whew!

cha·os (kā'ŏs') n.

1. A condition or place of great disorder or confusion.
2. A disorderly mass; a jumble.


We don't have the chance to see these guys all that often but amazingly this doesn't stop them from finding their groove! It was all laughter and squeals at Cousin Bug's birthday party last weekend; this sweet little boy just turned two. My favorite moment? When Cousin Sweetie (above, second from left) had to have a talk with the eldest cousin Meeley (above, center) when things started to get a little out of hand. It was adorable!! Cousin Sweetie is very articulate and appears much older and wiser than three; Meeley took her very seriously when she told him he shouldn't do what he was doing. His normal tendency would have been to skip past the youngling.

The cousins had a blast in the backyard "water park" while the adults did their best to avoid getting soaked. It was the perfect summer day.

**BFF**

Meeley and Drew met at the beginning of the school year and became fast friends. Before meeting Drew, Meeley did his best to describe the new friend to me: "He looks just like me, but with dark hair and brown eyes." Identical twins they were not, but in personality and demeanor they were very much the same! They had tons in common, including a younger brother. After spending gobs of time together this summer, Meeley was disappointed to see Drew leave for 3-weeks to visit family and friends in Michigan. Over the course of the last week, he repeatedly asked: "Hasn't it been three weeks yet? How long has it been? Do you think he's home yet? Are you sure they'll call?" Thankfully, his family called last night. Unfortunately, it wasn't the news I was hoping for:

Drew and his family are moving to Michigan.

We arranged a playdate for Tuesday and then I set out to break the news to my boys. It was heartwrenching! Ren cried while Meeley just sat and listened. He bravely said a couple of things about "being pen-pals" and "sending emails" before slipping off to his room. Moments later, I heard him crying and went in to give him a big hug.

That's what I continue to do - give big hugs. I told him about my best friend and shared what it was like for me when she moved to Michigan (for real). And, what helps me when things change is knowing that there is One who never changes.

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

a quick shot...

from the fair at Central Park during Leprechaun Days.

She's here!!!!!

Okay, I'm a blubbering fool this morning. TARA FINALLY HAS HER BABY!! I had to post this for all of my scrapbooking customers and friends who have been eagerly awaiting her arrival.

Her name (which has been a secret this entire time) is: Angel Lynn.

Congratulations Tara and Bill!!!!

Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking in anything. (James 1:4)

birthday mosaic

1. starting the day with a good jump, 2. Ren & puppy, 3. he has several girlfriends, 4. my favorite, 5. Ren Yuck Face, 6. peek, 7. little goofball, 8. Go Twins, 9. favorite perspective, 10. 2 wheelin' it, 11. renzilla, 12. this is the life., 13. calvin & hobbes, 14. IMGP4123, 15. b-day muffin, 16. Stinky Face

Ren turns 7 today! Can you believe it? My hubby often jokes about putting a rock Ren's head while he is sleeping to stop him from growing. At bedtime last night, we told Ren we were going to use one of the large rocks we picked up from the family farm. His response, in very low Ren-like monotone: "Then I'll just be a really short 7-year old."

Journaling Ideas: Write a letter to your child on their birthday. What has changed in the last year? How have they grown? What friends do they have? What are your child's interests, habits, likes and dislikes? What makes you proud?

a little friendly fire...

between cousins! Meeley declared war on M and a huge battle ensued.

happy day :-)

My uncle Greg just celebrated his retirement in a BIG way. The day included live music, face painting, balloon sculptures, buggy rides through the country, great food, and decorations that rivaled a wedding! No, Greg did not hate his job, he was simply celebrating the fact that he had made it. He had persevered. He was a survivor.

You see, two years ago Greg was battling a very rare form of lung cancer. We had a very different kind of party for him then - a fundraiser. Two years ago his prognosis was uncertain, the future cloudy.

Unbelievably, it did not hit me until we were there: this was more than just a retirement party. It was a celebration of Greg's life and the promise of tomorrow.

You will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. (Isaiah 58:9)