Pirates and Lions

**** Was unable to upload a pic of my little pirate Andrew... blogger is being a STINKER today... will try tomorrow!!
We spent the last couple of days at my sister's home in our state's beautiful capital city (and where I lived as a single girl)! I had to sing at this event, and we took the kids to a neighborhood party last night, and they all went "trick or treating" as a group and rode in little wagons. It was the cutest thing ever. Our little lion fell asleep in the stroller, but our pirate was going strong until about 10 p.m. last night!! We had a great time and a wonderful visit. So, for your viewing pleasure, here are our 2 cuties all dressed up!
Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Festival Fun

We attended a Fall Festival today at my Grandparent's church, and the children had a blast! Andrew even won a cake at the cakewalk (he chose the cupcakes, of course), decorated a pumpkin and jumped on the spacewalk. Little Miss Priss was content to view most of the action from mama's lap (and hip) until she spied a lollipop... then it was over. I got to eat a good, fresh off the grill burger, catch up with old friends, eat boiled peanuts (one of my absolute FAV foods ever) and see someone get "pie in the face". It was a beautiful afternoon!
Happy Monday and
Much Love,

I couldn't resist...

.... these precious little matching brother/sister outfits
(Especially since they were on a 50% off sale!!!).
It's been a bit chilly here- we've even had the heat on at night! Perfect weather for this music, don't you think?
Happy Sunday and
Much Love,

Mama said...

Mama said there would be days like this. And now I believe her.

It started out with a bang when my potty trained 3 yr. old had an accident in his pants. NOT the good kind. He has not had an accident like this since he was potty trained. He must've been a little embarassed, because by the time I found the poor little fella he had tried to clean himself up with baby sister's baby wipes.... and it was not NOT pretty. No siree. AND there was a certain material tracked all over the carpet from his little feet. Sigh. By the time I got the whole mess cleaned up, baby sister was missing. I found her in my bathroom in the middle of all of my makeup. I found all of my brushes/combs/hair products in the bathtub. I found all of the toilet paper that was on the roll- you guessed it- on the floor. Another sigh. After conquering yet another mess, I realized we were late to meet my friend A. for lunch. We race out the door, meet A., and I realize I have forgotten the diaper bag. Lovely. Lunch was surprisingly uneventful except for Andrew getting a huge scratch on his chin from "wrestling" with another little boy on the playground. Tears quickly abated, however, with the arrival of an ice cream cone. Crisis avoided.

We proceeded on to the grocery store after lunch, and I realize that Miss Anna Kate is soaking wet. Yep, the diaper has leaked and now my arm smells like baby teetee (remember the diaper bag that got left at home... yeah.) I soldier on into the store because I must. My friend P. and I had volunteered to take a meal to a church member, and I was missing a key ingredient for my recipe. We secured the goods (along with some more diapers) and headed to the parking lot. I look down and realize one of baby girls BRAND NEW little mary janes is gone. At this point I want to sit in the car with my head on the steering wheel and cry. CRY, I tell you. And then it starts raining. Hard. I say a quick "help me please, Father" prayer, and one of the bag boys from the store comes rushing up to me, little shoe in hand. "Ma'am, I think you dropped this".
Let's just say I gave him a biggest tip he probably got all day.
Very grateful, I was.

Home again and time to start up the ol'stove. I had the church member's meal to cook, and ours, so I got busy. The kids napped peacefully, I played my favorite Christmas CD and lit a candle.
After getting dinner out of the oven I realized I was out of foil to cover the casserole with. Thank goodness for sweet neighbors.

While on the way to drop the meal off, I had a nagging feeling I had forgotten something. I couldn't quite put my finger on it though. I pondered it for a while, then forgot it, then realized after I got back home that I had forgotten to, ummm, you know pay bills. Mind you, this is NOT something I ordinarily do, so it is not part of my routine. Since Andy is gone, however, it is obviously necessary that I do it. I frantically got them out and paid them, got caught up, etc. And finished them at, yeah, about 11 pm. At this point, my kitchen is still a mess, laundry is calling my name, and I still have a to do list that is undone. The kitchen does get cleaned, I make a dent in the laundry.... but the to-do list? Well, it didn't quite get done.

But you know what? This is my life, and I love it. The good days, the bad days, the hard days, the sad days, the happy days, and the "where is my mind" days.
This is the life I wanted. The life I prayed for. It's all part of being a wife, a mommy, and a child of God. And as much as I wish my husband was right here right now with me, I have a tremendous responsibility to fulfill while he is gone. He has entrusted our life, our children, our future to me. And I don't intend to let him down. So I'll keep on keeping on knowing the Savior who holds my hand will never leave me or forsake me. He is beside me in every step. It is He who is putting the "steel" behind my being a steel magnolia. I am trying to learn to be content whatever my circumstances.... a hard lesson? You'd better believe it is. But I am so thankful to be learning it.

Yes, Mama said there would be days like this.

Blessed be your name when the sun's shining down on me,
When the world' s all as it should be,
Blessed be your name.

Blessed be your name on the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering,
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out I'll
Turn back to praise
And when the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord,
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord,
Blessed be your glorious name.

(Matt and Beth Redman)

Happy Friday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Refrigerator Meme

Soooo.... I was tagged for this fun little meme by Mrs. Blythe... The Refrigerator meme!! You must take a picture of your 'fridge in "all its glory".. and NO tampering before the pic! I obeyed the rules and snapped a photo.
And here you see....
1. Photos of family and friends (do you see your girls, "Aunt Gigi"???)
2. Clipped together art of Andrew's. Yesterday he drew 10 (YES 10!!!!) pictures with marker and paper and wanted them ALL on the fridge.... along with his craft project from Monday. So to accomodate my little man, I placed them all in the magnetic clippie, and we are going to rotate the one on top. Except now he is being quite industrious and working on, oh, about 16 more pictures today. My little budding artist.
3. When I was single, and even after marrying (before our kiddos came along) I used to be OBSESSIVE about only having 3-4 pictures at a time on my fridge, and they all had to be in matching magnetic frames. And then the kids came along, and well, you know...
My, how things have changed.

I tag ALL of you that are reading to do this!!!! Seriously. AND if you DO decide to do this, leave me a comment so I can visit and check yours out. And remember, no "tidying up"!

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Made Me Glad

This has been the song of my heart of late. The music that goes with it is beautiful, but the words speak to me in so many ways these days. He truly has made me glad, lifted me out of the pit, and set my feet upon a rock. To Him be the praise forever.


"Made Me Glad" words and music by Miriam Webster

I will bless the Lord forever
I will trust him at all times
He has delivered me from all fear
He has set my feet upon a rock
I will not be moved
and I'll say of the Lord

You are my shield, my strength
my portion, deliverer
my shelter, strong tower
my very present help in time of need

Whom have I in heaven but you
There's none I desire besides you
You have made me glad and
I'll say of the Lord

You are my shield, my strength
my portion, deliverer,
my shelter, strong tower
my very present help in time of need

My very present help in time of need

Happy Monday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

McHottie

Just call him McHottie... the media darling of the skies. Yes, that's right folks, I'm married to a real-life celebrity. Before he left on deployment, he was interviewed and featured on our local news, had a big photograph in the regional paper and now THIS. Yes, at his training site the local photographer (a female, no less) was apparently quite *ahem* taken with him and featured him and this picture in the paper there at the place where they were training. All of this, of course, has gotten him quite a bit of good natured ribbing from the fellas. AND from me. AND this is all QUITE funny, because those of you that know Andy know that he is one that shies away from the limelight. He never seeks to be the center of attention and now he is. Poor guy. I think he's quite embarassed by all the hoopla. That's one of the many reasons I love him. However, I did want to share with you the picture that earned him the moniker of "McHottie". I have to say that I'm proud!
(and of course that I love you and miss you more than anything.... I KNOW you're reading this!!!!)
Have a great weekend, y'all.
Happy Saturday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Conversations

Conversations with a 3 year old are always interesting. Almost without fail. For example the following dialouge took place before naptime a little while ago. Scene: Andrew's bedroom
Mom: You have to take your nap now... no more talking... it is rest time.
Andrew: But mommy there is something bery important that is just making my eyes hurt
Mommy: WHAT?!!!
A: *Big Sigh* Why do giraffes and zebras and elephants and lions and tigers not have any arms? It makes them bery, bery sad. They need arms to hug and they don't have them.
M: Well, that's just the way God made them, and animals don't need to hug.
A: Yes they do because their mommies won't know how much they wuv them if they can't hug
M: Their mommies know they love them in other ways.
A: But why?
M: Mommy doesn't know why sweetheart, we'll just have to ask God one day
A: But I need to ask him now so you need to leave so I can pray to God about it.
M: Okay
A: But I need to hug you BIG with my arms wight now so you won't be sad.
A: Makes loud noises while hugging mommy
A: Mommy I wuv you and I am bery glad you are not a zebra.
M: Me too, sweetheart, me too.

Happy Thursday and
Much Love,

Evolution - A Dove Film

A new film from Dove shows how the "effortless" beauty we see on billboards is actually created. Unbelievable.... no wonder they look so "perfect". Our society is so obsessed with beauty and perfection- this is worth watching. ....The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 (NKJV)

Peach State

After a quick jaunt (actually a 6 hr. road trip!!) up the road to the peach state (GA in case you didn't know), we are finally home again! We took in restaurants, a movie, local landmarks and even a state fair. A great time. And may I please suggest that you go see the movie Facing the Giants... Soon. As in now. As in get a babysitter to watch your littles or even take them (my 3 yr. old sat through the entire thing without so much as a peep). It will inspire you, give you a "faith-lift" and even make you cry. I am so thankful for Christians willing to take a stand for their beliefs and make a movie like this.... especially in times like these.
Happy Monday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Say What?

I was very much bothered by an article I recently read in this
parenting magazine (following is an excerpt.) Is this really what most American men think about their wives? Is this "role reversal" in marriages becoming the societal norm? I find it incredibly sad and so far from the biblical roles of husband and wife. What do you think?

Interviewer: I guess your wife wears the pants in the family?
Husband: Here's how I view our relationship: I'm like a middle manager. I run the household budget and take care of the little things a boss might not notice. While I have the illusion of power, C. (his wife) has the clout to veto what R. (their son) wears, how little C. (their daughter) does her hair, where we go on vacation, and, to be honest, just about everything else. None of this, by the way, has anything to do with the fact that she brings home a paycheck. My wife simply calls the shots- just like yours probably does.

To this I would love to reply to Mr. Interviewer and the general American public that this is NOT the norm in every household. Especially not in mine. I am very comfortable with my role in our home as "Secretary of State" to the "President" who is my husband. It is HE who has the power to do the "vetoing" around here. What about in your home?
Ephesians 5:22-24

Happy Thursday and
Much Love,

Pumpkin Gospel

This is MY kind of "Halloween" Story....

Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff-- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside you to shine for all the world to see. Happy Fall!
Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Pumpkins and surprises

What a unbelievable weekend!! Andy got to come home from his training site (en route to another one) for a visit. Woo hoo!! After picking him up at the airport Friday night (or should I say Sat. MORNING since it was about 1230 a.m.- yikes) we had a fabulous day Saturday! We visited the pumpkin patch, ate wonderful fresh seafood (One of the things I loooove about our Gulf Coast) and Andrew got to "dress up" like Daddy (thanks to daddy bringing home a mini Army PT uniform!). He left again today. The time was too short, but so very much enjoyed. My heart was more than full yesterday while watching my beautiful children chase their daddy in the autumn sunlight. We are blessed, and I thank our wonderful Lord for this weekend. Thank you, thank you, for unexpected gifts. Here are some photos of our adventures.
Happy Monday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Verses Chart

Recently, I decided it was time for little Mr. Andrew to start learning scripture (He recently turned 3). After all, he could quote most of his favorite books, videos and songs to me!! Soooo, we made a bible verse chart. He learns a new scripture every week, and when he can quote it back to me he gets a "star sticker" for the day. He is also required to quote the previous week's verses as well. AND... know what? He Loooooves it! Every 2 weeks, he gets to pick out a "prize" (last week it was a play sword from the dollar store) if he can say all of his verses. We do most all memorization out of the KJV- (I think we've done one from the NIV), but the KJV with its natural cadence and flow is the absolute best for memorization, in my opinion. Are there other ways or techniques that you use to "hide the word" in your children's hearts... songs, rhymes, etc?? If there are, please share!
Happy FRIDAY and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Projects Galore!

So, here are the things I have been/will be working on soon! I think I may have more than enough to keep me busy for a little while, don't you think?

"Bumblebee" Jumper I just finished for miss Anna Kate. It is the VERY first children's clothing item I have made- YAY!

"Little Red Wagons" I am smocking for Andrew

Stocking Kits I will be making for the children's Christmas stockings this year

PJs I am making for Andrew... Is the "bug" material not just the cutest thing ever? (It's flannel!)

So, what do you think.. tips, advice??? Hopefully soon, I'll be showing y'all some "finished projects" !!
Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Thank You

Thanks to everyone for your support, prayers and encouraging words. They truly do mean more than you will ever know! I have been blessed with an overwhelming peace, and I know who holds my hand each step of the way. I am so thankful for my amazing family and for our wonderful church family.... I already have a VERY full calendar for the days and weeks to come! We are off to get ready for storytime at the bookstore this morning, but I have LOTS of exciting new projects to share very soon!
Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Godspeed

Andy and Kiddos at send-off ceremony

.....We dropped Andy off this morning. We had an absolutely wonderful (WHIRLWIND!) week, and I am looking forward to some much needed REST this weekend. I am doing okay, I suppose- alot better than I was earlier this morning. I know that I have to be strong (even though I DON'T feel like it!), and that there are lots of other women and families going through this with me! Frankly, I am quite glad that that the "deployment clock" started ticking away this morning. Every day is one day closer to him being home! I am so thankful to have all of my family so close, and will have lots of company! Here are some pics from this week's adventures...
Happy Saturday and
Much Love,
Jennifer


Anna Kate running away from Daddy yesterday





Andrew going with Daddy to do "errands" on Monday



Andy outside watching kids play on Friday




Yours truly..... after send -off ceremony Thursday

The Countdown Begins

This is Andy's last week at home before his departure.... and can I say that we are just CRAZY BUSY?!?!?!
We had a very sucessful little "send-off" party for him here at home yesterday with 50+ people in attendance... AND I made his cake... Red, white and blue stars/borders, etc.. Turned out pretty well, I think (will have to post pics sometime).
This week we have 3 dinners to attend, briefings, an official send off ceremony PLUS all the packing, last minute shopping and "domestic details" to attend to. YIKES.
That being said, I'll see you all soon- maybe this weekend, or early next week. I can't wait to catch up on all of your great posts later! Have a great week!
Happy Monday and
Much Love

Signs of Fall

Here are the "signs of fall" around our house right now.
Happy Friday and
Much Love, Jennifer

Miss Sassy

Little Miss Sassy was NOT happy with her new outfit today... oh, no MA'AM...
It was a little cool this morning, so I broke out a pair of her new jeans (and top), and she cried from the minute I put them on. She pulled at the legs, pulled at the arms, and was, in short, just plain MAD about the bows and long sleeves and long pants. Guess that means we have a summer girl on her hands!! She is happy as a lark being barefoot and in her sweet little dresses.
Here are some pics of her, um, unhappiness... She finally calmed down when her Daddy was holding her!
Happy Thursday and
Much Love

Cake deco 101

You know, I mentioned to y'all awhile back that I was taking a cake decorating class on Monday nights... Cake deco 101. Seriously. For those who have NEVER decorated a cake before in their life!! I've had sooo much fun doing it, and last night we "attempted" decorating our first cake. Here is a photo of my "crude attempt" at cake deco. Maybe not SO bad for the very first time??

We cut it last night after I got home, and I have to say, at least it TASTED good. Little Andrew was sooo excited when I brought it home last night and (very loudly) exclaimed "Oh mommy, my beautiful, beautiful, birthday cake, is it all for me, is it mommy?!?!" I didn't have the heart to explain to the little fella that it was just mommy's practice cake from class, or that *ahem* PINK wouldn't exactly be the color for his birthday cake, or that it wasn't made just for him. I smiled and replied "It sure is. All for you my sweet boy. Mommy made the whole thing." He then clapped his little hands and so "Oh mommy, you are such a big girl, I am so proud of you mommy, you did such a good job... Daddy, clap for mommy and my boo-ful cake".

After the sugar-fest was over (we added ice cream for effect), I got a big sloppy kiss from my sweet boy followed by a contented sigh, and an "Mommy, I love you for my cake".

Kinda makes it all worth it.

Happy Tuesday and Much Love

Orphans

These are the words to a song we are currently doing at church. I think they are so powerful, and have spoken to me in such a mighty way. I wanted to share them with you... some of you may know them, some may not. I pray that they will bless you as they have blessed me.


Orphans of God
Who here among us has not been broken
Who here among us is without guilt or pain
So oft’ abandoned by our transgressions
If such a thing as grace exists
Then grace was made for lives like this

There are no strangers
There are no outcasts
There are no orphans of God
So many fallen, but hallelujah
There are no orphans of God

Come ye unwanted and find affection
Come all ye weary, come and lay down your head
Come ye unworthy, you are my brother
If such a thing as grace exists
Then grace was made for lives like this

O blessed Father, look down upon us
We are Your children, we need Your love
We run before
Your throne of mercy
And seek your face to rise above
Avalon Lyrics

Happy Sunday and
Much Love,

Singing in the rain

What started out as a fun "picnic" (actually just a snack with crackers and yogurt) turned into a downpour quite suddenly. As we ran into the garage, little Andrew looked longingly at the falling rain (no thunder, no lightning) and then back at me, and pleaded with his best 3 year old voice to let him "get wet mommy, please, please". I agreed (hey, you're only a kid once, right??) and my little man had the time of his life!!! He won't stop talking about it, and I have to admit he was quite entertaining while he was "singing" in the rain (and hopping, and running and... well, you get the picture!)

Happy Sunday and
Much Love,

Best Tips- EV-AH!!

My very sweet (and talented and beautiful and amazing, and all that other stuff!!!) sister-in-law Ginny shared these AWESOME tips with me so I thought I'd pass them along!! So easy and practical- my kind of thing!

Reheat Pizza- Heat up leftover pizza in a non-stick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. Seen on the cooking channel and it really works.

Easy Deviled Eggs- Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash till they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done easy clean-up.

Expanding Frosting -When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar/calories per serving.

Reheating Refrigerated Bread- To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.

Newspaper Weeds Away- When putting in your plants, work the nutrients in your soil. Wet newspapers and put in layers around the plants, overlapping as you go. Cover with mulch and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic, but they will not get through wet newspapers.

Broken Glass -Use a dry cotton ball to pick up little broken glass pieces of glass. The fibers catch the ones you can't see.

No More Mosquitoes- Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.

Squirrel Away -To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't come near it.

MINE- If you purchase a new bike for your child, place a photo inside the handle bar before placing the grips on. If the bike is stolen and later recovered, remove the grip and there is your proof as to who owns the bike.

Flexible Vacuum- To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Reducing Static Cling- Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and - voila - static is gone.

Measuring Cups- Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill it with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry the cup. Next, add your ingredient, such as peanut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.

Foggy Windshield? Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car. When the windows fog, rub with the eraser. Works better than a cloth.

Reopening Envelope -If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Voila! It unseals easily.

Conditioner- Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's a lot cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.

Goodbye Fruit Flies- To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass and fill it 1/2" with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dishwashing liquid. Mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

Get Rid of Ants- Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it "home," and can't digest it ... so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed.

Take Baby Powder to the Beach- Keep a small bottle of baby powder in your beach bag. When you're ready to leave the beach, sprinkle yourself and kids with the powder and the sand will slide right off your skin.

For the first time today, feels like FALL may actually be in the air- WOO HOO!

Happy Friday and
Much Love,

The peddler's cup

It is quite an ordinary little item. One that you may pass a dozen or more times in my home and not even notice. It is rather small, and some may say it is rather nondescript. It sits on a table in my room along with several other things of its' kind. It is the peddler’s cup.

The story of the peddler’s cup began for me when I was a tiny girl. My great-aunt Gussie lived just across the road (in the woods) from my grandparents. She was my grandfather’s (oldest) sister and we all adored her. She was a tiny little person and always, always wore a smile when she saw any of us coming. She and her husband never had children of their own, so I like to think we were just a little more than special to her; at least she made us believe that we were. She was the epitome of femininity and was so old-fashioned and sweet. I don’t think I ever saw her without a handkerchief in her hand or visited her home without eating a slice of her famous pecan pie. Oh, how I loved to visit her home! I loved to wander among all the antiques, china and just touch all of the many beautiful things that she had. And I was absolutely enamored with …. The peddler’s cup. Everytime I visited I asked to touch it, hold it and hear its’ story. I never tired of it, and even today can hear her voice telling me the tale over and over again.

Around the years 1909/1910, when little miss Gussie was a wee girl, a peddler had a route through the country, and one of his stops was at the home of Waldo and Edna (my great- grandparents), and their children… Gussie, Geneva, Minnie Lee, John and Percy. Little Gussie and little Neva always became especially excited every time the peddler came, and loved to see all of his wares, tinctures, baubles and goods. The peddler was also especially fond of little Gussie with her dark hair, infectious smile and excitement every time he came to visit. Of all the “pretties” that the peddler carried on his cart there was one that little Gussie loved most of all. It was a tiny little teacup with a bird painted on it, and, oh, how she longed for that little cup. On one of his trips, she shyly told the peddler how much she adored the teacup, and on his next trip, he left a little package for Gussie. Nestled inside was the teacup and saucer. The little girl was thrilled, and counted it one of her greatest treasures all of her life. She loved it and took special care of it all of her growing up years, took it with her when she married and left home; and, wherever she went, set it in a special place in her home. Of all the many beautiful and much more expensive things that she collected over the years, I do believe this was one she loved the best.

On my 10th birthday, I, too was thrilled with a special surprise. The peddler’s cup was given to me by my precious Aunt Gussie. I, too, count it as one of my greatest treasures, and hope that one day another little girl I happen to know will be as thrilled with it as I was. That fragile little cup is coming up on its' 1ooth birthday soon. I only hope that I can evoke the same magic and wonder into that story as Aunt Gussie did. And I hope my little girl will treasure it as much as we have.

Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,
Jennifer


*** Aunt Gussie died when I was in high school. I now have other teacups and things that belonged to her. None of them mean anything near as much to me as that little cup does.

Remembering 9/11

It started out just like any other day. Beeping monitors, the soft hiss of the ventilators, humming of the infusion pumps and conversations over coffee to begin another busy shift in the ICU of the large university hospital where I worked as a nurse. That familiar morning rountine came to an abrupt, screeching halt as my co-worker came flying into my patient's room saying "Turn on the TV NOW, Jennifer, it's really really bad. A plane just flew into the World Trade Center".

My first thoughts were of an accident- a flight gone terribly awry. How could a pilot just mistakenly "fly into" the WTC? I finished my duties in that room, and made my way out to our central station in the middle of the unit. Everyone was talking, tossing around theories when suddenly, from an empty patient room another co-worker called out "O, dear God, there is another one". We raced into the room just in time to see the 2nd plane hit. I felt sick. I called my parents because I wanted to hear their voices. We heard about the Pentagon and became even sicker and more horrified. I felt so unsafe, so scared and so violated. I went through the motions that day in a sort of fog. I think that we all did. I wanted to go home, I wanted to touch my loved ones, I wanted to cry, but most of all, I think I just wanted to feel safe again.

I will never forget the image of my then- boyfriend (who was a doctor at the hospital where I worked) staring at the screen in that empty patient room, hands on his hips with tears streaming down his face. He never even bothered to wipe them away. That image is burned into my memory as exemplifying how we all felt, I think. Raw, emotional and angry, disbelieving and incredibly, incredibly sad. As the stories of the missing and dead began to fill the televsion and airwaves the next days and weeks, I found myself crying for those I did not know. Those husbands, fathers, dads, brothers, sons, mothers, sisters, wives and daughters. I will never forget.
I have not seen ground zero since the attacks, though I was there shortly before they occurred. My fervent hope is to see us build back better and bigger than before, while preserving the memory of all that was lost that day. Lost lives, shattered dreams, pierced hopes and, finally the loss of our innocence. I don't think any of us have been the same since. We were rocked out of complacency and thrust into a war that still rages. May God bless our troops and may God bless the USA.

Happy Monday and
Much Love,

Out of the mouths of babes

I was tagged by Big Mama to do this hilarious little “kid” meme--- and I only did it for Andrew (age 3 as of 2 weeks ago!) since Anna Kate, well, you know, since she doesn’t really, umm, TALK much yet. So, without further adieu, here it is…


1. Something I do well:“Play with my swords and throw dirt and get re-wy, re-wy dirty” (mommy says an amen to that!)
2. Something I'd like to improve on: “Well, I don’t re-wy know about that”
3. Favorite Food: “‘Ronis (macaroni) and my Happy Meal”
4. Three words that best describe you: “Si-wi (Silly) and Happy”
5. My happiest moment: “Well, when I got my baby sister and when my Thomas got his Annie and Clarabel”
6. The most important thing in my life right now: “My sissy and My mama and daddy… and my dog Buddy, and my Papa and Marmee and A-wi and John-John, and my Weep-frawg (Leap Frog)”
7. Then to the Moms, were you surprised by any of the answers: No- but I think I am surprised that I wasn’t surprised. Some craziest/silliest things can come out of his mouth sometimes!!!

I tag whoever wants to do this funny little meme for their lil' one!
Happy Sunday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

The fabulous '80s.

I know alot of you have probably seen this list (or one similar!), but sister emailed this one yesterday, and let's just say it brought back MANY memories! I was a little girl in the '80s, and a teenager in the 90s- so this really hit home! I made little comments of my own in the ( ).... I'm sure many of you can relate, too!!

You Know You Grew Up In The 80's if
1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word SIKE (loved to do this in Jr. high!)
2. You watched the Pound Puppies (YES- and only owned like FOUR- complete with personalized name tags)
3. You can sing the rap to the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and can do the Carlton (Umm. every. single.word)
4. You yearned to be a member of the Baby-sitters club and tried to start a club of your own.
5. You owned those lil' Strawberry Shortcake pals scented dolls (YES! and the one that blew a "scented kiss)
6. You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey on Blossom
7. Two words: Hammer Pants
8. If you ever watched "Fraggle Rock" (Yes, and remember all the words)
9. You had plastic streamers on your handle bars... and spokey-dokes or for that incredible sound effect (even worse... spokey dokes on a flourescent bike.sigh.)
10. You can sing the entire theme song to "Duck Tales" (Woo ooh!) (again, every word.)
11. It was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
12. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head. (Only, like, all the time!)
13. You saw the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on the big screen..and still know the turtles names.
14. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side (yes- head hanging in shame)
15. You played the game "MASH"(Mansion, Apartment, Shelter, House) (Can we say CONSTANTLY in JR. high!)
16. You wore stonewashed Jordache jean jackets and were proud of it. (oh, boy- YES!)
17. L.A. Gear....need I say more?
18. You wanted to change your name to "JEM" in Kindergarten. ..She'sTruly Outrageous. (even worse, had a JEM doll and thought her pink hair was the coolest thing ever!)
19. You remember reading" Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing" and all TheRamona books. (Loved 'em, still have 'em)
20. You know the profound meaning of "WAX ON, WAX OFF"
21. You wanted to be a Goonie. (only saw the movie, 5, 084 times!)
22. You ever wore fluorescent clothing.
23. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nosefell off and his cheeks shifted.
24. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
25. You took lunch boxes to school...and traded Garbage Pailkids in the schoolyard. (lunch boxes, yes, Garbage Pail kids were banned at our home- my mom forbade us to partake in that and for GOOD reason!)
26. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets.
27. You still get the urge to say "NOT" after every sentence
28. You remember Hypercolor t-shirts. (My jr. high crush had the coolest one- )
29. Barbie and the Rockers was your favorite band. (UMMMM... LOVED Barbie and the Rockers- had the tape, too, remember the song, loved her purple eyeshadow and hot pink sparkle tights, the interchangeable belts, and... I STILL HAVE HER!!)
30. You thought She-ra (Princess of Power!) and He-Man should hook up.
31. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes. (only about 20 pairs!)
32. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying "I know youare, but what am I?" (I was NOT allowed to watch Pee-Wee)
33. You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up"
34. You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates. (Oh MAN- we had so many birthday parties at the skating rink)
35. You ever got seriously injured on a Slip and Slide (yeah, like the time I bruised my stinkin' ribs on one!)
36. You had or attended a birthday party at McDonalds (ahem.. John Russell ??!!)
37. You've gone through this nodding your head in agreement.
38. Don't worry, be happy (Jr. high!!)
39. You wore like, EIGHT pairs of socks over tights with high top Reeboks (Oh, my lovely hot pink high top Reeboks- I am so happy thou art out of style!)
40. You wore socks scrunched down (Loved 'em)
41. You remember boom boxes and walking around with one on your shoulder like you were all that
42. You know what it meant to say "Care Bear Stare!!" (YES!)
43 You remember watching Rainbow Bright and & My Little Pony Tales (every Saturday)
44. You thought Doogie Howser/Samantha Micelli was hot. (Loved Doogie)
45. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac. (Favorite show in 5th grade)
46. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool...and don'teven flinch when people refer to them as "NKOTB" (Remember--- what about bordered on obsession?)
47. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell," The ORIGINAL class. (Zach, Kelly, Slater, Jessie, Screech, Lisa.... need I go on?)
48. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THROUGH THE HEART. (Guilty)
49. You just sang those words to yourself. (Guilty, again)
50. You remember watching Magic vs. Bird.
51. Homemade Levi shorts
52. You still sing "We are the World"
53. You tight rolled your jeans (In Jr. High.... All.the.time)
54. You owned a bannana clip. (unfortunately)
55. You remember "Where's the Beef?" (Uh... even had a Shirt with the words in glitter on the front.)
56. You used to (and probably still do) say "What you talkin' 'bout Willis?"
57 You had big hair and you knew how to use it.
58. You're still singing "Shot Through the Heart" in your head, aren't you!

Happy FRIDAY and
Much Love,

Prayers

Just wanted to ask everyone to be in prayer for Susan
Godfrey. She will soon be delivering a baby with Potter's syndrome that will not live for more than a few hours after birth. I cannot begin to imagine how hard this will be for her and her family. Let's lift them up in prayer.
Happy Thursday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

A Grand Time

Yes, quite a grand time was had by all out "in the country" as we spent Labor Day weekend with my in-laws. I guess that I am quite fortunate to have married into a family in which I not only just get along with, but actually like all of the members!! We got to just hang out, let all (7 so far) of the kiddos play, go into town to shop and eat lots of good food! I even got an impromptu lesson on cutting out and sewing a little girl's dress with a lining! It was soooo wonderful to enjoy a slower pace, NOT have a schedule, and not be rushed for anything. My little Andrew was enthralled with all of his cousins ("my kids" as he calls them!!) and Anna Kate got constant attention from just about everyone! Anyway, its back to all "hecticness" this week ( how ya like that word I just made up??) and back to the real world. I'm sharing some fun pics of the weekend- and of Miss Priss sleeping from exhaustion on the ride home! See y'all soon

Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Neglected

My poor blog. It has been quite sorely neglected since my hubby has been home, but for GOOD reason! Y'all, our life is just crazy right now. I know, I know, everybody has alot going on, but right now we have all the "normal" stuff going on, AND the not so normal. Things like trying to cram in lots of visits with friends and family for Andy before he leaves. Business matters to take care of. Parties to attend, and several events to plan and coordinate. We have obligations 3 night a week (some weeks more) and 2 mornings a week (for me) until his departure. Things that are not so essential (like my poor blog!) are falling by the proverbial wayside until our life slows down a little. And that is okay, too. Remember life is what happens when you're making other plans. Life is happening, and it's great! I am "enjoying the journey" (that's just for you, Lindsey!). I know y'all understand that I don't get to post and comment as much as I'd like to these days, but my essentials like family, time in God's word, and other obligations are taking pretty much all I have to give. I'm sure I'll be diving headfirst into bloggity land before long, though. It's just all about p-r-i-o-r-i-t-i-e-s for these few weeks!
So, I'll be seeing ya around, though probably sporadically.
Have a great Labor Day weekend as we officially wave good-bye to the good ol'summertime! BRING ON AUTUMN for goodness sakes!!!!!!
Happy Thursday and
Much Love

WFMW- Wipes Containers

With TONS of empty baby wipes containers (from 2 little ones that are really close in age), I was faced with the daunting task of .... what in the world to do with all of them. For a while, I threw them out, but then I starting using them- for everything! My hubby uses them to organize small things in his workshop; I use them as a caddy for small toothbrushes and toothpaste in the kid's bathroom. We use them for organizing small toys in the toy armoire, and, as you see pictured here, I use them in the activity cabinet for organizing colors, stickers, etc. This definitely works for me!



Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

One Year Later

August 29, 2005. The day that changed all of our lives. A lady named Katrina who turned out to be not such a lady after all. She took so much from us, and offered nothing in return, save her howling winds and brutal surge.
And where are we today? One trip down our ruined coastline will tell you. Oh, there are a few glimmers of hope here and there. If you look closely, you may see a few brave souls rebuilding along our beautiful "emerald coast", with its pristine white beaches and breathtaking views. The glimmers grow brighter and brighter the further inland you drive. Construction is everywhere. Unfamiliar tongues are heard in the neighborhood grocery. Progress is being made, but that progress is in baby steps.
Gone are the familiar haunts, the favorite eateries and the gorgeous, stately antebellum mansions that lined the shore. In their place are only the ghosts of conversations and happier times, sheets of twisted metal and piles of debris.
What Katrina could not take from us was our spirit. The spirit of our land, our South, our Mississippi. The pioneering spirit of our forefathers and steel magnolia mothers. The spirit that has become the very backbone of our recovery. Yes, we have mourned, but that season has now passed. A new day has dawned here on our beloved coast. A day full of promise and hope. Will it be different? Oh yes. But hope, sweet hope is what we cling to.
I will be participating in a sunrise memorial service tomorrow to mark the first anniversary of that fateful day. We will be standing in a place where the surge was at its worst, across from the remains of our beautiful church facility. We will remember those who lost their lives, the bravery of our first responders, and recount the lessons that Katrina taught us. Lessons we must never forget.
Please join us in a moment of silence tomorrow to remember all we have lost here in our devastated region, and for those who are continuing to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives.
May God be with us as we continue to recover.
Happy Monday and
Much Love

** Photo of our ruined church facility post-Katrina. It was almost completely destroyed by the massive storm surge and wind. The remains have since been demolished, and our congregation is meeting elsewhere as we are in the rebuilding phase (at another location). God has been amazingly, incredibly faithful. He continues to add to our numbers and bless us abundantly. How Great is our God...

Happy Birthday, Sweet boy

3 years ago today, at 11:12 p.m. to be exact, our lives changed forever. We became parents.
Our precious son Andrew was born and we were in love from the start.... has it really been 3 years? That oft repeated phrase keeps playing over and over in my head... seems like only yesterday, seems like only yesterday...and, truly, it does.

Oh, how he has grown! From those first kicks and flutters felt by mommy to the tiny baby learning to sleep through the night, to the toddler taking his first step, to walking to talking, to sleeping in a "big boy bed", AND to doing everything "by myselphs". How we have loved watching him grow, blossom and learn. How we have celebrated with him at each stage of becoming more independent, though it meant him being less and less my baby. How we look forward to experiencing more and more of these precious milestones with him. How we pray everyday that he will grow into a man that loves the Lord with all of his heart, soul and mind.

~I love you sweet, precious 3 year old boy of mine. You are an amazing blessing~



** Photo taken this afternoon at his "Thomas" party... a happier boy could not be found.


Happy Saturday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Overwhelmed

I received the box pictured here in the mail yesterday, and was absolutely, positively... you guessed it... overwhelmed. Yes, that's right, I received my "encouragement box" coordinated by our precious friend Joy. So many of you contributed, and I must admit, after read one encouraging and sweet note after the other, the tears began to flow! How can I ever thank you for the support you have given me for this time that my husband will be gone? How can you ever know the gratitude that I felt when I saw that package, filled with love, from so many of you that I have never even met? You are precious to me and have demonstrated the true love of the body of Christ. Words seem inadequate, but nevertheless...( you KNOW my mama taught me to be polite!) ... thank you. Thank you. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart. Thank you.
" I thank my God upon every remembrance of you"
Phillipians 1:3
Happy Thursday and Much Love

Scarce

You know, sometimes life gets a little crazy.
And that is definitely what ours is this week, so you'll just have to please pardon me if I am a little, you know, scarce. We have a birthday party to plan for little Andrew, I am in the midst of a cake decorating class, another birthday party to attend, choir/ensemble obligations, small group obligations, an afternoon trip with my mom, and a household to run, meals to cook, babies to tend and a husband to spend time with (because, you know, time with him is a little scarce too! )
So if I'm not around much here, or on your blogs, please excuse me this week.
Hopefully we'll be in "smooth sailin' waters" next week and, you know, back to "normal".... whatever THAT is (ha)!!
Because, you know, LIFE happens.
Happy Tuesday and
Much Love

States!

Thought this was a cute idea!! You can click on the States you have visited, and it will show up on the map. ANYWAY y'all, these are the places that I have been. If you decide to do this on your blog, let me know, so I can pop over and see!Thanks to Mommy 4 Jesus for the idea! She's a sweet new blogger, so click on over and tell her HEY!
Create your own visited states map


Happy Monday and
Much Love

Tagged!

I was tagged for this cute little "meme" by Tammy!

Name 3 things about each of your children...

My eldest Andrew (Will be THREE on Saturday!!)
1. Is a Thomas the Train fanatic
2. Crawls up into my lap and says "I love my mama" about 100 times a day, sealed with about 1,000 kisses
3. Is FIERCELY independent. Almost every phrase is prefaced by "I will do it BY MYSELPHS"!!!!!

My little Anna Kate (13 months)
1. Just started walking last week, and now delights in carrying a "purse" on her little arm wherever she goes!
2. Can do about 8 "baby signs" now .... YAY
3. Loves to growl like a lion at EVERYONE- it is hysterical.

Now I tag... whoever wants to share three things about their sweet kiddos!
Happy Sunday and
Much Love,
Jennifer