After HIS Heart

12

2011-12-18T06:34:00.005-05:00

Twelve years ago today, I married Chirs. We have been together since March 1994 (high school sweethearts). 3 children, 2 cats, 3 houses, and so many wonderful memories, brings us to today.

Two kids walked down the aisle that day...one just starting his career, and the other with a year left of college. I remember all the emotions I felt on that chilly, snowy, winter day. Tears of joy as I walked toward Chris, and tears of saddness as I looked into my dad's tear-filled eyes as he let his little girl go. I couldn't stop smiling during the ceremony...I was marrying the man (boy), I loved. We didnt know what life would bring, but we agreed to find out together.

I love him more today than 12 years ago. There have been ups and downs along the way, but they have made us stronger and made us who we are today! No matter what we faced he would say, "it will be okay" (even though he was convincing himself at the same time). He is a wonderful provider for our family, and continually puts the kids and I before himself.

There is no greater joy than watching him roll around on the floor with the kids, and then snuggle them in bed and whisper prayers in their ears. His eyes light up when they come racing through the kitchen as he walks in from work. He has little routines, that only he can do with them. Little games that only dad can play.

I love you Chris! I am looking forward to what the next twelve years and beyond will bring.

Changes

2011-10-15T13:43:00.008-04:00

1st day of school for E and P...Melia started one day before them

He looks so grown up

Sister love for E's first day

first day of 4 yearl old preschool

Melia and her teacher (I was able to pick her teacher...She is the teacher I co-taught with for many years...she moved to kindergarten 2 years ago. I am thankful she is M's teacher)

Mommy and Daddy got to go with her on her first day

Sister love on her first day!

This last six weeks since the start of school has brought about many changes. Melia started Kindergarten this year. She goes all day everyday, the first major change. I miss her when she is away from me all day. She is learning so much. Yesterday, she came home counting to 20 in Mandarin Chinese. At her school, all students get 30 min of Chinese every day. It is incredible all that she is learning. She also started violin lessons last week. It is an optional program that the students can participate in. There is a small fee, but she gets two 30 min lessons on the violin with a small group of kindergartners during her school day. She has had three lessons, with the first one taking time to measure each student for their violin. She brought it home for the first time yesterday, and told me the names of all the parts, the rules involved in holding it and the name of each string. She is amazing me with everything she is learning. Eva's preschool class also gets Chinese instruction and she came home counting to 10 this week. I am thankful to work in such a great school system, and very glad we made the decision to send our kids to that district.

About three weeks into school, the preschool special education teacher in my building had to be hospitalized unexpectedly due to complications with her pregnancy. (she has since had her baby who was born very early weighing under 2 pounds, but I am pleased to say that he is doing very well at this point). That brought about a second huge change for our family. I took over her afternoon class, therefore, I am now working full time. It could be for several months, but I am up to the challenge. I am enjoying working with 3-5 year olds again. E and P are in daycare 4 days a week now and my mother in law graciously takes care of them one day a week. The biggest challenge is getting up and out of the house every day, having three young kids, fed, dressed, hair done, and in the car by 7:30-7:40am. We are falling into new routines and I am thankful for the opportunity. By the end of the week we are all pretty tired, but we are cherishing family time on the weekends. I have had to learn to prioritize at a whole new level. Some things (mostly around the house), have had to be let go or expectations drastically decreased. I would be lying if said there weren't moments in the last few weeks, that I questioned my sanity and a few tears weren't shed, but all in all it is working. We have a lot on our plate right now, but we are just taking it one day at a time and learning to let go of the small stuff.

Enjoying the Process

2011-08-29T08:53:00.003-04:00

Yesterday a reoccurring theme made its way through my mind. I participated in my second sprint triathlon in the early hours of the morning. This race was much harder than the first race I did in June for a variety of reasons. The course was much more difficult and my training has lacked in the last month. The bike course was a very hilly road path through Holly Recreational Park. It was a two loop course, so after completing the first loop, I knew what was coming. :) Part way through the second loop the thought, "enjoy the process", went through my head. Even though I was completing one of the hardest things I have done in my life, I wanted to enjoy the process. The park was beautiful, the weather gorgeous. The path was tree lined and in a few spots lakes lined the path. It gave me something to focus on instead of looking at the massive hill I was pedaling up. It was a great experience overall.

Later in the day yesterday, when 2 out of the three kids were napping, I decided to mow the lawn. I wanted to enjoy the sunshine and the lawn was looking like a jungle, so why no mow it? It is actually a task that I enjoy. Up and down each row, and again I thought, "enjoy the process." Instead of trying to rush through, just enjoy it.

Sometimes I get caught up in the tasks of life, that I don't stop to enjoy them. It is easier to say, I just want this to be done and try and get it done and move on to something else. I do this with the kids sometimes. Some phases that kids go though are not so fun. Yet, they are only little once and I want to try and focus on "enjoying the process" more often. Again, it is easy sometimes (at least for me) to fall into the trap of complaining, focusing on how hard something is, or just rushing through something to get it done. I'm not blind to the fact that there are terrible tragedies and difficulties in life that people face, and enjoying the process just isn't feasible or seems impossible at times. But in my day to day, I want to try and accomplish this. I believe it will make me a more patient, can be attitude changing, and put a smile on my face instead of a scowl. I hope that you stop and "enjoy the process" in something today!

Summer

2011-08-23T08:53:00.025-04:00

This summer has been filled with all kinds of adventures, changes, and growth. I can’t believe school is just around the corner.

· Melia graduated from preschool and will be heading to Kindergarten in a few short weeks
· Parker turned 2
· Just weeks later he was potty trained!!!! No one in diapers now! (He was the youngest to be trained out of the three kids)
· Parker moved from his crib to his full size bed. He looks like such a peanut in his big bed
· Chris and I completed our first Sprint Triathlon
· Melia and Eva learned to swim with out any rings or arm floaties and Parker is swimming just with arm floaties...We spent alot of time in the water. All three of them are jumping into the pool (the girls by themselves and P with floaties) :) I am so proud of their accomplishments.
· Parker learned to ride a scooter and a tricycle this summer.
· The girls learned to pump their feet on the swings and LOVE going as high as they can
· Melia is reading simple words and phrases
· The girls can both count to one hundred by 10's

I love that I have the summer off and can spend so much time watching them learn and grow. I would not trade it for anything in the world. I am so thankful I have this time with them.

· We spent ALOT of time in the pool, at the beach, splash pad, and parks (gotta love free fun)
· Had a great 4th of July party with family and friends
· Went to 3 firework shows
We went to a few festivals and parades
We spent a week in Lake City, MI with my family and closest friends (19 people...11 adults and 8 kids (all 7 and under) in one house. We had an awesome time.
We went to the Armada fair and watched the Monster trucks
We spent a lot of time biking and running
We celebrated with my BFF who turned 30 and finished her MBA with a Pirate Murder Mystery Party!
We are ending the summer spending three days camping with our best friends and their little guy in tents (with no water or electric) over Labor day weekend...it doesn't get much more fun than that :) Can't wait.

Everyday was an adventure and the kids woke up asking what are we going to do today! I start school again next week and Melia starts Kindergarten the week after that...all day, everyday in school. While I am excited to watch her continue to learn and grow, I will miss her. It will be strange to only have Eva and Parker home on my days off. While I am sad summer is coming to an end, I am excited for the new season we are embarking on. It is amazing the changes that can take place in ust a few short months. I am one blessed momma!

Paker kissed (he loves animals) a variety of animals this summer...here it is a cow at the Strawberry Festival

Arrrr Matey!

Melia walking across the bridge at her preschool graduation

A trip to the zoo

Parker's big bed

A Work in Progress

2011-08-14T13:39:00.003-04:00

A few weeks back we rescued this gem from what would of been eternity in a garbage dump.

Slowly, we have been stripping the old paint away layer by layer to reveal the pure beauty of the wood in its original state. It is a work in progress.

Last month we heard a message at church titled, "Taking the Plunge." It was a back to the basics message on salvation and growing up in the Lord. A few days later, I was stripping the layers of paint away, and I pondered the words I heard earlier that week. Just like the dresser before me, I (and you) are works in progress. When we were 10 years old we knew more than when we were 5, at 20 we knew more than we did at age 10 and so on. As we grow in age, hopefully we grow in maturity. The Pastor mentioned during his sermon that "growing up" brings stability and wisdom. Words that seem simple, but they impacted me differently this time. I want stability and wisdom in my life. I want to be stable (or even more stable) for my kids, for my husband and others around me.

I want more than the stability that comes with age, I want the stability that comes from growing up, maturing, and increasing in wisdom in the things of the Lord. A stability that cannot be shaken. A stability that brings a new level of maturity. This stability takes some work. I am done sitting on the sidelines, waiting for it. I am chasing after it with all I have. The Pastor mentioned sitting in church for 10 or 20 years does not make you mature in the things of the Lord. While it is very beneficial, there is more to it than that. As a family, we are reorganizing and reprioritizing. I am sure it will stretch and change us, but in the end we will be better for it.

Just as the old paint is being stripped away, so are layers in my life. I am a work in progress and I am thankful for the things that the Lord is doing.

Setting a Goal

2011-07-30T19:01:00.008-04:00

Last summer a good friend of ours particiapted in several Sprint Triathlons. After listening to him talk about them, I thought, I wonder if I could ever do that. This thought ran through my head several times throughout the winter. Spring came, and I decided, I was all in. In April, Chris and I signed up for our first Sprint Tri, which was going to take place in June. Let the training begin! I already had a love for biking and have always enjoyed swimming, but more just for fun. The running had me a little nervous. I ran track in highschool for a couple years, but lets be honest that was a long time ago :) I made a training calendar and set out to accomplish this goal. Because we signed up together, Chris and I took turns taining in the evenings, and on the weekends tried to train together (along with the kids). We would pull them in bike trailers while riding, come home put the wheel on and push them as we ran. If I could do it with the kids, I was confident I could do it without the kids. After a few months of training, race day was finally here.

The race took place at Belle Isle in Detroit and consisted of a 500 meter swim, a 12 mile bike and a 3.4 mile run. My three goals: finish the race, do it under 2 hours, and run the whole run. Two out of the three I was able to do. I did finish the race and did it in 1 hr and 47 min, but I did walk a few times during the running portion. Both of our familes came out to support us the day of the race. I felt so honored to have them there. We had to be at Belle Isle at 6:30am and our familes were there, with our kids by 7:30am (that's love). I am so thankful for there support.

Our Support Crew!

Our racing buddies: Team Woodruff, Spina, and Rayner

Getting ready for the swim. The water temp was 65 and the air temp was 60...brrr

There were 50-60 people in my wave to start the race...About 700 people participated in the race that day!

2 down 1 to go...swim and bike are done. Coming into the transition area to drop of my bike and put my running shoes on!

Chris coming in after the bike...the sun did peak out from behind the clouds during the bike, but it was still in the 60's!

Coming down the chute to finish the race!!!

VICTORY!! I couldn't have been more proud. I came around the final corner and all of our family (as well as Chris, Corey, and Jason, who had already finished) were cheerning me on. I fought back tears, hearing all of them shout my name and knowing that I was just feet away from finishing the race. Corey yelled, "Sprint" as I ran by. I put my head down, and with the rush of pure adrenaline, sprinted the final 150 feet to the finish line.

Thank you Chris for supporting me and letting me drag you into this!

It was a cold and dreary day, but I had a great time and was so proud that I had accomplished the goal. I took a few weeks off and am now back to training for another tri at the end of August!!!

All About Parker

2011-06-20T23:36:00.011-04:00

These last few months have been really busy with the end of the school year, training for our first sprint triathlon, all the end of the year parties/events for the kids school, and just life in general. While other posts will be coming about some of those things, this post is
All About Parker!!

Parker Turned Two!!!

He doesn't look at the camera much these days :)

It's hard for me to believe but it's true. I love that little boy more and more every minute. He is changing and growing everyday. He's sporting long, blond curls for the summer months. He is weighing in at 26 lbs and is all boy. He loves to play, run, throw, jump, and kick. He is putting longer sentences together by the week. He generally speaks in 3 word phrases now, and sometimes surprises me with 5 or 6 words at a time. He has a contagious laugh and a heart-warming smile.

Over the weekend we had a "Two Turning Two" Party with our best friends little boy, Ty. The boys are 10 days apart and couldn't be any cuter. I get so much joy out of watching them play and interact. From matching shirts, to matching gifts, the party was a day of fun. After the party we decided to do an impromptu Rayner/Pinchback camp out in our backyard. We pitched tents, built a fire, ate smores, and slept in the backyard. It was a perfect end to a great day.

Matching Trikes

A "Two" cake made by my sister

Sharing some cake with his best buddy!

Waiting for the tents to go up after dinner

Parker boy, your momma loves you more than you know! Happy Birthday Precious Boy!

Real Hope

2011-04-22T14:53:00.003-04:00

A group of girls, one being my BFF, from a local college are a part of an awesome project. Be a part and you have a chance to win a $500 visa gift card! Please check it out!! Here is a peak into the project!

Real Hope's mission is to show the love of God in a way that makes its recipients stand back and say, "Today, I know I'm valued."

What We're DoingWe've chosen Pontiac High School for our Hope project recipient and plan to bring its library to life!!!

We will splash the walls with color and motivational materials, as well as fill the shelves with books (we're looking to partner with local bookstores to share in that effort). If there are funds remaining, computers will also be purchased.

http://realhopeschooledition.blogspot.com/

Hardest Job

2011-04-02T10:43:00.010-04:00

I recently read a friends blog post in which she talked about disciplining her two year old and feeling like she should know what to do, but just doesn't seem to have all the answers. I have felt/thought this more and more in recent days. Her credentials are similar to mine, a soon to be Elementary Ed degree with an Early Childhood Endorsement. In her post, she states she should know what to do and she has worked with children and helped shape them for as long as she can remember. I share these same sentiments. Before having children I was confident I would be able to handle the challenges, joys, tears, etc that come with having children. My confidence, while still present, has changed. New revelations have come. Shaping the lives of children in a classroom, is very different than training your own children (so I've learned :). While some of the same techniques can be used, others may not work as well. In the bubble of the classroom, all your attention is on the students. It is much easier to be consistent. When at home and all the other aspects of life are vying for your attention, sometimes this constancy is compromised. Having more than one child, I have learned that each of my children have very different personalities and different forms of discipline work with each of them. A time out may work with one, but not with another. Then each situation, may have it's own consequences. Leading to many challenges in the parenting department. The bottom line is that each day has it's own adventures. Just as the kids are growing and learning, I am doing the same. When faced with a situation, we go with our gut, bring in some of my training, and use past experiences to face the situation head on. While parenting is the hardest job I have ever done, it also the most rewarding. There's NOTHING better that an I Love You at the end of the day or listening to little feet run down the hallway and being greeted with sweet kiss on the cheek to wake me up. At school my job is pretty consistent throughout the day. At home, my job as a mom is always evolving and changing. The pressure (or perceived pressure) from society and those around us adds to the dynamic of parenting. People are so quick to judge and jump to conclusions in all areas of life, but especially parenting. I was probably one of those people before I had kids :) Kids act out, and it's said, "They don't have any discipline at home" or "their parents need to get control". Easier said than done. Looking beyond these judgements hard for me. One of our kiddos in particular has been more challenging than the other two. She has traits that will one day make her a strong and productive leader in society, but training her along the way has proved difficult at times. There have been times, and are even now, that I don't want to go out and be around friends and family, anxious that she will have a meltdown or lash out at someone, and my parenting will be criticized. How will I handle it with all those eyes on me? What will people think? These are insecurities/pride issues that I have dealt with in many areas of my life. I am pleased to say that this is changing, while I still have times filled with anxiousness, worry, and fear, I have MANY more times, that frankly, I don't really care what others think. While I know this sounds harsh, hear my heart. I have come to a place that I only want to please my Lord and Savior. While I will gladly listen to the opinions and thoughts of others, the most important thing for me is pleasing the Lord in all I do and that includes training my children. We all live in different situations, different ages and amounts of kids, different jobs, and time commitments, different amounts of support, but the bottom line is we need to love one another as God loves us. Be quick to encourage instead of quick to judge. This should pertain to all areas in our lives. In my friends post she referenced the "three C's: calm, caring, and consistent as well as the 90:10 ratio, "which states that interactions with your child should be 90 parts positive and 10 parts negative or better." Hard sometimes, but VERY true. My fave line in her post, writing about reading books on discipline lately, was, "My experience with theories is that they work wonderfully in a book, with the ideal child in mind. In practice, however, things are a bit more complicated. Interactions with real children are often more complex than the books can portray. It's frustrating to read or know something, then try it out and end up with a different outcome than you expected." This couldn't be more true. I too have been reading about discipline lately, and its very humbling to read a book, in which it states many of the things you are doing are "wrong." While I believe that there are absolutely things I need to change, I also believe that no one knows my children better than me. I do the best job I know how, and face each situation as it comes. Parenting is a ever-changing and evolving thing. We learn as we go, and make changes where needed. I am thankful for new mercies and grace each day. Love your children today just for who they are. Its the most important job we will ever have. Now for something a little more upbeat...before the last snowflake has melted (yes we still have little bits of snow on the ground here in MI) I give you "Winter Fun 2011" videos:

Legacy

2011-01-29T09:19:00.005-05:00

I am not usually the thinker, reflector, dreamer type, but all of these have been a bigger part of my life over the last few weeks. I have questioned many things in my life over the last few weeks...why do we do what we do? Why do we serve the Lord the way we do? Why do we talk and act certain ways? Why do we train our children in the way we do? Are we being wise financially? Why do certain things happen the way they do? The list could go on. What has brought about all this questioning? Many factors: things I have heard, seen, and been a part of over the last months.

Legacy is a word that had kept coming to mind. What legacy am I going to leave? Last week at church, our Pastor talked about all the "noise" in this world. The noise included technology, phones, ipods, computers, facebook, twitter etc. I will be the first to admit that these things can consume me at times. It is easy to spend hours reading blogs, looking at facebook etc. I try to keep this computer time for when the kids are in bed, but it does, at times, spill over into other parts of the day. How do I want my kids to remember me...in front of a phone or computer all the time? Definitely not. I don't think they will, but I want them to know that they are ALWAYS the priorty and none of these other things really matter. Nothing else really matters in life besides them right now. They are only in this home for a certain amount of time, and I want to cherish every moment I have with them. A shift is taking place in my heart. Priorities being re-organized. I don't want the "typical" American family. I want an extraordinary life, living beyond ourselves, and all things typical. A life that reflects the One who gave us this life. A life that is more about others than myself. A life that teaches my children that caring and compassion for others is really what matters. A life that is filled with worship and the Word. A life that reflects Jesus to those around me.

Just over a year ago I wrote THIS post. It has something I have thought about many times over the last year and it has been weighing heavy on my heart these last few weeks. From time to time I watch "19 kids and Counting", a show depicting the life of the Duggar family who have 19 children. They are an INCREDIBLE family. They are a bible loving, homeschooling, have no TV, only use computer for school, all play an instrument, put family first kind of family. Recently, on Yah**, I watched a video of another family that is very similar to the Duggars. They have 18 children and live by many of the same values. Watching these families is such an inspiration to me. Don't get me wrong, I do not desire to birth 15 more children. :) But, I strongly believe are family is not complete with three. How many more? Only the Lord knows. What will that look like, I am not sure, but there are thousands of children, young and old, out there that need a family. A life long friend of mine, opened their home this summer to a teenage boy that needed a home. I have not had the opportunity to talk in depth with her about this, but she said the need was there and they felt led. They have two young children of their own, but decided to open their home to this teenage boy. His and their life will never be the same...it will be better! I want to be in that place. Open to expanding our family. Opening our home to children who do not have one. I have even been dreaming lately of living on a few acres having 10 kids, homeschooling all of them, and just loving life. I know this all seems flowery and perfect, and life isn't that way sometimes, but I believe that we are being prepared for the challenge. I know this seems strange to many of you, but to me it's what I desire to be my normal. I don't know what my life will look like in 2, 5, or 10 years, but the bottom line is, I want to be open to whatever that Lord has for us.

I know this post is all over the place, but hear my heart, there are stirrings that are taking place. A shifting in priorities, desires for higher things, a wanting to live differently, be set apart, and expecting extraordinary things.

Birthday and Christmas!!!

2011-01-20T14:36:00.009-05:00

Melia turned 5 a few weeks back. Crazy! We had a small family party for her and she soaked up every second of the attention. She loved having her cousins at her Princess/Barbie party. My sister made an awesome Barbie cake for her. We also had a pinata for the kids. It wasn't one of those swing the bat or stick and hope no one gets hurt ones; it was a pull string one. Each child pulls a ribbon until one of them releases the trap door and the candy comes pouring out. They loved it.

She will be heading to kindergarten in the fall. This is exciting and bittersweet all at the same time. My time with her will be much more limited, but I am excited to watch her grow and learn so much. We are debating doing school of choice for her and sending her to the full day kindergarten program in the district that I teach in. Our home district offers 1/2 day, which means on the days I work she would spend her afternoons in a day care room. On the other hand, I will have to drive her to the school on my days off. We are still mulling it over, but we are leaning towards the full day program. She will love learning and making new friends and I would rather have her doing that, than sitting in daycare. Decisions...decisions :)

Beautiful Girl!!!

We had a wonderful Christmas. I love that time of year so much. Time off work for Chris, much family time, the house is decorated...it is almost my favorite time of year, taking a close second to laying by the pool on a hot summer day :) We were very blessed with many incredible gifts and had much time to relax and enjoy each other. Here are a few pics :)

My mom and dad made these GORGEOUS doll houses for the kids for Christmas (they actually made three one for my brother and sister's kids too.) The detail work is amazing and the kids LOVE playing with it. It will be a life long cherished gift.

I made many homemade gifts this year and this was one of my favorite projects. I made all our kids and many of the kids we love aprons and chef hats. They looked adorable :) My nieces are great models.

New year: Speaking Life

2011-01-11T10:19:00.005-05:00

This moring as I was playing with the kids in their rooms, Eva put a CD in their CD player. It was John Waller. I was reminded of this post from almost two years ago (one of my favorite blog posts). These same feeligns have been on my heart in the recent weeks, so I thought I would repost it...its a great reminder for me and hopefully for you today!

Chris and I laid by a fire in the
fireplace until way too late into the night a few weeks back talking about this very thing. As we embark on this new year let us think of our words and choose them carefully...let us be a blessing, thinking of others before ourselves (even when we don't want to). Let us leave a legacy of blessing. That's what I want for my family. I want my children to see us encouraging and building others up, serving others before ourselves and giving selflessly.

(Origninal post from 6-18-08)

Speaking Life

Over the last few weeks/months, several situations have come up that have really got me thinking. My writing may seem a little disconnected to start, but I will bring it back together in the end, I promise. Two months ago Chris's grandmother went to be with the Lord. In more recent days I have read or heard of other situations involving sudden tragedy/death of people young and old. I have given much thought to how precious life is. When I think about our time on this earth in comparison to eternity, it is a short time. Thinking about how we interact with people and the words we use has been a reoccurring theme in my heart over these past few months. On father's day we were celebrating with family and out of no where, during a conversation, something very hurtful was said to my husband. He quietly slipped away from the situation and went to another part of the house. The rest of us were left there in a moment of awkward silence. The day went on, but I was left with a nagging in my heart. Another family member asked the person involved to go and make it right with Chris. The response was I guess, but I just have a way of offending people, making an excuse for his actions. The situation was resolved and forgiveness was given before we left for the day, but the hurt was still there.

Another situation occurred this week. A friend and I were at McDonald's having lunch with our kids. There were several other kids and families in the play place this day. A little boy, maybe 7 or 8 was playing alone. After observing him for sometime, I determined he was most likely Autistic. This little boy was getting agitated and hit another boy and his mom. This mom then asked who this kid belonged to and in a angry tone, speaking loudly enough for everyone to here reported what happened. The person that was with the Autistic child, who I later determined was not his mom, claimed him and made him come and sit at the table. There were two other children with this mom, and when they were told it was time to go, they whined and complained a little. The mom's response to her children was "I know, he (speaking of the Autistic boy) ALWAYS ruins everything". My heart broke for this child. Again this conversation took place, loud enough for everyone in the area to hear. Although the boy seemed unphased by what was being said about him, the words were still spoken. What impression/attitudes does this statement leave on her children about this other boy, and more importantly this child is being cursed by the words of another person. I try very hard to leave the words always and never out of my vocabulary. Even if something happens 99 out of 100 times the word always cannot be used. They are so absolute.

Over the past weeks Rebekah and I have been getting together to pray and study the book of James. A few weeks ago we studied James chapter 3.James 3: 9-12 says,With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.I read these words, ones that I had heard and read before and did not give it much thought to them at the time.

Over these last weeks they have resonated in my heart. Our words our powerful, they can curse or bring blessing. Being faced with situations involving death, recently, I began thinking about the situation with Chris differently; questioning what if?. What if the hurtful words were the last ones to be spoken? What if this was the last time we were to see this person? Many times we walk around taking life for granted, but in a moment a very different picture could lay before us. We assume we will have time to resolve offenses or make a relationship right. I know this all seems a little morbid, but it's what is in my heart. I am not one to live thinking or fearing death, but I do want to be conscious of what is coming out of my mouth. Am I speaking words of life? Even in everyday conversation, what seems harmless, can open the floodgates for the enemy. I was mowing the grass this afternoon, listening to my IPOD, when the following song came on. I listened to the words and it brought all the thoughts over the past few months together. What are you going to choose today...blessing or curse? What legacy are you leaving behind?

You can here the song here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tvDQpaJBuo

John Waller "The Blessing"

Let it be said of us While we walked among the living.Let it be said of us By the ones we leave behind. Let it be said of us That we lived to be a blessing for life. Let it be said of us That we gave to reach the dying. Let it be said of us By the fruit we leave behind. Let it be said of us That our legacy is blessing for life.

This day You set life, you set death right before us, This day Every blessing and curse is a choice now, And we will choose to be a blessing for life. Let it be said of us That our hearts belonged to Jesus. Let it be said of us That we spoke the words of life.Let it be said of us That our heritage is blessing for life.

This day You set life, you set death right before us, This day Every blessing and curse is a choice now, And we will choose to be a blessing for life. Blessings and Curses are choices,'Cause blessings and curses are choices. Will we build up, tear down? The moment of truth is now. For your Kingdom, for our Children For the sake of every nation For your Kingdom, for our ChildrenFor the sake of every nationWe will choose to be a blessing for life. For life.

Blessing for life.

Christmas Party

2010-12-16T07:42:00.004-05:00

The girls had their preschool Christmas party last night. All the boys and girls performed a concert for the parents. It was adorable. Santa came for a visit too!

Melia went running up and could not wait for her turn.

Eva decided after a while that she would like too sit on his lap (she really just wanted the candy cane he was giving :)

As you can see P was not a fan at all.

Here are two songs from their concert (they were both so cute, I couldn't pick just one)! It makes me beam everytime I watch it. Can't believe they are old enough to be singing in a preschool concert!

Watch for the kisses half way through :)

Football and Snow

2010-12-13T13:31:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, we had our first real snow of the season. Of course we went out and played in it. But football is also a priority and watching Uncle Dave kick for the Lions makes it even more fun. Chris had a great time in the snow with the kids. I hid behind the camera. :)

Snowball fight with Daddy!

Our first snowman of the season!

Our Snowbabies!!

How to build a snowman! by: Melia

How to build a snowman! by: Eva

Parker can't tell us how to build a snowman, but he can say football and touchdown!

It was a great snowy, football filled, Sunday!!

Thankful

2010-12-07T21:47:00.006-05:00

I am so thankful for my three little turkeys, with their homemade handprint turkey shirts, that they are not old enough to fight me to wear...yet :)

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I ended up hosting at the last min. I cooked the turkey, that my mom bought, and the mashed potatoes. Everyone else brought the rest. I love nothing more than setting a beautiful table and entertaining. It's something we don't do as often these days, so I decided to go all the way. We had 26 people total including kids. I have a set of 12 Christmas dishes and my grandmothers set of china, so dishes were plentiful. The day before was my birthday and I spent it doing what I love most, playing with my kids and preparing for guests. Chris and I did sneak out for a late dinner. It was a glorious day.

The table was already set so Thursday morning was spent doing last min. preparing and cooking. Our family started arriving at noon. The smell of turkey filled the house, kids running about and laughing, cousins playing, family hugging...it doesn't get much better.

After a bit we filled our plates and all sat down (in our assigned spots noted by the little Indian corn name cards that my mom, Chris and I spent late into the night making :) and began enjoying the meal that many hands had prepared.

After a few mins, I moved to the end of the table to help the kids and that's when my day met perfection. I sat looking down at 24 feet of glorious table, 26 people eating, talking, and smiling. I was beaming. Chris caught my eye and knew then that even though it was more work, that letting me use china and making the long table made my heart smile. He quietly smiled a knowing smile.

Even the kids got to eat with china and stemware :)

The day lingered, people left to be with other family, but mom, dad, linds (sister), and syd stayed and enjoyed the evening. Matt and Carly (my brother and his wife) came back around 8pm with the kids and we spent the evening playing games. I couldn't have asked for a better day :)

And of course the day wouldn't have been complete without the trying-to-get-six-kids-ages 6,5 (almost),4,3,2,1-to-smile-and-all-look-in-the-same-direction

picture with Nana and Poppy :)

I AM THANKFUL!!!

Miss this...catching up

2010-11-07T22:08:00.008-05:00

It has been way to long. I miss the blog world...reading, writing, pictures. I just haven't made or had the time to sit down and write. I am smack dab in the middle of two online college classes to keep my teaching certification current and they are taking any and all extra time that I have. I love learning, but it is a lot of work. :)

We have been busy this fall. We have had orchard visits, play dates, work, a lot of great family time, and all around fun.

I have things stirring in my heart that I really want to write about, things I am learning and some changes in our lives, but it will have to wait till school is done (5 weeks :) In the mean time here are some fall pictures!

A day at the farm with great friends.

The girls

The boys

Auntie B and the girls

Melia is the only one that would scoop out the seeds from the pumpkins we picked. We didn't carve them, but we made some yummy pumpkin seeds.

Another day at the farm!

The kids LOVED climbing on the old tractors at the farm.

How big is she? She loves her buddy Ty.

Strike a pose!

Parker loved watching the pigs

Eva turned 3!!! We had a great little party. She got a new bike and loves riding it to the park.

My sister made a BEAUTIFUL cake for Eva.

Could she be any cuter...love that girl

A day out with the cousins over labor day weekend

Green bean, apple, and pear picking with my family

pictures, pictures, pictures

2010-09-19T11:25:00.011-04:00

It's been a while...the start of the school year (work for me), family fun, birthdays, and just plain life has consumed all my time lately. Here are some pictures from the last few weeks.

The first day of school brought a ton of emotion. Tears, Joy and Stress all in one. Getting three young kids up, dressed, hair done, fed and out the door by 7:15 is no small feat, but we are falling into a routine. I have as much as humanly possible done the night before, to make our morning run smooth. The girls did great with no tears, just shy faces and a little nervouseness in their eyes as I walked out the door. P on the other hand, cries every time I drop him off. I am sure he stops by the time I am to my car, but it breaks my heart leaving him.

The very cute Thirty-One bags, sold to me by my friend Laura, are packed and ready to go.

Some Family Fun

Labor Day weekend always brings the Peach Fest in Romeo. We had a great time at kids day, with all our nieces too.

Waiting for a train ride.

Coming soon a birthday post and some stirrings of my heart :)

Dylan Update

2010-09-08T18:38:00.005-04:00

Remember THIS post about Dylan the little boy in the picture on my sidebar. Well things have changed for him and his family and he will be undergoing another open heart surgery on september 20th. A friend and neighbor of the family is holding a fundraiser this weekend. You can read about it at the facebook link below. If you are in the area, please consider attending. It is a GREAT cause. This family needs this love and support at this very difficult time.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=146129142075873

”>

Summer...Where did you go?

2010-09-03T08:39:00.003-04:00

I had to face reality this week. It was back to work for me, after an incredible summer home with the kids. School starting brought a week of full time work for me...back to school breakfasts, all day meetings, setting up my classroom in a new building that was still under construction most of the week, and the best part, one nice long weekend ahead with my family.

This summer brought many changes around here...

Eva mastered potty training

Melia learned to swim completely on her own, with no help from a life jacket or arm swimmies

Parker and Eva gave up the passy

Parker stopped nursing

Parker learned to walk

to name a few of the major ones. We had a wonderful summer filled with vacation, family, friends, many trips to the park, a fair, bike rides, and so much more. I am so thankful I get to to be home in the summer.

This was also the first summer with our garden. It was a huge success. Our final garden tally count is...

Zucchini...13 Pea pods...14 (we only ended up with one plant) Green beans...32 (after replanting and almost not making it, they finally did give us some beans) Cucumber...15 Green peppers...9 big and 6 small mixed peppers and finally our 5 tomato plants gave us 95 large tomatoes so far with about 20-30 still waiting to be picked. I can't wait to can sauce and stewed tomatoes. Already looking forward to next year :)

The fall brings changes too. I am in a new building this year and the kids are going to day care/preschool. We went and visited all the classrooms that the kids will be going to last night. They were nervous and excited all at the same time. Surprisingly, Eva was the first to run and play. P and M tentatively watched and hid their faces, when their teachers talked to them. I can't believe that the girls will both be starting preschool. E is so excited to go to school like she watched her big sister do last year. I am really excited to be able to peek in on them and see them throughout the day. P is at another location, but grandma works near by, and is looking forward to visits with him.

Another big change this fall, I will add college student to the list. Every five years as a teacher I am required to take 6 credit hours to keep my certification current. Well, I am in my fifth year and the six credits need to be done by June. Next time I don't plan on waiting so long, but growing our family has filled the last five years and time just got away from me. While I am excited about being a student again, (I love taking classes and learning), my ability to juggle wife, mom, teacher, friend etc. is a little daunting. I am confident that I can do it, it will just take a little re-prioritizing and good time management. Both classes are 8 weeks and online, so it will go quick. I ordered my books and am going to pick them up today. I have a few more weeks before classes start, so I can focus on my family and starting the school year for a little longer.

Have a great weekend!!!!

Free Family Fun

2010-08-17T07:53:00.005-04:00

I used to think, to have fun it had to involve money being spent. ie. going to the movies, a dinner date, zoo, water park etc. Living on a strict budget, these days, has not left much room for extra spending on these types of things. But we have discovered there is still plenty of fun to be had. I am sure many of you have done these things, but wanted to share some of my experiences and hoping you will share some of yours in the comments.

Summer is a great time for free family fun...

splash pads- Splash pads seem to be popping up all over these days. There are two that we have tried. There is a new one in Oxford thats free for residents and a small fee for non-residents. Adults are free! We have family in Oxford, so we've been able to get in free and the kids have really enjoyed it......once they got over the freezing water :) We have also ventured to Partridge Creek Mall. They have jets that shoot water from the ground and a kids play area right next to each other. The kids LOVE it there.

beaches- We have been to several beaches this summer. While it takes some work to pack everything needed for three young kids, it provides great free entertainment. I've also had to get over having sand in EVERYTHING from the van to between every toe, but worth it for free family fun.

bike rides- If you have bikes and don't mind the exercise, this is one of our favorites. The kids sit in the trailer and enjoy the scenery and we get exercise all at the same time. We usually try to stop at a park or maybe splurge for an ice cream cone on our ride to give the kids something to do. Their favorite stop is at this little Pioneer town, in our town that has four goats that will eat anything that you stick through the fence.

local parks - try a different one each week. There are lots of parks around from community ones to school playgrounds.

library events- I feel this is a severely untapped resource. There are many fun things that libraries have to offer. Story time, craft times, special events, and if nothing else, an outing to bring new books and sometimes movies home. We love the movie section. They have a decent new release section (for being a library and not a movie store) and they're free. Go to the library during the day and then plan a special family movie night for the evening. Have the kids draw and cut out movie tickets for each person, pop some popcorn, turn the lights down, snuggle on the couch and enjoy the show.

parks and rec events - This summer our parks and rec department has been hosting movies in the park, family swim nights, a kite day, and many other free events just for family fun. Check out your local parks and rec. There may be fun at your fingertips just waiting for you.

game nights- when the weather isn't permitting for outside activities, game nights are always fun. We like board games, relay races, duck duck goose (the girls will even play with just the two of them), and then there are always made up games. M will make things up for us to do. Spin around three times, jump up and down, and then lay down. Be creative!!! It can even be as simple as pulling out a few toys that haven't been played with in a while.

things in your community - Before kids, I didn't give much thought to things going on in our community. But now I look for things all the time. A few weeks back there was a community open house. They brought in a bounce house, had a farmer's market, petting zoo, and fire trucks on display. The kids loved it. In out little town, there are also concerts in the park and a few yearly events that take place, sidewalk sales, peach festival and victorian days that offer free entertainment for families.

When you just can't seem to find anything to do, go to the "family fun" website...familyfun.com We get the Family Fun magazine which is FULL of great fun and free or almost free activities to do with your family. When we went to visit Chris's family recently, we had a three hour ride each way, so I spent the trip going through each magazine and tearing out pages of ideas I would use. It's two fold: I get a few pages of fun and then toss (or recycle) the rest of the magazine, decluttering my desk at the same time.

Camp out- one we have not done yet, but am looking forward too. We have been searching craigslist and garage sales for a cheap used tent, so the kids can "camp" in the backyard with daddy. Flashlight games, star gazing, making smores...the ideas are endless.

Other not quite free, but worth the cost (in my opinion)

Zoo- I listed it up there as an expense, but if you can budget $70 for a zoo pass, you can take your family year round for that price including parking. So while its not completely free, it is a great value for a family. It was going to cost us $50 just to go once, with parking and admission for 5 of us. Now we can go anytime we want. If the kids get tired and we have only been there an hour, that's okay we can come another day or ten other days for that matter :)

Park with Dinner - It's Friday night and dinner isn't made and your feeling like getting out. Grab dinner and head to a park. One of our favorites is Rochester park. There are two different play structures, ducks to feed, rivers to splash in, and trails to walk on. The kids have loved it. They get to meet other kids, play, and make family memories all at the same time. Of course packing dinner is always a more ecomical option, but there are just days where makingn dinner just doesn't happen :) We have done both this summer.

When the weather is not good a trip to a local fast food play place is fun. Sometimes, we eat before we go, and then I will just buy the kids a drink when we get there.

So there you have it......... some of my ideas........what are your family favorite free activities?

Four Generations

2010-08-11T13:07:00.011-04:00

This past weekend, we visited Chris's grandparents. We were surrouded by lakes, and we were able to take advantage of some great time on the water. The kids had their first wave-runner, paddle-boat, and pontoon boat rides.

More importantly, I loved seeing four generations of family together. Our kids are so blessed to have three sets of great grandparents still living. Here are a few shots of the kids with their great grandparents. These first two are from P's b-day.

My dad's parents My mom's mom

Chris's mom's parents

And a few other shots of the water fun. Chris's Uncle John took us out on his pontoon boat. His dog, Gunner came along too. P loved laying on, smacking, petting, and getting kisses from the puppy.

E wasn't sure at first but with a little convincing, she enjoyed the ride.

M loved it from the start and wanted to go faster the whole time.

Vacation 2010

2010-08-02T22:40:00.024-04:00

Week before last we spent a week in Port Austin with my family. My parents generously rented a cabin for them, their kids, and their grand kids; 13 of us to be exact; 7 adults and 6 kids under six. We had a blast. My brother went back to work for a few days, but the rest of us were there for the week. We spent our days walking on the beach, playing in the water, eating ice cream, going for bike rides, laughing, playing board games and the Wii, and just enjoying each others company. This was our first year doing this and after this week, I am sure we will make this a tradition in the years ahead. I feel so honored and privileged that we could spend a week with my siblings and parents and enjoy every second of it. The kids loved being together. Eva and my niece Sydney (who are 6 months apart) did EVERYTHING together, from going potty to playing in the sand. It was adorable to watch.

The Whole Gang

Our Family

We ventured in to Pigeon for the farmer's festival one morning...We fed animals, went for a train ride, decorated cupcakes, took pony rides, and the girls got their nails painted all for free. It was a great time.

Beach fun....We had a private section of beach out in front of our cabin. Hours were spent on the beach and many treasures were found and built.

Cousins

Our beautiful Eva

Where it all began...Thanks mom and dad for an incredible time. You are truly a blessing.

My parents and all the kids....morning snuggles with Nana

A daddy and his kids

Our clothes line looked like this most of the time

Going out for a before bed walk on the beach in our jammies

and getting ready to ride. Three bike trailers to hold six kids. :)

I have hundreds more pictures...but you get the idea.
Hope your family is making many beautiful memories this summer too.

Big Milestones

2010-07-17T07:51:00.003-04:00

We have seen big changes in Parker this last month. He turned a year and decided to show off some big boy skills. He has decided (on two occasions now) that feeding himself with a spoon is much better than waiting for me to feed him. So yesterday, I let him and shot this little video of it. We haven't done that much practicing, but about a week ago, he literally refused to let me feed him his dinner, and then did it again today. I am all for independence, but the independence vs. messy factor is a hard battle for me right now :)

4th of July weekend he took 5-8 steps several times. We haven't seen much walking since. until yesterday. After his afternoon nap, he decided walking is for him, and every time I turned around he was walking towards me instead of crawling. After capturing many spills on camera, I got this little venture down the hallway (a little dark), showing off for daddy last night. He walked almost as much as he crawled yesterday. He will be on the go, go, go now. I do a double take when I see him come walking toward me. It just looks foreign still. The girls clap, cheer and shout every time he just gets up and walks to them.

He has also decided to grow teeth. His first two teeth have come through the surface in the last two weeks. He now has his two eye teeth coming in. Yes you read it right, not his bottom or top middle teeth... his eye teeth.

He had his one year check and shots a few weeks back. One more set of shots, then he his good until he his four. He weighed in at 21.6 pounds and was 30 inches long. He fell into the 25% for height and weight. He matches his sister Melia, who is also in the 25% for height and weight. Eva is in the 50% for both.

Goats, Veggies, and Fruit

2010-07-13T13:40:00.007-04:00

Last night we went for a bike ride and stopped at "Frontier town" a few miles from our house. In this town they have four goats. All of the kiddos LOVED feeding them. P was having a conversation with them, in babble of course, while M and E scoured the ground for every leaf, twig, and branch they could find to feed them.

(Sorry for the quality, it was on my cell phone)

E kept saying, "Come here little fella" She cracks me up.

We have been sticking close to home this past week and finding little things like this to do with the kids to get out of the house. We have been battling what appears to be the flu. It has gone through all of us, but M can's seem to get rid of it. It landed us in the ER for fluids last week, and we went back to the doc this afternoon. He referred us to a Ped. GI doc. We, amazingly, have an appt. for tomorrow afternoon. It usually takes months to get in as a new patient, but our doc convinced them it was a priority. It has been going on for almost three weeks now. Poor Girl. A few hours of the day she seems sick, and then the rest of the day she acts as if nothing is wrong. There are many more details, but I just don't have the energy right now to spell it all out. Any prayers would be greatly appreciated :)

On Sunday we picked our first two Zucchini and today we picked two more. We gave one to our sweet neighbor who is going to water our garden when we are on vacation next week. The garden is out of control. We have about 40 baby green tomatoes growing (and a ton more blooms), 5 little cucumbers with about 30 more blooms, and 3 more zucchini growing as I type, with about 35-40 more blooms. I better start looking up what to do with zucchini :) It is a highlight in my day, when the kids and I go out to see if anything new has grown. Before the week is out we will most likely have 3 or 4 more zucchini ready to be picked and our first two green peppers.

Last weekend we ventured out and picked 11 lbs of strawberries. Many were consumed, but the rest were turned into 10 jars of yummy jam. This was my first time canning, and it has me pumped for future canning endeavors. I plan to can tomato sauce with all our tomatoes. I would also like to can peaches and pears in the fall.

Garden Update

2010-07-01T10:41:00.007-04:00

Our Garden has exploded in the last few weeks. It has been so great watching everything grow and change right before our eyes. I can't wait to start eating it. :)

Our TWO zucchini plants are overtaking everything.

Look at the size of that leaf.

There are about 6-8 blooms on each plant so it looks like we are going to have ALOT of zucchini.

We have three pepper plants with 4-5 baby peppers on each right now. Our tomato plants are growing out of their cages and our cucumber is crawling everywhere.

Our lettuce is almost ready to give us our first salad.

Chris built another box this week with the left over wood, and I transplanted our beans. The zucchini was taking all their sun.

The beans are blooming, so we should see beans forming soon.

The girls are as excited as we are about the garden. They go out and check it every morning after breakfast. We'll see how excited they are when they have to eat the fruits of our labor :). We also have cilantro and onions...Can't wait to make fresh salsa right from the garden.

When...

2010-06-29T07:35:00.004-04:00

WHEN

DID

MY BABY

BOY

BECOME

TODDLER??

I love my dad because...

2010-06-19T19:35:00.023-04:00

Father's Day Fun fact: Many congressional resolutions proclaiming a national Father’s Day in the United States were introduced through the years. President Lyndon B. Johnson recognized the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day with a presidential proclamation in 1966, but the holiday was not really made permanent until 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed a presidential resolution that made the third Sunday in June officially Father’s Day in the United States.

As I think about Father's day tomorrow, it has so many dimensions. I think about Chris and the dad he is to our children. I reflect on my dad; who he is to me and who he is as Poppy to our children and I think about our Heavenly Father, and all the riches that come from Him. It is overwhelming and brings tears to think about the love, compassion, and blessing that comes from each of these Father's.

For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17

There is almost nothing better than watching Chris with the kids. He would lay down his life for them. He is a Godly example to them and teaches them the things of the Lord. He cherishes the time that he can snuggle in their beds with them, praying over them before bed.

He is not too much of a man to sit at a kid-sized picnic table adorned with flowers and pink dishes to have a tea party with his girls.

He even drinks out of the tiny pink tea cups with them.

He takes twice as long to mow the lawn so the girls can walk next to him and mow with their lawn mowers.

He will brave the cold to go out and roll in the snow with them, or pull them up a sledding hill, time and time again for 10 seconds of fun and huge smiles. He will get up early on a Saturday morning to play in their room with them while mommy sleeps. His face lights up when they come running down the hall to crawl into to bed for a morning snuggle. They come running in asking, "daddy do you have a perfect spot for me?" (that's the spot snuggled right next to daddy under the blankets).

It makes a long day at work worth it, when he sees the girl's smiling faces waiting on the porch when he pulls into the driveway.

He loves that Parker has become such a daddy's boy and leaps out of my arms when Chris walks in the room. Parker squeals with delight when he hears Chris walk in the back door, after work.

Earlier today I asked the girls why they loved their dad, these were their responses...

"He does the best things for me and he loves me and he gives me best hugs and makes the best tents and I love him. That's why I love him"
~Melia

"I love daddy when I go with him."
~Eva

I love you Chris and could not ask for a better dad for our children. I count it a privilege to train them up with you.

When we have nothing else, we have our relationships. This has been pressed upon my heart with extra force this week. One week ago, we stood next to our Pastor and his family in front of a pile of rubble that they used to call home. In just minutes their house burned to the ground and they lost EVERYTHING. Everything but each other. I have never seen devastation like this. Yet, in the midst of the devastation, they Praised the Lord, to have relationships still. Is their anything more important? It has changed me. Out of the ashes, will come beauty and new life. As they begin to put their lives back together, a beautiful life will emerge.

I am so thankful for each and everyday that I wake up with air in my lungs. I am so thankful to watch Chris father our children. I am so thankful that I serve an amazing God, that all good things come from. I am so thankful to have a dad that would drop anything to serve his kids. His patience and love has made me who I am today.

I love you Chris...I love you Dad...and I love our Heavenly Father. Happy Father's day!!!

Parker Turns 1

2010-06-09T21:08:00.012-04:00

Before we begin the birthday post, here are shots of the birthday boys beautiful sisters...

It was a gorgeous day for a backyard barbecue, cake, ice cream, swimming, laughing, and playing. It was filled with family and friends.

An awesome cloth "Happy Birthday Parker" banner made by Auntie B. It stretched around the kitchen the week before his birthday and along the deck on the day of the party.

A cake waiting for our sweet boy and owl cupcakes to be eaten by the guests.

Opening presents with daddy was first on the agenda

The wardrobe for the day

and a crown fit for a prince

Best Buds waiting for the festivities to begin

WARNING: Cake Demolition in progress

We ended the afternoon with some pool time...

Check out the nose scrunch on these boys...soooo cute.

A letter to our sweet boy coming soon, but for now I leave you with one final picture...

Dylan

2010-06-03T08:41:00.006-04:00

You may have noticed this button on my side bar....(I just changed the pic).

As many of you know, I am a teacher for children birth to three with special needs. Dylan is a little boy in my class this year. In his three little years of life, he has faced much adversity. Just three days after coming into this world, he had open heart surgery to fix a congenital heart defect he was born with. He has had two more surgeries since then (June 08 and Feb 10). In 08 a pacemaker was put in to control one side of his heart. In Feb, the pacemaker was modified to control both sides of the heart. After two months his heart was failing again, and in end of April he was put in hospital again. Doctors are now saying that a heart transplant is his only option. He spent the first weeks in the hospital in the PICU on a ventilator. I am very happy to report that he is now on a general floor and doing well. He is on very high doses of medication to control his heart, while he waits, as his mother says, "for his second chance at life." The local paper in Oxford did an article on Dylan. You can read it by clicking the link below.

http://www.oxfordleader.com/Articles-i-2010-05-26-236012.113121-sub_Oxford_boy_awaits_heart_transplant.html#123s

After some time searching the Internet, I was able to create a button and code with his picture. If you feel inclined, you can grab this button to add to your blog. If not, can I ask that you please pray for this little boy and his family. This is a very trying time for them. Dylan lives with his mom, dad, and twin brother. He is such a precious little boy.

Randomness **Updated

2010-05-27T21:38:00.008-04:00

This week it has felt like summer, and I couldn't love it more. It has given me a little taste of what is to come in just three weeks when school is out...can't wait. The girls braved the pool again this week, and I even got in with them today. With all this heat, the water is warming up quick. They are loving pool time. I don't think our pool has ever been open this early in May, (usually it's a Memorial Day project) but, I sure am glad it is. We opened it early to give us some extra time to get it ready for Parker's b-day party next week. Speaking of that, Can you believe that in a week, he will be 1 year old. Crazy!!! He is turning into a little boy right before my eyes. So many changes are taking place these days.

Parker has only splashed his feet in the pool, as he has been napping when we swim. This day he was in the shade in his excersaucer. Look at those red cheeks.

******UPDATE******

Parker went in the pool tonight with his daddy, sisters, and neighbor boy. He loved every second of it. He tried to jump right out of Chris's arms to try and swim.

Biking:

On Tuesday, I braved the bike trail with all three kids. Eva and Parker were in the trailer and Melia was in a bike seat. They did AWESOME. I biked 9 miles in just under an hour. It felt great to get out and exercise, and do it with the kids. I went out again today, Eva was in the bike seat and Melia and Parker were in the trailer. Parker has taken his morning nap during the ride both days. Carting 105 pounds (between kids and trailer) is no easy task, but it is great training.

Work:

The end of the school year is always a busy time. This year is no different. I am counting down the days. We are moving to a new building next year, so that means packing my classroom on top of everything else. At least, I'll be organized in the fall right!!! With all this nice weather, getting my school work done in the evenings is more of a chore.

Garden:

We finally got our plants in the ground this week. Instead of buying pots (which were pricier than I thought), we decided to make a box garden. Chris spent Monday night engineering an incredible garden. It is surrounded with chicken wire to keep the animals out. We have a lot of deer and bunnies in our yards.

He even made a door at the end so we could get in and out, when we are ready to reap our harvest. We planted green beans, peas, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, zucchini, onion, and peppers. We started some in the house a month ago. We had three bean plants that looked great, but one of them did not make the transition very well. I guess we just wait and see what happens. Chris made watering really easy for me. He hooked up a hose on the deck, so I just have to walk out the back door, turn the nozzel on, lean over the deck and water. It takes less than a min. I love it.

A little bit about a lot

2010-05-20T13:18:00.008-04:00

Adventures from this week...

Pool:

We opened the pool this week. It was pretty dirty and green, but is quickly on it's way to sparkling blue, just in time for summer like weather. The girls splashed their feet in the frigid water today!!!

Birthday:
This week I was able to get Parker's b-day crown and shirt for his big day done. I have been looking at felt crowns on Etsy, ebay, etc. for the last couple months. I found a pattern and for about 1.50 in felt created his shirt and crown. I love the way it turned out and it was simple and fun to make. Melia is requesting one for her dress-up box now :) Here's a sneak preview.

(its a little blurry, but it was taken with my phone)

Restoring hope

This week at the park, on two occasions, Melia had a great time meeting and playing with new friends. Yesterday, a mom went up to her and introduced her daughter to Melia. I went and told the mom how thankful I was that she done that, and shared a little of the story from last week. The dad recognized me from dropping M off at school, his daughter is in the class next door to M's. They also live on the street behind our neighbors (across the street from us). A quick walk through a backyard and the girls can play together again. We had great conversation, exchanged numbers, and made a new friend. Melia could not have been more excited.

Biking:

We've been out biking a few times in the last couple weeks, as we are already thinking of the big race coming in November!! Last night turned into quite the adventure. We decided to try a new tactic. We would put the kids in their jammies and go out around 7:30. They could enjoy the ride and then hopefully fall asleep on the way and we could get a nice ride in. We're two miles from home, when E and P start drifting off to sleep and then we spot this in the middle of the trail...

Chris, the cat lover, jumps off his bike to find five baby kittens, nestled in the weeds just off the trail. He pick one up, and this little, (about 5-6 week old kitten) chomps down on his finger. It is spitting, hissing, and meowing in protest. He puts it down and grabs the above kitten. After a few mins, he calms down. We call some friends of ours to help come and rescue them. In the meantime, the other four kittens have scattered. We take the kids out of the trailer (in their jammies mind you) and put the kitty in to keep it from darting away. It is now getting dark, the kids are running and crawling around the trail in their jammies, and we can't find any of the other kittens. Our friend comes and takes the kitty home and on our way back, home stop to see the kitty one last time. By this time, Melia has named it Abigail and can't believe it is not coming home with us. It is now close to 10, none of the kids are sleeping, and our 13 mile ride has taken way longer than planned...but we made a memory and rescued a kitty.

Preschool:

Today was M's last day of preschool. It is so hard to believe that this time next year she will be getting ready for kindergarten. Our baby girl is growing up.

So there it is...a little info about a lot of things. Off to enjoy the rest of the day outside with the kids.

Rejection or Love

2010-05-14T14:33:00.004-04:00

Visualize this...

We pull into a parking lot full of minivans and SUV's at our local playground, Melia exclaims, "there are lots of kids here!". She was correct, kids were on every swing and every part of the play structure. We walk down the path and she runs off ahead to join in the flurry of fun. Off to the side sit 5 moms with strollers, chairs, coolers, water bottles, diaper bags, lunch bags...get the picture...they were camped out and going to be there a while. Between the 5 moms, there were, yes count them, 15 kids. Being the middle of the afternoon they all had to be 6 (kindergarten age) and under, since school was in session. The youngest looked to be about 18 months and the boy:girl ratio was pretty even.

Eva runs to the swings (something she screamed in terror from just a few short weeks ago) which she now loves. Parker is just chillin by the slide and Melia makes her first attempt to make new friends.

With a frown across her face, head bowed, and shoulders slumped, she walked over to me and said, "mommy, they won't play with me." Her first attempt was with a group of boys, so I said why don't you go ask those girls if you can play them. With a new found confidence, off she went. She is out of earshot, but I see her say something to the them. The girls promptly put there arms around each others shoulders and form a circle excluding Melia. My heart was breaking for her. Again she walks over to me defeated. She plays on her own for a few minutes and then decides she will give it another attempt. She asks another little girl to play, who is playing alone, and again is turned down. This time it was probably due to shyness on the part of the little girl. - the whole time we were there this little one carried her baby and sucked her thumb not playing with anyone. She comes to me again and says, "Mommy why won't they play with me?"

I explained that all these kids know each other and probably play together often. That sometimes it's hard to make new friends. Some kids are shy etc. "I want to go home," she says. Not wanting her to face anymore rejection, I oblige and off we go. As we walk back to the car she says, "I want to play with Grace, remember her, she was wearing tights" (Grace was a little girl that she met a few weeks back at the park; they immediately ran off and played together with out a thought) (tights are a new found love of Melia's and the fact that she was wearing them must of made an impact :)

When we get in the car, she says, "that wasn't nice." Everything in me wants to yell out, your right, those kids weren't being nice. But I don't, I simply explain that when other kids are around and they want to play, that we need to show them love and be their friend. It feels good to have friends and be kind. She says, "yea, that didn't make me feel good." Again, I reiterated, how important it is for us to show love to everyone, no matter how someone looks, young or old, or shy or outgoing. It does not have to be complicated, we just have to be willing.

Everything in me wanted to protect her from the rejection, from the hurt she was feeling. Unfortunately, this is real life and things don't always go the way we think they should. All I can pray is that she learned a lesson today on how to treat others and show love, even when she may not want to. Thankfully kids are resilient, we are home and she is playing with Eva and Parker and extremely excited about it.

Not that I expected that I would be included and have this new found group of friends immediately, but not once did the other moms give me a glance, smile, or even a nod. I could, on a small level, relate with my sweet little girl today. My heart hurt for her.

I was reminded of something today. A nod, smile, eye contact, and/or a hello can make an impact on a persons day more than we may even realize. As adults it is sometimes hard for us to show love to those around us. Stress, burdens, and life seem to wear us down. Who wants to show love when we are wallowing in our own stuff.

I want to encourage you to stop and take a look around through out your day, be intentional and show the love of Christ to others. You may not ever know the impact you have, but I can guarantee you will be better for it. Live to Love today!!!!

11 Months

2010-05-12T22:04:00.008-04:00

In just a few short weeks we will be celebrating Parker's 1 year birthday. As I reflect on this past (almost) year, there are so many emotions and feelings stirring in my heart that I am unable to put them into words. I cannot describe the love that I have for this precious boy. He has changed me and made me a better mom.

A few short weeks ago he started crawling and he hasn't stopped moving since. He is crawling everywhere and pulling to stand on everything he can get a hand on...couch, toys, wall, stool, cupboards. He even started pulling up with one hand in the last few days. Once standing he is walking (slowly) around furniture. Will he take his first independent steps by his b-day??? We shall see.

Sleeping was a challenge for a few days, because his new found motor skills were way more fun to practice than going to sleep. I would lay him down and before I was out the door, he was standing at the end of his crib, calling for me. Needless to say, we had to lower his crib mattress. The novelty has worn off and he now stays laying down and drifts off to dreamland. Speaking of sleeping, he is napping twice a day still and sleeping 12 hours at night.

Another big milestone...Parker started drinking whole milk this month and LOVES it. He nurses morning and night and has milk in a sippy cup with lunch and dinner. He's drinking 8-10 oz. of milk a day.

Parker is finding his voice in this family. He has begun protesting when things aren't going his way. If his sisters are squeezing him a little too hard, getting in his space too much, or a toy isn't doing what he thinks it should, he yells so everyone knows it. He is saying mama and dada which just makes me weak in the knees. He is also saying "mo" for more as well as signing it.

Protesting and signing more at the same time

His new favorite past time is pulling the night light out of the wall. It is a little round light that fits perfectly in his little hands.

His growth is slowing down. He weighs 21 pounds. He can still fit into 9-12 month clothes but is wearing some 12-18 month clothes, since his summer wardrobe is this size.

Every time I look into those deep blue eyes, I see the love of our Creator. What a incredible gift He has given us. I love you sweet boy.

We Have A Crawler!!!

2010-04-25T19:50:00.004-04:00

The video is a little dark...but still cute!! It's a slow go on the wood floor, but he perseveres.

Signs of Spring...

2010-04-18T12:39:00.006-04:00

You know it's spring when....we are planting veggies with the girls...this is our first year starting seeds inside. At our previous house (prior to kids) we had a garden, but I bought starter plants. The girls enjoyed getting their hands dirty and planting the seeds this year. We have carrots, cucumbers, squash, zuchinni, peppers, onion, lettuce, green beans and peas. Now we wait and see what happens. If it is a bust, we will buy some starter plants and go that route. Either way, we had a fun time doing it. :)

the girls even have their own garden gloves

Soccer started yesterday... it was 40 and VERY windy, Hence the winter coats and mittens. Melia did great out on the field.

Play dates at the park...you know it's Michigan when these and the above pics were taken two days apart. Shorts, T's, and 82 one day and winter coats and gloves two days later.

And finally...

What signs of Spring have you stopped to notice lately?

10 Months

2010-04-09T11:09:00.010-04:00

2 months away from being 1 year old. Can't believe it. For Parker half of this month was spent battling RSV. Glad to report that he is back to complete health. He is sleeping through the night again and happy during the day. He is weighing 20 1/2 pounds. He lost a little bit of weight being sick, and is now working to gain it back. He has been at 20 pounds for the last two months. He is picking up new little noises and tricks every day. He is trying to imitate everything we do. If the girls are yelling and making noise he is yelling and making noise. He is waving, singing more, and clapping almost every second of the day. His laugh is contagous and make everyone around him smile. His eyes are as blue as the sky on a clear day. They draw people to him when we are walking through a store, that and his smile, which is still a challenge to capture in a picture.

I usually get a version of this serious look...

His cousin Sydney gave us her Leap Frog Activity Table and he LOVES it. He really enjoys standing to play and gets frustrated when he lets go and falls to the ground. He hasn't figured out that he is not stable enough to stand all by himself. :) He works really hard at pulling himself right back up to the table, sometimes accomplishing the goal, sometimes not. If the later happens, then yelling begins until someone comes to help him out. There is always a sister who is willing to stand him back up to the table. :)

It always amazes me how much he takes in and is learning. I love when we ask where someone is and he looks around the room to catch their gaze. He has a love for all things with buttons...cell phones, remotes, laptops etc. He still loves food too, except green beans, which have to be mixed with fruit to get them down. His diet is becoming more solid and less puree every day. He had a can of veggie soup this week and polished off a bread stick at dinner the other night with no problem. Graham crackers are still one of his favorites.

Or the occasional wood bench :)

He is still napping 2 times a day and sleeping 11-12 hours at night. When I lay him in his crib, his arm reaches out until he finds the corner of his blanket, he pulls it in close to his face, and off to dreamland he goes. I find this to be one of the most precious things I have ever seen. I enjoy just watching him as he drifts to sleep. He wakes up happy and will lay in his crib talking until we come and get him. Just love that boy.

Speaking of firsts...getting through the RSV required the first trip to the ER, first x-ray, and first IV. I will be fine if this is the frist and last time we have to experience these events.

He can't be any closer to crawling unless he was actually doing it. He is getting on all fours, rocking, and picking up hands as if to go forward, but has yet to move forward. Now backwards, he is doing that. He is also scooting on his bottom to get where he needs to go. I am sure it is only a matter of days before we will offcially have a crawler in the house. Three moving kids...busy, busy, busy :)

RSV

2010-03-30T13:41:00.004-04:00

On Thursday night Parker woke up in the middle of the night fussing. I was able to settle him down pretty quickly and he went back to sleep. Chris mentioned that he felt a little warm, but when he woke up in the morning, he felt okay and we went about our day. When I picked up the kids from Grandma's house on Friday morning, she mentioned that he was a little fussy and took a short morning nap. When we got home I took his temp and it was 102. I gave him Motrin and kept an eye on it. He had a rough night sleep Friday and by Saturday afternoon his fever was 104. I took him to an urgent care clinic by our house and he was diagnosed with an ear infection in one ear and fluid in the other. He was prescribed antibiotics and we went on our way. Saturday night was really rough. He was up from 1am-5am fussing and very uncomfortable. He was getting more and more congested and starting with a couch on top of everything else. I wanted to give him time on the antibiotics, so Sunday we just stayed home and tried to keep him comfortable and cool.

Monday, Chris stayed home with him in the morning and I took the afternoon off. When I got home he tried to nurse, which had been pretty unsuccessful because he was so congested. Eating proves diffucult when you have to breathe through your mouth. :) He had not eaten or drank much since Friday and I was concerned he was getting dehydrated. His temp was still high and he seemed to be getting worse instead of better. I called our ped. and he told me to bring him in. He checked him out and then I heard these words,

"I want you to take him to the ER for tests and IV fluids"

I immediately called Chris (who had only been at work a few hours), to tell him the news. He said, "I will meet you there, go now". So that is what I did. I called Teri to tell her the news and ask her to keep the girls, which she so graciously did. My mom came out later to take them home and get them ready for bed. We are blessed with the most amazing friends and family!!!

Our doc called the ER and told them we were on our way. They got us in right away. I was so impressed with all of the staff at Beaumont. They treated us so well. His temp was back up to 103 when we got there. He was so lethargic when we arrived. He had this little whimper cry when they did his IV and I knew he was not well. He was not even strong enough to let out a real cry. They did some blood work and got the IV started, and the wait began.

Here are some pics from our time in the ER. They are from my phone, so excuse the quality.

When we first arrived...his cheeks were so red.

Waiting to get a chest x-ray and drinking a bottle of pedialite. Starting to perk up

Check out my IV

Sweet boy

After a few hours the test results were back. He has RSV (Respitory Syncytial Virus). His chest x-ray came back great and blood work too. Unfortunately, with a virus there is not much we can do except wait for it to run it's course and treat the fever with Motrin and Tylenol. He is still on the antibiotic for the ear infection too.

I am very happy to report today that we had many small victories. Parker is still running a fever, but ate and nursed this morning better than he has in five days. He is beginning to play a little bit and even taking naps without screaming. He has been sleeping now for 1 hr and 15 min (his longest nap in five days). Yea for small victories and feeling better. He was a real trooper. Thanks to all those who prayed for our sweet boy. We praise the Lord that it was nothing more serious and that healing is ours. Love you sweet boy.

Remebering My Nephew...

2010-03-23T12:08:00.004-04:00

Seven years ago on March 31st our families lives were changed forever. My twin brother and his wife were pregnant with a sweet baby boy. He was the first baby to be born into the family. On a cold March day, the unthinkable happened. He was born 9 weeks early and went to be with Jesus, all in the same day. I will never forget that day. We got a call that Carly was going to the hospital for some tests and that they may deliver early. Both families sat waiting with anticipation for this sweet boy to be born, expecting that he would have to spend time in the NICU, but be fine. I will never forget how the next moments unfolded. We saw my brother walking down the hall with a tear soaked face and stricken with grief, as he broke the news that shortly after birth, David, their son went to be with Jesus. I remember falling to the floor and sitting on the ground overwhelmed with sadness. I am so thankful that our entire family could be together to support each other through this tragedy.

My sister-in-law and David's mom, Carly is doing something really special to honor David and continue his legacy on earth. It has been seven years since he went to be with Jesus, but he continues to live in our memories and hearts. You can read about the David Project below (copied from her blog), and you can read more from Carly and David's complete story HERE.

Dear Family and Friends,
As you all know, David’s birthday, March 31st, is quickly approaching. Believe it or not, our little boy would be seven this year. Since his death, I have always wanted to make “good” of his death and felt it was important to honor David’s memory by helping our community in some way.
I have pondered many ideas and never seemed to come up with one that would not require a huge undertaking or large sums of money. One day, a dear friend suggested I check out a blog of a mother who had lost her son and at that time she was doing something called The Brenham Project in her son’s honor. I loved how she chose to give back by donating items to the hospital where her child was during his time in the NICU. After our precious Emma’s surgery last year, I knew I wanted to do something that involved children of all ages during their stay in the hospital. I then realized that David’s life could touch so many more people. And that was when this idea was born!
I am asking that you participate in The David Project and donate one dollar for a great cause. I would like to buy books for children who are in hospital to help brighten up their stay by knowing someone cares about them and give them something to do. I will be buying the books from a company called Scholastic, which not only offers books for $1.00 but the project will also get bonus points for each dollar spent. That means with your dollar donation, you will be helping get FREE books for the project.
So, please participate in The David Project and donate one dollar to buy a book for a child in the hospital. The pediatric unit at St. Joseph Mercy-Oakland in Bloomfield is so excited to receive the books and the woman I talked to was so honored to be the recipient of such generosity. Every book will have a label inside telling the recipient that the book was donated lovingly in David’s honor by family and friends. You can mail your donations to 1820 Worcester, Oxford, Michigan 48371. Please join us as we honor David’s life by helping others. Thank you!!!

Play dates

2010-03-18T14:43:00.008-04:00

We've had two really fun play dates this week. Our friends Ms. Laura, Maddy, and Gabe came over today. We enjoyed the sunshine and fellowship. Eva had Maddy all to herself this morning while Melia was at preschool. She loved every min. of the attention. When M got home from school, we packed lunches and headed to the park for a picnic and playtime. Good bye time was filled with kisses, hugs, and I love you and even a few tears. It was a precious time.

Say Cheese...

Silly faces...

Park Fun

A girl helping her friend

The boys...born just a few days apart...

Gabe was very tired and shortly after this picture was snapped, he fell asleep in the swing.

You wont see Eva in any pictues on the swings..........swings make her nervous these days.

Parker, on the other hand, loves every second of it.

Over the weekend we got together with a long time friend from youth group/high school days. Ms. Heidi, Allison, Abby, and Jacob came over for a visit. It's been 5 or 6 years since we've seen each other. Her kids are the same ages as ours. We spent the day playing, jumping, laughing and talking.

Melia and Eva will go on for weeks about these play dates. "Remember when..." Thanks girls for the great play dates. Unfortunately, neither of these friends live right around the corner, so it is fun to reconnect when they are in town. Already looking forward to the next time. :)

9 Months Old

2010-03-10T22:04:00.007-05:00

Parker is 9 months old. 9...that sounds so old.

We headed to the park this week to enjoy the tease of Spring that we are getting. It was a great place to take some adorable shots of our little guy.

What a charmer...

He is wondering why in the world he is sitting in the tree...

Look at those eyes...beautiful. He is always getting complimented on them.

Parker tried many new foods this month. He had pureed taco chicken and spaghetti with ground turkey, which he seemed to enjoy (although he did gag a little). He loves mac n' cheese and has moved to Cheerios and graham crackers instead of puffs.

Yes he is eating a stick. He is putting everything in his mouth these days. From food to the littlest fuzz on the carpet, if he can pick it up he tries to put it in his mouth.

He still weighs 20 pounds; he has not grown much this month. He is turning into such a little man, with so much personality. He is always laughing, squealing, and babbling (with his favorite sound being mama, sorry daddy :). He has figured out how to turn on his mobile in his crib, is getting very close to getting into sitting position from laying flat on the floor, and rolling everywhere. He seems to have little interest in crawling, but will stand and play for short periods of time.

He is moving into crawling position more and more, but is not moving anywhere yet. He is still wearing some 6-9 month clothes, but all his 9-12 month clothes are out and being worn.

Snow Family

2010-03-04T09:34:00.006-05:00

Starting out with some sister love before we get to the Snow Family...love these shots

Daddy built them a snow fort/sledding hill in the front yard

here is the sledding hill

We have been taking advantage of every bit of snow we have gotten in the last few weeks. It feels so nice to get outside, even in the chilly weather. We had another snow day from school last week which was a nice surprise. Gotta love a unplanned jammie day.

Life has been busy these last few weeks and the blog has taken a backseat. Work is taking a lot of extra time lately, and we have a few little house projects going on, on top of regular life stuff. I have some things stirring in my heart that I want to get out, but that is not for today. Today you just get a few pics of our snow family. Although, we have been enjoying all this cold weather and snow, it is going to be in the mid 40's this weekend, and spring is just around the corner. I CANNOT wait to have some warmer weather again.

The kids

All of Us

Melia putting on some finishing touches

Daddy is VERY tall

Almost as tall as daddy in real life

Giveaway

2010-02-21T15:03:00.003-05:00

A really fun giveaway over at Heart Cries. Great products. I attended a home party and ordered a few things for myself. I actually am hosting a party in March. Head on over to her site and enter to win.

Jump Class

2010-02-15T11:47:00.006-05:00

All weekend Melia asked and asked and asked for us to take her to "Jump Class".

me.."What do you do at jump class?"

"Mom, we jump"

me.."Well, of course...who is at jump class"

"Makayla" (a little girl who Melia has officially met one time...she is the sister of a girl in her preschool class...who she sees now and then at pick-up and drop-off...she talks about her all the time, even telling us all the things that Makayla likes to do at her house)

Today after being asked ten times in 30 seconds if I could take her to jump class, I had a brainstorm and decided to make a car with the girls, so Melia could drive herself to jump class.

Here is what we did.

Personalized Initials License plate

This sporty convertible has two doors, four (paper-plate) wheels, and TWO moving steering wheels. It is even equipped with seat belts, but this model is not equipped with airbags or power windows :).

A little video of the work

And for a bonus...a few pics of Melia ready for her Valentine party at preschool

Valentines in hand...we made choc covered pretzel sticks with pink, red, and white

hearts on them (used a candy mold)

Strike a pose

8 Months

2010-02-12T16:00:00.005-05:00

Parker turned 8 months old last week. He is the light of our life (or one of them at least). He is growing and learning so much every day. He started imitating many of the things we do. He learned to give kisses on command this month (open mouth ones at that). He is making so many new nosies these days. He loves his hands and fingers (almost as much as food) and can't keep them out of his mouth. I am pretty sure he intentionally signed "eat" yesterday. We have been teaching him the signs for more, eat, please, and drink.

He is such a calm baby. People are always asking, "Does he ever cry?" Not very often is my answer. He is happy and content watching and observing all that goes on around him.

He weighed in at 20 pounds this month and is 28 3/4 inches long. He is still wearing mostly 6-9 month clothes, more and more 9-12 month clothes are being sprinkled in the mix. He loves to eat and would sit in his highchair forever if a supply of puffs were coming his way. He still sleeps 12 hours every night and takes two naps a day.

We just love this boy to pieces. He has braved the cold a few times this month, going out to play (or watch) his sisters play. He even went with us to the sledding hill yesterday and watched Melia come down the hill a few times.

Here are a few pictures of our handsome boy. (Getting him to look AND smile at the camera has proved difficult these days, but he is still cute as can be)

Eating puffs...does life get any better?

Blowing bubbles with his mouth...another favorite past time.

Standing (or leaning) on the basket (with some help to get there from his sister)

He got a new (craigslist find) walker this month. It took him about 3 mins to start cruising the kitchen. He has a runway of wood floor to move and groove.

Daddy Daughter Snow Day

2010-02-11T10:32:00.010-05:00

Melia has been such a daddy's girls the past few weeks. She has even been crying when he leaves in the morning. She told Chris this morning, "I want mommy to go to work and you stay home with me." Doesn't she know who gave birth to her :). Seriously, I love it. There is nothing more special than watching a dad with his daughter...it melts my heart. Yesterday with all the snow, Chris decided to take a snow day. Melia was thrilled. Here is how they spent the day.

After he dragged her all the way to the top of the hill, she boldy exclaimed, "You stay here, I want to go all by myself" and that's exactly what she did.

Snow to her knees in some spots

Snow castles and sledding

She LOVED being buried in the snow

big and little snow angels.

Melia and our neighbor boy sledding.

I had to drag her in from outside after about 3.5 HOURS (crazy)of playing, snow fights, sledding, building, and great quality time with her dad.

New Family Motto

2010-02-04T10:17:00.011-05:00

In the last few weeks Chris has adopted a new family motto: "We are going to miss this"...it was inspired by this post on a popular mom blog who has four children, four and under. Today after I took Melia to preschool, I was running a few errands and heard a song which rang true with this theme. Your Going to Miss This, by Trace Adkins (click on the song to hear it) I had heard the song before, and even talked about it with Chris, who teared up the first time he heard it.

I am going to miss...

a little person with cold feet crawling into bed with me at 2:30am and snuggling in close

hearing Eva's bunny jingle as she is walking down the dark hallway to our room in the middle of the night, because she needs to be snuggled

the middle of the night snuggles, when someone has a cough

the way that Parker's head fits in the crux of my neck

the temper tantrums because they want something and mom is saying no

the "I love yous" and the "your the bests" that Melia says in her most tender voice

asking Eva to repeat herself because all the words coming out of her mouth at one time sound like a jumbled mess

Eva's eye squinting, head turned, cheesy smile

Packing three young kids up in the middle of winter...getting them all in and out of the car 8 times in two hours to take Melia to preschool

having pj days in the middle of the week

swimming in the "hot pool" with the girls on a chilly winter nights

making Micky mouse pancakes for them on Saturday mornings

always wondering what Melia is getting into when she is quiet for a little too long (she is always trying to "make" stuff with whatever she can find and a roll of tape)

seeing Parker's face looking up at me in his crib when I go to get him in the morning now that he can finally roll over

giving him his passy in the middle of the night...even if it is the 10th time that night

or when there is glitter and glue from one end of the kitchen to the other

and most recently when your two year old picks up a piece of rock salt (to melt the snow/ice) off the floor and pops it in her mouth like its candy in front of ten other moms while picking up M from preschool, and then she loudly exclaims, "it good mommy" as it crunches in her teeth

open mouth kisses from Parker

seeing two little girls, hearing the creak of the backdoor knowing their dad and hero is home from work, run through the kitchen screaming his name to hug his leg

listening on the monitor as a dad talks/reads to his girls before bed

sitting back and watching the girls play together and working out their squabbles all on their own

watching Eva eagerly wait for Melia to come out of the preschool classroom door and wrap her arms around her, because 2 hours way from the one you look up to is just too long

The list could go on and on...when Chris and I are getting frustrated and or loosing patience with the kids we gently remind each other "we are going to miss this". Living in the moment is hard sometimes, when the chaos is unfolding before me, but taking a step back, thinking about how short this time will be, and taking advantage of every opportunity with them, brings it quickly back into perspective.

There may be dishes in the sink, weeks since the rug was vacuumed, mail piling up, a toothpaste filled sink in the bathroom, and laundry overflowing BUT I am NOT going to miss this.

The Last Few Weeks In Pictures

2010-01-22T14:58:00.008-05:00

A Winter Walk

A Day with Ty

I Spy...Whos's Chasing Who

Could he be any cuter?

More Winter Fun

Insecurities

2010-01-07T09:40:00.009-05:00

A word that has run through my brain more times than I can count in the last few weeks. I have only typed the first sentence and already tears are streaming down my face. I have had so many emotions running through me lately, I will be amazed if I can get them all out in semblance of sense.

Webster define Insecure in this way:
1 : not confident or sure
2 : not adequately guarded or sustained
3 : not firmly fastened or fixed
4 : not highly stable or well-adjusted
5 : deficient in assurance : beset by fear and anxiety

Who wants to live that way...certainly not me. I have seasons in my life in which I feel confident in all I do, and then have seasons which insecurities seem to consume me. I have been living in the latter off and on in the past few weeks. I find that it's usually all or nothing. I feel confident in most things or feel insecure in everything (even when it is not valid).

So what is it that I am feeling insecure in lately....
marriage, parenting, friendship, work, worshiping the Lord to name a few...

December has been a roller coaster, started off the month not so good, and then had an incredible time with Chris and the kids, family and friends through the holidays, and then it all came crashing down again last week.

It stems from a variety of areas in my life. I started a new job this year and have made some mistakes along the way. This was one area in my life that I have never had a problem being confident in (maybe too confident sometimes). Although this year it has not been so easy. Trying to juggle the wife, mother, worker, housekeeper, and friend and do them all well has proven difficult at times, and has left me questioning myself.

Parenting and marriage...Again while we have our "issues" (for lack of a better word) I usually feel confident in my parenting abilities and the strength of my marriage. I was sharing with a friend last night, that when I get in situations with others, I tend to over analyze everything and am constantly worried about what others think about my parenting abilities and the way my kids are acting (even in circles in which everyone is family and loves me). Some have questioned why we doing certain things or why our children act out. I tell myself, they don't know what it is like to raise three kids under the age of four, trying to make myself feel better. When all in all I really need to tell myself that I am doing the best job I know how, and doing what Chris and I feel is best for our family. Again, that does not mean there is no room for improvement or I do not want advice from others who have or are raising kids, it just means that I need/want to feel confident in the decisions we make for our family. I look at other families and other marriages and get caught up in questioning the way they do things, and wondering if I should do it that way to. I have come to realize that in most things in life there is not a definitive right or wrong...What is right for one may not be right for another.

Friendships...I have always struggled in this area. I have never been super outgoing or the life of the party. Making friends is something that was somewhat difficult for me as a child and even into adulthood. When in a friendship I have times that I question the relationship (am I really important to them, do they like me for who I am, are they really telling me the truth or just being nice and more to embarrassing and ridiculous to share)...even thinking about it as I type sounds ridiculous, but just trying to be real. I deeply value friendships, and sometimes I know I get to caught up in all the questions. My greatest friendship in my husband, Chris and some say that should be enough, but I find myself wanting for more. A connection with girlfriends that fills a different need than sometimes a husband can. I know I have those relationships, yet I still find myself questioning them at times. Silly isn't it...I have GREAT friends who lift me up and encourage me, yet I still question.

Expectations is another culprit in this well of insecurity. I live in the world of unrealistic expectations all to often. And when things don't go down how I thought, or someone does not do something I was hoping or thought they should, disappointment comes crashing in.

It all comes down to not always being confident in who I am and who the Lord has made ME to be. Easier said than done. I can put on a good face most of the time, but there is something freeing being able to write it out. While there is always room for growth and new wisdom in one's life, trying to live in the place of pleasing others and living up to how I think they want me to be is exhausting and only gets me to this place of insecurity. I am a work in progress, as we all are...I will continue to press in to our Heavenly Father and his affirmation, love, and grace.

Thanks for listening to the ramblings of my heart today...

After completeing this post I found this on another blog...love it

credit: Mother Thersea
People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, alterior motives;
be kind anyway.
If you are successful you will win some false friends and true enemies;
succeed anyway.
If you are honest people may cheat you;
be honest anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;
build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
You see, in the end, it is between you and God;
it was never between you and them anyway.

Two in One

2010-01-05T15:52:00.009-05:00

Today I am celebrating two of my kiddos in one post...

Parker turned 7 months old...time is flying by and I love seeing the changes, almost daily in him. He got shots last week and weighed in at 18lbs 13oz. and was 27 1/4 inches long, so he did not gain much in length and height this month. He is in the 50th percentile for weight and 75 percentile for height. He was a trooper with his shots, cried for seconds and was happy as can be the rest of the day...did not even need Motrin.

He is still wearing 6-9 month clothes and an occasional 12 month outfit. He is getting so tall that he moved up a height level on his excercauser. He still loves his bath and would stay in until the water is cold. During Christmas vacation we went to the Warren Community Center and he went "swimming" with his sisters. He was in the water for almost 1 1/2 hours and loved every second of it. I am very excited to get him into our pool this summer.

He is eating and sleeping like a champ. He eats about 10oz of cereal, fruits, and veggies a day and is nursing four times a day still. He's eating puffs and tries drinking from a sippy cup, although is not so found of water right now. He takes 2 - 2 hour naps and sleeps 12-13 hours at night. In the last couple weeks he has been sleeping until 8-8:30am. It was nice to sleep in a little. We were pretty busy through the holidays, so even the girls were sleeping in too.

He talks, babbles, squeals, and yells all the time these days. He has found his voice and loves to use it. Melia can make him laugh like no one else. She loves to play and hold him. Eva holds him and then quickly says, "too heavy". They smother him with kisses and love. He FINALLY rolled over this month. The first time was in his crib. He is sitting up for long periods of time, and loves playing with toys while sitting. It has opened a whole new world to him. He also started scooting on his back. When on the floor he pushes with his feet and scoots in all directions.

And finally, he has discovered his "manhood" this month. Leave his diaper off too long and his hand slowly creeps down to it. If you remember back to his ultrasound post, he was playing with it even then, in the womb...ALL BOY he is. It makes me (and him) laugh every time. I love you baby boy...Happy 7 months!!!

I love his hands and feet

I also want to celebrate Melia...

Last week Melia turned 4. Wow, I have a four year old.

She is the most amazing four year old I have ever met. (I am only a little bias :) She never ceases to amaze me with the things she comes up with. She is incredibly smart and tries to talk her way out of everything. She also has an incredible memory. She is learning bible verses, and after 2-3 nights of repeating them has usually committed them to memory.

She is already a great multi-takser. She can be doing something, but always knows what is going on around her and does not hesitate to jump in to help out and then go back to what she is doing. She is ALWAYS listening. Even while deep in play, she is taking in all conversations around her.

She is an independent, spunky, loving, intelligent, busy, hands-on learning, helpful, discerning, never-forgetting, precious girl. All qualities that will make an excellent leader some day. She started pre-school this year...she loves going and loves her teachers. She is always talking about her friends and tells me every detail of her day.

She is always amazing me...today when she went to her 4 year well-check she had to get three shots. The nurse asked me. "do you want her to sit with you so you can hold her arms and legs?" I said, "she should be okay just laying down, and I will hold her hand." Melia and I sang a song, while the nurse gave her two shots in one leg and one in the other. She never even flinched. She just looked and me, held my hands, and sang the song. The nurse was astounded. She said she has never given shots to someone her age that remained so calm and did not try to move away. By the third one she new what was coming, but continued to lay there like nothing was happening. What a brave and strong girl she is. I warned her a few times leading up to today, that she would be getting "pokes". We talked about it again this morning, and she said, "it will be okay, they are just baby pokes" She was excited to get a piece of candy and a prize from the nurse afterwards. She wieghed 35 1/2 pounds (35th percentile) and was 40 inches (55th percentile) tall today at her check-up.

Dear Melia, You came into this world quickly, and have been on the go ever since. I love you more and more every day, and can't imagine life without you. You bring me incredible joy. You are a great big sister always looking out for Eva and Parker. If Eva is sad, you try to make it better for her. You are compassionate and loving to others. I have no doubt that you will excel in anything you put your mind too. Your Aunt Bekah, once said that you will be a world changer and I have no doubt that is true. Your spunk and zeal for life will take you far. You love the Lord and love even more to worship him. I look forward to watching this passion for the things of Him grow. I love you baby girl...Happy 4th birthday. love, mommy

Cheesy Smile

Sister Love

Sleep over

How many blows will it take to blow them all out????

Melia wanted a Dora cake...It was made by my sister...isn't it awesome?

Her favorite past time these days

Home for the Holidays

2009-12-23T21:02:00.005-05:00

Hubby is gone, the kids are in bed early tonight and I sit in my living room as my three children are sleeping in the only bed, in the only home, with the only parents they have ever known. When I sat down to fold laundry, I scrolled through the guide channel to find something to make my monotonous task a little more fun. I happened upon a title that caught my attention, "The 11th Annual Home for the Holidays." As I read the words describing the program "Now in its 11th year, the special will feature Faith Hill and include performances by Shakira, Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood. Nia Vardolos and Jenna Elfman are among the celebrities who will present inspirational stories of extraordinary families formed through foster care adoption," my heart was compelled to watch.

Three minutes into the show tears were streaming down my face. Adoption is something that has become close to our hearts, as we stood along side our best friends Ben and Rebekah, as they adopted their sweet baby boy, Ty. The show was depicting just as the description says, inspirational stories of families brought together through foster care adoption. People who opened their home to children young and old, to raise them as their own. Children who do/did not have the same privilege as ours...sleeping in the same bed every night, attending the same school for a whole year, having parents to call their own.

My eyes and heart were glued to the TV watching lives that have been changed. Being a teacher, I have had foster children in and out of my classroom throughout the years. Even before having children of my own, my hearts desire, as their little faces crossed my path was to scoop them up and bring them home. This is all it was, a thought that was never acted upon. Watching our friends go through the adoption process, although it was not through foster care, has had an incredible impact on me. My heart was stirred again tonight. I believe that a day will come when this will not be a thought that is not acted upon, but a reality for our family. Chris and I had a conversation with Ben and Rebekah last month about this very thing. Although it is not something that I believe we will do today, tomorrow, or even a year from now, I believe in my heart it is for our family. It is something I will continue to seek the Lord about.

The presentation tonight was put on by the Dave Thomas (the founder of Wendy's) Foundation. He himself was adopted as a young boy. During the presentation a phone number and website was flashed across the bottom of the screen... davethomasfoundation.org. During a commercial, I went to the site and began reading facts and statistics of foster care adoption. The following statement pierced my heart...

"Nearly 40 percent of American adults, or 81.5 million people, have considered adopting a child, according to the National Adoption Attitudes Survey. If just one in 500 of these adults adopted, every waiting child in foster care would have a permanent family."

Am I one of the 40 percent? Are you?

I don't pretend to think it is an easy path, but I am ready to sacrifice. I am sure Chris will read this and think I have gone off the deep end (he did approve this before I posted), but together we will decide and seek the Lord on what He has for our family. Again, I am not saying it is something we are going to run out and do tomorrow. I am saying that it was a seed, that years ago, was planted in my heart as a faint idea, and through the years has grown into one that will one day, I believe, become a reality for our family.

My children are blessed to have a home for the holidays...there are thousands that don't. Adoption may not be for you, but can I challenge you in something? Go to the website, make yourself aware, and if nothing else pray for the children that are waiting for homes.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a JOY filled new year.

4 generations and toes

2009-12-21T21:24:00.005-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Christmas with Chris's moms family in Sturgis, MI. While there we were able to get a four generation picture. It was the end of a no nap day, so getting them all to look with smiles was near impossible, but this is a precious picture anyway.

Last month before my dads parents left for Florida, we took this shot of my grandma and her nine great grand kids.

And in other news...Parker LOVES his toes...

they can keep him occupied for hours during the day.

taking a break to look at mommy and wondering why the flash keep going off interrupting his toe time...could he be more precious...

back at it...with the feet

and yes he is wearing a disposable diaper today...we had extra from the trip :)

10 Years

2009-12-18T21:50:00.003-05:00

Ten years ago today, Chris and I were married in a large, beautiful church. The church that we attend was in a small building, so we had to find a church the could accommodate our guests. I remember it like it was yesterday. Chris, 23 and I, 22 stood in front of just under 200 people to exchange our vows. It was a beautiful ceremony, with so many special memories. My great-grandmother passed away just months before. She is my namesake (middle name) and her wedding band was passed from her to my mom and then to me. Engraved, on the inside of the band are her initials and year of marriage (1920), as well as my mom's and mine. Melia who carries on the middle name, will receive the ring on her wedding day. During the ceremony our parents joined us at the alter, and we gave them back our purity rings, a vow we made to them as well as each other when we were dating. We spent a few moments in worship to the Lord, shared of vows, and then took part in communion together. Our youth pastor and Chris's Uncle both officiated our special day. We have been together for sixteen years, as we dated for 6 years through high school and college years.

Two weekends ago, Chris and I were able to get away for the weekend to celebrate. I planned a trip to a mystery location that was revealed to Chris once we got to security at the airport. We had an incredible time. Just as with our wedding day, so many little details made the getaway so special. We spent so much time talking, reminiscing, and just enjoying each other. We spent time reflecting on the last ten years and all the accomplishments, a few disappointments, and highlights from each year. The first night we went to dinner, I wore the pearls that I wore on our wedding day, and that night I wore the same lingerie that I wore on your wedding night (I was shocked it still fit).

We went to Hilton Head Island. Neither of us had been there before and we both enjoy golf, so it seemed like a great spot. I wanted to be able to fly there quickly since it would be a quick trip. It was chilly and overcast when we arrived, but we made the best of our time. We rented a tandem bike and rode on the beach. We collected sand dollars....I've never seen so many. That night we had an incredible dinner. As I was getting ready for dinner Chris asked me if I wanted to where these...

WOW!!! These were a complete surprise, something I was secretly hoping to get one day, as they match the diamond in my ring. I was beaming with glee. Who needs other earrings when you have those. We walk in from dinner and as I am changing, Chris set up, his MP3 player and a small set of speakers (that I was unaware got packed) with the song that we danced to at our wedding and another one of our favorites from our dating years, and we stood in the middle of our hotel room and danced cheek to cheek (I had my tall shoes on :). What an incredible man I have. I love you Chris...you are the best...could not ask for a better, husband, father to our children, or friend. We have been together (dating and married time) half of my life. I look froward to many more incredible years with you. I love you more today than I did the day I walked down the aisle into your arms (did not know that was possible). Our love runs deep. When I think about marriage today, 10 years is a long time. I had someone say to me at 7 years, "Wow, that is a long time". I remember thinking, "really it does not seem that long". But, thinking about marriage in the eyes of the world, 7 years is a long time. It is relatively easy to become "unmarried" these days. A covenant that is incredibly sacred in our eyes, is not taken lightly, and is one that is entered into for a lifetime. I would not want to spend my life with anyone else. Two houses, three kids, 10 years...life could not get any better.

Look at how handsome my guy is...

Madly in love...

The view from our room...

Our room...

6 Months

2009-12-10T13:40:00.006-05:00

Parker turned 6 months old last week. I can't believe it. I feel like I write that every month, but I really can't get over the fact that he has been with us that long. He is a growing boy...that's for sure. He is weighing in at 18.5 pounds and 27 inches long. WOW. He is in 6-9 month clothes, but does fit in some 9-12 month already. He is laughing and smiling all the time. He is not rolling over yet, but he is sitting up all by himself. Can't figure that one out. We put the boppy behind him, as he still falls over when he gets to excited. He puts everything in his mouth these days, and as you can see from the last picture is drooling ALOT. He is sleeping 12 hours at night and takes two naps a day 11/2-2 hours each (unless it is at Ms. Teri's, then it's 20 min :). He is eating cereal with fruits and veggies 2 times a day. He is nursing four times a day. He has had carrots, avacado, apples, and pears. He will have green beans and mango this week. I also bought an eggplant, but not sure what to do with it yet...He loves his excersaucer and Chris got the Jhonny Jumper out this month and he loves it. He had a few fruit puffs the other night. He was not so sure about them, but did manage to eat them. His sisters love, love, love him...too much sometimes. Melia wants to hold and pick him up all the time. Looking forward to his first Christmas in a few weeks. Could not have asked for a better gift this year.

He is easy going and hardly ever cries. He loves to play, look around, and be sung too. He makes our life so much better. We love you baby boy...

oh and I almost forgot his newest trick is blowing raspberries with his lips...he thinks he is so funny when he does it...i am trying to get it on video, but he seems to stop every time I pull it out.

One Year Ago...

2009-11-17T09:42:00.004-05:00

One year ago (Nov 16,2008) I took these pics...

Aren't you glad we do not have snow yet!!! I am soaking up the sun filled days that we have had. Can you believe it was in the 60's this past weekend and one year ago, we were shoveling snow?????

Just 10 days after this first snow, on Nov 26th, 2008, we had enough snow to make this...

Weather in MI always keeps us guessing.

5 months

2009-11-12T14:09:00.008-05:00

Parker turned five months old last week. He is getting so big. He is weighing in at 17 lbs now. He experienced a lot of firsts this month. First weekend away from mom and dad. He stayed with his Nana and Poppy and his best bud Ty. He ended the weekend with a fever that got worse before it got better, resulting in his first anti-biotics on Tuesday. After the first dose, he was like a different kid...fever gone and happy as can be. He started cereal yesterday, as you can see in the video. He did great with it. He took his first shower with daddy, adn has had a few more since then. He went in the big boy swing at the park for the first time this month too. He is so close to rolling over, but just can't seem to get there yet. He is still sleeping great, two naps during the day and 10 hours at night. He is quickly growing out of 3-6 month clothes and pretty much wearing all 6-9 month.

This month we began preparing for the coming months of eating fruits and veggies, and began steaming, pureeing, and freezing them. We have about 1000 1oz. cubes of fruits and veggies, just waiting to be eaten.

I took advantage of the beautiful day and had a photo shoot outside (probably the last one until spring). Enjoy the cuteness...

Enjoying some tummy time with his buddy Ty

Met My Goal- UPDATED WITH VIDEO

2009-11-10T21:07:00.018-05:00

This weekend we participated in the ICEMAN bike race, and although it was called the NICEman all weekend, because we had temps in the 60's, it was one of the most grueling things I have ever done...short of giving birth. Last year Rebekah and I watched as our men participated...this year we decided to join in on the fun. I started training in mid-July, just 6 weeks after giving birth to Parker, with the goal to just finish the race without dying. As it got closer my goal was to finish in an hour. The times for our age category last year ranged from 48min - 1hr 25 min. I DID IT!!! I finished in 1 hr 1 min. I am more comfortable on my bike today than I was just four short months ago, but flying down hills and maneuvering sand, gravel, and trees still makes me nervous at times. I did come out of it with a few battle wounds when I hit a deep pile of sand and flew over my handlebars (I was not hurt). After a minute to re-gain composure, I was up and at it again to finish the race. I wish my fall could have been captured on film. It was a sight to see, I am sure. The girl behind me, after making sure I was okay, said, "it looked pretty". I'll take her word for it.

I love biking for many reasons, but most of all it is something that Chris and I can do together.

Many of the guys in our circle of friends enjoy this sport, but Rebekah and I are the only two girls brave enough to join them. Juggling being new moms (getting little sleep), going back to work, being the best wives ever :), Rebekah taking master's classes, and me having three kids under four AND training for this race was difficult at times, but we made it work. I am so glad we could push each other to new levels.

Chris and Ben were able to see us off at the starting line,
but then had to go to prepare for their own race.
Do you see us? We have our hands raised.

A few last words of encouragement as we wait for the count down.

We kept our eye on the prize...and crossed the finish line...Thanks to all of you who watched our kids, prayed for and encouraged us, and made it possible to accomplish this goal.

We watched as our men crossed the 19 mile marker...what an incredible task. The boys race was 28 miles. I am SO proud of Chris. He trained hard, juggling work, home, and fatherhood, and shaved 20 min off his time from last year. I was beaming watching him cross the finish line. I love you Chris!!!!

The victory pose.

We celebrated with a relaxing morning on the beach with B and B, before heading
back home to our families.

We also HUNG around

Only four more days!!!

2009-11-03T09:56:00.002-05:00

Did you see the ticker at the top of my blog...only FOUR more days until the Iceman bike race. I am getting more and more nervous as the race gets closer. Training has been on the decline in the last few weeks, due to it getting dark earlier and earlier. We have had to depend on the weekends for riding. All in all, I feel pretty ready, but nerves are on edge. The weather is supposed to be great...a slight chance of rain, but high of 52. I'll take fifties and rain over 30 and snowy hands down. With only a few more days, I am planning to get a ride in today and Thursday. I have to say that I was filled with doubt when I signed up for the race back in March (6 months pregnant), knowing that it would be mid-july before I could start training after giving birth to our third baby, and being really out of shape. I have to say that all these months later, I am very proud of where I am today. I am not in perfect shape, but confident that I will do well in the race. Managing, three kids, wife responsibilties, work, and training proved difficult some days...but here I am ready to embark on this challenge. Come back this weekend for race results :)

The Bear Went Over the Mountain

2009-10-26T21:54:00.004-04:00

Hope you enjoy this video as much as I do...this is one of M's favorite past times in the last couple weeks. She loves to sit by her CD player and sing her little heart out. This is one of her favorite songs these days!!!

Our baby boy is 4 months old

2009-10-05T21:48:00.007-04:00

Can you believe it...Parker is four months old today. I remember sitting in the hospital, pitocin running through my veins, waiting for labor to start, like it was yesterday. And now this precious boy is FOUR months old. He has changed so much in four months. Here are some highlights of the month.

He loves his excersaucer and bumbo seat
He laughs and responds to us all the time
He is sleeping 10-11 hours every night
He is napping three times a day, two long naps (1 1/2 - 2 hours) and one short nap (45 min) a day.
He still loves sitting in his swing and bouncy seat
He weighs 16 pounds now (I need to measure how long he is)
He goes for shots next week :(
He is wearing 3-6 month clothes, but quickly growing out of them
He is happy almost all the time
He is nursing 5 times a day (every 4 hours)
His head is much more stable now when being carried
He went on many bike rides this month strapped into his carseat which was strapped into one of our bike trailers. We would ride for about two hours and he never made a peep.
He has adjusted to taking a bottle while I am at work (he was not too fond of it the first few times)

He loves sucking on his hands
He loves when him mommy sings to him and watching football with daddy
I love him more than words can say.

BEWARE: MUCH CUTENESS AHEAD!!!!!

(this was one of my favorite photo shoots yet....love fall time)

LOVE those eyes!!!

What a sweet little face!!!

and for your viewing pleasure...three SHORT videos

Daddy making P laugh

Melia making P laugh

Peek-a-boo

two years ago...

2009-10-04T19:34:00.024-04:00

Two years ago Eva was born in an ambulance on the way to the hospital. Four EMT's, myself and Rebekah were in the ambulance as we raced down the highway...you can read the whole story HERE. Just a few days after her birth we visited the fire station to introduce them to Eva Kay (again). Her story even made the local paper. One year later, they held a small one year birthday party for her at the station. And just this weekend we went for another visit to show off our precious two year old baby girl. Here are some picts from the visits.

First Visit, 1 year later, two years later

Melia on the fire truck, 1 year Later, and M and E two years later

There is a stork on the back of the ambualnce that will be there for the life of the rig. Year one and year two...

BIG change, BIG week

2009-09-17T21:58:00.009-04:00

Last week was quite a week...

Melia started preschool...Chris got laid off...24 hours later had an interview set-up and got a job...Eva turned 2...Melia had her first soccer game.

Last Tuesday morning Melia was ready to go backpack in hand. She walked through the doors of her preschool, found her cubby, hung up her backpack, entered the room, found her name tag, and went off to play. All was good...so I thought. As I was getting ready to leave, two little girls started screaming, and I mean, plug your ears, breaking glass screaming. Melia looked at me, her smile turned to panic, her lip curled, and the tears started flowing down her face. Having two infants and a soon to be two-year old, with me, I gave her a hug, and told her I would see her soon. The teacher, who was sitting in front of the door, to prevent escapees, tried to calm her as I left. I put P, Ty, and Eva in the car, drove up to the curb and ran to the outside window, to check on her. She was standing in front of the door, finger in her mouth, sobbing. My heart was breaking. I got back in the car and drove home.

Four kids under four all packed up and ready to go...Ty is with us on Tuesdays!!!

Finding her cubby

and in she goes

9:30am, and Eva, who has been asking incessantly for Melia since leaving the school, is now starting to cry. She does not understand why her sister is gone, and wants her back immediately.

What a sad little sister...she ran back to the car when I told her it was time to go get "Mia"

I just get her calmed down and the phone rings. It's Chris calling from work to tell me that the sales group that he works in was eliminated and he no longer has a job. He had to go pack his desk and he would call me back in a little bit.

Already on the edge of tears, my heart breaking for my girls, I called Rebekah, and the tears started flowing uncontrollably. She listened to my sobs and offered words of encouragement. As reality set in I went from feeling very unsure to knowing in my heart we could trust in the Lord.

10:00am - Melia's teacher called to let me know she was doing great...it made my heart smile.

10:40- I pack up the kids, and head back to pick up Melia. She had a smile on her face, and although reminding me that she cried and wanted me to stay with her, she has a good time. Chris came home in the afernoon and spent hours on the phone and internet, updating his resume, and trying to make connections with people from Compuware (his previous company) and by the end of the day, he had an interview set up for the next morning.

As of Thursday afternoon, he had a job at Compuware again. Praise God for His provision. He starts tomorrow!!! We enjoyed having daddy home for a few extra days this week.

Thursday was a big day, not only is Chris employed again, but our Eva girl turned 2. We had a great family day. Melia had preschool again (and did great dropping off this time, she was a little nervous when the crying started again, but she put on her brave face and joined the fun), and then we spent the day at a local orchard. We picked apples, pears, squash, peppers, and green/yellow beans. My mom and niece joined us for our day of fun.

Picking Beans

Picking/eating apples

Lots of playing...

and kissing goats....

more kissing goats...

Chris's favorite animal...I can't tell you how many times he has asked if we can buy a billy goat.

Over the weekend Melia had her first soccer game. I think Chris was more excited than M to go pick out soccer shoes, shorts, shin guards, and socks. She looks so adorable decked out in all her gear.

#28 is the cutest girl on the field

We also celebrated Eva's 2nd b-day. I cannot believe that our baby girl is two years old. Two years ago, I delivered her in an ambulance with my best friend, Rebekah, by my side. You can read the whole story here. Next week we will go see the EMT's that delivered her. It is always a fun time.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!!!!

Just a cute pict of P...can't forget about him!!

Peach of a Ride

2009-09-13T20:58:00.004-04:00

The name of the ride we did today...Peach of a Ride. Chris and I along with the Pinchbacks, Corey, Spina, and the Riley's rode 26 miles today.

Where: dirt roads in Memphis, MI.
Why: for fun and training
Time: 2 1/2ish hours
For what: yummy peach cobbler at the end of the race

Pinchback and Rayner clan road together the whole way. The weather was BEAUTIFUL. I am very tired and my legs are sore, but I am feeling more and more confident that we will be able to accomplish the Iceman Slush Cup Race in November, in a respectable time. Truthfully, training has been a lot of fun. Who knew biking could be so fun? I love that it is something that Chris and I can do together, it's free, and it's great exercise. Riding with Chris or Rebekah, around town or at Stoney, it always proves to be a great time and a great work-out.

The Girls

Quotes of the week!!

2009-09-10T09:56:00.004-04:00

It has been a long time since I have posted Quotes of the week...but these one's from Melia were just to good not to pass along.

"Mommy, I tootied in my mouth" No honey that is called a burp

Last night she was looking at a frog and salamander book...

she asked, "what kind of frog is this?" pointing to a picture in the book

my response, "An Oak Frog"

"We need one of those to eat the oaks in our eggs" Took me a second to follow her train of thought, but she was meaning yolks...the part of a hard boiled egg she does not like. Love that girl...She can always make me laugh.

A little bit of everything...

2009-09-08T13:52:00.014-04:00

Where did August go??? Summer is over and fall is here. We had a great August. We had some great outings, a lot of bike riding, some work, a lot of laughing, not napping (M has decided she does not need a nap anymore), a little swimming, watching Ty one day a week, a night out to see the Wiggles, an afternoon at a fair, and a whole lot of fun.

Dancing at the Wiggles

P turned three months old this past weekend. He is growing so fast. He is now 15 pounds and almost 25 inches. He had his first set of shots. He was a little fussy in the afternoon, but after one dose of Motrin and he was a happy guy.

He is just starting to laugh, loves being on the floor, baby acne is gone, taking three naps a day, and eating five times (every four hours). He is picking his head and shoulders up off the floor during tummy time, his cheeks have filled out, his eyes have gotten even more blue, he is quickly growing out of 0-3 month clothes, and is awake for 2 - 21/2 hours at a time now. Just today, we got the excersaucer out and he loved it...staring and smiling at all the toys.

The adventures of Melia, Eva, Ty, and Parker

The girls LOVE feeding Ty

A few weeks back we went to the Armada Fair. The girls LOVED it. They got to pet animals, sit on tractors, and ride carnival rides.

How big does a tractor have to be for a 3 1/2 and 2 year old to fit in the tire? HUGE