in the life of a johnson

9 months

2012-01-20T16:37:00.000-06:00

Happy 9 months, little man!!

TODAY, he has decided to crawl on all 4's. Earlier today he was sitting independently while playing with a toy, then he crawled to another toy and sat back up by himself. Such a big, little guy :)

I took pictures of Xach in this hat at 8 months old. Jack's head has finally grown enough to sort of fit into it at 9 months! If you compare the two sets of photos, it's obvious we have a little guy on our hands. He has moved from the 7th to the 10th percentile in weight over the past 3 months, so he's making a little headway there. We are mixing regular formula in with his Neocate, and he is tolerating that ok. He still only takes 3 ounces per feeding, and he's not really eating much baby food. The GI doctor said not to worry about calories as long as he's gaining weight. Easier said than done.

He's happy, tho!

We love you so so much, little man!

PlaYtImE!!

2012-01-20T16:15:00.000-06:00

Now that the holidays are over, I am back to spending my days off work during the week at home with the boys. The older Jack gets, the more we get to PLAY!

The weather has been nice the past few days. It feels like Spring!!

I <3 these boys!

a little off the top...

2012-01-20T15:53:00.000-06:00

Oh my! Baby boy needed a haircut.

We visited Mrs. Vanessa for a little trim.

Much better!!

An interview and a resolve.

2012-01-01T20:04:00.000-06:00

Each year I will interview my boys on New Years Day. Obviously, Jack couldn't participate this year!

{He is producing variagated babbling for you speechies out there ;)}

Xach (age 3) 2012 interview:

(his responses are in italics)

ABOUT ME

My name is: Xachariah.

My eyes are: blue.

My hair is: brown.

My favorite color is: red.

My favorite thing to do is: be a cowboy.

I don’t like to: sit in time out.

It makes me happy when: I go to a place that has games.

My favorite food is: Chicken nuggets with French fries.

My favorite thing to drink is: juice.

I don’t like to eat: spaghettios.

ABOUT MY MAMA

My Mama’s name is: Jaci.

My Mama’s eyes are: blue. Everyone’s eyes are blue.

Her hair is: brown like mine.

Her favorite color is: red like me.

Her favorite thing to do is: take me somewhere that has games.

It makes Mama happy when: she paints with me.

Mama doesn’t like to: what are you talkin’ ‘bout?!

My Mama’s job is: making patient’s talk better at work.

She takes care of me by: feeding me.

The best thing about my Mama: she plays with me.

DADA

My Dada’s name is: Reid.

My Dada’s eyes are: aren’t they blue?!

His hair is: black.

His favorite color is: black.

His favorite thing to do is: go to Chuck E Cheese’s.

It makes Dada happy when: we laugh with him.

Dada doesn’t like to: I don’t know what you are talkin’ ‘bout!

My Dada’s job is: he goes to church and tells people about Jesus.

He takes care of me by: getting me some milk for night night time.

The best thing about my Dada: he plays with me like cowboys and Super Dada!

___________________________________________

RESOLVE: /rɪˈzɒlv/ -solved, -solv·ing, noun. verb ( used with object). 1. to come to a definite or earnest decision about; determine

I am determined to accomplish 3 things this year:

1. Read through the Bible at least once

(see http://www.youversion.com for reading plans and a great Bible app, including audio, for your phone!)

2. Health and Wellness

(Jack is 8 months old and so is the baby weight he left behind. I'm going to knock out the last of it!)

3. Organize/Simplify my home

(I have tasks to accomplish each day. I'm using the calendars provided here for organization, and I'm doing this Bible study over and over each month for cleaning.)

My first task today was to create and display my mission statement.

In case you can't read it, it says:

Homemaking is an opportunity to...care for those I love, become orderly and organized, make our home a haven, increase my ability to help others, invite the spirit, truly enjoy my time at home, provide a comforting and calm space, create a refuge from the storms, and feel peace by being prepared.

Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year! Here's to fresh beginnings!

PS - I'm not superstitious, but it is tradition to eat black-eyed peas on New Years. Have you had yours? I made mine using this recipe. YUM!

Photo courtesy of The Pioneer Woman. Click for recipe.

Christmas #5

2012-01-01T18:53:00.000-06:00

Our fifth and final Christmas celebration was with Pap and Nonnie.

Aunt B&B with Autumn and Jack

Opening gifts

Xach got a cowboy hat and boots

proud of his new look

Xach: "The horse got tired so we had to ride the tiger."

Jack (Pa) meets Jack!

Grandbabies. I think it was nap time.

Thank you, Pap and Nonnie!

Christmas #4

2012-01-01T17:34:00.000-06:00

Christmas evening was spent at Mema and Pepa's house. Mamoo and Pawpaw, Uncle John, Aunt Sherri, and Jansen were also there.

Aunt Sherri and Jack

Jack and Jansen

Mema's second annual game.

We don't have a name for it, and she makes up the rules as she goes!

Uncle John trying to figure out what his choices are in the game.

The boys with their Mamoo and PawPaw

good family photo!

Xach and Jansen playing some Mario.

We had a good time. Thanks, White Chapel crew!

Christmas #3

2012-01-01T17:01:00.000-06:00

Christmas celebration #3 was actually on Christmas eve and Christmas day! We spent time with Mimi & Grandad and Dada's sisters and their families. We all spent the night together and woke up at 5:30am Christmas morning! {Yawn}

Uncle Jason and Jack

On Christmas Eve Xach's one gift that he got to open was his gift from Devin. Devin decided to buy Xach an Angry Bird pillow pet with his own money. Xach was thrilled, of course. It's now a prized possession!

Attempts at a good photo of the boys in their matching pajamas.

The boys with their Mimi and Granddad.

Late on Christmas eve it started snowing! Xach was very excited, especially after ShuShu scooped him up to go spin in the snow!

Santa was good to our kids!

Christmas morning

Xach's favorite: big boy helicopter

Jack's favorite: high chair :)

Mimi and Grandad in their "spot".

I think it's funny that we sit in the same spot every year!

"Thank you!"

Jack's new shirt :)

ShuShu & Sissy

We had a wonderful Christmas. Thank you, family!

Christmas #2

2012-01-01T15:54:00.000-06:00

Christmas celebration #2 was with Granny, Pappy, Kaleb, Rene, Audrey, and Aven.

I don't have many pictures because Xach didn't get a nap that day. By that evening he was in rare form. Let's just say the grinch showed up that night :-/

We gave Granny a shirt with this picture on it of "her babies".

8 months

2012-01-01T15:43:00.000-06:00

In the middle of our Christmas rounds, Jack turned 8 months old! (Dec. 20).

Jack is quite the happy little fella. He has two bottom teeth with more coming in somewhere. They may be about to pop up all over, poor guy. As for his hair, it's in a half to full mohawk most of the time, despite our combing efforts. He is sitting up independently, but we have to stay beside him because he flings himself backward when he's tired of sitting up. Ouch! Crawling is still a frustrating enigma for the little guy. He has been trying for months. Scooting around and rolling get him where he needs to go when he finally gives up. Maybe this month he will figure it out. We hope so!

He has a new expression (below). He is trying keep himself from smiling all the time. So funny!

Brother continues to be a source of laughter and awe for Jack.

They are so funny together!

Christmas #1

2011-12-31T22:49:00.000-06:00

Our first of five Christmas celebrations this season was at Mamoo and PawPaw's in Louisiana.

We arrived a few days early and helped prepare for the rest of the crew!

Xach was very excited to play with his cousins.

Playing football with PawPaw and the big boys

Passing out gifts to a bunch of boys, and one sweet little girl :)

Jack snuggling Aunt P

Our family minus a few...I took the pic :), Andrew was working, Aunt P and Jack were snuggling to the left, Jaxon was sick, and Jason is serving in Afghanistan.

Sweet Addy with her Daddy

sweet Jack with his Dada

and with Mamoo

We had a great time! Thanks, Mamoo and PawPaw!

Tis the Season!

2011-12-11T22:47:00.001-06:00

Last weekend we bundled the boys up for the annual lighted Christmas parade. Jack hadn't slept more than 2 hours straight all weekend because he was teething. As soon as we pulled out of our driveway, he was out. Go figure!

We watched the parade, then ran to go talk to Santa.

Jack woke up for this part!

Santa walked by us in line to go take his seat, and he patted Dada on the back and said his name. Xach was quite impressed that Santa personally knew Dada.

Xach is shy around strangers

(which I suppose is good!), so we weren't sure if he would sit in Santa's lap. At home, Xach informed me that he would only be standing beside Santa to talk to him...as you can see below, Xach warmed up to the idea! He got straight to business, though. "I want a firetruck that turns into a fireman, and that pig game that when you feed the pig hamburgers his tummy gets bigger."

This past week it SNOWED! Xach has seen snow and played in snow before, but he doesn't remember it. I woke him up around 1:30 in the morning to show him because I wasn't sure how long it would last. He fell asleep sitting up by the door talking about it.

The snow did last...for two days! It was beautiful.

Courageous

2011-12-02T12:29:00.000-06:00

Have you seen the movie Courageous?! It is WONDERFUL. I encourage you to see it with your spouse if you haven't. It made me so thankful to parent with such a courageous man. Below is part of the resolution that was featured in the movie. These words truly describe our Dada!

I WILL love them, protect them, serve them, and teach them the Word of God as the spiritual leader of my home. I WILL be faithful to my wife, to love and honor her, and be willing to lay down my life for her as Jesus Christ did for me. I WILL bless my children and teach them to love God with all of their hearts, all of their minds, and all of their strength. I WILL train them to honor authority and live responsibly. I WILL confront evil, pursue justice, and love mercy. I WILL pray for others and treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion. I WILL work diligently to provide for the needs of my family. I WILL forgive those who have wronged me and reconcile with those I have wronged. I WILL learn from my mistakes, repent of my sins, and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God. I WILL seek to honor God, be faithful to His church, obey His Word, and do His will. I WILL courageously work with the strength God provides to fulfill this resolution for the rest of my life and for His glory.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ---Joshua 24:15

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!

2011-12-02T12:16:00.000-06:00

I love our nativity. It has pictures on the characters that help tell the story of the birth of Jesus.

Our new Christmas stockings. Xach picked his pattern (green zig zag) as well as Jack's pattern (grey stripe).

Simon, our Elf on the Shelf.

I plan to post about the activities of our scout elf in the coming weeks!

Xach and I decorated the tree. It's not perfect. There are times that I walk by and want to move something to a better spot, but I don't. It was something we did together.

When Reid's mom remarried, I inherited the Reindeer that says "The Johnsons". It is special to me because I had a reindeer like that in my house growing up.

I <3 Pinterest. I made the wreath above and below after getting ideas from that site!

Another Pinterest craft.

and another!!

Charlie Brown Christmas in the boys' bathroom.

Xach LOVES to watch that movie!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T23:09:00.000-06:00

We spent Thanksgiving in several different places. It was nice to spend time with our families.

Mama and Aunt P

Pepa and Jack

Dada and Jack

Pepa showing us the "aqua patio" he built and put in the tank.

Xach and Mamoo reading a book

Mema and Jack

Mama and her boys

Pepa and the boys

Xach and Granddad "playing tennis" at the condo

Dada playing football

Xach, Granddad, and Betsy Grace

While it was nice to see everyone, we added the word "exhausted" to Xach's vocabulary!

He doesn't always remember how to say it, so he says, "I'm ex---tired. I'm really tired."

7 months

2011-11-27T15:38:00.000-06:00

11/20/11

7 months with our

toe-eating

blue-eyed

almost-sitting

always-smiling

baby-praise-watching

fuzzy-headed

snuggle-loving

belly-showing

JACK!

FALL

2011-11-27T12:45:00.000-06:00

My favorite season is FALL. The colors, the flowers, the smells. I love it all!

We have been taking the boys out to enjoy the crisp air every chance we get.

We like to think we keep the ducks nice and fat ;)

The boys love to play outside especially when Mama and Dada join in the fun. We hope to have many afternoons like this before winter sets in.

2011-11-13T23:12:00.000-06:00

This post is a bit late, but the dreaded stomach bug went rampant through our home and "inner circle" beginning Halloween night. Ick!

Pirate Xach and Pepper Jack

Xach and his best pal, Audrey, at Granny and Pappy's annual pumpkin carving.

Trick or Treating at Mimi and Grandad's

World Series 2011

2011-11-08T20:20:00.000-06:00

We were proud of the Rangers for making it to the World Series this year, but quite disappointed in the end result. We did have fun watching them this season, though. Xach went with Dada to a game this summer. Of course, I have no pictures of the event because I didn't attend :-/

Here are some pics of the boys in their gear.

This one makes me laugh every time!

We went to Game 5

It was a BEAUTIFUL evening, and we witnessed a win and "bullpen-gate" :)

6 months

2011-10-21T23:15:00.000-05:00

October 20, 2011

Half a year ago our world changed dramatically.

I can't believe it has been 6 months since Jack joined us!

He has the sweetest little personality!

{brotherly love}

He has a natural mohawk!

Don't you just feel like this sometimes??

sweet feet

The next 6 months should keep us on our toes :)

Finding our normal once again!

2011-10-08T20:51:00.000-05:00

I was told to give it about 4 months with the second baby to get into a good routine. At 5 1/2 months, we are settling into our "normal" for the first time with two kids.

Jack was born in the late spring, and summer is just crazy around here. Fall is when our "routine" really begins. And by routine, I mean Dada preaches 6+ times a week and leads worship at least 3 times. Mama is involved in two ministries at the church with another in the works on top of working part-time. Needless to say, I look forward to weekends when nothing is planned. We need the time to rest up to do it all over again!

Here are some pics from the past few weeks:

The boys before church

Special visit from Mere (and Jay) last weekend!

Mamoo and PawPaw also visited. They are pictured with only Jack because Xach said, "I don't want my picture taken!" He was a bit of a stinker last weekend.

Jack looks fluorescent next to Mamoo's skin :)

snuggling with PawPaw

The weather has been much cooler, so we have been playing outside! Golf, baseball, and sidewalk chalk are among the favorites right now.

We celebrated Dada's birthday at the end of last month.

Xach and Mimi made him this fun cake!

The brothers continue to be equally amazed by one another :)

We made a palette in the floor Thursday night and watched a movie.

Xach has known how to count for awhile now, but he is finally learning how to make his fingers cooperate with counting to 10.

Baby "Treasure" Trevor came to visit last night. He and Jack will be good buds once they are a little older!

Happy FALL Y'all!!

2011-09-24T20:45:00.000-05:00

We have had a wonderful family day!

We spent time doing some fall crafts that I had my eye on thanks to pinterest...

Painting pumpkins

{mama's finished product}

making fabric pumpkins...the two little pumpkins, I didn't make the big one :)

mixing up some yummy fall trail mix

picking out the perfect pumpkins to put under the oak tree

All of our fall decor is out! This is my favorite time of year!!

Super Xach and Dada spent some time outside playing with the new rocket ship.

And Jack was happy to have grown long enough to bounce in the jumparoo!

5 months and sweet brothers!

2011-09-21T12:40:00.000-05:00

Happy 5 months baby Jack!

You are showing us your personality now. You are a sweet-natured, laid back little guy; however, when you want something (your bottle), you WANT IT NOW! Oh goodness!

Also, you are on the brink of becoming mobile.

By this time next month you might be crawling!!

You and brother have become good pals.

He loves to love on you.

And help take care of you. If he's in sight, you are watching his every move.

This next month should be fun, little guy!

Football through the years...

2011-09-21T11:52:00.000-05:00

a little getaway

2011-09-21T10:57:00.000-05:00

Mama and Dada took a trip to Las Vegas and had a wonderful time together.

It was nice to get away from our busy weekly routine and focus on one another! Thank you, Mamoo, for watching the boys!

Soccer

2011-09-21T10:49:00.000-05:00

Xach started soccer this year.

He enjoys practice, but the games aren't his favorite.

Why?

The whistle is frightening, and it hurts his ears!

Friends

2011-09-21T10:37:00.000-05:00

I don't know if I've ever mentioned it on my blog, but I am so fortunate to get to "do life" with the most amazing group of women. They are the source of my encouragement, laughter, and advice.

These are photos from our "Real Housewives" bunco last month. I'm thankful for my friends!

4 months

2011-08-21T17:15:00.000-05:00

August 20, 2011

Happy 4 months, sweet little man!

Jack is experiencing many new things:

He enjoys his carrots and cereal just like another little boy I know :)

He is developing a schedule instead of sleeping all the time.

This is his favorite sleep position.

We are beginning to wear shoes. Xach thinks it's neat that their shoes "match".

They are equally amazed by one another right now.

baby blues

Jack has always been mesmerized by his feet,

and he is figuring out how to reach them and play with them.

We think he might be beginning to teethe. He chews on his hands often.

Overall, he's a happy little guy!

Special Trip Day 2

2011-08-17T12:41:00.001-05:00

On day 2 we had our Sea World adventure.

Dada researched our trip and bought tickets to a Sesame Street breakfast.

Xach was very excited when the characters entered the room (we kept it a secret from him); however, he was a bit apprehensive when we got up close.

Warming up to Bert and Ernie.

Elmo was the only character who got a hug!

I could watch the whales all day...of course Dada put us in the big splash zone. I wouldn't want to sit there all day!

Look under the screen in the photo below. There are two heads coming out of the water. One of the whales had a baby this year, and the baby did everything the mom did. They swam, jumped, and ate together. So sweet!

SOAKED. He screamed and cried. Just as he calmed down, we would get splashed again. The water is ice cold!

HUGE WHALE

Xach says the Elmo Pirate show was his favorite part of the trip. Go figure!

Learning about sea creatures with Dada.

A very tired 3-year-old at the end of a very special trip!

Special Trip Day 1

2011-08-17T11:29:00.000-05:00

We took Xach on a special trip for his birthday. We left Jack with Mimi and hit the road!

First stop: Austin and Grandma Sissy's house

She and Mama cooked a delicious meal!

Xach took that lunchpail full of snacks everywhere we went. I looked back there at one point, and he was covered in orange from the Cheetos he found.

We were true tourists and took a detour to a wildlife safari that we saw advertisements for while driving.

My favorite!

Next stop: San Antonio

Magic Time Machine

The Westin on the Riverwalk. Xach had some important coloring to do when we arrived.

View from our room. We highly recommend priceline.com - this room was a steal!

Mama and Xach

(as you can see, makeup is just not that important these days)

Remembering Faith

2011-08-17T10:33:00.000-05:00

Our sweet Faith passed away on August 11 just after we put the boys to bed. She held on to her last bit of life until Reid and I were at her side.

The loss of Faith has hit me harder than I thought it would. She was my fur baby before we had kids. She has been with me through two difficult pregnancies...one of two faithful companions to spend my lonely days at home with when I was on bedrest. She was a source of comfort and "somone" to talk to. After my babies were born, she and I spent countless hours in the living room for middle-of-the-night feedings.

She made us smile. How could you see that face and not smile?

It upset her when I cried. She would flop her big head on my lap or paw at my leg. I'm writing this post, then I'm done crying. We are thankful for the time that she was in our lives.

Xach is taking the news well. The two of them were buds. They played in the living room for about 30 minutes the night that she died. I am thankful for that last play time.

Xach says that she is in heaven, and that

Granddad Booger is putting medicine on her to make her feel better.

Today when we came in from strollin', Xach said "Who's here? It's just my dogs!" He looked at me for a moment and said, "Well, Laney is here. Faith is not, but she is still my dog."

We love and miss you, sweet 'Faifer'. You will always be our dog.

Happy 3rd Birthday

2011-08-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

August 8, 2011

Dear Xach,

This year has been such a fun one! You are becoming so independent - you love to show us the new things you can do without our help. You enjoy several things, but I think your favorite is just being at home with your toys and your family. A family member asked us recently why you "stick" to us when we are places where other kids are playing. My response was, "He likes us! We are fun!"

Your love for the Lord is so evident. You love to read your Bible with Dada each night, and you have memorized so many hymns of praise. I love it when you spontaneously begin singing a hymn. It is so encouraging to hear "Great is Thy Faithfulness" after I have spent a small fortune at the grocery store :)

This year has brought a big change in your world - your baby brother, Jack. You have responded with such care and love. Thank you. I know it can't be easy to share Mama and Dada, but you are so understanding. I love to see you interact with Jack. He adores you, already. I know you will be a wonderful big brother this next year.

You truly are my SONshine, even though you say, "No I'm not! I'm not sunshine!" We look forward to seeing His light shine through you this next year. Happy Birthday!

Love,
Mama

Xach's 3rd birthday at Mimi & Grandad's house

2011-08-17T07:14:00.000-05:00

After looking online for some cake ideas, Mimi gave Xach two choices: Elmo cake or Max and Ruby.
Xach chose Max and Ruby then said, "Mema will make me an Elmo cake."

We had already celebrated his birthday with Mema while we were at Mamoo and PawPaw's house. Also, there is NO WAY Mema can pull off an Elmo cake. Not her thing.

The morning of Xach's 3rd birthday I went to the store to find some treats to take to Grannie's house (the sitter). Look what happened to be sitting in the bakery! I was so excited!

That evening, we went to Mimi and Grandad's for Xach's birthday dinner.

The Max and Ruby cake

sweet birthday boy!

Baylor alumni holding a future Red Raider

Playing Farm Uno after opening gifts

First bites!

2011-08-16T23:38:00.000-05:00

On August 2nd we gave Jack his first "bites." He has had cereal in his milk since he was 5 weeks old to help with his reflux, so it's nothing new. The spoon was new, though. He liked the process much better than his brother did!

Since then, he hasn't done as well. He doesn't get upset, but he pushes most of the cereal out with his tongue. I waited a few weeks and tried again tonight. He did much better!

3rd birthday party at Mamoo and PawPaw's

2011-08-16T22:55:00.000-05:00

The morning after the wedding, we crawled out of bed after a very short night to have Xach's 3rd birthday party with his cousins. This mama was too tired to make the birthday treats she had planned, so...

The bottom layer of the leftover wedding cake was constructed into a birthday cake. It was a yummy cake, and we celebrated with it twice :)

The boys waking up to join the party

Reid found his friend in the closet!

Xach and Mamoo

"This party is really great, Mama!"

sweet boy

grandboys

Xach was the most excited about his cards and concerned that I would lose them!

(We still have them and look at them daily.)

THE tricylce. Xach woke up in tears one Saturday morning. He was so upset that I couldn't understand him. Once we got him calmed down, he said very seriously, "I need to call Mamoo." We were still unsure what the cause of the early morning meltdown was. We got her on the phone right away, and he said, "I want a red tricycle like Will's for my birthday. And my pirate ship, too."

Mamoo and PawPaw fulfilled that important request while Mema and Pepa supplied the pirate ship. Silly kid!

Will giving Jack some love.

what a classy cake :)

Pepa, Shay, and Jack

loading up to go home

On the way home we stopped at Dave & Busters in Dallas. It was a great way to break up the trip!

Afterparty

2011-08-16T22:06:00.000-05:00

After the wedding we had a big party with family and friends. It's always interesting and fun with all of Mamoo and PawPaw's grandkids under one roof (8 boys and a baby girl on the way)!

We were excited to visit with some sweet friends from Roswell.

We lived there from 1991-1996 and made lifelong friendships. These families are spread across 3 different states, and they all met up at the wedding. It was fun catching up!

Jack got a lot of loving from

Mema

Pepa

Honey

Mamoo (early the next morning)

Xach and the rest of the grandboys got to stay up until around 1:30 in the morning.

Here he is double-fisting twizzlers while watching a movie with Shay at midnight. I know some of you scheduled Mama's are gasping...he's no worse for the wear ;)

~Aunt P's wedding~

2011-08-16T21:44:00.000-05:00

Aunt P and Andrew (Uncle Andrew, now!) married on July 30. It was a beautiful wedding, and I'm so happy for my sister. I hope the photographer did a good job (it seemed like she did as she was clicking away), because I think these are the only photos we have. Mama was the Matron of Honor, Dada was the minister, Xach was the ring bearer, and Jack can't operate a camera.

Beautiful Bride

pre-wedding counseling

some of the nephews with Aunt P

he was proud of his shoes!

"Mama, these fit perfect! Go get me some at Wal-Mart since we have to take these back."

I didn't get to photograph much of the groom :(

Beautiful photo, I think! :)

Congrats, Aunt P and Uncle Andrew. We wish you a lifetime of happiness!

5 years

2011-08-04T23:00:00.001-05:00

Today we celebrate 5 years of marriage. This year we celebrate 13 years together.

This guy truly makes me as happy as I look in this photo (night of our engagement).

The card he gave me today sounds like it was written for us:

Someday, many years from now,

We'll look back on this crazy time

In our life together

And wonder how we did it all...

And then, those ordinary, everyday moments

That we often take for granted

Will shimmer like stars

As we recount them.

I'll sit close beside you,

You'll take my hand in yours.

We'll look at each other and say:

"I'd do it all again, and I wouldn't change a thing."

3 months

2011-07-24T22:46:00.000-05:00

Happy 3 months, sweet Jack.

Your sweet smiles make our days brighter.

Your brother is so proud and protective of you.

He loves you so much!

The two of you make Mama and Dada's hearts overflow with joy!

Family, Fun, and the Fourth

2011-07-22T20:25:00.000-05:00

The week of the 4th we spent time with Mimi and Grandad as well as all of the aunts, uncles, and cousins on that side of the family.

Aunt Sissy playing in the pool

big boys playing with Xach

he thought he was really making them fall down with his noodle :)

sweet Jackson

helping Mimi wash dishes

Family photo at the parade

Trying to be patient while waiting for the parade

Mimi and Jack

smiling at Mama once we were inside under the AC

back at Mimi and Grandad's these two played nonstop

See the rubber glove? The doctor and nurse were in full force :)

Carnival trip #2

2011-07-21T23:15:00.000-05:00

We live beside the park that the carnival is held in, so of course we heard all about the carnival each time we would get in the car. Mimi and Granddad treated the younger cousins to a carnival trip, so off we went again!

Apprehensive Betsy Grace and the "old pro".

I would be hanging on, too, if Cooper was driving :)

"MIMI, I WANT OFF!"

Ready for his seatbelt!

Granddad and the girls in line for tickets.

Kendra REALLY wanted to ride the Zipper, but she was required to have a partner...we can't believe that Granddad stepped up to the plate!

Off they go!

dizzy duo

hugs from Aunt Amy

as we were about to leave, we saw a friend and rode a few more rides

first trip to the carnival

2011-07-17T19:00:00.000-05:00

When the carnival came to town, we didn't think Xach would be quite old enough to attend - he is a a cautious child, and we figured he would need another year of growth under his belt.

One afternoon at Granny and Pappy's house, Pappy pointed out the front-page newspaper photo of the carnival to Xach and Audrey. That day they talked about the carnival and devised a plan that involved a "miracle round" and a trip down a very large slide...

Audrey, Pappy, and Xach on a mission.

(look at Xach's feet in the air - he's so excited!)

getting warmed up on the boats and motorcycles

getting brave on the airplanes

smiling and waving at Mama and Dada

(we showed up after they had been there about an hour)

Kaleb and Aven

off to the "miracle round"

I took a 2-month-old to the carnival.

"Mama, are you crazy?!"

Xach insisted on riding the ferris wheel. I CANNOT BELIEVE IT!!

being brave with Dada

Audrey was having none of that. She watched from a distance.

ready for the next ride...

this would be Dada realizing that he would have to assist on the next ride as well :)

the last part of the "plan":

the kids and Pappy talked all week about how Audrey

would go down the pink slide and Xach would go down the green slide

best friends sliding with best friends :)

Granny and Pappy!

she hates photos

Audrey "driving" Xach

Granny doing what she does best

Aven mesmerized by the lights and colors

cheering section

Such a fun night with great friends!!

Smiles and Giggles

2011-07-01T17:44:00.000-05:00

I finally caught a photo of this sweet smile...

-FOLLOWED BY-

A photo of his first little laugh. :)

Pool Time!

2011-07-01T17:26:00.000-05:00

We took the boys swimming one evening. At 7:00 pm it was 104 degrees.

Jack wasn't a fan of the refreshing water at first.

He eventually relaxed and enjoyed his first dip in the pool!

Xach and Dada chased each other around the pool.

Jack and I mostly sat and talked. :)

2 months!

2011-06-25T16:16:00.000-05:00

Hey, you!

I turned two months old this week.

Shocking, I know.

It's a tiring feat, all this growing.

I'm gonna take a rest under this shade tree.

Come back soon to see me!

be still my heart

2011-06-25T16:07:00.000-05:00

I have the new privilege of staying home with my kids 1-2 days during the work week. These are fun days for all of us even if we never leave the house!

I get to wake up to their sweet faces, then make breakfast.

Marshmallows with pancakes...why not?!

Sometimes we go to a "special place".

One of those special places is swimming.

I think we will also attempt story time at the library this week!

SuMmEr!

2011-06-15T23:45:00.001-05:00

He's fat and happy :)

and he's tall and independent :)

He LOVES to swing

and is becoming more alert.

He LOVES to paint

and is becoming a big boy right before my eyes!

We are enjoying summertime.

Today, Xach and Mama spent some time in the pool with Xach's cousins and Aunt ShuShu (below). I'm now officially a part-time employee. I have wanted more time at home with my family for awhile now, and I'm blessed to have the opportunity to do so. I'm having fun with my boys - it's still new and feels like a treat when I have days off at home!

We attempted a self portrait after church 2 weeks ago. This was the best we could get. Xach thought it was so much fun to rush into Dada's arms over and over after Dada set the timer.

We have a packed schedule moving forward. We are busy and tired, but this is fun!!

A little getaway, a LOT of luggage

2011-06-08T22:10:00.001-05:00

Dada took us to Dallas to meet up with Mamoo and Pawpaw. The boys and Mama rode back to their house with them for the week. Mama tried to pack light, but I have a NEWBORN and they need so much "stuff". The Mamoo and PawPaw had to buy a luggage carrier to put on the top of their ride to transport us. Oops. I wish now that I would have taken a picture of the PawPaw getting it all strapped down, but it probably wasn't appropriate at the time ;)

First out-of-state trip at 5 weeks old!

The "old pro" at this long trip. He did great!

Aunt P meets Jack for the first time.

Silly Aunt P

Aunt P and the soon-to-be "Uncle" Andrew with the boys.

First swim of the summer...too bad he wouldn't leave the step.

Mamoo fit into the kiddie ride at the mall with Xach.

Maybe Mamoo's flowers didn't suffer too much.

Xach did a lot of flower picking that week!

Mowing the grass with PawPaw.

They aren't hurting for rain like we are here.

We travelled back to the dry air to meet back up

with Dada at Mema and Pepa's house.

Lazy morning with Mamoo

Aunt Sherri meets Jack

Xach had plans to go fishing, and he told me all about them.

The tank needs some rain. See the dock to the left? Those steps should be under water.

I was really hoping at this point that the fishing expedition would be successful.

How do you explain to a 2 year old that the fish just weren't biting??

Success!

Xach's first fish!

I love to look at the sky when I'm at "White Chapel".

The trip was a nice change of scenery since I have been in this house "waiting for my egg to hatch" since January. I returned home and started back to work!

One month

2011-06-08T21:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm a little late posting this...

I took these photos a few weeks ago when Jack was one month old. When Xach was a month old, I took a similar photo with him. Maybe I can remember to do this with all of my babies!

During our photo session Jack was quite impressed with his right foot.

"Mama, have you seen the size of these feet??"

Happy one month, sweet boy. You fit right into our crazy lives.

We love you and we are so glad you are here :)

Art Day at the College

2011-06-08T21:15:00.000-05:00

A few weekends ago our local junior college hosted an art day for children in our community. We met up with the Sweet Peanut Grower :) and her Sweet Pea for some outdoor fun.

Fishing for ducks

Getting a "Texas Tech Rangers Thang" painted on our hand

Xach was very into this activity while Sweet Pea wasn't having it!

Friends scoping out what to do next

the "bouncy bouncy"

contributing to the sidewalk art

looking at the buffalo in the museum...and we are still talking about this buffalo!

Whoa

2011-06-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

my hands are really full, but so is my heart

I'm taking photos along the way, and I'll get them on here soon!

this & that

2011-05-19T10:48:00.000-05:00

We are doing normal things as a family of 4 now. What might look boring or mundane to the world has me absolutely giddy inside! We are all home and healthy, and we are taking care of our boys. That is all I have wanted for months. See what "normal" things we have been doing!!

first bath...he's not a fan!

soccer outside on beautiful spring evenings

taking a "time out" to pick "flowers" for Mama

soccer spectators

sleeping - I love that little foot!

going out only when we have to

being silly

"strollin'"

(I actually ran a very short distance with these guys last night - I'm ready to get back into shape!)

playing with Mimi

getting to know Grandad

hanging out

snuggling with the puppy

and more strollin'

Thank you, Lord, for answered prayers!!

Baby Dedication

2011-05-10T11:13:00.000-05:00

Jack was discharged from the hospital just in time for Mother's Day and our church's annual baby dedication.

I was more than happy to have everyone home and healthy for Mother's Day!

Baby dedication is so special as it is a promise we make as a family and as a church body to raise our child in an environment that proclaims the belief and love of Christ.

another bump in the road...

2011-05-09T11:22:00.000-05:00

Just when we thought that maybe our household was experiencing some normalcy...

Last week we spent some time at Covenant Children's Hospital. Baby Jack was treated for bronchiolitis as well as a milk protein allergy that was discovered while we were there. We are beyond thankful for the care he received during our stay as well as the prayers that were offered on our behalf from so many. We are back home and hope to stay clear of hospitals for a very long time :)

Getting settled

2011-04-28T23:20:00.000-05:00

A few days after returning from the hospital, my blood pressure began to run very high. I have had to take medicine and stay down a large part of the time. At the same time, Xachariah became ill with bronchitis. We are thankful for all of the prayers and assistance from family and friends. Mamoo and PawPaw stayed longer than expected, then Mema came for a few days. Mimi is also helping with Xach and is "on call" should any more problems arise. Our parents/grandparents have done almost 100% of the housework over the past week. Thank you all so much. We are happy to all be on the mend and prayerful that we stay that way. We are so grateful for Mommy Meals from our church as we are in survival mode for now!

Jack snuggled with PawPaw after a good sponge bath from Mamoo.

Dada and Jack after another bath.

sweet kisses

happy to be feeling better!

Mema

Mimi

this precious face is worth it all

My big boy and his awesome dada

2011-04-28T22:58:00.000-05:00

The birth of Jack has made me realize how much Xachariah has grown up.

The kid is already shaving ;)

Shaving with Dada is serious business.

All kidding aside, he really is growing up way too fast. He is adjusting so well to being a big brother.

Easter 2011

2011-04-28T22:37:00.000-05:00

Since things around here were a bit hectic during the Easter season, Xach colored eggs with Mimi.

I was determined, swollen body and all, to attend Easter Sunday services with my family.

Xachariah filled up his Easter bucket at church, so he hunted with a pink basket at Mimi and Grandad's. He ran at full speed to get those eggs!

Jack with Kendra and Aunt ShuShu

Jack and Aunt Sissy

First photo shoot

2011-04-28T22:00:00.000-05:00

The OB nurses at our hospital take photos of all the newborns in their little studio. They took Jack one night while I slept like a baby myself! I woke up to these sweet images the next morning.

Welcome Baby Jack!!

2011-04-28T21:50:00.002-05:00

Jack Eddie Johnson

4:33 am 4/20/11

7 pounds, 1 ounce

19.25 inches

Baby Jack with his family...

Mama is elated in the photo below, but that was the roughest "all-nighter" that I've ever had. We are so thankful that the end result was a healthy baby and mommy.

Aunt ShuShu was the first to visit. I don't have a photo... :(

My sweet friend, Sarah, and her husband, Chet, were the next to visit. Baby Jack wasn't but a few hours old, and they brought the sweetest framed photo of him! Sarah, I know you feel badly that you visited so early, but it meant the world to us - and I am so thankful that you were able to get my unruly hair out of my face. Your visit warmed our hearts :)

Mamoo and PawPaw left their home in the middle of the night to come see Jack.

MiMi also arrived to hold her new grandson. She stayed with Xachariah all night.

Sweet Xachariah seeing "his baby" for the first time.

Mamoo showing Xach how to hold Jack's hand.

My boys!!

Mema and Pepa (great grandparents) were next.

MawMaw (great grandma) visited us when we arrived home.

PawPaw and Xach watched basketball and ate Goldfish that evening. In my pain-medicine-induced state, I threatened to throw PawPaw out of the room if he didn't quit making me laugh (that hurts w/a new c-section!) Sorry, PawPaw!

Kasey came to visit us in the hospital. So did other sweet friends, and I didn't get a photo of them, either!

Dr. Xach came to "check out" baby Jack.

He gave him the "all clear" to come home.

He didn't understand why he couldn't come home with him that night.

First photo with my boys.

Such a sweet big brother. Aunt Jackie came to take photos of the boys. I can't find a photo with her, either. I feel badly that I didn't do that great keeping up with picture taking.

I talked the doctor into releasing me a day early. I felt so much better, and I just wanted to be home. Mamoo was at the hospital with me since we sent Dada home with Xach to take a much needed nap. The discharge process happened quickly, and we were stranded with no car. Dada couldn't hear his phone, so I had to call a friend of ours (Billy) to go wake him up. It was all a bit hectic. As I was on the phone, Jack started to hold his own bottle. He was showing me that he could take care of himself :)

Ready to go home!!

Jack meeting Delaney for the first time - she has been so sweet to her new brother!

Blog Designs

2011-04-11T23:18:00.001-05:00

I've been busy designing blogs. Here are a few of the finished products. Click on each header to view the entire blog. There are some others that are in the works. I love matching each blog to the writer's personality! Who's next?!

Family blog for the Marsons

Family blog for the Mebanes

Custom logo and photography blog for Kasey Boatright Photography

Family blog for the Keens

35 Weeks...Hello, APRIL!

2011-04-02T19:45:00.000-05:00

Can I just tell you how relieved I am that the month of April is here? It has been a focal point throughout this entire pregnancy. Making it this far has allowed me to breathe a sigh of relief. Thank you, Lord!

Jack's "Sprinkle"

2011-04-02T19:29:00.000-05:00

Seven of my sweet friends (Rebecca, Sarah, Ashley, Melanie, Vanessa, Renae, and Maria) held a "sprinkle" for baby Jack and I last weekend. It was so cute!

I loved all the bright colors...and look at those cake pops!

Photos with my mom and with my step-sister. My Mema and Aunt Sherri came, too.

Pictures of friends and family. I didn't get a photo with my hostesses :(

Rushaun and Elizabeth, friends from Midland, surprised me!

(center photo below)

We were so blessed with diapers, wipes, and giftcards for all the necessities! Plus, the girls got us a double jogging stroller - I'm so ready to be able to spend time outdoors with my two guys! Thank you so much, ladies, it was a special time.

Fun with Mamoo

2011-04-02T19:18:00.000-05:00

We had fun last week with Mamoo! The weather was nice, so Xach was able to play in the sunshine.

Big appetite for chicken and the WORD!

2011-03-30T23:02:00.003-05:00

Xach was so hungry this evening. To start, he ate 6 dino nuggets, 2 string cheese sticks, two handfuls of dried cranberries, and 7 crackers. After that he had half of a whole-wheat apple muffin then asked, "Will you make pancakes?" Xach has never been a big eater. I have been shoving calories in that little mouth since birth. It's something I cried over when he was an infant! I was so proud that he ate so much tonight. Little did I know that he would be consuming some big spiritual calories as well!! I coaxed him away from the table to get ready for bed by mentioning that we would read his new Bible.

Let me tell you about this Bible, called the Jesus Storybook Bible. The subtitle says, "Every story whispers his name." It was given to Xach by someone I consider a son, Tyler Price, while he was in town last week.

It is a Bible story book that I would even recommend as a tool for adults! Instead of a cutesy children's Bible filled with a collection of moral lessons from the Old Testament with a separate story/section that tells of the birth and life of Jesus, this author brings each story (21 from the Old Testament and 23 from the New Testament) full circle back to Jesus. Old Testament stories foreshadow Who is to come. One reviewer writes:

She [the author] has no problem writing about death and the blood that is required of God for the atonement of sins, which most children’s Bibles do not touch. In so doing, she builds the biblical theology of sacrificial atonement to the crescendo of the cross. After the crucifixion, burial, resurrection and ascension of Christ, she shows how the New Testament builds upon the Old as well as how we as believers today eagerly await the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior.

Tonight, Xach and I read two stories taken from Matthew 6: a story about how to pray followed by another story about worry. It is amazing how much he soaked up!

We talked about forgiveness during the story about prayer. He said, "Mama, I'm nice." I reassured him that he is a nice boy, but that sometimes he does things that aren't nice. Immediately he said, "Like when I threw my wipees today?" (In a fit of anger when I told him "No.") His understanding gave me a good reference to talk about sin (not being nice) and that Jesus was so nice, and when we aren't nice it hurts other people's feelings as well as Jesus' feelings. We need to tell Jesus we are sorry just like we need to tell Mama and Dada we are sorry. In his prayer tonight, he asked Jesus, "Forgive me when I'm not nice."

When talking about worry and being afraid, we giggled thinking about how the Lord provides for the birds of the air. When we go to the grocery store, there aren't any birds or chickens there! Why? Because God provides food for them. I asked Xach, "Do you think God loves us more than he loves a chicken?" He giggled, "YES!" He pointed to the pictures and said, "God loves Xach so much!" I was able to explain that we shouldn't fear or worry about things because He is watching over us. That is a lesson I need to hear daily!! While praying tonight, Xach said, "Thank you for helping me not be afraid."

I am excited about reading with him every night. Dada was at church during all of this, and he was so excited to hear about our conversation. More than anything in this world, I want my children to know the great, unfailing love of the Lord. I want them to walk in His ways and serve Him. Xach's hunger tonight was so encouraging.

Happy Late Birthday, Mamoo!

2011-03-24T11:39:00.001-05:00

Happy late birthday, Mamoo;

Cupcakes and trick candles for you!

Xach spit on your cupcake;

It's a good thing several were baked!

Cupcakes

2011-03-24T11:25:00.000-05:00

With Mamoo on her way to spend some time with Xach and Mama, we wanted to make cupcakes to celebrate her recent birthday. Xach was insistent, "I want to cook them allllll by MYSELF!"

Special Trip

2011-03-24T11:22:00.001-05:00

Xach took a special day trip with Dada and the youth during Spring Break. They went to Main Event in another town and took the bus. Mama was a bit nervous about the whole trip, but I knew he was in great hands!

Little guy was SO excited about riding on the bus.

Mama felt much better knowing that Casey would be next to him on the trip while Dada drove.

The youth kids were a big help!

I am glad he went. He is still talking about his special trip with Dada!!

"It's a beautiful day, Mama."

2011-03-23T16:28:00.000-05:00

One afternoon after staying at the sitter's house, Xach informed me, "It's a beautiful day, Mama."

We initially went outside so that he could kick his soccer ball, but he insisted that the lawn needed to be mowed, first.

Then, it was serious business kicking that soccer ball.

The yard work couldn't be set aside for long, though.

Next on the agenda was a concert. I was assigned the guitar until he told me that I wasn't playing it right.

Then, the kitchen opened up for dinner.

Hotdogs. My favorite!

He has been asking to go "strollin," but I'm not able to take him right now. Our hero saved the day!

Hello-copter!

2011-03-22T23:52:00.000-05:00

Our small airport was recently a refueling station for 6 black hawk helicopters that were en-route to Colorado. Volunteers served the airmen lunch before they returned on their journey. We heard about the scheduled landing and made sure our "hello-copter" fan was there for the view!

Dada and Xach

Mabry telling Xach about the hello-copters.

They were large and made the dirt blow even more that windy day!

Poor little guy...

2011-03-22T23:40:00.000-05:00

This blog is about our life. I want to look back at it (or the book that I will make from it) when I am old and remember the simple things that made our family time meaningful. It might be weird to post about my child being sick, but I want to remember the things that made him comfortable at this age!

A few weeks ago, Xach had an icky virus that caused him to have a fever and earache for 5 days. Delaney is a faithful friend - if a person in our family is ill, she doesn't leave that person's side.

Xach found comfort in his furry friend as well as "blanket" and "'nother blanket"... formerly known as "more blanket." :)

You will see in the following posts that he is back to good health - of course the rest of us had to catch it, first!

Changes

2011-03-15T00:07:00.001-05:00

You may have noticed that the blog has changed! I have been interested in blog design for awhile. Now that I have to be at home most of the time, I have learned the craft! Look below the tree header on my page and you will see several "tabs" or "headings" that will direct you to different pages on the blog. There is a tab for Blog Design Packages if your blog needs a facelift. What's that? You DON'T HAVE A BLOG?? Let me help you get started!

32 weeks!

2011-03-11T01:07:00.000-06:00

I decided to take some belly photos today of baby Jack and I because, well, I actually used a blow dryer on my hair :) Unfortunately, make-up application and hair styling are not daily occurrences right now! We need some belly photos for Jack's baby book. That can be checked off the list!

As you can see, I can no longer see my feet when I'm standing. My sweet husband treated me to a pedicure last week, tho, and it was amazing! The lady that did my pedicure had all sorts of advice for me from her own culture. She "mothered" me for about an hour. It was quite interesting, and she wouldn't let me get up until I had drank my entire bottle of water.

"Let's go ride my jeep!"

2011-03-11T00:24:00.000-06:00

Freely Me Designs SALE!

2011-03-10T11:07:00.000-06:00

There are two new sections at the Freely Me Design store: pre-made logos and stationery! To celebrate, there is a 15% off SALE today (ends at midnight) with a special coupon code. How do you get the code? "Like" our facebook page, then send me a message and I will reply with the code!

How fun is this personalized print-at-home stationery? For a one-time fee, you will have the file at your fingertips to print up a cute notecard at any time!

These also make cute thank-you notes!

an update

2011-02-26T20:13:00.001-06:00

I'm still at home allowing baby Jack to grow and develop without those pesky contractions squeezing on him! It is working - my physician and specialist have given me good reports, and I don't have to return for 4 weeks. I go to the hospital twice a week for monitoring. We are in good hands! The 30 week mark is today, and baby Jack is ahead of growth by 1 week. I guess that means he is a little larger than the head of cabbage he is supposed to be this week!

This was taken of Jack last week. Isn't it amazing?!

We celebrated Valentine's Day with some couples from our Sunday School class. The wives surprised the husbands with dinner in a rented banquet room. We each decorated our own table and split up the cooking responsibilities. I was only able to do it with the help of my sweet "Godly Girlfriends!" Reid and I enjoyed the quiet, peaceful dinner and even danced (waddled is more like it) to one of our songs.

I'm a bit swollen in the photo below due to the steroid shots that week to help out Jack's lungs, but it's still a good memory!

Our special china on our table.

The invitations we gave our husbands.

our table

I love these chandeliers!

The entire room was just beautiful!

Here I am at 29 weeks.

Many people have asked how Xach is responding to the fact that Jack will be arriving soon. He is excited! He's growing so fast, and he keeps us laughing most of the time.

Lately, he answers questions by beginning with the word "well..." He draws that word out as he thinks of how he's going to answer.

Dada and Xach enjoy playing in the evenings. Here they are making the yo-yo "hop" as Xach says. Another activity they enjoy is Mario Cart on the Wii. That is a special treat that Xach has reserved a special dance for!

I probably won't update again for a few weeks! We are in a "slow season" of life at the moment. It's quite peaceful around here, but it's also not extremely exciting :)

Faithfulness

2011-02-11T22:29:00.004-06:00

I have so many thoughts tonight. I found this verse after putting my sweet Xach to bed. We took the above photo together this evening. He was telling his brother goodnight, giving him "kisses, and sugars, and hugs."

The enemy is constantly whispering to me, "You're not doing enough. This is never going to work. What is going to happen if... when..." My God is so much greater than him, and we are going to have to sweep him off the porch daily. Xach, get the broom!!

Oh, Xach. That kid blows our socks off! We sing several hymns before he tells my "goodnight!" One of the hymns that he favors lately is "Great Is Thy Faithfulness". What a powerful message those words hold for me. Now that he has it memorized, he randomly sings it to me throughout the day. I know that the Lord impresses that song on his heart when I need to be reminded of His great faithfulness. After picking up some items at the grocery store, Xach sang on the way home:

ALL I HAVE NEEDED THY HAND HATH PROVIDED

GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS, LORD UNTO ME!

I have taken an early maternity leave. I am at 28 weeks, and my body is not very tolerant of pregnancy. I am having to take it easy most of my day to keep labor away. I am no longer officially on bedrest, and I don't want to be there again, much less in the hospital!! Jack's life inside of me is precious and his days are ordained. He is God's vessel - God has taught me so much through his life already. I am willing to do whatever it takes to ensure his health and safety.

I am SO SO blessed to have a supportive husband. He is constantly reminding me that I do not need to worry about working or finances right now. My only responsibility is to take care of me, baby Jack, and Xach with a GREAT DEAL of his help. He helped before, but my goodness the chores he is taking on now just amaze me. He's the best.

It is still difficult for me. We have always shared the financial and physical responsibilities in the home. It took a great deal of prayer to aid me in that decision. I need to do whatever I can to protect my child and my body. And I need to rely on the LORD, not myself to provide. It hit me last weekend that I should be relying on His provisions rather than my own 100% of the time, whether I am working or not. Yet another lesson that I hope to hold onto wherever He leads us. I know that the situation we are in is temporary, and it is small compared to the struggles that others are faced with. But my heart is still heavy, and I struggle daily.

The mornings are odd to me. I feel like the dogs look at me like, "Why aren't you getting ready?" It is strange to not be in a rush, checking work email, double-checking my schedule, etc. I try to leave myself some encouragement in the kitchen the night before so that I'm greeted with reminders of His love and peace.

As Xach sings,

MORNING

BY MORNING
BY MORNING
BY MORNING
BY MORNING
BY MORNING
NEW MERCIES I SEE!

He is faithful, and I am thankful.

Giveaway winner

2011-02-07T12:28:00.001-06:00

GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-01-31T15:12:00.000-06:00

I have been designing during my down time the past two weeks. There are several new designs in the Freely Me store. I'm featuring a giveaway this week! There are several ways to enter:

1. Go to the site, look around, then comment on this blog to let me know which design is your favorite.

2. Invite your friends to do the same. If they comment on the blog AND tell me that you sent them, they will get an entry, and you will get another one! :)

The winner will receive a free custom invitation, announcement, or thank-you card file. The winner may choose from something on the site, OR I can make something new just for you!!

The contest closes at 8 PM on Thursday, February 3rd. Have fun!

Make room for baby!

2011-01-24T23:01:00.000-06:00

The blog isn't the only thing that has received an overhaul!

Baby Jack is making his presence known more each day, and I kept looking around wondering where we were going to put him and all of his necessities!

After all, big brother Xach was still sleeping in his crib. Mamoo came to the rescue yet again! She rearranged and redecorated the boys' room so that everything fits perfectly! Mimi has been working behind the scenes as well doing laundry and cleaning so that when Mamoo arrived all would be ready for the big project. I'm on light duty for a bit, so I am extra thankful for these wonderful women!

Xachariah LOVES his new bed!

I love the clean lines and order in the room :)

...and this tree. I just love trees!

I was pleased with the bedding that we already had, but I didn't want to take away Xach's "blanket and more blanket." Instead, I found some material in coordinating stripes for Jack's blanket.

I also had a pillow case of the same material made for Xach.

Now they both have stripes and dots.

family day

2011-01-24T16:34:00.000-06:00

The day before Dada left for Bolivia, we had a wonderful family day together.

This hasn't been an easy pregnancy, so Xach and I haven't been walking to the park each day. It was a treat for him to visit the ducks again!

I sure do love these guys!

Christmas

2011-01-24T00:36:00.000-06:00

While Dada was finishing up a game with Mema that took FOREVER, I attempted to put together this train set from Santa. PawPaw saw that I was having a hard time. This is not part of my skill set. PawPaw told me to go "teach someone how to talk" and let him figure out the train set :)

Xach was very excited Christmas morning because "Santa came to see me again!"

Pepa and Xach went to check on the cows later that morning.

Mamoo and PawPaw

Mema made up a game with gifts. We have not laughed that hard in a long time. She just kept adding rules!

Merry Christmas!

Xach was a tired little guy after all of those "Christmas parties."

Christmas eve gift!

2011-01-24T00:00:00.001-06:00

Xach watching Mimi make her famous mashed potatoes.

"You have some 'tatoes??"

Snuggled with Uncle Mikey.

He sang "This I Know" (Jesus Love Me) and "Blessed Be the Name."

Following each song, he would say, "Rock it out!"

After a friendly game of basketball in the cold.

He likes to annoy Miss Kendra.

Santa came early on Christmas Eve...6:00 am according to tradition!

Excited about the toothbrush Santa left in his stocking!

Grandad, Xach, and Mimi

Aunt Sissy

Mama and Dada

Thank you, Grandad and Mimi, ShuShu and Uncle Jason for hosting us. We had so much fun!