Happy Anniversary to my Hubs!

With this nice weather I'm really falling behind in blogging. At least that and training for the dam to dam seems to taking up any free moments these days.

Well yesterday the hubs and I celebrated 8 years of marriage. We didn't really celebrate anything out of the ordinary yesterday as he worked, we went to the zoo with friends, we ate dinner together as a family but the two of us shared some homemade margaritas on the deck after the kiddos were in bed and that was perfect. I guess that's what happens after 8 years.

We did enjoy a free day last Saturday watching his brother golf at conference, hit some outlet mall shopping, T-Roadhouse for dinner, and pitch perfect to round out the day along with some preparation for Ells big birthday bash.

I think the most fun we had was listening to random songs of the past via lots of surfing radio stations and guessing artists and titles. Kinda geeking but totally up our alley. Thanks to the soundhound app it was a ton of fun. Even got to hear our song - "Truely Madly Deeply" by Savage Garden. I know it dates us but you must remember we have been together forever. Like 1997 forever. And that was a hit back then. Crazy uh?

I thought I'd give you a couple of my favorite wedding pictures. Of course, we are always goofing around so there aren't too many serious ones.

I'm just so thankful that I can honestly say I am still madly in love with him today as I was then. Probably even more so. Something about real life solidifys the deal. 

D...

You are the best. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. I prayed for a best friend 15 years ago and God gave me you. I'm so lucky that its you that gets to be the father of my children and my best friend til the end. I cherish you. Its not always easy nor perfect but there is no one who gets me better than you. Love love you. K

A trip to the farm

My grandparents are moving into town. My grandpa turns eighty in the next few weeks and my grandma finally got him to move into town. Wow is all I can say. He's been doing the snow bird thing for plenty of years now leaving for Texas after harvest and coming home in time to file taxes, but I really never thought I would see him move in town.

Thankfully the farm where I spent a week each summer of pretty much my entire childhood and love so so dearly stays in the family. In fact, my cousin is moving into the house. I doubt too much will change but it was sad to see things moved out when we visited this last weekend.

sage did try to feed grandpa too, thankfully he didn't try and eat the oats for once

We don't get there nearly enough but my kids thoroughly enjoy each trip. More and more now that they are a bit older. This time they each took a spin with Grandpa on Royal, the horse. A pretend drive in the tractor (a favorite since Shaddy's been a babe) and they got to feed my cousin E's bottle lambs for her. That was a treat.

Funny story...all my kiddos think Uncle R is my Dad at some point. Sage went right too him til he noticed Papa Tim across the stall. Then he wanted Papa. With Ells she wouldn't let Uncle R put her down til later. They must look a bit alike I guess.  

Plus my grandma sent me home with some treats. Like a chair that has been hers since she was a little girl (I'm not sure where it will go but I will find her a home somewhere in our house) and a large barn board for my new coat rack in our entry.

All in all I could have probably just skipped JB and headed up to their house.

Thankful Thursday

I was hoping to blog a few more times this week but nice weather equals a ton of outside time so therefore no quiet moments to blog. Oh well.

I am learning so much in my devotional on what to be thankful for. Its the little moments. Life's treasures that mostly go unnoticed that I'm trying to uncover and savor.

1. the fresh breeze
2. music on my runs
3. one on one time with shaddy - no naps - equals an impromptu attempt to conquer another level of angry birds star wars prior to cleaning the car and garage
4. neighbor kids
5. each of my kiddos personalities
6. birthday party preparations
7. individual time with my kiddos or close to it - ells and sage and I are on our own tomorrow while the boys head to watch uncle j play golf
8. d's super super flexible job
9. sage's sleep routine - he goes down so so much easier than either of the bigs ever did
10. exploring new parks
11. a good ole scooped cone of pralines and cream
12. ells' determination (in just about everything)
13. red buds on our tree out back
14. grilling (less indoor mess)
15. shadd & ells requesting that I read the next bible story at school. even acted out david and goliath.


I still haven't gotten to writing these down throughout the week so sometimes its hard for me to get really deep but I have every intention of getting that good ole thankful box that i made a few years ago out and by the kitchen sink.

Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart.

Psalm  97: 11

The rest of Ells big day

I just haven't had a chance to get the photos off my camera of the rest of Ells' actual birthday. We were surprised and excited to have some of our cousins come to visit that afternoon. When I mentioned Ells wanted to do some face painting - Cousin H and Aunt K jumped at the chance to help us. Of course, this lack luster artist was really excited they volunteered to help out.

The kids had a blast and we might even have a little face painting booth at the princess tea this coming sunday. Plus Aunt K brought Ells some really cute clothes that used to be H's and of course a beautiful Mulan doll. Cousin H has a secret admirer when it comes to Ells and she adores that girl. Thankfully she doesn't seem to mind the tag along.

We even talked Cousin A into the painting.  He choose a gator too.
 How bout that angry bird? Aunt K is really talented. She always makes the best decorated cakes and cookies too.

Then we finished the day off with some presents. If you can believe it, Ells acted surprised and loved the gifts her brothers picked out (remember she was with us. I honestly think she forgot about them). Plus some singing and brownies and ice cream. Neopoltian was the birthday girls choice. Daddy disputed but ate it anyway.

The best part of the day was opening cards - Ells got some mail from some of her grandma's. Grandma D and Papa G sent her three dollar bills. Shadd said, "great. one for me, one for you and one for Ells." We informed him they were all Ells and he was a bit heartbroken. Of course, he now knows its about 90 days til his birthday so the countdown has begun.

Another funny from the day was the next morning. Ells had woke up early so I was snuggling with her in her bed when Shaddy came to get in. Ells quickly said, " Guess what Shaddy. Today is your birthday." I love that she wanted to celebrate him so quickly. She had had her turn I guess.

Thankful Thursday

So I should totally be in bed right now or at least heading that way but well sometimes I just have a million maybe a jillion thoughts running through my head so well why not blog about it uh? oh if i really had the time my ramblings wouldn't just be on Thursdays thats for sure. Instead I spend the rest of the week or at least a few days trying to document my kiddos lives like a living breathing scrapbook trying to soak up all the memories I have of my little ones because I know it wont be long til they are old and not under my constant care and guidance.

Well tomorrow is a big day for me...annual JB in Minnesota. I know, I know. A usual fall thing but this is the first ever spring one so we are going for it, hoping to be wowed with treasure from a spring perspective rather than the fall gourd and pumpkin thing. Fingers crossed it will be a blast. Well it can't be bust as I'm going with two of my besties and they are always a blast. Just the road trip 8 hours up and back without kiddos is kinda like a slice of mommy heaven really. Of course add some coffee, ikea and junk. Couldn't be more of a recipe for success. Plus the hubs even came home tonite from redbox with some cold hard cash. Holler.

Okay. Sorry its late and this momma is just so excited, she may have trouble sleeping. I doubt it but hey. So much to be thankful for...love reading my devotional 1000 gifts plus totally coinciding with Ruthless Trust by Brennan Manning, another great read (thank you mom). I could just go on and on with quote after quote from each book but that would take time and effort and well I'm just rambling. But what is evidence of trust in God - a thankful heart. How could we not live a life of thanksgiving to the One who created us. His intricate design of this world is amazing and awe inspiring.

Just stop and take notice of all the little things. Its amazing what will catch your eye.

1. Wild Kratts - I love how that show talks about creature powers. Amazing how God created each creature with a special power or characteristic to protect itself, interact, mate, etc. How could we ever question a Creator?

2. the new birds nest outside on our deck - nestled up above the speakers. nice and dry. creating a soft heart in our daddy - he's letting it remain.

3. kiddo piles - you know where all the kiddos dog pile on top of me.

4. new games - love for learning, friendly competition and family time together

5. a day with friends - we spent the day with our forever friends. divine intervention in giving us the j's.

6. Sage's love for climbing - so far nothing but a bloody lip

7. Free clothes - thanks aunt k for making a special trip over to bring the traveling garage sale. Ells sported new jammies and a new outfit today.

8. How loved our kiddos are...we get a grand showing at every birthday. They are flooded with cards and calls on their birthdays and they are loved and cherished beyond my imagination.

9. A day of junk and favorites - only the hubs would be so gracious.

10. A glimpse into each of my kiddos hearts. Eyes of wonder and intrigue over small things and big ideas.

Thank you Lord. Continue to teach me to be first and foremost grateful for all that you are and all that you do.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

Psalm 100:4

Ells is 3

today is a special day in our lives.  its ellsyn's third birthday. hard to believe our little girl is 3. its easy to say it seems just like yesterday my water broke at my mom and dad's and she came in a whirlwind of a delivery, by far the easiest.

then the next thing you know she is painting my nails, belting praise and worship songs, dancing and twirling with skirts and dresses and loving a great shopping trip with her momma.

so far we've spent the day eating cinnamon roll pancakes. pretty yummy i thought. not sure that I won the boys of the house over though. of course, they were outfitted in three candles in honor of the birthday girl.

then we headed to target to pick out some gifts. daddy and mommy already got ells a new bike and few other things so these were just from the brothers. of course, she was a long so we didn't have trouble making sure she approved. not exactly how i planned this but well it was pouring rain and i didn't feel like taking her to spend a few minutes at daddy's office and i have had a weird crappy virus for the last week so shopping trips weren't even on my radar. she was lucky we attempted the pancakes this morning, really. poor girl. 

then we are on to our to do list for the day. it is pouring so we are making the most of all our favorite things to do inside.  on our list is playing games (guess who and connect 4 so far), watch a movie (probably mulan if ells is picking), painting finger nails  - got that one done already. got a little messy as sis attempted to paint mine. the purple glitter is pretty hard to beat though. we picked out some yummy ice cream for tonight and i made some special brownies for the occasion so we will celebrate again tonite, plus then the birthday girl will get to open her presents from her brothers so that will be fun.

then the real celebration will take place on Sunday the 28th. we are having a princess tea in honor of Princess Ellsyn turning three.


Ells...

Hard to believe you are really three. We have been talking about it for weeks but the day has finally arrived. Your are just too big. You have a big personality and lots of spunk. You tend to lead but aren't afraid to follow. Your hair seems to always be in your eyes and I try I really do to pull it back out of your face but you don't like it up all day. It usually finds its way back to a wavy mess. Your expressions crack us up and you brighten our days. You are known to be a little serious but we know better. Most days you can be found sporting tutus and crowns and dancing around the living room. One minute your a princess all prim and proper, the next a teacher leading class, and then tigress growling around the basement. You are tough and can handle the boys yet you bring a drama to the house that only a girl can create. It might be a crayon falling to the ground or your hands sticky but the stomping feet and screaming and can drive just about anyone to craze. Thankfully it usually takes some time in your room and a snuggle and a chat but you tend to come back.

I love you precious one. You are my daughter and more importantly a daughter of the utmost high. Dwell in His presence each day and I pray you will know more and more what that means each year.
Love love you sis.

Love momma & daddy

Thankful Thursday

Thanks to a dear friends recommendation and my mom...I just started the new devotional, "One Thousand Gifts"(I linked to the amazon page where you can buy it. It is amazing. Of course its essentially what I have been doing in my posts on Thursday however I feel like I my concentration just being once a week fails to get me thinking of the littlest things that truly reflect my thankful heart toward my Creator. And what an honor it is to know the One who created me. I have the ability to have a one on one relationship with the One who knit me together and formed me. Who knows me inside and out better than anyone else, even better than myself. Wow. What a lucky girl. But you are just as lucky because above all else that is what He deeply desires from each one of us. First to be His child and then to love and know Him more than anything else in this world.

We sometimes think all we need to do is become a child of His and then we a guaranteed the blessing of eternity with Him. However, we don't have to wait til death. He is real and available right now to enjoy the blessing of His all consuming presence. I encourage you to stop trying to please the world, other Christians, the jury of your peers but instead sit at the feet of Jesus, Your King, God, Creator of the world and of you, The Almighty. All His names reflect His power, glory and splendor.

So as I dig into this devotional and try my best to chuck the pressures of this world of being the perfect mom, friend, sister, daughter, wife, housekeeper, disciplinary, teacher, etc. I hope you can see the glory of God in my earnest attempt to thank Him for all the blessings, whether to the world they look like it or not.

1. Hot shower - so much of the world doesn't enjoy this luxury. I remember my week in Jamaica where the rain catchers stood on roof tops to hold water for toilets and showers. We had a rule on flushing and I remember praying for #2 so we could flush. Oh the life of luxury we live.

2. Birds chirping - the kids fascination with a robin sitting on our deck and the stories we got to make up as to why he chose our deck

3. Fresh, clean air - blowing breeze

4. Neighborhood gatherings outside - praying for opportunities to shine

5. Rainy days - good for the ground and my grass is getting green for free

6. Shadd's willingness to help out. He his definitely the big guy and a lot of pressure is on him sometimes to be the helper, play with Sage, help Ellsyn etc. So its fun to see him kick back and relax during nap time.

7. Laundry - seems daunting sometimes but I'm thankful my kids have plenty of clothes, shoes, socks, etc and that we have the means to wash and dry them quickly and efficiently.

8. Sage's love for books - we didn't routinely read to him each night like the other two. Call it busy putting two others to bed, building a house, I'm not quite sure. But he actually weaned himself this week choosing to read books over nursing.

9. My mom - she always listens no matter what. Thank you. (she also comes to the rescue when you have a high fever and cant seem to get going)

10. The still small voice inside my heart - praying that I always listen to it. Stirs promptings I wouldn't otherwise think of or entertain

Sweet Sleepers

After all the hoopla with Sage's bday party and Easter to follow these girls caught some much needed zzz's.

Too bad I didn't get there sooner. The pillow in the middle belonged to Papa who went to sleep a tad before these little angels.

Major Sager's Birthday Bash

We had Sage's birthday bash last Saturday. 

We went for the army theme, aka major sager (dubbed by uncle n and aunt k).

Scored some army men at dollar tree and some army eggs so we had a little egg hunt for all our attendees young and old. They of course scored some goodies from my gift closet. Of course as we were hosting I forgot to capture all the details. But I could as some a still hanging from my mantel etc. In due time I guess 

The party started at 10 am so we had brunch. Yum. Worlds famous grandma darcy cinnamon rolls, donuts, egg bake, quiche and fruit. Almost everyone could make it which makes for a pretty full house but so much fun to get both sides of our family together in order to celebrate. 

We do continue to multiply so it gets a little bit busier and more chaotic with each birthday but wouldn't trade all the nieces and nephews for the world.

 

Sage loves grandma darcy's cinnamon rolls. He ate in his high chair but decided to head to Papa for seconds I guess. 

Then there were gifts. Blessed my abudance from those who love him most. Of course, he had tons of helpers and loved each one of his gifts. 

Loving the gift from Shaddy. He loves his so Shadd knew it would be perfect. 

Showing off his duck duck goose moves in the middle of the present opening

Look mom, I got on it! So proud. 

 Then there is cake. Perfect size for the birthday boy! He did share with the other kiddos though.

Huge thanks to our big family for attending and helping this little guy celebrate this big milestone. We will see you in a few weeks as we tackle Ells third birthday. Good thing this momma and daddy love to throw a good party, otherwise we should have spaced these little ones out a bit more.

Thankful Thursday

Well sorry no posting as of late. I have felt kinda funny the last couple days. It all started yesterday when we were on our way to the dentist in Omaha, I know long ways for the dentist but totally worth it. Well not yesterday. We all checked out in flying colors except me, got a cavity that needs to be filled from pre-sage birth, oh well. Anyways we usually eat at Runza (our favorite) and then head to the dentist, tooth brushing in the bathroom a definite yes.

Both kids did great. Ells didn't stop talking to the hygentist and it wouldn't surprise me if she went into the dental world one day with all her intrigue. However, I started to feel really crappy on the way home. Just an upset stomach, headache, aching all over. I pretty much slept the rest of the afternoon away and bummed around today.

Not exactly sure what I have. Not a case of preggers, I checked that one off the list this morning. However, I'm still a bit unsettled and unsure if it was just fatigue from a long weekend with running mileage, birthday parties, easter celebrations, loan closing, dinner out with friends, dinner in with friends. We sure jammed a lot into the last 5 days so we spent today close to home for some r&r.

Probably a little too much information, really. So without further ado. Here's what I am thankful for.

1. Tech savy (photoshop savy) friends
2. A hill in my backyard
3. A huge deck
4. Warmer weather
5. Bike riding
6. Dirty clothes, hands, and faces
7. Camera bid less than expected
8. Free weekend
9. City wide garage sales (thought about having one but decided against today - nothing like adding another thing to the list. gotta get better at just saying no, even to myself)
10. pregnancy tests
11. when the bigs imagine together - today they took off on a trip to China
12. Shared nap times, happen so rarely these days
13. story time at the library
14. Ells' inquisitive mind
15. Sage's finger pointing
16. The love for books (all my kids)
17. Sunrise and sunset - love my windows

Egged

So last week we were egged.

Not the kind you are thinking but this kind...

Thanks to Aunt N and our cousins we got to enjoy a midweek egg hunt in our own backyard. Sage just happened to be napping when we noticed the random eggs lurking in our backyard so we hunted without him.

These two had a lot of fun. Maybe more than the camera seemed to capture.

And of course, the joy of treasure inside the eggs.