Back to blogging..

At least for now. :) It has been a long time since I have updated my blog, so I will start with a basic update on us. Chris~ Is working for Neset Consulting, a geology firm working in the Western ND oil fields. His job includes collecting samples of the rock that they are drilling for, examining and describing them, and completing a geologic summery of the whole well. He works every day for 12 hours while the rig is drilling, an average of 32 days, and works and lives on site. When he is off he often gets several weeks at home! The boys and I look forward to these really awesome times! Jennie~ I am a full time stay at home mom. :) I love hanging out with my babies, and some days can be super challenging as well! I am currently over my head in laundry and dishes, and those tasks never seem to end. I am back to my passion of cloth diapering, and have even posted some cloth diaper reviews on youtube! I really, really enjoy cloth diapers, and have gotten a chance to try out several new brands lately. I am also leading Financial Peace University at church! This class is incredible and has changed the way we think and view money. It has been such a blessing to be able to go through it with out church family and friends. Judah~ is newly 3 as of June 8. He is busy, and never stops! He is also learning a lot from talking, to new stunts to pull, and everything in between. He was very proud of himself last week when he said his first Bible verse, Genesis 1:1. He said 'In the beginning, God created, uh, um, uh, the heaven and ALL THE EARTHS EVERYWHERE!' Not quite word perfect, but his enthusiasm was priceless. <3 He also knows most of the letters, how to count to 10, and most of the colors. We are going to start talking shapes here any day. :) Justice~ Is 16 months, and is just a charm. He is so happy, and can put a smile on anyone's face. <3 He is a little jabberjaws, and talks constantly. He even can say a few words already! He says "Mama, Daddy, Judah, More, Please, Yes, and All done" We are doing really well, and learning more and more about relying on God every day.

The last year: A picture review!

I am going to give this another shot.. :)

Justice, our baby will be 1 already on March 10. Its crazy to watch him grow up.. Overall, he has had a much easier first year than his brother did, who by the time he was 1 had already been hospitalized twice.

Here are some shots of the boys last March.. (I think on the 16th, when Justice was 6 days old! Quick family tidbit: Justice got his full name on the day his first pictures were taken. Chris and I had decided not to decide on a name until we got to know him.. We settled on Justice by Monday the 14th, but Zachary, his first name was not decided until we were driving to the photo studio. Its a perfect fit and we love it!


Judah at 21 Months

Justice at 6 days!

Fast forward 6 months, and we have these pics. :)


Judah at 27 months



Both boys together!



Justice at 6 Months!!

And now some of current. These were both taken in Oregon when we were there at the beginning of February.


This is Judah on the beach.. He had a blast! He got to feed the seagulls, and he got to chase them. We found a couple bigger pieces of broken shells, including half of a sand dollar that we brought home.



And this is Justice playing in the baby area of the Portland Children's Museum.

We really enjoyed our time in Oregon. Now that we are back in ND, I wish that we could escape and go out there more often. It truly is beautiful.. Maybe someday we will live out there.

That's all for now.. We will see how long this blogging thing lasts. :)

Grateful for my family!!

I know I have not updated this blog in like.. Months. But in light of all of the death, and pain my family has expierianced this last spring, I thought it would be appropriate to give thanks for my beautiful family. :)

My Husband Chris:
*He loves our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ
*Is a man of true valor.
*He is my ally.
*He has helped me heal from many wounds, and stood beside me during my darkest hours.
*He is a leader, but not a dictator. He respects that marriage is a mutual parternship.
*He is gentle
*He is a wonderful father to our boys.


My Son, Judah
*Is a sensative, curious, joyful little boy.
*Gives super sweet hugs, and kisses.
*Is sensative to the needs, and emotions of others, as much as is developmentally appropriate for a 2 year old anyways
*Is an awesome big brother.
*Is very forgiving of my bad moments.
*Has taught me soo much about love, grace, sacrifice, joy, and the personality of God.

My Son, Justice
*Nurses so sweetly. Nothing is more beautiful or natural than a babe at breast.
*Is ever watchful of his enviornment.
*Interacts with us, and brings so much joy.
*Is a good reminder of what it is like to pursue learning, without giving up. For a month now he spends all his waking moments trying so hard to sit, crawl, and explore. Though he has not mastered any of those things, he is still driven to learn.

My family means so much to me.. And God truely is in the heart of a family. Being a mother has taught me soooo much about the passages in scripture that talk about the nurturing aspects of God.. About his grace, mercy and love. Even about his dicipline.

Life is soo fleeting. We have known several people in the last few months who have lost loved ones very suddenly, with no warning. Please take a moment and let your family know you love them, and thank God for his special gift of family. <3

Newest Pictures of Judah, and Justice

Here are some updated pics of the boys. These were taken when Justice was 6 days old, so the 16th of March, 2011. I take pics of the boys once a month until they are one, and then every 3 months until they are 2, so March was also the month for Judah's 21 month pictures. We did not get any of the boys together, which is okay. At this age, its just stress on both the photographer, and the boys, at least in a studio setting. Still waiting for that 'moment' here at home when we have a camera ready to get the brothers together. :)

Justice, safe in Mamma's arms. He is so alert, and calm, and did a splendid job for a newborn in a photo studio. In my expieriance, shots like the ones we got with him are not an every day thing for a newborn, so I was very pleased with the way they turned out. Kudos to Jan Beauclair our photographer for doing such an awesome job!

This is one of my favorite pics of Justice. Jan had purchased this lamb when I told her I would be bringing Justice to Bismarck for his newborn pictures, and the way he is lying there with his eyes wide open just melts my heart. <3


And my Judah.. My beautiful, sensative, thrill seeking 21 month old joy. I love him so much, and have been so blessed by having the last 21 months to get to know him and love on him. Judah actually means "Praised" and we really feel like he is something we praise God for every day. His very life is a real praise for God's goodness to us. :)

You can see what a joyful spirit that he has in this picture. He is always very open with his smiles, and will spill his happyness on those around him. He has always been a natural in front of the camera as well. I am really enjoying the toddler years with him thus far. It is so beautiful to me to see how God has designed humans to find their own boundaries at such a young age, and its a bit scary to know that how I train him is going to determine in a large sense his ability to respect himself, other people, and the boundaries God has set for us in scripture. Right now we are really working on his "No". Teaching him that his no has power, and it is important. He needs a strong "No" to be able to say no to evil, and people who would use and manipulate him, causing him to walk away from God's path. The other side is teaching him that he also must learn to take a no. That other people have boundaries as well that cannot be crossed. It is such a special time to be a mamma!

Zachary Justice Hall!

We have a baby! Actually, we had him on the 10th, and I am just getting around to updating! He was born March 10, 2011, into the comfort of him mamma's arms in our home. He weighed 8lb 4oz, and was 21 inches long. Here are some pics! They are kindof backwards so, you see baby before labor. :)

Here he is, weighed in at 8lb 4oz. The midwife brings a scale, and everything that you need to get all the information for the baby when he is born. :)

Meeting Big Brother Judah for the first time. Judah just loves Justice, and gives him lots of kisses. Sometimes he needs a friendly reminder that little brothers are not for hitting though. :)

Right after birth, snuggled up in mamma's arms in her own bed. I would never, ever, ever do another hospital birth, unless it was totally necesary. The homebirth was everything I wanted, and I actually got to bond with Justice without having him taken away like they did Judah. Those hours they stole from us caused a wound in our relationship, that though healed now, was damaging Judah's first few months of life. With Justice I feel in tuned to his needs, and I am completly attached and in love with this little man. :)

Laboring with the best labor coach in the world. Labor was a lot of hard work, but he was there every step of the way to hold my hand, push back my hair, massage my hips, or just whisper sweet words on encouragement to me. Chris definatly was everything I needed in a hubby during those long hours of pushing. I love him so much.. <3

Laboring in the birth pool. Due to my blood pressure dropping because of the temp of the water, I was not actually able to have a 'real' waterbirth, but I did labor in the water for quite a while.

We are very thankful for the newest blessing God has given us.. :)

Why I chose Attachment Parenting

I talk alot about Attachment Parenting, or AP. I thought I should take a moment to explain both on my blog, and on facebook what I mean.. :) While I was still pregnant, I had a bit of exposure to a style called Attachment Parenting. I found it on an online message board called "Mothering". I agreed and loved many of the ideas that the website promoted, but ultimatly wrote it off, because the overall feeling of the board was very New Age. Many of the mom's on this site were athiests, or agnostics, and I could not find anything about good Christian people practicing this style of parenting. I did not realize that many people who do practice AP do so for biblical reasons.. In fact, Dr William Sears, the one who originally coined the term Attachment Parenting, is a believer himself!

Attachment Parenting promotes certain practices, but more so, a concept that is different than many peoples. AP has certain things that are sort of like character traits. These parents generally:

Bonding right at birth~This is very very critical for AP parents. They will generally pursue a birth that has little or no medical intervention, and birth in an enviornment that is condusive to the family spending a lot of time together. This would be time without Drs, nurses, or anyone else taking baby away. This "Babymoon" is a very special and important time.

Breastfeed~Mostly practicing Child Led Weaning, or, nursing until the child decides he/she is done.

Bedding close to baby~Usually in the form of co-sleeping, or sharing a bed with the baby. Some though, simply place the basinet or crib in mom and dad's room.

Practice Night Time parenting~This basically means that they do not actively pursue rigid "sleep training" They do not allow their children to scream themselves to sleep, and reject the idea of teaching a child so young to "self soothe" Babes are also allowed to nurse at night.

Babywear~ The basic tenant of AP, is that the mamma/baby bond is divinely given by God. In order to protect this bond, baby stays with mamma. This is easily facilated by the mamma wearing the baby in a safe sling or wrap. There have been studies that suggest that children that are carried and worn, generally feel more secure*

Belief in the language value of a baby's cry~ Basically this means, babies cry when the need something. If they are hungry or wet. A 3 month old is not playing insane mindgames trying to control your mind.

Ballance~Do not spend so much time completly focased on baby to the point where you neglect you own well being, or the well being of you marriage.

Over the last several months, I have become very passionately AP. Though, as a couple, Chris and I do not practice 100% of the above, (Namely, we do not co-sleep with Judah) we do embrace the ideas that AP promotes. The ideas that are so important and real to me are:

1) God created the bond between a mamma and baby. It has become so real to me that being with me is not just a want of Judah's, it is an emotional need. Since I have started this new job, he has had a lot of trouble emotionally. :( It breaks my heart.

2) Teaching a new baby to somehow "learn independance" is silly. Children develop over time, and independance is a developmental step. Leaving a baby to cry alone to teach them how to sort things out is not productive, because a baby is not at a place mentally, or emotionally to be able to do that. They cannot understand that when you leave them you will in fact, return. This is something that is learned in time.

3) The fathers role in creating a safe enviornment is crucial. There is a reason why fathers are adressed so sternly in scripture in regards to the type of home they build for their children to grow up in. AP does focas on the mothers bond with baby, but it also understands that both mamma, and baby need a Daddy.. <3

4) Birth is a natural process. My birth with Judah was a medical success.. I had a healthy baby.. All good, right? Yes, sortof. I praise God that my baby was healthy. And I am not trying to say that is not important. But, I believe that those first few hours that were stolen by the medical professionals, who had no bond with my baby are lost forever.. And that grieves me very deeply. Should we have more children, I look forward to bringing them into this world in the most gentle, safe way possible. God created my body to give birth. And I believe in his wonderful creation! Provided that something out of the ordinary does not happen, I will be perfectly safe giving birth at home, to allow our family time to bond in a quite, un hassled enviounment..

5) One of the biggest reasons I love this thought process, is because it really focases on doing what is best for your family. Even if that means not co-sleeping, or breastfeeding ect.. Right now, co-sleeping is not in the best interest of our entire family unit. We do sleep with Judah if he is sick or needy, and we are not closed always to the idea.. But attachment parenting is really about building relationships, and doing your best to have them bud and develop in the safest, gentlest way possible..

So those are my thoughts! Thanks for reading!

*Obviously, this depends on the parents, and many other factors as well. Babywearing, or any of the practices listed will ensure an happy healthy baby.. Emotionally or otherwise. I do believe that they create a place where it is easier to be happy and healthy though..

Ways we have and are saving money!

Its is crazy how creative you get when you are trying to save money! I have really been enjoying learning how to stretch the money we have. I have to say that Attachment Parenting, and being just old fashioned crunchy really helps.. :)
So, here is a list of all the crazy things we do.. :)
1.) We use cloth diapers. They say that using disposable diapers, from newborn to potty trained costs you an average of 1800 dollars per child! That number is crazy, but when I look at diapers in the store, I am surprised it is not more..
I love the cloth diapers that I use. We use a combination of an old fasioned prefold, with a diaper cover. There are very cute covers available these days, and very econimical too. We get by with about 15 prefolds, which cost around between 15 and 25 dollars a dozen. (The ones we got were 17) Since we use them with a diaper cover, we are good with the infant size, and do not have to worry about buying new diapers as Judah grows. For covers, we have a few different styles. We mainly use gDiaper covers. These diapers are WONDERFULL! The outside of the diaper is made of a cotton/polyester blend that is very soft. They come with waterproof liners that snap in. You simply put your prefold into the liner, and velcro the whole thing on baby. These are nice trim diapers as well.. We also use the Bumkins Vented Diaper Cover. This is another one of my favorites! Very lightweight, and breathable, these keep baby dry and rash free! I will have to take pictures of my diapers and do a follow up post. :)
2) We also use cloth diaper wipes. This makes sense really, seeing as how we already are washing diapers. After using these the past several months, I can not imagine how we ever used the flimsy disposable version. Right now, I just use all those baby washclothes that we never used when he was little. They work like a charm. I make my own diaper wipe solution by mixing water, baby shampoo, and a generous amount of baby lotion. They smell so good!
3.) We use family cloth. This replaces toilet paper. This also seemed like a logical thing to do, since we are already washing diapers, and wipes. You can buy cloth online made specifically for this purpose, but Chris and I have found that you generic cheap baby washclothes work very well. This is another thing we love! We were kind of surprised, but its nice not having to worry about you TP tearing.
4.) Reusable sandwhich bags. Right now we just use the heavy duty ziploc bags, and wash them. I am looking into investing in sandwich bags and wraps that are made of a more durable material.
5.)We breastfeed. When Judah was a couple of months old, and was having some tummy trouble, we looked at buying a formula for him. That stuff is crazy expensive! Cans ranged from 8-30 dollars if my memory does me well. And those only make 15 bottles. On top of the price benefit, breastfeeding promotes the God given mamma instinct, and seals the connection of baby and mamma. I can not imagine weaning Judah right now. (Actually, I can imagine it right after he bites me.. but that is another story)
6.) I do not use disposable feminine products. I was surprised to learn that there are other things to use that are way cheaper, and more comfortable in the long run. I prefer what is known as the diva cup, which is washable, and reusable. Some mammas will use Mamma Cloth, which is a cloth version of a disposable pad. Mamma cloth is easy to make, and saves a few more pennies in the budget.
7.) I wear Judah. While we do have strollers that were given to us, this is not something we would have spent a lot of money on, though they do come in handy.. :) (Especially with a new baby when you can snap the sleeping baby carseat and all, onto the stroller) If we had not been given one though, we would have saved that money. I wear Judah in different types of wraps or slings depending on the activity I am doing. If I am doing housework, the best option for me is for him to be on my back, so my hands are free. This is easiest with a Moby type wrap. Which is basically a long strechy fabric that you tie the baby on with. Very fun too! If I am shopping, or hanging out, will use a ring sling. This is a sling that goes over one shoulder, with a pouch for the baby or toddler to rest in.
8) We waited a long time to introduce Judah to solids, and when we did, he eats things that we eat, so no baby food expense.

That is about all I can think of now. That was fun to type out.. :) I am enjoying becoming much more natural, and less wastefull.. It really is a fun journey!

I write this with a heavy heart

I have been trembling for over a week and a half now. There is something that is weighing heavily on my mind, and I have avoided blogging about it, because I know that I will get flack from it. In fact, many of you who read what I have to say with very strongly disagree with me. But I have gotten to the point where I am okay with that. I can not keep this to myself anymore. Please understand I am not writing to throw stones, or defame the character of anyone.


Earlier this month, a little girl named Lydia was working on a reading lesson when she mispronounced a word. She refused to say it correctly, so her parents diciplined her. She was homeschooled, and the daughter of parents who loved her, according to people who know the family. They were, in many ways a typical christian family. They were conservative, and homeschooled their children. Very much like the family I grew up in, and many of my friends. But on this day, they became a news story. Very little about what happened during the next 4-6 hours is known. What we do know is that the mother made a frantic call to 911 to say her daugter was not breathing. 7 year old Lydia died that day, from organ failure caused from major tissue damage. By the time the EMT's arrived, she was in cardiac arrest. Its a sad story.


But, there is more to the story. And this is what has been troubling me. Kevin and Elizabeth, the girls parents, were very vocal followers of a TN preacher named Michael Pearl. He has a magazine, as well as several books that he and his wife have written. The name of his ministry is "No Greater Joy." They are the authors of the popular book, To Train Up A Child. I have read 2 books by the Pearls. The one mentioned before, and Created To Be His Helpmeet. I have also read maybe 20 or so of the articles on his website, which I will not link to, because I do not support them. While I in no means, intend this blog post to be a mudslinging at Michael and Debi Pearl as people, I do think that there are errors in their philosophy of parenting, as well as their underlying theology, that should be adressed.


I am stunned that some conservative Christians support the Pearls ministry. The research that I have done, has shown that his theology is way off from what I believe the scripture teaches about the nature of Salvation, and a parents role in it. He also advocates parenting practices that are abusive in some cases, and this goes way beyond an "old fashioned spanking"


He teaches that submission is the only thing that is acceptable from a child. Cheerful submission. This sounds great! Who would not love to have children that happily complied every time a command was given? Michael Pearl tells you just how to get that submission. The following section is a quote from his article entitled In Defense of Biblical Chastisment:

"If you ever have a child who stands his ground of defiance and you let him win, you have lost his heart forever—unless you are able to go back and win a confrontation and keep on winning. If you ever let his rebellion triumph just one time, it makes it much harder to conquer in the future. After he gains the upper hand, one victory on your part will not be sufficient. You will have to persevere in several contests of wills until he is convinced that he can never stand against your authority."

The section right before this quote, explains how you should spank 10 times, slowly and counting, forgeting what number you are at, ect. until the child fully submits to you. No matter how many licks that takes. Following that, Pearl says that if you give into your child, or stop spanking before the child is humble and submissive, "you have lost his heart forever"

As Christian parents, we all want our kid's hearts to be softened toward God. What a strong thing to say! While I totally agree that we should be as consistant as possible with out kids, what happens when the child refuses to submit? How far is to far? When does loving dicipline become abuse? Why is this line never explained in the various articles on how to apply the rod? Is this truely how scripture teaches us to dicipline our children? Believe it or not, the above quoted passage is one of the milder warnings about letting your child win. I believe, that for well meaning parents who follow the Pearls teaching, letting your child win somehow becomes the worst thing you can do. Somehow it is more abusive to give in, than to beat your child to the point of serious injury or death. And I do not believe that this is what a Jesus who said "Let the little children come to me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven" would do.

According to the police report, Lydia was beaten with a 1/4 inch plumbers line, which is exacty what Michael Peal says makes an ideal "rod". From the same article, under the section called "What instument should I use?" Michael Pearl says:

"As a rule, do not use your hand. Hands are for loving and helping. If an adult swings his or her hand fast enough to cause pain to the surface of the skin, there is a danger of damaging bones and joints. The most painful nerves are just under the surface of the skin. A swift swat with a light, flexible instrument will sting without bruising or causing internal damage. Many people are using a section of ¼ inch plumber’s supply line as a spanking instrument. It will fit in your purse or hang around you neck. You can buy them for under $1.00 at Home Depot or any hardware store. They come cheaper by the dozen and can be widely distributed in every room and vehicle. Just the high profile of their accessibility keeps the kids in line"

As far as Pearl's theology is concerned, I was surprised to learn that he believes that the rod has the power to absolve a child's sin. It can completly take away the guilt of sin, and put the child's world to right. I have never seen such a thing taught in scripture, but rather than the Blood of Christ can absolve us from guilt. The Blood removes our sin and shame! In a teaching tape on the book of Romans, Michael Pearl states he believes he has reached a state of sinless perfection here on this earth. If his premis for his ministry, is based on such a faulty theology, how can we take what he says, and apply it for our own lives?

This is really the harm that I see in the Pearl's ministry. The blood Jesus shed for us was so precious. So valuable, and the only way that sin could be forgiven, or guilt be absolved. While consequences are needed for the order of life, they can not, and do not have the kind of spiritual power that Pearl teaches it has. If a simple spanking could absolve us from sin and guilt, why was it necesarry for Christ to die? I do not have a direct quote for this line of thought from Pearl, but it is in the book To Train Up A Child. If you have heard of the Pearls, or perhaps if you follow their teachings, I would really encourage you to read through the more theological things the Pearl has to say about the rod. This is not about spanking, but more what a spanking does for a child. Does a spanking truely absolve the child from guilt? Does it remove sin? If the answers to those questions is no, can we really trust the advice from a man who bases his teaching on such flawed doctrine?

I do think the the Pearls teach lots of things that sound good. They teach how to have well behaved trained children. They teach that learning starts young. They teach that you need to approach your children in love. They talk of tieing your childs heartstrings. All of those things are correct. However, if they are teaching those things on the premise that you can remove your childs sin, is it wise for us to be following such a teacher who makes the Blood of Christ of no effect?

In conclusion my friend, I ask you today to consider the following:

When does doctrine matter?

When does insisting on complete submission become abusive or deadly?

Is Michael Pearl a good leader to follow based on a flawed premise of the atonement of sin?

Ultimately, Michael Pearl did not beat Lydia to death. Her parents did. But he did teach the parents that Lydia's salvation was on the line if they dared to back down. Unfortunatly, the parents understanding of that cost this little girl her life. Here are links to the news story, No Greater Joy, which is the Pearls website, and a few blogs about the insident that I found interesting. I do not agree with all this, but I thought I would give you the same information I have worked with.

http://www.nogreaterjoy.org/ -Pearls website

News Story

Blog

Blog-I found this blog linked on another blog. This is truely what I was trying to communicate..

I know that this post has gotten long.. And I know that many people think I have stepped way out of line in even writing this.. But that is okay. For my facebook readers, I would like to request that all comments be sent to me via a private message, because I really do not want this to turn into a debate. I have spent a several days drafting this, and I have done my best to say what is on my heart in love. Thanks!

Thy Rod and Thy Staff...

Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth the rod hateth his own son; but he that loveth him, chaseneth him besides.

Proverbs 23: 13-14 Withhold not correction from a child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

Psalm 23:4 Yea though I walk through the valley of the shaddow of death, I shall fear no evil, for Thou art with me. Thy rod, and Thy staff, they comfort me.

Genesis 49:10 The septre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from until Shilo come, and unto him shall the gathering of the people be.

The original hebrew word is Shebet. The hebrew lexicon defines this word as:

A large walking stick, held by the head of the family
A shepherds crook
A king's septer
A clan, or tribe
A club, or sharp spear

In the OT the "rod" was a sign of authority. The head of the family held the rod, and that was a status that allowed them to instruct and teach their family.

I am not really trying to get into the "spank or not to spank" arguement here, but I do feel from the reading I have done from the original language, that the verses in Proverbs perhaps have more to offer than simply a beating with a stick. (Since the word used litterally means walking stick, or shepherds staff, we must then understand that this was a larger instrument than is generally used in our culture)

From what I know about hebrew, (which granted is not much, but I am learning :) ) It is a beautiful language full of poetry and word pictures, and many many metaphors. The hebrew people tended to use symbols and word pictures to communicate. There are beautiful examples of these all through the Psalms and Proverbs esp, since those books are very poetry focased. Psalms 23 is considered a clasic example of this type of language.

I find it interesting that the same word is used in Gen 49:10, to refer to the authority in the tribe of Judah. Since there was not (at least, not recorded biblically) an actual septre that passed from generation to generation in Judah, we are left to conclude that this is also a metaphore to mean an authority. One comentator I read, said that this verse is considered to be highly messianic in nature. The word "shebet" meaning the litteral authority of Christ himself.

All of this to say, that while there may be a case to say that the verses in Proverbs instruct a parent to use the rod, or walking stick as a method to hit their child (another verse in proverbs seems to imply on the back.. See Proverbs 29:19) Or, perhaps, the way spanking is done today can even be supported by these verses..

I wonder though if there is more here than what we give the text credit for. Perhaps we are missing the real point, because the ideas and culture simply to not translate well into english.

Perhaps what is really being stated (again, perhaps not exclusivly) is that we need to be the spiritual authority in our childrens life. Perhaps the rod, is more of a God given sign of that authority, and it should be used to dicipline, which means to diciple, train, teach, and nurture.

I know that this thought and concept goes against the way that most americans read those verses. I am not claiming to be right, but it definatly is food for thought for me as I consider what things I need to be doin to train and instruct Judah.. To use the rod of spiritual authority, under my husband.. To train him up in the way he should go.

SURPRISE!

I am posting a blog entry!


I have not posted in a long time, and thought I should update you all on what I have been up too. I have pictures of Judah from the last several months, but I have to admit, there are not nearly as many as I thought I would have.. I will have to go through them and find them.. Maybe a project for tomorrow.. Or, maybe if he is in a good mood, we will do a mini photo shoot!


All of his professional pictures are AWESOME! But they don't give us a CD like Jason does, (How I wish Jason was closer) So, I will have to check the copyright thing and see if I am even allowed to scan them all and put them up here..


So, I have not posted since August huh.. Wow..
Well, here it goes.


August- Judah was 2 months old. Almost the entire month, I had some scary medical issues, which turned out to only be a vitamin B defincency. But in the month of August, I had 12 Dr appointments, 4 MRI's and blood drawn way to many times. I also nearly gave up nursing my darling little boy, since I was out of it so much of the time, and it was way easier just to give him a bottle. Especially for Chris when I had some panic attacks. I am so grateful that God did not let me quit, and that I had several people encouraging me to keep nursing.
September- Put in my 2 weeks at Aenta, and then got fired due to my medical issues. This was a little frustrating for me, because Chris and I were doing really well paying off all the debt, and thought I would only have to work for about a year.. But it was also a blessing in disguise. They fired me the same week I started getting my injections, and made a full recovery, so Chris didnt miss any more work babysitting both Judah and I, and I have been a stay at home mommy ever since. It truely is a blessing to get to be such a major part of his life. Plus, he seems to learn something new every hour! I can not imagine the world from his eyes where everything is new, and exciting. I love watching the wonder in his eyes at every thing he sees and touches. This is the month he got really grabby too! Especially when we wanted to eat! He also starting the teething process, which has yet to produce a tooth, but he has the drool, and sparatic tooth pain. Maybe by January. The first weekend in Sep was Labor Day. Chris's family always goes to Family Camp in Cooperstown. This year my Uncle Kevin from Texas made it up, and he brought my Grandma and Grandpa up. My pastor from Pembina was the speaker, and it was good to see him again.


Judah also got to know my family a little better, when I stayed with them for a week, just to finish recovering from my medical issues.


October- Judah is 4 months old now. And this was a busy busy month! We had his dedication on Oct 11, and a lot of my family was able to make it as well as Chris's mom and dad. The thing I remember most about this month, was trying to get Judah's SS card. I put it in a very safe place, and have not seen it since, so I went down to get another one. I brought his birth certificate, as well as the discharge papers from the hospital, where we indicated we wanted to apply for one. I was wearing Judah in a ring sling when I went into the office, and they told me I needed to prove he was alive! So frustrating! So I asked what kind of proof they needed, and they said the only thing they could accept was immunization records. I felt like banging my head on the wall!.. The lady looked completly shocked when I explained that we did not immunize our child, and told me he would not get into school without it.. So, I explained that we were planning to homeschool, and her jaw dropped even more.. So, she went searching around for almost 10 minutes to see if there was anything else I could present.. Other than the live baby of course! Long story short, I made 3 more trips, before I found out I could present a dedication certificate.
Fun month!


Also in October, I found out all my crazy ideas have a name! And I am not the only one! I practice attachment parenting, which consists of things like wearing the baby, breastfeeding for a min of 1 year, and maybe longer depending on the relationship of mother and baby, cosleeping, tending to baby's cries right away, ect. And my other crazy ideas, about natural living, vaccines, cloth diapers, elimination communication and such is referred to as "crunchy!" Its nice not to feel alone. I discovered an amazing online community called "Gentle Christian Mothers." It has been such a blessing!
Wow, this is getting long! I will try to talk faster!
November- Judah is 5 months old, and the beginning of the month, he got pnemonia, and was hospitalized for 3 days.. Talk about stress! That completly threw off his sleep schedule, and made him way more clingy.. Which is why we were kindof forced into co-sleeping. Now that we are, I love it.. Most of the time. We celebrated Thanksgiving twice with Chris's family.. The weekend before with Stacy, Rich and Bethany, Chris's sister and family, and the second time with Kelly and Brian, his other sister, and her fiance.. Both times at his parents house. It was nice for me to have people to hang out with, and Chris didnt complain about the time off of work..
I also went shopping on Black Friday, and LOVED it.. I found it exhilerating, though my mom disagrees. :)
Somewhere in here, Judah started getting up on hands and knees, and tries really hard to crawl.


December started off with Chris's birthday on the first. Judah got a little sick again this weekend, but more to freak me out than anything.


I went to the Toby Mac concert on Sunday night and it was AMAZING! It was cool to see a preformer so on fire for the Gospel of Christ. I totally support his ministry.



Wow.. What a long post.. I am going to have to go find pictures now.. :)

This is me and Judah when we did his 1 month pictures in July. I know they are a little late, but still precious. These were done by the same guy who did our wedding, Jason Siebolds of Renegade Photography. We have been thrilled with his work.. He does a wonderful job, and we only wish he lived closer so he could do every months shots of Judah. He is for sure worth the cost difference between him and Wal-Mart..

This is another one by Jason at 1 month, with Chris.

Okay Grandma, he doesnt need to grow up that fast! Judah's first driving lesson, at camp, Sep, 2009.

And last one I could find real quick was a family pic also Sep 2009. Like Chris's hair? I did it myself! It doesnt look like that now though.. His hair grows fast.. It isnt fair.

Well, with that I will publish my little book.. Ahem, I mean post! I hope I will get better at this.. It might stimulate me to actually take more pics!

More Judah, again

Here are more pictures of the little one! This one, (below) is a pic of him in his new Jumperoo.. We got it for him on Sat, and already he has spent hours in this thing. He laughs and giggles, because he can swing himself all over. He really want to be independent, so I think this helps him feel more like his own baby..



Again, another picture of the amazing new toy!

It got pretty cold here recently.. Chris and I realized we didnt (and still dont) have a lot of clothes that are going to be warm enough for winter. Here he is with his new winter hat on. He doesnt seem to mind it, unless it falls down and covers his eyes. We learned the hard way that this is a very very bad idea. Makes babies very unhappy.

He is also working hard at learning how to crawl.. Most of the time, tummy time makes him mad, because he isnt crawling yet. But he is mobile! I put him on the bed friday afternoon, and put pillows all around him.. After he woke up from his nap, he somehow managed to roll onto his tummy, and scoot right off the bed. He is doing alright. I think he scared mommy even more than himself!

This is Gwen, Chris's mom and Judah. It is the best grandparrent picture that we have so far. It was taken tonight out at Rob and Gwens place. Grandma and Grandpa just love having him around!

So, there you go. I finally got around to putting more pics of Judah on the computer.. I am not nearly as punctual with this as Rachel is.. Dont know how she does it..

If you have access to facebook, all the pictures I have on the computer of him at all are on my page. If you are on facebook, this is probably just repeats, but for those who are not, here is some Judah to whet you appatite! IMO, he is a major cutie!

Judah at almost 8 weeks.. Even some Smiles!!

Look at my super cute smile! Mommy has been trying to get a smile on camera for almost a month. And I finally cooperated.

Here is another one. I was in a happy mood. I finally fit into my church outfit. It is a size 6 month, and I am not even 2 yet. But then, I am a big boy!

Mommy really likes this picture. She thinks this looks the most like me in real life.

I sneezed, right as mommy took the picture.!!!

And one last washed out smile! Sorry the color is bad, mommy did a lot of playing with the lights.

I finally got more pics of Judah to share. I actually have more, but I lost the camera that they are on. Someday I will find it.

Hope you enjoy them!

Judah is 3 weeks old!

Here are some pictures of Judah at 3 weeks old! Today, the 29th, is his 3 week birthday. He has very wide eyes, that take everything in around him. He loves to study your face, and lights facinate him.



I just love the way his mouth looks. He looks so curious about his world. He likes to watch things, and watching his expressions as he takes in his world is so fun!

Here he is in hid boppy. They are simply one of the best inventions in the world! The boppy pillow has only hundrends of uses, and Judah likes sitting in it and watching whatever mommy and daddy are doing.

Here he is in the carseat that Aunt Kelly gave him. He has a love hate relationship with it. Sometiems he will scream when he is put in it, and sometimes it puts him to sleep.

I think this one was taken a few days ago, so he isnt quite 3 weeks yet. He loves his pacifier.

Judah is 3 weeks old today! Here are some pics that I took throughout the day. The first couple are him in just his new cloth diapers. Robin, my pastors wife, gave me her old stash, and I am thrilled! Probably 700 dollars worth of diapers at least. We love this little guy very much! God has given us a blessing that is so huge..

I never really understood what people would always say about the love a parent has for their child until he was born. We would not trade him for anything in the whole world! We are already praying for and anticipating the day that he accepts the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. We know that God has a plan for him, and cant wait to see how God works in his life.

God has been teaching me a lot about trust over the last several months. Life has been so unpredictable, and right now Chris and I are trying to figure out what the future holds now that Judah is here. Our small group bible study has been so challenging. We have been talking about Jonathan and his armour bearer. There is a story about a time when Israel was being attacked by the Phillistines, and Saul, who was King at that time, was spending his time under a pomagranate tree drunk. Jonathan took his armour bearer, and decided to attack a Phillistine outpost alone, just the two of them. The interesting thing is that he didnt know if God was going to bless his efforts or not. What he did know is that God had the power to give them victory, and that ultimatly, God's will would be accomplished. So he stepped out on faith and put his life on the line.

It has been a great study, and is based on the book Chasing Daylight by Erwin McManus. If you ever get the chance to read this book it is VERY good, but VERY convicting and challenging.

I guess the gist of that whole thought is that God has been very good to us, and even though we have no idea where he is leading us, we are doing our best to walk with baby steps in the direction we think he is, and allowing him to guide us. Its scary, but looking back on the last year, God so knew where we needed to be, and He got us here. What a mighty God we serve!

Second Night at Home

Last night was Judah's second night at home. The first night, (Wednesday) was really rough. He was wide awake and fussy till 3:30, and then was up again at 6. Last night went much much better. He slept for 3 hours, and was only up 3 or 4 times.. It was wonderful! I am really enjoying having him here. He is a little joy. Will keep you all updated!

More Judah!

This is mommy and my very first picture together! Other than one that Great Aunt Darla took, but this is the first one to go online. This is me with my rings. I love my rings! They were a gift that Mommy got for me at her baby shower.

Mommy thinks this looks like I am picking my nose, but I really and only stretching my very long fingers using my face!

Sorry this picture is crooked, Mommy is still trying to figure out how exactly to put pictures on blogspot. She has tried several times, but just can't seem to get it.

And, this one is turned the other way, but if you crank your neck just a bit, you will see this is Uncle Tyler. He just finished giving me a small bottle of Mommy's yummy milk.

This is my "I am very content and happy with life face." Mommy says she wishes she could see it more at 3 in the morning.

Here are the long awaited pictures of baby Judah! He is such a joy. He has his cranky moments, and God gave him a strong will, and he picked up a bit of a temper from somewhere. (Definatly not from Mommy) and we are looking forward to teaching him to bring it all into submission to Christ. Most of the time he is pretty content.. Especially during the day. Nightime can be another story!

Hope you all enjoy the pictures! Daddy wasnt here for pictures, he is trying to get some sleep, so that he can go back to work in the morning.

Love,

Jennie and Judah

Christopher Judah Hall!!

Well, After several weeks and months of waiting, Judah decided to make his enterance last night, June 8th at 9:21 pm! He is so cute! I am so tired though, I have not even gotten to the camera, so I will post a few of the pictures that Chris took of him. I know its funny that we are not in any of these, but trust me, there will be more!

Christopher Judah Hall

06-08-09, 9:21 PM

9lbs 3oz

22 Inches Long

14 1/4 head diameter

Big Feet, Big Toes, Long Fingers!

I have Daddys lips, Chin and Toes,

I have mommys nose, fingernails and ears!

We are so happy to finally meet him!

(Ps: Sorry the pics all ended up on the top.. I have yet to figure out how you get the pictures to show up where you want them on here.. :)

Another Update

Hello All,
I dont know if you are waiting as anxiously as I am for this baby to come, but so far, he has taken his precious time. On Monday, I had another dr's appointment, and everything looks good. God has been very good to us. Everytime they look at him, or moniter him, they tell us, wow.. He looks perfect! I know that God is taking care of him, but I am getting to the point that I really want to help!
I have yet another induction scheduled for the 8th (monday), But I really really want a natural birth. Chris and I have been talking it over, and he thinks that maybe we can have baby #2 at home. I really wanted to have this one at home, but Chris was a little nervous just in case something went wrong. But since things seem to look so good, depending on delivery, we may just have the next baby at home.

Someday I will post a birth announcement and pictures! I have been having contractions on and off all last night and now this morning, so we will see if that brings anything about.

I went to the Chiropractor yesterday, and decided that they are way worth the money! My back feels better than what it has in years. She said my pelvis was out of joint, and that could be why all my other labor has stopped. (I have been in active labor like 5 times. Contractions get to be about a minute apart, intense and about a minute long, and then it stops.) She said the baby might not have been able to decend properly, so now that I have been adjusted I am hoping he will come soon!

Thank you for all your prayers and support!
Love, Chris, Jennie, and baby Judah.

Update

Hello All!
Just a quick note to let you know the day is coming!! I was in labor last night for about 5 hours before it stopped. I had a regularly scheduled doctors appointment this morning, and the baby is engaged, and my cervix is soft, and I have made progress as far as dialation goes!! Today not much has been going on, but I am hoping my body is storing up energy for either tomorrow or Wednesday! I am not sure how soon I will be able to put pictures up, but I will try to post a little blurb when Judah or Rylie makes their appearance!
Love,
Jennie

Baby Shower

Last Sunday, the ladies at my church threw me a baby shower. I thought I would share a couple of the pictures. Soon, there will be pictures of the actual baby!! The picture below is of my mom, Gwen, Jeanie and Robin from church, working on one of the games. The one to the right, is me opening gifts. We had a lot of fun, and we recieved many

Usefull things that we will definatly put to use. I got lots of breastfeeding supplies, such as bags and ointment. Then there were the really cute baby things like clothes, and bibs, blankets and so much more. Today we finally got everything all put away, and the diaper bag packed! Its getting closer. My due date is 2 weeks from today!

Politically Correct Little Red Riding Hood

I got this in a email a while back from a friend, and thought I would share it with all of you:
While it is humorous, it always makes me think of where all these seemingly "small" legislations are heading. I sure hope that my kids dont find them living in this kind of a "normal" world.

"There once was a young person named Little Red Riding Hood who lived onthe edge of a large forest full of endangered owls and rare plants that would probably provide a cure for cancer if only someone took the time to study them. Red Riding Hood lived with a nurture giver whom she sometimes referred to as "mother", although she didn't mean to imply by this term that she would have thought less of the person if a close biological link did not in fact exist. Nor did she intend to denigrate the equal value of nontraditional households, although she was sorry if this was the impression conveyed. One day her mother asked her to take a basket of organically grown fruit and mineral water to her grandmother's house.
"But mother, won't this be stealing work from the unionized people who have struggled for years to earn the right to carry all packages between various people in the woods?" Red Riding Hood's mother assured her that she had called the union boss and gotten a special compassionate mission exemption form.
"But mother, aren't you oppressing me by ordering me to do this?" Red Riding Hood's mother pointed out that it was impossible for womyn to oppress each other, since all womyn were equally oppressed until all womyn were free.
"But mother, then shouldn't you have my brother carry the basket, since he's an oppressor, and should learn what it's like to be oppressed?"And Red Riding Hood's mother explained that her brother was attending a special rally for animal rights, and besides, this wasn't stereotypical womyn's work, but an empowering deed that would help engender a feeling of community.
"But won't I be oppressing Grandma, by implying that she's sick and hence unable to independently further her own selfhood?" But Red Riding Hood's mother explained that her grandmother wasn't actually sick or incapacitated or mentally handicapped in any way, although that was not to imply that any of these conditions were inferior to what some people called "health".
Thus Red Riding Hood felt that she could get behind the idea of delivering the basket to her grandmother, and so she set off. Many people believed that the forest was a foreboding and dangerous place, but Red Riding Hood knew that this was an irrational fear based on cultural paradigms instilled by a patriarchal society that regarded the natural world as an exploitable resource, and hence believed that natural predators were in fact intolerable competitors. Other people avoided the woods for fear of thieves and deviants, but Red Riding Hood felt that in a truly classless society all marginalized peoples would be able to "come out" of the woods and be accepted as valid lifestyle role models.
On her way to Grandma's house, Red Riding Hood passed a woodchopper, and wandered off the path, in order to examine some flowers. She was startled to find herself standing before a Wolf, who asked her what was in her basket. Red Riding Hood's teacher had warned her never to talk to strangers, but she was confident in taking control of her own budding sexuality, and chose to dialogue with the Wolf. She replied,
"I am taking my Grandmother some healthful snacks in agesture of solidarity."
The Wolf said, "You know, my dear, it isn't safe for a little girl to walk through these woods alone." Red Riding Hood said,
"I find your sexist remark offensive in the extreme, but I will ignore it because of your traditional status as an outcast from society, the stress of which has caused you to develop an alternative and yet entirely valid worldview. Now, if you'll excuse me,I would prefer to be on my way." Red Riding Hood returned to the main path, and proceeded towards her Grandmother's house.
But because his status outside society had freed him from slavish adherence to linear, Western-style thought, the Wolf knew of a quicker route to Grandma's house. He burst into the house and ate Grandma, a course of action affirmative of his nature as a predator. Then, unhampered by rigid, traditionalist gender role notions, he put on Grandma's nightclothes, crawled under the bedclothes, and awaited developments. Red Riding Hood entered the cottage and said,
"Grandma, I have brought you some cruelty free snacks to salute you in your role of wise and nurturing matriarch." The Wolf said softly
"Come closer, child, so that I might see you."Red Riding Hood said,
"Goddess! Grandma, what big eyes you have!"
"You forget that I am optically challenged."
"And Grandma, what an enormous, what a fine nose you have."
"Naturally, I could have had it fixed to help my acting career, but Ididn't give in to such societal pressures, my child."
"And Grandma, what very big, sharp teeth you have!"The Wolf could not take any more of these specist slurs, and, in areaction appropriate for his accustomed milieu, he leaped out of bed, grabbed Little Red Riding Hood, and opened his jaws so wide that shec ould see her poor Grandmother cowering in his belly.
"Aren't you forgetting something?" Red Riding Hood bravely shouted.
"You must request my permission before proceeding to a new level of intimacy!" The Wolf was so startled by this statement that he loosened his grasp on her. At the same time, the woodchopper burst into the cottage, brandishing an ax.
"Hands off!" cried the woodchopper.
"And what do you think you're doing?" cried Little Red Riding Hood. "If I let you help me now, I would be expressing a lack of confidence in my own abilities, which would lead to poor self esteem and lower achievement scores on college entrance exams."
" Last chance, sister! Get your hands off that endangered species! Thisis an FBI sting!" screamed the woodchopper, and when Little Red RidingHood nonetheless made a sudden motion, he sliced off her head.
"Thank goodness you got here in time," said the Wolf. "The brat and her grandmother lured me in here. I thought I was a goner."
"No, I think I'm the real victim, here," said the woodchopper. "I've been dealing with my anger ever since I saw her picking those protected flowers earlier. And now I'm going to have such a trauma. Do you haveany aspirin?"
"Sure," said the Wolf."Thanks.""I feel your pain," said the Wolf, and he patted the woodchopper on his firm, well padded back, gave a little belch, and said "Do you have any Maalox?"