tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.comments2018-08-14T10:16:36.828-05:00Livin' the LifeJenni Austellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10347411806243729132noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-47563229019553782382018-08-14T10:16:36.828-05:002018-08-14T10:16:36.828-05:00Hi Jenni! A few weeks ago I announced on social me...Hi Jenni! A few weeks ago I announced on social media that our family is also moving to Addis and a mutual friend of ours connected me to your blog! I have enjoyed reading through your posts and getting an inside look about what life is like there. Would love to connect more but I didn't see an email address on here. My email is ruthinaveltman@gmail.com if you want to connect!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09410810885750057436noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-90774252144255363672018-02-16T04:01:32.922-06:002018-02-16T04:01:32.922-06:00Perfect pictures! I love celebrating my birthday w...Perfect pictures! I love celebrating my birthday with my family. Next time is my 16th birthday and I have invited all my relatives living abroad and far away, Mamma had to book one of the <a href="https://eventup.com/venues/chicago-il/" rel="nofollow">venues in Chicago</a> to accommodate so many people but I know she is as happy as I am.Drew Wattshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14187808483145982017noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-47733523588220727582017-05-29T21:50:50.307-05:002017-05-29T21:50:50.307-05:00WOW!!! What an adventure indeed!!! Sounds pretty a...WOW!!! What an adventure indeed!!! Sounds pretty amazing!!! And your sweet girls!!! Blessings!Ashley Lusterhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18239700189698027405noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-82964752657472233302017-05-28T22:39:12.535-05:002017-05-28T22:39:12.535-05:00Love all of this. Conversation with Kennedy choked...Love all of this. Conversation with Kennedy choked me up. So proud of you guys! brett ungerhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13251230136224950460noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-9936898719964403072017-05-28T20:29:47.600-05:002017-05-28T20:29:47.600-05:00How amazing and awesome!!!How amazing and awesome!!!Kandrahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11208786326468661616noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-88658512377285181262014-07-18T22:42:01.048-05:002014-07-18T22:42:01.048-05:00Sooo fun!! Your babies are beautiful!!! I still ca...Sooo fun!! Your babies are beautiful!!! I still can't believe its been two years since you and Age were prego and you have another baby!!! Love it!!! Such sweet pics of your party friend :) have a great weekend! Ashley Lusterhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18239700189698027405noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-18036764882675943022014-04-08T21:39:10.367-05:002014-04-08T21:39:10.367-05:00I remember a dear friend telling me that when you ...I remember a dear friend telling me that when you go from 1 to 2 children your love isn't split between them, but instead you just have more. I felt that to be very true for us-- time is divided for SURE, but there is somehow more love to go around. :)<br /><br />Excited to meet Brooklyn soon! Hang in there.Merrihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16924519385696059599noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-85379402494752609382014-02-10T20:50:57.190-06:002014-02-10T20:50:57.190-06:00I immediately just went and bought that book on am...I immediately just went and bought that book on amazon! lol... I always find myself praying the same things. I'm excited about this one. Thanks for the recommendation! Amber Gutshallhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06929078856817961150noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-627756219039928772013-12-09T21:29:15.889-06:002013-12-09T21:29:15.889-06:00Love this Jen! You're beautiful through and th...Love this Jen! You're beautiful through and through.Sarah Gracehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02352094023066887069noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-16668991300499821792013-08-03T14:35:23.799-05:002013-08-03T14:35:23.799-05:00So cute! And, I bought some 2T Nike shorts for Cor...So cute! And, I bought some 2T Nike shorts for Cora at a consignment sale for next year, so I bet they make 12 mos. ones, too!Stefaniehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15070204528355833892noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-46212464042912126962013-01-14T22:39:22.735-06:002013-01-14T22:39:22.735-06:00Hey Jenni,
We've never met, but I am Kent'...Hey Jenni,<br /><br />We've never met, but I am Kent's sort of/not really cousin (Jonathan and Missy are my aunt and uncle, too). I also went to Wheaton and somehow stumbled upon your blog somewhere along the line... Anyway, I have two little girls (ages 2 1/2 and nearly 6 months), so I totally feel you on this post!<br /><br />Being a mom really is all about sacrifice. Thankfully our second girl is waaaay more relaxed than the first, but Charis (our oldest) was really, really difficult, fussy, and high maintenance for many months. I felt trapped at home and cabin-feverish so often, but it really was just the way it had to be.<br /><br />I remember one thing the Lord specifically laid on my heart during that time, and that was that Paul wrote the book of Philippians while in house arrest. The passage in Philippians that talks about having joy and finding contentment in all situations really was close to my heart during that time, and though it sounds really dramatic (and probably is), I always loved thinking about that passage being written by Paul while he, too, was "stuck" at home. :) He couldn't be out doing ministry or sharing the gospel like he probably wanted to, but he still was able to write with such insight and depth... and he found such joy!<br /><br />Also, I've found that the key to my girls' happiness while out and about is a front pack/baby carrier. My almost 6-month-old, Siloam, won't make a sound if she is in that thing, and Charis was the same way when she was that age. Do you have one of those? Maybe that would help prevent public meltdowns.<br /><br />Hang in there! This too shall pass. :) <br /><br /><br />Kelseyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01523693794133338222noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-73715657491615131402013-01-14T12:18:15.640-06:002013-01-14T12:18:15.640-06:00When Emerson was in this phase (with a 6:30 bedtim...When Emerson was in this phase (with a 6:30 bedtime), we invited other couples to our house for dinner regularly. I also started a playgroup with moms & babies around the same age and we still meet and are almost all on baby #2. It has been the biggest blessing. We meet in each others homes so it's easy to nurse and let the babies roll around and play. I also went to a Bible study one morning a week. I've already decided that with Lyla (on the way), I'm going to try to be more lax about giving her bottles for church and Bible study so I can have more un-interupted time with women. And don't feel like you are being unproductive, or not serving or helping, because you are spending time with your own child and even at this age you can begin teaching her ideas about the gospel and Christ's love. I believe staying at home with our babies is more significant than we realize sometimes. It begins to establish that bond between you and her that will last even into adulthood, when you can really have meaningful conversations :) I'm sure you have other moms who feel the same way in your area. Maybe you should invite them all over! Over the next year, Kennedy will gradually become more flexible and give you more freedom. Thanks for sharing! Amber Gutshallhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06929078856817961150noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-69362732911673543452013-01-14T10:56:32.714-06:002013-01-14T10:56:32.714-06:00I just posted an article on facebook regarding the...I just posted an article on facebook regarding the sacrifices mommies make to take care of their little ones. We often lose friends because we just don't see the time to get together. When Ava was little, I hosted a lot more. Invited friends over so Ava could be with her toys and in her environment. When I was nursing her, I chose shopping centers and facilities that had nice nursing areas--nordstroms, macys, churches etc. I was never one to cover up and nurse in public, but I never had the nice blankets you can get now to cover up with. I might do it next time within a group of girlfriends. Around 4 months, I started "forcing" her to have more independent play at home so when we went out, it wasn't offensive to her that I wasn't holding her all of the time. We attached a toy to the top of the carrier that she could pull on to make it sing/light up- that's how we managed the 12 hour drive to your wedding :-)<br /><br />I agree with kelly, that utilizing the time dad is home is key. Even though it's hard, because at the end of the day you just want to relax and have family time with hubby. I would have Paul watch Ava and go to the coffee shop for tea or decaf coffee after dinner. <br /><br />Bottom line is just what everyone says, it's a phase and it gets easier, and then they'll start walking and not want to be anywhere near you when you go out and it'll get hard again. And then you'll figure that out and it'll get easier, and then they start talking, and you really don't get two words in with your friends because your kiddo is taking up the talk space. And then you figure that out and it gets easier :-) <br /><br />Just remember that you are training her now even as she is still so little. So it's good to get out and start teaching her how to be independent when mommy needs time with friends. Even as a 3 year old, ava still has those days where it's just whine and cry and fight everything. It's good to surround yourself around people who know what it's like to parent--especially if you suspect it's a day that might be more difficult. They understand and you don't have to feel bad or self-conscious about the disruption. <br /><br />hang in there! <br /><br />jennyAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-74171261723151720702013-01-14T08:08:29.289-06:002013-01-14T08:08:29.289-06:00Jenni, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! We've all been a sla...Jenni, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! We've all been a slave to our baby's schedule at one point or another. A few things...<br /><br />1) Her needs will change, sooner than you think. This is not forever. Repeat this to yourself as necessary :)<br /><br />2) Give yourself permission to skip either SS or Service on Sundays until she can handle being in childcare for both. <br /><br />3) You need time away from her to engage with friends. That has to be when Daddy can babysit - after work, on weekends, etc. Not ideal to get coffee at 7p, but that's how it has to be for a couple of years.<br /><br />4) Come to Bible study on Thurs AMs! This will preserve your mental health, hopefully refresh you spiritually, and give you some friend connection time. Give her a bottle for nursery that day to teach her to like the bottle. Missing one feeding usually isn't so bad you need to pump, at least in my experience. Or you can run down there and nurse her whenever it is time. One morning/week of her being off her routine and upset may be a good trade off for your social interaction...<br /><br />You are a good mommy to put her needs before yours; you'll be an even better mommy if you get some time with friends a couple times/week. <br /><br />Just my two cents :) Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-1360810199776979832013-01-13T22:53:07.093-06:002013-01-13T22:53:07.093-06:00Girl, this very thing was (and still is because I ...Girl, this very thing was (and still is because I am doing it all over again) the hardest adjustment for me as a new mom. I was (and still am to a certain extent) a SLAVE to Everleigh's schedule! What you are describing as Kennedy's behavior if you deviate, is exactly what we experienced. So hard! But know that it is just a phase! She will get more mobile and predictable and you will be able to do things with her. Especially when she drops that morning nap (which will be before you know it). Hang in there, momma! You will thank yourself for it when she is a rocking sleeper when other people's kids are dropping naps left and right! And guess what, you get to do it all over again with number two! Poor Ev has cabin fever so badly, but I am not ABOUT to get this little guy off schedule! ; ) xoxoJennhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10209332488587939904noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-18350043476358642502012-12-11T13:52:34.590-06:002012-12-11T13:52:34.590-06:00Jenni--you've probably already tried this but ...Jenni--you've probably already tried this but just in case, I've found that George loves it when I turn up music loud and dance for him--I can even put him in an exersaucer in the kitchen and as long as I'm dancing while cooking/putting away dishes or whatever he stays happy... Mandyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08521633379843301095noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-31059972643609951642012-09-11T14:05:36.476-05:002012-09-11T14:05:36.476-05:00Pretty sure it would work for most baked goods rec...Pretty sure it would work for most baked goods recipes! I've used it a number of times and haven't missed the egg at ALL! Not that eggs are bad for you but for those crazy vegans OR if you just don't have eggs on hand, it is awesome. Plus flax is good for yaJenni Austellhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10347411806243729132noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-41217574324201324712012-09-09T22:22:16.215-05:002012-09-09T22:22:16.215-05:00Love all the pics of your cute girl! :)
As for th...Love all the pics of your cute girl! :)<br /><br />As for the flax egg - NEVER heard of it, but would love to give it a try - can you use that substitution in all baked goods? Do you know?<br /><br />And... I LOVE Almond Milk! :DKandrahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11208786326468661616noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-67345824279986546992012-08-16T15:31:10.069-05:002012-08-16T15:31:10.069-05:00Thanks for the update! I'm LOVING her hair wit...Thanks for the update! I'm LOVING her hair with the little curls at the tips! KJ reminds me so much of how Ava was at this age. Ava had the night colic from 10:30p until 2:30a every night for what seemed like eternity. I would take her in the bathroom, turn off the light, and run the water. That stopped her crying. As soon as I thought she was sleeping, I'd turn the water off and her eyes would POP open and it started all over again. Praying for you as you get through these weeks because every parent who has had a child with colic, knows that advice doesn't matter, it's just endurance and good attitude, and encouragement. Praying for all three. One day it will just kind of end.... and you'll hold your breath for a few nights, and then finally let yourself consider the idea that colic might be over.<br /><br />I had the hardest time getting back into my Bible reading after Ava was born. I recommend just getting an encouraging MOMMY specific devotional to start our your day. I would read mine while I pumped at work, and I had an accountability partner ask me daily if I read. <br /><br />Thinking of you guys, and I can't wait to see you all and meet Kennedy. We're hoping to be there for Christmas.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-61663929444766250672012-07-31T23:09:37.905-05:002012-07-31T23:09:37.905-05:00Aww, those pics are priceless!!!! I love when her...Aww, those pics are priceless!!!! I love when her hands are on her face or her adorable expressions! You look great Jen, and I love hearing your thoughts and am so glad Kent was able to be home a lot! I totally hear you on wanting to get out and the joy of having visitors!!! LOVE YOU:) - Jen Goeking:)Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-27299078568327159992012-07-31T22:26:32.667-05:002012-07-31T22:26:32.667-05:00You all are doing great! Time does seem to spiral ...You all are doing great! Time does seem to spiral in a vortex until they start sleeping through the night. Her evening fussy period is super normal. Expect it to balance out starting at 6 weeks and getting better from there. Expose her to lots of light during the day to help regulate her circadian rhythms - even if she's sleeping :) Beautiful baby! I've been facebook stalking you through your pregnancy and delivery. I'm SUPER impressed that you blogged in the first 6 weeks. Give yourself freedom to rest while it's like this - it won't always be like this!Rachaelhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11751587472805202777noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-73104358947697752032012-07-17T22:30:07.651-05:002012-07-17T22:30:07.651-05:00loved reading your story! kennedy is beautiful! i...loved reading your story! kennedy is beautiful! i just wish i could meet her now :( so happy for you sweet friend!cari dianahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00695383430430490964noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-86758337763171502222012-07-17T20:17:52.507-05:002012-07-17T20:17:52.507-05:00Great story Jenni! So excited that you and baby a...Great story Jenni! So excited that you and baby are healthy and at home!Elizabethhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11098942715001080482noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-69114080410994244032012-07-17T12:58:10.334-05:002012-07-17T12:58:10.334-05:00She's so very precious and I love that outfit ...She's so very precious and I love that outfit in the last pic of her :).<br /><br />HUGS!Kandrahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11208786326468661616noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-546033613264935019.post-49179552029344500662012-05-12T21:22:16.432-05:002012-05-12T21:22:16.432-05:00Looking good! :) So excited to meet Ms. Kennedy.Looking good! :) So excited to meet Ms. Kennedy.Merrihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16924519385696059599noreply@blogger.com