My Eye's View

My own family shoot

2012-02-02T10:24:00.000-08:00

When you're a photographer, it's hard to find someone to do your family pictures! When you're a photographer you also get to know other photographers, which makes finding someone to do your family pictures a bit easier! :) (It was very strange for me to be on the other side of the camera.....)

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My family! :)

Favorite!

3 of my guys

All 4 of my guys!

Silly boys!

Love!

Wonder if they'll be this way for life?!?!

Thank you to my very talented friend, Anne Gaskill for capturing my family so well! These are picturs I will treasure for a lifetime!

Just skippin over winter! :)

2012-02-02T10:19:00.000-08:00

Terrible blogger ~ looks like I've not done anything since October ~ ahhh, wouldn't that have been nice?

Jackson's always being goofy!

Braydon always wants to be naked!

And this guy.....Christopher always has me laughing!

My 3 loves!

Too many months have passed to catch up with pictures, so we'll go into February with a recent shot of my trio!

A day in preschool

2011-10-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Some circle time before their movement class

Jackson was the calendar helper today. He had to count all the way to 14!

Braydon was the prayer leader today! I had to wipe some tears to get this one!

Magical Movement class....this is all of them, minus one little girl, who was out today

Hard at work matching numbers and counting to 5!

They don't really 'play' with other children and seem to search for each other when someone comes over to play.

Except this little girl....she seems to have a 'thing' for my Jackson. She's a cutie and is a very bright girl!

I do love that there are 8 other little friends with a total of 16 little other hands to hold and the hands they choose to hold are each others! <3

Here's a closer look! Nothing could possibly be closer than twins!

He's paying close attention to the story!

Jackson too!

I got to spend the morning in class with Braydon and Jackson today. Every month I have to volunteer to be in the class 2 times ~ it's a co op school and I'm loving it. This was my 2nd time in the class and can't wait to go back (already) on Tuesday! The boys do really well having me in there and don't seem to mind if I have to walk out with another little girl. I say girl, because they are the ONLY 2 boys in their class of 10. That's right ~ 8 little girls and 2 little boys and 1 very patient teacher. They do love their school days!

Soccer Star

2011-10-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

After the ball

Huge kick

He powered thru HIS team and the other team to get that ball....

2011-09-26T20:33:00.001-07:00

I've not had a chance to blog lately. I've been busy being busy with....well, life! It's been crazy in all sorts of ways ~ sometimes I close my eyes and see this......and it all slows down.

Peaceful

A photo shoot attempt.....

2011-08-20T10:53:00.001-07:00

It always seems to be harder when it's my boys I take on a shoot ~ they won't listen or smile "normal" and never wanna look at the camera! I suppose it's normal! Either way, it was an adventure....and a great little walk we had!

These are their 7 year old and 3.5 year old shots (at 7 and 3 months and 3 and 9 months!)

I must remember these words!

2011-08-12T07:27:00.001-07:00

“Letting go doesn’t mean we don’t care. Letting go doesn’t mean we shut down.
Letting go means we stop trying to force outcomes and make people behave.
It means we give up resistance to the way things are, for the moment.
It means we stop trying to do the impossible–controlling that which
we cannot–and instead, focus on what is possible–which usually means
taking care of ourselves. And we do this in gentleness, kindness,
and love, as much as possible.”
~Melody Beattie

Runaway father

2011-08-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

I've come to a point in my world that I can't hide from my past and can only look towards the future and all the exciting things that lie ahead.

There's a very long story here, about 37 years worth, so I won't bore you with details....those are details I'm filing away in my head, trying to make sense of them.

The short story is ~ My dad and step mom are out of my life. For good. As of June 5. I don't expect to hear from them in a month, by next June or even when my boys graduate from Kindergarten. They have made their choices loud and clear and it's up to me to move along, with my boys and do my very best to be a mommy. A parent.

I will heal from this. But I have go grieve this loss first. I've hidden his alcoholisim all my life and I won't (and can't) hide the fact that's he's walked out on my life. I have to let him go.....and can't do that without first admitting it.

I'll find a box just the right size, put all that goes along with them into that box, close the lid and shove it on the shelf, high in my closet. He is my dad....I can't change that. I can't change the past ~ I can only look to the future and believe.....

July 16

2011-07-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

Until last July 16, it was just a day ~ it was always just "3 more days until my birthday" day, or a fun summer break day, until last year. July 16 marks a year since I lost my dear, sweet Lennie man. I had such a wonderful life with Lennie, as abnormal as it sounds, he really was my best friend. There 24/7, year after year, tear after tear, walk after walk, giggle after giggle, bone after bone, snuggle after snuggle.

I remember when he wasn't able to jump on the bed to snuggle me anymore and I'd wake up and go get in his bed to snuggle him instead. I miss that.

I remember how he wouldn't leave my side ~ always under my feet. I miss that.

I remember how nervous I was to have a baby and have him feel left out.

I remember his bark, his smell, his nose, his eyes, the way his paws sounded when he was walking down the hall. I miss that.

I try to remember everything I can about Lennie. I try to not let it go. I want to remember him.

Abot 6 months ago, I put Lennie's guardian angel tag on Hanna's colar (I wouldn't trade our girl for the world ~ she surely knew how to mend a broken heart when she wagged her way into our life just the day after Lennie died) and never mentioned it. Lennie wore if for almost 16 years and I felt like Hanna should have it, so I took it off his colar and put it on hers. Last Friday, I put Hanna in her crate.....I had cleaned and vaccumed the whole house and nobody/nothing had walked on my vaccum lines leading to her crate ~ which is across from my dresser, which holds Lennie's urn. Hanna was behind me, I got to my dresser, I see Lennie's angel tag laying on the floor, on my untouched vaccum lines, right infront of Lennie's urn....the tag was broken and fallen off....RIGHT THERE in front of Lennie's ashes. Not in the snow 6 months ago, or on the last long walk we went on, or at the park...RIGHT THERE, RIGHT THEN! On the back, it reads "Guide me safely home"....Lennie is home. He sends me signs all the time, he sent Hanna for me for goodness sake. I'd give most anything to have Lennie back, in good health and happy, I really would. Sometimes I miss him so much my heart hurts in ways I didn't know possible. Silly?? Some may say it is silly to feel so strongly for a dog ~ I say those people have never loved a dog like I have. The pain is very real ~ and the hurt will lessen in time, I know!

My life was blessed with 16 years with an amazingly trusting, loyal, and faithful dog. Lennie man, you are missed every day here on earth, but I know you're watching and protecting .... just like always! Thank you for sending Hanna to us ~ she's a dolly ~ and reminds us very much of you, esp how she races around and all 4 paws go infront of or behind each other very fast.....and she begs ~ just like you! I don't think I could have gotten thru this past year as easily if it weren't for our Hanna girl....she fits us well!!! I love you forever, Lennie......

Girls weekend....

2011-07-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

Well, girls night away is more like it, but just the same, it was wonderful!

5 girlfriends, all with the bond of having multiples, which is a bond nothing can compare to. Who else knows the everyday struggles of raising multiples on a day to day basis? 5 women, who happen to be moms to (between us, including Christopher and the set of triplets, 12 children!) were well deserving of a night away on the Rivah.....so, we Rocked the Rivah for a night.

I packed my bag with my bathin suit and pj's and my toothbrush, watershoes and towel. My food, drink of choice, and cell phone charger....and we all met there for a fun, relaxing night to just be....just be!

Lunch, floating our afternoon away in the Rivah, drinks, conversation, stories, giggles, more food, crab boil....with live crabs, more conversation, more drinks, more food while we waited for the crabs, giggles, some more conversation and stories, some tears, some hand holding, late night conversation with dessert.....and then to our beds to yell out our "goodnights" to each other, very Walton style. A FULL UNINTURUPTED NIGHTS SLEEP ~ AS IN, UNTIL 9AM ~ FULL, some morning conversations on the sundeck over Dt. Cokes and coffee, some breakfast, conversations and giggles and just being together......

It was wonderful ~ well deserved and much needed.

It couldn't have happened for me without my better half. I am so thankful to have my best friend, my partner in life, Kevin ~ who helps makes it possible for me to get away! He's a good guy......

Oh, and do you know who quick 5 mommies can strip beds, do dishes, tidy up, load the cars, vaccum and clean a house?? Under 20 minutes!

Mom's visit

2011-07-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

We love when mom (AKA Grama) comes to visit! She's simply fun!! The boys ADORE her simply cause she's GRAMA! I wish she'd move closer ~ really I do! But for now, the visits will have to do every 6 months or so!

He's 7

2011-05-26T19:24:00.000-07:00

7 years ago, I didn't know if I'd be blessed with a boy or a girl, just that I couldn't wait to become a mommy! 7 years ago, I didn't know what to do with a baby, just that I couldn't wait to learn. 7 years ago, I didn't know what a mother's love felt like, from the giving end.....only from the recieving end. 7 years ago, God answered my prayers and he sent me you.

Happy birthday, Christopher! I love you to the moon and back buddy ~ forever and never! xoxo

Test Test

2011-05-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

I hit some button to do something "new" to my blog...but I don't know what I hit, exactly.

I thought it might be the button I can add captions to my pictures, but I don't think so......I suppose I'll post and see what looks different....I'll never get this thing figured out!

Date Day ...... times 3

2011-05-14T15:15:00.000-07:00

What a fun day ~ I had 3 different dates with 3 different boys! Calling me crazy??? Call me LUCKY!

I thought we'd have a "get ready for Christopher's birthday, cause I've not done much for it so far" kinda day, so I started my date with Christopher. We went to the party store to pick out plates and napkins and some fun goodie bag stuff. Then I had to make a quick pet sitting stop, so he helped, sorta!

After the little guys woke up from naps, I took Jackson out first ~ ALONE ~ without Braydon....and we weren't going to a doctor, for surgery or the emergency room! It was fun to watch them say goodbye and know they were going all alone. They even hugged goodbye! Jackson and I went to Target to get his birthday gift for Christopher and M&M's for him!

An hour or so of walking the aisles, enjoying the heck outta shopping with one (1....ONE!!!!!) kid and getting lost in getting that 1 on 1 time with just Jackson....since it's never really happened! We left for me to switch boys, so I dropped of Jackson to find Braydon with his shoes on and asking when it was his turn for a date ..... heart melt!

So, off we went to Target....to get Chrisotpher's birthday gift! Our first date ~ ALONE ~ without Jackson. When we left there was no time for hugs....Braydon was ready.

I had a great time ~ and learned a few things ~ Braydon is fine without Jackson around, Jackson really missed Braydon and asked about him several times. They both did ask about the other at almost the exact same spot in the store. They both asked to ride in the buggy vs. walk (until the toy section of course) cause (insert B or J here) wasn't there. They both "surfed" on the buggy, holding onto the side, but each were on different sides and they have NEVER "surfed" on a buggy before and didn't mention the surfing on buggys when we changed boys. They all 3 loved having me all to them self and I loved having them all to myself ~ one on one ~ even if just for a few minutes of my day!

I've done dates with Christopher and Braydon and Jackson together, but never Braydon and Jackson apart ~ that's gonna change! I already can't wait for date night ~ or afternoon ~ or shopping ~ or a drive ~ I just like having them alone.....all to myself, just for a bit, cause man ~ they sure do grow fast!

My Mother's Day....

2011-05-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

I hope Mother's Day was a day full of love for each of you, remembering those who "made" you who you are today! Being a mom is simply my greatest joy ~ these boys are my heart, my breath, my soul!

Spring....

2011-05-01T05:54:00.000-07:00

A perfect spring day includes a big box, a spur of the moment picnic and a tree, with 3 boys.......Life IS Good!

Spring Break week

2011-04-21T15:35:00.001-07:00

It's been a busy spring break week! 3 boys home all day makes for 1 tired mommy.

I.Can.Not.Wait.Until.Summer.......MOST days! :)

One of my favorite places....

2011-04-14T16:51:00.000-07:00

EVER! I love taking the boys to Lewis Ginter, there's always something fun to do, a new flower to see or a butterfly to chase. It always tires them out and they LOVE it there almost as much as I do! I like to go there alone too and just sit and listen and close my eyes and breathe it all in. I meet several clients there for photoshoots and almost EVERY time I arrive 15 minutes early to have that "me" time that only a garden can give. Lewis Ginter IS one of my favorite places....EVER!

Hanna's not a pup

2011-04-12T19:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl! Thanks for finding us!

My sweet Hanna is 1 today ~ give or take a day or so. I don't know what I would have done without her since she's been in our family. Sure, we've lost some shoes and some toys, even a door frame since July of last year, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

My boys

2011-04-12T19:37:00.000-07:00

Just being them.....

Still thankful, maybe even more so.

2011-04-08T04:56:00.000-07:00

After back to back news of losing old friends back home, I'm reminded, I am thankful.

Life is too short, tho some days may make it seem long.
Life is unscripted and raw, but somehow we usually know what to do.
Life is unexpected and surprising, it would be boring otherwise.
Life happens. Ready or not. Life happens.
Good and Bad.
Happy and Sad.

Life is too short, but Life is Good.
A good reminder to always say I love you.

**I love you**

I am thankful

2011-04-05T19:45:00.000-07:00

I have lots to be thankful for.

A family.
Laughter.
A home.
Good health.
Love.
Friends.
Faith.

I am thankful!

Soccer Season is HERE!

2011-04-05T05:04:00.000-07:00

My loves

2011-02-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

2011-02-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

I've been terrible about blogging. Taking pictures. Keeping up. My guys hit 3 in December, we went to the doctor for their 3 year old check up a month later, and now I'll post their "stats" even a month after that!

So, for Braydon's 3 year check up, done a month late and posted 2 months later....
He is 32.6lbs (50%) and 37 1/4" long (25-50%) He passed his "eye" test and they did his BP, which was 98/50. He loved taking his deep breaths for Dr. Mapp and letting him check his "knee kicks" the best. Braydon's eating isn't what it should be, he's just not a big eater and he's small. He's healthy, just small. HE had to go first, cause Jackson was in the background telling Dr. Mapp he wasn't ready and to look at Braydon first.

So, after B's good check over, Jackson's 3 year check up, done a month late and posted 2 months later.....
He is 36.6lbs (75-90%) and 39 1/2" (75-90%). He did not pass his eye test, which tests for lazy eye, so we'll retest in 6 months. His BP was 96/42. He was pretty good, drooly and ticklish. I think he's certainly my more "reserved" boy, not as willing to try something until Braydon and Christopher have done it. He's also my more clutzy boy, just like me, he can trip right over his own two feet. I think he'll be the one in the ER this summer for stiches or a broken arm.

They both had to get a Prevnar booster and a few tears and a lollipop later, we were out the door and on our way home, 3 year old boys! Wow!

Weight Loss ~ almost 1 year

2011-02-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

What a journey the last 11 months have been. I started Weight Watchers in March last year, at the end after I had my last bag of Cadbury eggs, you know the ones in the purple bag??? Not a small bag, but a HUGE bag. I ate everyone of them and never looked back. Weight Watchers was a great teaching tool for me. I didn't enjoy the meetings, but I did learn about food and it's "point value" and that eating a whole bag of those eggs plus breakfast, lunch and dinner and other snacks throughout the day was NOT the way I needed to ditch my baby weight. Well, toddler weight, since the twins were almost 3. Well, no young man weight may be more like it.....since I never lost the weight I gained from Christopher when we found out we were expecting twins. So, I continued with Weight Watchers to gain my confidence that I COULD do this weight loss thing. I wanted to see 5 lbs go, then 10, then I set my goal at 30 ~ and got a beautiful anniversary/congrats/you did it/birthday/Christmas/Easter ring from my honey. However, it needs to be sized, cause since my 30, I've lost 40 more......I am proud to say that I've lost both my toddler and little boy weight. I've dropped 70 pounds in 11 months. It's been a wake up call, as to how unhealthy I was and what I feel like doing now, that I didn't feel like doing then. I did this for ME....and so I can be healthier for my boys and it feels good! Thanks to everyone for the support along the way ~ I couldn't have done it without you!

Eyes

2011-02-03T09:55:00.000-08:00

My next set of pictures to frame...... ;)

1 year without Foster

2011-02-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

It's been a year since I lost my sweet Foster T Cat. He brought me 16 years of happiness, teaching me all along the way how to be more of a cat person! I wouldn't trade those years with him for anything! I miss you everyday, Fossie my angel!

Cartwheels and Coffee

2011-01-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

I met my friend, Katie with her little ones at a cute little coffee/play place downtown. There was even a little sing-a-long with Mr. Chris (who worked there) and GUESS WHO GOT ON STAGE????? ;)

Gimme 5!

2011-01-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011

2010-12-31T21:45:00.000-08:00

Here's to a healthy, happy, and fun 2011 to each and every one of you. Live each day, always let those you love know just how much you do and don't forget to laugh along the way!

One of 3 boys and his dog!

2010-12-28T12:01:00.000-08:00

I don't think words are needed!

A little snow

2010-12-23T21:15:00.000-08:00

THe boys love the snow this year! Christopher is doing a great job teaching them all the ins and outs of snowballs, sledding, snow angels and catching snowflakes as they fall! Bring on some more ....

Poor Little Buddy!

2010-12-23T21:13:00.000-08:00

This is how I found him after naptime! :) Silly boy!

The Unity Tree

2010-12-22T17:58:00.000-08:00

Christopher has a big debut in his 1st Grade play "The Unity Tree". He was a cat and did WONDERFUL memorizing all of his speaking parts (all FIVE!).

The cats and dogs didn't like each other, cause they were different. There was a puppy and kitten who became friends and turned out, ALL the cats and ALL the dogs figured that even tho they are different, they CAN get along and CAN be friends! So, they all decided to play around the ONE tree that was the "line" they never crossed.....The Unity Tree!

It was wonderfully done and his class did a terrific job! I'm so proud of each of them! :)

Bikes and Pedals

2010-12-22T17:56:00.000-08:00

Guess who learned to pedal their bikes? :)

Let's build something together

2010-12-22T17:32:00.000-08:00

Lowe's has great workshops for the kids ~ this past Saturday (the boys bday morning) we went to build a train ~ AND IT WAS GREAT! Choo-Choo! What a great way to spend a (free) Saturday morning! Thanks, Lowe's!

Happy LATE 3rd birthday boys

2010-12-22T17:04:00.000-08:00

I've been so behind on everything since this silly surgery ~ blogging is one of them!

My sweet little boys celebrated their 3rd birthday on Saturday the 18th. THREE!! All day long they would sing Happy Birthday to themselves or to each other ~ ALL DAY LONG! We had cupcakes (with no icing on a few for them...weird, I know!) and a big chocolate 3 cookie (that did end up looking more like a 3 than a pile of poo after I decorated it!) Chris and the boys came over, along with my dad, stepmom and Mrs. Schuster. Was a fun afternoon! Our "friend" party at Pump It Up was the first of December, before all the hussle and bussle of the holidays! What fun we had with all our friends ~ and with sets of twins and triplets as friends the party ends up being pretty big!

Braydon loves to smile, loves to read his books and have you read them to him, he loves to sing his ABC's, loves his gymnastics class and is still completely in love with his Little Buddy, loves to be outside and can't get enough Dora and Diego. He learned to pedal his big wheel about a week before he hit 3....all by himself! He finally started to drink "milkshakes", which is just the most expensive mini smoothie you can buy, but HE LOVES THEM AND HE'LL EAT THEM! He's still my small fry, at 30lbs (I found Christopher's 15 month check up sheet and he weighed 31.2 AT 15 MONTHS!), but we've finally put all the 24 month and 2T clothes away! :) Braydon is a snuggle bug and will sit with us and hold our hands as long as well let him! He is still really shy and does this "tongue thing" when he gets in trouble or in a situation he's not comfy in. He has my heart!

Jackson loves to laugh and has the best laugh ever! He loves to dance and sing and play with his trucks. He is great in his gymnastics class and loves to go each week. He still has his Big Dog, but seems to be only attached to his cause Braydon is attached to his Little Buddy. He loves to sleep with kitchen utensils, like getters or big wooden spoons and make "ice cream or hot chocolate" as he's drifting to sleep. He eats everything and anything and isn't afraid to let Braydon know "I'll eat it" when he sees Braydon doesn't want something. He is my funny boy and finds laughter everywhere he goes. He's my big guy, 5 lbs bigger than Braydon, weighing in around 36. We've had to put some of the 3T clothes away from him and get into the 4T box. He's still shy as well, but is starting to break out of his shell a little bit when he's not in his comfort zone. Neither boy will speak much if they aren't familiar with their surroundings and certainly won't talk to strangers, which isn't bad and I don't really mind that! He has my heart!

There's certainly a big size difference in the boys, they have lots of differences. They've become their own person over the past year and it's been amazing to watch! They absolutely LOVE to be together and really are the best of friends. They can't be apart in a line (say at gymnastics) and do everything they can to stand together, they can't go to bed unless they are both going to bed, they can't take a bath alone, even eating a snack or a drink ~ they have and want to do it together! They are amazing little boys and I am so thankful to be the one in charge of this wonderful adventure! I wouldn't have it any other way!

Happy Birthday my dear Braydon!
Happy Birthday my dear Jackson!

I am your biggest fans, I love you more than you could ever know and I am simply in awe of you each and every day! Thank you for all you teach me....everyday it's something new! I am so incredibly blessed!

To be the mom to 3 such amazing boys ~ I could never ask for more! I love watching them grow and learn and laugh and live and love and try. This past year, Jackson and Braydon have done BIG things .... things I am so proud of!

Recovering

2010-12-15T11:40:00.001-08:00

So so SO comfy and cozy! What a great snuggler and what a great blankie to snggle under! :)

My boys

2010-12-01T05:09:00.000-08:00

I love my boys! I love each one of them in a way I never knew possible. I love being their mom, everything about it! This is an amazing ride and I never want it to end! I love finding little reminders around! Like a toy buggy full of their "groceries" (which I end up having to put back over and over), piles of books in their beds (which I have to put back on the bookshelf every time they get up), toothpaste trails in the sink and towels (which I have to clean almost every day), playdoh under my kitchen table (which I have to pick up or the dog will eat it), half eaten food put "away" (which I have to toss and clean up where said food was left), slimy, sticky handprints on the doorknobs or kitchen faucet (which I have to wipe clean), even rocks in the dryer make me smile. I love it!

I love reminders of my boys being little, being here and full of life. I love to see them discovering the world around them......and I love seeing it thru their little eyes!

November....

2010-11-28T19:31:00.000-08:00

How can it be that November has come and gone, well, almost gone? November was busy for us, with mostly fun stuff! We are thankful to have spent some time with wonderful friends and family throughout November!

Relaxed and Refreshed

2010-10-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

We took the boys to the Wintergreen for the weekend. AHHHHHH!!! Fresh moutain air, the beuatiful leaves, apple pickin', the "no schedule", the quiet......

......it was perfect! Even the family photo shoot I wanted to have.....which was anything BUT perfect, but it's my life right now and to me, it's perfect!

Lennie's around

2010-10-22T05:39:00.000-07:00

I've kept this one to myself to enjoy it privately for a bit, but now I wanna share.

I felt like Lennie was here a few days ago, in his yard enjoying his perfect kind of day! I just felt him all around me and I loved it! I quietly enjoyed it and it made me smile for days after! Then outta the blue, BOTH Braydon and Jackson came up to me and said "Ninne here" with the biggest smile on their faces.

I'm glad he comes around and I hope he always will! There isn't a day that goes by that I don't miss my dear old Lennie Man!

Fall time and Pumpkin Patches

2010-10-11T18:27:00.000-07:00

Make my heart happy!

Less of me

2010-10-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of myself.....if I can be for a moment.....and am pleased to say, I've lost 51 lbs (as of this morning) in the past 6 months! I wish I would have done this sooner and don't know why I didn't! Guess I just needed my "ah-ha" moment!

Black Widows

2010-09-28T05:10:00.000-07:00

Soccer Season has begun and what a great season it's been so far! Christopher is on a great team and it's so fun watching them play and learn! GO #3.....GO Black Widows!

Almost 2 Months

2010-09-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning an old camera card this afternoon and found this sweet picture of my Lennie man. It didn't make me cry, but instead made me smile and give an "Ole' Lennie Man" out loud.

He will always be with me and it's reminders just like this that help me know it's true! Just a few weeks ago, I could have SWORN I heard him in the bathroom about 2am, it wasn't Hanna cause she sleeps in her crate at night. Maybe he was just coming to visit....checking in on things (or seeing if Lacy had left a kitty present in her box).

I have no question he sent Hanna my way. No question! He knew just what he was doing! She is the sweetest little girl ever! I couldn't ask for a better, calmer, smarter, more playful, snugglier puppy girl! She has her moments where she gets the "squirt bottle", but they are far-er and few-er between!

2 Months.....it sure does go by ~ depends on how you look at it if it's fast or slow!

Home

2010-09-13T05:05:00.000-07:00

I took a quick weekend trip to Abingdon, Bristol, Blountiville this weekend to see some friends. What an amazing time it was, packed full of visits, stories, laughs and some tears.

I was reminded how wonderful old friends are for me!

Welcome home from 1st grade

2010-09-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

The last hour of school was the longest for sure....for me anyway! I couldn't wait till 2:17 to go meet the bus, so I put shoes on 5 little feet (I was babysitting my neighbors 3 little boys (twins + 1) for the afternoon) and walked down 15 minutes early! I see where he gets wanting to go down for the bus early this morning! :)

I'm so happy to have him home and love hearing about his day! We sat in the middle of the hallway when we got home and he told me everything ......and even added that he wanted to still be at school cause it was that awesome! He ADORES his teacher, Mrs. Stem and met so many new friends! His favorite part of the day was "everything", so when I asked what of everything did he like the best?? He said "everything". That's a good sign of what the year will bring!

He did ask me to not cheer for him when he got off the bus, tho! HAHA! I was just too excited! I'll tone it down tomorrow, promise!

Welcome to 1st Grade

2010-09-07T09:15:00.001-07:00

Christopher was so excited to start his new school in the 1st grade today! He was up and at 'em early and in a great mood! Nice warm waffles for breakfast and walking to the bus stop about 15 minutes early, per his request, so we wouldn't miss the bus. BIG year for me to let him ride the bus. I went back and forth and back and forth again and again about the bus......he wanted to ride with his friends in the 'hood, so we're trying it out. I'm so proud of him and have loved having him home this summer! It's been a quiet and lonely day with only 2 of my 3 boys at home today......I'm ready for winter break.......

I can't wait to hear all about his day!

PS....Yes, I did follow the bus and make Kevin drop me off to see him get off the bus! Baby steps!

Wanna play?

2010-08-21T10:21:00.001-07:00

Hanna has discovered herself in the reflection on th ebottom of our front door. She will lay there with this "other" puppy, playing and pawing ..... too cute! It does make me wonder if she misses her brother?? I just couldn't take 2 puppies...... but secretly wish I would have! Hanna has settled in quite nicely with our family. She is a very fun puppy! Christopher and I start our puppy training program tomorrow.....8 weeks! Wish us luck!

Camp Auntie

2010-08-19T05:47:00.000-07:00

Camp Auntie is underway for the month of August. I have my nephews 3 days a week and so far, I can tell you, it's been exhausting! 5 fun, lively boys, full of energy against 1 30 something auntie hasn't been fair!

It's been fun seeing all 5 interact, even if they don't always get along! :)

Braydon and Jackson....making it rain

2010-08-15T13:27:00.000-07:00

Christopher's stuff

2010-08-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

I looked through some of Christopher's pictures on the computer, the ones he's taken and has in his very own computer files to edit and "fix". :) I love his interest in photography and hope to nurture it all I can! I'd love to make a slide show of all his self portraits....they are hilarious!

Here are a few that I have to say are pretty good.....keep your eye, Christopher! Mommy is so proud of you!

2 Weeks

2010-07-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

What an emotional, yet peaceful 2 weeks it's been. I miss Lennie every day. I hold his hair, or pet his brush, snuggle his most favorite froggie. I cry when I remember our times and am so thankful to have had those many wonderful years with him. I have no regrets and am still very at peace with his death.

Hanna (formally known as Macie) has adjusted so well to her new forever home. She seems to know her place here and is eager to please. She's a chewer for sure, but she's only almost 4 months old, so that's expected. She loves to snuggle, she loves her little boys and she's getting pretty attached to Kevin. Just this morning when he walked down stairs, she jumped up to run to him.....with a playful bark, like saying "Good Morning". Lacy and Hanna are still adjusting and trying to get used to each other. Lacy is none to happy with me for bringing this pup into her home! :)

Lennie is part of Hanna, I feel him here ~ through her.

Home again

2010-07-23T18:20:00.001-07:00

Lennie's home. Forever.
I picked his ashes up Friday afternoon. They made a paw print of his little paw for me too, very sweet.

My heart is still heavy. I miss him terribly. I still cry at night and at random times during random thoughts. I know he's here.....right here!

Birthday Blues....sorta!

2010-07-19T05:51:00.001-07:00

I woke up this morning and my first thought was of Lennie. I've had such a peaceful and happy feeling knowing Lennie is free and happy and "perfect now", as Christopher said. I'm surprised I feel this way. I thought I would be terribly sad and a mess for months!
I do miss Lennie! I miss him alot! I cry. I feel sad. I smile too. I feel peace. Deep in my soul. I feel peace. I know he's here. He'll be here forever with me, he's here!

I know you'd be begging for a piece of my birthday cake today, Lennie. Just as in the 15 birthdays we've shared.....and you know, I'd be happy to share this time! I love you, Lennie Man!

Macie's story....

2010-07-17T15:01:00.001-07:00

April 12, 2010 this little puppy was born and taken to a kill shelter. 2 wonderful women drove to Appamatox County (I don't know how far that is, really) and took this precious puppy, along with her brother and sister in to foster them and find them homes. 4 weeks in the foster mom's care and this little gem has found her way into our home and hearts. Meet Macie, our newest member of the family. A lab/hound mix, very calm (so far and per her foster mom's say so) and very loveable. She's sitting on my feet as I type. I went to see another dog, who was just too hyper for the boys. This little girl can grow up with my boys and see them go to college! Kevin helped sum up my decision to adopt her by sayin', "what little boy do you know that wouldn't love a puppy?"

Welcome to your forever home, Macie!

Leonard's story

2010-07-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

Lennie B. Harper (Oct 5, 1995 adoption date to July 16, 2010)
English Squirrel Hound

Way back in October of 1995 (the 5th I think, at 4pm on my way home from work), I went to the animal shelter in Blountville, TN. I really wanted a dog and the house I was living in at the time didn't allow dogs. That didn't stop me! I found a cute and fluffy white and black long haired dog, between 1 and 3 years old, with the sweetest black nose full of prickers and thorns. I fell in love at first sight, but knew I couldn't/shouldn't have a dog in this house we rented. IF HE DIDN'T GET PICKED HE WAS GONNA DIE...that night. They had a little sign on his door that said his days were up at the shelter. 5pm closing time was it. I had an hour left. I left the shelter empty handed.....only to get to the stop sign and turn around and go back to adopt my sweet new friend. That was the beginning of almost 16 years of love, laughter and tears. 16 years of memories.

I saved his life....and he saved mine!

My sweet Lennie joined those waiting at the Rainbow Bridge Friday morning. Wednesday night he started having seizures, eye twitching and difficulty walking. After talking to my girlfriend (Katie is a vet), I decided to not take him in to the emergency clinic. He was comfy and he was sleeping, so I let him be. We had a normal day on Thursday and my friend, Katie came to check him out and from what she could tell, with no lab work, CT scans etc, he had a brain tumor. The plan was to do nothing, so long as he was comfy, and he was....tail waggin, eating, begging for food, under my feet as usual. Friday morning he woke me up as usual to eat, he couldn't wait! He ate fine and when he went out to potty (you always had to feed Lennie before he went out....he LOVED to eat and wouldn't wait till he got back in!) he fell over. I knew right then, his eyes told me it was time to say goodbye. I carried him inside and called my vet, who wasn't open. I called my friend, Katie (again...thanks Katie!) and she offered to come here to put him to sleep. I accepted. That hour of waiting was the longest hour ever....

It was very peaceful. I held him in my lap and he just went to sleep, as I told him how much I loved him, to find Foster and all the others who have gone onto the Rainbow Bridge. He took a piece of my heart with him. My pain is tremendous.

I've explained everything to Braydon and Jackson the best way I can....Lennie lives in Heaven with God and that's why we don't need his water bowl now. I don't think they get it. Christopher gets it better than I do. He asked to see Lennie after he died and I allowed it, seeing how delicate Christopher was when he pet him goodbye for the final time warms my heart and helped me find a smile in all this saddness. He looks at me with his big, bright 6 year old eyes and tells me "It's ok mom, Lennie is perfect now." Yep, he is perfect now, Christopher, yes he is.

I have a lot of memories to get me through this time. It's not an easy road, but I know those memories will help ease my pain.

Thanks for all the years, Lennie. There's no better dog than you....you knew how to make me laugh, you knew when I needed you to sit on my feet, you knew when I was scared, you protected me day and night, and you used to love to snuggle me in bed...till you weren't able to jump up anymore. I miss those snuggles, Lennie man. I miss you with all I have......good-bye ole' boy, run free and eat all the dog bones you can find! I love you!

My Sweet Lenoard

2010-07-16T19:53:00.000-07:00

October 1995 - July 2010

More of a write up will come....writing isn't coming easy tonight......I love you, Lennie man! You are missed so much.....gonna be a long first night without you, buddy! Run free.......

Step stools needed!

2010-07-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

Power Rangers

2010-07-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

You never know who/what you will find hanging out in a ziplock baggy full of water in my freezer!

Rainy Day

2010-07-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

We helped to pass this rainy day by playing outside in our pj's in the rain! FUN STUFF! Can you tell which little boy is in the puddle reflection picture??

Call the doctor (s)

2010-06-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

Christopher had a fever this past week and the brother's were quick to get their doctor kits and "check him". Even sick, he was a good sport about letting them poke around on him!

Happy Late Father's Day

2010-06-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

Seeing my couins father's day post tonight reminded me I didn't post yet. I'm so thankful to have such a wonderful daddy to my boys! XOXO

Dentist time

2010-06-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

I took all 3 boys to the dentist (Alone) this morning and it really didn't go as bad as it could have! :) Christopher was an old pro and showed the boys just what to do, so Braydon climbed up in his very own blue chair and Jackson avoided his own purple chair at all costs. The room is great for a mom who comes alone with all her kids in tow, cause you can walk from side to side to each kid in their chair. So, Jackson and I went to watch Christopher (who was doing great and getting a protective coating on his 6 year old molars) then went to watch Braydon ..... all while asking if Jackson was ready for his turn. "JaJa, no burble dare", not a chance! After C and B were done, J was ready to try, but only if "mama burble dare" first, so in I climbed worried about where Braydon would run to now that he had the chance with me under Jackson in a chair! It was a struggle to get Jackson to show his teeth, apparently he prefers that only he and I brush his teeth. We finally got a good look at him, the screaming he did when Dr. Carl came in gave him a great chance to see inside that mouth! When we were done, Braydon climbed out of his chair and into the other 3 chairs in that "pod" before leaving. All the boys left with their well earned balloon animals and toothbrushs. Diego for the boys and soccer for Christopher!

No cavities x 3 boys = 1 proud mommy!

Boston

2010-06-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

What a great trip! The walk was wonderful, the family time was long overdue and just being there in person meant so much to me. I think there are certain people who are good for your soul. They make you feel like you've never felt before and teach you more than you knew possible. Good for your soul.....

All in a week's work!

2010-06-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

A collection of pool days, Children's Museum trips, naptimes and bath! xoxo

The Best Party......so far!

2010-05-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

We had Christopher's 6th party at SCOR ~ Soccer Center of Richmond ~ today and let me tell you......it was AWESOME! The coaches played 2 games of soccer, did 2 relay races, tug of war, and ended with the jump house/slide thing before cake! It was the busiest, funest, stay moving-ist, happiest birthday party ever! I honestly think that each one of the children who attended had fun......really!

Christopher's rules were to have fun from the minute he walked in until the minute he walked out......he followed them!

I feel like snow white....

2010-05-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

We've had so many fun animals here at home lately.....frogs, "Tom" the turtle and this beautiful white squirrel.....I hope to get a better picture of the squirrel....he's beautiful!

(And right after I posted this, I saw this little fella having a snack in our backyard.....next I'll have my camera ready when the cute little baby bunnies come out to eat!!)

Big Boy Beds

2010-05-27T16:31:00.001-07:00

we did it.

really.

we converted the cribs to toddler beds.

wish us luck .....

Soccer in the rain!! :)

2010-05-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

6 Happy Years!

2010-05-21T04:28:00.000-07:00

How can it be that 6 years ago you were about to change my life forever? 6 years ago you blessed us with the greatest gift, your birth. Christopher, you've taught me so much in these past 6 years, I am still learning every day! You make me smile. You make me so proud. I am your biggest fan!

I hope you have fun being 6! Don't stop dancing, keep laughing, enjoy riding your bike, wiggle all your wiggly teeth, and always remember you're never too big to snuggle or sit in my lap.

I love you forever, buddy! You are my best 6 year old Christopher ever....in the world!

Soap and Water and Hair....Oh My!

2010-05-17T06:03:00.000-07:00

Miss you already, Kevin! You've not been gone 15 minutes and already the fun has begun....

New camera

2010-05-15T19:07:00.000-07:00

I got a new point and shoot camera for Mother's Day. Just a little one I can carry around easier than my professional one.....love it! It's got a great "self portrait" feature, which they boys all love.....they can see themselves on the LCD screen when I hold it out....pretty cool!

Happy Birthday, My Foster

2010-05-09T18:05:00.001-07:00

May 10, 1993 I went to work at the vets office just like any other day. I came home the new mommy of a tiny kitten. A tiny kitten, who was certainly not expected. A cat came in for a spay that day and turns out she was pregnant. 3 of the 4 kittens didn't make it. There was one tiny kitten still alive, the one with a "halo" on the tip of his little tail. It was decided I would take him home and help him make it through the night and the next week and the next month and ..... the next 16 years. He needed me to feed him every 3 hours 24 hours a day, make him go potty, and love him. He needed me to be his foster mommy and that's how Foster got his name!

I still miss Foster every single day. I miss him with my whole heart. I miss everything he did and everything he didn't.

From day one, I was with him. He counted on me. He needed me. I counted on him. I needed him. Happy Birthday, Fossie My Angel. You truly are my angel now!

Mother's Day

2010-05-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for my mom! I am thankful for everything she's taught me and continues to teach me. I am thankful for her in everyway. Happy Mother's Day, Mom! Thanks for all you do for! I love you!

Abra-KAAAA-Dabra

2010-04-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

A day at CMoR

2010-04-24T05:47:00.000-07:00

Whistle while you eat....

2010-04-21T18:43:00.001-07:00

Until you spill your cereal!! :(

Surfer Dude

2010-04-21T18:41:00.001-07:00

Patrick's birthday weekend

2010-04-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

Chris took the boys to Great Wolf Lodge for Patrick's birthday this past weekend and ivnited me to bring Christopher along! Kevin stayed home with Braydon and Jackson and "worked from home". We had a great time ~ what a great night away! Was a get away full of shopping, laughing, birthday cake, picnics, waterslides, lazy river, surfing, and laughing some more! Makin' great memories!

Sports....

2010-04-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

Soccer Season

2010-04-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

Christopher had his first soccer game today ~ he loved every second of playing! He made 4 goals....GO DOLPHINS!

Jackson's Kite

2010-04-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

"IFYIENNNN IFYIENNNNNNNN"

Jackson will fly his kite forever, running around and around with it soaring behind him saying I'm flyin' the whole time! A future pilot perhaps???

Our yard

2010-04-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

Our new yard has been so fun to watch bloom this spring. Color everywhere, at different times. One beautiful flower blooms, then dies, then something else is coming up in all it's spring time glory! What fun to see our new yard change with the season!

Spring Break

2010-04-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a spring break we've had. All 3 boys had a great time being together and knowing Christopher didn't have to go to school! They had a few meltdowns and I may have had one or two, but over all, it was a wonderful week full of fun! From Easter egg hunts, to the Easter Bunnies visit, dinner at my dads, and playing in our yard with our neighbors. We were certainly busy....Lewis Ginter, a few different parks with a few different friends, The Richmond Metro Zoo, VA Science Museum, and Busch Gardens today. (I did NOT take my camera to BG....grrrrr! Next time I won't listen to my wonderful husband!) What a way to end the week! Christopher loved it and got to ride his 1st roller coaster...TWICE.....Lochness Monster! Kevin took him first, then I took him for his 2nd ride.....my tummy still feels funny. Braydon and Jackson has the chance to see Elmo, Cookie Moster, Abby, Zoe, Bert, Ernie, Big Bird and Grover! They saw them sing and dance and got to meet them in the park for pictures. WHY OH WHY DID I NOT TAKE MY CAMERA??? OH...and Christopher won at balloon darts ~ first shot!! :) I had a couple cheap disposable ones....so I assume I have some pictures to capture the moments! Braydon and Jackson loved to ride the swing! :)

I've loved this week! I've loved having all 3 of my bosy together and hearing them laugh, seeing them play and watching them grow!

Happy Easter Happy Spring!

2010-04-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

With love from us to you!! :)

Ice Cold Lemonade!

2010-04-01T17:50:00.000-07:00

Today was our 1st offical IN PERSON Lemonade For William Stand ~ a great day for ice cold lemonade! All the neighbor kids wanted to help .... and buy!! :)

Early Egg Hunting

2010-04-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

We had a practice egg hunt today after school. I had hidden the eggs during naptime, so the hunt began as soon as we pulled in the driveway from school! Braydon and Christopher loved it, Jackson just wanted to play bulldozers.....

Racing cars and Milking Cows

2010-03-31T18:46:00.000-07:00

We joined the children's museum today! What a great place. I've not been there since Chrisotpher was 2! Braydon and Jackson LOVED it! They raced cars, had water play, dug in the sandbox, rode tractors, picked apples, shopped at the farmer's market, saw shadows, played TV, milked a cow, fed a horse, and SHARED all morning long! We went when Christopher was in school ~ I can't wait to take him too, he'll love it just as much! In the summer time, they have water play and they have special "member Mondays" when it's closed from the public and just allows members! Good times ahead!

Art Show

2010-03-23T17:08:00.000-07:00

He was so proud of himself!

And I was pretty proud too!

:) x 3

2010-03-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

Almost 6 years....

2010-03-21T18:33:00.000-07:00

How could almost 6 years gone by so fast?

Who's who?

2010-03-21T18:29:00.000-07:00

Give it a guess! Although, I have to admit....I don't even know who's who in the one with me!! :)

Remembering...

2010-03-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

I won a door prize, which included a memory baby book, so I've been making a First Years album for Brydon and Jackson. I've had so much fun seeing these "old" pictures and uploading some for the album......

How can this be 27 months ago?

Friends

2010-03-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

Christopher and Gareth have been friends since they were about 2. And...Braydon and Jackson are just a month younger than Kirsten. Wonderful friends! :)

a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-d5igz3ei2A/S6QyPRCQpKI/AAAAAAAAG20/USE0pFJ7t_Y/s1600-h/DSC_0071.JPG">

Attempted Easter Pictures

2010-03-19T04:05:00.000-07:00

Lately, taking a picture of all 3 boys has been a true challenge! Someone's eyes are closed, someone's looking the other way, someone's finger is in their nose or someone's crying. I gave up and decided I am quite pleased capturing the TRUE precious and fun time in my life right now......

My 5 favorite boys ~ Ever!

2010-03-13T18:23:00.000-08:00

An afternoon with Grandad

2010-03-13T18:18:00.000-08:00

We had dinner at my dad and Donna's tonight. Was a good time ~ I think long overdue.