The Business of Being Mama

2013 Recap

2014-04-26T21:02:00.001-07:00

December 31, 2013

At the risk of sounding cliche, 2013 was another great year for our family. There is something about the new year that begs for reflection. And as I've thought about this past year, it kind of leaves me breathless.

I sometimes take for granted this life I live. Sometimes I get so caught up in packing lunches, and wiping noses, and cleaning floors, and just the daily grind, that I forget to just really soak it all in.

And then, in those quiet moments of reflection, it all comes pouring down.

Memories creep up, emotion washes over because this life we have - it is good.

Really good.

That's not to say that it's all sunshine and rainbows. No, it can definitely get exhausting, and we struggle, and we shed tears.

But those storms are fleeting, and they help us to appreciate the sunshine and rainbows even more.

In 2013, we got to celebrate a lot.

We celebrated birthdays 6, 5, and 2.

We celebrated 9 years of marriage.

We celebrated our Savior, Jesus Christ.

We celebrated family, school years coming to an end, and new ones beginning.

And then we played.

We played in the snow.

We played in the sand.

We played in the water, and we played in the waves.

And then, in the middle of all that celebrating and playing, we packed lunches, and wiped noses, and cleaned floors, and completed a million other tasks that I take for granted.

But, they are a very important part of this life as well. It's all these moments: the big ones, the small ones, the good ones, and the tough ones that make up this life of our's.

And, when all those temporary struggles are gone, we are left with joy, and laughter, and love.

Emma Kate - Five

2014-04-20T20:19:00.002-07:00

October 2, 2013

Dear Emma Kate,

In honor of you turning a full high FIVE today, I thought this year's birthday letter should concentrate on that important number.

Five Things You Did in the Past Year:
1. You went to cheer camp for the first time. You had been begging since Grace first started going, and this year was finally your year. You cheered, jumped, stunted, and tumbled your way through the week with a smile and a "5, 6, 7, 8.."

2. You went to the beach not once, but twice! We had so much fun on our family trip to Okaloosa Island and on our girl (plus Reece) trip to St. Simons Island. You are a natural beach girl!

3. You began reading. Right now, we're working on sight words, and you can sound out those CVC words like a champ! I can't wait to see where this new skill takes you!

4. You started Pre-K. My big girl at big girl school - WOW! You are in love with your teachers Ms. Keshia and Ms. Krissie. Your favorite things about pre-k are the art center, story time, and getting to pack your lunch. You are not in love with rest time, but what's new?

5. You won Miss Apple Seedling. You were cute as a button in your yellow "Belle" dress, and you loved getting to play dress up!

Five Things I Love About You:
1. Your laugh. You have got this deep, belly laugh that can light the darkest night. You laugh at everything. Even when it's not appropriate. Don't ever stop.

2. Your love of cuddling. You crave affection, and we are more than happy to give it. You have always been a cuddle bug and you love to "tickle noses". I love when your little arms (that seem to be getting longer by the day) reach up to me and request to be held. See, even though you are 5 years old now, you are still my baby.

3. Your free spirit. EK, marching to the beat of your own drummer is an understatement. You have your own opinions, your own passions, and you don't let other people sway you. Though it can be frustrating when we're rushing out the door in the mornings, I am certain that this is going to pay off one day when peer pressure threatens to creep in.

4. Your obsession with orange. No pink for my girl! Orange is your favorite color. To be honest, I have always despised orange. Never owned anything orange; the orange from my Sharpee set was shoved into my desk drawer the first year I started teaching. But thanks to you, I think it's a beautiful color. I find myself looking for orange things to buy you, want to find ways to incorporate orange into your life, and notice I'm drawn to orange now because it reminds me of you. Birthday number five is themed orange at your request. Orange decorations, orange food, orange party favors, orange, orange, orange.

5. Your wit. Girl, you have a comeback for everything! Some of those comebacks I'm embarrassed to write out, but ask your Papa or your Pop someday.

Five Hopes and Wishes I Have for You
1. Never stop believing you can do anything or be anything.

2. Never lose your love for learning.

3. Have a life containing more laughter than tears.

4. Always have a close relationship with your sister and brother.

5. Most importantly, accept Jesus as your personal savior and live your life for His glory.

My sweet girl, these five years have flown by. You are a constant reminder in our family not to take things too seriously, and to always have time for a hug. I love you with all my heart.

Mama

Reece - Two

2014-04-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

August 20, 2013

Dear Reece,

Tonight as I held you as you went to sleep, I watched you. I watched your little hands go limp, your eyes flutter before finally closing, and I watched your chest rise and fall in a slow, sleepy pattern. This has been routine for the last 729 nights.

Tomorrow it shall be 730 days.

Two years.

Each night as we go through our routine, and I study your little face, the plumpness of your cheeks, the speed at which your hair grows, the shape of your little nose, the familiarity of this little face I love so much, I don't really notice all the changes.

Not quite as they are happening anyway. I don't notice that your legs are a little longer than the day before, your feet a little quicker, your hands a little bigger. No, these things sneak up on me and hit me like a ton of bricks. Like when I put on your shoes that I know had plenty of room last week, and they suddenly squeeze your toes a little too much, and you tell me "hurt!" Or when you make your cars and trucks into a line and I realize you weren't organizing like that yesterday! Or when you bust out a string of new words, or are involved in a game with your sisters, or pretending to be a football player. That's when I notice a change has occurred. That's when I realize you have made that great leap from being a baby to being a little boy.

You are a little boy who loves running, bugs, tractors, dirt, playing ball of any kind, sticks, trucks, cuddling, and milk. You love to rub your face on bare skin; you love to pick out your own underwear each day. That's right! You are potty trained and wear big boy underwear! You love to swim, ride on tractors, lawn mowers, or anything that goes. You love to show others how much love you have to give, doling out hugs and cuddles freely.

Tomorrow, when you turn 2 years old, we will celebrate all of these things. All of the things we love about our wild, mischievous, funny, cuddly little boy.

Happy second birthday.

Love,
Mama

Grace - Six

2013-03-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Grace,

We have just wrapped up a whole week of celebrating you turning six.

Six.

That's only one year older than 5. Just one bigger number. But something about 6 seems so much more. Six requires 2 hands, and I admit, I'm having a hard time with you turning 6. Birthdays 1-5 were exciting, but 6 is different. Six is no longer a baby. Not even a little kid. Six is a bona fide big kid. Over the past few days, I've teared up more than once. I hear you reading or see you standing at the kitchen sink washing your hands, and emotion washes over me.

Sadness because you are no longer that newborn baby that taught me the joy of smelling freshly bathed baby skin. You are no longer that smiling little muffin that toddled her way across our old living room for the first time. You are not even the tiny girl who insisted on skirts every day for over a year.

Pride because of the person you are becoming. Grace, you are beautiful inside and out. When I see you playing with classmates regardless of the color of their skin, their gender, or their mental abilities, it reminds me that carefree goodness is alive and well. You are growing into this little person who is realizing the effects her actions and words have on people.

You have had a big, big year! you saw the ocean for the first time, rode a horse for the first time, lost your first tooth, and learned to swim without floaties. You have shown bravery and tenacity. Last April, when you broke your arm, you hardly shed any tears. Not because you weren't in pain, but because you have this ability to show grace in stressful situations. Even when the doctor told us about the surgery you would need, the anesthesia, and all these things that were foreign and scary to me, an adult, you, the 5 year old didn't waver in your bravery.

Last fall, when you learned to read, it's like this sponge emerged, and it hasn't stopped soaking in all the words it can! You read every chance you get. When we're at home, there's often a book in your hand. When we're in the grocery store, you're reading every aisle sign. When we're driving down the road, you're reading every sign and billboard. I am so excited for you because this whole new world has been opened up to you!

When you started kindergarten, you and I began a new phase in our bond. We get to share a new special time together. We have such great conversations during the car rides to and from school, and I am so proud getting to walk down the hallways of the school with my daughter. Those notes you leave on my desk or in my mailbox in the workroom that read "I love you, Mama" simply make my day.

It seems that each week, your jeans get shorter. I keep telling you to slow down growing, and every time, you give me that same tilt of your head and big grin, reminding me that it's not your fault; God is making you grow. So, we'll keep buying new jeans and try to soak in every moment.

You have so many special qualities, my dear girl. You are beautiful, and special, and kind. You are compassionate, funny, and smart. You are my daughter. My first born. You are six.

Happy Birthday, Dear Grace.

Mama

Valentine's Day 2013

2013-03-08T20:47:00.000-08:00

On Valentine's Day, I was supposed to be writing a paper on the Ithkuil language (Google it when you're having trouble sleeping). But instead, I was watching my Love Bugs scamper and squeal their way through our house on a scavenger hunt to find their Valentines. Instead, I was having pizza by candle light. Instead, I was thinking about the ones I love.

This One that I love taught me about being a mother. She keeps me full of pride over her accomplishments and the compassion that is growing in her heart. This One loves to read, play outside, and dress "fancy". This One has hands that are capable of much beyond her years.

This One that I love is full of laughter. She loves to laugh and make others laugh. This One is my cuddle bug. She makes my heart swell when she talks about Jesus and proclaims the gospel. This One loves to play with baby dolls, be read to, and says she loves me a little more than brownies. Considering her affection for brownies, I'll take that.

This One that I love is thisclose to being spoiled rotten. He is babied by his sisters, his grandparents, his aunts and uncles, and maybe just a little bit by his mama and daddy. This One loves to rub my face as he falls asleep. He loves to pinch his sisters' legs when he spies them getting dressed. He loves big trucks, horses, and playing ball.

And, this One that I love: He is my best friend. My soul mate. He and I share this life that is so much more than I could have ever dreamed. I thank God daily that He chose this One as mine.

Our Top 12 of 2012

2013-03-08T20:17:00.001-08:00

1. The Littles' First Trip to the Beach
In April when our family went to Disney World, we spent one day at the beach. It was the first time 30 little toes had been sunk in sand, the first time 3 little mouths tasted salt water, the first time we got to hear the shrieks of our Littles as they enjoyed the ocean.

2. Emma Kate's Idol Came to Life

It's no secret Emma Kate has had a fascination with Snow White since she first heard of princesses. So, when she learned we were going to Disney World, her number 1 goal became talking to the "real" Snow White. The look of awe on EK's face when Snow White put her arm around her was well worth the dehydration that nearly occurred as a result of waiting in line.

3. Grace's Broken Arm
When Grace fell on her arm at tumbling and barely made a whimper, I thought, okay, let's get that baby iced, wrapped, and rested. When we got home and I could see the angle her elbow jutted out, I thought, a broken arm, that's okay. Not our first rodeo. When the ER doc told us we needed to transfer to a children's hospital because it would need surgery, I felt my first streak of panic. My baby was going to need surgery?? Anesthesia?? But, Grace handled it like a pro. She barely shed a tear throughout the entire process. As long as she was informed of what was happening at each step in the process, she was able to deep breathe her way through. And, when she woke up with an arm plastered in pink sparkles, she smiled and wanted to know if she could get to school in time for the Earth Day parade. I am so proud of this brave girl that I get to call my daughter. Someone needs to remind her she's only 5 though and tell her to stop growing so fast.

4. Reece Learned to Walk
At a mere 10 months old, our Baby Boy took off, and hasn't slowed down since!

5. Littles 1 and 2 Learned to Swim
Grace and Emma Kate have always loved the water. Swimming without floaties came fairly easy last summer through swim lessons. Ms. Myra taught them how to blow bubbles so that water wouldn't get up their noses, swim, dive, and be safe in the water.

6. Daisy and Toby
It's no secret that I am not an animal person. It's not that I dislike them, it's just that I don't really get into them. But, a friend giving us 2 itty bitty cutie pie kittens changed that. Grace came up with their names - Daisy and Toby. The girls love them with a capital L.O.V.E. And, Reece is intrigued, but only on his own terms. Apparently, we are animal people after all.

7. Grace Started Kindergarten
One of my favorite parts of being a teacher - getting to take my daughter with me to school every day.

8. Reece Turned a Year Old
How did this happen??

9. Emma Kate Started Preschool
Finally her turn! Emma Kate has been waiting to start school ever since Grace got her first back pack. She goes 2 mornings a week to a Mother's Morning Out Preschool, and loves every second!

10. Grace Learned to Read
She knew all her letters, etc. when kindergarten started, and could tell you the first sound in words, but she now just picks up books and runs with it! I am so excited that this new world has been opened up to her!

11. Halloween
We had our very own Wizard of Oz cast for Halloween this year.

12. Christmas
Once again, we had a magical Christmas getting together with family, spoiling each other with presents and food, and most importantly - celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Emma Kate's Birthday Interview - Four

2013-01-03T19:39:00.001-08:00

What is your favorite color?  Pink

What is your favorite toy?  My Snow White doll

What is your favorite fruit?  Brownies (Whatever, we'll revisit the food groups later)

What is your favorite tv show?  Dr shows and Fresh Beat Band

What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch?  Cheese Sandwich

What is your favorite outfit?  Cheerleader shorts and tank top

What is your favorite game?  Candy Land

What is your favorite snack?  Brownies

What is your favorite animal?  Cats

What is your favorite song?  "Set Fire to the Rain"

What is your favorite book?  Is Your Mama a Llama?

Who is your best friend?  "Gwace"

What is your favorite cereal?  Lucky Charms, but just the marshmallows

What is your favorite thing to do outside?  Swim

What is your favorite drink?  Milk

What is your favorite holiday?  Christmas

What do you take to bed at night?  Nothing

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Cinnamon rolls

What do you want for dinner on your birthday?  Spaghetti

What do you want to be when you grow up?  A mama

Emma Kate - Four

2013-01-03T19:15:00.000-08:00

October 2, 2012

Dear Emma Kate,

Oh, my precious, cuddly, Emma Katherine. You did it! You reached "fow-uh" years old! You had your princess party that was pink, and purple, and sparkly, and included all your favorite things: Snow White, spaghetti, brownies, and presents. I was so proud when you remembered to say thank you to your guests. That is just one way that you are mature for your age. Now, don't get me wrong, you love to pitch a good fit, and you can hold your own in a whining contest. But, during those times, I have to remind myself that it's normal four year old behavior, or maybe I just pray it's normal.

What a year this has been for you. Your sass has been brought to the forefront. I think it's safe to say that no one will run over you. I just know in my heart of hearts though, that trait will pay off in the long run. My mama's heart wants to believe that when you are in fourth grade, or seventh, or tenth, that your sass will see you through to stand up to peer pressure and make good choices.

This year, you went to the beach for the first time, attended your first cheer camp, learned how to swim without floaties, and started preschool! You are soaking in all you can learn at school, and even love to read along with Grace as she practices her kindergarten reading. You love school and want to know why you can't go every day like Grace. You love pink, sleeping in my bed, Adele, flip flops, and lip gloss.

Your best friend is your sister. You two fight hard and love hard. You aren't quite yourself when she's not around. And, you are protector of your brother. You make sure he doesn't climb where he isn't supposed to and make sure I thoroughly apply his diaper cream.

Precious Girl, you are one of a kind. You know how to push my buttons - the ones that make me growl and the ones that make me melt. You are opinionated, hilarious, and an awesome little helper. You love to help in the kitchen cooking and doing dishes. You are a super washcloth folder and diaper getter. You are the spitting image of your daddy. Your capable little hands amaze me. Your not so quiet singing voice is music to my ears. Your smile can light up a room. Your laugh is infectious.

I hope you love being four and all the experiences this year brings to you. I hope you never change, that you never stop being "you".

I love you a bushel and a peck,
Mama

Reece - ONE

2013-01-03T18:31:00.000-08:00

August 21, 2012

Dear Reece,

This morning, as I greeted you with a "Happy Birthday, Baby Boy", it seemed surreal. 365 days ago, you joined us. 365 days doesn't even seem possible. 365 minutes, maybe. 365 blinks, more likely. But 365 days? Surreal.

365 days ago, I didn't know how much I would enjoy having a little boy. 365 days ago, I had never bought out toy trucks to adorn our family room. I had never picked out a bib reading "Little Man". 365 days ago, I didn't know, couldn't have dreamed how incomplete our family was without our baby boy.

I suppose this whirlwind year is only fitting after the way you came into the world. It seems that starting with your 3 week early entrance that you have been itching to go places, get things done. You have gone from still little peanut to a busy, moving and shaking little boy. Once you figured out how to crawl, it was only a matter of weeks before you began pulling up, cruising, walking, climbing, and running!

You are adding words to your vocabulary almost daily. At 12 months, you can say Mama (swoon), bite, bye bye, baby, dada, ball, nurse (nuh), and hey. You make truck noises, dog sounds, and horse sounds. You love animals, balls, bugs, being outside, and anything that goes!

You are funny; you love to dance (and have quite a few moves) and are oh so mischievous! We often find you in the trash, playing in the toilet, eating bugs or dirt, climbing on anything and everything, and squealing as you get caught.

You also love to eat. There is nothing that we know of that you do not like to eat - and lots of it! Your favorites are biscuits and gravy, potatoes, and ice cream. You are Daddy's buddy as soon as he walks in the door after work because he takes you to the kitchen for a snack.

You have spent 365 days learning, growing, and changing. We have spent 365 days becoming more smitten with you. Your sisters love you like you are their own baby. They want to hold you, even though you don't sit as still for them as you used to, tickle you, and play with you. And, I can practically see their hearts swell when you "give them love".

Daily, I thank God for you; thank Him for choosing me to be your mama. You are a precious little boy who has brought so much to our family. Just a mere 365 days ago, we were singing "Little Boy Blue" to you in my tummy. This weekend, as we sing a different song to you, what once was a blind love for this little being we had yet to see, yet to know, is now love and adoration for our son, our little brother. What a fast, busy, hard, wonderful, blissful year this has been. I can't wait to see what your next year has in store for us!

Happy first birthday, Baby Boy.

Love,
Mama

Summer Lovin', Had Me a Blast

2012-09-02T07:59:00.001-07:00

Kids, Summer time is the most magical time of year to this teacher mama. I love summer because of the heat, the lack of routine, the way everything seems to be about whimsy and a little bit slower pace. But most of all, I love summer because it is over 2 months of us being together every day - deciding what we want to do, and doing it at our own fancy. This summer, we spent most days at the pool, but Grace and Emma Kate went to cheerleading camp and took swim lessons. We also went to Pigeon Forge with Mimi. We watched fireworks, had cook outs, and PLAYED!

Spring Break 2012

2012-09-02T07:46:00.001-07:00

This year during Spring Break, our whole family rented a house right outside Disney World. We had a blast minus the bazillion hours it took to drive down. We visited Magic Kingdom, Sea World, Coco Beach, and Animal Kingdom. Pictures are worth way more than words:

Reece - Third and Fourth Quarters

2012-07-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

Dear Reece (and Grace and Emma Kate),

I haven't blogged in a while. I've been busy. We've been busy. Busy growing, busy going places, busy doing things, busy being a family. I've been stressing myself out because I haven't been writing letters each month and documenting things as soon as they happen. I've been writing down milestones as they happen, otherwise, I know I will get confused, time gets muddled. But, the flowery letters haven't happened. Sometime last week, as I was stressing myself out about all I haven't done, a thought occurred to me. You need more than an up to date baby book. Yes, you and your sisters need more. More than you need a mama who prepares meals, or needs a clean-ish home, even more than you need a mama who takes you swimming, or does fun crafts, or leads dance parties in the kitchen, you three need a Godly mama. You need a mama who spends time reading God's word, talking to God, teaching you how to talk to God, and leading by example. Being Mama to you three precious souls is the most important task I will ever have. A task pre-destined for me by God. A task that I treasure.

This letter is a wrap-up of the second half of your first year. No, your first year isn't up yet - thank goodness! But, as your sweet sister #2 was playing on my phone, she deleted several other notes and some pictures, so I figured things better get documented before this note was "thrown in the trash can" too. Lots has happened, so get ready!

6 month accomplishments:

Giving kisses

Getting upset when things are taken away

Sitting up really well

At 6 months you like:

sweet potatoes and all fruit

musical toys

rattles

being held

7 month accomplishments:

Your first visit to meet Micky Mouse

1st time swimming

sitting up on your own from laying down

clapping

waving bye-bye

1st tooth

1st popsicle

At 7 months you like:

watching your sisters

splashing in the bath tub

being outside

8 month accomplishments:

Crawling

2nd tooth

1st cookie

Table foods are about half your meals

Slept through the night 1 time (and 1 time only)

Pointing

Pulling up

At 8 months you like:

mashed potatoes

sweets

musical toy

cars and trucks

9 month accomplishments:

sipping through straw

standing alone

"Mama"

eating all table foods

At 9 months you like:

walk behind toys

waking me up every 2 hours during the night

getting in your sisters' toys

10 month accomplishments:

"bite"

pushing toys across the floor and making car noises

WALKING

bopping to music

At 10 months you like:

cars and trucks

food - we having found one you don't like

cartoons

stuffed animals

our kittens

Grace's Birthday Interview - Five

2012-07-06T18:28:00.002-07:00

What is your favorite color? PINK!

What is your favorite toy? Baby dolls

What is your favorite fruit? Apples and grapes

What is your favorite tv show? Max and Ruby and Wow Wow Wubbzy and Peppa Pig

What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? Chicken n Stars

What is your favorite outfit? My Justice maxi dress

What is your favorite game? Candy Land

What is your favorite snack? Popsicles

What is your favorite animal? Zebra

What is your favorite song? Crawdad Song

What is your favorite book? The Llama Llama books

Who is your best friend? Sarah and Madison

What is your favorite cereal? Special K

What is your favorite thing to do outside? Play in my new sandbox.

What is your favorite drink? Milk

What is your favorite holiday? My birthday because I get all the presents.

What do you take to bed at night? Pink Flamingo and White Doggie

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Bacon

What do you want for dinner on your birthday? Longhorn

What do you want to be when you grow up? Doctor

Grace - Five

2012-03-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Fingers, toes, senses, vowels. All things that come in fives. Now, we can add you to the mix because you are FIVE years old! Five. Maybe if I say it enough, it will cause the last 1,825 days to seem longer than 5 minutes, 5 blinks. Five.

One blink and you started walking. Two blinks and you were talking in novels. Three blinks and you learned to be compassionate. Four blinks and you were writing your name. Now, after five blinks, you are an independent, sassy, dramatic, hilarious, nurturing five year old. You have always been a handful, but now, Gracie Grace, you are indeed a WHOLE handful.

On the morning of your fifth birthday, Daddy and I woke you up singing “Happy Birthday” to you, and you greeted us with a smile and a squeal. In some ways, you have been at least five your whole life. You were an early walker, skipped right past babbling and went to conversations. At four and a half, you became a big sister again. Apparently, in Grace World, almost five years old is big enough to be your baby brother’s second mama. The other day, as I was getting ready, Reece started fussing. Like the big girl you are, you pulled him in your lap, situated him, and started singing and rocking him. He feels comforted by your arms, you sweet spirit. You have always been independent, definitely always sassy, and wise beyond your years. And, I guess that because of your maturity, I have come to expect it out of you. But, then comes along a sentence such as “I catched the ball!” or “We goed to the store” and my heart smiles remembering that maybe five isn’t so old, maybe not too mature.

Five. A mere five years ago, you became my first born, my teacher. You taught me how to juggle a baby, a telephone, a diaper bag, and several other items at the same time. You taught me that sleep is a treasure not to be taken for granted. You taught me how to give a newborn a bath, how to clip the tiniest nails I had ever seen, how to potty train. You taught me to love princesses and plastic meals of oranges, lettuce, and hotdog buns. You taught me the joy of the word “mama”. You taught me that going to work with baby food, spit up, lip gloss, or a plethora of bodily fluids on my clothes is a reminder of the most important job I will ever have. You taught me how to measure moments.

There are so many times when I should have handled something differently, done something, not done other things. So many times as a mama that I would like to revisit. But, Daddy and I must have done something right because you are one awesome five year old!

My precious girl, you are special. You are kind. You are beautiful inside and out. You matter. I want you to always remember those things. Stuff will happen. Good stuff and bad stuff, but as long as you keep being you, rely on God, and remember that Daddy and I will always be here for you, you will soar. I am so proud to be your mama.

Happy High Five, Baby!

Love,

Mama

Reece - 6 months

2012-02-22T12:21:00.001-08:00

Dear Reece,

You turned 6 months old on February 21, 2012, and with a bang, I might add. We spent your half birthday with a 102 degree temperature and a double ear infection. Luckily, the month leading up was amazing. You have done quite a bit of growing and changing in the last month. You finally started rolling from your tummy to your back. I'm not sure what took so long for you to realize you had that little skill, but now that you do, it's made my job a bit more detailed. You don't stay on your activity mat any more, and you can't be left unattended on beds! You also started baby food. You love carrots, sweet potatoes, and all fruits, but you aren't a fan of green beans - those are promptly spewed back out of your mouth. I have learned that I can sneak them in as long as you taste sweet potatoes first. You have really discovered toys this month. You love anything with lights and music, and anything you can put in your mouth and gnaw on, really.

We also had your baby dedication at church. This is our way of making a public proclamation that we will teach you about Jesus and do our best to raise you according to God's will.

It blows my mind to think that half a year has passed since your whirlwind entrance into the world. I can't believe that just 6 months ago, I didn't realize how much I wanted a little boy. 6 months ago, I was worried that Grace and Emma Kate would still be upset about not getting a baby sister. 6 months ago, I went from envisioning a lifetime of pink and frills to embarking on a life of a mixture of the best of both worlds. In these 6 months, you have gone from a teeny peanut of a newborn to a chubby baby who is learning and growing at the speed of light. Your personaility is revealing itself daily, and this bond that I see forming between you and your sisters is when I realize what a gift you 3 are to each other. In 6 short months, you have captured all our hearts and got us wrapped around your little finger. We all love you more than we could have ever imagined, and can feel that you feel that way about us too.

Happy half birthday!

Love,
Mama

Valentine's Day - 2012

2012-02-22T11:52:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day has taken on a whole new meaning now that we have kids old enough to celebrate. Justin and I try to show each other how much we love and appreciate each other throughout the year, so Valentine's is now about making it fun for the kids.

Justin was traveling the week of Valentine's Day this year, so the kids and I made him a card the week before (gasp!). Thank you, Pinterest.

And, we made heart hair. Idea compliments of Pinterest.

We made valentines for Grace's pre-k class and valentines for each girl to give out at Sunday School. Again, thank you, Pinterest. Are you sensing a theme? No picture of the actual valentines, so how about 1 of my valentines? :)

Apparently, I forgot the lesson about gum chewing during pictures. Ahem, Grace.

So what do I love about my Valentines? Here are a few things:

Grace - I love the dimple in her chin, the shape of her hands, the sweet mothering nature with which she approaches Reece. I love her girly girl personality. I love that she loves school, sparkle, and purses. I love that she is so observant that she knows every detail of what everyone else is doing. I love teaching her how to write and seeing the surprise and joy on her face as she learns.

Emma Kate - I love the pout of her lips and the color of her eyes. I love that she is a ball of sass. I love that I have to hold my breath because the words coming out of her mouth just might embarrass me or make me roll with laughter. I love that she loves snuggling, making Reece laugh, and her new cowboy boots. I love that despite loving skirts, she hates the way that tights "hug her legs". I love that she takes pleasure in helping others and singing at the top of her lungs. I love that she loves with no reservations.

Reece - I love the smell of his skin, how his eyelashes lay on his cheeks when his eyes are closed, and how he smiles with his whole face. I love that he has found his toes. I love that he can blow raspberries and make his sisters beam with just one look. I love that he is a mama's boy. I love that he knows the face and voice of his family members. I love that he loves to be held.

Happy Valentine's Day, Loves.

Reece - 5 months

2012-02-22T08:23:00.001-08:00

Dear Reece,

You turned 5 months old on January 21, 2012. This month, we celebrated a lot! Christmas was first up, followed by New Year's, the end of your first football season, and Daddy's birthday.

Needless to say, impressed is not the word to describe your reaction to the lights, presents, and festivities. Don't worry though, your sisters had that covered. Santa brought you a rocking horse, activity mat, and your first cars and trucks. Daddy and i gave you your first pair of Nikes and some other stuff that you probably won't appreciate until you're old like us. Grace and Emma Kate each picked out an animal rattle to give you.

New Year's was next, and we rang it in on the Sleepy Town Train. And, then we celebrated Daddy's birthday on January 13.
If you'll look back over your monthly letters, you'll see how I bragged on you for sleeping well. Well, this is the month that ended. Let me just say that it's a good thing you're so cute. You had your first bite of baby cereal at the end of this month, which you really enjoyed. Milk, cereal, you love it all!

Your hair that had fallen out after you were born, is really growing back now. And, it's blonde! I don't know if it'll stay that way, but for now, you're a fuzzy little towhead. And, your eyes are still blue. People comment how much you look like Grace and me.

I am enjoying every minute of being your mama. I didn't realize how much our family needed you, but I think we're all taken aback by how much we love you.

Happy 5 months, Baby Boy!

Merry and Bright

2011-12-31T07:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Grace, Emma Kate, and Reece,

Before you, I had decorations that were placed with perfection; I wanted all decorations to exude elegance; and all presents were wrapped in burgandy, gold, or dark green paper tied up with ribbon to match the recipient's personality. That's how Christmas used to be. And then you each came along. And you brought magic with you.

Now I've been reminded of the magic of Santa's reindeer, the joy of decorating with no rules except tickling your fancy. I've been reminded of anticipation, excitement, and whimsy.

Now it's about which kind of cookie is Santa's favorite. I used to be completely against "characters" and then princesses and a prince became rulers at our house. I still like pretty, wrapped packages, but now pretty is defined as shiny, pink, whimsical.

I've been reminded of trips to see Santa, writing letters to Santa, and driving around to find the best Christmas lights. I've been reminded of what it feels like to be too excited to sleep the night before Christmas.

It's not about perfect decorations, but now about decorations that tell a story. Stories of childhood, stories of time spent together.

The most important story. It used to be about a story I knew and treasured in my heart. Now it's a story that I need to instill in my children's hearts and teach you to treasure. Now Christmas is about a 3 year old's reenactment of Mary and her baby boy, her Redeemer. It's about the story of God leaving the splendor of heaven to be born in the most humble of ways told from the heart of a 4 year old.

Now Christmas is about making memories while celebrating the birth of our Savior.

Thank you for the memories. I will treasure them forever.

Merry Christmas 2011, Loves.

Reece - 4 months

2011-12-27T20:54:00.000-08:00

Dear Reece,

You turned 4 months old just before Christmas. This month you celebrated your first Thanksgiving and your first black Friday. :) Though you were too little to eat turkey this year, you are still enjoying your milk quite a bit.

At 4 months old, your blue eyes seem to sparkle even more than they did, and you have turned into the smiliest little boy I've ever seen. It doesn't take much for your mouth to spread into a wide grin and then the coos begin. Oh, how you have found your voice. The coos, gurgles, and babbles are simply precious. You make my heart swell and melt on a daily basis. Those snippets of giggles we heard last month have become full fledged belly laughs.

This month you have started interacting with your sisters. I'm pretty sure their hearts melt as well when those smiles and goos are meant just for them. You have also begun learning how to play with your toys - grasping, batting, and of course chewing on them. Chewing - that brings us to another new point for 4 months. You must be teething because everything goes straight to your mouth, you can fit your whole fist in your mouth, and a bib is our number one fashion accessory.

You are still such a good baby. As long as you have your tummy full, diaper dry, and are being held, you don't complain. Most evenings since I have gone back to work, you stay in my arms. You fuss the second I lay you down, and I am more than happy to oblige you. So, We cook together, clean together, play with Grace and Emma Kate together, and eat together. At night you still sleep wonderfully, going to sleep around 8:00 and waking up around 4:00 am to eat, and then spending the rest of the night cuddling with me. It's amazing how perfectly you fit in my arms. I am loving every minute of you and feel so blessed to be your mama.

Love you to the moon and back,
Mama

Thankful

2011-12-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is the time to reflect on all we're thankful for. It would take me a million years to list all that I am thankful for, for God has blessed me immeasurably. No, instead, I want to write out some of the little things I'm thankful for. Little things that might not be caught at first glance, but little things about my Littles that I want to remember forever.

I am thankful for little hands. Hands that grasp my finger as sleepy town is met. Hands that are becoming nimble and hanging on to the last of baby chub. Hands that have become slender as they learn to write.

I am thankful for dimples on chins, chubby bellies, and beside toothless grins

I am thankful for imaginations so vivid that fights breakout over who gets to stand beside the imaginary girl. So vivid that they refuse to answer to their name being called in a store because they are "somebody else".

I am thankful for giggles. Giggles that come from way down deep in the belly. Giggles that last way past bed time. Giggles that mean sisters are being friends.

I am thankful for eyes. Green, black, and blue. Always curious, always learning.

I am thankful for being able to nurse my babies. This is such a special time that I treasure.

I am thankful for having my hands full. Strangers seem to love to point out that having 3 kids under 5 is a handful, and they are right - my hands are full. So is my heart.

I am thankful for being needed in the middle of the night. A full night's sleep is unheard of, but it means that someone needs me for nourishment, and someone needs me for comfort. The fact that I can provide both means way more than uninterrupted sleep.

I am thankful for aching, heavy arms. I am thankful that these little ones I've been blessed with love to be held. I make no claims to be an expert on parenting, but this I know to be true. As I hold my biggest Little, and her legs reach much farther than they used to, I've learned that time passes much to quickly and if I can hold them close for even a minute, it gives me the chance to etch a memory in my mind.

I'm am thankful for never having "me time". Having a baby on my hip and 4 little helping hands ever present as I prepare meals, clean messes, grocery shop, and get ready in the mornings means my children crave my company. And, I've learned that when I am not with them, a piece of my heart is not with me as well. I miss them. I really miss them. All the biggies about them, and all the littles. I'm afraid that a time will come when they will not crave my company, so on days when I think "if I could just have 5 minutes..." or I'm tripping over little feet because they are trailing so close they could be an appendage, I will remember to be thankful for being someone they want to be near in that moment.

Just a few of the little things. Oh, there are so much more, like the sound of their voices, the shape of their faces, the smell of their freshly bathed skin. These little things are the things I treasure up in my heart, and I realize that it is these little things that are truly the big things. The big things that make my Littles who they are, make them so special, make them mine.

Princesses and their little dog, too.

2011-11-21T21:13:00.000-08:00

October, yeah, yeah, that was last month, but at least I'm getting around to blogging about October's happenings before Thanksgiving. Plus, late is my style.

We made our annual trip to Burt's Pumpkin Farm to get our pumpkins. Of course the girls were thrilled with Burt's, because at 3 and 4 years old, they're thrilled with just about everything. Reece, on the other hand, was not too impressed and slept through his entire first trip to the pumpkin farm. We came away with a nice round pumpkin for carving, 3 itty bitty pumpkins, 2 pieces of pumpkin roll, popcorn, 2 fried apple pies, and 2 giant lollipops.

For Halloween, Grace chose to dress up as Ariel, Emma Kate was Snow White (as if there was another option), and Reece was a puppy dog. We went to our church's Trunk or Treat, and visited some neighbors and family. I They really enjoyed the candy.

Happy Fall, Y'all!

Reece - 3 months old

2011-11-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Reece,

Another blink, another month. I've got to learn how to eliminate blinking. Then maybe time will slow down just a bit. You turned 3 months old today, and I think about how much you've changed in the last month. At the beginning of your third month, it was as if you suddenly woke up and your personality really started revealing itself. I think you needed some time to recover from your whirlwind entry into the world. Or maybe it was the chaos that we brought you home to... Either way, at the start of this month, your eyes suddenly became brighter, more focused. Those smiles that were not delivered without deliberation began flowing freely. And the coos and goos that greet us now are heart melting and bring tears to my eyes on a regular basis.

This month, we visited the pumpkin patch and celebrated your first Halloween. And, I've been doing some celebrating as you sleep about 8 hours at night. Now, the past few nights, since my maternity leave ended, you've been waking an extra time during the night. I'm betting it's because you've missed me so much during the day. If that's the reason, then I really don't mind it. :)

You've maintained your "up for the day at 7:00 am, bed time at 8:00 pm" routine. You are such a good baby, and as long as you're tummy is full, diaper is dry, and body is snuggled, you are a happy camper. It makes my heart swell 1 million times when your fussiness is quietened the minute you're snuggled in my arms.

Your big sisters continue to be infatuated with you. I can't wait to see the look on their faces when you return that affection.

Baby Boy, Here's to a quarter of a year of YOU!

Love,
Mama

Reece - 2 months old

2011-11-21T20:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Reece,

You turned 2 months old on October 21, 2011. As I write this, you are actually almost 3 months old. On one hand, that makes me feel like I've been slacking, but on the other hand, time seems to be passing so quickly that I can't possibly keep up. It feels like yesterday that we were bringing you home, but at the same time, it feels like you've always been here. Ahhh, chalk up my ramblings to being a sentimental mama. I promise I'll try to keep them to a minimum when you're old enough to be embarrassed by them. I also promise you'll understand them when you're old enough to get over that embarrassment.

Your second month was filled with more firsts. When you were 5 weeks old, you went to church for the first time. At 6 weeks old, you attended your first party - Emma Kate's birthday. You actually rolled over for the first time (tummy to back) at 4 weeks, but I wasn't convinced that it wasn't a fluke because 4 weeks is too soon for my baby to start meeting milestones like rolling over, but alas, you proved that roll was the first of many.

You made us wait until you were 7 weeks old to see your first real smile. Let me assure you that seeing your little mouth spread in that precious grin was well worth the wait. Most of the time, your smile comes out of only one side of your mouth. At 2 months old, you are still pretty reserved with your smiles and seem to be a serious little man.

Little Man. That's one of our nick names for you. Way more often than Reece, you get called Little Man, Reecie P, or Baby Boy. Or something preceded by sweet, precious, or handsome. Whatever we call you, know that it is laced with love. 2 months of unimaginable, indescribable love.

Love,
Mama

Emma Kate - Three

2011-10-24T06:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Emma Kate,

Your third birthday is finally here. I say finally because it's all you talked about for the last month. "My buf-day's nevah gonna get he-ah!" you proclaimed more than once. Time dragged by for you as you waited for your birthday. Finally is not the word I would use to describe the journey to your birthday from my perspective. No, from where I sit, these three years feel more like three minutes.

The night you were born was very emotional. I was excited to meet our second daughter, but I was also unsure. Unsure how I could possibly love another as much as I loved your sister. Sure, I had been told how love multiplies, and really, I knew they were right. But I just wasn't sure how. What if I couldn't? And then I met you. The instant you were laid on my chest, I remember taking in so many things: the sound of your cry, your head full of black hair, your plump cheeks. But mostly I remember soaking up the feeling of all the uncertainty melting away and being replaced by a love just as strong, just as deep. My Baby Girl, in 3 years, the memories we've made and the moments we've shared have only made that love intensify.

In these 3 years, you have gone from a passive, quiet baby tagging behind her big sister to a vivacious, funny, mischievous, loving little girl who is no longer content to always tag along. You, my dear, did not come out of your shell. You busted out with neon lights and a bull horn.

You love to laugh. You see humor in every situation, and use it to your advantage when the mischievous side of you comes out. Just when you are about to get in major trouble, you make a funny face, or serve up an "I love you" in a drawl that would make Scarlett O'Hara jealous. And, mischief combined with the terrible twos means you have gotten to try out your skills almost daily.

One thing that has remained constant with your personality is your sweetness. You love to snuggle, tickle noses (eskimo kisses), dish out bear hugs, and more or less be my marsupial. You love to help me around the house, especially when Grace is at school.

This year, you have grown to love doctor shows - the bloodier, the better. Your favorite color is still orange, but pink and aqua are climbing the ranks. Ketchup and french fries are your favorite food. Sweets are considered a major food group with brownies being your favorite. You love to read, play with baby dolls, and wear skirts. Snow White is your favorite princess, and you aspire to be her when you grow up.

Your greatest obsessioin: babies. Girlfriend, there hasn't been a dirty diaper that has deterred you from sticking close to any baby you know. You were destined to be a big sister. The arrival of Reece has confirmed that. You and Grace both love to help with baths, gather diaper supplies, hold him, and more or less hover over him to be sure not to miss a hiccup or a blink and let me know the nanosecond he starts to cry. It is the sweetest thing I've ever witnessed.

Now that you are "fwee" you say you are a big girl. You say that means getting to wear earrings and hold Reece standing up. We'll start with the earrings for now. :) Apparently though, being "fwee" is not too big to be held like a baby, as you request daily. And it is not too big to need your mama's hand when you feel shy. "Fwee" is definitely not too big for tickling noses.

My big "fwee" year old girl, I hope you continue to laugh through life, and that the laughs outnumber the tears. I hope you meet new experiences head on and know that you can lean on your family whether those experiences turn out just how you expected, or not. I hope, dear Emma Katherine, that you know how special you are, realize your worth, and settle for nothing less than what you deserve.

Thank you for a terrific three years.

Love, Mama

Celebrating 3 - Emma Kate Style

2011-10-11T07:26:00.000-07:00

Emma Kate turned a trio of years on October 2. For her third birthday, Emma Kate had 2 requests: earrings and Snow White.

We made an appointment to have her ears pierced, but went in without any real expectations. Emma Kate's ears are so sensitive that she cries when the doctor has to look at them, and to clean them, you have to all but pin her down. She surprised us all though when she sat in my lap like a big girl, and walked away with a few snubs and big girl earrings.

I promise it didn't take long for this pitiful face to start smiling and showing off her earrings.

And then came the Snow White soiree. Everything was red, blue, and yellow to match Snow White's dress.

I made the invitation while the banner, favor tags, cupcake toppers, and water bottle labels were made by Toadally Cute Products on Etsy.

How cute is the nutrition label?!

The tables had a burlap table runner, and I made these fabric topiaries using scraps of red, blue, and yellow fabric.

For the dessert table, I played up the apple theme that is so prevalent in Snow White. Other than cupcakes, we had apple cake balls, apple muffins, apple pies, and brownies. Ok, the brownies don't go with the apple theme, but they are Emma Kate's favorite sweet treat, so we couldn't have her birthday without them.

So, my apple cake balls don't exactly look like Bakerella's, but they tasted yummy! That's what counts, right?

It might have something to do with the fact that this is what it looks like when cake balls are being made at my house.

The Birthday Girl got just a wee bit shy when we sang to her. Buuuuut, she quickly overcame when it was present time.

My sweet birthday girl had a blast. We are so thankful to all our family that helped her celebrate.

Princess Emma Kate

Big Sister dressed up as Ariel for the par-tay.

I don't know if I've ever seen a more excited birthday girl. She kept proclaiming, "This is MY bufday pawty!" and every day since her birthday, "I'm fwee; I have eah-wings; and I'm a big guhl."

Yes, you are, Princess Emma Kate. You are my big girl.