41 Things I want My Kids To Know About Me...

What I want My Kids to Know About Me...

Simply Me....Simply Mom

41 Things I want My Kids to know about me some good, some fun, some not so good. It is simply a list of things I someday want to communicate to them.  I want them to know about the things I love, and most important that I love them and their Dad. I want them to know that I have fears, and that I mess up. I want them to know that before I was Mommy I was simply me.  I want them to know……

1.       I truly love Jesus as my Redeemer, my Peace, my King!

2.       I love you munchkins with every molecule of my being!

3.       I am a creature of habit. I don’t do change well.

4.       After all these years I am still completely in love with your Dad.

5.       My greatest successes are the 4 of you.

6.       God’s plans for me have often been different than my own plans.

7.       I am not a morning person!

8.       I pray for you every day.

9.       I will fight with all my might for this family.

10.   I like flowers and books more than diamonds.

11.   I wasn’t made for winter.

12.   I want you in church more so than that I want you to have relationship with God!

13.   I value kindness in a person.

14.   I hate talking on the phone.

15.   I am a country girl that lives in the city.

16.   My room has never really been clean.

17.   Being a parent is the hardest thing I have ever done.

18.   I am not your friend.

19.   I am not a perfectionist more like the opposite.

20.   I can bait my own fish hook.

21.   I am dyslexic and learning was always hard for me.

22.   I have a love hate relationship with sleep.

23.   I don’t do scary movies.

24.   I was afraid of the dark until I was a teenager.

25.   I always wanted to be a Mom so you guys made my dreams come true!

26.   I wanted to write children’s books.

27.   I don’t mean to shout, and I am never proud when I do. I am a work in progress.

28.   I really do believe that one person can make a difference.

29.   I am not good at following a schedule which is a blessing and a curse.

30.   I am romantic and a big old softie!

31.   I like to be creative.

32.   I love a good costume party.

33.   I love what a big part music plays in our lives.

34.   I do not love the zoo.

35.   Flea markets and Yard Sales are two of my favorite things.

36.   My favorite fruit is blackberries.

37.   Driving is not my favorite thing.

38.   I think I like Disney world more than you!

39.   My childhood was a happy one.

40.   I make mistakes, and I will make more along the way, but my love for you is the real thing.

41.   I don’t want you to have a self righteous self of entitlement. In other words don’t be a spoiled brat. Be kind, love big, and be at peace with who God is shaping you to be.

My Favorite Piece of Jewelry!

 

 

 

13 Years of Us!

"For hearing my thoughts,
understanding my dreams,
and being my best friend
For filling my life with music
and loving me without end."

 

13 Years!

Today my sweet husband woke me up with a "Happy Anniversary". It made me smile. This is one of my favorite days of the year.

13 years of marriage and memories. In theory 13 years doesn't really seem like that many years, but when you fall in love at 14, get married at 18, have your first kid at 20, buy your first house at 21 thirteen years sure holds a lot of life. I couldn't have dreamed up a better partner to journey though this life with, and I am looking forward to the many more adventures, memories, joys, and even the tears and trials that life brings our way. All of life's moments have taught us more about each other, more about true love, and more about God's blessings and timing. Today we celebrate all that life lived together, all the life still yet to be lived. Our anniversary the celebration of the foundation on which our family was built. Happy 13th Anniversary to my sweet husband!!!

Our World!
 

10 Things I LOVE about My Husband!

 

1. He loves me and all my faults in a big way!

2. He is a man with a deep faith in God, and in that he is building a strong foundation for his family.

3. How he gets flustered while putting together furniture. (it makes me laugh)

4. He calls me everyday at some point during the day to just check in.

5. From day one he has been an amazing hands on Dad.

6. I love his passion and talent for music.

7. He is intelligent, funny, and lets not forget good looking =)

8. He's a hard-worker, a family man, a lover, a provider, and believer!

9. He isn't afraid to show emotion.

10. He knows me!

 





Growing Up Together....Or at least trying to!

 

 



 I praise God for giving me such a wonderful husband who serves the Lord, and the people around him with a colossal amount of love!!! I am truly one blessed and very loved girl!

 



Letter to Baby

Photo By: Becka Edmonson

Dear Sweet Baby Girl,

I saw you on the ultrasound a few days ago. I cried when they told me you where a girl. I have dreamed of you for so long, and now you are real, and your Dad was just as over joyful as I was. My heart is just so full of happiness I can hardly stand it!

I think about you all the time. It’s hard not to. You are always with me squirming around and kicking your tiny toes against my tummy my favorite part of pregnancy. 

Your brothers are all excited to meet you. They place their hands on my tummy to try to get a feel of you kicking. You often go all shy on them. I wonder if you will be shy. Your brothers are not shy at all. Your oldest brother has already written a song about you.  Your middle brothers are going to smother you in kisses.  You are already loved so much.

I for one toss and turn at night thinking about getting up to feed you, holding and snuggling you in my arms. Wondering what you are going to look like, and what your little personality is going to add to this family.  The excitement level is high, and I can’t wait to meet you my sweet girl. Girl I can’t believe I am saying that, I can’t believe how blessed I am, I can’t believe I will be holding you in only a few short months! How beautiful life is…….

 

 

Think Pink!!!

Photo By: Becka Edmonson

A GIRL...I still can't believe it! It still seems somewhat like I am living in a dream. The boys are over the moon including my husband! It has been so sweet to witness. I still can't get use to saying she. I feel soooo blessed and my heart is overflowing. I stand in awwe when I think about the year and how sad I have been even early in this pregnancy. Even holding my breathe at every appointment and ultrasound waiting to hear the reassurance of a heartbeat, and now God has truly turned my mourning into joy! It's an incredible feeling. Not that I have forgotten or replaced the sweet soul that I lost back in October, but my sweet Savior has answered prayers and been a faithful Father. It's almost overwhelming to even explain right now. Even looking at my sons and seeing the joy and excitement, and how much they have grown over these months. I just can't say enough of what God is and has done for this family! We are overjoyed with the news, and are continuing to pray for her safe arrival into our arms come August!

"For this child I prayed and the Lord has granted me my petition which I asked of Him."

1 Samuel 1:27

Thankfulness Reflections Day 29

Tonight I am thankful for a night off from cooking. It's a nice thing when dinner is brought in. No dirty dishes, no crying at the table, and plenty leftover for lunch tomorrow!  I am thankful we are able to eat out from time to time, and relax afterwards in a nice cozy home with a little Duck Dynasty to entertain us.

Thankfulness Reflections Day 28

I am so thankful for my beautiful in-laws! I was so blessed when I married into this family. They love me like a daughter that was theirs from the beginning of time. They love me despite my faults. They lend helping hands in our times of need. They are amzing Grandparents to my 3 sons! They have poured so much love,hope, and even adventure into this family. I only hope they know just how much they are loved and appericated in return! I am so thankful for the people that they are, and I love them. 

Thankfulness Reflections Day 27

I am thankful for a tight knit family. I take it for granted way to much how close my families are. Not everyone has a family like mine to be thankful for. A family where the line between in-laws and blood relation are blurry. I love spending the holidays and random weekends with our family. I love huge family dinners and long telephone conversions. My family...my in laws, my cousins, my aunts, and uncles, my parents, and brothers, and lets not forget my husband and children! I am so thankful for them all! We are far from perfect and many times a traveling circus, but they are mine and I am theirs!

Thankfulness Reflections Day 23

I am thankful today for my one and only dear old kid brother! I can't imagine a childhood or adulthood for that matter without him. He should have been the oldest because he has always felt like my protector. I can always count on him whether it's for a laugh or to listen!

I am also thankful for my brothers sweet family. I couldn't have dreamed up a better sister in law, and my sweet niece is so full of joy and love. It's impossible not to be smiling when she is around. They both have brought so much to this family!  I heart my brother and his little family!

Thankfulness Reflections Day 22

I am simply thankful for family traditions! I am thankful for family gathered around tables swapping stories from years past. I am thank for children circled around Grandad instruments in hand. I am thankful for the Holiday puzzle strode all over the table. I am thankful for the meal prepared with so much time and extra effort. I am thankful for the cousins running wild, and for every ounce of love that makes our family whole! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Grandad and His Band

Thankfulness Reflections Day 21

Today I am thankful for my sweet hometown. There is nothing like home sweet home! Everything is just a little sweeter in the place where you grew up. This old town holds so many wonderful memories! Memories of my childhood, my teachers, my families, my first date to the homecoming football game, and my very first job so many memories to many to count really!  I am so thankful for all this little country town has given me from lifetime friendships (I love you girls) to little country church where I first met my Savior (I love you Jesus)! I will always be a country girl at heart!!!

Thankfulness Reflections Day 20

I am really just thankful for happy days. Everyone in the house was smiling and happy. It made for such a peaceful day. Even though there was tons of work to be done the day was full of happiness! I am thankful for that. It is a rare day when the boys all get along, and the weather was just icing on the cake! So very thankful for this day! Here's to hoping tomorrow is a repeat!!!!

Thankfulness Reflections Day 16

Today I am so thankful that my children have two sets of Grandparents that love them very much. They are always willing to help out in anyway they can, and have a pretty magical way they connect with each of the boys. I feel blessed to just get to witness these relationships between our parents and our children.  I believe my kids are building life long memories with all their grandparents, and that's a pretty special thing to be able to have!

"What children need most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance. They give unconditional love, kindness, patience, humor, comfort, lessons in life. And, most importantly, cookies". ~Rudolph Giuliani

Thankfulness Reflections Day 7

Thankfulness Reflections Day 7

Today I am thankful for my little man. He is not so little anymore, but he is still Mommy's boy. My curly headed energetic Cooper. He loves the outdoors, being barefoot, and superheroes, and has a special place in his heart for the sidekicks. Maybe that comes with being the youngest brother. I love his  little smile, and his sweet little arms wrapping around me for hugs. I love the way he laughs out loud, and makes up jokes that make no sense. He is the peacemaker, the hugger, the one liner, and lets not forget the little brute of the family.  My heart is so full of love for this  sweet little boy who brings me so much joy. I am so thankful that I get to spend my days with him. I will sure miss him next year when off to school he will go.

My Sweet Cooper!  (Photo By: Becka Edmonson)

Loss and My Heart's Journey Forward

REMEMBER ME
"No feet are so small that they can not leave an imprint on this world."
Photo By Becka Edmonson

To say the days have been trying lately would be a slight understatement. I have cried most days, some days more than others, but every day since October 17^th has held tears. I have found myself wishing and praying for just one day to be tearless. That prayer is yet to be answered. The unexpected loss of our unborn child was something my heart was unprepared for. And while I know this time will pass in time, put most simply, I feel broken.

For now I find myself trying to wait patiently while my God puts me back together. It’s like rebuilding a foundation of who God wants you to become in the new season after the grieving season passes, because I will never be the same person as before. A miscarriage is not something that is just forgotten. I believe I will always carry a sense of sadness with me. The emptiness will be filled with time and only a hole will be left behind in my heart for the child that I never got to hold, kiss or give a name. A child that the world will soon forget even existed. The child that made my world stand still in a flood of tears as the rest of the world raced around past me. For those reasons and many more I know I am to be a different, maybe even more compassionate, person on the other side of this mourning process.

 

I know that days will get easier. The pain of heartbreak, like I have never experienced before, will become more forbearing and life really will move forward. Time will allow for happiness to return, prayers will be answered and hearts to be restored.

 

A high school teacher of mine once shared a story with me one day during a difficult time. The story was about a King troubled with worries and trials. So the King called on his counsel to create a motto…”This too Shall Pass Away”. I have always loved that story and always remember the day Mr. Moles shared it with me, but it has never brought me more strength, and peace than in these days of a great loss. I have thought of it often and been so grateful that my sweet teacher took the time to share it with me that day so many years ago. It really just goes to show that life is bigger than we realize. Who knew a story shared with me 14 or so years ago would bring me such comfort in my adult life.

 

Life is hard, and life is filled with defining moments, however God’s plan for us is big picture. He alters us into more of the people he wants us to become if we allow him access. We don’t always understand His plan or see the big picture and that’s okay. It’s not always easy. It’s even painful at times, but He does love us and He weeps with us in our moments of sadness(Psalms 116). He also gives strength and peace in those moments of life's terrible trials that we never thought we had access to. He does not forsake us and he does not leave us alone(Hebrews 13:5).

 

Below is an adaption of the story and poem that my highschool teacher shared with me.

 

 

This Too, Shall Pass Away*

In times of trial an old Indian legend has given me much comfort. A king, who suffered many hours of discouragement, urged his courtiers to devise a motto, short enough to be engraved on a ring, which should be suitable alike in prosperity and adversity. After many suggestions had been rejected his daughter offered an emerald bearing the inscription in Arabic, “This, too, will pass.” –Said the poet.

Whate’er thou art, where’er thy footsteps stray,
Heed these wise words: This, too, shall pass away.
Oh, jewel sentence from the mine of truth!
What riches it contains for age or youth.
No stately epic measured and sublime,
So comforts, or so counsels, for all time
As these few words. Go write them on your heart
And make them of your daily life a part
Art thou in misery, brother? Then I pray
Be comforted! Thy grief shall pass away.
Art thou elated? Ah, be not too gay;
Temper thy joy; this, too, shall pass away.
Fame, glory, place, and power,
They are but little baubles of the hour.
Thus, be not o’er proud,
Nor yet cast down; judge thou aright;
When skies are clear, expect cloud;
In darkness, wait the coming light
Whatever be thy fate today,
Remember, even this, shall pass away!
- Adapted by: Mr. Alexander

Thankfulness Reflections Day 2

Thankfulness Reflections Day 2

Today I am grateful for my childhood. I have only happy memories there. I think my happy childhood says something about my wonderful parents. I am grateful for the childhood I was given, and I believe they played the biggest part in that. I am thankful for all the childhood friendships that where made both the ones that have endured a lifetime and those that time let slip away. I am truly thankful for all the happy memories my childhood has given to me.

Me and My Best Childhood Buddy Beau All Those Years Ago

Thankfulness Reflections Day 1

November the month of the year that has us all reflecting on what we are most thankful for. Everyone has something to be thankful for even if it's as small as a blooming rose or as big a great love for Christ. Being thankful is so important. Thankfulness leads to a more joyful and love filled life, and joy is one of God's promises. No one can take away the joy God puts into your life and heart unless you let them.  Happiness is controlled by the circumstances around us while joy is still alive and present even during our darkest days and toughest storms. So my friends I hope that you are thankful, loved, and joyful everyday. Have wonderful time reflecting and speaking of your thankfulness this month and every month after! Happy Thanksgiving MONTH!!!

1 Thessalonians 5:18   "In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

 

Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

"Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. " ~ Theodore Roosevelt, 1901

 

Thankfulness Reflection Day 1, 2012

 

Today I am thankful for my husband. This past month as been the toughest of our lives and he has been nothing but strong and loving. He is my rock and calmness. He leads this family well with the authority given to him by Christ. He is a treasured father to our boys.  I can't imagine my world without this partner in life. Everyday I truly fall deeper in love with this man, and even in the midst of trails our love grows, and for that and for him I am so forever thankful! He is the reason I know that true love is real, and soul mates absolutely last forever!

 

 

Thankfulness for My Sweet Husband  (Photograph by Becka Edmonson"



2012 Costume Fun

COSTUME FUN 2012

Barney Fife the Younger Years



Hook and Pan....."Why can't we be friends"



Peter Pan

The Doll, Hook, Barney Fife, and a Grumpy Peter..."He lost his Shadow"

Super Easy DIY Silhouette

I am always looking for little DIY projects to make my house a home. I love art work that actually has meaning behind it. So my latest project I came across via pinterest which lead me to The Mama Dramalogues.  The Mama Dramalogues is an adorable little blog run by a group of Mommies. They share many adorable ideas you should totally stop by and check them out. Any Who I love the super simple silhouette how to brought to us by Holly. I completed this little project today in less than 30 minutes, and I loved how these turned out of my 3 sons. I love these little framed keepsakes of my children's childhood!  Super cute and super easy. For directions on how to make your own click HERE!

Chore Jar List

Several people have asked me what kind of chores I put in my kids chore jar and behavior chart. So I thought I would share the list of chores with everyone. I tried to make them fairly simple chores that could be achieved with little help from Mom.


I also wanted to update everyone on how the new behavior chart system is working for us. So far it works really well. The boys hate having to move their clips and we have never made it to the chore chart option at the bottom as of yet. Losing 30 minutes of bedtime is about as far as we go on any given day. One of my sons is as stubborn as they come and usually falls in the floor like the world is ending when I make him pull a clip, even though the tantrum itself gets another clip pulled(I don't know why he hasn't figured that out yet). All this to say the act of making them pull their clips themselves seems to be enough to get thier attention. On most days just a little reminder that the clip system is in order and breaking the family rules has consequences is just the thing that keeps the Garrett household in controlled chaos order! Because lets be real....when raising three boys, life is never in perfect order, but this is helping.

The list of chores I Included in my chore jar:

1. Scrub baseboards

2. Clean under sofa

3. Organize bookshelves

4. Pick up sticks from yard

5. Sweep Hallway

6. Scrub toilets

7. Clean out bottom of fridge

8. 10 write offs ….( I will follow the rules)

9. Say I am sorry

10. Take out bathroom trash

11. Wash table

12. Clean under bed

13. Write an I am sorry letter

14. Second chance…Wow you're LUCKY

15. Give someone a hug

16. Help a family member out

17. Ask what you can do to help

18. Get all trash out of van

19. Make everyone’s bed in the house

20. Set the table at the next meal

21. Load or unload silverware from dishwasher

22. Write down 5 things you are thankful for today

23. Sharpen all the pencils in jar

24. Laundry (ask mom)

25. Draw out two chores….bummer

26. Think of your own chore and do it well

27. Sort laundry

28. Organize Wii games

29. Scrub behind toilet

30. Write a letter to someone of your choice

31. Read a book

32. Write down 3 things you love about each family member in this house.

33. Find something to donate

34. Organize one toy section/box

35. Read a book to one of your brothers

36. All outside toys in backyard

37. Vacuum

38. Dust

39. Organize dish towel drawer

40. Organize utensil drawer

If you missed the behavior chart system blog the first time around you can find it by clicking HERE.

AntinaArt "handmade creations that matter"

Recently I attended a ladies craft night hosted by a sweet friend. Crafting at my table was the lovely Christina Ryan, a Nashville 3^rd grade teacher and owner of AntinaArt. Christina runs the company as a team with her husband Anthony, who takes care of all the computer related elements to the business. Christina handcrafts beautiful and charming family jewelry that easily has all the qualities to become heirloom pieces known as AntinaArt. What I found most appealing about these homespun family nest necklaces are that each piece is uniquely crafted to fit your own little treasured family. The necklaces are custom designed and lovingly made to celebrate you and what you hold dear. AntinaArt has a large selection of budget friendly, handcrafted jewelry on their Etsy shop that opened in March of 2012. The family nest necklaces make the perfect gift for so many celebrated occasions Mothers Day, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, baby showers or just a simple I love gift! I love a personalized handcrafted piece of jewelry. Actually, I loved Christina’s Jewelry so much that I ordered my very own with five little family eggs surrounded perfecting by a copper nest. So, I can vouch for the suburb customer service, speedy delivery, and products that are now one of my favorite pieces of jewelry.

A Small Selection Of AntinaArt Bird Nest Jewelry

Christina was sweet enough to let me interview her about her jewelry and inspirations behind the business. Take a peek inside AntinaArt with the answers that Christina delivers. Oh and a little tip before we get started with the interview if you visit her etsy shop there is a free shipping code if you order before Mothers Day! Hint Hint!!! Better Hurry! Just click AntinaArt anywhere in the blog for a direct link to her shop.

My Sweet Family Nest Christina Custom Made for Me in the Copper

Interview with AntinaArt’s Christina Ryan

Q: First off you are obliviously very talented. How did you discover the art of jewelry making?

A: I have always loved doing crafty type things, but honestly, always kind of stunk at creating things but tried none the less. So, one day I had some teacher friends over for a craft night and we decided to try to make a pendant “nest” from wire and I kind of had a knack for it. While we sat there messing with wire and drinking wine I actually said “wouldn’t it be so fun to just sit at home and make jewelry all day” (and drink wine, of course) and they all thought I was crazy.  So the next day I went out and bought a bunch of supplies and practiced making anything I could from the wire. After about 20 tries and several “how to” YOUTUBE videos, I created the perfect little “nest” necklace. I made one for my sister and several friends and realized that they were a hit.

Q: You and your husband run the business as a team correct? What roles does each of you play?

A: When we started our little business a few months ago, we knew we wanted to do it together. We are a team in all that we do and this was no different. We are VERY different in almost every aspect. Anthony is a computer nerd so he takes care of all the shipping details, website design and any other computer or number related thing. I make jewelry. J

Q: I noticed have several unique jewelry pieces in your shop. Is the bird nest jewelry the most popular?

A: I have always loved birds. I have a little birdie (peace dove) tattoo on my foot and love the freedom they represent. One of my favorite verses in the bible is Matthew 6:26 "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? This just reminds me of the trust they have and free spirited, worry free lives they lead. I try to remember to live my life the same way.

Q: The name of your Etsy shop is AntinaArt tell us about the name and where it originated from?

A: Well, my husbands name is Anthony and mine is Christina, so we married the two to get Antina then we just thought Art sounded cool at the end of it.

Q: What or where do you draw the most inspiration from?

A: My obsession with birds really helps. Haha.

Q: Have you been surprised by the response to your jewelry?

A: YES! I had no idea that so many people would love the jewelry as much as I do. Our long term goal is to use the proceeds from our jewelry business to adopt or conceive a baby. We have prayed that God would make a way for us in this area, and I think AntinaArt is a part of His answer. J

Q: What do you want your costumers to know more than anything else?

A: One thing that I want our customers to know is that the piece of jewelry that they order is all about them and their family so we want them to be a part of the whole process and any special requests or ideas they have we will create on their behalf.

Q: I personally love your shops motto “handmade creations that matter”. Can you explain a little more about that and what it means to you?

A: I feel like our jewelry isn’t just something pretty that you throw on to match your outfit that day. Instead it represents your family or grandchildren or something sentimental and symbolic to you. Almost all of our customers order our jewelry for a deeper meaning, whether it is for a wedding gift, a mommy gift or something special they can keep on them throughout the day to represent their children and family.

Q: What is your favorite jewelry creation to date?

A: My favorite piece would have to be the nest necklace that has the mommy, daddy and babies all wrapped up in a nest. I love that it represents the whole family (even the daddy)!

Q: How are some of the ways people are can order or find jewelry?

A: All of our jewelry is displayed on our etsy store just click here on AntinaArt

You can also click here to  find AntinaArt on facebook!