A day in the life...

Campbell sent me an e-mail

2010-09-27T11:34:00.001-05:00

I got an e-mail that said Campbell wanted to tell me something. Awwwwwww...

Life...

2010-09-24T09:13:00.002-05:00

I don't understand how things work sometimes. I try and try and try to live my life like I am supposed to. And I know that the testing of our faith is supposed to make us stronger. I guess, today, I just don't feel like being tested. :) I am so exhausted. As much as I may like my job, I do not like being gone from my family full-time. It has pretty much sucked the life out of me. Stephen is doing a great job at home, and my work is going well. But I don't think I will ever get used to this arrangement. And I know that Stephen wants to be the one providing as well. But right now, we are doing what we have to do and taking things one day at a time. I guess the only answer is to trust God to work things out in His time and not ours. My problem is that my trust in Him and my faith is weak. Not because of Him, but because of me. Not sure how to get back to where I used to be...guess I just wanted to get these thoughts down.

UGH

2010-08-28T23:07:00.003-05:00

I had to be one of those friend tonight that had to tell someone that I loved them, but they are making some really poor decisions. They didn't want to hear what I had to say. I am not sure I wanted to say it, but I don't feel like I had a choice. My heart hurts.

Been a long time...

2010-08-28T07:43:00.002-05:00

I was reading back through my blog yesterday. I almost don't even know that person anymore. Things in my life are so incredibly different now that I don't even remember some of those feelings that I had. I have gone back to work full-time. And when I say full-time, I mean I leave my house at 6:15 and the earliest I ever get home is 5:20. Most days closer to 6. I don't know what's going on at the kids' school. I don't know what's going on with any of my friends or their kids. It's just really strange. I am very thankful for my job and the new friends I have made there, but it's just really different. Maybe Stephen will be able to find a job soon and I can come back home again, but I am not sure, even if he does find a job, that things will ever be the same.

Luke started Kindergarten this year. It is SO hard to fathom how fast these 5 years have gone by. I was looking at one of the first posts on here. Stephen had gotten me a digital camera for Mothers' Day because I had started this blog and he wanted me to be able to post pictures on here. Luke was almost a year old and the most precious littly baby boy. I almost didn't even remember that. He used to make this face where he would wrinkle his nose and it was so cute!

I also found pics of Claire's first day of school. She looks SO little!!! And I found a pic of Jordan and Luke and they looked like babies. I guess because they were :) Jordan will be 11 in December so he certainly doesn't look like a baby anymore. Campbell was about the sweetest thing you have ever seen.

So, all of that to say, I woke up today and found myself in a whole new world. It's one I don't recognize and one that I thought would be forever getting here. I am still supposed to be that young skinny mom taking my babies to playgroup and coming home and making lunch, then naps, then more playing...the simple life. I miss it so badly I can hardly stand it. Most days, I feel like I don't know how to be a mom of big kids. I always wanted to be a mom, but I just never pictured the growing up part, just the baby part. And now to feel like I am missing the last of the baby/toddler stuff just about does me in.

Now that all that venting is over, I would like to take this time to brag on my husband. While this isn't the ideal situation for either of us, I do think when I can take a step back and look, we are both doing a pretty good job of handling things. Does he want to be at home with the kids right now? Probably not, just like I don't really want to be working. But usually when I get home from work, on the nights he doesn't have a soccer game, he has the living room/kitchen picked up, dinner almost done, homework on its way to being finished, so that I can come home and not be totally overwhelmed. Just like when I was home, some days go better than others :) But he is doing an amazing job and I don't ever feel like he is taking what I am doing for granted. He is also writing his column agan, which I am so happy about! He is an amazing writer and gets so much satisfaction from doing it. Even if he does "stir the pot" a bit with his column ;)

Anyway, I realized how much I missed writing out my thoughts and how much it used to help me get these feelings down on paper and move on from them. So here I am. Not sure how often I will be writing, but hopefully it won't be months again.

What Do I Know of Holy?

2010-02-08T14:49:00.001-06:00

I heard this song today for the first time and it knocked me to my knees. SO good! It's by Addison Road.

I made You promises a thousand times
I tried to hear from Heaven
But I talked the whole time
I think I made You too small
I never feared You at all No
If You touched my face would I know You?
Looked into my eyes could I behold You?

(CHORUS)
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

I guess I thought that I had figured You out
I knew all the stories and I learned to talk about
How You were mighty to save
Those were only empty words on a page
Then I caught a glimpse of who You might be
The slightest hint of You brought me down to my knees

(CHORUS)
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Find More lyrics at www.sweetslyrics.com
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

(CHORUS 2)
What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of wounds that will heal my shame?
And a God who gave life "its" name?
What do I know of Holy?
Of the One who the angels praise?
All creation knows Your name
On earth and heaven above
What do I know of this love?

(CHORUS)
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?

Lissy Edmonson...1968-2009

2009-11-24T09:57:00.003-06:00

My sweet friend, Lissy, passed away last night after a long fight with cancer. I have been thinking all morning about her and how she lived her life. She loved God first. So much that it just radiated through everything she did. Watching her as a wife to Joel and a mother to Jackson and Mason was so special. She loved them so much. But the part that sticks out to me today is just how she lived each day. She didn't try to be like anyone else, compare herself to others, but she lived each day to be the best Lissy she could be. So, from today on, I am going to try to live my life to the glory of God and be the best "me" that I can be for Him. Thank you, Lissy, for living your life in such a way that makes us all want to be better people and strive each day to bring glory and honor to God. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy lives on.

Hair poll...

2009-10-15T16:54:00.001-05:00

Not that any of you are still reading, but if you are, I am taking a hair poll. I have let my hair grow out some and have also let my bangs grow out. And now I am bored :) If you were me, would you go short with no bangs or longer with bangs? Here are two pictures to give you examples. Thanks!

http://jaimepressly.nu/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/jamie_pressly_317a564b9931796092003.jpg

http://www.hairboutique.com/tips/images/_MG_8910_250h.jpg

Wow...I did it!! (longer post than anticipated :))

2009-08-01T20:35:00.002-05:00

Well, I set out this past week to change my household. I was tired of being exhausted at the end of the day from dealing with behavior problems. Problems that were there only because of my laziness and lack of consistency.

Luke, my 4 yr old, hadn't taken a regular nap since he was probably 2 1/2. And I just decided that there was NO reason he shouldn't be taking naps. I would always say, "Well, Luke doesn't take naps anymore. When he does, he just doesn't go to bed at night." NOT TRUE!! He would be a little nightmare by 5:00 and I just decided to make a change. So after the kids left for school Monday morning, Luke and I sat down and talked about our new schedule. He was a little upset that Mommy was going to make him "take a rest" but he didn't really worry about it too much right then. I told him we weren't going to whine anymore and he was going to obey Mommy. Right after that, something happened, I don't remember what, and he got whiny. So I immediately put him in time out and told him that behavior was not acceptable anymore. I turned around and walked out and told him I would talk to him when he was quiet. And then it happened...he got quiet!! HA!! I had done it. Playtime came, lunch time came, and then it was the dreaded naptime. I told him for the first day, he had to lay quietly for 20 minutes. If he stayed quiet and in his bed for that time, he would be able to get up. Well, he fell asleep that day and has taken 1.5 hour naps each day since then. I am telling you, I am like a new woman with almost 2 hours to myself every day!!

I also have stopped eating out and drinking coke. It's been 2 weeks tomorrow since I have eaten out (with one exception where both little kids got to eat free, big kids were at school) and 1 week since I have had any carbonation. I feel great.

Needless to say, it's been a big week in my house. I even cut out texting today. Those who know me know how big of a deal that is ;) But I just couldn't justify paying for it anymore.

So, this big long post to say...Yay ME!!! I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me HIS strength ;)

You're gonna miss this.

2009-06-24T20:33:00.002-05:00

I took a quiz on Facebook tonight. "Which country song are you?" I have been complaining a lot lately about how much work I have at home, how the kids are driving me crazy, I don't have enough "me time". But tonight, after we got home from our closing, we were supposed to go out to eat with Stephen's mom and stepdad. Luke was really tired because we had been running around all day. So he was just losing it, meltdown after meltdown. Campbell was starting to lose it too. So we decided to just stay home and have a quiet night here, dinner at the table etc. After dinner we went to the park in our neighborhood and played for a bit. So, to my point...I came in and got on Facebook and took this quiz. I think God was trying to tell me something.

This was the song that best describes me: You're Gonna Miss This.

She was staring out that window, of that SUV

Complaining, saying I can't wait to turn 18

She said I'll make my own money, and I'll make my own rules

Mamma put the car in park out there in front of the school

Then she kissed her head and said I was just like you

-Chorus-
You're gonna miss this

You're gonna want this back

You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast

These Are Some Good Times

So take a good look around

You may not know it now

But you're gonna miss this

Before she knows it she's a brand new bride

In a one-bedroom apartment, and her daddy stops by

He tells her It's a nice place

She says It'll do for now

Starts talking about babies and buying a house

Daddy shakes his head and says Baby, just slow down

-Chorus-
You're gonna miss this

You're gonna want this back

You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast

These Are Some Good Times

So take a good look around

You may not know it now

But you're gonna miss this

Five years later there's a plumber workin' on the water heater

Dog's barkin', phone's ringin'

One kid's cryin', one kid's screamin'

She keeps apologizin'

He says They don't bother me.

I've got 2 babies of my own.

One's 36, one's 23.
Huh, it's hard to believe, but ...

-Chorus-
You're gonna miss this

You're gonna want this back

You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast

These Are Some Good Times

So take a good look around

You may not know it now

But you're gonna miss this

You're gonna miss this

Yeah, you're gonna miss this

We are HOMEOWNERS!!!!!

2009-06-24T17:41:00.001-05:00

After months, literally, of setbacks, we finally closed on our house today!! We have lived here as renters for 5 years, so I didn't expect it to feel different coming home after the closing. But it did. It was awesome!!! I am so thankful to God for providing this opportunity for us. I pray we use His blessings wisely.

So incredibly sad...

2009-06-23T13:22:00.003-05:00

A long time friend of our family, Sherry Herald, passed away today. She has a daughter that's my age, her only child, Ashley. Please pray for Ashley and her family. Not sure what they are going to do without Sherry.

I am fighting the urge to go be with them. Why do I have so much going on that I can't get out of on days like this????? Ugh.

One overwhelmed mom...

2009-06-22T15:59:00.002-05:00

I wanted to be a mom my entire life. I loved babies, always wanted to babysit, carry babies around at church, etc. And I love the fact that the only thing I ever wanted to do, I am doing right now.

I do not take my job for granted. I do not take the responsibility of raising my kids lightly. But right now, I am so overwhelmed. My house is a mess, MESS, there are no groceries in the house, my car is a mess, I don't feel good about myself physically, blah blah blah.

I know that there are millions of moms who feel the same way, but today, I feel alone in my struggle. How do you all cope with getting everything done, when really, all you want to do is lay down and watch a TV show without having to pause it 27 times? Please don't get me wrong, even with all the struggles, I still wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Just one of those days.

I'm back!!!

2009-06-21T17:55:00.002-05:00

I thought I would take this Father's Day to restart my blog. I took a break for several reasons, but I have had so many people ask tell me I should get it going again. So, here I am.

First of all, Happy Father's Day to my sweet husband. He is working so hard out in the heat today refereeing soccer. But we celebrated last night. The kids got him some x-box games and cards. I think he liked them. He loves getting things that they can do together.

Happy Father's Day to Ray and PaPa (Stephen's dad and grandfather). We wish we were with you today. We miss you very much.

I spent the day with my dad and grandfather. I wasn't going to go, but I am glad I did. We ate lunch and then sat on the porch and watched the kids play. If any of you remember, their porch is my favorite place on earth. I needed to be there after the weekend I experienced.

My best friend Staci lost her dad on Thursday. He was one of the kindest men who ever lived. And he loved life. Please keep them in your prayers. Her grandfather is also in the hospital right now.

And last, my dad's childhood friend Sherry is in the hospital after several complications from a minor surgery, and the doctors have said there isn't anything else they can do for her. Please keep her, her daughter Ashley and the family in your prayers.

It's good to be back.

Some pics...

2008-12-29T10:36:00.003-06:00

These are from Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Love is...

2008-12-18T10:48:00.002-06:00

A group of kids ages 4-8 were asked what love is. These are their answers. I think the one about Christmas is my favorite.

'When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore.
So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love.'
Rebecca- age 8

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.
You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'
Billy - age 4

'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.'
Karl - age 5

'Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.'
Chrissy - age 6

'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired.'
Terri - age 4

'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.'
Danny - age 7

'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more.
My Mom my and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss'
Emily - age 8

'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'
Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)

'If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,'
Nikka - age 6
(we need a few million more Nikka's on this planet)

'Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.'
Noelle - age 7

'Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.'
Tommy - age 6

'During my piano recital, I was on the stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling.
He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.'
Cindy - age 8

'My mommy loves me more than anybody
You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.'
Clare - age 6

'Love is when Mommy gives my Daddy the best piece of chicken.'
Elaine-age 5

'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.'
Chris - age 7

'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.'
Mary Ann - age 4

'I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.'
Lauren - age 4

'When you love somebody,
your eyelashes go up and
down and little stars come
out of you.'
Karen - age 7

'Love is when Mommy sees
Daddy on the toilet and
she doesn't think it's gross.'
Mark - age 6

'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.'
Jessica - age 8

And the final one

The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife.

Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.

When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said,

'Nothing, I just helped him cry'

Great article

2008-12-16T13:08:00.001-06:00

I was surfing the web today and found this great article. I have been really down on myself lately for still having a few extra pounds. Yes, I know I have 4 kids. Anyway, this article was great and encouraging. Check it out.

Happy Birthday Jordan!!!

2008-12-14T19:56:00.000-06:00

I can't believe Jordan is 9 today!! Where does the time go?

So incredibly thankful...

2008-11-27T07:32:00.001-06:00

Fireproof

2008-11-18T08:27:00.004-06:00

If you haven't seen it yet, GO!!! I am still processing my thoughts from the movie. I honestly didn't expect the reaction I had. And until this morning, I wasn't really sure why. There was a song in the movie that really spoke to me called "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller. I was listening to it again this morning for my quiet time and it hit me. I think God wanted me to see Fireproof for a reason other than to work on my marriage. Yes, he wants that, too. But I think He was telling me that I need to fireproof my relationship with Him.

One of the main lines in the movie is that fireproof doesn't mean the flames won't get to you, but that when they do, you will be able to withstand them. While Stephen and I have been under tremendous stress these last several months, we still have been confident that our marriage would be able to withstand the stress. We both come from divorced families, and we have always said that we would be willing to do whatever it takes to not let that happen to us. Even during those times where we don't like each other very much, we just know that we will make it.

But honestly, my relationship with God has suffered over these recent months. I haven't taken time to spend with Him. I have basically neglected Him. I have prayed, but I don't think I believed He was really listening or that He really cared. I haven't worked on our relationship at all. Yesterday, I was telling a friend that I was definitely in a valley with God. I wanted to feel Him, but I didn't. How do you think my marriage would work if I went for weeks, months and didn't talk to Stephen? Didn't take time to listen to Him? Probably not very well. But that is what I have done with God. So is it any wonder that I am in this valley? Anyway, this is why I think God wanted me to see this movie and why my reaction was so much stronger and deeper than I thought it would be. Here are the lyrics to the song. The video is on Youtube.

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Excellence

2008-11-15T19:28:00.004-06:00

I saw this quote from Aristotle on my brother-in-law's refridgerator and something about it hit me. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

So, how do we form a habit of excellence? I would love thoughts on this.

PRAISE GOD!!!

2008-11-10T12:40:00.002-06:00

They get to keep the girls!!!! It took a little longer than expected because the biological father wanted to sign his rights over instead of them being terminated so he could get visitation rights. But they get to keep the girls!!!!! Pray that everything gets finalized today so they can put all this behind them.

Pray for the Malugins!!!

2008-11-10T09:32:00.002-06:00

If you read this before 10:00 a.m., please lift up Keith and Lydia Malugin. They are friends of mine that I have mentioned before. They have been in a LONG process of finalizing their adoption of their twin baby girls. Today is the day that they find out whether or not they get to keep the babies or give them to the father. I know this may sound confusing, but it has been a heart-wrenching 11 months and we are all ready for this to be over. PLEASE pray the judge leaves the girls with Keith and Lydia. Please, please, please pray.

True or false...

2008-11-05T20:05:00.002-06:00

I got this from a friend today and thought it was too good not to share. The first part wasn't true for me, as far as being afraid if Obama won the election. But I thought the rest of the e-mail was good.

Dear Friends,

For months now my email Inbox has been besieged by nearly hysterical warnings about what will happen if Barack Obama becomes President. I have been encouraged to be worried, afraid, concerned, prepared for disaster, and a whole host of other maladies if this happens. I do not deny the importance of this election, but it seems to me that we need a dose of perspective. So here, on the eve of the election, I would like to start my own email concerning this election. It's a "True/False" test. I'd like for all of us to take it. Feel free to email it on to whomever:

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, Jesus will still be King.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our responsibilities as Christians will not have changed one iota.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the greatest agent for social change in America will still be winning the hearts and minds of men and women through the gospel, not legislation.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my primary citizenship will still be in this order - (1) the Kingdom of God, (2) America, not vice-versa.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the tomb will still be empty.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the cross, not the government, will still be our salvation.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our children will still be more concerned with whether or not we spend time with them than with who is President.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my neighbor will still be my neighbor, and loving him/her will still be the second greatest commandment. (Do you know the first?)

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see abortion ultimately overturned will still be winning men and women to a high view of life through the gospel of Christ.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see gay marriage ultimately defeated will still be winning men and women to a biblical view of marriage through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my retirement will still not match my treasure in Heaven.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, "Jesus Is Lord" will still be the greatest truth in the Universe.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, we will still know that God is in control.

How did you score?

Remember who you are and who He is.

Love it!

2008-10-28T07:07:00.001-06:00

Stephen took this picture last night while I was at the gym.

Weekend

2008-10-19T18:28:00.002-05:00

My dad came down yesterday for Jordan's soccer game. We played in the backyard most of the afternoon, and my dad took this picture of us. I love it! I don't have very many pictures with me in them, so I was really glad to get this one. Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Woo hoo!!!!!!

2008-10-17T16:13:00.002-05:00

Stephen got a job!!!!! He starts working at Webb's Refreshments full-time in two weeks! We are so excited!! This will be normal working hours; actually, it will be early morning till afternoon, so he may even be home early enough to pick the kids up from school. Anyway, he is really relieved and excited and thrilled and any other thing you want to throw in there. Thanks to whoever has been praying for us over these last few months. On to the next chapter...

Remember

2008-10-14T09:59:00.001-05:00

I got this off a "friend" whose daughter is back in the hospital. Ashley Adams has been in and out of the hospital her whole life. She had some transplants when she was born; I don't remember all the details, but Ashley is precious. Anyway, her body is in rejection again, and this is what Trish wrote. Please pray for them.

Hug your children tightly. We were never promised a lifetime with them. Every moment with Ash, Blake, and Al are gifts. I have learned to treasure the beauty of home, of normal, and of nothing special. They are only ours to borrow and in some ways that knowledge comforts me and in other ways it haunts me. Only God knows the number of their days.

Little Elijah

2008-10-09T20:13:00.002-05:00

I got this off a friend of a friend's blog. I wanted to share it here because it just touched me so much. Please pray.

Family & Friends,

I am hopeful this email finds you all in good health and spirits. Randall and I are doing well, healthy, and excited about the upcoming arrival of Elijah's little brother (I'm due on Valentines Day!). Elijah is now in the 60th percentile on the regular weight/height charts and will discontinue physical & occupational therapy around his second birthday-which means he is developmentally right on track!

I am writing to request that you pray for our little boys health. By the grace of God, a routine physical revealed a large mass on his liver. An ultrasound, CT Scan and blood work concluded that this softball sized mass is a hepatoblastoma, a form of liver cancer. The mass is too large to be removed so Elijah will undergo a biopsy to confirm the type and stage - then chemotherapy until the tumor is small enough to be removed.

Randall and I are asking our family and friends to pray that Elijah responds well to all that he is about to take on. He has already fought so hard to be with us with entering this world 14 weeks early, spending 2 1/2 months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, struggling with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and undergoing 4 surgeries all before he was able to walk. He has a difficult 4 month journey ahead of him so please lift him up and pray that the strength, joy and beautiful spirit we see in him everyday continues to carry him through."

Poor Cam-cam UPDATE

2008-10-06T21:52:00.004-05:00

I have no idea why, but Campbell has decided that she has no intention of letting me lay her down to go to sleep anymore. The last two nights, tonight being the third, she has screamed, SCREAMED until we go get her. We are going on 46 minutes now. I have no idea what to do. She has been my best sleeper. She takes great naps, and I have never had to put her to sleep. Now, even when she is asleep when we lay her down, she wakes up screaming. I am losing it. 48 minutes and counting. She is showing no signs of stopping. The last two nights, Luke and Campbell have both ended up in our bed and we are exhausted. Pray for us.

Well, she ended up crying for a solid hour. I mean screaming at the top of her lungs. She is actually a little hoarse this morning. Anyway, she was showing no signs of stopping, so I went and got her. As soon as I sat down, she put her head down and went to sleep. I held her for about 30 minutes and then put her down. She slept till 7:15 this morning. We'll see what tonight brings. And the only reason I don't think she has an ear infection is because she is fine all the other times. No fever, not grouchy, nothing. And it's not just waking up in the middle of the night. It's when I first put her down, too. Anyway, I am going to carry out our normal routine today and stick with naps, etc. So maybe that will help. Thanks for the prayers and suggestions!!

Family time

2008-10-04T16:00:00.002-05:00

Today I have been thinking about ways to have good family time now that the kids are in school. I really miss them, so much that I am praying about whether those feelings are just me missing my kids, or God leading me to homeschool again (next year). So, for now, I am thinking of ways to still have that strong family identity that I miss about homeschooling. What are some of the ways that your family achieves this? I would love suggestions. Thanks!!

You've Got Mail

2008-09-29T08:15:00.003-05:00

This movie was on TV last night. Everytime it's on, I just have to watch it. It is one of my all-time favorite movies, for many reasons. One of them is that I really want to live in New York. Ever since I saw this movie for the first time, I have said that I want to live in NY but only if I can live in Kathleen Kelley's apartment and money was no object. Ha ha! I know I will probably never live there, but it's fun to dream!

Anyway, the point of this post is this: there is a quote in the movie that I forget about till I hear it, but everytime I do, it hits me like a ton of bricks. When Kathleen realizes that her store may be in trouble, she is writing an e-mail and she says, "Sometimes I wonder about my life. I lead a small life. Well, valuable but small. And I wonder if I do it because I like it, or because I haven't been brave." This is exactly how I feel. Especially in the situation we are in right now. I just feel like there is so much out there that I didn't get to experience because I was married with kids so young. And I wouldn't change that for anything, but I have just been thinking about it. What would I do if I could do anything I wanted? Would I be doing what I am doing right now, or would it be something different? Most days, I say that there is nowhere else I'd rather be. And I believe that. But I am not sure I remember what my dreams were as a kid. Actually, I did dream of being a wife and mother, so maybe this is exactly where I am supposed to be. Well, I am rambling. Just wanted to get these thoughts down to remind myself to be brave. Not to be afraid to try new things. Not to think, "I'm a mom now, I can't do that." Anyway...

My friends need your prayers!!!

2008-09-26T12:50:00.000-05:00

My sweet friends, Keith and Lydia, desperately need your prayers. They are trying to finalize their adoption of twin baby girls, and it isn't going well. They have had the babies since they were born. They are 8 months old now. The girls were born in Mississippi, and the adoption office there has royally screwed things up and dropped the ball. To make a long story short, the biological father, who is around 19 I think, has come forward to say he wants custody. It has been like a nightmare and we all just want it to be over and for Keith and Lydia to get to keep their babies. Please join me in praying for them. I know I don't have a lot of details and this post probably doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but you can still pray. Please pray. I am believing God to work this out for good. Please, please pray.

Fireproof

2008-09-26T08:50:00.003-05:00

There is a new movie coming out today called Fireproof. I had only heard of the title until today. I went to the site for the movie and watched the trailer. I couldn't help but pass it on here.

I can't go see it today, or probably before it leaves theaters, but I will definitely be seeing it.

62 years

2008-09-22T08:50:00.004-05:00

This is how long my grandparents have now been married. They just celebrated their anniversary this weekend. My dad went with them to Branson, MO and from what I hear, they had a fabulous time. I can't wait to see their pictures.

(The rest of this post will be mainly for my husband, but read on if you wish.)

Stephen, I have spent the last few months being really mad at you. I am sure you have noticed ;) I have wanted to yell and scream, ignore you, and just be plain mad. But I can't. No matter what has happened, what circumstances we find ourselves in, I love you more than words can describe. I always say, "If I didn't love you so much, it wouldn't hurt so much." I say this about my kids to. The Martina McBride song, Blessed, says it best. "I have been blessed with so much more than I deserve, to be here with the ones that love me, to love them so much it hurts." I now know what that is like. To actually hurt you love someone so much.

I am saying all this to say, no matter what happens over the next 50 years, I love you. There is no where else in the world I would rather be than here with you. There is nothing else in the world I would rather be doing than taking care of you and loving you. And no matter what you decide to do, where you decide to take us, I will be there with you. And if you decide to take us nowhere and stay here, I will be behind you all the way. You can do anything you set your mind to and you will be amazing at whatever you end up doing. No matter what anyone else says, you already are successful. Just look at your kids. Look at how much they love you and want to spend time with you. Look at how they listen to you and want to hear everything you have to say. Just watch Cammie when you walk into a room. You love God. You want to do what He wants, eventhough we aren't really sure what that is right now. You love life, learning, family (even the crazy ones ;)), you want to make sure our kids have awesome relationships with their grandparents like we have. I just love that about you.

Anyway, I am rambling. Surprise, surprise ;) I say all this to say, no matter what happens, I look forward to the next 50+ years with you. They will be an adventure for sure and I can't wait to see what God has in store. Times will be hard, but they will be blessed. And I love you always.

Has anyone seen my confidence?

2008-09-14T22:52:00.003-05:00

Somewhere along the way, I have lost my confidence. I have come to realize over the last couple of days that this is the reason for most of my problems. And I can't put my finger on what exactly took it away. It isn't that I feel I have lost myself, because I don't feel that way at all. All I ever wanted to do was be a wife and mom. I wanted to stay at home with my babies and take care of my husband. That is exactly who I am and what I want to be doing. But it is more that I feel like I am failing at those things that I am supposed to be doing.

When Jordan and Claire were little, and it was just them, I felt really good about the job I was doing. Things were so simple then. We would get up, eat breakfast, play a little, get dressed, meet friends at the park or whatever, and life just seemed right. Time went by, we lost a couple of jobs, and we settled in Murfreesboro. Stephen started working at State Farm and he loved it. Things were getting back to normal, and Lukey was born. Oh, sweet Luke. I still felt really good about my abilities as a mother. Jordan and Claire hadn't reached the fighting stage yet, I had a perfect little one again and things were right.

But I remember telling Stephen at one point that I was scared for everyone to grow up. Not that I was sad for the baby stage to be over (though, now, I am), but I was terrified. I know how to take care of babies and toddlers. I am quite good at it, if I may say so myself. I love to hold them, take care of them, teach them things, just be with them. But I am terrified of the older stage, where Jordan and Claire are now. How do I parent them? Do I have what it takes to teach them about God and life and everything they need to know? It was almost as if, when I said it out loud that I was terrified of it, Satan said, "Now I've got her! I know just where to bring her down!!" And he took all the confidence I had.

We have been having some trouble with my precious Jordan. He is incredibly smart, funny, a great big brother, just an all around great kid. But for the last few months, probably 6 or so, there has been something going on with him and me. It was like he turned into a different kid around me. A lot of arguing, back-talk, just plain disrespect. I was so frustrated. What was I doing wrong. He was doing it to Stephen, too, but not to the extreme he was doing it with me. I had a really bad day with him this past Saturday, probably the worst it's been, and I called my friend. I went and talked to her for a long time and we just talked through everything. When it started, circumstances, etc. She asked me if I could change one thing to make me feel like I was making some progress, what would it be. I told her that I didn't like myself. At all. I didn't like my body, I didn't like myself as a mom, as a wife, as a friend, etc. There wasn't anything about me that I like. If I could change one thing, it would be to have confidence in myself again.

So, I prayed on the way home that God would show me who I am in Him. No, I can't parent on my own. I can only parent with the Spirit guiding me. He knows Jordan better than I do, and the only way I can parent him is with the Spirit's help. Yesterday was incredible. I told myself that God was with me and that He would help me. He gave me my kids because, with Him, I do have what it takes to be their mom. I have what they need and they can respect me. They can obey me. They just have to know that I love and respect them and that whatever I do, I do because I love God and want the best for them. Not because I want to be a mean mom and not let them do all the things they want.

All this to say, my problem wasn't with Jordan. It was with me. I had believed the lies that Satan was telling me. Lies like I can't be a good mom; I am a terrible homeschooler, I can never make it work; I will never have what it takes to have that phenomenal family I dreamed of. Those were all lies and I know that now. I feel liberated. Not that I feel like everything will be perfect from here on out. But I know the answer to my problems. My strength comes from God alone. As long as I remember that, I will be fine.

I want to share two things that have touched me over the last few days. I am re-reading a book that my friend reminded me of. She calls it her other parenting Bible ;) It is called A Positive Plan for More Calm, Less Stress by Karol Ladd. She also wrote The Power of a Positive Mom, if you are familiar with that. Anyway, it is an excellent book and there is a poem that touched me.

"Let nothing disturb thee,
Let nothing affright thee,
All things are passing,
God changeth never." Teresa of Avila

Also, a scripture keeps coming up and I know why now. It is Isaiah 41:10. "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

God is good. God is faithful. And God hears your cries for help.

Help!!!

2008-09-13T19:38:00.002-05:00

When Luke had just turned 2, we moved him to a "big boy bed." Campbell was in our room in a crib, and I wanted my room back. So, I moved the boys in together and the girls in together. I now know that it was too soon to move him. Before, I could put him in his crib and close the door; he would sometimes cry for 5 minutes or so, but then he would go to sleep. When we moved him, he wouldn't stay in the bed and I got in the bad habit of laying down with him to go to sleep. HOnestly, it only takes about 5-10 minutes for him to fall asleep, so I still don't mind laying down with him. What I do mind is when he comes into our room between 1 and 3 a.m. because he can't go back to sleep on his own. It is killing me. I am wondering if maybe I got one of those toddler beds and put it in my room, if I could get him to go to sleep on his own in there. I can't do it in his room because Jordan is in there and it would keep him awake. I can't put a twin in my room because of space. Does anyone have thoughts on this? I am really at a loss.

Funny Luke story...

2008-09-08T10:44:00.003-05:00

This was our conversation as we were coming home from errands this morning.

Luke: Mommy, my eye hurts.

Me: I'm sorry. I'll look at it when we get home.

Luke: I think I need some eye drips.

Me: Some what?

Luke: Some eye drips.

Me: Do you mean eye drops?

Luke: Yes, eye drops.

Me: Where did you learn about eye drops? Did you see someone using eye drops?

Luke: Yes, on Diego, there was a crocodile and he had a booboo on his eye and they had to use eye drops to make him feel better. So I think I need some.

Me: Okay, we'll see what we can do when we get home.

Luke: But Mommy?

Me: Yes, Luke?

Luke: I want to call them eye drips.

Me: Okay Luke. You can call them eye drips.

Seriously people, I laugh all day around here.

Body Clutter

2008-09-04T13:41:00.002-05:00

I am reading this book called Body Clutter. If you are familiar with Fly Lady, it's the same woman. The book is on weight loss. It is really good. Last night when I was reading, something struck me that I hadn't thought of before. She was saying that one of the first things you need to do when trying to lose weight is learn to love yourself. We can't love others until we love ourselves. We won't take care of something that we don't love. Just like clutter in our homes. If it's something we don't really care about, we just shove it in a corner and let it collect dust. If we don't love ourselves, we will not do the things we need to do for ourselves to live the best life we can.

I don't know why I hadn't thought of this before, but it really hit me between the eyes. I started thinking about all the things that I feel like I don't do well. Things I fail at. I failed at homeschool. I fail at talking nicely to my children. I fail at keeping my home like I should. I fail my friends. And all these things have made me love myself less and less, until I just quit taking care of myself. For those of you that know me, you know that weight gain scares me because of my family's history. Most, actually all, of the women on my mom's side of the family are overweight. It isn't only that I want to be a certain size, or that I want to look a certain way. Though that is certainly part of it. I just don't want to end up having all the health problems that I know come with it. I don't want Claire and Campbell to end up having to deal with these same issues when they get older. I don't worry about the boys as much because I already see how much they want to be like their daddy. They have a very good role model in him. But I do worry about the girls. And I worry about me.

How do we get to a point that we start turning things around? How do we learn to love ourselves again? Have any of you been there? If you have, how did you get out of it? Right now I am in one of those neverending vicious cycles and I can't seem to bring myself to the place where I know I need to be. I want to change, but I want it to be permanent. Any suggestions? Advice?

Oh Lukey...

2008-08-29T10:16:00.001-05:00

Luke likes to run around in his underwear.

Me: Hey underwear boy!

Luke: My name is underwear MAN!

Ok.

Where do I even begin?

2008-08-27T13:45:00.003-05:00

I have been meaning to post for a few days now, but I have no idea where to begin.

When Stephen lost his job back in May, we were devastated. We thought that was where he would be for the rest of his working life. We had no idea what to do next. I brought up the subject of youth ministry again (like I have every few months since we had been out of it) just to make sure that wasn't what Stephen wanted to do. If it was, I wanted to make sure he knew that he had my support. So, we started praying for God to show us what in the world we were supposed to do. But he really didn't feel like youth ministry was what he was supposed to do with his life, so I let it go. Stephen committed to taking several weeks and intentionally listening for God's voice and His direction. In July, Stephen went to Wilderness Trek with some teens from our church. He was really looking forward to the trip, mainly because he knew he would have concentrated time alone there to spend with God. He knew God would speak to him there, eventhough he didn't have any idea what He would say. But he was anxious to get going and hear whatever it was.

When he got home, he was telling me everything he heard from God on that trip. He knew that God was speaking to him about being a better father, husband, spiritual leader in our home, etc. He was so energized. But still, we had no answer about what he was supposed to do. Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled with the changes I saw and with the "new Stephen." Not that I didn't love the old one ;) Anyway, I feel like now I know why God spoke to him about our family.

Over the last week, we have both felt a very strong calling to go back into full-time youth ministry. I feel like God spoke to Stephen regarding our family because, to be an effective youth minister, you have to put your family first. You have to be able to show the teens what marriage is supposed to look like. And your family has to be supportive of your ministry. Stephen and I have always looked at ourselves as a team when it comes to ministry, so my supporting him has never been an issue. Anyway, we have sent a resume to a church that isn't around here ;) I don't want to share too much about that yet, but once I know a little more, I will.

I have never liked the idea of moving away from home. My family is all around the Nashville area. But that is one reason I know God is preparing us to move away: I am at COMPLETE peace about moving away. Actually, I am excited about the change. And my kids are even getting excited. I haven't seen Stephen more excited and energized about anything in a long time.

I am rambling. All this to say we covet your prayers over the next few weeks as we see what God has in store. Pray for focus to get stuff done at home. We have A LOT of cleaning out to do if we are moving. We have lived in our house for 4.5 years and there is stuff in our attic that has been up there since we moved in! Nice. Anyway, pray for clarity. Pray for our financial situation; Stephen has been working at Target part-time and reffing soccer, but the money we had saved up is gone, so we are living paycheck to paycheck. We have amazing friends and family who have made sure we have everything we need, but it's still scary. And if we have to go interview somewhere out of town, Stephen will have to take off work without pay for a few days. Most of all, just pray that God's will be done. We are extremely excited to see what God has in store.

First day of school

2008-08-11T07:12:00.002-05:00

So, we are completely ready to leave for school. It's 7:12 a.m. We don't have to leave our house till about 7:35 at the earliest. The kids have been ready to go for about 10 minutes. I am killing time. How much longer do you think this will last before we start having to rush to get ready? I give it 3 days.

On a sad note, one of my college friends lost her mom yesterday. She had a massive heart attack. Please pray for my friend Jeannie Woods and her husband Matt and their family.

Possible job opportunity...

2008-08-05T17:30:00.002-05:00

I am writing to ask you to pray for an opportunity. My dad met a manager at Green Bank here in town and Stephen went to talk to her today. He said it sounds very promising, so he picked up an application and they will have interviews next week. Please pray that this works out. He really wants to be able to get certified to teach high school, but he needs something full-time to fill in until then. Plus, he will have to quit Target because he has to be available for soccer (which pays more than Target). Target won't let you have Saturdays off, so soccer would be out. Anyway, this bank job would be great and would still allow me to continue to be at home. Thanks!

We're back!

2008-08-04T07:46:00.003-05:00

Well, I was attempting to write about Stephen's trip to Wilderness Trek and what all he heard from God on his trip. But I can't get my thoughts straight. I am still overwhelmed with all the things he is sharing. They are all good, don't worry, but overwhelming at the same time. The trip was a blessing, and I am so glad he got the change to go. We did well without him for the most part. The hardest part was not being able to talk to him everyday. They don't let you take your phones on the actual trek, so I didn't talk to him from Sunday afternoon to Friday afternoon. SO HARD!!! We stayed at my mom's until Friday. He came home Saturday; his plane got in around 5:00. I feel like I am rambling...pray for us as he finishes school this week and starts to try and figure out what he is supposed to do. Hope your week was good!

Blog break

2008-07-26T15:21:00.003-05:00

I am headed to my mom's for a few days while Stephen is out of town. She doesn't have a computer at her house, so I will be on a break!! Please pray for Stephen as he is gone to Wilderness Trek in CO. He is really excited about it and is anxious for God to speak to him there. Pray for me as I deal with the kiddos by myself. Campbell and Claire aren't feeling well, so I am already tired. Not good since Stephen won't be home until next Saturday!! Anyway, my mom will be able to help me at night so that will be good. Have a great week!

Thank you!

2008-07-24T08:20:00.002-05:00

My friend Jaime is doing better today. They have gotten her labor stopped and she is doing much better. The baby is still doing well on the monitors. Keep them in your prayers as they travel home!

Please pray!

2008-07-23T16:39:00.001-05:00

Our friends Jeff and Jamie from church are in Memphis right now for a convention and Jamie has been admitted to the hospital. She is 24 weeks pregnant and there is a possibility she will have to deliver early. Please lift them in prayer right now!!

Luke is potty trained!!!

2008-07-23T08:34:00.002-05:00

And he did it himself!! Seriously. I had nothing to do with it. Day before yesterday, he woke up and said, "I wanna go pee pee in the potty." So off we went. I had been telling him that when he used the potty all the time, he could wear his new Cars underwear. So, he picked out the ones he wanted to wear. For the rest of the day, he took himself to the potty. EVERYTIME!!! He even pooped in the potty with no problems. I am just beside myself. Yay for Lukey!!!!!

On another note, things are still pretty much the same around here. Stephen is still working at Target and is finishing up school. He goes to Wilderness Trek in Colorado next week. He will be gone Saturday to Saturday. I am NOT looking forward to it, but I know it will be a HUGE blessing for him. I just hate being at home by myself. I am a chicken. I think we may go stay with my mom for part of the week. She works full time, but she would be there to help at night with the kids, so that is probably our plan.

We are going to visit with some friends that we don't get to see much anymore. Well, we go to church together, but since all of them are in school and two of mine are, we just don't get to spend much time together. I am SOOO looking forward to it. Have a blessed day!

Fashion Fast

2008-07-20T11:11:00.002-05:00

I came across this blog today and wanted to pass the idea along. Everyone I know has MORE than enough of just about everything. Stephen and I have noticed that even in our situation, with him not working full-time yet and our money being EXTREMELY tight, we still have more than enough. What would it be like to not shop for a year? How would it change our views on what we think we "need"? Would we realize how wasteful we are? Would we realize how incredibly blessed we are? It really has me thinking. We have turned off our satellite, cancelling the Y, eating out (this one has been the hardest for me), pretty much everything that we can cut out, we have. I must say, it has been good.

Good morning!!

2008-07-17T08:51:00.002-05:00

4th of July pictures

2008-07-07T23:09:00.003-05:00

These are just some of the 4th of July pictures. I have a few on my camera that I haven't uploaded yet. These are from my sister-in-law.

Please pray...

2008-07-01T13:08:00.002-05:00

for the Ivey family. They are trying to adopt two precious children from Haiti and they are apparently having some major setbacks. I had the privelege of meeting them a couple of weeks ago. They are amazing people. Please take a minute and pray for them. Thanks!

I've been tagged!

2008-06-26T11:23:00.001-05:00

My friend Mandy at church tagged me. Here goes!

Here are the rules:
a. Link to the person who tagged you.
b. Post the rules on your blog.
c. Write six random things about yourself.
d. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blog.
e. Let each person know they’ve been tagged by leaving a comment at their blog.
f. Let your tagger know when your entry is up.

1. I have an obsession with my hairstyle. I am always changing it. If it's long, I want it short. If it is short, I want it long. It drives my husband CRAZY!!! I guess growing up around a beauty shop did it too me.

2. I love to sing. Anyone who knows me well knows this already. Claire asked me the other day what my favorite thing to do was. This was my answer.

3. I got married when I was 19.

4. I spend way too much time on the internet. It is kind of an obsession, too, I guess. I love connecting with people.

5. If I had the money and my body would allow it, I would have more babies. I love being pregnant, going to the hospital, having the baby, everything about newborns.

6. I hate going to the grocery store. HATE it. I don't know why really. I don't mind cooking and I certainly don't mind eating. Just going to the store and having to unload it and put it away, yuck. Think maybe I wouldn't eat out so much if I could get over this one? Probably.

I tag Mandy J, Tamara, Kristi, Rachel B, Jennifer B, and Rachel W.

Beach Pictures

2008-06-16T08:11:00.004-05:00

We had a great time on our trip. It was much needed family time! There are a ton of pictures. I was really frustrated when I got home because it looks like there was a smudge on our lens and on one side of each picture it looks blurry. O well. Enjoy!

Go vote!!

2008-06-02T23:15:00.001-05:00

My friend Tamara is in the finals for the photo contest at 5 Minutes for Mom. "Changing more than diapers" is the one to vote for. It is of "Youngest Girl" and she is COVERED in mud. Precious! So, go vote!

Update on McHaney

2008-05-31T08:41:00.002-05:00

My friend's little girl, McHaney, is doing much better and is at home. The surgery went well. Thanks for praying!

Rescue Center in Haiti

2008-05-29T09:22:00.003-05:00

My friend Tamara is selling these adorable shirts to benefit the Rescue Center in Haiti. $5 from each shirt sold will be donated to the center. She has some very good friends who are adopting two children from there. Lately, I have been made more and more aware of the needs around the world. I so often take for granted how blessed I am. So, if you can, buy a shirt! Claire has one and it is PRECIOUS!! Also visit Aaron's blog and Jamie's blog. These are her friends who are adopting. Thanks!

Pray for McHaney!

2008-05-29T09:08:00.003-05:00

My friend Rachel's sweet little girl, McHaney, is having heart surgery today at 11. Please pray for her, Daren and Rachel, and the doctors that she will come through this with flying colors!

2008-05-26T21:29:00.002-05:00

Sometimes when I need to get away for a few minutes, I read Celebrity Baby Blog. It is kind of fun and just lets my mind wander. Anyway, today I read something from the rapper Xzibit (about whom I know nothing) whose newborn son just passed away. They had a quote from his myspace page and it just really touched me. I wanted to share it here.

"Xavier passed away this morning at 3:30 a.m. and I must tell you this; it is unnatural for a parent to bury a child. I am telling you this because of the same reason I tell you when I'm having a great time, life is too short to be fake. Hold on to your kids if you have them, protect them, and show them you love them every day you wake up and see them, don't take a second you get to hug them, teach them, and care for them for granted. You can have all the material wealth in the world, but it is NOTHING compared to having your family.

I am thankful for all of my blessings and I'm not one to question God's perfect plan, so I leave you with great love and thanks for all the love that was sent earlier on my previous blog to my son. Of course I need to take some time and handle my loss, STAY FOCUSED PEOPLE. It's not promised to any of us."

No matter where we are in life, we all share this need to love and be loved. We are all similar in more ways than we're different. This is what I am learning as I get older.

"The streets of Heaven are far too crowded with angels tonight."

2008-05-21T22:18:00.002-05:00

This morning, I learned that my friend Mandy from college lost her father very suddenly on Monday. She and her sister both happened to be in their hometown when their father died. I don't know if I can share the circumstances, but let me just say that they desperately need our prayers. Please pray for the Justice family.

Also, Stephen Curtis Chapman lost his 5 yr old daughter this afternoon. His teenage son accidentally backed over her in his SUV. She was playing in the driveway and he simply didn't see her. I can't even imagine.

Please lift these families up in prayer. They need the comfort only God can give.

Happy Birthday baby girl!!

2008-05-17T17:39:00.003-05:00

Hurry up and wait.

2008-05-16T11:13:00.002-05:00

This is where we are right now. We have applied for a total of close to 25 jobs. Haven't heard from any of them. We did get some good news this week. Lipscomb is going to let Stephen do an independent study with his Greek. This basically means that he will actually have his degree at the end of this summer and not next May. That is a HUGE blessing. I am still trying to figure out what God wants me to do about working. I have applied for a full-time job at a bank. I honestly can't imagine not being at home everyday. But, it may be something I have to do for a time. We also need clarity on the timing of when to move out of our house. Without going into detail, we need to move but aren't sure what that means, when to do it, whether to do it at all.

We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received. People we haven't seen in years, people we talk to a few times a year, my "readers", long time friends, most of our family, we just can't thank you enough for the support and prayers. We are tired, stressed, ready to see what God is going to do with this. Please continue to pray for the effect this is having on our kids. They are feeling the effects of our stress and it isn't pretty. We are trying to shield them as much as possible, but it's hard. I have a lot more running through my mind right now, but I need to save it for another time. We covet your prayers.

That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger.

2008-05-07T12:25:00.005-05:00

At least I sure hope it does. Stephen lost his job Monday. I won't go into all the details here. They are still fresh, and honestly they still hurt. We are moving on and ask for your prayers. He has already applied for around 10 positions, some close to home and some not. Right now, he just wants a job.

The one thing I keep telling people, much to their disbelief, is that I am not worried or scared about this. We have been through this two times before. We have NEVER lacked anything. Whether is has been through our family helping us out, our friends supporting us, praying for us, whatever, we have always had our needs met. So, when this happened, strangely enough, I had peace. I hated that it happened, and I hated the circumstances around it, but I had peace. Peace that I know only comes from God. He is our provider. We will keep trusting Him and seeking His will for us, and He has promised to take care of us. So I am not worried about that part.

Please pray for Stephen. Pray that a job comes our way quickly. Pray that God protects his heart. There are some close to us that seem to only want to point out his faults and failures and not let him move on from past/present mistakes. It really isn't very helpful. In fact, it is very hurtful. We are dealing with it. Pray that we will deal with it the way God wants us to, whatever that is. Pray that if I am supposed to work, something will work out that doesn't involve me paying for child care. Pray that the kids won't be scared or worried. Pray that Stephen and I will be able to comfort them and show them that we have faith God will provide, that we can show them their home is stable. Pray that whatever lesson we are supposed to learn through this will be obvious. Pray that our eyes will be open to Him and that we will be looking for God, we will be looking for His will, and we will be looking for what He wants us to know.

If you are a family member, and you didn't know yet, I am sorry that you found out this way. It is still very new (Monday afternoon was when it was official) and we just are exhausted from talking about it, dealing with the consequences and trying to come up with a plan.

We love all of you and covet your prayers right now.

Marathon pics part 3

2008-04-29T10:09:00.003-05:00

Marathon pics part 2

2008-04-29T10:06:00.001-05:00

Country Music Kids Marathon

2008-04-29T09:54:00.003-05:00

Jordan and Claire participated in the Kids Marathon last Saturday. I have a ton of pictures to post, and I still haven't figured out what Blogger is doing to my pictures when I am trying to post them, so it may take me a couple of posts, and there won't be captions beside them. Anyway, I am posting so many pics to update the family, so I hope everyone enjoys!

The kids ran with a group from church. At first, they were running just to run, but then we decided to turn it into a fund raiser. The kids had to each raise at least $50 to participate, and the money went to our local Room in the Inn to purchase new furniture for them. We raised enough money to purchase a couch, loveseat and microwave. We only expected to be able to buy them the couch, so the kids did an awesome job! We are so proud of them!

Claire's caterpillars

2008-04-22T11:28:00.002-05:00

Claire has two caterpillars. Their names? Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens. Nice.

Remember

2008-04-14T09:27:00.001-05:00

Sometimes it's easy to get into the daily routine and forget that families are seperated. Men and women are still sacrificing to keep our country safe and allow us to be free. Say a prayer for them today.

American Idol Shout to The Lord

2008-04-11T16:43:00.001-05:00

How cool is this?

Be careful little ears what you hear...

2008-04-10T08:32:00.003-05:00

Lately, since having the kids home all the time, I have had quite a few crazy days. Stephen is awesome at letting me have some alone time. He never complains when I go out at night or just have some time by myself at home. Anyway, when the kids are fighting or just playing loudly, I sometimes say, "I could use a vacation, BY MYSELF!" Half-jokingly, because I believe after about two days of that, I would miss my kids terribly.

Well, Claire came to me this morning and told me she had a "terrible nightmare." She said, "Wanna know what it was about?" Sure. She said that we were all at home, but I was going to go live somewhere by myself. She said I asked her if she wanted to come with me, and she kept saying yes over and over. I don't know if that meant I didn't take her or if she didn't get that far in her dream before she woke up. Regardless, she was terrified that I wanted to live by myself in her dream. Then she said, with a huge smile and a relieved tone of voice, "But then I woke up and we are all still here and it didn't really happen."

I have been really bothered by this. I never intended for them to think I didn't want to be here. I explain to them that sometimes Mom needs to have some time by herself to refresh, reconnect with God and that time makes me a better mommy. But I guess sometimes I convey through my tone of voice or the look on my face that I want to be somewhere else.

I don't. I consider my children four of God's GREATEST gifts to me. I love that I get to be at home with them. I love that even the "big kids" get to be here everyday. Even when they are fighting, like right now :) I need to be more aware of how I am coming across to them. I hope this helped someone.

I need help!

2008-04-09T15:54:00.002-05:00

I don't know if it's the carbonation or the caffeine, but I am addicted to Coke/Diet Coke, whatever I can get my hands on. Is there anyone out there who has overcome this addiction? I seriously want to cut this out, but I have terrible headaches, am irritable, etc. when I try. Do I just stick it out until I don't crave it anymore? This sounds so silly when I actually type it out, but it is a real problem to me and I really want to stop. I know I'll feel better and I know I'll be setting a better example for my kids.

So scary...

2008-04-08T18:20:00.003-05:00

I have tried to avoid jumping on this bandwagon, but I watched a video today that changed my mind. This whole Oprah thing has gotten totally out of hand and it is so scary to me. So, at the risk of sounding too preachy, watch this video, and pray that the Spirit will prick the hearts of those who are being led astray by this false teaching.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9eW6OpZiTk

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

"As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."
2 Samuel 22:31-33

So many thoughts, so little time.

2008-04-08T17:17:00.003-05:00

Some days I don't share here because what I am going through is too private. Sometimes, I don't share here because what I am going through wouldn't make sense to anyone else. But days like today, it's because I have so many thoughts that I can't decide which ones to share.

I followed a story last year, which many of you did also, about a little girl named Copeland Fair Farley who was born with Trisomy 18. I have visited their blog, www.conorbootheandgirls.blogspot.com, pretty regularly in the last few months since Copeland went to be with Jesus. Today, when I visited them, I saw an incredible video they made to help share their hope and faith in God and what He did with them through Copeland and that whole experience. I also learned that they are expecting another baby. If I could pick anyone in the world to have the blessing of a baby, there would be many, but they would surely be on my list. I was changed by Copeland and her testimony. I am so thrilled for them. Please pray for a healthy baby, for Boothe's health, and for them to experience joy that can only come from God.

I hope you are having a blessed day. Hold your children and tell them how much they are loved. Most importantly, tell them how much God loves them. He is good. So very, very good.

Thoughts...

2008-04-04T21:09:00.002-06:00

I was riding home from a birthday party tonight and I was in the car by myself, which is a rare occurance these days. I had about a million thoughts running through my head. If they made any sense to anyone but myself, I would write about them here. Anyway, Chris Tomlin's version of Amazing Grace came on the radio, and I was struck by the words in the chorus tonight.

My chains are gone,
I've been set free.
My God, my Savior
He ransomed me.
Like a flood,
His mercy reigns.
Unending love,
Amazing grace.

They just touched my heart in a new way. I hope you are blessed.

I did it!

2008-03-31T06:03:00.002-06:00

I set new workout goals, and today I accomplished my first one! My goal is to workout in the morning on M,T,W and F during the week. Today was the first day and I made it! I was there before 6:00. May seem small to some of you, but this is huge for me. I love my bed and I love to sleep in with the kids. But it's not very productive, so I decided that today was a new day. I have so many things that I want to do, and getting healthy again is probably the main one. So, there, I did it!

Stephen's grandfather's birthday is today. Stephen's dad was here this weekend and told us that they were taking him to lunch yesterday, so we thought it would be fun to show up at the restaurant (in Knoxville) and surprise him! It was so fun and so worth the drive. Of course, I forgot my camera ;) Happy Birthday PaPa!! We loved getting to spend the day with you!

I hope everyone has a great day! Off to the laundry!

Discovery Center

2008-03-28T12:00:00.002-06:00

I remembered to take pictures! The one of the girls isn't the best, but the other one wasn't good at all. O well.

I need sunshine!

2008-03-28T07:45:00.002-06:00

I need some warm weather and sunshine! I am so ready for summer and the pool! We just rejoined the Y so we can go to the pool again this summer and I have never been more ready. I guess I should work out, too, but I will worry about that later. HA! We are going to the Discovery Center today. Should be fun. I am taking my camera with me; we'll see if we actually get any pictures this time. I am terrible at remembering to take pictures when I am chasing 4 kids! Hope everyone has a great day!

Might as well dance...

2008-03-26T13:49:00.002-06:00

My aunt sent me this story today. It touched me and instead of sending it to 10 people, I thought I would share it here.

When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window.

Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute, and then drive away.

But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself.

So I walked to the door and knocked. 'Just a minute', answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor.

After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 90's stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie.

By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets.

There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.

'Would you carry my bag out to the car?' she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman.

She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb.

She kept thanking me for my kindness. 'It's nothing', I told her. 'I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated'.

'Oh, you're such a good boy', she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, and then asked, 'Could you drive through downtown?'

'It's not the shortest way,' I answered quickly.

'Oh, I don't mind,' she said. 'I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice'.

I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening. 'I don't have any family left,' she continued. 'The doctor says I don't have very long.' I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.

'What route would you like me to take?' I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator.

We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.

Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, 'I'm tired. Let's go now'

We drove in silence to the address she had given me.It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico.

Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.

I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.

'How much do I owe you?' she asked, reaching into her purse.

'Nothing,' I said

'You have to make a living,' she answered.

'There are other passengers,' I responded.

Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.

'You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,' she said.

'Thank you.'

I squeezed her hand, and then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.

I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift?

What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?

On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments.

But great moments often catch us unaware-beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID, ~BUT~THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.

You won't get any big surprise in 10 days if you send this to ten people.

But, you might help make the world a little kinder and more compassionate by sending it on.

Thank you, my friend...

Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance.

Fun

2008-03-26T11:53:00.000-06:00

This was a fun typing test.

76 words

Speedtest

New pictures

2008-03-24T18:18:00.002-06:00

Of course, yesterday, when I went to take Easter pictures, my camera batteries were dead. My aunt took some so I will get them from her one of these days. These pics are from the zoo. Blogger is doing something weird where I can't see the pics when I download them, just text. So I will just tell you about them here. The one of Jordan flying through the air I just thought was funny. I think Luke took it. The others are at the playground at the zoo. Stephen and I were talking and we looked over and Luke was pushing Cammie. They were smiling at each other and laughing. The pic doesn't show that of course;) Hope everyone had a great Easter! HE IS RISEN!!

Really?

2008-03-24T06:35:00.000-06:00

I just heard this on TV. "Discover your inner Pokemon!" Seriously?

Sounds...

2008-03-17T19:46:00.003-06:00

Tonight, while I sit at the computer, I am listening to different sounds. The dishwasher, the dryer, Claire's nebulizer. Her allergies kicked in today after missing her allergy medicine Saturday night. And all these sounds make me realize one thing...I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. God is so good and He is so real to me.

I have had to go back and revisit the question, "Why do I believe in God?" I have reconnected with a girl that was in our youth group in White House, TN. Her beliefs have changed dramatically. I don't think I could breathe without my relationship with God. I honestly don't know how someone comes to the conclusion that He isn't real or doesn't exist. But I also need to be able to tell people why I believe what I believe. So I am working on it.

What I do know is that He is real, His word is truth, and you can trust Him. Everytime in everything.

I believe...

2008-03-12T20:51:00.001-06:00

God did call me to homeschool. I am confident of this. I can't share much tonight, because it is almost 10 p.m. and I need to get to bed. But I just wanted to share that things are much better in my mind. I know God called me here, and He is equipping me with exactly what I need to make this work. He is faithful. Trust Him. More later.

Struggling...

2008-03-11T09:55:00.002-06:00

Sometimes I really struggle with what to write here. I started this blog as an attempt to keep out of town family up to date on the kids. Then it became more of a journal of things that I was going through. I am also not sure if I want to share everything I am feeling, because I don't know who all reads this and if I would really want everyone to know what is going through my head. That having been said...

When we decided to bring the kids home, I was confident that God was telling us to do this. I thought we had prayed about it and the signs looked very clear at the time. Now, I am not so sure. Was God actually telling us to bring them home? Was He telling us to just pull them from the school where they were and put them back at their old school? Was I really praying about it at all?

I would like to believe that the reason this has been so hard is because I am in God's will so Satan is just having fun with me. That is the explanation that makes me feel better about this anyway. But I am wondering if I heard Him wrong. This is the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. Alice, if you are reading this, I don't know how you have done it successfully all these years. I question daily whether or not to put the kids back in school. Are they learning everything they need to be? Right now, the answer is no. Are they happy? Would they be happier with friends? Can I be selfless enough to make this work?

I honestly have no idea. I just know that today, I don't know if I made the right decision. I don't know if they are better off being at home with me. I don't know if keeping them at home will turn out to be the best thing we've ever done, or if it will turn out to be a huge mistake that we have to learn from. I have great kids; I just want what's best for them, and right now, I am not sure what that is.

New pictures

2008-03-05T09:07:00.002-06:00

I took these pictures on Saturday when the weather was so beautiful. We are ready for Spring! This was also the first time Campbell was in the swing. She loved it!

Crazy couple of weeks...

2008-03-04T08:42:00.003-06:00

Yes, these last couple of weeks have been crazy, but I can't really tell you anything specific we did. School is getting better, more organized. We are trying to stay on more of a schedule. I hope it works. For all you mothers out there who have homeschooled for a while, my hat is off to you. IT'S SOOOO HARD!!!! I know it will be worth it if we can make it work, but MAN it's hard.

One thing that I have realized over the last week or so is that I am selfish. (No comment, Stephen!!) There are so many things that I want to be doing. I want to be able to work out more than 2 days a week. I want to be able to meet my friends for lunch when all their kids are in school, but never do because I have all my kids with me. I want to be able to run to the mall without having to take half the day getting out of the house. I want my house to stay clean for more than 30 minutes.

Now, let me say before I get anyone criticizing me, I know how completely blessed I am. I have four healthy kids. I get to spend my time with them. God has entrusted them to me to teach how to love Him. I have a husband that works hard so I can stay home with my kids, which is my lifelong dream. I have a roof over my head, clothes to wear, food to eat, amazing friends, loving family, the list goes on and on.

I am not really sure what my point was in between starting this post and getting the kids breakfast ;) I guess it was just to get my feelings down. I am struggling right now with feeling like I am trapped in a way, not being able to do some of the things I really want to do because of my obligations. On the other hand, I love my "obligations" and really wouldn't trade where I am. Does every mother go through this at some point? I think so.

I'm still here...

2008-02-22T13:53:00.002-06:00

I feel like we haven't been doing very much lately. We took a few days off of school. We switched math programs and our new books hadn't gotten here yet. Monday, we should be able to hit the ground running.

Jordan got his expanders put in his mouth yesterday. Stephen has been calling him money mouth. He has to wear them for a year, and then he will get braces. At least that is the plan for now. He thinks it's cool right now, but that probably won't last long.

Claire is still bored being the only girl. Since Campbell can't really play with her yet, she still considers herself the only one. I try to have special girl times with her, but my time is spread thin these days.

Luke is cracking us up. He says the funniest things. I mean to record them when they happen, but I can't get here right away, so I forget what he has said. I can't believe he will be three in June. Time is flying.

Speaking of time flying, Campbell is 9 months old! Claire asked me today how much time she had until her birthday and when I said that she only had three months until she was 1, it freaked me out. I can't believe how fast this year has gone. I knew it would, but it has still surprised me.

God is teaching us, blessing us, hopefully using us, and we know He loves us. We are overwhelmed with the blessing of our family. Everyday, I stop and tell myself how blessed I am to have such beautiful, healthy, loving kids. I get to spend my days with all of them. Sometimes it's hard, but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

Priorities

2008-02-14T20:20:00.002-06:00

I have been thinking a lot about priorities lately. Since bringing the kids home from school, I have been really overwhelmed. I haven't done a lot of the things that I had planned. Homeschool hasn't been what I envisioned it to be. That having been said, I still feel we made the right decision. I still feel like God led us to bring them home and that He will equip me to be the mom/teacher/wife I need to be.

My point is this: Will He equip me if I don't ask Him to? I have always struggled in my prayer life. Actually, I don't have much of a prayer life. I can study my Bible all day long. I can worship all day long. My prayer life doesn't come naturally for me. So, I am wondering if the reason I am having so many struggles at home is because I don't spend time everyday praising God for who He is. I don't spend time thanking Him for everything He has done for me. I don't spend time praying for my kids and my husband. I don't spend time praying for Him to fill me with His Spirit so that I can be the woman He has called me to be. Is it any wonder I struggle? Is it any wonder I feel like I am failing? I don't think so.

God, I long to be the woman you want. I long to be the mom, homeschooler, wife, daughter, friend that you want. I want your light to shine through me. I want to be able to point others to you. I want to show my kids that having a relationship with you is unbelievable and something they don't want to live without. I have gotten away from you and I can feel it. In EVERYTHING. I want to hunger and thirst for you. I want to not be able to go through my day without praying to you and talking to you. I know that I am nothing without you. Nothing. What you did for me on the cross I'll never be able to repay you for, but I want to live my life for you. Infuse me with your spirit. Infuse me with your strength. I need you. I need you. I need you.

Keep praying...

2008-02-11T21:48:00.000-06:00

Ashley isn't doing well. My heart breaks for that family and what they are going through right now. Please pray for them. Prayer, right now, is their only hope for their baby girl.

Ashley Adams

2008-02-09T15:02:00.000-06:00

There is a precious little girl that desperately needs our prayers. I have been following her story for quite a while and it just breaks my heart today. Please go and pray for her.

www.ashleyadamsjournal.blogspot.com

Go vote!

2008-02-05T12:24:00.001-06:00

Have you voted today? I was a little bummed that I didn't get a sticker. O well.

Birthday pictures

2008-02-04T09:28:00.000-06:00

31...really?

2008-02-04T08:27:00.000-06:00

Yes, I'm 31 today. I guess I can officially call myself an adult now. There's no denying it. Not much planned. We were going to the park today, but it's pouring down rain. O well.

Still waiting

2008-02-01T12:15:00.000-06:00

The potential father has decided to wait until Monday to decide whether or not he wants to pursue paternity testing/challenging the adoption. In the meantime, Jillian is being released to interim care until he decides. Please keep praying for Keith and Lydia. They are having a really hard time.

More bad news...

2008-01-31T22:23:00.000-06:00

My friends who are adopting the twin girls went to the hospital this morning to pick up one of the babies, and the lady from Bethany met them there. She said that a guy showed up saying he is the father and doesn't know if he wants to give up his parental rights. They thought another guy was the father and were just waiting to get his signed papers back. At least this is what I understand. Obviously, we don't have all the details yet. Anyway, this has been a huge blow because they thought they were done with this part. Please keep them in your prayers. I can't imagine what they must be going through.

Please, please pray for Lissy

2008-01-30T16:17:00.000-06:00

My friend Lissy got her results back from the brain tumor they removed. I am not sure what the name if the tumor is, but is a 4 (on a scale of 1-4) and it will come back at some point. She will start chemo in pill form and radiation five times a week starting next week. They said that the type she has is most common in people over 50 and the life expectancy for that age group is around nine months. But since she is younger and in good health otherwise that she will have longer, but of course they can't make any promises. This was the worst possible news they could've gotten, so you can only imagine where they are right now. Actually, I can't imagine where they are right now. They have two young sons, Kindergarten and third grade I think. Please lift Lissy and Joel in your prayers. They are scared, but they are also people who trust God and know that he can take care of them.

Second blog

2008-01-30T12:32:00.000-06:00

I have started another blog that will be dedicated to my adventures in homeschooling. I am having a hard time seeing what I am getting done, so I thought I would take some time, hopefully each day, to record the day's events. Hopefully, this will hold me accountable to actually doing some work! Anyway, if you want to follow along, the address is www.homeschoolblogger.com/shirley4. This blog will still be here, too.

Ouch...

2008-01-29T14:16:00.000-06:00

I got myself a personal trainer for my birthday. We are getting more then we thought back from the IRS, so I decided to do this. I have been wanting to for a long time. Two of my friends from church were going and we got a group rate. So, we go Tuesdays and Thursdays for 30 minutes. We will do this for nine weeks, and then we can do another session if we want. It is going to be really good, but I can tell that I'll be sore tomorrow. Running is going well, but I haven't been as consistent as I'd like. I am supposed to go Mon, Tues, Wed and Friday. I have missed at least one day each week because of sick kiddos. But hopefully, I can stay on track from now on.

The kids are doing well. School is coming along. Unfortunately, I am having trouble finding a routine, but we're getting there. Jordan will be getting the first phase of orthodontics this month. I think they start with expanders. Anyway, that should be fun. He is so excited about it, but I think that's because he has no idea what he's in for ;)

Campbell is cutting her first tooth finally! She has been soooo fussy today. She still hates baby food. I think it's the texture. Not sure what to do about that. She just started sitting up, which was later than the other babies. I think, because I am busier, I don't have as much time to work with her like I did the others. I am trying to work this "practice time" into our daily schedule.

Well, that about covers it for us. Hope everyone is doing well. I haven't taken any pictures the last couple of weeks. Maybe I'll get some this week.

She signed the papers!!!

2008-01-24T23:26:00.000-06:00

Keith and Lydia are proud parents of twin girls!!! Lilly Beth and Jillian are their names, and they are beautiful!!! Thank you for all your prayers. We can't wait for them to get home!

You can visit them at www.tennesseepartyof5.blogspot.com.

High School Musical

2008-01-24T08:55:00.000-06:00

My dad got tickets to HSM at TPAC. I took Jordan and Claire and they had the best time! Especially Claire. She loves both movies and was so excited! She could hardly contain herself. It didn't start till 7:30, so she was pretty tired when it was over. Towards the end, she kept asking me how many songs were left. She stayed awake, but she was sooo tired. The picture of just her is after the show. Their faces were really red in the others because we had just gotten inside after walking from the restaurant. They were freezing! Hope everyone has a good day.

UPDATE on the twins

2008-01-23T15:56:00.000-06:00

As of right now, the birth mom is going to give the babies to Keith and Lydia, but she doesn't want to sign the papers until Friday. The larger twin will be released from the hospital that day and she wants to be able to call the nursery and get updates on how the babies are doing. But the plan is for her to sign the papers Friday morning. Please continue to pray that this is what will happen. Pray for Keith and Lydia while they wait. Pray for the birth mom, Bridgette, I can't imagine what she is going through. Thanks.

A day in the life...

Campbell sent me an e-mail

Life...

UGH

Been a long time...

What Do I Know of Holy?

Lissy Edmonson...1968-2009

Hair poll...

Wow...I did it!! (longer post than anticipated :))

You're gonna miss this.

We are HOMEOWNERS!!!!!

So incredibly sad...

One overwhelmed mom...

I'm back!!!

Some pics...

Love is...

Great article

Happy Birthday Jordan!!!

So incredibly thankful...

Fireproof

Excellence

PRAISE GOD!!!

Pray for the Malugins!!!

True or false...

Love it!

Weekend

Woo hoo!!!!!!

Remember

Little Elijah

Poor Cam-cam *UPDATE*

Family time

You've Got Mail

My friends need your prayers!!!

Fireproof

62 years

Has anyone seen my confidence?

Help!!!

Funny Luke story...

Body Clutter

Oh Lukey...

Where do I even begin?

First day of school

Possible job opportunity...

We're back!

Blog break

Thank you!

Please pray!

Luke is potty trained!!!

Fashion Fast

Good morning!!

4th of July pictures

Please pray...

I've been tagged!

Beach Pictures

Go vote!!

Update on McHaney

Rescue Center in Haiti

Pray for McHaney!

"The streets of Heaven are far too crowded with angels tonight."

Happy Birthday baby girl!!

Hurry up and wait.

That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger.

Marathon pics part 3

Marathon pics part 2

Country Music Kids Marathon

Claire's caterpillars

Remember

American Idol Shout to The Lord

Be careful little ears what you hear...

I need help!

So scary...

So many thoughts, so little time.

Thoughts...

I did it!

Discovery Center

I need sunshine!

Might as well dance...

Fun

New pictures

Really?

Poor Cam-cam UPDATE