My real life as a mommy

Officially a stay at home mom for the summer

2009-06-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

I am experiencing staying at home with my precious little ones. It has been a challenge learning how to entertain 2 two year olds. This is my first summer with both of them and it is a lot of work, Almost as much as 18 third graders. I have to plan and keep them busy. We are learning lots of new concepts. It has been really fun teaching them new things and getting to be the one see them grow day to day.

We have enjoyed having picnics, doing crafts, swimming, going to the gym(for mommy's sake), grocery shopping during the day when it is not crowded, doing laundry on time, cooking together, and really getting time to blend our family.

Swimming Lessons

2009-06-28T14:55:00.001-07:00

The kids took swimming lessons at the local YMCA for two weeks. Boy was an adventure not for the kids, but for mommy and daddy:)

The test after the lesson

2009-06-28T14:49:00.001-07:00

We took them swimming after they had been in their lessons and they did very well. I feel so much more comfortable having them in the pool, now that they know what to do when their face goes under water. Elyse continues to be brave and slides down the slide on her belly and jumps into the pool without an adult watching. She wants to take her swimming vest off and touch the bottom of the pool. Hunter is now getting used to using his legs and arms to make him move. He is getting more comfortable with the water in his face. They both made great strides.

Discovering the joy of sand in your bathing suit

2009-06-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

We went to PCB on a Friday. We cut a cold watermelon and brought a lunch. We lasted about 3 hours and then the heat got to us. But the kids loved it and got over their fear of the huge waves.

An oasis in the heat

2009-06-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Diva Shoes

2009-06-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

Elyse calls shoes with a heel Diva Shoes. She loves to be a "diva." make-up, bows in her hair, dresses, and now mommy's high heel shoes. She has even got Hunter onto the idea.

A milkshake brings the family together

2009-06-28T14:42:00.001-07:00

Mommy and Elyse are twins

2009-06-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

Elyse was so excited that mommy was wearing the same outfit as her. She calls it "being twinkies."

Picnic and Animals

2009-06-28T14:36:00.000-07:00

We enjoy being outside when we can find some shade in this 100 degree heat. Lake Ella has great shade for a picnic and the kids enjoy looking at the animals.

Always a teacher...

2009-06-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

I must find "crafts", books, lessons for the kids to do or we all go crazy in the house this summer. So this was a painting adventure. Of course we had to do it outside. It turned out to be a success. The kids want to do it again but mom is always hesitant.

T-ball.....Toddlers at Play

2009-04-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of the day. Dinner is done, lunches are done, etc and we get to come outside and play in the yard. I love watching my kids run around with each other and greet other neighbors walking their children or dogs. It is precious.

More popsicle on the clothes than in our mouths

2009-04-26T18:18:00.000-07:00

The kids got to buy ice cream from the ice cream truck for the first time. I loved this as a kid. I didn't even know this business was still popular anymore. But they must make good money for $2 and $3 a pop. What a great business venture. Anyone interested?

Chomping down on some corn

2009-04-26T18:17:00.001-07:00

Elyse wanted a bite of my corn on the cob and she went to town. She ate the whole thing by herself. Yum Yum.

Easter afternoon at butter's and grandaddy's

2009-04-19T12:32:00.001-07:00

we had lots of people over at the millender's for the afternoon including my dad, lori, and tristen. it was a treat:)

Elyse's Easter Play

2009-04-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

Easter Morning

2009-04-19T12:26:00.000-07:00

The first cousin sleepoever

2009-04-19T12:22:00.001-07:00

Michael and I volunteered to watch Kelli and Michael's kiddies for their 10th anniversary so they could go out and party (hehe). So I planned the whole evening with crafts and activities and fun snacks. The boys did not care a thing about it and elyse was a little too young. however, Kyla who is 6, enjoyed it all. it was quite an experience. (our kids were horrible and kelli's were so well behaved.) i guess you hope when your kids go to other peoples' houses that they are well behaved and with you they can just misbehave:(

but anyways, it was a fun night. i can't wait until they are older and all can use the big potty so we can do fun activities like this more often.

Leasey in her aunt's wedding

2009-04-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

Um, she is just beautiful....

easter egg hung at church

2009-04-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

A family trip...

2009-04-12T19:06:00.000-07:00

Well, we decided to go to Vero Beach and visit my friend Emily and her husband. And then we went to my mom's in Clermont before we came home. So we left Friday after I got off of work. The 5 hour trip took us about 8 hours. Traveling with 2 two year olds is very tiring. They argued over movies, cried alot, ate a lot, and used the bathroom alot. It was very interesting. We were so glad to get to Emily's at 10pm on Friday night. We did enjoy our trip however, once we were there that is. It was so nice to see some very special people.

kids first time at the beach

2009-04-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

We went to the beach on Saturday morning. Elyse and Hunter had never been before. The wind was very strong and the waves were very rough. The sand was pricking the kids on the face. So the kids didn't last very long. We stayed for 50 minutes. We did eat lunch in that time, we had "sand"wiches. Needless to say we definitely need to expose them again so they don't think that going to the beach is always like mini hurricane:)

making the best of the windy day

2009-04-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

aunt emmie has a baby in her belly

2009-04-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

I have blogged about Emily before and how special she is to us. It was so nice to see Emily and Elyse connect again. Emily was my roommate when Leasey was born. She was at the hospital when she was born and she assisted me from the very beginning. The Lord used her in my life in so many ways. I get emotional thinking about it. However, now Emily is married and pregnant herself. And my life has changed too. Emily now got a chance to bond with Hunter. Who was calling her Aunt Emmie.

Breezy Afternoon in Vero

2009-04-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

We took the kids on a little walk on Saturday afternoon to get them out of the house. The breeze felt so nice, against the skin with the smell of the ocean in the air. There are some benefits to living by the beach.

Rock Star Guitar Heros

2009-04-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

Since Aunt Emmie and Uncle Mike's house is not quite kid friendly yet with toys, Emily pulled out the best toys that she had....Guitars from Guitar Hero. So the kiddies jammed out on the Guitars. Elyse sang all of her songs from her upcoming Easter play and Hunter echoed. It was adorable, except when Hunter got knocked in the head a couple times by the hyper rockstar Elyse.

remembering childhood

2009-04-12T18:44:00.000-07:00

We wrapped our trip by driving back to Tally on Tuesday. We stopped at the rest stop and ate lunch. It made me think of my childhood b/c that is what we did when I was child we traveled. I loved that memory for some reason. Sometimes, I just start thinking that I can't believe that I am the parent now and I make the decisions for these little lives. It is so amazing how quickly the roles turn on you.

Cozy by the fire

2009-04-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

Michael would make lots of fires this chilly winter. So the kids liked to cuddle up with hot chocolate while the fire was blazing.

Hosana

2009-04-12T18:39:00.001-07:00

At church Elyse and Hunter learned how Jesus was praised when he came into Jerusalem on the Donkey before he was crucified. They brought home palm leaves that they made. We talked about the story and then Elyse decided to practice with the leaves. I can't tell you how much my children learning and growing in truth means to me, more than anything that can be provided on this temporary earth.

rubber tires for play

2009-04-12T18:33:00.000-07:00

There is this great park in Tally called Tom Brown Park. We don't go often b/c it is far away from our house. But one Saturday Michael decided that it was time to take the kids outside to enjoy the start of spring. So we packed up the kiddies and went. We were there for 2 hours straight, chasing the kids around. However, the neat thing about this park is that the ground is not made of wood chips or sands it is made from rubber tires. So the cool part is, the kids don't get hurt when they fall.

Savings, Deals, and Coupons, a mom's best friend

2009-04-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

My family and I are on a serious plan to get debt free, not as serious as others, as I still like to have mini outings that cost some money. But we still are working towards goals. I have discovered this wonderful blog, given to me by a dear friend. It has helped me to save money at the grocery store and other places. She does the research and you just click and download for great savings. I hated coupons but the other day when I saw that I saved a total of $60 in BOGO's at Publix and coupons, I can't resist doing it now. So happy clipping, printing, and saving.

http://www.fiddledeedeemom.com/

loss for words

2009-02-16T17:25:00.000-08:00

Today I went in to work to find out that one of my precious co-worker's wife had lost two out of three babies she was pregnant with. She went into preterm labor on Friday night. The little girl is holding on. They are super amazing people who deserve children more than anyone I know. They have been battling lots of struggles through their trials to get pregnant, and now they face another one. A HUGE ONE.

So my heart is heavy and I am reflecting on what truly matters in life. It is so easy to get caught up in the complaints of parenthood and not rejoice in the blessings. So tonight, I am thankful for every nose wiped, juice spilled on the floor, and every cry. I am so thankful for my children and my husband and I wouldn't trade my life for anything in the world.

Thank you Lord for a constant reminder to praise you for your faithfulness in my life. You are good even though I don't understand why things happen.

But tonight I pray for my co-worker and his wife. I pray for their family and all of their sweet children. Lord may your hand of comfort be with them. There just aren't any words....

What drives a mom to drink

2009-02-14T10:40:00.001-08:00

Well, today I was so excited about all the little Valentine activities I had planned for the kids and I to do during the day while daddy would be at work. And of course I always have a plan. However, today and most days...the plan never works. So I started off the day giving my children their Valentine gifts (which included lots of candy). So of course at 8:45am they wanted a piece of candy. Because it was a special day, I said they could have one piece. They chose a heart lollipop, of course. They couldn't choose something that was a little cleaner. So they proceeded to eat their lollipops. They drop them on the floor, rubbed them in hair, on their rocking chairs, and so on. However, this was just the first adventure of the day, so I wasn't bothered. I just laughed and cleaned up their mess. Next, we had to get dressed so we could go to the store. We went to the grocery store and bought small things that I needed for the day. However, this was an adventure with 2 two-year olds. They both had to sit in the back of the cart and of course that led to aggervating one another. They are screaming in the store. I am smiling at all the passer-bys that are thinking, "oh my goodness, why does she let her kids act like that." I sweetly smile and think to myself, " One day, you will see, when you give birth." I will never judge a parent in public again, as I once did when I didn't have children." So I leave the grocery store, during the trip I bought a bottle of wine for my dinner with Michael for the night. The thought crossed me as I was putting the bottle in the car, I might need this sooner than I thought.

So then we proceed to go to the rental movie store to see if I can find a movie for the night. However, Elyse begins to run around the store and pick up tons of movies, "I want this one mommy, I want this one." I go to pay for the rentals and my card I was paying with didn't work. So kindly said, no thanks. And we left, I had to get out of there.

So as I rush home, the children are crying because they want a snack. (Really they wanted more candy.) So right when I get home, a girl was coming over to close out her Premier Jewelry Show with me ( a side business I own.) And her and her sister came over. They had quite a big show, so I told the kiddies to go play in their rooms, as they usually would when we get home. But no not this time. It was time to show off. They wanted food, so I got them animal crackers. They threw them all over the floor instead of eating them. (Mind you, I had just mopped the floor 12 hours ago.) Then they are screaming and yelling. I could barely hear the girls talking to me, let alone help them make decisions. This lasted a good 20 minutes. I was a little overwhelmed. Once they left, I was shaking at this point because I was so frustrated with them and a little embarrassed. However, right when the girls leave, my sweet little children decide to go play quietly in their room.

I continued to put up the groceries, and I began to ice a cake that I was making for Valentine's Day. And I began making lunches, and baking muffins for the kids Sunday School party in the morning. All the while, my house is a mess, laundry is not even started, and I needed to study for Sunday School that I was teaching in the morning. I began to cry and ask the Lord why and how do mom's do it, how do they keep up with all the demands, and still maintain to look good. I want to be that mommy. I walked into by bedroom and I looked into the mirror, I was horrified. I hadn't had a shower, my clothes had stains on them. I just began to cry.

Elyse knocks on the door and says mommy, "I am hungry." So as I walked out of the room wiping my eyes, I knew my pity party had to be over. Ding ding, the alarm for the muffins is going off and two children are staring at me waiting for their lunch. So I finally get them their pizza. Elyse eats hers and Hunter begins to cry and complain, he doesn't want the pizza.

Finally, lunch was over and wiped down the children and put them to bed. I thought to myself, I don't want to do all of the chores I need to do while they are sleeping. I was still shaking from frustration from all of the events. Elyse and Hunter had both laid down for their naps, kicking and screaming. So I was feeling so disoriented. As I sat down, I thought, well it is the afternoon, I guess opening that bottle wine wouldn't be so bad after all.

As I begin to calm down, I figured I better not, or I might get caught up and drink the whole bottle:)

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!

We miss you!!!

2009-02-03T17:42:00.001-08:00

Today is Mya Loney's 3rd Birthday Party. Elyse and I just want to say Happy Birthday. We love you and miss you. We wish we could of been with you this past weekend:)

The Monkey Cake

2009-02-03T17:37:00.000-08:00

I came up with this great idea to make a monkey cake. However, I needed to call my dear friend who knows a little more about this than me. So I called Angie and we had a baking party on Friday night. It was a late night. But it was so neat to learn lots of cake tricks. There is a class that you can take at Michael's Craft store that teaches you how to make awesome cakes. Now I am very motivated to take the class, thanks to Angie. So anyways, the cake turned out so cute. I was well pleased with the results....thanks to Angelina:)

Celebrating

2009-02-03T17:33:00.000-08:00

The guests

2009-02-03T17:28:00.000-08:00

There was so many people who graced us with their presence on Hunter's Birthday. All of his grandparents (and he does have a lot) came. His aunts, uncles, and cousins were there and some friends. He also got a sweet visit from his brother and sister: Maddie and Jared. He ran out to hug them when they came to the house. It brought tears to my eyes. Hunter is so very blessed and loved. We thank God for all He has done in His sovereign plan. Thank you for everybody's love!!!

And I quote

2009-02-03T17:25:00.000-08:00

Every night we get together on Hunter's rug and we pray. Lately Elyse has wanted to pray. So tonight she prayed..."Jesus, I want new shoes Jesus. Amen."

I could of cried.

Baking Cookies

2009-02-03T17:23:00.000-08:00

Boots

2009-02-03T17:21:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite pics of my favorite people:)

Check out the boots...if one if wearing them, the other insists

Reaching for the Sky

2009-02-03T17:20:00.000-08:00

Reach Huntee, Reach!!!!

Things that make me smile....

2009-01-13T17:14:00.000-08:00

1. Watching my sweet 2 year-old singing and dancing to praise songs.

2. A cup of hot chocolate and little bit of coffee mixed together.

3. A delicious bottle of sweet wine.

4. A love note from my husband.

5. A great page turning novel.

6. Rocking my babies to sleep.

7. Praying with my husband.

8. Laughing really hard with good friends.

9. Looking at my wedding pictures.

10. Getting a good bargain.

11. Shopping at Publix on Capital Circle.

12. When I get dinner cleaned up and I get to spend an hour with my kids before they go to bed.

13. Rain pattering on the roof, as I sleep in.

14. Cuddling under the covers when it is really cold outside.

15. A movie that is absolutely hilarious, I just have to be in a good mood after it.

16. A good quote.

17. Writing, journaling,

18. A change in season

19. Going on a date with my husband and eating AMAZING food...Bonefish

20. A hot sweet potato, because it taste good and it has lots of fiber

21. TCBY

I just wanted to reflect on the little things that I love so much in life. I want to learn to treasure each day. This is my new year plan. I never make a "NEW YEAR" plan. However, this is more like a life plan. A mind set change. I want to understand that if the laundry doesn't get done that it is okay...that my family and relationships are more important when the day is done. So that is my prayer everyday to see God in all of the small things. The small little kisses on earth that I receive from Him daily.

a night away

2009-01-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Michael's dad took him on a night trip camping. It was weird being without him. It made me appreciate him more and know how much I really do love him and need him. But I did get to spend some girl time with my sister in-laws and that was extremely fun and a blessing to get to know them more. Even a short absence can make the heart grow fonder.

all our children

2009-01-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

Elyse has 9 baby dolls now. She has a name for each one of them. She puts diapers on them and feeds them. She is an amazing mom. She has a system just like her mommy. It is so cute to watch her do this. She keeps track of them all very well. These are all of the children.
SuLu, McKenzie, Ariel, Danielle, Jackie, Clintonia, Ebony, Sarah, and Ashley Anne

high of 75 on a beautiful december day

2009-01-02T18:14:00.001-08:00

life after the ball

2008-12-30T17:22:00.000-08:00

Through our marriage counseling we were taught to think beyond the wedding day. The wedding took so much planning but the life that is led after it is so much more important. We had an amazing one week honeymoon in North Carolina. It was the weirdest thing: no children,
no agenda, no mess to clean up, no alarm clock or children to wake us up. However, the week feels so short in retrospect. We came home to a week of work and two children that are needy, dependent, yet trying to be independent, and want your attention at all times. Every night I had my routine to do: laundry,cook, clean up, make lunches, give baths, read a book, pray and go to bed. In the middle of all that I tried to fit in some time to sit with the children and play. I feel so overwhelmed by the tasks of everyday life that I feel like I don't spend time with my family. I was so burdened by that. I always have been. By the time the children were in bed, I finally looked at Michael and thought, wow! I haven't even talked to you all day. Then we would get ready for bed and do anything that needed to be done and by that time I am ready for bed. So as newly weds we are experiencing the life that others might experience 2 or even 5 years down the road. I am envious of young couples that I see without children that get to date....just even go out to dinner whenever they want. I am so sad that I didn't get that experience. But I have to trust that God is going to work it out and that He will bless our life together. That He will allow Michael and I the time we need to get to know each other better and to be intentional about making that time. So this is my life. It is messy, it is unpredictable, and tiresome. I don't know that I even sit down anymore just to relax. It is not the fairy tale that my wedding day was. On most days I don't feel like Cinderella at the ball but the Cinderella that worked, and worked hard. I clean floors, I get told what to do by two year olds, i need this, i need that. But as I reflect on the childhood story, the Cinderella at the ball and in the fairy tale is just a dream...the fantasy always ends, the clock always strikes midnight. It did for Cinderella and it does for us. Life is really lived and lived best in reality, in the rags and the hard work. For that is where our true character is found. That is where our faith is tested. That is where God meets us and changes our broken heart. This where I find GRACE. If I was still seeking and living in my fairy tale...I would of never learned about God's goodness and about my need for Him. So as a whole picture....I love my life. I love my husband and I love my children. And everyday I am learning how to live in the rags and enjoy life after the ball.

gingerbread houses, santa, and christmas sweet lovin'

2008-12-29T19:13:00.000-08:00

It does get cold in Florida sometimes...

brother and sister

wow, we actually got a picture of all of us

Lele (Hunter made this name up) and her new baby McKenzie

Hunter and his new truck

Leasey loves her Naw-Naw

Yummy, the smell of gingerbread cookies

our family gingerbread house

I was so excited about Christmas this year. It was the weirdest feeling of being the adult though. I felt like I was living out my life as a child again. I loved Christmas as a child. I couldn't really sleep the night before. This Christmas was the same. I couldn't wait for Elyse and Hunter to get up and see all of their presents from Santa and mommy and daddy. I dreamed about the excitement all night. We had a great week that week. We spent time with my mom, michael's parents, and then my dad and lori's on Christmas day. I am sad the break it almost over.

burgundy, brown, gold, and leopard... It is all in the details!

2008-12-29T18:26:00.000-08:00

I loved all of the small details of the wedding. I wanted to give props to all of the lovely people who helped us have such a glorious day. The pictures helped me to go back and see the things I didn't get to see on that day due to the overwhelming pace of the day. It was gorgeous in my opinion.

Our Wedding Party and sweet friends....
Thank you for all of your dedication and love to us.
We are so glad you could all celebrate in our special day.

Thanks Ed for counseling us and sticking with us for so long. You truly earned the right to marry us. You have helped us sort out so much. You have helped us to learn the meaning of really loving each other and forgiving each other as Christ has forgiven us. Thank you for all you have done.

Our parents. Thank you for standing beside us through it ALL. You are why we made it to this day and will continue to make it. WE love you and are so glad you helped make the day possible.

The yummy food. We enjoyed our wedding snacks even after the wedding....the chicken salad was amazing!!!! Carita did a wonderful job and has an amazing heart.

This picture was taken by Meagan Van Ost and I think it is so precious. The congregation stretched their hands to us on the last prayer for a blessing. I am so thankful for all of the people that came to support us and encourage us. I am so thankful for the people in the ceremony and for our families that put so much time, money, and energy into making this day fairy tale perfect.

My gown that matched the southern flare of Bradley's Pond

The music was amazing and the musicians are so talented. It totally added to the greatness of the day.

The sparklers at the end were a picture perfect way to leave the reception

We had a stunning photographer. His company is called Lewis Johnson Photography. I highly recommend him. He caught all of the important moments on camera. He went above and beyond our expectations. He was worth every penny.

Check him out at lejphotography.com

The flowers by Edna Hall at Touch of Glass Florist (Havana)
so sweet and easy to work with...

The picture votives (idea from Emily)....
Mrs. Jane, helped me set up everything...she was the biggest help and blessing

The Florida State glasses....that we love to drink our wine in at night....

The wedding cake that my cousin Tara made (Jacksonville)
I loved it...classic with a monogram

The monogrammed dresses

The programs with the leopard ribbon

The Groom's Table

The leopard shoes were personally my favorite touch

The chocolate brown tuxes

Mr. and Mrs. Millender

2008-11-27T18:35:00.000-08:00

I don't believe in fairy tales. But on November 15th I feel as if I played the leading part. I was the princess and my prince met me with an embrace of love. We took hands, we felt the sun shining on our face as friends and family surrounded us. I felt loved, so dearly loved. We danced, we smiled, and I felt beautiful. I smiled more that day than most days. It was glorious.

The morning started off very dreary and wet. I was very worried that the weather would not cooperate with my plans. Of course I had everything planned the way it needed to go. If you know me, you know that I had millions of checklists and delegated tasks for people. I even had plans for the weather. However, it was just like life to wake up to circumstances that were not what I had wanted. I prayed...thinking: Does God really care about the weather for this day? But I continually prayed and asked that His glory would be shown either way. As the day went on most of the plans seemed to come together, however, as I was getting in the car to go to the ceremony it was drizzling and dreary. I was still getting married outside even in a misty rain but I desired the sun. I took my pictures with my family and bridesmaids and we took them on the porch to avoid the raindrops. Then I went to my bridal room and waited...as the my groom arrived outside. It was 3:00 and I had no idea what was going on outside. As I waited and anticipated seeing my groom tons of thoughts ran through my head. I had not been nervous or even had time to think during the day. As my bridesmaids left to walk down the aisle, I was alone for what seemed like forever. I had a dear sweet lady, Jane Cartledge, see me and she prayed for me. I began to cry. Not because I was sad because the love of Jesus just ran over me. It showered me and for a minute the last two years of my life played back like a movie. I thought of God's love and faithfulness to me and how He had brought Michael, Hunter, and his family into my life and Elyse's. I thought about how God had done amazing and great things, not because He had to but because He loves me and His grace and blood covers me. I was quickly taken back as my dad came to walk me down the aisle. I knew that I would just cry once I saw the crowd, heard the music, and saw Michael. But I didn't cry. My eyes lit up and I couldn't keep the smile off of my face. I got down front and the first words out of my mouth were..." It is sunny." And I began to laugh. As a matter of fact, I laughed through the whole ceremony. I didn't shed one tear. I just briefly want to share why I laughed (it was not due to an excessive amount of wine before the ceremony:) . I laughed because I was just amazed with how God had shown up again, He made the sunshine on my wedding day at just the right time. It was like a kiss from heaven, His face shining down upon us, His blessings, His grace, His mercy, like I should of expected anything less. All of this washed over me, as I sang hymns of praise and made a lifetime covenant with God and my husband and my children. It just couldn't of been better. I couldn't of felt more beautiful. I couldn't of felt loved more by my family, my friends, my husband, and my God. He has pursued me and continues to. As much as the love of my husband makes me feel so worthy, the love of God is what really fulfills me to the core of my being...because I was made for this.

I don't have time to maintain these regrets...

2008-09-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

A song that makes me cry when I hear it...

He is jealous for me
Love's like a hurricane, I am a tree
Bending beneath the weight of His wind and mercy
When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory
and I realize just how beautiful You are and how great your affections are for me.
Oh, how He loves us so
Oh, how He loves us
How He loves us so.

So we are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes
If grace is an ocean we're all sinking
So heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss and my heart turns violently inside of my chest
I don't have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way He LOVES US.

SLAM...

2008-09-28T18:59:00.000-07:00

Don't eat the bird seed...it's for the birdies boys and girls

2008-09-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

I like to ride my bicyle...I like to ride it now

2008-09-28T18:56:00.001-07:00

Our first Engagement Party/Shower

2008-09-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

Yummy treats...especially the chocolate and bananas

Take note of the leopard...you will see it again... emily you know just want i like

Elyse thought the chocolate and fruit was yummy too, she couldn't stop eating off the table.

We celebrated with my family in Central Florida for our upcoming wedding. Mike and Emily McAulif put on the shower for us. It was so amazing. The decorations and the food were just right.

The events of the night

2008-09-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

Elyse plays a love song...

Hunter finds a rocker...his favorite

Okay I think we might of had enough by now..we will rest

Kids are starting to wind down...some whining down...

Enough of this stuff...I am going to sleep

Family and Friends at the Shower

2008-09-28T18:44:00.000-07:00

My cousin Tara, who is making our wedding cake.

Mike and Em, who hosted the shower.

Nannie and Poppa, who challenged us to meet at least 60 years of marriage, wow we would be pretty old by then:)

My cousin Monica and her beautiful daughter, that didn't like the camera.

Our crazy family...we can't ever get a good pic, where the kids sit still. This is the life.

Is this a dream...my baby turns 2!

2008-09-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Elyse turned two already. We celebrated her Birthday with friends and family. We are so blessed by the people that continually surround us and love us. Thank you.

The fellowship

2008-09-28T18:38:00.000-07:00

Kyla and Huntee

Daddy and Daddy in Law (to be)

Caleb

Grandaddy and Leasey

We grilled out and enjoyed each other's company as the kiddies played.

The Presents

2008-09-28T18:34:00.000-07:00

This was the first time that Elyse actually received gifts and she cared about what was inside, instead of the gift wrapping paper. She was so excited and her little face lit up with each gift. She received so many new toys. Thank to everyone for your gifts. Leasey loves them:)

The Cake

2008-09-28T18:31:00.000-07:00

Compliments of Angie Pico Barfield Bakery

A Princess Cake...for the little Princess

"Happy Birthday to Lease"...she sang it all weekend to herself...

And I am not quite done yet mommy

Her new room after the presents

2008-09-28T18:29:00.001-07:00

Engagement PIcs

2008-09-28T18:28:00.001-07:00

Lewis Johnson Photography....amazing...

My Family...My Heart

2008-07-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

Great is Your Faithfulness...Lord unto me!!!

Hunter's Visit

2008-07-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

Michael got to have Hunter for a week and a half. It has been quite a long time since we had seen him. He is walking and talking now. It is amazing. He is so precious and looks just like his daddy:) Thank you all for your continuous prayers through Michael's specific situation. God is faithful!

OUR new home!!

2008-07-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

This is where Elyse and I are living now. We had to move abruptly from another place. But God provided above and beyond. This is where Michael will move into when we get married in November. We are very excited about it:)

I wear my sunglasses at night...

2008-07-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

Leasey...loves her glasses. She has to wear them everywhere. She wears them in the house, in the car, to Mrs. Debbie's, in the daytime and at night. But she is sooo cute in them!!! Check out this girl she is already posing for pics:) I love it!

Exciting News!!!

2008-06-18T19:21:00.001-07:00

Michael proposed to me on Friday the 13th of June. I almost can't believe this. It is really still surreal. I am so excited about Michael and I living out this journey and adventure together. I am so thankful for all of you who have come along side of us either together or seperately. You have played a huge role in shaping us for each other. We are so grateful to you all. We love you and can't wait for you to share in our special day.

Check out our wedding website at:
www.theknot.com/ourwedding/AprilWillis&MichaelMillender

These are pics from the engagement night.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

The Loney Family

2008-05-29T17:14:00.000-07:00

Bryan, Lisa, and Mya set off to St. Louis for Seminary last Sunday the 25th. I am so excited to be able to see how God is going to use their family. They are amazing people who love others. However, again it is like feeling a big whole in my heart. They have been there for me as a single mom. I have called them late in the night just for questions about fevers, saddness, and even robbers. They never once acted as if I was an annoyance. They were right there to help me and answer any questions with love and concern. I met them just right before Elyse was born and their daughter Mya was about 6 months old. Leasey and Mya were friends right from the start. Elyse still calls Mya everyday on her "cell phone" on the way to school. It is the most adorable thing to watch. So again we will both feel the loss in a huge way. They are family to us!!!

My Emily; Leasey's Emmie

2008-05-29T17:10:00.000-07:00

Mike and Emily got married May 17th at 3pm. It was such a fun time to celebrate with them. Elyse and I were both in the wedding. However, when I came home to an empty house on Sunday it was lonely. We both missed Emily. Emily has been so amazing to me. She has helped me basically rasie Elyse up to this point. I couldn't of asked for a better helper. Elyse absolutley adores Emily. So I am sure that there will be many trips to Auntie Em's new house in Vero Beach. We love you guys and wish you all the best.

Saying Good-bye

2008-05-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have had to watch some very precious people leave Tallahassee in the last month. It has been sad to think about these peole leaving, as they have played a huge role in my life since I had Elyse. However, I know that it is all the more an opportunity to lean on Christ and know that He is consistent, sovereign, and unchanging. But the saddness in my heart still remains.

Mommy and Leasey

2008-05-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

I had a perfect Mother's Day. We went to church at Centerpoint with Michael. Then Michael and I met his family at Torreya Grill for lunch. Then we went back to his house to hang out with his family. We had such a great day of fellowship and fun together. I can't believe this is my third mother's day. I am just such in awe my baby girl and all that I learn from her.

The Loney's

2008-05-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

This Sunday was my last Sunday with the Loney's at Centerpoint. The girls just got together and ran around like usual. They even started to show their talent on the Piano.

Swimming in the luxurious pool

2008-05-13T18:11:00.000-07:00

We went over to Michael's parents house to end the day. We relaxed in the pool with the family to celebrate Mrs. Elaine's Birthday.

Tea Party with Mackel

2008-05-13T18:08:00.000-07:00

I got to buy Elyse a little table. She loves to play tea party on it. Mackel helped put the table together so he was the first to have a tea party with Leasey. These pics are just priceless. Leasey finally starting calling Mackel by his name. She can't pronounce it real well so she says "Mackel". It sounds a bit redneck. But it is PRECIOUS!!

I'll take one of those

2008-05-13T18:07:00.000-07:00

Leasey decided to crawl into her grocery cart after being told no. She kept saying out in such a pathetic voice. I couldn't help but laugh. It was a very funny moment.

Tom Brown Park

2008-05-13T18:06:00.001-07:00

awwww

2008-05-13T18:04:00.000-07:00

Horsin' around

2008-05-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

Using the Potty...kind of

2008-05-13T18:02:00.000-07:00

Leasey likes to sit on the potty but does not pee pee or poopoo in it. She just likes to stick toliet paper in it.

Relaxing on a Sunday Afternoon

2008-05-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Easter Weekend in Malone

2008-05-13T17:51:00.000-07:00

His GRACE is sufficient

2008-03-11T17:59:00.000-07:00

I asked God for strength that I might achieve,
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked God for health that I might do greater things,
I was given infirmity that I might do greater things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy,
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men,
I was given weakness that I might find the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life,
I was given life that I might endure all things.
I got nothing I asked for
But EVERYTHING I had hoped for...
Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men most richly blessed.

I read this poem and I don't feel I am quite at this point. But I do get it. I get that all I need is Christ and that I am desperate for Him. Without His spirit I default to me, which is ugly, selfish, and very broken. But I am so exited to feel contentment in the lonely, tired, and long days knowing that His grace is sufficient and I am eternally secure in Christ alone, nothing that this world can offer can give me this peace.

This gets me through to endure the days ahead whether in joy or saddness, in the good or bad times!!

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why for Christ's sake I delight in weaknesses in insults, hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, than I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:8-10

My-My

2008-03-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

Leasey has grown very fond of her friend Mya. Mya and Leasey have been friends since Elyse came out of the womb. Elyse loves going to visit Mya because she has way more cool toys than we do. She of course loves Molli and kitties that are at Mya's house too. However, this is all too shortly coming to an end. Bryan, Lisa, and Mya will be off to Seminary in St. Louis. So we are trying to savor the few and far between moments we get with these precious friends of ours. We got to capture some of these precious pics of my-my and Leasey playing in the back yard.

I feel pretty...so pretty....

2008-03-11T17:52:00.000-07:00

Bath Time

2008-03-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

Elyse has grown very fond of the bath. She runs up the stairs saying "go, go, hurry, hurry" when I say bath time. She stand in front of the tub and tries to take off her clothes. She lays down and acts like she is swimming through the shallow water. The water goes all over the floor and walls. I have to wear a poncho now giving her a bath, but she enjoys every single minute of it.

Valentine's Day

2008-03-11T17:45:00.000-07:00

This year was a nice Valentine's Day. I had someone special in my life other than of course my first love Elyse. Michael sent me flowers to work, we spent the evening together with the children eating steak! Elyse got some bath goodies for V-day! We drew all over the bathtub with some new bathtub crayons. Elyse is becoming quite the artist. I have a mural in the bathtub now:)

Leasey and her bebe dolls

2008-03-11T17:42:00.001-07:00

It is really amazing how I see Elyse doing things that I can't believe she has picked up on. She says "Amen" at the end of prayers. She gives her baby dolls bottles, food, and even changes their diapers. It is too cute. She loves to get in mommy's perfume. She grabs the bottle puts it up to her neck and says "shhshsh". She puts lotion on her hands and rubs it in. She copies everything I do and I have no idea that she is even paying attention. It makes you want to be very careful as parent, making sure she isn't picking up my bad habits:)

Junior Museum

2008-03-11T17:36:00.000-07:00

Michael and I took Leasey and Huntee to the Junior Museum to see all the animals. The kids liked the park a lot better than the animals however. Leasey went wild when I let her down to play on the swings and the slides. I can't believe how independent she is getting. We all rested after a long fun day. Boy it is easy to get tired when taking two little ones out.

Hunter's First Birthday

2008-03-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

Yummy, I think I like this!

I think I really like this!

Elyse and Caleb wait patiently for their turn to eat the CAKE!

What a long tiring day, Birthdays are a lot of work at this age!

Flowers smell good and Taste good

2008-01-05T09:21:00.000-08:00

A natural born artist?

2008-01-05T09:16:00.001-08:00

This is Elyse's first attempt to color. Uncle Mike gave her this for Christmas. My first thoughts were, "She is going to color my walls with crayons" But suprisingly she did very well.

Elyse's first artwork. I am a proud momma. Look out Monet.

Who's that?

2008-01-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Elyse picked up a picture of Nannie and Poppa. She said Nannie, Poppa and kissed the picture. OMG I almost lost it. It was so precious. She is learning so much. Her mind is a sponge.

The Rocking Chair

2008-01-05T09:11:00.001-08:00

Elyse got this rocking chair for Christmas. Thanks to Michael for so graciously putting it together for us. She loves it. She crawls up in it with her "bebe" and rocks her baby. She says "awwww".

Mr. Frosty

2008-01-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

This is as close to a snowman that we get in Florida.

Uncle Mike

2008-01-05T09:08:00.001-08:00

Christmas Morning

2008-01-05T09:05:00.000-08:00

This Christmas Elyse was a little more excited than last Christmas. Her eyes lit up when she saw the toys. It was so precious.

Christmas Break

2008-01-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

Finally, those 2 weeks came that I look forward to every year. Christmas break. I was so excited to get sometime to take care of Elyse and things at home. Of course it was nice to spend time with friends and family too. We headed to my mom's for the first part of the break. Michael and Hunter (Michael's son) joined us.The Disney Village

Leasey and Mommy

My mom bought her a purse and she loved and adored it. When I say time to go bye bye, she grabs her purse, just like mommy. I can't believe how she is acting like a "big girl" now. It makes me get emotional to think how fast this time goes.

Elyse is watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas on Christmas Eve. She is wearing her Christmas PJ's from Aunt Donna.

My little climber. She climbs on everything now. She loves to jump on the couch.

Snuggly Warm

2008-01-05T08:53:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we did have some cold weather here in Florida. So cold that I have to wrap Elyse up so tight so that she will stay warm. I think she is so cute, I couldn't resist sharing.

Chuckie Cheese

2008-01-05T08:49:00.001-08:00

We went to Chuckie Cheese for the first time. It was Kyla (Michael's niece) birthday. So we joined in on the fun. Elyse had a fun time. Of course she enjoyed the dancing with Chuckie!

Michael Millender

2008-01-05T08:45:00.000-08:00

Before I go any further, I should mention that I began dating someone. After many duds, my mentor Donna, set me up with this guy. Needlesss to say it worked out. So we have been seeing each other for about 3 months now. It is surreal sometimes to have someone in my life. He is a blessing to me. It is very new to me to have somone to help me with things that I always did myself. I have to admit, I kind of like it. So as the Lord leads.... we shall see.