laughter! The 8 pound, 11 ounce baby that God gave to us six years ago has become a sweet, silly, smart little boy. Out of all the millions of children God could have blessed us with, he chose to give us you, and we will be forever grateful. You are a gift like no other!

You walk through life with confidence, courage, enthusiasm, and a wonderful sense of humor. We are proud of you Buddy! God gave us all a light to shine in this world and yours is especially bright... shine on Little Man. We love you!

Matthew 5: 16: "Let your light shine before men that they might see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven."

Lost

2011-03-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

Jackson lost something yesterday.

Yep! The tooth fairy made her first visit to the Zuidema house!

The other week in school, Jackson was learning the difference between "wants" and "needs." For an assignment, he had to list and draw two things he needed and two things he wanted.

The needs? A house and food.

The wants? A wiggly tooth and Mario Kart. He got one of his wishes! And don't tell him, but the other one will not be far behind. It's his birthday this week!

I can't win!

2011-03-08T16:42:00.000-08:00

Today Jackson started squirting Haley with a spray bottle, and she was not too happy about it.

"Why would you do that?" I asked him.

He answered without missing a beat. "Jesus tells us to do unto others as we would have them do unto us, and I love getting squirted with a spray bottle... that's why!"

I've said it before... this kid is good.

Daddy Dave

2011-02-15T16:07:00.001-08:00

Let me tell you about Dave as a dad. He really is the kind of dad all kids deserve to have, and the kids adore him. He is very involved... playing games with Jackson and Haley, tickling them, tucking them into bed at night. He plays Wii with Jackson and doctor with Haley. He provides for them and prays with them and for them. He listens to The Wiggles CD in his car (which could drive any adult crazy) and watches Boz, Care Bears and Max and Ruby. He makes Mickey Mouse pancakes and hides special treats in Jackson's lunch box. He is strict when he needs to be and merciful when the time is right. He takes the kids to run errands while I enjoy a quiet house to myself. He makes snowmen with them, washes cars with them, compliments them, talks with them. He makes sure that Jackson and Haley know that no matter what, their daddy is always going to love them!

Dave, I know I don't say it enough, but I'm so glad that the kids that call me mom are the same ones that call you dad. I'd say we make a pretty good parenting team. You are officially "World's Best Dad." Do you want me to buy you a shirt that says that? :)

Chuck E. Cheese and Chocolate Cake

2011-02-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

Haley had two wishes for her third birthday... she wanted to go to Chuck E Cheese and she wanted to eat chocolate cake!

Yep! All her birthday dreams came true! Thanks to everyone who helped us celebrate!

1,2,3!

2011-01-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

Guess who is turning three tomorrow?

You guessed it!

One....

Two....

THREE!

Happy Birthday to our precious Haley Brooke! We can't imagine our life without you. You have brought so much joy and happiness to our family, and you are the sweetest little girl we know. You are kind, thoughtful, loving and bright... all wrapped up in one adorable little package. We love you more than words can say, and can't wait to see all that God has planned for you. Shine on sweet girl!

Pancakes and Prayer Requests

2011-01-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, Jackson had a buddy from school over and they were talking about what they wanted for Christmas. His friend was convinced he was going to get a Nintendo DS.

"I told my mom I wanted it, and I know she is going to get it for me, " he said.

Jackson's comeback? "Well guess what my mom does? She makes colored pancakes!"

So there!

It's true... Jackson loves pancakes and he has them several mornings a week for breakfast. And just to make them a little more fun, we add some food coloring to the mix. Not a big deal to me, but clearly a big deal to Jackson. Yep, sometimes the little things in life have the biggest impact... especially with kids!

(And just in case you think I wake up early every morning to prepare my kids a hot breakfast, think again! I make a batch of pancakes - from a box - once a week and stick them in the fridge. Daily breakfast consist of tossing them in the microwave. I'm too tired, busy and lazy to turn the stove on before 10:00 AM.)

And speaking of my sweet Jackson... if you think of it, would you send up a prayer for him? Over Christmas break he developed a facial tic. It's oftentimes barely noticeable, but sometimes rather alarming. We took Jackson to the doctor this week, and they gave him a neurological exam. The doctor found no medical reason for the tics (thank God!), so the doctor thinks that they are stress induced. If Jackson's recent prayers are any indication - "God please don't let our house catch on fire, and please don't let any anyone die while I'm sleeping" - our five-year-old has a lot of worries on his mind. Please pray that God blesses Jackson with peace, and gives Dave and I the wisdom we need to walk through this trial with our precious firstborn.

We love our sweet, spunky son so much and we want him to live life secure, knowing that God has a special plan for him!

To: Jesus From: Haley

2010-12-27T06:18:00.000-08:00

Blessed

2010-12-24T19:31:00.001-08:00

We may not be millionaires, but when I look at this picture I feel like the richest woman in the world.

Yum!

2010-12-24T19:24:00.000-08:00

Look at these Christmas Creations the kids made with Grandpa and Grandma! Our eyes and our tummies have been enjoying them all week!

Jolly Old St. Nick

2010-12-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

We paid Santa a visit last week. Jackson's Christmas list is long, detailed and expensive. Haley's list is short, sweet and cheap... she wants puzzles of course!

Jackson marched right up to the man in red and jumped on his lap.

Haley wasn't going near the white-bearded guy if mom wasn't with her.

Just one more thing that highlights the different personalities my kiddos have. Jackson loved Santa when he was two! (Yes, it's the same Santa!)

One thing is for sure... we can't wait to celebrate Christmas with our outgoing 5-year-old and our shy two (almost 3)-year old. We love them both so much, just the way they are! This Christmas we are thanking God for these two wonderful gifts!

Puzzles!

2010-12-02T17:03:00.000-08:00

Haley loves (is borderline obsessed with) puzzles! I've never been a puzzle person myself, but I find myself working on puzzles all the time these days. And we aren't talking about 12 piece board puzzles that most toddlers love. Oh no! Haley's current favorite is a 96 piece dinosaur puzzle. I hate to admit it, but she usually connects more pieces than I do, and not due to a lack of effort on my part. Did I mention that I wasn't much of a puzzle person?

Here is a short clip of my sweet girl in action.

Sorry!

2010-11-21T15:35:00.000-08:00

This week, Jackson played a complete game of Sorry with his little sister - from start to finish. I thought that was pretty impressive since Haley is two, and really had no idea what she was doing. He was incredibly sweet and patient with her. What made me very proud was that Haley came out on top - which means Jackson played fair despite having every opportunity to "stack the deck" in his favor! Way to go Jackson!

Maybe my little guy will have a future in teaching... if the negotiation thing doesn't pan out!

Creating Cathedrals

2010-11-07T09:41:00.000-08:00

I recently read these words on my cousin Shannon's blog.

I'm invisible.

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30 , please."

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going . she's going... she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it.

I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this." It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:

1. No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.

2. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.

3. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.

4. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it."
And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.

The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Live Simply.
Love Generously.
Care Deeply.
Speak Kindly.
Leave the rest to God

Here are my little cathedrals so far. I can't wait to see what they become.

Some days I get the building process done (almost) right, and other days things go (sometimes horribly) wrong. But God is the foreman on this project, and with Him in charge we are bound to end up with beautiful works of art.

And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Phillipians 1:6

Home Sweet Home

2010-11-01T15:51:00.000-07:00

Dave is home from China and we couldn't be happier! The week (8 days to be exact) he was gone went well for all of us, but life is always sweeter when we are all sleeping together under one roof. A big thank you to our family and friends who did sweet things to help me out while my better half was on the other side of the world. I am blessed!

And Mr. Sweetness himself was still thinking of thoughtful things he could do for me, even when he was so far away. Look what got delivered to me at work last week. Yep... he's a keeper!

Just because...

2010-10-25T17:09:00.001-07:00

A letter to John/Jane Doe

2010-10-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

To the person who smashed my son's pumpkin last night,

I really wish you could have seen Jackson's face when he found out you smashed his pumpkin on our driveway. He was crushed! He couldn't understand why anyone would do that on purpose, and frankly, neither could I. My hope is that if you had known how sad he would be, you wouldn't have done it.

In our family, we always try to look on the bright side. The good news is we had a great time carving the pumpkin with friends, and you can't take that away. Also, someday, years from now, when Jackson's friend asks him if he wants to go out and smash pumpkins, I hope he remembers how he felt today and makes a better choice. For the lesson he learned, I thank you.

No more pumpkin-smashing, OK?

Sincerely,

Mrs. Zuidema

Who says?

2010-10-15T16:56:00.000-07:00

Who says you can't utilize hand-me-downs when you have a son and a daughter? Not me, especially when they are my favorite article of clothing... footed PJs!

Oh Boy!

2010-10-08T18:07:00.000-07:00

This summer, I went down the slide into a pool, on my stomach no less. I haven't done that since I was a kid.

Recently, I held a frog for the first time ever... gross!

Lately, I've gotten pretty good at wrestling, playing dinosaurs, and jumping over mud puddles.

Why? Why would this girlie girl, who grew up in a family with sisters only, be found doing such unladylike things?

Because I have a son of course!

Jackson is all boy.... boisterous, loud, silly, rambunctious, impulsive, energetic. He is so much what I'm not. He challenges me, pushes me out of my comfort zone. But that is exactly where I want to be.

Why?

Because I don't want to be a mom who watches from the sidelines, giving advice and hearing about things after the fact. I don't want to miss out on his world, because I'm sitting comfortably in mine.

Thriving in a boy's world doesn't come easy for me, but the reward is so worth the effort. I dig deep and get dirty. I watch soccer games in the freezing rain. I put creepy-crawly bugs in tupperware containers. I swing until I feel nauseous . Someday Jackson will probably have me jumping out of an airplane or crawling through a cave.

God saw fit to give me a son, and I am so grateful.

A couple of weeks ago, Jackson told me "I'm glad I have a cool mom." Yep, those words are worth the warts I'll probably get from holding that awful frog!

A birthday bond

2010-09-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of Lauryn and Jackson because you can just see the love between the two of them. I think the relationship is extra special because they share a birthday. They both had a half birthday last week... now Jackson is five and a half, and Lauryn is zero and a half (as Jackson likes to say!).

Remember Punky Brewster?

2010-09-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

Don't you think she would have loved Haley's high-tops? I love them too!

Does he?

2010-09-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Does Jackson like kindergarten? Does he ever! His smile says it all.

Summer Send-off

2010-09-06T14:52:00.001-07:00

Our family decided to bid a fond farewell to summer with a trip to Binder Park Zoo. We had a great time!

And just as we were leaving, tired and content, we got to see something really cool... a mommy peacock with her babies. You don't see that every day!

Goodbye summer. You've been good to us!

Time to fly...

2010-09-02T14:44:00.000-07:00

My sweet Jackson starts kindergarten in 5 days.

Gulp. I get a lump in my throat just thinking about it.

His little legs are going to climb up those big bus steps.

He is going to make new friends and learn new things.

Most days, he is going to spend more waking hours away from me than he does with me.

And he is going to love it! And I am going to be happy for him... after I shed a few tears.

I always knew this day would come, but I can't say that I feel ready for it.

But Jackson's ready, and that's what matters.

I've spent five years giving him roots. Now it's time to give him wings.

(Don't expect to see that many pictures of me again for a VERY long time. Man, I didn't realize my hair color has changed so much over the years!)

Imperfectly Perfect

2010-08-26T17:01:00.001-07:00

Dave and I are not the perfect parents.We don't always ensure that our kids eat the recommended daily dosage of fruits and vegetables. Sometimes we let the TV play babysitter while we get a moment of peace and quiet. We don't always read to our kids 30 minutes a day, and we used to skip pages of books just to get through them quicker (We can't get away with that anymore.). We've even been known to get frustrated a time or two (or 10!).

Our kids aren't perfect either. Sometimes they wear clothes with stains on them, and their hair is a mess. They fight and whine. They don't always pick up their toys or finish the food that's on their plate. They have even been known to have a tantrum or two (or 10!).

But here's the thing. Somehow, despite all our imperfections, we manage to fit together perfectly! We love each other and pray for each other. We help each other out and are there for each other in the good times and bad, through the successes and failures. We are a team! And I'd say that's pretty... perfect!

Matia

2010-08-24T17:41:00.000-07:00

Our family sponsors a child from Uganda.

I still remember standing in the back of Sunshine Church, looking at all the photos of needy children, deciding which little one I wanted to choose. Honestly, my plan was to select a girl, a cute, little girl. But then I spotted this photo. And I fell in love.

There was something about that sweet, smiling face that called to me. We signed up to be Matia's sponsors, and have sent funds, letters, and an occasional package ever since. Matia loves soccer, struggles in school, has two younger sisters, lost his mother to AIDS, and loves God. His favorite color is yellow. He sends us beautiful letters a few times each year (once he even called me Mom), and he always signs them "May God bless you. Love, Matia."

Almost 8 years have come and gone, and this is what Matia looks like today.

Gone is the smiling little boy... Matia is practically a full-grown man. In two short years, Matia will be too old to be a sponsored child. That will be hard on me. We pray for Matia often, and Jackson frequently asks question about him and his life in Uganda. I would love to take the family and go meet him someday. I never want to lose touch with Matia, because I can't wait to find out what God has planned for his life!

Would you send up a prayer for Matia Sekiranda? I've never seen him or hugged him, but I really do love him. He lives on the other side of the world, but he's also found a very special place inside my heart.

Psalm 139: 13-14

2010-08-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

You are the one

who put me together

inside my mother's body,

and I praise you

because of

the wonderful way

you created me.

Everything you do is marvelous!

Of this I have no doubt.

Loving Lauryn!

2010-08-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

Mitch Albom had Tuesdays with Morrie, and we have Tuesdays with Lauryn. I babysit my beautiful niece Lauryn every Tuesday. How fun! She is the sweetest, cutest, most kissable baby I know! Don't you just want to smooch those cheeks?

Great minds think alike...

2010-08-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

I recently celebrated another year of life.

Here is my birthday card from my older (but not by much) sister Sara...

Here is my birthday card from my little sister Julie...

Wow! I must really be a sister who means so much!

Gone fishing...

2010-07-25T15:32:00.001-07:00

A big thanks to Uncle Chris for a fun morning out on the boat!

Fruit and Veggies, Please!

2010-07-18T16:37:00.000-07:00

They say you are what you eat. And if that's true, it's no wonder that Haley was the only one in our family to avoid the flu bug last week. She certainly is a healthy eater... choosing green beans over gummy bears, and strawberries over starbursts.

Remember this video? To this day, she still hasn't tried candy.

When we went to the 4th of July parade, Haley sat sweetly on the curb. While Jackson and the rest of the kids ran after the candy, Haley was content just to sit and watch all the action.

When it comes to eating, Haley goes for quality and quantity. Our little one can sure pack it in! Last night we were at a BBQ with friends, and Haley downed at least 7 pieces of watermelon. She gets it from her mommy. No one can put away a bag of Twizzlers like I can!

Yep, that's our girl. She's one of a kind, and we are so thankful she's ours!

All American Girl

2010-07-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

Our sweet girl is as American as apple pie and baseball!

Dive right in!

2010-07-05T17:16:00.000-07:00

What's summer without pool parties? We sure did our fair share of swimming this weekend! A big thanks to our friends Derek and Kim and Rob and Cami for hosting us this weekend for some fun in the sun. (Are you sick of us yet?)

Over the past few weeks, we have watched Jackson transform into a certified water rat! It wasn't long ago that he was scared to put his face in the water, and now he's jumping off the diving board and going down the slide. Tonight he was even doing those things with out his swimmies or life jacket. We are very proud!

The biggest news of the weekend is that I even jumped off the diving board and went down the slide (on my tummy even!). Might not seem like much, but Dave doesn't think he has seen me go under water more than a handful of times in our eight years (tomorrow!) of marriage. I didn't know what I was missing... what a blast!

Date Night

2010-07-02T17:15:00.001-07:00

Tonight I went out with a very special guy, just the two of us. We talked and laughed over dinner, and shared a hot fudge sundae. Then we walked around the mall, and picked out something from his favorite store.

Isn't he cute?

Yep, most of the conversation was about Vacation Bible School and starting Kindergarten, and the store of choice was the toy store, where Jackson just had to get "Left, Right, Center," a fun game that we play with the Pohler clan.

All in all, it was great date. I didn't even mind picking up the tab! :)

It's Daddy Day!

2010-06-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day Dave! You are such a wonderful father and our kids are blessed to call you dad. You make this adventure called parenthood so much fun, and there is no one else I would rather have as my teammate in raising Jackson and Haley. So much of the good I see in them comes from you. We love you!

And a big "Happy Father's Day" to the grandpas in our life. We are so thankful for your legacy of love!

Wishful Thinking

2010-06-14T18:15:00.000-07:00

Haley has always been so sweet, even tempered and good natured, for some reason I thought we would just smoothly sail right on by those oh-so-terrible twos. I don't think so! Our little sweetheart is learning that she doesn't get what she wants, when she wants it, and she is none too happy about it.

Operation Discipline is in full swing at the Zuidema house, and the good news is, we are already seeing some progress! They say to enjoy every stage, but this is one that can end sooner rather than later! =)

Future Microsoft Employee?

2010-06-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

You know how I told you that we have to limit Jackson's time on the Wii? Well now we have to limit Haley's time on the computer. Can you believe it? What two-year-old loves playing computer? That's our Haley girl! She moves that mouse around like it's nobody's business. She plays games, reads online stories, and listens to songs on Webkinz. She can even get to various sites since we made "favorites" on the top of the screen. And the thing is, I'm not really sure how she learned these skills. My guess is she watched her big brother. It must be one of those "second child" things. It is pretty cute watching her... she looks too little to be a techie!

Beauty and the Beach...

2010-06-03T16:57:00.001-07:00

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T10:14:00.000-07:00

The Jenison parade was cancelled this morning, so we took the kids to the Jamestown parade. We have just the right combo for a perfect Memorial Day parade - Haley, who could care less about candy and is obsessed with flags, and Jackson, who could care less about flags, but loves candy! We had a great time. Jackson won't have to share his candy with his sister, but he will be sharing with mommy!

Haley is sporting quite the outfit isn't she? Jackson's shades, a flag shirt, and rain boots, all accessorized with a Penguin backpack (thanks Grandma!). Haley is becoming quite the fashionista!

Here he is...

2010-05-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Our Wii playing, goal scoring, candy craving...

game winning, croc wearing, game show watching...

sister protecting, ever smiling, joke telling...

hand holding, friend making, pool swimming...

fast running, hug giving, fun loving Jackson.

The tradition lives on...

2010-05-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

Every year, Dave and I try to spend a weekend at Cedar point. It's kind of "our thing." Riding coasters is something that we both love to do, and Cedar Point somehow makes us feel 18 again!

We went this past weekend with our friends, Todd and Michelle. We had a blast! And though I swore I would never ride the Top Thrill Dragster again, of course, I did. Both Michelle and I conquered our fear and took the plunge... the 420 foot plunge at 120 miles per hour. What a thrill! We made a whole bunch of great memories and came home with stories that we will laugh about in years to come!

My Girl

2010-05-15T18:30:00.000-07:00

I've got sunshine

On a cloudy day.

When it's cold outside,

I've got the month of May.

Well, I guess you'll say

What can make me feel this way?

My girl. (My girl, my girl)

Talkin' 'bout my girl. (My girl)

Priceless...

2010-05-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

Here is my Mother's Day card from Jackson.

It really is more precious to me than a dozen roses or a diamond necklace (well, the diamond necklace may be pushing it!). Who knew that making macaroni could mean so much to my little guy?

A big Happy Mother's Day to ALL the moms out there!

Life Lately....

2010-05-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here are a few tidbits from our lives recently...

*** Dave and I did our first 5K run, and it went really well. We accomplished our goal of jogging the whole thing. We are considering doing a 10K someday (gasp!). It sure felt good to cross that finish line, and it was fun to enjoy the morning with the rest of Dave's family.

*** Dave's grandma's health is declining quickly, and unless God has a different plan, she probably doesn't have much longer to live. Please pray for Honeygram and the rest of the family during this difficult time.

*** Jackson is enjoying playing AYSO soccer on Tuesday nights, and we love watching him. Nobody plays any sort of position, and there really are no rules... it's all about having fun! Jackson may not have the strongest foot on the field, but he certainly has the biggest smile!

*** Jackson is wrapping up his last year of preschool, and anxiously awaits going to Kindergarten. This Thursday, he has his last field trip of the school year, and he invited Grandpa P. to join him. They are going to ride the train in Coopersville. Jackson can't wait... and I think Grandpa's pretty excited too. After a lot of prayer and discussion, Dave and I have decided that Jackson will be going to full day Kindergarten next year at Jenison Christian. It's going to be a big adjustment having Jackson gone all day, but we know that he is going to thrive! It's sure hard to let them go though, isn't it?

*** We look forward to a wonderful summer! We already have plans to go to Cedar Point (just mom and dad), Michigan's Adventure, and on a little camping trip. And we know we will have tons of fun swimming, going to parks, and just hanging out. Plus baby Lauryn will be spending Tuesdays with us, which will add to our excitement.

*** Haley seems like such a big girl these days. She loves puzzles, singing, and swinging. She is just as sweet and lovable as she's always been, with just enough feistiness to keep things interesting. :)

Well, I guess that's it for now. Hope life finds you happy and smiling!

Jackpot!

2010-04-19T18:15:00.000-07:00

The other day, Jackson said the sweetest thing to me. Out of nowhere, he told me that he hit the mommy jackpot because he got me for a mom. I'm not sure where that came from, but I sure loved it!

To ensure that I don't paint too much of a "Beaver Cleaver" image of our family, I should share this too. That same child, when I told him that I couldn't play Racko with him because I had to fold laundry, told me that "I make his life totally boring." Well then.

But, all in all, Jackson is our sweet, little charmer, and Dave and I totally feel like we won the kid lottery!

No words needed...

2010-04-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

The Z-clan!

2010-04-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

Meet team Zuidema! We are all running/walking a 5K at Calvin College on April 24. Dave and I have set a goal to jog the whole thing, and we have both been "training." I must admit, when the race is over, I'll probably go back to my exercise of choice... walking. =)

Meet Lauryn...

2010-04-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

Here she is... Lauryn Marie! Isn't she one of the cutest little babies you have ever seen? She definitely makes my top three.

This aunt thing is EVERYTHING it is cracked up to be. I love it! I get to snuggle her and love her and spoil her, and it all comes without sleep deprivation. It doesn't get much better than that.

We love you sweet Lauryn, all of us. Even Haley seems to have quickly moved past the jealous stage and into the "little mommy" stage. She loves holding her new cousin.

We are so happy to have this precious new addition to the family. And Lauryn is one blessed baby girl. She has a mommy and daddy that adore her and are committed to being the parents God wants them to be.

Happy hunting!

2010-04-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

This morning, my parents and I took the kids to an Easter Egg Hunt at their church. There were a TON of eggs, and we came home with a whole lot of candy. In case you are wondering, Haley still refuses to eat any form of candy, so her brother promised that he would help rid her of her bounty. We were told that there was one silver egg, and whoever found that egg would get a special prize. Despite Jackson's good fortune in the past, he did not find the silver egg... but we still had a lot of fun.

And as we pick out special outfits for church tomorrow, and eat Easter candy, and look for Easter eggs, we also remember the remarkable gift Jesus gave to us when he gave us his life. He is risen, and that is the best thing about Easter!

Birthday Blessings!

2010-03-28T18:19:00.001-07:00

Jackson had a wonderful birthday...

... full of cake,

presents,

and fun!

But the best part of his birthday? The arrival of his new baby cousin, Lauryn Marie! They were born exactly five years apart.

More pictures and details about Lauryn to come, but let's just say that we are pretty smitten!

Happy Birthday Jackson!

2010-03-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my fabulous, first-born five-year old! Your birthday isn’t for another two days, but Tuesday is going to be a very busy day for us, so I thought I would write your birthday message tonight. Your very first cousin is likely doing to be born on your fifth birthday, and you couldn’t be happier! I can’t wait either Buddy!

Five years ago I was given an incredible gift - my 8 pound, 11 ounce beautiful baby boy. That night, you and I were getting to know each other in the hospital, and I remember looking down at you, and being so overwhelmed with the love I felt for you. I still feel that way. Sometimes I still can’t believe that I have the honor and pleasure of being your mom.

Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you Jackson! You really are a remarkable little guy... funny, caring, bright, brave, enthusiastic. You are everything I hoped you’d be... with a few extra “ingredients” that I may not have ordered, but they make you who you are and help to keep things interesting. =) We have so much fun together... playing games, going on bike rides, reading books, watching game shows, running races around the house, playing soccer. You are not only my son, but also my little buddy.

God has big plans for you Jackson. Always remember that your gifts and talents are from God, so make sure to use them for His glory. Your name means “gracious one,” and my hope for you is that you can live out that calling. There are so many “words of wisdom” that I want to instill in you. But, for now, I’ll summarize them all in one sentence - God’s way is the best way. Always remember that Buddy.

You are such a wonderful, sweet son. Several times every day you tell me my favorite words - “I love you, Mom.” Just today, out of nowhere, you said “Mom, I really like your face.” I love when you do and say things like that! You still climb up into my lap most mornings for cuddle time (occasionally Grandma P. fills in as an awesome substitute). We still hold hands when we walk into preschool, and you always give me a bear hug before I leave. I still read you a bedtime story at night, and tuck you in bed, and turn your night light on. I know these days won’t last forever, and someday you'll drive yourself places and go to bed later than I do, but for now, I will cherish every second I have with you, and pray that we will always be close.

I can’t wait to watch you graduate, and fall in love, and become a father. But one thing I have learned in the past five years is that time really does fly. Sometimes I wish I could freeze time, and keep you exactly the way you are today. But since I can’t, I will choose to enjoy every day and every stage... knowing that both the good times and the bad times won’t last forever.

I love you Jackson David, and I always will - no matter what. I don’t know what your future holds, but I know who holds your future. God gave you to me and daddy, and we have given you back to Him. Dream big, keep your zest for life, and continue to bring smiles to everyone around you. Oh, and have a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Only God could love you more,
Mommy

Reward

2010-03-16T09:47:00.001-07:00

Last week, Jackson finished swimming class. Plus I got a great report from his teacher at conferences last week. Two good reasons for a trip to Chuck E. Cheese.

On Saturday we went there, bought a bunch of tokens, played a bunch of games, and had a bunch of fun!

Way to go Jackson. Your mommy is very proud of you!

Fun, friends, and frenzy!

2010-03-11T17:22:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, we went with five other families to Double JJ resort... oh, what fun we had! Sure, we had fun playing in the pool and going down all the water slides, but there was one thing (or 28) that made the weekend such a success.

THE PEOPLE!

We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends - people we can laugh with, cry with, and grow with. And considering there were 16 kids hanging out in one hotel suite for awhile, the chaos actually remained under control.

Here's to going again next year! Anyone else want to come along? :)

Little Me

2010-03-06T05:02:00.000-08:00

Our sweet Haley is becoming quite the "Little Mama." She "parents" her little people - all individually named, of course - in almost the same way I parent her. She praises her babies for going potty using the same words I said to her when she was potty-training. She sings them the same bedtime songs, says the same prayers before they eat, and even uses the same nicknames that I use on her. It's so cute!

But it also gives me a little extra incentive to be the best mom I can be.... she's watching!

The greatest sound on earth

2010-02-27T10:20:00.000-08:00

No one can make Haley laugh like Jackson can... although daddy is a close second! Who knew that the words "Chloe, come back here!" could be so funny?

Let the countdown begin...

2010-02-24T17:02:00.000-08:00

In less than a month, I am going to be an aunt. I am SO EXCITED! I get another little girl to love and spoil, and I don't even have to shed the baby weight or do midnight feedings when she gets here. Man, I'm loving this!

Though there have been a few complications along the way, it looks like Peanut is going to be born healthy... and a little on the small size. That's OK... us Pohlers are not known for being large, so she will fit right in. Sara will be induced on March 23 (Jackson's 5th birthday!), if Peanut doesn't make her big debut before then. The doctors don't want my sister's pregnancy to go beyond 39 weeks, due to low amniotic fluid levels. Jackson has his heart set on sharing a birthday with his sweet little cousin.

If you have a minute, would you please send up a prayer for a smooth delivery and a healthy baby girl? Thanks!

I'll post pictures as soon as Peanut arrives.... this is what she looks like these days! :)

Ladies Man

2010-02-20T14:42:00.000-08:00

Someone has a crush on Jackson!

This week, another preschool mom stopped me in the parking lot and told me that her daughter is "obsessed with Jackson." She thinks he is so funny, and definitely the cutest boy in class (the girl has great taste!). She was so excited to get a Valentine from him. How cute is that?

I can't believe this is starting so soon! I'm going to try and get many more years of me being the leading lady in Jackson's life!

Oops!

2010-02-11T17:48:00.000-08:00

Today, Haley and I were looking through a board book filled with Bible stories. She pointed at the book and said "That's Jesus." I praised her, and then pointed to her chest and told her that Jesus lives inside her heart (this is something we've been talking to Jackson a lot about lately.)

Haley gave a look of pure terror, burst into tears, lifted up her shirt, grabbed her tummy and screamed "GET HIM OUT!"

I think next time I better make sure my theology lesson is a bit more age appropriate!

Happy Valentine's Day (a little early)

2010-02-09T09:38:00.000-08:00

This morning I went to a Valentine's Party at Jackson's preschool. So fun! I just eat that kind of thing right up... along with all the snacks that were there.

Happy Valentine's Day! Wishing you a day of love and laughter!

Jackson with his teacher...

Me and my little Valentine...
This is the bag we made for our valentines...

Big Brother

2010-02-06T17:08:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of Jackson. He has become a wonderful, protective, caring big brother, and that fills my heart with joy. Every time we pick up Jackson from preschool, he runs up to Haley with a big bear hug. It really is precious. Jackson still calls Haley his baby sister, and I've heard him a few times telling her that he is the best friend she is ever going to have.

It goes both ways too. Today, Jackson was sad about something, and Haley - in her sweet little voice - says "It's OK Jackson, don't be sad." Love it!

I'm closing this post with a short video, but it comes with a disclaimer. There's nothing too special about this footage. It's more for me than you. Someday, when Jackson and Haley have been fighting all day, this video will remind me that there was a time when they loved playing together! :)

Here she is...

2010-01-31T17:05:00.000-08:00

... our beautiful two-year-old! We are sending up prayers that Haley is entering the terrific twos, not the terrible twos. My guess is that we will get some of both!

A promise kept....

2010-01-30T16:57:00.000-08:00

Jackson got a frog Webkinz for Christmas. Do you know what I'm talking about? Basically, you play computer games to earn "money" to feed, house, and buy things for your little online friend. Jackson has really taken to this whole Webkinz world!

Anyway, Jackson has been wanting to save up enough money to buy Jacksonfroggy (the name of his red-footed tree frog) a backyard. A back yard costs $1,000... yikes. This week I told him that someday he and I would sit down and play the online games until we had enough money to make the beloved purchase. Well, my little guy wanted to cash in on that promise today.

No problem, right? I thought we would play the Webkinz version of Tetris and a few other games for an hour and we would have the cash. I thought wrong!

Let's just say it's a good thing we didn't have a whole lot going on today. Through the course of the afternoon we played A LOT of online games, and I mastered this berry-throwing game in the process. Plus I was in awe of my smart little four-year-old. He is a little whiz kid (in my own biased opinion of course)! We played, and we played, and we played some more. Every time that I hinted to Jackson that maybe we should stop and play again tomorrow, he reminded me that I promised that we would play until we could buy a back yard. He kept saying things like "don't give up" and "keep trying Mom." How could I say no to that, even though my back was sore and my right hand was numb?

There is a happy ending to this story. We ended up with $1,017 and Jacksonfroggy is currently hopping around in his new backyard in the land of cyberspace. There's also a moral to this story... be careful what you promise your kids. They won't let you renege. Oh, and one more thing. It takes a very long time to earn $1,000 in the Webkinz World. Boy do I wish someone would have told me that!

Oh, wait. This really is the last thing.... thanks Dave for keeping Haley entertained while Jackson and I spent all afternoon in front of the computer!

Wise Words

2010-01-27T16:10:00.001-08:00

This poem was read at my sister's baby shower last night. I love it, and thought you would too. Enjoy!

I Corinthians 13 for Mothers (by Jim Fowler)

If I live in a house of spotless beauty with everything in its place,
but have not love,
I am a housekeeper, not a homemaker.
If I have time for waxing, polishing, and decorative achievements,
but have not love,
my children learn cleanliness, not godliness.
If I scream at my children for every infraction,
and fault them for every mess they make,
but have not love,
my children become people-pleasers, not obedient children.
Love leaves the dust in search of a child’s laugh.
Love smiles at the tiny fingerprints on a newly cleaned window.
Love wipes away the tears before it wipes up the spilled milk.
Love picks up the child before it picks up the toys.
Love accepts the fact that I am the ever-present “mommy,”
the taxi-driver to every childhood event,
the counsellor when my children fail or are hurt.
Love crawls with the baby, walks with the toddler, and runs with the child,
then stands aside to let the youth walk into adulthood.
Before I became a mother I took glory in my house of perfection.
Now I glory in God’s perfection of my child.
All the projections I had for my house and my children
have faded away into insignificance,
And what remain are the memories of my kids.
Now there abides in my home scratches on most of the furniture,
dishes with missing place settings,
and bedroom walls full of stickers, posters and markings,
But the greatest of all is the Love
that permeates my relationships with my children.

Happy Birthday Haley!

2010-01-23T09:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl! Words can't describe the love we have for you. Two years ago today, God blessed us with the most wonderful, life-changing gift... you! You have brought so much joy to our family, and we love you so much Haley Brooke!

There are so many things I could write about - your beauty, your brains, your heart of gold, your sweet spirit - but the thing that is on my heart today is your gift of song. You absolutely love to sing, and you have the voice of a little angel. As I type this, I can hear you singing yourself to sleep. Your choice of song: Angels We Have Heard on High. You don't care that Christmas is over. You sing in the car, in your crib, in the shopping cart. Your songs bring smiles to those around you, but they also bring smiles to the heart and face of your Savior.

Keep singing, Dear One. Don't forget that your Heavenly Father loves to hear the praises from you, his precious child. Whether your singing future leads you to stages in front of large crowds, or only to your shower... remember that the gift of song is from God, and He is your true Audience of One.

So as you blow out your candles and make a wish, your mommy has a few wishes for you too. I pray that as you grow physically, you also grow in the knowledge and love of God, always remembering that His ways are the best ways. Always remember that daddy and me love you - not because of what you do - but because of who (and whose) you are. God made you special Haley; you are a masterpiece, a true one-of-a-kind. He has big plans for you, and I can't wait to see what they are! But for now, I will hold you, and cuddle you, and read to you, and enjoy you, my sweet, talkative, adorable, Super-Why-loving two-year-old.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Pretty Sweet!

2010-01-19T09:36:00.000-08:00

Remember this cake that Dave's mom made for Haley's birthday last year? Well, she's done it again! Look what she came up with for birthday number two.

Every time we celebrate Jackson or Haley's birthday, she always asks me if I mind if she makes the cake. Mind? Nope! I don't mind a bit! My idea of decorating a cake is putting sprinkles on top!

Guess who?

2010-01-17T17:03:00.000-08:00

Guess who is turning two this week? Yep... it's Haley Brooke! Excitement is in the air. Haley is ready to party! The celebrations started today. More pictures to come, but tonight I'll just share some of our favorite (almost) two-year-old.

Prediction

2010-01-15T03:41:00.000-08:00

My guess is that if Dave had been a girl, he (she) would have had really awesome hair. Why? Because Haley sure didn't get her long, lovely locks from her Mommy! =)

Changes

2010-01-12T16:48:00.000-08:00

I started my job this week, and so far, so good! The people there are so sweet, and I really enjoy the work. I even have an office this time around. I share it with the Webmaster, and it overlooks a forest that has been known to house a lot of wildlife. Pretty cool.

But boy do I miss my kids while I'm gone. I worked all day yesterday and all day today. On the way home tonight I wanted to hug my kids so bad it brought tears to my eyes. I usually look forward to the kid's bedtime (terrible, I know), but not tonight. Tonight I was glad when our final game of PIG (played with our indoor basketball hoop) went extra long. And usually Dave tucks in Jackson, but not tonight. I wasn't going to give up that blessing tonight.

One thing is for sure, I miss my kids way more than they miss me. In fact, tonight when I walked in the door, Jackson was almost crying because he was worried that he wasn't going to get to finish his game with my mom. Not the welcome I was hoping for, but I'm so glad that the kids are having a blast enjoying all their extra time with grandma.

This job is going to bring many blessings into our life, but one of the greatest is that it is teaching me to cherish my kids even more than I have been. I'm sure glad I don't have to work tomorrow! We get to go to play group in the morning... yeah! Hmmm... what fun thing can I cook up for the afternoon?

Need a bed time story?

2010-01-09T14:02:00.000-08:00

Pull up a chair, Haley's got a great book to share! Enjoy! As you can imagine, I have this book memorized too... we've read it hundreds of times since Jackson got it as a baby.

(Sorry for the poor quality.)

Cold Cuties!

2010-01-05T09:48:00.001-08:00

Times, they are a changin'!

2010-01-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

Life is soon to change in the Zuidema household.

I got a phone call several weeks ago from the Assistant Director of Kent District Library, a place where I worked from 2002-2006. It turns out that my old job as Communications Assistant - a job that I really loved - was recently made part-time, 24 hours a week. She wanted to let me know, in case I wanted to apply.

Long story short - I applied, I interviewed, I got the job, I start next Monday. Whew!

I'm excited, I'm nervous, and I feel like this was an unexpected gift from God. My mom and Dave's mom will be watching the kids while I work. It's so nice to know that Jackson and Haley will be cared for by people who love them like I do. Grandma's make the best babysitters... at least in our case.

As my days as a full-time stay-at-home mom come to an end, my hope is that though my time with the kids will be less frequent, that it will also be more cherished. Less quantity, more quality. I loved having these last few years at home full-time with the kids, and I honestly wasn't really looking to change things. But I believe that God opened this door, and He is encouraging me to walk through it. So I will.

Tonight I send out a big BRAVO to all the stay-at-home moms, all the working moms, and those that do some of both. Each choice comes with sacrifice, rewards, and lots of hard work. Some of the best moms I know work, and some of them don't, but they all adore their kids and do what is best for their family. Kudos to you!

Resolution

2009-12-31T09:41:00.000-08:00

The other day I sent Jackson to get dressed and he came back with a twinkle in his eye and a smirk on his face looking like this - with his pants on his head, and his shirt on his legs.

I had a flash of irritation since we were running late, but then I found this so amusing. I started laughing and couldn't stop. Jackson and I cracked up for a few minutes and then I took his picture. Man it felt good to laugh like that!

Later that day, Jackson thanked me for laughing with him. "Thanks for not being mad about that mommy," he said. "Don't worry, I won't do that every day." (Well, that's a relief.)

And this story led me to a New Year's resolution... don't sweat the small stuff. This year, I am going to choose to laugh more, and worry less.

If my house is a mess when people stop by, oh well. People don't love me because I have a neat house anyway.

If Jackson chooses to wear clothes that don't really match, who cares?

If I get stuck in a traffic jam, it gives me more time to sing in the car. (This one is going to be easier said than done.)

It's time to look on the bright side, enjoy every day, and look forward to blessing-filled 2010! Happy New Year!

Baby to Big Girl!

2009-12-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of Haley last Christmas...

Here is a picture of her this Christmas....

Wow! What a difference a year can make! I wonder what she will look like next year?

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T19:29:00.000-08:00

I hope your family had as wonderful a Christmas as ours did!

The presents were great, the food was awesome (my hubby made a delicious Christmas Eve meal), and the decorations were beautiful, but the best part about our Christmas was celebrating God's gift of love with those we love most!

Joy to the World!

My Dream House

2009-12-23T16:43:00.000-08:00

Jackson had a great time constructing my dream house with Grandma. Yummy!

Big Boy

2009-12-22T09:38:00.000-08:00

This morning, when Haley was having a fit, Jackson got down to her level, looked her in the eye, and very calmly said "Haley, it never helps to have a fit. In fact, mommy doesn't give you what you want when you scream for it." And guess what? She stopped crying.

It hit me again... I have a big boy.

It hit me a couple of weeks ago too. I told Jackson that it was so cool that he got to be Jesus' daddy Joseph in the Christmas program at school. He reminded me that Joseph was Jesus' earthly daddy, and God is his Heavenly Father.

I'm a little sad that my little guy is growing up. He is going to be 5 in March... CRAZY! Soon he will be riding the bus, learning to read, spending a good chunk of his day away from me. And recently, the zipper on his very last pair of footed PJs broke, so those days are over too.

The good news is, Jackson still has a lot of "littleness" left inside him. He still sleeps with a night light. He still plays with Little People in the shower. He still climbs in my lap for Cuddle Time every morning. I recently asked him what we were going to do when he was too big to climb in my lap. "That's easy," he said. "That's when I'll start holding you." Melt. My. Heart.

When the world looks at my beautiful boy, they only see this.

But when I and everyone else who has loved Jackson his whole life look at him, we still see a little of this.

And yes, it took a lot of work to get Jackson's hair to lay down back in the day. Eventually I quit trying.

Hat's off to Haley!

2009-12-20T16:29:00.000-08:00

I love Haley's new hat! Do you?

If so, visit the Facebook page for Jan's Unique Creations. I have gotten several things from Jan, and I love them all. She makes beautiful handmade things for little ones. Check it out!

And if you decide to invite Jan to your house for a Home Show with her items, make sure to invite me. I'm sure I can find something with Haley's name (or my new niece's) written all over it!

We have a winner!

2009-12-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

Last night we had dinner at church, along with hundreds of other people. As a special Christmas blessing, the Food Ministries Team gave away some prizes. There were six chairs in the huge gym with numbers underneath them... if you were on one of those chairs, you were a winner!

I bent down to look under my chair... no number. As an afterthought, I decided I better check under Jackson’s chair. It’s a good thing I did! There was a blue piece of tape on the bottom of his chair with the #1 written on it.

Jackson was beyond thrilled! He was ecstatic, elated, overjoyed! He threw his hands up in the air, and ran to the front to collect his prize - a big box of Christmas goodies. You would have thought he had won all of Toys R Us! Everyone there got a huge kick out of his reaction.

A little boy at the table next to us was crying because he didn’t win. Jackson made sure to share a goodie with him to make him feel better.

This morning when Jackson got up, the first thing he said to me was “I still can’t believe I picked the right chair.” =)

Today I am thanking God for those happy moments that make life so much sweeter!

It's show time!

2009-12-15T17:41:00.000-08:00

Jackson has had a busy couple of days. On Sunday, he was a shepherd in the children's program at both morning services at church. And tonight, he played Joseph at his preschool Christmas program. And guess what? I don't have any crazy, funny, or embarrassing stories to write about... and I am thrilled about that. Because even though you might find it funny if Jackson threw hay, smelled baby Jesus' diaper, or hit one of the wise men, I - as his mommy - most certainly would not. It's funny how you can think something is so cute, as long as it's not your child that is doing it. I am proud to say Jackson did great. Phew!

I may not have stories to share, but I do have some cute photos. Enjoy these shots of our little performer.

And one picture of Jackson's biggest fan. She sat through his performance on Sunday and loved every second of it!

It's the thought that counts!

2009-12-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Dave took Jackson to the dollar store to pick out his presents for all his grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Dave didn't offer any guidance; he just let Jackson make his selections. We got a good laugh about some of his choices, but they all made perfect sense to Jackson. He knows exactly who is getting what, and why. I have a feeling that the gifts from Jackson will end up being the most treasured, since they were so carefully chosen with love!

I don't want to spoil any of the surprises, but one lucky family member will walk away with this...

Keep your fingers crossed!

Think Pink!

2009-12-12T09:47:00.000-08:00

That’s right, Sara and Chris are expecting a baby girl this spring, and we couldn’t be happier!

I can’t wait to have a little niece and love her like she is one of my own. I can spoil her, kiss her, hug her.... and I don’t even have to discipline her, wake up with her in the night, or change her “blow-out” diapers. What could be better?

I can’t wait to watch Sara be an amazing mother, and I am so excited to watch Chris - a real “man’s man” - fall madly in love with his baby girl. They make pink fishing poles right?

My kids will finally have a cousin! I hope they are always very close, and love each other (and probably fight with each other) like siblings. It will be fun to see all of my favorite Haley outfits on our precious niece. I don’t thing Sara and Chris will have to buy any clothes if they don’t want to.

And one little bonus - Dave had to admit he was wrong (gasp!). He was convinced Sara and Chris were having a baby boy.

We are counting down the weeks, planning for a baby shower, and praising God for this precious blessing!

IT“S A GIRL!

Satisfying my Sweet Tooth

2009-12-11T19:03:00.000-08:00

Recently my husband ordered a gift for his brother on Amazon. The box came the other day, and hiding inside was a sweet surprise for me too.

And you wonder why I'm addicted to candy. I live with an enabler. I love him though!

I wonder if these will last until Christmas?

Snow Day!

2009-12-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

The weather outside is frightful, but we have enjoyed a delightful morning in the Zuidema home. This morning Jackson and I made some more of our favorite holiday treats - chocolate covered pretzels. This batch is for some people at church - children's choir director, Promiseland teachers, nursery coordinators.... you get the idea. I dip the pretzels in the chocolate and Jackson does the sprinkles.

Jackson seemed to dump the sprinkles on certain pretzels, and when I questioned him about it, he informed me that those pretzels needed a little more love. Can't argue with that!

(Oh, and I know it looks like the pretzels are directly on my counter, but I did use wax paper!)

Jackson and I also enjoyed a few rounds of RACKO. Jackson is a Racko whiz... he almost always wins. I bought this game at a garage sale for 50 cents. It was money well spent.

So what was Haley doing while all this was going on? Lining up her blocks over and over of course!

Now it is nap/quiet time. I have some cleaning to do. Later this afternoon I think I'll put a movie in for the kids, and plop down on the couch with my book. And I won't feel guilty about it. Moms need snow days too!

So you think you can dance?

2009-12-07T17:12:00.000-08:00

Our kiddos are dancing their way into the Christmas spirit!

Fa La La La La

2009-12-06T13:24:00.001-08:00

Deck the Halls with boughs of holly....

fa la la la la la la la la!
Tis the season to be jolly....
fa la la la la la la la la!

Hmmm...

2009-12-03T16:05:00.000-08:00

Haley is sweet, lovable, precious... and a little bit quirky. She can be very particular about certain things. Here's one example. Haley has an alphabet puzzle; each letter is a different piece. She does this puzzle all the time, but she ALWAYS leaves out the G and the U. It never fails. Sometimes I sneak those letters back on the board, but as soon as Haley sees it, she very quickly removes those pieces. Weird, huh?

Now she has a new obsession. For the past two days, she has been carrying around a deck of cards everywhere she goes in the house. She takes them to the table, to the potty, to the bedroom (but not to the crib, much to her dismay). And she hasn't been happy when I've told her that she has to leave the cards at home when we leave the house. Sometimes she will get distracted and leave the cards somewhere, but it's never long before she goes on the hunt looking for them.

It's not easy for little hands to hold on to all those cards.

I hope this "quirk" is short lived.

I think Haley comes by her quirky nature honestly. After all, her mom cringes at the thought of touching a cotton ball. I know it's weird, but there is just something awful about the texture of those little things. I get chills just thinking about it.

I think me calling Haley quirky is like the pot calling the kettle black! I guess we all have a few of those "things that make you go Hmmm."