because i said so...

i choose peace.

2011-12-24T23:22:00.001-06:00

no christmas cards this year.

avoided the frustration of attempting to make my kids all smile happily

at the same time for the camera.

eliminating stress where i can.

choosing to focus on christ.

oh come let us adore him.

no santa this year.

kyle and i told santa we've got it covered and want to focus on jesus' birthday.

multiple times a day, people ask my kids if they are excited about santa.

we kindly reply that we are having a birthday party for jesus instead.

most look confused. that's okay. well, not really.

i'll always remember embry's response to the first question.

a lady asked him what santa was bringing him for christmas

and he proudly said, "santa's not coming to our house because his presents

(my ears heard presence) will be a distraction to us."

eliminating the competition.

for he alone is worthy.

our gifts are different this year.

i could not do one more year of running around to find things...

just to buy them... just to check them off my list... just because that's what you do.

it completely distracts me from where i want to be. there is so much more to this.

even though others may not get it, it's where we are. where we are supposed to be.

we give you all the glory.

christ the lord.

praying that this will be the most meaningful christmas yet.

that we can take the time from the busyness swirling around us

and truly adore the gift that has been given to us.

merry christmas!

'tis the season...

2011-12-24T11:01:00.000-06:00

for some advent activities!

What a fun December it has been!

1 - Explore Christmas lights at Rhema.
2 - Shop for Blackwell family and Broken Arrow Neighbors.
  3 - Christmas parade and Bethlehem Walk.
  4 - Make popsicle snowflakes and watch Frosty the Snowman.
  5 - Ellie's Christmas dance. Family game night and s'mores.
  6 - Shop for OK Foster Wishes.
7 - Take cookies to Life Church staff.
8 - Hot cocoa and Christmas books.
9 - Make cinnamon ornaments.
10 - Christmas Train.
11 - Christmas cookies.
12 - Watch It's a Wonderful Life.
13 - Button wreaths and felt wreaths.
14 - Dinner under the tree.
15 - Date night with Minnie. (which means date night for Kyle & I. :))
16 - Lights with Papaw & Minnie.
17 - Christmas with Nana's family.
18 - Girls go to Nutcracker. Boys go to the movies.
19 - Read J is for Jesus and do a candy cane craft for GG's apartment building.
20 - Family game night and hot cocoa.
21 - Make candy cane popcorn for friends and neighbors.
22 - Deliver popcorn to friends and crafts to GG's apartment building. Watch Home Alone.
23 - Gingerbread nativities. Life Church Christmas service.
24 - Make Christmas presents for Jesus and bake him a birthday cake. Sleep under the tree tonight.
25 - Birthday party for Jesus!

my lunch date

2011-12-02T21:33:00.003-06:00

We had a lunch date today. Her choice... so of course we went to Panera.

I took this picture because it reminded me of one I took about this time last year...

She's such a little lady. She longs for high heels. She keeps busy "coordinating" her outfits. She wants to fix her own hair.
She enjoys mothering her brothers. She gets frustrated with me when I won't let her wear make up.
She's 5! Where does this come from? She's growing up too fast and I don't need her to speed it up any faster!

According to her homework today, I think that her need to mother her brothers has expanded into some wishful thinking.
Maybe she needs a new doll for Christmas. :)

time well spent

2011-11-29T12:12:00.008-06:00

The time, always the time, I'm an amateur trying to beat time. The six kids rouse. We race. The barn... and hurry. The breakfast... and hurry. The books, the binders... and hurry! In a world addicted to speed, I blur the moments into one unholy smear. I have done it. I do it still. Hands of the clock whip hard. So I push hard and I bark hard and I fall hard and when their wide eyes brim sadness and their chins tremble weak, I am weary and I am the thin clear skin, reflecting their fatigue, about to burst, my eyes glistening their same sheer pain.

The hurry makes us hurt.

I don't really want more time; I just want enough time.

I just want time to do my one life well.

-Ann Voskamp

Being in a hurry. Getting to the next thing without fully entering the thing in front of me. I cannot think of a single advantage I've ever gained from being in a hurry. But a thousand broken and missed things, tens of thousands, lie in the wake of all the rushing... Through all that haste I thought I was making up time. It turns out I was throwing it away.
-Mark Buchanan

These are words from a book I am reading right now. Oh, it is speaking to me. One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. It's just what I need right now as Kyle and I are taking steps to simplify and get to the place where God wants our family to be. Being thankful for what we have today. Right now. Maybe doing things a little different than the next family, maybe doing some things the same. Changing things up according to what is on our hearts.

But what always seems to get in the way no matter how I try to keep things/activities/obligations to a minimum is my unnecessary need to get things done. I'm guilty of flying through moments just to check each one off the list.

I've even found myself rushing through this book so I can move on to the next.

And I feel that I am thankful for this life. Every bit of it.

But am I really? Do I stop and notice the details? The amazing details in each day that show God's love and power? Because they are everywhere. All around me.

So I am making an effort to slow down and really enjoy this book and the poetic words that fill its pages. And while I'm at it, enter into each moment of my day. Rush my kids less. Love my family more. Thank God for the blessings, big and small.

We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing.
We heap up wealth, not knowing who will spend it.

Psalm 39:6

thankful thoughts

2011-11-23T21:12:00.005-06:00

For some reason, the last week has been one of those weeks.
One where no one seems to obey and the kids don't particularly like each other. Or so it seems.
Too many spankings for them and too little patience and energy for me.
So thinking about Thanksgiving tomorrow, I've attempted to redirect all day today and focus on thankfulness and see the blessings all around me.
I made sure to take each kiddo aside at some point today and tell them how thankful I was for each one and why.

I threw them in the backyard for a few pics.
I wanted to remember what they looked like today.

I'm thankful to have a husband who wishes he could be around more. I am thankful for the man he is.
I am thankful for our marriage. It only seems to grow stronger.

I'm thankful for a daughter who felt "super duper bad" and on the verge of tears when she accidentally pulled a lizard's tail off.
Such a big heart. Thankful for her loving spirit.

I'm thankful for a son who enjoys reading to his little brother and sister.
Those moments... you can see their love for him. Heart-melting good stuff.

I'm thankful for another son who has the most random thoughts.
"When I was sick, it felt like I had a leaf in my throat.", "I'm so impressed that GG can take her teeth out.", "Ellie, you smell like a hot tub."
Thankful for these little happies throughout each and every day.

I'm thankful for my family's health.
Some days it seems that too much of our money goes to appointments and medicine, but things could be far worse
and I absolutely don't take that for granted. We are healthy and I am thankful.

I'm thankful for the priviledge to stay home.
I can't imagine how I would handle not being here day in and day out to care for my family. Unthinkable.
It's what I was meant to do and I get to do it. So thankful.

I'm thankful for a God who loves me for me.
It's been a year of stretching and learning and growing closer to Him. He has opened up some new doors for us this year.
Doors that should bring about worry and fear. But I feel peace. His peace covering me... and that's all I really need.

Following in last year's footsteps, I asked the fam what they were thankful for this year...

Kyle

a really great wife (edited for content)
cool kids
still love to operate
great church
a purpose
Africa
coca-cola

Ellie

Daddy

Mommy

my whole family

movies

jewelry

princesses

sparkly shoes

my toys

God

food

reading books

restaurants

Embry

sun so bright

moon at night

"Are you singing a song?" He said no. :)

family

Mommy and Daddy

playing wii

sleeping

legos

going to church

Justin Bieber

Jesus protecting us

coloring

Hayes

my family

school

a good house

food

how we are blessed

books

friends

grandparents

God

Jesus

Embry's breathing treatments so he can feel better

bed

Walmart

the police

firefighters

my toys

legos

Happy Thanksgiving!

pickin' pumpkins

2011-10-29T00:44:00.001-05:00

give a kid a camera...

a time to dance...

2011-10-25T17:06:00.002-05:00

Enjoying a rare dance with a willing brother

makes this amazingly sunny day a bit sunnier.

lucky me

2011-10-13T10:31:00.000-05:00

Somehow, I get to be one of the lucky ones.

One of the lucky ones in this world who gets a man like you.

A man who understands me like no one else.

A man who sees the good in people and makes the best of a situation.

A man who can make me laugh when I feel like crying.

Lucky me.

To dream with you about the future and God's plan for our family, I don't take it for granted.

I know how lucky I am that we share the same dreams.

I know how lucky I am to be married to a man with a heart for Christ.

A heart that aches to change things for the better.

Lucky me.

With everything in me, I know you will never turn away.

Never give less than all you have to protect your family.

To provide and be a rock for your wife and kids.

To show others kindness.

Lucky us.

And I think we both know that luck has nothing to do with it.

Thanking God for you.

Today and everyday.

Now let's go celebrate #35, big boy... whether you want to or not. :)

Love you long time.

happy birthday with a cherry on top!

2011-10-04T21:15:00.001-05:00

Daddy finally made it home.

Now it's time for cake!

homework

2011-09-29T14:01:00.000-05:00

the day they turned five

2011-09-27T00:26:00.000-05:00

what a difference five years make.

today was an interesting day.

because i knew daddy couldn't be with us, i hesitated to make a big deal of your birthday today.

but it's just hard not to celebrate two of the most amazing blessings a mama could ever ask for.

i hope you each felt special and celebrated all day long.

and as soon as daddy gets home from malawi, we'll celebrate again!

love you so much,

mommy

baby ezra

2011-09-14T12:05:00.000-05:00

Welcoming another precious nephew into our family.

Congrats Andrew, Laura and Jude!

so long, farewell

2011-09-03T22:46:00.001-05:00

A bittersweet day it has been. Dora (the explorer) has been traded in for a new girl.

As I scraped and scrubbed the remnants of who knows what off her floors,

I couldn't help but think about how much our family has relied on her over the past years to get us from one place to another.

Our babies have become kids during our time with her.

Sure, I'm beyond excited about our new car and the fact that when I put this new car in reverse,

my kids will no longer think that I am popping a wheelie, but it still makes me a little sad.

Here's to good memories, new beginnings and a water only rule that will be strictly enforced. :)

back to school!

2011-08-25T22:24:00.000-05:00

Off to a great start for our little pre-k kiddies and big boy 2nd grader!

thirteen years

2011-08-09T18:20:00.000-05:00

together since we were kids.

no regrets.

thankful beyond words that you are the one who has my heart.

love you long time.

a good day to be a little girl.

2011-07-07T18:41:00.002-05:00

like most mornings, ellie sneaks in and takes over kyle's empty spot.

getting ready for our day of fun.

you can't have a girlie day without a pedi... and matching blue polish.

tea time.

we've got to make this a tradition. so much fun!

"swing me just two times, then watch what i can do."

pink sugar cookies, please.

and what better way to end a day? a date with daddy, of course. italian food and pottery painting on the agenda.

is there really a better feeling than seeing your husband spend time with your little girl?

her anticiptating the date all week? him opening the door for her as they head out for their night together?

me knowing that he is taking the time and preparing her heart for what to look for in a man someday.

this is what it's about, people. good stuff.

toes in the sand

2011-06-21T20:19:00.000-05:00

this picture is a favorite for several reasons:

1. Kyle took it.

2. If I had to pick one picture out of the few I took that sums up vacation for the kids, this would be it.

3. It captures the essence of kids and their love for swimming pools. All three longed for the pool, not the ocean. Silly rabbits.

4. It gives you an idea of how great this place is. Over behind Hayes is our cottage with the purple chairs... just steps away from the pool. And on the other side, the beach. This place was probably the oldest around and some aspects definitely showed the wear, but you just can't beat the view.

5. You can see some scratches on Hayes' chest. A reminder of a crash with an oncoming biker earlier that morning that brought our family bike ride to a halt. It wasn't pretty. But it was a little bit funny. After the fact, of course. :)

6. His crack is probably showing on the other side. What is it with these boys and keeping their pants up?

7. I love this kid.

***

Fifteen hours in the car ain't so bad when you are headed south to make memories in the sand. We enjoyed having Daddy all to ourselves for seven days, exploring the little beach towns from Pensacola to Panama City Beach and deciding that we BELONG there. Oh wait, that's just me.

We could not have asked for a more pleasant time in the car with the kids. Daddy surprised them at one of our many potty breaks at Walmart with a new
DS of their own. Their little faces lit up when he told them to each pick a color. Smart man. Knows how to buy himself some peace and quiet. :)

After our first day of driving, we woke up in Birmingham and headed to the children's muesum. The kids had a blast running around and exploring.
Now who's the smart mama with the idea to get them all worn out for the tail end of the car ride?

We also got to meet up with Drew, Liz and the boys AND Matt, Dion and the girls.
Talk about cherries on top!

You'll notice a good amount of pics of this cutie patoot. There's a reason for that. If there was a trip trooper trophy to give out, Ellie would win it.

She was always up for everything, having fun with whatever we did. She was my beach buddy and I can't wait for more walks in the sand with my girl.

That first picture may sum up vacation for the kids, but this one sums it up for me.

happy father's day!

2011-06-19T20:26:00.001-05:00

We couldn't ask for a better Dad to lead our family. Your sacrifices, we'll never be able to repay you.

We can only learn from you. Learn how to work hard, help others and walk in the way of Christ.

We're really too young to truly understand how good we've got it, but Mom tells us... we got it good. :)

We love you!

***

This was too cute to not add...

moonlit

2011-06-05T23:04:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend with Kyle on his small town ER shift. He may be blaming me for the busy Friday night

(which never happens... He finally got to bed at 3 am.), but I think he enjoyed having a buddy to explore all the sights with the remainder of the weekend.

I forgot my camera. Boo. So the iphone pics will have to do.

Breakfast in his lovely room, which doubles as a sleep study room during the week. Not too bad.

Highlight was having to walk down the hall to an empty patient room to shower. :)

We found plenty of places to fish. If only that pager would stop going off.

We ate dinner at the two fine dining establishments in town.

Nothing on the schedule. Bliss.

Lots of relaxing, reading and driving through some of God's beautiful country.

We also met some cows... lots, actually. And when's the last time you rented a movie from the one gas station in town?

Sure was a nice change of pace.

Thanks babe for letting me tag along.

welcome summer!

2011-05-27T14:22:00.003-05:00

Our start to summer didn't go exactly as planned.
Plans were to drop Hayes off at school for his last day, join him in the afternoon while he had outside fun with his school friends.
Instead we headed to the pediatrician and then to Walgreen's to pick up meds for strep throat. Poor guy.
He was devastated to miss school. However, our summer treasure chest, along with some ibuprofen, helped bring a smile to his face. :)

I loved this. The first paper was written at the beginning of first grade. The second paper, at the end.
You can also tell that he still really isn't a fan of coloring. The boy would rather be drawing. :)

and the butterflies fly away...

2011-05-26T22:10:00.000-05:00

Another round of the Live Butterfly Garden to get things kicked off for the summer.

When we released the butterflies today, the little guys weren't as friendly as last year. This last picture is all I got of the release. :)

Oh well, we still had a great time watching the amazing transformation.

pop goes the weasel

2011-05-22T22:44:00.002-05:00

What a fun night! These girlies did so good and were just the cutest little jack-in-the-boxes!

Mommy got to hang out backstage with the girls.

Flowers from Daddy.

Thanks Grandpa, Papaw, Nana and Minnie for coming to watch! It meant so much!

Ellie, you were such a good little dancer tonight.

Sorry about the floppy hat. But you have to admit, it was pretty funny. :)

So proud of you sweet girl.

Love,

Mommy

singing and swords

2011-05-19T21:39:00.005-05:00

Embry and Ellie had their school music program today. Here's a little taste of the cuteness. :)

Each year, I try to get their picture outside on the benches at the end of the year.

2009

2010

They weren't havin' it this go-around, so goofiness is all we got.

We've been playing A LOT outside lately. Today was no exception. :)

A boy and his sword.

legoland

2011-05-09T17:36:00.002-05:00

What a great weekend! We hit the new Legoland Discovery Center in Dallas and shopped 'til we dropped... or at least 'til the kids dropped. :)
Kyle and I had a moment where we both felt that we are finally arriving to the part of life where traveling with kids becomes more of a joy and not so much work. So encouraging and brings mucho hope to this Mama who has a thing for travel!

hayes' doodles

2011-05-03T21:46:00.001-05:00

the little mermaid

2011-05-03T15:19:00.000-05:00

Has Ariel ever looked so lovely?

party time!

2011-05-01T16:57:00.000-05:00

We had our first birthday party outside of the house... and Mama liked it. :)

Hayes had a great time jumping, running and sweating with his buddies.

My Lego boy enjoyed his Lego party.

Happy 7th Birthday, Hayes!

seven

2011-04-28T12:02:00.001-05:00

Hayes, what a year it has been! So many wonderful things are happening in your life... so much to be thankful for!

I was watching your first year video yesterday and I'm having a hard time believing that we've already advanced into the land of losing teeth and bikes with no training wheels.

Has it really been seven years?

Seven years since I first held you and you changed my life completely?

You are quite an amazing kid. Dad and I are so thankful that we get to be on this journey with you as learn, grow and discover what God has in store for you. If I had to guess now, I'd say you just might grow up to be an architect or a donut maker. Or maybe a paleontologist or a cartoonist. Or maybe you'll venture into medicine like your dad. Whatever it is, it doesn't matter because I know you are capable of changing the world. My prayer for you is that you grow closer to God each day and listen as He guides you to His perfect plan for your life. I know He's got big plans for you and your big heart.

Love you,

Mom

hey superman...

2011-04-12T18:15:00.000-05:00

Just because you're Superman

doesn't mean you call the shots.

You gave me about 30 seconds of your time today.

I needed a little bit more from you.

I get that you are beyond cute and have mighty super powers and all.

I'm sure your plate is full with all kinds of world-saving missions.

But I'm your Mommy.

And Mommy needs some pics.

Far too soon, you'll be wearing bigger shoes than I.

You'll be begging me to not embarass you in front of your friends.

So I want to capture the now.

While I can still hold your little superman hand and kiss your little superman cheek.

And while you still call me your valentine.

You surely understand, don't you?

expressions

2011-04-08T11:03:00.000-05:00

I love these pictures for two reasons.

1. You can really see Ellie's personality... the posing, the animated faces, the messy hair. I love it.

2. See the little pink fuzzy on her neckline? Pink fuzzies are a part of our life. All over the house.

I'm pretty sure we will still be seeing those things long after her blankie is gone.

been a long time coming....

2011-04-07T17:13:00.002-05:00

Kyle sent me this video while I was at the store.

Tear in my eye.

Hayes finally decided he was ready to attempt the big boy bike riding.

After a couple years of us pleading (with no interest whatsoever),

he found the will to give it a go. And it took about 30 minutes. :)

Just goes to show you what you can accomplish once you set your mind to it.

Way to go Hayes!

hangin' with the boys

2011-03-19T22:39:00.000-05:00

I'm gonna make Kyle be in charge of planning our daily excursions more often! We had the best boy day today.
We headed towards the hills and water for a little jeeping and fishing. Managed to stumble upon the USS Batfish submarine as well.
According to Hayes it was "the best day ever!" That is until he didn't catch a fish, then it was 'the worst day ever!"

Ya win some, ya lose some.

Speaking of losing... I'm lost without my little miss. I'm missing her sweet face and her sass.
She comes home from her grandparent excursion in a couple days and I can't wait!

grandpa's pond

2011-03-16T21:22:00.000-05:00

boy in a chair

2011-03-06T21:12:00.000-06:00

ellie bellie

2011-03-03T08:17:00.000-06:00

guessing game

2011-03-01T12:10:00.000-06:00

Looking back...

at the picture on my first blog post.

September 2008.

Don't you just want to squish those sweet little legs of hers?

Embry has been in Bwell for several days, giving his brother and sister the opportunity to hang out. If you know anything about their relationship, you know it's a bit of a rocky one. They don't get along so well. :) But I do have to say, they have done really well and there have even been occasions of actual playing together. This was on the way to church the other day...

Hayes: I'm thinking of something big and brown.
Ellie: A wolf.
Hayes: No. Bigger.
Ellie: A bear.
Hayes: No. It doesn't move.
Ellie: A statue of a wolf or a bear.
Hayes: No. It can be skinny or really fat.
Ellie: I'm wearing skinny jeans!!
Hayes: No, it helps us breathe.
Ellie: A dog!

Approaching irritation, Hayes reveals the answer to be a tree and she doesn't believe him.

Ellie: I'm thinking of something big and giant and big and giant and big and giant.

After multiple guesses, Hayes gives up.
Ellie reveals the answer... a giant.

I love listening to these games in the car, whether it be the guessing game, i spy or the quiet game. Embry and Ellie are juuuust on the verge of playing correctly and it it makes for some good laughs for Mommy.

birthday weekend

2011-02-21T12:25:00.000-06:00

It was probably one of the most memorable birthdays I've had, or ever will.
Hayes got baptized. He had a bunch of people who love him there to share in the celebration.
It was a pretty special day.

be my valentine

2011-02-15T09:40:00.001-06:00

When Kyle showed me the necklace he got for Ellie, it about killed me... in a good way. :)

To think about your husband being the protector of your little girl's heart.

Always being a rock for her, never leaving her.

Leading her in the way of Christ.

It's all a girl like me could ever really ask for in life.

You are a good Daddy, babe.

And I'm so thankful that I get to share these valentines with you.

While Kyle and Ellie dined on Abuelo's and Cherry Berry, the boys and I had a little fun of our own, eating pizza and making s'mores at Cosi.

And out of all the theaters in town, we just so happened to end up at the same one to watch Gnomeo & Juliet. :)

It was fun to end our date night together as a family.

snow daze

2011-02-12T10:27:00.002-06:00

Lots of art, playing, reading, eating and bonding during the last two weeks of snow.

Bring on the sunshine!

fruit bowl

2011-02-07T13:46:00.003-06:00

You might remember Hayes' first masterpiece. Well, the second one is finished and looks very festive up on the fireplace mantle.

He was determined to do a fruit bowl for some reason. And a fruit bowl, it is.

i scream!

2011-02-02T19:04:00.000-06:00

you scream!

we all scream

for snow cream!

kids in the kitchen

2011-01-02T20:05:00.000-06:00

scopin' out recipes

grocery shoppin'

food preppin'

little miss

2010-12-28T19:30:00.000-06:00

mommy captured a sweet smile.

daddy got one too.

a child is born!

2010-12-25T14:03:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday Jesus!

christmas time is here...

2010-12-24T19:07:00.000-06:00

A few more advent activites to wrap up our calendar. We'll finish tomorrow with baking a birthday cake for Jesus and watching The Nativity Story.

We'll spend our first Christmas together tomorrow... just our little family. Seems like it's been Christmas all week long though. We just got back from spending several days with the lovelies below. Had a great time. We're very blessed to have so many people that love us.

Merry Christmas!

family day

2010-12-21T00:29:00.000-06:00

We spent the entire day together. Cookies in the afternoon. Christmas Train at night.

This year's trip to the Christmas Train is gonna be hard to beat. Perfect weather. No long waits in line. Happy kids.

But what makes it a night I will never forget... I sat next to a certain six year old boy and listened to him pray the prayer asking Jesus into his heart.

Hayes, we could not be more proud of you. What a big decision you made tonight. One that has changed your life forever.

You got up after the prayer and declared, "I'm going to be the best I can be for the rest of my life." Sweet boy.

Looking forward to watching you grow in Christ, buddy. Love you.

How's that for a Christmas present? :)

while we run around this season....

2010-12-13T15:28:00.001-06:00

let us not forget, it's because of His love we celebrate.

extracurricular activities

2010-12-11T00:35:00.004-06:00

Oh man. Today was full of extracurricular activities... and we'll just leave it at that. :)

And Minnie, thanks for being there today. You're the best!

My Christmas ballerina danced a merry dance...

and the boys ended the night with new yellow belts!

what's behind door number eight...

2010-12-08T23:33:00.002-06:00

hot chocolate and christmas books

We've really been enjoying our Advent calendar this month.
The kids look forward to opening the little doors each day to see what surprise awaits them.
So far, we've had stickers, candy and some fun activities...

shopping for angel tree kiddos

family date at the movies

making snowflakes and watching frosty the snowman

bouncing for jesus at bouncy barn :)

beaded candy canes and reading j is for jesus

Lots more in store for the month as we prepare to celebrate the birthday of a very special guy!

a groom is hard to find

2010-12-05T20:56:00.000-06:00

A conversation between a girl and a boy...

"No one will play wedding with me!"

"I don't want to play wedding!"

"I want someone to play wedding with me."

"I don't want to do the kissing."

"I won't do the kiss. I will just do the regular dancing."

He ain't buyin.

Poor girl needs a sister.

we're going on a leaf hunt...

2010-12-02T20:02:00.000-06:00

thankful hearts

2010-11-25T21:39:00.002-06:00

embry

my puppy

playing games

mommy & daddy

hayes & ellie

karate

drawing

the airport

our beach house :)

blackwell

swinging

spiderman

ellie

minnie, nana, papaw, grandpa

my brothers

mommy & daddy

jude & jessie

jesus

when we go to the fair

coloring

my jewelry

pictures

seeing g.g.

playing on the i-phone

lipgloss

going to the pedicure

fruit snacks

hayes

legos

a home

food

clothes

mcdonald's

my parents

my lego book

god

birthdays

school

dinosaur museum

kyle

a god who loves and forgives

a wife who loves and forgives

children who are excited to see me every time

the privilege of pursuing a career that i enjoy

I attempted to capture some pictures of things I was thankful for throughout the day today.

I am guilty of getting caught up in all of the little things that seem to go wrong and letting those little things cloud a grateful heart. Now more than ever it seems like things are falling apart around us... whether it be something with the house or one of our cars. But ya know what? We have a house and we have two cars.

And they are just things. And things are temporary.

I'm deliberately making more of an effort to stop and remind myself of just how fortunate I am. I belong to a mighty and loving God, a mighty and loving God who has given me this precious little family to share life with. He's given us a safe place to call home, food for our bellies, air conditioning for when it is hot, heat for when it is cold, good health, fabulous friends and family, great schools, a wonderful church.

I'd say that is blessed. And thankful I am.

May you reflect on what is truly important today and take the time to thank God for each and every one.

Happy Thanksgiving!

sidenote: Something that I am not so thankful for is the decision I made to replace the lights on our Christmas tree. Do not, I repeat DO NOT ever think it is a good idea to strip a pre-lit tree of its lights that no longer work. It is a very bad idea and I have the blisters and bruises on my hands to prove it. Run as fast as you can to the nearest store and buy another tree!

can i get an amen on the weather today?

2010-11-22T20:52:00.001-06:00

she was glad to get her swing on.

super e is always up for an adventure.

i love the new smile.

and this... well, it reminded me of this....

august 2008

in a cornfield

2010-11-17T19:25:00.000-06:00

it makes me happy that art makes him happy.

kansas city getaway

2010-11-15T12:49:00.000-06:00

Kyle and I snuck away to Kansas City for a few days. We had a great time... we always do. We did lots of shopping, knocking out most of our Christmas list! Yay! We explored. We ate way too much yummy food. We met up with bloggy friends (Allison, John Michael and Jenna) and high school friends (Nick and Becky).

We visited Jamesport, an Amish community. What an experience that was. We did see buggies, but we saw more cars. :) We followed a map through the countryside. We discovered a dairy where we did some cheese-tasting, stopped at stores with beautiful furniture and loaded up at the cutest little bulk supply store ever. We also made a stop at a bakery, which could have passed for a scene out of a scary movie. No lights, creaky old floors, people watching you in the dark. I quickly lost my appetite for the sweets I bought.

We got some much-needed time for just the two of us. Now we're refreshed and ready to take on the world! Isn't that right , babe? :)

Thanks to all of the grands for taking care of our babes.

feelings of failure

2010-11-10T14:09:00.008-06:00

Seems like more often than not, I feel like I am failing while trying to be the best mom I can be. Did I discipline the wrong way? Could I have handled that situation better? Blah, blah, blah. I just read a book that taught me a lot and reminded me that it's not just me who experiences these feelings. We all feel this way. Nobody's perfect, right? So I am posting this prayer from Dr. Dobson so I can come back to it quickly when I'm feeling down in my role as Mommy.

"Lord, You know my inadequacies.
You know my weaknesses, not only in parenting, but in every area of my life.

I did the best I could, but it wasn't good enough.
As You broke the fishes and the loaves to feed the five thousand,

now take my meager effort and use it to bless my family.

Make up for the things I did wrong. Satisfy the needs that I have not satisfied.

Wrap Your great arms around my children, and draw them close to You.

And be there when they stand at the great crossroads between right and wrong.
All I can give is my best, and I've done that.

Therefore, I submit to you my children and myself and the job I did as a parent.
The outcome now belongs to you."

Philippians 3:13-14

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

toothless

2010-11-05T21:23:00.003-05:00

SOMEBODY snuck Hayes into the bathroom and pulled his first tooth out. I told Kyle I didn't think the tooth was loose enough, but I was wrong.
It came right out. You can see it took a couple of seconds for Hayes to warm up to the idea that he was missing a tooth. :)

We finished the night off with family movie time... what could be more appropriate than Tooth Fairy?

a fun weekend

2010-11-03T20:34:00.001-05:00

carving a pumpkin with papaw

getting our hair did at salon de ellie

cherry berry deliciousness

our favorite trick or treat spot ... GG's!

thanks Mom and Dad for helping turn our weekend into a good time!

trick or treat

2010-10-29T19:06:00.000-05:00

Here's a first for us. The kids got to go to the store and pick out whatever costumes they wanted... with no help or pleading from Mom. As you can see, we ended up with three dragons. Ellie threw on a necklace for a feminine touch. :) Even though it isn't what I would have chosen for them, I can't help but love that the two little ones wanted to be just like big brother. And I love that big brother was ok with that.

Happy Trick or Treating everyone!

a day in the life of...

2010-10-26T19:53:00.001-05:00

Today has been one of those laid-back kinda days.

One with the calm that was meant for us rather than the craziness of packed schedules we find ourselves in.

It felt good. I want more days like today.

enjoying some homemade granola.

nebulizer-cartoon time.

art table.

jelly smile.

daddy took a turn with storytime.

rare afternoon chill out.

loving my new s&p pots (wink, wink joy and diane.)

baked potato soup.

chipping away at my recipe book. yawn.

send-off.

pumpkins and popcorn

2010-10-26T00:25:00.000-05:00

We took advantage of Daddy being home tonight and carved our pumpkins. Don't tell Miss Elle, but Cindy-relly has a butchered arm or two

and some wacked-out eyes. FYI... Momma's not so good with carving tools and white pumpkins are a little tougher to cut.

I also attempted caramel corn for the first time. Oh yeah.

doughnut man

2010-10-22T16:36:00.000-05:00

Hayes and I got in the kitchen today and made doughnuts. We tried a new recipe from Food Allergy Mama so Embry could enjoy them with us.
We had fun mixing, cutting, frying and shaking them in cinnamon and sugar.

At one point Hayes asked if he could make a sign for our doughnut shop. After he made it, he headed outside...
I thought he was hanging it on the door. After he was gone for awhile, I went out to look for him. He was sitting on the curb holding his "Open Today" sign.
Cutest thing I have seen in awhile.

lunch date

2010-10-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

We've been missing our buddies so we decided to meet up in Stillwater for lunch and a walk on campus. Someday we'll be able to jump in the car and head to Joe's from the same direction. :) I love Stillwater. It's just got this small town college atmosphere that is hard to resist. The fact that I had to use my GPS once I got into town means it has been way too long. We're gonna have to make a regular date, girls! Thanks Katie and Paige for a fun day!

pumpkin patch

2010-10-17T11:57:00.000-05:00

We discovered the perfect little pumpkin patch the other day. It was a breathe of fresh air compared to the one we usually visit. We walked along the path of pumpkins, playing games until we reached the big hay maze. The owner took us through the garden, showing the kids all of the vegetables and herbs. Have you ever smelled chocolate mint? Yum! There is a beautiful, red barn (which you should know by now that I am a fan of a good barn. :)) filled with goodies to buy... like pumpkin butter. Double yum! There was also a petting zoo and a tractor available for hayrides. And the nicest people. Seriously nice.

Now to get the pumpkins out of my car that have been in there for three days.

peek a boo

2010-10-14T21:38:00.000-05:00

the boy turns 34 today.

2010-10-13T00:00:00.003-05:00

It may be that I am still in the high school reunion mindset, but all I can think about after this past weekend is how lucky I am

that you are the one I ended up with. We've done nothing but grow closer and stronger in this life we have together.

When I think about what I love most about you lately, I think of...

you getting up each morning with lack of sleep and never complaining about it

your fascination with sushi and lunchmeat

you snuggling on that awful couch with me while we watch tv

you braiding Ellie's hair

you happily making waffles for the kids

you allowing me, more like encouraging me to take alone time

your ability to fix any problem or at least knowing where to start

you dealing with all of the crap you deal with... way better than i ever could

you teaching Hayes to draw

you finding the humor in my cooking catastrophes

your fascination with those dang online 'deal' websites

you taking Embry on special jeep rides

you exploring your new passion of biking

your different voices that make us all laugh

you sitting down at the piano to unwind

your bedtime stories for the boys

your bedtime songs for the girl

you truly loving me for who i am

you dressing the kids on your own and bringing them to church to meet up with me

your fascination with drawing the perfect tattoo

you encouraging me to see past the things that get me down

I could go on and on, but you get the picture.

I like you. A lot.

Happy Birthday, birthday boy.

Love you.

you're beautiful

2010-10-03T13:19:00.000-05:00

I see you there hanging on a tree

You bled and then you died and then you rose again for me

Now you are sitting on Your heavenly throne

Soon we will be coming home

You're beautiful

When we arrive at eternity's shore

Where death is just a memory and tears are no more

We'll enter in as the wedding bells ring

Your bride will come together and we'll sing

You're beautiful

We love Phil Wickham's music at our house. I listen to it over and over. Even the kids love to sing it out. Well, this song has rocked my world twice lately.

Once, when I was driving early in the morning as the sun was coming up and last Sunday night at church.

Just thought I would share in case you need your world rocked. :)

once upon a time and a yo-ho-ho

2010-09-26T18:49:00.033-05:00

The moment you came into my world.

I had planned for the challenges that come with two babies at once, the exhaustion, the getting from one day to the next. But I had no idea the blessings that come with two babies at once. It has been an unbelievable experience being your mommy, watching you grow and learn together. The two of you couldn't be more opposite... but yet, so close to each other.

As I have been preparing for your birthday and trying to wrap my head around the fact that four years have already flown by, I have made more of an effort to hold each of you. I know it won't be much longer before you're too big, just like your big brother. As much as that kills this mommy's heart, I have to remind myself that the time with the two of you only gets better. It's a complete joy watching you guys grow up and explore big kid things. I am so proud of the little people you are becoming.

Happy Birthday, my Embry Jack.

I love you.

Happy Birthday, my Ellie Kate.

I love you.

We had a fun party this weekend. Pirates and Princesses. I felt like the party was over just as soon as it started. And unfortunately, my camera wasn't in my hand most of the time so there aren't many pics. Thanks to everyone who came and celebrated with us!

young rembrandt

2010-09-21T20:18:00.007-05:00

We read books each day after school. Sometimes Hayes is game and other times, not so much.
I totally get it though. He's been working all day and he just wants to play. Isn't that how we all are?

But he did get to have some fun today. He went to his first drawing class after school, Young Rembrandts. The boy is always drawing.
In fact, all of my kids seem to be. The kitchen table is a constant sea of paper, markers, scissors and crayons.
Seriously, three times a day before each meal, "You guys need to clean the table off so we can eat."
Annoying at times, but I love that they are so into it.

And this is the cutest little space duck that he made for me today. :)

sicky-poo

2010-09-13T21:37:00.001-05:00

What an angel baby.

Perfectly still.

Perfectly beautiful.

Perfectly at peace.
Mommy prays that tomorrow is a better day for you, sweet girl.

first day of school for the little people

2010-09-08T19:57:00.000-05:00

labor day weekend

2010-09-06T13:28:00.003-05:00

Our weekend roadtrip got off to a rough start Friday. I can't decide which part was my favorite:

-broken cruise control

-broken visor driving into the setting sun

-Embry not feeling well

-bumper to bumper traffic for an hour... well past bedtime

-giving my daughter a pull-up to pee in, thanks to aforementioned traffic

-finding two untouched cheeseburgers in the backseat when we finally got to the hotel

-finding melted orange sherbet all over the car seat when we finally got to the hotel

-forgetting my camera

But thankfully, Saturday was a new day and my phone has a camera. After we dropped Daddy off for a 24-hour shift at the hospital, we explored the town's awesome park. We stopped by a gas station for a treat. I couldn't help but laugh at the sight of us... kids in their pj's picking out candy at 8 in the morning. Let's not even talk about what I looked like. :)

We spent the afternoon at the Sam Noble Museum. The kids loved it and I'm so glad Hayes finally got to go see the dinosaurs!

We picked Kyle up on Sunday morning. Poor guy saw a ton of patients and was exhausted. After a rest back at the hotel, we met Amanda, Clint and Emerson for lunch. It was the first time to meet Clint after all these years! Amanda, you did good. :) Sure wish we lived closer to you guys.

We came back home to my parents rockin' out the bathroom tile. It looks so good and I can't wait 'til everything is finished! Thank you guys so much for working so hard. What a gift!

senorita

2010-08-28T20:12:00.000-05:00

Ellie has been on a Spanish-speaking kick lately. :)

rainy tuesday

2010-08-24T13:06:00.000-05:00

first day of dance

2010-08-20T13:11:00.000-05:00

Ellie has waited very patiently for this day.

She was so excited to finally get to wear her leotard and shoes and she just loved her ballet/tap class.

Having two little girlfriends in her class (Claire & Hannah) makes it even more special!

looking back...

2010-08-18T18:22:00.001-05:00

June 2007

Hayes had a first today.

He went into the boys' locker room before swimming lessons all by himself... found a locker, got dressed and headed out to class. After class, we waited for him while he dried off and got dressed. Well, I thought he got dressed.

It wasn't until we were at the car that I realized he had taken his swimsuit off and not put any shorts on. "Well Mom, I covered myself up with the towel!" I sure hope so, sweetie.

Which led to Embry's question on the way home. "Hayes, is your wiener bigger than mine?"

first grade, here we come!

2010-08-12T11:09:00.001-05:00

Such a proud Mom! (See, he's too big for me to say Mommy now. Sigh.) Hayes was so excited about starting first grade. No hesitation whatsoever walking into his new classroom. His teacher, Mrs. Ellis seems like a sweetheart.

Here's to a good year full of new friendships, lots of learning and fun!

Seriously took about 30 pictures to get three rectangle mouths.

Oh well, looking at the past years, a trend of goofy seems to be taking shape. Can you say forced smile? :)

2009

2008

dressed up

2010-08-09T11:38:00.000-05:00

favorite part of the night. hands down.

twelve years

2010-08-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Anniversary to the one who stands by my side...
picking me up when I need it most.

Where would I be without you?

Where would you be without me?

Let's not ever find out, 'kay?

Love you long time.

road trip

2010-08-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

just like Daddy...

We jumped in the car with some friends and headed to a children's museum. So cool! I was so impressed at the amount of fun stuff this place offers. This museum has been on our summer to-do list for two years now. So glad we finally visited!

Thanks Laura, Andrew and Josh for exploring with us!

parkpalooza

2010-07-27T20:40:00.001-05:00

We plotted. We played. We conquered.

We were on a misson this summer to visit each of the parks in town.

All 22 of 'em.

We brought them to their knees... or vice versa.

We would hit two or three each morning, depending on heat and sibling compatibility.

And there was always a Sonic stop thrown in.

It was really quite the fun, little adventure. We discovered parts of our city that we never would have otherwise. The kids enjoyed the exploring while I enjoyed taking pictures...

and of course, checking each one off the map. :)

We really do have some great parks around here!

one-on-one time

2010-07-26T21:04:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that summer is coming to an end. We just finished up our last round of one-on-one time. We had Embry all to ourselves this final time and it was just pure Happy Jack joy.

He is such a sweet boy.

Everyone is back home now. And the chaos has since resumed.

Now, when does school start again??

Thanks Minnie, Papaw, Nana and Grandpa for showering Hayes, Embry and Ellie with lots of attention and goodies. You made it possible for each kiddo to feel extra-special this summer.

**Like the new look? I am so excited! Still have some things to fix, but there's a boy upstairs calling me for a movie. :)**

happy jack's turn

2010-07-19T14:32:00.002-05:00

Another excited, little boy. An afternoon of Wii, Chuck E Cheese games and Toys R Us. These kids sure do like time with their Daddy. Who can blame 'em? I do too. :)

time with my big boy

2010-07-14T20:29:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed my day with Hayes today. This morning, we went bowling... it didn't go so well. He got upset that he wasn't any good and was mad at me for getting (accidentally, I assure you) a spare.

We worked on tying shoes... it didn't go so well. He got upset that he wasn't any good and was mad at me because I wouldn't let him give up.

Do we see a pattern here? :)

This evening, we went out for Subway and snowcones. He loved Subway and really liked choosing what went on his sandwich. The boy ate an entire 6-inch turkey and salami sandwich... and a bag of chips.

On the way to the snowcone shack, we ran through the bank drive-thru. "Mom, just try not to get into trouble again, okay?"

Snowcones were yummy, of course. He requested that we both get the same... army men green. :)

Love that boy.

boys night out...

2010-07-12T18:55:00.002-05:00

One excited, little boy. He's been looking forward to his movie date with Daddy all day long.

a day in the life of...

2010-07-09T19:37:00.002-05:00

Glimpses of our day today in photos. My friend, Allison does something like this and I just love how pictures throughout an ordinary day can say so much.

It was a little more work than I thought it would be... and I got in trouble when I snapped a picture at the bank drive-thru. Apparently, there are security issues. Oops.

Doing this also made me look at the day in a completely different light. Searching for the little beauties in the day that I typically take for granted.

rainy morning.

surprise of a clean playroom.

insert bow in hair.

bounce u fun!

lunch with our buddies.

recycling stacks and stacks of paper.

flower girl.

strawberry pie...

which led to this.

storytime.

playtime.

mommy time. :)

rocky mountain high... in pictures

2010-07-02T13:58:00.001-05:00

rocky mountain high

2010-06-30T14:36:00.003-05:00

So, it's been a week since our Colorado trip came to an end... still no picture post, thanks to a missing (temporarily, I hope) memory stick and the kids and I getting out of the house for summer fun. But here's one of my favorites.

Minnie and Papaw treated us to a week in the Summit County area and we had an absolute blast.

It was the first time our kids saw the mountains.

It was the first time Kyle went jeeping.

It was the first time I went jeeping since becoming a mom. And let's just say that at one point, if there had been a Scotty, I wish he would have beamed me the freak up. Something inside of me has changed and I was a bit um, anxious with my babies up on those high shelf roads. I didn't like it so much.

Thankfully, there is so much more to do in the mountains. We shopped, took a pontoon boat out on Lake Dillon, fished (the big boys attempted fly fishing), played in the stream, rode the alpine slides and the kids watched Toy Story 3 with Minnie.

And from the way Kyle has fallen in the love with the mountains, it looks like we will see many more Colorado summers in our future.

Thanks Mom and Dad for an amazing trip! Love you.

Pictures to follow... someday. :)

looking back...

2010-06-09T20:21:00.003-05:00

June 2007

My Happy Jack and his thumb. Makes me want another baby. No it doesn't. Yes it does. No it doesn't. Yes it does. Ahhhhh... somebody slap me!

sunday afternoon

2010-06-06T21:21:00.002-05:00

painting our piggies

2010-06-03T17:06:00.002-05:00

Ellie went to the nail salon with me for the first time today. It was so cute to watch her across the room, asking the lady a million questions. She thought she was pretty big stuff. We'll just forget the part where her toes get messed up before we even get out the door. :)

daddy's girl

2010-06-02T21:06:00.001-05:00

Ellie had a date with Daddy tonight. She was just a wee bit excited. :)

They dined on donuts and then hit Target for some shopping. She came home with a sack full of pink.

To see them together makes my heart happy.

The boys are hanging out in Blackwell this week (Hayes with Minnie & Papaw, Embry with Nana & Grandpa). By the end of the summer, we should all have spent some one-on-one time with each kiddo.

We're really enjoying the time with our girl.

sweaty goodness

2010-05-27T20:47:00.002-05:00

budding artist

2010-05-25T10:17:00.001-05:00

I've got a little girl who likes to draw. Is that not the cutest little pink creature you have ever seen? :) I love seeing what their little hands create. And it's always fun when your kids surprise you with something you didn't know they could do. Ellie brought me this picture... first time she wrote her name!