Bunch of Barrons

Bright Side

2012-01-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

You can't have a light without a dark to stick it in. ~Arlo Guthrie

I'm not usually a Pollyanna type. I tend to be a bit of a pessimist. (I don't think I'm a negative person exactly, but I do worry a lot and focus on what is wrong with a situation and try to fix it, instead of appreciating and seeing what may be right.)

So this quote was just a little reminder for me (and you, if you need it...no charge.) to look at the bright side and appreciate the tough times as what they are...a way for me to learn and be more aware and present in the good times.

Check out more shots at Monday Rewind, Macro Monday, and And Then She Snapped

The Cheetos

2012-01-28T07:00:00.003-05:00

Since our newest addition is here...the older two have kind of become partners in crime. Don't worry, they still fight and irritate the daylights out of each other, but they have been doing a lot of playing together too. I've learned there are few things weirder in the world than 2 and 4 year olds. I mean, seriously weird. Like I can't even understand half of what they are making up while they play.

I guess that's normal. I don't remember what I was like when I was either of those ages. I know I always thought my little siblings were weird, but that might have been a biased opinion since I was the oldest and it's my job to think my younger siblings are weird. These two are getting good at using their imaginations, and are constantly playing out their favorite movie or TV characters.

Recently they were playing a new game that I really wasn't getting. They kept running around and calling each other "cheetos". Two things, I don't buy cheetos (they create orange fingers, I'm not crazy) and last time I checked cheetos don't run. I finally realized they meant Cheetahs...as in cats, not snacks. I tried to tell them they were "Cheetahs" but it was met with blank stares as if I had no clue what I was talking about. Maybe I don't. Cheetos these days may not be what they used to.

The second shot is for Simple as That, Sunday Snapshot, and The Paper Mama.

Check out more {mom}ents at Behind the Camera and Dreaming

True Story

2012-01-26T07:00:00.002-05:00

I have a lot of things I'm juggling at the moment. So the other morning I thought I needed one more thing to do (in my postpartum hormonal stupor) and that it would be a good idea to fix the hooligans a big breakfast. (Well, big for me. French toast and eggs, and a cinnamon cluster Billy had brought home from CFA the night before.) It went something like this: Get out the pan. Get out the eggs and bread. Pull Tirzah off Merrick and get her hands off his throat. Run into the living room and put Jericho's pacifier back in his mouth so he'll stop crying. Return to the kitchen.

Crack a couple of eggs and open the bread. Turn around and grit my teeth at the kids (who are currently fighting over a penguin they have two of) and tell them to be quiet for the 104th time so Jericho won't wake up. Jericho wakes up, run back into living room and put his pacifier back in his mouth. Twice. Return to kitchen...almost fall while you try not to trip over the kid who is out of her seat. Again.

Get toast and eggs in the pan. FINALLY. Get kids out of the cinnamon cluster that they aren't supposed to have until after the "nutritious" portion of breakfast. Hah. Take that stinkin penguin away and stuff it in the closet. Jericho wakes up, run into the living room and put pacifier back in his mouth and tell him if he'll give me five minutes of quiet I'll buy him a Ferrari when he gets his driver's license. Heck, when he starts walking. Return to kitchen.

I've almost burned the toast, AND the eggs. Get them out of the pan and onto the plates hoping the kids don't notice. They don't, because their back to wrestling on the table and fighting over who gets to be "MetroMan". (Huh?) Tell them if they don't be quiet, all while whispering as ferociously as possible, I'm going to eat the cinnamon cluster all by yourself. (Secretly hope someone makes more noise so you can eat it yourself.) Of course they don't. But Jericho smells a conspiracy, so run back in the living room but this time he's not having the pacifier deal at all. Finally just give up and take him into the kitchen, getting the kids out of the cinnamon cluster again, but this time one handed.

Go sit on the couch and swear I'm never cooking breakfast again. Eggo waffles and cereal until Jesus comes back.

The first shot is for This or That, and the second shot is for Show Off.

The last shot is for YouCapture

The Coveted Black Crayon

2012-01-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

Didn't do too much yesterday. I'm kind of getting used to this three kiddos thing. I
mean, other than occasionally drooling on myself I'm so tired. But that's normal right? Just say yes.

I have kind of been treading water getting used to all this. So I felt bad for the older hooligans who have watched a lot of movies the last couple weeks. I felt like we needed to do something crafty. I'm not crafty. So we colored.

I also didn't want to clean up a big mess. I figured coloring was relatively safe. Merrick only broke 1/3 of the crayons. Thanks goodness it's a big box. But he broke the black crayon, sadly, which was the only one he wanted to use.

I'll maybe attempt a craftier craft soon. Something that doesn't take long though since Jericho wants to eat every 10 minutes. But for now I think finding another black crayon would win me mom of the year.

The first shot is for Tones on Tuesday, Communal Global,

The second shot is for Happiness Project, Capturing Beauty, and Sweet Violet.

The last is for Sweet Shot.

In the Details

2012-01-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

I read a quote recently that said: "It's the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen." It made me think, as a mom of 3 now I spend most of my day taking care of little details. Take that to mean the little people or all the little things those little people need. Either way, I'm taking care of little things all day.

It can get monotonous, and sometimes I find myself dreading the starting of another day when all those same details need to be taken care of all over again. The same people need another cup of juice, and their hair and teeth brushed, and their fighting yelling selves put into time-out. I am not happy to admit that, but I know it's something a lot of other people can probably admit to thinking. (Whether you're a mom or not. Sometimes starting a new day is hard.)

But then I also read something on facebook the other day that kind of smacked me in the face. I spend too much time feeling sorry for myself about all the "details" that I have to take care of. Sighing over another mess to clean up, crying because I'm tired. I'm human, it's gonna happen I know. But the article I read said the problem isn't with those details, it's with my attitude. I can choose to thrive in this job I've been given, and let myself be used to bless the little people I spend the often monotonous days with.

They may be small, these kids and the details, but they are vital. And in pouring my life and time into them, it's given back to me multiplied when I get to watch them turn into something big.

The first shot is for Macro Monday. The Second shot is for And Then She Snapped
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

A Foot Person

2012-01-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

I'm not a foot person. I don't freak out over feet or anything, but let's face it, some people's feet are pretty gross. These three sets of feet pictured above, however, don't gross me out. I'm very familiar with these 30 little toes, since they've all taken turns kicking me for 37, 40, and 38 weeks each. And who am I kidding, they are all still kicking me.

These 30 toes are leaving footprints all over my life (in a good way) and sock lint, dirt, and crumbs galore all over my house (not so good, but what do you do?). I am thrilled with how the older two are adjusting to Jericho being here, and hope that they keep looking out for their "baby bubba" as they call him.

Speaking of feet and footprints and all that stuff, I wouldn't mind if he follows in his older two siblings footsteps. (Not exactly the wild and crazy part, but they are sweethearts at their core and really care about each other and the people around them) These two have a big job, and they seem to be taking to it with gusto. (Seriously, they kiss Jericho 473 times a day, and inform me if he makes the slightest squeak that I need to address.) I'm hope that the big job I have ahead of me (raising 3 kiddos into civilized human beings) is something I savor and see as the blessing it is...sock lint and all.

My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not stumbled. / Psalm 17:5

The first is for Simple as That, third is for Sunday Snapshot.
The last shot is for The Paper Mama and Scripture & a Snapshot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Not So Bare

2012-01-19T07:00:00.001-05:00
One of my Christmas presents was a gift voucher for canvases. I had been wanting to put some pictures up on the kids' wall since we finally finished painting it. The walls in their room are kind of bare, but part of that is because there always seem to be toys driving on the walls and grubby little fingers rubbing all over them. I have been scared to give them something else to put fingerprints on.

I finally bit the bullet though, when I saw a kid's room on Pinterest with large prints of the kids on the walls. So after Christmas we took some pictures and ordered the canvases. They took for-e-ver to get here. Partly because I was anxious to get them and partly because they seemed to have forgotten I ordered them. They finally got here Tuesday afternoon.

I love how they turned out. I am hoping they stay intact, seeing as I have placed them in the lion's den. I think they are far enough up on the walls that little dirty fingers can't reach them, but I'm just hoping those little dirty fingers don't throw heavy and/or pointed objects at them either. ;)

The first shot is for This or That, and the second shot is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Harder than I thought...

2012-01-17T07:00:00.003-05:00
So all those cutesie newborn shots you see? I definitely learned the hard way they are harder than they look. You must deal with uncooperative flailing limbs, wobbly heads, always hungry tummies, and little crying mouths. (probably not in all cases...but Jericho proved to take after his siblings in that he did everything possible to give me a run for my money.

I think all things considered, and the fact that I think he's reeediculously cute no matter what reeediculous face he is making, I think the few shots I ended up getting before he decided a lunch break was necessary turned out ok.

The awesome outfit was a shower gift from one of my best pals. I think its one of the cutest things pretty much ever. I only wish I'd had something like this for all the kiddos. The other two didn't get quite the newborn photo shoot since I wasn't quite as shutter happy. They are probably secretly thanking Jericho for taking the lens off of them for a few minutes.

The next to last shot is for Sweet Shot, Communal Global, and Capturing Beauty.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Tulips, Sunshine, and a Good Song

2012-01-16T07:00:00.003-05:00

And how the heavens, they opened up
Like arms of dazzling gold
With our rain washed histories
Well they do not need to be told

Show me now, show me the arms aloft
Every eye trained on a different star
This magic
This drunken semaphore
And I

We are listening
And we're not blind
This is your life
This is your time / Snow Patrol

The first shot is for Macro Monday. Check out more shots at Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Camping Out

2012-01-14T07:00:00.001-05:00
The other day one of my long-time pals came over to visit. She's been a friend, an (almost) roommate, and a part of my family since high school. She even offers to watch my kids. I know a real friend when they'll offer to watch my somewhat hyperactive and sarcastic children.

I think she won their hearts when she gave them these cool tents (featuring a few of their fav characters) for Christmas. While opening their presents Merrick exclaimed with a huge smile on his face, "This is the worst presents ever!" Obviously we need to work on our word definitions, since he clearly loves the tent. They have spent a lot of time in them over the last few days. And since it seems to keep them from arguing quite as much, they can live in them if they want.

While they were screaming and yelling and running in and out of their tents, Jericho was peacefully swinging away in the corner of the living room. Thank goodness he tolerates the noise. He sleeps through almost anything they dish out. I guess he's been listening to the chaos on the outside for 38 weeks...so he knew what was coming. As his shirt says, he's "Tougher than I Look". Although that is a pretty ferocious face he's making.

The last shot is for The Paper Mama, the first is for Simple as That, second is for Sunday Snapshot
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Its in the Diapers

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-05:00
So I'm sure you've heard the saying "the way to a man's heart is through his stomach". I think, in this house at least, the way to a woman's heart is through changing diapers at 3 am.

I've been blessed with a husband who doesn't think helping around the house isn't part of his job description. He never hesitates to put the kids in bed, do the laundry, or change diapers. I think that's pretty awesome.

I definitely appreciate this, especially after having our third baby. Those middle of the night feeding are a little easier to tolerate when you aren't doing it completely alone. Thanks, stud!

Check out more shots at YouCapture. The first shot is for This or That, third is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Survivor

2012-01-10T07:00:00.002-05:00
Yesterday was my first day home with all 3 kiddos. Alone, with all three kiddos. It actually wasn't as bad as I was expecting. Nothing too eventful happened...we just ate, played, visited with a few friends who came over, and broke up a few fights. Between the older two. Jericho generally minds his own business at this point unless he's eyeing me with a hungry gleam in his eye.

I think this 3 kids thing may not be that bad. We'll just have to see how it goes. What I'm not looking forward to is the first time I try to actually leave the house with all 3 of them. I think that's going to be the real test of my mommy powers. Stay tuned...I'm sure that'll make for an interesting blog post.

The last shot is for Sweet Shot, Communal Global, and Capturing Beauty.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Party of Five

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-05:00
So a couple of people have asked about Jericho's birth story. I decided it was pretty entertaining, so why not? I leave out gory details, thought, so have no fear. I try to forget those. ;) Although they are a little fresh in my mind at this point. With Tirzah's fast delivery (born within 2 hours of arriving at the hospital) I was expecting the same with Baby J. We were not disappointed.

Monday morning (the 2nd) I woke up at about 4 am and noticed that I was having cramps. No regular contractions, so I tried to ignore it. It kept up so about 5 am I decided to get up and take a bath. My go-to for dealing with pesky false labor, which I have lots of. This time no such luck. I got out of the bathtub and went back to bed at like 6:20. Billy woke up then and asked what was going on. I explained and be decided he was calling the doctor. (I think he wasn't wanting to deliver a baby.) I wasn't convinced I was in labor anyway, but decided to obey when the doctor said to get to the hospital. We called my brother and his wife to come over, and got to the hospital around 7:40am.

When we got there they stuck me in the oh-so-fashionable gown and put me in a bed. There was one lady screaming her lungs out down the hall who kinda scared me. Not gonna lie. I thought that only happened on tv. After the routine (you moms know the one) the nurse looks at me kind of surprised and says "you're completely dilated and your bag of water is bulging. I kind of lost it then. I guess I wasn't even sure I was in labor, and now I'm expected to deliver a baby...like now. I had wanted try a natural delivery like I attempted with Merrick (ya know, before the emergency c-section) but its kind of scary to have your mind made up for you. They broke my water and 45 minutes later Jericho Hawk was born. I had been at the hospital almost exactly an hour. I think the only thing that slowed him down enough to keep me from having a baby in the car (or my house) was that my water hadn't broken. He was a BIG guy, weighing 9lbs 2 oz...so I definitely got to experience that natural birth I wanted in all it's agony. I mean, glory. Thankfully he was in a hurry to get here.

This recovery has been the easiest by far of the three kiddos. I'm feeling really good (I mean, besides the mind numbing exhaustion) which kind of surprised me since kid was HUGE compared to my other two. (6.7 and 7.14) I'm so thankful for how well everything went, and that we are both healthy. He has our hearts completely already...and both his siblings seem just as thrilled with this kiddo who made us a party of five. We are so blessed, and are looking forward to this New Year and the new life this little man brings.

The second shot is for Macro Monday. Check out more shots at Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Three of them

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000-05:00
I now am the proud owner of 2 boys. *3 if you count Billy ;)* When I was pregnant the first time I was not sure I'd know how to handle a boy. I had 4 sisters (and only one brother) growing up. I was afraid baby boy clothes would be lame, I wouldn't know how to deal with diapers containing boy parts, and that I'd not be good at playing with trucks and tractors.

When the time came I realized baby boys aren't so bad. They might not wear cute little tutu's, but they have a way of wrapping a mommy right around their dirty little fingers. They say cute things like "mommy, you're so pretty" and suddenly they can get away with murder. Or they just lay there and look cute, like this:

I'm blessed by the two (3) boys in my house. Merrick is already a great big brother to Jericho, giving him lots of kisses, making sure he's ok, feeding him Sonic tater tots...almost. (This was attempted in the hospital, but thankfully prevented)

Their deliveries might not have been tons of fun, (I still need to post the dramatic story of Jericho's appearance...wow.) but as soon as I saw both of them I knew I was cut out to be the mom to these two men. They were already a part of my heart, and I'd been given them for a reason. I'm pretty grateful for two (3) of my own personal superheros.

When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby,
she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. / John 16:21

The first shot is for Paper Mama, Second is for Scripture and a Snapshot and Sunday Snapshot
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Here.

2012-01-05T07:00:00.004-05:00
Baby J, whose name is Jericho Hawk, is finally here. He was born Monday morning, much to my surprise. (We barely made it to the hospital in time) He is a big guy, even though he was a bit more than a week early...9 pounds 2 oz., 20 3/4 inches long.

He is terribly handsome, and I'm terribly exhausted and smitten. ;) I think it was a wonderful way to start a new year. We are doing well and feeling so blessed.

Check out more shots at YouCapture.
The second shot is for This or That, and third is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

All 3

2012-01-03T07:00:00.002-05:00
Not a lot to say, but just wanted to share the view from over here on New Years Eve. It's not every day that all 3 of the hooligans are in the same frame in my camera. I'm sure that will get even more tricky when one of them is not contained in my belly.

It's pretty much one of the best views I could ask for as a mom, and I think it was definitely the best way I could have started out the new year. :)

Check out more shots at Sweet Shot, and Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Puzzled

2012-01-02T07:00:00.003-05:00
The hooligans got a couple of puzzles for Christmas. My first reaction was, "uh oh", but we decided to give it a shot. I loved puzzles growing up, and I know it's good for them to do. So I swallowed my OCD and we got to work.

They had a great time, and were actually better at it than I expected. Merrick found a couple of the pieces himself, and amazingly didn't destroy the puzzle or anything else.

Minnie Mouse (aka Tirzah...yes, they do puzzles in costume) did have one costume related meltdown. She had to completely strip down before she was able to move on and help finish the puzzle. Not sure what the problem was...I think something was making her itch, but we may never know. The meltdown is not pictured...it wasn't pretty, and I'm sure she wouldn't appreciate those shots in the future.

I think there should be more puzzles in their future. If for no other reason than it made them sit still on one part of the house for longer than 3 seconds. That doesn't happen every day...or any day actually.

The second shot is for Macro Monday. Check out more shots at Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Sequential Shenanigans

2011-12-31T07:00:00.004-05:00
It's not very often that my entire family (sibling-in-laws included) are all together in one place at the same time. Seems like someone is always at work, at some kind of game, out of the state, at boot camp, etc. We were all together this past week over Christmas, and then we had a "family day" of sorts this past Wednesday.

We went to the mall first off. My dad had given all of the sisters these really fun leather bracelets from Zales. They have tons (read: too many for me to make any efficient decision) of beads that you can customize your bracelet with. So he gave us a bracelet and a gift card to go get two beads for our bracelets. The man knows how to give presents, that's for sure. He had 5 happy daughters and 1 happy daughter-in-law.

After that we went home and played some Sequence. (Read: World War III) My family is nothing if not ridiculously loud and competitive...so it was fun in a cover-your-ears and put on your big girl pants cuz you're about to get beat sort of way. ;) I just need to point out that my team won one of the two hands. Taking my preggo brain into account I was impressed.

We went out to dinner later than night, which was even more fun since dad paid. ;) Probably not fun for the waitresses who were serving our gigantic table, but fun for us. We consumed entirely too much chips and queso dip, and generally had a great time just hanging out together. Mom is hoping to make this post-Christmas family day a tradition, and I kinda hope that works out, too. :) Really thankful for the great family I've been blessed with.

For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. / Matthew 18:20

The last shot is for The Paper Mama, Second is for Sunday Snapshot,
Third is for Scripture and a Snapshot
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Christmas Photo Dump

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-05:00
I don't usually do "photo dump" types of posts, I like to run my mouth when I blog, but there were so many from Christmas, and I am so completely brain dead at the moment, (example...it took me 3 tries to type moment correctly.) that I just thought I'd show you our Christmas instead of tell you it. Trust me...I dont know that you'd understand a word I said right now anyway. So here goes...

We spent the day with my family, opening presents and then spending a little time outside shooting (a recent Christmas tradition), and then some time inside eating, and eating some more. I don't think I'll be hungry till New Years. It was a great holiday...hope yours was, too!

The first shot is for Texture Thursday, Second is for This or That.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

The Best Gifts

2011-12-27T07:00:00.006-05:00
We had a pretty fabulous Christmas this past weekend. The kiddos made out, getting spoiled by grandma's, grandpa's, aunties and uncles, and various other family members. They ever were relatively well-behaved during the spoiling, which made it a little easier for me to let them be spoiled. Billy and I gave them each a few small things, including these ridiculously cute hats that they have literally been wearing since Sunday morning...

We were pretty spoiled ourselves, just watching them have so much fun. We also got lots of great time with family and some great gifts on top of it. Related: I took these shots with the camera (5D Mark ii, for those who have asked what kind) Billy gave me, to have made into canvases for the kiddos' room (which was a gift from my sister-in-law). I'm pretty excited to get these up on the walls.

Out of all the gifts given yesterday, the time spent, the food consumed...these two items in the pictures are my very favorites. I'm so blessed to have been able to spend this holiday with them and their dad. (There is one more "gift" of this nature I'm waiting to open...but am ready whenever he is. ;) Come on Baby J!) How was your holiday? What was your favorite gift?

The first shot is for Sweet Shot, Second is for Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

For unto us...

2011-12-24T07:00:00.001-05:00
And the Grinch, with his grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow,
Stood puzzling and puzzling: “How could it be so?”
“It came without ribbons! It came without tags!
“It came without packages, boxes or bags!”

And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before!
“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store.
Maybe Christmas … perhaps … means a little bit more!”/ The Grinch

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. / Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas, everyone! :)
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Only in the movies.

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-05:00
The other night while hubby was working late I watched one of my favorite Christmas movies: White Christmas. I love this movie...it's so old and classic and just a bit cheesy. I do not, however, hope that we have a white Christmas. I'm just not ready. I need to watch It's a Wonderful Life next time Billy works late...he's not quite as thrilled with watching movies older than we are. But I was raised on old musicals and Disney cartoons, so it's not quite Christmas without it.

The movie was topped off with some yummy cheesecake from Cheesecake factory. Some friends from church gave us a gift card for this delicious establishment at the shower for Baby J. I highly recommend giving gifts of food to the mother of the baby you are showering...it's pretty awesome. ;) It definitely made my night even better.

I'm also getting pretty good at firing up the ol' fireplace by myself when Billy isn't home. It only requires opening the thingy-that-lets-out-smoke (that I don't know the official name of and am too lazy to google) and throwing in one of those duraflame logs and lighting it. Presto...I'm practically Laura Ingalls or something. Cozy evening coming up.

I'm going to miss the tree when we take it down after the holidays. It's taking up space in that empty corner of ours that needs a chair, and between that and the fireplace our house is extra cozy looking right now. I leave the lights on the tree turned on pretty much except when we are sleeping. Doesn't matter if it's daylight...there's something sad about a tree sitting there without it's lights on.

While I'm not hoping for said white Christmas, that can stay in the movies, I don't mind enjoying all the other cozies this season has to offer...from decorating sugar cookies, to wandering the mall, to eating the overload of chocolates that have been gifted to Billy at work. (I mean last night he brought home an entire basket of Godiva randomness. His coworkers are trying to kill me.) What are some of your favorite Christmas-time traditions?

See more "Festive" shots at YouCapture. The third shot is for Texture Thursday, last is for This or That.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Naptime Pastime

2011-12-20T07:00:00.003-05:00
{ First off...please let me know what you think of this new layout. Confusing? Ugly? Love it? Trying to decide if I like it or not and would love some feedback please! }

We had a real teaser of a day last weekend as far as Baby J goes. It was one of those "this is it" days that ended up not being it. I do have a lot of those, but this time we were even ready to have someone watch the other two hooligans.We were pretty sure there would be a baby by the end of the day, and after a long morning/afternoon of intense contractions (3 min apart for a while there) there was no baby.

He's still happily kicking away in my belly. And honestly that's ok. He can stand to bake a bit longer. I'm officially full term today, though, so I'm ready whenever he is. I was pretty cranky after all that contracting...and I'm a bit ashamed to admit I sat my sore, exhausted self on the couch and cried for a few minutes. I thought no one was watching, but Merrick spotted me, and offered to wrap me up with his blanket. It was so cute I cried harder. Billy apparently felt pretty bad for me too, because he let me open my Christmas present. ;) (My new Camera)

I didn't put up too much of a fight, and yesterday during the hooligans naptime I got in a little playtime. I'm so thankful for this gift. I'm sure it's going to be put to work. My last camera (which was another Christmas gift from my parents...a Canon Rebel XS) definitely earned it's keep...and I've used it so much that the shutter button is extra sensitive and the eye piece is gone. But it's still in good shape...I just think I'll let it have a little vacay.

I'm looking forward to getting better with this new camera. I still haven't had a lot of time to fiddle but so much with it. But I can see what I'll be doing now during naptime. Don't know if it's been nesting or what, but I've become a chore-finishing monster during naptime the last few weeks. I see that going right out the window, however.

The first shot is for Sweet Shot, Third shot is for Simplicity, Last shot is for Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Balanced

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-05:00
The other night we "made" Christmas cookies with the hooligans. I didn't actually make anything, thanks to Tollhouse...but we did roll out the pre-made dough and cut out the cookies ourselves. I feel like that should count for something right? ;) As previously stated, I don't bake anything for the sake of those around me.

The kiddos really seemed to have a good time. We aren't very "crafty" around here, which is an area in which I know I need to improve for their sake. They love doing crafts and coloring...and always bring home lots of artwork from when we go to the gym in the mornings and they get to do craft time in childwatch.

There were a few cookies that had "help" in the decorating, but as you can see from this shot Merrick decorated one of his cookies with a "snake" that apparently had legs, hands and "cheeks". I didn't realize snakes had those body parts.

Cheeks or not, the snake cookie was devoured in a short amount of time. I think this is the kind of craft we wouldn't mind repeating.

"A balanced diet is a Christmas cookie in each hand."

Check out more shots at Monday Rewind. The last shot is for Macro Monday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

No Title.

2011-12-17T07:00:00.001-05:00
Sometimes I get tired of staring at the blog I just wrote, wondering what to title it. So I won't bother. My brain is fried...my entire body aches...I have a giant pile of presents I should be wrapping but don't want to...cute kiddos who are having a picnic on my porch...and my Christmas present/push present (a 5D Mark ii!!! EEEEE!!!) is sitting under the tree staring at me. Obviously, I cannot be expected to name a blog post at this point.

Yes, I already know what I'm getting for Christmas. My hubby and I are awful at keeping presents a secret, and at giving them on the appropriate date. A lot of people give us grief about it, but I kind of love that about us. It's nice to be given a gift that someone is so excited about they just can't wait to give it to you. So the fact that my Christmas present is still in the box is a major feat of determination on both our parts right now.

Another reason for the lack of focus is that aching body thing I was talking about. I'm about 37 weeks so the fact that things are already progressed enough to be considered in "active labor" (if you know what I mean), but am not officially in labor is pretty annoying, and to be honest it hurts. I did this with Tirzah...it was a long last month of false labor and wondering if it could be weeks or any-minute-now. I'm up a lot of nights and have lots of contractions, but they never get any more consistent or closer together, so we wait. And we try to wait patiently.

But I know how good Baby J is gonna smell...all tiny and new, so it's hard. Much harder than waiting to open that box staring at my from under the tree. (I have already specified to Billy, however, if I go into labor before Christmas that box is going to the hospital with me...I will need to use it. Yes, NEED.) I am definitely gonna have made out like a bandit this Christmas as far as awesome presents go. I mean, look at the gifts I already have in the above picture. Peanut butter mustaches and all...they are pretty great.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
James 1:17
The first shot is for Scripture and a Snapshot, Second is for Sunday Snapshot
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

...with all that I want.

2011-12-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

And when the night is falling, Down the sky at midnight
Another year is stalling, Far away a good bye, good night

So small a turning, The world grows older every day
An ache, a yearning, Soften when I hear you say

And when the cold wind's blowing, Snow drifts through the pine trees
In houses lights are glowing, Likewise in your eyes that find me here...

...with all that I want.

Out in the harbor the ships come in, it's Christmastime. / The Weepies

See more "Light" shots at YouCapture. The second shot is for Texture Thursday, third is for This or That.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Lit

2011-12-13T07:00:00.003-05:00
Christmas is such a wonderfully tacky time of year. I mean not everyone's Christmas decor is tacky, but you have to admit those people who go all out? You're probably secretly just a little jealous of their ridiculous display of Christmas cheer. Like my neighbor a few houses down who decorated ONE tree in front of his house with enough lights for the entire block.

We've always wanted to put up a lot of lights on the outside of the house. Not over the top so much, just a little something. With how expensive gift giving is it always seems to be the thing we decide to skip. Not this year.

This was enough for me...although Billy would like to do more. Our house is the only one in our little cluster of townhouses that has lights on it (besides the crazy tree). I was secretly a little worried our neighbors wouldn't appreciate our lights, but after my neighbors gruesome Halloween display I decided this shouldn't be frowned upon but so much.

The kids are thrilled as you can imagine. They would leave the lights plugged in all day if I let them. Nevermind the fact they wouldn't be able to SEE them in broad daylight. The crazy tree is another story though. I think if that was left on all day someone would mistake it for the airport.

The first shot is for Sweet Shot, Live, Love, Travel, and second is for Simplicity, third is for Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Showered

2011-12-12T07:00:00.002-05:00
This past weekend I had the serious blessing of being thrown a baby shower. I didn't think those usually happened by the time baby number 3 rolls around. So I was pretty thankful and excited when my sister and sister-in-law told me what they were planning.

I think after the shower has happened, and I've opened so many generous gifts of tiny diapers and adorable little outfits (and one ridiculously awesome stuffed bear that is as big as my 3 kids together...) I am even more excited for the upcoming arrival of Baby J. I mean, he has all this cool stuff he needs to use.

I know I'm going to be thoroughly exhausted when he does arrive, so I'm trying to enjoy these last weeks and not rush things, but we seriously cannot wait to meet him. And I seriously cannot wait to use his actual name as opposed to "Baby J". I am awful at keeping secrets and this one is tougher than I thought.

I'm so grateful for everyone who gave thoughtful gifts this weekend, and for all the people in our lives who are just as excited and anxious to meet Baby J as we are. He's going to be one blessed little man, and we are already some blessed parents. So...anytime you're ready, Baby J. ;)

The first shot is for Macro Monday.
Check out more shots at Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Life Lessons

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-05:00
My hubby is a huge fan of Oreos and milk. He eats them almost every night, and it's something of a tragedy when we run out of either one. And he must have the Double Stuf Oreos. He thinks the normal Oreos are kind of a waste of time. I prefer the golden Oreos, honestly, but have never turned down a cookie that I can remember.

I decided the other day, as I was attempting to sneak Oreos while the kiddos were eating lunch, that it was time to introduce them to Oreos and milk. Ya know, since I had been caught eating them myself. I swear I could wait until they were napping in another room and they would still figure out if I was eating something I don't particularly want to share. They are kind of like sharks or something, they can just smell it.

After they finished their lunch I let them both have an Oreo to dip in milk. It was pretty much a disaster of black soggy crumbs when they were finished, but from the chocolate in their teeth and all over their hands I'm pretty sure they approve. I mean, it's messy, it's sweet, and mom was trying to keep it from us. It must be good. I wonder if I can get this tactic to work on vegetables?

The third shot is for Paper Mama
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Not Gonna Complain

2011-12-08T07:00:00.004-05:00

Recently we've had really weird weather for this time of year. It's been really warm. If you know me, you know I hate the cold...so I am loving it. I mean, it does make it a little hard to be in the Christmas spirit, but I think that's a job I can handle. Ya know, listening to Christmas music while it's 70 degrees outside.

I said recently that I haven't had any motivation to actually pick up my big girl camera, as opposed to my iPhone, and take a lot of shots this season. I did get a chance to take some pictures the other day while the kiddos were napping though. I spend so many of their naptimes doing things that need to be done, or cleaning up/doing chores that it was nice to just piddle around and forget the list of things I have waiting for me to do.

I've really enjoyed decorating our "new" place this season, chilly temps or not. We actually have a good spot for the tree this year, as opposed to our bedroom like last year. It may be a fake tree, a bit on the Charlie Brown side, but I figured with these two kids (and potentially a baby before time to take down the tree) a tree I need to take care of would wait till next year.

I'm also pretty sure that next Christmas, about the time Baby J could be walking, I'm really gonna appreciate the shatter-proof ornaments we got this year. ;)

The first shot is for YouCapture, the second shot is for Texture Thursday, and third is for This and That
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Foot Notes

2011-12-06T07:00:00.007-05:00

Recently I haven't seen much of them. My feet that is. They have been staying busy, running lots of miles (30 miles last week! At 35 weeks pregnant I am just a little proud of myself. And I'm typically not a "look at me" type of girl. I'm more the "sweating cuz they are looking at me" type of girl.) and also enjoying staying cozy at night by the fireplace that I am truly madly deeply in love with.

Speaking of feet and fireplaces, my feet and theirs have had some fun evenings together lately, cozied up in the house having "picnics" as the hooligans call them by the fireplace. Tirzah thinks because I put a big towel out on the living room floor (we eat dinner and watch a movie) that the actual towel is a picnic. She told me the other night she would go get "the picnic" and came back with a towel.

I think I've created a picnicking monster, and they hardly want to eat at the table anymore. Not like they really eat "at the table" anyway when we eat in the kitchen. Their little feet stand on it, in their chairs, under it, somehow their in the living room/bathroom/kitchen cabinets, etc. Anywhere BUT the table. I turn around for 5 seconds and it's Where the Wild Things Are live in my kitchen. I won't complain too much though. One day those feet will be too big to stand on my table or to want to have a picnic in the living room. So for now I'll just roll my eyes a bit and tell them to get off my table right now just to say I did. ;)

The first shot is for Simplicity, Second is for Sweet Shot, Third is for Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

My Reflexes are Tired.

2011-12-05T07:00:00.004-05:00
I love blogging. I love my kids. I usually love blogging about my kids, too. But recently my motivation to do anything besides sit on my couch and watch movies with my kids is pretty much at zero. I hate feeling like a blog post is a chore, and usually it's not. But at this point in my pregnancy, the exhaustion is starting to take over.

I am even having a hard time picking up my real camera as opposed to just using my iPhone. I really love taking pictures...it's just a reflex almost, but recently my reflexes are, well, tired. And sometimes my camera is so...far...away. (Like, completely across the room, people.) So all this blabbing is just to say please forgive me for this lame blog post, and these pictures that really were taken like a week ago. I'm busy being used as an incubator for what feels like the next 5 years. Ok, probably no longer than 5 weeks...but a week is a year in preggo-time.

So anyway...I will keep plugging away over here on the old blog. But if I disappear occasionally it's not permanent, so don't go too far. (I mean, unless I scared you off which could be likely.) I'm sure I'll be back right after I finish sitting on the couch growing a human. ;)

The second shot is for Monday Rewind
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Traditional

2011-12-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

So I'm not necessarily big on traditions. I mean, I'm not the kind of person who loves change or anything, (I like routines and like to have a plan...not even necessarily big on surprises either) but I don't always stick to the traditional either. But certain traditions I love and look forward to every year, like watching all the Christmas specials that come on TV. The last two nights its been The Grinch and Rudolph.

Much to my husbands dismay, I watch these things every year. Thankfully now the kids will watch them with me, and Billy is free to snicker from the other room. I don't blame him exactly...I realize a 25 year old man should not be expected to be thrilled about watching a cartoon from 40+ years ago. But anyway, like I said, despite my love for certain traditions, there are others that I can do without. Like this year, for example when we decorated for Christmas, we noticed that I used zero red and green. I guess blue and brown are the new red and green?

I'm also the type of person who likes to do things all the way, or not at all. This is a trait that has occasionally gotten me into trouble, but at the same time can be helpful for getting things done. Recently I decided that I wanted to do something fun, something for me, something "non-mommy" before Baby J is born. I have never colored my hair, so I decided I wanted to get some highlights. I also decided, hey, why not pink highlights?

I love the way they turned out, and it was fun to change things up and do something not expected before I fall into the expected chaos and lack of sleep of a new baby, as much as I'm looking forward to it. There is something to be said for many traditions, this entire season of Christmas is full of meaningful traditions based on the Savior that I base my life on. And I think there is also something to be said for change, and for growth, and for using both change and tradition to make us better than when we started.

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,
which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

The first shot is for Paper Mama, Second is for Scripture and a Snapshot
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Till it Hurts

2011-12-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

Some days with my kids I want to pull out my own hair. Other days they literally make me laugh until I'm crying and it hurts. (Actually, they usually make me laugh like that everyday, unfortunately some days I'm laughing at things I probably shouldn't be...like Tirzah saying "damnabbit" instead of "dagnabbit".) If I posted/blogged/tweeted everything funny line out of their little heads I'd probably be more annoying on social media than I already am. But come on, some of that stuff is just too good not to tweet.

Like the other night, I was giving the kids baths. I got them out, and for some reason Merrick decided his hooded towel made him "Superman". (This is new...usually we are Spiderman or Lightning McQueen.) He asked me, in a nonchalant tone, if he could "fly down the stairs" in his towel...just his towel at this point. I said sure. I'm dressing Tizzy, and hear a big crash. Naturally I ignore it, cuz crashes happen frequently around here, ya know? And if you were these kids' mom you would learn to ignore any crash that is not followed by a scream.

Shortly following the crash came "Mom, help! Can't get up!" I peek around the corner and he's laying on his face on the landing, still in his hooded towel. That was funny enough, but he seemed to feel the need to explain why he couldn't get up. He said, "Mom, when kids fall in their towels they can't stand up." I suppose if I was tangled up in a hooded towel I might have a problem getting up too. Thankfully I am not in the habit of flying down the stairs...someone has to be responsible around here. ;)

The first shot is for YouCapture, Second is for Texture Thursday and This or That.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

A Blur

2011-11-29T07:00:00.001-05:00
I know how it goes. Too fast. Especially when there are kiddos involved. Before I know it Christmas will be over for another year, it will be 2012, and there will be 3 instead of just 2 to fill up my day. They'll be going to college and getting married and...let's not go there.

I always say I'm going to savor every moment, and I totally plan on it. It's just hard when this is what every moment of their waking hours looks like...a blur:

But they are my favorite little blurry streaks of energy...and I cannot imagine how boring and stationary life might be without them. So I'll do my best to sit back and enjoy every waking, screaming, laughing moment of this holiday season...for their sake and mine.

The first shot is for Simplicity, Second is for Communal Global,
and third is for Sweet Shot.

From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Holiday Purist

2011-11-28T07:00:00.001-05:00
I'm one of those "holiday purists" who does not like mixing my holidays. I like to celebrate them one at a time. I get kind of confused when I see Christmas stuff up before we've even had Thanksgiving dinner. Along the same lines is when you go to the Target in June to buy a swimsuit and realize they aren't selling those anymore, but are selling winter coats. Makes sense. Um, no.

I mean, to each his own. It's not hurting anything to put up your Christmas decorations in July...I just don't like to have my tree before my turkey, or whatever. I don't like listening to Christmas music until at least 12am the Friday after Thanksgiving. At that point? Bring it on. I am practically Mrs. Clause. I love Christmas. (Everything except Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas is You" song, that makes me want to have reindeer stew. Can't...stand...it.)

There have been years in the past, (years of being married to Billy) where my Christmas spirit was met with a bit of Scrooge-worthy resistance. I understand he's the one who had to go to the shed and get all the glittery, messy, sometimes occasionally cheesy decor out, so I give him a break. This year, though? He came home on his own after work (he closed at the store, so keep in mind it was 11:30pm) and got all the decorations out, and ran to Walmart to get more lights for the tree when we realized some weren't working. I think I hear angels singing Jingle Bells or something.

We had a great time decorating together, in that rare quiet while the kiddos are passed out in their beds. (Especially after the nightmare in Hobby Lobby earlier in the day shopping for a few new decorations with the kids. I assure you, it put Nightmare on Elm Street to shame.) Now that it's officially the Christmas season in my mind, I'm also *fingers crossed* asking Santa for a baby for Christmas. Hoping the fact that we decorated in blue and brown will encourage Baby J to arrive in time to check out the decorations. (I'll be full term the week before Christmas) A girl can hope, right? Otherwise I think by that point I'll probably look a bit like Santa myself, minus the beard.

The first shot is for Macro Monday
The last shot is for Monday Rewind
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Tizzy Lou Who

2011-11-26T07:00:00.005-05:00
I'm so excited that Tirzah finally has enough hair on her sassy little head for doing things like this...which kind of reminds me of Cindy Lou Who:

Her hair, the fluffy, baby fly-away fuzz that is it, is going through a really awkward phase. I want to grow it all out so she can do what she wants with it as she gets older, and so in the process of doing that her bangs are in her eyes 24/7. She can't see where she's going, she rubs food in them, gets angry with them, yells at them, etc. I don't necessarily blame her, it's probably pretty annoying. I haven't had bangs in my eyes in years. So we have to fix her hair most days just to keep from having a huge meltdown.

Well, I fix her hair, but that doesn't exactly mean the sass stops as you can see. She is sassy whether she can see where she is going or not. She just can see who she's throwing punches at when her hair is out of her eyes instead of blind swinging. ;) She's such a mix of diva and tomboy that I don't exactly always know how to handle her. She wants her hair fixed up and pretty but then wants to fight with her brother and gets mad that she's messed it up. She wants her nails painted but before they are dry she's digging in the yard and chips it all off.

I find myself shaking my head at her, but then I realize that she is a lot like I was at that age. Loves pretty things but can't resist getting a little dirt under her nails. She is maybe even sassier than I was. I surely don't remember beating up quite that many boys. ;)

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera, and the second shot is for Paper Mama
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Counting

2011-11-24T11:41:00.001-05:00

Joy's a function of gratitude. And gratitude's a function of perspective.
Counting my gifts changes my perspective - and my LIFE. - Voscamp

So much to be thankful for today, that I don't know where to start.
Wishing everyone a great Thanksgiving!

Check out more shots at Texture Thursday, Shades of Autumn, and This or That.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

I'm a bad cook.

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000-05:00
Over the next week there's going to be lots of time with family, lots of good food, and lots of driving here and there around here. We are having a "family night" tonight at my mom's since almost none of my newly married siblings will be here for the actual Thanksgiving holiday. (Thankfully they will be around for Christmas.) So I'll probably be recruited to spend a lot of time in front of one of these things:

I don't mind helping in the kitchen, really. Ok, I do. I really don't cook much. I like to go places where people cook for me...like restaurants. I should be ashamed of myself, probably, but I'm really not. I think I wouldn't even mind going to a restaurant on Thanksgiving. (Did I just say that? Yes, yes I did.) I cook when I have to, and because of the little people that need to not grow up thinking all food comes from Chick-Fil-A.

I would rather spend the holiday hanging out with said little people, but it's Thanksgiving. So cook we will. We actually celebrate on Wednesday, so we will be microwaving leftovers on Thanksgiving and doing that hanging out/relaxing I was hoping for. Maybe a little sleeping in and all that good stuff...but that part is up to the hooligans of course. ;)

The first shot is for Sweet Shot, and You Capture,
Second is for Communal Global, Third is for Simplicity.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Man Card

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-05:00
No, I don't think I have one of those. Pretty sure when you're pregnant you exempt yourself from any such thing. My hubby was glad to announce however, that he still has his when he got our long-unused fireplace in working order without injuring himself or the house.

I absolutely love a good cozy fire. The smell, the warmth, the crackly noises, the warmth...I already said that one but it's very important to my toes. I was hoping this personal heater/baby belly would keep me warm this winter but I'm noticing that I'm still cold. Come on. So glad that Billy heard my pleas and spent his Saturday afternoon covered in soot and ashes. It hadnt been used in 8 years, so I think he was a little worried about, ya know, burning down the house but so far so good.

The hooligans have mixed reviews of said cozy fire. Tizzy was annoyed that she had to pose her striped socks for a shot, and Merrick helpfully suggested we call the fire trucks. (I explained to him it was ok only when it's in the fireplace. He then tried to throw in more wood. I quickly screamed and scared him and the neighbors to death. Don't think he'll be assisting with that anymore.) Looking forward to lots of coziness this winter. I've never had a fireplace in my house before, so I do believe it'll be making up the 8 years it's had off.

The first shot is for Monday Rewind
Second shot is for Macro Monday
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Preparational Chilling

2011-11-19T07:00:00.001-05:00
As we get closer to the end of this pregnancy with Baby J, we are trying to make the most of the weekends we have off with the other two kiddos. Billy has a great schedule, but doesn't always have a whole weekend off. We realized yesterday that this weekend (which we are going to spend playing outside in the relatively warm weather with the kiddos) may be one of the last full weekends we have off before Baby J's arrival. Maybe not, you never know, but we want to make the most of it.

This fall has flown by, but at the same time the weeks seem to drag as we anxiously await Baby J's arrival. Trying not to rush it, but you know how that goes. Feeling like you're in a holding pattern waiting for what you know is coming and most likely going to turn your world a little upside down for awhile. (3 am feedings, anyone???) Cannot believe that Thanksgiving is happening this coming week...but also glad I'll still be pregnant on this most blessed of face-stuffing holidays. I feel a little more excused to eat for two when, ya know, I'll be 34 weeks pregnant. ;)

Not sure what exactly we have planned for this weekend, other than just some hanging out. But I'm sure it will be lots of the usual fun and craziness. Next week (and the aforementioned holiday) will be busy, but fun...so looking forward to some "laid-back" this weekend. As fun as holidays are, around these parts they tend to be loud and crazy. Are you really surprised? Surely not...;)

Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink, and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life God has given them, and to accept their lot in life. Ecclesiastes 5:18

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera, Second is for Scripture and a Snapshot, third is for Paper Mama.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Maternity Leave

2011-11-17T07:00:00.034-05:00
So technically I won't be getting any such thing as "maternity leave". I have two kids already, who am I kidding, right? I'll be lucky if I get to "leave" to take a shower those first few weeks after Baby J is born, much less a few months off of work.

So when I say maternity leave I'm referring to the fact that I am taking a break from client work until after the baby is born. My camera will strictly be used as a torture device for my own children and various objects out in nature. No really, the hooligans are terribly vain these days and love looking at pictures of themselves. They are getting pretty good at posing, also. They know the drill. ;) J's first word will probably be "cheese".

I did one last session this past weekend with two of my favorite faithful families (don't try saying that three times fast), it was a "double session" I guess you could call it, and we got some pictures of their two kiddos playing together which was fun. Might sound a bit daunting photographing two fast moving kiddos, but if you read this blog you know...that's what I do every day. The belly makes it a bit harder, I'll admit, but it's nothing new to chase a kid or two with my camera.

Their two families are so fun to work with (and no, I'm not just saying that cuz they pay me...I really love working with them) and these two kiddos make my job easy with their cute antics and quick smiles. I've been taking their pictures since before their first birthdays, and it's been fun watching the two of them grow. I appreciate their parents' continued requests for me to photograph them...even in spite of my current bent towards waddling. ;) Great working with you guys, as always!

Check out more Something Fun shots at You Capture
The First shot is for Autumn Photo Challenge and second is for This or That,
Third Shot is for Fabulous Friday and Photo Story Friday,
and last is for Texture Thursday
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Crunchy Goodness

2011-11-15T07:00:00.001-05:00
Yesterday was a perfect fall day. Actually probably too warm for what some would call "perfect", but 70 degrees in mid-November seems pretty perfect to me. The leaves, the sun, the warm air moved around with just a little bit of a breeze stirring up the essence of autumn, and scattering the already fallen piles of color.

Billy was home from work, so we ate at Sonic, I was able to run 4.5 miles after we all slept in a little bit...like I said: perfect. While the kiddos napped I got to sneak outside and take some shots of the crunchy goodness all around our place right now. I was a little worried when we moved "into town" that I wouldn't have as much nature-ish stuff to take pictures of, but this fall has been one of those...so colorful that you can't help but be aware of the artist God is.

As I sit here writing this, I'm overwhelmed by the fullness I'm surrounded by. So thankful that my little family is here under this roof with me, safe and sound and not in need. So many people I know going through so many things, that I feel guilty when I let out my little complaints about a Baby J induced bad night of sleep. I am grateful that he is here to kick me all night so I don't sleep, and grateful for those other two kiddos who wake me up after one of those nights, bright and early yelling for "froot yoops" and waffles.

I know there will be hard days in the future, and there will be moments during this day where I'm not so poetically grateful for said fullness in my life. But I hope that I will remember this post, and remember how blessed I am. I hope I'll remember the warmth of yesterday on days when it's hard to scrounge up a good attitude. I hope I'll remember all this crunchy goodness.

The first shot is for Sweet Shot and second is for Happiness Project,
Third is for Communal Global and last is for Simplicity.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Sailboats in the Tub

2011-11-14T07:00:00.002-05:00
So I am a big fan of taking baths. I think I could live in the bathtub. Especially at this point when everything aches. I probably take a bath almost every day. Most of the time I either wait until the kids are in bed napping, or in bed for the night. Because if I don't wait until they are unconscious this is the kind of thing that happens:

[ Now, keep in mind this was Sunday afternoon and their daddy was home, so I thought I was safe. He is a great dad (and is awesome about giving me a break while he's home) but for some reason they cannot seem to leave me alone, and repeatedly sneak into the bathroom whenever he is otherwise occupied. (I should be grateful for this attachment, I suppose.) ]

I love them dearly, but sometimes you just would like a little peace and quiet. I know, what's that right? I decided yesterday that what I needed to be thankful for in my 30 days of gratitude project was the "sailboats in the bathtub", or the little kiddo trail they leave in my life, that I know I will definitely miss one day. It's hard sometimes, when they are pretending to be Spiderman swinging from the towel rack in the bathroom when I just want to soak by myself in silence, but at the same time I can't help but love every minute of it.

Check out more shots at Monday Rewind. The last shot is for Macro Monday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Slow it Down

2011-11-12T07:00:00.001-05:00
The time is flying by this fall. This weekend is super busy with two photo sessions, a good friend's wedding, and church activities. So before I run out the door and don't come back for days, I'll leave you with this shot and the lyrics to a new favorite song.

The house is dark, but I see clearly
Kettle sings a morning song
The bacons frying, babies crying
I soak up the sights and sounds
Minutes turn to days and I wish that I could slow it down / Lady Antebellum
-->Hear

Ok, and just for laughs...I think she is planning on attending the wedding like this:

The second shot is for Paper Mama, and first is for Paper Heart Camera
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

At Least the Food is Comfortable

2011-11-10T07:00:00.003-05:00
I think Autumn is a very "comfy" season. It's starting to get chilly, so it just makes you want to snuggle up. Sometimes I snuggle up with the kiddos, the hubby, or...food. Recently that comfort food has been peanut butter and banana. And this week we are planning on making our first batch of chili. Nothing says fall quite like some good chili.

This fall we are also "nesting" around here, or I am at least, in preparation for the arrival of Baby J. (Hopefully that will be *fingers crossed* before the end of the year as uncomfortable as I am.) We worked on his nursery, painting and redoing some items we got at local junk stores, and are now painting what will be both the older hooligans bedroom.

I'm fairly certain the two of them moving into a room together will be the straw that breaks the camel's back, or drives me over the cliffs of insanity...however you want to say it. I could be pleasantly surprised (would love to be...) but am trying to set myself up for a large amount of noise and a small amount of sleep when this move happens.

I wish I was spending this cozy season hibernating like a bear, catching up on sleep before we have a newborn in the house. But at this stage in the game (almost 32 weeks!) I am not doing so much sleeping as I am cat napping between trips to the bathroom and the laborious task of attempting to roll over when I wake up with everything aching.

I also realize I spent this entire post talking about being uncomfortable, and food. I really shouldn't complain, since I have had a relatively uneventful and healthy pregnancy...for which I am so grateful. But I guess you can you tell what is on my mind these days: aches and sandwiches. ;) On that note I think it's time for another pb&b.
Check out more Fall shots at You Capture
The First shot is for Autumn Photo Challenge and This or That, and Texture Thursday
Second shot is for Fabulous Friday and Photo Story Friday,
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Part 2

2011-11-08T07:00:00.002-05:00
Merrick recently had his 4th birthday, which was the perfect time to stock up on his latest obsession: the movie Cars and all it's characters. We had the first movie, which we watched until the entire family can quote the movie in our sleep, and various Cars paraphernalia.

For his birthday he got the second installment: Cars 2. We are now well on our way to memorizing this movie as well. (He also got Veggie Tales, which both the kids love. I also need to point out that Tirzah calls it "Wedgie Tales"...so I make sure to have her repeat it constantly for my own entertainment.) He also got several of the characters from the movie on top of his cake, so they drive all over everything anywhere we go. The gym, the shelves at the grocery store, the sidewalk outside, church pews...

Tizzy did surprisingly well being that all of this has been all about Merrick. She tags right along with the Cars frenzy, and likes to assign certain Cars characters names to herself and family members. Recently she told us that Mommy was Sally (who is a Porsche) and Daddy was 'Mater (who is a banged up tow-truck). I thought this was pretty funny, but Billy wasn't quite as amused. I'll take what compliments I can get, ya know. ;)

The first shot is for Sweet Shot and Happiness Project,
Second is for Communal Global and Simplicity,
Third is for Little Somethings.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

30 Days

2011-11-06T07:00:00.004-05:00
Last November I did a photography project called 30 days of Gratitude. (Not everyone makes it a photography project, but that's me...) You may have noticed people facebooking or tweeting about how they are thankful for certain things each day. I wish I was more focused on being thankful all the time, but the month containing Thanksgiving is a good place to start.

There are a lot of things I am thankful for right now. Some of them are simple, like sitting at the kitchen table eating PB&J with my kiddos, or chocolate cake and coffee. And other things are more complex like my salvation, the love of my little family, healthy kids and paid bills. So many things I don't deserve and take for granted that I want to start noticing. What are some things you are thankful for today?

"Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon His name; make known his deeds among the peoples!" :: Psalm 105.1

Check out more shots at Scripture and a Snapshot, Macro Monday, and Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Bump not Frump

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000-04:00
The other day I went shopping for a few things to fit this bump. Not an easy task if you want to stay away from the typical maternity wear, which I'm allergic to. ;) I am pretty particular about my clothes, and normally maternity fashion is short on the...fashion. But thankfully I've been able to find a lot of nonmaternity clothes that will work...which also saves money since I can wear them after Baby J is here, too.

Billy and the kids went with me, which was part fun/part insanity. The kids get pretty bored pretty quick while shopping. But Billy is awesome witih them, and with giving me a chance to browse while keeping them entertained. As you can tell, they not only entertained themselves but all of H&M. I'd say it was a pretty successful shopping trip, since we all lived to tell about it and I actually have a few things to wear for the next 9 weeks.

The First shot is for Autumn Photo Challenge, Life Rearranged, and Imperfections.
Second shot is for Fabulous Friday and Photo Story Friday, and This or That.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Sugar Rush

2011-11-02T07:00:00.001-04:00
This year was a lot of fun trick-or-treating with the hooligans. They were both old enough to have a little more fun, and it's always fun to see your kiddos having a good time. And picking out of their candy bags after they go to sleep never hurts either. Although I did pay dearly for that with a violent candy-induced kicking spree on the part of Baby J. Wow...kiddo meant business.

We took the hooligans (who were Spiderman and "Cimbrella", aka Cinderella) to a local children's museum for the candy harvest. It was fun since there were other things to do besides just grab the goods. We got some ice cream, painted some pumpkins (one of which is sitting on the table looking at me with 4 eyeballs...Tizzy went a little crazy with the eyeballs. Kinda creepy.), played on a playground, and climbed on some dinosaurs.

Afterwards we had some dinner, which was a decidedly rambunctious event where Spiderman spent more time looking at himself in the windows of the restaurant than eating, and Cinderella refused to eat anything but french fries. (She's apparently a vegetarian these days, and nuggets must be spared at all costs.) Oh well, that's what daddy is for: to finish the kid's leftovers. Mommy's, however, are much better at finishing leftover candy.

Check out more Halloween shots at YouCapture,

The first shot is for Show Off, and last is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Up with the Birds

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

The birds they sang, break of day
Start again I hear them say
It's so hard to just walk away

The birds they sang, all a choir
Start again, a little higher
It's a spark in a sea of grey

The sky is blue, dream that lie til it's true
Then taking back the punch I threw
My arms turn wings oh those clumsy things
Send me up to that wonderful world
And then I'm up with the birds / Coldplay

The first shot is for Sweet Shot and Happiness Project, Second is for Communal Global,
Third is for Little Somethings.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Birthday Gift

2011-10-30T07:00:00.010-04:00
So as I type this, as I always do with my kids birthday posts, I sit here here and cry. I can't ever believe how blessed I am (and yes, sometimes insane) being their mommy. I can't believe I'm old enough to be a mommy, much less to 3 kiddos. It seems like just yesterday I had a crush on their daddy and wondered if we would maybe one day end up together. ;)

But here I am, with a four year old son. He sometimes says and does things that seem so...old. So not a baby anymore. I mean, wasn't I just wondering when the heck you were gonna sleep through the night? Or wishing you would finally say "mama" instead of "tractor"? Wasn't I just in labor wishing you would get out already after what was surely the longest day of my life, but also surely one of the most fabulous.

Where have the last four years gone? Down in wonderful history. It's flown by, but at the same time I know you've been a part of my heart for much longer than four years. I was made to be your mama. I was chosen by God to carry you around in my belly, feeling you kick like the maniac you are, give you a name, and tell you what a gift you are. I can't imagine (I know I always say this, but it's so true) my life before Merrick Wilder.

I am not by any means the mother I'd like to be. I screw up...uh, a whole freaking lot. And I want to be a better person because you deserve it. I think God knew how much I would see myself through His eyes, when I look at you. And that's one of the many reasons He picked me to be yours. So I would know how loved I am, so I in turn can tell you how desperately completely insanely loved YOU are. And even though it's your birthday and you think you're the one getting gifts? I know who got the real gift. I love you, Merrick Wilder! Happy 4th birthday!

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera, second shot is for Macro Monday,
third is for Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Swagger Wagon

2011-10-28T07:00:00.002-04:00
I am not the type of person to knock the minivan. Make fun if you will, but I have been dying to have one to call my very own ever since I realized that no matter how far up I scoot my seat, my children will STILL kick me while riding in the trusty ol' Caliber. Also, the trunk was the size of a kitchen cabinet. So, when we realized number 3 is due in less than 75 days, we traded ol' trusty in for this:

Yes, go ahead and laugh, all you tough guys out there who think you're too cool for a swagger wagon. You have obviously never been kicked in your back for hours, had no where to put your elbows and your drink at the same time, or tried to unload groceries while simultaneously carrying a 2 year old, tripping over a 3 year old, and also growing a person in your belly. It's not as easy as us mom's make it look.

I mean, this van is the perfect gentlemen...it opens the door for me. Heaven, I tell you. And there are compartments that open up in the floor big enough to put both my children in. (Or silly boys who like to make fun of minivans.) I mean, not that I considered that or anything. The trunk holds the stroller, and all of said groceries, not just one or the other. (Heaven forbid I forget to remove the stroller before when I went grocery shopping in the Caliber...cuz that meant groceries all over the car, on my head, in the kid's laps, etc.)

So go ahead and giggle, roll your eyes and swear you'd never drive one of these. I'm sure there was a time when I said the same thing. But then I realized that people used to laugh at stuff like the world being round, too. And then I had these kids...and since I wouldn't trade them for the world I think this is the perfect way to get where we're going.

Check out more iPhone shots at Life Rearranged, and Imperfections.
The second shot is for Fabulous Friday and Skinned Knees Blog.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Yard Ornament

2011-10-27T07:00:00.002-04:00
We live in a townhouse, which technically doesn't have much of a big yard all to itself. The back yard is fenced in, which is awesome, so it does the trick. And we live on an end unit that backs up to another development, so we have "extra" yard that isn't technically ours, but we get to use it and, ya know, not play in the parking lot.

I do miss our big trees, which were really colorful in the fall. But I'm hoping the ones we do have will give me a little somethin' somethin' to keep my camera happy. For right now the leaves here have just started changing, so I hope the leaf pictures won't have worn out their welcome just yet...y'all might have to put up with them for a little bit.

I happened to notice this little guy when I was outside waddling around. I think he's pretty cute. There were lots of "wild life" out yesterday afternoon. It was a gorgeous day and pretty warm for this time of year. I think the birds (especially the ones who like to smack into our living room window because they built a nest in the tree right beside it) thought it was Spring. Sorry guys, I feel your pain. Let's all migrate, k?

I'm not sure what squirrels do during the winter. But I'm sure the kids and I wouldn't mind if they stuck around. They're pretty cute and keep the kids entertained for about .5 seconds...which is longer than a lot of things. ;)

The second shot is for YouCapture.
The first shot is for Show Off and Autumn Photo Challenge, and last is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Family Fotography in the Fall

2011-10-25T07:00:00.001-04:00
Yeah that's not how you really spell it, but I was just carried away. Speaking of photography, I had a family session with a great bunch from the church my hubby used to work at. They were great to work with, just hanging out together and enjoying the awesome fall weather we had last weekend. I managed to shoot around this giant belly I am sporting, and they didn't seem to mind my waddling around the entire session.

I usually drag my hubby along on sessions just for an assistant and an extra hand, but he was tied up at work so I flew solo this time. And speaking of solo, I also managed to knock the driver's side mirror off of our car during my travels, and we now have just the passenger side mirror. (This really has nothing to do with the session, except for the fact that I nearly caused 100 accidents going to and from the shoot. You don't realize how much you use those things until they're gone. Thankfully a replacement is on the way!)

This is one of the prettiest times of the year to do sessions (Spring is probably my fav, though), and I'm glad that I was able to do it before I become completely incapable of maneuvering around this child taking up my abdomen. I have two more sessions and a wedding before I completely call it quits until after Baby J's arrival. I must say I am looking forward to the break a bit...if for no other reason than I am dying of exhaustion, y'all. I think I need a nap just because I wrote this post. Or a cookie, that might do.

Thanks, Sinclair family, for letting me (and Baby J) take your good-looking family's pictures! It was fun! :)

The first shot is for Simplicity and Little Somethings, second for Communal Global, and Third for Happiness Project.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Awkward Position

2011-10-23T07:00:00.002-04:00

Sunday mornings are my favorite. I love that we go to church Sunday afternoon, so we can sleep in and just chill. We can eat Froot Loops and drink coffee (Yes, the kids drink sips of my coffee. Not sure what is with them, I hated coffee at that age. Billy says it's because I make my coffee so sweet what kid wouldn't want to drink it?) We can sit on the couch and rest. Rest is pretty awesome.

I had a photo shoot yesterday, so am even more glad for that rest today. Sessions are getting harder and harder with Baby J in the way. I thought he would make a handy camera rest, but instead he kind of just makes impossible to get into any position where I might get an interesting angle. I'm sure I looked pretty funny taking that first shot of the kiddos eating their Froot Loop brunch.

At least they don't pay any attention to mommy and her camera. So for now, me and this baby belly are going to go get into a more comfortable position on the couch. And probably not get up for quite awhile. Hope y'all have a great Sunday!

:: Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy - Exodus 20.8 ::

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera, Second is for Scripture and a Snapshot and Macro Monday,
third is for Monday Rewind
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Familiar Faces

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000-04:00
Doesn't really matter how much I look at them, how familiar they are...I still can't get quite enough of these faces. It's funny to think that there was a time when I knew them, but didn't quite know what their faces would look like. Then you see them for the first time and you feel so familiar, but yet that little face isn't something you've ever seen before.

We are at that stage with Baby J. Feeling like we know him so well (his constant kicking is my constant companion) but yet having no idea what his face will look like exactly. (We had a little peak on an ultrasound, but it's not quite the same thing, ya know?) I am trying not to be over being pregnant (I could still have 11 weeks of this...calm down woman) and rush things by, but at the same time I cannot wait to have his face become familiar, and be overphotographed just like these other two faces that I can't imagine not seeing every day.

The last shot is for The Paper Mama, Fabulous Friday, and Give Me Your Best Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Man of Many Talents

2011-10-20T07:00:00.001-04:00
Spiderman of many talents, that is. He can save a city from crime and mow the backyard all in a day's work. Not to mention scare a sister into behaving. Merrick has many obsessions. He's an obsessive type of kiddo. Sometimes it drives me a bit crazy, the way he gets hung up on things. But at the same time he is amazingly persistent, notices details and doesn't forget a thing. (Looking at the bright side, here)

I've occasionally been given the third degree for deviations from the norm such as taking a different route home from the gym. "Mom, where ARE you going? This is not the way home." But at least ONE of us won't get lost, right? Even if, in my defense, I was just trying to go drop off some bills at a mailbox, not confuse my children.

He loves all things Spiderman right now, and this will be his Halloween costume since nothing else will be tolerated. I'm afraid I might be shot with his web if I didn't comply, as baby sister has been in the past. For a long time he wouldn't even try to "shoot a web" like Spiderman because he couldn't hold his fingers right. Perfectionist much? I have NO idea where he gets that from. Ahem.

I'm not sure what started the Spiderman fetish, but I guess it could be worse. Spongebob, for example, isn't nearly as talented I'm sure. And it would be hard to scare little sisters by just laughing obnoxiously. So makes sense I guess.

Check out more Fall shots at YouCapture.
The first shot is for Show Off, and last is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Bully Barron

2011-10-18T07:00:00.002-04:00
No, that's not the baby's name. I'm referring to my daughter. She is turning into quite a bully these days. People always fuss at me when I say that about her, but when you catch sight of your daughter punching little boys in the face what else can you do?

Granted she has a very aggressive older brother who likes to wrestle, so I understand self defense has been an issue. I wouldn't want her being a push over either. I guess honestly I'm proud of the way she sticks up for herself...I just wish she would do it a little less violently?

She can be very girly at times too...refusing to leave the house without ponytails in her hair. She loves to dress up in her frilly dress up skirt and "frolic" around the house. But try to give her a hug and kiss and you risk losing a tooth. (which is what the boy I caught her punching was doing...trying to hug her)

Her father is thrilled with this, and is thinking he'll have less boys to scare away in the future if she keeps this up. I guess from that angle her bullying isn't so bad either. I wont worry about her nearly as much at 16 if she continues to perfect that left hook on would-be kiss stealers.

The first shot is for Simplicity, second for Communal Global, Third for Happiness Project
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Veins of Gold

2011-10-16T07:00:00.001-04:00

It is in men as in soils where sometimes there is a vein of gold which the owner knows not.
/ Jonathan Swift

Sometimes, and I know this is the case with anyone who is breathing, I don't always feel like people see me. I don't always feel understood or appreciated simply as I am. Often there are expectations I can't live up to, things I am supposed to do and I don't, things I say no to that people may not understand.

This isn't a pity party. I'm learning that I am seen, by the One who really matters. It's a good thing that others don't always see or understand. Because it forces me to go where there is understanding, where I should be going for that acceptance I crave to begin with. All my flaws, all my failures, and also all my veins of gold are seen. The gifts I've been given that I don't always know how to use the right way, that I may not even know exist. He sees.

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart... Jeremiah 1:5

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera, Second is for Scripture and a Snapshot and Macro Monday,
third is for Monday Rewind
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Eggshells

2011-10-14T07:00:00.002-04:00
I'm no baker. I do try, hard...but I'm so much better at just eating things other people bake. I'm not sure what's so hard about it, but it's kind of like plants...I just can't seem to get it quite right. Maybe it's the fact that I just like things quick and simple, and a lot of times baking seems to require a lot of ingredients and steps. I get bored...fast.

Whenever I do bake *ahem, funfetti from a box, anyone?* the kids love to "help". If they find out I've made a cake without them they get rather perturbed that they weren't involved in the process. Their favorite part? Cracking the eggs. You can imagine, my two hooligans, cracking eggs. Yes, it's as ridiculous as you're imagining. The eggs either don't get cracked, or they are completely obliterated.

They are so cute trying to crack the eggs though that I always let them. I just have to make sure I get the eggshells out of the batter before we stir it up. Stirring happens to be their next favorite thing. They don't really do much stirring...they just kind of stick spoons/whisks into the batter and slop it onto themselves and the counter. But still...it's cute and they think they're helping.

This particular cake they were allowed to take "bites" of the batter. (Mother of the year right here, I'm sure...letting my kids eat raw eggs. Shhh...) I'm afraid they might have a new favorite part of making cakes. But if I'm honest, eating the batter out of the bowl is probably half the reason I even make cakes myself.

The first shot is for Better than Best, Second is for Fabulous Friday,
and the last shot is for Paper Mama.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Earn Your Tots

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000-04:00
Yesterday I had to go and do the dreaded glucose tolerance testing for gestational diabetes. If I'm honest, the drink they give you isn't that bad...I think the bad part is worrying/wondering if I actually have GD.

I have seen how diabetics have to eat. Guys, it makes me hurt. I don't know how they do it. They are some tough people. I know you do what you gotta do, and if I have it I'll suck it up and deal, but ohmuhword I really hope not. After I took my test (Billy was off and stayed home with the hooligans) we went the the Y where I got in my 6 miles, and then we went to Sonic.

I'm currently addicted to Sonic, but it does make me feel slightly better about a cheeseburger, tots, and slushy if I've gotten a good run in. Also I figured I should eat all the crappy food I want today in case tomorrow I get a phone call saying I failed a very important test.

Judging from the scared look on his face when I mentioned what would happen if I fail this test (and go on to fail the 3hr you take if you fail the 1hr) I think Billy is hoping I pass too. ;)

The first shot is for Show Off, and the last shot is for Texture Thursday.
Check out more iPhone shots at Perfect Imperfections.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Reminded

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000-04:00
I don't like how sometimes I feel like seasons/holidays are skipped over. I know that stores want to sell things, makes sense, but I walked into Target yesterday and there was Christmas Trees on display. Now I love Christmas, but um, it's October. I haven't even digested (or received) my Halloween candy yet.

Like I said, I know stores need to sell things, and people like to shop ahead of time. I am not one of those people...I put off Christmas shopping because of the fact that I am constantly broke and it's physically impossible to buy presents. And I usually refuse to use my credit card unless I have a baby, and the accompanying medical bills that come with said baby, or someone is dying.

I guess I want to spend a little more time enjoying the season I'm in, as opposed to the one coming. I need to remember this in general, and not just when it comes to holidays. Like for instance, wishing that Baby J was here already instead of enjoying having him so close to me for this short period of time.

Yeah yeah, my back hurts and I can't breathe, sleeping just plain doesn't happen (which is oh-so-sad because I adore sleeping and when I don't sleep I'm like a grizzly) but this time will only be a few weeks of his life. Soon he'll be running around, growing up and away from me. I need to just chill and be thankful for this time. Same with whatever I may be experiencing...like the other two hooligans' new phase of sibling rivalry. I guess it's convenient at a time when I need to be learning this, that the word Thanks is so visible.

The first shot is for Simplicity, the Second is for Communal Global, and third is for Happiness Project.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Family Friendly

2011-10-10T07:00:00.002-04:00
Saturday we went to the park with the hooligans, my sisters ("the aunties") and my parents. This kind of thing rarely happens...someone is always gone or we are usually just hanging out at my parents' house when we all get together.

The kids had a great time. It's always nice to have a little break from being their only source of entertainment, and the only referee when they are fighting. I was able to just take some "for fun" shots while everyone was playing. That hasn't happened in awhile.

It was nice to just wander with my camera and kind of get lost in what I was seeing, and all the beginnings of fall around me. That hasn't happened as much recently with all the client work I'd been doing.

Slowing down is something I'm set on this fall. I want to take time for the kids, for Billy and I, for just breathing a little bit. It's not always popular, but I think saying no and protecting sanity is a good idea sometimes. Especially as a third hooligan is about to make life even busier...and there will be a third person in my life who I'm sure will be naturally good at saying "no". ;)

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera,
the second is for Scripture and a Snapshot,
and third is for Monday Rewind.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

In the Details

2011-10-08T07:00:00.002-04:00
I love Billy's days off. Usually we all sleep late (the kids are pretty good about doing that if we put them in bed a bit later than usual), sit around watching PBS and drinking coffee, and then head off to the gym. The kids get some good play time with their friends, and I get a good run in. (It's not a good day if I don't get my run...heaven help us when BabyB3 finally makes me stop.)

Then a lot of times we head off to Sonic. It's our current food habit. Slushies and tots are in demand over here. It's conveniently located right next to my favorite junk/antique store in our area. We love to go there and browse around for stuff for the house. (Their stuff changes really frequently so there's always something new.) This last time we went we found some stuff for BabyB3's nursery that we've been working on. Who, as you can see, will have the initials J.H.B.

I'm pretty excited about the stuff we got, and the fact that we've finally settled on a name. Billy had settled on it about a month ago, but I was being a commitment phobic even though I love it. I did this with our other two hooligans...a name is such a big decision, I always am a bit scared to say this is it, even when it feels just right. This one feels just right, and I already think of him in my head as...you know, J.

Another little detail about this name is that Billy came up with the first name, and I just contributed the middle name this time. (I picked out the other kiddos' names.) I know some couples fight over names and have to hash out a compromise...we thankfully have never had to do that. We are a good name-picking machine in my opinion. My mom would probably disagree, as she has been known to cringe at the names I pick, but she always gets used to them.

I think we're going to keep the name (other than the initials) under wraps until his birthday. I've never done that before, and am terrible about keeping secrets of this nature. (This is why I could never not find out the gender. The suspense would drive me crazy.) So we'll see if I can actually follow through with that. The little details of the nursery, and naming BabyB3, are falling into place. I can't wait for that last detail of finally seeing his handsome face. :)

The last shot is for The Paper Mama.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

His

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000-04:00
We have recently started piddling, painting, and Pinteresting for BabyB3's nursery. Yes, I believe Pinteresting is a word. And I'm grouchy and pregnant so don't correct me if I'm wrong. ;) I've never really done that whole nesting, up-to-my-ears in pastel colored ruffly shenanigans that kiddo will just poop on anyway. Tirzah slept in the living room until she was almost 2 for goodness sakes and she's fine. Well, she's normal. Ok, nevermind.

We did decorate a bit with Babies R Us paraphernalia that all matched for Merrick, and at the time we loved it. And not to knock nursery decorating (cuz it's fun to dream and set up baby's room) but most of it (safari print diaper holder???) just went unused. So this time around I'm skipping cliche monkeys and sailboats and going for something a little different. (Why would that surprise anyone?)

We are painting BabyB3's room a metallic silver, with bright blue accents (like dresser drawers, frames for the walls, etc). Silver metallic is redundant, yes, but it's shiny paint so I felt the need to use the word metallic, ok? (Like I said...no arguing.) I saw it in someone's dream bathroom on Pinterest and decided that hey, a nursery is pretty much a bathroom for a person in tiny diapers...why not?

I'm pretty excited about how it looks so far. The walls are almost done and we are going to start painting the dresser and getting some stuff on the very bare walls. I'm also excited i haven't had to lift a finger yet (except the one using the mouse finding cool stuff on Pinterest) since Billy said 'no painting, you're pregnant'. For once I said, 'yes sir'. Can't wait till BabyB3 is taking up residence in his nursery instead of my belly.

The first shot is for Texture Thursday, and the second is for Show Off.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Don't Drink the Kool-Aid...

2011-10-04T07:00:00.000-04:00
...Deep fry it. Growing up I hated Kool-Aid. No one ever told me you could fry it and put powdered sugar on it though. But at the State Fair, anything that's not tied down or talking can and will be fried and covered in powdered sugar. THAT I can handle. And at the State Fair last Saturday we had our first taste of fried Kool-Aid and fried Twinkie. We approve.

I don't remember ever going to the state fair as a kid. (I'm sure mom will call and yell at me that she DID take me to the fair I just forgot. Sorry mom.) But we decided to take the hooligans this past weekend. So glad we did. There were some moments of "what are we doing and what is wrong with these kids" but it was one of my favorite family days pretty much...ever.

We rode flying elephants and cars. (Well, one of us rode cars. One was too short but made sure to let us know she had the lungs to handle it.) We saw a lot of farm animals (and farm people...). We walked around and ate some good grease formerly-known-as-food. We ate ice cream and candy apples and will probably regret it later at the dentist.

We made lots of fun memories and left feeling exhausted, sore-footed and happy. Everyone slept late Sunday as a result, which made my hanging around taking pictures of the lights after dark seem like not such a bad idea. We laid around that following morning drinking coffee and working on BabyB3's nursery. I think I could stand a few more weekends like that. I could definitely stand another fried twinkie.

The the first shot is for Communal Global, second is for The Happiness Project,
and last is for Simplicity.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Small

2011-10-02T23:00:00.001-04:00
There is something about the crisp fall air, the simple clear beauty of the expanse of blue overhead, my kids holding my hands and hearing them call me "mama", that tugs at my heart and reminds me from where all these things come.

Standing at the fair this past weekend surrounded by the busy happy crowd, holding hands with my favorite little people and feeling the enthusiastic kicking of the son I've yet to meet, I am reminded of my smallness. And this reminder practically knocks me over with gratitude.

Check out more shots at Scripture and a Snapshot and Paper Heart Camera.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

What?

2011-10-01T07:00:00.000-04:00
You don't sit around in costume all day? Well, we do. Or they do, I should say. They call them "dresses" though...no matter how many times I tell Merrick what he's wearing is not a dress. Oh well. Pick your battles, people.

The only problem with this is the fact that Scarlet O'Hara and Spiderman cannot seem to coexist peacefully. Miss O'Hara is deathly afraid of Spiderman when his mask is on, even though she likes to pretend she is ferocious. Spiderman loves this. A little too much.

He takes menacing slow steps after her and it's all over. Shrieking like you've never heard. Usually this ends in Spiderman having to be de-costumed. But by this point usually Scarlet has had one too many meltdowns from tripping over her too-long skirts. (And yes, I've tried to fix it. She doesn't want it fixed, she just wants to have a little drama in her life.)

Which I guess if tripping over a skirt and scaring a sister is all the drama in my life, I should probably be glad. And I am. Nothing to call Superman, Batman, or Captain America about. Except maybe breaking up their latest wrestling match. Good luck, boys.

The last shot is for The Paper Mama.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Cookie Monsters

2011-09-29T07:00:00.000-04:00
I don't know what it is about hormones, but they can make a person do some crazy things. Or make a person ask her husband to go out at an unreasonable hour to buy crazy things. Yes, I am THAT pregnant girl.

With all three pregnancies my hubby has been enslaved to my ridiculous cravings. Thank goodness he's a nice guy or we may have had serious marital issues over this. Speaking of cravings, the last few days all I could think about was Lofthouse cookies. I had to have them. And I'm not telling how many I've had since I got them.

Since Billy was at work, me and the kids made the trip to the store. Of course I realized this meant I would have to share the goods, but I guess I can give up two of the cookies if I must. Sure enough, the kids spotted them before I even had them in the cart. We were walking into the bakery and they practically smelled them.

"Mom, can WE have a cookie?!" was all I heard until after baths and dinner. (Which by the way, was totally the wrong order. Baths need to come AFTER the cookie next time. WhataMESS.

But they thoroughly destroyed, I mean enjoyed them, so everyone was happy. Including the 3rd hooligan who kicked the sanity out of me after all that sugar. Forget orange juice if you need a good kick count. Have a Lofthouse cookie. Just not one of mine.

Check out more "green" shots at YouCapture.
The first shot is also for Texture Thursday and Show off Your Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

You know...THAT kid.

2011-09-27T07:00:00.000-04:00
I haven't ever been much of a playground goer with the hooligans. Not that we don't like playgrounds, we just usually do the "go out in the yard and play" thing. But lately, with so many cool playground nearby, we've kind of been getting into it.

I am not a social butterfly by any means, and usually I tend to keep to myself unless I know people pretty well. Kids don't really give you that option. At the playground it always surprises me how fast my kids "make friends" and force you to talk to said friend's mom. (They did not get this trait from me, I take light-years to make friends, but I'm glad they're like this.)

And as glad as I am for their friendliness...it seems like there is always that ONE kid on the playground who is just downright obnoxious. You wish their mom would decide time's up. They whine, they're super bossy, they keep calling your kid Dillon and Martin when he repeatedly says his name is Merrick. (Okok I KNOW that's a hard name...but Martin? Come on.) You are thinking "wow my kids are pretty awesome compared to Gladys or whatever her name is", and then? You meet Gladys' mom.

And then it all makes sense. Oh, that's why Gladys is miss bossy britches, or that's why Gladys won't.stop.talking. I'm not saying everyone who likes to talk is annoying AT ALL...but you guys know the one. Today I met that mom. I just wanted to play with my kids but instead had to hear all about Gladys. For two hours. I feel like I gave birth to Gladys I know so much about her.

I'm sure she's a great kid, and I'm definitely sure (especially in my hormonal state) that I need more patience. But I was so glad when relief (in the form of someone else's mom who needed to hear all about Gladys) showed up. And by the time we left I totally recognized that glazed over look in her eye. ;)

The first shot is for Sweet Shot, last shot is for Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Seasonal

2011-09-26T07:00:00.000-04:00
It's the time when the leaves start changing, when evenings and mornings are cool and fresh, when football is on everyone's mind, and people other than myself drink pumpkin spice latte's from Starbucks. There is something really cozy about Autumn. The smells and colors are all so festive. Summer will always be my favorite season, but something about Fall is pretty enticing. It contains some pretty delicious holidays as well.

Seasons are kind of like people, different and interesting in their own way. (Winter would be someone that I don't get along with, if it was a person.) A few of my favorite things about this season are Halloween, football, and the changes in the leaves...which are always great at keeping me busy with the camera. My family can have a brief break. What are some of your favorite things about this season?

Check out more shots at Monday Musings, My Perspective, and Macro Monday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Sibling Rivalry

2011-09-24T07:00:00.000-04:00
Siblings..such an interesting thing. I had five of them growing up. Four sisters and a brother, of which I am the oldest. My two kiddos will soon be three, and I'm interested to see how the dynamics and interactions around here may change when their baby brother is more physically a part of our daily lives.

We are excited about there being three, but realize that things will now go from man to man defense to zone defense. I'm hoping that these two welcome their little brother into the family, and there's not a lot of jealousy or attempts at wrestling with their tiny new sibling. These two do love a good wrestle. They love a good fight in general. I'm hoping this is something that we work out as they get older. I can't imagine it's a good idea for 30 year old siblings to body slam each other.

While they may fight, at the same time they are the only ones who are allowed to pick on each other. Merrick will defend Tizzy, and vice versa, in the event that someone tries to take over their role as sole-agitator of each other. It's a job they take very seriously. No one better mess with my sister (or brother) except for me. This I don't mind so much. I will be glad, though, when we can get through a day where they find something to agree on besides...nothing.

The first shot is for The Paper Mama.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Framed

2011-09-22T07:00:00.000-04:00
We have this HUGE wall in our house in the loving room. I love it, because it means a really high ceiling and skylights. But at first I wasn't sure what to do with all that empty space. I was a bit overwhelmed.

Finally I put up some tapestries, and after four+ months of living here we are finally getting around to putting up some pictures I had printed. Very LARGE pictures.

I'm obsessed with color, so I was excited to get some colorful shots I took actually up and on the wall somewhere. It was fun to use some of my work (that sounds so funny to me) as wall art. Made me feel silly and important all at the same time. I guess I don't always, or ever, take myself but so seriously. ;)

We sold some items on craigslist (you know, various organs and a child) to finally get them into some frames.. Frames (especially industrial-sized bad boys like the ones I wanted cost about that much.

I'm excited with the way it turned out, and excited that I had a part in what's in the frames instead of just buying it somewhere. My hubs was probably not too excited about hanging the huge frames, but he done good. ;)

Check out more Industrial shots at YouCapture.
The first shot is for Show off Your Shot, and the last shot is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

One of Those Families

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

Every once in awhile you meet one of those families. (No, not those crazy families who make you wonder how that much crazy ended up in one place.) Those families who are just so nice and so genuinely caring that they make you wonder how they do it.

This family is one of those families. (And they'll be the first to tell you they are who they are because they love God and each other.) I love my family, but I'm not sure we could pull of a session this long (about an hour and a half of shooting, including the two little guys who were fabulously behaved) without someone losing an eye, or a head for that matter. They made my job really easy.

I am so glad I got to work with them. I've known them since I was a kid, and am flattered that they asked me to capture their group. They made me feel more like part of the family than the photographer. I told them, totally truthfully, that I have had sessions with three people that were more stressful than this big group of 11. No chasing people or yelling "hey can you pleeease look at the camera", and "can so-in-so please remove their hands from around so-in-so's neck"? I hope me and my little family are a lot like this when we grow up.

The first shot is for Communal Global, second is for Leigh vs. Laundry, and third is for Sweet Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Great Expectations

2011-09-19T07:00:00.000-04:00
Over the weekend I did a session with one of my husbands former youth students. It was her senior portraits...but I find myself remembering when I used to babysit her. Can't believe how grown up she is...applying to colleges and going to Governor's School.

As I was uploading some of her previews to Flickr, (I always get excited after a session and can't contain myself, and have to put up a few previews.) and I found myself googling graduation-ish quotes. I came across this one: Don't live down to expectations. Go out there and do something remarkable. / Wendy Wasserstein

Graduating or not, I love this quote. I mean, we all carry around so many expectations, so many things people want from us, for us...even things people want for us that we don't want. It reminded me how easy it is to lose sight of that tugging we so often feel deep down in our hearts. That I know what I should be doing, I know what I love, I know what I'm here for kind of feeling.
So while it may sound like I'm giving myself a commencement speech or something, and I don't like to be cheesy, I really was glad to be reminded of this. Kind of freeing to remember that the only expectations that really matter are the ones between God and me. I don't have to impress anyone with my skills, chances are I may not be doing exactly what they think I should be doing anyway. I just need to impress one Person. And I hope that this girl, with her whole life ahead of her, realizes this even now. And I hope it gives her the freedom to find the expectations that really matter.

The second shot is for Paper Heart Camera
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Everything You Do

2011-09-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

You're picking up toys on the living room floor for the 15th time today
Matching up socks and sweeping up lost cheerios that got away

You put a baby on your hip and color on your lips and head out the door
And while I may not know you, I bet I know you wonder sometimes does it matter at all
Well let me remind you it all matters...

Do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace

With every move that you make, and every little thing you do.
- Everything You Do by Stephen Curtis Chapman -

(First, sorry for the kind of lousy iPhone pics, but things have been crazy...so that's all I got.) Heard this song on the radio the other day, and I feel like it was speaking straight to me. I mean, some days as a SAHM you feel kind of...invisible maybe? Just like a dispenser of cereal and juice, and a diaper changing station. But it was a nice reminder that what I spend my days doing is not going unnoticed. And these little people who are asking for all those cheerios and juice (and needing all those diapers changed) are the most important gifts I've been given.

The last shot is for The Paper Mama
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Apples and Trees

2011-09-15T07:00:00.000-04:00
They always say "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree". I'm not sure who they are, but I think they are right for the most part. Well, some kids don't turn out anything like their parents, but for the most part, I think we've all had that oh dear heavens I'm becoming my mother moment. It can be pretty scary, depending on who your mother is I suppose.

I think in terms of eating habits, my kids are probably fitting nicely into this little saying. I try so stinkin hard to eat healthy and take good care of myself and my kiddos, but guys, there is sugar and carbs out there to be eaten. It's a good thing I love running nearly as much as I love sweets. (This habit, I know I inherited from my own mother. The woman lives on M&M's, Lance Crackers, and Dr. Pepper...good thing she has good genes. The sweet tooth in our family is a beast.)

So I try, like I said, to eat right. And I do a lot of the times. But my kids? They see something green and ask me in somewhat of a panic where the Cheez-its are, or if they can have a cookie, or maybe some chocolate milk...please? I'm working on all of our eating habits. Not because weight is an issue in our family...obviously it's not. But because I want them to feel good and healthy and not struggle with my awful habits as they get older, and that sweet tooth comes back to bite us in the behind. The behind that just might get bigger once the ol' metabolism takes a nose dive. ;)

So, all this speaking of apples...I fed them apples with lunch yesterday. Tirzah, as you can see, wasn't very impressed. I think she used the words "is yucky, mommy". Merrick did ok...but left quite a few on the plate. Obviously I have my work cut out for me. I think I may need some ice cream...

Check out more shots at You Capture.
The first shot is for Live Every Moment, second is for Fabulous Friday,
and the last shot is for Texture Thursday and Show off Your Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

The Everyday

2011-09-13T07:30:00.000-04:00
Just wanted to take a second to document the everyday. Nothing hilarious, or out of the ordinary, or terribly exciting happened yesterday. (I did buy candy corn, which was pretty exciting, but I didn't figure that was a blog post anyone but me would want to read.)

Yesterday we just hung out, ran errands, ran at the gym (well, I ran, they played with a hamster named Charlie) got eaten by the mosquitoes (who I wish would die) out in the backyard while we played after dinner. Watched a little TV and snuggled before bed.

Like I said, nothing too exciting. But just wanted to share these shots of my kiddos being themselves and having a great time doing it. I'm so thankful for their, um, zestful? personalities. They are so lively and silly and make me laugh. Even though yesterday was just everyday stuff, that's still my favorite kind of day.

The first shot is for Sweet Shot
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

10

2011-09-12T07:00:00.000-04:00
It's hard to believe it's been 10 years since that day. I remember (just as you probably do) exactly where I was when I first heard what had happened. I was sitting in Speech class, a freshman in college who was still a bit homesick. This made me realize, even though I was wanting to be home, how blessed I was that everyone I loved back home was safe.

So much has happened in 10 years. I've since gotten engaged, graduated from college, gotten married, had two babies, and am anxiously awaiting our third. I have so much more in my life now to thankful for. And this anniversary reminds me to never take those things for granted. I hope we never go through something like that again, and continue to hold those affected in my thoughts and prayers. May we never forget to live and love in every moment we are given.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Remembering

2011-09-10T07:00:00.000-04:00
Yesterday that postponed-because-of-the-neverending-rain engagement session finally happened. It was a fun session, minus the mosquitoes that ate us alive. I hope that this couple will forgive me one day for all the bites they acquired. ;)

I love doing engagement sessions. It's always fun to photograph a couple with so much to look forward to as they start out together. It always makes me remember how much fun that phase in Billy and I's relationship was. Wishing these guys all the best as they tie the knot next month! Thanks for letting me be a part of it!

Remember that love is easy. It's we who make it complicated. / Leo Buscaglia

The first shot is for The Paper Mama
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Flowers and People need Rain

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-04:00
Usually I don't mind a rainy day or two...they are kind of peaceful. Nice for just being around the house and piddling. I think I'm kind of rainy day-ed out right now though. These last couple of grey days have really had me feeling gloomy. A lot of the rain has been brought on by all the hurricanes happening right now.

I even had to cancel a photo session for it yesterday. It pretty much poured all...day...long. I think we probably need the rain, and I should be grateful for it. (Seems like everyone is always saying we need rain...I maybe should pay more attention to that) I think rain was also easier to tolerate before I had kids. Kids are kind of annoying to take out in the rain. They act like they are going to melt, which I assure you they are not.

But like I said, I'm trying to look at the bright side. The weather has been (I can't believe I'm saying this) a cooler temperature the last few days, and it's been kind of nice. The rain drops make for some pretty photography, too. I took a much needed nap today since my session was rescheduled, and spent some time just snuggling on the couch with my hooligans.

While cloudy grey days are not my fav, some of the things they make possible are pretty nice. I think this is a good analogy for a lot of things in life, if I think about it. Looking at the bright side, and seeing the good that comes out of trials I may be going through, is something that could use a little growth in my life.

Check out more Summer Sunset shots at YouCapture. (I took these at sunset, does that even count? With this rain I haven't seen a sunset all week.)
The first shot is also for Texture Thursday, and Show of Your Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

No-Labor Day

2011-09-06T00:50:00.001-04:00
Feeling short on words today. Maybe it's the preggo brain, maybe it's the fact that I don't sleep between tossing and turning and having to pee all night, maybe it's all the carbs we consumed yesterday. Either way, it was a fun holiday with the family.

So I'll just leave you with a few shots from all our frolicking outside yesterday. It was awesome weather, despite a little rain late in the evening. Hope you were able to enjoy a peaceful day with friends and family, too!

Third shot is for Communal Global, and the last shot is for Sweet Shot.

From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Nothing Like a White Dress

2011-09-05T04:00:00.000-04:00

There is just something so exciting about a white dress. I mean, for girls at least. Not sure it has quite the same effect on a guy…but there’s nothing quite like your wedding dress. Or the next best thing in my opinion, getting to do portraits for someone else in their white dress.

Towards the end of last week I was able to do a bridal portrait session for a girl who is getting married this fall. Bridal sessions are so much fun, and I love being able to do them. This was actually the first time I’d met this bride, and it didn’t take long to see her fun, bubbly personality come out. We had a great time laughing and goofing off, as well as getting a ton of shots. She’s going to make a beautiful bride.

Doing sessions like these always make me want to run upstairsand put on my own white dress. Oh, wait. That’s probably going to have to waituntil the beginning of next year when there isn’t another person inhabiting mybelly. Not sure both of us would fit in that dress at this point. ;)

The first shot is for Paper Heart Camera
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

My Heart

2011-09-03T04:00:00.000-04:00
.Recently on Pinterest I saw a pin featuring this piece of wall art for a nursery that said "No one will ever know the strength of my love for you. After all, you're the only one who knows what my heart sounds like from the inside." It seriously made me cry. I'm not sure if I can blame that on the pregnancy hormones or just the fact that it's so true. I am seriously wanting to make something like that for the littlest guy's nursery.

Yes, you heard right. We found out this week that we are having another little man in January. I had myself convinced that he was a she. Not sure if that's because Merrick kept saying that, or various friends were saying it, but I was even starting to look at girl names online.

When we went to have our ultrasound, the first view we got was literally the classic, "it's a boy" shot. One of those shots that will embarrass him when he has a fiance or a girlfriend years down the road. Good thing we wanted to find out the gender, because he wanted to be sure we knew that he was not a girl.

So looking forward to meeting this little man in a few months. Until then, he's just going to keep taking up more and more of my abdomen, as well as all of my heart. (Yeah, pregnancy hormones. Gotta go blow my nose.)

That last shot is for The Paper Mama
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Peaceful

2011-09-01T07:00:00.001-04:00
The last few evenings/mornings have had that hint of autumn feel in the air. I am a summer fiend, as I've said many times...but there is something so, I don't know, comfortable and peaceful about the change from summer to autumn.

I'm sure there is going to be more of the warm weather I love before summer makes it's official exit, but it was actually kind of nice to sit outside and enjoy the cooler temperatures with Billy and the kids. It had such a homey feel to it, like we should be headed to a football game or like I'd hear some crunching leaves underfoot if I was to leave my lazy spot on the porch.

I think I'm really actually starting to anticipate the change of the seasons this year. This summer has been wonderful, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the time with my family, my camera and clients, and working on our new home. But looking forward to this fall...so many good things to come. A new baby, settling even more into the new routine/area we are in now, a bit more down time as weddings slow down a bit for the season. Its sounds pretty peaceful to me.

I adore fall decorations and colors, and one of my most favorite holidays is coming up. (Halloween...I mean, tons of candy everywhere and my kids dressed up like something absolutely ridiculous. Who could resist?) Pumpkin flavored everything, everywhere you look...I would pretty much eat anything if you add pumpkin to it. As Wild would say..."duuuhlishusss."

As we change from one season to the next, what are some things you are looking forward to?

Check out more shots at YouCapture.
The first shot is for Texture Thursday and Show of Your Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Come on, Irene...

2011-08-30T07:00:00.001-04:00
So recently the area we live in has experienced several natural disasters. We missed one of them while we were on our cruise. (An earthquake that was 5.8 on the scale.) The second was the infamous Irene. She wasn't the kind of lady you want to mess with. Kind of like Tirzah...I can totally see there being a hurricane Tirzah.

Most of the city we live in lost power (about 75% was the number I heard...we were one of the very grateful and lucky ones who never actually lost our power. I am still doing a happy dance over that.) and there were trees down on houses and roads all over the city as well. I heard of several deaths in the area, too. So much damage was done, and so many people are hurting.

We were really blessed to not be effected at all, other than the have to eat Burger King for dinner. (The only open restaurant Billy could find during the hurricane) We even got to sit at home together all day and just enjoy each other's company. After the week away from the hooligans, I was both grateful for that, and reminded of how easily they wear a person out. The kids kept reporting to me that it was still "wind-in and rainin outside", and that the trees "leaf-es" were going to blow off.

I hope that everyone reading this is safe, as well as their property. I am continually thankful for all of the people we know coming through the storm with no physical harm. There are trees to deal with, and houses to patch up, food gone bad in not-so-cold-anymore refrigerators, but those are things we can deal with. We've been blessed, so we can in turn bless others. Come on over if you need a hot shower, some A/C, and an outlet or two!

The first shot is for Sweet Shot, Second is for Pulling My Mask Off, Third is for Communal Global.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Free is Fun

2011-08-29T07:00:00.013-04:00
Recently I was contacted by Canvas Pictures to do a review of their canvases. They offered me a free 8x10 canvas in return for writing about it when I received it. Um, heck yes.

So I was a little skeptical at first. I mean, free? This can't be but so good. But I got it in the mail a few days ago and it's safe to say that it's something I would have paid for.

I love canvases, and have been wanting to put one of these awesome TTD shots taken by my friend Rebecca (of RT Armstrong photography) onto a canvas. This one is great quality and is doing a good job making our mantel/headboard look spiffy.

So not sure how I am as a salesman, (I failed as a jewelry salesman at Macy's back in college) but I definitely recommend checking out Canvas Pictures. I'm a pretty happy customer, and I am a pretty picky girl. ;)

The last shot is for I Heart Faces

From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Home Again, Home Again

2011-08-27T07:00:00.002-04:00
We're finally back home after our very much anticipated, and thoroughly enjoyed, vacay to the Bahamas. I'm so sad to not wake up to this view, but so glad to be back with my hooligans.

We stopped at two different islands on the trip, and had one "fun day" at sea where we could just lay around (aka sunburn our Caucasian behinds) on the deck by the pool. We were kind of attempting to outrun Irene on the trip back, and are hoping the islands we were just able to enjoy (and the states) don't see much damage!

We really did have a fabulous time. We both agreed one of our favorite days of the cruise was our shore excursion to Atlantis in Nassau. They have a water park and more pools than I could manage to get my toes in, as well as gorgeous beaches. And also an aquarium with sharks, as well as other various creatures my hubby ate while we were gone.

Speaking of eating, I think one of our other favorite things was THE FOOD. Billy was in heaven, and I'm pretty sure he managed to get his money's worth out of that buffet by the pool.

And also make me kind of jealous drinking fruity stuff that BabyB3 is not allowed to ingest. Thank goodness for endless Sprite Zero for the preggo...oh, and unlimited cheesecake. That's always nice. It was an awesome trip, but we are glad to be back home and able to kiss those kiddos. How was your week?

Check out more shots at Scavenger Hunt Sunday.
The last shot is for The Paper Mama.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Characteristically Random

2011-08-20T07:00:00.000-04:00
This week, I am going to be purposefully MIA. We are finally going on our much awaited cruise...our delayed 6th anniversary trip that we have looked forward to all summer. So the ol' blog will be uncharacteristically quiet, and this post will be characteristically rambly and random.

While we're gone this coming week I'll officially reach the halfway point in this pregnancy...20 weeks! I cannot believe how fast it's flying by. That's both exciting and scary. (3 kids...I'm already exhausted thinking about it!) At this point BabyB3 is doing great, and has me eating caramel rice cakes topped with PB and honey constantly. Cravings are so weird, and God has been so good giving us this third blessing.

Everyone has said they'd love to see the "finished product", so I finally took some pictures of the mantel we put up in our room. It was great to have it all finished and done before we head out this weekend. I love how it looks! Hoping to find some cool Bahamian nicknacks to decorate it with while on our trip.

I am still able to run with this baby...SO thrilled about that. I love to read while I run on the treadmill, (yes...it took some practice, but great for passing the time. Can't even count the times people have stopped me mid run and asked "how do you DO that???") and just recently finished up The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Thought it was pretty good. Any good treadmill-reading suggestions for me that you've enjoyed recently?

I'm definitely going to be missing the kiddos while I'm gone this week. I told someone recently it takes me 5 minutes away to miss them, and 5 minutes back with them to remember why I wanted a break to begin with. I can't win. ;) I do know this break is going to be good for us, but they're just so darn cute. Even with their new habit of climbing the banister.

I should probably be packing, and instead I'm writing this (it's Friday night). Which means I've pretty much avoided actually putting my clothes into my suitcase for as long as humanly possible. I should probably go get on that. Hope y'all have a great week; catch ya when we get back!

Check out more shots at Scavenger Hunt Sunday
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Ordinary

2011-08-18T07:00:00.004-04:00
Nothing to exciting to report around here. It's been an ordinary kind of week. I'm really glad though. I'm not the type of person who likes being crazy busy. The busier I am the grumpier I tend to get...I think part of that is the introvert in me who desperately needs time to process and just be. I'm a homebody, and love to be able to have free time to just stay home and play with my kids.

Yeah, that picture above is definitely a picture of what our type of "relaxing" looks like. Merrick doesn't relax, and Tirzah follows his example, but it's normal and ordinary for us. So I'll take it. It always makes for great photo opportunities...and I've been glad to have more of a chance for "fun" photography lately. I love doing client work, but when I'm really busy with that I do miss capturing my own kiddos. (They may enjoy the break, but such is life with a photog for a mommy.)

This laid back week has been great for some "I'm gonna miss you" time, too. Billy and I are going to be on a cruise next week, and whenever I think about it (thrilled as I am) I know I'm going to be seriously missing some hooligans. I know, as usual they will be too busy having fun to do much mommy-missing. I'm looking forward to having some kiddo-free time too, especially one last time before a third one is here climbing the banister right along with the other two.

Check out more Ordinary Moments at You Capture.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Back to Sodor Shopping

2011-08-16T07:00:00.002-04:00
We don't go "back to school" yet, since our house is still pretty young. (Our oldest is just going to be 4 this fall) So official school will wait a year or so.

We did however go shopping for a few new additions to the Thomas the Train collection. (Hence the title...if you know anything about Thomas you know he lives on Sodor, as Merrick has made sure I'm aware) Billy and the kids grandma actually did the shopping while I was shooting a wedding last night.

They have gone everywhere with us the last few days: the gym, church, the library, to bed at night, etc. I might as well have two other children named James and Gordon (the trains in the pictures) because they even eat meals with us. At least they are a bit more quiet than the two other children I have.

The first shot is for Trendy Treehouse, and the second is for Sweet Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Earliest

2011-08-15T07:00:00.001-04:00
All the hooligans (this one included) have been very active before and after they are born. I've been able to feel this one kicking since about 10 weeks. (My doctor doesn't believe me, but I think by third time around I'd know what it is.)

This one has been a hard kicker, too. At 18 weeks Billy has already been able to feel it kick his hand sitting on my belly. (The earliest of the 3) It also likes to kick anything that is on my belly, as if to say "get off me". Not sure what it's personality will be, but so far BabyB3 seems to fit in just fine around here.

The last shot is for Macro Monday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Not ready yet...

2011-08-13T07:00:00.002-04:00
Not ready for summer to be over, that is. I go to the store and see "Back to School" everything, and even though I'm not in school (and the kids are too young) it still makes me a little hit depressed.

Thankfully I can remind myself of that fact and walk through Target without having some kind of attack. But I still am relishing these warm days and lazy afternoons with the hooligans. Especially since I know next summer will be much busier with a small baby.

I am also still looking forward to one last summer "fling" when Billy and I go on our cruise in a little over a week. As much as I'll miss them, I'm thrilled to be going on our first trip together post-honeymoon without the kids. (Well, one will be going in my belly, but at least that one only is demanding in the way of cravings at this point)

I am a summer girl, and the thought of the long chilly winter makes me kind of gloomy. But at the same time I am looking forward to meeting BabyB3 this winter, so that's a definite bright spot right around the new year. :) For now, I'm just going to soak up as much vitamin D as I can before time to break out my long underwear.

The last shot is my pick for Paper Heart Camera
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Spiderman and the Independent Princess

2011-08-11T07:00:00.000-04:00
My kiddos occasionally go through a phase where they like to dress up. They got some outfits from one of my sisters last Christmas, and occasionally pull them out and get silly. Spiderman here does exactly what you see in exhibit A: growl and yell and leap from tall buildings that are technically coffee tables where I'm trying to work.

The Princess does a lot of what you see in exhibit B, be dramatic and whine. Although yesterday the Princess said to me (in a low, growly voice) "I'm a pwincess!". Beware Prince Charming...this is a live one. She may be slaying dragons herself. ;)

They usually end up fighting when they dress up. Ok, that's normal whether they're dressed up or not. But Spiderman tends to chase the Princess a little too much, and well, like I said...she isn't your typical damsel in distress. She fights back. (I'm not-so-secretly proud of her spirited attitude, but it needs to be...contained a bit?)

I'm glad they have fun dressing up, I have a lot of memories of that as a kid and how fun "pretend" is. If I could just get them to somehow incorporate "pretend to get along for 5 minutes" into their story line...

Check out more shots at YouCapture.
The last shot is for Texture Thursday.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Not your average...

2011-08-09T07:00:00.020-04:00
...headboard. But I am SO excited about this piece of "junk" we found at a local consignment shop. I posted about it earlier, and how we've been fixing it up. Billy finished painting it yesterday afternoon, and we put it up in our room last night. I am very excited about the different look it gives to our room, as opposed to the traditional headboard we had before.

Also, again, I'd like to take this moment to thank Pinterest for giving me ideas when I am suffering from preggo brain and can barely remember my name much less come up with cute decorating ideas for our home. All the ideas on there, everything from recipes to home projects, are so much fun to look over and fantasize about one day actually accomplishing.

Fixing it up has been somewhat of a chore. It's huge, and weighs a ton, and was covered in chipping paint that we wanted to kind of salvage because we liked the look of it. It's been residing everywhere from my living room to the back deck during the process. One afternoon it was on the deck and it started to rain. I was home alone at the time, and my pregnant self had to drag it into the house. Not a pretty sight.

But now it's finished and has found a new home in my room. (I'll put up some pics of that at some point later too...it was in the process while I was writing this) Now I probably need to find another project for Billy to work on really quick before he gets tired of all this crafty stuff I've been forcing him to do lately.

The first shot is for Perceptive Perspectives, and the last is for Sweet Shot.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

A Gift

2011-08-08T07:00:00.001-04:00
As our Wildman gets older, and we get to know him better, we are realizing a little bit more about who he is. He's a high energy, inquisitive, possibly ADHD, a little OCD, guy who is full of life and questions. He is, and always has been, a lot like his daddy, who was recently diagnosed with ADHD. Merrick seems like he's a good candidate for the same. ;) And knowing what I know about my husband, we actually see it as a gift.

Sounds a bit funny maybe, since ADHD (or any label for that matter) is often seen as a negative. But after watching how Billy's mind works, if that's what we're dealing with in Merrick, he's got a lot of great qualities to offer that some people may not necessarily have when they don't have ADHD to work with.

We know that learning as much about him (and whatever it is that makes him up) as possible is best for him and us. He's a little young for us to know for sure if it's ADHD, but we met with a lady over the weekend who said a lot of things that made a lot of sense in relation to our bundle of energy. We're looking forward to getting to know Wild even better.

The last shot is my pick for Paper Heart Camera.
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/

Future Vegan?

2011-08-06T07:00:00.000-04:00
I got to do a session with a little guy yesterday at the park. He's turning one this coming week, and his mom contacted me to have some one year pictures taken for his birthday party.

She was in a big hurry to get them finished before his party, which had snuck up on her. The first birthday tends to do that, looking back on it. You turn around and all of a sudden your baby is turning one...where did the year go? Seems like the story of my life...so I totally sympathized with her.

He was a trooper, only giving me a few glares when we first started shooting. But he quickly got comfortable crawling and cruising like a pro and eating everything (and yes, I mean everything) he could get his fingers on. Sticks, rocks, seeds, leaves, grass, dirt...I think his mom may have a vegan on her hands. He seems partial to salads. ;)

It was fun to do a session like this, which I hadn't done in a little bit for all the weddings and summer busy-ness. Kids are so easy to shoot, in my opinion. (Some people think it's really tough, but I think it's just what I'm used to) No shyness or camera-phobia yet...they are totally themselves. (I have a panic attack in front of a camera, which is why it's usually pointed the other direction.) Hope this little guy has a great first birthday; I'm glad we got to hang out for a bit.

The last shot is my pick for The Paper Mama
From our blog: http://bunchofbarrons.blogspot.com/