So Fresh and So Clean!!

My kiddos had their dentist appointments the other day and I'm happy to report - all clean and NO cavities! Wooohooo! This was Brycen's first time to visit the dentist so I was a little bit worried how he would take someone digging around in his mouth. When we first got there, they told me Skylar would be getting xrays and the worry really sank in. How am I suppose to manage two screaming, scared kids?! But they did great!

In fact, not only did I receive mucho compliments on their pearly whites but also how amazing their manners are. They were surprised to see that Bryce went in the chair all by himself, held his mouth open and looked like an old pro. But even more then that - when they handed him his goody bag and he said "tank u" the dentist looked at me all wide-eyed. She was so impressed by how well he spoke for being only 2 and that he was such a well-mannered boy! Oh yes, I'm tooting my own horn here! Clean teeth and good manners - yep, I'm the bomb! lol.

Here's an after pic with their stickers and goodies in hand! Now if only mama can find time to make it to the dentist...

God, grant me patience!

My "big" boy is making a serious leap forward but unfortunately for us, he's attempting this all at once. This last weekend he's crawled out of his crib, went potty on the big-boy potty, and we are in the process of weaning him from his beloved "gee" (pacifier). Sounds great, right? It is really - except for when you're 5 1/2 months pregnant and already taking care of a 4 year old and 2 year old AND your husband owns his own company so it puts a lot of the parenting duties solely in your hands!
I am SO super proud of my little man though. It's amazing how in just a few short months, he's grown so much. I love to hear him talk and as mentioned in a previous post, he's got such a big heart!

Back to last weekend -
This mama is tired. Sunday night I had *maybe* 4 hours of sleep in total. Bryce and Skylar were both up and down all night and just when I start to fall asleep, the alarm goes off! Boo. Monday I was tired, emotional, cranky - all of it and I remember praying (crying, really) God, please get me through this day and give me patience!!! After many more tears and potty messes and "mom, I'm hungry" - I just happened to check my email. I noticed that I had an email from Carla McDougal (great Women's Bible study leader) and I was tempted to just pass it by. But something prompted me to open it and I'm so glad I did! The title of her blog post was The Parenting Marathon - who wouldn't be tempted to read that?! In there she describes about how emotional new transitions are because she happens to be in a different stage of parenting. The "empty nesting" stage. But there was one part of her post that really spoke to me and just what I needed on this sleep-deprived, patience-trying, emotional day.

 -"I feel the need to rehydrate—from a physical and spiritual standpoint. Confusion clouds my mind. My stride weakens with each step. Thoughts of quitting spoil my concentration. Within seconds these words resonate within—Come on, you can do it! I recognize this inner voice of encouragement spurring me forward… the tenderness, the Lord’s perfect timing. All of a sudden, adrenaline kicks in and I pick up the pace. Reaching this mile marker ignites a sense of excitement, accomplishment, and sadness rolled into one emotion.In the midst of these tangled thoughts comes a soothing whisper… a sweet voice eases my confusion. Remember, my child, to lay aside every weight, and the sin, which so easily ensnares you, run with endurance the race that is set before you. But, God… No excuses, look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and now sits at the right hand of the throne of God. These words wash over me like a cleansing spring rain. In the blink of an eye my vision clears. Refocusing on God’s Word brings clarity to the goal. This drink of living water rehydrates my body, mind, and soul preparing me for what lies ahead."

Like I said - she's sending her last child to college so for her it was a different stage in parenting - one of letting go. For me, I was feeling so weak and venerable. I was beginning to have doubts cloud my mind thinking - can I do this? Can I really take care of 3 children? Look how bad I'm struggling with my first two and all I want to do is cry and SLEEP! So reading this was such an encouragement that no task is too big for God. "Remember my child, to lay aside EVERY weight, and the sin (in my case fear and doubt), which so easily ensnares you, run with endurance the race that is set before you."

At that moment, I took a deep breath and said a little prayer and no kidding - I instantly felt better. Undoubtedly I was still tired beyond belief but I felt a reassurance that I could get through this day and I could do it without losing my patience - well, minimally! :)

I leave you with one quick photo of my big boy sporting his batman underoos! He's cute, right?

He Works Hard for The Money!

Okay, so not really the way the song goes but you get the idea. This one's dedicated to my hard working man. Matthew's always been "oil-field trash" and comes by it honest since all of his family is also in the same field. It's amazing really to see where he started and where he is now. From a shop-hand to a business owner is quite a transition and we are ever thankful to God for giving him such an opportunity.

That being said, he is one of the hardest and most dedicated men I know. He wakes up early to start his day and sometimes doesn't really get sleep while he works through the night. And despite all of this, he still makes time for his family. It's been hard and there have been some sacrifices made but the one thing about my husband is that he truly lives for his family. In a later post, I'll discuss his daddy-daughter date nights which mean the world to both Skylar and I. He's a very good man and I'm blessed to have him.

My prayer has always been that he find something that makes him happy - not successful - although that would be nice too. I pray that he always keep God first, his family second, and remember that business ventures come and go but family is forever! I doubt that in later years when my kids reflect on their father that they would say something like "hey dad, I'm so thankful to you for a cool car and a big house." No, I think it would be something more along the lines of "I'm thankful that you were always there for me when I needed you and you loved me unconditionally." I say it all of the time but I'm very VERY blessed because my prayers have been answered and I couldn't ask for a better "daddy" for our kids.

So - WE LOVE YOU DADDY! Thank you for everything you do and for all the love you give!

Fourth of July 2012

This year was a pretty fun year to celebrate Independence Day. In years past, Skylar has always been pretty terrified of the loud fireworks and the out of control sparklers. But this year, now that she's my big and brave four year old- she really seemed to enjoy it. Bryce - being ALL boy - LOVED it! Of everyone though, I think that daddy liked it the most. It's a time when he gets to unleash the inner pyro with his wife's consent.

We started the day out with friends at the parade. Daddy had to work which was a bummer but we still had so much fun. And he made up for it with a beautiful display of fireworks! The parade was something I wasn't really sure about since the kids are still so young and it's so very hot but they did great! Bryce was all about cheering on each and every float that came by and at one point, he practically threw his juice at me to applaud the war veterans. It was hard not to get emotional. Here's a little glimpse of our parade fun -

It was a wonderfully HOT time! SO thankful for good friends and family. Speaking of family, after the parade we went home to have some lunch and then headed to Papa's house where we got to have some pool time. It was definitely needed after our excursion to the parade. We enjoyed swimming, eating, and visiting. Skylar and Adley even braved the pool with no water wings! It was a great 4th of July indeed. This is a pic of Jaymee with her Adley and me with my Skylar -all cousins!

And here's a pic of my wonderful Grandmother with *some* of her greats and grandson, Jack. She's an amazing women whom I love and adore!

Birthday Babes!

Last year my kiddos celebrated their birthday outside with a huge waterside and a smaller splash area for the little ones. This year - since Mama's expecting we did an indoor (aka - AC) party! We had so much fun celebrating with all of our friends and family at Bouncing Bears. Our theme was Toy Story and both of the kids wore cute little shirts showing off their ages! I can't believe that my kids are growing so fast! My baby is 4 and little man is 2! I've said it once and I'll say it again - don't blink!!

Skylar really had more fun since the bouncing catered to her age group a bit more. Bryce was ready for cu-cay's (cupcakes)! It was a very good day and I know they had a blast! 

My Sweet FOUR year old:

How time flies when you're having fun. Skylar, you are such an amazing little girl and have really grown so much over the past year. You are still the same inquisitive little girl you've always been but now, to see how much you've grown and how much you understand - it's truly amazing. You have a gift, baby. You are SO smart and adapt well in any situation. I love that you can walk into a room full of strangers and instantly make your presence known as well as making "best friends" instantly. It's something that also worries me though because you're heart is so big, it's been such a hard task to get you to understand that there are some bad people in the world too. To you, that's not possible because you see the good in everybody! You are also still as sassy as ever and while sometimes you drive mama crazy, most times I have to suppress my laughter because of what a little fireball you are. You sure can dish it out - that's for sure. I already know that you and I are going to go toe-to-toe many of times and most likely your wits and charm will beat me! But remember - you always say - "mama, you're the bus (boss)!" And DON'T you forget it! 

I love our little talks and especially love our girl-time. I think that you and I agree that most times having Bryce around is great-fun but a girl needs some downtime once and a while. You love being treated like a princess and getting your nails painted or going to look at Pottery Barn Kids. You just get lost in that store, playing with all the girly things from strollers to vanity's and jewelry boxes. You are also such a great big sister. There are times that I fear for Brycen's safety - like when you slammed his fingers shut in the bedroom door because you wanted him out. But if ever I mention taking "bubba" away, you have a huge meltdown. I know that you love him and my prayer is that you are always close! No matter what challenges each of you face - remember God gave him to you to love and protect! You're so happy right now at the idea of a new little sister. There have been times that you have asked if you're still my girl or if you got new baby clothes too. I've tried to explain to you as well as show you that NO one will ever replace you! You are my first and that's something that no one can take away. There's only one you and I'm so blessed that I get to be the one that has you - spending all of my time with you. It's something that's been difficult to convey because while you're such a "big girl", you are still only 4 and only understand so much. 

I love you my sweet princess. I am so excited for this upcoming year full of new friends and new adventures. 

Kisses, butterfly, eskimo, and BEEEEES!!! 

Mama

My Squish -

I'm not sure how much longer you'll be a little "squish" as now you're leaning out and losing some of that baby chub that we all adore so much. Don't get me wrong, I think you'll always be a big guy but there's just something about a bouncing baby boy full of pinch able fat that makes my heart melt! Nothing could've ever prepared me for you, Brycen Allen. No amount of books or "been there, done that" speeches from fellow mama's. I mean this in every sense...the obvious that you are most definitely "all boy" but also I mean that nothing could've prepared my heart for amount of love I have for you. Like your sister, you are the only "you" and to make sure that I'm clear - I love each of you beyond words but each of you hold a special but different place in my heart. There are moments I can share with your sister that sorry bud, you just can compete with. But then there are "us" moments...special, tender, and sweet moments. See - unlike your sister who has always been a very independent girl - you love to love and you love to cuddle. There are so many unasked for or unsolicited hugs and kisses that are so dear to my heart. You are definitely a mama's boy. Daddy is good for rough-housing which is something that you want to do ALL of the time but your sleepy, sick, cuddly moments are reserved just for me! You have a smile that lights the world and a contagious laugh just like your great grandmother, Judy. I pray you NEVER lose that because it's what draws everyone in and makes them feel good just to be around you. 

Now back to the other part of that statement - you know, the "all boy" thing. Sigh. Our house will never be the same now that you're here. Just when we thing everything is "bubba-proofed" you come along and destroy something else. You can't eat a meal without putting some of it on the table or yourself...art, I call it. Every drink still needs the protective "no-spill" piece because for whatever reason - drinks become a source of water gun or splash area. Our ozarka container has baby locks that you have already mastered and insist on trying to empty the 5 gallons of water daily! You MUST have shorts or pants on at all times because if left only in a diaper - it immediately comes off while you run butt-naked thru the house peeing on everything. Our silverware drawer takes a little bit of tugging when trying to pull it out because you always go in and dig for something while hanging on it and unhinging it from the rack. Because you always seem to be "unnn-rrry" (hungry), the pantry is a daily struggle. If you can reach it, you will pull it out and attempt to open it yourself. Then of course there's the normal stuff like running straight for the one and only mud puddle in our only pair of clothes, or climbing to the top of the playground and attempting to jump of the slide rather then actually slide down, or putting anything and everything in your mouth to give it a taste-test. The list goes on. I read once on pinterest or some other site a quote that said "boy - (noun). noise with dirt on it." It's SO true. I wouldn't change any of it though, baby. Not a single thing.

I love that you love to dance. I love that you love your sister with all of your heart. She's your best friend and no one makes you laugh like she can. Buddy, please promise me the you'll always be there for her. You are her only brother and I know in my heart that God has great plans for you but remember that she needs your unconditional love always. Crazy or bossy as she may be - love her still. You are my sweet son and I take so much pride in calling you mine. I leave with one little poem that I found in a book..you know to continue with the sappy stuff...

That Little Boy of Mine

Two eyes that shine so bright,

Two lips that kiss goodnite,

Two arms that hold me tight,

That little boy of mine.

No one could ever know how much your coming has meant.

Because I love you so, you're something heaven sent.

You're all the world to me.

You climb upon my knee.

To me you'll always be.

That little boy of mine.

I love you forever my Brycen Allen. 

Mama

Sweet and Chunky GIRL!

Last week was our big anatomy scan and everything looks great. In fact, our newest little princess has really started growing and where most babies weigh around 10.5 ounces at this stage, she's weighing in at a whopping 13oz! And legs!! She's got looooong and skinny legs! I'm already so in love. Our little turkey was a bit uncooperative however, and I'm hoping it's because she's lazy and not another strong-willed child who does what she wants - when she wants. I have two of those already...this mama needs a break!

After the appointment, I saw my regular doctor who said that everything was absolutely perfect. I thought about that later. About how I never had a perfect pregnancy without some kind of hurdle or obstacle to overcome. With Skylar, at this same scan they found cysts on her brain and a kidney problem known as hydronephrosis. With Bryce, I had hyperthyroidism and had to see a cardiologist for fear that my pregnancy was causing too much pressure and hypertension. This just feels so surreal. She's been a blessing from the very beginning. No fertility issues and countless tears thinking I'd never get pregnant - nope, God just gave her to me. And now, a healthy pregnancy?! I say all of the time how blessed I feel but truly, I can't possibly express the amount of thankfulness I have to serve such a powerful and gracious God. My cup runneth over.

So here's a pic of our little butterball. Like I said, she was being a bit uncooperative and only wanting to smash her face right up against my placenta so getting a clear picture was a bit of a challenge. Keep staring at it, you'll see her...and she looks mighty sweet! I LOVE HER!