the answer

picnic-1

Today marks two years since we got the call about Esther's death. And my heart still aches for her. So much has happened since in those two years. So much I could have never anticipated nor imagined. At the time I simply couldn't see past my grief. I didn't want to see past my grief. Not a year. Not a month. Not even a day. But God. He carried me during that time, constantly reminding me of His love. He didn't give me the answers I so desperately sought. But He gently revealed to me that He was the Answer. Two years later I can look back … [Read more...]

Sunday Snapshot: {a different kind of princess}

loopsy1

When Poppy and Tallula scored their princess dresses the other day, Vivienne was left out. Poppy snagged the Rapunzel and Tallula wanted the Cinderella. And that was the end of dresses of the princess variety. So we had to get creative. We paraded every dress-up dress in the place in front of her. Dora. Tinkerbell. Only a princess dress would do, though. And nothing we could find would suffice. But then. We brought over a Lalaloopsey dress. Bright, shiny peach polyester. With layers and layers of lace. And bows. And sequins. And oh my. She lit … [Read more...]

our littlest valentines

valentines1

Really have no idea what Valentine's Day is all about yet. Because they're not interested in boys. Or cards. Or chocolates. Okay, maybe definitely, they dig the chocolates. But - even without the trappings of Valentine's Day - they are still learning what love is all about. From a daddy that loves them dearly. So much, in fact, that he is willing to sit and watch the entirety of Tangled with them. Again. Happy Valentine's Day, y'all. Hoping you are being loved in just the right way today. And every day. … [Read more...]

fit for a princess

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On Wednesday mornings, Chris goes to a men's Bible study. Where they eat donuts. Evidently, all the guys there think we need the donuts more than anyone. Because Chris always has a box full in hand when he comes home. Doggoneit. This morning, I surprised the girls when they woke up with donuts. On their new pink dishes - some pink Fiestaware I scored at the Goodwill. I found a set of 8 cups and saucers. For $15. But don't tell them. They're convinced these are princess dishes. Because they are pretty much all about princesses these … [Read more...]

on my heart

Isabelle

November is National Adoption Month. And yesterday was Orphan Sunday. So the subject of adoption has been occupying a lot of my brain matter lately. As a momma to seven beloved children that were once considered orphans, adoption is often on my mind. But I've been reminded that I want my passion for adoption to be more than something that is on my heart and in my head... I want my life to be affected as well. I want to be changed. I want my life to look different because of all that God has revealed to me about His heart for the orphan. I had hoped to write … [Read more...]

vivi cakes turns 5

vivbday-2

Our girlie had her a party. Some new clothes. And a sweet surprise... of a new pink bike. Pink sprinkled cupcakes, with Cinderella rings and five candles. All added up to equal one very happy girl. Happy Birthday, my sweet Vivi Kate. There isn't a day that goes by that I do not feel oh-so-grateful to be the one you call mama. … [Read more...]

cupcakes for breakfast

vivbday-1

We have a five year old in the house. What? Our sweet Vivienne has gone and turned one year older. *sigh* This morning, as she walked passed Tallula and handed her a piece of paper, she said, "Take this pencil and call me in the morning." I have no idea what she meant, but I find her positively irresistible. So much to love about this little bundle. … [Read more...]

a (cute) little reminder

littlegirls-1

Just wanted to remind y'all that we are still receiving donations for Fill Their Stockings with Hope this Christmas. And we could really use your help. Donations so far this year are down significantly... and this is where we hope you'll come in. Pretty please? If you're considering donating but don't have a lot to spare, consider partnering up with a few friends or family members to go in on a gift card. Or if you know someone that makes or creates something, or has a special skill, consider contacting them to see if they'd be willing to join our … [Read more...]

Vivi-isms

vivifall1

This girl. She is 4 going on 24. And she has the mouth to match. Loves. To. Talk. Occasionally, she makes a funny. And we all proceed to laugh hysterically. Then we all add whatever 'Vivi-ism' she made up to our daily conversations. Because Vivienne is sort of addictive that way. In a conversation with herself while playing with her dolls and she was, clearly, oh-so-frustrated with one of them... "You have got to be coming on!" When she was making a magnet tower and Victoria was reminding her to be careful not to knock over Tallula's tower in the … [Read more...]

two is company…

goggles5

and three is a crowd. That's usually how it goes around here with a 2, 3 and 4 year old. But every once in a while, they all find something to do. Together. Today they were playing outside - notice all the sweat goin' on, we actually hit the 80's today - and they all three ran back in. Chattering away. They'd been digging around in the beach toys and, clearly, had found something worth getting excited about. They played and giggled until I could resist it not longer. I just had to get my camera out. Oh, to be 2, 3 and 4 again. And to find … [Read more...]