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Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Happy 7th Birthday Erick

Hey Y'all:

Today is my oldest son's 7th birthday!

I sit in awe watching his progression from infant to baby, baby to toddler, toddler to preschooler, preschooler to gradschooler and one day I'll be watching him as he walks across a stage to receive his college degree and with the help of God I'll witness his marriage and transition into parenthood!

Here is something I wrote when he was 3 I think I will continue to share this until he turns 10.

My big boy... Current mood: thoughtful


He used to be so small.
Needed me to carry, feed, dress and change him. But a transformation happened. There was a time when he couldn't speak for himself now he can. He couldn't say he wanted milk or to play or even that he wanted to cuddle but now, now he tells me when he's thirsty and says exactly what he wants. The other day he actually poured himself a cup of orange juice. I don't know if I'm supposed to be happy that my baby is now a boy or if I'm allowed to be sad just for a little while, because my baby is now a BOY!

He doesn't have that powder fresh baby smell anymore but instead smells like a little man full of testosterone. Soon he'll be off to school (pre-k but school just the same) and not want to hug, kiss or cuddle with me. What then will I do?

He's growing into a well spoken articulate little person with personality for days. He has his own beautiful mind. He's three and has a favorite number, it's the number 1 and he hasn't changed his mind about it in two weeks. Next he'll have a favorite color then a favorite class and eventually I won't be his favorite girl!

Oh my, my little baby isn't a baby anymore! The child that I prayed for, begged God for is a walking, talking, singing, healthy beautiful little boy and man do I love him. Noggin all day and all, he is my inspiration.

He carries my heart with him and doesn't even know it or care for that matter. He will always be my baby my1 gift from God. A blessing from my womb that was promised to me. He will be a powerful human being he will bring light and love into this world. He will live a life full of joy and accomplishment and most importantly he will be a man after God's own heart. He will love the people of God unconditionally, he will empower those who are powerless, and he will develop ideas for his generation that will change lives. Not because I say so but because it is the will of God for his life. He will live a life fully committed and dedicated to God. He will be a servant and he'll be used of God as an honest upright man come what may!

He will be Erick Jeremiah Brown; Doctor, Teacher, Preacher, Lawyer, Musician, Master Builder, Train Operator etc.... whatever he wants to be he'll be and he'll be it to the glory and honor of God.
My baby is a boy who will grow into a beautiful man, just like his Dad!


Happy Birthday Erick! Mommy loves you.

Until next time...
MUAH!

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

LIVE Christmas Tree Fire Prevention

Hey Y'all:

 
This year I'm not in charge of the Christmas tree. I'm a little sad because I loved my tree from last year; which of course was artificial. This year we'll have a live tree, I had to do my research on preventing house fires that spark most during this time of year. According to the US Fire Administration Christmas trees account for 250 fires annually, resulting in 14 deaths, 26 injuries and more than $13.8 million in property damage. Typically shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Well-watered trees are not a problem. Dry and neglected trees can be.

 
So here are some helpful tips from the US Fire Administration on keeping your family safe this holiday season.

  • When picking your tree make sure the needles are green and hard to pull back from the branches. The needles should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. To check that the tree isn't old bounce the tree trunk on the ground if needles fall off the tree is old. Move on.
  • Once you get your lovely fresh find home put it in the stand with water and be sure NOT to put the tree by heat. I know most of our homes/apartments have radiators by the window which is a prime placement for our tree but safety first. Don't put it there, find another spot that will still allow you to show off your decorating skills.
  • Before you decorate your tree please check your holiday lights. Make sure there aren't any frayed wires, bare spots, broken or cracked sockets or any damage to the strand of lights. This will cause a fire. After you've confirmed their safety (or purchased new lights) do not overload electrical outlets.
  • When adding ornaments be sure they are non flammable. Stay away from any paper ornaments if you can I know your little cutie made the sweetest paper plate ornament at school, place it somewhere else in the house. Maybe on the fridge or on top of the mantel. 
  • water your tree every night and do NOT leave the lights on over night. When you turn out the kitchen light for the night. Turn off the tree lights as well.
Check the US Fire Administration site for more tips on fire safety (they have some good video's as well) and read some of these Christmas Tree Myths over at the Christmas Tree Association (yes, there is a Christmas Tree Association).

 

Until next time...
MUAH!

 

It's December; are you ready?

Hey Y'all:

I was caught off guard last Thursday when I had to flip my calendar to December.
I'm not ready.

Not for Christmas
Not for 2012

I'm just not ready to say 2011 is over. Not that is was that great a year but because I'm not sure what 2012 will hold. So many things have changed that I'm anxious about the next 12 months. Praying that many things change for the better in this new year but unsure of what actions are going to cause a reaction. Will I be pushed into change or will they organically come?

I haven't purchased one Christmas gift.
Don't even have my customary list.

I don't like being unprepared but I am this year.
Many of our traditions are not going to be upheld this year and this too makes me sad and not ready.

Then I read this scripture and my soul is soothed; if only for a little while
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

Are you ready?

Until next time...
MUAH!