Ellie Kate and Peyton

2011-11-21T16:17:00.004-06:00

My kids are officially obsessed with this movie...

I don't even really remember what started it.

It was honestly, probably a desperate attempt to watch anything that wasnt animated or entitled Tangled.

I stuck it in sometime this past September and my kids have been glued. They can almost recite every line. Everyday when Stone wakes up, nearly the first word out of his mouth is "ninch." Its become so bad that I have declared it a 'basement ONLY' movie - which simply means they can only watch it in the basement.

So this is where Stone sits at least three times a week and watches "ninch."

(and please don't just the purple seat that reads "Ellie Kate" that my son is so fondly sitting in. He has his own chair - its just in the garage and hasnt been assembled yet. Maybe for his birthday?)

My girls even chose to be Cindy-Lou-Who for our church's Trunk or Treat.

I am racking my brain trying to come up with a few other holiday un-animated movies that my kiddos might enjoy as much. Home Alone seems too intense. The jokes in Elf are WAY over their head. Maybe The Santa Clause? Suggestions?

And for your parting pleasure, here are my two youngeset (although soon to be my two middle...ahh!) giving their impersenation of their favorite green guy.

Halloween brownies

2011-11-12T09:42:00.005-06:00

Every October I am faced with the same dilemma. And the dilemma seemingly grows every year - partially due to the fact that I have new trick-or-treaters every year and the other half attributed to the fact that my trick-or-treaters hand capacity increases annually.

So nearly one week after "national candy day," I am still left with this tremendous pile.

Now for the dilemma. What to do with it?

I went on a google hunt. Found great ideas like cashing it in at your pediatric dentist, sending it to overseas troops, or throwing it away by the fistfuls with each fit my child throws. But then I remembered I was 8 months pregnant. I am not about to drag my kids to the dentist just to have candy-giveaway meltdown. And I love the troops, but I don't even go to the post office when I am not ginormously preggo. And throwing it away by the fistful is against my non-wasteful ways.

And then I hit jackpot. I typed in "Halloween candy recipes."

Up popped an enticing recipe for brownies that included any and all chocolate yumminess you may have lingering in that trick-or-treat bowl.

So I enlisted the help of a little buddy - and we got to work!

If brownies from scratch seem intimidating to you like they do to me, have no fear, its quite simple. As simple as any cookie recipe - and without all the harmful artificial gunk and preservatives.
Next, you tear all the candy goodness into bite-size pieces and throw it into the batter. Oh, and I guess forget what I said about the omission of all those artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Or just don't think about it. At least that's what I did.

Throw it all into a 13 X 9 inch greased pan and salivate for the next 35 minutes as your house fills with the aroma of chocolaty goodness.

Its better than any Yankee candle.

Do some clean up while you wait. It will help pass the time and pressure to take them out early and dig in with nothing but a fork and a glass of milk.

I must say, these were some of the best brownies I have ever made. It was a different taste with each brownie. Sometimes you got a kit-kat, other times a milk dud, and then sometimes you'd hit the jackpot and taste the perfection of milky-way.

Errrr, I mean, so I've heard. My husband told me that's what it was like. I wouldn't know.

Here's the recipe for all inquiring minds:

Chocolate Grab-Bag Brownies

"Halloween candy brownies"

Ingredients:

2 cups candy bars, chopped ( any combination that you like!)
1 cup butter ( or margarine)
2 cups sugar
2/3 cup cocoa, Hershey's
4 eggs, beaten
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

Heat oven to 350°F Grease 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Remove wrappers from candies. Cut each candy into 1/2-inch pieces; set aside.

Melt butter in saucepan over low heat. Add sugar and cocoa; stir to blend. Remove from heat. Stir in eggs. Stir together flour, salt and baking soda; stir into chocolate mixture. Stir in vanilla and candy pieces. Spread in prepared pan.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until brownies begin to pull away from sides of pan and begin to crack slightly; do not over bake. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars.

Yummy. Happy baking!

Welcome back!

2011-11-04T20:00:00.010-05:00

So, its been a while, huh?

Like 6 months a while.

I would say "whoops," but that would imply some sort of regret. And regret it I do not.

Sometimes when we undergo some of the most significant life changes, its important to do it with some sense of intimacy. My little family underwent some enormous ups and down over the past three years, and honestly, I wanted to take these past six months to heal, grow as a family, and just enjoy life with our new set of circumstances.

And enjoy it we have. We really couldn't be happier in life right now, and I am so forever indebted to so many of you for your constant prayer and support. This blog was more than therapeutic for me, and I am so glad I have it to remind me of where I was and who I have become.

But with a 6 month absence, a lot has occurred.

We took an awesome beach vacation, as one last hoop-lah before we embarked on our big move. It was a glorious two weeks filled with sun, family, and lasting memories.
We also took our vacation as the opportune time to announce to all our family and friends the future arrival of another Ramsey.

We found a house - Praise the Lord - and it has already been the foundation of our new journey. It has hosted birthday parties, play dates, and many a youth function. It may not hold our growing family for long, but for now - its a perfect fit.

We started our work in full-time youth ministry again, and we are so glad we didn't abandon God's calling. He is working and teaching us new things everyday and we are so blessed to be called.

We have fallen in love with this little peanut, to which we have decided to be surprised of the gender, and therefore, give our families severe anxiety. You know, it was all a part of our masterful plan. *insert evil laugh here*

We even survived our first snow storm. It really wasn't so bad - except it makes me want to bake goodies and put up the Christmas tree.

Can't wait to get back in the swing or keeping everyone up-to-date on the Ramsey happenings.

Thanks for the continued e-mails I received from so many of you - wondering if we had fallen off the face of the planet. Sorry about that. I blame the altitude.

If you are new around here, and want to stay up to date on everything going on around the blog, just click the "Join this site" on the upper right hand corner of the page.

That's it for now, but until next time...its so good to be back.

Journey

2011-05-16T14:34:00.004-05:00

Today marks the beginning of the end of the Ramsey 5 in OKC.

Ben leaves Thursday to embark on this new and exciting journey of the Ramsey 5 in Denver, and while we are thrilled at whats in store for us, our hearts are a little sad to leave this life behind.

"What is she talking about? She flipping griped for 18 months about a new job and now shes sad?"

I know, I'm a complex thing. Just ask my husband.

One of the hardest things to leave behind is our church home.

For the past year, we have been faithfully attending Journey Church in Norman, OK. Here we have heard some of the most influential teaching either of us have heard in our entire lives.

When we first stepped foot inside this church, it was exactly one week after leaving our ministry position, and it happened to be the first week in which Ben and I were attending church together as a married couple. Ben has served in full time ministry since a year before we tied the knot, and his Sunday mornings were packed full of everything from setting up chairs, preaching a sermon, keeping unruly teenagers out of the parking lot, and discussing life matters with concerned parents in the lobby. We had spent the past 5 year doing these things and so much more, and frankly, we were tired.

We were tired and dry. Dry spiritually, dry emotionally, and dry physically. We longed for days when Ben could drive with us to church, help drop his OWN kids off in the preschool, worship alongside me, and discuss the sermon in the noisy car-ride home.

When we walked into Journey that Sunday morning, those cushioned chairs never felt better. We sat, looked at each other, wondering what to do next, only to realize that all our duties included for the day was to worship and listen.

And it was awesome. I will never forget that first Sunday. The youth led worship. The youth did the announcements, and the sermon was all about- yep, you guessed it - youth. It is one of the most life-changing sermons I have ever heard. Clark, our pastor, was doing a series on devoting your life to changing the next generation. I mean, it was as if the heavens parted and the angels were singing the Hallelujah chorus over our two individuals cushioned chairs. In the sermon, Clark encouraged all members of the church to "Get in the sandbox" and make a difference in the lives of the next generation. (you can listen to the full version on Itunes by searching NT40 under podcast. The sermon is entitled NT40-The Sandbox.)

We were hooked. And we had to go back.

Needless to say, we never left. We since have gotten involved in the youth ministry, serving 9th grade students. We have formed some of the most incredible ministry friendships, and we have learned so much about how to do effective ministry. And most importantly, we were reminded of the importance of church as a family.

Ben and I, and the kids for that matter, had become so accustom to sewing into the lives of others, we forgot the importance of being fed ourselves. Journey Church gave us rest, they gave us encouragement, they gave us support, and they gave us the nourishment we needed to get back out there and till the soil.

Journey Church and all who became a part of our family there:

Thank you for taking care of this family and being just what the church should be to a family in emotional upheaval. You came alongside us amidst a difficult time and encouraged us to keep our heads up, reminding us that God's ways are the best ways. You showed us what church can be like when its leaders are focused on serving God and serving others, and you gave us hope in what was to come. You reignited our passion for students, and helped show us our shortcomings and our desire to do it better in the future. Thank you JourneyKids for loving on our kids, and creating a safe place for them to learn to love God and learn to love others. Thank you StudentJourney for giving us the privilege to work alongside some of the most incredible students leaders I have ever known. And thank you Journey staff for leading a church that truly is a beacon on a hill. We are now ready to go forth and spread the good news to all nations - or at least Denver. The seeds you planted will only grow in our new ministry, and we can't wait to see what God does for His Kingdom. Love to you all.

-Ben & Meredith

Life - According to my iphone

2011-05-09T15:27:00.006-05:00

If you missed the first rendition - you can check it out here.

Well, here it is again, time for me to upchuck all of my photos off my iPhone. Its where all my truly magical pictures are contained. Because, seriously? Who has their camera on hand at perfect-picture-posed opportunities.

Not this mama.

So here are some goodies.

We are furniture shopping for a house that we have no idea anything about yet. You know, because we haven't started looking yet. But we furniture shopped, nonetheless. And my kids were troopers.

Our Easter weekend was great. Ben's brother and sister-in-law and their three kiddos drove up for the weekend and we had a great time. Here is all their loot.

And a sweet customer of my Father-in-laws made this cake for all the grand kids. Such a dear. Sugar them up for someone else to take care of. How sweet.

The only picture we got of all 6 of them!

Stone's new favorite past time. Turning on and off the light switches.

Melt.My.Heart.

Ben had a birthday. Got a new car. And got a new dog. Here they all are. (and I hate to admit, I love the dog! As a matter of fact, he is sleeping at my feet as we speak, or rather, as I type.)

Ellie Kate and her best friends. She is going to miss them.

I was having a really rough day last week, so instead of taking it out in a more constructive way like taking a walk or writing in my journal, I decided to take one bite out of every piece of chocolate in the box. It was perfect therapy. For my soul, not my thighs.

Ben and the kids took me out for Mother's Day yesterday. We ate at this little place that has a marina on the back. It was a glorious day. Best Mother's Day yet.

So there ya have it. Got any good pics on YOUR iPhone? Do share....

Some details.

2011-05-04T15:59:00.003-05:00

So if you missed the big announcement. Or if you couldn't download the video. Or if maybe you just haven't been on the computer in a few days (GASP!), let me catch you up.

WE ARE MOVING TO DENVER!!

Phew, I am now relieved that every single person on the planet knows. Or at least the pretty ones.

Thank you all for the support and encouragement. I knew I could count on all of YOU to give us our proper Hallelujah, Praise God, these-people-finally-made-it celebration.

So now for some more proper details, along with a few prayer requests.

THE DETAILS:
1. Ben leaves in 2 weeks to head up there and kick-off the summer student ministry, as well as look for a house.
2. Ben will be taking the position as full-time student pastor at a SB contemporary church.
3. The kids and I will stay here with our supportive family until we get the a-ok from daddy that we have a roof to sleep under :-)
4. It is our desire to all be up there by July 1st. Fingers crossed.
5. In the meantime, we are packing like crazy, trying to only live on necessities so we can be ready in an instant.
6. We are going on a little vacation in July, and we are considering it our final hoo-rah as a pre-Colorado-resident family. (plus, wed already planned and payed for it, so whoops!)

PRAYER REQUESTS:
1. That Ben finds a great rental house without me. EEEEKK!
2. That God brings us the right house in the RIGHT budget. Double EEEEEKK!
3. That I don't lose my mind w/ 3 kids for a month by myself. I'll save you the triple EEEEEKK!!
4. That God would show up financially for us because there are bumps that only HE can answer.
5. That God keeps all 5 of our hearts, minds, and bodies safe as we spend over a month apart from each other.
6. That God would give great favor to Ben as he tries to incorporate himself into this new ministry.
7. That God would give Ben a place to stay while he is there by himself. (He will be staying with a church member, its just still up in the air as to who that will be. You know, we are still accepting applications. hehe)
8. That God might provide something for me to do to earn a little income, with my kids in-tow, or maybe something I could do from home??.
9. That we would find a place that takes dogs. We have found alternative arrangements in case, but we hope there is no "in case."

PRAISES:
1. Uhh, that we got the job. DUH!
2. And that it is everything our hearts have prayed, hoped, and dreamed for.
3. Ben got a new car! Well, new to him. His car bit the dust about a month ago, and we have since been on the hunt for a fabulous car on a not-so-fabulous budget. And God granted. He bought one yesterday from a sweet local pastor in our town. Yipee!
4. The girls took the news really well. EK has a few reservations about leaving her "Addison, Kaityn Mae, Mimi, & Addie" but once we told her they might all come and visit (hope you are reading this Keli, Jennifer, Mimi, and Kristy!), she felt much better about the situation.
5. Ben gave his two-weeks on Monday, and his non-believer boss was thrilled that he was getting back into "the business he was meant to do." Wow.
6. The thunder won their playoff game last night. Don't Judge.

Well, that's it. For now. Thanks again for being excited right along with us. We consider you all family. A weird family - but family.

XOXO.

THE BIG NEWS!

2011-05-02T13:11:00.004-05:00

Well, its finally time.

I have been given all the OK's to finally let you all in on our ginormo secret!

Well, maybe it isn't really ginormo to all of you, but its been no easy task to walk around with this life-changing information about our little family and not tell ALL OF YOU! You all have so faithfully prayed, encouraged, and interceded on our behalf, and part of me feels like you all walked this road with us! You were there when we moved. You were there at the low points. You were there at the high points. And you were there everywhere between. Seriously, you guys rocks.

And now, I finally have news to share! I've wanted to shout from the rooftops, call up all my girlfriends, and share it with complete strangers walking down the street.

At this time, you may want to pause and make a mental note to never tell me a secret. Clearly I have issues.

But silence is no longer in the way! We are finally ready to share the place God has so perfectly been preparing for us. I never would have imagined that it would take us so long to find, but after getting to know the pastor and his family, chatting with the youth and their parents, and meeting the church congregation, we've decided it was well worth the wait.

Now, are all of you ready yet?

Keep with my style, I can't just spell it out for you. Good grief, I kept this secret for almost a month. I deserve to keep you in suspense for at least a few more minutes.

So here is a little bit about out future home. See if you can guess along the way...

The skyline. Isn't she a beaut? Quite a distance away from our humble abode.

These are EVERYWHERE. Maybe because they originated in this very city? Good thing it happens to be our favorite eatery.

We had the fine privilege of walking around the coolest outdoor mall in the history of outdoor malls. I mean it has a Nike store AND H&M? What more could my little family ask for?

Ben is already requesting Beau Jo's pizza for his birthday dinner.

Driving down the highway, snapped this picture. No big deal.

Still not sure? Well, my darling girls will make it all to clear.

WOOOHOOO! This family is on the move!

Tidbits

2011-04-27T08:46:00.007-05:00

I am so ready for the sun to come back.

Peyton got a pink & purple lady bug pillow pet for Easter - & she named her Micky Mouse.

I have never taken a negative pregnancy test.

I still love Nsync.

I am counting down the day until I get share some GREAT news with all of you!

My kids want to live outside. Literally.

I talk to my mom everyday.

I do not like my ankles to be touched.

I have no idea what to get Ben for his birthday.

Selling things on Craigslist is like getting free money.

I finally watched Tangled yesterday, and I loved it.

Our family is currently OBSESSED with the OKC Thunder.

I could live on chips and Wholly Salsa.

Peyton cries everyday when Ben leaves for work.

My favorite place to shop is Francesca's.

I ordered my canvas from CanvasPeople this week and I am so stinkin' excited.

I have tried all week to convince Ben to watch the royal wedding with me at 4am.

Royal Wedding - 4am - Party of one.

I would rather by clothes for my kids than myself.

I have 3 really awesome, Godly supportive friends. And I couldn't do it without them.

6 1/2 weeks until vacation. YIPPEE!!

I broke my ankle on a trampoline in the 4th grade.

I love to bake for other people. Well, and myself too.

I do these crazy lists when I have nothing else to blog about.

Aren't my children the cutest?

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T15:20:00.003-05:00

Oh the blood of Jesus washes me.
Oh the blood of Jesus shed for me.
What a sacrifice that saved my life
Yes, the blood, it is my victory.

Praise the Lord, the blood wasn't the end of the story! Happy Easter Everyone!

*insert darling picture of my children in perfectly placed Easter outfits with award-winning smiles - of which I forgot to take. Oy.

7

2011-04-21T13:35:00.007-05:00

Today, I dared to go where few have gone before.

I rolled up my sleeves and got my hands dirty.

I made a pact to pull up my boot straps and become a man.

Except I'm not a man, and I have no idea what a bootstrap is. But that's beside the point.

Ahem. The point is, today, I hosted 7 children ages 4 and under at my house. By myself. And frankly, I'm pretty proud of myself.

First, I'm proud I tried. And second, I'm proud I survived.

I would now like to introduce all 7 of them to you because they all played a vital role in my motherhood maturing, and I want to prove to myself someday that there were indeed 7 children (4 & under) in my house at the same time, and I lived to blog about it. With pictures nonetheless!

#1 - Keith - wins the award for best snack distributor and activity picker-outer.

#2 & #3 - Conley & Ellie Kate - both awarded for their heroic efforts in attempting to keep the younger ones in line.

#4 - Claire - easily wins as the most daring and the most likely one to give me a hear attack. (ie. turned my back for ten seconds and she managed to stick her whole leg into the fish pond. Oy.)

#5 & #6 - Peyton & Stone - most easily forgotten for their exceptional independence and laidbackness - until they needed a snack, and then - WATCH OUT!

And last, but certainly not least, #7 - Canaan - champion eater, slobber-er, and paci-sucker.

So, there are the troops. And never once did they fight, argue, push, hit, or decide to turn on me.

No, really, I'm serious. They were great!

So, what do you do with 7 kids (4 & under) at a play date for two and a half hours by yourself?

You read books....

Eat plenty of snacks....

Feed the rabbit....

And an assortment of other things, of which I can't recall at this very moment.

Hey, give me a break. I survived!

On a more serious note, I did this as a part of a mom's morning out. I host the kiddos one day, while mom goes out and gets some much needed TLC, and likewise, she keeps mine while I go out another morning. I'm not sure why it took me so long to figure this out, but it sure has made a world of difference. Every mom needs a little time to herself - to grocery shop, go to the post office, or just pull over and take a nap. We moms gotta stick together, and I am so glad I have friends who come along side me and help during this sweet time in life.

Now excuse me while I got eat a pint of Ben & Jerry's Creme Brulee ice cream.

Way back When-sday

2011-04-20T09:07:00.002-05:00

In honor of both "way back When-sday" and Easter weekend, I thought I'd give you a little glimpse into our Easter weekend just two years ago.

Sometimes I wish I could go back, just for a moment, and squeeze those little cheeks!

My Big girls

2011-04-18T10:28:00.002-05:00

My girls are getting bigger, and this is how I know....

They drink from big girl cups.

They have friends (ie. Sunday school) to whom I have never met.

They strap themselves into their own car seats.

They eat cereal with milk. And don't spill.

They stay in bed when we put them to bed.

They get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.

The only evidence of said bathroom trip, is the stool in front of the potty that Ben trips over every morning.

They've mastered "the lip."

They put on their own shoes.

They pedal a bike.

They get invited to more birthday parties than I do.

They remember last year's vacation and talk about "da beach" often.

I let them play for hours in the backyard - by themselves.

They play with bubbles, without spilling the entire bubble container.

They wipe my kisses off, because they know it drives me crazy.

They carry their own purse.

They say embarrassing things to strangers like "Are you pregnant" and "Whats wrong with your hair?"

They actually WALK in the grocery store as opposed to riding in the cart.

They reprimand me for saying words like "Gosh" or "Stupid."

When they get hurt, they cry for "Poppy" because they know it pulls on my heart strings.

They are asking for a pet of their very own. (not gunna happen)

They can easily grasp a cup with one single hand.

They are best buddies and I usually don't even have to convince them of that. *usually

Boy do I love them.

You're so vain.

2011-04-14T15:54:00.012-05:00

Maybe a better title for this post would be "I'm so vain."

But I'm really not.

Yes, every single picture in this post is of me, but its not because I enjoy it. To be quite honest, its a little distrubing to my psyche. But if I chose not to post pictures with this post, then it might lose all its meaning and practicality.

Not that it contains an ounce of true meaning or practicality. But thats neither here nor there.

Remember, like in the early 90's, when it was all about Alicia Silverstone. I mean seriously, what ever happened to that girl? Its like she was here and then she wasnt. I blame that lame Brendan Fraser movie, "Blast from the Past." I mean, it was really bad. I completely blame the entire demise of Alicia's acting career to that one movie. At least that what helps me sleep at night.

Huh? Nevermind.

Anyway, back in her peek years, she was the source of idolization by every preteen girl with her charismatic role in the classic hit, "Clueless." I mean that movie was awesome, if for no other reason than the closet scene.

C'mon you all remember. She had the revolving closet that was remote controlled and contained the hippest, coolest, most amazing clothes on the planet. Yep, it was pretty awesome.

During one particular scene, Cher is getting ready for a date and she can't quite figure out the outfit of choice. At this point, she goes on a rant about how she "never relies on mirrors, and only takes polaroids."

Genius.

Well, since its not 1995 anymore, and no one actually even owns a polaroid camera, I have since upgraded. Now, I take a picture of myself with my iphone.

Its simple really. I take the picture, and then send it to myself, so I get a complete unbiased opinion of myself.

I have no idea why I always have one leg out, and one arm on my hip. Like I said, this post is self-reflective. I'm learning quite a bit about myself - and all my little quirks.

And I always chop my head off in the picture, so I can give an honest, unbiased opinon of my wardrobe choices.

Am I the only one that has ever done this?

Surely not.

Everyone takes pictures of themselves before leaving the house, right?

Anyone?

Hello?

P.S. Children, don't laugh at mom. I swear, these clothes were cool in 2011. Dont judge. You should have seen what your daddy was wearing.

An update

2011-04-11T13:43:00.004-05:00

Hey guys, whats up?

Whats up with me? Oh nuthin much. Just the same ol' thing. You know, taking care of the kiddos, fixin meals, yadda, yadda, yadda.

My weekend? It was good. Thanks for asking.

Oh, you wanna know more? Anything specific?

Oh, yeah, I forgot I told you guys about us flying out of town. I must have forgotten about the 3,000 blog hits I got in 24 hours. Or the 20 new followers on twitter. Or the 10,000 emails and text messages.

Seriously, guys, thanks for praying and thanks for supporting. Ben and I could feel the prayers and the encouragement from the moment we stepped foot into the airport. It is amazing when God's people join together and fervently pray over the anointing of a task. We feel so honored and loved to be connected with all of you.

The weekend was more than we could have ever hoped for. The pastor and his wife were some of the most amazing people we have ever met. They share our passion for families, our desire to do things differently, and our heart for a city in need. Oh, and they share our admiration for good food. God bless 'em.

We had the chance to meet the youth, the elders of the church, and some amazing parents. They asked some tough questions. Everything from Coke or Pepsi to how does your family fit into this ministry. Ben answered all of them in such a way that brought honor to his Heavenly Father and great honor to his wife. I am so very blessed to be married to an amazing man, and this weekend only re-confirmed that for me.

So when do the moving vans come? I wish it were that simple. There are some things we are continuing to pray through, some things they are continuing to pray through, and for now we just wait. We wait for God to open some doors and wait for his perfect timing and place for our family. He never lets us down.

Thanks for supporting our desire to keep the details a little under wraps. I promise we won't keep you in the dark forever.

It was amazing to come home to these smiling faces though....

Although, I had imagined three smiling toddlers running full force into my arms, demanding me to never let them go, and begging me to never leave them again. But it turns out, Uncle Neal and Aunt Jennifer, Mimi and Papa, and Aunt Kristy are pretty good parental surrogates. Boy, do I feel under-appreciated.

It is nice to be back into our normal routine again. Please continue to pray for us this week as we continue to seek God's face and continue to make these all-important decisions for our family. I appreciate each and every one of you. *at this moment, I'd like each of you to grab hold of your monitors, wrap your arms tightly around, squeeze for three seconds, and consider yourself hugged.* There, now I feel better.

Out of the rubble

2011-04-06T22:24:00.010-05:00

This blog of mine - its a complex thing. You see, I started this blog, back in 2007, hoping to give my out-of-town relatives a place to ooh and ahh over the adorable faces of my sweet new babies.

As times moved on, it became a place for me to capture more than just their smiling faces, but the stories that surrounded the love and the laughter. I got addicted to recording their development, imagining their giggles one day when they read back about the time their daddy gave them a Schwann's man push-up pop.

But then it reached yet another level. Well, really I reached another level. God began placing on the hearts of my little family, the desire for something more, something new, something unknown. Something scary. And I recorded it all. Mostly because I didn't know what else to do. I was afraid to blog about it, fearful that I would sound ungrateful, unwilling, or even disgruntled with my God. But I was also afraid not to blog about it. This seemingly innocent portal into my little family became my lifeline. My journal. My therapy in a really bumpy time in my life.

The encouraging letters Ben and I have received, the anonymous gifts, and the words of encouragement have been a gift to me. About 10 months ago, during a rough patch in this journey where I felt God was simply not answering or speaking to me, a mentor of mine encouraged me to give God specific reasons I was asking Him to answer my prayers. "What, you mean like, convince God?

"Exactly. Tell him why you need this from Him. Why you want this prayer answered."

So I did. And one of the reasons that topped my list was simple. I wanted God to answer my prayer, restoring us into full-time ministry, so that I could be a testimony to all of you. To you - my best friend from high school. To you - the girl who sits next to me at MOPS. To you - the hundreds of you who read this blog that I have never met. I wanted to be a testimony to you. A testimony of God's faithfulness and his steadfast love. Living proof, that when you stay firm in your faith and when you seek the Lord, He will always restore, always comfort, and always lead you to a better place.

Well, my friends, I hope I have been that testimony of faithfulness to all you of. Ben and I are leaving on an early flight tomorrow to venture into an opportunity that could change our lives forever. They haven't officially offered. We haven't officially accepted. But the peace in my heart is indescribable. It is unlike any other. And it is well worth the wait.

While we aren't ready divulge all the juicy details - you know, the ones like where, when, how, and who, I wanted to give you all some hope and encouragement as you have followed and prayed so faithfully for my sweet family. I hope you will continue to pray as we journey onward, settling for nothing less than God's best.

In the New York Times best-selling novel Eat Pray Love, Elizabeth Gilbert writes these amazing words, "Ruin is a gift. For ruin is the road to transformation." 18 months ago, my life felt ruined. 5 months ago, my life felt ruined again. And just 2 months ago, the rock fell, and I felt yet another day of ruin. But through it all, God has made me believe stronger, love harder, and dream further. These past months might have been filled with some ruin, but I am so thankful for them. So thankful for who I am today. And so thankful for a God who counted me worthy of the ruin and worthy of the transformation.

I'll be updating through the trip via twitter (@ekandpeyton) and on the blog. Follow along, and of course, I'll divulge those "juicy" details as the Lord (and my husband!) allows.

How to:

2011-03-21T15:51:00.002-05:00

How to: Survive a 7 hour road trip with three small children. Alone.

1. Stock up on lots and lots of caffeinated drinks, because you are carrying precious cargo.

2. Fill up on gas before you leave, and realize you just spent on a tank of gas what your grandmother spent to purchase her first house.

3. Take a "catch-all" bag filled with books, drawing boards, and infinite amounts of child-approved snacks.

4. Pay $16 in toll, and contemplate for the next 30 minutes about what other amazing things you could have purchased with the exact same $16. Like a pair of shoes from TJ Maxx or a really expensive tube of chapstick.

5. Prepare yourself to answer one million phone calls from your husband, in-laws, and parents making sure everything is "going OK."

6. Look at all the unopened caffeinated drinks you purchased, and wonder, "What was I thinking? Caffeine? Who is nodding off in this "Veggie Tales blasting-little girl squealing-little boy demanding" mini-van? No.One.

7. Map out a Chick-fil-a at the halfway mark and throw yourself a celebration for making it halfway while giving yourself a pep talk in preparation for the remaining leg of the trip.

8. Listen to the Justin Bieber Pandora channel and love every minute of it.

9. Then tweet about it your new found love for the Biebs.

10. Then regret tweeting about when you are slayed by all the "musical geniuses" in twitterverse.

11. Take a potty in the car, to avoid as many exiting stops as possible.

12. Load up on the DVDs - and bring your headphones or you WILL be able to quote every word from Robin Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Aristocats.

13. Don't bring the dog.

14. Run your fingers through your hair, and then think about how you want to grow your hair out. Then think about the Kardashian sisters and wonder how on earth they all got blessed with that awesome hair? And those eyelasshes. Are they fake or is it a really good tube of mascara? I wonder what their budget is for make-up. Wouldn't it be cool to rummage through their make-up drawer? Did I just pass into Oklahoma?

15. Set-aside $50 from the Spring Break fund and go buy yourself something oober soft or extra fattening the day you return.

Happy 4th Birthday, Ellie Kate

2011-02-28T15:11:00.009-06:00

Four years and five months ago, I sat at my oak dining room table, reading a letter I had just received from your well-versed-in-mothering Aunt Kristy. She had written me a letter, congratulating us on the soon to be arrival of you, and also offering some advice for your daddy and I. She gave us 5 helpful tips, including things like taking time to enjoy life without kids, and buying long sleeved Old Navy maternity shirts. But one particular tip has stuck with me, and it was one of the main reasons for starting this blog.

Helpful tip #3 was to take hundreds, thousands, or even millions of pictures and try my hardest to capture each moment as best as I could, because it wouldn't be long until that itty bitty baby growing inside me would be 4 years old and I would be sitting somewhere thinking, "where did the time go?"

I naively thought to myself, "4 year old? That is so far away. That won't be me for a long time."

Well, here I sit, Ellie Kate, on your 4th birthday, staring out the window, trying to remember the past 4 years and indeed wondering, "where has the time gone?"

Your blonde Goldilocks hair is the envy of any hairdresser, and in your mind it furthers the "princess" look. You have bright blue beaming eyes, that come straight from your daddy, and melt my heart when they are filled with tears. You have an infectious smile that captures everyone's attention as you come into the room. You are just so beautiful.

But what is even more beautiful than your hair, eyes, and smile is what is on the inside, little girl. Your love for your brother and sister is astounding as you sacrifice anything and everything to make them smile. You love to give hugs and kisses and you are so interested in the needs of others. You long to fix anyone's broken hearted or bandaged knee and will stop at nothing to put others first.

Your enthusiasm for Jesus is inspiring and humbling. You love to pray to Jesus and thank him for your family, your pillow, and your toys outside. Every night you ask God to help grandad feel better, to give food to kids who don't have any, and for no one to get in trouble. (I know that "no one" means you and Peyton. And I often say "Amen" to that prayer!)

Although you haven't asked Jesus to be your Savior yet, I know its coming soon. And oh, how your mommy's heart yeans to hear those words of understanding and readiness from you. You are going to do great things for Jesus some day, baby girl. Things that use your courage, tenacity, and tender heart.

I tried to convince you to stay 3 for just a little bit longer. I begged you to pack up the birthday presents and save them for next year, hoping that we could just skip this day altogether. And I even tried to put bricks on your head to keep you from growing anymore! But the truth is, Ellie Kate, your mommy can't wait to watch your grow. I can't wait to see you mature and become the woman God made you to be - the woman I see behind those bright blue eyes and the woman inside that enormous heart. I can't wait to become your best friend and cheer you on as you grow into your potential and into the role God prepared for you - even before time began.

I can't wait, honey. But until that day comes, I'll continue to enjoy watching your grow. I'll continue to enjoy all those hugs and kisses. And I'll continue to enjoy being your mommy.

Happy Birthday, sweetie. And thank you for giving me the greatest gift I have ever received, the gift that my heart so desired, and the gift that keeps on giving - the chance to be somebody's mommy.

My Week - In Review

2011-02-21T15:10:00.004-06:00

Monday -

Monday was Valentine's day. Not a super big holiday in our little household. But we try and do a few fun things for the kids to enjoy. Like breakfast!

Tuesday -

Tuesday is "school" day for us. My kiddos and I head to a learning center (run by my fabulous brother), and we spend 4-5 hours learning our letters, numbers, and shapes. When the day is over and all the students have gone home, Uncle Neal takes my kids (and his own red-headed one), and they spend some "quality" time together. This particular day's "quality" time included racing through the halls on the freight cart.

Wednesday -

We visited the zoo with some great friends. They have two little girls, and my girls just adore them. It was also a monumental day in Peyton-history. She touched an animal in the petting zoo. *GASP* and survived.

Thursday -

Ben had been out of town for two days on "business," and he was returning home to us on Thursday night. My kids spent exactly 64 minutes exploring the front yard, waiting, ever so anxiously, for their daddy. And found some sticks along the way.

Friday -

Ellie Kate & Peyton were invited to their sweet friend Kaityn's 4th birthday party. It was a cooking theme and each girl made chef hats, had matching aprons, and decorated cupcakes. Although, I think the highlight out of the party was the serious disaster the girls made in the birthday girls room.

Saturday -

A sweet soul gave Ellie Kate & I tickets to see Disney's Beauty & The Beast at our downtown music/theatre house. It was one of the highlights of her little life, and all she has talked about since.

Sunday -

My best friend and I headed to our town's larger-than-life consignment sale. And I am ashamed to admit that I became "one of those" moms. I followed a helpless girl around, weaving from aisle to aisle, in hopes that she would lay down the one dress peaking from the top of her bag - the one that I desperately wanted. No, no, no. The one dress that I desperately needed! I'm happy to report that she did lay down that dress, I did snatch it up, and I quickly ran for the exit in hopes of saving my sanity.

Our week was full of fun, laughter, and good times. How was yours?

To My Valentine...

2011-02-16T17:13:00.001-06:00

Here are some of my fondest (and not so fondest) moments of Ben and I over the past 8years.

1. The Great Birthplace

When we first met, I was wearing an Ohio State t-shirt. He immediately began questioning me about my familiarity with the Buckeyes, and I think he was pleasantly surprised to find out that I hadn't just picked up the football tee at some thrift store. Nope, I was a true fan. I flashed my flirtatious smile and said, "But don't tell anyone, I was actually born in Michigan." To which he replied, "SO WAS I!" Boom. Instant connection. We laughed, batted our eyes, and blushed as we sat and chatted for a few more minutes.

Go ahead and flash forward three months. I had pretty much decided that this was the man I was going to marry, and we mutually agreed it was time for me to meet the parentals. While enjoying dinner, I felt the need to make small talk, and simply asked, "So when did you guys move to Oklahoma?"

Silence.

"Honey, we have lived here all our lives."

"So, when did you guys live in Michigan?"

Crickets.

Light Bulb.

*Insert intimidating glare, fire shooting from my ears, and a suddenly bashful husband, so busy moving his peas around his plate, that he doesn't even look up.

Yep, he lied. But he swears it was just to impress me. Is that kinda like pulling my pigtails on the playground?

2. Peyton's Birth

When Peyton was born, it was my first "all natural" birth, as well as my first birth without my mommy. I warned Ben that I would need his help tremendously and that I need him to be there for me - mind, body, and soul. He never could have anticipated how true those words would be.

During Peyton's birth, I pulled, yanked, and squeezed Ben's neck so hard that he went to see the chiropractor next door while I was still bathing my 15-minute-old baby.

Sorry, babe. Wait, no I'm not. Labor hurt worse. I win.

3. The Fashionista

When Peyton was 9 months old, I had left her and EK in the capable hands of their daddy while I enjoyed a peaceful morning out. When I returned, I found Peyton, wearing newborn clothes. He had found the clothes in a box I had in her room, and I suppose he assumed that this particular box was where I kept her clothes? I don't know. If you just have to see proof, you can read about it here.

4. Daddy's girl

When Ellie Kate was a bitty baby, she screamed, and screamed, and screamed. There were moments that I felt so overwhelmed, I thought I was going to literally go nuts. One particular day, she had been crying all morning long, so I called out - at work - and told you that I thought something was terribly wrong with her. She wouldn't stop crying.

You were immediately on your way.

I took her outside on the front porch and she probably woke up every sleeping animal within a five mile radius. I heard your truck rumbling down the road, and I knew help was on the way. You jumped out, came over to us, took her in your arms, and began doing the same thing I had been doing for the past three hours.

Except she instantly stopped crying. I honestly remember thinking, "OK, well then I'll just go to work and you can stay home with her."

5. Bachelor Gift

After our formal reception, help at a ritzy downtown hotel, we had made plans to stay the night there, and get up and head to the airport in the morning. We had packed a small overnight bag to use that night, and we made the horrific mistake of leaving that bag in the hands of your bachelor groomsmen.

While no one was looking, they put some "lovely parting gifts" into our bag, one of which included a word search puzzle book with the words "Just in case you guys get bored." Classy.

Now that story is fun in and of itself, but the true story is the fact that we actually played most of those games that night, on the plane the next day, and on the sandy beaches of Siesta Key during our honeymoon. I love that we can be so dorky.

6. Red Sox

Valentines has never been a hearts, roses, and flowers kind of a day for us. No, it gets overlooked by the fact that it is the beginning of spring training. The Red Sox are officially reunited in Ft. Myers and my life is officially over for the next 6 months.

7. The earring misunderstanding

We have been dating for just a few short months, when one day you surprised me at my college dorm room. You asked me to come outside, and I could just tell by the look in your eyes that something was different.

We headed to the parking lot, where we stood by your bright orange dodge truck. You asked me to go sit on the bed of your truck. At which point, my sassy self said, "No, I don't wanna."

"Please, Meredith, just go sit back there for a second."

"No, we are just fine right here and I don't want to get dirt on my pants."

"Meredith, for the love, would you please just go sit back there for a second."

"You might as well just stop asking."

Wow, I was a charmer, huh? It was at this time that Ben through a bag at me with a teeny tiny box in it. Whoops. Now, we had only been dating a few months, so I knew it wasn't THE teeny tiny box, but I did know that only expensive things come in teeny tiny boxes. And it was something expensive. It was my first pair of diamond earrings. I am surprised he wasn't digging in his pocket for the receipt and looking for the first opportunity to bale. Nope, for some reason, he stuck around.

8. The Engagement

While visiting my relatives in Ohio, Ben had pre-decided to pop the question. When the fateful day came, He asked if I wanted to go down to Ohio State stadium, because he wanted to look around.

"No. I don't want to go there. You hate Ohio State, why do you want to leave my family all the time? That is so rude. No we are staying here."

"Please, babe, I'd really like to go see the legendary stadium."

"You might as well just stop asking."

Do you see a trend here? It is a pure wonder why he even married me, but it is no wonder that my girls are just.as.sassy.

He did propose on the 50 yard line of Ohio State stadium, but I didn't mumble and grumble under my breath the entire time. Something for which he has never let me live down. Him, or the other 20 relatives that were standing there "watching."

9. Argentina or bust

After about 6 months of dating, we were in that "I never want to be away from you" stage. It was also at this point that I took a week-long mission trip to Argentina. I tried my very hardest to contact Ben every day, but sometimes, I just didn't have the means.

But that didn't stop you.

Somehow, you managed to track me down, remote hotel and all, and talk with me for 5 minutes. That's when I knew I had you.

10. "Big Brother"

You were the youngest of two boys, and it was God-ordained that you didn't have younger siblings. Because you would have tortured them. Just like you torture my younger brothers and sisters.

For example:

You drive with your blinker on for miles, just to annoy them.

You high jack their towels while they are showering.

You yell embarrassing things to them while on the beach, and in front of all the "hot babes."

You blast your Bass-thumpin music with the windows down, as soon as they see someone they recognize.

You constantly drill them about stuff they've written on facebook.

You like to say you demolish them on the Xbox, just to get a rise out of 'em.

And oh so much more. (Feel free to add to this list, boys!)

Snowed in foreva

2011-02-10T13:08:00.015-06:00

How do you know if you have been snowed in foreva? You find yourself identifying with the following 15 steps.

1. You Dehydrate pineapple, just so you will have a healthy choice available while your children are eating snow ice cream for the 12th time.

2. You Let your children nap, and nap, and nap some more.

3. You learn to keep a close eye on "napping children."

Case in point. I put the girls down for their afternoon nap, and two hours later, I get a phone call (on the house phone) from my sweet husband, informing me that the girls had just called him.

"huh? What are you talking about? The girls are...."

I walk in, only to discover my sweet girls, both on the top bunk, having a grand ol' time with my cell phone. After a brief scolding and a stern word of warning, I put them back to bed, reclaimed my phone, stepped out of their room, and laughed for a good three minutes. I then examined my phone for damage. Luckily, they had only called their daddy, but they did take 148 pictures. Here is a brief sampling...

4. You plan a double date night with some dear friends, hire a babysitter, and put make-up on for the first time in days. Then proceed to watch your husband run out of gas on the side of the road, which will then trigger a ten minute cry-session in which the words, "All I wanted was ONE normal night" come flying over your lips. Oh, and don't forget to take a picture - you'll want to remember that moment someday.

5. You build a monstrous fort for your children, just so they can have a "change of scenery."

6. You let your 4 year old paint her own toe nails.

7. And spend the good part of a morning scrubbing finger-nail polish off of your 4 year old's skin, while continually repeating "What was I thinking?"

8. You take a picture of your dog, and know that he, also, has gained at least 5 pounds during this snowcation. Hey, it happens to the best of us. (I should know)

9. You proceed to play hide and seek with your children so many times that they actually get extraordinarily good at it.

10. You start conducting make-shift crafts out of construction paper, a doily, crafter's glue, and last year's valentine candy,

11. You make these "meringue" cookies, that look and feel like Christmas ornaments, and savor every bite because it is the only sweet recipe in which I had all the ingredients for.

12. You play a game called, "On what step can my children jump off of and still be caught in the loving arms of their mommy." They each respectively reached the following steps....

13. Your husband has a competition with the neighbor on how fast each can shovel their drive.

Ben would like all of you to know that he won.

I've never been more proud.

14. You sit down and paint with your children, and remember how important it is to enjoy these moments.

15. And make memories that will last a lifetime.

Wherever you are, snowed in or not, I hope you are enjoying time with your family, staying warm, and finding sanity in the knowledge of my 15 steps of being snowed in. Oh, and sunshine, please hurry, before I am forced to eat last years Valentine candy.

My 5 Prayers

2011-02-04T17:50:00.003-06:00

Every night, when I lay my wee ones down to bed, I take the time to individually wrap my arms around each, hold them a little bit tighter, listen to the stillness of their breathing, and whisper a sweet prayer over their being.

Its such a special time, and one that I know I will wish I had more slowly cherished. SO I try to remember that during the hustle and bustle of life, during the pre-dinner time meltdowns, and during the days and day and days that I am stuck in my house due to snow.

About a year ago, I began asking God to make my prayers more purposeful, asking Him to give me divine direction over how I could directly pray for each of my children. And God delivered. In a big way. I now pray sweet prayers over my children every night, as I hug them closely, and try and recite the Scripture promises that God gave me with each prayer.

So here they are, in no particular order, but all very important to my mothering heart.

1. I Pray the Lord would begin preparing the hearts of my children to accept salvation at a very early age.
I pray that my children will never say no to the God that loves them even more than their mommy does. When they feel that quiet, yet all-important tug at their heart that they would whole-heartedly and willingly be ready and able to accept, believe, and commit. I pray that they are young enough to bypass a life full of disappointment, hurt, and confusion that is known when navigating without a Savior; yet old enough to remember that moment in the heart forever and never waver on that decision. I also selfishly pray that I am nearby, ready to jump, shout, and celebrate that relationship shift from parent/child to sister/brother in Christ.
Ephesians 3: 17-19
These children are rooted and established in love; we pray that they may have power with all the saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ towards them, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge, that they may be filled to the measure of the fullness of God.
2. I pray for boldness in their faith.
I pray that my children not only walk with the Lord, but do so in a manner worthy of it's calling. I pray that my children are not afraid of the Gospel, and are willing, ready, and able to share with whomever comes down the path. I pray that they are not ashamed, but rather are anxious that no one miss out on a life with Jesus and a life full of promise.

Mark 4:20
The hearts of our children are like good soil, they hear the word, accept it and produce a crop….100 times that which was sown.

3. I pray that God would call them to something great.
I pray that my children will do BIG things for His name. That they would be STRONG and courageous, devoted to a life of furthering the kingdom. As I hold each of my sweet babies, I can only imagine the greatness that God has for them, and I pray, so hard, that they would surrender to that greatness. That they would never fear it, but realize their potential as Christ works through them.

1 Timothy 4:12
No one will look down on our children because they are young, but they set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in faith and in purity.

4. I pray over my children's future spouses.
I earnestly pray that God would begin preparing the hearts of my children, and the hearts of their future mates. I pray that God would protect both of their hearts as they save themselves - mind, body, and soul - for each other. I pray that they would both be rooted in the Lord and when the time comes, that they would both be running the race of the Lord, at the same pace and towards the same prize. I pray that they would be obedient to their parents, practicing submission, and so that they may live a long life with each other.

Ephesians 5:1 and 21
Our children will be imitators of God and live a life of love. They will submit to others out of reverence to Christ.

Ephesians 6:1,2
Our children will obey their parents in the Lord. They will honor their father and mother so that it may go well with them and that they may enjoy long life on earth.

5. I pray during any and every trail, they would turn to You.
I wish I could pray that they would never see the down-hill side of a hill. I wish I could brush them under my wings and protect them from any harm, hurts, or hiccups. But the truth is, I cant. Trials are going to come, trials that MUST come for the maturing and growing of their faith. Trials that will try and overtake them, and try to rip them apart, and trials that will leave them with a broken heart. I pray that they would turn to the only ONE who can mend that broken heart. I pray that they would be so rooted in the Word, that they are prepared for any battle and every arrow the enemy tries to throw. I pray that I would be able to be a good example of such a daunting task. So much of me wants to throw my hands in the air and give up, as Satan works overtime to steal, kill, and destroy. But I know that if I don't show my children what a firm foundation in faith looks like, they may never see themselves as capable of doing so. I pray that they would not make the same mistakes as their mommy, but rather turn to God for ultimate comfort during all times.

Psalm 1:1-3
Our children do not walk in the counsel of the ungodly or stand in the path of sinners or sit in the seat of scoffers. But their delight is in the law of the Lord and on His law they meditate day and night. They are like the trees planted by the rivers of water, which yield their fruit in season and whose leaf will not whither, and whatever they do prospers.

Psalm 91:9-16
Our children have made the Most High their dwelling place. No harm will befall them; no disaster will come near their tents. For He will give His angles charge over them to guard them in all their ways. They will carry them so that our children do not dash their foot against a stone. They will tread upon the lion and the cobra; they will trample them underfoot. Because our children love You,
You will deliver them, You will set them on high. They will call upon You and You will answer them, You will be with them in trouble, You will deliver them and honor them and with long life You will satisfy them and show them Your salvation.

1John 4:4
Greater is He that is in our children the he that is in the world.

As I pray these things over my children, I am constantly reminded of the great task God has entrusted ME with in raising three beautiful, wonderful, sometimes ornery children into a nurturing relationship with Him. I sometimes (OK, maybe often) feel incapable and undeserving of such a task, but for some reason He has given it to me. Therefore, I (and all of us parents) must be faithful in carrying it out with all diligence and purpose. Keep up the good work all your parents out there, and don't forget - Great is OUR reward (Psalm 127:3)!

Snow-a-palooza

2011-02-01T15:24:00.006-06:00

Some called it Snowpocalypse.

Others called it Snowmageddon.

But when you survive 13 inches of snow with three children under the age of three - I call it Snow-a-palooza.

Typical Oklahoma. Just Saturday, the kids and I spent a glorious day at the park and even picnic-ed under a shade tree because the kids were getting a little sunburned.

And this morning, we awoke to 5' snow drifts enclosing us into our humble abode.

We managed though. With homemade muffins, Toy Story 3 and reeeeally long bath times.

Ben spent most of the day shoveling.

Although I have no idea why. I kept telling him, "Honey, there's 14" of snow on the ground, we aren't going anywhere for quite some time." To which he replied, "Well, what else is a guy to do on a snow day?"

Men. I don't get 'em.

We did spend some time playing out there though. It wasn't exactly snowman, snowball, or snow fort kind of snow, but we had fun just frolicking in the whiteness.

Stone took a face plant right into the snow only seconds before this pic. It was at this moment that he decided he's a warm weather kind of fella.

So he mozied his way back into the garage where there were space heaters and toys.

Ben and Ellie Kate attempted some sledding. But they ended up just sinking and watching the rest of us laugh at their attempt.

After our time indoors, we came in and made snow ice cream.

Here's my favorite recipe for all of you snow victims out there.

Snow Ice Cream:

1 gallon of snow

1/3 cup of white sugar

1/3 cup of powdered sugar

7 ounces of evaporated milk

2 tsp vanilla

I usually stick all mine in the blender for easy mixage.

I know most of you give your family hot chocolate after a cold winter's play, but my kids just don't roll with the warm beverage variety, so this was the next best festive thing. And the kids really enjoyed it.

Ahem. As did I.

Man, there is nothing like getting shut in your house to make you want to eat 9,000 calories.

Here's hopin' that I can fit into my jeans tomorrow!

Happy Snow Day!

The Great Christmas Surprise

2011-01-31T16:10:00.005-06:00

As I was flipping through my camera just the other day, I realized that I neglected to share with all of you our BIG Christmas toy surprise!

I have waited for years for this moment. This was the first year that Ben and I had perfectly picked out the top-notch present that we knew our girls would flip for. I dreamt about what their faces might look like. I flashed back to my childhood memories and the amazing surprises that awaited me on Christmas morning. I could barely go to sleep the night before, I was so excited!

Now, being the professional parents that we are, we ordered it much in advance, to accommodate the needs for shipping, and just-in-case-we-hate-it-ness.

It arrived, in the box, and we loved it. It sat in our garage for about month, until one fateful Monday night. Except not just any Monday night - THE Monday night - you know, the last Monday night before Christmas.

And it occurred to me that maybe we ought to put it together - just to make sure it worked. So here is my tool-efficient husband, hard at work...

He got it, oh, I don't know, 95% put together, and I realized - IT WAS THE WRONG ONE!

Sure, it was black, and yes, it was sort-of the same car, but it was the EXACT picture I had seen on line. It was missing the ginormous orange boom box speakers on the back.

I quickly rushed to the computer to find out what had happened. Much to my surprise, Wal-mart (our purchaser of choice because it was $10 cheaper) carried the older version, but Toys'R'Us (those tricky little devils) sold the fancy shamcy hybrid ones.

Enter devastation.

Oh, I told Ben that it was fine. We could just keep the one he had spent the past 3 hours building, but he must have sensed the disappointment in my voice, because the next morning, it was back in the box and in the back of the pick-up.

One crazy mama on a mission, two packed out toy stores, three "We just sold out"'s, and a word with the manager later, we were back to the grind.

Only this time, it was just as I had imagined it.

And my girls were over the moon about it. They followed a string we had attached to the bottom of the Christmas tree, and made their way outside where the beautiful Cadillac Escalade awaited them.

Although I never anticipated that this little guy would be so amused by it. Should'a sprung for the three seater.

Typical man. Can't give over control of the steering wheel. Get use to it girls.

Oh, the hours and miles we have already put on this thing, and we've done it all in 50 degree weather and below.

Oh, and just for the record, yes, I am glad we have our orange boom box speakers - except turns out, you need 2 C batteries for them to work. And those are still on my shopping list.

My Life In Bulletts

2011-01-26T16:16:00.003-06:00

After my last post about chocolate chip cookies, I made these. Oh.My.Word.
I have zero cooking motivation right now (clearly not including chocolate chip cookies). My poor family has gotten the weirdest meals lately.
I have been going to Boot Camp every single morning for the past four weeks, and I am so proud of myself. Did I mention that it is at 6:30 in the morning?
I am consigning at our local, but GIANT consignment sale next month. And I am so flippin nervous about all the steps I have to do to get my clothes there. Maybe I should just donate them, and regret it later, like I do every other year.
While attempting a Chick-fil-A outing with my three darling children the other day, I actually went in, de-winter clothed my children, and sat down - only to realize I had left my car RUNNING!
Three days later, while driving to the library, I had to call my big brother to come and bale me out because I had run out of gas on the side of the highway.
Last night, I went out to get something out of my car, and realized that I had left every single door, including the trunk wide open after our return home from preschool. Don't worry, I later calculated that it had only been that way for a mere SIX HOURS!
I have resolved to never leave my house with my many children. I am clearly not capable.
I wish I could include a job update for you guys in this random list. But we are waiting for (and expecting) God to do a BIG miracle before that can happen. Will you pray for that?
Ben got sick yesterday, and while I was running around taking care of the young-ins by myself, making noodle soup for him, going to the store for Sprite and crackers, and fetching the newspaper and remote for his enjoyment, I kept thinking to myself - when I grow up, I want to be a sick husband.
Ben and I have won (from completely different sources) two free date nights for next week. I think God is telling us something.
I want a fancy camera.
And a vacation.
Oh, and more chocolate chip cookies.

Give me one good random-ocity!

Cookie Connoisseur

2011-01-23T13:07:00.000-06:00

So there is this awful rumor going around about me, and it just isn't true.

I've tried denying it, I've tried proving them wrong, and I've even tried to find the source of this heinous act of blasphemy, but it just doesn't seem to work.

And its starting to get on my nerves.

Except I kinda enjoy the attention too.

I know its confusing, just try and keep up...

Whats the rumor you ask?

It all started in college, when I baked my usual batch of chocolate chip cookies. I served them to my family, they oo-ed and ahh-ed (like any good family should), and I took a few back to the dorm with me. I set them out by the hall microwave (the common grounds of any dorm hall), with this simple note -

"Enjoy! - Love, Meredith (Rm. 104)"

It wasn't five minutes later before I had a knock on my door. I opened, only to find a chocolate breathed skinny freshman girl, begging for the chocolate chip cookie recipe.

"Uhhh, it's just the recipe on the back of the bag."

To which she replied, "Liar!"

And I've been hearing it ever since. Maybe not with as much animosity as that timid freshman, but I hear it a lot. From.....

"I've used the recipe on the back of the bag, and my cookies don't taste nuttin like that."

to....

"C'mon, just give us the secret ingredient."

and even....

"Fine! I'll just ask your husband." (Good luck with that one. He probably doesn't even know where I keep the spatula. Or even the use of a spatula. Or even the word spatula.)

And since that fateful February day, when I was first given the title, "Liar," I have made at least 500 dozen of these delectable morsels.

And I PROMISE I use the recipe on the back of the bag.

I make the dough....

And it makes these cookies....

They are pretty yummy, firm on the outside, but goo-ey in the middle.

I have to hide them far enough from the front of the counter, or this happens....

This particular batch went to hubby's work. I made the mistake of sending a few dozen last Christmas, and I receive subtle "hints" from them every once in a while.
I'm starting to limit my candidacy process, though. Its come down to this...

I will make them upon the request from ANY pregnant woman.
I will always make them for my husband or father-in-law.
And for the rest of you, you can make your check out payable to "Meredith - the prettiest cook in all the land."

One Year Later

2011-01-20T16:47:00.002-06:00

January 20, 2010

January 20, 2011

My, how they have changed. Except for their coats and gloves - those are still the same.

Interview with a Toddler

2011-01-18T20:41:00.005-06:00

What is your name?
"Ellie Kate. I can spell it for you if you want."
except she usually leaves out one "l."

How old are you?
"Ummm, three, mom."
oh good, because I almost forgot.

Who is your best friend?
"Kaityn and Peyton."
to which I told her, 'hey, that rhymes.' To which she gave me a 'mom, stop being such a dork' look.

What is your favorite color?
"If daddy asks, hes my best friend too."
clearly still caught up in the previous question. But hey, what about mommy?

What is your favorite thing to do outside?
"Swing. And that's all."
She may or may not have been saying 'that's all' to the questionnaire. I chose not to believe that.

What is your favorite thing to do inside?
"Play with beautiful dolls. Just like the ones that Morgan has."
I have no idea what she is talking about.

Where are we going to move to?
"A new home."
Was really hoping for some sort of handwriting on the wall here. Thanks for nuthin, kid.

What should our new house look like?
"Pink and purple with a kitty kat and a swimming pool and lots of snow."
Keep dreamin.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
"4."
Awwwww....

What is your favorite food?

"Pancakes and goldfish."

Not surprising.

What do you want for your birthday.

"A pink car. Actually, lets go to the computer and I'll just show you."

And I can thank her daddy for this ridiculous-ness.

What food do you wish mommy would never serve again?

"Those yucky vegetables. Like potatoes."

She really does hate potatoes. Weird.

***********************

Just a little insight into the mind of my almost 4-year old. Did I really just say that I have an 'almost 4-year old? Excuse me while I go cry in the corner.

My heart

2011-01-13T16:40:00.003-06:00

You are good, you are good, when there's nothing good in me.
You are love, you are love, on display for all to see.
You are light, you are light, when the darkness closes in.
You are hope, you are hope, You have covered all my sin.

You are peace, you are peace, when my fear is crippling.
You are true, you are true, even in my wondering.
You are joy, you are joy, You're the reason that I sing.
You are life, you are life, In you death has lost its sting.

Oh, I'm running to your arms I'm running to your arms.
The riches of your love will always be enough.
Nothing compares to your embrace, light of the world forever reign.

You are more, you are more, than my words will ever say.
You are Lord, you are Lord, all creation will proclaim.
You are here, you are here, in your prescence I'm made whole.
You are God, you are God, of all else I'm letting go.

****************************************************************

Today, Lord, I need you to be good. So good that I forget my bad. I need you to be love. I feel unlovable. I need you to be light. So bright that I reflect some of you. And I need you to be hope. Because I feel like giving up.

Today, Lord, I need you to be true. I need you to be peace. I need you to be joy. I need you to be life. I want to sing from the mountaintops, for no other reason then because you have fulfilled those things in my life.

And most importanly, Lord, I need you to be here. I need you to be more, and I need you to be God. I am not sure I can let it go on my own. Help release the things I hold so tightly in my grasp. I want to be more like you.

Today, my Jesus, I run to the comfort of your arms. You love me unconditionally, and I feel safe. Sustain me, grow me, and make me uncomfortable. I want more of you and less of me. I love you, but I want to love you more.

The Best Blogs You Aren't Reading

2011-01-10T13:51:00.011-06:00

If you are anything like me, you are always looking for a good, new, and fresh blog to read. Not just any ol' blog, but one that makes your tummy jump when you see a new post on your blog feed.

You mean, your tummy doesn't jump? Ok, so maybe I am a blog nerd, I suppose there are worse things to be called.

Anyway, as part of my New Year's resolut-ing, I decided to 'trim the fat' and remove the blogs from my reader that didn't really excite me, didn't captivate me with their posts, and blogs that frankly, I skipped over.

I was left with some really great ones. Some from my IRL friends, and others from my bloggy friends. All great, and all must reads.

But I decided I wanted to share some of my favorites with YOU!

But before I do, here is my humble opinion, of the criteria of a good blog:

1. They blog consistently - like at least 4 x a week.

2. They walk a similar road as myself. Sorry, but I just don't want to read about "the hot senior guy that asked out Ashley A." just as much as I don't want to read about, "my 50th high school reunion." Nope, I find blogs most interesting when they are from young moms, like myself, trying to make a way in this journey of life.

3. It is very entertaining. Makes me laugh. Makes my cry. Makes me want to read some more.

And that's it. You got those three things and we are good to go.

Oh, and before I introduce you to my lovely faves, I should also preface by saying that while I enjoy the likes of some of those oober-bloggy moms, I left them off my list because, well, you probably follow them anyway.

And I like to be concise. Well, sometimes.

So here they are, my list of the best blogs that you probably aren't reading, along with a short synopsis of my personal take on these blog-tastic ladies.

Tales of the Trees.

Megan will have you laughing until your side hurts with the ironic events that happen within her life and the sarcastic tone in which she captures it all. I mean, only she could have me in stitches over a nasty-haired subway worker, a greasy shirt, and why she no longer eats cold-cuts. You'll adore her, while thanking her for all the calories burned while giggling for hours.

The Link Home.

Katy is a nearly newlywed, a teacher, and now an expectant mom, trying to make sense of her journey ahead. She highlights decorating, photography, coupon-cutting, and sometimes just the everyday happenings of her life. She seems to love her life and the many blessings within. And I am sure she would appreciate some well-meaning tips from all us veteran moms. (And if she doesn't, then whoops, maybe she should ignore my past 6 comments.)

The Glamorous Life of a Housewife.

Whitney is a breath of fresh air in a world full of confusion and chaos. She is as sweet as honey and can captivate you with her amazing decorating, lavish party-throwing, and enchanting toddler-raising - all on a medical student budget. Her words make you feel like you are looking into a Norman Rockwell painting and she will leave you wanting more. She makes the stay-at-home mom look good.

Go check these out, maybe add them to your blog-feed, and then come back and thank me for bringing these sensations into your life.

Oh, and join in on the fun, and create your own list so that we can all relish in the joy of your favorite blogs.

Happy blogging, friends!

My purse.

2011-01-08T13:12:00.005-06:00

This is my purse.

Nothing special. Just a rainy Monday impulse Target purchase.

What is special is what lies within the purse. Well, maybe not 'special' as much as strange, peculiar, and a little eye-opening.

Are you shocked that ALLLLL that fit in that seemingly small purse?

Yea, I was too.

Well, just try and look past that as I divulge myself to you - mind, body, and purse.

I'll start with the high points.

I have recently started the 6-week challenge boot camp. I absolutely adore everything about it. Except the early morning alarm-clock, the sweat, and the fact that I can't even do one decent sit-up.

I mean, its so bad. But it is getting easier, so I'll take.

The work-out often involves push-ups, and during the first few days, I was having a hard time keeping my hands firmly planted on those slick MMA mats. So Ben suggested I wear these, and I do. And for some reason, I keep them in my purse.

What mom purse isn't complete without these? I am not real sure why they are in there, but they have been for at least a week and a half.

This is the motherload. Next to the Bible, it is the most important book in my life. In it contains my random thoughts, endless grocery-lists and meal plans, occasional doodling by my children, and reminders of important dates and events. It travels everywhere with me. Kinda like a plastic blankey.

This is a great invention. I never leave home without it. It allows me to transport any restaurant napkin into a bib for my children. Saved me many an outfit.

Oh, the hair bows. They end up in here, and I am not sure how they get there. Its kinda like when the dryer eats my socks.

Speaking of socks, I always carry two pair. Just in case we decide to have an emergency Chick-fil-a outing and just in case my children are wearing flip-flops. No child of mine is going barefoot on that filthy plastic. Hey, just be glad I let them go in to that germ-infested pool of filth called the play-place.

Yeah, I am that mom.

The 21st century form of child entertainment. I have countless children's books downloaded and I whip it out in cases of emergency. (Emergency = boring doctor's office waiting room, in line at the bank, amidst the women's section of our local department store)

And now I would like to transition to the low points.

Like a half-eaten Lara bar.

That I promptly threw away, I promise.

And the pacifier holder and a pacifier. Not working in harmony.

I mean, the idea was to keep the pacifiers clean in there. I'll add that to my list of New Year's Resolutions.

And just in case the Ipod dies or gets thrown to the side, I whip these out.

It is amazing the stories that have been told using a baby, a fireman, and a chair. My children have quite the imagination.

And last, but certainly not the least, the crown to my third molar.

Don't worry, it was only a temporary one, and I am keeping it so that my dentist can put it back on tomorrow. Don't be afraid, I promise it is the only bone I have within my purse.

Well, that's it. My purse. I must admit, I was a little nervous, but now that we have reached this new level of transparency I feel much better.

Helpful Hands

2011-01-06T08:36:00.000-06:00

"So, how do you do it with 3 kids under the age of 3?"

I get that question a lot.

Mostly from random strangers in line Chick-fil-a, but occasionally from an expectant mother or a too-tired, no-make-up wearing, just-found-out-she's-expecting-her-third child friend. Its at this point that I take the time to welcome her to the club.

And then we join hands and say a quick prayer for our sanity.

But the truth of the matter is, its not so bad. Yes, we have our days. Yes, I have moments in which I totally lose it. And yes, I have to spend a few more minutes in the bathroom covering up the bags under my eyes. But raising three children under the age of three is a lot of fun, and I am not only surviving - I'm thriving!

Those of you who faithfully read my blog, know that none of our pregnancies were particularly planned, and when I discovered I was pregnant with my second just 8 months after giving birth to EK, and seeing that plus sign again just 7 months after giving birth to P, I kinda figured my life was over. At least life as I knew it.

I never imagined I'd be able to get any housework done. I never dreamed I'd get a hot meal of the table every night. And I even had images of setting off the smoke detectors in my house, just so I would have an excuse to get out of the house and smell some fresh air.

I needed some help. No, not like psychological help, although my ideas of the smoke detector probably doesn't convince you of that. I just needed some tangible help. Like a maid service, or a personal chef, or maybe even a chauffeur. Problem was, there was no way I was going to get any of those things. I had to be creative.

So I looked around my house, and you know what I found? Three small children - desiring their mommy's attention, and eager to please.

So I put them to work. *insert evil laugh here*

I started by buying some great storage containers, labeled the contents of each, and took a picture and plastered them onto the storage containers. Not only would my children be able to put their own toys away, but their rooms suddenly looked decent at all hours of the day.

Ellie Kate and Peyton not only fold towels for me, but they probably fold them better than I do.

And emptying the silverware actually gets fought over in my house. (just make sure you remove all sharp objects first).

It may not be EXACTLY how I would put them away, the job gets done - a job that has to be repeated at once a day in this we-use-the-dishwasher-way-too-much house.

I also love the sorting skills my children get to practice while participating in this exercise.

While I wish I could tell you that I had the opportunity to mop everyday, it just doesn't happen. So in the meantime, my girls get a get wet washcloth and "wipe all those nasty germs."

Since putting those helpful hands to work, I not only get more accomplished during the day, I get to do my housework with sweet giggles and tiny fingers working alongside of me.

So I am all ears, what chores do (did) you veteran moms give your young-ins? I am always looking for a few more chances to eat bon-bons throughout the day...

The Pear Patrol

2011-01-03T14:48:00.007-06:00

First, it was Clementines.

Then, it was Cantaloupe.

And now, its all about the pears.

They love them so much, they won't even share a bite....

At their peak, they ate 12 in one day....

Our over-consumption of pears has made our food budget sky-rocket. Hope this isn't any indication of their food intake during their teenage years!

Potty Training

2011-01-03T14:07:00.003-06:00

Oh, Peyton Layne. I could write an infinite amount about you.

Your spirit, life, and eagerness are - hmmmm, shall we say - God's idea of a good challenge.

And my mom's idea of payback.

I mean, we are talking about the child who can do this..... And this....

all within a five second span.

The day I brought home your very own potty, and exclaimed with much enthusiasm that you were going to "potty in the big girl potty, just like your big sister!"

You gave me one of those ornery looks and simply said, "nah, mom, I don't have the time."

Burst.My.Bubble.

But if she thinks she's one tough cookie, then you haven't met her mama. Because I was determined to get her little tooshy out of those money-grabbing, budget-deflating, don't-grow-on-trees diapers.

So I insisted - to say the least.

And it backfired. Tremendously.

She not only refused to potty like a big girl, she proceeded to cry like a baby every time I put her on it.

People told me not to push it. They repeatedly told me that when she was ready, she'd let me know.

But we are talking about the child who climbed in my lap, turned off the TV, put my head in her hands, looked me square in the eye, and said, "Mommy, let's just sit and talk about life."

Not ready? What are you talking about? She talks like she's 30!

But I finally caved in. Well, more like gave up really, but either way, I put the potty training to rest. Until Christmas Break rolled around, and then I whipped that sucker out again. Of course, looks of panic immediately emerged - from both of our faces - but I knew I had to give it a try.

And I am so glad I did. She went. Got rewarded. And BOOM! she has been pottying ever since.

It was so easy, I seriously wondered if it had been a bit TOO easy. I'm sort of waiting for the inevitable ball to drop and her to revert backwards. But then I knock on wood every time I have that though, so I think we will be ok.

When we made it through the first whole week without a single accident. We celebrated.

Got us some princess panties.

And in my 4 years of parenting, I have learned a valuable lesson. Any success of your child's is a success of your own. And you should accept it, relish in it, and enjoy it. Oh, and don't forget to reward yourself too.

God me a new coat.

Happy potty training to me. Phew, I'm exhausted.

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T02:15:00.000-06:00

My New Year's Resolutions/Goals....

1. Exercise more. Doesn't everybody have to say that?

2. Eat less. Just trying to stick with the status quo.

3. Blog more. Like at least 3 times a week.

4. Run at least three 5K runs.

5. Get up earlier to spend more time in the Word of God.

6. Take more pictures. And be IN more of those pictures.

7. Get ahead financially by paying a few things off

8. Take our family on some forever-in-your-heart trips.

9. Go out with Ben at least once a week. Even if just for coffee. And even if we don't have any $$.

10. Buy one Christmas present every month.

11. Give each child more one-on-one attention.

12. Thank my in-laws A LOT more.

13. Volunteer and do charity work as a family.

14. Scale down on the birthday celebrations.

15. Get a permanent place/job. Unless God sees otherwise.

16. Put Stone in his own room, and in a crib.

17. Pick an education path for Ellie Kate.

18. Keep my car cleaner.

19. Write a children's book.

20. Enhance my green thumb. Or at least make it yellow instead of brown.

Ok, so what are YOUR New Year's Resolutions. Comment with link to your blog, so we can all read your resolutions too!

A Christmas Recap

2010-12-26T22:18:00.008-06:00

Christmas 2010.

Ahhhh, it started out so well....

We all went to our church's Christmas Eve service and had a great time. The kids sat on our laps and enjoyed singing songs, hearing the Christmas story, and holding a candle in honor of Jesus.

It was the beginning of something great. I just knew it....

We came home, had a lovely meal, and got our annual Christmas Eve pajamas.

Even though I don't have him pictured, Stone did indeed get Christmas pajamas. In fact, they are sitting on the coffee table in front of me in the previous picture.

So please don't accuse me of neglecting my third child.

He is only neglected in photo-ops, not in pajama reception. Just so we have that clear.

The kids got all pajama-ed and into bed with visions of what was to come the next morning. I began thinking about their faces and their reactions as they opened the presents that I had so carefully chosen for them over the past few months. All that hard work and preparation was going to be worth it once I saw their sweet smiling faces the next morning.

Too bad all I saw was the inside of a toilet bowl.

You see, it was about the time we got the kiddos in bed that I began to feel a little "uneasy" in my tummy.

"Oh, I just ate too much of that yummy sweet potato casserole," I kept telling myself.

In fact, I told myself that all the way up to the point where I was heaving said casserole into that porcelain bowl that became like a friend to me that night. It was about that time that I surrendered to that fact that I indeed had a stomach bug.

On Christmas Eve.

Oh, the irony.

But I was bound and determined to heave my booty out of bed and onto the couch to at least "observe" Christmas morning.

I even managed to take a few pictures.

The girls had a blast opening everything. I am so blessed by all the people that love my family.

And there is nothing like watching the reaction of a child on Christmas morning. It is priceless.

Some presents were from mommy...

Some presents were from daddy....

Some were from grandma...

And some were from great-grandma...

Some, we were over-the-moon about....

And others, well, maybe not??.....

(I swear, I have no idea what I am going to do with that child!)

Stone finally graced us with his presence at 10:30!

Again, with the irony!

And he opened his presents, but preferred to play king of the mountain, rather than playing with his toys.

It wasn't until about 2:00 that I really started to feel better. We managed to take one decent family shot on Christmas. Of course, I'm a little shiny, but give me a break, I puked for 12 straight hours!

All in all, it was a fabulous Christmas. I love my little family, and I love that God has given me yet another year to enjoy them.

Ben and I spoke often about the possibility of Christmas looking a bit different for us next year. We are so excited about what God has next for us, but we are being careful to relish in these sweet moments surrounded by so many loved ones.

Thank you God, for sending your Son, and thank you for blessing me with a most wonderful Christmas. My heart overflows.

And my stomach no longer gurgles. Praise.The.Lord.

Merrry Christmas

2010-12-25T19:54:00.005-06:00

A view from our Christmas morning....

Have a very Merry Christmas from our family to yours. Remember that He is the reason for the season.

The Great Santa Debate

2010-12-20T17:16:00.011-06:00

Well, hello, jolly fat man. This post is dedicated to you.

After my Christmas Questions post, which included this excerpt:

28. Age you discovered who Santa was? I never really remember believing in Santa. My parents did a really good job of telling us the truth while still allowing us to enjoy the imagination of Santa Claus.

I got several responses and replies, asking me to explain further.

I must admit. I have been somewhat (OK, maybe a lot) procrastinating my further explanation of said topic. Not because I don't want to share, and not because I didn't have anything to share - Lord knows THAT is never my problem - but it required me to take some time to think about how to explain our ideas, and I mean, who has time to do that? I know I certainly don't.

But I will try.

Ellie Kate was 10 months old when we celebrated our first Christmas as a family with children. Even though she was obviously too young to understand anything about Christmas, it was the very first season that Ben and I began to discuss our ideas of Santa Claus and how we wanted to go about it with our children.

We didn't know much. But we knew that we didn't want her to turn out like this little girl...

You know, the one who said, "Whatever I want, my mother will buy me."

That just seemed wrong.

But we also didn't want this...

Lord knows, I couldn't handle syrup in my spaghetti.

We wanted something in the middle. Someone like...

We wanted to have children like Linus. Not necessarily a child addicted to his blanket and sucking his fingers - although communication must have gotten a little twisted during that request, because we did indeed GET a child addicted to her blanket and sucking her fingers.

But that's beside the point.

The important part is that wanted a child who thought like Linus. Children who celebrated the season without forgetting the true REASON for the season.

We wanted our kids to grow up with a love of Christmas, a love of presents, and a joyfulness for stocking, Christmas cookies, and yes, even Santa Claus.

We wanted to take our kids shopping, and have them participate in charity toy drives.

We hoped to have nights filled with visiting Santa, falling down on the ice skating rink, and stringing stale popcorn.

We wanted all those things, but we also wanted more...

We wanted a child that truly understood the meaning of Christmas and appreciated the birth of a little baby boy that would change history, and hopefully his/her own life someday.

We wanted to instill a respect for the sacrifice God gave on that fateful night in Bethlehem.

And we wanted to raise a child who could share this amazing story when others were too busy to notice or to those who had simply forgotten.

Sounds simple enough -right?

WRONG-O!

Its hard work to achieve these things in harmony, especially amidst a culture that idolizes Santa Claus, but completely forgets the baby.

Oh, sure, we may light a candle on Christmas Eve and sing "Silent Night," but that isn't the extent that I so desire for my children.

And more can be done.

Yes, our children our young, and yes we are still mastering our explanations to them about all things Christmas, but we ARE raising three children with an understanding of the true meaning of the holiday.

So how do we do it?

Our solution started two years ago, when I began praying about how to adequately explain Santa Claus without being a kill joy and a Christmas Grinch. And God answered my prayers through a Mark Driscoll podcast, in which he explained his theories of Santa with his own children.

He and his wife decided that they had three options when explaining the truth about this Christmas symbol. They could

1. Reject it - They could tell their children he wasn't real, he is only a myth. They would have no Santa decorations, no Santa cookies, no Santa Christmas paper. Santa would be officially banned. Seems pretty unpractical in a culture inundated with this harmless figure.

2. Receive it - They could tell their children that Santa is real. Santa loads up his sleigh, slides down the chimney, and brings all the presents your little heart desires. Driscoll went on to bring up a good point - if we as parents use this option we run a very dangerous risk. If we insist that an unseen figure that we are to trust, although unseen, is 100% reliable, and then are later told that information was just a myth, we run the risk of our children doubting Jesus Christ. A figure we are also asked to trust and have faith in, although unseen. This was a risk Ben and I were not willing to take.

3. Redeem it - They could tell their children that Santa was a real person, with the name St. Nicholas and he did great things for people in need a long long time ago, just as Jesus did. As the years moved on, people have added their own stories (flying reindeer, Frosty, big red suit) and so the story of Santa is a combination of both truth and imagination. Driscoll goes on to say that he explains to his children that people liked to dress up like Santa Claus, for fun, and we can and should use the imagination God has given us. Gift-giving, carol-singing, and cookie-baking can all be a great way to celebrate the birth of Jesus, something that should be celebrated a remembered.

We obviously have chosen the third option.

And so far, there have been no shrieks of horror or emotional stunting due to our desire to go against the status quo. In fact, all of our intentional truth-telling is reaping great rewards. I hear Ellie Kate tell her sweet friends about the birth of "baby Jesus in a barn, sleeping right next to a cow!" I love watching Peyton pick out presents for "the wittle girl who doesn' have any pwesents under her Smismus Twee." And I love watching their little hands play with a plastic nativity, and act out their ideas of what happened on that fateful night.

And who knows? Maybe one day little Stoney will get on that stage and perform a Linus re-enactment.

Whether my kids get the chance to shout it from the rooftops or not, I want them to know it in their hearts. The story of the first Christmas was the first step in a beautiful story of redemption and love, and I hope their knowledge of it is the first step on Ellie Kate, Peyton, and Stone's personal road to salvation.

Peyton-isms

2010-12-19T13:15:00.008-06:00

The sights and sounds of Peyton Layne. The 2010 version.

"But, I NEED chocolate!"

"Look, Mommy, a smismus tree!"

"Peace out, girl scout."

"I want to give you a hug, a kiss, and a bonk."

"Stoney Gaboney!"

"Pound it." or "Knuckles"

"Ewwie Kate, you busted."

"You forgot to buckle my crotch!" (on the carseat)

I seriously have no idea where she gets ALLLL that personality.

December 17

2010-12-17T14:03:00.000-06:00

Today, I celebrate 5 years of marriage with the most wonderful man on the planet.

He was created by God, just for me.

Our parents faithfully raised us to become the man and woman that would join hands one day and vow to love, honor, cherish, and protect. And I am so thankful that.

In honor of our 5 years of marriage and in honor of our parents dedication to rearing us in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, I thought I would introduce you guys to my dad. The excerpt that follows is from his marriage ministry newsletter, in which he gives readers his perspective of our courtship the day after Ben proposed.

Are you married? If you are, why did you get married? If you are single but making plans or believe that one day you will be married, I want to ask you, why get married? Really now, think about the question. If you are like me, when I proposed to my wife I had reasons like; "we have so much fun together we should always be together", or "we can't stand to be apart", or "we like the same things".

Well, several days ago a remarkable young man named Ben asked my daughter to marry him. He and I had been meeting together for over a year so it was not a surprise when about a month ago he asked for my permission (which I readily gave) to propose marriage to Meredith. What was a surprise to me was that in seeking to protect my daughter I gained a new friend.

Our children have been taught from a very early age that marriage is a life long commitment and that while there may be many very good people, there is only one God chosen match. Look and chose carefully.

At our very first meeting I gave Ben these guidelines for pursuing a relationship with my daughter.

The Ground Rules
Understand my objective: Protect Meredith's heart.

We both must be fully submitted to the Lord

If we cannot reach agreement there will be no pursuit of the relationship/or affections until agreement is again reached.

Our common priorities:
a. Honor God
b. Protect Meredith

i. Short term
ii. Long term

c. Discern God's direction for Ben

Evidence of the commitment to these ground rules
a. Honesty in all things
b. No physical relationship
c. Avoidance of alone times

How will we know when we are done?
a. One (either) can call an end to our meetings which will also mean the relationship with Meredith ceases
b. Each will accept the decision of the other without seeking to proceed outside the bounds of these ground rules.
c. The relationship can progress to marriage

Ben will have to become an Ohio State fan. (just kidding)
Ben and I reviewed these many times and I checked with my daughter for confirmation frequently. While she never saw the list above, she knew my entire purpose was to protect her and help her find God's chosen mate. By the time Ben asked, I was sure.

Mom's and Dad's everywhere (especially Dad's), involve yourselves in the dating life or your children. You can help them make a lifetime decision.

Oh, by the way, Ben still loves Michigan but he did get on his knees near the 50 yard line in the famous Ohio State stadium and pop the question. I guess he at least recognizes the winning percentage on that field.

I am so thankful for a dad that actively and purposely protected my heart and my future and for a mate that was so willing to fight for it. Our exceptional beginning continues to play a vital role in our steadfast marriage.

Happy Anniversary, babe!

Christmas Questions

2010-12-09T15:58:00.003-06:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper. All the way. It is so much more fun watching people rip open the perfectly placed paper and bows! Not to mention they look so much prettier under the tree!

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial. Ben is highly allergic to the real deal. Which makes me sad, because it would be so much easier to just throw a tree away every year and not drag out, re-fluff, take down, and store every year.

3. When do you put up the tree? Around Thanksgiving. Sometimes before, sometimes after. Depending on my mood. And sometimes depending on my with-child-ness

4. When do you take the tree down? Whenever I am geared up to tackle us. Never before New Years.

5. Do you like eggnog? Blech. Enough said.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I got some really great things while growing up, but the first thing that popped into my head is the year my big brother, my two cousins, and I got these giant polar bears. My grandparents hid them in a closet upstairs, and we followed a string around the house until we found them. Good memory.

7. Hardest person to buy for? My Father-in-law

8. Easiest person to buy for? My kids.

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Surprisingly, no. I want one of those fisher price ones though. And my mom collects them, so I am sure I will inherit quite a few someday!

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Post Office, because it shows you took the time. (although, we do New-Years cards, partially because I am overworked in December, and partially just because. Don't question it.)

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? A Christmas sweater with the word "blessed" vertically spelled out of Christmas ornaments. And I still have it. Any takers?

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? National Lampoons Christmas Vacation & Home Alone

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I kinda shop all year. I always have my eyes peeled.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Probably.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Peppermint Bark

16. Lights on the tree (colored or clear)? Clear. But my mom put red and white this year, and I really liked it!

17. Favorite Christmas song? Carol of the Bells

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? We switch every year between Ben's parents and my parents. And we do the same at Thanksgiving. I think once we have our own place, that might come to an end.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? I doubt it.

20. Angel, star or ribbon on top of tree? Ribbon, at least it is this year.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning. Jammies on Christmas Eve!

22. Favorite children's Christmas song? Frosty.

23. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Everyone wishing "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas"

24. Favorite ornament theme or color? Every year my MIL buys all of us an ornament that describes our life the past year. Those are usually my favorite.

25. Turkey or ham on Christmas day? Turkey.

26. What do you want for Christmas this year? Uggs. But unless we strike oil, it ain't gonna happen.

27. Does anyone in your family dress up as Santa? No

28. Age you discovered who Santa was? I never really remember believing in Santa. My parents did a really good job of telling us the truth while still allowing us to enjoy the imagination of Santa Clause.

29. Eggnog, hot chocolate, or apple cider? White hot chocolate

30. Traditional colors (red and green) or other colors? I usually decorate with the traditional colors, but I love the winter blues.

31. Do you have any Christmas decorations on your roof? Nope.

32. What is your favorite holiday treat? Cracker Toffee

33. How does Santa get into your house? Chimney or magic key? Chimney

34. Do you prefer gifts or gift cards? I like gifts, although I understand the practicality of gift cards. I just like to be surprised on Christmas morning with something tangible.

35. Favorite children's Christmas Cartoon? The Grinch

OK, now its your turn!

Public Service Announcement

2010-12-08T10:41:00.006-06:00

Are you are an overworked mom, bogged down by the everyday happenings of a busy household?

Do you sometimes think about listing laundry, dishes, and bill paying as your most frequented past times?

Do you ever feel like you JUST NEED A BREAK?

Ever decide to take that break by taking the time to sleep in just one measly hour longer than usual, and leave your darling children in the loving hands of your capable husband?

Well, tread lightly. Because by doing so, you are running a very high risk of over doughnut consumption.

Yep, the same husband that put newborn clothes on my 11 month old, and the same husband that gave my strictly breastfed baby a Schwans man push-up pop, gives my organically-nourished children their very own package of doughnuts.

That's not to say they didn't enjoy it.

But what kid wouldn't? As a matter of fact, as I am writing this post, EK is sitting on my lap, repeatedly asking for one of those, "awesome muffins."

So watch out all you mommies. With every press of the "snooze," your children's very sugar consumption might very well be at risk.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

2010-12-03T21:38:00.002-06:00

For some people its candied yams.

For others, its fruit cake.

Or maybe for you it is that first sip of eggnog.

It may be different for everyone. But it happens to us all.

Everybody has a distinct sign that officially (to them) rings in the holiday season.

That thing that evokes images of joy, family, relaxation, and over-consumption of caloric intake.

For me, its this...

ABC Family's 25 days of Christmas.

They start advertising it like late October, and my hurt begins to pitter-patter just a wee bite faster when I see that jolly old man, list in his hand, and hear the infamous music.

I always tell myself that I am going to watch it Every.Single.Night. But then the Harry Potter marathon comes on, and I just can't handle it. I mean, I understand that Harry Potter is some people's literature god, but to me - snooze-a-rama.

Besides, what big wig at the ABC company decided Harry Potter was a good Christmas movie anyway? I mean, sure, it has snow in a few scenes, but BIG DEAL, so does Scream 3 and I don't see that topping the Christmas movie his list.

I digress.

Some of my personal faves are Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Santa Clause, Frosty the Snowman, The Christmas Story, not to mention all the cheezy ABC original moves. Gotta love 'em.

Well, I had the priviledge of introducing my children to the Grinch a few nights ago. And it was magical.

Any excuse for me to get to watch Christmas movies is good enough for me, but getting to watch it with my whole family - well, thats just icing on the cake. Or icing on the fruit cake. Whatever tickles your fancy.

Turning 1 is so much fun!

2010-12-01T14:25:00.007-06:00

Now those of you that know me, or at least those of you who read this blog, know that I enjoy throwing my kiddos an annual birthday party.

However, in recent months, I started to contemplate the silliness in all of that. I mean, who wants all the stress of a making preparations, find the right cake, sending out the cutest invitations, and cleaning up your house - just to be left with a room full of people that would have loved it if it had been at the local McDonald's.

So that was that. I dusted off my hands. Turned a new leaf. And made a conscious choice to just have a simple celebration at home.

Too bad nobody else got the memo.

It all started when people began asking me what I was planning for my baby boy's first birthday.

"Oh, well, it falls on the day after Thanksgiving, and we will be out of town anyway, so I am sure we will just have some cake and ice cream at my parents."

*GASP*

So after much scrutiny, I decided to throw together a little dinner, with a few close friends and family.

Well, 15 presents, one birthday cake, two pots of chili, a dozen cupcakes, and three pies later, we called it a day.

Everyone kept blaming it on this adorable face.

Even when I insisted upon NO PRESENTS from our friends, they all did anyway.

Of course, some of the presents served a dual purpose. They also entertained our guests!

And here is a pic from birthday party #1. This is the crowd of everyone anxiously awaiting Stone to eat his first cupcake.

But he hated it. In fact, I smeared the icing on his face, just to get a decent picture.

He'll thank me someday.

We then traveled to Missouri for Thanksgiving, and had yet another cake.

Of course, he is a little young to blow out his candles, so his cousin and big sister helped with that.

And here is Stone, anxiously awaiting a bite of that yummy looking cake.

I call this the "before picture."

C'mon Stone-y EAT IT, EAT IT! You can almost here them all chanting through the picture, huh?

And this is Stone post-cake. The "after picture."

What can I say, he doesn't like cake. He clearly did not get that from me.

But its ok Stoney Bologna. We love you and all your too cute, loved by everyone, non-cake-eating ways.

I suppose next year, it will be back to the normal Birthday parties. This whole 'not planning one' was too much work.

Happy Birthday, Little Boy

2010-11-29T15:05:00.012-06:00

Oh, sweet baby boy, I miss you so much.

I miss your squishy face and your crinkly nose.

I miss your kissable cheeks and your ability to fit oh, so perfectly in the crook of my side during a Sunday afternoon nap.

I miss the days you would lie on my chest, so still and peaceful, as I thanked God for you with every simple, sweet breath.

I miss the way your big blue eyes would stare up at me as I spent hours counting your toes, smelling your hair, and basking in your newborn-ness.

I miss the stillness. I miss the smallness. I miss the newness.

***************

You are growing, baby boy. You are becoming a toddler and you are becoming your own.

You love to eat vegetables, you play with all things "boy," and you adore your big sisters.

I see in your tiny face, your determination and ability. You have such strong persistence and you love to live loudly. Your energy is great, but your heart is even greater.

Oh, the plans God must have for you, sweet boy.

I still love your chubby cheeks.

I still love to count your fingers and toes.

I still love to let you sleep in the crook of my side.

And I still love your big blue eyes.

But even more than all those things, my precious son, I love being your mommy.

Princess Day

2010-11-22T15:43:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the lack of blog-o-riffic posts lately. Ben has been feverishly interviewing (SHREEK!), and we have been consumed with way too much.

You know, like Christmas shopping, preparing for Thanksgiving in Missouri, football watching, and frolicking around like a little princess.

Ok, so maybe we left the frolicking to the little girls, but I was busy capturing it all.

Sometimes, in the midst of all life's craziness. we forget to just have fun as a family. So a few days ago, we declared the day "dress-up" day. The girls could wear whatever they wanted. And of course, like the good little girls that they are, they chose to be pretty as a princess.

We spent the day outside. Playing games...

Doing massive labor work....

Telling our deepest, dish-iest secrets....

and even getting whisked away on a mighty horse, (errr, lawnmower) by our prince....

What a great day.

My Faves - the not so obvious ones

2010-11-12T12:28:00.009-06:00

*Before I start, thank you all for the kind words and e-mails. Ben and I appreciate them greatly. God is doing mighty things in our little (only by stature) family, and I love that I get to share my heart with each of you. Consider yourselves hugged.*

A good friend of mine is having a baby! Hip-Hip-Hooray!

And so is everyone else I know.

Ok, maybe that is a wee bit dramatic. But this is the first big pregnancy wave that I have not been a part of.

Hold the phone, THAT deserves the three cheers. At least my uterus is cheering.

Anywho, I thought I would compile a list of my personal faves beginning from infancy, all the way through...well, through four years old, because that is as far as my motherhood has taken me.

And I thought I would spare you all the typical yadda yadda that everyone else suggests.

We all know to get a good swing and a pack and play, at least that is what EVERYBODY puts on their list. But these things, my dear friends, are items that no one really tells you about, that you will forever be indebted to me for bringing you up to speed on.

And I expect and hand-written thank-you note from each of you.

I'm serious. I like mail.

*Ahem* Back to the list.

The Early Years

If you plan on breastfeeding, consider this your formal warning: IT IS HARD WORK!

Seriously, no one tells you just how difficult it will be, especially those first few weeks. But now having successfully breastfed three babies all the way through the first year, I can single handily suggest that each of you need be prepared with one of these:

And not just any one of these. THE one of these. This is the Medela Freestyle hands free double breast pump. It makes breastfeeding that much easier and will not ensure success, but will prepare you for the best possible experience. It does not require a plug, so it is completely portable (including for use in the car or the state fair - yes, I did.), it remembers your specific moment of let-down and pumps accordingly, and is easily storable and washable. Yes. it is almost $400, but if you are really serious about breastfeeding, make the investment. It really will make the job easier.

Moving on.

Here is yet another commonly oops-I-forgot-to-mention-that. When babies eat, they spit up. They spit up a lot! And they spit up while they are asleep. Don't ask me why. Just mark it down as one of those things you can ask God someday.

But in the meantime, thank goodness for these...

The spit catcher, as my husband and I have lovingly referred to them as. When your baby spits up, or errr, leaks from the other end, just rip this bad boy off your sheets, and whola!, no midnight laundry loads for you. Like I said, you can thank me later. :-)

Aden and Anias swaddling blankets. Breathable, yet do its job. A MUST have. Don't buy the typical "swaddling blankets." They swaddle for two weeks, and that is IT!

And what baby post would be complete without a darling picture of my baby? And his teething necklace. A definite must. Be warned, though. Not all amber teething necklaces are the same. It has to be 100% Baltic amber. Some places use fillers, which don't allow it to do its job, thus making said necklace into nothing more then...well, a necklace. And who needs that? Especially at 2 in the morning when your baby is up screaming because his gums ache.

Oh, and when you buy one (hip-green-baby.com is the best), make sure you put it in the sun for a few hours before wearing. It helps activate it.

I put mine on the kiddos when they are about six weeks, and never take it off.

Those In-Between Times:

The essentials for the toddler years are plain and simple. Keep them fed, and make that food as accessible as possible.

I love this contraption, recommended to me on another blog.

It is great for on-the-go snacks, allowing five different varieties! Not to mention, if one of my charming children drops one of the cups on the floor, have no fear, there are four more.

Ahhh, the sounds of happy children.

And this is a new one for me. But with Stone, it has been a must.

I hate baby food so much. In fact, it is such a horrible stage, that sometimes I avoid it all together. The messy faces, ruined outfits, and messy baby food jars -all of it is just too much.

Until now.

This all organic baby food is my new best friend. Just pop the top, give it to the young-in, and they suck it down. No jar, no spoon, no mess, and no dishes. Oh, and one happy mama.

And while we are on the subject of food, I adore these type of high-chairs.

Not only do they not take up any floor space in your dining room, but they don't take up a chair around the table either. Just scoot it on and voila! And you could be like me, and obsess about the germs in restaurants and take said high chair with you. Just about wherever you go.

The Later Years - or you know, age 2-4:

By the time your kiddos has reached the latter toddler years, you pretty much got this thing figured out. At least, you think you do. Until your child puts gum in her hair, and you are calling your mother absolutely hysterical while googling quick remedies. And the you rethink your stability.

But at least you know what your kid likes.

But just for the sake of it, I included a few items that I have loved for my growing toddlers.

First of all, make your children use a straw sippy cup. From.Day.One. It is too difficult to teach them to tilt their cup, and even if they master that, once they transition to a straw, they still try and tip, thus resulting in a humungo mess. Oy.

And this straw sippy is the Cadillac of sippy cups.

Get one. And then put me in your will.

And I have said it before, but I will say it again. I heart this toy.

The Sweet Pea MP3 player has been a lifesaver. It has soothed my fretting newborn, been background music for my crawling babe, entertained my potty-training tot, and been the sing-along on many a car-trip. It is fabulous and should be enjoyed be all.

So that's it! My faves of mothering. Well, at least my non-obvious faves. Hope you enjoyed!

A Time to Reflect

2010-11-10T11:27:00.007-06:00

Nearly 18 months ago, I posted here about our new beginning, as God was calling us away from our place of ministry, and onto something even greater.

Little did we know, that "something greater" was going to be months and months of questions, bitterness, and disappointment.

You see, when we left our church, we left confident. Confident that God would provide. However, we were naive in thinking it would happen overnight. I mean, we are the Ramseys. We know everyone in ministry. How hard could it be to find a place?

So confident, in fact, that we turned down two jobs, sure something better was going to come along.

Well, it is November 2010, and we are physically in the same boat we were in when we left our home in Texas. We still live with my in-laws, we still are applying for jobs, we still have no idea what God has in store.

Spiritually, however, we are on a whole other playing field.

When we left, I had so many questions. Where will we live? When will Ben get a job? How will we pay for things? Will I ever make friends? While I expected God to allow me to live as a testimony by ANSWERING all these questions, he has, in fact, he has allowed me to live as a testimony by not answering them at all.

Turns out, I don't need much money. I don't need an address of my own. I don't even need 10 amazing girlfriends. God has taught me in the last year that all I need is Him. Simple to Say. Painful to execute.

Where will we live? I have spent countless hours crying over my things. As a mother, all I want is to have my own space, my own domain, my own territory. Every time I would open the creaking garage door to our storage unit, I would cry as I saw all my stuff, piled high, going to waste. I thought I was hurting my children by not allowing them to live in a home they could call their own. I so worried that I was losing precious time with them, time that I would never get back, time that was quickly slipping through my fingers. I longed for the day when I could cook a meal on my newly purchased Rachel Ray cookware. I had lofty dreams of climbing into my own bed and sleeping sounder than I had in months. I just wanted life to be normal.

When will Ben get a job? Ben and I have spent the last 18 months feverishly applying for ministry positions. We have phone interviewed with at least 25 churches, face to face interviewed with at least a dozen, and been to the final stages with a few. And yet, God closes the door with each and every one. Now that is not to say that there hasn't been a lot of pain and heartache with each of those closed doors. Often, these doors are closed because of sin, lies, deception, and bitterness. And it has hurt. Hurt a lot. But we know our God is bigger then any lie someone can tell about us. Bigger than any bitterness people hold. And greater than any dagger Satan may throw our way. So we continue to overcome. We continue to push through. We continue to persevere. Because we must. There are moments, though, that I cry out to the Lord and moments that I wonder if he has forgotten about us. All we want to do is spend the rest of our lives changing the next generation and equipping them to do great things for Jesus. All we want is to fulfill God's calling on our lives. And all we want, is for life to be normal again.

How will we pay for things? This question may be the scariest question I had. Ask any mom, and she will tell you the financial demands of raising children. I wondered how I would afford enough food to feed their growing appetite. I worried about the clothes on their back and the shoes on their feet. I worried about everything. And I just didn't want to worry anymore. I just want to live a normal life.

Will I ever make friends? While in Texas, God had blessed me with some amazing friends. Friends at church, friends at MOPS, and friends from a local Bible Study. They had been so influential in my life and in my spiritual development. I was sure, wherever we moved, that God would provide the same. While God has brought some amazing women into my life that have been a tremendous help to me as a wife and mother, this place has also brought about some of the deepest hurts I have ever felt. There are days that I walk through life, feeling like I am consumed with a burden, unable to really catch my breath, and barely able to life one foot in front of the other. There have been days when all I needed was a best friend who would offer nothing more than a listening ear. There have been days when I have just wanted to cry, eat chocolate, and dream of simpler times. Why wouldn't God answer that for me? Why is no one there for me? Why does no one see it on my face? Why can't things just go back to normal?

So many questions. And yet, seemingly, no answers. At least not the answers I wanted.

It wasn't until just a few months ago that God began to change my heart. Sometimes no answer is THE answer.

You see, I was so wrapped up in money, houses, jobs, friends, and things that I had lost focus on my true priority.

I wanted God to wash all my fears away, when he was only longing to use them to bring me into a deeper, richer relationship with Him.

Sometimes God DOES answer our prayers in the exact way we had imagined. Sometimes He DOES do miracles. Sometimes He DOES take all the suffering away. Sometimes He DOES move mountains.

And yet sometimes, when we ask to move a mountain, He responds my handing us a shovel.

I was asking to move a mountain. I was asking God to show up in our lives. I was begging him to answer our prayers. And yet I was so unwilling to do anything about it. So unwilling to trust God and his provision for my life. So unwilling to seek after God with all my heart. So unwilling to grab a shovel.

There are still moments that I feel lost and alone. There are still moments that I find myself crying out of fear and desperation. There are sometimes that I allow the stress of it all to overtake me. There are sometimes that I take out my frustrations on my family.

There are still moments I am not proud of. There are moments I long for my stuff and moments I wish God would call us to a place of ministry. There are still moments that I worry about how we will afford Christmas for our children this year. And there are still moments that I long for a dear friend. And yes, there are still moments that I long for things to be normal again.

But by the grace of God, and by his strength in my life - those moments are getting fewer and further between. I am learning to be still amidst the storm and to trust him through all things. I am learning that all I really need in life is Him, and when I rest quietly in that, he will sustain my every desire.

I know that God will answer my prayers. Although I no longer pray for a house, a job, lots of money, or a friend. Rather, I pray that God would fulfill Ephesians 3:20 in my life:

"God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us."

He WILL do far more than I could ever imagine. He WILL do more than I could ever guess or request. He WILL come to our rescue. And He WILL keep my head up through it all.

P.S. We are ANXIOUSLY awaiting God's perfect place of ministry for us, and don't worry, you all will be some of the first to know!

Sweet children,

I am sure, someday, you will find yourself facing a similar struggle. An instance when you have to put your entire trust and hope in your Heavenly Father. I hope that you will find this story and learn from the mistakes of your mommy. I hope you will trust easier, give up control willingly, and prepare yourself for God's richest blessings on you. No matter the struggle, your mommy loves you more with every passing day. Go and do great things for Jesus. Be a testimony of his grace and goodness. I truly believe that God had tremendous things mapped out for each of your lives. Things your mommy can't even imagine. Don't let your circumstances stop you. Grab a shovel, and move your mountain. I love you.

Blogging Challenge - Day 10

2010-11-07T19:12:00.007-06:00

Mine is over. Still wanna join? Here are the rules. One.Last.Time.

Day 10 - A picture of you last year, and a picture of you now. How have you changed.

Well, most obviously, I am no longer with child.

Well, at least I don't think I am.

Either way, I am not ginormously pregnant, like I was at this time last year.

Ben and I had taken the kiddos to a pumpkin patch with some of our good friends. That is me in the white.

I know what you are thinking, but when you are ginormously this huge, you don't take pictures of yourself willingly.

But here I am now...

With said child on the OUTSIDE of my stomach, and I am down about 45 pounds (including baby). Which is A.Maz.Ing.

On a more serious side, I am a more patient mother, a more understanding wife, and hopefully a better friend.

My most drastic change, however, has been in my relationship with Jesus. At this time last year, I was disgruntled at our situation, nervous about our finances, and bitter against some people who had done us wrong. Just to name a few.

God has taught me over the past year to be anxious for nothing, and to take this "wilderness" experience, as God's desire to grow and shape us. He is preparing us for something GREAT and we must be patient.

I have learned to let go of my finances, and watch God provide.

And I have learned to forgive those who hurt us the most. It is amazing the freedom found when I let go of my hurts. And it is amazing to know that God forgives my constant grievances. I am so unworthy, but I am so grateful for his grace.

I hope at this time next year, I can be even more changed. And I plan to remain faithful to HIM no matter how difficult those changes might be.

The Great Blogging Challege - Day 9

2010-11-05T07:58:00.008-05:00

Aren't you sad its almost over? Well, start your own!

Day 9 -A letter to your parents.

I have been somewhat dreading this post.

Not because my parents leave me void of words. No, the exact opposite is my problem.

I am not sure I can adequately express onto paper just how much they have meant to me, and subsequently, how much they have meant to my husband and children

But, try I must.

Dear Mom,

Although I call you mom, the name mentor, teacher, and best friend, are probably more appropriate words to call you. It sometimes seems like God designed you specifically for me, and I am oh so thankful.

As a young girls, you taught me the importance of upholding our family name and respecting my daddy. You encouraged me to dreams big dreams and never take no for an answer. You gave me a love for writing and encouraged my creative side. You always allowed me to try, even when you knew I would fail. And you taught me to be a good friend, even when others turned their back on me.

As a teenager, you encouraged me to soar my wings and be independent. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to send you 14 year old daughter halfway around the world to teach English to Polish teenagers, but it is because of your sacrifice, and your encouragement that I soared my rings, and subsequently altered my life forever. You threw the best backyard parties and always made our home a place I wanted to be. You put on your "cheer mom" shirt and screamed your lungs out every February in Dallas. And you listened to me cry my eyes out over broken hearts and broken relationships.

Since becoming a wife and mom, you have taken on yet another role. You are still my cheerleader, still my secret keeper, and still my best friend. But now, you are a mentor. As I face life's most difficult challenges of marriage and motherhood, you are always there, pointing me back to the Bible and pointing me to the truth. This past year has been a daunting one for me, and you have seen my heart hurt more than any mom would like. You have hurt right along with me and have been my only consistent. You never judge, never question, never criticize. You always encourage, always offer hope, and always speak Scripture. You will never truly know how important you have been to me this past year.

I tell you often, but probably not enough. I am proud to be your daughter, and love you more everyday. God blessed me mightily when he allowed me to be your daughter. Thank you for who you have been, who you are, and who you will be.

Dear Dad,

While mom might be my best friend and closest confidante, you are my hero. It is because of you that our family remains. It is because of you that our family has a testimony that offers hope and healing to families left broken and bruised. It is because of you that I whispered an innocent prayer, calling our for a Savior that would change my life forever. And it is because of you that I married the man of my dreams.

As a little girl, I watched you make a tremendous stand for my family and I will always be indebted to you for honoring God and keeping our family intact. You loved unconditionally and unceasingly - just as Jesus does. While those few years were probably very difficult for all of us, they are still filled with positive memories, so thank you.

As a young teenager, you took me on date nights and showed a genuine interest in me. Our evenings at the go-cart ring and the local ice cream parlor are some of my most cherished memories. My high school girlfriends still talk about "cool Mr. L" and his midnight pizza runs. I remember our trips to Washington DC and Kansas City. I remember when you took me jean shopping, and you were so good to smile and nod. And I remember sitting on a curb of a local college, as we shared a box of pizza and a liter of Sprite. It was then you poured out your heart for my future, begging me to settle for nothing less than God's best. I didn't understand at the time, but I would in two weeks - when I would meet my groom.

You were so good to not laugh to my face when I told you that I had met the man I wanted to marry. Instead, you promised to pray and promised to look into him further. Unannounced to me, you began meeting with Ben weekly for almost 9 months, protecting both my heart and his. You promised to stop at nothing to find the best for your daughter, and let me assure you dad - you hit the jackpot. Four years later, you gave me away and officiated the most beautiful wedding I have ever seen. You cried, you coughed, and you made the audience stand for almost eight minutes, but I mostly remember the love in your eye as you saw your daughter marry a man who had become a friend.

Thank you dad, for not giving up there. You continue to mentor Ben and I and continue to offer us hope and encouragement as we sometimes stand alone and without promise. Your strength through adversity gives us a hope for the future, and reassures us that God does have a plan. You paved the way for us. Thank you for showing me a little piece of Jesus.

And thank you for teaching me how to hide my gum.

Mom and Dad, you have provided memories to last a lifetime, and have been a large part in our ability to make memories with our own family. Your grandchildren adore you, and I am so glad they have a Memaw and Poppy that points them to Jesus. You have begun a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

I love you with every ounce of my being. It is an honor to carry your name, and I hope that I will always wear it well.

Love,
Diffy, Princess, & Motor-mouth

The Great Blogging Challenge - Day 8

2010-11-04T21:27:00.001-05:00

Da' Rules.

Day 8 - Something you crave.

Chips & Salsa.

Pregnant or not, I crave them the same.

The Great Blogging Challenge - Day 7

2010-11-03T15:58:00.003-05:00

Just call me a Rule Follower!

Day 7 - Nicknames you have and why you have them.

The only real nickname I have ever been awarded (besides mom, mommy, mommy-dearest, and yo-mom!) is Diffy.

Of course, this came from the mouth of my lovely older brother.

Don't siblings give the best nicknames? For instance, I can't get EK and P to stop calling their brother "Stoner." Someday, they will understand. But for now, they continue to do it - mostly to drive me nuts, I'm sure.

The story goes something like this:

Neal, being three years older than me, was still in his fumbling-around-with-words-and-pronunciation stage, and when his darling, perfect, adorable baby sister was born, he began to call her Mere-dif. Of course, as any good parent would, they made encouraged Neal to make it a little cuter by calling me Mere-diffy. But like a good American, Neal got lazy and eventually dropped the "Mere" and just suck with "diffy."

So there ya have it.

I know what you are thinking. Diffy isn't that bad of a nickname. In fact, you might even things its cute.

But it is cute when you go to junior high?

Or when you graduate high school?

Or how about when it is called out to you as you are standing on the threshold of your new dorm room?

Or how about when you go to summer camp and all the counselors make you tell the story of how you got that nickname, and then they develop that into a new nickname - Different Strokes.

Or how about when your cousins still call you that when wishing you happy birthday on your facebook wall?

Or how about when you are a mom, and your children look at you weird when their uncle calls you that To.This.Day.

Is it still cute?

I suppose it is. I mean, I still answer to it.

The Great Blogging Challenge - Day 6

2010-11-02T16:45:00.004-05:00

Link'in up the rules!

Day 6 - When your ipod is on shuffle, what are the first 10 songs it might play. With no explanation.

Yeah, ok. So I added that last part. But I consider myself a rule follower, so if it is in the rules, then by-golly, I must stick to them.

You know, and spare you from the agony of me rambling on and on and on about absolutely nothing when all you really want to read about is what songs, that are in no particular order, that I might listen to on my ipod, car radio, computer, etc. while shopping, running, or chilling.

Phew. See what I mean.

Here we go:

Oh, and don't judge.

I am not a teeny bopper, but somewhere deep inside, is one that is dying to get out.

1. Bruno Mars - Just the Way You Are
2. Taio Cruz- Dynamite
3. Jason Derulo - Ridin' Solo (the edited version)
4. Katy Perry - Teenage Dream
5. Kesha - Blah Blah Blah (edited)

I said don't judge.

So stop laughing. It is my run music and let me tell you, it is Mo-tivating.

6. Barney's Favorite - Six Little Ducks
7. Dora the Explorer - The Chicken Dance

Just keepin' it real.

8. Planetshakers - Free
9. Hillsong - Hosanna
10. Kari Jobe - No Sweeter Name

Gets me through the hard days.

So there ya go. With no (er, I mean, little) explanation.

Catch ya on the flip side - or tomorrow. Whatever.

Blogging Challenge - Day 5

2010-11-01T10:51:00.004-05:00

Of course, the guidelines.

Day 5 - Short term goals for this month and dreams for your life ahead.

Mostly because I am lazy, but also to keep from boring you with useless jibber jabber, I am going to list this in, well, list form.

Novel idea, I know.

And you're welcome.

Short Term Monthly Goals:

How perfect is it that this "monthly goal" question landed on November 1st? Totally didn't plan that. This isn't really a monthly goal, is it? Well, this particular bullet doesn't count. It is my blog, stop judging.
Share my faith at least once a week.
Finish my Christmas shopping.
Blog at least 15 times this month
Lose five pounds
Email/Facebook every single girl in my 9th grade small group - there is a TON of them.
Sell the rest of my "craigslist stash" that is in the garage.
Add at least $100 to the furniture fund.
Bake my weight in things that smell "fallish."
Trust God for my circumstances. Believe he will provide, even when it seems unrealistic.
Run at least 3 times a week.
Not buy ANYTHING for myself.
Make my tithe the first check I write after each paycheck.

Dream for your life ahead:

Be in youth ministry. Maybe full-time, maybe as a volunteer. But BE IN MINISTRY!
Go on a romantic getaway just me and Ben.
Get a house, and consequently, a permanent, full-time position..
See all my family members come to know Jesus as their Savior.
Take a family vacation every year.
Take Ben somewhere outside of the United States.
Have more kids.
Learn to grow a garden.
Take Ben to Fenway Park.
Take time to enjoy each stage of life with my children.
Read through the Bible in a year.
Take more pictures.
Be a better friend.

Whew. I feel like the guys on The Buried Life.

And what is a good post without a good picture....

Can't wait to read your goals!

Even if you haven't been playing along, link up for this post, it was so interesting to write!

PTI

2010-10-31T13:03:00.003-05:00

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

2010-10-30T08:22:00.003-05:00

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

2010-10-29T20:02:00.004-05:00

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

2010-10-28T16:09:00.003-05:00

(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

2010-10-27T08:45:00.003-05:00

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!

2010-10-25T22:04:00.004-05:00

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

2010-10-24T14:31:00.004-05:00

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

2010-10-21T16:05:00.006-05:00

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.

October 15

2010-10-16T16:26:00.002-05:00

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

2010-10-08T10:39:00.004-05:00

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.

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-10-06T11:14:00.003-05:00

It seemed like an average Wednesday.

I woke to the sounds of a crying 10 month old, the shrills of two silly girls, and the sounds of a newspaper being eagerly read by their father.

I felt the same. I was overly tired and regretting my decisions to stay up and watch Dancing With the Stars until 11:00 last night. My mind was flooded with the impending chores that overwhelmed my to-do list, and of course, I had no idea what was on the menu for dinner tonight.

Yep, pretty typical day.

Except for one thing - ITS MY BIRTHDAY!

Now any mom can tell you, that birthdays for us are pretty un-eventful. Unless you count cleaning up potty training accidents, mopping the floor, folding six loads of laundry, and playing dress-up with your three year old "eventful happenings."

I was given the greatest birthday present a girl could ask for, though.

No, it wasn't a Le Creuset, a day at the spa, or a mall shopping spree.

Those are on my Christmas list, silly.

No, I got something even better.

After sleepily flopping down the stairs, I grabbed a bowl of cereal and sat on the couch to relax for one more minute until daddy left for work.

My little man came briskly crawling to my feet.

He has radar for food.

He stood sweetly, giving me those eyes, practically pleading for a bite of my granola.

How could a girl resist? "No, honey. Maybe when you are a little bit older."

And then...it happened.

"Mama."

After giving him the biggest grin of my life, I quickly screamed at Ben to get his hiney in here and make sure I hadn't just hallucinated.

"Mama." AHHH! He did it again!

Stone has been saying "Dada" for a good month and a half, but never rewarded all of my hard work with a "mama." Until today.

I can't believe Ben thought to capture this moment. I am so glad, because it was the best birthday present a girl could ask for.

I am so glad I get to be his mommy.

Why channel 169 makes me feel like a loser...

2010-09-29T11:21:00.005-05:00

You want to feel like a complete failure as a mother?

Then watch cartoons with your three year old.

I am drop.dead.serious.

Picture this. My three year old comes joyfully marching up the stairs, and sweetly whispers in my ear, "Wise and shine, mommy!" To which I quickly nudge her father, insisting it is indeed HIS turn to get up with her. When he doesn't even budge, I fall out of bed, put on whatever dirty clothes are lying on the floor, throw my unbrushed hair into a pony tail, and stumble out of the room and into the den.

I grab the remote, turn on some Sesame Street, get my blanket and pull it over my head. It is insanely too early to function.

15 minutes later, I feel yet another nudge. "Mommy, I'm hungry." I think about explaining to her the repercussions of waking a sleeping mommy, but instead say, "there is some dry cereal in the pantry. Go knock yourself out, and mommy will make breakfast in a little bit."

I spend the next 30 minutes falling in and out of sleep, often being awoken by a silly little blonde girl, ready to start the day. When I finally decide enough it enough, I sit up, throw off the blanket, and let out a big sigh.

Of course, I am then met with a killer headache due to the weird concoction my head was in as I attempted to lay on the couch. I reach for some Arnica, a hot cup of coffee, and a 5 hour energy - because Lord knows I am gunna need it.

So who wants to award me Mom of the Year?

When I first learned I was pregnant with Ellie Kate, my lazy boned, overworked, too-tired-to-get-my-butt-off-the-couch persona of a mom was NOT what I had imagined.

I thought I actually might BE mom of the year, and have all the answers, persistence, and patience in the world.

But I quickly learned, that only happens in cartoons.

You see, while laying on the couch, my mind is subtly infiltrated with the cartoons my three year old is watching. Many of them are the same. They are small children of the animal variety, living in small quaint towns, with their cute little families, constantly playing in the sunny backyard while their perfectly put together moms clean, bake, launder, home school, and operate their own nonprofit organizations.

So maybe not the nonprofit organization thing, but I wouldn't put it past 'em.

Cast in point - Olivia.

Olivia is a vibrant little pig, who is constantly using her imagination to create, play, and discover. Her zest for life can get her in trouble often, but by the end of each 15 minute segment, she is back on track to becoming a perfect future adult citizen.

Her mother is oh.so.patient. and never ever loses her temper.

I remember one instance in which Olivia was preparing for a hometown parade complete with drums, horns, and whistles. Olivia's mother had been warning Olivia and her friends to keep it down because William, Olivia's baby brother, was having a hard time napping.

"Oh good, something I can relate to." I thought to myself. But unfortunately, the similarities ended there.

Olivia preceded to awaken her brother several times as she was preparing for her parade, and her mother would calmly speak from the window or back porch, "Olivia, remember dear, William is trying to nap."

About midway through the episode, Olivia's mother had just rocked poor little William to sleep, and was preparing to lay him in his bed when BOOM, Olivia comes busting through the door announcing that her little "bother" (aka, brother Ian), was insisting on being the grand marshall. Of course, William awakens and begins to cry.

Ohhhhh boy, I thought. Olivia is gonna get it this time! I mean, hasn't this happened to all of us?

We moms work for HOURS just to get our kids to sleep, and that pesky salesman rings the door bell, the neighbors dog begins to bark, or one of your DARLING children comes bursting through the door.

"ARE YOU KIDDING ME! I have told you ten times to be quiet because your baby brother is trying to sleep! Have you lost your mind? Go to your room, I am so frustrated!" To which I proceed to sit on the floor and throw myself a pity party.

Isn't that the way every mom would respond?

Well, not Olivia's moms. She quietly sighs, and says, "Oh William, maybe you need some fresh air."

Yeah, OK.

Olivia's mom ain't alone. She has competition for fantasy mom of the year.

Franklin's mommy.

This woman always has the right answer.

She knows how to soothe her fearful child, reprimand bad behavior, and instill wholesome values - all while staying cool, calm, and collected - and baking brownies.

Her house is always spotless, there is never a crumb on the floor, and she always has a well-balanced meal on the table.

They own no TV, and Franklin is a model friend, student, and son, who loves his vegetables.

And to be quite honest, her soft tone makes me want to obey sometimes.

And This one is the real cake topper...

Max and Ruby are a brother and sister who play together and resolve their differences in ways that are respectful and supportive. And all without adult supervision.

Looking for a way to kick a mommy when she is down - make her feel like a 7-year old big sister surpasses her mothering abilities.

No joke.

Ruby is so patient with Max. When she has plans to practice her dance routine with her friends, and he throws mud balls at their recently washed tutus - she smiles and says, "Oh, Max." Or when she has worked all day at baking a cake for their grandmother and Max eats it all when she turns her back - she politely reprimands him, using words like, "be kind, and make a better choice." Why don't those words come to my mind in moments of weaknesses?

On the contrary. During the time it took me to write this post, I have "raised my voice" at least 6 times, and used the words, "this is your last warning," and "are you trying to drive your mother crazy?"

So just in case any of you were planning on nominating me for Mother of the Year - there are clearly better choices out there. Just tune into Nick Jr.

I suppose there is no hope.

Maybe I should animate myself?

The Dirt Sisters

2010-09-22T11:26:00.003-05:00

Remember when I blogged here about having dreams of a hair-bow wearing, tutu attiring, high-heel strutting little girl, but instead I got a power-tool using, june-bug disecting, grimey fingered Elle Kate?

Well, she has found a recruit...

And boy does she like to get dirty.

And now, they join forces to torture me.

I wonder if there is any hope for their little brother?

Doubtful.

One Hot Date

2010-09-19T20:44:00.006-05:00

It had been a while since Ben and I had gone and spent some quality time together, and we never know how much longer we will have live-in-babysitters, so we took the opportunity to go on a "hot" date this afternoon. Both figuratively and literally.

Figuratively because my husband is a major hottie and he accompanied me on this date. And literally because it was hotter than blazes outside. Isn't is September?

We contemplated the options. Steak Dinner? Ice cream and a movie? Stroll around the canal?

Nah, why not head to the Great State Fair!
And so we did. My brother gave us complimentary passes that he had been given and both of us hadn't been to the fair in years, so we thought - what better way to spend a Sunday afternoon?

The minute I stepped out of the car, all the memories came flooding back. It looked the same. It sounded the same. It definitely smelled the same. And I immediately felt panicky and claustrophobic.

Ahhh....just how I remembered it.

Like a couple of goofball that we are, we both forgot our sunglasses. And did I mention it was hot? So we immediately stopped at the sunglasses booth and purchased our $5 glasses. It was also at this point that I made a mental note to open a cheap sunglasses joint at the fair. These people were raking in the cash. You would have thought they were passing out golden nuggets.

Don't mock. They were $5 and we were desperate.

We made our way to the "I will never be able to afford in this lifetime" section of the fairgrounds. You know...the place that is filled with things like this....

And this....

Ben and I quickly formulated a plan. Go find the purchase, that if given the freedom, you would take home today at no cost.

Of course, I went practical...

And Ben shockingly did as well...

Until he changed his mind...

Yeah, ok honey. Keep dreaming.

We started to get hungry, so we headed outside to see what fine eatery they had around these parts.

I swear, there must be some kind of contest amongst the food vendors on who can create the most disgusting dish. This one definitely would have been in the running....

I love that there is a picture or a yogurt/fruit/granola parfait, an equal sign, and then the words "Chicken Parfait." I mean, when I see a yogurt parfait, my mind immediately thinks of chicken.

You mean yours doesn't?

And then this.

The donut burger is really what I want to focus in on here. My mind was intrigued, and I had to go check it out for myself. Was it just a burger on a bagel, or was it some sort of dessert meat? The answer is neither.

When asked, "what exactly is a 'donut burger'?" the man quickly replied "it's a burger on a donut." Well, thank you. That helps tremendously.

I found somebody who had actually ordered one and I peered over her shoulder. It is a regular hamburger with bacon, lettuce, cheese, and tomato - all piled high between two glazed donuts.

Are you salivating yet?

How about this one...

Don't adjust your screens.

Or this one...

I am not even sure how that is humanly possible.

Maybe this one will tickle your fancy...

And yes, that is a line you see. People must have been intrigued. I mean, seriously, where do they come up with this stuff?

After all that find array of choices, we finally settled on this.

A good ole' Indian Taco, Curly Fries, and a jug of root beer. Too bad the root beer went from freezing cold to lukewarm in 3 minutes flat.

It was H-O-T!

We scarfed it down.

After we ate, we did some walking and some window shopping. We needed some major exercise after the gorge-fest we just endured.

Have you been to the fair recently? Well, if you haven't let me save you the trouble. There are some strange-o things there - besides the food. I'll save you from the images of belly-exposing grandma's and spandex wearing dudes, and show you the stuff that won't make you lose your lunch.

While paroozing the building, I came across this ginormous stock pot. This picture does not do it justice. I mean, it is bigger than any three stock pots put together. I immediately wondered what you would cook in there and my mind went to Thanksgiving for the whole trailer park. Seriously, that is all you would need it for. Maybe I should ask the Pioneer Woman. She might know.

Oh, and the "Acupressure Experience." Yikes. Funny thing is, I was not the only one taking pictures.

And did I mention this? C'mon Now!

I wasn't sure whether to include this in the food or the strange objects.

And don't even get me started on this guy. I protected his face in case he is like your brother-in-law.

This Segway guys followed us around on his little contraption doing spins and pirouettes continually reminding us that for just $1700 this bad boy could be ours. I am sad to say that Ben accepted his business card. I will let you know if we become a proud new parent of a Segway in the near future.

We ended our day with an exhausting-ly long walk to the car. I swear our car was not that far away when we arrived. I imagine it was fate trying to get us to walk off some of those one million calories that we just consumed.

Especially since we took this to the car with us..

Seriously, what fair trip is complete without a cinnamon roll covered in ooey-gooey butter cream icing (that cost $1 extra).

Needless to say, I won't be eating for an entire week. Except I ate dinner only two hours after we had returned. It's all good though. I am nursing, right?

After we left the fair, I made Ben immediately drive to the closest gas station, and I quickly purchased the first antibacterial hand sanitizer that I could get my grimey hands on. I returned to the car and began slathering it all over my hands and feet. Open toed shoes = big mistake. Just sayin.

All in all, we had a fabulous time. I wondered the whole way there if we were making a big mistake by not bringing the kids. But high temperatures, large crowds, over-priced food, and a smoke haze hovering over the fair ground's 4 acres set my mind at ease.

Besides, every married couple needs to take time out for themselves and have a little fun. Next time, though, maybe we'll step up the prestige a little. You know, and hit up a Steak n' Shake.

We dream big.

My life - in bullets

2010-09-15T13:23:00.004-05:00

I am obsessed with teeny bopper reality TV. Although I don't admit it in everyday life, I am currently obsessed with watching things like Bachelor Pad and Teen Mom. I swear I don't wish to be a teenager again, but I just can't resist the urge to watch.

I love candy corn - but only in the Fall. I was actually surprised a couple months ago that they sell it all year. Who knew?

I counted down the hours until Stone's new crib bumper arrived in the mail, and now it is sitting on the bed in the spare bedroom. You know...because he still isn't in a crib.

I feel blah about the job hunt. I am beginning to wonder what the purpose in all of this actually is.

Ben bet a 46 year old, chain smoking, mountain-dew drinking co-worker that he couldn't run a mile in under 12 minutes. They bet $100 and I have already mentally spent that money.

The Pioneer Woman is my new hero. While I have loved her in the past, I am discovering more recipes that I adore and my family loves. She is also the reason I want a Le Creuset for Christmas.

I am not really sure why I need a Le Creuset, but she cooks Every.Single.Dish with one, so I need one too.

After watching The Little Couple the other day, I spent the rest of the afternoon researching how to become a surrogate mom. Not that Ben would ever let me....

I Hate Facebook. And I Love Twitter.

My father-in-law has recently reached an all new level of crazy. Last night, after I had gone upstairs to bed, he kept texting me random lines from nursery rhymes, none of which belonged together, and all from the comfort of his bedroom - downstairs. Weird. But kinda funny too.

I love the idea of running, but when it actually comes time to lift my lazy booty off the couch to go do it - I just can't seem to muster up the energy. I come up with some excuse like, "Stone nursed a lot today, so I think I have burned enough calories." Right.

I keep telling myself that I want to blog everyday, but I somehow think that I just don't have enough material. Who am I kidding? I could probably blog everyday for the next month on things my children have tried to flush down the toilet - including green beans and a pumpkin.

Love this idea? Swipe it from me! Did I really just say "swipe?" No more Dora the Explorer for me.

*Comment on this post with a link to your blog, so that everyone can go read YOUR life in bullets.

9/11

2010-09-11T21:58:00.002-05:00

September 11, 2001

Seventeen years old, and just beginning my senior year of high school, I woke up and began getting ready - much like every other day. I got dressed, ate a bowl of cereal, and picked up my book bag as I made my way out the door. I hopped in the car and blasted some tunes - probably some Nsync and Britney Spears.

My first class of the day was Computer. Mrs. Llewelyn had us working on a creative project where we were to write a three column newsletter on any topic of our choosing. I chose to write a persuasive article on Why Cheerleading is a Sport. I am sure it was filled with factual information like, "because we sweat a lot," and "counting out 8-counts is really hard work!"

Brad Latham, my computer class neighbor walked in a few minutes late - which was a regular occurrence. He asked me if I heard about the plane crash in New York City. I hadn't, and he didn't know much about it, but thought it was interesting. He began to complete his three column project with a fictional article about a plane crashing into a building in NYC.

I remember looking over and he had downloaded some clip art of a building and a plane and had positioned them so that the plane was heading toward the building. "Strange boy, that Brad Latham," were the thoughts that crossed my mind.

It wasn't until third hour US History class with Mr. Smith that I began to see the severity and the seriousness of the events that were taking place in our once protected and undisturbed country. Mr. Smith wheeled a TV cart into our classroom and we all watched as smoke filled the streets of NYC and people were scrambling around, trying to find loved ones. I will never forget the images I saw on that TV. Hurt, Sorrow, Desperation, and Grief were written all over the faces of so many. Fireman tried desperately to rescue and revive the lives and parents were screaming the names of their lost children. I remember thinking to myself, "this can't be real. I'm going to wake up and this will all be a horrible nightmare."

For the rest of the school day, much of our classroom discussions were replaced with newscasts and discussions on terrorism and the future. Many parents came and picked up their children from school that day - something I never understood until I had children of my own. When tragedy strikes, you want nothing more than to be with the ones that you love, hold them tight, and thank God for blessing you with another breath.

I had no idea how much that fateful day would change the course of history and change the great United States of America. I had no idea that the lives that were sacrificed that day were only the first to lose their life in pursuit of freedom. I had no idea that nine years later, I would still remember where I was, what I was doing, and how I left as history changed forever.

I pray that my children will never experience a day like September 11, 2001. Unfortunately, however, this world seems to be corrupting more and more with each passing day. I know that the temptations, sins, and tragedies of the next generation will only be more intensified and severe. I pray that God would use me to equip them in reaching this world for Christ. I pray they would surrender to transforming a generation - one life at a time. I pray that they would be protected from the deep hurts of this world and always be ready for His return.

As I reflect on my memories of that day, and think of the future for my children, I can't help but look to the sky and pray the Lord comes quickly.

Lookin Shnazzy....

2010-09-06T09:11:00.003-05:00

You know that old saying, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks"?

Well, it turns out, it isn't true.

In this scenario, my dad is the old dog and the new trick is any sense of fashion - what.so.ever.

No offense, dad.

This is what I had to work with....

The shirt isn't so bad - if you are at Buffalo Wild Wings with five of your best buddies throwing down some hot wings and soda on Game Day. But anywhere else? Completely unacceptable.

The jeans are the Sam's Club Special (probably from 1998), and those are his "nice pair."

The shoes, although intended by the manufacturer for gardening and such, have become a staple in his casual wear attire.

It became a personal mission of mine to bring this man into the twenty-first century world of fashion.

Dad, I would like to introduce you to a proper shopping experience...

It is a world full of dressing rooms and sales attendants. The clothes are on hangers and the floors have carpet.

My dad was quite the trooper. He tried on BKE shoes, Affliction shirts, and I even got him to try on some Big Star jeans. This wasn't just a step up, this was a catapult into a new galaxy.

It is amazing what some nice clothes can do for ya. I swear, he looks twenty years younger.

Although it is not evident in this picture, my mom was very supportive of this whole experience. She came right along with us, and gave her two cents on how his backside looked in the jeans. An aspect that was clearly outside my jurisdiction. At the very moment of this picture, she swears she was laughing at something the sales attendant said.

And although Ellie Kate looks a little concerned about her Poppy and his new-found style, she was honestly, probably more concerned about her snack that had just fallen on the ground.

And here if living proof of a job well done - his brand new jeans sitting on the counter of his kitchen.

I honestly, can't believe he bought a pair - Dad, I have never been more proud of a man and his metamorphosis over a 24 hours period. You're lookin shnazzy.

Happy Labor Day!

2010-09-05T21:57:00.001-05:00

Spending this holiday weeked at my folks house, and loving every minute of it!
Happy Labor Day, everyone!

Look out blog-o-sphere!

2010-09-01T14:32:00.004-05:00

Hubby has a blog!

For those interested, he does a little bit of a better job keeping everyone updated on our current situation and job hunt. So, if dying to know - head on over and check it out.

You should follow his blog!

Live Out Loud

Oh, and just for kicks - here is a picture of us back in the day.

And when I say, "the day," I mean pre-marriage, pre-baby, pre-responsibility driven days. Maybe that is why we look so well rested.

What a hunk.

Just an average Monday

2010-08-30T16:11:00.002-05:00

Dear husband,

I am so sorry that the pile of laundry that is overflowing onto our bedroom floor was not touched today.

And I am sorry that there are half eaten bowls of cereal still sitting in the sink from breakfast this morning.

Oh, and that smell - the trash needs to be taken out.

Yes, that is raw chicken sitting on our counter. It was intended to be the main dish of a gourmet meal tonight - but you are getting Peanut Butter and Jelly instead.

When you came home from lunch today - sorry that meal was not prepared, and you reheated leftovers from last Friday. Or was it last Monday? Yikes.

That smell? I told you to take the trash out. You already did? Oh, yeah, its me. I haven't showered today and I am wearing the aroma of peas and sweet potatoes on my shirt.

It's really not my fault.

I mean, I started to unload the dishwasher, and I attempted to fold some laundry, and I even was on my way to the bathroom to brush my hair - but I got interrupted.

One little cutie-pa-tootie refused to nap today.

He is in the throws of his sixth tooth and he absolutely refused to give his mama a break.

I seriously considered sitting in the middle of the floor and throwing a pity party. And it even crossed my mind to put him in his jumper and attempt to check ONE thing off my to-do list.

But, instead, I spent the entire day cuddling him, rocking him, and singing his favorite tunes. Don't worry though, I savored every moment.

So the laundry will have to wait. The dishes will still be there tomorrow. And the peanut butter is in the pantry.

It has been a crazy day, but I'm sure one day, I will beg for days like today.

Thanks for understanding.

Love, Your darling wife

If all the rain drops where sippy cups and sippy cups

2010-08-28T21:46:00.003-05:00

Hi, my name is Meredith, and I am an addict.

The first step is just admitting, right?

Well, then consider me on the road to recovery.

Unfortunately, there is no patch for this addiction, because I am addicted to sippy cups.

Yep, you heard me right - sippy cups. I mean seriously, there are so many, I am embarrassed to show you proof, but I heard that is step 2.

I don't know what it is about sippy cups, but I just keep buying them. I blame it on the manufacturers, really. I mean, they make them so bright and colorful. Not to mention the assortment of kinds - straws, spouts, sips - I mean, they all appeal to me for different reasons.

And then I see a totally different one that has really neat handles, and I just have to try it. It is getting so bad. Dave Ramsey has seriously considered putting a row in my budget graph entitled, "sippy cup allowance."

Let me show you some of my favorites.

First, there is the Safe Sippy.

Honestly, I originally bought this because of the novelty of it. It was the first stainless steel sippy cup - which is oh so environmentally friendly and health conscious. Plus, nobody else had one of these.

And it is very important to have sippy cups that are different that everyone else. First of all, because it eliminates the mix-up of sippies in the church nursery; and secondly, because my kids are way to cool to be carrying what every other kid is carrying.

I'm only kidding. Sorta.

Then, there is the "sqatty straw cup" - as my husband and I refer to it.

It is perfect for little hands and has been an excellent first sippy for all my kiddos. The straw thing is genious for little ones. The tipping requires too much coordination, and it is often too heavy for them to hold upright anyway -so this works perfect!

And then, my Camelbak spout sippys.

These probably top the list of favorites. They Do.Not.Spill. which is absolutely amazing. I mean, that is almost as important as the cute factor. I put these in my kids lunch boxes and have zero spills. Not to mention, they are still BPA free and tough as bricks. My kids drop them hourly, and not a single crack. Plus, aren't they so cute?

Wow, I think introducing you to my favorite may have just fueled my addiction.

I am resisting the urge to get on Amazon this very moment and research the newest and greatest.

Wow, that is sad. Don't tell anyone I said that.

Please don't tell me I am alone in my crazy addiction of an inanimate object of my child's.

Someone relieve me of my solidarity.

Someone tell me you share my pain.

Someone. Anyone?

Hello?

The Cut

2010-08-14T16:53:00.003-05:00

As my faithful readers can tell you, most of my blog posts are feel-good, light-hearted, and fun-loving. I like to chronicle the life of my three little children and bring a smile to the face of whomever might read its content. I like to bring to light the joys of my life and the occasions that surround them. I like my posts to be filled with glee.

THIS, however, is not one of those posts.

Nope. I would pretty much say this post is anything but feel good, light-hearted, slaptastic fun.

You see, it was only a few days ago, after leaving my children in the loving care of their daddy, that I came home to this...

Now, you are probably thinking what I am thinking - Ellie Kate cut her sister's hair. Well, you'd be wrong.

Thought #2 - Ellie Kate cut her own hair? Wrong-O.

Thought #3 - Ellie Kate cut Stone's hair? You are halfway right.

Don't waist your time thinking it was Peyton. Nope, my precious baby boy got his hair chopped from his perfect little head by his majorly-in-trouble, never-allowed-to-touch-scissors, going-to-be-reminded-for-the-rest-of-his-life daddy.

His hair was perfect. It has these teeny-tiny curls that wrapped perfectly around his little head and would make any girl envious.

Now, when I can see past the tears, I see an almost bald, no more curls, baby boy.

"What were you thinking?!?"

"You better go find so super glue immediately."

"What? Are you trying to get him enlisted in the army?"

"Just call me Delilah, and you better be sleeping with one eye open tonight."

These were just a few of the comments I managed to mutter as I was sobbing hysterically while clutching his bag of locks close to my heart.

Sure, he might be smiling, but I sure wasn't. Oh man, I can't even bear to look.

In honor of the lost locks, I thought I would post a picture from the 'pre-cut' era.

Rest in peace, sweet curls that I loved.

I am only choosing to discuss their heinous act, because I am sure that someday I will stop crying about it.

Someday I will admit that it was only hair.

Someday I will concur that Ben had good intentions at heart.

Someday I will say that I overreacted.

Someday, however, is NOT today.