RAISING SUPERHEROES

Violet Francis Tutu Shop

2011-06-16T23:00:00.001-04:00

The birth of my niece, Aubrey Dylan, began my love of tutu making.
What started out as a fun little hobby has turned into a small business adventure.
Here are a few of my latest creations. UNC Tarheels for baby Mia.

What Georgia Bulldog wouldn't look adorable in this?

Jillian Kate is going HAWG wild in this little number.

And Miss Lilah sporting the pink and zebra creation. Zebra print tulle is just about the cutest thing I have ever seen.

*I try to special order team ribbon whenever I see it.

*Holiday themes are also a hit.

*Special orders upon request.

Check out my shop by clicking the Violet Francis button to the left.

When "thank you" doesn't quite cut it....

2011-04-23T20:27:00.002-04:00

I love the whole week leading up to Easter.

Focusing on the price that was paid on my behalf by someone who did not deserve it.

Trying to wrap my mind around the love that held Jesus on the cross that day is impossible.

Listening to Scott talking to Luke about the significance of Good Friday

has been especially sweet this year.

Hearing Luke singing "Living He loved me, Die-N He saved me....." as loud as he can is adorable.

I am grateful that when Jesus was buried He carried my sins so far away.

Undeserving am I!

funny kid

2010-11-07T20:58:00.003-05:00

If you ask Luke to keep his eyes peeled for something

this will be his response,

"UGH I am NOT a banana!"

Yes he does a full eye roll with his UGH.

On a sad note.

Luke has informed us that he is no longer Lukester Boo.

He is JUST Luke Smith.

Sad, sad day.

VOTE

2010-11-02T10:21:00.003-04:00

"Impress upon children the truth that the exercise of the elective franchise is a social duty of as solemn a nature as man can be called to perform; that a man may not innocently trifle with his vote; that every elector is a trustee as well for others as himself and that every measure he supports has an important bearing on the interests of others as well as on his own. "

Daniel Webster, The Works of Daniel Webster (Boston: Little, Brown, and Company, 1853), Vol. II, p. 108.

"Now more than ever the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption."

James Garfield, "A Century of Congress" published in Atlantic, July 1877.

Can you imagine the impact?

2010-09-23T09:58:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago I heard my mom say how encouraged she has been to be in prayer

for the young dads we know.

It was very convicting to me.

It really made me face the fact that

I do not pray nearly enough for the father of my own children.

What a big job it is to be the spiritual leader of the home, the main example for two young boys. Truman is teaching my boys right now,

just with his own actions,

how to be a husband and a father.

That is huge.

It is not something to be taken lightly and I certainly have.

Not long after that conversation I was riding to work and heard this song.

It has had such an impact on me.

It has changed how I pray for my husband.

It has opened my eyes to areas I need to allow Truman to lead

instead of assuming he is too busy to deal with it.

It has reminded me to pray for my friends husbands.

I believe that lives will be changed.

God will move in a mighty way.

Wives will have better husbands.

Children will have better dads.

Husbands will be better leaders.

Humbled, encouraging, and loving LEADERS of their homes.

Search me, O God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

Point out anything in me that offends you,

and LEAD ME along the path of everlasting life.

Psalms 139:23-24

Luke's First Day

2010-09-02T06:23:00.003-04:00

Luke had a great first day of school.

I was so proud of him.
His teacher did say he watches his hands more than any child she has ever seen.
If that is the biggest issue he has, I will be a very happy mommy.

Luke's Meet the Teacher

2010-08-31T18:55:00.004-04:00

My baby is ready for school.

This evening we went to check out his classroom and meet his teachers. Someone is catching up quickly to his older brother.
Meeting new friends.

Checking out the new toys.

My baby is ready for school.

And this picture is just too handsome to not post.

He's a BRICKHOUSE

2010-08-26T17:55:00.003-04:00

What mom?

You are upset because I am THREE years old and wear size 6/7 pajamas.

And because I am wearing the same clothes that Scott wore six months ago.

And because I eat like a NFL star. What can I say mom?
I'm going to be a brickhouse!

reason for the smile

2010-08-19T17:07:00.002-04:00

Scott came home today with a huge smile on his face.

After all the discussion about his day he told me his reason for smiling.

There is a girl.

A girl named Isabella.

A girl so beautiful he could die.

(he did say his still misses Maddie)

I guess I should just be glad he is smiling.

Scott's first day of Kindergarten.

2010-08-18T12:54:00.003-04:00

How can you have such pride and be so sad at the same time?

There is no turning back now.

He is growing up.

meet the teacher's and Tru's first day of school

2010-08-17T19:49:00.002-04:00

It is back to school central at the Smith house.

Truman started today.

After having him home all summer it was quite different without him here.

It will be nice to figure out our new routine. Yesterday we went to meet Scott's teacher's.

I was so pleased and at peace.

This week has been a hard week for this mom.

Incredibly emotional.

Scott at his seat and his cubbie.

I will be posting many more pictures tomorrow.

Once I am done crying.

I'm in love.

2010-08-08T08:45:00.003-04:00

Aubrey Dylan has melted my heart and I haven't even met her yet.

I may be in trouble.

The fact that Scott is starting Kindergartern next week and Luke starting preschool soon has made me overly aware how quickly this life flies by.

I hate that I have to miss a second of her little life.

She is precious.

Her parents are talented, amazing people.

I cannot wait to see what this little girl is going to do.

boys will be....silly

2010-07-23T13:52:00.002-04:00

I love these silly Croc wearing, silly laughing, feeding each other, adorable boys.

Vacation Bible School

2010-07-21T12:50:00.001-04:00

just pictures

2010-07-18T19:50:00.002-04:00

show us your life- for the single ladies

2010-07-16T08:32:00.001-04:00

Meet my cousin Nathan.

He is a 25 year old Christian man, whom I think is amazing.

He is a Pharmacy tech at a Charlotte area hospital and has been for the last five years.

He graduated from college and is prayerfully applying for jobs as God leads.
I admire his integrity and loyalty.

Nathan has gone on missions trips across the world and serves at his local church.

My kids adore him and I appreciate his influence in their lives.

He loves the mountains and this little cabin in North Georgia.

He is conservative in politics.
He is knowledgeable.
A lover of sports, he may yell at the T.V. while watching games but he cannot help it.
Our whole family is that way.
He is funny in a dry, witty kind of way.
He is not only my cousin, he is my friend.

Q & A

1. What is your favorite place to visit and why?

The cabin because of the great memories and I love getting away anywhere peaceful. The mountains are beautiful.

2.What is your favorite meal?

Fresh snowcrab legs.

3.What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

I don't really have a favorite verse. There are many that have been meaningful at different times in my life. Micah 7:7 has been a favorite in the last several years.

old friends

2010-07-09T20:52:00.004-04:00

Old friends are great.

They come over and get attacked by your children and still smile. Your children are bad influences on their young impressionable child and they don't mind.
They are fine with letting the children eat on the ground in front of the television.

You can be yourself.

And know they will still love you at the end of the night.

Their child learns early that Crazy Aunt Megan always wants to take pictures.

"DAD CHEEEEESEEEE"

Old friends won't mind that your silly husband insists on wearing his

KERRY/EDWARDS campaign shirt YEARS after they lost.

See previous picture if you wonder what apple didn't fall too far from its tree.

I want to go so badly....

2010-07-07T20:00:00.002-04:00

show us your life, show us what you make

2010-07-02T08:40:00.003-04:00

GAME DAY TUTU'S University of Miami

GO CANES
Clemson Tigers

whatever team, whatever colors

goofy, party of two

2010-06-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

prepared

2010-06-29T12:41:00.003-04:00

There is a little boy ready to go to Elementary School at our house.

The fact that he did not want a character backpack broke my heart a little.

He wanted a BIG kid backpack.

swim lessons

2010-06-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

With all of the visits to the pool lately, we decided swim lessons were in order. Scott was on board and ready to roll, or kick or paddle...
The picture below is Luke's entire swim lesson activity.
The combination of a large pool and having to trust a stranger was a bit much for him.
Calling it terrified is a mild statement.
So he went and cheered on his brother.

Scott did excellent.

He was very outgoing and ready to try everything.

He worked on his skills at the pool in between lessons.

He wanted to impress his teacher.

And he did.

The instructor told me that one more week of lessons

and Scott would be swimming independently.

We are proud of our little swimmers.

Luke is a carefree soul, it wouldn't bother him a bit to be wearing floaties as a teenager.

No one is going to make up his mind for him.

catch up bullet list

2010-06-25T21:27:00.002-04:00

*the move went GREAT, we are loving our new city

*we have found a church, it isn't North Point but we are happy there

*I remain jobless, applying and praying. God knows all so why worry?

*mom and I went to St. Augustine for Aubrey Dylan's baby shower, what a loved little girl

*we had the boys FINAL birthday celebration, they milked birthdays for two months

*being close to family and friends again is Heaven on Earth

*Erin took me for my first IKEA experience, what a store!

*it is HOT, a few hours at the pool everyday makes for two tan little boys

*we found Luke a great school, we will attend four days a week which will give me time for my own school work

*Scott is anxious to start school but misses Maddie

*Luke says he "grandma's best buddy not yours" a few times a day

*we had to be extreme dream crushers and inform Scott that he is not in fact Spiderman. It was a sad morning but the line between pretend and reality was getting too fuzzy. We think we have reached some perspective on the subject.

(I promise to update more and include pictures of our new area for my faithful handful of readers)

The Cabin

2010-06-07T08:00:00.002-04:00

To most this cabin would not mean much.

It is old and needs repairs.

But to me, it is priceless.

It the place that reminds me most of Nanny.

It is the place she loved the most.

It is where I spent every summer with my family.

It is where 4 cousins slept on bunk beds, telling stories all night.

It is trips to the lake followed by running by the gas station to get an ice cream.

It is family singing around a fire.

It is front porch sitting.

It is laughing with old friends who share a rich heritage.

It is remembering the legacy of those who are no longer with us.

It is missing those who are no longer with us.

To me, it is priceless.

blogging funk

2010-06-06T15:49:00.002-04:00

So much has happened in the last two weeks.

So much I could blog about.

So many pictures to share.

YET

I've got nothing.

Class of 2010

2010-05-21T06:53:00.002-04:00

2010-05-18T08:16:00.001-04:00

back to school, back to school

2010-05-17T12:12:00.002-04:00

I have felt God leading me to go back to school.

Tried to ignore it.

Truman's school loans alone make me nervous.

Well not really because I KNOW God is in it.

He has made that very clear in ALL the details that have worked out.

Yesterday I finally decided to share with Truman

what I feel like God is telling me to do.

Now I can't ignore it.

Truman got pretty excited about.

He completed all my Financial Aid information out for me.

I applied today.

We will see where this goes.

I am learning to never make plans.

God usually has different ideas and much better endings.

the best nest

2010-05-16T16:13:00.003-04:00

My sweet boys have been pretending a lot lately.

The two of them entertain each other all day.

On this particular day they were being birds.

Check out their nests. Scott had just completed his nest.
He needed to rest after a busy few minutes of gathering supplies.
His wings were exhausted.

I hope Luke's chirping did not wake him.

field day

2010-05-11T20:39:00.002-04:00

my mom

2010-05-09T07:00:00.002-04:00

My mom is one of my very best friends.

Growing up, she didn't try to be my friend.

She was a parent.

A wonderful parent.

Holidays were a big deal even if we didn't have a lot of money.

Our house was decorated and over-flowing with baked goods.

I always knew that I mattered to my mom.

We talk every day, at least once.

She gives great advice.

She is hysterical.

She is wise.

She is generous.

She knows my heart.

She knows my strengths and weaknesses.

She is such an encourager.

She is simply amazing.

I hope to be just like her one day.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MOM!

I LOVE YOU.

my Mother's day song

2010-05-08T18:13:00.003-04:00

Scott wrote me a song for Mother's day.

Lyrics:

First in the morning when I wake up,

I fold my bed,

then run to my mother to tell her happy mother's day.

I love you mommy.

Show us your life- Kid's names

2010-05-07T08:07:00.002-04:00

When I was pregnant for the first time Truman and I we began the name conversation.

I was pretty set on Scott Douglas for a boy, which is my dad's name.

My dad is everything I hope my boys will be.

Truman has known my dad since he was three years old and knows what a daddy's girl I am,

so he did not mind the name.

It is a strong, traditional name.

We didn't want anything trendy.

Our Scott is his grandpa's biggest fan.

When I was pregnant for the second time we knew we wanted to honor Truman's

side of the family in some way.

If we had a girl her name would have been Ainsley Francis.

Francis was Truman's great-grandma's ("Mamaw") name.

Truman was Mamaw's pet.

They had a very special relationship.

Since I named Scott I let Truman come up with the name choices.

He chose Luke Edwin for a boy.

Edwin was his great-grandfather's name.

Other family members have used it as a first or middle name as well.

I have always loved the name Luke as well.

I think Truman just wanted to say

"Luke, I am your father!"

And he got his wish.

I wouldn't trade my boys for 100 girls.

what a Wednesday

2010-05-06T06:43:00.002-04:00

I scheduled Luke's 3 year old well visit at the same time Scott starts school.

Not sure what I was thinking but luckily Stacey is an amazing friend

and picked Scott up for school yesterday.

Luke and I headed off to get him checked out.

He is perfect.

65th percentile for height and weight.

His cholesterol is down from last year.

His vision is great.

His hearing is wonderful, leaving him no excuse for not listening.

Three shots and three stickers later we were off to Chickfila.

A little Christian chicken to reward his good behavior while getting examined.

After lunch we headed to school to pick up Scott and his friend Nicole.

Nicole and the boys played for a few hours until it was time to get three children

under the age of 5

OUTSIDE.

We met Maddie and Stacey at the park for almost two hours.

I left the park with three sweaty, smelly, adorable children.

Headed to McDonald's for some nutritious dinner and MORE playing.

It was a crazy, non-stop kind of day.

It was a great day.

Every time I get to sit and chat with Stacey at the park

while my kids burn a TON of energy

is a good afternoon in my book.

Both kids asleep by 8 was worth every second.

*just realized Luke had two meals yesterday at fast food establishments, that's me Mother of the year :(

something beautiful

2010-05-04T08:57:00.003-04:00

Something Beautiful from cedarcreek.tv production on Vimeo.

mommy guilt

2010-05-03T12:08:00.004-04:00

For some reason or another every mother deals with Mother's Guilt at some point in time.

No matter how much we do, we make ourselves feel guilty.

We question if we do enough.

If we are doing it right.

If our kids know exactly how deep our affections are for them.

We wonder if we are building the confidence they will need to face this scary world.

We wonder if we are being the example's God has called us to be to our children.

In the Fall the dynamic of our house will change for a few years.

I will be working more.

Truman will be at school most of the time.

The boys will be with my parents and family more.

And of course the boys will be in capable hands.

They will be loved, cared for, disciplined when needed, encouraged, fed, entertained, etc.

BUT I will not be there.

I will not be there to kiss every boo-boo.

I will not be there every afternoon when school is over.

I won't see every new superhero moves debut.

The boys will be FINE.

But I am struggling.

I do not want to miss anything of their lives.

Even when they are older, married, and fathers themselves.

I want to be there for every birthday.

Every holiday.

Every event.

Truman used to think I was crazy because I make every event a big deal.

I want the boys to have memories of helping me decorate the house for every little thing.

I have no problem with our house being covered in Party City/DollarStore frills,

because the look on their faces when they see it is priceless to me.

I never want them to question if I loved them.

If I loved being with them.

If I am proud of them.

I will have to find new ways to do that when the dynamic changes.

But for now I am off to find more decorations.

There is a brilliant, adorable, creative, funny, almost FIVE year old boy in our house

that GRADUATES from preschool in a few weeks.

Luke 3.0

2010-05-02T17:02:00.002-04:00

reminiscing

2010-05-01T08:15:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow Luke will be 3

It seems like a lifetime ago that he was that little.

My precious baby is growing up.

you know you're are a mom

2010-04-28T10:48:00.004-04:00

Arizona Momma hosts a fun link up post for moms on Wednesdays.

You know you are mom when you

beg, plead, bribe, etc.

your almost 3 year old

to USE THE TOILET!!

You speak of bodily functions like they are the coolest thing on the planet.

Clap, sing, and dance on the rare occasion he makes it to the potty in time.

Seriously, this previously mentioned strong-willed child will be going to college in diapers.

silly bandz

2010-04-27T08:40:00.003-04:00

I had no clue that the "all the other kids have them" would start at 4 years old.

While at the mall on Sunday I saw extreme chaos around one kiosk.

I guess I asked what all the fuss was about because Scott answered me in a very annoyed voice.

How on earth could I NOT know about SILLY BANDZ?!?

And furthermore why did HE NOT HAVE ANY??

We approached the madness that was the Silly Bandz Kiosk.

Scott instantly found the ROCK BAND packet and NEEDED them.Normally I do not give into his every want but he has been helping me a lot these days.

The "all the other kids have them" thing will not always work on this mom.

But for a few dollars, I will give in every now and again.

funny faces

2010-04-21T13:12:00.003-04:00

Luke is such a character. He is funny.

Really, really funny.
Even if he were not mine, he would crack me up.

It is hard to take life too seriously with this jokester around.

He brings such a balance to our family.

I just love him and all his silly faces.

sharing is caring

2010-04-20T09:44:00.005-04:00

It appears that all of our conversation to the boys about sharing has not fallen on deaf ears.

Luke got sick on Sunday.

Fevers, throwing up, and being achy all over.Scott woke up last night with a fever and is now achy.

Wasn't that sweet of Luke to share?

We did not even have to ask him.

They are getting along nicely.

Sitting still watching some TV.

Drinking lots of Sprite and relaxing.

This mommy is not accustom to the quiet that is filling my house.

Hopefully it will not last long.

(and with all the quietness mommy has nothing else to do but edit pictures like crazy)

Psalm 103

2010-04-16T09:58:00.004-04:00

O my soul, bless God.

From head to toe, I'll bless his holy name!

O my soul, bless God, don't forget a single blessing!

He forgives your sins—every one.

He heals your diseases—every one.

He redeems you from hell—saves your life!

He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.

He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.

He renews your youth—you're always young in his presence.

God makes everything come out right;

he puts victims back on their feet.

He showed Moses how he went about his work,

opened up his plans to all Israel.

God is sheer mercy and grace;

not easily angered, he's rich in love.

He doesn't endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever.

He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.

As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is his love to those who fear him.

And as far as sunrise is from sunset, he has separated us from our sins.

As parents feel for their children, God feels for those who fear him.

He knows us inside and out, keeps in mind that we're made of mud.

Men and women don't live very long; like flowers they spring up and blossom,

But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly, leaving nothing to show they were here.

God's love, though, is ever and always, eternally present to all who fear him,

Making everything right for them

and their children as they follow his Covenant ways

and remember to do whatever he said.

God has set his throne in heaven;

he rules over us all.

He's the King!

So bless God, you angels,

ready and able to fly at his bidding,

quick to hear and do what he says.

Bless God, all you armies of angels,

alert to respond to whatever he wills.

Bless God, all creatures, wherever you are—

everything and everyone made by God.
And you, O my soul, bless God!

I cannot wait....

2010-04-13T16:12:00.003-04:00

We cannot wait to meet you!

You will make me the aunt I have longed to be!

Praising Jesus for your little life

and what it will mean for our family.

COME ON AUGUST 21st!!

We're DANCING!!!

2010-04-13T09:46:00.000-04:00

"Shackles" from Molly Breitenfeld on Vimeo.

Honest Blog Award

2010-04-12T22:59:00.006-04:00

Rebekah gave me a Honest Blog Award.

Check her out, such a sweet Christ-like woman!

I am to share 10 honest things about myself.

I will share some things about me

and I would love for you to leave comments telling me about you.

***********

1.My husband has been my friend since I was three years old.

2. My parents are my heroes.

They are EVERYTHING I hope to be.3. I miss my Nanny almost every day. She meant the world to me.

4. 2008 was the hardest year of my life but what God is doing through that pain is worth it.

5. My kids are my pride, joy, laughter, my everything.6. I once was lost but now I'm found, all because of God's amazing grace.

7. Watching the Miami Hurricane's with my family is one of the best things on earth.

Screaming at the TV with my favorite people while eating delicious food.
8.I may be a little stubborn.

9. I could eat Mexican food every day.

10. At almost 30 I am not sure what I want to "do" when I grow up but I am loving every minute of the life I am living.

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus!!

strong opinions

2010-04-12T11:10:00.004-04:00

Yesterday at church Luke's 9:00 a.m. Waumba Land teacher's stopped me to tell how hysterical they think Luke is.

They stated that he has very strong opinions for a two year old.

I have been laughing at that since.

We often say that Scott is much more like Truman and Luke is more like his momma.

I am afraid we will have our work cut out for us with Lukester Boo.

Stubborn and independent do not even begin to describe him.

He is funny, charming, and sweet as well.

It will be a battle of the will's with us.

Luckily I have been strong-willed my whole life, so hopefully I can beat him.

We will just have to remember that his strong sense of self

will serve him well in life.

I am getting sad as birthdays are approaching for my boys.

Where is this time going?

I want to capture every expression and moment.

Soon I will be the mom to a 5 year old and a 3 year old.

How is the possible?

Spring Break Review

2010-04-09T19:58:00.005-04:00

We had a productive and relaxing Spring Break.

Housing found!

Scott toured his Elementary School.

(Mommy is already emotional about that one!)

Visited with family.

Visited with friends who are like family.

Had a group date with two of our favorite couples.

Hung out with Connor James a lot. Connor and Luke playing pirates on the swing set.

THE THREE AMIGOS!

Made wishes with grandma.

And grandpa.
Scared the little brother with crazy driving on the Gator.
Mastered the Wii!
Took in the sights.
The only major thing left to do is find a church.

We have a few in mind to try out.

We know God will guide us where He wants us.

Vacation was wonderful but it is back to reality.

A few more months and our vacation location will be our HOME!

unplugged

2010-04-08T16:25:00.001-04:00

We have been out of town since last week. I have been pretty detached from the electronic world, it has been heavenly! I will be back home (and to reality) tomorrow. Many updates on our move and pictures to share. Have a wonderful week everyone.

This is my King!

2010-04-04T08:40:00.004-04:00

I am sure this will be a popular video clip today. It stirs my soul every time I watch it. THIS IS MY KING! I wonder do you know Him? If you do not, please allow me to introduce you!

great steps to follow

2010-04-03T09:30:00.003-04:00

Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all GENERATIONS;

you established the earth and it endures.
Your law endures to this day, for all things serve you.

Psalm 119:89-91

Good Friday

2010-04-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Easter baskets are fun.

But to me

this is what Easter is about.

Sharing how much Jesus loves us to our kids.

Watching them begin to understand how BIG our God is.

Hearing them saying "He is risen, He is risen indeed!"

That is what Easter is to me.

2010-04-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

God

our

refuge

and

strength

ever-present

help

trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.

Psalms 46:1-2

April Fool's

2010-04-01T07:39:00.002-04:00

We are glad to be at my parent's house today

so when my brother calls my mom for his Annual April Fool's prank,

we will be able to watch it LIVE!

His wife, Meg, is already pregnant so he cannot tease her with that news.

I am guessing he will have a disease or a major job change.

My poor mother, he gets her every time.

Happy April Fool's Day everyone!

Easter Basket #2

2010-03-31T10:03:00.002-04:00

(sorry for the picture fest lately, I have to keep the grandparents happy!)

life's a beach

2010-03-31T10:00:00.000-04:00

Atlanta weather cannot decide what it wants to do these days. One day it is sunny and gorgeous.
The next it is rainy and COLD.

My boys will no longer wait.

They will make their own beach out of beach towels.

We may be chalky white around these parts for a while.

Jesus Storybook Bible

2010-03-30T09:15:00.004-04:00

We bought this Bible for the boys last year.

Every story we read to them speaks to me.

As adults we often try to complicate God's love for us and His message.

His message is simple.

If you are looking for a way to introduce your child to the basics of the Bible

for the very first time,

I recommend this book.

Easter Basket #1

2010-03-29T18:01:00.003-04:00

Sometimes it is embarrassing how spoiled, I mean loved my children are by their grandparents. Today the first Easter Basket arrived from Ganny and Pop. Baskets full of candy,

Spiderman plates, cups, and bowls, note pads and crayons, and MORE CANDY!

SOMEONE PLEASE CALL CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICS THESE CHILDREN ARE NEGLECTED.

treasure

2010-03-28T13:10:00.002-04:00

My boys are my treasure.

Nothing compares to the joy they bring. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:21

captain commando

2010-03-26T14:04:00.002-04:00

While driving home from Scott's school today we had a very interesting conversation.

Scott: mom I guess I forgot to put on clean underwear today.

me: Scott it's okay, the underwear you put on after your bath last night didn't get dirty while you were asleep.

Scott: no mom, I took off my underwear off before I got dressed for school and just didn't put on my clean underwear.

me: Scott, are you teasing mommy?

Scott: nope

me: Can you promise mommy that you will always make sure to put your underwear on before we leave the house from now on?

Scott: ok I promise HAAA HAAA HAAA HAAAAA

After getting fully clothed on his own for two years,

I did not think I needed to check for undies.

He mentioned how comfortable it was a few times,

we may have a problem!!

perspective

2010-03-24T10:45:00.004-04:00

The last few days have been full of political debate,

opinions, statements, and conversations every where I turn.
I certainly have my thoughts on the health care bill and our current adminstration.
I do believe as Christians we should be informed and concerned about the politics in our Nation.
However, I am also positive that God is still on the throne.
God is still God.
God still has the WHOLE world in His hands.

As Americans, we are ARROGANT.

We believe our bad economy, our "tough" times are God's only concern.

I am not saying God doesn't care, I know He does.

I just believe that God wishes we were more concerned with others.
There are children going to bed tonight hungry

because they get to eat one meal every few days.

Families sleeping in huts made of trash that are not any bigger than most of our bedrooms.

I pray as Christians we can come together and instead of complaining about politics

we commit to praying for all of our political leaders.
Even the one's we do not agree with.
And spend a little time appreciating how good we have it in the U.S.A.
Let's give back instead of complaining.
Let's be the hands and feet of Jesus.

To our nation and to others.

James 2 (The Message)

1-4My dear friends, don't let public opinion influence how you live out our glorious, Christ-originated faith. If a man enters your church wearing an expensive suit, and a street person wearing rags comes in right after him, and you say to the man in the suit, "Sit here, sir; this is the best seat in the house!" and either ignore the street person or say, "Better sit here in the back row," haven't you segregated God's children and proved that you are judges who can't be trusted?
5-7Listen, dear friends. Isn't it clear by now that God operates quite differently? He chose the world's down-and-out as the kingdom's first citizens, with full rights and privileges. This kingdom is promised to anyone who loves God. And here you are abusing these same citizens! Isn't it the high and mighty who exploit you, who use the courts to rob you blind? Aren't they the ones who scorn the new name—"Christian"—used in your baptisms?
8-11You do well when you complete the Royal Rule of the Scriptures: "Love others as you love yourself." But if you play up to these so-called important people, you go against the Rule and stand convicted by it. You can't pick and choose in these things, specializing in keeping one or two things in God's law and ignoring others. The same God who said, "Don't commit adultery," also said, "Don't murder." If you don't commit adultery but go ahead and murder, do you think your non-adultery will cancel out your murder? No, you're a murderer, period.
12-13Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time.
14-17Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, "Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!" and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup—where does that get you? Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?
18I can already hear one of you agreeing by saying, "Sounds good. You take care of the faith department, I'll handle the works department."
Not so fast. You can no more show me your works apart from your faith than I can show you my faith apart from my works. Faith and works, works and faith, fit together hand in glove.
19-20Do I hear you professing to believe in the one and only God, but then observe you complacently sitting back as if you had done something wonderful? That's just great. Demons do that, but what good does it do them? Use your heads! Do you suppose for a minute that you can cut faith and works in two and not end up with a corpse on your hands?
21-24Wasn't our ancestor Abraham "made right with God by works" when he placed his son Isaac on the sacrificial altar? Isn't it obvious that faith and works are yoked partners, that faith expresses itself in works? That the works are "works of faith"? The full meaning of "believe" in the Scripture sentence, "Abraham believed God and was set right with God," includes his action. It's that mesh of believing and acting that got Abraham named "God's friend." Is it not evident that a person is made right with God not by a barren faith but by faith fruitful in works?
25-26The same with Rahab, the Jericho harlot. Wasn't her action in hiding God's spies and helping them escape—that seamless unity of believing and doing—what counted with God? The very moment you separate body and spirit, you end up with a corpse. Separate faith and works and you get the same thing: a corpse.

innocent prayers

2010-03-22T10:49:00.005-04:00

Before every meal the boys each have to take a turn to pray.
Embarrassingly, they remind us to pray prior to eating.

Luke's goes like this:

"Thank you God for mommy, daddy, Scott, grandma, grandpa, ganny, pop, and Thomas and Friends. AAAAAAAAAAA-MEN!"
Not bad for 2 years old.

Scott's goes like this:

"Jesus, thank you for dying on the cross, thank you for our food, thank you for mommy, daddy, grandma, grandpa, ganny, and can't forget pop! Amen"

Melts my heart every time.

The innocent faith of a child is such a reminder to me of how Jesus wants us to be.

my heart

2010-03-21T12:21:00.001-04:00

a little adventure

2010-03-17T18:01:00.003-04:00

While Scott was at school today Luke and I went on an adventure.

Luke did the driving.
We went to get pizza and candy.

Posed for a picture.

And got a little distracted by PBS Kids.

(How cute is he with his spikey hair? He now asks for gel every morning.)

I may be a Jonah too- Part two

2010-03-17T10:08:00.002-04:00

After God graciously saved Jonah's life, Jonah decided maybe he would go ahead and go to Ninevah. Ninevah welcomed him and the news of God with open arms. The entire city repented. Once God saw their repentence He did not destroy the city like he had threatened. Jonah was FURIOUS. He was angry at God for saving "those people!" God asked Jonah if he had a right to be angry. Jonah believed he did have that right.
How often do I feel like I have a right to be upset at God for showing compassion on others? Unfortunately, more than I would like to admit! I love when God shows His grace and mercy to me and those that I love. I thank God for that but the person who cuts me off in traffic, you love those people too God? The person at work who is miserable to everyone else? They aren't worthy like I am God, oh wait, I am not worthy either! My prayer is that God would give me a heart like His for all of His children. Even the one's that I do not always deem worthy and remind me that I am not worthy either. No longer do I want to sit in judgement but a sense of compassion.

I may be a Jonah too- Part One

2010-03-15T14:07:00.004-04:00

Andy Stanley just first a powerful series on Jonah yesterday at church*. Never in my life do I recall hearing a sermon about Jonah. Bible stories in Sunday School when I was younger, yes. A sermon? Nope. Of course Andy's sermons are fabulous in my humble opinion,but this series hit pretty close to home on many different levels.

The first two weeks Andy talked about how Jonah was a good man and a Prophet. But when God called him to do something that was uncomfortable for him he literally ran away as far as he physically could in that time. Jonah ran from God but couldn't OUT run God. As Jonah found himself about to be thrown out of a boat in the middle of storm, I am sure Jonah realized maybe God knew what He was doing after all. Jonah got to hang out in the belly of large fish for a few days. Sound's like a good time, huh? The smell of fish from the outside make me gag, can you imagine what they smell like from the inside?

On to my point, how often do we run from God and end up hanging out in the middle of a stinky mess? There have been many conversations like this between God and myself

God: Megan I would like you do to such and such

Me: Wow God, that sounds like an amazing idea, I appreciate your creativity but I am going to have to pass...

God: Megan, don't you realize I see the big picture and know what's best?

Me: of course God, you created well everything but I think I have it figured out.....

after a while

Me: God, are you there? Can you help me out of this mess I created?

God: yes, I never ran from you, you ran from me.

Andy said this statement and God has reminded me of it often in the last few weeks

"God is gracious with His love but thorough with His discipline.

disciplines us,

not to pay us back but to bring us back to Him!"

Even when we quit running we have to deal with the consequences of running from God. Running from God could mean many things. It is simply not obeying God in every area of your life. Ignoring whatever it is He is calling you to do. I do not want to run from God anymore, in any way. I have spent enough time in the middle stinky messes.

*We are going to miss NPCC terribly when we move in June!!

claiming the promise of this song

2010-03-14T15:09:00.002-04:00

the best day

2010-03-13T14:13:00.005-05:00

Today was the best day in a long time.

It has rained all week long.

We were all ready to get out of the house.

then

and lunch together at a surprisingly yummy pizza place.

SHOW US YOUR LIFE

2010-03-12T07:59:00.003-05:00

Kelly's Korner is hosting Show us your life- favorite charity.

Our favorite charity is:

Samaritan's Purse- International Relief

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/

They are most known for Operation Christmas Child but they do so much more.

The website offers pictures and videos that make it easy for kids (and adults) to understand

the need to give.

They make the process easy, even though I do not believe giving will always be easy.

Nor should it be.

Where much is given, much is required.

God has blessed us,

we do not have an abundance of "extra money" but all of our needs are met.

Even when times are tough for the U.S.A. in this economy and season of life,

we still have it pretty good.

To quote Andy Stanley "if your car has its own house, you are rich!"

thoughts for Thursday

2010-03-11T12:57:00.002-05:00

*It seems like everyone is having babies and I will always want another one.

*My kids are the best. They are funny, sweet souls.

*God has answered every prayer regarding Truman's decision to go to Law School.

*I have been humbled by the GRACE that God gives us everyday, in ways we do not always acknowledge.

*I wish the rain would stop.

*Is it too early to start packing for June?

*My grandpa is making me a table from an antique door and I cannot wait.

*A trip to the Magic Kingdom is on my mind but not in the budget.

*Is it wrong to go to Chili's just for chips and salsa?

Happy Birthday Truman

2010-03-09T13:33:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Truman Paul

I am so grateful that you are my husband.

You are my best friend.

You are the greatest dad.

You make me laugh and make me crazy!!

This year starts a new adventure for you

and

I am SO excited to see what God has in store for you.

mixed emotions from a tired mommy

2010-03-04T08:24:00.002-05:00

Scott was just about to turn two when Luke was born. He was the best napper and sleeper. No issues to speak of until he was almost three. Then every night he would sneak his way into our bed. Being that we were exhausted we just let him sleep there. Too tired to make it a fight. Every night with little knees and elbows in our backs but I loved every minute of it. Knowing that in a few years I will beg him to come lay with me but he will be too cool or too big for something like that.
Well, now Luke is almost three. We are back to our 4 A.M. wake up calls. Unfortunately Luke isn't too keen on the going back to sleep part. He lays with his knees and elbows in my ribs or back and tells me stories. I sit for hours listening to him say "once upon a time" and "you know what happened next, I tell ya...!" I may have bags under my eyes and yawn all day long but I love every minute of it. Because I know in a few years he won't need his mommy in the middle of the night.

Isn't it funny...

2010-03-03T14:10:00.002-05:00

Lately there have been various things that have been heavy on my heart. Decisions that need to be made, trying to help friends who are facing hard times, and just a general thirst for God's direction and peace. Often times I get so "busy" doing important things like playing on face book and reading Perez Hilton. I have time for that JUNK but cannot seem to make time to read my Bible or just be still long enough for God to get a hold of me. How funny it is that I allow Satan to distract me with garbage when I really need to be fed the most!
I am praying that my blinders will be taken off and I MAKE the time to be in God's word. I need to be still long enough for Him to continue to guide where HE would have me go. Today God led me to Romans 8, one of my favorites! Isn't it funny how we can read the same passage a hundred times and get something new out of it each time? God is good like that. Anyways, I decided to pull out My utmost for His highest to see if Mr. Oswald Chambers had anything to add. Of course he did, because God is good like that. I am going to just type the entire entry which could possibly be illegal but I have to share it. Here it goes.

We are in danger of getting into a bargaining spirit with God when we come to Him-

we want the witness of the Spirit before we have done what God tells us to do.

Why doesn't God reveal Himself to you?

He cannot.

It is not that He will not, but He cannot, because YOU are in the way

as long as you won't abandon yourself to Him in total surrender.

Yet once you do, IMMEDIATELY God witnesses to Himself-

He cannot witness to you but instantly witnesses to His own nature in you.

If you received the witness of the Spirit before the reality and truth that comes from obedience, it would simply result in a sentimental emotion.

But when you act on the basis of redemption, and stop the disrespectfulness of debating with God, He immediately gives His witness.

As soon as you abandon your own reasoning and arguing, God witnesses to what He has done,

and you are amazed at your total disrespect in having kept Him waiting.

If you are debating as to whether or not God can deliver from sin, then either LET HIM do it

or tell Him that He cannot.

Do not quote this or that person to Him.

Simply obey "Come to ME all you who labor and are heavy laden...."

The Spirit of God witnesses to the redemption of our Lord and to NOTHING ELSE.

He cannot witness to our reason.

We are inclined to mistake the simplicity that comes from our natural commonsense decisions

for the witness of the Spirit,

but the Spirit witnesses only to His own nature,

and to the work of redemption,

never to our reason.

If we are trying to make Him witness to our reason, it is no wonder that we are in darkness and uncertainty.

Throw it overboard, trust in Him, and He will give you the witness of the Spirit.

WOW. Thank you Jesus for not being subtle with me, you know me well.

my lesson in patience

2010-03-02T13:20:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 19:11 says

A man's wisdom gives him patience;

it is his glory to overlook an offense!

So I patiently await the end of the terrible two's!

And in all honesty, with a cute little face like that it would be hard to stay upset for long.

errands and such with the boys in the hood

2010-02-25T15:46:00.004-05:00

ON OUR WAY TO

The boys in the hood love cinnamon rolls.Then it was off to storytime at Barnes and Noble.

(which didn't last long because Scott said it was LAME)

Off to grab some cleaning supplies at Target and dreaming in Pier One.

After our busy morning we decided we needed to finish "our date" off with some lunch.

A good time was had by all.

(At least until we got home and Luke made himself throw up in attempt to avoid a nap!)

It is OFFICIAL!

2010-02-23T15:55:00.004-05:00

I asked God to be painfully clear with us regarding Truman going to Law School.

(I even asked God to only allow Truman to get into the school that he was MEANT to attend.

Well, because sometimes I am THAT slow.)

I want the absolute best for him and our family.

I also know that my plans are nothing close to how incredible the plan God can come up with.

Anyways....

IT IS OFFICIAL!!!!

I feel....

2010-02-16T15:10:00.001-05:00

These moments are ones I will never forget.

our circus goes to the circus

2010-02-16T11:58:00.002-05:00

Taking children to the circus is chaotic but worth it.

Watching their eyes as they are processing what they are seeing.

PRICELESS.

And you can't go to the circus without bringing home crazy circus toys.

snow days in Georgia

2010-02-16T11:44:00.002-05:00

I love the few snow days we have in Georgia. Just enough snow to play in but not enough to keep us trapped inside for days.
Who doesn't like a good snowball fight?
Good aim Scott.

Luke likes it too.

Valentine's Party

2010-02-10T14:32:00.004-05:00

a day in the life of a superhero

2010-02-06T18:31:00.002-05:00

HAVE NO FEAR SCOTTY
I MEAN

SPIDERMAN

HERE

wordless Wednesday

2010-02-03T10:02:00.000-05:00

2010-01-26T11:52:00.001-05:00

princess party

2010-01-19T10:24:00.003-05:00

My sweet, sweet son decided mommy needed to have a Princess Party to celebrate becoming 28.

He called grandma and they planned the whole thing.

Watching his face throughout the party was priceless.

Moments I will never forget.

He picked out a gorgeous crown for me to wear and a few sparkley necklaces.
Samantha Bean came to the party.

I was a little afraid of the amount of candles on the cake!!

cousins sharing

Scott had some helped from his buddy Connor with the Wii boxing.

life in friendships

2010-01-10T14:29:00.004-05:00

Having moved around a ton in almost 28 years I have had the chance to meet some amazing women.

Every one has meant something different to me.

Each one has taught me different things

I have known Rachel since the 1st grade.

Our friendship is so easy.

We could not speak for years then go out to lunch and will have never missed a beat.

She is loyal, hard working, and sensitive. I met Sabrina when we moved to St. Augustine.

She was not instantly convinced she liked me but we became close friends quickly.

We have been through a lot together and always seem to find our way back to each other.

She is strong, determined, and easy to talk to.

I also met Erin when we moved to St. Augustine.

She was easy to get to know.

I never felt like "the new girl" around her.

She is patient, loyal, and smart.

Jackie came into my life when Truman and I made the BIG move to Charlotte.
My cousin Nathan introduced us.
She was the feeling of home in a new place.
Her and Josh have been such a blessing to us.
Jackie is comforting, beyond funny, and so sweet.
Amy and Stacey have been such a blessing to me since moving to Georgia.
They have adorable kids.
They are wonderful mothers.
And they are just fun to be around.
I am free to be myself and I know they will love me anyways.

I am so lucky.
Every season of life has left me with at least one amazing friendship that continues on.

"Each friend represents a world in us, a
world possibly not born until they arrive,
and it is only by this meeting that the new world is born."

sad to see them go

2010-01-09T19:17:00.004-05:00

Our dear friends, The Fords, are moving back to Chicago in a few weeks.

We are trying to get in as much time as possible with them.

Scott and Zach making sad faces.

They don't want to say goodbye.

Of course with these two sad times do not last for long.

Rheya and Luke have always been there to help each other out.

Seriously, how cute is this kid?

GapKids, need a model???

This little girl has grown up before our eyes.

Little Fashionista. Not really sure how to translate this one.

We will miss you Mark, Amy, Zach, and Rheya.

We appreciate your friendship.

We are grateful you invited us to North Point with you guys last year.

Thank you for always being fun.

Thank you for loving our kids.

We look forward to hearing about the wonderful things God

is going to do for you guys in Chicago.

playing in the slush

2010-01-07T16:04:00.005-05:00

We did get snow.

It did not live up to the hype but we played in it anyways.

We woke Luke up from his nap and he was not convinced it was worth it.

I just love the honesty in his expressions.

Scott was scheming.

The pool is frozen and he was DYING to walk on it.

His reasons as to why it would be safe were hysterical. I hope they always want to go through life together, side by side.
"Is this it?"
Trying to catch a snowflake like Nathan taught him.

Both of them rolling their eyes, PRICELESS!!!

Come visit us in artic Georgia, we will go for a swim.

Oh just lay out by the pool.

wishing and hoping and praying and wishing

2010-01-07T08:41:00.002-05:00

Could it be? Will be REALLY get snow??

things I want to do before I die

2010-01-06T10:22:00.002-05:00

in no particular order

*see Truman graudate for Law School, watch his dreams come true, as long he doesn't want to become a politician.
*watch Scott and Luke grow up to be whatever God has planned for them.
*buy an old cottage and restore it. Full of antiques and modern pieces, with a kitchen that would make Paula Deen jealous.
*be a grandma to many cute children
*finish college
*go to Boston in the fall
*build a dream cabin in Suches with enough bedrooms, fireplaces,space, etc. so we all can go year round
*see healing in all relationships that are broken
*watch Scott and Luke lead worship in a large church
*have a small little farm and garden
*spend a Christmas at the Magic Kingdom
*take cooking classes
*take the boys and their families to Hawaii
*get in shape and stay that way for the rest of our lives
*own a red Jeep Wrangler
*buy a fancy, schmancy camera and learn how to use it
*become the best wife and best friend to Truman
*be the most amazing mother I can be to Scott and Luke, hopefully no therapy will be needed
*live our lives in God's will for us. His ideas are far greater than what I can come up with.

......more to come

2010

2010-01-01T18:29:00.003-05:00

I have decided not to have a resolution for the start of this year.

No weightloss plan. No crazy idea of giving up Coca-cola!

All I am going to work on is to be a better me this year.

A better wife, mother, daughter, and friend.

I need to spend more time digging into the Bible this year.

I often find time for Facebook or celebrity gossip but I am "too busy" for God.

How silly??

There will be a lot of changes for us as a family this year.

In the next two months decisions will be made for where we will move in June.

Truman, Scott, and Luke will be getting ready for school.

Lots to do and always an adventure.

Here we come 2010.

christmas wrap up

2009-12-28T15:43:00.005-05:00

We had a lovely Christmas.

Christmas Eve was spent at Uncle Keith and Aunt Connie's house.

We continued the Stone traditions that mean a lot to all of us.

We all missed Nanny together.

Luke helped lighten our spirits by singing.
Nathan and Scott played Wii Boxing, Nathan lost.

Christmas morning was present overload.
We are ALL very blessed, blessed sounds better than spoiled.

Hot chocolate in "fancy cups" with grandma.

Lots of snuggle time with grandma and grandpa.

The boys opened presents from us after our exciting trip to the Emergency Room at 4:00 a.m.

Books and a game.

We keep it simple because the rest of the family get them both a TON of stuff.

sleepy guys

Rob and his indescribable hula hooping skills

Christmas Letter 2009

2009-12-25T12:34:00.002-05:00

The Smith Family- Christmas 2009
2009 brought the start of wonderful changes for the Smith family. In the year prior we experienced sorrow, pain, heartache, and disappointment. Unfortunately that did not always bring out the best in Truman and myself. With the hurt we were feeling we were unable, or if we were honest with ourselves, unwilling to see the good that God was doing and wanted to do if we would let Him.
Luckily the new year and much prayer made for a wonderful 2009. Once we both decided to cling to each other and to God things started looking up for us again. We began to laugh together again, quite the change from months before. The tension and stress that was suffocating has left our house, PRAISE GOD!!!
In 2009 Truman continued to work at E*Trade Financial as a Fraud Specialist. This summer he informed me God was leading him to go to Law School. A few months of studying for the LSAT and the journey begins. Applications have been sent, recommendation letters written. Now we wait and pray to see where God guides and leads. I have great faith in Truman’s ability to achieve whatever it is that God leads him to. He is one smart cookie, if I do say so myself. Truman has begun spending lots of time at the gym. The reality that men lose weight much quicker than women continues to irritate me but I am proud of his efforts none the less. Every Sunday morning Truman gets to hang out with his buddy Davis so his parents can enjoy hearing “that Andy guy” preach. What can I say, I am a proud wife. I am married to a smart, funny, sometimes sarcastic cutie, who loves Jesus, is an incredible father, and he cooks too!!
I continue to work in the evenings at Lowe’s, I am grateful for an easy job that pays so well. I am also grateful it will never be my career. I enjoy spending my days with Scott and Luke. I cannot believe how incredibly lucky I am. My biggest goal is to soak up as much of this time as humanly possible. These times are flying by faster than I care for. Every day is a new adventure at our house. Life with two boys, two years apart certainly has it moments but I wouldn’t give it up for anything else. I am humbled that God has given them to US to raise. I spend my Sunday mornings in Waumba Land with a group of two year olds that are not quite as amazing as my own children but I still love every minute of it.
　Scott has blown us away this year. This Fall he began doing the carpool at school, never even looked back at his mommy. I was proud and heartbroken at the same time. We have always believed him to be brilliant and his teacher agrees. He is the leader of his class and protects the girls from the “bad guys.” We have had to face the issue of not being a bully and not being a doormat. Scott tends to stick up for everyone but himself. We have also realized that he is like his parents with how he deals with his emotions. He tends to deal with stuff on his own. It has been good for all of us to work on that together. He is the king of the superheroes, he reports to his imaginary boss often. Truman and I get threatened that we will be fired from “the team” if we do not follow his rules on a daily basis. Maddie is still his best friend. He plans to marry her when they get old enough. I often call him my mini-Truman, two of a kind. His sweet spirit, love for music, and love for God makes us proud.
Luke, oh Luke. He has embraced being two years old in every way. He keeps us on our toes. He adores his brother. Loves Thomas the Train. He can tell you who any superhero is. Can sing any song he has heard once. If you hear him singing “gotta get that boom boom boom” or “get low” I promise that is not music he hears on a regular basis. He makes us laugh when he knows he is in trouble. Melts your heart with his sweet little voice. Refers to himself as Lukester Boo Smith. He is quite the charmer. He is strong willed and independent, I personally have no idea where he could have gotten that from? Luke makes friends easily and isn’t afraid to speak his mind. We adore the moments we have with just Luke to listen to him tell us things and to see his little mind unfold. He has such an imagination. He is our happy child 95% of the time, the other 5% we won’t talk about. He enjoys “band time” with his brother every afternoon. The boys love for music has amazed us. It is such a natural thing for them. We are looking forward to seeing those talents develop and to see what God does with those talents. We know they are from God because they absolutely did not get them from us.
They both love going to church and so do we. I have said before that if the only reason God brought us to Alpharetta was to get us plugged into such a dynamic church for two years, I am grateful. God has shown us and blessed us in many ways since we have moved here.
We are excited to see what next year brings as decisions for Law School are made. We know God will show us and provide as the journey begins. We are grateful to have experienced the hard times that are making the good times that much sweeter. God is healing relationships and continues to grow us.
I am especially grateful this year for my parents who are wise, generous, loving, and patient. I am grateful that they still teach us what a good marriage looks like. My mom’s parents have also meant a lot to us this year. The unchanging, steady pillars of faith. The prayers that are said daily on our behalf mean the world to us.
We had a great visit with Nana and Papaw this Fall. I love that Papaw cries whenever he prays and Nana’s gentle, sweet spirit is always comforting. It is good to see the boys interact with two of the many people who love them.
Ganny and Pop were able to join us for Halloween this year. Our children certainly do not lack for love or attention. It is wonderful to watch the boys love their grandparents so much. We all have a great time together and hope we can do more of that this year.
We are so lucky and blessed beyond what words could ever describe. I think gratefulness has been our theme this year. Things aren’t always easy but we are changed.
To quote Luke’s favorite song “my soul, my soul magnifies the Lord. He has done great things for me, great things for me!”

chickens and a cow

2009-12-18T16:00:00.004-05:00

As parent's we want to ensure that our children are aware of the world outside of themselves.

Samaritan's Purse is an incredible organization that makes giving very easy.

The website offers videos, pictures, and descriptions of how each category will benefit those in need.

It was helpful for Scott to be able to see the need and then the impact it would have, if he helped.

With a portion of the boys Christmas money they each donated a dozen chickens to a family.

It did not take long for Scott to ask us what we were going to give with our Christmas money.

I like that he make sure we are practicing what we are preaching.

I let him look at the website and he decided that we should donate a dairy cow.

He also said that if people did not have anything at Christmas

that means they do not have anything the rest of the year either.

I have a feeling we will have a growing relationship with Samaritan's Purse through out the year.

https://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Giving/gift_catalog/?pc=13754

"great party"

2009-12-16T11:40:00.003-05:00

I guess I should have worn a white shirt too.
Santa had chocolate, he must be a good guy.

Christmas cookies. Our complex hosted "Cookies with Santa" last night.

After many failed attempts to get pictures with Santa at the mall,

I was pretty sure we wouldn't get any good pictures.

Luckily I was wrong.

The boys do look cautious but it is the first time in a while all four of us are in a picture together. When we left Luke kept saying "that was a great party!"

my little drummer boys

2009-12-13T17:58:00.004-05:00

my soul, my soul

2009-12-11T13:52:00.004-05:00

We have been listening to the new Chris Tomlin Christmas CD in the car these days. Our boys hear a song once and have it memorized.

An ability they share with their Grandma and Uncle Rob.

(Which is why we only listen to Christian music with them. We want them to be singing about good things.)

Luke has been singing

"my soul, my soul, magnifies the Lord!! He has done great things for me, great things for me!"

It makes me smile everytime.

At two years old I am aware that he doesn't completely grasp what he is singing

but I am certain that it won't be long.

One of the greatest things God has done for me, was to give me two cuties.

"my soul, my soul, magnifies the Lord!! He has done great things for me, great things for me!"

two reasons to love Christmas time

2009-12-09T14:37:00.001-05:00

Peppermint Bark Cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory

Peppermint Mocha Frapps from Starbucks

the best christmas show EVER

2009-12-07T15:27:00.004-05:00

*Make sure you turn off the songs at the bottom of the page before you press play.

Clearly Scott's class will never be into peer pressure.

The smallest and loudest class there, at least they had the right songs!

The verses order are not that important.

date night

2009-12-02T19:08:00.004-05:00

Since Scott has started school Luke has had many "mommy dates."

Scott has not had a turn in a while.

Tonight we decided to fix that.

He told me to get "fancy" and he picked out a handsome outfit.

(he even wore cologne!)

Once Daddy was home from work we headed out the door.

He held my hand all the way to the car because that is what you do on a date.

He picked Cracker Barrel.

After we ate some delicious chicken, macaroni and cheese, and some carrots....

we shared a frosty mug hot fudge sundae!!
DIVINE.

And now we are home, worn out.

Oh how I cherish these moments.

I am blessed beyond words.

This little boy was sad he didn't get to come.

He had his next date planned out very quickly.

A train ride and Chick-fila are in his future.

what does Christmas mean to you?

2009-11-30T11:14:00.002-05:00

Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. Especially since Scott and Luke have come into my life. This year I am determined to not let Christmas be about stuff. I want them to see Christmas as a celebration of the greatest gift of all, the birth of Jesus. I want them to remember the times together as a family, the decorations, the things we did together, and the things we did for other people.
I remember every Christmas Eve being at Nanny's house with my dad's side of the family and we all said the Christmas story together. I remember my grandma's house with a glass Christmas tree she always had chocolate Christmas bell candy in. I remember eating breakfast Christmas morning with my cousins. I remember eating Aunt Katherine's Christmas cookies. I remember my mom having all our friends coming over in high school to decorate the tree, knowing she would re-decorate it when we left. (Of course, now that I have my own tree I completely understand the re-decorating.) I remember unwrapping presents with my brother and wrapping them back up before mom got home, that was pretty bad, but I couldn't tell you what the presents were. I remember my mom baking for the entire month. I remember Christmas songs at church and the candle light services. I remember Nanny's Christmas letter that summed up the year for our family. I am grateful for being taught at an early age what Christmas meant. That is why Christmas is my favorite time of year.