{miska}

Jesus Calling

2012-01-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

While Noah took it easy on the couch on Monday, we were talking through some things and landed on the topic of what it means to be good man (or a good little man, in his case). I often talk to the boys about what makes Daddy a good man, and Noah has been soaking up some good things from a new book he and Mason got for Christmas. Adam and the boys gave me a daily devotional for my birthday called
"Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young.

Each day's portion is written from the perspective of God speaking directly to the reader, and with my birthday falling in December, I got all giddy-excited about the idea of beginning fresh with page one on January 1st. Then I was even MORE excited to stumble upon a children's edition of the very same devotional during our Christmas gift browsing for the boys. Adam and I were stoked and couldn't wait to give it to them, knowing that Noah could read theirs to Mason each day as I follow along in mine. Noah has been reading like a champ these days, so the book was a devo + new read combo gift--SCORE! It was neat for me to listen to the boys talk Monday morning, naming off qualities and characteristics that I sometimes feel like we're teaching and preaching in vain. Some of it is settling in their hearts instead of flying in one ear and out the other ear--victory! After we finished brainstorming, I thought it would be fun to print out our little list to hang up on our memo board near the front door. Noah and Mason had fun pecking at the keyboard to spell out some of the words, and I had fun playing around with the layout and design part. Oh, and Emmitt had fun munching on his cup of cheddar bunnies at our feet. :) Here's what we came up with:

Kind of our own little version of the subway art/family rules I see floating around Pinterest, but geared towards the 3 princes in our home (thanks to my lovely friend, Raechel, for the heads up on some fun new fonts). After pinning it up next to a picture of the boys from our family photo shoot in November, Noah thought he might like a copy in his room, too (which, of course, meant Mason requested one as well). So I'm on the hunt for some fun frames to go along with their new words of encouragement. Also on my To Do list: finish reading "Raising A Modern-Day Knight" with my hubby.

Coming up with some words of encouragement for my boys' growing souls got me thinking about how often boys get a bad rap . . . unfairly so. You hear phrases like "sugar and spice and everything nice" to describe little girls, while boys are stuck with the stigma of being rude, wild and rough around the edges. Adam was out of town for a few days last week, so the boys and I ventured out to Target (where else?) to walk around and break up the l-o-n-g weekend. After receiving the second "Three boys, huh?" observation of the day (more on that subject in Party of Five, Family of Six), I took a breath and we looped around the store to the little people clothes. We passed by rows and rows of pink shirts words like "sweet" printed across them, and as we made our way over to the boy section, I could hardly find a single item without skulls and crossbones plastered all over it. I was a little girl once, and I can tell you with complete certainty that my demeanor and character as a child was not at all determined by (or reflective of) the fact that I wore dresses and hair bows instead of superhero costumes and baseball caps. I adored baby dolls and loved all things girly, but I was also rough and loud, I was mean and feisty, I fought with my sisters, I yelled, I disobeyed, I ran off babysitters, I threatened to run away. I got older, I was disrespectful, I argued, I broke rules, I lied. I was a mess. Sugar and spice? Not so much. My mom was put through more with this girl than any mother should have to endure.

Our world leaves our young men broken and ill-prepared, choosing lust over love, wealth over worth and recreation over responsibility. The media-made man is portrayed as lazy, ignorant, sex-driven, insensitive and incapable. Somewhere during our fight to empower our women, we began to demean our men. For every stigma and stereotype society has created, there is the exception. While I know my fair share of men that fit the description above, it is a far cry from the man I married, and no where near the direction we are working tirelessly to point our sons. We are fighting against the current, trying to hold their hearts above water so they do not get sucked under.

As we are working to build our sons up, the world is working to tear them down.
What are they to think when the constant theme from onlookers is how hard, how much of a handful, how brave (brave? really?) we must be to have
3 [gasp!]
little [eyebrow raise]
BOYS [insert commentary here]?

My kiddos are not perfect. They think burping is funny, forget to pick up their toys, talk back when they shouldn't, are challenging at meal time, push each others buttons, whine (oh, how they can whine).

But they are not monsters, they are little people--MY little people.
My BLESSINGS.
My JOY.

They have ears that can hear snide remarks, minds that mull them over and hearts that are affected.

Why do I get the impression that many people think mothers of girls have hit the gender jackpot while all-boy families got the short end of the stick?

One of the hardest parts of going out in public with my three sons is not my three sons--it's the public.

It's a disheartening battle--having to defend my children simply because they wear blue instead of pink. I am finding that many minds and opinions are already made up (and so freely spoken) before they even give my boys chance. To add insult to injury, they expect me--their mama--to nod my head along in agreement as they make their comments. I am sure that all-girl families receive comments as well. I am equally saddened by the fact that so many remarks directed at little girls are appearance driven. The emphasis on outward beauty (as defined by the world) begins so early on, planting a seed in them that can quickly become such poison as it grows. There are impossible standards and unbearable pressure placed on young ladies today. I know, firsthand, how these deep-rooted wounds can wreak havoc on the heart and mind, and the struggle it is to untangle and heal from the damage. Perhaps I am more sensitive to it all because our own daughter could not be here with us, leaving people only to comment on the three children they can see instead of the one they cannot. As the mother of three precious sons--with my only daughter in Heaven--it hurts my heart.

Nothing that Adam and I accomplish in our own lives will matter as much as the three people we've been trusted with raising. I can count the number of truly good men I have known in my life on two hands. I was brought up by a single mama that worked herself to the bone to provide for us, and an absent father that could not cope with his role and responsibilities of raising his three daughters. We need more devoted husbands, present fathers, selfless providers, unconditional protectors, Godly leaders, more GOOD MEN in this world. It is time for a change, time to break the cycle and the stigma. It starts here in the land of dirt and Lego men, amongst the heaps of laundry, family dinners and goodnight kisses.

Noah, Mason and Emmitt,
You are good people.

You are compassionate.
You are tender.
You are kind.
You are smart.
You were made with a purpose.
You are worthy.
You are wanted.
You are LOVED.
You are HIS.

I am blessed to be your mama and so proud to call each of you my son.
Love you,
Mama

"Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

-Philippians 4:1,4-8 

Sick

2012-01-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

Noah was home sick on Monday. :( He's missed 2 of the last 7 days of school. He seems fine for a day and then it's back again with a vengeance the next morning. Poor guy. Actually, our whole family has taken turns being pitiful piles on the couch lately.

This is one time that I wish the boys weren't so affectionate with one another. Mason's bottom lip started quivering when I told him he needed to hold off on kissing Emmitt for a few days . . . a tricky thing to enforce when Emmitt is all about the kisses right now.

Is it just me or has this been a crazy sick season? Our house has been hit hard this winter--definitely worse than most years. I feel like I take a lot of measures to keep our family healthy, but man--what goes around goes around goes around comes all the way back around. The boys know the drill . . . we wash our hands first thing after being out and about (especially after school), LOTS of shopping cart disinfecting, Germ-X doling out and vitamin taking on a regular basis. I suppose having our two oldest boys in school for a good portion of the week makes us more exposed this year. I cringe at the thought of all the nose pickers, snot sleeve wipers, bad aimers and no hand washers. And then with all of the pencil swapping and doorknob hopping--ugh. Grossness abounds.

True Story:

A boy I had a mad crush on from 1st grade through 5th grade lost all of my attention after I watched him repeatedly pull a pick-scoop-dip-wipe in the back of social studies. His signature move consisted of an open book as cover so he could do a little gold digging, followed up with a casual (yet blatantly obvious) tip of his chair to WIPE IT ON THE FLOOR next to his desk. Every. Single. Day. Ew ew ew. That's just naaasty. Moral of the story: more hours at school = more germs following my guys home. Bleh. So when it's not tissues and sore throats, then it's potty runs and middle of the night "clean up on aisle floor"--on and off . . . annnnnnnd back on again since Christmas. Needless to say, I think we're more than ready for Old Man Winter to move along. And maybe I need to do a little refresher course on why the boys should be utilizing those little color coordinated clip-on hand sanitizers and antibacterial wipes I send off to school with them (if you're OCD and you know it, wash your hands). If they're not the nose pickin' kiddos, then by golly they're going to be the freakishly clean kids in class.

Noah's Camping Party {Golden Birthday // 7 on the 7th}

2012-01-14T17:32:00.000-07:00

We have a SEVEN year old. Seven.

On January 7th, we got to celebrate 7 years with our oldest prince--his golden birthday. He is our first born, our thinker, our helper, our tender-hearted leader. He turned precious dreams of motherhood into a living, breathing reality for me.

What a blessing you are to us, sweet boy. You are so very loved, my son.

Noah has been asking for a pet for some time now, so we thought 7 sounded like a good year to begin down the pet road. Given that we have a houseful with our growing brood, we needed to start out small. A huge smile spread across Noah's face as he unwrapped his first present the night before his birthday to find a hanging fish bowl for his room. We took a little trip to our local pet store that same evening and Noah picked out a baby beta.

This is "Lulu," and Noah is just a bit smitten with her.

About a week before his birthday, we chatted with Noah about what kind of party he'd like to have. We threw out ideas, knowing that the older he gets, the lamer mom and her silly party theme/decorations are going to be. I'm reveling in these years while I can still get all craft happy for their special days. After brainstorming for a bit, we landed on a camping theme. One of Noah's FAVORITE memories in his 7 years thus far is definitely his camping trip this past summer. While Emmitt and I were visiting my family in New York for a family reunion 12 l-o-n-g years in the making, Adam took Noah and Mason on a week long camping tour through our beautiful state. The boys talk about that trip ALL THE TIME and I often find them setting up pretend camp around our home. I know it will be the first of many adventures, but this one was certainly special to all of them. Precious time for our boys with their Daddy and memories that I know they will cherish for years and years to come.

Camping in January? Yes please.

Noah started off his birthday with a breakfast run with Daddy and Emmitt to buy "bear claws" from the store bakery. Gotta have bear claws for a camping party. :) While the boys were out, I happily set up Camp Noah with my mom and sister.

What party wouldn't be complete without a little Lego dude taking his place in the mix?

Treat bags for little camper guests . . .

S'more mix for Noah's buddies to take home with them . . .

After figuring out what direction Noah wanted his party to go, I poked around Pinterest for camping party ideas and found this sweet cake (she found her inspiration here). This was my first attempt at making a cake with a fully decked out top and oh man, it was SOOOO much fun. I baked four 9 inch round cakes to build the layers (alternating chocolatey dutch and yellow swirl flavas), then I stacked them up, frosted the whole thing and went to work with my fantastically fun marshmallow fondant (I used an easy peasy recipe found here). My mama and my little sister drove over from Denver to celebrate our Noah boy. So thankful! My sweet in-laws ended up feeling under the weather (most likely a shared thing from our sick little boys the week before), and with my older sis closing in on her last few weeks before my her third baby girl arrives, they decided it was best to stick close to home.

Finishing (and starting) touches the night before . . .

I took a couple* pictures of the finished cake.

*This is the part where my literal, math-lovin' seven year old would inform me that a "couple" implies TWO. I also hear him quietly count his way up to 60 under his breath when I tell him we can do something "in a minute." I guess I shouldn't be surprised if he grabs a handful of m&m's when I tell him he can have a couple, or when he takes an extra 20 minutes to play when I tell him he just has a minute more. :)

I may or may not have gotten a little carried away as I snapped pictures of our little camping scene. What can I say . . . the real birthday boy would only oblige for so many shots, and the little fondant Noah was just staring at me with that big, happy perma-grin.

Our happy, toothless 7 year old . . .

This is his "excited and slightly bashful" smile. Love it.

Blowing out the campfire . . .

Kind words and fun new things from friends and family . . .

Baby bro checking out the stash . . .

A little something that Mason and Daddy picked out just for our Noah . . .

Hanging out with Aunt Ellie as he digs into the tent after dinner . . .

Our big boy ended his day with more cake, a movie + popcorn picnic in the living room, a few rounds of his new Battleship game (thank you, Nana!), LOTS of Lego building and big birthday kisses from Mason . . .

What a sweet day!

Happy 7th Birthday, Noah Patrick!

So excited to see what the Lord has in store for you this year!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Cold Days + Hot Springs

2012-01-10T12:18:00.001-07:00

Adam had the Monday after New Year's off and we were set on squeezing the last bit of winter vacation goodness out of the day before he headed back to work. My guys are such huge fans of the water, so we decided to hit up our favorite little hot springs pool about 40 minutes away. It was Emmitt's first dip in the hot springs and he was ALL smiles. Floating in a giant warm pool outside with the whole fam--who wouldn't love that?! Noah and Mason's summer swimming lessons proved their worth as the boys cruised around the pool with confidence and ear-to-ear grins. As an added bonus, we ran into a bunch of friends and familiar little faces while we were there. The air was frigid but the sun was bright and the water was toasty. Adam was kind enough to brave the cold to hop out of the pool and snap a pic of me with little man. Thanks, my Love! Belly laughs, precious time with my four favorite guys, wrinkly, prune-y toes, special treats at the little chocolate shop, and naps all around.

A sweet start to 2012.

Giraffe. It's what's for dinner.

2012-01-10T10:55:00.001-07:00

This is what's cooking over at Café Little Prince:

Dinner à la Emmitt.

On today's menu: Croc, Bumble Bee and Giraffe.

Yum.

So Fresh and So Clean Clean

2011-12-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

We're back from our Christmas travels and I'm getting reacquainted with my friend here:

Anybody else use Ecover Stain Remover??

This stuff is stain removal gold, I tell ya. It's one of the big guns in our laundry arsenal (Big guns, huh? Arsenal? Maybe I've been watching a bit too much Top Shot with the hubby). This little bottle with the happy pink top has a permanent home in my laundry room and is a necessity in the wear-it-and-share-it hand me down trend we have going on in our family. So far, I haven't found anything it hasn't been able to tackle. And believe me, I've seen my fair share with our three little men (and one full grown one). We have one that's constantly getting a bump and bloody nose, one rough and tumble dude (that believes his sleeve might as well be a built in "nackin"), and one with baby food all up in his business. Grass stains, blood stains, sweet potato, mustard, spaghetti sauce, the three browns: chocolate, mud, and, *ahem*. . .well, ya know. If you don't have a favorite stain stick, this stuff is worth trying out. Plus, it isn't just something for those that have small people doing a number on their clothes--everybody gets messy sometimes and I've found this to be my go-to stuff. Did that little stain stick schtick sound a bit like a commercial or what? I spend a good portion of my week thanking this gem of a cleaner for saving my kiddos' shirts, pants and itty bitty undies from being cast off to the island of misfit clothes, and I figured a good find is worth passing along.
Can you tell I don't get out much? Ah, the things that get me excited these days! :)
Domestic bliss.

I recently read the following article over on Babble that I got such a kick out of:

Stay-At-Home vs. Working Parents

Questions to help spouses bridge the communication gap

By Heather Rigby

My husband always asks how my day went. And he really wants to know. He’s nice like that. As we slowly push the girls around in the stroller, he shares what went right during his day at the office, and I share funny things the kids said. On bad days we vent stresses and offer support and advice.

But lately I can’t help wondering if when I mention that my day was sort of stressful, he mentally thinks, “Yeah, my days are like that too.” Because I really don’t think that our days have the same sort of stresses.

When you decide to become a stay-at-home parent, you enter into a different realm — one ruled by illogical two-year-old dictators, school schedules, and choosing the correct color yogurt. As much as I can explain this to my husband, I don’t know that I’m getting through. Now I’ve done the next best thing: creating a list of questions that will help him and other office-bound parents gauge how (cough, cough) similar their days are to ours.

When you walked into work this morning and pleasantly greeted your co-worker Jim, was his first reaction to scream “NO! WANT JASON!" followed by an office supply being thrown at you?
Has a colleague ever climbed up on your lap while you were using your computer and slammed the keyboard with both fists until the up arrow no longer worked?
Do you have to lock yourself in the supply closet or bathroom on a regular basis in order to make phone calls?
Did you finish a complete thought at any time during the day?
When you went out to lunch with your fellow workers, did you have to pack a diaper/juice/extra outfit for them? Did you have to wipe their faces? Smile an apology and leave an extra tip for the waiter on their behalf?
When a co-worker needed you for something, did she sit at her desk with her head tilted back toward the ceiling and repeatedly scream “SEAN! SEEEEANNNN! SEAAAAAAN!” until you came to find him?
When you needed a specific colleague, did you search all over for him, only to finally find him giggling in the cabinet under the sink? Did you also find six pairs of your church shoes under there with him?
Have you had to come to an associate’s aid because she fell off her desk after trying to climb on top of it using a rolling chair?
When you reached for the report a co-worker was handing you, did he snatch them away at the last second and scream “MINE!” while shoving you backwards?
Does your colleague lift up her shirt and pick things out of her belly button every time she comes over to ask a question?
While you are using the restroom, do various co-workers come in the stall and ask you to settle a disagreement or open a packet of fruit snacks?
During a board meeting when everyone is present, do you notice a smell and then have to check all your colleagues’ pants to locate it? In fact, at ANY point in your day do you have to deal with another person's feces?
If the answer to most of these questions is no, it’s a safe bet to assume you’re in an office. That said, if your answer to most of these questions is yes, and you know you’re in an office, it’s safe to assume you might need a new job.

. . .

Oh man. I smell what this gal is stepping in.

Motherhood isn't glamorous. Some days, it is hard to recall the time in my life before my legs didn't have a five o'clock shadow or I managed to use the bathroom without an audience. A time before the contents of my purse consisted of Band-Aids, spare diapers, stray Lego pieces and granola bars. I have replaced my perfume with baby wipes (because a good baby wipe will clean up just about anything). I've traded in my favorite shade of lipstick for a surplus of concealer to cover up those dark circles and pesky forehead wrinkles I've acquired from perfecting "The Look" over the past 7 years of motherhood. You know, the one you give in the grocery store when your kind, sweet, precious child enters meltdown mode over a cookie, complete with arms a-flailing and mid-screech feet stomp that draws in glances from aisles away . . . that look. Vague and distant are the days when I started out my morning with a nice hot shower and nothing stuck to me.
Let's face it--dried on drool and breast milk is never sexy.
Keepin' it real, folks.

We were at an event a few weeks ago when I overheard my husband talking to someone about what he does for a living. When they asked him what it is that I do, he explained that I stay home with our three little boys. "I've got the easy job," I heard him say. "My day is like an 8 hour vacation compared to what my wife does all day." Made my day. My Adam, he just blesses me. Being home with my little people is one of the things I thank God (and my hard-working hubby) for each and every day. It's all I could think about growing up . . . being a mama. This is huge for me. And while it has its challenges, its heartbreaks, its discouragements, motherhood also has gifted me with some of the sweetest victories, rewards and JOY on this Earth. I believe that I am living out an ENORMOUS part of my purpose raising these precious babes. I feel like I am right where I'm suppose to be--especially in this season when my sons are small and soaking up the world around them. I want to make sure that the things they are soaking up are good for their developing characters and growing souls.

What I do everyday is certainly not much to some, but to me it is everything.

This past Mother's Day, Adam kissed my hand as we left our church parking lot. Peeking back in the rear view mirror at our 3 little men he said, "Hey boys, when you meet a princess you kiss her hand." I smiled as my husband demonstrated love to our boys. My happy little love bubble burst just a moment later when Mason piped up (without skipping a beat) and said, "She's not a princess--she's just a boring mommy." Ouch. That one stung. Then before we could even open our mouths to respond, Noah added his two cents, "Yeah, and she doesn't even have a job." Sucker punch right to the stomach. I half expected baby Emmitt to add "And she's fat, too!" from his car seat, just for good measure. My. Heart. Sunk. Tears stung my eyes as I tried to digest the honest, unfiltered, call-it-as-they-see-it perspective that flowed so freely from my little boys. For the rest of the drive home, Adam spoke and Noah and Mason listened. He asked the boys how clean, fresh clothes magically return to their dresser drawers, or how breakfast, lunch and dinner appear on their plates each day. He asked them who fixes up their boo boo's, holds them when they are sad, drives them to school and back home again when the day is through, reads them stories, searches high and low for lost toys and missing loveys. They hadn't meant any harm or hurt feelings by what they said, and they felt pretty bad about it once Daddy explained to them how much weight their words could carry. To Mason, being just a mommy (as opposed to some sort of flying, crime-fighting superhero) did seem pretty boring. I guess stain annihilation doesn't count as a super power. To Noah, our day-to-day doesn't seem like much of a job, especially since I don't head off to the office every morning and return each evening like Daddy does. They are children and they were just speaking what made sense to them.

I am no wonder woman. Not by a L-O-N-G shot. I wish that I could mother my boys with the same fervor and excitement as a new mama, but with the know-how and wisdom of a seasoned one. I fall short daily. My kitchen table is currently camouflaged with remnants of this morning's breakfast, junk mail, random projects in progress, and homework papers adorned with smiley face stickers. The floors in my boys' rooms are peppered with tiny Lego pieces, the bathrooms could use a good scrub, my mountain of laundry is calling my name. I stay up way too late, drink far too many cups of coffee and prioritize poorly sometimes. If you drop by unannounced at any given time during the day, you'll likely find us in our pj's with toys and books and mismatched socks strewn about the living room floor.

We live here in this house, and it looks like it.

The OCD in me does not want to let go of having things just so all the time. I don't function well in a mess. There came a point after our middle little arrived, and then again when our third son made his debut, that I had to do some surrendering. I'm still trying to find balance between tidiness, sanity, quality time with my sons, my hubby and my Lord, and a bit of time to take care of me. My precious downtime when little ones are snoozing could be spent sweeping the floors or folding another load of laundry, but jotting down a few words here and doing some head and heart housekeeping feels important, too. So while my house could be neater and my hair fixed a little more often, I know that this is only a season (one that is speeding by), and there will be a time for all of that later. And I'm ok with that.
We're making memories among these messes.

"Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children." - Charles R. Swindoll

Middle Little Christmas Party

2011-12-20T01:12:00.001-07:00

Earlier this month my sweet friend, Jess, hosted a fabulous Christmas party just for preschoolers. My Mason tends to hitch the tag-along train for a lot of social things with big bro, Noah, so it was such a blessing to dress my middle little up on a snowy Saturday and head to a Christmas party, just the two of us and just for kiddos his age. I take absolutely no credit for this sweet setup (I just snapped some pictures as the festivities unfolded). Jess and fab co-host, Martha, did an OUTSTANDING job putting this party together. The highlights included a hot cocoa bar, cookie decorating to our hearts' content, red and white polka dot paper straws for sugar rimmed juice glasses, candy cane striped homemade playdough in mini Mason jars, and A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E tiny red aprons for each little one, complete with their name embroidered on the front! Great BIG props and thank you's to Jess and Martha for putting such time and care into the details to make this SUCH a special time for our children! Way to go, gals!

{Gracious hostess, Jess}

Family Photos + Merry Christmas to YOU!

2011-12-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

On a windy, brisk Saturday this past November we decided to try for some family photos. The last picture with all five of us in it was taken for Emmitt's birth announcements over a year ago! We weren't too sure how it would all go down with Adam and I attempting to wrangle three busy boys going in three different directions, but I went into our little photo shoot without any huge expectations. If we got a few good ones, awesome, if not, we would try again another time. Along with my handsome crew, I brought along my stash of photog equipment (my Canon 7D, 50mm lens, tripod and my trusty wireless shutter remote, for those that are curious). I also packed some tasty treats and a few props. A couple stowaway Nerf guns even made their way into the mix. We started downtown with fun stone walls and an iron stairway, and wrapped things up back at the same park where I took some pictures of our Noah a couple months ago. It helped to keep things light and fun (enter Nerf guns). We let the boys try their hand at taking a few shots, made LOTS of silly faces and moved quickly. Thankfully, it all worked out fairly well and we got some sweet, real life moments captured. Mission accomplished! There is so much going on in each photo--lots of personality from my three little men showing through. I loved just clicking away and catching it all as it played out. They're not all perfect, but they are so US. I have had the pleasure of taking some wonderful families' photos over the past few months (and even of a few squishy newborn babes as well--eek!). Being in front of the camera with my little fam was certainly a different experience. Comfortable, chaotic bliss. :)

So in love with these four guys . . .

What self-shot family photo sesh would be complete without some humorous [sometimes blurry] outtakes?

Oh yes. Our sweet Emmitt looks like he is going into battle with Mel Gibson, Braveheart style.
(My hubby assured me that people would get the Braveheart-esque quote referenced in the photo above, but I'm thinking he meant guy people).
Either way, I can't look at that picture with a straight face. While it appears he is less than smitten with the camera in front of him, Emmitt was actually really excited and kept pointing towards it yelling, "See!" and "This!" (two words we hear all day long from our curious little prince). Good times, I tell you. The outtakes alone were enough to make my day.

. . .

This is how they all came together for our Christmas card this year . . .

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a blessed 2012.
Peace + LOVE to you from the Miller Family!

"And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
-Luke 2:9-12

D + E

2011-12-09T14:04:00.001-07:00

I had the chance to take a few pictures of my GORGEOUS little sis and her hubby while we were visiting them for Thanksgiving. Such a good looking couple! Ah, SO fun. Love you, guys!

i {heart} sisters

Promotion

2011-12-04T16:33:00.001-07:00

TWO little teeth in two weeks . . .

. . . which means this mama has officially been promoted to

"Tooth Fairy!"

This sweet boy's grin just got a bit bigger.

You. Are. LOVED.

2011-11-30T20:26:00.001-07:00

Mason and Emmitt were eating lunch the other day when Josh Groban's "You Are Loved" came on (it's part of my little music playlist over there on the bottom right if you feel inclined to jam along). Donning my p.j.'s (which is how you'll catch me most days in between school runs), I cranked up the volume and spun around the kitchen with my arms outstretched as far as they would go. For those that are wondering, I am fairly certain that I dance the same way I did at nearly 27 (coming up next week . . . eek) as I did when I was 4 years old. There might have been a tutu involved back then. I just may need to get me one of those for my mid-day dance sessions. When we we got to the chorus, both little men gave me great big giggles as I pointed to each of them and belted out at the top of my lungs,

"YOU! ARE! LOOOOOOOOOOOVED!"

{hand hearts included}

Mason was so smitten when he figured out he could make them too.

So in case you needed a little reminding . . .

YOU

ARE

LOVED!

 "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." 

-John 3:1-2;16

Project Nursery

2011-11-25T19:07:00.001-07:00

Hello, out there!

Hope you all had a fantastic Thanksgiving with those that you are grateful for. We ventured over the river and through the woods to soak up some sweet family time. Wonderful food, precious company, and even a few photo shoots (more on that coming soon!). So thankful for my beloved hubby, my three princes and my Maggie girl. Ah, my heart overflows . . .

I am grateful that all of YOU take the time to stop by our little space to say hello, offer encouragement and love on our family. Your kind words and support from near and far are such sweet spots in my day. Thank you!!

In other news . . .

When I was pregnant with Mason, I stumbled upon a design website called Project Nursery that had all kinds of fun inspiration for nursery and party decor. I spent a lot of time there pouring over fun rooms and celebrations that people had put together for their own babes and I loved finding ideas to mix up and make my own. When we found out we were pregnant with Maggie, I drooled over precious pink rooms, and when we learned Emmitt would be joining us, I found myself at Project Nursery again looking for new room inspiration for little boy number three. For Emmitt's nursery, I ended up doing quite a bit of winging it but stuck to a lot of bright colors to tie everything in together. I mentioned in his first birthday post that I used a lot of elements from his room to decorate and plan his party. Project Nursery has a fun place where you can view (and add to!) their gallery of little people rooms and birthday parties, and I found out a few days ago that the designers picked Mr. Emmitt's party to be a finalist for their November drawing. So, so fun and such a honor!

I feel pretty silly asking, buuuuuuut . . . if you have a second and are up for putting in your vote, it certainly would bless me! While you're there, take a peek around. Even if you're not planning a nursery or party, there are some pretty spectacular spaces in their gallery! It doesn't require any info from you, just a click here, a check on Color Me Happy {Emmitt's 1st Birthday} and then submit with the Vote button. Easy as that and I would so appreciate it! Voting ends Wednesday, November 30th at 11:55 p.m. PST. Big, huge thank you's in advance!!

O R I { f r o G } A M I

2011-11-16T22:38:00.001-07:00

Ribbit. Ribbit.

emmitt {13 months}

2011-11-16T00:39:00.001-07:00

This month has been full of firsts for our little man.

Sweet Emmitt, at 13 months you . . .

. . . had your very first haircut. As usual, daddy and I both had a bit of trimmer's remorse afterwards. You and your big bros seem to go from babies to little boys after that first trim. Keeping with tradition, mama did the honors. However, with Aunt E now living in the same state, she just might have first dibs at future do's since she's the real pro. Hard to say goodbye to those wispy curls, but fun to say hello to tiny spikes on top.

So handsome.

. . . are digging yogurt, bananas, cucumbers, nectarines, Veggie Booty, graham crackers, pb+j's, and cheddar cheese. Still not a fan of milk from your sippy cup, so we have yet to make the switch from mom to moo. One sip and it usually gets thrown overboard at mealtime. We'll get there, but we're not rushing it.

. . . think Peek-A-Boo is just about the greatest pastime ever. If there's a blanket, towel, t-shirt, etc. laying around (which is pretty much a constant at our house), you make a beeline for it. You are careful not to make a peep as you sit so still waiting for someone to say "Wheeeeeere's Emmitt?" Always big grins and belly laughs when we peek under your covers.

. . . weigh in at 19.7 pounds, sporting 12-18 month duds and are still in size 2 diapers.

. . . started waving goodbye/hello. It's SO cute to watch as you concentrate to make those little fingers move.

. . . have traded in the Jumperoo and Ergo carrier for push toys and shopping carts (sanitized and/or covered, of course).

. . . are filling in that grin with 8 tiny chompers (4 on top and 4 on the bottom).

. . . love wrestling with big brothers and daddy (mommy stands by as referee, ready to jump in and rescue our lightweight when the big boys get a little too rough). If we're down on the floor, you're booking it over to sit on us, blow raspberries on tummies or tackle with open-mouthed kisses (we ADORE those kisses, by the way).

. . . will get up and bounce/wiggle/shake your little baby booty when you hear the theme song from Go, Diego, Go! (Mason's show of choice). Also, pretty sure this is where you picked up growling, which you practice often when we're in the car, providing for lots of backseat entertainment and giggle fests with your big brothers.

. . . point excitedly and "oooooh" at new things. My favorite thing so far: watching you take in Christmas lights and sparkly decorations for the first time. LOTS of pointing and ooohing.

. . . are climbing up on E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G. You're getting pretty tricky, too, using anything you can to give you a little boost. Our tall kitchen table is about the only thing you haven't found your way up to at this point.

. . . think it's a hoot to mimic things we do. Monkey see, monkey do. Your favorite things to pretend are talking on the phone (toy to your ear, head tilted, big grins), drinking from a cup (and sharing with anyone nearby) and ~~fixing~~ banging on things with your hammer. So neat to see your imagination at work already.

. . . love love LOVE bath time. Love.

. . . have discovered the joy of flipping through board books. OR, if you're 4 1/2 and almost 7, board book baby barricades. The big ones build it, the babe breaks it down, the mama hums "Don't Fence Me In." It's a good time for all. :)

. . . are still taking two great naps a day and sleeping pretty great at night, too. Hooray for sleep!

. . . are officially walking! Ahhh! Though your preferred mode of transportation is still crawling (at lightning fast speed, I might add), you get huge smiles as you let go and trust those little legs to move you forward. Where's that pause button again?

"Look mom . . .

2011-11-09T23:59:00.000-07:00

. . . no hands."

First steps--check (tear, sniffle, cheer).

Look out, world! This guy is on the move!

The Happy Day Project

2011-11-06T23:56:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't appreciate a little random act of kindness?

Just looking at this happy little rainbow of words makes me smile.

I discovered this gem of a project over on Miss Julie's blog.

Aside from the fantastically colorful lil' picture that comes along with it (you know I love me some color), the schedule below gets this list-making mama pumped to love on some people this week, random acts style. Life is hectic and our days are B-U-S-Y, but this I can do.

If you're feeling random and kind and digging some do good spirit, hop on board, too (blog not necessary, no restrictions apply, smiles in rear view mirror may be larger than they appear). What better way to kick off this season of gratitude and giving than by spreading a little sunshine and blessing some unsuspecting people in our paths? I don't know about you, but I could use some sunshine. We start tomorrow and I can't wait to tell the boys!

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

-Matthew 5:16

Lanterns for Maggie {October 15th}

2011-11-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

This past Summer I was talking with my Adam about ordering some floating lanterns to send up next April on Maggie's birthday. Our girl is always on my mind and I find myself talking about her often in our daily conversations. As we transitioned from Summer to Fall, I tucked the lantern idea away and prepared myself for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day that October would bring. These months can feel so heavy for a grieving heart, especially as the holidays season approaches. This year, the heaviness seems to have crept up on me even sooner than last. Such conflicting emotions, this being one of my favorite times of year but also one that hurts the deepest. One afternoon as I was settling my little boys in for nap time, I was surprised to hear the the UPS man knocking at my door. I hadn't been expecting anything, and opened my package up to find a stack of floating lanterns. Just a few days prior I had been lamenting over yet another hard anniversary date and the weight that it carried. My Adam had heard my hurting heart loud and clear, and decided to order the lanterns for us to send off as part of our own remembrance day for Maggie. So thankful for this good man and the ways he blesses me. As the sun began to sink on October 15th, we walked our boys out to the front yard and began lighting our lanterns. Emmitt was enamored with them. Noah and Mason were anxious for their turns and shouted up as they sent them off. We stayed out long after the lights had become specks in the sky until they disappeared completely. It is amazing how much a little flame can light up the darkness. Lots of love sent upward to our girl.

So thankful for that flicker of light in the darkness.

I imagine the view from above was pretty sweet.

Love you so very much, Maggie Girl.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” -John 8:12

My Cup Runneth Over

2011-11-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

A little photo fun with my dear firstborn before our date night . . .

AH . . . this boy of mine overflows his mama's heart.

This time with my oldest son filled me up. Before our impromptu date night, we headed off into the Fall forest with a stack of our seasoned books, our little yellow school desk and my camera. This boy loves to read and even more, he loves to write and draw. Without fail, his favorite part of the school day is his creative writing time. He is my little author with a vivid imagination, detailed illustrations and some of the best handwriting I've see from young hands (much to his mama's delight). :) I love the eagerness and fervor he has for soaking up new things. He spends a great deal of downtime at home filling up his journals. I have a cedar chest my mama gave me for my 13th birthday, and it is filled with my own pieces of writing from when I was in school. It is a passion that Noah and I share, which I just love. I have piles of Noah's journals tucked away thinking perhaps one day he, too, will want to see where he began.

I blink and I see this little boy that has grown by leaps and bounds before my eyes. He is no longer that tiny, wrinkled infant that I once held on my chest. His hands wrap around more of my own now. I have watched his capacity for compassion grow along with his form. He has settled in sweetly to his role of the oldest brother to two little boys that ADORE him. And our Maggie girl . . . ah, a girl would be BLESSED to have such a kind, protective older brother looking after her. As big as he loves, I know his baby sister can feel his heart for her from way down here. He has learned to love well--undoubtedly something he has observed and taken in from watching his daddy. He craves structure, much like his mama, and loves to figure out how things work. Though they have their moments, Mason thinks the world of Noah. They are truly best friends. It is my hope that they will just grow in their friendship as they get older. Brotherhood was a given, friendship was a choice. I love that they have chosen to delight in one another. Noah shares an incredible relationship with Emmitt. There is a bond there that was born out of pure love, concern, elation and relief when Emmitt became part of our family. Emmitt brought a great deal of healing to our Noah's heart after taking such a devastating blow from losing his beloved sister. He relishes his littlest brother and I love to see how they interact. Emmitt is drawn to him like no one else, soaking up his gentleness and sweet demeanor. As I take in all that makes up this boy, I am so proud to be his mama.

Some nights I fear I will tuck him in as a little boy and he will wake up with a deep voice and hairy legs hanging over the bed's edge. It pains me to think of the day when his hurts and troubles can no longer be healed by a cup of hot chocolate and his mama's arms. I know that it is all part of the process . . . more changing, more independence, more growing. We have been called to raise future husbands, providers, fathers, leaders and defenders. I pray (and I pray and I pray and I pray) that God will give Adam and I the wisdom to raise this man-in-the-making to take refuge in, gain confidence from and serve wholeheartedly the King that made him.

Noah, you were made for a purpose and God has a great plans for your life.

You are so dearly loved, my son.
What JOY you bring!!

"Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children."
-Charles Swindoll

Suuuuuuuper Mason!

2011-10-26T18:14:00.002-06:00

When you live with a real, live superhero, there is hardly EVER a dull moment.
Such GUSTO.

I can't imagine life without you, Super Mason.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T15:42:00.000-06:00

{KISSES}

Catching Up {35 Moments + Memories}

2011-10-21T15:42:00.003-06:00

Some catching up, Instagram style. :)

1. Oldest bro with youngest bro on his 1st birthday

2. Impromptu nap time with my sweet Adam and his mini-me at Aunt Ellie + Uncle Evrod's new place

3. Mason finishing up his last week at Sporties for Shorties (this year he got to try soccer + baseball + basketball + hockey)

4. Emmitt's 1st birthday cake (which has sent mom into a pennant banner making frenzy)

5. Baby E jump, jump, Jump-A-Roo'd himself into dreamland

6. Noah reading a new book to Emmitt (thank you, Aunt Char!)

7. i {heart} apples

8. The big boys getting all matchy matchy with their sweatshirts as we grab a quick breakfast on the way to visit the new IKEA

9. Macey Face giving a big thumbs up to a date night out with mom (smoothies + cinnamon rolls + spur-of-the-moment dance session outside the coffee shop)

10. My new do (thanks to my talented fashion guru + little sis, D) + downtown photo shoot (thanks to my fantastically photo-savvy bro-in-law, Jeff) + a new photography business adventure (thanks to my ever-encouraging, crazy-supportive hubby)

11. Our Mason boy catching some zzzzz's with his fighter jet + best bud, Moo Moo the lamb

12. Noah + Mason learning the art of origami while mom + dad paint the kitchen/living room wood beams white

*Side note: Our boys aren't allowed to bring food out of the kitchen, however we made a few exceptions when we moved the table into the living room while we painted. As they were eating breakfast one morning a huge smile spread across Noah's face and he whispered, "Mom, this is 1/2 of my dream come true. I always wanted to eat in the living room!"
Ah, the little joys of life. :)

13. Sleepy Spiderman just couldn't prop open his peepers a second longer while we waited to pick up big bro from school

14. Built in mustache fun

15. A little craft time card making

16. Another outing to our favorite red bullseye

17. Photo prop wishlist

18. Mr. E sportin' some spikes and looking oh-so-grown-up after his first (!) hair cut (sniff, tear, sniff)

19. Mason taking a second to "read" A Cowboys Prayer out of his new bible from Granny + Papa

20. Making a Jenny sandwich (complete with her precious baby bump) during some much needed and l-o-n-g overdue sister time {a whoohoo!}

21. Dressing up the driveway before the Bosom Buddies walkers pass by our house

22. Rainy day giraffe hand

23. Emmitt in his "Star of Mommy's Blog" bib as we try out a new restaurant in town (Sign of the Times: Target carries such a bib for mommy bloggers--ha!)

24. Big boys soaking up the day's last rays

25. Burlap + baker's twine + yummy fall candles made for some quick teachers' gifts on the cheap

26. Showing our support of the Breast Cancer walk (thinking of my Grandma Kae who fought the battle twice)

27. My ridiculously good looking sis and bro-in-law, Evrod, who just moved back to our neck of the woods {HOOOOORAAAAAY!} after being too far away for too long

28. 3 little bubs in the tub (littlest bro feeling SO BIG next to Noah + Mason)

29. Bump 'n Jumpin' in the living room = hours of entertainment and bliss for parents and kids alike

30. Warming up the windowsill with yarn-wrapped yellow-y goodness

31. Biggest and littlest looking so much alike as we warm up our floating lanterns

32. "Look mom! No hands!" E taking a break from cruising with his b-day gift from Nana to practice standing on his own (first tentative steps to follow--eek!)

33. My Noah, the artist + writer extraordinaire (this boy is SERIOUS about his journal/drawing time...best part of his day next to slobbery wake-up kisses from little bro each morning)

34. Adding an IKEA spice-rack-turned-bookshelf to Noah's wall for easy peasy reading access

35. My beloved Adam . . . sending off floating lanterns to our Maggie girl for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Emmitt's 1st Birthday {woohoo!}

2011-10-19T15:46:00.000-06:00

Waiting on his birthday cinnamon rolls.

Brotherhood + Birthday Present + Bedhead (x3)

Prince of the Forest

Discovering leaves . . .

Peek-A-Boo Crown

Out for Birthday Dinner

{he had the cheese quesadilla and LOVED it}

Kisses! Birthday love from big brother, Mason.

It's a bird! It's a plane! It's Suuuuuper Emmitt! Sweet birthday card by big brother, Noah. Given that little tush squiggle, I would guess Super E has super human stinky pants.

Party Time!!!

I had SO much fun planning Emmitt's party. 

 Aside from the BAJILLION photos, 
I realize he won't remember it. 

Did I lose w-a-y too much sleep working on little projects for his party?  Maybe so.  What can I say?  Making things makes me happy.  There were definitely some crazy looks directed my way from my sweet family that came into town the night before.  We were all up late chatting away as I feverishly sewed the streamers together (did that crazy woman really just say she sewed the streamers??).  Thanks for all your help, sisters!  The way I figure it, my sons have the rest of their birthdays to choose.  This first one, mama got to pick and plan how to celebrate our sweet Prince's first year with us.  I used a ton of stuff from E's nursery, which is super bright and colorful.  There was lots of sweet treats (my apologies to the moms and dads who let their kiddos attend our little party).  Incidentally, the birthday boy didn't have a lick of it and wasn't sold on the whole cake thing either (which is just fine by us)! The past 12 months, our Emmitt has brought much-needed joy, laughter, smiles, cuddles and warmth to our family.  We were so blessed to have so many friends and family there to love on our boy on his special day! Here is our day from behind the lens . . .

Emmitt's Time Capsule {to be opened on his 18th birthday}

Cake made by the A-M-A-Z-I-N-G Jenn

(she made the cake for Emmitt's Sprinkle & Noah's Kindergarten Graduation, too) She's my cake makin' hero.

Emmitt Isaac, you are ONE year old and so dearly loved!

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day

2011-10-15T16:22:00.001-06:00

Today is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

It has been 4 years since I first became aware of this day that recognizes and remembers little lives that have been lost to miscarriage, stillbirth and infant death.

It is our 3rd year of being on the other side . . . remembering our own sweet girl.

The past few months have brought a really hard heart season for me.
Grief certainly has no rhyme, reason or time frame.

In this season, it feels new and fresh, excruciating and overwhelming.

The great void where she would have been is growing bigger.

Some days seem so frantic and unbearable.

Today I have kept the tissues close by, drenched my mama's shoulder, hugged my 3 little boys and my precious husband so tightly, and prayed.

Needing a bit of reprieve from the pain . . . even if it is just long enough to soak up some of the joy around me.

But OH, how I miss my little girl.

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33

Maggie girl,

I'll love you forever.

I'll like you for always.

As long as I'm living . . .

my baby you'll be.

. . . .

Would you do something for me?

If you have lost a precious baby,

or have a sister, daughter, mother, neighbor, co-worker or friend that has,

would you please take a second to jot me a comment below.

My heart breaks for those who know this hurt.

I would love to pray for those hearts today.

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." -2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Bedhead, Pucker Lips and Bright Eyes

2011-10-10T10:04:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-05T21:08:00.003-06:00

We've all been there . . .

2011-09-28T10:18:00.000-06:00

I know the feeling, little yellow-headed Lego dude. :)

emmitt {eleven months . . . almost ONE!}

2011-09-26T16:21:00.002-06:00

Sweet boy, we are now counting the days instead of months
until you are ONE.

Oh my, how this year has flown by.

At eleven months, you . . .

. . . weigh in at 19.8 pounds and are still rocking the 9-12 months clothes and size 2 diapers.

. . . eat like such a champ. You're a big fan of bananas, nectarines, yogurt, cheddar cheese and mama's chicken noodle soup (you literally shovel in the pieces of chicken and carrots).

. . . think bathtime with big brothers is just the BEST. You squeal with delight, feel like SUCH a big boy and give us an earful when it's time to get out.

. . . speaking of earfuls, you have certainly found your voice and oh man, do you let us know when you're less than thrilled
(i.e. when we have to take something not-so-baby-safe out of your grip).

. . are still nursing around 3-4 times a day. Come Friday, we'll be trying out whole milk for the first time to see what you think.

. . . say "da-da-da" and "mama." Joy to our hearts, little one.

. . . just started giving kisses when we ask. So SO sweet. Love it! You have also figured out how to blow raspberries on our tummies. If you see bare skin peeking out, you come charging over as fast as your hands and knees will move you . . . mouth wide open and drool dripping.
It's a good time for all. :)

. . . get a kick out of sitting up tall on your knees, raising your arms up sky high and then crashing down onto anyone that lays on the floor. Baby pouncing, if you will. If we're on your level, we are fair game for a good bopping.

. . . are just beginning to learn the word "no." You usually respond with sad eyes and a sweet little whimper. It's pretty stinkin' cute (commence the wrapping around mom's little finger).

. . . LOVE peek-a-boo (you'll even cover your eyes with a blanket and play along).

. . . laugh SO big when Noah makes faces at you or Daddy tickles you. You, little one, are super ticklish.

. . . are still a super duper car seat trooper. You still fit into your infant car seat just right, so it'll be a few more months before you make the leap to a regular carseat.

. . . are on the go NON-STOP. Crawling EVERYWHERE, booking it up the stairs at Mach speed (with mom right behind you), walking along furniture. You play hard and you crash hard, too, taking a really great morning and afternoon nap (praise the Lord).

. . . snuggle up on mama's shoulder at bed time just as soon as I start singing Nana's songs. Once you're in your crib, it's usually a minute or so of fussing, then you wiggle into position (on your tummy with your tush in the air) and you're out light.

. . .

Back on Friday to celebrate our little prince's 1st birthday--AH!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T21:41:00.001-06:00

How does your garden grow . . .

2011-09-19T11:17:00.000-06:00

One of the things that sold us on our new place was the prospect of planting a big garden. I had tried my hand at planting a few things in the past, but I never had the chance to see any fruit from my efforts. With abundant sunshine and lots of stretching room, we decided this was our year to get started. We began our garden from scratch and boy, have we LOVED watching things change and flourish over the past few months (and I adored documenting it along the way).

Getting started . . .

The start of new life . . .

Digging time . . .

Adam working hard to get our garden ready while the boys take a little ice cream break. :)

Ice cream all around!

Planting time . . .

Baby Emmitt, taking it all in.

Watching it grow . . ."Then God said, 'Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.' And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good." -Genesis 1:11-12

Harvesting time! Woohoo!

The boys could not WAIT to start picking things. Every time we sat down to eat each new thing, I reminded them, "You and God grew that."

They've never been more interested in vegetables in their lives. :)

What a treat to watch things grow.

It was a learning year for us, and despite a few critters (and a ton of pesky Squash Bugs), we were able to pick a pretty good amount of lettuce, carrots, sweet peas, cucumbers, green beans and corn. Noah and Mason took such pride in the things they planted and we all triumphed as little green leaves broke through the soil and turned into things we recognized. :) I think our favorite was the carrots--we never knew they could taste SO great going straight from the soil to our plates. Love. Our pumpkins are getting plumper and more orange as each day passes . . . super excited for our boys to have their beloved pumpkins this year from our little garden. What a fun adventure this has been. Excited to see what next year's garden will grow!

I always thought they were brown . . .

2011-09-19T09:59:00.000-06:00

When I was a little girl my dad use to tell me I had brown eyes.
"Chocolate kisses," he would say.
It was special to me and growing up, I clung to that phrase as part of what made me, me.

My older sister always had the beautiful blues,
my younger sis had gorgeous greens
and I . . .
I was the brown eyed girl. Or so I thought.

For the past few years, I have listened to Adam and my little boys tell me that my eyes are more green than anything. No no no, I would tell them. Chocolate kisses. Brown eyed girl. I had been looking back at those eyes in the mirror for 2 decades. Surely they were mistaken.

As we were teaching our boys about colors, I remember asking them to go around to each family member and tell me what color eyes they had.
Adam = AH-mazing blue
Noah = glorious green
Mason = Daddy's baby blues
Emmitt = undecided just yet, but we'll say bluish
When it was my turn, I always leaned forward, opened my eyes really wide and waited for their answer. And when it came (always green, never brown) I just assumed they were still learning.

I remember one tired, tired day my Noah was sitting on my lap, giggling as he practiced Eskimo kisses. He paused for a moment, took a long look at his mama's eyes and said, "Mama, today your eyes are mostly . . . white with, like, wiggling red lines all over." :)

As I started digging through my pictures from a birthday party a few weekends back, I stumbled upon this one that Adam had snapped of me.

Silly me.

Ok, boys . . . you were right all these years.

Green eyes it is.

And I always thought they were brown . . .

J x 5

2011-09-14T10:01:00.001-06:00

This is my niece, JoriLynn.

I could look into those eyes all day.

This girl holds a special piece of Aunt Risa's heart.

She loves to sing with her itty bitty little person voice,

gives the sweetest kisses,

adores her big sister, Juju,

and this coming March,

Miss Jori will become a big sister for the first time, too.

Mason to Aunt Jenny on the phone:

"You have a BABY in your tummy?!?"

{big grin}

"Aunt Jenny, can you make a boy this time?

'Cause there's an awful lot of ladies in your family."

Girl or boy, we can't wait to meet the newest J babe.

Big HUGE congratulations, Jen, Jeff, Juju and Jori!

emmitt {ten months}

2011-09-14T09:56:00.000-06:00

It's been a whirlwind of a month (or two), so Emmitt's updates are waaay past due.

I failed to make a little 10 month onesie (GASP!), however I did take these pictures of our growing boy in his adorable crab p.j.'s right around his 10 month mark, so they are going to sit in for this update. We are getting ready to celebrate E's 1st birthday in just a couple of weeks--EEK!! Here's a quick fill in for what our boy was up to at 10 months:

Sweet boy,

at TEN months you . . .

. . . weigh in at 19.4 pounds and still fit just right in your infant car seat.

. . . wear 9-12 month clothes and size 2 diapers.

. . . are evening things out with those sharp chompers, adding tooth #3 to the top for a grand total of seven.

. . . had your 1st & 2nd fever--both with teething. SO sad to see you feel so crummy!

. . . crawl into the kitchen saying "ma ma ma" in my direction, though we're not sure if you've connected the word with the person just yet.

. . . gasp with excitement when you see your brothers coming. Legs kicking, arms a-flailing and BIG gasps followed up by squeaky high squeals. There's no denying...you LOVE your big bros, and the feeling is definitely mutual.

. . . have figured out the throw-the-cup/toy-on-the-floor game--throw, wait for reaction, laugh hysterically, repeat. This is a big hit at home, the store, the middle of church. The game has no bounds. :)

. . . are just figuring out how to take sips of water from a cup. This month you learned how to suck water from straw and got a bright, shiny new cup to practice with.

. . . will shovel in just about any finger food these days, though bananas, cheddar cheese, cheerios and veggie puffs seem to be your faves. You DESPISE having your face/hands wiped. Worst part of your day.

. . . are sporting some c-r-a-z-y long hair (especially on top). No choppity chop until your 1st birthday, per tradition, but we enjoy lots of bathtime mohawks.

. . . are still walking along furniture, walls, people's legs--anything you can hold onto. You have even gone as far as to stand for a few seconds alone, only to plop down and take off crawling (at mach speed, no less) on your hands and knees.

. . . get a kick out of double-fisting toys as you crawl (usually some sort of ball in one hand and a spoon in the other).

. . . continue to nurse 4-ish times a day, and were sleeping though the night until those stinkin' teeth popped up. Poor, sweet boy.

. . . are attempting to wave, though it's turning out to be more of a whack-whoever-is-holding-you

type of motion.

. . . tried riding on Dad's back in the Ergo and decided you were a fan. You like the stroller in small doses--cruising on the floor is your first pick.

. . . sleeps on your tummy with your bum up in the air and frog legs tucked up underneath. It is A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E.

________________________

11 month update to come next!

Long Time No Post

2011-09-10T00:57:00.000-06:00

Well, guys . . . it's been a while! A whole month, actually.

I didn't fall off the face of the Earth, run out of words or pictures.

I just needed a little "figuring out" time.

One of the things that fills me up as a woman/mama/wife is taking pictures of my family. My heart swells at the chance to catch super special moments, candid belly laughs and big [and little] firsts on camera. My hope from the beginning was that my boys would look back many years from now and be grateful that they have snapshots of their childhood. I was anxious to have pictures that would help us both remember what made them tick, what made them excited and what filled them up as they grew.

Here's the thing, though: my little boys miss out on having their mama be a PART of those memories, rather than just standing by with her trusty Canon ready to capture as they experience it all. It makes them sad, which in turn, makes this mama's heart hurt, too.

Behind the camera is right there in my comfort zone, so as Adam says, "Hop on in this shot!" I usually come back with, "Well, I didn't really do my hair today . . ." or "I don't have any make-up on" or "Catch me when I'm 5-10 pounds down . . . I don't want to remember me like this." As I was wading through the piles of pictures on my computer one night, my heart sank at the idea of my boys looking back at all of these pictures--these memories--and thinking,

"I wonder where mom was for all of this?"

As much as I love documenting the everyday stuff, most days my little men are SO over mom taking yet another picture. The saddest part? I lost count of the times I reached for my camera and thought, "Well, this would make a really sweet blog post." Often times, behind the scenes, those smiles from my little men came with much too much pleading and prompting from this mama. Kind of sucked the fun right out of whatever we were doing in the first place.

I am on year three of writing and posting to my little space here, and I'm embarrassed to admit that for a while, I lost sight of why I was taking pictures and sharing stories in the first place. When other women's families, homes and photos are at your fingertips, it's easy to spend more time reading about (and comparing to) other people's lives than being present in your own. I am certainly guilty of giving in to the tug on my attention and the allure of the "really cool photo/post op." But my children . . . well, they deserve SO much better from their mama.

What does it matter if I documented our lives together

if those moments were captured but not fully lived?

After taking a look at where I was placing my attention/joy/time, I ended up taking a little impromptu blog + photo fast. I jotted down precious moments and quotes that I wanted to be sure to remember, and grabbed my camera on some of the big days (like Noah and Mason's first day of school, harvest time for our little garden and my hubby's 10 year high school reunion), but I made sure that when I picked up my camera, my intentions were in order. And while I didn't photograph every little thing, I think I got a more focused shot of the bigger picture.

With fresh eyes, a readjusted perspective, new stories + pictures, and a heavy heap of hard heart work to share from the past month, it's time to dust things off and catch up.

iPlunge

2011-08-10T10:34:00.000-06:00

I present to you . . . the iPlunge.

I found this gadget at a little boutique shop called Bop to Tottom in New York last month,

and decided to pick it up for my hubby.

It's all tiny and cute (and totally appealing because it's not meant for typical plunger duties).

It is suppose to be used like this:

It is, however, quite versatile.

Other, equally awesome, uses include this:

And this:

And also this:

And (if you're feeling adventurous) sometimes this:

WARNING: For photo purpose only.
Not intended for small person use without the close supervision of Mom, Dad
and two squirmy big brothers.

Three little boys (four, counting the one with the beard) +

one little red plunger.

And all that's left are curious red suction circles.

Happy Birthday, Adam!!

2011-07-29T14:32:00.003-06:00

Today is my sweet hubby's 28th Birthday.

We are so thankful for the man that he is [SUCH a good man].

Grateful we get to call him ours.

In honor of his 28 years here on Earth,

the boys and I have come up with a little list

of the top 28 reasons why we LOVE our guy.

1. You make us laugh. We love your silly voices, funny nicknames and made up words.
You are one good Scubbie Woobis. :)

2. You are a present and active father. There is no job too big (or too small) when it comes to caring for our boys. I SO appreciate how involved you are with our little men and how willing you are to help.

3. Your glasses are cool (that one is from the Noah, though I totally agree).

4. You are a master of surprises and thrive on making us feel so very loved. I love how you can't ever wait for the big day before giving us something special you have picked out.

5. You're hot.

There's just no getting around this one. Truth is truth, baby.

6. You are willing to get your hands dirty (but you clean up so nice, too!). We love that you're not afraid to tackle something new. You and Google get it done!

7. You work so hard to provide for our family, faithfully and without grumbling.

9. You lead our family and don't take the task of raising our sons lightly.

Noah, Mason and Emmitt will be good men because YOU are a good man.

10. You take our boys on adventures. Whether to the mountains for 4-wheeling, camping and hiking fun, or just right outside our front door for ice cream and a lesson in fixing a car--Noah and Mason CHERISH these times, Adam. This is what memories are made of.

11. Your blue eyes. Oh, how I love those baby blues. They are home.

12. You care for others and have a heart for the hurting. You do this so well.
I am a better woman because I am your wife.

13. You are a leader in our community and you desire to leave it better than when we arrived.

14. Your laugh--when something is REALLY fun--gets to me every time. I can't help but smile when something has caught you off guard and made you laugh. It's good for my soul.

15. You can make conversation with a-n-y-o-n-e. When you talk, you give your full, genuine attention.

16. You are an expert Lego builder. Seriously. There is nothing that you can't create out of those Lego bricks, tiny gears and little black wheels. You could probably quit your day job and go pro if you want. I'd be down with that.

17. You are a good dad because you give treats (straight from mouths of the Noah & the Mason). :)

18. You are passionate about exploring the beautiful things God created around our home. Your excitement just to be outside discovering new parts of our state makes me smile. I love how at home you feel atop a 14,000 foot summit. You amaze me.

19. You are a problem solver, a fixer and a mender. You have the ability of seeing past the impossible/overwhelming/hopeless to see the solution.

20. You never fail to make me feel worthy, beautiful and loved.
Every. Single. Day.

21. You love your parents.

You love my parents, my sisters and their families.
You're a peacemaker.

22. You jump to care for our Emmitt when he cries out in the middle of the night. He takes refuge in his Daddy's arms and knows he is loved.

23. Your kisses. Those lips, oh man. I knew after our first kiss that I wanted to kiss those lips for the rest of my life.

24. You are a thinker, a dreamer and a doer. I love how you love to learn, aren't afraid to dream and can put things into action.

25. You are a giver of grace and love us even when we're the most unlovable.

26. You are in our marriage for life, and you fight for us.
7 years, 5 pregnancies, 4 births, 1 death, 2 houses, countless tears, belly laughs & kisses later and I still can't believe that you chose me . . . and that you continue to choose me.

27. You are constant encourager. You build us up, believe in us and cheer us on. This is HUGE.

28. You love God and you love us. We could not ask for more.

Happy Birthday, AJM.

WE LOVE YOU!

His Eyes

2011-07-27T01:02:00.002-06:00

Oh, the life that lies behind those little eyes.

Beyond the shining hazel hue is
the sweet soul of the firstborn son that I adore.

You are your mother's child, my Noah.
I can see bits of me in you.
My deep thinker, heart feeler, memory keeper.

So much life already taken in.
The Lord has great plans for the life that lies
behind those little eyes.

. . .

"Open my eyes so that I can see the wonderful truths in your law."
-Psalm 119:18

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know
the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in
his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe."
-Ephesians 1:18-19

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has known
what God has prepared for those who love him."
-1 Corinthians 2:9

emmitt {9 months}

2011-07-25T00:33:00.002-06:00

At 9 months you . . .

. . . are SUPER mobile and there's no slowing you down! You are sitting up, crawling on all fours, pulling yourself up to a stand, holding on to furniture with one hand, and climbing.

Ain't no mountain [of clothes/toys/brothers] high enough, baby!

. . . are making lots of ga, ba and ma sounds. Pretty stinkin' cute to listen to you babble to yourself, your toys and your Daddy. Love.

. . . sit down with us at our regular meal times and will usually polish off 1/2 a jar of baby food at each meal. You are not super picky at this point and will chow down on just about anything on a spoon. You have tried most of the basic fruit and veggie combos, as well as finger foods like cheddar cheese, bagels, toast, mum mums, cheerios and some smallish chunks of super ripe fruit.

. . . are SUPER curious and are definitely keeping us all on our toes!

You enjoy a good book, and by enjoy I mean chew on/rip out/try to eat,

and by book I mean all things paper (i.e. big brothers' paperbacks, art projects, coloring books and mom's/dad's magazines). You're a sneaky little fellow and have already left your "mark" on a few favorites before we can rescue them from your grip.

It'll be board books and teething toys for you for a bit longer, little one.

Also, you are learning (but not loving) the word "no." :)

. . . take a pretty good morning and afternoon nap in your crib (so long as big brothers don't get too rowdy down the hall), and are sleeping pretty well through the night. Hallelujah!

. . . have a total of 5 teeth so far--2 top front and 3 on the bottom, all super sharp (trust me)!

. . . took your first dip in the pool! You weren't the biggest fan of the regular pool but LOVED the heated one! All smiles and BIG splashes once you warmed up. So fun!

. . . are sportin' 9-12 month duds (and 12-18 month hats to accommodate that big, sweet noggin').

. . . nurse about 4 times a day--still a precious time for both you and mommy.

{Speaking of nursing . . . }

Noah on the phone with my sister, Jen:

Noah: Hi Aunt Jenny!

Jen: Hey Noah! What are you up to?

Noah: Just hanging out with Mommy. She's milking Emmitt.

. . . weighed in at 18 pounds 15 ounces at your 9 month check, dropping down a tier to the 25% for weight and holding steady at the 50% for height and 90% for your head.

. . . are still loving your Ergo carrier, do great in your car seat and like cruising in your stroller.

. . . have begun to grip, knead and pinch anything you can squeeze (i.e. arms, tummies, legs, faces, etc.). For such a little guy, your hands are [painfully] strong!! Yikes!

. . . had your 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th airplane rides! You were SUCH a trooper on each flight (CO to TX to NY and then back again). Everyone sitting around us said how sweet you were and many commented that you were so quiet, they didn't even know there was a baby on the plane!

. . . had the chance to meet 22 new family members during your first big trip to our family reunion in New York (6 of Mom's aunts, 2 uncles and 14 cousins to be exact). Yay family!!

Precious boy, Mama can't believe how fast these past 9 (almost 10!) months have flown by.

We love you SO much and are so grateful for the joy your bring to our family!

Father's Day and FIBArk

2011-07-11T22:37:00.002-06:00

Father's Day this year landed on the same weekend as the annual whitewater festival called FIBArk (First in Boating on the Arkansas River). The festival takes place in the little town near Adam's parents' house, so we packed up our family and headed their way to celebrate two wonderful fathers and take in the sights at the festival. We kicked off the morning with the parade. Noah and Mason jumped at the chance to ride on a float their Granny worked to put together for their community garden. While we waited for the Granny and the boys to circle back around, Adam, his dad, Emmitt and I decided to stroll down a few blocks to the local farmers' market. After lunch, we headed to the festival, which was full of booths, junk food, live music, and of course, whitewater rafting. We all grabbed some ice cream and found a spot along the river to watch the Hooligan Race, where teams make their way down the river on floats they've put together themselves. Some of them were pretty funny (air mattress, milk cartons, barrels, swimming pools) and the boys had a blast watching from the sidelines. Thankful for these two good men and the fathers/grandfather they are. So very blessed.

We love you both dearly!!!

His First Fourth

2011-07-11T15:43:00.000-06:00

The 4th of July has become one of my favorite Summer occasions. I love how little ones make holidays that much sweeter to celebrate. This year we were grateful to catch up with a bunch of friends at a little impromptu b-b-q yard party at our place. Tasty food, water fights, wonderful company and lots of little feet running around--pretty great! We ended the night spread out on the front lawn with blankets, sleeping bags, s'mores and fireworks.

Good times, indeed!

Hope you all had a fantastic, safe fourth!

Getting My Feet Wet

2011-07-10T12:01:00.002-06:00

Noah and Mason finished up their swimming lessons last week. The boys were SUPER excited for their final day to come because their teachers told them that parents are allowed to hop in the pool with them for the last part of their lesson. With each boy in separate, simultaneous classes, Adam and I both came ready in our swimsuits (Emmitt was sportin' his cutie patootie bottom in a pair of fun swim trunks, too). Still struggling to feel comfortable in my own skin (more on that here), I secretly hoped that the timing would work out for Adam to jump into the big pool with both boys and I could hang with Emmitt and my trusty camera on the sidelines (clothed in the safety and security of my swimsuit cover up). Adam had already been called over to join Mason's class in the outside pool, so Emmitt and I stayed to watch our Noah inside. As the instructor finally gave them the go-ahead, Noah looked up at me at the edge of the pool with the BIGGEST grin as he waved me in. It was sink or swim time. As much as I panicked at the thought of being exposed and vulnerable, I relished in that little boy's grin and reminded myself of these words:

"Comparison is the thief of joy."

Our time in the pool turned out to be some of my favorite moments with my little ones this summer.

Swim with my babies: CHECK, CHECK and CHECK.

Tonight

2011-07-09T00:08:00.000-06:00

Feeling sick tonight.

Heartsick.

Homesick.

I miss her.

Oh, Maggie, mommy misses you, sweet girl.

I miss that overflowing joy that came with preparing for and dreaming of our life with her.

I drive myself mad wondering what she might have looked like

at 1 month old, 6 months old, 1 year, 10 years . . . . . 16 . . . . . 20. Her wedding day.

Lord, I don't get it . . . and it hurts. SO. BADLY.

It feels a little bit hopeless sometimes.

A little bit frantic.

A little bit lonely.

A whole lot broken and incomplete.

The only other she in "us" was her.

I don't know if that part will ever get any easier to take.

Two years and I am still appalled that she won't ever be here with us.

Sleep eludes me.

I miss snuggling next to Emmitt each night as I turn in for bed.

He sleeps a few feet away in a room and bed of his own now.

When Noah was born, we were new, unsure and learned as we went.

By the time Mason arrived, we settled quickly into the comfort and familiarity

of having been there and done that once.

Then our Maggie died.

On my watch.

Inside of me.

And everything changed.

Emmitt was born and things that once seemed so important no longer held any weight.

The thought of losing another child sent me into a tailspin of panic and fear.

I could not bear to lay him down as he slept,

the image of Maggie etched in the forefront of my mind.

Eyes closed. Tiny lips parted. So, so still. As if she were just sleeping.

For eight months, Emmitt spent his nights sleeping soundly in the crook of my arm,

breathing in and out alongside of me as I soaked up his warmth and sweet heart beating.

My arms ache for him in a sad, unsettling kind of way.

He is thriving and learning so much as he conquers small but important victories of independence.

Each day, he is growing a little more . . . needing me a little less.

It kind of fills and breaks my heart all at the same time.

Feeling sick in the pit of my stomach tonight.

A lost, frantic she-is-There-and-I-am-here,

time marching on and taking my boys with it,

world spinning faster than I can catch my breath sort of sick.

God is still working on this heart of mine.

There is still much mending to be done.

Life-long mending.

Stitching and re-stitching of places that continue to unravel in me.

Waiting for the careful Tailor to repair what has come undone

and fashion this life for the purpose He has created it for.

"Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails.
Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.
Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you.
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

For your name’s sake, O LORD, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.
In your unfailing love, silence my enemies; destroy all my foes, for I am your servant."

-Psalm 143:7-12

Summer Checklist: Swimming Lessons

2011-07-07T12:10:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T12:31:00.000-06:00

emmitt {eight months}

2011-06-25T00:25:00.001-06:00

A week shy of 9 months and here we are with your 8 month update . . . YIKES, Mama.

You act like it's crazy summer break at home with three little boys or something. Sheesh. A little punctuality, please. Let's hope for a more timely update next month. :)

At 8 months you . . .

. . . can sit up unassisted for a few minutes before you come toppling back down (even longer when there is a nice pile of toys in front of you). You get stronger and stay upright a bit longer each day.

. . . are still on constant cruise mode, utilizing the army crawl with a little push up/rocking action on your hands and knees. You're keeping your Mama on her toes as you explore every last inch of the downstairs, making laps around the living room and kitchen at lightning speed.

. . . are finally warming up to solids. You LOVE munching away on your teething biscuits, Mum Mums and fruit puffs, and are actually opening your mouth for the spoon (as opposed to the "sneak attack" method, which involved big bros and Daddy making you crack up enough to open your chompers and scoop a spoonful in). Your favorites this month: green beans + rice, plums + apples, oatmeal + cinnamon + apples, and orange veggies (carrots, pumpkin & sweet potatoes). A big NO THANK YOU to bananas, peaches or apricots.

. . . have made the big move and officially sleep in your crib (more on that, along with a tour of Baby E's nursery, in a future post). It's been a l-o-n-g couple of weeks, but once you finally make your way to dreamland, you snooze away in your crib until sun up. Definitely a bittersweet but necessary transition that brought some tears (for both you and Mama), a pretty good dose of anxiety, and LOTS of extra kisses and cuddles throughout the day. Mama continues to remind herself that Jesus is taking care of you whether you're right next to her or snoozing in your own bed.

. . . are starting to say "ba-ba-ba" when your big brothers come in close for a snuggle/tickle/kiss. You think the sun rises and sets on these two little boys, and it makes their day when you chat with them!

. . . have muttered "ma-ma-ma" a few times. Even though you probably didn't know what you were saying, your ma-ma-ma was soaking it up!

. . . weigh in at 18.5 pounds and fit nicely into 9-12 month clothes. Hooray for summer shorts and rollie pollie legs! :)

. . . had your first ride in the swing and LOVED it (probably because of the sweet big brother that was pushing you--precious pics in this post).

. . . have turned into a little climber--yikes!! You have been known to crawl over to our stairs and prop yourself up to a stand, resting your belly on the first and second step. That's as far as you go for now (thank goodness!) but we're getting ready to break out the baby gate and wait for you to bust out a wee rendition of "Don't Fence Me In."

. . . have also figured out how to pull yourself up using the railing of your crib and the bottom rung of the kitchen chairs. Sometimes you stand up for a second (and consequently get stuck and very sad), and other times you're just pleased as punch to plop down and sit on your little feet.

. . . think it's pretty fun to make a lot of new noises and silly sounds, including a growl (and on some occasions, growl-cry combo). It's very baby tiger-esque and gives us all a laugh when you start growling out of nowhere.

. . . are SUPER ticklish and love a good game of airplane on Mom or Dad's knees. You belly laughs are contagious.

. . . love when big brother Mason sings Kumbaya (or as he sings it, "Come-by-eye"), especially if you're having a rough go in the car.

. . . are still rocking (and LOVING) the Ergo carrier. You'll hang in the stroller for short trips around the block and are a super easy car seat traveler so long as the sun is shining and you've got a comfy tum/bum.

. . . continue to taste test anything within your grasp. Lots of drool and chewing happening around here. You are still teething like crazy, adding another tooth to the bottom row (for a grand total of 3 tiny pearly whites), and are working on your two front top teeth.

. . . are the most easy going babe we've ever met! Unless you're super duper tired or working on some new teeth, you are the happiest, most relaxed little dude. You make our job so easy, Baby E.

We love you so very much, little one.

Can't believe how fast you are growing and learning each and every month.

You bring SUCH joy to our family!

Every Prince Needs a Crown

2011-06-23T21:59:00.012-06:00

My Mason is all about playing dress up right now.

Remember this pic where he sported his Jack of all trades getup?

A cape transforms him into a superhero, a cargo vest into an animal rescuer, a hat into a fireman, a sword into a knight and crepe paper streamers into a ninja
[oh yeah. think spring break + stir crazy little boys + leftover party decorations].
You name it, he wears it.
Life is anything but dull with this little man around.

Lately, one of the hot topics of conversations with Mason revolves around growing up. When the activity requires just a few more years under his little belt, the answer to one of his requests is "no" or the time calls for bed, we often hear,

"I just want to be a grown up so I can do whatever I want!"

Hmmph! Arms crossed. Bottom lip sticking out a mile.
Good times, I tell you.

We have tried to explain to our Mason that even grown ups have to follow rules, but he is just convinced that being an adult [more specifically, a mommy or daddy] equals total and complete freedom. Cookies for dinner, never going to bed, ripping down the road at mach speed, buying anything our arms can gather up in a store . . . our boy thinks these liberties are a given once you have grown tall enough to hop in, buckle up, and ride adulthood. If you ask him what he wants to be when he grows up, the answer is a king. Some days he is a bit more specific . . . "King of the Police" seems to be a favorite for some time now.
(Uncle John, pretty sure you would be a real life superhero in his book!)
I was chatting with him one day about being a child of God. I explained that as a son of the King of Kings, he is already a prince. "Cool, huh Mason?!?" No dice. It seems "King of the Police" is far more appealing in his 4-year-old mind.

Much like Mason, I could not wait to grow up when I was a little girl.
For me, being "grown up" meant that I could finally be a mother, and there was NOTHING I wanted more. I did not know where I would want to live, who my prince charming would turn out to be, or what I would encounter along the way, but deep, deep in my heart, I yearned to be a mother. I spent my childhood and adolescence preparing. Somewhere in between, I graduated from baby dolls to babysitting. I played and pretended, I practiced, I nannied and nurtured, I practiced, I took notes and took classes, I practiced. When it finally came time for me to step into that precious role of Mama, my dress rehearsal left me feeling so ill-prepared for the live show.
Who would have thought that motherhood would be so
stressful
terrifying
rewarding
HARD
satisfying
frustrating
life-giving
life-draining
overwhelmingly wonderful
when the little ones you care for are yours for a lifetime instead of just a few hours? :)
Certainly not that little girl who lived and breathed all things baby. As I stood at the boys' swimming lessons last evening holding my wiggling little baby on my hip, I was taken back to the days where I toted my Cabbage Patch Water Baby to the pool one summer. I played mommy and waited with SUCH excitement and anticipation for the day I would get to do it for real. At 8 months old, I have yet to take my littlest guy for his first dip in the pool. Truth be told, I'm just not comfortable enough in my own post-baby skin and I cringe at the thought of donning a swimsuit for all to see. As I stood there snuggling my sweet Emmitt, I tried to imagine what motherhood would look like for me if I could once again tap into that pure joy and contentment of just being Mommy--without the drama, stress and struggle of being a grown up woman. It seems I could take a lesson from my 4-year-old self about the important privileges I get to enjoy as an grown up.

Despite his wishes and pleas, I cannot grow my Mason up QUICKER any more than I can grow him up SLOWER. If it were up to me, I would pause this time for just a bit because I know how fast today will become yesterday and how quickly little people become grown up people. What I can do is make his time as a little boy a bit more sweet, full and adventurous. Given his love for dress up, and my love for three dear little princes, I decided to make our boys some fun crowns to add their pretend play wardrobe.

It took me the better part of an evening (and by evening, I mean middle of the night) a few weeks ago when my hubby was out of town on a business trip. As soon as the boys woke up, I propped my eyelids open and proudly presented them with their little crowns.

Emmitt . . . not such a fan of dress up just yet, but thoroughly entertained by his crazy big bros.

I LOVE these three little people.  My princes.

I dreamed of you long before you came to be, my loves.

So blessed to be your Mama!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T08:09:00.000-06:00

Bugs, Bubbles, Bear Hugs & Brotherhood

2011-06-20T11:38:00.001-06:00

As we finished up the school year the last week of May, we decided to head over the mountains and usher in Summer Break at my sister's house. After much [much] packing, I loaded up my three little men and headed off to Denver (our dear daddy had to sit this trip out because of a few work commitments and was greatly missed). Unbeknownst to them, the boys' trip was about to get a WHOLE lot sweeter when they arrived to be greeted by Aunt Jenny, cousins Juju and Jori, AND NANA!! Surprise!! As of a year ago, my mama took a job teaching diabetes education in many of the small villages across Alaska. We are so proud of the work she has been doing and difference she is making, but after eight l-o-n-g months (she was able to be here after Emmitt was born) a reunion was long overdue! The boys had been such troopers for the 5+ hour drive, PLUS they were on excitement overload with all these girls they love together in one place. After a couple rounds of bear hugs (and a few tears) we let the little ones loose in my sister's backyard. It was a bit drizzly outside, but no one seemed to mind. We broke out the bubbles I had packed and soaked up the belly laughs and ear-to-ear grins that followed. During our visit, we hit up the park, the zoo and the Children's Museum, but I think our favorite part was adventures in Jen's backyard.

This is my niece, Julia. She loves her some "Rollie Ollies" . . . so much so that one day my sister discovered a whole pile of them crawling around inside Juju's little pink backpack--tucked away in her bedroom upstairs. :) Love you, Juju Bee.

The next day . . . sunny + warm = park time!

Two beauties. My sweet sister and her youngest, Miss Jori. Love these girls.

Soaking up precious Nana time with a sleepy Baby Emmitt.

Digging for worms. :)

"You found one! Cool! Oh, no no, don't touch mommy with the worm. That's ok, really, you hold it."

Emmitt's first time in the swing!!

"Uhhh . . . now what?"

Big brother Noah to the rescue!!!

LOVE the way these two love each other.

My cup runneth over. What a gift brotherhood is.

Annnnd, in black in white . . . for good measure. :)

Incredibly grateful that I get to do life with these people that I love,

and that love all of me . . . the good, the bad and the ugly.

SO very blessed.

My Sweet Jen,
Thanks so much for having us, Sister Sue!
So grateful that our little ones enjoy each other
and have figured out what great friends cousins make!
Excited to watch our families grow up together.
Love and miss you already.
BIG squeezes to our girls from Aunt Ris.

My Dear Mama,

You are so missed and loved so deeply.

Thank you for making the trip to come visit all of us--
you made our boys' summer.

Until next time we see you,

sending giant hugs, dinosaur kisses, baby snuggles

and all our love your way.

Rainbows and butterflies,

Miska

Denver Children's Museum

2011-06-20T11:37:00.001-06:00

The Denver Children's Museum was one of the fun stops we made during our visit to my sister's house in May. SUCH a neat place! We got there about an hour before they closed, which was a bit of poor planning on our part and a bummer because we could have stayed there all day! Even though our time was short, the kids LOVED every minute. A real firetruck to explore (complete with dress-up attire), a kid-sized grocery store (umm, yes please!), a workshop just for little ones, and an ENTIRE bubble room (and those were just the things we got to cover in our brief time there). Super fun and definitely a place we'll be returning to on our next trip to Denver!

Here are some of our favorite moments:

{i heart faces} photo challenge | let's hear it for the boys

2011-06-20T10:48:00.004-06:00

This week's iheartfaces photo challenge is all about the boys. LOVE!

This picture was taken of our little men this past January (when baby E was only 3.5 months old). The rest of the set from this day can be found over on this Wordless Wednesday post. Hooray for celebrating little boys!

. . .

"Check please!"

Trip to the Zoo a.k.a. Cotton Candy Land

2011-06-17T20:48:00.004-06:00

When the boys and I were in Denver visiting my older sister and my mama last month, we had the chance to take the kiddos to the zoo. Although it wasn't their first trip to the zoo, they were all squeaky-excited the day of our visit. I figured they were just really enthusiastic about seeing our furry friends again, but I later learned that the REAL excitement stemmed from a little concession stand heads up from pro zoo-goer, cousin Juju:

THEY HAVE COTTON CANDY.

Two minutes in the gate and we were on a mission to find the messy, orange sugar fluff. My mom, sister and I tried to redirect their attention along the way ("Ooooh, look at the 'Wild Horses' exhibit, kids! What's that you say?? We can see horses back at home on the way to the grocery store? What's that? Wild horses in cage at the zoo seems a bit contradictory?").

We weaved through the zoo peeking in at our favorites (the giraffes, penguins, lions, elephants and monkeys), stopping at the nearest concessions stand for a little break and special treat. All I can say is, thank goodness for baby wipes. :)

Here are some pictures of our adventure:

{cotton candy break}

{Mason showing Nana how silly Dolly the elephant was crossing her legs}

{my beautiful sis and mama}

*LOVE*