the bunkhouse

finger peek-a-boo

2012-01-25T07:59:00.000-05:00

So Zoey and Elijah play this game where they stick their fingers underneath the door of Zoey's bedroom and the other person tries to touch them before they disappear. There are boundless giggles coming from upstairs when this particular game is played.

I love it. I love the fact that they are playing nicely together. I love the giggles. I love that they created their own game... and I love the fact that none of any of this had to do with me.

jakey and li-jee

2012-01-23T22:17:00.001-05:00

These 2 give me a run for my money.

Seeing that they are only 14 months apart, I don't see that changing any time soon.

ice rink

2012-01-22T16:14:00.003-05:00

Chris made an ice rink in our backyard.

I think it's close to Olympic size.

The kids have been out there every day it has been cold enough.

Zoey is even getting comfortable on skates!

I LOVE MICHIGAN!
(sorry the pictures aren't very good... I was taking them from inside the warm house with the babies)

saturday

2012-01-22T16:13:00.000-05:00

I love days when our family can just be together... the entire day. I know that seems very simple, but because of our lifestyle, this doesn't always just happen for us. Today the only things we had scheduled we could all be together, and I think I smiled the entire day (well, not when I was trying to find snow clothes for the 3 older kids... that was stressful). Our day ended at Cameron's 5th birthday party and Isaac couldn't have been happier... I mean, a night to jump around and be with friends... he was in heaven!

they'll learn soon enough....

2012-01-20T13:08:00.000-05:00

My niece Alina and Zoey are best-friends. You know, the kind-of friends where you want to call them at nighttime to share that you found your lost strawberry shortcake doll in your brother's legos. The other day when they were together, I was cracking up at their interaction....I would constantly hear things like....

"You're mean."

"I don't want to do that!"

"I love you so much!"

"Your hair looks so pretty today."

"Stop looking at me!"

I had to step in and break up a few conversations that got a little out of control, but I couldn't help wonder.... what would my relationships be like if we were to talk to each other as candidly as preschool girls? Could you imagine?

there is always a glitch

2012-01-15T23:52:00.000-05:00

{this picture was taken back when Elijah had his big fall out of the car}

Since Jacob has been born, I probably hear the phrase "You have your hands full!" at least once a day. It's a true statement. I definitely always have my hands full. I had a conversation at church the other night with another mom who was asking me how it's going. I told her it's going great... until there is a glitch... and with 4 kids 5 years and younger there is always glitch.... and by "glitch" I mean things going downhill fast.

I could give an example of how our Sunday mornings go, but instead I will just say that I'm learning some great character traits with this new family of 6 and all of our fun glitches:

1}flexibility 2}patience 3}grace

I'll tell you one thing... I definitely couldn't do this alone. God knew me inside and out when he brought Chris into my life. I mean, this guy watched all 4 kids yesterday (I had a youth activity at the church), fed them, changed them and still found time to clean the entire house!

time flies when you have 4 kids...

2012-01-13T09:44:00.001-05:00

Some new things going on in the Bunk household:

Jacob smiled for the first time this morning... the real kind of smile! The best part was it was when Isaac was holding him and we were all there to see it!
Isaac lost his 2nd tooth. This one didn't just fall out, so our brave little man worked it until it came out. We were very proud of him.
Zoey is learning so much and is now coloring inside the lines. I caught her doing it the other day and was shocked. She also beat both Chris and Isaac in a BeyBlades tournament they had and is now going around the house saying "GIRL POWER!"
Elijah can pull himself up onto almost anything and is starting to say new words. His sign language is expanding as well. His favorite thing to do is wrestle and is tackling Zoey to the ground all day long. She is not amused. This kid keeps me on my toes!
Chris and I still laugh all day long at the craziness of our house... but wouldn't have it any other way. We are constantly wiping up milk spills, breaking up Nerf sword wars, trying to find bottles and changing diapers.... we love it, just could use a little more sleep. We both moan when the alarm goes off in the morning (and by "alarm" I mean one of the kids yelling our name).

{phone photo dump}

2012-01-12T16:40:00.000-05:00

i feel like i have cotton balls in my brain.

2012-01-10T23:36:00.001-05:00

I used to feel semi-intelligent.

There was even a time where I could hold a decent conversation about something somewhat important... religion, politics, theology, etc.

Now I can barely tell you what day it is.

I guess that's what 3 hours of sleep a night does to a person.

On the other hand, I can tell you in detail the humming noise Jacob makes with his nose when he is happily eating.... and the sound Elijah makes when he runs across our hardwood floors with a flat foot ... and the details of the colic in my baby girl's hair and the way she squirms when I'm trying to unsuccessfully cover it up... and the mortified look Isaac gives me when I say something "girlie."

So please forgive me if I ask you to repeat the same sentence over to me for the 3rd time... or if I start to daze off in delirium while answering your question.

I have a brain.
One that has served me quite well in the past.

It's just working in a different capacity at the moment.

Our Airport Adventure.

2012-01-06T08:29:00.000-05:00

My parents LOVE missions.

In fact, as long as I can remember, they have had a deep passion and longing for the world... especially 3rd world countries. We took short-term missions trips with them once a year when we were younger, but now that we are all grown, God has launched them out more and more and it seems like they are gone overseas as much as they are here.

Last night they were coming back from a17-day trip to Sierra Leone, Africa. I was in charge of finding someone to pick them up. I knew before they left that I wanted to do it myself.... 17-days is a LONG time! Well, after talking to the rest of the family, we ~~fought about~~ decided that we would ALL go to get them from the airport. (and by ALL I mean 5 adults and 8 children). So we all hopped on the church bus and headed out to Metro Airport. It might seem crazy, but you get all the best stories on the way home from the airport!

I love my parents.

I am so proud of them for following the call of God.

I'm only slightly jealous of the places they get to go and people they get to meet.

Someday.....

Jakey @ 6 weeks

2012-01-05T11:59:00.001-05:00

Yesterday marked 6 weeks old for our Jakey-boy and I have to say that time is flying!!! Everyday I look at him and freak out because he is growing so fast. He is an incredible eater, a very good sleeper and is loved by his brothers and sisters more than he knows. He is staying awake during the day more and more and he LOVES being held by his sister, Zoey. To be completely honest, she is the one that can calm him down the best! He gets a lot of love each day, even if it comes in the form of a bop on the head or a slobbery kiss on the cheek. He is starting to follow objects and people with his eyes, and like all of our kids, has a very strong neck.... he is always picking his head up to see what's going on. Now we are just waiting for you to sleep through the night... well at least one of us is!

We love you Jake!

4 totally different babies

2012-01-03T09:55:00.000-05:00

When we had Jacob, a lot of people made the comment "we already knew what he was going to look like before we saw him." I know all of our kids look similar, but I can tell each of them apart from their infant pictures.... can you?

just some unsolicited advice.

2012-01-02T12:41:00.000-05:00

Keep it simple.
Don't expect life to be fair.
Compliment small improvements.
Look up at the stars.
Pay attention to the details.
Love the unnoticed.
Play as hard as you work.
Make someone else comfortable.
Hold the hands of those you love.
Make this year count.

goodbye 2011

2012-01-02T09:06:00.000-05:00

This past year has been INSANE!

In my first post of 2011, I said...

"I am expecting a lot of growth, some change,
and great things from the Lord!"

At that point, I wasn't pregnant, we weren't even thinking of moving out of our house and Elijah hadn't even rolled over yet. God had some GREAT things in store for 2011 and we were along for the ride. If last year taught me anything, it is that God's plans are much greater than our plans.... and His ways are so much higher. I am so grateful that the Lord didn't consult us for what we wanted to happen in 2011... and I'm hoping he does the same for 2012!

i wonder what he dreams about.

2012-01-01T17:47:00.000-05:00

A Mother's Nightmare

2011-12-30T10:09:00.001-05:00

Yesterday my son was GOALIE.

I'm not gonna lie.... I wasn't a fan.

I could feel my blood pressure rise as he stepped out on the ice in that ridiculous equipment.

At least at this age I didn't have to watch pucks coming at his face at warp speed... but that might not be the case in the next couple years. I don't think I have to worry much, Isaac wasn't very happy that he had to stay in the same spot the entire time. You did good though, buddy!

Christmas Morning

2011-12-30T10:03:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas morning... everyone loves Christmas morning... but having kids makes it even more exciting!

The kids were so excited to wake us up and open their gifts before we headed out to our Christmas service. This year was a lot of fun!

Uncle Marv serenading the kids before service with his wonderful rendition of "Lord I Lift Your Name On High."

Elijah was so in awe of his Uncle Matt playing the guitar, he couldn't take his eyes off him.

He seriously sat there for awhile. It was so cute.

Brothers.

For our Christmas service we heard the original intent behind the song "The 12 Days of Christmas" and the kids got to join in and help. It was great!

The Bunk Express

2011-12-24T22:51:00.000-05:00

Well, tonight was our annual trip on The Bunk Express. The kids were so excited to get their tickets and jump on-board. Here is some great memories made last year...and this year was no different... except for the 4th car seat.

Welcome to the North Pole!

2011-12-24T22:47:00.000-05:00

This morning we woke up early and jumped in the car in our PJs to head to the North Pole. We even had a special visit from Santa... Zoey feel immediately in love and couldn't take her eyes off him, it was so cute! Angela did such an incredible job making it so much fun for the kids. I think this definitely needs to be an annual tradition!

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-23T11:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was Isaac's "Breakfast with Santa" at school and Jacob and I got to attend! It was so much fun seeing Isaac interacting with his friends and his teacher. Kindergarten is so much fun!

Annual Photo Shoot

2011-12-20T12:05:00.000-05:00

Sunday we celebrated Christmas with our extended family on the Bunk side. Every year, without fail, the kids steal the camera and take more pictures than we care to enjoy. I do always love looking at them afterwards to see what they got.... so cute!

Sunday's Christmas Service

2011-12-20T10:23:00.000-05:00

the grandkids

2011-12-20T10:18:00.000-05:00

We all moaned when we heard my mom say "I want a picture with all my grandkids." The kids were crying, the dads were laughing and the moms were jumping around doing crazy dance moves to get the kids to look at the camera. I didn't get a very good one (my sister did), but to me, these are priceless!

our cleaning lady

2011-12-20T10:09:00.000-05:00

Zoey has always loved to clean and now that she's a little older I can take full advantage of my little girl's skills! The other day she came into the office and asked if I could come and see something she did. She had swept and cleaned the entire living room (and did a very good job too) and wasn't even asked. I couldn't believe it. Since she got so much praise and heard me bragging on her to her daddy, she now cleans all the time. I love it! Good job Zo!

3 weeks and counting

2011-12-14T09:08:00.000-05:00

{I couldn't get Jacob to look at the camera... but you get the idea.}

It's been 3 weeks Jacob has entered the world and it's been a whirlwind, to say the least. The kids are IN LOVE with their little brother and are constantly kissing him and wanting to hold him. I couldn't be more happy! Yesterday was somewhat peaceful (although that's a very relative term) and I was able to take in the fact that Chris and I have a very full life. Smiles. Smiles. Smiles.

Jacob is such a good baby. He eats good. He sleeps good. He has a great digestive system. He lets the kids fawn all over him with wide eyes. My only complaint: He is already looking too old to me! Time is flying!

Christmas Program 2011

2011-12-11T21:50:00.000-05:00

Tonight was the kids' annual school Christmas program. I think Zoey enjoyed it more this year because Isaac was in the audience and she got all the attention (plus her friends were by her side which made it more fun). Zoey did GREAT... Elijah, well, he had a long day and wasn't really digging being in front of everyone. All and all it was another wonderful year!

our 'lil man Judah-bug

2011-12-11T21:31:00.000-05:00

Today was our nephew Judah's baby dedication at church and it was beautiful. That kid is so cute!!!! I love the picture of the kids laying hands on Lance and Jeni... melts my heart. We love you Judah-bug!

Here I Am

2011-12-10T11:58:00.000-05:00

Today as we were getting things done around the house, a song came on our stereo... a song that took me back to 2006. I just had Isaac and was completely emotional and overwhelmed, and this song gave me peace and confidence in God. Hearing it today brought a smile to my face... 4 kids later, I am more peaceful and confident in God than I have ever been. He is so faithful!

have you forgotten?

2011-12-06T08:08:00.001-05:00

Hebrews 12:5-11 (God's Word Version)

You have forgotten the encouraging words that God speaks to you as his children:

“My child, pay attention when the Lord disciplines you. Don’t give up when he corrects you. The Lord disciplines everyone he loves. He severely disciplines everyone he accepts as his child.”

Endure your discipline. God corrects you as a father corrects his children. All children are disciplined by their fathers. If you aren’t disciplined like the other children, you aren’t part of the family. On earth we have fathers who disciplined us, and we respect them. Shouldn’t we place ourselves under the authority of God, the father of spirits, so that we will live? For a short time our fathers disciplined us as they thought best. Yet, God disciplines us for our own good so that we can become holy like him. We don’t enjoy being disciplined. It always seems to cause more pain than joy. But later on, those who learn from that discipline have peace that comes from doing what is right.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-05T12:28:00.001-05:00

Christmas 2011

Christmas 2010

Christmas 2009

as our life becomes more complicated, the traditions become more important.

2011-12-05T12:17:00.001-05:00

...and the tradition continues... all the way to Home Depot.
We have YET to get an ugly tree (we pick them out pre-wrapped, so we don't know what they look like until we get home... it's a fool-proof way to make the decision take less than an hour)

We spent the night putting up the tree and ~~all~~ most of our Christmas stuff.

Then we attempted the annual kid Christmas picture in front of the tree.

What a trip!

I am finally excited for the holidays!!!

I miss God.

2011-12-03T12:32:00.002-05:00

It's like clockwork.

Around this time... a week after I have a baby... I start to feel distant. I start to have a deep craving to spend quality time with the Lord... time that is VERY hard to find. Even when I sit down with my Bible, I find myself moments later waking up wondering when I feel asleep in the first place, and if I even got through the first verse. I was very encouraged by an excerpt from My Utmost this morning (it isn't today's entry). I hope it encourages and strengthens you like it did me... and gives you "a new vision and a new purpose."

Enoch walked with God . . . —Genesis 5:24

The true test of a person’s spiritual life and character is not what he does in the extraordinary moments of life, but what he does during the ordinary times when there is nothing tremendous or exciting happening. A person’s worth is revealed in his attitude toward the ordinary things of life when he is not under the spotlight (seeJohn 1:35-37 and John 3:30). It is painful work to get in step with God and to keep pace with Him— it means getting your second wind spiritually. In learning to walk with God, there is always the difficulty of getting into His stride, but once we have done so, the only characteristic that exhibits itself is the very life of God Himself. The individual person is merged into a personal oneness with God, and God’s stride and His power alone are exhibited.

It is difficult to get into stride with God, because as soon as we start walking with Him we find that His pace has surpassed us before we have even taken three steps. He has different ways of doing things, and we have to be trained and disciplined in His ways. It was said of Jesus— “He will not fail nor be discouraged . . .” (Isaiah 42:4) because He never worked from His own individual standpoint, but always worked from the standpoint of His Father. And we must learn to do the same. Spiritual truth is learned through the atmosphere that surrounds us, not through intellectual reasoning. It is God’s Spirit that changes the atmosphere of our way of looking at things, and then things begin to be possible which before were impossible. Getting into God’s stride means nothing less than oneness with Him. It takes a long time to get there, but keep at it. Don’t give up because the pain is intense right now— get on with it, and before long you will find that you have a new vision and a new purpose.

our 'lil rudolph

2011-12-02T19:19:00.000-05:00

Well, it wasn't a very good day.

Our little adventurer took a tumble.... just in time for Christmas pictures.

I can only assume this is how it is going to be with 3 boys in the house.

I guess I need to make sure our first aid kits are stocked.

our house.

2011-11-29T18:00:00.000-05:00

diaper changes. feedings. cuddling. laughing. shhhh-ing. holding. cleaning. smiling. explaining. loving. scolding. kissing. sharing. wiping. clinging. crying. thinking. reminiscing. repeat.

is there really enough love to go around?

2011-11-27T08:30:00.000-05:00

It happened yesterday, and I can't stop thinking about it.

I put Elijah in his high chair and threw some raisins on so I could get the older kids something to drink before Jacob needed to eat again.... and then I looked. Elijah was smiling ear to ear and was trying to grab my hand.

Have I even said hello to him today?

Did I kiss or hug him, or give him any attention that would let him know that my love for him hasn't changed?

I've NEVER struggled with the "will-I-love-this-child-as-much-as-the-others" question while pregnant... I always knew there was enough love to go around. The problem is, at this point I don't have a lot of TIME for each child, and it worries me that in their eyes TIME=LOVE.

I am so grateful that they are surrounded by people who love their guts and can make up for the time I am unable to give and I know that my kids will always feel loved. I guess it's back to making the little moments count.... like diaper changes and bedtime readings... times where I can catch each child's eye to let them know that although time is tight, my love for them keeps growing.

Jacob Christopher

2011-11-25T07:35:00.001-05:00

Jacob Christopher

8lb. 4oz.

20 inches

You would know which kid was ours if you had to pick him out of a line-up.

BEST Thanksgiving EVER!

{more pictures to come... when I find a free second to post... hahahahaha}

only a day away.

2011-11-22T20:29:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow our 4th child will be brought into this world.

My mind is racing... but I feel like it's hard to form a single thought.

God is so good.

He is so faithful.

I am humbled that He would use me for something so grand... something so eternal.

I'm not overwhelmed with the task, as much as the honor.... the responsibility.

It goes beyond midnight feedings and sleepless nights.

It's about a soul.

A soul dedicated to Jesus Christ.

...and it all begins tomorrow.

Princess Tea Party

2011-11-20T21:31:00.000-05:00

On Saturday morning, Zoey, Alina and I headed over to their Preschool's Princess Tea Party. The girls were so excited to find out that Kate's mom is the "real Cinderella." Zoey told me that I could be Cinderella too if I didn't have such a big belly... best compliment I got all day! They learned how to hold their tea cup, how to curtsy and even had some time for dancing. It was such a fun day and all the girls had an amazing time!

a mega-dose of reality.... as usual

2011-11-16T21:56:00.009-05:00

Last night during our family dinner, Isaac had something he wanted to tell his dad.

(Hoping I get the quotes as close as possible to real events...)

"Did you know that eels have electricity? And did you know that if an eel is up in space and touches an astronaut space suit they will get electrocuted and will fall over?"

As as fast as he could spill out his incredible space theory, I could see Chris' eyes getting bigger and bigger. Isaac had no idea he was about to get a dose of reality. I knew Chris couldn't contain himself... especially if the story had to do with electricity.

"Isaac, that story is impossible. First of all, an eel could never live in space...they can only live in water and they wouldn't be able to breathe in space unless they had a space suit too. Secondly, an astronaut suit is not conductive, so if an astronaut had it on, the eel couldn't electrocute him at all."

I gave Chris the "way-to-crush-his-creativity" look and he gave me back the "he-needs-to-know-the-truth" stare. I quickly glanced back at Isaac to make sure that his imagination was not crushed forever.

"Really? I didn't know that dad. Does the astronaut need to wear gloves too?"

Like father, like son.
Zoey and I are going to go play fairies and princesses in her room.

random thoughts as I try to drink my coffee before it gets cold.

2011-11-15T08:45:00.000-05:00

(The picture isn't that great.... really dark phone pic that I tried to lighten!)

Today is a day that I am home with my little ones.

One of the last days it will be just us 3.

These 2 have made my life so interesting.

They both think so differently than Isaac.

It's been fun to see the "mothering" side of Zoey come out when it comes to her little brother. She is always letting me know what he is doing and if he is being safe or not. I also hear her talking to him like I do, "Elijah, we do not spill our milk on the floor!" It's neat to see her take responsibility for him and do her best to take care of him when she thinks I'm busy. This will help me out a lot when the new baby boy comes next week.

Oh yeah, I'm having another human being join my family next week. I keep forgetting.

I am so thankful for Cozi, Coffee and Wet Wipes... all which make my life so much more manageable.

I think it's fitting that we are most likely having this baby boy the day before Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for!!!!

Ugh.

2011-11-11T08:45:00.002-05:00

Need a little pick-me-up today?

I did.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble" {Psalm 46:1}

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." {Isaiah 40:29}

"My flesh & my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart & my portion forever" {Psalm 73:26}

"When I called, you answered me. You made me bold by strengthening my soul." {Psalm 138:3}

Happy Autumn!

2011-11-04T09:19:00.001-04:00

Last night we headed into our new backyard to play in the leaves and have a bonfire. It was so much fun watching our kids enjoy our new house and once again, I was so joyful for the blessings of God. My kids are at an age where sometimes they are difficult to rally, but at the perfect age for exploration and experiencing new things, which is so much fun for me!
Happy Autumn!

Fall Frenzy 2011

2011-11-04T09:09:00.001-04:00

We had a Obi-Wan-Kenobi, a Yoda and a Cinderella.

I didn't get any pictures.... but we had a great night.

Now what are we going to do with all this candy???

Updates. Updates.

2011-10-29T21:31:00.000-04:00

There are so many things going on right now, I'm not even quite sure what day it is... but I wanted to give a couple of updates to record some of our most outstanding achievements this past week or so.

Isaac lost his first tooth and his second one shouldn't be that far behind. I'm not a huge fan of wiggly teeth, so I am ecstatic it is now safely in our cabinet.
Elijah slept in a toddler bed a few times and did pretty well. I'm not sure it is a permanent thing yet, he just turned a year old a few weeks ago, but we are going to make as much progress with it as possible.
Zoey LOVES 3-yr-old Preschool and is learning things pretty quickly... we are doing great with the alphabet, numbers, shapes and colors.
I am now in my 9th month of pregnancy and am quickly remembering what the end feels like. We are almost done setting up the nursery and pulling out all the newborn stuff... didn't I just do this last year?
We are LOVING our neighborhood and have been given more baked goods then we can eat. Seriously, I have never met nicer people in my life... one of neighbor girls already helped Chris with Elijah at Isaac's hockey game! (Their family ran into him at the rink)
We are currently in discussions for this 3rd boy's name.... Zoey is pretty stuck on "Jesus Christopher Bunk" and doesn't understand why we wouldn't want to use our favorite name. I told her it would get a little confusing when we call on Jesus for strength and then ask him to stop throwing Cheerios. She is even more confused.

Well, those are our updates for now... back to unpacking boxes!

Bunk... Number 21

2011-10-29T21:13:00.001-04:00

Ready for his 1st game.

Hakuna Matata

2011-10-28T08:44:00.002-04:00

Last night we hit our limit.

To say we are exhausted is a complete understatement.

I mean look at my husband in this picture... he is wiped out!

I decided to make a executive decision and call an emergency movie night. The kids got their PJs on, I made the popcorn and we all snuggled on the couch to watch The Lion King. It was just what the DR ordered. We all needed to laugh with each other, touch each other and breathe. It was such a perfect night.

Things at our house are going at a really good pace. Each day Chris and I get more and more excited about our new home, even though there is a ton more work to do. Chris and my dad set up Isaac's car bunk bed last night, so all the kids slept in their own rooms and did great. (Elijah will move in with Isaac shortly). My next project is the nursery and I'm excited to get all the baby stuff out again... good thing our washer and dryer is being delivered Monday! Thanks again to everyone who has helped us this past week... even with packing/moving tips from other states. It has been a huge blessing knowing that we are so loved and thought of!

{On a random note, I think out of the hundreds of times I have seen The Lion King, I get choked up every time Simba looks into the sky and says "You said you would always be there... and you're not." UGH! I was holding back tears last night too... such a good movie!}

saying thank you is just not enough.

2011-10-24T09:15:00.000-04:00

"...the Lord your God will bless you in the land that he is giving you."

{Deuteronomy 28:8}

This is the scripture I read this morning and it couldn't have been more perfect. Actually the entire chapter is how I feel right now. {Read it here} We had our big house move this weekend and to say I am overwhelmed is an understatement... but it's not in the way most people would think. Yes, we have loads of boxes everywhere and I had to comb my hair with my daughter's doll brush yesterday, but the overwhelming part is how blessed we are.

We are blessed with an incredible house.

We are blessed with incredible family and friends.

We are blessed with super friendly neighbors.

We are blessed with very adaptable kids.

We are blessed by a God who knows us.

We had so many people show up Saturday morning to help us move... people who have a million things going on themselves! Almost every time I would sincerely thank someone for coming, they would reply "How could we not bless a guy like Chris?" As his wife, this statement meant so much to me... I mean I know how hard he works and how much he does for others, but it was such a blessing to hear others say it and gather around to bless him. {It was also SO fun seeing all his friends give him a hard time about the stuff they were loading up!}

I do want to thank everyone one more time for the over-the-top help you gave us this weekend (loading up our stuff, unloading our stuff, bringing food, watching our kids, doing our laundry, driving us all over, etc) We couldn't have done this without you!

Field Trip to the Firehouse

2011-10-17T15:08:00.000-04:00

Seeing OUR Baby #4

2011-10-12T14:12:00.000-04:00

I am completely blowing my mind right now.

I had an ultrasound early this morning because of some concerns from my DR. When I got in the room, the "new tech" told me that she was still a student and that after she got me set up she would have her supervisor come in. She then mentioned that I was "very lucky to get her." I wasn't sure what she meant, until this 33-year veteran tech started to show me the pics of my baby. I couldn't believe the angles she was getting of my little boy. I have NEVER had a 2D ultrasound like this... she even mentioned that she doesn't know why people need 3D ultrasounds... I guess with her doing this, you wouldn't!

our home

2011-10-12T09:29:00.000-04:00

Today we are 1 week away from getting the keys to our house and I can't control my excitement. This has been a long time coming! I got reprimanded for not posting any pictures, so I posted the one from our realtor's website. We do have a ton of work to do on the house, but are waiting until after baby #4 is born and the holidays are through to get started on our 10-year dream-house plan.

Here are some of my favorite details (This is for Jennie Brady):

4 bedrooms upstairs

Den on the main floor

2.5 bathrooms

Huge yard (with built-in pool)

Natural fireplace in the family room

Large 1st floor laundry room (with room for kid cubbies!)

Hardwood floors throughout

...and more and more and more.

Let me just say that God is SO faithful! Chris and I had 3 things that were very important to us, almost non-negotiable, and this house has all 3!

{brain dump} on a friday

2011-10-07T11:33:00.001-04:00

This morning was one of the roughest I've had in a long time.

The icing on the cake was that Elijah didn't sleep well last night and has been really fussy today... and by fussy, I mean screaming every time I put him down. I'm pretty convinced he isn't feeling very well, since this isn't like him.

I hit a point where I knew I needed reinforcements. I laid the kids in bed (both of them screaming at the top of their lungs) and sent a text to my family for prayer. I know they all prayed (my mom had to call too to make sure I was ok, surprise, surprise). Within 5 minutes of that text both kids were silently sleeping in bed. Small miracle, I know, but one that was very evident to me. I had been trying to have these results for the last 2 hours!

I am finally sitting at the computer with a cup of coffee and some much needed time with God. Whenever I have "this" feeling, I always resort to Isaiah 40.... it's my comfort chapter, and I'm pretty confident I have most of it memorized. Here was today's favorite part....

Isaiah 40:11

"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young."

Spirit Week

2011-10-07T11:33:00.000-04:00

This week was Spirit Week at Isaac's School and there were so many fun activities. Yesterday was "TIGER DAY" and Isaac couldn't wait to come home and watch the Tigers win! Today is his "FUN WALK" and he is so excited to see his Principal get a pie in the face.

no longer for sale!

2011-10-06T08:51:00.000-04:00

the sign in front of our new home!

Well, the day is FINALLY here...

we are closing on our new house at 4pm today!!!!

I don't remember the last time I have been so excited!

There are so many things to do....

Zoey wants a Cinderella room.

Isaac wants the boys to have a room and the girls to have a room

(this plan would include Chris and I)

There have been talks of a climbing wall, an indoor trampoline, a tree house, a music room and merry-go-round.

Isaac and Zoey were talking yesterday in the car about how they like sleeping in the same bed... they had big plans on how to make sure that would still work, but they could still have their own rooms. It was so cute! It was also a reminder that this season in our life where things were a little displaced, the kids still enjoyed their life and experiences. Whew!

Back to Blakes

2011-10-04T23:26:00.000-04:00

It was field-trip day for Zoey's 3-year-old Preschool class and all her friends were by her side. I love having time to hang out with my little girl and give her some undivided attention. She has so much personality!

Isaac Week

2011-10-04T23:11:00.000-04:00

This week is "ISAAC WEEK" in his Kindergarten class and we spent lots of time putting his presentation poster together. I love that his wish is "that everyone can know God and that I can be in Star Wars." That is SO Isaac!

Bring-A-Friend

2011-10-04T23:09:00.000-04:00

Saturday was "Bring-A-Friend-To-Hockey" Day and Isaac was so excited Drew was going to be there! Thanks Poxon family for coming out and hanging out with us! Drew, you look good in a jersey!

The boys in their gear.

Ready to go!

We may be signing this big guy up for hockey sooner than we thought!

He was so tired!

Isaac's 1st shot at goalie.

The girls making the time pass.

What does jealous mean?

2011-10-02T12:45:00.002-04:00

Isaac: Mom, what does "jealous" mean?

Me: It means that you are upset because you want
something someone else has.

Isaac: That doesn't make sense...
then why did that song just say that God is jealous?

(We were listening to the song "Spiritual Revolution" by Jake Hamilton where is says, "You are the standard. You are jealous, and I believe You have called me to be holy, I can't retreat")

The conversation that took place after that question was so intense, and I loved every minute of it. It was one of the 1st steps in my children understanding the unconditional, ravishing love of their Creator! If you have never done an in-depth study on the "Jealousy of God" I encourage you to do so...

you will never be the same again!

Exodus 34:14
"Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God."

Deuteronomy 4:23,24

Take care, lest you forget the covenant of the LORD your God, which he made with you, andmake a carved image, the form of anything that the LORD your God has forbidden you. For the LORD your God is a consuming fire,a jealous God.

Here it is in a nutshell:

God's very name is Jealous. The jealousy of the flesh says "you have something I want and I hate you for it." The jealousy of El Qanna is a zeal that arises when sin threatens a covenant relationship. El Qanna arose in God to the extent of the sacrifice of His only Son.

is it everything you dreamed it would be?

2011-09-29T08:16:00.000-04:00

Me: On the day of our wedding, is this what you thought it would look like 10 years later?

Chris: Absolutely.

To the guy who has given me everything that is important and works his tail off to keep it that way: I love you more now than I ever have before.

Happy 10th Anniversary!

Elijah's Dedication and 1st Birthday Party

2011-09-27T09:14:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday our lil' man Elijah Christopher was dedicated to the Lord at our church. You don't realize how big our family is until you see them all on one stage! We all have a lot of kids.... and more on the way! We are so blessed by our incredible friends and family and the support they have given us in raising our children to be more like Jesus. Thank you to everyone who came out to pray for Elijah!

After the dedication, we headed over to the cider mill to celebrate Elijah's 1st birthday. There was cider, donuts, and kids everywhere. We LOVED it! Elijah loved all his presents, his smash-cake (Thanks you Aunt Nina!) and all his cousins constantly around. Did I mention we are so blessed?

a heavy heart.

2011-09-22T10:08:00.001-04:00

I woke up with some things heavy on my heart.

Some things I wanted to say to my kids.

They aren't easy things.... but they are important things.

my baby is growing up!

2011-09-21T00:00:00.001-04:00

Happy 1st Birthday Elijah Christopher!

YOU LOVE: grapes, dancing, bikes, taking your socks off, cuddling with mama in the morning, laughing at Isaac in the car, wrestling, peek-a-boo, taunting Poppy's kitty, watermelon, playing with your hair while you drink your bottle, answering the phone saying "oh?", and animal crackers.

Happy Birthday Elijah (or Lie-G-Boo, as your sister calls you). We love you more than you will ever know and have so much fun watching you discover life each and every day. You are our wild-card, and we crack up when we see you take chances that the other 2 kids never did. Pretty soon you won't be the baby anymore, and that makes your mom really sad. You are so loved!

has she really only been around for 3 years?

2011-09-20T13:39:00.000-04:00

Today was Zoey's 3-year-old check-up and she is one heathly little girl!

20th percentile for her height. (3 feet tall exactly.)

20th percentile for her weight. (28.8 lbs.)

After the doctor was done with Zoey, she got out the Doppler so that she could hear the baby. I don't think any of my kids have been a part of that before. As soon as the doctor turned it on, Zoey asked what the baby was going to say... it was so cute. She loved hearing the heartbeat and ran in to tell daddy what it sounded like.

simplicity.

2011-09-14T09:02:00.000-04:00

"...the simplicity that is in Christ."

2 Corinthians 11:3

Simplicity is the secret to seeing things clearly.

...when our natural power of sight is devoted and submitted in obedience to the Holy Spirit, it becomes the very power by which we perceive God’s will, and our entire life is kept in simplicity.

-Oswald Chambers

Read the entire entry for today's My Utmost here.

i totally have a crush on him.

2011-09-14T00:34:00.000-04:00

This year Chris and I will have been married for 10 years.

We had big plans... plans I started making the 1st year we got married.

Then we found out we were having another baby this year.

Our plans changed.

Our life is like that.

I love our life.

We ended up having a few days away.

It was some of the best days of my life.

Special thanks to my parents for loving on my kids so Chris and I could have some time together. It was the best anniversary gift we could have ever received!

Our Little Nugget

2011-09-10T22:08:00.001-04:00

Isaac started his hockey season tonight with "Little Nuggets."

He loved it!

Elijah @ 11 months

2011-09-10T22:00:00.001-04:00

you have walking down
you LOVE blueberries and corn
you are never put off by obstacles of any kind
you have the cutest laugh
you love when people tickle your toes
you can climb pretty much anything
you have now mastered the "zoey-scream"
you love dancing to music
you can say "dada", "mama", "buba" and "done"
your face lights up when you hear your daddy's voice
you are one ACTIVE 11 month old!

Kaeden's Carnival

2011-09-10T21:52:00.000-04:00

Today was cousin Kaeden's 3rd birthday party... and we were invited over for the carnival! Can I just say that I am so blessed to be related to Nate and April, they did an incredible job pulling off a birthday party everyone could enjoy! Happy Birthday Kaeden!

I didn't cry at all... take THAT pregnancy hormones!

2011-09-06T13:19:00.001-04:00

So the day finally came... and everyone did exceptionally well.

I didn't cry, but I must have had some sort of crazy look on my face because Chris asked me if I was ok about a dozen times. When I picked him up, he told me he was happy he made a lot of new friends, but was sad they didn't go outside to play. I assured him he will have plenty of time for that.

So here we are... parents of a Kindergartener... and so completely proud!

Kindergarten 2011

2011-09-06T13:10:00.011-04:00

A stolen idea from Nina. I love it!

feeling a little left-out

2011-09-06T13:07:00.000-04:00

"Mom, when can I go to Kindergarten?"

Uh-oh.... I think someone was feeling a little left-out hearing all the "Isaac's-going-to-Kindergarten" talk. We decided that a special breakfast was just the cure... a little time for her to talk about herself. She loved her hot chocolate and bagel, and didn't mind the undivided attention either. We love you Zo! Just a couple more years... yikes!

Me and Jedidah

2011-09-05T23:50:00.000-04:00

My son starts Kindergarten tomorrow.

He is all packed and ready to go.

I love his new backpack more than he does.

I don't remember my 1st day of Kindergarten.

I do remember learning to tie my shoelaces that year, though.

We read about King Josiah tonight before bed.

He was 8-years-old when he became king.

His voice had not changed yet.

My son thought that was super cool.

An 8-year-old king.

I wonder what his mother, Jedidah, thought the night before he was crowned.

She probably made him go to bed at a decent hour too.

Why is it always hot at the zoo?

2011-09-04T22:25:00.000-04:00

Zoey had a field trip with her Preschool class and was so excited the boys and I were going to tag along.

Trying very hard not to be psycho mom...

2011-08-30T21:53:00.000-04:00

The kids and I attended Isaac's Kindergarten Orientation this morning. We saw his desk, his locker, his cubby and met his very sweet teacher, Mrs. Rose. Two seconds after we were greeted by his teacher at the door, Isaac was over in the corner playing trucks with the 3 new friends he met. This kid is so adaptable! His eyes got so big when he saw the library, the gym and the cafeteria... this school is much bigger than his Preschool!

How am I doing?

Ask me on his first day of class.

Right now I am just trying to process the fact that my son has a locker!

Now entering the Terrific Threes!

2011-08-28T22:57:00.000-04:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Zo-Zo!

YOU LOVE: cinderella, popsicles, hand lotion, raisins, the caboose on a train, carrying your purse on your shoulder, cuddling with daddy, upsetting your older brother, red robin, strawberry ice cream, blueberries, nail polish and anything the color pink.

THINGS YOU WANTED FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY: a cinderella cake, pink plates and napkins, a pink kid-laptop, a cinderella bed, a vanity, a cash register, and anything cinderella.

We love you so much Zo, and have seen so much growth in you this past year. You can go potty by yourself, you can memorize scriptures, you know how to get along with your brothers and are slowly learning how to manage your emotions. We couldn't love you more if we tried!!!

Love, Daddy and Mommy

Zoey's Cinderella Party

2011-08-28T22:40:00.002-04:00

My baby girl is 3 years old!

All she wanted was a "Cinderella" party, so we did our best to oblige. She was incredibly blessed by all her wonderful family members and had so much fun swimming with her cousins. Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone for making her day so special!

My Annual Favorite Sunday Service.

2011-08-21T21:38:00.001-04:00

cousins

2011-08-20T22:28:00.001-04:00

Maddy went "Kung-Fu Panda" on Isaac.

S'Mores

2011-08-20T22:09:00.000-04:00

Our August CONNECT was a S'Mores Bar after Friday night prayer.

Thanks to the huge crowd who stuck around afterward!

Loving the Little Years

2011-08-20T21:45:00.000-04:00

I read the most incredible book today.

Seriously... it was a game-changer.

It's called "Loving the Little Years: Motherhood in the Trenches" by Rachel Jankovic

Unfortunately, I don't have much time for reading, so this 100 page book was perfect for the few hours I had to myself today. It was a book given to me by one of the women in my life who I consider a spiritual mentor and it was an incredible read... super easy too. Each chapter is only a few pages long, so you can pick it up and put it down as needed.

If you are a mom of young children, PLEASE consider picking this book and reading it. I laughed, I cried and I changed my entire perspective. Here are a couple of the things the author said that I had to close the book to ponder more.

"I can no longer be overwhelmed...

it's time to adjust to the work load God has given me."

"The state of your heart is the state of your home."

.. and then the entire chapter entitled "Know Your Sheep" messed me up pretty good. She talked about the fact that Christian child-rearing is a pastoral pursuit, not a organizational challenge. Wow! I definitely needed to hear that today!

Anyway, just wanted to share my newest find and the fact that it gave me the encouragement I needed during a very hectic time. Plus, I am happy to say that I was able to try the award winning "Coconut Lemongrass Latte" from Espresso Elevado.. and yes, it tastes just like it sounds.

being insecure about my insecurities

2011-08-19T09:46:00.001-04:00

I think pregnancy is a breeding ground for insecurity.

Other than looking different, in the natural nothing has changed: my kids have bad days and good days, there is always work to be done at church, I always need something from the grocery store, and God is still on the throne... but sometimes, for some reason (usually when pregnant), things get overwhelming and I feel like I am dropping all the balls. Am I doing enough? Am I even a "fun" mom anymore? Does God still see me? Does anyone care? Am I a nightmare to be around? Am I alone?

I know the answers to all of these questions.... well, most of them.... but I still deal with them, more so on physically challenging days. This morning as I was getting ready to throw myself a pity party, I thought of my mom- mostly because I miss her (she is overseas). Growing up, I never saw my mom deal with insecurities. I know now over tear filled lunches at Panera (my tears, not hers) that she dealt with them, but she always resorted to the truth. By truth, I mean that God is in control, that we only need to worry about what He thinks and He gives us the strength to be all that we are required to be.

So, my conclusion for today is that no matter how I feel... THE TRUTH STILL REMAINS. My insecurities don't change God... He is the same yesterday, today and forever (which is good to know, because I am NOT the same... especially with these extra hormones). Thanks mom for always reminding me that our emotions change, but truth does not.

Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

brother and sister

2011-08-18T21:20:00.000-04:00

1/2 the time they are best friends.

The other 1/2 they are fighting tooth and nail.

I'll take it.

we have a walker

2011-08-18T21:15:00.001-04:00

Well, it's not quite official, because he isn't doing it more than once a day... but our little man has taken his 1st steps! I think the farthest he has gone is 8 steps.

Yay Elijah!!!! The craziest part is jumping up and down is his favorite past-time.

Summer REACH

2011-08-17T23:17:00.000-04:00

I was challenged tonight.

So challenged that I can't think about anything else.

Let me explain:

We are in the middle of a series in youth called "Summer REACH" and every week we leave our church building and do something in the community. Last week was "SERVE the City" and our group passed out free bottles of water to everyone at a local park. This week was "PRAY for the City" and we headed out to our local high school and middle school to pray. I drove some of our Junior Highers to our local middle school and we spent about 1/2 hour walking around and praying for the students that would be attending there in a couple weeks. Seeing my students lay hands on the bike racks and entrance doors completely rocked my world. I have been praying intensely for our students as they are heading back to school in the fall... but have never prayed specifically for their schools. At that moment I was challenged to do something I've never done before: I committed to all of my students that I would visit their schools in the next 3 weeks to pray. I have a list of 15 schools and a burden for all of them. (Well, 16 actually... I'm adding my son's school to that as well). My prayer is that God would use this generation to change this generation. Will you join with me in prayer?

"Prayer is our most formidable weapon, the thing which makes all else we do efficient."
- E. M. Bounds

check-ups

2011-08-17T12:32:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was check-up day, and boy was it a trip.

Imagine, if you will, being pregnant and taking 3 kids to the DR by yourself... trying to squat down to help your eldest son with his urine sample, while holding your 10 month old and telling your 2-yr-old daughter not to touch anything. It was hilarious.... for everyone else. However, I am happy to report that we have very healthy children.... even if they have a very tired mother.

Isaac: 45 lbs. and 3ft. 7in.

Zoey: 28 lbs. (didn't get her height)

Elijah: 20 lbs. and 29 inches

Baby in Belly: approx. 1.5 lbs. and 13 inches

summer fun.

2011-08-14T21:04:00.001-04:00

I have been awful at taking pictures this summer.

Most of the time I just forget to bring my camera.

That doesn't mean that our summer has been uneventful, just a little undocumented. Here are a couple of very random pictures of our fun summer.

backfire

2011-08-11T14:36:00.000-04:00

I think I am one of those parents.

You know, the ones who try to take every single opportunity to teach their kids something. I think it was ingrained in me from my mother.... I blame her.

Today we were driving and the kids saw a bunch of people standing on the side of the road.

Isaac: What are all those people doing, mom?

Me: They are waiting for the bus.

Isaac: Why don't they just drive their car?

Me: Well, not everyone has a car (and wait for it) We should take time right now to thank God for blessing us with a car.

Isaac: Ok... Thanks God for blessing us... but why didn't you bless those people?

daddy's camera is pretty cool.

2011-08-11T10:18:00.001-04:00

Brain Dump on a Tuesday

2011-08-09T12:59:00.002-04:00

Brain Dump on a Tuesday

Why, oh why, did I feel it was a good idea to do "Dance, Dance, Revolution" last night?
My daughter Zoey collects rocks every time we walk to the car... the ones you find in the parking lot... the ones that are actually pieces of broken concrete.
I want nothing more than a ice-cold cherry limeade from Sonic. An extra-large.
I hate doing laundry.
Everyone is getting a nap today...whether they like it or not.
I've rediscovered Sprite.
I miss my stuff. My candles that I just got from Bath and Body Works and put directly into a storage bin. My Anthropologie coffee mug. My cookbooks. My sanity.
I don't take enough pictures of Elijah.
I want to go to Turks and Caicos.... and Zimbabwe.
I wish my hair was naturally the color of my daughter's.
I am going to go now and join everyone for nap-time.

Success

2011-08-03T14:22:00.000-04:00

Success BEFORE having children:

Spring cleaning my house from top to bottom and organizing all my closets