The Svoboda Family

and then there were 4...

2012-01-19T12:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, I have been an absent blogger for 7 weeks now...but for good reason! Calvin Graeme arrived on December 9, 2011 @ 12:34pm! 8lbs 13oz 21inches long! I could not have been more thrilled with how my labor and delivery went...
Quick Birth Story:
We arrived at the hospital at 5:30am and started getting registered. Even though I took the time in the previous weeks to register at the hospital, it still took them about 45 minutes to get me back into a room. At this point I was actually experiencing contractions on my own. As soon as I got back there they didn't hesitate to tell me to take all my clothes off and put that nasty hospital gown on. You know, the one thats completely open in the back so everyone can see your business.
So, monitors got hooked up, blood was drawn, blood-pressure taken, and baby monitor was strapped on. I was ready to have that baby(physically, not emotionally).
First things first, I wanted my epidural!! It just so happened that Calvin was born on a full moon--which means that there was 13 other woman in labor at the same time I was. After hearing that, I immediately requested my epidural to be delivered asap. Pain was not something I wanted to endure with this child. I wanted everything to be joyful and pain-free. (FYI-5 more babies were born that night...crazy)
Epidural is flowing--soon followed by nausea. Thankfully the nurse was right next to me and turned me on my side before any vomit was omitted. (BTW--I LOVED my nurse.) So, what's next? We waited...and waited...and waited for what seemed like for-ev-er! It was actually only about 3 hours.
When I went in to be induced I was at 5cm. The Dr. informed me that I would have gone into labor that day whether I wanted to or not. That was comforting. By the time noon rolled around I was at 10cm and ready to push! This was the stressful part. It wasn't that it was painful or even hard to push that baby out--it was the thought of what comes after that. This was the moment that my whole world was going to be turned upside down. Up to this point life has seemed easy-peasy with just one child. Now we are going to throw another child into the mix. What did this mean for us? What was life going to be like as a mother of two or a family of four? It was too late to think about all that now--this child was coming whether I liked it or not! 34 minutes later we met our sweet baby boy, Calvin Graeme! He couldn't have looked more like Matt and Caleb--and that couldn't have made me happier!
So, here we are...6 weeks later. The Lord has truly blessed us and has shown me grace. I have been able to stay sane through this time and have REALLY enjoyed life at home with my 3 boys! Im not saying I'm not sleep deprived, my house isn't dirty or that I shower everyday:)...BUT, I see joy in each new day and know that this season in our lives will pass so quickly...
So what's next on our list of to-do's? ...HOUSE HUNTING! --we'll keep you posted:)

39 weeks...

2011-12-04T12:32:00.000-08:00

We'll be heading to the hospital at 5am on Friday to be induced--unless Calvin decides to come before that!

Photo Wall

2011-12-03T11:50:00.000-08:00

This was my first time doing a photo wall. I actually laid it out and measured before hammering nails in the wall(something new for me)! I think it turned out great:)

Four Year Anniversary

2011-12-02T14:02:00.001-08:00

We were able to enjoy an evening out for our four year anniversary thanks to the Howertons:) We went to Saffire(which was delish) and then for some ice cream!

I sure do love my hubby!!

38 Weeks...

2011-11-28T18:18:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I'm at 38 weeks! Time has sure flown by. At my last doctors appt I was put on bed rest because my blood pressure was elevated. I am going a bit crazy but know that it is for the best that I rest a lot during this time. I have a BP check on thurs morning and a regular check on friday morning. Can't wait to meet you, baby Calvin! (but don't come too soon;)

37 Weeks and counting...

2011-11-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

Only 2 weeks & 5 days until we get to meet Calvin Graeme!! Our induction date is set for December 9th. We are choosing an induction because we have family coming in town from Nebraska and want to be sure that they are able to meet Calvin. I know there are a lot of opinions about inductions--so please be gracious if you choose to share yours:) I am currently 1cm and 60% effaced. Just patiently waiting...

p.s. Is it weird that I smiled for the 2nd picture? lol

36 Weeks

2011-11-13T17:50:00.000-08:00

Not sure why these are so blurry--but here is 36 weeks:) Induction date is set for December 9th!

35 Weeks

2011-11-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

My One-Eyed-Monster

2011-11-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

Belly so far...

2011-10-02T15:17:00.001-07:00

9.5 weeks...

13 weeks...

17 weeks...

19 weeks...

21 weeks...

26.5 weeks...

HG--I'm about 28 weeks, Tasha is 33 or 34 weeks and Heather is 38 weeks:)

28 weeks...

29.5 weeks...

I have located my camera cord!

2011-10-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

Well we are in Tennessee and have pretty much settled in! It has been amazing getting to know all of the great families and individuals at The Bridge but we still have sooo many that we want to get together with! Matt is REALLY enjoying his role in the ministry and I am loving staying at home with Caleb. I started watching one other little girl in August for some extra income and its been going great. She is Caleb's age so he has a friend around to play with all day:) I am now almost 30 weeks along and feeling more and more tired! I think I'm ready for December to get here so we can meet little Calvin! Here are a few pictures of the apartment/townhouse(can't WAIT to find a permanent home here in SH)...

Just to update you...

2011-06-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

As most of you know already, we officially become Tennesseans in 6 days! This is still crazy to us and has happened completely by surprise and incredibly fast but we are SO excited!! Matt received a call from The Bridge church in Spring Hill, TN a little over a month ago offering him the position of 'Pastor of Membership and Mission'. The Bridge is a semi-new church plant that has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years. Matt interviewed there a while back and they decided to keep his resume on hand in case a position opened related to his ministry gifts. That is why we were so surprised when they called us to offer the job!
Since we found out so far in advance we have been able to give our jobs, friends and family good notice of our departure. I am NOT going to lie--I have had a pretty hard time coming to the realization that we are actually leaving Kearney in 5 days. Lots of tears have been shed and lots of 'Lord give me strength' prayers have been said. We were able to find a 3 bedroom townhouse(site unseen) to rent. I am a bit obsessed with DIY blogs, so I am excited to try out some new decorating ideas!
I think one of the hardest things about moving so far away is leaving the family that we have here. Right now Caleb goes to my mother-in-laws for daycare everyday which I think will be one of the biggest adjustments for him. He LOVES his grandparents and they love him equally as much! Putting him into a larger daycare with people he his unfamiliar with is going to be very very difficult...(prayers are much appreciated)
I know that the Lord is in all of this. His timing is so perfect and his faithfulness to me throughout my life calms my nerves. He knows exactly what he is doing and will have His hand through this entire transition in our lives. He has always been faithful to reveal his plans to us even though we are at times unfaithful to listen! I am thankful for my husband who is eager to accept the calling of ministering to others! We cannot wait to meet our new church family! 5 days and counting...

P.S. I will be updating this blog A LOT more frequently so that our midwestern friends and family will have an idea of whats going on in our new lives. (and...GO BIG RED)

Big Boy Bed!

2011-05-14T10:06:00.000-07:00

We purchased Calebs twin bed last night and put all of his bedding on it! He LOVES it--to say the least:) When my parents were in town they bought Caleb some dino bedding(which he thinks is so cool) We decided not to put the bed on the bed frame yet, just in case he falls out!! But so far so good! He did great last night and has been talking about his big boy bed allll day!

Easter Sunday and 10 weeks!

2011-05-14T07:22:00.001-07:00

Easter Sunday! I actually made Easter dinner this year and it was delicious:)

First belly picture at 10 weeks! (sorry it's a little dark)

Calebs First Real Haircut!

2011-02-09T16:54:00.001-08:00

I usually cut Calebs hair, which means he gets a buzz cut(and he screams the whole time). So I decided to take him to Matts haircut lady! Needless to say, we wont be doing THAT again! Every cut was traumatizing. But he does look quite handsome...if i do say so myself:)

Caleb and Daddy!

2011-02-09T16:50:00.000-08:00

Answered Prayers

2011-01-25T20:46:00.001-08:00

(I am going to take a moment to brag on my husband...)So, its safe to say that I freak out about money every now and then(all the time). Its not that we don't have money--its just that we have been putting Matt through school these first 3 years of marriage & its been a bit, well, stressful! So FINALLY(yay) I am proud to say that my husband is a college graduate! Although he begins his Masters Degree in the fall...it is safe to say that he is finally finished with the grunt of his school work! I am so happy to finally have sundays back with him. So without further ado..I give you, Matt Svoboda, Family and Community Consultant for Compass Nebraska! I am so proud of you!

Super Easy Breakfast Pie

2011-01-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

I have a subscription with e-mealz--and this was one of the meals for this week! Sooo easy and yummy!

Ingredients:
6 slices bacon
2 c frozen potatoes O'Brien
1 c cheddar cheese
6 large eggs, lightly beaten
(1/4 c milk, 1/2 t salt, 1/8 t pepper)

Instructions:
Microwave bacon according to package directions or until crispy. Spread potatoes in pie plate and microwave for 7 minutes uncovered. Set aside 1/2 of bacon and 1/2 of cheese. Combine remaining ingredients and pour over potato mixture. Cover and microwave on high 6 minutes. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon. Serves about 4.

YUM!

Here we are...

2011-01-19T12:30:00.000-08:00

February 5th marks 2 years in Kearney, NE! I cannot believe this--this is the longest that we have lived anywhere while being married. We were married in Pittsburgh, PA on 12/1/2007 and the next week packed up a U-Haul and moved to Louisville, KY where Matt was attending Boyce College. Five months later we found out that we were pregnant with our sweet little Caleb. Instead of staying in Louisville where we had no family, we decided to pack up a U-Haul and head to Kearney, NE on Feb 5th, 2009!! We have never been happier with where the Lord has placed us! Immediately he opened the door to life long friendships and the ability for me to grow close with my mother-in-law(whom I rarely spoke with before moving here) Now we find ourselves asking the question-'Where do we go from here?'! So that is what we are praying about... Matt will start seminary in the fall, so we are praying about the best online program for him. We are also praying about what type of church leadership for Matt to dive into and a new job opportunity for him around Kearney. Please keep us in your prayers as we enter this next chapter in our lives!! We'll be sure to keep you updated!

P90x Update!

2011-01-16T20:55:00.000-08:00

Well I have taken a little while off, but just started back up 2 nights ago. I am now down to 138 lbs! woo hoo! Now onto my next goal which is 129! haha! (we'll see how that goes)

two.

2011-01-14T16:47:00.000-08:00

My baby turned two on saturday 1/8/11! I can hardly believe he is two! We went to his 2 yr check up on wednesday and he is 34 3/4 inches tall (50% percentile) and weighs 31 lbs (75% percentile). Such a big boy! Here are some pictures of Caleb on his birthday!

It's Christmas Card Season, again!

2010-12-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

Alright people...Our Christmas cards are going to be a little bit different this year! Since Shutterfly is giving away 50 free Christmas cards to bloggers, I thought I would jump in on the promo! Last year I literally wrote on every christmas card and it was not a lot of fun. SO we recently got our family pictures done, and i thought what a great opportunity to display them on a cute photo card. Christmas just seems to be coming so fast and I don’t have a lot of time to put into each card this year! You can click here to find out more on how to get your 50 free cards. Caleb is getting so big and I don’t seem to have the time that I used to with keeping up on pictures for the blog! So this way, you will be able to hang us on your fridge and look at us ALL year long☺ Aren’t you excited? Its hard looking through all of the cute designs knowing that I can only pick one but here are a few of my favorites from shutterfly…

We are super excited that it is not snowing yet in good ole Nebraska and hope that winter will stay on the east coast this season!! I hope everyone has a wonderful Chrismas season and that you enjoy our Christmas cards this year! The Lord has been so good to my family and Im excited to celebrate Him this season!

Pictures!

2010-12-06T20:04:00.001-08:00

When we visited New Mexico we had some family pictures taken! Here are a few of my favorites! ...and an update on the workout--i took 3 weeks off, during the holidays(AH!) but am now down to 140 and started on week 8 tonight! Only 5 weeks left!

Brie Cheese Appetizer!

2010-12-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

Here is the recipe that I used for my brie appetizer! It is from allrecipes.com. I did change a few things (like the preservatives...I used red raspberry instead of apricot and didnt use the egg white.)

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) wheel Brie cheese
3 tablespoons apricot preserves
1/2 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg white
Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a cookie sheet.
Slice one wheel of Brie cheese in half so you have 2 circles of cheese. Spread apricot or peach preserves on (the cut side) half of one circle of brie. Make sandwich out of the two halves of Brie, so that the preserves are in the center of both halves. Wrap the entire wheel of Brie with one sheet of puffed pastry and flip the entire concoction onto the prepared cooking sheet so the seam is on bottom. Brush the puffed pastry with the egg white.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the pastry in golden brown. Serve immediately.

I served with wheat thins...yum! enjoy!

P90X Update!

2010-11-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

Well I know its been longer than a month, but I actually started the program over. I began by doing the 'Lean' version and didn't really like it, so I started over by doing the 'Classic' version. Anyways, here is a weight update. I started at 148 and am now down to 142! woohoo! I am really enjoying the fact that I can work out at home and love seeing the results! I will most likely not update with pictures until the very end--and at that time I will post the before and after pictures!

P90X

2010-10-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

Well, here it goes people! We have begun P90X. We started about 2 weeks ago and its been pretty intense! Im posting this mainly so I have some motivation! When I first found out that I was pregnant with Caleb I weighed 134-135. I now weigh(2 weeks ago) 148. After 1.5-2 weeks of doing this workout, I am down to 144-145. My goal weight is 130--so i have 14lbs to go. This goal weight comes from my height--I am 5'4 and the healthy weight for a 5'4 female is between 116 and 145. So I would be right in the middle. Of course, it would be nice to continue if I so choose, but my main reason for losing this weight is to 1. glorify the Lord by being healthier with my lifestyle of eating/exercising and 2. to plan to have another child. I hope to work really hard over these next few months and will update my blog about my progress!

Bargain!

2010-09-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

So I have been waiting for months for these pillows to go on sale because I thought they would look great with our decor. So friday I went to Target during my lunch break to pick up that cute little 'remote holder' and wasnt even going to bother looking at the pillows (because I had just checked a few days earlier and they were still only 30% off). Anyways, so im headed to check out and sitting on top of one of the little girls clothing racks are MY PILLOWS! So I was like, well i HAVE to go check the price now. Low and behold they were on super sale. I got 2 of the big pillows for $6.74 each (they retail at $24.99) and 2 of the small blue ones for $3.74 each (retail: $15.99)! I was SO excited!!! I also bought that cute little remote holder (not on sale) for 8.99! All in all, i got those pillows for less than $23. Can we say BARGAIN? Also, kind of pictured, is my new rug! i know, rug on rug...but our apartment carpet is gross, so I needed something to make it look pretty. The carpet was purchased at target for $64 (retail $129.99)! Side note: I apologize for my dirty looking TV stand...I cant seem to keep those little Caleb fingers off of it.

Sneak Peek!

2010-09-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

Family Pictures!

2010-09-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

Today we had family photos taken, courtesy of Sarah Hille!! Will post them soon!

GO BIG RED

2010-09-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

If you know anything about my husband, you know that he LOVES the Nebraska Huskers! He had the chance this weekend to go to the game--He also had the chance to take his brother, Loren, with him! We hardly ever get to see Loren and Nadalee so it was nice to have them in town for a short visit! Loren went to the game with Matt while Nadalee, Marie and I were able to have a girls day! We went to 'Going the Distance'(which was not that great of a movie), got pedicures and rented some movies for the night! All in all it was a lot of fun! Later, when I get some pictures loaded, Ill tell you what we did on Monday! Heres some pics from Saturday!

Quick Update

2010-08-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

Life is good in the Svoboda house! We're getting settled into our new church family and enjoying the time that we are spending here in Kearney. Matt is loving the life of a pastor and is enjoying every moment of teaching, preaching and discipling. I am working part time at a dentist office and really enjoying it! I have recently joined a women's bible study and am learning A LOT:) I had been praying for awhile about wanting to fellowship and worship alongside women and the Lord has graciously answered my prayers! Caleb is 20 months old and I can hardly believe it!! He tries to repeat everything that we say and it is the cutest thing ever! I am trying to cut shopping habits and be a bit more FRUGAL! Matt is enjoying the golf season and is going to enjoy his first Husker game of the season on Sept 4th. We get family picture done on Sept 11th by Free Range Photography ! Cant wait!!
Here is a picture of the pretty roses that Matt sent me! (love him)

Here is a cute pic of my son with his awesome shoes on that Nana bought him!!

Refinished Dressers...

2010-07-24T19:17:00.001-07:00

The finished product!! (still missing a knob)

after!

Before...

Finally Some Pictures...

2010-07-24T16:56:00.001-07:00

Caleb doesnt like help when he's eating:) can you tell?!

What a big helper! (Go Big Red)

Daddy and Caleb

Mommy and Caleb

Getting ready to head to church to hear Matt preach!

Caleb w/ my 3D glasses on!

My sweet baby!

Hope you've enjoyed the pictures! I haven't been able to find my camera cord until TODAY! yay! and it was by fluke that I found it too! I looked everywhere--and finally today when I was cleaning, I found it buried in Caleb's closet! Imagine that! Anyways...I started my new job this week at the Dentist office and LOVE it! I have really enjoyed getting to know everyone there and learn how to do my job! Matt starts Aug 8th at the church and we cannot wait! The Lord is truly blessing our time here in Kearney!

Where has the time gone?!

2010-07-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I havent blogged since April 12th!

My bad:)So how about an update?!: We are doing GREAT! We have really settled into our new place but are currently looking for a place that is a bit bigger. Right now we have a 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment that we LOVE but would like a place with 3-4 bedrooms so that Matt can have an office and so that we will be able to grow into it when our family grows! Matt is still at Youth for Christ and has recently taken a position at a local church. He will be the Associate Pastor starting in August and move into the Senior Pastor position begininng in January! We are so excited about this because we feel as though the Lord is really revealing to us the reason that He brought us to Kearney! I am still at the Ramada but only for a little bit longer. My last day here will be July 16th! I just took a job at Kearney Dental Clinic for the Front Office position. This is a part time job with no nights or weekends! yay! I am so excited to have more time to invest in my family, home, and church! The Lord really had perfect timing with this job:)

Caleb is doing so good! He grows a little bit everyday:) He is talking a lot more now and LOVES eating freeze pops! Marie(my mother-in-law) is watching Caleb and 2 other little boys in her home and it is wonderful! He absolutely LOVES going to grandmas everyday! He was very sick recently with a fever of 105 for about 4 days. Thankfully the doctors took great care of him and he is back to his crazy self! He will soon be turning 18 months old and I can hardly believe it! Maybe its time for another one:)
God has been sooo good to us and is so faithful to show us his provision! I am thankful for a Godly husband to lead our family and Godly parents that taught me how to follow the Lord. I pray that Caleb will grow up to be a man that is deeply in love with his Lord and Savior. Here's a picture of our little man...

2010-04-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday our small group celebrated its one year anniversary together! It was so much fun to be able to fellowship with a group of close friends that we have come to love and cherish! We ended up having a cookout and were just able to hangout and chat! It was the first time that all of the children have been together since Noah and Kinley have been born! Although most of them were upset, including Caleb, they are still great pictures! I think its going to be so cool to see these childen grow up together and hopefuly become close friends!

Oh, Happy Day!

2010-04-05T06:37:00.000-07:00

This weekend was so great! Not only were we able to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus, but we were able to spend some great family time together. The weather was amazing yesterday and Caleb was able to spend a lot of time outside. Grandpa helped him dig in the dirt, he went for a bike ride with Grandma, and the three of us(matt, caleb and I) went for a nice long walk when we returned home from Easter dinner. I cannot express in words how much I love my family. I am so thankful for what the Lord has blessed me with! As we were walking, we talked about how the Lord continues to reveal to us, in small portions, the plans that he has for our future. Last year at this time we were really in the dumps and lonely, as we had just moved to Kearney a month earlier. The week after Easter the Lord brought together our small group, that are now, some of our closest friends. God is so good!

Matt recently accepted a postition as Executive Director for Youth for Christ out of Holdrege, NE. He's in his second week, and so far, so good! I think we are both just really excited that he finally has a job in the ministry! This is also a job that will help to equip us for church planting! I just recently accepted the Assistant Manager position at the Ramada...and so far, its been ok! Im not too keen on working and would rather be home--But it is going to be wonderful to be able to pay down our student loans faster! Marie, my mother-in-law has decided to stay home and watch children, starting in May--which means Caleb will be with her while we are both working! This has been an answer to prayer, because I didnt want to put him in a daycare where I didnt know the person who was watching him. Caleb is now almost 15 months old and is hilarious! He has starting saying a few things, one of which is 'Hi Kitty'! So funny! He loves playing outside, and going for walks in his stroller! He also loves sweets, just like his mom! But, dont worry, he rarely gets them:)

Well, thats all for now! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! Here are some pics of the fam on Easter!

WHAT?!?

2010-04-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

Our friend Josh Howerton is the paster of The Bridge in Spring Hill, TN. Although I don't go to the site much, I came across this post today...

Easter is a pagan fertility holiday.
The term “Easter” was derived sometime before the year 900AD from the Anglo-Saxon pagan goddess “Eostre”. Eostre was a goddess of fertility who was said to visit the earth each Spring in the form of a hare (Easter bunnies are “hares”, not “rabbits”!) who annually birthed a fertility egg that went into the ground, causing the earth’s “fertility” that gave rise to the growth of the spring season. Hares and eggs have been symbols of fertility in paganism for millennia.
As is the case with many holidays, as Anglo-Saxons converted to Christianity they redeemed their celebrations, replacing pagan practices with Christian ones but sometimes retaining forms and customs from old rituals. This is how we came to celebrate the resurrection of Christ on a holiday called “Easter”, dyed eggs began to represent the spilt blood of Christ and a tomb, and the Easter Bunny became a holiday “mascot” instead of a goddess-avatar.
But Eostra was a legend, nothing more, and every one of her followers’ bodies stayed in a grave.

Don't we all suffer with forgetting the real meaning of Easter?! They may not be the same; but easter egg hunting, candy, candy, more candy, dying eggs, easter baskets, wearing bright colors and big hats? Not to say that I don't participate--of course I love to dress Caleb up, eat lots of candy, and be sure that Matt and I are in our Sundays best. I mean, who doesn't?

But sometimes I need to sit back and think--Christ died for my sins, but would I be willing to die for the gospel? Christ was missional beyond my imagination, but am I willing to even share the gospel with my friends? Christ will never leave me nor forsake me, but do i sometimes leave and forsake him? I am constantly being drawn back to the cross because I have a Father who cares to continually watch over me and bring me back.

I just hope that I never forget what Christ has done for me. In the midst of prayer, he was betrayed and taken to be persecuted. His own friends turned their backs on him--strangers spit on him--He was nailed to the cross and put to death. and for WHAT?! For our sins...OUR sins! I am so thankful for his death, for a loving Savior, and for the resurrection. I am a sinner and deserve only hell, but my Lord is RISEN!

Jumping on the bed?!?! YES, PLEASE!

2010-04-01T10:56:00.001-07:00

I was changing the sheets on our bed the other day and Caleb took that as his cue to play on the bed! How could I refuse?! Needless to say, it took awhile to make the bed:)

Plaid Shorts Sunday!

2010-04-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

We are so happy that it is finally warm enought to wear shorts! Caleb is thoroughly enjoying being outside and HATES when we make him come back indoors! I predict that we are going to have a GREAT summer!! Summer plans? We are headed to Louisville in May--and New Mexico in August! ...and we plan on using our pool a WHOLE lot! Easter is coming up soon--so we'll be sure to post some pics of our family!

Love, Meredith(for the Svoboda's)

Growing Like a Weed...

2010-03-19T10:11:00.000-07:00

Book-End Review (Leota's Garden)

2010-03-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

Well, after spending countless nights, staying up waaay too late to finish this book...i have finally FINISHED!! I always feel so good after I finish a book--like I've accomplished something, ha! So, what did I think of the book?!? I loved it, of couse. Francine Rivers has a way of writing, that makes it feel like you are part of the story. And, I am not going to lie, I did shed a few tears. She also has a way of taking Christ and making him the center of the plot. It was a great book, and I recommend to everyone (esecially women); Im sure they would be more interested anyways. So, what is my next book?!?!...I have decided to read Transparent bySarah Zacharias Davis. I started reading this book in college and never quite got into it...so I am going to give it another try! I will let you know how it goes.

Francine Rivers!

2010-03-04T21:48:00.000-08:00

Okay, i need to stop for a moment to tell you how amazing Francine River's writing is. I started reading her books when Matt and I first got married. The book was Redeeming Love, and let me tell you---it was WONDErFUL! I have also read And the Shofar Blew, some of the Mark of the Lion series, the Scarlet Thread...etc. BUT this habit of reading can be a bit expensive. SO...i found myself at the Kearney Public Library! It was amazing, they have a bunch of her books that I haven't read, so I am super excited to take them, one at time (free of charge...yes!!) and read them. The first one I have checked out is Leota's Garden. My mom told me that this one is good, so i figured I would take a swing at it...seeing as I haven't read one that isn't good! Anyways, my advice to you, is... go to the library! I cant wait for Caleb to get a little bit older, so that he can enjoy it as much as i did!

2010-03-02T17:30:00.001-08:00

"Create in me a clean heart, O God,and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence,and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation,and uphold me with a willing spirit." Psalm 51: 10-12

Well, although it would be nice sometimes, time does not stand still! Caleb is getting so big...he is now 13 months old and is CRAZY! Sometimes, I feel like a bad mom, because my son sins. yes, i said it...he is a little SINNER! I get so frustrated with the fact that he doesnt 'listen' sometimes and he gets into everything. Then I say to myself...welcome to motherhood. I recieved an email this week, amidst my frustration, from babycenter.com. I have recieved emails from them ever since I found out I was pregnant! It has been wonderful to find out how my child is developing. And, alas...here is the email I recieved this week:

"Spirited and mild-mannered toddlers alike will experiment with...how shall we say it?...undesirable behavior. If your toddler indulges in fits of screaming, hitting, and biting, you can take some solace in knowing that his developement is right on track."

Thank goodness! haha...just kidding! Caleb is NOT all bad--he is in fact, a boy! He just gets more and more curious as he days go on. I love watching him entertain himself--and his new thing, pointing & waving at everything!

The verse at the top of the page was part of my bible reading this morning. And might I just add that I have been horrible at reading my bible! Thankfully I have an amazing husband who helps to reveal this to me, and encouraged me to get back on track. So as I sit here and call my son a sinner...I too am a sinner, but am thankful for a gracious Lord who loves me, and continually calls me back to the foot of the cross.

Colorado/Caleb turns ONE!

2010-01-16T14:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from our trip to Colorado and some of Calebs birthday cake!

Calebs baby cake!

First birthday cake:)

Traveling home on his birthday!

in the cabin

We had lunch on top of the mountain! very cool

Us at the restaurant!

PICTURES!

2010-01-16T14:13:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pictures of the new apartment! Caleb is sleeping so I will have to post pictures of his room later!

New Duvet! Love it:)

Kitchen

Matt's 'Nook'

Dining Room Area

Living Room!

A New Home...

2010-01-13T13:30:00.000-08:00

As I thought about writing this blog--I was tempted to title it ' A New Home...for now'--And as i continued to think about that title, i became very discouraged. The thought of packing and unpacking all of those boxes again was devastating. We have moved so much in the short time that we have been married (i.e. Pittsburgh to Louisville, once while in Louisville, then Louisville to Kearney, and once while in Kearney). A grand total of 4 times in 2 years. As I look back, I see the Lords hand in all of those moves, and with each move, He has strengthed our walk with him and our relationship as husband and wife.

So why am I complaining?!?! Well, that is a good question! I have no reason to complain--I live in a beautiful apartment, with a God-fearing husband, and a crazy one-year-old son! i absolutely love my home and have thoroughly enjoyed decorating it!(will post pictures later).

What I have realized though is that, yes, I am ALWAYS in a temporary home; seeing as my true home will be with Christ. But that while I am here, I should be seeking the Lords guidance for WHY he has us here in the first place. Who would have ever thought that we would live in Kearney Nebraska--but we are here and we are loving it. So my prayer is--Use me where I am and then send me where you need us next!!(wherever that may be:)

-I am excited to see what is in store for us!

Caleb Update: Caleb is a ONE YEAR OLD! We still cant believe it! He started walking on 12/25/09! We gave him a mohawk for his birthday(he looks adorable). He is offically going to bed without a bottle and is not eating 'baby food' anymore. He can say a few words, (i.e.mama, dada, oh wow, ok, and uh-oh) He LOVES dancing and listening to music--and he is getting into EVERYTHING! We just cant seem to get enough of him:) He is such a little blessing!

Love, Meredith for 'The Svoboda's'

New Furniture

2009-11-24T14:12:00.000-08:00

This is the new couch and chair set that we bought:) cant wait to use it!

Caleb Discovers Toilet Paper!

2009-11-03T07:26:00.000-08:00

The Cutest Little Dragon!

2009-11-03T07:22:00.000-08:00

Pre-Halloween!

2009-10-30T21:48:00.001-07:00

Thanks Nana and Papa for the cute Halloween attire!

Will post pictures of his costume in the next couple of days!

Laundry Time

2009-10-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

Calebs Sweet Moves!

2009-10-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

How big is Caleb?

2009-10-01T15:23:00.001-07:00

Crawling

2009-09-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

8 Months:)

2009-09-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well, Caleb is officially 8 months olds, and I cannot believe it! He is beginning to crawl now, and is starting to cut a tooth in his top gums! He is pulling up on the rails in his crib to stand up, but inevitably, cannot sit back down--which makes for some traumatic bedtimes! Needless to say, he is doing wonderful! He is such a blessing to our family:) Here are a few pics for you all, and I will post the video of him crawling soon!

Caleb 7 Months

2009-08-12T13:55:00.000-07:00

Caleb just had his 7 month pictures taken...so I thought I would share:)

My Pretty Toes!

2009-07-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks Marie for my birthday present:) We had a girls day with Erin today, and part of it was getting our nails done! I opted for a pedicure! The results are very pretty...

My Big 6 Month Old!

2009-07-11T20:11:00.001-07:00

My sweet baby boy just turned 6 months old on July 8th! I just cant believe it! On thursday I took him to his 6 month check-up and it went really well. He weighed 19 lbs 15oz and was 27 inches long. He is in the 90% for both height and weight--such a big boy! I found out that I am feeding him all the right things and can start feeding him more table food during the day! Right now Caleb is eating/drinking apple juice, cereal, fruit, veggies, and he just starting drinking yogurt juice(which he loves)... he can also start on single grain oatmeal soon(yumm)! Today was also a big day for Caleb-because---he cut his FIRST TOOTH! yay! He has been biting on everything and drooling like crazy--so today when we were out to eat, Grandpa Al stuck his finger in Caleb's mouth and was shocked that he bit down with a new tooth:) I tried to get a picture of it, but you cant really see it all that well! He is just so adorable and learning so many new things everyday! I am so thankful that I am able to stay home with him and watch him grow:) Im not sure how much longer that will last, as I am in search of a job...but Im still thankful for the time that I have had at home! I just love being a mother and cant wait to have more little Svoboda's running around! Thank you all for your prayers as we continue this journey of parenting and discipling our little boy to be a Godly man:) The Lord is so good!

I tried to get a picture but you cant really see the tooth...

I'll take a better one when it gets bigger!

Calebs New Do!

2009-06-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

This was hard to do...but necessary! Poor Caleb gets so hot during these summer days, so we decided to cut his hair:) He looks so adorable...but im sure that I didnt do a very good job, so Grandma Marie will have to fix it when she gets home!

Cutie

2009-06-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

Summer!

2009-06-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

Caleb trying to eat grass

Sweet Jordan

Al and Matt playing Bocce ball

Caleb's new shirt from the McDonalds:)

Before I was a Mom...

2009-06-26T20:42:00.000-07:00

A sweet new friend in my small group posted this on facebook, and I just loved it so much that I had to re-post it on my blog:) Enjoy; all you mom's out there!

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom .

Where We Live!

2009-06-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

This is what we call Home:)

Living Area

Calebs Area

Office Area(Matts new bookcases)

Bathroom

Bedroom

Long Time, No Blog

2009-06-18T21:15:00.001-07:00

I know youre all dying to know what's going on in the life of the Svoboda's...so I'm going to tell you! We'll start with Caleb (since he's the cutest). He is getting to big! He is rolling over, eating fruits and veggies and sitting up all by himself! We couldn't believe it...we got back from Chicago and he started sitting up on his own! It's very helpful because now he can entertain himself for a little bit longer! He's loves chewing on anything, especially your finger! He also loves looking at books and chewing on those also. He's a very content little boy and loves to smile and laugh! He is also VERY ticklish:) which is adorable! We go to the doctor next month, so i'll be sure to update you all on how much he's grown!

Matt and I are doing wonderful as well! We have recently been involved in a small group and it has been such a blessing to both of us! It is a young couples/family small group that meets each Sunday night--we are currently going through the Love Dare study--which has also been a blessing to us! I cannot tell you how many wonderful couples we have met and have started to build friendships with! It is just what we needed...we were starting to get a little lonesome for some friends, and the Lord showed us how faithful he is!

Matt is still working at Red Lobster and is serving now, which is less hours and better money! So of course we enjoy that! He is also going to start teaching a small group leaders bible study in July. He is so happy to start having some involvment with leadership in the church!

I am currently loving being a mother and also cleaning a bank in downtown Kearney for some extra cash(not much, though). I'm slowly, but surely looking for a job--but im not in a big rush!

We recently took a trip to Chicago for Zach and Jacki's wedding, and had such a great time! It was so nice to be able to see my family, and especially see my newest neice, Noelle! Although we had a wonderful time, it is great to be back home! I've been decorating more and giving it that homey feel! We got Matt some new bookcases for father's day...and they look wonderful! I'll have to post some pics soon!

Well, here are a few pics from our trip, and some of Caleb sitting up:)

HAPPY 28TH ANNIVERSARY!

2009-06-04T20:03:00.001-07:00

Breakfast:)

2009-06-04T20:00:00.001-07:00

Chatter Box

2009-06-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

UK Fan

2009-06-04T12:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks KK and Bobby for the cool outfit:)

Memorial Day

2009-06-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

Caleb Finds His Toes!!

2009-05-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

Tony's Graduation!

2009-05-19T09:08:00.001-07:00

My Baby! 4 Months!

2009-05-19T09:04:00.001-07:00

Sunday Pictures!

2009-05-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Rolly Polly

2009-05-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

Caleb Eats Cereal!

2009-05-09T15:03:00.001-07:00

Today was a big day for Mr. Caleb! First he rolled over 3 times...then he had his first try of cereal:) yay! Before I go into details about that, i'll update you on how the little man is doing! He turned 4 months yesterday and so we took him to the doctor. He is now weighing in at 17.3 lbs, 26 inches long! He is a VERY healthy boy! The doctor said everything looked great and that we could start him on some single grain cereal(this stuff looks gross, by the way:) He is just in the most fun stage...he is laughing and "talking" to us, and moving all over the place! He loves to grab onto things now--he is enjoying playing in his exersaucer, swinging in the swing and looking at the fan!! Caleb is sleeping 12 hours at night...sometimes longer, sometimes a little bit shorter--but all in all, he sleeps well! Which is great for us, so we can have some time to hang out in the evenings! Being a mom is just so rewarding, and I am loving every minute of it! Maybe one day we will have another, but for now, Caleb is keeping us very busy! Here is the video of his first taste of cereal! Thanks Jamey and Matt Click for the bib! It definitely came in handy:)

and here are a few more pictures of c-dub...

p.s. we love you all!

Little Guy

2009-04-22T11:02:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe how big he is getting:)

Oh Caleb!

2009-04-21T10:53:00.001-07:00

I just thought this was funny. This is how I found Caleb before i got him dressed for church on Sunday! What a silly goose:)

Happy Birthday!!!

2009-04-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

Well, as most of you don't know--tomorrow is Matt's birthday!! Yay! Birthdays are my favorite Holidays! (Especially when it's mine) I just love celebrating the gift of life that Christ so graciously gave to us! And tomorrow just happens to be the birthday of my favorite person!! He is an amazing husband and father, and I treasure every minute that I spend with him! This week has been especially difficult for me, because he has been gone--and he wont be returning until LATE tomorrow night! So I wont even be able to spend the day with him on his Special Day! But that's ok...because I usually celebrate birthdays for an entire week! or month!

So what do I love about this man?--Well here goes it:

1. He has a love for the Lord that I cannot explain--and a passion to continually learn and grow by studying, reading, praying, and listening/visiting with pastors and elders in the church.

2. He challenges me in my walk with Christ...every single day!

3. As much as he does not like to be wrong...and I mean he really does NOT like to be wrong--he always admits it when he is!

4. He's a total hottie!

5. He cuddles with me, even though he hates it:)

6. He's an amazing father to Caleb. I just love watching him play, talk, and laugh with our son! If you could have seen him in the ultrasound room when he found out we were having a little boy, you would have died laughing! It gave me a good picture of how excited he is to teach our son to be a man of God!

7. His desire to teach me is beyond words! Just when I think I couldn't possibly learn any more about a biblical, historic, sports, or political subjects--sure enough, there he is, teaching me!

8. He's always there to finish my meal:)

9. I could be soooo mad at him--and somehow, he manages to make me laugh!

10. His bedtime is very opposite of mine, meaning he enjoys going to bed a lot later--but low-and-behold--he always goes to bed with me because he knows how much it means to me! I'm not saying he actually goes to sleep at the same time...he's usually listening to a sermon, watching a show or reading! I'm just saying, he's there!

He's always there! and I cannot wait for him to get home tomorrow!

Happy Birthday Matt! Your the best Husband and Daddy! We Love You!

Talk to Us!!

2009-04-04T16:27:00.000-07:00

Me and Matt just signed up for Skype! Its so easy! If you have a webcam--go online to skype.com and download it for free! Then you can talk to us! Its great to keep in touch:) Our skype name is TheSvobodaFamily! Find us!

12 Weeks!

2009-04-02T13:45:00.001-07:00

Caleb Finds His Thumb!

2009-03-31T17:50:00.000-07:00

Caleb plays with his toys!

2009-03-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

Caleb just gets cuter and cuter everyday! Today, he started laughing while he had the hiccups! It was the most adorable thing I've ever seen! He is really starting to hold his head up and look around, and he is more independent--as in, I can set him down and he can amuse himself for awhile! He has also started playing with his little toys! The contraption below is this rocker/music maker thing with an arch of toys on it! Caleb loves to sit there and play with the little toys on it! The doctor said that this is the month that Caleb should start rolling over! I am SO excited...I just hope I can catch all of these things on video, especially the laughing and rolling over! Well...enjoy the picture! I hope to post some videos later this week!

Almost 11 Weeks!

2009-03-25T13:02:00.001-07:00

Caleb will be 11 weeks old this Thursday! What a big boy! He had a doctor's appointment today--He is now weighing in at 15lbs, and is 25 inches long! (He is such a little man!) Everything went great at the appointment...Caleb is a chunky, healthy baby! Although the clinic was big, we loved the Doctor, and the staff was all very nice!

We also had a chance to meet with the small groups Pastor. He has asked Matt and I to lead a young married couples small group--the study will begin on April 19th, and we'll be going through the Love Dare. We are both so happy to be getting involved, and are excited to meet some new families in the church! Keep us in your prayers as we begin this ministry:)

More Madness...

2009-03-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

March Madness

2009-03-22T13:27:00.001-07:00

My boys watching basketball together:) I sure do love them!

New Hair!

2009-03-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

My new mom-do! It makes life a little easier! By the way, Baby Caleb is 10 weeks old today:)

Some Smiles! Some Not!

2009-03-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T18:51:00.001-07:00

Mommy and Caleb!

2009-03-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

What a Big Boy!

2009-03-15T10:02:00.001-07:00

Caleb is getting so big!! He just turned 9 weeks old on March 12th! It is so exciting to watch him grow and learn on a daily basis! He is smiling more than ever now--we're just waiting for him to start chuckling! He loves his bath time and splashes around the whole time! I've been leaving him in there longer, so that he can get some serious splash time in:) Caleb loves taking walks and riding around in the car--It usually puts him to sleep! He's been a little bit more independent--laying on the floor for a little bit longer, and sitting in his bouncy chair--but he still likes to cuddle and be held! Yesterday I decided to see if his shoes fit him and THEY DID! For the first time, he was able to wear his big boy shoes!! I took some pics, because he looked so cute! Enjoy:)

Vote for Evangelical Village!

2009-03-13T17:41:00.000-07:00

Go Vote for Evangelical Village!!!!

This is my husbands blog!! So go to the link below and vote for him! NOW! :)

http://tinyurl.com/cpvjl6! Midwest Division: SBC Blog Madness 2009!!

Calebs Song

2009-03-10T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is the song that we sing with Caleb all the time! Just thought we would share it with you:)

8 Weeks!

2009-03-05T17:21:00.001-08:00

Caleb is growing so fast! We're already having to go through his clothes and put some away because they don't fit anymore! This is very sad! We're lucky that we've been having some nice weather, so today we put Caleb in his shorts outfit(that Im sure he'll grow out of by summer) and went for a walk! We had a lot of fun--and Caleb napped the whole time! Here are a few pics--the last one is Matt and Caleb's modeling pose!

I love Smiles:)

2009-03-03T16:34:00.000-08:00

Fast forward to about 1 minute into the video! He smiles for you:)

Caleb Smiles!

2009-03-03T09:29:00.001-08:00

To my Grandpa's

2009-03-03T09:25:00.000-08:00

Caleb has this adorable shirt, and I had to get some pictures of him in it before it gets too small! We sure do love our Grandpa's!

Pre-Bath time with Nana

2009-02-28T22:09:00.000-08:00

Sweet Baby

2009-02-28T21:54:00.000-08:00

We have really enjoyed getting to know Caleb over the past couple of months. He is on a really good schedule right now, eating every 3-4 hours and sleeping great at night. He is full of noises, which mostly consist of grunting! He has also started to coo at us which we love & he is smiling, which is our absolute FAVORITE! We will sit there forever with him, doing whatever we can to make him smile! The best thing, though, is when he smiles unexpectedly! Caleb LOVES his bath time! He takes a bath every night at 9:30, then its a bottle and off to bed! Im pretty sure he knows this routine, because he is just as calm as can be through the whole process and goes right to sleep after the bottle! We've learned that he likes to take walks and go for rides in his car seat! He automatically falls asleep when you do either of the two! It is so easy for us to take him out in public, because he is so good!

We are loving Nebraska, and are beginning to decorate our living quarters:) Me and Marie went to walmart tonight to buy paint, and I cant wait to get started! Ill have to take before and after pictures, so you can see the transformation! There are things that we miss about Louisville--our jobs, Buck Run, and our friends--but we are really getting used to it out here and really enjoy being around family! We have started going to the E-Free church here and are excited about getting involved!

Well, I need sleep--I hope to post more soon (Marie is taking over baby duty tonight, so I had some time to write) It's great being with Marie and Al!! They have been wonderful and such a big help to us!! But let us not forget ALL of our family--you have all been so wonderful and extremely helpful! I dont know what we would do without you all!

Love you:)

Caleb Grunts!

2009-02-24T17:57:00.000-08:00

Some of Caleb's grunting/talking! I'll have to post some more videos of this:)

Caleb

2009-02-21T10:01:00.001-08:00

Thanks Aunt Ashley and Aunt Lori for the cool apparel!! We love you:)