the knights tale

Way Behind

2012-02-13T14:20:00.001-05:00

Okay...I am going to simply admit it - I am not good at keeping up with this blog thing. I do good for a while and then life happens and often times it is one of the first things to get dropped. I don't know why...it could be that it is not my favorite thing to do OR it could be that I am not clear on what the purpose of writing is - is it for me? is it for my kids? is it for far flung family and friends? OR it could be I don't have much to say that is worth saying OR maybe I have too much to say and get overwhelmed. I am sure that you get the picture!

With that all of that said I have been reading a book called "Organized Simplicity". I think that it leaves some gaps but truth be told it has given me a lot to think about. One of the things that I have taken from the book is that it encourages you to know the value or the purpose of all things in your life - from material possessions to activities on the calendar - and to get rid of the clutter. This goes along perfectly with my word/goal of 2012 - intentionality.

In the process of prayerfully evaluating all things in life (which I am sure will be a consistent process that is never completely completed) I come to the blog. I have come to the conclusion that it is something of value and worth however I want to be more purposeful and clear on the reason that I write. I am going to finish up 2011 and have it printed for our family bookshelf. Moving on to 2012 things might look a little different but you are invited to join us on the journey ----

So now to once again...try to catch up and finish up 2011!

Playing Catch Up!

2011-12-05T13:30:00.001-05:00

It seems that I am always having to back track or catch up! I am at it once again...headed back to OCTOBER! There is so much that has happened :)

Happy First Birthday Elisha!

2011-11-25T20:57:00.000-05:00

Our Trip To Atlanta - Part One

2011-11-10T21:08:00.000-05:00

We took a trip home to Atlanta to see family - a Thanksgiving/Christmas trip. It was a wonderful time and we are all so thankful for every minute! The boys and I headed down first and Nathan followed about a week later.
This was a big trip for a lot of reasons but one of the trickiest parts was getting to Atlanta - the boys and I went by car. I was a little nervous but was fairly confident that if we planned it right but more importantly prayed really hard that everything would work out just fine. It did! The boys were amazing and super patient...Judah kept me company the whole time talking about everything he saw out the window and anything that popped into his little head. Elisha was patient and played with toys and did a good deal of talking too.
We broke the trip up into two days - not too overwhelming and we got to stop and spend the night with one of our favorite families...the Lyons! The boys enjoyed all of the attention the Lyon girls gave them and of course loved playing outside at their house even though it was freezing. My heart was full when we pulled out of their driveway the next morning...such a special friend that my heart loves dearly.

Lunch, potty break and a little leg stretching on the way to Wake Forest - a beautiful afternoon!

(Funny note...Judah calls Rest Stops - PeePee Houses...everytime he would need to stop he would tell me it was time to find a PeePee House...oh his little brain!)

Just minutes after we got to Stephanie's Elisha was running around and took a tumble on the concrete...his first big fall and he handled it just like a big boy.

Ice Cream after dinner!

Wordless Wednesday - Not Really a Big Fan

2011-11-02T16:13:00.000-04:00

Trick-Or-Treating on Embassy Row

2011-10-31T15:07:00.000-04:00

I am sure that I have mentioned it once or twice...we live in a really cool city! Embassy Row opens up their doors for trick-or-treating. We were not sure what to expect but we knew it was something that we could not pass up. When the kiddos woke up from their naps we put on our costumes and headed down to Embassy Row to check things out and of course get a few pieces of candy along the way. (Our friend Alicia was curious too so she joined us for the adventure.)
It was a neat experience to trick-or-treat "on foreign soil" and to get a little glimpse into some of the embassies. Judah thought it was amazing to get candy at each place we went and even more amazing that we let him eat all the candy that he wanted. He also thought it was cool that he got to invite people to church - when we were given candy he gave the person an invite card to church - he called them "church tickets". How I pray that Judah and Elisha will have hearts that long to bring the Gospel to the nations! Judah even got to invite someone from Pakistan to church... talk about the nations at our doorstep.

Elisha was just a long for the ride this year but he was very happy that his big brother was willing

to share some of his candy...yep dumdum #2!

Halloween Festival at Turtle Park

2011-10-28T14:28:00.000-04:00

Turtle Park is one of our favorite parks. We love to play there but we also are thankful because our church has a great relationship with the people who take care of it and run the community events. This is our second year that Restoration Church has participated in the Halloween Festival - we have a photo booth, give out candy, Joey is the "head master" of the costume parade and this year we added free popcorn. As our church continues to grow we have more and more volunteers and so this year we were able to just attend the event as a family (no responsibilities!). The boys had a great time playing, watching all of the costumes, walking in the parade, watching the Charlie Brown movie on the big screen and Elisha had his first piece of candy - a dumdum - which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Judah picked out the Halloween costumes this year - without any prompting he decided that he wanted to be a fireman again this year (with the same costume!) and that Elisha should be a dog - a fire dog. It worked for me! I am pretty sure that we are not going to get off so easy next year.

Wordless Wednesday - When Mom is Not Fast Enough

2011-10-19T13:49:00.000-04:00

Family Day at Pierce Mill

2011-10-15T14:02:00.000-04:00

It is no secret that Nathan loves just about anything that has to do with history. When our friend Justin asked to borrow Nathan's civil war clothes for an event at Pierce Mill I knew we would have to check it out. It was a beautiful day and we had fun learning about how the mill works! I love that Nathan enjoys taking part in opportunities like this. Even though I sometimes have doubts about how much we will actually enjoy things we always end up having a great time and I am always glad that we did whatever it was.

(I am posting this weeks after we went - when we go past the mill now Judah will still talk about the water and how it turned the wheel and ground up the corn...he has a great memory! And I think that he had a lot of fun...I hope he will enjoy history and learning new things as much as his dad does.)

24 Hour Road Trip to Wake Forest!

2011-10-10T10:50:00.000-04:00

Nathan was given the opportunity to share what is going on here in DC with the Board of Trustees/Visitors at SEBTS. Not only was he given the chance to speak with this special group of people but he was also given the humbling opportunity to share briefly during chapel. This school holds such a special place in our hearts that we were more than honored (and humbled) to be able to participate and share what the Lord is doing but also to say thanks for our time at Southeastern.

Like I said SEBTS holds a special place in our hearts but there are also VERY special people still in Wake Forest that we love and adore. So for that reason our entire family took a 24 hour trip to Wake Forest - the boys and I went simply to say 'hey" to friends. Even though our time was very quick we had very full hearts when we headed home.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-06T10:13:00.000-04:00

For some reason pumpkins have been a really big deal around here. We look at them when we are at the grocery store, Judah constantly asks when we are going to go to the pumpkin patch, we even bought a pumpkin squash at the farmers market. Not only do we look at them and talk about them we have to carve them - did you know that squash can be carved just like the big orange pumpkins! With all of this excitement over pumpkins it made our trip to the pumpkin patch a little more exciting than in the past. We had beautiful weather and Brandi came with us to be an extra set of hands and to get out of the city for a little while. A fun time for all!

Wordless Wednesday - Pumpkins

2011-10-05T10:27:00.000-04:00

Sharing

2011-10-04T04:00:00.001-04:00

Sharing. Yep! That's a big word in the Knight house - I spend most of the day talking about it, reminding and encouraging it, praising when it happens, disciplining and correcting when it doesn't happen and feeling deep conviction at the end of the day that I have not been so good at it either.

My sweet Judah knows that he should share, that he doesn't really like to share and that sharing is hard. He knows that the bible tells us that we should treat others the same way that we want to be treated and he really likes it when other people obey this principle and share with him. In fact he likes it so much that he is very quick to tell the person who is sharing that "he/she is a really good sharer". It is the part of the sentence that comes next behind a handsome little grin that gets me every time..."I am a good sharer too sometimes and sometimes I am not a good sharer". Sigh.

I know, I know he is three and that we are only just beginning in the world of sharing. However, as we are striving to teach Judah about the truth in God's Word and shepherd his heart to be a generous and unselfish man of God I am keenly aware of how he is a little mirror of me. That the truth I am seeking to instill in his little wayward and sinful heart is what needs to be instilled in my own. I have to admit I am not very good at sharing either...sometimes I am and sometimes I am not. I was warned that God would use my children to sanctify me in ways I could never imagine. I have seen glimpses...oh how those glimpses are getting to be so much more!

I guess we are more of a tangled up mess than I thought - even though we both have a lot of growing to do when it comes to sharing I am thankful that I can see the Lord working in both of us. I am thankful for grace and forgiveness. I am thankful that even though he won't be perfect Judah will still be able to help shepherd his little brother's heart when it comes to sharing. After all, he is a good sharer sometimes!

"Treat others the same way that you want them to treat you."

Luke 6:31

Judah's Thoughts

2011-10-04T04:00:00.000-04:00

Top Ten Things Judah Likes About Dad

(in his own words - I tried to type exactly what he was saying without changing anything)

1. He is cool and awesome.
2. He plays race cars with me. VRRRMMM!
3. I jump on the bed. I jump to Dad. Dad throws me hard back on the bed.
4. I like that he has brown hair and gets his hair cut like me in the kitchen.
5. Daddy works at Starbucks. (explanation = Nathan studies at Starbucks)
6. He takes me on special trips but milkshakes is not a special trip.
7. Daddy reads books all the time and uses markers too.
8. He has a really big head...bigger than me. (explanation = Nathan is taller than Judah)
9. Dad is good at driving the Big Red Car.

10. He is me and Elisha's dad and his name is Nafan and he is mommy's sweetheart.

Too Big!

2011-10-03T10:03:00.002-04:00

I don't know why the fact the Elisha is too big to fit in our bathroom sink makes me tear up. Maybe it is the realization that he is fast approaching a year old or maybe it is just that bath time is a little more complicated on those "quick bath" kind of nights. Whatever the case...he is just too big (and wiggly) to take a bath in the sink. He has no problem with this - in fact he squeals with delight when it is time to get in the tub and then quickly returns to stand by the side of the tub when he has his pjs on. He has no fear of the water...you can pour it on his head to wash his hair or he can just dump his face in it or pour it on himself and he just shakes it off. It is a battle to keep him sitting on his bottom, on his side of the tub and from drinking the bath water. He loves the water or maybe just the fact that he is not crammed in the sink!

Could we have a swimmer on our hands?

Papa Bear Oatmeal

2011-10-02T16:21:00.000-04:00

Nathan has been away with the men of Restoration Church for a retreat. There are 16 of them and I think that they went somewhere in West Virginia. I talked with him briefly and he told me that it was snowing, the cabins had wood burning fireplaces (anyone who knows him knows this is a really big deal!) and that the guys were eating good and were growing in friendships and most importantly their faith. I am thankful for the men of our church may their number continue to increase and their godliness increase even more!

On to Papa Bear Oatmeal! When Nathan is gone meals around the Knight home are kept really simple - not that they are really fancy when he is around :). We tried out Paula Deen's Papa Bear Oatmeal on Friday night for dinner and have had it every day this weekend (not for dinner but breakfast). I mean can a mom really say no to the request for oatmeal loaded with fruity goodness and to second helpings?! We tweaked the original a little based on what was in the pantry and little boy taste buds but it was still delicious.

Papa Bear Oatmeal (Paula Deen)

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
3 1/2 cups water
raisins
sliced banana
sliced strawberries (we used apples)
heavy cream (we used half and half)
brown sugar - for serving (we cooked it in and added a little cinnamon)
honey - for serving

In a medium saucepan, bring water to boil. Stir in oats and simmer until almost thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the raisins and cook 2-3 minutes more. Oatmeal will be thick. Serve oatmeal into bowls (4 servings). Add toppings. Stir together and enjoy.

*We found that mixing the banana, apples, and the honey into the oatmeal before we poured the half and half made it creamy and delicious (it only take a little cream) Yum!

No pictures of food BUT this is what I saw when the oatmeal was all gone!

Wordless Wednesday - Caught in the Act!

2011-09-28T11:00:00.000-04:00

Growing Up...Too Fast!

2011-09-26T14:14:00.000-04:00

As I watch my babies grow up into little boys my heart is filled with joy and wonder. The days pass quickly and the moments pass even faster. May I store these moments as treasures in my heart and ponder the goodness of the Lord always. One day (sooner than I want) my little boys will grow up to be men - how my heart prays that they will love the Lord their God with all their hearts, souls and minds and treasure Him forever. I am thankful for the moments that I am given to enjoy and to trust the Lord.

Wordless Wednesday - Soul Rest

2011-09-21T04:00:00.000-04:00

Celebrating Ella Kade!

2011-09-18T15:27:00.000-04:00

We had the wonderful opportunity to celebrate Ella Kade Craft and her mommy with a shower hosted by Restoration Church. Page is so loved by our church and so many mommies in our community! I am so thankful that I got to be a part of such a special event...to watch the women love and adore Page, to see the excitement about coming arrival of Ella Kade,to pray for the Crafts, and to see Page (as she always does) radiate the beauty of the Gospel. What a sweet time.

Adalyn Machelle Knight

2011-09-12T13:46:00.000-04:00

Our sweet little Adalyn Machelle was born today! How my heart longs to be in Georgia to hold her, to hug her mom and dad and to play with her big sister. We are not there we are here but we will be there in November - Let the count down begin!

Adalyn

We love you sweet girl!

We can not wait to meet you!

Be good to your mommy and daddy and remember to share them with Brooklyn :)

Wordless Wednesday - Yes, My Hands are Full...of Good Things!

2011-09-07T09:53:00.001-04:00

www.amyfree.com

9 Months

2011-09-01T14:34:00.000-04:00

My little stinker is 9 months old! We went for his check up today - 28" tall - 19lbs and 6oz. He is growing and developing right on track. He is into everything, constantly on the move, intrigued with Judah and what he is doing, loves to explore (especially things that are off limits), fearless and full of life...I am certain that this is only the beginning of how this little boy will keep us on our toes for the rest of his life.

Wordless Wednesday - Slow Down Please!

2011-08-24T13:27:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday - Craft Time?

2011-08-17T13:20:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-09T21:13:00.000-04:00

Puddles

2011-08-08T21:10:00.000-04:00

Every time it rains Judah talks about puddles. He adores putting on his rain yellow rain boots and jumping in puddles. I think that it is because it is out of the ordinary or maybe it is just pure plain fun to jump and watch and feel the water splash. Even though it is not always possible to indulge this childhood delight I do like to when we can. I soak up the belly laughs and high pitch squeals as much as his socks and shorts soak up the rain water.
There had been a few days where it had sprinkled and Judah had begged to go out and find puddles. We were disappointed every time because of sun and extreme heat it would be as dry as a bone once w got outside. With that said the other night Elisha was in the bed and Judah was bathed and in his pjs when we heard it - POURING rain. Judah began to ask if we could jump in puddles in the morning but I had a different idea. Into raincoats and boots we were going to play! I am so thankful that I broke the bedtime rules and that we ran and played...together in the pouring rain, chasing puddles, looking for rivers headed down hills to drains, laughing and jumping, squealing and running, just the two of us -together.

Extra Time With Sayde!

2011-08-06T20:43:00.000-04:00

We have been able to spend a little extra time with Sayde this week! It has been so much fun having her around. Joey recently ruptured his Achilles Tendon and so Sayde has been spending a little extra time with us so that both Joey and Page can rest a little in hopes that the recovery will be super fast. Not to mention we love any excuse to have this little girl around!

I am so thankful that Brandi and Michelle are here - we (I) put them straight to work with helping out with adventures for the kiddos. It was all around fun!

Cars 2

2011-07-28T02:21:00.000-04:00

Cars 2...a perfect first movie at the theater and some special one on one time with Dad. We had been waiting for time where both of us could take Judah because we just knew he would be thrilled about the whole experience. In fact we had it planned for a few days later but we woke up and decided to be spontaneous and just surprise Judah with a super special trip with Dad. We were right...he was thrilled.

I was confident that with a bag of popcorn and his best buddy (dad) Judah was going to do great at the theater. However, when I went to check the times the movie was playing and realized that the time that would work best was a 3D movie I was no longer so sure. When the boys left I warned Nathan that it might not go as well as we were hoping considering Judah was going to have to wear glasses to watch the movie. Of course that little stinker made mom look crazy and wore his glasses the whole movie AND then continued to wear the glasses constantly for the next few days. (Yes...we know Nathan was supposed to have dropped the glasses in a box somewhere but he did not know that until after the fact.) I think that Nathan can convince Judah that anything is cool even nerdy looking 3D glasses...so my kid wants to be just like his dad that is not such a bad thing!

Wordless Wednesday - Entertaining Himself

2011-07-27T13:58:00.001-04:00

Wordless Wednesday - Playgroup Buddies (Sebastian)

2011-07-20T20:55:00.000-04:00

Fourth of July

2011-07-04T20:18:00.034-04:00

DC is definitely a fun place to celebrate the fourth of July...there are so many options for celebrating! This year we spent the morning at a local parade with the Crafts (the parade was noted in Southern Living...pretty cool!). Things started with a parade and then ended with free hot dogs, bounce things, lemonade, watermelon and of course some time playing on the playground. There were tons of people and it was truly a lot of fun - next year we might even participate in the parade instead of just watching.

After nap time the celebrations continued. We headed to Laura and Haigh's for a fabulous Fourth of July cookout! Yep...a real cookout including grilled burgers and hanging in the backyard (even if some of it was an alley) - oh how I miss cookouts!We had a wonderful time and soaked up every minute of celebrating with friends until it was time to call it a day. Even though we headed home a little early in order to get our little guys bathed and in the bed most of people who were at the party walked over to the National Mall for the fireworks...I thought that was cool enough that it had to be mentioned. We look forward to the day when we keep the boys up late and finish the day in true DC fashion. This year we watched the show on TV and it was a perfect ending to a super fun day.

Family Vacation - Part Three

2011-07-03T21:33:00.002-04:00

Of course no trip to Williamsburg can be complete without a trip to one of our favorite places On our way home we stopped by Colonial Williamsburg for lunch at Kings Arms Tavern. Delicious! We were even able to catch a tune from the Fife and Drum on our way to lunch. A great ending to a wonderful trip!

Family Vacation - Part Two

2011-07-03T20:41:00.052-04:00

Virginia Beach was about an hour away from where we were staying in Williamsburg. With it being so close we had to take a quick trip out to play in the sand, splash in the ocean and enjoy dinner overlooking one of the Lord's amazing works. Judah was thrilled at the chance to go back to the beach and Elisha was not really sure what he thought of the ocean but he thought the sand was great (if only he knew that it was not for eating!). The evening was just perfect the weather could not have been more pleasant.

The only downside was that while Judah and Nathan were playing at the edge of the water in the sand the ocean swallowed up Mater...we thought that Judah would be distraught but he handled it much better than we thought. Now Mater the Tow Truck is swimming with the fish!

What a beautiful and powerful thing the ocean is...we truly serve a mighty God. I do not

think that I will ever lose my awe for this wondrous creation...breath-taking.

Special Thanks to my dear friend Kristi...she sent the boys the great swim/beach wear. We got them just a few weeks before we went on vacation - she did not even know we were going.

Thank you so much Kristi...don't the boys look so cute!

Family Vacation - Part One

2011-07-02T15:02:00.001-04:00

We took a few days to get out of the city and away from everyday stuff to spend some time enjoying each other. We almost skipped out of on vacation this year but I am really glad that we didn't. It was such a fun time and even though Nathan and I did not do a lot of resting and relaxing we did spend the time making great memories and enjoying our family.

We stayed at a place in Williamsburg, VA called the Great Wolf Lodge that was just perfect. The Lodge actually is a hotel (very comfortable and spacious) with an indoor water park - there were other things to do but we spent our time in the water both inside at the water park and outside at the pool (and a little trip to the spa...thanks Nathan!). It was great to have it all right there...nap time was not missed and we did not feel like we had to give up a minute of play time either.

Theology in the Park

2011-06-30T14:31:00.000-04:00

How cool is it that we live in a country where we can openly study the Word of God?! Restoration Church does not have a traditional Sunday School program but we have what is called Theology in the Park. This is where we get together and enjoy hanging out, having dinner and studying God's Word. If that was not cool enough we add a whole other coolness factor...this all happens on the National Mall right in the middle of DC! There are so many underground churches in the world where believers have to hide and secretly meet - the freedom and opportunity we have to gather is humbling and gift to be thankful for.

This particular Saturday was really fun because my dear friend Stephanie and her family were in the city doing some sight-seeing and were able to stop by to say hello! The Lyon family prays and supports us in so many ways it was neat that she was able to see another aspect of how the Lord is working in DC. Not to mention I was just thankful to have the opportunity to hug her neck! Oh how I miss that girl! (I was so happy to see her I did not even grab my camera for a quick picture.)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T21:09:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T09:07:00.000-04:00

Happy First Day of Summer!

2011-06-21T10:25:00.000-04:00

Sometime this afternoon we will begin the summer season.

Today will be the longest day of 2011.

This will be our third summer in DC.

This is Elisha's first summer and we only have two summers left before Judah will start school.

Summer.

Full of parks, picnics, bubble blowing, walks, jumping in puddles after an afternoon thunderstorm, longs days, warmth (sometimes too much), sandboxes, visits from friends, trips to the pool, farmers markets...

Enjoying laughter, playing and the goodness of the Lord.

Summer.

When I was a kid the summers seemed to last forever as a mom they seem to pass to quickly. I am thankful for summer...I am thankful for memories made and the memories waiting to be made.

Happy Summer!

6 Months!

2011-06-20T09:57:00.001-04:00

It seems that Elisha is growing up faster than Judah did...it seems that every time I blink we are hitting a new milestone or going for another wellness check which indicates that he is getting older. Elisha is now eating food, trying to crawl and pull up, playing with toys, trying to play with Judah (he laughs and encourages Judah in whatever craziness he is involved in) and still not sleeping through the night. Yep! You read that right still not sleeping through the night which is exactly opposite of his big brother who slept through the night very early on. Even though it drives me crazy it is ok because at the end of the day I know that these days will be over before I am ready and there is something special about the snuggles while the rest of the family is sleeping...just me and Elisha. Even though I would like for him to sleep a little longer I am so thankful that he is a healthy, happy and content baby - a true blessing to our family. Lord teach my heart to treasure these fleeting moments!

Elisha is 26 inches tall and 17lbs and 4 oz (June 7th).

Cooking!

2011-06-16T21:29:00.000-04:00

Now that Judah is three he has had the opportunity to participate in some new things. It is incredible to watch him learn and grow in new environments. There are moments that I know are a little overwhelming for him but he has learned to try his best. He will often tell me, "Mommy, I am going to try my best are you doing your best?". I love his excitement to try new things - who knows where his interests will eventually rest and what he will want to do as he grows up but for now we are just trying our best and checking things out.

One of the great opportunities we have had is a kids cooking class. Judah has always been interested in "helping" in the kitchen and I hardly ever fix a meal or a snack without his presence in the kitchen. I had been looking for a class for kids but could not find anything that really worked. Well, leave it to God - Tessy and Mitch moved to DC not long ago to start a cooking school - the Lord lead them to Restoration Church - now we have an amazing cooking class to attend...Judah is still a little younger than the other kids but Tessy always calls us if she needs an extra kid in the class - we are extremely thankful. Judah adores going to Ms. Tessy's classes and so do I.

The kids have a hand in making everything on their plates - lots of yummy foods. When things are in the oven and the kids have washed their hands the have a special table set where the kids and mommies get to enjoy all of the hard work.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T09:42:00.000-04:00

Practice...Soccer Practice

2011-06-10T10:12:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that Judah is old enough to "play" soccer. Even though practice looks a lot like really crazy chaos - watching him run around with the other kids makes him look so big and grown up. Of course there are moments that make me smile because after all he is three and laying in the grass, picking a flower for mommy or even just watching everyone else run around is just more fun than actually practicing. We have been so proud of him...this is something new for him not to mention that this class is for 3-5 year olds which makes him the youngest out there. Judah is very coordinated and is really doing a great job (even Coach Joseph says so!). We might actually have a soccer player on our hands!

On a side note...Elisha is a very proud little brother who absolutely ADORES his big brother. I love the way that each of the boys love each other like they do - Judah the protective big brother who wants Elisha to be proud of him and Elisha the little brother who is already showing signs of wanting to be just like Judah.

Oh I pray that they will always be thankful and know how blessed they are to have each other!

Praise the Lord for little boys :)

Watch Out Here I Come!

2011-06-09T21:55:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-25T20:45:00.001-04:00

Haiti (May 12th -18th)

2011-05-23T20:45:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday!

2011-05-23T08:53:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Rayon!

2011-05-19T09:46:00.001-04:00

Rayon and Judah share their loves of Cars the movie. Judah thought it was super fun that Rayon had his birthday party outside and that the theme was Cars. Those boys just can't get enough of Lighting McQueen! Happy Birthday Rayon!

Thomas The Train!

2011-05-01T11:14:00.004-04:00

We were trying to find something really special for Judah's 3rd birthday. We were racking our brains trying to find just the right thing when Nathan found it...A Day Out With Thomas. Judah has always loved cars and trucks but trains are pretty high on his list - especially Thomas. What better way to celebrate turning three than to take a ride on Thomas! So that is what we did - the Baltimore Train Museum was full of fun and excitement. Even though the weather was not the greatest we had a great time celebrating Judah's life and making a sweet memory together.

Happy Birthday Judah!

We love you very much and are so thankful that you are our little boy - we can not wait to see what the Lord is going to do with your life...He has already used you to bless ours.

Three Years Old

2011-04-28T09:15:00.000-04:00

37 inches + 28.5 pounds = 1 wonderful three year old

Judah loves cars, trucks, trains...anything with wheels.

He will spend hours putting together puzzles, coloring, play dough and painting.

Everyday his imagination grows and he enjoys playing pretend a little more.

Outside is still his favorite place to be.

He is a creature of habit and likes to have order to his day but

he can't get enough of surprises and special trips.

He copies his daddy and wants to be just like him because "daddy is awesome".

He is his little brothers protector and teacher and can hardly wait for Elisha to get big enough to play.

Even though he is more "big boy" and gets bigger everyday he still has time to snuggle with mom at the end of the day...with his "night night" and cartoons (curious george is still the favorite!).

Happy 3rd Birthday Judah!

2011-04-22T10:04:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday - One Way To Save Money!

2011-04-13T06:23:00.000-04:00

Ringling Brothers

2011-03-26T21:21:00.001-04:00

I love the circus! I am not sure why I love it but I do. When I found out it was coming to DC I of course wanted Judah to go. Nathan usually gets to take Judah on "special trips" but this time it was a Mommy and Judah date and Elisha got to stay home with Dad.
Judah was in awe from the moment we walked in the Civic Center. We got our cotton candy and headed to our seats just in time for the show to begin. Judah could barely hold his seat down but sat as close to the edge as he could while he watched all of the acts with wide eyes (not sure if it was the show or the bag of cotton candy!). It was great to watch my oldest enjoy the circus for the first time!

Truck Touch

2011-03-24T14:00:00.000-04:00

Laurie a friend of ours from church works at a preschool that was hosting a "Truck Touch" and she invited us to bring the kids and join in on the fun. Page and I thought that it was a great idea for a fun and different activity...not to mention a great way to celebrate my birthday. (You know you are a mommy when your birthday activities of choice is a Truck Touch and trip to the park.)

We were not sure what to expect since we had never been to a Truck Touch...a bunch of big trucks in a parking lot! That was exactly what it was - trucks in a parking lot that the kids could touch and climb on. Really cool. I was kind of surprised at how timid Judah was at the beginning. I guess he did not realize that trucks were as big as they really are. Even though he was a little overwhelmed he had a great time checking out all of the trucks...especially how big the wheels were! I hope we get the opportunity to go next year.

Wordless Wednesday - Everyday Afternoon Fun

2011-03-23T06:29:00.001-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-16T06:40:00.001-04:00

A Treasured Memory

2011-03-15T06:08:00.004-04:00

I was going through some drawers today and ran across a very special book. When I saw it tucked away in the drawer a smile came across my face and I felt like I had just been hugged. The book is old, the pages smudged with little fingerprints, the corners worn, the inside cover has my name written over and over depending on what I wanted to go by at the time (Andi or Andria) in little kid print. I don't keep a lot of things but this little book is different. This book makes me think of my mom and reminds me that I am deeply loved. Tomorrow I will read it to MY children...it probably will not be the book that makes them think of me but I pray that they will ALWAYS know how much their mommy loves them (even when they are all grown up!).

If I Found A Wistful Unicorn

by Ann Ashford

If I found a wistful unicorn and brought him to you all forlorn...

would you pet him?

If I took an empty midnight train across the country in the rain...

would you meet me?

If I picked a little flower up and put it in a paper cup...

would you smell it?

If I found a secret place to go, with you the only one to know...

would you be there?

If my cricket coughed and got the flu and needed warmth and comfort too...

would you hold him?

If my rainbow were to turn all gray and wouldn't shine at all today...

would you paint it?

If my birch tree were afraid at night and couldn't sleep without a light...

would you bring one?

If my soul were feeling all alone and wasn't near a telephone...

would you write to it?

If my clock developed a nervous strain and needed help to "tock" again...

would you fix it?

If I ran backwards up a tree and called for you to follow me...

would you do it?

If my turtle got a nervous tick and could swim cause he was sick...

would you sit with him?

If my obelisk came tumbling down and fell in pieces on the ground...

would you pick it up?

If my nightingale were monotone and much to shy to sing alone...

would you hum with him?

If all that I would want to do would be to sit and talk to you...

would you listen?

If any of these things you'll do, I'll never have to say to you...

do you love me?

Party Party Party!

2011-03-14T07:32:00.001-04:00

The past few weeks we have been birthday party crazy! Maybe not super crazy but there have been a lot of celebrations. Of course there was Sayde's Princess Tea Party but there were also two other birthdays that we recently celebrated. Selah's 1st Birthday Disco Party and Annelise's February Swim Party! With all of this partying Judah has been asking how long until his birthday gets here and if we can have cupcakes. (You have to wait a little bit longer kiddo but I promise we will have cupcakes!)

Selah's Disco Party

While the big kids waited for cupcakes and dance music Elisha just hung out

and watched all of the fun waiting patiently to be a big kid.

Annelise's Swim Party

Judah is doing his "cheese face" but it looks a little more like an "ewew" face.

The indoor pool made the winter blues disappear for a little while...summer will be here soon!

Sayde's GiGi (Joey's mom) was here for a visit so Elisha enjoyed a little snuggle time while the

big kids swam and played. (Thanks GiGi for loving on my boys!)

Happy Birthday! We had a great time celebrating with all of you!

Thankful Thursday - All Cleared!

2011-03-10T21:08:00.003-05:00

Praise the Lord with us! On Tuesday, we took our monthly trip to the hematologist - Elisha's platelets were at 468,000. That was fantastic news since the last time we were at the clinic his platelets were on the high side and we wanted them to come back down and start to stabilize. My heart was rejoicing when Dr. Abugosh told me that his numbers were great but...then she told me something even better. She was confident that all of the IVIG treatment was gone and that there had been enough time since Elisha's last visit to establish that his platelets had in fact stabilized which meant - WE ARE CLEARED and that there is no need for further monitoring. PRAISE PRAISE PRAISE THE LORD!

Once again we are deeply thankful for the careful and consistent monitoring by very skilled and wonderful doctors and nurses. We are eternally grateful for our Lord God who held our sweet Elisha in HIS hands during this whole process - orchestrating EVERY detail with perfection and grace. Our faith has once again been stretched and we are humbled at the intense grace, love and attention of God the Great Physician.

Elisha Giles Knight...always remember that mommy and daddy love you so much but that God loves you WAY more. We are grateful for your life and that you have been given to us - we can not wait to see the glory that your life will bring to the Lord.

Wordless Wednesday - Learning and Teaching

2011-03-09T13:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Sayde!

2011-03-07T10:13:00.000-05:00

Sayde (Judah's best friend) just had a princess birthday party to celebrate her 2nd birthday. Judah was excited to go to Sayde's party but not interested in being a princess (good thing!) so he went as a "knight in shining armor". Page had all of the princess details...peanut butter and jelly pretzel princess wands, pink cupcakes, bubbles, and even dump trucks for the boys party favors. It was a great party!

We are so thankful for Sayde and were happy to celebrate her sweet life!

Of course Elisha just took it all in until he decided with all the fun he would rather just take a nap!

Family Trip - Rose Hill

2011-03-03T12:23:00.000-05:00

At the end of October we took a family trip while we were waiting on Elisha to make his appearance. Nathan rented an old house in Lexington, VA about 3 hours from here and we spent 3 restful days enjoying our family of 3 while we waited on Elisha. Nathan has some of the pictures playing as his screen saver and when I saw it I realized that I never put them on the blog. I am so thankful for this time - we all talk of how much fun we had at what Judah calls the "cow house".

Gatlinburg, TN

2011-02-28T20:51:00.001-05:00

Nathan's extended family tries to have a family retreat every year. It is a fun time - full of food, laughter, catching up and of course a little bit of craziness! This year everyone met in Gatlinburg, TN. We were very thankful that we were able to join them...it was the first opportunity for them to meet Elisha. The trip was a long one but the boys were fantastic and the time with family was well worth the hours in the car. (A side note...on the way out there we broke the trip up and spent the night a few hours from Gatlinburg, but we probably could have made it all the way - Judah literally colored every single page in a coloring book the whole ride with no whining!)

I was not great with the camera...I was too busy living in the moment! Here are a few to document.

Happy 3 Month Birthday!

2011-02-25T09:53:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday - Puzzle Time

2011-02-23T21:45:00.002-05:00

Cabin Fever = Chuckie Cheese?

2011-02-21T10:02:00.001-05:00

We are still trying to adjust to apartment living and cold weather. I guess the apartment living is not really a big deal because with the cold weather that we have had this winter we would not be playing outside even if we had a backyard. Being a southern girl I truly dislike to be cold! Since it has been cold we have played inside our warm and cozy apartment all winter wishing for spring to come early. We have been thankful for some really nice days this past week to enjoy OUTSIDE at the park...come on spring we are waiting anxiously for you!

A couple of weeks ago we had a bad case of cabin fever. With Elisha I have been a little less adventurous than normal so having Nathan around to tag team with me opens up all sorts of new adventures. We had a coupon for Chuckie Cheese so the four of us loaded up in the big red car (what Judah calls our SaturnVue) and headed to the suburbs to Chuckie Cheese for dinner. Wow! Stimulation Overload! Even though we had a good time I think that we will wait a little while to visit Chuckie again. Thank goodness warmer weather is around the corner - even though they are predicting snow tonight. (sigh)

Wordless Wednesday - Sweet Moments

2011-02-16T06:57:00.006-05:00

Cars Cars Cars

2011-02-15T06:11:00.002-05:00

Two weeks ago a big car show came to the Washington, DC Convention Center...that meant that Nathan had to buy tickets and indulge his oldest son in an afternoon of car fun! Of course Judah was a chatter bug when he got home about all of the trucks and cars he saw. Even though the car show was two weeks ago Judah still talks about all the fun he had with his dad. I did not go with them so Nathan was a good sport and took a lot of pictures (he loves me I know!).

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T13:27:00.000-05:00

Nathan and I have never made a big deal about Valentine's Day. Well...maybe when we were dating and I have to admit that Nathan has always given me flowers every year - of course he knows that I love fresh flowers. Maybe I should say that I have never made a big deal out of Valentine's Day (sorry sweetheart!).
The fact is that Nathan does a better job at celebrating US than I do.

Now that we are a family of four I have three special valentines. Even though I love their daddy the most I found this sweet poem that is just right for my two favorite little boys today...You Are My I Love You.

I am your parent; you are my child.

I am your quiet place; you are my wild.

I am your calm face; you are my giggle.

I am your wait; you are my wiggle.

I am your carriage ride; you are my king.

I am your push; you are my swing.

I am your audience; you are my clown.

I am your London Bridge; you are my falling down.

I am your carrot sticks; you are my licorice.

I am your dandelion; you are my first wish.

I am your water wings; you are my deep.

I am your open arms; you are my running leap.

I am your way home; you are my new path.

I am your dry towel; you are my wet bath.

I am your dinner; you are my chocolate cake.

I am your bedtime; you are my wide awake.

I am your finish line; you are my race.

I am your praying hands; you are my saying grace.

I am your favorite book; you are my new lines.

I am your night-light; you are my star shine.

I am your lullaby; you are my peekaboo.

I am your goodnight; you are my I LOVE YOU.

by: Mary Ann Cusimano

(Will this "cheese" face ever go away?!)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T06:32:00.001-05:00

Come Back Next MONTH!

2011-02-08T16:13:00.000-05:00

It is Tuesday and it has been two weeks which means that Elisha and I headed back to the hematologist to have his platelets checked. Once again his platelets are up! Up to 571,000...yes that is right about 100,000 more than last time. I had to ask the question, "should we be worried about the platelets going TOO high?!". The answer was, "No, but we do still need to monitor him until his numbers stabilize. However, you don't have to come in two weeks but you can come next MONTH." Yay! We have made it to the next level and are getting closer and closer everyday to not having to go in for platelet counts.

Even though I will be extremely excited the day we are told we no longer have to go back to the clinic I do want to be thankful for today and provision of outstanding medical care. I praise the Lord for providing wonderful doctors and nurses that are being so very careful with our son and his health. Every time we go to the doctor I am overwhelmed with thankfulness that we are simply there for a platelet check. There are so many other kids in the clinic that are battling for their lives and fighting hard against cancer that is attacking their little bodies. I pray that I never take for granted the gift I have been given - the sweet gift of two healthy little boys.

Two Months Already!

2011-01-28T15:00:00.000-05:00

This week Elisha turned 2 months old - my how the time flies! Mommy falls in love more and more everyday, Daddy has another little buddy and Judah...lets just say that he can't wait for Elisha to quit crying and to be big enough to play with cars.

Being that it was the 2 month mark our little guy had 2 doctor's appointments - one with the hematologist and then his 2 month wellness check. Good reports from both!

Wellness Check = 11lbs and 15oz (45%) and 22 1/2 inches (40%)

Hematologist Check = Platelets 476,000 yep that's right 476,000! This appointment was a significant one - at the 2 month mark the effects of the IVIG (drugs he was given to raise platelets at birth) are supposed to drop dramatically allowing the doctor to see if Elisha is truly producing these platelets on his own. The results were very good but his white blood cell numbers were off a little so we will have to go back in 2 weeks to check again. We are expecting to see all numbers right where they are supposed to be so that we can be put on a once a month visit.

Thankful Thursday - More Thankful Than Words Can Express

2011-01-27T09:09:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T12:05:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!

2011-01-24T09:24:00.000-05:00

Elisha and Some of His Favorite Buddies

2011-01-21T14:30:00.001-05:00

My Big Boy

2011-01-14T14:24:00.001-05:00

Judah has been such a patient and helpful big brother. We were not sure what to expect...would he be jealous, would he have new behavior problems, would he accept all of the new changes that come with a new baby brother. I think that I knew deep down that he would do great but doing great has been an understatement. Don't get me wrong he is still a kid who is almost 3 and we definitely have our moments of temper-tantrums, disobedience, defiance, meltdowns...you know the normal 3 year old stuff...and maybe these moments are a little more dramatic and can sometimes last a little longer but overall he has been amazing.

I am thankful for the way the Lord...

has guided his heart to love his little brother as if Elisha has always been around

has granted him patience with mommy as I learn how to be a mommy to two

has filled his life with people who love, adore and spoil him

makes moments that just the two of us enjoy

has equipped Judah to be the big brother and will help him to embrace such a privilege

I am thankful to the Lord for my "big" boy who just a few months ago

still seemed little and now seems so grown up.

Brother Love

2011-01-10T13:52:00.002-05:00

Thankful Thursday - Moments That Make Me Smile

2011-01-06T13:29:00.001-05:00

It is true that life is built in all of the every day little moments not just a few big moments. Today I am thankful for those little moments. Especially the ones that come only minutes after the moments that I wish did not take place (not sharing, screaming, whining...you know all the fun stuff!). I am also thankful that sometimes I have the camera ready to capture them!

Wordless Wednesday - Our New Adventure!

2011-01-05T13:05:00.001-05:00

Thankful Thursday - Nana and Grams Come to Play!

2010-12-30T09:15:00.000-05:00

Nathan and I are so thankful to have such amazing moms! When Elisha was born they both dropped everything to come and help us out with the transition from three to four. My mom (Nana) came to keep Judah while we were in the hospital and stayed for a few days after Elisha came home and then Nathan's mom (Grams) came in for the next week - two whole weeks of being taken care of by our moms was great! Not only were they here to love on and spoil the boys (and us but we know who they really came to see!) but we were also able to celebrate Christmas with them which was a treat considering we were not able to go to Atlanta this year.

We are crazy grateful for their love, service to us and complete spoiling of our family. Words will not be enough to describe how special their time here was to us. We love you!

Wordless Wednesday - Happy Birthday Jesus Cupcakes!

2010-12-29T13:54:00.000-05:00

One Month!

2010-12-27T14:06:00.000-05:00

My how the time flies - Elisha is one month old! This week we had both his one month check up and an appointment with the hematologist.

Elisha's One Month Stats - 9lbs and 12oz (yep that is almost 3 lbs more than when he was born!) that puts him in the 50th percentile and he is a little taller than average at 21 3/4 inches and the 55th percentile. We have a healthy growing boy on our hands...I was also told by the doctor that he is very strong - already holding his head up and turning from side to side - just like his big brother at his age.

Hematologist Update - We have been checking his platelets every week and have gotten GREAT numbers each week...this week was no exception! He was at 380,000 platelets this week which has indicated that it is safe to move to bi-weekly visits. We continue to praise the Lord for His provision of fantastic doctors and that He continues to be the Great Physician in the healing of our little boy!

Celebrating with the Crafts!

2010-12-26T21:20:00.004-05:00

The Crafts...even though they are not technically family...they are. Joey's has a December birthday so we celebrated his life and the life of Christ at the same time. I am so thankful that we share the bond of Christ with this family - they truly sharpen, encourage and walk beside us in our lives. Happy Birthday Mr. Joey and Merry Christmas Craft Family!

Christmas Morning (in Pictures)

2010-12-25T13:15:00.003-05:00

Chirstmas Eve - Botanical Gardens and Old Ebbitt

2010-12-24T13:52:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T06:52:00.001-05:00

Big Brother Special Outings

2010-12-23T06:57:00.000-05:00

Over the past few weeks Judah has been able to go with Nathan on some special trips because he is the big brother. We have tried to make this time special for him and to make the transition from being the only child to being a brother a fun time. Judah has been amazing through it all - that is not to say that we have not had our moments. For the most part Judah accepted the fact that Elisha is a part of our family as if he has always been around...I am very thankful that I prayers were answered and that Judah is a great big brother (we are praying that it continues!).

Update!

2010-12-22T14:51:00.000-05:00

I am WAY overdue to update on Elisha's hematology appointment last week - actually he has already had TWO! Life with 2 kiddos definitely changes the daily routine around this place (smile).

Last Tuesday Nathan and I took Elisha to have a consultation with Dr. Augubosh at Georgetown University in the Lombardi Children's Oncology and Hematology Clinic. It was a long day (much longer than we expected - many thanks to Page and Sayde for letting Judah hang out with them!). We were able to ask questions and Dr. Augubosh helped us to understand more clearly the reason for Elisha's condition and the process on making sure that he is completely fine. We thought that we would be cleared last Tuesday but we still have a few more weeks before that will happen. However, even though Elisha will have to be monitored for a little longer both last week and this week showed great numbers in regards to his platelets and his overall growth and health. In fact he has gained 2 pounds since he was born 3 1/2 weeks ago - his big brother better watch out! We were also cleared to have his circumcision yesterday which was a huge check on the list of things that we wanted to be taken care of as soon as possible. We are so grateful to the amazing care that the Lord has provided for Elisha during this time - his little body continues to heal and he continues to be a great joy to our family.

Wordless Wednesday - Judah's Very Own Christmas Tree

2010-12-15T17:02:00.000-05:00

Our THANKSGIVING Story

2010-12-12T16:40:00.000-05:00

Oh give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; Speak of all His wonders. Psalm 105:1-2

Thanksgiving is a day that will never be forgotten in this home and it is a day that will never be looked at the same as before. Praise the Lord for the arrival of Elisha Giles Knight - 6lbs 15oz and 19 1/4 inches!

On Wednesday, November 24th, I went in for my 38 week check up where Dr. Engle told me that there was not much change and that I should not expect to have a baby before my due date - December 9th. He actually went ahead and scheduled my induction date for December 22nd so that the beds at the hospital would not be full and we could be home for Christmas. With the news from the appointment I went home planning to do a little Christmas shopping and Thanksgiving food prepping that afternoon. Around 7:00pm I started to have some pretty strong contractions but thought that I had just over done it and that a little snuggle time with Judah while we watched Curious George was just what would stop them. Nope...they just kept getting stronger and closer together. Still I did not say anything to Nathan because after all the doctor told me that it would be December for sure! I got ready for bed and decided it was time to tell Nathan to be prepared...we just might be going to the hospital. Even though I tried to make it through the night so that everyone could get just a little more sleep I could hold out no longer and at 3:30ish am we were on our way to the hospital (thanks to the Crafts for taking care of Judah until Nana could get here!).

We were admitted to the hospital about 4:00am and was around 3cm...I held out as long as I thought that I could and got an epidural at 4cm. At around 8:00am Dr. Engle (yep same doctor who told me I would not have a baby until December) came into check on our progress and to tell me that he was going off duty but that Dr. Osmun (my favorite!) was coming on duty and would deliver me. At this point I was at 6cm and the epidural was QUICKLY wearing off. Dr. Engle told us that it would be around noon when Elisha would start to make his appearance. Well, around 8:20 am my water broke - the contractions came with a new intensity - Nathan prayed - my epidural was completely worn off. Let's just say the next 31 minutes were completely worth it but physically the toughest minutes of my life. Elisha Giles proved the doctor wrong AGAIN and was born at 8:51am. Happy Thanksgiving!

Many of you rejoiced with us at the news of the arrival of our second son and then you also prayed for us with great intensity (we are beyond thankful for all of the prayers lifted on our behalf around the world - yes the world!) when we were told that everything was not quite right. Elisha was born with Thrombocytopenia which means that his platelets in his blood were low...his were VERY low. Platelets are considered low at 100,000 and Elisha had 17,000. The Lord was so good...the Neonatologist was present at the delivery because there was meconium in my water (pretty common) and noticed little spots on Elisha's body when they were giving him a bath (petechiae). This signaled her that there was something wrong with his blood. Praise the Lord that she was there and that she was paying attention! Since his platelets were SO low she wanted to do another test from closer to his heart - the platelets dropped to 15,000. So at around 3:00 pm Elisha was taken to the New Born ICU to be monitored and given a drug to help increase his platelets (IVIG). There are many details about the drugs and the condition that would take too long to explain but let me say once again our God is so good and gracious - during this overwhelming day all my heart could think of was "Be still and KNOW that I am God." Nathan and I prayed and waited. Elisha's little body handled the drugs well and the next morning the platelets were up to 42,000 still low but better. He had another dose of the IVIG the next night and once again we waited and prayed. He was up to 79,000! The next two days we prayed, waited, visited the NICU, went home and left our sweet son at the hospital in care of excellent nurses and doctors, and watched his platelets increase to 132,000 and then by Monday morning 225,000! On Monday we took our little boy home...5 days old and already such a strong fighter and a powerful story to tell of God's sweet grace and mercy in his life.

So see...our Thanksgiving will take on and even more thankful meaning from this Thanksgiving forward. Even now I am not sure that I can express the full extent of my extreme gratitude to the Lord for granting life to Elisha. There are so many things that could have gone wrong but the Lord was one step ahead working EVERY detail out for this sweet outcome. We give all glory and honor and praise to Whom it is due...the Lord. We watched Him guide skilled doctors hands, bring people to their knees in prayer for our family, guard our minds and our hearts in Christ Jesus, use technology and medicine to make our son healthy,work on His perfect timetable and not ours, to grow our faith, and to open opportunities to share the Him and the gospel with those we came in contact with.

Thank you for praying...we ask that you continue to pray for our "clearance" appointment with the hematologist this week. We have been given every reason to believe that this appointment will go fine and that Elisha will be considered completely healthy and with no lasting complications!

Wordless Wednesday - Brothers

2010-12-08T04:50:00.000-05:00

A Glimpse...

2010-12-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

Elisha Is Here!

2010-11-25T14:22:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday - Fall Leaves

2010-11-17T12:23:00.000-05:00

Friday Funny - The Magic of a Bandaid

2010-11-12T09:22:00.000-05:00

I am not sure where Judah got the idea that band aids fixed any boo-boo (real or imagined) but they do. It is just like magic...whatever is an ouchie is fixed simply by putting a band aid on it. Even though it took a while for me to catch on we have finally had to limit the number of band aids we can have each day considering that 99% are not needed.

With that explained...a few weeks ago Judah did something that he has NEVER done before. He put a button up his nose. Yep that is right - up his nose. Praise the Lord that everyone stayed calm as we tried to figure out that he indeed did have a button up his nose. Nathan came to the rescue and some how figured out how to get Judah to BLOW his nose and get the button out. Wow! Well, needless to say that Judah "needed" a band aid after that ordeal because his nose was an ouchie.

Life with a little boy - what more can I say!

Wordless Wednesday - Big Boy Bed!

2010-11-10T08:46:00.000-05:00

A Friday Favorite!

2010-11-05T18:36:00.002-04:00

I absolutely adore this picture of my little boy and me. I will be completely honest and say that being Judah's mommy is one of my most favorite things in my whole entire life.

Blessing Undeserved.

Thankful Thursday!

2010-11-04T18:35:00.000-04:00

Linda and Ernie Baker (Blog - Walking with Big EZ) do this great thing called Thankful Thursdays on their blog. I think that it is a fabulous idea so I am completely copying and going to have some very Thankful Thursdays of my own. After all there is SO very much to be thankful for!

Linda is a very dear friend of mine from Wake Forest - we worked together at SEBTS and she became much more than an office mate but a sweet and special friend. Because I got the idea from her blog I thought that I would share how thankful I am for friends in Wake Forest - sweet sister friends!

A few weeks ago Stephanie and Brandi spoiled me and my little man Elisha by throwing a baby shower for some of the "needs" we will have once he gets here. Nathan and Judah spent some boy time and I headed by myself to Wake Forest for a very fast but very special time. On Friday I had dinner with Debbie, Kim and Linda at the Olive Garden where they loved on me and spoiled me. How I miss these ladies - God richly blessed me with the three of them! Then on Saturday was the shower where some of the most precious ladies I know generously loved on Elisha and me. I am so thankful for every thing but I am most thankful for the way that these ladies prayed for us. The most precious gift - to which the Lord has already answered prayer (the room will be private!). I love the words of wisdom and encouragement that they shared and just being with them made my heart joyful and my cup overflow.

There of course are Wake Forest friends who are no longer in Wake Forest and those who I was not able to see...I am grateful for each one of you too! You are my sister friends :) and I thank our dear Jesus for each of you!

I love you my sweet and dear friends!! I am FOREVER grateful for the gift of your friendship. So today on my Thankful Thursday - YOU are what I am thankful for.

Wordless Wednesday - Best Buddies

2010-11-03T09:33:00.000-04:00