our somis life

two and a half.

2012-01-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

little man is two and a half. i get teary eyed when i think about how fast the time has gone and as i look forward to the future. i won't lie, there are exhausting days, but for every exhausting day i have weeks upon weeks of grace outpoured, joy experienced and smiles and laughs around every corner.

i jetted over to the local farm and petting zoo this morning...

he fed the goats, asked me about the "cow" (alpaca) and laughed at the chicken's funny mohawk.

and then, a gift from God today, a man who works at the farm, asked if i wanted pics taken of me and little man. he blessed our socks off. beautiful images. so lovely since i'm usually behind the camera. God gives daily gifts.

enjoy.

hey there good lookin'

2012-01-15T20:17:00.000-08:00

whatcha got cookin?

new post over at culinary novice

a few thoughts.

2012-01-13T19:10:00.000-08:00

i've been doing a lot of thinking. i began reading future men by douglas wilson again. i read it before little man was born, but it's a different read now that he is growing...and so am i.

little things have caused me to think. here are my humble thoughts.

little man knows and understands more than i could ever give him credit for. he understands forgiveness, he tells me Jesus loves babies, he daily asks to pray for friends and reminds me if we forget to pray at a meal. we can carry on a conversation about the coolest trains and fire engines, but we can also talk about why penguins don't fly. when we jog through our neighborhood, he looks up at the birds to tell me they are singing, "blessed the man who fears jehovah." he longs for church and fellowship, gets excited about communion because it's for God's family, and he knows he is a part of it, has compassion on those hurting, and laughs harder than anyone i know at flatulent humor. he enjoys ice cream like the best of us, delights in it loudly. he says thank you until the person turns and acknowledges him. he holds doors. he loves deeply, lives deeply. he looks to see my approval when he shares with another. we do the same with our Father. he learns to put others above himself, it's a struggle just as much as it is for us adults. he fights his flesh. he wrestles. he loses sometimes. he confesses.

my son has faith. i don't doubt it. it breaks my heart to think of a parent doubting a child's faith. it crushes them, it teaches them not to believe when they do. this little plant that God has given me is one to water, to give sun, warmth and fresh air to. i am to guide him, God will prune him where necessary and will grow him abundantly.

listen to your child today. talk to them. talk about everything. they love knowing that you desire to talk, to learn and to grow together. and don't forget to pray for them and with them. they get more than we can even fathom.

stingy out gets stingy in

2012-01-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

http://www.feminagirls.com/2012/01/05/stingy-out-gets-stingy-in/

this life we live...

2012-01-08T23:20:00.001-08:00

p.s. yes that board in front is the one my husband shaped me. i took her (the sparrow) on her first flight tonight...it's been in the works for about 4 years. just had to build an addition and be parents in between... :)

New Years Goals

2012-01-02T22:05:00.000-08:00

I have been pondering my goals for New Years, and after last years rather large list , this year, I am taking it easy. Three main goals, (and many others trickling in throughout the year):

1. simplify

my life can get really full. simplify will be from my calendar to the clutter in my house, to the many sentimental things i hold to, to the multitasking i do all day.

2. cook

i gotta get in that kitchen more consistently.

3. keep running

i love it. i have been bit by the bug. if i am able, i want to enter another race this year.

as for my trickle list, it will consist of things like

* work on sewing

* read more

* learn to breakdance

important things like that....:)

and i have my ten year wedding anniversary heading my way in august. more things to think on, goals to make for our family, and memories to ponder!

Happy Christmas and New Years...Disney Style

2012-01-02T17:24:00.001-08:00

Magic Kingdom (more beautiful than I imagined!)

Kennedy Space Center

Meeting Mickey on the cruise

Enjoying looking at the Tigers together at Animal Kingdom

Swimming

Epcot (always dreamed of seeing that giant ball since I was a little girl)

By now, you definitely should not be surprised by our families' (er--my) affinity for Disney...

Thanks to my amazing in-laws, we enjoyed an unforgettable Disney Cruise and tour of Disneyworld in Florida this holiday season...Unfortunately, little man got super sick near the end, but got to enjoy everything before he did. Enjoy the pics...

...And yes, Magic Kingdom and Disney World were everything I thought they would be, and more. (Although, word to the wise, don't go to Magic Kingdom on holidays unless you want to wait for rides for 250 minutes...P.S. We didn't.)

Little man meeting Mickey went something like this:

Little man walks bravely up to Mickey. He knowingly smiles and gives Mickey a high five. We take our picture and he takes a little more in, watching Mickey, then saunters away, waving several times, saying, "Bye Mickey, have fun now!" I can't say he is shy in the least, after that, he danced the night away on the dance floor with his cousins.

Merry Christmas-- love, our little family.

2011-12-23T19:37:00.001-08:00

2011-12-17T10:48:00.000-08:00

a sinless son

is a foreign thought

but being a mother

isn't.

thinking on Jesus' life

from birth,

toddlerhood

to manhood--

i ponder his humanity.

and i think of life with a beloved son.

hearing the little voice

recalling scripture

telling stories

dripping with

imagination.

listening to

his voice in the other room

songs made up

heart of joy

overflowing

through melody.

walking together

thoughts pouring

from his little heart

declaring the birds sing

hymns and praises to God.

contagious energy

desire to play

childhood created to be fun.

awakening,

excitement to see

his parents,

experiencing the day.

watching

as he helps

daddy outside

raking

shoveling

woodworking

learning about

the sweat of his brow,

value in hard work

the pride in earning a wage.

looking intently

at his father

an example...

admiration.

heart filling

with deep affection

sharing merriment

laughing at life

abiding in joy.

being encouraged

in saving

mommy and daddy

from bad guys.

sweeping,

dust scattering,

heart full

from helping.

bending down

to wipe up wet footprints

fresh from the tub.

recalling

the day's fingerprint-

now erased.

ready for tomorrow's imprint.

the delight in his family

cupping mommy's face in his hands

just because.

declaring his love for kisses.

the excitement of church.

of his body

of his people

his family.

enjoyment of food

delighting in taste.

declaration of things

delicious to tastebuds.

a full heart

watching him stand in awe

of wind

and

rain.

enjoying

the young marvel at beauty.

gifts to his mother

flowers

pride in the choice

that he and daddy picked.

the same excitement

in bringing home rocks

anticipation

for the same response

the flowers delivered.

a heart

moved

from such gifts.

life as a mother to a son.

marveling

that

even the prince of glory

and creator of the universe

wondered at what He made.

the designer of laughter

experienced it for the first time.

author of our story,

maker of the heavens

delighted and redeemed

such things as these.

Hervey Photo

2011-12-14T23:33:00.001-08:00

Hurray! It's up and going! Enjoy a much more up to date website from us!

Hervey Photo

read...

2011-12-12T21:50:00.001-08:00

http://emeryjo.blogspot.com/2011/12/only-thing-that-will-remain.html

disney poster child

2011-12-12T14:11:00.001-08:00

that dazzling smile was made for disneyland.

Five years

2011-12-07T11:41:00.001-08:00

it's really unbelievable to me that it's been five years since i lost my grandparents. this year, the date came and went, dread was gone, tears were few, and ...

life went on.

but it never means i have not endured so great a trial that i did not have to seek the Lord's strength daily. the tears have come unpredictably, but this year, He filled my time with things that were so renewing and refreshing, that suddenly, through these times....

i see new life.

i have lost. i have endured pain so great i cannot explain. i have mourned with my entire soul. but this year was a turning point. my dad called yesterday morning, and saw how i was doing. we are both very much in the same place. yes it was tragic, yes we lost deeply, but--life goes on. i cannot be the mom, wife, friend, daughter i need to be if i am remaining in a place where i grieve but do not move from that grief.

moving on does not mean you are disregarding your loss or lessening it, it means you are walking. one step each day. sometimes you fall back, sometimes you take more steps than ever. and suddenly, you are years away from that time that it hurt so sharply, it was as if each breath were a reminder of the loss. suddenly, your breaths are deep, your sighs are less, your eyes are dryer than they were.

and

life

goes

on.

2011-11-17T08:43:00.000-08:00

such an encouraging blog post over at femina...

please read, it basically captures what i was trying to say yesterday, but sounds so much more clear!

2011-11-16T12:03:00.001-08:00

if ever

you struggle with the lies

that the world hands to you

as a mommy---

remember

that

in the middle of

wiping bums,

teaching your child about autumn,

explaining fog,

cleaning crumbs,

asking forgiveness,

getting hugs from your child,

working through sin,

eating donuts and talking together,

receiving flowers picked from your flower pot,

cleaning many a puzzle piece,

library trips,

smiles,

kisses,

tears,

wrapping presents,

riding scooters together...

...that it wasn't insignificant.

it did make a difference in the world.

what you do daily is huge.

the books read,

the floor swept together,

the lunches enjoyed.

sometimes this "career" makes a bigger impact in the world

than we realize.

the loss of sleep,

the unwashed hair some days,

the routine of cleaning,

the joy of growth and obedience,

seeing compassion and encouragement in your child's actions...

this "job",

menial to the world

is more significant

and meaningful

than the feeling that you are "giving back".

because,

in the biggest way,

you are.

because you are

giving

to a soul

who will someday

step out

into that big world.

one foot

time.

Photo Challenge Day 15

2011-11-15T07:56:00.001-08:00

Silhouette

(My town is known as the place where the hummingbirds come to rest.)

girlfriends

2011-11-13T16:44:00.001-08:00

so this weekend, i got to see my girlfriends from college (our yearly/semi yearly visit) while my hubby went on the first annual boys camping trip little man. it was funny that as i reflected on our time together, i had reasons to be thankful for many things...

i've known these friends for fourteen years

God is bringing us through a lot of the same lessons

our fellowship is the same as when we were living in the dorms, deep and full

i walk away from our times together challenged, renewed, encouraged

i have a blast when i'm with these girls

we've grown in so many ways since college, and yet in other ways we are the same girls when we get together...

i love you all and can't wait til the next get together!

Photo Challenge Day 14

2011-11-07T15:30:00.001-08:00

Eyes.

Since I'm more than a few days behind I figured I'd add one more in... Those eyes say so much about him as a person, for they are full of life, joy, excitement and a whole lot of boy-ish-ness!

Photo Challenge Day 13

2011-11-07T14:12:00.001-08:00

Myself with 13 things...

i love writing. i think it's something i got from my Dad. and for all it's worth, i think that writing is an amazing way not to just clear your head, but to define your thoughts. today's assignment was to take a picture of myself with 13 things...i got my feet in the pic, but here's my description of all 13 journals in my life:

(From bottom to top)

1. Blue bird journal. To paste my magazine clippings of beautiful things.

2. Wire bound bird journal. To write my notes for devotions, usually a lot of copied thoughts from commentaries, also has my prayers.

3. A wood journal I received as a gift many years ago. I've always meant to write about mine and my beloved's romance in it.

4. My bird journal to write notes from books I'm reading. I usually put questions to ask my husband or quotes that really stood out to me.

5. My beloved favorite yellow church journal. All my church notes are in it. They are tear-stained pages, for God is doing a mighty work in me through the Word at our church.

6. My "K" journal from a dear friend. It's the journal I use to write my thoughts for a book I am writing.

7. My Gratitude Journal. My husband bought this journal for me. It's the best thing to do when we lose sight of what's important. "Gratitude turns what we have into enough."

8. My birdcage journal. (Are we seeing a vague bird theme here???) It's my commonplace book, where I put all my favorite quotes.

9. My woodland forest journal. It's the journal I've been writing to my son since before I knew of him, until now.

10. A simple notebook I keep on my nightstand. I use it when calling companies or and need to write down information.

11. My black notebook. Haven't written in it for years, but was using it to be creative and keep track of life.

12. My green notebook, with my Grandmother's handkerchief as a bookmark. Wrote in that before and after her death about my feelings.

13. Random notebook I sometimes keep in my purse to keep track of grocery lists, etc.

Photo Challenge Day 12

2011-11-05T23:50:00.000-07:00

Sunset

Photography Challenge Day 11

2011-11-04T13:25:00.001-07:00

Something blue.

(This is a very special blue hat, for it represents my husband, the hardest worker I've ever known. Those white stains are from the sweat of his brow.)

Photography Challenge Day 10

2011-11-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

A childhood memory

Halloween

2011-10-31T21:55:00.000-07:00

This Halloween was like no other. Before planning and preparing, I read an incredible article on Halloween. It really helped me in truly being able to celebrate as a believer, and knowing we are the ones who should give out the most candy and say the loudest "trick or treats" on the block...read up. It may blow your mind.

That being said, our Halloween was filled with cheering, shouting, trick or treating, fellowshipping, barbequing, tractor-pulled hayride, Charlie Brown watching' kiddos. What a night! And for the first time, our little man got it. He ran from door to door with his friends, saying trick or treat, thanking people for the candy (most of the time he'd turn away before they got the chance to put it in) and then heading on to the next house. We rode the tractor-pulled hayride through our little town, cheering randomly (it's something I've wanted to do since we moved in almost 4 and 1/2 years ago!). At one point, our little man looked at us and said, "This night fun!"

One year difference

2011-10-30T21:11:00.001-07:00

So crazy to me that one year ago, we were searching for pumpkins with a little tike...and now, he's a big boy in so many ways...

Photography Challenge Day 9

2011-10-30T21:03:00.001-07:00

Someone you love.

Photography Challenge Day 8

2011-10-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

A "bad" habit.

(fyi: I won't be quitting this one.) :)

highlights from the pumpkin patch

2011-10-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

horsie rides

feeding longhorns

petting goats

wooden trains

picking pumpkins

jumping off hay

tractor driving

photo credit of family portraits: Jenn Davis (thank you!!!)

Photography Challenge Day 7

2011-10-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

Fruit

(And what better than apples and peanut butter??)

Photography Challenge Day 6

2011-10-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

From a low angle

amazing post

2011-10-26T22:53:00.001-07:00

to any mommies out there who are feeling a little tired, here's a post that is uplifting...

http://www.feminagirls.com/2011/10/26/when-the-milkshake-runs-low/

Photography Challenge Day 5

2011-10-26T22:15:00.001-07:00

From a high angle

Lavender in my back yard. My favorite thing to cut, and best fragrance!

candids

2011-10-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

as i was shooting the pics for my photography challenge, i got these and couldn't pass up putting them up

Photography Challenge Day 4

2011-10-25T21:07:00.001-07:00

Something green.

(Lollipop rewards for good potty action!)

Grilled Cheese MmMm

2011-10-25T14:18:00.001-07:00

Today I reheated some of my Butternut Squash soup, and I decided the perfect thing for little man and I to eat with it was Grilled Cheese. Enjoy at my Cooking Blog!

Lobster season

2011-10-24T22:12:00.001-07:00

loving that lobster season...

to go with the lobster i made some homemade butternut squash soup today with butternut squash harvested from our garden!!!

enjoy the recipe if you're up for an amazing smelling house for autumn!!!

Photography Challenge Day 3

2011-10-24T22:02:00.001-07:00

Clouds

Photography Challenge Day 2

2011-10-23T19:54:00.001-07:00

What I wore today

Photography Challenge Day 1

2011-10-22T21:50:00.001-07:00

self-portrait

Her sweet heart

2011-10-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

My friend Summer's daughter has a tender heart of compassion that I could definitely learn from.

It leaves me greatly humbled. Please check out Ashlynn's site for the amazing bracelets she's made to raise money for Compassion for kids to have resources who don't have Bibles, medicine and even livestock. Please check it out to make a difference. Small differences make the most difference.

Lessons from the potty

2011-10-21T21:48:00.000-07:00

I've been compiling a little post in my mind that I finally have gotten time to sit down and write. For the last week I have been committed to spending my day with my precious boy, running to the restroom every time i hear the familiar beep of the timer.

It has been a very rewarding experience for both of us, and its also been incredibly exhausting for the both of us. I'm so thankful to be surrounded by such wonderful Mommies who have shared their experiences with me and i am so thankful for the relief and support of my incredible husband.

I would love to share a couple things that have left me chuckling and pondering in the same breath...

1. Buying more than one pack of toddler underwear is a good idea. ( I had to go back to Target because 7 pairs weren't enough!!) Clorox wipes are your best friend.
2. Stocking up on candy and sticker charts (that I made) were a fantastic idea that I gathered from a Mommy from church (thank you, Virgie!)
3. I've never been so happy about bowel movements before.
4. Automatic flushers are the worst in public restrooms.
5. Family restrooms are the best in malls: their "Bubba-sized" toilets are such a blessing!!!
6. Sometimes Mommy and son just need to get out with Daddy for a choo choo train ride and coffee at the mall after looking at the bathroom walls all week
7. My celebration "Potty Dance" has been perfected.
8. I'm so proud of my son no matter what.
9. Potty training has caused me to really draw close to my son in ways I couldn't have if we'd been out and about.
10. I'm learning to say no to outside commitments when i simply cant stretch myself anymore because my priority is my family. (I learned potty training is a full time commitment)

time

2011-10-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

since it seems that i have a lot of random bits of "down" time on my hands (potty training in session), i have decided to utilize my time in the following ways:

1. Continue in my study of Phillipians (James was incredible)

2. Update our Hervey Photo website

3. Read Future Men again now that little man is a little man. :)

4. Take the Photography Challenge that I found on Pinterest...

Source: None via Katherine on Pinterest

mud puddle day

2011-10-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

pinecones and wooden hearts

2011-10-06T22:01:00.000-07:00

as long as i've blogged i've always tried to make sure

that my posts are edifying, encouraging and uplifting.

anybody can complain online

but i feel that God wants us to use these means for His glory,

and to present anyone reading with testimony to His hand in our story.

well, i assure you, mine will by the end.

so i encourage you to stick it through...

five years ago, during summer,

my husband

lost his uncle and grandfather in a matter

of a few months...

five years ago, november,

i lost my grandma to cancer.

five years ago, december,

my grandpa committed suicide.

in the days and years to come

this choice that he made

crushed me in so many ways.

it became hard to function

to find joy

and even laugh or be able to feel joy without guilt.

i wrestled with the faith i had known since i was a child.

i ached from closing myself off to friends.

i asked God some really hard questions.

He was there.

He was faithful.

He gave me mercy.

as i think back, the memory is fresh

in so many ways

yet the pain, it still lingers at times.

mostly, it hits when significant things happen

in our lives, and my grandparents aren't there to call.

my grandpa was an amazing woodworker.

he made so many things, bowls, vases, shelves,

candleholders...

but the thing that stood out that he made

and i got to keep

were a group of little wooden hearts

that he had carved for my grandma.

and i keep them in a basket on a shelf by the front door.

over time i have been able to part with a few things

that aren't too meaningful personally to me

but it's been a battle for me with what to do

with the load of candleholders, vases, etc.

parting with things makes me feel

like that much more of them is dying

because there is less of their story here with me.

and so i keep them.

until i realized something today, that hit me like lightning

when i looked down.

i had a crazy profound thought.

i looked into that basket full of wood hearts

that have sat in dust for so many years

and i saw two pinecones that had been placed in there

from walks i have taken with my son.

these pinecones are so represented of

new life

new memories

new cherished blessings

and it doesn't nullify anything

about my grandparents

it symbolizes

my embracing

and living fully with my son

and my husband

in the present.

it symbolizes remembering,

reminiscing.

it is carved, aged wood

and new seed to wood.

thank God for the pictures

every day that He gives us

to show us

that He writes our story,

and is not finished yet.

prayer

2011-10-01T12:12:00.001-07:00

this post was such a blessing to my heart.

may we continue to encourage our children

to cry out to God, for He hears them!

http://theresmoretolifethansleep.blogspot.com/2011/09/bedtime-prayer.html

death and resurrection

2011-10-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

in the last year

there has been a resounding theme

in our lives.

death

and

resurrection.

death of old things

resurrection and new life.

death of the wildly familiar

birth of the new, unexperienced life.

God has designed the world in such a way

that things die

and resurrect better than they were before.

for instance.

the flood.

death and resurrection.

Christ's crucifixion.

death and resurrection.

our new life as believers.

death and resurrection.

and this theme has been weaved in and out

of the tapestry of life.

if you look hard enough

you will see it in every day life.

catepillars become butterflies-

death and resurrection.

my dirty home becomes cleaned (by my labor)-

death and resurrection.

flowers are cut and more bloom in place-

death and resurrection.

the one that has played its notes loudest on the strings of my soul

is the death and resurrection of the growth of my son.

he learns to walk.

death of crawling, resurrection of his walk to becoming a man.

baby talk turns to more distinguishable words.

death and resurrection.

babyhood someday soon will turn to manhood.

death and resurrection.

and i see nearing in the years to come

the death of our sweet times alone

of childhood walks,

adorable questions

precious kisses.

into resurrection of a man learning to be a man

a glorious friendship

an understanding of things

fun

laughs

cries

a walk nearer to God

becoming like his father, both spiritual and earthly.

and i thank God for the theme

He has declared since the beginning

of death and resurrection.

thoughts on our photography business

2011-09-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

It has been a pleasure, not a duty, to be able to run a photography business with my husband for the last eight plus years. As we continue on our journey in bringing our work to the world around us, I look forward to more creative growth. Keep your eye on Hervey Photo in the near future for a little construction.

I am a photographer.

I work hard.

I don’t take a break until I have to.

I want to tell your story.

I have experience.

I have a creative eye.

I see every moment through a lens in my mind.

I seize any chance I can get to film.

Sometimes mistakes turn out to be the prettiest pictures.

Sometimes I fall but I always get my shot.

I have never experienced a difficult bride or groom in 8 years.

I love love.

I feel privileged to be chosen for such a momentous day.

This is a blessed vocation.

it's that time...

2011-09-26T19:52:00.001-07:00

california autumn-ish is around the corner....

disneyland is the perfect place to celebrate it....

2011-09-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

check out the amazing school my husband is part of. i am daily blown away. this video is awesome.

Veritas Hall

Veritas Hall Year 2 from Darren Doane on Vimeo.

James 3

2011-09-22T08:52:00.001-07:00

I've been so blessed in my study of James that I simply had to share it. I have seen in these past few days, the Spirit lead and the Scriptures come alive in such a blessed way that I can't keep it to myself. :) It will be in note form due to the way I study. I read the scripture first, then read the commentary to see the study done on it. Enjoy. I hope it encourages you as well...

"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." James 3:17- 18

(The following is a combination of my notes from the study of the Matthew Henry Commentary)

"True wisdom is God's gift-it is from above

True Wisdom is:

1. Pure-Studious of holiness both in heart and life.

2. Peaceable-Peace follows purity and depends on it.

'Those who are truly wise do what they can to preserve peace, that it may not be broken; and to make peace, that where it is lost it may be restored. In (families) heavenly wisdom makes men peaceable.'

3. Gentle-not standing upon extreme right in matters...not being furious in conversation, nor harsh and cruel in temper.

4. Persuadable-towards good or away from evil.

5. Full of mercy and good fruits-inwardly disposed to every thing that is kind and good, to relieve those who want and forgive those who offend.

6. Without partiality-free from judging and opinion

7. Without hypocrisy-no disguises nor deceit, sincere and open, steady and uniform, consistent with oneself.

True wisdom will go to sow the fruits of righteousness in peace, and thus, if it may be, to make peace in the world.

...and that which is sown in peace will produce a harvest of joys.... (vs.18)

'For light is sown for the righteous,

and gladness for the upright in heart,

& the work of righteousness shall be peace,

& the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever.'"

(Matthew Henry Commentary on James)

Arizona Trip Day 1

2011-09-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Little man and I took an adventurous journey out to see my parents in Arizona. It's been tough being away from my beloved, but it's also been a lot of fun out here.

Day 1 we were greeted at the airport by Grandma and Grandpa and got to go explore a place called Out of Africa. Here are some pictures because I am not sure what words can describe such an amazing experience...

Little man's favorite part of the day: the "choo choo train" (shuttle)

Got caught in a thunderstorm, one of my favorite parts of AZ is monsoon season!

Unreal.

Dad showed his talents by feeding the giraffe with his mouth!

Mom made sure O didn't stick his fingers in any unwanted animals mouths!:)

Walking in the middle of grizzly bears and tigers: kind of like an illustrated nightmare of mine. :) But I had "fun" for little man's sake :)

Two peas in a pod.

...Did I mention I miss my husband?

my little swimmer

2011-09-09T21:22:00.000-07:00

our life in the waves

2011-09-08T19:51:00.001-07:00

our life has taken a new turn

hitting the waves together

mommy wetsuit

daddy wetsuit

little man wetsuit

little man sized waves

delighted screams

cheers for more

helping daddy carry the board

this is the beginning of something good

2011-09-04T23:56:00.001-07:00

"If you run, you are a runner. It doesn't matter how fast or how far. It doesn't matter if today is your first day or if you've been running for twenty years. There is no test to pass, no license to earn, no membership card to get. You just run."

-John Bingham

neighborhood

2011-09-02T23:35:00.000-07:00

when did my baby turn into an active, adventurous & awesome boy???

ps. gotta love all the amazing neighborhood kiddos + some more!

we love our street!

happy birthday, my love

2011-09-01T22:06:00.000-07:00

happy 31 to the man who still gives me butterflies

who i have gained more respect for than anyone in the world...

thank you for being a good man. a man of integrity, virtue, honor and character.

i love that your son and i can't help but to honor you,

because of the man you are.

i loved every second of being married to you and can't wait for what the Lord continues to give us.

happy birthday, my beloved.

and the adventure continues

2011-08-31T12:08:00.001-07:00

it starts up again

with matching lightning mcqueen tattoos

bikes

and donuts.

buddies for life.

the last week

2011-08-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

what do you do when you find out

you will be stuck inside the house

for the next week and half,

unable to be with other people?

well, we got creative this week,

and let me share my findings...

playdough works wonders

pixar puts out a lot of good movies

neighborhood walks are always magical

coloring is classic

train sets save the day

flashcards are super fun

and my favorite of all...

stickerbooks.

thank you beth for the amazing gift package and loaning of movies

and thank you neighborhood kiddos for the get well cards. :)

we're on the mend. :)

wrestling

2011-08-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

every day
my husband comes home from work

and every day

my son asks him to wrestle.

i love my boys.

our book

2011-08-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

The Lovebirds Family Story by Cheston and Katherine Hervey | Make Your Own Book

I had ideas rolling around in my head since before my son was even born. Searching for adoption books with a message of God's grace, love and heart was disappointing. God has written a story for our family in such a precious way, that I wanted to share it with anyone whom it could encourage. I wanted a resource for families who are experiencing adoption, who are involved with a family experiencing adoption, etc... I hope this book can encourage parents who have adopted, children who have been adopted--to see God's loving hand through adoption.

Thanks to my husband, and his amazing artistic abilities with the illustrations....Our book is done. I hope it can reach and encourage many.

life with little man

2011-08-18T21:19:00.000-07:00

reading time...truth is, he held this pose for a few minutes, then it was back to trains!

my fave pic of my boys, a kiss on daddy's head!

born to surf, yet still working on the swimming part right now!!!!

married to you...

2011-08-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

nine years ago

on august 17,

i married the love of my life.

my life began as one with

my best friend

my companion

my truest heart.

and so many people said

because we were young

that we should have "lived a little"

before getting married.

but

have

lived

lot.

it's been a full life--

adventures

camping trips,

traveling the world.

a few of the sights--

the eiffel tower

big ben

the grand canyon

new york

the pacific ocean,

the atlantic.

that's how far my love

extends for my beloved....

from one sea to the next.

we have walked through dark trials

we have experienced deep joys

we have wrestled

been tried

and embraced our faith.

we have built a life

a solid foundation in Christ together

we have slowly built our home

tended our gardens

tended our relationship and friendship.

what a blessing to hit the cool waves

on a surf date

or breeze through books

on a barnes n noble date.

this life,

this full life

has been nothing but blessing.

and i have the privilege

of waking up every day

next to the love of my love,

eagerly awaiting yet another

best day ever.

to many more, my love.

pics from camping

2011-08-06T13:34:00.001-07:00

Checking out the giant sequoias

Bubba's newest: "Bubba, show your teeth!"(as in smile) and this is what he does!

Two amazing men in my life

Love this girl!

Woke up Bubba from his nap to see the Sequoias...he wasn't happy....

Bubba's best camping pals. They were covered in dirt and happier than I've ever seen!

Daddy and Bubba walking to see friends at their campfire

Enjoying the beauty of Hume

Bubba showing us his sweet moves as he jumps off rocks

thoughts on camping

2011-08-05T20:58:00.000-07:00

i have camped since i remember, and have loved it. however, some of my ways have changed and have to say i lean more towards glamping than living off the land...but i still love to camp nonetheless.

after this last camping trip, i have made a few mental notes. allow me to share my musings:

1. there is no other way to appreciate what we have than to have a 'rough draft' of it in nature.

i always come home appreciating my bed and my shower after camping.

2. hearing bear stories during campfire talks still scares me.

i am a grown adult, but i still scare.

3. i love how creative you have to be when camping. i love figuring out things like saving water for dishes, ways to wash my hair with a water bottle...

4. i will always be a camper with makeup and accessories. i encourage any gals: pack your favorite clothes: it only takes a washer to clean them later. put on your makeup even if you haven't truly washed your hair for five days. you will still feel presentable and lovely.

5. camping food doesn't have to be only beans and hot dogs.

i have learned creative ways around packing food and sometimes you get to enjoy hummus and pitas or fresh cherries. there are no bounds when you have a bear box at your site.

6. make your campsite the best home away from home.

i brought my hammock, a clothesline, mason jars, and my favorite book. i also brought buckets of my son's favorite toys that he could play in the dirt with.

7. you can wash most everything when you get home, even your hair.

lakes are the best places for "baths" if there is no available shower. even a little product goes a long way for crazy camper hair.

8. when it comes to clothes, under-packing is fine. when it comes to bedding, always overpack.

i made the mistake of packing sheets and light blankets as we camped in the Sequoias this last week. we were not beach camping. i am such a californian. next time, pack the sleeping bag like your neighbor/friend says to...(at least i had overpacked my son's bedding!!!!!)

9. take the time to see the sights.

i am so thankful we drove a little extra ways to see what we saw. worthwhile experiences that are irreplaceable.

10. take time to relax and soak in nature.

it doesn't hurt to play on a log, or check out the nearest footprint or excrement. not kidding. my son and i discussed animal poo, and it was quite entertaining!

11. be okay with being dirty!

baby wipes are great, but i just know i am going to be dirty the whole time and think about what a wonderful shower it will be when i get home!

12. layer up on bug spray.

had a bite that made my eye look semi-Quasimodo one morning. thank the Lord for benedryl, although it made for early nap time for mommy.

13. plain old ENJOY YOURSELF!

p.s. after all these years of neither of us seeing Hume, we finally saw and loved it!!!!!!!!

pics to come.

2011-07-28T22:11:00.000-07:00

today would have been my Grandma Nancy's 75th birthday

and providentially

i have been cleaning and organizing around the house.

and it just seems that i get to know her better and better

through all the little treasures she left me.

it was months ago, that i was cleaning my laundry room

and hanging up an old tapestry

that was made in 1931 for my grandmother when she was young.

as i read the inscription on the back

(that i never knew was there),

tears wetted my dusty face:

"for my granddaughter, Katherine Joy. this is still in the same frame,

tape, string and thumbtacks my mother used. i couldn't bear to change

anything. i did use a little paint to tie the frame in with decor.

i could not give this to anyone but you, dear Katherine. All my love,

Grandma 8/13/06

she passed away 3 months and 4 days later.

you probably wonder

why i still write my late grandmother's birthday on my calendar.

she lives on in my heart.

and something that is very important in this life is memory.

she left me with a wonderful collection in my mind of memories.

tonight i opened one of the bags of her things

that i came across in my organization.

it was full of parts of her life, and i got to know her better.

even though she's gone.

my grandmother was a beautiful and talented musician.

she knew how to play an organ like no other.

and nothing soothed me like hearing her play the organ

as i laid on the worn brown striped couch

with the familiar smells of their house

subconsciously calming me.

amongst what she saved were the following:

-her band letter for Meadville, Pennsylvania

-a letter from Meadville Broadcasting Service,

which told her that they loved playing her piano

selections over the radio

-a letter from the art publication society praising her

high examination grade

-a handbook from Pi Mu, a National Non-Secret, Active

Music Society

-a newspaper clipping of her piano radio debut

-a concert program from 1948

-the invitation for a piano recital she had in 1949

-a summer session bulletin for St. Louis Institute of Music

and as i file them back into the ziploc

that my grandpa put them neatly in

i smile

because i get to share her with others,

still.

So you think you can dance? (again)

2011-07-17T22:38:00.000-07:00

Here's the link for the episode I was on!

So You Think You Can Dance

Air Date: 7/13/11

Top 12 Perform

Season 8

Episode 14

Domestic Bliss

2011-07-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

So hubby and I have started a new tradition that is positively delightful! Each night, as we tuck our son into bed, we wander out to our deck in the backyard, pull up a good chair (for me it's a lawn chair, an oversized blanket & glass of wine), and pull out the books we rented from the library for the week. We read until there is no sunlight, the owls are out, and our backyard lights are on...

I just finished this book, Domestic Bliss by Rita Konig, which was a complete joy to read, and i even laughed out loud during some parts. For some reason, I love reading anything written by a British person, they say it better and with more humor and conviction. It gave me motivation in decorating the house, enjoying doing chores around the house and making the most of cleaning!

amazing encouragement for mommies

2011-07-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

please read this if you have a couple of minutes. it encouraged my soul beyond belief!

motherhood is a calling & where your children rank

and also this one:

motherhood as a mission field

so you think you can dance?

2011-07-13T21:56:00.001-07:00

guess what taping i got to go to today? (it's today's episode too!:)

(look to the right of nigel, it's me and andrea!)

(p.s. for those who inquired, rachel :), it was season 8, july 13, 2011 (top 12 performance)...

quote of the week

2011-07-11T22:11:00.000-07:00

What's, uh, goin' on with the chips, honey?

Sharing- It's what married people do.

Well, it's just that I have everything timed out perfectly for "crunch, sandwich, crunch. "

Now that you took that chip, I'm gonna be left with one bite of sandwich and no crunch.

(My Name is Earl)

it's baaaaack!

2011-07-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

wow, with these lovely long summer afternoons, i am feeling inspired to get my cooking blog back up, enjoy:

the culinary novice

new year's goals

2011-07-05T00:04:00.000-07:00

hmmmmm, halfway through the year, i decided to check on how my goals are going:

a few to work on, and a few achieved:

1. cook once a week

ha! i have cooked once or twice this year. but....i have made meals with my husband, so i am working up to that goal.

2. read my entire bible

as of right now i am studying james with a friend. i will have to work on that after our study.

*3. prepare for a 5k

sweet action! i have accomplished my first 5k in february, finished an 8k trail run a few months ago, and am working towards a 10k!

4. keep a consistently clean house

praise God i have been able to stick pretty close to Motivated Moms, and have a lot of summer cleaning and organizing underway! i even have fresh cut flowers in the house once a week from my garden!

5. read new books consistently every month on my yellow couch

gotta work on that one.

6. work on scripture memorization

yup. needs work.

7. write letters monthly

not too shabby. owen is sending pics he colors to his friends and family. does that count?

8. learn to sew

still gotta get a working sewing machine pedal!

9. camp and travel with my family

coming soon!

10. go on a trip alone with my hubby

can we say kauai may 2011???

11. have consistent date nights with my hubby

been doing pretty well at that. definitely have ideas in the works. fishing trip for sure! i'm addicted!

12. keep fresh flowers in the house

refer to question #4

13. take o to the zoo and just sit

still in the works.

14. read o books in bed

hmmmmmm. it's the rocking chair for now.

15. make every day an exemplary "routine" day

amen.

16. skateboard, bike and rollerskate again

got a vintage skateboard for o at the local thrift store, and busted mine out a few times. biking definitely a must and rollerskating.....well........

i love you little man.

2011-07-04T23:48:00.000-07:00

happy fourth!

2011-07-04T23:36:00.001-07:00

what a day! playing in the water, watching uncle mike catch a fish, seeing his first sparkler! one of my greatest laughs tonight was hearing my son say," i want that one," to a set of fireworks he enjoyed. sigh. melt my heart.

enjoying family.

2011-07-04T11:50:00.001-07:00

enjoying life

at the lake.

family walks

2011-06-29T09:53:00.001-07:00

summer is the perfect time

to slow down

take in time for things

family walks

and

let

yourself

taken

away.....

wild blueberry trees

grass that waves

rivers to hop

the brightest of bluebirds

bugs of all kinds

the quiet of nature.

time.

family.

peace.

a story you must read.

2011-06-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

http://rawchristianity.wordpress.com/2011/06/23/the-first-day-of-the-rest-of-our-lives/

happy birthday, to a true Joy.

2011-06-28T09:11:00.001-07:00

it's my mom's birthday today

and i keep remembering back

to when i was a little kiddo.

and for some reason

i get flashes from my life now as a mommy

and my life as a child.

and it's funny to me

that it makes sense the way

i parent

is such a reflection of the way i was raised.

memories of feeding cookie

the junkyard horse

getting carrots just for the occasion.

the anticipation of seeing cookie's cute face.

(i think we named her)

memories of playing in the local park

pool and fountain

walking through the park in Germany

learning about nettle and hedgehogs.

i always had something to do

whether it be crafting

or learning how to bake

pressing flowers

or making cards.

trips to the library

toting the familiar multnomah library bag.

getting "creatures" from the local grocery mart.

going to the zoo

dressed as a leopard.

splashing in the puddles

as the #1 puddle jumper.

watching birds

enjoying flowers

appreciating beauty.

life was always about

creating

appreciating

loving.

and now, as i watch my mom with my son

and as i daily raise my kiddo

i see that same love for creating

appreciation for nature

imagination.

going out at night to see the owl

taking walks in the glenn nearby

taking the wagon to the local market

for a "loll-a-pop" (my son's vocab).

every day

being

the best day...

EVER.

carrying it all on.

for His glory alone.

happy birthday, Momma. you're the best Mom EVER.

2011-06-18T21:42:00.001-07:00

"Because children have abounding vitality, because they are in spirit fierce and free, therefore they want things repeated and unchanged. They always say, "Do it again"; and the grown-up person does it again until he is nearly dead. For grown-up people are not strong enough to exult in monotony. But perhaps God is strong enough to exult in monotony. It is possible that God says every morning, "Do it again" to the sun; and every evening, "Do it again" to the moon. It may not be automatic necessity that makes all daisies alike; it may be that God makes every daisy separately, but has never got tired of making them. It may be that He has the eternal appetite of infancy; for we have sinned and grown old, and our Father is younger than we."
— G.K. Chesterton

Daddy.

2011-06-18T21:35:00.001-07:00

how could i have imagined

ten years ago

when i married this man

that i would watch him

be the most amazing daddy i've known?

firm in conviction

consistent in direction

bathed in tenderness.

fun

silly

creative

encouraging

delighting

in his son.

i couldn't have imagined

that fatherhood would be painted

like this.

not just throwing softballs

as i had imagined before marriage

but loving

teaching

living by example in humility.

the man whom i have watched

walk faithfully with his God

is still that man i knew

IF NOT MORE.

happy father's day my love,

you are the most amazing daddy i have ever known.

happy birthday little man.

2011-06-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

Owen's Birthday from Chet Hervey on Vimeo.

part 2.

2011-06-09T23:13:00.001-07:00

on this day

2011-06-09T22:57:00.000-07:00

two years ago

this very day

i met my son.

he came into this world

and has changed it

day by day.

from the smile

on his little face

to his compassion

to his passions

to his friendly demeanor

he wins hearts over daily.

and i stand

thinking how the days pass

and how i wake up

to daily changes

in my little man.

two years ago at this time

i was learning

how to bathe my son

how to feed him

and how to take care of him.

i look back now

and think of the grace

that God daily gives me

to be the Mommy He needs me to be.

and i stand in awe

of the man

that my marvelous God

is shaping my son to be.

today was a simple day, a day to reflect, celebrate and love on my son. i pictured it differently than it turned out. i pictured a day full of busy celebration. instead, i awoke to a smiling little man with a cold. it was a day to simply take it easy, enjoy a few of the things we love, and just rest and reflect.

Kauai video

2011-06-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Kauai from Chet Hervey on Vimeo.

may 28, 2011

2011-05-27T22:25:00.002-07:00

Owen Hervey's Adoption from Jordan Deutsch on Vimeo.

one year ago, may 28, our son was officially adopted into our family. what a joyous, blessed day to bring our beloved little man into our family. one of the best days of my life.

ahead

2011-05-27T20:50:00.000-07:00

i can see what's ahead

of the matchbox cars

playdates to the beach

peanut butter sandwiches

mud puddles &

sneakers.

dancing to a beat

eating tacos

the smell of sunblock

enjoying the waves

the rays

and a great playground.

i can imagine

it will only be a blink

and

suddenly

my boy will be a young man

and "ahead" will be now

and i will see him leave

in an old pickup after school--

board in back

to go pick up his friend

and catch some waves.

this boy will be a man

he will enjoy friendship

sweet fellowship

and living life

with his buddy.

for now, though,

i will soak in the moments,

the brief moments

of little toes in the ocean

sand covered diapers

spray on sunblock

and the most endearing

little words

new adventures

and young friendship.

2011-05-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

mother's day

2011-05-09T20:09:00.001-07:00

i remember mother's days of the past

and i'll never forget that ache as it would approach.

the cry in my heart would grow louder

the need to

nurture

love and

cherish a child would grow stronger.

i remember begging God to give me the desires of my heart.

i remember thinking i was ready three years before my dearest son was even thought of.

God knew.

God knew it wasn't time.

He knew He needed to prepare us as parents.

to grow in trials.

to depend on Him.

to cling to one another in Him.

and then,

He decided

it was time.

it was time to meet my beloved son

the child i had ached for.

and when i met that face

that precious little man

whom God knit for us

in another's cherished womb--

i fell deeply in love

because

before the beginning of time

it was planned

that

he was my son.

my best friend

2011-05-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

i still can't believe

that God gave me this man

he is not only my dearest love

but he is my cherished

my beloved

my best friend.

yes, he took us to kauai,

yes he picked dolphins

as my birthday activity

but

dove to the bottom of the ocean

to bring me up the sand.

he took me to the beach

that had turtles because he knew i love them.

he picked me plumerias for my hair

because he knows they are sentimental to me.

this man,

who has studied me

and known me

is the dearest friend i know.

my heart is his.

i look at him

and i still feel my heart melt

my throat tighten

and my eyes flutter.

mater

2011-05-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

bubba ran to the curb

this morning,

saying, "hi mater! hi mater!"

since i was gross after my run

and since daddy was retrieving coffee

uncle mike got the honor of being in this

awesome pic.

Bibbits

2011-05-04T23:12:00.000-07:00

Famous quote from my son, as we get out of the car, late into the evening:

Mommy and Daddy: "Ssssssshhhhhh, Owen, do you hear?"

Owen: "SHHHHHHHHHHH."

Mommy and Daddy: "Yes, buddy."

Owen: "Dissssssen.....dissen to da bibbits..."

convo with bubba tonight

2011-05-03T00:59:00.001-07:00

me: "hi buddy! are you having fun with nana?"

bubba: "yeah! nana and beepa (grandpa) and dees (steve)"

me: "that's so great! guess what mommy and daddy did today? we saw dolphins, whales and fish and even turtles! mommy swam with a turtle!"

bubba:"oh, nice. dolphins!"

hubby: "hi bubba! guess what we saw today? fish, whales, dolphins and turtles, too!"

bubba: "great!"

11,315

2011-05-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

for 11,315 days

i have been blessed

to breathe

to live

to love.

today, we celebrated my birthday

and i can honestly say it was

the best birthday i've ever had.

hubby had us scheduled for

a dolphin watching excursion.

it's my greatest dream to be anywhere

near dolphins...

we rode a boat out to the west side of the island

saw pods of dolphins and babies

and saw a whale jump vertically out of the water.

and while i have no picture of the whale,

i will forever

remember it in my mind.

when we got out of the boat to snorkel,

i spotted a sea turtle and actually

swam with it through the water.

when it came up for air, we saw each other

on the surface of the water.

it was unreal.

we made our way back

and had dinner, and God gave me

a little lightning show in the tropical sky

to remind me that He, the Almighty,

Giver of Life,

is celebrating mine.

Tonight I thank God

for life,

for the abundant provisions He has given me

for

my beloved, my friend, my lover.

This man he gave me

gave me a way to see life

experience life

love life.

and this trip has left me

baffled that God would see

fit to give me this amazing man.

and I return home tomorrow

refreshed as a wife

renewed as an individual

rejuvinated as a mommy

and ready again to dive back into that

adventure we call mommyhood

and marriage.

p.s. did i mention we miss bubba?

day 3.

2011-05-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

today was a delight, as we headed to the north side of the island. it is so lush. the mountains tower over you, trees are covered in vines, and one way bridges slow rushing cars. we pulled up to a place called "tunnels", where we saw a giant cave, and then snorkeled and saw amazing fish again. we looked for turtles, but alas, this is not the season for them, i guess. :) as we drove home, the mountains reminded me of jurassic park (yes i am a nerd, thinking of raptors and pterodactyls flying from the green). we headed to dinner and on the way home, we were caught in a dramatic Hawaiian rain shower. as we walked out of the coffee shop, it began pouring heavily, and as we pulled up to our hotel, it stopped as quickly as it had started. since it had been pouring, there was no one around, and we walked out to the beach to enjoy a quick view before retiring for the night (remember we are still parents of a toddler and go to bed earlier). as we looked out on the ocean, the beach deserted, there peeked the backs of two whales; a pre-birthday present from God!!! i have never seen a whale from land before, so this was such a gift! can't wait for tomorrow!

ps. missing bubba.

day 2.

2011-05-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

my most favorite flower in the world. (it was also my grandma's favorite.) with my most favorite friend in the world in front of my most favorite ocean in the world.

spouting horn

the ocean again

hiked to the waterfall!

well worth it!

after kayaking to waterfall...

i have asked hubby not to tell me the series of events planned for each day. i love surprises, just as much as opening a package and not knowing what is inside. today we pulled up to a bright shack with many kayaks parked outside. i had no idea what was ahead. what a brilliant day:

1. we kayaked 6 miles round trip to hike 2 miles in to a waterfall and rope swing into the water. i learned you gotta keep your arms tight on that rope swing. 1 successful swing + 1 hilarious swing=my first rope swing experience

2. after 9 years of marriage (in august) we have finally achieved perfect steering in kayaks (honeymoon steering was disastrous, because i only knew how to drive in circles)

3. we found one of the prettiest beaches-where two different beaches' water meets each other and "claps" in the middle.

4. we discovered "spouting horn"; a beautiful miracle of nature.

5. i saw a bird today i have never seen in my life, and wouldn't have, had it not been for the kayak trip. i will have to add this bird to my top 3. (those of you who know me well, i am obsessed with birds.)

6. i swam with schools of fish today, (Moorish Idol, Eel of some sort (yes, I screamed through the snorkel tube) and some beautiful rainbow fish --whose names I can't find)) It was thrilling.

floored.

2011-04-29T22:49:00.000-07:00

ok, now i know that i am sometimes oblivious to things around me, but really?!

my husband surprised me for my 31st birthday, mother's day and our 9th wedding anniversary--by booking a trip to Kauai 4 months ago...

a quick walk through our week:

i thought we were going to disneyland as a family on sunday and when hubby asked me to lay out clothes for the trip, and for a nice dinner, i thought nothing of it. fast forward to thursday, i show up at his work to see him and he tells me little toddler man is going to spend time with nana (i may have shed a tear... or five:) , and we hit the road, suitcase fully packed. (*now let me add that hubby thought of everything....including straightener of a friend, so i wouldn't suspect where mine was. he had it down to even makeup remover...) we finally get to the airport, to my surprise, and i find out at the ticket desk that we are flying to Kauai.

floored.

arriving in this amazing tropical island, for a wonderful few days of refreshment as a couple has been a tremendous blessing.

today we woke up early, had breakfast and set off for a 3 mile hike to and from a beautiful waterfall. as we headed back to the car, a heavily misted rain was coming down on us, and it reminded me of our beginnings, when hubby stole my heart, the first night was a date in the rain...

we spent the day by the lovely ocean, and then enjoyed a sunset on the beach. what a delightful time of refreshment.

no words needed...

2011-04-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

2011-04-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

happy easter.

love,

our little family

bubba

2011-04-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

this little pirate-lovin'

donut-eating

ray-ban-wearing

train-loving

rocket-riding

bumper-car-cheerin'

uncle-lovin'

loyal friend

has my heart.

his little voice

rings above the birds

each morning

"yo ho, yo ho ah ah meeeeeee..."

("yo ho, yo ho a pirate's life for me...")

and each night, as daddy

reads him his bible

and talks him through catechism questions

i sit with tears running down my face-

why would God give me such

favor

grace

love

to give me this little man?

this little faith deepener

heart softener

wonderful, precious boy?

because.

He is.

He is faithful.

He is kind.

He provides.

I love my family.

2011-04-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

God gave me

the best fit.

My husband

whom I am madly

in love with,

and fall more in love

with

day

after

day.

And my son

whom I adore more each day,

growing in leaps

and bounds.

Thank you, God,

for my beloved family.

My dear Mackenzie

2011-03-17T22:01:00.000-07:00

i love you
and i pray for you daily.
i have not forgotten.

http://www.vcstar.com/news/2011/mar/17/camarillo-teen-tells-congress-about-loss-of-her/#