The Macs » Blog

Levi wanted to show you his new shirt.
He can hardly believe what it says.
I’ve been trying to tell him that it is BIG news.
But he told me he already is SO BIG.
We are thrilled to announce that Levi is going to be a big brother.
Baby Mac #3 coming in September!!
sharepinTweet

Friday the weather was so nice, but such a tease for the rest of the weekend.
The rest of the weekend has been COLD.
In fact, snow is falling right now as I type this.
I thought winter was supposed to be over??
I guess it has been a good weekend to stay bundled up inside watching lots of basketball.
Levi thinks otherwise.
He prefers to be outside over watching basketball.
So, on Friday we played outside as much as we could.
Levi really likes sitting himself down on the back step now.
We got out some sand toys and he worked in the flower beds.
Such a helpful little guy.
And when he got tired he went back to resting on the step.
Oh, and he has almost outgrown those cute little Converse shoes.
How does that happen so fast?
But even with all the fun new things he is learning to do,
he still reverts to eating rocks.
At least he is polite.
He always offers one to his mama too.
* * * * * * * * *

The winner of the Danielle Moss pre-made template is:

#83 Benae!!!

Congratulations Benae! Please e-mail me to claim your prize. And don’t forget the discount that Danielle is still offering to the rest of my readers:

Discount is good through TONIGHT, Sunday, March 27th. Place your deposit for a custom design or order your pre-made by tonight and send Danielle an e-mail to let her know that you came from The Macs.
* * * * * * * * *

I finally finished Levi’s shirt. My first fabric dying project is done and it was so fun. I may be addicted now! I’ll show it to you tomorrow. And I have another giveaway lined up for this week too. Hope you had a good weekend. See you in the morning!
sharepinTweet
  • Vera - It’s rainy and cold here too, so I just spent the weekend sewing and watching movies. Levi is so adorable! He’s a just a few weeks older than my little boy, and they seem so similar in their interests (and the holes in the knees of the jeans – we have those too! BOYS!)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Oh you have to put the first picture of him sitting on the steps into a black and white picture. love it!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Allen and Debby Graber - Thanks for lunch today!! We just think the world of Levi and loved his blow kisses!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kimbra DenHartog - Jess-I LOVE these pictures of Levi-he is so cute and reminds me of Logan, our little 18 month old.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tara - i must know where you bought his jeans. absolute freakin’ cutest little boy jeans evahhh. love ’em. and the shoes. sad they are already gettin’ too little. they just grow up wayyy too fast!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sarah - It’s cold here too. I am definitely ready for spring.

    http://www.thisfarmfamilyslife.blogspot.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

The Spring cleaning is in full swing around here. The closets are mostly done…unfortunately the paper piles are mostly still here. I think the paper de-cluttering may take me a few weeks…or a few months. So, I decided to do some Spring cleaning on my blog instead. It is much more fun. Probably because I don’t have to do any of the work. I just send my ideas and pictures to Danielle and she makes my blog space look beautiful. If only that would work with cleaning my house too. A girl can dream.
You can find Danielle over at Danielle Moss Graphic Design and Photography. She can’t help you with cleaning your house, but she can make your blog look beautiful!
She has some great pre-made blog templates starting at just $25…
Danielle also does custom blog designs…like my blog. Did you notice the two new headers? I love the first one so much. It is such a good representation of my family. All four of us…three of us here on earth and Cora in heaven. Separated for just a little while.
Danielle also does photography, stationary & print, logos & graphic design, and digital scrapbook kits. Make sure you check out her website.
Not only did Danielle make my blog so lovely, but she is offering a special discount to my readers.
Yeah!
Discount is good through Sunday, March 27th. Place your deposit for a custom design or order your pre-made by Sunday and send Danielle an e-mail to let her know that you came from The Macs.
It gets better…
Danielle is also giving away a pre-made blog template to one lucky reader!!
Giveaway Details:

Pre-made blog template by Danielle Moss

ONE winner chosen at random

Up to three entries per person

Giveaway ends Friday, March 25th at 10pm (CST)

To enter go check out Danielle’s pre-made templatesΒ and
leave a comment on this post telling me your favorite pre-made design

Want extra entries?Β 
Get up to two extra entries by becoming a follower of Danielle’s blogΒ 
or becoming a follower of The Macs!
sharepinTweet

Just a quick hello on Monday.
Today was full of all things I had not planned.
I had planned on getting caught up…like any normal Monday.
Cleaning my house…
making food for company tomorrow night…
and taking time to go over what I am sharing tomorrow with a MOPS group.
Instead most of my day was spent comforting this poor baby.
He is still fighting some sickness.
So we went to the doctor today instead.
Levi has ear infections now too.
Yuck. No wonder he has been so grouchy.
I did manage to get a smile or two out of him despite the many tears.
It is hiding behind that pacifier that he is not really supposed to have.
But a sick baby needs his pacifier to get through the day.
Now Levi is sound asleep and I am taking some time to think and pray about tomorrow. As I was reading through my notes I was struck by how one of the same struggles I am sharing about, was a struggle again today. Since we welcomed Levi into our family he has brought so much joy into our lives. But along with the joys has come a whole new realm of trusting God for me. I easily could life my life as a sad, worried, and over-protective mom after losing Cora. I get a pit in my stomach every time we visit the doctor…which happened again today. Sometimes it is hard for me to even hold back the tears because I don’t know if I am being a paranoid mom or if Levi is really sick. Thankfully Levi’s pediatrician is so patient with me. So again today, I had to pray that I would embrace the fullness of who Jesus is – the ultimate answer to my deepest needs. He is faithful and by my side through every ear infection and doctor visit. He understands my fears and tears. May I always be faithful to trust Him.
Not the Monday I planned, but a good reminder of something God has continually been working on in my heart. And I got in some extra cuddling time with my little Levi. He is so busy these days I need to take advantage of every moment…cuddling doesn’t happen very often any more. If you have time would you say a prayer for me tomorrow morning as I share? I am praying that the Lord would use His truths that I have been standing firm on to encourage the ladies who are there tomorrow.
sharepinTweet
  • songskatesang - Jess, I will be lifting you up in prayer tomorrow. Sweet dreams, friend!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Janet Rhea - You are in my prayers, as you and your family have been for many months. I am also praying that your sweet son soon feels better.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Immeasurably More Mama - Praying this morning, Jess!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Andrea - Praying for you and sweet Levi πŸ™‚ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Toni :O) - Awww…poor Levi, I hope he’s on the mend soon and I will certainly be praying for you today….good luck, you’ll do GREAT!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Nancy - Praying for you & Levi!!
    I get our kids chiropractic adjustments & it takes care of ear infections – are there any good pediatric chiro’s in your area? And with each adjustment, it boosts their immune system.
    Just food for thought πŸ™‚
    I will pray he is much better today!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Missy - Just prayed for you! I know those ladies will be so thankful to have heard what you have to say. Thanks for allowing God to use you and your story. And prayers for Levi’s ears!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Wanting What I Have - Praying for you this morning!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • lauren haddox - last night i was reading in psalms and i jotted down this verse…”he will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” psalm 112:7

    having a child has brought trusting the Lord to a whole new level…praying God would speak through you today!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Jess, I know and understand the fear that you have inside when your precious Levi is sick. My sweet daughter, Claire, died of SIDS 14 years ago last month. Our life was shattered, but God never left our side. When our daughter, Alyssa, was born two years after Claire’s death, I was so worried that I would lose her too. But, the unbelievable peace that God gave me, made me realize that Alyssa was going to be ok. And, she was…..today, she is a beautiful, sweet 12 year old. God is so good! xoxox

    Melanie Martini
    Rochester, MNReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Boccias - Praying for you. See you soon!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sue - Just prayed for you! After losing Cora, I don’t know how you couldn’t have the fear that you do. Any mother would. When I prayed for you this morning, I also prayed that you would always have the peace that can only come from Him- and that Levi would always be an especially healthy guy.

    As always, your faith and your heart are beautiful. You are a wonderful witness for Jesus.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Susy M. - Jess, you will do great and shine in the glory of the Lord. Levi, get well quickly because we all want you 100%. You make us all a little happier.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Rachel - Praying for you and your sweet boy to feel better, too!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Meg - I couldn’t imagine being in your shoes. I think the view you take on life is incredible. Kudos to you. I’m sorry your little boy has an ear infection, yuck. Hopefully that little sweetie will start feeling better soon.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tara - hope that levi feels better soon! and praying that you are an encouragement for lots of mamas today. πŸ™‚ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Laurie - Jess, you are the kind of mom I hope I am. My baby girl will be one this Thursday and when I check in on your blog, you always remind me of what is important in life. Thank you. I am praying for you.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Allison - Whenever you post about taking Levi to the doctor, I think about how hard that must be. How could it not be? Blessings to you as you continue to find a balance between worry and trust.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sue - Praying for you Jess. May our God surround you with an undescribable peace as you speak with your group. God Bless you and your family.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kylie and crew. - Jess….I can only imagine what sickness in Levi does to your heart. My daughter Cora had 103 fevers yesterday and Tylenol would do nothing! You crossed my mind…what if there is more to Cora’s sickness….thankfully today it’s better but just from reading blogs I have to battle fear that creeps in and continually give my family to the Lord! Oh this life we live…constant growing and surrendering. I’m thankful we serve a patient God!

    Praying for you this morning!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Moffats - Praying for you, Jess. I’m sure the Lord used you mightily and spoke through you. Sorry to hear that Levi is sick again πŸ™ Hopefully the nice weather will be here soon and the sickness will be long gone! Love and hugs, friend.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Praying for you…. have you heard this song? Thought you’d enjoy it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ&feature=related You would especially appreciate the story behind the song.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • laney - …go look out your window…the whole sky is filled with prayers for you…ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Will be praying tomorrow. Jess, your honesty is always such a blessing to me. I don’t think anyone who reads your blog or who knows your story could imagine you feeling any different about going to the drs. office. Enjoy your ex tra cuddle time with little Levi. My sweet boy is 14 and I swear he was one just the other day!!
    PamReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristin - feel better little Levi!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marla Taviano - Praying for you, Jess. That must be soooo hard when Levi is sick. Praying for peace for you and quick healing for your precious little guy.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Brooke - prayers….your words have a way of touching me. You put things in perspective and make me look to God more. You are an amazing person and thank you for sharing your life.
    BrookeReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelly McG - I have been reading your blog for a while and I don’t think I have ever commented. My twins were born just after your Cora and every time I take them to the doctor I think about your sweet Cora. I can only imagine what it must be like to parent another child after a loss, I tear up thinking about your pain. I pray that God can continue to give you peace and faith. Big hugs.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Chad and Jody - I open this blog up often, but today I was struck at how old Levi looks today! What a cutie!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • the sleepy time gal - that poor little guy! i hope he recovers speedily.

    and i just wanted to tell you that the green fabric you asked about on the sleepy time gal is from IKEA!

    nice to meet you.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Baby Kate's Mom - Aww, poor little guy! Even though they look nothing alike he reminds me of my almost nine month old! Especially the crying one LOL! Prayed for you Tuesday, along with continuing to pray for you daily.

    Hugs from Florida,
    Krista
    aka babykatesmomReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Our Lives - I have been following your story since Cora was in the hospital. I remember crying and praying for you and your family every time I visited your blog at that time. Today when I was reading about Levi’s doctor visit and the ear infection, my stomach got tighten up as well. But thanks be to God that we know Him and we know His love and that He has a purpose for all that is taking place in our lives. I will continue to pray for little Levi, and you and your husband – and yes, cuddling time is short especially for boys. Enjoy him while you can still “hold him down”. πŸ™‚ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

Wow! How encouraging to read the promises of God that you all are standing under. It brightened my weekend! I know that many of you are facing some really hard things. I am so thankful that God’s truth is an anchor for our lives even through the storms. Keep standing under the shelter of God’s promises!

Here are the book winners:


A:Β today the promise i am standing under is based on job 42:2: I know You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.Β great giveaway! i hope i win πŸ˜‰

Colleen:Β …that His JOY is my strength!

Jessica:Β “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32Β Thanks for hosting the giveaway!

The Schillings from Cimarron:Β Hi Jess,Β How are you? As always I am reading and smiling at your blog! You are such an inspiration to so many. You have shown me the way so many times and brought me back to what is important! Bless you for that! Give Levi and Joel a big hug for us! Still pray for you daily and wishing you lots of love from above! miss you all! God’s love is forever in my heart and daily life. “Love NEVER fails” and so is God’s promise to love and forgive those that are lost and in need.

Rob and Corrie:Β Oh! The other night I sat down and went thro’ some specific things that were on my heart, and promise from Scripture that “took care of” each one of them!Β So tonight, I am thankful that “His divine power has granted to us ALL THINGS THAT PERTAIN TO LIFE AND GODLINESS, through the knowledge of Him who called us to His own glory and excellence…” {II Pt. 1:3}Β Love and thanks.
Congrats ladies! Please e-mail me your mailing address so that I can send you your book.
sharepinTweet