Coffee CubBuster

Well as they say, be careful what you wish for... shortly after the last post, things have seem to unravel here at the Smith house, and as I hope things weren't too "normal," that wish was granted. It has felt eerily like we are living back three months ago. Not only has it been unseasonably hot (which makes my autumn heart melt), but Levi is now throwing up most of his meals throughout the day. Both my boys contacted the usual fall head cold. The difference between the two of them ten days into the cold is that Silas coughs normally to clear his throat, while the extra mucus that makes Levi coughs triggers his gag reflex. Some of this is completely mental as we seek to distract him by all means necessary. However, nine times out of ten, the battle is lost because he has learned that throwing up will solve any blockage issue. Unfortunately, as we've seen before, now Levi doesn't want to eat as much, and he seems to have much less energy than normal. My mommy heart...

It only seems natural to hope for seasons and circumstances that are relatively normal and problem-free. However, I'm learning that I'd rather have larger, rarer difficulties in my life than constant normalcy. Don't get me wrong, I'm not requesting a life of exhaustion that could be written into a major motion picture.  I think God gives us all times of respite for recovery after a storm. Because we live in a fallen world, hardships are simply part of life. Every single person will face problems, big and small, and if you live long enough, trying to avoid all things negative or difficult is an impossibility. Although, when problems arrive in the form of a familiar package, like minor health blimps on the radar, financial strains on the bank account, uncertain future employment, or relationship tensions, I begin to feel more stress, anxiety, and frustration than if a problem suddenly appears without notice or warning in an oversized, abnormal box. Yes there are similar e...

I heard a radio contest last weekend for any woman who went into labor on Labor Day. I can tell you, from personal experience, the money they were giving out would not have covered the NICU bill that I would have received had I actually gone into labor. We did have a little scare with baby boy 3 last week though, but thankfully it's just the pains of carrying a third child in half a uterus. :) I've practically given up any physical labor on my own part in hopes of cooking this cookie for at least two more months, but when you have a little one that can't walk yet, it makes resting nearly impossible. At least voluntarily giving up laboring has kept me off of bed rest and enjoying every possible second with our family of four while it lasts. When I feel those aches and pains, I praise God that I can have another baby. What a gift the past couple of weeks have been for us!  Bring it on third trimester! These boys make me tough- bring it! I love how much my boys love music...