I'll Say a Little Prayer For You....

Bedtime in the Aaron household is probably not much different from your home...bath/shower, read a book, brush teeth, get tucked into bed, and then a prayer. Leading up to the prayer I usually say something like, "ok, guys let's pray now"... not a very exciting, spiritual, or memorable intro. Micah hasn't seemed to really get into it as he continues to play with the toys he has quietly assembled to join him in his bed. Well, when Grandma Rushing was here visiting, Micah developed a change of heart. My mom tucked the boys into bed one evening, and she said, "Let's talk to Jesus." Micah looked at her like she was from another planet and answered, "huh???"

I'm not sure exactly how the conversation transpired after that, but I do know ever since then Micah, who was always so indifferent to our nighttime "prayer," reminds me every night that we need to talk to Jesus. My mom's suggestion that evening really personalized it for him. When its his turn to pray, he often repeats much of my prayer, adds in a little something about dinosaurs and Pirates of the Carribean, and ends with "the end." And after reminding Josiah that its his turn and trying so desperately to get Jacob to join in, he then "allows" me to leave the room, but only because he's had about 14 kisses and we have talked to Jesus.

Need a Little Encouragement

Ok, so far I have lost 8.5 lbs 5 weeks into my journey towards that bikini bod. Pretty good, I guess. I'm in the lead (among the women) at work, so I'm on the right track. But Wednesday night I baked a batch of cookies and they were all gone by noon the next day. OUCH! ...talk about feeling like crap. I felt as if I gained all my weight back in one day even though I know that's not possible. I woke up this morning having to make a decision whether or not to throw in the towel just for the weekend, but that would have been dangerous because it probably wouldn't have ended at the weekend. Once I "cheat" like that its almost as if I immediately feel like I've failed. But, I'm proud to say that I made the right decision and started fresh this morning, getting back on track, but I could still use a "you can do it" or "I'm supporting you" or "you're doing a great job." Sound a little needy? Oh, well. I just really want to succeed this time.

Happy Birthday, Josiah! (5 days late)

I have the following picture as my wallpaper on my computer screen, mainly because I think its so stinkin cute. But after seeing this picture day after day, I began to notice something about it.


Its my three beautiful red-headed boys, two of whom still need alot of assistance and direction in day to day life. I noticed that Josiah, in the middle, is walking confidently with shoulders held high, holding each of his brothers by the hand. He is grasping Micah's hand, or wrist, firmly, as if he knows that is what Micah needs to keep him from running into the parking lot. He is holding Jacob's hand gently and tenderly showing compassion for his brother who needs his help even though he is older. Maybe I am over analyzing this photo, but I really feel like it gives such a clear "picture" of who Josiah is. He is a loving, compassionate, loyal, and proctective brother who wants to teach them everything he knows. I love you, Josiah, for just being who you are. Your brothers are so lucky to have you in their life. Happy 7th birthday.

Out of the Mouths of Babes

Last night I asked Josiah who he wanted to become president. He knows the names of both candidates, but Alex and I haven't talked too much with him about political issues. His answer was, "Which one is the one who wouldn't tell secrets about his friends?" (referring to McCain's refusing the opportunity to be released from the POW camp). Alex answered John McCain. Josiah then stated matter of factly, "Him, then. I want him." He then asked Alex and I who we "liked better" and we both answered McCain. Josiah looked somewhat confused as he asked, "Then why is Barak Obama always on the stage on TV?" I thought this was quite insightful especially coming from a 7 year old. Take what you will....:)

Watch Your Mouth

We were all five sitting at the table having dinner the other night when something, I can't remember what, caused the word "crap" to come out of Alex's mouth. Micah looked at him with a confused look on his face and said, "crap, Daddy?" Alex apologized to the kids for using the word and then got softly scolded by Josiah who said, "Daddy, you really need to watch what you say in front of the little one" (referring to Micah). After all, Josiah DID start 1st grade today.

Alex's little blunder isn't quite as bad as the word that flies out of my mouth sometimes. After hearing Micah (who is only 2) searching all over his room the other day for his "freakin pillow," I have decided to put forth much more effort in taming my tongue.