2 Under 2..

My Valentine.

2012-02-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Almost 7 years ago a blond haired boy stole my heart. I thought he was the cutest thing I had ever laid eyes on. I couldn't stop smiling because I couldn't control the butterflies in my stomach whenever I was around him -- or if anyone even mentioned his name.

When I look at the pictures of when we were younger I'm amazed at what I see.

I see a boy who is head over heels for a girl.

I see a girl who is trying to hide her blushes because she can't believe he picked her.

I see such a sweet, innocent, puppy love.

This couple isn't 16 and 19 anymore, but the looks on their faces haven't changed much.

(At least I hope not!)

I still see a boy who is head over heels for his girl.

And I still see a girl who is trying to hide her blushes because she can't believe he still chooses her. Everyday he comes home to her. It's a wonderful feeling.

♥Happy Valentine's Day to my wonderful husband♥

Baby.

2012-02-10T00:11:00.000-07:00

There's a new kid in town.

Meet Baby Olive.

Hello, sweet baby cousin.

Her actual name is Olivia, but because she is so teeny tiny I can't help but call her Baby Olive instead.

Paul and I were reading how every child conceived is a gift. When the majority of pregnancies are unplanned, we as women tend to have a hard time remembering that. But it's true! Every single child is brought into this world for a reason -- God never wastes a life.

Not only do I want to remember that I am a gift, I want to remember that my children are too. When they're dancing together in their room or when they're crying because they're simply mad.. my children are a gift. I look forward to seeing who and what they will become when they grow up.

Happiness

2012-02-07T22:31:00.000-07:00

The kids have been put to bed for the night. Paul is playing with his new computer he just purchased for work. And I, of course, am looking at pictures of my kids.

When I look at the pictures I have taken throughout the day I am so thankful that my kids are happy.

Apparently Paul and I are doing something right because there is pure joy in these faces.

I don't ever want to take a picture of one of my children and look back and realize they are not happy. I want to ALWAYS make sure they are happy, secure, and safe.

I feel like I can't even go to the store anymore without feeling broken hearted watching the sad children walk by because their parents forget to show them the love they need.

I'm sure you all have seen the video on YouTube about the people with the signs that read FREE HUGS. I cannot tell you how many times I've wanted to make my own sign and walk around. Can you imagine what ONE HUG could do for a person's day? I know it would change mine around completely.

What more can I do to bring happiness to this world?

Do I really need to make a FREE HUGS sign?

I want more people to feel the happiness and joy I feel on a daily basis. It's not just because of my kids -- it's because I have Jesus.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Wide awake

2012-02-03T04:25:00.001-07:00

Heavenly Father, You know the reason why I'm awake at this hour. I pray that you touch my husband and children tonight -- help them to get the rest they need and to be well in body. I pray you will also give me peace and assurance that all is well within my home and I can have peace in falling asleep. But while I'm awake, I pray that you will touch all of my family and friends. You know what each individual is going through. If someone needs a special touch from you tonight, I pray it be so. If there is someone who needs special prayer tonight, I hope they feel this one for them -- whatever the situation may be. Thank you for already answering prayer. Thank you for loving us so much to hear our every need and answer accordingly. Love and prayers, Me

Mommy Kisses

2012-01-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

Every stage of Zoe and Max's life has been so much fun for me! It's hard to pick a favorite because they simply get more and more fun the older they get.

I can tell Zoe is going to be a great big sister. She is constantly toting around a "baby" on her shoulder and soothing them with the softest tone in her little voice. I love it! When Max cries, she comes running and patting his leg or tummy and trying to soothe him. It makes my heart simply burst with joy!

Zoe is getting old enough to play tea parties. It is her new favorite past time -- especially since her teapot sings and makes the pouring sounds. We drink cup after cup, oh, and we never forget to "cheers." As a matter of fact, I had to take a mini tea break just now. =) It's been a great way to teach her manners without her even knowing it.

Max is definitely "talking" more. He has discovered some new noises and has been using them most of the day. It is SO cute. There are some times I think he's crying so I go to pick him up, and then I realize he's just trying out his new voice. He is so adorable.

He loves to grab at things. I have also discovered he is a face toucher. =) I was wrestling with him last night, pretending like I was eating his tummy, and he had such a strong grip on my face and hair.. squealing the whole time! He's starting to get to the stage where he enjoys playing with Zoe and I. We've had a lot of fun.

Zoe is the most happy morning person I have ever met in my life! She sings the minute she wakes. Also, she has a collection of stuffed toys in her bed that I hear her play with before I get her up. It's so much fun to hear her make her babies "talk" over the baby monitor! It's so great!

Not too long ago Zoe came walking into the kitchen crying because she somehow hurt herself. I kissed the owies away on her fingers and she immediately jumped into my arms and gave me the biggest hug! I love being a mom and having the "power" to make my kids feel better by a simple kiss. I remember my mom doing the same for me. It was the BEST feeling in the world, knowing your mom "healed" your owies with her magical kiss.

I appreciate everyday that I have with my kids.

I appreciate when Zoe pulls me by the hand and wants me to dance to the same song for hours.

I appreciate when both kids want on my lap so I let them -- sacrificing all visibility.. just smelling their hair and tickling their necks.

I appreciate the big smiles I get from Max.

I appreciate the giggles.

I APPRECIATE MY KIDS.

I have received another reward!

2012-01-24T22:46:00.001-07:00

Amy from Whatcha Talkin Bout Willis was kind enough to give me this:

I decided to share the love of this award as well, so I will follow the rules..

Liebster is German for "dearest" or "beloved" but it can also mean "favorite." The idea behind the Liebster award is to bring attention to blogs with less than 200 followers.

As part of receiving the Liebster Blog award, one is to:

1. Choose 5 blogs with fewer than 200 followers to grant the Liebster Blog award.

2. Show appreciation to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them!

3. Post the award on your blog and link back to the blogs you have given the Liebster Blog award to so everyone else can pay them a visit!

And my 5 blogs are...

Jessa -- Jessa has been married for almost 3 years and is currently pregnant with their second child. God is blessing her and her family immensely and it is great fun to be able to read about it and see her pictures!
Rob -- Rob is a guy who is extremely passionate about the work for the Lord. I know he would love if you visited his site, so why don't you go on over and check it out! He is currently hosting a leadership workshop on his blog, and let me tell you, what I have been able to read is a blessing! I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Ryan Nicole -- Nicole is actually my cousin -- thanks to my husband! ;-) Her blog is so inspirational when it comes to crafts, interior decorating, food, you name it! She also has her own shop on Etsy, so why don't you check it out!
LeAnndra -- It seems like whenever I read LeAnndra's blog I can relate to 99% of what she's saying or how she feels. She's another young momma who loves her adorable son so very much and is trying to make the best of every day. You're doing great, Lee!
Tiffany -- Though she hasn't been on her blog in 7 months, I figured she needed an award too! :-) When she DOES post I find them very interesting. I love reading about her family!

So there you have it! Thanks again, Amy, from Whatcha Talkin Bout Willis for the award!!

Dear God..

2012-01-20T00:01:00.003-07:00

Thanks for this beautiful life and forgive me if I don't love it enough.

It is too easy to fall into the trap of wanting THINGS.

I have big dreams about what I want when we can afford it, what trips we will take, what "toys" we may even buy.

What comes with the trap of wanting things is the feeling of ungratefulness.

Our clothes appear more dingy, the furniture may seem out-of-date, you may even find yourself jealous of others and their things.

The saying is SO true:

The grass is greener on the other side.

But take a look at what you have on YOUR side of the fence.

For me, I have a handsome, hard-working husband who loves me very much, and -- as you can see from all of my pictures -- two beautiful, happy children.

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."

(Proverbs 31:28)

I. LOVE. MY. LIFE.

I hope you feel the same way about the life God has given you and the people who are in it.

I'm not givin' up!

2012-01-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

Source: littlefancynancy.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Paul and I both decided it's time to work out and get our bodies back into shape. He worked out with weights and I attempted to do zumba. I did about 10 minutes worth because I was tired of bumping into kids and hearing them cry the. whole. time.

Our winter has been CRAZY this year -- hardly any snow and it's been in the 40's and 50's with an occasional day that's chilly. Maybe I should take advantage of it while I can? I can start walking.. but I'd have to wait till Paul is home because I don't think I want the kids out in this weather.

I'm not givin' up!

I will continue to wake up early, zumba and/or walk and jog, and I will start to lose weight! I'm ready to look and feel amazing. I want to try on clothes and WOW my husband.

What are you not giving up on??

This is the start of something good

2012-01-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

::The Start of Something Good::

(Yes, that is a song from High School Musical)

Paul will be graduating this May with two Bachelors under his belt. If I could be completely honest, I wasn't too thrilled with Paul going to college after we got married. I especially didn't like it when it meant him going to college in Havre, MT which meant me moving away from my family.

I wont deny that I moved here with bitterness in my heart and it took me a long while to get over my "issues" and openly admit that I knew God wanted us here for many, many reasons. Though I miss my family dearly, I hope they admire Paul and I for being the workers we need to be for the Lord.

While Paul has been in college we had a family. There were a few times Paul considered dropping out because we didn't know how we could afford a family on the income we were bringing in. But there was NO WAY I was going to let him do that -- and deep down I knew he knew he needed to keep on working hard in school. We knew our sacrifices would pay off one day.

Paul will be starting his last semester this Wednesday. This will probably be his hardest semester so, if you think about him, please keep him in your prayers that God will help him in his classes. I will be having a hard time myself this semester because I don't know how much I will see of him since he will literally be gone ALL DAY either at work or at school, but I know that May will come sooner then I think and then it will be all over..

Though our sacrifices haven't quite paid off yet, I know it's coming sooner rather than later. God is so good to provide for our needs and I'm so thankful for everything He has done for Paul and I already in the nearly 4 years we've been married!

I feel like God has been speaking to my heart a lot lately. After lots of prayer, planning, trying to back out, and more prayer, I have decided to host a ladies prayer group in my home every Friday at 6:00 pm. I'm excited to see what God has in store for the women of Havre!

There will be so much more that happens in the year of 2012, I know it, but these are the two most exciting ones as of right now.

Happy New Year to everyone! Can't wait to hear about the blessings God bestows upon you and your families!

A dream is a wish your heart makes..

2011-12-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

The year 2012 is going to be a big one for our little family. One of the biggest events will be Paul is graduating from MSU-N with two bachelors - one in graphic design, the other in liberal studies. We will be nearing our next chapter in our life, and the main question we have is..

What dreams will we accomplish after college?

This question also got me thinking about another question..

What are my dreams?!

And then it hit me. My dreams have already come true.

My first dream to come true was becoming a wife.

I married my best friend four years ago this coming February. I cannot imagine living my life without him. We have been through so much together already - him losing his oldest brother as well as his grandfather, me moving thousands of miles away from my family and everything I knew, him being a college student, us losing our first baby to a miscarriage, working hard in our local church, buying our first house, the list goes on. We have kept busy these past four years, that's for sure!

I am so thankful God brought Paul into my life. He is the most amazing man in the world. I honestly cannot imagine me being with anyone else - nor do I want to!

I had a couple other dreams come true too..

My second dream to come true was being a mom.

I remember when I was pregnant with Zoe and people would love to tell me the worst stories about children. Afterward they would tag on, "Just you wait and see." I don't understand why so many love to discourage new mothers when the good most definitely outweighs the bad when it comes to mothering!

Now that I have two under the age of 2 life is a little harder. And a little more hectic. But I wouldn't have it any other way! The sleepless nights are 100% worth it!

I love giggling with my babies and getting little Max smiling and squealing, wrestling with Zoe or chasing her through the house with my "tickle monster."

I love watching Sesame Street with both kids in my lap.

Baby Goldfish for snack time.

I love all the little things that involve being a mom!

I don't know what all God has in store for my little family in the year 2012, but I do know this:

I am already so blessed with a wonderful marriage, and wonderful kids. If no other dreams come true, the best ones already did - and I have that much to thank God for.

I hope and pray everyone has an amazing and blessed new year. May God be with each one who reads this blog and bless you and your family!

If you don't have something nice to say..

2011-12-29T15:35:00.001-07:00

Or you simply don't have anything to say AT ALL ... then maybe you shouldn't be writing a post, huh?

I am completely lost on what to talk about on here.

We had a GREAT Christmas! Paul and I spent Christmas morning with our children. It was a lot of fun watching Zoe open her gifts -- and to watch Max's eyes get big when we would show him what he got.

Afterward we spend the day with Paul's side of the family opening gifts, eating tons of food, and playing games. It was a very nice day.

The holidays are over and a brand new year is literally days away. Any new year's resolutions?

I can't say that I have any resolutions this year, but I always have a list of things to try and accomplish everyday and every year.

Continue to draw closer to the Lord. Everyday I try my best to keep God first in everything I say and do. It's a work in progress, but I try to always read my Bible and/or devotions in the morning before doing anything else. When I accomplish this task I realize I am slow(er) to anger, more patient, and simply happier and at peace with my life and what I'm doing throughout the day.
Live in a more organized home. Just like my morning devotions, this is a work in progress EVERY DAY. When I was still living at home, and single, I was amazingly organized. Now that I'm married and have children that quality has KINDA been thrown out the window. I try so hard everyday to be clean and organized. I hope and pray that one day my organization will kick in (again) and it will be easier for me.
Be healthy. Since Paul and I are taking a break from having kids for a little while, I would love to lose weight and be what I used to be. I'm already on the right track and I feel great! I was given Zumba for Wii and I know that will most definitely help me continue to lose weight and feel better about myself - not to mention I will probably learn some awesome dance moves!
Spend time with my growing family. I didn't have kids so someone else could take care of them. As soon as I was pregnant with Zoe I started daydreaming of all the wonderful things we could do together! Now that I have two, that means double the fun for Paul and I! I anticipate this upcoming year to bring lots of fun memories with our kids. Taking walks in our neighborhood, lunches at the park, walking to Story Time, spending the day in the mountains, at a lake, or even in Great Falls. Not to mention the fun things we can do around our house - crafts, playing outside, coloring, etc. I can't wait!
Pick up a hobby. I never learned how to knit, crochet, sew, or anything crafty like that. So I plan on learning some stuff soon! I have a sewing machine and I can't wait to try it out!

Do you have a wish list? I'd love to read about it!

Where I've been

2011-12-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

In case anyone was wondering why I haven't been posting lately it's because I've been busy..

Leaving on a jet plane to see my parents!

This was Zoe's second time on an airplane and Max's first. They both did extremely well considering our flight was over an hour late.

We arrived a few days before my Dad and brothers got home from their revivals in Arkansas, so we spent some time with MY Papa -- Zoe and Max's Great Pops.

Zoe was a little shy at first, but it didn't take long for her to warm up to people -- especially her Uncle Tommy! They were great buds, and as you can see by this picture, he was very kind to share every popsicle with her.

Grandma Bunny -- Zoe and Max's great-great grandmother -- enjoyed some snuggle time with Max every once in awhile. Zoe was a little harder to catch so she just watched her toddle around. =)

When Dad and the boys finally got home we all met them on the driveway. They arrived 45 minutes early and we were VERY excited! This is my Dad's first time meeting his grandson. I'm not ashamed to say I cried in my heart when he finally got to hold him.

The boys were excited to meet him as well. They love to "look" just like him.

While there we enjoyed an early Christmas and exchanged gifts amongst ourselves. Max was very excited, can you tell?

Zoe, on the other hand, really WAS excited! She got a lot of great things. Here she is showing off her new Elmo book and washcloth -- just add water!

Max "opening" his washcloth.

After Christmas #1 we all headed to the park to take family pictures. It was a lot of fun! We all laughed extremely hard at Tommy and Dad trying to backflip off the swing. Let's just say that heights got the best of them. =)

Here are some pictures I was able to take with my phone.

Here are the boys!

And the girls!

We couldn't have Christmas without Momma's sugar cookies. As you can see, Uncle Jake and Zoe helped with the frosting.

Zoe playing at the park!

We also enjoyed Glendale Glitters one night. It was a lot of fun -- though the locals were freezing. Hee hee!

I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed being home with my family around the holiday season. I'm thankful they were able to be apart of some of their grandkid's new Christmas experiences. Maybe one day we will actually be there on Christmas DAY! A girl can dream..

Today is Christmas Eve. I have a house to get ready, cookies to frost, pies to bake, presents to wrap, nativity scenes to cut out.. I better go!

Have yourself a Merry little Christmas..

Words.

2011-12-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

When I saw this picture it made my eyes well up. I cannot tell you how many times I've simply said Jesus' name and that was all I could get out. Instead of words I let my tears explain exactly how I feel. There have been many, many times that I've just poured my heart out to God and not utter one word because I simply don't know what to say.

What is troubling your heart tonight? What do you need Jesus to take care of in your life? Do you need someone to pray for you?

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.. (finally)

2011-12-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

We did it.

After planning for a week and a half, we finally did it.

After church Paul and I came home and spent the rest of the evening decorating our house for Christmas. Isn't the outside just cute?! Paul was such a huge help by hanging the lights outside..

..as well as garland and lights inside! Our little living room is pretty much full since we bought our brand new couch, so there is no room for a Christmas tree. So we improvised! We have garland and lights wrapped all the way around the living room. It looks SO nice! And as you can see, our stockings are hung by the chimney with care. ;)

Max still needs a stocking. The red one is just standing in till we find one we like for him.

My little Coca-Cola Christmas village!

And my beautiful Precious Moments Nativity scene. We will most likely get a Veggie Tales Nativity scene for Zoe and Max to play with.

Paul made TWO Christmas wreaths -- one for the inside of the door and one to hang outside. Isn't he so crafty? Someone has to be in this family!

I am so in love with our little house! I'm so thankful Paul and I finally had a chance to decorate it. I absolutely love this time of year! The pretty lights, the excitement about what you bought your loved ones, the coffee (I'm always excited about that!), the carols, the story of Jesus' birth. I love everything about it!

Making change

2011-11-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Source: healthylivingforyou.tumblr.com via Maria on Pinterest

The other day I noticed that Netflix had The Biggest Loser seasons. I always wanted to watch that show, but never got around to doing it. Well, one day I decided it was time to watch the first season. I have watched 4-5 episodes so far and I think I'm hooked.

I was looking at myself in the mirror afterward. Yes, I did just have 2 babies in 2 years, but I'm feeling a little flubby. I'm definitely not that hot, petite, size 6 girl Paul married 4 years ago. I want to get back to that -- as close as I can anyways.

This morning, instead of my morning coffee, I grabbed some water and my iPhone. Thanks to all the apps they have on there I was able to find a workout that suits where I am right now, AND I have a calorie counter.

I know this is just the first day, but I already feel so much better about myself. Instead of complaining to my husband about not feeling attractive, I'm doing something about it! I know it will take a little time, since I have NO ab muscles whatsoever, but I know that everyday will count for something.

I know I'm starting this at a crazy time -- what with holiday snacks and desserts all over the place -- but what better time to start? There is temptation all over the place and I need to learn to make wise decisions. I can do this. I want to be healthy and fit.

I Am..

2011-11-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Hayley on Pinterest

Paul and I were talking the other day, and I told him I was having an identity crisis. I didn't know who I was as a person, or where I fit in.

I'm not the musical one. I'm not very smart. I don't have time to be a book worm anymore. Who am I? What am I supposed to be doing in life?

Source: kikicreates.blogspot.com via Jengerbread on Pinterest

And then Paul said one of the most sweetest things I could ever hear.

"You don't get it, do you? You stay home all day taking care of babies, doing your best to take care of the house, cooking meals, changing countless poopy diapers, and you have a smile on your face while you do it. Because you're a mother."

"Anyone can be a mom, but it takes a special person to be a mother. You love to spend time with your kids, you love unconditionally and give them plenty of hugs and kisses to make sure they know. Not just anyone is a mother because it takes work, and most don't want to take the time. But you do, and your children love you for it. That's the best thing a person could ever be."

Source: imgfave.com via Emily on Pinterest

Paul also said that he always looks forward to coming home at night. He loves to have his wife and kids rush to welcome him with hugs and kisses. So I guess I'm a pretty good wife too, huh?

I Am.. a Mother. My husband and my kids fit in my arms perfectly, like a puzzle piece. How could I have an identity crisis after that?

Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-11-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

The alarm went off at 7:00 a.m. and I turned it off, without even opening my eyes, and rolled over and pretended I didn't hear it ring.

Yep, it's Monday again. No more sleeping in. It's time to go back to school and work. Time to get back on a schedule and not be lazy. Thanksgiving break is over!

Here are a few shots from Thanksgiving day that I took before we headed out..

Aren't those cute?

Yesterday afternoon Paul and I headed out to go to church and noticed we had a flat tire. ::ugh:: Paul put on the spare and we headed to church. Afterward we went to Walmart and had it fixed. While it was being fixed Paul and I did some Christmas shopping! It was very exciting to buy things for people -- especially our kids! They both happened to be asleep so we bought everything without them seeing. So they really will be surprised when they see them Christmas morning!

Hopefully tonight Paul and I can decorate the house for Christmas. We shall see. It's about the only thing I'm looking forward to on this dreadful Monday! ::wink wink::

Oh, make sure to stop by soon because I plan on hosting A Day in Pictures to kinda show you what all goes down in the Alexander house. I think it will be fun. I've seen other ladies do it on their blogs and I loved reading and seeing what they do during the day.

Happy Monday!

So much to be thankful for

2011-11-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

I have A LOT to be thankful for this year, but three things come to mind right off the bat.

My husband. I have been in love with him since I was 16. He is the most handsome man I have ever seen! Bradley Cooper has NOTHING on my man! =) Paul has a wonderful attitude towards life. He always knows just what to say to calm me down whenever I get irritated, or just the right words to make me feel better when I'm blue. I love to accidentally stumble upon him reading the Bible or praying, because it shows me how much he loves the Lord and wants to be the leader of his family when it comes to worship. I can't wait for this last semester of college to be over so I can see more of my best friend!
Zoe. =) She definitely spoiled Paul and I by being the most perfect baby. The only time she is upset is when there is a legitimate problem, otherwise she is the happiest, funniest little girl around! From the moment she wakes up she is laughing and singing. I love to listen to her over the baby monitor. The way she crinkles her nose when she smiles melts my heart! She is my little kitten -- she's affectionate when she wants to be. =)
Baby Max. My son gets more and more handsome every single day. He's starting to smile more and more and every time he does you can see his whole face light up and he has the most adorable dimples! I don't know for sure what Max will be like when he grows up, but I can only imagine he will be like his sister and be bubbly and happy all the time. They love each other so much already, so I know they will be best friends when he gets old enough.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

Anxiety

2011-11-21T10:35:00.001-07:00

Source: everythingfab.tumblr.com via Sandy on Pinterest

Here lately I have been struggling with anxiety attacks.

I've struggled with them probably my whole life,

and I don't know where they come from.

I have a hard time breathing.

My left side and chest go numb and tingly.

I feel anxious and don't know why.

All of my life I have struggled with certain "phobias."

One of them being I have to pysche myself out just to answer the phone,

even if it's someone I love.

I have to REALLY pysche myself out if I have to call anyone,

especially strangers.

I'm so thankful my husband and family try and help me whenever I feel this way.

They shower me with encouraging words and scriptures to calm my jittery nerves.

I've also been watching and listening to light-hearted movies and music.

What are you thankful for that your family does for you?

Date night

2011-11-16T23:03:00.000-07:00

Last night I got a phone call.

It was from my husband.

He told me clear my schedule for the evening because we were going out.

Just the two of us.

I love date nights.

They don't happen very often, and that's ok, but when we do have a chance to go out we go to a nice restaurant -- Mexican or Chinese -- and we just talk.

After our meal has been paid for and it's time to leave, we get a little crazy..

A little risky, you might say..

We go to Walmart. And hold hands.

Family Time

2011-11-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

Every week I push myself hard when it comes to my job on the computer. From the time I get up in the morning, to the time I make dinner, and then after dinner till I go to bed it seems like I'm glued to my seat in front of this blaring screen.

Zoe walked over to me and laid her head on my lap and patted my leg. For some reason when she did that it was like a lightbulb turned on in my mind. I was neglecting family time.

So I pushed away from the computer and played with my kids.

We listened to Dad play his guitar, watched Sesame Street, danced to music, Zoe took a bubble bath with her duckies, watched the snow fall outside, cleaned out Zoe's bedroom, cuddled Max, laughed till we cried at the dinner table. It was the most fulfilling day I've had in a long time. I feel like I accomplished more yesterday despite not working at my job from dusk till dawn.

When I put the babies to bed at night, I worked while Paul did his homework, and I am ahead for the week. What do you know? When you prioritize, everything falls into place.

Now, if you will excuse me, Zoe is going to help me organize the living room.

On the mend

2011-11-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

This past weekend the whole family got very, very sick. Even the little babies were throwing up. This momma didn't get any sleep for 3 days. Zoe and I slept on the couch one night, with poor little Zoe throwing up every half hour. I stayed up most the night just watching my little girl and praying God touch her body. I'm so glad this sickness is over!

Now that things are back to normal, I'm going to try and keep up with this blog (again). Here are a few pictures from the past couple of weeks.

Check out the awesome leg warmers!

Like mother, like daughter

Zoe LOVES to read to Max in her own way

Everything is her baby right now. She will be a wonderful mother one day.

Have a wonderful Monday, everyone!

30 Days of Thanks

2011-11-03T10:19:00.000-06:00

Day 3

Zoe & Max

Ah.. my beautiful children! Zoe has such a bubbly personality -- you can't help but smile and feel overjoyed when you look at her. If you're on her good side, she'll shower you with kisses and hugs that include patting your back. Even though Max is still going through a crying stage, I can't help but feel my heart swell with love when I look into his handsome face. He is my little heart throb!

30 Days of Thanks

2011-11-02T10:48:00.002-06:00

Day 2

My husband

I'm thankful for my husband. I still get butterflies around him like I did when I was 16. He works extremely hard for our family without asking much in return. I love watching him be a dad, and how he wrestles with Zoe almost as soon as he gets home. He's all I could ever ask for, and so much more.

Starting something new

2011-11-01T16:02:00.000-06:00

I thought it would be a good idea to start 30 Days of Thanks and make sure to post at least one thing I'm thankful for for the next 30 days. If I like it so much, I just might continue on after the 30 days are over! We'll see.

Day 1

My parents.

Even though I'm an adult and have a family of my own I still look up to them in so many ways. When it comes to spiritual things, marriage, raising children, having confidence, and standing up for what is right in the world.. they have given me A LOT of pointers and I love and appreciate them so much!