where the wild things are

Before & After

2012-02-14T12:57:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love a little before & after?
I feel like I have been working on Eli & Sam's room since we moved almost 6 years ago...I guess I kind of have! We never really settled on the layout and given that there were a lot of things to work with in the room- two doorways, 3 windows, a fireplace, and no closet- gave us quite the challenge. Plus throw a crib in there with bunk beds and too many toys and it will make your head spin.
Eli is getting a bit older and started talking about wanting his own room- not going to happen- so we had to get creative and give the boys there own space. They are so going to be sharing a room until Eli goes off to college!

So here is what the room looked like when we first bought it....scary I know. And I only wish I had taken more pictures of the house when we first moved in.

Then after a little work...super messy but you the idea. Oh yeah we also had to rip up all the floors a few years ago because of termites, hence the new addition of carpet. Ah the joys of a 120 year old house.

During the building process...this only took about two years. Ha!

And now the final after shots...at least until they are teenagers. Striped and painted the bunk beds black as well as raising the top bunk a little. Raising it now allows us to actually be able to sit on the bed and not hit our heads! Added an "art gallery", closets, individual reading nooks, and you got it- a stage!

Concerts nightly. Cover charge is chocolate chip cookies.

What's for dinner?

2012-01-28T20:43:00.000-05:00

Yes, it yet another Mexican dish. 5 out of 7 dinners at our house are going to no doubt going to be Mexican dishes. This recipe just might top them all though...and I have David to thank. Er, well, Mens Journal really. And as always, it is cheap, easy and delicious!
Warning: This is SPICY so if you can't take a little heat, this dish is not for you!

Tacos Recalentados (Makes 8)
1 Small Onion, sliced
1 Garlic Clove, chopped
2 tbsp Olive Oil
2 cups shredded roasted chicken (or if you are real cheap like me, 2 cans of can chicken)
Kosher salt
1 Bay Leaf
13oz can of diced tomatoes
1 tbsp of roasted chipotle, chopped (from a can)
Flour Tortillas
Shredded Cheese
Sliced Avocado- this is KEY

Saute onion and garlic with olive oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add chicken and cook for 2 minutes. Add salt, bay leaf, tomatoes and chipotle. Simmer for 5 minutes. Warm up tortillas, fill with chicken mixture, add cheese and avocado. Serve with Roasted Tomato Chipotle Salsa.

Roasted Tomato Chipotle Salsa
2 plum tomatoes, quartered
1 tbsp onion, chopped
1 garlic clove
1 serrano chili, seeded
2 tbsp olive oil
Kosher salt
Pepper
1/2 cup cilantro
1 tbsp chipotle (from a can)
1 tbsp sherry vinegar

Heat oven to 350 and toss tomatoes, onion, garlic and chili in roasting pan with olive oil, salt and pepper. Cover with aluminum foil and roast for 30 minutes. In the food processor pulse the roasted tomatoes mixture with the remaining ingredients.

Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Emily

2012-01-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

The baby girl is not a baby anymore. I must keep telling myself that...she is in a regular bed, she is almost potty trained, she is drinking from a cup, etc, etc- all the things that remind me she isn't a baby. Here are a few pictures from the fun filled birthday weekend!

A little fun with friends at the Cool Shark 5K. Seriously these girls look like they could be sisters.

Especially Ruthie and Em (far left)!

Cinderella made an appearance at Emily's Princess Party too!

That girl is crazy about some dress up.

Happy 2nd Birthday Sweet Emily Eloise.

9 years strong

2012-01-11T06:01:00.001-05:00

We celebrated a little early this year with a trip to the mountains- hiking, horseback riding, spa treatments, tour of a vineyard- the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the last nine years of our marriage. Thank you Groupon Getaways! Curling up in front of the fireplace with an Irish Creme was heaven. I couldn't help but feel a little guilty, but the kiddos were with their grandparents and having a blast so everyone was happy!

Can't believe it has been 9 years already.

Happy Anniversary David!

Christmas Morning

2011-12-31T11:01:00.000-05:00

I almost can't sleep on Christmas Eve. So much excitement in giving gifts! Here are a few shots from the morning.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-31T10:52:00.001-05:00

Christmas Eve Service at Wesley. One of my favorite.

Must also mention that David, John and Josh did a hysterical rendition of Christmas Time by the Chipmunks during the children's time at the service. Helium and all. Priceless.

Sam is the only one that will take a picture for me these days without serious bribing.

All three of my munchkins. Emily's dress was actually mine when I was her age. So fun to pull out old treasures that my mom made almost 30 years ago.

Couldn't get the whole family to pose but this will do!

Christmas Festivities

2011-12-31T10:51:00.000-05:00

We couldn't have asked for a better Christmas spent with family and friends.

I think Grandmother & Papa just might have had more fun decorating the gingerbread house than the kids did!

Cousin Christmas party at the park did not disappoint either... especially followed by a hot dog at ZuZu's and a treat from Yobe. We went back to Yobe on Christmas Eve too and thankfully the boys listened to me the second time around and chose wisely with their yogurt toppings. The first visit they wouldn't even eat their yogurt creation, nor could I since they piled it up with gummy worms, chocolate sauce, cookie dough, sprinkles etc. Disgusting.

Aunt C showed out too with a Cookie Decorating Party! Sam must have decorated 5 cookies...I think he ate almost all of them too.

Emily was more interesting in the toppings. And Eli wasn't even available for a picture, he was too busy working up a sweat in the backyard.

A Christmas Story

2011-12-19T11:15:00.000-05:00

This week is just full of Christmas Traditions! One of my favorites being the Christmas Program at Sam's Montessori. This year he was the shepherd and his good friend Elizabeth was the angel. I was so scared he was going to knock someone out with that staff!

Ta-da!!

2011-12-19T11:12:00.000-05:00

This is the first on many with Angie at Studio 1604 and I think that will be just fine with Emmie.

Angie, who is prego with twins, treated Emily just right with her choice of candy at the end of the haircut!

She is channeling Farrah Fawcet here!

Papa Snowman

2011-12-19T11:08:00.000-05:00

I don't remember school plays ever being this cute, but Mr. Powers at St. Simons Elementary rocked "Melton The Warm Hearted Snowman." Eli had the role of Papa Snowman and had us cracking up with his delivery of lines throughout the performance.

Emily clapped the whole time and said "yaaayyy," while Sam sat in my lap right at the front and tried to sing along. Proud brother and sister for sure.

His Second Grade class couldn't have been any cuter either.

Hope you come back one day Papa Snowman! You are way more fun than Frosty.

My Favorite Time of the Year

2011-12-03T10:18:00.000-05:00

FINALLY we have a real Christmas tree. My house smells so good.

I LOVE Christmas.

Couldn't resist

2011-12-03T10:04:00.000-05:00

Meet my newest intern at grace graffiti. We finished up this M for a bride out in Texas but I needed to snap a few pictures of it first. Enter my 4 year old Sam. We simply needed a contrast of size to add to our listings in etsy but Sam went all out and really hammed it up for the camera.

Hope his cuteness puts a smile on your face too.

A different kind of Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T12:32:00.000-05:00

We traded in our turkey & dressing for turkey burgers with Shamu this year.

Wednesday morning we surprised the kiddos and told them we were leaving for Sea World after they finished their cereal! Eli did not believe us...it took some convincing and after he saw his bag already packed and in the car he was a believer. After the initial shock there was much jumping up and down with squeals of excitement.

A trip to Universal's City Walk and a chance to embarrass Eli on the surfboard.

Dinner at NASCAR Grill- the boys are big fans of race cars.

And then onto Sea World!

Very thankful to share this sweet time with my very favorite people.

A good day.

2011-11-17T08:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a good day. Excitement is an understatement when I actually saw Grace Graffiti in print in the latest issue of Coastal Illustrated. I knew it was coming, duh, I answered the interview questions, but it still took me by surprise. It is just plain fun. So take a look- click here!

Still enjoying the candy

2011-11-01T09:34:00.000-04:00

Presenting...

Stingray Sam.

I am not sure what makes him decide on his costumes, but every year he comes up with the best costumes. It was quite a site seeing him trick or treat on his tricycle last night, arms outstretched in perfect stingrray form and his stinger trailing behind. Classic.

Ballerina Emily

She really didn't have much of a choice. I have a bit of an obsession with ballerinas. She didn't seem to mind though, she is all about shoes and she got a new pair of ballet slippers.

Ninja Eli

Eli was an intense sword fighting kung foo yelling ninja machine. And his mission of the night was one thing- get as much candy as possible.

I vote next year all the adults dress up too!

I could learn a thing or two...

2011-10-25T19:46:00.001-04:00

I could learn a thing or two from Eli. He is quite the budding artist and our whole family is pretty proud of him. This week at school on DNN, Dolphin News Network that is, he was announced as a winner for the Fall Festival Poster Contest! We cannot wait to see what is in store for him in the future- he is such a creative bugger. Can you see the excitement on his face!?

Favorite Things

2011-10-14T13:38:00.000-04:00

I don't know where September went. I am having a hard time realizing that it is the middle of October, but it is so I have to deal. It is not hard to do this since I do LOVE this time of year. So I thought it would be fun to name a few of my favorite things...

1.) Layering. The weather is a tad cooler giving this hot-natured girl (and by that I mean sweat like a pig) room to throw on a cardigan or light scarf.

2.) Golden Clove Room Spray by Pier One. My friend Sonal gave this to me years ago and I only use it in the fall. It just takes a little to transform you to feeling like you are in the mountains sipping cider outside getting cozy by the fire. It packs a punch. Going to have to make a run soon to Pier One for more.

3.) Screen Doors. I know it is just a door, but fresh air does a body good. As long as the wind is blowing the right way at low tide.

4.) Fire Pits. We plan on having one tonight in our backyard. Guessing we will cook hot dogs and s'mores. Yum. A 7 and 4 year old boys dream.

5.) The crisp air. It just makes everything better. David and I are training for our first 5K (The Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee) since college and this kind of weather just makes you want to run. Plus we do all our Grace Graffiti work outside and it is nice not to have to fight the sand gnats and sweat to death.

6.) I don't have to have to put on a swim suit for at least 5 months.

What's for dinner?

2011-09-14T20:34:00.000-04:00

I cannot get enough of this dish these days.

Asian Turkey Meatballs. Normally I am not a big fan of turkey burgers and such, but this dish is a must. Thanks to one of the best cooks I know, Kara, I now get to add it on my regular menu rotation.

And the kids? They love it too. Like lick their plate clean like it...well if I actually let them do that.

Serve it over brown rice or even lo-mein. AND you can make a mean turkey meatball sandwich out of the leftovers and top it with Asian slaw. My mouth is now officially watering.

Click her for the recipe!

Psalm 51

2011-09-13T10:54:00.000-04:00

Read this passage this morning at my small group with my junior girls and just so beautiful it needs to be shared.

Have mercy on me o God,
because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.
Wash me clean from my guilt.
Purify me from my sin.
For I recognize my rebellion;
it haunts me day and night.
Against you and you alone, have I sinned.
I have done what is evil in your sight.
You will be proved right in what you say,
for your judgement against me is just.
For I was born a sinner-
yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.
But you desire honesty from the womb,
teaching me wisdom even there.

Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean;
wash me and I will be whiter than snow.
Oh, give me back my joy again;
you have broken me-
now let me rejoice.
Don't keep looking at my sins.
Remove the stain of my guilt.
Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.

Too cute for words

2011-08-28T20:23:00.000-04:00

He is 4.

2011-08-23T11:09:00.000-04:00

*sigh*

Sam the Man

2011-08-18T09:51:00.000-04:00

Sam was more than excited this morning when I dropped him off at school this morning.

Emily was excited too and had to squeeze herself into a picture!

Second Grade. What!?

2011-08-11T07:59:00.000-04:00

Rome Sweet Home

2011-08-10T10:28:00.000-04:00

After we left the city we headed a little father north to good ol' Rome where we were able to spend a little more quality time with all the family! Emily was beside herself with all the attention.

GMC with Emily

The boys with their Nanny & Papaw.

More with GMC.

Sam is going to luck up and have two birthday cakes!

And Uncle Root Beer got to meet Emily!

In the city

2011-08-09T10:01:00.000-04:00

School starts Thursday so last weekend we opted to get in one last summer fun trip. We headed up to the ATL and spent some quality time together...

...making a splash,

filling up on the world's best hamburgers & onion rings,

taking in the city skyline,

exploring the dinosaurs at Fernbank,

and making each other laugh!

And yes Em was with us but we weren't quick enough to get a picture of her- she is on the move!

The unexpected.

2011-08-01T11:38:00.000-04:00

The thought of trying to summarize and capture this past week in words overwhelms me a tad. I admit that I am surprised at how God moved this past week in Gary, WV. I am not really sure what I expected, but I know that lives were changed and people felt God's love.

David & I took 10 high school students from our church and traveled about 10 hours north via mini-vans to Gary, West Virginia. Our goal was to work on some houses in the mornings and then run a Kid's Club in the afternoons. David's team laid new flooring for a family in need and my team was on a roof with sledge hammers knocking down a chimney that had pulled away from the house. We all came together after lunch to prep for the kids that we would be picking up for kids club.

Our mini vans served as the "bus" for the week too. Crazy to have a ton of kids piled in the van- no car seats, seat belts, etc...this is just how it is in the small town of Gary. At about 1:00pm was the designated pick up time and most of the kids had just woken up and were finishing up their cereal...much different lifestyle.

Kids Club was challenging but so rewarding. We made some very special relationships with the kids and I loved getting to see our students get down right silly with them- they weren't worried about looking cool. They loved on them, played with them and prayed over them.

Our team is so grateful that we were lead by some amazing Experience Mission interns- Melisa, Jessica, Bobby, & Chad. Their leadership was well beyond their years and the sacrifices they have made this summer are downright inspiring.

I did have the opportunity to share a lot with a 7 year old girl named Tosha. In the weeks past she had been a bit of a trouble maker and hard to handle. She taught me so much this week though...everyone wants to be loved. You can read more about it here.

Bottom line? Here are the lessons I need to remember:

Be silly. This can be super spiritual. I want to have more glitter-bubble-dance parties with Bieber.

The "world" is wherever I am. That is my ministry.

Choose to speak life- not death.

Prayer. Do it. It changes everything.

Love my children....more.

Teenagers say and do some amazing things. I don't think the next generation gets enough credit.

We stayed in a very old school on the side of the mountain.

Me & Tosha

WUMAC: Victoria, Garret, JD, Jamie, Cole, David, Steven

Samantha, Cayla, Brant, Savannah, Me

Acey & David having fun with pipe cleaners

After our glitter-bubble dance party

Brian...already missing our morning conversations

Turtle Camp

2011-07-12T20:49:00.000-04:00

Eli loves sea turtles. Lucky us we live by the ocean and the Georgia Sea Turtle Museum & Hospital. Eli was finally old enough this summer to go to turtle camp for a whole week on Jekyll Island. He was able to check on sea turtle nests and took care of the "patients" each day.

Hopefully we will get to see some hatch in August!

An overdue visit

2011-07-10T19:10:00.000-04:00

I love having company visit...especially when it is my best friend from high school Sonal , her husband and their precious baby girl Mira. Don't you love that name?

I think my boys just might have been a tad more excited than me though. Who else is going to play space alien invasion with them right? Russ & Sonal are such amazing parents and the way that they juggle all that they do is beyond me. It is always so refreshing to be able to spend time with the ones you love!

Here was the best picture I could snap of the whole crew.
Mira, Finley (always in motion), Eli, Sam, & Emily (not a fan of the camera at the moment)

Energy...

2011-06-15T14:33:00.000-04:00

...they have it.

My Paradise

2011-06-15T14:30:00.000-04:00

We pulled up on Saturday and I did not get back in my car until the following Saturday.

Waves crashing and sunlight were my alarm clocks.

Multiple kayak trips with the whole family in the tandem.

And lots of avacados.

My paradise.

And I just couldn't decide what pictures to share so I probably shared too many...but I know Nanny, Pawpaw & GMC will enjoy looking at them! (great-grandparents...isn't it cool that grandfather is in his 80s and has his own laptop?)

They do love each other.

Em the surfer chick.

Chillin' in the best investment ever.

Sweetness.

Kayaked with dolphins almost everyday. Eli learned to paddle too.

She loves her life jacket. Thought she was super cool, I had to pry it off of her.

This boy can get away with anything when he flashes that smile.

Is it just me hoping or do we look just alike in this picture?

On the move with her pigtails.

This took some effort to get. I was handing out alot of Smarties.

Ahh...I need to remember this when she is a teenager.

My men.

I love vacation. Please come back again soon.

Oprah

2011-06-13T17:52:00.000-04:00

I have never been an Oprah fanatic or hater...just indifferent. I respect her for where she came from and what she has done with her life. All that I have really known of her in the last decade is her car giveways and the "favorite things" shows. BUT since it was her 25th and final season of The Oprah Winfrey Show I thought it might just be history in the making and set my DVR to record all the shows. It started out as something to tune into while I worked out and I would watch when my fave celebrities were making an appearance.

Sometimes though you get the unexpected.

I started to tune less into the celebrity appearances and more into the "other" stuff that Oprah was giving a platform to. I allowed myself to be educated on things that I would have otherwise not known or rather needed to be reminded of.

I drove my husband crazy filling him in on the latest Oprah ah-hah moment. When I finally watched the final episode (which yes I am way behind since that was last night and it actually aired weeks ago)I was taken back and brought to tears.

Laugh if you want but something happened that I NEVER saw coming.

First she talked about coming from a backwoods Mississippi town and trying to make it. She talked about how everyone has a calling. She talked about how you are enough. She talked about how your life is your responsibility. She said that worthiness is your birthright. And then she said that everyone wants to be heard and asks these 3 questions:

Do you see me?

Do you hear me?

Does what I say matter?

Validation.

But here is the kicker...she then said that the only reason that she is here today and done what she has done is because of Jesus Christ. She gave God all the glory.

Oprah went on and on about the Alpha & Omega, the Mighty One, the King of Kings and then told the world that it was because of his grace that she has been set free. And then she told the world that it is there for them too...always has been.

Not what I expected at all for her final episode, but I am so glad that I tuned in. Sure did teach me something and make me happy.

I adore.

2011-06-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

That time has come...I guess I should have seen it coming since I celebrated the big 3-0 just a couple of weeks ago, but still just hard to believe. When David and I first started ministry together back before we were even engaged our first youth group was a special group of kiddos. I adored them all then and I continue to adore them as they have grown into adults.

A couple of weekends ago David and I were so thrilled to attend a wedding of two of our youth from Albany, GA. They were in middle school when we first met and here they are getting married! It was an absoulte beautiful wedding but more importantly it was a beautiful depiction of faith, hope, redemption and love.

We couldn't have been more proud of all the faces of our old youth group that we were able to see that night...each and every one of them. The young adults that they have become, their own unique ministry, their aspirations of the future. It was such an affirmation to me that the ministry that we are now doing is exactly what God has called us too. I feel so blessed to continue to be able to pour into youth lives just a little as they make make my cup overflow. I think of this special group of kids so often and feel so fortunate that they were our first.

My girl Payne

And the beautiful Bride Mary Elizabeth.

They are all such a treasure. Can't wait till the next wedding in December.

Baby Breaker

2011-06-12T12:46:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, June 8th my sweet little nephew decided to make his entrance, weighing in at 4lbs, 15 oz at Savannah Memorial Hospital. He has already been labeked Wild Man and proved this when I first saw him on Saturday. Nothing calm about him, he is a mover & a shaker and I am not talking about crying either. The boy was just wiggling and dancing in his mama's arms. Maybe it was his super cool shades that he wears for his photo therapy. Regardless we are so thrilled that my sister was able to tuff it out in the hospital for 36 days and deliver Breaker at 32 weeks. We love you already Breaker Bridges!!

Goodbye & Hello

2011-06-12T11:59:00.000-04:00

What a difference a year makes...

Goodbye pre-school and first grade.

Hello Pre-K and second grade!

What's for Dinner?...Not

2011-06-01T14:40:00.000-04:00

I don't diet anymore, I did enough of that in my high school, college, and post baby days.
BUT, I do like to put good things in my body. I want to be around for a long time and as much as I would like for it to, chocolate chip cookies and milk will not sustain me. So from time to time I will ~~make my husband suffer~~ try something new in health food world. A couple of years ago it was a detox method where all we ate was water, brown rice, fruit, and veggies. It doesn't sound all that bad, but after two weeks straight of it and it only you want to scream. Or either those around you want to scream at you cause you are so cranky. David is extremely cranky without sugar in his system and he will be the first to admit it too.

This time around my new fad has totally crossed the line. Here is what was on my grocery list:
Kale
Beets
Spinach
1/2 Apple
Sea Salt

First I made Kale chips. Chop it up and put on a baking sheet, sprinkle with sea salt and bake for 15 minutes. The first 4 I could handle but then it went down hill. I could feel it coming back up. Gotta stop. eek. Emily did seem to like them though

No fear I still have my "Power Juice" to make. Throw the kale, beets, spinach & apple in the blender and liquify. It takes some time and the color of it could fool you for sure. A real beaut- looks like it is a raspberry smoothie.

I poured it over ice and stuck a straw in it. I think I was subconciouisly already not breathing thru my nose in fear of smelling it. Three gulps. Not terrible. Fourth gulp I accidently breathed thru my nose and caught a whiff of it, but gulp anyways. Eeeeeek. Definitely going to come back up.

Whoever came up with this concoction was clearly out of their mind. Worst thing ever.

And if that wasn't bad enough, my house still smells like seaweed nastiness.

Meet Old Dan Tucker

2011-05-24T10:25:00.000-04:00

Does anyone know who Old Dan Tucker is? Maybe I am missing a piece of our great American history because I have no clue who he is except that he washes his face in a frying pan and comb's his hair with a wagon wheel.

Sam's end of the year program was last week and it had a cowboy theme, therefore he has been been in cowboy mode for weeks now. He insists that I call him Old Dan Tucker and he sings the song about this mystery man to everyone he meets. At one of Eli's baseball games he proceeded to sing it to everyone in the bleachers...individually. I am sure they all loved their private serenade...

Cousin Finley even got in on the fun!

Every cowboy needs a cowgirl.

This cowboy is now ready for Pre-K!

Keep Praying

2011-05-10T11:09:00.000-04:00

My sister & her husband have moved to Savannah Memorial Hospital for the next little while. She is 28 weeks pregnant and her water broke on Saturday night. If you want updates, leave comments of encouragement or let them know you are praying for them, please visit their blog. I know it would mean alot to them. Their faith in this whole situation is absolutely amazing.

What's for dinner?

2011-05-10T11:03:00.000-04:00

I think you are probably getting the picture that all we eat is mexican inspired meals around this house. I know I know they are all the exact same ingredients- cheese, tortillas, guac, beans, etc.- but some how they just keep calling us back for more.

This week is a little different though...a bit of mexican inspired sweetness- Churros!

We made this a family affair and Eli even said they were better than Taco Bell...gee thanks.
And on top of all the fun & deliciousness, they were cheap & easy!

Whatch need:
Box of puff pastry sheets
Butter
Cinnamon
Sugar

Lay out parchment paper on a cookie sheet and then the sheets of pastry. Cut the pastry into strips and then dip them into the melted butter and then coat them in the cinnamon/sugar mixture. Bake at 450 until golden...about 10 minutes.

Sorry for those of you that like exact measurments...just not my thing. I think I am too impatient. ha ha :)

SuperFriends

2011-04-28T14:21:00.001-04:00

Saturday was Sam's last game and I honestly was a little sad. Not sad about getting up at the crack of dawn on a Saturday morning and being eaten alive by gnats, but sad that I am going to have to wait until the fall to see my little man's face after he scores a goal.

Superfriends with their coaches Brian & David

(Sam, Bella, Annaleise, Zack, Sam, & Will)

Sam was so proud of his medal and continues to wear it around and then insists on finding the perfect place to hang it.

Here comes Peter Cotton Tail

2011-04-28T11:04:00.001-04:00

Easter is right up there with Christmas in my holiday rankings and David & I are truly privileged to get to host lunch at our house each year with firends and family. Here are a few of the highlights:

A week before having 50+ people at our house we decided to re-do the front porch. So typical of us I know! David knocked down the railings in less than 5 minutes- no joke. I had the tough part and sanded for two straight days. They were not original to our 1890 house I promise, plus rot was on its way. We love the new look and openess- it definitely gave us more space for our big group picture (see below).

Entrance of the Easter Bunny...it amazes me at just how EXCITED those kids get about seeing him. It probably helped that he was handing out candy.

Finally I got one shot of the big girls (Me & Kelly)! Normally it is all kiddos in the pictures- only problem is where are the rest of the big girls!?

One of my favorites of Amanda & Court with her sweet preggers belly.

Love this cute little thing. Mom did a killer job on the smocking too. She sweats like her mama.

Yes that is sweat...the boys are soaked, but at least everyone is smiling.

The boys and their cuz Finley!

I LOVE these people. And I am so fortunate to call them friends.

Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ will come again!

Holy Week Discussions

2011-04-22T08:22:00.000-04:00

The boys have asked alot of questions this week as we have been experiencing Holy Week. Most of these discussion happen in the car or the kitchen table, two places they are forced to sit and stay put. It began on Palm Sunday after they had processed into church waving palms.
Sam got into the car and was quite disappointed. When I asked him what was wrong, he said, "Jesus didn't come to church on his donkey." He really thought that Jesus in the flesh was coming to church on a donkey. He thought he was going to see Jesus.

Then Eli wanted to know why if Jesus was such a super hero and could do anything, why didn't he just fly away instead of being nailed to the cross.

This morning we were talking about it being Good Friday. Eli said it should be called Sad Friday instead of Good Friday.

Needless to say we have done alot of explaining and talking this week that I thought was years away. I am suprised by the thoughfulness of my two boys this week and interestingly, as simple as the questions have been, they have directed me to be more thoughtful this week in preparing for Resurrection Sunday.

Side note: When they talked about Maundy Thursday they said it with a moffia type accent. Hilarious.

The ballpark

2011-04-14T13:33:00.000-04:00

We are playing real ball now folks, no more t-ball for my 7 year old! Our team, A-Z Enterprises, had a victory Monday night and yet all I managed to capture on my camera were the three pictures below.
Eli hit the ball for the first time off of the pitching machine- I think it suprised him, he stood there awestruck but then made it safely to second base! I WILL get a picture of him next week.

Emily & Hannah

The single moment that Sam actually sat with us. Their is a gang of siblings that play hard during the games.

Moments before a melt down.

Next week we will be more prepared with food/drink for Em. :)

What's for dinner?

2011-04-04T11:24:00.000-04:00

I come from a long line of mexican food junkies. My Nanny & Papaw eat at Rome's famous Las Palmas AT LEAST twice a week. And my dad eats jalapenos like they are candy. The kids are following the trend too...Sam would eat sour cream like it was ice cream if I let him and salsa is a good way for me to get Eli some veggies :) It counts right?

My mom & Nanny

Papaw & E

GMC & Sam

While I do LP is my mexican restauraunt of choice, it is a good 6-7 hours away. And since we don't wat out a whole lot with 3 kids (it is just not that enjoyable folks) I am forced to try and make some yummy mexican food in m own kitchen.

Our standard are quesdillas, but we are mixing it up this week. Wow, I know!

Enjoy this super good, easy & cheap meal.

Cheesy B's (Cheesy Black Bean Burritos)

Tortillas

Black Beans (drained & rinsed)

Mexican Shredded Cheese

Romaine Lettuce (chopped)

Salsa (see below)

Put all ingredients in the tortilla, wrap it up and pop it in the microwave! Serve with some avacado if you are high dollar, those jokers are expensive but oh so good.

My favorite salsa:

I am not hating in the store bought, I use it all the time, but a friend made this for me one time and it is my go to recipe and a summertime staple.

2 large cans of whole tomatoes

1 jalapeno

handful of fresh cilantro

onion

salt

The best part is that no chopping necessary. Dump the tomatoes in your food processor, pop of the jalapeno stem, pull the leaves off the cilantro, and peel the onion. Pulse it all until chopped and well blended.

My chips of choice? Mission Tortillas Strips. Tostitos are way over rated.

Enjoy!

Listening to...

2011-03-22T13:35:00.001-04:00

I am by no means a music junkie or professional critic, but music is definitely a part of my life. I can't sing, haven't touched a guitar in years, and I pawned my high school band instrument, BUT music makes my life better. It can instantly change your mood...the task of washing dishes, laundry, vaccuming or exercising are so much more enjoyable when you are belting it out.

I thought it would be fun to share my current playlist like Kara (I am sure there are some repeats). No judging people...this music is fun and it makes for a great workout.
Cooler than Me- Mike Posner

Dog Days are Over- Florence + The Machine

Dynamite- Taio Cruz

Forget You- Cee Lo Green

Your Love is My Drug- Ke$ha

Mercy- Duffy

Loser like Me- Glee Cast

Empire State of Mind- Jay-Z

Shut Your Eyes- Snow Patrol

Just Couldn't Tie Me Down- The Black Keys

My Moon My Man- Feist

Ressurect Me- Jon Foreman

I Feel It All- Feist

Raise Your Glass- Glee Cast Version

Rain King- Counting Crows

It's Beginning to Get to Me- Snow Patrol

Duffy is my favorite of the week. Love her sound and recreation of this classic.
Go get your sweat on!

I have a 7 year old.

2011-03-17T10:51:00.000-04:00

I have a hard time believing it too.

Eli is has a mind of his own no doubt and while he is quite the hard headed child, he is incredibly compassionate and a care-taker. He is inquisitive, artistic and a natural leader.

Our family would not be the same about him. He has already taught me more about life in his 7 years than I will ever be able to teach him.

Happy Birthday to my toothless boy!

We celebrated at Jekyll Island last weekend with some friends, a pinata, and yes a volcano cake.

Cold, but fun times!

Hello Spring

2011-03-01T10:33:00.002-05:00

I love humidity...call me crazy but it does a body good. I am sure I will be complaining about it come August, but I really do love it. Your skin stays hydrated, your hair looks thicker, and it makes an ice cold glass of water taste oh so good.

Here are a few pictures of us breathing it in...

And one more of my sweet boys at breakfast...

What's for dinner?

2011-02-23T15:57:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness it's Wednesday and my family can eat at church.

Cause all that is in my fridge is whole milk and paint brushes.

Stop 'Till You Drop

2011-02-20T21:30:00.001-05:00

so this is what teenagers are doing these days...
pretty talented stop motion video. totally makes me want to make one.
looks like way more fun than hanging out in the mall or the movie theater, which is all I did as a teenager

A favor

2011-02-15T21:29:00.000-05:00

I had a favor to ask one of my 707 girls this morning. Eliza was the lucky girl. (Coming up on Thursday at Grace Graffiti you can see just what that favor might be.) Turns out she needed a favor too. I was more than happy to help and actually ended up having alot of fun thinking about and answering these questions. So...I thought you might too. Feel free to comment back anything you want to share or answer. It could be fun :)
And don't laugh if you think my answers are super cheesy...well, go ahead and laugh. I am okay with that.

Message from Eliza: ( She is a sophmore at Frederica Academy)
Okay in literature class, which this is pretty random, we are doing a survey about love. I have to interview an adult who is over the age of 25 and is not in my family, so I picked you. There are 14 questions and you don't have to go into great detail on them, just write a sentence or two. Some of them are kind of personal, so just answer them if you feel comfortable.

1. How do you define love?
it is not an emotion or butterfly feeling, it is a state of the mind, body & soul.

2. What percentage of people do you think experience true love?
I would like to think that everyone at some point in their lives experiences true love. Sadly the reality is that that is probably not true...maybe 75% experience true love?

3. What is the difference between love, like, and lust?
Love is self-sacrificing...you are more concerned with the other persons well being than your own.

4. How is jealousy related to love?
If you are truly in love, I don't think there is any deep rooted jealousy present. There is never a question of the others intentions.

5. Can we love someone more than ourselves? Why or why not?
Most definitely. It is much easier to love my husband sometimes than it is to love myself.

6. What makes love successful?
I hesistate to use the word "successful" when talking about love. I think a love relationship needs constant attention detail and a high degree of intentionality.

7. What causes love to end?
Dishonesty, with yourself, with each other, with your children, with everyone around you. The most important one though is with yourself.

8. Have you ever been in love?
Only once.

9. With who?
My husband of 8 years.

10. How did you meet?
At Reinhardt College in 1999. He was on stage playing with his band...dark vintage plaid collared shirt, jeans, dark hair, dark eyes and instant attraction.

11. How did you know you were in love?
He respected me and made me want to be a better person. And we laughed all the time.

12. What does love feel like?
Being able to relax and know that I am fully loved and fully known.

13. Are you still with the person? Why or why not?
Yes and will be till the day I die.

14. Does/did love cause you to view yourself differently? How?
Most definitely. I try to see myself the way that my husband sees me. I would probably have a lot more confidence if I could do that all the time. He encourages me to be the person I was created to be.

So there ya go. Thanks for making me think about this Eliza.

It's been 11 years

2011-02-14T15:49:00.000-05:00

This is our 11th valentine's day together. Some have been pretty elaborate, some have had sickness, and some have been just right. David knows me better than anyone and I think I know him just as well.

So what did we get each other for the big love day?

For David...shhh he doesn't know yet.

And for me...nothing says love like fiber.

Happy Heart Day everyone.

What's for Dinner?

2011-02-11T14:06:00.000-05:00

This week my fav is a little dish inspired by Giada.
Many of you might think that I have totally botched this incredible recipe...and while I make it completely different from the famous chef I promise it is still good.
But like I said in my first What's for Dinner post, I like it fast, cheap & easy.

Turkey Orzo
box of orzo (it's pasta people)
turkey sausage links, the big fat ones that come two to a pack
chicken stock
green bell pepper
cherry tomatoes
garlic
olive oil
mozzerella cheese

saute the chopped bell pepper in olive oil. add the sliced turkey and minced garlic. meanwhile cook the orzo in water & chicken broth and add some salt. lastly add the cherry tomatoes that have been cut in half. put it all together and then sprinkle with some cheese.

i feel like I am forgetting something...hmm. And the beautiful think is you can substitute it however you like. Maybe some mushrooms or asparagus?

enjoy!

Aging

2011-02-07T10:04:00.000-05:00

My 30th birthday is just around the corner. I have honestly been dreading leaving my twenties...for lots of different reasons, the same that most women don't like about getting older so I am not going to bother listing them.
But I heard something this weekend that will forever change my mind about the subject.

Aging is a privilege.

Wowsers. Bring on the birthdays.

What's for dinner?

2011-02-02T16:28:00.000-05:00

Everyone needs help with menu ideas to feed your hungry families.
I like them to be cheap.
I like them to be fast.
I like them to be easy.

You won't find any delicious and gourmet meals on this blog like you would at What Kara's Cooking. I mean please look at the picture of her amaretto cheesecake. Yum.

What you will find it a super easy weeknight meal that may just help you catch a break with your menu planning. I hope so...and if it turns out terrible and your kids/spouse hate it, don't tell me. I know I am no Martha.

So first up? One of my favorites that a good friend cooked for my family. (See these aren't even my original ideas).

Black Bean & Spinach Quesadillas

large tortillas
can of black beans, rinsed & drained
fresh spinach
shredded cheese of choice

lay out a tortilla and throw on a layer of spinach, spoon on a layer of black beans, and then throw on your cheese

grill it until golden

top with salsa, sour cream, and if you want to get real fancy you can add avacados and serve with a side of yellow rice

Seriously, we eat this at least once a week!

Happy Birthday Emily

2011-01-24T10:30:00.000-05:00

Super hard to believe that Em is already one.

Finally a chance to bring a little pink in the house and we definitely went all out with the pink tu-tu, cause every girl needs one right? Thanks mom!

I love her approach to her first cupcake. Very ladylike...

But once she had her first bite it was all over...

Happy first birthday sweet girl!

Birthday Banner How-to

2011-01-18T16:01:00.003-05:00

I have caught the blog fever lately and if I am not careful I spend way too much time looking at strangers blogs. No I am not a creeper, but just really inspired when I read other women's blogs and how they incorporate crafts and art into their everyday occassions and lives.
I LOVE how everyone is so giving of their time and talents in order to teach others. And while I am no expert, I am going to try and do the same for you...all two of you.
This "how-to" blogging is going to also be featured on grace graffiti on a pretty regular basis. So you guys are the guinea pigs with this first one. If you have some time, give me some feedback and let me know how I can improve.
Topics hopefully to come? I have a few up my sleeves, but I am open to any ideas you might have as well. Here goes....

Personalized Birthday Banner

Supplies:

2 Small buckets, vases, or your container of choice

Sticky back felt letters

Felt Squares

Ribbon

Wooden Dowel

Green Fabric Sponges

Hot Glue Gun

Scissors

You can uses any color, font of letters, and ribbon.

I bought all of this at Michaels except for the dowel, found it in my shed, but you can get them at any hardware store.

Cut elongated triangles in a row.

Then come back and cut straight across, this will save you time.

Peel off the back of the letters and place on the pennants.

Lay out your pennants and measure out your ribbon, giving yourself enough to attach it to the dowels, maybe an inch or two. You will need to have the same number of pennants on each row, so you can use blanks ones on the ends.

Put a small amount of glue across the top of each pennant and place the ribbon on top...remember that the glue will be super hot! (I have burned myself WAY too many times.)

Continue this for each word separately.

Cut more ribbon and glue it to the backside of the banner.

Glue the three separate banners to the wooden dowels in a continuous zig-zag. Let it completely dry. Then cut your floral green sponge to the appropriate size and place in your container. Stick your dowels into the sponges and make sure they are secure.

If not, you may need to add some hot glue to the bottom

of the container.

Finally you can add your topping of choice or whatever you might have around the house. I lucked up in my gift wrapping box and found some pink & white riff-raff.

Ta-da!

And remember that perfection is over-rated.

I think that may be my new motto...at least when it comes to all things crafty and domestic.

Happy crafting!

And don't forget to give me some feedback so I can improve :)

Publix I'm a comin

2011-01-18T15:53:00.003-05:00

This is so the new sandwich.

Just wait and see, they are going to be popping up all over gourmet deli's.

Nothing like turkey & cheese grilled on a hot dog bun.

Happy Anniversary to me.

2011-01-15T20:16:00.003-05:00

A cold day in Rome, Ga.

A cold day in Winter Park, CO

And for the 8 years in between my husband has kept me warm.
(bring on the cheese, I know)

they do love each other.

2011-01-06T16:30:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas Shamu

2010-12-29T14:58:00.002-05:00

We look like we are freezing, but it really wasn't so bad.

We had on layers upon layers of clothes and thanks to IKEA a new blanket.

This is just about the sweetest picture ever. Sam & Emily really bonded on the trip. Eli & Emily already have this special big brother little sis thing going on, but it was fun to see Sam & Em develop something unique too. They are definitely going to have more of a "buddy/friendship" type relationship. So sweet.

Emily was a wiggle worm before all the shows, but had lots of fun entertaining all those around her. Once the shows started though, she was glued!

Sam was pretty quiet in the park all day. When we asked him what was up he responded that he was being quiet for all the animals. He didn't want to scare them away.

So glad the stomach bug didn't keep us away from Sea World!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-29T14:34:00.003-05:00

Christmas Eve couldn't have been more perfect. We all slept late (as in 7:30am), lounged around drinking several cups of coffee, the kiddos all helped in prepping breakfast for Christmas morning, and excitement was building for the big day.

That is until midnight when the stomach bug hit our house with a vengence.

So not fun.

First David. 5 hours later me. 5 hours later Eli.

I can hardly remember the day...but when you have kids you have to push through and try your best to put on a smile. So these are the few pictures that were taken.

I am thinking about making them reinact everything.

Sam was just so excited for anyone and everyone getting to open a present.

The coolest drinking glasses ever.
More ginger ale please.

Thankfully Emily was spared and she had much fun loving on her new baby doll.

It was a true Christmas miracle and we were able to pull it together and
get back in bed that night at 8pm (ALL of us).
We kicked that stomach bug to the curb and headed to Sea World the next day!

Emily

2010-12-23T14:29:00.001-05:00

Her personality is really coming out these days...

Need Stocking Stuffers?

2010-12-20T14:33:00.001-05:00

Then go ahead and click on grace graffiti on the right. Taking orders until tomorrow.

Next time

2010-12-14T17:14:00.002-05:00

Next time David is sick I will be way more sympathetic. I have sympathy for my children when they are ill of course, but I admit that I am not the greatest at taking care of David when the time calls.
Last week he had a throat infection or something of that nature and I did what I had to do to help the hub out and take care of the rest of the house, but I wasn't as kind and loving as I should have been.
Well I the sick bug is getting me back as I have been laid up in the bed all day with a version of whatever he had last week. Pain in my neck, head, congestion, and one sore throat. But who has been tending to my every need all day and feeding children, bathing them, picking them up from school, running errands for me, and managing to get some of his office work done?
That's right...my dear hubz.
I promise I will take care of you much better next time. Which may come pretty soon since you have to have your tonsils out.
Thank you.

holiday biz-ar

2010-12-08T12:53:00.003-05:00

Grace Graffiti made its craft festival debut this past Saturday at the Brunswick Holiday Bazaar. Kelly & I, along with our husbands (they didn't have a choice) worked our tails off on Friday night and got up way to early on a cold Saturday morning to be a part of it. While it wasn't exactly the type of craft show we had anticipated, it was a good learning experience and now we have all of our displays ready to go for the next one!

We will be a little more selective in the future...the table behind us was selling used shoes from the 70s for $5. They were not vintage cute either. (see picture in the middle)

Be sure to check out the special of the week at http://www.gracegraffiti.com/ -limited supply at this special price!

Lighting of the Christmas Tree

2010-12-04T21:04:00.003-05:00

Tis the season for Christmas Festivals! The whole family made it out this year to the Jekyll Island Lighting of the Tree. Our 80 degree weather the day before turned quickly to cold the day of, which made it feel like Christmas!

Finley & Emily all smiles.

Emmy loves Eli

Request from Santa? Hot wheels race track x2.

Me and my big sis.

She is such a happy little thing. I don't know how much longer the hats and bows are going to make it. She is starting to notice them and ripping them off.

Snowman Sam

The whole family minus David...somebody had to take the picture.

Big Smile

2010-12-01T14:40:00.003-05:00

I have wreaths piled high on my dining room table. There are random bits of strings all over my glossy black hardwood floor. My nails look ragged and I have a few wire/needle pricks in my fingers. And somehow I manage to get burlap fuzz in my mouth at least once a day.

But there is a big smile on my face.

Some of my friends (Kelly & Suzanne) & I have just started a business and we are loving every minute of it! We have all thought and dreamed about having our own business one day and with online capabilites that one day is today.

Check us out at www.gracegraffiti.com.

And if you are local be sure to come out to the holiday bazar at Mary Ross Waterfront Park this Saturday from 8-5pm.

I want one...

2010-11-30T16:50:00.003-05:00

...but my insurance company would drop my coverage. i love trampolines though...and this picture of David that I took. I promise it has not been edited.

Country Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T15:40:00.002-05:00

We spent Thanksgiving in a suburb of Hahira...dirt roads, wide open spaces, fresh air, and horses. The kiddos were in heaven being with all their cousins too.

We enjoyed the trampoline too...more on that in another post.

Sam & Barrow...partners in crime.

Sweetheart Emma playing with Emily

The whole crew

Emma, Sarah, Anna Leigh, Julia, Sam

Barrow, Hallie, Emily, Eli

I did it.

2010-11-30T14:41:00.002-05:00

I am shocked that I got this picture. Sam wouldn't get on a horse a couple of weeks ago at the Wesley Round Up and he has just recently warmed up to our horse of a dog Rufus. But nothing like a little peer pressure and seeing all his cousins do it. I love that proud smile.

Before & After

2010-11-27T10:59:00.002-05:00

We have been dreaming of having a piano in our house for years. Well David's mom caught wind of that dream and made it happen for us! It is in our dining room and fits wonderfully, but you know I am going to have to do a little rearranging and painting! Here is the before:

I was super nervous when David started taking things apart, but as always he wants to figure out how everything works and fix whtever is broken. I hear he gets that from his grandfather.

I have never seen the inside of a piano, so I was pretty amazed at the skill it took to make it.
I even broke out a needle and thread to sow back some leather straps.

I am sure that any piano "people" reading this are shuddering at our project, but hey it is in tune for the most part and David got it all put back together!

After: (just pretend there is a small side table between the chair and the piano, oh and we are still working on the bench)

I have already enjoyed hearing the boys playing and creating music!

Thanks Kaye!

Proud To Be An American

2010-11-18T22:12:00.002-05:00

Tonight was the First Grade musical at St. Simons Elementary, and Eli had a speaking part. He was Narrarator #8 in "Proud to be an American." I'm sure Broadway will be calling any minute, and without a doubt he should have a couple of commercials under his belt by the new year. In all seriousness though, he did a great job and didn't seem nervous at all. Don't take my word though, take a look...

First Aid

2010-11-15T21:04:00.002-05:00

I think I need to amp up my first aid kit a bit. Lately it seems the boys are requiring more and more bandaids of all shapes and sizes along with the requests for foam, spray, and other germ killer things and cream. I just don't remember my knees ever looking this bad as a child...I am guessing this is a boy thing.

Ouch!

Eli isn't much phased by it though. His knees pretty much look like this constantly.

The boy loves to play, especially with concrete.

I heart Rufus

2010-11-09T19:40:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday Rufus.

I love animals, but I wouldn't describe myself as an animal lover. Definitely never wanted to be a veternarian or anything. I was a major cat person growing up...like every picture of me in elementary school I was cuddling with a cat. I digress...

I am so happy that Rufus is a part of our crew, it wouldn't be the same with the big bear of a dog.

Trick or Treat II

2010-10-31T20:43:00.003-04:00

The whole family...Eli really wanted us to dress up and since we didn't, he told us who we were on the way to the Robersons. He stated that David was Peter Pan since he had on a green shirt and orange hat and that I was Fancy Nancy. Not really sure why, but I went with it.

This is before we started trick or treating...

let's just say you could hear us coming down the street.

"But mommy, why can't I have any candy yet?"

This is my favorite picture of the night.

Trick or Treat

2010-10-31T20:34:00.004-04:00

I love Halloween. Sugar highs and all.

Scuba Diver Sam (3 Years old)

And yes, he came up with this costume all on his own.

Super Eli (6 years old)

And Super Emily (9 months old)

Happy #2

2010-10-30T13:21:00.002-04:00

Finley is 2 and the Bridges know how to celebrate!

Friday night was a small family pizza party, where Finley got the little table below!

Finley was very sweet and didn't mind too much when

her cousin took multiple bites out of her apple.

The festivities continued this morning with a mani & pedi party with all the girls at Rosalee's.

Fin was super excited and Emily even had her toes painted sparkly purple!

Professional Day

2010-10-27T20:55:00.002-04:00

It is Red Ribbon Week at St. Simons Elementary and that always calls for some crazy themed days. We have had polka dot day, sunglasses day, and today was professional day. He loves animals and the ocean so he decided that he would be a professional DNR (Dept. of Natural Resources) biologist. So if you are a fisherman or hunter, here is a glimpse of your future.

Blog 2 Print

2010-10-26T11:00:00.002-04:00

A company that I dreamed up in my head does exist...I found www.blog2print.com
and am more than thrilled. I just ordered a couple of blog books- you type in your http and your password and it pulls all your blog info through and compiles it into a book. You can edit it how ever you like, choose your cover/colors, etc. I went cheapo and did a soft cover black and white pictures. All of my 2009 blogs are in one book for less than $15. Free shipping and today only you can get 15% off with code bookme15.
Super fast, super easy, and now I don't have to worry about ever losing any of my memories!
Go check it out!!!

A Chamber Weekend

2010-10-24T15:45:00.002-04:00

We had the pleasure of having our good friends the Uricks (missionchange) with us all weekend. Everyone had a fun- us and the kiddos. I planned on snapping some shots of the kiddos, but they were running around all over the place I just wasn't quick enough to get a picture. So here's us instead- Me & LaDonna above and Todd & David below.
We spent most of the weekend outside since it was gorgeous! Todd & David took the big kids (Eli & Emma kayaking Saturday morning and we met them for a picnic on the beach. Grilled fish last night, went to church...it couldn't have been better...a true Chamber weekend as Todd would say. Can't wait till they come back!

Uh-Oh

2010-10-14T21:23:00.003-04:00

This is so for grandparents/family...it will not be as amusing to the rest of y'all!

Please try to drown out my annoying voice.

Near/Far

2010-10-14T19:12:00.002-04:00

Some of you may have heard me talk about my dear friend Candice. It has been almost 8 years since we have physically been near. It is amazing at just how close she feels sometimes even though I am here and she is across the great Atlantic in Jinja, Uganda.

Candice and I served together the summer before my junior year in college at Charleston Outreach in North Charleston. We were roommates and both served as migrant ministers. From the first week I knew that she was special. I knew that she was called to the international mission field. She was only 16 and from Missouri, but I felt like I had so much to learn from her.

I am continuing to learn from her and Bobby. Their ministry is so different, so intense, so real. So life changing. I am talking generational change.

I just hope that one day we get to take a trip to see them...wherever they are.

Click here to read their blog.

Seeds

2010-09-27T09:47:00.001-04:00

Here's David's thoughts on some new changes for our family. Click here.

Sheet Monster

2010-09-16T20:14:00.003-04:00

This video is from last January. I ran across it today and had to post. Makes me laugh everytime...David thinks he is going to scare the boys, but instead gets it pretty good from Eli- more than once.

Impromptu Photo Session

2010-09-13T13:54:00.004-04:00

Saturday night we packed a picnic and headed to the beach to meet up with the Robersons. It was super relaxing and we were the only ones on the beach. There is something about going to the beach that is so refreshing. Kiddos were playing great and we were able to have adult conversation! Kelly pulled out her camera and snap these amazing shots the the emily and the boys. I will definitely be taking a trip to the store to buy some frames to put these precious pictures in!! Thanks Kelly!

More pictures....

2010-09-13T13:45:00.002-04:00

Snip Snip

2010-09-09T20:25:00.002-04:00

So recently I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. It is not a big deal...basically I just have to take a small pill every morning for the rest of my life and regularly have my thyroid levels checked out. The ick part about it all? I have been losing my hair.

Now don't go judging me for even complaining about it. I am well aware that it is not that bad, especially when there are cancer patients out there that are losing it all along with eyelashes and eyebrows. I think it has just taken me by suprise that I am bothered so much by thinning/loss of hair. I have never been a big "hair person," I mean I wash and fix it, people, but it never defined me. Well it got so bad earlier this week that I made the decision to chop it all off today.

Ta-da....

I am feeling alot better about it and shortening it up really does make it feel thicker.

I crossed the line

2010-09-04T16:57:00.002-04:00

Eli is a proud student of St. Simons Elementary and therefore we went to the PTA/Cirriculum Night last week to see what he has been up too the past couple of weeks at school. Everyone had gathered in the gym and the meeting had not began, so I was trying to entertain Sam. He was on my knees and I was doing that old song, "this is how the lady-gentleman- cowboy rides" where I bounce him up and down. Keep in mind that it was noisy in the gym with alot of different things going on. It was not quiet by any means and no one was paying any attention to Sam & I.

Except Eli. He leaned over and quietly and politely asked me to stop. I asked him why. He said I was embarassing him.

That was a first.

At the closing of the meeting though Sam in all his innocence had me trying to hold in my laughter. He had sat through the 30 minutes of talking very well and was even listening. How do I know he was listening?? When Mrs. Clements (the principal) asked if any one had any more questions, Sam said very loudly, "No, I don't have any questions, thank you."

For him to have been so stinking quiet and reserved his first couple of years of life, he sure is making up for it these days.

Smarty Pants

2010-08-26T13:34:00.003-04:00

On the way to school this morning we were pumping Eli up about the day and his math test. David and I were encouraging him by talking about how smart he is, etc. and then Sam joined in the conversation, saying

"I'm real smart too....you know why I'm so smart? Because I ate Smarties yesterday."

Ruff

2010-08-24T10:14:00.003-04:00

I think Emily has been hanging out with Rufus (our dog) a little too much.

The picture doesn't capture her shaking her head back and forth but believe me friends, it happens.

I am now officially 3

2010-08-24T09:45:00.002-04:00

We have been doing alot of celebrating at our house for Sam's 3rd birthday and it ended Sunday with a little party and a huge monster truck cake.

Happy Birthday Sam!

My School Boys

2010-08-21T14:32:00.002-04:00

Sam started Montessori on Monday and Eli started 1st Grade on Thursday. I think everyone was ready for school sto start since we have been out a full three months!

Eli wasn't so sure about 1st grade when we talked about it this summer. Not having snacktime was a big concern of his. But when I got him from the bus Thursday afternoon he exclaimed he loved first grade and he loved his teacher. Whew.
He has already made alot of new friends and so have I. A new family has moved to town and they live around the corner from us. They have a 5th grade son and a cute little girl who is in Kindergarten. We are looking forward to a fun year at SSE!

Sam loves his school too. He talks alot about Jordie and Walker and adores Mr. Robert, Mrs. Sandra, and Ms. Lori. It is good to be back at Montessori this year, they are all like family and I am thrilled that Sam gets to learn from the Ussery's.

I love school and all the stories the boys tell me when they get home. I am also loving getting some one on one time with Emily too. She sure does get excited when see sees them though- I think she misses the attention they give her!

Happy Birthday Sam

2010-08-21T14:26:00.000-04:00

Sam is 3! I think we have been celebrating his birthday for like a month. It started with a last minute trip to Orlando a couple of weeks ago. And when I say last minute it truly was- we decided at 4:30pm on Friday afternoon and were pulling up to the Animal Kingdom Lodge just before 10:00pm. I am pretty impressed that we pulled of the spontenaity with three kiddos.

We used it as an opportunity to celebrate Sam turning three and he loved wearing his Birthday Button all over the place. We didn't go to any parks, but hung out at the pool and Downtown Disney. I think he loved it along with the rest of us.

Starfish

2010-08-06T11:14:00.000-04:00

Ahhh...summer.

How cute am I?

2010-08-05T19:53:00.000-04:00

House full of Herndons

2010-08-04T14:07:00.002-04:00

We had the privilege of Emma & Hallie coming to stay with us last week. They are David's older brother Joe's girls. We hit up the Jekyll, tried to out run the rain at Driftwood Beach, watched some Backyardigans, ate pizza, decorated cookies, and finished it off with a trip to the zoo. I wish these cuties lived a little closer because we sure do love those Herndons. Oh I must add that I did not do it alone just in case you were thinking I was a super mom...Grandmother (Kaye) was here as well and it couldn't have been done without her!

At the Jax Zoo

I think this two are really looking alike these days.

They were all about holding their newest cousin.

Sam & Hallie waiting to feed the giraffes.

Eli & Emma

Posterboard please

2010-07-24T21:46:00.002-04:00

Do students still use posterboards? That was my go to in high school for projects, etc. In fact I think using posterboard was a requirement for most assignments that needed a visual display. I can remember breaking out the sharpies, counstruction paper, and glitter...I am guessing that these days in high school they just use computers. Man are they missing out on some crafty fun...

So why am I taking a trip down memory lane? Tonight I feel like I need to breakout some posterboard, sharpies, and glitter and make myself a visual to hang in my house. I re-read a small excerpt from one of my go to books and it really stopped me in my tracks and encouraged me in the parenting of my boys.

A child should be allowed the freedom to surrender with dignity. A child will often defy a parent when the parent makes the option of surrender intolerable. That is, a child will persist in wrong behavior if the parent doesn't give his or her the room to surrender with dignity. That's wisdom parenting, not power parenting. The dignity of your child, even in correction, must be preserved. Correct graciously.

My posterboard is going to say:
Correct graciously and let him surrender with dignity.

I think Eli will let me borrow his glitter pens...

Shake what your mama gave you

2010-07-21T20:52:00.001-04:00

A Day in V-town

2010-07-21T15:13:00.003-04:00

Took a little visit to Valdosta this weekend...here are the highlights.

Eli is really looking forward to being 16.

My sweethearts.

If I am real honest, feeding Emily her peas is not my favorite activity with her these days.

I know she is cute, but for all the peas you see on her there are just as many on me and the floor. (Blowing rasberries is her newest trick).

Big heads run in my family

2010-07-14T14:25:00.002-04:00

Sam must of thought the Carter big head trait skipped him.

After sticking his head through the railings he discovered he is just like the rest of us.

The Fourth

2010-07-11T15:14:00.000-04:00

I love these kiddos...

One of the best yet.