Playing CATCH up

Ramsay had his first DIP cone this summer.

We ate ALOT of Chuys cheese dip....

Gator rides were on the daily agenda

my little nemo's

We took York and Perry to their first concert... Alan Jackson!

We took every single toy outside!

made friends at the park

Enjoyed some cousin Hollee time

Illegally drove up the street

Watched fireworks with friends

did some slidin'

captured some brotherly love

and a little more...

Played with Edie Lane

Made it to the beach...

attempted family photo's

Made our first "beach" friends... Gunter and Sam

Had a couple of check ups!

Celebrated daddy with army party

got a pedicure

"Cheers"

Had some dates... love our Collins

one more movie date...

Goofy boys

Practiced our touchdown dance

rode some tractors with Pop pop

Ramsay got some gator action (while parked)

lovey

Perry learned to sign I LOVE YOU

Got new tires on the truck

pool fun

Caught red handed getting "cookies"... just like DADDY

and had some down time :0)

I have been a terrible blogger this summer -partly because my laptop wasn't working- and I felt that without pictures my blogs would become LAME.  So here we are ... days away from Thanksgiving and I'm playing catch up!  Although I feel guilty for letting the blog become neglected... I look through these photos and recall the memories, smells, and love I felt in those moments.  I'm so grateful for being able to stay home with my wild men and make these special memories.  So what if- a blog doesn't get written, a load of clothes had to be turned on again (for the 5th time), or my dining room table looks like a yard sale for little children's clothing.  So what if- the beds never get made, the toys are left all of the living room, or that my car looks like a homeless person is living in it.  So what if- I didn't get a shower, the boys Sunday clothes got stained, or we skipped nap time for a afternoon movie.  So what if- he wears Camo boots with everything, he insists on brushing his own hair, or he has to "cut" his food by himself.  These days are fleeting and the older I get the more important each moment becomes.  I am so thankful for this life... for the opportunity to raise my boys and share each experience together.  The fighting, whining, and crying that a day brings is definitely out shadowed by the laughter, smiles, hugs and kisses.  What a bonus each day holds for my little army... whether its a new word, a day without potty accidents, or the simple excitement for getting "brother" from school... we embark on a different journey daily.  I'm thankful for our sweet Sydney who helps me a couple days a week.. without her my mind would be mush and perspective distorted.  I'm thankful for those hours to run errands with a minute to myself...  those hours that allow me to genuinely miss them!  That small break enables me to appreciate LIFE... 

Enjoy the pictures of this summer/fall... and I promise to be a more dedicated blogger!  We should be moving in the next 2 weeks and I have a BIG blog coming with pictures from the beginning to end of the build.  Enjoy this life and try to let some of the small "battles" go... and embrace the love and opportunity that sits all around you.

WAR EAGLE ... my friends!

November News

War EAGLE with the best neighbors ever!  What a nice day to relax and cheer on our TIGERS

Happy Birthday to our sweet Sydney!

Dinner with Jackson

Perry can "persuade" Rams to do just about anything.. especially hiding from MOM in the cabinet!

Nice break with Skip at the Galleria!

Finally decided to chop the mullet

Good bye baby mullet!!

Awakening

Why is it so easy to take this life for granted?  Why does it take a tragedy, accident, or illness for us to appreciate the many blessings surrounding us.  Why is it so hard, as sinners, to get caught up in our selfish living that we can't dedicate our first thoughts, breath, or prayer to him?  Why do we "push" him aside when things are going well... giving ourselves all the credit for these blessings?  Are we too vain to think we "deserve" this life we are given?  When in reality WHAT do we really deserve?  Is entitlement the bigger issue?  I'm humbled with a change of perspective.  Ashamed -really. 

 Ashamed that I get overwhelmed with my children at times... that my patience have been depleted and I snap at a family member or spouse... that my fatigue effects the joy that night time rituals bring... that in the hustle and bustle of raising young children I don't take in the beauty that surrounds me.... that instead of raising my voice I should turn to prayer before handing out a punishment... that these days are fleeting and I'm barely hanging on without the adequate amount time given to our Lord... 

More so ashamed- that in the wake of a tragic loss of life that I'm reminded how incredibly blessed we are.  Why does it take something so monumental to "shake us up"?  The 30 little piggies that live in my house bring unexplainable joy to my days... am I taking them, this life, our life for granted?  Am I emphasizing the "right" things throughout our day, is our focus on our amazing God and His hand in our lives, and am I able to lay my head on the pillow at night without regret.  Building character in these little men is a dangerous and difficult job... am I doing my best?  Will they appreciate this life that we are given?  In learning to be more grateful for the "small" stuff, I hope it propels me on a journey that the boys will learn from.  That we will all be able to see God's work in goodness and in darkness.  

Scripture says, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)  How liberating is that?  God will never allow anything to happen that isn't according to his will and directed to our good.  TRUST.  This may be the most difficult part of being a Christian for me. TRUST.  Accepting our role in his plan and understanding we are not the "main character" is challenging.  

Today I am thankful for the change of perspective this day brings and for the fullness it will give me all the days of my life.  Saddened for the loss of one of Perry's school mates.. as their life will never be the same.  Please pray for their strength, comfort, and days ahead as they will be unbearable.  We will lay this precious child in the ground tomorrow and I can not articulate the grief I feel.  As we celebrate this little "curly headed" angel -I'm reminded that we are all here for a purpose.  I encourage you to find and embrace your purpose today.  Share the works of our Lord in your life and don't be ashamed.  For I am ashamed not to.   

Lord, you have given us 1 chance at an amazing life.  A life that we are able to shape, mold, and create to Glorify YOU.  Help us remember that you are the reason we wake each day.  Lead us down a path that only perpetuates good.  Allow us to be examples to others who haven't received your eternal promise.  Use us, Lord, as vessels to share you word and love others as you love us.  Provide us with the gumption necessary to stand up for you and not be shaken.  We celebrate you Lord.  We celebrate you today and every day after that.  Only you know our true heart... thankfully so.  Sometime words just aren't enough.

Today words aren't enough. 

The summer has flown by at record speed.. 

We have been so busy my blog has unfortunately taken a back seat.  

Here's what's going on 

York began k-4

Loves his teacher and new schedule (8-11:45)

Perry is adjusting to mornings without brother

Baby is walking well and is his brothers shadow 

New House has been sheet rocked and ready for flooring

(Move in date has moved to early November)

We have an amazing new girl (Sydney) who helps me 2 days a week with the boys

We have thoroughly enjoyed the Oak Mt amphitheaters concert series!

Perry has become a momma's boy and I'm not complaining 

York is getting great at carpool (which has been a learning experience for me!)

Wes is worn out from working at pharmacy then at new house... 

I'm gearing up for the annual golf tournament for the YMCA, helping with a charity (jks) drawdown, and a live auction! 

Perry and I have had a few dates while York is at school and they are great. Nothing like one on one time with each of my babies. 

York comes home gushing about his day and my heart smiles. He already recited his first bible verse.

York rides with Wes each morning to school and I think it's a highlight for them both. 

Ramsay is saying lots of words and signs in the cutest voice to loud music. He is super smily and will eat anything! 

Ramsay and perry will begin Mother's Day out next week. (2days/ 9-1pm) pray for sweet Rams since he has only stayed in church nursery and it is epic fail each week! 

Hoping it gets better...

Life is crazy, exciting, exhausting, and fulfilling all at the same time. Help me, Lord, to drink it up!!

Pictures soon of boys and house. Promise!

Baby RAMS is ONE!

Happy birthday precious Ramsay!

On Tuesday (July 16) we celebrated doll babies first birthday.  Ramsay has brought so much love and happiness into our lives. He wakes each morning with a big pacifier grin. He rarely fusses and adores his brothers. He began walking two weeks ago and is loving his new found independence. He tries so hard to keep up with the big boys and is close behind their ever step. He is growing entirely too quickly and will soon catch up with P in weight! (21 pounds at check up)  We have transitioned to whole milk, sippy cups, and a forward facing car seat!  Will time please slow down?  How incredible it is to look back on this past year!  Completing our family of five has come with its challenges but far more rewards.  This perfect little man rolls with the punches and is an absolute blessing.  I am savoring our good night lullabies and morning time together without brothers. He has a couple of words. (ie momma, dadda, bubba, etc)  He currently enjoys uninterrupted naps, ice, one paci in mouth/ one in hand, toe nibbling, yelling, using most things as chew toys, blowing raspberries, belly laughs, dogs, baths, all table food, being held, occasional head butts, ice cream, being naked, loud music, and all of his brothers attention. 

We are having a party on the beach for sweet Rams this week with smash cake and all. Instead of gifts we've asked family to donate to www.justkeepsmiling.org a foundation who supports families in need during terminal prognosis or illness of a child. I encourage you all to check out their site and see how they are making a difference in Alabama. 

Stop and smell the roses

June has been crazy for the Harless family. 

step fathers birthday (6) 

Wesley's 32 birthday (13)

fathers day (16) 

7th wedding anniversary (17)

We took a family beach trip to celebrate and enjoy the beginning of summer. The kids had a blast and made wonderful memories catching crabs, flying kites, building castles, fishing, and swimming mixed with minimal fighting. It was a much needed trip and a wonderful way to spend Wesley's big day and our 7 married years together. We did break away for one date night and it ended with a trip to wal mart! Woo hoo! The joys of being married/ traveling with children.  

Amongst this chaos of summer I've managed to sit back and enjoy and reflect (if only momentarily) on some incredibly special moments. York and Perry met some friends at the beach (Sam /age 11 and Gunter /age 12) who stayed at the house beside us. They were amazing little men and adored my boys. They woke each morning anticipating how their new "friends" would fit into their day. We even invited them to dinner one night. They braved the waves, "taught" the big boys how to fish, built a massive sand castle, and dominated any snack food I provided. It melted my heart to see these older boys so engaged with mine. And quickly reminded me that time doesn't stop and soon mine will be out on the beach standing taller than Me.  We became Facebook friends (hehe) and hope to keep intouch.  They set a great example to my boys in many ways with their stellar manners and incredible patience. We are still talking about those two and I hope York and Perry will always remember their first beach friends.... 

(I'll post pix later)

We are also enjoying swimming.  York learned last year and had a rocky start remembering. In fact I gave a pep talk (while in pool screaming at the TOP of his lungs shouting things like "I will choke and DIE"--- all parents watching and judging) "it's just like riding a bike! Son -You never forget" to his appropriate response "mom- I don't know how to ride a bike! Duh!". Right.  Ok  

Implement plan 2--I just chunked him in!  That worked like a charm. My little nemo swam to the ladder like a pro. (still onlookers are judging). After a very harsh look from York and the realization that he was in fact alive -he did a little chuckle and began swimming like micheal phelps. Ok so maybe phelps little cousin but nonetheless he is enjoying it an I don't have to pay for swim 

Lessons again! Woo hoo!  I am now contemplating trying the "sink or swim" method with ole P who thinks he can do the breaststroke already.  I'll update on that as we progress...

Our new favorite place is steel city pops! If you haven't gone it's an absolute must. Heaven on a stick! I am not joking. My best friend Kelly has been telling about the Popsicle phenomenon (because she is alway in the know about incredible new kid things) for at least a year and I can't believe I didn't go sooner. As York would say-"it has changed my life."  and that my friends is NO exaggeration.   Find a store near you and if I may-- order a butermilk and eat until your hearts content. (also good are strawberry and chocolate).

I have to blog about the other night before I forget. I put both Ramsay and Perry to bed and let York watch some cartoons in my bed for awhile. It was getting late so I told him that he could stay until he fell asleep then I would move him to his bed. He then asked me if I would hold his hand as we slept so we could dream together... And that is precisely what we did. I woke up about 3 hours later his small little hand in mine and my heart is still full thinking about it.  As I stepped out of the sower the next day I said "York you sure were funny in my dreams last night. So glad you were able to come!" and he said "I dreamed about you too, mom. The holding hands really does the trick". Yes it does sweet boy.   I will dream with you anytime. 

Perry is talking a ton! He has a very sweet heart and is quite the character.  My favorite is when Wes will tell him "I love you P" and he yells "I love MOMMY!".  It is hysterical and he only does it because I laugh so much. He went with me to the nail place recently and as they were doing my pedicure (him in my lap) they reached up to rub some lotion on his leg.  The nail lady sweetly looked up and said "that feel good?". From then on he continually repeated in his best baby Asian voice "that feel gooooood! That feel gooooood! Mommy- do that feel guuuuud?"  It was definitely the highlight of my day and maybe 3 or 4 other ladies that heard him. 

Ramsay is almost walking. He has taken a few steps. Some willingly and others forced by brothers who get too pushy. (literally)  He is strong and can hang with his brothers without a problem.  He loves to eat and hasn't found a food that he doesnt enjoy.  He has a tender disposition and just goes with the flow. As long as brothers are in clear site he is happy.  He will be a year old in just a month and I am again wondering where the time has gone. What a blessing he is to our family and my sanity.  Not to mention he has a killer smile...

House update 

We are in the framing stages of the build and I have a gazillion pictures to post to document our progress. It is exciting and the boys are finally understanding that in October / November  we will move into this house we have watched go up. Bigger post to follow on details. 

Enjoy these days of summer my friends. Until next time. 

Ev

Yorkism--Pinglish

Yorkism's...
"Do you have a girlfriend?" - pop pop

"No oo o ...they are too expensive!" York  

"I love you petal to the metal" - York 

"Mom -you need a sleep number bed." -York 

((too much television?))

"I have kong fu skills" - York 

"Oh great day" -York 

(learned from uncle Scott)

"I love snails -I think they are gorgeous!" -York 

"I feel so free mom!" -York 

(walking naked after bath) 

"I don't do sleepovers " - York 

(when asked to stay the night) 

"Girls can not go to home depot.  It's just too dangerous. You can like it mom but you can't go!" - York 

(justifying a boys trip to the depot) 

"I want to change your name to Dave mat-u" -York 

(Dave Matthews -- bc of my hysteria surrounding last post/ concert)

"Do you know what I like to do for fun? I like to kick people's 

buts." -York 

"I'm not cute I'm cool" - York 

"Dot call me kid ...call me preschooler!" -York 

"Mommy your an expert " -York 

"I love you so much even when you make me 'mad as I can go'." -York 

"Heaven has a gift shop" -York 

"What does heaven look like? " - me

"It had beautiful flowers and lots of hummers"-York
(York's obsession w daddy's humme
r has hit an all time high)

"I don't like the color you are when u tan" York to me

"Is that why you bought me these water Guns? ...So I could protect you from lizards!" -York

"I've been hunting for days. Shot 10 ducks" -York
(duck dynasty)

"I've been walking for years ...that's why my shoes have holes" -York
(wearing crocs)

"Stay close someone might snatch you." - me
"I'll snatch them --they don't know about me!" -York
(where does he get this confidence??)

"I just burped on the interstate"- York

"Get your bloody face away from me" -York
(after my fall)

"Mom you're Acting like you're 22!" -York

"Those dogs in the doggy trap are mean!" -York
(perhaps that's called a dog pen)

"Is he into those ?" -York
 (Ramsay eating Cheerios)

PINGLISH...

"I love you so much" -P

"Thank you brother sir" -P

"Santa watchin you!"- P

"No cut my chicken fingers!" -P

"What chew think about that!" -P

"Hey broda bear!" -P
"let's jam momma! Windows down.. Turn it up!" -P

"I love mommy boo boos" -P
(after my fall)

"How bout that!"-P

"Whose your best friend ? - me   "SteFAnie" -P
(his teacher)

"Chocolate nilla " -P
(what he calls chocolate krispy Kreme donuts)

"You s bad boy-- you go jail !" -P
"perry did you bite that boys?" - me
"he a bad boy.. I bite him 2 times!" -P