sin is BAD stuff...

This was our first play date with Brooks.  We had a rough start...

HAM 1

HAM 2

 Brooks was ALL smiles after getting acquainted with the Harless Heathens. We enjoyed a great afternoon of riding toys, cars, trains, and sunshine.  They had a wonderful time and all 3 boys were napping within minutes of heading home.

My little bunny!

He loves his puppy dog!

Happy Birthday Papa Perry!

Above is a picture from my Papa's 85 birthday party!  What a wonderful Sunday we had with our family celebrating sweet Papa-Tom.  He has been in failing health for the last couple of years but was all smiles with his loved ones surrounding him.  We enjoyed delicious ribs and all the fixins!  I Cherish these times with all of my cousins, aunts, and uncles.  The boys were wild Indians and showed everyone their endless energy... I came home 1 tired momma!

Sweet York story:

Tuesday I walked into to get York from Mother's Day out.  York ran over to me and exclaimed, "Mary was so sad on that Hill!"  His teacher joined us as he went on.... "Mary cried on that hill when Jesus died on the cross".  I was completely speechless.  What a moment.  I couldn't believe what I was hearing.  The Easter story told to my by my tiny 3 year old!  Pure amazement.  Pure happiness.  Pure Glory to GOD.  I told York that he was right and he interrupted me with "then the rock rolled away and Jesus was alive and Mary was happy again".  As tears filled my eyes I looked to the teacher who beamed proudly at what York had retained from their lesson.  I immediately reach for him and held him so tightly.  I still cannot articulate the joy that this moment brought.  My heart is still so full as we continue to talk about the significance of the cross in our yard.  It is so wonderful to see his little brain process such an amazing miracle.  He will point out crosses in neighbors yards or while we are going down the road and will say "that's where Jesus died".  He asked yesterday why he died... (why didn't we ask this one at school!! hehe) and I told him that Jesus died for our sins.  Follow up question:  What is sin?  As I deliberated on how to wrap sin up in deliver it in a box to a 3 year old I decided on the obvious.  A sin is not obeying your parents or hitting your brother when your mad.  And he quickly said "Oh a sin is bad stuff!" YES SON YES!!  You summed it up perfectly... a Sin is Bad STUFF! 

I pray in anticipation for the day that he chooses to ask God to live in his heart.  Until then I will continue to talk about the love of our Savior and his many sacrifices.  I want all of my children to hear our Lord's name constantly and feel free to talk to him at any moment.  I am so grateful for the opportunity we have to send York to a Christian school with teachers who love our Lord.  Teachers who saturate my little mans mind with the word by songs, arts and crafts, and scripture.  Teachers who are on fire for Christ and don't take their role lightly.  I can't express my gratitude for what they are giving my boys so early.  The foundation for a life time of service to our maker.  Thank you Bwood! Thank you isn't near enough....

I wouldn't have it any other way...

My boys...

I have been reflecting on my life with boys as I watch other moms around town.  When I see a mom putting a bow back in place, rearranging stockings under a little tu-tu, or juggling the dramatics of a diva-in-training I cant help but think about the life that God has chosen to give me.  Although I do feel a bit sad that I will never get the opportunity to play dress up, experiment with make up, or plan a wedding.  I'm reminded that as exciting as those things may be I have been given a different path. 

A challenge to raise 3 men of God.  It is not only my responsibility as a parent but my duty as a believer.  I want to be able to light the fire that is in my children's hearts already.  I want to help feed that flame as they gown into young men and hope that it will burn brighter and brighter as the years pass.  They they will be ready for dark days and face them with certainty that only comes from a deep relationship with our Creator.  I want them to be strong spiritually.  I read a book by Auburn's chaplain Chette Williams while in College called Hard Fighting Soldier.  (If you have not read the book and are a football/sports fan or have ties to Auburn University then give it a try.)  I am going to challenge myself to hold strong this idea of "bootcamp" for my soldiers.  I want to make them dangerous warriors for the kingdom of God.  I want my boys to have strong character, maturity, work skills, and discipline to provide for their own families. 

I want to make sure Wes and I lead by example and even share small chores (at this age) to teach some sort of responsibility that our nations men lack.  I want them to learn at home to regard family, friends, and other relationships as important and to be treated with care.  To learn from our mistakes.  To never judge because we do not know others situations.  To respect others opinions although they may not be our own.  To stay true to their core values and beliefs no matter the situation.  To forgive and recover.  To give... and help others even if we only have a little to offer.  To be kind and to think before speaking.  To listen to their hearts and avoid making rash decisions.  To put others feelings first.  That saying I love you never gets old.  To never be too old to hug (or kiss) their momma. These are a list of just a few important lessons I hope to tackle and know it will grow as other problems arise and more mature situations are put before us.  I hope that as parents we are able to give our children the right balance of compassion and discipline.  That they will know we are always around to listen, love, and support.  I value this opportunity the Lord has given me and pray daily for the strength and passion I will need to continually care for these amazing boys.... my boys!

"They are magically disgusting and they make my teeth squeak!"

I thought that buying some Lucky Charms would add a little "spark" to our mornings or afternoon snacks.  ((I must admit -I did buy the bargain brand... I mean the real thing is like a million dollars. They are proud of that little leprechaun))  Perry gobbled up the sweet cereal, all smiles, while picking out his favorite marsh mellow.  However York's breakfast treat didn't go over quite as well.  He wasn't amused by the colorful marsh mellows and at one point began dry heaving. -insert mommy laughter- I told York that they were "Magically Delicious" (that's what they say...right?) but he wasn't fooled.  He replied, "They are MAGICALLY Disgusting and they make my teeth squeak!"  Well I guess that is that.  Perry will continue to devour the sweet goodness and York will continue to ask for Fruit Loops or Apple Jacks.  Sorry General Mills... you can't win them all!

While driving down the road the Pink Floyd song (don't judge) "money" happen to come on the radio.  For those of you who are unfamiliar with the song... the beginning sounds like coins clinking and registers ringing.  York pipes up from the back seat with "This sounds cool, it makes my ears tickle!"  Oddly that is how their adult fans think of their music too... hmmm!

I repeatedly told Perry not to stand in his chair = unsuccessful results.  York chimes in with "Perry is not a good listener mom!".

I was so excited to take York on a "date" the other day.  We had several things on our agenda and were having a great time.  I made sure to tell him that we were on a "date" and he referred to our date throughout our lunch and errands.  He wasn't listening and I told him that he would have to sit in time out if he continued to be ugly and he thought about this for a while.  The next thing I hear is "Mom is our date over because your mad?"

We were getting some Spring clothing at Target and we got to the checkout as she rang up our items.  I leaned over and said "York are you worth 100 dollars?" and he quickly said "Umm.. just about 20 dollars!"

"Mommy where were you?" -York
"I was taking a shower" -me
"why" -York
"Because I was dirty" -York
"I think your beautiful dirty" -York
((Worlds youngest suck up OR sweetest boy in the world)) -I'm going with the second!

"Dad, whats your husbands name?" -York
-insert mommy laughter-

I changed York's nighttime diaper and asked him to go to the potty before we put on his pull up for the day and he sweetly look up at me and said, "No but thanks anyway!".

I have to get a shot every Friday and York has learned that I go after I drop him at MDO.  He was particularly worried about me this past week.  (I've been having a reaction to the shots at the injection site and he hears me talk about it)  On the way to school he said, "Mom I hold your hand at the doctor"  (melt my heart!)

My belly button has never been a full "innie"... during pregnancy it seems to make a very noticeable distraction.  She hasn't failed me this time and is beginning to make her appearance.  York noticed it the other night while we were watching cartoons in bed and says, "ugly, ugly, ugly, your belly button is ugly!"  thanks son!  I know.

York loves the show Phineas and Ferb and they have a platypus character known as Perry.  Perry the Platypus.  He is a special agent and is referred to as Agent P alot of time.  I noticed York calling Perry "Agent P" the other day... although I didn't realize til I watched the show that afternoon that he was saying Agent.   I thought he was saying Angel P... either way SUPER CUTE

PERRY the HARLESS, Agent P, or P-Baby
is trying to keep up with his brother and is saying quite alot.
Here are a couple of his better words:
truck
tractor
mine
milk (mil)
momma
dadda
bye bye
car
dog
more (and will sign it as well)
Proud of my boys and am enjoying these times so very much... until next time!

I love this BEACH

Feb 2012 -Blue Mountain Beach, FL

Silly Perry

typical Yorkster

Our view from the room... A M A Z I N G

We took our last family vacation before Ramsay arrives.  I am put on "travel restriction" earlier than normal because of my preemie baby history... so we took advantage of Wesley's off weekend and headed SOUTH.  We had an absolute blast and it couldn't have come at a better time.  It was the perfect way to relax and enjoy our boys at these ages.  They both loved the beach and could have stayed all day long if we would have let them.  York actually told us to "throw the Birmingham house in the water because this condo was our new home" then he proceeded to kiss the wall and give it a hug while announcing "I love this beach".  I feel ya York-man... I could have stayed forever.  Glad my boys harbor the same love for the water and sand that their Daddy and I do.  Mark my words faithful blog followers:::: We WILL end up at the beach ONE day.  That is Wes and my shared vision for our future.  We are not sure when that day will come but we are certain it will.  We will enjoy life until then... these days are so fleeting and so fun.  Perry really enjoyed the beach and followed brothers lead of shoveling sand, crashing castles, and driving tractors on their "sand" roads.  We enjoyed a Doggy Mardi Gras parade on Saturday, a Mardi Gras country broil on Sunday, and live music on Monday!  The weather cooperated on Sunday and Monday and made for 2 marvelous days on the beach.  It truly is one of the most beautiful beaches you will find anywhere and just takes my breath away each time I look back at the pictures.  I think we Alabamians take our beaches for granted sometimes because we have all grown up going there... they are really a treasure!  Perhaps I never realized how much of a treasure until I saw my boys enjoy it. . . pure happiness. 

BABY UPDATE (19 weeks)
By the way I am almost HALF way done with this pregnancy... What?  I sometime forget that I am actually "with child" (when my head isn't in the toilet or suffering from hormonal hot flashes) then realize there will soon by another little munchkin joining our gang.  Perry has decided that is a monkey and is climbing out of his crib... so transition to toddler crib/bed will be happing this weekend.  (in his new room) I guess this is as good a time as any to prepare the nursery.  I need the walls painted, new furniture delivered, and new fixture hung in babies room.  I guess we can begin the "change"... and make it more REAL that another little life will soon be arriving!  My clothes are getting tighter and I can feel him moving all the time... Last night York was able to feel him kick!!  That was exciting... he was too young to understand or care last during P's pregnancy.  York was really happy and said "Wow her is STRONG!  her kick my hand!"  Yes he still thinks its a GIRL... I guess I will just let that go until he gets here then show him the boy parts to confirm.  York is adamit about the gender and will get angry if you try to argue.  Oh well.. pick your battles?!?!  This baby moves alot at night and early morning and Wes has been able to feel him from the outside since around 16 weeks.  Much earlier that with the other two.  FYI... his name is Ramsay (not sure If I've mad that BLOG offical) that is Wesley's grandmothers name and would have been the name regardless of gender.  The other name is undecided and I dont even have 2 front runners.  Believe it or not naming 3 boys is hard!!!  That is 6 boy names... by the way!! Most people only like 2 or 3 boy names- try coming up with 6 PEOPLE!  Very hard.  I may not name him til I see him... is that terrible? I may have to look at his little face an see if he is more of a Napoleon or Vitamaude? (unfortunately neither are in the running but both are FAMILY names -you didn't think I could just make those up did you?  afraid not)  Other that that I have my "official" anatomy scan/ultrasound Friday where I will do my best "surprise" face as the tech shows the goods.  I will update with evidence... Hope everyone is enjoying their Ash Wednesday.  Much love -Ev

the day for LOVE

My sweet boys enjoying their LOVE SUGAR!

The adorable gifts the boys gave Wes and I!

Sweet Tascha (one responsible for the SUPER CRAFTS the boys made)  She is so creative and just loves my boys to death... Thanks T for being such a kind and compassionate person in our lives!

2012 brought my BEST Valentines Day yet... York walked around shouting about "Valentines day" and his Party at school!  He told me it was the day for LOVE and that he really loved his P-dawg.  I heard him tell Perry last night..."Do you know how much I luv you P?".  Wowzers.. talk about MELT this mommas heart!  To see York's face as I opened the gifts he so delicately made and kept a "secret" for 2 days was priceless.  I love that he enjoys giving as much as receiving.  What a gift in itself.  Perry of course was ALL SMILES as he inhaled one sugar cookie after another.  Perry is at such a sweet age... he adores everything York does and encourages his wacky behavior.  I hope York will always look at Perry with protective love and that P will appreciate it.  I try even now to teach the two that there is no bond like a brothers and how important it is to love them with all of our hearts all of the time.  I hope I can help their bond strengthen each day so it will never unravel... the closeness of siblings is so incredibly important.  I hope they will work to nurture that relationship as long as they live. 

A BOYS WORLD: Food for thought

 Boys Boys Boys... I try hard to understand them and relate as much as possible but it isn't easy.  Like why do boys stink? (if your a girl mom you will not appreciate this statement)... I can pull them out of the tub and they smell like a wet dog.  Not their fault... its just BOYS!  And what is with their continual need for pain or is it plain stubbornness?  If I tell the boys not to put their finger in the drawer because it will shut and HURT them and they continually do said behavior multiple times- shouldn't they learn a lesson?.... don't girls learn the first time that their action provided a unsavory response therefore they shouldn't do it a second time?  NOT the case at my house. "Boys will be Boys" is that saying finally registering with me?   I think so!  And what is with the need to growl or make "vicious" sounds at one another when they aren't 100% happy...?? Is that just my kids?  Is it really fun to sound like a character from Nightmare on Elm street?  It is really that intimidating?  Does it make mom want to growl back... is that the intended response?  And that FUN-Happy violence... you know the kind... the I'm so excited and having such a wonderful day that I feel the need to headbutt or tackle someone!  Maybe jump from couch to couch on top of parental target or climb the outside of the stairs because that isn't nearly as dangerous as ascending the more traditional way!  hmmm... thoughts?  Lastly... why does one crying child lead another down the same tearful avenue?  We have to cry in unison?  Do we NOT need a reason for waterworks?  I always thought so... 

For now I will continue to observe the weird behavior and actions of one "all knowing (because he asks WHY every other word)" handsome 3 year old and his "precious lil mimic/sidekick".  Until next time -signing out from BOY-verse

Jabber Jaws is on a R O L L

"How old are you York?" -mom

"I'm TREE!" -York

"That makes me do BAD things momma!" -York

(culprit: loud music)

"Look at the Chii- new on TV" -York

I look at the screen to see a Chinese gentleman

There is an African American man that narrates York's movie .. Big Rigs.  At one point in the show he exclaims "I'm a NATURAL!" as he drives a large tractor.  York watches this show nightly... to say he is obsessed is an understatement.  Recently we were watching the news and York notices...

"Mom he is a natural" -York

"huh??" -mom

"That man is a natural!" -York

((Then I realize it is an African American news anchor... York now thinks all Black people are naturals! This makes me laugh!))

"I'm hard mommy... I'm made out of WOOD" -York

I was applying my make up when York asks "WHY?"

"So I dont look ugly!" -mom

"I love you ugly momma" -York

At dinner the other night Perry began his "I'm done with my dinner so I'll scream until someone picks me up" fit and York looks over at Wes and says, "What are we going to do with this child?"

We were driving down the interstate and hit several pot holes and York yells, "You almost knock my teef out of my mouf!"

"Don't be lazy Daddy... be healthy" -York

(Trying to get Wes to play outside with him!)

"That's how I roll... in the street" -York

The other night in the car Wes says to me... "I thought Baklava was Jewish"  As I explained that it was not ... York chimed in with "I thought blocklablob was juuwich! and Jewish is a girl!"



BABY 3 UPDATE

I will be 16 weeks tomorrow and am feeling this little guy all the time.  Although I am yet to "pooch" I am reminded of this tiny miracle throughout the day with his somersaults!  It's such a sweet time ... watching my boys grow into little men and experiencing the physical and emotional growth/ change within my own body.  Each stage is as exciting and challenging as the next.  I will begin my weekly shots tomorrow along with continued prayers that this babe will stay put as long as possible.  The shots are not the easiest but the benefits far outweight the weekly pain!  I am feeling good other than the occasional "vom" session... which is becoming further and far between!  I am CRAZY tired and cant remember being this tired with the other 2.  I feel sure that I will pop soon because I can feel the hard mass migrating out of my pelvis.  Pants are getting tighter and my hormonal rages are ramping up.  (sorry Wes)  I am already thinking about how much our Power Bill will be come July! W O W... need to start saving now.  I am already one hot hormonal mess and it is only January -granted we are having unseasonably warm weather.  I am trying to keep my miles up but some days it just isn't happening ... I am learning to cope with that.  All in all this has been an uneventful but blessed pregnancy and hope it continues that way!  Updates soon...