Little Remembers of Big Times

January 5

2012-01-05T16:29:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for small excitements! H has lost his first tooth. Being one of the youngest in his class means sometimes he has to wait forever for milestones! Last week on the way to TN he exclaimed, "I have a wiggly tooth!" He was so excited! Today he went home from school with JP and as they were jumping on the new trampoline, it all of the sudden was in his mouth. They came running into the house so frantically that SP thought something must be terribly wrong!! H called to tell me and went on to tell L and Ek too. When we all got together tonight we celebrated by singing "Happy Losing your first tooth day to you..." and ate ice cream sundays. It was really fun to celebrate with my precious growing boy. And here he is with oreo crumbs to decorate his new mouth...

2012-01-05T16:28:00.001-08:00

January 3

2012-01-03T14:08:00.001-08:00

Today as I was reading Genesis, I was so impressed by how well God knew Noah and saw him as an individual. He walked with him, knew him and saw his heart. And he also saw his progress on the ark and waited until it was done before the flood began. Even then, he gave him 7 days to get loaded up. (we would need a week for sure). And today, I am thankful to be know by God and I'm so thankful He knows them, but I'm also thankful I get to know them-- seeing their hearts, seeing them grow and progress, it's really wonderful.

January 2

2012-01-03T14:00:00.001-08:00

So thankful today for girls who still love a tea party in full costume with crowns. They shared tea, Ek on glass and L in plastic all afternoon, compete with cookies. The party was only briefly interrupted when a ball accidentally fell in the middle of the table, but they gracefully cleaned it up and carried on. They are precious.

January 1

2012-01-03T06:05:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for the Word of God. We just got home from a 5 day amazing road trip. As we drove I finished up our reading for 2011. We stopped and bought our new chronological one year Bibles and started those today. Now John and I have matching bikes, cars and Bibles. Looking forward to a sweet year of fellowship.

Days

2011-09-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

We are settled into school pretty well right now. Settling into a busy daily routine. I wake them with kisses and try to gently get them downstairs for breakfast, getting dressed, brushing teeth and getting to the car. J has been trying to come to the kitchen during our routine and read a devotional to them while they are about their business. On the ride to school we talk about and practice their Bible verses. L has finally stopped praying for God to help me while I'm home alone, but they do commonly ask what I will do. I get L at noon but most days she really just wants to go out to lunch with a friend. Several days the disappointment as been long and tiring when we come home, but many days we have enjoyed a few hours here to play and read. She is requesting that J pick her up one day and take her to lunch all by herself and then I come to get her so J can return to work. The afternoons are filled with reading, math facts and spelling words; soccer and dance, choir and soon a piano lesson; we really try to eat at home when we can which some days is at 4:45 :) We have had the most fun taking time with each of them for their devotional instead of meeting all together. They are so calm and attentive when we lay down with each one. H has started being able to read the young Bible stories and he had the most amazing conversation with J the other night that J has got to write about. Life is busy but sweet.

Sweet conversations

2011-09-14T06:34:00.001-07:00

The other night, L and i were reading about Jonah. In her sweet young version, there was a great emphasis on obeying God. So I asked Lauren, "do you want to obey God?" she nodded her sweet little head. I asked, "so what do you need to do to obey God?" Her reply was slow and deliberate: "Be thankful, be kind, be generous, love." We prayed and asked God to help us both obey.

Yesterday I asked Ek the same questions, her reply was quick and bouncy, like she was on a game show: "read the Bible, praise Him, worship Him!!!" Oh Lord, please help us. We talked for most of the car ride to school today about living here with the expectation of what we think we will live like in Heaven, peaceful, trusting, thanking, praising, loving. And L's sweet verse, Psalm 23:1 reminded us that Jesus will take care of us along our way today. I hope they are having a great day at school.

Swimmin

2011-06-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Although one of the busiest for me, swimming lessons is 2 of the most fun weeks of the whole year. I'm not sure if there is any other 2 weeks that I see bigger improvement in any thing for all 3 of my kids-- this year was no exception.

Ronda kept saying what a hard worker Ek was. She really loves swimming and really took her lessons seriously and worked diligently on everything that she asked of her.
She worked on her freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke and dives. Super proud of that girl!
It was amazing to see how captivated the boys were by Ronda, they did not miss a word she said.
H worked on his freestyle, which is so strong, backstroke, underwater swimming and he even learned a running jumping dive off the diving board. Way to go H!

L's only regret was that she was last, it seemed like the longest morning of her life every day.
I loved how much H and Ek enjoyed watching her. Ek kept asking me to ask Ronda if she could get in and help. L made huge progress in her comfort level in the water. She got to where she was retreiving rings off the bottom all by herself. It was quite dramatic. She would drop the ring and watch it go, take a big breath and puff out her cheeks, purse her lips, reach down to get her ring, bouce up with a dramatic release of her breath and wipe her eyes clean. over and over. So so proud of her!
Blowing bubbles.
Our only regret was to miss the last day to get our tonsils out. But much more swimming fun is just around the corner!!

Home on the farm

2011-06-22T08:51:00.003-07:00

Every time we have gone to get Sam dog food, John has admired the farm animals and wanted to get "H some new animals." Well, I didn't let him. Saturday morning, J wanted to get H out and take him to pick out some new animals for his birthday. So I told H to gather all his animals that he already had so he would know what he wanted. Since then, the kids have been playing farm non-stop. For the last 2 summers, they played Little People constantly so I guess this is the summer game. They have gotten out blocks for fences and stables, Barbies for their people, and a variety of vehicles to fully support their game. The living room has been taken over. As always though, the building is the fun part so occasionally I make them take it all down so they cans start over. Mostly, the play is peaceful and full of laughs. And occasionally we must stop and separate for a while. But it is really really fun to see and hear them all playing together and hear what the latest story line is-- a fundraiser to buy a new farm or all loading up for a horse race.

Slow down!!!

2011-06-22T06:13:00.000-07:00

Two days before surgery, we had basketball camp times one, swimming lessons times 3, ENT appointment times one, preop times two including blood!, swimming with friends times three and Chick fil A times four (I was hungry!), then... L fell asleep on the way home with 2 chicken nuggets left to go on her lap in the car at 6:30. Maybe we needed surgery to slow us down a bit!! PS she slept until 6:30 the next morning. PPS and felt great! next up, what we've been up to at home...

Brave H and L

2011-06-22T05:50:00.001-07:00

H and L both had their tonsils out last week. on the same morning. one after the other. There were really amazing and I am so glad it is done. 3 kids, no tonsils. They were a bit scared when we first got there and during pr-eop until they had their "juice," but after that the rest of the day really went amazingly well. They neither remember the tragic waking up from anesthesia but both remember waking up peacefully in our 5th floor room. L was asleep on my chest, woke up and said:

L: where is that man?

me: oh, he is working. (no idea)

L: gasp, where is H??.

me: right there, pointing.

L: oh, why is the door so big?

me: so they can get beds in and out.

L: oh, what is that? (pointing to IV pole)

me: oh that is what give you something to drink while you asleep.

content with my answers, she laid back down on my chest and went back to sleep.

H woke up and called John over, "hey daddy, come here, I have a surprise."

J went over and got close and H pulled him in and gave him a big hug and a kiss.

what is not to love about that.

We spent the afternoon cuddling, reading and watching cartoons. oh and eating multiple ice creams, manilla, orange sherbet, Popsicles and powerade. We got dismissed about 5 and went home and tried to fill their empty tummies. They have done great and we can't wait to get back full steam to summer. Actually it is kinda nice to not be full steam. more on that later...

Today

2011-04-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

L had a very amazing day today. She was accompanied by H's best bud WG to K4 for bring a friend to school week. Wow. Could life get any better for a girl who cries several times a week for her brother and sissie when they leave her for school? She gave me the tightest squeeze and didn't consider looking back as she walked into the K building holding H's hand. Even when the teacher said, "L, say bye to mom," she was still moving too fast to look back. I got an email mid-day from our beloved Mrs. S saying that she was having a great day- all smiles and giggles, but when she got into the car, Mrs. S spelled t.i.r.e.d. And she remained that way for the rest of the day. The low point of the day was when she was trying to convince me that today was not today and that she could actually go back to school tomorrow because today was not today. She wanted today to be yesterday so tomorrow would be today and she could go again. wow, try arguing with a tired, i mean tired, 3 year old over that one. She kept saying 'but today is not today.' me in the front seat- speechless. Probably not the time to remind her of Psalm 118:24, This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it-- but next time I may try. Totally worth it though to give my sweet girl a day that she dreams of- when she is at school with her brother and sissy. And I admit, I felt so peaceful today knowing they were all there together. It will be here very soon.

Back to the ball field!!!

2011-04-26T17:59:00.002-07:00

We were so excited tonight to start back to t-ball and softball.

Both kids are Florida Marlins, although on different teams. It took me a while to get all of Ek's bows tied, there are 4, and gather H's pants, belt and the cleats. J is coaching Ek's team so I watched all of H's game and then we went to Ek's game but only got to see about 1 inning. The tball coaches were very zealous and the softball called it early. My report of H's game was that he was so excited, he stayed alert and didn't really let any balls go by, he stopped the ball well and listened well to where it needed to go (please note the ball in his glove here..., he hit the ball strong and, of course, loved running the bases, he had a great time with his friends too. I loved watching him, he did occasionally look over to me and I would give him a big smile and thumbs up. L was a great fan, she had several friends to play with, and eat snacks with, and was very pleasant and sweet. Ek seemed to have a great time as well. She was very alert but I didn't get to see any balls come to her. She did hit the ball well, they did have a former professional ball player pitching it to them, that helped I'm sure. CG told her mom she had fun too in her debut game, she said the action from catching to throwing was 'just like a kick-ball-change in tap.' One thing makes us stronger for the next! 9 more games, can't wait!!

EK's take

2011-04-14T18:05:00.000-07:00

Ek got in the car yesterday so excited about what she had been working on. She had made a book about our trip. She only had one page to go, but then added 2 more pages when got home. She likes to pull the big wagon out into the driveway on a pretty day, added towels for padding and sit in the wagon with container lid across the sides to make a desk. She even went for a walk the other day while coloring. Anyway, I loved the book. Love seeing her take on the trip. I especially like the dolphin, the castle on the beach and that she included J and H playing basketball, please note the girls are not playing, its true.

I'm glad we were smiling throughout, even going home...

Ahhh the boat ride HHI day 2

2011-04-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

Most definitely not the best boat ride ever. I mean, that would mean topping a sunset cruise with 2 sunsets in one night with mo- town music playing and dancing in the floor board, or going super fast with my kids hair blowing in the breeze and ice cream stuck to their chins, or that first boat ride on the Lake of the summer. Or those awesome rides in the fishing boat that you got wet from the wake on a good turn! Even better at dawn in old wind breakers on the way to lake church. Yeah, those cannot be topped. This one was really great though. A first for me to be out in the intercoastal waterways like this. And wowie wow wow-- dolphins!!

such a surreal moment- a dolphin literally popping his head up, practically leaning against our boat and smiling at us, yes, smiling. a. maz. zing.

that is a picture of a boy happy with his father

and that is a boy happy to be let loose to climb all over a boat

(thank goodness I remember the life vests)

if L is ever having a bad hair day, she needs to head to the coast and get on a boat (this is not true of many of us) here she is checking out the mud minnow getting on the hook

the thought of this moment got J through a lot of days the last couple of weeks

ocean+ family+ Jesus loving captain+ fishing= happy day

great moment

wow, even i was on vacation if i let my kids drink coke, must be documented

what a smile

Ek found a right time and place to break it down a bit

awesome time with Capt Bill

yep, awesome

Day 1 HHI

2011-04-12T15:53:00.000-07:00

So thankful to have been able to get away this weekend with these precious people and their amazing Daddy.

We started out our weekend with some swimming the indoor pool. They all jumped right in with their new goggles and flippers and took off. I loved to see them pick right up where the left off last summer. We got out, took a shower and headed to Salty Dog. Unfortunately the wait was 1 1/2 hours, and fortunately they had the grill fired up on the deck so we ate grilled salmon sandwiches and hamburgers. Then we picked out our new shirts. L and Ek had pink ones, so L decided upon purple and I asked Ek if she wanted to match L and she said, "no, I really just want pink." H picked black. This process took about 1 minute. L feel asleep in the car on the way back and quickly tucked into her roll away cot. Ek and H snuck out to the beach with their daddy to see the beach and play a bit of basketball. And that was day 1. Much more from Friday later.

Ek looking at the water while waiting for dinner

L and my self portrait with a bit too much zoom

A very tired H with his Salty Dog Sprite

my Top Chef

2011-03-31T06:33:00.000-07:00

This morning as a spring break opportunity, I decided to get out the kids cookbook, compliments of Mopsy, and let them choose something to make. By 8am, Ek had our whole day's menu planned beginning with cinnamon muffins. H was already involved in a movie so he came during commercial breaks to "help." L was a pretty steady "helper" as well, but Ek was defnately the top chef. She read the recipe very well, understood the fractions and learned the difference between cup and teaspoon, thankfully. I got some pics while she was dipping the muffins into butter and rolling them in cinnamon sugar.

The best part--- I think they all liked them (and the last scene of Toy Story where all of their eyes are glued, as well).

I want to think this way...

2011-03-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

on the way to school today...

L: are the H's moving to Tennessee today?

me: no, not today sweetie.

L: when are they moving to TN?

me: i don't know sweetie, it won't be for a while.

L: are they moving when Jesus says its time?

me: yes, that is just right.

L: mommy, when they move to TN, I want to go stay at their house for a while.

me: me too, L, we will.

love her.

Refreshing Encouragment

2011-03-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

After the race, the parade, lunch at Brian's subs, J's first canine eye consult and a nap for 4 out of 7 of us, the kids were really anxious to get wet, they very easily persuaded us that the sprinklers should be the next great part of our day. You know, winter is cold. Not much sunshine. You just kinda endure outside until you can get back inside. Then all of the sudden, you can't get enough sunshine. You can hardly make yourself go inside. It's like there is hope again that you really don't like to sit around inside all stuffy and cold. You really do like to get out and have some fun. Encouragement. Today being outside running, smiling, laughing, catching candy from paraders, and getting a cold burst of water to cool you off was so refreshing. Mom talked several times this weekend about what encouragement means. We can endure anything with encouragement. We just need to hear that we are loved, that we are on the right path, that we are going to make it, that things are going to be better. I think of the Psalms when David pleaded, "take not your spirit from me." We know in the New Covenant, by the blood of Christ that the Spirit is ours forever, but we sure can make Him quiet. And then, we confess, we pray, we repent, we seek and we hear. It feels like running through sprinklers on a warm day after a cold winter. Refreshing to feel the warmth, refreshing to appreciate the cool, and a rush to feel your heart beating. "Sanctify us in your truth Lord, your Word is truth. " (John 17:17)

H actually ran through the sprinklers whereas L preferred to run close to them. She did get wet some and I think she was having just as much fun!

Finishing the race

2011-03-20T16:44:00.001-07:00

I love the Road Race on Super Saturday here. J ran it our first year here, he ran the 5k. Dad came and mom was on Walk to Emmaus. L was in my belly. It was so terribly windy and cold. H and Ek were all bundled up in blankets in the stroller and were quite confused and a bit annoyed at the whole thing, it was cold. We hid behind Belk's to try to block some wind. Fast forward 4 years.

I picked up 7 race packets on Friday. 5 fun run entries and 2 10ks. 7 orange t-shirts. I don't think I have ever had an orange t-shirt in my life. I can pretty much guarantee J never has. We all 7 made the trip around the mall. Ek ran until her sweet face turned a beautiful pink but never once whined or asked to stop, I think every year she likes very much to run past all the older boys who sprint and stop, and we just cruise on by. We finished in 10:01. Wow! H and J finished about :30 later, no stopping either! Wow! L never stopped nor started. She was a bit intimidated and rode the whole way in either arms or shoulders. Precious thing. She was in very good company. J and I quickly made our way to the next start line and were very quickly off to the 10k. The weather was a warm 50+ with bright sunshine. We were very pleased with our times of 44 and change and I was just under 51. We think our whole running group set PRs in heart rates. The course had a turn around and I was so happy to see all of his running group staying so strong, oh and SP in the middle, I mean at the front of them. J said he was a bit light headed crossing the finish line and I am so sore today I could barely walk. And yet, still worth it. There is nothing quite like accomplishing a goal with people you love. And even though we all finished at different times, it all felt like we had crossed together. I think that is totally what Heaven will feel like. Without the soreness.

St Patrick's Day Happy moments

2011-03-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

There were a lot of happy moments today. Here are a few...

L and I spent the day at home "cleaning." She was, at times, as helpful as yesterday, at other times, not so much. After school, we went back to school to cheer HH onto a strong tennis victory. And watched a bit of soccer, saw the girls score a great goal. And played on the playground. Then, when J finished up work, we went to the Pancake supper. Forgot my syrup this year, but it was still good. Actually probably good I forgot my syrup.

At the playground. Did you know H could go all the way across on monkey bars? He can!

H and his amazing friend W. H with his cool smile.

What in the world are we going to do with these 2?

Keep them forever and love them, obviously, but I have a feeling our hands are full with these. They were standing and having this big teenage conversation, sipping their drinks with their hands on their hips. Ek's just got them to turn towards her for the picture.

On the way to the Pancake supper, these sweeties were in front of me...

and these strong boys were behind. Oh the love.

L's wacky day at preschool

2011-03-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

I know i said last night that I would write about the Orlando trip today, but how could I possibly do that when I got to spend the day with this adorable little girl?

I had some sewing to do today for church and she was the most delightful thing to keep me company. I can hardly describe what she did because she just talked, ate her lunch, danced and literally just hung around. I tried to convince her to get something to do while I worked, to do right beside me, but she never wanted to, she just hung out. It was quite delightful. So at one point I grabbled my camera and took these, I was sitting at the little red table sewing and this is where she hung out.

Note to self, she can go from this face...

to this face...

very easily. do not be too easily deceived. hahaha

here she demonstrating her point...

to triangle from dance class. Lovely, darling, lovely.

Watch week! Horray!

2011-03-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love watch week at dance. I love to see into my kids worlds! The girls have been having a blast at dance lately. Ek has 5 recital dances and has been practicing them at home, it was so fun to see it with her class. Her teachers are teaching them so much and seem to really have a vision for where they are taking them. Ek seems very happy about what she is learning. Interestingly her favorite class is the class they are pushed the hardest in because it is for the girls that are considering trying out for the competing company. She seems to have really nice girls in her class, and was asking to play with several after class. Fun, fun, fun. Ek has on the bright pink top and light pink shorts...

L was a hoot in her class. She was perfectly happy as long as I was less than one foot away. H was the official photographer in between games on the ipod. (I tell you, that boy was a trooper to watch 2 1/2 hours of dance last week!) L's class was amazing! Who knew 3 year old ballet could be so fun!! The danced with scarves, umbrellas, pretend babies and danced on a pretend beach. L said they do the baby song every week. Her recital song is Barry Manilow's "Can't smile without you." fabulous. She did the her recital dance quite well actually but did interject a few extra twirls (and if you had on her skirt, you would have too!!). I was bubbling over with joy to see her having so much fun dancing.

I can't help but think of what Mom's said when we were in Orlando (oh that should be tomorrow's post!!), she said she hopes that the girls would have great confidence and joy to not only dance in dance class but also to have confidence to lift their hands in freedom before the Lord. Amen, Mom.

Saving

2011-03-13T16:37:00.000-07:00

Friday morning, Ek came to our bed at 5:15 with a report that she had just woken up with one less tooth. Her other front tooth was out! How you loose a tooth in your sleep and do not swallow it takes amazing skill. She was very excited. L followed her to our bed and amazingly, they both fell asleep flanking J. I got up. She had added it to her "special box" to continue saving for them to all be lost. I was thinking she was wanting an American Doll with her tooth saving, but she reported that now she is saving for an Ipod Touch. yikes. I guess she thinks her teeth are pretty valuable. Considering I may have 2 more years to go before she turns in her teeth, I guess I have some time to start saving myself.

In this picture you are actually seeing bottom teeth there in the middle.

No more pacis!!!

2011-03-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

I'll never forget the day that L was a tiny little thing and I realized that "ba" was "paci" in her baby babble. I was so delighted to know what in the world she wanted! I wasn't too anxious to get rid of it, I wanted to~ but I didn't. After all it, kept her quiet in the car and, gracious, she is in the car a lot! But it was time. We talked about it a lot, she wanted to get rid of it, but she didn't. So I was praying and waiting for just the right time. Here's how it went down. I don't think I can write a "How to get rid of a paci book" from my experiences. We put her to bed and she didn't yet realize there was not one in bed with her. I went to take a bath, rare, very rare for me to take a night bath. J got a call from on of our friends that he had been hit in the face with a crock pot and thought he needed stitches. Moments later, L appears in the bathroom. She realized the paci void in her bed. I told her the last place I had seen it was in the car. She looked, couldn't find it. I told her I would look. Couldn't find one. So there you have it. No more pacis! I then told the kids I'd pay them $5 for any paci found without L seeing it. She has done really great, she is over it now. Not napping too well. Sleeping great. She seems much more peaceful without it around the house. J and I confess sometimes we still wish she had it in the car. haha Sometimes in the car though she will talk and talk and tell us, and ask us, everything she can think of, that is pretty entertaining. She is a precious thing.

Remembering the Snow day

2011-03-12T08:01:00.000-08:00

So here's the deal. I have been having a camera crisis. I could not get the pictures from my camera to the computer and its just no fun to write without pictures! Then several days ago, I was at the P's and I saw JP put his card in a card reader and download his pictures to the computer. The clouds opened up. I now had the solution. I bought a $8 solution to my 5 month problem. But that one didn't work. So I bought a $13 solution to the $8 problem and- low and behold- it worked!!! ahhhhh. I love a solved problem. So here come some pictures!!!

So back to the snow. (really has it been that long???) We had a good bit of snow on a Monday morning back in January. The kids got dressed and rushed right out but it was kinda raining by then. So they got their umbrellas and made an umbrella fort to play in. Ek made 2 little snow men, key word, little, but little is adorable, and she was proud of herself. With my kids, better than the snow is the post snow hot chocolate. And it was all fun and games until the electricity went out. After several hours, I started to get a bit anxious that the kids were getting cold, Ek was walking around the house bundled in a blanket and they were getting hungry. I put observed skills to work of watching Dad make many fires and got one going. J came to the rescue with more firewood when he came home for lunch. We did manage to pull together some food and the electricity finally came back on. J was commenting on how many crumbs they had made eating a snack and I reminded J that we had eaten by candlelight. So thankful to look out my window today, and see 70 degrees and sunshine!!

the snow man's home amongst the popsicles and sweet potato fries...

can't you see the "ahhhhhh" in H's eyes?

PS J was super impressed with my fire skills, he asked if I had been a girl scout! hahaha

I gave all the credit to my Dad.

Run! Run! Run! Run! Run!

2011-03-12T07:49:00.000-08:00

We went on our first family run yesterday with all 5 of us running! H is running really strong, he ran a mile. Ek is working on her confidence in running. L was so joyful and happy to be a part of it. J took the stroller in case L gave out. She ran about 1/3 mile before she started having stomach pain, but she didn't want to ride, she would walk a minute and try again. She was quite adorable, when she got home and we asked her how far she had run, she said "6 miles". It was fun to be out, talking, laughing, encouraging one another.

I hope we will always run this race together~~~ Therefore brothers, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every weight and the sin which so easily entangles, and run the race with endurance that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our our faith, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, despising its shame and is seated at the right hand of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (from memory so its probably a combo of several translations)

Hungry?

2011-01-12T17:41:00.001-08:00

We are Daniel Fasting again. Our church begins every new year this way. It has proven the last 2 years to be a time to live with purpose and intention in our lives. I'm excited as I have been in years past to live with a few weeks of expectancy and eagerness to hear new revelation. And would you believe that Monday morning, the first morning of the fast, began with reading

"But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:4

Well that is a good way to start a fast. I mean really. And although I have heard and read that verse countless times, as I was writing a summary of it, it was all new. I love it when that happens. And I confess I never really got this verse, I knew it meant we needed God's word in our daily life, but past that, I just didn't have much. Then Monday out came: We were not just created by God for our physical lives that is satisfied and sustained by food, but we were also created for a spiritual life that is not satisfied and sustained by physical food. So real life, a life that is all that it is meant to be, longs for more than physical bread but also for the bread of life, the word of God.

We also need the bread we eat in remembrance of the death of our Savior, a remembrance of His broken body.

And while I'm at it we also need the living water, the presence of Jesus, that satisfies our thirst of being known and understood.

And while I'm at it, it will be quite sweet to also stand alongside the water that flows from the throne of God and eat from the fruit that grows there where all our diseases will be healed.

So yes, I really need bread to live, but I also need the nourishment that comes from revelation of His words to live.

And many thanks to whichever child took this picture of me eating a hot dog for while standing, real nutritious, seems like I went upstairs to get PJs while I was eating it.

L's take

2011-01-10T17:43:00.000-08:00

Speaking of their own take... L was trying to take a self-timer shot of she and Sally the other day. what can I say.

Here was the shot she wanted, I helped.

Ek's take on the whole thing

2011-01-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

Ek played extensively with my ipod while awaiting her surgery. She took about 50 pictures of her room.

She was looking at them today and said she took them for H and L to see where she was, to see what her room looked like. "It wasn't really much of a room, she said." hahaha True, but mom and I decided it was much better than being on the floor with everyone from the surrounding counties flu germs all over our nurse. And speaking of mom, sweet mom, she spent quite a bit of time in hospital rooms this Christmas. But both really good outcomes. She's a great Mopsy.

All for EK's new and improved airway

2011-01-10T12:21:00.000-08:00

The Monday after Christmas, I was looking forward to a week of fun, then we saw the ENT. He said he could take out Ek's tonsils and adenoids any Tuesday or Thursday we wanted. How bout this Thursday? sure. So all of the sudden we were straight from Christmas to pre-op. Ek was a-maz-zing. She was so peaceful and trusting. The absolute worst moment was having her preop blood drawn. I didn't prepare her well, or at all, because I wasn't sure what they would do. She was sitting there so brave and mouthed to me 'what are they doing?' not a happy moment. The day of surgery, she never once complained, whined or was scared.

I realize that she came a trusting, peaceful little person, I wish I could bottle that. The second worst moment was when she woke up, crying in pain. Thankfully after the pain medicine and a nap (breathing through her nose- wow), she was good from then on. She slept on a off and they woke up hungry. When we were discharged and on our way to the ice cream shop. I turned around to tell her what her choices were and turned her dry erase board to reveal a picture of the word "purple" and a huge dinosaur. That was a good one. We got her home and all snuggled into my bed with Julie and her nice little tray. I couldn't feed her enough and then she slept wonderfully, with me. She tried to move into my bed permanently but I through 2 nights were enough. I am so thankful that it was a non-event in our lives. She was peaceful, easy and cooperative. She is breathing better, sleeping better, he voice is a bit higher and she lost that loose tooth that anesthesia gave an extra bump to.

Christmas morning

2011-01-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

Ahhhhh Christmas morning. J and I were up late getting ready. H was first in our bed and asked if Santa came. I was sorry to disappoint him, but I did. He wasn't disappointed for long. When L and Ek got up, we talked for a while, read scripture and prayed. I love that the kids were not anxious at all to get to their presents. L got a baby doll stroller and high chair and her pink motorcycle. H got lego people, an air hockey table and the Wii. Ek got Kit's bed, a lego house and a ballerina jewelry box. She was pretty easy to please since she said she had already gotten all she wanted for Christmas Eve since Grandma had given her the Julie doll. The kids could not believe we gave them a Wii. "Is it ours?? Do we get to keep it??," was Ek's response. Thankfully J had it already hooked up and ready to go. Because we did. For the rest of the day.

We really had a wonderful time being together, playing, laughing and encouraging.

We loved giving birthday balloons to Jesus and decorating birthday cupcakes too. Really cool this year to have traveled to meet MG. We felt a bit like wise men, but our traveling was a bit easier. But we seek to live lives with great expectation to see miracles and long to follow God's leading.

Precious time

2011-01-10T11:56:00.000-08:00

How can words describe the joy of meeting MG? Ok, I'll try. We were so blessed to be in G'ville when sweet baby MG was to arrive. I could not wait to see the reaction of her brothers. I knew her mommy and daddy would be so smitten they wouldn't be able to stand it. I envision W being like his daddy, protective, kind and so loving. I have a feeling D will learn from W to be the same. They were cautiously excited. She came so beautiful and perfect. Perfect little features and so gorgeous. And so tiny. We could have stared at her for days. Its amazing how fragile and tiny we come.

I loved how when Ek held her, they all crowded around and she was the absolute center of attention. As well she should be. I love that, in this moment, Ek was as happy as could be, as she was any time she got to hold her, L and D are laughing at each other, as they like so much to do!, H's mouth is still a bit numb from his cavity fillings, and

Will popped in to make it a perfect picture of mom and dad's 3 grandboys and 3 grandgirls.

L didn't quite know what to think of her. She kinda cradled her hands and was very gentle. Although she wasn't sure, she knew this was a fragile thing.

It was just absolutely perfectly wonderful to be with her. I know she has changed a ton and I wish we could see her everyday.

Christmas programs

2011-01-10T11:45:00.002-08:00

I love going to my kids schools, when they are there, of course. I love to see them sing so much. This Christmas they sang so wonderfully. L sang every word of every song, which I was very impressed with. She saw me, Grandma and Pappa right away, and waved with the sweetest little smile. She was the cutest shepherd I have every seen. Which I can say because at this age, Ek was a sheep and H was a cow. So proud of my sweet girl.

H was delightful as well. He is at the age of bell playing at TCS. He had a nice high note. I always love to listen closely until the sweet melody comes through, a name-that-song of sorts. He sang so sweetly too and sat so calmly. He did great. The rest of the elementary school comes and watches the Kindergarten program. Ek seemed to really enjoy seeing H's program. We didn't get to see her official program because she was at dress rehearsal for Nutcracker but her school wide chapel was wonderful.

A few more Nutcracker...

2011-01-07T10:36:00.000-08:00

These blogs are just coming from looking through the pics, hence the randomness order of them, but hey that's appropriate for my life.

One of Mom's favorite memories of Ek from last year's Nutcracker was seeing her in the dressing room (while the rain was coming down and Dad was probably mopping), and there was absolute chaos (somewhat controlled) around her, people everywhere playing, dancing, coloring, eating and Ek was sitting in her chair with her Caboodle on her lap putting on countless layers of lip gloss. Here she is a year later, still at it. And yet, amazingly, keeps all her sparkles, glitter and gloss contained to dance performances. for now anyway.

I love being backstage just to hug on her. And smile at her. But my absolute favorite is seeing their faces from the side stage during the performances glowing in the bright lights. It is a most stunning sight. They go from excited, anxious, tired or unaware until they get on stage and they are looking at the crowd and smiling and confident and they literally glow.

Its awesome.

Ek was so so blessed this year to have the absolute gift of being cheered on my 2 of my favorite aunts. Seeing them and having them in my home was so wonderful. I guess I should thank Ek for getting them to Dublin!! So so glad they could come.

L's view of our exercising

2011-01-06T10:09:00.000-08:00

These pictures make me laugh. L put on J's headband and I took her picture running, then, of course she wanted to take ours.

J and I try to keep our exercising separate from our time from our kids meaning we lose a lot of sleep to get it in. They are so kind, supportive and encouraging of it too. We hope that not only is it keeping us healthier for them, but also inspiring and teaching a healthy lifestyle. We are looking forward to this year of races, especially getting the kids to their first tri. And I wonder if L would like to run the St. Patrick's mile this year. She seems to like running from the look on her face here!

Our indoor tree that got us outside

2011-01-05T08:21:00.005-08:00

I admit, I was not very emotionally attached to our Christmas tree this year. It may because I didn't do much to it. I wanted one so bad that L and I went to a local nursery, picked it out and had it delivered. that was fun. And really the only ornaments on it were what the kids put. We had about a 2:1 ratio of ornaments that made it to the tree and ornaments that tried and missed and hit the floor. Maybe that's why I did put any more ornaments on. When the kids got home from school on the last day before Christmas, they had made so many at school that they filled it up pretty well. That made it quite beautiful to me. I loved their joy over it. We also got this button that they could turn the lights on and off themselves. L was a big fan of that.

After Christmas, on J's last day off, and after J and H went to buy new boots, they took the tree through the woods and threw it in the creek. The creek is a bit sad right now, pretty low but to H it is awesome. Mom trimmed the briars back so we could get there easily and we do. H calls hanging out around the creek "hunting." J said we can call it that until JP kills his deer, then we may have to actually get him out a bit further. Yesterday they wanted to fish in the creek, but before I take 2 children with fishing poles and hooks, they are going to have to prove it. So we practiced casting yesterday in the yard. They wanted to go to the pond but the sun was almost set, so that is the plan for today except that its raining. We'll see. Next time we head to the creek, the camera will go too.

Wow what a morning.

2011-01-05T07:21:00.002-08:00

While I was at the Nutcracker school performance, and L was at Mother's Morning out, H needed a gingerbread house decorating companion. J joyfully accepted the challenge. I think they enjoyed it, from the looks of the house, yes, enjoyed. J said they were the 2nd to last done. I could tell! I'd like to live here; its colorful, full decorated, has a delightful fire out front and even comes with a car. When they finished they got to go out and play football. J did not kick it over the fence, thank goodness, and it may have rivaled the fun they had eating endless amounts of candy. (I guess its appropriate that J also took H to the dentist 2 weeks later to have cavities filled!! hahaha) J said when he left even JP gave him a hug. Nothing like a Daddy at school morning. Way to go J.

Love it! Again!

2011-01-05T07:12:00.000-08:00

It is still one of the absolute most fun things of the whole year. This year Ek was a mouse,

chopstick kid and sugar plum. The mouse was a very late pickup and fabulous fun. We were quite amazed at Ek's stage performance this year. She was so confident, so right on and so full of joy. You could tell she was loving every minute. Here and now, a month later, she just this morning she said she dreamt about Nutcracker last night. H piped in, "me too!!" And L pretends to be the Rat King about every day. Most aspire to be Clara, L wants to be the Rat King. haha Last week after surgery, as Ek was lying in recovery, Nutcracker is what she turned to on her Ipod. Its hard work, but proving to be something she loves.

And I know and pray and hope that all the Lord has for her in this will be developed. I can see great things developing in her!

And the winner is... love

2011-01-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

Today at Bible study, we just caught up a minute by all telling our best moment of the Christmas break. Everyone, with sincerity (it seemed), said, in some way or another, how nice it was to be home with family. People are more important than things. Some got puppies. Some got diamonds. Yet PJs, playing and just good ole being together won out. It really was great.

Our Christmas morning self-timer shot

First poetry

2011-01-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

Ek was learning about poetry in school, I love her couplet that she wrote for homework!!

"I went outside to play on my swing,

and I heard all the blue birds sing."

Not quite ready yet

2011-01-03T18:18:00.000-08:00

This is a very odd picture of my adorable girl, but it suits the story. Last week, J and I were sitting on the couch about 10 minutes after putting the kids to bed. H and Ek were exhaused for some reason, can't remember why. They about fell asleep before their sweet heads hit the pillow. I could hear L stirring around a minute and before we knew it, she was standing beside us. She was disappointed, had her lip poked out a bit. She kinda mumbled, "I want you to play with me," to J. He looked at me puzzled. I said, "what you don't understand is Ek and H are already asleep and she doesn't have anyone to play with," to J. J fell out laughing. So did L. She knows she's funny. We let her stay up a few minutes and cuddle with us on the couch before sending her up to join the others for some sleep. The difference is when Ek was her age, she always came downstairs when we put her down at this age, we took her up to bed so many times. I can't remember exactly what H did, but I remember he went through the getting up stage. We just don't see much of L, we just hear her keeping the others up. Every child is born into a new family. We're glad L was born into ours.

Goal

2011-01-03T18:09:00.000-08:00

Alright! Can I do it?? My goal~~ 365 posts for 2011. That doesn't rhyme. Can't think of anything that does. I think I will back track a bit though. And I want a picture for every post. So here is my excited face as taken by Ek while waiting for our ENT appointment last week. Or a really nice shot of my teeth. This could take us into 2 different directions of recalling the last month. But I'll stick with my purpose of this blog. To count every day as blessing. To recount with great Thanksgiving the work that the Lord has done. To remember all that the Lord has done. To give a gift to myself and my family, present and to come, of knowing what our daily life looks like. Oh I hope I can make 365!!!

L's fun day at preschool

2010-11-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed being with L at her Fall Fun Day. She wore my cheerleading outfit and was all ready to go. I did think about Ek's Fall Fun Day when she was a ballerina and H wore his little puppy hat, it was a cold day that day and they both enjoyed playing on the slide. H's Fall Fun Day he dressed as Spiderman and little L tagged along. When Ek was L's age, it was our first year in Dublin, so now we are starting to do things that all 3 are getting to do. Its quite nostalgic. I will say that of the 3, L enjoyed the games the most. Or maybe the candy prizes, not sure. But she ran from game to game having a blast.

This game she wasn't quite into, she wasn't to sure about digging in sand with her freshly manicured hands, but she managed to get in the sand enough to get her prize.

Please note that she is actually eating a Reece's cup while trying to win at the cake walk.
Ahhh, the duck pond with friends. That is BP dressed as Ironman.
She was very happy over her double cheeked face painting.
She seems to be having a great time at school. One of the funniest things she has started doing is stopping by all her friends classrooms to greet all her friends before she settles into her own. Her door is in a quad door area with the other 3 year old class, 2 year old class and one year old class. She has friends in each. When we get there, she won't go into her room until she speaks to them, once she has, she marches right in and gets to her day. Can you imagine how late she will be to all her classes in high school? :)

What keeps me busy...

2010-11-12T02:34:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago I had one of the craziest weeks with my kids activities. They had me on the go!

Monday, L was off from school for her fall break. You know those preschoolers, they really work hard and need a break from school!! It did give her some time to work on her new photography hobby.

Tuesday, H and I were off to a field trip to an awesome farm. We rode the

school bus together, played, and ate our picnic lunches together. We had a blast.

Wednesday was L's fall fun day. Maybe thats why they needed Monday off, to rest up for the big party! She dressed in my cheerleading outfit and had the most fun. She played every game at least 5 times. Pumpkin bowling was at the top of her list.

Thursday, Ek and I went to the same farm H went to. At first I thought I was seeing the same permission slip over and over again, I finally had to put the 2 side by side to convince myself I was going to the same farm on an hour school bus ride twice in 3 days. And yet, it was soooo much fun. Ek loved it too.

Friday was H's Farmer Brown Day at school. One of the most fun activity days of the year. It is very simple and very fun.

Saturday I stayed in bed all day. No not really. It was a really great week.

Ek's new look

2010-11-11T17:48:00.000-08:00

Last Monday, Ek brought home a page of school work that I was a bit confused about. She was to, as she does every Monday, copy her spelling words from the board and write them 3 additional times. Half of them were circled and corrected. When I asked her what happened, she said, "Mama, I couldn't see them good." She was very disgruntled. So we got a work in appointment with her ophthalmologist daddy and were quite surprised at the severity of her sweet little eyes' nearsightedness. We were then surprised at how hard it was to find glasses to fit her sweet little face. But finally today H and I went to pick them up while the girls were dancing and before our soccer games. She was so excited. She put them on and said "wow." All the way to school she was comparing her naked eyes to her new and improved corrected eyes. It was like a whole new world. She said she had been able to see close up just fine but everything far away was blurry, and now with her glasses it was clear. She was so impressed. I am so thankful. The details of her new specs are: they are a pinkish burgundyish metal with pink butterflies on the temples. And she is adorable.

Preschool friends

2010-10-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

These 2 have become quite the buddies being in the same class this year at preschool. Their teacher says that they are behaving well, but she does have to separte them sometimes for having a bit too much fun. Their most favorite thing to do on the playground is swing. They have 4 tire swings and I think that comsumes their outside playtime. The report they like to spin as fast as they can while talking, giggling and screaming. And they like to swing, "higher! higher! higher!!" I think they manage to get a teacher to push them some to reach their aspired heights. Last week at Picnic with Pops, B's Grandaddy and I had to drag these two off the playground swings when we were the only ones remaining. I love that they are having such fun together!!

Between, part 2

2010-10-13T17:10:00.002-07:00

We were really excited that our dear friends, the G. We met up with them at half time and planned to meet after the game and walk to a field for the boys to play a bit of football. WGbrought his ball to the game, that's commitment. So we quickly made our way to a wonderful field full of tailgaters for the boys to finally get their chance to play some ball. I mean, enough of watching other boys play! They immediately lined up to play. Sometimes they start from a line of scrimmage and hike the ball, and other times they kick off to each other. Considering their soccer background, they seem to really like the kickoff method a lot. And they have gotten really good at catching each other's punts. There is a lot of tackling involved. Funny note, at one point during the first quarter of the UGA game, H did ask if they were playing tackle. hahahaha The girls started out playing ball but quickly changed to tag. Good choice. It was a blast.

Saturday between the hedges, well not us, but the players were

2010-10-13T10:32:00.001-07:00

I realize they are my kids and my husband and I get to see them everyday, but somehow I just can't get enough of them. Saturday John and I were blessed to get to take Ek and H to a winning UGA game and really had fun. I love holding their little hands all the way there, sitting close to them and trying to explain college football, watching them take it in and try to stay entertained, watching them eat a bag of cotton candy as big as their head, listen to my boys eagerness to find some grass to play on, watching my girl desperately trying to find the mascots in the binoculars, and wondering what they were thinking when John and I shot up in excitement over a touchdown. It was really a nice day and I appreciate the Dawgs going ahead and winning it. Oh, and the weather was perfect. And L had a blast with her Mops and Pops. Oh and I didn't even mention J and my run through campus with more runners that I have even seen in my life, past the band warming up and past 100 tailgaters with the most delicious smells, and J wasn't 10 steps ahead this time, yeah!

Starry night

2010-09-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

Ek has been asking for more than a year to set up the tent in the backyard and camp out. I'm not quite sure why it has been as difficult as it has to get it done but finally yesterday, while J was at a meeting, I decided that it was time to give it a try. I drug the tent to the yard, put those poles together, got out the directions and got the tent up. The kids were super impressed and I was very glad that I went for it-- those camping Y days had adequately prepared me for that moment!! When J got home, he was only happy to sleep in it if we all were, I think he was really hoping one would run for the house so he could follow. But when we got out there all tucked away in our sleeping bags and could look up at the stars surrounding the tall trees, we were quite in awe and happy. They also loved hearing all the night sounds. The kids settled into sleep about 30 minutes later and all slept through the night. There was a bit of a chill during the night, but I didn't hear a peep until this morning when L couldn't find her puppy, who was under J. Ek was just giddy that she got to finally sleep in a tent and couldn't wait to see the sunrise.

This morning, Ek and I got out her assignment sheet for the week and were going over her Bible verse, books of the Bible, spelling words and some math to get a good start on her week. Her Bible verse was "Abram believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness." Genesis 15:6. We got out the Bible to read the passage and what a perfect day it was to read that passage. Abram was concerned that he still didn't have an heir, so God took him out and told him to look at all the stars, so also shall his children be. How amazing to look at my girl and say, Abram slept in a tent just like we did last night and looked up at the same stars and look what God did for him. God always keeps his promises. Wow, that was some good timing.

the still resting this morning just before dawn... J is the blue lump in the middle, don't miss the little polka dotted thing next too him or the little head popping out of the G bag.

thank you b and m for this fun night!!

L's first day

2010-09-02T05:56:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love preschool? L's preschool is the sweetest place. All 3 have gone to the same preschool and managed to have different teachers. L's teacher this year has been teaching for over 30 years and wanted just what I do- for L to learn how to go to school. She wants them to know how to be a part of a class, listen and make friends. She was very excited to start school and didn't seem to have a bit of hesitation. I convinced her to wear the same dress Ek wore on her fist day of school. She has been waiting for the day she finally got to wear her brand new backpack! So we got dressed and took our pictures. L took a few pictures and we were off. She waited patiently with her friends, marched right in, hung up her book bag on the hook that had her name and sat down to play next to BP. When i picked her up, she was in a bit of a daze, tired but happy.

Two ballerinas

2010-09-02T05:46:00.000-07:00

YAAAA HOOOO! Her day finally arrived! L got to go to dance for the first time last Thursday! She was so excited! She wanted to wear her dance clothes all day but managed to wait until afternoon, she did wear them to H's soccer game after dance though. And yes, I did put her hair in a "bun." Ahhh! So cute. The only time she got anxious was when Ek's dance teacher called for Ek to go to class and L's hadn't called for her yet- "But I want to go to dance class!!!" I said "You will, you will, your class is here and Ek's class is here!!" Then she was ok. She walked right into her class and was all smiles. I know she had a blast. H and I came home and he sat at the counter with me while they were there, he worked on his number words and I fixed supper. L's class is only 45 minutes which H thought passed pretty quickly. The girls were all smiles when I picked them up. I think they are going to have a blast there this year!

What my ears hear

2010-08-25T08:42:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure how the following all tie together except that I got to hear them...

Addition to Ek's prayers, yesterday she prayed that her daddy would be very "thinkable" while he operated. Love that and I know God knew just what you meant sweet girl.

H has asked 2 awesome questions as a result of the Bible lessons at school. "How many faces does God have?" and "What did God do on the 8th day?" Love that boy. He wanted to know with the first question how God could see everything at one time. What a great way to ask that question. We talked a good bit about God the Spirit. To the other question I told him he enjoyed what he had done. H told me that was what He did on the 7th day! J told him that He walked with Adam and Eve in the garden.

We were praying for J as he left go operate on Saturday on call. After Ek and H prayed, L asked who she could pray for. I asked her who she wanted to pray for and she said "Mopsey." "Dear God, please help Mopsey have a beautiful day..."

Today I asked what I was going to do with her and she said while laughing, "Keep me forever!" Ya hoo!

Love them all.

one and oh

2010-08-22T17:14:00.000-07:00

Fall soccer season is underway! The girls and I skipped all the practices since school began and they needed to get to bed at a reasonable time (practice started t 7:45 several nights!), so I was so excited to see him play! He was so excited to get out they and play a game. It was 1000 degrees and 1000 percent humidity, I'm sure, but we were ready. After a quick team photo, they were off. H played great- he paid attention to what was going on, and stayed involved. He scored 2 goals to help their 7-2 win. He also played very hard on defense, he and JP really chased the other team down and tried to get the ball away and take it the other direction. He was not anxious to kick it down the field but tried to dribble the ball- in high traffic and even tried to position himself to receive the ball from JP. It was fun, most of all it was fun to see his huge smile and know he was having a blast playing ball with his friends.

Trust me on this one--- H aka #9 is headed for his first goal of the season, in about one kick...

See what I mean? Having fun...
2 goals today. Sweet boy though- team player wanted to hold up 7.

Learning my girl

2010-08-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was wrong. Big wrong. L and I took the kids to school and came home. She was so pitiful. I held her, fed her breakfast, read to her, rocked her, toted her around, gave her Tylenol and Clartin for her runny nose. She was just literally rolling around of the floor, whining and fussing all morning. I put her down for a nap at 11:30. I turned down an exercise class and a lunch out because I just thought she didn't feel well enough to get out. She slept for a normal 2 hours and we got big bro and sis back and suddenly her energy was back too! She was playful and happy the rest of the day! cured! by some playmates. So I thought she needed to stay home and rest when maybe she needed to get out and play! Silly me! So today I decided to get her out and about. We ran errands, visited friends, ate lunch out and took lunch to J. She was bouncy and smiley and happy all day. Not to say she doesn't doesn't like some time home alone to play, because we have had some great days of playing babies and restaurant this week, but I guess too much of a good thing is too much. I asked her this morning who she wanted to play with today, her responses, in order, me, B and HH, EK, H. sweet girl. she just loves to have Ek and H around. So, note to self, keep that girl coming and going!

Ek's prayer

2010-08-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

Somewhere along the way, it was discovered that Ek likes to pray for her Daddy on the days he operates. So for a long time now, he will ask her, "Ek, will you pray for my surgeries today?" Well, sometime this summer her prayers have included this, "Dear God, please help Daddy's surgeries go well today and please help his patients come back the next day and say, 'Wow Dr. W, I can see so much better now!,' Amen." Love so many things about that. :)

Despite the shirt, it really is fun

2010-08-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

J's first reaction when I told him H could take golf lessons was "I knew this day would come." I'm not too sure how to take that, but I am so glad this day has come. H is having a ball. (pun totally intended) He has, for the last 2 months, taken golf lessons once a week with his friends. They are the cutest little group of golfers I've ever seen. Their coach has taught lessons to kids for years and has them chipping, putting and hitting range balls. He has taught them to stand like a golfer and be quiet and watch while another golfer has his turn, that may be as hard as hitting a hole in one, but one can try, right? I have to admit that he was not too sure about this golf thing in the beginning, he totally disagreed with the wardrobe. You would think that collared shirts have razors in them the way he avoids them, but as time has gone on, it has improved. Ek put a collared shirt on yesterday and said, "I don't know what the big deal H makes about collared shirts is all about, they are not that bad." Once he is dressed, there and with his friends, he has been having a great time. Just tell my H to hit or kick or throw a ball as hard as he can and he is happy. I'm proud him for trying something new and if his persistence has anything to do with it, he will be a great golfer in no time. The group picture will have to come later, one was missing at the time of these pics.

That was a great game.

2010-08-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

We had a really great time at the Braves game in Cincinnati. We always like to look and see who will be playing anything professional when we travel, especially baseball. J has been know to even just drive by empty stadiums. Boy were we excited when we saw not only were the Reds going to be in town when we were going to be there, but that they were playing the Braves! Well that was just about too much. J booked those tickets within 30 minutes. Now we only needed to register for the meeting and hotel and figure out how to get there, but those we just details compared to where we were going to sit!!! Ek was a Brave this year and H got a jersey for his birthday and L was cute enough without either. We decided at the last minute to drive the 5 blocks to get there knowing for sure that the 5 of us would not walk home~ a few more years and we'll take that walk easy. Well it was one of those instances where lucky was better than good and J ended up in the best parking spot ever, we crossed the street, went up an escalator, and walked into the stadium. We walked around to our seats that we directly in front of the $1 concession stand, bathrooms and a playground. wow. Good seats, babe. J could recall all the details of the game but I'm sure you could find those on a sports blog- that's not what this is. The kids made 3 trips to the play ground, at hotdogs and sprite, L tasted a neighbors peanut and decided she must have some, played a great game of I spy, and sang "take me out to the ball game" with joy and gusto and they all ate their own bay of cotton candy- L finished hers first. We managed to even get one inning of free baseball to see them pull it out in the 10th. And we got post game fireworks. Did I mention it was amazing? It was. Perfect baseball weather, breeze off the Ohio river and in the shade. Really it was amazing. Good find babe, way to go!

Summer poolin

2010-08-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, summer, how we loved thee. sigh. One of the best parts of our amazingly playful and fun summer was the pool. I would watch the clock until about 9:30 and then we would dash into our swim suits, gather the towels, add them to the back of the car where the toys were waiting, slather on our sunscreen, hop in the car, sit very still, and drive the 3 blocks to the pool. We were always super excited to be the first to arrive and after saying hello to Cathy and signing in, I would hear, "Can I get in now?" in the sweetest little voices I ever heard. I loved the first time we went this summer and H was so excited to get it that he forgot to take his flip flops off. Sometimes we would meet friends and sometimes we would go alone. I loved one day when it was just the 4 of us and Ek said how much she liked it that way, wow did that do my heart good. At the beginning of summer, L was very cautious. She wanted me to hold her 100% of the time, no matter who was with us, me hold her, only. One day along the way though, she discovered her wings. We tried vest, inner-tubes and wings and one day, the wings won. From that day on, she wanted to swim "by herself." She still wanted me to be in the water with her, but she would piddle around, kicking her little legs and leaning back to get her hair wet. Once she began doing that, we could venture into the deep end where the big 2 loved to play. Ek worked very diligently on touching the bottom and taught h diligently until they could both touch at 9 feet- first with their feet, then with their hands, first from the ladder and then from the diving board. They both worked on their dives and H even tried to help JP with is dives. H had the cutest, I mean, awesomest cannon ball you've ever seen, he'd keep his little, I mean awesome, legs all tucked in until he made his splash. I could watch him do cannon balls all day. He also loved to jump in silly, the duck was my favorite- tucking his little legs under, flapping his wings and quacking off the diving board. We also played a fun game of shark and boat, we would swap roles of chasing each other around the shallow end, I usually had H and L attached to me and Ek got pretty fast with those flippers on, the shark would usually go for big bites out of ribs to get good laughs. They also loved swimming under my legs at different levels without touching. I loved hanging out in the water with them. Toward the end of the summer, we started taking a tea set and would have all sort of tea and then have to gather tea cups from all over the pool. The water guns drove us crazy all summer as we would get slapped unexpectedly in the face with water from time to time, "not in the face, up in the air!!" They loved for Cathy to fix lunches of mini corn dogs, chicken finger, fries and fruit, oh and powerade and nothing is sweeter than ice cream at the pool. We went alot. One week I think the kids swam 5/6 days. We usually went in the morning for about 3 hours, ate lunch there, came home, showered and rested for several hours. It was so hot this summer that I just couldn't stand to be out much unless we were at the pool. I am so so thankful that we got to spend the summer there together, laughing, playing, seeing friends, seeing each other. It was so fun.

PS there are no pictures because I was in the pool! We did though take several underwater cameras that I will have developed soon!

First day pics, take 2

2010-08-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

So, I just love taking pics in the same spot in my yard every year for the first day of school. I call it the first day of school spot. My kids know it, they hear it and they get ready. Ek and H put their back packs on, grabbed their lunch box, walked over and gave me a subtle grin. Perfect. H needs to take a quick break and L steps to the spot. There are no words to describe it. So here it is.

I'm not sure what else to do but just keep her forever and keep loving her. Mostly because I can't wait to see what she does next. This girl keeps us smiling.

First day of school!

2010-08-11T17:23:00.001-07:00

First day of school! First day of school! First day of school!

This year, the overwhelming thoughts in my head regarding going back to school are this: Number one, I am so thankful my kids get to go to school. What an amazing gift. What an amazing blessing. Just thinking of all the kids all over the world who don't have the chance for an education at all and my kids have this amazing school where they are challenged and loved, disciplined and prayed for, where they must sit still and work and then run and play. Its amazing. I am so thankful. Number two, summer if fun, but it is not the life I long for my kids to live. It is not their potential. The are too smart and too eager to wake up and eat breakfast at 10 am on their way to the pool. I loved it and am a bit mopey when I think that its done for the year because it was so fun, we had such fun together, I'll need to write just on pool memories here soon, but back to number one, I am so glad for them to get to go to school.

So off to school. Today began very well. They were happy to get there. We ate cinnamon toast for breakfast, I packed their lunches, they got dressed, brushed their teeth and we were ready for our first day of school picture. We loaded up and headed to school. When we rounded the corner to the school Ek said her stomach was hurting. I think we were all a bit nervous. We walked Ek to her room first and after settling in, she quickly asked if we could walk H to his room. When we arrived at H's room and attached his new desk bag, newly finished that is, the tears were on the brink of making their appearance. I kept telling myself to be brave. I managed to make it out though. H was very nervous and not quite ready for me to leave, but I knew he would be fine, he had several friends there and a big fish to color. We walked Ek back to her room and she quickly and quietly settled into her seat. Neither were too happy to have their picture taken but sorry that was not an option. L and I managed to make it to the car before the tears exploded. I just felt like I had left my arms there! J said the kindest things to encourage me- he told me to rest knowing how great our summer had been and how I had invested in them all summer. The Lord blessed me with that all day. When we pulled away from the school, L was so quiet, I asked her if she was ok and she said yes. I asked her if she was sad and she said "No, (pause), mommy, why are you sad?" hahaha I told her I just liked for us all to be together, she said she did too.

After school the kids bounced into the car with huge grins. The had the best days. They were literally singing how awesome their day was. Their lunch was awesome (who knew a turkey sandwhich and a banana could taste so good!). Ek learned how to write "a" in cursive and H learned again what "i" says. H was excited to get to the 100th day of school and Ek was excited that today they got to go to computer. ahhhh school. what a gift. We had the G's over to celebrate the first day of school. Us moms celebrated the peace of the Lord and his working in our hearts to help us. Great day.

Good morning!

2010-08-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

Just a bit more about the Braves game and the fireworks~ They announced before the game that it was a fireworks game. The fireworks would begin 20 minutes after the last out. The kids were, needless to say, quite excited. They missed 4th of July fireworks since J and I were watching them overlooking the harbor in Maine. ahhh ME. Well those Reds tied the game in the 8th (I think) and so we got some free baseball. Thankfully the Braves went ahead in the 10th and won it. horray!! I was very thankful it didn't go to like 16 innings. Well, H just couldn't quite make it. In the 10th, he got very still in my lap and fell asleep. Crowds were cheering and standing around us. Loud announcers, people taking pictures, passing by to the aisles, H slept. Game over, homerun contest, ohhhhs and ahhhhs, H slept. Fierworks begin, loud music, H slept. Me shaking him, throwing him around, yelling in his ear, "H wake up, H fire works!!!!" H slept. oh well. We ohhhed and ahhhed. They were amazing. amazing! They were set to movie soundtracks. L was not a big fan of the noise, J covered her ears the entire time. Ek plugged her ears at times. H slept. We loaded up, headed to the car, buckled in, drove to the hotel, took the elevator, undressed H, stole gum from his mouth, kissed him good night. H slept.

The next morning, he woke up and I went over to hug him a minute and the first thing he said was, "Mommy, there weren't any fireworks last night!" really H? I said, "yes there were H, you were asleep, I tried to wake you up." he said, "Nuh- uhhh! I didn't fall asleep!" ok, H. I know my H well enough to know arguing is not a good idea. He may come around but I was not in the mood at that moment. The Lord spoke to my heart in that minute and made me wonder how often I sleep when he is trying to wake me. I know he speaks in all ways and often it is a still small voice but I'm sure he gets louder at times! My hearts prayer in that moment is that I wake when he calls to hear and see what He has for me. I know He wants to show us even more glorious things than fireworks and I don't want to sleep through them and then try to tell him there were not any. I think of Ephesians 5:14" Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." Maybe next time, H. And I hope next time for me too.

Its not everyday...

2010-07-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

... there is a castle in your yard. And not everyday that your baby turns 3. And wow what a 3 year old she is. She has an amazing amount of personality in her body. She is so full of life and joy. Her emotions come out with full gusto. I could not be more grateful for my sweet girl's vocabulary. She speaks with such confidence and conviction. (She just told me she is going to America in just a second. America is going to be open in one hour. She is holding two babies and has a backpack on, she's ready for the trip!) Her little curls suit her perfectly, adorable and a bit unpredictable. Her favorites are being held, being tickled, dancing, swinging, her Daddy, and her sister and her brother, ok really, all her family. She loves B and H and all her friends. She is always asking where everyone's significant others are. She loves to have us all together. She loves her lovies, her puppy is her fav, then lamb, then duck. Maybe soon we will be done with her ba's. Oh she is a joy. Love my girl!

Ready for the party? First princesses need a nap.

The interpretation of my smile is this-- "she's still my baby girl!" What a gift this was to me-- I didn't know I was getting a gift on her birthday!

Ready now!

Wow what a castle. Oh I hope she remembers it!

And another castle! It is a princess party after all!

Nothing like sweet friends who share your joy!

Two of her favorite boys. Lord help me.

Most all the kids! I love L's face- my interpretation-- Wow what a day! It almost just too much!!

Sunday ride

2010-07-06T12:19:00.000-07:00

We ended Saturday night with a big group talk and discussion over the Cadillac mountain climb the next day. The group was quite apprehensive for some reason, maybe because the word mountain was involved. It was a 3.5 mile climb. I couldn’t quite imagine that. I knew I had to go for it, I had kept up with j this far and I wasn’t going to quit now!! So the next morning, I ate my blueberry pancakes and ate my bacon and drank my water and I was ready. The climb was a turn off the Park Loop Road and we decided to do the mountain and enjoy the rest of the day. We were about 28 miles away from 100 miles total and I really wanted to make sure we got that in. J, Mike and I took off. Tara decided on a spa/ pool/ shopping day. We planned ahead of time that the guys would climb as hard as the could and I would meet them at the top. The waited for me at the turns but oddly we were not going up. hmmm. When will it start? Pretty soon I saw the guys ahead with the map. We missed it. We then planned to save it for last. Great! Hardest climb last, perfect. sigh. We had 15 miles around to get back to the turn for the climb. Oh my. Amazing ride. The best smoothest road. Amazing views. Sandy beach, rocky beach, Coves, bridges, islands, boats. A. ma. zing. We get to the turn off and take it on! The guys get ahead and we just keep going and going. It was hard. I decided the next tour I take will be in Florida. I decided I need a new bike seat. I also decided that J was now the only reason I was going to keep going. I didn’t care for myself anymore, I just wanted to see him. And I did. 27 minutes later, I was at the top. Mike 21. John 23. I took a 2 minute break and at a few power gel bites. Cried out to Jesus a few times. And I promise he told me that I had chosen to do it and I had to just keep going. We hit 97 miles at the top. We went all around the summit and studied down below, we saw where our hotel was, we saw the island where we had been the day before and we could pick out several places where we had ridden that day. It was an amazing accomplishment. My first mountain. I took it a bit easy on the way down. There were some serious turn backs that I wanted to make sure I could actually turn back. It was very overwhelming to see what I had climbed. So we hit 100 miles at the bottom and returned to town with grins. Got back and laid in the grass a minute. So grateful for my health. So grateful for my marriage. So grateful to have gotten to accomplish that feat with my J. So grateful to know the one who made such a glorious place. And so grateful for the grandparents who let us come.

the view from the top of the Harbor where we stayed, we climbed a long way!
at the top!
in front of sand beach

The Saturday Ride

2010-07-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

Amazing. Saturday we took a ferry ride to Schoodic Island. Our bikes were driven over on top of the van. We had a bit of discussion over the pronunciation of the island and, for the record, Mike was right, Tara and I were wrong. We hopped on our bikes and took off. I stuffed my camera in my little bike pouch because I could not stand another day of not having any pictures.

We took some roads around the islands that first took us through a neighborhood that had houses that looked like presidents would be vacationing there. The architecture is so different. Beautiful roof lines with such colorful siding. Gardens filled with tall flowers in all colors. Soft green lawns. Just stunning. We went back through town and over to the Islands portion of Acadia National Forest. The one way road seemed to just hug the coastline all the way. We would see the most gorgeous view of huge rocks and deep blue water with lobster buoys scattered throughout. We would hop off our bikes, take a few pictures and get back on ready to go and 500 feet later want to stop again! We tried to resist a few views now and then just to make a bit of progress, but it was not easy. There were not many people around and we enjoyed having this amazing road to enjoy without crowds. We circled the park and cruised into the delegated deli for lunch. A few others were there and the cooks were quite overwhelmed by out huge crowd of 15. :) Quiet island for sure. J got a hambuger and I got a turkey club. It took a bit, but we enjoyed sitting on such a gorgeous afternoon and enjoying the view of the homes and the water. After lunch, J and I set out to finish the days ride. We had one hour before the ferry left and 18 miles, which is not crazy on a road we know well, but I was a bit apprehesive to try. But to be with J, I concented and we took off. Our first stop was a tiny lobstering community. The buoys remeinded me of sprinkles, there were so many buoys in the water. The temperature dropped probably 10 degrees from the chilly sea breeze over the North Atlantic. We high tailed back and took a neighborhoodish road called Paul Bunyon in a big loop and hen back to town past our deli and then a 5 mile that felt like all up hill to arrive 10 minutes after 3:00. Thankfully our back up plan, the van was there and we rode back to Bar Harbor via roads, which was not disappointing, it was nice to talk to our guides and see some beautiful farms along the way.

We got back to the hotel and quickly cleaned up and left to go to a local, off the beaten path seafood place. We were presented with our bright red lobster, corn on the cob and coleslaw. Oh and butter. J ate one claw and requested some fried shrimp. I ate my way through but it was not the best thing I ever ate. Not that it wasn’t fresh but it was just a bit too much. Am I high maintenance if I request that my food be a bit more prepared before I eat it, in other words, I don’t like to see my meat’s eyes. The location was wonderful, we were right at a marina with the sun setting, gorgeous. And the most amazing thing came yet, blueberry pie a al mode. oh happy place. So delicious. I actually had 3 pieces of blueberry pie from 3 restaurants in 4 nights and this one got my blue ribbon. It was perfect. Tons of blueberries, perfect crust. oh happy place. Delightful day.

Acadia National Park on Schoodic Island
Mike offering a helping hand
John riding down a hill
just off the ferry
the tiny ferry was ours

enjoying the ocean view

35 miles of Acadia

2010-07-03T03:26:00.000-07:00

Months and months ago, mom saw in Southern Living an article about a bike tour in West Virginia that she thought looked like something we would like to try. Then we started talking about taking a trip for our 10 anniversary and thought coming back to Maine would be fun. Like 9 months later, here we are!! I keep having to pinch myself. We arrived several days ago and it is stunning beautiful. We are staying right on the water and every time we look up, we see boats and lobster buoys and kayak's decorating the most beautiful blue ocean. Little uninhabited islands are bursting out of the water too with majestic rock and tree after tree. Yesterday we rode 35 very challenging miles of Acadia National Park. The car free roads were a gift from Rockefeller to the American people. The scenery is a gift from God. We climbed from along side crystal clear ponds to the top of 3 mountains. Lots of climbing. The roads are not paved but are kinda packed gravel. Most of it was actually pretty smooth but made for a challenging and nervous ride at times. I really did not get over the joy of the ride- seeing the most amazing views from every height of the trail, being so thankful for the gift of being healthy enough to ride that much, and being there with John. We saw many other riders, some hikers with dogs and 6 horseback riders. We saw one Clydesdale that was the biggest horse I've ever seen in my life, he was huge. I told John the ride and the views were breathtaking. This trip is an amazing gift.

Close call

2010-07-02T05:24:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to write about a crazy moment in my mommy life. The kids last ball game was on the last day of school. At noon. Wowsiers it was hot. Not a very good turn out for that one. J wasn't even able to make it. H's team played one inning. Really? one? yes. So we headed over to Ek's game. Her opponents only had 4 players and they called up an adorable rookie. H timidly went onto the field and played a big of first base. He did great. Once we helped him a bit. After all his team had batted, H was moving to the plate ready for his turn. They were so kind to let him bat. He got a hit pretty quickly and it went straight to the first baseman who happens to be his sister. oh no! and she quickly dove for the base. oh no! and they just about tied at the bag. oh no! and looked at me! really? you're going to make me make that call? H looked at me? Did I make it? Ek looked at me. Did I get him out? really? really? not fair at all. Good reason to hire umpires. safe. I say. good call, good call. Please Lord, I umpire enough, not on a field again!

Five

2010-07-02T05:08:00.000-07:00

H is 5. wow. Time is moving very quickly. He was pretty subdued about the whole thing. Almost as if his whole self was saying "its about time!" He was pretty bummed that his party had already happened and that the club pool was closed just to make that disappointment sting. I had to remind him of great details from his party to comfort him. We ended up going out to lunch with the P's and the G's. Then Ek went home with CG and JP and BP came home with us, for 5 hours. Appropriate. The boys played amazingly. They played Pirate legos, hours of Hulabaloo, Operation, and Hungry Hippos. The only sat still for one cartoon and played for hours. It was wonderful to hear their happy laughs and I am so grateful for a sweet friend for H. We went out for pizza later that night and dragged his bday one day when we went to the pool Tuesday for swimming with friends and ice cream there.

H is an amazing boy. He loves deep and is very affectionate. He still loves to be held, carried and cuddled. He is my boy that almost every morning just needs a minute to be held before he can get going good. He has an amazing laugh and smile. He is shy with new people but full of life with friends. He has tremendous energy and sleeps hard. He loves to help. He will run to get something if I ask him. He makes his bed everyday and has his animals very strategically placed in 2 rows at the end of his bed. Puppy is still his number one and Sam is his number 2, Sam has on a UGA football uniform right now. H's favorite sport right now is probably baseball followed by basketball. He rides his bike more than is scooter and is very fast. He loves to swim and his freestyle is really coming along. He can jump in and swim to the shallow all by himself. His cannon ball is fierce and enjoys a front flip of the diving board as well. He is silly and fun and adores his sisters. He and L can get to laughing like no body can. He really looks up to his Ek as well. H is a mamas boy and a daddys boy and has a hard time letting us go. He is always anxious if he doesn't say a good good-bye especially if he forgets to say I love you. He is smart and takes his time at his work and is all round wonderful. His smile still melts my heart. I love my boy.

Conditional Animal Lovers

2010-07-02T05:01:00.000-07:00

My kids really enjoy seeing aminals, from a distance and from several feet off the ground if the animal is alive. Do they like the vantage point better from being in our arms, I'm not sure, but if so, maybe they will love animals one day. At the Lake 2 dogs were suddenly on our dock and my 3 children were suddenly in 3 sets of arms. The fourth set of arms promptly made himself a guard at the entrance to the dock. All were safe. And we, of course, talked about the dogs later with great joy.

I got them the Disney version of Planet Earth that is edited for children. It has produced some hilarious comments. The first time we watched, it did not take long for the kids to realize that there is alot of killing going on in the wild. Not even elephants are safe. So when the sweet little penguins came onto the screen, H asks, "mommy, who kills penguins?" I guess he was trying to prepare himself for what was to come. The movie had been stopped as we had gotten out of the car one day and H exclaimed as we got buckled, "oh good! this is my favorite part! when the lions are trying to get the elephant!" see what I mean. And JP H's buddy as in my car the other day as it began and saw that it was Disney and asked if the animals talked. "But its Disney, they have to talk." There is a first for everything JP.

The video is amazing and I am so grateful that from the comfort of our car the kids have been transported all over the world to see God's gorgeous creation.

Ball girl

2010-06-17T04:03:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought? Ek loved softball! loved. Not my prediction, but, oh, I was so happy that she did. The first and second grade girls were together. There were 2 teams, so they played each other 10 times. Not one of them complained over that! They seemed to just enjoy being out there together. Ek was a Brave. She had a hard time remembering if she was from Atlanta or Alabama. hahahahaha I loved being out there, at the field, with H on one field, Ek on another and L sticking with me to take it all in. Ek would run out to the field to get just next to the pitcher where she would get a great chance to get a lot of balls. She made amazing progress as the season went on. She progressed from good t hits to hitting the coaches pitches. She had a hard time swinging through with that heavy bat hitting that heavy ball, but she was always grinning on her way to first!

Good try

2010-06-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

The school year ended with a bang and has just kept moving at full speed. The last day we had a carnival, a pizza party and the last ball game. When we got home I thought how great it would be to have a picture in the same place as the first day of school picture. HA! The kids were so wiped out they could not smile. too hot. too tired. I think we took a bath and laid out for the rest of the day.

first day,

last day,

building

2010-06-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

I am really quite disappointed that I did not take my opportunity when I had it. Today Ek and H were playing legos. Ek was building houses and H was building trucks. While he was building his truck he decided it was a marshmallow truck and he made marshmallows. So he made a truck that had an attached trailer that held his mini marshmallows. adorable! He even had a lego hand truck to tote them on loaded in his truck. My disappointment was I didn't get a pictures. I did get a picture of their home.

Please note the diving board from two levels. And the stairs to the second level. I think it may be a beach house since it is on risers but I did not ask. Ek was an eye doctor who had taken the week off to catch up on charts. hahahahahaha Great building kids!

Dancing girl

2010-06-06T18:24:00.000-07:00

The way I see it is I have 2 options... quit or keep going. I really don't want to quit, so here I go...

Yesterday was Ek's dance recital. I thought she did great. She was a bit dependent on the teacher helpers in the morning dances but the afternoon dances, I thought she did amazing. She said tonight, "I just love to dance mommy." Well, there you have it! I asked her how she thought she danced, she said, "awesome." She also said after her first afternoon dance, "Mommy, I didn't even think I could do it that good!" So grateful that she was pleased with how it came together. She worked very hard at her dance lessons this year and I'm just glad that she enjoyed it, felt good about and wants to keep going.

During the last dance last night, she was standing on a folding chair on the side stage watching. Her face was glowing from the lights on stage and it was very dark where we were standing. She had a glowing grin on her face while she watched and was even imitating what they were doing. She was obvious to anything else around her, she was just in awe of the seniors who were on stage. It was such a joyful sight to see her just enjoying that moment and seeing her look up to those girls who have worked so hard for all these years.

This morning as we were at church, Ek was the only one with me. J was bringing the other two to second service. We were singing about raising our life to the Lord. I was praying for her sweet life that the Lord will bring her to the place of giving her dance to Him and dancing for Him. And just asking for big things for her life. I can't wait to see what it will be.

Tuesday night

2010-05-25T17:46:00.001-07:00

Hey Babe!

Amazing to hear from you! So grateful to the Lord for the technology to know you are great. I can hear your excitement and so grateful you are in the Lord's will.

We have had great day. Bible study was a great wrap up of our study. Trusting in the Hope of our Lord. Of course, Christ is our Hope. We we have that anchor for our souls, our minds and hearts are filled with peace. It has sure been true of me while you have been gone.

H and I snuggled and watched a movie during nap time after i picked some more squash and made another casserole. If I am a bit yellow when you come home, its not my liver, its my wonderful squash!! After school, Tara kept the kids for an hour while Ronda and I went and swam in the pond. We swam the to one end, turned swam to the other end, swam to the dock, got out, ran up the hill, ran back down and jumped back in, and did it again. We did it 3 times and it took us about 45 minutes. Beautiful day in the pond, we swam with one duck and again saw no other animals- wa-hoo! I got back to Tara's and she wanted to go to the store to get a few more things for dinner, I didn't let her, I brought over some squash, potatoes, peas, and fruit and we had a feast-- half of her meal and half of mine. Mike ate like you- his second plate was as big as his first! We came home and put our sweeties to bed. I'm about ready too! but I will stay awake a while and pray for you...

I love you,

Hurry home to us when your work is done,

Tuesday morning

2010-05-25T03:13:00.001-07:00

Hey Honey!

So great to hear from you. So grateful you had a great day. We are hoping today will be amazing. Really hoping for miraculous results in these people's lives and that they would stand for Jesus in such a dark place. I was praying for you yesterday in the Psalms to look to the Lord for your strength. He is the Rock who holds strong.

We had a good night last night. H played a good ball game. Got some great hits. He ran right out to the pitcher's spot every time and was so anxious to get the ball. He was playing Jacks team, so I sat with Susanne and Pam, L enjoyed sitting with Thomas. Christy took Ek to hear last Monday dance class of the year. It looks like next year her classes will be earlier in the day on Monday- that will be better. H was missing you last night, but I tried to love him well. We keep praying for you! I got them to bed as early as I could- they were tired. Tara came over to see the pictures I had received from McGinnis and I talked to Christy for a while about how we are praying for you.

I am really looking forward to Bible study today. It is our last one before summer. I tell you it has definately made an impact on me. You know it is all about recognizing lies that we tell ourselves and replacing it with truth. What a valuable thing to spend time in. I have realizied how often I tell myself I am overwhelmed and forget that God has chosen me to bear fruit, that he has a plan for my life and his main heart for me is to love. I also this last week have had to combat anxiety with the reminder that God loves me and is working good in my life. It is amazing how God's work can transform our minds, hearts and lives. So grateful for my Tuesday group-- I sure am going to miss them this summer.

Love you! Can't wait to hear about the transformed lives there. Praying for your day!

Love you, k

Monday afternoon

2010-05-24T12:27:00.001-07:00

Hey babe!

Thinking of you so much!! So grateful you are serving God with your life and your talents and your time. He is worthy. Think of all he has done. We have such hope!!! I think our greatest gift is love. I do love you. So grateful for His love. Trusting in it!!

We had a great morning. Got Ek and H off. L to your parents and went to the swim party. The kids had a blast and were so good. Robbie, Jaden's mom, Surrelle and I got in to swim with them a bit. Jaden's mom and I were saying how much Paul- Jaden's dad and you would have so much fun swimming with them too. But not sad, just happy to know you love us and peaceful to know you are where you need to be. They had a great lunch of pizza, Chick nuggets, fruit, chips and tons of desserts. Ben Butler said he wanted to swim there all summer- the food was great!! Tina and I laughed and laughed. Ek is swimming great, getting her confidence all the time, she is really working on blowing her bubbles underwater, she's going to be a great swimmer! L was asleep when I got home and H was watching your dad in the garden. H is supposed to have ball tonight but I think it is suppposed to rain- we've had bad luck in the rain dept. with ball!!

Well I'm off to spend a bit of time in the word while its quiet.

Oh our wet suits came!! Really good black box with a man in his suit coming out of the water- looks very serious. Mine is super tight- maybe too tight, we'll see. Fun though!! Oh and some pics from McGinnis came- they are amazing! We are so blessed!!

Love you! Keep doing what your doing! Praying!

I put your update this morning on FB, Shann, Channon Collier, Christy Kendrick, Megan Shirley, Beth White, Lee Garner and Heather Evans all commented. You have a lot of faithful praying for you!

Love you!

Monday morning

2010-05-24T12:26:00.001-07:00

Morning Honey!!

Soo soooo sooooo great to hear from you. We are trusting God's hand and care of all of us. His hand of protection, and provision and, and love is so great. He can be trusted. I am reminding my soul to be still in his love. We had a great night of rest. The kids quieted down very quickly. I had a hard time falling asleep without you here but am so grateful you are being obedient to follow God's will. We will know more of him through this. I got up this morning and rode the trainer hard for about 30 minutes. L greeted me while I was in the shower and Ek was protesting her awakening under our covers. H got up soon after. We got dressed quickly and I got them a biscuit at McD's and ran by Kroger to get H a camera to take to school for his day. Be sure not to forget to take pics with your camera!!! They were happy about their day. I am taking L to meet your parents in a minute and off to Ek's swim party. Full day!!

Tara just called to check on me. Dana and Ronda checked on me yesterday. Inkie made sure to tell me to call if we needed them. Mindy and I texted a few times last night too, she was at the luau, she seemed peaceful.

Love you babe! Trusting God for all of us!

hugs and kisses, miss you, k

Sunday night

2010-05-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Babe!

Kids "in bed" (as I type I hear "mommy- L is in my room. mama- L is in my bed." sigh.

When L was up, we put our suits and sunscreen on and jetted to the pool. Quite the crowd there, actually. Abby was the lifeguard- horray for that. Will and Laine were there with a sitter. Susanne and Melanie got there about 30 minutes later, they guys were still playing golf. Several others came and went that we enjoyed talking to. So, I am signing in and look up to see Ek and H already in the pool. Didn't quite take them any time at all to get back to it. They were both swimming under the water and jumping in within minutes. Within 20 minutes, Ek jumped off the diving board, got to the surface with her face in and swam to the ladder taking several breaths along the way. Wowie-wow-wow. I really don't think they regressed at all since last summer- this summer at the pool is going to be a blast!!! They were oozing smiles and happiness. Ek didn't even complain to not have any of her friends there and I don't think a smile left H's face. L wasn't quite so quick, she kept very close to me but was playing on the steps without touching me by the time we left. She wore a jacket the whole time and didn't mind it a bit. I don't mind her fear, she'll warm up. John, how did I swim when Ek was 3 and H was 1????? I guess I didn't swim much that summer. Oh, Ek did take swimming lessons in Fl before we left but still- I don't remember swimming much. That was probably a good thing. We got some ice cream from Miss Cathy, she was so happy! We stayed about 2 hours then headed home for baths and dinner. They are quite worn out, if L would stay out of their rooms, they would probably go to sleep!

I am quite peaceful. Trusting God loves us and has great plans for us. The kids and I were thinking maybe Huddle House Thursday morning for breakfast when you get home? We're going to celebrate your return! We are so proud of you. The kids are very peaceful. We are doing great. We love you and we miss you,

Sunday afternoon

2010-05-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

Hey babe, I know I already talked to you, but wanted to tell you again about the morning--

How amazing that H walked into our room dressed in a collard shirt, khaki shorts and his church sandals this morning. I heard him up but assumed he would make his way in when he was ready- boy was he ready! He said he wanted to surprise me- he did. Ek quickly popped up and got dressed and wanted to do something to make me proud as well so she fixed everyone their breakfast cereal. Then the 3 of them went off to play hungry hungry hippos. Our morning was so peaceful. We were ready for church way ahead of time and were so excited to get your phone call on the way. Then to arrive and walk in with the Gays- wow it was as if someone had been praying for me!!! We should ask for prayer more often on a Sunday morning!!! The worship really blessed my heart this morning. We sang several songs about how God's love endures forever. I needed the reminder that no matter what my circumstance, no matter what my day, God's love remains the same. Ritchie reminded us that so many of us are living in the OT way of life-- life based on law, sacrifice and no relationship with God. He encouraged us that we need to move into a NT way of life-- provided by Jesus and lead by the Spirit. And that was just his promo for his Discipleship class! His sermon was about enduring suffering. He said suffering reveals how little we know about God. That suffering works in us a new trust of God that reminds us that He is for us not matter what. hmmmm that sounds like the worship too. Love that. We can trust him John, no matter what this week looks like, no matter what life is like when you return and for the rest of our lives. We live with great hope and purpose. I was then off to the nursery, L was her normal clingy self but one time she said- I want daddy to come get me. I told her you were off to Haiti to take care of eyes. She said 'daddy got on a plane. with pastor Gregg. with mr. Jason. daddy gonna take care of eyes?' She has confidence in you honey. She knows you're doing what you are supposed to be doing and that you will be back. We came home and made a quick bite of lunch. It may discourage you to know I have since made mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, squash casserole, peas and grilled chicken. I am hoping that is enough cooking until you come home. My hope is that we can play hard and go to be early. They were in bed last night at 7:30. Ek and H have played great today- they played little people for a long time, helped me shell peas and pulled one another around on a blanket for awhile. I am going to go get ready to take them to the pool and maybe dinner with the Hoskins- if not we have plenty of food here!! Oh another song we sang was about fighting for love as one-- I'm taking care here so you can love there! Lord, make it all count for your glory!! Love you. Love you. Love you. Be careful.

Oh and I did talk to your mom. She was so glad to know you were safe in Miami. They are coming tomorrow so I can go to Ek's class swim party. I think your dad wants to do some work in the garden as well.

Ok, now. Love you. Love you. Love you. Be careful.

Saturday night

2010-05-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

John is off to Haiti, here is the update from us...

Saturday night--

Hey Honey,

I was remembering that the last time you were in Haiti you had internet access, so here's to hoping you do this time when you get there. When you left, L was a bit confused and sad. She didn't let me put her down for like an hour- didn't eat a bite of her supper. 'Where's Daddy going?' she asked. I told her you were going to take care of eyes for people who needed him. But we sat in the grass and prayed for you as soon as you were out of sight. We went in and fixed hamburgers and chips and pineapple and jello- quite a feast. We were off to the bathtub. Ek and H both helped clean up a bit. L wanted me to hold her in her towel, so we sat with her all snuggled up in her towel and read a few books. I took the kids to bed at like 7:30- I knew they were so tired. They went to bed very peacefully and I reminded them as I walked down the steps to pray for you. Ek said she would pray for you Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (at school prayer requests I suppose). I am now tucked into our bed to do a bit of resting.

I am so proud of you John-- that you are leading our family by obeying the Lord. What an amazing example you are giving to all of us. I also think about how beautifully you are using the talents the Lord has given you. Amazing.

Love you, love you, love you.

Wish we could have snuggled a bit today, but I sure enjoyed being with you this morning. The bike ride was really great too. Couldn't have ever done that without you!!

Be careful.

Keep me posted.

Did I tell you I loved you?

I do.

I love you.

L and her playmate

2010-05-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

Mom has a blast playing with L. She has a way of playing with her that really gets L going. This occasion, L laid her baby doll and mom down for a nap and then sat down for her Bible study. wow. Then she cut mom's hair and did something to her nose, not quite sure what. L loves when she gets play attention, mom knows quite how to give it to her. Come back mom!!

New ride

2010-05-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

So happy to see my girl's happy face on her new ride. She is amazing on it- so fast and so happy. Can you tell?

Turtle Crawl

2010-05-21T12:20:00.001-07:00

J and I did our first tri of the year. J had his eye on this one for several years and although it was a magnet weekend for activities, we decided to go for it anyway. I am so glad we did. We had a really great time. The nice thing about a tri at the beach is that we got to recover under palm trees with a sea breeze. I recommend. I realize that people read this and I would love if they would skip this one. I am not trying to brag, I want to remember what we did. The swim was awful, the ocean and current was not kind. I think I swam about a mile in a 600 yard race. bum-mer. It took me forever--should have taken less that 15 minutes, took 30. wow that was bad. BUT I felt like I got into a great rhythm in the water, so that is what I am taking away. The bike ride was so beautiful. I love most bike rides I'm on. I love to watch the scenery go by. We went past beatiful trees, marsh and of course, ocean. The run was on top of the dunes overlooking the ocean- can't beat that! I made myself enjoy where I was. I am so grateful for my health, my husband and my friends to spend time with. I consider that I put my time into the pool at 5am to get the opportunity to swim in the ocean. Our times- me swim 30, bike (15 miles) 48 min (18.1mph), and run 26:19. Over all women 28/124 age group 5/21. John's times- swim 27:27, bike 43:14, run 23:44. age group 5/25 overall men 35/132. I am what I am because of grace of God. I Co 15:10

Art

2010-05-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

Today was the art and music show for Ek and H. Pictures do not begin to describe Ek's square dance or the K4 rendition of wheels on the bus with kazoos, I will not try. But here is their adorable art. I had been hearing about this star fish for weeks! And H's fish is adorable. His hands won't be that size for long! How bout those orderly bubbles?

L's turn

2010-05-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

Not a whole lot to say here, I just love this smile. Oh wait, I thought of something. This is while we waited for L's class to perform. It was actually the first time H and Ek sat at something for L. I had already decided that they would miss ball to watch their sister, after watching them at 100s of things, it was her turn and they were going to be there. To my delight, they wanted to be and were so happy to be!

Smart big little L

2010-05-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

L had her last day of 2 year old preschool this week. She had a really great time in her class this year. Her teacher was so amazing. They did crafts everyday, learned a Bible truth every week and learned 10 Bible verses. I have not actually heard L say these verses, but I'm sure they are in there! She seemed to really get to know and like several little girls in her class especially Sara, Allie and Kensley. Sara will actually go to big school with her one day! This last week my little big girl decided she was big enough to walk into school all by herself, she would tell me to drop her off. Not exactly my favorite moment, but so proud that she wanted to be big. I remember how the year began with her asking at T where her class was. Her teachers were so surprised how well she talked and so delighted to see her little self potty train last fall. Her teacher said again when I picked her up the last day that you would never know she was the youngest in the room and said she was delightful. I think so too.

And this week, she made and identified an 'L.' She ate it right out of her toast.

Field day

2010-05-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

H had a blast at field day! He especially liked the "turtle" race. Love that he confused hurdles with turtles! I asked him if he through they were pretending they were jumping over turtles and he said yes! They did a bunch of track and field events- races, relay races, shot put with tennis balls. Wonderful! He was also a big fan of the long jump, he chose to jump and slide. Love watching that boy fun and play.

Not quite what I expected

2010-05-12T17:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Ek, H, L and I were out in the yard for an end of the year leaf project (that's another post completely). We walked the whole yard looking for our 5 types of leaves to collect, taking pictures, studying, exploring, trying to be good little scientist. We needed pine needles. Um, has anyone seen how tall pine trees are? Couldn't exactly grab a few. And I can't wait for a good wind to blow some down. Don't have a ladder tall enough. So I look into our lot next our driveway and see a small-ish pine tree. I give the kids a big spill-- "Ok kids, remember snakes are out, there are probably lots of snakes in there. I do not have boots on and neither do you, so you must, I repeat must, stay out of the woods, I will be very careful but I just want you to stay in the yard, Agreed?" They all nod with great reverence. "Good" I think and off I go, one step at a time being so careful to not step on a sleeping snake. Ek says, "Lets see what's growing in the garden!!" H and L follow with joyful, "yeah!!'s" Thirty seconds later, I'm not kidding, Ek says, "Mommy! There is a snake in the garden!"

Yep. There was, alright. Add it to the wildlife list (along with our various cats and turtles that I left off the last list.) I come out of the wilderness and back into our civilization to find a 3 foot long king snake slithering around the garden and my 3 children standing 10-15 yard away staring at it. Had it bed a 3 pound dog they would have run into the house screaming, but a snake, they stand and stare. hmmmm. Not sure about that one. So since he is a "good snake," we watched him slither back into the wilderness and we went inside, that's enough leaf collecting for one day.

Good question

2010-05-11T18:39:00.001-07:00

They say that children who ask a lot of questions will be very smart-- well, L will be brilliant! Today, while reading Goldilocks and the three bears she asked at least 25 questions. My favorite, "Where's her mama?" L, we have all been wondering that for years. And "Can I go to their house" Well, you do have curly hair. She would be Brownielocks. Would anyone join me in calling her that nickname?

L + a container of sprinkles = ?

2010-05-04T18:31:00.000-07:00

I said out loud today, if front of witnesses (HH, actually, and he laughed), "L don't pour out all the sprinkles or we won't have any left for our toast in the morning." Never thought I'd say that. And I'm not sure what I think about it. I do like a little colored sugar in the morning. Well, she did pour them all out. Rub them around a bit and lick her hands. Really, am I telling this story? sigh. But I did get the kitchen cleaned up a bit. the end.

Wildlife report

2010-05-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

Since living in our home we have seen quite the wildlife walk by... During the first week, mom and I returned from a walk to find a wild hog in the front yard. That same summer we enjoyed frequent visits from 2 ducks living in the pond down the street-- they would walk down the street to visit us. Sometimes of the year we year the chorus of quail all around us and one night during dinner we saw them marching across the yard. We always enjoy our bluebirds, blue jays, red headed woodpeckers and cardinals. I love nothing more that a bunny jetting through at top speed. This winter we would spy quite the deer family in the neighborhood in the evenings- our highest count one night was 11. I have spotted an armadillo in a neighbor's yard- I thought of TX. Not in our yard, but on the way to school there are several turkeys who choose to cross right in front of me. We saw a King snake 10 yards from our garden several weeks ago. Can I count Samson, the wild lab, as wildlife? If so, count him several times! I was not expecting this little creature today... and may I saw ewwww. We trapped him in a bucket and let him go in the pond. BH desperately wanted to take it to school. I do not thing TH would have slept well with it in her home!! What will be next?

I think she'll be back

2010-05-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

I think L's smile tells the story of this one. She enjoys (mild understatement) getting her nails painted very much! And, well, actutally, so do I. I tried to make the most of my disappointment of the rain spoiling our trip to the strawberry patch by meeting up at the mall with my 2 year old to and her generous Grandma to have nails done. Watching L was fabulous. I will remind her though, when she is finding it difficult to sit still, that I know she is capable if she can sit through trimming, filing, buffing, pink paint, sparkle paint and clear coat, oh and drying! She is a hoot. She asked if she could have her toes done too. I told her not today. She asked if she could when she was a mommy. I don't think it will be quite that long for this little girl.

All the time

2010-05-04T17:42:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure when it began. I'm not sure how it began, but it did. Ek wears a variety of rubber bands and bracelets with her watch everyday. She even has some little rubber bands on her watch band. Sometimes as many as 12. They are not so much to be used. How do I know? She told me one day last week when I was desperate for one that 'ummm, they aren't really for hair.' sigh. It has drawn some attention. But she likes them and that is fine.

Early

2010-05-04T17:32:00.000-07:00

It had been 6 weeks since the day of the great piercing. This is Ek's birthday present from her daddy and me. I knew she wanted to change them, so we opened birthday a bit early. She was thrilled with her pink flowers with a sparkle in the middle. They are a bit bigger than I wanted, but they are sweet. "Bigger that my ears!" is her description. Happy Birthday Ek.

I remember those cakes too.

2010-04-27T17:28:00.001-07:00

So H and I are riding home from school today and we were just talking. I told him he that we moved to GA the day after he turned one. His little faced lit up in wonder. Then he said "mommy, remember when I was 3 and I had all those basketball cakes?" What in the world, I thought. I literally turned and looked at him and said, 'what did you say?' He said, "you know mom, remember all those basketball cakes when I turned 3?" oh my. Actually H was turning 2. It was a little over 2 weeks before L was being born and the Ranslebens arrived the day of his party. His very large, very hot party. Kim arrived to an undecorated football and a big bowl of brown icing. And like a hundred (time has made the number grow) of cupcakes that I wanted to be baseballs, soccer balls and basketballs. So there you have it. H's earliest memory that he has expressed. Mom and I have talked many times wondering what will be remembered. I always hope it wasn't the tantrum in Kroger over cookies or the fall off the slide at the park. H remembers cake. He is my son!!! Well I must say that I remember Kim decorating them. I remember her wanting to settle into the corner of my kitchen and I told her "no! you must come to the center so I can see your face while we talk." I remember her not being able to leave until she saw L's face. So I remember weeks of my dear friend here. I remember all the honest talks when I could share my heart and know she would tear up quicker than I would over my woes and speak truth that would take me right to our Lord. I remember the morning we talked over the Trinity and we stood in her driveway with amazement over the majesty of our God. I remember watching Brennan run into the house for the last time in the fish dress and cutting it apart to make it into a blanket very soon. I remember repairing that blanket after a few months of love. I'm so grateful that I could call my dear Kim today and tell her 'hi' and 'love you' and 'we remember you.' Can't wait to see her again. Love to see her in my life all the time because of the impact she made on me. And so glad H remembers her cakes.

Racing

2010-04-26T02:58:00.000-07:00

We tried not to let the rain completely wash our day away Saturday. We had big plans to enjoy the Criterium events all day. The 5K was at 8:30. The forecast called for 100% chance of thunderstorms. J decided while eating his pancakes at 8:15 that he wanted to do it anyway. We ran out the door to start the race. He registered at 8:26, got to the start line at 8:29, found Ronda at the first turn after the 8:30 start and finished 21 minutes later. whew! I was so proud to see him come around the final turn to finish that fast. I was under the umbrella with 2 cups of Starbucks to give away when they caught their breath. J received a perfect prize of a can of coffee for his 3rd place age group finish and Ronda finished first in her age group. She gathered her prize while we held her bike at the start line of the bike ride to start 5 minutes later. We went home and gathered the kids and came back for their bike race. Ek won her heat!!! I couldn’t hold that in any longer. Ok, from the beginning. H had so much fun warming up on the course. It reminded me of a rollerskating rink. The kids were riding their bikes round and round the course. It started to rain as soon as the races started. Ek seemed a bit nervous, but dIdn’t want to make it worse by asking if she was. She was cold. H went first and rode great but did not finish first. It was not easy riding down hill and around the cones

in the rain! But he did great and was proud of himself. He was equally as proud to shake the ChickfilA cows hand while waiting for Ek to race! Ek took off down the hill quikly but not first, one little girl didn’t turn, another girl crashed and Ek methodically went around the cone to head up the hill in first place. She had the sweetest, happy little smile on her face as she knew she had won and peddled her way across the finish line. Oh we were so excited!! We were excited too to see them make the big loop in front of the crowd in the kids parade that night. Ek finished ahead of H. J was with H and declared while out of breath that they were much faster than last year! H was very proud of that. We hung around in the rain for a while under a huge tree that posed as our umbrella and watched some of the women’s race. It was raining so much thought, that we were cold and a bit unenthuased, so we left a bit early but full of fun memories of the day. Can’t wait for next year. Wait! One more thing, when we got to the car and buckled L in, she exclaimed, “hey! where’s my cow?!” The kids got ChickfilA cows when they crossed the finish line in the bike race. L suddenly realized she did not participate. Next year, L, next year.

Singing

2010-04-26T02:52:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at a youth rally the other night. Shane and Shane came to play and minister to the youth of our community. We are so grateful when we get opportunities like these. We took Ek and H to the First Baptist family life center and settled into the second row. One of the moments that I hope to remember forever is, there were two guys that opened up for them. One of the guys wrote “Oh how he loves us.” He said it had been taken by many artist over the years and has many versions. That was funny for me to hear because I have two versions on my ipod, John’s fav and my fav. H was in J’s arms with his feet on the chair in front of him. He sang “Oh how he loves us” with such joy and such enthuaism that my heart just soared the rest of the night. He also enjoyed very much dancing along to the music and even played along with his air guitar and drums a few times. There was such a peacefulness there that night. The music was so wonderful, they were so talented and we just enjoyed sitting and listening and singing along. Ek laid her head in my lap for a long time and watched thought the shoulders of the kids sitting in front of us. I was playing with her hair and there was something in her part, I asked her what it was and she shrugged and said, “paper mache?” Oh I laughed and laughed! It was a delightful evening.

Gift

2010-04-26T02:46:00.001-07:00

My sweet Ek loves her teacher now. We had a tough fall with teachers, but I think it was all worth it to get the one we have now. She is wonderful! She is kind, joyful, peaceful, encouraging and firm. Ek wanted to write her a letter and tell her how w

onderful she is. The letter has yet to be written, but she did take her some flowers for her desk. Ek was so excited to give her such a gift. I was so happy to share some of our beautiful yard flowers with the one who takes care of my sweet girl at school everyday!

Butterflies

2010-04-26T02:36:00.001-07:00

Ronda blessed us with an opportunity to watch caterpillars grow and turn into butterflies. It really was amazing. We got this little jar with these tiny little caterpillars that were as big as as piece of string. They ate and ate and grew and grew until they wrapped themselves all up and we waited patiently until they emerged as beautiful little butterflies. We were not very patiently to let them go though. I just was sad that their beautiful new wings couldn’t spread wide and go exploring. We waited until our sweet neighbors were home and HH graciously transfered them one by one to their beautiful Lantana. I had heard that those were their favorite. It was really something special to see 6 beautiful butterflies on one plant. They were so beautiful. We all stood around and just stared at them until one by one they got their courage to fly. What a gift to see these beautiful creatures. Butterflies always remind me of a craaft one of our friends did in Venezuela when the children glued little pieces of tissue paper to a butterfly with the verse “For in Christ you are a new creation, the old is gone, behold the new has come!” And I can say that when I first came to know the Lord for myself way back in college I did feel light as a butterfly. Knowing God loved me made me feel like my feet were off the ground. I will never forget that.

Let the celebration begin!

2010-04-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

Last night I got a gift. We began out celebration of our 10 year anniversary by taking pictures with our wedding photographer, ML, where we took our wedding pictures. It was so wonderful. My my my how 10 years have brought some big changes in our life. But amazingly, with all thanks to God, for all His provision and love, I was so so excited to take pictures with my J last night as a huge marker in our lives. It is a bit overwhelming to think about and I have months and months to think about the marker that it is, so I won't do it all tonight. But how awesome to return there with our 3 amazing children and each other, full of joy and life! Our photographer asked if it was more awkward to take on our wedding day or now that we had our children. I think I am so much more comfortable in my skin now than I was then especially when I am next to J. There were several comical moments. At one point we were taking pictures just the 2 of us and H comes running over begging us to pick him up because a dog had come along. ML told us to just keep smiling, he was laughing saying this was probably more what our life was like! I'm sure he had some real smiles out of us for those. H was fine, the dog was on a leash, once we told him that, he was happy again. Another time, he had us behind our children, he was trying to focus on them and have us kissing in the background. He told us to kiss and hold it, we got to giggling because he was taking forever, i peeked my eyes open, ML was looking at the images on his camera and the children had run away! I guess he only tells when to start kissing, not to stop! Oh we laughed! The kids were beyond hilarious. When they realized we were not taking stiff, sitting still pictures, they got happy, they continued to get happy until they reached delirium and went a bit beyond that. They laughed and smiled and played and jumped and bounced and climbed. Thankfully we were outside and not in a studio. We would have lasted in a studio for about 10 minutes. We played outside for hours. I cannot wait, cannot wait to see the images. I am soo sooo soooo thankful for my family. All of it. And am so grateful for the 4 I get to live with. Can't wait, too, to see what we look like in 10 more years!