Keeping up with the Jones'

2009-08-27T22:00:00.001+01:00

Hey!

I've moved.

Go to http://www.dellielou.blogspot.com/

for all the latest about life with the Joneses.

See ya there x

How cute is this?!?

2008-04-10T19:58:00.001+01:00

Watch it a few times and be sure to giggle!

So long, farewell, auf weidersehn, good bye!

2007-11-23T14:41:00.000Z

Okay, so I have come to a decision... I've bordered on doing this a few times but this time it is final. It all started yesterday when I did a monster post about everything we've been up to while I was having a bloggy break, I took photos and everything showing what we've done. My intention in this was to share with my friends our achievements, as we all do frequently in bloggy land. It was then brought to my attention that...

1. the security risks invovled with showing that much detail of our personal lives. I'm quite naive and trusting and assume its only lovely people reading this, but lately we have been stung in the big bad world via the glorious internet and quite frankly its now scared us.

2. Also, I have been doubting everything I'm writing, worrying how people are going to take my posts, misreading my intentions.

Quite frankly, this upset me, I have loved doing my blog, but there is absolutley no point doing this if I am censoring what I write, and holding back, worrying what other people will think. My main love for doing this blog was to record the lovely things in our lives and retain these memories. So I have decided that I am going to concentrate on doing my scrapbook because that will serve the same purpose, to create something beautiful to remember and share with whoever I choose. I am sad because I have met so many lovely people, who I consider friends, even though I have never met them, by doing this, but I will still check their blogs and leave the occasional comment to say hi!

So anyway, loads of love, Del x

Ha ha ha... choooo!!!!

2007-11-02T12:43:00.000Z

Okay, so I haven't got anything to say other than ... "I have man flu!"

I'll hopefully be back with another post when my nose stops running long enough for me to be able to type something of any substance.

See ya :o((

He, he, he, he!!

2007-10-29T07:37:00.000Z

Have you ever noticed a theme in your day like God is trying to tell you something specific? But with me, He has to tell me a couple of times for me to say "ah ha?"

Thursday last week I read...

In the midst of it... a post entitled sense of humour!
Laurel Wreath... a really funny you tube video by Chonda Pierce which made me weak!
LPM Blog... a funny post entitled "he called it spitttle"

I still not really sure what God was trying to tell me but I think it was along the lines of "Keep laughing girly!" We have been complemented many times by visitors that our house is a happy house and I do try to aspire to that, only recently i seem to have lost sight of that wandering round the house doing my jobs like a great big grump. This is probably cos I'm shattered, feeling huge, and slightly sick, having to cook which I really don't feel like doing, refereeing world war III, mountaineering massive piles of washing, trying to find a pair of socks that match for my hubby who insists he hasn't got ANY socks... get the idea, but do you know what, despite all that madness I wouldn't have it any other way (apart from the washing! - A maid would be nice!) But I'm gonna try to stay sane amidst all of the chaos and focus on the lovely things in my house and keep on laughing, enjoying every day with the precious people in my life, these little people make me laugh more than anyone else with their cute little ways. The same day I read this from Cardiff Central by Charity...

"The fact is, this time in my life is for action. I don't have a choice. I have a husband and 2 sweet girls to look after. Surely God is pleased with my efforts, as I call on Him in the midst of washing dishes or changing nappies. One day I'm sure that I will be able to have uninterrupted quiet times again. And I will probably miss the interruptions dearly."

I have always said that "God has a great sense of humour" and so often we beat ourselves up thinking we should be following these pious routines of spending time with him and if we don't we will be on the receiving end of His wrath... and yet God chose to simply make me laugh, He gently used the people who influence me just to say "CHILL!"

So I'm starting the half term holidays with a different attitude, the sun is shining, there's petrol in the car so I'm getting out with my gorgeous boys and we're gonna have lots of laughs ;o))

'Super glue' will truly fix EVERYTHING - Part deux

2007-10-28T06:56:00.000Z

Its official I am banning me and my Mum's household from EVER booking tickets for anything nice. You see we don't go out much - "altogether now... aaaaah!" - neither does my Mum and Dad. Last time they had tickets to go to a really special concert Luke hurt his lip and ended going to casualty, so we trundled on without them and managed to sort out Josh etc. while they were out having a lovely time, not that I'm bitter! Anyway, we booked tickets for Luke to go and see the Monster Truck show in the Millenium Stadium and he and my Dad were SO excited!

****WARNING... 'Jones incident' to follow, please turn away if you are squeemish!****

So by now you know the drill... the house is mad, getting tea, tidying, getting Pete ready to go to work etc etc. and we had this lovely moment of serenity the boys were eating their tea so me and Pete were sat in the living room, when we heard BANG, BANG, AAAAAAAAH!!!!

I still don't want to think about that noise and what body parts made it! But it turns out Josh was carrying his little wooden stool down the hallway on a mission when he tripped and his mouth fell onto the wood... and yes you've guessed it, just like Luke... blood everywhere with a hole on the inside and the outside of his lip... GREAT! Here we go again!

But it wasn't as simple as all that, my Mum and Dad were on their way over cos I was supposed to be taking them to the stadium, so we frantically worked out the logistics of who was doing what, not an easy task.

But in the end the boys went off to their show and had an amazing time, Josh went to hospital but thankfully it wasn't as bad as Luke's. He's cut the inside of his mouth, and the outside but they didn't meet in the middle, so that's ok then! So no glue was required, dare I say it... THIS TIME! He's fine, he lisps when he talks a little more than normal which is SO cute and every now and then he cries out, but he's being a brave little soldier. Me on the other hand, once I'd finished driving about a hundred miles around the country and got home, ended up cying like a baby! I was SO tired, stressed and had WAY too many hormones floating around, but anyway, another 'Jones incident' survived!! In the mean time you'd think we would not be booking any tickets to go ANYWHERE, just look at our track record...

Our engagement... Pete hospital - operation.
Our wedding... Pete hospital - thumb sown back on.
Mum and Dad's holiday - Pete hospital, suspected meningitis.
Tim's stag night - Pete hospital, suspected broken foot.
Mum and Dad concert - Luke hospital.
Luke and Dad concert - Josh hospital.

To name just a few! And do you know what...? We booked yesterday to go on holiday...Uh oh!!!

Just for a laugh...

2007-10-24T15:25:00.000+01:00

I saw this in my magazine I was reading and I thought it is sadly getting relevent to me. It is a list of things to do in the decade before you turn 40. Okay so forty seems a LONG way off, but 30 isn't! Anyway, here's the list...

1. Watch the following films... Little Miss Sunshine, Mr Smith Goes to Washington, Good Will Hunting, and Shawshank Redemption - No problem with that.

2. Write a novel - Kind of started something... we'll see!

3. Learn a musical instrument - DONE

4. Start the next decade with no fears - I am definitely getting better with spiders, aren't I Nat?

5. Learn to knit - I think I'll have to ask Charity or Sarah from "In the midst of it" for this one!

6. Learn a language - with Luke's help I know a few words of welsh (how bad is that? Being taught by your 5 year old son) Although I can sing "Diolch Jesu" ("thank you Jesus") pretty competently now!

7. Get your eyes lasered - someone once told me you can smell your eyes burning while they do it - NO THANKS!!

8. Fill in the gaps, read any classics you've missed out on and learn any British history you don't know - That could take till I'm 80!

9. Dye your hair - Okay that's 'doable' especially as Meems discovered my 1st grey hair... yeah thanks mate!

10. Spend a whole summer abroad - something I've never considered, but it sounds lovely!

11. Have a brazilian - eeek!!

12. Apologise to someone you hurt ages ago - I have to think about this one.

13. Do a friend audit - It says to cut out friends that bring you down, not possible, friends are friends, we can never have too many!

14. Research your family tree - could be interesting.

15. Get out of debt once and for all - paying off the mortgage would be nice!

16. Go through all your photos - I SO need to do this and I'm gonna add to this... SCRAPBOOK them... I'll get a card off the Queen before I finish this!

17. Paint a picture, frame it and hang it on your wall - possibly possible, if I can find the time!

18. Read the entire Narnia series by CS Lewis to your children - beats Harry Potter any day!

19. Do and extreme declutter - I have to do this about every 6 months anyway!

20. Learn to do one magic trick really well - I do have one little trick up my sleeve!

21. Start blog - how efficient am I?

22. Do something for charity - I'm up for this, any ideas anyone?

23. Get a grown up jewellry collection - proper diamonds, pearls, platinum... If I must? ;o))

24. Go camping with your family - persuading Pete to give up his bed could be a problem!

25. Experience zero gravity - this costs £3000! I'll keep my feet on the ground thanks, I don't even like rollercoasters!

26. Complete a cryptic crossword - with Dad's help.... maybe!

27. Run a marathon - I've always dreamt of doing this believe it or not! At the moment that is a LONG time away but never say never, perhaps start with the race for life (5miles!)

28. Learn to fly - sounds like fun, but could be problematic for the same reasons as no. 25, althought I'd love to paraglide!

29. Eat truffles on toast - I'm up for it if they're talking about chocolate ones, not those stupidly expensive mushroom things!

30. Learn to dance properly - the suggestions are salsa, waltz etc. But I'd be happy to be ably to do the "dirty dancing" last dance because "Nobody puts Baby in a corner!"

Anyway, I'm sure there are loads more, got any ideas? If you have consider yourself tagged!!

Happy Birthday Babe!

2007-10-20T08:13:00.001+01:00

At last!

Its been 2 LONG months since I turned the dreaded year older than you and I've been longing for your day to come around REAL fast so that I can finally say that we're the same age again and you can STOP SAYING THAT I'M OLD! There's another reason too. You spoilt me on my birthday so now its my turn! So for all those reasons (and cos your working on Monday!) we're celebrating your birthday early.

So anyway, happy birthday babes! Thank you for being the most fantastic husband and truly my best friend. When you came into my life 15 years ago (I know!!) I've never looked back. I love who you are, that you're the same no matter whose company you keep, I love the way you smile, the way you know just by what socks I'm wearing what mood I'm in and the fact that I need a cwtch, the fact that I know what your going to say next, I love that we share our faith, I love how hard you work for us and most importantly that you've given me our most precious little people Luke, Josh and not forgetting Lucy! I love that I know you're always gonna be there by my side even after all our little people have flown the nest!

So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY sweetie, you deserve the best day ever, we love you, we are so blessed and thank God you are in our lives!

Your Dels, Luke and Josh (and a boot from little Lucy!) xxxx

Thanks Beth!!

2007-10-15T19:03:00.000+01:00

Loving my new top, thanks chick!

P.S. Get well soon Nat! Sorry you're feeling poorly,

get your hubby to give you lots of tlc tomorrow!

Our beautiful boys!

2007-10-11T18:31:00.000+01:00

David Beckham eat your heart out!

Here comes Jonesy!

How cute? Don't you just love them the most when they're asleep!

My little monkeys!

2007-10-04T13:16:00.001+01:00

This advert disturbed me at first trying to find the link between chocolate and gorillas playing the drums (all I could come up with is I would look like one of these if I went too long without chocolate!) The boys just love this advert and I have to keep calling it up on youtube all the time, for Luke cos he loves the drums and for Josh cos he loves monkeys. Either way its starting to do my head in - so I thought I'd share it - I'm nice like that!

GLAD!

2007-09-30T09:16:00.000+01:00

Hellooooo!
I really should be catching up on some sleep but I'm buzzing and feeling REALLY happy!
My tummy has got that lovely butterflies feeling in it, like I'm excited, but I'm not really, I'm just content, happy with my lot, glad its Sunday, glad I'm saved, glad I'm married, glad I'm a Mum, glad I've got a girl... and I could go on!
Really hope your feeling happy on this Sunday ;0))

"Blessed better than I deserve!"

2007-09-27T06:56:00.000+01:00

This post is courtesy of Greg @ http://gracesrq.com/blog/ otherwise known as Heather's Dad!
I've been thinking a lot about this sort of thing lately but he has put it far more eloquently than I could...I as blown away by this post because we know what Heather is going through at the moment with her chemo etc. So this post, to me, is even more special, because for a father to watch his daughter go through such a difficult time and come out with this attitude is a testiment to God's strength and grace... so I pinched it! Hope you don't mind, Greg!

It’s Not Always What It Seems
I’m coming to the place in my life where I have to accept reality. I know that may sound kind of dramatic, especially for a pastor. Most people if asked, would tell you that they desire the perfect life. You know, a spouse, two and a half children, nice home, good job, secure future, enough money to be comfortable, the expected speech. But usually in spite of what they may already have, many still feel the need for more.Recently I have been reminded by many different confirming witnesses in my life to be thankful. To guard my heart and filter my sight according to “Reality and Truth”. I am aware that every individual’s life is just that, individual. We may share in the same type of life experiences, but they are all personally unique. I think it’s called perspective. A person needs to make a wise choice in this matter of perspective. Half empty or half full. Totally dark, or almost dawn. Blessed, or forsaken? How do we approach our circumstances and life situations? It makes all the difference. OR, should I say confidence and trust in God makes all the difference in the world.
I am often asked by people “How are You Doing?” My response usually catches people off guard; “Better Then I deserve!
Begin to practice the art of humble thanksgiving, to an amazingly loving Heavenly Father,It will change your reality!
Because of Grace
Greg

100th post!!

2007-09-26T19:02:00.001+01:00

What better way to celebrate my 100 posts than to share this with you...

We've had our scan and thank the Lord everything is ok. And guess what?

IT'S A GIRL!!!

Well, they think... she is as sure as can be, but for obvious reasons they can never be 100% with little girls. It's been a real rollercoaster today. After following the lives of Copeland and her family through the last week and seeing how gracious they are and how strong they are throughout the hardest of times, I've had a real dilema over what to pray for. I've been wanting to pray that "Lord whatever your will..." because deep down I was worried there would be something wrong. But then I was thinking surely I should pray for a healthy baby and for the "desires of my heart", so instead I've just been honest, doing a bit of straight talking with my Lord, He knows how I feel, so as I was lying there for 20 mins while she said nothing, measuring and checking everything and I was getting increasingly anxious, in my heart i was singing "and my hope is in You, and all I want to do is to know you more Jesus". And now I feel like my heart's going to explode! My boys are the eyes in my head, so to speak, I wouldn't change them for the world, but its scriptural that one day they are going to be turning to their wives instead of their old Mum. Whereas little girls ALWAYS need their Mums! So our lives just feel complete... PRAISE GOD!

2007-09-26T18:56:00.000+01:00

I thought this was quite apt!

(Courtesy of Artistically Amy @ 160 Acre Woods)

Thoughtful!

2007-09-24T19:14:00.000+01:00

I'm feeling particularly thoughtful today, not down or stressed, just thoughtful (and no it's not hurting!) Our services over the weekend really spoke to me, our visiting preacher spoke SO much sense and whether it was because we didn't have the boys with us, but I managed to really listen and take it in and EVEN remember it, which is a miracle in itself at the moment with pregnancy fog!

One of the things he was talking about was time, and I bet all my close friends reading this will be smiling right now cos... well lets face it I'm not the best time keeper, now I blame it on the boys but i was worse before we had them! But talking about time really struck a chord because increasingly I am seeing my days fly by without achieving very much, mainly because little boys are the biggest distraction EVER and when Josh is asleep I tend to sleep too, and before I know it its time to pick Luke up and so the cycle begins all over again. So I've been trying hard not to waste time, i.e. no sitting around watching pointless daytime telly, and when I put Josh to sleep I've been using that time to sit and have some quiet time and read my Bible, surley that's not a waste of time! I've been really enjoying it and its been having the same revitlising effect that a sleep would have, God will supply our every need and in my case its more often than not REST! So that's been really positive this week. I've even defrosted my freezer, and cleaned my car out.... I KNOW!

Anyway, not wanting to waste too much time at the computer this post has taken me 3 days to do! So its now wednesday, and SCAN DAY! I have real mixed feelings about it. I love seeing the baby, it makes it all seem real. Also, I do love to know what it is, I find it hard to relate to the baby when its an "IT", I need to know if its my baby boy or my baby girl. Also, its the biggy scan where they check for problems, which is quite scary, but I know we are in God's hands, He's in control and we're trusting in Him! I am starting to get more excited now as all the pregnant woman I know are getting less and less as they are having they're babies... I've had a text over night to say my friend has had a baby in under 2 hours... WOW!!! I don't know details yet but everything is fine and she'll be out in time to pick her little boy up from school... I pray that is what God has in store for me!!!

So I'll post later to let you know how we got on xxx

'Super glue' will truly fix EVERYTHING!!

2007-09-20T22:45:00.000+01:00

Ok, so it all started with my next door neighbour bursting through our door with Luke in her arms and blood all over his face!.... yeah, doesn't make for a relaxing evening!

Pete was on his way out the door to work, the house was like a tornado (otherwise known as 2 young boys!) had hit EVERY room in our house and this was the only night that my parents were out at a concert and my in laws were in a prayer meeting, all uncontactable (if that is even a word?)

So Pete took Luke directly to A&E while I packed Josh off to our great friends for a wonderful evening of sausage and chips, pringles and childrens telly (and that was all just for Tim!) but he had a great night and it was such a relief knowing he was enjoying himself... thanks guys, you're stars!

Poor Luke had fallen/jumped (??) off a bunk bed onto an air hockey table and his face broke his fall. Update... Actually he have now discovered, since he can now talk a bit better, that he thought he was spiderman and jumped from the air hockey table UP to the top bunk, but realised he can't fly and colloided with the frame of the bed! His teeth didn't look in the right position and he had obviously bitten through his lip, but through the oodles of blood that was all we could tell. When I got to A&E Luke was a lot calmer, the bleeding had subsided, and Pete was perfectly in control of the situation, we just click into our roles when we need to. The boys are always SO happy with their Dad that I know they're in good hands, meanwhile I run around making sure I have every little thing necessary to cover every eventuallity for everyone of us. Somehow being busy makes it easier to cope with, although when I'm in this situation nothing feels right. If I'm with Luke in hospital that's great but I'm still concerned over what needs to be done, who needs to be contacted, is Josh ok etc etc etc, but if I'm doing all that I feel like I should be with Luke giving him huge hugs! So I tried to do everything as quick as possible so I could concentrate my time on Luke, content that everything else is sorted. Still Luke was braver than all of us. We ended up having to see a maxofacial surgeon because his teeth came through to his face... sorry those of you who are squeemish! But a bit of glue on the front of his face holding the cut together, was all that was required. Even though his teeth (and they are such gorgeous little teeth!) might have moved because they are still his milk teeth so they should be fine, and the cut inside his mouth will heal itself...aren't our bodies created amazingly! So he's been sent home with Calpol, antibiotics and a swollen lip! Pete's gone back to work now, and all is quiet. Phew!!

So for the next few days he's been told not to wash his face, clean his teeth, eat soft stuff (jelly and ice cream anyone?) he shouldn't do much or talk too much, so plenty of cuddles in front of the telly, so its not all bad ;o)

Copeland Fair Farley

2007-09-20T06:29:00.000+01:00

Sorry for not posting I've been really busy doing erm... well... well, you know how it is! Anyway, I was gonna post last night but I ended up reading this and I wanted to share it with you.

I've come accross this blog thanks to Sarah at "In the Midst of It" and its about a family who gave birth to a little girl yesterday...

"She came to us at 1:00 PM today and she weighs 4 pounds. She is 17 inches long and the most beautiful thing in the world."

But Copeland Fair Farley has Trisomy 18 so they don't know how many precious moments they'll have with their beautiful baby. Their every move is being documented on their blog and the fact that Copeland is still with them on day two is a miracle in itself. Their faith and their strength during this time is incredible and has really inspired me, what sounds like a depressing story isn't like that at all, they are full of hope and faith in God's ultimate plan for Copeland and are grateful for her every breath.

Read more here http://conorbootheandgirls.blogspot.com/

I'm sure you will feel the same and I know these beautiful people will appreciate all our prayers and comments.

How true?

2007-09-14T07:08:00.001+01:00

I also read...
"If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?" - Milton Berle

Thanks to Stephanie via Charity - this really made me smile at 6am!

Little darlings!

2007-09-13T13:19:00.000+01:00

I think every Mum in the world at some point is at the end of her teather with her children. Yesterday my evening was a nightmare! For some STUPID reason I'm struggling sleeping a bit at the moment so I was a bit tired aswell-NOT GOOD! Pete went to work, tea cooked, dishes not done, but hey... only an hour or so and it would be bedtime. It was about 6.30, Luke had been swimming and was really tired and was complaining of a bad tummy. Josh had been in pants all day so I was very aware of that and trying to get him to do a wee before he decided to suprise me himself. Luke's tummy seemed to be getting worse, and he was asking for lots of cuddles, he obviously was not right, so I persuaded him to go into the bathroom, don't worry I'll spare you the details! In the meantime, I thought I would tackle Josh, he does not want to be in a nappy at the moment, so I was chasing him around knowing he was like a little time bomb, about to explode any minute. Luke was calling me so I went to see him and he was SO red, sweating, asking for his puffer, and almost in tears cos his tummy was hurting and told me that a little girl in school 'pooed her pants' today - please Lord, please don't let him have a tummy bug!!! Anyway, I start frantically looking for the bucket just incase he needed that too, when I did find it Josh was convinced he had to get in it! So pulling him away caused riotous screaming from my semi naked 2 year old, and more cries from Luke... AAAAAAHHH!!!!

Anyway, I kept a cool head, sorted out Luke who was still showing no signs of a tummy bug... phew!and got Josh dressed and nappied - phew! and we all sat down and had a cuddle watching television, still feeling quite stressed and hard done by, I started watching Supernanny. Oh my Lord, this poor woman had 4 REALLY unruly children, and husband who was constantly out at the footie, and incapable of any disciplining, and as I watched I held my children a little bit tighter. When bedtime came on the programme the poor woman had to physically fight with all of them to get them to stay in bed and had resorted to putting locks on their doors!

Anyway, my little darlings, were looking quite sleepy so I out them into bed. Josh first, cwtched him in, gave him all his mandatory teddies, milk, "Courtney's blanket", pressed his little teddy that reads a prayer "Now I lay me down to sleep... untill morning light. Amen." Josh looked at me and said SO sweetly "AMEN". I said "love you sweetie, night night" and he said "love you pretty Mummy!" Awwww!

Now Luke, he told me his tummy was now feeling "brilliant" -Thank you Lord! - and we had our normal little funny chat, he asked me could we do cooking when he comes home from school tomorrow, gave me a cuddle, told me he loved me "this much... up to a hundred planets and back again!" and he cwtched up to monkey and off to sleep, without his normal story and prayer.

I went back into the living room, the commercial break was only just finished and this poor woman was still fighting with her children to get them to bed!! How blessed did I feel, I settled down to watch the rest of the programme, half expecting a little boy to get out of bed and come and join me again, but loving the peace and quiet, I was joined by someone... an enormous spider!
There goes my peace and quiet!!

I'M BACK!!!

2007-09-10T19:06:00.000+01:00

Hello! I take it back about talktalk cos as I sit here and type I am currently extremely grateful for talktalk's lack of efficiency, that actually kept my broadband line active (yes I know, I could have been back sooner, but hey!), so yeah, here I am! I've enjoyed the break, but I was anxious to see what all my bloggy friends were doing!

Since I last properly posted, which has been AGES loads has happened so I think this situation calls for bullet points...(and i know that doesn't make for interesting reading but believe me I'm doing it for you cos otherwise it'd take forever!!

The boys had their birthday party, it went really well, they loved it. Josh, who is normally pretty quiet in public, refused to blow out his candles instead continued to serenade everyone there with happy birthday about 5 times! He was SOOO cute! Luke was a little darling and was thrilled beyond belief with his transformers skateboard off his Auntie Jane.

We had a lovely bank holiday weekend, Pete had a long weekend off and we really enjoyed being out and about, especially the balloon festival on sunday night. I LOVE fireworks, being out with the men in my life, being out with my friends and to top it all a bag of chips in the wrapper with lots of salt and vinegar... what more could a girl want?

It's Jazz time... Jazz in the Park was the following weekend and we were gutted Pete had to work but me and the boys still tried to make the most of it, although we really missed him.

Luke started school, and I have to say it was a lot easier than last year, none of the emotion I experienced last year. He was so excited and went off looking all shiny and grown up :0( But I was really proud of him.

We've had some great times in church, awesome times of worship, we've been really gelling as a worship group and its been fantastic!

I'm now 17 weeks pregnant! And I'm starting to feel better than I was, YEAY!!! I think its mainly cos I've past my first trimester but hugely helped by Aimee's emergency purchase of preggy pops for me (thanks chick!) and copious amounts of milk teeth sweeties from the shop down the road... I can't explain it but for morning sickness they rock! (Thanks for all your suggestions though, I did try every one!)

Anyway, this hasn't been the fantastic return post that was in my head, its just a brief summary of what we've been up to and I'm shattered now, this post has taken me about 5 hours to complete, I think I'm losing my touch or I'm out of practice! Anyway, I'll be back in the morning hopefully with some funny anecdotes or thought provoking material... or a pretty picture of my boys!

Night night, God Bless x

End of an era!

2007-08-31T18:59:00.000+01:00

Okay, so its always been a story relationship, we've had many a cross words, but many good times too. In fact, now it's all over, I'm really missing my interactions, my time spent in their company. If I wasn't so stormy, so impatient, if they were'nt so careless, so lacking in wisdom perhaps it would all be ok, but is simply wasn't meant to be. In the meantime I just have to wait... and start again!

So sorry talktalk, its been good, its been bad, very bad, I guess its time we move on... I'll be back when I sort out someone else, sorry it may be a while!!

Forget me!

2007-08-23T15:53:00.001+01:00

Okay, just had a bit of a reality check... I put out an SOS call earlier to my Mum and Dad to have the boys because I felt so sick and tired, I was feeling really bad and didn't feel it was fair on them to have such a grumpy Mum! Anyway they were happily packed off and they didn't look back!

So after an afternoon of relative peace and quiet and feeling a little bit more like myself I sat down to catch up on some blogs I follow, hence my point...

I'm sure you know by now the story of Heather, go here to see her latest post... http://www.especiallyheather.com/2007/08/23/the-nights-are-the-worst/
Here I am celebrating this beautiful thing going on inside me, and yes its hard when you have 2 children to think of as well, and I know how all-encompassing nausea can be... BUT... Heather's body is fighting quite literally the fight of her life, her body is reacting badly to the chemo therapy causing this unspeakable nausea and she is still a wife and a Mom not just a cancer sufferer. There must be little people in that household who are struggling to understand too, and yet she stays so positive her faith is AMAZING and often her posts put a bit of persepctive into my life. So I want to say, forget about me, TODAY PLEASE PRAY FOR HEATHER THAT HER SICKNESS WILL GO, THAT HER BODY WILL REACT POSITIVELY TO THIS TREATMENT AND SHE WILL FEEL BETTER. Thanks x

PS. GO BETH!!! Keep smiling girly! God's gotta big plan for you xxx

What's going on?

2007-08-23T03:51:00.000+01:00

Okay soo its 03:51 in the morning and I'm awake, WHY???
I could sleep all day, every day, but at the moment... nothing!
I've been on the setee, in bed, read my book and back on the setee and i'm still awake.
I've tried ringing Pete, cos he's nights, listening to his voice normally relaxes me but he's really busy and couldn't talk... so here I am!
The worst thing is I know tomorrow I'm so gonna pay for this!
Anyway, just noticed they are having a Neighbours night on BBC3, yey!
So I'm gonna go ;0)

Calling all Mums (or Moms)

2007-08-21T17:23:00.000+01:00

Hello to all my fellow Mums out there, wherever you are, I'm calling on your help...

I need any advice possible for anti morning sickness cures. I'm trying so hard to be positive because I truly don't want to complain over this amazing blessing we've been given, and I know its a sign of a healthy pregnancy and I am TRULY grateful for that, but I feel SO yucky, and SO tired. I want to enjoy my time with the boys before Luke goes back to school but I'm really struggling just to get them dressed in the morning.

So please ANY suggestions will be gratefully received I will try ANYTHING (apart from fish cos that would just turn things a bit nasty due to my anaphalaxis reaction!).... thank you girlies!!

My lovely Luke!

2007-08-20T08:49:00.000+01:00

Since when is my baby 5, I can't believe it!

You were our little suprise, we got married in July 2001 and by the October we discovered you were going to be joining us in August 2002! Yet you were the best thing ever to happen to me and your Dad. I remember after a relatively normal birth saying hello to you and loving every fibre in your tiny body. I remember passing you to your Daddy, he nervously held you and yet you looked at him like you already knew him, and his heart melted. Your Nanny was there when you came into this world and I know it was one of her most memorable moments. Our first night in hospital, I could not sleep. All I could do was look at you through the perspex cot and your eyes too, were transfixed on me, and our relationship began. Me and your Dad couldn't wait to get you home, so much so, we didn't even wait for you to be bathed in hospital, and proclaimed we'd do it at home, so we confidently packed your things and off we went. At home faced with a tiny slippery body, enough bath products to open a salon we clumsily bathed you for the first time. I think we were wetter than you! And so the fun began.

As a baby you were perfect doing everything when and how the books said. You were a content, cwtchy baby, and soon really smiley too. I used to love dressing you up in my favourite outfits because you looked gorgeous in everything, you still do! All our family and friends became smitten with you too, and you inherited loads of surrogate Auties and Uncles who love you with all their heart. You have always been a cheeky little chappy, and from the very beginning you have idolised your Daddy. Your face when he walks into the room are moments my heart will always treasure. Anything he does you take an interest in, since you were toddling you've always loved tools, prefering to look at the Screwfix magazine to a first words book, walking down the aisles in B&Q is like being in a sweet shop and you can name every tool you see. Ever since I can remember you have picked up the drum sticks and had a bash, and this has progressed so much, your Daddy proudly looks on as you confidently hold a 4/4 beat, and he can't wait till that day when you are better than him on the drums, and we know that day will come!

You are everyone's big brother, you've taken to this role with such ease and we are so grateful for how you protect and help with your little brother, he's so blessed to have you in his life and we know you will show the same amount of love to the new baby too.

Reading to you your bedtime stories is always a treat as you soak in the Bible stories we teach you, you store up these treasure in your heart and come out with little comments and prove to us that you've been listening all this time. You love a sunday, and can't wait to get to church and equally the people there can't wait to see you either, as you provide much entertainment for them! We pray your simple faith will remain in your heart and grow into a passion that will not be extinquished.

You have an adorable nature, so content and happy, so kind and generous, so loving, so polite, so full of fun, and yet so obedient and full of integrity. Those gorgeous deep brown eyes melt my heart every day and me and your dad couldn't be prouder of you and we cannot wait to see what a lovely man you will grow into.

All my love as always,

Mum xxx

My beautiful Josh!

2007-08-18T06:23:00.000+01:00

Josh,

From the moment you were conceived, boy, did we know it! Every day of my pregnancy I was sick (although now that seems to be more about me than you!) It wasn't a straight forward pregnancy, with recurrent blood tests and the inevitable trip to the hospital "just in case!" almost EVERY week! I was thrilled to be pregnant although filled with mixed emotions, how could I love another little body like I love your big brother. My heart was totally full of love for your brother, was there enough room to love another as much? Then August 18th 2005 I was induced and again it wasn't straight forward. Throughout the birth you were being monitored and your heartbeat was getting weaker and weaker, we could physically hear you slipping away. In the last moments the midwife called for the obstetrician to intervene and every second counted. I was told to push, and I did, I so did, but you were still fading and we were desperately longing to hear another "beep", as the time was getting longer and longer between each one it seemed like hours were passing, in reality it was probably seconds. As the obstetrician helped me, this was it, it was now, or I was heading for the operating theatre. As I looked into your Dad's eyes I was longing for him to do something, to help me but as I looked at him I saw reflected the same fear that I felt, in his teary eyes he longed for me to push, and to hear one more "beep". This was it, it was up to me now and within seconds you were in my arms, 7lb 2! And that moment we knew, our fears of not being able to love you enough totally vanished as we realised how desperately we wanted you, and now you were here, you are a part of us, part of our family and our hearts exploded with love for you. Soon we had the privilege of introducing you to your big brother. He had waited so long to meet you, every day he would hold my belly and say "Josh kicked me then!" He was smiling from ear to ear as he met you and his heart was filled with a love and a protection for you on that day that has never faded, and your friendship began. Your first night I couldn't take my eyes off you, your perfect complexion, your gorgeous fluffy hair, you were so little, your little rosebud lips were adorable.

The following morning, we waited anxiously to be discharged. I knew you were perfect, I just had to prove it to the paediatricion. As they came along did all the tests, all great, then checked your heart, and again, and again, with worried looks back and for to each other they confirmed they needed a second opinion... what? My heart was filled with so so much fear, how can something so beautiful be defective? As they disappeared to get their senior I cwtched you and cwtched you. The radio continued unnoticed, then I heard the chorus by James Blunt "Your beautiful, your beautiful..." and with tears streaming I sang this song to you, and praying over you. Did I ring your Dad? I knew Luke had been quite unsettled so they were having a bit of special time together, I didn't want to disturb that and worry them unnecessarily, and besides it was all happening so fast, by the time they got here everythng could be alright. Before long we were taken to the special baby unit. And I may as well have been on Mars. Having been in this room with your cousin Charlotte 3 years ago when she was desperately clinging to life, what was I doing here now with you? They performed tests on you, attaching you to machines that seemed to dwarf your tiny body, there did seem to be a problem with your heart and required a scan. Again off they went, conversations between themselves, putting plans in place for you, all the time I was singing chorus' over you, praying God would intervene. In His way he did, at one point it didn't look like he could have the scan today and I would have to wait, this would mena staying in hospital, missing Luke's birthday, it wasn't an option. The we heard there were students in the building who would like to see a heart scan so would I be available to have it done now, stupid question, I'm not going anywhere? So we were taken to a pokey room, you, me, the best heart surgeon in Wales and his understudies. He started scanning your little body and he was narrating the process to the students, this provided so much comfort watching the miracle of your creation in the minutest of detail and yet every part of it vitally important. And he confirmed what I knew deep down, that you were perfect. The process of birth makes things happen to your heart and yours was a little delayed, you must have inherited punctuality off me! With this confirmed we were free to go home in time to celebrate your brothers 3rd birthday, what a present for him! I could ask why we had to go through all this but I know one thing, all those doubts we had were totally dispelled when we risked loosing you, we knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that you were part of us and we wanted and needed you in our lives, and we've never looked back!

As its your second birthday, I look back at your short life and I could write a book about your adventures, your birth being the first chapter. Your brother was a text book baby, so serene, so obedient, so content. Josh... totally different story, your first few weeks we battled with feeding you, with collic, with what seemed like constant crying... but then you started to settle and your personality started to emerge. As a baby you didn't get much comfort from affection, and I struggled with that, was it my fault have I not given you enough affection? Were my doubts right? But even as I type this you are climbing all over me demanding a cwtch and it remains one of my proudest achievements, its like you learnt to love us, you learnt to receive our love, to accept it, to take comfort from it and to give it back by the bucket load.

Life with 2 little boys has been a challenge, possible the hardest thing I've had to do, juggling the practical things that need to be done with the demands of little people and all their unpredictability! You have been a little live wire, the saying "where there's a will, there's a way" is so apt. In your short life you have shown a determination to be mischievous. Despite all the security measures in place you still managed to get hold of a washing tablet and fill us with the fear that you've swallowed some (you actually didn't, but it stressed us out enough finding that out!) the words from NHS Direct "well actually its not THAT toxic", didn't really help... and these stories could go on and on!

You are such a little darling, although you insist you're "Daddy's boy" you always turn to your Mum when you're hurt or want a cwtch, or if its bedtime. Your Daddy and Luke are smitten too. I've watched your Daddy's love for you grow, and to see you all fighting, tickling, screaming, laughing, I know he adores these precious times. You follow them around and try to emulate them, this could never be a bad thing! Your brother adores you too, despite your normal brotherly quarrels, you fall out but within seconds you're cuddling, saying sorry (thorry Lulu!) and kissing each other better. You listen to him, he takes you and tucks you into bed. He leads you if we're out, watching you and if you do something he's concerned about he's tell me and make sure your safe.

Joshua, I could keep on telling stories about you all day, but in a nutshell, you are our little Joshy, your such a happy, cheeky chappy, detemined and yet gentle, goregeous yet wicked, independent and yet so loving, sometimes shy, sometimes confident, obedient and yet wild! We love your cute lisp, the way you say (20 x a day) "Thorry Mummy", "Love you MUCH" (holding your arms out wide). Quoting a good friend ...

"every home needs a Joshy"

You have enriched all our lives and we thank God for blessing us with you. I know your relationship with your brother will go from strength to strength and your love for the new baby will be unending. You are our gorgeous Josh we pray you'll grow to be a happy, contented little man of God.

Love Mummy x

Raaaarrr!!

2007-08-08T08:23:00.000+01:00

Well actually its more like "Yawwwwnnn!" Because did you know that lions sleep up to 20 hours a day?

Okay so you've not got the wrong blog, I will explain...

We went to Bristol Zoo yesterday!!

Joy of joys, the silly builder was supposed to have finished a job for Pete on monday, so it meant Pete had to take a DAY OFF and to add to my excitment IT WAS MY BIRTHDAY!!!! How great is that?

So yeah, we packed a picnic and were all ready to leave by 8.00am! We had a lovely day. The boys loved it! We saw lions although they weren't that interested in seeing us! We loved the sea lions, the penguins and the monkeys. Luke was thrilled to find Nemo and Dory living in an anenonenomy, anenimony, aneninemonie... watch Finding Nemo to find that one out! There were some uncanny similarities between me at lunch time and the gorillas, the looked MEAN! But the baby gorilla was so cute! It was great being out together, it was sunny, not too hot... just perfect!

Anyway, I'm about to get my gorilla face on and tackle Talktalk... our home phone isn't working again! If my blog goes quiet for a while it might be because we are switching ISP's, but I will see what I can do! To all our friends best use Pete's moby for the moment, ta!

Only 196 days!!

2007-08-06T21:27:00.000+01:00

Wow! I just signed in to my blog, no real reason really, nothing pressing that I need to share, then I noticed my little ticker thing, that says 12 WEEKS!!!

Yey! I'm there! I've known we've been pregnant virtually straight away so to get to 12 weeks seemed like ages away. We couldn't even wait that long to tell people we'd told most people by about 8/9 weeks!

So yeah, that's it for today I'm just hoping that I will continue to get more energy and feel a bit better, I do already feel a bit more energised, thank goodness!

Scan date is he 14th August, so will update you with any news when we get it. In the meantime, keep thinking pink :o))

Okay, now go out and enjoy the sun people!!

F-R-I-E-N-D-S

2007-08-04T21:43:00.000+01:00

Aren't friends fantastic?

And I don't mean the program, although that has to be my all time favourite!

I wrote the last post earlier, again just getting something off my chest, trying to make sense of thoughts going on in my head before I have even been able to process them. I didn't even think about what comments I would receive, which is unusual, normally I can't wait to read your comments. Today, the comments I received just made me have that lovely warm feeling in my tummy, know what I mean? As Tim would say the feeling you get when you watch a Disney film (He's such a softie!).

Just to know that they are there, accepting me. I haven't got to do anything or be anyone, they are there.

And I thank God for them x

Neglectful x

2007-08-04T12:54:00.000+01:00

Things are a bit wierd at the moment. I'm not doing much at all and I'm not used to it!... Well saying that, I'm not doing much other than looking after 2 little whirlwinds, playing with them, loving them, teaching them, feeding them, making sure they are clean, dressed, I'm doing the washing, ironing, tidying up, cooking, cleaning, any shopping that might need doing, potty training Josh, fitting in naps (and plenty of them!), taking Luke to the dentist, having blood tests myself and all trying not to be sick!

We're not going out much and I'm not really sure why? The weather has been better, I've got the car but I'm not really doing much with it. I'm feeling pretty neglectful towards my friends, normally I try to pop in or meet up with them as we are all more or less all in the same boat. I think I'm being pretty selfish at the moment and I need to, just to get throught he day. Having Luke home is lovely, not doing the school run is fab but dealing with WWIII 20 times a day is challenging, and all the above needs to be done if I go out or not. And I just don't have the energy!

In my mind I'm trying to figure out how this is gonna work, how is another person gonna fit into these crrrrrazy days. If i do too much and try to be super Mum it all seems to end in melt down because there's way to many hormones floating around at the moment! But the words of my wonderfully wise husband echo in my head and heart (Yes I'm talking about Pete!) during a meltdown the other day he simply said "God wouldn't give us anything we can't handle!" So yes with His help, everything will be alright. I'm just chilling, not putting too much pressure on myself or on my body and enjoying my time with my beautiful boys, we go for walks, get all the toys out on the decking and let them chill out too and hopefully once my first trimester is over hopefully I will be a bit more energised AND LESS SICK!

So to all my friends out there who I owe a visit... I'm sorry, hope you understand, miss you lots and very soon we will catch up, promise!

BEWARE... pregnant woman!!

2007-08-04T12:27:00.000+01:00

Hi! Do you know what? I actually went out last night all on my own. My friend Sian invited me out to celebrate my birthday next week.

At first I was gonna take the boys but with my intollerence of any heat and if my food takes a while to come it is officially the END OF THE WORLD because I feel SO SO sick. So dealing with tired frustrated boys in a restaurant doesn't sound like much fun. But when Mum and Dad offered to babysit what is normally an easy decision... YES PLEASE!!!! became a "well I don't really know?" and that generally sums me up at the moment.

I would describe it as pregnant fog... know what I mean?

I am DANGEROUS, the fact that they are allowing me to look after little people at the moment is worrying let alone having another baby!

Some examples... paying in a shop i'm rumaging through my purse trying to find the right money and I have to stop and ask... how much was it again??? Getting ready to go out I put my hair scrunchy stuff under my arms as deodorant (so I've now got rather attractive curly underarm hair... ONLY JOKING!!!) I'm forgetting everything I should do. I can't decide where to go... Asda or Tescos???? It so hard. In the end my Mum stepped in and said " ADELE... WE ARE COMING OVER TO BABYSIT. END OF STORY!" It was such a relief. As a Mum sometimes you long for a bit of peace and quiet, but when given that option I longed to be with my boys and didn't particularly want to leave them... WHATS ALL THAT ABOUT?

Anyway, I went out, all the way to Cardiff, all by myself! ( I was a bit concerned should I be trusted driving at the moment!). But it was lovely, we went to TFI Fridays for some beloved Jack Daniels chicken ;o)))) We had a fab time, even if most of the time I talked about Pete or the boys, I just couldn't help it! I haven't been out with Sian in years so it was strange going out and comparing our lives now to then, she's so free and single, independant and loving it. And I'm expecting our 3rd child!! We'd never have guessed where our lives would have headed ten years ago (although I knew Pete would feature in mine somehow!)

It was lovely having some independance for a few hours, Sian really spoilt me, and it was great catching up. But it was also lovely to come home talk to my hubby (on the moby cos he's nights) and kiss my boys good night, and cwtch up in bed with my book... bliss!

Little Precious!

2007-08-02T09:04:00.000+01:00

Well Helloooo!!!

I've actually had to come inside now cos its raining again! So sorry for the bloggy break I've been trying to enjoy the weather. Anyway, was just thinking that there's not much to report, not much to say, we've been taking little walks to the park, chilling out in the garden etc. Then... Luke has just said something that brought tears to my eyes so I just had to share it.

He's been playing with his little friend alot because its been sunny and they have quite a fiery relationship! Anyway, he has just informed me that he told his friend when he was being naughty that...

"God can see you all the time, and he can always hear you!"

His friend disagreed with him and laughed at this and this left Luke quite concerned for his little friend... how precious?!! It's so lovely to see Luke translating in his little mind and making sense of what he is taught, in his world, away from church and sunday school. I again was full of love and pride for this gorgeous little man.

Anyway, gotta go, sorry its a quickie, will be back soon xxx

Note for Beth... Hey Chick, can you tell your Mum about this because I know its down to a lot of her hard work with Bubbles and I know she would be thrilled! x

New toons...

2007-07-26T12:08:00.000+01:00

Last week BooMama featured a review of a new CD she loves and also that the record company are having a prize giveaway... the new Monk & Neagle album which isn't available until September 18th. So I applied and I WON!! Considering the website was in America and we're here in little ol' Wales I was a bit dubious as to whether I would actually receive it. But yesterday the postie dropped a lovely padded brown envelope through the door - always a good thing! Anyway, to stop me rambling... I LOVE IT! I cranked up the volume cleaned the kitchen and the bathroom and it was even FUN! If like me you like Mercy Me, Third Day, Bebo Norman, Steven Curtis Chapman then I'm sure you'll love these. Some songs have, in my humble opinion, a bit of a Jack Johnson vibe which can only be a good thing!

Anyway, if you click on the album cover on the side it will take you to a website where you can hear some of their songs (and pre-order the album!) Listen especially to "Into Orbit" cos I love it and it is as physically impossible not to dance to this song as to not chew a fruit pastile or not to lick your lips if your eating a jam doughnut!

Get clicking away and have a listen and ENJOY!

May the force be with you...

2007-07-25T19:18:00.000+01:00

If you read the comments on my last post, they reminded me of this photo, so this is for Nat to prove, yes, my son is an honorary Jedi (if that's what you call them!)

See he's even got the moves!

This might explain it though... please don't laugh!

Daddy's boys!

2007-07-25T14:57:00.000+01:00

Pete's starting his shifts tonight and we all miss him when he's working, he works SO hard for us. I know he reads this when he's in work so these are for him...

No Daddy, You are NOT GOING TO WORK!!!

Look at my new pyjamas!

The picture of innocence (?)

There you go Daddy, hope you like these pics of us, hope you have a good shift, and don't forget our sweeties in the morning :o))

Love you lots, Luke and Josh xxxx

Shattered dreams!

2007-07-21T08:07:00.000+01:00

Okay so those of you who know me will not be suprised when I say "I like my chocolate" and yesterday my appreciation of chocolate (or lack of it) suprised even me!

It all started yesterday morning, we were all up early and the boys had their breakfast which is a good job because when Pete came in from his night shift he brought them a bag of chocolate stars each. I thought I would sieze the opportunity of this distraction to go and have a bath to try and ease my morning sickness.

Sat wallowing in the bath, I was soon joined by little Josh with a big chocolately smile on his face, he came up to the side of the bath tripped and said his trademark,

"Ooopth Thorry Mummy!"

I looked down and believe me the thought of chocolates floating in a bath is the stuff my dreams are made of, but it isn't as appetising in real life, as you would imagine. In fact it reminded me more of another accident in the bath Josh had a few weeks ago, but we won't go there! So yeah, I spent the rest of my lovely relaxing peaceful bath chasing rapidly melting chocolate stars around the tub and after that I couldn't exactly relax so I jumped out pretty quick, just in time to be sick AGAIN!

DOH!!

Hard day!

2007-07-19T19:09:00.000+01:00

It's a tough life!

Zzzzzz...

2007-07-19T08:31:00.000+01:00

Hello, I'm sorry for the lack of bloggy stuff lately everythings fine, we're all good here. I'm 10 1/2 weeks now and still feeling v. v. v. sick! So as a result I try to keep myself busy throughout the day to take my mind off it, unless I'm really tired then I'm flat out resting because the best way to forget about it seems to be sleeping! And have I mentioned before... I LOVE MY SLEEP!

Anyway, I can't believe my big boy has completed his first year in school. And last night at bedtime he read a story to his brother (with a little help on some words!) It was so sweet. He came home on his last day with a bag full of his work and his progress is so evident, so I was really proud. And I'm setting to work on scrapbooking his pictures.

So its been really quiet here. Last week I didn't go anywhere, at all (apart from the school run), mind you it didn't just rain, I was contemplating building an ark with the spare wood in the garage!
But its now sunny!! Horraaayy! So now Luke's finished school my blog probably will be a bit quieter because I'm hopefully out in the sun enjoying time with our boys, or asleep on the settee!

By the way, thankyou for your prayers for my Mum, she had the all clear and they don't want to see her for another year! Thankyou Lord!

Meet you in the park for an ice cream?

Re: Pregnancy belly!

2007-07-11T15:46:00.000+01:00

Yikes I just noticed the photo of me before I gave birth to Josh... I was huge!!

I look like a beeched whale, uh oh!

I'm gonna go hide the chocolate hob nobs... =o((

"Wee wee" update...

2007-07-11T14:57:00.000+01:00

Yup, my genius of a 23 month year old actually went to Asda today in his pants (to American folk we call your underwear 'pants', we call your 'pants' trousers... confused, i am!) Oh yeah, BTY, not just his pants he had trousers on too! We did a big shop (meant to spend £20... spent £60! Oooops!) He even fell asleep in the car and much to my husbands relief he didn't wee in his lovely new car, pheww! So he's doing good.

Thank the Lord its not raining!!! Woo hoo, finally we have been out in the garden enjoying the sun, although I'm not too impressed with the heat though as it seems to increase my sickness and tiredness, but hey, me complain... never!

Anyway, I haven't shared much about my pregnancy so far (I haven't shared much of anything lately... especially not food!) Yeah, I'm feeling... well pregnant. I don't need a little blue line to tell me now. Its kind of comforting though to feel so bad because surely that's a sign of a healthy pregnancy, right? And my tummy is rapidly expanding too, again, could be the food though! I'm not using it as an excuse to eat anything because I really can't afford to put on a lot of weight, but I just can't help it. If my body is telling me that chocolate hob nobs will stop me feeling sick then chocolate hob nobs it is! And don't get me started on burgers I could have eaten a whole cow one day last week! Anyway, here is a photo of a 9 week old belly I hasten to add it is NOT MINE, because quite frankly my belly didn't look like this before I had my 1st child let alone my 3rd!

Just illustrating my point that it is possible to start putting weight on at this stage and it is not the amount of burgers I'm consuming that has made my belly expand, and besides I have only put 1lb on at the moment, not bad eh?

So there we go, Josh is about to wake up, Luke is about to come tearing through the house like the tasmanian devil so I'd better go and brace myself!

Del x

PS. Can I ask you all to pray for my Mum please, incase you don't already know she had breast cancer 3 years ago which was successfully treated then and has to go annually for a mamogram. She went yesterday and has to return for the results on monday. So we would really value your prayers for her that everything is ok, and give her and my Dad a peace in the meantime, thanks x

Proud Mummy!

2007-07-10T18:34:00.000+01:00

Ever since I have found out we're expecting again I have been looking again at our boys and really appreciating them more than normal! Luke is growing into such a gorgeous little man, with a beautiful heart and we are so so proud of him. Meanwhile Josh is really settling down and developing his place in this house in his own right. He is being really cuddly with me, which is lush, even though he insists on telling me he's Daddy's boy! And it may have taken 3 children but i feel, yeah, this is for me! Sure i have bad days where every word seems to be a nag or a moan to them but then they'll say "sorry Mummy" and all is good in the world again.

Yesterday I was super proud of Josh because he thoroughly suprised me. He started the day asking me to change his nappy, then requested a wee in his own little way "Wee wee Mummy wee wee!"
So I obeyed and to my immense pride he did a WEE! The little smile on his face as he tinkled was priceless, mind you I was hoping around the bathroom arms flying everywhere saying "woo, hoo!" And he remained dry throughout the day asking when me he needed to go, untill about 4.30 when it all went horribly wrong, but hey! Luke wasn't the faintest bit interested in potty training untill he was 2 and 9 months but Josh isn't 2 until the end of August which is why I was so shocked. At the moment we are just running with it and despite the odd little accident and on one occasion Luke saying "Mummy why has Josh got little brown balls in his pants?" he's doing good!

Now as for Luke, we just come back from his parents evening. I have to say I'm less than impressed with his teacher. Sure she told us what we knew about Luke accademically, she said he's not the best in the class, he's not the worst. She said he's not naughty. She said he no longer gets stressed with his fellow class mates, he never complains. Okay... she also said that he is a daydreamer and he does everything at his own pace... tell me something I don't know! And that was it. I didn't expect her to feel for him what we feel for him, I know we are a little biased! But come on, reading between the lines of what she said

... sorry wee break. When a 2 year old is shouting "wee wee" you drop everything and run...

Where was I? Reading between the lines of what she said trying to gain something positive from what she said she was describing a happy, contented little boy, not academically record breaking but he's doing ok, he's popular, polite, he works hard at the things he's passionate about, I don't know many 4 year olds that can do a 4x4 beat on the drums, or can tell you about different types of birds, and can quote Bible stories and sing the back catalogue of Hillsongs word for word... so no matter what the teacher says or didn't say, he's our Luke and we couldn't be prouder of him!

So there we are, earlier I was feeling quite down about what the teacher said, I'm feeling shattered, sick as a dog but now I'm gonna have an early night tonight with a smile on my face because of my boys x

7/7/07

2007-07-07T08:31:00.000+01:00

Hello! Again huge apologies for not blogging much this week... all will be revealed. Bit of a long one today to make up for it though, sorry!

If people were to ask me what has been a definitive time in my life, the year that most changed my life and affected the course in which it has taken I'd have to say when I was 13, and I know that seems wierd because that's still pretty young to make life changing decisions, but truly I did.

At thirteen I was a happy contented teenager and I was starting to experience more of life, for example my Grandfather died, a really lovely man who I miss dearly, however it was around the same time and probably for this reason that I started questioning life itself and as a result felt I wanted to start going to church. I realised that this was something that wasn't an option in my life, I wanted to know more and I needed to continue searching. As soon as I started going to church I realised that this was real, there was something here that I needed in my life and quietly started to realise I wanted to be a christian, I was baptised in September 1993 and I have never looked back, little did I know that there was someone in the congregation that day who was to be my future husband!

At the same time, wandering through the corridors in school and literally bumped into this really cute boy, I thought he's really happy but he was a year younger than me, a total sin liking a boy younger than you when you are in school, so I dismissed him from my thoughts and carried on my day. Over the next few weeks I saw him everywhere and discovered we had mutual friends, and eventually he plucked up the courage to ask me out... my first proper boyfriend, I was walking on air!

He asked me to meet his parents, and I said I can't meet up on a sunday because I go to church, being a v. good girl, but to my amazement he said "so do I!" I intially thought "yeah right!" That he was just trying to impress his new girlfriend. But he did and I attended his baptism with him in October 1993. The significance of this I didn't appreciate at the time, and I truly could write a book about all the happenings of the next 5 years. But no matter what, we could not get away from each other. Even if we weren't together as boyfriend/girlfriend we were best friends... I used to pray for rain so that when we walked up to our youth meeting I had an excuse to snuggle under his umbrella.

And the point of all this... on July 7th 2001 we got married, 6 years ago today!

We had a lovely day! And the fun didn't stop there, by october we were expecting our first child, Luke. In August 2005, Josh came along and here comes our next adventure... we are expecting again sometime in february 2008!!

God's never taken His hand off us, he has led us all our lives and continuing to do so, to have a partner in life who beleives the same as me is such a blessing, our house is always full of madness, be it laughter, music, screaming, little people jumping around, friends popping in, we are so blessed! And now to have another on the way is again really exciting. (A bit suprising too!) I am only 9 weeks so its still early days but I felt I needed to explain my lack of blogging is because in the mornings i'm feeling too sick and in the evenings I'm too tired!

So there it is, I've been desperate to blog but I wanted to tell all our close friends and family first. Today, is not quite like our wedding day, although i do remember feeling v. sick that morning too, but that was just nerves. It's a lot quieter today, no huge party with all our nearest and dearest today. In fact, Pete's nights tonight so will be sleeping all day and working all night, but the significance of this day will not pass us by. On his way home from work Pete bought me 2 gorgeous bunches of flowers, so yeah, it just about us today, and we are happier today than ever.

Pete, I can't imagine living this life without you, you're my best friend, my soul mate, my gorgeous husband and father to my 3 childrens and for that I thank God every day for you. Thank you for being you, thank you for all you do for us, we love you more than you can imagine!

Del xxx (Bleugghhhh!)

Viva la Newbridge

2007-06-30T07:33:00.000+01:00

Everybody seems to ask "you going away this year?" To which my reply is "No" and I'm ok with that, there's loads going on, we want to do lots of jobs around the house for reasons you will soon find out! But speaking to a friend on tuesday, he invited us to stay with him and his family in Lancashire this weekend... to which my reply was "Yey, we're going on holiday!"

Its a lovely part of the country (even thought most of it is flooded at the moment!), but even if we didn't get to go out, to sit in and chill out with our friends and catch up would be so lovely, so I set about getting everything ready. Bought little pressies for the family to take with us and bought snacks to keep the boys quiet on the journey and I was so excited! Then the phone rang... our friend is ill, the Doctor has ordered a restful weekend, something that certainly wouldn't happen if the Joneses hit! So we can't go... :o((

Anyway, so we have a whole weekend to fill, the stinkin rain won't flippin stop coming down so we have a plan... we're going to go to Techniquest in Cardiff with the boys (a fun interactive science place where it all hands fun on but most importantly, its inside!), and a very exciting bit, its next door to Harry Ramsdens the famous chip shop! We going to visit our friends (watch out M & C!) and tonight we have babysitters so we going to do something nice, don't know what yet but will be nice. So hopefully all is not lost, we can still have a lovely weekend, just the fact that Pete isn't working is a real treat! So there we go... will let you know what we get up to...

However, I know we can't go to Lancashire to visit our friends but we are open to invitations... especially from our new found bloggy friends in erm.... Texas, Alabama... anywhere, we're not fussy? (Especially if the only vast amounts of water you have near you come in the form of a heated swimming pool and not a rain drop insight! But we're not fussy!)

By the way, if you're reading this Nic hope you really chill out this weekend, and we pray you'll be better and back to your normal bubbly self soon, then we'll come and invade your lovely home!!

From the Inside Out - United Live

2007-06-26T17:40:00.001+01:00

I just love this song, just had to share it!

"Thanks Mum!"

2007-06-25T21:19:00.000+01:00

As promised here's the photos of the digger we made (well... I was still making at 10:30 last night!) All I had was a little "Thanks Mum!
It was well worth it!

Although, he did say that everyone else had cars and he was the only digger :o)

Busy bees!

2007-06-23T21:22:00.000+01:00

What a day?! Its rained again today so we stayed in and decided to get some jobs done, Pete's choice not mine, so I quite happily produced a list as long as his arm!

We have had so much work done since we've been in this house and generally the house always looks nice, but I always feel like things are not quite finished. So today I was on a mission...

Job *1...

We decided to change the cot into a little bed for Josh, how cute is this? Lately, he hasn't been very happy in his cot so we're giving it a go... will let so know how we get on... it could be a long night!

Job *2...

One of the things that has been left undone is putting my pictures up on the wall, I'm so so blessed having such a handy husband, but he's always so busy doing other peoples houses, now its my turn!

Job *3...

I simply cannot believe that this is done... I've always wanted a book shelf, so Pete about 2 years ago made me one. He did a beautiful job however, he wasn't able to finish it by putting the shelves in so for ages I had this decorative thing in my hallway that was neither a cupboard nor a cabinet but TODAY... ITS DONE!

We still need to stain the shelves but isn't it pretty? It's strange, books have always been a massive part of my life ever since I managed the book department in Cardiff's WHSmith and I love everything about them, you can often catch me inhaling deeply at the smell of new books... wierd I know! Anyway, now I have some of my books on display (I could do with another 2 cabinets but one step at a time!) all of a sudden my house feels more like home, know what I mean? It has really spurred me on to do all those other little touches I've promised myself.

Job *4...

While Pete was doing all this I felt inspired to do some sorting out and this was my handiwork...

Every box under the bed is sorted, every jigsaw puzzle is complete, every crayon, every lego piece... all has its own place and it looks beautiful, I took the photos cos believe me, it won't be like it for long!

So yeah, its been a good day, the boys have been as good as gold (probably because they've been playing with Daddy's drills all day!) and I feel so good having done all this, I'm sure gonna sleep well tonight.... Let's hope Josh does too!

See ya!

UPDATE... Josh is obviously loving his new found freedom and felt the need to share it with us at regular intervals throughout the night! 02:30, 03:30 and 04:30 at this point after reading 2 stories I then a la Nanny 911 tried pining him down but without giving him any eye contact and therefore attention. The only thing this did succeed in was tiring him out for when he decided to go back to sleep, which was about an hour later. We will perserver with this, we have to, just hope that tomorrow he will be better. This is a heartfelt plea to all Mums out there HELP? Any suggestions, ideas, advice will be gladly received.... Thanks!

St-ri-ke!!!

2007-06-22T19:20:00.000+01:00

Just had to share this photo...
Pete's not working his night shift this week so we've just come back from taking the boys bowling, it was the first time Josh could really take part, in fact, the scores were as follows...

1st Pete 103

2nd Luke 86

3rd Josh 84

4th ME!!! 76

Never mind! I scored earlier on tonight when we went to a place called Macro.

In case you don't already know its one of those places that sell everything at wholesale prices in GIANT size packs. For Pete, this was heaven, because he has the philosophy that bigger is better even if it doesn't fit into any cupboards at home. This wasn't such a good idea since it is the end of the month and pay day is on monday. I managed to steer him empty handed past the bbq's, we persuaded the boys that they didn't need any of the toys we saw, we escaped the tool department relatively unscathed until we turned the corner and found the grocery department... uh oh!

I remained the disciplined one and walked down the aisles with Pete and the boys looking in awe at all the giant size products. We agreed we will return to buy the super super pack of nappies after pay day. We felt like little Charlie in Willy Wonka's factory when we walked down the confectionery aisle, with a trail of droul behind us! But I relented when we got to the drinks I thought I was being really good buying a 24 pack of mineral water... very healthy. But then it was a slippery slope.... and I was enjoying the ride! The crisp aisle was calling our name and we came out after adopting a very lonely looking box of 36 Real crisps Roast Ox flavour! (Don't knock em, till you've tried some, seriously they are delish!), Pete then added a six pack of Coke (so much for being healthy) and as we were trying to tear ourselves away, in the direction of the checkouts we walked past the sweets again! And that was it, we caved... so that's our next months food bill spent, but hey we can live quite happily on crisps, coke and candy!

Anyway, I'm as happy as a pig in mud tonight. We've spent some time with the boys, they are now tucked up in bed, the chinese delivery man has just been and my hubby hasn't got to go to work... what more can a girl want?

Homework?!?

2007-06-21T15:44:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd left my homework days behind me a long time ago ( I can't believe I left school 12 years ago! Sob...)

Anyway, how was I wrong?

Luke came home from school today saying it is "multi cutura week" ? ? ? Okay?

After some interrogating and a rumble through the pile of notes he brought home from school this week (which I confess I still hadn't looked at!) I find a letter that says its "Multi-Cultural Week" and each class has to dress up in the national dress of the country they have been given... I find myself praying... "Please Lord let him be Wales?"

No. Greenland!!
I ask you. Asda doesn't stock the Greenland national costume you know?

Anyway, I am about to get to work ruining a perfectly good white t-shirt (you don't get many of these with little boys do you?) painting it with the flag of greenland which is white and red. And all this by tomorrow! So yeah that's my homework for tonight, as well as cook tea, tidy up, do some ironing, put more washing on, and be out for 7.15 for worship group practice (perhaps I shoudn't exactly be blogging right now, but hey!). I'm dreading it when he starts bringing home algebra or some other scary topic designed for life on another planet. Craft I can do, maths, uh oh?

So that's tonight. Tomorrow, and into the weekend is to finish his Luke sized form of transport that he has to wear as part of a traffic jam they are holding in his school. So being thoroughly stoopid... I couldn't choose anything easy. Luke asked could we do a digger and I SAID YES! So we have a 3ft tall cut out of a digger, with I hasten to add, has movable jointed digger bits, front and back, AND wheels that turn! Impressed...? I'd wait till you see the photos if I were you!

Green green grass of home!

2007-06-20T18:42:00.000+01:00

I heard the other day someone talking about Welsh people, and what they were saying was so true.

It was something I guess I've always known but I've never really noticed at the time. This person said welsh people more than any other race are not only proud of their nationality but we want to tell everyone we are welsh!

We are proud of our accents, proud of the scenary, proud of our language, proud of the sports (???), proud of the history, proud of our music, proud of our celebs... CZJ, Tom Jones...etc. So why shouldn't we tell everyone?

If you are going anywhere for any period of time, or representing wales in any way you can guarantee you will be bearing a Welsh flagin some shape or form. To those people reading this who don't live in the Uk, you probably think that we are a people who live near England therefore its ok to call us English... woah, woah, woah!

I certainly wouldn't recommend anyone to say that aloud if stood surrounded by welsh people because quite frankly you'll be lynched.

An experience you must have before you leave this life is to experience Wales on a international day (rugby match!), especially in Cardiff, especially if they are playing England,

ESPECIALLY IF WE WON!!!

In fact, our very own Stereophonics wrote a song which most Welsh people can quote...

We don't wanna be,Your enemy,

But when we're on the field,

It's red, white and green,

Got beat by the Irish,

Got beat by the Scots,

The French had a struggle,

But you're the one we want,

We want...

As long as we beat the English,

As long as we beat the English, we don't care

I don't really know why we are this passionate, even hostile? Perhaps its because we always get lumped in with england and long to be recognised in our own right? I'm sure part of the reason has to be a generational thing, we've been bred with this pride, and know matter how much of a beating we get on the rugby field, this pride cannot be beaten out of us!

It was really nice to read our friends' blog who are now honorary Welsh people because they have chosen to move here and they love it and are just as proud of Wales as we are, here is one of my favourite posts off their blog http://marcandcharity.blogspot.com/2007/06/beautiful-country.html

check out the pictures!

Anyway, just some thoughts for you, so diolch and nos da!

(This means "thank you" and "goodnight" - I think!)

Too cool!

2007-06-19T16:01:00.000+01:00

The sun may have gone in,

It may be tipping down outside...

but that's no excuse not to look cool!

Dad-dy!

2007-06-18T10:11:00.000+01:00

I felt a bit guilty this morning because its Fathers Day and what do you get for the guy who is loved as much as Pete is? Ask him what he wants and he'd say, flying lessons, motorbike, 42" plasma for the bedroom, ferrarri etc. etc. But the truth is, there isn't anything he actually wants, although he'd never say no to a new t-shirt from the surf shop! I know for him to have a day with no work and to spend quality time with his boys would be all he wants.

So we all bundled into the bedroom this morning, Luke was proud as punch with the writing and drawing he did himself on Daddy's card, showing Daddy the cards we picked out that tried to capture the feelings they have for him, completely impossible task because he is their world. Then he proudly proclaimed that "You''ll have another present if you eat all your dinner!" So after dinner he presented his Daddy with a plate of fairy cakes we'd lovingly made.

It was a bit of a mad day, when you go to church it is, isn't it? But to be in church with our boys, for them to do their little gifts for Daddy in Sunday School was lovely. It was where we are meant to be, altogether in our Father's house, they walk around the church with so much confidence like they're home, they trot up to the stage area while their Daddy's drumming, and while I'm playing my guitar, they clap hands have a little sing, then return to the play area without a care in the world.

I'm so thankful for Pete, he is an amazing Daddy, he has wonderful fun with them, there is no shortage of giggles when he's with them, yet there is no-one who they listen to as much as Daddy. When he is in the room its like no-one else matters to them. He provides for them like no other, he fills them with security, he always tells them he loves them, and how proud he is of them. He instills in them stories from the Bible, does a little prayer at bedtime, and I know they are turning into strong men of God like him, in fact they are both very different but both have his stamp on them. When we were younger, I could never have imagined the looks on our childrens faces when they see their Daddy, there is nothing like it, and I'm so proud and priviledged to be a Mum to his children.

Thank you, babe! xxx

Blessed!

2007-06-16T14:08:00.000+01:00

Sometimes we just don't realise how blessed we are, do we?

This morning the rain held off for just enough time to go to my favourite place in the World (Ok, I haven't been to many places but I'm sure as nice as the other place would be this would still be in my top ten!)

This is Pontypool Park, which is about 10 mins drive from home. Today it was just me and the boys going for a walk. It's huge and really open, and I love the fact that although its in my home town I know there are still loads of parts of it I haven't explored yet. Everywhere you look there are massive trees, everyone is different and everyone of them probably could tell a story. Loads goes on in the park, not only does it house the leisure centre but lately there's been some festivals held here too, my favourite being Jazz in the Park, which is great, I'm not really into Jazz but I love the atmosphere. I'm getting excited already for September, when this is held. The boys had a run on the infamous Pontypool rugby pitch, Luke was asking "Where's the rugby ball Mummy?" I think he thought he stood a good chance of scoring - well it was just him! Then we walked past the ponds and saw a family of ducks with their brood of about 10 chicks. A squirrel ran past our feet. Then we walked up to the ski slope to see the skiers practicing away on the dry slope and it started to rain so we ran back down to the cafe for a CAKE!

How perfect is that? It only took us an hour or two, but I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else!

I'd better go now or I run the chance of sounding like my Mum! But in my defense, there's not many places where you can take a family, near your house, that's quiet, no traffic concerns, you can explore and doesn't cost anything!!

See ya!

The Lion and the Lamb!

2007-06-15T18:45:00.000+01:00

I don't quite know what's happening in our house at the moment but quite frankly its a little unsettling, don't get me wrong I'm not knocking it, it just VERY unusual. Here's a photo to illustrate...

This is Luke helping get his little brother ready for bed, entirely voluntarily! Now he is a good boy, but really how many 4 year olds 1. offer to tidy up, and 2. actually complete the task without getting bored. To listen to him talk to his brother was so sweet, he was saying "give me your arm Josh... push... there's a good boy" and even more unusual, Josh listened and obeyed his every command!

Luke's had 2 days off school for teachers training and I was gutted cos the weather has been so nice and the last two days its just tipped down. So 2 children cooped up for 2 days doesn't normally make for a happy household, but they have been little angels! They've played lovely and helped each other, even when they were wrestling they would stop and give each other a quick loving and an "aaaah!" while patting each others back...

Really what has happened to my children?

I think they might be coming down with something!

Dad's photo album!

2007-06-14T09:31:00.000+01:00

My Dad has recently discovered the joys of digital photography, and he's loving it. Anyway, I've pinched his camera and found these little treasures on it, hope you don't mind me sharing them!
Also, my sister's in India at them moment with work so I thought I could post these for her to have a look at while she's away... hope you like them sis!

This is Luke in Dad's neighbours garden, you can imagine the excitement can't you!

Recently, Pete and my brothers decided to help my Dad cut down his trees, its a little worrying cos if you're a regular visitor to this blog you'll know how accident prone my husband is and the dot at the top of the tree is Pete. Yes, they let him climb the trees with sharp implements in his hands! But don't worry, he came home with the odd scratch and scrap, so pretty good going for Pete really!

How gorgeous is this photo... our beautiful Josh!

Here's the whole crew Auntie Jane! (Our nieces Harriet and Ella)

The boys on Easter Sunday morning having an egg hunt in their pjs (I love their little buckets!)

I love this photo, Luke and my Dad on a recent trip out, they were on a boat trip around Cardiff Bay

Luke again, on his day out with Nanny and Bampi, how cool is he?

This one's for Jane... the men in your life... Kev and Jake

No Josh hasn't shrunk in the wash, nor has he joined clown school... Josh wearing my Dad's shoes!

So there we are... just some snippets from the Jones/Clark/Reynish family album. Hope you enjoyed them?

Del ;0))

Recovery...

2007-06-11T18:00:00.000+01:00

You know how I'm always moaning that I don't get out much, this weekend I've been thoroughly spoilt!

The girlie's went out on Friday as you know.

Saturday morning we went to Bailey's 1st birthday party, for pictures go to http://www.marcandcharity.blogspot.com/ (look for the cupcakes... they were scrummy and so cute!) We had a lovely time! It was great to see get together and it was great to meet their friends in Cardiff.

Then Saturday night the African Children's Choir were in Pontypool and our church hosted the concert. Our church is going through a bit of a hard time at the moment but everyone is pulling together and it was a really successful weekend, it was loads of work but when you see those children's faces... speechless! They are so so beautiful, so polite, so full of energy, so grateful for everything you do for them and yet by the end of the weekend we found ourselves so grateful that they came to us, they were such a blessing. Initially, you naturally feel sorry for them, for what they've experienced in their short lives, we could never imagine, yet to look at them all you see is joy. They have the most amazing smiles. And when the music starts they come alive, their rhythm and their enthusiasm if so infectious. To see them worshipping is amazing, they are so sincere and so in touch with God, its not despite everything, they worship BECAUSE of everything He has done for them, they are having an amazing time on tour and we were privileged to meet them.

Sunday morning they came to our church, to see our church so full was great but more importantly it was electric! The children were so vibrant and full of life, praising they're God in their own way, be it singing, or with a shaker, a drums, or bells. It was so loud, believe me, it takes a lot to drown out Pete and Dave when they get going, but we could not hear ourselves, the singing, clapping and drumming was so loud! It was an amazing experience! When they were leaving every child went up to every single person who was there and gave the most amazing cwtch (cuddle- to you non-welsh people!) and we had the opportunity to encourage and thank every one of them. They are doing amazing work, highlighting the truth of what's going on in Africa, showing how God is moving and obviously sending home the money they make to change lives and so the work continues.

To see what I mean click on this... you'll be really pleased you did!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jXxnr-FzQU

Sunday evening we went back to church, shattered, but it was still good to be there. Then after church we had a bit of cake because it was Nat's birthday HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEETIE! followed by an earlyish night.

So there you have it... my weekend, really tiring but I'd do it all again in a second!

I'm back!

2007-06-08T23:37:00.000+01:00

Hey,
Its 11:25 and I've just got back. We've had a fab time! Our local pub really did us proud, we had some gorgeous food, good service and when we were full to bursting we went out and sat outside which is alongside the canal, the weather was lovely and the atmosphere was great. Girlies out just being themselves and having a laugh. It was so good seeing friends laugh in ways I haven't seen them laugh in a long time. Its ironic really cos we went out tonight complaining that we don't get out much and yet all majority of the conversations were about our children, childbirth experiences, embarassing stories about what the children have done... yet it was lovely. Even nicer, I've come back and our boys are tucked up in bed... and I'm tempted to go in and wake them for a cuddle cos I've missed them... but I won't, that'd be cr-azy!

Anyway,wish Pete was here (he's nights!) I'm probably not making much sense anymore, we've got a really busy day tomorrow, so I'm going to bed.

Night Night :o)

2007-06-08T14:27:00.001+01:00

Oh yeah!

And I'm going out tonight with some girls from church... like a proper grown up, Mum and Dad are babysitting cos Pete's working... I'm so looking forward to it!

Let you know how we get on!

My Happiness!

2007-06-08T13:54:00.000+01:00

Just been and had my accupuncture and I thought I'd be used to it by now, but no!! I walked in and it wasn't the normal Doctor so that freaked me out cos she was about the same age as me and my other Doctor had 20 years experience, she then started treating me and IT HURT! She put approx 16 needles into my tummy, I looked like the ariel view of the millenium dome! But not quite this big!

I also had one in my forehead that would make me go cross eyed if I tried to focus on it. So all in all, I wasn't impressed with her. She then left me like this for I assumed 30 mins. But she redeemed herself... after 15mins she came in to check on me. But my mobile had gone off, not wanting to move in case I did any damage I asked her to pass me my mobile and explained just in case there was a problem with my little boy... she then said...

"You ha chi-dren, yo boi?"

"Yes I have two boys aged nearly 5 and 2"

"Wow, you don look ol for 2 chi dren... yoo maari?"

"Yes"

(putting her hands on my face) "Ahh, yoor hap-een-ess!"

I LOVE HER! Not only did she think I looked young she also pointed out that my boys (big and little) are MY HAPPINESS! Am I that transparent? She could tell how I feel about my family from my face... and once again I'm reminded how blessed I am!

It's arrived!

2007-06-08T07:26:00.000+01:00

I don't get out much, but yesterday I did manage to get out with my girlies so off we went taking over our local town center with our 3 buggies side by side causing chaos wherever we went.

Then I saw it, I turned a corner and a vision caught my eye, and joy of joys... its coming... to Cwmbran!!!!

I am so excited and do you know what the ironic thing is... I don't even like coffee! (hence my growing addiction to Diet Coke for my caffine boost). But I lurve starbucks. I love the smell, the interior, the music, the serenity... and I would't want to offend the staff by refusing to have whipped cream on top of my grande hot chocolate, that would just be rude! And besides that their snacks are gorgeous and if I am actually sticking to my diet for more than an hour their raspberry frapaccino's are highly recommended! Oh joy!

Looks like I'll be going out a little bit more in the future! Meet me there?

Work in progress!

2007-06-06T20:45:00.000+01:00

Hi guys!
I know it's been a while... I'm not really sure why, its probably because everything has been pretty normal, no disasters (well unless you count Josh's collision with a leg of a upside down wooden stool!), nothing major exciting... I don't think. We've been having some lovely time with our family and friends, I've been spending time with the boys in the garden and its been really nice!

But do you know what? Lately, and more and more every day I'm feeling like a work in progress. I feel that God is sculpting me and is gradually chipping off all the stuff he doesn't like or require and remoulding me adding in stuff that makes me a better person. When I was 12 if you asked me what I'd be like at 27 and a half, I guess I would have thought that I would have had everything sussed by now. And yeah don't get me wrong I'm not in the slightest talking about my life because I am so so so incredibly blessed, I'm talking about Dellie, underneath, raw. The stuff that goes through my head, the stuff that not even I know about, only God. Lately I've been praying for wisdom... as in James 1... I would love to be able to say or do the right thing at the right time. To have such an intimate relationship with God that I would know ... you see that's the problem... I don't know what yet. Yeah, there are times when I feel God has really used me, then there are other days when I feel God has so so much work to do in me yet, why would He even contemplate using little silly old me?! Its like the more I learn, the more I realise I have got to learn. Not that that is a bad thing cos do you know what? The ride along the way is fun and I know one day His work will be done, I just hope He's happy with the finished article!

Anyway, its not only about me personally, I am a work in progress when it comes to stuff like my diet, one day I will be at my goal weight, one day I will learn how to manage a house effectively and stay on top of the housework, one day I will be a really good Mum, wife, friend, one day, phewee... I'm gonna go and have a loooong soak in something warm and bubbly (after Ugly Betty!) ;o)

Just normal...

2007-05-31T21:51:00.000+01:00

Sorry to be boring, but today we've had no scary revelations from Luke, no dramas apart from the odd dispute to settle between two very loving brothers (not!), it has rained, rained, rained so we've stayed in all day and because I'm still feeling really tired, but thanks to our beloved diet coke this afternoon I have had enough energy to do what I've had to do, so yeah, its been good.

Pete's in work, love him, the boys are peacefully sleeping and I haven't heard a cough all evening so it looks like Josh's cold is subsiding and Luke hasn't caught it, so that is a HUGE relief considering the Doctor told us he would be hospitalised with a cold. We are just keeping a close eye on him increasing his inhalers and hope we are doing an enough to fight it before the asthma can take hold. I thank God that at the moment he's fine and he has WAAAY to much energy so that's a good sign!

I have now rediscovered the carpet after putting all the toys away, can see the work tops now the dish washers happily whirring away, its just the ironing to go but you know what? It's 10.15 and I'm going to bed, I will try to think of something witty, funny and intelligent to write tomorrow, but for now I'm just gonna say... NIGHT, NIGHT!

PS. By the way... to my lovely hubby who's probably reading this in the middle of the night, hope you are having a good night hun, miss you, see you in the morning xxx

Beware... Mummy Meltdown!

2007-05-30T18:21:00.000+01:00

Caution: This blog has been awarded a certificate 15 due to its indecent and explicit content

Ok, its been a while since I've had a meltdown about my little boys growing up. Just when you think you've accepted it, they go and drop a bombshell that completely knocks you sideways... Here goes!

My Mum has just informed me that when they were sitting for us to go to worship group last night, she asked Luke...

Mum: How's school love?

Luke: Alright.

Mum: So what have you been doing?

Luke: I've been doing my alphabet.

Mum: Yes

Luke: Been learning words

Mum: Good, what words Luke?

Luke: I know the word sex (!!!!!!)

Mum: What?

Luke: Yeah I know the word sex, it has an 'eh' in the middle

So he even knows how to spell it!!

What's happened to my little boy? Who on this earth is putting those words into his head... I'm gonna hunt them down, and and and... ok, I'll probably leave it and put it down to growing up!

All you Mums out there, he's four, FOUR, I tell you!

Little boys and their toys!

2007-05-30T09:02:00.001+01:00

No matter how many toys we have for the boys there are always things that they love more. I think I could seriously hide all their toys and they wouldn't even notice it! Anyway, here's a few photos to illustrate my point...I could have left Josh here, gone shopping for a few hours come back and he still would have been transfixed (Don't worry I didn't!) They are repairing the water main on the road below our house and all Josh said all morning was ...

"dig-ger, dig-ger, lorry, lorry, dig-ger"

He absolutely loved it!

Also, Pete has been trying to finish off the back garden, my steps look beautiful so now he doing a hardstanding for the cars. Luke has been out there with him the whole time, digging, moving the rubble, fetching stuff for him, he was in his element, they both were, father and son doing construction what more would a man want, and yeah, that would be case... if the cement mixer would work, this is how I found them...

Soon enough, a new cement mixer was delivered and the fun started all over again! My life seems to revolve around tools (Josh has his own toy jig saw-Luke prefers the real one!), hammers, tape measures, screw fix catalogues... little boys and their toys, eh? (And that's just Pete!)

Wierdness?

2007-05-29T09:16:00.001+01:00

Hi guys,

I'm back! Thanks for the comments I had some real positive stuff back and some good constructive suggestions too that I'm gonna think over, but thanks for the encouragement, it means a lot!

Ok, you have Charity to thank for this post... check out her 7 wierd things on Cardiff Central! You know what? I am really struggling to think of things which makes me sound really big headed but thinking sensibly... if I knew stuff I was doing was wierd I guess I wouldn't do it anyway! I think I need to speak to my nearest and dearest to see what wierd things they think I do! (And by the way, they didn't have to think very hard... what's that saying?)

Food stuff... I love carrots, grated then warmed up... yeah, I know, but don't knock it till you try it, they go really sweet like you've put sugar on them, seriously try it!
I will always check my bed before I get in just incase some spiders are taking a little nap too!
I did seriously freak out my friend when we were away at a youth weekend when we were about 15, we slept next to each other and I kept her awake with some wierd teeth chattering and talking in my sleep, I meanwhile slept like a baby!
Another friend has pointed out my extremely dexterous feet I have been known to pick up pretty much anything with my feet, its another attempt at multi-tasking!
Charity mentioned that in her mind she thinks in a Welsh accent that I think is pretty normal considering she's now living in Wales but me... I am spending so much time reading American blogs I am starting to think in american and catch myself going to say ya'll and other stuff like that! (But in my defence america is the home of diet coke, cup cakes and disney so you can see why I have an infinity with it!)
I can recite every word and lyric to High School Musical, I just love watching Luke's little face as he's singing away and watching the dance move, you gotta get your head in the game people! (Perhaps this will be an explanation for the above point too!)
I am extremely sensitive (in more ways than one) but I have loads of allergys, mainly a serious reaction to fish but that's not really a problem. But lately I've developed an allergy to apples! I have only just started to like apple pie and apple crumble and yet now if I was to eat an apple my lips itch like mad, followed by my throat and then my eyes and trust me, its not a good look! I just find it really wierd that its just developed?

So there we are! I now tag Nat to do the same... it really is harder than you think!

Have a good day buddies!

Del xxx

PS. I've got some lovely piccies to post if I have time later ;o)

By the way, I've started something now... I'm thinking of more and more wierd things all the time, good job you only wanted 7!!

2007-05-19T11:03:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday Sis!!
Have a fabulous weekend.
Loads of love and hugs,
Pete, Del, and Boys
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

2007-05-18T22:04:00.000+01:00

www.160acrewoods.blogspot.com

Needles, twigs and tears!

2007-05-18T21:20:00.000+01:00

It's been an interesting week!

Pete's mum has recently been suffering with tinitus and nothing is helping her she has seen specialists etc. but its driving her mad. So two weeks ago she went to see the Doctor in the Chinese health food shop Dr & Herbs. Since then she hasn't taken one tablet, she's sleeping and all togther different. So when me and Pete were in town he suggested I popped in to see if they could "sort me out!" with my thyroid problem. So I filled in a form and waited to see the Doctor, she asked me questions and it was like she already knew me. Anyway, she suggested i had accupuncture and drink some herbal tea everyday... piece of cake!

I was taken into the treatment room and told to take my clothes off (not a phrase a girl wants to hear with the lights on!!!) The Doctor started the accupuncture and it was alright, a little pinch here and there, but alright. When she finished she said "now sleep!" and walked out. Now you know me and I don't need any encouragement to sleep but with 16 needles in my body i wasn't exactly relaxed. I led there praying, hoping I was doing the riught thing being there, I lead back, tried to relax and listened to the music. I recognised every song... Amazing Grace, Purify my Heart, Just as I Am, Give thanks... and it was only then that I realised how much I needed this. Although i feel a lot better I still have a long way to go until I feel normal again, but the problem is I don't really know what normal is? I know the problem I have is hormonal relating to my thyroid, so I don't know if it was the accupuncture kicking in and sorting out my hormones or if it was just having 1/2 hour indulgent time when it was just about me, Pete had taken the baby, I could do nothing just lie there and relax and I felt little tears trickle down the side of my face and felt totally overwhelmed. (I couldn't even wipe the tears away for fear of poking my eyes out with the needles in my hands).

When the Doctor returned she gave me a massage. I've never had a massage before professionally so I thought "yey! This is getting even better" until she started digging her elbows into me and slapping my back till I was wincing... what is all that about? I prefered the needles!
Anyway, I was given my herbs with the instructions (or destructions if you smelt the stuff! But hey? If it works...) So I paid up, and legged it. When I met Pete he asked how it was... I looked at him and bawled like a baby! All I could say was "Get me to the car, please!" So whatever they did it was certainly doing something to my hormones....

When I got home Pete was a little too excited, for my liking, to boil up my goodies.
Here is what I had...

Mmm...delicious! I have to boil this for 1/2 hour to reveal a liquid that tastes like stale cigars!
REALLY... ITS BAD!
But, this is a specially concocted brew tailored for my body and my issues so i must give it a go and to be fair it is tasting better as I get used to it, besides it cost a fortune so Pete would kill me if I chucked it!

Watch this space and I'll let you know how I get on...

More than words...

2007-05-13T22:58:00.001+01:00

Hiya,
I've always found it hard to say the right thing at the right time and all too often I end up saying far too many alright things and not quite getting to the point I was trying to make. Do you know what I mean?
I think I've always been like this but since having children things can get a bit foggy in my mind at times... Is it just me?

Anyway, tonight I'm really encouraged because today I feel we've really made a difference to someone's life. There's someone we know who is going through an unbelievably hard time, his whole life is falling apart. He's not a Christian and is really struggling. Anyway, Pete invited him and his family over for dinner and we've had a really nice day. However, thro simple hospitality and showing him love and trust we've since had a text tonight to say that "I need faith... I will not dissmiss God from my life now...as for friendship and trust I could not ask for more than I have felt today".

Sometimes, words aren't enough. We've always said, since we were given this house (and I do believe that!) that its always open and I think most people who know us, know they can turn up and have a feed at anytime and receive a warm welcome. And that's all we've done and I thank God for using us in this way today. In the meantime continue to pray for our friend...

Peace!

2007-05-13T21:58:00.001+01:00

A very rare moment in the Jones household. I just had to capture this momentous occasion!

;o)

World War III

2007-05-12T10:03:00.000+01:00

Hey,
Yesterday I felt really sorry for Lisa on "Preachers-wife" because not only did she have a bad allergy but a bad reaction to the treatment she was given. To make things worse her 4 year old was brutelly honest and needless to say she was feeling a bit sorry for herself... I commented to try and encourage her, because you know, us girlies need to hear it sometimes. Today its my turn to have an image crisis and problem with my 4 year old. Hence, the Worl War III title! This refers to...

a) a breakout of HUGE spots on my chin that no fringe, no amount of hair or make up can possibly hide!

b) the battles taking place in my living room between Luke and Josh, my gosh, they are both so stubborn. Josh has been on the naughty seat 8 times before 9.30! I despair!
So yeah, my chilled out saturday isn't quite what I expected.

However, there is a bright side to this post today... MY WONDERFUL HUBBY!

Bless him! I've never been a shoe person, especially not shoes that cost more than a whole outfit from New Look! As long as I had smart shoes, day shoes, sporty shoes, summer shoes i was pretty happy. But since he has started working nights he's had an epiphany (don't know what that really means but it sounds good!) He gets bored and shops for me! Also, he had the insight not to dare guess my dress size so he decided shoes were safe (wise, wise man!). Since Christmas he has spent more on shoes for me than I have in my lifetime! First my darling Cat boots...

These are the comfiest shoes ever, and I am a major comfort girl
Secondly, my Sketchers trainers...

Aren't they gorgeous? Then last night, he bought me another pair!!

It was only yeaterday that I was thinking I really need to start perhaps going for a little run/walk and start building up my fitness, now I have no excuses!
So anyway, my now my attitude to shoes has changed. God Bless www.vivaladiva.com! Now I'm determined to get in my killer heals that look so pretty in my bedroom, and there is a stunning pair of Lulu Guiness shoes I've got my eye on!

Thanks babe!
xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Stuff I laugh about...

2007-05-10T08:12:00.000+01:00

I laughed today at my boys singing Gwen Stefani's latest song in the car "Woo hooo, weee hooo!" at 4 and 1 1/2 they were pretty good backing singers!
I laugh when i see people I love laughing.
I laugh when I watch Friends (especially when Chandler picks up the hen with its wings out flapping and puts it in Joey's face when his eyes are closed, he opens them and totally freaks out. I'm actually laughing out loud now just trying (badly) to describe it to you).
I laugh when my hubby really doesn't want to admit that I'm right! (It doesn't happen often.
I laugh when Luke tries to tell me how much he loves me... It started off with I love you thiiis much (as he stretches his arms) then it was I love you all the way up the garden over the road and all the way to Aunty Maria's... he even said I love you up to the sky, past the planets etc etc and all the way up to God... and back again.
I laugh when as a band we really rock!
I laugh when I see Josh doing something new, today he was walking around in a circle and getting dizzy then laughing as he fell over...
I laugh with my husband (and sometimes at him too!) He's so sweet, don't tell him i told you!
I laugh with my friends and family.
I laugh watching Jonathan Ross and I know I probably shouldn't because he's a bit close to the mark but I can't help it...
I laugh when I really shouldn't be laughing.
I laugh when Josh decides to rub youghurt in his hair!
I laugh watching Luke idolise his Daddy, trying to be like him, and he SO is!

There is something really theraputic about doing this, I think its done me good, putting stuff into perspective in my little mind. I recommend it!

Anyway, see ya!

Del =o}

Stuff I'm sad about...

2007-05-09T19:57:00.000+01:00

Don't wanna put a downer on my positivity yesterday (I am still happy about the stuff from yesterday too, so its not all doom and gloom!) but I just thought of a whole list of stuff that makes me sad... again none of this is in any order, better get the bullet points out again.

I'm sad that I know my friend is now in hospital going to be induced, and although I'm really excited about the baby, I know how hard this next 24 hours is gonna be for her. So I really pray things will go well for her ( I can say that now she's in hospital cos I know she won't be reading this for a while!).
I'm sad that Pete has his new car and because it's an automatic and its SO big I'm a bit scared to drive it, DOH!
I'm sad that everyone says that when your children are young is the best time in your life, but I'm worried that sometimes I'm too tired to appreciate it, they are such little treasures though!
I'm sad the my other friend is really sad missing her Mum, I would do anything for her but I can't replace her Mum...
I'm sad that the Third Day concert had to end... they ROCKED! Can I pick them up shrink them down and keep them in my pocket with me to play "Your love O Lord" if ever I'm feeling down or stressed... perhaps I should just buy an Ipod!
I'm sad that there are people in the world who don't know when they are going to eat next, when the next bomb in going to land, when the deadly infection will hit them...
I'm sad for Madeline missing in Portugal, I pray she will be returned safe and well real soon.
I'm sad that my four year old is better on the PS2 than me!
I'm sad that the house won't tidy itself, that the clothes don't come out of the washing machine ironed!
I'm sad that it absolutely chucking it down with rain compared to the beautiful sun we've had.
I'm sad that chocolate is fattening...
I'm sad that chips are fattening... get the idea?
I'm sad about how long this list is!

Again, there will probably be more so I will keep on coming back and adding them on.

Hope you not down now too, just felt I needed a bit of reality check, cos life's not always rosy is it? But tune in tomorrow for "Stuff that makes me laugh"

Del =o(

Stuff I'm happy about...

2007-05-08T13:42:00.000+01:00

There seems to be loads going round in my head at the moment so I think it calls for bullet points to help me get it all out... (These aren't in any order of priority!)

I'm happy that Nat and Tim will definitely be parents because if nothing happens sooner she will be induced on thurs, so yey, bless her, it's been a long road but finally it's actually happening!
I'm happy that tonight we're going to see Third Day... yeah I know! It's a bit last minute but I'm soo excited I couldn't go last time and thought they wouldn't come back to Wales for a long time, so yeah, I'm hap-py!
I'm happy my hubby is picking up his dream car tomorrow... hopefully? But he is like a child on christmas eve and frankly is doing my head in a bit!
I'm so happy to read posts off Heather and her hubby, their strength and faith is so inspiring, see what's happening on www.especiallyheather.com
I'm happy that I've got a new dishwasher. I'd actually forgotten what an essential item it is after washing up with my hands (shock horror!) for about a year. Even dried on wheetabix comes out clean, yey!
I'm happy when my Sky+ records my favourite programme that I thought I missed.
I'm happy to be going out tonight... I know I already said that, but I'm doing something grown up, with actual grown ups and not little ones in tow (It doesn't happen often!). Sounds really ungrateful, but it will be nice to be out of the house with my hubby and just enjoy ourselves knowing our boys are tucked up safe at home.
I'm obviously happy when I'm with my family and friends, I'm happy if they're happy.
I'm happy with how Luke is handling his asthma medication. He is so sensible with it, he hasn't complained once.
I'm happy when I'm jamming on my guitar with my mates in our church worship group.
I'm happy when I look at the slide show of my family!
I'm happy that my boys love their Nany and Bampi as much as they possibly could and vice versa I couldn't ask for better baby sitters! ( They even do ironing!)
I'm happy that our boys are growing into lovely little people... Luke has such a sweet caring nature, and Josh is showing signs of being the same, he does try to say love you but ut comes out "uh oooh" And together they are so sweet to each other ( when they are not fighting) they have loads of hugs every day.
I am REALLY happy that God loves me despite all my failings and general bad stuff.

There are loads more so I'm gonna keep on popping in to update this...

Anyway, hope youv'e all got stuff to be happy about.

Del =o))

Just a thought!

2007-05-04T22:28:00.000+01:00

I read this passage on Heather's blog and I was blown away by how strong their faith is despite all the trials they are going through. It's in the back of my mind about the future for Luke, how much is it going to affect him, how much is it gonna affect our lives, is there any point me getting a job so i can be there for him... and as much as I am trying to ignore it, questions keep raising their ugly head. I want to plan, prepare and busy myself but there is no way I can and no point anyway cos I never know when his asthma will hit again, if at all, he might never suffer like the Doctor said. Anyway, I'm rambling now, I'm knackered, and not making much sense so here's the passage...

2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

How amazing to go through a trial and stay positive, remembering that it is just a test and this season will pass... It makes my brain calm down a bit and stops me trying to answer questions that haven't been asked yet. What do you think?

"Thorry Mummy!"

2007-05-04T20:06:00.000+01:00

Considering Luke is not supposed to be very well, between 7 o'clock and bedtime he is going completely bonkers! I'm just hoping its the steroids he was on and now the course has finished the Tasmanian Devil will subside and my lovely Luke will remain, honestly, he goes crackers!

In the last few days, my boys have entered a new phase in their relationship... wrestling!

I know this is what little boys do, but mine never have. But, wow, are they making up for it. They are spending literally hours jumping on each other, rolling around the floor, pulling, hitting, screaming, kicking, all in love of course. I'm amazed how tough my youngest is, Josh is a stone lighter and yet he is leading the way in the battle! He gets so knocked around yet always goes back for more!

I'm learning to keep a supervising eye on things while still trying to let little boys be little boys. There is the occasional "oops" then silence, followed by "Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry..." (the number of times he says it detemines the amount of guilt and therefore the seriousness of the crime!) whereas Josh is still learning this, so he just says a simple "Thorry Mummy!"

How can I shout at that? Sometimes they're too cute for their own good!

2007-05-03T12:28:00.000+01:00

It's is today that Heather is having her operation on her 'inoperable' brain tumour.

For more info go to http://www.especiallyheather.com/

My brave little soldier!

2007-05-01T20:26:00.000+01:00

Well, whoever is reading this who knows us and knows our history with hospitals, will not be shocked to hear that once again we are back and for to hospital. Our lovely Luke was coughing a bit monday night, no runny nose, no temperature, just coughing and was quite chesty so we kept giving him his inhalers and kept him home tues morning. I decided to get him to see a Doc just in case he needed antibiotics, Pete took him cos, you know, no big deal... until the Doc told us his lower left lung wasn't working and he needed to be admitted asap! WHAT?? = o

So yeah, its wednesday night (I think!) and Luke's just been discharged. The Docs initially thought he had pneumonia (???) but after monitoring, LOADS and LOADS of puffs of ventolin, another Doctor told us that it wasn't pnemonia but a HUGE asthma attack waiting to shut his lungs down (GREAT!!). Thankfully, and I do truly thank God for the fact that tues morning we decided to be neurotic parents and get him checked out 'just in case' and that we got in to see an insightful Doctor who didn't fob us off, anyway yeah, thankfully we got him in hospital before the attack attacked!!

It has now been confirmed that Luke is 'seriously asthmatic', that whenever he gets a cold 9 times out of 10 he WILL end up in hospital, but if he follows the rules (puff of inhaler morning and night and before sports) it shouldn't affect his day to day quality of life.

It's been really strange because as a child I struggled with asthma too, but I can hardly remember anything. But going thro' this with Luke us bringing back small memories like I used to collect my hospital ID bracelets like they were something really precious, and I have one memory that involves tomato sauce and mash potato (both of which i hate!) and my Mum smuggling in biscuits for me to munch on (nothing new there then), so its all been really bizarre. Despite everything though I have not got any bad memories of when i was ill so it's kinda comforting for the future for Luke, also I know he's in safe hands, HIS HANDS!

So now we're home, the last 4 hours have been really hard, Luke has been sat in the same space for 48 hours and is now feeling heaps better, plus the ventolin is like giving him a shot of caffeine (!!!) so in hospital waiting for the Doc he was bouncing off the walls. Then his little brother came too, and I think he, in his own little way, was saying "Hi, its my turn for attention now!" because he was being a proper little drama queen, throwing himself of the floor, making his point in a very 'nearly two year old way'. SO when the Doc eventually came I was looking at her longing her to pity me and send us home and she jokingly said "You Mum's are never happy!" Ouch! But its so true, here I was complaining that my little boys were simply being little boys and reacting to the situations they have found themselves in the only way they know how. But in my defence, it was coming the the end of 2 very long days and I was just longing to get my little guys home, so we could all go to sleep and start over again. Meanwhile, Pete is doing his night shift =((

When I was first told Luke had to be admitted and throughout all of the last two days I've had to be strong for Luke, his first visit to hospital was really daunting for him, so I had to be brave especially since most of the time I wasn't with Pete. But its been ok and Pete, love him, is working, my boys are tucked up peacefully in bed and even now I'm sat her on my own, I still haven't shed a tear which if you know me is very un-me! I feel incredibly proud of Luke, he was so brave and so cute all the Docs and Nurses would comment how sweet he is and compare him to either the Milky Bar kid or Stuart Little! I keep going in and watch his breathing but I'm so aware that there is very little I can do, except trust, so once again I think I should say "Thank you Lord" =0)

Impending motherhood

2007-05-01T08:15:00.000+01:00

Hey,
Just been thinking...one of my friends is (hopefully) in labour as I post this and I really think she and her husband are going to make amazing parents. They are already fantastic to our boys and show them so much love so I know they are just gonna be bessotted with their little bundle of joy.

But anyway, I've been thinking about the changes that happen at some point during the nine months pregnancy and the learning curve that is 'being a Mum'. SO here's a few that I can think of, they are not in any kind of order, just how my mind comes up with them... which will be pretty random! I'd love you to comment and share any that you can think of too!

Why is it that we go from being polite girlies to women who seem able to talk about POO (mainly our childrens') for an incredibly long time... describing the poo incidents that babies and toddlers seem to be drawn too, the times we've been caught out, the effect that certain foods have on the nappy area, the colours, the consistencies... I know, its really sad, isn't it? I really hope this isn't just me!!
Since I have fallen pregnant and had my boys I have developed a freaky use for my toes. Seriously, ask my hubby and some of my friends, I can pick up most things with my feet, paper, money, clothes (I always drop one sock when I pick up the washing), basically anything. I don't believe in evolution but in my case I have evolved the dextrous (?) use of my toes to enable me to multi task more effectively.
Still along the lines of multi-tasking, I can have a relatively complex conversation on the phone while, doing tea, shouting at the boys, have conversations with my hubby, pick up toys, wash up, put washing on, even change a nappy, (but I'd never have a wee when on the phone, honest!). =o))
Before the boys, even the post man hadn't even seen me without full eye make up, hair blow dried etc. Now he leaves the mail at the end of the garden for fear of seeing me in all my early morning glory!
Emotional! I am soooo emotional, I'm alright with sad things on the telly unless it involves ill children and that's it, I'm gone!
I have always been pretty friendly but since becoming a Mum I seem to be able to strike up friendships with complete strangers, and could possibly talk to them for hours purely because they're child is a similar age to mine.
I was always really scared of needles, check ups and especially examinations, but now after having 2 babies I'm no longer wussy (apart from in the dentist!) and I can even be quite tough, examinations now? Whatever, just get on with it!
Me and my husband seem to only talk when he's in the bath. The house is sooo mad to actually sit down and chat involves shouting over the top of the boys playing, singing, crying, wrestling each other etc, while playing catch or cooking tea, so we end up catching up with me sat on the toilet seat and my hubby wallowing in the bath.
I have the ability to sleep anywhere, anyhow, in anyones' company! I loooove sleep!
I have more lumps and bumps now that weren't there before and things don't seem to be in the same place now!
I've gone from having lovely shopping sprees to chucking my clothes in the trolley at the supermarket, Asda rules!
Socialising... going to the pub, drinking alcohol (not that I could handle it before!), going to the cinema, etc. etc. is all alien to me.
But the main change is I'm happier and more fulfilled and more blessed than ever!

Nat you're gonna love it!

Del

xxxxxxxxxx

Enough- Chris Tomlin

2007-04-26T20:29:00.000+01:00

All of You is more than enough for all of me

For every thirst and every need

You satisfy me with Your love

And all I have in You is more than enough

You are my supply

My breath of life

And still more awesome than I know

You're the coming King

You are everything

And still more awesome than I know

All of You is more than enough for all of me

For every thirst and every need

You satisfy me with Your love

And all I have in You is more than enough

You're my sacrifice Of greatest price

And still more awesome than I know

You're the coming King

You are everything

And still more awesome than I know

More than all I want

More than all I need

You are more than enough for me

More than all I know

More than all I can say

You are more than enough for me

Busy little bee!

2007-04-26T19:27:00.000+01:00

Hey,
It's been a really good day today one of those hard work but rewarding days. This morning we got to work spring cleaning, to look at our house you wouldn't think it needed it but I'm a bit of a "Monica" and I have all my mess hidden away in cupboards. So today I've been unearthing all my mess starting in Josh's room, the room that I thought had the least work, boy was I wrong. After a massive move around and clear out of all baby things (that was harder than I thought in more ways than one - but I was strong...ish!) it's now looking beautiful. So I intended to do all the downstairs today and in fact I managed about a third, but hey, its a start, and what's that verse... "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin" Zech 4:10... and there's always tomorrow!

Been really thinking lately about what I should do when Josh starts school, I always have worked and pretty much enjoyed it. I don't really have a career as my job was "being a Mum" before my career really got off the ground. I've dabbled in banking (wasn't much good at that!) and I enjoy customer service, so what do I do now? I guess the question should be what can I do now? With my little boys in school, I need a job that allows me to first and foremost be there for them. There's so many things I would like to do like photography, journalism, full-time blogger... (that sounds good!) I would like a job where I can make a difference, use the skills I've got and not try to be anything I'm not. But being sensible i think a job in their school would be best so I'm gonna speak to the school about retraining as a classroom assistant, this would tick the boxes cos I like being creative, organising stuff, working with children AND it fits in to our life, I still get summer hols with our boys and don't have to juggle child care.

So yeah, there it is, the next thing is actually geting off my but and doing something about it, of course that's all very good but there might not be any vacancies in 18months time, so I'm trusting God to guide me, open/close doors as necessary. He has always led me to the right job at the right time in the past (I moved jobs before I knew my Mum was diagnosed with cancer which meant that my shifts weren't as long and she was able to fit babysitting Luke around her treatment... see? God knew!) and I'm trusting He will do that again, in His timing which is good because I'm always late!

Anyway, I've probably bored you for long enough now,
Much love,
Del
=o)

Normal service resumed

2007-04-25T15:41:00.000+01:00

Aaaaah! Sleeeep! I now feel like Dellie again, so I will get my brain together now and start on the next stage of my daily routine - tea time, cleaning up tea time, bed time, cleaning up after daytime!

Sometimes we are just so tired or so busy that things can just go unnoticed, things that are really precious and that I know one day I will really miss. For example, Luke used to have a problem saying "th" so instead of "Can I have another one?" Luke would say "Mummy, can I have an ugger one, please?" And one day, I don't even know when, but he stopped and is now speaking like a grown up!

Right now, I have a little boy trying to eat Smarties with a soup spoon saying "Ma-mmy, Ma-mmy!" And sometimes (especially in the night!) that little call can be a little wearing, but most of the time it makes me melt. And one day, he's gonna start to yell "Mu-uum" like his older brother, and I will be wishing for "Ma-mmy".

So I guess, by writing these little things down its not for those of you who read this, its for me being selfish and making sure that they are kept forever, so expect more little funny stories as and when they come...

So so tired!

2007-04-25T13:00:00.003+01:00

Why is that as parents you're extactic when you're little darlings decide to sleep though the night. This happened for Luke at 8 weeks (amazing I know!) but Josh at approx. 88 weeks!! So after waking up 3 or 4 times a night for so long for him to sleep all night was heavenly and I have felt so much more energised and ready to take on whatever the day throws at me. But how cruel then is it that suddenly he starts to wake up again... before I could cope because I was used to it but now...uurgh! He woke me up 4 times, Luke woke me up twice, and so did Pete (to ask where his pillow was???!!!) What is it a conspiracy? So today I've got my lovely hubby home wev'e been having a little browse around the shops, had breakfast out, happy? No, I'm tired! I really feel for people who work nights like Pete, I don't think I have the genetic make up to do something like that, or am I just being a wimp!

I sound really ungrateful don't I? But with very little sleep I seem unable to function as a human being let alone being a Mum, wife, cleaner, chef, taxi, friend, daughter... Is it just me?

I will be back and post some deep and meaningful thought, but right now, I'm gonna have a nap!
ZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz =o)

Just saying Hi!

2007-04-23T23:50:00.000+01:00

I've got a lovely warm fuzzy feeling in my tummy, think its called contentment, plus its late and I'm a bit dozey. I never thought I would get this much pleasure from doing a blog. But looking at this blog, which highlights the best bits in my life, all my favourite things, it makes me realise how blessed I truly am.

There is something really theraputic about doing this, I've never been much good at keeping diaries, but by sharing all this stuff it really helps me remember who I am, because this blog is really who I am, I think? I am trying to be myself which is why it can be a bit scatty at times, but anyway, if your reading this... then thanks!

Del :op

Ooh! By the way, check out the snazzy video bar at the bottom of the page!

For Heather!

2007-04-20T13:59:00.000+01:00

Hey Girlies!

Just had to post this, its just been brought to my attention by Charity

If you are a yummy mummy and like to read about other peoples parenting tales then Boo Mama is great. On Boo Mama they are currently highlighting the plight of www.especiallyhea th er.com . Heather just received some devastating news, she has an inoperable brain tumor. Go read her story if you are so inclined. BooMama has set up a place, just go to www.boomama.net and click on the picture like the one here, read whats going on and help Heather's family out if you feel led to do so. But more than anything, say a prayer for Heather and her family.

Thanks, Del

xxx

Just a little thought...

2007-04-20T13:02:00.000+01:00

John Wesley said,

"Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as you ever can."

All better now!

2007-04-20T12:37:00.000+01:00

Hey,
Sorry to not let you know sooner but its been mad here, Pete is ok after his op. After the expected discomfort, swelling etc has subsided he does have horrenous ulcers now which is proving to be worse than the tooth pain. It has been alot better than both of us expected,and thankfully he's booked this week off so now I've now cracked the whip and he's building my lovely decking, so if you close your eyes, and concentrate you can smell the beautiful bbq smells just around the corner... it won't be long now! Yum!
Del
xxxx
Oh yeah, here's a photo of Pete's pride and joy, the offending teeth he brought home in a jar, for you all to see?

D Day!

2007-04-14T08:32:00.000+01:00

Okay, so at this moment Pete is currently under the knife (or chisel... eeeew!). He left at 6.30 this morning after his night shift to go and have his wisdom teeth removed. I've not really slept last night so really should get some kip while the boys are still asleep, but I just can't. I know he's gonna be ok, but its just not nice thinking about it.

Anyways, will update you when he gets back. In the meantime here's a photo of him with his buddy looking pretty cool, because somehow I don't think he will look like this when he comes home!

Happy Easter!

2007-04-11T20:41:00.000+01:00

I know it's a bit late but HAPPY EASTER!

Thought you might like this...

Luke going to nursery last Easter, how cute is he?

As promised...

2007-04-06T21:10:00.000+01:00

Well, I did promise and Luke's provided a funny story for me to share...

Luke spent the day on thursday with his Nanny and Bampi in Cardiff Bay, he thought it was amazing going on a bus! Anyway while waiting for the bus to come home he was sat on a seat with his Nan watching the people go by. He saw a lady who was wearing robes, he turned to his Nan and said...

"Look Nanny that lady is from Bethlehem!"

Aaah bless!

Del :D

Reflections...

2007-04-04T21:25:00.001+01:00

Ok, so we have chocolates, egg hunts, bank holidays, family times, and many other traditions specific to you and your family... but what is easter? Yeah, some people might even go to church this weekend and think about what happened at this time of the year, but is that enough?

Surely, the reality of easter should be a daily reality if its going to mean anything at all. For His death to mean anything, the pain, suffering, unfairness, the end... reminising on this once a year? Isn't that just an insult?

I really struggle with Good Friday. How pathetic is that?
To me, its gruesome, uncomfortable and in some ways unnecessary.
I can relate far better to a gentle, kind, strong Lord with eyes of love as oppossed to a body that is battered, bruised, abused.
I would rather spend Good Friday enjoying a lovely spring bank holiday.

However, in the grand scheme of things it was entirely necessary, without Good Friday we wouldn't have Easter sunday and yeah the families, children and chocolate too
(yeah, especially chocolate).

Yeah it was unfair for an pure, wholy innocent man to be framed, flogged and finished and what's that saying... truth prevails? Did it really, I suppose if you value stuff that fades away rather than something that is eternal then yeah it was a tragedy. But armed with the knowledge that death isn't just death, that death can mean life... all of a sudden the unfairness, the unnecessariness of it all fades, because He overcame the guy with the whip, he overcame the people who took the side of the murderer, He crushed the guy with the nails and truth fought back.

He had the ultimate revenge, when they thought it was finished, close the book, end of story...
the story was just beginning for the rest of us and the real truth was revealed to the world.

So Good Friday services can be uncomfortable, but Easter Sunday is more than just comfortable,
its a celebration of His reliability, its not just a triumph over unfairness its a miracle, the impossible became entirely possible and not just for one man, it could happen for every one of us. Your past has gone and your future has arrived. A future that is fair, reliable, stable, exciting and eternal. All this because of one man.

What am I gonna do this Good Friday, still don't really know? But whatever happens I'll never forget what He's done... for ME.

Ok, normal Del back now, I know this post has been a bit heavy but it's good to reflect sometimes so tomorrow I'll be back with some funny story about the boys ...

2007-04-04T21:14:00.000+01:00

Sun, sun, sun!!!

At last... and it feels great.
Finally, I'm feeling refreshed, energised and like I should be!
We're getting out and about, catching up with friends, having some lovely fresh air...
And what's even better is its just the beginning, there's a long summer ahead of us!

So yeah... all's good!
:D

My lovely Pete!

2007-03-30T23:02:00.000+01:00

Pete mentioned earlier that there's not many photos of him on my blog so just to show him he's forever in my thoughts even when he's nights... here he is my lovely Pete (just be grateful I didn't show the other photos from Nat and Tim's wedding... he's got the moves!)

P.S. I'll show you the dancing photos some other time, shhh!

What next?

2007-03-30T16:51:00.000+01:00

Well, just thought I'd update you since my last post, sorry its not been sooner but if it had i would've written a book cos a lot has happened... now I've calmed down I'll just summarise...

Josh actually had German measles which i think Luke may now have, I seem to have spent the week on the phone chasing up forms and general incompetent people, on Monday we had 2 rooms decorated, we've also had the car MOT'd, I've had blood tests and friend made me a beautiful desert, the steps are now finished... oh yeah and Pete was taken to A&E with chest pains and he needs to see a cardiologist, and the Dr asked Pete did he have a cocaine problem, Great...!!

But that's "life with Pete and Adele" for you!
Other than that there's not much else interesting to say so...
See ya x

PS. By the way the answer to the Docs question was 'no' just incase you were wondering ;P

Aaaaaaah!

2007-03-25T08:20:00.000+01:00

"Chickenpox may start out seeming like a cold: You might have a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a cough. But 1 to 2 days later, the rash begins, often in bunches of spots on the chest and face. At first, the rash looks like pinkish dots that quickly develop a small blister on top (a blister is a bump on your skin that fills up with fluid). After about 24 to 48 hours, the fluid in the blisters gets cloudy and the blisters begin to crust over."

Can you believe it! After reading my other posts about us finally being healthy and finally being able to go out and socialise again... Josh has spots = (
He's got about 4 in a row on his face that are like little blisters but his tummy is plastered in fine blotches that have lots of potential to become blisters... I could cry!!

And our friend is very pregnant and was playing with Josh last night... SORRY NAT!!

Great...! Do you know what...? I'm speechless!
Yeah I know, that's how gutted I am.

So watch this space, I know its best for him to get it over with, but pur...lease, GIVE ME A BREAK! And do you know what else, I don't think Luke's had it either... GREAT!
Del
:'(

Bored?

2007-03-24T07:14:00.000Z

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Spaggy Josh!

2007-03-22T18:38:00.000Z

Just thought this might make you smile!

The future...?

2007-03-22T07:43:00.000Z

"Have you had sweeties?"
"No Mummy"
"Really?"
"No Mummy!"
"Ok"

"Mummy, can i have a wet wipe?"
"Yes lovely, why do you want a wet wipe?"
"The sweets made my hands sticky"
SPRUNG!!

It hit me today that that is the worst thing thing these little boys can get up to at the moment, they are so innocent, so sweet, and yet even now their little minds are developing that little thing called "free will". Ever since we found out we were gonna be parents we've endeavered to instill in them all that is right and good and we will keep on doing so. And their little hearts are so receptive, Luke doesn't question any of the Bible stories we tell him, he does'nt doubt when we ask God to make him better if he's poorly, even when being taught all about Hinduism and many gods he said "We don't need all those gods do we Mummy, our God can even move a tree!" Its our biggest hope in life that they will grow up happy, healthy and trusting in our God in their lives. And that's all we can do too, is trust God.

But its been brought to our attention lately about what's really going on out there in the big bad world. We will expect a little teenage rebellion, we've all been there and done that, and what's the worst we got up to? Now, there are areas right on our doorstep that after dark, make the big city areas look like nunnaries. There seems to so little parental advice, care and love for these teenagers that they are hooked on the adrenaline of doing as much damage to themselves, other people and other things and are pushing the limits everyday. A sneaky cigarette, a naughty swig of alcohol...seems so tame compared to twelve year olds commiting armed robbery, orgies in the park, drug taking, becoming alcoholics all this before they leave secondry school. And even scarier... if its got this bad in the ten years since we've left school, what sort of world will our boys be living in, what peer pressure will they be facing???

What do we do? Shelter them? Make them aware so they can make informed decisions themselves?
Its terryifying. I've never really thought about home schooling because I would be concerned about the social side they would be missing out on. But after seeing one family doing it really succesfully and bringing up for children to become well rounded, stable, God following teenagers, it certainly has its advantages.

But hey? That's all in the future... so I guess we just have keep on keeping on, and trust them that they will know right from wrong and trust God to guide them in His way.

In the meantine, please pray for Sebastopol...
Del
xxx

FRUSTRATION!

2007-03-21T10:27:00.000Z

Why is it that our little boy is spending half his life crying...?
He's fine one minute and we're commenting how happy he is, then in the next breath he's walking over to the setee and with his bottom lip sticking out he's doing his very obvious, well rehersed sulking routine. Most of the time this is very cute and its really hard to show how hilarious it is, at other times it can be really tiring and really loud.

As a Mum the first thing I do is blame myself, have I been too soft on him...have I not been giving him enough attention...or too much...am I not following the advice of the programmes on the tv that seem to sort out behavoural problems in under half an hour... aaaaah!!

Anyway, putting my sensible, rational head on (yeah I can do that occasionally!) I think all his problems are pure and simple frustration, he's got a mouthful of sharp things that are REALLY hurting him, his big brother is so much bigger than him and seems to always have his way (plus, he has all the really cool toys), there is so much stuff going around in his little head but he just can't seem to make us understand what it is he wants or needs right now and occasionally when he is content doing something it always seems to be something that's naughty and he gets told off for it! Bless him! It's a hard life being 1 1/2!!

Update...

2007-03-20T11:58:00.000Z

Hey,
Just thought I'd check in and say hi!

Sssssh... I'm almost scared to say it but for the first time this year, we are all ok!!! Apart for the odd rosie cheek due to teething (to be expected, i suppose!) none of us are sniffing or coughing... AND, I'm starting to feel more like myself again to, its a slow process, but I'm starting to feel stronger... Yey!! Perhaps, we can do a bit of living, get out and see some people and have some fresh air, instead of being couped up, popping pills to make us better.

But... (and like my own, its a rather large one) on April 7th Pete is going to have surgery to remove his wisdom teeth, I won't go into it much but the word "chisel" has been used and in relation to teeth and bones it freaks me out a bit, and you know what men and pain are like! So yeah, we're gonna enjoy the next few weeks of healthiness, please pray for Pete's op because it does sound pretty scary.

Update on the building work... we have walls and a beautiful path! It's so nice i want to hoover ('vacuum' for my american friends) it :D But our back garden is now completely wrecked as our steps are rebuilt. But I suppose its gotta get worse to get better. In a month, hopefully, it'll be looking beautiful and we can start to enjoy it and get the BBQ started!

Anyway, that's about it, no more disasters with Josh, although I am trying the "controlled crying" thing in the night to teach him not to wake up so much, which is v.v. hard and I'm sure our neighbours are concerned by the noise but its for their benefit too... and I'm sure all you Mum's know... I NEED SLEEP! Oh, we did have a little incident with Luke, a Swing ball bat and his little friend Ethan's nose, but, hey, that's little boys for you!

Other than that the boys are getting cuter every day. Luke in his little glasses is discovering the art of socialising and wants to be playing with his friends all the time (that's when he's not accidently bashing them) and he thinks he's getting a real grown up. And Josh is starting to really talk and understand things we're saying and getting a cheeky little personality like the other males in this house.

So I'll stop boring you now, I'm gonna go and enjoy the sunshine - before it snows again ;D

Del
x