I had always thought "holiday cheer" was a figure of speech, as a way to encourage others to be joyful around Christmastime. Micah took this phrase literally and actually gave us a "holiday cheer" on Christmas. :-)
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Family Update :-)
Greetings from Michigan!
That’s right, after 5+ years in the wonderful and crazy “Windy City,” we decided to move to be closer to family (Scott’s parents and sister live here). We’ve been in the Grand Rapids area for a month now and absolutely love it; Scott’s parents have been gracious enough to let us live in their home while we get familiar with our new turf. Chicago will always hold a special place in our hearts. So much took place there – college, falling in love, our first full-time jobs, marriage, and having a baby! God was so good to us as we began our family in the city, we are confident that He will continue to do so here in Michigan.
This year began with a then 4-month old Micah finally sleeping through the night, :-) Scott busy at work in a new position at Breakthrough, and Bekah putting in some hours for Breakthrough at home while being full-time mom. These roles all pretty much stayed the same throughout the year, yet there were many milestones and travels that made 2008 a very full and adventurous year!
Our milestones varied, from Scott’s 3-year mark for working at Breakthrough Urban Ministries in March, our 2-year wedding anniversary in July, and Micah’s 1st birthday in September. Micah’s really the one with all the rest of the milestones this year – first tooth at 6 months, first crawl to dad at 10 months, first steps at 14 months…
As for our travels, we were able to make a couple trips to CA for Bekah’s sister’s graduation, and, unfortunately, her grandfather’s funeral; a trip to AZ to visit Scott’s family before they moved to MI; and a trip to PA for Micah to meet his great grandpa and grandma Ruth for the first time. By the time it was all said and done, Micah had flown on 12 airplanes!! This kid sure gets around. We also had some family visit Chicago, and it was always such a joy to see them with Micah, so they too could laugh at his goofiness and be wooed by his baby blue eyes.
As 2008 comes to a close, we look back over the year and are so thankful for how God has taken care of us, both in Chicago and now in our transition to Michigan. We look forward to 2009, and wait in anticipation for the adventures ahead that He has planned for us. Scott is now working for a company called Ministry Sync, setting up new clients on their web-based event-management software (www.ministrysync.com). He also continues his web design work on the side (www.scottymanmedia.com). Bekah continues to be a stay-at-home mom with Micah, and is enjoying watching him grow up into a funny, tender little toddler. As for Micah, his 12th tooth is coming in, and he enjoys walking around in his new sneakers. Oh yes, and antagonizing grandpa and grandma’s 4 Pomeranians upstairs.
Please keep in touch! We hope you all are doing well and we thank the Lord for your friendship. May you be encouraged by God’s great love for you in 2009!
With much love,
Scott, Bekah and Micah
ruthreflections.blogspot.com
That’s right, after 5+ years in the wonderful and crazy “Windy City,” we decided to move to be closer to family (Scott’s parents and sister live here). We’ve been in the Grand Rapids area for a month now and absolutely love it; Scott’s parents have been gracious enough to let us live in their home while we get familiar with our new turf. Chicago will always hold a special place in our hearts. So much took place there – college, falling in love, our first full-time jobs, marriage, and having a baby! God was so good to us as we began our family in the city, we are confident that He will continue to do so here in Michigan. This year began with a then 4-month old Micah finally sleeping through the night, :-) Scott busy at work in a new position at Breakthrough, and Bekah putting in some hours for Breakthrough at home while being full-time mom. These roles all pretty much stayed the same throughout the year, yet there were many milestones and travels that made 2008 a very full and adventurous year!
Our milestones varied, from Scott’s 3-year mark for working at Breakthrough Urban Ministries in March, our 2-year wedding anniversary in July, and Micah’s 1st birthday in September. Micah’s really the one with all the rest of the milestones this year – first tooth at 6 months, first crawl to dad at 10 months, first steps at 14 months…
As for our travels, we were able to make a couple trips to CA for Bekah’s sister’s graduation, and, unfortunately, her grandfather’s funeral; a trip to AZ to visit Scott’s family before they moved to MI; and a trip to PA for Micah to meet his great grandpa and grandma Ruth for the first time. By the time it was all said and done, Micah had flown on 12 airplanes!! This kid sure gets around. We also had some family visit Chicago, and it was always such a joy to see them with Micah, so they too could laugh at his goofiness and be wooed by his baby blue eyes.
As 2008 comes to a close, we look back over the year and are so thankful for how God has taken care of us, both in Chicago and now in our transition to Michigan. We look forward to 2009, and wait in anticipation for the adventures ahead that He has planned for us. Scott is now working for a company called Ministry Sync, setting up new clients on their web-based event-management software (www.ministrysync.com). He also continues his web design work on the side (www.scottymanmedia.com). Bekah continues to be a stay-at-home mom with Micah, and is enjoying watching him grow up into a funny, tender little toddler. As for Micah, his 12th tooth is coming in, and he enjoys walking around in his new sneakers. Oh yes, and antagonizing grandpa and grandma’s 4 Pomeranians upstairs.
Please keep in touch! We hope you all are doing well and we thank the Lord for your friendship. May you be encouraged by God’s great love for you in 2009!
With much love,
Scott, Bekah and Micah
ruthreflections.blogspot.com
Packages, People and Piles of Snow
Packages: Yesterday the 4 Pomeranians started yapping upstairs, so I knew something was up - we had received some packages at the front door from UPS. Two big brown boxes full of Christmas gifts from my family back in California. As I started unloading the boxes to put the presents under the tree I started crying. They could be empty containers wrapped in Christmas paper for all I knew, but the fact that they were from my family made me happy-sad. Happy (and thankful) that I have such a great family who loves us, and sad because I will not be with them for the holidays. Don't get me wrong, I am looking forward to a Ruth family Christmas here in MI, but it's just too bad that the west coast is so far away so that I can't drop in on the Sovilla family festivities for their CA Christmas.
People: Yesterday great grandpa and grandma Ruth arrived via train from PA. They'll be here through Sunday. Let me tell you, these folks are great! Scotty and I were able to visit them in August so Micah could meet his great grandparents, but it was also just a good excuse to spend some time with Scotty's fun and friendly grandparents. Since yesterday, we've already heard their tales from their 13+ hour train ride, laughed with them at Micah, and enjoyed good conversations over Christmas goodies (thanks for baking them, Lisa)! :-)
Piles of Snow: Boy oh boy, Michigan really knows how to do winter! We've gotten TONS of snow, and my "first snow day" has already turned into a couple days of being housebound. Our church service was actually canceled on Sunday, and rumor has it tonight's Christmas Eve service may also face the same fate. There are piles of snow all over the place, and the mounds alongside the driveway and sidewalk just keep growing as we plow and shovel everyday...this is definitely going to be a white Christmas!
Merry Christmas everyone! (And Happy Birthday to my one and only brother-in-law, Greg)! :-)
People: Yesterday great grandpa and grandma Ruth arrived via train from PA. They'll be here through Sunday. Let me tell you, these folks are great! Scotty and I were able to visit them in August so Micah could meet his great grandparents, but it was also just a good excuse to spend some time with Scotty's fun and friendly grandparents. Since yesterday, we've already heard their tales from their 13+ hour train ride, laughed with them at Micah, and enjoyed good conversations over Christmas goodies (thanks for baking them, Lisa)! :-)
Piles of Snow: Boy oh boy, Michigan really knows how to do winter! We've gotten TONS of snow, and my "first snow day" has already turned into a couple days of being housebound. Our church service was actually canceled on Sunday, and rumor has it tonight's Christmas Eve service may also face the same fate. There are piles of snow all over the place, and the mounds alongside the driveway and sidewalk just keep growing as we plow and shovel everyday...this is definitely going to be a white Christmas! Merry Christmas everyone! (And Happy Birthday to my one and only brother-in-law, Greg)! :-)
Friday, December 19, 2008
Snowed in!!!
This California girl is entering her 6th winter, but living in the snow can still seem like a new experience at times. Earlier this month, I helped shovel a driveway for the first time in my life, and just today, I experienced my first real "Snow Day." Though Lisa and Amanda cleaned the driveway, sidewalk and back deck of the 7-10+ inches of snow we got this morning, the streets weren't plowed all day. There's no way our 4-door sedan could've left the neighborhood - so I can actually say that I have officially been "snowed in." :-)
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Goofing off with Grandma' s Glasses
Micah just loves having a good time. Especially when he can make someone else laugh. He definitely had grandma Ruth cracking up while he was wearing her glasses the other night. Good thing grandma Sovilla has glasses too - Micah will have to try them on for size next time we're in California. :-)
Micah's first pair of shoes!
Micah's been successfully walking for about a month now, so it was high time he got a pair of sneakers. So he and I found a good pair for him at Target last week. He loves them!! Here's a family photo, just moments after Micah put his new shoes on for the first time, before our family outing (please pardon the fact that we are all red-eyed monsters). 
Our family outing was to the library, and Micah loved that too (just about as much as those new shoes). :-) What kid wouldn't love the library with cool toys such as this one? I can remember these maze-like toys from my childhood at the Dr. office, Supercuts, etc...some toys just never go away, because they are just that cool...
"Uncle" Luke-Man
Last week our good friend, Luke, came to visit us in Michigan (he still lives in Chicago). Luke-man (or so we call him) and us go way back...Scott and him were college roommates, then bachelors together for a year before Scott and I got married. He was the best man in our wedding party, and a good friend and fellow Chicagon the past few years. He was actually the first visitor who met Micah when he was born (aside from hospital staff) on Micah's day of birth over a year ago. And, he is the last visitor we had in Chicago, the night before we moved here to Michigan.
Luke's a close enough friend to call "uncle" for Micah. My in-laws know him, Amanda is also good friends with him, and Scotty, Micah and I can't get enough of him. So, "uncle" Luke came last week, and it was enjoyable for all of us! We didn't do more than chillaxin' - eating, talking, watching movies, but it was great. Here's some documentation of Micah's time with "uncle" Luke.
Luke's a close enough friend to call "uncle" for Micah. My in-laws know him, Amanda is also good friends with him, and Scotty, Micah and I can't get enough of him. So, "uncle" Luke came last week, and it was enjoyable for all of us! We didn't do more than chillaxin' - eating, talking, watching movies, but it was great. Here's some documentation of Micah's time with "uncle" Luke.
That was kind
Just a moment ago, the four Pomeranians started their yapping upstairs because there was someone at the door. Lisa came down to get me, and told me it was a visitor for me. Me? Are you sure? I don't know anybody yet. Must be a delivery man for a Christmas package or something.
It was actually two women from my church in the middle of their morning run, one of whom lives on the next street over. She had come with a Christmas Eve service invitation with a personalized note attached, and a bag of mocha cappuccino. They also asked if I was going to make it to women's Bible today, and had noted that they missed seeing me on Sunday.
Wow, how very thoughtful! And the truth is, I've only visited Pathway Church 2-3 times, and women's Bible study 1 time. Though Scott and I have decided that this is our new "home church," we're still new-bees! Yet, they still were so kind as to swing by to see how I was doing.
This is what it means to be in the family of God, and involved in a church that is a real community. There are loving and giving people who sincerely care about you - even if you're the new kid on the block.
That was just so kind of them.
It was actually two women from my church in the middle of their morning run, one of whom lives on the next street over. She had come with a Christmas Eve service invitation with a personalized note attached, and a bag of mocha cappuccino. They also asked if I was going to make it to women's Bible today, and had noted that they missed seeing me on Sunday.
Wow, how very thoughtful! And the truth is, I've only visited Pathway Church 2-3 times, and women's Bible study 1 time. Though Scott and I have decided that this is our new "home church," we're still new-bees! Yet, they still were so kind as to swing by to see how I was doing.
This is what it means to be in the family of God, and involved in a church that is a real community. There are loving and giving people who sincerely care about you - even if you're the new kid on the block.
That was just so kind of them.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Water is funny, just ask Micah...
...especially from a fridge. (Maybe it's his way of telling grandpa Sovilla "Happy Birthday"). :-)
Monday, November 24, 2008
Head Nodder
Aside from signing "please" and "more," Micah also knows how to get a good laugh out of us - nodding his head and raising his eyebrows. We have quite the character on our hands...
Sunday, November 23, 2008
"Who you vote for?"
Though the elections were almost 3 weeks ago, I wanted to share my voting experience as a sequel to my voting story for the primaries back in February...
Scott and I decided to walk over to our polling place together and cast our vote before he headed off to work. So at just a few minutes to 8:00 a.m., my little family of 3 strolled over to our polling place. Memories came back to my mind as I recalled what took place last time I voted here on February 5th. I had learned my lesson that day - ask to vote electronically from the get-go, so as not to draw unwanted attention to myself in case I am handed the wrong party's ballot and have to return it, ask for my party's ballot, discover they don't have any, then opt to vote electronically...wow, that was quite a February 5th.
We arrived in a matter of minutes, and were thankful to find that the line wasn't too long. We inched our way up to the front and one of the first things I said was "We'd like to vote electronically. Thank you." We stepped in line for the electronic machine (one off in the corner), while a man took an incredibly long time reading through every single name on the ballot (there were about a gazillion judges or something, I later found out, that I just skipped over)...
It was my turn to vote, and the first thing I did was incorrect. I didn't put my card in all the way and they had to re-boot the machine. Oh please, oh please work, machine! I am so sorry for offending you. Please work. I don't want to have to ask for my party's ballot in front of all these people who I know are voting differently than me and make for another embarrassing situation!
Phew, it was a very forgive machine and booted up again nicely.
Unfortunately, there was a gentlemen in between me and Scott, so Micah and I had to chill out while Scott waited his turn to vote. My fear that this voting experience may be as awkward as my first began to depart, as I realized this process was almost over and I could leave soon, unembarrassed.
I was mistaken...
While we waited for Scott's turn to vote, I saw two familiar neighborhood kids walk into the building, being no more than 7 years old. I knew them by name, so I thought I'd say hello. Oh, I didn't have too. They came right up to us and, in front of everyone there, asked,
Boy:
Who you vote for?
Me:
[I'm taken aback and scramble for words]
Well, hi there! How's your grandma doing?
Boy:
[blatant disregard for my question]
Who you vote for?
Me:
[trying to turn the table]
Who would you vote for if you could vote?
Boy:
[quick reply, then]
Who you vote for?
Me:
[trying to change the subject]
Hey, are you still involved in the Breakthrough program, how's that going?
Boy:
[head nod, then]
Who you vote for?
Me:
[really uncomfortable as I feel all eyes on us, and ears listening, knowing that everyone around is catching on to the fact that I didn't vote the way they did]
It's a secret.
Boy:
[being obnoxious]
Who you vote for?
This went on for awhile, and boy was it awful. He was being so persistent! He knew what he was doing - making me squirm! Eventually Scott got through the electronic voting system, and we high-tailed it out of there. Boy, was that boy the cause for voter intimidation, or what?!
What's the count for embarrassing, uncomfortable, awkward voting experiences at my polling place? 2 for 2. Maybe next time I'll vote from home on an absentee ballot...
Scott and I decided to walk over to our polling place together and cast our vote before he headed off to work. So at just a few minutes to 8:00 a.m., my little family of 3 strolled over to our polling place. Memories came back to my mind as I recalled what took place last time I voted here on February 5th. I had learned my lesson that day - ask to vote electronically from the get-go, so as not to draw unwanted attention to myself in case I am handed the wrong party's ballot and have to return it, ask for my party's ballot, discover they don't have any, then opt to vote electronically...wow, that was quite a February 5th.
We arrived in a matter of minutes, and were thankful to find that the line wasn't too long. We inched our way up to the front and one of the first things I said was "We'd like to vote electronically. Thank you." We stepped in line for the electronic machine (one off in the corner), while a man took an incredibly long time reading through every single name on the ballot (there were about a gazillion judges or something, I later found out, that I just skipped over)...
It was my turn to vote, and the first thing I did was incorrect. I didn't put my card in all the way and they had to re-boot the machine. Oh please, oh please work, machine! I am so sorry for offending you. Please work. I don't want to have to ask for my party's ballot in front of all these people who I know are voting differently than me and make for another embarrassing situation!
Phew, it was a very forgive machine and booted up again nicely.
Unfortunately, there was a gentlemen in between me and Scott, so Micah and I had to chill out while Scott waited his turn to vote. My fear that this voting experience may be as awkward as my first began to depart, as I realized this process was almost over and I could leave soon, unembarrassed.
I was mistaken...
While we waited for Scott's turn to vote, I saw two familiar neighborhood kids walk into the building, being no more than 7 years old. I knew them by name, so I thought I'd say hello. Oh, I didn't have too. They came right up to us and, in front of everyone there, asked,
Boy:
Who you vote for?
Me:
[I'm taken aback and scramble for words]
Well, hi there! How's your grandma doing?
Boy:
[blatant disregard for my question]
Who you vote for?
Me:
[trying to turn the table]
Who would you vote for if you could vote?
Boy:
[quick reply, then]
Who you vote for?
Me:
[trying to change the subject]
Hey, are you still involved in the Breakthrough program, how's that going?
Boy:
[head nod, then]
Who you vote for?
Me:
[really uncomfortable as I feel all eyes on us, and ears listening, knowing that everyone around is catching on to the fact that I didn't vote the way they did]
It's a secret.
Boy:
[being obnoxious]
Who you vote for?
This went on for awhile, and boy was it awful. He was being so persistent! He knew what he was doing - making me squirm! Eventually Scott got through the electronic voting system, and we high-tailed it out of there. Boy, was that boy the cause for voter intimidation, or what?!
What's the count for embarrassing, uncomfortable, awkward voting experiences at my polling place? 2 for 2. Maybe next time I'll vote from home on an absentee ballot...
Blue Toboggan
Grandpa Ruth ran some errands today. When he came home, he had a surprise for Micah - a shiny, new toboggan to ride in when the snow comes...Micah loved being dragged around on it in the living room, so I bet he'll like it in a couple months outside in the snow!Wednesday, November 19, 2008
"In my own little corner, in my own little chair..."
Though Micah is not living the life of Lesley Ann Warren as Cinderella singing this famous song, he can appreciate her words...Upon arriving in Michigan last week, we discovered a belated birthday gift for Micah from grandpa and grandma Ruth - a little Lightning McQueen chair. He loves it. Couple the new chair with his bookshelf of toys, and he does indeed have his "own little corner" and his "own little chair."
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Walking!
I have much to write about our first week in MI, but for now, I wanted to post a video of Micah walking in his new home. He is so proud of himself, and we are too. :-)
Saturday, November 8, 2008
A somber, wonderful evening.
Last night was Breakthrough's Annual Benefit Dinner. This is the fourth one I've attended during Scott's 3 1/2 years of working for Breakthrough. And every year, the Benefit is wonderful. Great people, lots of energy, testimonies of changed lives, a great speaker, and the cute Breakthrough youth choir.
This year's Benefit started like any other - wonderful, full of life, and just plain fun (how could you not have fun sitting with a table of family and friends while eating incredibly delicious raspberry cheesecake for dessert)?
As the program started, each word lodged itself deep into my heart as I began to recall years of memories while being around Breakthrough. My heart also felt a slight ache as I heard Arloa (Breakthrough's Executive Director) speak of the future of Breakthrough as I realized I will not be around to see these future dreams become reality because Scott and I are leaving the Breakthrough family.
That's really what it has been at Scott's place of employment - a family. I can run into the office on any given day to say hi to Scott, and there will be a handful of people who stop and talk with me as well, and give Micah hugs and kisses. Though I'm not an employee at Breakthrough, I am part of the family there. And I am going to sorely miss them...the staff at the women's overnight shelter whom I got to know when Scott was volunteer coordinator and I, his then girlfriend, would tag along and chat with them...the admin staff whom I got to know through office visits to Scott...the youth staff whom I got to know through various volunteering opportunities...
Last night was a sweet reminder of God's goodness to us in being part of the supportive Breakthrough family. They saw Scott and I through dating, engagement, marriage, a baby, and now a move out of state. Last night was also a reminder that God is going to keep using the Breakthrough family to bless people, and Scott and I will not be around to be apart of that anymore.
So last night was a wonderful even, but with a somber overtone. I gave a received many a hug from my Breakthrough family members, and couldn't hold back tears as my heart hurt for the forthcoming separation from them.
Lord, please bless and keep them all in Your care. And please, Lord, continue to guide Scott and I in the way You'd have us go, though it may be hard.
This year's Benefit started like any other - wonderful, full of life, and just plain fun (how could you not have fun sitting with a table of family and friends while eating incredibly delicious raspberry cheesecake for dessert)?
As the program started, each word lodged itself deep into my heart as I began to recall years of memories while being around Breakthrough. My heart also felt a slight ache as I heard Arloa (Breakthrough's Executive Director) speak of the future of Breakthrough as I realized I will not be around to see these future dreams become reality because Scott and I are leaving the Breakthrough family.
That's really what it has been at Scott's place of employment - a family. I can run into the office on any given day to say hi to Scott, and there will be a handful of people who stop and talk with me as well, and give Micah hugs and kisses. Though I'm not an employee at Breakthrough, I am part of the family there. And I am going to sorely miss them...the staff at the women's overnight shelter whom I got to know when Scott was volunteer coordinator and I, his then girlfriend, would tag along and chat with them...the admin staff whom I got to know through office visits to Scott...the youth staff whom I got to know through various volunteering opportunities...
Last night was a sweet reminder of God's goodness to us in being part of the supportive Breakthrough family. They saw Scott and I through dating, engagement, marriage, a baby, and now a move out of state. Last night was also a reminder that God is going to keep using the Breakthrough family to bless people, and Scott and I will not be around to be apart of that anymore.
So last night was a wonderful even, but with a somber overtone. I gave a received many a hug from my Breakthrough family members, and couldn't hold back tears as my heart hurt for the forthcoming separation from them.
Lord, please bless and keep them all in Your care. And please, Lord, continue to guide Scott and I in the way You'd have us go, though it may be hard.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Checking out our new turf...
Over the weekend Scott, Micah and I drove up to MI. The purpose was for a job interview Scott had on Monday, but it was also a good excuse to get a feel for what it's going to be like living up there (in just 2 weeks)! The pictures chronicle our trip...
Micah "helping" grandma cook.
Jacob enjoying his new-found toy (he did that all on his own, after Micah discarded it on the ground)!
Micah "helping" grandpa let the dogs out.
Scott assembling his steller portfolio, in preparation for his job interview the next day.
Scott, just before he left for his job interview - doesn't he look incredible? Who wouldn't want to hire that hunk as a web/graphic designer?
Entering Chicago again...what a familiar view to us, yet it may have been the last time!
Micah "helping" grandma cook.
Jacob enjoying his new-found toy (he did that all on his own, after Micah discarded it on the ground)!
Micah "helping" grandpa let the dogs out.
Scott assembling his steller portfolio, in preparation for his job interview the next day.
Scott, just before he left for his job interview - doesn't he look incredible? Who wouldn't want to hire that hunk as a web/graphic designer?
Entering Chicago again...what a familiar view to us, yet it may have been the last time!
Our first packed box!
Let the record show: Scott and Bekah packed their first box on Friday night, October 24th for their upcoming move to Michigan. Only about 100 more to go...
Farewell to MOPS - Lakeview
For the past couple months I've been attending a MOPS group on the North side of the city. I knew I would be leaving Chicago soon, but I didn't want to hold off completely from relationships and opportunities for Micah to play with other kids. Though I didn't get to know many of the moms that well, I enjoyed meetings with them in September and October. They also sent me away with such a warm good-bye (a card, gift and prayer). Below are a few shots of our morning.
A very distraught Micah on his way to our last MOPS-Lakeview meeting. :-(
A common scene in Chicago - construction workers on train tracks, graffiti and billboards.
Lucy (left) and Brenda (right), the two women who led MOPPETS (kids care) so well.
If any of you Chicago moms are available the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month, I'd recommend attending this MOPS group. You can visit their blog for more info.
A very distraught Micah on his way to our last MOPS-Lakeview meeting. :-(
A common scene in Chicago - construction workers on train tracks, graffiti and billboards.
Lucy (left) and Brenda (right), the two women who led MOPPETS (kids care) so well.
If any of you Chicago moms are available the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month, I'd recommend attending this MOPS group. You can visit their blog for more info.
This post is dedicated to my mom...
Warning: this post may be graphic, not to be read by those with weak stomachs...
It was Tuesday afternoon and I was getting ready to pick up Scott from work so that we could meet up with some friends for dinner. I plopped Micah down in his crib for some contained playtime while I scurried around the house getting the diaper bag ready, speed cleaning, etc. As I approached Micah's room, a non-too-pleasant smell reached my nostrils. Oh wow, my son had an explosive diaper (I actually don't know if he's ever had one that bad before). Ew, it even crept up his back...After stripping him, stripping the crib, and giving him the world's fastest bath, we were on our merry way. I was just thankful this explosion hadn't happened while were out at dinner.
The next day was Wednesday, and Micah was dropping bomb diapers left and right. I cannot remember the last time I had to change his outfit 3 times in one day. Poor little guy's bum was SO red - who's wouldn't be when you're leaking acid-like nastiness all day long? (Sorry, this is one of those "graphic" parts).
After a full day of diaper change after diaper change, it was time for bed. After cleaning him up real good, and giving dad a good night hug, he fell asleep real quick. Before Scott and I went to bed (pretty late - around 11:30 p.m.), I wanted to give Micah a diaper change, just in case he'd had another diarrhea incident and wouldn't have to sleep on it all night long. I hadn't quite prepared myself for the next hour ahead...
I opened Micah's bedroom door and the stench was just awful. Poor little guy, I thought to myself, he's sleeping in poo...that's okay, he'll be clean soon. Yet it turned out that his diaper was dry, but the rest of him was soaked and stinky - he had barfed all over himself and his crib! And he hadn't even cried (he was sound asleep)! I don't know if any mother can "prepare" herself for a child's barf, but it's fascinating how quickly the motherly instincts kick in and you just start doing what needs to be done - no matter how fowl it may seem.
The next hour was spent tag-teaming with my incredible husband to get everything back in place (bath, new PJ's, new crib sheets, some fluids for Micah). It was almost all done when Micah threw up again (the fluids didn't set well with him). All right, last pair of clean PJ's on, now it's really time for bed. He went done very well, very late (past midnight).
After I ran down to the basement to start a load of wash with all the barf stuff, Scott and I collapsed in bed from exhaustion. Then...
Two hours later Scott ran out of bed to the bathroom. Uh-oh. Husband and son have the same virus. All night long, about every two hours, Scott ran out of bed, did his business in the bathroom and came and passed out in bed again. Poor guy! The last early a.m. run ended around 6:30, and as he and I were falling asleep I heard Micah, my alarm clock. Guess I would have to wait on catching up on that much desired shut-eye.
Micah was dry when I went into his room (thanks, God!). He downed a very bland, basic breakfast (bananas and cheerios). I was trying to get him to drink some fluids, but he wasn't feeling it. As you can see from the picture, I tried a variety of flavors and cups (Gatorade in the bottle, apple juice and two different kinds of Pedialyte in sippy cups, as well as water)...Scott was in and out of the lavatory (I felt so bad for him!), and actually took a sick day from work (I don't know if he's done that in all his 3 1/2 years at Breakthrough).
I had two sicko's all day long. My job was to try to keep them hydrated, keep them warm, and just take care of them (and try not to contract the same virus)! Wow, today actually wasn't that bad (aside from the barf and diarrhea). I have so much more respect for my mom who has seen more than her fair share of barf over the years (6 kids and a hubby, and she never complained while cleaning up the fowl-smelling stuff). I also got a little glimpse of the part of my vows that says "in sickness and in health..."
Scott ended up getting a good amount of rest today and is feeling better, and I tricked Micah into drinking Pedialyte through a fun straw. This is but one tale of the adventures of being a wife and mom! Now it's time to go to sleep.
It was Tuesday afternoon and I was getting ready to pick up Scott from work so that we could meet up with some friends for dinner. I plopped Micah down in his crib for some contained playtime while I scurried around the house getting the diaper bag ready, speed cleaning, etc. As I approached Micah's room, a non-too-pleasant smell reached my nostrils. Oh wow, my son had an explosive diaper (I actually don't know if he's ever had one that bad before). Ew, it even crept up his back...After stripping him, stripping the crib, and giving him the world's fastest bath, we were on our merry way. I was just thankful this explosion hadn't happened while were out at dinner.
The next day was Wednesday, and Micah was dropping bomb diapers left and right. I cannot remember the last time I had to change his outfit 3 times in one day. Poor little guy's bum was SO red - who's wouldn't be when you're leaking acid-like nastiness all day long? (Sorry, this is one of those "graphic" parts).
After a full day of diaper change after diaper change, it was time for bed. After cleaning him up real good, and giving dad a good night hug, he fell asleep real quick. Before Scott and I went to bed (pretty late - around 11:30 p.m.), I wanted to give Micah a diaper change, just in case he'd had another diarrhea incident and wouldn't have to sleep on it all night long. I hadn't quite prepared myself for the next hour ahead...
I opened Micah's bedroom door and the stench was just awful. Poor little guy, I thought to myself, he's sleeping in poo...that's okay, he'll be clean soon. Yet it turned out that his diaper was dry, but the rest of him was soaked and stinky - he had barfed all over himself and his crib! And he hadn't even cried (he was sound asleep)! I don't know if any mother can "prepare" herself for a child's barf, but it's fascinating how quickly the motherly instincts kick in and you just start doing what needs to be done - no matter how fowl it may seem.
The next hour was spent tag-teaming with my incredible husband to get everything back in place (bath, new PJ's, new crib sheets, some fluids for Micah). It was almost all done when Micah threw up again (the fluids didn't set well with him). All right, last pair of clean PJ's on, now it's really time for bed. He went done very well, very late (past midnight).
After I ran down to the basement to start a load of wash with all the barf stuff, Scott and I collapsed in bed from exhaustion. Then...
Two hours later Scott ran out of bed to the bathroom. Uh-oh. Husband and son have the same virus. All night long, about every two hours, Scott ran out of bed, did his business in the bathroom and came and passed out in bed again. Poor guy! The last early a.m. run ended around 6:30, and as he and I were falling asleep I heard Micah, my alarm clock. Guess I would have to wait on catching up on that much desired shut-eye.
Micah was dry when I went into his room (thanks, God!). He downed a very bland, basic breakfast (bananas and cheerios). I was trying to get him to drink some fluids, but he wasn't feeling it. As you can see from the picture, I tried a variety of flavors and cups (Gatorade in the bottle, apple juice and two different kinds of Pedialyte in sippy cups, as well as water)...Scott was in and out of the lavatory (I felt so bad for him!), and actually took a sick day from work (I don't know if he's done that in all his 3 1/2 years at Breakthrough). 
I had two sicko's all day long. My job was to try to keep them hydrated, keep them warm, and just take care of them (and try not to contract the same virus)! Wow, today actually wasn't that bad (aside from the barf and diarrhea). I have so much more respect for my mom who has seen more than her fair share of barf over the years (6 kids and a hubby, and she never complained while cleaning up the fowl-smelling stuff). I also got a little glimpse of the part of my vows that says "in sickness and in health..." Scott ended up getting a good amount of rest today and is feeling better, and I tricked Micah into drinking Pedialyte through a fun straw. This is but one tale of the adventures of being a wife and mom! Now it's time to go to sleep.
Monday, October 27, 2008
We're moving to Michigan - in 2 weeks!
Hey blog readers (mom and Rachel). :-) It's time to make the "official" announcement - Scott, Bekah and Micah are moving to Michigan! Scott and I have been thinking about, praying for, and discussing a move since March, but Michigan was set as the potential destination of choice a couple months ago. We didn't feel we could "spread the word" until last Tuesday - when Scott's fellow employees heard the news (his supervisors have known for awhile).
Blah, blah, technical details, sorry. So yes, Scott and I are staying in Chicago through Breakthrough's Annual Benefit Dinner on Friday, November 7th (if you're in or near Chicago, feel free to come and register to sit at our table - it's going to be a GREAT evening). Then, sometime within the week after the Benefit, we're heading northeast to Michigan.
First, let me say that Scott and I are leaving Chicago and Breakthrough on "good terms" and have thoroughly enjoyed our time here. For both of us, Chicago will always hold a very special place in our hearts. It is where we both went off to college, became adults, met our future spouse (each other) :-), began married life, had our first full-time jobs, had a baby - just to name a few life changes! God has been so extremely good to us here. He has shown that He is such a generous and kind God. He has kept us safe in our neighborhood (Scott has walked to work everyday for nearly 2.5 of his 3.5 years at Breakthrough), He has allowed me to be a stay-at-home-mom with Micah (we didn't know how long we'd last on 1 income in expensive Chicago - but God provided!), and He has helped Scott and I grow together as husband and wife as well as mother and father to Micah. The list could go on and on (great friends, good landlords, a wonderful staff at Breakthrough, fun, adventures, etc)...
So, why the move? some of you may be asking. Good question. By no means was this an "easy" decision for Scott and I...but several of our reasons are these:
-Getting closer to family so Micah can know them! (Now we only have to travel to see one side of the family, instead of both, because we'll be living near the other).
-Moving to a place with lower cost of living, so I can continue to be a stay-at-home-mom (FYI, California is not cheaper than Chicago, so moving near the Sovilla family just didn't work out). :-(
-New direction in Scott's career. Scott is making the switch from the nonprofit sector to the for-profit sector, specifically in full-time graphic design.
If you're reading this from Chicago - know that you'll be missed by us! We love you and have loved getting to know you. If you're reading this from outside Chicago, we love you too, and hope that you're doing well. :-)
We'll keep you posted with how the move goes, but please forgive me if I'm MIA on this blog for the next two weeks...I have an almost 14 month old son to take care of, a house to pack up, and a Benefit dinner to help with (putting in hours from home to help with registration).
Well, that's it for now. Michigan, here we come!
Blah, blah, technical details, sorry. So yes, Scott and I are staying in Chicago through Breakthrough's Annual Benefit Dinner on Friday, November 7th (if you're in or near Chicago, feel free to come and register to sit at our table - it's going to be a GREAT evening). Then, sometime within the week after the Benefit, we're heading northeast to Michigan.
First, let me say that Scott and I are leaving Chicago and Breakthrough on "good terms" and have thoroughly enjoyed our time here. For both of us, Chicago will always hold a very special place in our hearts. It is where we both went off to college, became adults, met our future spouse (each other) :-), began married life, had our first full-time jobs, had a baby - just to name a few life changes! God has been so extremely good to us here. He has shown that He is such a generous and kind God. He has kept us safe in our neighborhood (Scott has walked to work everyday for nearly 2.5 of his 3.5 years at Breakthrough), He has allowed me to be a stay-at-home-mom with Micah (we didn't know how long we'd last on 1 income in expensive Chicago - but God provided!), and He has helped Scott and I grow together as husband and wife as well as mother and father to Micah. The list could go on and on (great friends, good landlords, a wonderful staff at Breakthrough, fun, adventures, etc)...
So, why the move? some of you may be asking. Good question. By no means was this an "easy" decision for Scott and I...but several of our reasons are these:
-Getting closer to family so Micah can know them! (Now we only have to travel to see one side of the family, instead of both, because we'll be living near the other).
-Moving to a place with lower cost of living, so I can continue to be a stay-at-home-mom (FYI, California is not cheaper than Chicago, so moving near the Sovilla family just didn't work out). :-(
-New direction in Scott's career. Scott is making the switch from the nonprofit sector to the for-profit sector, specifically in full-time graphic design.
If you're reading this from Chicago - know that you'll be missed by us! We love you and have loved getting to know you. If you're reading this from outside Chicago, we love you too, and hope that you're doing well. :-)
We'll keep you posted with how the move goes, but please forgive me if I'm MIA on this blog for the next two weeks...I have an almost 14 month old son to take care of, a house to pack up, and a Benefit dinner to help with (putting in hours from home to help with registration).
Well, that's it for now. Michigan, here we come!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Pat-a-Cake
Every now and then since Micah was about 6 months old I've taken his little hands, clapped them together and then guided them in a rolling and patting motion as we "make a cake" with Pat-a-Cake. The other day I started singing the familiar nursery rhyme, and to my surprise, Micah started clapping his hands all on his own! It was so precious, and it made this mom's heart proud (would you believe it, he actually did it again later for dad and the camera too). :-)
Monday, October 20, 2008
Divorce
Right now my heart just hurts.
Over the last week I've heard of several instances where people are either divorced or in the middle of getting one. This just grieves my heart, it really does. How did this relationship, which once was united, come to a bitter end? How did man and wife suddenly become "my ex"? What was the process that finally brought this marriage to an end? How many tears were shed, words were said, and silence was kept, before it was all said and done? When did it just become "too much" to handle, unbearable? How much pain was felt on each heart involved? How deep was the grief?
I can't imagine one day saying of my now beloved husband, "Scott is my ex." I can't imagine the process of pain, mistrust and unforgiveness that would bring us even remotely close to that point. What couldn't be worked through together? We have committed to stay together as husband and wife "til death do us part," but we still need God's strength and grace to honor that commitment every day.
I am sad for those marriages that have ended, for whatever reason, in divorce. Sad for them - the two that were once in love, now separated. Sad for anyone involved around them - children, parents, friends, who grieve with and for them. Sad for the wickedness that came in to bring this separation about - adultery, lying, lack of communication, whatever it may have been.
What grieves my heart even more is that these several divorce cases I've heard of this week shows me that this is but a small taste of the reality of our whole society. Divorce is rampant - which means disloyalty, cheating, pain, desertion, neglect, unforgiveness, bitterness, misunderstanding and selfishness are alive and well throughout the globe.
Lord, forgive us. And help us heal.
I don't seek to condemn anyone. I'm sure that there are cases of divorce where both parties end up "moving on" and are nice, good people who honestly continue to serve and love others, and aren't running around being all mean to people. But this end of the marriage union, for whatever case, still makes my heart hurt.
Over the last week I've heard of several instances where people are either divorced or in the middle of getting one. This just grieves my heart, it really does. How did this relationship, which once was united, come to a bitter end? How did man and wife suddenly become "my ex"? What was the process that finally brought this marriage to an end? How many tears were shed, words were said, and silence was kept, before it was all said and done? When did it just become "too much" to handle, unbearable? How much pain was felt on each heart involved? How deep was the grief?
I can't imagine one day saying of my now beloved husband, "Scott is my ex." I can't imagine the process of pain, mistrust and unforgiveness that would bring us even remotely close to that point. What couldn't be worked through together? We have committed to stay together as husband and wife "til death do us part," but we still need God's strength and grace to honor that commitment every day.
I am sad for those marriages that have ended, for whatever reason, in divorce. Sad for them - the two that were once in love, now separated. Sad for anyone involved around them - children, parents, friends, who grieve with and for them. Sad for the wickedness that came in to bring this separation about - adultery, lying, lack of communication, whatever it may have been.
What grieves my heart even more is that these several divorce cases I've heard of this week shows me that this is but a small taste of the reality of our whole society. Divorce is rampant - which means disloyalty, cheating, pain, desertion, neglect, unforgiveness, bitterness, misunderstanding and selfishness are alive and well throughout the globe.
Lord, forgive us. And help us heal.
I don't seek to condemn anyone. I'm sure that there are cases of divorce where both parties end up "moving on" and are nice, good people who honestly continue to serve and love others, and aren't running around being all mean to people. But this end of the marriage union, for whatever case, still makes my heart hurt.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
"Obama’s Abortion Extremism" by Robert George
"If (my daughters) make a mistake, I don't want them punished with a baby." - Barack Obama
I stumbled across Randy Birkey's blog, and saw this picture. I had to just stop for a minute. At first I was captivated by the beautiful little newborn cupped in his parents' hands. Then I read the caption underneath - which didn't seem to fit with the picture at all! Complete opposite messages. Now, I'm not saying I think Obama doesn't care for kids (on the contrary, he has two daughters), but his extreme stance on abortion is terribly sad.
Here's an excerpt from Robert George's article that made my heart so heavy. If you get a chance to read the whole article, please do, and pass this along as well.
He [Barack Obama] has promised that "the first thing I'd do as President is sign the Freedom of Choice Act" (known as FOCA). This proposed legislation would create a federally guaranteed "fundamental right" to abortion through all nine months of pregnancy, including, as Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia has noted in a statement condemning the proposed Act, "a right to abort a fully developed child in the final weeks for undefined 'health' reasons." In essence, FOCA would abolish virtually every existing state and federal limitation on abortion, including parental consent and notification laws for minors, state and federal funding restrictions on abortion, and conscience protections for pro-life citizens working in the health-care industry-protections against being forced to participate in the practice of abortion or else lose their jobs. The pro-abortion National Organization for Women has proclaimed with approval that FOCA would "sweep away hundreds of anti-abortion laws [and] policies."
Summer Snapshot 3: Arizona in June
After all the hard work put in for Breakthrough's Hunger Walk and Grand Opening Celebration, Scott needed a vacation (me too, for I helped with the events also...on a much smaller scale though)! So we packed our bags and took a plane to AZ (this trip was planned ahead of time, of course). :-)
I got to blog a little while I was there, but this post includes some photo documentation. As I mentioned in that earlier post, I had a great time with the Ruth's - I really do enjoy my in-laws. We had a wonderful time conversing, playing in their pool, seeing "WALL-E," eating, and just enjoying one another's presence. We hadn't all been together (Scott, Lisa, Scotty, Amanda, me and Micah) since May 2007 at Amanda's graduation (and Micah was in my womb then)!
A cake celebrating Scott's and my 2 year anniversary (July 1st) and Amanda's 24th birthday (July 12th). Notice that it says "2th" instead of "2nd." Ha - the baker made a mistake:
Micah LOVED his time in the pool!
Micah and I also enjoyed watching the others play pool volleyball.
After pool time, Grandpa had to help Micah stay warm until mom could change him into dry clothes. :-)
At the theater, just before "WALL-E" started (Micah took a nice nap on Auntie Amanda's lap).
Chilling out in our P.J.'s - hey, it's vacation!!
We had to get at least one family photo in before our trip was done!
I got to blog a little while I was there, but this post includes some photo documentation. As I mentioned in that earlier post, I had a great time with the Ruth's - I really do enjoy my in-laws. We had a wonderful time conversing, playing in their pool, seeing "WALL-E," eating, and just enjoying one another's presence. We hadn't all been together (Scott, Lisa, Scotty, Amanda, me and Micah) since May 2007 at Amanda's graduation (and Micah was in my womb then)!
A cake celebrating Scott's and my 2 year anniversary (July 1st) and Amanda's 24th birthday (July 12th). Notice that it says "2th" instead of "2nd." Ha - the baker made a mistake:
Micah LOVED his time in the pool!
Micah and I also enjoyed watching the others play pool volleyball.
After pool time, Grandpa had to help Micah stay warm until mom could change him into dry clothes. :-)
At the theater, just before "WALL-E" started (Micah took a nice nap on Auntie Amanda's lap).
Chilling out in our P.J.'s - hey, it's vacation!!
We had to get at least one family photo in before our trip was done!
Summer Snapshot 2: Breakthrough in June
Breakthrough had two huge summer events that required a lot of prep work and prayers, but they ended up being GREAT! First came the Hunger Walk on June 14th. Breakthrough had walkers who had raised money that will go towards Breakthrough's account at the Greater Chicago Food Depository(GCFD). GCFD is where we get much of the food for the guests who are currently living at Breakthrough - only $0.07 per lb of food! We had a great turn out, and a lot of fun too! Even Micah did the whole 2.5 miles - being pushed in a stroller by daddy. :-)
Then on June 21st, Breakthrough had a huge block party celebrating the grand opening of the Breakthrough Ministry Center (see previous post). There was a ton of food, live entertainment, a couple bounce houses, neighbors, volunteers, awards, games, balloons, a ribbon cutting ceremony (Alderman Burnett himself came out for that part). It was such a great celebration, reminding us of God's goodness in having this building to provide services to people in the community, as well as the 30 male guests that live there. God brought together so many donors, volunteers, construction workers and prayers over the past 4 years to bring this about.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Summer Snapshot 1: CA in May/June
All right folks, I've promised more than once to write some posts recapping the summer adventures of the Ruth family. Whether or not you're interested in reading about our many travels, I want to get it out in journal format so I can look back on it years down the road and remember all the wonderful things in Micah's first summer!
After a nice trip from G'pa and G'ma Ruth (Scotty's parents) in May, Micah and I caught a plane to CA to go to Auntie Diana's high school graduation. Wow, my "baby sister" is well on her way to adulthood.
I hadn't been out to CA since our Christmas trip, so it was nice to be on west coast soil again. I saw familiar sites, and was able to meet with some dearly missed friends and family (a bridal shower, a walk to the grocery store with Micah's great grandma, a get together here and there, Diana's graduation)...God was so very good to allow me this trip out to my hometown. Here are some snapshots of just a few people I love!
Good friend Heather Whelan (wrote secret admirer notes to my crush in Jr. High, went to Romania together in High School, good memories):
Beth and Jennifer (homeschooled together, we were "The 3 Musketeers," love these girls):
Diana got her license (I was glad to be one of the first to know):
Greg and Biz (ate a delicious meal made by my one and only brother-in-law, incredible strawberry syrup):
Marianne Dudley, now Cota (went to WHBC youth group together, so glad to celebrate her upcoming marriage with her):
Diana (playing piano at her graduation):
Mike and Lynda Gunderson (dear to my heart - they are so loving and such servants):
Grandma Lois, mom, me, Micah (4 generations photo):
Megan Dods (good college friend of Scott's and mine from Moody Bible Institute):
Lena Hernandez (a dear friend to me from WHBC, like another grandma):
Amber Cummings (a good friend of mine from Moody):
The cousins Anne and Micah (who had a GREAT time together all week long):
After a nice trip from G'pa and G'ma Ruth (Scotty's parents) in May, Micah and I caught a plane to CA to go to Auntie Diana's high school graduation. Wow, my "baby sister" is well on her way to adulthood.
I hadn't been out to CA since our Christmas trip, so it was nice to be on west coast soil again. I saw familiar sites, and was able to meet with some dearly missed friends and family (a bridal shower, a walk to the grocery store with Micah's great grandma, a get together here and there, Diana's graduation)...God was so very good to allow me this trip out to my hometown. Here are some snapshots of just a few people I love!
Good friend Heather Whelan (wrote secret admirer notes to my crush in Jr. High, went to Romania together in High School, good memories):
Beth and Jennifer (homeschooled together, we were "The 3 Musketeers," love these girls):
Diana got her license (I was glad to be one of the first to know):
Greg and Biz (ate a delicious meal made by my one and only brother-in-law, incredible strawberry syrup):
Marianne Dudley, now Cota (went to WHBC youth group together, so glad to celebrate her upcoming marriage with her):
Diana (playing piano at her graduation):
Mike and Lynda Gunderson (dear to my heart - they are so loving and such servants):
Grandma Lois, mom, me, Micah (4 generations photo):
Megan Dods (good college friend of Scott's and mine from Moody Bible Institute):
Lena Hernandez (a dear friend to me from WHBC, like another grandma):
Amber Cummings (a good friend of mine from Moody):
The cousins Anne and Micah (who had a GREAT time together all week long):
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Auntie 'Manda
Scott's sister, Amanda, was in town this past week, and it was so great to see her. She just made a huge transition moving from Vermont to Michigan, so needless to say, there was a lot to catch up on. Amanda and I enjoyed playing cards when we could, chatting, crying, laughing, eating apples (see previous two posts)...and she was kind enough to baby-sit Micah on more than one occasion so Scott and I could get a date! Here's Micah with his one and only Midwest auntie.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Apple this and apple that...
After yesterday's family adventure at the Apple Holler in WI, Scott and I had our work cut out for us trying to cook/use all these apples in something! After much recipe finding, apple washing and peeling, ingredient buying, we began cooking...
The end product? Apple Butter, Apple Pie and Apple Crisp. Scott honestly did most of it - and he did an incredible job. He peeled nearly all the apples we used, and made the Apple Pie and Apple Butter all on his own. As for me? I took pictures to document, whipped up the easiest recipe (Apple Crisp), and enjoyed the wonderful aroma that filled our home! After using up nearly 30 apples, we still have about 50 more...1/2 a bushel is a lot...anybody want some?
The end product? Apple Butter, Apple Pie and Apple Crisp. Scott honestly did most of it - and he did an incredible job. He peeled nearly all the apples we used, and made the Apple Pie and Apple Butter all on his own. As for me? I took pictures to document, whipped up the easiest recipe (Apple Crisp), and enjoyed the wonderful aroma that filled our home! After using up nearly 30 apples, we still have about 50 more...1/2 a bushel is a lot...anybody want some?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)