Kneeling, I held his precious head with one hand and thanked God through tears… waiting, and knowing that the next contraction would bring my baby boy into my arms. As I waited, I was completely enveloped in peace and gratitude.
The Great Christmas Tree Debate
Anyone else notice the Christmas decorations seem to be coming out sooner this year than during previous years?? A week ago we went to pick out our Christmas Tree. That’s right – – almost 2 full weeks BEFORE Thanksgiving! *gasp* I have NEVER been one to freak out about the timing of when to put…
The Story Behind ‘The Prayer’
The Story Behind the Prayer – – Earlier this year, when Chris and I both realized we were ready and excited to add another person to our family, we began praying (among other things) *face* for the one who would join our family. One day while scrolling IG, I came across a post that honestly…
Seeing Beyond the Mess
At first glance, this looks like nothing but a huge mess. And – I’m not going to lie – it did make my heart beat a little faster and my eye twitch a bit. At first.But once I exhaled, what caught my eye as I paused from bustling around the house this morning were these…
When Life Sends Rain…
When life sends rain… splash in the puddles! 💦 Yesterday was an extremely hard day. So many sad and difficult things kept piling up on my heart and then eventually pushed me over the edge. I felt like I could hardly get out of bed. Zero energy. Zero drive. Zero happiness. …and that’s saying a…
A Call from Heaven
This evening Charley excitedly – & almost frantically – called to me through the kitchen window. I had just stepped inside for a moment to water some freshly potted sunflower seeds, but it sounded urgent. Through the glass, she pointed to the old rotary phone affixed to our fence and yelled, “Mommy! Hurry! Come quick!…
Hawk of the Battle
Gavin Michael Judah. Tonight while putting you and Charley to bed I noticed your full name on the canvas I painted when I was pregnant with you. Gavin – Hawk of the Battle Michael – Gift from God Judah – One who brings praise My eyes lingered on these words, and suddenly they felt so…
18 years, 1 Wedding Dress, 1 Beautiful Girl – One More Year
Another birthday gone by, another year with my treasure! Each year, I have so much fun celebrating Charley, whether it’s on a trip across the country or a simple party at home. When the suitcases are unpacked and gift bags are put away, my next favorite tradition is getting out my wedding gown like I…
We Got Rid of Our TV: The First Week and Beyond
If you haven’t heard, we ditched our TV. Crazy? Maybe. But we’ll all find out together. We have a 2 and a 3-year-old that I noticed were relying too heavily on the TV to get through the day. We also have tired mid-thirties parents who were relying too heavily on the TV to get through…
We Got Rid of Our TV: Day 3&4
If you haven’t heard, we ditched our TV. Crazy? Maybe. But we’ll all find out together. We have a 2 and a 3-year-old that I noticed were relying too heavily on the TV to get through the day. We also have tired mid-thirties parents who were relying too heavily on the TV to get through…
We Got Rid of Our TV: A Battle Against the Habit of Screens
When Charley was born, I fiercely protected her. I don’t think I’m different from any other mother in this… it’s simply a mother’s instinct to give your child the best chance at life. My drive to protect her included her health, her mind, and her development. I was so convicted that I didn’t want my…
Charley's Circus 