We're not crazy! We're enthusiastic!

This week, the kids and I have been working on some welcome banners for Laurens arrival on Monday.  Not only have we had a lot of fun with paint, crayons, markers, etc but I have had a BLAST teaching them about enthusiasm.

I think most people, especially my husband, are generally shocked by the emphasis that I put on making sure incoming guests recieve an enthusiastic welcoming, birthday's always have balloons and signs, and general tone of voice in conversation.  For some reason, these are things that God has put on my heart and I know are very important.

While I know my children will gain some of these qualities by my example, I also know the responsibility I have to teach them about enthusiasm.  I am currently reading TLC's The Duggars 2nd book.  In both of their books, they have had some incredible insights.  One of my favorites was this one:  

"We teach them [our children] to overcome shyness by constantly reminding them of another foundation of our faith: Jesus' instruction to treat others the way you would want to be treated (Matthew 7:12).  To us, it's not cute when our little ones turn away when someone speaks to them, or hide their faces in Mama's skirt, or stare back, wide-eyed and worldess; we believe that behavior is disrespectful of the other person.  In contrast, eye contact shows repect; it tells the other person, You're important; You're special. 

Turning away means the child fails to acknowledge the other person, and it also nurtures in the child a self-centered focus, something we want each one to learn to overcome as he or she matures."

This exerpt explains my thoughts pefectly!  It's about respect.  It's about showing other people that they are worth your time and energy to put forth a little bit of effort on their behalf.

This week, we have been practicing self-introductions on the phone.  They are so funny!  If you call the house any time soon, most likely I will have have of the kids pick up and you will hear, "Hi, I Paul" or "Hi, dis Cafrine".  Haha.  Baby steps. 

So, just know, that if you spend a birthday with us, you will probably have balloons, a sign, and cake.  If you come to visit we will either be waiting in the airport, in the driveway, and possibly even holding signs.  If you call, we will answer with "umph" so you know that we are excited to hear from you.  And if you speak to us, we will be sure to look you in the eye and answer you.  We want you to know that you are important to us and that we appreciate the relationship that we have.   

THE BECKERS ARE COMING!

About four years ago, I met one of the coolest and most fun girls I have ever met.  She and I met in California as we waited for our men to arrive home from a 6 month deployment.  Her name is Lauren Becker. 

Just a little bit about Lauren.  Lauren is one of the most fashionable, decorating savvy, do it her own way people I know!  We are complete opposites in that manner.  I choose simple, basic, color matching decor and clothes, and she and her family and home are always STYLIN'! 

Example : Our 25 Week Pregnant Pictures

            Simple                                                                            Stylin'

Okay, now before anybody says anything about my thinking she's better or anything like that, know that I am completely confident in my own style.  While that might come easily to Lauren, we'll just say that it doesn't for me and leave it at that!

Get it? 

While we couldn't be on any farther points when it comes to style, we are on the same page on the things that count.  We both believe in a Christ-centered home, where our husbands are the head while we are the heart.  We believe in raising children to be productive adults who are not reliant upon others for their own well-being and happiness.  We believe in living debt free and buying what you can afford with cash.  We believe that we were put on this earth for a purpose and we strive to fulfill the will that God has for us!  But most importantly, we believe in the power of music and HAVING FUN! 

Lauren has taught me one of my most life lessons.  I have always known that I am a very blunt speaker.  I tell things like I see them.  Over the years, I have worked very hard to learn to curb my tongue and speak gently but unfortunately, I still have times when I am quite frank and sharp.  In these moments, I will generally preface what I am about to say with "this might come out wrong" to which she would always reply, "Jeanne, don't worry, I know your heart".  Phew, what a relief!  Finally, someone who knew me well enough to know my intent.  She has taught me to give people the benefit of the doubt and look to their heart before their words. 

So, back to our story.  In short, we became super good buds.  We moved to Italy and they moved to Hawaii.  Could we be any farther apart?  Now, 3.5 years later, three kids for me, one and a half (she's pregnant) for her, and we will finally get to see each other again on Monday! 

She and her son, Roman, are home visiting her parents for 10 days.  When she called and asked if they could come stay a night or two with us, I just about cried!  She is taking 1/5 of her days at home to drive three hours (with a one year old in tow) to come see us!  How cool is that!?!?!

So, needless to say, in true Jeanne style, preparations are being made and their will be a proper welcoming for them!  I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!

For Daddy: The Shakey Song!

Paul and Catherine came up with a song today that they are VERY proud of!  I taped the first performace sideways so there are two. 

And now for their duet!

We're Getting There

We're so excited to be on to the second row of months!  August 15th marks halfway.  We're getting closer!

Oh the Places She Will Go...

Sheepdogs, Really?

Unless you know my husband well, you may think that title of this blog is a little odd.  A couple of years ago, Paul shared an article with me that explained our society quite well.  If you haven't read it Click Here.  In short, it explains that our society is split into three categories: Sheepdogs, Sheep, and Wolves.  This is something that we take very seriously. 

Living in the world that we do, we want to teach our children to have the heart of a warrior but a deep love for their fellow citizens, similar to that of St. Michael the Archangel.  I don't think it is a coincidence that Paul was born on St. Michael's feast day, September 29th. 

When we talk about being a sheepdog, this doesn't only apply to literally protecting our country.  It's an attitude, a mindset, a lifestyle.  It means that you will go through the tough stuff to get to the greater good.  When you are faced with a challenge, you won't back down because it is hard, rather you take it on, and fight for what is right.  This is applied to our country, our relationships, raising children, money, EVERYTHING. 

To Blog or Not Blog: That is the Question

Well, I have decided to finally start up a family blog.  More than anything, I wanted a place where I could let our family and friends see all of the fun things that we are doing here in Charlottesville and beyond.  Additionally, I wanted a place that I could essentially have a 'baby book' of sorts to look back on and watch my children grow.  Life moves so fast and despite my best efforts to remember those little memories...I forget.  So, here we go!

I will be making this a secure blog so as to protect my family from the world wide web.  I also need to make sure that nothing that is said here comes back to bite my husband in possible future political arenas.  With that said, please make sure that you are registered properly to view our blog.