PARTY OF FIVE

Bedtime Buddy.

2012-02-12T11:05:00.000-08:00

Someone has been sleeping in my bed.
Well, at least last night someone did.
Zayne got thrown off with his sleeping last night, because I couldn't keep him awake past 6:30. So, come midnight last night, he was wide awake. But he was no problem at all! He is such a sweet little guy. He laid there, quietly beside me, snuggled up together on this cold, winter night. To be honest, I wasn't even asleep yet. His sweet little head laid close, touching mine. I could just feel him soaking in the rare treat of sleeping so close, next to mama. We quietly looked at pictures on my phone. Almost all 500 of them.

Moments like this are what it's all about. It's these memories you will look back on and miss. Someday I'll go back and read this post and it will make me smile. I'll close my eye's and remember the sweet warmth of his little body close to mine. I'll (try) and not frown because it's over, but I'll smile because it happened. It's like this, you will never look back and think, "I wish I wouldn't have spent so much time with my kids". Soak them in as much as you can. You won't regret it.

I whispered, "Zayne, are you enjoying sleeping with mama tonight?" His soft, tender voice replied, "yes".

"Me too, sweet boy. Me too".

I didn't think to snap a picture of him sleeping, but here is the evidence left behind this morning :)

Thankful for a schedule thrown off course,

On this Monday.

2012-02-06T14:50:00.000-08:00

I am just reflecting back on our weekend and feeling so blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives!

I love family.

I am thankful for each and every one of you!

The only rock I know that stays steady, the only institution I know that works is the family. ~Lee Iacocca

Today.

2012-02-01T10:47:00.000-08:00

Highlight of my day

was this little guy

saying, "I love you Mama".

What I love Wednesday.

2012-01-18T05:50:00.000-08:00

I love sharing things that are really useful to me. I have so many things that I love! I will try and contain myself and only list a few per post.

My apple post it dispenser that I got for Christmas from my Mother-in-law. It comes in so handy!

The fluffy blanket that my husband got me for Christmas. It is so soft, it's like cuddling up to a cloud. He definitely knows the way to my heart. ;) Everyone likes to snuggle with it.

Non-stick aluminum foil. Silly, I know. But I love having it around because it makes kitchen work just a little easier.

What do you love?

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2011-12-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Merry CHRISTmas from our home to yours!!

Just a cute little house.

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

Anybody that really knows me knows that I love old houses and houses with lots of character. They probably also know that I love houses in general. I love looking at houses! I love how each house possess a unique feature that make each one well, unique . I believe there is beauty in any house if you look hard enough.

This little house is chock full of charm. It was built in 1860 in a quaint, coastal town called St. Marys, GA. Even though I do not see this little beauty in my near future, I still think it is worthy to share.

I think the front is screaming for a red metal roof and a white picket fence. The trees could use some pruning and flowers need to be planted.

Love the natural light in the living room

and the simplicity of this staircase

Ugh. The carpet in the kitchen has GOT to go! But it's functional.

What about you? Can you see what I see?

The curious case of Zayne and Noah.

2011-12-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

Did a little impromptu Winter photo shoot of the little boys. I like to take photo's that represent who they are and what they love. I think I accomplished that with these. Unfortunately, I didn't get any of Nathan because he was helping his Dad put out Christmas lights. I snapped a few of them but I didn't like the way they turned out. I guess I'll have to torture him later.

Zayne, lover of all things nature

Noah's 2 favorite toys right now, Thomas and Oink Oink

October 13, 2011

2011-10-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

10 years ago today I married my best friend! Year 10 for me is just as exciting as the day I met him. Our love is stronger, our faith has deepened, and our family is larger! ;)

Song of Songs 3:4 says it perfectly for me..."I have found the one my heart loves".

Inscripted in Hebrew and in English on Drew's wedding ring is another scripture from Song of Songs 6:3. It says, "I am my beloved and my beloved is mine". Very true!

So, Happy Anniversary to the one my heart loves. May we be blessed with many, many more!!

Creation Museum

2011-08-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

Recently, our family accompanied Drew on a business trip to Cincinnati, Ohio. While there, we made it over to the Creation Museum. I said we couldn't go to Ohio and not see it. I am so glad we did! It is jam packed with so many beautiful, biblically inspired things. Such a great, wholesome place to take your family. We all had such a fun time and I am so glad we went. We also visited a few other really neat places. I will try and post more on those soon!

Thou Shalt Live Comfortably--And Other Things God Never Promised

2011-07-02T19:03:00.001-07:00

I came across this article back a few months ago. Like so many times before, I 'accidentally' discovered this article right when I needed it the most. I was so blessed by what this man had to say. It was so refreshing to read and a real kick in the butt at the same time. I wanted to share in hopes that someone reading may need to hear this just like me.

Enjoy and be blessed!!

Thou Shalt Live Comfortably—And Other Things God Never Promised

by Michael D. Warden on October 02, 2008

A few years ago, I embarked in pursuit of a life-long dream to live and experience the cultures of various Central American countries for an entire year. I went with no set agenda and few preset plans, leaving my course open for God to shape as He would. True to His ways, God opened up several opportunities for me to serve. In the process, I befriended several local believers, natives of the lands in which I was the outsider. Without exception, they were gracious and passionate people who treated me with a selfless kindness and deep respect that humbled me. I treasured the months I shared with them, and when the time was over, I was sad to say goodbye.

Upon my return to the United States, I found that everything around me had changed. Only really, it hadn’t. The change wasn’t in my surroundings but in my own newly opened eyes. Everywhere I looked, I was being told to satisfy my “needs” by buying. The onslaught of commercials paraded before me—You need this. You deserve this. This will make you happy.—openly challenging the peaceful well of contentment that had deepened in my soul during my months away. Their messages screamed from the billboards, echoed through the cavernous malls, and spilled off the clothing people wore; they blasted through the radio, the television, and in movie theaters. The stench of consumerism suddenly seemed to saturate the air, soaking everything around me in its unpleasant odor. Whatever product, service, or experience was being touted, the underlying messages were always the same: You have a right to this. You deserve to have nice things. You should be comfortable. Your life should be free of pain. You should be happy—and always, always entertained.

For most of my life as a Christian, I have quietly believed the tenets of consumerism. “What’s wrong with having nice things?” I would ask myself. “Doesn’t God want to bless me? I work hard for what I get. I deserve to reap the benefits, don’t I? Nothing wrong with that.” But consumerism is a deceptive weed. Its hidden roots dig far deeper into most of us than the occasional act of harmless self-indulgence. They burrow right to the core of our beliefs as followers of Christ. Once there, they lie to us about what a Christian should expect out of life—and what he shouldn’t.

As believers who are called to walk in God’s truth, it’s crucial to recognize the false messages of consumerism. While there are certainly more, here are three lies that strike most prominently at the root of our faith, and perhaps do the greatest damage to our freedom in Christ—and our witness to the world.

Lie #1: You Have a Right to a Comfortable Life

I came to see this lie through a simple comment made offhandedly by a missionary friend a few years ago. “God did not save us just so we could live comfortable little lives,” he said. The statement seared me like a branding iron upon my heart.

According to the U.S. Federal Reserve, more than 40 percent of U.S. families spend more than they earn each year. The typical American in the U.S. currently maintains around $8,400 of credit card debt.

God’s Word promises us many things—wonderful things, things to be treasured, beliefs to cling to when times grow difficult in our lives. But He never promised any of us that He would give us a comfortable life. That’s not a right that we as Christians can claim. Yet many of us do, demanding it as naturally as if the edict for our comfort came down from heaven itself. Many of our choices and priorities are founded on the belief that we deserve a comfortable lifestyle, home, job, and even (dare I say it) church life.

The message of our culture—that you deserve to be comfortable—isn’t the message of the gospel. “God does not promise to make us middle class,” says Robert L. Hubbard, professor at North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago. “While there’s nothing excessive with wanting to have a nice house, new car, three meals a day, and full cable service, these are not biblical ‘needs.’ The kingdom of God and the middle class are not the same thing. He blesses some of his people with wealth; still, He guarantees only that we’ll have food and clothing.”

The Apostle Paul reflected the attitude we should embrace with respect to physical comforts. “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these” (1 Tim. 6:7-8).

God promises to provide. But as the Scriptures clearly point out, He didn’t save us just so we could live comfortable, little lives.

Lie #2: You Have a Right to Be Entertained

More than any other nation, we’re a people enamored with our right to be entertained, and we happily throw our money and time into those activities and products that hold the greatest “entertainment value” for us. Being entertained is how we Americans relax and escape the daily stress of life.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average American spends almost $2,000 each year on movies, sporting events, concerts, music, video games, and other entertaining diversions.

I am no different, of course. I’m a great lover of movies and music, and even play video games from time to time. But my love for entertainment becomes a problem when I begin to view it as a right, and I begin to (unconsciously, almost) fill my life with only those activities that promise in some way to entertain me. I focus on pleasing myself and do not think so much about sacrificing my pleasure for the sake of meeting another’s need. I judge the value of my church (and even my relationship with God) by how much pleasure it brings me and tend to dull my hearing against voices that are inconvenient or too demanding.

For good reason, the Apostle Paul issued a strong warning against this sort of pleasure-centered approach to life. “But know this: difficult times will come in the last days. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good, traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to the form of religion but denying its power. Avoid these people!” (2 Tim. 3:1-5).

Clearly, Paul saw the pleasure-focused lifestyle as a serious threat to the health and purity of the body of Christ—to the point of warning us to sever all ties with people who choose to live that way.

But do we?

Lie #3: You Have a Right To Be Free From Pain

Pain is bad, isn’t it? That’s certainly what our culture tells us. If something hurts you, then you must distance yourself from it. Medicate it. Perhaps divorce it. That’s the healthy response. Life shouldn’t be painful. If it hurts, then something must be wrong.

Perhaps this is the most damaging lie of all for those of us who follow Christ. For veiled beneath the words lurks this horrible falsehood: “Whatever brings me pain, whatever hurts me, cannot be from God.”

As a consequence of this belief, we find ourselves running from church to church, from job to job, from relationship to relationship, anytime any one of those things dares to hurt us or make our lives difficult or uncomfortable.

We run from pain because it hurts. It can damage and wound. The truth is, not all pain is from God. There are times when the right thing to do is to walk away and to separate yourself from the source of your injury. But where we go wrong is in thinking that God believes all pain is bad, or that every place or person He calls you to should never cause you to hurt.

Jesus Himself promised that suffering will follow those who follow Him. “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world” (John 16:33). Although a lot of pain comes from the world, sometimes it comes—out of love—from the hand of God Himself. “Endure it as discipline: God is dealing with you as sons. For what son is there whom a father does not discipline?” (Heb. 12:7).

Our culture runs from suffering, discomfort, and anything else that doesn’t please us. But as followers of Christ, we live by a different standard of truth. We welcome pleasure when it comes, but also hold this reality in tension in our hearts—that God’s greatest gifts often come to us through difficulty and hardship.

So while we live in a culture that advocates an “all pleasure, no pain” approach to life, perhaps we shouldn’t be so quick to reject the painful, tedious, and inconvenient things that come into our lives. For those may be the very tools God is using to set us free.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

so far this week we have...

2011-05-24T11:19:00.000-07:00

washed the van

found a robins egg

read the same children's books many times over

picked up 101 cookie cutters off the floor

ate yummy peanut butter and jelly sandwiches

packed some boxes

let Nathan have a sleepover

allowed Nathan unlimited playtime with his friends (hence the lack of pictures of him)

played basketball

had a nice visit with neighbors

built many train tracks

started a puzzle

layed back in the grass while Zayne and Noah picked some flowers in the yard

enjoyed walks in the neighborhood

watched some shows on Netflix with the hubby

swung my boys on the swing set until my arms got tired

built many towers and tunnels

relaxed

mowed this yard for the last time

discussed our future and our long time goals

had devotion every night --even when daddy can't be here he tunes in by face time on our phones

stayed up late

Inspiration for Mothers.

2011-05-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

I love reading things that inspire me as a Mother. I am always searching. I am always learning. I found these two poems last night and I wanted to share them. They are so very true.

It’s not so much what you say
As the manner in which you say it;
It’s not so much the language you use
As the tone in which you convey it;
“Come here!” I sharply said,
And the child cowered and wept.
“Come here,” I said –
He looked and smiled
And straight to my lap he crept.
Words may be mild and fair
And the tone may pierce like a dart;
Words may be soft as the summer air
But the tone may break my heart;
For words come from the mind
Grow by study and art –
But tone leaps from the inner self
Revealing the state of the heart.
Whether you know it or not,
Whether you mean or care,
Gentleness, kindness, love, and hate,
Envy, anger, are there.
Then, would you quarrels avoid
And peace and love rejoice?
Keep anger not only out of your words –
Keep it out of your voice.
~Author Unknown

I took a piece of plastic clay.
And idly fashioned it one day.
And as my fingers pressed it, still
It moved and yielded to my will.

I came again when days were past:
The bit of clay was hard at last.
The form I gave it still it bore,
And I could fashion it no more!

I took a piece of living clay,
And gently pressed it day by day,
And moulded with my power and art
A young child’s soft and yielding heart.

I came again when years had gone:
It was a man I looked upon.
He still that early impress bore
And I could fashion it no more.
~ Author Unknown

Happy Birthday Zayne!

2011-04-27T07:38:00.000-07:00

Zayne,
you turned 3 today! I can't believe how fast you are growing! You amaze me each day. You are growing and learning so well. I am so thankful for your sweetness and your wonderful, happy disposition. You have taught me so much these past 3 years. I am so thankful to have you. I enjoy watching you play with Noah and watch your excitement when you see "Nay-Nay" walk in the front door after school each day. I'm pretty sure Nay-Nay loves having you snuggle with him each night. I'm am excited to watch you grow and learn. God sure knew what he was doing when he created you!!

Love,
Mama

Sandbox.

2011-04-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

One of their favorite things right now!

Jesus Will Still Be There.

2011-04-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

I needed to be reminded of this song tonight. It's funny how just the right song will pop in your head at just the right time.

Things change plans fail
You look for love on a grander scale
Storms rise hopes fade
And you place your bets on another day
When the going gets tough
When the ride's too rough
When you're just not sure enough

(chorus)
Jesus will still be there
His love will never change
Sure as the steady rain
Jesus will still be there
No matter what you do
He'll still be loving you
When it looks like you've lost it all
And you haven't got a prayer
Jesus will still be there

Time flies hearts turn
A little bit wiser from lessons learned
But sometimes weakness wins
And you lose your foothold once again
When the going gets tough
When the ride's too rough
When you're just not sure enough

(repeat chorus) (2x)

When it looks like you've lost it all
And you haven't got a prayer
Jesus will still be there

Trip with Daddy.

2011-04-19T05:46:00.000-07:00

Last month, Drew had to go to Jacksonville for a business trip. At the last minute, I decided the boys and I should go with him. And when I say "last minute" I mean like he was loading up the car ready to go. I'm not sure why I put in to go, but it might of had something to do with tornado warnings, and a bunch of crying children(Nathan included). Can you blame me? Of course after 6 hours of driving with a car full of sleepy, cranky people I was beginning to wander if some alien had taken over my brain when I decided to do something so ridiculous. The next day was pretty bad too b/c everyone was still sleep deprived, but after that, it was smooth sailing. I can say that in the end, fun was had by all and I was glad that we came! We even fit in a nice dinner and a boat ride across the St. Johns.

One day while Drew was in his meetings, I took the boys to a park we use to walk to in our old neighborhood. It brought back wonderful memories! The park is really nice and shady. We spent many hours there and it was wonderful. We also ate pizza one night at Pompeii's with my sister and family.

Silky.

2011-04-18T18:24:00.000-07:00

Lately Noah has become very attached to his silky. He likes it when he first wakes up and when he is getting tired. When I get him out of his bed in the morning he always has it in his hand. When he gets tired he goes into his room and pulls it out of his bed. He likes to pull it behind him and make Zayne chase it. It's a game they have started. He calls it "gilkie". Here are a few pics of Noah and silky. These particular pictures were taken right after naptime. Please excuse the terrible picture quality.

snack time

2011-03-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

warm weather= open windows!!

"Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it". -Anne Shirley

2011-03-17T19:56:00.000-07:00

It is almost 10:30 at night and I am beat! Tonight was one of those nights I couldn't get the kids in bed fast enough. You know, the kind where you pray over and over to just help me make it through this next hour. Sounds terrible, but you know how it is sometimes. Zayne and Noah aren't to thrilled when I declare it bedtime and they try to make a break for it almost every time. Tonight was no exception. I would scoot them along towards their room and something would divert my attention for a split second and off they go. Soon they think its funny and Noah thinks I'm chasing him for the fun of it. He laughs hysterically. I do not. Nathan kept asking me hundreds of questions and I try and answer in my most realistic-patient voice. Apparently I didn't do to well "faking" it because he says, "I better go to the bathroom NOW instead of after you tuck me in since your already so grouchy". Great. Now I feel bad. Drew of course had already left for work. I hate it when he can't be here for bedtime. It always goes so much smoother when he is here. Boo for daddies that work night shift! Now I'm sitting here looking at all the toys that need to be put away, dishes that need to be put up and more to be washed, crumbs that need to be swept, table that STILL needs to be cleaned, clothes that need to be folded, counters that need to be wiped and a mama that just doesn't have the energy left to get it all done. But I probably will anyway. Well, at least the table. Let's just hope that Noah doesn't wake up screaming like he did last night. Tomorrow is a new day and I plan on handling it with some real patience and a lot of gratitude. Oh, and their Daddy!

**I feel I need to say that it wasn't the boy's fault at all that I was so "grouchy". They really were awesome!

What a girl wants...

2011-03-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

I found these adorable pieces of eye candy at the vinage pearl. Aren't they dainty and oh so pretty?

I think every mother needs one of these hanging in her laundry room. It's a fact.

I love this man...

2011-02-24T11:12:00.000-08:00

And so does his grandsons.

Birthday.

2011-02-24T07:58:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday was my sweet hubby's 30th birthday.
I baked him his favorite cake--red velvet with homemade cream cheese icing.
For dinner we had lasagna and salad.
After the kids were fed we took off to watch a movie at the theatre while my dad watched the boys.
We enjoyed being together and sweet hubby said it was his best birthday ever!
I am so thankful for a husband who enjoys simple birthdays at home surrounded by his family,
a hubby that works so hard to provide for his family,
a daddy that loves his children fiercely,
the spiritual leader of our family who is committed to leading his family and praying over us and our life and situations that may arise.
He truly wants God in the front seat leading us and directing our every move.
I am so thankful for a husband like that.

Poor little blog.

2011-01-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

My poor little blog has been suffering over the last few months. I had all intentions of updating several times but as usual life sort of gets in the way. Kinda ironic being as this blog is supposed to be about our life--crazy or not...but I'm sure most of you know what I'm talking about. Once you get so far behind, playing catchup seems too daunting. But I am going to try and do the best I can.

Let me start with about a week before Christmas. My mom and dad came for a few days to do Christmas with us. We were unable to travel to Waycross this year due to Drew's job. He did not have to work but he had to be close in case something crazy happened. Unfortunately, he had to work while my parents were here so we did not end up with many pictures at all.

*we took more but it was with my dad's camera. I still need to get those pictures from him.

The day after they left, my parents-in-laws, bro and sister-in-law came up with our nephew Layton. They were with us on Christmas Day and witnessed a white Christmas with us(my first one since 1989). Unfortunately Christmas night Drew came down with a stomach bug and by the next morning, Noah had a full blown cold.

Despite some series of unfortunate events these last few months such as a wrecked car, a crashed laptop, traffic tickets, a cracked screen on our little camera, sicknesses, struggles, and everything thing else in-between, I still consider myself so utterly blessed. I'm thankful for the good times, but I am also thankful for the not so good because its the struggles in life that truly shape our character and help us to learn and grow and give us wisdom and determination. Other than God, my family is my everything. I love them with all my heart and as long as I have them, I could fall down a hundred times and still feel like I'm on top of the world.

(g-dad reading the g-son's a story from my favorite Christmas book as a child)

So here it is, my post about Christmas. It may be late, but better late than never, right?

*I also wanted to shout out to my sister and her precious family-- we missed them dearly this holiday season! Can't wait to see you all soon!!!!

Today's lunch was last night's dinner

2010-11-17T07:39:00.000-08:00

a.k.a- leftovers!

made with:
whole grain noodles
traditional sauce
spinach(had 1/2 a bag about to go bad so I threw it in)
cheese on top

french bread and a root beer to go with it. YUM!

November 11, 2010

2010-11-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

What did we do today?

2010-11-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

It has been so cold today! The high today was 50 degrees. Tomorrow night is supposed to be in the 20s. I can't wait until Drew comes home so he can build a fire!

The little boys had a check-up with the pediatrician this morning. They did good and each received a flu shot. Taking them to the doctor by myself is kind of a big deal as they LOVE to show out and put on their imabouttoscreamsoloudyouwillneverwanttobringmebackhereagain faces. Fortunately I had put on my supermom cape this morning so all went well! It helps that I think we have the best pediatrician EVER! I was telling her about how well Zayne has been doing and she got teary eyed. She said I was about to make her cry. She even remembered that Zayne doesn't like stickers (although he's coming around)and that Noah likes to ~~scream~~ exercise his vocals.

But what have we been doing this afternoon? Well here, I'll show you...

HAPPY FRIDAY! What did you do today?

Hope everyone had a...

2010-11-02T20:27:00.000-07:00

Fall Festivities, part 2.

2010-10-22T04:58:00.001-07:00

This past weekend Drew's mom and dad came for a visit. We all went to Hillcrest Apple Orchard. It was so pretty up there!! We all had a great time. We picked apples, Nathan and Zayne rode a pony, Nathan got to petal around on a cart, went on a tractor ride, milked a cow, and shopped at the market for some of their homemade goods. We ate fried apple fritters with a big dollop or vanilla ice cream on top.
It was a blast and we were so glad we got to spend time with Nah-Nah and G-Dad!! We hated to see them leave.

Before we went to the Orchard, Nah-Nah and G-dad took the little boys to buy them some new shoes at stride rite. This first picture was Mike holding Noah on the way to the shoe store. He was just so happy in G-dad's arms!

Fall Festivities, part 1.

2010-10-21T05:01:00.002-07:00

Last week we took the kids to a local churches' pumpkin patch. They had such a good time seeing all the pumpkins, walking through them all, and picking them up. We let them each pick out a small pumpkin and then Nathan and Drew picked our big family pumpkin for carving. This weekend I am going to let them decorate their little pumpkins with stickers and markers. I just love fall and everything that comes with it...cool, crisp air, leaves turning and falling, pumpkins, baked goodies, drinking coffee by the fire, Halloween. It is my favorite season.

9 years.

2010-10-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say Happy Anniversary to my precious husband. I love you more, most and infinity!!!

Love,

(Not Quite) Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T05:26:00.000-07:00

These are some pictures of Z &N that I took last month. I will remember this day for a long time. They loved on each other and shared so much! It was a very happy day. They worked together to pull up the grass and pile it in a little toy. I love it when my kids behave this way.

Haircut.

2010-10-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

All 3 boys had haircuts Saturday.

They were long overdue.

They all now look like handsome, clean cut little fellows.

Unfortunately, my camera battery was dead so I have no pictures.

I am excited to say Zayne didn't. even. cry. He was such a big boy (with a sucker in both hands) and I couldn't have been more proud! This is huge compared to last time. He screamed the WHOLE TIME. Haircuts can be traumatic for children with sensory disorders.

I really think occupational therapy has helped a lot. He has some sensory issues and we have noticed an improvement with a combination of PRAYER (which I know is the main reason), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and him just getting older. Certain noises don't bother him anymore like the fridge animal magnets. lol

He also know his ABC's(and the sounds of some), some numbers, *has an awesome memory, saying a lot more words, knows the tune to a few songs, notices things more, and he even mimiced me when I told him Friday that "We've got to go get Nay Nay". It sort of sounded like this: 'ne not no net Nay Nay'. I think I threw him up in the air and did cartwheels...well maybe not but I sure was thrilled. We even made a song out of it and sang it all the way to the bus stop and back. He is just learning so much and truely loves to learn and I am so thankful for this sweet little boy. He is definitely taking steps in the right direction.

Well, this post was only going to be about haircuts but I just get so excited when I talk about my Zayne and his improvements. They may not seem like much to normal standards but they are HUGE to me!!

*Nah Nah- do you remember when you were here a few weeks ago and you traced his hand on the magna-doodle? Yesterday I started to trace his hand on paper and he said "Na Nah, Na Nah"!
He remembered you tracing his hand. I thought it was too precious!

**UPDATE- Zayne showed me tonight he knew ALL of his shapes!! I asked him where the triangle, rectangle, square, star, circle, diamond, and oval were and he showed me all of them numerous times and got them right!!

10-19 knows his colors and animals

Wordless Wednesday~ Me and my shadow

2010-09-29T04:36:00.000-07:00

2010-09-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

I was looking through our pictures and came across this one of a fence. Not sure why we took a picture of our fence but we did. I almost deleted it but decided to see if there were any clever quotes about fences. FYI...no, there are not. But I did like this one by Robert Frost.

the post where I complain about my day!

2010-09-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

Today Nathan and Noah had their appointments with their new Endocrinologist at Emory University. I set this appointment up right when I knew we were moving here back the beginning of March. I spent lots of time making sure that I had everything sent over to the new Dr.

Well, 2 hours before we were to be their, the actual Dr. called and said that they had absolutely NOTHING on the boys, no medical history on either one of them. WHAT?! That can't be, I said. I wanted to throw the phone across the room! For the next forever I was on the phone with medical records (after being on hold for gosh knows how long) and the very nice lady said she would fax the consent forms to Drew (who was at work) so that we could try and get them to the new Dr. by appt. time. After getting the kids fed, cleaned, dressed, diaper bag ready, myself dressed, and this that and the other, I took off by myself with the kids to downtown Atlanta to a hospital I had never seen before in my life during lunch time rush hour!!! Luckily I made it with absolutely no minute to spare. Drew met me there. Noah was pitching a Noah fit x's 10 so bad we could barely hear the Dr talking. Afterwards we headed to the lab. I think Drew could tell I was ready to scream so he took N & N to get the blood drawn while I sat back out in the waiting room with Zayne. I gotta say the waiting room was great! They had little tables so the kids could color and a huge fish tank with all kinds of neat fish and turtles. After that sweet hubby took the boys for their bone scan while I stayed with Z. I would have been fine if Noah would not have screamed every time he didn't get his way. Very tiring, embarrassing and loud! We had to wait a lot in between the procedures. We ate dinner at the hospital and fought the rain and rush hour back home. Whew!! What a day! I hope I have no more days like this --yeah right!! Tomorrow workers are coming to tear apart my kitchen floor, Zayne has a therapy appt. and Nathan will probably have makeup work to no end.

Oh, and we have a rat in our house.

So see, your day wasn't so bad after all!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quotes for today:

"With kids the days are long but the years are short."

"This too shall pass"

"Just breathe"

Fall is here!

2010-09-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

I have to brag

2010-09-22T17:24:00.000-07:00

After getting Zayne and Noah changed and washed up after completely ruining their clothes outside in the dirt, I gave them both a bowl of goldfish to eat in their playroom and put on a Barney movie.

Let me rewind just a minute and just say that all day today when I have asked Nathan to help me do something he has not hesitated one bit. He is always pretty good about doing what we say but he does grumble from time to time. Last night I was talking to him about what it means to have a servants heart and helping others without complaining.

Well after setting the boys up with their snack and movie I started up the stairs to bring down their bed clothes when I hear the obvious sound of goldfish being dumped all over the floor. I just sighed and shrugged my shoulders. That is when Nathan says..."Mama don't worry about it, I will pick it up for you. You can go do what you were doing". And he did. He walked right over to the boys, smiled and tickled their bellies and picked up all the goldfish. It was one of those moments where your heart wants to explode from your chest.
He is mama's big helper and a little man in the making.

Nanny McPhee Returns

2010-09-17T06:58:00.000-07:00

I took Nathan and his cousin Lexie to see this movie last weekend. I think I enjoyed it even more than they did! Its such a creative, out-of-the box movie. In fact, I would say it's one of the best I have watched this year! I cannot wait until it comes out so we can own it. Definitely worth watching again.

My Star.

2010-09-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

This picture speaks volumes to me.
I see the face of a happy, content, thriving little boy.
Nothing could be more rewarding for a Mother than that.

A little message for you today...

2010-09-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

Star.

2010-09-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

Zayne is really into stars right now. He loves to look for them. He likes for you to draw them. He notices them everywhere! I never realized how many things have stars on them. The other day while we were traveling he noticed one on the side of a diesel passing by. He gets so excited. He says, "STAR!!!!!!!!!!" I love it!
I made him this star the other day. I made it out of cardboard and aluminum foil. He likes it a lot! It is now hanging in our living room window where he can stargaze any time he wants.

Wordless Wednesday~ School Days

2010-08-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

Breakfast Nook

2010-08-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

This is my breakfast nook. Nothing fancy. Very simple. But I like it. I love first thing in the morning and late afternoon how the sun illuminates the room and it feels so tranquil and airy. You can't see it but to the right there is a built-in desk and cabinet. It holds office supplies, books and paperwork. We basically eat every meal at this table. The nice new table in the dining room has become our homework/computer station. I don't like keeping the computer on the table but its very functional there. And not doing homework in there is not an option. That table gets a lot of use as well!

I am considering making an upstairs nook my new office/craft room. Right now that space is the most cluttered area of our home. It houses all of our yard sale/ storage stuff.

Park.

2010-08-25T05:41:00.000-07:00

A little while back we went to a park down the road from us. We had a really nice time! I was super excited to find a park with its swings positioned under the trees for some nice shade. This park has a covered bridge built in the late 1800's. There are plenty of places to picnic and the boys had fun in the water. Drew took Nathan and Noah out in the water and I had to hold my breath...and pray! He almost fell 2 different times because the rocks were slippery. I told him never again! Zayne and I sat on a rock and splashed in the water. The boys ran around and had a blast. We met a nice family with two little boys. Our boys LOVE the outdoors. I can't wait for cooler weather so we can go hiking.

Watermelon

2010-08-11T06:59:00.000-07:00

These two love watermelon! Here they are sharing a piece on 4th of July.

Messy Monday

2010-08-09T07:11:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one that has a mess like this to clean after every meal? I hope not. I need validation (and a maid!).

Sunday Scripture

2010-08-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life-in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. (Philippians 2:14-16)

I am trying to teach this to Nathan, to plant a little seed in him (and his brothers). This may be one of the top 3 scriptures in the Bible to me. My biggest desire in this world is for me and my family to make it to Heaven. I often times think of all the good, hard-working, loving people in the world that do not have a relationship with Christ. It makes me sad that they might never know him and that they will have labored for nothing. The closer I become to God, the more I feel an urgency for these people. We go through so much in this life, whether it be sickness, money troubles, death, pain. I have such peace and hope in knowing that 'our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.'-Romans 8:18

Piedmont Park

2010-08-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

Lots of fun and memories made here.

Pure.

2010-07-27T05:05:00.000-07:00

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY- (2004)

2010-07-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY...

2010-06-30T06:29:00.000-07:00

Today.

2010-06-26T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today we watched Nathan's baseball game, grilled hot dogs, went to the pool, and threw ball in the backyard. We are living the dream.

Cheering for my bubbie!

Zayne LOVES to play in the dirt!

Batter up

Garden Update

2010-06-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

The garden is coming along quite nicely! We have already picked a few jalapeno peppers, bell peppers, and tomorrow some of the squash will be ready for picking. I decided when starting this, I wanted to have an all organic garden and I must say I am pleased with my decision. The tomatoes will be ready in a few more weeks. I am ready for my tomato sandwiches! The green beans are starting to run and do what it is they do. It's so exciting to see the progress each day! I took these photos 2 days ago and it already looks different out there. Thank you Lord for your bountiful blessings!

The Birthday Boy

2010-06-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

This year Nathan's Birthday party fell on his actual Birthday. He is 8 Years Old.

8. Years. Old.

Time is surely flying and I wouldn't mind if it slowed down just a tad.

We enjoyed having family and some new friends join us this year.

He is really into baseball right now so I made him a baseball cake.

I like to reminisce about his baby years and how special those years were to us.

I love you Nathan and these past 8 years have been a true joy! You are such a treasure.

The Ball

2010-05-30T18:50:00.000-07:00

Nathan has always been sentimental about things and I like that about him. He can go a little overboard sometimes but I think it shows that he is caring and that is a great quality to have. About two years ago, Nathan went with Drew to the grocery store. Drew saw a ball that he thought Nathan might like. He asked Nathan if he wanted it and of course, b/c his daddy liked it, he did too. Well, a few days ago, Nathan was kicking that same ball around in the back yard and accidentally kicked it into the neighbors yard. They have a dog. Nathan came in to tell me so that I could go over and get it for him (he knows not to go in the yard without an adult even though it is a nice dog) I was busy doing something at the time so I told him I would get it later. Later came and he walked in looking pretty down so I asked him what was the matter. He started to tear up and said that the dog had busted his ball. I said I was sorry and that we would get him another one. He said, "but I wanted that one, it's the one that dad bought me at the store". "Daddy liked it and thought that I would too." Something so simple to me, something I wouldn't have thought twice about, meant so much to him. I wish I would have just stopped what I was doing and got the stinkin ball. The dishes could have waited a few minutes and he would still have his special ball. Lesson learned.

Our Garden!

2010-05-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

This is our first year growing our own food so I hope it goes well. We have planted tomatoes, squash, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, banana peppers, and green beans. If it is successful, we will grow more next year.

*the green beans have not sprouted yet.

----Nathan took this picture of the honeysuckle in our back yard. Pretty good for an almost 8 year old. ----

Amicalola Falls

2010-05-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Amicalola Falls. We had so much fun! My dad is staying with us for a little while so he was thrilled to come along. It is such a nice place to visit and I am sure we will be back soon!! Afterwards, we went to Dahlonega. We had fun walking downtown, into the charming little shops. We had lunch at Connie's. They have yummy paninis and good ole' Mayfield Ice Cream. Nathan panned for gold and gems. We struck gold!!

2010-05-11T12:05:00.001-07:00

Today has been just a good day. My dad is staying with us for a few weeks and today we had one of our discussion about the Bible and the Rapture. My dad is so knowledgeable about it and I learn so much from him. He is a good man of God.

Zayne had fun today playing trucks with him! Dad would push the truck on the ottoman and Zayne would watch it fall off and laugh and pick it up and give it back to Dad to push again.

We went for a walk and we always talk about our favorite houses on the street.

I just love my family so much! They all mean so much to me.

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Delight

2010-05-05T14:42:00.000-07:00

Earlier today I was starving AND I had a sweet tooth...the worst combo. I had to think quick. I grabbed my favorite peanut butter from the pantry and mixed in some Hershey's chocolate syrup. It was yum, yummy and it kept my hunger at bay while satisfying my sweet tooth! Hooray for PB&C!!!

Game Day!

2010-05-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Sunday, Nathan went with Drew and Grandad to his first braves game. They all 3 had an awesome time! I'm thinking there will be many braves games in our future! Oh, and the braves won!

2010-05-04T07:36:00.000-07:00

Zayne and Noah having a splashing good time with their new water table they received from Grammy and Grandad for their birthday!

Happy Birthday to my little boys!!

2010-05-02T13:22:00.001-07:00

Saturday we celebrated Zayne's second birthday and Noah's first. It was such a huge milestone and I can't believe it has already been a year since Noah was born. Around this time last year I was a little nervous about having two kids so close in age. I remember thinking, if I can just get through this first year. Turns out I had nothing to fear. No, it is not always easy, and it is just as hectic as I expected it would be, but he is my son and I love him with all my heart and that unconditional love is enough to get you through the hardest of times! So, in retrospect, I am glad that I had them so close in age. All 3 of our boys fill our hearts with such joy. It is a lot of fun watching them interact together. I think my favorite is when they give each other love without being asked. It is so much fun watching Zayne try his hardest to make Noah laugh. Also love watching Zayne laugh his head off when Nathan throws a pillow at him. Such wonderful memories are being made here.

The boys had an animal themed party this year. Everything was decorated so cute. We made tacos and had ice cream and cake. The boys behaved so good and I think they had a great time. They especially enjoyed digging in the cake. Noah had his own little cake and Zayne had a slice of the big cake. I believe he made just about as big of a mess as Noah. We all had fun spending time with our family and friends. Aside from a pretty gigantic pluming disaster, it was a great day.

City Mouse,Country Mouse

2010-04-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

I can't decide which one I want to be. Both are very appealing to me. We went downtown a few weeks ago and found the cutest street! It was a tree lined street with some historic homes and at the other end were very modern condos. We were surrounded by big, beautiful buildings. We were walking distance from Ikea, Starbucks, and the theatre for crying out loud! It was picture perfect(to bad I didn't have my camera). I imagined myself living there and looking out of my window at it all. Walking down the sidewalk to our favorite shops. I tried to decide if I wanted to live in the modern condos or a historic home. Then I became tired. I couldn't decide which one I would like more. The thought of having to choose became overwhelming. I am indecisive like that. This is a problem I have. It drives my husband crazy!

Anyway.

Then a few days later we drove around the countryside a bit and it was breathtaking! All of the farms, with their gardens and beautiful, charming farmhouses! There were mountains in the background for crying out loud! I pictured my kids running carefree through the fields, hanging clothes out on the line, and letting the fresh mountain air filter through my little country house. The house would be yellow with a white picket fence and some of our fondest moments would be when we all picked vegetable's from our garden together as a family.

I asked Drew if one day we could buy a country house and rent a condo in the city for the weekends. That way, we could have the best of both world's. He gave me that look he gives me before he tells me that we don't live in fairytale world. I think he is definitely on board!

Georgia on my mind

2010-03-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

Two post in one day? Man, I'm on a roll. You can tell the kid's are taking an extra long nap today!

So back a few weeks ago we moved...again. I remember when writing this post, I thought we were done with moving. I. HATE. MOVING. I could scream it from the mountain top. There is nothing more disruptive then packing up all your belonging's, weeks of being thrown off your schedule and having to place your life and all your belonging into a strange, new place. Then to re-settle everything and to expect life to just automatically carry on as it did before. Well, it is not that easy, at least not for me.I mean, call me crazy but I am getting a little tired of finding new doctors for everybody every few years, and figuring out where the closest Walmart and Target is. But that's ok because this is a good move. A move that we have been praying about for some time now. A move that will allow us more family time. We can actually have a schedule that sticks. The shift he will work will be dependable(except for a few emergency situations that come up every so often). Drew now has a better job with better hours. His old job had him working crazy hours with crazy shifts. The job is in Atlanta so we are kinda back to Drew's old stomping ground(he lived in ATL for 15 years before moving to Waycross.) Luckily we have some friends and family that live here so that makes it not so bad. So here I am saying it again. "I plan on staying here for a good long time." But I don't won't to jinks it. Considering the longest we have lived at one place is only a little over 3 years, We wouldn't have to stay here to long for it to be considered "a good long time." At least our children should be very adaptable.

Below are a few shots of the new homestead. It is still a work in progress. Please ignore the treadmill by the front door, it's not staying.Oh and Nathan is loving his new school and his neighborhood. He has already made lots of new friends!

2010-03-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

My dad and Zayne went for a long walk after lunch. Zayne found his favorite thing, a seed. Dad said he spotted it, walked right over and picked it up, and held it the whole way home. You practically have to pry it out of his hand. If I had a dollar for every seed he's found, my husband could retire.

They also picked me some ~~weeds~~ flowers.

perfect

2010-03-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting on my back porch with the laptop in my lap.

There is a breeze in the air but the sun feels so warm. PERFECT.

Just laid the boys down for their nap.

Zayne and Noah share a room now and it is going wonderfully!

They love to make each other laugh.

They also make each other cry.

That usually last for a few minutes, but today, Noah kept going.

I decided to take a peek.

Glad I did. His leg was stuck.

That qualified him for some extra snuggle time.

He ate it up!

** Just for the record, Noah is not always naked. It was really hot up in their room.

Daddy Bear & Scooby

2010-02-17T05:59:00.000-08:00

I guess Nathan wanted to make sure Daddy Bear and Scooby had a comfortable place to rest while he was at school! This is what I found in his room when I got back from taking him to school this morning. He is so thoughtful!

O is for OUTSIDE

2010-02-06T20:38:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if you have noticed but I like to take pictures of my kids outside.

First of all, they all 3 love it, I love the natural light, and we just have more room to run around and go wild.

'Outside' is usually the first word out of Zayne's mouth when he wakes in the mornings. I believe he learns and grows when he's around nature.

He loves to pick up acorns, leaves, "seeds" as we call them although Drew informed me that they are known as "gum balls" since it's from a Sweet Gum Tree, and sticks.

We have a brick path in the front yard that he trots up and down about a hundred times a day.

Because of our love of being outdoors, I'm really annoyed when it rains.

Noah Update

2010-01-19T09:30:00.000-08:00

Now we know he is saying outside. This is a very short clip so listen close, the video stops right after he says it. You will hear Zayne say it first.

Noah

2010-01-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take some time to get you up-to-date with Noah.
Oh. Sweet. Noah.
Sweet, short-tempered, scream deafening, darling little Noah. This guy has the lungs of an opera singer for sure! He is just as sweet and loving as can be but he can go from smiling to screaming in a matter of seconds.

He got his first tooth this month!

He will turn 9 months old on Jan. 30th.

He weighs 20lbs.

He LOVES to eat baby food and has even experimented a little with big people food.

He is very observant. You can tell him what something is and when you ask him about it later he will look all over the room until he finds it.

After many nights of near insanity (on my part) he is finally back to sleeping good at night and during nap time. Another great thing is you can now lay him down awake and he will go to sleep on his own!! I'm sure God helped me out with this one because I've been praying like a mad woman about this.

We think he is saying outside(probably got it from Zayne) he also says dada(also could have swore he tried to repeat me the other day when I was telling him the clock goes 'tick tock')

LOVES to watch his brother's!! Or any kid for that matter!

He has a fascination with clocks. He can spot one anywhere!

He does Sooooo much better in his car seat than what he used to.

Does not take his bottle very good right now although I have seen an improvement the last few days. He is also very particular about how he takes it and usually will only let me feed him.

Sits like a pro and can get around some on his stomach but is not what I would call 'scooting' yet.

He is just the perfect addition to this family and we don't know what we would do without him!!!

I'm sure I left something out but that's pretty much the life of our littlest guy right now. Here are a few pictures from Dec.-Jan. It's so hard for me to just pick a few. I have so many and even if it's 10 pictures of the same pose I still love them and keep them all because each one is just a little bit different.

He already looks up to his big brother!

Christmas morning at Aunt Jen-Jen's!

First visit with Santa. (he was more interested in the gift I think)

Him playing with his favorite toy at the moment. Above him are the animals that he LOVES to look at. He especially loves the Tiger, Lion, and Giraffe.

Watching Nathan play football.

Sweet little guy!

His mean face.

being tickled by daddy!

2010

2010-01-07T05:52:00.000-08:00

Looking at the title of this post just looks odd, doesn't it? 2010. wow. I remember back when I was in elementary school, thinking of what the world would be like in 2010. It seemed like such a futuristic date then. We are not flying space ships to work, but technology really has come a loooong way since then, thankfully.

Anyway...

2010 has started out to be quite a challenge thus far. Drew left the day after Christmas to work in Atlanta for a few weeks. He is still there as I type and won't be home until Monday. We miss him so much around here that it's just not even funny. Can I just say how hard it is to parent 3 little one's by yourself? Oh it has been such a challenge to say the least. Add a teething, waking numerous times a night, little 8 month old to the mix and just that in itself is enough to make you throw in the towel! Let's just say I have the utmost respect for mother's and father's that do this alone, everyday! Thankfully, my mom and dad have been rotating staying with me and helping me out. I honestly don't think I could have done it without them!! (Thanks Mom and Dad!!!)

Yes, this season in our lives is proving to be a difficult one, but we know that God has got a plan for us and pray for his guidance and strength daily! We have so much to be thankful for!

I think it is easy for sahm's (stay at home mom's) to feel they have lost their identify and their purpose. I'm not going to lie, I have often felt the same way. I have questioned "so this is it? This is all I was meant to do? Just as soon as those thoughts want to seep in, I feel such guilt and remorse. I did not just 'accidentally' end up with the husband I have or the kids I've been given...HE chose them to me for a reason. HE has trusted me with this important duty and I should not take it lightly. Children are God's most precious gifts and what an honor that he would chose to bless me with 3. And the answer is, no I do not feel this is ALL I was meant to do. There is so much more to me than being a mom and a wife (although they are the most important). But this is what I am meant to do now and it's the most important job I could ever have. There will be plenty of time for all the other 'stuff' one day but I only get these kids that I've got for a short time and I want to be the best I can be... for God, for them, and for ME!

Make sense?

I am going to try really hard at keeping up the ole' family blog better this this year. Not only for updates but something a little more heartfelt. A journal, if you will. I think it would be a nice outlet.

Here's hoping for a bright, happy, full filling new start to a new decade.

2009-12-03T09:48:00.000-08:00

Halloween and such...

2009-11-20T11:32:00.000-08:00

I finally had time to update my blog today. I don't have a lot to say today so I will let the pictures do the talking. It's been one of those days!! :(

My Andrew

2009-10-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

8 years ago we began this ride together.

8 years ago we vowed to stick by each other through thick and thin, good times and bad.

8 years ago we thought we could never love each other as much as we did that night.

8 years, 7 jobs, 6 moves, 5 cars, 4 positive pregnancy tests, 3 kids, a few hard times, and 1 perfect family later... I can still say I've never loved you as much as I do today.

Happy Anniversary.

Random

2009-10-09T06:51:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random pictures of our life the past week or so.

beginning to sit up

cereal for the 1st time

watching Baby Einstein together

using a fork

Noah is now eating rice cereal and avocado.

He weighs 17.5 pounds

Zayne loves to squish spaghetti into every crevice of his body.

He is getting better at using a fork.

Nathan is wearing his Halloween costume.

We wanted him to wait until Halloween, but that would be like asking the stars not to shine.

You can probably guess the costume is bakugan related.

Kingsley Ave. Park

2009-09-26T05:40:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went to this park. Drew's mom was also able to join us. It is located right down the road from us. It is a really neat park and we had a fun time with the kids. Noah pretty much slept the whole time, Nathan ran wild, and Zayne enjoyed swinging and playing in the dirt.

Catch Up Post...

2009-09-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

Things have been pretty busy around here for the Hale's lately!

Nathan is back in school. He really seems to like school this year, thank goodness. He likes his teacher a lot. He is at a school this year that is with in walking distance from our house so that has been nice. He loves for Drew to walk to the school and pick him up in the afternoon's. He has such a tender heart... especially when it comes to certain things about his brothers. He is very considerate of them and does not like for them to be left out. He has lost another tooth, learned how to ride the "big boy" bike that Nah-Nah and G-dad got him for his birthday. He's pretty stoaked about that. He is counting down the days until Halloween.

Zayne apparently is cutting more teeth :(

Symptoms: waking at night, excessive poopie diapers, frequent hands in the mouth.

I gave him motrin tonight before bed so hopefully we get good rest tonight. We will see. Other than that, this little boy is as good as gold. Seriously...he is hardly any trouble at all. Eats good, sleeps good, plays nicely around baby brother, obeys to the word NO(mostly), likes to ride in his carseat. He is just a wonderful, loving little guy! My heart swells when I think about him.

He's into sliding books around on the floor, playing ball, going outside any opportunity he gets, banana and grape's are his favorite, LOVES tearing down any attempt of my building him a tower, watching himself in the mirror, throwing things, watching baby einstein, attemping to open the blinds in his bedroom, and playing with cousins Lily and Layton.

*Update* -The Motrin worked!

Noah aka No-ster aka Noah Bear is doing wonderfully! He's a little chunk. His little rolls are just adorable! He smiles all the time, sleeps all night, and likes to play with his daddy. We caught him on video tonight rolling over. He has done it a few times before but is getting a lot more brave about it. Like Zayne, Noah LOVES to be outside. He is sometimes a little stubborn about going to sleep, and doesn't put up a fight when it comes to bath time. So far we have not been successful at getting him out of our room and into the room with Zayne. Apparently he has got used to the feel of that small, thin pack n play mattress. We keep trying though and he has even slept 1 solid whole night in there.

These boys rock my world!

Garage Sale Saturday!

2009-08-30T18:37:00.000-07:00

Lately my sister and I have been spending the better half of our Saturday's going garage-saleing(as I like to call it). We have the best time and manage to pick up some really neat and useful things. Last week I picked up a couple outfit's for Noah this winter, a I Can Read Transformer book (which Nathan now claims is his favorite book), and a Fisher Price dual race track and car toy I thought would be good for Zayne and Noah to share. My favorite find was a Fisher Price Laugh n Learn Kitchen. The thing looked brand new! Would you believe I only paid just a few bucks for it?

Here is what I got this week-

*Elmo Halloween costume for Zayne-.50
*2 still in the wrapper packs of color wonder paper, top-rated children's book, Happy Holiday sign, and (not pictured) 3 different but matching, very cute, Christmas stocking's for the boy's-6.00
*My favorite find of the day?!-that leather ottoman that's holding all of these goodies! -2.00! It now replaces the trunk that we were using as a coffee table.

8.50 TOTAL

SUMMER FUN AT THE BEACH!

2009-07-29T05:33:00.000-07:00

We went to St. Augustine beach yesterday. Zayne got sunscreen and sand in his eyes but still managed to enjoy it somewhat. His favorite part was sitting at the edge of the water letting the water splash against him and then jumping and splashing in it. Nathan and I looked for seashells and him and Grandad got out in the water a bit. Noah hung out under the umbrella with Drew for most of the day. It started getting hairy when both the little boys started crying so couldn't play football and fly a kite like we usually do. Nathan wasn't to happy about that, but at this point, it was necessary for us to leave. The biggest trick was rinsing everyone off with bottled water since we couldn't park by the showers. Somehow though, we got everyone calmed and cleaned so we decided to go shopping at the outlet mall. Overall it was a great day even though I still think that the beach is not a people friendly place at all.

WARNING!!

2009-06-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

...7 is a difficult age

Im frustrated...[sigh]

THINGS I COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT...

2009-06-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

..AND PURCHASE'S I'M GLAD I MADE!

1. COFFEE! (can't get going in the a.m. w/out it!)
2. moby wrap
3.baby einstien dvd's (this is WAY up on the list!)
4. MY VAN
5. outside swing (sure fire way to make Zayne happy)
6. white noise machine (I promise your baby will sleep better w/ one of these!)
7. car seat mirror (so you don't have to break your neck everytime you need to see your baby)
8. Jumparoo (trust me..it's worth the $$)
9. baby wipes (we even keep a container in the van)
10. SippiGrip
11. this snack (we take these with us on the go b/c they don't make a huge mess and they taste good)
12. Avent bottle brush (AND the bottle's)
13. this book(A day wouldn't be complete without reading it to Zayne)
14. and this one
15. foam mats (perfect for tile or hardwood floor)
16. Baby einstein bath book
17. yellow rubber duckie (doesn't every child own one of these?)
18. baby monet crib toy
19. Many different Leap Frog toys
20. these shoes (they stay on good)
21. all childrens books by Karen Katz
22. O-Ball
23. Vtech electronic book

Wow! And this wasn't even everything! This was a very detailed list but once I got started I couldn't stop :)

P.S. Hold on to this one because I plan to update it as I go

SPLASHING IN THE POOL!

2009-06-26T05:48:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the first time we have been in the pool this summer. Our sweet neighbor's invited us over. This was also Zayne's very first time in the pool. HE LOVED IT! He was so happy in there and just kept smiling and splashing around. He also learned how to drink from a straw while we were there. Can't wait to do that more often!

The 2 BABIES of the BUNCH!

2009-06-15T13:49:00.001-07:00

For the second day in a row, Zayne has napped longer than his 6 week old brother! What is up with that? I thought newborns where supposed to sleep all day?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATHAN!

2009-06-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

Nathan LOVES Bakugans

Drew is somewhere in this picture. Can you find him?

Nathan has been counting down the days and it's finally here! My little guy is now 7 years old! :(

Earlier in the week we made a trip to Waycross so Nathan and his best buddy Malachi could play and spend some time together. The day was spent running around like maniacs outside, building tents with every blanket in nana's house, more playing, and a movie. Both Drew and I took them to see the movie "Up" while my mom kept Noah and Drew's mom kept Zayne. Unfortunatly I forgot the camera so I don't have pictures but believe you me they had a BLAST!

On Friday I baked him a cake and he opened his presents. Jim, Jen, and Lily came over and celebrated with us. Nathan ended the day by going swimming at the neighbor's house.

2009-06-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

On his playmat for the first time

Noah's blanket Aunt Jen and Uncle Jim got for him

The Kids!

2009-06-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few pictures from the past month.

Noah is doing so good! He has even already slept through the night one night. He usually just wakes up 1 time during the night. I am so glad to because with 3 kids I sure do need my sleep! He is so observant and can already follow us a good distance from his face. He is a good baby and is eating like a champ. I put him on his playmat for the first time this morning and he fell asleep on it.

Zayne does so good with him! He likes to give him "love". He is interacting with his toys so much and loves to look at books and be read to. He likes to dangle things from his thumb. He quite good at it.

Nathan's last day of school is Thursday and he couldn't be more happy.

NOAH PEYTON IS HERE!

2009-05-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

April 30th, 2009 at 4:43 p.m.
7lbs 7oz
21 inches long

I went in to be induced at 6am and when they hooked me up to the monitors I started having contractions every 3 minutes. The doctor broke my water and I started from there. I guess he had already decided that this was going to be the big day! I was in labor for about 9 1/2 hrs. and after 3 pushes, he came right out. He is so sweet and perfect and we are already in love. Zayne seemed very intrigued by him today. He wanted to touch him and look at him. Nathan thinks he will do. We are both doing great and can't wait to go home tomorrow.

The BIG 1!

2009-04-26T20:04:00.000-07:00

Well we did it buddy, we sailed through the first year! I can't believe a year ago today I held you for the very first time. Your about to be a big brother but you will alway's be my little baby! Happy Birthday Zayne!! We love you so much!

Love,
Mama

Food for thought

2009-04-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am kinda in a cooking rut right now. I feel like I cook the same things over and over and I'm ready to spice things up a bit. Now a good reason for this is probably due to the fact that I HATE TO COOK! Soooo I need some ideas PLEASE!!

I can't stress quick & simple enough. I just don't have the time to put a lot of "effort" into a meal. And I'm not just talking dinner, I need ideas for lunch to. Something that us and the boys could enjoy. And I use the word "cook" lightly. It actually does not even have to involve "cooking". For example: My favorite lunch is bread toasted with garlic powder sprinkled on it cut into long pieces dipped in spaghetti sauce and melted cheese. Takes all of about 5 minutes to make and feels me up and is oh so yummy. I got inspired to make this when I thought back to some of the crazy things my sister and I used to come up with as kids. Like spreading spaghetti sauce over bread grating cheese over it and melting in the microwave. Basically I'm making the same thing just tried to make it feel a little more "grown up". As I was eating it the other day I actually got to thinking 18 yrs. later and I am stilling making myself the same lunch...How pathetic.

So.... if any of you out there could help me out with some ideas that would just make my day. Tell me what you make yourself for lunch, or what you had for supper last night. And when you hear of a good recipe, send it my way. I'm always thinking of ideas.

2009-03-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

My goodness how time is flying! I can hardly believe I only have like 8 weeks left before the baby is due! I have started my checklist to make sure I have everything I will need and that everything is in place. We have not bought a crib yet and I doubt we will have one before he gets here. I have not made my mind up on which kind of crib I want to buy. I would buy a bed just like the one Zayne has but it makes a full size bed and since they will be sharing a room, 2 full size beds would be to big. But, I have not found one I like that is just a standard crib. Oh well, he has a bassinet and that's all he needs at first anyway.
I've had a few sonograms done and on the last one the technician said she could see some hair! Maybe that explains all this heartburn I've been having. She also says that he is measuring big for his age. As of 2 weeks ago, he was already over 4 pounds. I must say this pregnancy had been more difficult as far as energy/moodiness goes. I'm finding it harder to get around than when I was pregnant with Zayne and I am VERY moody at times. Well actually pretty much all the time. This pregnancy feels more like my pregnancy with Nathan.
I have to say I'm a little nervous about being gone from Zayne for a few days when the time gets here. He and I have a "routine" and he doesn't like it to good when you go messing it up. Speaking of the little guy, tonight was the first night he said Mama more than once. In fact, it was like he was calling me to come to him. Anytime he started getting fussy and I could tell he wanted me to get him, he said it. He also finally got brave enough to crawl over the weekend. We were at Grammy and Grandads house. He has been making the motions for a long time now and is definitely strong enough. When he is in our bed he scoots all around but he knows the difference between the soft, cushiony bed and the hard ,cold floor. But Grammy's floor is nice and soft so he took off. Back at home today he was very hesitant but did it a few times. He LOVES any opportunity to go outside. Every time we pass by the door he stares at it in hopes that we will be going out. Sometimes he even cry's if I keep walking. In the mornings when he gets up I tell him we are taking bubbie to school and he starts moving his arms and legs in excitement, he LOVES taking him. I'm beginning to wander if its just because he knows we have to walk outside, even if it is just for the quick walk from the door to the van. I guess it doesn't hurt that he LOVES going places. He likes getting in his car seat and going for a ride. Especially if it is to the grocery store or out to eat. He love to watch people ESPECIALLY other children.
Another one of his favorite things is when Nathan plays with him or sings to him. Not only does it make him happy, it also makes Nathan happy to see that he can make him laugh. Today he was playing peek a boo with him. He would put his blanket over his face and pull it down and say peek a boo. Zayne would laugh so hard. I wish I would of had the video camera with me. It seems I never have the darn thing with me when I need it.
Well, I just wanted to share some of our latest. Hope everybody had a good one!

2009-03-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

2009-02-24T07:22:00.000-08:00

I heard a song today that just melted my heart and made me realize again that my kids are getting big and growing up (especially Nathan). I have a hard time thinking of them getting big and no longer being sweet little innocent kids. The song is called "It won't be like this for long" by Darius Rucker(singer from Hootie and the Blowfish). I recommend listening to it on days when you are stressed with the kids. I guarantee it will help. It was funny when I heard it b/c on particularly stessful days around here I have often told Drew that its ok b/c it won't always be like this and we might one day miss these "crazy" days. Like when we can't get a word in because Nathan is telling us for the millionth time that he is a super hero with magic flying powers . That Nathan is a jack of all trades let me tell you. You spend any amount of time with him and before you know it he is a firefighter, chef, bakugan bakuganer, batkid, etc...... He is getting so big and he's changing. After 5 years of sleeping with us at night he now sleeps in his bed in his own room THE WHOLE NIGHT LONG! I am so proud of him and we have been trying for such a long time and waiting for the day we would have a bed completely to ourselves but I can't help but be a little bit sad b/c its just one more step closer to him growing up.

Our House

2009-02-16T17:46:00.000-08:00

2009-02-14T13:23:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!

Drew and I actually celebrated our Valentine's Day on Thursday night which was pretty much the only night that would work for us. Drew's dad kept the kids for us and we went and ate Longhorns (my favorite steakhouse!) I got the prime rib as usual and so did Drew. It was so good and we had so much fun. Today when I woke up Drew had me flowers, chocolates, and a really sweet card. We got Nathan a big Hersery kiss, a coke, and card. We don't always just let him drink coke so he thinks its really special when he gets to drink one. We got Zayne a card and a small toy. Unfortunately Drew has to work tonight. Its rainy here so it would have been the perfect night for popcorn and a movie. Oh Well. I got my 2 little hearts here with me and we might just cuddle up and eat popcorn and watch a movie. Nathan wants to watch a movie that comes on tonight anyway.

Finally settled!

2009-02-13T18:34:00.000-08:00

Pulling up in his bed

He was so proud

Zayne's 1st time taking a big boy bath by himself

Well, the move is over and I survived it! It was tough but everything now is pretty much all put away and we got rid of lots of stuff we didn't need in the process. Im always very uptight until the last box is unloaded and in its place. I didn't sleep good until everything was put away. I can not stand for things to be out of place. That is a pet peeve of mine. We are already enjoying our yard so much and I love the appliances in the kitchen so much better than at the townhouse. Zayne was sick with his first cold during it all and that made it a lot harder. Luckily on moving day he was a lot better.

I don't have a picture of the house on my computer yet but will post it when I do. I tried to post some pictures of Nathan but for some reason it wouldn't let me. And I promise I will post a pregnant me soon!

A DAY IN THE LIFE

2009-01-22T21:27:00.000-08:00

So much has been happening the last few weeks I've not had a chance to get on here. I added some pictures to the album to the right under Nate and Zayne but Im not sure I have it set up like it needs to be yet. To view them I think you will have to click on "my pictures" and then click on the center album. Let me know if you can't view them. I would like to organize the albums better but I just don't have the time. At least in our picture program on our computer it keeps up with when the picture was taken. I love things that were invented to make life a little bit easier.
Above is a picture from Zayne's 1st hair cut and his 1st cracker. I know it doesn't look like he had much of a haircut but at least his bangs are out of his face now. We can tell its cut. I just couldn't bring myself to let her cut much off. Maybe a little more next time.
We are also in the process of moving to a new house! I hate moving and Drew and I realized the other day that each time I have been pregnant, we move! As if pregnancy isn't tiring enough!?! We needed a house as opposed to the town house. We live in a good neighboorhood and a nice setup here but we all miss having a yard so bad. This house is going to be perfect so I have NO plans in moving for a long time. Its a older home (which we love!) but it has been updated. I will have to post some pics when we move.

Nathan has been sick with bronchitis and had to miss school yesterday. He is feeling much better today thank goodness. He has been having so much homework...and he only in 1st grade! He HATES doing homework and usually has a bad attitude about it which makes it stressful. I dread to see what it will be like next year and then on... I can't imagine right now having to sit down and do homework with 3 kids!!! It is a mad rush once Nathan gets in from school. This is a typical day for me: Wake up, fix myself some coffee, wake Nathan up, fix him some chocolate milk and give him his meds, (right now he is on 3 extra meds for his bronchitis so this adds more time I have to count 12345 before he gulps down each one) he drinks that, goes to the bathroom, and gets dressed. I fix him breakfast while I am constantly having to stay on him to get moving, then Zayne wakes up and I change his diaper then I move Nate along from eating to the bathroom to brush his teeth while I fix his hair, then I quickly get dressed while he gets his shoes on and finds his bookbag, I put Zayne in the van, grab my coffee (which is cold by now), call for Nate to get in the van then preceed to take Nathan to school. I come back home fix Zayne a bottle and snug up to him while he drinks (Im so glad he can hold his own bottle now!), I play with him in the bed then we get up and by then Im usually about to starve so I fix myself something to eat(which has started taking me longer b/c Zayne wants some of whatever I eat), then usually have to change his diaper and get him dressed. I spend a lot of time playing with him with whatever we decide to do and check my emails. Then start laundry and usually having to clean up a mess somewhere in the house while Zayne is entertaining himself for a while. Then its time to feed him his babyfood, after that I read him a story and lay him down for a nap. By that time I am usually ready to eat lunch so I fix myself something and sit down on the couch and watch tv for a little while for a little bit of me time. Then I usually fold up laundry and clean kitchen or whatever else needs to be done and if I am unusually tired I will sometimes catch a quick nap. Then Zayne wakes up I change him and he drinks a bottle. We play ...he eats a little snack...then before you know it...time to pick Nate up from school. Then that's when the REAL busy part begins. He comes in eats a snack then its time to get started with home work which usually consist of him having to read a story(sometimes short but usually long), going over spelling words a bunch of times, and a work sheet or 2. Zayne usually is in need of something after all of this so I see to him and get something started for supper. Drew comes home we eat, (which takes a while b/c Zayne has to be fed his food along with some of ours) we go clean the church which takes us around 2 hrs. Come home, time for the boys to get ready for bed. Nate gets his bath and one of us wash Zayne , then Nate drinks 1 more cup of chocolate milk and brushes teeth (which I have to stay on him to keep moving like I do in the mornings) then if Drew has to work the next morning he goes to bed I give Zayne his bottle then put him to bed. By that time if I have the energy I clean the kitchen and I take a bath and go to bed. Now the load is less for me if Drew does not have to work so that is always great. Problem with his work schedule is that it is not much of a "schedule" he works different times on different days. And I cringe to think of him back on night shift b/c then that whole "after school rush" is all on me. There are some advantages to his schedule thought b/c most times he only works 3 -12 hr.days then he is off 3 days in a row. He is such a HUGE help and we always have fun when he is off. I can't say enough great things about him. I pick on him some when he's off b/c he's always trying to catch a nap when he can. I remind him he thinks he's tired now but the real fun will begin when we add another to the game. You know though, I wouldn't trade it for nothing. I enjoy my crazy life. It has its moments but I feel so blessed to not have to miss a moment of my kids lives. I cherish my time at home with Zayne b/c I have seen how fast these years go by.

Well, I didn't intend to write a bio and Im not complaining about my life b/c I know I am just part of the millions that do it everyday. Just wanted to share the "Day in the life of April Hale" :) Its busy but its WONDERFUL! Good night!

5 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!...

2008-12-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

Is everyone ready?!? Well I'm glad to say that we are! Nathan has been counting down the days since November. He is so excited! I love seeing all the excitement he has, it reminds me of when I was little. It was and still is such a magical time of the year for me. I always hate to see it pass. Nathan especially had a great time this year decorating the house. We love to try and catch all the Christmas movies on tv. I have a few special one's that I try and catch every year. They are one's that my family would always watch every year. I can't believe they still come on. I also like watching the old Christmas cartoons and other Christmas cartoons with Nathan. I try and remind Nathan (and even myself) often of the real reason why we celebrate Christmas because I think in this day in time people loose focus of what it's all about.
Zayne enjoys looking at and touching the Christmas tree. He is sitting up so well now and LOVES to get his hands on papers and slinging them everywhere. I think this will make opening presents very fun for him :)Something else about him is he loves to eat our food! Just about anything were having he likes. I cut them up to teeny tiny pieces and he devours it with his mouth open for more. He is just a happy, fun little guy, I LOVE IT!
I have our Holiday pictures over to the right so check them out. I put them all on here b/c I didn't have time to choose the best. Some are not that great but many turned out wonderfully.

I hope everyone's Christmas is filled with love, laughter, and many special memories!

Thanksgiving Pics!

2008-11-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We definately have a lot to be thankful for that's for sure! There are more in the online album to the side. ENJOY!

PARTY OF FIVE

Bedtime Buddy.

On this Monday.

Today.

What I love Wednesday.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Just a cute little house.

The curious case of Zayne and Noah.

October 13, 2011

Creation Museum

Thou Shalt Live Comfortably--And Other Things God Never Promised

Wordless Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday

so far this week we have...

Inspiration for Mothers.

Happy Birthday Zayne!

Sandbox.

Jesus Will Still Be There.

Trip with Daddy.

Silky.

snack time

"Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it". -Anne Shirley

What a girl wants...

I love this man...

Birthday.

Poor little blog.

Today's lunch was last night's dinner

November 11, 2010

What did we do today?

Hope everyone had a...

Fall Festivities, part 2.

Fall Festivities, part 1.

9 years.

(Not Quite) Wordless Wednesday

Haircut.

Wordless Wednesday~ Me and my shadow

the post where I complain about my day!

Fall is here!

I have to brag

Nanny McPhee Returns

My Star.

A little message for you today...

Star.

Wordless Wednesday~ School Days

Breakfast Nook

Park.

Watermelon

Messy Monday

Sunday Scripture

Piedmont Park

Pure.

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY- (2004)

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY...

Today.

*Garden Update*

The Birthday Boy

The Ball

Our Garden!

Amicalola Falls

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Delight

Game Day!

Happy Birthday to my little boys!!

City Mouse,Country Mouse

Georgia on my mind

perfect

Daddy Bear & Scooby

O is for OUTSIDE

*Noah Update*

Noah

2010

Halloween and such...

My Andrew

Random

Kingsley Ave. Park

Catch Up Post...

Garage Sale Saturday!

SUMMER FUN AT THE BEACH!

WARNING!!

THINGS I COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT...

SPLASHING IN THE POOL!

Garden Update

Noah Update