Tender Thoughts

Savouring Time

2010-09-28T15:19:00.004-04:00

Thanks to a sweet friend I realized that I do have a blog (HAHA). It's been such a long time since I've written that I am not sure where to start except to just tell you what we're doing now.

For starters Bryant is now in Kindergarden. I am not sure I can write about it without crying. The first day Chris and I both took him to school. He walked right in and never looked back.....until one of his teachers said, "Bryant, you need to say good-bye to your mom." He came over and gave me a big hug. I went to let go and he hung on like he just needed a few more seconds. That was the moment I lost it. He was fine, but I think he sensed I was having a hard time. I kissed his little neck and scooted out as fast as possible. Thank God Chris was directly behind me and diverted Bryant's attention. I went to the hallway and cried like a baby. Friends of mine in the hallway joined me in my tears and some were even mad at me for making them cry. I guess they felt safe to cry since someone else had broken the ice.

He is doing great and loves that he is learning to read. The only thing he said he doesn't like is that he has to sit still. But I am sure that is true for all 5 year old boys. Right?

Lukas is in 3 year old pre-school 3 days a week. He wants to go everyday since brother is now going everyday. I am thankful for the days that I have alone with him. He and I sing lots of songs really loud in the car and go shopping together. He is definatley a better shopper than Bryant. He loves to go to the grocery store. His teachers say that they love that he gets soooooo excited about everything. He is a happy little man and is a momma's boy. Chris says I got just what I wanted. It is only fair that at least one of my children like me. He tells Chris that he can't kiss him because those are momma's kisses. I usually tell him to share, but sometimes I am probably a little selfish!!!

I am still staying at home and working about 8-10 days a month. I almost went back to work part-time, but after much prayer I didn't feel right about going back. Chris and I went on a trip to Australia and New Zeland in August. It was quite and I had time to think. Never knew I missed thinking soooo much. LOL But at the end of the trip I knew that God had provided the opportunity for me to be at home and that I would know when the right time was to go back. And now wasn't it. After the first month of school I am so glad that I am at home. I love to take and pick the boys up from school. I love to help Bryant do his homework, and I love that I can take care of the house and other things so that when Chris gets home at night and on the weekends we can just have fun being together.

Chris still travels a good bit I am use to it now and actually like the time to do my 'Little Projects" while he is away.

I will post some picture of the boys and our trip to Australia and New Zeland.

Its Quiet and I'm Thinkin'......

2008-09-13T19:40:00.005-04:00

Chris will be home in a few hours. He's been gone for 11 days to Italy, Paris, and Spain. Yea, I know I feel sorry for him too. He's been working hard....no really, he works hard. :)
I think I may have said to you before that when he goes on these long trips I put on my "Game face". Which basically just means that no matter what I won't fall apart until its all over. I've kept myself busy hoping that time would go be fast. Usually after about 5 days I am ready to go jump in a dark hole where its quiet and no one is saying, "Momma". It has to be one of the most loved and hated words in the world. Lukas likes to save it for a quiet moment in the car when he wants me to give him a smile. Sometimes I think it is the only word Bryant knows. Especially when he is wanting me to get him something or do something for him. I wish I could say that even after 11 days I am generally in a great mood, but the truth is that I am
S-P-E-N-T.

S- Short on Patience
P- Positively Pooped
E- Entirely too Pooped to care
N- Not so nice
T- Totally Thankful that I have a husband and don't usually do this job alone.

And to end it all the Gamecocks lost to Georgia.
So here's how my 11 days has been like a Gamecock Football Game.
I've had lots of time to prepare for the game. I've got my "Game face" on and we're off to a great start by scoring early in the game (going to Toys 'R Us with 2 kids and not feeling like I should've left them in the car). I feel strong and confident and then comes the dropped pass (something like a momentary loss of patience). Then I begin to think that I may never score again or recover from the frustration of dropping the pass. But then a new opportunity presents itself and I feel a moment of redemption may be possible. I try really hard and though part of my team is doing their job the other part is failing miserably (I have a teachable moment with one of the kids, you know, like the chance to teach them something really profound, and the other kids is swinging from the stair rail). This analogy could go on for a long time, but to end our misery this is how it all ends. After the game my "Game face" comes off and I will probably cry for a good 5 minutes just to relieve some frustration, but by Monday I will have forgiven myself and the Gamecocks for the missed passes (missed opportunities) , the penalties (opportunities gone wrong), and just plain out bad play calls (momentary loss of sanity). I will also give myself and the Gamecocks a little compassion because we played hard, no one got hurt, and just because sometimes when we blow it we are our own worst critics.
So here's to the never ending hope that tomorrow I will get it right and the Gamecocks will win more games than they've lost.
GO MOM and GO COCKS!!!!

Slow Me Down

2008-09-05T22:33:00.005-04:00

For some reason life has gotten away with me. I know its been six months since my last post, but it feels like only 2 months. :)
I thought I'd give you a quick run down of what has been going on here in the last few months:
1. Lukas turned 1 year old, (now he is almost 18 months old)
2. Bryant turned 3 years old
3. Lukas got tubes in his ears (After a year long fight with more ear
infections than I can count, we got tubes and I LOVE THEM.)
4. Bryant started 3 year old pre-school and loves it. He only goes 3 days
a week, but wants to go every morning.
I've been so busy it seems like I should have more to account for 6 months. But apparently I've just been too busy to know what's goin' on. HA HA!

I promise to write something more profound later, but I wanted to at least send out some updated pictures.
I love you all,
Tiff

Still Here; Now a year older!

2008-03-06T21:15:00.007-05:00

Today I am 32 years and 2 days old. On March 4th I became another year older and hopefully another year wiser. I still think its sad that at 32 I haven't figured out how to do it all right, HA HA. But, I heard a good lesson this year that has really stuck with me and I have decided it will be my theme for this year of my life. So here it is ....the condensed version.

We spend so much time trying to improve on our weaknesses that we never get to enjoy the areas of our lives where we are gifted. I do believe that there is a certain level of accountability that we must have in areas of our lives; like being able to balance our checkbook. But the truth is that may not be my gift. I do, with all that is within me, want to pursue excellence in my life no matter what I do. However, the truth is that I will NEVER probably be excellent at cooking or making money decisions, but I AM organized and love to finish an organization project. I do love to decorate and enjoy making my home look beautiful. I do take excellent care of my kids and love to help them succeed. And I hope that Chris would tell you I am a better wife everyday.

I have, in the past, focused so much on what I didn't like about myself or the one thing that I wasn't very good at and trying to make that one thing better or do that one thing perfectly that I forgot to enjoy what it is about myself that I do like and what it is that I do with excellence. Finding the time to do that is often few and far between, but this thirty second year of my life I am determined to find in myself the things I do well and do them more often.

Lukas will be 1 year old on Easter. He loves to snuggle with his mommy in the mornings. Which makes mommy very happy. His favorite thing to do is play outside with is big brother Bryant. Lukas loves when Bryant plays with him.Lukas will laugh and scream with excitement. Though most of the time Bryant just aggravates Lukas till he gets mad and cries :)

Bryant is into drawing and making up words. He makes up a word and then wants you to make one up too. Then he wants you to laugh very loud about how funny those new words are. From Bryant's early days I knew he was going to be my little lover. And with everyday that passes he confirms that notion. He loves to be with people and loves to wants to hug you at least once before you leave and most of the time a kiss comes with the hug.
So for now the Burns family is:

Very excited that Spring in on the way and we can play outside;
Preparing for a trip to Europe at the end of March....just me, Chris, Mark and Kathy (Mark works with Chris and Kathy is his wife)
Preparing for Lukas' first birthday party
Missing you all!!!!

Holidays Here and Gone

2008-01-01T21:18:00.000-05:00

I know its been awhile. I think around this time every year I get a little overwhelmed and the blog is the last on the list of things to do. And don't worry I won't bore you with the details. We spent Thanksgiving with my family and Christmas with Chris' family. Bryant had a great time opening all his presents and learning all about "Baby Jesus". He can tell you who's birthday is on Christmas, that Jesus' mommy is Mary and his daddy is Joseph. It was so much fun to share Christmas with him is year.

Lukas is the sweetest little man. Despite several ear infections, a runny nose , two new teeth, and a brother who loves to aggravate him, he loves to play all by himself and loves for Bryant to laugh. He is saying "dada and momma"; mostly dada......and yes he said dadda first.....that little stinker. He is pulling up all over the place and keeping me busy making sure he doesn't get into anything. I love this age when they are exploring everything they can get their hands on and hoping that it will taste good too!!! HA HA.

I hope that you all had a great Christmas and enjoy your lives in 2008!

Nothing New; Just Missing You

2007-11-12T20:43:00.000-05:00

On November 5th Chris left for a trip to Germany and Dubai. He will finally be home tomorrow afternoon around 4 or 5 o'clock. Everyday Bryant asks to see Daddy and most days wakes up from his nap saying,"Daddy where are you?" We do get to talk to him everyday and Bryant likes to tell him all about his day. It always seems to be tough on Bryant when Chris leaves, he gets a little, lets say, rowdy. He gets in trouble more than usually and gets more aggressive then normal. And all that rowdiness makes it hard on me. I never realized how hard it is to say "No, don't do that" about 100 times a day. I get aggravated, tired, sad, and down right mad at least 1 time a day when having to repeat the same quote so often. It would be so much easier to attach a tape player to his belt and have it say the same thing at least every 15 minutes. :)

Then there are the moments you wouldn't mind repeating. Like tonight, Bryant was watching TV while I was up in Lukas' room feeding him and putting him to bed. Bryant yells up stairs, "Hey Mommy, I wuv you ever, ever ok." For no reason he decided to tell me he loves me forever and ever. I teared up and said, "Mommy loves you too, baby!" Then he came to the bottom of the stairs and said, "Hey Mommy", I said, "What baby?"

Bryant said, "Just checkin on you."

I often call his name when I can't see him just to hear his voice and know that he is ok. He decided to do the same for me. What a sweet boy.

I wanted to thank Papa and Mimi Burns for taking us in for a few days while Chris was out of town. They are always so wonderful to us and I am so thankful to have the GREATEST IN LAWS in the world. In the picture above Bryant and Papa had been shrimping. Bryant loved it. Then he enjoyed the fruits of his labor and he and I ate all the shrimp.

For all of you who have asked about and prayed for my arthritis....Thanks! I am feeling really well.

Just a Little POOH

2007-11-01T19:08:00.000-04:00

Winnie-the-Pooh that is.

It was a great Halloween. Bryant had the choice to be either a cowboy or Winnie-the-Pooh. He was the cutest Pooh. Bryant and Lukas' cousins: Lindsey, Dillon, and Whit came over for the evening and traveled the neighborhood with us. We put Whit and Bryant in the wagon and carted them through the whole neighborhood. Lukas stayed awake until we walked into the door of the house and he fell asleep on his Aunt Lisa's shoulder. He was a cute little bear. He wore the same outfit that Bryant wore his first Halloween.

The other pictures I took earlier in the afternoon on Halloween. The boys and I just went outside and I snapped about 50 pictures of them playing in the leaves and Lukas eating dirt. It was a GREAT DAY!

Over the past few weeks so much has happened to me. I was thinking that I should save that for another post, but since I'm here I'll tell you all about it......at least a condensed version.

A few weeks ago I developed what I thought was a virus. I never really felt bad except for 1 day, but I had it for 7 days. At the end of the 7 days I began to have joint swelling at various joints throughout my body. I attributed it to swinging on a rope swing at a party for Chris' work, but as the symptoms persisted and became worse I saw a Dr. that I used to work for. He diagnosed me with "Reactive arthritis". I've been in the hospital system for about 10 years now and have never heard of this. Basically, my body had an inflammatory response the the BACTERIA I had in my stomach. It was not a virus at all. The bacteria caused an inflammatory response in my gut and my joints responded in kind. Let's just say I have a whole new respect for those who suffer with arthritis. The hardest hit have been my ankles and my knees though this has traveled almost every joint in my body except my right shoulder and my hips. The chance still exists that this could go anywhere even my back, my eyes and my kidneys as this could last anywhere from 3 months to 12 months. I have taken a round of steroids which has helped ease the pain. Night-time is the hardest as well as the mornings.

All that said.......there is nothing like a little health problem to remind you that life is precious. Even in the midst of my little arthritis issue parents have lost children, people have found out they've had cancer, had a kidney stone, etc. For a few days I would say I felt depressed at the prospect that his could last for such a long time. But, after some time to refocus my vision, I realized what I've always known; that the Lord knows exactly what he's doing. Don't get me wrong, don't think for one minute that I didn't ask the Lord to heal me, fix me, HEAR me.......but what I really need is for Him to SUSTAIN me. Our pastor preached a sermon once on "BUT IF NOT". I doubt I'll ever forget it. Not because it was something incredibly profound, but because it accurately describes what we do when we profess our faith in Jesus. Let me see if I can explain.......I believe that the Lord CAN heal me, BUT IF he does NOT, I will still believe he loves me and is in control. I know the Lord can protect my children, BUT IF he does NOT, I will still believe he knows what is best for them and for me. It is in the "BUT IF NOTS" that we find out what our faith is made of. We will either get mad at God or choose to trust him.....OR maybe you do both. You get mad even though you still trust him. So if arthritis is my challenge today and tomorrow or for 12 months then that is 12 months that I am reminded constantly that my life is only sustained by grace. I could loose it tomorrow. I will believe everyday that the Lord can heal me, BUT IF NOT..............he saved my life and I'll deal with the arthritis.

Lukas 6 months old

2007-09-25T21:45:00.001-04:00

Lukas turned 6 months old on the 23rd and it seemed to sneak up on me. I had been telling everyone that at 6 months old I was going to be done breast feeding Lukas. Well it seems he caught wind of my evil plan and decided he was not going to take a bottle. So, for the foreseeable future I will continue to be a milk factory.

UP side: Breastfeeding is convenient and cheap

DOWN side: I really want my body back. If you count pregnancy my body has not been my own for 15 months. Wow I hate that I even counted.....I just got a little more depressed :)

Lukas is rolling all over the place and chewing on anything that comes within his reach. My favorite thing he does now is shake his head back and forth. (As if he is saying no, no, no). He giggles and smiles at everybody, but there is a catch: I have to be within eyesight. I am afraid he's a momma's boy. On the past 3 Sunday's that I have been to church he has only made it in the nursery about 20 minutes before I have been summoned for a screaming child. I also tried to take him to a Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) outing and he didn't do any better there.

So he won't take a bottle and he doesn't like me to leave his sight that equals .......little to no alone time for mommie. Oh well, guess this is what I get for saying that Lukas will be a momma's boy since Bryant is such a daddy's boy.

Bryant is doing really well at preschool. In fact he stood in the doorway on Monday and held Miss Angela's hand instead of coming to me. He was having too much fun dancing and sing "Romp Ump a Chomp". ( A song from Dorthy the Dinosaur on the Wiggles show). He is learning his manners really well. I love to hear him say "Tanks Mommie" for even the smallest of task ....like helping him put on his shoes. He is also pottie training which is such an adventure. In the last 4 days I have probably only had to change 1 poo poo diaper. He hasn't quite figured out how to decided when he needs to pee pee. But, I won't complain. I'd rather change one of his peepee diapers than a poo poo anyday. I am sure the pee pee thing will come and I've decided that I will not stress about it. He is doing fine figuring things out on his own.

For all you Wonderful Moms

2007-09-21T09:30:00.000-04:00

My good friend Merissa sent me this story and I liked it so much I decided to publish it on my blog...why? Because I couldn't have said it better myself.

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 hair 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: No one can say who built the great Cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. 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 ofmy 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 seefinished, to work on something that their name will never be on. Thewriter 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 also at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Great Job, MOM

Nerves of Steal

2007-09-12T20:45:00.000-04:00

The past two days have been really rough for me. ( I'll get into why in a minute). But yesterday I was cooking some pork chops on the grill and Bryant sang me a song for the first time. It brought me to tears.

"Amazing grace how sweet the sound

that saved a wretch like me.

I once was crying but now I'm found

Was blind but now I see"

Yea I know he changed the word lost to crying, but I couldn't believe my ears. I had the back door opened and he laid right in the door way on his side and sang it as I watched from behind. I tried really hard to not let him know I was listening afraid that he would stop. But I cried as he sang such sweet words. At night, without fail, Bryant wants two songs sang to him: Jesus loves me and Amazing Grace.....he says "sing amazing" and "sing Jesus". I have not heard him sing

Jesus loves me, but I can't wait to hear his rendition of how much Jesus loves him.

Ok, now on to the reason its been a hard week. Two weeks ago on Thursday I had to take Lukas to the Dr. and he was diagnosed with a double ear infection. Dr. Blake started him on Amoxicillin. On about day 7 of antibiotics Lukas began waking up at night screaming in pain. I tried Tylenol and Motrin thinking it my be his teeth, nither of which worked. After two nights of this I called the Dr. and he decided to call in a different (stronger) antibiotic. I was told that if he is not better in 24 to 48 hours to bring him in. After 48 hours and still no improvement I took him in to find that his little ears were still infected. (Poor baby) So on that day I spent 2 hours in the Dr.'s office with a sick 5 month old and a wiggley 2 year old. Talk about torture. I would rather spend 2 hours with a grizzly bear than at the Dr.'s office where I cringe everytime Bryant touches anything and parents allow their sick kids to come over to Lukas' carrier and peak in. I was ready to take a strong sedative by the time I left that place. Anyway, Lukas had to get a shot of antibiotics and a shot of steroids. Then to top it all off I had to go back the next day and do it again. Luckily I didn't have to go back today (Wednesday), but don't worry, as if I had not been to the Dr.'s office enough, I have to go back to on Thursday so that they can check him again.

I wish someone would write a book about developing "Nerves of Steal". Who needs "Buns of Steal"?

The First of Many First

2007-08-28T19:30:00.000-04:00

Timid shoulders holding their shiny new backpack,

Quivering bottom lip makes you want to bring them back

Courageous little boy or brave little miss

You feel your heartstrings pull as you give them a big kiss

And as the teacher guides them they look to you

with tearful eyes

Reminding you it's the first of many firsts

and bittersweet goodbyes

-Laura Taylor Mark

Bryant's first day was a good day...in lots of ways. He was a little afraid and and didn't want to let me go.....nor did I really want to let him go... but I did. He didn't cry...but I did. I did wait until I was walking out to the car though. After I got over this initial sadness of it all I drove directly to the grocery store and bought groceries, just like I said I would do. It was great to have a buggy for LOTS of groceries and and not for 2 kids and a LITTLE groceries. Then I went home and let Lukas nap and then he and I had some alone time, which we never get. I think he liked it as much as I did.

Wednesday and Friday I did not cry. Bryant was still a little apprehensive, but went to Mrs. Angela (the teachers aid) very easily. Both days when I went to pick him up he loved it so much he wanted to stay. His exact words were "Play Momma, Play". Which means he wants to stay and play. I forgot to mention that on Monday when I picked him up I told him we were going to Chic-fil-a to celebrate his first day of school and with great enthusiasm he said, "Celebbbbate...Let's do it". IT WAS A GOOD DAY!!!!

Cross-Centered Life

2007-08-17T14:25:00.000-04:00

I have finished the book I have been reading. It was one of the better books I've read.
It is called The Cross Centered Life.
It was not that there was some new revelation that it brought me to. It was just that it reminded me about the cross. I guess that sometimes...well a lot of the time we forget about it. We tend to focus more on other things...like LIFE....which seems to overwhelm most of us 80% of the time. I know what happened on the cross....it was suppose to be my cross. I know why he did it....but I can't believe he did it for me. Sometimes I get so caught up in life and even caught up in good things like reading the Bible, learning about God, but I forget the cross. The truth is that everything about who I am goes back to the cross and what became of my savior there. He saved my soul from eternal death all becaused he loves me better than I could ever deserve to loved. He spent 3 hours in hell so that I wouldn't have to spend eternity there. So what does the cross mean for me now you ask?.......Well, because I know the end of the story for me is heaven, nothing, no NOTHING will ever overcome me.... no sorrow, no want, no need, no disease, no dissappointment, no loss, and no hardship. My body may suffer from these things, but if my body gives way to any of these things my soul is placed in the hands that bare scars that should have been mine. It is hard to see Christ on the cross.... but that cross, how beautiful.....how amazing .......that I can hold tight in the hard times, I can hold tight when life seems right, I can be joyful till my last breath. TODAY and EVERYDAY it is my JOY to serve my God who became my sacrifice so that I could know THE REST OF MY STORY.

Little Pirates and Little Laughs

2007-08-05T20:53:00.000-04:00

Boys, boys, boys!
I'm surrounded by them and yes....I am blessed to have them. These smiles are the greatest thing I get to see during the day. Bryant brought me the dew rag and asked me to put it on his head. Basically because he saw it on my head while I was painting my Mom's kitchen. After I put it on he said, "Cool Dude....Cheese later". A quote from Higgly Town Heros. He makes me laugh so much. Today he corrected an adult who didn't say "No Mam". They simply said, "no". Which is funny considering that I always have to MAKE him say it. He never volunteers it. I just laughed and apologized to the unsuspecting adult who quickly corrected herself when Bryant offered his advice.
Bryant starts Pre-school on Monday and yes, I am going to cry. On several occasions I have already cried about it. I am so excited for him to be able to play and learn, but sad that I will miss seeing the moments when he makes a new friend, cries when he gets hurt, or just miss watching him PLAY! It is one of my favorite things to do. Of course I will get over it once I realize that I get to go to the grocery store with only one child in tow. I will actually have somewhere to put the groceries now. HA HA!

Lukas is so sweet. He gives us the sweetest smile and laugh just for looking at him when he calls for us. His calling sounds more like a pig grunting than actual words, but it gets the job done.
He has taken a special interest in Bryants' stuffed giraffe. Lukas loves for us to tickle him with it. He also seems to like Chris' rough face to tickle his little cheeks.

I will let you know how Bryant's first day goes....and how I did as well.

Taking Time to Smell the Flowers

2007-07-14T21:27:00.000-04:00

I know I said I'd post pictures from the party but I didn't get any really good ones. I was too busy trying to hostess. So I decided to post these instead.

In the mornings Chris opens the back door to our house and leaves it open to let in some fresh air. When Bryant wakes up he likes to go out the back door onto our porch and enjoy the cool moring air. Sometimes he even picks me flowers....too bad they're my potted plants. But I don't mind since he say so sweetly with a big grin on his face, "Momma...Flowder". Which means: Momma I picked you a flower. He also hugs my neck and says, "Momma's buddies". Which means: Bryant and Lukas are Momma's buddies.

When we are riding down the road I am amazed at all the things he notices. For instance if there is a balloon anywhere in sight he will see it and yell, "BAOONS" to make sure that you notice them too. I guess it kind of goes along with the smelling the flowers thing. I wonder what it must have been like to smell a flower or to play with a balloon for the first time. Bryant never misses the opportunity to smell a flower or just to notice what I take for granted everyday. I am so glad that I have the opportunity to do it all again for the first time with Bryant and that he reminds me that "flowders" and "baoons" are worth noticing.

The other picture is of one of those sweet moments you wish you could save forever and no picture seems to capture it quite right. But, I love to see all three of my boys together.

Bryant's Two

2007-07-02T21:05:00.000-04:00

I took the boys to get their pictures made and I wanted you all to be able to see them. It was quite the experience. There is no way to get a 3 month old and a 2 year old to look at the camera at the same time. Please feel free to go to the website and view the picutres. www.amywojcikphoto.photoreflect.com Click on "Tiffany and Boys" and then the password is "boys". If you have a problem let me know.

I will post pictures from the party soon.

WHO IS WHO?

2007-06-21T20:34:00.000-04:00

Except for the date on Lukas' picture it is hard to tell them apart. Lukas is also a little bigger than Bryant at 12 weeks. When Bryant was 12 weeks old I started back to work and this was His first day to day care. I was so emotional that day. Lukas turned 12 weeks old and I put him in the exact same outfit and in the carseat just like Bryant and snapped this shot. I stopped for a minute and just thought about what a different place I'm in this time around. I am home with both boys everyday and not going back to work on a regular basis anytime soon. I am happy that Lukas will not be as sick as Bryant was from the time he was 3 months old until he was 9 months old. It is a blessing to be a stay-at-home mommy.

I will take them next week to get Lukas' 3 month pictures and Bryant's 2 yr pictures. I love looking back over the pictures I had made of Bryant it reminds me of the changes I saw in Bryant and in myself. Each picture brings back thoughts of what God was working out in my life during time and where he was leading me. TENDER THOUGHTS are what they are......and so the name of my blog.

Just Me and The Boys

2007-06-07T21:00:00.001-04:00

Chris left this morning for a 5 day vacation in Mexico. Notice I said "Chris". Yes, I am here at home with the boys. Chris' sister is getting married this weekend in Cancun and of course I was invited, but felt uneasy about taking these two little ones. Call me crazy.....because I KNOW some of you are (Kathy J. Ha Ha!!!) I will admit I would love to have gone.....without the kids :).

But, I am still breastfeeding Lukas and I, frankly, was not ready to leave him. I'm a little attached to him right now. :)

I've been thinking lately of all the things that mothers do and how they do it. So, I have come up with my own list of 10 ways you "Know your a Crazy Mom" in true Jeff Foxworthy style.

YOU KNOW YOUR A CRAZY MOM IF:

1. you can drive a stick shift car, talk on the phone, and feed the baby strapped in the back seat a bottle all at one time.

2. you can hold your 1 month old, cook dinner, and talk on the phone at the same time.

3. your self description includes: taxi cab driver, administrative assistant, chef, nurse, story teller, and teacher.

4. (this one is for those of you who breastfed) even after your child is well into his toddler years, at the sound of a baby crying you swear that you feel your milk come in.

5. when you hear a child yell mom, even if its not yours you turn around.

6. (this one is for Angie) even if you swore you'd never be the "minivan mom", your starting to think it might be nice to have one. ( HA HA)

7. you wish your two year old had a volume button and a pause button.

8. you can't remember the last time you slept through the night.

9. your no longer appalled by talk about poo-poo and pee-pee, in fact it is a regular topic of conversation.

AND the last way you know your a crazy mom is:

10. you swear that you had a shower today, but can't remember for sure.

I could spend all day writing these silly things. I would love to hear from you if you have one I could add to my list.

2007-05-17T20:17:00.001-04:00

Just a quick picture to let you know I am still alive and well. We are adjusting to our new lives quickly and are so thankful for little Lukas. He is a happy baby. He smiles all the time and loves to hear his brother's voice. He sleeps great at night.....we even had one all nighter this week.
I am finding my way in this crazy parenting roll. Bryant is challenging me, but still an absolute joy to have around. He makes me laugh everyday by the words he trys to say and the little moves he tries to do. Chris is a wonderful Daddy. He has been gracious to me as a crazy Mother and loves me better than I deserve. He has had his share of evenings with both boys all by himself and has managed to do things quite well. That is a plus for me....so Mommy can have some time to herself. Another thing I've realized is that I am the only girl in this bunch.....ok by me though......hopefully Bryant and Lukas will LOVE their MOMMA!

2007-04-23T12:17:00.000-04:00

Today Lukas is 1 month old. It is hard for me to believe that 1 month as already flown by. And look at Bryant....in just 2 short months he'll be two. He has been a little angel for me. He is always making me laugh. I can turn on the music and let him dance a jig for me and it always makes me laugh when I need it most. Lukas is changing every day. The response that I got from the last email was that most people thought he looked like Chris and Bryant. Yet again, I loose out:). I do think that Bryant is beginning to have some features that look like me, but his coloring is so much like Chris that it is hard to see me in there anywhere.

Funny Things Bryant is saying:

1. Ukas for Lukas

2. eeping for sleeping

3. elp for help

4. Bydant for Bryant

5. Go Cocks

6. Anything that he hears us saying he will try to repeat.

7. Mommy, Daddy kiss kiss (meaning he wants us to kiss)

8. gen for again

9. Bryant calls his passy "baby"

What Bryant does for Ukas

1. covers him with his blanket...over his face as well

2. Gives him his passy when he is crying

3. Yells "Ukas, Ukas OK" when Lukas is crying

4. Every morning kisses Lukas good morning

5. Every night kisses Lukas good night

6. Trys to share his toys with him (Bryant is an excellet sharer!)

7. Trys to share his snack with him

BABY LUKAS IS HERE

2007-04-14T14:08:00.000-04:00

I know you all think I've fallen off the face of the earth. Truth is, I feel like I have at least for this season of my life. Since my last posting, I 've gotten pregnant, and had a little baby boy named Lukas Merritt Burns. He was born March 23rd, 2007.

Weighing in at 6 lbs and 13 oz. He doesn't look too much like anybody at this point. He is dark skinned and has light brown hair.

I am adjusting to life in the Burns' house with two babies. It is hard and I expected it to me, but I was hoping that maybe I was wrong.

HA HA!
Bryant is a great big brother. For a while he seemed angry at me, and probably was, but now he loves to be close to Lukas and be my helper. He's grown up so much in 3 weeks. Or maybe it is just that compared to Lukas he just seems so big.

Chris and I are so happy to have two boys in our house. Chris informed me that I better get excited about hunting, fishing, camping, and all the boy things they will want to do. My heart smiled because I already am excited about all those things, and Chris knows it. :)

I hope to hear from all of you soon and appreciate your prayers as the Lord is teaching me about growing up men.

Pawley's Island Hosts the Burns Family

2006-07-15T19:24:00.000-04:00

We spent 6 nights at Pawley's Island with Chris' family. It was great to hang out with them and enjoy the beach and sun.
Bryant loved the water and the sand. Except for 1 day with a raw bottom he had no problems. He did the typical things like eat sand and giggle at the waves. He loved to just have a bucket of water and a shovel. He would stir the water with some sand and then pour it out.
One of the funniest things he did was when we started to watch the movie "Daddy Day Care". At the beginning of the movie a song plays that apparently Bryant loves. He would stand next to the TV and do a little jig. In fact we played the song several more times just so that we could laugh and see him get his groove on. It was one of Kodak moments I'll not soon forget.
We spent most of our time relaxing and going back and forth to the beach. We went out to eat one night with Chris' family and then we had a date night on Thursday. We went out to eat and then to watch Superman Returns. It was a great date night. Of course, at this point, any time alone is a great time.
Here are some other photos of the week:

How's the sand taste, Bryant?

Future Kayaker!!

Bryant's First Birthday

2006-07-02T18:54:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that a year has passed. On June 28th, 2006 my baby boy turn a year old. As you can see, he had a great time getting into the birthday cake. We had a cook out with a few family and friends on Saturday, July 1st, 2006 to celebrate the big day.
Ok, so I've made it through the first year and how do I feel.....?

I've learn a ton in such a small amount of time about: diapers, baby food, sleep patterns, formula, shoe fittings, baby toys, how to do things one-handed, my physical limits and God's abundant provision, how to clean house without making a noise so not wake up Bryant, and the list could go on and on. Its funny how after one child you feel like you've experienced every mothers joy and pain. It's like you all of sudden have thousands of new friends who know EXACTLY what your feeling. I am so thankful for every single moment I've spent with Bryant.....he's afectionally known as: my little rascal, sweet kisser, paci lover, blanket snuggler, curly headed, blue-eyed, root-beer belly, blueberry lover. All these days have been the best days of my life and I know that they will only get better. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRYANT!!

Ian Spencer, Bryant, and Karis enjoy the baby pool at the party

This is Whitten Burns, Bryant's 12 week old cousin. He looks just like his mommy. I know that he and Bryant will be big buddies!!

Lindsey and Karis teach Bryant how to drink from a cup.

This Cameron and Gabi Duncan. Bryant and Cam are only 2 months apart. Cameron is definatley bigger than Bryant...but Bryant's got more hair...HA HA!!

Thanks everyone for making the party so great! I also appreciate those sent presents to Bryant even though they could not be here. We love you all and appreciate your thoughtfulness.

HAPPY FATHERS DAY CHRIS

2006-07-02T18:27:00.000-04:00

Aside from the joy of being your wife; being the mother of your child is one of the greatest joys in my life.
I couldn't ask for you to be a better father. I love the way that Bryant lights up when you walk into a room. I love the way he screams when you wrestle with him and the way he says his favorite word: "DA DA"
I will never take for granted you help with dinner time, bath time, mommies rest time, and early morning feedings. I am thankful for all that you do and the gentle, loving way that you do it. Bryant is going to grow to be a great man of God because of the man that he will see in you. I love you with all my heart.

Mommy Melt Down

2006-06-09T20:46:00.000-04:00

OK, so I've been a slacker about updating this blog. But don't worry, I'm back and ready spill my guts. Over the past 2-3 weeks lots has happened. In my last update I told you about the Ear Nose and Throat doctors visit, but I have not been able to update you about what happened.
At the visit Dr. Foster informed Chris and I that Bryant did need tubes. After a lengthy discussion he told me that if I could get him out of day-care he may not need tubes. Needless to say my heart broke at the thought that something I had allowed him to do resulted in him having health problems. Now, for all you mom's who's babies had tubes please don't think that I have issues with those wonderful inventions that make life so much easier. I know that its an easy surgery and for most it is a welcome event. But, for some reason, I just couldn't let this thought go, "I needed to do something". It was like this ache in me that I couldn't let go of. And for those of you who prayed that I would know what to do, your prayers were answered, because when we got home I told Chris that I didn't care if we had to sell the house and the car and do without all the luxuries that we had, one of us needed to be at home full time with Bryant. I didn't care if it was him or me. But this mommy couldn't stand him being sick any more. Of course, my sweet husband needed to pray about this. I don't even know how many days passed before he decided that he would tell his employers he would be leaving work to be a stay at home dad. What a great Dad Bryant has. I don't know many men who would give up their careers to keep a baby. Deep in my heart I didn't think that Chris would be happy at home, but he seemed to think that he would be fine.
After discussion with his employers he told me that they asked him how much it would take to keep him there and let me stay at home. So, that night we made out a budget and laughed at the thought that they would be able supply the need. But, little did we know that God had other plans. Chris gave them the numbers and we never expected the reply that we got.
Chris called me at home and his words brought me to tears. "Well, I got the raise and a new job."
I didn't quit crying the rest of the day. In my heart I believed that God would make a way for one of us to be at home. I just thought that since we couldn't live off of Chris' income alone and we could make it on mine, that logically I would be the one to work. For once, I didn't doubt God. I knew that the feeling I couldn't let go of was from God. I was determined that I was not going to fail the test this time. I passed the test of believing alright, but I limited God to my perspective. He gives to us out of HIS abundance!!!! He gives to us in a way we don't expect. He gave us exactly what we needed and it had nothing to do with what I thought was right or logical. Chris and I know that we experienced a miracle. If we never see another we know that God sees us right where we are and desires to give us the very best, even better than what we ask or imagine. What a gracious God we serve.
Last Friday was Bryant's last day of Day Care. His WONDERFUL aunt Lisa will be keeping him most of the summer. But along with a little help from my mom, Chris' mom and Merissa, Bryant has his summer full while I finish my time at work. He will spend most of his summer with Lindsey and Dillon who he LOVES.
I have to take Bryant back to the ENT on the 15th of this month and I know that we still may have to get tubes for Bryant, but I know that we did what was best for him and that makes me happy beyond belief. I'd also be crazy to believe that God can't heal Bryant. He's already proved to us that he will do more than we imagine. So, for now I will just pray for God's will to be done and FULLY trust that no matter what.....God loves Bryant more that I do, he will do what he desires, and I will give Him GLORY for all that he does.

Sweet little Curls

2006-05-12T14:20:00.000-04:00

He's the sweetest little man I've ever known. Yesterday, I sat with him on the couch as he pulled my hat off and put it on his head. When he went to put it back on my head he hit me in the face. I made a little noise and said, "Oww". He laughed so hard and he threw his head back as if he had done something spectacular. We played this game for several minutes....He was so funny that I called Chris so that he could hear Bryant's little belly laugh.

Next Tuesday we will make a visit to the Ears Nose and Throat Doctor to see if Bryant needs tubes in his ears. He has had 4 ear infections in his 10 months of life and even when there is no infection he has had fluid behind his ear drum. Dr. Blake said that after 6 months of fluid behind one ear he recommends that you see the ENT doctor. I've cried and prayed that God would somehow heal Bryant. Maybe when we go to the visit all the fluid will be gone. Wouldn't that be a wonderful miracle? But either way...I'm confident that I'll know exactly what to do. God always seems to give me peace exactly when I need it. So, if I could ask you all for a small favor? Just say a short prayer right now for Bryant. That God would heal him, if it be his will, and if not...Pray that I would be diligent to listen to his direction.

I posted this picture of Bryant from 4/29....The day he turned 10months old. I also wanted you all to see his sweet little curls. They are only on the top, back part of his head. All the rest of his hair is straight.

Bryant and Daddy washing the car

2006-04-23T19:47:00.000-04:00

This is the kind of scene that I know I'll enjoy seeing over and over again during the coming years...Daddy teaching Bryant. I pray that Bryant grows to be a gentle, kind, strong, smart man just like his Daddy.
Next week Bryant will be 10 months old. For some reason I feel like it is a mile stone. It's not like he's a year old yet, but he's no longer in the single digit months like 9.... How silly am I? I think that I over analyze the situation, but being a mommy seems to have brought this quality out in me. Today, Greg and Sydna came over and brought my new nephew Whit. I felt privileged as it was Sydna and the baby's first outing since his birth almost 2 weeks ago. I held Whit the whole time and of course I reminisced about holding Bryant just 10 short months ago. I can say SHORT now, but really there were a few months that I thought that I'd never get through. But anyway, back to the story. I cried as I confessed to Sydna that I had been over whelmed with the amount of advice that I was given. Because it made me question my own instincts when what I was doing didn't necessarily match the advice I was given. My point was to her, that I always did my best, and no matter what...."Your the Mommy of the year to Whit". They are resilient little things and even when I was wrong, Bryant was no worse off and I always figured it out and still am for that matter. I call it "We're working it out". For the next 18 years or so Bryant and I will be "Working it out". We'll get through the baby stage and he'll be a toddler...Learning to talk and say things like "no"...And guess what? We will definitely "Work it out". Don't get me wrong....I need the advice, its just that now I know what to do with it.......Listen and think about it.....Then do what I think is best. And now I also know it doesn't have to always be what everyone else thinks is best.

My Spitters

2006-04-11T20:31:00.000-04:00

This is a picture of Chris and Bryant spitting together. Bryant has learned this trick along with being able to click his tongue on the roof of his mouth. I know that at some point we'll have to teach him that spitting isn't nice, but for now....it is makes us laugh.
Monday was Bryant's first visitation into his new class. He was there from 9-11. They said he did great. He was happy to be with his friends Jack and Jameson who moved up last week.
This weekend we bought him his first pair of walking shoes. On Sunday we put them on him and it made me so sad. He doesn't look like a little baby any more. He was a little boy.
He's only waking up one time at night now and his cheeks are getting chubbier by the day. Everyday he does something different. Last night Chris and I were playing with him and the "M" sound came out of his mouth. So far it the only noices were different inflections of DA DA. Today he was saying MA MA. I don't think that he has associated that with me yet, but don't worry....I'm working on it.
As of right now Sydna and Greg are at the hospital having a baby boy. I am sad that I am not there to share it with them. Bryant goes to bed so early that there was no way he was gonna make it for the baby to be born. I wanted Chris to be able to stay so I am home with Bryant who is fast asleep. Just 9 months ago I was in labor. Bryant was just this buldge in my belly. I had not seen his face, held him, kissed him, known him. Now, I couldn't imagine my life without him. I am so exicted for Greg and Synda as they will find this new place in their hearts will open. This little boy named Whitten will change them in all the right ways. WELCOME TO THE WORLD WHITTEN.
(I post pictures later)

Little Man

2006-03-29T20:22:00.000-05:00

I will admitt that I've been busy. Not really had time to sit and think. When I do these updates, I like to think a little. Just stop and think over the past days and make note of the things that stick out.
Bryant turned 9months old today and I usually work on Wednesdays, but due to some work issues I changed my work day to tomorrow. Which worked out great, because I got to spend the day with Bryant.
He is constantly on the move. He absolutely loves our dog Prissy, his favorite part; the wagging tail. He laughs every time she wags it in his face. He's also very mobile. His crawling skills are getting better everyday, and did I mention that he is pulling up now on any thing he can? Today I was putting dishes in the dishwasher and he pulled up on the door while it was down. I watched in amazement as he worked his way all the way around.
I found out this week that he will be moving up to the Pre-Toddler room at the day care. They handed me what the called "His Walking Papers" and I cried right there in front of 2 parents and 2 teachers. "I'm not ready yet!" Imagine that, I'm not ready. They replied, "But Bryant is". Of course he's ready.......I know that, but maybe if they kept him, he wouldn't progess as fast. You know what Imean, maybe he'll stay LITTLE just a while longer.

2006-03-09T13:30:00.000-05:00

Since my last blog I've had a few revelations. I started my last blog talking about turning 30 and at some point on these pages I planned to talk about how I really didn't want to be 30. But a few days have passed since March 4th and I guess you could say....I'm glad I waited to complain about aging.
On March 8th my parents celebrated their wedding anniversary...I'm a bad daughter because I can't quite remember which it is, but if I had to take a guess, I say somewhere around 36 years. On this day for the past few years, I've really come to understand what a wonderful thing it is that my parents are still married. In a world where divorce comes a dime a dozen....I'm glad to say that I know what it means to have parents who loved us and each other enough to fight for their marriage. The truth is that one of the greatest things about my family is the legacy of love that I was born into. When I look at both sides of my family it is almost unbelieveable that, as big as it is, that divorce is almost non existent. I think about my aunts and uncles and am so thankful for the example they have set for us ...their neices and nephews and their children.
So to my Mom and Dad, thank you for sticking it out. For loving each other that crazy way that you do, for teaching us what it means to love and trust God, to stay together for better or worse, for rich or poor, in sickness and in health. It is a legacy that will affect generation after generation of this family. Your faithfulness does not go unnoticed. And to my aunts, uncles and cousins may your marriages be a source of joy and strength to you and may God teach you more about how much he loves you by the way you love each other.
I say all this to say that turning 30 isn't as bad as I thought it would be. I had a few little tears to fall, and a break-down on the phone with Merissa. And in her words, "this too shall pass". It's true; next year I will only be older. HA HA!! Yeah, I am laughing, not crying. My only hope is that I will be able to look in the mirror in 30 more years and say that they were as wonderful as the first 30. Tim McGraw's song, "My Next 30 years.......will be the best days of my life".
After writing about my sister's birthday and my parent's anniversary I have come to realize that every year I get to live is a gift. My skin will wrinkle, my cheeks will sag (in both places), but there is always more to celebrate about than to be depressed about. The life that God has given me has been like my favorite play ground. Its a place where I've gotten a few bumps and bruises, fell down, got back up, road all the rides with lots of friends who know my name, smelled all the flowers and then picked a few just for myself. My favorite pick was Chris. I love you! I wouldn't trade my past 30 years for anything. They lead me straight to you....And I look forward to my next 30 years with you.

Crystal's Birthday

2006-03-06T19:34:00.000-05:00

OK, so this might be a long one, but bare with me....It's been a long two weeks.
First there was my sister's birthday. Crystal, my beautiful YOUNGER sister, turned 29 on Feb. 24th. For 1 week we both were 29 years old. This is when it finally hit that I was turning the big 30. SHH!! I was hoping no one would notice but me. It seems weird to no longer be "in my twenties". But, before I get on my "Thirties" discussion I wanted to write a few words about my sister.
At first glance you can tell that Crystal is something special. She has striking blue eyes and this curly hair most anybody would die for. A petite frame and a style all her own. She carries herself like a strong woman should..head high, shoulders back and two children attached to her hip. Though Crystal and I are from the same womb, we are two very different people. Each with our own memories of childhood and adult experiences that have lead us down different paths. However, we share a bond that only sisters can. It is strong and beautiful. I can tell her my deepest fear and know that somehow, even when words can't express my thoughts, that she knows exactly what I mean. I wanted to remind her of some things I never want to forget. So excuse me while I reminisce:
NEVER FORGET:

The pack of cards we stole from Christian Supply
The Weed Eater Box you took a pee in.
Rolling down the hill in that same box.
"Daddies in the ARMY"
"Momma, Daddy said God Bless America"
Our dog BJ and our trips to the creek
Picking Blackberries in the yard
Shining a flash light on the ceiling in the middle of the night and thinking it was hilarious
Throwing socks at each other in the middle of the night and trying to find them
Barbie dolls
Our red bean bags and cartoons in the mornings
Gum in my hair during bath time and how Dad cut it out
Sleeping together on Christmas Eve
Swinging on our swing set
I saved your life at CB's pool ( you owe me big for this one)
Our summer at the beach..just me and you
Weekends at Carolina when we'd sit in the car and talk for hours....The best time I've ever had
When we became friends and not just sisters.

There is so much more that I could say, but I just wanted Crystal to know that I love her, her husband, and my niece and nephew. That some of my greatest memories are with her...Even the bad ones are great.

Crystal, your my friend, my sister, my hero. I hope that each day you awake in your next year that you will be happy to be alive, filled with the spirit of love, see a clear vision of God's purpose for you, and walk worthy of His grace. Happy 29th Birthday Lil' Sis!

I'll save my Thirties Discussion for another day!

I'll Buy A Vowel Please

2006-02-23T11:20:00.000-05:00

As Bryant makes his way through the vowel sounds I find myself reviewing them as well. I bet it's funny to any passer by to here our conversations made up of
"DA DA", "DO DO", And then a scream. I thoroughly enjoy those conversations as they don't require much thought, just a sweet voice and a smile are all I need.
This a picture of Bryant saying DA DA with his very expressive face. I am sure that MA MA will be the next word, but perhaps it will be PRISSY (our dog). She is the best entertainment for Bryant we have.
Just a little prayer:
May you be blessed by God beyond measure with love, hope, and peace. Love of those who know you best. Hope that tomorrow will be as good as or better than today, and peace that no matter what tomorrow brings God will get you through it...and a better person for it.

Some Days Are Better Than Others

2006-02-16T13:13:00.000-05:00

There are days when I wonder if I will ever feel like things are normal. Then there are days when......I'm glad they're not normal. Those are days that I look at Bryant and see how beautiful he is....how much my heart burst when I see him smile (snotty nose and all).

I haven't written too much about his day care, but I wanted to share with you what they say about Bryant.

He's a lover
He's a kisser
He's a mover and a shaker
He's the envy of all the girls....Cause he's got beautiful curls
He's not a napper
This was a funny...."Can you cut his nails, cause when he's trying to kiss everyone he grabs their face and scratches them?"

They love him at the Mary Black Children's Corner. Ms. Gaye and Ms. Sandie are his favorites and boy can they make him smile. I know he likes it there, because when I walk in the door and he sees their face he smiles. He knows..."IT"S PLAY TIME".

Make Way for More Teeth

2006-02-04T19:50:00.000-05:00

Today Chris' sister Jessica came to town from Columbia. We spent most of the day hanging out with her. It blesses my heart to watch Bryant make those around him smile. Isn't it amazing how babies do that? Their joy is infectious and when it is your child who's joy is spreading it makes you even happier.
For supper we went to eat at Firehouse Subs. It is one of my new favorite restaurants. While watching Bryant smile at his sweet cousin Lindsey I caught a glimpse of another bottom tooth. After further investigation not only was there one tooth, but two more teeth. So now Bryant has 4 teeth pushing their way through and they are all on the bottom. Over the past few months it seems that everyday Bryant is showing me something new. I feel almost desperate to capture my thoughts so that I won't forget them. So that I won't forget how I feel, how he looks, and what he's doing. I was sharing with my friend Merissa how I've never been so aware that each moment with him will never pass again. I never want to look back and think I wish I would have taken more time to cherish each little milestone and rejoice that God loves to bless me with them.
Everyday I am a little more amazed at this whole thing of being Mom. Oh my, how it has changed me. I find myself wondering what every parent wonders, "What did I do before I had a child?" Being a mom has taken all that is in me and changed it into something different, something, I think is better. All that I was before has brought me here to this place, this season. And in this season I see all that I was before being changed by such a small little being. In one moment Bryant became apart of my journey to being more like the person God created me to be. Along the way there have been some tough lessons....and I am sure that there will be more. But, I am well aware that each of them, even the daily struggles, are meant for my good. In the end, it will be a blessing to have been down this road. Glad your all along for the ride. I love you!

"Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you will look back and realize they were the big things." ----Unknown

7 Months Old

2006-01-29T19:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Bryant turned 7 months old. He is doing what my friend Ellen calls the "Commando crawl". He started that on Tuesday. The sad part is I missed the first time. I was in the kitchen putting something in the dishwasher for about 3 minutes. When I came into the den Bryant had moved from one couch to the other. The key to knowing that he had crawled there was that usually his movement if from side to side.....(he will usually roll from place to place). But this was a forward movement. I watched him for a few minutes to see what he was doing and sure enough, he did a little crawl on his elbows. I cried and called Chris to inform him that Bryant had crawled and I missed it. How sappy I have become since becoming a mommie. This is picture of Bryant at Christmas. His Aunt Lisa took the photo of him. I know I am going back in time, but I couldn't resist sharing this photo with you. I did take some pictures yesterday when he turned 7 months and I will post those in a few days.

He is also starting to show some attitude.
Things he doesn't like:

His car seat
His high-chair
To be left alone
To have to stop and eat....He'd rather play any day
To sit still (this is why he doesn't like #1 and #2)

Things he likes:

To play rough with his daddy
To give kisses...slobber and all
To make noise with his toys
To take baths
To listen to music
To play with the phone and TV remote
To be NAKED
To touch your face
To play with my hair
To watch our dog Prissy run around the house
To go for walks in our yard with Prissy
Carrots

Bryant will be dedicated on Feb 26th, 2006. We were asked to give a life verse for him. This is the one I choose and it is also the one my mom prayed for me.

Colossians 1:9-14

For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sin.

Going Under

2006-01-19T15:58:00.000-05:00

Bryant is such a little adventurer. He likes to go under things. He went under the couch a few weeks ago, and now he's found that he can go under the ottoman. It is such much fun to watch him wiggle is way around. He can't crawl yet, but he sure knows how to get around.
I also wanted to let those of you know who don't know, that Greg and Synda are having a baby boy in April. I can't wait to be an Aunt again. I already have 2 nieces and 2 nephews.....and feel so blessed that my family will expand by another nephew very soon. He and Bryant will only be 10months apart. I am sure they will be big buddies. God continues to bless my world with more than I deserve or ever thought I would have. Byrant has a book called GIVE ME GRACE. Each day of the week you pray for something different. It has become our favorite book. On one of the days it says to keep the ones I love, comfort them from up above......may you feel comforted and loved......because you are.

Two Teeth

2006-01-16T19:07:00.000-05:00

For months now Bryant has been drooling all over everything. He was going through 5 or more bibs a day. I knew those little teeth were on their way.
How we discovered them:
We were eating dinner and my parents house and, of course, Bryant has already started wanting whatever we have. I put my glass of water down to his lips and puts it right in his mouth. To get a visual: Just imagine a puppy with his tongue stuck down in a bowl. It was one of those priceless moments you wish you had on tape. Well, while slopping some water from my glass I heard a tooth chime on the glass. I immediately stuck my fingers in his
mouth and there they were. Two teeth barely poking
their way through.
I never knew such small little moments would mean so much to me. Never want to miss them.....don't want you to either.

Crazy Hair Day

2006-01-09T19:04:00.000-05:00

After Chris gives Bryant his bath he loves to spike up his hair. The longer Bryant's hair gets the funnier it gets. Thought you'd like to see a picture of it.

Christmas 2005

2006-01-07T14:52:00.000-05:00

The holiday season is finally over and I decided it was time update every one on how we are doing. Bryant is 6 months old now and a crazy little boy. He rolls over both ways now and is about to learn how to crawl and sit up. Today was a day for a few milestones. First, he ate his first meal in a high chair. Second,he had his first adventure with a sippy cup. I cried of course and Chris laughed at me. But, I am trying to savor every moment, realizing it will never pass my way again. Here is Bryant for his first Christmas.

Gosnell Christmas

2005-12-26T15:12:00.000-05:00

Every year my dad's family has a little get together. Though, I don't know if you could call it little anymore. As you can see from the picture, we're not a little family anymore. What a beautiful family I have.

2005-12-06T14:01:00.000-05:00

From now on I will try to, instead of sending emails, send you updates of this website. I don't know why it has become so important to me that you know how/what we are up to. Maybe, it is because I want to know how all of you are doing as well. I want to thank Ellen Parker for the idea. She sent me her blog and I couldn't resist starting one for myself. So here is my attempt to keep you up on the life and times of the Burns Bunch.
I love you!
Tiffany