my heart is sad...

My heart goes out to the families of those loved ones who died today in CT.  I am so deeply sorry for your loss.  My prayers and the prayers of my family will be with you all.

take a breath..

take a breath.  take a breath.  take a breath.  

i remind myself this many times each day.  i find us rushing. all. the. time.  between the big kids and school and activities and the little one and all his fits... it is hard to slow down.  if i am being honest... it is hard for me to just sit down and enjoy life.  i see dishes, laundry, toys, unfinished projects, meals that need to be prepared, more laundry and on..   i always hear my mama in my head saying they won't be this little forever... this is the best time in our lives.. yet many days i am counting the hours to when my head gets to hit the pillow.  today i want to be different.  today i want to stop rushing.  today i want to sit and enjoy the minutes with my little loves.  today i want to live in the moment and be grateful for them.  

one cool family....

I was so super happy to spend some time with this seriously cool family.  They are the type of people who don't try to be cool... they just are.  Dana is such an awesome mama.  I can see it.  Her boys ADORE her.  She has such a beautiful spirit.  And just look at those cutie boys.  So fun.  

little sweets....

So much fun!  These little sweets are my dearest friend's children.  I see their mama in each of them.  They are smart.  They are fun. They are beautiful.  I'm so glad I get to see each of you grow up.  

My heart is full....

With a grateful heart I say thanks.  I am SO grateful to the Lord for blessing me with these wonderful kids.  I am learning so much about them and myself everyday.  I knew the moment each one of them was born I would be different.  I pray everyday that they grown into people who love God and have a heart for people.  All people.  Jude, I am thankful for your spirit.  Isabella.. I am thankful for your heart.  Dudley.. I am thankful for your passion. 

I am also thankful for this.  You are my best friend.  You are the one I dream about growing old with.. You are the one who loves me .. in spite of me.  You are determined to make our lives better.   I know I don't say it enough but I am thankful for all of it.  I am thankful for the last 18 years with you.

I am thankful for our crazy, busy, simple, creative, passionate and beautiful life.  

my hero

In memory of my hero...  my daddy

               Thanks to all the men and women who have served and are serving our amazing country.

You keep me JUMPING!

Oh my.. Oh my.. Dudley Paul.  You are almost two and I can't believe it!  You love me and challenge me.  You make me adore you everyday.  Thank you for loving me and letting me love you.  You had my heart before I even knew of you....