Java Mama

Eleanor Clair Bradshaw

2009-08-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Hello all, this is Jason posting on Jodi's behalf.

Eleanor (Ellie) Clair Bradshaw was born yesterday at 6:36 pm weighing in at 7 lbs., 3 oz. There should be a few pictures of her below.

My To Do List

2009-05-03T18:37:00.001-07:00

There has been a lot going on in the Bradshaw household the last few weeks. I had a list of things that NEED to get done before the baby arrives in August.
1. Get a bigger vehicle (specifically to be able to visit our parents which was hard to do in our 2 door civic and saturn with just one child).
2. Get work done on our crawl space so that we can redo the room above it.
3. Redo our bedroom to make as Owen's new room. If you have never been to our house our 3rd bedroom is off the kitchen and super loud so we are making that our room (just moved in the furniture tonight).

We have completed #1 and purchased a new mini van (new to us at least) about 3 weeks ago. After having it for about 5 days we found out it needed a new transmission!!!! My brother owns the same van and I knew they had a recall on it. So I asked the Honda mechanic to check and we were literally within a week or two (of a seven and a half year time period) before it expired! God is good! Not only did we get a van with lower mileage than we thought we could afford but it also came with a brand new Honda certified transmission. :)

#2 is happening this week. I am going to hang out with my sis in Columbus for a few days while our crawl space is being worked on. We were originally quoted 4x the cost of what the total is actually coming to - another one of God's many blessings. Can't wait for that work to be done with.

And last but not least, #3 is hopefully going to take place early next week. I have purchased LOTS over the last 9 months for Owen's big boy room. Last summer we found super cute Pottery Barn Kid's quilts for 70% off!!! We also cashed in some of our credit card points to buy sheets and other random things at Target. My favorite part of the whole room is the bunk bed set that we purchased used through some friends of friends. They are not stacked on top like regular bunks but the top one goes across while the bottom one comes straight out (Kind of like a "T" if that makes any sense). On the sides of the bottom bunk there is a book shelf and a desk. So excited to see how everything turns out. I will post some pics when we get the room done.

So it looks like I am way a head on the list but of course the unexpected always pops up. Last week while giving Owen a bath I suctioned up his little play basketball hoop right above the tub on our tiles. When I pulled it off it took a few tiles with it!! I must be stronger than I thought! But we had Cleyo come and look at it and the whole wall is rotted out so they are going to re-drywall a few walls in our bathroom. So we cannot take any showers until the work is complete - it is rather humorous to see a grown man try to wash his hair in such a small tub. :) As much as we don't want to deal with this right now at least it is happening while our house is already being torn apart and it obviously something that needs taken care of .

So not much more is going on. I am enjoying life right now with just one child as the realization has set in that life is going to change very soon. Owen is hilarious and within the last few weeks has started laughing so much more - he is such a blast! He has also taken up playing by himself more when we are at home which is a huge praise!

Our one last bit of news is that we are leaving for Myrtle beach in less than 3 weeks!! WOHOO! My parents are staying with us for 2 days and then taking Owen back home with them for 4 days. I am so looking forward to just spending time alone with Jay! We are planning to lay out at the beach and read during the day and going out to dinner at night (just like vacations before kids). :) So thankful for this little break before the next baby arrives! My parents rock!

I am having problems uploading pictures since I lost the cord. As Owen would say, "UH OH". I have searched the house for it but still can't find it! When I do find it (or we have to purchase one) there will be some serious picture posts! Hope you all have a wonderful week! It is time for me to go to bed. Good night!

Sissy

2009-04-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

We just found out that Owen is going to have a little sister!!! Yeah, more estrogen in the Bradshaw household! When the woman told us it was a girl we were completely shocked. Not really sure this day would come (last 3 generations of Bradshaws are boys). They said she looked very healthy and she even gave us a yawn when they were taping (super cute). We are very excited! Now to make the nursery a little more girly. :)

I will be posting pictures soon from Owen's birthday party soon!

Awesome!

2009-03-31T10:03:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends got to hold their baby boy for the first time yesterday. Ben and Janet are in Ethiopia right now with their son, Isaac. It has been awesome watching them go through this journey (maybe not for them all the time). God has truly provided for them through the process(financially, spiritually and emotionally) and their hearts always seemed to be overflowing with thankfulness. You can check out a family picture of them by going to the link "whipple words" on the left - it will make you smile!

South Carolina pics

2009-03-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

Enjoying a snack outside with Cousin Tali in the warm North Carolina sunshine.

Owen LOVED the petting zoo and would not leave the poor sheep and goats alone.

Check out this grin. What is he thinking?
Just chilin with Tali after a long day.

Last few weeks

2009-03-26T10:18:00.001-07:00

This was our first time to the park this spring. We only got a few pics because my batteries ran out but Owen was laughing so hard while he was swinging.
We met the Staders at the park for a picnic. Owen loves playing with Audrey.
Owen has a fascination with dry noodles. He loves to transport them from pan to pan (or just throw them on the floor).
Helping daddy tear down the crib. Notice Owen has his tools out. Last night was the first night he slept on his "big boy bed".

Quick Update

2009-03-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Thought I would take a minute and write what we have been up to the last few weeks. I have been continually feeling better and our house is getting back to somewhat of an order. Since the warm spell we have not been spending much time inside. Everyday (that is above 50) Owen and I have been walking and/or going to the park. I am always amazed at the hope that spring brings. For some reason this is the hardest winter for me that I can remember. Even though we have spent much time playing outside Owen never seems to be able to get enough. The other evening we ate dinner outside, went to the park, played in the yard and went to get ice cream and Owen still did not want to come in (after 3 and a half hours). He just loves to be out there and I do not blame him after being cooped up in our house all winter.

In other news Owen is starting to say A LOT of a new words. It is funny how many times you repeat things and then all of a sudden they click in their minds. He is starting to show ownership by saying "daddy's car" or "mommy's coat". It is amazing to watch him learn. You can just see the little wheels in his head turning. He is also a big fan of the songs "Lord's Army" and "Head and Shoulders Knees and Toes" (with hand motions). To cute!

Owen's birthday is just a few weeks away. I cannot believe that he is almost 2!!!! We are having a party for him in about a week (just a little early so that my mom could come). The party theme is Elmo (of course!) and he loves hearing about his upcoming party and going through the bag with all the decorations. We are finding out the day after his birthday the sex of the baby. I wish that I could wait until the birth but I like to have the nursery all ready and if is a girl we need to make it a tad more girly. We are so excited to find out but really I do not care either way (we already got our boy).

Jay is staying busy at work and keeping up with being a wonderful father. Nothing brightens Owen's day like hearing the garage door open and knowing his daddy is home. I am so blessed and some times do not think life could get much better!

I will post some pics of our time in South Carolina as soon as I down load them. Have a wonderful first day of spring (thanks for the reminder Dee)!!!!

Baby Baby Can't You Hear My Heartbeat?

2009-02-15T12:49:00.001-08:00

On friday we got to hear our baby's heart beat for the first time. How amazing! Reality tends to sink in at this point that yes there is something growing inside of me and I am not just getting large for no reason. It also somehow makes sickness a little easier when you realize there is a little guy/girl growing inside of you and it will all be worth it.

Our due date as of now is August 24. When the doctor examined me he said that he thinks I am a little further along (like a few weeks). With Owen they pushed my due date back a month so this is very welcome news. I am going to have a ultra sound on friday to help determine our new date (if it will be changed at all). I am so excited that we will have 3 ultra sounds instead of just one this time! YEAH!!!!

BIG Sale

2009-02-11T08:57:00.000-08:00

I always recommend Sovereign Grace music and right now they are having a HUGE sale on all of their cds. All their albums are $6.00 plus free shipping. If you go to our church you will already know a lot of the songs. If you do not own any of their cds yet I would recommend Psalms and Valley of Vision. You have to go to Sovereign Grace's web site to order them (sovereigngracemusic.org). Happy shopping!

A Few Random Thoughts

2009-02-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

First of all, I wanted to thank all of you who wrote encouraging responses, emailed or called. Many of you showed grace to me being that you have more little ones than I do and yet you were understanding to a hormonal and tired pregnant woman. :) I appreciate and am thankful for all of you!

~ Time at my mom's house was wonderful. Owen did not so much like the plane ride down (neither did anyone else on the plane with how loud he screamed) but once we landed he was good. We spent a few days outside (some in the lower 60's) and went to the zoo for two days and to the children's muesuem for two days. It was wonderful to get out a do different things in a city. Owen seemed to change as the week went on. He is back to his normal self and very happy now. I think my mom was right when she said sometimes you need a break from the kids and sometimes the kids need a break from you. :) Ohh the wisdom!

~ I have a new addiction. I started playing around on Face Book when I was at my parent's house and once I joined I could not stay off the computer. It is so cool to get back in contact with people that I have not seen or heard from since high school or college. I love it! Some people may see it as a waste of time (like my husband - probably because he sees how much time I spend on it) but I think it is relaxing and fun.

~ My brain is like mush. I am forgetting everything at this point and even if I write it down I forget where I put the list. Pregnancy comes with some interesting side affects but I will not go into detail about the others. :)

~ I am so blessed to live in a country where we have the freedom to worship without fear. We had a man come in from Pakistan and speak in our church on sunday and it was like getting a huge punch to the gut. We are such lazy and whiney people. I have so many things to be thankful for that I take for granite daily. I am always asking myself why has God blessed me so much by not only choosing me to be His child but giving me abundant blessings on this earth? I am pretty sure I will never be able to answer that because I do not deserve any of it.

I had more to add to the list but realized I am supposed to bring snacks for life group and it is 4:00. Whoops! There goes the pregnancy brain again.

Mommy Dearest

2009-01-20T16:23:00.000-08:00

My parents used to live an hour from here but 8 months ago moved to NC. I must say that I thought I was a big girl and could handle it but the last month I have missed them more and more.

Most of you do not know my mom but she is my hero. She has the BIGGEST servant's heart I have ever seen. An example is when we had Owen she came to stay with us for a week. Not only did she clean the house, do laundry, make some meals but she also slept in the same room with Owen so that I could sleep unless he needed fed. She is willing to help anyone when they need it.

I cannot complain (thanks to Margaret's post and the Spirits conviction) but I do feel that I need her right now. I just feel a little overwhelmed even though I have so much to be thankful for. I called her this afternoon and through the crying just told her I was struggling with things myself (physically, emotionally and spiritually) and with Owen (specifically discipline). When she prayed for me over the phone she began to choke up to because she left all her children and grandchildren in Ohio. We said our good byes and hung up the phone. Not more than five minutes later the phone rang and my mom said we are getting a flight.

Hopefully, I will be leaving on thursday to fly down to visit for a week. We (Jay & I) decided that I am going to go down instead of her coming up. It is so relaxing at my parents and this will be the last time for just Owen and I to go down without any other family. He will be soaking up lots of one on one time with G & G Slagle. So I will be going to NC twice in the next month (pretty pathetic I know).

I am overwhelmed with thankfulness for the parents God has given me. I am also amazed at the caring and understanding husband I have. Jason is going to be home alone for 2 of the next 5 weeks but insisted that I need to go. He has had so much patience with me and has been such a wonderful help around the house and with Owen. Thank you God for the people You have placed in my life because I do not deserve them.

It's Official

2009-01-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

We have known for a while now (and I am sure that many of you know) but we are pregnant!!! I thought that this is something I should blog about since it is a life changing event. I had my first appointment yesterday which consisted of talking to a nurse, peeing in a cup and getting blood drawn. We are still not sure of my due date but probably will not find out until I am 20 weeks when we get our first ultra sound. I am either due end of July or August.

Life has been interesting here the last few weeks. Christmas was a whirlwind and consisted of my parents visiting us for 2 days, going to Columbus one full day and then hitting the road for Jay's parents for 5 days. I think it was a little to much for all of us. I started to get morning sickness (all day) when we were at the Bradshaw's house and it took Owen a good week a half to get back to normal. I think next year we will cut back a little bit.

The last two days I have been feeling a bit better but my days still consist of waking up with nausea and going to sleep with nausea. At least with this pregnancy I have not been throwing up (although sometimes I want to). As long as my stomach has food in it I am okay. Our house on the other hand it not okay. Because of not feeling well and being extra tired I have been sleeping when Owen does so it has not had a lot of TLC the last few weeks. But I am sure by mid february our house will be the cleanest it has been in years. After 20 weeks and up until about 35 weeks I had crazy amounts of energy and was nesting like a mad woman - I hope that happens again.

Other than that not much has been going on here. We have not been going out a lot recently due to the weather. I must admit I hate winter after Christmas and always seem to be a little down in January, February and March. I am already looking forward to the spring. We will be keeping busy coming up soon with visits to Columbus and Owen and I are going to fly with my sister and her youngest daughter to see my parents in North Carolina (got to get in one more free flight with Owen before he is 2).

Overall, we are doing well and very excited to be pregnant. Owen has no comprehension of the fact that there is going to be another child but when I say "where is mommy's baby?" he points to his belly. At least he somewhat gets what I am talking about. Poor guy has no idea what is coming and that all the attention he gets is going to start being divided. I am so thankful for the two and a half years I will have of just being able to get to know Owen before the next one comes. I will keep you updated!!

Praising God!!!

2008-12-19T17:36:00.000-08:00

Ben and Janet are wonderful friends of ours that just got their referral this week for their little boy in Ethiopia. We met this couple at Cedarville when we all traveled on singing teams. Janet continues to be one of my best friends (even though we do not get to see each other all to often) and her blog over the last year has been such an encouragement. It has been amazing to see how God has provided for them and their hearts of gratitude towards those who wanted to help out with the adoption.

If you want to be encouraged today be sure to check out their blog on the left - Whipple Words.

Simple Yet Complicated

2008-12-04T04:33:00.000-08:00

I was just telling my mom a few weeks ago how I think this is the least stressed out I have ever been in my life. I was just not made to work full time outside of the home, Before we had Owen I was working 30 hours a week (at a job I loved) but was still a little too much for me.

Life just seems so simple right now - I love it!!! I love being able to just play with Owen and not worry about time (for the most part). It is awesome that I can stay in pajamas till 3:00pm and no one cares. Our house can be a wreck and I can blame it on the fact that I have a 20 month old!

But at the same time I feel like this is the most complicated my life has ever been. There is a lot to read between the lines of "Raise a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it." How do I raise a child in the way he should go? When do I know what offense to spank for? How do I stop something from becoming a habit of sin in his life?

We just got done doing a study at church on the life of Christ and going through Luke. One of the main things I came away with is that the disciples were a little bit slow, to say the least. Fortunately for me millions of people do not read about my mistakes like we can the disciples'. We are so depraved we do not even realize how depraved we are.

Anyone who does not think that men are sinful should have a child. WOW! Owen has just started a new stage of complete defiance that I am not ready for. That makes life complicated!! Jay and I have had numerous conversations over the last few months about discipline. We want the same end but we just don't always agree on the means to get there. I guess we will keep having these conversations for the next twenty some years. :)

Above all, we long for Owen to grow up as a man who loves his Savior. One other main point I came across in the study was God's mercy and grace. He continued to stay with the disciples even though they kept missing the mark and even though they abandoned Him at His death (and He knew they would). I am realizing more and more everyday that I am just like the disciples and need grace everyday for raising Owen, my thought life and my attitudes that so many of you have probably seen. In the holiday season that we are in I am so thankful for many things but I am most blown away by God's grace and mercy in my life.

September & October Update

2008-10-30T09:28:00.000-07:00

I am a little sick of looking at the same pictures of Owen every time I go to check blogs so I decided to do an update. Frankly, blogging has been way down on my list of things I need do (I would much rather just read someone else's than write one myself). We have been out of town for over 2 weeks this month so have not really been keeping up with it. Here are some pics of our last two months....

We celebrated Labor Day at the park with friends and pizza (Owen's favorite).

My Dad turned 60 in September so we went to Columbus for a party and all went out to dinner afterwards. Can I just say how much I love my family??

Saying bye to grandpa Slagle and giving him a big birthday kiss!!

In mid October Owen and I went to visit my parents in North Carolina for nine days. He loved lots of one on one time with Grandma and Grandpa Slagle. We had a GREAT time and it went way to fast.

When we were in the south we also got to visit the whole Slagle clan in South Carolina. These are some of my first cousins and Owen loved all the attention he got the whole weekend (I think Owen was a little sick of being held - which you can tell in the pic).

We went downtown for Owen to do some trick or treating at the local businesses. That is one cute cow!

This past weekend we visited Brumbaugh Farm. Lots of fun but it was freezing!

Owen decided when we were out of town to start talking. His vocabulary now includes mommy, daddy, grandma, grandpa, Elmo, up and car.

Our Book Worm

2008-08-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

When you walk into our home there is a bookshelf to your immediate right which has about 30 different children's books and various toys. No toy has gotten as much attention as "Are You My Mother", "I Love You Through and Through" or "A to Z" (just to name a few of his favorite books). There comes a certain time of the day when all Owen wants to do is read. He walks up to us carrying books and grunting. He does not let us finish what we are reading before another one is plopped into our laps.

The crazy thing is that now he knows most of the titles so if I ask him to get me a certain book he just walks over to the pile and pulls it out. About 2 weeks ago he started to go into his room and look through other books all by himself. He just sits there and looks at each page individually and sometimes points and makes the animal noises. :) To cute!!

You can see the little wheels in his head turning all of the time as he is trying to make sense of things. What a fun age!

Last Few Weeks

2008-08-04T19:06:00.001-07:00

Jason and I were able to go to the Worship God 08 conference this last week in Gaithersburg, Maryland (I wrote this the week we got back - the first week of August). This was held at Covenant Life Church which is part of Sovereign Grace Ministries (CJ Mahaney, Joshua Harris). "Let Your Kingdom Come", "Psalm 103", "Grace Unmeasured" and "Glories of Calvary" are just a few of the songs that we use at our church through this ministry. Their songs are extremely gospel centered and have incredible lyrics. I would totally recommend their worships albums (sovereigngraceministries.org).

Okay now to the conference.... all I can say it that I feel like I have been punched in the gut a few times because of being convicted of some issues I have been dealing with. I went to this conference just thinking I would be learning more about music, singing and studying the Psalms. I did not expect to learn so much on family worship in the home and being a pastor's wife. While at the conference I was also reading "Feminine Appeal" by Caroline Mahaney which only added to the list of things that need to change in my life (I am not yet finished with this book but would totally recommend it). Lets just say that my attitude toward raising Owen and Jason being in full time ministry is not always the best! Thank you Lord for Your grace and patience with me!!

We went to visit Jay's parents two weekends ago and they took us to the Akron Zoo. Just walking around with Grandma Bradshaw.

Yosie and Owen having a "meal" together at Carriage Hill Park.

Owen at the Great Darke County Fair. Our one and only visit for the year.

Owen just chillin out at home.

We have been gone a lot the last few weeks (hence not blogging or commenting on blogs). Next stop is Cedarville. For the next few days Jay will be playing guitar on a worship team for Fall Bible Conference. Owen and I will be joining him tomorrow evening. After this I am going to be ready to be at home for more than 5 days straight but at least we have kept busy :).

No Sleep for Me

2008-07-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

It is 11:26 pm. I am sure that you are all aware of the fact that I cherish my sleep. Why am I still awake? This weekend I got a little sick on sunday and stayed in bed for 24 hours straight (yes, I have an awesome husband). I think that I could get an average of 3 hours of sleep for the next few days and it would not faze me. Thankfully, I am feeling much better now but just have a nasty sore throat (I think I had a 24 hour flu virus or something).

I have not posted in a while because I feel that nothing monumental has happened in our lives recently. To be completely honest it seems like since we have been back from vacation life has just been a little boring. Not that we do not have a lot going on, but it just seems like I keep doing the same things over and over and over (Groundhog Day??). Owen is officially at the stage that I cannot leave him alone for more than a few seconds. He is into everything. I find it kind of discouraging that anytime we go anywhere one of us has to give up adult interaction in order to follow Owen up a staircase or through a yard. I know it is just a phase but sometimes it wears me out.

I also know that I have a VERY healthy and vibrant little guy, which I am extremely thankful for. I really am trying to cherish these times (like all older women tell you to do) and just enjoy them while Owen still loves being around me. I have never been more content than where I am right now (being able to be a stay at home wife/mom) but I guess, being the sinful person I am, I am never fully satisfied.

Now that I have written down the things that have been floating around in my head (and the fact that it is midnight) it is time for me to go to bed. Thanks for listening. Good night.

Home Sweet Home

2008-07-02T15:49:00.000-07:00

Our sticky boy after downing LOTS of watermelon.

Owen loved the lake water.

He is his father's son. Owen just relaxing and playing with Jay's ipod.

Bath time in our condos huge tub.

I am always ready to head home when vacations are coming to an end. Don't get me wrong, I love them but I also enjoy being on a schedule and knowing what my day holds. Owen decided to start every day nice and early at 5:30 am (we were on central time) but we also had a lot of free time in the evenings because he would go down about 6:30 pm. Mostly are days consisted of a morning walk, a nap time (all of us), going to the pool or lake and dinners with the whole family. It was very relaxing and yet completely different than any vacation we have ever had (Owen was only 2 months old on our last one). Lets just say that we did not lay out and read the whole time (which we used to do). I don't think we will have another get away like that for a LONG time but that is okay with me. I am so thankful for our time away!

Tennessee Here We Come

2008-06-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

There are a million things I SHOULD be doing right now because we are leaving for vacation on friday morning. Other than get all of our stuff packed we are also having an open house while we are gone so it needs to be clean (I like leaving the house clean but not that clean). I just cannot wait to go on vacation!!

Let me explain, my father is CRAZY about vacations (this may run in the genes). Both my parents were school teachers (when my mom worked) and so once spring break and summer rolled around it was time to hit the road. My dad bought into a time share when I was just 5 and continually has built weeks since then. My parents were not wealthy at all (did I mention they worked at Christian schools) but this has always been a priority to them. They drove junky cars, we did not eat out often and a lot of things were hand me downs but we did have great vacations.

Now that my dad has points stored up he generously gives us children vacations. I am so thankful for this because I feel that it is a need and otherwise we would not be able to afford them. The most vivid (and best) memories I have are from vacations and I am so looking forward to building some of these with our little family.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-11T06:33:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the man who comes home from work and instantly has to be in play mode, doesn't mind rolling around on the floor just to get a few laughs, sings all hours of the night to a screaming little boy, changes lots of nasty diapers, has incredible patience (when I want to scream) and wants nothing more than to see his son grow up to be a man who honors Christ with his life.

We are so blessed to have you in our lives!

Anxiousness & Worry

2008-06-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am a weenie! There are a lot of things that I am not afraid of such as roller coasters, repelling, rock climbing or white water rafting (which I have done all of). But if there is a tornado watch or a really bad thunderstorm I literally start shaking. I hate them!! This is on my mind right now because last night we had some pretty severe storms and of course I got out of bed (twice!!) to check if we had a tornado watch (which we did). I love that I jump in bed when there is thunder (I will say it was very loud) but my 14 month old just sleeps soundly. I think that tells me something about childlike faith that my baby can teach me. God is sovereign and is in control! Period!

We are starting a new study at church this coming week called Calm My Anxious Heart. I have read this book over four times. I read it every summer because these are things I really struggle with (the book also talks a lot about contentment - add it my list). I tend to think about the "What ifs?' in life. What if Jason gets in a car accident? What if something happened to Owen? Oswald Chambers says, "It is not only wrong to worry, it is infidelity, because worrying means that we do not think God can look after the details in our lives, and it is never anything else that worries us." Ouch!

These last couple of years God has really worked on me in these areas (obviously, I still have a long way to go). But one thing that has made a difference for me is having a heart of thanksgiving. When I sit down and write out all of the things I have to be thankful for (sorry for those taking the study - this is in the book) I realize how God has been sovereign over the years and always provided all my needs. At that point worry starts to melt away (at least for a little while) and I am content in my situations God has put me in (again, I wish this lasted longer).

I am going to end with one of my favorite passages:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. And the PEACE of God, which transcends ALL understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

AMEN!!!

A Full Week

2008-05-27T09:31:00.001-07:00

Owen had to go to the ER last sunday because he fell on our heat register's knob. You can see where they glued (yes, I said glued) his skin back together on his upper right side of his forehead. Never thought that I would be so thankful for glue!

We got together with the Slagle side of the family this past weekend to celebrate my mom's b-day. Since it was such a nice day we all went to the Columbus Zoo and then had a picnic at the park. This is my niece Sadie and I am holding my brother's new puppy Scout (you can barely see her - she is dark and tiny).

Owen's first time to the zoo. We are standing in front of the Manatee aquarium. He did not care much about the other animals but loved watching the fish swim by right in front of him.

We have had visitors in our yard for the past week. Owen loves to watch them through the window or just run after them outside.

Baby Yosie and Lyndie came over for a visit. I wish we got a better picture but they just loved to hug eachother! Too Cute!

Yeah for Baby Einstein!!

2008-05-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Baby Einstein DVDs I can get ready in the morning if we have to be somewhere, do a quick clean up around the house or take a snort snooze with Owen on my lap. I did not realize the power that these held until a few months ago. With his mouth open wide (like many males and TV) Owen is completely transfixed when these videos are on. Not that I allow him to watch these 24/7 but it is a nice 30 minute break during the day (somedays it takes all my willpower not to allow him to watch more than one). What would I do without them??

Wheee!!!!

2008-05-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

Once again, it has been over a month since my last blog. I promise I will try to post more often. Blogging to me is kind of like scrap booking (I know I should do it but I just do not really enjoy it all that much). Here are some highlights for the month of April:

* We celebrated Owen's birthday with both sides of the family. Of course he loved being able to have access to whole cupcakes at two different times. He got a little more daring at the Bradshaw's home and decided to to not only put it in his mouth but all over his face and hair.

* We were told when we were at my parent's house that they are moving to North Carolina (I would not call this a "highlight" for the month but just a sad event). My dad's new job will be starting Mid July. This is a real bummer for me because I did not grow up anywhere near any extended family so I feel that I do not really know them that well. I think my biggest fear is Owen not being able to spend much time with them. Guess we will just have to be making some trips down south (especially in the winter - I hate Ohio weather).

* Owen got to go on a swing and a slide for the first time ever in April. It was so funny! He could not stop laughing his first time on the swing (now it is not nearly as exciting). If it is nice outside we have been going on at least one walk a day and try to make it to the park. Neither of us like to stay inside very long. I think we still have cabin fever from the winter. I hope he enjoys the pool this summer.

* Owen has grown in a lot of different ways over the last three weeks. Just yesterday he started making animal noises for the first time. He is also learning some sign language (and starting to use it at the right time). Other than Ma Ma and Da Da he has also picked up the word "nana" (for his favorite food - banana).

*He also has started to become more verbal by letting me know when he does NOT like something. Screaming and crying have become much more frequent in our household. If I take something away that he is not supposed to play with I cannot just put it behind a pillow anymore (he knows it is there). He also HATES when I take him out of the swing. He is continually testing the limits on what he is allowed to do. Before when I would say "no" he would look at it and then walk away. Now he looks at me and touches it at the same time!!! Ahhh! Little stinker!! The sinful nature is coming out in him already!

* Owen is much more cuddly now. He takes time away from playing just to come over and give me hugs and kisses (I can always get him to come to me if I "fake sleep" on the floor near him)! I LOVE IT! I guess that makes up for the times he won't go down for a nap or is throwing a temper tantrum. Speaking of naps he is now down to one a day (at least for now).

* Jay and I are both doing well. It seems like every stage of Owen's life is a new adjustment. With him walking now and in to everything we pretty much have to keep our eyes on him at all times. We enjoy taking turns watching him so the other one can go to coffee, read or take a nap. We had a great date night a few weeks ago and are looking forward to another soon (Prince Caspian comes out mid May - Wohoo). I so look forward to spending one on one time with Jason and it is always so refreshing to get out of the house. I am so thankful for an amazing husband!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OWEN!!!!

2008-04-02T13:24:00.001-07:00

March Update

2008-03-26T06:18:00.000-07:00

Owen enjoying his first Easter basket. I think he liked the "grass" more than anything in the basket. He got a Veggies Tales DVD, a baby float (for going swimming on vacation) and fruit leathers (just had to add in something sweet).

These first three pictures were all taken after he got his first haircut. I think he looks more like his daddy when his hair is shorter.

Here is big cousin Caleb feeding Owen when we were staying at their house because of no electricity for over 24 hours due to the ice storm.

It has now been about a month since my last blog. March has mostly consisted of weird weather and sickness. Owen is now on his last dose of antibiotics and seems to be doing much better. He had another sinus infection and ear infection. I think every child at our church has been sick all winter (they probably just keep passing on the same thing over and over).

Other than that Owen is pretty much been his energetic self. About a week and a half ago he just started getting these crazy bursts of energy. Our house is pretty small so there is not much room for him to move around so instead he just gets into everything he can get his little fingers on. I think he has cabin fever. Every once in a while he goes over to our door and stands himself up to look out the window (we have 3 little windows in our door). He is also eating like a maniac. His favorite foods right now are black beans and cheese tortillas, bananas and steamed carrots. Needless to say what comes out later is not pretty but at least he likes a lot of things that are healthy for him.

There will be more pics to come of Owen's first hair cut (already happened but cannot upload the pictures for some reason) and his first birthday (April 2). Stay tuned

It's Fun to Stay at the...

2008-02-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

YMCA! We just became members of the Y a few weeks ago. It is great because they have free child care. So instead of dreading working out I actually look forward to a little break away from Owen. I have not been able to go very much because of Owen's sickness but he is pretty much back to normal (that means crawling all over the place and laughing again).

Every time I go I bring a bag in case I get the luxury of a shower. The problem is that when I go back to check on him after my work out he is always crying. Today when I dropped him off he seemed to be doing well. About thirty minutes into my walk I hear over the loud speaker, "Jodi please come to the childcare center". So much for a shower. The best part was the nursery worker has never had to call a parent (she has worked there over three years). I guess he just wants to set some new records. Separation anxiety here we come!!!

Our Week

2008-02-20T17:06:00.000-08:00

I know it does not look like it but we do feed our child (I think you can count all of his ribs). This is Owen after enjoying a teething biscuit. He looks like he has a beard.

This last week was a week of many firsts in the Bradshaw home. Last Wednesday Owen took his first couple of steps. It was not until Thursday that he actually realized he was not holding onto anything. I wish I had a picture of his face because it was complete horror mixed with excitement. Now he does not take as many steps before falling right into me or on his rump. Sorry no pictures or video yet of walking.

Owen got a shiner on Sunday morning while he was in nursery. I was right there next to him when he fell unto the toy. Monday he fell again on the same spot and reopened it. Ouch!

Owen also had his first night away from us. On Sunday night Jay and I dropped Owen off at Grandma and Grandpa Slagle's house and did not come back for 24 hours!! I thought this was going to be really hard for me but after Owen being sick all week (and very grumpy) I had no problems handing him over. We went to Cheesecake Factory for dinner and then stayed in a hotel that night. I do not know the last time I got 11 hours of sleep but it was amazing! Monday was spent eating Chipotle, Graters Ice Cream, and going shopping (does life get any better?). By 4:00 PM we were both very ready to go see our baby.

Tuesday I took Owen back to the doctor because he still was crying a lot and always felt warm. He is doing much better with his cough but now has an ear infection. He seems to be fine during the day but nights are a little rough.

I am so ready to get all this sickness, cold weather, and snow out of the way!!!! I am longing for the day when we can go on walks again. Hurry up Spring!!!

My Little Man

2008-02-04T18:47:00.000-08:00

Owen is growing up way to quickly! It seems like this last week he has become even more mobile. He is now standing on his own and transporting himself with his walker from one couch to the other. He is getting better at letting himself down gently (except the bloody lip he got a few days ago from falling and pulling his walker down with him). I am sure one of the next couple of blogs with be pics of Owen's first steps.

The Countdown Begins

2008-01-27T17:57:00.001-08:00

The best show of all time is about to start its fourth season. For any of you who have not watched this show I would highly recommend it (we have the first three seasons for anyone who wants to borrow them).

I have to admit that last years season finale made me cry like a baby (in my defense I was a little hormonal - Owen was just 2 months). I cannot wait until Thursday but there are only 8 total shows for this season because of the writer's strike. Sad! Hopefully Owen will go to bed (and stay in bed) by 8:00 because I am going to be completely oblivious for 2 full hours!

Time Away

2008-01-26T05:53:00.001-08:00

On Wednesday afternoon after Owen woke up from his nap I realized I was officially bored out of my mind. Being a city girl, every once in a while I start to go a little insane living in the country. I thought after living here over 3 years I would get used to it but after going Walmart for everything I could possibly need for the next month I decided it was time to get out of town. Don't get me wrong I do love living here but during the winter there is nothing to do and after a few days of being stuck in the house I need to do something.

We got to my parent's house around 4:30 that afternoon. My parents both had meetings that evening but we still got to eat together and once I put Owen down I made cookies for something at the school.

Owen did not sleep well that night but it was totally worth it being able to go to Springfield. My mom took Owen for a few glorious hours so I could go to the mall by myself and out to lunch. I went to Panera and just stared at the wall when I ate. People probably thought that I was a depressed person but it was so nice just to sit. I then got a few refills of coffee and read for a while. After I got home my mom told me to take a nap (I think I am coming down with a sinus infection - again). After an hour long nap we both decided to head back to the mall and check out more sales at Old Navy. I think I have already bought about half my Christmas gifts, shower gifts and new baby presents for the year - they were having AMAZING sales. We ended the evening with chicken tacos and three episodes of Lost (what could be a better day?). So thankful for my parents!!!

In the morning we left just in time for me to meet Charity and Isabel for coffee. Jay and I took a lot of turns yesterday of taking of Owen so the other one could nap. I think we have all come down with the same thing. We had friends over for dessert last night and just talked for a few hours.

Tonight we have a date night!!!! We are going to go to Troy for dinner and then our favorite coffee shop. Thanks Derek and Kari! I am so grateful for these last few days of relaxing and spending time with people we love!

Adopted

2008-01-22T06:27:00.000-08:00

This last week in our Life group we had a great discussion about how we are chosen by God. I love Ephesians 1:4-5 which states, "For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will." When I look at this verses I cannot help but think of two wonderful couples I know who are in the process of adoption. What an awesome reminder of what Christ has done for us!

I am in awe that Christ chose me before the creation of the world to be His child. I am going to leave you with one of my favorite quotes of all time by Charles Spurgeon:

I believe in the doctrine of election, because I am certain that, if God had not chosen me, I should never have chosen Him; and I am sure he chose me before I was born, or else he never would have chosen me afterwards; and he must have elected me for reasons unknown to me, for I could never find any reason in myself why He should have looked upon me with special love.

Long Time No Blog

2008-01-15T05:47:00.000-08:00

Hey! It has been a while since I have taken the time to post. There are many reasons for this which is why I am going to just do a brief overview of the last month.

- We had a wonderful Christmas at the Bradshaw's house. We left right after Christmas Eve service and got into North Canton around 12:30 am. Owen got to meet his Uncle Chris and Aunt Angie for the very first time. He got a lot of attention (being the only grandchild) and a TON of Christmas presents. I think we are going to have to be in the market soon for another house because of all the stuff he has. It is amazing that someone who is so small can take up so much space. The week was spent hanging out with family and doing lots of shopping (I always have a list with me of things we need when we are there).

- The first weekend in January we headed to Springfield to celebrate with my side of the family. It is a little overwhelming with all the kids in one house but such a blast! Owen enjoys just watching his older cousins play together. I know I am biased but I have got the cutest nieces and nephew ever. I enjoyed going to see one of my dad's basketball games on friday night and then on saturday we all hung out at home. I always look forward to spending time with the Slagles.

-Two days later we headed back to Cedarville for Jason to play guitar at Mission's Conference for three days. He got to play with some good friends and it was so nice to see people that we rarely get to see. However, it is depressing going back to a place you spent multiple years of your life at and not knowing anyone. It always makes me feel old when we go back now.

-Owen continues to become more and more mobile. I cannot get anything done with fear that he is chewing on electrical cords or pulling our speakers down on him. I put the pack and play up in our living room so that if I need to make a mad dash into the kitchen I don't have to worry about him getting hurt. He loves to make a lot of faces now and has found multiple uses for toys (check out the pics). The other day he gave me a kiss right on the lips. It was a very slobbery but he opened his mouth and landed one right on me! I think I melted on the spot! The older he gets the more fun he gets. He seems to be a little more work now but it is totally worth it!

Jodi's Top 7 of 2007

2007-12-11T13:28:00.000-08:00

7. My job at REACH -I have been so blessed to have a job that I love. Jan (my boss) has been so nice to keep me on staff even though I am very part time. Occassionaly, I get to go to go into schools on fridays (Jay's days off). Because of our new governor we have lost our funding and are on the verge of closing (thank you Ted Strickland). We are still holding out for something to happen to keep REACH afloat.

6. Our vacation to Hilton Head- We got to go with my parents to Hilton Head when Owen was only 2 months old. It was so relaxing and so nice to get away. It was also nice for Jay and I to get some alone time while my parents watched Owen.

5. Our new Mac/TV - We have literally waited for years to get a home computer. I am so thankful to be able to keep in touch with family and friends via the internet. I love having a connection to the outside world on days when Owen and I do not get out.

4. Pregnancy and delivery - I totally enjoyed being pregnant (except for the throwing up of the first trimester and being over due). People are so much nicer to you when you are pregnant. There are also the people stare me down (and continue to do so) because I look like a teenager. I always try to flash my ring in their direction. I have no idea why I care what they think but for some reason I just want to yell out, "I am 27 and I am married so back off."
Delivery was amazing, it was what came afterwards that was a bit of a challenge (emergency surgery and blood transfusions). It was crazy to think this little human just came out of me and he is mine!

3. Our church body - I love our church. I am so thankful that it is comitted to being a gospel oriented church. The people at our church are incredible. We were overwhelmed this year by the shower that was thrown for us. We continue to meet new individuals who are such servants and want to use their gifts to glorify God. It is so strange to think that a year ago I did not know some of the people that I know now who are such an encouragement to me. Our church had also gone through a lot of changes this year and yet because of God's grace we continued to grow.

2. Friends and family - We got to see a lot of friends this year from college that we do not get to see very often. It is those friendships that once you are together you just go from where you last left off. It is so bitter sweet to see them because afterwards you miss them more. God has giving us amazing friends from high school, college and in Greenville. We are so blessed to have people that help us grow closer to our heavenly Father.
We are so thankful to both be raised in Christian homes. It has been so much fun to watch our families interact with Owen (especially Jay's parents being that it is their first grandchild). I love that we never have to worry about Owen when we leave him with any family members. My mom has been especially amazing this year. She stayed with us for almost 2 weeks after Owen was born. Because of complications I was really weak and my mom just took over. She would sleep in the same room with Owen and only wake me up if he needed to eat! She is a woman that I truly desire to be like. It has also been nice to be able to drop off Owen and their house and go out on dates. :)

Drum roll please! And the #1 of 2007 is.....

1. Being Parents - I could never have dreamed what it was really like to be a parent. It is completely awesome and completely terrifying at the same time. Watching Jay with Owen has been one of the highlights of my year. I have seen a whole different side of Jason since he has become a dad. Jay is an incredible father! I could never ask for a better husband!
I love being a mommy. I cannot imagine life now without Owen (what did we do for entertainment before?) Being a mom has exceeded my expectations and I am looking forward to the new year full of "firsts" with Owen.

As I look back over the year I am amazed at God's grace and goodness in our lives! Thank you Lord for blessing me way beyond what I deserve. Christmas this year brings on a whole different meaning when I think about God sending His only Son to this earth to die. I pray that in the coming year I would be reminded of this daily when I look at the son God has given us.
Merry Christmas!!!!!

Owen's Favorites

2007-12-05T11:50:00.000-08:00

Just a few of Owen's Favorites (in no particular order)
~ Playing and standing in our laundry baskets
~ Sucking on his pacifier (check out both pics)- he just started taking it a few weeks ago
~ Standing in his crib when he does not want to go to sleep
~ Eating fruit (from mashed up bananas to canned apples and cranberries)
~ Any type of mirror. He loves looking at himself. Despite what the books and magazines say I can tell he knows that it is him.
~ Bouncing up and down in his crib before going to bed. We do this before every nap and at bedtime.
~ His fish and fish bowl toys - I got this at a garage sale before I was pregnant for $1.00.
~ Mommy - I have got the goods!
~ Daddy coming home from work. When he hears the garage door open his eyes get bigger and he stares at the door until Jay walks in. He knows that he is about to have some serious play time.

Christmas Dance

2007-11-29T11:29:00.000-08:00

Bradshaw Dance
Jason did not think this was very funny! Bah Humbug! I thought it would spread some Christmas cheer!

The Simple Things

2007-11-28T15:47:00.001-08:00

Today was a good day. This morning I had two friends over for coffee and breakfast. Isabel and Rachel each have a daughter who is close to Owen's age. I am so thankful to have friends in the same life place as me. I brewed coffee on my new french press. My sister, Jaime, introduced me to french press coffee a while ago but we had it again over thanksgiving. The coffee is so much richer and bolder - I love it! This morning I bounced out of bed when I remembered I had bought the press (and the fact that I still had some cleaning to do).

This afternoon we went to Walmart to get some things that we have been needing. Owen enjoyed his time riding around in the cart. He can now sit in the front of the cart so he likes when we go grocery shopping. We then both took an afternoon nap. :)

This evening Owen woke up around 5:00 and then we played with his favorite toy, a laundry basket, for about an hour. Nothing makes him happier than than when I push him around in the basket. He now also loves pulling himself up and hanging on to the sides. I think that he is going to enjoy the box his Christmas present comes in more than the toy! Why do I even spend the money?

Today was just a regular day spent with my little guy but for some reason it was just one of those great days. I love when I can just sit back and enjoy the simple things in life.

So Thankful

2007-11-26T13:35:00.000-08:00

This last week we had Thanksgiving at the Slagle house. I love spending time with my family. The whole Slagle bunch stayed at my parents (8 adults & 6 kids). It was a little hectic at times but so much fun. I am especially thankful this year for two new members to the Slagle family, Owen and Sadie (my sister's daughter).

He's Growing Up

2007-11-20T07:01:00.000-08:00

Owen & Malachi watching their first OSU vs Michigan game! So cute!

These last two weeks Owen has had a lot of "firsts".
* He now reaches up to be held
* He now sits in his high chair to eat (sometimes)
* He can get up to a sitting position on his own
* He pulls himself up to a standing postition (we had to lower the crib)
* He can now wave (although only does this when he wants to)
* He can eat five cubes of apples at one sitting (he also pooped a record high of 3 times in a few hours)

He is growing up way to fast! But we love seeing investigate the world (living room) around him and get so excited when he does something for the first time. He is on the verge of crawling. He just gets into the positon and rocks back and forth. Maybe by the time we go to G & G Bradshaw's house for Christmas he will be mobile.

We had a wonderful weekend. Friday night was our much anticipated date night. We went to BW3s for dinner, went and saw Dan in Real Life (we recommend it) and went to Night Sky for coffee. We were gone for five and a half hours! Thanks so much David and Lyndie for taking Owen! Saturday we got to spend time with wonderful friends and watch OSU beat Michigan. What a relaxing weekend with family and friends! We are so blessed!

Meme

2007-11-14T18:02:00.000-08:00

Okay so I am not really sure what this is but I have been tagged by my sis-in-law Becky (prechewedworms.wordpress.com) and I have to write 5 interesting things about myself and then tag three other people (I think it is a way to get to know other bloggers - it is called meme).
1. Jason and I love to go out to dinner together. Our favorite place to eat is Bravo. I have not been there since before I was pregnant because there is so much garlic. The second I am done breast feeding we are there!
2. I love to clean! When I know that my house is clean I tend to feel more relaxed (guess I have not been relaxed for over 7 months).
3. When Jason and I met for the first time he thought I was a snob. No comments please! It was about a year later that we started dating.
4. One of my favorite things to do is bake cookies - especially chocolate chip (I made some today)
5. When I want to relax I brew some coffee and break out a good book.

I tag Lyndie - whisperingbrooke.blogspot.com
Janet - whipplewords.wordpress.com
Charity - charitywright.blogspot.com

Come on girls! Do not break the chain! Don't forget to tag three other people!

Sweet Potatoes & Wrestling

2007-11-14T10:12:00.000-08:00

There are many things that Owen seems to love about life. He loves to eat! But I think his favorite time of the day is when Daddy comes home and plays with him! It looks like Owen has him pinned!

I LOVE MY HUBBY!!!!!!

2007-11-12T07:12:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was so relaxing. On saturday our mom's group from church went shopping and out to lunch. It was so nice to get away from the cornfields (something I need to do often) and be in a "city". I loved spending time with the women that went along and getting some time to myself. When I pulled into the church parking lot to drop off some of the ladies Jay called and said to stay out longer if I want because he was just giving Owen his next bottle! What a great husband! He had already been with Owen for five and a half hours.

I ended up coming right home and then we fed Owen and left to go back to Richmond (Jason needs to get away a lot to). We went to dinner and did some shopping. It was so nice to go out with my two favorite guys!

Next weekend we have an official date night (thank you David and Lyndie). Looking forward to spending some alone time with Jay. Our last date night we felt like gitty teenagers when we were driving to go to dinner. I must admit dates are much more anticipated and fun now!

That is all for now! Hope you have a wonderful monday! Only 10 days until Thanksgiving!!!!!!

Occupation: Stay at Home Mom

2007-11-07T04:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was at the chiropractor and I was filling out all the papers. One question asked what your occupation was (this was the first time I was asked this since I had Owen). It was kind of fun for me to put stay at home mom since this has always been what I wanted to do.

When the chiropractor was working on my back she said, "So I see you have a bachelors. And you are a stay at home mom?"
I was not really sure how to take the comment. She did not say it in a rude way but just a sincere way of asking.

Some days I wonder what am I really doing? I sit and play on the floor and make funny noises half the day, clean dirty buns, sing silly songs, wash lots more clothes (with lots of spit up stains) and have a baby latched on to my breasts for three hours a day. BUT I also get to be there for all of Owen's firsts. I get to be there when he wakes up from naps and cannot stop smiling. I get to lay on the floor and tickle him until he gets the hiccups because he is laughing so hard. I have a constant companion to talk to all day (now I do not feel so insane for talking to myself). The most important thing though is that, Lord willing, I am helping raise the next generation of Christians. I get to daily disciple my son. What I am praying is that Owen will be a man who honors God with his life. How amazing it is to think that God has given me one of the most important jobs in the world. I can proudly say that I am a stay at home mom!

Alone Time

2007-11-05T05:51:00.000-08:00

This is my first blog post ever (obviously). Just a few disclaimers before I actually get started....
1. I was not an english major. My Bible profs could care less if we spelled correctly or used the right punctuation. I have not had grammer since 8th grade and you will be able to tell. :)
2. I do not claim to be a writer. This is the one reason that I have not started a blog yet. I just write what I think.
Now that is all over with!

Don't get me wrong, I love being a mom (that is probably what the majority of the posts will be on) but I LOVE ALONE TIME!! Jay and I figured out early on in marriage that we both needed time alone every week. Now with Owen alone time looks much different.

I am so thankful that we have a sleeper! Owen goes to bed between 7:30 - 8:00 pm and gets up at 7:00 to eat and then goes back to sleep until 9:00. When I actually have the energy I stay up and I get my alone time. My day goes so much better when I have this hour by myself. I love sipping coffee and doing devotions or checking blogs! I know that you who have numerous kids are laughing now because this will not last but for now it is my time.

This blog is going to be made mainly for friends and family who are out of town so that they can see pictures of Owen growing up (have not yet figured out how to get pics up). It is probably going to be more of a photo journal and every once in a while thoughts on what I am reading or what God is doing in my life. Stay tuned for more!! I have about 45 minutes more of alone time so I am out!