Vinson Boys

Sea World 2011

2012-01-08T13:44:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Day, our family spent a full day at Sea World. It was absolutely amazing for all of us! This past semester we have been studying the "Water Creatures of the 5th Day", so to actually see them up close was a bonus. The first thing the boys wanted to do was ride the Journey to Atlantis water ride before all the crowds got there. Needless-to-say, we rode it 3 more times before we left. After that we headed over to the sea lions and seals exhibit....it was fun finding each now that we know the differences. :-) Then off to the penguins, string rays, and dolphins. We also went to 4 shows that day; 2 Clyde and Seymour Shows and 2 Orca/Killer Whale shows. Clyde and Seymour are sea lions that are highly trained to mimic adults, clap, obey, jump on queue. THe boys loved them, but mom's favorite was Walter the walrus. He was so ugly he was cute!!!! I couldn't believe the size of these creatures. Lastly, Tate's favorite was the orca shows. We watched these massive animals jump, flip, splash, spin, and pose. Both orcas shows the boys wanted to sit in the splash zone...not too bad!

Throughout the day the had "street entertainment" and in this scene you will recognize 2 of our guys:-) shakin' it! Imagine that! haha

Salem Scott

2012-01-01T19:07:00.000-08:00

I have been so excited to share this precious little picture!! My roomie from college, Amy Scott, and her family have been in an endearing pursuit of this precious soul. I have had the privilege to walk alongside adopting families and this one has been the longest journey. Their paper work has been done and sitting in China for over 5 years, so to watch their patience and grace to raise their own funds, adopt another little one in the waiting, and commit this little one to the Lord has taught me so much!!! Amy and Drew serve at a church in Chattanooga, TN, but both grew up around Winston-Salem, NC. Please pray for Salem as they all adjust to a new normal and big brother Jonathan adjusts to sharing momma and daddy.

Making a Joyful Noise

2012-01-01T18:59:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends!!!
It's been awhile, but for some reason our settings were changed and I couldn't for the life of me figure out what to do, until today. Ta-da....so this is the first of a few posts needing to share. Owen is in his 2nd year of violin and it has brought more perseverance, diligence, and patience on everyone as he has worked hard. Here is one of two songs he played at his recital before Christmas. We have been super proud of him and his commitment to it.

7 SWEET years

2011-10-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

Edible soccerballs
Celebration Snack

Playing the "Nothin' or Noggin'" heading game

All of Griffin's "Soccer Team"

We have had such a fun time celebrating Griffin the last few days. On Sunday we had a soccer party with some of his friends. He loved it! We played a game of soccer, a heading game, and crab game which made everyone laugh.

Here are 7 of the many things I love about Grif!

1- hugs and snuggles on the couch
2- the ways he adores his brothers
3- his hearty laughter
4- his compassion for animals
5- his perseverance and diligence
6- the way he has a comfortable confidence
7- gentleness

Sweet Jesus, thank you for placing Griffin right in the middle of our family. He has a very special role of being a big brother and younger brother, and you knew his place in our family before time. We pray that you will continue to grow him in his tenderness towards you. You have uniquely gifted him for your work, and we pray that he continues to see himself in that light. Thank you for letting us walk this journey with him, because it is an honor to be his momma!

Soccer time!

2011-09-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Griffin once again wanted to play soccer after LOVING it last Spring. Last Sat. was his 1st game and the GREEN EAGLES did great. They played really well as a team and had a fun time. A few of the same players returned from last season, and Griffin's little best buddy, Jackson, joined him this yr. Here is a picture of a after game "funny faces." Grif scored 2 goals in his 1st game and he and Jackson both scored yesterday!! Way to go EAGLES!!

turning 5

2011-09-18T12:02:00.001-07:00

A little over a week ago, Tate turned 5!
We love his.....
adventure
intesity
fun
loving nature
rocking himself to self
indepedence
loudness
gentle touch at times
belly laughter
smiles
hugs
desire to hang with the big guys
tenderness towards mommy
carefreeness

For his birthday he didn't want a party....the only thing was to take his little friend, Caroline, out to eat and anything and everything BIBLEMAN. (Owen was a little concerned he was having a date before he was.lol) So, we invited their family to join ours at MOE's for his birthday. You will notice he is wearing a cape, it's BIBLEMAN. Yes, he WAS Bibleman on his birthday, and most days since then. ;-) Tate has sweet affections for his family and friends, and we love that about him. Many times within a day I will hear him say, "I love you sweet dawling!" Ok, melt my heart, sweet! Another gentle moment is now when he wants to brush my hair or when he is playing with younger friends. God is really growing him and molding him into a nurturer and lover of people and for that I am grateful! I am willing to wait and savor this time with him, but it excites me to think of the plans God has for his life.

Beach 2011

2011-09-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

In July, our family spent some much needed time at the beach after Chad finished his last semester of classwork!! The first few days at the beach, Poppy, Yaya, Aunt Jen & Uncle Derek, the girls, and Aunt Chel were at the same beach so we had the treat of being together! The boys loved being around them since we don't see them much. THe rest of the week, we just soaked up the sun and lots of family time. We boarded, built, and (actually read a book).
That was definitely a new/uncomfortable change. Chad and I got to experience the fellas growing independence from us. I mean, it was great to watch them lean on each other more, but it was hard. I sat there some moments thinking, "Don't they need me?" It was a WEIRD moment for me since this was a first in 8 yrs. As a mom, I have found comfort in being needed by someone, but the freedom on the sand introduced me to glimpses of a new season. Chad and I really enjoyed talking together in our chairs, reading, and relaxing more than ever before. But with that change, I can see how parents must work at keeping the communication going with their kiddos. (enough about my sentiments :-))
The 2 weeks after the beach, the fellas had "Grandparent Camp." A special treat for ALL! THey spent time with Grandma Jo and Cam, Poppy and Yaya, and then a week with Grandmother. By the end, everyone was worn out and the boys have a bookful of memories in their heads to carry them till next time.

Domesticated Cows

2011-07-31T19:34:00.000-07:00

I hope to share more pictures and thoughts from our recent trip to NC, but I had to get these out...no details required except: the boys are staying with my mom this week and this is part of their nightly routine:

Feeding Cows OREOS!!!! :-)

Willa Elizabeth Morgan Ivey

2011-07-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

Happy 96th birthday Ivey!

It was such a joy to visit with her a couple of times last week. She got to watch the boys toss their frisbee toe each other, listen to their belly-laughing "knock-knock" jokes, and bring her her favorite meal for a birthday surprise: a loaded hotdog and Pepsi. I guess if you have lived that long, you can eat whatever you want...

Mom and Ivey

Last week while cleaning out Ivey's home with my mom, I came across her personal Bible. Inside the front cover read:
"If you are ready to live life for Jesus Christ, then you must also be ready to die for Him as well."

She has been such a model of the Proverbs 31 woman for me and I am eternally grateful!

Recycle time!!

2011-06-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

Most of our summer days have been consumed with the pool or hanging out with friends, but this particular day, the boys chose to recycle! They took old cereal boxes or other food boxes and make "some kind" of outfit....I'm thinking a transformer, but their imagination is limitless!!

Seek Me Early

2011-06-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

Walk in My Way and trust Me. No evil can touch you. I am yours as truly as you are Mine. Rest in that truth.

Rest, that is, cease all struggle. Gain a calm, strong confidence in that certainty. Do not only rest in Me when the world's struggles prove too much and too many for you to bear or face alone. Rest in Me when you need perfect understanding, when you need the consciousness of tender loving friendship and intercourse.

THe world, my poor world, flies to Me when its difficulties are too great to be surmounted any other way, forgetting, or never realizing, that if, with the same eagerness, those hearts sought Me merely for companionship and loving intercourse, many of the difficulties would not rise.

The circumstances, the life, the character would be so altered-so purified, that those same difficulties would not exist.

Seek Me early that is the way to find Me. Early, before I get crowded out by life's troubles, and difficulties and pleasures.

~taken from GOD CALLING, June 16th

This devotion really impacted me last week as I was reading, and I hope you too will be encouraged! Have a blessed day!

Song of the Wind

2011-05-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday Owen performed in the Academy of Fine Arts Spring Recital and here is one of the two songs he performed, "Song of the Wind."We have been super proud of how learning an instrument has stretched him mentally and physically and how he can look back over this year and see how he has grown. I look forward to see where this will continue to steer him with his God given talents, whether it be violin or something else.
Enjoy Far-away Family and Friends!

Where did April go????

2011-05-13T18:37:00.000-07:00

Our month has been filled with lots of fun. Starting with a big Sunday spread with friends that ended in an Easter egg hunt for all. Then the fellas and I took a spontaneous trip to Chattanooga one day so Daddy could get some school work done in quiet. We had a blast! We spent the morning at the Aquarium and then went to the Creative Museum and then finished our day at Coolige Park running and playing chase. Also you will see some pictures from one of our science activities. We have been Exploring Creation through astronomy this year and one activity was to create an edible space rover. Well, the making was a hit but the eating was WAY better!! Then most of our Saturdays have been spent encouraging and cheering Griffin and his new found friends on his soccer team. MOst of they were completely clueless when they started the season so it has been amazing to see their gifts and talents as well as watching them gel as a team!! Spring fun!

a quick glance of my little man on Easter
checking out his loot with friends
enjoying his finds
Our spontaneous trip to Chattanooga to enjoy the Aquarium and Creative Museum

Owen working on his space rover after studying the planet Mars
our edible Mars rover....activity in Science...
Go buddy!
Griffin enjoying his teammates

SBXl

2011-03-27T13:35:00.001-07:00

Spring Break 2011!!!!

A few weeks back we took the boys to Gatlinburg, Tn for a week of fun, water, and play. We had the privilege of staying at a place with an indoor waterpark! The boys had a blast (and the parents too) to be honest. THe boys are all at an age to enjoy things a little more independently and a relatively safe environment. THe park had 4 waterslides (4 stories high)-yes, a NICE stairs workout, a wave pool, a playground that sits in about 6 inches of water and has a ton of gadgets to turn or twist to spray water, and also a surf/bodyboard simulation. We played hard, rested hard, and eat well! A great combo for a break...check it out, but I'll warn you-the pictures don't do it justice....

I have a "TWEEN"....Owen is 8!

2011-03-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back we celebrated Owen's 8th birthday with a STAR WARS sleepover. I idealistically thought they would just eat pizza, wtch maybe 2 movies, eat popcorn and then hit the sack. Oh the revelations of a house full of 8 year olds....Thank the Lord Chad was here to help as was a dear friend, Zack. The boys were TONS of energy going from eating pizza, making a bonfire, building 3D "sturdy structures" out of pasta and marshmellows, watching things burn, hitting the pinata till it was demolished, playing football outsde till 10:15, and THEN starting the movie. We had a few early sleepers, but most stayed up till about 12:30, and THEN were ready to start again at 5:30AM!!!! We just rolled with it and let them have fun, and fun was had by ALL. Owen felt TOTALLY loved on with a very diverse group of friends from homeschool, church and scouts. HEre are a few snapshots......
All hands on deck to help decorate the sign
Owen wanted to make sure the parents knew what we were doing ....such the planner....just in case they needed to pick anyone up early
All of his friends that came to celebrate
My sad attempt to create Darth Vader...thankfully it tasted much better than it looked.haha
My super happy skater
"Pile on the birthday boy"
Half the boys still sleeping at 6:30am....the rest playing outside or upstairs
playing football till about 10:15 at night
Dear Jesus, Thank you for these precious boy that you have entrusted to us for a short while. Thank you for gifting him in ways that make him unique and fearfully made. I pray that he would grow in his confidence of You and Your love for him, and that he would continue to nurture and celebrate the way You made him. ..

Owen's 1st Violin Recital

2011-03-13T12:20:00.000-07:00

Back at Christmas, Owen experienced his 1st violin recital. I have been so proud of his commitment to learning how to play, learning the strings and arm positions, and the perseverance to practice each day. I posted this for faraway family to enjoy his achievements but anyone else is welcome to watch.(sorry you have to turn your head sideways)

Bath buddies

2011-03-13T11:57:00.000-07:00

Where's Griffin?
my 2 monkeys
lovin' the beards
I know my time is drawing near to having all my babies/boys in the tub together so here are a few pics of their tub fun when daddy was on a retreat. Most days, my oldest is wanting to take a shower so it was so joyful to see the bubbles flowing over when they all got in together.

Changing it up!

2011-03-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

Well, after 10 years of wear and tear on our furniture, we are doing something new. We didn't want to buy new because we really enjoy the feel of our stuff plus we couldn't imagine just getting rid of perfectly good furniture just to change it up, sooo cheers to slipcovers!
After much search for the "right" fabric, I had a friend make the slipcover for our couch. It is now a deep chocolate and the chair and ottoman will be a geometric fabric that matches. To help cut some cost, I ventured to make the ottoman slipcover. Let me just say, I have a new appreciation for Lori Paschal and her labor of love for making slipcovers. Granted, it was my first experience so I know it took me twice as long with the learning curve, but the detail, pinning, stitching, and straightening is tedious!! But it is really fun to look at it knowing I labored over it and tried something new. It really was fun letting the boys watch me learn a new skill, fail, redo, but continue to persevere. And MUCH thanks to another friend who guiding my first cuttings for the ottoman!
I still have the bottom cording and hem, but it is essentially done! Here's the progress:
beginning to pin and stitch the top
The top and sides of cushion..
Essentially finished!

Inside out Snowy day FUN!

2011-01-31T18:41:00.000-08:00

Outside fun!!!
THis video was a day or two after our 6" snow at a popular spot so most of the snow is gone, but the ice prevailed! The ice proved to be a great slide for the fellas!

Inside fun!
A new family favorite show is Winter Wipeout that comes on every Thursday night. Well, while Daddy was out of town, the boys wanted to create their own version of the show. So, watch with caution....if you haven't seen the hilarious show or a commercial for it, it is 3 obstacle courses with elimination of contestants a each round. So, the last 3 people standing compete for $$$. Our version's goal is just to reach a "prize" ours being a sippy cup. haha Enjoy the show! OK.....so after MULTIPLE tries, I can't upload the Wipeout Video...possibly because it is too long. But if you can imagine Owen throwing pillows continuously at Griffin while also swinging a kitchen towel at his face while he jumps from chair to chair, then you get a mental picture of our 2 minute video. Oh yeah, also imagine Tate hopping across the room squealing, NOW you know what you are missing! ;-0

Christmas 2010

2011-01-17T14:32:00.001-08:00

Vinson Christmas Top Ten

10. Griffin battling a fever virus off and on for a week

9. The Ford's Fancy Fruit Basket and Harry & David Tower of Treats to surprise the boys - thks G Mom

8. Chad finishing 50+ pages of writing while staying in TN through the holidays

7. The Ferguson Clan coming to visit....lots of Apples 2 Apples ...Aunt Lima the official winner!

6. Spending Christmas Eve looking at the decorations at Gaylord & enjoying ICE!

5. Surprising Chad with Music City Bowl tickets - a RARE luxury in our home

4. Enjoying snow

3.The twinkling eyes Christmas morning as we enjoyed our gifts and time together

2. Listening to Owen play Jingle Bells at his first recital

1. Hearing the boys talk about why they are grateful for Jesus - something we do at each person's birthday - so precious!

more of the same thanksgiving fun....

2010-12-14T19:04:00.001-08:00

!

2010-12-11T13:37:00.000-08:00

Before present time...you can see their excitement!
Isabella (2) opening her presents
The top of Uncle Marvin's Christmas tree hill..the boys LOVED roaming the mtn all day!!!
Riding with Uncle Marvin in his Kubota
Mountain Top view of the Ferguson farm that I spent many summers playing..the white house on the far left was my grandfather's house
Yaya, Sophia (bundled up) and Aunt Jenna
Woot-woot: we get to cut it down!
Owen wrapping our tree
The Whole Vinson/Parker Gang

The week of Thanksgiving we met up with the Vinson/Parker Gang in Boone, NC at a cabin for the week. Thank you Poppy and Yaya!! We had a great time spending that time with our sweet little girl cousins, meeting Sophia for the first time, taking lots of walks and hikes, and just being together. The weather was great to be outside thankfully, and on Thanksgiving, the boys had planned to play flag football. So, we found a park and spent most of the afternoon laughing, running, tackling, and scoring touchdowns. What a FUN memory with Aunt Chel, Uncle D, and Poppy! We ended the week going to a Christmas tree farm and picking and cutting our tree. There were so many to choose from-wow!
One day we drove over to Jefferson to visit my Uncle Marvin and Aunt Wanda, cousin Renee and her new little girl, Amelia. We had a wonderful day roaming the farm, checking out their remodeled home, picking out a little tree for the boys, cracking black walnuts, wandering through the barns I used to play in, and eating some straight up delicious food! Yummy molasses stack cake!!
At the end, the boys rode home with Poppy and Yaya, and spent a week with family in NC. They had a blast spending that time in the car, going to Grandma Jo's for a few days and then on to my mom's house. It was a early Christmas present for Chad and I to have a week to ourselves in our own home. We forgot what it was like to sleep til 9am!!! That week, Chad was able to work on school work after hours and I worked on some Christmas presents. fun stuff!
We are SUPER glad to have the boys back and adjusted from travels, but it sure was a fun adventure!

Orphan Sunday

2010-11-07T21:12:00.000-08:00

This is a copy from my friend "Laura Parker Family" who is living out their passion serving overseas. She is sharing the story of one of her friend's persceptive on adoption. I too am so blessed to have friends in my life that have answered the "call" or should I say, "been obedient to the command." As for our family, we are not there yet personally, but its not our of reach either. So far, it has been our joy to love on and bless other families that have adopted and/or fostered.

I
It’s Orphan Sunday. Again. Another day set aside for the church to show orphan related videos, hear testimonies relevant to adoption and orphan care, and an opportunity to listen to sermons where orphans are [possibly] mentioned.
I must confess. Many times I ask myself, “What’s the point of it?” “Is having another day set aside to create an awareness of the orphan crisis even worth the effort?” Is it?
Perhaps I have become somewhat cynical. My bag.
Truth is, it all gets a little tiring at times. We’re the Christians. We’re God’s beloved church. His beautiful bride. We’re the ones He has called. We should not need to be convinced. We all know the need is out there.
Yet, we wait.
We wait for God to speak to us in an audible voice, telling us to “GO!”—sometimes He does that audible voice thing, you know.
We wait for the perfect job to come along—orphan care demands a whole lot of money.
We wait for the bills to be paid—can’t be taking on more than we can handle.
We wait for the larger house—because adding children requires a large house.
We wait for a few kids to leave the nest before we add more—can’t be having too many children in the home.
We wait for confirmation with the perfect scripture to drop into our spirits as a sign that we need to act now.
We wait, we wait, we wait.
And while we wait—they perish. The statistics are staggering. I can’t even look anymore.

Why do we find every reason under heaven and earth why we should not go? The Bible is as clear as daylight—“care for the widows and the orphans.”
It’s a lot like missions. My heart aches when I see how many churches don’t have a fabulous missions program. God’s Word says to “Go into ALL the world and make disciples of all men.” It’s a command! It’s non- negotiable. Taking care of the orphans is a command too. We’re commanded in His word to care for them—however that may look.
But still we wait for “the call” to come. Kind of like, “I am SO glad Mrs. Jenkins is called to lead children’s church, because that is DEFINITELY NOT my calling.

God hardly ever calls us to do things for Him when everything in our lives is just grand. He never calls us to walk on the water when our circumstances are sweet. When I look in the Bible, I see people doing things for the Lord in the midst of impossible circumstances. Tougher than what my circumstances have ever been in my entire life. Yet, they did it. In obedience. The Lord commanded them–and they went. They accepted the tough task that lay before them—come what may. They never asked the Lord for a re-commission.

So why in the world do we? What makes us so different to the people God gave us to learn from in the Bible?
Why are there so many uncared for orphans in the world when we’re commanded to care for them?
We would be wealthy if someone paid us every time we have been told that we were “called by God” to adopt our four children who have special needs. Or for the many people who have told us that “There is no way we could do what you do.”
I disagree.
You know what that does? It diminishes God’s sovereign power to do the impossible through each one of us, His people. Comments like that tell the Father, “Sorry God, but you don’t have enough power to give me the ability to parent a child who struggles in life.” “So sorry, God. Just go and call someone else.” “Oh God, and that mission field thing? There is no way I could ever do that!”
That’s perilous ground to walk on.

God’s power is absolutely made perfect in our weakness. When He commands us to do something, He equips us with everything we need to fulfill the calling with excellence. Even us–ordinary sinners saved by grace who are just average Joes. He does it for His glory! To make Himself famous in the earth. It has absolutely nothing to do with us. Everything God does is for His glory, not ours.
I believe with all my heart that God is raising up an army of crazy people to do the ridiculous. Many believe we are living in the end times. We agree! We sense that more than ever God is looking for those who are willing to do the impossible. Just WILLING! God is seeking out those who will serve Him with reckless abandonment, no matter where that takes them or what He tells them to do in this life.
Reckless abandon for the sake of His orphans. I’m in!
- Adeye Salem

2010-10-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

“I’m most blessed when I live each moment as though I’m in desperate need of God’s grace, for in that moment I increase my ownership in the kingdom of God.”
~Jesus (reworded by Ken Boa)

Creative Fun and Camping

2010-10-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

WHat our boys do when a table is left in the backyard...who needs "real" toys?

This picture just makes me giggle..Looking at his twig legs in my shoes and then that sly little smile. What a nut!!

Here are two of the four ladder back chairs in recently acquired from an antique warehouse, and so I decided to paint 2 black, 1 red and 1 was already a green color..works great in the dining room.

Chair Intermission: Let's paint a brick instead:-)

Ta-da! Two more chairs for our table!!

From the sounds of it, many of our friends had the same fun idea last weekend..CAMPOUT!! I was amazed they all 4 lasted till 6:30am, but they were champs(as they ran inside to get warm ;-))

Invasion of the SUPER HEROES!

2010-10-10T12:54:00.001-07:00

the Super Hero training warm-up! Check out those heroes: Luke Skywalker, Woody, Anakin, Boba Fet, Storm Trooper, Optimus Prime, Captain America, Superman, Super Stitch, Batman, Darth Vader and a FBI agent!
Anakin turned into Darth Vader; aka birthday boy was going through one of the obstacle course trainings for the super heroes.
Can you just feel his excitement!! Yay for STAR WARS!!
A delicious Ice-cream pizza we found at Maggie Moos (lactose-free) and it was yummy with our cupcakes;-)
Captain America and Superman!
Destroying Darth Vader: all super heroes were needed to get rid of this pinata!
Opening his present from Grandmother!
This year for Griffin's 6th birthday, we have been consumed with anything and everything Star Wars. So, we created a "Super Hero training camp" where they all warmed-up, practiced an obstacle course yelling their "hero's name" at the end, tested their balancing ability with an egg race, accuracy with swinging and taking out a pinata, and then of course, food!!! I think Girffin felt wonderfully loved by all his friends and had a blast! Before and after the party we watched the pre-trilogy Star Wars 1,2,3 and then headed to Mellow Mushroom to check out their new GLUTEN-free CRUST. The day was a success in the eyes of my precious little man!

Griffin, I thank the Lord daily as I see Him growing and changing you into a tender warrior for his Kingdom. You have a unique ability to include and care for those around you that could get lost in the crowd-you draw them in-you are intuitive to the hurts of others and wanting them to be ok- So far in your short life, God is already knitting your heart for a specific purpose and I look forward to watching where He guides your path. Thank you for being such a joy to have and laugh with in our home!!

Boys+Denim+Nature=Bliss

2010-10-05T20:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, a dear friend of ours, Rebekah, took these amazing pictures of the fellas. She was wanting some practice with multiple children and asked if I'd be up for it. HECK YEAH! As Chad says, "You're a picture fanatic!" And being that photography is NOT my gift, I was totally up for someone else to take the shots. So she spent about an hour snapping away, and I came home with many keepers.
I few years back when Owen was 5, Griffin 3, and Tate 1 we had similar pictures taken. I wanted to now get a few shots with Griffin now five (that's why the denim overall pics are mixed in) and this past Sat was perfect! (My thought and goal is to "one day" have a picture of each of them at age 5 on the wall) They were taken at a local historic site that provides unique settings, great color, and fun in the water. What child doesn't like that? Anyway, Chad and I were super pleased with the wonderful images and the fellas cooperation and we hope to do more pictures with the whole family soon! Just wanted to share our excitement....ENJOY;-)

Turning Four

2010-09-11T13:21:00.001-07:00

"Dinosaur Stomp"
"Pinning the spike on the Stregosaurus"

I love Tate Landry Vinson!

Tenacious
Affectionate
Passionate
Strong
Giggles Often
Tender
Loving
Physical
Enjoys basketball

My favorite 4 year old!!!

Going to "pee-school"

2010-09-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, Tate did something no one else in the Vinson home has done, started preschool!! He has been beyond thrilled about the idea since we signed him up the beg. of summer. Ms. Julie and Ms. Kristy have been so patient with Tate as he is learning authority from someone else. Above are "Treats from Tate" that we sent on the first day to say "thank you" for all the hard prep work to get his room ready. I really appreciate the role preschool will play our family, because it gives Tate some time with kiddos his age doing his age activities. And while he is away at school, Owen and Griffin are picking up two more subjects to cover on those days. We take school decisions one year at a time, and for this year, pee-school is one we are excited about. (I'm hoping he will find the letter R at school...so he will say pre-school) lol

Water gun refill = 8 stitches

2010-09-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

A post about stitches is one that I knew would come at some point in the life of our family, BUT the details of how stitches get on one's face is never known, and this week proved my point.

Monday afternoon we were playing outside with water guns and jumping on the trampoline with our best buds. Everyone was soaked, but Griffin needed to refill. He went inside and then about 5 minutes later I heard screaming at the back door. Well, I just assumed his hands were wet and he was just yelling, "Mom, help!" because he couldn't open the door. Well, what I saw on the other side of that door is a picture stamped in my mind forever. I opened the door and Griffin's face was COVERED with blood. I couldn't see his eyes..all I saw was blood.

My heart sank but my mind went into mommy mode with my mind racing with what, when, how, only to repeat over and over in a brief 10 seconds. I yelled to Jen and she called Chad and took all the boys to her house. I immediately wiped his face to find the wound. My heart sank again, but I said, "Grif, we have to go to the doctor-you need stitches. Hold this on your head, Can You?" Yes, I think-

I carried him to the car and told him he would have to hold the towel on his head..."ok" I immediately called our pediatrician and asked if we should come there or go to the ER. Thankfully they said, when can you get here-give me 8-10 minutes!
Once there, the nurses were amazing! Most came in to check out the wound and some thought we would need staples. But because it was on the face, Doc opted for stitches. 8 stitches! So, becaue I'm clueless with medical stuff, I asked,"how deep was it? He said, "You were looking at his skull! yuck! Thank you LORD for stopping there!

My little warrior was mighty brave that day! The only fear that came over him was when they wrapped him in the papoose to keep him still. He looked at me and HUGE tears rolled down his face. After that, doc numbed the incision and then stitched it up. About half way through, he just asked, "Can we be done yet?"-so cute:-)

So we were done with the WHOLE ordeal within an hour, and only 10 minutes after being home he wanted to play basketball and jump....talk about resilient! Like my brother said, kids are way more resilient than the parents...so true!

So on the way home I got the scoop of HOW:
"I went to the bathroom, then stepped on the stool to refill my gun and when I stepped off, I slipped and hit my head on the toilet." Toilet?! "Yes, and sure enough while we were gone, my wonderful hubby cleaned the bathroom. He said there was a huge blood mark on the rim of the toilet and drops all through our home.

I am grateful: he didn't pass out, could come get me, didn't pass out in the car, Jen took the others, Chad cleaned the bathroom, Dr. E was at the office, we had peace, the nurses were so attentive, friends were praying, and it wasn't more severe!

New Beginnings

2010-08-27T18:44:00.000-07:00

Three weeks ago our family started school with Owen in second grade and Griffin in kindergarten. The boys have done awesome with their work load thus far, and have had amazing attitudes each day. It really is wonderful hearing your own children come to you and say,"Can we start school yet?" or to see them go upstairs and get started early. Wow! I have been blown away by it all! I know the "honeymoon" and newness will wear off and we will have more challenging days to come, but my heart's desire is that they always desire to learn.
Learn new.
Be challenged.
Stretched.
Question reality-Wrestle with their growing character.

This year we have done things a little different and it has proved to be a blessing. I moved our school room upstairs to the latter part of our bonus room. More for me really. In the past, while the boys would be working at the kitchen table, I found myself distracted by the dishes, laundry, or toys to put away and when I left the table to tend to them, the concentration and attention would spiral out. Now, we have a set place to do our work and mommy's is ONLY (haha) multitasking the fellas school work. Chad and I also talked about the role he could play with homeschool, and we thought that if he would start our days praying for us, that would be huge! It has been just that. Tate usually yells down the stairs, "Daddy, time to pray" or he'll say, "the principal needs to pray." Funny how one statement of mommy being the teacher and daddy the principal has stuck:-)

Well, if you have tracked our family for any amount of time, you know Owen has always had an interest in music. At 18 months we put him in a music class and he's desire hasn't waned. The last two years he has talked about learning to play an instrument, and this spring he mentioned a violin after going to the JazzFest. Well, I let it go to see if it would come back in conversation and , sure enough, it did. About two months ago he said, "Mom, the fiddle makes the most beautiful music!" I almost chuckled out loud. His passion is refreshing. Chilling. Contagious.

Here is today after picking up his violin. Friday nights are movie nights and this is how I found him on the couch. Precious!

Dear Jesus, Thank you for Owen's tender heart towards music. I pray he will play loudly for you and Your glory. No one else! Stir in his heart a beat that continues and evolves as you grow him in wisdom and stature. May He never let go of this passion....just the way you made him."

Ferguson/Vinson Fam

2010-08-06T20:09:00.000-07:00

This is a rare moment to snap a picture with my brother, but I'm so grateful I did. A week after we were there, he was in a horrible mtn. biking accident and crushed his collar bone. Last week he had surgery and they were able to place everything back with the aid of a steel plate and multiple screws! What a trooper! So thankful he is doing better, but pls pray for complete recovery!

Look closely to the top of the swing set...yes, that is Haywood walking the plank directly above the youngers guys.. The adventure apple doesn't fall far.lol

Hamilton-5, Owen-7, Griffin-5

Hallsey-8 Our family's princess...beautiful inside and OUT. She has such a servant heart that was so tender to our guys:-)

Ivey's 95th birthday

2010-08-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

Willa Elizabeth Morgan Ivey celebrated her 95th birthday with 75 of her closest friends and family. Who is she? This amazing woman is my grandmother who has shaped my life in so many ways. I grew up spending every Sunday afternoon at her home either picking strawberries, riding the tractor, making biscuits, enjoying her strawberry shortcake, reading the comics after Sunday dinner~aka "lunch" for some of you:-), swinging on the tree swing, counting cows in the truck, riding our go-cart around the house, grooming the horses, and enjoying her amazing food. She has always been a very progressive woman considering her own mom was a post-master and Ivey went to college back in the 1930's. Even to this day she enjoys reading and painting. Just this past year she has painted 7 different oil landscape scenes and has done an amazing job. She has continued to keep her mind active and continues to go as she can.
Dear Jesus, Thank you for the beautiful servant you created in Ivey. I am so grateful for what she means to me and my family. My she continue to grow as Your child even at 95.

Beach Trip 2010

2010-08-06T19:37:00.000-07:00

Our family had an incredible time together at Myrtle Beach, SC in July. We were usually up pretty early and on the beach by 8:30am and played, played, played till lunch. Chad and the older two thought the waves were incredible for boarding while Tate and I stayed closer to the sand. We all spent hours playing UNO, swimming, building castles, knocking them down, eating, and showering off from the beach. This year was the first year I felt like the fellas were at a similar stage so we had more time together and not split up from naps or feedings, and in an odd way, it was a sweet blessing this summer. On the way to see family, we stopped by the USS North Carolina for a tour. It has been a long time since my parents took me there so it was fun to share that we my guys. An they thought the anchor and guns were "Awesome!!"

VBS Theme Song

2010-06-26T19:59:00.000-07:00

Sorry if it's a little blurry :-(

Summer Snapshots

2010-06-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

Most of our days have been spent at the pool, in the sprinkler, playing Wii, reading, play-dates and such, but here are a few snapshots of June. The fellas are having a blast together and love being together so we all have really enjoyed it. Chad spent 10 days in Mexico with 30 students while I held down the fort solo-well, not really, I had faithful friends call, invite us for dinner, check in, and praying for my stamina and attitude...to ya'll: the boys and I are grateful! I also have had the itch to do some home changes. I still can't believe we have been here 6 years, and most of our painting changes happened the first year, so we were due for some. If for no other reason to cover the boy beaten walls. haha

OIL JUBE FIELD TRIP: One day when I was getting our oil changed, I asked the guys there if they ever did field trips, because my boys were loving the "pit". They said no one had ever asked but they were willing, so 2 days later we got a tour of the "pit." We learned where the oil goes, what they do with the old oil, and how they checked the car's air flow.

CUB SCOUT CAMP: The week that Chad was gone to Mexico, Owen had day camp at a local park everyday from 8-3. He absolutely LOVED it. Each day they made a craft, learned character traits, shot a BB gun and also a bow and arrow in addition to other fun things. I must say, I now have experienced the "drop my child off all day" blues. Man, ,y stomach was in knots that first morning as we were praying over his day. I was trying to hold back the tears...WHOA it was HARD! But GOd gave me that timely blessing of camp while Chad was gone, and I was able to pace myself with the other two.

Waterslide Limbo!! Last year it was sprink-o-line...on to new water fun... try it, you'll like it!

BEFORE: we have had this color in our dining room since we moved here 6 years ago...WOW! So we were in need of a change.. most of the colors in our house are gold, red, green, black and blue....so eggplant doesn't work for me, BUT............

AFTER: BLACK DOES! I know its a bit dramatic, but we like it-
We also have some outdoor changes but they aren't done yet, so they will come later:-)

A decorative door we found to hang in our family room....it is so beautiful in the mornings when the sun shines through it:-)

BEST BUDS: This year Owen and Griffin went to VBS at a local church and had the BEST time. Everyday they came home with new songs to sing and stories to share. I hope to share a video of one of the songs they learned. The music was awesome!! Jackson our next door neighbor also went and this was the last day of VBS fun. What CUTE Cowboys!!

So, what has your family done this summer so far???

Kum-ba-yah Tennessee style

2010-06-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

I was looking through some videos from last fall, and this one makes me laugh each time...hope you enjoy "worshiping with us"

Legend has it that this song was written by the Gullah people in southern Georgia, which translates...Come By Here, My Lord...but we have re-translated it to Come By Here Ya'll, tennessee style:-)

Chattown

2010-05-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

Every few months we make the extra effort to get out of town for the day. For us, it helps us balance family and full-time ministry, so this past Tuesday we went to Chattanooga for the day. We surprised the boys that morning with the news and it was an extra bonus to celebrate Owen finishing 1st grade. WOW!

We grabbed some lunch at one of our favorite places and then headed over the the Creative Discovery Museum. We have a pass that allows us to visit children's museums around the area, so we were thrilled to be using it. WE stayed there about 4 hours playing and discovering. Below you will "hopefully" see picture and videos from our day. A HUGE accomplishment is that during a museum science show our boys were volunteers. If you know anything about our boys, our oldest relishes the stage but this was a NEW venture for Griffin. He was a champ! So with a warm heart that only a mom can have, I was thrilled to see before my eyes a child that doesn't do crowds, talking, and anything public, have the courage to try something new.

Enjoy the music that Owen made too!

You will also see the boys pretending to be a window stage and then of course, roll down a super long hill. We had a blast that day and Owen choose a harmonica for his "Job Well Done" gift, but he said, "I want Griffin and Tate to have one too, cause it wouldn't be fair." Oh, the tenderheart of the big brother. My hope is that it never changes:-)

10th Anniversary Trip!!

2010-05-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

Chad and I went to Puerto Vallerta, Mexico for our 10th anniversary and it was amazing!! We had been looking forward to this get-away together for a few months now, and it was worth the wait. THe boys were WELL loved by my mom 1/2 the week and Chad's mom the other 1/2. I missed them and thought of them bunches, but they had such a fun week planned...so my thoughts were quickly settled.
We stayed in the home of a woman that lives in "PV" from Oct.-Mar, as do many of the 1/2 retirees that do the same thing. Her home was so quaint and artsy..I loved it. All the homes and restaurants in this area have windows w/out screens and most always have them open. We stayed in the "art district" so we were right around the corner from many galleries and local food. She had left us a packet of info of all her favorite rest. and places, so we did our best to try all things new. We had mango smoothies, black bean & corn tamales, fresh cranberry scones, limeades(at most meals) xcept when Chad had his Cokes:-), green drink (celery, spinach, parsley, pineapple- so yummy with breakfast), seafood burritos, and lots more seafood. PV is located in Banderas Bay in the mid-south part of Mexico's west coast. Fisherman we out super early everyday bringing in the fresh food. The local fare has alot of Spanish flare with "tapas", "crepas"and eating food I would eat for dinner...they eat for breakfast.
As for our time, we slept most days till mid-morning, read some, and then headed out for the day. Two days we spent reading on the beach and sipping drinks, one day we travelled north to Bucerius on a bus and I totally felt like I was on Amazing Races as we tried to figure out where to go . At one point after riding on a bus 15 minutes inland, we realized this was not our bus, and we jumped off and grabbed a taxi...crazy, but fun, another day we went south on the bus again to Boca. Once there, we got on a water taxi- ever heard of that? I hadn't. It took 30 minutes to get to Yelapa by boat and that is were I got to hold an iguana. It was amazingly soft! Chad and really enjoyed Yelapa because it was away from the city a bit. That is where we saw the waterfall and the young boys fishing. On Wed. night we did the "art walk" which all the local galleries open for showing and wine sipping. We had a blast, and we were very cultured by the art, people, food, and entertainment.
One of the many things I loved about PV was the nightlife on the "Malecon"-aka boardwalk. Families covered it everynight strolling together and spending time together. They totally value family and it was so evident! Later I will post videos of the Malecon entertainment.
Chad and I really savored our time together, but as I must admit, it took me a few days to get out of "mommy" mode. Once I forgot about eating 3 meals and snacks/day and the ordered bustle I keep at home I was able to really rest. And prasie the LORD my back held up with all the walking through town. We probably walked 3-4 miles a day, so I started my day with some stretching and I was so grateful to be able to do all we did.
So, cheers to 10 years!!! and we have already thought about a trip at 15 years, hmmm I think mtns:-) I told Chad we will want to soak up another trip then since we will be on the verge of teenagers;-)

You

2010-04-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

I recently have jumped into the Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado, so I'm sure you will see frequent quotes from my finds, but this one was a precious reminder to me:

Scan history for your replica; you won't find it. God tailor-made you. He "personally formed you and made each one" (Isa 43:7) No box of "back-up yous" sit in God's workshop. You aren't one of many bricks in the mason's pile or one of a dozen bolts in the mechanic's drawer. You are it! And if you AREN'T you, we don't get you. The world misses out.........God never called you to be anyone other than YOU. But he does call on you to be the best you you can be. The big question is, at your best, who are you?

LaLa's Joy

2010-03-22T18:29:00.001-07:00

Pink Paisley

Dress Up Dolls

Happy Flowers

Watermelon

Over the last few years, I have embarked on a new found Joy, sewing.

It is relaxing, creative, and fun to figure out different designs and such. I also am known by my nieces and nephews as Aunt LaLa, so hence the name LaLa's Joy.

I wanted to share some of my latest creations in hopes to stir the desire to shop for Easter/Spring or Summer. In the last few days I have contacted local retailers about selling them in their stores, but I wanted you..my friends and family to also know about this venture.

I'd love the opportunity to sew for ya!

(FYI: I have sizes 2T, 3T, and 4T - maybe a petite 5T available now)

Happy Sewing!!

14 inches of snow

2010-03-09T20:08:00.000-08:00

The boys and I had the fun of traveling to Banner Elk, NC to spend some time with my mom. We had a great time playing lots of SORRY and Chutes and Ladders in between our snow adventures and warming up in the pool. We could not beleive the amount of snow that landed that Wed. night...14 inches in 24 hours! Amazing! It was beautiful, dreamy, and oh so much fun! At one point walking to the pool, Tate lost his snowboot in the snow, and when he stepped, it covered his whole leg...crazy snow drifts. On Thursday we were suppose to head into Boone to meet up with my cousin and her parents. Well, that was postponed a day, but so worth the wait. Renee is due with her first child ...a little girl, in a few weeks, so it was wonderful to catch up with her and Uncle Marvin and Aunt Wanda. Thanks for trekking over to Makatos! After that, I traveled down memory lane and went onto the ASU campus. It was so fun showing the boys where mommy and daddy lived and hung out before we were married. Besdies that day out, we hung close to the cabin and spent tons of time at the pool and in the snow...best of both worlds:-)

Ski School 2010

2010-03-09T19:44:00.001-08:00

Here are some pictures from the boys day at Sugar Mtn, It was quite overcast that day, and snowed a little towards the end, but an overall success. They were ready for more after skiiing 10-4:30!

Giddy!

2010-02-22T14:11:00.001-08:00

Can I just tell you that I'm giddy today? The last few days I have been packing and getting things ready for a trip with the boys. I love packing, organizing, and checking off my lists as we prepare to travel. I also have been trying to pace myself while I will be driving solo with my boys, so at times, I get a little anxious with the thought of any emergency I may have with them. I know that is not form the Lord, and He quickly reminds me of the blessing of age. The age of Owen and Griffin's helpfulness and attentiveness to assisting their mama. So, I'm giddy! The excitement of spending time in a new place with my mom andt he boys will be fun.
Pls. pry for safe travel, ease with traffic, good health, safe ski adventures(hopefully) and a wonderful time in the mtns. of NC! AHH, home sweet home:-)

Owen's 7th

2010-02-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

Last Friday was such a wonderful day! We started off the day with Owen's breakfast choice of homemade waffles with powdered sugar and yes, chocolate syrup. It was a first, but I doubt a last for birthday treats. Then for lunch we planned a Chuck-E-Cheese party. I must say that I was eating crow on this one, because it was great! We were the only party at lunch and so we had the place, essentially to ourselves. Owen had asked 7 little buddies of his to join him, and they all were so polite and sweet to come. This party was enjoyable in some many ways; Owen made the guest list, made the invitations, picked out the cake, and choose his party to be his "present" from us, so Chad and I had fun taking all the excitement in. After an afternoon of playing outside once we were home, Owen requested white bean chili for dinner. So, he totally enjoyed being king of the day!

Lord, thank you for blessing us with Owen and all the uniqueness that comes along with him. He is a wonderful delight in our home and has such a tender heart towards you. I know you have created him to glorify You, and my prayer is that with every growing decision he would honor you with his heart, words, and deeds.

Tate Funnies

2010-01-25T21:28:00.001-08:00

Ok, so I have to share these two moments we had with Tate. They definitely went into our laugh jar today, but I wanted to give you a little laugh too.

#1
He was looking over Griffin's scrapbook that I had been working on, and he saw a very pregnant picture of me. So, he asked, "where's Tate?" so I pointed to my belly in the picture and said, there you are. He said," Did you eat me?"

#2
Chad was driving home from lunch and I was reading an article to the boys about Winter Olympic Hopefuls. When I got to talking about a speed skater, Apollo Ohnu, Tate had his own thoughts. Right as I finished saying "Ohnu," he piped up and said, "Dos, Tres, Cuatro, Cinco" Chad and I busted out laughing! And then Griffin said, "I can play uno." Fun times with the fellas!

Hope I made you smile today!

A connection and a conversation

2010-01-23T11:20:00.000-08:00

Owen: Mom, it's really easy to understand.
Mom: what are you talking about?
Owen: well, Yoda is like God, you and Dad are like Anakin, and we are Padawans. You know, God is our master and Yoda is the Jedi Master, and Anakin is training the padawans about being a Jedi like you teach us about God.
Mom: you are right.
Chad: well then who is DarthVader?
Owen: Dad, Satan of course.

Needless to say, I was giggling with his connection(b/c I am not into sci-fi) and blown away at the same time. as with all analogies, they break down at some point, but I was totally impressed with his discovery.

So, moms, had I rushed us out the door this morning, I would have missed this conversation. Let's challenge each other to hear our children more, because when we are honest, they teach us so much more:-0

December Cheer

2009-12-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

Our month has been full of "non-traditional" school stuff. The pictures below will only include some of our winter fun, but I'll share the highlights first:

- wrapped up Owen's school with scoring a 100 on his semester review in math! Way to go o-man!
- Tate gave us the gift of potty training...yippee!!!!
- hosted our 2nd Vinson Boys' Ornament Exchange with lots of friends (33 kids, 12 moms)
- baking cookies for BIble study teachers and local firemen...this was our 3rd yr going
- driving around to see the holiday lights
- went to the Murfreesboro Parade with friends
- Owen went with his scouts to a local potter and made his own dish...video below...it's awesome!
- attending the FSM Cowboy Christmas Party and doing some square dancing and learning poker..thks Jerry!
- Chad starting his doctorate program
- hosting my mom a few days before Christmas and treating her to ICE..an amazing ice sculpting that depicts the Charlie Brown Christmas Story...it was all of 9 degrees in this place- crazy cold!!
- enjoyed the slowness of our Christmas morning in our own home, although we missed seeing family
- the boys loving hot chocolate with their Christmas breakfast
- watching lots of holiday movie specials
- the Sunday after Christmas we loved on others by taking candy canes to 2 local assisted living homes and gave lots of big hugs and smiles to the residents. I'm sure this is something we will continue as a family, because the boys really enjoyed seeing their faces light up when they were handed a treat.

Owen on the ice slide

"Tate our little politician" - shaking hands, huggin' and wishing meeeerrrrrrrry Christmas-

Nature's Beauty

2009-12-12T19:47:00.001-08:00

About a month ago, our family took a day trip to enjoy the beautiful nature in TN. We found this natural bridge about an hour from us which was amazing. We hiked two short trails that day and then had lunch at a local joint. It was a great way to spend Daddy's day off.

My profile

2009-12-12T19:33:00.000-08:00

Ok, so tonight I was trying to update my page a little bit. Well, it had been a while since I had changed my profile, so while Chad was sitting near I thought I'd get his version of my profile.

"a loyal, sensitive, compassionate friend, wife and momma who is resilient to adversity, observant to the needs of others, loves life, outgoing, outspoken, and a lot like Tate (a.k.a snuggly) ...."

Sweet....

Community Group Dinner

2009-12-12T18:36:00.001-08:00

THis past Wednesday we had the fun of hosting of CG's Christmas dinner. We had 14 adults and 10 children and a bunch of food. It was so great to watch these children play, eat and love on one another. We were all so surprised how well they all did together...they actually all sat and ate together...grazed some...and then back for dessert. All the while, the girls had one table and the fellas another. I'm so grateful for my small group and the sweet things we get to do together.
This fall we helped a new family at church move to a new home and this week we all had the privilege to go shopping for a family that we adopted for Christmas. We not only got them Christmas but were able to treat them to lunch and pay their bills. I don't know about ya'll, but there is something special that happens in your heart when you give to someone w/out anything in return...a stirring of pure generosity. I wish I was like that all the time, but if I was honest...I'm not.

Vinson/Parker Thanksgiving

2009-12-05T18:54:00.000-08:00

This year, Poppy, Yaya, Aunt Chel-belle, Uncle D, Aunt Jenna and Isabella came to our house for Thanksgiving. We had such a fun and cozy :-) time playing monkey in the middle, biking, watching Derek enjoy the wii ( we really think he was trying to burn off all he had eaten since he boxed by himself for an hour or more), sewing with Jen, sharing Thanksgiving with the Pattons, and celebrating Christmas early. My favorite part was just having everyone around in enjoying the hub-bub of 11 in one house for a few days. FYI, the little girl in the above picture is our niece sitting with the boys. Here are some snapshots of our fun!
Tate's surprise

Griffin's surprise

Owen's surprise

Poppy and Tate

Josh P. (home from Navy) and Tate

Jeff Patton and Isabella

Ferguson Thanksgiving/Christmas in Gatlinburg, TN

2009-12-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of the 150+ pictures taken in 4 days of fun. My mom and brother's family traveled west to Gatlinburg,TN to spend some much needed time together. We stayed in a wonderful facility that had a fun playground, putt-putt golf, and indoor and outdoor pool. And needless-to-say, that is where we spent most of our time together. We had a blast! The boys and Hallsey all faired the outdoor pool, while the rest of us just enjoyed the hottubs :-) We also went biking one morning and then hiking in the Smokies another day. The weekend couldn't have been more wonderful to be outside. We had two condos for the 11 of us, so space and "down time" was a must with these nonstop cousins.

Halloween 09

2009-11-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

Breakfast helper
"Pumpkin" - actually butternut squash muffins w/ pumpkin seeds topping
2 transformers and a pirate
Cutest pirate costume!

Our morning started with "pumpkin" muffins that I actually used smashed butternut squash and were topped with cinnamon/sugar crushed pumpkin seeds and a glass of milk. yummy! They were so moist and delicious that I got a round of thumbs up.
The costumes above were taken on Thursday when we went to the Fall Festival at the YMCA, but Griffin changed his mind to be the red power ranger on Saturday night. AND the pirate costume was a garage sale find, and he loved saying, "ARGHHHH"

Skeleton Studies

2009-11-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Sample of Owen's labels on his skeleton
Painting on "glow-in-the-dark" paint
the boys' new best friends
So with the seasonal fun, we decided to make a science, math, and writing activity consume the better half of one afternoon naptime. A local homeschool mom shared the idea to measure out the major body parts of the boys and recreate a skeleton of themselves. So we, measured the head (both ways), spine, width of shoulders, hip width, shoulder to elbow, elbow to hand, thigh, knee to foot, and then foot. I had previously cut out 1" strips to use as "bones", so then we just cut accordingly for each measure. Owen and Griffin labeled their bones (yes, Griffin labeled all his bones as long as there was a model) and then we stapled, painted and then hung the finished products. A great afternoon activity this time of year!

Back in Action

2009-10-26T19:09:00.001-07:00

Well, it has been almost a month since I have really mentally thought about meals for my family. I had surgery a month ago and with my mom here and then gracious meals from friends, I have been grateful to receive their love through food. (the boys have enjoyed it also)
So, I'm back...trying to create meals with color, creativity, and fun, which isn't always easy for me. In Owen's school work and scout requirements we studied the new food pyramid, and meals have brought on a new discussion. They all want to know which is the grain, veggie, fruit, bean, and especially fat or sweet on their plate and are quick to let me know if they are lacking something.
So there's my first meal back....Dinosaur Kale sauteed with almonds, Veggie Stir-fry with rice, and Almond crusted Chicken with homemade honey-mustard sauce....it was a good night back!

Pumpkin Time

2009-10-26T18:57:00.001-07:00

This was an impromptu trip to the patch last week. We had a playdate with friend and decided at the last minute to go to the patch. We played at a local park and then went as so as it opened, so we tried to beat the crowd. The boys had a blast on the tire swing, corn crib (tate is in it), the corn maze, hay bales, animals, and picking the perfect pumpkin.

My new FAVORITE 5 year old

2009-10-15T20:46:00.001-07:00

Here are the many faces of Griffin on his BIG day, October 5th!!!

This face of happiness is a glimpse into my world of fun
Are you scared of this knight? He's pretty serious about it...
One of the many faces of daily characters that come to our home
He honestly made 8 out 10 at this goal...my little baller!
A rare picture moment with my little man
Mom with the boys before Griffin's birthday dinner

When the boys turn 5 we let them choose either a party with friends or a family outing to celebrate their birthday. This year, Griffin wanted to go to Glo-Galaxy. like his brother did this year. We had a great time! Especially fun for me because it was my first time out of the house after a week of recovery. I was moving slow, but so glad to be there. Physically and emotionally present to celebrate my new favorite 5 year old. We had a great time at Pie in the Sky Pizza for dinner. The kids got some dough to play with while their food was cooking, and it was a great way to pass the time. We then went to Glo Galaxy, which is a glow-in-the-dark bounce house and putt-putt place. (I have some fun pictures of the other boys I'll add later.)

Dear Jesus, Thank you for this precious child you have given to us for a short while. My we honor you in molding his gifts and personality to honor and love you to the fullest. Guide Chad and me as we instruct, shepherd, love, and correct him. Thank you Lord for healing his body over the past year, and keep us attentive to his growing needs. Lord, most of all, thank you for blessing us with his life 5 years ago.

Valley of Baca

2009-10-13T13:07:00.000-07:00

A dear friend shared the book, Feathers From My Nest by Beth Moore, with me and I have really enjoyed reading her thoughts on different seasons in her life..In the most recent reading, she is referring to Psalm 84:

" Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
who have set their hearts on pilgimage.
As they pass through the Valley of Baca
they make it a place of springs;
the autumn rains also cover it with pools.
They go from strength to strength,
till each appears before God in Zion....
O lord Almighty,
blessed is the man who trusts in you. (vv5-7, 12)

The word baca means one of tears or weeping. In many ways this Psalm has been my heart the last month. I have been in the Valley of Baca, but thank the Lord he hasn't kept me there. I can honestly say that He has allowed "springs" to rise up in my heart and fill me with peace, joy, and rest. Yes,I have had moments of being back in the valley, I have just tried to walk through them.

What Beth shares in her book is so true...

For every challenge,there is strength and if we're willing to receive it, something amazing can happen. Our Valley of Baca can become "a place of springs." Our seasons of tears can become the source of our deepest wellsprings of personal revival. In fact, I'm hard pressed to remember many times my personal seasons of renewal did not spring from a valley of tears. I'm so grateful to love and serve a GOd who offers favor to every pilgrimi passng through Baca. Becasue God is Faithful, He ever extends to us "strength for today and a bright hope for tomorrow."

I already see His hand and a sweet opportunity with other moms who have had a loss through pregnancy. So what Satan intended for evil, God WILL use for good, and it's just humbling to be part of it. :-)

To my Sons

2009-09-20T20:38:00.001-07:00

May they have the faith of Abraham,
May they have the boldness of Paul,
May they have a heart like David, always seeking God.
May they have the wisdom of Salomon,
May they have the patience of Job,
May they be a leader like Joshua, always full of hope.
May they have the courage of Daniel,
May they have the love of John,
May they know Your voice like Samuel and always obey God .

Father God, bless my sons, May they grow to be men of God.

(found on a friend of a friend's blog)

Joy Remembered

2009-09-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have dreamt of this post and tried over and over to put my words together for this one, but it has been hard. I want to share our journey over the last few weeks, but the words just don't seem to say what my heart has experienced.

On August 26th, Chad and I found out that we were going to welcome baby #4 into our world on April 29th, 2010. (our 10th anniversary:-)) We were filled with shock, fear, and joy. "Choose to trust Me" and "Be Joyfully Dependent" was all I heard my Father say. Immediately my mind was filled with thoughts, dreams, and hopes of this little one.... their name, what they would look like, and how they would fit into the rhythm of our family.

One short week later, Sept. 2, fear shot through my soul as I started to experience some symptoms of complications. I once again was reminded by the Lord to "Choose to Trust" and "Be Joyfully Dependent." Man that is difficult when you are faced with an uncertain ultrasound and three different blood drawings within the next week.

On the Saturday of Labor Day, my body started the beginnings of a miscarriage. My blood levels had continued to rise until then, so for us, that day marks the beginning of the end. Even though my heart and soul were filled with amazing grief, the Lord allowed me to joyfully celebrate Tate's 3rd birthday. Later that day, Chad encouraged me to spend some time alone. My goodness, I'm so thankful for a husband that knows me so well. I spent the night at a hotel and was able to journal all my thoughts and rested without interruption. It really prepared me for the days ahead. To him I am so grateful!

So as our family joyfully welcomed the hope of a little one into our home, only weeks later, we are learning to be ok with the joyful reunion we will have with this precious one in Heaven.

As today would mark my dad's 66th birthday, I can rest in knowing that they are together.

Joyfully Grateful and Grieving Joy

Tate and "Piderman"

2009-09-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

On Labor Day, Tate's birthday, we spent some great time with some of his buddies. This year we went to a local park that is a favorite hangout of our family. It is so hard to believe that he is already 3, wow time flies. He is such a source of laughter and "funness" in our home. He definately is opinionated and can stand on his own with his older brothers, but they are also the apple of his eye. He totally adores "owey" and "iffin". As I watched them play together the other day, I was so grateful for siblings; for my boys to have siblings to romp and roam with, laugh with , and grow with.

Round Here

2009-09-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

Griffin proud of his "ghee" (don't think that's how it's spelled, but it's what he's wearing) 1st day of class

Karate Kid in action...gotta love it...

We could not be more excited to find something that Owen is passionate about. CUB SCOUTS! Everything else was a take-it-or-leave-it thing, but he is already talking about doing this till he gets his Eagle...man with a mission

A wonderful night to enjoy my hubby!!! :-)

A night with the Titans...local NFL team (for you foreigners) a most timely evening-away for us

Aren't they so cute!!! much cuter here than in a chicken coop

Griffin learning about feeding the chicks...at this age they get all the food they want

Baby chicks: egg laying ones and chicks to grow out to eat

Needed Encouragement

2009-09-05T17:03:00.001-07:00

This week has been a hard week emotionally and physically for me and I'm so thankful to have been encouraged a bit by these words written from my favorite devotional book, Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young.

I am your best friend, as well as your King. Walk hand in hand with Me through your life. Together we will face whatever each day brings: pleasures, hardships, adventures, disappointments. Nothing is wasted when it is shared with Me. I can bring beauty out of ashes of lost dreams. I can glean Joy out of sorrow, Peace out of adversity. Only a friend who is also the King of kings could accomplish this divine alchemy. There is no other like Me!
The friendship I offer you is practical and down-to-earth, yet it is saturated with heavenly Glory. Living in My Presence means living in two realms simultaneously: the visible world and unseen, eternal reality. I have equipped you to stay conscious of Me while walking along dusty, earthbound paths.

Precious Moments

2009-08-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

Today our family and church body enjoyed the fellowship of time with each other at a local park. With that came, good food, inflatables for the kiddos and a baptismal time for new professed believers. One of Griffin's best bud's parents were baptized, and that started a precious conversation with Griffin.

Griffin = When can I too be put under the water like Ms. Nikki and Mr. Mike?
Mom= Well buddy, when you ask Jesus to come into your heart and take away your yucky sin, then he can live there and help you make good choices."
Griffin= I want to do that.
Mom=OK buddy, let's pray and ask Jesus to take away your sin and live in your heart
Griffin= OK

This truly is a sacred moment in our family! True, I don't know how much his little mind can grasp, but he has grasped enough to know he has sin and only Jesus can take it away.

On a funny note, Owen was talking (surprise, surprise) during our whole prayer, and then finally I asked him what he wanted and he said, "Mom, you need to show Griffin the Easter Eggs book about how we are on one side and God is on the other and a cross is the bridge for us to get to God. You need to read him that book tomorrow, Mom." You are right Owen- yeah, that's the book we read when I asked Jesus into my heart......

Precious moments for this proud mama!!

Griffin 2 wheelin'

2009-08-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

A pretty big mile-marker in our home this morning. Griffin asked us to take off his training wheels on his little bike. Now, he usually doesn't ride his bike often b/c his scooter takes first seat, but he was motivated. Determination and perseverance is a gift of Griffin's, and today it proved true. This is about the 3rd video we made b/c he kept going. As I write, Chad has taken Owen and Griffin on the greenway trail to ride....per Grif's request! My little man #2 is growing up :-(

Spontaneous

2009-08-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

if you know me well, then you are aware of my inability to be spontaneous. If it is not on our home calendar of events, then it won't likely happen.... even including the house cleaning, which is USUALLY Friday. But not TODAY! I'm learning to embrace spontaneity and liking it. Yesterday was an overcast day with cooler weather which just screamed at me during breakfast...ZOO DAY. We haven't enjoyed it much this summer because of the heat, but today was great. Hardly anyone was there and the boys had a blast. We ended our fun with more Mommy spontaneity with the video below. I chuckled as mom's passed by saying, "_____, you can't do that b/c we don't have a change of clothes." Neither did we, but does it REALLY matter if you are just going home afterwards.

Among Sisters

2009-08-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

We are all have many roles; wives, mothers, care givers, homemakers, career women, daughters, sisters, mentors, ministers, teachers, coaches, and most importantly, daughters of the King. Our Heavenly Father. That defines us and we are loved.

This weekend these sisters in ministry had the opportunity to be loved on by our husbands and church body. What a humbling experience for us all...thank you so much FBC and our precious hubbies that held down the fort. We drank lots of coffee, cried, laughed, ate, rested, slept, and had a whole bunch of giggles and I am so thankful to work along side some AMAZING women!

Girlie Fun!

2009-08-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

Over the last few weeks I have had this desire to make more clothes, but this time it was for our little 1 year old niece, Isabella-Kate. I borrowed a pattern for a pillowcase dress from a friend, and then just went to town! Can I just tell you how much fun it is to pick out girlie fabrics and "big bow" stuff!!! After making my niece two dresses, that I regret not getting pictures of, a friend asked if I'd make her one. This is for a 24 month old, but made with a double hem so them can get at least 2-3 years out of it. I know I share so much boy stuff, I just had to share this joy!

School's In Session

2009-08-23T18:39:00.001-07:00

"School In a Box"
We started school almost 4 weeks ago and it has just flown! I chose to ease the boys back into it, and to be honest, to ease myself into it also:-) Each day looks a little different with two at my feet but overall we have a workable routine. Although Owen is doing seat work in the mornings and the others are at "stations" I've made time for us to do some lighthearted learning together.This is a picture of an activity that I can do with all three fellas, and challenge them at their ability at the same time. It is a box of random nick-nacks from our home, and by asking different questions, such as, "Tate, can you find me 5 yellow things....Griffin, can you find me 3 things that are circles....Owen, can you find me 5 things that are 2 syllables?" then we are all able to celebrate each person's pile. For those of you, that have pre-schoolers at your feet, this is a fabulous way to teach different concepts, such as math, pre-reading, grammar, and even rhythm.

The boys hard at work painting the solar system onto their shirts. For some reason, Griffin has been fascinated with drawing Earth, rockets, and astroids, so we decided to study the planets a little and then create.

July Fun in the Sun

2009-08-04T18:20:00.001-07:00

Much of July was spent outside enjoying summer since school was quickly approaching, and here are a few shots of the fun in the sun! I really have just savored this summer with the fellas. They are all so differently independent, but all the while still needing mama. I really just tried to remind myself that this was the ONLY summer I have with Owen 6, Griffin 4, and Tate 2, and I feel that I have done just that. It sounds so simple but I have those thoughts of "when they are ____ they can do this alone" and my goal was to not wish any time or experience with them away, and I'm so thankful that I did. So I enjoyed the holding onto me at the pool as I about drown with 3 little bodies trying to dunk me- well, not really but you get a good picture:-)

Wow it's cccccoooollllddddd!

A new and improved slip-n-slide

What a funtastic face!!!

"Road to My Roots"

2009-08-04T18:13:00.000-07:00

Well, today is Grandma JO's ..... birthday so I am honoring her request of showing her the pickles I made, that she helped me pick, (well, we actually picked cucumbers but you know) and also I picture of my hair almost as blonde as hers. On my "road to my roots" this is another stop along the way...

So, here you go!

The Finished Prduct

2009-07-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

Ta-Da! I made this outfit back in June for Tate, but didn't feel like it was complete since the front was bare. I tossed around the idea of monogramming his initial or even stitching a whimsical "T", but I just "feeling" it. I wanted something more "playful." So, after talking to two girlfriends that stitch...I took the plunge. The turtle hopefully ties in with the buttons. Well, here's to more stitching...

VBS

2009-07-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

This last week was a special treat in are family. A treat for all, even mommy! All three of the boys had the privilege to attend a local Vacation Bible School. This church did a fabulous job teaching the boys about God's love, forgiveness, protection, provision, and (in Owen's words) "God doesn't lead us into temptation- Satan does." They used the Lord's Prayer as the guide and spent a day on each truth. as you can see in the pictures, the theme for the week was a Jungle Safari, so they brought home handmade jungle crafts each day.
It was a great treat for mommy also, because I had 3 hours each day alone. This was such a blessing as I spent most days doing some school prep for the boys. I was truly thankful, bc I was planning on paying for a babysitter for 2 full days of prep time, and this opportunity fell in my lap. I was so grateful that the boys were learning something of value while I was working. Isn't God just perfect! We are starting school in a couple weeks, so I was able to read, plan, reorganize, and spend time alone preparing my heart for teaching. I'm really excited about this school year and am feeling more prepared as a mom to start it of well.

Slip-n-slide

2009-07-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today after going to the library the boys were totally ready to make their own slip-n-slide. So, drumroll please......

A Choice

2009-07-07T18:38:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my back started to give me fits, which usually leads to a "locked up back." I tried to make the minor adjustments in my routine, but to no avail. So on Monday morning I woke up to numbness down my leg. Well, my chiropractor is on vacation this week, but I got into a very gracious doctor. So, that appt filled yesterday morning, and I came home to ice my back while the boys were asleep. I say all that to share what led me to slow down enough to open a new book I recently purchased. The Mom Walk by Sally Clarkson. I just have grown to love her writings, and this is what I read while laying on the floor.

I realize that one of the roles God wants me to play in my children's lives is a conductor of joy, happiness, and celebration.......This doesn't mean I won't have difficulties and times of depression. But I do have choices I can make as a mom that will determine the environment of my home. When I choose to notice, everyday, the beauty of my children instead of the duties my children bring my way, I am worshipping God. WHen I choose to notice the gorgeous sunsets and the spring flowers in the midst of busy days, I am teaching my children to dance, so to speak, through their days. When I choose to beleive in the goodness of God and verbalize my love for HIm, and make an effort to provide delightful food, thoughtful cards, and moments of fun, I am showing my children a God they will be willing to serve - a God who delights in filling their deep desires for intimacy, happiness, purpose and beauty.

As I laid there, I was drawn to think, ok Lord, how can I do that RIGHT now with my back out, well, the chapter continued with:

There will always be things that could potentially threaten to overwhlem us. We have to make a choice to believe in God's ability to provide and so free us to celebrate. We must trust HIm to take us into His generous provision or we will allow life to demoralize us and we give our children instead a model and attitude of complaining and grumbling.

It was His perfect timing to encourage and literally pull me off the floor...after I was smacked in the face:-) but nonetheless, He gave me the strength to celebrate yesterday and today, and for that I'm grateful.

July 4th

2009-07-07T18:08:00.001-07:00

The Backyard Buddies

Some good 'ole waterballoon fun on the 4th with neighbors...way to go Tate!

Griffin working on writing Owen's name

Owen writing his name with a sparkler

Tate and his buddy Reid (before the 4th)

Our little family had a great 4th together. We originally had nothing planned, but to spend time at the pool together. As we sat down for Friday night movie night, some friends called for us to join them for a pre-fourth firework and sparkler fun. It was so fun to be up late watching their eyes light up with joy. The next day we had lots of quality time at the pool and then had our neighbors and a single friend over for dinner. Owen was so excited to have made all the water balloons for the evening. He was such the host as he helped fill the water table, balloons and helped move furniture. What a servant heart! Well, after 3 late nights, this crew has been hittin' the bed a little early this week.

Myrtle Beach '09

2009-07-01T20:50:00.000-07:00

Chad and I had a dreamy week with our boys at the beach. IT was just the 5 of us, so it was precious time reconnecting with daddy after his trip to Mexico. The timing was perfect because it provided great down time as a family. The simplicity of playing in the sand, jumping waves, packing bag lunches, building dribble castles, fixing dinners in, throwing each other in the pool, afternoons naps for all, shell searching, sandwriting, putt-putting, and yes, the matching outfit pictures. I know, for me that is one thing I had fun with this year, because I attempted to make the outfits for all so that was a HUGE feat.

Poppy's House

2009-07-01T19:08:00.001-07:00

During this part of our trip, we celebrated Aunt Chelsea's graduation and 18th birthday! She is a beautiful young woman with a very gifted art talent. Her art pieces are amazing, and so she is going to continue her talent into college. Way to go Aunt Chel-Bel! As you can see, Tate loved him some Isabella while we were there. I think he loved the fact that she was smaller, but now mobile and so much fun.

Fun, Sun, and Friendships

2009-06-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

We have had a wonderful time so far visiting Ivey, playing in water, learning how to swing and "pump" solo, having lots of outside exploring time, swinging on the front porch, listening to some great local music, playing with all the animals, and spending precious time with friends. At the moment I can't share pictures, so hop over to Anna's blog and see for yourself the joy of today!

May '09 Highlights

2009-05-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

Owen fixing breakfast for everyone on his last day of school; way to go..we are proud of you!

YIPPEE!!! Owen is finished with school, summertime here we come!!

Riverwalk in Chattanooga: boys + water = fun times

The fellas at the Aquarium in Chattanooga

Tada: a new do

Water fun with Spencer

On to blackberry jam.....

Tate's wonderful card including balls and balloons

Breakfast from Griffin, and then toast and jelly from Owen later - FULL belly!

Fred and Lois

2009-05-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

While travelin'back to TX for the summer we get to soak up some wonderful time with my "1st year" mentor teacher, Lois and her hubby, Fred. We seriously spent most of it the front yard playing baseball. You can tell by the pictures that they are experienced grandparents. They also got to join us at church and then we went to see their home. Their own children call they homeless, so we did too :-) The boys loved seeing inside their home and playing with their dogs. Thanks Lois and Fred for making the time and effort to come visit! You are the best!!!

Jammin'

2009-05-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

My little helper loves to turn on the vita-mix, sometimes without the top :-D

This past Tuesday we went to the farm to pick up strawberries. The best part was they were already picked! Yes I know that sounds weird to some, but I decided this year that I would make jam with these and then the ones the boys pick at a different farm we would eat on. Now, the boys can have there fun and exploration without me making sure we have enough berries to make jam to get us through the winter. Yes, we made 86oz. of jam yesterday, and I'm pretty sure we will have plenty:-) It was great this morning to wake up to, "Mommy, can we please have some strawberry jam with toast." We did and it was even better than last years!

When You Thought I Wasn't Looking

2009-05-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my
first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately
wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a
stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind
to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my
favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little
things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a
prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always
talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a
meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I
learned that we all have to help take care of each
other.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of
your time and money to help people who had nothing,
and I learned that those who have something should
give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care
of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have
to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you
handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't
feel good, and I learned that I would have to be
responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come
from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things
hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw that you
cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of
life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and
productive person when I grow up..

When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and
wanted to say,'Thanks for all the things I saw when
you thought I wasn't looking.'

Egg Hunt at the Nashville Zoo

2009-04-30T19:39:00.001-07:00

Where in the world did April go?

2009-04-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

My goodness, I can't believe its the last day of April! I feel like I blinked and it was over...so I will try to catch you up to speed on it with the highlights for our family.

Good Friday: The boys and I enjoyed eating lunch in our laundry room while we waited out the tragic tornado. I mean the Lord totally looked out after us despite my clueless-self. I called my next door neighbor about 12:25 and she said, "Laurie, we are under a tornado warning..I have my boys in laundry room!...oh, I guess I should do the same :-)" So, we gathered our lunch and I grabbed some books for the adventure.

Saturday: Our family spent the day up at the Nashville Zoo celebrating with an Easter Egg Hunt. Many kuddos to the zoo!!!! They have the age group hunts down to a science and it went so smoothly. Pictures to follow...

Easter Sunday: Had a fabulous lunch with church friends that also don't have family close. Yum-Yum!

My birthday: the boys were so sweet...that morning Owen wanted to fix my breakfast and then I got to pick lunch, and of course I chose Goodness Gracious. It's was fun to take the boys to this "girlie" place, because they were such little men. Now, the first few minutes they weren't real sure about this new place, but they did great. Then, Chad had planned for a sitter that night and we had some time together out.

Camping/Movie night: Chad took a few guys from the youth group camping last Friday night. They had fun getting lost on the way back, but none-the-less, got back a few hours late. I on the other hand took advantage of a girl night and had a few girls come over to watch a movie.

Travellin' Texans: Last weekend, sweet retired friends from Texas came in for a visit. I taught with Lois my first 2 years and then she retired to start this travellin' journey. She and her husband Fred own a RV and travel around seeing friends and family. They actually started working at Disney in the winter which has been super fun for them. They came and spent 2 days with us on their way back to TX. They last saw us when Owen was 1, so they got to meet Griffin and Tate. The boys immediately feel in love with them. Owen was really trying to understand why they too couldn't be his grandparents. Fred took pictures of the boys on the trampoline, played and pitched baseball two nights in a row, and treated us to a tour of their 250 sq.ft home and their 2 puppies.

Our 9th anniversary: Yippee! I hope to go out tonight, since yesterday was terribly full.

Griffin's latest appt: Dr. Bernui is really encouraged with Grif's growth, development, and progress. We still have metal toxicity that we are going to handle more aggressively, but overall, it was an encouraging visit.

Privileged

2009-04-04T19:48:00.000-07:00

A week ago, Chad and I had the privilege to take 20 students to Asheville, NC for a week of "labor of love." It is so easy to go through life and not take a moment to reflect or remember, and this trip was a perfect time for me to do it. Here is my list of privileges that God has given me, and it's my responsibility to remember them;
-family that loves my boys
-a reliable car to get us to and fro
-doctors to know my son's needs/$ to pay for it
-fresh food, packaged food-just food-no need to be snobby about it:-)
-heat in my home
-neighbors that look out after us
-a matteress and box springs
-windows that open and close
-clean carpet
-floors with NO holes
-a shower
-kitchen cabinets-not ones that are rusted out
-a laundry room with washer and dryer vs. them being in the kitchen
-someone who cares to listen when i'm hurt
-a home where mom and dad love each other
-a home where I could be a child
-insurance
-the time to get out of my mommy routine and think and love on somebody I've never met

Thank you Jesus for letting me be the hands and feet for our sweet new friend in Asheville. May he know Your love and mercy when he is lonely and sad. Heal his heart and thank you for allowing us to be You for him.

Email Change

2009-03-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm a little overwhelmed with the thought of entering a ton of email addresses into my new account, so I need your help. If you email and want to keep up that way, pls. save this change.

laurievinson@att.net

I have had this email for about 5 years and today it died without any warning. So the thought of remembering who needs it is crazy. You know all those people that want it for security purposes, billing companies, and most importantly, the people I correspond with; YOU!:-)

A Servant's Heart at 6

2009-03-05T19:17:00.000-08:00

My heart is so filled with thankfulness tonight as I share the events of our evening. This morning Griffin was running a temperature and not feeling well. As the day went on he nestled himself into the couch to watch Prince Caspian, and that's when it all unfolded. Poor little guy got sick sitting next to Owen and Owen immediately got up, found me and yelled to come quick. While I was tending to Griffin, Owen got the trashcan and towel. The night went on and once again Owen served his brother with love. He ran got another towel, a cup to use in the bathtub, some water, and read Griffin a story while I went to wash Ellie. When I came back up stairs, Owen wanted to know when Ellie would be dry. So in the meantime, Owen got Griffin's puppy to sleep with until Ellie was dry. Lastly, Owen came over to where I was rubbing Grif's back and joined in. He was SO tender towards his brother. He has great love and care for him. And for that, my heart is proud.

Movin' On Up

2009-03-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

Just writing that title reminds me of "The Jeffersons" sit-com that I remember watching occassionally when I was little. No we aren't watching reruns of it now, but in one room of the house, we are "movin on up."
We recently bunked Owen and Griffin's bed and rearranged the room a bit. This was a rite of passage to "6" for Owen. He has been looking forward to it and they both have loved the idea of their own space within the bed. We would at some point like to bunk them all together in a room, but that will need to wait. I'm not quite ready to manage them all together. So, cheers to being "6"!

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

2009-03-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

C-caring
H-honest
A-affirming
D-devoted

M-madly in love with him
I-independent
C-compassionate
H-humble
A-amazing daddy
E-energetic
L-loving

V-visionary
I-introverted
N-noncook :-)
S-silly
O-only one for me
N-never gives up

Happy Birthday Daddy!! We love you...you are the best daddy!!

March 1st Snow- crazy!!!

2009-03-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning we woke up to a 3-4 inch blanket of snow...What a wonderful surprise to our Sunday. We just loved laying low by playing in the snow, making homemade hot cocoa, watching Wall-E, and resting. We started making a little Tate snowman, which you see in the picture, but I have to share the cutest part. When I asked Tate to stand by the snowman, he grabbed his hand/branch to take the picture! He was so proud of his new friend, then when Daddy got outside, we worked on the Daddy snowman. I really think it ended up being close to 5 feet. Craziness! Daddy and I enjoyed reminiscing of our college days with tons of snow. Check out our Frosty

Griffin's one minute snow appearance...he prefered the warmth

Owen's snow-angel

Velveteen Rabbit

2009-03-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday the boys and I took a field trip to see the Velveteen Rabbit at a local Arts Center. The day before and of we read the story so we could compare the similarities and differences of the book and play. We had a blast being able to get pictures by the stage, sit in the second row, and then meet the cast afterwards. I just love these experiences with them..

Owen's birthday

2009-03-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

We had such a full and fun time with Owen's birthday this year. Once again he chose to celebrate with family versus a big 'ol party, so....we went to Glow Galaxy and then on to P.F.Changs for dinner. Glow Galaxy is a glow in the dark bounce house and putt-putt place. At P.F. Changs it was great ordering from the gluten-free menu for our family. Later that week we went to Mellow Mushroom with 2 of his best buds and reserved the bus- an actual bus sits in the restuarant and is a great spot for children to be themselves. Here are some snapshots of our fun...

2009-02-18T13:40:00.000-08:00

have dones...

here is a list i saw on a friend's blog of things she has done in her life thus far. i thought it was interesting so here's my list of have dones... (if it is bold then i have done it)

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band (does an orchestra count?)
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoningOK does water poisoning count?
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon I'm thinking a 5K is a good start?
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud who hasn't that has boys?
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Gotten flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt...kinda of
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car...ok, given a new one...i didn't but it
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

Lord, i pray that in every adventure you allow me to have i might be evermore in awe of you! thank you for what has been and what is to come.

Gracie Butler Baker

2009-02-08T18:10:00.000-08:00

Some of our friends, and former youth leaders, Benji and Rebekah Baker, gave birth to a beautiful little girl. The day she entered this world she met Jesus face to face. Please pray for the family that longs to hold her, touch her little face, snuggle with her and just look at her. Our hearts are so heavy for their family and we just ask you to cover them in your prayers. Please take a moment to meet Gracie and be blessed.

Your thoughts????

2009-01-22T15:25:00.000-08:00

In A Mother Just Like You I came across this statement....what do you think?

"Family planning is the mother of abortion. A generation had to be indoctrinated in the ideal of planning children around personal convenience before abortion could become popular. We Christians raise an outcry against abortion today, and rightly so. But the reason we have to fight those battles today is because we lost them thirty years ago. Once couples began to look upon children as creatures of their own making,who they could plan into their lives as they chose or not, all reverence for human life was lost. Children as God's gift whom we humbly receive are one thing: children as articles of our own manufacturing are another. You can do anything you like with what you yourself have made."

NC Holiday Tour

2009-01-20T18:43:00.001-08:00

We just loved our visit with family! It was as restful as it could be seeing over 50+ people in 11 days. We felt that our time with each family was so sweet and we made tons of memories. The pictures don't really do our trip justice, because there are so many things that I didn't get pictures of.

We got to see Boompa and Mimi Withrow that came in from Norman,OK. We spent much of our seminary holidays with them since they were the closest family. It was great to see them again and see Keely, Ted, and their children.

Isabella Kate was such a precious highlight too. Tate absolutely just ate her up with a spoon. All he wanted to do was sit in the floor with his legs open saying " Hold baby, hold baby"

Thanks to Chad and Grandma Jo, I went back early to my mom's house and got to have a "girl night" with her. We did some shopping, ate, and then watched Mama Mia. Great chick flick....the new GREASE...kind of. And then the next day I had a wonderful lunch with Anna Morrison. She took me to a local joint in Durham, and we totally passed the day away catching up, laughing, and encouraging one another. I love you sweet friend!

Last but not least in the Vinson home was our Best Christmas Present. a hotel pool!? Who would have thought that spending the night in Asheville going and coming would have been our family's favorite. They loved the pool!! I definately recommend it for ANY road trip. Well, that about sums it up!

Visiting Ivey in her temporary home

Our precious new niece, Isabella. She is just so stinkin' cute!!!

A really awful shot, but hey, it proves i was there. haha

"Hey Tate! Check it out...A basketball goal!"

Waitin' for the words.....

The "Garden of Love" Handprint trinket tray we gave Grandma Emmie

Enjoying a USA Map puzzle at Grandma Jo & Cam's house

On the farm

Holiday Higlights

2009-01-20T18:30:00.000-08:00

Crazy to think it has been a month since we celebrated Christmas with our boys. We just loved the wonder and excitement in their eyes as they opened and enjoyed their gifts and enjoyed their brother's gifts as well. A few days later, we started our NC tour and those pictures are to come.

Owen and Griffin getting into a new building toy

Griffin tearing into his new scooter

Tate can now keep up with his big brothers

Giddy

2008-12-19T19:22:00.000-08:00

I am just giddy about tomorrow! Tomorrow we will celebrate Christmas with our boys, our little family. They are SUPER siked about it and have been counting down for days. I just can't wait to feel the joy and excitement in our home tomorrow as we make memories. Christmas '08. Even tonight as we put the little ones to bed they we just giddy. Giddy that in 12 hours from now when they will be bouncing on our beds saying, "Is it time, can we open our gifts, can we, can we!" They are definately at the age of surprises, and love every minute of it. So, tonight I'm giddy. My stomach is almost nervous just thinking about their smiles and fun that will hppen in the Vinson home tomorrow! :-)

Just a side note, can I just tell you how much I love hearing Owen pray! The last few nights he has really gotten into it, and I absolutely love hearing his heart unfold in those moments. Precious I tell you!!