Here We Go...

Liz is having a baby!!

2011-09-13T18:53:00.006-04:00

My little sister is having a baby. I was inspired to throw her a shower. She has thrown me many showers over the past several years, so it was only fair;) I had so much fun planning. Not knowing the gender, I went for polka dots, daisies and lots of white!!! You just can't go wrong with crisp, clean, classic white on white decor. We had a fun, relaxing time as we ate, gave wishes to the baby and showered Liz with lots of goodies. Liz is a super cute pregnant mommy. She and her husband Tommy are going love that little baby so very much. I can't wait to meet him/her in the very near future.

My friend Sara made the beautiful cake. She stayed up all night to deliver it fresh in time for the brunch!

I found this cute pancake idea on Pintrest.com. It is my new favorite internet pastime:)

Liz's favorite flowers are daisies.

I used my mother's milk glass collection to incorporate polka dots without being cheesy.

Candy bar favors...

Liz and our Aunt Krista

Cousins Lydia, Annalee and Avery

All Things New

2011-09-10T17:51:00.003-04:00

Our church started a three part series back in August. It was the beginning of a lot of life change for many members of our church. Over 180 salvations and over 260 baptisms took place over the past month. My sister was baptized earlier this year and then my father was baptized in July. Then in August during the series the church offered a spontaneous baptism for all those who had never taken that step and 6 members of our small group were baptized!!! So much celebrations, so many emotions. I just can't get over all that the Lord has done. I am so excited to see what He has in store for each of their lives. *check out this video of the highlights!

Where did the Summer go???

2011-09-10T17:40:00.004-04:00

What a whirlwind this Summer has been. I look back and I really can't remember what all happened, I just know it flew by!! I had lots of weddings to photograph, we went to Lake Powell with Shane's family, had two litters of puppies, began preparing for the school year and spent a lot of time indoors away from the crazy sauna outside. Here are a few photos of our sweet pups.

Soiree

2011-06-06T09:26:00.005-04:00

I love my ladies lifegroup. We spend every Wednesday morning swimming through endless chatter in order to dive deep into the life changing biblically based studies we choose each semester. The spiritual growth of the individuals is reflected in the group as a whole not only in our meetings each week, but everyday as we serve our families, our church, our community and ultimately our God. We are so very privileged to be able to do this "life" together and God designed it that way! He not only created us for fellowship, but provided it for us according to our individual needs. THAT astounds me! Well, enough preaching, I am really here to tell you about a beautiful, fun girl's night we had last week.

I teamed up with my friend Tammie to put on a Mid Summer's Night Soriee. I am not sure what defines a soriee, but it sure does sound girlie, so we ran with it. I will let the pictures speak for themselves. But, I will let you know, it was classy, a bit whimsical, elegant and altogether lovely. I enjoyed every moment of the planning, the crafting (thanks to a late night with Tammie making messy yarn balls), the shopping, the cooking and finally the evening itself. The sunsetting on our cream and gold themed party was breathtaking. While the glowing candles kept us calm, the stories and laughter recharged our hearts. I love these ladies!

Annalee is 7

2011-06-06T08:39:00.007-04:00

7 years ago I entered the world of motherhood. Technically, one could say it started 10 months prior to that, but I actually gave birth to my first baby girl, May 27th, at 8pm. I remember the excitement of that day as I realized at 6:30 in the morning that I really was in labor. I waited to call Shane home from work until 7:30am. He was out helping a friend build a house. He came home with a bit of haste, running around packing the car. I had to remind him that there was no rush and I had no intention of going to hospital anytime soon. I wanted to wait as long as possible in order to avoid the temptaion of an epidural, since I was bound and determined to have her without drugs. After a movie, some walking with my friend Natalie, a pedicure by my mom and a little rest, I called the midwife and told her I was on my way to the hospital. The contractions were two minutes apart, and I had a thirty minute car ride ahead of me. We endured that nasty ride (not at all recommended!) and finally settled into a delivery room. Upon being "checked" they staff went into speed mode because I was 8 cm and she was very low. But, it was all in vain as she took another five hours, including an hour and a half of pushing before she made her appearance. It was a beautiful experience, and as my good friend Sara calls it, "La-La-Laoborland" is one of my favorite places to be. It really is amazing what our bodies can do, and how they cope. It was truly a "high" you can't replicate and a memory I will cherish forever.

Annalee was, and still is a perfect angel. He first-born compliant nature is such a blessing in our semi-large family. Her nurturing spirit is appreciated by all and her selfless, giving heart is seen throughout or days. I stand in awe at her love of Jesus and her passion to know Him more. She loves to lead worship at church, read her Bible at night (she has been reading Philippians since she received her first Bible it last year;) and ask all kinds of questions about faith. Annalee is a socialite like her parents, and can hold her own in a crowd of children or adults. She is quite the talented athlete, balancing the grace of a ballerina and the speed of a sprinter. She loves to work hard and get dirty. But, she can be found playing dress-up and sipping tea an hour later.

I smile just thinking about my sweet girl, and I pray for her heart often. Thank you God for allowing us to have the privilege of loving, teaching, training and raising this beautiful daughter you gave us.

Sugar&Spice

2011-05-16T10:22:00.012-04:00

Several months back, our pastor taught a marriage series entitled "Sugar&Spice." Our very talented video producer, Bethany Ufema, made a super cute trailer for it, starring one of my favorite couples, The Beckers. Yes, we make our own videos in house. Yes, she is that good:) All that to say...we decided to host a Sugar&Spice Bonfire. Here is the original invite..

Ok, Ladies and Gents... Here is your chance to show off those culinary skills. We are going to have a good old fashioned ice cream social/wing fest/bonfire all wrapped up into one night. Men- your mission if you should choose to accept it is to create the best wing sauce you can come up with. It can be sweet, spicy, zesty or ranchy...your choice. Ladies, you are on ice cream duty. Homemade is the only requirement. If you don't have an ice cream maker, ask around. I have a couple:) Millers will provide all the paper products, hot dogs for the kiddos, condiments, ice, the fire and the bathroom. Since we don't need, or expect everyone to bring sauce and ice cream, we will need help with a few other things: frozen wings, deep fryers, drinks and sides. Please make sure you RSVP. I know this is not normal for our generation, but it is very necessary as we prepare. Thanks!! Looking forward to a SWEET night. Or HOT. Or, well, however you want to describe it. Please feel free to spread the word, just make sure to RSVP for all guests.

Even though the rain totally took over, we were determined to party hard! It was a huge success! The night filled my home, my belly and my heart. Shane and I often talk of how blessed we are that God not only gave us a shared passion for relationships, but the capacity to invest in them. Not all husbands would be excited to host such an event. Not all wives would have been up for it either. Not that that makes us great, but rather, just perfect for each other. I love that! I am also blown away at the people God has filled, and I mean, FILLED our life with. I am so passionate about others being blessed by the same people know. I just want everyone to know my friends, my church, my family, my God. They make life so rich. And because of them, I am I full:)

Waiting for Daddy

2011-05-14T21:52:00.001-04:00

Annalee

2011-05-14T21:37:00.003-04:00

Our Life

2011-04-28T10:07:00.010-04:00

Pictures tell such a story. I was playing with my new camera... squeal...and decided to shoot a couple of images of my morning. It is 7:30am. I am on the front porch finishing my coffee, Bible reading and morning chat with my husband. I hear the children begin to wake upstairs. Here is what I see...

Brand new day lilies

Water hose on the tramp from the kids water play yesterday...

Reece's whiffle ball in the grass, that really needs weeded/seeded. The clover has taken over! Good for the chickens, bad for the curb appeal. If we had a curb...

Baby lettuce...

Coke? Really? Nobody in family drinks Coke. Except this guy named Shane who buys them from the gas station when I am not looking. But he certainly would not leave it in my garden as evidence of his poor nutritional choices. Speaking of garden, I should really finish filling these boxes...

Color-by-number worksheet balled up in the landscaping. It just goes to show you what my children think of my schooling methods:)

Tire potato garden...hopefully today I will add another tire and fill with more dirt.

Sun dresses left on the line overnight...you know, 'cause the moon is efficient like that!

Blooming azaleas....

Weeds in my azaleas...

Shane's boots filled with water from the rain last night. Does this mean I can skip the dogs water bowl this morning?

Birthday present from last weekend. We forgot to take it to the party. We still haven't delivered.

Leftover laundry from last night... See the big tall pile? That is going to the winter closet until next year.

My unmade bed...I don't normally make my bed until I am dressed for the day. Yes, that would mean I am still in my pj's.

Welcome to my world.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T11:04:00.002-04:00

So, we ran out of time/energy to take a family picture, decorate eggs, or hide and find the easter treats I bought. I have no photos to share of my kiddos covered in chocolate, or how cute they looked in their peach/ brown/ blue coordinating Easter outfits. But, I can show you this!

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1845840517118&notif_t=video_tag

This is what we did all weekend. This is what we prayed for for weeks. This was part of a series of four services spread throughout the weekend in which hundreds of hands were raised by those who accepted Christ. This is what Easter is all about. And, my kids didn't suffer one bit. And, don't worry, we are dying the eggs today:)

It is Here!

2011-04-25T11:01:00.001-04:00

Reece is 2!

2011-04-20T09:10:00.004-04:00

Reece Christian Zadok "Zealous Christ-follower Warrior Priest." Although he has a long way to go, he well on his way to living up to his name. Reece turned 2 yesterday!

This little man is the baby of the bunch, the only brother and the quiet strength in our family. He is content to play with his cars, trucks, motorcycles, and baseballs for hours. But, don't come near his toys, or his sippee cup, he will pull them all close yell, "No!" and turn the other way. Although we are working on manners and kindness, who can blame the guy? He does have three older sisters who tend to just take what they want. He has to be on guard. See the warrior part coming out in him?:)

I made him a gluten-free cake for his birthday. It was a rare treat and he was a bit apprehensive at first. He has kind of gotten used to the fact that he doesn't eat what we do.

The thought that he was laid back and chilled was a bit on target, but most certainly overrated as I learned at 6 months, he was not only dairy intolerant, but gluten intolerant as well. All that bad-for-him food in his body was just making him lethargic! We stopped all dairy and wheat products and he has been a happy camper; energy to spare and a smile to go with it!

Reece loves to drive, race, push and make noises with anything that has wheels. He likes to play catch and will surprise you with his aim. He is a lefty, which makes his Daddy very happy. He wants to wear shoes the entire time he is awake, and would keep his jacket on all day if I let him. He reminds me of a teenage boy the way he walks around with his hands in his pockets, even if he has to squeeze them in to fit. Reece is the best sleeper I have ever had. He goes to sleep without a fit, wakes with a "Momma!" and takes a 2-3 hour nap right on schedule. He eats constantly and is obsessed with all kinds of granola bars. Although his phase of bananas and blueberries is over, he still loves all things healthy.

He is in no hurry to prove anything. Reece didn't walk until 16 months and he still doesn't say a lot. But, I know he is growing steadily and right on target. I am so excited to hear his mind and look forward to the year ahead. I am so very thankful to have the opportunity and great privilege of training, raising and loving this Man of God. Thank you Reece Man for everyday you bring joy to my heart!

*2 yr old photoshoot coming soon:)

Mornings

2011-04-11T09:22:00.003-04:00

My morning coffee-on-the-porch ritual has spread to my children. This morning I found hot chocolate cups left all over the place. It is a perfectly cloudy damp morning, but our windows have been left open for days now. So the emptied, inviting cups have remained in place, just because I think they are pretty and telling.

Sick.

2011-04-11T09:01:00.005-04:00

We have been sick.

We have been sleeping, among other unmentionable things, a lot.

We are all well now. Lovely.

Happy Birthday Mama Mia!!!

2011-02-24T13:56:00.004-05:00

I introduce to you, Mia. I met Mia back in college when she was somewhat of a celebrity on campus. She was part of The Sounds of Liberty which was the all star team as far as singing talent was concerned. We roomed across from each other for a total of three weeks. And, although I remember her, remember the celebrity thing..I doubt she remembers me. She will tell you to your face that she does. That is cause she is nice like that.

We met (again...) 6 years later, at Lifepoint Chruch where she serves on the worship team and her husband is on staff. I remember our first day at church she was singing the cover song, Life is a Highway. Mia was singing that song like it was the last song she was gonna sing. Her 9mth pregnant belly was hindering my recollection of who she was. BUT....then she smiled, and I remembered, Mia McNeil!!! I told elbowed Shane and whispered,"That is Mia, from Sounds, back when we were at LU." He didn't seem nearly as excited as I did. After the service I introduced myself and we have been friends ever since.

I love Mia because she is so full of life. She is passionate when she is happy, when she is sad, and when she is down right angry! She never lets up. Full of energy she will love you with all she's got and them some. She loves Jesus, her man, her babies and her family and friends. She is real, bold, confident and honest in a way that many people aren't. She has a smile that lights up every room she has ever entered and every stage she ever stepped on. Her singing voice is so clear and powerful, but her heart of worship makes it unbelievably anointed. I begin to cry just writing that statement. I cannot even think of words to describe her talent. In fact, I tried just now and had to give up. You would have to hear it for yourself. Have I mentioned that she is beautiful?She is cool, too. I mean like The Buckle cool. Her style looks like Anthropology, Ikea and The Buckle got into a fight and everyone came out a winner. She is a designer and a lover of children. She was a music teacher pre-children, but I just can't picture that. Mia is a leader, a party planner, a match maker and the biggest social butterfly I have ever met. We cannot have a good conversation in a public place. She gets distracted by everyone else she could be talking to. So we smile, hug say something cute about our outfits and save the important stuff for later. Cause when you are alone with Mia she is loaded with thought provoking, real life questions, thought, opinions and ideas. See, I told you she was full of life.

I thank God for the friends in my life. I am so thankful to see a little bit of Him in each one. I thank Him today for sending me a friend in Mia! Happy Birthday!

Inaugural Bonfire!

2011-02-19T07:15:00.003-05:00

We had our first bonfire of the year. With the temps in the 70's all day an evening under the stars was calling our name. I love the atmosphere of a bonfire. The kids are off in wonderland running back and forth across the yard, playing in the tree house, jumping on the tramp and just getting lost in the freedom they have. The men do all the roasting and fire stoking while discussing very manly things on their side of the fire. Inevitably the ladies end up clustered together dancing that fine line of staying warm and dodging the smoke. Time becomes irrelevant and we lose count of how many smores the kids have had. They keep coming back for more and we say yes, because it is fun that way. The crowd dissipates as the kiddos begging to melt. Shelby falls asleep in Shane's lap and Avery gets more hyper by the second. The circle of friends tightens and the men and women merge into one conversation. The moon is bright and the thoughts of an early morning cross my mind. But, I push them away for just one more marshmallow. I relish these evenings. There is something to be said for the freedom we all have just to enjoy.

*Please forgive the ridiculous poetic overkill in this post. I am feeling a bit sentimental this morning.

It's Coming....!!!

2011-02-18T13:35:00.002-05:00

Sun bathing...

Bike riding...

Blackbird invasion...

Just around the corner!!!!

Remember This?

2011-01-30T14:11:00.003-05:00

Well, it is finally done.

www.shulamitessecret.com

Shabbat Shalom!

2011-01-25T11:24:00.007-05:00

We finally started our Sabbath tradition. We have been intending to, talking about, and planning this for months, but it all came together this week. We will continue to have a Sabbath meal every Sat. from now on. We will also work hard to not work hard for the 24 hrs following the Sabbath meal.

I am so excited to see the provision and protection that follows as we sacrifice this time in honor of the Lord. Shane and I feel strongly that God put laws in place for our provision and protection. Although we are no longer under that law, because of Christ's fulfillment of the law, there are still reasons He instituted those laws in the first place.

In our Christian culture we still hold the other 9 commandments in high regard: Thou shall not steal, though shall not commit adultery, honor your father and mother. But somehow we seem to totally dismiss the command to rest on the Sabbath. We have always made it a priority to worship on the Sabbath, but rest...that is a different story. How could we? We have only two days a week where Shane is home before 9:30 pm. It is not like there is a lot of free time for us to get things done; important things. But, we believe He commanded a rest every 6 days. If He had to rest, shouldn't we? I am looking forward to the blessing that I know will come, I am just not sure how to identify it. I will let you know when I figure it out.

Making Honey Whole Wheat Challah Bread

Coconut rice with steamed flounder, broccoli and crushed cashews

Shane speaking a blessing over Annalee.

Shane blessing the wine/juice

Shelby praying the blessing over the wine/juice

Rest begins...

Square Foot Gardening

2011-01-20T16:07:00.005-05:00

We have begun a new adventure in gardening. My last two gardens have not been

raving successes, so.... I moving on to fail proof, or so we are hoping. Good thing is, my husband love projects and food, so this is a good one. I can't believe we are starting in Jan, but what can I say? This is the time to build. I have to admit, it is giving me a bit of spring fever.

Got the boots out...

Planks laid out ready to be assembled.

One box nearly finished, until the accident... That is another story:)

Shelby is just sayin' Hi~

Kids hanging out in the tree house. They helped lug boards around all morning, so the break was well deserved.

Sisters and Straws

2011-01-19T16:02:00.001-05:00

So fun to be sisters.

Failed Dreads

2011-01-18T16:23:00.005-05:00

Back in November, or maybe it was October, I decided to put dreads in my hair.

I had been wanting them for years, and finally decided it was time.

After many hours of research, I found a method called twist and rip. It is pretty self explanatory. I liked the corkscrew look and their lack of craziness.

Apparently, it is not a well known method, and there is reason for it...

They fell out. Well, the bottom 1/2 did, and i aided the rest. I loaded them with conditioner, laid under the water and combed them out. It actually worked quite well, with minimal damage. I lost the dreads, but gained the experience and it def killed the dread bug inside of me, for a while at least:) What can I say, I am always willing to try most anything.

Dinner Party

2010-12-22T09:48:00.003-05:00

I love Christmas time. I love to entertain. I love to entertain at Christmas time. This year we have been to 6 parties, 3 of which we hosted.

One was a 1yr old birthday party, designed by my fashionista friend, Mia. Complete with a handmade hanging branch banner and owl tree ornaments, this little girl's party was magazine worthy.

The next evening we hosted a party for a group of volunteers at our church. Even though the cookies outnumbered the 60+ guests by about 12 to 1 , we found good use for the leftovers and the night was a success!

Finally, this Sunday evening we hosted a small dinner party for a few of our pastors and their wives. Elegant simplicity was the theme and although the underdone /had to be cooked a little more pork loin, and the crazy textured chocolate cheesecake were nothing to write home about. I was more than pleased with the evening. I could drink up unhurried, laid-back, honest, un-pretentious, intimate conversation any day of the week. My cup runneth over.

Dinner Party Menu

Melted Brie topped with Caramel and Walnuts

Served with Toasted Orange Cranberry Bread

Virgin Cosmopolitans

Roasted Thyme and Garlic Stuffed Pork Loin

Served with Roasted Pears

Butternut Squash with Wilted Spinach and Dried Cranberries

Buttered and Herb Yeast Rolls

Hot Vanilla topped with Chocolate Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Chocolate Cheesecake topped with Strawberries

First Snow

2010-12-13T11:57:00.006-05:00

We woke up to this...

And this...

The kids went out first thing...

We ate leftover party cake for breakfast...

Avery didn't last long...

We made snow creams for snack...

Now I am off to cuddle up with a book, and a kid or two:)

Fredericksburg Christmas Parade

2010-12-13T11:35:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we ventured out to the Fredericksburg Christmas Parade. All bundled up, pb&j's, popcorn, fresh baked chocolate chip cookies and hot chocolate in hand we endured the freezing cold and ever got to see the first flurries of the season. Great attitudes all around made for a fabulous evening. We even ran into my uncle and my cousins, who actually are my children's age. So we snuggled up in blankets and watched in wonder (and a little astonishment at what they actually allowed into the family parade) and made great memories. Gush.

Remembering Summer

2010-11-29T20:38:00.003-05:00

Check It Out!

2010-11-29T17:48:00.004-05:00

My new FAVORITE site...cleaneatingmag.com! We came across this magazine thanks to one of Shane's clients at the gym. I perused the pages and decided I must have a subscription. Then I checked out the website and decided, no need for a subscription, it is all right there! Weekly meal plans, shopping lists, daily nutritional info (calories, carbs, prot, fat....) and recipes. It even offers seasonal meal plan ideas. I love the balance of budget friendly, simplistic meals that are made with whole foods, meat and many organic ingredients. It just works. So...do check it out:)

How can I resist?

2010-11-29T13:39:00.002-05:00

Halloween

2010-11-22T16:11:00.003-05:00

Peter Pan!!...and Tinkerbell,...and Tigerlilly,...and Wendy,...and the pirates:)

Yada, Yada, Yada...

2010-10-29T06:51:00.007-04:00

We are learning about the ancient Egyptians, Moses, the Exodus, and mummies. Lots of fun hands on learning this week! Above, you can see the girls making a timeline of the plagues.

I borrowed these "bricks" from a friend who got them off of Freecycle. We built pyramids, towers and forts. I even made the girls make an assembly line. Avery had to carry the bricks one-by-one to Shelby, who then passed them off to Annalee. They didn't like that idea. So they did it all together, which , of course , is way more fun.

My kids were entertained with these bricks everyday for about 2.5 weeks. They haven't touched them since. I put them in the back of my van two days ago and nobody has even noticed. I will be returning them to my friend soon.

...Reminds me that I really want to participate a toy swap. Everyone brings a bucket of toys their kiddos won't miss and we trade. Then we do it again in a month of so. Brilliant! I hosted a freezer meal swap recently. We each made 5 of the same freezer meal. Then we met for the trade. I brought a chicken and rice dish and left with: meatloaf and mashed potatoes, poppy seed chicken casserole, chicken stroganoff with penne pasta and Cincinnati Chili (made with cinnamon and a hint of chocolate:). We all loved it so much we decided to try it again in 6 weeks, this time bringing a box of toys with us, as well. I will let you know how it goes!

River House with the Brisseys

2010-10-25T12:19:00.005-04:00

Almost three years ago, I ran into an old friend of mine from high school, Angie. Back in the day we cheered on the same squad, under the tyranny of the crazy Ms. Tyson, shared common friends and even spent a homecoming group date together. After a happenstance meeting in a local convenience store, we reconnected in a way I could not have imagined. As the story turns out she married another friend from high school, Chad. His little sister and I spent many-a-night together getting in all sorts of trouble:) So Chad and Angie, Shane and I our combined children have become fast friends at an all new level. We share a passion for serving at our church, we share birthdays, dinners...dinner bills (this due to an embarrassing moment in which we totally forgot any sort of viable payment for the dinner to which we had invited them:) hometown fall festival experiences, Bible studies, church small groups, holidays and weekend river trips. Our next planned trip out to their river house is so the guys can appear in court to testify against this crazy old guy who pulled a gun and shot at them for wake boarding in "his" cove on the PUBLIC river. That should be a fun time! I am so looking forward to the road we will walk as we continue to make memories. What an unexpected blessing God has given us.

This little guy, Cash, has the brightest blue eyes I have ever seen. I swear I had to de-saturate the picture so it didn't look fake.

My own Reece-man getting dirty.

Annalee and Avery testing the water, again.

Saylor is only 4 mths younger than Avery and the two of them are so very independent, and opinionated it is almost scary.

And of course, I couldn't resist those dimples. He is more than my little heart can handle!

Cousins

2010-10-08T07:56:00.003-04:00

I posted recently that I was in FL for my Grandfather's funeral. It was a special time. I am sad to say that I don't get to see my FL family as often as I should, or want to. But, I will say, we are a uniquely loyal family. Everyone comes out of the woodwork for funerals. Sadly, we have had several over the past few years. I am thankful though, even when we gather for sad events, we take full advantage of the opportunity to enjoy each other while we are together. Between the tears there are many, many smiles and uninhibited laughs.

There are 11 of us grandchildren. We are surprisingly close for living so far apart and not really growing up together. Well, everyone grew up together, except my immediate family. But, despite the distance, we have spent several Christmas mornings together shooting-it-out during our annual Nerf BB gun wars, shared meals at our Baba and Dada's home and watched many movies piled onto their bed.

Now that we are adults we appreciate the family ties so much more. There is something so very special about family. I love my cousins in a way I can't really describe. I love that I knew them before their spouses and girlfriends, before they had babies and before they stopped placing a measuring mark on Baba and Dada's door frame every time the visited. These people are a part of me. I love family.

DC Fest

2010-10-04T21:19:00.008-04:00

We were invited by some friends to attend the DC Fest.Whoo-hoo -- I was really just excited to hang out with the friends! They had backstage passes. That really meant we got pushed through a line, no pictures allowed, with only enough time to give them your name, not that they remembered, and maybe get a signature. Seriously, the best part of the whole backstage thing was the free chic-fil-a meal. The headliners, Mercy Me, weren't even there. Not that I really cared. I didn't even know half of those people, and I have no desire to shake their hand, give them my name, or get a signature, but I kind of felt bad for the people who did care. I think those things cost a lot of money.

At least the whole experience only got better from there. We had second row seats. So we were up close and personal to all that crazy energy. My producer mind was rolling. Our pastor was with us. He and I were collaborating on set design and lighting ideas all night!

The line-up consisted of some people I have never heard of before. But, I did know Building 429. It is a good thing they were not on stage too long because I was totally crushing on the lead singer:)

Francesca Battistelli was looking as if she would give birth any minute. But she belted it like she had all the lung space in the world. Her interaction with her drummer/husband was too cute.

Jeremy Camp is as powerful in his worship as he appears to be in his arms. I told Shane he could grow a beard, too if he had biceps like that. I mean, his are pretty close... but, well, it is a good thing he wasn't the headliner either.

Amy Grant was in there somewhere. I think she was trying to prove a point in all of her forgiveness/love songs. All I have to say about that is her about-to-give-birth-any-day-now back-up singer and percussionist was ah-maz-ing!

Mercy Me, wrapped it up with a fabulous set. There was no crush developed there. But I did take about a thousand pics of one of the guitar players because he was such a cool rocker. I think he thought I was obsessed. But, no. I just really liked the lighting. Their songs always reach straight to my soul. I could have sang for hours. It was a wonderful night, and I will be forever grateful for these little glimpses of Heaven.

Baptism

2010-10-03T21:06:00.003-04:00

Annalee was sooooooo excited to be baptised today. After many long talks about the meaning/importance of baptism, and lots of prayer, she finally assured us she new exactly why she was wanting to do it. "Because I want everyone to know I love Jesus." Well, that is good enough for me! We are excited to walk this journey with her. Shane not only hand delivered Annalee during her birth 6 years ago, but also had the honor and privilege of baptizing her as she declared to the world the she is a follower of Jesus Christ.

Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." "How can a man be born when he is old?" Nicodemus asked. "Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!" Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit.

John 3:3-5

And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name. Acts 22:16

Verse for the Homeschool Week

2010-10-02T13:07:00.002-04:00

Interesting Scripture to ponder considering our day and time.

Girls Night Out

2010-10-01T16:46:00.006-04:00

My dear friend Tammie had a birthday. I have been dying to check out this new restaurant, Coco Sala, in D.C. So, we all got dressed up and hit the town, sans husbands and children. We had a blast and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these girls! I wish more could have joined us, but we were limited on space. We will have to do it again in rounds:) The restaurant was uber chic. Chocolate adorned everything from the mojitos to the gourmet mac & cheese tappas. The private, velvet covered booths and silk drapes made for a dramatic set as we talked the night away. It is quite refreshing to remember what it feels like to get pretty, have adult conversation, and eat a hot meal...without having to cut up your neighbors food.

Goodbye Summer

2010-10-01T14:04:00.003-04:00

Our last rip to Carl's this Summer. Don't worry, they don't close until Thanksgiving. But, we won't be going in pool attire again this year:)

I know:)

2010-09-29T20:48:00.005-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-29T17:39:00.002-04:00

Sisters

2010-09-28T12:50:00.002-04:00

So, Annalee and Shelby have had almost 5 years together. They have both been talking and playing with each other for the past 3 years. Avery has been around for those 3 years, but only able to communicate and play with them for about 1. I fear Avery will never be able to "break in" the relationship A and S have. They exclude her often even now. Of course, she is still less mature then the older ones, but she will always be that way. I take as many opportunities as I can to remove Annalee so that Avery and Shelby can have time to develop their relationship. They are just as close in age as Shelby and Annalee. It also doesn't help that Shelby and Avery clash often due to the strong wills present on both sides. Annalee is such a peacemaker and Shelby is usually willing to follow her big sister, but the younger two fight a lot. All you siblings out there...anyone have any advice?

Homeschooling

2010-09-23T23:40:00.007-04:00

"I could never do that!"... I hear that all the time. I always say, "It is one of those things you just do." Like people who have twins. They just do it. Another option is not even considered. I have known I would homeschool my children since before I met my husband. I did a bunch of research on it in college and decided then, it would be my path. My reasons for schooling at home have changed over the years, but I have never considered not keeping my kids at home. I have only just begun this journey, and I cannot begin to tell you the joy it brings on a daily basis. It is nothing less than a gift. Like running for a race; enduring the pain and exhaustion of the actual event, but in the end, the amazing feeling of accomplishment prevails. There are moments when I want to lock myself in a closet and wait for the day to end. There are times when I have hid in the bathroom for longer than necessary. Many days I find myself with a list longer than the page I am writing on. I have had to write up the sides just to fit it all in. But it is worth it. I love, love, love my life, and all the stickers, questions, workbooks, library trips, park days, crayons, lesson plans, memory verses, math drills, phonics dictation, nature walks, flashcards, and overwhelming moments that fill it.

Soooo...

2010-09-02T09:22:00.003-04:00

I know, it has been too long. I am really bad at this these days. I have so much going on, blogging just gets put lower and lower on the list. I am excited to get back on a good schedule this Fall and make sure to pour out my heart, and my camera, on a more regular basis for the world to see.

Here is a quick list of what has been going on around here:

*I am in FL for my Dada's funeral. Check out this great post for the details

http://www.sincerelylizphoto.com/blog/2010/08/my-dada-personal/

*I have been swamped in homeschooling curriculum decisions, planning, moments of being overwhelmed, and tons of excitement for the upcoming school year. I will be schooling all three girls. More on that in the future...

*Lots of plans in the making for a little CSA out at our little farm...eggs, chicken meat, bread, fresh milk....yummm:)

*I was training for a 1/2 marathon to be run this Sunday, but an unexpected FL trip has caused me to change my mind. I will continue training and run a full marathon in November in Richmond.

*Shane and I have been having lots of talks about our vision, passion and mission for our lives. We have always done this (the mission statement in our profile was written our first week of marriage) and will continue to do so. Our path is becoming so clear and the ride is very exciting.

*Speaking of riding, our church is riding a wave that is nothing but supernatural. I am honored to be part of the swell. I get to produce (run the production team) on Sunday mornings making decisions about lighting, set-up, and timing. I really know nothing about anything, that is what the team is for, I just get to be bossy and let them be amazing. They really embody what it means to be both authentic and excellent in all the do. I love, love, love these people....

*My photography has been coming along and the new website will be up VERY soon.

*So there you have it...lots of life going on around here. And the best thing of all...FALL IS COMING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was Spring at our House

2010-07-17T10:32:00.001-04:00

Easter 2010

2010-07-07T10:05:00.004-04:00

Did I ever tell you about our fabulous Easter Egg Hunt? Oh, no...I was "Blog Fasting." That has become about as popular as a "Dating Fast" was at the Christian college I attended. I have participated in both:) Anyway.... The Easter Egg hunt was super fun and I plan to try it again next year. We had a great turnout, not too many, just right. The weather was perfect and the activities, well I will let the pics speak for themselves. If you missed it this year, come out next time!!

The cutest day old chicks that did actually survive the hands of numerous three year olds, but later suffered their demise in a single night no thanks to some ratty old racoons:(

Eli digs for icing. Check out his super cool mo-hawk.

Shleby eating her decorations

Can a cookie have too many sprinkles?

I think not.

And so began the era of Addy wearing accessories that are bigger than her head:)

Ready, Set, Go!

"Only 17 Each!"

"Share with the little kids!"

Love This Girl

2010-07-01T14:23:00.004-04:00

Avery says things like "mudda" for "mother", or "yiito" for "little." Her northern accent sure does make those silly moments make up for any and all strong willed defiance. Not that we ignore that stuff... just forget it easily:)

What is Going on Here?

2010-06-30T21:06:00.003-04:00

Reece Turned One

2010-06-23T21:06:00.008-04:00

Love, love, love this little man. Who knew life could be so easy with four? From the double dimples, to the deep green eyes, the spikey mo-hawk and the 8 perfectly lined up teeth, this kid has got it all. He could quite possibly be the best looking baby boy around. (Granted, there aren't any other baby boys around these here parts...but still.) Reece has a personality I have never seen before in our little family. He is the most chilled child, ever! He is content to sit in his highchair for hours at a time. He wakes up in the morning and plays in his crib until I get him, he is happy sitting in a walker outside watching Shane work for 2-3 hours at a time. Lest you get the wrong idea, he is also full of fun, laughs, spunk, and I am sure he has an opinion on something, he just doesn't care to share...yet. Which works around here because there are a lot of opinions trying to be heard. He fits in so well and is loved by LOTS of people. I can't wait to watch him grow and hear his words and thoughts. Thank you God for creating such a perfect little boy.

p.s. ummm...yeah, I can't figure out why this is all underlined and I can't seem to fix it right now, so just pretend it is all VERY important.

Back Again

2010-06-22T14:09:00.002-04:00

Randomly disappearing isn't very nice...I know, but sometimes it is necessary. I step back from blogging every so often when I notice it is taking precedent over other areas of my life. When I blog instead of doing a home school lesson with Annalee, or stay up an hour past my self-imposed bed-time and sacrifice sleep to type away, when I live life moments through the eyes of a potential post, or when I check my most recent post for comments because I care too much what others think about my thoughts... that is when I stop. So, here I am... and, Here We Go...again...

Blueberries

2010-03-19T14:27:00.004-04:00

So I left Reece in his high chair while I went to get my shoes on. I came back and found him so proud to be ON TOP OF THE TABLE!

Of course I wanted to see how he did it. So I put him back in his seat. He was only interested in the rest of his cheerios.

So I enticed him with my phone, which he ignored. But, then I added blueberries.

Oh yeah!

So excited...

to get...

blueberries!

"Can I Mommy? Really!"

Heaven

in a ball.

Yummm!

New lighting

2010-03-17T15:57:00.003-04:00

I got a new lighting set up and backdrop kit for some photography I have been doing. The kids posed as little models for me. Cuties.

Sweet Potatoes Revisited

2010-03-16T20:31:00.003-04:00

I really like sweet potatoes. They are good for you and taste great. Of course they are inexpensive and great tummy fillers....I use them a lot. Here is a little meal Shane, Reece and I eat. The girls won't eat it yet, but soon, they will love it, too.

1.Prick a sweet potato with a fork several times all over. Wrap in a damp towel and microwave for 5 minutes.

2.Saute diced mango, red pepper

3.Warm pre-made black beans, or you can use a can. I cook mine in he crock pot the day before.

4. Cut open cooked sweet potato, top with beans and saute mix, eat up!

Reece Christian

2010-03-15T20:53:00.002-04:00

First Trip to Carl's

2010-03-08T20:42:00.003-05:00

We made our first trip to Carl's this year. The temps hit 60 today and after a powerful day at church, a picnic lunch of leftover pizza, a family hike in the woods and a 3 hour nap, we heard Carl's yelling our name. So we texted a few friends to see if anyone want to join us. We met up with the Martin's and indulged in a pre-dinner treat. The kids played hide and seek and we watched, and ate, and watched, and ate. It was fun to see Annalee have a little running competition. Noah, who is a year younger than her is not only quick, but agile. He gave the girls a run for their money. I am not sure what Annalee thought of this. She usually always wins. She tells me this often:) We ended up back at the Martin's house for pizza and a little more play time. The girls were in love with their all boy basement, trains and cars galore. Not to mention lots of fun on the bounce house! It was a great night and an end to a great weekend.

Project Simplify

2010-03-08T10:05:00.005-05:00

I have been simplifying my whole life. I love to purge, clean, and organize. I have so many color coded excel spreadsheets on my computer it is embarrassing. I rarely print them out, but it makes me feel good to know they are there and I do use them in my head if that makes sense. It makes me feel in control, in a good way. I hate clutter and excess. My parents recount a story of me when I was four. They went to a furniture store and set me in the little playroom the store had provided. When they were done shopping they came back to find that I had cleaned up the whole playroom. I also remember going to friends' houses and spending my entire allotted "three hours" cleaning their room so that I could play. Just when I was done cleaning and organizing, I would get the call saying it was time to go home. It happened often enough for me to remember:) My wonderful husband knows I can't relax until all is in order and he is so helpful in making that happen. That said, I am on a simplifying rampage this month. I mentioned some ideas in the last post. I will be posting in detail about each project. Here is my Spring meal plan. We will use this for 12 weeks and then switch in June to a summer meal plan. This will help me know what to buy at the store and help not to buy extras. Not in the plan, ya know. I am excited to see it work.

Monday

B- Steel cut oatmeal

L- Chicken curry w/ veggies and rice

D- Pb&j

Tuesday

B- Muffins/fruit

L- Black bean, red pepper & mango sweet potatoes

D- Quesadillas & salsa

Wednesday

B- Cereal

L- Baked chicken sticks and baked fries

D- Nachos

Thursday

B- Eggs/toast

L- Summer veggie soup/ cheddar biscuits

D- Southwestern omelets/chips

Friday

B- Smoothies/toast

L- Shredded chicken flautas

D- Mac & cheese

Saturday

B-Pancakes

L- Salmon/ sweet potatoes / asparagus

D- Whole wheat pizza

Sunday

B- Fresh baked cinnamon raisin bread

L- Egg Sandwiches / chips & salsa

D- Leftovers

From The Sneaky Chef

*From www.themealplanner.blogspot.com

Slowing Down...

2010-03-06T15:35:00.002-05:00

I find myself rushing through everything. I am a very strong Choleric and I strive for efficiency and practicality in everything I do. This makes me rush, rush , rush. I wonder why I feel the need to always tell the kids, "Eat, stop talking/playing, just eat." Why do I clean the kitchen like I am running out of time? Where am I trying to go? What is the point in all this hurriedness?

I love to hang my laundry because there is something so peaceful and slow about it. I leave the noise of the day for a few moments. If there are noises they are natural. No machines running, no movie sounds, no radio, no echos within the walls of our home... just wind, kids playing, chickens clucking, puppies running, sheets flapping. I am reminded to go slow when I am out there. The sun warms my hands and my back while the wind cools my face. So poetic, I know. But really, it is all very true. I have written about this before, but I am just so thankful for the chance to slow down.

I am working on slowing down our lives.

We have been home a lot more than usual.

I am reorganizing my workout routine so I only go 3 days a week for less time. I try to run errands only one day per week.

I recently put out 4 bins in the laundry room, one for each child. I swore off folding and instead I toss their clothes in, saving me bunches of time.

I also have been slowly weeding out all pants except jeans so I don't have to "match" their outfits together. In the summer they will wear only dresses so I don't have to keep track of tops and bottoms. They like dresses anyway.

Simple ways to cut down on the processes we go through everyday. That is the plan.

I went through my wardrobe and put together 5-7 outfits for each occasion: home wear, workout wear and going out wear. I wrote down what I had, what I needed and then got rid of everything else. It was liberating. Why do I need 9 tops that I only wear on dates, and we only go on dates maybe twice a month? I really like how it has translated to my shopping budget. I know that I am looking for one more skirt outfit and two tank tops. So those super on sale shorts just aren't part of the plan. I just pass them by.

I am also working on a simplified menu. I have tried this several times, but I really want to make it work this time around. I would like to have a 7 day meal plan for each season. You know, Wednesday is spaghetti night. That would make it very simple to shop for groceries and I wouldn't be tempted to buy extras. Even when I use a list, which I always do, I still get distracted by the goodies on sale.

This is another reason I want dreads in my hair. I would like to only have to buy shampoo and nothing else. I like the idea of not having to "do" my hair everyday.

So, this is where I start. I love it. I really do.

It is coming...

2010-03-06T14:24:00.004-05:00

I can see it in the pictures of life. The ladybug invasion...

Avery bossing around the animals...

chickens free ranging...

the shedding of outerware...

puppies playing in the sun...

fruit salad calling my name...

outdoor play...

Spring, it is just around the corner!

Random Report

2010-03-05T10:17:00.007-05:00

We having been having lots of fun around here. The sun has been shining, so lots of time outside makes for happy kids, happy mommy and happy puppies!

My dryer broke so I have been relishing the forced clothes line drying method, which I love anyway. It is just easier not to cheat this way.

The puppies have been lots of fun and I will continue to rave about my decision to get two. It is so much easier as they keep each other company and play a lot together, making them less of a stress on my furniture and household.

Avery is developing quiet the personality. She is silly and spunky with a strong will. Very expressive and smart, she has a quick wit and will have you both steaming from anger and laughing in an instant. I was trying to get her to take a pair of shoes up to her room. She replyed, "I can't." I asked, "Why?" She grabbed her lower lip with her fingers and said, " I'm hoeding my ips." I had to walk away.

We have been getting ready for the ball. That is so much fun! I will post pictures next week.

I found the best accessory shop in the world this week, Charming Charlies. I was in heaven. It is huge, organized by color, brilliant, and very reasonably priced. I was their twice in two days. Oh yeah!

Shane and I are in a fun time of marriage. You know how those times just get good all of a sudden. They weren't bad by any means, but they are just extra "good" right now.

I have been having a lot of fun with my little, "secret" which I will reveal soon, I promise. Let's see, what else...

Annalee is this close to reading and learning to love it. She carries her journal around everywhere writing down things she sees. She has also learned the art of tracing.

Shelby is becoming quieter and less crazy, I think Avery has taken over that department. Shelby adores her big sister and pretty much does everything with her. She upgraded to a booster seat which allows her to come along on "quick errand" trips. Those are ones where I don't have time to be putting kiddos in and out of car seats.

I went back to cloth diapers and I forgot how much fun that was, as far as diapering goes.

I am seriously thinking about getting dreads. I have been wanting them for a long time. I am normally pretty impulsive, so I am trying to be patient with my decision.

We are preparing for an Easter Egg hunt on the 3rd out at our place. If you didn't get the FB invite and would like to come, let me know.

Reece is thinking about mobility on his feet, although no steps have been taken. He does walk all around the living room while holding onto the furniture.

I have been in serious purge mode and got rid of my kitchen table, who needs two tables? I also purged my closet three times. I went through the kids clothes and have three big boxes to give away. If you want to look through them let me know! They are going to the Goodwill soon.

Avery cut her hair, lots of it. I tried to fix it, but there is really not much you can do in a situation like that.

Shane is having great success at the gym with his youth athletes. He is also the Biggest Loser trainer this year and really helping his team reach their goals. So proud of him!

I have been cleaning up lots of random messes. Like oatmeal and sugar, pee on the bathroom floor, puppy poop, crayons on the wall, you know, mommy messes. The ones reserved just for us.

I am getting giddy with thoughts of Spring. Gardens, flowers, hanging clothes, breakfast on the front porch, running outside, races, bike rides, parties and plans, lots of plans! I love the seasons:)

I think that is about it. Really random I know, but I had to get it all out there. Remember I am trying to lesson my word burden on Shane:) Have a great weekend.

Sugar & Spice & Everything Nice...

2010-02-24T18:53:00.003-05:00

I love playdates. They act as a sort of sanity keeper. Not that any playdate can have very much sanity in it when there are 5-10 preschoolers running around. But at least I know I am not crazy when we are all in it together. Thank the Lord for friends, and babies, and kids, and loud crazy days, chicken nuggets and mac and cheese, and chicken salad, and hand-me-downs, and last minute sitters, and text messaging, and powerful prayer, and Bible studies, and story swapping, and coffee, and supportive husbands, and laughter, because that what Big girls are made of.

Just wondering...

2010-02-22T20:52:00.003-05:00

Who reads this blog? I thought there were like maybe 5 or 6 people. But I have been noticing comments from people I had no idea who they were. Now, I get to read their blogs. Fun. So, you know, just wondering, if well, you know, ummm, would you, if you don't mind, i mean, if it is ok, could you tell me who you are, if that is cool with you, you know? Just 'cause I want to know. Maybe there are like 10 of you. That would be cool.

Oven

2010-02-22T20:34:00.004-05:00

This is me in the oven. Well, me, reflected in the oven. That would be dumb. Really. I sit at the counter while working on the computer often. My children, in the background, are always in the background. My children follow me everywhere I go. I noticed that I do the same thing to Shane. If he goes to the office, I do too. If he goes to the shower, well, I all of a suden have the urge to brush my teeth or something bathroom related. I think it is interesting our need for comany. I also treasure my alone time, but I have enough of that by the time he gets home. When it snowed for many days in a row, Shane was home for about three days straight. We didn't go anywhere, just stayed in. On the third day we sat down at the breakfast table and he asked me if there was something wrong. I said, "No. Why?" He replied, "Because you aren't talking." I laughed and realized this poor man knows nothing of the quiet Jackie. I am quiet most of the day. I talk to no one about my deep thoughts, frustrations or excitement. I share things with my kids that would pertain to them. I teach them things. I share loving words, but you know...a 2 year old can only handle so much. So, Shane get it all when he comes home. The Jackie he knows talks nearly non-stop. He of course has known this for years. I just realized this. Wow, and he still loves me. I can only imagine how many nights I have bombarded him when he was so very tired, or frustrated, or just over hearing. He hears all day. He works in a gym where music is played loudly the entire time. He talks with clients for hours and hours. He listens to other people talking around him, for hours. He hears the clanging of metal weights and the spinning of treadmills. He hears intercome pages and laughter from the pools. He hears the base from the groupx room and the tempo from the cycle room. When he does have down time he is in a consult room on the phone with clients. Maybe I should start talking to my self during the day to give him a break. Do you think writing your words, as in writing this blog entry, counts for all the words we "have" each day?

Puppies

2010-02-22T16:15:00.003-05:00

We have been waiting and looking...and here they are, our 6-week old golden girls. We decided to go with one dark and one light, although it was a tough decision. They are sisters, which make the other sisters happy. They are fought over, held non-stop, picked-up, dropped, slept with and hand fed, but most of all they are loved. Very much.

Intentional

2010-02-20T07:39:00.004-05:00

I stay home with my kids all day. One might think they get my attention all day. But, somehow, there seems to be days where I go to bed at night and I am not sure if I even stopped to hug Annalee, or did I ever hold Avery like she had asked? Did I read to anyone? Did I crouch down and smile at Shelby? Or did I clean up messes, direct chores, provide food, change diapers and send them outside to play? None of those things are bad. In fact they are necessary, but those, without the others, is well, wrong. I know that. I know it deep in my heart. When I have a busy day where I forgot to stop and enjoy my children, I miss them when I lay my head down.

How is it that this happens? It is so easy to tell Avery, "Hold on baby, when Mommy is done with this I will hold you." She is ok waiting for a second, then we both get distracted and the moment is lost. I remember Shleby always wanted to be held. I remember thinking... I need to remember that she is extra affectionate and when she is a few years older she won't ask so much, but I need to remember to do it anyway. Because even though she doesn't ask, she still needs it. It is who she is. It is how she was made. That will never change. She may learn to deal with it in other ways, but at what cost, and why can't I stop and hold her? The dishes can wait. Who cares if I have sticky hands from baking. The bread will go in the oven when I need it to. The moment with Shelby is lost forever. Sure there will be more, but really, why do I stay home? Why do I keep them home? I never regret it when I do stop. We are all happier when I stop. Why is it so hard? I am a task oriented person to begin with. I often plow right through people to get a job done. I am really great at it. Sad, but true. I am working on it.

I also think about what I am imparting to my children in their faith. I love the conversation where there are many questions. Most of which I can't answer. I love to hear their thoughts and heart for God. Their faith is so simple, so uncluttered, so raw. I lead by example. We all do. What does my example look like? Am I making people the priority, or the task? Am I pointing to the Lord in all things? Am I being grateful? Am I talking with kindness? Do I have joy? Joy, peace, love...these are contagious. Am I living this way? Are my children learning about what a godly strong, peaceful woman of God looks like? Who am I in their eyes. Because, you see, they see the real me.

So to be intentional is hard. It take work, sacrifice and forethought. It requires time, flexibility and energy. It is something that doesn't come naturally. If it did we wouldn't have to be intentional about it, right. Right. So today I will smile, hold, hug, read, sing, thank, kiss and play with the greatest of intention. All with the grace of God leading my heart as I follow His example.

Ladybugs

2010-02-19T14:07:00.003-05:00

They are everywhere. Last fall they made a fast invasion, somewhat like a plague. There were thousands and thousands outside our home. I am not sure why they like the house, but they would crawl/fly everywhere. Then they were inside, all over the windows. Hundreds of ladybugs would be crawling along my sills and door frames. The garage ceiling was COVERED! I kind of thought it was gonna be short lived, like two weeks or so. But everytime the temperature rises above 40 I see them start lining my windowsills. They aren't really bothersome. They make noises when their hard wings land on things, but other than that they stay near the windows. When they die they land on my floors. Reece likes to eat them. I just wish they would go away. We are going on 6 months of the ladybug invasion. Anyone know why, or maybe just some advice on how to get rid of them?

Nannie Sews

2010-02-16T08:33:00.003-05:00

Nannie sews a lot. And. She. Is. Good. I purge the girl's dress-ups often, but I can't get rid of Nannie's. They are beautiful. And there are always three of them. Three pilgrims, three Indians, three pj dresses, three christmas dresses, three robes, and of course three for all the American girl dolls, as well. Nannie is opening her own sewing business online. I will keep you "posted" (I crack myself up:) so you can have beautiful dress-ups, too!

Why?

2010-02-11T20:11:00.003-05:00

Goodbye to the snow. I just wrote a really long post about how I heard everyone complaining today about this snow, and how their kids were driving them crazy. Then I erased it, on purpose. I wonder why they feel that way. This has been something I have been thinking about all day.

Friday Meals

2010-02-11T15:58:00.005-05:00

Breakfast - Strawberry Smoothie, Ezekiel Toast

I make this smoothie with frozen strawberries, coconut milk, and a squirt of liquid stevia. Just to clear things up a bit, I do not use the coconut milk that comes in a can in the international isle. It is a half gallon container from the refrigerated section. It is not thick at all. It is available in original, unsweetened and vanilla. Ezekiel Toast is a loaf you find in the natural foods frozen section. The recipe is found in Ezekiel, hence the name. It says something about mixing 9 grains for the perfect bread. It is amazing because it actually forms a complete protein. Not sure why that is great, but is makes Shane say, "hmmm..." in a good tone, so I assume that means it is good for you. It is also made with spouted grains. Again, I am not sure why this is good for you, but every book I have ever read about healthy eating says you should eat sprouted grains, so here we go... I smear the toast with coconut oil and blackberry jam, remember the one from the farm wedding? Yeap, yummm.

Lunch – Bob Evans

My mom and sister called to see if we wanted to hang out. We were treated us to Bob Evans. The kids had pancakes and bacon w/ fruit, I had an omlet and pancakes, and Shane had a BBQ sandwhich and fries. See, this is where that "reality" portion comes in:)

Dinner - Egg Burritos and Chips

Made with eggs, cheese and salsa on whole wheat tortillas. Served with corn chips and salsa.

Self Portrait

2010-02-11T12:59:00.002-05:00

How come I never see pictures of the mama's? Probably because we are the ones with the camera in our hands. Or maybe we are the ones who don't want to show our ~~bodies~~, faces to the wide world of bloggers. OK, so here is a little SP for you, or me. However you want to look at it. I took a picture. Truth be told I think it was about 10 frames. Some aimed wrong, some bad angles, some bad faces, but here is the keeper. Then of course, I have to edit it just a little in photoshop. But, you know I appease my conscience because I only used like 47% powder room, not 90%. That makes me feel like I am being real, or at least 53% real. So here is my just-woke-up-best-picture-of-10-only-slightly-edited-self-portrait. For Real.

p.s. My children were banging on the door asking me why I was in the guest bathroom the entire time. So I had to lock it because they kept getting in my frames. That didn't count at part of the 10. So maybe there were like 17, or something like that.

PE

2010-02-10T13:44:00.004-05:00

I remember PE was a joke. We got 3 points deducted if we didn't "dress out." We played kickball, softball and other games I don't really remember. I do remember a lot of standing around waiting in lines. I also remember thinking, if we have 45 minutes of exercise a day why isn't everyone fit? Who know what those hours were used on. Maybe PE programs are better these days. I hope so. It would be fun to do things like aerobics, or zumba. How about yoga or weightlifting? How about flipping tires? That is what Shane does with the girls.

Shane is home most days from about 11:30 - 3:30. This is a great time to spend with the kids. Avery and Reece nap the last 2 hours, so it is a good time for him to spend with Annalee and Shelby. He had everyone out there the other day flipping tires, sprinting across the yard and pulling each other with trailer ties. It was a beautiful day outside. I sure am glad the kids get to play with their Daddy outside, in the sun, instead of in a gym with fluorescent lights. I must say though, thanks to all the teachers who do take the gym opportunity and put it to good use. Some of those kids might never get to play like that any other time in the day. I do remember playing flag football outside, in the sun and really liking it:)

Camera Tag

2010-02-09T13:46:00.004-05:00

We play tag. With the camera. They run, I click. It is fun. Until someone gets hurt.

Thursday Meals

2010-02-09T13:22:00.003-05:00

Breakfast - Oatmeal

Lunch - Nachos

I use yellow corn chips, cheddar cheese, salsa and avocados, all organic. My kids love this meal and I use it often when I need them to get a good fill of veggies. Sometimes I will add black beans or ground venison, but not tonight:)

Dinner - No Harm Chicken Parm, The Sneaky Chef

I love this cook book. Can I say that about a book? It is so practical and it works. My kids were great eaters as babies, eating all kinds of veggies, but now they can vomit on command. I know this for a fact. So, I don't push the "eat it all, or else, rule." We do make sure they taste all new things and sometimes we make them take several bites, but if they look like they are gonna lose it, we stop. I mean, talk about dumb. Who has to clean that up? Oh, yeah, that would be me. So, this book has all kinds of veggie purees snuck into regular kid loved meals, like chicken parm. I am not giving you the recipes because there are a lot related with this one meal. Each puree is it's own recipe, but you can go get the book, or check it out from your library. This meal had spinach, broccoli, almonds, wheat germ, whole wheat bread crumbs, and many other nutritious goodies. The kids ate it up and I only wished I had made more.

Let it snow...

2010-02-09T13:01:00.004-05:00

We are loving the snow, all of it. There is a lot. We have had many, many hours of snowfall, and we are expecting another 11 inches tonight. It is beautiful. I think my favorite part of snowfall is the sound, or lack there of. I love to go outside and listen. If you listen very closely you may be able to hear the snowflakes landing on the snow, but other than that there is nothing. No animal noises, no highway sounds, no kids playing, just silence. I think so is so amazing how everything halts in the snow. We all stay in, sit peacefully, and enjoy just being. I don't feel a sense of urgency to clean, or rush off to the gym. I get to be off the clock and take it all in. I also enjoy the anticipation. Everyone prepares with store runs, laying ice, filling up and getting warm. Everywhere you go people seem to have a look of anticipation. Excitement to share.It is so bonding. People smile more, with looks of agreement. We are all in this together, have fun!

Wednesday Meals

2010-02-08T13:33:00.005-05:00

I have found that taking pictures of all my meals is super impractical. I usually am hurrying to get the meal on the table for the ravaging children and get halfway through the meal before I remember that I have not taken a picture. So, only one picture a day from now on. I think I can remember to do one out of three. We shall see. I also apologize for the late posts, but we were without power all weekend due to the amazing snowstorm. I was going to catch up on all things computer, but ditched that idea to snuggle up on the couch with the family by the fire. That was fun, for one night. Then we were off to my mom's the next day. One can only dream of being praireish for a little while before the reality sets in and you realize you smell a little from not showering. (That is because we had no running water:). I didn't really smell, I don't think, but I did want to bake cookies for the Super Bowl party we were attending and I needed a working oven. So here we are, back at last weeks Wednesday meals.

Breakfast - Cheerios, banana, and milk. I am currently weaning my kids off of cows milk(from a drinking glass that is...) and onto coconut milk, but they don't really like it. So, I mix it 1/2 and 1/2. Soon enough they will love it like me:)

Lunch - PB sandwhich and apples I used Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter, all natural from Peanut Butter and Co., and wheat bread, the one I love from Wegman's

Dinner - Cheese and salsa quesadillas - how do you spell that? Made with organic salsa from Wegman's and whole wheat tortillas

Static?

2010-02-04T15:09:00.004-05:00

Um, no. That would just be the way Shelby's hair always looks. I brush it often, at least twice a day, sometimes four or five times. It is super fine and she plays rough. There is this one spot , well, maybe like the entire back of her head as you can see, that always gets tangled and sticks up. I have tried growing it long, cutting it short, putting product in it. It just seems to like to be this way. So my new plan is to grow it very long and keep it in pigtail braids, like on The Little House on the Prairie. That would be fun.

Tuesday Meals

2010-02-03T15:45:00.004-05:00

Breakfast - Oatmeal We have oatmeal almost four times a week in the winter. I love hot food, especially cereal. I have a new love for steel cut oats, and so does Shane. I get it in the organic bulk foods section at Wegmans, very inexpensive. The texture is a little chewy and very hearty. I add turbinado, vanilla, cinnamon and salt, yummm. Lunch - Burgers and Chips Shane gets venison from a friend when he helps him butcher it and we use it in place of all beef. It is lean, organic and FREE! We cook the burger on the stove in a little coconut oil and skip the bun. The adults to it with a little cheese, avocado and salsa. The kids usually skip the avocado and get a little more cheese. They often use ketchup, as well. The chips round out the meal and make for a great filling treat.

Dinner - Almond Butter and Jelly Sandwiches with Clementines

This wasn't on the menu for tonight but, we got a last minute invitation to do a little shopping with my mom and sister, so we had to be fast. I almost never go to fast food restaurants because it really only takes 3 min to whip this up and give it to the kids in the car. They love to peel the clementines and they sandwich is super good for them. I really like the bread, it is from Wegmans and it is made with 100% whole wheat, honey and a few other real ingredients. Very simple, very whole. The jelly was a gift from a wedding. The bride grew up on a farm, so although it was probably loaded with sugar, I am sure the fruit was free of pesticides.

For snacks we te bananas, juiced a green lemonade, and had some almonds. I also had coffee:)

Secret

2010-02-01T21:35:00.003-05:00

I have a little secret, but I am not ready to tell. I can't wait to share it with you, but I want to have it perfect before you see it. Here is a little sneek peek to get your mind rolling. Just know that you are gonna love it!

Monday Food Run

2010-02-01T20:46:00.004-05:00

I am excited to share with you some insight into our ways of nourishment. I think we have a great balance of healthy eating and reality. Of course I do, that is why I choose to do it. And, if you know me at all you know that I think my opinions are often beneficial to others. If you don't want to hear it, just move on to your next blog:)

So here is the beginning of a week-long look into our meals. I ran to the grocery store today, Wegman's, my favorite. Shane stayed with the kids, love him for it! I plan out my weeks meals ahead of time so that I can stick with my list. I work with about a $500 budget each month for all 6 of us. We eat about 95% whole foods, meaning is either grew on a tree or in the ground or it came from or had a mother, i.e. chicken, eggs, salmon... Additionally, we eat about 85% organic, at least 50% of that being raw fruits and vegetables. The only thing we eat "bad" is creamer in our coffee. It has fake stuff in it, like corn syrup:( I try to limit this treat, but I get on kicks where I make it everyday. Oh, well.

I cannot tell you how much better I feel, just knowing what is going in our bodies. No modified junk, no prepackaged, foil wrapped, never expiring so-called food items in this house. Oh, no. I mean, except the creamer, er, yeah, just sayin'. I love to come home and clean out the fridge, stock it full of fresh, colorful nutritious goodies.

We juice a lot, so much of our produce is consumed in liquid form, which of course makes it easier

to actually get all that nutrition in one day. I mean, if I actually ate 4 apples, a bag of carrots, a head of romaine, a lemon, ginger root, 5 stalks of kale, and a coconut, I might be in the bathroom all day! But running it through a juicer, not all at once:), provides for some tasty drinks and more nutrients than I could consume just by chomping all day.

So, here is what I bought today. I had a lot of produce at home because I had just stocked up before the big snow this weekend. So I didn't need to buy our usuals; apples, oranges, bananas, romaine, lemons, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocados and spinach. Stay tuned for the daily meal plans and recipes starting tomorrow.

Wegmans trip 2/01/2010 - $113

2 All Natural Pizzas (for the babysitter to feed the kids during the Superbowl party)

Organic yellow corn chips

100% Whole Wheat bread

Ezekiel bread

Butter

Jalapeno cheese

Mozz cheese

Organic plain whole milk yogurt

Coconut milk (My new found love, they sell it by the 1/2 gallon. we use this now in place of regular milk) Coffee creamer, french vanilla (for me) hazelnut (for Shane)

2 bags of whole wheat, Omega-3 tortillas

BIG bag mixed frozen fruit

Organic frozen peas

Organic frozen blueberries

Hagen Dazz ice cream (2 pints, ok, I failed to mention this because I forgot, this is a treat for Shane, I can resist it because I hate to be cold and it makes me very cold!)

24 pack of bottled water

1 gallon of distilled water

Organic applesauce

Organic tomato paste

Organic whole tomatoes

Organic maple syrup

Organic mayo with flax seed and omega3's (this is made by Spectrum and I really like it because it is sweetened with honey and is actually pretty good for you)

All natural dark chocolate peanut butter

Organic buttermilk dressing

Corn tortillas

Almond milk

Kale

Cauliflower

Mango

Sweet potatoes

Zucchini

Almonds

Trail mix

Decaf coffee (whole bean)

Eggs in the Snow

2010-02-01T20:20:00.003-05:00

Annalee is so serious about her egg buisness. She is saving for Disney World and wants to get there fast! She collects the eggs every morning and is always asking if she can go sell. She gets quite irritated when I use the eggs for our family. But, I explain to her that we get to use them first, she gets to sell the leftovers. We eat a lot of eggs, even before we had our own. So Annalee is reinvesting some of her Disney money into the business to buy more chickens.

More chickens = more eggs = more money = more Disney!

Happy Birthday Carla!

2010-02-01T16:59:00.004-05:00

My Aunt Carla turned, ahem, 29. My mom, sister, aunt and I celebrated at the Melting Pot with Fondue for four. It was a great night full of laughs.

Family Day

2010-01-16T19:10:00.004-05:00

Why is my blog not letting me write underneath the pictures??? It also won't let me center the pictures. It publishes in wierd places. Like this forinstance was typed beside the picture. Agghh! Anyway, we had a great Sat. We stayed home all day and didn't invite anyone over. HUGE! It was hard, but we did it. I made breakfast bars for shane. Recipe complimentary of my friend Sherri. I know they look like hamburger patties, but they are not. I also made homemade granola bars, yummy. We finished the night with a bonfire, farwell to the Christmas tree. By the way, Shane is a monster smore maker. Check 'em out!

IMAGINGUSA

2010-01-14T17:14:00.012-05:00

My sister and I had a great time at our first photography conference, IMAGINGUSA. I learned so much. My head was spinning after the first day. I have fabulous new ideas for photography and can't wait to share them with you. But, you will have to wait for the finished product. We had ots of fun driving through TN in the little convertable. You can see Liz trying to stuff all of our luggage in!

Reece's First Baseball Lesson

2010-01-14T16:47:00.002-05:00

Shelby, "Don't Touch Your Brother!"

2010-01-14T12:38:00.005-05:00

Christmas Eve

2010-01-06T20:16:00.006-05:00

The magic of Christmas. The long day home with family, the church service, the lights, the pajamas, the one-present-only opening, the couch time, the anticipation. I LOVE this night. It is so full of emotion. The joy of presents, the peace of the atmosphere, the love of family, the hope of our Savior. All wrapped up in this night. I am filled just thinking about it.

"Papa, dance wif me?"

2009-12-31T11:04:00.005-05:00

Is there anything more heart melting than watching your Papa, that is what I have called my Dad my whole life, and the name stuck when he became a grandpa, give in to the pleas of your 2 year old asking him to dance? Nevermind the firelight and soft Christmas music in the background. Beautiful.

Christmas at our house...

2009-12-28T17:43:00.013-05:00

I, like most people really love Christmas. My mother did a great job intentionally instilling in us Christmas memories. I remember the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the season. Our house was always dimly lit with tree lights and candles. It smelled like seasonal candles or pot roast, soup or cookies. The walls, mantel and windows were trimmed with lots of care. We recently helped my mom go through her many, many decorations and purged, a lot. She has been blaming every missing thing on that purging day, although I am pretty sure it has more to do with the fact that those items got lots somewhere in the last two moves. I have tried to instill these same type of memories in my family. I really wanted to focus every part of the season on Jesus's birth, so our decor reflected that, as well.

Our tree this year was beautiful. We decided to patronize a local tree farmer, staying away from the Big Named places we have been to in the past. We paid only a few dollars more and got a fresh-cut, beautiful 7 foot tree. Did you know the tress you get elsewhere are often cut in September from Canada and frozen for the months prior to there arrival at your local store!? I had previously re-arranged the living room so we could put the tree right in front of the french doors. (A very hard thing for me to do. Once I get a room perfect it is nearly impossible for me to imagine it another way.) But, I was so excited for the sparkly reflections, it was worth it! After we brought it home, it was better than I expected. I made ornaments with the names of Jesus on them (an idea I got from my friend Sherri last year) and added a few jewels I picked up at the store. We put a couple of ornaments that had something to do with the Christmas story, but that was it. It was perfectly simple, perfectly positioned, and perfectly sparkly! Oh, and we finally acquired a tree topper. The perfect star!

I so enjoyed this holiday season. Maybe it was the first snow, or the beautiful home we have been blessed with, or all the parties we got to host. It could have been the amazing Christmas Eve service we had at church where hundreds of people accepted the Lord, or possibly the fact that this is the first year in many Shane and I we able to buy each other gifts. It might be the small joys each day brings as the girls drink hot chocolate, or collect chicken eggs in the snow. But, I am pretty sure it is because the Lord Jesus came to the earth many years ago and because of His sacrifice, leaving heaven to come down on earth, walk among us and be put to death on the cross for my sins, I now have eternal life and a present life full of peace, joy and purpose. He has blessed me so much in ways I couldn't even begin to list, but know this. My life is fabulous, through and through, and it would not be that way if it were not for the reason for this season!

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-28T17:28:00.005-05:00

We woke up to this beautiful sight. It snowed for 30+ hours. That doesn't happen often around here so we settled in and enjoyed it. My friend Rachel and her kiddos came over to hang out for the weekend and it was perfect, cause they would have been snowed in anyway! Sorry, I uploaded the pictures backwards and my VERY SLOW INTERNET won't allow me to reload them right now, so here is the day in pictures, backwards:)

Hot chocolate and a movie. They slept well.

Coming in wet and cold, and worm out.

Annalee in her igloo, trying to take a nap. NO! I did not let her stay there. Rachel writing Christmas Cards by the fire.

Coffee on the front porch.

Thanksgiving Part III

2009-12-21T09:46:00.004-05:00

Prayer of Thanksgiving.

Liz and Tommy, so thankful.

Reece, the Pilgrim.

The Spread.

Asparagus, tasty!

Me, my sister and mom cooking the day away.

The Dolls.

Thanksgiving, Part II

2009-12-21T08:57:00.005-05:00

One little...Two little...Three little Indians...

Avery

Annalee

Shelby

Annalee was determined to get in the ocean. It was not warm.

Thanksgiving, Part I

2009-12-21T08:18:00.004-05:00

The girls playing on the pier.

Annalee, wearing Shelby coat, looking out at the ocean.

Lots of computer time.

Shane holding Shelby.

Tommy loving on Liz

Annalee and my mom sharing a moment.

Avery and Shane hanging out. Side note: Avery loves animals, because she loves to boss them around. She had a puppy on the end of this leash, the whole time.

4 Days at Oak Island, NC. I have to admit, I was not that excited about spending 4 days at a beach house with my husband, our many small children, my sister, her husband, my mom and dad and two puppies. Not that I don't love each and everyone of those components, except the puppies, but 4 days, in a small beach rental, with a lot of rain in the forecast, was not my idea of relaxation. I have a problem with clutter and disorganization, and I just saw visions of messiness everywhere. My skin gets crawly just thinking about it.

But, I was wrong. The rain stayed away, the air was crisp, the house stayed relativly clean, the kids weren't bored, Shane was a HUGE help, as always, and we loved it. It was relaxing, fun, a little sureal and definatley something I want to do again. My generous brother-in-law allowed us to come in and take over the beach house and was ever-so-graciously patient with us.

Shane's Mom had sown Pilgrim outfits for the girls and Reece, and matching ones for their American Girl dolls. One year for Shelby's birthday she had sown Indian outfits to go with a Perter Pan costume set she sent for a present. So we packed up the Pilgrim and Indian outfits and the girls played dress up all weekend. They were a hit at the beach and on the pier! So much fun, so many memories.

Birthday #4

2009-12-21T08:04:00.003-05:00

Shelby blowing out her candles at her Birthday Tea Party.

Annalee thanking God for her little sister.

The big 4 year old.

The goods.

Shelby Lynn Miller is a silly, spunky, slightly strong-willed little girl. She has a dangerous smile and eyes that will make you melt. She knows exactally how to get to her Daddy's heart, just a little look, just a little, "Daddy, will you hold me?" She's a smart one. She enjoys her sisters, loves to be held (as much as possible), would rather sit than run, would rather let someone else do it and can make you laugh on cue. She plays an important role in this family. She knows we enjoy her antics and pulls them out when most needed. She does whatever she wants, whenever she wants, but just not in a defiant way. In fact, if you aren't looking, you may not even notice that she disobeyed. We keep our eyes out and are training her often. I love this little girl. I love her smile, her heart and her place in our lives.

Meet Faith

2009-12-15T20:34:00.003-05:00

Faith is Owen's, little sister. Owen is my friend Tammy's little boy, which also makes Faith her daughter. Yeap, you already figured that one out, right? Right. Moving on... Reece and Faith are a few months apart, therefore, when we all get together they end up starring at each other on the floor. That is what babies who can't crawl do, they stare at really random things, like each other's drool. Reece likes to get in Faith's face and she can't really do anything about it. He can army crawl, she can't. It's a boy thing. She makes mad faces at him and he thinks it is funny. It is.

The Boys

2009-12-15T20:02:00.003-05:00

My dear friends Tammy and Mia have one boy each, Tammy has a baby girl, Faith, whom Reece loves:) and Mia will be having a little girl before next Tuesday! My kids have so much fun with this crew and I can't wait for the babies to grow up a little so they can all play together. What a blessing!

Editing

2009-11-30T16:47:00.004-05:00

After

Before Thanks to the talented little sister, Liz, I have more editing techniques in my tool box. She teaches me all kind of new things, if I ask politely, aaaaand offer a cup of coffee:) Just kidding, she passes on information quite readily. But, today I am especially grateful. I feel like I have so much photography power at my fingertips now. Here is a quick before and after. Stay tuned for better pictures from now on!

Big Girl Hair

2009-11-11T10:56:00.003-05:00

In our house, you are officially a big girl if you get your hair "done." Congratulations Avery. You are moving up in the world!

Reece Love

2009-11-11T10:52:00.001-05:00

Checking for Eggs

2009-11-11T10:48:00.002-05:00

Every morning Annalee checks for eggs after breakfast. It is a chore she owns proudly. This is her Happy Egg Finding Face.

Fall Morning Dew

2009-11-11T10:44:00.001-05:00

Eye Candy

2009-11-11T10:37:00.001-05:00

6 Months

2009-11-05T12:47:00.006-05:00

Wow, time really has gone fast. I realized Reece is a full blow army crawler and I totally missed the progression. I mean, I am home with the little guy all day, you think I would have seen it. My mom pointed out that you could feel his first tooth. He eats a steady diet of avocados, bananas, and mashed up whatever-we-ate-for-dinner. Whew, I can't keep up with him. Here he is in all his cuteness living it up for the camera. He was way more interested in that ball than me, but what can I say, he is his father's son.

Going Green

2009-11-05T12:36:00.001-05:00

So, I finally got around to updating the wallpapered bathroom. Check out this fresh look.