"Preschool"

We have started preschool. It seems like yesterday Charis was a tiny baby and our day revolved around mashed bananas, poopie diapers and naptime. Light up toys, stackable blocks, and squeeky things were the extent of her "activities". Now, we are experiencing the joy of interacting with her, and teaching her (real) things. Like scripture, letters and numbers, days of the week, how to share, art and crafts, how to cook and clean...and the list goes on and on. There is nothing more precious to me than teaching my daughter, and watching her face light up when she learns something new! These moments are priceless!

We have started a little preschool club with a couple other families, and it has been a blast! Each Monday we rotate who hosts preschool that day and that mom in in charge of the lesson. The girls have absolutely LOVED it! Charis has quickly learned her days of the week- because she always wants to know "how many more days til Monday".

Today we hosted and I taught the book Blueberries for Sal, by Robert McCloskey. The girls had so much fun "picking blueberries" in the backyard, playing a blueberry counting game...and we even made HOMEMADE Blueberry jam for everyone to take home. It was a hit. The girls had a blast.

A few weeks ago we read Katy No Pocket. That was a real treat. It's about a mommy Kangaroo who has no pocket to carry her baby in so she goes to all these other animals to see how they carry their babies. Finally a (kind) man GIVES her his apron that is full of pockets, so she is able to carry not only her baby but lots of other babies in the forest. Yep- you guessed it- WE MADE APRONS!! It was so cute.

Though these lessons have been cute and creative, my favorite part has been walking the girls through conflict, helping them learn to consider others first, how to communicate respectfully, and even how to pray about all things. I heard them today "encouraging" eachother with words like "you can do it" and " do you need my help". My heart jumps for joy to see these 3 year olds blossoming!

Funny Story and 40 day goal!

So, since this (blog) is intended to be a family record for us and a way to keep in touch with you- I couldnt help but write about this funny story! So, as you have noticed I haven't blogged in several months- due to a broken computer. I kept putting off getting it fixed, just thinking it would cost too much...Finally I took it to the computer repair shop- and that is where the funny story begins. I walk in and am greeted by the friendliest customer service rep I have prob ever met- and I begin to explain to him that it won't even turn on, I have two small children who probably broke it, blah, blah, blah. He listended well and then began to ask me a series of questions ONE being "does the charger light up when you plug it in?" I respond with, "Ummm, I'm not sure". So we go plug it in and sure enough it didn't light up- meaining IT was dead. So, we proceeded to plug in a new charger and VIOLA! You guessed it! My computer turned on. At last we were reunited and I was soo excited! It wasn't until later that I thought to myself "Duh, I probably should have checked that MONTHS ago..." Anyway...so thankfully I have a computer again and I am back to  blogging. It only cost me $8 to get a new charger on http://www.amazon.com/. 

NOW for the 40 DAY GOAL. 
Many of you know that I have had health/stomach issues since Addy Kate was born. This has led our family to some pretty serious research/learning about health, nutrition, food, etc. After a lot of research and totally reforming the way we eat, we have pretty much landed in the genre of "Clean Eating"- which basically means eating food in its original form- no boxed stuff, processed stuff...etc. Or the "caveman diet"- which means if you can kill it or pick it you can eat it. Get it :-) Anyway it has been so fun and we have felt incredible. The kids eat almost everything even snack on raw veggies! But lately I have gotten a little lax and enjoyed the "occassional treat" a little too often- and have found my stomach issues re surfacing and making me a not so happy momma! So, TODAY I started the Maker's Diet . I did it several months ago and loved it and had absolutely no issues with my digestion. So we are doing it again to kinda detox and hit the "reset" button. I will hopefully post some of our meal plans in the next 40 days ;-)
That's all for now. Will update with some pics of the girls soon!

The Meal That Changed My Life!

Have you ever sat across the table from someone that has been diagnosed with (incurable) cancer and been drawn to the radiance in their face? Have you ever listened to the thoughts and desires of someone who doesn't know how long they have to live? Have you ever listened to someone give testimony to the goodness and power of Our Great God, though He may take their (earthly) life? Have you ever walked through such a fiery trial and turned to God with an open hand? Have you ever sat in a room and listened to (your sick friend) pray these words, " My body is yours God"... Have you ever seen the kingdom of God advanced by a saint who has been given a bitter lot? Have you ever watched someone in so much pain continue to love, give, and minister to others?        I have.
Last week my dear friend (Stacey) called to ask if they could bring us a meal. Why? You may ask. I wondered the same thing! Why bring me a meal, when your husband is the one fighting this cancer and your whole world has been rocked! I dont remember the last time I saw this picture of my Sweet Savior displayed so clearly!
 A love for God that isn't shaken by the most painful circumstances!  Joy in the hope that is to come- that can't be quenched! A desire to see men and women, boys and girls, come to Jesus in faith! And a genuine care and concern for others...even in the darkest hours!
Isn't that the heart of Jesus?   I am blown away by the life and testimony of my sweet friends  Brad and Stacey Booth. I am not sure that I will ever be the same... In fact, I am sure that I never will be!
      " Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes in the morning"    -Psalm 30:5

I apologize!!

Hi everyone! First I want to apologize that I have not kept my commitment of blogging once a week.
So much has happened that has kept me from sitting down in front of the computer.

During the month of April we spent several weeks out of town. (by the way I can't wait to share our pics).
And as you all know the terrible devastation that our state suffered through the tornadoes- we were completely safe and had no damage- however we did lose power and internet. We just got back our internet within the last 2 weeks but now we have discovered that my computer charger is broken and does not work! So, you think...."well drive to a coffee shop and use Wi-Fi"...and I probably could. But we are now sharing a car and it just hasn't worked out where I could go use internet...

So, know that we will be back just as soon as some of these kinks get worked out. We are still rejoicing even in the midst of frustrating circumstances. The biggest thing that has kept our perspective is watching our dear friend Brad Booth fight cancer. At the age of 26 he was diagnosed with Desmoplastic small round cell tumor ( an extremely rare and aggressive type of cancer). I encourage all of you to take 45 minutes of your life and PLEASE watch this video. It is Brad speaking a couple weeks ago at men's retreat. Have a box of kleenex and be ready to contemplate the meaning and purpose in YOUR own life.
www.vimeo.com/brelandbooth/bradbooth.com   OR vistit his caring bridge site at
www.caringbridge.org/visit/bradbooth  

Much love to you all!

Why I haven't blogged :-)

Just want to give a quick update as to why I have not blogged in the last week. MY SWEET HUSBAND
surprised me with a cruise to Cozumel for our anniversary. (Compliments of my mother in law)!! It was a
blast being away with my man...but I am a little behind at the Home front and spending my time trying to
get things back in order :-) So, I will update with pics and more fun stuff next week.

Happy Resurrection!

The Best Is Yet To Come

                               Last week we celebrated our 4th Anniversary! It's hard to believe that it has

             already been 4 years...yet only been 4 years. So much has happened in our lives in such

             a short time. I sense the belonging (together) now, more than I ever have. I am thankful for

            those early memories in which we saw eachother through "rose colored glasses"...but with each

           year comes new challenges, seasons, adventures and trials- which have produced a deeper love.

           A love that (is beginning) to prefer the happiness of the other, over the happiness of self. A love

           that is more interested in serving than in being served. A love that says "I've got your back" without

           ever having to say a word. A love that is learning to listen...and understand rather than seeking to be

           understood. . A love that laughs so hard our stomach muscles burn like fire! A love that is deeply

           committed- not just for the sake of eachother...but for the Name and Glory of Jesus Christ! A love

           that has one heart and one vision!

          Woody,

           I am more thankful for you today than I could have ever imagined! Thank you for loving me like you

           do. Thank you for loving our babies and telling them daily how beautiful they are. Thank you for

            being so patient with me when I am hard headed. Thank you for loving God and living your life

            for Him. What an example you are for me and the girls! Thank you for teaching me things I do not

           know. Thank you for being a safe place, a refuge. Thank you for laughing at my corny jokes. Thank

           you for taking up "family" as your hobby. Thank you for having character- you are a trustworthy

           man! Thank you for being wise and making good decisions for our family. Thank you for being So-

           dang- good lookin!!! (well I guess I should thank your parents:-) Thank you for folding laundry and

           changing diapers. You are my favorite!

I look forward to growing old with you!

 

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! I LOVE YOU!

Just kinda normal

I think that we are kinda normal...Ordinary, if you will- in that we are nothing special, flashy, or

revolutionary. If you passed us on the street, you wouldn't turn your head..( Unless,

of course you noticed that I was carrying 2 babies, while talking on my cell phone, eating an

apple and frantically looking for my lost car! :-) And to be quite honest, you won't read

about us in a history book, or see pictures of us hanging in a Museum....However, we

have a deep desire to "leave a legacy"...to build a heritage. To live intentional lives

and so impact the future generations- starting with our own children. We believe

the One answer to (every) soul's quest for "happiness and purpose" is found in the One

who created us...namely, Jesus!

Here are some of our sweet (and ordinary) moments this week as a family.

Mommy holds baby....(constantly!)

Daddy holds baby....(when mommy isn't)

Baby is happy!

and even happier at Chic-fil-A

It's a birthday tradition...our babie get to

eat Chic-Fil-A on their 1st bday!

Bedtime stories with mommy

Crafts and Activities with Charis

Homemade gift for my friend...

Daddy holds big baby...

2 babies go flying...

                                                                    Laughing hysterically!

You thought I was kidding....

Mommy holds baby constantly! (and loves it)

Charis "primps" on mirror

Drinking a "green smoothie'

Look closely...ring around her face

Free snacks at Whole Foods

                                                           Yummy Gril Chk Salad...

NOT-SO- " Picture Perfect"

Sometimes it is the (Not-so) "picture perfect" moments that make me stop and realize

just how good I have it! Part of the "American Dream" is the ever growing desire

to appear as though we have it all together! When, in fact, not a single one of us

can (honestly) claim that we do...We are bombarded daily with pressure to "have the best, be the best, look the best, perform the best"

...and on and on and on.

I have found great joy in accepting the not-so-picture-perfect moments-and allowing

my Creator to teach me more about Himself, and my great need for Him! In my

desire to "have it all together"- I recognize a deeper longing. A longing to experience

perfect love, acceptance,joy, peace, worth, adoration,confidence, belonging,

     purpose... and those deep longings can not be found in anything or anyone- besides the One

who put them there...

Here are some of our "not so picture perfect"  picture perfect moments!

Hope you enjoy :-)

                                           This is my craft station...Def not like the ones in the magazine

 Charis literally DRAGGING Addy Kate to her (messy) room!

Found AK with a mo-hawk. Charis got into the lotion...

Trying to get Charis to smile...How to get people get "picture perfect" snaps

of a 2 year old!?!?

Takin pic of AK laughing- when I noticed she had CRUMBS on her face...awesome!

Ok, this is a near perfect picture of Charis!

Yes, my house often looks like this :-)

"It's all in the eyes of the beholder"...right!?

Hope you are encouraged to be thankful, look to Jesus, and take funny pictures!

Love yall!

She has my heart!

Addy Kate is turning ONE! I'm not usually a fan of "cliche" phrases...but, MAN- TIME FLIES!

It has been one year since that Saturday afternoon that we sped down 280 with our hazard lights on...

(for once, it really was like the movies!) ;-)

I remember it like it was yesterday...the excitement, the fear, the pain... and the hope of

knowing what was to come. It's amazing to experience such intense pain- yet in a split

second feel nothing but pure JOY and LOVE! At the sight of her tiny little face and the sound

of her great big cry...my heart instantly changed- as I became a mother all over again.

"BLISS"- The highest degree of happiness; to rejoice; blessedness.

This past year has been bliss (with the exception of a few really hard, not-so-happy days)...

Bliss getting to know her, and her little personality. Bliss watching her grow and explore.

Bliss watching the way she has changed our family- in countless ways. Bliss watching

Charis learn life lessons through her! Bliss experiencing such great reward in having her

and being able to mother her. Bliss in hearing her laugh, bliss in feeling her big cheeks next

to mine. Bliss in praying that God will be her refuge in this life and the life to come... Bliss in watching her

daddy absolutely smitten in love!

Addy Kate, you are such a treasure to our family. You are beautiful. You are deeply

loved. You are safe. You have purpose. You belong. You are hilarious. You

are strong. You are loved by your Maker. You are worth 10 million loads of laundry! You are so much fun! and...You have my heart!

                               

                                             HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! WE LOVE YOU!
                                                   Mommy, Daddy, and Big Sis
                                        Photos compliment of Holly Tutor. Thank you so much!

Living simple...Simple Living- It's fun!

Disclaimer: This blog exists to 1) keep our friends and family updated on

the "day to day" of our lil family, and 2) as documentation for us of the

sweet memories we are making, things we are learning, etc. ( I do plan

to print the "blog book" annually as a keepsake for our family)

SO- My point in saying that is to let you know that this is by no means

EVER intended to be a place to "show off"- or "appear" to be something

that we are not. Ha- I don't think I have said the word "show off" in years!

Anyway...my point- we are who we are :-) just trying to listen to "the voice

of Truth" and be who He has made us to be... we(people, families) are all so different-

isn't that what is so beautiful about The Lord's creation! Diversity!

God has unique plans for each of us and they too, are so different! So, we

don't have to walk around feeling "judged" or "different" or _________.

We can be confident in who the Lord has made us! And enjoy who the Lord

has made others to be as well.

Now, for the fun stuff! Here are a few snapshots of our "simple living" :-)

Need flower arrangement + tight budget = get creative
can of beans, scrapbook paper, and modge podge
Clippings from the bush in my back yard

$3.99 Spring Bouquet from Aldi ( taken apart and cut)

VIOLA! Pretty flowers on a budget!

(compliments to my friend Colleen)

SIMPLE things that make me smile...Charis wrote

the letter "A" all by herself. This photo is not staged!

Why buy a vacuum cleaner when you have

an 11 month old baby who eats everything

off the floor!! :-) I often find AK "getting her

own snack"...please don't call Child Services!

We use old baby jar lids for "paint plates"

She loves to paint outside!!

Tonight we had breakfast for dinner!

and we ate off the same plate :-)

(cheap, easy, and mess free)

Wed night we had a picnic at the park.

WE are loving the warm weather. So excited

about Spring! Oh, and when the picnic was

over all I had to do was shake the sheet :-)

I am all about "easy clean up"

Great way to spend "Hump Day"

AH! I love Thrift Store shopping. Mom and I

went on Monday....and found some treasures.

Glass plates .25 each

Vintage wall art $1 each
Old Silver butter dish $1

Red heels $3