Ryan & Kristin

Called

2011-06-09T09:19:00.002-04:00

WOW! It’s been a long time since I’ve written here. I have this one serious post then I have tons of fun blog post to get up here hopefully by the first of next week!!!

Well, where have I been? For the year of 2010 I heard God calling me home. I tried to ignore him, but he just got louder. So for 2011 I am obeying. I am staying home- spending priceless time with my party of 5.

You see, I believe I was called to my husband. In bible school when I was about 12, my teacher told us we should pray for our future husband. She probably had no idea that any of us actually would, but I did. Not every day, but often I prayed that God would send my husband to me and that he would be so in love with God that that love would spill over into a love for me. Did it keep me from ever being heartbroken as a teenager? No. But, it did change the way I dated- I dated with purpose. My purpose was to please God with my choice; I wanted my will and his will to match.

In the end, I was called to Ryan. What a life we have had! I have almost been with him ½ of my life. He is my other ½ in so many ways so it makes me sad to say that for so long I had separated myself from him. Not literally, but there was me and God, me and my friends, me and my work/obligations/Bible studies, me and my kids, me and my family and me and Ryan.

What? Am I so comfortable with him that I just assume he’s ok being in last place? Is it ok that he always gets whatever is leftover of me?

No- it’s not ok. And even more than that- it’s not ok to ignore God when you can hear him say- “GO HOME”.

So…. I went home- to my husband. Not to my kids, specifically to my husband, falling back under his leadership and guidance. Yeah, I know this sounds a little 1950ish, but submission is the will of God for wives. Wow- it’s hard, especially in our society, but submitting to Ryan brings me more safety and security than the entire United States Armed Forces.

And….

We have had the best time. We have worked on community service projects together, taken over leadership of a community group, spent time with my Grandmother (who, by the way is getting closer and closer to meeting Jesus), GONE ON DATES, gone on trips, in the process of going through Tres Dias, and in less than 2 weeks we are going on a CRUISE- without children!

What has my obedience done for our marriage? Well, I already knew I was married to the sweetest man on earth because no matter how busy I was and how little time I spent with him he NEVER complained. So, really could it get any better, cloud he get any kinder? All I can say is my God is so sweet to me, he has called me to this man that I swear I do not deserve. Ryan continues to want to please me, he keeps buying me gifts and taking me out. If he keeps it up I may never stray again. As far as God and I are concerned, we are finally at peace. By staying focused on God, soaking him up, and growing in his grace- I will be good for my husband. I heard God call me home, listened to him, and obeyed him. In case you don’t know, whenever you obey God- no matter how hard it is- the reward is ALWAYS GREAT! Greatness is what Ryan and I have and GREAT is our future together.

Ephesians 5:23-32

For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.

Fast

2010-10-17T14:52:00.003-04:00

O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live, and in you name I will lift up my hands. Psalm 63:1-4

The Holy Spirit has been using this verse in the past month or so to speak to me.

It’s no secret that I love to worship! If I could be someone from the bible I would be King David - at least right now. I love to sing loudly and dance with my girls in the car. Sometime in the grocery store when I am saving money for our family I want to just give a little shout out to the Big Man. Or when Ryan and I just don’t think there is “enough” money and the King of our checkbook turns a dime into a dollar I want to offer praise to Him. I do usually- some people may think I am crazy or insane. That’s what David’s wife thought of him, but it didn’t stop him from dancing in the streets and it won’t stop me either. So if the nurse that walked in on me praying prayers of thanksgiving over LB in the ER when her fever broke thinks I’m crazy- it’s ok because I know who broke that fever and wasn’t her!

Oddly enough I can’t get enough of him. Not that that is odd- it’s just that no matter how much time I spend with Jesus I still end up wanting more of him. I want to be so close to him that my His thoughts are my thoughts, His words are my words, my heart is in sync with His, His burdens are my burdens.

I am not spending as much time with him as I did this summer and I know that is why the Holy Spirit is speaking to me so consistently. I know that God is jealous of my job, my students, my children, my husband, my friends, my house, my “stuff”, anything that separates me from him. He longs for me to be with Him and I long to be with Him as well.

I told a friend of mine a few weeks ago that I just want to go off to a desert somewhere and be alone with Jesus. She suggested I at least bring a hammock. Though it’s a good idea it’s not practical for my life.

So I am fasting.

I struggle with telling people that I fast because people are curious and ask a lot of questions. I understand that so here is a great website with resources. I mostly struggle with people knowing because it is such a private and sacrificial affair between Jesus and me that I don’t like to share the experience with others.

If you have never experienced fasting you should try it. People fast from all kinds of things, but I find food works best for me. I do caution against fasting from just anything. If you fast from the internet and then don’t spend the time you would normally spend on the internet with Jesus then you aren’t really fasting. If you have fasted in the past and really didn’t get what all the hoopla is about perhaps you weren’t fasting from something you can’t live without, which drives you to the feet of Jesus. Which is where going without food leads me- at the sweet feet of Jesus! Exactly where I need to be right now- on my knees in worship, where life becomes clear and direction becomes irrelevant because just knowing that Jesus is the bread and water of my life is enough!

When I finish my fast I will be renewed and refreshed so watch out I might start sing praises out loud in the Grocery store or the girls and I might take our “car worship” out onto hwy 365 for all to see!

Laughing With Our Little Ladies #2

2010-10-07T15:57:00.005-04:00

This past weekend we were out of town for a wedding that Ryan and the twins were in. This is the last wedding we will have to participate in for awhile. Thank goodness.

Anyways, we stayed at a hotel where they had continental breakfast so on Saturday morning the twins and I went downstairs to grab a bite and fix something for Brennan and Ryan. While I was preparing food for the masses Bree and Blythe were watching Good Morning America. As I sat down I halfway heard the commercial on TV, but I COMPLETELY saw Bree’s eyes widen with curiosity and wonder.

Yes, in less than 60 seconds the propaganda of our great society took my daughters mind to a place where I am not sure I would have ever been ready for it to go. And as if I was watching in slow motion the question flopped out of her mouth before I could distract her. Great! Now, Blythe is intrigued by Bree’s question and they are both looking at me awaiting an answer.

“A disease. Yes, a disease that people don’t talk about.”

Well, hopefully that was the end of that.

But, I would like to thank the makers of Cialis. You allowed me to have another opportunity to think on the fly, creatively avoiding a conversation with my children. It’s nice to know this particular mothering skill is sharp in case of an emergency. However, I could have gone my whole life without hearing my 4 year old say, “… erectile dysfunction”.

Here are a few pics from latter on that day...

Football Lesson #1

2010-10-05T16:23:00.002-04:00

Oppps I thought I posted this already!

PASS HANDOFF and PITCH???

Ok I have it- no big deal. Expect when they hand off or pitch; sometimes I don’t see where the ball goes. Thank God for DVR and replays. WOW- that is something I never thought I would say!! I mean maybe about the DVR recording my “stories”, but not about football.

*BOUNS LESSON- you can’t win football games on field goals ALONE

**BOUNS LESSON 2- Well, maybe you can if you toss in a couple of TD’s for good measure!

GO GA TECH!

99.9%

2010-09-28T09:20:00.002-04:00

So a couple of weeks ago Ryan and I celebrated out 7 year anniversary- yes a milestone totally worthy of it’s own blog post. However, right before I was about to post I decided to take “the test”- yep that one. Before I go any further I have to tell you that Ryan and I were not trying, in fact I have an IUD in place to prevent such an occurrence. Are we totally opposed to having a 4th? Na, but the birth of our 3rd is in our recent past and we are not mentally or physically ready. Are we totally sure we want a 4th? Na, life is finally starting to settle since #3 has reached the 1 year milestone and thought of backtracking so soon is a little unsettling.

Negative- the test was negative. The results were however were irrelevant to a women who’s been in “that” condition a total of 7 times. There is absolutely no mistaking the symptoms.

So on the first day of our 8th year of marriage I take test #2- positive. See I told you- positive. There was no mistaking- this is really going to be my 8th time to be in “that” condition.

What are the odds?-
Less than 8 in 1,000 to be exact. (According to the Mirena pamphlet.)

I could buy 1,000 lotto tickets and none of them would be winners, but Ryan and I can bat eyes at each other and I can get lucky!

I really should take the time to blog about the day Bree and Blythe were conceived- it’s pretty comical- much like the rest of our lives. But, anyways on that day the nurse told me that Ryan was the biggest depositor she had seen in a long time and ALL of his swimmers were usable. –APARENTLY- something she doesn’t get to see very often. CLEARLY- this must still be the case since they seem to have bypassed the plastic thinga magigger in their way.

Subsequently, I took 10 more test all of which were positive. ***Note- The Equate brand pregnancy tests are very good at picking up the slightest traces of hcg.

Being in the state of shock I was in my weekend was flooded in tears and anticipation for Tuesday- the day my new blood work would be back.

It is over- I am no longer in “that” condition.

Perception- really is all that changed.
I am ready for #4?
Will it just be #4 or could it mean #4, #5, and #6?
God must really want me to have #4 if he knocked down the little plastic barricades.
Do I want #4 or do I want to wear a belt again? -I haven’t worn one since #1 & #2 came along.
Can my “dumb” cervix make it through #4? –I mean my incompetent cervix.
Can I raise #4?
Can I be faithful in prayer for #4?
Do I have what it takes to teach #4 to love Jesus?
Will I have what it takes to discipline consistently and gently?
I might actually have to drive a mini van…
Will Ryan and I be able to give #4 the opportunities they deserve?
What does God require of a mother of 4 little disciples?
Will #4 make my butt grow like #1, 2, and 3 did?
I just want a boob job and a tummy tuck- can they do that when they do my c-section?
I thought we were going to start doing mission trips as a family- I mean I wanted you to send us out God!!
Is this home my mission field? Or is that what cop-outs resort to? –“Oh my home is my mission.”
Maybe my mission is being a mother- maybe our children are your “chosen generation”…

Perception. Is that all that has changed or have our hearts changed, mine and Ryan’s?
I can’t help, but to think of all the ladies in the bible who prayed for children- Sarah, Hannah, Rachel and how I used to relate to them. How many doctors told me my endometriosis was too severe and I may have problems conceiving. Each of these biblical mothers desired children and in God’s time they were blessed and blessed abundantly.

Abundance- that is the God I serve, a God of abundance.

So what does that mean for our family? I don’t know- ask God. But, right now- we are a family of five (that still use bc) who worship a God of abundance.

Quotes from Ronnie Green ICU

2010-08-31T15:16:00.004-04:00

My dad started having chest pains last Thursday and after I gave him 2 baby aspirin he headed to HCMC ER. Following some abnormal test results he was sent to the Ronnie Green Heart Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

It wasn’t until he arrived at RGHC that he actually had a small heart attack. The first couple of days were bad for him and scary for us. After his cath they told us that he would need open heart surgery- which leads me to today.

I am warming the floor here in the waiting room because my family and our friends have overtaken this small uninviting room. Our loved ones have turned this cold and sterilely decorated room into a warm inviting niche inside this big hospital. This out pouring of hospitality, love and support has created a sense of comfort and peace for my family.

With that said instead of sitting here driving myself crazy as I wait I have decided to document some of the better moments of the last 5 days. These are just a collection of short humorous moments with my dad. Enjoy!

* Dad will not remove his shorts or empty his pockets, which contain his pocket knife, wallet, cell phone, keys, and miscellaneous notes. Mom finally got him to give her his cell phone so he says to me, “SHE confiscated my phone, I cain’t call nobody”. When he finally sent mom his wallet by my brothers he had rubber banded it together (so nothing would fall out). It wasn’t until the next day when they took him to get his cath that he gave up the shorts.

* I called mom to bring his cpap machine because his oxygen would dip when he was sleeping. He yells out, “NOOOOOO! I don’t need that, this machine over here only beeped one time last night.” I respond, “that’s right dad because you were wearing the nasal cannula, but during your nap it has gone off continuously and your nurse asked if you had your cpap with you”. He stiffs up and says, “awe hell- that damn machine beeps all the time. The damn thing is just broken”. RIGGGGGHHHHHTTTTT

* Jonathan drank a Red Bull while visiting Dad at the later visitation time. When he finished he left it on Dad’s tray. When the nurse came in Jonathan said while pointing to the empty can, “hey, do think it would be ok if my Dad had another one, they are his favorite”. The long pause was followed by burst of laughter.

* One morning the nurse (who was male) came in to introduce himself, Dad responded, “you know I was trained to kill, I spent 25 years perfecting the art”.

* The nurse told him he needed another blood test, when dad heard the cart rolling down the hallway he said, “here comes the vampires, those damn ladies have about drained me dry”.

* This one is a quote that was repeated many many times, “this food ain’t worth shit”. –Steve Patton

* To a nurse dad said, “hey- you know I just got out of the hospital. They finally let me have sharp objects about 2 weeks ago.” Seriously Dad, some of these people don’t know you are joking.

* I told Dad I had spoke with Dr. Garrett. He said, “I hope you told him I’m ok and I ain’t through giving him hell yet”.

Some of you don’t know my Dad that well and let me tell you- you are missing out! He is the funniest man! So full of humor and life and piss and vinegar. I love him to pieces. How could I not- he was the first man that ever loved me.

As much as we have laughed, today was also marked by tears and fears, both of which we tossed at the feet of Jesus. We are free of those burdens and are looking forward to the morning.

** The sweetest moment of the day had to have been the moment my Dad and his brother did the manly head hug, choked back sobs, and cracked out the words, “I love you brother”.

*** Update on my grandmother. She is still not doing well. She is at home, but remains sick.

"All I Ask For is 3 Months"

2010-08-25T17:40:00.004-04:00

It has started.

Football Season.

Ryan is a LOVER of football! All football from little league to Pro. He has a favorite college team, but really he holds no bisas so long as the team is not playing Georgia Tech. Yes, Tech is his favorite team and if you really knew him it wouldn’t surprise you.

As much as he loves football and is a sport fanatic in general; deep down he is a dork. That’s right a dork and he won’t deny it. He hides it well, but don’t be fooled by his charade. He was always the teacher’s pet, a title he is actually proud of. (I can’t tell you how often his old teachers come up to me and say, “I just loved having Ryan in my class. He was one of the best students I’ve ever tought”. –GAG!) This Teacher’s Pet continues to be a lover of math and physics; pocket protectors and calculators.

His gift of ingenuity and his passion for math naturally leads him to favor Georgia Tech over the other obvious choice. But, really unless UGA is playing GT it doesn’t matter he truly loves the game.

It is the dawn of football season and he’s already started saying, “all I ask for is 3 months, you can have me the other 9- I just need 3 months”. That is what he says, what he actually means is, “I want you to sit on the couch while I sit in ‘my chair’ and watch at least 3 games with me on Saturday and Sunday and at least 1 maybe 2 games with me if it’s a week night. Make sure the kids don’t bug me and that I am only required to have miminal participation in their lives. I require a pantry that is well stocked with munchies and we need to have enough ‘Daddy Cokes’ on hand for any major upsets or seat clenchers. OH, the most important thing for you to do is remain QUITE- DO NOT under any circumstance ask questions reguarding the rules of the game”.

I really want Ryan to have the desires of his heart, but so far in our relationship I have only been able to fulfill part of his request. He does watch a lot of football durning season and I am pretty good at keeping the kids out of his hair and the drinks and snacks are easy enough. It’s the last part that I’m not so good at- sit quite and pretend you like what you are seeing and that you totally understand it.

I don’t have any reason in specific for not loving football. In fact- for as long as I can remember football has been a part of my life. I remember toddling around the practice field at Central Gwinnett High School while my older brother practiced. I remember dancing under the staduium lights in my tutu and ballet shoes on Friday nights at CGHS. I remember hot chocolate and snuggling with my dad on the black and gold bleachers to keep warm. I remember my dad and his friends getting ready to tailgate at Georgia Tech games. I remember on Saturdays the T.V. was forever locked on games. I remember my baby brother sporting his blue and orange jersery like it was a Gucci suit. I remember my mom organizing booster club meetings and t-shirt sales. I remember the stinky pads, cleats, gym clothes, and grass satins. I remember traveling to Rhodes College to watch one of my good friends play ball. I remember taking pictures of my parents and little brother on senior night at Habersham Central High School. I remember watching Ryan play through googly eyes and then trying not to gag from his stench when he wanting his after game hug (I had no problem with hugs after he showered ;)). With all these wonderful memories one would think I would love football or at least autumn. But, trouth be told I just don’t enjoy the game like Ryan does and actually I am really more of a summertime girl.

*Note- I did not say I don’t like football, I said I don’t love football. I think some of my dislike of the sport comes from my lack of football comprehension (Ryan would consider that a learning deficiency.) So in an effort to fulfill Ryan’s request in full. I have been doing some reading and youtube watching. We will see soon enough if my studies have paid off. Though I don’t believe football will ever be one of my passions, at least I might be able to keep up WITHOUT asking questions.

So to my Helluva of an Engineer – there will be plenty of clear whisky, your daughters will be dressed in white and gold- they will cheer on the brave and bold. To hell with Georgia- drink to all good fellows who come from far and near –You, ramblin', gamblin', hell of an engineer.

I hope the next 3 months are all you expect them to be.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO JACKETS!

Below is the song I wanted to have playing, but I guess it's too new. Anyway, you can listen to the video, but you may have to turn my music off on the side- something a few of you won't mind doing I am sure. ;)

Kenny Chesney - "The Boys Of Fall": "Hemingway's Whiskey"

REST

2010-08-18T16:03:00.002-04:00

My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. Psalm 62:1

I know my post have been few and far between lately; my life has been insanely busy. As full of activity as life has been this spring and summer I have held on to a promise God has been whispering to me- “I will give you rest soon”.

So in my mind I assumed the rest would come during the vacation “I” planned- 7 days of rest…

Here are the pictures from our “restful” days-

Well, you know and I know all that fun did not come about without loads of laboring. I was beginning to become angry with God for not providing me with the “rest” he promised and I so desperately needed. Since we were on vacation shouldn’t he have worked it in this week?

On the last day Ryan and my dad packed the car and my mom watched Brennan as I suited up the twins and we caught one more wave before we left.

It was early and the beach was empty so I placed my chair at the edge of the water. The girls danced to the rhythm of the ocean. They picked up shells and marveled at the mighty work of God. Blythe stared at the water with me saying, “Wow Mom! God did a great job with this beach and the ocean! He made this just for me just for today”. All I could say is, “yes, yes he did”.

As they played I searched for my camera or my cell to take their pictures as they played- I left them in the room. I had no idea how I was going to remember this moment. I wanted so badly not to forget their pony tails swinging back and forth as they ran in and out of the waves; their polka dot bikinis and their Coppertone fannies; their giggles when the waves splashed their faces; the mountain of shells they piled in the sand; the sound of their voices filled with excitement; and the prayer of thanksgiving they each offered up to our Marvelous and Wonderful creator.

Then, the Holy Spirit whispered a secret in my ear. I was rested- in that short outing to the beach I was rested and I was enjoying a special moment with my sweet girls. The Holy Spirit was telling me I didn’t need a photo to remember. It was an experience that will be forever etched in the minds of myself and my daughters. A moment created by God, in an ocean created by God, on a beach created by God, with my daughters who were created by God. It was BEAUTIFUL!

2010-07-01T09:13:00.005-04:00

Breannan,

You turned ONE today. I know you do not completely understand all that is going on because you keep looking at me like, “mom, why do these people keep saying ‘happy birthday’ to me and mom, could you please take the stupid crown off my head?” Well, no my love I can not take the “stupid crown” off your head. I want everyone to know it’s your birthday; I want them to know so they can celebrate you with us.

Brennan, you were born one year ago today on your Dad’s birthday. (You were the best gift he has ever gotten!) You have changed so much over the past year and you will continue to change and evolve as the years past by. There are a few things that I want you to understand over the years-

Know that I will always love you and you will always be my sweet love.

I want you to know that you were created in the image of God- beautiful in sight and in spirit.

Know that you are highly favored by God and that he has great plans for you.

Understand that God choose for us to be together- our relationship is not one of choice, but appointment. You were chosen by God to be my daughter and I was chosen by God to be your mother- I am blessed because of his choice and I pray I serve him well!

I want you to know that happiness is circumstantial, but having a content spirit will give you lasting joy.

Understand that God longs for you to desire him- so soak him up in worship, in prayer and in study.

Realize that God took the greatest risk in the history by giving each of us a free will- he did this so we could choose to be in a relationship with him- choose him, he will never fail you.

I want you to know that you are a smart girl and your intelligence will continue to develop over the years, but wisdom has nothing to do with your cognitive skills; wisdom is comes from God- so pray for wisdom and discernment.

Know that you are an extension of the love of Christ- people will know him because his love spills out of you.

Realize that when you choose your husband his first love should be Jesus- he can not truly love you if he does not love Jesus- God is love.

Understand that being in a relationship with God should convict your spirit to be obedient to his laws and commandments- he created these so that we can be close to him. Again Brennan, God desires you.

I want you to realize that your life will be filled with celebrations, successes, and accomplishments; it will also be filled with uncertainty, disappointments, and trails- all of these things are a part of God’s greater plan so be faithful and graceful through them all.

Know that God knows you will not always understand his greater plan- the disciples didn’t always either, they questioned him and he knows there will be times that you will too.

I want you to know that in one short year you have already fulfilled part of God’s BIG plan- you have been such a blessing to me- when I hold you it’s like holding onto a tiny piece of God’s love- it’s overwhelming!

Lastly, know that you have brought me closer to God. I want you to see me glorify God in ALL things, I want you to know God’s love through me, I want you to see me choosing to be in a relationship with him, I want you to see and hear me pray, I want you see me studying his word and laws, I want you to see me being obedient to his commandments, I want you to see me become wiser over the years, I want you to see your dad and I have a strong marriage, I want you to feel my content spirit, I want you to look at me and say, “my mom is highly favored by God and created in his image”, and I want you to see me completely lost in worship of our Great and Mighty God.

Brennan, I pray that I serve our God well through you! He has entrusted me with his child- I pray that you are his greatest accomplishment!

Happy 1st birthday my sweet love!

Love,
Your Mother

Laughing with Our Little Ladies

2010-06-29T21:19:00.002-04:00

So I’ve decided to journal some of the sassiness, craziness, and cuteness of our girls. My grandmother tells me that, “everyone’s kettle is the blackest”. You may agree with her philosophy and think my stories are not all that great and a little annoying, but just don’t tell me. So here it goes-

“Laughing with Our Little Ladies”

This afternoon while Brennan was napping I decided to take the girls outside with me to weed the flower beds and the garden. We were weeding the last section of flowers when I decided to cut some hydrangeas and calla lilies for our house. The girls held the flowers since my bucket was full of veggies from the garden.
Blythe held onto her bundle tightly stating, “I’m holding mine like a bouquet, Mom. One day I am going to have a husband and I will pick flowers and he will cook the steaks”.
Ummmm, is this what she thinks Ryan and I are like??? Hehehehehe- all steaks and flowers.
Bree pipes in as we are about to go inside, “yeah, I would marry Hayden [Gailey] if he would quit running from me”.
Ummmm, once again I don’t know how to respond…. so I try, “baby one day he will”.
Again her next comment leaves me speechless, “well mom, I can’t wait forever”.

Mama’s Baby

2010-06-23T21:54:00.007-04:00

Jonathan Hester Patton completed our family on July 12, 1982! I was just 14 months old when he swooped in and stole my glory! After his arrival my only mark of fame in our family is that I am the “only girl”. Our family of 5 was now perfect!

The 3 of us have the best mom in the world. She has an incredible way of making each one of us feel special; she has never believed she has to give each of us the same thing, but instead she gives each of us what we need when we need it. Expect for one thing- her prayers we are each prayed for religiously and have been since before our births.

Though my mom has never showed one of us more affection than the other we all know where she stands when it comes to her “baby boy”. He still goes home on Saturday mornings for pancakes- homemade- not Bisquick! He still sleeps with the same blue blanket from his crib. He still gets his “own special pan” of banana pudding. He still melts her heart. He still has beautiful brown curls and wide and curious blue eyes. He still has his tiny little hand wrapped around her finger.

And she is still his whole world. He laps up her banana pudding and stacks her pancakes high. He demands that his friends, his wife and complete strangers respect her. He makes choices in his life based on her wisdom. He loves being “Mama's baby”.

And she loves that he is her "baby"! She will let nothing- I mean NOTHING- not even prision gates keep her from him. She will continue to make "his" favorite foods and repair his blanket. She will never stop praying for him. He will always be her "baby".

This past Saturday JonJon married Casey! It was a beautiful wedding, but this moment stole the night- at least for me.

The mother/son dance…

They were sobbing (and that is understating it)! So everyone else was too! What a special bond!

Disclaimer: My older brother Stephen and my mom have a special relationship because he was an only child for 7 years. My mom and I have our own special relationship because I am the only girl! As much as we tease her about JonJon we each have our own “special things” with her. She is truly a special lady and we are blessed to have her as our mother.

P.S. I added some extra pictures of the day! I made all of these- expect the bride! But I did make the cake and the flowers and the flower girls! ;)

All the photos are by Artistic Images!

Did I breathe… I can’t remember???

2010-05-31T21:25:00.004-04:00

Since Blythe and Bree’s birthday the theme song for our life could be Mozart’s William Tell Overture.

We have celebrated the twins 4th birthday.
We celebrated my 29th birthday.
The girls and I went to my sister-n-laws wedding shower.
We have had visitors from Alamaba.
I’ve hosted a baby shower with some of my other friends.
I went to my brother and his fiancé Casey’s wedding shower.
We celebrated one of our visitor’s birthday; Karoline turned 6!
I celebrated my friend Abigail’s birthday.
Enjoyed fun Cinco De Mayo festivities.
We had 3 Mother’s Day get-togethers.
Saw my sister-n-law & her fiancé Rusty off to the Bahamas where they were married.
I partied with Andrea and our friends for her birthday.
Welcomed visitor’s from New Hampshire.
Prepared for and enjoyed a reception for my sister-n-law Astona and new brother-n-law.

-All of this in less than a month.

Somewhere in all this I have seen God work amazing things in our lives… right down to pennies at times.

Though there is not any end in sight- we still have end of the year parties and graduation, more showers and 1 more wedding. There is comfort, solitude, peace and rest in God. Just knowing that God is the “concertmaster” makes rockin’ out to W.T. Overture a little easier.

****All the photos are by Artistic Images****

2010-05-17T14:33:00.010-04:00

I posted several weeks ago that Blythe and Bree have turned 4, which means they had a PARTY! We’ve been so busy the past couple of weeks that I haven’t had the chance to write about all the fun! We started planning in February; they went back in forth between a tea party and a mermaid party. Finally, the girls settled on a mermaid party, which turned out to be a splash! Since their birthday fell on a Saturday we partied all day.

Their day started early with a message in a bottle from a mermaid, whishing them a happy birthday. Then, we quickly got dressed, so we could have breakfast at Stoney’s with Grandmommy and Granddaddy. Breakfast didn’t take as long as I thought it would- the mermaids were too excited to eat. Instead of eating they spilled their milk on me; consequently we finished up and headed over to the aquatic center to set up for their party. At the aquatic center Blythe and Bree played with their friends and made sand art (with pixie sticks so they could eat it), painted seashells, ate pizza and cake, and of course swam. Needless to say our 4 year old mermaids were waterlogged after that exciting day, but there was no napping once they got home. They talked non-stop and played with all their gifts. Since we still had family in town we ate dinner at El Camp. Then, FINALLY the tide went out and so did the girls.

*****I have to tell*****

Blythe said the sweetest thing to me while we were picking up a few things at Wal-mart the day before the party. I think I melted into a puddle in aisle 7!

Blythe: "mom, lots of moms wouldn't do all this stuff, that's why you are good".
Me: "Thanks; is that your way of saying thank you?"
Blythe: "nope, that's just my way of saying I love you.

Yes, I cried! It’s not very often that our children notice our efforts and especially at 4 years old.

3 Pounds to 30!

2010-04-25T22:44:00.003-04:00

4 years ago yesterday God blessed Ryan and I with our firstborns. Within one minute Ryan and I became parents twice! I remember feeling completely confident that God had chosen that unique moment for them to be born. It was 9 weeks to soon, but perfect all the same.

I wish I could say I was blown away with by their beauty, but I have to be honest! Their skin was like leather, their eyes looked like they were bugging out, Blythe’s nose was squished flat, they squeaked instead of cried, there were parts of their body that were not completely formed and they were tiny- 3lbs 9oz. and 3lbs. 4oz.

Their births enable me to have the unique opportunity to watch them develop and grow outside of my body- all I have to say is our God is an incredible engineer. I have been awe struck by God’s handy work- watching them grow from 3lbs. to 30. What a journey it has been…

They no longer have leathery skin- it is beautiful, smooth, and it smells like sweat, sun screen, cookies, and strawberries.

Their eyes don’t bug out anymore- Underneath the dark umbrella of Bree’s lashes are the prettiest light blue eyes and below Blythe’s eyelashes is a beautiful blue shade with a hint of green.

Blythe’s nose is no longer squashed- her cute little pug nose can sniff out sugar faster than our dog can smell us cooking on the grill.

They no longer squeak- they cry, they scream, they sing, they chatter, and they giggle. I love that their voices are a part of the music in our home.

They are completely formed- and they continue to evolve and change daily and I am honored that God choose me to be the nurturing influence on them.

It seems like yesterday I was visiting with them for the first time in the NICU- lingering at each incubator, staring at the 3 pound lumps inside, longing to touch and hold them. Four years and 30 lbs. later- I linger at their beds at night, I stare at their sweet sleeping faces, and sometimes I snuggle up to them and hold them tight!

What a privilege it has been to be specifically chosen by God to bear his twins, to be a mother to 2 at once. What a unique and special time in mine and Ryan’s life. I am honored that God has entrusted us with these beautiful girls. I pray that we nurture and parent them in a way that is pleasing to him and that he will look on us favorably when our job has been completed.

Triplets???

2010-04-23T00:54:00.010-04:00

As if having a set of twins and a singleton is not enough our family is welcoming a set of triplets- and you guessed it they are all girls. (At least we think!)

Have you passed out yet????

HAHAHA- not human triplets! –DUCKS!

For Easter my brother gave the girls ducks! What seemed like a harmless adventure, an educational experience and just plain fun for the girls has tuned into a lot of work for dear ole’ mom. These cute little critters are actually fluffy pooping machines. The girls named the new additions to our family: fluffy, Laine, and Sarah Grace.

Since the ducks have arrived we have had a few mishaps.

The first being on the day of Brennan’s 9 month check up- yes that’s right I said 9 month. It is just so sad she is growing so fast. Anyways, while I was dressing Brennan, Bree and Blythe were letting their ducks out of the cage. This unfortunate event led to our late arrival at Dr. Garrett’s office. Leave it to the Walls’ crew to through off the good doctor’s schedule. I’m just glad their wasn’t anyone at home to enjoy watching me chase ducks in the driveway- an event I am sure was worthy of deep belly laughs!

The second unfortunate event involving the ducks nearly ended in tragedy. Aunt Astona wanted to see if they could swim so Ryan filled up a bucket in the yard and the girls and my nephew watched the ducks swim. When the ducks looked good and water logged we pulled them out and then…

Sarah Grace fell over. I screamed, “Ryan you killed the duck, get a towel”. Oh crap- her feet stick straight out and she goes stiff! Lord have mercy- we are about to have a ducky funeral! There are bubbles coming out of the nostrils on her beak. All I could think is- how am I supposed to explain this to the girls who are watching wide eyed!

After lots of towel time and the warmth of her sisters, fluffy and Laine, Sarah Grace thawed out and was back to her old self by the next morning.

Since that terrifying night the ducks have had no swim time and Ryan and I are eagerly waiting for their feathers to turn white so we can take them back to my brother. He lives at Lake Hartwell and the ducks will be making the lake their permanent residence as well.

(It looks like the ducks may be as ready to get away from those terrorizing twins as much as I am ready for them to move to the lake!) hehehe ;)

When You Gotta' Go, You Gotta' Go

2010-04-12T10:37:00.004-04:00

I have no pictures to prove this happened, but those of you who know me know it is not outside the relm of possibilities!

Saturday was another busy day at the Walls' home; like always I cramed our day full of fun! Ryan and Bree started the day by going to dump off the recycling and picking up breakfest, then Blythe and I ran to Wal-Mart to print their birthday invites. When I pulled in the driveway Ryan was ready to head out the door again to help his mom set up for his sister's shower. While he was gone I was going to get a quick shower. Since Brennan was napping and the girls were watching The Sound of Music I should have been able to jump in the shower and be out in no time. HAHAHAHAHA

I turned the water on and undressed, then heard what I thought was a door closing, but shurgged it off and continued into the warm water. It was the begining of my 5 minutes of relaxing! -BAM! Lord have mercy- I can't even get 30 seconds.

What was that???

Turn off the water, leap out of the shower, quickly dry off, re-dress, run out of my bedroom.... OH MYGOODNESS!!!!!
There is a tiny white fanny in my face!

Long story short- Bree decided to go outside alone and while she was out there she had to go poop- "werrly werrly bad". So she pooped in the bucket I use when I pull weeds.

Are you kidding me- I can't even get a shower!

Empty Tomb

2010-04-04T18:32:00.009-04:00

Like I said in my last post, I do love Good Friday it is an important day to me and to all of us. However, I also said Sunday deserves celebration and exalting.

Though Good Friday convicts my spirit to offer Jesus deep repentance. I don't want to dewell on the sadness of the day because it is followed by Sunday- Easter Sunday- a day that Jesus conquered death, a day that Jesus conquered Satan.

After two days of morning, I am so full of joy this Easter morning. The tomb is empty and so is my heart- my heart has been emptied of the guilt of my sins. How blessed am I to be free from the burden of death. May I always live my life reflective of an empty tomb~

For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destoryed is death. 1 Cor. 15:25-26
***** Doesn't that just give you chills? -Under his feet! Can't you just see the Son of God stomping on satan?

Below is a video that gives me chills...
***** You may have to pause my music on the side to hear the video.

Torn

2010-04-02T08:28:00.002-04:00

I love Holy Week! Perhaps, it is my favorite week of the year. You might assume it is because of Easter. While I love Easter very much it is not my favorite day during Holy Week; I would have to say Good Friday holds that honor.

People celebrate Good Friday in many different ways or maybe they don’t celebrate it all, instead focusing all their attention on Easter Day. I don’t think there is a right or wrong way to celebrate either nor do I think one should get more glory than the other. It is more of a personal conviction for me.

Every year on this day my heart becomes heavy and laden with guilt. I feel convicted of my sins- in such a way that I want to weep. I want to fall at the feet of Jesus and cry for forgiveness. I am so full of sorrow over the death of my Savior. I feel so much guilt for the suffering he endured for me. I want to do something to right my wrongs, but there is nothing. Nothing I can do, but offer myself daily to him.

For the next two days I will morn over my sins. I will weep because my sins caused the suffering of Christ. My sins mocked him. My sins placed a crown of thorns on his head. My sins stabbed him in the side. My sins humiliated him. My sins undressed him. My sins jabbed nails through his hands and feet. My sins did that. My sins.

You might think this is a little over kill for Good Friday- I know it is followed by the resurrection of Christ and that deserves celebration and exalting. But, I believe Good Friday deserves more than a quick tear over the death of a righteous and decent guy. Jesus is far more than a righteous and decent guy, he is the Son of God. Good Friday is the day the greatest sacrifice was ever made. The day- the sinless son of God was killed for my sins. The day- God sacrificed his son for the sins of the world. Tell me this day- this Good Friday doesn’t deserve more than a quick tear. Tell me it doesn’t deserve deep repentance.

When it is finished- when this day is over I will be left with quite morning. Then, Sunday, Easter Sunday- celebration!

It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:44-46

God Bless all my blog readers (all 4 of you-hehehe!) on Good Friday and Easter!

G.R.I.T.S.

2010-03-17T16:40:00.008-04:00

Most Southerners know grits are a yummy breakfast food and can be enhanced with a variety of condiments; cheese, sugar, bacon, butter, garlic, etc… We also know that G.R.I.T.S. is an acronym for girls raised in the South.

Having 3 daughters it is important to me that they grow up loving their southern home, but are knowledgeable of life outside these hills. Living in what many refer to as “God’s Country” it can be easy to close ourselves off to the rest of the world. I mean really we have it all in this little corner of North Georgia; beautiful scenery, colorful autumns, cold and snowy winters, warm springs, blazing HOT summers, supportive community, fabulous churches, little league, church softball, vegetable gardens, swimming pools, fresh lemonade, fried foods, BBQ, high school football, farms, sweet tea, cornbread, magnolia trees, and friendly loving people. Like all good southern mamas I try to expose the little ladies in our home to an array of cultures and offer an assortment of life experiences to ensure they grow up to be cultured and educated people. Loretta Lyn said it best, “You’ve got to continue to grow, or you’re just like last night’s cornbread- stale and dry.”

Well, it looks like I have failed at trying to avoid the little ladies of this house becoming G.R.I.T.S.

When these fine ladies showed up for their breakfast what else could I do, but pull out their great-grandmother’s china. After all they had “put on their faces” (that means they put on their make-up for any non-southern readers I might have) and gotten “all dolled up” (that means dressed up and accessorized) for breakfast. Boy! Ole’ Boy! Did they bring their southern accents and manners! Their “thank you’s” and “yes ma’ma’s were dripping from their lips like molasses this morning. Blythe was affectingly cooing to Brennan, “darlin’ give me some sugah” and the way it rolled off her tongue made my heart melt. Then, I cringed! Do I sound like that? Do I say those phrases and words?

As much as I deny that I have a southern accent my children are proof that I can “drawl” out vowels and add syllables as much as any other Southern lady. Hmmm, Southern lady… that is the cliché I was trying to avoid.

Though I know the truth about southern women, many people believe they are frail, simple, and ignorant. I don’t want people to think my children are frail, simple, and ignorant. The truth is Southern ladies are strong, weathered, enduring, hospitable and loyal, we retain pride and dignity, we are educated and intelligent, and we love God and our life. Being born below the Mason Dixon Line does not make you a Southern lady, being a Southern lady is more of a character trait or a combination of character traits.

So what do I do now? What do I do with these G.R.I.T.S. of mine?

Embrace it!

They are G.R.I.T.S. and they love grits. They are as beautiful as their grandmother’s pearls. They are as full of goodness and truth as their great-grandmother’s bible. They smell as good as magnolia blossoms. They are as strong as my iron skillet. They are as sweet as their daddy’s tea.

They have my heart! And Lawd ‘mercy I’d have a mess of ‘em if I could.

Don't Knock It Till You Try It!

2010-03-09T22:56:00.007-05:00

Ok so I am starting to realize that the “type” of church I attend might be controversial in the small North Georgia community I live in. I have to admit that Ryan and I were a little hesitant about coming to church at River Point, but we both felt lead to try it out. In the end we realized that God was leading our family there and the past 3 years have been amazing. We were happy with the church we were attending before and we still love and miss the sweet friends we have there. Though we miss them very much we had to be obedient to God.

Through our obedience I have found that my relationship with Jesus has become deeper and more passionate. At this phase in my life I am realizing that being with Jesus should be natural and easy and that I should soak him up every chance I get.

Worshiping God has become such a natural part of my life. The girls and I like to rock out in the morning on the way to school and nothing brings tears to my eyes faster than the sight of them in the rear view mirror lifting their arms in the air and shouting praises to his name! I also love to worship in the morning when I am getting ready for my day- mostly I sing- Sing Sing Sing by Chris Tomlin as I dance around the bathroom. Worshiping Jesus should bring you to life and fill you up with the Holy Spirit so that all you want to do is sing, sing, sing.

I have heard all kinds of questions about my church- do you speak in tongues? Do you you guys dance around and shout? Is your music always loud? Do you guys have drug addicts and guy people at your church? Well…

I have never heard anyone speak in tongues, but it is biblical so I won’t say it will never happen because Jesus says it can. Yes, we worship Jesus and sometimes we lift our hands and yes, the music is loud. Yes, we invite all sinners in our church even you! Hey, I go there and I am no better than any other Christian- I just try to be like Jesus and hoping that when I see Jesus face to face he will look at me and say, “well done my good and faithful daughter”.

I was so moved by the new series that Pastor Kevin started on Sunday that I decided to copy the notes that I twitted onto my blog. If you would like to listen to the sermon in it’s entirety you can here.

The way we worship at our church is BIBICAL! The way I worship is BIBICAL! The time you spend with God, the time you worship God should leave you so full of the Holy Spirit that you want nothing more than to lift your hands and spin around and you should want to sing, sing, sing and shout his name. God is so much bigger than the air you breathe that when you breathe him in you should exhale him out. Worship should leave you excited and motivated and strengthened.

New series: Worship Matters

2 Samuel 6:1-13 David just wanted to worship God and it went way wrong so they began to study Exodus 24:14-16.

God says when my presence is going to move it's going to be carried on the backs of men.

Worship that matters is defined by God's word!

Why do we worship at riverpointchurch.com the way we do?

Psalm 63:4 so we lift our hands!

I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.

1 Timothy 2:8 so we lift our hands!

I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.

2 Samuel 22:50 so we sing!

Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name.

1 Chronicles 15:16 so we use instruments!

David told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments: lyres, harps and cymbals.

Psalm 33:3 so we sing current songs, play skillfully, & shout for joy!

Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.

Psalm 47:1 so we cry out in joy!

Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy.

1 Chronicles 16:9 we tell stories!

Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.

1 Chronicles 15:22 so we are excellent and skillful.

Kenaniah the head Levite was in charge of the singing; that was his responsibility because he was skillful at it.

Psalm 46:10 so we are still!

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

2 Samuel 6:14 so we dance!

David, wearing a linen ephod, danced before the LORD with all his might,

Where the spirit of the Lord is there is FREEDOM!

You & I were made to worship so SING SING SING!

You & I were made to worship so lift your hands and spin around, see this light that I have found.

*****Note*****
I feel the same way about church as I do about schools- there are options because there is a "right" place for every family! My parents don't enjoy the same type of worship as Ryan and I, but they also don't knock it or frown upon us. So like I said- don't knock it till you try it and if you don't like it keep your mouth shut! It works for my family and other families like ours. We like the culturally relevant and current worship at our church and I can’t refute that the spirit of the Lord is in that place (RPCC) or my car or my bathroom…

Can I get an Amen? –Just Kidding!

I Never Cease To Amaze Myself

2010-03-08T17:22:00.005-05:00

I just think it’s wrong that CVS didn’t have my Vyvanse ready. I couldn’t wait on it any longer since it was pushing 2:30 and Brennan hadn’t had a nap. I listened to her whimper as I drove home.

You know there is some security in the car- all the children strapped down, occupied by the movie or the changing scenery, and the invisible limo window I like to pretend is blocking their chatter from my thoughts.

Once at home the marathon that is my life begins. I know I am crazy and unorganized and sporadic, but really I don’t have to be medicated to make it through my daily life. I did get 3 degrees without meds. The vyvanse just seems to make my motherly and wifely duties easier.

Well……………….

At least I thought the meds weren’t nessary!

I mean really. Can you boil ice? NO- KRISTIN! You were supposed to put the eggs in the water to boil! The ice was for your water! And, no the eggs did not make it in my water; I realized what I did before I put the eggs in my glass.

The best part of this mishap of mine is that Ryan was not even surprised when I told him. He just gently rolled his eyes at me and smiled. I wonder if I burn the house down if he will have the same response. ----NAH, I doubt it!

The eggs eventually were boiled, pealed and added to our salad. Since the weather was absolutely beautiful we ate outside.

Ryan and I had the sweetest little dinner dates ever!

Hope you enjoyed your sunshine today ;)

Compare Contrast

2010-03-02T17:28:00.018-05:00

I have told many parents of my students and friends of mine not to compare their children because they will drive themselves crazy, but I must confess that I do it too. It is so easy to compare your children, but I think it’s even easier to compare twins! I mean aren’t they supposed to be the same?

Yes, Blythe and Bree are fraternal and as opposite as they look so are their personalities, learning styles, interest, and taste. Yet, I try to morph them into one person; often treating them as a unit instead of individuals. I want both of them to meat their developmental milestones at the same time. I want them to learn at the same rate. I want them to both to enjoy the same toys/sports. I want them both to be empathic. I want them both to be like Jesus. I want them both to love Jesus. (The last 2 I will not budge on- they have to be the same on these!)

Really, I know they aren’t always going to be the same, but I still compare them. I worry that Bree will struggle in school because she is just not as interested in academics as Blythe is. Bree is so much like her moma- ADD and Blythe is so much like her daddy- OCD! Like I said they are complete opposites. I also worry about Blythe, but that is a whole other blog entry.

HA! There is no reason for me to worry about Bree anymore! (Well, at least not right now.) She did it, while we were on their field trip to INK!

Soap Box

2010-02-26T14:55:00.005-05:00

Most of you know I am a teacher. Not only is it one of my spiritual gifts, but it is the way I used to earn a living. I am thankful that God is allowing me this time to be a stay a home mom, but eventually I know I will go back to the classroom simply because I enjoy it.

This morning when I woke up I turned on the news immediately to catch the latest on all this snow we are getting in the North Georgia Mountains. Of course the weather man was just finishing up so I watched while I waited on the next round of weather reporting.

Disgusted! That is what I was after listing to the story about the group firing of the teachers in RI. I mean come on. Then to top it off- our PRESIDENT supported this decision. WHAT??????

**************WARNING***************

If you like our President or agree with the decision in RI, just don’t read anymore.

Point 1:

Teaching is HARD; especially when you are teaching in a community of low socioeconomic status families. From what I have read these teachers were facing this challenge. In my opinion this is the hardest condition to teach under because your job then becomes educating a community not just students. This leads me to my next point.

Point 2:

IT IS NOT THE JOB OF THE CLASSROOM TEACHER TO RAISE THE COUNTRIES CHILDREN!!! When are we as a country going to place the responsibility of raising and teaching our children back on- THE PARENTS? It is the responsibility of parents to provide an environment for children where education is valued. Believe it or not, but this requires NO MONEY! I don’t care how poor or rich parents are they can provide this example. If you as a parent are not going to be active in the education of your children or for that matter active in your child’s life- DON’T HAVE CHILDREN!

Point 3:

Since our country does not believe that the responsibility our childrens' education is the parents, then they need to SUPPORT teachers. Support them: provide them with what they need, pay them accordingly, provide education for parents and the community. SHAME on you- Obama. Teachers work hard, often over looking their own families to support and help children who are already in the viscous cycle of poverty.

My experience teaching in a low socioeconomic community left me detached from my family. I vaguely remember the first year of my twins’ life because I was so consumed with the success of my classroom. I had anywhere from 18 to 15 kids that year (because these families constantly move back and forth); 8 of whom had learning disabilities and or significant delays. Since I taught kindergarten it was my job to line up the testing, schedule and make observations, meet with parents, do the paper work, prove I had tried interventions, provide work samples, etc…, oh yeah and teach ALL the students in my classroom. On top of my classroom duties I had to coach cheerleading at the middle school because- “they needed me”. (By the way, my coaching supplement for the entire year which included 2 seasons was $800.00. Not even enough to cover my gas to drive to the school for Saturday games.) My life was consumed by these children and their success, all the while my own children’s success was left to the hands of someone else. After, much assessment of my life my husband and I decided it was my responsibility to be with my children right now. I am continually thankful for the opportunity to be a SAHM because I know there are not very many families that can afford to do this these days.

Many people think that all teachers do is teach children how to read, do arithmetic, basic science, and history. WRONG! They teach these skills in order to use the information to do their real job. The job of a teacher is to teach a child how to think, how to organize their thoughts, how to make inferences, how to draw conclusions, how to compare and contrast, etc… This is a hard task- Obama would you like to try? Oh wait! The stress of it might make you relapse on your cigarette addition.

If you are a parent make education important to you- it will become important to your child. Love and support your teachers- they work hard and often spend more time with your child than they do with their own children.

Thanks for reading my soap box post! :)

10 Loves

2010-02-22T10:01:00.014-05:00

Ok, so after I ragged on my friends for being slow on updating their blogs I am slacking myself. I know Sarah tagged me forever ago, but here it is- finally. My 10 Loves. This was so hard for me because I like to consider myself a LOVER! I love just about everything from the way coffee beans smell to the way the sun shines in my windows, but after much consideration here are my top 10-

Jesus- 'nough said!
Praise and worship at RPCC! Is there a better way to start the week?
That I am her greatest comfort!
That she loves to twirl!
That she will go sound asleep in my arms!
My husband and the fact that he loves me as I am!
The bible- specifically 1John- the love book! I know I am a lover through and through! That is why it is so hard for me to pick just 10!
GNO! I love going out with my friends and I love that we can come up with any excuse to go out and celebrate- new babies, discovering the sex of a new baby, playing games, birthdays, play dates for our children, holidays, new jobs, TV show premiers etc…
Blog land! I can get lost for hours and end up on the other side of the country.
That the scale says I am down 10 lbs. I only have 55 lbs left to loose to weigh what I did before I had the twins.

He's Bringing SEXY Back or Maybe He Just Changed What it Means

2010-02-13T21:13:00.001-05:00

Ryan has been my Valentine for the last 10 years, 6 of those we have been married. I have to say that over the last 10 Valentine Days my idea of sexy has changed.

Ryan and I haven't changed much. WE- we remain the same! I am still as scatter brained and spontaneous as ever and he is well, STEADY and PREDICTABLE.

Ohhhh, and how thankful I am for that! Thankful that he still makes my heart pound. Thankful that I find the diaper in his back pocket as sexy as those batting gloves and that swinging our girls around in the air is as sexy as swinging a bat. In another 10 years or so that diaper may be replaced by an empty wallet after he buys 2 cars and he may be swinging boys out our front door, but chances are he will still be sexy- at least to me.

Happy Valentine's Day, Ryan!

I Wish

2010-02-10T21:53:00.000-05:00

I wish those heels looked that good on me! (and yes- her panties are backwards! She insisted they were right!)

It Takes a Village

2010-02-07T12:09:00.000-05:00

I know you have all heard the saying, “it takes a village to raise a child”. Well, this morning I found the clearest evidence of this in our home.

When the girls got up this morning we went through our Sunday morning routine, but opted not to go to church at the last minute for several different reasons. One being, Blythe has had the crud for about 2 weeks, but when the snot didn’t change from yellow to clear (I know that is gross, but it is what it is) before hair bow time this became strike 1. Strike 2 was the phone call from Ryan’s mom telling us Pop was in the hospital again and they were going to be transporting him to Northeast GA. to have a pace maker put in. Strike 3; my little speckled frog has some new spots. No she is not on the antibiotic anymore. These are new and different from the other rash, they came up about 3 days ago and I assumed they were just a skin irritation. Poor baby :( Needless to say we will be visiting Dr. Garrett in the morning for 2 of the 3 children.

After daddy left to visit Pop I encouraged the girls to go play since Brennan didn’t sleep good and needed an earlier nap. Surprisingly, they did as they were told without objection (I thought they would be disappointed since we weren’t going to church. They love church!).

Listening and observing children play happens to be one of my many loves in life. Children interact with others on such honest and genuine levels it is refreshing. So after Brennan was sleeping I secretly sat on the steps and listened to the twins play. It wasn’t surprising to me to hear them role playing, but what was surprising to me were the people they were pretending to be.

They weren’t princesses, princes, fairies, ballerinas, football players (yes, they do play this, thanks to dad.) They were our friends; people from our community, people we see on a daily/weekly basis, people we love, admire and care about. People I am honored to have my children look up too. So if you ever think your impact on your community doesn’t go much further than your home and job you are wrong, they are watching my children and other children. They see you and you matter to them. They look up to you and mimic your behaviors, so mind you manners. ;)

In the last 2 hours or so they have been the following:

Kim, Stacy, Kelsey, and Alexa

Mrs. Missy and “the boys”

Mrs. Laura, Dr. Garrett, and Jack

Mrs. Merideth and Mr. Derek

Mrs. Kendra and Mr. Kevin

Mrs. Heather and Mr. Kevin

Mrs. Joni and Mr. Tim

Mrs. Karrie and Mr. Brent

Mrs. Kisha and Mr. Scott

Uncle Joe and Aunt Lyn- this one happens to be my favorite because my aunt is only 60 and was diagnosed with alzheimer’s last year. She is changing so fast; the medicines are not working for her. It’s funny to see their interpretations of both my aunt and uncle’s behaviors.

Yes, it takes a village and we are thankful for our village. The people in our community- our friends and our family: you matter, you matter to Ryan and I and you matter to our children!

Worship on Sundays~

2010-02-01T09:24:00.000-05:00

Did you sit with Jesus?
Did you feel the contentment of the Holy Spirit?
Did you listen for his voice?
Did you soak up his words?
Did you sing of his Majesty?

DID YOU ROCK OUT IN HIS GLORY?
I DID

Lift my hands and spin around.
See the light that I have found.
Oh the marvelous light,
Marvelous light.
-Charlie Hall

What is Happening??????

2010-01-25T14:02:00.000-05:00

Ok. So I have had my 3 daughters in only 2 pregnancies. The first time around my postpartum experience was pretty uneventful. The only thing worth mentioning is that I suffered some rough migraines about 9 months after delivering the twins. Thanks to Athens Neurology and Dr. Beaty that problem was solved quickly!

Needless to say I was totally unexpecting the changes that are occurring this time. I mean I only had 1 baby what could possibly happen. HAHAHAHAHA!

My hair is failing out in clumps! OK, that is fine since I have hair to spare, but my feet have gotten larger! I mean come on, is it not enough that my whole body has gotten larger!
At first I tought I was going crazy, so I asked my sweet friend Jana (she's a podiatrist) she said that after pregnancy ligaments relax and feet get wider.

Errrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

So I have cleaned out 1/2 of my shoes and there are at least this many more :(
You might ask if I would do it all over again, by that I mean pregnancy and I would have to say yes! Each one of my children are worth a big butt, bigger feet, headaches, and baldness.

Snow Days

2010-01-08T13:12:00.000-05:00

Just a few words and photos to describe our fun snow day.

The only thing that would have made it more perfect would be if daddy could have enjoyed it with us, but hey- he's on so you can be!

Hopeful.

Snow.

Cold.

Snugly.

Angelic.

Warm.

Yummy.

Just Magical

2010-01-04T15:15:00.000-05:00

Well, that was simply the best Christmas eva!

Santa decided to take the girls to Disney World instead of delivering massive amounts of plastic hunks! Don't get me wrong the girls still received "plastic" just not as much! It was kind of nice to have less under the tree. There was less mess and more time to just enjoy each other and celebrate Jesus--- until it was time to pack up and load the car.

We had a blast eating with the Princesses and riding the fun rides! Ryan and I felt like kids too. The castle is absolutely beautiful when it is lit up for Christmas! The best part of the trip was seeing Bree and Blythe's faces light up with joy over and over again- it was magical!

P.S. I've started a 365 project! I think?!?! Thanks Kim and Laura for the idea! I'll post some pics soon!

It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year!

2009-12-10T21:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it's here! We have taken down Tom the Thankful Turkey and adorned our home with trees and tinsel! It is the most wonderful time of year.

I can not tell you how much I enjoy celebrating the birth of our Savior! My sweet Jesus who came into the this world as a tiny baby to endure such persecution, died such a horrendous death, and ROSE so that I might LIVE! How GREAT and AWESOME is HE!

During the hustle and bustle of the season; I hope you and your family find time to sit and soak up all that is the season- JESUS!

Our Trees...

***If you are looking for a place to soak him up our church is having a Christmas Communion & Candlelight Family Service on Wednesday, December 23rd at 6:30! There will not be child care for this service (hints it's a family service) ****riverpointchurch.com We would love to have you!

Greatful~

2009-11-02T15:13:00.000-05:00

Well, Halloween is over and I am counting down the days until Ryan will let me start putting the trees up! Until then I am going to try to reflect on all that I have to be thankful for, but that just brings me back to Jesus and Christmas! HAHAHA

I do love Christmas, but I also love Thanksgiving and Ryan and I really have a lot to be thankful for. Mostly, I thank Jesus for 3 healthy girls! What a blessing it has been this fall to have such healthy children. Brennan is going for her 4 month check up tomorrow and we expect to have another great appointment (in contrast to the twins check ups when they were babies). Dr. Garrett may tell us she is rotten, but we already knew that! I am also thankful for our wealth. A couple of weeks ago Pastor Kevin was talking about this website: http://www.globalrichlist.com/ in his sermon. It really made me understand just how wealthy our family is; we are in the the top 0.88% of the world's wealth. Now Ryan is no Bill Gates or Warren Buffett but, our family is in the top 1% of the world's wealth. Do we share enough of our wealth or are we wasting money on stuff? Even though we have so much compared to the rest of the world we are just like other families; we wonder if there will be enough money at the end of the month to cover our outgoing cost. But, knowing that we have so much compared to the rest of the world makes us more content with what we have and more cautious about how we spend our extra (if there is extra) money. Hopefully, there will be a little extra to give away this Holiday season. (Beyond our tithing!)

Since it's not quite Christmas I'll get back to fall... these 3 girls of ours have kept us busy for the months of September and October. We've had a trip to the beach, the lake, and the pumpkin patch. We finished up October with a rainy Halloween. Enjoy the pics...

I Think My Heart Might Explode…

2009-09-02T11:21:00.000-04:00

Several months back I was listening to 2 friends of mine discuss their feelings and fears about loving their 2nd child as much as they loved their 1st. One had just found out she was expecting and was wondering if she could love this new baby as much as she loved her 1st. The other friend had recently had her 2nd child and confessed it took her awhile to fall in love with her.

This conversation was odd for me for 2 reasons. One, my first children came in 2’s and second I was pregnant with my third. Throughout the rest of my pregnancy I wondered if I would immediately fall in love with my new baby or if I would have to wait for those feelings to come. I don’t know if it was because I had twins first so loving multiple children was never a question for me or if those feelings and fears are normal for some mothers and not for others, but from the moment Brennan entered the world I have been so in love with her just talking about her brings me to tears. She is the most beautiful baby, the most content, and loving creature I think I have ever known. I am so blessed that God choose me to be her mother and equally as blessed that God choose Brennan to be my daughter.

So to my sweet mama friends who might wonder if they can love their 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc… as much as the 1st; absolutely. Never, never, never, question the depth too which God can stretch and expand your heart. I think if I had anymore children my heart would explode.

On a lighter note…
The month of August was filled to the brim for us so every moment I could get to just sit and hold this little Love of mine I did. She is growing like a weed and I am so afraid I will get too busy and forget or miss a special moment with her.

The 1st part of the month Ryan’s family from NH came to visit with us, which was interesting to say the least. (BTW, if you want to know what happens to your family when you don’t believe in or practice the principles of Jesus and vote for Obama just ask me!) The next week Ryan went out of town for a few days so my mom stayed with me and the girls. Her visit lead us to eventually give Brennan some cereal in a bottle at night. (I don’t think my mom believed me when I told her that Brennan literally nurses every 2 to 3 hours until she lived it.) The rest of the month was filled with fun visiting and visits from and to our friends in Jefferson and Buford, GA. and Auburn, AL.

But, perhaps the best part of the month was on Sunday. Our church baptizes down at the river or as Bree calls it, “playing in the hoochee” (that would be the Chattahoochee). Anyway, Brennan was dedicated on Sunday while we were at the river celebrating the baptisms of about 25 others. It was a beautiful day and the rain held off just long enough for us to enjoy lunch and fellowship with our family and friends.

Our Love

2009-07-31T17:27:00.000-04:00

Brennan is a month old! Where has the time gone?

Like all newborns in the past 4 weeks Brennan has grown and changed so much. At one week she had already gained back up to the birth weight, at two weeks I thought something was wrong with her because she would sleep for six or seven hours at a time, at three weeks she began to open her eyes more and more, and at magical week four she has hit a growth spurt and enjoys eating every 2 ½ hours (no more sleeping for mom and dad). I imagine she weighs more than 7lbs. which is what she weighed about a week ago. She is such a sweet bundle and she has brought so much joy to our already happy family.

Even more amazing than the changes taking place with Brennan are the changes with Blythe and Bree. They have each grown from toddlers to little girls who are helpful and considerate. Don’t get me wrong Brennan’s arrival did not pass without meltdowns from each of them, but over all they have done very well. They start to 3 year old pre-school on August 10th and I must confess that I am sad they will be gone for 3 days each week.

As for mom and dad life with 3 little women is not much different from 2. Our home is still overflowing with tutus, princess dresses, necklaces, dress-up shoes, baby dolls, and estrogen. There is also lots of laughing and giggling that always seems to be finished by shrill high pitched screams.

~Our sweet little women~

Bree is our joy and Blythe is full of passion
Brennan is our love

Our sweet friend Heather Wiley did their photos;)

~It's A Girl~

2009-07-01T07:21:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was Ryan’s 26th birthday and it is also the birthday of our 3rd daughter, Laine Brennan. She was born at 8:31 a.m. weighing a whopping 6lbs. 3oz. and she is 18in. of beautiful.

We are so blessed that we made it to 37 weeks and Lainey is a very healthy baby girl. I have not held her yet, but hopefully today I can squeeze my sweet baby. She had to go to the NICU shortly after birth because of some breathing issues. Ryan and our families were able to see her yesterday, but my blood pressure made me to sick to visit her. I will finish my magnesium sulfate medicine around 11 a.m. so hopefully I will feel up to visiting her then and she will be ready to see her mommy as well.

Blythe and Bree are so happy to be BIG sisters, but they were upset yesterday because they did not get to see her. Lainey should be well enough for them to visit today, but there is no doubt she will be tired after her 1st visit with her BIG sisters.

I don’t think Ryan could have a cuter little lady to share his birthday with. He was grinning from ear to ear all day yesterday as he escorted family and friends in and out of the NICU to show off his birthday gift. It is obvious that Ryan is very proud to be the daddy of 3 little girls.

Before you were born, Laine I knew you.

Jeremiah 1:5

Waiting Days

2009-06-28T21:15:00.000-04:00

I have been in the hospital since Thursday and will remain here until after the baby is born. I have been contracting off and on and haven’t made much progress (from 2 to 4 cm.), and since I can’t have any of those good drugs that speed up the process I am waiting. I do get to take some pain medicine, but I try not to take it. My blood pressure is up and down; when it is up they make me lay flat in the bed to one side or the other. When it’s down I can sit up in the bed; a few times Ryan has taken me for a ride in the wheel chair.

To pass the time I read, watch TV, play games, but my favorite thing is when Bree and Blythe come to visit. Bree won’t talk to me much, she seems to be afraid of the hospital bed and I think she is afraid I am hurt. Blythe loves to push the buttons on my bed, expect for the ones that move the bed up and down.

The waiting will soon be over- if the baby is not here before Tuesday, then I am scheduled for a c-section at noon. The best part about having the baby on Tuesday is that it will be Ryan’s birthday- perfect since I can’t go shopping. Ryan would rather the baby have it’s own birthday and not have to share with him, but my mom told him it will be special. She should know she shares her birthday with Jesus.

Tonight I have been contracting pretty hard and they seem endless. So I am coping by listening to music. The first song happened to be- “While I’m Waiting” by John Waller. A little bit ironic, don’t ya think? (J/K, just my cheesy humor) Seriously, the song is reminding me that this is the perfect time to worship him and to serve him. I am not spiritually confined to this bed. So tonight while I am waiting my heart is screaming praises to the Lord for all the many blessing I have received- especially over the last 36 ½ weeks. While I am waiting in this extremely cold hospital room I am filled with the warm love of Jesus. While I am waiting there is peace in my heart.

Mile Marker 36

2009-06-23T20:20:00.000-04:00

All done!!! Baby Walls has officially baked long enough. At my appointment yesterday they took out the cerclage and Dr. Connor said if the baby does not come in the next week and half they will go ahead and take the baby. He is still concerned with my blood pressure and is having me come back on Thursday for an appointment and non-stress test; if my blood pressure has gone up again or if I have more protein in my urine they may go ahead and schedule the c-section for early next week.

I am still on bed rest, but have found myself pushing the limits the past 2 days. With the cerclage gone it is highly possible that I could continue to dilate and my water break on its own; that would be nice.

Because baby Walls will be born before 38 weeks he or she will technically be considered premature, but Dr. Connor estimated his or her weight to be around 6.5 lbs. and is extremely confident we will get to bring a healthy baby home with us.

Rejoice!!!!! I can not even explain the emptiness a mother feels leaving the hospital empty handed. Bree and Blythe came home as soon as they were healthy enough for Ryan and I to take care of; but to be honest I haven’t really thought about bringing this baby home from the hospital. So after my doctor’s appointment on Monday the car seat has been added to the packed bags that are lined up in our hallway. Ohhh, and I added a diaper bag and some gowns for the baby, but if any of you have any other suggestions about what I might need for the baby that would be greatly appreciated. I know it sounds kind of silly coming from the mother of twins who used to keep a large storage box in the back off her car filled with extra supplies, because face it-the little travel pack of wipes is pointless when you are wiping 2 fannies. But, seriously I knew the minute my water broke with the girls that there was no chance they were coming home with me from the hospital. The NICU took over their care for the first 2 months and Ryan and I assisted when we could or when we were needed. Not this time! Ryan and I get to be daddy and mommy from minute one.

God has been so gracious to our family and we are so blessed to have twin girls and this new blessing coming any day, but we are happy to announce we are finished with the: be fruitful and multiply verse! We are ready to move on to the next phase of our lives; we aren’t sure what that is yet, but are confident God will lead us in the right direction.
Excited. Blessed. Anxious!

Mile Marker 34

2009-06-09T19:28:00.000-04:00

AMEN, AMEN, AMEN!!!! I am 34 weeks prego today! This is such a blessing and to top it all off the little critter weighs 5 lbs. 11 oz.

The down side is I am writing from the hospital. I had a rough night last night and for the past few days I could tell my blood pressure was rising. At my appointment today as I predicted my blood pressure was 148/88 and I had protein in my urine again. The worst part is the headache I have had since Saturday; nothing I can take seems to ease the pain.

The doctor sent me over to the hospital to be observed for at least 24 hours. The pain killers for the headache have eased it off a little and they have helped me sleep. With the headache less severe I was not as nauseated and was able to get down some food. The doctor has taken me off the procardia to see if it’s masking my high blood pressure, but if the contractions come back I will have to start it again. It seems for some reason my pulse is high, around 148. I don’t know what they plan on doing with me, but the only cure for preeclampsia is delivery of the baby. Dr. Jacobson was not very clear with us today other than I am his patient and I am getting sicker. In other words I am his main concern. He referred us to Dr. Allaire, a perinatalogist (sp) for the baby. Dr. Allaire did an ultrasound of the baby today and feels he or she will do well (another blessing).

There is not much else to tell since the doctor hasn’t made his rounds yet. Say a little prayer for us as we realize we are getting closer and closer to meeting our sweet new baby. Say a prayer for me too; I need all the energy I can mustard up when I get home with the new baby and right now I am not feeling so hot. I am also missing my girls at home and wishing we could all be together.

God has been so good to our family and we can't wait to be a party of 5!

Mile Marker 32

2009-05-28T14:13:00.000-04:00

I would do a back handspring if I thought I could get my big belly over my head- I am 32 weeks!

My doctor’s visit yesterday was very important, over the last month I have lost 10-12 lbs. and normally this would thrill me to no end, but not during pregnancy. So at my 31 week appointment Dr. Connor decided to do an ultrasound of the baby at 32 weeks. I must confess I was a little worried until the ultrasound revealed a 4 lb. 10 oz. baby. WOW, I know that seems small to most people, but our largest twin, Bree only weighed 3 lbs. 9 oz. at 31 weeks. I know this baby has an extra week on her already, but to be a whole pound bigger is just amazing. If I do end up making it 7 more weeks, I could have a whopper. I wouldn’t know what to do with 7 or 8 pounder? Bree and Blythe weren’t 8 lbs. until they were 6 months old.

The rest of the appointment revealed that my cervix is still completely thinned and I have dilated about 2 cm. Over the past 2 weeks I have made 2 more trips to the hospital to stop the contractions so Dr. Connor gave me another med to use in combo with the Procardia to try to stop the contractions. I have contractions daily and at least 3 or 4 times a day they begin to create a pattern of 1 to 2 minutes apart with each episode lasting anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. Don’t ask me how I know when to go to the hospital; I just go when I can’t take it anymore. Dr. Connor said since the contractions are breaking through the Procardia then the oral Brethine may help or we may just be getting ready for the big day. In other words there is not much else they can or will do at this point. He feels the baby will do relatively well if it is born soon and I am confident he or she will do well too.

Lastly, the Procardia I take for the contractions should help with my blood pressure, but despite the fact that I take it around the clock my blood pressure is elevating. My feet and hands are beginning to look like the Mischelin Tire man. I have gained a few pounds, but Dr. Connor attributes it to the swelling. So I have to have my blood pressure checked 2 times a day and report any significant changes. Dr. Connor and I both agree it would be a shame to have to take the baby early now for my blood pressure, but he assured me he would if he had to. In other words I am to follow orders and behave.

So thank you to all my sweet friends for your thoughts, prayers, meals and even the adult conversations I catch here and there. Hopefully my next update will be 34 weeks. OHHHHHHHHHH- I almost forgot the debates over the baby’s name have ended. If baby Walls is a girl she will be Laine Brennan, probably to be called “Lainey” and a baby boy Walls will be named Jonathan Thomas and we will call him “John Thomas”.

Mile Marker 30

2009-05-08T23:41:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I was hoping I wouldn’t have to write again until I was 32 weeks, but we have had a very eventful week. I have had 2 bouts of pre-term labor, each time the doctors were able to stop the contractions with the use of meds- mostly in the form of shots (ouch)! When I am examined they can not feel any cervix left, but with an ultrasound I am showing to have about 2cm. The best news is I have not dilated at all and the cerclage is holding tight. My blood pressure has lowered because of the oral medicine they have given me to take for the contractions.

Due to all the uncertainty with when I will deliver they decided to give me steroid shots for the baby’s lungs. That way if the baby comes early his or her lungs will be further developed. I had the same shots with the girls and I do believe they are helpful.

My life now consists of rotating around the house- from the couch to the chair to the bed to the sunroom. I am not allowed to be on my feet for more than 10 minutes an hour so it’s hard to keep my mind busy.

At my last appointment on Tuesday Dr. Connor did not want to examine me, he thought it was best not to disturb anything. I was happy with that. Other positives include no blood or protein in my urine and lower blood pressure. All is well at 30 weeks prego. Now- maybe I won’t write again until 32 weeks prego.

Mile Marker 28

2009-05-05T07:33:00.000-04:00

Wow- the past 2 weeks have been eventful. The girls have turned 3 and I have turned 28. Right in the middle of all the cakes and ice cream I failed my sugar test- both the 1 hour test and the 3 hour test. This past Friday (on my birthday) I had my gestational diabetes class, it was there that they gave me the finger pricker to test my sugar with. All I can say is perfect timing, since my mom had just made my favorite cake! Not only did I fail my sugar test, but my blood pressure is on the rise and I have a small amount of protein in my urine; which are signs of preeclampsia.

The blessing in all of this is: I am 28 weeks and the viability of the baby has increased to about 80-90%. There are health risks related to having a premature baby, but as each day passes I am getting closer to full term. God is so good and his presence in our lives brings immense peace. My next goal is 32 weeks, until then God bless!

P.S. I was late posting this and I am actually 29 weeks today! Also I am not done posting pictures for my last post- I have missed placed the CD with their pics on them. Imagine that???

Our first~

2009-04-24T21:50:00.000-04:00

Today you girls are turning 3 and I am remembering some of our first…
The first breath you breathed~

Bree Blythe

The first time I saw you~

Bree Blythe

The first time I touched you~

Bree Blythe

The first time I held you~
Bree Blythe
The first time we had a family photo~

The first time you smiled at me~
BreeBlythe

The first time you were put back together~

1st DayLater on...

The first time I got to feed you~

The first time you wore clothes (yes, this was a milestone)~

The first time I brought you home~

The first time you visited the lake~

The first time you had a play date with Sarah Kate~

The first time you ate baby food~

The first time you were visited by Santa~
BreeBlythe
The first time you dressed up for Easter~

The first time you had a birthday~

I will treasure all of our first, but I also anticipate all the first yet to come. I am also so thankful God choose the two of you to be my daughters. You will never fully understand the joy you have brought to my life. Happy birthday my sweet babies.

Mile Marker 25

2009-04-09T15:51:00.000-04:00

25 weeks prego!!! I made it to perhaps the most important week of this pregnancy. If I were to have baby Walls today he or she would have about a 50/50 chance at life and there is a great chance he or she would suffer from many of the disabilities related to prematurity.

With all that in mind~ TODAY I am still pregnant and I am very confident that I will stay this way for awhile. About 4 weeks ago my blood pressure was slowly on the rise, but at my appointment 2 weeks ago it had dropped to 106/56! God is good. I have not had a contraction in about 6 weeks. Praise the Lord. My baby is very low, but my cervix seems to be holding on around 3.2cm. Though 4cm. would be the best Dr. Connor is happy with anything over 3cm.

As I am writing this- baby Walls is kicking around letting me know he or she is alive and well and that our God IS-
Thank you for all your prayers.

God Bless & Happy Easter

(The bump under Bree and Blythe's chins is the baby)

A Conversation with God

2009-03-20T06:38:00.001-04:00

My heart is heavy this morning, God. I am remembering my sweet friend, Missy and her baby boy she lost in November and my sweet cousin Eve, who lost her baby yesterday and delivered him very early this morning. –But then you probably knew that all ready.

I believe that you ARE; a loving God, a merciful God, a compassionate God, and a tender God. In all this I try to understand what you were thinking and why you allowed such things to happen- NO I am not wavering in my faith. I do believe that your plan is greater than I can understand, but the human side of me thirsts for comprehension of that plan. Which leads me to ask why; I know I am not supposed to do this? Why create a life and then take it before it has a chance to bless the world? Why strike a mother with such pain? Why leave a family feeling incomplete? Why leave a father wondering what it would have been like to play ball with his son? Why leave brothers and sisters without one more person to tease? –I know you say do not question.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; Proverbs 3:5
But, you are so complicated, Lord. My human mind can not grasp the tiniest part of your plan. Once again I know I don’t need to understand and I do trust you. I will not turn from you, but instead find comfort in the fact that you are in control of what I can not begin to comprehend.

Lord, I PRAISE you for the many blessing I have been given. Thank you so much for the rainbow I saw yesterday, a sweet promise from you. I praise you for loving me, loving Missy and loving Eve. I praise you for the life Missy and Eve were so blessed to carry. I praise you for the things I can not understand.

Lord, Jesus, I ask that you comfort Eve and her family as her wound is fresh. I will also ask that you continue to comfort Missy as she will always grieve for the child she lost. I ask that in your time you bless each of them with children. I ask that you continue to protect the child that I carry. Lastly, I ask if you might continue to show us glimpses of yourself through these storms and then when the time right- CALM this storm.

Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, & he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. Psalm 107:28-29

Reality

2009-03-16T07:57:00.000-04:00

Early this month I was at a MOPS meeting with some of my other mom friends. Normally I would enjoy the Christian fellowship, but this month I have been assessing myself as mother/wife. I listened as many of them talk about their homes, husbands, and children.

I don’t know if they intended for me to have the mental pictures I was creating or not, but they were coming fast and furious.

All I could see were perfectly clean children dressed well and adorned with beautiful bows and neatly combed hair. Then came the images of the children standing near the door of an immaculately spotless home greeting their father as he enters his castle, which smells of dinner simmering. Lastly, I see this mother, wait I mean wife who is dressed complete with makeup and heels meeting her husband with a drink and kiss.

OK- so for weeks I have been wondering what is wrong with my home?

My reality is:
Within a week both of my children have eaten dirt.
Then, there was the day that one of the twins ate the play dough.
Oh, did I mention that one of the girls refuses to stop playing to go to the potty so I change her panties at least 4 times a day due to dribbling in them. I won’t even go through the potty training days with you.
As soon as I try to clean the French doors in the sun room the girls are rubbing their hands all over them- they think they are helping me clean.
This one happens to be my favorite, when the girls were little (about 8 months old) Blythe ate a whole paper towel and we didn’t know until it came out the other end.
Bree used to love to splash in the toilet when she was about a year old.
When I fold clothes, they unfold them.
Bree licked the uncooked turkey on Thanksgiving.
They’ve been climbing since they were 10 months old- enough said.

Oh- you ask where I am while all this is going on. Well, I wish I could say I was giving the maid instructions of what to clean up or the nanny an itinerary, and then off to eat bonbons and have my nails done, all before I lay out by the pool and tan. The fact is I am constantly one step behind them; my feet have blistered as I try to head them off at the next turn. The house is usually untidy and unorganized, but the kids do not lack in the areas of exploration and life experiences. Is this to say I do not try to keep a clean home? No, but I do have a sense of reality- or at least mine.

My reality is that my children will only be small for a while and then they will be off to school, ball practices, and other activities leaving me plenty of time to clean and fix myself up. My reality is that I present my children to my husband as they are: beautiful, even when they are still in their PJ’s at 5:00PM with dirt smears and paint on their faces. I present myself much in the same way expect instead of the dirt and paint it might be flour from the dinner I attempted to cook, but burned because I was refereeing at fight. While my husband may come home to a clean home it may not be straight. More than likely he will have to weave his way through the toys that are creating a maze on the rug. Oh, the drink and kiss- not happening. If any drinks are to be given out it will be the imaginary margarita in my hand as I day dream of lying on the beach- in my pre-baby body!

I just have to assume that this is actually the reality of many of my MOPS friends. I love all my MOPS friends, but can not believe they are all better than me at mothering and housekeeping. Oh I do believe that some of them are, but I know that there are a few that share my reality.

Boy or Girl????

2009-02-19T18:18:00.000-05:00

Meet the newest member of our family….

I am not one of those women who loves being pregnant, but I do love the moments like this. –When you get to watch the sweetest of all God’s creations.

Your hands made me and formed me Psalm 119:73

You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13

As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. Ecclesiastes 11:5

A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. John 16:21

Before I was born the LORD called me; from my birth he has made mention of my name. Isaiah 49:1

Picasso's In Training

2009-01-22T12:34:00.001-05:00

Our new baby will be here in July and in order to insure a healthy baby who is delivered at term instead of early I had a cerclage put in on Monday! Everyone is fine and we are finally all healthy, but the girls are beginning to suffer from cabin fever- since I can’t get out or pick them up until Friday. So in my efforts to insure the sanity of the family I have kept the girls busy with mini projects. My finger painting on the windows project ended up being more fun than I thought. Even their smocks couldn’t keep these little Picasso’s clean.

Snowy Day

2008-12-01T21:37:00.000-05:00

Cold and snowy, hot chocolate and a fire in the fireplace, my children's excitement over every flurry- a perfect day. Today was a good day- cuddle in the floor with my girls and the dog trying to stay warm and watching the flurries fly in the sky. The short moments we spent dancing in the snow topped off our day like the marshmallows in our hot chocolate. Who knows? Maybe we'll have a white Christmas.