.This.Little.Life.of.Mine.

No Longer In Use.

2010-09-09T16:38:00.002-04:00

I am no longer going to post to this blog.

Please visit my other blog Sugar Booger Designs instead!

I Call This Series...

2010-03-21T10:01:00.002-04:00

I Poop.

If only you could hear her about now... Yikes.

Taking a breath.

Fists clenched, pulling hair... pooping is hard work!

ah. Success.

This would have been much more hilarious on video. You should hear this girl. She is by far the noisiest baby I have ever seen. She never stops making noises. All night long even. At least I never had to worry about the whole "is my baby still breathing" thing. :)

Sweet Blessings and a Promise (to myself)

2010-03-16T10:44:00.002-04:00

I was looking back at this little notebook I had been keeping for Sophie with all the little things she's doing and I got so upset when I realized I had just stopped writting in it around 12 months! There are so many things I know I wanted to remember between then and now. I thought surely I could pull some things off my blog, but I just haven't been good at blogging either! I have been racking my brain trying to remember as many things as I can, but it made me realize how good blogging is just for my own sake. So, I have promised myself that I am going to be more faithful at blogging so that I can hang on to each of those special little memories.

So, here is the first post in keeping my promise to myself:

My how the Lord has blessed us! We love having two sweet little girls. It's been a little crazy with having the stomach flu and other illnesses, no sleep, plus just the adjustment of having a new little one, but we are still loving being a family of four.

Miss Maggie is not the best sleeper, but neither was her big sister. Sophie is a fantastic sleeper now. She cracks me up at how much she loves to go to bed. I'm sure it helps that she and her Daddy have a fun bedtime routine that she loves so much.

This little porkchop has more than surpassed her birthweight and at 2 weeks was already at 7lbs 10oz. I can guarantee you that she weighs more than that now at 3 weeks. She is already starting to look so big to me! Today she was trying to coo at us. I love those little new baby coos!

I can't wait to see what kind of personality this little one will have. Will she be serious like Josh thought in the beginning or will she follow in her sister's footsteps and be a goofball?

Sophie girl is adjusting pretty good. She loves "her baby" and always wants to go see where "her Maggie" is. She loves kissing on her and really wants to poke her eyes... yep, gotta keep an eye on her! She loves to help me throw away diapers and hand me pacis. Yes, as you can see, Sophie still has a paci too. Judge me if you want, but she likes it so much that I hate to take it away! She only gets it at bedtime, but today we are having a sick day so we're breaking the rules a little. When she woke up this morning, I asked her (in my sad voice) if she was doing okay. She just looked at me and matter-of-factly said "I'm find. Don't worry, Mommy." Like she was some kind of grown up! Love that girl!

She likes to put the boppy pillow around her waist and say "I wanna go to the pool!"

This morning she put her pants on all by herself and started jumping up and down screaming "I did it! I did it!" Very proud moment in a two year olds life.

Love this life that I have been blessed with! Somedays I have to remind myself of that when I am so sleepy and just want a shower... :)

Lisa Leonard Necklaces

2010-03-16T10:38:00.002-04:00

I absolutely love all things made by Lisa Leonard! Well, I just love hand stamped jewelry anyway, but Lisa's stuff is just so creative and beautiful... Anyway, check out her newest necklace created for Mommy's who have lost a sweet little one. It's just so sweet and such a fantastic idea! I know I have never lost a child, but speaking as one who has suffered a great loss in losing my Dad, I would say that having something tangible to grasp onto to remind you of that person... well, it just really is comforting! If you know anyone who might be blessed by this necklace, pass the word on to them to go leave a comment on her blog because she will be giving 2 of these away!

This is the Day the Lord Has Made

2010-01-03T20:17:00.003-05:00

I really wanted to post something about my Dad on the 30th, but just couldn't bring myself to do it. In the past, I have found it very theraputic to blog on the "sad days" but on this anniversary of his death I just couldn't find words. I blame a lot of it on pregnancy hormones, but most of it is just that I really really miss him.

The thought that continually ran through my head the week of Christmas and the anniversary of our loss, was that even that day was the day the Lord had made. Even though I think the verse in Psalm 118 is talking about a specific day, the Lord did still make each day. He determined before hand what things would take place on those days. He knew, before my Dad was even created in his mothers womb, that December 30th, 2006. would be the day he would join Him in eternity. Even the worst day of my life, was the day (and the way) the Lord had made it.

I continually have to remind myself that this great loss was not meant as evil towards me (or my family), but was meant for good for my Dad. Even though it doesn't take the pain away, or even make it less... it is still good for me to remember that my God is GOOD and not evil.

Thank you to all who remembered me on the 30th. I am just overwhelmed sometimes by the love and kindness of the people of God. You are all such a blessing to me! I have thought a lot about the number of people who blessed me at the time of Dad's death. Some in very practical ways, some with words, some with prayer, some with stories and memories, and some with shared tears... it's still an overwhelming thought! And the Lord continues to burden people's hearts to bless me even 3 years later!

My heart aches for Andy and Jenica as they have very fresh and real grief right now. Each loss is unique and painful in a specific way. No one can completely understand another's loss, but we can commit to pray the best we can for those who's arms are empty tonight. Please pray for this wonderful couple as they miss their sweet Daisy.

Christmas Post - From Josh

2009-12-24T20:29:00.002-05:00

In the ancient times, men who had knowledge of God yearned for a mediator who would intercede with God on their behalf - a mediator who would give them access to God.

They yearned for a redeemer who would atone for their sin and rid them of this evil, black stain that separated them from God.

They looked for the Messiah, who would restore Israel and rule with goodness, justice, and righteousness. He would right the wrongs, end the injustices, end the oppression of the weak and the poor, and punish with an iron rod those who did evil.

JOY! JOY! FOR CHRIST IS BORN! THE BABE, THE SON OF MARY!

The Son of God came into this world, and mankind now has free access to God! Sin has been atoned for once-for-all, and its shackles have been destroyed and thrown off those who believe in the dear Savior. The fate of this world and Satan is sure. This same Christ will come again, but it will not be as a meek, lowly baby. He will come in power and might. He will rule in glory. He will be called “King of kings and Lord of lords”. The wrongs and injustices of this world will be made right.

This Christmas, rejoice that the Savior has come! But don’t just look back and remember – look forward and hope! Darkness is growing in this world, but there is hope – a sure hope – that outshines any evil darkness or shadow. It may seem like a far off glimmer right now, but just like the sunrise that starts timidly in the east, His glory will fill this earth and chase all darkness from it. He is coming, again! Hallelujah!

Silly Sophie

2009-12-22T20:07:00.003-05:00

Sophie: "Take picture, Mommy"

Me: "Can you smile?"

Me: "This time can you smile real pretty?"

Me: "Okay, just stick out your tongue."

Me: "Now make a fish face." (which she does know how to do... not sure what this is supposed to be)

Sophie: "I silly Sophie."
Me: "Yep."

Two.

2009-12-19T22:37:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday to my beautiful, wonderful little girl!

(two photos on left taken by April Nienhuis)

Sick. Again.

2009-12-18T10:51:00.002-05:00

"So tired of being sick."

"Well, maybe it's not so bad..."

"No. This is just getting old!"

Okay, so maybe that's not really what she said, but that's how I feel about it! I love winter, but I'm ready for spring and fresh air and NO MORE SICK BABY!

I Love Fall.

2009-10-28T11:33:00.002-05:00

(so wish this one would have been in focus because it just shows how much fun she was having)

Gavin Baby

2009-10-20T23:30:00.003-04:00

Today I got to hang out with this cute little man while big brother and cousin Sophie went to BSF. This is one happy little man and pretty stinkin' cute too!

Growing Up

2009-10-17T18:49:00.002-04:00

The last couple of days Sophie has really been interested in picking out her own clothes. It's just so cute and funny. She brings me all this stuff and says "help, put on" and I just can't resist.

Here are two of her choices:

And we just can't get away from that cheesy smile when the camera is out. Oh well. That's Sophie and I wouldn't have it any other way!

Somedays...

2009-10-07T13:05:00.003-04:00

Somedays I'm doing okay.

Somedays I feel like my heart is being ripped right out of my chest.

Slowly but Surely

2009-10-01T16:16:00.006-04:00

Well, I'm slowly trying to rejoin the land of the living! It's been a rough few months with nausea and migraines, but I think I have finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel. Woo hoo! I'm almost 19 weeks and hoping to find out soon if this new little munchkin is a boy or girl. Marcie played around today trying to get a peek, but the little stinker wouldn't give us a good look. She did get some cute pictures though:

I like the little "thumbs up".

Now I just have to make the best of these last few months before life DRASTICALLY changes for us! We're so excited, but I do still feel a little sentimental about the fact that it will no longer be just me and Sophie during the days. I'm trying to soak up as much time with just her as I can! She is at such a fun age and talks my head off most days. She can count to 10 and knows her ABCs. We've been working on colors, but so far everything is yellow. She also wants to use the potty so bad she can hardly stand it! She just can't quite figure it out, which makes her very frustrated.

Maybe this is part of her trouble... :)

First day of BSF with Jayden and Nanny. She's little miss social and apparently talked the teacher's heads off.

Making My Own Clothes

2009-07-10T14:54:00.003-04:00

So, I have officially become a cheap person. I found this t-shirt online that I wanted SO bad, but it was $45! Okay, call me crazy, but I just can't justify spending $45 on anything let alone a t-shirt!

The "I can surely make this myself" mode kicked in and I picked up some Ink-Jet Iron-On stuff and a white t-shirt and went to work.

My total cost. $6. I'd say that's a little more like it. Of course I would have liked it for free, but you know... gotta loosen the purse strings a little. :)

It didn't turn out perfect, but good enough for now. I have more of the Iron-On stuff, so I might try again if I find a really good deal on another t-shirt.

Okay, so enough rambling. What do you think of my shirt?

(Yes, it does mean what you think it does...)

Sophie and Her Baby

2009-07-02T17:52:00.003-04:00

Sophie has this cute little baby that she pushes around in a stroller most of the day. She always stops, goes around to face the baby and says "hi baby". Then, she checks to make sure she's comfortable and goes on pushing. It's so cute! I know I've said it before, but I love this age!!!

Anyway, I tried to "capture the moment" between her and baby, but this was the best I could do.

In this shot she was giving the baby a hug and I couldn't get my camera adjusted fast enough. So, all I got was a cute Sophie and a blurry baby hanging at her side. ***sigh***

Then, I asked her if she could give me a pretty smile. This is what I got:

Silly Sophie. I love her so much.

Hope vs Reality

2009-06-25T14:27:00.005-04:00

My Dad really had a thing for t-shirts and hats that "served a purpose". For just about every holiday/birthday I would buy him one. The hat above was one of his favorites because it generated SO MANY conversations about the Lord. He loved that and always took advantage of the opportunity to share the gospel.

On Tuesday, our friends had the hard task of burying one they loved very much. I wept with them and for them, but I also just wept. So many things the speaker said still applied to me or made me think about my Dad. The speaker did such a great job of encouraging the family that it is okay to cry, to mourn, to miss this one they loved. He also made the comment that this one they loved had always believed there was a heaven, but now she KNEW there was a heaven. I had just never really thought about the fact that my Dad's Hope was now his Reality. That was just such a wonderful thought to me.

I can't wait for my Hope to become my Reality.

But if we hope for what we do not see, with perserverance we wait eagerly for it. Romans 8:25

Pray

2009-06-19T18:52:00.004-04:00

Please pray for my good friends Tim and Teresa (Mama T) and family (daughters Calista, Andrea and son Aaron). Tim's mom passed away this morning.

There is much power in prayer and only the Lord can soothe their very broken hearts. Thank you.

Big Girl

2009-06-18T21:01:00.002-04:00

I love the way these turned out, but at the same time I hate it that she looks so old! I can remember my Mom telling me "you're getting to big! stop growing so much!" And I would just laugh and say "I can't help it"! I didn't really understand what she meant. I just thought she was funny and maybe a little weird... :) I totally understand now. I just want my baby to stay my baby forever!

Once again I'm torn between color and BW. So, I just kept both.

He Was Simple. He Was Genuine.

2009-06-11T14:56:00.003-04:00

My Dad was simple, but he was genuine. I love that about him. Mom and I cleaned out some things from Dad's shop Monday. We came across some notes of his. I think they must have been something he shared during one of the meetings at church. Here is one that even though it made me miss him terribly... just really ministered to my heart.

This morning I would like to share with you something from a very small word, but with such a huge meaning. Joy.
Last week I began to learn the power of prayer. Through that power I just praise God for the day to day growth he allows. And the Joy and sense of security he gives. There's no Joy on this earth, from worldly source, like the Joy that glows in the heart of a believer in Jesus Christ. The Word of God has the power to produce joy. In Jeremiah 15:16 it says "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart." And Jesus said in John 15:11 "These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full." It's very clear the fullness of joy comes through the Word of God. This joy comes as we feed on the Word of God and as the Word of God is engraved in our hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit. Patience, comfort, and hope also come from the Word. I thank God so much for these. Romans 15:4 says, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope."

Baby Announcement

2009-06-11T09:45:00.003-04:00

Well, everyone has been making all these "baby announcements" and I just felt left out... So, it's my turn now!

Meet our newest "babies":

What did you think I meant? :)

These 4 little guys have taken up residence in our mailbox. Everytime you open the door their little heads pop up with mouths open wide, squawking for food. They are so cute! But it will be nice to have our mailbox back...

Quilt Club

2009-06-04T16:40:00.002-04:00

Interested in learning how to make a simple, yet fabulous quilt? Visit Sugar Booger Designs for more details.

Even if you have very limited sewing skills, you could still definitely participate. It would be a great chance to practice sewing a straight line! I still have a hard time with that... :)

Picnic with our Nature Baby

2009-05-29T16:10:00.004-04:00

We love to go on picnics. Sophie thinks eating outside is so fun. Plus this girl just likes to roam free in the great outdoors. She's quite the nature baby. Except when it comes to lady bugs. She's terrified of them. Giant birds land in our yard and she chases the with no fear, but a teeny lady bug crawls across the patio and she runs screaming the other way! Silly girl.

Anyway, I was talking about picnics...

Who said cheese quesadillas weren't good picnic food?!

Ah, the "Mom, I'm trying to eat... leave me alone for crying out loud" look.

Taking a stroll with Daddy. I love seeing them together like this. Makes me feel like I'm going to burst with joy!

Birthday Boy

2009-05-27T15:26:00.003-04:00

Wow, I have really been neglecting both my blogs. Summer hits and there just seems to be so many fun things to do outside of the house, that all the indoor things move to the back burner. We have been spending lots of time outside. Sophie got a water table and she LOVES it. She dumps buckets of water all over herself and just squeals and laughs. It's so much fun to see her enjoying the outdoors.

Jayden turned 3 on the 18th. He's just getting so big and is just as cute as ever!

Baby brother enjoyed the party too. Snuggles from all kinds of people... what more can you ask for?! How cute is this little chunky monkey?!

And of course, Sophie enjoyed the party. She was mostly interested in roaming. She was so afraid I was going to pick her up and make her leave that she would run the opposite direction any time she saw me. I was only trying to take her picture! I had to run way ahead of her and snap fast before she did a 180. Most of those shots just turned out blurry... I did get a couple of her enjoying her cousin Kalie and uncle Jerry, though (you can't actually see Jerry, but that is who she is smiling at). Isn't Kalie so pretty?! I love her hair!

Photos are Hard to Take These Days...

2009-05-20T14:56:00.001-04:00

because someone would rather play with the camera than stand still to let me take her picture! ***sigh*** Maybe one of these times I will get lucky and get an in-focus shot of her again...

Senior Photos

2009-05-08T16:48:00.003-04:00

So, I took a shot at senior photos this past weekend. Meet Evan, my someday to be step-brother... (in case you aren't friends with my Mom on Facebook, she is ENGAGED!!! More details and hopefully photos on that later.)

Anyway, back to Evan. He was so much fun and I think we got a few shots that he really liked in spite of the rainy weather. Oh, and we almost got hit by a train. In the ghetto. Yep, good times.

Evan's favorite:

(yes, I know I chopped his hand... really annoyed me)

Hello?

2009-05-05T08:56:00.002-04:00

Well, I'm feeling like a lazy blogger, but all I have to post about right now is Sophie. She is pretty much my entire day, so I don't have much else to talk about... I love it though!

Sophie loves talking on the phone. To no one. She can carry on quite a conversation. She starts out by saying hello (sounds more like hewow) and then chatters in her own language and laughs. This age is just so much fun!

She also likes you to talk to her "friend on the other line". Here she is sharing phone time with her Daddy.

She also LOVES to play outside (although we haven't been able to for going on 2 weeks now... stupid rain). She collects rocks and makes little piles like this one:

I guess you have to be a mommy to understand just how cute this pile of rocks is to me...

And here she is with her ornery face because she is pretending like she wants to go inside, but as soon as I stand up to walk that way she will take off running and saying "no".

Huge Event!

2009-04-27T16:36:00.002-04:00

So, this Thursday Josh will be 30! Old fart, I know. :)

Anyway, I thought it might be fun to hear some of your favorite stories/memories of Josh. I know you all have at least one! That means those of you who are "lurkers" will have to participate too. Those of you who have hubbies that are friends with Josh, get them to sign on as you and post a story too. It will be so fun to read (and I'm sure laugh at) all your stories.

Want a Free Apron???

2009-04-20T21:30:00.004-04:00

Enter to win this apron at SugarBoogerDesigns!

Coupon

2009-04-20T10:30:00.005-04:00

I was going through our bookcase to see if there were any books we never read that I could get sell. I pulled out this book of poems by Amy Carmichael and saw that there were several bookmarks in it. I opened it up at one of the bookmarks and this is what I found:

Mom made me this little coupon booklet one year for my birthday (before I was married). I had really wanted this modern, steel bed frame I had seen in a magazine. Dad said he could make it for me really easily. So, that was one of the birthday "coupons" I received. I never did redeem it, though. I really hate it when I let coupons expire...

The poem that this was bookmarking, was:

I Will Refresh You
Heart that is weary because of the way,
Facing the wind and the sting of the spray,
Come unto Me, and I will refresh you.

Heart that has tasted of travail and toil,
Burdened for souls whom the foe would despoil,
Come unto Me, and I will refresh you.

Heart that is frozen -- a handful of snow,
Heart that is faded -- a sky without glow,
Come unto Me, and I will refresh you.

Heart that is weary, O come unto Me.
Fear not, whatever the trouble may be;
Come unto Me, and I will refresh you.

Coincidence? I don't believe in those.

I Want!

2009-04-17T21:55:00.003-04:00

Check out these shoes! I'm in love.

I want a pair of each!!!

And Sophie needs these, don't you think?! If only her feet didn't grow so fast, I could justify spending $34 on a pair of shoes for her. Okay, no I couldn't. I couldn't even justify spending that on a pair of shoes for me. I can dream though, right?

The cool thing about this shoe company is that for every pair of shoes purchased, the company donates a pair to someone in need. Pretty cool.

It's the End of an Era...

2009-04-11T20:23:00.003-04:00

Hop on over to Josh's blog and give your condolences. And say good bye to Chewie. **sniff sniff**

Snow Day

2009-04-06T12:07:00.001-04:00

Baby Brother

2009-03-27T10:19:00.004-04:00

My baby brother is 16 today! That's crazy!!!

Sophie LOVES her Uncle JC (or Uncle "This" as she calls him). He spent the night with us Monday and she was SOOOO excited. She only wanted to be with him and he's so sweet and doesn't let her annoy him. He even let her help him text people. It was so cute!

Well, Happy Birthday baby brother! I love you!!!

PRAY PRAY PRAY

2009-03-25T21:23:00.002-04:00

I posted a "button" over to the right yesterday, but just had the thought that many of you only tune into Bloglines and might not see it.

So, I figured I needed to make a post to bring your attention to this.

Please pray for baby Stellan!!!

You can go to the link above or click on the button to the right to read the full story on this sweet little baby, but here's the summarized version:

Stellan was diagnosed with SVT (a heart condition) while in the womb. His parents were told that he would not live. He was born completely healthy with no heart issues at all. Now, at 5 months old he has suddenly had to be admitted to PICU with very serious heart issues. He has been in and out of V-Tach (NOT GOOD) and they can not get his heart to slow down (it is beating at 200-300 bpm).

I will stop there. Just know that this baby is in a very, very serious condition. Please stop what you are doing right now and pray for him. I know that the Lord already knows the end of all this, but I also know that there is great power in prayer. How those two go together, I don't know... I just trust the Lord who does know.

How Cute is This?!

2009-03-19T21:48:00.001-04:00

Oh. My. Goodness.

How cute is my girl?! I mean really... is this not cute?!

Enjoying the Warm Weather

2009-03-19T09:37:00.002-04:00

We decided to go for a picnic Monday because it was SO beautiful outside. After a little bit of fried chicken, we wandered around trying to get squirrels to come to us. Sophie thought they were dogs.

Can you tell how much she loves being in the carseat... *note sarcasm* Doesn't she just look completely annoyed?

Experimenting with Texture

2009-03-18T08:42:00.002-04:00

Thought I would try out some textures like the fabulous April talked about on her blog. (For some reason I can't link to the exact post, but if you go to her blog, scroll all the way down and click "older posts" twice you will find the post I'm talking about.)

Now, I know I broke the "subtilty is key" rule, but I really wanted these to look dramaticly old. I can't decide on the stop sign one if I should go back and adjust the opacity a little more so it isn't quite so dark... what do you think? Is it too much, or does it just look really oldish?

Why Do These Things Happen?

2009-03-16T22:03:00.004-04:00

Josh and I were walking through Woodward Park today and as we were leaving, I walked over this:

"Pa" is what we called my Dad. So, why do things like this happen? Is it just chance or coincidence that I would walk over that word just randomly on the sidewalk? Why did I even notice it? I don't really know. I think, but I don't know... Well, regardless, it was reason for me to smile today. And take a photo. And realize I need to paint my toe nails. Or not wear flip flops.

Thank you Lord for sidewalks that say "Pa".

Provisions from the Lord

2009-03-10T15:13:00.003-04:00

I haven't been "doing the Walgreen's deals" lately because they just haven't seemed worth my time. Well, this week was a different story! Holy cow, was it ever.

What I came home with:
**12 pk Scott Tp
**4 boxes Kraft Mac and Cheese
**8 bags of Huggies (and because I know someone will notice the size and think "hmmmm... why is she buying size 1 diapers?" It's only because that's the only size they had left. I plan on exchanging them.)
**4 bottles of Garnier Fructis Shampoo
**1 Colgate toothpaste
**1 Crest toothpaste
**Electrasol Tablets
**3 pks Orbit gum
**2 rolls of paper towels
**2 bottles of WG Ibuprofen
**2 bottles of WG Rapid Release 'tylenol'

Total before sales and coupons - $122.69 (before tax)
I also received a $25 gift card just for transferring a perscription. So, combine that with my coupons and I paid only $25.57 (before tax) out of pocket!
AND I still have $15 in Register Rewards (same as cash at Walgreens) to put towards another purchase!!!

I would call that a provision from the hand of God! I am so thankful for the way he provides for us.

Funny Girl

2009-03-10T09:27:00.002-04:00

I know that there is nothing technically right with these two photos, but I love them.

Me: Sophie, can I change your diaper?
Sophie: NO! (then she makes a mad dash to hide)

Here is her hiding spot. She's so sneaky... I think she honestly thought I couldn't find her.

This is what she does most of the day. She pushes things around the house. Usually she is standing, but it's early and we're still being lazy.

She's constantly on the go, so I don't have time to adjust the settings on my camera and still capture the memories I want to keep. Sometimes I get lucky. Today, not so much, but at least I captured the momoent...

In the Mood to Remember

2009-03-09T22:06:00.004-04:00

I have been in the mood to remember fun things about my Dad. Sometimes it is just really hard and painful to remember, but other times it's just fun. Since this has always seemed to be my outlet for these things, I thought I would share some memories. Here are the first 5 that popped in my head today. Those of you who knew him might enjoy these. Please share funny stories of him that you might have!

**When I was little and would have friends over, he would always ask them their name. They would tell him and then he would say “Harold? Your name is Harold?” They would get so frustrated and repeat their name. He would finally just laugh and say “okay, have fun Harold.”

**He LOVED to scare us. I can think of two really funny (now they’re funny) incidents and both involve my cousin Jenn Hall. One night we were jumping on the trampoline (at night) which was out behind our house. We had a wrap around deck, so Dad climbs under the deck at the front of the house and crawls all the way around to the back. Then, he jumps out screaming as loud as he can. I just screamed and fell on the trampoline, but Jenn flew off the trampoline screaming at the top of her lungs and started running away as fast as she could. I think he almost threw up he was laughing so hard. The other incident was when we were about 9 and were in the process of moving onto our land out in the boonies. Jenn and I convinced my parents to let us sleep in the trailer out there all alone. We couldn’t believe they let us! We were doing fine and having fun playing when we heard a knock at the door. Jenn falls to the floor in a panic (Jenn, you were a chicken!) and I was scared, but still (stupidly) just walked to the door. I didn’t see anyone. This happened about 3 times. I was starting to panic too. Finally the last time I peeked out I could see my mom hiding by the porch. Apparently Dad would knock and then jump off the porch. They were watching us through the window! Mom finally felt bad enough that she let us see her. Needless to say, we went home with them. Dad said what he really wanted to do was to climb through one of the back bedroom windows with a white sheet on and come running down the hall. I think we would have just fallen over dead! Thankfully, Mom was with him and wouldn’t let him be that mean.

**While driving in the car, he loved to lean over and wave at no one. Then, he would crack up when you looked to see who he was waving at. People usually only fell for it once. Jamie (April’s sis) always fell for it, which just egged him on!

**Another car thing of his was to ask you if you knew how many people were dead in that cemetery. The response was usually a number like 250, or something. He would then reply “all of them.” The next time you were with him, he’d ask the same question but making sure there was someone alive walking around in the cemetary. Thinking we were on to him, we would say “all of them.” Then, he would reply “no, that person is alive.” Then, he’d do his “hee hee” ornery laugh.

**He was so much fun out on the lake! He loved to get people out on the tube and try to throw them as far and hard as he could. It was SO much fun! Probably the most fun I have ever had was out on the lake with him.

This was fun. Maybe I will do a "remembering him" day each week... I'll have to think about that.

Where's My Daddy???

2009-03-09T16:15:00.000-04:00

Giveaway at V and Co.

2009-03-02T08:49:00.005-05:00

Vanessa at V and Co. is doing a giveaway (see photo above). I LOVE Moda fabric. So pretty!(she's the one who did the awesome rag rug tutorial I posted on the Sugar Booger Designs blog.)

Help Me Decide

2009-02-26T13:25:00.002-05:00

I can't decide which of these I like best... The first is the original and it is definitely my least favorite. So, I guess it's out of the last 3 that I am having trouble picking a favorite! What do you guys think?

(Original)

(Black and White)

(Sepia)

(Vintage)

"The Best Picture That's Ever Been Taken"

2009-02-25T11:15:00.004-05:00

Andrea commented on how this photo that April took is "the best picture that's ever been taken". And while I agree that it is quite good, I would have to argue that the photo below might just take first place...

I don't know. What do you think?

You Just Won't Believe It.

2009-02-20T20:30:00.001-05:00

Andrea, you just won't believe it... Josh has started his blog again! But he promises to keep it fun and cheery this time.

Sunny Day

2009-02-17T21:54:00.002-05:00

It seems like every other day is warm and sunny and every other day is cold and windy. Oklahoma weather. The only thing predictable about it is it's unpredictability!

Anyway, here is Sophie girl enjoying some sun.

(I can't seem to get my template to take the normal sized Flickr photos, so if you want to see these better just click on them.)

No, she is still not walking. She can. She's just chicken. Also, I swear she does wear other clothes. It just seems like everytime I have taken pictures of her lately, she has had on this outfit!

For Your Viewing Pleasure...

2009-02-14T08:56:00.002-05:00

Feast your eyes on this cute little man!

We had a little "photo shoot" Monday and true to all men, he just wasn't that into it. And I just have to say, newborn photos are HARD! Andrea, I have a greater appreciation for what you do...

Ric Rac

2009-02-04T15:51:00.004-05:00

Sophie girl sporting her "pretty" and being a little silly.

And of course, the only one that was actually in focus was overexposed. So, BW saved the day (I think, anyway). My template must be messed up again because it's cutting off the right side of my photos. Arg! Just when I think I've got my blog like I think I want it! Ah well. I'll mess with it another day. :o)

Today is Someone's Birthday

2009-02-03T15:34:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday, Marcie!

Under Construction...

2009-02-03T13:16:00.000-05:00

Ever Heard of a Goat Being Arrested?

2009-01-27T09:49:00.002-05:00

Josh sent this article to me yesterday. Really cracked me up!

Happy Heavenly Birthday

2009-01-26T18:47:00.002-05:00

Today is my Dad's birthday. I have been thinking back and laughing at how hard it was to find a gift every year for my Dad. We would ask him what he wanted and he would always say something like socks or handkerchiefs, or he would just say "oh, I don't need a thing... so don't worry about it". I usually just made him peanut butter cookies and got him something silly like a John Wayne DVD.

I know he was never disappointed in the gifts we gave him, but I have been thinking about 1 Peter 2:6 a lot today. It says "he who believes in Him will not be disappointed". I just keep thinking about how NOT disappointed he is in the gift of Salvation that he received. I know that all of us that believe in the Lord as our Savior are not disappointed, but my Dad truly understands the meaning of that verse right now!

Happy birthday, Dad.

So Cute!

2009-01-24T17:49:00.001-05:00

You should go see how CUTE my new nephew is!!!

Really Great Article

2009-01-22T11:42:00.002-05:00

Kimberly posted this really great article and I just can't stop thinking about it. Please take time to read it. I promise that it will encourage you!

Contest

2009-01-21T18:38:00.001-05:00

Break out your corny jokes and head on over to Sugar Booger Designs for a chance to win a Tote Bag.

A Little Sophie

2009-01-20T21:30:00.003-05:00

Admit it, you would too.

I love the "happy legs" in this shot.

Not sure what was up, but she just kept crawling around going "blah" and sticking her tongue out.

See what I mean?!

And again...

I know I already have a shot like this, but it's just so cute when they look up at you like this!

This is what she does when I am sewing and not looking. She can empty a bookshelf quite quickly!

This is Noah and his wife. They are teeny, little wooden people that she loves to carry around with her. I just think it's so cute.

Yikes.

2009-01-12T17:12:00.002-05:00

For just 2 simple payments of $29.99 this "thing" could be yours. Holy cow. Who would buy this?! Jenn V, I think you should buy this since it's name is Claire...

Baby Gavin

2009-01-09T21:20:00.003-05:00

Since we are still a houseful of sickies, I haven't gotten to see the new little sweetie... But Mom took these shots today so at least I can show how cute baby Gavin is! (I think he looks just like Jayden did. It's crazy!)

He's Here!

2009-01-09T09:30:00.002-05:00

Randy Gavin (will go by Gavin) was born via c-section sometime around 12:30 last night. They didn't tell me how long he was, but he weighed 7lbs 6oz. He's healthy and Ashlee is doing great too! Praise the Lord!

JR said that he made it with just 2 minutes to spare, so we are praising the Lord for that too!

Hopefully I will have pictures to share soon! I can't wait to meet him!

Baby Burger

2009-01-08T22:43:00.001-05:00

Please pray for JR and Ashlee tonight. She was scheduled to have a c-section on the 14th, but has gone into labor. She is delivering at the Indian Hospital in Claremore and they do not perform VBACs, so this is not good. I don't know yet whether they are going to try to stop her contractions and wait until morning or do the c-section tonight.

Also, JR is in Arkansas on a job. So, he is on his way now.

So, pray for safety for Ashlee and baby, wisdom for doctors, and safety for JR. Hopefully we will have a new little man soon!

Another Vintage Post

2009-01-08T16:09:00.001-05:00

There is just something so cute about little girls and dolls!

Comfort Food

2009-01-06T22:16:00.002-05:00

Sophie girl is sick again! I haven't been able to get her to eat much of anything, except Sweet Potato Puffs. She loves those things. Here is how she enjoys her comfort food:

Apparently they taste better off the floor.

Like her outfit? When your sick you just don't care what you have on and neither does momma!

Sleepy Baby

2008-12-31T15:40:00.002-05:00

How Can It Be...

2008-12-31T00:38:00.001-05:00

...that she will never know him? I just have felt so overwhelmed with that thought. We drove out to the cemetery today because I just felt like I needed to take Sophie out there. I know that "he" isn't there, but the part of him that would hold her and tickle her and love on her is there.

I sit and wonder if he can see her. If he can see how much we miss him. Obviously I can't think outside of my human capacity. Maybe he can, maybe he can't. Maybe it wouldn't really matter if I could know all things. I just feel so tired of being sad and confused. I feel so tired of missing him. I really, honestly thought that by now it wouldn't hurt so much and that I wouldn't still cry so much! Sometimes it's just so frustrating. I still have a hard time wrapping my mind around the fact that it's been 2 years since I have talked to my Dad. Sometimes it feels like just yesterday and other times I struggle to remember what he sounds like.

I do have to say that once again, the anticipation of the "day" was much worse than the actual "day". This past week has been really hard. Then, today comes and it wasn't anything like I thought it would be! I know that it was because the Lord heard the prayers of some wonderful people. I was so blessed by the many people telling me that they remembered and were praying. I have some pretty great friends and family. Thank you. I love you.

Today as we were driving through the country I was thinking back to the days right after Dad died. I remembered going through this little bag of "things" he had saved. They were things I had given him and he kept them in his sock drawer. As I was going through the bag, I pulled out a little booklet and noticed that there was something inside it. It was a toothpick. My Dad loved toothpicks. Of course, I started to cry because I had forgotten about how he liked toothpicks. Josh reminded me that things don't just happen. I'm so thankful to the Lord for that little toothpick. Isn't that funny how something small and silly like that could be so special. Even though I struggle to understand why all this has happened and question the Lord at times, He is still so good to give me these little, special things like toothpicks.

Sugar Booger Designs

2008-12-25T12:13:00.003-05:00

Well, it has begun and I am nervous... I have officially decided to sell my creations under the name of Sugar Booger Designs. I chose this name in memory of my Dad. He called me Sugar Booger up until the day he died. This will always be so special to me.

I have been feeling pretty down lately and needed something to be happy about. So, I thought "what better time than now (on Christmas day) to get this thing going"!

My goal is to keep the blog updated on a regular basis with fun facts, tutorials, projects, and maybe even "give aways"! I hope to also open up a shop on Etsy to sell some of my "creations". I'm just praying that this will be a fun distraction plus a way to earn a little extra moolah.

I would love to also feature other people's creativity. So, if you have anything fun that you are working on and want to show it off, receive a little encouragement, and well, just give me something to post about... send it my way!

Daddy's Girls

2008-12-24T21:00:00.000-05:00

Finally Home

2008-12-22T10:22:00.004-05:00

Thanks, Mom. This is such a pretty song!

Finally Home by Mercy Me

My Little Birthday Girl

2008-12-19T20:40:00.004-05:00

I can't believe my sweet little girl is one today! Can it be possible that we have had her that long?! Everyday brings something new and I am having so much fun watching her learn new things. She is such a happy baby and brings me so much joy. I can't believe how blessed I am to be her momma. I love every day I have to enjoy her.

She loves to read.

Of all the great toys she got for her birthday, this little plastic bottle was probably her favorite. She gets so excited when she finds it in her toy basket and immediately puts it in her mouth like this. She'll carry it around like this for quite a while.

This is about the only shot I got from her birthday. I will try to snag some of April's to post later. They are really cute!

Hop on Over

2008-12-18T10:12:00.002-05:00

...to Josh's blog and watch this video. It makes me laugh every time!

Still the Same

2008-12-16T22:19:00.003-05:00

This post on Radical Womanhood really ministered to me today.

These three lines really stood out to me:
"Father, don't ever let me look at my life and question Your love for me. Your love for me was settled on the cross. That has never changed and will never change."

No matter what your circumstances are, God's love never changes. The cross, the death of Jesus Christ, and His resurrection are God's final, total, and complete expression that He loves you. Never allow your heart to question God's love.

His triumph does not mean our trials are over in this life, but they are most certainly driving to a glorious conclusion. Let us fix our eyes on that certainty, instead of the momentary tribulations of this brief life.

I just love that no matter what I feel and how things may DRASTICALLY change in my life, He is always the same. He still died for me. He still loves me. He is still on the throne. I may feel completely broken and unable to even put my feet on the ground, but He is still the same Lord and Savior to me that he was 2 years ago. This doesn't take away my sorrows and my pain, but I think it is so good to remind myself (outloud) that even so... I still know these things to be true.

Challenge

2008-12-16T09:03:00.003-05:00

There is a blog that Marcie introduced me to a while back that is so encouraging. The blog was originally started because they found out the child she was carrying would not live after birth. Since that time she has become such an encouragment to so many (me included). Although, I can't relate to the loss of a child, we do have grief in common.

(Some of you may be familiar with Selah. Her husband is one of the singers - Todd.)

Anyway, all that to say that she has challenged her readers to memorize Psalm 139 in 18 days. I don't think I am up for the 18 day thing, but I love the idea of memorizing that Psalm! Anyone else up for the challenge? It's only 24 verses...

So, How Was Your Night?

2008-12-15T13:46:00.001-05:00

Mine was a little like this...

FREE YOUR PHONE - ZEDGE.NET

Look Out NY Times, Here I Come

2008-12-15T09:35:00.002-05:00

(Yeah right... a girl can dream though, right?!) Anyway, love the way these shots turned out! Nate and Rachel invited us to join them at the Tulsa Christmas Parade. It was a pretty great parade. A little crowded, but I loved the fact that it was at night.

(Somehow Nate ended up in all these shots. Not my intention, he was just always there!)

Conversation With God

2008-12-14T20:38:00.002-05:00

Tonight I found myself having a not so silent conversation with the Lord. I just kept saying "WHY"? Then, all of the sudden, I recalled the many times I had had that conversation with my Dad. His answer was usually "because I said so". And that was the end of the conversation as far as he was concerned.

I just took this as the Lord's way of saying to me "because I said so, and that is enough". End of conversation.

Ever feel this way? :o)

Blog Under Construction

2008-12-13T11:57:00.001-05:00

I'm working on my own template and it's not going so good, but I am DETERMINED! :o) So, the blog may look a bit screwy for a few days. Hopefully I will survive this obsession...

Joy

2008-12-12T10:54:00.001-05:00

Even when I'm sad, God has given me joy in this sweet, silly little girl who asks me "what's that" all day long.

Small Town Southern Man

2008-12-11T11:27:00.005-05:00

I have been missing my Dad so much these past few weeks. I hate it that he won't be at my little girls first birthday. My Mom pointed this song out me. It reminds us SO much of my Dad! They wouldn't let me imbed the video here, but here is the link if you're interested. Those of you who knew him will understand why we like this so much.

Small Town Southern Man
Born the middle son of a farmer
And a small town Southern man
Like his daddy's daddy before him
Brought up workin' on the land
Fell in love with a small town woman
And they married up and settled down
Natural way of life if you're lucky
For a small town Southern man

First there came four pretty daughters
For this small town Southern man
Then a few years later came another
A boy, he wasn't planned
Seven people livin' all together
In a house built with his own hands
Little words with love and understandin'
From a small town Southern man

Chorus:
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
(He) was always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones you leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man
(Raised on the ways and gentle kindness)
(Of a small town Southern man)

Callous hands told the story
For this small town Southern man
He gave it all to keep it all together
And keep his family on his land
Like his daddy, years wore out his body
Made it hard just to walk and stand
You can break the back
But you can't break the spirit
Of a small town Southern man

Finally death came callin'
For this small town Southern man
He said it's alright 'cause I see angels
And they got me by the hand
Don't you cry, and don't you worry
I'm blessed, and I know I am
'Cause God has a place in Heaven
For a small town Southern man

Pretty People

2008-11-24T23:46:00.002-05:00

This church reminded us of the Sound of Music, so Wendy had this idea. I love it!

This is what happens when I try to be creative... It looked better in my head, but I still like it.

Gotta love the candid moments.

Kaylie and I decided to play for a bit too.

Okay, I'll stop now. It's way past my bedtime!

Being Stuck Under a Chair is FUN!

2008-11-18T17:13:00.001-05:00

I just love her silly teeth!

For Those of You Who Like Things FREE

2008-11-17T14:51:00.003-05:00

Reasor's now offers free amoxicillin regardless of whether or not you have insurance. So, next time you need antibiotics request that your doctor prescribe amoxicillin. Then, head on over to Reasor's (if you have one nearby) for some free drugs!

He is Still On the Throne

2008-11-01T08:15:00.004-05:00

(I read this on a blog that Marcie introduced me to call Bring the Rain. What she wrote was such a needed reminder to me this week.)

His name is Jesus, and He gives.
His name is Jesus, and He takes away.
And in all of the wondering why some is the former and some is the latter, we know this to be true, whether we are grieving or rejoicing.
He is still on the throne.

Hard Times (is there a purpose) by Hayden Burger

2008-10-31T21:13:00.002-05:00

When God lets you go through hard times I think of it as a vaccination (an injection that produces a mild form of disease in order to help build up an immunity to it) as if God is building your strength if it happens to you or someone close to you.

(Hayden is my 12 year old cousin and he wrote this for my mom after studying vaccinations at school.)

New Addition to the Family

2008-10-27T11:34:00.008-05:00

And this time it isn't a stuffed animal...

Meet little Mr. Drew Martin who was born on October the 20th! What a cute little guy!

(BTW, to those of you who don't recognize the Martin name, Drew's momma is Josh's sister Holly.)

Road Trip

2008-10-25T20:03:00.003-04:00

Today was a beautiful day, so we decided to take a little road trip to the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska. It's one of Josh's favorite places and Sophie had yet to experience it.

Here she is checking out her first buffalo sighting. She was more interested in the truck steering wheel...

We took a little hike (in a non-buffalo zone) and I remembered how out of shape I am!

Blast the full sun! Worst time of the day to take pictures. Oh well.

And then there is the grass. Lot's of grass.

We finished off our day eating at Bad Brad's. YUM! My favorite BBQ joint discovered by my Dad about 13 years ago. If ever we had the option of eating out, Bad Brad's was our first choice even if it was an hour drive. It was definitely my Dad's favorite place to eat. It even inspired the design of the house we built in Cleveland! So, anyway, we had to take a picture of Sophie's first trip to Bad Brad's. Wish Pa could have been there...

Obsessed

2008-10-23T20:55:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I am obsessed with this whole "vintage processing" thing. I'm sure in 10 years I will look back on these and think "what were you thinking!? That's why I'm saving all my originals. Just in case...

Humble Family

2008-10-15T17:26:00.002-04:00

Pray for April's family over the next few days. Her grandma passed away this afternoon. She was a believer and had suffered from the effects of a stroke for many years. Her husband passed away several years ago, too. All that to say that she was ready to pass from this old world into the arms of the Lord!

There are quite a few of April's relatives that I can think of that need the Lord. This is one of those times when He can do a mighty work!

Pray that the Lord might comfort all.

I Love April...

2008-10-13T17:32:00.002-04:00

...she teaches me things. Like how to do vintage processing. I LOVE IT!

Oh.My.Goodness.

2008-10-12T22:17:00.001-04:00

I was shopping on Amazon and came across THIS!

Yikes!

For All You Preggos

2008-10-12T20:42:00.002-04:00

I saw this on a blog and it made me laugh. So, this is for all you preggos out there! Hope you're having a good, comfortable and puke-free day!

Randy Bear

2008-10-06T16:57:00.003-04:00

For my birthday after Dad died, Wendy got me a gift card to Build A Bear. I always talked about how I wanted to go (remember I have an obsession with stuffed animals - ask Josh, he will verify). Anyway, I never remembered to take the card with me when I was at the mall until last week. It was the perfect time. We're coming up on a rough time of year (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Anniversary of his death, and his birthday) so this was so theraputic. I was so thankful that Marcie was with me because she understood how special this was to me.

My dad was a cowboy at heart and up until just a few years ago, always wore boots and a hat. So, I thought it appropriate that Randy Bear be a cowboy. Isn't he so cute?!

Apparently Sophie doesn't share my stuffed animal obsession. She would rather chew on Josh's toes.

Can't Pick a Favorite...

2008-10-03T18:40:00.002-04:00

... so I kept them all.

I know this one is blurry, but for some reason I really like it that way.

Little Miss Elisa

2008-10-02T22:10:00.003-04:00

Miss Elisa came over to play on Monday and I have to say that if all kids were that easy to babysit, I would do it for a living! If you have to volunteer to watch a kid, pick this one!

This girl just made herself right at home. Her favorite of Sophie's toys was this little tea set. She just kept pouring her "air" tea and drinking it up.

This picture below is the look she gave me when I tried to play with her. Doesn't this just look like she's thinking "Do you mind... I'm having fun on my own." It cracked me up. So, I let her play alone. She was happier that way. Apparently I'm boring!

Sophie pretty much just followed her around waiting for her to let her guard down. Then, she swooped in and grabbed a handful of hair. I was never fast enough to prevent it and just apologized over and over to Elisa. She gave me that look again. When Grace came to get her and asked if she played with Sophie, all she did was reach up and grab her hair. I felt so bad!

Innocent? Ha.

What's Wrong With This Child?!

2008-09-24T22:09:00.002-04:00

(taken by Josh)

Juice

2008-09-17T11:03:00.001-04:00

"I love my juice"

"Don't touch my juice."

Cousins

2008-09-11T21:25:00.003-04:00

Jayden and Sophie are finally starting to be able to interact with each other, which makes Jayden very happy. Sophie just loves to watch him and you can tell she thinks he's pretty cool. He tries to take such good care of her by smashing the pacifier in her mouth, force feeding her juice, piling toys all over her, and so on. It's really cute because I know he is really trying to be sweet, even if it isn't what she wants.

Ahhh... snuggles.

Not sure what they were doing here, but apparently it was fun.

It's hard to smile for the camera and get your cousin to turn around at the same time!

Shortly after this, he sat on her head. I guess he wanted to show her what it would have been like to have a big brother.

Road Trip

2008-09-07T13:56:00.002-04:00

Sophie got to go on her first road trip and got to meet her Great Grandma Lindamood. She wasn't too crazy about sitting in the car seat for 3 hours, but she did okay. She slept most of the way home which was nice for all of us!

Uh, oh. Bad dog! Sam escaped the fence and had a blast getting as dirty as he possibly could. I think he was grounded to the porch for the rest of the day...

Hmmm...

2008-09-04T17:35:00.002-04:00

I think she is learning how to "pose" for the camera.

My Quote of the Day

2008-09-02T17:10:00.000-04:00

This must be what it's like to diaper a monkey.