It's a Golden Life

I wanted to call you and wish you a Merry Christmas. I wanted to call and just hear your voice, actually. I really miss you. The older I get, it seems that I have grasped the depth of loss. I had never experienced losing anyone before. You're so silent. Your memories flash through my mind and the sound of your voice-I hope and pray I always remember that distinct tone. The way you said "Buh-bye". The way you so lovingly called me "Meggie" or "Moo Moo" (short for "Meggie Moo"). How you apologized for not sending me a birthday card on time (because you were in the hospital). Little did I know that was the last card you'd send to anyone. You even still sent a Christmas package last year while you were in so much discomfort. I came across the clothes you sent the kids the other day and wanted to keep them forever. Charlie sent me your Chinese pin cushion. I immediately inhaled the fabric to try and catch your scent, but it has been too long. ...

As I was driving around today, I could not get the tragedy that happened yesterday to stop running through my mind-I'm quite positive I will never be able to. The flags that were all flown at half mast were reminders over and over again. It got me to thinking about those parents, brothers, sisters, friends-that will be burying their loved ones this week. While the nation is mourning for them, the symbolism of the flag being kept at half mast is overwhelming. I feel as if the United States has become a community rather than a giant conglomeration of people who are different, just in a days time. There is no doubt in my mind that during this coming year (ordered by Obama until December 18, 2013 at sunset) every time I see the flag at half mast, I will not only think on the senseless tragedy that has taken place, but mourn for the victims of the families and friends that have been effected. I feel united as a country in mourning for the life that has not only passed, but what their ...

Today marks a big milestone in Malachi's life! Today begins his journey of school. He has been asking for about 3 years now to go to school. He has the personality where he truly enjoys learning something new or putting into practice what he has discovered. He said that he was "up all night" because he was so excited to start school today. We've had a countdown since we found out there was an opening at the preschool center for 10 days, and each day he had to countdown how many more nights he had to sleep until he could go! He said he is most excited to make new friends and to make artwork. We went over all the scenarios of-what if a friend gets mad at you and says mean things, what if you have to go to the bathroom, what if you don't like the food on your plate, and what if a friend believes in Santa and you don't. We tried to prepare him as much as possible. I didn't cry! I know he is going to have the best time! I am going to miss him!! He was suc...

I have been trying to find ways to keep the kids out of the cabinets without using those pesky baby proofing items! Not only are they expensive (when you have a lot of cabinets to do), but they ruin the cabinets. Since kids typically grow more fascinated in their books and toys as they grow older-I just needed a temporary solution to keep the kids out of the crackers, breads, canned goods and snacks. I was growing tired of Pax bringing me the entire loaf of bread as of he'd found a gem. So here it is-the tools: Velcro, hot glue. Simply hot glue the opposite sides of Velcro. One to the cabinet door or drawer, and one to the base of the cabinet. Works like a charm :) The best part-once the Velcro wears out-its cheap to replace it. The other best part-it won't ruin the cabinets with silly holes.

25 things about me 2012: 1.) I like sleeping on top of the sheets, but under the comforter. It drives Donovan crazy. 2.) I hate sleeping with socks on. 3.) I love watching animal planet-Animal Cops is my fav show on there. I know, I'm weird. 4.) I love reading and watching love stories. (That aren't filled with crap, rather a more "real" picture of love). 5.) I like the twilight series, but didn't even get into it until the 2nd movie (new moon). 6.) I love cooking, and have to limit myself to 2-3 new recipes a week. 7.) Pinterest is probably my favorite website. 8.) I love crafting, but rarely have time. 9.) I still think about my Nanny everyday. Often forgetting she's not here anymore. 10.) I am dying (a tad dramatic, I know) to play soccer! 11.) I want to be an elementary school teacher when my kiddos are all in school. 12.) I have an Associate of Arts degree and am almost finished with my Bachelors. (I just recently realized how much I love t...

Happy Birthday, Paxton! I can't believe you're one. You're walking & climbing & running. You love to sleep, eat anything, and love to play. One year ago today, we met you for the first time & instantly fell in love.

This is a little personal, and it stung. A lot. My husband doesn't care if he hurts my feelings. Let me explain. He cares more about the condition of my heart. He knows that he is probably the only one that could be so brutally honest with me (if he is being truthful) and I will mull it over and think about whatever it is he was trying to convey. I am thankful that I have him in my life. I'm stubborn and just a ball of emotion, but he takes the time to know me and knows when (he thinks) my intentions are off or my character is out of place. Even when I think I'm one step closer to being like Jesus-I realize how easy it is to be consumed with all the wrong intentions, without intending to. I'm just thankful that he cares more about my sanctification and the condition of my heart than my emotion.