A Helpful Tool

Yes, the Baird Bunch is still here. I have let our blog sit on the back burner for quite a while. I apologize for the lack of posting, but cannot say I would do it differently. Our family's schedule is jam packed, so something had to go. At this time I am evaluating whether to take it down or continue. As I look back on the blog I see it as such a treasure. It was a helpful tool during such a difficult time for our family and many others. When my precious friend and sister in Christ, Jill was taken from us suddenly to be with her Savior, the blog was a way to share our grief and resources we used to cope. So many people were affected by Jill's life. I am thankful that Jonathan was able to use the blog in the wonderful way he did. He is truly gifted with words. I, on the other hand am not. I am not a writer, but really have a desire to be! I am just not sure a blog is a good way for me to practice. I hate to put others through my ramblings. :)

This year we have begun to teach our two oldest children at home in hopes to educate them classically. Since as their teacher, I have not been classically educated, I have a lot of work ahead of me. I am excited about getting to go back and pick up things I missed out on growing up, but I am intimidated at the task of teaching myself to think differently.

One of the passions Jill and I shared was for our home. We had many discussions about how we can best serve our husbands and our family by managing our home. I fail in so many ways in this area. It is a daily struggle to create an environment that is welcoming, comforting and safe for my family and my guests. One of Jill's goals was that her home would be a place where her guests couldn't help but think of God. That is my prayer!

Fun Kitchen Project with My Girls

This is an easy and fun recipe that I remember doing when I was a little girl. My girls and I tried it and had a wonderful time together cooking and eating!

Bird Nest Pizzas

Ingredients

1 can of biscuits (we used Great Value version of Pillsbury Grands)

your favorite pizza sauce

shredded mozzarella

your favorite toppings (Hormel makes mini pepperoni that worked great for us)

On a cookie sheet allow kiddos to smash and spread the biscuits to about 1/2 inch thickness. We didn't always get ours flattened out enough and they puffed up. Adults or older children can put a spoonful of pizza sauce in each biscuit, then add cheese and toppings. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-15 minutes. My girls loved making them and loved eating them. Hope your crew enjoys them too!

My future chefs! Piper kept trying to sneak a taste when my back was turned. :) She looks like she's up to something here doesn't she?

Remembering Jill and Offering a Great Resource

Today marks one year from a moment that our lives were forever changed. This has been the toughest year our family has ever been through. God has been merciful and has not dealt with us as we deserve. I feel so silly even mentioning our pain in light of Scott's.

The influence of Jill lives on in so many ways. There is a scholarship funded by the annual SOAR conference in her memory. There will soon be an endowed scholarship at our church in memory of her. The bookstore at our church bears her image as a disciple-maker. Our hearts have been indelibly affected by her dedication to Jesus Christ, her husband, her child and her church.

Please remember, this day and every other, her faith and let that be an encouragement and challenge to you. More than that let her, like a ray of light, lead you back to the Sun which was (and is!) the source of her light.

One book that helped her and many others is "Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist." I believe that I recommended this book in the days following the tragedy, but today you can get this book in audio format for free here . Be sure and follow the instructions as you add it to your cart and put in the coupon code NOV2009. Check out this site every month for a free downloadable resource.

Adjusting to Life with Three

Just a short note to say we are still here! :) Things have just been a little bit crazy since our last post. Adjusting to life with three has been a fun adventure. I hope to be back on the blogging wagon soon. Until then, here is a video of our little man. He is such a wonderful blessing and sweet addition to our home. Enjoy!

Haddon at 8 weeks

Haddon at 17 weeks

The Girls Meet Haddon

 

 

 

 

Some pictures of Haddon Jonathan

 

 

Haddon meets his Maimee!

 

 

Mama's little man

Our Day at the Park Before Haddon's Arrival

Here are some shots from Tuesday. Jonathan took off from work to spend time with us girls before the baby came. We played at the park and then had a picnic. We had the girls' favorite...Chicken McNuggets from McDonald's! Yum!

 

 

 

Mama's Turn at the Camera

Daddy's fingers needed a rest from all the texting, emailing, facebooking and picture taking. We are resting at home waiting on the girls to come home. Jonathan woke up as I was taking the picture, but I was trying to get him back for the picture he took of me during my nap. :) Notice Haddon's hands are up in surrender to some much needed sleep. 

 

Just got discharged. On our way home!

Mama and Haddon Taking a Much Deserved Nap

Haven't been able to write much the last 24 hours, but just wanted to give a quick update.

Emily is doing really well, just ready to go home. Her doctor hasn't come yet, but we expect her soon.

Haddon has had his hearing screen and got the snippy snip this morning. They will do the PKU test after 11.

Hopefully we will be home in time for lunch.

Thanks to everyone for the presents, visits and well wishing(s).