The Way It Is

I don't know if anyone else needs these verses right now, but I do, so I'm posting them. I hope that they might encourage others as well. Then, I'll tell you what's up in a series of posts probably (because I'm wordy like that). 

James 1:12   Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Romans 12:12  Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

John 16:33  I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

James and I are wondering how God is leading us and what our future holds as far as involvement with missions, or orphan care, or adoption-related ministry, or whether we are to adopt again. We admit aloud that we just have no clear idea what He's doing, but that He is moving in our hearts. Many things have led to this phase of our journey, and I'm sure we will keep seeing His guidance lead us to the point we go, "Ohhh! That's it!" For now, we are working on obedience in what our roles clearly are for now (husband, wife, nurse, teacher, lay ministry in the church), and taking small steps to see how doors open. 

Part of our steps forward have included participating for the last months in a small group at another church that meets a couple of times a month. It is a group for families who are adopting, have adopted, or are considering adoption, and also folks who just want to support families in those categories. The encouragement we've received as we hear of similar parenting dilemmas, and education on methods of parenting, as well as studying wisdom from Scripture on how to love each person as much like God the Father does. That doesn't mean overlooking disobedience, or trying to pass blame, or explain everything as an issue because of adoption. It's about grace and demonstrating that to each individual, whether they deserve it or not, since He did that for us. We have shed tears, rejoiced over victories, and carried burdens together. I cannot say how much that group has grown to mean to us.

We also led a study at our home church for 8 weeks on the book Adopted for Life, by Russell Moore. Moore's book is such a wonderful volume on blending the importance of the believer to somehow be committed to caring for orphans - whether through financial/prayer/material/emotional support, or to actually adopting themselves - and the plan of God's adoption of us, as His children. The theology of spiritual adoption is so beautifully laid out in the book, and moved us to tears many weeks as we discussed the truths in it. If we realize our former state - orphans spiritually, with no hope, no future, and undeserving on our own merit of His goodness; but then brought into a family of hope, eternal life, with all the rights of His children - that is pretty much shouting ground! 

So, we are prayerfully seeking what we are to do as a family. First, as an individual, it's been clear for a few months that my steps forward include my first trip overseas, and my first short-term missions trip. I'm leaving for Swaziland, Africa, in 18 days. Not that I'm counting. I am so excited and also anxious to be with our friends who are serving the Swazi people full-time. My dear friend Alli is my partner in this journey, and we are thrilled to be learning together how He can use us. You can follow our blog about Swaziland at oneweekinafrica.blogspot.com also. 

As our family continues to seek God's plan, we'd love your prayers that His will would be what we follow, not our desires or good intentions. Thank you so much!

Remembering Pop

Two years today, James and I began the most emotionally difficult stretch of our marriage and family life to date. It was a Monday and James' sister, Angel, had taken their dad, Pop, for a doctor appointment to check some things out since he had felt under the weather over the weekend. Her phone call that afternoon rocked our world. The doctor had taken her aside to tell her that Pop was seriously ill and was only expected to live another couple of days. As James listened and reacted, then hung up and filled me in, I truly felt like I was in shock. Things happened quickly as he readied to leave and meet Angel and Pop at the Vines' home, since Angel didn't want to have to discuss the news with Pop and Granny alone. I made plans to join them there later, after notifying some friends to please pray for strength for us all.

After years of working so hard to provide for his family and giving to others, sweet Pop's heart and lungs were just worn out. A combination of issues related to emphysema, asbestosis from coal mining, congestive heart failure, damage from years of cigarette use had damaged his lungs and heart beyond repair. The few months prior had also included family stress and hurt that we all believe contributed to his physical decline, though none of us were prepared for the prognosis received that day.

I gave James time to share those moments with his family before bringing Isaac, Abigail, and Elijah over. The mood was serious and we livened it up a little bit, though the kids knew the basics of the situation. We all hoped for a few days at least, since there just had been no warning that he was suffering so greatly. Pop and Granny both wanted us there, and as he reclined in his chair and we visited, he asked often where the kids were and what they were doing, as they played around the house. His usually strong voice was raspy and weaker than normal, calling, "Where are the babies?" I loved when he called them all that. Within a few hours, it became softer, and then, very faint. Before we left that evening, we all had time to hug him, and the kids did too, telling him how much we loved him. He responded to every one of us. He asked for me specifically, and I leaned in to kiss his scruffy cheek, and he said, "I love you, doll." That was a special expression for only the girls who were closest to him. It was my favorite. He squeezed my hand in his big ol' knuckly hand. I cried and said I would see him in the morning.

We slept as well as we could that night at home, though James stayed with his family there. The next morning I made plans to have the children taken care of by friends so I could go back over, and James told me it had been a stable night, but Pop hadn't spoken anymore after we left. We visited quietly as more family came, the hospice nurse shared info with us, and we just waited. That afternoon, it became obvious that the doctor's estimate had been generous. We knew there wouldn't be even a couple of days left.

I don't know if you've ever been with a loved one in their last hours. I am sad that I know some of you have. To watch Pop's complexion actually change, and his breathing to slow gradually, and his life to just drift out of him was a very poignant experience. The physical signs probably helped us see that he was leaving us, but it also was heart-wrenching. Though I dreaded seeing him looking so unlike himself, I am grateful I could be there, witnessing that transition and seeing him peacefully sleep until he was gone.

One of the most beautiful parts of that day, because there was beauty despite the pain, was when Pop's sweet niece came over with his sister. Angel asked if she would sing a favorite hymn, Peace in the Valley. Hearing that precious, pure voice he loved sing right there in the living room was moving and a wonderful tribute to Pop. He officially was gone from this life right at 3:30 pm. Someone later pointed out that was quitting time at the mines, and it was so fitting that Pop was "off duty" right after he'd put in his day's work. For anyone who knew him, and his responsible, committed work ethic, that was a detail that made us smile.

Two years later, I can hardly believe how much we feel his vacancy in our lives. I wore one of his flannel shirts today. It feels like him, but doesn't smell like him anymore. No phone calls from him to check in on us. No funny commentary on the latest national news. No more jet black, styled-with-Vaseline hair. No more  "Pass me the cornbread - just hand me a piece!" Oh, he was so much fun! So tender with little children, doting on his wife, loving with animals, loyal to friends, and so strong and tough in the right ways.

He had also been a master electrician and during times of strike at the mines, would do electrical work, or odd jobs, to keep the family fed and bills paid. Many folks hired him to do wiring, or yard clean up, or bought the fish he'd caught, etc. Nothing was beneath him, though he had skills and experience that could've made him prideful. He was willing to do whatever it took to be the provider for his family. What a wonderful example, and it's no wonder James is the kind of provider he is.

Pop grew up when folks didn't treat each other equally, based on skin color. Though he had examples of hatred all around him, I always admired and loved the fact that he grew up to be dear friends with a man with much darker skin than himself.  He talked and visited with Jim often, and several other men served alongside Jim as pallbearers and were there to support the family at the funeral and days to come, based on their long term friendship with Pop. Besides working in the mines with these men, he did electrical, and other, jobs for many African American families over dozens of years, sometimes without pay, and without complaint. It was good to help folks in need, no matter their race, and he chose to do the right thing. He still struggled with how to reconcile what he'd been taught as a child and how to overcome that prejudice in his language at times. He wasn't afraid to challenge popular divisions in their community, or even his own personal leanings. It takes a strong person to do that, I think. What a testimony of loving others as himself.

James just finished a large building project, redoing the deck on our house. A hundred times during that job, I kept thinking how much Pop would've loved to be there, seeing our kids all hammer nails into scrap wood alongside James. He was the one to teach the older three how to hammer and that is a sweet memory. The fact that he never met Owen Thomas is one of my main regrets in life. He would love this little boy who is so like him, and bears his name; a people person, quick with a smile, and already such a hard worker. I imagine his deep chuckle and just know he'd say, "Look at that boy, Nancy! Woo, I tell ya, he is something else!"  I mourn that we have to wait a lifetime to see them together.

I am so grateful that for 17 years I was able to share many moments with such a dear person, and that he knew I loved him deeply. I long for the day our family will be together again. Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with such a father for my husband, and example for us all!

i love this adoring look from isaac

Here are a few favorite photos, showing him just being the best Pop ever.

fishing with abigail

meeting elijah

Springtime is coming!

Our first daffodils are blooming and make such a bright spot in the otherwise dreary days here at the end of winter. Abigail and Elijah posed for me one chilly day, so we could document and remind ourselve that springtime really is coming!

Recently we have had some crazy rainy weather, but a few days of sunshine mixed in, which have helped keep us sane. We're so thankful for that! Last week we had a playdate with our school group, and Elijah taught himself to ride a scooter there at the park. It was amazingly simple looking for our sweet two year old. We were so proud and impressed! We also went to Aldridge Gardens as a family that weekend to soak up some sun and enjoy the beautiful hiking trail. Here are a few photos of our biggest kids. Owen stayed snuggled inside the Moby wrap the whole time, but he enjoyed it too. :-)


Yesterday we experienced a true March weather day in Alabama. We were at the farm belonging to a friend's family, and had sunshine, clouds, rain, drizzle, and wind, but thankfully no snow. It was a fun day despite the mud (or maybe because of the mud!) and the kids especially enjoyed riding the fun vehicles around the pasture. We cooked out over the fire, and generally just enjoyed awesome fellowship. We love the outdoors and spending it with friends and family make it even better!

The Dixon family

Please remember this family, who are dear friends, in your prayers this week. Mike is nearing the end of his life's journey, and it's a heartbreaking time for those of us who here who love him. His young wife, and baby, as well as their parents and siblings, appreciate our prayers for their peace and comfort, while they see their loved one struggle. Mike has absolute peace that he is at this point, and his faith is an amazing thing to read of here:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikedixon

Yea for a great market day!

We had a blast at today's Farmers' Market, and had a wonderful turnout for very first day of it. I was so encouraged, and was complimented a lot on my booth and products. It was neat meeting all sorts of folks, and seeing friends too, who were so faithful and loyal to come out and visit. My precious husband helped me till the wee hours of the morning getting ready, Graced provided last minute canning tips, and Jenn was the inspiration behind my idea for the sign (which I prepared at 1:00 this morning). I sold all my apple and strawberry butter and strawberry sauce, and had folks asking for more, so that is neat! The tussie mussies, fresh lemonade, and herbs sold pretty well, too. I was interviewed for a local paper, so we'll see if I end up in the article. God held the monsoon off till near the end, and by that point, I was almost out of everything, so it was fine to go ahead and pack up!

Here are some photos from the morning! Click on the collage to see them better. You can't see it well, but I had jasmine hanging across the front of our canopy, which was so pretty and smelled wonderfully!

Snow Day video

There are photos to come from the fun snow day we had on Sunday. We got several inches and it was enough to go to the park next to our neighborhood for some fun sledding. Excuse the rough film by my amateur videographer. I tubed down this hill by the lake with Elijah on my lap. I was laughing so hard, and hoping Abigail was actually recording. She was, but the walking towards me at the end might make you a little woozy...

Valentine's Fun

What a happy Valentine's Day it was! We have had a lot of minor sickness the past few weeks (croup, fever virus, sinus infections), so today was a nice afternoon to just enjoy being together as a family, feeling mostly normal. Well, as normal as we ever are....

Anyway, here are some things I'm thankful for; some are silly, and some are very sincere. I hope you are feeling tremendously loved today!

-- a healthy husband and three children
-- an afternoon to eat out with all of the above, and spend a little time/money at Target
-- daffodils and crocus blooming all over my yard
-- a fun night last week with precious (and very silly) friends at our Sweetheart Social :-)
-- Valentine mail
-- knowing true love from my husband, Father, and family
-- a playdate with friends on a sunny spring-like day
-- a good ENT who prescribed me meds. and insurance that allowed me to go
-- a visit from my Dad this week on his way from a day of work in Montgomery
-- our new French press - if you've never tried one, you don't know how good homemade coffee can be

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Elijah is 13 months old!

Disclaimer: I have to post all these things here, because some day I'll actually catch his baby book up from these notes! Please feel free to scan quickly or ignore if you're bored to tears. I know grandparents do enjoy reading these milestones though!

Mama and sweet E
Elijah is now walking everywhere and it is so great! He started slowly, back in December, but was still more comfortable crawling for a while. The first week of January was when he really decided to take off. He is so cute, and very funny with his little wide stance-waddle. You should see him dance. I'll have to post video of him on here. He is eating well, finally, and likes to try what we eat, after first resisting most textures. The only thing I buy just for him is Yobaby yogurt, and he loves it! He eats grapes, bananas, apples, cucumbers, beans, sweet potatoes, pickles, yogurt, and cheese the best. He enjoys cheerios, crackers, and goldfish too. He will try most anything, and so mealtime is easy now, as we just give him samples of our food. He had steamed broccoli and carrots when I made Chinese this week, and those were a big hit. He isn't a fan of milk or juice, still preferring Mama for now. He seems insulted by a sippee cup, and throws his head back or pushes it away. Our baby boy has a bit of a temper, but his outbursts are short-lived. He tends to be dramatic, like a certain girl we know, and will melt when I put him down sometimes, sobbing into his hands while he lies face-first on the floor. We are working on nipping that in the bud.

Drama King

Thankfully, Elijah is communicating a little with words like more, bye bye, and does signs for both of those, says Mama, and Dee for daddy, and has a word for milk now ("meh!" said in a very happy voice when it's time to nurse), and he has expanded his animal sound repertoire too. He is hilarious calling Merlin, our sweet, big, old cat. He "meows" for him, and pats his leg, like he is calling him, and over and over will say, "Mer, mer, mowww, mowwww..." That crazy old kitty comes too, and just lets him love all over him. It is precious. He loves Sugar, our lab, and calls her too, saying "Woof woof, woof woof," for her. He's thrilled to see her from a distance, but when she gets close, he freaks. It makes me crazy, because she's so slow and gentle, and doesn't do anything to him, but he screams and acts like he's going to die if she comes up to him.

Based on our last appointment, Elijah weighs about 24 pounds, and is the 95th percentile for length, and just above average for weight. He does seem to have slimmed down some, or maybe it's that he's just longer. His belly and legs are where he's the chunkiest, and so he is still "hammy," as James says. Those little chubby hamstrings earned him that name, and since he is such a cut-up, he's a ham in other ways as well. :-) He is cutting some new teeth, so will have 10 soon!

This past week, Elijah moved up to the toddlers class at church, and is doing well playing with other folks a little bigger than him. Having a big brother and sister around probably helped that transition be a relatively easy one. We still marvel at how precious he is, and Isaac and Abigail are amazingly kind and patient, even as he is getting into their things more. He has totally earned his various nicknames, such as "The Destroyer," "Bulldozer," and "Wrecking Ball." He's the cutest destruction crew I've ever seen!

Pre-Destruction














Dancing machine

Shocking law about to go into effect

My friend Joy just knocked my socks of this morning by referring to this article in the L.A. Times. I had never heard of it, but after an hour of research online, I have checked the US government's site, and there are also numerous mentions of this article all over the internet. A new law (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) scheduled to go into effect on February 10, 2009 will affect millions of Americans who depend on second-hand items for their children.

If this is true and seems to be, and you frequent consignment shops, thrift stores, or yard sales to buy, donate, or sell children's clothing and toys, then your life is about to drastically change.

Here is the gist of it:
"The law, aimed at keeping lead-filled merchandise away from children, mandates that all products sold for those age 12 and younger -- including clothing -- be tested for lead and phthalates, which are chemicals used to make plastics more pliable. Those that haven't been tested will be considered hazardous, regardless of whether they actually contain lead."

Why we haven't heard anything before now about it, and how it was passed by Congress and signed into law, I do not understand. Apparently the bailout was the focus of everyone's attention and this got no media notice. I'm concerned and disturbed. I'm not sure if contacting lawmakers now does any good, since it would be difficult to change the law, but I think we need to try to do something. The law goes into effect overnight, so that products are available one day, then illegal to purchase the next without inspection certificates. Thrift stores and consignment stores will not be able to afford testing, so will go out of business. Yard sales of children's clothing and toys manufactured will no longer be legal. Homemade clothing items for sale will not be allowable, unless it meets certain standards. This is yet another example of the government's over-involvement in our daily affairs. Whatever happened to personal resposibility? So, what do we do?

Links with the details:
Website with info regarding Commission
The Act itself
Consumer Product Safety Commission: Ballot and Brief

UPDATE at 2:00:

I have contacted my Congressman, and Senators. I'm awaiting responses from them. I also got in touch with American Family Association, whose rep. hadn't heard of the Act either. She referred me to the American Center for Law and Justice, and I have now emailed them asking for advice and how we can respond. I'm getting a lot of responses from you all, and everyone obviously agrees this is a huge problem. Lower income families depend almost entirely on thrift stores, etc. for their clothing needs, and I'm wondering how they will survive without that resource. I think we need to set up our own massive freecycle network, instead of depending on outside sources in the future, since they appear to be on the verge of extinction...

Birthday Week

I've had a wonderful, several days-long celebration for my birthday, courtesy of family and sweet friends who spoil me rotten. We went to see my parents on my actual birthday, and enjoyed my first meal at a Japanese restaurant. It was fun, and the food was great. The next day included a trip to a far that is open to the public only once a year, and we were able to see lots of historic farm equipment in action, a museum of antique appliances, vehicles, and collections of materials used on a daily basis back 100 years ago. It was very reminiscent of Little House on the Prairie with blacksmiths, a working sawmill, dairy farm, weavers and quilters...we felt like we were in Walnut Grove. After the farm, we met up with Jacob and Caroline at Hurricane Creek and hiked several miles. It was a gorgeous cool fall day, and I was able to backpack Elijah the whole time! I was so proud of crossing some rough terrain with my almost 25 pound baby on my back. I felt like Sacajawea! He loved the jostling around too.

That night, my sweet girlfriends took me to dinner and we had a wonderfully fun time together. We're so blessed to have such deep, enduring friendships. God has really put us together and our faith is the common thread throughout our lives, so we have a precious bond. They had contributed notes to a scrapbook sweet Amy put together. It's a treasured gift.

The weekend ended with our church fall festival, which was a blast. We then had a dinner with another couple Monday night, so have partied hearty for days now. I am so thankful for your many sweet words of encouragement, phone calls, and emails to wish me a happy birthday. It truly was!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

So much to blog...so little time

I'm behind - way behind - on blogging. I miss it terribly, and think daily of things I want to document or share on here. Life is good for our family, but right now our youngest member isn't keen on my sitting at the computer. I even have to check email in record time, while standing! The only reason I'm blogging now is because he is asleep and I'm not falling over asleep myself - yet. :-)

This past week was James' birthday week (40th!), and I wanted to at least acknowledge that. I made a carrot cake at his request on his actual birthday, which we enjoyed, and Elijah especially loved the cream cheese icing with orange zest. I'll have to share a video of that. We decorated our house with handmade signs, had an outing to go bowling, and Abigail scored a strike on her first try!

Friday night a few couples met up with us for dinner, which was a blast, and it was so fun to have a rare night without children, (except for Elijah of course). We also enjoyed a visit to Aldridge Gardens with my parents and yesterday was a visit with James' parents, sister, and brother-in-law. We are so thankful for the family and friends who love and celebrated my well-deserving husband. He is a treasure and though he's not the type to want a big ol' celebration in his honor, he sure is worthy of one. I wonder if I can list 40 reasons I love him...that would be a great post. I'll have to work on it. There are even more reasons than that, but I'm not sure if there is adequate time...

Anyway, in the meantime, here a few pictures of the highlights of the week, and the aforementioned video. Hopefully, I'll be back soon.

Question.

Does this lady look like a senior citizen to you?

I don't think so either. :-)

We celebrated my lovely Mom's birthday this past weekend. We spent the morning with my cousin's son's first birthday, saw my grandmother, and did a little shopping. Then, she, Dad, Jacob, and his friend Caroline, joined us Saturday afternoon for a little fun playing in the creek, looking for crawfish, building a dam, and splashing around. It was quite refreshing to be in that freezing water on a warm day. We had dinner afterward and enjoyed talking, eating, and listening to the AU game. I had to document her youthfulness in photos, and say what a treasure she is. Mom is a kind and encouraging woman of God, who has become a dearer friend to me as we have gotten older. She is also very wise and dependable - character traits that go back to her godliness I'm sure - and ones I would like to be known for as well.

Here are a few more photos from the creek and dinner.

Seven months old!

Elijah turned 7 months old last week. He has been growing like crazy and adding new tricks rapidly these days. He had already gotten in 4 teeth before last week, was sitting up well independently, and then started crawling. Today, he stood alone, for 10 seconds or more, repeatedly! He is so proud when he does, and we have to laugh. We had his first professional photos taken last week on his 7 month birthday, and he put on a show. He's such a sweetie, and the photographer loved how cooperative he is. You'd never know he'd had his pictures taken at home a few times...

God is so good to have given us this baby we longed for, and we try to celebrate his life every day, and the gift he is. We just cannot take him for granted. Our whole family constantly says how much joy he brings us. That's something that just confirms to me that the desire we all had individually, and as a family, for another member of our family was something God placed there, and fulfilled. We're so grateful. Now, as Abigail reminds us often, she needs a sister to even things out, and we do feel that someday God may open the door for us to adopt again. We're prayerfully hoping that can happen. For now, though, we're certainly enjoying our Elijah-bear. He is marvelously cuddly and sweet-natured, and I think that comes through pretty well in these photos!

A weekend of fireworks, fun, and faith

We had a fun Fourth of July and days following, and enjoyed a few different activities throughout the holiday weekend. James had a rough night at work Thursday night, so slept for a while Friday. Once he woke up, we joined the Wright family for delicious Full Moon BBQ, and then we went to the Helena Amphitheater to 'enjoy' Elvis afterwards. James had to return to work though, so didn't get to share that wonderful treat with us. (Poor man.):-) The fireworks following were much more fun, and our kids played throughout the evening, in the park, and ran and climbed for hours. It was so pleasant temperature-wise, which I can only attribute to having Jason, the meteorologist, in our presence. I've never known of such a mild July fourth.

On Saturday we celebrated my Dad's mom's birthday at her home. We split the food responsibilities up, and ate well, visited, made homemade ice cream, and had water balloon fights. It was pretty awesome. Mamaw is a precious grandmother and great-grandmother, and spending the afternoon there brought back lots of dear childhood memories.

Then, Sunday was a huge milestone for Shelby Crossings, as our church welcomed our new music minister. We've been on quite a journey for the last couple of years, and God has blessed us with someone who will be a tremendous asset to our faith family. Having been part of the worship minister search team, I'm especially relieved God literally sent us this man, and made our job so simple. We're so thankful to have Adam Cunningham and his family joining us, and leading us in worship. He is a talented, powerful singer and musician, and has two songs on frequent rotation on Christian radio. Their family is already moving down this next week from Nashville. It's an exciting time for us all, and we are praising God for answering our prayers in such a dramatic way!

I didn't take too many pictures during our fun activities, since I've been struggling with sinus crud and just didn't feel too perky. Here are some:

Happy Sounds

Some sweet summer things I've heard this week:

FAMILY---
- Isaac and Abigail saying, "Turn up the music!" in the van while DCB's "I Saw the Light" was playing

- Isaac and Elijah playing pat-a-cake, with lots of giggles at the "throw them in the pan!" part

- raindrops, for the FOURTH day in a row! YEA!

- Abigail tearing through the house to change from bathing suit to dance leotard because she 'just had to dance' in the living room right then

- slurping lime slushies from Sonic (1/2 price from 2-4 pm)

- James. He's off for a few days. :-)


---and FRIENDS:
- Zane, who loves Elijah, asking for 'my baby' on the phone

- Isaac talking to Benjamin, sharing the current plight of broken bones in the summer heat

- Drew and Abigail happily playing, like old times. Our little Drewbie is almost 5!

-

Fun photos from the weekend

Well, the rain caused our planned participation in the St. Patrick's Day parade to be canceled on Friday, but we still enjoyed the weekend. I had a lovely respite with sweet friends overnight Friday at R's parents' lake house, and then drove on over to my parents' Saturday, where Isaac and Abigail had already spent one night. We all stayed another night, and came home this evening. We enjoyed time at the Mundys' farm, and met their newest miniature donkey foal, and visited the H'ville gardens again, and had fun at Gramma and Granddaddy's house playing. It was a pleasant, special time, though Elijah's hysterical screaming in the van makes the traveling a little difficult. As sweet as he is all the rest of the time, I can hardly complain. But, I will gratefully wear the ear plugs my Mom lovingly gave me this evening. :-)

Love-ly moments

The past week has been filled with some sweet moments with friends and family. Unfortunately, Valentine's Day itself was somewhat odd, since we had several appointments, and James and Isaac had a Cub Scout meeting, and then James went to work, so we didn't really get to do anything special as a couple. It was a good reminder though, that we shouldn't just love our sweethearts on that day, since with three young kids, romantic dates are few and far between! I am thankful we both know that and accept it, and work hard to keep our relationship growing, because I know that doesn't happen by accident.

A good example of that give and take, and meeting each other where we are, is how James and Isaac had a special Cub Scout banquet the other night, and I had the opportunity to have a girls' night out. It was such a rare occasion for me, and since Elijah and I would've never survived the 3 hour banquet, I was so glad to escape and be with friends instead. We had coffee, a movie, and Mexican. It can hardly get better than that! We laughed, shared hard stuff, and celebrated the news of the beginning of the life of a new little one. It was remarkably special. Elijah was passed around and loved on too, so stayed very content throughout it all. James had the big kids, who enjoyed time with him, and so that was awesome.

During the week, Elijah began to coo and giggle more, and we just totally enjoyed that. I savored moments where Isaac talked to him, trying to get him to respond, and when Elijah lit up with a smile at his big brother, it was awesome! Abigail has been such a great helper, and loves being a little mama to her baby brother, and is eager to help soothe him if I'm cooking or something, and happily runs to grab a diaper or burp cloth whenever I need her. However, she says she doesn't plan on having babies herself. Actually, she says she's never leaving me, or getting married or anything. I told her we'll see about that at a later date. :-)

Our youth and college kids had a benefit dinner at church Wednesday night to raise money for students going on mission trips soon, so we really enjoyed their hard work at serving our meal and entertaining us, plus getting to visit with other couples while our kids were cared for in another building was great too.

We love holidays so much, and celebrating Valentine's is a favorite time for our family. James woke us up that morning with goodies - sweet cards and candy for everyone. We had Chick-Fil-A for breakfast with a group of friends from church, then had a Valentine party where the kids decorated their bags and received lots of treats and cards. We love having such a close-knit community to share life with. Our kids get along well, and it was a fun time for those of us who homeschool, and our kids didn't miss out on the fun valentine exchange I look back on fondly from my school days.

Groundhogs, bicycles, and teeth

I'm late posting but wanted to share fun things we did this past weekend. My Mom came on Friday to spend the night and visit, as well as help me accomplish a few things that seem to never get done. It was a special, fun time, and we could get used to her being here a lot more! Our adventures included Abi and Gramma practicing the waltz, Gramma assisting Isaac and Abigail with gymnastics skills, Gramma snuggling Elijah a lot, and reading, playing games, and giving the big kids lots of attention. We went to the mall that night, and with a gift certificate we had, created the groundhog just in time for his own holiday. Then on Saturday, Dad came down in time for Isaac's basketball game, and our boy played really well. He's listening to the coach and really understanding the game very well. He didn't score any point, but assisted in some, and passed well, hustling the whole game. After lunch with my aunt and cousin who were in town, Granddaddy took Isaac and Abigail to the park and they rode bikes a long time too, and then he napped with Elijah - too sweet. During their naptime, Mom and I worked on baby announcements, since I am determined to still do them, though folks may not get them till Elijah is 6 months old at the rate I'm going.... :-( We met Jacob for dinner, so all in all, it was a great, fun day with family.

Sunday morning began with Abigail determined to remove the tooth that has been driving her crazy, because of its tenacity at hanging on to her gums. It was fairly loose, but she wanted so badly to pull it and show Mrs. Shellyn at church her "window," that we HAD to get it out that morning. I helped very little, though I am a champion tooth puller with lots of experience from my teaching days, and she really did it herself. The tear you see at the end, is actually from cries of joy. She was thrilled and has reveled daily in her snaggle-toothness. Who in the world loses a top tooth first, I just want to know? Only this funny girl, as far as I've ever seen. James even appears to have lost a lot of his horror of dental-related issues, because she's so happy, it's hard to be squeamish when looking at her gap-toothed grin. I'm so proud of him.

1/8/08

Today is Elijah's due date. He's 3 1/2 weeks old. :-) I just love that he's already here and we've enjoyed getting to know him so much these last few weeks. He's such a part of our lives and so dear to us. It's hard to remember life before him, and it's awesome that he's fit right in so easily.

Last night I got about 3 1/2 -4 hours of sleep in a row, which was fabulous. He wakes to eat on average every 2 or so hours, so that was a nice, long stretch of rest for the somewhat weary. Then, today he's had a little bit longer awake times and has again gone longer periods between feedings. I don't know if this is just a one day thing, but it was fun to enjoy him being alert and then resting well in between. He's still super laidback when he is awake and is so rarely fussy. What a blessing!! Isaac and Abigail continue to help with him, eager to snuggle, pacify, talk to, and entertain. They have been amazing helpers and are so far, very patient and understanding that he takes a good bit of my time. James is home this week, so we're loving that Daddy can be here too, to enjoy "the whole family together," as Isaac says. :-)

Here are some more pictures - just of him looking cute, in his first Auburn outfit, and snuggling with various folks (and one cat). There are some taken by all four of us at different times, which shows our family's happiness in adoring and loving on him.

Goodbye 2007!

2007 was such a great year for our family, and most of the reasons why are summed up in our Christmas letter that was posted a couple of weeks back. We're so thankful to see another year completed with God's blessing our family in many ways, and for the most recent blessing of our little Elijah.

The quick update on life with our family of 5: Isaac and Abigail have been such great helpers and are big fans of their little brother. It's neat to see how quickly they are adapting to his presence. So far, we are doing well with having another person to consider. It's been nice to have the holidays following his birth, because we're not feeling pressured to do "normal" stuff like school and work for James, and have been able to settle in for these past 2 weeks with all of us at home. James had these 2 weeks off, and has been an encouragement and support like never before, and he's always been a tremendously helpful husband. I've jokingly said he'll be glad to go back to work though, because he's been so busy here at home! He's done laundry, fixed meals, cleaned the house, cared for the kids, played with them, bought our Christmas gifts, put the kids to bed, held me together when I was exhausted and hurting from surgery and the bladder infection, and through it all, has never spoken a word of negativity. I don't think I take him for granted normally, but recently I am just overwhelmed at the partner and friend he is to me, and the way he's led our family with such godly love and patience. I'm grateful beyond words, and get teary just imagining how I'd be doing right now if it wasn't for him!

We've also been so grateful for the meals and visits from friends from church. We've enjoyed good cooking from many of them, and still have more meals coming. This ministry has been a wonderful help as we can mark off our "to do" list planning dinner every single night right now, and have some time to adjust more slowly to the changes in our family.

We did a couple family things at the end of this week, driving to see my parents on Friday, and then spending Saturday afternoon with the Vines' clan. I was still struggling a good bit, because on top of recovering from the c-section, I ended up having a bladder infection. It was much more painful and caused more trouble than the actual surgery did! And, then my incision decided to be difficult and separate, so I had to treat it for several days to get it to heal properly. The good news is at least 30 pounds of pregnancy weight dropped off in the first 10 days of Elijah's life. I just have another 20-30 to go...

Finally, I woke up yesterday feeling much improved, and we were able to go to church as a family. It was such a blessing to be there and worship, singing "How great is our God," and looking at each other, realizing His greatness has really been evident in our lives lately. Seeing friends and getting hugs from so many who prayed for us throughout this month really meant so much.

James headed back into work tonight, and I am a bit apprehensive about caring for Elijah with feedings in the night and Abigail's possible waking and wanting me at the same time (some of you know her sleep issues and how she just started sleeping through the night this spring!) but I'm not feeling too stressed right now. I figure we'll just juggle it and figure it out as we go. Elijah has been incredibly easy so far, only waking on average twice in the night to eat, and I've told him how he is years ahead of his sister in that department. :-) Even if it doesn't last, I've at least enjoyed the benefits of several hours of sleep in a row for a little while.

Here are a few photos of our sweet little one. It's hard to limit myself with photographing him, because I'm so fascinated trying to get to know him, and notice everything about him that I want to take a zillion pictures daily, and just sit and stare at him. I know how quickly these days will fly by and I just want to capture his cute little features before they change. Most people recognize he looks a great deal like James and it's sweet to see his daddy's features in a tiny version. Oh, and check out the cheeks and for those who keep asking, he DOES have dimples like his sister and daddy. :-)

We're looking forward to what 2008 will bring and rejoice at God's mercy and goodness that have been so evident in our lives. We pray you feel the same and know Him!