DC Adventure...METRO Style

Now I often, well pretty often try to bring our kids to DC. First of all, it is our nation's capitol. Second of all, we may not live here forever. Third and honestly most importantly is because Daddy is there. So on Tuesday, we chose to go into Washington DC. Instead of driving in like we typically do, I decided to take the metro. What an adventure! First of all, I had planned to stop at the Archives so we could see the Declaration of Independence. Well, let's just say that didn't happen. But after 1 hour 1/2 (of metro travel) we finally arrived in front of Andrew's office. Just as M said " I have to go potty!" Sometimes timing is funny. Thankfully, we arrived at the time A was getting off work. Instead of taking the long metro trip back, we decided to walk across the Capitol grounds to get to a closer metro to our vehicle before our trip home. We stopped and prayed for our representatives who meet there and took a couple of family shots as well. The trip home seemed like seconds compared to the long trip to get to Daddy. Interesting how that happens...

Breakfast David made for us all by himself-Oatmeal! :)

The beginning of the metro adventure...

my beautiful family

On our way home...

"I want to be a big girl and stand"

Our Nation's Capitol-DC

Blessings...in disguise

Have you ever wondered how God prepares you? I have often wondered how I could survive a trial and then I reflect and realize He had been gently loving me when I was clueless to what was about to happen. This is one of those instances. 

To back up a bit...this summer, through God's leading (from a girl at an Amish fruit stand) I danced at our church's talent show to a song by Laura Story. The song was "Grace" and it reflected what I had been journeying through the past few months. It was even more precious to me as my three children came on stage to finish the dance with me, because they truly are apart of my life journey. It was beautiful and definitely made me realize how much I truly love dancing and how much apart of me it is. So, beginning in September I began teaching my daughter ballet and tap at our friends in home studio. During this time, a godly woman from the church asked me to dance in the women's retreat in November. As I begin preparing, I couldn't help but be drawn to "Blessings" by Laura Story. One of the things I am always aware of as a choreographer is not to use the same artist more than once (at least so close together with a similar audience). But I could not shake the feeling that Blessings was the song for the evening. I also asked two beautiful ladies to join me. So we choreographed, we worked, we practice, we danced, and we prepared and shared our wonderful piece with the ladies. I am always moved when I dance, there is something about me giving this gift to my Savior that touches me in a deep place inside my heart. However, this time I was physically brought to tears during the dance, which had never happened before. 

Fast forward and nine days into January we are driving home and I have the thought to switch between our two Christian stations. As I do, "Blessings" by Laura Story is playing. (And my daughter proceeds to say "Mommy Dance!" as she does to any song I have danced to-that she knows about). It was one of the first times I had heard it played since November. And all of a sudden the lyrics in this song hit me in a way that I had not been touched by previously. 

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights 

Are what it takes to know You’re near

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

I had been shedding a lot of tears if not on the outside on the inside. I had been wondering why and struggling with God's purpose and plan through this loss. The loss of our precious blessing that I had been carrying in my womb. The news hit us hard because it was two days before Christmas that we were told our baby had stopped growing. It was two days after Christmas that our precious child left my body. Needless to say it was a holiday filled with many mixed emotions. And it was during this time my husband said that perhaps this was God's mercy for us. At the time, I was not able to discern anything or even think coherently. I was so consumed with the thought of a life inside of me that was already in heaven. The overwhelming loss I felt thinking that there was nothing I could do as this child's mother but pray, hope, and wait. 

So now as I am listening to this song, I am flabbergasted at the way God has been preparing me to not only physically express this song through my dance, but emotionally understand it to a deeper point. God, I know with all my heart that your plan for my life is to "prosper me, not to harm me, plans to give me a hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). I remember our child each time I look at our peace lilly and know that God wanted to hold our baby in His arms now and one day I will hold our precious blessing. I also know that one day He will give us another little one to hold on this side of heaven. And until then I know that I have to trust Him that sometimes the trials of this life are truly His mercies in disguise!

Welcoming of Winter

It feels like few and far between for snow here in Maryland. Honestly, when we have an outdoor adventure like we had two days ago, snow is typically not in sight. But, today was an exception, because WE HAVE SNOW! D's comment was "Finally winter has come!" For my kids, winter equals snow and outdoors we go. The kids could barely finish their snack once we peered out the window and saw the snow was finally sticking. We raced to put on our coats, hats, sneakers, and accessories and next thing I know I see three smiles on my children's faces and I am snapping away. Here are some of the precious moments I was able to capture. 

Our first encounter with snow as we headed to the library...we had no idea what the day would bring.

The second glimpse from our window.

Outdoors we go

"Ready guys, we are going to..."

our "backyard"

Look Mom at all this snow...if I could only see it. ;)

Peek A Boo!

A progression of big brother leading the way of rolling around in the snow.

I love watching big brother care for his sisters.

Thank You Lord for making me white as snow!

We also tried something new with our school day. I read an article two days ago discussing some wisdom about reading to young kids and not having them sit for book work. Now, I will admit I always wanted to be a teacher, so book work is not something I am totally against. (Although, I am not a fan of assigning work that is "busy work"). But lately, I had truly been struggling with watching my six year old wrestle with school. He used to get so much delight out of waking up and beginning the school day. But this past week, it would take him all day to get 3, maybe 4 subjects finished. Should I set a timer and be strict with him? Should I begin taking away his precious Star Wars legos? My hearts desire was to bring learning again in a light that was fun and not a checklist for him and admittedly me as well. So today we tried something new. I woke up and asked the Lord for guidance and wisdom as to where to start. I had the idea of reading on the couch all morning. So we started our day with Bible just like always, but instead of diving into Math, we curled up on the couch and read our whole real aloud book for history. I even pulled out a puzzle and tangrams for the kids to quietly work on while they listened. We also have our girls castle near the couch so I got a glimpse of some princess and princes riding throughout the land. It was so peaceful and as we ran a couple of errands in the afternoon I noticed a change in his demeanor. He was relaxed and even asked me a few questions about the book while we were checking out at the grocery store. I definitely had the thoughts like, he was listening! When we were loading up the van from the store he even gave me a hug and just cuddled with me. We haven't had a moment like that in  awhile. When we got home after our snow adventure we did about 20 minutes of book work that included handwriting and math. His attitude about math was positive and wanted to make sure I was close just in case he needed help, but he did it all on his own. I don't know what we will do tomorrow, but I will admit I enjoyed the change in terms of his attitude, our battling to get "everything" done, and the relaxed nature of the day where we were able to transition smoothly and get things done with precious, tender moments throughout. What a wonderful wintery day!


P.S. The link to the article is here: http://www.likeawarmcupofcoffee.com/home/2012/01/homeschool-wisdom-worth-interrupting-the-blog-break/

A day of rest

I love Sundays.

I love that Andrew is home. 

I love that we are all together.

I loved putting the girls in these dresses. First, it is so fun to watch Rachel wear the same dresses that Mary wore not that long ago. I was also thankful for time away as I snuck into our bedroom and worked on my David bible study by Beth Moore. I love that I can go relax and know that the kids will be safe in the hands of their Daddy (& that they will have fun!) Yesterday we found a wooden play kitchen for the kids. So today we began the process of putting it together. I took some time away and Andrew and the kids began the adventure. When I peeked out I caught a couple of pictures. We finished our evening by watching the Steelers. I am a born and raise fan and have taught my kids as well. Though Andrew's family is Steelers fan, he grew up as a Giants fan. Currently though, his allegiances are neutral. He will cheer for the Steelers though. Well we watched them lose, but I will admit if we lost to anyone I am glad it was Denver. I am hoping for a Denver and NY Giants Super Bowl, but we will wait and see. What a wonderful weekend and a good start for the week ahead.

Playground Day in January...who would have thought.

I couldn't believe the weather we had this weekend. It was incredible. Andrew & I knew that getting these kids outside was a must. So here are some fun photos from our adventure at a local school's playground. :)

Thank you Lord for warm Saturdays with Daddy! :)

Doctor Day

Friday-what a day. We began the day at the doctors and ended the day at the dentist with two more doctors appointments in between.


First, we headed to a Urology appointment for Andrew. Last week he had kidney stones for the third time and we wanted to make sure that everything is healthy. The doctor was fantastic at not only his job but putting us all at ease especially our kids. He was encouraging and told us everything straight. At this point, everything is fine and we will reacess in six months.


Next, we traveled to my ob appointment. In some regards, this apt was bittersweet. It was supposed to be my first appointment where we were going to hear the heartbeat of our precious baby. Instead, it was an appointment to make sure that everything was ok with me since the miscarriage. I won't find out until Monday, but it was healing and a closing for me. It brought all the emotions that I felt the day I discovered a problem. It reminded me of the joy and excitement we had for this new child inside of me, and yet trusting that God has HIS best interests for us. It was a moment of trusting my Savior. It also reminded me that 18 mos ago I gave birth to my daughter, Rachel in that very same building. God's love and preciousness of life was sitting right on my lap looking at me with her big blue eyes.

Then we headed out for lunch, which is a treat for us. We headed to a pizza place and surprise! they had gluten free pizza. Our children have sensitivities to gluten. Mary has the worst of it as she develops a rash that causes her to itch. So we do our best to stay away and learn to cook meals without wheat. It has been an adventure, but one that I am thankful for as I watch my daughter's face light up.

Next we stopped at our favorite doctor's office, Dr. Vickers, our pediatrician. She has been such a wonderful blessing for our family. When we first moved to Annapolis, we began at one pediatrician office. The more time I was there, something was unsettling to me. To be honest, it was not anything they did, it was a mother's instinct. So when we gave birth to our third child, we decided that was a natural progression to switch offices. Well, I won't give all the details, but the we shall say they tried to cheat us financially. So, again we decided to look for a new pediatrician. Dr. Vickers had just opened a new office very close to us and with a friend's recommendation we were in. We have loved that office, the staff, the nurses, and the doctors. The major blessing has been she helped us work through Mary's skin rash. For about 2 1/2 years, we could not solve it and with Dr. Vickers help we have been able to give Mary a life where she is not itching everyday. Well, we went for Rachel's 18 mos apt. She is looking fantastic. She has a small rash that we are solving.

Then across the street to the dentist for Ms. Mary & Mr. David. It was Mary's 1st dentist apt. She was so excited and nervous. David being an old pro at it went first. Next, Mary sat there next to her brother. It was adorable-lots of pictures were taken! :) And Rachel was a hit with all the nurses. What a joy it is to have kids who love each other and for Daddy to be with us all day.

As Andrew & I reflected on our day with the kids. We sat back to thank the Lord that we live in a country where we can each go to the doctor and make sure that we are healthy. We have the finances and insurance to be able to be seen by some of the best doctors and dentists. We as a family can be together and thank the One who has given us this life. We were also thankful that each of the visits proved to be helpful, but also positive news. We could use a little positive news and even if we didn't, we know the one who has the best plan for us. So Friday...doctor day, thankful day, a good day.

Where do names come from?

Why do you name something? What is in a name anyways? Each of my children have a name that comes from the Bible. The funny thing is they have been reading the stories about the biblical characters they were named after. For me, I hope that people see the meaning of my name (follower of Christ) as a synonym, for my life. 
Another reason I had not started a blog was just coming up with a creative name. Then one night (back in September 2011) I thought of the name Following Christ, Training Children. He had brought to my attention the verse Proverbs 22:6. "Train a child in the way He should go and when he is old he will not turn from it." What does that mean? What did it mean to me? I began praying and seeking wisdom from Scripture and books as to how that verse and my life crossed paths other than being a mom. I began to see my life and essentially my job as a mom as more than just a day to day case of changing diapers, nursing, homeschooling, toilet training, disciplining, but one of discipling, raising, and caring for our children-our gifts from the Lord. That is not always an easy task especially when you are caring for one very active boy and two young girls, while still trying to be a wife and best friend to another. 
Life is not easy and being a Christian does not make it easier either. However, the one thing I have learned is that my best friend (God) has the answers. He may not tell me in that moment. He may never tell me, but He has my best interest in heart. He knew that I was going to be the best mommy to these three (right now) precious children. That is a huge responsibility that I do not take lightly. So Lord as I begin this blog, more importantly I dedicate my children and husband to you. I ask that you protect them, but also grow them in wisdom and stature. May they seek you all the days of their life and dwell in the house of the Lord forever.


Here they are...

Introductions:
First we have Andrew or Daddy as three precious little ones call him. He enjoys Economics-yes I know not many do but my best friend does. He does karate, loves going to the beach, and being a Dad. 
On Dad's lap we have Rachel Bear or Rachie as she has just begun being called around here. :) She is the youngest of our family right now. She is a little girl who loves to twirl around. She always has the most diverse facial expressions, which makes photography extra fun. She has two favorite blankets and one favorite doll that go everywhere with her. 
Next is myself Kristen aka Mommy. I love Jesus and dance and bringing the two together is pure delight for me. When I was a little girl I would dance around the room and pretend to be a teacher. Now I get to teach my children everyday. I truly enjoy this experience and have been thankful for the opportunity to homeschool. 
On my lap is Mary or MareBear. She brings life and excitement to our family, which is ironic since she also brings peace and calmness. She loves dolls and pretending to be their Mommy. She also is learning how to dance and she is always singing a song.
Next to me is the one and only David. His name also means Beloved, which he truly is to us. We almost lost him at the young age of 2 months and his life is a wonderful story in and of itself. I truly am thankful for the miracle of life and have been learning more about how precious it is. He is the protector of those two beautiful girls. He is the boy with a tender heart who prayed for a year 1/2 for a baby sister (& got two) :) He he. He is also a boy with an adventurous spirit. He is very athletic, loves to draw, and enjoys building legos especially Star Wars. 


I think that is a good introduction to our family and blog. Join us on our journey.

Welcome 2012 & Welcome Orr Family Blog

2012 is here. I have been contemplating creating a blog documenting family life for the Orrs for years now. I have listed multiple excuses and some actually valid ones. But then I read a dear friends blog and the title was "the one in which I question whether I should keep blogging." Well for me, it brought out all the reasons I have been desiring to start a blog. So I began thinking of my excuses. I am afraid of creating a website. Well check, I started a photo blog. I am afraid none will read it, well if my kids are able to look back and see the exciting things we have done than forget that one (or even my husband while he is away at work). I am also nervous that I will write something that will be wrong in one way or another. Sometimes you just have to get over your fears, so here we go. 

Welcome 2012 and welcome Orr Family Blog!