Life in a Produce Box

Happy Reformation Day!

2011-11-01T04:11:00.000-07:00

The kids and I really enjoyed studying the life of Martin Luther over the past few days. I pray that they would, like Luther, always stand up for the truth and defend their faith with bravery. So thankful for the reformers that made it possible for us to worship with freedom, to own Bibles in our language, and to sing and appreciate great hymns. Sola Deo Gloria!

Ding, Ding, Ding, Ding, DIng...There Goes the Firetruck

2011-10-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had the opportunity to go to Mimi's playschool for our first field trip. The kids were so excited. When I told them we were going on a field trip they asked, "what's that?" Homeschoolers:) The Perry Fire Department came with two trucks, five firefighters, a fire safety video, and fire hats for everyone. Luke discovered that his love for firetrucks was at a distance. He was too scared to get near the truck. Lucy enjoyed herself. Simon was really into it. He jumped at the chance to shake the hand of the "suited" fireman and because the head fireman is an old friend of Daddy's, he even got to sit behind the wheel of the truck. Their next request is to visit the station when Daddy can go too.

Fun at the Fair

2011-10-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

As always, we had a great time at the Georgia National Fair this year. Lucy has been wanting to ride the skylift since last year and this year her wish was granted on Friday night. The animals were enjoyable to observe and the petting zoo a hit as usual. We've never seen the circus before so this year we took the opportunity to go to that, it was really cute. A good time was had by all and we look forward to another fun time next year.

A Typical Day

2011-10-11T03:55:00.001-07:00

Friday Five...Recipe Edition

2011-09-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

Friday Five

The kids made these this summer with their cousins. Aren't they pretty?

1. Zucchini Muffins I made these a few weeks ago. They are made with millet but they could fool you into think you're eating cornbread. I made them regular size and the kids loved them.

2. Pear and Walnut Muffins Instead of peaches I substituted pears. I think they'd be yummy with apples also. Again, they were loved.

3. Dijon Mustard Salad Dressing My new favorite and so easy to make. I have also added a tad of honey to give it a hint of sweetness.

4. Chili I am making this tomorrow. I'll let you know how it turns out. I've been looking for a recipe with less sodium and friendly for my gluten free buddies. Hoping the hubby likes the change:)

5. Simmer this up in a pot and tell me this isn't the yummiest fall smell good ever. Better than a candle, way better.

Friday Five

2011-09-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Friday Five

1. I saw this and decided it would be fun to add to my post. Check back soon for a look into my own refrigerator. Not that you care what's inside...:)

2. I'm holding on a little tighter to my blessings this week. A Macon mom tragically lost her 3 month old son this week. I do not know her personally but know of her and have friends that now her well. The baby and his car seat fell from a shopping cart outside of the grocery store. God's sovereignty is the only comfort in times such as these. I believe that my God is sovereign. I believe that he is in control 100% of the time. I believe that He works all things, even the hardest of trials, for our good and his glory. I have no idea how this event is being used for his glory. It may take a long time for glory to be revealed. It may never be, this side of heaven. I just have to trust my God.

3. Luke's bedtime routine is the sweetest. After milk and book he must kiss and hug every member of the family. It goes like this..."want kiss", "want hug", "night-night". Sweetness.

4. Did I say a few weeks ago that fall was in the air? Why am I shocked that it left again? It's so warm and muggy. Thankfully it's not 90-100 degrees, I'll take the 80s. Just ready for the crisp weather and hoping that it arrives in time for the fair.

5. Lucy is really into drawing. I love her drawings. I have many of her drawing. We average at least 3 a day. I try to pull out the really special or exceptional ones. It's it bad to admit that the others go into the trash after bedtime???

Friday Five

2011-09-16T12:14:00.000-07:00

1. Last Saturday we took the kids to a place in Perry called Go Fish. It was so much fun. They watched a short video about fishing in Georgia and then we headed outside to look at the different fish tanks. Each tank was filled with fish representative of the different areas in Georgia. Luke was not to sure what to think about all of that and kept his distance from the glass. Back inside the kids were able to play a few simulation games; dove shooting, squirrel shooting, and fish catching. Above you can see Simon "reeling" in his catch. A good time was had by all.

2. I am really into jars right now. Clear glass jars of all sizes. Last week I reorganized and weeded through my kitchen cabinets. It was way past its time. Using my glass jars I emptied pasta, nuts, raisins, rice, etc. into my glass. I love the way it looks and it removed the bulky packaging from my small storage spaces.

3. With homeschooling I am seeing the personalities of my children through different situations and challenges. I am seeing that both Lucy and Simon are fairly quick learners. That up until this point it doesn't require too much on their part to master a new skill. That's great, until it isn't. The English language and all of its "exceptions to the rules" can be challenging to introduce. Just when they've learned that when there is one vowel in a word it will have the short sound, we come at them with the idea that sometimes the rule is broken and it neither short nor long. I'm learning that both L and S have a desire for perfection in them. They don't like it when their answer is wrong and it has to be erased and then it doesn't look neat. They both struggle with perseverance on any given day. Unfortunately they both have a teacher that is marred by sin, who lacks patience at times, and who herself could use an extra heaping of perseverance. I'm so thankful that are mercies are new every morning.

4. Downcast. This is the word I would use to describe my state this week. Over and over in my head I have replayed the verse, "why are you downcast, oh my soul?" I haven't been able to put my finger on the answer. Maybe it's that I have lots of fingers pointing in lots of different directions. I love the change of seasons but with that comes new challenges. Clothing everyone is high on the top of the list. Clothing everyone and having the right size shoes requires spending money and although I myself like to spend money my budget doesn't always like the results. Another problem, I like my kids to look cute. I know that it doesn't matter and it's certainly not of up most importance but just being honest, I like cuteness. Cuteness equals cash. On the same lines of clothing, I myself become discontent with my wardrobe and begin to feel like "that homeschool mom". You know what I'm talking about. The one that doesn't cut her hair, rarely wears make up, and looks as if her blue jeans and black tee have become her uniform. I've certainly had a few ugly days this week. You now what I'm talking about. Those days when you look in the mirror and think, can I please crawl back into bed? knowing that the answer is, "no". There are other things that fill my head; anticipations, dreams, prayers in a holding pattern. I'm so thankful that my God's unfailing love will never change. That His love is not dependent on how I feel. That He is the same yesterday, today and forever.

5. Blue jeans. Why can they be so expensive? I mean really, they are just denim. I have struggled for years to find ones that I love. And the fits. Do there really need to be so many styles? Hip hugger, boot cut, regular fit, low rise, skinny, wide legged...jeez.

Friday Five

2011-09-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

1. I've decided to bite the bullet and paint the dining room. I've wanted to for awhile now, secretly hoping Matt would say we could just hire someone to do it...ha!. Since the house will have been on the market 2 years in November I think I'll just hunker down and do it. If I'm going to live here, which by the way I do love my house, I might as well have the way I want it to be. So, hopefully sooner than later our dining room will be a new shade of "Stonington" and to top it of the bathroom cabinet will now be "Gentle Pasture". I'd also like to have a new Roman Shade in that bathroom as well to tie in the green. It needed a face lift.

2. Fall has definitely been in the air. I love the surprise of the crisp feeling when you open the door first thing in the morning. I'm sure that warm air will return for a little while but it's nice to have a few days of reprieve. The kids and I have been much more eager to go outside. It's nice to enjoy the warm sunshine without beads of sweat pouring down your face. Looking forward to the fun events of fall and counting the days until the fair. So much to love about the fall.

3. Have you gotten on Pintrest? Oh, my. It can be a bit overwhelming for me. There is so much to look at. I mainly like to stick with all things home related. I do have to guard myself. It is easy to become discontent with what I have and covet what I don't. It kind of like a magazine on steroids only with no ads and you can customize it to your own likes and preferences. It's great to get ideas but like I said, guard your heart.

4. Lucy and Simon love to play cards. I taught them to play UNO this week. I remember playing UNO with my family as a kid. I remember sitting on my brother's bed and playing before bedtime. Above photos show a riveting game of Crazy 8's. Much like UNO without all of the fancy, extra cards.

5. I still haven't seen The Help yet. I really want to and will probably end up going by myself. I was supposed to go with a friend a few weeks ago but she had to cancel, sick child. I've never been to the movies by myself. I remember before kids being sad when I saw people dong things alone, especially eating alone. Now I think, it wouldn't be so bad to have some quiet time to myself.

Friday Five

2011-09-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

1. Lucy chose to wear the above as her ballet cover up this week. Of course she got lots of comments. Since we go to church after ballet she wore it there as well. Lots more comments. I was actually very surprised she wanted to wear it. She doesn't usually like to be different, nothing too risky. Humm, wonder where she gets that? I'm glad she felt comfortable enough to embrace the cape.

2. School, well it's going. It has been really difficult with Luke. He does not want to do much independently. It would even be fine if all he wanted me to do was hold him the entire time but that's not even the case. There have been many tears shed, both him and me. I think this morning he cried for 20 minutes straight while I tried to teach Math. Most mornings I'm resorting to getting by with help from my friends; Elmo, Miss Pattycake, and Curious George. Though it's not my first choice to stick him in front of the TV, it helps to have 30 minutes of uninterrupted time. I know it will get easier but until then, we're taking it one day at a time.

3. On my nightstand: Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore, Loving the Little Years by Rachel Jankovic, In Defense of Food by Michael Pollen, A Praying Life by

Paul E. Miller

4. A Praying Life is such a great book. It is certainly one you could read every year and be encouraged every time. In the book Miller suggests that God is weaving a story in each of our lives and that there are many events and avenues that he uses to weave that story. The good, the bad, the lovely, the hard; all of it is being used to tell the story. I love his chapter on deserts. In it he says, "God customizes deserts for each of us...God takes everyone he loves through a desert. It is his cure for our wandering hearts, restlessly searching for a new Eden...the desert is God's best hope for the creation of an authentic self". I love the idea that even the hard places of our life have been self served by the hand of our loving Father. One of my best friends has said to me on more than one occasion, "being exactly where God has you is the safest place for you to be". Love that. So true. It is in the desert that God finally can get our attention.

5. I'm so over roaches. Even with an exterminator we still have them. All of my table linens are in ziplocks along with my cooking utensils because they like to invade these places. They're dirty, they're gross and I'm tired of cleaning up their mess.

Five on Friday

2011-08-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

1. Matt and I are teaching the 4 and 5 year old Sunday School class this year which Simon is in. They are so cute and they've got lots to say. I guess Simon is not the only 4 year talker out there. It's fun to see Simon around other kids his age. It's also fun to see Matt with a group of little kids. It's going to be a great year.

2. We built an ant farm last week. Fun to see them at work. They really do work nonstop. The directions said that they could last two to three weeks. Matt, who has a reputation for saving all things living within the animal kingdom, convinces the kids that they should release them a little early so that they would live. You really should have heard him. "Don't you want to let the ants go so they won't die?" So, on Tuesday we released the ants. Whew...wouldn't want their deaths on my shoulders.

3. Whoever decided to put a different Sesame Street character on each diaper obviously does not have a child. Luke has gotten very particular about which character he wants to wear. Ridiculous. Convincing a two year old that he will eventually have to wear all of the characters is a battle that should not have to be fought. Really, aren't there a thousand other things?

4. Fantasy Football. It takes on a whole life of its own around our house this time of year. Matt has not one but two teams. He won at least one of them last year. He should win as much time as he devotes to it. On one hand I like seeing him enjoy something so much. It's funny to hear him talking on the phone with his friends with such intensity while I'm thinking "how in the world does this bring you so much pleasure?". On the other hand, sometimes it hurts my feelings the amount of devotion and intensity that he gives to it. And the games, oh the games. It seems that every night on multiple channels there is a game to watch and if it doesn't come on a channel we can get it comes on the internet. Last weekend we had the opportunity to go to Jekyll Island for two nights by ourselves. Thanks to satellite radio we were able to listen to the Fantasy Sports channel in the car so we could hear lots of opinions on who and when should be drafted. (insert sarcasm) So, I'm bracing myself and trying to get "prayed up" for the long season ahead.

5. Look who started ballet this week. She insisted on wearing a bun. She's been growing her hair out so she can wear it properly for class. Excited for a week does not even describe it. We ran into her teacher in Kroger last week and all she could do was smile the biggest grin I've ever seen on her face. So cute.

Five on Friday

2011-08-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

First Day of First Grade

Gluten Free/Yeast Free Pizza

happy boy and his pizza

sweet savannh friends

1. The kids and I went to Savannah last week for four days. My dear friend Marla called and invited us to come stay while her husband was away. Wasn't sure what to expect with 5 kids six and under, it was great! The kids had such fun playing together and Marla loved being able to get caught up. There's nothing like "living" with an old friend for a few days. Getting to see them in their home with their family is such a joy. Marla and I go back to the 7th and 8th grade so there is much history and many memories. We also had the chance to see her parents, my parents and my college roommate and her boys. All short, sweet visits. Love this photo of the kids.

2. We started school on Monday. Last year went so great but this year I knew I'd have a certain velcro baby to detour me. Lucy and Simon have done great and are excited learners which makes the days that seem as if I'm in the trenched very rewarding. I'm hoping we'll begin to find our groove with Luke and he'll get used to our new routine. I'm thankful for a conversation with a sweet, homeschool mom friend who reminded me of my purpose. I do not homeschool because I think I can turn them into the smartest members of society. I do not homeschool because there is no other option. I do not homeschool because I used to teach school and it just makes since for me to teach our children. I homeschool because it's not just about the education they will receive. In fact that's is way down on the list. Homeschooling my children allows me to train their character. It allows me to have those conversations about "why did Jesus have to die on the cross?". It gives me the opportunity to see areas of their heart that need a transplant. It allows them to learn how to "serve their neighbor above themselves" in a very real way. It gives them a chance to interact with their baby brother all day and to learn real-life skills in their home. Yes, my kids will learn to read and they will learn to count, but I pray that it's their heart above all else that grows in knowledge this first grade year.

3. Last night I made pizza that my Simon and Luke could eat. They were so happy. It made me happy. Even Matt said it was good....whew.

4. Simon does not stop talking. He is talking from the moment he gets up until the moment his head hits the pillow at night. Some nights when he's in bed, I promise my ears are bleeding.

5. Occasionally I think, "If I could have a few hours to myself I would..." This weeks the answer would be, go to the library. Yes, I go. But with three other people and we are almost always on the juvenile floor. I would love a few hours to go and sit and peruse different topics of interests.

Not Fitting the Mold

2011-07-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

In our world today, what is considered healthy can be extremely broad. There are many foods, and I use this word very loosely considering many of them are packaged and have an extended shelf-life, that claim the term "healthy" that are far from being picked right off a tree or picked from a garden. I believe that what we put into our bodies affects our overall health. I believe that as parents we have the ability to control, to a degree, the health of our children. Now certainly I know with my whole heart that God in control of all things and works everything in His will but you know what I mean. If you feed your kids junk, your kids are going to have junk filled bodies.

Three and a half years ago we began a journey with our son that would forever change my view of food and the effect that it has on our bodies. I won't go too much into that here but basically after drastically eliminating things from his one year old diet, his health did a complete shift. Where he once was cranky and irritable he became smiley and content. Where he was cloudy he became clear. Where his stomach was aching, he no longer seemed bothered. After a week, I was a believer in the power of "real" foods. Simon is 4 1/2 now and he the healthy, bright, engaging little boy that at a year I wasn't sure what would happen with him. When our second son began showing signs of yeast and eczema we took the same approach with his diet and have seen such improvements.

My husband and I didn't get here with Simon and Luke because we played by the rules. We went off course. We chartered unsailed waters. We broke out of that American Pediatric mindset and got a second opinion. According to them, AAP, all of our children have at some point been labeled failure to thrive. They are unhealthy because they don't fall into a certain percentile on their growth curve. Instead of suggesting healthy food options to boost fat and caloric intake that would be good for them they are quick to run tests, draw blood, and hand out calorie filled drinks where the second ingredient is sugar and the third is some corn based additive.

Because I'm a people pleaser it is not easy for me to break out of the box, it's not easy to go against the flow. I don't stand up for my decisions at appointments and explain with conviction the choices that we've made in feeding our children. Instead I take the bag of PediSure that they've sent home with me and allow it to ride around in the back of my 105 degree car knowing good and well that I'll never feed it to my child. I make the appointment for the weight check they want to have in three weeks knowing I'll call and cancel it. There are definitely areas of my life where I am getting better with this...I think.

It all boils down to this. These are my blessings. God has given them to Matt and I to raise them to the best of our ability with the knowledge and wisdom that he gives to us every day. So if the mold tells us we have to follow certain charts and percentages to be healthy, then I suppose we've broken right out of it.

Five on Friday

2011-07-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

Waiting on our granola bars

Fun at Monkey Joe's

1. Luke hates loud noises. Hair dryers, blenders, food processors, wheat grinders. When I say hate I mean the scream bloody murder kind of hate. Not a good thing since I use almost all of the above daily. Boy can that little man scream.

2. Great new recipe for snack bars. Easy, easy and really yummy.

3. Lucy is really into performing recitals. She told me she wished she could be Angelina Ballerina. I reminded her that Angelina was a mouse. She didn't seem to mind. Needless to say, her brothers and I have watched many a "recital" over the past few weeks.

4. I think I'm all ready for school. I've got my supplies, my favorite part. Love, love, love all the new supplies. I'm contemplating hanging a dry erase board in my dining room since that is also our school room. This is our life. This is the house God has us in. If it would be practical to hang a dry erase board in my dining room then so be it. I don't think HGTV is going to be calling me anytime soon for a tour.

5. Along the lines of school, we operate well on a schedule. We like to know what the day holds and what comes next. Obviously we cannot control everything and we have to adjust when needbe, although some of us adjust easier than others.

Five on Firday

2011-07-15T05:45:00.001-07:00

1. My calling right now is to be a mother. Not the only calling I have but a very important one. I love this article about my calling. I love the response made about having your hands full. How many times to I hear that? They are full. Full of blessings. I would have it no other way. It is hard work. It is sacrifice. It is constantly dying to self. Am I good at it? No way. It more than any thing in my life forces me to live out the gospel, over and over again. I need this. I need to be reminded that it's His strength, not mine. All of the time.

2. We picked peaches this week. Very fun. Very hot. I'm glad my children enjoy such activities. It's the simple things.

3. 2 little girls. 4 bigger girls. American Girl Store. Need I say more?

4. Simon has discovered word searches thanks to our local Mexican restaurant. He had one on kid's menu the other night and brought it home to complete. I'm not surprised he enjoyed it as much as he did and finished it so quickly. His minds definitely works for puzzles of all kinds. I'm rather frightened to homeschool him. He'd definitely going to be smarter than his Mommy!

5. It's raining and it's the afternoon and it's naptime. That all adds up to coffee time at my house. Very happy about that.

Five on Friday

2011-07-08T14:16:00.000-07:00

1. We have a new toy at our house. Matt got a Wii for our family and I'm quite sure who enjoys it more, the kids or him. He and I have had several late night tennis and bowling matches and Simon and Lucy has been perfecting their frisbee throw. It is quite fun!

2. I have recently entered the world of texting. Until recently I didn't have a texting plan. I have several friends that seem to only communicate via text and I must say I've enjoyed being able to ask quick questions and such. I still don't own the ever popular smart phone, but I'm not sure that I ever will. Matt will be getting an IPhone for work pretty soon. I'm pretty sure that's all the fancy telephone technology we need at this point.

3. We just returned from 6 days in Naples with Matt's sister and her family. We had the best time. The kids LOVE their cousins and Jill is always so gracious to allow us invade her home. Her family of 8 plus our family of 5 plus Matt's 2 parents all adds up to a lot of people under one roof! This trip was filled with lots of activities. We went to the beach twice, the downtown Naples 4th of July parade, the water park...twice due to being rained out the first time, the kids had their first putt-putt experience and thought it was great fun and we watched fireworks, beachside, on the night of the 4th. Activities kept us going but some of the most precious memories are made in the house just being together. The kids really got into games this trip, cards especially. They jumped on the trampoline, pushed each other in the Barbie car, and the girls even had a morning at "the spa" thanks to Liza-Hill's creative mind on a rainy morning. A great time was had by all!

4. Our trip was detained one day due to Hand, Foot, Mouth Virus. Luke spent a week in the nursery at church during VBS. I must say I'm glad that was all he walked away with. Nurseries are known for spreading all sorts of interesting things. He never got the blisters covering his mouth, for which I am thankful, however he had a pretty bad rash on his bottom and blisters on his thumb. I'm sure they were probably in his throat but I couldn't see them. I guess we can check that virus off our list now....hopefully we won't be on to any others anytime soon.

5. Matt had a kidney stone about three weeks ago. I've never seen him in so much pain. Thankfully it didn't last long, but it was intense. One minute he was watching a movie on the couch and the next he's doubled over in pain and I'm at the corner WalGreens buying my first 6 pack of beer at the age of 35. With the beer, water, and apple-cider vinegar he was able to flush it out of his system. Poor him. He's not so good with pain.

Summer Seaquest VBS 2011

2011-06-30T11:31:00.001-07:00

Lucy and her friend Emily with their helper, Anna Helen.

Can you spot who's hiding behind the fish mask?

We had a great VBS week!

Five on Friday

2011-06-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

1. I have been living in the VBS pit all week. It starts on Monday. We've been working on it since February. I'm really looking forward to seeing it all come together. We have 71 kids registered which is so exciting considering our church had 10 in the children's ministry last summer. God is growing His church and it's exciting to be apart of it. I am so looking forward to each of these little faces singing their hearts out for Jesus next week. I can't wait for them to hear all about God's faithfulness to Jonah even though he was a big mess and went running, literally, from what he was instructed to do.

2. We are so like Jonah, aren't we? We are told to do one thing and we run kicking and screaming in the other direction. All the while we know the one who has given the instructions. He has proven himself to be faithful to us time and time again. He has showered us with blessings. He has bestowed upon us a crown of beauty and taken from us a spirit of despair. His plans are perfect and yet we run and God continues to send the big fish to keep us safe. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

3. We are now without a land line. I haven't missed it thus far however I do keep wondering who may be trying to get in touch with us that can't.

4. I am fearful of the world for my kids. I fear them becoming jaded and hardened by all that is out their. I want them to stay innocent and blinded by the realities of a fallen world. I want them to always feel safe and loved and content within our home. Children in this world where we are living no longer are children. They come into this world with adults putting all kinds of things before them that harden them, that desensitize them. Movies, music, television, even books are out there to put trash into our children. I want to be so careful with what I'm "feeding" into my children. I know that I can't put them into a bubble, although I wouldn't mind trying, but I do want to be aware and on guard. How are we thoughtfully parenting our kids?

5. The kids and I finished reading Charlotte's Web last night. I cried. I knew I would. What a great story of a sacrificial friendship.

Five on Friday

2011-06-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

As I am typing I am trying to keep my eyes from shutting. I am dog tired and it's only 2:30 in the afternoon. Early mornings and clingy toddlers make for exhausting days. I don't promise that my thoughts will not run on or together but here we go...

1. Finger painting can push me into crazy mode in a split second. The kids wanted to get it out one day this week so I obliged. When we've done it in the past Luke has been in the bed but not so the case this time. I got L and S set up and then helped Luke run his finger in the paint and paper. He did fine and really didn't care to do it for long. L and S are a different story. They were not finished until every inch of their paper was covered with paint. They both did an underwater scene and they really did turn out nice, I'll have to take a picture to display.

2. Hideouts and secret spots. L and S have been all about them this week. They get them all set up, play in them for awhile and then are crushed when they have to bring in all of the blankets, towels, and other various "house" items they've taken outside.

3. Hair salon. Lucy's other "pretend" spot this week has been her hair salon. She's set up the table in her room with her brush and comb and hair things. Hair spray, water to spray, hair dryer and of course my nail polishes. The first day she was asking me every 5 seconds...literally when I could paint her toenails. Me:"I really can't right now because your 2 year old brother will not detach himself from my body. ever." So many hair cuts (not real ones) were had and blowed and sprayed and whatever else could possibly be done to the three other people in the house all day. It's still set up just waiting for the next victim. I mean, customer.

4. I'm not really sure why we didn't just put a bow on me to give Luke for his birthday present. Don't misunderstand me, I love that little guy with every fiber of my being but....it would be nice if he would play with something for 5 minutes. He is getting a bird's eye view of many domestic skills however that I expect him to bless his wife with one day since he's being carted around everywhere I go. I wonder if my Left arm now is stronger than the Right?

5. Heat. It's here is a big way. What happens when it's hot outside? Stores, businesses and other locations crank down the A.C. I often get in my car after I've been shopping and don't even turn on the air so that I can thaw out.

Butterfly Update

2011-05-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

I realized that I never posted pictures of our butterflies after they hatched from their cocoons. Although these aren't great, it's really hard to capture them inside of the net "house", here they are.

Friday Five

2011-05-17T05:38:00.000-07:00

Our baby birds

Drawing in science journal

1. Matt is doing the Master Cleanse. He is on day two. Basically he eats nothing for 5-10 days and drinks only water and a "special lemonade" mixture of water, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper. Three other people are doing it along with him. I'm proud of him for taking the challenge and having the desire to be as healthy as he can be. So far, not bad. I'll keep you posted.

2. Yesterday I discovered a cardinal nest in the tree outside of Luke's window. The kids were soooo excited. This is what I love about homeschooling. We get to observe nature and learn about it together, first hand experience. So fun.

3. I loved this post written about homeschooling. So much of it rings true in my heart. I especially love the thoughts of #1. Being together. Learning together. Training together. Growing together. That is what will matter down the road. That is what will mold and shape their character. That is what will make them assets to the kingdom. I wouldn't hand that responsibility over to anyone, it's all mine for the taking.

4. Pregnant in Heels, it's a reality show on Bravo and I'm not ashamed to say that I love it. Real women about to have babies with real concerns and some seriously crazy thought patterns. Not to mention the fact that they all live in NYC and have money. Crazytown.

5. I make plans, God directs my paths. Why is this a hard concept to grasp at times? It's certainly above all else a comforting truth. There are times and circumstances when I want to see down the path, to know the outcome. That is not my position and my plans are merely that, plans. Sometimes they work according to my plan and sometimes they don't, they are not supposed to. Sometimes my plans are not His plans. Thank goodness for that.

Friday Five

2011-05-06T03:38:00.001-07:00

1. We have had a victory over the mouse. I'm hoping it was just one. So far the baited trap remains untouched on the counter and there have been no signs of droppings. I'm holding fast to the hope that there was a solo operator...a tricky one a that.

2. The kids and I have been obsessed with birds the past few weeks. We have a feeder outside of our dining room window. We love to watch our little cardinal family. They frequently share mealtimes with us. It's been great for the homeschooling. We've checked out several bird books from the library and drawn pictures of our newest friends.

3. Speaking of homeschooling...our butterflies made it and have been released into the world. We had four caterpillars and all four of them made the transition into a butterfly. Amazing! The kids loved it.

4. John chapter 10 has always been one of my favorites. This week I've really been meditating on verse 4..."When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice." Elective grace, what a comfort. Verse 3 says that he calls his sheep by name and leads them. My God made me in such a way that I would recognize his voice and that I could not resist following him. Comfort.

5. Alambama=devistating. May God use the devistation for our good and His glory.

Empty Places

2011-05-05T06:24:00.001-07:00

Do you have empty places within? Answers left unanswered. Dreams not fulfilled. Expectations not met. Words left unsaid. Anticipations still anticipating. Voices that are quiet where once they were loud. Thoughts unprocessed. Empty spaces.

My empty spaces give me a greater longing for heaven. Though Christ should fulfill all that is empty and void, I am marred by my sin. My sin puts my empty spaced up under the microscope. So, I wait, and dream, and expect, and sit quiet, and anticipate, and attempt to process all the while rejoicing that I am a daughter of the King and claiming His promise to me that "He will make all the rough places smooth."

Boys ans Bow Ties

2011-05-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Our church had "bow tie" Sunday this past week. Because we have a large population of college students and because they like to wear bow ties they thought it would be a fun way to foster community within the body. Simon was on board for the bow tie right from the start and surprisingly Matt went along for the ride. Funniest thing is that I think Luke was a little crushed that he too didn't have a bow tie to wear. He cried while Matt and Simon got dressed and kept pointing to their necks. Poor him! I think the men look quite dapper.

Friday Five

2011-04-29T05:06:00.000-07:00

1. I'm keeping up my theme of lists but switching days. Tuesday seemed to come too quickly each week and five seems to be much easier to accomplish. Ten points was taking me more time than my exhausted brain could muster up.

2. Mice, that is all I can think about. I've waged war against them and so far they are winning the battle. I've three spring traps set and two sticky traps. So far for the past five nights I've woken up to two traps without the bait and no caught mouse. I know the springs work because my poor father in law snapped his finger twice helping me set them. These mice are clever. One night I smeared peanut butter on them and somehow they were able to lick it off. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

3. The above is lunch time at our home. We call it the face rice cake. They make a certain 6 and 4 year old quite happy.

4. Living in the moment is very hard for me. I'm a planner. I like to know what to expect. I am constantly making lists although mostly mental. I can drive myself and my poor husband big time crazy. I see this is Simon. He came out of the womb a planner. He is constantly wanting to know what is coming next. He is learning that our plans are merely plans. They don't always work or stay the same and he has to be O.K. with that and respond with joy...just like his mommy.

5. I have not been into the Royal Wedding. I have not watched the "pre shows". I have not really cared...until this morning. I had to watch. I remember watching when Charles and Diana got married. It's something about watching a real Prince and Princess. The kids got up and watched too. A real life Cinderella.

Dying Eggs

2011-04-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

He is Risen Indeed!

2011-04-24T18:40:00.001-07:00

What He Loves

2011-04-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

Books and puzzles, two of Simon's favorite past times. Something tells me they always will be.

Ten on Tuesday

2011-04-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

1. Love these pictures of Luke, they are classic him. Spotting airplanes is his specialty.

2. I broke out the shorts today. Well, actually I wore them in Naples last weekend. I really need some new pairs but I hate shopping for shorts. They are either way too short, way too long, too hiphugger, too pleated...you get the drift.

3. The kids are watching Thomas the Train right now. I needed a few minutes after supper and before pajama time. When Daddy's gone and we've already had our bath for the night the time after supper can seem to last an eternity. Anyway, back to Thomas, have you ever noticed how some of the trains have extremely bad attitudes? Why is this necessary?

4. Luke has become a camel. He drinks water constantly. Don't get me wrong, water is great, but every morning now I'm having to change his sheets because his diaper has leaked. BIG pain! Tonight I've been trying to cut him off, we'll see if that helps.

5. Speaking of pain, Lucy and Simon set up a "spaceship" and "candy store" in Matt and I's room this morning. They want to keep it there until their friend comes over tomorrow so they can play. Keeping Luke out of it all day long has been a challenge.

6. More associations to camels, while we were in Naples last weekend we went to the zoo. Lucy, Simon and I took a camel ride. Much more uncomfortable than a horse, wouldn't want to ride one across the desert.

7. We got 5 caterpillars in the mail today. The kids are very excited to watch them turn into butterflies. Dear caterpillars, please work your magic and don't die. Thanks!

8. We picked strawberries last weekend. Yummy! I really think they were some of the juiciest we've picked. As you can see, the kids agree:)

9. Someone popped in to see our house last night. Good thing I had straightened up for the night right before they called.

10. Trying to be intentional about reflecting more on my Savior this week. Stricken, smitten, and afflicted all to bear my sins...amazing.

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

2011-04-13T12:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to you...we love you!

Spring Training 2011

2011-04-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

Spring is here and baseball has begun at The Produce Box. Lucy and Simon love for Matt to pitch to them and Luke is an excellent ball boy. Lucy has quite a swing on her although we're not surprised as she's always been freakishly strong. Simon is learning to focus and swing harder and feels much accomplishment when he makes contact with the ball.

Ten on Tuesday

2011-03-29T16:37:00.001-07:00

Ten on Tuesday

1. Above pictures....what 6 year olds think is fun??! They spent so much time positioning the basket right in the center on LOTS of blankets and pillows to break their fall. After several drops they convinced Simon to get in. Yes, all three of them were in the basket. With a lot of coaxing they toppled over, he was done after one shot but gladly watched the other two continue to enjoy themselves.

2. A side note to the above...best friends really are the best aren't they? I am so thankful that my kids really do love each other. Lucy and Simon have on many occasion declared the other as their best friend. After immediate family they certainly would consider their cousins top of the list which again I'm thankful for. I never really had the opportunity to know my cousins because they lived across county so I'm so glad mine our close with theirs. When it comes to outside of the family, Hunt has always been Lucy's bestie. They are one month apart and have always had the best time together. I'm so glad he's been able to school with us this year! Now if I can convince his Mommy to let me have him again next year.

3. March Madness. Matt loves it. He's constantly calling his dad to discuss games plays, cracks me up! Over the past few years he and I have filled out brackets and had a competition between each other. I will say I've won more times than he has...but who's counting:) This year ended rather abruptly when his #1 team, Duke, lost. Kind of sad. I actually enjoy watching those games with him. I like Coach K. I like the way he leads his team. Duke is always a class act. Maybe next year.

4. Matt and I kept the 2/3 year old nursery during church last Sunday. It was probably the longest service we've had since we've been there. They had a baptism, communicates class joining the church and communion. Yes, we were tired when their parent's came to pick them up. Matt played tea party for a solid hour...it was really cute:)

5. This week is our spring break. Where did spring go??? It has been cold and rainy for the past two days and will continue to be for the rest of the week. Speaking of rain, we had some major storms on Saturday night, three separate tornado warning.

6. Luke has never been interested in any television or movies. Last week things changed. He has a new love for Miss Pattycake. He points to the TV often and gets quite distraught when I won't turn it on. Simon also had a love for her, it just started a little earlier for him.

7. I've recently started reading a new Bible storybook with the kids It's called, Mighty Acts of God, and I love it. It is so conversational and leads to great discussion. I pray that God would be planting lots of theology into these little hearts that will one day aide them in owning their faith.

8. I recently heard this song and I love it. It's words are beautiful and full of truth.

9. Matt and I watched Inception this weekend. Really, movie like that make my head hurt. Who comes up with stuff like that?

10. I'm such an overthinker. Most of the time it takes a lot of thought for me to make a decision. Lots of options are not a good thing for me.

Cherry Blossoms

2011-03-26T12:38:00.001-07:00

Simce this past week was the Cherry Blossom festival here in Macon, I attempted to do craft related to those beautiful trees that cover our city for a few weeks. They did a great job on their simple cherry trees. So pretty. They almost look light and airy. I look over and in typical boy fashion, Hunt is adding a dragon with huge teeth to his picture so Lucy follows suit and adds a sunshine and a self portrait to her trees. Not really what I had in mind but, oh well! Unfortunately I didn't get a photo of the finished work.

My Little Thumb Suckers

2011-03-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

Ten on...Thursday

2011-03-24T10:35:00.001-07:00

1. Our house has been undergoing some Spring cleaning and sprucing up over the past few weeks. The deck was restained, the house pressure washed, and the windows scraped and repainted...all 26 of them. It's interesting to have 2-3 men working on your house for 7 straight days while you and your three kids are carrying out life inside. I'm sure they were able to hear much of our conversation, the good and the bad. I pray that we portrayed Christ's love by our words and actions and not a crazy frazzled family! I do know that several spanking went undone for fear that I'd have social services called on me. Sad that we live in that kind of a world. I must say thought that the workers were very nice and respectful, I was not worried about my kids watching them...and that they did:)

2. Lucy and Simon are both learning to read. They can read "simple word books" which has been fun. I hope they will continue with their love of books and learning.

3. I am helping to plan our summer VBS at church. It's been fun to think through and watch as it develops. Since we were members of a big church before Matt and I never had much opportunity to be involved in things from the ground level. We have enjoyed using our gifts and talents that the Lord has given us to serve NMPC.

4. One word...POLLEN! My confession is that it made me so irritable yesterday. I know that's silly! It is covering our deck so everytime the kids go outside, which I encourage them to do often, it gets all over them...hands, feet, hair, shoes. Not to mention that my head has felt as if it's been in the clouds all weeks. I am thankful however that I am not a true allergy sufferer. I can only imagine how bad they have it this time of the year!

5. With our year of kindergarten winding down I've been doing quite a bit of thinking towards curriculum for next year...first grade. How can that be??? I have loved this year, it's been so fun to watch and take part in their learning process. I've learned so much about both Lucy and Simon. Lucy is a hands on learner where Simon is more auditory. I can relate much more to the hands on/visual. Matt and I are going to a homeschool convention curriculum fair in May. I hope this will aide me in my efforts to make a decision about first grade materials. I can become easliy overwhelmed in situations like this so I'm hoping by taking Matt that he can help me weed through it all. My fear though is that he'll have his "head calculator" in full swing and be making his picks from a moniterial view:)

6. Broccoli. Nothing brings on a stomach ache faster with Lucy than that little green vegetable. We may have broccoli every other week and the rule is you have to eat the TINY piece that is on your plate. Last week Lucy chose to each nothing. Drama occurs on broccoli night.

7. Why is my most cautious child the one who always gets hurt? The other day Lucy and Simon were hanging from the swingset and dropping to the ground. Now, it took Simon awhile to work up the courage to even attempt it but after he did they did it over and over again. Of course though after a little while, he and Lucy bump into each other and he falls and bites his lip and bruises his chin. Blood, sweat and tears...literally!

8. Seasonal wardrobe changes can be quite exhausting. Due to the size of our house and the closets in it, we have minimal storage space. So trying to figure out what everyone has and needs is a job in itself. Yes it's warm enough to wear shorts but who's to say it won't freeze next week. Because my children don't grow at a rapid rate we've got clothes that fit from last year, even two years ago in some cases so sizes are all out of whack. I think I'll tackle the closet next week when we're taking our "spring break".

9. I listen to my I Pod while I'm working out at the gym. I have a "gym mix". It's all upbeat music with a good beat. I often find myself wanting to break out and dance. I often forget others could be watching and find my head bobbing or my feet tapping but since it's 5:30 in the morning I'm sure most are half asleep.

10. Look at my big boy at the top. Can't stand it! Where did my baby go???

All A Flutter

2011-03-15T16:45:00.001-07:00

Can you guess what letter we looked at last week? That's right....B. We were all a flutter with butterflies and all things B! We had fun using our handprints to make a butterfly, learning about the life cycle of a butterfly, and making our own butterfly lapbook. When our caterpillars arrive in the mail we'll set up our butterfly house and watch as they change into beautiful butterflies.

God Always Keeps His Promises

2011-03-08T17:51:00.001-08:00

Two weeks ago we studied the letter "R" at The Shepley School. The curriculum had us looking at rocks, I for one wasn't too thrilled about that so we took a diversion to rainbows. Here are our bright, cheery rainbows that we fingerpainted on a rather dreadful and rain filled day. A perfect reminder that without the rain, there would be no rainbows!

All Eyes Out the WIndows

2011-03-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

More than the other two have been, Luke is certainly aware of what's going on both inside and outside of the home. He hears the airplanes in the sky and points immediately up. He hears sirens and points to the windows. He hears Matt drive up or the garbage man and he's climbing in the chair to look out the dining room windows. I must admit, I love this about him. In fact today we had the house pressure washed and it kept him entertained for awhile going around window to window to look out and watch. Last Saturday was a yard day for our family. The weather was warmer and the much neglected outside was calling us to come outdoors and give it a spruce up. Our "yard man" kept Luke entertained while I cleaned up breakfast. He's the best...handsome and cheap:)

My Tiny Dancer

2011-01-18T18:21:00.001-08:00

Guests were invited to come and view Lucy's ballet class today. It was so fun to watch her. She was very focused and concentrated on doing what she supposed to be doing. Not surprising, but she is the smallest one in the class. Love that little figure:) I know she was so excited to have Mimi and me there but as she usually does when preforming, she had an embarrassed smirk on her face. From a former ballerina's perspective I think she is well on her way to becoming a prima ballerina...not that I'm biased or anything.

Ten on Tuesday

2011-01-11T06:26:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile...

1. Yesterday we had a snow day. Well, it was really more ice but the kids thought it was fabulous. Matt had to stay home so they enjoyed an extra day with Daddy. I say "had to" because he really would have gone to the office if he could have. Yes, I know he loves his family and our time together but he also is driven by man's biblical mandate to work. I can't complain...he's a hard worker and diligently provides for us. Anyway, if he's home too much boredom sets in and I become his hobby...ha!

2. Day 2 and we still have lots of ice. Our produce couldn't be delivered as usual so it's Tuesday morning and still no produce. It'll probably come this afternoon right before I have to take Lucy to ballet and then I'll have no time to sort it before Matt gets of work. Update...there will be no delivery this week due to the ice. Our truck can't get to us. I don't remember the last time Matt has been home on a Monday and Tuesday night. What to cook???

3. I hate to loose things, hate it! Especially when I know that the item is definitely some place in the house. For the past week some of the kids cars has been missing. I knew that they hadn't left the house and we'd looked all over for them, even Luke's little "secret" spots. Then this morning it dawned on me...last week I noticed a small firetruck ladder down in the air vent. Sure enough, the missing cars had been stuffed by our little bandit into the vent. Mystery solved!

4. Along the same lines...my wedding ring is still missing. It's been lost for over a year now. I dropped it in our bedroom and poof, it's been missing ever since. So frustrating!

5. Our cat got attacked by another cat over Christmas break. $150 later, she's on the mend. I called the animal control because the alleged attacker has been lurking in our yard several time since then. They informed me that I could come and pick up a trap. Watch your back big, grey meany cat!

6. The cold weather is not helping my love for coffee or addiction at times. I'm pretty sure morning, afternoon, and night is not a great habit to get into.

7. I made some goals for the new year. Do you make goals? Matt laughs at my goals. I like to work towards something. One goal is to go to bed earlier. I get up between 5 and 5:30 most weekday mornings. It's helps to go to bed earlier.

8. I've been cracking up at the number of people at the gym since the January has begun. I guess a lot of people get on the "work out" goal.

9. Have you noticed how bad TV is? I mean, really bad. I could go days and never turn the TV on. I do love the Food Network but when do I get to sit down and watch a 30 minute show?

10. I just finished putting together our family photo book from 2010. So fun to go back and look over the years adventures and how the kids have grown. It was a great year!

Tis the Season

2010-12-19T18:40:00.001-08:00

Ten on Tuesday

2010-10-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

Ten on Tuesday

1. We had a great time in Gatlinburg, TN. I love the mountains. The colors are breath taking. Only God could create trees that would change colors at the same time every year. Amazing!

2. I love pumpkins things. Tonight I made pumpkin muffins. I ate too much batter. I always do this. Blehhh, my stomach hurts.

3. I baked after my kids went to bed. I like to bake with them but sometimes it easier to do it alone. It's hard to have a child that can't eat what you are baking. This is one reason I don't do it too often.

4. My house smelled like fall today. I simmered a mixture of apples, cinnamon sticks, orange juice, cloves and water. The kids loved it too.

5. This week we are studying the letter "N" with a focus on nests. We made bird's nests today. VERY MESSY! I hope they turn out, the kids were really excited about them. We'll know in 48 hours.

6. Each of our kids have a special friend that they sleep with. Lucy has a turtle, Simon an elephant, and Luke a giraffe. They have been the source of many comforts throughout their short little lives. My 8 year old niece lost her lamb when we left the mountains. I'm so sad for her.

7. My friend shared her life story in Sunday School this week. She was brutally honest about the path she's walked. I am constantly reminded that God chooses whom he chooses. It's not about what we do or have done. His grace is sufficient to cover all of our sin.

8. So every time we go anywhere during the month of October my kids find it necessary to point out every scary or even not so scary thing that they see. We don't celebrate Halloween so I suppose that is why.

9. I don't like scary movies; never have, never will.

10. When Luke gets tired he cries loud and constantly. It can be very stressful, especially when the Daddy isn't home!

Ten on Tuesday

2010-10-05T17:12:00.000-07:00

Ten on Tuesday

1. It's been a few weeks. It's hard coming up with 10 things to write every week, and the time to write them down.

2. I'm loving Kindergarten. I think if I had to go back to teaching I'd like to try my hand at K5. I know we're only four weeks in, but it's so fun!

3. I love this time of the year. The crisp air after a summer of sweltering heat is very much welcomed.

4. On the same lines of this time of the year...pumpkin spice latte. Yum! I had my first one on Saturday to usher in the season. It's like fall in a cup, seriously.

5. Another fall love...the GA National Fair. It's a highlight every October. We're going Thursday night with friends and Friday and Saturday with family. Fun times!

6. We're headed to Gatlinburg, TN on Monday with the Shepley family. So excited to go to the mountains and experience fall at its best. Leaves, horses, mountains, cool air, Dollywood...good times!

7. We've eaten outside for lunch several days over the past week. Again, yeah fall!

8. Lucy caught her first fish on Saturday. We got a picture but it was on Matt's phone. She was determined to get a catch and patient Mimi continued to hang in there with her until it was done. Simon on the other hand was done after a few casts.

9. I sang a duet in church a few Sundays ago. I got asked to help lead a few songs during the service with the RUF music team from Mercer, their girl wasn't available. Since I led when I was in college I didn't really mind although I do get nervous every time I stand in front of that many people. When we practiced I didn't realize that one of the songs was "special music". Sure enough, got up there to sing and the congregation didn't join in...didn't see that coming!

10. The kids took of their PJ's this morning and immediately went searching for the "new" clothes we'd bought for colder weather. Guess it's time to change out the closets. That is such an overwhelming task for me. You know it's going to get warmer again at some point at least for a day or two, or ten. If I box up all of the clothes they won't have anything if a heat wave strikes, if I leave some things out they'll be separated from the rest of their sizes. Oh well.

11. Because it's such great news...I'm getting my braces off on Thursday!!!

My Little Helper

2010-09-22T12:17:00.001-07:00

Unloading...

and reloading.

Adventures with the Letter "M"

2010-09-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Our lessons this week are focused on the letter "M". Most of our activities are centered around the word "moon". Here are several things we've done so far.

We practiced our capitol and lowercase letters using a shaving cream and glue mixture. Much messy fun was had with the leftovers! (See above photo)

We made space helmets. How cute are they?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-08T18:14:00.000-07:00

10 on Tuesday...Fripp Island Edition

2010-09-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

1. We are on our first family (just the 5 of us) vacation at Fripp Island. It's a remote island that doesn't have much of anything on it. Deer roam around everywhere, the kids have loved spotting them while jetting around on the golf cart.

2. I could get used to riding around on a golf cart. No car seats, buckles, or straps to contend with. Much faster.

3. The first day we were riding to the beach on our cart with Matt and the bigger two up front Simon says to Matt, "Daddy your too big!" Obviously he was feeling a little crowded.

4. Luke is very efficient at destroying the kids sand castles. Yesterday after he demolished one Lucy says, "We need to get a babysitter for Luke".

5. Last night as I was tucking the kids into bed, Lucy asks me if I'm going to make some coffee. I said, "probably so". She said, "that's my girl". She cracks me up.

6. There is no such thing as a vacation with little ones. There are simply trips.

7. I love how the ocean reminds me just how great and powerful my God is.

8. Every time we go on a trip the men in my life love to crank the air down. Lucy and I are freezing.

9. Drip castles are way more fun to me than traditional sand castles.

10. I am love, love, loving watching Lucy and Simon laying and sitting in the ocean just enjoying it and each other. Pure bliss.

My Little Archaeologists

2010-09-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago I froze a bowl of water containing tiny dinosaur treasures. Today I remembered that bowl and surprised my kids with a fun activity. I gave them the bowl with two dull knives and told them to dig the treasures out. They had a blast...and it took a long time:) I'll be remembering this activity.

10 on Tuesday

2010-08-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

1. Growing up I wanted to be a marine biologist. I have always had somewhat of a fascination with turtles, I guess that is where the interest came from. Obviously I didn't continue in that pursuit but I think it's funny that Lucy told my parents the other day that she wanted to be a "turtle teacher" when she grew up. That is, when she's not being a ballet teacher.

2. Our trip to Savannah was fun last week. Busy, but fun. The baby was in bed at 6:45 Saturday night and the bigger kids at 7:10. We were tired.

3. I'm trying really hard not to stress over packing and gathering for our beach trip this coming week. We've never done a big trip, just our family. A lovely friend is helping me with my list. Isn't it great to have helpful friends to come along side of you?!

4. Why can technological things be so confusing? I'm trying to create some playlists for my ipod and simply cannot figure it out. I know it must be simple. People do it every day. Just not me.

5. I went fabric shopping yesterday with all three kids in tow. They were rewrapping all of the bolts of fabric and it was up and down every isle on the floor. Doesn't that just sound delightful for the mother who is trying to push the buggy down the isles?

6. I love good seafood. I'm looking forward to enjoying some at the beach.

7. We went to a new church on Sunday. Big step to be out of our comfort zone but exciting to be apart of something in transition. Trying to open to how the Lord will use us. Doesn't hurt the new pastor and his wife are dear friends.

8. Lucy started Kindergarten this week. The first 10 days is a study on Creation. It's been really fun and both Lucy and Simon have really enjoyed it. We like structure in our home so it feels natural for us.

9. The promise of Fall was in the air this morning. The air was somewhat crisp. Love fall and everything about it.

10. Hotel is booked for my trip to NYC. It's official!

I've Got Joy

2010-08-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

I was stressed. Couldn't my 15 month old, 3 year old and 5 year old see that I was trying to get ready to leave the house, not to mention my friend's 2 year old that I was watching while his mother took a shower? We were visiting Savannah and attempting to go to the mall and eat, kids in tow. The were playing, the baby was wanting to climb up and down the stairs, and my dear friend with whom I hadn't spoken with in several weeks called. So of course I answered the phone and attempted to talk while keeping the baby from falling, the kids peaceful, and a little make up on my face. Before no time the baby was screaming, the kids were tattling, the make up was not on the face, the phone conversation was getting harder to pay attention to and the stress was mounting. I hung up the phone, attempted to get ready with the screaming baby and the nagging children and got more frustrated. Instead of choosing to put on love, joy, peace, and patience; I chose anger, impatience, and a lack of self control. I threw the baby in the bed, who bless his heart only wanted to take a nap and pushed forward. As I continued in my "mood" I heard my 5 year sweetly singing, "I've got joy down in my heart. Deep, deep down in my heart". It was at that moment that I realized, I am allowing my circumstances to steal my joy. I was viewing the children as a road block to get to where I needed to be. Instead of calming dealing with the situations that were mounting I was impatiently letting them be known that they were hindering my plan, my expectations, my checklist. How often do I fall into sin and cause my joy to be stolen? "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." John 15:11 How often do I tell my children to do things with "joy in their hearts"! Oh that I, the chief of sinners, may be changed to present to love of Christ to my children each and every day and in every circumstance to faces us.

10 on Tuesday

2010-08-24T05:06:00.000-07:00

1. Big day in our house! Simon drank his milk this morning out of a cup. We went to Target last night and I let him choose any cup that he wanted. He picked a two pack. They both have dinosaurs and flip tops with straws...very cool:) When he turned three I said he would drop the bottle, then it rolled around and I just couldn't force the issue. Now with Luke also using a bottle with his milk I'm just tired of bottles. With several trips coming up it just seemed like the right time to do it. I hate messing with bottles on trips. So...so far so good. We'll see if it continues. *had a little trouble with the bedtime edition but after giving it about 10 minutes decided that milk in his dinosaur cup was better than none at all...i'm so thankful because it was about to break my heart.

2. Speaking of trips, the kids and I are leaving tomorrow afternoon to go to Savannah for a few days. Matt has a job down there on Friday so we thought we'd tag along and enjoy our family and friends. We always enjoy our time however it's never long enough.

3. During my freshmen orientation at Mercer the Lord immediately connected me with two girls. They were both from Savannah though we didn't know one another. Mutual friends and schools we had but not a previous relationship. It didn't take long before we all realized that we had a real friendship. We lived on the same hall in Shorter dorm our freshman year and I wouldn't trade those unairconditioned rooms, yucky bathrooms, and interesting hall mates for anythings. I don't ever think I've laughed so hard in my life! Three different cities and seasons of life have prevented us from reconnecting for a girl's weekend for many years. Well, in December we our going to NYC!!!! Ruth and Julie, I cannot wait!!!

4. Change can be scary and exciting all at the same time. Especially major change.

5. Sunday night we had a special worship service giving emphasis to R.U.F. This is the college ministry that changed my life and so many of my friend's lives. Reformed University Fellowship was birthed from the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA). It's mission is to teach and equip students to live for Christ in every area of their life. Sunday night brought back so many dear memories through the music and preaching. It reminded me how much God used that ministry to grow and mature me.

6. Lucy and I went shopping for classroom decorations today. So fun and overwhelming all at the same time. Can't wait to deck out my "sewing room" with fun kindergarden garb.

7. Lucy had her first ballet class today. So cute! She learned first position and how to curtsy.

8. I've had a bad run with fiction literature lately. I've checked out two that once I've gotten a few chapters in discovered it wasn't worth my time. So frustrating!

9. Everyone in my house sleeps with a sleep machine. We have three of them all going at the same time. Can't sleep without one now! I really think it's why my kids have always been good sleepers.

10. Our house has been on the market for 11 months and one person has come to look at it....bad market, ya think? That's alright. I love my house.

11. (just because) Matt took Simon to get a haircut on Saturday, can you say "Dumb and Dumber"? Worst haircut so far.

Crayon Roll

2010-08-20T17:22:00.000-07:00

I recently found an online tutorial for making "crayon rolls". They looked super cute and easy. Lucy was invited to a birthday party a few weeks ago so I thought it to be the perfect time to try my hand at making one. It went together quickly and would be so easy to make several at a time with an assembly line. I think I have my new "go to" gift for kids! What a great thing to keep in your purse or diaper bag.

Thursday Thirteen

2010-08-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

Because Tuesday slipped by me...

1. I find it so interesting that my most cautious child is always the one that gets hurt. At 18 M he basically took his finger off in the door jam and wore a full arm cast for two weeks. Yesterday he face planted into the hard floor in our den, the result is pictured above. I'm thankful that no teeth came out but boy was it bloody!!!

2. Another interesting tidbit from my life...every time I get a particular cashier at the Fresh Market she asks me the same thing, I mean every time. I think it must be her "question" because after I gave her my response she said, "that's what most people tell me". Weird.

3. Lucy got her ballet clothes last week and she's so excited. I had to put them up so she'd quit putting them on. Of course she does look super cute in them!

4. I got shocked on Saturday night. That's never happened to me before. Scary! We had a huge lightening storm and dumb, dumb me was on the computer which was plugged into the outlet. Big surge!

5. Each time the season gets ready to change I begin planning my sewing projects for the kids. I'm thankful I like to sew. Kids clothes are ridiculously expensive!

6. Matt and I both have a cold...yuck!

7. The grill ran out of propane tonight while I was trying to grill our vegetables for supper...nice. Fortunately it wasn't meat.

8. I've never liked peaches before. This summer, I like peaches. Maybe I had never had a good one before.

9. Kids all around us have been going back to school over the past two weeks. I'm sooo glad to have my babies at home with me! I can't imagine them being gone for hours a day.

10. I don't do well out of my comfort zone. I like my people, my spaces, my things. I'm working on this. Matt balances me out in this area. He's good in new situations. He's friendly, personable, and easy to talk to. I have a hard time making conversation with strangers.

11. Matt and I went to the Braves game last Friday night. We went with one of Matt's best friends from college. The men in front of us were so large I couldn't really see much. That was OK because Laura and I talked the entire time. We had a great time!

12. I tried and failed at making tortillas this morning. Looks like we won't be eating burritos for supper. Some things are easier to buy!

13. Matt told me this morning that Barnes and Noble is having financial difficulties. So sad. Love a book store. I'm sure that Amazon has a lot to do with it. You can buy used book cheaper and they offer free shipping, I know, I do it a lot:) I also believe that the electronic books may have an effect as well. This is something I can't get onboard with. I want to hold a book not a cold device.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T05:37:00.001-07:00

8 Kids and Some Dye

2010-08-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

Last week two friends, Amy and April, came over with their five children to tie dye t-shirts. I believe I was in high school, 16 years ago (big gulp!), the last time I did such. Going into the activity we knew it was going to be one of those crafts where we did all the work and the kids watched or there would be much more of a mess than we would intend. Of course the little ones gladly allowed us to do all of the grunt work but the biggers wanted in on the action. Overall it was an enjoyable experience, the dye wasn't hard to remove from my porcelain sink and newly tiled floor and the kids were thrilled with the results. I think Simon has worn his three out of the last five days:)

Daddy Date

2010-08-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Matt asked Simon to join him for lunch. He was meeting a few of his best friends from way back when. Simon was over the moon to be having "lunch with the guys"! For three days he would ask when it would be time. Friday finally arrived and that morning he bounded out of his room exclaiming, "today's the day I'm having lunch with the guys!". He had a great time with Daddy and his friends and is looking forward to more "guy time" in the future.

I did not catch a photo of Lucy but as you can imagine she was feeling a little slighted not being included in the "guy time". I suppose it's hard for a 5 year old to remember that she is often the recipient of time alone with either Daddy or Mommy and not so much Simon. I took advantage of the time though and planned a lunch date with her good friend Maggie and her mom and sisters...a girl's lunch to the Mellow Mushroom. Since Simon can't eat pizza it was the perfect opportunity to let Lucy enjoy one of her favorite foods with some of her favorite people.

Ten on Tuesday

2010-08-03T17:21:00.000-07:00

1. Above photo is what I looked at all day long. He actually screamed today when I put him down for a nap until I put Brown Bear in the bed with him!

2. I'm trying to recycle. Macon makes it very difficult! I made my first drop off last week to lower Seventh Street. Once you get there it's very simple. You just have to sort what you have into labeled bins. The real problem is storing it until I have enough to justify driving down there. I need a better system, but for now it's taking up residence in my laundry room.

3. Lucy and Simon have been on a big Robin Hood kick. The disney version which happens to be Matt's favorite from childhood. He can pretty much quote the entire movie. Naturally, the kids can now as well!

4. Last night I made a weekly chore chart. I got the idea from Motivated Moms. I looked at the sample page they offered and made up my own. Lots of boxes to check off...heaven! I used it today and was able to focus on certain things around the house that needed to be done. It will be very helpful to have when I start schooling.

5. I love, love, love when it rains in the afternoon. It seemed promising today with dark clouds and lots of thunder but it never produced more than a sprinkle.

6. Luke was up all night on Friday. The culprit...double ear infection. I guess I'd be crying too!

7. I organized the dresser that holds my sewing stuff today. It was way overdue.

8. Luke can be hard to feed. There are only a few foods that he will eat every time I offer them...sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, bananas, bread. This can be very frustrating!

9. Toys R' Us had Crayola markers and crayons buy one get two free the other day. We now have a years worth of coloring tools:)

10. Have I mentioned that I hate to iron! I like for our clothes to be pressed however our closets are so small that as soon you put them in the closet they can't help but get wrinkled. Frustrating!

What's Going on Up There

2010-08-02T17:27:00.001-07:00

Crafty Kids

2010-08-02T17:19:00.001-07:00

Extreme temperatures have caused us to be spending a lot of times in doors the past few weeks. Here are some pictures of some of things we've been up to. Lots of coloring, painting, and a craft ever now and then.

The Many Faces of Luke

2010-08-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

Silly Face

Boo WHoo Baby

Happy Boy

Book Worm

2010-08-02T12:12:00.001-07:00

Well, it looks like we have another book worm on our hands! I'd be surprised if we didn't. My kids LOVE books! Below was the scene I found today when I entered Luke's room. He quickly hopped up and brought none other than his current favorite, Noisy Farm, which was also a favorite of Simon's. I can read this one without even looking at the words:)

Ten on Tuesday

2010-07-27T12:42:00.002-07:00

1. I'm excited about a new tutorial that I found to make "crayon rolls". Lucy has a birthday party coming up that she's attending. I'm going to try to make one for her gift. So cute!

2. Remember how I posted that I'm looking for fabric to make pillows for my couch? Well, I made the mistake of going to the craft store with Matt. His comment, "We don't need any more pillows. The kids will just throw them on the floor and we already have the two that came with the couch. I don't like a lot of pillows." Men! So it looks like the time spent thinking up pillows was all for not:)

3. Speaking of my husband and decorating, my friend Heather and I totally rearranged all the furniture in our den one afternoon. Matt came home and it all went back to were it came from. He didn't like the location of "his chair".

4. Matt and I love the show "Friday Night Lights". I think we may be the only two people in America keeping it on air. I think he secretly likes it because he's reliving his days as the high school quarterback:)

5. Matt's lovely parents babysat the kids overnight last weekend so that we could go out. It had been quite awhile since we'd done that. Dinner by ourselves and dessert with friends, we had a great time!

6. I had my children doing slave labor yesterday. Each of them had Swiffer wipes to dust the furniture and base boards. They thought it was a blast! Who needs a house keeper?

7. I found a great site that helps to daily organize chores and tasks around the house. Instead of paying them for the ones they've developed, I'm going to make up my own to use once school starts. Remember, I love a box to check off.

8. I mailed off Lucy's registration for ballet classes yesterday. She's so excited. I must admit I'm excited for her too!

9. Matt and I are praying about a major decision for our family. More on that later...

10. The second grade Sunday School teacher at our church is retiring this year. She is 92! Isn't that amazing! She's taught for 52 years, what a legacy.

***I love my husband. I was not trying to make him look bad in the above post, only point out some of the quirky opinions he has that makes him the person he is:)

Ten on Tuesday

2010-07-27T12:42:00.001-07:00

What We've Been Up To

2010-07-21T18:37:00.001-07:00

The summer heat has definitely kept us more inside than out. Most of our outside fun has included water. We've enjoyed our sprinkler, pool, and water table tremendously. To stay cool we've been inside reading, playing games, coloring, crafting, and using our imaginations. What are you doing to beat the heat this summer?

Ten on Tuesday

2010-07-20T17:48:00.001-07:00

1. The kids and I and all of the other crafters in Macon and surrounding counties went to the opening day of JoAnn Craft Store. I saw several people I knew and enjoyed browsing the store. You couldn't have paid me though to stand in line with all my kids to purchase something. The kids weren't that impressed...hah!

2. The conversation I heard Lucy and Simon having the other day cracks me up. Looking at a photo of Matt and I prekids, their explanation of where they are is in my tummy...all at the same time just waiting to be born:)

3. The kids and I went to pick blueberries for the third time tonight. I was ready to leave before they were.

4. I just mailed our contract and deposit for our beach trip in early September. We are going to Fripp Island which we've never been to before. I'm so excited!

5. I've been journaling a lot more lately, something I've always wanted to be consistent at but have had a hard time keeping up with.

6. The book of Isaiah has been a welcomed reminder of Christ's redemption in my life the past few weeks. I have throughly enjoyed resting here.

7. I am reminded more and more how amazing the body of Christ is. A lady in our church has been teaching a group of about ten young girls to knit. They meet every week to hang out and knit. They've made cushions for church's in Peru and now they are making wash clothes for Covenant Care Adoption Services. How awesome for Her to open her home and share her gifts and her life with these young girls! I want to be more like that!!!

8. I've really got the itch to paint my dining room. What's holding me back?, actually doing it! I need a change, something new and fresh.

9. Along those same lines, I'm looking for fabric to make pillows for my couch.

10. It's really hard for me to let my kids go places without me. Lucy went to the church today for Terrific Tuesday from 9-12. She had a great time, I'm so glad. Hard for me.

Blueberry Season

2010-07-14T12:20:00.001-07:00

Blueberries for Sal is a precious children's story written about a little girl who goes off to pick blueberries with her mother. It has quickly become a favorite around our home, we like to call it Blueberries for Simon. Blueberry picking is a favorite summer activity for our family. We all love the sweet taste of those little berries picked right from the bush but I'm not sure that anyone loves them as much as Simon! Lucy will say that picking them is the best and Simon will quickly defend to say, "No, eating them is the BEST!" I don't think we've ever left without him not saying that his tummy hurt:) We've been twice already this summer. Our second trip we brought along a few of our cousins, I'm not sure that they were quite as impressed as we are:)

Watching it Grow

2010-07-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

Look what we grew!

Sibling Love

2010-07-07T18:09:00.000-07:00

I love the relationship that Lucy and Simon have. Lucy is a great big sister to Simon. Now I recognize that she is a sinner very much in need of a Savior, however on most days she is so patient with him. I love to listen to them play, using their imagination and living in their own "little world". They genuinely love to be together. I snapped this picture of them the other night. It was actually pitch black in their room although the flash doesn't give that appearance. For the past several weeks we've found them in bed together sound asleep. I guess for Lucy it really is "lonely at the top":)

10 on Tuesday

2010-06-29T11:37:00.001-07:00

1. As of last night we have a new nephew, Cedar Knox Richards! This makes six for them and we officially have more boys than girls in the family.

2. The kids and I are leaving in the morning to meet baby Cedar. Everyone is very excited!

3. I am on such a fruit kick right now. Summertime is the best! Watermelon, blueberries, grapes...yum!

4. Speaking of blueberries, we picked about 7 1/2 lbs. on Saturday. Simon probably ate 2 lbs. will we were there.

5. I started a great book the other day. It's called The Ministry of Motherhood by Sara Clarkson. I'm only one chapter in but so far it's so encouraging. Christian mothers need the body of Christ to build one another up!

6. Lucy is such a mess. I'm convinced that if anything were to happen to me, she could pick right up where I left off. So thankful for the personality that God gave her. She is a great big sister!

7. Last week I posted about my haircut anxiety. I'm happy to say that I'm very happy with my new cut! I'm not happy to say that my stylist, as he likes to be called, is moving to Dallas:(

8. Matt and I watch a show called Merlin. We may be the only viewers keeping it on the air but we love it.

9. Keeping in theme with the above, summer television is awful! We stumbled upon Merlin last summer when we had a new baby and were confined to our home.

10. Reconnecting with old friends can be like a breath of fresh air.

Ten on Tuesday

2010-06-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

1. I helped with VBS at the church last week. Wow, what a full week! Since having children I've never been gone from my home from 8:30-12:30 five days in a row, never realized how much I get done in those hours.

2. On top of VBS our air conditioner went out on Tuesday so off to Perry the kids and I went. So thankful we had a place to go so we weren't trying to sleep while sweating!

3. I have haircut anxiety. Just about everytime I go to get my hair cut I go in thinking I'm going to do something different and most of the time come out looking the same. I have an appointment for this Friday, the anxiety has already begun.

4. So thankful that I'm married to a man with such high integrity. He always does the right thing, love that about him!

5. My baby is walking! He looks a little drunk but so darn cute.

6. I love to read blogs. Sometimes I feel like a bit of a stalker into the lives of others. Can't remember if I've put this before, oh well.

7. I little behind I know but I just got my first I Pod. As posted before, I'm not a gadget person. Matt won it at work and gave it to me, sweet.

8. I love music but committing to purchasing an I Tune, I give it way too much thought! What are your favorites? Anybody, anybody?

9. As the above shows I give way to much thought into purchases. As my husband can tell you it's a good thing, but it can also be a curse. I'll look at the same website or go to the same store(not as much anymore) a hundred times before committing to the item. Don't ask me how long I hold onto gift cards before I actually use them:)

10. I love new school supplies! Last night I got out some new folders to organize some papers for next year. Matt is already making fun of me!

Father's Day

2010-06-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

Father's Day was yesterday. We had a relaxed day starting with Sunday morning worship and after that we returned home for a lovely meal of leftover pizza. Nothing fancy, but I'm realizing that in this season of our life, fancy doesn't matter. Being together is what counts. My children have been given a wonderful father who desires to spend time with them. Our weekend was filled with berry picking, swimming, and simply being together. We love you Daddy(Matt)!

One Day

2010-06-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

One day I will be able to go to the bathroom without having an audience of all of my children.

One day I'll be able to eat or drink something without being asked, "Can I have some of that?"

One day I'll be able to sit down for a meal and not have to get up constantly.

One day I'll be able to cook dinner or fix a meal without someone crying at my feet.

One day I'll be able to really clean my house instead of a quick "flyover" job.

One day I'll be able to have a telephone conversation without being interrupted.

One day I'll be able to have a complete thought and remember it for more than a minute.

But...

One day I'll be sad that nobody wants to be rocked.

One day I'll wish that someone would ask, "Can I hold you?"

One day I'll miss the little eyes that are constantly staring and observing me.

One day I'll long for the day that all of my kids were under my roof 24 hours a day.

One day I'll want them to ask me to read them a story or play with them.

"Because He holds onto His time and schedule so lightly, He doesn't get irritated at being interrupted." Paul Miller

May I be better at "holding lightly" and cherish the moments I am given.

Ten on Tuesday

2010-06-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

1. Matt's birthday is on Sunday, he will be 33. I am a year older than he is and he is constantly reminding me of that.

2. Every night before I go to bed I look in on each of my children. I love watch them sleep.

3. If Luke doesn't talk until he is three it will be fine by me. Lucy and Simon talk, talk, talk! I am not a talker, they certainly are stretching me.

4. It's hard to watch your children struggle with the same sins that you do and knowing that you're responsible to discipline for it.

5. Matt is perfectly suited for me; and to think I didn't even want to go out on a date with him. So glad that God works out everything for our good and His glory.

6. Stupid little things can push me over the edge. For example, knowing that the floor under the washer and dryer is filthy but I can't get under there to clean it!

7. I love to use freshly sharpened pencils. Right now we don't have a pencil sharpener but as soon as I get one, they'll be some sharpening going on.

8. I am very cold natured. My Father in Law gave me a Snuggie for my birthday, I use it almost every night.

9. It's weird to think that I live in the same city that I spent 4 years of college in. Seems like a life time ago.

10. Loyalty is a very big deal to me. I can be just about loyal to a flaw. I've realized throughout my life that everyone does not hold this trait to my high standard.

One Is Fun

2010-06-02T11:58:00.001-07:00

Ten on Tuesday

2010-06-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

1. It's pouring rain and I wish I could take a nap! Who doesn't love a good nap with the rain beating down? I'm jealous of my kids!

2. All three children are thumb suckers, an orthodontist's nightmare!

3. I started a quilt 10 years ago. It's sitting in a bag right next to me just waiting to be finished, I'm almost there...

4. Salty or Sweet, definitely salty!

5. Every Friday night, Matt and I have an in-house date night. We put the kids to bed, order Ingleside pizza, and watch a movie or a show we missed from earlier in the week.

6. I used to be such a movie person. I loved going to the movie theater and saw tons of movies. Now, not so much. I don't even really know what's playing or care for that matter. I do miss the popcorn though:)

7. I wish I was a person who took more "leaps of faith". I am such a planner. I think this part of my personality causes me to stunt my spiritual growth at times.

8. I love to shop at the Fresh Market. I certainly don't get to on a regular basis but when I do, it's such a treat!

9. Some day I'd like to be in a book club. Not sure when that day will come but maybe it will happen.

10. I don't really like to wear shorts. I wear them because I grew up in Savannah and live in Macon, two very hot and humid summer cities. I much prefer my blue jeans.

Birthday Buster Boy

2010-05-28T12:19:00.001-07:00

A year flies by so quickly! I am always so surprised when we reach birthday time, another reason to savor every moment. You have been a delight from the start. I won't go as far to say as an easy baby, but we've made it. You are a curious little thing and love to be entertained by your brother and sister. I don't know who enjoys it more; you or them but I do know that you have won their hearts and your Daddy's and mine as well. Your curious nature has gotten you quite a few bumps, mainly to your head. Between falling out of your crib at six months and the highchair just last week I'm beginning to think we should have named you "Crash". We are so blessed to have been given the responsibility of caring for you. Your Daddy and I pray that your heart's desire would be to love the Lord your God with all your heart, and to love others more that yourself. I know the He has given you gifts and talents and I can't wait to see how you use those for His kingdom. Every time I have a baby God teaches me so much about myself and you have been no different. I find that my nature and selfish;you, Lucy and Simon help me die to that every day and for that process in sanctification, I thank you. I love you so much little Lukie! I look forward to the memories ahead with great anticipation!

Summer has Begun

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

The calendar may not have officially rung in the summer season but all things point to it around here. We are loving being outside this year. Bubbles, swinging, sandbox, bike riding and water fun have been a source of entertainment for the kids and me. Matt tends to be ruled by the temperature gauge where the outdoor enjoyment is concerned but he's good to oblige the kids as much as possible:) I hope the little charges will continue to enjoy being outdoors, surrounded by God's creation.

Hair Cuts

2010-05-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

The kiddos were way over do for a hair cut so today I took all three to have that done. It was Luke's first and he did great! Sadly Mommy forgot the camera and Maggie, the hairdresser, lost the pieces that she'd saved for me so I'm pretty sad about that. Another hairdresser in the shop took some pictures with her camera phone so we'll see if I ever get those. Lucy got a pretty drastic cut. I must say that I love everything about it except that it makes her look older:( I think it'll be much cooler for summer and easier for the pool. I can finally see Simon's "baby blues" again which makes me smile:)

Good For You Foods

2010-05-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

Today has been a great day for this Mommy that loves to feed her babies "good foods". This morning I made crackers that actually turned out pretty good. One batch got a little too crisp but the others were nice and soft for a baby's bite. I love the thought of giving my little ones foods that have "good for you" ingredients, nothing processed or refined just basic goodness. We also made zucchini hummus which both Lucy and Simon loved and asked to eat for lunch...score! It was eaten with carrots and the freshly baked crackers:) This afternoon I made a roasted veggie orzo salad to be paired with some lemon basil chicken that I'm about to grill. My hands smell like lemon and I love it! What a great day!

Ten on Tuesday

2010-05-18T10:55:00.001-07:00

1. My children are the best part of me. I am so blessed to have these three little charges to train up in the knowledge and admonition of the Lord.

2. I love baby cheeks. I could kiss on Luke's little ones all day long.

3. I am easily stressed. Too much going on is way too much for me to manage. I do believe that in being a mom and all of the challenges that come with that I have made strides in this area.

4. I love to pick fruit during the summer months. Last week the kids and I picked 8 pounds of strawberries. I put two in the freezer, the rest are gone:)

5. I pretty much rotate the same two things for breakfast and lunch every day. Steel cut oats with agave nectar and walnuts one day, plain yogurt with agave nectar, walnuts and strawberries the next. For lunch, half turkey sandwich and fruit or a salad.

6. Along the lines of the previous, I'm a routine girl. I like to know what to expect. Some say that's boring, I find much comfort there.

7. I love to write things on my calendar. Seeing the coming events makes me happy.

8. I gave up caffeine 10 years ago to help with my mitro valve prolapse. I can really tell when it enters my system.

9. I make my own bread. I hear it's a learning process, I'm still in the process.

10. I love the smell of the marsh. Most people hate it. I think only those who grow up on the coast can appreciate it.

Ten on Tuesday

2010-05-11T17:37:00.001-07:00

1. Lucy got her first bike last week. She's been so excited about it!

2. I love to sew clothing for my kids.

3. I am so excited to be getting my braces off in a few months!!!

4. I love the beach and am looking forward to our vacation this year.

5. Favorite pizza topping...green olives, yum!

6. There are so many things that I'd like to be better at.

7. I appreciate deep meaningful conversations with good friends.

8. I love coffee more than food.

9. I am not a gadget person, new things don't intrigue me.

10. I don't enjoy large groups of people, too overwhelming. I much prefer a small gathering.

A Messy Start

2010-05-08T09:01:00.001-07:00

Yesterday started with dried sweet potatoes in the baby's hair and needless to say, all over the crib! Fortunately there hasn't been a repeat performance. How in the world did he sleep like this?

Thursday in the Produce Box

2010-05-06T08:54:00.001-07:00

Cuteness!

Mama's helper!

Laundry

A bubble for Luke

fresh baked muffins

10 on Tuesday

2010-05-04T12:15:00.001-07:00

10 on Tuesday

1. Who knows if I can keep up with this list every week but I'd like to give it a try.

2. I love all things home but would LOVE to have someone else deep clean it once a month.

3. I'm looking forward to the new adventure of homeschooling Lucy next year.

4. I love the library. Maybe it's because my Mimi was a librarian and it's in my blood. I even love the way it smells. That old book smell is the same in every one I've ever been in.

5. One day I'd like to take a photography class.

6. I love our organic business and the opportunities that it gives our family. I don't love Mondays and Tuesdays when Matt is gone and I have to sort the food.

7. Is it bad to say that two o' clock is my favorite time of the day? (naptime)

8. I recently joined a gym. I love my Thursday night class; a mix of yoga and pilates.

9. I'm sad that our two favorite shows are ending in a few weeks; Lost and 24.

10. I can't believe that my baby Luke is about to have his first birthday!

Life on the Farm

2010-05-03T17:41:00.001-07:00

When you have a Mimi that teaches preschool you often get to take advantage of all the fun stuff they do there. "Life on the Farm" is a program put on by Fort Valley State. They brought the farm to us; cows, chickens, goats, sheep, ducks, even a Japanese quail. The kids had a great time!

Rainy Day

2010-05-03T17:38:00.001-07:00

What do you do when it rains all day? Play in it!!

Brave Buddy

2010-04-22T06:19:00.000-07:00

God has blessed us with two cautious children so far. I better not speak too soon as Luke may be our dare devil:) At first Simon was very against trying the above zip wire, but after a day of observing Lucy do it with success he was warming up to the idea. Here he is giving it a try. So proud of him!!!

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

2010-04-22T06:12:00.001-07:00

Our trip to Savannah was brief but delightful! We had a nice time playing in Forsyth Park and wishing that our city of Macon had such playgrounds and parks for families to enjoy. A great time was had by all. Happy Birthday Dad!

Daddy's Clothes

2010-04-13T12:37:00.001-07:00

When Matt was little he had a horse that he loved named Marshall. Here is Simon wearing Matt's "Marshall Outfit".

Celery as a Teether, Who Knew?

2010-04-13T12:34:00.001-07:00

Just the Boys

2010-04-13T12:31:00.001-07:00

Lucy was gone the other day so we went for a walk, just me and my boys! Simon thought it was great to be in the stroller with Luke as he usually shares with Lucy.

Easter Time

2010-04-06T18:38:00.001-07:00

Lucy and the princess egg she found.

The church has an egg hunt every year at one of our member's homes. Here are Lucy and Simon enjoying a snack.

Our family on Easter Sunday. The light doesn't show their outfits that well, they looked so cute! Lucy was really proud of her bonnet:)

A Sunny Day

2010-03-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

A Visit With the Cousins

2010-03-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago we went to Naples to celebrate our nephew, Trand's, 13th birthday. The kids and I along with Matt's mom went early and were there almost an entire week. We had such a great time. We went to a great downtown playground one day and were able to go to the beach another afternoon. The water was cold but the kids could have cared less! They were in it and loving it! Here are just a few cute shots that I captured of my three while we were there, as well as one with all eight grandchildren and their Mimi.

Snowy Day

2010-02-16T12:18:00.001-08:00

We had so much fun playing in the snow and on my birthday too! What a great day! Simon did not care for it but that's not surprising, it's cold and wet. He likes to be safe and secure and snowballs being hurled at him are not his idea of a great time. Lucy and Matt on the other hand had a blast. Hearing them laughing together was such a treat. I wouldn't want it every day but every once and awhile it's fun!

Crafty Girl

2010-02-16T12:15:00.001-08:00

Lucy loves to do "arts and crafts" as she calls them. I gathered Lucy and Simon together to make Valentine's cards last week and they both were excited. Simon made two and called it quits so Lucy gladly finished the remainder of the pile!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-02-16T12:13:00.001-08:00

Twenty Years and 5 Kids Later

2010-02-09T12:16:00.001-08:00

Around twenty years ago (did I really just type 20...yikes!) the Lord brought a special friend into my life. I could never have imagined at the time just how special she would become to me. Marla and I have done it all together! From youth group trips to choir tours to forking lawns, even spending the summer in Europe, we've been together. Laughter has always run deep in our friendship and I can imagine it always will. I am so thankful to have her in my life. Last week we were able to spend three days together with our precious children. It was so much fun to catch up and see the kids enjoying one another as much as we were enjoying each other. I'm so looking forward to many more of these opportunities together! I love you my friend! We've come a long way from chicken McNuggets and mustard sauce:)

Simon's 3rd Birthday

2010-02-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

We went to Build a Bear...here's Ribbit!

Mommy cannot believe that you are 3 years old! I am so proud of you. I was so worried that you would have a difficult time adjusting with a new baby and you did wonderful! You are a great big brother and Luke loves you, you can really make him laugh. God has given you such a sensitive spirit, I pray that He will use it to bring kindness and compassion to others. Maybe it's all that we've overcome together but you have truly stolen my heart! I am so thankful for the ways in which God has allowed you to adapt to life. Happy Birthday Simon boy!

Dear Lucy...

2010-01-31T06:50:00.000-08:00

Baby Lucy's new dress.

Lucy's new dress to match Baby Lucy.

Happy 5th Birthday Lucy!

A sling for baby dolls.

Happy Birthday to you!!!

It's hard to believe you're 5 years old! When the Lord gave made you a redhead, He gave you a smile that is just as bright! It seems only yesterday that it was only you and me. You have grown in so many ways over the last year, becoming more and more independent. You are developing such creativity in your play, it is so fun to listen to and watch! Mommy's little helper you certainly are, I can always count on you. I pray that the Lord would continue to grow your sensitive spirit to be kind and compassionate to all. May He mold you into a young lady who is passionate about the things of Him and may you use the gifts and talents that He has given you to bring Him glory. I love you!

My Heart

2010-01-21T13:10:00.000-08:00