The Spiveys

Our Christmas Traditions

2012-01-06T05:18:00.000-08:00

I wanted to go ahead and document our Christmas Traditions while it is still fresh : ) I never really blogged about it last year...I think because I was afraid of some judgment because of the way we do things. So, anyways, don't judge me. I know that we celebrate differently than some of you...and I'm ok with that. Hoping you will be too!

First, we made the decision last year that Santa wasn't going to be a big part of our Christmas tradition. I just couldn't reconcile that Santa has nothing to do with Jesus' birth and all in all I don't want my boys to be confused about why Christmas is so exciting. I want them to talk to Jesus when they are in bed at night- because He hears them. I want them to pour out their heart to him. Sometimes when it's communicated that we don't "do" Santa, I feel like it sounds like we don't allow our children to have fun on Christmas, or that we don't celebrate, or that we don't give our children gifts. It makes me sad. I love Christmas. I love it, not because of Santa, but because it is a celebration of a long awaited Saviour. A Saviour that has radically changed my life...and that makes me very, very excited. It is wonderful, and magical. I can't fathom why He would do that for me. But I am oh so thankful. So, anyways, that is my reason. And this next paragraph is going to be for my boys...in hopes that one day they read this blog.

My sweet, precious boys. I love you so much, and I want you to know why we decided to celebrate Christmas in this particular way. We decided it because we love Jesus...and it is our hope that above anything else, one day you will love Him too. He is the Gift and the Giver, and I pray that you will love Him with your whole heart. I know that in your young years, you will miss out on some of the magic that is called Santa. And it is my heartfelt prayer that when you look back you don't feel that you missed out, but that you feel you gained a deep, deep appreciation for a Saviour and a joy that is rooted in His love. I pray that the way your daddy and I live our lives in front of you day-to-day points you to this Saviour all year long. I want you to know that we are not keeping the Santa tradition from you because we don't want you to have fun...I hope that you know that we gave you different Christmas traditions in the hopes that your joy would be grounded in what is real. Jesus is real. Christmas is wonderful and exciting and magical and glorious. I hope you feel it. I hope you take great joy in it. And I hope that after all the gift-giving, you will be men that have deeply thankful hearts for the gift of Jesus, and men that are generous and display a heart that knows that it is truly more blessed to give than to receive. I love you, Your Mommy.
Whoosh. Now I am crying. Here is a lighter version of some of the traditions we have.

On Christmas Eve this year, we let the day be all about giving. The boys made Christmas cards for their friends and I made cookies and we took them to deliver them. We talked about Saint Nicholas, that he was a real, merciful, generous person. He gave gifts. So, we let the boys give gifts to their friends. It was so fun. Matt and I had Starbucks...yum. Super fun. Then we continued a family tradition of Matt's and had Pizza for a Christmas Eve Dinner...Uncle Mark and Aunt Tina came over to join us.

The boys opened one gift- matching pajamas.I wrapped Christmas books and the week leading up to Christmas, the boys got to pick out a wrapped book each night and open it. They had a lot of fun with it.

Uncle Mark and Aunt Tina read their Christmas book on Christmas Eve. Then, we all loaded up and drove around looking at Christmas lights. The boys LOVED it!! Then we sprinkled some reindeer food on the front lawn (we let the boys pretend, they just know that we are pretending).

Christmas morning started off with presents. Our tradition is for the boys to get 3 presents each because that is what Jesus got on the day of His birth. It's fun. This year I worried that I wasn't getting them enough...thankfully, a friend reminded me that they are blessed and have plenty. Very true. Here is Micah opening his first present- a baseball helmet! Hudson really, really wanted a helmet, so we decided to get them both one.

Hudson was pumped.

They were a little too small. Woops. We had to exchange them. Boys with big heads.

Hudson opening his tent.

They both got Cars watches.

This is the leggo table that we got them. It was their big "together" gift. They love it.

All the boys in the tent : ) What a great dad.

And then the last book I had wrapped under the tree was the Bible. Matt read the Christmas story to us all. It was beautiful.

Later in the day I let the boys "help" me make birthday cupcakes for Jesus' birth. Then we sang Happy Birthday and enjoyed. This was so much fun for 2 little boys.

They got to decorate their cupcakes...and added crushed peppermint for a Christmas twist.

Hudson's creation.

Our last event of the day was to have a big Christmas meal- ham, dressing, green beans, etc., and we had a family over for dinner. All in all, it was awesome. We continued a family tradition of breakfast casserole for Christmas breakfast. Matt and I loved it...the boys didn't love the casserole. Oh well. I pray we have many, many more years together celebrating and making family traditions.

Oh, How I Do Love Fall

2011-12-28T06:08:00.000-08:00

For all of our marriage, fall has been a super fun time and a sad time altogether. Usually Matt is up to his neck in basketball and then the time changes and it starts getting dark at 5:00...that equals hours that I need to entertain our kids AFTER dark. Well, after the job change this year, Matt was home more in the afternoons. Wow. Amazing. I didn't realize what I was missing.

Here are the boys carving our pumpkin with daddy.Ya think he's excited??
I think pumpkins are one of the main reasons I love fall!! I love all things pumpkin...homemade pumpkin soup is my favorite. Yum. But I also love pumpkin muffins, pumpkin spice coffee, etc. etc. etc. I love using all the yumminess after the carving for some homemade goodies.

We went to a halloween party at one of Hudson's friends' house. This is their best "mean" face!

Hudson was adamant about being a Pirate this year. So cute.

Our little small pirate. I could eat those cheeks.

Here are a couple of girls I've been hanging out with. They LOVED the hot chocolate at the Church 'Cars with Candy' event. Who am I kidding? So did I.

The boys enjoyed WAY too much candy. Micah didn't put any in his little pumpkin, he just walked around, played a game, and ate the piece he got. When he needed another piece, he played another game. Awesome.

Isn't this awesome?? I love Matt Spivey. A couple of years ago he was a pirate for VBS...so when the boys said they wanted to be Pirates, he was all for it. He dressed up too and took care of our game at the Cars with Candy event. Hilarious. Awesome. What a great dad. One day it won't be cool for him to dress up with the boys...until then, I'm sure he'll take full advantage : )

Top 10 Things

2011-12-27T06:14:00.000-08:00

That I want to blog about...geez. I get so far behind. Oh well. Here is a little preview for the events I'd like to document over the next few days. Anyone want to catch up on the Spivey family??? Hope you're still there!

HALLOWEEN - Super fun having daddy home this year. I love all things pumpkin...not necessarily Halloween, but we had a great time. Baby Shepard's Arrival!! My sweet friend Annie gave birth to her 4th child, Shepard. It was so precious. So thankful for her as a friend. And this little man is a DOLL. Christmas Tree Farm- We picked out our Christmas Tree the Sunday before Thanksgiving. So fun...even though it was 80 degrees outside. Seriously. Hudson is FIVE! What? Man, where has the time gone? I can't believe my baby is five. That seems so old. I can't wait to share all about my sweet boy and how we celebrated him this year.Parenting Woes- Yeah, I have a few woes to share. Had several issues over the past few weeks. I guess this will forever be my life. Community Group Christmas Party- I love this group. I am so thankful for them. We had a blast getting together for a little Christmas partying. Hudson's Christmas Program- My boys are so grown up. Hudson had a program & Micah had a party. They loved it...and I love their school. Christmas Family Traditions- I LOVE Christmas. Love it. And this year was no disappointment. We started several new family traditions to add to the ones we already had. And I love that. I love traditions. Did I say LOVE? Well, I do. We celebrate Christmas in a very specific way. I'd love to explain on here...not necessarily for advice, but so my boys will know that their mommy and daddy put lots of thought and prayer into how to celebrate Jesus' birth with them. I am certain we are messing it up somehow, but we care and we are seeking Him on it. Sweet Baby Girl- Whoosh. I need to share some thoughts on having this new addition : ) I'll just say that I was up most of the night that we revealed she was a girl...whoosh. I worried ALL night about having a girl. I'll fill in the details later. I'm very excited, but overwhelmed at the same time. Thankful to the Lord for entrusting us with a baby girl.

A Legacy- Matt's grandmother, GrandMary, went to be with Jesus a couple of weeks ago. I have so wanted to post about her legacy. She was a woman that loved Jesus. Both of her children walk with Him, her grandchildren. I can't wait to honor her with a post about how she left a legacy.

So, there you have it! I will get started tomorrow!

It's a.....

2011-10-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!
We. Are. Shocked. Aaand very excited!!! This little girl tried her best to not let us know...she kept her legs crossed almost the entire time! Finally she showed the secret!

We are so so excited to see a healthy baby- and I'm gonna have to get my mind wrapped around her being a girl.

Here are some pics from the reveal:

A few of the girls...thanks for making it special!

I love this picture...Katie, this might be 'best day of your life' pose. The cake. I loved it. I picked boy...Matt picked girl. Hence, the pink and blue : ) Table full of my cravings: apples & caramel, cucumbers & ranch, cheese ball, sausage balls.
Against my better judgment, 19 week pregnancy belly.

Pink or Blue???

2011-10-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

That is the question of the day...

We find out tomorrow! Yay! We are very excited to see this little bambino in action. Everyone has been guessing girl...I mean everyone. I remember when I was pregnant with Micah my grandmother said, "Maybe you'll have a girl and then ya'll will be done.". She was dead serious. I tried to explain to her that it didn't matter- and that we thought we wanted more kids anyway. So funny. But I do feel like this time so many people are hoping and hoping that it's a girl. We shall see. I really don't have that feeling that I have to have a girl. I don't see myself crying tomorrow if it's a girl or boy. I am praying that this little one looks healthy. I love love love my boys, so I certainly won't be disappointed if we are adding a third little man to the mix.

We are having a 'Baby Reveal' party tomorrow night. I'm super excited about that. Soooo....feel free to leave your vote. Do you think pink or blue?? Matt is guessing pink and I'm guessing blue. Atleast one of us will be right tomorrow! I'll let ya know : )

Sad Day

2011-10-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

Here's the conversation that went on today on the way home from school.

Hudson: "Hey, mommy. Why do those bigger kids have dark skin? Those kids that are older than me? Does your skin look like that when you get bigger, or did God just make it that way?".
Me: "God made it that way. He makes all of our skin exactly the way He wants it. And He chooses to make it all look different."
Hudson: "Oh...". (thinking)
Me: "Do you know that the Bible says that we're made in God's image? Do you know what that means?"
Hudson: "What?"
Me: "It means that it makes God really happy to make all of us very different...and that it makes Him happy because it shows us something about Him."

Why does this conversation make me so sad? On the one hand, I'm really glad that Hudson just thought his skin would change colors when he got older...and on the other hand, I'm really sad that he noticed. He's only 4 1/2...and I'm very aware of my ability to screw him up. I don't want to screw him up in this area. I want to get it right...sigh. Do you guys have any insight? Is there a better way to handle this conversation?

College

2011-10-06T04:50:00.000-07:00

I love this little kid. He is funny. He always keeps me on my toes because he has a billion questions and his mind never stops. We've had a funny conversation lately that has progressed and I just had to get it down to remember. Enjoy.

Part 1: (At the dinner table)

Hudson: "I'm ready to go to college..." - (He is saying this because Andy from Toy Story goes to college)
Me: "Ok. Well, can I drive you to college?"
H: Nodding like I'm an idiot, "Yeah.".
Me: "Can I pack your lunch??"
H: Again, acting like I'm losing it, "Sure. Do whatever you want." Looks at me like, 'Who else would pack my lunch?"
Me: "Can we put that in writing?"
H: Laughs hysterically though he really has no idea why it's funny.

Part 2: (Days later at the lunch table)
Hudson: "What school will I go to after college?"
Me: "Well, after college you get a job. Like, daddy chose to be a teacher after college, and Uncle Mark chose to be a banker. So, you decide what you want to be and get a job."
Hudson: Thinks intently. He has no words.

Part 3: (Atleast a week later)
Setting: Yesterday morning my van was having issues and I wasn't sure if I should drive it so I called the mechanic and they sent a tow truck to our house just to be safe. This was the ABSOLUTE coolest thing to two little boys! (it wasn't the coolest thing to their mommy, but nonetheless) They were enthralled as they watched the tow truck back into our yard.

Hudson: Smiling the cutest little smile, "Hey, mommy. You know what I wanna do affer college??"
Me: "What, buddy?"
H: Cute little grin, points to the tow truck.

Bahahaha! He has decided that he'll drive a tow truck after college. Hilarious. Boys are so so funny. It was great comic relief for my day.

Sigh.

2011-09-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

I. Can't. Get. It. Together.

Sigh. Am I the only one??? I feel like I clean my house ALL the time...and it is never clean. And lately I'm wondering, 'Am I spending enough time with my boys? Am I ignoring them to do my to-do list?'. Mommy guilt is a beast. I'm trying to remind myself to listen to the Lord and not my own guilty-conscience. I'll let you know how that goes.

On another less depressing note, Hudson's class had an "Umbrella Parade" last week. They were studying the short U sound and on Thursday they were all invited to bring their umbrellas for a parade. It was so cute and creative. I really love his school.

He was SO excited! He talked all week about the parade and said that he could "spin it or push it up and down". I guess they discussed all the different options for displaying their umbrellas during the parade. It was so cute.

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-08T04:22:00.000-07:00

This Thursday I am thankful that this little man decided to potty train himself on Sunday. Whaaat? It's really shocking to me. I have tried a couple of times to start the potty training process with him and he just wasn't ready. I would say, "Micah, you know what we need to do? We need to start tee teeing in the potty every time!!" To which he'd reply: "I already did!" Clearly he didn't get it. Well, Sunday we were out of diapers by accident and I just left him in pjs for a while without one and voila!!! I don't know if he was just "ready" or if changing the "prize" to marshmallows was the trick. At one point he said, "I wuv marshamyows.". And boy does he. So, since Sunday we have had ONE accident. Seriously. Shocking. He has been to the potty at school, church, Chick-fil-A, work, the community center, etc. etc. AND he doesn't even have to go with me necessarily...BONUS. Ah-mazing. The Lord knew I needed that this week.

SO THANKFUL!!

Sporting the "big boys" and cowboy boots. They clearly go together.
I could have another good cry about how grown up he looks in this picture. Man, where did the time go?

I love this. I think it's hilarious.

First Day of School

2011-09-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

How did my children grow up so fast??? Today was Hudson's first day of K4 and Micah's first day of K2. Their school is an absolute gem and I can't have enough great things to say about them. They are very small and do an amazing job with the kids. I can't believe Micah is old enough to go...it was very sad for me. No one cried this morning...except THIS MOM. Yep. Call it hormones...call it whatever, but I cried. And I really felt like I could've had a good cry. They are too grown up. I want the time to slow down.

Hugging before we left. I love this picture.

Spirit fingers?? Not sure what they were going for in this one.
Don't they look so much alike? It's crazy to me.

Micah sat right down with the puzzles. He was a little unsure.

Hudson, on the other hand, was an old pro. He didn't need a thing from me. I know he's gonna love it this year.

I love this little face. He was excited. I hope he's still excited when I go pick him up : )

And then after everyone was dropped off I waited in the hall because I was certain that Micah would cry for me. Well, he sure didn't. So I cried...in the hall. Sad. I think it's partly because in the last week Micah has a) gotten a new big boy hair cut b) totally potty trained himself, and c) started school. It's a little too much for me : )

Micah's First Movie

2011-09-01T05:06:00.001-07:00

I know it's a terrible picture...it was in the movie theatre, taken with a phone. I love it, though. It looks old to me. We took the boys to see Cars 2 in July. It was Micah's first movie experience. They did great! Loved it.

He snugged up with me. I loved it.
Then a trip to Cracker Barrell. Yum.

My 29th Birthday

2011-08-31T04:56:00.000-07:00

My friends were so sweet to me this year for my birthday. I felt very well, probably over-celebrated. My birthday fell ON Father's day this year, and look at all the people that came to celebrate with me. It was very kind. We went to a place called HopJacks. It was wonderful and fun. Several friends also took me out for coffee a couple of days later...again, one of my absolute favorites. Thanks, everyone!

Here's the crew at HopJacks. Notice the ENORMOUS pan of cupcakes...thanks Amanda!!
It was so, so hot in there that night...sorry about that!
Thank you all for your kind gifts...It made me feel very known and loved. You really gave me many of my favorite things: a coffee mug (extra large!! yay), a new book (definitely one of my fav things), a bottle of wine (my favorite kind to be exact), and a new picture frame (love it!). I also can't forget the pedicure...yes, please. Thank you all for your friendship...You are all truly an answer to prayer.

Boots, Hats, and Prayers

2011-08-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

Sportin' daddy's hat and a kool-aid stain.
Check out the cowby & rain boots & the "cowboy" hats. We've been dressing like this a LOT lately.

These boys crack me up. They've been riding their toys & dressing in their boots and hats for several days now. I think it's hilarious. Also, they've been arguing every meal about who gets to pray. Isn't that sad? I think they argue about everything. Here are some of Hudson's recent prayers. He's a funny kid.

H: "God. Tank you sooo much for the woooonderful day. God please just give us ooonnne more woooonderful sunny day and theeeyun a rain day to water all the plants. And tank you for this food. Amen."

H: "God. Tank you for this wooonderful day. And God please help our plant that died. Please help it to grow again. And please help us remember to give it water. Amen."

L.O.L. Sad. He's devastated about our plant that died. I hate to say that I'm not quite that devastated. So sad. Micah looked at it yesterday and said we should water it...Hudson replied, "No Micah, (with the saddest face) it's too late."

New 'Do

2011-08-29T05:04:00.000-07:00

Before...sweet little baby boy.

After...looking WAY too grown up. Sad.

Matt has been dying to buzz his hair for months now. We cut Hudson's when he was about the same age. It's amazing to me how different their hair is...Micah's is so soft that it just lays down. Buzz cut and no spike for him. I think it makes his cheeks look even more scrumptious.

Thankful Thursday

2011-08-25T05:13:00.000-07:00

Prom pose, anyone?? Ignore the huge glare...I thought this picture was too funny not to share.

This Thursday I am thankful for this man. The pic was taken on our SEVENTH anniversary back in May. Wow. I can't believe it's been 7 years.

Lately he has been taking up a LOT of my slack...this preggo woman has been sick sick sick at night. So, he has bathed our children and put them to bed almost every night...with no complaints. I am so thankful for him. He is kind, generous, and serving.

Children up at the CRACK of dawn =

2011-08-23T05:02:00.000-07:00

Chick-fil-A in my near future. Seriously. Why, oh why must my children rise with the sun? I mean, the sun is rising before 6 a.m. Am I awake at that time? Yes. Do I want to be interracting with my children at that time? No. A resounding no. It usually does not work well for us to begin our interraction with each other this early...I see a whiney day in my future. And a whiney day calls for Chick-Fil-A...whaa whaa.

In honor of the chick a lay, I thought I should post our Cow Appreciation Day pics. I love Cow Appreciation Day: dress like a cow and receive a free combo meal. That's right. Awesome.

The kids and their friends. Boat load of little cows.
Ya think he's happy??

I could eat him up. Too stinkin' cute.

Cheese...

He's looking so grown up these days.

HOW is Mr. Spivey not in this pic??? How in the world did I let him escape the photo op of him in his hot cow attire? Sigh. So sad. If you do need to see a pic of him (to prove he participated with a good attitude), we did make the website. That's right. Sure did.

So, if any of you wanna join me. You'll know where to find me.

Who Knew??

2011-08-18T15:17:00.000-07:00

Who knew there was a splash pad in Mobile??? I had heard a looooong time ago that there was and I searched and searched for it to no avail. Well, last week LaJuan found it. Hooray!!! Soo exciting. We took the kids today and they loved it. It was H.O.T. for the mammas, though. I think that a cloudy day will be a better choice for this activity, but all in all the boys had an awesome time. So, we will be back!

Please Pray

2011-08-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

Remember me telling you a while back that Matt is changing jobs this year? Well, school has begun this week and it is off to a rough start. We knew it wouldn't be easy, but it is evident that it's gonna be really hard. The above pic is of a few girls that committed to a Bible Study with me in the month of July. It was amazing. God is at work, and we know without any doubts that He has called Matt to that middle school. Would you pray with us? Pray that God's presence would surround Matt as he teaches...as he steps out of his comfort zone? Would you pray that hearts would be moved by the Gospel? Would you pray specifically that today some of the kids in his class will come to our Bible Club at the Community center? Would you pray that they would see a difference in the way Matt relates to them? That God would receive glory and that they would see Jesus? I know with everything in me that the Gospel changes everything. It changed me. It changed Matt. It changes lives and changes communities. Pray with us, please, that the Gospel would rule in his classroom and that there would be seventh graders that give their lives over to Jesus...and that generations would be changed. I believe it can happen. And you can also pray for these girls (many of whom go to that school), that the Gospel that they heard this summer would take root in their hearts. I love those girls.

I am Wishing For...

2011-08-15T16:44:00.000-07:00

Fall Weather

The pukey phase of pregnancy to be finished

A nice, cool run

Dinner to taste good again

Smelly things to go away

And that's all for now, I think. I'll try to have something a little more interesting tomorrow. Today, this is where I'm at.

This is how I feel

2011-08-12T15:01:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those days.

Thankful Thursday...You'll wanna read this one.

2011-08-11T10:33:00.000-07:00

This Thursday I am thankful for......another little bambino due to arrive in March. Yep, you heard me. I'm preggo. And sick. And tired. And sick. And growing. Did I mention sick? I'm very excited and very thankful to the Lord for one of His blessings. I can't imagine my life without little (0r not so little) Hudson and Micah. I'm looking forward to seeing what God has in store for our family. Soooooo....can I blame my preggo hormones for not totally following through with my 30 days of blogging?? I hope so. Still planning to continue : )

And can I say to you friends that earnestly long for a baby that I am praying for you? I have been reminded so often of you by the Lord and I am praying. Praying that God fulfills your hearts desires and gives you the blessing of a baby. Don't feel forgotten. The Lord hears and He is reminding His children to pray for you.

I feel like posts are better with pictures, so this pic is totally unrelated : ) Hudson was drinking his gatorade and said, "Daddy, did you know that this drink washes your mouth off?" Ummm...I don't think it does, buddy. Love him.

Waterville

2011-08-10T05:58:00.000-07:00

Nice family pic. Right.

Here are all the kiddos...the Steedleys went with us. Not sure what Hudson is doing.
Hudson and Ruby. They were two peas in a pod all day.

Micah and daddy.

I love this pic of Hudson. He's such a busy bee.

They loved this thing.

Another attempt at a family pic.

And this is the ride home. We wore them out!

All in all, Waterville was very fun. A big thanks to Mary Frances for giving us free passes! The boys loved it. I couldn't believe that if you're over 42'' tall you are considered an adult. Which means you a) pay the adult price, but b) can ride EVERYTHING. Whaat? That meant that Hudson could ride all the big rides. I was shocked that he went down all the huge slides. Shocking. Also shocked that he rode the rollercoaster. Sad. He's growing up way too fast.

Little Photographer

2011-08-08T05:10:00.001-07:00

Micah posed and Hudson took the picture. Hilarious. Maybe this'll be good for me. Maybe he'll document our lives for us : )

Funniest Quote of the Day

2011-08-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

We took the boys to Waterville today. Super fun. I'll give a whole post on that tomorrow, but for today, I'll leave you will the funniest quote from the funniest little boy ever. He was a trooper and did EVERY slide/ride at the park. I was amazed. In this pic Micah is holding his ears because he's afraid of the sound of the rollercoaster. Sweet boy.

M: "Hudson, did you have fun on the rollercoaster?"
H: "Yeah. It was makin me scary though. Cause it went sooooooo fast.......and it didn't have a driver."

Bahaha. I love that. He didn't understand why the rollercoaster didn't have a driver. But it totally made sense to him that nobody was up there to put the brakes on. I love this kid.

Living Water

2011-08-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

Do you ever hear someone speak so rightly about God that it resonates with your soul? This interview did that for me. The two pastors are David Platt (the pastor from Birmingham that I told you about) and John Piper. Amazing interview. I am shocked at how young Platt is.

It's such a great reminder...makes me think about what the Lord could do with my life. I could live a middle-class American lifestyle and I could be the soccer mom and spend all of my days dreaming about how to re-decorate my house. I PRAY that I do not only spend my life on these things. I pray that at the end of my life I will have invested it in lives for eternity. I so much want to live my life in a way that shows my treasure is in heaven and not here on earth. I want people to look at the way I live and know that I believe in an eternity with my Lord...I don't want them to think that this is it. It is so hard to live like this is not the end...our culture screams at us to milk our lives for everything they are worth and look for every comfort imaginable because this is the end. I want my life to look different. Lord, give me the strength for it to be different.

So take a look at the interview if you're interested. These men love the Word of God. It's inspiring and challenging.

http://www.desiringgod.org/blog/posts/john-piper-interviews-david-platt

Summer Reading

2011-08-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

This was an awesome summer for reading...I've really tried to read more because it restores me. Here are some of my pics in no particular order:

This book is by Kathryn Stockett and is a must read. I highly recommend it. It is eye-opening, set in the 1960s Mississippi, and forces us to face the reality of what happened then and is still happening today. Pick it up. You won't be able to put it down.
I know, random, right? Well, I am not ashamed. I read Shania Twain's autobiography...let me explain why. I saw her on the Today Show and she was saying that she wrote the book in an attempt to move past the grief over the loss of her marriage. She said that as she stepped back she realized that her life was not defined by that one moment. I respect her for that. And I am struggling to write out my own story- a different one-but a story nonetheless. So, for me, it was a great read. She is brutally honest about her past, her family's struggles with extreme poverty, her fame, and the loss of her marriage. It was great for me to see her write from a very honest perspective...SO...if you are interested, read it. It was a good read for me.

This is an ah-mazing book. It is written by a pastor from Birmingham, AL and he basically is talking about the church and the 'americanized' dream we have created for the church. He is talking about what it would look like to live 'Radical' lives for Christ. It is challenging and thought provoking. I loved it.

This one is a book that I bit off in little chunks. It is very full and very thought/heart provoking. Its premise is about the 'counterfeit gods' or idols of our heart. Wow. Each one I thought wouldn't be about me and they all managed to touch a piece of my heart. And you can't beat a Tim Keller book.

This is my last read for the summer. I am still reading, but I am really enjoying it so far. She also writes from an honest place and it is about living a life of thankfulness. I know I need that.

So, there you go! What have you been reading? I soooo love to read new books. There were a few on my list that I didn't get to. I am a part of a book club and we re-convene in the fall, so any ideas of books we should read?

Needs 'Watuh'

2011-07-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

Here's how the conversation went tonight as we were coming in the front door:
Micah: "Need 'watuh' (water)". Pointing to the plant by the front door.
Hudson: "No, Micah. It doesn't need water 'til it looks like this:

Bahah. Dang. Guess I'm setting a bad example in the plant watering department.

'Fweet Boy'

2011-07-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

We kept a friend's little girl a couple of months ago...she was sooo sweet. Barely made a peep. Micah-doo loved her...he looked at her, held her face and said, "Hey, fweet boy...". I think that's hilarious. We don't know about anything but boys at our house, so Micah didn't know anything else to say that would be endearing...too funny.

I love this Man

2011-07-29T18:20:00.000-07:00

Matt painted this picture a few months ago for a friend of ours and I think it's so awesome. It was the first time he had painted with only black/white...I love it. I love this man. You would never believe he has an artistic side unless you really know him. He just took a new job at a middle school here. He resigned from his coaching position and pursued a job in a community that he felt the Lord was calling him to. His decision wasn't motivated by money or status...it was purely based on where he thought he could have the greatest impact. I admire him for that and I'm excited to see what the Lord has in store for our family as we build relationships in that community.

This Little Man

2011-07-28T15:08:00.003-07:00

hasn't gotten enough face time lately...I need to give you an update on him. He turned two way back in April and we had a party celebrating him at my mom's house over Easter weekend. I love this little man. He is sooooooo sweet. He calls for ME every morning. I love it. He's a snuggler and would still be content to sit on my hip. I let him most of the time. He is totally enthralled by his "bubba" and follows him around almost all day. He's talking up a storm and expects us to totally understand everything he says. I love, love, love this little man. He is built so differently from Hudson...it really cracks me up. Hudson is a skinny minny and Micah is all butt and thighs...it's so cute. They are very different in personality also. Micah is a very laid back child. He is mostly content, but he knows how to fight with the best of them for what he wants sometimes.

30 Days of Blogging

2011-07-27T05:46:00.000-07:00

Whaaaat? Yes, I am going to attempt 30 days of blogging! Why, you ask? Umm, because I can't get my stuff together and put the things on here that I want to remember. I'm overwhelmed by the entire summer's worth of material that I have not documented for my family. Soooo, here goes to 30 days of catching up, I mean, blogging. I know you are all super excited to hear from me so often : ) And, why you ask, would I start blogging for 30 days on the 27th of the month? That's the way I roll. Random like that.

This pic typifies our summer....the boys are LOVING having daddy home. Who am I kidding? We are ALL loving having daddy home. I'm afraid the little men are gonna have a harsh reality in a couple of weeks...they will be devastated. We're all trying not to think about it : ) Well, I'm not gonna waste all my words on the first day! So, we'll see you tomorrow.

Sweet Hudson

2011-07-06T08:52:00.001-07:00

There have been some really sweet conversations with Hudson lately that I just had to post! First off, here is how the conversation went last night while I was giving him and Micah a bath:

Me: "Hudson, do you remember any of those memory verses we asked God to write on your heart? It's been a long time since we talked about those."

H: "I don't know. Its been a weealy long time. I member em though." (We proceed to review his verses)

H: "You know how I can member those?"

Me: "How?"

H: "Wull, if you want God to be in yur heart, you just ask Him to come into yur heart...and then He weeul (will)."

M: "That's right."

H: "And theeun (then), when you don't want Him to be in yur heart anymore, somebody else asks Him to be in theyur heart. (Smiling really big...)...and He'll go be in theyur heart."

M: "Well, actually Hudson, God can be in lots of people's hearts at the same time."

H: (thinking really hard about this one) "How?"

M: "That's just one of those things that we can't really understand about God...but He does. He can be in my heart and daddy's heart, and your heart & Micah's heart all at the same time."

H: (deep in thought again) "Maybe cuz He's so powerful!"

M: "Yeah."

H: "Hey, listen to this siren sound I can make."

I think this is so Hilarious!!! The fact that he thought God being in your heart was totally literal, and therefore God could clearly only be in one heart at a time...and so bounced around. It was a priceless conversation. It was also priceless how it ended just as quickly as he started...one minute we're talking about God in our heart and the next we're making siren noises with our mouth. He's a funny little kid.

A few weeks ago I heard Micah and Hudson talking in the other room. This is how it went:

Me: "Boys, put your shoes on, it's time to take Hudson to school."

Micah: "Aaaaawwwwww."

H: "Micah, I've gotta go to school. (pauses) Cause I gotta pay our money."

Me: "What?"

H: "I told Micah, I've gotta go to school so I can pay our money. (I'm still looking confused)...Like daddy."

Hahaha....he was just telling Micah the same thing he thought Matt tells him...except Matt goes to school to get paid...not to pay his money. Lol. Hudson loves his daddy and wants to be just like him. Hilarious. Little worker.

This is my life...

2011-05-13T13:01:00.000-07:00

So...I'm going crazy. No, really. There are many things that I am dying to blog about to preserve for my family, but lately I can't seem to get it all done. Which leads me to my story...this is what happened to me today. I think it is a good indicator of where I am in life : )

Today I went to meet my friend Annie at Chick-fil-A for lunch. Fun times. I love lunch play dates with friends. When we get there both kids head to the play area with Annie's kids while I order our lunch. I go through my normal mommy routine...I order, get drinks, straws, placemats, high-chair, sauce, napkins, etc. etc. etc. I head to the table with the high chair and placemats...it helps preserve my sanity to set everything up for my children before they ever reach the table. It's better that way. Then I cut through all the whining because I'm not cutting the chicken fast enough...you moms totally know what I'm talking about. So, anyways, as I'm doing all of this I realize- I ONLY ORDERED LUNCH FOR ONE OF MY CHILDREN. What? I. Am. Losing. My. Mind. It's not like it was an oversight...no, for a moment I forgot that Hudson was with me. I'm telling you, I'm going crazy.

So, if I haven't called you back, owe you a meal, money, or a dish...don't hate me. Blame my temporary (I hope) insanity.

The Resurrection Changes Everything

2011-04-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

My heart overflows today with gratitude to Christ for the Cross. We were blessed this morning to be in a church that truly worshipped Jesus on this day...it was wonderful!! The pastor talked about how the resurrection changes us. Amen!!! I was just talking to Matt on the ride to my mom's about how the resurrection of Jesus is the most glorious part of our faith. Without it, there would be no hope. It was so sweet to worship with other believers and CELEBRATE what Christ has done.

Again, I was so conflicted about how to truly celebrate this with my children. I don't think that I am opposed to "pretending" with them about things, I just think I'm opposed to pretending on the two most glorious days that we celebrate in the Christian faith. I so want my boys to think of Jesus at Christmas and Easter...I want it to be all the more exciting because we have something real to celebrate. Sure, they get baskets and we hunt eggs, but I so badly want them to be able to reflect on how we celebrate one day and know that their mom and dad love Jesus. I pray that they do.

Last year I blogged about a song that I love at Easter, and this year I want to write the words to another that brings joy to my soul.

"Thank you for the CROSS Lord. Thank you for the nail-pierced hands.

Bearing all my sin and shame, in love you came, and gave amazing grace.

Thank you for this love, Lord. Thank you for the price you paid.

Washed me in your cleansing flow, now all I know is your forgiveness and embrace!"

"Worthy is the Lamb!! Seated on the Throne.

Crown Him now with many crowns! He reigns victorious!!

High and lifted up, Jesus Son of God.

The darling of Heaven crucified...Worthy is the Lamb!

Worthy is the Lamb!"

Tonsils Are Gone!

2011-03-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Drinking a milkshake and playing the "Memory Game"
Watching a movie!

Listening and dancing to songs with GaGa and Nonna.

The tonsils are gone! Hudson had his tonsils out yesterday, and the Lord has blessed every aspect of the surgery. It was really something that I was very anxious about...Hudson is an extremely anxious kid when it comes to doctors. I can't imagine where he gets that from : ) He likes to know the plan!

We decided to read him the book about having his tonsils out the night before and I was so afraid that I had made a bad choice because immediately the questions started flowing. The next morning, he was really calm on the way to the surgery center and even watched a movie. The doctor gave him some medicine to keep him calm before they took him back, and I am SO THANFUL! It worked so so well...If I could've had a dose of that we would have been smooth sailing : )

The surgery went great, and Dr. Swain took his tonsils out and put both tubes back in his ears...we are really hoping that it solves his problems. Hudson has done tremendous since the surgery, and I have been so proud of him. He has not complained at all- I really think his issue is more about fear than pain, so I am thankful for the medicine before surgery.

Here are a few specific answers to prayer:

The medicine calmed him for surgery. He didn't cry when he left us ( and I didn't cry either).
The surgery went well and Dr. Swain had lots of wisdom about what to do.
Hudson did not vomit after the anesthesia.
His pain has been managed very well and he has continued to sleep.

On a funny note, the calming medicine made Hudson act hilarious! At one point the nurse asked him how old he is, and when he held up 4 fingers, it must've looked really funny to him. He then started to swat at the non-existent things floating in the air. We couldn't help but laugh at him...It was good stuff apparently :) So, thank you all for your prayers! Please continue...they saw that he had bronchitis when they were doing the surgery (which they wouldn't have done if they had known before). So, pray that there are no complications with that, and pray that his pain will contnue to be managed during his recovery. The Lord has been so faithful!

Little Micah

2011-02-26T11:49:00.001-08:00

Look how artistic he is! Yep...he used his marker ON MY WALL...and I took a picture. Spoiled.

Second time he's fallen asleep in his high chair. This time with a piece of biscuit in his mouth! This is heaven for this little man. Brother loves to eat.

I mean, couldn't you just eat him?

Micah doo is the sweetest, cuddliest little man ever. I have totally spoiled him rotten. I definitely have given it my best shot : ) What will I do when my baby is the LAST baby? Man, they'll be spoiled. Micah has really come into his own personality lately. He loves to be sitting on someone's hip...he definitely is a snuggler. He loves to be on a schedule...he is like clockwork when it comes to nap time and bed time. For this I am thankful. He loves Hudson so much and screams "bubba" all the time. I love it. Here are some of his favorite words/phrases:

M: "Micah, what do you want for breakfast?"

M: "Hut moo" (Oatmeal)

M: "Moooooooommmmmmeeeeeeeee!"

M: "What, Micah?"

M: "Ball."

Not kidding. This is the way the conversation goes atleast ten times a day.

M: "Aaaaaaaah.....Go!" Then he begins running through the house. Daily.

M: "Weeed. Booo." (Read book.)

M: "Soooh, mommy. Pea." (Juice, mommy. Please.)

M: "Mar mar". He says this when he wants to sing the song, "I may never march in the infantry...etc." Sweet.

Hudson Quotes

2011-02-26T11:21:00.000-08:00

Here are the boys with their cousins, Hunter and Reagan. Hudson is obsessed with them...he thinks they are the absolute greatest.

A little time with mommy.

This is at Hudson's school. They had a firetruck come by and that was awesome.

Hudson is such a fun kid. He talks ALL THE TIME...seriously. His mind is always turning, so we are never lacking for conversation. Here are a few new quotes:

M: "Hudson, what do you want for lunch?"

H: "It matters to you."

I think this is so funny. Instead of saying, "Whatever you want.", or "You choose.", he says, "It matters to you.". It's cute.

H: "Why you tee tee like that?"

M: "Cause that's the way girls tee tee."

H: "I tee tee standing up."

H: "Where does water go when you take a bath?"

This was a loooong conversation. He is not easily appeased when he doesn't understand something.

H: (Holding his toy gun.) "Who wants to get shoot?"

M: "Hudson, we don't pretend to shoot people."

H: "I know, mommy. But, it's my job."

H: "Gracie didn't feel good at school."

M: "Really? What was wrong?"

H: "Wuuul, her didn't feel good and her heart was beepin'."

H: "Mommy, this is spicy."

M: "You don't have to eat it."

H: "Yeah, cause it's got hot burn in it."

Bahahah! He's heard Matt say one too many times that something has given him "heart burn".

H: "Micah. Is that good manners?"

H: "Dadddy!!!!! My big boys (underwear) have a hole in them!"

He was soooo excited about this! The fact that he found a NEW way to go tee tee without pulling the big boys down was like the most exciting thing that's ever happened. Several times I saw him in the bathroom squirming because he needed to go so bad, but he REFUSED to pull the big boys down. Hilarious.

My BABY is FOUR

2011-01-05T12:18:00.000-08:00

What?? How in the world am I old enough to have a 4 yr old? I really can't believe it. I feel like 4 is so much older than 3. Here are a few pics from Hudson's birthday party. He requested a party at "Pete's Party Castle", and so that is where we partied. It was really a lot of fun and I appreciate all of you coming and celebrating with us...even though it was in the middle of the SEC Championship game :-) My bad.

Here's the Birthday boy hugging "Pete". This blows my mind. He's usually scared out of his mind, but not on this day. Maybe it's because he's 4 now.

I LOVE this picture. He was so "assited" (aka excited) about his party.

Hudson and Annalee riding the train...his favorite part at Pete's.

Isn't this the cutest little table set up? I loved it.

And here's Hudson's train table that he got for his birthday. It's perfect. It fits underneath the bed...a huge plus for storage!

Hudson is such a joy. He changed our lives forever four years ago and I can not imagine life without him. Matt and I can't remember what we did before kids : ). Some of Hudson's strengths are: he's a thinker...sometimes this drives me totally insane. He needs to know the plan and asks a million questions a day, but really I think it will be a strength. He will definitely think for his family and make decisions based on details...his future wife will probably have a love/hate relationship with that characteristic. He's also very artistic. He loves to write and draw...I hope he got his daddy's gift. And here are a few recent Hudson convos:

Setting: It was raining this morning and we hear thunder.

Micah: (Boohoo crying because he's scared)

Hudson: "It's ok, Micah. It's just 'tunther' (thunder). Nothing to be scared of." (then pauses to think)

"But if it's real loud...then I will be scared."

Setting: On our way home after traveling for Christmas to see our families. We were literally 10 minutes from home after 2 hrs and 15 minutes in the van.

Hudson: "I'm hotttttttttt!!" (in the whiniest voice you've ever heard)

M: "Ok. We'll roll your window down for a minute." We roll down the window and he loses his mind for a few minutes telling us he's still hot etc. etc. etc.

M: "Hudson! You are fine. Not another word until we get home. We are almost there."

H: Silent for a couple of minutes. "I love ya'll."

M: "Aw, that's sweet buddy. We love you too."

H: "Yeah, cause we trust God."

M: "We do. What made you think of that? Is that what you talked about in church this morning?

H: "No. When you trust God, you obey."

M: Sensing a seriously teachable moment here : ) "That's right. And who does God tell you to obey?"

H: "Mommy and daddy."

M: "Yes. And what did your mommy and daddy tell you to do?"

H: "And He's willie (really) powerful!!!!!!"

M: "He is."

H: "Yeah, and He can do ANYTHING!"

M: "Sure."

H: "And when I'm hot....I can tell Him. And he can fix it."

M: "Well, that's true. He can fix it. And He wants you to tell Him whatever you want to tell Him." Totally laughing on the inside now because I see where he was going with this.

H: "Yeah and He telled (told) me you shouldn't tell me to be quiet."

M: "Oh really? I didn't hear Him say that."

H: "I did. I 'heeyurd' (heard) Him. He said that."

Bahahah! I guess all the while, he was trying to teach ME. Though I don't necessarily love the way this convo ended up, I DO love the fact that his need was to cool off and he thought God could meet that need. Amen and Amen! He CAN meet that need...and I believe He is totally interested in that need. We really struggled to make Christmas all about Jesus...and I'll post more on this later, but we decided not to emphasize Santa in hopes that Jesus would be emphasized more. So, though I don't totally love the ending of this conversation, I LOVE the fact that Hudson thought about talking to God about His need and not Santa. I counted it as sweet fruit from the Lord and hope we have many more similar conversations.

More posts to come soon...included Christmas, Micah's update, and some resolutions for 2011. Man, I have a lot of catching up to do.

Thankful

2010-11-29T12:43:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things I am thankful for this season:

I am thankful that the LORD of the Universe decided to make me His child. I am overcome all the more with the magnitude of what He did for me. I am praying that it will become more and more real in my heart over this Holiday Season, and that it won't be all about gifts and decorations (though I love gifts and decorations), but that it will be about a long anticipated Savior. Oh how I pray that my children will see JESUS by the way we celebrate His birth.

I am thankful that God's Word is living and pierces my soul.

I am thankful for my family. Especially for those three sweet men in my life: Matt, Hudson, and Micah. Matt is an amazing, selfless husband and dad, and I do not say enough about how thankful I am for him. He has been one of the Lord's sweetest gifts to me. Hudson is hilarious and quirky and very loving. I can't wait to see the man that he becomes. Micah is snuggly and sweet. I am so in love with all of them!

It is so great to step back from the day-to-day of life and be thankful. I love to be around genuine, thankful people. It is contagious. I want to be one of those people.

With each year, I find it more and more difficult to point my children toward Christ during the holidays. I guess it's just that before I had children, I didn't have anyone to be responsible for other than myself. I want to get it right, you know? So, I'd welcome any comments about holiday traditions that you use in your home to point your children to the Saviour. I'm all ears : )

We've Been...

2010-11-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

Very busy...and having lots of fun in the month of October : ) Here is a rundown of what we've been up to:

Growing our muscles.

This takes hard work. It's keeping us very busy.

Carving pumpkins.

And making pumpkin bread, and pumpkin soup...and eating all the pumpkin bread and soup.

Going to the pumpkin patch.

The boys wanted to "take daddy" to the pumpkin patch.

Attempting a "Fall Family Photo"...or should I say, Fall Family Foto.

This is as good as it gets.

Going on a school field trip.

This is a typical Hudson look...and I NEVER capture it. I love this face!

I will post the actual Halloween pics soon. Basketball season has started, so life has gotten a bit crazy for us lately. It is so good to look back through these pics and remind myself of what a blessing it is to be able to be home with these two little men. I love, love, love being with them. They are so different and fun and definitely keep me busy daily. It's easy to just "survive" during these long days, but it is great today to be reminded to not just "survive", but to enjoy. I really wouldn't have it any other way. We are blessed.

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

I have seen several friends blog on Thursdays about a few things that they are thankful for. Don't think that I'll have the discipline to do this every week...we can all see that I lack in the blogging department. But, I do want to do it this Thursday. Yesterday we found out that our van needs a new transmission...yikes! Not a good day. Do you ever find it hard to be thankful when things aren't going as planned? I do. And I really do want to cultivate an attitude of trust that comes from deep within my heart. Something I'm convinced of. So, today I want to jot down a few things that I am thankful for. We have van issues, but there is MUCH to thank God for. Here are a few things I am thankful for today:

My relationship with God. And my Church family...I have been so nourished in this church. Matt and I have been a part of this family for six and a half years. And it is truly a family away from our own family.
My family. I have a husband who is very gracious and loving, and two boys that are the sweetest ever...and I get to be with them every day. For that, I am very thankful.
A new job. The Lord gave me a new part-time job, which I love. I can work from my home, mostly when my boys are napping. I'm so thankful. It was an answer to prayer.
My van. This is silly, I know. But I think that today is a great day to remind myself that the Lord gave us that van...it was a blessing from Him. And today I am remembering that the same God that gave us that van is providing for the new transmission.

I hope you are all having an awesome day...and I pray that we can all take time to thank God, the giver of all things good, for the many blessings in our lives!

He's Growing Up

2010-10-09T07:44:00.001-07:00

He loves to build things. He loves to read. This is at the gym and there are a host of different toys. He chose to read.

Hudson is growing up so fast. It makes my heart swell and makes me a little teary all at the same time. I looked at him the other night and I just couldn't believe that my child will be FOUR in December. That blows my mind. I was telling another parent that I am quite confident that we are messing him up in some way but I just don't know how.

Here are a few more Hudosn convos.

H: "Mommy, are these new pants?"

M: "Yeah, bud."

H: "Oooh, these are cozy." This was about new windpants...he thought the lining was great!

H: "No, Micah! You're gonna wip it!"

M: "Wip it?"

H: "No! Wiiiip it."

M: "Wip it?"

H: "Wwwwiiiiiipppp it."

M: "Wip it?"

H: "No, mommy. He's gonna tear it."

Bahahaha! I love that he says it incorrectly but he tried to correct me. It was really funny...I'm probably a mean mom for having this conversation but it was hilarious.

H: "Mommy, is this a good one to write on my heart?"

This melted my heart! We are working on memorizing scripture and Hudson took his little cards and picked one out and asked me if it was a good one to write on his heart. LOVE IT! Hudson, when you read this in years to come, I pray that you will have a deep love for God's Word and that He will have written many, many verses on your heart!

Here are a few words that Hudson says incorrectly that I love and want to remember:

"hanitizer"- hand sanitizer
"check mix"- chex mix
"lellow"- yellow
"exersketch"- etch-a-sketch

Micah's New Words

2010-10-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

He gave me this:

So I gave him that! Don't judge me. Seriously, though, he saw the bottle on the counter and was devastated that I wouldn't give it to him. So, there you go.

Things were a little too quiet and this is where I found him.

Uh-oh, you caught me.

Micah has really started talking lately. We were thinking that he wasn't going to be nearly as verbal as Hudson (and were blaming ourselves for not reading to him as much as Hudson), but he has definitely started. He is such a sweet child. No matter where I am, people always comment on what a happy baby he is, and they are right. He is totally content to be sitting on my hip :) I can see the differences already in him and Hudson and it is so funny. I think Micah's love language is going to be touch...he always wants to give people a hug and he LOVES to be held. I have to remind myself when he is tugging at my leg and wanting me to hold him that I prayed for him to be snuggly....and I got what I prayed for.

Here are some of his favorite words as of late:

mommmmeeeee: he says this atleast a hundred times a day....usually just to get my attention
uh-oh
naw-naw: also known as " no no". He started bossing the dogs first, but now he says this to his bubba too. It's funny to me that he points his finger when he does it because I don't do that.
bootball: or "football". Teaching him early.
buh-ball: any kind of ball has this name. And he starts off the day with this word.
nigh-nigh: "night night"
ball
bye-bye: he waves his hand and goes to the door. He thinks it is the absolute best when we play along and tell him to be careful.
ooooh: I usually say, "One...", to which he replies "oooh" (two). He's a genius : )
moooe: "more". The boy loves to eat, so he says this often.
ssshhhh: he puts his finger over his lips. I think it's the cutest ever.
eeeeeeee: "cheese" He's never had his picture taken : )

Boys...

2010-09-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Like to play at the park and get so dirty that mommy has to give them a bath mid-day. Dirty mouth? Clean it up.

Like to make "piles" everywhere. This kind of makes me crazy...I am trying to remain calm :-)

Like to "tow" their sound machine around the house. I told Hudson to take it back and he said, "But, mommy! I'm towin' it behind my truck." (And you can imagine that it was in the country-est little voice ever.)

Ok, then. Tow away.

Like to climb on everything. I mean everything.

Like to take their diaper off to get a good nap. Isn't this hilarious? I have no idea why he did this. Matt added the index card so I could blog with a PG pic. I guess he was feeling a bit contained.

Lately...(Part 1)

2010-09-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

Lately, we have been very busy- but in a fun kind of busy way. It has been way too long since I updated. Really, it's all your fault. If all of you would quit having such interesting things to say, I'd stop reading your blogs and update my own :-) Seriously, though, I love to stalk a blog or two...

Almost daily something happens that I think I need to blog about- I guess that's what happens when you have two very active little boys. They say and do the cutest things (to me).

We took the boys to the zoo and it was a super fun family trip. Gaga, Nonna, and Pop all made the trip with us. The boys were very excited. Here is the whole fam...don't we look excited?! Also, I totally get that none of the following zoo pics will actually include any animals. We do have those, but really the trip was about the boys.

Micah was enthralled with the birds.

Hudson love, love, loved the zoo. He walked everywhere with his map and said, "Next on my list....".
Hudson and daddy went to feed the giraffe...I really can't beleive Hudson did this. He's such a little scaredy...look at him trying to help the giraffe with his own tongue. Hilarious!

Hudson has been learning to ride his bike without training wheels. He thinks this is the absolute greatest. Daddy gets a great workout :-)

Who looks like they're doing all the work? Yep, daddy. Hudson took time to smile for the camera!

Cow Appreciation Day

2010-08-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

Isn't this the greatest? Do it, Matt Spivey. Lookin' hot in your cow attire.

I could eat him. Those cheeks are so kissable.

Same on this one. So stinkin cute.

We HEART Chick-fil-A. You heard me. HEART it. Here are a few reasons why:

First off, they have "Cow Appreciation Day"!! On Cow Appreciation Day, just wear your favorite cow costume and receive your very own free combo meal. Whaaaat? Free combo? We'll be there. Every time. Can I just say that I love Matt Spivey all the more for not only going along with this but for actively participating? That's a great man. And this was an all out fun filled day.

The children's play area is safe, inside, and usually clean.
Chick-fil-A gives complimentary placemats and cheerios. This makes the mom in me smile. Don't have to worry about the germy table or the hungry child waiting on the food. Two problems solved : )

We love it for the new Chick-fil-a sauce. We could sip that stuff through a straw. Seriously, what do they put in that heaven on earth?

At Chick-fil-a you can trade your kids meal toy for an ice cream. BONUS.

Worship music is playing over the loud speaker. Love it.

Need I go on? We love this place. Just last night we went in to eat dinner and let the boys play and noticed that our Cow Appreciation Day pictures are on their bulletin board. Hilarious. Priceless. Wonder if they are on the bulletin board of the other store in town. Busted.

Date with my little man

2010-08-11T11:19:00.001-07:00

I mean, is he carved out of my behind or what?

Hudson and I had a "date" this summer. We went to the movies to see Toy Story 3. It really was soooo cute!!! Hudson L O V E D it. It's crazy to me that he's old enough to enjoy this sort of thing. He was still and quiet for the entire movie- and he sat in my lap...which I loved. It was so good to get away with Hudson to just spend some one-on-one time. We enjoyed popcorn, his favorite, and a real coke, also his favorite. He is growing up too fast.

My New Sister!! Mark is Engaged!!

2010-07-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

Sweet. The newly engaged couple.

Brothers.

Matt is gaining a sister : )

And so am I!!

Family. Love it. Love them.

Yaaaaaay!! I am so excited to announce that I am going to have a SISTER! Mark proposed to Kristina tonight and it was absolutely perfect. Perfect. We are so happy for them. I have been weepy all day just thinking about it. Mark has been like a brother to me long before the Lord made him my brother-in-law...and now I feel the exact same way about Kristina. The Lord has grown our friendship so much and I truly see her as a sister. It is so sweet.

Matt and I have prayed for years for Mark's future spouse...and Kristina is an answer to prayer. She loves him so well. She fits with our family...we love her. Our children love her. And she loves Jesus. We could not have written a sweeter story if we had been able to do it ourselves...how great of the Lord to do it!! We pray that they have many, many wonderful years of marriage. Congratulations Mark and Kristina!! We pray that God will richly bless your marriage!!

Six Years Together

2010-07-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to us! In May (I'm aware that is a very long time ago) we celebrated our 6 year wedding anniversary. Can you believe that? The time has definitely gone by so fast...makes me feel a little old. Matt and I went to the beach together for THREE NIGHTS! Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat? It was ah mazing. When I was talking about the upcoming trip with a friend, she said, "Morgan! If ya'll want to go get ice cream at midnight, you CAN!". That's right! Can you tell that she has kids as well? It's the little things in life :) Really, though...when I was packing for the trip I had butterflies in my tummy. It felt like a date...and I am so thankful for that feeling. I think that is rare after 6 years to get that "butterfly in your tummy" feeling. It doesn't happen every day :), but it happened that day and I am thankful to God for growing our marriage.

It was a great weekend. While we were there we layed on the beach, by the pool, took naps, went out on dates, went to the movies (which we rarely do), browsed shops, read books, went for a run, etc. It was so relaxing and restoring. New family tradition, anyone?

I am thankful for Matt Spivey. He is an unselfish dad. I did not know that when I married him...it was a bonus. I hope that my sons will be dads like him. He is a gracious husband. He never gets mad if...um, when the house isn't clean : ) He also always went to pick up cookie dough for me when I was pregnant. Even though I had already gained a good 40 lbs. I appreciate that. He also always forgives when I ask...I learn so much from him in this respect. I wish I could be more like that...and I pray that many, many years of marriage to him will make me more like that. So, horray for anniversaries!! These have been wonderful six years.

Micah Update

2010-07-10T08:13:00.001-07:00

Micah has been working very hard to not be outdone by his brother. He is growing up so fast! He and Hudson play so hard together...I am really gonna have my hands full :)

Here he is all worn out!!! Isn't that just the cutest? He couldn't finish his sandwich before falling asleep in the chair. He's milking it here! How do you convince your big brother to push you in his dumptruck? Not sure, but this little man's got skill. Doesn't Hudson look happy to be doing it? I had to keep telling Hudson, "Not too fast!!". Boys.

Happy Boy! We finally figured out that Micah has some sort of milk allergy. Not quite sure what he is allergic to, but now all milk products make him break out into a rash and hurt his little tummy. Since we got that under control, he has been a happy boy. He is doing MUCH better at night and at naptime. So sad that his tummy probably hurt for a while...oh, well. You live and you learn.

He is WALKING and TALKING now!! Crazy!! Micah started walking just before 13 months and hasn't turned back since. He is into everything! He just started saying a few words (he's been babbling for a long time, but he just got context).

Here are a few:

"Uh-oh"

"Da-da" (he gets context for this one but still uses it at other times, too)

"Bubba" Sweet, huh? He just said this the other day. Love it.

"Dah" This is his affirmative for anything. Want more? Dah. He also gives the single head nod with this word.

Hudson Update

2010-07-10T06:55:00.000-07:00

Hudson has been a busy little man the past couple of months! Here are some of the things he's been up to lately.

He had his last day of "school" for this year. I am so glad that we started taking him! He has loved every minute of it and I learned that he really thrives with structure (which I don't always give him). His teachers were absolutely amazing! Miss Stephanie and Miss Tracie were so wonderful with him...they were a blessing from God. They truly loved the kids in the class and it was an AWESOME first "school" experience for both Hudson and mommy. He is looking so forward to next year. He has the option to go 3 days from 9-1, but I can't give him up that many days with him just yet :) So, we are going to stick with our Tues./Thurs. schedule.

Prom pose with Tay-Tay on the last day of school! Definitely gonna make the wedding video!!

Hudson is loving dressing himself. It is hysterical! This is what we got this day: shirt, shorts, and camo rain boots! See any rain? Didn't think so. Not to mention it is about 100 degrees outside. Funny kid.

He also loves "making piles". Or that's what he tells me he's doing. This is a load of his outside toys in a neat "pile". He was so proud. I don't mind this outside, but when this happens with EVERY toy in his playroom I get a little upset.

We had a SLUMBER PARTY!! Whaaaaat? Don't freak out, they slept in separate rooms! Tay-Tay's parents went on a trip and we got to keep her for a night. It was SO MUCH FUN!! I will have to say, though, that keeping 3 kids separated at bath time when I was by myself was a STRETCH! I loved it, though. I have boys, so keeping a girl was a new fun thing to me. I washed and dried her hair...sweet.

Let the Blogging Begin

2010-07-10T06:47:00.000-07:00

Dang, how can I be so bad at this?? Here goes my marathon post. I always think I don't have enough time or I think I'll do it when the boys go down for a nap. Aaaannnd as we can all see, that NEVER happens. Too many things calling my name at nap time :) So, today I have coffee in hand and am determined to update some of this so that I will remember.

Before I forget...

2010-06-14T17:44:00.001-07:00

We have had some HI LA RI OUS conversations with Hudson today. I have lots lots lots to update...maybe I can when the boys are in bed tonight :)

H: "Daddy..." (A billion times...seriously.)
Matt: "Whaaat, Hudson?"
H: "Daddy, you need learn be patient when I'm tryin' ask you a question."

Bwahahah!!!! I couldn't help but die laughing at that. Lesson learned.

Setting the scene: Hudson just came from the bathroom.

Matt: "Hudson, tell mommy what happened."
H: "I had gas from my toot."
M: "How did that happen?"
H: "Wull (well), I tooted and I had gas. And then I pooped."

Hilarious. More to come. Promise. Soon.

Twelve Years Ago

2010-05-22T18:05:00.000-07:00

Sad post...brace yourself. Twelve years ago today, my dad passed away. It is a day that changed me. I have described my grief before as a series of snapshots. I remember everything about that day. Everything. I don't think about it every day anymore but something can take me back to that place in my mind and heart in an instant. Days like today take me back.
I have thought for years that I would write a book about grief and my story. Last year I took out all my journals through the years in an attempt to start an outline...it was too tough. So, I put them back on the shelf and hope to one day be able to do it. I really feel God leading me to put my story on paper because I do beleive that He has given me a story to share. I hope that one day I'll be able to share it in its entirety. In the meantime, I hope that you enjoy this tribute to my dad. He was a great man and he taught me many things that make me who I am. Here are a few.

He taught me to be a hard worker. I'm sure that he didn't always like his job...and it wasn't the most glamorous. He always went to work, and I remember him going in at 5 a.m. most every morning. I know now that he did that for us to have the life that we did.
He taught me to never quit. My brother and I played sports growing up...we didn't have to, but we did. He taught us that no matter how we felt, we couldn't quit mid-season. It wasn't okay to quit. I appreciate that.
He (and my mom) taught me to value family meals. We always ate dinner together as a family. It is a tradition that I have continued with my family.
He taught me to love my family. He loved his family. He would've done anything for his family. He was always at ALL of our games, practices, etc. It was a given. It is not a given for everyone. He taught me to respect my mother. He lead by example...he respected his mother.
He taught me the value in a simple life. He was content to be with us...to spend time with his family, to tend to his garden, read the paper, drink a cup of coffee, sit on the front porch.

So, here's a tribute to Mac Hodge, my daddy. You left a legacy. I love you.

A few of Micah's Favorites

2010-04-29T09:15:00.001-07:00

Eating. This is probably his absolute favorite : ) The kid eats like a man!!

His daddy...Yep, daddy is the favorite now. I can't blame him, though. Matt is not selfish- and I think that is rare. He is a wonderful dad!
Playing outside. In this pic he is in the sandbox...a gift from GaGa and Poppa Rock. It is quickly becoming one of his favorites as well!

New Hudsonisms

2010-04-29T09:04:00.001-07:00

Here are the latest convos:

H: "It was accent (accident)." I hear this one more often than I'd like!

H: "I want some to deeup (dip). Like cheeups (chips)." He wants syrup to "deeup" his pancakes in. My little country man.

H: "Hey, mommy. When I wake up and some ting is unfixed, I will fix it with my tool bench."

M: "Ok."

H: "And it will be all, all crumbled."

M: "Oh, okay."

H: "You know what crumbled means?"

M: "No, what?"

H: "It means not broken."

H: "When I grow up, I'm gonna be a race-car driver."

M: "Oh, really?"

H: "Yeah, I will go wooly wooly fast! And we can all ride...and when you drive, I will bump you."

Happy FIRST Birthday, Micah!

2010-04-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

Oh how thankful we are for this little man!! It is so true that children are a blessing from God!! Matt and I can't remember what it was like before kids...life is very full! We had an awesome party for Micah's first birthday, and time has flown by too fast! Boys are a lot of fun- there will be loads of mischief in my house and everything will probably be destroyed, but drama will be low. I'm good with that.

We are praying that Micah would grow to be a man who loves God with all his heart...praying that he grows into a man true to his name. That he does justice, loves mercy, and walks humbly with his God. Lord, make it true! (Micah 6:8)

My Redeemer Lives!!

2010-03-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

My heart has been overflowing this week thinking about the upcoming Easter celebration. I think it has been fresh this year because I have been thinking about how I can communicate the magnitude of this celebration to Hudson. I'm sad about all the fluff of the holiday- Easter bunny, eggs, chocolate, etc. Man, there's a lot of "fluff" to sift through at Christmas and Easter, and I want to make sure that my children understand why we celebrate these special days. There is a REASON to celebrate!! I remember Easter Sunday last year. I was very close to giving birth to Micah...we celebrated with our church family at Grace. One thing that sticks out in my mind is one of the songs that we sang (well, my friend Jennifer sang). Some of you know it, and some of you probably don't. The words of the song grip my heart every time and almost always bring me to tears...so, I hope that the words of this song will pierce your heart as well. If you know Him, I pray that this celebration will be extra special this year! And if you don't, I pray that these words will soften your heart and that THIS will be the year for you to know Him!!

Redeemer

Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning?

And Who told the ocean, 'You can only come this far.' ?

And Who showed the moon where to hide 'til evening?

Whose Words alone can catch a falling star?

I know my Redeemer lives!

I know my Redeemer lives.

All of creation testifies, this life within me cries.

I know my Redeemer lives!!

The very same God that spins things in orbit

runs to the weary, the worn, and the weak.

And the same gentle Hands

that hold me when I'm broken,

they conquered death and bring me victory!!

I know my Redeemer lives!

Let all creation testify! Let this life within me cry!

I know my Redeemer lives!!

He lives to take away my shame.

And He lives! Forever I'll proclaim,

that the payment for my sin was the precious live He gave.

Now He's ALIVE and there's an empty grave!!!

I know my Redeemer lives!!

I know my Redeemer lives!

All of creation testifies, this life within me cries!

I know my Redeemer Lives!!

Date Night

2010-03-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

While in New Orleans, Matt and I got to go to one of his friends' wedding. It was beautiful and a lot of fun. The timing was great that we were going to be in New Orleans for the weekend anyways. I thought I would take this opportunity to thank Matt for supporting me and for giving me the freedom to train for the marathon. I could not have done it without that freedom. He kept the kids every Saturday morning for me to do my long runs...and helped lots on Saturday afternoons when I was tired. So, thank you, Matt! You are wonderful!!

We Finished!!!

2010-03-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

I know it has been forever...no excuses, though :) We finished the marathon!!!! It was by far one of the most amazing experiences of my life. The Lord answered our prayer and gave us an absolutely beautiful day to run. It was one of our first "springlike" days and we could not stop saying how beautiful it was. I'll give you the rundown...and who knows, maybe some of you will be convinced to run one yourself : )

First of all, it was in New Orleans and it was part of the "Rock and Roll" Marathon series. That meant that EVERY mile there was a band playing! Whaaaat?? It was so cool! There were like 13,000 runners, so to say the atmosphere was awesome would be an understatement. Also, Annie and I decided to pray through the alphabet during the race (26 letters and 26 miles), so at each mile we were talking about what the Lord had put on our hearts to pray for. It was sooooooo encouraging!!! We prayed for friends, family, circumstances, contentment, our children, and the list could go on and on. It was a gorgeous day that just screamed the faithfulness of our God...and He gave us legs and endurance to run for His glory. It was one of the sweetest times in my life...His presence was very near. It was like a breath of fresh air to my heart. So at each mile we were rocking out to a band, discussing our prayer requests, and praying....and then before we knew it there was another band!! It was wonderful : ) At the end of the race they called us out by name and we were both so overcome with joy that we were able to finish that the tears flowed. I know you're not shocked : )

So there it is! I hope you are encouraged...and if you are reading this you are probably a close friend or family member...and we probably prayed for you!

Micah-Doo

2010-02-25T12:33:00.001-08:00

I could just eat him. I really could. I kiss those cheeks often. The comment I usually get is, "He sure doesn't miss many meals, does he?". But neither do we. No one in my family misses many meals :) We had his check-up today and he is following his big brother. He is 29 3/4 inches long and weighs 23 pounds. He is in the 90th percentile for both height and weight. He got such a great report and I was so excited...his breathing was great- no wheezing, and his tubes looked great. He is so much fun right now. He is into EVERYTHING...he loves digging in drawers, opening cabinets, plundering the dish washer. Those are his favorites :) I will post pictures soon of that. He is cutting his top FOUR teeth right now...poor little man. Considering that, he really has done well through it. He is very content to be sitting on my hip most of the time, and I have to say that I am pretty content to have him there :) I know that I am reaching my limit of being the favorite. It only lasted a year for Hudson and I'm sure it will be the same for him...sad. When I was walking into the doctor's office today I was sad thinking about the fact that he won't be as excited for me to hold him very much longer...I had that feeling of wanting to savor it. The feeling exiting the doctor's office was not the same!! In the office I was thinking of how in the world I will have more children. Both kids were in my lap boohooing over their "pokes". It was all I could handle. Guess it's all I have to handle for now :)

Big Boy

2010-02-25T12:02:00.001-08:00

We went today for Hudson's 3 year check-up (a bit late). The doctor confirmed that he is still big for his age. He is 39 inches tall and weighs 36 lbs. and 6 ounces. He is in the 90th percentile for height and the 75th for weight. I really thought he would have been a little lower in weight because to me he looks so long and skinny, but I guess he's still keeping up in the weight department as well. Today was also "school picture" day. Hudson is such a quirky little kid. He was scared of the man taking pictures and I had to work really hard to keep him calm...then at the doctor he had to get a "poke". Man, that was a treat. I used to think that if he would just reach the age that I could explain it to him before he had to get a shot that everything would go much more smoothly. Boy was I wrong! He's a smart kid and knew that something was up, so he kept asking me, "Am I through, mommy? Is that all?". I had changed the subject SEVERAL times to avoid the question. Finally I told him that he was going to have to get a little "poke" and that it would be all finished. BIG MISTAKE. Ten minute conversation ensues...complete with praying with him for God to help him not be scared. Man, I was exhausted. After we finished praying and talking about the fact that God is always with us, I said, "See. Isn't that great?". To which he replied, "No! It's not great!". Ok, then. On with the poke. (I'll blog next about Micah's poke...what a fun day).

We are all done now and Hudson is napping. He really is a joy...and I am so sad that he's growing up so fast. I want it to all slow down. I love his big blue eyes...I could just squeeze him.

I Love this Kid

2010-02-22T13:21:00.000-08:00

He is so grown up! Here are some of the latest Hudson funnies.

Setting: I had just taken a shower and was putting my robe on.
H: "Why you tie that?"
M: "Cause that's how it stays on."
H: "Ooh. That's pretty, mommy. You look like a princess..."
Could he melt my heart any more? Soooo sweet! I immediately went to the cabinet and gave him a piece of chocolate. Just kidding :)

H: "Happy Balentines!" (handing me a balloon, chocolate, and present)
M: "Thanks, buddy!! I loooove it!"
H: "We can share..." (with the biggest grin ever on his face)
Matt said it was hilarious when he took him to the store. The first thing he wanted to buy me was a ball. I guess he had sharing on his mind then!

Background: We call Hudson's underwear "big boys". I think it started when we called them "big boy underwear" as we were potty training him. Somehow "big boys" is what stuck.
H: (early morning) "Taylor don't have big boys."
M: "Oh, really?"
H: "Naw, he wear gwirl pannies."
First of all, EVERYONE is a He...even though his friend Taylor is a SHE. Hilarious! We have had to tell Hudson and Taylor that pottying is private and we don't go together, but apparantly before that convo happened he noticed that Tay does not wear "big boys"...whaaaat? Too funny. Pretty sure I'll share that one at his wedding rehearsal.

Another Taylor story...we were all at the table eating lunch.
T: (trying to get in her chair)
H: "I help you."
T: "I do it by myself."
H: " You're a big boy!" (he totally meant this as a compliment for getting in her chair!)
T: "No, I a big girl."
H: "You're a big boy."
M: "No, Hudson, Taylor's a big girl. She's not a boy."
H: "Daddy's a big, big, BIG boy."
M: "Yep. Got it now."

Last one...you're probably bored. But I will read these for years to come :)
Last night Hudson needed a bandaid and Matt thought we were out. I told him we had some and went to get it.
M: "Here you go, buddy."
H: "Tank you, mommy. You're a good finder."
Sweet....nothing like the way a 3 year old compliments :)

Meatballs and a Marathon

2010-02-22T12:35:00.000-08:00

Whaaat?? Well, let me explain. Several friends have urged me to blog about this particular story, so here you go. I decided in August that I would start training for a half-marathon. My friend Julia was planning to run the half in Mobile in January and wanted me to run it with her so I decided I would give it a shot. Some of you are already laughing at this point :) I was NOT a runner. Never have been. I would say that I had not been in shape for a good ten years. So there I was...I mapped out a training schedule and decided that I would do it. Well, those of you that know me well know that I love to cook. So that particular evening I was trying out a new recipe straight from Food Network for none other than...yummy MEATBALLS! Ok, now I'm laughing as I remember :) We ate dinner and it was great. I cleaned up and then decided to go for my FIRST RUN! Why, you ask? Because I thought that if I didn't start THAT DAY, I would never do it. So I did and it was not pretty. My neighbor was out cutting his grass and tried to talk to me...I was so embarassed because I had to tell him that I needed to go because I thought I was gonna lose my dinner!!! SAD!! So, there you go...that's how it all started :)

I did run that half-marathon with my friends Katie and Annie. Annie has been my long-term training buddy and it has been so wonderful! I think that I have loved it because it has given me some "me time" and great time with good girl friends. This weekend I am running my very first marathon! I'm very nervous and very excited! So, anyways...this post is for those of you that say you could never do it. I assure you that you could! Anyone can do it if I can go from almost losing my dinner to running a marathon. So, hope that encourages you (or just makes you laugh)!

Happy Birthday, Matt!!

2010-02-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

Matt turned 33 on Saturday!! In honor of his birthday, I would like to list 33 reasons I love him. Enjoy!

He is merciful. He is committed to mercy ministry and has a heart for the poor.

He is a great coach. He cares more about the boys he coaches than wins/losses. I admire that.

He is patient. Very patient :) He married me when I was 21 (almost 22!), so lets just say he has had ample opportunity to be patient with me.

He doesn't love money. Oh how I love this about him. It challenges me.

He is kind. He always lets Hudson bring a basketball home after the games. He doesn't have to...but he is a kind daddy. So, he brings it home and takes it back multiple times a week.

He keeps short accounts. He forgives quickly and often. I wish I could be more like that. There is never a time that I ask for forgivenss that he doesn't give it.

He is supportive. He has supported me in many, many things (I tend to bounce around). He is always so encouraging.

He reads to our children. I love to hear him read books to Hudson...complete with funny voices :) I think he is one of the reasons Hudson has a love for books.

He loves "hole in the wall" restaurants. I love it!!! Nothing like a little random restaurant...they always have the best food.

He challenges me. He brought home a sermon about not wasting your life...I was so challenged. Thank you for that.

He serves. It is truly a gift of his. I see it in his dad as well. He loves to serve others- he always helps. I am so thankful for it.

He is not short-tempered. One of the things I love the most about him. It feels very secure to be around someone that is not short-tempered.

He is full of useless knowledge :) It's hilarious! He knows more random trivia than anyone I know...he's a killer trivial pursuit player.

He is loyal. He's loyal to me, loyal to his job, his friends, his church...I think it is rare in our culture.

He's a forever optimist. I have a love-hate relationship with this quality :) He will always think there is plenty of time, money, space, etc. I need more of this quality.

He's never too busy. He always has time for his children. This sometimes mean right before a basketball game- he always gives Hudson a little daddy time.

He is steady. I so appreciate this about him. He doesn't have many highs and lows...he is a very steady man. He balances my emotions.

He tells silly jokes. He would not be Matt Spivey without "yo momma" jokes. They still make me laugh....sometimes :)

He is artistic. He painted me the most beautiful painting. He paints for his family. If you don't know him, you would never guess it.

He sacrifices. He sacrifices many material things for me to stay home with our children. He works very hard to afford me that opportunity. I don't tell him enough how thankful I am.

He teaches our children. He teaches them about Jesus. It is beautiful.

He is a hard worker. He always goes to work...always. It restores him to work in the yard. He is not lazy.

He is a "drawer-cleaner". It makes me laugh...and annoyed sometimes :) The house can be a wreck and when he gets in a "cleaning mood" he immediately goes to clean out a drawer! I can't relate...but if he were gone, I would miss this quality!!

He volunteers for VBS. He's so good at it!! The kids still talk about "agent sparks". I admire him.

He loves my family. He loves them the way I do. Loves them like his own family.

He is a man of character. He would highlight his faults. He would say he sins lots...I think that makes him a man of character all the more.

He loves waffle house. All-star special, anyone? It makes me smile.

He is quirky. He can only use a towel ONCE...ok maybe twice, but it doesn't bother him if the little trash cans don't have a trash bag. It makes me laugh.

He accepts me. Even when I'm enormous preggo about to give birth he tells me that I only gained weight in my tummy...which we both know isn't true :)

He is leaving a heritage. I am proud of the heritage/legacy he is giving our children. I want them to be men like him.

He rarely says no. Can I get a woop woop? He does kinda spoil me...and this is the only time I'll admit it. He rarely says no to a request...let me be reminded not to take advantage.

He is mysterious. I like this about him. I always have.

He loves me. And he loves me well.

After two kids and almost 6 years of marriage, I can say that I love this man more than I did when I married him. What a tribute to him and God's faithfulness to grow our marriage! I love you, Matt! I pray that we celebrate many, many, many more birthdays!

He's So Funny

2010-01-12T20:23:00.000-08:00

Here are the latest Hudson conversations/quotes:

H: Jonah swallowed da wheel (whale).

M: What? A wheel?

H: He didn't listen to God.

M: Oh...(getting it now)

H: He swallowed da wheel and took his time-out. And then da wheel spit him out and he said, "sorry".

Later in the evening Hudson disobeyed and was going to have to get a spanking. We were talking about him disobeying mommy. Here's his reply.

H: Jonah not get a spankin cause he don't have a sad spoon.

I couldn't even spank him then. Hilarious.

H: Mommy, that's freakin' me out! (woops...guess I say this one)

H: You're gettin' on my nerbs (nerves).

He said this to my brother on Christmas. Who is this kid?

H: Mommy, I'm stirswee (thirsty).

My mom started to correct him. I asked her not to : ) He's already growing up too fast!

Hudson also had a conversation with daddy about a little girl at his school named Gracie. When Matt asked him if she was pretty, he said:

H: Yeah. She's got blue eyes.

What?!!! What 3 year old notices the color of his friend's eyes? So cute...but sooo sad for his mommy. Maybe he was just liking her because his mommy has blue eyes : )

Family Traditions

2010-01-12T20:02:00.001-08:00

Christmas was so heart-warming this year! It was so great to share it with our children and to begin our own family traditions. I have compiled a list of traditions from this year that I would like to continue...and a list that I would like to trash : ) Enjoy.

Traditions we hope to keep:

* Choosing and cutting our own Christmas tree on Thanksgiving day. Thanks Stinson Christmas Tree Farm (and Jerry)!! We LOVED our tree and LOVED the experience!

* Visiting the Live Nativity here in Mobile. It made for a great opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas.

* Opening matching PJs on Christmas Eve.

* Eating a breakfast for dinner meal together as a family on Christmas Eve.

* Matt reading the Christmas story to the kids and me on Christmas Eve (man, I guess a lot of these are Christmas eve traditions)

* Singing Happy Birthday to Jesus on Christmas Morning

* The kids receive 3 gifts each on Christmas morning. This also created an awesome opportunity to explain the reason for gift-giving. Thank you Lord for sending Jesus!!

Traditions I hope to trash:

* Carrying that beautiful Christmas tree strapped to the top of our car down I-65 for 2 1/2 hours. For those of you that know me...I like to blend in. Definitely didn't blend that day.
* Making a mad dash to Old Navy ON Christmas Eve for those cute little matching PJs...seriously. Do I have to procrastinate?
* We will keep the Christmas story. We will not read the 7 page version from the Children's Bible storybook.

* Having to head back to Foodworld because we forgot syrup. Again, ON Christmas Eve.

Sidenote here...our Christmas Eve/Christmas Day were celebrated early because of traveling.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-12T19:50:00.000-08:00

Has it really been a month? Dang. I don't want to be a "once-a-monther". I'll try to do better...again : ) Aaaand again, this is a bad pic. I guess you can all gather that a) we are not photographers and b) we do not own a photographer's camera. So, just go with it and excuse the horrible pictures, please. This is our tree. I love it. I love having a live tree- our house smelled so wonderful.

Christmas and New Years were awesome. We had daddy home for 2 weeks at Christmas!! Woop woop. And we also got to travel to see both sides of our family. It was wonderful. There are several family traditions that we started that I would like to continue...and several that we would NOT like to continue. I will fill you in in the next post.

I love this picture! Brothers on Christmas morning in their matching pjs. I mean, isn't Christmas all about basketball? Doesn't Hudson's face just scream, "My daddy's a basketball coach!" ?

Happy 3rd Birthday!!

2009-12-08T13:26:00.000-08:00

We had Hudson's birthday party at Chuck E Cheese...fun, fun! You can tell that Chuck E Cheese himself is not Hudson's favorite!! He was sticking pretty close to daddy. All in all, it was so much fun!

And, this is what we REALLY came for! : ) He LOVES basketball!

Here are a few of Hudson's favorites:

* DADDY!! Yep, Matt can do no wrong in his eyes. He is the greatest! It is really so sweet...

* MILK. You heard me...milk. He could drink it 24/7.

* His "blankie". Thank you Aunt Cynthia! He has loved it since birth.

* Curious George. I would be ok if we never watched another episode.

Praise God for blessing our family!! Hudson has brought more joy than we could have ever imagined 3 years ago!

Six Months Old!!

2009-12-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

Not the greatest picture, I know. We've got to be better at taking pictures of this little one...don't you just love those blue eyes? I cannot believe he is 6 months old already!!! SAD! I always wanted Hudson to do things early, but I am eager for little Micah to stay a baby. I'm not ready for him to grow up!

Here are his stats: 20 lbs. 2 oz and 27 1/2 inches long- 90th percentile for both!

A few of his favorites:

* MOMMY! Yes, I am still the favorite for a little while longer : )

* His "blankie". Both boys love their blankets.

* Hudson. Nobody can make him laugh like big brother.

* Rocking back and forth on all fours...he's not crawling yet!

Micah has been such a sweet joy!! I praise the Lord for blessing us with him!!

I'm a Big Boy

2009-12-08T13:08:00.001-08:00

Hudson has just started wanting to dress himself in the mornings...this is what that looks like!! He was ready to go outside so he thought he could speed up the process by getting himself ready! Hilarious! He said that they matched because they were "team" shirt and shorts.

He has been saying some funny things lately, also. Here are a couple:

* H: "Oooohh!! Hey, mommy!! There's a dumptruck!! " M: "Yeah, buddy." H: " FOLLOW IT!!!"

*H: "Hey, mommy! I need some tullup (I hear pull-up). M: "No, Hudson. I am not getting you a pull-up if you need to go to the bathroom." H: "Mommy! I need some tullup!" M: "What? (as I walk to the bathroom I realize he totally meant toilet paper. Mom of the year award right here. )

I warned you...

2009-12-08T12:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, I told you I would be terrible at this! I will attempt to update you with a multitude of pictures...can I blame basketball season???? I will say that though I have been terrible at updating my own, I have been faithful at reading yours : )

These are pictures of Hudson's Harvest party, Thanksgiving party, and of him carving his first pumpkin!!

10 yr. Class Reunion

2009-11-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

Whaaattt??? Ten years? Crazy. Matt and I had a blast catching up with everyone. It was great to get a date and to spend time with adults : ) It was so much fun...I laughed more than I've laughed in a long time.

Me, Tara, and Daphne.

Yep...you read it right. Rodeo Mexican Restaurant. Reuniting...Jack, Alabama style :)

First Auburn Game

2009-11-01T18:39:00.000-08:00

We had a VERY busy October, and I obviously didn't post a lot along the way, so stick with me and I hope you enjoy the pics!

Hudson and Micah's first Auburn football game! This is Hudson getting his hand painted- it lasted about ten minutes and then he scratched it all off.

Micah snugged up with mommy at the game. It was soooo cold! One thing is for sure, my boys LOVE their blankies.

The whole fam at the game. I know it's an awful picture- the lady taking it forgot that I was even supposed to be in it, but it's the only picture we got of the whole family. Imagine that.

Fun Times

2009-10-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

We have had some funny conversations with Hudson lately, I thought you'd enjoy!

In Old Navy:

Me: "We need to go, Matt, I've gotta go tee tee."

Hudson: "Hold it, mommy!! Hold it!!! We almost dere, hold it!!"

I cracked up about this one for the whole ride home!! When he tells me he needs to go tee tee, I am constantly telling him to hold it all the way to the potty...guess he thought he should do the same :)

Before Bed:

Matt: "Hudson, look at me. Do you know that I love you very very much?"

Hudson: "Uh huh, and I miss you every day, daddy."

Awww...how great is that? That'll make a daddy's heart smile. I will say that Hudson is telling the truth here- he does miss his daddy every day! Most every day he calls Matt in the morning time and when I go in to get him, he says, "No, daddy.". You would think that one day he would understand that daddy is at work in the mornings, but I have to remind him. I guess that is a tribute to what a great dad Matt is :)

At Auburn game:

Hudson: "I need go tee tee."

Me: "Ok, buddy, but you have a pull-up on if you want to let it flow." (I know, I'm a bad mom for trying to make my potty-trained child go tee tee in his pull-up...don't judge me!)

Hudson: "No! I caaaaannn't! It's wully important to the game...I need go tee tee."

How funny! He's such a little bargainer...he has a reason for everything. Apparently that night, it was really important to the game that he go tee tee in the potty. Also, I am fully aware that two out of the three stories have to do with pottying...that's where we are in life :)

I know

2009-10-06T10:35:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I totally know that the pic of Matt and I is HUGE and that the spacing on my first post is terrible...I'll get better and I'll figure it out. Promise.

Hello, friends!

2009-10-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

Well, here is an attempt at entering the blogging world! I will confess that I have been a "blog stalker" for some time now. I really enjoy keeping up with friends that no longer live in Mobile through their blogs, so I am hoping to do the same with mine. Those of you that know me well know that I am terrible at these kinds of things, but I'm going to give it my best shot :) I have been awful at documenting all of the cute things that Hudson and Micah do, so I hope this will make me better- you know, a sort of online family diary...so here it goes! I will warn those of you that are not family- our life is probably not that interesting to most, so read at your own risk. We are just going through life, learning how to live and walk with God as a family of four. So, enjoy!

I'll start with an update on the kiddos with pics for all of you out-of-towners!

Hudson has just started "school" (really mother's day out) two mornings a week. Isn't he so cute on his first day of "school"? He is doing so well with it! He has made some new friends and is learning his colors and shapes. I expected him to be sad on his first couple of days, but I was the one that was sad! In his 2 1/2 years of life I have never left him with someone that I didn't know personally...so it was an adjustment for me anyways.

I'm so proud and so sad all at the same time! He is really way too grown up!

And here is my little Micah...he is 5 months old now- SAD!!! He is growing up waaay too fast. I feel like I should still have a little baby and I don't. He has the sweetest little personality and is an easy grin. Hudson has been so good with him and I'm very thankful for that.