Merry Christmas To All (Part 2)

So, I believe I left off when we arrived at my mom's house.  Have I ever mentioned that Georgia is the best place to be?

Because the boys had been traveling that day too they were wired when they got to my momma's house.  Seven hours in the car gave them a lot of time to store up energy! It was impossible to get them calmed down . . . and Mommy can't go to sleep until they do. 

Saturday we went to the Ellison Christmas gathering (Danny's mom's side of the family).  Weren't my boys handsome?  I love a boy in plaid!  (Apparently they weren't as excited about it.)

That was one packed house!  On the ride over Jonah thought we were going to "Diane's house" (Danny's grandparent's house in SC).  I tried to explain that we were only driving a little way to Grandma's house but he would not hear of it.  When we pulled up in the driveway the garage door was down and we had to go in the front door - which we never do so Jonah was even more convinced it was "Diane's house".  And who is the first person he sees upon entering???  Grandmama Diane!  He was still confused when we left.  When Huck and Eli weren't eating they were sleeping, but Jonah got to play with all the big kids.  He thought he was something else! 

Sunday we went to church with my momma.  Jonah never gets to go to Sunday School because chapel only has child watch.  So, he was excited!  They were having a Happy Birthday Jesus party with cupcakes and all!  That afternoon Danny and I snuck off to do some shopping.   We didn't find anything on our list, but we did find Jonah's birthday present half off!  Woohoo!

Monday was Christmas at my Momma's house!  Here are a few pics of the boys and their toys . . .

Rocking horse! Not the best picture, I know, but I had to show the rivalry.  It took Danny and Sean to get it together, but once assembled the little boys wouldn't get off.  Well, they pushed each other off.

Finger puppets!

Bean bags!

The funniest gift was Danny's family photo album.  When he opened it my mom told him it was full of pictures of the family to take with him on his deployment.  The first picture was . . . David.  the second picture was . . . David.  The third through tenth pictures were . . . you guessed it - DAVID!  Danny was about to die laughing!  Thankfully there was redemption in the back with a few pictures of presidents. ;)

On Christmas Day the boys woke up to more fun.  Check out this face!  Looks like fun, huh?

We went to spend several hours with the whole clan up at Maw and Poppy's house eating and opening presents.  My sweet cousin Hannah had picked out special gifts (many that she made) for each person.  She is such a sweet girl! 

Here is one of my favorites!  Two tired boys with Uncle Darryl.  :D

Sadly, Danny and I had to leave in the afternoon to head back to North Carolina.  The boys stayed with Mamzie so we could do some packing for a few days. We were planning to stop on the way home to pick up some dinner.  Silly me forgot that everything is closed on Christmas and there is not even one single Waffle House on our route.  Thank goodness Uncle Darryl had given us some deer jerky and Maw had handed us some rolls on the way out.  That was dinner :D

I have to say that Christmas this year was very special.  Since we live out of town we had to spend the night - and thus much more time - with family.  It was wonderful!  I also love Christmas as a parent.  It is so much fun to see the joy on their faces and it brings a smile to my face to hear Jonah tell the Christmas story (since he really does listen - who knew?). 

Tomorrow we go to pick up our boys!!!  I can't wait for them to see the BIG surprise we made for them.  I will post about it later.  I would hate for you to ruin the surprise ;)

Merry Christmas to All (Part 1)

It has been a wonderful, fun-filled, whirlwind of a Christmas.  Going into this two week tour around the southeast I thought I would be exhausted by the time we got home.  However, now that I am home I have terrific memories and still have energy for the five hundred loads of laundry I have to do. 

I like for Christmas to be enjoyable.  Too many people are "busy" with Christmas gatherings, shopping, wrapping, and cooking that they miss out on what really matters most.  Thankfully I finished all my shopping and wrapping at a leisurely pace before December began and I got to do my cooking with my favorite little guys - and one big guy. 

Here Danny and Jonah are making strawberry icing.  The little guys are making Corn Pops.  :D  Half of the icing gets eaten before it makes it on the cake - they are masters with icing.  We just can't help ourselves. 

I felt like a grandma.  I made buckeyes, puppy chow, chicken buffalo dip, strawberry cake, and white chocolate peppermint fudge.  Then we loaded it all up and headed to our first destination . . . the Melin family gathering in a beautiful cabin in Banner Elk, NC!

Yes, that picture took forever to take, but we will cherish it forever, right?

I think the highlight of the week was the gift exchange.  It was not exciting because of the gifts - not that they weren't great - but because of the way we exchanged them.  Each year I use a website to randomly assign each sibling/spouse to a Secret Santa.  However, instead of just saying, "Hey, I'm your Secret Santa!" each person had to write a song to the tune of a Christmas carol revealing who would get their present.  I was in stitches!  My song (written by Steven Melin) was the best - even if I am biased.  "Lots of boys, lots of boys, lots and lots of boys" to the tune of Jingle Bells.  I need to get the complete set of lyrics and post them.  It made me smile!

We also spent the week sharing meals and playing the our boys!  I loved having so much time with Danny and my little Dannys.  Here are some cute pics of Jonah, Huck, and Eli having fun, fun, fun!

Eli taming the bear!  Isn't that the cutest grin?  And, yes, the tree there got a gate too . . .

Huck had a "project" with his spoon behind his ear :D

Jonah liked his new winter gear.  Eli liked the boots but got too hot in the whole get-up.  At least his feet will be warm!

However, Jonah was Uncle Ronnie's sidekick all week, especially after Ronnie gave him a Ninja Turtles book.  Jonah had to learn all the turtle names and facts.  He woke up in the mornings wanting the go see Uncle Ronnie.  Too bad Jonah wakes up a little too early for a visit right away.

 

 

Okay, so I could go on and on posting cute pics of my boys, but I will save the rest for posting to Facebook.

Thursday night (right before the first and only snow) Danny and I had to scoot back to Fort Bragg so Danny would perform a wedding.  It was a long trip in some serious fog!  After the wedding bells rang, we left on a very slow trip to Georgia.  I have never experienced holiday traffic because I have always been in walking distance to my family's house.  It is awful, and I feel for anyone who has to do that regularly!  Five miles from my mom's exit and we hit standstill traffic - really?!?!  We made it safe and sound though and our boys were waiting on us. 

Well, that brings me to halfway through the trip.  I will pick up next time with our time with my family.  Now, it is time to go give Danny his presents from me.  We are making Christmas last the rest of the year!

Not As Wonderful As It Sounds

So, tonight was my very first official military ball.  I wasn't super excited about it because I am HUGE so that makes dressing up more of a chore and I can't even middle school slow dance because I have to stand two feet from Danny.  However, I squeezed into a dress and we were on our way.

We arrive and Danny notices that everyone is in a bow tie.  He is wearing neck tie.  Apparently they want everyone to match - who knew?  At this point we are 30 minutes early for the receiving line, so we have time to find a bow tie.  We are thirty minutes from home, so going home won't work.  We decide to hit up the closest Walmart.  Thankfully we have a GPS to tell us where the closest Walmart is.  Danny runs into the store only to find they had just run out of bow ties.  I guess EVERYONE was needing a bow tie seeing as how they are soooo popular.  After trying three other stores (all shown to us by the GPS) we find a bow tie at Kohl's.  Unfortunately, it is NOT a clip on.  It is the kind you have to tie.  So, I called the only person I know who I knew would know how to tie a bow tie . . . my sister.  After explaining that we are not near a computer and that we are over an hour late for the ball, she walks me through step-by-step of how to tie this thing.  It is suppose to be around the man's neck when you are tying it but since Danny was driving I didn't think that was too smart.  So, I hike my leg up onto the dash and tie it around my leg.  I figured if I could tie it around my leg then I could remember how to do that and tie it around Danny's neck.  Not so. :/  Danny's calls a friend to see if he can tie it.  It turns out this friend is leaving the ball because he just came to meet and greet, so Danny can use his tie.  PLUS we can return the new tie.  Woohoo! 

I am ready to just go home because at this point we are way late and I will be so embarrassed to walk in at this late hour.  Surprise!  We get there to find that everything is running behind, and they are just starting the receiving line.  The good Lord knew I couldn't stand in heels for 2 hours and that is exactly what this bow tie hunt saved me from.

We find our table.  I was hoping to be seated with some of Danny's friends.  Nope.  We are seating with Mr. Ed, a man who is super excited about the Army and tells us his stories from when he served years ago, and a couple that is not even 21 and very excited about the free wine on the table.  It was interesting to say the least.

So, there you have it.  My first military ball!  Believe me - it was unforgettable.  :D

From One Holiday to Another :D

I soooo enjoyed the past week!  I hated to see Monday come again.  Thanksgiving was relaxing and full of tons of family time.  I think I was a bit spoiled!  However, not too many more days until Christmas when I will get Danny home even more!

Today I thought I would share some of the Thanksgiving events and some of the plans I have to celebrate Christmas.  First, a cute picture of my little turkeys to get you in the spirit!

Thanksgiving morning we got up and made pumpkin muffins.  I got this recipe from my momma.  It is super easy and only takes two ingredients - of course, I added more to make them even better (but not better for you).  :D  You mix together one box of spice cake mix (I knew there had to be a use for that stuff.) and one can of pumpkin - not pumpkin pie filling - just plain old pumpkin.  Mixing this together will not make your arm fall off but you will come pretty close.  It is dense!  Then I threw in dried cranberries and chocolate chips.  Throw it in muffin tins and into the oven it goes on 400 degrees until a toothpick comes out clean.  Not only do they taste delicious, they make the whole house smell like fall.  Perfect for Thanksgiving morning!

Next, we all cuddled up to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade.  This did not last long because we can't sit still that long.  We finally made it through.  Highlights from Jonah: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (which he only knows from the Toys R' Us magazine), the Mickey balloon, and the Dora float.

We spent the rest of the afternoon playing outside and getting dinner ready.  The boys had extra fun because there was an extra playmate - Uncle Ronnie!  In his honor (and because we are having Thanksgiving food again this week) I put a Latin twist on some of the dishes.  He had given me a cookbook which is where I got the inspiration, but since I can't link to a cookbook I found the recipes online in case you want to try them. 

Chilied Corn - http://mexicanfood.about.com/od/savorysides/r/cornwithchile.htm

Camote - http://mexicanfood.about.com/od/sidedishes/r/camote.htm

I also tried boiled peanuts in the crock pot - success!  Although, it took longer for them to get tender than the recipe said.

So, now I look forward to continuing and starting Christmas traditions with my little family of wild boys.  I love Christmas!  However, it just doesn't feel right celebrating Christmas when December is not even upon us.  It seems to me that the time between Thanksgiving and December 1st has been super long this year.  Maybe if we go ahead and start December will come faster. ;)

One tradition that I love (mostly because I am a mommy of three cutie boys) is our tree skirt.  I started it when Jonah celebrated his first Christmas.  Each year we add on hands.  Here is what it looks like this year!

Being a former school teacher I also have plenty of Christmas books.  I wrapped 24 of them with last year's left over wrapping paper.  Now the boys can fight over who gets to open that days book . . . I mean . . . now the boys can open a book each day for us to enjoy reading together.  Also, because I love to be educational, each wrapped book has a shape, number, or letter written on it for Jonah to find.  For example, "Today's book has a rectangle. Can you find the book with the rectangle?"  I know, takes all the fun out of it.

I was also introduced to Jesse's Tree this year.  It is a daily advent that starts on December.  Each day has a Bible story with a corresponding ornament.  The Bible stories trace the promise of Christ through the Old Testament.  I am super excited.  The ladies at our PWOC all chose an ornament to make 38 of and then we are trading so everyone has a complete set!  I will let you know how it goes!

Of course our Christmas tree is up - with a gate around it.  Even with the gate the score is Twins - 3 Ornaments - 0.  Hopefully there will be some left for next year!

Now I must go and eat some more sweets.  Tomorrow is my glucose test.  Just in case I fail I need to get in enough chocolate to last me for the rest of Christmas!  Hee hee!

Give Thanks for . . . 11-20!

We have had one of those weekends that is suppose to be relaxing, but ends up you need a weekend to rest from the weekend.  Danny was leading a Strong Bonds event at Myrtle Beach. (I don't see the reason of being at the beach in the winter unless, I guess, you want to avoid seeing anyone in a bathing suit.)  We spent the weekend pouring into marriages and families.  While it is a wonderful event I miss my kiddos (who end up in childcare) and my sleep (we all shared a one room hotel).  So, I am very thankful for . . .

#11 - God's Provision

I am thankful for the roof over my head, the food in my kitchen, and the ability to be able to stay home as a full-time mommy.

#12 - My Church Family

Even though we are far away I am thankful that church family is always family.  Whether they are from our childhood churches or from those we have been a part of as adults, they have blessed our lives so much!

#13 - God's Word

I am so thankful that I can sit face-to-face with my heavenly Father each day!  His word is full of so much encouragement, challenge, and promise.

#14 - The Army

Never thought I would say this, but I am thankful for the Army.  Not only do they pay my husband, but they have given me a great opportunity to learn a lot about myself and my family.  PWOC has been a blessing, and I also appreciate the "free" medicine and doctor's appointments.

#15 - Books

I am thankful for so much to read.  I especially love to read with my boys!  It probably has something to do with all the cuddles I get!

#16 - Sleep

I really appreciate the time I get in my bed!  I am thankful that the boys sleep until 8 so I can sleep and still get up and get things done before they wake up.  Not only my sleep, but also nap time.  I get so much done during that "quiet time".

#17 - Health

I am so thankful that I can exercise and that I feel great most of the time.  I don't have to spend time in the doctor's office and I can run (well, most of the time) until my heart is content!

#18 - The Great Outdoors

I think if I had to stay inside all day I would go crazy.  So, I am thankful that God made everything from my backyard to the wonderful Dahlonega mountains!

#19 - Friends

Just realized that not all my friends are family/church members.  Some of them fall into my life to run with me, have play dates, or watch my kiddos.  I am thankful for all those that God brought into my life to make me a better person and to lend a helping hand.

#20 - My Education

While some would say I don't use it now, I disagree.  I use it everyday teaching three of the best students!


There's 11-20 and I think I will stop there because tomorrow is Thanksgiving!  I want to enjoy my time with my little family.  It will be the first time I haven't eaten at Maw's on Thanksgiving in my whole life!  I guess I should end with being thankful that she taught me how to cook!  :D

Giving Thanks for . . . Family!

I see soooo many people posting what they are thankful for on Facebook.  I think it is a great idea, but if you know me you know I have no shortage of words, and one line to say what I am thankful for each day is just not going to cut it.  So, I thought I would post once a week with seven "thankfuls" and use all the words I want!

#1 My Heavenly Father

I am so thankful that God called me to be His at such a young age and that He is still working on me.  He is forever faithful and the ultimate example of love, mercy, and grace. 

#2 My Man!

Not only does God love me, He loved me so much that he made the perfect match for me.  I am thrilled to have spent the past six years with Danny and can't wait for many more.  He is patient, sacrificial, forgiving, humble, and such a servant.  He is also a wonderful father to and example for our boys.  I love that he prizes family time as much as I do.  It brings a smile to my face to watch him wrestle with our boys.

#3 Jonah

My first little boy is such a precious gift and I am thankful for everything that makes him him.  He is smart, witty, and nothing gets past him.  He loves to read (which is a favorite hobby of mine) and will cuddle if I "use my words".  He loves schedules like his Momma and loves to be my helper in the kitchen.  He is adventurous and full of energy which makes me leave my comfort zone and do wild things that mommies of boys do!

#4 Huxton (aka: Huck, Huckle, Huckle Buckle, Huckleberry, Chunky Monkey, Rascal)

I am so thankful that God added Huck to our family.  He provides hours of funny faces, tons of energy, and lots of silliness.  He keeps me humble because whenever I think I have finally figured out this discipline thing he throws a wrench in it.  He is creative (which also means he can find new ways to get in trouble).  I love how kissable his chubby checks are!

#5 Eli

I am thankful that God made Eli with a heart just like his Daddy's. He is the most loving and giving child I have ever met. I am thankful that he brings peace to the playroom.  His little smiles make me smile too!

#6 Baby ?

I feel so blessed to be carrying our fourth child.  I know God has big plans for all my children, but He is using this baby already to teach me faith.  God knew Danny would be gone for the first 8 months we had this little one, and He will give me the strength to thrive during that time. 

#7 My Momma

I am thankful for my mom.  She is such a strong woman of wisdom and love.  She gives selflessly and is a more-than-wonderful grandmother for my children.  I am thankful that she loves to talk as much as I do because I call her ALL THE TIME.  :D

#8 My One and Only Sister!

I am thankful God gave me a baby sister - even if I didn't get to name her Grits.  She is funny and genuinely cares about others.  She makes an awesome aunt!  I am thankful she found a job doing what she does best - teaching.

#9 The rest of my family ( I realize that if I keep going one person at a time I will never fit in anything else I am thankful for.)

I am thankful for a close family.  I have a Maw and Poppy that I enjoyed spending hours with when I was younger.  Maw is so sacrificial and serves our family all the time.  Poppy is great with math homework, funny, and always has candy waiting.  I am thankful he saved me from getting in trouble more than a few times.  I am thankful I got to spend my growing up years right beside my Uncle Darryl, Aunt Anita, Dustin, and Hannah.  They overflow with love!  So many four-wheeler rides!  Now, Jonah, Huck, and Eli have fun playmates every time we visit.  I am also thankful for my Dad's side of the family.  Although I don't get to see them much, they have helped me make some wonderful memories.

#10 My In-Law Family

God blessed me with a LOT of family when I said, "I do".  I am so thankful that they love the Lord and love me like I am their own.  I finally got the brothers I always wanted.  I always wanted two brothers, but five will do :D  I also got two more sisters, more aunts and uncles than I can count, and another set of grandparents!

There are my first ten "thankfuls"!  Boy, I am one blessed girl because these are family that money can't buy! 

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.  ~ James 1:17

The House . . . Finally!

It has only been three months.  That isn't that bad, right?  I have been having fun with my boys!  My thoughts: My boys matter in eternity - no one read this in heaven.  :D  So, my days have been filled with library trips, lots of playing, singing songs, doctors appointments, and tons of hugs!

With that said, I figured it was about time to post the pics I promised a long time ago. . .

We have lived in this house for five months now, but since we found out shortly after moving here that we would only be here for seven to eight months we didn't have much motivation to unpack or decorate. 

Here is my favorite kitchen in the world!

 

 

I love the counter space and the fact that I can cook and watch the boys at the same time!  The yellow room that you see is the playroom.  I will not post pics of that because that would mean I have to clean up all the toys.  Can you say pointless?

Here is my very decorated entry way - ha!  If only I knew how to turn it the right way.  It was the right way when I uploaded - I promise!

Here is the Master bedroom and bath:

There is a big ole' tub that is on the side you can't see.  I have yet to use it, but the boys think it is wonderful!  Through the door is a closet and my favorite room - The Secret Room.  Jonah calls it that because the little boys are not allowed back there.  It is where we craft and exercise.  He likes to string beads and stamp while I sew.  It also holds all of Danny's Army gear, so we won't have a picture of that either.  :(  I know, I wish it were just my room too, but sometimes we have to share.

Here is the guest bedroom.  It is Ree Ree's room if you ask Jonah.  However, any guest can sleep there and I do wash the sheets. :)

One final note.  I know you are all wondering - Is her house always this clean?  My answer: Of, course.  Just give me 24 hour notice if you want to visit in person.

An Oreo of News

When I was going through school to become a teacher, my professor always told us to make our news like an Oreo.  Tell the parents or student something good, something not so good, and then finish with something good.  While this professor did not always follow her advice I am going to use her "Oreo Model" to give you a very glad, sad, glad family update.  Here we go!

Number 1: Glad News

All of our Georgia family and friends will be seeing a LOT more of us next year!  (I hope this is good news for you because otherwise the whole effect if ruined.)  We have missed you so much and can't wait to see you again on a daily basis!  Woohoo for Georgia - the only place sane people live!

Number 2: Sad News

I won't type about this for long because I will get all teary-eyed.  The reason for all our time in Georgia is because Danny is being deployed.  For the safety of him and his team I will not share dates or locations on social networks.  However, I can say he will be home for Christmas 2012 and 2013.  Please begin praying now for safety of all involved.  We will miss him like crazy!  I will stop now while I can still see to type. . .

Number 3: More Glad News

Well, "glad news" is a little more than deceiving because what we actually have to share is SUPER DUPER AWESOME NEWS.  I have been holding it in for almost fourteen weeks now.  (And you thought I couldn't keep a secret!)  Drum roll please ._._._._._._._._._.  (Nice drum roll huh?)

**There will still be FIVE of us traveling to Georgia!** 

I will give you a second to count - hee hee.  Yes, that's right.  We are having a precious baby! 

Now before you start thinking, "They are crazy!" and, "Do they know what causes this?" let me say a few things.  Yes, we do know what causes this.  No, we are not crazy.  Yes, we did it on purpose.  No, I don't need your "funny" comments.  They might just hurt my extremely hormonal heart. 

When we found out we were moving to Fort Bragg they told Danny he was going to be a part of a unit that was not going to deploy until 2015.  Our original plan was to wait a few years and have another baby.  However, with this new timeline that would leave me with a newborn and no help.  So we decided to go ahead and try for another baby.  A little too late in the game the ever-changing Army calls back to tell us that Danny is moving to a different unit that is deploying . . . soon.  So the waiting game began.  We moved and a week later Eli told Danny that he was going to be a big brother!  We were thrilled but it was also bittersweet.  Danny wouldn't be here for the birth or most of the first year of this baby's life.  We also have early pregnancy issues that needed to be handled and we couldn't find a doctor anywhere! (Our Army insurance hadn't kicked in yet.)  Many tears later I found a doctor that would see me once before the Army insurance would takeover. 

I went to my appointment, got the medicines I needed, and waited for an ultrasound.  The ultrasound didn't show anything!  I was so deflated.  The Army doesn't give ultrasounds until 20 weeks and with our past I couldn't wait that long!  But, I had to.  So, I got sicker and sicker (while taking care of Danny's finger along with everyday things).  Thankfully the sickness hasn't been anything like with Jonah or even the little boys.  Finally, my sweet hubby went to the equivalent of a complaint department and got my ultrasound moved up to 10 1/2 weeks.  Talk about a nervous wreck!   I walked into that appointment wound up tight. . . until I saw that sweet heartbeat.  I sight that will steal any mother's heart. 

Now we are almost 14 weeks.  It is on my bucket list to not find out what we are having.  Since I can't wait until I am 80 to do that one, we have decided to do it now.  We will find out if our baby is a boy or girl on February 15, 2013 (or close to it). 

Will Danny get to come home/stay home to see the baby?  How will everyone handle a short-term move?  How will we keep the new baby safe around Jonah who has already said he is going to give it a bear hug?  We still have a lot of questions but one thing we know:  We are held in God's hands and as long as we are there we will be just fine.  We appreciate your prayers and support on this wild journey.

Out Of The Mouths . . .

After being up with Jonah in the middle of the night and waking up to more sick babies, I was ready to set aside every parenting book I have ever read and have a whole day of cartoons and pajamas.  My dish had another idea - it was out.  Jonah was worried, and I told him that Daddy could fix it when he came home for lunch.

Daddy comes home and can't kind the problem right away.  He comes home to eat - not play Mr.Fix-It - and told Jonah that he couldn't fix it now.  Jonah looked at him with a weary face and sighed, "Mommy said you could fix it.  You just have to work harder!"  I think Jonah believes his Daddy could fly to the moon if he tried.  He is Jonah's hero!

My Sweet Little Eli

I am posting this to ask prayers for my littlest boy, Eli.  We had some disheartening news yesterday at the doctor.  I could tell something was a little off with Eli, especially compared to his other brothers.  However, he is so darn sweet that I tend to overlook the areas in which he falls behind.  Before I go any further I want to say that I know many people out there have it much worse, but when it is your kid he is really all that matters to you.  I am thankful that he is as healthy as he is and that we have the means to help him as he needs.  I am asking for prayers because I also know I have a Father who cares about the big things and the little things.

He went in for his 15 month appointment.  He weighs a little over 17 1/2 pounds (0%) and is 28 3/4 inches long (1%).  The scary thing is his head circumference went from the 25%-40% where it has been to the 4%.  Of course he has the throwing up issue that we are STILL investigating, but it has gotten better since the move and he continues to stay the same size.

He also fell below average in all the areas of the developmental questionnaire.  He doesn't try to say any words past "dada" and "duck".  He can't use a spoon or suck out of a sippy cup.  They are referring him to have a complete evaluation to see if he needs to start seeing an OT, PT, speech therapist, etc in addition to the pediatric GI doctor that we will start seeing at UNC.

So, please pray for our sweet boy.  Pray that God will heal his body in a miraculous way.  Pray for me as I patiently wait for referrals and results.  Pray for our family as we travel to doctor appointments and have to leave the other boys with sitters.  And if you find yourself like me - so overwhelmed that you don't even know where to start praying - then sit and know that we serve a God that is good, perfect, and powerful and let the Holy Spirit speak on your behalf.

Thanks,

Carly

A "Strong Bond" to the Mountains!

This past weekend was just further proof that I belong near the mountains.  The Georgia Mountains to be specific, but the North Carolina ones will do. 

Danny had the wonderful opportunity to lead a Strong Bonds at Beech Mountain.  Strong Bonds is a marriage retreat and this one happened to be for families - meaning there was childcare and fun family activities.

Friday we drove up to paradise!  Imagine going from 95 degree weather to a high of 75!  It was wonderful!  We stayed in a two-bedroom condo.  They had a putt-putt course, playground, pool, and lots of green grass for the kiddos to run around in.  That night we met all the couples, and Danny taught a couple sessions.  The material was over the five love languages.  I was very surprised at how many people joined in discussion!  I was also surprised that Danny and I had been married the longest of all the people there!  Good thing I know 26 is not old or I might start thinking it.

Saturday morning we had a few more sessions and then we were off for an afternoon of family time.  We took the boys to Grandfather Mountain!  It was perfect for our family.  Here are a few of the things we did:

We saw BEARS!  This photo is not zoomed in - they were really that close!  Jonah was sooo excited.  He kept looking for a bear that would talk to him.  I tried to explain that real bears don't talk. . . he is still convinced there is a talking bear out there just waiting to be found.

I will admit I get VERY scared going around curves at a mile above sea level, so we pulled into a parking lot and hiked the rest of the way up. Jonah hiked the whole mile on his own two feet!  He was dirty, dirty, dirty when we finished but it was worth it.  Most of the trail was big rocks.  He climbed up them and said, "Bears do this!"  

Once we made it to the top we got to cross the swinging bridge.  I crossed with Jonah while Danny held Huxton and Eli.  Then Danny crossed with Jonah while I held them.  It was super windy, and the bridge was singing!

And here are all my boys back on the trail!

Saturday night childcare was provided for a free date night.  Since we hadn't had a date night since moving to North Carolina, we were beyond excited!  We dropped off the boys and went to dinner.  We had a whole room to ourselves!  It was so nice to sit and talk.  We spent the whole two hours discussing the answers to the Q &A session the next day, but we still really enjoyed it.  We found that we like to teach together and we like the time we get to talk while preparing.  We took dessert to go.  The childcare workers said we could stay out until 10 but no one deserves to watch three boys after their bedtime.  So, we picked them up a little after eight, tucked them in, prepared the devotional for the following morning, and ate dessert while watching the Olympics. 

Sunday was the last day of the retreat.  The Q&A session and devotional went so well.  I could already tell a difference in some of the couples.  Of course, I am sure they could tell a difference in me after three days in the mountains.  :D  But in all seriousness, God really put it on my heart to pray for these couples.  It is my prayer that Danny and I can be role models for the other couples here and that they will come to us for help before throwing away something as wonderful as marriage.

We were given the option of staying an additional night for free.  Can you say YES?!  The spent the rest of the day playing outside, napping, and swimming.  It was a much needed rest for our whole family.

Not even Jonah wanted to go home, but all good things must come to an end.

We decided to make a detour to UNC on our way back to Spring Lake.  We were hoping to see the basketball museum and the Dean Smith Center.  Unfortunately, both are closed on Mondays.  However, we still walked around the campus.  The one building that was open was the swimming pool!  This made Jonah's day!  He has been watching the Olympics with us and he is amazed at the swimmers.  He practices going "underwater" and splashing on the couch.  We took this pic just in case he is in the Olympics one day :D

So, we are home now - back to the scorching heat and long work days.  At least we were refreshed and have less than two weeks before we visit Georgia.  Woohoo!  Now, I just need to find a way for Danny to teach some more of these!  :)

Out of the Mouths . . .

Jonah looked up at me while I was changing his diaper (the last of the three for the morning) and said, "Me and brothers make stinky everywhere."

Yes, yes you do.

Celebrate!!!

Last Saturday Danny and I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary!  So, five years ago I was on my honeymoon, sleeping late, swimming, laying out, eating food I didn't have to cook. 

Today I was up doing crafts with Jonah at 6:15, thinking out what I was going to cook for breakfast/lunch/dinner, looking at all the toys I decided not to pick up last night because it would be a waste of time, and the truth is . . . I wouldn't have it any other way.  Our life now is a testament to five years of following God with our relationship and now our family.  It is five years that show His provision, faithfulness, and love.

I am sure you are wondering how we celebrated.  Well, we were on our way home from the beach Saturday, so we made the most of the trip.  We took Jonah putt-putting for the first time.  He loved it and actually played the first ten holes.  The little boys watched from strollers in the shade.  Sometimes the shade was in the middle of the green, so we just treated them as hazards and had to play around them.  :D  Next we went out to eat seafood.  I would definitely have to say my boys earned a gold star.  They were angels - not one yell, fuss, or complaint.  We even found a model train exhibit next door to the restaurant where Jonah could push buttons and make the trains dump logs, move barrels, etc.  Then, we headed home to unpack - woohoo.

When we arrived at home I found that Danny had been busy.  He had to come home one night during the week.  While he was home he had cleaned the house and covered the kitchen counter with flowers.  He also gave me my favorite present!  Our family photo album!  Photo albums are not good undertakings for OCD people like me.  I want EVERY picture in the album with captions.  Thankfully he does a great job and even puts some captions!  It really is a gift that keeps on giving.  So, I sat and looked at all the pictures, the old ones and the ones he had added since the last time.  It was a wonderful trip down memory lane. 

Now for the big surprise!  He wrote a poem for me.  I am going to post it without asking because he would be embarrassed - hee hee!  I married him for his rhyming skills. :D

Five Years Ago

Five years ago I said “I do,”

The words said that day were only for you.

For better or worse and in sickness and health,

I would be you man in poor and wealth.

The time has been so amazing and fun,

I am glad I pick you to complete me as “one.”

Five years ago I said “she’s mine”

To take care of and give all my time.

The days have been full of fun,

And it amazes me how close we’ve come.

The Scriptures say to provide and protect

And that’s what I’ll do with no neglect.

Five years ago I said “just you”

And that is my promise in all that I do.

The one true love that means it all,

My heart in love for you will fall.

The blessing of calling you my bride

Is the title for you I use with pride.

Five years ago I said “I’m blessed”

To cuddle with you and provide you rest.

If you are sick or tired or just need an arm

I am here for you to keep you from harm.

I am thankful for my time spent with you

The blessings I receive are daily new.

Five years ago I committed to serve

I want to give you what you deserve

A husband that’s perfect I am far from,

But a man of love is what I hope to become.

For the rest of my life to you I’ll stay true

And I hope these words show that I love you.

I'll give you a second to finish wiping your tears.  Isn't he just the sweetest thing?  No wonder my children are so kind-hearted.  They get it ALL from Danny!  I think I will keep him for another five years at least ;)

Out of the Mouths . . .

Yesterday's nap time had a horrible beginning.  Huxton and Jonah fell right to sleep while Eli stayed up.  About twenty minutes into nap time Eli woke the other two up.  Talk about a frustrated momma!  So, I pulled Jonah out with hopes the other two would go to sleep.

I tucked Jonah into the bed with me and dared him to get out of bed.  I turned over with my back to him to try and catch some Z's.  He leans close and says, "Honey, are you mad at me?"  Of course, I bust out laughing - who knows where he hears these things - and turn over so the poor baby doesn't think I am mad at him.  That sweet boy!

Our Week . . .

It seems we can't really catch a break up here is North Carolina.  I keep wishing for those ruby red slippers, but until they arrive I guess I will have to stick it out here.  Thankfully my sister was able to come up and lend a hand last week and my in-laws stopped by Sunday night to visit.  Jonah left for Georgia with Hillary so he could visit family down there.  Boy, I miss that kid! I never realized how much fun (and noise) he adds to my life.  I am so excited about seeing him today at the beach!!!

That brings us to Monday.  Well, we had picked out a new piece of furniture last week.  Once we got it home I unloaded the heavy thing (yes, I am that strong :D  ) and brought it in the house.   We opened the box to find that the piece had three huge scratches right down the side.  Thankfully, a quick call to the company fixed the problem.  We headed off Monday afternoon to switch it out for a new one.  We got back home late and decided to make French toast.  After dinner I started the 4 hour process of cleaning up the boys.  Okay, it doesn't really take that long, but sometimes it feels that way.  Huxton was almost clean when Danny pointed out Eli's lips.  They were getting bigger by the second.  Now, who is the first person you call when anything happens that you don't know how to handle - your MOM!  She said to give him Benadryl.  I followed the doctor's orders, but his lips kept growing and he started getting red hives on his head.  Danny and I decided we would rather be safe than sorry and headed to the ER. 

They remembered us from last time. 

The nurse moved us to the front of the line after she tried to give Eli Benadryl and he could not swallow it!  Scary for mommy!  The sweet nurses in the back kept Huxton at the nurses desk and gave him a popsicle and some crackers.  He loved it!  Meanwhile, Eli was given a breathing treatment and steroids, threw up all over the floor, was given more medicine, and then finally got his popsicle.  We have to be fair.  We got home a little before midnight.  So, much for my plans to mop.

Tuesday was Danny's first day back to work since his run-in with the bike.  He was worn out by lunch.  Unfortunately, lunch is not the end of the day, so he had to stick it out a little longer.

Wednesday was of course the 4th of July!!!  Jonathan and Jessica came to visit.  We made homemade pizza and played board games.  I had all these good intentions of taking pictures but it never happened.  Oh well!  We actually were in the middle of a game and decided to skip out on loading sleeping babies up and driving to base for the fireworks.  Good thing because we would have missed the GREAT show put on by our drunk neighbors across the street!  I have never laughed so hard in the life!  They were shooting them into the neighbors yard, they were exploding right over their house.  It was very dangerous for them but fun for us to watch :D

Thursday and Friday just had a trip to Walmart and some at home time.  Since I hate loading these boys into hot car seats in 105 degree weather I was happy to stay at home.  The poor things get so sweaty!  You know they don't like it either.  We did rent a movie, but as our luck would have it it was scratched.  It took forever to watch the movie because it kept freezing.  We got the idea.

Now I better get packing!  Beach bound in just a bit!  Woohoo!

Father's Day Festivities

We ran a little late for Father's Day this year.  I remembered it was Father's Day when I walked into church and the projector had a lovely picture of a father and his son walking hand in hand.  Opps!  What a failure I am! . . . okay, I'm over it.  So, I told Danny that we were going to celebrate Father's Day the next Friday when he got home from being in the field.  That way the boys and I would have all week to get crafty!  Have you ever tried to do crafts with three boys?  They don't craft for more than 2 minutes and it takes 2 hours to clean up the mess!  :D

Here is what we came up with . . .

A card! (Thank you Pinterest) It was much easier than I thought it would be to get all those footprints!

I also took each boy's picture in Danny's boots (or as close as I could get).  I put all the pictures in a frame with the words "With every step we take we try to walk in your shoes".  Here are the pictures:

Huxton was not about the stand in those boots.  Sigh.

Last but not least (because it is my favorite one), I asked Jonah a few questions about Danny.  I didn't do it interview style because Jonah is much too busy for interviews.  I asked him questions throughout the day.  Boy, does he love his Daddy!  The funny thing?  He answered the questions the same way when Danny asked him later!  I figured I will ask him these same questions each year and see how they change.  Here are the questions and answers from this year:

What is Daddy’s name?  “Daddy”

What does Daddy do for fun?  “Basketball, soccer ball”

What does Daddy do at work?  “Play soccer ball.”

How old is Daddy?  “Two and I love him.”

What is Daddy’s favorite thing to eat?  “Meatballs”

What is Daddy’s favorite thing to drink?  “Tea”

How tall is Daddy?  “Big”

What color is Daddy’s hair?  “Green”

What color are Daddy’s eyes?  “Black”

What do you like to do with Daddy?  “Play cars”

How does Daddy drive?  “Really BIG!”

What does Daddy say?  “Go Tarheels!”

What does Daddy wear?  “Basketball helmet”

What is your favorite thing about Daddy?  “He sings a LOT!”

How much do you love Daddy?  “To the moon and back!”

So, I might have missed the REAL Father's Day, but we just love Danny so much that we needed extra time to figure out how to express it  ;)  Maybe next year I will get it to him on time!

A Relaxing Sunday Afternoon . . . in the ER

Realizing I am so far behind on blog posts, I was planning on sitting down this afternoon to write about Father's Day and our trip to the beach . . . Danny had other plans.

My family had just left on the long ride back the Georgia.  (We had a FABULOUS weekend, by the way!)  The boys were down for a nap, so Danny decided he would get some things done.  When we first moved here we bought a spin bike so I could exercise while Danny was gone (since I can't run with our big ole stroller and my heavy boys).  The bike arrived on our front step BROKEN!  We called the company and they sent some parts to try replacing ourselves before they sent a technician.  Danny wasn't sure they had sent the right parts so he tried to feel what might be making the weird noises.  Next thing I know Danny yells.  He thought he had just pinched his finger, but when he looked down the tip of his finger was missing!  Blood was squirting and he couldn't even feel his finger.  He grabbed a towel and started putting pressure on it. 

I started going crazy!  All these things were racing through my mind: How do I get to the hospital?  Who can keep the kids?  Will Danny have to go alone?  Will they be able to fix his finger?  Will he bleed to death? 

I called 911 not knowing if I could get a sitter right away and knowing Danny needed to get to the emergency room.  They told me to get the finger tip and put it in a clean plastic bag, to put pressure on the wound, and to not leave Danny until help arrived.  Now I never disobey directions - but I ran to the car to get his ID and wallet.  Then I ran to the neighbors to see if he could watch the kids until I could find a sitter.  He agreed and a friend of mine found some help for me to watch the boys.  Sooooooo, I called 911 back and cancelled the ambulance. I could drive Danny myself - right?   Bad idea!  I didn't know how to get to the hospital so Danny was giving me directions.  Then he starts turning white on me.  He was about to pass out!  I couldn't find my way to the hospital, keep pressure on the wound, AND drive!  SO, I call 911 for the third time.  They sent the ambulance to meet us on the side of the road.  They loaded him up and off we went to the emergency room.  By the time I got to see Danny again he was drugged up on morphine.  If you think he talks a lot you should have heard him on meds!  He was chattin' it up! 

They had a hand specialist "on hand" (ha ha) that was able to look at the finger and make some decisions.  Danny had cut through bone but still had part of his nail.  The doctor told us they couldn't reattach the finger.  Danny would get some special foil on his finger to help the nail bed.  Then, we would do bandages until it healed over itself.  "How long will that take?" I asked.  SIX TO TEN MONTHS! 

Now Danny has never been a patient so we didn't know how meds would work on him.  They began working on Danny but he could still feel everything despite the medication they had injected.  Being the kindhearted doctors they are they injected more medication. He could still feel it!  After they had given him all the numbing medicine they could inject (and his finger was so full of the stuff it could pass for a sausage) they decided he was just going to have to bite the bullet.  They gave him more pain meds through his IV and went to work.  It was painful to watch.  Then the IV meds made him feel so sick. 

When they finally finished and Danny was all bandaged, we still couldn't believe what had happened.  I am so thankful that we have made some friends here that are willing to step up and take care of our kids just like we have been friends for years.  I am glad I have a husband who tries to stay positive through it all. I am glad we had doctors who knew the best way to handle this situation.  And I will be glad when this life at Fort Bragg resembles anything close to normal!  Please pray for Danny as he heals and deals with all the pain and inconveniences this will bring. 

Out of the Mouths . . .

A few nights back I made some chicken dumpling things. Jonah had already eaten something else since he was "starving" and couldn't wait any longer.  Danny had almost finished his dinner when  . . .

Jonah: I want some, Daddy.

Daddy: Okay, here are two bites.  (Cuts two bites and puts them on Jonah's plate.)

Jonah: I need a fork, Daddy.

Daddy: No, just use your fingers.

Jonah: No, Daddy.  I need a fork.

Daddy: (Puts one of the bites on his fork and gives it to Jonah.)

Jonah: (Takes the fork from Danny and points to the food left on Danny's plate) You can use your fingers.

A short time later Jonah asks for some tea.  Danny told him he couldn't have any.  Jonah's reply?  "Daddy, you can share!"

At least he is listening!

My Boys Keep Me Smiling!

While this transition has been anything but easy, I have three little men that never fail to bring a smile to my face (even at 5:45 in the morning).  Here are a few of the things that have kept us busy over the past week or so. . . Enjoy all the cuteness!  :D

Here is where we spend countless hours.  It might look like a play set to you, but to Jonah it is the "playground".  When we got here it had sand under it.  It only took one trip outside before I was tired of the sand.  It is amazing all the places sand can get when you are a little boy!  So, we put in edging and filled it with rubber mulch.  Ta-da! 

Here is the picture you really want to see!  My boys playing on it!

We also have treats on the playground!  This watermelon was a juicy, cool afternoon snack!

And no summer afternoon is complete without a popsicle!

We also have our own car wash right in the backyard!



We found this old sled in the trash - now it is a torture device for me!  Huxton LOVES it!  If I don't hide it, he brings it to me to get a ride!

We also have lots of fun inside.  Before our stuff arrived the boys enjoyed playing in the cabinets.  Now that our stuff is here they still enjoy playing in the cabinets - all my kitchen supplies just get pushed aside!  Doesn't Jonah's smile make you want to go play in your cabinets?

All the boys love playing in the playroom.   We play trucks, read, build towers with blocks, and wrestle!  Where you see Huck in this picture is where he loves to be.  Once he mastered getting up in that chair he was the happiest boy on the block! 

Huxton and Eli had their first attempt at using a spoon.  Eli warmed up to the idea after Danny had fed him most of it.  Most of it still ended up on his face!  So cute!

Huck decided he would hold the spoon, but that was all he was going to do with it!  Messy boy!

Back to the fun!  I promise pictures of the house are coming - as soon as I have all the boxes out of site and there are pictures on the wall instead of propped up on the floor!  One day . . .