A Week of Fasting, Spontaneity and Many Firsts

WARNING:
After a week of no blogging, pregnant mama went a little blog crazy while Daddy and Peyton went out for ice cream and Gracyn napped. Long post ahead.

Our Pastor challenged us to fast this past week. We decided to give up the television, so when we got home from church, I put the remotes away so no one would accidentally turn it on. Sure, there's a power button on the front of TV, but who would actually walk over to it, right? And me, I gave up our blog. Reading allowed, no time spent writing posts and playing with photos.

It became a week full of "firsts". The kids began sleeping in Peyton's room after a very structured routine of baths, snacks, reading time, and then straight to bed. No more paci's outside of the bed. No television. And, Peyton started attending a new pre-school. (If you're wondering if the structured bedtime routine is really a first in our household, I must admit that the answer is YES. . .and it's wonderful!)

 

 

Another very special "first" celebrated this week, was Peyton really experiencing Jesus, by using his very own hands as a result of two challenges presented to us by our Pastor. Fasting was the first, and spontaneity the second. When we explained to Peyton what we were doing and why, we told him it was a way to remind us of all that we've been blessed with and to give our family a chance to connect more with each other and with God. We were talking about the hot weather and how we should bring water to the needy. When Peyton overheard our conversation he became very interested in helping. (He originally offered his DVDs, but we convinced him that water might be a better option!) Darryl, Peyton and I brought bottles of cold water and hot dogs to the needy serving the thirst and hunger of close to 200. The experience was incredible. To hear Peyton saying, "God bless you," and pulling shoes out of his basket to bring in case there were children who went barefoot, and giving high-fives to people who could very easily have been judged as dirty was such a blessing.

 

No television after dinner lead us outdoors. We spent time swimming, walking, and at the park!! And best of all, our family enjoyed time reconnecting with each other and with God.

 

 

 

Another first. . .Peyton is starting SOCCER!!!! I can't believe they sell cleats for kids his size. We had no clue what we were doing in the soccer store. And even though Darryl looks like he might be able to play, he never has. . .I love my boys.

 

 

Gracyn's first time climbing up the ladder, spotting and butt lift compliments of daddy, while very nervous mommy held her breath.

 

Are you familiar with the Backyardigan's? Can you hear my kids singing, "Gotta hold on tight, Hold Tight"? I think they're trying to tell me that I'm in the home stretch and they're baby sister is on the way. . .

 

Stay tuned. . .Next post will include updated belly shots. Just about 6 weeks to go, although if you went with the comments I receive on a daily basis, I'll be lucky if I make it another 4.