PTI

Pardon the Interruption from The Great Blogging Challenge, while our family takes the time to say,

Happy October 31st!!!!

From Gigi, God's Little Princess...





Strawberry Shortcake....


and Nemo....

Happy Fall, Happy Autumn, Happy Harvest, and Happy My-Favorite-Time-Of-Year!!!

Blogging Challenge - Day 4

What in the world is this all about?


Day 4 - A picture of someone/something that has had the biggest impact on you.

Simple Question.

Marrying this man...

And having these kids....

On December 17, 2005, my life changed forever as I put on a white dress, walked down an aisle, took a new name, and became a wife.

Since marrying my best friend, I have learned to walk along side another and love in a way I never thought possible. This man has taught me to forgive quickly, disagree peacefully, love intentionally, lead courageously, and dream wildly. I have watched God do immeasurably more than I could ever think or imagine through life's twists and turns. And even though we are seemingly at a serious twist in our life right now, I have never loved this man more.

Ben also gave me life's greatest blessing - being a mom. While this privilege came a little earlier (and a little closer together), than we had ever imagined, we thank God everyday for knowing better than we do. My children have taught me to speak carefully, walk slowly, act patiently, live selflessly, and hold on to each moment. Each day, I watch them grow a little more into independent beings, and I long to make each day teachable, as I train them to make good choices, think for themselves, and live a life wholly devoted to Jesus.

Thank you Jesus, for the gift of being a wife and mother. Thank you for planning better for my life. Thank you for allowing them to make me a better person. Thank you for giving me four necks to hug, four checks to kiss, and four hearts to love. And thank you for giving that all in return.

Blogging Challenge - Day 3

Of course, Here are the rules.

Day 3 - Somewhere you have been.

This question was a toughy for me.

I have had the wonderful opportunity of traveling to some pretty neat places.

Siesta Key, Cozumel, Key West, Boston, Poland, Brazil - just to name a few.

Each one of these places is filled with times and tales that I could go on and on about.

While trying to decide the best choice, my heart kept returning to the same place.

Several years ago, in the Summer of 2002 to be exact, I had the awesome opportunity to travel to the Dominican Republic for a "mission" trip.

Now, this wasn't a standard mission trip. We, myself and a slew of members of my church, traveled here to help host a conference for all the missionaries in the area. It was their annual meeting and time of refreshment.

Their time of refreshment and our place of ministry, just happened to be here:

Rough job. I know.

It was beautiful. Complete with 4 pools, three dining areas, two restaurants, a miniature golf course, concerts, and an all-you-can-eat/open-24-hours/on-the-beach pizza shack.

I had so much fun on this trip. And while the food, entertainment, beach, and spending time with a bunch of missionary kids was totally awesome, I think I have fond memories of this trip for different reasons.

You see, I got to enjoy all these great things with my big brother.

My brother, Neal, and I grew up the best of friends.

Don't get me wrong. We had our moments. Like the time he jumped on my back and busted my chin open. Or when he refused to go hang out with me and my Florida friends, thus shortening my curfew by TWO HOURS! Or the time he got in the back seat of my car after a cheerleading game and I just about stabbed him with my car keys.

But we also had a lot of great memories. We collected Batman Forever paraphernalia, went to Britney Spear's concerts, and listened to Wilson Phillips. We signed our siblings birth certificates, aced Native American Culture, and shopped at Wal-mart in the wee hours of the night. And we went to the Dominican Republic.

While I didn't know it at the time, this trip was kind of a last hoo-rah for my big bro and me. The very next summer, he would marry my totally awesome sister-in-law and his world would be forever changed. He got sucked into the world of jobs, mortgages, and preparing to start a family.

A world that I would soon join only a few years later.

Responsibility changed us both - for the better - but I am so glad we got to have that last fling of craziness and fun. I know they are memories I will always cherish.



Maybe one day Neal and I and our awesome spouses can return.

Without kids.

Blogging Challenge - Day 2

(Here are the rules, in case you want to play along!)

Day 2 - A recent picture of you and your friends.

Jessica is my best friend, and has been since the sixth grade.

Well, in all honesty, probably like mid-sixth grade, because I think that first semester, we were a little "unkind" to the new girl (aka. jessica), but she has forgiven me for that. At least, I hope.

This past weekend was Jessica and I's annual biggest shopping day of the year. The last weekend in October is our city's annual craft show. It is Un.Real. We always have so much fun, and this year was the first time we got to shop for her new little girl!

It is always more fun to spend someone else's money.

It rained on us a little, but that never stops our fun.

I truly love this girl like a sister. She has been there for me through some serious highs and through some serious lows, and I am sure she will be there for a few more.

Blogging Challenge - Day 1

Here are the rules in case you missed them!



Day 1: A recent picture of yourself, and 15 interesting facts.

1. I have a nervous habit of grabbing the child in closest proximity to me as soon as I see a camera approaching. I get nervous during solo shots - where do my arms go? Do I tilt my head? Should I act surprised? Its all too much for me. Hence the picture above.

2. If I had been a boy, my name would have been Heath. Like the candy bar.

3. I teach three year olds twice a week at a Learning Center and it is the HARDEST job I have ever had. But one of the most rewarding.

4. I have had the same best friend since the sixth grade.

5. I have five adopted brothers and sisters.

6. I sometimes wonder if dinner time will ever be peaceful again.

7. I can touch the tip of my nose with my tongue.

8. Everyday, I miss the friends I made in Fort Worth.

9. I am so thankful that each morning, I get to wake up and live my dream of being a stay-at-home mom.

10. My own kids' mucus, poop, and vomit is doable. Your kids' mucus, poop, and vomit is NOT doable.

11. Some of my friends go on vacays with just their spouse every year. While I think that is cool, I can't imagine going to all these cool places every year and not taking my kids! Yes, it can be stressful, but just about every night, my kids pray to go back to "Fwardia."

12. I am 80% done with my Christmas shopping. Sound the alarm.

13. I put Beauty and the Beast on my girl's Christmas list, but it is mostly for me.

14.I use to cringe when my dad would turn on Home Improvement shows on a Sunday afternoon. Now, I'm addicted.

15. In the time it took me to write this measly post, I have changed a massively poopy diaper, bathed all three children, conducted breakfast, done SIX loads of laundry, made a trip to the grocery store, and begun preparing dinner. No, this is not normal.

See you all tomorrow!

The Great Blogging Challenge!

Starting Wednesday, I will be embarking on The Great Blogging Challenge. Ok, so maybe it is just big to me, but hopefully you will participate too!

Here is the challenge. For ten days, blog daily, answering the question for the day in a honest and opininated fashion! It is your blog, afterall!

If you participate in the day, come visit my post, and feel free to link up your blog in the comments! Let's get to know eachother better!

Maybe you have neglected your blog the past few weeks (or months), or maybe you have a hard time coming up with material for the blog, or maybe you just want to capture who you are in this very moment for your children to read one day. Either way, join us!

Here are a list of the questions, just to prepare yourself.

Day 1 - A recent picture of yourself and 15 interesting facts.
Day 2 - A recent picture of you and your friends.
Day 3 - A picture of somewhre you have been.
Day 4 - A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you!
Day 5 - Short term goals for this month and dreams for your life ahead.
Day 6 - When your Ipod is on shuffle, what are the first 10 songs it might play.
Day 7 - Nicknames you have, and why you have them.
Day 8 - Something you crave.
Day 9 - A letter to your parents.
Day 10 - A picture of you last year and a picture of you this year. How have you changed?

Don't be shy. It is your time to say anything you want, and let the whole world know about it. Of course, I never really seem to need an excuse for that.

See yall on Wednesday!

(Thanks Kinsey, for the great idea!)

Sebastian

I would like to introduce you to a very important member of our family.

This is Sebastian.

Sebastian arrived on our doorstep in a black trash bag, almost as if fate had planned it himself.

(That is if "fate" is also known as a mommy friend of mine, who was bringing over some rummage for me to sell in my yearly garage sale.)

When Ellie Kate met eyes with this brown, furry little creature, that was it. She was smitten. He was hers. And I somehow knew that this was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. (Not for me - have you ever tried laundering a stuffed animal? Not. Easy.)

I know what you are thinking. Why Sebastian? Most people would have just innocently named this little creature after a very popular book series in which the main character's name is George.

But stuff like that is for normal people.

My husband insisted to my at-the-time two year old who had no idea that this little guy was an icon, that our newest family member needed a proper name. "Something strong," he suggested. "Something like, Sebastian."

And that was it. He has been with us ever since.

And when I say "with us," I mean, EVERYWHERE!

He spends some time here, in the time-out chair, often offering comfort and a sound ear to my darling daughter, reinforcing the reprimand that I had just instilled. Such a good boy, that Sebastian.

He eats his meals with us...

He even has his own toothbrush.

And potty training just wouldn't have been the same without him.

"See, Ellie Kate, Sebastian like to sit on the potty. Don't you want to go too?"

And We are insisted upon treating him just like we would any other Ramsey family baby.

He gets diapered, nursed, and swaddled.

And even gets to take his turn in the jumperoo.

Often times, I find him in some pretty interesting places.

Like the bottom of the bathtub...

I can't tell you how many times I have found him here. You know, after spending thirty minutes desperately searching for him all over the house.

And poor Sebastian even gets placed in the shoe drawer occasionally.

Although often mistreated, sometimes neglected, and often put into situations unintended by the manufacturer, this little guy is very forgiving. In fact, most of the time, you can find him in the lovings arms of his mama.

My life - according to my iphone

If you are anything like me, your kids always strike an award winning smile with the most beautiful scenic view perfectly proportioned behind them - at the exact moment you can't find your camera to capture it all.

Thanks God for my iPhone.

Seriously, it is with me ALWAYS, and acts as a perfect camera at those photo-opp moments.

Too bad most of those pictures never make it off my cellular device.

Until today.

Today, I want to share with you, my life - according to my iPhone.

A few weeks ago, we visited a pumpkin patch. Ben has been working overtime on the weekends, and so we do AN.Y.THING. to fill the time.

I teach at a Learning Center twice a week, and my kids get to attend as well. I have the privilege of having this little cutie-pa-tootie in my class. Isn't she a doll? She must have good genes. (did I mention she is my niece?)

Here is a capture of Ellie Kate's room post-"nap-time." Yeah, some nap. But I did get some chores done - which are now overshadowed by the fact that I will spend the next hour helping my three year old clean up this mess.

At least once a day, I threaten the old, "I am going to take every single toy out of this room and give it to a little girl who will treat them kindly!" speech.

Sometimes, it is a fight to get my kids to eat their meals. Snacks are no problem, but mean times with vegetables, protein, and fiber - no way, now how, no thanks.

So I get creative.

They will eat exponentially better when seated on the counter. (don't worry, I am always within an arm's reach.)

My brother, a children's pastor, is hosting a HUMUNGO carnival as his church. They have thousands of pieces of candy donated for the event. And my kids, and their cousin, decided to go for a swim.

Here is Stone and I just about every Saturday morning - dressed in our Ohio State gear. He is the only one I can sway to my side - mostly because he is the only one I still dress.

My little man adores his big sisters. And they adore him. Ellie Kate is a terrific mini mom.

Ellie Kate's massive shoe collection. Oy Vay.

When I found out I was preggo with Peyton, only seven months after giving birth to Ellie Kate, I cried. In fact, I cried for weeks. Just ask my mom.

When I found out it was a girl, I cried some more. You know, just because.

And now I cry some more. I cry when I watch these two best friends play, share, giggle, hurt, and love every single day. They are crazy about each other, and I am crazy about them.

Oh, I forgot, they also throw massive temper tantrums together.

Stone loves to stand at the back window and just watch the dogs run around in the backyard. He is definitely going to be an outside kid.

This kid's expressions melts my heart.



Typical Peyton. She always makes things a little bit more difficult than they have to be. For instance, why pick the normal sized Dora the Explorer when you can have one that is LIFE SIZED!



Ahhhh..... Stone's crib bumper - handmade in Boston. Maybe one day it will actually go in his crib in his one room. You know, whenever he has his own room. Please God, soon?



I don't know why I subject myself to the punishment of consignment sales. Oh yea, because of the great deals. I actually worked the one this year. Here was my view from my station.

Funny thing is, I think I went to high school with the girl digging through that sock/leggings tub.




Phew, that was fun. Any of you have any interesting pics of our phones? Link up in the comments! Or feel free to comment on anything of your choosing.

J

October 15

Yesterday, October 15th was National Infant Loss Day.

I am so grateful that I have never had to say good-bye to any of my babies, but I am surrounded by women who have had to face such a daunting task.

Their braveness through adversity is often a testimony of God's comfort and healing touch. That is not to say that that time wasn't filled with many tears and questions. I can only imagine what it must feel like to let go of something made just for you.

Today, I am thankful for my three babies and for their health and constant reminder of how truly blessed I am. I am so undeserving, yet so honored to carry the task of being their mother.

Today I am also remember my dear friends and family who have miscarried, delivered stillborn, or said good-bye to their newborn babies. You are a testimony to me and to so many other mothers. God bless each and everyone of you for your strength and perseverance.

I want to share a story with you. It is one I was introduced to over a year ago, but was reminded of again as I remembered my friends on October 15th.

While this video brings me to tears, it is a great testimony of God's comfort and mercy as His children are met with some of life's greatest challenges. It is also a reminder of the sanctity of life and how each inhale and exhale is a perfect gift from our Maker.

Choosing Thomas


To all moms who remembered their babies yesterday, may God give you peace during troubled times and joy at the thought of holding your babies someday.

La Leche League of 2030

I buy my kids a lot of fun toys, I promise, I really do!

I have bought them bounce houses that have been the hit of many a birthday party... They have been given presents that have heightened their imaginations.....

And they have enormous play centers that take up more square feet than the average refrigerator!

And yet still, after taking a mere three minutes to put their little brother down to sleep, I often find my two darling daughters in a scene much like this...

Now granted, they have seen me use this glorious apparatus many a time, and they make-believe mommy in every other way, so why am I even surprised?

Although sometimes, they do get a little confused.

And I can assure you I never use it like this.

Seriously, I don't know where these kids come up with this stuff. (And yes, they are sanitized properly after each use. Please don't email me about it.)

Oh how funny little girls can be. I just hope, when they are teenagers, they find these pictures as funny as I do right now.