only by grace

We're Home!

2011-08-23T19:59:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update - We're Home!!

The last day of packing up was sad for me but I had already spent time thinking about the transition. Brian and I were rushing around trying to get the Uhaul returned that I didn't even realize that we had left the old house for the last time together! Probably a good thing though. By that point, I was tired and ready to be done.

Several friends from his Bible study and our church family helped us move and that was such a blessing to us! PawPaw and Granny watched the kids for us a ton that week so we could get some necessary work done. We are still in the process of unpacking. After moving day, we had VBS week at church and then I took the kids to GA to visit family there. We are now here and slowly unpacking and arranging along with daily living. It seems to be a slow process. Maybe we'll be done by Christmas!?

From day one, it has felt like home to us. Although I was a little scared the first night - the lock on the back door wasn't working and I kept hearing strange noises. I was secretly hoping that Brian's parents would sleep here with us (sometimes it's crazy to think I'm the adult now)! We survived that night and Brian's dad fixed the lock so I'm good now. All of the kids love it and haven't looked back. We look forward to making many memories here!! Hopefully I'll share some those here sometime!

Our Last Day

2011-08-01T09:25:00.000-05:00

I really should be packing right now ... but I wanted to take a few minutes to record these last few thoughts here...

Last night we took the kids on the walk-through of the new house. I wasn't sure how they'd do with the move - especially Calvin with his need for familiarity and routine. But they were so excited and didn't want to leave. Calvin had already packed his favorite cars in his backpack so he was sad when we told him we were leaving to come back to this house! He can't wait to go!

At one point after we came back home, we all sat down together for one last family devotion in this house. During that time we shared memories we all had of our time here together. It was all I could do to hold it together... Even now every time I do something today I think, "This is the last time I (we) will do ..." Each thought brings tears to my eyes...

We have brought 5 precious babies home to this house ... lots of hours spent feeding, rocking and loving on those babies... first steps, first words, many, many firsts... I remember holding Coleman in his room just crying thinking of the blessing of having a child. I had no idea then how hard parenting would be ... many prayers for grace have been offered up here...

Most of the kids have learned to ride bikes here...

We've had hurricanes take out trees, mailboxes and our bedroom ceiling...

Many hours have been spent playing in this back yard...

There have been good times and bad, laughter and joy, as well tears of all kinds. There also have been many moments that I wish I could do over again ... but all of these things have molded us and shaped us. It has been encouraging to look back and see the evidence of God's grace in our lives ...

As one chapter ends, another begins and we know that we will be making new memories and pray for God's grace to continue to sustain us through this next season...

Our First Home!

2011-07-27T19:54:00.000-05:00

We purchased our first home back in May of 1999. This is a picture of the drawing they had in the realtor's office! We were so excited!


We were able to watch them build it from the ground up!

That's me back in the day!

Yes, that's Brian - he had hair then! ;)

This picture cracks me up! I was so excited about that bath tub - no jets but that was ok!

I didn't crop out the truck because that was Brian's pick-up that we had forever - like for almost 200,000 miles I think?! There's my little Sentra in the garage - the only car we could fit in there - the car that we outgrew pretty quickly! And look at those little teeny shrubs!

Here it is today! We closed in the garage to make a playroom/bonus room. Several trees are gone (thanks to several hurricanes), the shrubs have grown and thousands of memories have been made.

Just a few weeks ago we took the steps to purchase a bigger home for our growing family and now our time here is coming to a close. I didn't think I would be too sentimental about it but I was mistaken. Don't get me wrong - we are so excited about our new space and the new memories we will make there as a family but it is still sad to be leaving our first real home!

I hope to write down a few of our memories during the next few days so that we won't forget!

Ellerie's Prayer

2011-05-08T21:48:00.001-05:00

One of the most precious times of each day is praying with our children before they go to bed at night. Ellerie always brings a smile to our faces when we pray with her. My parents were in town a few weeks ago and my mom, Mimi, had the opportunity to pray with Ellerie at bed time. Here's how her prayer went:

"Dear God,

Thank you for my Mommy.
Thank you for my Daddy.
Thank you for my sister.
Thank you for my bruder...
And thank you for my bruder...
And ... thank you for my bruder..."
(She then looks up at Mimi at says, "I have 1 sister and 3 bruders...")

She's a mess!

Happy Birthday Baby Boy!

2011-03-27T22:33:00.001-05:00

Carter turns 2! March 13, 2011!

He doesn't like the candles though - he kept turning his head and wouldn't look at them!

On Tuesday we got together with family to celebrate Carter's 2nd year of life! He wanted a Woody cake!

Opening presents...

More toys...

Some new shades! He loves to wear sunglasses all the time!

Just love this precious boy! He has brought so much joy to our entire family. He loves Woody, McQueen, cars, trains, balls... He also loves to play with his siblings. I love the names he has picked for everyone so far. He calls Coleman 'Momo', Emmie is 'Memmie', Ellerie is 'Baby', and Calvin sounds different everytime, but now it sounds like 'Caca'.

We are thankful for this blessing in our lives and continually pray for him to know God's grace in his life. We love you Carter.

Spring Saturdays!

2011-03-20T00:43:00.000-05:00

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. After a long, cold winter the extra sunshine is so refreshing. It's amazing how the sun affects my mood so this extra hour of daylight is a blessing to me and probably to those around me as well! :)

A few weeks ago, we were trying to decide whether or not the kids would play soccer this spring. They played in the fall so the cost was going to be much cheaper since they already had their uniforms (thumbs up). They enjoy playing and we enjoy watching them as a family (thumbs up). But ... it takes up almost all day every Saturday! (thumbs down)

If we want to run or exercise on Saturday morning, then we have to get up really early to get it in. Then we pack up snacks, drinks, chairs, blankets and head to the field for a good chunk of the day. After thinking about it, Brian said he thought it would be good for us to take a break from organized sports this spring. I was a little hesitant at first but then I agreed that it would be a good break for all of us before the big kids try swim team this summer.

School is keeping us busy as we look toward the end of the year so I am looking forward to spending these spring Saturdays together as a family without having to always be somewhere at a certain time. I see lots of yard work and outside projects in our future, while the kids can run around and play.

Today was the first Saturday in a while where we weren't on a specific schedule. Brian and I both got a run in this morning after sleeping until 8:00. He also made pancakes and watched a movie with the kids. This afternoon he weeded some in the yard while Calvin played in the dirt. I caught up on coupons and got some grocery shopping done with a few of the other kids. Laundry kept moving all day. Just normal, simple things but at a more relaxing pace.

It was so nice and refreshing to be able to be laid back about our day ...I am looking forward to these spring Saturdays!

New ....

2011-01-29T23:22:00.002-05:00

I can’t believe that 2011 is already here. Not only is it already here, but January is quickly coming to a close. February already?

I guess it’s time to make my ‘resolutions’ for the new year, especially since 1/12 of it has already passed. Some of them are the same every year: exercise more, eat less, save more, spend less …you know how it goes.

There are so many things I could write as my goals for the year, but the easy way to sum them all up is with one word: intentional. I want to be intentional.

I want to be intentional in seeking the Lord.

I want to be intentional in loving my husband.

I want to be intentional in teaching my children (in school and in the Word).

I want to be intentional in serving my home.

I want to be intentional in my relationships.

I want to be intentional in being healthy.

I want to be intentional …

Christmas Traditions... Advent Devotions

2010-12-22T22:43:00.002-05:00

I just love Christmas ... it is probably my favorite holiday. It is such a special time to celebrate the birth of Christ and to make memories with our family. The past few years, we have intentionally tried to do special things each year ... making traditions and special times with one another. We pray that our children will remember these times, holding a special place in their hearts.

One of my favorite traditions is the advent devotions we do each night as a family. We have a special calendar and book that we read. The kids really like doing this together. The little ones are excited about participating this year and our bigger ones are taking more of a leadership role as they are reading the passages to their siblings. Love this time with them!

Thanksgiving Week...

2010-11-26T23:07:00.003-05:00

We spent the week of Thanksgiving in Georgia. It was fun to visit with all of the girl cousins from Macon, GA. The weather was warm, actually hot a few days. It was such a relaxing week spending time together with family. We are thankful for that time away and to make memories with friends and family.

Still Thankful...

2010-11-24T20:50:00.002-05:00

I am still thankful even though I haven't been posting...

I am thankful for this week away with my family. It is good to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and have an entire week of 'down' time. Brian gets to spend each day with us and we are loving every minute of it. We wake up a little late and snuggle in the bed with Carter (since he wakes up first). We get to eat breakfast, lunch and supper together - it's been so nice being together all day!

I am thankful for less laundry this week. There is a limited amount to wash and that is so great. I think maybe I should just get rid of the rest of our clothes when I get home! ;)

I am thankful for the warm weather this week. The kids have been able to play outside. I love sitting on the porch watching them laugh and play.

I am thankful for the tradition of our Thanksgiving dinner - especially the same dishes we have each year. I love the broccoli casserole, the carrot casserole, and the cornbread dressing. Mmmmm - can't wait until tomorrow.

I am thankful .... for this month of being thankful. It has been a blessing each day to remember how much I have to be thankful for.

Thankful... playing catch-up again...

2010-11-14T23:14:00.003-05:00

The end!! Time was 2:22...

Afterwards with my people - they were so excited to see me and I was excited to see them. That thought carried me the last mile! :)

So today I am thankful that the half marathon is over!! :) It was fun (in a different way). Not 'woo-hoo' fun but fun like an exciting, nerve-wracking, adrenaline-pumping sort of way. I actually felt good the entire time and enjoyed running the route around Richmond. I never thought I could do it and am proud that I did. Looking back, 3 out of the last 4 weekends, I ran double digits runs so needless to say, my legs are tired!

I am also thankful that my husband got all 5 kids up and dressed and to the CRAZY race site downtown. He's such a trooper! I am thankful he didn't have to hurt the big tall man who tried to step in front of the kids after they had waited patiently for a spot to 'open up' so they could see me! ;)

I am thankful that he let me take a nap yesterday and basically do nothing the rest of the day!

I am thankful that he rewarded me with a Chick-fil-A peppermint chocolate chip milkshake last night.

I am thankful that he let me sleep in until 9:00 this morning while he got up and fed the kids.

Yes, I am blessed!!

Thankful...

2010-11-12T23:34:00.003-05:00

Thankful today for ... our sweet homeschooling friends and the fun Thanksgiving feast we shared together today. Priceless memories of 20 or so little Pilgrims and Indians ... thankful for the blessing of sharing school times together with these friends!

Also thankful for the opportunity to go to our fellowship group Bible study tonight. Love studying the Word with other believers - and the best part is that I got to go with my best friend - and we were able to spend 45 minutes in the car talking on the way there and back! It's been a blessed day.

Thankful...

2010-11-11T15:46:00.002-05:00

This afternoon, I sat for just a few minutes...and it was great. I find myself rushing from thing to thing ... always thinking of the next task that needs to be done, the next thing that I can check off my list. It makes life seem overwhelming at times - and I know that I'm not cherishing time with my children.

One of those sweet things just came up to me and sat by me so ... I just sat with him. And I cuddled with him and kissed his sweet head, knowing that it wouldn't be long before he ran off to play some more. What a gift - to love on him ... even if just for a minute.

I know I need to find more minutes in each day to do just that. If there's one thing I've learned recently, it's that the list never gets done, there's always more to do ... so why rush so hard and so fast to complete it all and miss the most important things right in front of me?

Thankful ...

2010-11-10T21:28:00.001-05:00

Thankful that I read this quote today:

The cross must be my only story. I meditate today on what it looks like at each turn of my day to rest in its shadow.

Go read this blog for more truths like this ... prepare to be wowed!!

Thankful...I Have Some Catching Up to Do...

2010-11-10T21:06:00.004-05:00

We are so thankful for the parents and grandparents in our lives! We are blessed that our children can know their grandparents and that their grandparents also love the Lord. Brian's parents live in the same town as us (what a blessing)! It is so special to be able to share our lives with them and to have special 'babysitter's who truly love our kids!

My parents live in Georgia but make an effort to visit several times a year while we also plan several trips down to see them as well. It's nice to get concentrated visits with them and see them love on their grandkids! We cram in as much fun as possible whenever we have visits.

We know that it is a rare thing for kids to know and love both sets of grandparents! We treasure that blessing and thank God for it so often. We love you all!

Thankful...

2010-11-06T20:59:00.004-05:00

Today I am thankful the the little things: being able to run after the sun comes up, a husband that cooks pancakes for everyone on Saturday mornings (and today he unloaded and loaded the dishwasher too), watching my kids laugh and play together this morning, a warm and cozy home, laughing with my husband, and just being together as a family today...

Running Update!

2010-11-06T20:24:00.002-05:00

The half marathon is next Saturday so by this time next week, I'll be done (probably in more ways than one). But I think I am actually getting a little excited.

The training plan I have been following had my longest run at 10 miles. But I have found that for me, half the battle in running is mental. I know some people say "if you can run 10 miles, you can run 13." But for me, I feel like 'if I can run 10, then I can run 10.' So I was hoping to try and do a 10-mile and a 12-mile run before the race.

A couple of weeks ago I did a 10-miler and it went better than I thought it would. Last week, I did my first 12-miler! I just decided to take it one mile at a time, trying not to think about how much farther I had to go. It went pretty good for the majority of it - but I did feel like I was slowing down on the 11th mile and then the 12th mile really hurt - pain in muscles that had never hurt before. I decided to just listen to my music and take it slow - my goal was just to keep going without stopping.

I finally made it and was sooo glad to walk again. I walked it out some and then got in the car to head home - then I found out really quickly that I hadn't walked it out enough! My calves started just burning like fire and my calves had never ever hurt after running before. I called Kim when I got home and she told me to ice them so I did the ice bath thing and popped motrin and that helped tremendously.

I'm sure I will get sore at the end next weekend but I feel better just mentally knowing that I have run 12 miles before and just have to go a little bit further this time. Hopefully adrenalin and the sight of the finish line will help me do that last mile!

Thankful for Surprises...

2010-11-03T21:13:00.006-05:00

This past weekend we had the opportunity to surprise my parents for Halloween. They live about 11 hours away in Georgia and had no idea we were coming! We showed up at their door with the kids dressed in their costumes saying 'trick or treat'!

It was worth the ride just to see their faces! It was one of the first times my Mom didn't know what to say! ;)

The crew getting ready to head out - for a 3 hour candy collection!! (We had no idea)!

I think they were still in shock at this point.

It was fun for the kids to ride in the back of the car- but it got tiring lifting the littles in and out of the car - so I offered to drive and Brian did all the lifting (what a man)!

One of the many houses...One house left a big bowl out even though they weren't home...On Sunday evening, we got to go to the Fall Festival at Mom and Dad's church. I think Mom told everyone she saw the story of the weekend! Cute to see how excited they were.

The kids loved playing on the church playground.

Free pony rides...

Yee-haw Larry Boy!!

Needless to say, it was a whirlwind of a weekend and I think we are still recovering from traveling 22 hours within 3 days but it was so fun and such a great memory. I am thankful that I had a husband who thought of doing this and then sacrificed to make it happen!

Thankfulness...

2010-11-02T14:29:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again to focus on Thanksgiving (thanks for the reminder Kelly and Kim). (I'm a day behind getting started...)

Today I am thankful for freedom ...

freedom to vote...

freedom to speak ...

freedom to believe in God...

freedom to live our lives for His glory... (without persecution)

freedom to worship with other believers ...

I often take these freedoms (and many more) for granted. Today I am going to vote and let my voice be heard, all the while trusting in God's sovereignty over all things.

Running...

2010-10-20T20:35:00.003-05:00

I started back running about a year ago. Running is a term I use loosely, because I'm not really a runner. I mean, I go out and I run, but I still don't feel like a runner. I'm still not very fast but my goal is to just go the distance without stopping.

Anyway, I decided a few months back that I would 'maybe' do the Richmond Half Marathon in November. I said 'maybe' because I wanted to leave the door open for me to back out of it. So I ran through the summer (which is miserable in the heat and humidity) and did a few races the past couple of months.

A few weeks ago, I paid my money and signed up for the half! I can't believe that I am actually paying someone money, a huge chunk of money, to torture myself for 13.1 miles. But since the money is paid, there is no backing out now!

Training has been going pretty good - the distance has increased now. This is my second 20-mile week so we'll see how I feel after Friday morning. I am sort of enjoying it - I really like how I feel after I'm done running but I am starting to enjoy other parts of it as well. I am not normally a morning person so I have been working hard to get my tired self out of the bed at the crack of dawn (actually before the crack of dawn). I listen to my praise music and try to use that time to think and pray. It's been good for me to have that time in the mornings.

So the half is coming up soon - I still wonder if I can do that many miles. But I have a friend who just did her first half (go Kelly) and she is giving me some inspiration!

Until then, the training continues...

An Amazing Date Night

2010-10-09T21:20:00.003-05:00

Sunday night a week ago Brian and I were able to sneak away for a few hours for a date (thanks for watching the kids Granny and PawPaw)! We headed to eat a quick dinner at one of my favorite places: Chipotle! I really enjoyed sitting down to eat with Brian and being able to talk together for a few minutes.

After dinner we went to see Matthew Smith in concert at a local church. We thought it may be crowded so we got there early to get good seats. But it turns out that no one else was early - so we had a few more moments to chat while we waited on everyone else to come to the concert.

The concert was such an incredible worship experience. Matthew Smith's website says that he is "an East Nashville singer-songwriter who writes brand new music to centuries-old hymn texts." He is also involved with Indelible Grace Music.

I know that many people in churches cringe when they think of putting 'new' music to the old, ancient hymns. But I encourage people to read more at the Indelible Grace website and to listen to some of the songs. "It was common for people to compose new music for each generation for many of the hymns that they loved. There is no rule that says each hymn can only have one musical setting, and in fact, hymnals are designed for you to be able to mix and match words and music -- that's why they have a metrical index. But unfortunately, we lost this tradition and got stuck in a more modern traditionalism of associating one particular tune with one particular hymn ... Our goal is not change for change's sake, but to rekindle a love of hymns and to invite many who would never associate rich passion with hymns to actually read the words." (Indelible Grace website)

It was such an encouraging and worshipful concert. I am thankful for the incredible music we were able to experience. Thanks for planning this special evening, Brian!

Sweet fellowship...

2010-09-30T15:07:00.002-05:00

We have been a part of our church family for almost 2 years now. The church has outgrown its building so there is no adult Sunday School time, making it difficult to get to know people. I had Carter not long after we started attending Grace so that added to the difficulty of getting to know people. I am just in a busy season with many young children so it has taken much longer to get to know other believers in this body.

Our church provides fellowship groups for its members/attenders which provides a time of fellowship and bible study for most adults. We tried a few groups last year but none of them really worked out. Some of the groups had something for kids, some of the groups didn't ... but most of them weren't close to our side of town anyway. We ended up just waiting to try to find a group this Fall.

Well, we finally found a group! We decided that we would get a sitter for our kids so that it would be a time for Brian and I to go to bible study together and be able to totally focus on the study and talking to people. At this point, if we took our kids, I would either be helping watch them or totally distracted thinking of them while someone else watched them... so since we meet just twice a month, this is our plan for now: bible time for Mom and Dad!

Now my favorite part is the teacher: Brian! He is leading us through the book of Hebrews. He is so gifted as a teacher and it has been so long since I've been able to sit under his teaching. It was so refreshing to listen to the Word being taught and to do that in an intimate setting with other believers. I am thankful for the old friends there with us and I look forward to the new friendships we have begun.

Can't wait for our next fellowship group meeting!

Back to School

2010-09-21T14:45:00.001-05:00

Where has the time gone? I don't know but the calendar tells me that summer has ended ... that's fine because my favorite season is fall but I will have to say I am going to miss summer. We had a summer full of fun with friends and family. We went to the pool all the time, rode bikes and ate ice cream cones (although not at the same time), saw free movies, visited with family, and so much more. It wasn't as slow (or relaxing) as I would have liked but we still made so many special memories.

So ...time moves on and we have said 'goodbye' to the summer of 2010! We have jumped into school and our fall activities with both feet. The days are starting earlier and they seem to be lasting longer - but I find that it is such a 'good' busy.

I have been looking forward to school this year with the kids. Coleman is 4th grade already! Emmie is right behind him in 3rd and Calvin is in Kindergarten. Ellerie loves to do school with Calvin while also trying to mother Carter all day long. And Carter - well he just tears up the house every time I turn around - but at least he's cute!

So ... goodbye summer and hello fall!

Just a Few Minutes Makes a Big Difference...

2010-08-29T21:59:00.003-05:00

Summer has been so much fun but so very busy. The craziness of being busy these past few months spilled over into my marriage. Although Brian and I were together a lot with the family, we weren't intentional with much of that time.

A few weeks ago, we started trying to take a few minutes each night (well, at least most nights) and chat together. We talk about what's going on that week and how to pray for each other. It has been so good - when we do it. Hopefully we will continue to be disciplined in this.

One of the other things we have been doing during some of these chats is talking about the questions listed here. Ideally, you discuss these over a date night, but our last date night was spent painting the kids bedrooms, so we are taking it just a few questions at a time. It's not that our marriage is bad but we know it can be better. It has been so encouraging to talk to one another about our marriage and how God can help us make it so much better - for His glory!

Coupon Learning..

2010-08-25T05:26:00.003-05:00

Back in March, I decided to learn more about coupons. I would set a budget each month for groceries but I would always seemed to go over that limit! I needed to do something to help out our budget so I spent some time researching coupons.

The first couple of months I stayed on target with my budget. I was a little disappointed but then I remembered how much I had been going over each month - so this was a small start in savings.

This past month of August was the best month so far in this coupon venture. I tried to be diligent and intentional in my grocery spending and I actually came in $150 under budget!! Couponing does take time and research but they pay-off is totally worth it!

When I decided to start doing coupons, I knew I needed to spend time learning about the whole process. So I spent a couple of months reading other blogs and websites. Here are a few of my favorites:

Mommy Snacks - Her site has great strategies for savings and walks you through step-by-step in how to get started.

Mojo Savings - This site updates all the time with great deals.

Money Saving Mom - Great ideas about savings and living frugally.

There are several more sites I use that I will try and list later. It's easy to get started and to start trimming you budget!

Diaper Deal!

2010-08-11T21:42:00.002-05:00

I haven't been doing too many coupon deals this week - we have had VBS every night so it has been a busy week... but I did read about a great diaper deal at Amazon this week - and they arrive on my doorstep!

Go read more about the deal at Babycheapskate. You can choose the subscribe and save to get 30% off (I just need to remember and cancel after I get my diapers) and then stack more coupons found in Parent's magazine!

Here's Your Chance - Kroger This Week!!!

2010-08-03T13:41:00.005-05:00

O.K - this is a great way to get started couponing or just to take advantage of these deals! Kroger is having a 50% off sale of select General Mills items from Wednesday - Saturday. Then use manufacturer coupons on top of that sale and you have a good deal. It's even better if you have a $ .50 coupon for an item because Kroger doubles their coupons up to $ .50, meaning you take off another $1 instead of just $ .50.

The items on sale this week include: (see pics above) Betty Crocker fruit snacks, General Mills Cereal, Fiber One Chewy Bars, Quaker Cereal, Quaker Instant Oatmeal, and Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters.

Haven't been cutting coupons in Sunday papers yet? No worries! Just go to SmartSource or Coupons.com and print out your coupons. There are several items on there that are included in the sale. You can usually print up to 2 coupons per computer that you have.

I went today and got some good deals on snacks and a little more cereal!

Deal of the Day...

2010-08-03T11:08:00.002-05:00

This deal was similar to the cereal deal... Buy 4 (of certain ones) and get a 5th FREE! Then I had 2 Target coupons for $1/2 boxes and 2 manufacturer coupons for $1/2. So the total for 5 boxes of 6-pack PopTarts was $6 or around $ .88.

So, I think we're set for PopTarts and Cereal for this month at the very least...

Coupon Deals This Week!!

2010-08-02T22:18:00.003-05:00

This was a sweet deal at Target tonight! They have a special buy 4 get the 5th free on certain Kellogg's cereal. They are also 2 for $5. So that = 4/$10, well really 5/$10 since the 5th one is free. The great thing about Target is they will let you use a Target coupon (you can only use at Target) AND a manufacturer coupon (that you can use anywhere) on the same item - called 'stacking' your coupons. So I had 2 $1/2 (meaning $1 off of 2 boxes) Target coupon and 2 $1/2 manufacturer coupons.
So I got the 5 boxes of cereal for $6!! That is about $ .85 each!

You can find manufacturer coupons in the Sunday papers and online and you can find Target coupons here.

I got these tonight at Kroger for $ .24! That's only tax I think. They were on sale for 2.50 each. I had a coupon that was BOGO (Buy One Get One Free). When you use a BOGO then you can also use another manufacturer coupon with that. They took off $3 for the BOGO price. Then I had a $2/2 (meaning it takes $2 off when you buy 2). Therefore it took off $5, leaving me just the tax to pay! Nice for Brian's favorite!

Check out your Kroger this week! I got these last night for around $3. Kroger is having a Proctor and Gamble sale this week, like last week. Buy 4 items get $4 off! Then add in your coupons and you get a deal! For example, those Gillette body washes above were on sale for $2.99 BUT if you bought 4 of anything in the P&G sale, they ended up being just $1.99. Then I had a coupon for $2 off a Gillette body wash so those ended up being FREE!! The saving creams were around
$ .50 and the conditioners around $ .50 too!

I have just gotten going on this couponing thing and hope to learn more. I thought I would blog here about what I am learning and maybe others can learn with me. I am really trying to cut our grocery budget down to help serve our family

Waco Weavers Visit Virginia

2010-07-13T15:16:00.006-05:00

My brother and his family came to visit us at the end of June. We usually meet up and visit at my parents house in GA but they decided to do an east coast road trip this summer. So we went to visit Williamsburg on one of the hottest days in VA ever! Although we were hot, we all had a great time!

Playing in the jail...

I was glad for a snack break!

Calvin followed Joel around and wanted to hold his hand...

In the ballroom...

After a long day...

Funny Uncle Joel and Calvin

Since it was so hot during their visit, we made the next day a POOL day!
This is Becca and Ellerie playing together.

Becca and Carter

Joel teaching Coleman how to swim some laps...

Emmie and Anna...

That night we had a concert...

Then another pool day!

Finished off with a pedicure!!

It was so fun to have them come visit us and get to spend some quality time with them. We love you guys and miss you!

Homeschooling Q and A

2010-06-14T09:57:00.001-05:00

Kim is doing a homeschool Q and A. Jump on over to her blog and ask some questions in the comments.

Vacation - Part 2 - Beach Fun!

2010-06-12T23:23:00.008-05:00

Emmie and Jenny (Brian's cousin)

Ellerie just loved playing in the sand...

Brian led the way in building a huge sand castle ... sadly, I forgot to get a pic of the finished product...

Calvin was helping too...

Barefoot Landing - one of our annual traditions as well...

We always love to get a pic here too...

Calvin and Ellerie's turn...

The funny mirrors!

Coleman and Ellerie on the cow...

Carter, Calvin and Emmie

An attempt at a family shot - don't want to even talk about the weather and what it did to my hair! Frizzy is all I can say!

Another attempt...

An attempt with everyone (except Jenny, Shawn, Gwen and Casey's parents)

PawPaw and Granny with the grandkids - at least everyone is IN the picture!

Whew! See why vacation was so tiring? ;) And this is just at the end of the day on Tuesday - 3 more full days!!

Vacation - Part 1 - Expectations!

2010-06-09T20:49:00.007-05:00

This was Carter's first walk on the beach! (Last year he went out some but was either in his car seat or my arms). He was so excited to walk on the sand. He walked all over all week long.

So sweet holding Daddy's hand.

Carter and PawPaw taking a break...

Carter and PawPaw taking a walk...

...and he's still walking...

Ella, Ellerie and Carter playing in the sand - a fun activity during the week. (And it was in the shade).

What you doing Mom? (He wasn't too big on the hat)!

Later that afternoon, we went to play Putt-Putt (an annual tradition for us). Carter had fun trying to get everyone's ball!

"I finally got it!"

Emmie making a precise shot (not really-we posed it to get the shot)!

Coleman watching the ball after following through (really- we didn't have to pose it).

Ellerie hitting the ball in her own special way! Go girl!

Calvin concentrating on his shot. (Really just taking a break from his rock climbing and water adventures).

Dad joining Calvin on his rock climbing adventure for a picture.

Lastly, that evening (yes, this was all the first day) we went to Krispy Kreme (another annual tradition).

Carter's face after his first bite of a warm, glazed doughnut! I think he likes it! You should have seen him drinking the chocolate milk!

Hunter, Calvin and Coleman eating their snack. Notice the yummy doughnuts passing by in the background! My mouth is watering even now!

Emmie is waiting so patiently for hers!

Coleman's waiting for his milk (he doesn't like doughnuts, crazy I know!) He is a little red from boogey boarding ALL DAY!

Ellerie - either she is tired of waiting for hers or Daddy was trying to make her laugh and she didn't think he was being very funny!

This is just what we did on Sunday, our first full day at Myrtle Beach! Let's just say we crammed a whole-lotta-fun into vacation week. So much fun that I'm still worn out and still recovering!

But it was such an incredible week. Brian and I knew ahead of time that we would be tired but that we would work hard to ensure that our kids would have a fun, memorable vacation. We also talked with the kids ahead of time about expectations for the week. We told them that they may not always get to do their first choice of an activity every day but that we can always have fun at whatever we do - the point would be to enjoy our time as a family no matter what we were doing.

It was good for me to talk about expectations ahead of time too. I knew that I would be 'working' alot since feeding people, laundering for those sweet people, and cleaning for those same sweet people (who bring alot of sand into the condo) don't stop on vacation and my heart was totally fine with that. I mean, hey, it is much more fun to clean and do laundry at the beach! But my sweet husband helped ensure that I had some relaxing times too. I was able to run several mornings by myself and sit out on the beach several afternoons just watching the big kids play while the little ones rested. We were even able to sneak out for a special dinner alone the last night while Granny watched the kids for us!

I am thankful we had this time to get away and relax - it was such a blessing for us and our kids! More pics to come!

It's That Time of Year Again...

2010-05-26T20:58:00.003-05:00

Vacation! It's coming! I can't believe it's that time of year again! We've finished school, are making lists, packing, and getting our toenails painted tomorrow (well, just the girls are doing that last part)! But one of the most important parts of our preparation the last few years has been to read and review CJ Mahaney's posts about serving your family on vacation.

It is so helpful to remind myself that our goal is to serve our family during this time! Last year I went with a nursing 2-month old and knew that it may not be the most 'fun' vacation for me but I prepared my heart to serve and that mindset helped me so much during that week. (And the fact that my husband served me as well).

The best part is that we are all together for vacation! I love spending time with my husband and kids and we get to do that for 9 days. This intentional time away is good for my soul! I will still be preparing food, washing clothes, and cleaning but I get to step out the door to the pool and the beach!

My prayer is that Brian and I will continue to point one another towards the cross and that we can exhibit Christlike service to our family this coming week!

Happy Birthday Ellerie!

2010-04-24T19:51:00.007-05:00

Another birthday to celebrate around here! I was actually blogging some when Ellerie was born and her birth story is here. (I just re-read that myself and I am so glad I wrote that down. I need to do that with all of the kids before I forget everything!)

It is neat to have Ellerie and Coleman have a birthday so close together. They have had their parties together the last couple of years and that has been a special experience, not to mention it makes it easier on me!

Ellerie entered our lives 3 years ago and we have all been charmed by her ever since! She is so sweet and tender, but she also has a stubborn streak (I'll let you guess where she gets that from), which she usually reserves just for us. She loves to be silly and make us laugh. She loves to play with her babies and her stuffed animals.

We pray God continues to keep her heart tender towards him and that we would be faithful to teach her about His ways!

Just a few months old...

Curls already....

December 2007 - Which one is the real baby doll?

April 2008 - First birthday

Summer 2008

Fall 2008

December 2008

March 2009 - Her turn to be a big sister - and she loves that role!

April 2009 - Ellerie turns 2!

Summer 2009

November 2009

March 2010 - a sweet one of her laughing!

March 2010 - she's sneaking her hand in PawPaw's coat for a tootsie roll...

March 2010

And now she's 3! Oh my! I just can't believe it. Where does the time go? Lord, help us be faithful in pointing her towards you!

Happy Birthday Coleman!

2010-04-23T20:10:00.007-05:00

(Forgive me as I stroll down memory lane...) Nine years ago today ... our lives changed forever ... we became parents! Little did we know the journey God had in store for us. I never knew I would be so tired!! But I do remember just crying when I would rock little Coleman to sleep (because he was my first and I actually had time to do that) and cry just because I was so thankful that God had given us this sweet blessing!

And it's been wonderful ... and it's been hard. Having children revealed to me just how selfish my sinful heart was (and still is). It has been a sanctifying process for me in many ways. And poor Coleman - he was first and we had no idea what we were doing in so many ways! We continually pray that God's grace protects him from our mistakes! ;)

He has grown into such a sweet and compassionate young man. He loves his little brothers and sisters fiercely! He has a heart for God and His Word. We just pray that the Lord continually speaks to his heart and draws Coleman to Himself in a saving way. I pray for God's grace to continue to sustain as we seek to navigate the next 9 years!

3 months old

6 months old (and Daddy still had hair)

His first birthday and that sweet crooked smile he always did at that age!

Welcoming his first baby sister, Emmie!

His 2nd birthday!

December 2003

His 3rd birthday cake - couldn't find a digital pic of him though!

Welcoming baby brother Calvin!

Coleman turns 4.

Coleman pretending he is in the Larry Mobile... such a creative mind!

5th Birthday - with a Thomas cake!

September 2006 - First day of Kindergarten!

April 2007 - turning 6

April 2007 - welcoming baby sister Ellerie, one day after his birthday!

September 2007 - First Grade

April 2008 - 7 years old!

September 2008 - Second Grade

March 2009 - welcoming the newest blessing - sweet Carter!

April 2009 - Coleman turns 8!!

Rocking sweet Carter to sleep - such a good big brother!

Birthday 2010 - finally a bike that fits him!

April 2010! Big Boy turns 9!! Lord, use him for your glory!

Sweet Birthday...

2010-04-14T19:37:00.003-05:00

For my birthday last week, sweet Emmie wanted to decorate my cake. So Granny helped her make and decorate my cake.

The proud baker ... has such a sweet heart!

A few of my gifts ... my family took me out to dinner so I didn't have to cook! It was a special day! Thanks everyone!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T20:31:00.002-05:00

Thankful for the cross!
Thankful for my sweet family!

My Baby is One!!!

2010-03-24T21:25:00.009-05:00

I can't believe that Carter is 1!!

He had a basketball cake since he was born during March Madness!

Don't you just love this precious face? This sweet baby of ours has captured all of our hearts!

Why is everyone staring at me and singing?

What do I do with this?

(I tried to stick some icing in his mouth) Whatcha doin Mom?

Let me try to touch it...

Maybe I can touch it with my hand...

Let me try the spoon again...

Ok - it's not hurting me...

Hey - this isn't so bad!!

This is good stuff!!!

Taking a ride after the birthday bath!!

Such a precious boy! Thankful for this blessing and looking forward to the next year with him!

What We've Been Up To...

2010-02-24T22:25:00.002-05:00

A little over a month ago, Brian mentioned that we order the P90X workout DVD's to do together. It basically went in one ear and out the other. Then the next Sunday I was home with a sick baby and happened to see a P90X infomercial. Hmmmmm. One of Brian's co-workers had the DVD set and offered to let us use them to see if we liked it before we bought it.

Little did I know what I was doing!! So it's been a busy month - with doing these DVD's AND trying to run and train for the 10K at the end of March. But I will have to say that I am enjoying it! Brian and I used to work out together a lot before we had kids. Now we're not usually doing the workouts at the same time each day but it's neat to know we're doing the same workouts and it pushes me to keep going even when it's hard.

The first month was good. It helped me lose a few baby pounds that I have been trying to lose - hopefully the second month will do a little more. (It sure is much easier, and more fun, to put on the 'baby' weight then to take it off)!

Anyway, I'll try to write more about the workouts and experience as we go along!

Daddy

2010-01-22T07:50:00.002-05:00

On January 1 we took a vacation to Georgia. It was a great visit because we were able to get to spend time with both of my brothers' families. We don't get to see them very often so it was great to have a few days together to catch up.

But one of the best things about vacation is getting to have Daddy with us all day every day - for 10 days straight! I think we all get a little spoiled. We came back from GA and Brian was home with us for a couple of days before he had to head back to work. I went in to Ellerie's room to wake her up on that first Monday morning when he went back to work.

She sat up and was pointing in the hallway talking very quietly. Sometimes she talks so quietly so I couldn't understand what she was saying. I thought maybe she was scared of the big humidifier we had put out in the hallway but I soon figured out that wasn't it. Then I finally realized what she was saying. She was asking for "Da-Eee".

I told her that he wasn't home this morning because he had gone to work. She said, 'No he not at work, he's at da house - he's seepin.' I told her that he wasn't home but that he would come see her after work. She looked at me so pitifully - her big eyes filled with tears - and her little lips started to quiver - and she said again 'no -he not at work...'

Love that baby girl!

Thanksgiving...

2009-12-24T08:56:00.005-05:00

Calvin at the playground

Sliding

Carter LOVED his first time on the swing

Ellerie had fun too..

Ellerie and cousin Emily talking it up at lunch

Emily and PCat with Carter

Emmie, Caroline and Ellerie

Emmie and Coleman did a piano performance for Ms. Fran

Ms. Fran reading to Ellerie...Ms. Fran is our buddy!

Mimi and Ellerie at lunch

Mac and Carter

I thought I would post some pics of Thanksgiving week before Christmas - wow - just in the nick of time! This poor little blog has been so neglected lately, but maybe after the new year I'll turn over a new leaf...

We spent the week down in Georgia and the weather was amazing! It was good to get away from work for a week and relax! We were able to spend some time with Ms. Fran, a precious older woman who is like family to us. John and his girls were able to visit for a short time but we look forward to seeing them more next week!!

Catching Up

2009-12-11T23:58:00.003-05:00

Well, so I didn't finish all the days of Thanksgiving but I did give it a try! It was nice to focus on the many, many things that I have to be thankful for!

The pictures above are of sweet baby Carter! He just look so precious in that little hospital gown - I couldn't resist taking a picture. Plus the nurses gave him that cute little bear - and he loved chewing on it.

Carter was wearing that gown yesterday because he had to have his circumcision. My ob was out-of-town during my early delivery (nerve of him going on a mission trip and missing my delivery) and the on-call ob didn't think she could do the circ because he was little. My pediatrician thought he was perfectly fine for the procedure but encouraged us to do it later with a urologist. She was right. You don't want someone cutting on something like that if they're unsure about it!

So we had to wait until he was bigger since they put him under for the procedure. He was such a trooper and did great. He was a little agitated and disoriented while waking up from the anesthesia but it didn't take long for him to return to being his happy self! So far, he is healing great but the wound care makes me a little queasy! Good thing Dad has been around to help with that!

The funniest part of yesterday was when the surgeon was talking with us beforehand. He actually used the word 'talleywacker'! Should I have said that on my blog? Anyway, that was funny!!

Thankful it's over and the he's doing great!

Thankful... Day 26

2009-11-26T20:55:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful that we were able to spend Thanksgiving with some of our family and that no on got sick at all this year! This is probably the first time in several years that we haven't contracted some sort of virus around this holiday. I probably shouldn't have even typed that ...

Brian and I were talking today and we are both thankful that our children are able to know both sets of grandparents! All of our parents bring such joy to our children and it is a blessing to see these relationships happen. I pray for them to have many more years with Mimi, Daddy Mac, PawPaw and Granny! Thanks to all of you for loving us and our babies so well. We are blessed by all of you!

Thankful ... day 25

2009-11-25T22:37:00.003-05:00

I don't live close to my brothers so our families don't often get to see one another. Today I am thankful that we got to spend time with my younger brother and his family. We were able to spend time together last night and today through lunch. It has been almost a year since we've seen them - way too long. But they finally got to meet sweet baby Carter and all of the kids had a blast (a loud blast) playing together! We're looking forward to being able to spend time with them again after Christmas and then we will also get to see my older brother and his family!

Today I am also thankful for that amazing 1 hour and 20 minute nap I got!!!

Thankful ... day 24

2009-11-25T22:35:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful that my brother-in-law (Brian's sister's husband) had a successful surgery today. Praying for a quick recovery for him. We are so thankful for all of our family!

Thankful ... Day 23

2009-11-23T21:51:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for my new hair! It's not a dramatic difference but it was a treat to get a cut and color that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Linda has cut my hair since I was a little girl and she knows how to cut curly hair!! And she also made me a bow for my Christmas wreath!! Can't wait to get home and put it up!

Thankful ... Day 22

2009-11-23T21:45:00.002-05:00

I am thankful today for a special Sunday with family. We were able to sleep in a little and all get ready for church together. (OK, we actually slept a little too much since we ended up getting to church late, but oh well).

Then we ate lunch at a country buffet - all-you-can-eat artery-clogging Southern food!!

I am thankful for special days with the family!

Thankful ... Day 21

2009-11-21T00:24:00.001-05:00

Thankful that today we are heading to south GA and warm temperatures for Thanksgiving week! Now I need to go to bed and get a little sleep before we start our vacation week. Dreaming of cornbread dressing, broccoli casserole, etc!! YUM!

Thankful ... Day 20

2009-11-20T21:50:00.005-05:00

Carter! Such a blessing to us. He has brought so much joy to all of us! All of the kids think he is 'their' baby! There is always someone to talk to him, play with him and entertain him. I am thankful that he has been such a good baby and that he lets me get plenty of rest. I love waking up to his big smile every morning!!

Thankful ... Day 19

2009-11-20T21:42:00.002-05:00

Ellerie - the sweetest spirit. She was such a good baby - so easy going, so sweet. She still is! She always brings a smile to us every day. I just love to hear her talk - and she does that all the time. And I am so proud of her for basically potty-training herself this past month! Yeah Ellerie - we love you baby girl!

Thanksgiving ... Day 18

2009-11-20T21:38:00.003-05:00

Calvin - so thankful for this boy! He definitely keeps me on my toes but all of the hugs, kisses, and cuddles make up for that. He has such a sweetness about him and we are so proud of the progress that he is making this year. Our family would not be the same without him!

Thankful ... Day 17

2009-11-17T22:10:00.003-05:00

Emmie - sweet Emmie - our first girl. We are so thankful for the smile she brings to our hearts each day. She is so thoughtful and loving with everyone. She has been such a huge help at home with her newest little brother! We pray that she grows into a woman who loves the Lord with all her heart.

Thankful ... Day 16

2009-11-16T22:11:00.003-05:00

So thankful for this sweet boy!! He has such a tender heart and a strong spirit. We are thankful for the continuous joy he brings us each day. He is such a good big brother to all his siblings. I can't believe how fast he is growing. I pray for his heart to always be tender and sensitive to God's leading...

Thankful ... Day 15

2009-11-15T22:43:00.002-05:00

I am thankful that we are going on vacation next week ... so need it!!

Thankful ... Day 14

2009-11-15T22:40:00.002-05:00

So, I forgot to post this yesterday... I am thankful today that I ran in the 8K race. I was able to complete the race without stopping and with a decent time - for someone who has only been running a couple of months and had a baby 8 months ago.

After Ellerie, I started running some and really enjoyed it, or well I enjoyed how I felt when I was done. But then I got pregnant with Carter and the running stopped! So I started up again a couple of months ago and hope to continue it for a while.

Thankful ... Day 13

2009-11-13T21:36:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for the way Brian loves the LORD! He can only love me and the children the way that he does because of his love for the Lord. He has a deep passion to know God more and to see others grow in the same way. Thank you Brian for being an example to me in you passion for God!

Thankful ... Day 12

2009-11-12T21:55:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for the way Brian loves me! He has such a kind and loving heart and is my best friend. He cares deeply about me and my walk with the Lord. He takes initiative in pointing me towards Christ. He extends me mercy and grace to me when I often fall short. I am thankful to be walking through life with him as we seek to honor the Lord together!

Thankful ... Day 11

2009-11-11T22:27:00.003-05:00

Daddy and Coleman - 2001

Daddy and Emmie - 2002

Daddy and Calvin - 2004

Daddy and Ellerie - 2007

Daddy and Carter - 2009

Today I am thankful for the way Brian loves our children. He comes each day and jumps right in with them: playing, laughing, caring. I love to watch him love our children. I remember the first time he held our first-born - it looked so natural for him to have a baby in his arms. From that day on, he has been an incredible example to me in caring for our children. Thank you Brian!

Thankful ... Day 10

2009-11-10T21:47:00.002-05:00

Random things:

yellow leaves
the smell of pumpkin spice
a bit of chill in the air
new recipes
my home
running in cooler weather
fudgy brownies fresh out of the oven

Thankful ... Day 9

2009-11-09T22:18:00.004-05:00

Today I am thankful for a 70 degree day in November! We skipped some school this afternoon and played outside!

Thankful ... Day 8

2009-11-08T21:36:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for our church! It was one year ago today that we visited Grace Bible for the first time ... and we've been there ever since. GBC has been such an incredible blessing to us this past year in so many ways. God has used this body to help us heal as well as to grow. I am thankful for the Pastor who reached out to Brian when we first came, providing such wisdom and encouragement during a hard time.

One of the hardest parts of leaving our former church was watching Brian walk away from serving. He has such a heart to serve the Lord in the body. A heart that loves to teach others and point them to Christ. So my heart is full today as I see him being able to serve in that way again.

Thank You God! And all for Your Glory!

Thankful ... Day 7

2009-11-08T21:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday ... I was thankful for Chick-fil-A's chocolate chip peppermint milkshake. Really ... it is soooo much better than it sounds!!

Thanksgiving ... Day 6

2009-11-06T14:37:00.004-05:00

Tonight I am thankful for Saturday mornings! Sleep in (a little) - pancakes by Dad - family time! Love it!

Thankful ... Day 5

2009-11-05T22:03:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for laughter. I have a husband who loves to make me laugh, even when I don't feel like it. My children also make me laugh continually. Often I get busy and caught up in all the things I feel like I have to get done, usually living in the get-it-done mode. I am thankful for my family that surround me and provides opportunity for laughter.

Thankful ... Day 4

2009-11-04T22:21:00.001-05:00

I am thankful for fall! And the fact that I live in a place where we experience all 4 seasons! Love it!

Thankful ... Day 3

2009-11-03T13:47:00.002-05:00

Today I am reminded to be thankful for my parents and parents-in-law. I am thankful that I grew up in a home that loved the Lord. I am thankful that my parents continually showed me their love for God and family.

I am blessed that I married a man who has incredible parents as well. They love the Lord and love their family. It's also amazing that both sets of our parents have been married for a long time. My parents just celebrated their 45th anniversary and Brian's parents have been married almost as long.

My prayer in this time of thanks is that my marriage will leave such a legacy. May our love for one another always be evident and may our love for Jesus shine even more!

Thankful....

2009-11-02T14:28:00.002-05:00

Rebecca, at 'Rebecca Writes', has once again declared November as month of Thanksgiving. So, along with Kim and Leslie, I hope to daily post things for which I am thankful. (Maybe this will get me back into the blogging groove)!

1. Let me go ahead and make up for yesterday. One year ago yesterday was the last day we were at the church plant we had been involved with for 3 years. It was the last time I heard Brian preach. It was the last time we worshiped with people who had been like family. It was an emotionally draining day. Many things had transpired over time (many things that I wanted to blog about but I didn't and now I am grateful that God held my tongue, or the keyboard, or whatever) which led us to realize that we needed to move on to a healthy church body. After many prayers were prayed and tears were cried, we left that body. It was a hard decision and I often wanted to defend ourselves and the misconceptions that were painted about us. But we left that in God's hands and did our best to glorify him in every situation. Brian was such a rock and an example to me during that time. So, the 1st thing I am thankful for this November is the grace, strength, and humility that my husband showed through all of those trials one year ago.

2. Today I am thankful that I can stay home and teach my children. This year that has truly been a joy so far!

What's Been Going on Here...

2009-08-11T14:14:00.004-05:00

Carter's first cereal...

I think he liked it!

Just a cute pic of the girls matching one Sunday...

We had VBS at our church last week. Brian did the music each night and this is what happened by the end of the week! It was a fun and encouraging week - but I think it wiped us all out!

Calvin loved the parachute! (And he had the BEST teacher!)

Emmie and her cousins at snack time!

Crafts

The boy cousins...

Some Time Alone

2009-07-17T19:41:00.003-05:00

Tonight I am babysitting for a friend and her sweet baby is already asleep and I have some time all - by - myself! I have been looking through different resources in preparation for the upcoming school year. One of the resources that Kim pointed me to was this post by Kendra. Kendra then linked to her friend Cheryl as a resource for homeschooling curriculum and encouragement. Her post about the preschool season has continued to be on my mind.

Here is some of her wisdom: "The best thing, the very best thing, you can do with your young children is simply to delight in them ... I know these years can be hard, especially if all of your children are quite young. Might I remind you that God makes no mistakes in sending children our way. He knows, far better than you, what you are able to handle. If it all seems way too overwhelming, stand back and evaluate what you might be trying to do that He has not called you to do. Volunteer work, weekly ladies Bible studies, leading Awanas or Missionettes, - these are all good and worthy pursuits, but are they the BEST things you can be doing in this season of having little ones in your home? I cannot know your circumstances, but I do know this. God does not give us more than we are able to handle. If we are overwhelmed, we are doing more than God has given us to do. Learn to let go of the things that are not yours to do right now."

'Learn to let go of the things that are not yours to do right now.' This is speaking volumes to me because I have a tendency to overcommit and do too much. So as I am preparing for the fall, I am praying that God will direct me to what He desires for me to do. My first calling is to be a wife to my husband and then a mother to my children. I need to be intentional in my time with them this coming year so I am just continuing to pray...

Excuses, Excuses

2009-07-14T23:31:00.003-05:00

One of the reasons I haven't been blogging lately. I hope to gear it back up after the summer ends, but for now, I am loving on this sweet baby (and his 4 siblings)!

For My Joy...

2009-06-18T13:22:00.002-05:00

"If God were not just, there would be no demand for his Son to suffer and die. And if God were not loving, there would be no willingness for his Son to suffer and die. But God is just and loving. Therefor his love is willing to meet the demands of his justice."

-John Piper, "For Your Joy"

Two Months

2009-05-14T23:26:00.003-05:00

(edited to add his picture - I found the camera...)

Carter turned 2 months this week. I would post a picture but I am too lazy to go find the camera. The past 2 months have been special as we have adjusted to this new blessing. He brings joy to every member of our family and is never in need of arms willing to hold him. But although it's been a blessing it's still been very tiring.

And now we are getting ready to go on vacation for a week where we will spend time with family at the beach. My family loves this time, especially the kids. I will admit that it's tiring just getting ready for vacation - especially with a newborn that needs to eat every few hours. But as I was preparing for this time, I remembered CJ Mahaney's series from last year about vacations. This time is an opportunity for me to serve my family - and to serve them with joy.

CJ says, "No one should be happier on vacation than we are. During our vacation our children should repeatedly observe us smiling and laughing, and throughout the vacation they should be the objects of our affection and appreciation."

My prayer is that I will rely on the Lord for the extra strength and grace I will need this coming week to help my family have a special vacation full of fun memories with one another. I'll let you know how it goes!!

Another Birth Story...

2009-04-09T20:30:00.004-05:00

This sweet baby will be 4 weeks old tomorrow so I had better get this birth story written before I forget what happened! On the night of March 11, I began to have regular Braxton Hicks contractions. In fact, I couldn't sleep and they were starting to hurt so about 3 in the morning I called the on-call Dr. and he told me to come in. I figured I would probably just go in and get fluids to stop the contractions and then come home. So, I just left Brian with the kids and headed to the hospital.

When I got there, I still hadn't dilated or anything but the contractions were about 8-10 minutes apart and pretty uncomfortable. I was still hoping to head home soon since my Dr. (that I love and that had delivered the first 4 babies) was in Mexico for the week. Plus I wasn't quite 35 weeks along yet.

By the time the Dr. checked me a few hours later, I was at 3 cm. She told me they don't stop labor at this point because that could be more dangerous than letting labor progress. But I needed to go home and pack the bag and I didn't leave out clothes for the kids - and Brian is color blind! I begged her to let me run home and do some stuff but she wouldn't let me because my cervix had 'been labored upon' (nice phrase huh?) and she didn't want to take any chances.

So I called Brian and he packed up everything (like a pro - and they were all matched up) and took care of getting the kids to Granny and PawPaw. I felt relieved once he got to the hospital to be with me. I was a little nervous about having this baby early - what if the lungs weren't ready? What if he had to go to the NICU? But we rested in the fact that the Lord had already determined this baby's birthdate - and His sovereignty brought me much comfort.

We didn't do much to help the labor along because if I delivered after midnight then the baby would be exactly 35 weeks along. Kim came by around supper time and brought us some snacks (shhh!) which were a life saver! My contraband pop-tart had been long gone! And popsicles only satisfy for so long! I got my epidural around 8:00 pm and was much more comfortable after that. About 54 minutes after the dawn of March 13, I pushed 3 times and little Carter Shane came out - it was a boy!!

The wierd thing was that the NICU was there to watch the delivery and that was very bizarre - 2 men that I didn't know - with several other women, watching me!? The awesome Dr. tried to block their 'view' but that was still wierd for me. Anyway, after delivery the NICU checked him out and he looked great! So they all left him with me for him to go to the regular nursery! He stayed there for a bit while they suctioned some fluid but after a few hours, he came to stay with us.

It was an exausting few days since I was up most of Wednesday night with contractions and all of Thursday night with labor - but it was so worth it!! He was 6 pounds 1 once of pure sweetness! All 19 1/2 inches of him!

We are thankful for this additional blessing in our lives! Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and encouragement during this time!

Blessings...

2009-03-24T21:35:00.002-05:00

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Ps. 127:3

There have been so many blessings in our lives this past week as we have brought home this new baby boy. (Kim took the above pic, isn't she great?) My husband wrote a sweet post this week about the blessings he has seen this week. He hardly ever writes such a personal post so I encourage you to read it!

One of the blessings in our lives has been having grandparents that live in the same town. They blessed us by keeping our other 4 children while we were in the hospital and they have provided small blessings every day since Carter's birth.

Just the other day I called Brian's dad to let him know that we enjoyed the carrot cake he had sent our way but that it was gone!! Later that afternoon, Brian's mom and aunt came by with an apple pie, a chocolate cake, brownie bites and chocolate chip cookies! The next day she brought by a homemade pound cake! Needless to say, we shouldn't be hurting for dessert at our house this week! Thanks Granny and PawPaw!

March Madness

2009-03-19T20:25:00.002-05:00

This is what happens when you have a baby in the middle of March and Daddy is home during the day for 2 weeks! Homeschooling centers around March Madness! Spelling happens as they learn to spell "Louisville" and "Gonzaga". Math happens as they pick their winning teams to go to the "Sweet 16" and the "Elite 8".

Brian got us all involved today. He had brackets for all of us to fill out. The kids have been so excited to watch and see if 'their' teams win. The funnest part was listening to the reasoning behind their picks. Emmie picked Kansas because Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz lives there. She also picked West Virginia (to go all the way in fact) because that is where PawPaw is from. Coleman picked VCU because they are yellow, his favorite color!

So, needless to say, we've been busy around here with a new baby AND March Madness! I'll let you know who wins!!

Great Friends...

2009-03-16T14:13:00.003-05:00

Last week I met some friends for dinner and they surprised me with the sweetest baby shower!! God has graciously blessed me with a group of sweet women that I call friends. We did a lot of talking, eating, and laughing. I got so many sweet gifts, some of which are pictured here. Look at those diapers - definitely a need!!

Kim made this sweet collage of all of my sweet 'babies!' (It's nice to have a friend that takes incredible pics with her fancy camera!)

Several of my kids will fit in this bag!!

Sophia, Dusty, Kim, Jamie, Kelly and me

Yummy cake!!

Thank you guys for making me feel special! Glad we got it in before baby Carter came!!

Sweet Baby Boy

2009-03-15T20:52:00.003-05:00

As most of you know, our sweet baby boy - Carter Shane Barber - was born this past Friday! He was born early at 35 weeks (he just turned 35 weeks on the day he was born)! I will post more about the story later but we are so thankful for his health and that he is home with us. We are filled with awe!!

Thank you for all of your prayers for us!!

Welcome.... Carter Shane Barber

2009-03-13T20:34:00.004-05:00

Welcome.....

Carter Shane Barber

6lbs 1 oz

19 1/4 inches

Born on March 13th 2009

March ...

2009-03-01T19:31:00.003-05:00

Is it March already? Hard to believe! That means several things around here. I am due in April but usually go a few weeks early (which is a good thing, as long as it's not too early, so I can have a successful VBAC again), which means (like the long run-on sentence) that this baby could be here sometime THIS MONTH! I don't know if it's a boy or girl because Brian wanted to wait to find out what it is and since I had my way the first 4 times I decided to serve him in this way. So ... maybe later this month we will finally know if it's a boy or girl! (Although I think it's a boy - what's your guess?)

March is also the month where Spring begins. I love Spring. One of my favorite seasons... but guess what? It's just started snowing here! The kids are so excited - and we're praying Daddy stays home tomorrow to help everyone play in the snow because it won't be a pretty picture if this big ole' pregnant momma gets out there! Know what I mean?

So technically, March is still winter here in VA! Hopefully some fun snow pics will come tomorrow!

Marriage Based on Grace

2009-02-20T14:27:00.003-05:00

"You cannot say too often that marriage is a model of Christ and the church ... this makes clear that marriage is based on grace. Christ pursues his bride by grace, obtains her for his own by grace, sustains her by grace, and will perfect her for himself by grace. We deserve none of this. We deserve judgment. It is all by grace." This Momentary Marriage by John Piper

This has so many implications in my own life and marriage. Even though I KNOW that marriage is a model of Christ and his church, I don't think about the truth of that often enough. I do not deserve the grace that God has given me. I am thankful for it but I often take if for granted. (I guess one could argue about the depth of that thankfulness if I do take it for granted - but that's probably another post). I usually find myself being slow to offer grace to my husband - and why - after all Christ has done for me? Well, because I don't usually choose to live in that same grace that has been extended to me. I pray that I continue to learn how to model God's grace in how I love and forgive others, especially my husband.

My Prayer for this Week...

2009-02-08T22:26:00.003-05:00

I ordered Brian some John Piper books (yes there are a few we don't have) for his birthday back in January. One of them was his new book on marriage called "This Momentary Marriage." I was so excited this week when they finally came!

Yes, he wanted the marriage book but I was excited about reading it too. He began reading the biography on John Calvin while I stared on the marriage one. It is such a great read. I hope to write even more thoughts on it soon but for now I leave you with this:

"...in marriage you live hour by hour in glad dependence on God's forgiveness and justification and promised future grace, and you bend it out toward your spouse hour by hour - as an extension of God's forgiveness and justification and promised help."

I'm Back...

2009-01-30T15:16:00.001-05:00

Yes, this poor blog has been neglected lately. It has been busy and I have had many topics swirling around in my head but haven’t yet written them down. I will try to do better.

One of the fun things of pregnancy that has been going on lately is … leg cramps. I have gotten these awful things in the third trimester of every pregnancy. So of course, this time is no different.

About 2 weeks ago, I woke up as Brian was getting ready to leave for work with a horrible leg cramp in my calf. The kind where it feels like someone is cutting it open with a knife. So I hear Brian still in the kitchen and I start beating (as quietly as possible so not to wake the children) on the wall and screaming (as quietly as possible) for him to come. Immediately he knows what is going on.

He comes in and starts stretching my leg like the football trainers do on the field. All the while, he’s telling me to get up to go get some water and that I need to walk. Ummmm – yeah – I know, I just can’t move because of the pain (not to mention I am pulling worn-out stomach muscles, well muscles might be too strong a word, as I try to get out of the bed)! So it takes a good 5-10 minutes for me to get to the point where I can finally get out of bed!

I make it to drink some water and eat a banana – but my leg is so worn out that it is sore for 3 days after that! Yikes. I had one more night where they were threatening to come but we were able to work them out pretty fast. I know, I know – drink water, eat bananas, stretch, etc. Trust me, I am doing all of that – and hopefully I won’t experience too many more of these the next 2 months!!

See aren’t you glad I filled you in with what’s going on?

Happy Birthday Brian!

2009-01-07T16:12:00.004-05:00

34 Things… (since you’re 34 years old)

1. I love how you truly desire to please the LORD.

2. I love how your favorite number seems to be 17.

3. I love to go to bed with you each night.

4. I love to hug you.

5. I love how you smell (most of the time)! :)

6. I am thankful for the joy you take in caring for our kids.

7. I am thankful that you truly enjoy bathing the children!

8. I am fascinated by the patience you have with me.

9. I am grateful for the mercy you continually extend to me.

10. I hope to be more like you in how I love others.

11. I am thankful for your family.

12. I love to watch you play with the kids.

13. I love watching you hold our newborn babies.

14. I appreciate how you serve us in those days after we bring home a new baby.

15. I like to spend time with you, just hanging out.

16. You’re my most favorite person.

17. I am in awe of your humility.

18. I am thankful for your model of godliness, especially in hard church situations this past year.

19. I love to listen to you play guitar.

20. I love for you to lead in worship. (and I miss that now)

21. You’re one of my favorite preachers (right up there with John Piper)! :)

22. I love your passion for right doctrine.

23. I am a bit jealous of your easy-going spirit.

24. I am thankful that you always point me to the Truth.

25. I am grateful for the support you give me as I develop strong, godly friendships with some girlfriends.

26. I am glad to know you would fight to protect us if an intruder came into our home at night! J

27. I love to laugh with you at night when my ‘talking’ in my sleep wakes us both up.

28. I am thankful that you enjoy being with my side of the family.

29. I love to hear you pray for our children.

30. I love to hear you pray for me.

31. I enjoy looking back on memories with you.

32. I like to read your blog posts (although some make my head hurt so I can’t read them late at night)!

33. I love how you make me laugh.

34. I pray for at least 34 more birthdays to celebrate together!

What to Say to a Grieving Friend...

2008-12-24T10:47:00.001-05:00

Go here to be encouraged...

Christmas Fun!

2008-12-24T10:01:00.004-05:00

The Annual Gingerbread House

Precision!

Concentration!

Little Helping Hands...

The Finished Product (which didn't last long)!

Can YOU guess Calvin's Sunday School craft?

2008-12-22T23:14:00.003-05:00

Calvin came home with an interesting craft yesterday! We had a hoot of a time trying to figure out what it is. Maybe you can help. Could this be a ghost or something?

This is a paper plate with yarn on it...

Could it be a pot holder or something?

I guess it could be baby Jesus in a manger maybe (since it is Christmas time)?

What do you think?

A Faithful Pastor

2008-12-18T09:32:00.003-05:00

"If the church is to prosper and mature, she will need faithful men to lead and care for her. The church will need men who are sound in doctrine, whose lives are guided by the Word of God, and who are willing to defend the truth. The church will need to hold up as its ideal those who model fidelity and love toward God, men who will pour themselves our for the benefit of the Lord's sheep. Men of this mold are gifts to the church from her Lord."
-Thabiti Anyabwile - "The Faithful Preacher"

Here's an update on our church search. The search has been completely covered in grace. We visited a new church in November and the Pastor, who was somewhat familiar with Brian's role in our church plant, immediately contacted us. He sought us out with concern, meeting with Brian to seek to understand the circumstances surrounding our departure. He has also been in contact with our former Pastor to have these truths confirmed. The leadership of this new church has taken great care to reach out to us and other families during this time of hurt and healing. This man has a heart for the Lord and a heart for the people he is shepherding. We have been missing that for a long time and we didn't even know it. I am overwhelmed when I think about how gracious God has been to us during this time. We are forever thankful!

What's Going On Around Here!

2008-12-12T21:35:00.008-05:00

Well, it's been a whirlwind around here lately. We went down to GA for Thanksgiving week to spend time with Daddy Mac, Mimi and Ms. Fran. Once we returned we jumped into decorating for Christmas... Here are the kids decorating 'their' tree in the playroom:

(Apparently decorating made Daddy really tired - or maybe it was the 11-hour drive the day before!) Then the kids spent some time helping PawPaw and Granny decorate their tree:

One of our favorite Christmas traditions is going to the mall to ride the little Christmas train.

Each year we also bake sugar cookies and decorate them with icing and sprinkles. The kids really enjoyed it this year! Especially little Ellerie - she sure seemed to enjoy her cookie!

Guess who started the 'icing on the face' - well Daddy of course!

That's a little of what's been going on around here!! Just wanted to let you know we're still around!

Fall Fun - Catching Up

2008-11-21T21:40:00.005-05:00

Calvin having fun with the Princess Leia wig!

Ellerie's turn...

The Crew on Fall Festival - Candy night!

Yoda carrying his Lightning McQueen car.

Annakin

Princess Leia - with her gun in her holster and baby on her hip!

Sweet friends!

More friends...

Coleman and Ellerie in the leaves (if you can see her)...

Emmie

Dad and Calvin

A New Home

2008-11-10T11:15:00.001-05:00

The last couple of weeks have been hard for my our family. (Well, the kids have been spared most of the heartache so far). The story began three years ago when God clearly called us to help plant a reformed Bible-teaching, expository-preaching church in this area. During these past three years, the biggest blessing has been to see how God has grown my husband and refined his gifts in the area of leadership, particularly in the service of teaching and preaching.

One of the greatest joys has been the strengthening and deepening of Christian friendships. True friends have been the ones who have pointed us toward Christ, encouraged us in the hard times, and stood by us when no one else did. I am thankful for these type of relationships which speak Truth to us (not just what we want to hear) and challenge us to be more like Christ.

During the last year there has been some tension among the leadership of our church about the job responsibilities of church planting leadership. Through a long series of unfortunate circumstances, we saw that in order to protect the body from division, it would be best for us to step down and find another place of worship. (If anyone has questions for us, we are more than willing to talk with you in private).

This decision has been hard and is grieving our hearts but at the same time we feel a peace about this new direction for our family. All along, our desire has been to bring glory to God with our lives. Is there regret? Not at all! We have seen God working in many ways the last three years. Our comfort has been that our service is not for any man, not even for the church, but for Him!

So now we begin the journey of looking for a new church home. Read here to find out how our first day went…

The Church

2008-11-06T14:45:00.004-05:00

Today, while reading "Women's Ministry in the Local Church", I read this quote by Ligon Duncan:

"The Bible is to have a controlling influence in our lives and in our ministry in the local church ... The people and the house we serve are not ours; they are His. It is vital that we live and minister in accordance with His Book. This is completely counterintuitive in our pragmatic culture. We want to minister our way. We want to set up our own rules and define the game plan. But Paul emphasizes that if we are to grow in grace as a congregation, if we are to be what He has called us to be, we have to live and minister according to the Book."

Pumpkin Patch Pictures

2008-11-06T09:56:00.004-05:00

Back in October we went to the local pumpkin patch for a hayride, a straw maze and pumpkin picking! Here are some pics...Ellerie - "I can get it ..."

Calvin - 'this will work but...'

'I'd rather have this one!'

Coleman on the hayride...

Emmie in the straw maze

Let's try for a group shot...

Ok - let's try again...

Alright - one more time.

Work with me people!

All the VA cousins...

Are you serious?

2008-10-29T18:11:00.002-05:00

Did you know that there is a sermon site where Pastors can buy sermons to preach on Sunday? Seriously. Pastor James Merrit has a site called Pastor'sEdge where you can choose from several options: sermon series with artwork, single sermon with artwork, single sermons without artwork (I guess if you're on a tight budget), and PowerPoint background sets.

Come on people, are you serious?

Politics

2008-10-15T21:54:00.002-05:00

Go here and make sure you don't waste your vote!! (By the way, that is my husband's blog!)

Crock Pot Chocolate Cake

2008-09-26T13:11:00.003-05:00

I found this yummy recipe online. Be sure to serve it with homemade whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Add some hot fudge sauce too!

Ingredients:

1 pkg. two layer chocolate cake mix
3 oz. pkg. instant chocolate pudding mix
4 eggs
1 cup water
2 cups sour cream
3/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup milk chocolate chips

Spray a 4 quart crockpot with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mix. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the water, then add the sour cream and oil and beat until smooth. Add to the dry ingredients and beat well. Stir in the chocolate chips. Pour into crockpot. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until top springs back when touched very lightly with finger. 8-10 servings

(I just mixed it all together in the crock pot and I cook it on high for about 3 1/2 hours)!

Enjoy the moist, chocolately goodness!!

A Conversation With Emmie...

2008-09-22T09:02:00.002-05:00

Emmie: Who is John McCain?

Dad: He's a guy that is running for President.

Emmie: Why is he doing that?

Dad: I guess he aspires to be President of the United States...

Emmie: Does he know Jesus?

Dad: I don't know - I don't think he does.

Emmie: Well, who is going to tell him?

Dad: We need to pray that God will raise up someone who can share the Gospel with him.

Emmie: What about you?

Dad: Well, I don't know him and probably won't ever have a chance to talk to him.

Emmie: What about Michael Phelps?

(What? Where does she come up with this stuff? I'm not sure why she assumes Michael Phelps is a Christian, but I guess she thinks he might have a chance to talk to the President.)

Can I Blame My Lack of Posting on This?

2008-09-12T10:25:00.001-05:00

Catching Up

2008-09-10T13:24:00.004-05:00

My parents came up to visit a couple of weeks ago and they brought Ms. Fran with them. Ms. Fran is a sweet, old woman (she's almost 85!) from their church in Georgia. She is widowed and doesn't have any children or much other family. We usually try to go to lunch with her when we're down there visiting, and I thought it may be fun for her to come up and visit sometime.

She spent the night at Brian's parents house while she was here so she could have her own space. (Hey -even I was jealous of that!) We loved having her here. She loved on all of our kids and they all loved on her. It was such a blessing for us to be able to spend time with her although we kept her pretty busy.

We went out to lunch, shopped at Sam's, went to Jamestown and Yorktown - all in just 3 days!

This is the ferry to Jamestown.

Here is Ms. Fran with all the kids!

Mimi and Mac at one of the ships.

Everyone 'helping' lift something. Which is comical, because we all know that Mimi doesn't sweat, at least not intentionally. So I'm sure Brian is the only one doing the 'lifting'!

Ms. Fran with Brian's parents - who fixed us a wonderful rib dinner after our long day at Jamestown and Yorktown!!

Thanks for indulging all the pictures lately. If you're interested in some blogging that will make you think, go here.

First Day of School!

2008-09-02T20:00:00.003-05:00

Today was our first official day of school! We had a great morning and then went to a cook-out with some other homeschooling friends. It was a great way to start the year!
Coleman - 2nd grade

Emmie - 1st grade

Calvin - preschool

Everyone for circle time (yes, Larry Boy visited with us today - what's funny is that Larry Boy is bigger than Ellerie)!