Little Picket Fence

Our New Life

2011-06-30T12:58:00.001-05:00

Its been just a little over two weeks ago that we were introduced to our new baby girl. Life has not been the same since. Her beauty struck me when I first saw her. Such big brown eyes and dark skin. So different than my other babies yet so lovely. She has a raspy voice and long feet. Elizabeth Hope, we like to call her Lizzy or Lizzybell. There have been new challenges we have faced that we have not before. Bonding came natural before and now it takes work. She sleeps and eats well and coos and smiles at us all the time. We were told that she doesn't sleep at night and has colic before we got her. But since she's been here she sleeps great at night in her crib and is happy during the day. No colic. I would like to say we are just experienced parents or something like that, but I KNOW its the presence of our God. Our hope and prayer is that we bond more and more with Lizzy and that we continue to have the energy we need with two babies and a 3 year old on the house. We have been making great efforts spending quality time with all three. My love language is quality time and my biggest fear has been that the kids would feel unloved somehow if we don't spend enough time with them. We are now fully funded and we will be starting ministry on campus in August! So much is happening. My greatest sadness in all this is not being able to visit friends and family to meet our new girl. Hopefully it won't be too long.

Addie and Ethan are amazed by her. Ethan just stares and laughs at her and tries to wrestle. Addie keeps telling me she's so glad she has a sister now so they can play Barbies one day.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Interview

2011-05-21T15:00:00.001-05:00

Monday! This is the interview we've been waiting for for several weeks now. Once it happens it could only be a matter of a couple of weeks when they fly her here to her new home! I'm having to tell myself that it is all in Gods hands and He is the one that can make it all happen. It's crazy thinking I have a child that I haven't met yet but who is filling my heart and consuming my mind with longing. I wonder what she looks like and if her hair will be dark. What color are her eyes and will she feel how much she is loved when she is first held by us. I can't wait to call her by her name. She is 7 weeks old now. Too long to not be with us. I have collected a few things in a basket for her and washed all of Addie's baby clothes ready for her to wear.
Pray that all will go smoothly on Monday and that she will be with us soon.

Love,
The Nolands

Basket of goodies for Elizabeth

Update on Baby

2011-05-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

Many of you have been asking the status of getting Elizabeth so I just wanted to do a quick update. We heard yesterday from our state CPS that they have our paperwork and will be setting up an interview in the next 2 weeks. After that is completed we will be able to get her! So please be praying that the interview will happen soon. She has been in foster care for over a month now and we are ready to get her home! Thank you for all your love and encouragement during this time! We love you!

The Nolands

Wishpot

2011-04-20T11:47:00.001-05:00

If you've never heard of www.wishpot.com you need to check it out. You can create wish lists and registry lists all in one place! We've created a Baby Registry for Elizabeth since we need things for her in a short time. Since we will have 2 babies in diapers at the same time (oh my!) we are going to cloth diapering. There are so many choices now made to work with a busy mom. They have cute patterns for their buns, its green, and most of all for us, saves a butt-load of money. Literally. So check it out.

New Life and Redemption

2011-04-18T09:47:00.001-05:00

I cannot believe it has taken me this long to blog again! So much transition has taken place since the last blog. We moved from our home in San Angelo to a few months of fundraising in Dallas and in Durham, NC for 6 weeks now. Addie will be 3 in less than 2 months and Ethan is trying to crawl. Our house on Duke street is coming together slowly but surely. I love walking at the Freshman campus seeing students and faculty walking the grounds. Still can't get over the beauty of this place with is grand stone buildings, towering trees and budding flowers at every corner. We love it here. All that's missing is all our loved ones being close by.

While there is plenty to talk about with being in a new place we also have a BIG new announcement. But first let me tell you a little bit about how it all came about. Two months ago I finally started reading a book that's been on my Kindle for months now. It's called "Choosing to SEE" by Mary Beth Chapman about the love and loss in a tragic accident of their 5 year old daughter they adopted from China. She tells the story of how they adopted 3 girls from China and beauty of it all. My heart was stirred for those who didn't have a home and needed love, not only our love but the love of Jesus. I really believe it was the Holy Spirit prompting me to read this book at this time. Little did I know it was preparing my heart for our own adoption. I've not really been one to claim that I was going to adopt one day. I always thought if God dropped that in our laps and I knew He wanted us to then I would. That's pretty much what happened. A few weeks ago we got word that one of Lennon's family members had had a baby girl and was in a bad situation and had left the baby without a home. As Lennon and I talked this over, we really couldn't get away from the feeling that this is a chance to do something very close to the heart of God. And regardless of all that is going on in our lives right now, we can't think of anything as important as giving this little girl a life and introducing her to a saviour one day.

Though it is a sad situation we are very excited to be adding this new joy to our lives. We are naming her Elizabeth Hope. Elizabeth means "God is my promise or oath" and Hope for the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Our request is that you all will pray for the process, court proceedings, finances, etc. that are necessary for this type of thing. Pray for the baby's health, and that God's hand would guide the situation. I will be able to pick her up in Texas in 3 weeks or so. I will be updating my blog about our journey. Thank you for all your love and support. God Bless, The Nolands.

4 Years and Counting

2010-10-08T09:37:00.000-05:00

Tuesday marked 4 years of marriage bliss for my husband and I. 4 years later we have moved to a new town, had 2 incredible adorable kids, lost freedom of getting to be alone whenever we want, yet treasure our alone moments more, grown with God together, and have taken greater risks together. I never would have thought we would have met the way we did or that I would have moved to west Texas but God had it all in His plan. I've never been more fulfilled in my life than being married to this wonderful man, ministering with him and supporting his vision and raising our children. God knew the desires of my heart and truly blessed me. I know that we will be ok no matter what we go through as long as we do it together. So here's to 4 years and many more to come! I love you Lennon! (you've grown in sexiness too!)

Mommy Time

2010-09-27T11:41:00.000-05:00

Things are looking better. Ethan is sleeping better at night and even slept 6 straight hours the night before last! (thank you "Babywise") We are getting better sleep and a better day to day schedule. Though its not easy, we are becoming more sane. I also attribute my sanity to my husband letting me get out of the house for a bit to clear my mind and refresh. The other night I spent some time at our local Starbucks. I sat and read a fashion mag and some advice on getting back to normal again (even though I know that will take a while). Had some refreshment and as I was driving home I couldn't wait to get back to my babies. Its so wonderful to get to raise these little ones. Let's just say I am so glad to be a mom.

Sweet Clementine Izzy and some fine cheeses!

Not Hiding

2010-09-20T13:36:00.000-05:00

Please read this blog from InCourage (a favorite of mine)
The Finding from InCourage Media
I am learning how to be more vunerable. With all the changes going on in our lives I've had to learn to reach out even more and allow others in. I'm not a shut off kinda person but I know I need to let others in even more and reach out as well. I have a great life. I really can't complain. But like everyone I have my hard times and weak times. I doubt myself and wonder if I can handle things. Like raising two kids now and moving to a new place with no family and hardly knowing anyone. The adventure part of me is looking forward to a new place and a God-given dream. But with new adventures come new fears. This is where I am realying on God. One thing I am realizing is that I was made me to be a mom, wife and lover of Jesus and I'm not alone. I think just knowing that makes all the difference. So be encouraged knowing that you are not alone and that we all need each other.

4 weeks today...

2010-09-10T15:13:00.006-05:00

Ethan is 4 weeks old today and I wanted to celebrate that milestone by posting one of the videos we took right after he was born. This one is of Addie holding him for the first time. She's such a natural. At one point you can hear her shushing and patting him. She was so sweet holding him. My favorite part is when she starts giggling with excitement. I think she was realizing that this baby really did come out like mommy and daddy have been telling her. Hopefully they will have more of these sweet moments in life rather than fighting. Here's hoping...

Ethan Scott

2010-08-31T11:30:00.008-05:00

Ok here's my official blog announcement that is long overdue. Blame it on the late nights and messy house and now two kids. Ethan Scott Noland is now 3 weeks old (my how time flies!) I LOVE LOVE LOVE him so much! Its so cool how God fills your love tank for one child and then gives you a whole other love tank for another one. That's the best way I know to describe it. I'm realizing more about God's love and how He can love all of His children the same. Ethan is my little cuddle bug. He seems to always want to snuggle right against my neck laying on my chest. He looks like his daddy. Since we have been married I've told Lennon I want a son that looks like his daddy and that's what I got! If you have read Mamo's blog you have read her account of the worship music in the background playing "overshadow me". I remember hearing that song between pushes and feeling God's presence in the room. It's funny cause I made a whole ipod mix to play for his birth. I was very selective on what songs I wanted played during what time. But my mom brought in her cd player and had the cd from our women's retreat in it. We just listened to it during labor. During the final pushing stages the Doctor told me to stop for the next contraction and everyone in the room was calm and quiet. You could hear the words of that song playing and it brought my thoughts to Mary and Jesus and how the Holy Spirit overshadowed her and she was pregnant with the son of God. I felt like the Lord was saying "I am with you, this is my child" Not in the virgin birth immaculate conception way but that Ethan is His and I can trust that my son will be taken care of. I feel like our family is more complete now (not saying weather or not we are done but that we feel like a much fuller family). So welcome Ethan to the world! You are love beyond measure.

He was born at 1:36pm at Medical Center Arlington weighing 8lbs 7oz and 19 1/2 inches

Addie meeting her "little brudder" (this is how she says it)

Here we are about to leave the hospital. We were so ready to get him home with his big sister.

Going home.

A Proud Father: Lennon was surprised how much he loves having a son!

At home having fun and catching smiles.

My Belly....

2010-08-06T15:21:00.002-05:00

My Belly is HUGE, my belly is still growing (hence more stretch marks), my belly is full of life! This may be a silly way to start a post but its been my primary focus.

A couple of nights ago I was so sure I was going into labor, having contractions 10 to 15 minutes apart for about 2 hours but...they dissipated. So the next day I was moping around thinking my body is playing tricks on me, getting me all excited and then never mind! Labor is so much more than the portrayal of a pregnant woman in a movie. It's really a process. I know everyone has different experiences with labor. They do not all happen the same. Yet it's never easy and it takes patience, pain, and pressing on. It's how my whole life has been lately. But something wonderful will come out of all the soreness and indigestion. I think God teaches us through pregnancy how to trust Him and wait on Him and for us to be reminded that He is with us .

I don't know for sure what day he will come, middle of the day or in the middle of the night but I know that when its time, its time! Ethan Scott Noland, you are already loved and we are all waiting to hold your little hand and kiss your soft face :) As your sister Addie puts it "Baby brudder, I'm ready to see you soon!"

Changes

2010-06-30T21:04:00.008-05:00

Today we officially handed over the keys to our first home. It was truly sad yet we had a knowing in our hearts that we are on the right path. We have enjoyed our time in San Angelo, TX. Tonight our home is at David and DeLana's house and then on to DFW. I keep thinking about how we will be bringing the new baby to the rent place (that we are trying to make more like home for the time being) and how different it will be. I remember how we set up the place, painted the kitchen, brought Addie home from the hospital and go into her cute green and pink room in the middle of the night to check on her. And watching her as she learned to crawl in the living room floor. This is not just about the house but about how we started our lives and our family out together in San Angelo. We will miss everything and everyone. We will miss our family, friends, church, and Chi Alpha family so much. Things feel a little weird with all the changes but we know we are in God's hands. We have seen His faithfulness over and over so far through this process.

This was then...

This is now...

Some Zack Morris for ya

2009-09-15T17:02:00.001-05:00

I thought this was pretty funny.....

Video Recaps | Full Episodes | Webisodes

PaperBackSwap :: Member Books

2009-09-09T10:58:00.001-05:00

PaperBackSwap :: Member Books

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I'm Tired

2009-09-02T22:16:00.002-05:00

Every bone in my body is tired right now, I cannot take much more in mentally. Overall its been a good day. Just a tiring one. I'm looking forward to waking up tomorrow and being refreshed once again. "His mercies are new every morning..." That verse is in my head. It's really cool when a verse sticks in your head and you think you were the one that thought it up but realize that it was God giving you that needed encouragement. It's just cool how the Lord put things in order like sleep, rest, renewal, work, love, play, etc. then it starts anew the next day. I'm ready for my fresh start in the morning.

Book Nerd

2009-08-29T20:35:00.008-05:00

I love books. Its a passion of mine. Not THE passion but a big one. I love anything from biographies, History, Classic Lit, Novels, etc. At TJC, I received an Associates of Art with a concentration in Literature. I ended up going to Dallas to do music after that so therefore never finished a Bachelors. I considered majoring in Literature, not to necessarily to teach it but just to immerse myself in all types of literature. My favorite spot in San Angelo is Hastings. I browse many books, then I get overwhelmed and end up picking up about 8 books to look at. Not focusing on just one. Home is where I actually focus. I think the first book that I remember reading for hours is The Secret Garden. I loved reading before that but never read for hours strait. I stayed outside in the cool fall air on our porch swing with a blanket reading and reading. Other all time favorites of mine are Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice, Lord of the Rings trilogy, Diary of Anne Frank, Out of Africa, etc. These days I definitely don't have the time for that but would do it if it allowed.

Today I ran across a youtube video that showed a particular, inspiring bookstore I visited in 2004. It's called Shakespeare and Company located in Paris. It is a jewel. To me, it was a magical book land. The smell is wonderful. You know the smell of books, old and new. I love that smell. On my visit, I remember two students from Oxford University were working there at the time, studying in France. One of them showed my friend and I where to buy cheap baguettes.

Why am I telling you all of this? Mostly me just reminiscing. But if you are a book nerd like myself, tell of your favorite book experiences... What it was like to read a certain favorite of yours, why do you love reading so much? I would also like to start a blog book club. If you are interested let me know! Below is a link to the video about Shakespeare and Co. If it interests you, you should watch THIS.

Addie walking

2009-08-21T16:36:00.004-05:00

My baby is taking several steps! We just got back from our retreat and when we got to my parents house last night she took 6 steps to Lennon! Does anyone know how i can flip this video, ughhh! Here's a video from today...

Leadership Retreat

2009-08-21T16:09:00.005-05:00

We had a wonderful time with Chi Alpha leaders this past week! Got home to pick up our little girl, who is taking several steps! Lennon and I are so blessed to have such wonderful guys and girls who are sharing this passion of reaching college students. We know we can't do this without them. We stayed at HEB camp in Leakey, TX. It was gorgeous! The Frio River runs in the middle of it. We hiked a mountain twice, I jumped off a cliff into the Frio and had some precious times of worship and teaching. Lennon and I love these guys and gals so much!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

spring

2009-05-05T20:21:00.004-05:00

Ok so I noticed the last time i blogged was january and I knew it had been a while but MY GOODNESS! Im a blog looser. Anyways now that I have internet at the house, I should be more frequent. I titled this blog "spring" because of the new things happening in our lives lately. We went for a walk around the neighborhood with A in her stroller to the SA lilly ponds. How gorgeous it was. Everything was in bloom and much greener than a couple of weeks ago. It was peaceful to enjoy each other and our home. After being on a long trip we are always so ready to be home.

We were very glad to be back at XA last night. The service was amazing. L did such a great job. He talked about his trip to Jordan and Syria and how he met a couple there that are from the states and are the missions directors in north Africa. This couple truly live for the people around them. Their 3 children all have middle eastern names. When the father was talking to L about reaching the muslim people there and what they want to see God do he would tear up, overwhelmed with love for the people. When was the last time we felt that way about the people we minister to? Then he met a man that was a former muslim that had been saved by seeing 5 different visions of Jesus. WOW!!! His testimony is incredible. An american christian girl had been teaching him English and one day in their lessons asked the question "do any of you believe in dreams and visions? Not the normal sleep kind of dreams but real visions from God?" Well this got his attention and he was interested in hearing more. He started talking to the girl more about Jesus and he was telling her he didn't accept him as God's son. she told him (which had to be from God) that Jesus is going to give him a vision! And over the course of a few weeks he had 5! L said that when he would talk about Jesus every time he would have to leave the room because he was overcome with emotion and men of that culture are not supposed to let others see them cry. He is now saved but not accepted by his family or by the Christians there because they believe he could be a spy and get them all in trouble. You see over there if you leave islam your family has the right to kill you. So he is alone somewhat in his faith but he is so bold L said and he is so full of joy!

God is doing some new things in our lives. I feel He is pulling us closer and showing us what it really means to live passionately for Him. Going deeper is not mystical or weird. It is searching for God ,for our Lord and knowing more about him. This is my hearts cry more now than ever before! I want to really live like a Christ follower.

Noland Family Pics

2009-01-05T12:00:00.003-06:00

Check out the beautiful family pictures from Sprinkle of Grace Photography:

Ready for the road again...

2009-01-05T11:49:00.002-06:00

Still in the Dallas area this morning. Our plan was to leave early this morning and then the sky decided to rain freezing rain. The temp isn't supposed to rise any more than 33 degrees and its worse going west. We haven't been home in over 2 weeks. I miss my house, my bed, my food and I'm sure A is missing her bed as well. Last night was the first night in the 2 weeks that A slept all night. So I am ready to back in the routine again. She is doing so many new things in even the past week. She is sitting up better, waving, rolling over like a rolly polly and her top two teeth have broken through her gums! Its amazing how fast babies learn.

Home is calling our names and we should be there by tomorrow afternoon. We have loved our time with the family but then you are just ready to be in your own environment.

Giving Thanks

2008-11-27T16:53:00.002-06:00

We are in the town of O today for Thanksgiving. Been feasting on my father-in-law's skillful cooking, watching some Cowboys and now wanting to take a nap but it 'aint happenin with the baby. What glorious food we had! My FIL made anything we mentioned we like so we had so much food it was insane. In my downtime I am crafting up some jewelry for presents and the like. I just wish we could get to see everyone on this day. My parents, brothers, sisters, the H's, and our other close friends. You all are so dear to us and we wish that we could see your lovely faces today. Reading Sarah's blog makes me want to drive to SA as well to see that side of our family. We miss you and hope you are all having a beautiful day. Love you all.

Girls Night!!!!!

2008-11-20T11:08:00.003-06:00

Your eyes are not deceiving you. I am posting a blog! Oh my. No I do not have internet at the house yet so I am up at the church doing my weekly preparations for band practice so I thought I would do a little blog. We are having a girls night at my house tomorrow night and I am so excited to be hosting! My Christmas decor will be up and we will be having hot drinks like hot cocoa, coffee, and spiced holiday drink of some sort. Click here for directions to my house and I hope many of you young women can make it.

Playing Around

2008-07-31T11:22:00.005-05:00

Here are a couple of videos I took with my camera last night. Just playing around with our "swaddle monkey" which is Lennon's pet name for her. She is really smiling a lot although these don't really capture that so I will have to work on a video with smiles. Also there are a few new photos for Nawna.

Nursery

2008-07-30T14:12:00.005-05:00

For those of you who haven't seen yet. Here are a few pics of the nursery. I have yet to put up her darling little chandelier from "land of nod". I also need to get some more for the walls (maybe paint polka dots) and an "e" to go at the end of her name since we are spelling it addie. So I will post updates when we get some more done. Happy looking...

New Corner

2008-07-29T11:33:00.004-05:00

We have turned a new corner in our lives as a family. Addielyn Faith Noland was born on June 4th, 2008 at 6:50pm. She was a whopping 8lbs 1oz. and 20 inches long. It sure felt like it too. Yes I did have "the drugs" but the pushing felt like it would never end. But our baby came into this world perfectly healthy and beautiful. The first thing I noticed about her was her long arms flinging about and as soon as I took her into my arms for the first time she just starred up at me so peacefully. I could not believe that in just a matter of hours what we had waited for for 9 months was here. I find it hard to fathom that you would not believe in a wonderful, loving God after experiencing the birth of a child. During the first few weeks, fear set in of something bad happening to her. I could not imagine her ever being hurt. But then the Lord was showing me a new place of trust in Him. So I placed her in His hands and am trusting Him to leading us on how to raise this beautiful creature of His. I cannot wait to journey on the road ahead after a family of 2 became 3. Here are a few pics of her when we first took her home. I will be updating soon with new ones because she is now a little smiley faced girl.

6 more weeks....

2008-04-03T15:16:00.004-05:00

till I get to start a new life being at home when A is born (which is only 9 weeks away) and working in ministry as I have desired to for close to 5 years now. I am excited about being in the place that God has called me to and also a little nervous. I know its going to work out but its being in that new place of trusting God even more. It's a new chapter that I am so ready for. I am getting really antsy at work though. I just know that God has some great things ahead with our little one and with Chi Alpha. I think I need some prayer for some patience till then. I hope it goes by faster than it has lately.

Update on the Baby Room, and other stuff.

2008-03-10T11:29:00.007-05:00

Well, we have the painting done. The color is called "Shy Blossom" and is a springy green. I love it! Next step is to put Roman shades up that I found on potterybarnkids.com. L and I are going to our first baby class called "Baby Basics" to teach, well...the basics. I am excited about this new chapter in our lives. She has been kicking like crazy lately. She even woke me up last night with some kicks in the sides. The one thing L and I keep on saying is how crazy all this is and how awesome God is to make something so wonderful inside a woman's belly! Here's a link http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-27-weeks_1116.bc to show what all is developing at 27 weeks. What got me is that she can open and close her eyes now. How amazing *sigh... I will post some pics later of the room and such.

Brooke Fraser

2008-02-18T08:55:00.002-06:00

If you are looking for some new songs to put on your ipod or an artist that will speak to your heart you need to check out Brooke Fraser. She is a native of Sydney, Australia and is like the pop star of Australia right now. She also sings and write songs for Hillsong. Songs like "None But Jesus" "Lead Me To The Cross" and "Hosanna". I love her music so much and wanted to share her with the blogger world if you have no clue who she is. Check out the video below to the song Shadowfeet. I love what they did with this song in the video. The song speaks of being found in the Lord when everything is falling around. Check her out! I love this girl.

Shadow Feet
Walking, stumbling
On these shadow feet
Toward home, a land that I've never seen
I am changing
Less and less asleep
Made of different stuff than when I began

And I have sensed it all along
Now fast approaching is the day

When the world has fallen out from under me
I'll be found in you, still standing
When the sky rolls up and mountains fall on their knees
When time and space are through
I'll be found in you

There's distraction
Buzzing in my head
Saying in the shadows it's easier to stay
But I've heard rumours of true reality
Whispers of a well-lit way

You make all things new

Nursery

2008-02-15T13:23:00.003-06:00

The Preparations are about to begin....

There seems like so much to do before she gets here!
I have been trying to settle on nursery colors and such. These are two rooms I found on potterybarnkids.com. Two different greens for the walls. I really do like the dark furniture.

So I am trying to decide between the looks of these two nurserys. If she really turns out to be a girl (we get another sonogram in April) I will accent with pink and brown. If not we can always accent with other colors for the boy look. What do you girls out in the blogging world think between the two? I need imput on which colors....

Here is the first. The lighter side of the green. I like the look with the chandelier, soft pinks, and the vintage toile...

Here is the brighter fun green. I like this one too.

V-Day

2008-02-15T10:22:00.009-06:00

The Celebration of love.....

What a beautiful evening Lennon treated me to! He suprised me by taking me to the River Terrace for a candlelight dinner with filet minon and a delicious chocolate cake with cream and a strawberry. You can't have Valentines without chocolate. It was very romantic and full of laughter. We must be getting old because we were planning on a movie afterwards at the theater but it sounded better to both of us to just watch a dvd at home and rest. I love this man. He is so good to me. What more could a pregnant girl want?

THE FLOWERS

HIS GIFT FROM ME

THE GLORIOUS CAKE

LENNON LIKES THIS ONE

Sonogram

2008-01-11T12:38:00.000-06:00

Finally, I got the sonogram pics on a disc! This is our little girl. (Well 85% it's a girl) which we are very excited about! I can't wait to see her! The first picture shows her face looking right at you and then you can see her elbow, belly and legs. I'll have another one in about 10 weeks! It was so amazing seeing her move her little feet and arms.

THIS ONE IS WHAT TELLS US SHE IS A GIRL:

What He Does

2007-12-20T10:52:00.000-06:00

He brings me joy
He brings laughter to my heart
Which he has stolen.

It sounds crazy but I don't think
Two people were more meant for each other

He knows my weakness
He knows my strength
With who He finds the same strength in.

The Lord knew what He was doing
When He brought us together.

He loves who I am
He loves who I want to be
More like Christ.

I will love him as much as I can
With the time God has given us on this earth.

I love you Lennon. Like we have said to each other before, I am glad we didn't end up with anyone else but each other. You are the love of my life and I am better with you than without.

Christal

Found

2007-12-17T14:01:00.000-06:00

Yes He is back! Our little Ranger has been found. We put an add in the paper and it came out just yesterday. Then after church we got a call saying that they thought they have our dog that was in the paper. When we got there to pick him up he was so excited to see us and how much I wanted to be upset with him for getting out but I just loved on him. So now no more wondering...thank the Lord. We are a complete family once again. Here is an older pic of him at 6 months, he is now 10 months.

Lost Puppy

2007-12-12T14:33:00.000-06:00

The Noland family is sad today because our beloved dog Ranger is lost. He got out of the dog pin somehow last night and have not been able to find him. Please pray that we will find him soon or that he will come back. We love this dog. :(

Sweet Moment

2007-12-05T11:48:00.001-06:00

Last night, during out usual routine of settling into bed, I was reading out of one of my pregnancy books. For some reason, I skipped towards the end when it talks about labor and delivery (kinda scary to think about). One section was talking about the part where the baby arrives and is cleaned and all. The book suggested that the "coach", Lennon, tell the mom how great she did. So out of nowhere I looked at L and said, "OK, now after I have the baby the book says you need to congratulate me on how great I did giving birth" and he said with a huge grin on his face "Of course I will tell you that, you will do great". For a split second we were just grinning from ear to ear (I was getting a little teary eyed) and thought about that moment to come. Wow! How amazing it will be....

The Fog Has Cleared

2007-12-03T13:16:00.001-06:00

It's been too long between blogs. I will shape up soon as a blogger...

These past few days have been tough (on my body and mind). I can breath better now. My prescription has helped clear the fogginess. Now all I have leftover is a cough but even that is feeling better. Being at the edge of my second trimester I feel the energy coming alive in my veins and I feel ready to do more. Praise God!

Working at The Salvation Army, you see a lot of people at their lowest point. It makes you realize how good you have it and so very thankful. I admit I have been upset that I have not been my good feeling self lately. Its' definitely worth it for this wonderful baby but I just wanna feel a little like myself. Now I can see that light at the end of the tunnel.

So I just want to share my joy of coming out of the haze of sickness and getting ready for the "most wonderful time of the year". At the same time I feel the Lord nudging me to wake up more often thinking about how can I help someone besides myself today.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-28T09:27:00.000-06:00

First of all, I appoligise for taking so long to post again. We have been out of town and I have been sick with a sinus infection and actually made it to work today. I just wanted to post some pictures of our Thanksgiving with my family in Canton. We had such a great time goofing around. I miss them but we were glad to be back in San Angelo as well.

Heartbeat

2007-11-14T12:51:00.000-06:00

Today was our second Dr.'s appointment for baby Noland. I was not as nervous this time going in (except for the blood work). It always seems like it takes forever to see the Dr. We were wondering what all would happen in this meeting.

As we waited I sat in on the patient table while Lennon sat next to me. We were so giddy and acting so silly that anyone who would have heard us would have thought we were loony people. The doctor came in and said "lets see if we can pick up a heartbeat. It may be a little early but we will try." He used his listening device, which also had a speaker on it, so we could here the noises as well. Then all of the sudden, a fast, strong heartbeat was heard. How exciting! I wanted to leap up with joy. As we were hearing our baby's heartbeat for the first time Lennon squeezed my hand a little tighter and I could feel the joy he had as well. Its amazing that our little one is only 1 1/2 in long and already has fingernails developing. This is a great journey to be on...

Christmas is Coming!

2007-11-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

So am I wierd because I am already excited about Christmas?! I'm seriously about get me some Christmas music to listen to....

My Friend

2007-11-02T09:02:00.001-05:00

Well I am excited because my best friend Lauren, from Arlington is coming to town! Lauren, her husband, their little boy and my little brother will be traveling here today. I haven't seen her in over 3 months. One of our plans include making this awesome Japanese dish called "Gyozas". Oh so you think you've had 'em before,huh? Not like ours, you haven't. All from scratch and they taste glorious. It will take us about 3 hours to make them. Apart from that we will be catching up on life, marriage, ect. Theres nothing like an old friend to sit and be yourself with.

What a Day....

2007-10-29T10:08:00.000-05:00

I woke up Saturday night very nauseous and with my head spinning. I knew I shouldn't have eaten all those crab ragoons. I was very determined not to throw up since it is still a scary thing to me. Finally at about 8:30am Sunday morning I did it. That's all I'm going to say about that. All day yesterday I was a mess, nauseous, dizzy, didn't want to even get up to go to the bathroom. As the night went on I was feeling better and this morning I woke up without nauseousness. Now I feel it creeping back. Does anyone have suggestions (besides eating crackers) to beat this nauseous feeling? *sigh.. I am so ready for this part of the pregnancy to be over!

Halloween Pets

2007-10-25T09:58:00.000-05:00

Ok, get ready for a laugh! This video shows how pet owners dressed up their pets for Halloween. Take a look

Tagged!!

2007-10-22T10:36:00.000-05:00

Thank you nanna and rw:

7 Things You didn't know about me:

1. I practice conversations I may never have in the bathroom. At times I practice my reactions to life situations in the mirror, like if someone knocked on my door and told me I won a million dollars.

2. I love reading books outside, in the cold air with a blanket wrapped around me in my chair. I am usually freezing but it makes the reading experience even better for me.

3. I could eat fried pickles from Western Sky all day long!

4. I dream almost every night and I have the strangest dreams on a consistent basis compared to anyone else I know. Lately I have had a lot of dreams about killing bad guys. I am a warrior in these dreams, carrying bazookas, throwing knives and all sorts of stuff. But the people I have to kill are evil people and I am protecting myself or someone. There is never any blood.

5. I have to get a little dose of the metroplex once in a while. Going to stores that we do not have in San Angelo and restaurants as well. It makes me feel fancy.

6. My feet are the gage for everything. For instance if I feel gross like I need to be cleaner, I wash my feet and I feel like a new woman. If I am cold, I cover my feet and I feel better. If I am hot at night, I stick a foot out of the covers and I cool off.

7. I love being pregnant and benefits that come with it.

Baby Appointment

2007-10-19T09:45:00.000-05:00

Ok, Ok, I am sorry it has taken me so long to post this. I am still getting used to this blogging world :)

Our baby appointment went really well. I was definitely tired after all the poking and stuff but it was worth it. This was the longest Dr. appointment in my life! I filled out all the paper work, handed it into the nurse and waited...
It was good having L there to get my mind off all they were going to do. He was really silly singing songs and joking with me. Then after an hour of sitting on "the chair" with L by my side, the doctor came in. He was a very nice, professional Dr. L and I both liked him a lot. He was in and out in no time and said, "you are definitely pregnant" and then set us up with a sonogram time.

We ate lunch at Pizza Hut and as we were there it was just more and more real to me what was taking place. I think I teared up about 2 times at lunch and my husband just put his arm around me and told me he was so happy about our life we have.

Headed back to the hospital for the sonogram. Now this was the neat part. The nurse showed us this little baby inside of me. As we looked at the screen you could see a little flashing light like a lightning bug going on and off. THAT was the heartbeat. It's amazing. I was just mesmerized while I know L was looking for two babies. So I asked the nurse, "Can you only see one in there?" She said "Well, that's all I can see for now but it is very early and i am glad we have such a good picture of this". Either way we were happy. We were just in la la land for the day. What a wonderful day it was, despite the uncomfortable parts. God is so good. We have been blessed and there is so much that is to come!

Tomorrow

2007-10-16T15:06:00.000-05:00

Well, tomorrow is the day we find out the due date, our first baby appointment! I'm not sure what all they are going to do but I do know that they have to stick me with a needle and draw some blood. Ugghhh..I'm not looking forward to that or some other routine things they do.

But I am looking forward to knowing when we will have the baby (or babies) and if there is more that one in there (which is Lennon's hope). Pray that all goes well and that I don't faint when I'm taking the blood test. I will be sure to post how it all goes :)

My family is coming

2007-10-12T09:54:00.000-05:00

Yeah! My mom dad and little brother Jonathan are coming to see us this weekend! I am just so excited I had to write something. Look at how beautiful my family is:

Surprise Package

2007-10-10T08:46:00.000-05:00

We just moved in our new house two weeks ago. (I will post pics of the progress later being that I don't know where I packed my camera) We have this little mail box attached to one of the posts on the front porch. I keep forgetting to check the mail there but yesterday I could see a white envelope sticking out and got excited to check it. I saw the word baby on it and immediately opened the package. There was the cutest creamy, yellow baby onesie! It had a little alligator and bird on it saying "See you later alligator" The gift was from seph. It hit me that I am going to be holding a baby that will fit into this soft little cloth. I got all teary eyed (which I am doing a lot lately) and showed L the little present. You couldn't wipe the smile off my face for nothing. Funny what baby clothes can do to you. Thanks seph! That gift meant so much to me! (It also inspired me to buy a soft blanket to go with it)

Cold, Wet Rag

2007-10-09T09:48:00.000-05:00

Sunday night I woke up in the middle of the night with horrible nausea and stuff. It was not a pleasant event. But what got me (as I was right out of sleep and a little dazed) I asked my hubby to please go get me a cold wet rag! I think I was remembering when I was sick as a kid, my mom would always put a cold wet rag on our foreheads when we got sick. It was just what I needed. As he placed the washcloth on my forehead I was instantly comforted. Just the feeling of it made me feel much better. That's what moms are for.

Bun In The Oven???

2007-10-05T11:18:00.000-05:00

You may ask yourself, what does this title imply?

Well.....

As some of you may have already heard through the grapevine, WE ARE PREGNANT!!!!

Yep... I think I have taken about 4 tests now (I couldn't hardly believe it the first 3 times I took the tests) and they have all turned up positive. So, to all of you who have been through pregnancy before, HELP!

We are excited and a little in awe. I feel pregnant at times and then just feel a little fat. Any advice you may have, I will take it.

Yesterday Lennon was so proud of a stepladder he bought me. He said it "this was the sturdiest one" and then demonstrated it for me. I guess he wanted to buy one because he freaked out when I stood in one of our dining chairs to fix the ceiling fan. He's a good husband.

Such big news to put on a blog but I am too excited to contain.

Happy Anniversary Baby!

2007-10-05T09:01:00.000-05:00

October 5th, 2006 was one of the best days of my life. Everything was so perfect as I walked down the isle to meet my groom. Lennon is one of the most wonderful, Godly men I have ever known. I've never been with anyone who has treated me truly as Christ would. This past year has been the greatest year of my life. Full of new adventures: Moving to a new town, becoming a pastor's wife, new job, new friends, and now a new house! There have been a lot of changes, some harder that others but I wouldn't trade it for the world or would I want to go through it all with any other person. To me it seems that it took us a while to find each other but I would rather wait a lifetime to be with him that be with the wrong person for a lifetime. No we are not perfect and we haven't got it all right yet but God is continually working on us to be more like Him. I am looking forward to all the future adventures we will face together. Below is a little slideshow to remember the day!

Our Wedding

2007-10-05T08:56:00.000-05:00

The Beginning

2007-10-03T15:14:00.001-05:00

So here it goes.....I finally set up my blog and it is still in the beginning stages so please bear with me as I learn how to do this thing we call "blogging". I pledge to do my best to write blogs as often as I have a thought that is worth sharing. There may be times where I share something so random that I would not blame anyone for responding. Therefore, I will give it my best to share little things about myself that are worth knowing. I will open up to the world of blogging not just for my benefit of knowing you but maybe for yours as well. What I do find great about this whole thing is the way some of you already have connected to each other and to God.

I just like this picture.