hello 2014!

Cheers for a new year!
Cheers for 2013 and the trials we overcame. cheers for 2013 and the memories that will always be cherished.

I have plopped down in front of this computer about 16 times (or maybe more...who can remember?) to start one of my posts and without fail, something has come up every.single.time. I remembered that load of laundry that needed to be switched to the dryer before the clothes had a chance to wrinkle. One night the thought of needing to get all of our lunches prepped for the following week popped into my head and so up the stairs and to the kitchen I headed. And yet, even with neglecting yet another post, there are always jobs left undone and dirty toilets to be cleaned. Imagine that.

I fall crawl into bed almost every night thinking of words I want to share and memories I want to post, and then poof! There goes another 24 hrs.

So tonight as I sat down to eat my supper at 8:37pm I made a decision. I'm going to write. I'm going to write right now.

Where to start: Best memories of 2013? Lessons learned and hard times overcome over the last twelve months? Goals for the new year? Our 2013 Thanksgiving and Christmas memories? Fun crafts and decorations around our house during the holidays? Bible verses and lessons that have literally made my mouth drop because they have been that applicable to where I am in life right now? Or, maybe I could just start with....Now.

Keeping things simple...

1. It's cold here. And I don't mean 20 degrees cold. I mean -20's cold (with a windchill of  -50s cold). So cold that all Minnesota schools have been shut down for today and tomorrow.
2. I seriously tear up almost every day thinking about how fast my boys are growing up. Sometimes I will catch myself staring at them as I try and soak up every little detail so as not to blink and have them disappear.
3. I get overwhelmed almost day with my house and all the stuff...and the messes. Love the memories. Hate the messes. Working hard to simplify some things in 2014 (been on this mission and have been working towards simplifying our stuff since 2012. Sad isn't it?)
4. Started feeling the Baby move at the end of 17 weeks (just a few days later than I felt Cooper) but love that now I am feeling it move even while I'm working throughout my work days. It makes me so happy I find myself constantly smiling over it.
5. Experimenting with quite a few crockpot recipes these days and thankful as heck for that large cooking pot that saves me every single week.
6. Listening to "Pieces" by Meredith Andrews and "Just Say Jesus" by 7venth Time Down. Loving 98.5 and all it's goodness in tunes.
7. Reading "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young and literally inhaling every single passage multiple times a day.
8. Craving "alone time" to read, write and think creatively. It's been a long time...
9. Sooo loving our new sheets that Nana and Poppie got us for Christmas. I am literally sleeping 100 times better on them as I visit Dreamland.
10. Striving daily to not be anxious over anything. Did I mention this is literally a DAILY focus (thought upon all.throughout.the.day)

So thankful for this bit of quiet reflection before turning in for the evening. The dishes can wait yet another day.

Sometimes, a mama just needs a break...

It's Sunday afternoon.
March 17, 2013.
I have been home alone since late Friday afternoon (well, until today...not actually home much, but without husband AND kids. I am home alone until approximately 9:30am tomorrow morning.)
...the longest bout of alone time in my home for about a year and a half....or more.
I was supposed to still be in Texas with family (coming in a post this week), but needed to come back to work on a few things Friday evening and for a meeting yesterday...so I did. With that, I was blessed with "mommy time" today. heehe! I am quite certain the boys are fine without me. Although the evidence below certainly would not suggest that...

Random: I am listening to Blake Shelton's "Sure be Cool if You Did" and "Here's to the Good Times" by Florida Georgia Line on You Tube and watching "Flirting with Forty" that I drove too far to rent from a local Blockbuster (because it's the only video store within like a 20 mile radius besides Redbox next door, which only has the newer stuff).

I woke up at 9am this morning and read my Bible (Hosea actually...we are studying that in Sunday School). I then drank a big glass of water, threw on my baggy black workout pants, an ancient Old Navy tank and worked out to Billy Blanks PT 24/7. (the workout video that I have had since sometime last year and have only used a handful of times.) Afterwards, I then drove to my church during the middle of the 11:00 hour in blue jeans and a long-sleeve grey tshirt, parked at the front door, dashed inside praying everyone would be either in class or in the church service and headed straight for the cafe where I purchased not one, but two chai tea lattes for $2 total. The best chai tea lattes around and only a buck...and only available on Sunday's!! I was having withdrawals from them after missing church last week while we were in Texas and decided I couldn't stand it any longer. Much to my dismay, the cafe area had not cleared out at all but I stayed focused and headed straight for the counter anyway. You see, I am at church every Sunday. The kids and I rarely miss. I volunteer for both my kid's Sunday School classes. I am on Leadership for our Young Couple's class and I, like my daddy was, can't take 4 steps before I have to stop and talk to someone I know each week that I am there. So, I was a little concerned that I wouldn't make it to the counter without someone coming up to me to ask why I looked like I had just rolled out of bed without showering to come in the middle of the hour to grace them with my presence. I might have looked around nervously, had my brother not just called me a few minutes before I pulled into the church to congratulate me on my "vacation day." He was at the office and about to take a lunch break and decided to call and catch up. If anyone saw me, I wouldn't know. I made a beeline for the front door, Chai Lattes in hand and cell phone stuck to my ear, climbed in our Ford Explorer and pressed the gas pedal for home, all the while thanking God for my $1 chai tea lattes that would soon be bringing a big smile to my face...and for this day of rest for one.tired.mama.

Some might think I am a horrible person for skipping church today only to drive up in the middle of one the sermons and run to the cafe to grab a chai tea latte-- actually two lattes to be clear. Others might think it is weird. And well, for those of you who know me personally, you are probably laughing and saying, "Good for you!" ...at least that's what my friend Susie said when I called and asked her permission to skip this morning :)
(P.S. No worries if you are one of the parents whose child I have in my Sunday School class; we had a fabulous sub for you! I didn't leave your child hanging. And there are no plans in the near future of my missing anymore class time. ;))

I think as mom's we are so hard on ourselves day in and day out. I know I am. We think we have to be on top of everything all the time. I do anyway. And for the most part, thanks to a natural abundant amount of energy and an insufficient amount of sleep most nights, I feel like I can get most of my stuff done (never all...but a lot of it). Terra, I know your 30th birthday was back in January and I promise I have your card and happy right here on the 3rd shelf of my 5 tiered bookcase downstairs; it has actually been packaged up since before Christmas..since I was so on top of purchasing it ahead of time. Obviously, the distribution of the package to the post office has not gone as smoothly, but I promise it will get there one of these days. I will totally make it up to you when I am in G-town this summer. Mama Sam, your pictures that I told you would be at Walgreens last month will be there soon. I haven't forgotten. :) And for those of you who sent me an email or sent a message on facebook in the last several weeks and I haven't responded yet...well, that might take a little longer but I will get back to you one of these days. :) And for my clutter piles that I had hoped to go through this weekend that I haven't gotten around too, I am sure you will be there waiting patiently for me when time comes and I am in the mood to declutter. To the albums and years worth of pictures laid out on our guest room bed right now ready for creative time, you are in the back of my mind. I smile each time I think of you; however, apparantly today I needed to write and read instead. I look forward to our time together in the future.

Sometimes, a mama just needs a break.

You see, there has been a lot going on around here lately (by lately, I mean the last 12 months.) No more than many others out there have going on at any given time but still, a lot for us. Everyone goes through times in life where things are more routine and steady and then one will experience a steady stream of trials and tribulations, which in ways I am truly thankful for, because I know that during those times is when I grow the most. Growth in my faith, growth in my own maturity, growth in peace and in patience for the unknown. Our time of steadiness was back in 2009 and 2010. :) Since then, life has been a whirlwind and promises to be for a bit longer I suspect. One day, I will probably share more, but today I am not quite ready. I go back and forth on how much to share on this blog, knowing that anyone and everyone could open it up and see straight into my heart...straight into our lives. The good, the yucky, the fun and the not-so-fun. Ha! I should put a sign up at the top that says, "Enter at your own risk!"

I may have mentioned this before but this blog was started for 3 main reasons: 1. I like to write and take pictures (and document our day to day) 2. To share with our family and back-home friends who we usually only see a few times a year and 3. to serve as a partial scrapbook for this overbooked mama who will probably always be "behind" in the albums for her kids. With that being said, I am aware that several others (who I don't know personally) read my random ramblings, and I am often wary that my words will be taken the wrong way or at least the way they were not intended. It has been hard for me to update this past year, so when I am popping in, I try hard to post things that will reflect a more positive light; however, life is not all butterflys and warm, sunny moments. Matthew 5:14-16 tells us that “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

My prayer is that in spite of my shortcomings and whatever crazy things I post on here, that you will sense my true heart and where I stand in my faith. I am a sinner who has the most forgiving and loving Father and thankfully loves me in spite of my shortcomings every single day. I will go into more about my beliefs, but that is for another post on another day. ;)

For now, a few more random pictures that make me smile as I am thinking about my boys. I don't believe I ever posted these from last Fall, but I love them so much and thought they would be fun to share. These were taken by Debbie Britt, a sister of a friend of mine, who likes to play with photography on the side. I think she does a pretty amazing job...especially when you are trying to capture 2 very active little boys. Thank you Debbie!!

...and to stay true to the actual moment...

at 11:47 pm

• Sidewalk Prophets playing...
• My fingers itching to type, to write.
• Tired eyes from a long day forced open by my heart's desire to record s-o-m-e-t-h-i-n-g.
• Feeling overwhelmingly blessed.
• Thankful for trials that make us stronger and wiser.
• Thinking about a stream of posts that are drafted out that I really want to finish (several that have to do with the New Year and resolutions and such)
• Wondering if I have finally finished responding to the emails that I had fallen quite behind on...nope, remembered one more...
• Excited about the books sitting on my bedside table and how inviting it is to crawl underneath my cool sheets in the evening in my fuzzy socks, pajama pants and sweatshirt and dive into a couple of my good reads
• Realizing that this thing whole sleep thing with Cooper has GOT to be put to a halt or I will NEVER get anything done...morning, afternoon, evening and wee hours of morning...ahhh, Lord, show me wisdom in this area PLEASE!!
• Praying over peace in the unknown
• Wondering what we are going to have for supper the rest of the week and thankful for options. I am thinking spaghetti or lasagna for sure one night...Parker has also asked for omelets and Red Beans and Rice
• Not looking forward to somehow working in time to submit a bazillion applications over the next several weeks, when I am currently finding it a successful day if I get my one load of laundry and dishes done! Did I mention Cooper is not sleeping very much currently?
• Simplicity...all I can think about is simplicity and how I want, crave and need more simplicity. I think about it when I am driving, showering, going to sleep, writing. Yes, I will continue to work towards this in 2013.
• Missing hubby this month.
• Enjoying and thankful for my Lindt's Dark Chocolates this month.
• Remembering yesterday's wake up call at 6:35am when Cooper decided he wanted to take his diaper off and flush it down the potty to make it go bye bye. Hello Water All In Our Utility Room and Let's Take Everything Out so that the Room Can Dry!
• Thinking that if Cooper had not already gotten up 7 times since I started this post I would already be done with it. It's 12:06. I should be in the bed. Can I not even get a 15 min post completed? Totally not what I planned on posting today, but I just want to once again, write something. Writing relaxes me before bedtime. Part of the reason I am loving my One Day per Page Planner that sits of my bedside table.
• Thirsty. Wishing my green straw cup had not run out of water 40 minutes ago and wondering why I didn't get up to refill it right away.
• Hoping this phase of Poop & Parker (not going into details at this point) is a just that...a phase...short-lived!!!
• Realizing that I have unopened mail sitting on my kitchen counter right now. Sad! That never happens!
• Not wanting to believe that my now 5 year old is already signed up for Kindergarten for next Fall.
• Smiling as I think of our MOPS Leadership meeting last night and the Fellowship and quality time that we spent together as moms.
• Looking at the clutter piles growing on our computer desk and wanting to chunk it all just to have it nice and neat looking. Ha! I wish! Three weeks or so from now it will be gone, but you can believe I went through every stitch of scrap paper. You never know what treasures you might find! :)
• Ahh! I need to finish our Christmas thank you's!
• Since it is starting to turn into a to do list in my head, I am going to turn in for the night. My bedtime was hours again anyway and I have Mr. Cooper is not going to stay in his bed for good until he has mommy to sleep next to. :)
• Sidewalk Prophet turns off. I smile. Time to rest these weary eyes.

The Keeper of Joy and ramblings of our travels home

Today I was going to load my 1,210 pictures from and draft up a post about our fabulous 2 week stay down in Mississippi. Aaahh, it was wonderful getting to visit my home town and so many of my friends and family...so wonderful that the trip was extended at the last minute. ;)

Although I am thrilled to look through the multitude of photos taken over the last 14 day period, my mind is on something else, so I think I will write about that instead. Truly, I can't believe I am sitting here when my eyes are literally being forced to stay open at this point of the evening. It is cold downstairs, but my trusty little space heater is working quite nicely next to me right now. I keep pushing my glasses up onto my nose as if that is going to help keep my eyes open any longer. The tv is on with original intentional plans of propping my feet up on the couch to get lost in some pointless television show, but my fingers are itching to type. Pandora and YouTube are coming on with "Banner of Love" and "Before the Morning" as the tv is muted. I did try to load pics and blog while in MS, but had technical difficulties and was unable to load any pics to mom's computer. I can't write a post without a picture!?! Did I mention that it is cold here in Minnesota? I did just get back from Mississippi; it might take a few months for my body temperature to adjust. Maybe that's why I am wearing one of three robes tonight that I have had for more than a decade and have only worn a handful of times. ;)

On my mind tonight:
Today I was totally convicted by a discussion at our MOPS group early this morning. A mom of 4 girls and Bible study leader, Janna Northrup, came to speak to our group about Carving Out Time for God during the holidays. Much like myself, Janna has a love for words and everyday moments. To hear her speak, is like eating your favorite chocolate over good conversation with your best girlfriends (which we totally did!! Thank you for the Dove treats, Vanessa. I just finished off the last 2 that I snagged at the end of the meeting!!) Janna's words have been with me all day and I can't stop perusing the notes from today's session.

Here are some of the notes I quickly jotted down and smiled over:

• Have a passion to live intentionally!
• Invite God into our Everyday Lives
• Practice Love in your Home
• Carving out Time each day for quiet time will take determination and discipline. Now is the time to do it; this will teach your children the discipline of turning to God and seeking Him.
• Make your everyday mundane tasks a spiritual, memorable moment. (ie. vacuuming: sucking up all the yucky of your life, washing dishes: God washing away our sins every day)
• ...and the one that resonated with me most today...I am the Keeper of Joy in my Home.

Here's why I felt convicted of that last one. Yesterday, I flew back with the boys from Mississippi. The only time (and definately the LAST time) I did not travel with a stroller. Both boys did amazing in the Memphis airport and on the airplane. My focus was 110% on. Their airplane bag was packed and stocked with sweet and fun treats ready for playtime and creative time on the flight. We were complimented on behaviors and order by other passengers during our ride. However, everything turned sour when we got off the plane in Minne. First, Cooper did not want to get off the airplane; he wanted to watch the workers. Secondly, when I finally convinced him it was time to get off the plane to see daddy, he wanted to pull my bag (that was way too heavy for his little self. Fits started happening right and left.) Also, I was traveling with more baggage than usual. I think I have mentioned before that our family spoils us. Well, spoil us this trip they did. Suitcases were loaded down with Christmas gifts and "just because" treats. Admittedly, I was having a harder time managing all of the bags and kids (which is usually not an issue for me.)

So, here we were at gate G14 (or one of the G's) and my youngest son is about as pitiful as one little two year old could get...wanting to pull mama's bag but falling down (with the bag) from the weight of it. [insert fit of extra loud wailing on the floor right in front of the loading area where the gate agent stood waiting to board more than 150 people...since we were, of course, the last people off of the arriving flight.] At this point, I was not really that bothered by the sad scenerio. It wasn't until after Cooper squirmed off of my hips--while still screaming of course--and I had to carry him like a quarterback running with the precious ball across the field all the while dragging a couple of other players with him in the other hand, that I started to sweat a little. I actually had an airport employee come up to me and offer to flag down a cart to help me get to baggage claim. YES, Thank you. I patiently waited until a cart arrived, all the while thanking the girl for suggesting the service, then promptly loaded both boys and our luggage (the diaper bag, 2 carry-on suitcases, my purse, and a Christmas bag with short wooden handles) onto the airport vehicle. We had almost gotten into position and in go-mode when this rather large woman and her husband walk up and proceed to bless me out in front of more than 200 travelers and airport employees (the woman that is, not her highly embarrassed husband). Mouths dropped. The Caribou Coffee employees awkwardly stopped making coffee to watch the scenerio. This particular lady considered herself a handicap because of her size  and was quite upset that I was using the service to transport my children and our bags. I have to say I took the high road on this one. I am not sure if I was so shocked over the whole situation or if I just felt so sorry for her and what an unhappy person she was, but whichever it was, I simply let her have the cart. While she impatiently stood waiting for me to de-board myself, the kids and our bags from the cart, her husband with his head down, came and quietly thanked me and apologized. Not even a thank you from her. A few seconds later when she passed us by on the moving walkway, I couldn't help but notice she was sitting in the middle row (her husband on the back seat) chatting on her cell phone completely unaware of my crying child reaching for the passing cart that he was going to get to ride on but removed from because she was in a hurry and had a right to be on the carts and we did not. (P.S. For those of you wondering, those carts are not only for handicapped individuals but also "families in need of assistance.") Anyway, it was a long and not-so-fun trek to baggage claim, but make it we did!

Exhausted as I was, I think I did ok throughout the whole traveling process. Ok, that is, until I got home. I was done. I was spent. (Have I mentioned that the boys did not sleep well during the two weeks we were down South?) I did not want to think or do or anything. Clay was so excited to come pick his family up and get us home for a delicious grand supper that he had planned for us. Let's just keep it simple and say we had different ideas of what the boys and my needs were at that time (it did not involve a grand, late evening supper and me bathing the kids while dear hubby happily cleaned in the kitchen after the delicious and filling meal he had prepared). I had Heartnotes to prepare for the following MOPS day and wanted nothing more than to run downstairs--by myself--and crank out the session newsletter and go. to. bed. Our house was not so joyous during the late night hours just before the kids were in the bed. I was tired. I was past the point of tired. I needed alone time. Badly. I needed to sit down. I needed quiet...just for a few minutes even. That did not happen. at all. Therefore, a joyful atmosphere was forfeited for a bad attitude and frustration directed towards my husband for not giving me what I wanted and needed at the time.

"I am the Keeper of Joy in my Home"...well, not last night between the hours of 6pm-8pm. Guilty as charged.

Ever had days like that? I am beyond thankful for forgiveness and for God's unfailing love and forgiveness for me every single day. I am thankful for a loving husband who cares about his family and wants nothing more than to be with us and be a part of everything that we do. How lucky am I?! I am thankful for my awesomely incredible kids who truly did amazing during our travel time...with the exception of the arrival time in the MSP airport. I am thankful for my precious MOPS group and the friendships that have formed quickly this fall. I am thankful that my Heartnotes got done last night and were just how I wanted them to be. I am thankful for the 45 minutes that I got to sit and hear Janna speak her God-breathed words of wisdom to the moms in the room. I am thankful that I planned ahead and prepared meals in advance for the supper that I delivered tonight to a new mom (cause otherwise, she would have gotten a pizza delivered to her doorstep!). I am thankful for my family and friends who love me for who I am!!! I could go on and on and on, but I just looked at the time and gasped...I am going to hurt in the morning. I think we will be heading to the gym. The sweet tea and Thanksgiving leftovers are starting to take a toll on my body. ;)

One last picture...a picture of the Wave Pool Women (my MOPS table). Such inspiring women...I feel blessed to know each of you.

*Colossians 3:17*
 

while my boys are in Texas...

On Monday morning (in the wee hours) I dropped all three of my boys off at the airport so they could catch a flight to Texas. I watched them until they quickly disappeared in security, got back in the car and completely and totally lost it. I cried so hard that I missed my exit towards home and had to drive an extra 10 miles in the wrong direction because of the little detour.

I had to laugh at myself later because I have no idea where that came from. Since Cooper has been born (over a year ago) I have not been at the house by myself for more than a couple of hours...and even the times where I had an hour to two by myself was a rarity. I think I have gotten so used to having a chaotic household that I don't know quite what to do with myself when I am home alone. Well, at least for the first few hours anyway....  ;)

Clay, Cooper and Parker at the airport in Texas - November 2011

1st trip for Clay to take both boys on a trip by himself

The funny thing is that I am a very independent person; I always have been. Parker comes along and shocker...I'm thrown for a loop. It didn't take too long for me to work that out though. I wouldn't give anything for our precious boys and the "busyness" that they have brought to and continue to bring to our lives.

Fast-forward to Wednesday...I'm good. ;)
Time to start crossing off things from the bucket list.
#1 Enjoy a plate of strawberries

...chocolate covered. :)

No worries about me. I'm good. Boys are having a blast. I'm enjoying a few "date nights" with myself. It's great. ;)

Tonight I went to see "Breaking Dawn" at the movies. Now, exactly 3 weeks ago I would have scoffed at anyone who mentioned this film to me; my sister-in-laws have been trying to convince me to read the books and check out the movies for over a year now. Every time they mentioned it I would shake my head and respond, "A love story about vampires and werewolves? Yeah right." Almost 3 weeks ago, Twilight came on television. Now, I don't watch a lot of television but I decided to give the movie 10 minutes to check it out and see why so many people thought this was a "must-see." Within 7 minutes, I was shooing my husband and 3 year old away from the room. I was glued to the t.v. for the rest of evening and have been only slightly obsessed ever since. Monday evening, I went and checked out the first three videos in the saga and have played them over and over in the background every single night while I've been doing random things around the house after getting home from work. Aaaahhh. Love it. It's like a modern day Romeo and Juliet..sort of.

It just happen to work out that the 4th part of the saga was coming out in the theaters while my boys were out of town. Tonight, I think the guy at the ticket desk at Regal Cinemas thought I was crazy when he handed me my ticket and I looked at him and asked, "Is this for one person?" What happened to the little red single ticket stubs you used to get? Or the little bitty individual ticket stubs that 5 years ago just had the name of the title of the movie you were going to see? Tonight, I got this credit card sized (if not larger) ticket plus some other slip that I was to show to the attendant. Then I sat down right in the middle of the theater with my popcorn and coke and watched the previews for when the screen popped up to "silence your phone"... and then came the message.... "No texting allowed." That's when I realized how old I was getting.

I think it was at that point when my mind went back to my Jr High days. The movie theater experience in my hometown was a little different experience than this. Not in a bad way...just different. I couldn't help but smile as I sat there and had flashbacks of my Saturday evenings at the movie theater. Simple ticket stubs, sticky floors that literally stuck to your shoes, bouncy seats (due to age), theater building right next door to the Pizza Hut and McDonalds...and usually you knew 3/4 of the people in there. There was no pre-entertainment commercials...the lights would dim, the previews would come on and the movie would start. There was typically a 5-10 min silent period where one would enter, take their seats and nothing was playing on the screen...it was at this time all the jr highers and highschoolers would goof off and check the room to see who was there on this particular evening. Who was on a date with who, what group of girls were having a girls night...so fun thinking back on all of that.

Funny thing..about the time all of this was running through my head...when I was reminiscing about my youth, the preview for "Titanic" came on. Who knew it was coming back to theaters? I couldn't help it; I had to laugh because it was this movie that I went to see twice...and both times I was asked to leave because I was crying so hard. True story.

Some things never change. Within 15 minutes of Breaking Dawn starting, I had tissues in my hand and was sniffling...was it from the movie itself or the fact that I was having a girls night all to myself...who knows? Either way, it was fun. Ashee, please don't forget my books at Christmas. I have some reading to catch up on this December. :)

Time to head to bed. I have quite a few more things to cross of my bucket list before Sunday, so I'd better get my beauty sleep tonight. ;) I can't believe I've just stayed up this late...

ridiculously inspired

I originally saw this video on Liz's blog and her thoughts were mine exactly...ridiculously inspired.
Lately, I've been inspired and excited about every little thing (it seems like more so than usual but maybe not) :)

-Crazy inspired to clean and organize my entire household (basement especially!)
-Excitedly inspired to create healthy, simple and inexpensive meals each weeknight for my family.
-Inspired to read a variety of magazines and books that have been calling my name for some time.
-Every day inspired to smush my little Cooper's face with hugs and kissses and to grab Parker when he's not expecting it and loudly smooch on his little face and give him ginormous bear hugs!
-Determined and inspired to prepare each and every week for our Small Group's Love and Respect session...thereby strengthening my marriage and our family.
-Challenged and inspired to always provide a nurturing and loving home to my precious boys.
-Crazy inspired to capture and document our family's everyday moments.
-Ambitiously inspired to imperfectly perfect all that I do (seamless mornings with the boys from start to finish, leave work feeling as if I've performed at 110%...I would never expect any of these things to always be perfect, but I do love to try!!)
-Ridicuously inspired to travel, create, perform, document, LOVE, laugh, bake, organize, manage, speak, listen, photograph, teach, decorate, read, relax, study, learn and pray. I am daily inspired to be a better Daughter of Christ, wife, mother, sister, daughter, granddaughter, friend, employee, citizen of this blessed country. I am so very grateful for my life and the inspiring individuals and moments that surround me.

If you are not already ridiculously inspired by day to day living, watch this video...maybe it will spark a little muse! :)

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

A good cause, my growing boys, and other randomness...

The other day I ran across something that I would like to share. Please visit emmettsfight.com and watch the two brief videos. You will become more aware of the tiny batteries around your home and mine. By the end, your heart will ache for little Emmett, who is a living miracle; hopefully, you will also have a desire to spread this information to your friends and family too.

And on a completely different note (and also very trivial compared to the above mentioned) a few randoms in our life over the last several weeks...

We've recently purchased a new vehicle...we can now fit 8 in our vehicle instead of a squishy 5 (plenty of  room for future carseats...future being the key word there) ;)

I am addicted to Chai Tea...it's like my Christmas in a cup in the mornings....especially now that the temps have started dropping here. I told Clay the other night when we were laying in the bed that I wanted a milk steamer so I could make my own Chai Tea's lattes in the morning. He wasn't too crazy about that idea but I keep telling him that it would save us a LOT of money in the long run.We'll see if I get one from Santa this year. ;)

Since the end of September, I've shed more than a few tears as I've thought about my precious little boys growing up and getting so big. "Ole Mr. Time, please slow down. I've been having a little trouble keeping up lately."

I think part of my emotions started when Parker recently came home talking about big boy things like the "rad engine" he's going to have one day or when he first got in the car singing tunes from Justin Beiber that he overheard from an older kid at daycare. Then Cooper turned one. After that, there was no stopping the tears from their emotional mama. ;)

October 2011: Typical shot of Clay getting two boys ready and out the door

Between the boys growing up four times as fast as we'd like them to and work and life being slightly crazier busier than usual, we are grabbing onto every simple moment that we have together as a family at home. Some of our most memorable moments have been spent rolling around on the floor wrestling and laughing, going miles around the living room on our knees with airplanes and cars in tow, and squishing up together with boys in our laps as we read stories of pumpkins, apples and Autumn tales.

I am really looking forward to the next several weeks as we have very few organized plans outside the home...and that means more time for baking in the kitchen, playing random made-up games with my boys, more storytimes, more walks in the brisk outdoors and more grilling. It is during these times that my mind is most alive with inspiration and ideas, so I'm sure some additional creative projects will come as a result of all the playtime at home. :) I love this time of the year.

ramblings on a Saturday night

Hubby and I are about to work on our Bible Study for tomorrow night's Small Group...this session we're doing "Love Talk" by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrot. It seems to be a good one; and of course, how can you go wrong with doing a study on communication in your relationship!

I need to take more pictures. My camera is probably accumulating a little dust with the little bit I have used it this week...that's a rareity.

Parker tried out his new skiis and ski boots today. Clay took him outside this evening to ride the hills in our backyard. It was hilarious to watch..one minute he loved it; the next he wanted out of those skiis. But at the end of the night he asked his daddy if he was still going skiing with him next week. :)

I have been putting off going to the Post Office for a week now for no specific reason.

LOVE building fires in our fireplace in the winter.

Cooked a delish dinner tonight that was very last minute. Grabbed a recipe from a 5 ingredients or less cookbook that mom sent me...Clay LOVED it and wants me to add it to our "regulars" list. After we cook it again and I get some pics, I'll post the recipe. But for now, it was a yummy chicken recipe that included salsa, bacon, bbq sauce and a sprinkle of a few other things. Yum.

For a week now I have been craving dark chocolate (only) and wine. I have now depleted my dark chocolate stash and will have to get more soon. The milk chocolate and other yummy sweets are still sitting there waiting for a moment of weakness in the future. ;)

Cooper is one of the most expressive babies I have ever known. He melts us with his dimples and smile every day.

Cooper at 4 months: February 11, 2011

We're supposed to get a foot of snow tomorrow...Clay just came bouncing (literally) in the room to tell me.

I am about to go eat a banana because I am really hungry all of a sudden.

I was not a happy individual on Tuesday evening when I found out USA network was airing a dog show instead of White Collar...boo.

Ok, enough ramblings for one Saturday night. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

P.S. The boys had a great time down in Texas with the girls. Parker enjoyed every minute with his daddy and his aunts. The zoo, McDonalds (always makes it in the favorites list in this kids book), lots of special playtime with his Aunt Ashee and Aunt KK...he came home with a smile on his face. Thanks for having them for the weekend, girls!
Cooper and I had a great time back in Minnesota as well. We actually stayed pretty busy with events and being on the go; however, we made sure to have extra special one-on-one play time together. Also, I was thrilled to get down on my hands and knees and scrub each of the bathrooms from top to bottom. Sad, but true. I actually was really looking forward to cleaning the whole house...and clean the whole house I did. :) Still have some paper and magazine stashes to go through, but I felt so much better to have the house clean...well, for 3 whole days before it needed it again. :)

Random moments from our day today

Just a thought...I wonder if one doesn't sit down to eat for meals, but instead walks around carrying a 16 pound weight while tossing a few bites in their mouth, if those calories actually count. If not, I should be back to my high school weight within the next couple of months. I'll let ya'll know how it works out for me.

Tonight, while I was playing down on the floor with Cooper, Parker decided to jump on my back and ride horsee. I'm crouched down on my knees playing peek-a-boo up close with Cooper and Parker is on my back yelling, "Whee haw!!!" (instead of "Yee haw") and pulling my hair like saddle reigns...I think I need to invest in some new hair strengthening shampoo and conditioner.

...ok, so it was seriously starting to hurt!

P.S. We're all dealing with dry, itchy skin around here...especially the boys. I'm trying to put lotion on them twice a day (currently, I'm applying something on Cooper's head like 6 times a day), but wanted to see if anyone had any recommendations for children's moisterizer. We've got Johnson's baby lotion, Aveeno baby lotion and Vasoline Intensive Care lotion. Any others for sensitive skin (for face and/or body)?
Update: I've had several friends mention Eucerin and Aquaphor...why I didn't mention those before I don't know because we have both in our bathroom right now. With Parker we were able to get Aquaphor to work; I don't know why I didn't try this on Cooper's sweet head. Anyway, the doctor ended up giving us a prescription shampoo to help because any of the above mentioned lotions/ointments would not have helped the dry scalp by themselves apparantly. After using the shampoo once and then applying Vasoline and then Aquaphor I am seeing a slight improvement! Yea! Maybe we're getting to the bottom of it! Thanks for the tips guys! ...We're still putting Vasoline on Parker's lips (chapstick wasn't working) but using it more frequently so he doesn't wet his lips as much...which was just leading to more dryness...and so on and so on... :)

Sweet Brother Moment: Each time I change Cooper's diaper, I sing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and work in a little tickle and tummy massage. Apparantly, Parker has been watching because today he insisted he was going to be the one to sing "Itsy Bitsy" with Baby Cooper....very cute.

Disclaimer: Usually my child does wear pants; however, lately he has not been wanting to wear them around the house. Clay and I usually make him put them on so that he doesn't get cold throughout the day since dear husband likes to keep the house temperature at 63 degrees, but that was one battle I decided wasn't worth fighting today. :)

P.P.S. I think as of yesterday (note to self: January 6, 8p.m.) we are done with the Nunu (aka the pacifier --for our 3 year old that is)!!! Last night, when Parker was going potty, it accidently fell out of his mouth and into the potty. Oops! I told him he was going to have to sleep without one since it was icky. He went ALL day without asking for it until bedtime tonight and my response was, "Sorry babe, it's still icky from falling in the potty. You'll be fine. You've got your animals and blankee." Parker's response: "Ok."
...
Thank you icky potty.

one "poopy" morning, sorted laundry and other randomness...

My morning started out poopy. I don't mean "poopy" as in a not so fun situation (although it definately was not fun); I mean I literally woke up to poop this morning. Not a fun way to start the day. I will save everyone the nautious image...I am aware that poop is slightly different than that of spilled eggs on a kitchen floor.

After clean-up on Floor 3, I prayed that my 7 minute shower would be the longest 7 minute shower I had ever experienced. Dear husband, who was currently in the shower and then getting ready for work, was completely oblivious to the entire upstairs situation. As he walked in to kiss us goodbye and to grab his bags, he said, "All right, I'm gone babe. Are ya'll planning on making it to church on time because it looks like you're running a little behind?" (At this point, I had been up working for 45 minutes but no one was dressed, showered or looked like they had been out of the bed for more than 5 minutes.)

I should have been wearing a sign that said, "Warning: Sleep-deprived mom who woke up from her evening nap to lots of poop. Tread carefully. Mentioning the phrases "behind schedule," "whatcha been doing," "Is something wrong?" might evoke negative reactions." ;)

After a swift turn of the head with a cross of evil eye and a pleading look to take me with him, I replied maybe a little curtly, "Have fun at work."

Needless to say, the three of us did make it to church one hour and 15 minutes late, and my sweet hubby (who did eventually find out what my morning had been like) left me a super sweet message on my phone that made me smile. Though we missed Big Church and part of Sunday School, I'm glad we made the trek to church. Along with a great message from our speaker (at least the 15 minutes that I heard anyway...I had to leave to feed Cooper), seeing some good friends, witnessing how proud Parker was of his handpainted purple heart that he created in Sunday School, and if I was completely honest...the $1 Chai Tea Latte with whipped cream that I ordered as quickly as I could from the church coffee shop, made the morning not so bad after all. :)

...

And for some randomness...some true everyday pictures of our life right now:

For the record, I do not like all chocolate...most...but not all. Flavored strawberry cream chocolates along with any fruity covered chocolates are not on my "favorites" list. As a matter of fact, I can't stand them, so they always end up in the garbage. Here lies proof that I do not eat any and every piece of chocolate in sight...although I will honestly admit that the scale tips to the "Yummy-I like" end much more than the "Yucky-not like" side of the scale. :)   ...obviously, these were the rejects...the others were devoured over several late night evenings.

Throughout the days lately, in our haste, I have been literally tossing our dirty laundry down to the basement where I later will sort everything into piles to wash --instead of taking it down there and sorting it as we dirty it. (I'm sure everyone can't wait to see our dirty laundry. As if you don't get enough of it at your own home!)

It actually makes me very happy to see my sorted piles when I walk down there (I'm one of those that actually enjoys doing laundry...weird, I know). So, today after getting the boys down for a nap I decided to throw in a load and take a picture of my sorted and organized laundry...sad, the little things that I get excited about.

A favorite of mine that I can't get enough of lately....Pistachios. LOVE THEM. My mom still gives us stockings at Christmas; this year she mailed us the biggest stocking I think I have ever seen stuffed with all sorts of random goodies...one of which was a large container of pistachios (and no, this is not the container...that one has been long gone!)
I could seriously eat them like candy; some nights after the boys go to bed --usually on Tuesday's during "White Collar"-- I will throw on my pajama pants, grab a handful of pistachios and totally veg.

So there ya go...a "poopy" morning turned positive, proof that I do not eat everything chocolate :), my "favorite" for the week...and some other randomness.

babblings...

Shelly, a friend of mine, came over for a visit a couple of weeks ago. While she was there she snapped a few pictures of Cooper. I appreciated her capturing some sweet shots of my little babe in the moment. Shelly has decided to turn her passion of photography into a business....so excited for you Shelly!

Photo taken by Shelly Peters

I enjoyed the visit, Shelly, and I know Parker had a fun playhour with Wesley. Thank you so much for snapping a couple of quick shots of Cooper! You are such a gifted and creative person; I can't wait to see where you take these talents with your new business! I wish you the best and can't wait to see you again soon!

Last week I purchased a container for my winter emergency kit for the car (as opposed to throwing extra coats, scarves and items in the back of the trunk and leaving them there for 6 months only to be covered in dirt and icy stuff by the end of winter). Excited to have this done. Now I just have to throw in the blankets, gloves, flashlight and other necessities and we'll be set...wish I had done this before Cooper's Sip n See in Chanhassen. :) Oh well, better late than never! Winter storm comes our way during a drive and we'll be prepared.

Speaking of being prepared for emergencies, I'm thinking of keeping a bag or two of these chocolate treats in the car for "just in case" moments. My Aunt Cindy would agree that chocolate is a necessity in any given emergency.


Found a new favorite candy...Almond m&m's...why am I just now discovering these?! If you've never tried these, run (and I do mean run!) to your nearest grocery store; from my understanding they're a little bit harder to find.

Another random topic...Over the last several weeks, I've had some people inquire as to what kind of camera I use and whether or not I am the one taking the pictures that are posted on my blog.

First, the camera that goes with me everywhere everyday is the Canon Powershot SD 960. I love this little camera (although my husband would scoff at my saying that considering I talk in my sleep about my dream camera...the digital SLR that I am saving to purchase. :) However, my husband did good with this one. When my previous point and shoot camera was stolen last year in Mexico, Clay went out and bought me this one. I really do love it and appreciate its quality. If you're wanting the best point-and-shoot on the market, this one is (or was last year) the best one to get.

Secondly, yes I do take all of the pictures that are posted on the blog unless I give credit otherwise (which is usually posted directly beneath a specific picture.) The only editing I usually do to mine is to remove red eye and crop. Most of the pictures shown are a glimpse of our everyday life (hence the blog title). I just like to document the simple things in addition to the big events. :)

random little things about our recent days...

Need to buy more of these...

"Cars" Bandaids seem to turn a frown upside down almost any day! Funny how many boo boo's we're finding lately. ;)

Going for big adventures each day with our toys...

It's all about Buzz and Woody...
(ask Parker about our pizza and movie night downstairs complete with the Toy Story movie and he'll go on for hours repeating details that we should all know :)

Catching every last minute of fall weather that we can before winter hits us big...I'm holding my breath daily :)

Most important job right now...being a big brother
He takes the responsibility of getting Cooper his "nu nu" very seriously...and he's quite good at it

Amazed at how fast our littlest guy is growing...he is 4 weeks old today. Since he was one week old he has been trying to hold his head up. At two weeks, he was doing it for short intervals on his own. Every day, he's holding that head up more and more for minutes at a time. If we didn't have it captured on camera I might not believe it!! Slow down Cooper!!! You have plenty of time for big boy stuff!

I'm too pooped to do anything else right now other than sit here at the computer and jot down a quick post...one more feeding and I'm off to bed...after only getting 2 1/2 hours of sleep last night, I can't get there fast enough. Boo to the time change. ;)

splish splash...taking a quick break from my to do's

If I had some cute rainboots like these below, I would run outside and splash around in the puddles and raindrops right now. I took a quick break from my housecleaning to sit and watch the clear splashes against the window in our living area. The sounds and sights are absolutely breathtaking right now...I love little moments like this.

Boots: LL Bean

Random: Anyone else excited about White Collar this season? Clay and I watched last season and couldn't wait for the summer episodes...last night I sat down with oreos and milk, propped my feet up on the couch and enjoyed the action in White Collar and then Covert Affairs...such fun. I haven't watched a show like that in a long time. Nice to sit down and veg for a bit...and not think about 50 gazillion things. :)

Back to my house now...laundry, dusting, vacuuming, bathrooms, a little organizing here and there...those are some of my to do's today. Have a fun, splish splashy day!

Several fun things from this weekend...

I am soooo happy to be sitting here at my working computer looking through pictures from the past month & actually being able to share some of these cuties with ya'll! It has been an interesting last several weeks mixed with a little of everything: busy days, fun times, challenging hours, stressful situations, beautiful weather, laid-back afternoons. We are loving the new home & starting to feel a lot more settled in. Sooo much to share & catch up on, but I had to get on here & post some pictures from our weekend. This post will be random, but quick thoughts (I've actually got about 10 minutes before the boys get home for supper).

This was at 11:15 last night (sexy picture isn't it...half dressed in pjs, half dressed in clothes from the day). I got the urge around 10pm to start decorating, so Clay got to help me...obviously, I couldn't crawl up there by myself. :) I'm very happy with the finished results...this picture doesn't show the final arrangement, but we were having fun at this point & decided to take pictures. I will say though, that as I sit here & look at the picture, my palms are sweating (as they were last night when I was trying to dust the upper level & arrange my pretty things...I was determined to get it done though.)

LOVE this picture & these two! This was taken after church on Sunday...I have got to get some cute pics of little man in this outfit from his Rassie. It's adorable & one of my current favorites. Parker refused to leave his baseball cap in the car during church, so we allowed him to wear it in, then he placed it in his little container in the nursery until after church was over. When Clay & I went to get him afterwards, he happily walked out swinging his arms & walked over to his little bucket where he pulled his hat from. That hat went straight back on his head & stayed on for the remainder of the day. He actually wore it until bedtime (literally, I took it off after we had said bedtime prayers & as I was laying him down!)

I have started my first herb garden! It will be so much fun to have fresh herbs to use with my cooking this summer & fall. For years I have said I wanted one, so I am excited to be able to have my own small little garden of it now. This weekend, I walked out on the deck to see the first little buds popping up out of the potting soil. I was so excited I started yelling at Clay to come see my plants. He laughed....so I took pictures to show everyone. So far, I have planted Basil, Oregano, Parsley & Cilantro. I want to plant Rosemary & Mint too, but haven't been able to find it yet; they seem to be out of those two everywhere I go.

This is what entertained Parker during our long Walmart shopping trip this weekend. He took things off the shelves & lined them up across the aisles. Well, at least there is some order to it. ;)

Lots more to do...a few boxes left to unpack, frames need to be hung & of course the decorating is not done. But, I am having lots of fun playing with it all & enjoying our everyday life in our new home.

P.S. Only 2 things were broken during the move...1 was a nice glass from our everyday line & the other was my Southern Living red pedestal that I used ALL the time. Shame. I was sad about those things, but sooo happy that more wasn't broken. I about cried for joy when I unpacked all of my unharmed McCarty & Peter's. Clay still shakes his head over my protective nature of the treasured Mississippi Mud. He says there's a problem (aka mental issue) when one is more concerned for "fired delta clay" than their own expensive china & crystal. Well, I won't argue with that. I will say to the comment though, I am who I am & will proudly announce that I am a true Southerner at heart who supports & loves her MS roots...enough to appear mentally challenged if it means protecting the dear Mississippi mud that resides in my kitchen...and my living room...and my bedroom...and the nursery... :)

Headed out to scrapbook!!!!

To Do list before leaving house for girls scrapbooking weekend:

8am Target - Lock keys in car...call & wake up Clay to come unlock the car
Parker decides he's hungry for the 3rd time this morning, so we head home for another "breakfast" before leaving for gym
10am Work out with Clay - Kill my legs by letting my husband push me into doing 120 lunges & squats...will I be able to move tomorrow?...oh that's right, I'll be sitting at my craft table...he has Parker, so I'll be fine!
Lunch at home with boys - Clay takes a detour to Sonic...one corn dog, chili dog, cheeseburger, apple slices, tater tots & lemon slush later...there goes the workout!...we head home.
Call Tressa to tell her I will be late.
Bake Breakfast Casserole for Sunday School this Sunday
Dishes
Wipe down counters
Make list of meals for Friday night & Saturday
Laundry (towels & darks)
...Clay is snoring in recliner..Parker is asleep in bed..all is quiet except for my phone ringing & my playlist playing in the background...Tracy calls to tell me if she doesn't get her work finished she's never getting to the hotel...good. I won't be the only one late.
**Change Parker's sheets
Wondering what time I'm actually going to get to the hotel...
Pack pjs & underwear...radio, chocolate, sprite, water, oreos, an apple
Organize & gather scrapbooking stuff to take.. I have NOTHING together...what the heck do I leave? ;)
Load car...Parker wakes up at 3:50 pm...all right, I can do this. Just get whatever you can together, throw it in the car & get on the road!!!
4:10pm...still at home...
I feel so unorganized right now...
5:10pm...all right...last load...we're headed out! FINALLY!!! :)

Be back on Monday with fun pictures!!! :) Have a wonderful weekend!!! I'm so excited to have this time with my girlfriends! Clay & Parker will be doing all sorts of fun "guy stuff." I'm sure it will be nothing short of busy, fun & playful! This will be the first time Clay has had Parker all to himself for more than 24 hours (ever) so it should be fun for both of them. I just hope Parker remembers his mama when I come back on Sunday! ha!

Edited: So on the way to the hotel, Clay calls up Tracy & the girls & asked them if they had an 18 wheeler with them. Tracy was like, "No, but we might can drum one up for you!" Clay's response was, " Well, you might want to check into that because my wife has enough scrapbooking crap here to fill one!" HA HA Clay. Very funny. ;)

summary of last week... p.s. we're better!

Just an update: We're all well & no longer sick with pnemonia or swine flu! Yea! I quit running a fever about mid-week last week, but Parker & Clay took a little bit longer to heal. For those of you who have called to inquire about the whole swine flu thing...I was more worried for Parker's sake than mine & clay's (especially since Parker also had pnemonia). My symptoms weren't too bad..just tired with a fever & achy. Clay on the other hand had naseau along with a fever that lasted much longer than mine (even on constant medication). Parker's symptoms were mainly coughing & fever. So, was it absolutely terrible? No. Mostly like any other common viral or bacterial infection you would get but with just a little bit more severity. We took extra precautions with Parker & slept in his room at nights to be able to check his breathing & make sure all was normal.
We were basically indoors through Saturday..with a couple of outings in between. What did we do to amuse ourselves? Oh, don't you worry; we had plenty of things keeping us busy! ha!

Parker of course LOVED playing with his new race car set..thank you again Tressa!!!

...and Daddy came up with the creative drum set in our kitchen one evening!

...and there was the constant taking of temps around our home (it seemed like every other hour on the hour!)...Parker had fun with it though..."Nope, not there Parker."

"Now, that's about right!"
...and then of course the usual day-to-day "ways to keep mama busy since she has nothing to do" activities ;)

I even got this sudden urge to clean & purge over the weekend...so, my closet was first. Two heaping garbage bags & a few hours later, my closet was much lighter! (much to my husband's delight! he was thrilled when he saw items from highschool & my early college years being put in the Goodwill bag! ha! ...more on that later...)

...oh, & of course Parker helped.

Saturday evening, we got together with some friends, Jimmy & Sharise, for a few hours of fun. Say hello to Superman & Peter Pan!

That about sums up our activities for last week...with the exception of 2 grocery runs.

We're happily in a new week with new plans!

Remember to wash those hands, to sanitize things when you go out in public & to take your vitamins!!! :)

Happy Thursday!

blessings are among us

Although the H1N1 is still clinging to us & we've been quarantined to our apartment ALL week (with the exception of one outing to the grocery store on Wednesday)...

Although little man has been keeping us up constantly throughout the night wanting mama & daddy to sleep with him...

Although I couldn't stop this from happening the other night...(one guess who the little culprit was...hint: note foot in right corner that is headed in opposite direction of mama!) :)

Although we have had a dear loved one to pass away in our family this week...

Although we are wanting so badly to be with our family during this time...

Although I have come to the realization that Minnesota has decided it doesn't need more than 48 hrs of fall this year...

...I couldn't feel more blessed than I do right now.

I am blessed by the health that we do have & the fact that we are getting better.

I am blessed by the warm foods, clothes, & covering that we have each & every day.

I am blessed that we have such a rambunctious little boy that keeps us entertained 24/7 (even if he does wear us out!)

The time that our dear beloved Grandmother had on this earth with her siblings, sweet husband, children, grandchildren & even her great-grandchild is such a blessing...and the time that we all had with her. I am thankful that she is in Heaven with my daddy & all of our other loved ones who have gone on before her. I am thankful she is in this Better Place. I am thankful for Memories.

We are blessed to be able to visit family as often as we do.

It was a blessing that we had our one Sunday afternoon out at the park to enjoy the short fall in and among the leaves.

...how could you not feel blessed?

"There Shall be Showers of Blessing"

There shall be showers of blessing:
This is the promise of love;
There shall be seasons refreshing,
Sent from the Savior above.

Showers of blessing,
Showers of blessing we need:
Mercy drops round us are falling,
But for the showers we plead.

There shall be showers of blessing,
Precious reviving again;
Over the hills and the valleys,
Sound of abundance of rain.

There shall be showers of blessing;
Send them upon us, O Lord;
Grant to us now a refreshing,
Come, and now honor Thy Word.

There shall be showers of blessing:
Oh, that today they might fall,
Now as to God we’re confessing,
Now as on Jesus we call!

There shall be showers of blessing,
If we but trust and obey;
There shall be seasons refreshing,
If we let God have His way.

let the world rejoice...carrie has a new camera!! :)

I have a camera!!! This past weekend, Clay went and got me one! Thank you baby! (I think he was a little tired of me whining about moments missed...Me to Clay: "I wish you could have seen what Parker did this afternoon. It was so cool! Unfortunately, I didn't have any way to capture it & show it to you..." :) No, but I think he's actually excited for us to have one too! He asked me yesterday why I hadn't taken more pics with it! (we had been to the bank, Target & the gym! My man is sooooo learning!) ha ha! You gotta love it! I can't wait to show lots of fun, new pictures soon!
Here's one just in case you've missed seeing him these last 3 days!! (His eyes are closed, but I love his expression in this one...classic Parker smile as he's trying to run off before mom can get the picture!)