Blogging, oddly enough, is a weird "burden". I love having one and long to be someone who journals everyday and uses it as a way to write down all the things I don't want to forget. One wouldn't know it but I really would love to have a blog that touches people. A place where I can be real and honest about what life is like as a women who is trying to figure out how to do these things called marriage, parenting and somehow trying to remember who I am outside of those two very defining roles, but holy moly its a lot of work! Ha! I mean honestly, I go so long between post that its hard to know what to post about. My life is moving at lightening speed how can I recap and move on. Apparently I have some OCD tendencies because its hard to just pick up and go forward without mentioning the 3000 big things that have happened since I posted last. For example since posting last I had another baby (Numero 4), Avery asked Jesus into her heart, we sold a house, built a house, and moved in, birthdays, birthdays, birthdays galore. Not to mention so many little things that were huge for us. Those are just a few but still how is a girl suppose to just start from today without giving each one of those precious big moments their special entry. Well I'm not sure, but today I enter a new decade of life so I figure if I'm going to give this another go, perhaps today is a good day. So here is to my 50th try at successful blogging. Please check back often but don't judge if I totally drop the ball....again.
Today I'm thirty and crazy enough woke singing Tim McGraws Next Thirty Years and I've been singing it all day (Lord please send me another song). The last 10 years have been so amazing and FAST and also very S L O W. How does that work?? I have no idea! I have been thinking the last few days about the last 10 years. I moved to Fayetteville and moved in with a total stranger (no joke). It was a blessing because she is my best friend, her family is my family, and she introduced me to my husband. So let me quickly recap the last 10 years. I moved to Fayetteville, went to nursing school, became a wife , built our first house, graduated nursing school, got pregnant, had my heart broken when I miscarried,our God is gracious and we got pregnant very quickly afterwards with Roman, Became a mom, quit working at the hospital to stay home (never went back),Suffered another miscarriage but again God is good! He blessed us again when 11 months later we had Avery Claire, became landlords, bought a home, SURPRISED when we got pregnant with Ella (I know you seem to be reading the same thing over and over...yep we had a lot of babies pretty fast). Life was pretty crazy so guess what we did.....Right! We got pregnant, sold our house, started building again. Had our fourth baby, Beckem. Last June we moved again (and hopefully the last time) and life has been a wild ride.
We've been challenged and God has been stirring our hearts to do more. In October we started thinking about foster care and adoption. We are now in the process of getting our home open and will start fostering and Lord willing adopt through the system. More on that at another time! We are excited (although it was a journey to get there). We've been reminded when God lays something on your heart just go with it. He's with us and as we seek Him crazy changes happen in our heart. The desires of our heart align with his will. That's where I want to be!
My husband turned 30 a week ago and I told him maybe our thirties would slow down a bit but I think we both know we really don't want that. We love our crazy life and all the craziness that comes with it. So here I go. I'm hoping to bring it in my THIRTIES!
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
To Homeschool or Not...that is the question.
We are almost finished building our home and I've thought to myself several times (by several I mean a thousand), "what in the world will I think about when this house is built"? It has consumed my mind since The very beginning. Pinterest has been my best friend and together we have built a beautiful home...ha...with the help of the hubs and the builder of course. We can't wait to be there and I have so many hopes and dreams for that place.
As if on cue, at the end of a major project, my mind is heavily rethinking and pondering the idea of plunging into the world of homeschool next year. I swear its because I had no idea what I would be thinking about. HA! Well all I can say is this time I'm not pregnant.We do seem to hop from one "big" project to the next. This isn't completely a new idea. Last year we visited it pretty hard but fortunately we were able to sell or house and get Roman into a much better school district and this year has been wonderful. I have no complaints over his education. He adjusted wonderfully, had a great teacher, and has made good friends. He's involved in sports and dad coaches we have had a great year. My point in saying all that is, a bad year has not led me back here. It's simply a desire that began stirring last year and has continued to grow.
If you would have told me that I would have considering home school 2 years ago I would have said, "no way" yet here I am. I don't just want to consider it I already feel
committed to it. I desperately want to do it but I'm so afraid I will fail at it. I was telling JM tonight that I know I'm a romantic, I always see thing through rose colored glasses. I always want/expect things to go perfectly and I'm really upset when they don't. I don't always think its a bad thing but its often not my best asset. I read blogs of families who home school some say they were hesitant to start but that it has changed their lives for the better and that now they cant imagine doing anything different. That's what I want to look back and say!
What really is motivating me:
I miss my kid. This may sound selfish and probably is but our morning starts at 6. we rush to make it to school by 715 then he's gone until I pick him up at 230. We get home around 3. He's tired and ready for his "alone time". Before we know its dinner then bed and i haven't had much time and certainly not much quality time with him in 5 days.
I feel like of the 8 hours he's at school he's really doing about 3 hours of school. Judging by the amount of "busy" work and movies they watch I feel pretty confident saying that.
I dont like or agree with the new common core curriculum...cue lots of debate : ) I know everyone has an opinion on this. Its not for me.
I like the ability to go on our own schedule. Encourage learning by having the time to dive into things that really interest him. Time to be hands on.
I want to be have more control over what my son leans socially. Right now my kid loves playing legos, talking Minecraft, and being a boy. We haven't had one disciplinary problem this year. Thankfully we haven't even had to discuss a bad word he's learned at school. Again, not coming to this because of bad experiences, but that times coming. I know that because I see it, I have friends who have children a little older than mine.For example, I want to decide when I want to discuss sex, how I want to explain. The "worldview"isn't my view and isn't what I want my son to be submerged in. I want him to have a high respect for woman (this is not a cultural thing today). I'm not going to put him in a box or shield from all that's out there, but I sure will shelter him appropriately and I can do that so much easier in my own home.
He's a boy and I want it to be ok to act like one. Boys love wrestling, cops and robbers, cowboys and indians. Is it indicative of a boy whos going to turn killer?? No! its called being a boy. In 8 hours they have 30 minutes of play and this may or may not include their eating time. Roman was sent home with a bad behavior card last year because when he dropped his pencil he rolled on the floor to pick it up. Seriously, maybe explain that it would be better just to grab the pencil and get back in your seat. Rolling on the floor is disruptive, absolutely, but bad behavior. For real...he's a boy. Society has gone bonkers. Now a young boy can get suspended for making a gun with their hands or heaven forbid biting a gun shape into his sandwich. Are you kidding me?!
There is the issue of safety...just watch the news.
As far as my concern about being socially awkward. I don't buy into this "theory". My husband was home schooled. He's definitely not awkward, he has a very successful career, one that requires tons of social ability and he handles it amazingly. oddly enough, even though i wasn't home schooled, most of the people I surround myself around on a daily basis were and not one is socially awkward at all.
These are a few of my reasons. I could list many more. My biggest concern....My ability to balance it all.
Maybe I have found something to use my blog for....maybe : )
~S
P.S. If you are reading this thinking this girl should not teach her children look at all these grammar and punctuation mistakes....1. You have a point...Ha! 2. I'm holding a baby which is equivalent to an alligator these days so have a little grace : )
What really is motivating me:
I miss my kid. This may sound selfish and probably is but our morning starts at 6. we rush to make it to school by 715 then he's gone until I pick him up at 230. We get home around 3. He's tired and ready for his "alone time". Before we know its dinner then bed and i haven't had much time and certainly not much quality time with him in 5 days.
I feel like of the 8 hours he's at school he's really doing about 3 hours of school. Judging by the amount of "busy" work and movies they watch I feel pretty confident saying that.
I dont like or agree with the new common core curriculum...cue lots of debate : ) I know everyone has an opinion on this. Its not for me.
I like the ability to go on our own schedule. Encourage learning by having the time to dive into things that really interest him. Time to be hands on.
I want to be have more control over what my son leans socially. Right now my kid loves playing legos, talking Minecraft, and being a boy. We haven't had one disciplinary problem this year. Thankfully we haven't even had to discuss a bad word he's learned at school. Again, not coming to this because of bad experiences, but that times coming. I know that because I see it, I have friends who have children a little older than mine.For example, I want to decide when I want to discuss sex, how I want to explain. The "worldview"isn't my view and isn't what I want my son to be submerged in. I want him to have a high respect for woman (this is not a cultural thing today). I'm not going to put him in a box or shield from all that's out there, but I sure will shelter him appropriately and I can do that so much easier in my own home.
He's a boy and I want it to be ok to act like one. Boys love wrestling, cops and robbers, cowboys and indians. Is it indicative of a boy whos going to turn killer?? No! its called being a boy. In 8 hours they have 30 minutes of play and this may or may not include their eating time. Roman was sent home with a bad behavior card last year because when he dropped his pencil he rolled on the floor to pick it up. Seriously, maybe explain that it would be better just to grab the pencil and get back in your seat. Rolling on the floor is disruptive, absolutely, but bad behavior. For real...he's a boy. Society has gone bonkers. Now a young boy can get suspended for making a gun with their hands or heaven forbid biting a gun shape into his sandwich. Are you kidding me?!
There is the issue of safety...just watch the news.
As far as my concern about being socially awkward. I don't buy into this "theory". My husband was home schooled. He's definitely not awkward, he has a very successful career, one that requires tons of social ability and he handles it amazingly. oddly enough, even though i wasn't home schooled, most of the people I surround myself around on a daily basis were and not one is socially awkward at all.
These are a few of my reasons. I could list many more. My biggest concern....My ability to balance it all.
Maybe I have found something to use my blog for....maybe : )
~S
P.S. If you are reading this thinking this girl should not teach her children look at all these grammar and punctuation mistakes....1. You have a point...Ha! 2. I'm holding a baby which is equivalent to an alligator these days so have a little grace : )
Sunday, September 01, 2013
Avery Claire is 4
Dear Avery,
Happy 4th birthday! I can't believe that you are four years old! Everyone always says that, me included, but I am so surprised by how quickly you went from a little baby to a big girl. You are so kind and loving. You have enough energy for 10 people and keep us running. You are a mini me and I love that so much, sometimes I look at you and its like I'm looking at myself. You are so funny and full of expression, your big eyes always full of smile and light.
You are going to be a big sister again in a few weeks. I know you will be a huge helper and will love him so much. When I got pregnant with Ella I was so scared that having her when you were so little would somehow make you grow up quicker.In a way it did. You all the sudden seemed so big and the next year flew by so fast. New babies and a new home have a way of speeding a year up. Well turns out that God knew what he was doing, he always does. You and Ella are best friends and I pray you will always be as close you are now. The bigger Ella gets the more I am asked if you two are twins, and its kinda like you are. You enjoy a lot of the same things and can (almost) share clothes. Its fun and I'm so glad God surprised us with her. You and Roman have a blast together too. You love dress up and all things girly but you sure can hang with the boys. You love spending time playing video games with him and starting in the spring you will both play t ball. You are super excited about that. He's a great big brother and he's pretty crazy about you too!
You've been so excited to celebrate your birthday and have your party. You wanted a luau. We decided to have it at the park and when we pulled up another person was setting up for a party in the pavilion so we moved it (very) last minute to another park . You rolled with it never disappointed at all. It was a disaster...ha. It was so windy and I couldn't decorate very well at all. It was hot and the flies honed in on the food so fast....eek! We had a super small turn out and I was so discouraged. I was in tears (we'll blame that on the pregnancy hormones) . I bring all that up to help myself remember what, in retrospect, is so special to me about that day. You never noticed the small turnout, the heat, the flies, and no decorations. Instead my sweet girl was out inviting the rest of the park kids to her party and asking if anyone would like some cake. That so perfectly describes you. You are beautiful on the outside but baby you are gorgeous on the inside. That beauty radiates out. I'm so proud of the lovely girl you are and I'm so honored to be your mom. You bless us so much everday!
This year you asked Jesus into your heart! You watched Roman pray a few months before and talked about it all the time. We prayed with you and you were so excited to share that news. Avery, Jesus loves you so much. He created you with a unique and important purpose and I'm so excited to walk beside you as you discover what His will for your life is and I will support you always. You are my daughter and this year you became my sister. I'm so proud of you!
I love you so much!
Mom
Happy 4th birthday! I can't believe that you are four years old! Everyone always says that, me included, but I am so surprised by how quickly you went from a little baby to a big girl. You are so kind and loving. You have enough energy for 10 people and keep us running. You are a mini me and I love that so much, sometimes I look at you and its like I'm looking at myself. You are so funny and full of expression, your big eyes always full of smile and light.
You are going to be a big sister again in a few weeks. I know you will be a huge helper and will love him so much. When I got pregnant with Ella I was so scared that having her when you were so little would somehow make you grow up quicker.In a way it did. You all the sudden seemed so big and the next year flew by so fast. New babies and a new home have a way of speeding a year up. Well turns out that God knew what he was doing, he always does. You and Ella are best friends and I pray you will always be as close you are now. The bigger Ella gets the more I am asked if you two are twins, and its kinda like you are. You enjoy a lot of the same things and can (almost) share clothes. Its fun and I'm so glad God surprised us with her. You and Roman have a blast together too. You love dress up and all things girly but you sure can hang with the boys. You love spending time playing video games with him and starting in the spring you will both play t ball. You are super excited about that. He's a great big brother and he's pretty crazy about you too!
You've been so excited to celebrate your birthday and have your party. You wanted a luau. We decided to have it at the park and when we pulled up another person was setting up for a party in the pavilion so we moved it (very) last minute to another park . You rolled with it never disappointed at all. It was a disaster...ha. It was so windy and I couldn't decorate very well at all. It was hot and the flies honed in on the food so fast....eek! We had a super small turn out and I was so discouraged. I was in tears (we'll blame that on the pregnancy hormones) . I bring all that up to help myself remember what, in retrospect, is so special to me about that day. You never noticed the small turnout, the heat, the flies, and no decorations. Instead my sweet girl was out inviting the rest of the park kids to her party and asking if anyone would like some cake. That so perfectly describes you. You are beautiful on the outside but baby you are gorgeous on the inside. That beauty radiates out. I'm so proud of the lovely girl you are and I'm so honored to be your mom. You bless us so much everday!
This year you asked Jesus into your heart! You watched Roman pray a few months before and talked about it all the time. We prayed with you and you were so excited to share that news. Avery, Jesus loves you so much. He created you with a unique and important purpose and I'm so excited to walk beside you as you discover what His will for your life is and I will support you always. You are my daughter and this year you became my sister. I'm so proud of you!
I love you so much!
Mom
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Show Us Your Singles
I was so disappointed last year when I realized I missed Kellys SUYL Singles! This year I made certain I did NOT miss it again. My brother is the best guy I know and I had to take the opportunity to "show" him off : )
This is my brother Chris, he will be 24 February 20th. We are almost 4 years apart and hes always been my best friend.
This is my brother Chris, he will be 24 February 20th. We are almost 4 years apart and hes always been my best friend.
Chris is one of the sweetest guys that I know. He's a true southern gentleman! He's got a great sense of humor and always has people laughing. He loves his family, thats definitely his pride and joy. He's just recently moved back to our hometown after finishing school to become an aircraft engineer. He's always loved airplanes and still does! Right now, he works at our family's aircraft refurbishment company. I know he's going to go far and that God has an awesome plan for his life!
When Chris was in High School he played football for the Mena Bearcats, then played for Ouachita Baptist as well. He still LOVES football and the Razorbacks (especially when we are doing good : ))!
He really enjoys the gym and working out. He feels best when hes doing something in nature. He loves floating on the river, camping, hiking, mountain climbing, and chilling with his dog, Duke. His perfect date would be picnic on the lake probably followed with a boat ride or hiking the trails together.
my brother Nick (left) sister Adrienne, and brother Chris,( right)
Like I said earlier, my brother's passion, is his family. There is nothing he wouldn't do for any of us! I would say his favorite person is our grandma. He always takes the time to sit and takes the extra effort to really know how you are doing. Chris loves his nephew and two nieces. He spoils them and if I do say so myself, they are CRAZY about him too! When asked to describe Chris in one word here are some of the replies: Destined,Enjoyable, Darling, Loyal, Sweet,Loved, Inventive, Mysterious, Funny,Happy and Thoughtful the list could go on and on!
Chris and my daughter, Avery
Chris and my son, Roman, jammin : )
I've been praying for Chris' future wife for a long time and I know that God has a wonderful girl that He is preparing for Chris right now and I KNOW that girl will be one lucky girl to be with this great guy!
You can comment here and I'll get you in touch with him or you can email me stephanielaney@yahoo.com.
Oh....He has killer blue eyes as well : )
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
Bye bye 2012 and Hello 2013
I read a facebook status today that said today the movie 2012 is officially a comedy. I had to laugh, I've never put any weight on the whole 2012 theory but I will admit I held my breath a little 12/21/12 at 11:59 pm, thankfully we are all here and another year awaits us. I'm a junkie for New Years resolutions and fresh slates, it feels good to know that I can start over and change some habits and behaviors with a new year beginning. I'm also reminded that His mercies are new every morning and that the fresh slate is available to me everyday, but it does feel especially good the first day of a new year. So, here are a few of my new years resolutions. You may notice that none of these include weight. First.Time.Ever. Unfortunately its not because I don't need to lose weight I just decided not to make it a resolution. So there...ha!
2013 Resolutions....{drum roll please}
Happy New Year!
2013 Resolutions....{drum roll please}
- Give more (specifically to the church)--I've noticed that I do very poorly here and really want to restructure my (our) spending be able to give more to our church and various mission projects that I love
- Eat out less and Cook at home more (this may help with the weight and the spending : ))
- Cook more in my crockpot! Suggestions welcome. I love when I do use my crockpot but I don't do it very often. This year that will change
- Find room in my day for some sort of exercise. Elliptical, walking, videos, dancing with the kids (that counts, right) whatever, just exercise
- Do more furniture, sewing and crafting this year. Maybe even start an etsy shiop or facebook page, that would be fun!
Happy New Year!
Monday, April 02, 2012
April 2nd--The day my son accepted Christ
Wow! That describes this day. I woke up rushed and slightly overwhelmed. I had to get everyone up, dressed, lunch packed ( I didn't prepare well the night before), backpacks ready and out the door by 8:30. Roman had MDO and I had to get to kindergarten registration. I can't believe my little baby is going to kindergarten this fall. No tears were shed during registration Avery kept me far to busy for any sentiment ha!
Anyways, on the way to school we prayed for our day then out of the blue Roman said, "mama last night when I was in my bed I asked Jesus into my heart because he loves me and I love him so much." What?! Ever had one of those moments that stop you in your tracks. You instantly have a grin so big and you can't wipe it off your face, but at the same time you want to cry, scream and laugh. Ha! That was me in my car in the Cross Church parking lot. My son just told me he accepted Christ. My son, my brother!
I've prayed everytime that I've prayed for Roman that he would know Christ and that he would accept him early in life and he would be used as a mighty man of God to lead others to Him! After hugging, kissing and congratulating Roman went into his class. Me on the other hand cried and thanked Jesus for his salvation all the way to registration. Not exactly the tears I expected on registration day : ) Way better.
When Roman got home we were sitting at the table. I asked him what made him think about asking Jesus into his heart last night. We've talked about it a lot but we haven't lately. We've talked a lot about Easter, Jesus dying on the cross and raising from the dead, but not specifically salvation. He told me Jesus did. I asked did you think about it or have a dream. He said, " In my dream Jesus told me he loved me and wanted me to ask him into my heart". Yes, I had another one of those moments. He was so smiley, happy and innocent. Amazing!
I feel so overwhelmed with gratefulness! I told Roman this was the greatest thing he will ever do (and he's 4). Roman is so kind, gentle, patient and loving. He has such a sweet spirit. I know God has huge plans for him. I'm so thankful that God blessed me with Roman Carter Laney! I'm thankful I get to be his mom, and I pray for the wisdom and discernment to put into Roman what will shine as a bright light as it comes out of him. Use me as a vessel, God and Use Roman as well. Thank you for dying for us, for interceeding on our behalf. Thank you for our SALVATION!!
Roman, I'm so proud of you! I love you!!
Anyways, on the way to school we prayed for our day then out of the blue Roman said, "mama last night when I was in my bed I asked Jesus into my heart because he loves me and I love him so much." What?! Ever had one of those moments that stop you in your tracks. You instantly have a grin so big and you can't wipe it off your face, but at the same time you want to cry, scream and laugh. Ha! That was me in my car in the Cross Church parking lot. My son just told me he accepted Christ. My son, my brother!
I've prayed everytime that I've prayed for Roman that he would know Christ and that he would accept him early in life and he would be used as a mighty man of God to lead others to Him! After hugging, kissing and congratulating Roman went into his class. Me on the other hand cried and thanked Jesus for his salvation all the way to registration. Not exactly the tears I expected on registration day : ) Way better.
When Roman got home we were sitting at the table. I asked him what made him think about asking Jesus into his heart last night. We've talked about it a lot but we haven't lately. We've talked a lot about Easter, Jesus dying on the cross and raising from the dead, but not specifically salvation. He told me Jesus did. I asked did you think about it or have a dream. He said, " In my dream Jesus told me he loved me and wanted me to ask him into my heart". Yes, I had another one of those moments. He was so smiley, happy and innocent. Amazing!
I feel so overwhelmed with gratefulness! I told Roman this was the greatest thing he will ever do (and he's 4). Roman is so kind, gentle, patient and loving. He has such a sweet spirit. I know God has huge plans for him. I'm so thankful that God blessed me with Roman Carter Laney! I'm thankful I get to be his mom, and I pray for the wisdom and discernment to put into Roman what will shine as a bright light as it comes out of him. Use me as a vessel, God and Use Roman as well. Thank you for dying for us, for interceeding on our behalf. Thank you for our SALVATION!!
Roman, I'm so proud of you! I love you!!
Thursday, March 08, 2012
A letter to Ella on her First Birthday
Dear Ella,
Tomorrow you will be ONE! I can't even believe it. You're my third and of all three of you your first year has gone by the fastest. It makes me sad. When people ask me how old you are I still want to say 7 months..ha! Don't ask why its 7 months, but I do. It's so hard to believe you are one. You are our little surprise. It's a funny story, so on the eve of your first birthday, I think I will share : ) We had just moved to our new house, Avery was 8 months old, and we had just booked our first vacation just daddy and I for Mexico. I was feeling kinda sensitive, more emotional, than normal. I was exhausted and (the tale tale sign for your mama) I started having break outs on my face. I joked with daddy that I may be pregnant. He laughed and said, "That would be fun, its about time we have another baby", remember Avery was 8 months old. Anyways, one day while I was doing our big grocery trip I just decided to get a pregnancy test, you know just to put that question out of my mind. So while I was unloading groceries I ran into the bathroom, took the test, and continued to unload groceries. I knew it would negative but I needed to be certain so imagine my surprise when I walked in and before my eyes was a bright pink + sign. You know how I told your dad, I text him. Ha! I sent him a picture of the test and it said, Ready to have another baby?
I have to be honest I'm a planner and I was completely taken off guard. I was selfish and worried if I would enjoy Mexico as much being pregnant, I worried because I still hadn't lost my weight from having Avery, I was worried about Avery. I thought that having another baby would somehow take away from her "babyhood" and was just scared that I wasn't ready yet to have another baby.
Well you know what? You were the BEST surprise ever! I'm so glad that the unexpected happened to me. I loved Mexico, I still haven't lost all the weight and you and your sister are close in age and will always be so close in life. None of those fears ever amounted to anything!
My pregnancy was wonderful and my delivery couldn't have been better. 3 pushes and you were here.You were so mad and didn't stop crying for what felt like HOURS and baby you were so red..ha! You were/are absolutely beautiful. You fit immediately into our family. Roman adored you and Avery was smitten. They still do/are. You are such an incredibly blessing to our family!
You look like your daddy and your brother. I love it! Your baby pictures and Roman's are, at times, almost identical. People say your looks are definitely Laney, although, I see myself every once in awhile. You are a momma's girl and still want me close most of the time. You sleep like a champ taking two naps a day and all through the night. You are smaller than your brother and sister at one. You weigh a little over 20 pounds and wear 12/18 month clothes. You say mama, dada, roro,bye bye, and lots of jibberish : ) You love to clap your hands to music and love "If your happy and you know clap your hands." You finally will stay in a nursery. Thanks for that.
You are a pure joy to me and to all of us.
Here is what I pray and claim over you,
I pray that you will be healthy and strong. That you will grow to be a women of character and virtue, That you will love Jesus with your whole heart and you will come to know him early in your life and will be sensitive to him and his guidance. That you will have a discerning heart and won't be easily swayed by the "stuff" thats in this world. That you will be a confident girl and women. Who knows she's beautiful both inside and out but also understands that true beauty is inner beauty. That you will honor your dad and I bc that the first command with promise and its a good promise : ) That you will love and be close to your brother and sister, and lastly (I got this from Mrs. Gwen and I loved it) I pray you will be a mighty warrior in His kindgdom!
I love you Isabella Kate Laney. Happy 1st birthday (in 54 minutes).
Love,
Mom
Tomorrow you will be ONE! I can't even believe it. You're my third and of all three of you your first year has gone by the fastest. It makes me sad. When people ask me how old you are I still want to say 7 months..ha! Don't ask why its 7 months, but I do. It's so hard to believe you are one. You are our little surprise. It's a funny story, so on the eve of your first birthday, I think I will share : ) We had just moved to our new house, Avery was 8 months old, and we had just booked our first vacation just daddy and I for Mexico. I was feeling kinda sensitive, more emotional, than normal. I was exhausted and (the tale tale sign for your mama) I started having break outs on my face. I joked with daddy that I may be pregnant. He laughed and said, "That would be fun, its about time we have another baby", remember Avery was 8 months old. Anyways, one day while I was doing our big grocery trip I just decided to get a pregnancy test, you know just to put that question out of my mind. So while I was unloading groceries I ran into the bathroom, took the test, and continued to unload groceries. I knew it would negative but I needed to be certain so imagine my surprise when I walked in and before my eyes was a bright pink + sign. You know how I told your dad, I text him. Ha! I sent him a picture of the test and it said, Ready to have another baby?
I have to be honest I'm a planner and I was completely taken off guard. I was selfish and worried if I would enjoy Mexico as much being pregnant, I worried because I still hadn't lost my weight from having Avery, I was worried about Avery. I thought that having another baby would somehow take away from her "babyhood" and was just scared that I wasn't ready yet to have another baby.
Well you know what? You were the BEST surprise ever! I'm so glad that the unexpected happened to me. I loved Mexico, I still haven't lost all the weight and you and your sister are close in age and will always be so close in life. None of those fears ever amounted to anything!
My pregnancy was wonderful and my delivery couldn't have been better. 3 pushes and you were here.You were so mad and didn't stop crying for what felt like HOURS and baby you were so red..ha! You were/are absolutely beautiful. You fit immediately into our family. Roman adored you and Avery was smitten. They still do/are. You are such an incredibly blessing to our family!
You look like your daddy and your brother. I love it! Your baby pictures and Roman's are, at times, almost identical. People say your looks are definitely Laney, although, I see myself every once in awhile. You are a momma's girl and still want me close most of the time. You sleep like a champ taking two naps a day and all through the night. You are smaller than your brother and sister at one. You weigh a little over 20 pounds and wear 12/18 month clothes. You say mama, dada, roro,bye bye, and lots of jibberish : ) You love to clap your hands to music and love "If your happy and you know clap your hands." You finally will stay in a nursery. Thanks for that.
You are a pure joy to me and to all of us.
Here is what I pray and claim over you,
I pray that you will be healthy and strong. That you will grow to be a women of character and virtue, That you will love Jesus with your whole heart and you will come to know him early in your life and will be sensitive to him and his guidance. That you will have a discerning heart and won't be easily swayed by the "stuff" thats in this world. That you will be a confident girl and women. Who knows she's beautiful both inside and out but also understands that true beauty is inner beauty. That you will honor your dad and I bc that the first command with promise and its a good promise : ) That you will love and be close to your brother and sister, and lastly (I got this from Mrs. Gwen and I loved it) I pray you will be a mighty warrior in His kindgdom!
I love you Isabella Kate Laney. Happy 1st birthday (in 54 minutes).
Love,
Mom
A Letter to Ella on her First Birthday
Dear Ella,
Tomorrow you will be ONE! I can't even believe it. You're my third and of all three of you your first year has gone by the fastest. It makes me sad. When people ask me how old you are I still want to say 7 months..ha! Don't ask why its 7 months, but I do. It's so hard to believe you are one. You are our little surprise. It's a funny story, so on the eve of your first birthday, I think I will share : ) We had just moved to our new house, Avery was 8 months old, and we had just booked our first vacation just daddy and I for Mexico. I was feeling kinda sensitive, more emotional, than normal. I was exhausted and (the tale tale sign for your mama) I started having break outs on my face. I joked with daddy that I may be pregnant. He laughed and said, "That would be fun, its about time we have another baby", remember Avery was 8 months old. Anyways, one day while I was doing our big grocery trip I just decided to get a pregnancy test, you know just to put that question out of my mind. So while I was unloading groceries I ran into the bathroom, took the test, and continued to unload groceries. I knew it would negative but I needed to be certain so imagine my surprise when I walked in and before my eyes was a bright pink + sign. You know how I told your dad, I text him. Ha! I sent him a picture of the test and it said, Ready to have another baby?
I have to be honest I'm a planner and I was completely taken off guard. I was selfish and worried if I would enjoy Mexico as much being pregnant, I worried because I still hadn't lost my weight from having Avery, I was worried about Avery. I thought that having another baby would somehow take away from her "babyhood" and was just scared that I wasn't ready yet to have another baby.
Well you know what? You were the BEST surprise ever! I'm so glad that the unexpected happened to me. I loved Mexico, I still haven't lost all the weight and you and your sister are close in age and will always be so close in life. None of those fears ever amounted to anything!
My pregnancy was wonderful and my delivery couldn't have been better. 3 pushes and you were here.You were so mad and didn't stop crying for what felt like HOURS and baby you were so red..ha! You were/are absolutely beautiful. You fit immediately into our family. Roman adored you and Avery was smitten. They still do/are. You are such an incredibly blessing to our family!
You look like your daddy and your brother. I love it! Your baby pictures and Roman's are, at times, almost identical. People say your looks are definitely Laney, although, I see myself every once in awhile. You are a momma's girl and still want me close most of the time. You sleep like a champ taking two naps a day and all through the night. You are smaller than your brother and sister at one. You weigh a little over 20 pounds and wear 12/18 month clothes. You say mama, dada, roro,bye bye, and lots of jibberish : ) You love to clap your hands to music and love "If your happy and you know clap your hands." You finally will stay in a nursery. Thanks for that.
You are a pure joy to me and to all of us.
Here is what I pray and claim over you,
I pray that you will be healthy and strong. That you will grow to be a women of character and virtue, That you will love Jesus with your whole heart and you will come to know him early in your life and will be sensitive to him and his guidance. That you will have a discerning heart and won't be easily swayed by the "stuff" thats in this world. That you will be a confident girl and women. Who knows she's beautiful both inside and out but also understands that true beauty is inner beauty. That you will honor your dad and I bc that the first command with promise and its a good promise : ) That you will love and be close to your brother and sister, and lastly (I got this from Mrs. Gwen and I loved it) I pray you will be a mighty warrior in His kindgdom!
I love you Isabella Kate Laney. Happy 1st birthday (in 54 minutes).
Love,
Mom
Tomorrow you will be ONE! I can't even believe it. You're my third and of all three of you your first year has gone by the fastest. It makes me sad. When people ask me how old you are I still want to say 7 months..ha! Don't ask why its 7 months, but I do. It's so hard to believe you are one. You are our little surprise. It's a funny story, so on the eve of your first birthday, I think I will share : ) We had just moved to our new house, Avery was 8 months old, and we had just booked our first vacation just daddy and I for Mexico. I was feeling kinda sensitive, more emotional, than normal. I was exhausted and (the tale tale sign for your mama) I started having break outs on my face. I joked with daddy that I may be pregnant. He laughed and said, "That would be fun, its about time we have another baby", remember Avery was 8 months old. Anyways, one day while I was doing our big grocery trip I just decided to get a pregnancy test, you know just to put that question out of my mind. So while I was unloading groceries I ran into the bathroom, took the test, and continued to unload groceries. I knew it would negative but I needed to be certain so imagine my surprise when I walked in and before my eyes was a bright pink + sign. You know how I told your dad, I text him. Ha! I sent him a picture of the test and it said, Ready to have another baby?
I have to be honest I'm a planner and I was completely taken off guard. I was selfish and worried if I would enjoy Mexico as much being pregnant, I worried because I still hadn't lost my weight from having Avery, I was worried about Avery. I thought that having another baby would somehow take away from her "babyhood" and was just scared that I wasn't ready yet to have another baby.
Well you know what? You were the BEST surprise ever! I'm so glad that the unexpected happened to me. I loved Mexico, I still haven't lost all the weight and you and your sister are close in age and will always be so close in life. None of those fears ever amounted to anything!
My pregnancy was wonderful and my delivery couldn't have been better. 3 pushes and you were here.You were so mad and didn't stop crying for what felt like HOURS and baby you were so red..ha! You were/are absolutely beautiful. You fit immediately into our family. Roman adored you and Avery was smitten. They still do/are. You are such an incredibly blessing to our family!
You look like your daddy and your brother. I love it! Your baby pictures and Roman's are, at times, almost identical. People say your looks are definitely Laney, although, I see myself every once in awhile. You are a momma's girl and still want me close most of the time. You sleep like a champ taking two naps a day and all through the night. You are smaller than your brother and sister at one. You weigh a little over 20 pounds and wear 12/18 month clothes. You say mama, dada, roro,bye bye, and lots of jibberish : ) You love to clap your hands to music and love "If your happy and you know clap your hands." You finally will stay in a nursery. Thanks for that.
You are a pure joy to me and to all of us.
Here is what I pray and claim over you,
I pray that you will be healthy and strong. That you will grow to be a women of character and virtue, That you will love Jesus with your whole heart and you will come to know him early in your life and will be sensitive to him and his guidance. That you will have a discerning heart and won't be easily swayed by the "stuff" thats in this world. That you will be a confident girl and women. Who knows she's beautiful both inside and out but also understands that true beauty is inner beauty. That you will honor your dad and I bc that the first command with promise and its a good promise : ) That you will love and be close to your brother and sister, and lastly (I got this from Mrs. Gwen and I loved it) I pray you will be a mighty warrior in His kindgdom!
I love you Isabella Kate Laney. Happy 1st birthday (in 54 minutes).
Love,
Mom
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