Chap Chicks

City of Oaks Half-Marathon

2011-12-30T20:17:00.003-05:00

After a 3 year hiatus, I am back to blogging. I'll get back to the girls after a couple posts, but here is one about running my first half-marathon.

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I couldn’t believe the race was finally here...13.1 miles. I had been preparing for 10 months for this, and now the moment was upon me. I had some questions and doubts, but mostly, I was excited…butterflies in my stomach wanting to jump out and get this thing started. I have heard that when running your first half (or full) marathon, your goal should be finishing. Period. Not finishing in a certain time, just finishing. Well, anyone that knows me, knows that wasn’t going to be good enough. Of course I had to set a goal…I set out to finish this race in “under 2 ½ hours”.

The day before the race, I (finally) made my music mix. It contained most of the songs from my 5k mix, but of course I needed a lot more songs – 4 times as many! As it always had been, music would be crucial to my success in running the race. I then received a call from my friend, Candace. An experienced runner, Candace would not be running City of Oaks this year, but said she would be at the water station at mile 9, and would run with me for a while, if I wanted her to. Of course, I said yes, thinking that I would need some encouragement at that point. I agonize a little more about my attire for the race…more layers, less layers? shorts or capri length? If I wear the shorts, I’ll have an extra pocket… Do I take my phone along in my pocket? My inhaler?

November 6, 2011. I didn’t sleep well enough, but I was up by 5:15 AM, and on my way to arrive at Mary Jane’s at 6 AM. My friend Mary Jane and her mom were going to walk/ run the half marathon. Our friend Tricia met us early to follow behind us and start the race together. Tricia had just completed the Boston half marathon a few weeks earlier. As we drove toward downtown Raleigh, 2 thoughts were on my mind – one, I wouldn’t run on-pace with either of these friends, but I fell somewhere in the middle. Second, I felt incredibly blessed by these friends (and my extended Lynn Rd. family) as I would have never known either of them if we had not transferred to Lynn Rd. Elementary. See, Tricia was the 1^st grade teacher for mine and Mary Jane’s oldests…I am so thankful to have them as friends, and supporters in this race. We arrive and park at Cameron Village. We walk the short distance to the starting line at the NC State Bell Tower. Along the way, we make the necessary stop at the long line of port-a-johns. It is interesting to note the range of attire amongst the runners, and I am willing to bet that I was not the only one agonizing the night before. Everything from long pants and fleece jackets to shorts and tanks tops was seen, as well as a few that added some embellishments, such as pink tutus and a couple in matching “Where’s Waldo?” hats and shirts. As we approach the starting line, Tricia and I say our “good-byes” and “good lucks!” to Mary Jane and her mom. They head toward the back of the crowd, and I stay near the front with Tricia. I know I won’t be able to keep up with her but I figure that it will be nice to start together.

A few minutes later, we’re off. GO! Within about 55 seconds, Tricia fades into the crowds and I lose sight of her. I continue down Hillsborough St., and turn onto Ashe. I quickly realize that I have started too near the front, as runners whizz by me. But, I don’t care. My music energizes me, and I see friends, Ben and Kelty up ahead. They live 2 houses off Ashe, and have come out with their baby in a sling, to cheer on the runners. I spot Ben first, in his camo uniform, and then Kelty and Henry. I wave and keep going.

Candace had helped me with my training plan, and so I asked about the strategy for running the half…how often should I stop and walk (I obviously can’t run the entire 13 miles, right??) She says to walk through the water breaks. Okay. I can do that. Water breaks are about every 2 miles. So, I have gotten to about 1.5 miles, and I am burning up! I strip off my long sleeve layer and throw it on the side of the road (per my runner friends, this is what you do). I still feel hesitant, and since there is a cop watching nearby, I wait to chuck my shirt a little further down Western Blvd. First water break is right around the corner and I am feeling good.

I continue the run up a slight hill, through Boylan Heights and into downtown. It’s a beautiful day outside, and I feel alive. After completing a little over 3 miles, I notice the “2:15” pace group pass me. I was little surprised that I had been running faster than “2:15” up until this point, but also encouraged about my goal of “2:30”. I was on track. Miles 4 and 5 passed by uneventfully. About mile marker 5, one of Rob’s co-workers, Karen, was volunteering and cheering runners on. It was encouraging to hear someone cheer me on by name. Now I faced the big hill, up Glenwood Ave. (well, it looked big at the time). Good music kept me pumped up, and when I reached the top, and turned onto Peace, I realized the incline was not leveling off just yet. Almost as if on cue, “Eye of the Tiger” came on the iPod. I could do anything at this point. I kept going towards Cameron Village, knowing that I would see Rob and the girls, cheering me on, soon. As I approached, I kept searching and searching. Where were they? The 10k finish line was to the left, so maybe they’d be on the right. No, still not there. Okay, water break…I’ll walk through this and then find them. I just started running again when I saw them up on the right. Rob runs out beside me for a minute, takes some pictures, and runs back to the sidewalk. I turn back to look at the girls…they are blowing kisses and I blow some back. Yay! My family is there. I will see them at the finish line.

The next 2 miles are probably the hardest of the course. Still a bit hilly, and I am getting tired. I don’t know if I can make it to the next water station before a walking break. I decide to walk for about 30 seconds before starting again. Weird thing is that my hips hurt more on the restart. Maybe stopping and starting is not a good thing. Up ahead I see what I *think* is mile 9 water station. Yay! Candace will be there. I search and search, but I don’t see her. I keep running, and after I pass the table, I realize that not only was Candace not there, but I forgot to get water. Shoot! I am now heading down Hillsborough St., under the 440 beltline, with nothing ahead but boring terrain. I approach mile 9, feeling a bit defeated and hips starting to feel quite sore. I slow down to a slight jog, and then see 2 people literally BOUNDING across the median from the other side of the road, waving their arms. It’s Candace and another good friend, Christine. Hallelujah! Just the encouragement I needed. They quickly come along side me and start running. I told them I missed water the last time (which was mile 8.5) and Candace grabs some for me at the next station (mile 9.5). We run to the turn-around at the fairgrounds and start heading back down Hillsborough.

At this point, I have turned my iPod volume down a bit. Christine’s chatter is a good distraction from the hip pain and how much further I have to go. Mile 10. Okay, a 5k left – I can do this. Candace is paying attention to my breathing, encouraging me to take deeper breaths and telling me to breath slower every few breaths. We continue like this for a while, and I am a bit surprised they have stayed with me as long as they have. It dawns on me that, just like I support women in childbirth as a doula, they are my “running doulas” - providing encouragement, distraction, and supporting me to finish the race.

I see the sign for mile marker 13. So close. Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter” comes on the iPod (yes, a bit cheesy, but it was played in boot camp, and reminds me of how much I have pushed myself thus far). I turn up the iPod and start my sprint to the finish. Christine and Candace started slowing down, allowing me to go through the shoot at the finish on my own. As I approach, I am wildly searching for Rob, the girls, my mom. Where are they?? Aren’t they going to see me finish?? As I approach the shoot on the right side of the street for half-marathon runners, lots of bells and whistle start going off. What is going on?? At the same time I cross the finish line, the first full-marathon runner enters the shoot on the left. Wow, he’s twice as fast as me!! I quickly receive my medal, am adorned with a silver Mylar blanket (for warmth), and before I know it, Christine has her arms around me, tears streaming down her face. Her excitement and emotions make me start to grasp the moment and I tear up. I’ve done it!! I completed a half-marathon! And just ten months ago I could not even run! WOW!!! So, where is my family?

I still don’t spot Rob and the girls. I remember my phone in my pocket (one benefit of a “dumb” flip-phone – its small size), and call Rob. “Where are you? I’m done!” Rob, “What? You finished? We missed you?” Once we reunite, all is explained. They were right there at the bell tower. The girls were playing . According to my pace at the 10k mark, race predictions were that I would finish about “2:40”. So, Rob let the girls play and then they got over by the course about “2:30” to watch for me. I scolded Rob, “Don’t you know me? I SAID I was going to finish UNDER 2:30”. Official finishing time: 2:28:55.

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-25T00:46:00.004-05:00

Here's a few pictures from the past month. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Christmas Card Family Picture

Waiting to see the neighborhood Santa while dropping off food for the needy.

Ella is not sure what to think of this Santa with his beard falling off.

Walking home from seeing Santa.

Neighbor Jan invited Lily and Rachel over to decorate a Gingerbread house.

The finished product!!

Rachel's Brownie troop walked in the Wake Forest Christmas Parade...here she is waiting for the parade to start with a couple fellow Brownies.

Rachel's cheering section...including 2 of my sisters, Elaine and Crista. My mom was also there, but was taking the picture.

It's hard to see Rachel, but she is right in the middle of this picture...red sleeves.

Rob and I at our church Christmas dinner/ concert.

My decorated table for Redeemer's Christmas dinner.

Rachel invited some school friends over to decorate cookies!

Lily decorates cookies with her 2 "best buds" - Caroline and William

Sporting new reversible vests from Great Grandmommy, while waiting for sleigh ride.

Horse that pulled sleigh. Rachel was excited to sit up front with the driver.

On a sleigh ride.

Our girls with Laster girls - Caroline and Catie - at Kanki....our 3rd time celebrating Christmas with the Lasters at Kanki. The first time we went, Lily and Caroline were in utero. We filled up the entire table this time.

Sweet sisters during our Christmas movie marathon.

Christmas eve - we let the girls open one present each...their Christmas PJs. Rachel had requested that they have some with feet in them. Lily and Ella try theirs on here.

I'm finally done playing Santa, and the stocking holders won't hold the filled stockings.

A close up of what Santa brought...Diamond Castle Barbies.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

We love you!

Christmas Letter 2008

2008-12-20T20:01:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends and Family,
“Indeed, in our hearts we have felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our HOPE that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. “ 2 Corinthians 1:9-11.

I realize this may be an odd way to start a Christmas letter, but it really sums up our year. In past letters, I have often talked about the changes going on in the Chapman family, but this year I wanted to focus on the constant thing in our lives that has held us up. It has been a difficult year, with loosing my Dad to brain cancer in March (just 7 months after his diagnosis). Our constant has been Christ alone. We continue to hope in him as our deliverer, knowing that he does not spare us from hard times, but he is with us in those troubles (Psalm 91:15). We have seen him work through his people, the body of Christ, and we are so thankful for your prayers on our behalf. They have kept us going more than you may realize. So, as we approach the celebration of his birth, we give praise to God for the coming of Christ, the hope that he will continue to sustain us, and the promise of being with him for eternity.

Of course the other “constants” in our lives are our three wonderful daughters, who are more than willing to keep us grounded in reality. J

Rachel took another semester of dance in the Spring and was so glad to dance to the “Nutcracker Suite” for her performance – it’s been one of her favorites (thanks to Grandaddy Chapman) since she was 2. Rachel turned 6 in August and invited a few friends to go horseback riding to celebrate. She LOVES horses!! A few days later, Rachel started 1st grade at Lynn Rd. Elementary, and again we have been blessed with a great teacher for her. Although she didn’t have anyone in her 1st grade class from her K class last year, she was not fazed by it at all, as she told us who all the other kids were and which K class they were in last year. Apparently, she knows everyone in her grade (about 100 kids) – sounds a bit like her Papa. J Rachel was excited to play soccer this fall, after hearing about how much her Daddy played growing up. She really improved over the season, and will play again in the Spring. Rachel also began Girl Scouts, as a Brownie, in September. She has already had her first overnight camp out, where she learned to fish and canoe. Most recently, Rachel has told us she wants to be a “Rock Star” when she grows up, and she loves to practice her performances.

Lily is still our silly girl. She could probably be a comedian when she grows up with all the one-liners she comes up with. And she is always doing silly things. For instance, she wore a beaded necklace around her shoulders, hanging down under her arms and around her back for a week, saying quite seriously that it was her “backpack”. Lily turned 3 in April, but is already planning her birthday parties for when she turns 4 and 5. J Lily also took dance class in the Spring and loved it. She is taking a break from dancing right now, as she just started preschool in September. She is in class 2 days a week, with her 2 best friends, who also go to our church. She has loved getting to know other kids as well. Everywhere we go, Lily can be heard singing; sometimes she sings real songs, and at other times, she just makes up her own words. I love that she always has a song in her heart. Most of the time, she is still our “flower child” and floats along with whatever we are doing.

Ella turned 1 in July, and is doing things her own way. Once she finally figured out crawling (if you can call scooting on your bottom with one leg in front “crawling”), she didn’t waste any time, and was walking before her first birthday. She is definitely our spunky one, and not only tries to keep up with her sisters, but is determined to compete with them as well. She holds her own, whether it is “fighting” for toys or food – often opening the cabinets to get the snack she wants. While she has been saying a few words for months, she has recently started saying a whole lot more, including calling Lily “Ella”. I guess we can’t blame her since we can’t call our kids the right names half the time. J Ella enjoys being outside whenever possible, even if that means dragging “greeny” (her little blanket my sister Crista made) through the dirt. She doesn’t go anywhere without her “nee nee.” With her darker hair and curls in the back, she has her own look, and her own little personality to match. We enjoy her sweet little hugs and kisses for all her family.

Rob continues to work at NCSU’s McKimmon Center. He has enjoyed having some new challenges with developing online courses, editing/ producing promotional DVDs, and other “IT” projects. This is Rob’s ninth year working part time for CanesVision, the production crew, or “Jumbotron Team”, for sporting events at the RBC Center, including Carolina Hurricanes Hockey, NC State University Football, and NC State Basketball. For at least the 3rd time, Rob was recently given the “Team Spirit” award. When he is not working, Rob loves spending time with family – he is such a good Daddy to our girls, and is the calm voice among the frequent “drama” in the house. He has also enjoyed being the assistant coach for Rachel’s soccer team.

I, (Becky), ended my job at UNC’s Center for Development and Learning in August, so that I could be at home more with the girls. Between taking the girls to school and preschool, soccer games, Girls Scouts, volunteering at Rachel’s school, Moms in Touch, Bible Study, WIC Council (Women in the Church), singing on worship team, volunteering at Wake Med and developing my doula business, I have quickly filled my schedule, but I have loved every minute of it!! I have found such joy and comfort through song in the months since my Dad passed; I especially feel a closeness with him when worshipping in church on Sunday mornings. One of my favorite songs that alludes to this is by Jars of Clay; their song “Let us Love and Sing and Wonder” says:

Let us praise and join the chorusOf the saints enthroned on highHere they trusted him before usNow their praises fill the sky

I love the image that we are joining with my Dad, my sister Leah, my grandparents, and all that have gone before us, as they praise and worship our Heavenly Father. What a comfort to know we will be reunited with them one day.

A few other family highlights from our year…
In early March, a week after my Dad went under the care of hospice, our entire family (17 of us at the time), took a trip to the mountains of Boone for a few days. It was such a nice time, especially as we have loved taking family trips there for several years (and Boone is where I went to college). Of course we had to take a trip into Blowing Rock for the famous Kilwins’ ice cream – my Dad’s favorite!! Rob, the girls and I spent every weekend in March in Huntersville. We are so thankful to the Fuseliers (my parents’ sweet friends, and now ours) for letting all 5 of us stay with them every time. This was also a special time of visiting with many family friends who had also come to see my Dad. A few weeks later, we were all together again at my parents house to celebrate Easter. This was the last time we would all be together.

In April, we participated in the “Angels Among Us” 5K/ Family Walk to raise money for the Brain Tumor Center at Duke, where my Dad had his surgery and received treatment. Although it was just a few weeks after my Dad had died, it was a great experience to be involved in this great cause. Our team “Helton’s HOPE” plans to participate again in April 2009.

In May, along with Rob’s parents and sister, we went to Disney World. It was a wonderful trip, although not really “relaxing” vacation, since we tried to cram so much into just a few days. Of course the girls all loved seeing their favorite Disney characters, and it was nice to get away for a little while. We were able to visit with some of my Mom’s family in Tallahassee on the drive down to Orlando.

In September, all 3 girls were flower girls in a wedding in Atlanta. The bride, Audrey, is the daughter of long time family friends, the Mendozas. Had my Dad still been with us, he would’ve officiated the wedding. Although he wasn’t, Audrey still wanted to have part of the Helton family in the wedding – we were honored. Lily threw petals down the aisle, while Rachel pulled Ella in a wagon. They were simply adorable and did a great job!! After the wedding, we headed up to Chattanooga/ Signal Mountain to visit with Rob’s grandmother. It was a special time with her, as well as Rob’s cousin Sara Merkle and her family. We were also able to see college friends, the Scotts, and their newborn baby, who they adopted in July.

In reflecting on my Dad’s life, I think my brother-in-law Daryl summed it up well, when speaking at the funeral. “He loved God. He loved People. In that order.” What a legacy he leaves!! I often wonder if I will be able to teach my girls the things that were most important to my Dad. Last week, I was full of pride when Rachel and I had a discussion about sharing the news of Christ. She said, “That’s why Papa went all over the world. To tell people everywhere about God. He loved God so much that he wanted everyone to know about him.” What else can you ask for?? J Well, Rachel had another comment to add to that….”I think I know why Papa loved God so much…because he made ice cream!!” Yup, that’s my Dad’s legacy – He loved God. He loved people. And he loved ice cream.

We are so blessed by all of you – not only your friendship, but your prayers, and your graciousness to serve us this year. We pray that you receive God’s richest blessings this Christmas season and all year long. May he be your constant as well.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Much love,
Becky

Horses and Soccer

2008-08-26T23:37:00.003-04:00

On Friday, August 22, we celebrated Rachel's 6th birthday! She invited 5 friends to come to a farm and go horseback riding! (she was inspired by PBS show "Saddle Club"....this is what happens when you don't have cable.) Rachel's actual birthday was Sat., August 23, but she was playing in her 1st soccer game that day. Enjoy pics from both below.

I made a barn cake with horse cupcakes around it. A few extra cupcakes said "Happy Birthday Rachel", with 2 cupcakes for candles on either side.
Rachel on her horse, before the trail ride (led by a guide).
Rachel with her friends...and yes, the girl on the end is only 6 as well...her family is tall.
Warming up before the game with Daddy.

Rachel's team won by at least 6 goals (they don't really keep score at this level, so we were trying to keep track). It could've been more, had her team not been competing for the ball between themselves, as pictured here. This is one instance where Rachel had "an assist" rather than a goal. She was tired, but had fun.

What? I have a blog?

2008-08-26T23:21:00.003-04:00

Oh yeah, this is it. I forgot about ol' blog! Anyway, here's some pictures from Ella's birthday party....last month! Sorry for the delay.

Rachel and Lily picked the "Bbay Einstein" theme. I made character cupcakes...the lion, the dragon, baby neptune (sea turtle), and the duck. I also had 5 cupcakes at the bottom of the caterpillar. Rachel selected the caterpillar's face to be the one for Ella to eat since it was the only one of its kind. How sweet!!

Lily, me, Rob, Rachel, and Gramma (my mom) help Ella celebrate!

Big Blue eyes enjoys her cupcake!

Ella get s little upset when she has to share with her friends....here, her 2 best buds, Zachary and Josiah (one month older than her) play with her toys.

Josiah and Ella spent a lot of time hangin; out at the snack table...those goldfish were good!!

Happy Birthday, my dear sweet Eleanor Rose! Something tells me, she's gonna be the one fiesty one, especially as she tries to keep up with 2 older sisters. Watch out!!

More pictures

2008-07-15T22:54:00.005-04:00

No, it's not your imagination...I am actually posting 2 times in the same day. I know, I didn't write for 2 months, and then I go and do this...just trying to keep you on your toes. : )
So, here are a few more pics from the last couple of months...

Ella "helping" to pick strawberries.

Ra and Lil showing off their baskets full of berries.

Ra and Lil being silly with their scarf and hat...on a 100 degree day!!!

Gymnastics portion of "Big Show" Performance at the Little Gym.
Our little dancer. This year, Rachel's class danced ballet to the "Nutcracker Suite" and tapped to "Rockin' Robin".
Lily - being a ham - just before her big performance.
Lily's class did a routine to "Oh Where, oh where has my little dog gone?"...here she is showing her "ears cut short" and wagging her "tail cut long".
Flowers from Grandmommy and Grandaddy!!

In addition 3 trips in June to my mom's to work on her house (to get it ready to sell), we did a little home project ourselves. Here are some pics of our new tile in the downstairs kids' room and half bath. We had someone lay the tile, but we pulled up carpet, painted baseboards, etc. ourselves.

new faucet, too!! Now the water won't spray when you turn it on. yay!!

Rach and Lils greeting Gramma at the train station on a recent visit. They were so excited to see her!!

Alrighty, folks, well I have procrasinated enough on my work for now...gotta wrap this up. By the way, Ella turns one in just 2 days!! So, I will have to put some pics up of her soon. Hopefully, I won't be 2 months late, next time.

Thanks for checking in with us.

Blessing to you, friends!

Lots of Pictures...

2008-07-15T22:29:00.005-04:00

Okay, so I have been a horrible blogger lately...or, really, just a non-blogger. So, rather than list everything we've been up to in the last few months, I'll just let you see.

First of all, we went to Disney World in May. SOOO much fun, but a bit crazy trying to fit everything in in such a short time; we've already decided we'll have to stay longer next time. Rob's parents, and his sister Jane went along with us.

Lily and Rachel with Ariel (this was the longest we waited to see a character...over an hour...but she is the girls' favorite!!)

Storytime with Belle in the Garden next to the Castle. Belle pulls kids up on stage to help act out her story. VERY fun!!

Rachel and Lily create their own ears...they chose the style, the ears (well, they were out of the pink fluffy ears), and a patch. You can't tell from this pic, but Rachel's has pink fur around the edges, and Lily's reminds me of a disco ball since it's a bit irridescent.

On the ferry from Fort Wilderness (we stayed in the cabins there) to Magic Kingdom.

Breakfast with Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter. Mary Poppins and Tigger and Pooh were also there. YUMMY food too!!

The famous picture of the family in front of the castle at Magic Kingdom. Too bad Ella wasn't looking.

Ella, hangin' out in the Ergo on my back, with her new ears.

Me, Ella, Jane, Lily, Sally (hiding behind Lily), and Rachel at DinoLand in Animal Kingdom.

Rachel was just barely tall enough for some of the rides, but did all the big roller coasters we did - Splash Mtn., Space Mtn., Expedition Everest, and Thunder Mt. Railroad (her favorite). Lily loved the Magic Carpet Ride (or "Jasmine" as she called it) and Small World. She was disappointed that Cinderella's Carousel was closed but is looking forward to riding it, along with the "big people" rides next time we go.

More pics coming....stay tuned!!

Anticipation

2008-05-21T16:13:00.007-04:00

There have been many conversations in our house recently about an upcoming birthday party for Lily's friend from dance class, Leah. The thing is, the party will be held at Little Gym, so Rachel has an interest in going for that reason, not that she wants to hang out with a bunch of 3 year olds (although she may not even mind that so much.)

So, here's our conversation at dinner the other night:

Rachel: "Can I go to Leah's party, too?"

Me: "No, this is just for Lily."

Rachel: "BUT I don't have anything going on...I don't have any plans!"

Me: "Yes, but you were not invited. Besides, you don't even know Leah."

Rachel: "Yes, I do. She's in Lily's dance class."

Me: "But you only met her quickly one time at Lily's dance show."

Rachel: "Ohhhh! I was thinking of Erin!! What does Leah look like?"

Lily: " E-ah wear a blue leotard."

It is also important to note that Leah gave Lily a new leotard for her birthday (she just got it from her last week as Leah was unable to make Lily's party.) Lily immediately put it on and said she wants to wear it to Leah's party. I didn't realize she meant until it was time for Leah's party. Since the party was still 9 days away, of course, this was not an option. Some days, Lily tries to trick me, and puts it on, then says, "Today is Leah's party?!?"

Some days they really make me laugh!!

Lily turns 3!!

2008-05-12T21:50:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, April 19, we celebrated Lily's 3rd birthday...Curious George style! (her acutal birthday is April 16). Here are a few pictures from the fun day!

I thought I could get away with making monkey cupcakes, but Lily wouldn't let me. She wanted a cake of George & the yellow hat. I found a picture online and made this one. It was fun to do.

Lily with her 2 "Best Buddies", William (or Yil-yam as Lily says) and Caroline. Lily loves to smother them with hugs. (Nice tattoos...daddy went a little overboard.)

Jack and Lily are having fun finger painting on the wall...just like George. No worries...it's washable!!

Daddy, er, I mean the Man in the Yellow Hat, made an appearance to read a George story. Elijah is very eager to hear every word (he had a George party in Sept., so he must know all the stories by now.)

Lily shares some of her banana split with little sister Ella.

True to her style, Lily's party was a little more low-key than Rachel's seem to be. It is interesting to note the differences in their personalities already. While Rachel has many friends (we once had 25 kids at one of her parties...not including some of their siblings), Lily has fewer but closer friends. Rachel is the social butterfly and makes friends easily. Lily, on the other hand, takes a little while to warm up to people and make close friends. But once you've gained her affections, you'll have them for life.

When we were making the list of who to invite to Lily's party, she wanted to include her Sunday school teacher. Ms. Sally. Ms. Sally could not come the morning of the party, but came by later that afternoon to give her a special gift. Lily was so excited for this special friend to come. We also missed Mallory Pond at the party, but her mommy had just given birth to baby Kiley that morning...in the front seat of their minivan. (As it turns out, Mallory was born on the morning of Rachel's 2nd birthday party...seems those Ponds are competing for our birthday party dates!!)

I am so proud of and blessed by Lily. She makes my heart smile with her expressions and caring words. She has such a gentle, sweet spirit. Happy Birthday, Lily!!!

The cat with the dirty mouth

2008-04-30T19:45:00.003-04:00

Throughout the month of March, when we'd visit my parents on the weekends, we stayed with family friends, Julie and Gary Fuselier. The first weekend, we arrived at the Fuseliers while they were out, and were told where the spare key was hidden and to come on in.

So, while Rob and I were unloading the car, the girls went on in and were checking out the house. On one of our trips back into the house, we found Rachel sobbing and looking quite upset. We quickly noticed that the girls had found the Fuseliers' cat, Snickers. Snickers looked equally frightened, so I wondered if she had scratched Rachel. Then Rachel says, through her tears, "That cat said a bad word!!" I couldn't help but giggle. Just then, Snickers hissed at us, and showed her teeth. I asked "Like that? Was that the bad word?" Rachel just nodded.

To add to it, the next morning, as we were coming downstairs for breakfast, Lily announced, "I not like that cat Snickers! She said a bad word to my sister!" I guess I should be proud that Lily is so defensive of her big sister.

After many weekends there, Snickers got used to us, and never said a bad word again.

Playing "Catch Up"

2008-04-12T07:47:00.010-04:00

Yes, I know, I know...I am SOOO overdue for a post. We've been a bit busy for the last 6 weeks, and have been playing catch up for the last week or so. I have to admit I have not completly unpacked our suitcases from a week ago. The day of my last post, my Dad went under the care of hospice. We spent every weekend in March, and some of the days in between, with my Dad in his final days. He went home to be with the Lord on March 30. It was a good last month...we took a family trip to Boone for 3 days, with all of my sisters, all 9 of the grand kids, and my parents. We were able to visit with lots of old friends who came to visit my Dad, and celebrated Easter together (the last time all 17 of us were together). Here are a few pictures from March.

Ella and Papa on Easter Sunday

Lily gives Papa a big kiss!!

Me and Dad

My cousin Jonathan (visiting from CA) bought ice cream/ popsicles for everyone when the ice cream truck drove by Papa and Gramma's house. Here, he's joined by neighbor Jenna, Rachel and Lily.

Dad's memorial service was truly a Celebration of his life. Even I was struck by the impact he had made on so many people. It was very touching to see so many and hear their stories about my Dad. He truly did live his life to point others to Christ. In his death, it was the same. He would've loved the service!! There was a lot of laughter as well as tears, along with songs of worshipping God and remembering an incredible man of God. Many of the stories about my Dad had to do with his driving...most people hang onto the door handle while riding with him...or had to do with his love of ice cream. This picture was on the front of the program for the service:

For more information about the service, you can go to the CaringBridge site. My sister Melanie (with help from her husband) wrote a recap of the celebration we had, in the journal entry dated April 3.

There have been several articles (and even a blog post by journalist David Poole) written about my dad. Here is one of the better ones. Also, in their local Huntersville paper, there were some good articles years ago about my dad. One of my favorites tells about my dad's adventures with the Olympic Torch Relay around the world in 2004. Another well-written one by the same journalist, chronicles my Dad's 40 years in ministry.

Rachel and Lily (although more so Rachel) do have some questions about their Papa. Rachel has been sad at times, and even started crying really hard at the memorial service. Rob and I could not stop our own tears, seeing her so broken up about Papa and missing him. All along, she has had questions about Papa and how he got cancer. I think she's worried about Rob or I getting cancer, as we also know about (and have been praying for) two little girls with cancer...So, in her reasoning, anyone can get cancer. One night, in a very serious and grown up tone, Rachel said "Mommy, try not to get sick." On the positive side, we've had opportunity to discuss with both girls the concepts of heaven and being with Jesus. Already having accepted Jesus as her Savior, Rachel is glad that she will get to see Papa again in heaven. Both girls have said they are happy that Papa is better, no longer sick, in heaven. It is amazing to me how much their little minds can grasp...these are such big concepts that even adults struggle to realize, and yet, they are so simple, in many ways, to the minds of children.

The next few weekends will continue to be busy for us. Next Wednesday, April 16, Lily will turn 3!! We're celebrating with a Curious George birthday party on April 19. The following weekend, April 26, we'll participate in the Angels Among Us walk to support Brain Cancer Research at Duke. (check out our team products at www.cafepress.com/HeltonsHOPE where proceeds are donated to Duke). The following weekend (May 2-7), we'll be heading to Florida...we'll see some relatives and then go to Disney World!!!

In short, the girls are doing great. Rachel is becoming a whiz on the computer, and loves typing her own journal entries (perhaps I will let her blog sometime) :) and playing games from different kids' websites. Lily is Lily...so silly and entertaining to watch. She is so excited about turning 3 and feels more like a "big girl." Lily is also becoming more and more affectionate with her sisters, particularly Ella. She has always loved her sisters, but just seems to have more of a tenderness with impromptu hugs and big smiles and kisses for Ella. It is so sweet to watch. Ella is growing so quickly and is so strong. She does not have much interest in crawling, and may just skip it all together. She is much more interested in being upright, holding fingers and walking...and she is not even 9 months yet!!! She has figured how to lean and reach, and roll and stretch, and scoot to get what she wants. She's definitely creative.

Blessings to you all, friends!!

I've Been Tagged!!

2008-02-25T10:54:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I was tagged over a week ago by my friend from college, Emily (Southern Belle Displaced), but I am just now getting around to posting this. I will tell you the rules:

1. You have to post the rules before you give your answers.

2. You must list one fact about yourself beginning with each letter of your middle name. (If you don't have a middle name, use your maiden name.)

3. After you are tagged, you need to update your blog with your middle name and your answers.

4. At the end of your blog post, you need to tag one person for each letter of your middle name. (Be sure to leave them a comment telling them they have been tagged and that they need to read your blog for details.)

L - Laughter. We have a lot of laughter in our house. Even if it is corny, Rob is a funny guy. He and my dad compete with each other to come up with the funniest and corniest jokes. Rachel and Lily have also come up with some of their own "Knock! Knock!" jokes. I love to laugh...it is contagious.

Y - Years...they pass quickly. I still cannot believe that Rob and I have been married 10 years, and that our oldest daughter is 5 years old!! Where does the time go??? Although my waistline and eye wrinkles tell me otherwise, I still think of myself as being 20...maybe 22. : ) Here's to many more years to come!!

N - Need more sleep. I never feel like I get enough sleep. Especially with multiple kids that end up in our bed nightly. I have resigned myself to the fact that I may not get a good night's sleep for at least 10 more years. So, how do I cope? See the next one...

N - Need coffee daily. I could drink coffee all day. But, since I am still nursing, I try to limit it to just 2 cups in the morning. Even my girls know the importance of mommy having her coffee, and they can tell Rob how to make it for me (he is not a coffee drinker.) I still remember Rachel being about 18 mo. old and noticing that I had finished my first mug of the morning...she held it up and said "Mo' poffee, mommy?" Too cute!! It is also fitting that Lily's favorite part of the Nutcracker is "Coffee" (the dancer); she would drink coffee, too, if I let her.

E - Excited about preparing parents for childbirth. I became a doula (labor assistant) last year, and am passionate about helping women have the births they want. I believe in the strength of women to birth their babies themselves (along with the amazing ways God has created us to do so), and encourage women to be confident in their births, as well as in mothering their children. At some point, I will also get my certification as a Childbirth Educator, and I plan to volunteer as a doula for pregnant teens.

Okay, now, Robin Ann, Heather, Courtney, Kristen, and Melissa...tag! you're it!!

We're still here...just trying to keep our heads above water!

2008-02-18T18:02:00.005-05:00

Sorry it has been so long since I posted last. We've been ill and we've been busy.

Seems that the stomach bug made its way through the Chapman household. A week ago Friday (2/8), Rob stayed home to take care of me, Lily, and Ella - all of whom were throwing up! Then, by Friday afternoon, just as I was starting to feel a bit better, Rob started throwing up! Somehow, Rachel seemed to miss out on the "action", but she decided to get sick all on her own this past weekend...she's had a fever of 102 degrees since Saturday; when I took her to the doctor today, we found out that she has the flu (despite having had a flu shot!) So, she is spending her days off from school (today and tomorrow) sick...Rob already informed her this was NOT the way to make the best use of her days off from school...she is supposed to get sick when she can miss school. :) Chalk it up to being a Kindergartener...she hasn't learned these "rules" yet.

This has also been a difficult week with my dad. Last Tuesday, he and my mom came up for his appointment and bi-weekly treatment at Duke. We were told that even if he can improve a little (he's been quite weak since having pneumonia) and continue treatment, we can expect to only have a couple more months with him. Any setback or stopping treatment will cut that time short. On Friday, he was back in the hospital. We found out that he has bleeding in his esophagus - probably from the combination of chemo and his history of acid reflux. Since being hospitalized, his chemo has been stopped, and will not be resumed until his next appt. at Duke next week to reassess if we should even restart it. This is just the kind of setback we were warned about, and can now plan on having even less time with him. My heart is very heavy, but it has been such an encouragement to have such loving friends care for and support us and pray for us during this time. I am so incredibly blessed!!

So, that's what we've been up to.

No real "news" about the girls, but I'll try to think of something to share...

Rachel - she LOVES to read and keep a reading log to be turned in at school every month. When she turned in her log the other week, she had read 611 minutes for the month!! We are hoping this earns her the "top" spot (and prize) for the entire Kindergarten class.

Lily - We enrolled her in preschool - to start in Sept. She'll go to Rachel's old preschool, which she used to point out every time we passed it. Now, she says with excitement, when we pass..."That's MY preschool!!! I go when I'm 3!!" Lily has also been singing sounds she's learned from Sunday School (from her favorite teacher "Miss Sally")...she goes aroudn singing "bwessed Je-us, bwessed Je-us...." She does it when she thinks no one is watching. Too cute!!

Ella - she FINALLY started sleeping through the night at 6.5 months old (the latest of our girls)!! But, that only lasted about 10 days, when she started waking up in pain from teething. She now has one tooth, and another trying to push its way out. This is a new experience for me...nursing a teething child. Rachel and Lily didn't get teeth until they were 11 and 12 months, respectively.

Love and blessings to you all, my dear friends!!

Papa's girls

2008-02-03T22:22:00.000-05:00

We went to Huntersville (near Charlotte) this weekend to see my parents. Unfortunately, my dad ended up in the hospital on Friday, so we just hung out with them there. [ side note: as it turns out, all his lab work turned out okay, and the doctors don't think his decline was related to his brain tumor, but rather the combination of still recovering from pneumonia and restarting chemo this week...he is just exhausted and needs to time to rest and recover.]

A hospital room is not the easiest place to handle 3 kids, but the girls did pretty well. Rachel and Lily take turns playing "nurse" to Papa - getting him his medicine, making sure he drinks water, etc. There was a family waiting area that had all sorts of kids movies, but nothing to play them on. So, the girls had to watch "Beauty and the Beast: Enchanted Christmas" with their Papa in his room. Of course, having 5 daughters of his own, he is familiar with all things "girly" and enjoyed seeing Rachel and Lily dance around the room. Dad even held Ella for a little while; he loves just looking at her...she looks more like my Helton side than the Chapman side, and this makes him very proud.

Although it is sad for me to think that my girls may not remember much about their Papa, and Ella will likely have no recollection of him at all, I am glad for these moments....to at least see my Dad, a very influencial person in my life and who has helped shape the person I have become, with my daughters, who I am trying to influence and shape into the people they will become. These moments are gifts, and even if the girls don't remember it, I will. And we'll have pictures. (These were taken Fall 2007).

Here we are!

2008-02-01T09:53:00.000-05:00

So, we've joined the masses and finally started a blog.

For years, when relaying cute little stories about the girls to my mom and sisters, they often ask "have you written that one down?" Of course, my reply is "no."....but I should. I have never been good at journaling, at least not on a regular basis. So, I am hoping this will nudge me in the right direction, and perhaps I will actually get to record some of the funny and cute events in our daily lives. I hope to post at least once a week, but perhaps more than that. You'll just have to keep checking to see if there's anything new.

This blog will mainly be about our girls, thus the name "Chap Chicks", but I may decide to post on other topics from time to time. Either way, we hope you enjoy!!

So, to begin, I'll share one funny story that has happened recently. Lily (who will be 3 in April), has recently been potty-trained, so going potty (and finding a potty in public) has been on her mind a lot. We are planning a trip to Disney World in early April...while on the potty one day, Lily says "I want to go potty in Cinderella's Castle....I want Cinderella to help me go potty." Lily also has panties with the princesses on them; when taking off her Sleeping Beauty pair the other day, she said "I going to give 'em back a her when we go Disney World."