Picking the Apples of Your Life

My husband wanted me to read this. It encouraged and blessed me, as I hope it will for you -- if you need it.

Three years ago...

...A little girl was born at home (with the assistance of two wonderful midwives). Two weeks early she came at 8lbs. 3 oz. --- we were thankful she was early. She had a head full of dark hair that is now blond, and beautiful blue eyes. She isn't a baby anymore but a three year old little lady. Eleanor is sweet, talkative, crazy about her little brother, Mommy's helper and Daddy's partner. When Ellie was born we didn't know ANYTHING about babies, I remember calling a friend from church about all the ways to burp a baby! Poor Ellie...I'm so thankful she is still alive! ha ha--- In these three years we have learned so much. We know how to burp a baby now, but God has mostly taught us about love, mercy, forgiveness, longsuffering, compassion, self control, creativity, prayer, faith, trust, and joy. Children are an inheritance and HAPPY are Clay and I because our quiver is getting filled. Those that put off children are missing out, not just on the fun and hilarity that kids are, but their sanctification process --- you want to learn all the stuff Paul teaches us to be with each other, the body of Christ, have kids. Have children, trust God, and enjoy the ride!

So, back to Eleanor...the other day she was telling me that a turtle is a turtle but a shark is...bigger. And today, Clay was talking about an ipod he wants to purchase and she keeps calling it a seedpod. That's my girl! What a gift God has given us, us who are young and clueless --- but us who are trying to live faithfully. We love you Ellie!!

Now...one year ago Athanasius was born! He was also born at home, with a head full of hair, three days over due weighing 8lbs. 1oz. And BOY what a blessing he has been to our home, he spiced up the personality just a little bit more. He is a boy, he loves to bang things, pull things out of my cabinets, play with big sis or take what big sis has. He looks little but he is strong and precise, he isn't clumsy. He is my cuddle bug, and loves when Daddy comes home. He has received three haircuts thus far. And Ellie everymorning, with out fail ask, "Can I get my brother." :) We love you Athanasius!! Happy Birthday to our babies and thank You God for allowing us to love and shepherd them!

Easter Part I

We are back from the dead! :) Here are some pictures from our Easter. Clay and Ellie went to church a lone because Athanasius had an ear infection and I was (still am) sick of sickness, so I wanted to nurse him back to complete health. These are pictures from when they got home from church and after lunch. I hope to post more of Ellie and Daddy in their Easter outfits and our lunch.


We did the "Resurrection eggs" activity with Ellie. It was so fun! She really enjoyed it and Clay and I had a good time getting it together and starting an Easter tradition.


Mommy is about to go and hide them...


She is about to go hunt down her eggs...really excited!





It was so fun watching her find them...and helping a little. :)


Waiting patiently for Daddy to find his place. (Each egg has something inside that goes along with the story of the crucifixion and resurrection and bible reading)


Opening an egg...this was her favorite part.


Athanasius enjoying the fun!


After we finished with the eggs we thought it would be fun to go to Dowling Park and see the geese. Well...Ellie didn't get a nap and fell asleep on the way there. We only live about five minutes from the park. :)


Athan, wide eyed and ready.


We think Ellie could have stayed right there in that spot for hours. What you don't know is that she is calling to the geese, "Come geese, come!" Over and over... :)


Athanasius doing his thing in the stroller.


Doesn't this look like a painting?


Two of my favorite people!




A very tired Eleanor, but thankful for the thing she is holding. Whenever she finds something like this I'm like, "Yeh honey, that's a seed pod." Clay makes fun of me. --- Hopefully more pictures to come!