The McCay Family Adventures

Dawn

2012-02-02T21:43:00.001-06:00

Oh the pitfalls to learning to read the English language. It is really amazing that any of us learn to read.

And the cold hard truth is that being from The Great South doesn't make it any easier.

In college I worked with a first grade struggling reader for one of my courses. One of my lessons was teaching the short e and contrasting the sound with the short i. You know, in words like pen and pin and ten and tin.

I spent a ridiculous amount of time saying those words into a mirror and trying to hear the difference myself. You try it. No really, I'll wait. Go ahead try and hear the difference in the short e and short i in those words.

Oh, you don't hear it? Now make yourself a beginning reader still trying to learn how to isolate sounds in words. Impossible.

At this point Walker is just breaking the reading code and following the simple rules he has learned. I am treading lightly.

With our curriculum we are getting to the point where Walker is reading words on his own. One of the assignments is to choose a word from a list and write the word and illustrate it.

The first word he chose - Don. He asked me how to draw it. I told him to draw Don however he wanted to.

I come back in and find him coloring wildly with a red and orange crayon.

Me - "Umm, buddy? What are you doing? How is this a picture of Don?"

Him - "You know, don, like when the sun comes up and it goes from dark to sunshine."

Me - "Right - dawn" - Well - (I say to myself - dawn, don, dawn, don) - and ever so slight difference, but "yes dear that is exactly the word those sounds make. Good job."

Some days I feel like I am banging my head on the wall. Like the progress we are making is so slow he might never be an independent reader. But here - I see the light breaking through the darkness. He decoded, matched the sounds with words he knows, and assigned it a meaning. That is reading folks.

We will work on the more complicated vowel patterns like the /aw/ at some point. For now, I'll encourage my little southern reader as much as I can.

Eleven

2012-02-01T15:30:00.001-06:00

Time keeps marching on.

Even this deep into it we are still discovering what this whole "one flesh" thing is all about.

Our tenth anniversary was spent wining and dining and indulging as just the two of us. This year was spent with our little family. Our little physical representations of one flesh drinking chocolate milk and eating sandwiches. There was him and me and now there is them.

It is pretty amazing.

This year has been quite the adventure for us individually, as a couple and as a family. So much has been stretched, molded and changed. But, back at our anniversary, back at the moment for reflection we are that much closer than we ever dreamed possible.

I love you more each day, my dear.

To all the years yet to come...

*Top photo courtesy of Synergy Photography.
*Second photo, just to have a little reminder of how we spent our eleventh anniversary.

The Oldest is Now Older - On Being 6

2012-01-25T20:48:00.001-06:00

Walker is growing and becoming this person. This baby who made me a momma just keeps getting better and better.

He never forgets anything. He loves structure and traditions. If we do something one year for a holiday he expects it the next.

He will be hurried for no one. Enough said.

He is a sweet sensitive one. He has difficulty drawing the line between pretend and reality in books, tv or movies. I have to be careful when talking to him about the realities of this fallen world without destroying his fragile innocence.

He has big plans for each day. Most every morning he wakes me up by tiptoeing into my room and standing by the bed. When I become aware of someone standing beside the bed and I peak open my eyes he whispers, "mommy I want my breakfast." Every. Day.

He will eat almost anything, but his favorite food is a cheeseburger. He calls the chicken sandwich at Chick-fil-a the chicken burger so even where they do not serve burgers he can still order one.

His newest favorites are Legos and Transformers, but he still spends a good amount of time designing and building train layouts. He says he is going to be a train engineer when he grows up.

He is breaking the phonics code. He is reading some simple words. He has finally started drawing figures. He is great at math. He is is most interested in the science and history. He absorbs everything we learn so much that I have to make sure I'm telling/reading the right thing because it immediately becomes fact.

He turned 6 and we celebrated his milestone. Because, 6, wow. That is such a big kid, and he is.

And every time {every time} I ask my big kid 6 year old to smile for the camera. This is the face I get:

And because it's fun to look back:
Walker at 5 and Walker at 4 and Walker at 3 and Walker at 2 and Walker at 1 and In the Beginning

Soaking It In

2012-01-18T21:29:00.000-06:00

Today I tossed the kids in the big bathtub for a mid-day swim.

And someone was a camera hog.

Dried off all the little monsters.

Dried off 30 pruney toes.

And thanked God for the beautiful sunshine streaming through the windows and hoped it would warm up the air for a bit out outside play soon.

Snap Shots

2012-01-11T21:46:00.000-06:00

It is amazing that attached to a cell phone (which is frequently attached to me) is a fantastic camera allows me to document these fleeting moments of our life.

All the moments are not spectacular, but the ones that are I want to remember.

Watching this precious child play with his shadow

Backyard sunshine in January

One day he won't need my presence to peacefully fall asleep, but on this day he did and I savored it.

Sometimes we call him Little Napoleon. He knows how to get his way. It is hilarious that this picture happen to illustrate the king of the castle.

Momma ran her first race. And a clown nose was the best prize ever.

Daddy worked on the yard and Eli was thrilled to assist.

And maybe my favorite instagram ever.

Or this one.

So grateful that my phone (!) gives me such a fantastic way to document these details of life.

Christmas Celebrating 2011

2011-12-30T21:41:00.000-06:00

We were blessed with an amazing season. There was much joy and we really did slow down and enjoy our time together.

Santa came.

Christmas Morning in moving pictures.

There was much family celebrating.

Can you pick out the silliest kid in the picture? Because I can, and I don't believe he is a kid at all.

And who doesn't play minute to win it games with grandparents for the privilege of opening or stealing an amazing dirty Santa gift? {such as a copy of OJ's book}

Christmas 2011

2011-12-23T19:56:00.000-06:00

I love receiving everyone's beautiful Christmas cards this time of year. I appreciate the effort each of you makes to send out your well wishes for the holidays.

However, if you are looking for ours in return, stop looking. One year I hope to send out cards, that year is not this one. Sorry!

So here is your virtual Christmas card:

"...I came that you may have life and have it abundantly." John 10:10

Praying that you find joy in The One who came as a lowly babe so that you

might be joy filled in him this day, this hour, this moment!

Bonus Card:

Christmas in the South. There is nothing like it.

Because we are beyond pleased to be spending this special time with those we love so dearly.

Future Possibilies

2011-11-23T10:01:00.000-06:00

Walker: Class of 2028

Eli: Class of 2029

Colin: Class of 2031

The Loveliest Village on the Plains

2011-11-21T11:18:00.001-06:00

Auburn is not a football team or a place on a map. It is so much more than that. Jason and I loved our time there and it will always be a part of how our family began.

It is a joy to take the boys to Auburn. They have been a couple of times, but this was the first time we were able to take them into the stadium for a game.

We can check that off the life list.

Serious game watching.

Watching the eagle fly and eating a banana.

Watching the pre-game festivities. (Warning - people other than myself and my grandma (hi, grandma!) will find this to be the most boring video ever)

Zero boys looking at the camera.

I feel confident that at some point Colin will participate in a family picture, but not on this day.

As we were walking back to our friends' house Walker turned to me and said, "I want to stay in Auburn. I like it here. Can we live here for a little while?" I told him we could arrange a 4 year stay, and he said that would be great.

War Eagle

I Fear No Road Trip

2011-11-04T14:36:00.000-05:00

My kids are great car travelers. Given the right mix of snacks, movies, music and restroom breaks they are quite the troopers.

So last Friday the kids and I headed to Atlanta to see my grandparents, with the right mix of the aforementioned necessities.

One of the great things about being on this side of the country is most of our family is just a day trip away. {don't worry great-grandparents not yet seen, the holiday season is upon us and your turn is near}

The entire way there we listened to music on my phone. I was pretty impressed with the music on my iPhone. I don't really look at what is there, but just load it to the phone or iPod automatically. Well, Suri (you know, the swanky new iPhone assistant) couldn't understand what music I was asking for so she just played everything (what, a southern accent? me? really?). Aside from one Shania Twain moment, the music mix was pretty good (if I do say so myself). And I actually have the boys saying Jimmy Buffet is "Pops' music," fantastic.

We looked at the pretty fall colors adorning all the trees along the interstate beautifully hung against a bright blue sky.

We discussed all the interesting road building equipment between Birmingham and the Georgia state line. {an aside: What exactly are we doing here? Just digging up the median and putting up cones all the way to the state line? I mean shouldn't there be some progress after the YEARS of this project?}

We sailed through downtown Atlanta and marveled at the sky scrapers and tunnels.

I love checking my rear mirror and seeing this:

When it is time for that on the road snack and drink, don't even think of putting down that blankie. It most definitely should be stored on your head for safe keeping.

Grandma and Grandpa's house was like my second home growing up. It warms my heart that my boys can feel the comfort of their home.

The boys measuring with grandpa.

We pushed right through nap time and the littlest slept on my shoulder at Dairy Queen. I know how rare these moments are becoming, so I savored it (okay I savored the ice cream, too).

And here are some goodies Grandma has on display.

(My grandparents kids - Uncle David, My Mom, Uncle Ken, Uncle Alan)

And here is a little gem of me.

A pink turtle neck and a cotton headband, you're welcome. {and my grandma loves me anyway}

We made it home a smidgen past bedtime and started missing them immediately. {So, anybody have a great recommendation for a 55+ living community in the Birmingham area? We have got to get them closer!}

The Superhero Year {Halloween 2011}

2011-10-31T22:21:00.000-05:00

Halloween 2011 was wonderful. Family, fun, food, and just enjoying the holiday for all the silliness it is. This year (and maybe more to come) will be known as the superhero year.

Eli started it all with his Batman phase. {which is still going strong}

And Walker has all the sudden discovered the Transformers, so Optimus Prime it is.

And since I kind of get to pick out Colin's costume, I choose another adorable superhero. {which he instantly fell in love with and made is own by adding the Batman mask}

And some superheros still need their blankie. {mommy approves}

And we trick or treated with two adorable Dorothys. {benefits of being on this side of the country}

And trampoline jumping in costume. {now, that is talent}

The youngest was all about the candy collecting. {He would not skip a house}

Even if Bat-Superman needed a little assistance to keep up with the group. {thanks pops}

And pumpkins. {this was fun}

The Key to the World

2011-10-17T23:21:00.002-05:00

My first library card was blue paper with a metal plate in the corner with raised numbers on it. The librarian would take a carbon copy rubbing of it in an old style credit card machine each time I used it. I felt so grown up having a card with my name on it. I carried it around in my velcro wallet with pride.

Last week it was Walker's turn. One has to be five years old and able to write your first and last name. He practiced all morning (just to make sure) and then off we went to receive his first official library card.

His first selections:

I know you're shocked. Never could have predicted these selections. Nope, not a chance.

The whole experience was a bit nostalgic for me, but as with everything the times they have changed.

Most notably, checking the web address at the end of the book.

Look at my big boy. Hard to believe.

And just for a bit more mommy nostalgia, his first story. My, my how far we have come.

A Week Home

2011-10-13T13:18:00.001-05:00

Home for a week. It is wonderful and weird.

It is wonderful to be with our family and friends. Being with our people, being able to give real hugs, has fed my soul in ways only these relationships can.

It weirdly feels like we have bought the same house for the second time. At times it feels like we were never gone, and I don't like that feeling.

The Lord is teaching me so much of letting things go of this world. While I still find too much comfort in these familiar places my attachment to this place, this "home" has faded over our time away.

But, Colin has (finally) escaped the pack n play.

And, it's like Christmas morning with all the toys that were left un-played with for the summer.

(Halloween costume preview)

Thankfully, the dogs and boys have started off a much better relationship this time around.

I think having boys beds on floor level has helped. It is much easier to make friends with a dachshund if you provide a comfy nap spot.

And still lots and lots of this...

And more to come when (if?) the moving truck ever arrives.

Still settling in to the comfort in this very comfortable place.

Saying Good-Bye to San Francisco

2011-10-03T07:01:00.000-05:00

We have been just a short drive from the fair city of San Francisco for over four months. We have made the trip into the city several times. We have gone over the Bay Bridge a few times. But, we had yet to make it to the Golden Gate Bridge. We rectified that Saturday evening.

We finally made the trip over the Golden Gate Bridge. All of us.

Look, ALL NINE OF US in a picture.

And just for good measure on of the five us. Almost as rare.

Now, all five kids plus the Golden Gate, plus the city, plus Ben.

This, this is photo shoot gold.

Gold.
Now, it didn't feel like gold when we trying to get the pictures. It felt like we were tying to wrangle 5 kids right at dinner time while trying to catch the last few minutes of daylight, but the pictures - worth it all.

Can't think of a more appropriate adventure for our last weekend in California.

Ice Cream and Swimming

2011-10-01T16:16:00.000-05:00

We found ourselves in nice Southern California with weather too cool for both swimming and ice cream eating, but you know we did both.

Note: he is laying down in the water to avoid the chilly wind.

So, after everyone's lips turned blue and there was an appropriate amount of shivering we toweled up and headed in.

Cut to another day. On one side of the camera we have the boys enjoying their frozen treats. On the other side of the camera we have mommy and daddy with nice hot cups of coffee.

Although, it was really nice to stand in line without having to deal with the heat. So, this is not a complaint, just continuing the theme of things being colder than we expect in California.

Living Out the TV Special

2011-09-28T22:00:00.000-05:00

So, it is possible that we have watched the Disneyland special on Netflix a few too many times. It is even possible that we occasionally YouTube Disneyland attractions.

So...

Walker had to find the golden stake at the exact center of the park.

The long awaited submarine ride. Eli has wanted to ride this forever. It lived up to the expectations.

It's a small world, y'all.

With the line that waits outside and the train that runs over the top.

Walt Disney, Mickey, the Castle, pumpkins and Walker like an Egyptian.

Next time I think Samantha Brown should join us and we should make our own little special. "Disneyland as explored by busy little boys who always like transportation rides, who are sometimes afraid of characters, and sometimes like thrill rides, but sometimes just want an ice cream."

Omelets Made to Order

2011-09-28T07:57:00.000-05:00

The character breakfast, it's kind of our thing. It is expensive and time consuming, but it has always been worth it for us. It went well last September, and in 2009 it was a pleasure. I mean, honestly, Walker and Eli have been enjoying this for years.

So the one reservation Jason and I made for this trip was for the character breakfast. Easy, right?

You know how kids like to keep you guessing? No exception here. Walker had decided to be in a bad mood. Eli has decided he is terrified of characters and Colin refused to sit or eat anything.

See how sweet they look.

Well, the picture is not representative of the event.

Jason and I are sitting there trying to manage our three ring circus, while attempting to eat something of our pricey breakfast buffet, you know, since we were the only ones eating.

Anyway, we did get a couple of pictures. {very expensive pictures}

Jason {in a shining parenting moment} told Walker he couldn't ride the monorail if he didn't take a picture with Mickey. He hoped right in that line.

But wouldn't look at the camera. Aren't Mickey and I a cute couple?

I suppose it is good every now and again for these Disney pros to be humbled.

Disneyland

2011-09-27T09:54:00.000-05:00

How else would the McCays say good-bye to California? I mean the only appropriate way is with a visit to Disneyland, right? I mean we are here (well, plus the 7 1/2 hours in the car), and when will we have the chance again?

So, Disneyland is a whole lot smaller than Disney World. I know. You're shocked right?

You can walk everywhere, which is fantastic. Well, except for all the walking.

Day 1, Walker and Eli thought the stroller was an insult. They refused any suggestion at taking a ride. Day 4, everyone insisted they have a seat for a ride across the walkway. Tired much? Also, Jason never once offered me a ride.

Since everything is so close, the monorail isn't for transportation. It's a ride. Weird.

They boys couldn't quite wrap the heads around that concept.

More to come...

Coming Home

2011-09-21T18:10:00.000-05:00

*

Our time in California is coming to a close. In just a couple of weeks we will be returning to the land of please and thank you and of freely given smiles. The land where there is a Chick-fil-a on every corner and (more importantly) a grandparent just around each corner. We will tuck ourselves back into the same house. I will shop at the same grocery store and the kids will visit the same library.

But, we are not the same. Four brief months have changed us all wildly. This summer has been the most amazing, crazy and difficult thing I have ever experienced.

We moved cross country, with three weeks notice. {This would not have been possible without amazing parents helping out.}

And now we are getting ready to do it again. Move cross country, twice, in four months. {Oh, wow the boxes}

We moved into a (much) smaller house with only a fraction of our belongings. {Turns out we don't need the space or the stuff}

We moved in with another family (whom we love) and have shared all our space, meals and air. {Which even when you love folks can get hard.}

We (okay mostly Jason and Ben) have built a company and secured partners to help them see their vision through. The guys have worked harder than I ever thought possible, which means the wives have worked harder than ever as well. {Building a company isn't for sissies}

We lost our child and will forever have a part of hearts here because of that. {Still miles to go}

My grandma broke her hip while I was so far away. {So thankful for the opportunity to make the emergency trip and that she is doing great.}

The Lord has refined and taught me so much in this compact time. He has revealed his mercy and compassion. He has shown me how he desires all of me; every little corner. He has show me sin in my life and graciously removed so much ugliness from me. I have felt His pursuit in a new and fresh way. For this I will always be grateful.

We knew we were coming to California on mission. We just didn't know that we were the mission. We have been forever changed by this summer. We are coming back with things that we know are different, things we know we want to change, and things I'm sure will change over time.

Even though we are returning to so much of the same. I somehow know it will feel very different. The same will be different and I am excited for it.

*Picture taken out of our front door in Alabama. The sunsets out of our front door are unparalleled.

Surfer Boy

2011-09-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

Oh, how he loves the water. Loves. I know I have written about it before, but I seriously cannot get enough of watching him jump into the ocean.

Contemplating the sting of the icy water.

Cautiously inching in.

Up to the ankles.

Caught.

Committed.

Overwhelmed.

Convincing brother to join in.

All in.

Splash.

Soaked.

Worth it.

One day I will love visiting him at his beach house. And I'm sure all my blond tan grandchildren will know how to surf by the time they are 5.

Our People Came

2011-09-18T23:44:00.000-05:00

There is something to knowing that your family is here. My people are here. Jason's brother and sister-in-law made the trip to California for a conference with a visit on the side.

The kids were thrilled to see Uncle Matt and Aunt Ally. So were we. We were so thrilled that we arranged for our first ever babysitter and made the daunting trip into the city on a Friday night.

See, it happened.
(sorry for the horrible picture with the creepy eyes. i can't fix it, but here's some photographic evidence.)

It was lovely. We ate at Le Charm and everything was wonderful. Between us all there were 10 kids with alternate childcare. That is a pretty big victory. A fancy grown up dinner in the city even with all our little blessings. What a treat.

The boys and I took Aunt Ally to see the Pacific Ocean. We had the best weather we have had for any of our beach trips in California. No fog, clear skies, and it was even almost warm.

We had our McDonald's picnic and had the place pretty much to ourselves for a long time.

(this is one of my most favorite pictures, ever)

There was sandcastle building and smashing.

And even though the water was still stingingly cold the older two eventually dove on in/fell on in, whatever.

Walker said his favorite part of the beach was seeing Aunt Ally, since it had been so very long since he had seen her.

It was so good to have our people on the same side of the country as us, even if only for a few days.

Big E

2011-09-09T11:21:00.000-05:00

He is my tenderhearted peacemaker.

He is four, but often acts so. much. older. Sometimes I forget he is only four, but he is only four and is great at it.

Yesterday he told me I was his favorite girl in the whole world. I know one day all too soon that sentiment will change, but for now it is all mine.

He woke up and stumbled out of his bed with his prized cars that were honored to spend the night tucked right under the covers with him. Only to find his baby brother is crying. So, he joyfully hands him each car until the youngest is happy.

He can swing all by himself, but still really likes a starting push from mommy.

California has made him blonder and tanner. He looks the perfect surfer boy part. {even with much sunscreen and hat wearing. it is obviously meant to be.}

Batman still reigns supreme, but he has become interested in all things super hero. Superman, spiderman, the green lantern, they all are part of the daily conversation.

He is super photogenic and needs a haircut.

August

2011-09-05T06:30:00.000-05:00

There is so much to say and remember from the last month. I'm feeling my words return as autumn and change are coming upon us. Here are some highlights to catch us up with more to come hopefully.

There was park play and more going down "the big slide."

Really, a big slide.

As many times as their little legs could carry them up the steps.

There were new bikes and new bike riding adventures.

Someone got a broken arm out of these adventures.

It was (of course) Eli who gathered another boy battle wound. It has not slowed him down a bit, and he even got a fancy green arm for a while.

There were more adventures in Santa Cruz, and we even sprung for some tickets this time. You know, to ride the rides a bit.

And icees, we sprung for icees. Honestly, you have no idea how cute Colin is when he asks for an icee, but Colin knows how cute he is so mommy and daddy obliged.

Grandma broke her hip, I simply had to be with her. So, with the support of my amazing husband our housemates, the Wyrosdicks, off I flew to see with my own eyes that she was going to be just fine.

(and she is)

There was that time we took all the kids to the Chili's bar so we could watch the kick-off to college football.

(it actually went pretty well and everything here is smoke-free)

There were more thrill rides at the amusement park.

Seriously, how did he get old enough for this?

This summer is flying away, but I am doing my best to tuck it all deep inside. I feel pretty strongly that this time and these experiences are going to be with us all for a long time.

Quiet

2011-08-22T16:57:00.000-05:00

I know it has been quiet around here lately. It doesn't mean I don't have things to share, I just can't seem to get things settled enough to write them out.

There is much going on in this little house in California. The guys have demo days over the next three days. They will be presenting to investors and making some big decisions about the future of their company and our families. {prayers appreciated}

For those in want of some McCay boy pictures, there are some new ones on flickr photostream. You will just have to wait for the blog with the story. You know, someday, when I can put it all together.

Some Mondays are Mondays

2011-08-09T01:06:00.002-05:00

Colin's tummy is upset. No eating, lots of fussing, lots of laundry, and lots of the things that cause laundry.

Finally a Strawberry Shortcake movie and some Pedialyte settled him.

Well, really all the boys enjoyed the Strawberry Shortcake movie. And that's okay. I'm not sure what the movie was actually about. I mean everyone was named after fruit and there were very odd looking talking strawberries, but it never really arrived at a point. But, the boys were quite for a good 40 minutes. {ahhh}

It had been a nice run of us all being healthy. Here's hoping tomorrow we will all wake up and start a new streak of being illness free.

Since we are trying to make sure we try all the ways to arrange the kids in this house {HA!} we swapped the kids rooms, after dinner, dangerously close to bedtime. This whole thing is just trial and error. Let's hope this is more trial turned success than error. {'Cause moving bunk beds is no piece of cake.}

What with all the tools, out of place furniture and tired kids we took an evening walk while the room swap was completed.

The boys loved the walk. We went a different direction and there were new sights all around. We stumbled upon a whole strip of houses that have American flags in the front of their homes just a few blocks down. It was quite charming.

I'm sure there will be more Mondays in our future that behave like Mondays, but that is okay. I know the memories that will remain are the snapshots of joy tucked in the creases.

Short Legs, Floppy Ears, Wagging Tails, and Giant Hearts

2011-08-04T10:26:00.001-05:00

I miss our dogs. I really didn't think I would miss them this much. I thought I would enjoy the dog-free house a bit more.

Now, I haven't cleaned up a doggie accident in a two months, so my mind might be making things a bit nostalgic, but I do miss them.

They are living with Jason's parents (also known as doggie paradise), but I wish they were here.

I miss the joyful welcome each time we return home.

I miss the warm snuggles while movie watching.

I miss them vacuuming up all the kids' crumbs.

I miss always having happy company who just wants to be with you.

The boys miss them, too. They've always been there, and now they are not.

Turns out the church we are a part of here has "The Highway Wiener Nationals." Every year they host about 60 dachshunds for races.

We thought this would be a good opportunity to see some sweet dachshunds, pet some floppy ears and feel a bit better. Of course, it only made us miss them more, but I'm still glad we went.

It was hilarious and fun.

The one where the dachshund runs so fast, she runs right out of her jersey.

I like the dog in the yellow who takes an immediate hard right to the awards stand.

And the grande finale.

This is a sight everyone should see once in their life.

Chasing the Light

2011-08-02T05:54:00.000-05:00

For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6

I am chasing the light. That is the only way we can show the light.

We will swing and run and play and these will be my glimpses of heaven.

I will be grateful and pray.

My heart is so heavy for those suffering in the drought and famine in Africa right now. I will flee from the darkness and joyfully look for the day our Blessed Hope comes and frees us from all this pain. While we are the light-bearers here, can you help? Click Here.

Gilroy

2011-08-01T06:40:00.003-05:00

South of San Jose, east of Santa Cruz not far of the 101 is Gilroy. The garlic capital of the world and the location of the best young kids family park around. Gilroy Gardens is perfectly themed for families with kids in the under 10 set.

The boys could ride just about all the attractions. Colin could ride most things with a parent. The lines were short and quick. Everything is beautifully landscaped, clean, and well shaded.

First (and possibly most importantly) there is a train.

There are adorable little fire trucks that little boys can drive all by themselves (and we already have experience with this excitement).

There are rides that go round and round.

And boats that float through the flowers.

*Note the sound of velcro being separated halfway through. That would be the 2 year old removing his "safety" belt.

A waterfall to run underneath.

Daddy got the wettest, because he kept running through with little boys with varying degrees of joy/terror. (Colin=love, Eli=not love).

There was people watching with Walker

Because he chose not to ride the hot air balloons

Which went a little higher and faster than mommy expected, but Colin squealed with the delight the whole time and Eli immediately informed me he had, "so much fun on that ride."

There were fried artichoke hearts and lemonade icees.

We drove the cars, just one more time, and then walked merrily out of the gate.

Already looking forward to the next trip.

As Much As A Moose

2011-07-31T23:51:00.000-05:00

Tucking the boys in tonight, there was a barrage of hugs and kisses and I love yous.

It becomes a competition. Most hugs, most kisses, and the sweetest I love yous pour out. I soak it in.

Not to be out done, in a quite moment Walker shares his heart.

"Mommy I love you so much. I love you a hundred. You know what that means. It means I love you more than anyone can love a moose."

So there's that.

Momma Bear

2011-07-29T05:35:00.000-05:00

When the boys at the park are mean, careless, and cruel with their words, I will talk to my boys about choosing who they play with and about being kind even when others are not.

My heart will still break at your nasty words and my son's dejected heart.

He will find some new friends and move on long before the mother's wound heals.

But be on warning kids who do not treat my kids kindly. I will then watch you like a hawk. And the moment you put your hands on my son, I will parent you if your parent will not.

I will shock you with my teacher voice and firmly tell you to remove your hands. When you shove another child (not mine) out of line at the water fountain, I will correct you.

What do you think about being the park police? I was surprised at my strong reaction to these aggressive kids.

Usually park behavior is the opposite. Mothers are mortified by any bad behavior from their child, no matter how minor.

I do not expect perfect behavior from all the kids at the park. I know my kids have made there share of mistakes, but you will not get to abuse other kids while I'm sitting on that park bench.

Grey Days

2011-07-27T05:27:00.000-05:00

The Lord is walking me through letting go of so much of this world. Leading me to praise on the grey days. To let go of the complaining, grumpiness, and my circumstances having control of me.

When we have driven an hour to the beach and find a dreary grey cold beach.

When the kids are whiney and less than cooperative.

When people say things, meant in love, that come out cold.

When bills come that are tangible reminders of that horrible night.

When I stay up too late and sleep still escapes.

I will count it all joy that the Lord is teaching me so much about finding my rest, restoration and peace in him. That he will use the blessings of the beach, the children, the husband, to comfort me; but when they fail I will always have him to run to. I will not find my comfort in the blessings, but in The Giver, who promises oh so much more.

When the fog rolls in, I will know it is from the Lord. He is no less deserving of my worship than on the sunny clear days. I will not project my value in this world on the Lord. I will thank him for all he has let pass through his hands for me. For he is drawing me in, and oh how I love him.

**Today is much more a sunny yellow day, but it took me a few days to muster the courage to click publish. It is easy for me to share the sunshine, but hard to share the sadness.

Slide, Wee!

2011-07-26T01:24:00.000-05:00

Every park here is better than the last.

And it is amazing to be able to use them all day. No weather restrictions.

Even on Sunday nights after dinner, when there is just a bit more daylight to chase.

What? It's over?

This one, Cuesta Park, we will be back to soon. It met all the criteria: big enough to run and play, small enough to keep an eye on everyone, lots of age appropriate equipment, clean restrooms, open space, and close.

Thank you, California, your parks are amazing.

Happy Sunday Night

2011-07-24T22:09:00.000-05:00

He is a big four and half year old explorer with much to do in every minute.

But tonight, he picked me a flower and asked to hold my hand.

{Capturing these moments, may the never fade}

Crossing Bridges

2011-07-20T22:57:00.000-05:00

Today I was woken up far too early. {Praise Jesus for precious early morning snuggles and milk in the fridge}

Today I washed 3 pair of messy pants, 2 bathroom rugs and 2 sets of wet sheets. {Praise Jesus for running water and a washer and dryer}

Today I picked up 2 jets, 4 big trucks and 400 tiny blocks. {Praise Jesus that my children have the leisure to play}

Today I covered everyone in 50 SPF. (Please tell me one day they make peace with that) {Praise Jesus for simple solutions to preventable problems}

Today I walked outside in the hot (seriously it was hot) sun for 3 hours to wait in lines, keep little ones from climbing up the slide and falling down the steps, and clip and unclip "safety" straps on fun rides. {Praise Jesus for the blessing of 'fun time' with my kids}

Today my lunch was the uneaten half of Colin's sandwich and a sip of his water. {Praise Jesus that I can make so much lunch for my kids every day that there is always some left over}

Today was everything we all needed and more. {Praise Jesus for so many blessings undeserved}

Happiness in a Cup

2011-07-18T06:36:00.001-05:00

We contemplated the fancy yogurt shop in town.

The getting out of the car, the getting in the shop, the $20 for everyone's treat, the mess all over everyone's shirt, the getting back in the car.

So, we decided to head toward the golden arches and get everyone nice self-contained milkshakes.

Let me tell you, the McD's have upgraded their milkshakes from back in the day. Whip cream, a cherry on top, and a generous portion, all this worked out well for the kiddos.

And mommy and daddy got 20 minutes of peaceful conversation in the car.

{Eli and Colin finished their milkshakes just fine. Walker declared that he had enough sugar and stopped halfway through. Comments like that certainly don't come from my side of the family, in fact we are still searching for the origin.}

Favorite!

2011-07-14T11:00:00.002-05:00

Saturdays in this summer-of-busy have meant adventure days. Days to go and see and experience and to recharge ourselves as a little family.

And it has worked.

Brothers, having the time of their lives together.

The bumper cars are one of the favorites. This picture is one of my favorites. I know the focus is all wrong and you can't see their faces, but still. My two little race car drivers loving every moment of doing big kid things. I just wish they were in opposite cars, so they could be 1 and 2. But I suppose it is okay for Eli to be number 1 every now and again.

Linking up as part of Beth's You Capture: Summertime

Some Things are Hereditary

2011-07-13T05:01:00.000-05:00

I've always had an irrational fear of people puppets. People dressed up in giant costumes do not comfort me.

Yes, I know it is irrational, but it has been going on for years. We are talking 4 years old to umm, recently, people.

Since having kids and taking trips to Disney World, I have come a long way.

See (2008).

I have worked hard to make sure I don't pass this disorder to my children.

But, apparently some things are just instinctual.

Eli's reaction

No matter the pleading, he was having none of it (and it is hilarious that he is using is baby brother for protection).

Can't say I blame him. They are creepy.

Sometimes You Should Just Set the $5 on Fire

2011-07-11T14:30:00.000-05:00

So we decided to buy the boys one treat, just one treat.

$5 for some ice and $.05 worth of flavored syrup.

There was enough time for a brain freeze.

But that was about it.

And, just one treat it is. As in, everybody got one bite, but they really enjoyed that one bite.

A Cool Day at the Theme Park

2011-07-11T05:09:00.002-05:00

I don't think I have ever been to a theme park not in the sweltering southern heat and humidity. I've also never had a major theme park 10 minutes from the house. Well, that was before Saturday. I highly recommend both.

We headed out to California's Great America. It is a theme park with a water park inside. It was too cold (in July, Ha!) to do the water park, so we stuck to the (mostly) dry areas.

How our day began, with a ride on a double decker carousel.

I don't know why Colin was so upset on the carousel. He loved it just a few weeks ago, but this time he would not let go of me.

They have a whole kid-themed area with rides for the kids.

The only trauma was when we encountered a ride that Walker and Eli could ride, but Colin could not. He doesn't exactly understand that he is smaller than them. But there was always something around the corner to take his mind off of the, I'm-still-a-toddler-not-a-big-boy woes.

There was riding.

And driving.

And watching.

And bravery (by one, in particular) on the "big" ride.

And almost napping (but never giving in).

And promises to come back another day, because that is the beauty of the park being only 10 minutes away.

Eli Leads

2011-07-06T14:22:00.001-05:00

All the boys loved the day at the beach, but Eli led the crew in all things ocean, sand and surf. It is funny that my little one that looks like a surfer boy really is a surfer boy at heart.

He was the first to approach the waves.

The first watching and contemplating the ocean

Searching for inspiration {as mommy searches for a frame}

Inching closer

Waiting

Getting caught {in the coldest water ever}

And loving it.

And getting soaked {because the cold really doesn't matter (to him)}

Taking on the ocean

Sand building

Staying in the ocean so long his lips turn blue and he is shivering. {and warming up with towels and cuddles from mommy}

Digging with daddy

And loving the beach just a little bit more than everyone else.

Waves

2011-07-05T06:19:00.001-05:00

The ocean is healing. The vastness, the beauty, the roar of the water drowning out everything else, the constant change and moving; it helps me put everything in perspective.

For our last date night Jason and I went to Half Moon Bay (about 45 minutes away) for dinner at sunset. The food was average, but the company and watching the sun slip behind the waves was perfect.

The next morning we knew we want to take the kids. Not for the romantic dinner, but for the beautiful sandy beaches.

They thought this was a good idea.

The beach for 4th of July weekend, why not?

Half Moon Bay was great, lots of family digging in the sand and dipping their toes in the ocean. The water is still cold, but the beach was beautiful and it was the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

There was much excitement {and support of Japan}

I love getting all three in the same shot {even if there is some other strange guy in there as well}

Everyone got new sand buckets {since the ones mommy had so carefully packed were still sitting in the living room}

Auburn support, and protection from the intense sun. It is so much easier to get burned here. Although, Colin doesn't care. He unwilling to get along with his hat. Therefore, he gets sunscreen in the hair from now on. {no burns, yet. well, at least not on the kids}

And four able bodied ditch diggers ready to go. {there are no words for how tired they were at then end of this day}

It is hard work moving sand all around the beach, but I suppose it has to be done.

And inside the hole is the warmest place on the beach. {they can did mommy's wind protection first next time}

You know; getting water to build sand castles and making deals on the phone. Quite the multi-tasker.

The beach is just fun. The boys can play and play, a world of endless possibilities. There is always more sand to dig, more waves to crash, more footprints to leave. No high priced entertainment, no need for movies or computers, just simple fun. The smell of sunscreen and the feeling of peace overwhelms us all.

Happy Fourth!

2011-07-04T18:55:00.000-05:00

Hope your day has been filled with much celebrating and joy. Wish we could share a BBQ sandwich with you all!

Adventure is Out There!

2011-06-29T07:06:00.002-05:00

I read this post last week about Fenton's Creamery in Oakland. I sent it to Jason and mentioned adding it to our must do list. I mean ice cream, diner food and Disney; what more could the McCays need?

Jason realized that we could all use those things sooner rather than later so we headed out Saturday evening.

We drove through San Francisco (not totally worth the traffic) so the boys (and me!) got to go over the Bay Bridge for the first time. That was exciting with a tunnel, big boats and the biggest cranes ever in the port on the other side.

The place was hopping being a Saturday night and all, but we were buzzed for a table before we found a parking space so it worked out well.

The food was good. They have chicken fingers (a rarity in this area)! So we loaded up on our greasy diner foods, but saved room for the highlight of the meal - the ice cream.

Lest you worry that you won't get enough hot fudge.

Colin approves.

And Eli ordered a milkshake, so Colin could carry the title of messiest child all by himself.

MongoHQ, the hottest thing in the Silicon Valley, eats at Fenton's. You should, too.

Cars 2

2011-06-28T18:21:00.001-05:00

So, we went to the movies. Cars 2, Colin's first visit to the real live movie theater.

Quick review:

1. The movie was good, but a bit too complex of a story line for the under five set. The boys did great watching it, but could not really tell us what the movie was about at the end.

2. We are now the size family that needs a refill on the large popcorn! I didn't know people actually got refills. I thought that was just a marketing thing. Not so, but popcorn for lunch is just fine every now and again!

God Breathed Life

2011-06-28T14:00:00.000-05:00

*

It is hard to find the new place between the grief and the life we are called to live.

The Lord is teaching me about numbering my days. Oh, how I long for heaven and the end to the sin and suffering of this world more than ever before.

Psalm 90:12 "So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."

Ann Voskamp says it much better than I can. Go visit her blessed words, and it will bless you.

Our time here is brief and our time with our children is but a small fraction of that vapor. So while grieving our Riley, we are taking the time to intentionally love Walker, Eli and Colin and make our time with them count.

I will be thankful for the grief we are walking through and I will be thankful for joy we are being given and believe that they can exist together.

*The days are filled with moments of joy to be pushing my sweet boy in a swing and being keenly aware of the empty swing next to him.

June 20, 2011

2011-06-25T15:00:00.005-05:00

Last Monday night, our precious fourth child was born straight to heaven.

This is easily the hardest, most humbling, most God-revealing experience I have ever had.

Our baby was exactly 12 weeks. We do not know if we had a boy or a girl, so we have named him or her Riley.

The Lord has comforted us in miraculous ways. He has used the body of Christ, both near and far, to care for us in amazing ways.

We are praising God for the blessings he has poured out on us even in our extreme grief.

Lamentations 3:22-24
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
   his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,
    "therefore I will hope in him."

Thank you to so many of you have been praying and will continue. This means so much.

Backyard Swimming

2011-06-20T06:15:00.001-05:00

Last week it got warm enough in the mild Bay Area climate to blow up the backyard pool and let the kids splash around.

Now, if it is warm enough to swim, then it is too warm to be in the not air-conditioned house. I'm not complaining, just saying the hours between 2 and 6 can get pretty uncomfortable inside.

Of course, it wasn't warm enough to actually warm the pool water enough (even though it had sat in the sun all day), but the kids didn't seem to mind. They just kept swimming, blue lips, chill bumps and all.

The three older boys dove right in and laughed, squealed and splashed around immediately.

Colin was a little more timid. So, I thought I would give him a little help and put him in the pool.

Wrong idea.

After a little time, he put himself in the pool and had a great time. It just needed to be his idea.

In fact he was the last one out. All the other kids had given into the need to be wrapped up in a warm towel and this kid just kept going. Eventually we lured him out with dinner.

Ava Grace maintained her distance. Wise girl.

And look, ruffles!

Of course, the next day it was too cold and windy to swim again, but that didn't stop the kids from asking 500 times to get in the pool.

We are supposed to hit 88 degrees this week, so I think we will get another shot.

Because it sure is fun.

{Pool provided by Uncle Matt and Aunt Ally, good call folks}

I'm Surrounded

2011-06-14T16:30:00.000-05:00

Mommy's bed was the place to be for rest time today.

To my right.

To my left.

(he doesn't sleep, but the stillness is important)

Oh, these fleeting moments. One day they will not find there peace and calm beside me. Today I was given a gift.

The Boardwalk

2011-06-13T22:23:00.000-05:00

We will visit again.

There was a train.

Amazing rides to watch.

And if you don't actually ride anything, it's all free!

Santa Cruz Beach

2011-06-13T07:01:00.003-05:00

This is the one where Eli walks down the boardwalk in his underwear....

Saturday we made the short trip down to Santa Cruz to actually touch the Pacific Ocean.

The boys were squealing with joy. It was so exciting.

Note the pants. You are probably thinking, pants? on the beach? what was this mom thinking?

Let me tell you, it was cold. We were comfortable up on the boardwalk, but down by the water it was cold. We could have used our jackets. There were crazy people in swimsuits, but they were, well, crazy.

The boys were not bothered by the cold. They walked right into the waves with little regard for the wind or temperature. They got quite a bit wetter than I expected. I had extra pants in the car, so it was fine. Everyone got to have their fun.

We enjoyed the waves for a while and then headed back to the boardwalk to clean up. They have places to wash off your feet and get a little cleaned up. So we get up there and have 6 little feet and legs to wash off.

Jason had started with Eli and moved on to Walker, I was cleaning off Colin. You know that moment where you turn you back for a second. Well, Eli was behind me on a bench with two strangers and...

Jason turns around and says, "Why doesn't Eli have any pants on?"

And there he sits, on a bench in his underwear. His pants were wet, so it only seemed logical to him to take them off. The hundreds of people around didn't bother him one bit. Luckily the man sitting next to him was a dad and just laughed and made a few jokes.

So we get him re-pants we walked off to grab on boardwalk treats for the ride home.

Eli chose cotton candy and Walker chose a snow cone. Jason took them to buy their treats and I took Colin to the bathroom to wash his (very dirty) hands and face.

When I walked out of the restroom to see Eli walking toward us, Jason beside him, holding a bag of cotton candy as tall has him, with his pants around his ankles.

It seems his skinny little waist couldn't hold up the weight of the wet pants, and his hands were far to busy eating cotton candy to worry about holding up his pants. And Jason just didn't notice.

That was easily one of the funniest moments of my life. I so wish I would have taken a picture before I notified Jason to pull up his pants. I mean, he was already walking down the board walk, pants down, so the embarrassment had happened. What would have been a few more seconds?

Anyway, the beach was fun and cotton candy is good.

Oh, and in case you are concerned that Colin didn't get a treat, the cotton candy was a three foot bag so was plenty to share.

He approves.

The Birth-Day

2011-06-12T00:06:00.000-05:00

There were presents

For new outside play

There was playing in Daddy's office

There were eggless cupcakes (the cream cheese frosting was easily the best part, and all Colin ate)

There were birthday cards

All read upside down, of course

And much joy at our 2 year old.

Not a Baby Anymore

2011-06-10T10:21:00.000-05:00

"Baby" Colin has turned 2. Quietly as night turned to day he woke up with the big boy age of 2. It sounds so old for my little teddy bear.

Today their will be new toys (for a new sandbox), pizza (his favorite), and eggless chocolate cupcakes (I'm hoping the frosting will cover the general lack of flavor).

There will be much celebrating and remembering today as we watch this little boy grow before our very eyes.

Before we left Alabama we had an early celebration with the family.

So, really it is like he gets 2 parties. 2 Celebrations for 2 years old. Seems fair.

On turning 1.

On 2 years ago.

Parks - Bay Area Style

2011-06-09T21:54:00.000-05:00

We have been doing some park hoping around here. The weather is gorgeous, and what else have we to do?

Some things are the same as the parks before the move -

There is sliding.

And some safety sliding.

And there is swinging.

And there are things that different -

There is sand at every park. EVERY PARK. Rain is rare so at least the sand is dry, but it is still sand.

I am getting better about dumping out their shoes before we leave, but I've vacuumed up plenty of piles of sand so far. And bath night is needed every night; sand, sand, everywhere.

There are palm trees or as Eli calls them, "beach trees." The boys keep on asking why they are everywhere when we can't actually see the beach from where we are.

A lot of the parks have these huge steep concrete slides. You are supposed to bring a piece of cardboard and slide down really fast.

Thus far, I have been able to keep Colin from going down one. I feel those days are numbered.

The boys have loved being able to walk to a local neighborhood park. I never thought I would cross six lanes of traffic with 3 kids with confidence, but we have made the trip everyday this week.

Also, not a lot of moms at the park. Plenty of nannies and grandparents, but moms are rare and only out after dinner.

We are learning the ropes and finding every corner of this area to play in.

Still Exploring

2011-06-06T17:39:00.000-05:00

Last Friday we headed down to San Jose to the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo.

Now, let me stop right there. It only took 25 minutes to get there, but people around here think that is crazy. Anywhere out of your 5 mile radius is a crazy far drive. This is hilarious since it took me 45 minutes to get to the Birmingham Zoo at home, and really it took me 30 minutes to get just about anywhere. People here don't live the same type of suburban driving life that folks south of Birmingham live.

Now, back to the adventure.

The place was really more park with a side of zoo, but it was perfect for the boys.

Look at that treehouse!

I shall never admit how many times I lost sight of Walker. He had a blast running, and climing, and sliding and was not terribly concerned about staying in my line of sight. But, in the end he made it out for lunch, so all's well that ends well.

Walker wanted to ride the roller coaster all by himself. I told him to pull the safety bar all the way to his tummy, but failed to mention he had to wait until the lady unlocked it. He was a bit panicked for 10 seconds that his safety bar wouldn't come down. My little rule follower.

His only comment when he got off, "It was fast." And, he declined a second ride.

Driving police cars and fire trucks.

The fire trucks had working bells. {Ring, Ring, Ring}

Colin's second favorite thing was the macaws.

"Bird, Bird, Bird!"

His most favorite thing was the carousel.

It was our last stop on the way out and everyone enjoyed it.

Well, not everyone. I mean I don't really do well with the going round and round in circles thing, but I do love my kids. So, round and round I went.

Colin giggled the whole time. Eli is yelling out in the background every time his goes up. Fun.

Parting shot on the way out. No one was interested, but I made them stand there nonetheless.

They had a blast and have already asked when we are going back.

{Which is just fine. The place is a partner with the McWane center in Birmingham so we can go as much as we like for just the price of parking!}

Things to Not Complain About: The Weather

2011-06-03T08:14:00.000-05:00

The weather in the Bay Area is about as different as it could be from Alabama weather.

Alabama is under a ridiculous early summer heat wave that is not encouraging for how the rest of the summer will go.

Since we have been in California the temperatures have hovered in the mid-sixties during the day, maxing out at 75. The evenings are cool, dipping into the 40s, and the heat has been required each morning.

There is no humidity. This makes my hair so happy.

The boys wear long sleeves and pants, and require jackets in the early morning and late afternoon.

They can play outside all day.

With the extreme temperatures in Alabama the only way to cope is to get the kids outside early, and in by 10am. Then let them go back outside after dinner, or be in a swimming pool. That makes for a lot of indoor activities for some very busy boys.

Here, it is cloudy a lot. The clouds are there each morning. They might break around lunch and then they roll back in for the evening.

But clouds are fine since we can walk outside without risk of passing out from a heat stroke, and I can get in my car without the suffocating heat awaiting inside it, and there is no $250 power bill from a constantly running AC, and (well you get the idea).

Still missing the people in Alabama {oh, so much}, but not the weather {not one tiny bit}.

{So all you people in Alabama need to come and escape the heat for a visit!}

1, 2, 3, 4

2011-05-30T21:54:00.000-05:00

Is that just a hand-me-down shirt Colin is wearing?

Yes, yes it is, but he is wearing it with purpose.

The McCay 5 will become the McCay 6 this winter.

The little one is 9 weeks today, and all is going well. The official date is January 2, 2012.

We are thrilled and can't wait to see who this little one will be and all he or she will add to our family.

Our First Day Trip

2011-05-29T00:13:00.000-05:00

For our first California day trip we loaded ourselves up and headed down to Monterey.

The scenery was something right out of a movie, and the weather was perfect.

We had a nice stroll by the water on a sandy path and some of us saw the Pacific Ocean up close for the first time.

We saw sea lions sunning themselves on the beach and then we made our way to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

It is amazing, and huge, and amazing. There is so much to see, inside and outside areas, and people to help on every corner. The exhibits are beautifully done and have millions of little areas for the kids.

Penguins!

Water play

The amazing view

Sea otters

Waiting for the tide to splash in

Then we took the scenic walk back to the car, packed up some new memories, and headed home.

The boys (and I) absolutely loved having the day with Daddy and exploring the beautiful town of Monterey.

We Are Here

2011-05-25T16:41:00.000-05:00

We are here for obedience and adventure.

Where is here, you ask?

We are transplanted to Mountain View, California for the summer and possibly beyond.

Jason and his business partner have been accepted to a program called Y Combinator for their product Mongo HQ.

On May 18th, Jason and all our necessary belongings headed west with a U Haul and our minivan.

On May 22nd, the kids and myself boarded an airplane and headed west.

The whole company; 4 adults and 5 kids are living together to make a serious attempt at making all this thing work, and to see just what adventure God has in store for us.

The Lord's provision has been amazing. The house, travel, amazing help from family and friends all have been remarkable.

Now we learn how to make a new life here. To live together, to meet knew people, to go new places, to build a company, but more than anything to live in the Lord's will at all costs.

Super Heros for the Day

2011-05-09T10:09:00.001-05:00

I wish Batman and the fireman were more effective box packers and closet cleaners. {Life is crazy, but good.}

Outside

2011-05-04T09:40:00.001-05:00

There is much going on inside our home and inside ourselves. Big changes afoot. Good changes, with much encouragement, but still hard.

Dirt isn't hard or challenging. It is simple and easy.

A quick escape to the backyard is more than welcome. To run and play and dig and chase and laugh and jump and just be in the peace that is outside.

Being in this family is a full contact sport.

Until tomorrow. And another blissful break from all the inside, to the outside.

{Part of Beth's You Capture: Outside} {I am most proud of the first picture}

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Easter is not about the eggs, or chocolate, or bunnies, or any such things, but they are fun traditions.

Starting off with matching plaid shorts and an impossible to get group shot.

Well anyway, one day we will still know that we had them in adorable Easter outfits, even if the picture doesn't quite capture it.

Walker only picked blue eggs, and Eli only picked green. We may have a slight compulsive disorder going on around here.

Colin was indiscriminate. He was pretty sure they all had candy, and that was the goal.

And he knew exactly what the candy was all about and how to get to it.

He will never tell how much he ate. But I counted the wrappers, and well, oy. {I really didn't think he could unwrap the candy himself!}

And I'm so glad that I can virtually wipe my kids faces, even if I didn't before the picture was taken.

Self-initiated hand holding. "Awww"

It was a happy Easter weekend. The joy is from Christ and through Christ and I will praise Him for these little moments of glory He shared with us.

To the Science Center We Shall Go

2011-04-22T14:24:00.000-05:00

The crowds were crazy. I've never seen so many people there. The boys got the, "there are lots of people here today. STAY CLOSE," speech and they agreed.

They spent the first 45 minutes playing with trains on the train tables. You know, much like the one we have at home. But, they were happy.

Walker was just about the oldest in the kindergarten and younger area. He was such a good leader.

You see those trains in the middle of the table? He had set those up separate for when the toddlers came to play (and they did, and then he would set them up again). He even calmly brokered a couple of train disputes between children he did not know. {Maybe the 4 years of, "share kindly" are finally getting us somewhere}

Eli was filled with inventiveness. He used all the machines in his own unique ways and crafted new uses for the tools and toys.

Colin "helped," and Eli was gracious anyway.

Colin wanted to play the toddler golf, only the golf balls (as they usually are) were all missing. So, being the resourceful and strong young lad he is, use the giant golf ball holder (which does look like a ball) as his ball.

It didn't go very far, but he was satisfied.

We spent more time than ever at the life-sized light bright wall. Eli lined up all the green ones.

Then he counted them (bonus math lesson!).

And, they are only sort of "stay dry aprons," but hey, it's just water.

Every day is an adventure, and this was a good one.

Just Shy of 300 {Our Bowling Adventure}

2011-04-18T08:45:00.000-05:00

Bowling Night with the cousins.

A first for the boys and the first in a long time for me. {I almost beat Jason, almost}

Walker lasted about 5 frames before he lost interest.

But, initially, there was lots of interest. {and yay, Aunt Ally}

But it was convenient that Walker lost interest, because Colin had waited patiently and was VERY interested. {Eli and Daddy on the assist}

And he had figured it out.

And Eli was quite the encourager. Eli was also the best bowler of the bunch, even if his bowling looked a bit more like the shot-put. {and he was far to fast to capture on film}

The pile of family shoes. Our family pile of shoes. {That is all}

And rented shoes, which is a difficult idea to explain to the kiddos. They were ready to bring them home. {How fashion forward of them}

Walker's favorite part - icees and conversation. He made 3 new friends (all grown ups) hanging around the snack bar. I love my little politician. Never met a stranger and educating the world on all manor of things.

A fabulously fun time with family and if you add all our scores up, you would end up just shy of a perfect 300.

This Moment of Focusing On...

2011-04-14T21:55:00.001-05:00

On being present. On being thankful for this moment so much so that I do not squander it.

"I will not desecrate this moment with ignorant hurry or sordid ingratitude" (Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, p.70)

On listening and sharing and guiding and answering.

On climbing and chasing and encouraging and catching and carrying.

On being home, and really being here.

On fighting the urge to worry and fret over the plans for the future. God is sovereign and his plans will be accomplished. On being prayerful and obedient and not worrying about the rest.

"The slower the living, the greater the sense of fullness and satisfaction." (Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, p.76)

Her words leave you seeing God's beauty in the daily living He has given us.

I will be slow in these moments in the backyard. I will savor them.

James 4: 13-15 13 "Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit" - 14 yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. 15 Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that."

Rest.

2011-04-12T22:15:00.002-05:00

Everyday I look forward to my 20 minutes of peace.

Eli naps in our bed and I snuggle with him until he drifts off. It is 20 minutes of sweet whispers with my newly 4 year old. And, equally important, 20 minutes of stillness for me. No cleaning, cooking, reading, wiping, washing. Just quietness.

Most days the my quiet time draws to a close when I hear Walker stirring. He has to stay in his room for an hour (trust me, he needs the quietness as well), but he shakes and rattles and turns pages while in his quiet time. This usually sounds as my alarm and I get up and use my 40 minutes to get some things done kid-free.

This week as been crazy busy, with little sleep and lots of late nights working things out. Walker gave us both a little break this afternoon. Without his stirring my 20 minutes turned into a nice little nap.

I woke up in one of those what time is it? What day day is it? Kind of stupors, but it was so worth it. I know my days of having times like this are few, so I enjoyed every minute. The kids are getting older and we usually cover some of our school during the littlest one's nap time, but for today we all took a break of restoration.

So thankful the Lord gave us this little rest, we all so clearly needed.

To the Races

2011-04-10T22:59:00.000-05:00

On Saturday (courtesy of a well connected friend) we were off to the races at Barber Motorsports. This was a first for Jason and I, as well as the boys.

There was, well, racing. {this little cute one was my favorite}

It is the perfect set up for kids. We sat in a great spot to watch the cars zoom by. We were in the shade and had lots of run around room for the boys. There was a even a mud puddle to throw sticks into, win.

There were friends.

Even a dash of pink.

And hydration, what with all the running around.

{I do not believe I was given enough credit for dressing all the boys in racing themed Lightening McQueen gear. Thank you.}

The boys had a blast. We would love to take them back. You can pack a lunch and spend a day outside with the kids, while watching a major event go on before your eyes.

And about .06 seconds out of the parking lot. I'd say they had fun.

I wish we had a picture of the street sweeper cleaning the track in between the races. That was generally received as the most exciting part by the littlest observers.

Oh well, zoom.

Perfect Park Day

2011-04-08T08:27:00.001-05:00

The days of not too hot, not too cold, peaceful play with friends are for cherishing.

Slide Races

In the tunnel, which they turned into their personal club house.

They ran, climbed and played hard for almost 2 hours. And oh, how these boys needed it.

Mr. Independent. I can see his baby-ness fading before my very eyes.

He desperately needs a haircut, and then I see I picture like this and I think I'll let it go a few more weeks.

A morning of energy expending for the boys and a morning of energy restoring for the mommies. I love how it works that way.

I Just Can't Stop Loving You

2011-04-06T08:26:00.002-05:00

Let's face it, Eli is cute. This is clear. And he is not afraid to weld this to his advantage every. single. night.

He does not care for the going to bed and uses every excuse he can come up with to delay the pain of going to sleep (oh please someone subject me to the pain of going to bed, really please).

He fake cries and when he starts laughing, he keeps trying to cry-laugh. It is endearing and maddening all at the same time.

It is hard to remain the stern faced parent once he starts all this, and boy does he know when we have turned the corner and started giggling.

For your pleasure, 2 minutes after being tucked in:

Also, his new thing is to say, "I just can't stop loving you." Which is so sweet and so perfectly him.

But - it is so hard not to laugh, because all I can think about is Michael Jackson when he says his little catch phrase.

So Eli's advice for delaying the inevitable: Cry until you gain sympathy; laugh like everyone is having a good time; and most of all use an 80's love song tag line to OWN YOUR PARENTS.
{Well not really own, but every minute out of the bed is a victory!}

What, I don't see that crying kid.

2011-04-05T20:04:00.001-05:00

Colin is going through this phase. This phase is that he has an opinion and when he doesn't get his way he pitches quite the fit.

Related: He spends a lot of time sitting in time out composing himself.

And now, well, he has brought this behavior out for public testing. Oy.

Once he has committed to a crying-screaming fit, he is well, committed.

He pretty much requires being removed from the situation to regain control.

So, if you happen to see a not quite two year old sitting alone in a field, a corner, at a table...or so forth; be confident that we are keep in a close eye.

When he has decided to stop screaming like a banshee he can rejoin our group. Pay no attention to the agitated toddler, he will calm himself (at some point) and happily rejoin the festivities.

Praying this is the shortest phase ever. Please.

Family Counts 2011

2011-04-04T13:04:00.000-05:00

The crowd of happy people.

The toddler who will not be left out of any of the big kid fun.

Driving the Boat

Eli is even wearing his fishing hat, how appropriate.

Time to ride the motorcycles.

Did someone say cotton candy? {The kids hit there sugar quota for the month}

Baseball lessons with dad. {everybody together, awww} Eli was the only one interested in the sports games, and he wanted to play them all.

Dancing.

Riding the the race cars.

Ending the day all together.

{What an amazing day with our family. So thankful for the heaping blessings of love he surrounds us with, that it would all be for His glory.}

Superman and His Blankie

2011-04-01T08:55:00.000-05:00

There is something beyond adorable about a superhero with a lovie. Right?

He played all day, basically unaware of his cape and his superpowers.

Which made him all the more precious when he wanted to snuggle. You know, superman needs a hug.

Celebrating is for Everyone

2011-03-28T09:12:00.000-05:00

The birthday parties are as much for the kids as they are for everyone else. We are blessed to have a family that truly enjoys being together. For the most part our parties to simple, low-key, and no frills, but they are more than overwhelming when I look around the room and see how much love these people have for each other.

This year Aunt Elaine was even able to join us. She was evacuated from Japan after the earthquake and has orders from the Navy to spend a month at home. We were so happy she was able to celebrate with us, even if it did make my brother's absence more noticeable. {he is not in Japan, either. he and his plane evacuated just after the earthquake, but he gets to stay with his plane.}

We have great-grandparents to travel and have even been known to dress up in costume.

Aunt Ally had to miss it, but she still made time to make "her favorite blonde nephew" his special Batman cake.

And so you can feel like you were there.

The birthday boy gets showered "I'm thinking of you(s)" in the form of presents, and everyone wins because there are more than enough to share.

When the weather is this amazing and there are bubbles things turn to the patio and no one complains about the lack of seating or the sand under their toes.

And in live action

A day filled with the superheros in my life, and none of them plastic.

Until June and he next birthday gathering...

Colin on Steroids

2011-03-24T12:52:00.000-05:00

For some breathing trouble Colin was having last week he was prescribed a 5 day course of steroids. It did help him breath, and I am so grateful for the medical treatment available to my children.

But...he for sure had some side effects. He was less than his normal happy self. I pray this was his last course of steroids, ever. Cause really, I'm fine with never seeing that particular personality again.

But...he did have a good side effect as well. His eczema completely cleared up. It is the first time I have seen his skin completely clear since he was a couple of months old.

I decided this was a perfect time for a photo session. But, I neglected to consider the first side effect of the ornery personality.

So...

And,

Also,

I'll take it.

Celebrating 4

2011-03-23T23:06:00.000-05:00

The precious baby who I never thought would let me put him down has had another growing up milestone. He turned 4. He is still my loving, sweet, cuddles more than most guy, but he is firmly on the path to big-kidness.

The morning began with a few small gifts from mom and dad.

After he unwrapped each thing he would say, "Oh, thank you, thank you mommy and daddy, thank you." (such a little encourager)

And the one he picked out and waited patiently for until his birthday.

(somewhere far far away there is a Naval Flight Officer (also known as Uncle Matthew) rejoicing at the amazing influence he has had from across the ocean)

Breakfast. Chocolate milk with a chocolate donut covered in chocolate sprinkles.

Yup, he's mine.

He was not interested in making the traditional cupcakes. He chose brownies with chocolate frosting. Sensing a theme here?

And so excited to find some Amazon packages waiting for him after rest time.

He immediately went outside to read his new truck books and enjoy the amazing weather.

(he went to bed with a flashlight and his new books, love)

We ended the night with life group and spending time with some of our dearest friends.

(the car ride over, of course)

Happy Birthday, precious Eli!

What an amazing year this will be.

*More celebrating to come.
On turning 3, and 2, and 1.

The Sounds of Today

2011-03-21T15:56:00.001-05:00

I love this place where I log reminders in words and pictures of our family adventures, but the posts I come back to time and time again are the videos where I can see and hear exactly who these kids were in that moment in time.

We started our day outside. A perfect day in central Alabama with sunshine, a slight breeze and a private backyard that welcomes mommy in her pj's with a cup of coffee.

Walker has started singing. A lot. I love it. Jason and I make up songs all the time and now the boys are doing it, but they also have a few songs they sing all the time. Some of Walker's are about trains, imagine that.

There was some train building and train playing.

Playing in peace. Working as a team. Because they are best friends and have practiced so much.

Mid-day baths.

2/3 of the boys were exhausted from yesterday's adventures and crashed shortly after lunch into naps I was most jealous of.

And now we are back outside again. Enjoying all this Monday has to offer, and listening intently to the breeze and the sounds of little boys.

PS - "Someone" (pictured above) might be in the worst mood ever due to a mix of feeling lousy, steroids, breathing treatments and teething so there might have been some other sounds of the day, but I'm willing to let those fade into distant memory and hold onto these.

He's Got A LOT to Say

2011-03-16T21:57:00.001-05:00

This is a picture of Walker talking to a fence.

I know you have heard the expression, "This kid would talk to a wall."

This is a version of that. Sure, there were people on the other side of that fence, but they were not listening to him. That didn't even cause a pause from him.

Since he was capable of conversation, he has been in one. From the moment he wakes until the moment he sleeps.

At the grocery store today he made ten new friends. Every single person responded and engaged with him. He is truly a joy to talk to and others notice. And then he invited them over to play. Every. Single. One. I just hope not everyone was paying attention to his all too detailed directions.

We call him our little politician (although I really don't wish that on him). He even love babies and makes sure to comment on how cute each one is. Already prepping for the role.

I love that he is a confident, curious, and so expressive.

Lord, help me to lead him to learn how to guide his tongue for Your glory. Cause he has amazing potential.

Grace in the Everyday

2011-03-15T23:03:00.000-05:00

Today was a long, demanding, fun, and filling day. It amazes me that these things can all go together. Motherhood is like that.

Breakfast came with a bit of inspiration from Ann Voskamp. Set the perfect tone for the day.

Then the rhythm of the day came.

There was reading, and more and more they can do it without me. Well, sort of, I mean they aren't actually reading but they follow the story (or make it up) from the clues they do know.

Eli ask questions of Walker in the same way I ask question when we read a book. And my heart explodes.

And Walker can ask the questions, too. They have created a reading corner. Learning centers are developing in our home, organically. Amazing.

Art Time.

Note that blankie is close at hand. It just might be that Colin is the best colorer of them all. He is impressive with a crayon. It may be that mommy won't let him near the paint too often, but whatever.

There is lunch. Some picking up (as a team), some vacuuming (which they love a little too much) and some kitchen cleaning that is completely erased by the end of the day, but today I find joy in it.

There are cuddles after a (much too short) nap.

Colin has a low fever and a rough cough and just needs a bit more mommy. He picked out his sling for the babywearing. No, he says to the back ride in the babyhawk. He choses the hotsling so he can sit on my hip. I'm glad he still chooses me.

Not to far into the afternoon Eli rushes outside, "To hurry and play before the sun goes away!" Walker has no interest until after dinner when daddy refills the sand table. The construction crew of two is perfect.

Bedtime is delayed for no discernible reason and everyone starts to pay the whiney price. Grumpy children are escorted to bed and fall asleep in a flash.

Ahh, I cannot wait for what tomorrow holds.

Today was a good day. Nothing big and special, but millions of little and special.

Swimming in the Bathtub

2011-03-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

The day had gotten long. We were still inside with no real hope of going outside. The energy level was building. We needed a distraction. Why not take a swim in "the big bathtub?"

We blew the Crayola colored bubbles. {Which turned the water a yucky lake color and left some orangey residue on the kids. The kids didn't care, but that might have been a one time deal.}

Worth all the towels and puddles that remained. Now they are ready for swimming pool weather and keep asking if it will be warm enough, tomorrow.

Laundry Baskets

2011-03-08T20:47:00.001-06:00

It almost always ends poorly, but the boys love to play in the laundry baskets. I mean someone always ends up trapped, or bumped, or with a smashed finger. But it sure is fun while it last.

And it's been going on for as long as they've been mobile.

I suppose one day they won't fit, so we will flop and push and hide in the baskets for as long as it last.

Bonus Kids

2011-03-02T21:18:00.000-06:00

My boys cannot remember not having a playmate. There is always someone around and they love it.

They love it even more when five bonus friends come over to play for a bit. A busy morning of sharing, playing, taking turns and enjoying having some extra personalities running around.

Of course, there was train play.

And even bowling. Which is pretty challenging with 3 toddlers knocking over or stealing the pins before they ever get set up.

This didn't last too terribly long.

Lunch. {there was even a half of a sandwich left over}

Ending with some Bugs Bunny as a reward for an amazing clean up job.

8 kids can make a big mess, but when 5 of them can actually help in the clean up they get the task done pretty quickly.

I'm not saying 8 kids is no big deal, but it is totally worth it for the fun and friends.
{and it is far easier than you are thinking in your head right now}

So who's coming to play tomorrow?
{not really, Eli woke up with a fever and feeling pretty puny. maybe next week?}

Moments that Make it All Worthwhile

2011-03-01T15:13:00.000-06:00

The joy of watching these two "read" together is something I cannot truly put into words.

And round about three years ago.

The photo album of my dreams involves years and years of pictures depicting this scene. {with the addition of little brother, just as soon as he learns to sit still for 2.7 seconds}

Rituals

2011-02-28T21:52:00.000-06:00

Warmer weather finds us back at the waterfall.

Joy. Ease. Simple. Comfort. Family. Grateful.

The boys love these trips so much. We all do. Easy lunch or dinner. Outdoor dining conducive to loud busy boys. The promise of open free running play as soon as the burgers, chicken fingers, grilled cheese, fries and tater tots are gone. Returning home with happy, full, tired, sweaty, and oh-so-loved little boys. Amazing.

A visit in 2009

31

2011-02-27T22:24:00.001-06:00

Birthdays are a unique mix of reflections and beginnings.

I have been able to reflect on an amazing year and cannot wait to see what the Lord unfolds this year.

James 4:15, "...If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that."

I do not know what tomorrow will bring, but I am grateful for today and ready to see what comes this year.

Bubbles

2011-02-24T07:42:00.001-06:00

These boys (and the slowest dachshund) love to chase bubbles. Oh what fun to see them dance in the afternoon sun.

I blow until I feel dizzy then snap a few pics. This is much harder than it sounds. But oh how these moments, the plain ordinary ones, are the ones I want to be able to remember long past their bubble chasing days.

PS - Batman has been hanging out here all week. Why not?

I would like to blame this hairdo on it being post-nap, but really it kind of always looks like this. And can we talk about the amazing eye lashes? We call them his Disney eyes. You know how the Disney movie characters always have the big eyes with the super long eye lashes? That's him. All the girls are going to be jealous one day.

Here is to chasing the uncatchable and finding joy in it.

Puzzle Time

2011-02-23T07:44:00.000-06:00

All 3. Working together. On the same thing. Wow.

Shades of the future.

Keepers

2011-02-22T07:53:00.001-06:00

Jason is so good with the camera. Here is the proof. Straight out of the camera, folks.

A Saturday Spent Wandering

2011-02-21T07:20:00.001-06:00

First the Railroad Park. I really enjoy atmosphere there. Lots of different people, families, young and old, exercising, hanging out, chasing kids, just enjoying the space. Now it will take a few years for the shade trees grow and it can be enjoyable in the hot Alabama summers, but with spring like temps in the mid-70s it is great.

My little superman.

Trains go by.

After much running, playing and watching it was off to lunch at Newk's. The first visit for the boys and myself. My sandwich (veggie club) was great, the kid's meals were okay.

Then an already-into-nap-time visit to the McWane center's big machine's day. We weren't going to go. We had decided on the park, but after driving by we knew we had to stop.

Our youngest member hung in there, but was extra cuddly.

This kid takes great pictures.

Walker was not there to pose for a picture. He was there to figure out exactly how to make this fire truck go.

No way were all three of them going to look at the camera at the same time, that would be too easy.

And our wanderings brought us home to end the day piled in Daddy's lap watching train videos on YouTube.

And now we lock these memories away for rainy days.

The Park and Ramblings

2011-02-18T14:05:00.001-06:00

Random thoughts from our park adventure to share.

1. Walker is getting old enough to be a big help. What, I'm not alone in this??? He can get out snack, help clean up (like for real help, not "we are learning to be a part of the process"), report to me on what his brothers are doing and reason with his brothers among other things. Wow, so helpful to this mommy who has felt like "all babies, all the time" for so long.

2. Ninety percent of the time at the park I am shadowing Colin. He is the one most obviously in need of the supervision. But yesterday, there was a point were Eli was stuck climbing up part of the playground so I went to rescue him. I was too late and another parent had intervened (all the while Eli is screaming NO, NO I WANT MY MOMMY! (which I suppose is a good thing))

And in the moment I walked away from Colin he rolled down into a small ditch and was helped by another mom by the time I got back. Mom of the Year, folks. Her, not me.

Note the two sliding outfits.

So I dusted him off, changed his clothes and we continued out play time.

When the boys were younger I probably would have headed home immediately. Worried about all manner of things including if I was capable of mothering multiple children, and if the other folks at the park were judging me.

But I am over both. I cannot mother multiple children (or one for that matter) without the Lord. He strengthens me and sometimes provides strangers to help with a wayward child. Hallelujah.

I say this not to say, look how I have evolved and changed. It is to say, I'm still making mistakes and sometimes struggling with chasing these kids around. But that is okay, and it is totally worth any and all effort.

3. And lastly, Eli is still cute. And all three of them need haircuts.

See you at the park next time; deep thoughts, falling children and all.

Warmth

2011-02-16T09:35:00.001-06:00

After a dreary cold couple of months, the sun is peaking through. The dachshunds wait all winter for this: opened curtains and perfect sunny spots to warm themselves.

Can't you hear her saying thank you? {and, didn't you know dachshunds are part cat? well, except for all the barking.}

So thankful the sun has come out and started warming us toward spring. Let's all soak it up.

Part of Beth's You Capture: Warmth

Still Babywearing

2011-02-15T20:59:00.000-06:00

Or, Toddler-Wearing, whatever you would like to call it.

He has been feeling a bit rough lately. He was absolutely giddy when I pulled out the babyhawk. So fun! It improved both of our moods so much.

And my how time has flown. Same baby, same momma, but so much growing up in between.

Happy Valentine's Day 2011

2011-02-14T21:24:00.001-06:00

We had a great day, and I hope you did too!

We usually don't make a huge deal of the holiday, but today we enjoyed the day as a reminder that it is okay to have fun. It okay to play all day, eat cupcakes and use glitter. In fact, it is advisable.

I think tomorrow will have more play, cupcakes and yes {even} glitter. Here's to celebrating every day!

It is Happening So Fast

2011-02-11T09:03:00.000-06:00

The growing up. I mean just one year. Wow.

Snow 2011

Snow 2010

Snow: On Being Cold and Wet

2011-02-10T14:10:00.001-06:00

We wait with eager anticipation and pray that we will get at least enough to play in. We watch it come so close time and time again and miss us completely and are so disappointed.

Then, it happens we get a couple of inches that sticks overnight and is waiting for us when we wake! Woohoo. It is so pretty and fresh looking and looks like so much fun to go and play in! Here we go!

{Mommy's thought process: "Hmm, I guess the boys will wear jeans. Those are the thickest paints they own and that cover everyone's ankles. Long sleeve shirts should be enough, I mean under the coats, right? Hats, Ahhh, we all have hats...how cute. Gloves, or mittens or the like. Oh, look I can find 3. Which is good except for the 6 hands...8 counting mommy's. Hmm...everyone gets one glove. Shoes, we should wear old tennis shoes not new ones sure they aren't weather proof, but no sense in getting the new shoes all wet. And away we go." So you know, I am totally prepared for this, totally.}

The first few minutes...this is fun. It is so pretty and we haven't been outside in forever and the fresh air is nice.

Oops, somebody has broken the thin layer of ice on the sand table that is filled with dirty rain water. Ewww, now we have one glove between us all and lots of cold fingers.

Baby does NOT want to touch the snow. Not. At. All. It is cold and wet and I understand. Basically he is put off that there is this white stuff all over the places where he wants to play.

Walker really wants to make snowballs, but it is hard to do it with one glove. He tries, but it is a bit frustrating to try and do it without freezing your fingers off. I know, cause I made a few and yeah cold.

Eli retreats his hands to his pockets and DOES NOT want to have snowballs thrown at him. This presents a dilemma, as I'm sure you can see. One child with snowballs, one child who collapses into hysterics if hit with a snowball...use your imagination.

Baby does enjoy running around with Walker in the crunchy snow, but he too is against any sort of snowball fight.

We all reach our cold limit after about 30 minutes. 30 minutes of mostly fun with a bit of tears thrown in as well. The verdict: Snow is cold and wet and we don't really have the gear to enjoy it, but it sure is pretty to look at from inside the warm house.

{I'm heading to the thrift store in April when everyone cleans out their closets and buying some snow gear for next year, just in case. Which means, of course, it won't snow here for the next 10 years. My apologies in advance.}

Part of Beth's You Capture: Cold.

Anniversary 10.0

2011-02-02T17:00:00.001-06:00

My anniversary surprise trip in detail. Husbands, take note, this is the way to a woman's heart. A completely planned and arranged for vacation. If you really want to take the easy way out, just plan on Savannah and Jason will have done all the leg work for you.

1.27.2011

7:00am. Wake to Eli demanding chocolate milk and discover a surprise box on my night stand. It is filled cards revealing a getaway trip with all the details handled, but I am not privey too. Quickly determine my husband is the best and I am the luckiest lady having a tenth anniversary out there.

8:00pm. Bring sleepy children to Gammy and Grin's house for the drop off. They couldn't be more happy to be rid of us.

1.28.2011

5:30am. The alarm sounds to begin the day's adventure.

10:15am. Arrive in Atlanta for a short lay-over and promise each other that we will never wait until 10:15 again before having a cup of coffee. We drink 2 cups while watching planes land and we both agree that Seattle's Best regular ole cup o'coffee is better than Starbucks.

4:30pm We arrive in Savannah after a bit of a delayed flight. We flew in on a completely full flight. The poor business guy next to me put on his headphones and closed his eyes after just a few minutes of me crying though Ann Voskamps book.

5:00pm arrive at Hotel Avia. It is the bomb diggity, y'all. Most defintiley the nicest room we have ever stayed in. I discover we have the "romance package" complete with a suite, chocolate dipped strawberries and champagne. Appropriate, yes?

7:00pm. Dinner at The Olde Pink House. Amazing. The setting is perfect. The food is amazing and the company is even better. Our waiter is very personable and likes to use the word "tremendous."

The fried green tomato BLT salad really is the best salad I have ever eaten.

9:30pm. We crawl into bed go to sleep early! This is how folks with 3 kids and who are self-employed vacation...rest! No laundry, deadlines, dishes, help tickets....

1.29.2011

7:30am. This appears to be as late as I can sleep, but still 10 hours of sleep is about double the norm, so I'm feeling pretty good.

9:00am. Breakfast at the hotel. Everywhere in Savannah serves shrimp and grits, morning, noon and night. It is Savannah's 'thing'.

9:30am. Our self-guided, exploring tour of Savannah. We discover that the shops on the river are the typical tourist places. As we move inland every 3 blocks there is a park square. Each one has some rich historical significance and is georgeous. The shops become more refined and unique. We pick out several homes that would be sufficient for us. The weather is perfect. The scenery is amazing. There might not be a more beautiful town and there has never been a better walk.

(cream soda for me and a cherry coke for him)

After lunch at Leopold's, where the ice cream is the star of the meal, we make it to the most amazing park I have ever seen, Forsyth Park. It seems impossible that this is a public place. There is much activity, mostly locals and everyone of them has a dog.

3:00pm. We take the ferry across the river to the Westin...for a trip to the spa, yes please! We have our first ever couples massage and come out all relaxed and smelling good.

8:00pm. Dinner at Elizabeth's on 37th. Y'all, eat here. The Captain took our order and recommended the wine, take his recommendations folks.

(picture in the hotel mirror, all fancy before dinner)

10:30pm. Another early night...love it.

1.30.2011

8:15am. I finally give in and get out of bed. In room coffee and reading this morning.

10:15am. We put our name on the Lady and Sons wait list.

11:00am. We hear the "Come and get it" triangle ring outside Lady and Sons and within 15 minutes the entire three floor restaurant is filled. Mind you, this is a very low tourists time. Wow. We enjoy the fried chicken, green beans and lima beans the most. Gammy makes Paula Deen's banana pudding better than Paula Deen's restaurant. (Second "best thing I ever ate" experience with the hoecakes, and honestly I'm a bit let down)

12:00pm. We head to Tybee Island to enjoy the gorgeous weather. The beach is beautiful, but still a bit cool in the wind. {I know, I know, it is January so we are doing pretty well to be out there at all}

2:00pm. We climb the steps to the lighthouse and tour the grounds.

{we made it to the top!}

3:30pm. Grown up nap time. Don't be jealous.

5:00pm. Coffee and walking. If we could do this for an hour everyday I think we could conquer anything.

8:00pm. It is Sunday night and things are much calmer than they were the previous two evenings in the town. We head to Jazz'd for a low key dinner of tapas.

10:30pm. Jason admits he feels lousy and just needs to rest. Poor guy, gets a stomach problem to end the vacation.

1.31.2011

8:00am. Jason is definitely feeling puny, but puts on a happy face for the last day of our journey.

9:00am. A short walk in the rain to grab some breakfast. The quiche and the stuffed crousiants are fantastic at Goose Feathers.

10:00am. Jason indulges me in some last minute shopping to pick up a things we really liked along the way. There were lots of unique shops with great shop owners. The shopping right on the river is touristy and leaves something to be desired, but the shops along the squares and historic streets are great.

1:00pm. Airport bound. So sad to be leaving the dream, but so refreshed from our time.

6:30pm. Home and able to wrap our arms around our sweet babies.

It was the perfect balance of scheduled events and relaxed down time. We could not have enjoyed our time more. Thank you, Jesus, for this amazing time of restoration and encouragement together.

{Resolve to do something this amazing at least once every 10 years.}

10 Years and a Million Miles

2011-01-27T08:42:00.000-06:00

We began as babies. We really had no idea what this marriage thing was going to be or could be. We knew we were in love and we knew that we both felt the strong call of the Lord to marry.

The Lord has been so faithful to us in our marriage. He has blessed us in each other, with children, with family, with friends and growth, but mostly he has blessed us by drawing us near to Him.

We are different people than we were 10 years ago. I have grown so much I barely know the girl he took as his bride. I am so grateful to the Lord of Hosts who saw fit to provide me with this amazing husband to guide me and lead me. Saying "I do" 10 years ago started a journey that has made me want to say thousands times, "I do, I do, I do!"

Jason teaches me so much about my Savior who pursues me, who loves me, who desires good for me, who empowers me, who forgives me, who provides for me, and who comforts me. He embodies Ephesians 5:25, "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,"

Same spot, this past summer. Picture taken with a cell phone.

{My 10-year-ago-self would be laughing at the thought of pictures taken with a phone and then published to my personal website. HA!}

{PS 2010 2009}

F.I.V.E

2011-01-24T08:21:00.000-06:00

He did it. He turned 5 and he did it so gracefully. I am so grateful for each moment with this precious boy and to see what the Lord has in store for him.

He is so very happy to be 5 like his friends Harrison and Bryant and he is so excited to be able to do 5 year old things. He isn't quite sure what those 5 year old things are, but they are going to be, well, exciting.

The day before his birthday there was celebrating with friends.

On the morning of his birthday there were presents and donuts.

And the great-grandparents visit with lunch and a trip to Target to pick out his very own present.

Guess what he picked?

There was birthday dinner with cheese dip and a quesadilla.

Saturday there was a birthday party with lots of family and lots of love.

And the ah-mazing cake made my Aunt Ally.

Walker is determined, smart, inventive, a leader, happy, busy, loud, quiet, energetic and I cannot wait to see how the Lord uses his talents.

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the father through him." Colossians 3:17

An Exceptional-Ordinary Friday

2011-01-17T08:49:00.000-06:00

Friday is our off day. No school. No plans. Just catch up around the house, you know, prepare for the weekend.

The morning started off well, I spent a good hour on the phone with a friend solving all of our problems while we both worked on finding the order in our respective houses. That is my favorite kind of cleaning. It is like having help, but no one actually having to see your mess.

It started with changing the sheets. Which means there is a pile of blankets to play in. Oh, what fun.

There was much car racing.

And train running.

And cranes for the really big projects.

And much, "No Running in the House!"

And Baby's first time at the kids' table, and his first taste of pizza. And yes, everyone was still in PJs at lunch time.

Well, he actually ate that the big table. The freedom of the kids' table was a bit too much.

And, honestly he pretty much at a banana and chocolate milk for lunch. The dogs had pizza.

Then came rest, a quick rest before setting out on an adventure. This is a rarity. Usually our adventures happen before rest, to fill our mornings. Not this day, I was feeling (maybe over-) confident.

We ventured across town to the land of all things jumpy, bouncy, open play and climate controlled.

And we burned off a week's worth of energy in an hour and half. It was more fun than even I predicted. And in a strange turn of events, Walker was the super-confident one. He tried every challenge, made friends and ran wild until I was sure he might pass out.

We even ate at a restaurant on a Friday night. Now this is exceptional.

Good thing it was the loud-okay-to-be-messy type of restaurant.

And the evening came to a close with PJs and a show.

Was every moment of the day perfect? No. But, I choose to only remember the perfect parts, and I am filled up with the memories.

All In

2011-01-11T13:14:00.004-06:00

Our beloved Auburn Tigers are the National Champions. National Champions!

This Auburn football thing is a family thing, both on the large and small scale. It isn't Auburn fans, it's the Auburn family.

We have been waiting a very long time. Much longer than since 2004, but it feels a little like this season is the completion of the 2004 season. Jason and I were in a very different place in 2004.

(2004 tailgate)

We were married, graduated and living in Auburn, without any children. We went to almost every game, home and away. It was an amazing season, but being left out of the title game left things feeling unfinished. That was our last football season in Auburn. We moved away and started adding precious little boys to our family. Travel, time and expense for games slipped down the priority list, but that hasn't effected our allegiance.

(2009 football season)

Now we watch most games at Uncle Matt and Aunt Ally's house with 5 little ones running around. With playmates, toys and entertainment abounding the kiddos are pretty good at playing together during the game play.

Last night was no different. Jason decided we would be watching the game together and I'm so glad he did.

The icy roads, late playtime, and cold night could not keep us away. We checked the roads (all open) and the temps (above freezing) and put the kids in their PJs (even gave early baths) and headed out.

The kids were perfect. The littlest was laid down at kick-off and I didn't hear a peep from him all night. The fab four were laid down for a movie night with popcorn and never ending Netflix in the second quarter. In a football miracle they all laid quietly watching movies until almost midnight.

So that left the adults the fret, jump, scream, cheer, sigh, take deep breaths, and enjoy watching our boys WIN, WIN, WIN.

It was amazing. Lots of ups and downs, but ending with the National Championship victory. The kids came out right before Byrum's kick, so they were able to celebrate with us. Eli kept saying, "They weawy did it. They weawy did it." Amen, kid.

I would have loved to have been at the game. It would have been overwhelming, but I really liked being right where we were supposed to be. With our little part of the Auburn family. And trust me, we are All In. War Eagle!

Say Cheese

2011-01-09T22:02:00.000-06:00

We are finally feeling better around here.
(last week)

Hallelujah! So thankful for a God who lets us go through these times of (so very) minor illnesses and heals just as quickly.

Through this "hold me" time, Colin has gotten quite used to having his picture taken by the computer. But now, he is really happy about it!

And he has perfected his "say cheese" face.

Beyond Adorable.

The Most Beautiful Party, Ever.

2011-01-06T10:31:00.002-06:00

Last night, upon Jason arriving home, the whispers began. There were secrets being kept from mommy. There was much busyness in the playroom. After dinner was complete Walker announces, "Your party is ready."

Walker had decided to set up a party in my honor so, of course, it had to be a secret from me.

Eli and Walker build a myriad of sculptures to decorate the wall with.

And he decorated with hanging binoculars. Cause that is the look he was going for.

He asked to turn on the fireplace, because that would make it, "most beautiful."

He was right.

He asked for music. So he went and opened my computer. (I don't think these kids will ever know what a stereo is.) We choose the Pandora Beach Boys station. It was perfect.

We were told to sit in front of the fire (in their perfect-size-for-kids chairs), and we were showered with gifts of toys from every corner of the house.

And Daddy taught the boys things like making darts stick to ceiling fans (oy).

And were you aware that half of a cement mixer barrel makes a great dachshund party hat? Doesn't she look oh so amused?

Baby was still in extreme cuddle mode (as he was all day yesterday), so he didn't mind one bit.

At one point during the festivities I looked over at Jason and said, "This is when I wish we were on a reality television show, so every moment could be documented forever." I mean I don't want every moment documented, only the good ones, and this was a very good one.

I can't believe Walker came up with a thought like this all on his own and executed it. There were decorations, music, dancing, presents, and most importantly all of us in the same room enjoying every moment. It was a perfect night for a party.