The Lord is My Strength

pure fun

2010-12-14T21:05:00.004-05:00

Yep, this is the kind of fun you should expect with a 3 year old boy and 1 year old girl- I love every day God gives me with them.

I know, I know

2010-12-13T20:54:00.006-05:00

Yes, it has been over a year since my last post. Life happened and I find myself missing the blogging world. So, I'm back. Too much to catch up on so I am giving you an updated family picture and 5 of my favorite things that have happened- enjoy!

1) Jeremy and I have been living in Boone, NC almost three years now working with students at Appalachian State and Lees McRae through InterVarstiy Christian Fellowship. It is pretty much awesome.

2) I am still a consultant with Mary Kay, loving the skin care products more and more (especially in the dry winters) and having fun pampering women with the great products.

3) November 25th of last year I gave birth to our daughter, Moriah Conklin, with the help of my amazing husband and incredible Midwife, Carrington. I will ALWAYS use a midwife now for any future children we may have. (no, I am NOT pregnant)

4) I learned how to use a sewing machine last year with the help of some App students. I've made coasters, napkins, and even a dress that I've worn twice- this is a miracle considering my abilities. Looking forward to more projects!

5) God has been teaching me more and more that I NEED HIM and HIM alone- I cannot rely on man or on circumstances or on routine, I must rely on HIM and that is GREAT news ;)

P.S. Want some AMAZING family photos like ours??? Check out SR Photography . . . . I cannot say enough GREAT things about them!!!

Boone in February

2009-02-02T14:17:00.003-05:00

I love Boone. I love Boone in February. Here is a fun shot that my sister Lisa took of Joshua in the backyard. Little man loves to be outside and it can be quite chilly in the mountains. We get nice days like this when the sun is out and bright and the air is not to chilly for some play time outside. God is good.

Lack of Sleep

2009-01-30T15:44:00.002-05:00

Sleep deprivation is torture. Seriously. It is a technique used to torture prisoners- keep someone awake long enough and they will start to fall apart. Many of you moms and dads out there can testify to this. Having a newborn or a sick child can make nights seem torturous and begin to make you a little nutty and if you are at home with your children and not sleeping- this can make you over-react to anything and everything. I can remember short times of feeling hopeless when Joshua was a newborn. It took me a while to learn how to nap when he napped. Not a fun lesson to learn the hard way.

It's been a few tough weeks here in the Greenberg home. Joshua is just getting over RSV and an ear infection. He has two new teeth cutting in, and we've moved him out of the crib. Enough to make any baby wake up a lot at night. Now that I have perspective as a mom, I know, this too shall pass. I might be a little cranky, a lot tired, and the house may be a wreck for a little longer than I'd like, but I will survive. Waking up 2-4 times a night for 2 weeks has not been great for my attitude- but reminding myself of the truth of the gospel always gives me peace. So, for those of you out there having a rough week- thanking God for the weekend, and wondering if you will survive next week, I leave you with some of the lyricks to a song that encourages me with truth.

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found;
He is my light, my strenght, my song;
This cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depts of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all-
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

No guilt in life, no fear in death-
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry, to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Til He returns or calls me home-
Here in the Power of Christ I Stand.

"Tracy. Come back to the blogosphere!"

2009-01-15T11:54:00.003-05:00

Thanks Amy! I needed that- ummmmm it has been over 2 months since I posted. Never thought that would happen. I took a much needed "break" from blogging that somehow turned into a long season away- from blogging and reading blogs. Wow, I have A LOT to catch up on.

So, as our fireplace runs, the snow falls down in the yard, Joshua sleeps on the couch, my eyes adjust to new contacts, and my body craves another cup of coffee . . . let me rejoin my blogging friends and hopefully make a few people smile.

Here is the Joshua. 16 months old. Five full days of driving to Florida and back. Isn't he a ham?

SNOW!

2008-11-19T12:11:00.001-05:00

We got enough snow yesterday to take Joshua sledding in the backyard. He had a blast and it was fun for us to watch him look curiously at the "white stuff" all over. Now, for your help- the thing you ride down hills on the snow in- is it a sled or a toboggan???

So far in November . . .

2008-11-13T20:51:00.005-05:00

It has been a great month of seeing friends from VA! Our highlight was getting to go on a double date with the Mingee's while Joshua and Aiden were watched by Aiden's grandparents. It was SO NICE to catch up with Jeff and Lauren- God has blessed us so much with their friendship.

The proud moms!

Our Men- the big ones and the little ones

April came for a visit and took lots of walks with Joshua

Joshua at his first baby shower- Yay for Baby Kang- coming January 2009

Feeding ducks in the Chappell's backyard

October

2008-11-12T15:12:00.006-05:00

Although I was sick for most of October, it was a busy month for our little man . . . here is what he was up to while mom was down for the count:

Joshua became a big fan of taking naps in the car- check out his cool (and fake) brown leather jacket with motorcycle patch and all!

Picking out pumpkins at the local Pumpkin Patch was fun and a bit chilly :)

There were so many to pick from, he could not decide

He also started climbing the cart in his room . . .

. . . and would bring mom whatever he found :)

Again, naps in the car became a fun routine.

He also enjoyed trying on all of mom and dad's toboggans (the hat, not the sled)

Laughter IS the best medicine . . .

2008-11-11T20:47:00.004-05:00

Here is a 1 1/2 minute clip of Joshua laughing and playing in his crib. He seems to be amused with a small plastic medicine dropper stopper. Seriously, it is the little things that make him happy. Hope you all get a smile out of this!

TAG

2008-10-23T21:22:00.007-04:00

My first official TAG!!!!

Thanks Lauren! I loved reading yours- but I do admit similar feelings: do I have any truely interesting or earth-shattering facts to share about myself? I may have to enlist my hubby as well! (BTW, Lauren, Iron Man was the last movie I watched as well :) )

Seven Random/Weird facts about myself:

1) My first real job was the summer after my junior year of high school. I worked in the Press Room for the Greensboro News and Record Newspaper. I went in at 11pm and was off by 4am. This was apealing because 3 of my high school buddies also worked there. During the summer we would hang out at night until we went in to work at 11. Then we would crash after 4am and wake up at 1 or 2 in the afternoon the next day. I shuffled sales papers and inserts into a big machine that would feed them into each individual paper. Not bad for a summer job.

2) I gave birth to my baby boy with no drugs. I'm not bragging, don't get me wrong. I watched a video of a woman getting an epidural and it sealed my decision to try for "natural." The question I get most often is "did it hurt?". Ummmm. . . YES!

3) My sister threw me a surprise birthday party for my Sweet Sixteen. She was only 13 at the time, calling all my "cool" friends to spread the word. I had no idea and burst into tears when I walked into my house. I got her back real good- A surprise 21st birthday a month before the actual birthday (She was going to be in Italy). So, we are even . . . for now :)

4) I am married to the IV Staff worker of App State. This is where I went to college and became a believer through IV. It all comes around full circle.

5) I have hair that grows on the palm side of my index finger. A great fact I always use when playing 2 truths and a lie. I had surgery when I was 5 on my finger and they used a skin graph from my leg. Now my finger gets tan in the summer on the palm side and it has a little peach fuzz. Just about the size of a quarter.

6) I'm a sucker for Jane Austin books and movies about them. A&E Pride and Predjudice is my all time favorite (only slightly behind the Godfather over all!) I made Jeremy watch it when we were dating. He actually enjoyed it more than I thought!

7) I have a horrible bad habit- picking my lip. It is gross and I wish I had never started. Jeremy has been working hard to get me to stop. It is fairly embarassing and so it might help me stop by confessing on here

Okay- I tag: Robyn, Kenan, and Andy!

Sick, Sick, Sick

2008-10-22T17:04:00.004-04:00

Here are my two favorite men! And here is where I have been the past several weeks:

I have been downright SICK going on about the third week now. The past two nights are the first in a LONG time that I have not woken myself up by hacking up my lungs. What must have started as a 24 hour virus to one doctor, ended up as a nasty sinus infection to another doctor.

I have never had a sinus infection before, and trust me, I don't ever want to experience that mess again. Joshua was sick the first week with me. Although being sick for him meant yummy pink medicine. Being sick for me meant a constant tickle in the throat, sore eyes and stomach from coughing, a terrible attitude towards life in general, and an "almost" trip to the ER with Joshua agian. Let me explain.

Joshua can be clever in ways that I am now considering dangerous. A few weeks ago he was playing with a bottle of Tylenol (it's just like a fun rattle to him) when all of the sudden the "rattling" stopped. I looked down of the floor to see him swimming in a sea of red and blue gel caps. Yep, somehow the "child proof" top had come off. But, as clever as he is, I thought this was a fluke. Skip ahead a few days. Joshua is now playing with a bottle of Excedrin Migraine. I am watching, so it seems safe. But, all moms know, it takes one thing to catch our attention for a few moments and . . . Joshua is throwing my migraine meds up in the air. Not good. Luckily, it was a new bottle that I had only taken 2 pills from, so I gathered the pills off the floor and quickly counted to make sure he had not ingested any. Lesson learned? Oh, you would think so.

Fast forward to last week. (In my defense, remember, I have been sick for some time now) One of my favorite A.S.U. students, Liz, has come by to do some grocery shopping for me. Joshua is fussy and trying to grab at my prescription cough medicine. I put him down and say "watch this" as I had the deadly bottle over. "Joshua can open child proof bottles. He has done it twice already." As I continue this conversation about Joshua and his super baby abilities my little man goes to town. Liz and I are carrying on our conversation and I glance down as Joshua runs to my side holding my deadly cough medicne bottle upside down- oh yes- and the top is off. There is sticky, yellow, highly dangerous medicine on his hands, shirt, pants- I look down, there is a small puddle on the carpet. Oh, geeze. I realize there is no way to win the best mommie award this year.

I am much calmer than our last catastrophe. I run him to the bathroom to rinse him off while Liz looks for my Poison Control magnet on the fridge. It is not there- of course not- Joshua has removed it and it is likely in the bottom of his toy box or in one of Jeremy's shoes (his two favorie places to stick things). Liz stays with me so I don't loose my mind and I find the phone number I need on the internet. I had a lovely conversation with Tonya, my new contact person from Poison Control. No smell of the meds on Joshua's breath, no indication that it was in his mouth. I just need to watch him and check back with Tonya in 2 hours, then again in 3.

Yep, never a dull moment in the Greenberg home- especially with a sickly mom and super clever baby Joshua. I am now heeding the advice of my poison control friend and purchacing a tackle box and pad lock from Wal-Mart. Apparently, I am not the only mom who has this problem (but let's be honest- Joshua is barely 14 months old, a bit young to master the child proof tops). So, I am sharing this as a testimony that God continues to be good to me and protect my baby boy as he continues to become more curious and adventurous. I am also sharing because I cannot be ashamed of my mistakes as a mom and I am growing in this part of my life. If I were a perfect mom then I would not need Christ and the thought that I don't need Christ is a big fat lie. I need Christ.

Fall in Boone, NC

2008-10-17T14:10:00.004-04:00

Jeremy, Joshua, and I got to drive on the parkway the other day- it was so beautiful. I missed the peak of the leaves because I have been sick for over a week- but I can't complain at the view I got! I LOVE BOONE!

Joshua had fun at Price Park playing in the leaves

He also got to spend some time in the trees- our little monkey :)

Football . . .

2008-10-01T16:39:00.003-04:00

Jeremy and I went to the first App State home game a few weeks back- along with 30,000 other screaming students, alumni, fans, and locals. It was INSANE. I think I went to 4 football games in total while I was a student- things sure have changed in 8 years. The students now can't believe that football was ever any different than it is now. With the mountaineers being back to back to back champions- it seems like the team was always incredible. Homecoming is this weekend and I may end up just staying home with the Joshua. I don't know if I could handle another game- don't get me wrong- I LOVED going and watching the guys rip into the other team- but I was so tired from just a few hours on my feet! I am getting old. Besides, there are lots of Alumni coming in for the weekend and I'm sure I am going to have fun just catching up with old friends- which is more important to me anyway :) GO APP STATE!!!

Must have something sweet . . . .

2008-09-29T20:07:00.003-04:00

So, I'm not sure if it is fair to blame Joshua or not, but ever since the third trimester of my pregnancy- I have had the WORST sweet tooth ever. Don't hear me wrong- before Joshua I would love to eat up a bowl, or two, of ice cream- grab a candy bar in the line at the grocery store- pick all of the M&M's out of my homemade Gorp. Things are much different now- Jeremy can testify. I feel the NEED to have dessert all the time. Now, I know I don't NEED it- but the desire and craving goes beyond my belly to the deepest parts of my soul. Seriously, just ask Jeremy. There is a pumpkin pie sitting on my stove cooling and it is all the self control I have in me to wait the recommended 2 hours of cooling before I eat it. I can taste it right now- with whiped cream on top!!! Mmmmmm . . . . Is there a cure for this addiction? Is there hope for my poor teeth? Will I ever find a "healthy" dessert to indulge in with no guilt? In honor of my cravings- I give you my top 3 lists tonight of favorite sweets :) Don't forget to let me know some of your favorites!!!

Candy Bars

Snickers
Nestle Crunch
Kit-Kat

Ice-Cream

Coffee
Mosse Tracks
anything with caramel

Pies

Pumpkin
Pecan
Chocolate

Best Overall

Tiramasu
Tiramasu
Tiramasu

P.S. I will wait the full 2 hours to eat the pumpkin pie- I have half an hour to go, and Jeremy will be home soon to join me :)

The Joshua on "Jack Johnson"

2008-09-26T14:02:00.003-04:00

The Glue Head Shot

2008-09-26T13:59:00.002-04:00

Movie Trivia

2008-09-16T19:53:00.001-04:00

Can you guess what movie this quote is from?

"You ought to be stuffed with nails, you ought!"

I'm watching it right now on DVD!

Trip to the ER

2008-09-08T20:35:00.002-04:00

Well, Joshua had quite an eventful morning. Around 9:45 he dove off the couch (while sitting next to me) hit his head on the corner of our coffee table, and landed on his belly. This is where I think the worst and go into panic mode. I picked him up and watched as blood poured out of his head- holding him tightly and both of us in tears, I grabbed my phone out of my back pocket to call 911 and rushed to the kitchen to put a washcloth on his head to stop the bleeding.

I am still in panic mode, rushing out the back door as I tremble on the phone giving my address and Joshua's current condition: crying, bleeding profusely, not letting me hold anything to stop the bleeding. I collapse on the gravel driveway and lean against our car. Joshua stops crying. The 911 dispatcher asks if he has lost conciousness. "no" I say, "he just stopped and is trying to play with the rocks in our driveway" (his favorite place to play). I continue to cry, even though Joshua has stopped. I continue to answer questions on the phone and my body continues to tremble. The ambulance is on the way. I call Jeremy and quickly tell him what has happened and before I get off the phone he is on his way to meet us at the hospital. I rush down to our neighbors, knowing the husband is a trained EMT. No one is home. Minutes pass and I call 911 again to make sure I told them the correct address- I am still in panic mode. Yes, they are on their way.

My neighbor pulls up, sees me covered in blood and Joshua looking like he is ready for Halloween. He looks him over- askes some questions, reasures me that Joshua will be okay- all his signs look good- stiches may be needed. I rush inside to grab his diaper bag thinking- I might need to change him at the hospital. I walk back outside, the ambulance is here.

The two men help me and Joshua into the back, they ask me questions, I have finally stopped crying. I am still shaking. Joshua is smiling "ball?" he says over and over again. He wanted to play with his ball. They check a few vitals and we are off to the hospital. I realize I have stopped shaking and crying. I look down, covered in blood, I start to cry again thinking of what a terrible mom I am. "Everything is going to be fine", the EMT tells me, "Joshua is in great shape- we'll just clean him up for you." He began cleaning Joshua's face and arms and Joshua starts to look more and more normal- except the cut above his eye.

I ride off of the ambulance on the gurnie with Joshua clinging tightly to me. We go to our room, Jeremy joins us within the minute. Joshua goes to his Dad, still smiling and wanting to play "ball?" he says. As the nurses and doctor come in the prognosis is good: small cut, deep, but not dangerous. Stitches or glue? Glue? Yes, glue- easier on the little ones. Yes, glue. As the doctor super-glues Joshua's head- he screams at the top of his lungs. Not from the pain, but because we have swaddled him in a sheet and are holding him down. He hates this. Jeremy askes questions, I continue to hold onto Joshua as tight as I can. We sign some papers, and head out the door. Joshua is fine, mom is recovering, Dad to the rescue!

What a morning we had. What a funny blue mark the glue has made on his head. What a rude welcoming to parenthood and childhood. I've had enough to last me a few years. All the while in my mind today "The Lord is my strenght." Thank you, Lord, for being my strength today.

Fun things for mom!

2008-09-03T20:42:00.004-04:00

I am loving all of these blessings God has given me here:

A great home church: Crosspointe Community Church

A women's discipelship group on Friday mornings - we are going through "Gospel Transformation"

MOP's- a group for Mom's with Preschooler's that meets twice a month for fellowship, community, and they watch the little ones for us!

Reading Tuesdays! Reading day every day at the library- but Tuesday's are our favorite storyteller!

Molly and Fiona- a mother and daughter (4 months old) I have befriended and spend lots of fun time with

Games with my hubby! Since cable does not exist in our house, we have been enjoying lots of time playing games on the couch at night. Phase 10 and Monopoly have been our regular ones!

Tiramisu . . .

2008-09-02T20:20:00.003-04:00

. . . how I love thee

Monkey Business

2008-09-01T19:57:00.004-04:00

Joshua's party for his 1st birthday was this past weekend. Thanks to all of our family who traveled so far to be here with us! We had a great time with friends, family, and beautiful Boone weather. Monkey's were the theme- and all the kids (and adults) had fun monkeying around :)

Joshua and Aunt Lisa waiting for the guests to arrive!

Joshua getting kisses from his cousin Daniel

Enjoying the cookout with the ladies!

Joshua attempting to open a present- or is he looking for an escape route?

A fun time in the front yard

Banana Pudding- it did say "Joshua's 1st" but it melted!

Monkey Cup-cakes!

Dad making Joshua laugh

Joshua's first mohawk!

A few updates . . .

2008-08-28T08:26:00.002-04:00

While I'm in the habit of blogging again- let me fill you in on some family updates:

JOSHUA: Well, as you can imaging, our little man is walking. He has been taking steps for about a month or so, but a few weeks ago he took off- literally. We think he has forgotten how to crawl. It has been fun to watch him "refine" his walking abilities. Of course, this means Jeremy and I have to chase after him more! Joshua also has 7 teeth- and loves mac and cheese, cottage cheese, wheat bread, and just about anything he tries.

JEREMY: The school year has started at App State and Jeremy is in the full swing of things with the InterVarsity students. He has lead 2 retreats already and the chapter will have its first Large Group Meeting tonight. Joshua and I got to join the leaders and freshman at the New Student Dessert Social that IV hosted 2 nights ago. Jeremy is adjusting to the college life schedule again. He had a meeting last night from 9-11pm! That won't be a regular meeting time- whew! Jeremy has also been spending time with the pastor at our new church and the church has given Jeremy an office! This has been a huge blessing for us and the IV ministry. I got to pick out the color and we have painted it and moved in all the office items from our house!

TRACY: I have been flooded with memories of college as I have walked the campus and the downtown area the past two months. I LOVE BOONE! I have reconnected with old friends, and met lots of new ones too. I go walking with another mom (she has a 4 month old) at the Greenway and it gets me out of the house and Joshua gets fresh air. I start a MOP's group next week and this will be a great place for me to meet more mom's and get time to be refreshed by Godly women. I have also enjoyed our new church and Joshua has lots of ready and willing baby-sitters. I start a women's discipleship group next week with some of the women there and I look forward to knowing them better. I'm still taking naps during the day while Joshua continues teething. Yay for naps.

Happy Birthday Joshua

2008-08-27T20:13:00.002-04:00

My little man turned 1 today. Jeremy and I can hardly believe we are the parents of a 1 year old. It has gone so fast, and so much has happened. We are so thankful to God for the work he has done in our family. We are having a party this weekend to celebrate- so look forward to some fun pictures!

Until then- for the 12 months we have had our little man, here are 12 things I love about him (in no particular order)

1) I love that he gives me tight hugs around my neck now- oh yeah- and he gives them to other people too!

2) I love that his eyes seem to be getting deeper and deeper blue- they are gorgeous!

3) I love how he waves 'bye-bye' to Jeremy when he leaves for his office in the morning. He sometimes walks to the glass door and waves and waves until Jeremy is out of sight.

4) I love that I still get to steal a nap with him every now and then on the couch.

5) I love how he has started throwing toys up in the air while screaming (not so sure the neighbors love that!)

6) I love taking him to the library on Tuesdays for story time and watching him interact with the other little ones.

7) I love that he has started trying to climb into everything: boxes, bags, even my purse!

8) I love how he figured out how to drop cheerios through a hole in his booster chair. I thought he was really hungry one day- ends up the carpet was hungry and Joshua was entertained!

9) I love giving him lots of kisses because soon he will be too embarrassed for it!

10) I love that he picks up his toy cell phone and puts it to his neck and says "hi"

11) I love that he babbles and babbles all day long, sometimes forming words, but mostly babble- and he looks like he knows what he is talking about!

12) I love when I come home from running errands, or a meeting, he smiles and lights up when I walk in the room and says "ma ma".

Family shot, new website, the PART, and a question

2008-07-18T11:24:00.005-04:00

Here is our family shot in our new backyard in Boone. Jeremy's mom took it the week we moved here. Isn't Joshua getting so big!

Jeremy has been working on the new ASU IV website- he even has a link for alumni now to stay in touch. A few weekends ago, we got to attend a ASU IV reunion with the classes of 1976-1983. It was so amazing to listen to their stories about the IV Chapter almost 30 years ago. We felt so privileged to be there, and we want to make that happen for all the classes in the coming years.

Alright all my piedmont triad locals. Have you read up on the PART yet? Lisa took it to Boone last weekend to see us and go to the Highland Games. It was a great visit and I could not believe how cheap it was for her to take the PART bus here- all of those who are going green- this is a great way to travel.

So, here is my question. I'm thinking of planting some herbs for the kitchen (I don't have a green thumb- it's more like killer red). What is a good way to plant things like mint and basil in a way that I can take them with me when we move again? What supplies do I need? What advice do you have? I tried researching on-line and I'm thinking it would just be better to ask ya'll!

Some recent pics

2008-07-17T10:18:00.003-04:00

Joshua enjoying breakfast at the new house

Aunt Lisa and Joshua have a serious talk while we visit her in her new house

Taking a stroll on the Greenway in Boone

Joshua watching the July 4th parade from Dad's shoulders- he is sad because it is almost over!

A few of Joshua's favorite things . . .

2008-07-13T19:04:00.003-04:00

1) Saying "uh-oh". All the time. It is so cute. He learned about a week ago to drop his cup from the highchair and say "uh-oh." Now he says it for everything, all day long. Right now it is still cute- but we are trying to get him more vocab.

2) Taking steps! Joshua can take a few steps on his own now- he is on the move. The first day- he did it three times- three sets of two steps. It is going to be fun when he takes off. Pray for us!

3) Mimicking Dad. Jeremy has him poking at my belly button, patting my leg (as I type this), just about anything Jeremy does- Joshua tries to follow.

4) Singing to Jeremy's toes. He likes to grab his dad's toes when they are available. He grabs Jeremy's big toe, closes his eyes, shakes his head back and forth, and hums.

5) Pushing his music table across the floor. And, for that matter, anything else he can push around the house (hampers, books, plastic containers, anything slick enough to move).

6) Playing in the water. As you see above, he likes to sneak into the bathroom and play in the little bits of water left from our showers.

He has been so much fun for us these past few weeks in Boone- quite the entertainer and a good thing since we don't have cable!

Boone Fun Fact #3 and #4

2008-07-10T21:52:00.002-04:00

#1 If you want to drive in Boone, better visit Mutton Crossing first! That's right. The DMV is in a little subdivision called Mutton Crossing. We just had to take a picture and share. I am legally a NC driver now- I was actually still in their system as Tracy Ennis- they just needed to see my marriage license. Jeremy didn't get off so easily. He will be returning soon to take the 20 minute driver's test. Since there are only two men working the site, yep that's all the town of Boone needs, Jeremy will get in early and ace it one day soon . . . we have arrived!

#2 The Greenway trail is just a few miles away- and full of fun activities! Want to go for a stroll, ride a bike, or go skate boarding? The Greenway Trail is waiting. There are several phases of it now (bigger than when I was in school). We live right close to this one in the picture below. A beautiful spot to take Joshua riding- and soon walking! The Greenway Trail also passes by the "Tot Lot", the indoor swim complex, and the outdoor skate board park. Lots of fun to be had in the summer here!

See- on the right in the middle- Driver's License Office- in Mutton Crossing!

Jeremy, Joshua, and Tracy in front of the Greenway entrance a few miles from the house!

Contemplating my twenties . . .

2008-07-03T19:57:00.005-04:00

Yes, it is true. I must confess. I become a thirty year old woman tomorrow. How did this happen? Well, honestly, God has kept me here long enough to make it through another decade.

For some reason, turning thirty has not been as painful as I thought- regardless of my husbands joking "you will only be thirty-minus one for a few more days" and all the shocked looks on people's faces here in Boone as I reveal my new age. I might actually be looking forward to thirty. (Did I really type that?)

The twenties were a blast. So much happens in 10 years! I had a great experience in college- God drew me to Him for the first time there and has done amazing things in me. I spent three years on InterVarsity Staff in VA and grew as I lived on my own for the first time. I was introduced to the T.U.L.I.P. and reformed theology by Pastor Bob Becker. (I had friends that always called me a "closet Calvinist") This rocked my world.

I cut my hair short a few times, but didn't get any crazy piercings or tattoo's (Have I lost my chance- are you able to do those things after thirty?!) I got the coolest opportunity to live with my sister again in Raleigh, NC- a very happening place. It was there I finally used my Recreation Degree for the first time and helped start a camp for children with autism.

The biggest life changes have been these past three years. I moved to Virginia to help start a church and to be closer to the man that I would soon after marry. My husband, Jeremy- "he is sooooo dreamy." Then we had the great honor of having our first son Joshua almost a year ago. There are no words to describe the great joy that Christ has given us in the entire birthing experience.

So, what lies ahead of me in my thirties? I do know God has a plan- better than any plan I could imagine. So, I will enter into this new decade excited and in anticipation of what is to come. Praise God for turning thirty!

Oh yeah, tomorrow my hubby wants me to contemplate what it is like to be thirty- we'll see if anything changes overnight!!!

Boone Fun Fact #2

2008-07-02T11:54:00.002-04:00

Your back yard can now be a zoo! That's right. Every evening we have spotted bunnies in the back yard through Jeremy's office widow. I think I have counted up to 8 so far. We also got to see a deer from the bedroom window yesterday. I was about 10 feet from the house, but the neighbor's dog scared it away. There have also been a few ground hog sitings, and a few furry creatures that I am not sure what to label. Plus, our front yard has a great view of the blue ridge mountains, ahhhh . . . so nice.

Things I DO miss about VA part III

2008-07-02T07:37:00.003-04:00

Joshua and Kristen exercising on Girl's night!

Wednesday night- Girl's Night! This started a few months after Joshua was born. My good friend Kristen started coming over to cook dinner for me on Wednesday nights. Wednesday's were always hard for me because Jeremy was on the ODU campus all day working for InterVarsity and he would not get home until 9:30 or 10pm. This was such a huge blessing for me. We also started reading a book together, Knowing God. It was a great encouragement to us both! (We need to finish it!) As with most good things, our evenings continued to grow- I mean multiply! We had tons of other women join us: April, Jenn, Holly, Nicolette, Tiffany, Catherine, did I miss anyone? We would call each other weekly to plan the meal and each of us with contribute and what a feast we would have each week. The nights included winding down from work, play time with Joshua, exercising with Joshua, bathing Joshua, encouraging conversations in the kitchen over food, and yes, watching America's Next Top Model. Ask me why if you are curious!

Boone Fun Fact # 1

2008-06-30T11:45:00.002-04:00

The beansTalk is back! Those of you familiar with the downtown Boone area 8 years ago will remember the lovely hole in the wall coffee shop, the beansTalk (pronounced "bean stalk" by the locals). In 2000 when I graduated from A.S.U., the shop had been shut down and several small stores had tried to flourish in it's spot. Saturday night, Jeremy and I went to meet some of the A.S.U. IV leaders for coffee at the beansTalk and I was so excited to hear that it was re-opened. We had a nice chat with the new owner who use to be a regular customer back in the day. He now runs the little coffee shop and has reinstated some of the old traditions. For all us locals, we can bring in our own personal coffee mug that hangs in the shop for us to use at any time! Lovely.

Things I DO miss about VA part II

2008-06-30T11:39:00.003-04:00

The Asian Grill and the Lion's Bridge. Two spots that I can only find in Newport News. If you are in town, stop by the Asian Grill for lunch- I promise you won't regret it. The Lion's Bridge is a part of the Noland Trail AND it is where Jeremy proposed to me on Friday the 13th of January 2006. If you have not heard the story and how I hit him in the arm several times, just ask. The Lion's Bridge is also a great place for a picnic- or a family photo shoot! We had pictures taken there by the water when Joshua was only 2 1/2 months old.

oppps

2008-06-27T12:30:00.001-04:00

So- as many of you know we have moved to Boone, NC as of Monday. Please forgive me as I do not know what day it is and what end is up and such. I will be breaking shortly from the BLOG and will return when we are more settled in! Look forward to things we will miss from VA, and fun facts about Boone!

Things I will miss about VA Part 1

2008-06-19T21:52:00.002-04:00

The Mingee's!!! Joshua will miss play time with Aiden- his good friend that he has known since he was born. Nine months is a long time in baby months. I will miss all the great times I spent with Lauren, the walks around the mall, the phone calls for help, and the Godly advice she passes my way. Jeremy will miss his weekly lunches with Jeff and all the "dad" time they have to share. What a blessing it has been for the Greenberg's to have the Mingee's to spend time with. We won't be too far away, so we know God will continue to be at work in our friendship.

2 Years!

2008-06-10T05:57:00.004-04:00

2 wonderful years of marriage

1 beautiful baby boy
The meaning of Joshua's name says it all "The Lord is my Salvation"
Happy Anniversary Jeremy! I love you!

2 Weeks

2008-06-09T14:43:00.004-04:00

We move to Boone, NC in just two weeks. My mind races every day about what to do and how to pack- but mostly how to keep Joshua from getting into trouble. Our apartment is now a playground of excitement for him. Lots of boxes, paper, stacks of things to climb. We to pack everything up and drive our way to the mountains very soon. Any good packing tips out there?

Happy Birthday Aiden!

2008-06-01T07:53:00.005-04:00

Today is Aiden Mingee's Birthday- he is 1 today and Joshua's good friend! Happy Birthday Aiden- what a gift you are from God to everyone who knows you! This is a picture of Joshua and Aiden playing in Aiden's new water table last night at his birthday party. Everyone had so much fun! Jeff and Lauren are the proud parents of this adorable red head and our very good friends.

Aquarium!

2008-05-29T08:11:00.005-04:00

A few weekends ago the women of By Grace Community Church headed to the Virginia Beach Aquarium for the afternoon. I had such a great time with the ladies and little Joshua (the only boy allowed!) I love having girl time and God was so good to provide it when I really needed it- Jeremy had been out of town almost 2 weeks for InterVarsity's Rockbridge summer camp. Here are a few of my favorite shots taken by Liz!

Joshua getting an up close look at the big fish!

Taking shade under the blanket with Mom!

Crawling up the steps- a first for Joshua! He is all over the place!

Hanging out with Jennifer

Jeremy to the rescue!

2008-04-29T07:05:00.002-04:00

Joshua has been a handful lately- and a fun one at that. Now that he can stand, yep, he is constantly on the go, getting into things, squealing with delight, and keeping mom on her toes. Yes, when I say constantly, I mean it. He won't even sit still for a diaper change anymore. I have mastered the art of changing him while he stands. He cracks me up.

Jeremy rescued me the other night. My patience at the end of the day is a bit short, especially when trying to teach Joshua to pick up his food puffs to put in his mouth. I had all but given up and was popping them into his mouth (which resembled a worker feeding fish to a seal!). Jeremy stepped in, spent some good time in the kitchen with Joshua in his highchair, and had him feeding himself in under 15 minutes. Now, that was such a huge gift to me! I can't explain how much easier meal time is with the little one. Let's see what challenge lies ahead for us next . . . potty training???

What's New?

2008-04-22T05:52:00.003-04:00

Well, many things, but here are a few:

1. I went to the dentist yesterday. Apparently my teeth are great and my gums are terrible. I have to go back tomorrow and get a serious cleaning. Pray for me that I won't pass out from the pain- yes, I said pain from a cleaning. My gums are that bad.

2. My great friend Robyn is moving next door- literally! We lived together in Fredericksburg and she kept me sane. She moves this weekend to my apartment complex and I can't wait to hang out with her- and Joshua is excited about this too!

3. Joshua's favorite thing to do now is to stand up. He especially enjoys climbing on anyone or anything on the floor. His calf muscles are defined and it cracks me up to watch his face every time he gets up.

4. My Mary Kay business is so much more fun than I imagined. Yes, I said Mary Kay. I've been a consultant now for almost 3 months and I LOVE IT! I get to pamper women, minister to them, and give Jeremy and Joshua good bonding time while I'm out with the girls.

5. I'm almost finished Knowing God. This is the longest it has taken me to read a book in a long time. I love it and I may read it again. I know the Lord has more to teach me, and I'm thirsting for knowledge of him pretty hard core now.

6. We move to Boone, NC in just 2 months! We have a house to rent, friends to welcome us, students at A.S.U. that are excited about us coming, churches to visit, packing and unpacking to do, and a whole lot of outdoor adventure on the Parkway waiting for us!

Overwhelmed?

2008-04-02T07:25:00.003-04:00

Do you ever get overwhelmed with life? I mean- REALLY overwhelmed? Well, that seems to be a theme for myself lately. Completely overwhelmed. It is mostly emotional and Jeremy has to deal with it. Sorry!

Most of my friends know that I don't do well with change. By this I mean I really freak out at the "unknown". I like things comfortable and predictable. This kind of personality has lots of challenges in life- because life is not comfortable on the time, and rarely is it predictable.

Our family is packing up (literally we have already started filling the ABC boxes with all the many books we have) and moving this summer to Boone, NC where Jeremy will be the IV Staff Worker at Appalachian State University. This is where I went to college- so I am totally amazed and excited about where God has called us. It is the "leaving" part of this move that has me in an overwhelmed emotional uproar.

What will I do without my friends here? What about finding a good church? How in the world do I pack up a 3 person household? What are we going to do without a Starbucks within a 1 hour drive? Who will be our babysitter? Silly questions, I know. But- they are in my head swimming around!

Yet, God is faithful. He took care of me when I moved here to Virginia. He took care of me when I was in the midst of giving birth to Joshua. He has taken care of me my entire life and He will take care of me as I move my family to Boone.

Plus, He has given us a great gift in our son, Joshua. Just look how cute he is at his 6 month check-up. How do YOU see God taking care of you when you get overwhelmed?

Pictures of Holidays Past . . .

2008-03-22T07:55:00.005-04:00

Here are a few shots from December and January- More fun to come- it has been an eventful year!!!!!!!!

The cute New Year couple

Happy New Year! Having fun with Brandi at John and Nicolette's Party!

Reading to Joshua and Daniel in Edinburg

Joshua opening gifts in Fredericksburg- he loved the bags best

Where is Tracy? Where is Tracy?

2008-03-21T09:15:00.003-04:00

Here I am! After two months of no posts, I figure it is about time to get back to my regular blogging. Did you miss me? I have missed giving Joshua updates and thoughts of mine. So, I am back. Lots has happened since I last posted, so I'll do my best to add some "catch up" segments in the next few days. Enjoy! Here is a peek of what is to come . . .

No more napping for me! Feed me!

I love my baby

2008-01-18T18:32:00.001-05:00

Joshua decided to take a nap in our bed the other day. At least he set his alarm.

A few of my favorite things . . .

2008-01-14T09:09:00.000-05:00

1. My dreamy Husband- Here he is in all his glory! God has shown me so much in our marriage . . . and I still can't believe that Jeremy is my husband- given to me by God. He is such an incredible Dad- just check out how much fun he and Joshua have together!

2. A good sermon that makes me cry- not because of feeling sad or shamed or guilty, but because the Truth of the Gospel moves me to tears. I heard one last night at church. You can listen to it in a few days here. It will be under January 13th, 2008.

3. Joshua's new language- after 4 days of squealing non-stop with delight, he now spends most of the day babbling along all kinds of vowels, sound combos, and occasional squeals of delight. He has said "Hi" "Moma" and "Dad" as of this morning. He has no idea that he has said these yet, but Jeremy and I crack up at some of the stuff that is constantly coming out of him. Who knew he would be so verbal???

4. Orginization and Clutter Free Life- I spend time now and then checking out the FlyLady for tips and looking for new ideas from Real Simple. Getting rid of clutter and simplifying things always makes me feel better.

5. PoCoyAyo!- What does it mean? You'll have to read more to find out! My friend Robyn has an amazing blog page. I love reading her posts and her photography skills are amazing. Check her out- she's fabulous!

7. Friends that do the crazy things- My good friend Nicolette helped me go through my closet and get rid of all the things that don't fit and that I have not worn in a year- and, yes, the ones that I am embarrassed were in there. I was left with under 10 things. Honest. She became my personal Stacy London and took me on a shopping spree. We hit a few consignment stores and a few thrift stores, and with under $100 spent, I have a new updated wardrobe- including shoes!!!

Survivor!

2007-12-23T09:33:00.000-05:00

I'm at the Winner's Table!

Dad and Joshua are enjoying themselves too!

Before all of the Christmas Parties and traveling began, the three of us got to spend a wonderful night at the Mingee's for a Survivor Party. It was so much fun and such a needed break from the normal. I myself was a winner after choosing the sole survivor this season- so I enjoyed a steak, baked potato, salad, and the best sweet tea I've tasted in years! Jeremy enjoyed the spread of foods with the rest of the crowd and Joshua just enjoyed being held by new people. He loves new people!

Today I find myself with an empty suitcase, three loads of laundry, and a car to pack before we go to church tonight! Here is to a busy day that will end with great times with family, celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Fun Friday!

2007-12-21T11:09:00.000-05:00

3 Random things:

My sister Lisa made all of our siblings into elfs. Check us out here.

We just got back last week from Jeremy's InterVarsity Regional meeting at Rockbridge. It was our first big trip with baby Joshua- 4 days, 3 nights, and a carload of baby stuff! Good news- we survived!

I got my hair chopped off a few nights ago. I'll add a picture later- but the pile of hair on the floor looked like Cousin It.

Children

2007-12-04T07:49:00.000-05:00

"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward." Psalm 127:3 This is truth.

Friday night Fun!

2007-11-30T20:28:00.001-05:00

This is a fun picture I found of Jeremy and I while I was browsing through old photo's tonight. We had only been married a month and we headed to Smith Mountain Lake for my birthday weekend with family. It was fun relaxing on the lake- and enjoying my brothers great passion for noodling. We had no idea that we would be parents 13 months later . . . . . God always has great plans for us!

Opps

2007-11-25T20:41:00.000-05:00

So, the link doesn't work below, try this.

Christmas Shopping?

2007-11-25T20:31:00.001-05:00

So, I know most people are super organized and have already made lists for shopping. They have made a spreadsheet with the holiday budget and have created columns for wrapping and cards sent. "They" actually are few and far between. Anyone like me- I am just realizing that Christmas is less than a month away . . . hmmmm.

I do have my Christmas tree up! Jeremy and I invested in a fake one from Target this year. The past few years I have loved the smell of a fresh tree in my home, but with little Joshua and planning for future additions to the family, an artificial tree seemed the best choice (and a good way to save a bit of money each year).

Enough about Christmas, I'm addicted to this site by FlyLady. Check it out. It is hillarious- I joined and I'm loving it.

Also, here is a cute picture of Joshua . . .

Scrabble

2007-11-15T13:42:00.000-05:00

Jeremy and I love to play board games and cards. We spent a good deal of our dating relationship playing games together and with other people. Scrabble is one of our favorites- Jeremy wins most of the time, but I can say that every once in a blue moon I win.

Since getting married and having Joshua, we have not been able to play as often as before. There are some couples that also love games near by and we have an occasional dinner and game night. Those are the best!

A few days ago, when Joshua was napping, we broke out the Scrabble board. It was so nice to sit and play with Jeremy- I was loving it! The funny part is that I was too tired to finish that night, so we had to make it a 2 day Scrabble game. Jeremy won- big time. I'm a bit rusty!

So, I encourage you all to turn off the TV, put the computer away, lay down your book, and play a board game! Play with your family, your friends, and enjoy! They even have the Scrabble Dictionary on-line here. This is for those of you who play by the rules!

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, plan on dusting off the old board games and having some good old fashioned fun!

Reading

2007-11-07T17:08:00.000-05:00

I love to read, and I can read fast! When the "Harry Potter" craze came out, I waited until the 4th book was released before I started- and I read the first 4 in about 3 weeks.

Reading is important to Jeremy and I both. He finds himself reading constantly now. He has his leisure reading (which is usually pretty heavy reading) and now his work reading. Right now he is reading J.I. Packer's Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God to research for a paper he is writing on Evangelism. I'm pretty sure he has read it before, and I read it a few years back when I was on staff with IV. I don't have as much time to read as I used to, but I'm finding bits of time here and there.

We want reading to be a big part of Joshua's life too. His Grandma G has given him lots of books for us to read to him, and one of my baby showers was a "childhood book" theme. Joshua has a mini-library started. I try to read to him every day. This past week, he has really started to watch me and the pages and it is exciting!

This picture we took last week. We like to say that Joshua started with a little "light" reading. I need to read the book first- can't be beat out by my 11 week old yet! So, what are YOU reading?

November?

2007-11-01T07:38:00.000-04:00

Is it November already? Didn't someone invent a way to slow down time in order to catch up on life? No? Okay, then that was one of my crazy dreams that I have. Here is an interesting conversation on a blog to check out- a good friend showed me last night. It should get your blood pumping.

http://www.internetmonk.com/archive/reactions-to-the-60-minutes-joel-osteen-piece#comment-145962

"You'll be lucky to get a shower!"

2007-10-27T10:22:00.000-04:00

This is what I had heard while I was pregnant- and it really scared me! Let me explain: I LOVE SHOWERS! I am a morning person, I can wake up at 5am and as long as I get my hot shower I am good for the day. The shower is a special place for me- to wake up, and relax under the hot steam!

So many moms told me that I would be lucky to get a shower when the baby came. I was preparing for this loss, until having a few more conversations with other moms. "I just put him in his bouncy chair, put him by the bathroom door where I can see, and take a shower while he naps." Amazing! That is- if your baby will nap!

I must admit- I was spoiled the first two weeks after birth- Jeremy was home for a while and could watch Joshua while I showered and family was around for another week, giving me opportunities to take nice long morning showers! But, I had to venture out on my own when my help was gone- and try showers with Joshua a few feet away, passed out in the bouncy chair. To my great joy it works! It still does! Joshua takes his first morning nap while I shower and wake up for the day. Am I spoiled? I think so! I think I have only gone 2 days since delivery day without a shower. . . must be a world record! Like I said before- I LOVE SHOWERS! So, be encouraged! If you have a napping baby and a bouncy chair- it can happen for you too!

Family Photo

2007-10-26T19:31:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, a friend from church took some family shots of Jeremy, Joshua, and I at the Lion's Bridge near our apartment. This was also where Jeremy proposed to me, so it was great to be back there with him and our son. We had a lot of fun, and the pictures turned out fantastic.

I've spent a lot of time thinking lately about us as a family, how quickly Joshua is growing up, and how much we are changing as a family. God has been doing some amazing things in both of us as parents and I really need to find time to slow down, reflect on what God is doing, and thank Him.

We really do have so much to be thankful for, and it is all because of what God has given us. All the glory to Him for what He is doing and will do in our family.

Sick Baby

2007-10-22T15:03:00.000-04:00

I didn't know how upset I would be when Joshua got sick for the first time. I had no idea I would cry more than he did- seriously! Many of you know he got sick last week and I was so upset about it- really struggling with thinking that I was a terrible mom (even though I knew this was a lie). How could I let me son get sick so early on? - As if I had control over it!

Joshua had a fever for about a week, and had to have several tests done to make sure nothing was seriously wrong with him. The great news is that everything came back great- and he is over his fever- and as cute as ever. The unexpected news is that I realized how helpless I felt while he was sick. He can't tell me anything yet- what is hurting, why he is crying, what he needs. He is completely depending on Jeremy and I for his needs (and what he wants when he gets older).

This reminds me of my relationship with God- I am completely dependent on God for my needs.The difference is that He knows exactly what I need and when I need it. Even better, God knows Joshua's every need and will provide for both of us. I am looking forward to all the new ways God will reveal himself to me in parenthood.

Death of a Cell Phone

2007-10-11T09:58:00.000-04:00

I'm not quite sure why I tried to tuck my cell phone into the shoulder strap of my shirt while leaning over to clean the tub. The water was already on, filling up quickly. The sponge was in one hand and I needed my other hand to grip the tub while I scrubbed. My only problem was that free hand was not free at all, it was clutching my cell phone (You know, in case someone called I would have it right with me- I know, crazy). So, thinking it was a great idea, (I have done this often these days to carry my phone while transporting Joshua from room to room) I tucked it under my shirt strap and leaned over to start scrubbing. Plop! Death of a Cell Phone.

It didn't happen fast. No, it happened slow, teasing me. At first it was still working, so I wiped it off and set it aside to dry. I finished cleaning the tub. When I picked it up- the screen was black! But, the buttons still lit up. When Jeremy got home that night, he even got it to call his phone- I could live without a phone screen for a while. As tragic as it was, this morning, the cell phone was no more. No more screen. No more buttons lighting up. No more calls going out or coming in.

How attached am I to my cell phone? So much so that I almost had a panic attack when realizing it was gone. Not really, but I am realizing how attached to technology I am. Maybe I need a vacation?

GREAT resource for new mommies

2007-09-29T17:58:00.000-04:00

So, after the advice of a nurse and several other "moms", Jeremy and I ordered "Happiest Baby on the Block". This is a DVD that gives parents tips on calming crying babies and helping new babies sleep longer through the night. I must say as we were watching we kept looking at each other saying "no way!- lets wake Joshua up and try this now!". We were very impressed.

Of course, we did not wake Joshua up. However, when he did wake up fussy, we used the techniques from the video and were amazed to know they worked!

I must recommend this video for ALL new moms- so if you are one, or know one, please get this video! It helped us tremendously with getting Joshua to sleep longer at night- even just putting him down in the beginning. I cannot stress enough how it helped us and Joshua . . . so please get it and watch it soon!

There is also "Happiest Toddler on the Block" that we plan to purchase when Joshua gets older!

For the Love of Sleep!

2007-09-28T14:29:00.000-04:00

As you can imagine, sleep is something you don't get very much of as a new mom- or dad! I was running on adrenaline for the first few weeks home with Joshua. Every moment I was watching him, excited about him, thanking God for him. However, this is not good if you forget to REST- sleep while the baby sleeps- recover from delivery- relax your body and mind. All of these I forgot to do much of the first two weeks home.

So, after a good talk with Jeremy (several of them), some good talks with great friends, and lots of crying- I learned that sleep deprivation is my enemy. For the first time in a month, this week I slept at least 6 hours at night and Jeremy took care of Joshua.

The not so fun part of this for me is pumping breast milk for Jeremy to give Joshua at night. Forgive me for getting so personal, but it is almost humorous to find yourself in a position similar to a cow. I know I'll get used to it . . . but for now and for the love of sleep- I'll do it!

Labor and Delivery

2007-09-16T14:40:00.000-04:00

On August 27th I experienced first hand the journey of labor and delivery. I gave birth to my first son, Joshua. Nothing could have prepared me for this amazing time. Yes, it was painful, and yes, I would do it again. With no epidural and no pain medicine, I called out "the Lord is my strength" during contractions and the Lord really was my strength to make it through. Seeing my son for the first time after carrying him for nine months made me speechless. Jeremy and I are both in awe of the life that was created in me.

One of my favorite passages in scripture is Psalm 139. It is a psalm of David and it speaks to Gods personal knowledge of us and how He created us. Verse 13 says "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." This took on a whole new meaning during my pregnancy and it encourages me to know that God created Joshua and what a gift he is to Jeremy and I. We are both excited about what God is going to be showing us and doing through our growing family!