The Macs » Blog

***UPDATED: SOLD OUT***
Opening again tomorrow.
Around 10:00 am (CST).
15 long-sleeve dresses.
1 skirt.
And a few other things.
I know…it’s summer.
But think ahead to next fall.
Or an upcoming baby shower.
Or maybe you live somewhere cold…perfect!
These dresses are really cute with leggings too.
Our next set of dresses will be short sleeve again.
We’ll start working on those soon.
See ya tomorrow!
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Anonymous - WILL THERE BE BOY ITEMS LISTED?ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • jennifer - They do have some cute white short sleeved shirts at Walmart…size 6 girls. (hint hint)! 😉 Love the dresses!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Chrissy - YAY! I finally get to shop here! We JUST got our adopted 9 month old twins a couple of weeks ago! YAY!!!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Karina - I was right there, I watched the shop go from empty to fully stocked, I clicked all over the place trying to buy a dress…and they all disappeared before my eyes. 🙁

    I wanted the 24-mos. size, or the skirt for an older girl. I have been trying to get something for my daughter since you opened shop and she is now over 2 years old! Every time I thought I got a dress…it said sold by the time the picture opened. So disappointed…ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Traci - I finally have a Cora Dress!!! This made my day!!! I have followed your blog so long and you are such an inspiration to me! Thank you!!! Will be watching for the next bunch – need something in 24 month and 4 toddler 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Beki - TheRustedChain - You are a doll.

    If you wanna get real crazy and make more Tripp shirts, we could use another American Flag one. Size 4t. *ahem* 🙂

    They’d be perfect for 4th of July!
    My little guy still wears his, but I have to squeeze him into it.

    Hope you’re doing well!
    Haven’t talked to you in a while, but I think about you daily.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • hoosier68 - So excited to get a dress for my newest granddaughter due in August. Now she and her big sister will both have very special Cora dresses.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Christine S. - Super cute dresses as always! I am excited for the next round with short sleeved dresses. Will there be any in bigger sizes such as 4T-5T or bigger? My daughter loves her Cora skirts and I would love to have a dress for her. Beautiful items!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • JM - You know, you could seriously make this a full time business. You sell out within seconds every time you put stuff in your shop. I would love to get something from you 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

I was so excited to see this week that my peonies are finally blooming. My father-in-law helped me plant them in our yard last spring. He has a green thumb, so it is a really good thing that he was helping me. He actually got them to plant next to Cora’s memorial stone. But when spring came around last year we hadn’t put Cora’s stone in yet. So we planted them in my yard instead. We are hoping to transplant some of them this fall. But for now, I am enjoying the pretty pink blooms.

Cora is buried in a country cemetery near our house. I actually could walk there if I wanted to. And I drive by it all the time. I like that because I can “check on her” from a distance. But honestly, I really don’t like going to the cemetery. I know it is very healing for some people. And maybe that will change for me. But right now, I just don’t like it. To me the cemetery is full of reminders of death and caskets and funerals. And I hate that. I hate letting my mind go back to the pain and trauma of having to bury my little girl. It is too hard.

But one thing I love about her cemetery is that their are peonies everywhere. It is just beautiful around this time of year. And for the short two weeks or so that the peonies bloom, it is such an awesome reminder to me of LIFE…even in the cemetery. And I love that. Because we serve a God who has conquered death–a God of LIFE. And Cora’s life continues beyond the grave. I need to be reminded of that so often.

So we thought that Cora needed her own peonies. Pink of course. And I have a feeling that taking a trip to Cora’s peonies in the spring might become a family tradition. We could even bring some back to the house as a reminder of Cora’s precious life. A reminder of that incredible day when we will see Cora again and live for eternity in the presence of God. What a sweet day that will be.

I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, the home of God is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will remove all their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.”
Revelation 21:3-4
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • A - My peonies are blooming right now, too- and in addition to how pretty they are, they smell so good!! My aunt (master gardener) told me that they don’t like being transplanted (mine didn’t come up the first season after they were transplanted)- just in case you’d rather get a fresh plant so it will bloom right away! You and your family are always in my prayers 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jen - I LOVE peonies also. Especially the pink ones 🙂
    Praying for you!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I bet they are beautiful..just has beautiful as your sweet Cora..I don’t like going to the cemetary either..I want to remember them as they lived..we will be with them again oneday…

    always thinking and praying for you guys.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Beki - TheRustedChain - Amen, amen, and amen!!

    This is beautiful Jess.
    I love the hot pink peonies the most.

    I will forever look at hot pink and green differently because of you and Cora.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marla Taviano - The words “Cora is buried” hurt just to read. I can’t imagine living them. Praying for you tonight as you miss your sweet baby girl.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Holli Taylor - Such a sweet remembrance during such a difficult time. They are such sweet and beautiful flowers. Even the ants can’s resist! That’s what I remember most about my mom’s growing up. How perfect is that? A plant and flower so sweet that even the lowliest creatures can’t deny!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Taking Heart - Precious.

    Your scripture is perfect.

    Thanks for stopping by my blog.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - My father died over 25 years and I still don’t like to go to the cemetery. I would much rather think about all of the good times I had with him. My dad was buried near a beautiful cherry tree. When I see the cherry trees blossom in the Spring it reminds me of him.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marsha - What a beautiful reminder of God’s everlasting love. Praying for you guys!

    Love,

    Marsha in VAReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Stephanie - Amen!
    Oh I can’t wait for that glorious day!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • hoosier68 - Peonies have long been a family favorite for us and stand tall next to my family headstones. What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful little girl. Your posts always bring me to tears. You continue to be in my daily prayers.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lauren Kelly - Sooo beautiful and what a sweet reminder of precious Cora!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mindee@ourfrontdoor - Peonies are my favorite garden flower. Such showy, unabashed loveliness! They will be a lovely addition to the cemetery.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Melissa Joy - I need some peonies. I really do.
    Thinking of you often. Walking the road of grief with you.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Bec - I finally worked up the courage to go visit my uncle’s grave this past weekend. He’s buried in a beautiful country cemetery up on a hill in the middle of nowhere. I think he knew that it would be a peaceful, beautiful place for us to visit. It was still hard, but it is hard to not feel God’s presence in a place like that and to be comforted.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Donna H - Thank you for the verse. I needed to see that today.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Carisa - My mom died 5 years ago this spring and I still don’t like to visit the cemetary. We just recently buried my grandpa, very near to my mom, and even that was difficult. I used to feel guilty about not visiting, but it’s not a comforting thing for me, so I released myself from having to do it. It works much better for me to share photos and memories with my own girls rather than visit her grave. I know exactly what you are saying.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amber - I know just how you feel about the grave site. I’ve only gone to visit Mark’s 2 times since he was buried there.

    I’m glad you found something that is a ‘happy’ way to remember her.

    Also you helped me identify the flowers in my backyard thanks!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Trina S. - Just found your blog and am veryyyyy touched by your family’s story!

    Love the peonies! They are soooo soooo beautiful!

    I know Cora would loooove them too!

    Trina
    http://www.mommeville.com(blog)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • teresa - such beautiful peonies! and pink for Cora ~ that is dear.

    this summer it will be 30 years since my husband (then only 25 y/o) died of cancer. i learned to go to the cemetary when i was ‘up’ emotionally, not on a specific date or when the weather was dismal or i was having a rough day.

    so grateful for his life and his memory. most grateful for his faith in Jesus and that one day we’ll be in the glorious presence of the Father.

    thanks for sharing your heart.

    love & prayers,ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lacie and Stephen - I know exactly what you mean about living so close to the cemetary and not wanting to really go “check on her.” We buried our little girl in a cemetary not far from our house (a little farther than walking distance though). It reminded us of where our grandparents are burried. It is such a lovely place during the spring and in the fall you can actually see the cornfield from my daughter’s grave site. It is so hard to go there though. When we do, we just think about the day we had to put her in the ground. That was the hardest day for me. So glad you have the peonies to remind you of new life and God’s promise that we WILL see our children again some day! And as the song says, “And all will be glory in that land!”

    Lacie Hutchins
    WichitaReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • jennifer rogers - that was very beautifully writtenReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jenifer's Journey - I love the Pink Peonies and that they grown around Cora’s grave even tho we all rather her run and play with them and help you plant them …
    Preying for youReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tricia - There could be no more beautiful flower to celebrate your sweet Cora.

    With love and prayers,
    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sophia - I was in Walmart yesterday and saw a fake pink Peonie in a vase and immediately thought of you, and this post.
    What a gift you have at seeing symbolism in the blooming of this flower and the life of your daughter…ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Christina - Beautiful post, and that passage from Revelation is so wonderful. I want to use the word beautiful again!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • SammyGene - I read this post yesterday and thought of you today when I saw on the Martha Stewart Show they explained how to preserve peonies for six months… I didn’t check on-line but I am sure there is a post on her website.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

Seriously mom.
I am almost 20 pounds.
My head touches the top of the bassinet,
and my feet touch the bottom.
Don’t you think it is time for me to move to my own room?
Let’s just say I have been having a hard time letting go.
Levi has been sleeping in this bassinet next to our bed since he was born.
It is the same one that Cora slept in.
Except my brother made a really cool bassinet stand for Levi.
Cora moved to the crib when she was three months old.
I thought we would do the same with Levi.
But I was really struggling with him being in another room this time.
I like being able to peek over at him in the middle of the night.
I like being able to reach my hand over and make sure he is still breathing.
I held out as long as I could.
But he seriously was outgrowing the thing.
He would hold onto both handles with his little hands.
He even started rocking it a little.
It just might have become a little bit of a safety issue. :o)
So I gave in and Levi officially moved into his own room last week.
I’m slowly getting used to it.
And I think he likes having a little extra room in his crib.
The poor guy was crammed in that bassinet.
Cora’s room is transforming into Levi’s room.
I am almost done.
I am working on a little painting this week.
I still need to add something on the windows too.
I can’t wait to show it to you when I’m done.
In the mean time,
I’ll try to work on letting go a little.
It is so hard though.
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Kristi REDISKE - He is so precious-and your posts are so cute and honest, love it. I can’t wait to see his room-you are very talented-you are amazing. I still pray for your family.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Moffats - loved this post – it made me smile. Such darling pictures…all stretched out touching the top and bottom 🙂 Can’t wait to see the room. I’m sure it will be perfect.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Laura Ann - This is so funny to me. I love it and Levi reminds me so much of my little boy who is not 14 months old. He was very big, just like your guy. The bassinet worked for us for about 2 weeks. My daughter stayed in the cradle 6 months, he lasted weeks and then went to his bed.

    Levi is a beautiful little boy and so happy. Thanks for sharing. Always praying for you.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Morgan Paige - He is PRECIOUS!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Bethany - He is such a sweetie.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Devon - aw, this post was cracking me up! and yet, i know how hard it is to let go….good job mama!

    can’t wait to see his new room! and i’m so sad cora can’t be there to share in all your joy….ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennjilla - Awww, what a sweet boy! He is so precious!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • purejoy - letting go is so hard… especially for a child so dear. the bassinet stand is so beautiful. mmmm. i wnat to give my kids basket bassinets like that when they have babies. how easy for them to sleep on the go, too.
    he’s absolutely beautiful!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Hoosier Mom - what a sweet boy… and a loving Mommy! It is hard to let go… my son just finished his 3rd year in college and I still miss him tons when he is gone to school. Never gets any easier : )ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marla Taviano - Aw, Jess. Praying for you!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amanda - We laughed out loud at these pictures! I know this is just one more thing you have to get used to. I’m so glad Levi is liking his crib – but I’m so sad you are having to adjust to one more tough thing. Soon his room is going to be full of cars, balls and blocks -and you’ll walk in and step all over things or stub your foot in the dark – and you won’t even have a chance to think about anything else!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Mershawn's - He’s just too cute. Hard to take those little squishy things & stick them in a room all by themselves. I had a hard time with my baby a few months ago. Maybe it’s a boy thing. Maybe I’m just more of a softie. Maybe because we know how fast it all goes….sigh. It’ll get better. Sort of:)…ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • meg duerksen - it has to be so hard jess!
    i would do the same thing….i can’t believe he isn’t IN the bed! i don’t think i could NOT have him in there.

    can’t wait to see his room. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • HighlandGhillie - <3 and prayers.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Vanessa - I remember when my daughter was born and I said we would keep her beside our bed in the pack n play until she was about a month old. Then she was almost three months and I couldn’t part with her. I loved listening to her breathe and sigh and having the ability to look over and look at her throughout the night. I am due to have a boy in July and the one thing I asked for was a bigger pack n play so that he can sleep in our room. I tell everyone its because we don’t want him sharing a room with his sister until he sleeps well through the night but honestly I just want to keep him close as long as I can! Levi is such an adorable BIG boy 😉ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Christina - I can’t help but smile when I look at him…he’s so cute! My mom would say he’s a butterball turkey. 🙂
    Continue to pray for you…peace, comfort, whatever you might need on a given day.
    And your family get-togethers looked like so much fun!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Stef - he is SO darn cute, Jess! My goodness. He makes me ache for another boy. Our son is almost 5 1/2 and we’ve had 2 girls since his birth. I keep secretly wishing our 4th (if God gives us a 4th) will be a boy 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mandi - I know what you’re feeling. Our little guy will be four months old on the 29th and he slept in his own room for the first time last night. It’s hard letting go. I am also working on finishing up his room to make it more his own. : )

    Jess, what setting to you use on your camera? Your photos are always so bright and beautiful. I need to know what you do! I have a Canon Rebel t1i, the lens it came with, and the 50mm/f1.8 lens too. Can you give any suggestions?ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • HisTreasuredPossession - My Peter sounds like he’s on the same growth chart! We had a quick visit to the doc yesterday and at 14 weeks he’s 15.5 lbs!

    Strong, Kansas stock I say!
    ~rachel~ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Aaron and Shannon - Jess…I can’t believe how big Levi has gotten! He looks about the size of Cole! It is hard to move them to another room! Can’t wait to see it when you’re done!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Aaron and Shannon - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lauren Kelly - WOW, he is definitely a growing boy. Crib time for sure, haha!!! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Buchanan Family - He’s such a big boy! He is growing up to fast!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ellen - JESS, I HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING YOUR BLOG FOR SEVERAL MONTHS NOW AND I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOURS DAILY…(oops sorry about the caps. !)
    I love the saying…there are two things you give your children…one is roots and the other is wings. I have always said that I found it easy to plant those roots but very difficult to give them wings (no matter what stage in life they are…from leaving a cradle to leaving home to get married!)
    I will continue to pray for you, Joel,Cora and precious Levi-the big guy ! God Bless you all !ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Leslie - Way to go! Everything we do in life is one step at a time. Trust in the Lord. He has big plans for Levi.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tamara - Levi is such a big little boy!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Candice - Yeah, he’s looking a bit big for the Moses basket…LOL.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Karina - My advice? Don’t feel like you need to let go. I co-slept with all my children until they were ready for their own beds. For more room and comfort, they would have a mattress on the floor beside or at the foot of my bed. No rush, mama. They are not little for very long and they will have lovely early memories of sleeping next to their parents. HUGSReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • tara - Hello, I don’t comment often but read all your posts and your little Levi is just darling..I just wanted to suggest the Angel Monitor, as it might make you feel better about him being in his room, it signals if he stops breathing! my son has seizures and we use this monitor and it works great! just a suggestion so you will sleep a wee bit better!! xo~ TaraReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tara - I’m goin thru the same thing right now … And it’s so hard!!! But Haden has slept 2 nights in a row in his own room! AND he ate green beans last night too! :((((. Haha. He’s just growin’ up wayyyyy too fast!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • julie - hi, I have been a reader for a long time now…just wanted to let you know that I can relate. We lost our first little boy at birth. We have had two healthy girls in the 4 years since. My 2 year old slept in our room until she was one and my 8 month old is still there now. It is so hard for me to move them to their own rooms too. I love being able to watch them through the night. I think when You’ve experience the loss of a child it makes this harder. Thank you for sharing you life and family. God blessReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Aww Momma he is getting so big..He is beautiful..I can only imagine how hard EVERYTHING is for you. My heart hurts for you. can’t wait to see the pictures of the room.

    KimReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • hoosier68 - Our granddaughter slept in a cradle that my husband made for our children and then passed on to the grandchildren. Our daughter couldn’t bring herself to move her to the crib until the morning she saw her hanging on to the rails on both sides of the cradle with her head and feet touching the ends like Levi. How do they grow so quickly? Loved your post.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • david and amanda - I can’t wait to see pics of Levi’s new room! I’ll pray for you you continue to adjust to the changes.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • waiting - I just read through your comments, and I want to second the comment on the Bebe Sounds Angelcare Monitor. I bought it for my now 1 year old. I have an 8 year old, and then I had 2 back to back miscarriages after several years of infertility. Finally when our miracle boy was born, I was scared to death to let him sleep in his own bed. (he also preferred his stomach over back right from the start). So, I bought the monitor. I never lost a wink of sleep after that. He has been in his own bed since about 8 weeks, and I would have paid double for the peace of mind it gave me. Just a thought! BTW….he is so precious! He looks like he’s saying, “Really mom…..I love you and all, but this has got to stop! Look how big I am:)” He is soooo cute!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mrs. Southern - He’s adorable! baby P is 5 months old and is still in our room. Upstairs to his nursery is just too far away for me right now. He sleeps in his pack and play in our room so at least he’s not in the bed, right? Can’t wait to see his room!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Beki - TheRustedChain - Of course I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know…

    But I think it’s about achieving the perfect balance of letting go and still hanging on. And even when you’ve reached that balance, it’s never going to feel perfect.

    You’re a wonderful mommy!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Wenzel Family - What a cutie!!! Question for you…I remember seeing a quilt in the photos when you were starting to make Cora’s room into Levi’s…green with white stars! Can you tell me where you found this? Both of your babies are so adorable!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • k and c's mom - HA! Those “crowded” pictures are so funny. He has the sweetest expressions on his face. I think you kept him there just exactly the right amount of time. Trust your heart, sweet girl, and take your time in the journey. You are doing a great job.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - The stand your brother made is beautiful — what a special gift! Levi is one super cute little guy no matter where he sleeps!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Melissa Jensen - He looks so much like Joel to me!! I miss seeing you guys every sunday!! Glad I have your blog to read to stay in touch! Take care!! He is super cute and I love his sweet face!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • littlemissmk - still think of your family often. God bless you three 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Carla - I haven’t been on in quite a while, busy with my own little bruiser (who was 15lb at 6 weeks!!!) You are doing great. You’ve already moved him to his room at this stage but I would say, if it feels to early then just bring him back. My 2.5 year old slept with us until she was 2 (IN the bed, I’ve never been kicked in the eye quite as much as the last year lol) and even now that she’s in her own bed, comes into our bed every night. Her brother (the fat one) is 11 weeks and I won’t move him out until he’s at least 6 months and possibly alot longer…just as well I have a patient husband lol. Your boy is beautiful, I love to see your updates even though I don’t have much handsfree time to comment these days and even though we’re strangers, I’m still very proud of how you are handling so much emotion all the time. Levi is a lucky little manReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jenifer's Journey - He is getting so big and cuter by the minute…cant wait to see his roomReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Julie - he is gorgeous and I love his bassinet . . .

    I have an award for you over at my blog.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Deborah - I can’t wait to see the room. Levi is just so darn cute. I can see why you have been stalling a bit. You can still sneak in and take a peek.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Alisha - Cora will never be replaced and while you are letting go, just try and look at it as moving forward and honoring her like you have done since she passed. She has a smile that lights up the world and the older Levi gets he is going to love hearing about his big sis and how special he is to be able to be blessed with using baby items that his sister used. I think that it probably is tough on you seeing a new baby in what was viewed as Cora’s things, but I think in the long run, later in life – Levi is going to love that he had that bond with her. I think he will feel her presence in her old bedroom and she will be his guardian angel to watch over him.

    I’ve never posted before but just wanted you to know that anyone with even 1/2 of a brain is going to realize and know you are not replacing Cora with Levi and you are going to love him just as wholeheartedly as you did Cora. God bless you and you keep Cora’s memory alive. He (Levi) will thank you and as well, it will be great for your mental healing. Your heart will always be filled with love for Cora so you don’t have to worry about losing that.

    I admire your honesty on this blog – you don’t sugar coat that life has moved on and things are just perfect and full of bliss. Your feelings you share are raw and so real. I’m proud of you (coming from a perfect, total stranger – lol) but I admire your transparency.

    May God continue to work on your healing – and healing does not equate to forgetting. May He strengthen your marriage and also let you love Levi without any guilt or mixed feelings.

    I will continue to pray for you during this time of transition.

    AlishaReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Bonnie - Levi is getting so big & he is so precious! My baby boy will be 5 months tomorrow. He weighed 17 lbs. 4 oz. at his appointment this week. Babies grow so quickly! Can’t wait to see pics of his room…
    BonnieReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Lundstroms - I totally understand. I slept on the floor of my daughter’s room for the first 2 weeks that she was “in her own room”. I just couldn’t bear leaving her alone.

    You son is so beautiful. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • 4D Life - Good Lord he is precious!!! I agree with the other posters on the Bebe Angel Monitor….Get one today! You will not regret it. Best investment ever.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristi - Twenty lbs of pure and precious hunk-a-baby! Love it!! Is it sad that I just want to reach through my screen and squeeze his adorable baby cheeks!

    The bassinet stand is gorgeous! Your brother did an amazing job!

    I think of your family often. I know precious Cora is so happy to see her little brother bless your family.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Wife to the Rockstar - AWWWW. He is so cute.

    I hate when they start growing up!

    Your blog is adorable!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Wife to the Rockstar - PS. I love the name Levi.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ki - I know we have to trust God with our little ones, but 2 things that really helped us were a video monitor and a motion detector monitor (Angel Care monitor.) Then you know they are breathing and you can see them. The video monitor also helps when they are older and fussing and you want to look and see “is this a standing up, I’m not going back to sleep fuss? Or is this a lying down, I’ll settle myself fuss?” Just a thought.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jenn Bontrager - Your little Levi is so precious.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Christina - I agree….he is so cute, I can hardly stand it.

    Have you ever thought about getting a video monitor? I use one. I sleep with it on and when I wake up I can look right into it & see my little Pooh. Don’t get me wrong, I still get up a million times to check on her {and she’s 3 1/2} but…it’s nice to have the video monitor too, otherwise I would be in there 2 million times instead of 1. hehe

    Blessings from Pooh’s Corner.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

The weekend was busy.
Very busy.
My baby brother graduated from high school.
I can’t believe he is all grown up.
He is ten years younger than me.
I was his second mama…
at least I thought I was when we were growing up.
Congratulations Owen!
We hung out with my family all day Saturday after Owen’s graduation.
And then we left on a little road trip.
This time to see Joel’s side of the family.
Joel’s grandparents are celebrating their 60th anniversary.
And everyone was there on Sunday to help them celebrate.
Joel’s family is huge.
I love that.
Look at all those people that are the result of Joel’s grandparents.
So cool.
We got back late last night and we were exhausted.
I was hoping to sleep in and recover today,
but Levi had his 4 month appointment this morning.
So, off we went again.
Nothing like waking up early for shots after a crazy weekend.
Sorry Levi.
Everyone kept saying how huge Levi was this weekend.
And he is.
He weighed 19 pounds 6 ounces today.
That’s my BIG boy.
Hope you have a great week!
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Stef - Wow!! He IS a big boy! Kara is 19 months old and she’s finally hitting the 25 pound mark. But, I know she’s always been kind of small.

    Congrats to your brother! What a handsome guy 🙂 Looks like a fun weekend!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Congratulations to your “baby” brother and Joel’s grandparents, what a milestone! I love the pics and you are right Levi is a BIG boy. What a fun weekend ya’ll had!
    Take care!
    God bless,
    Krista from FLA
    aka babykatesmomReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Candice - What an amaizing turnout. Congrats to your bro!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ginger - Lots of congrats in order! What a wonderful family you have. 🙂 Levi is adorable – and yes, a BIG boy! He weighs more than Avery (19lbs), and she just turned 1 on Tuesday! 🙂 Have a great week! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mindee@ourfrontdoor - I love big babies! There’s just so much more to squeeze.

    Your brother is a cutie. If my daughter were a couple of years older I’d be asking if he’d like a blind date. 😉ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Schilling's from Cimarron - HEllo….. thank you sooo much for the baby announcement….. he is adorable! and what a chunkyyyyyy monkey……. how fun is that….. I bet you kiss those cheeks all the time! Hope all is well for you! We released balloons again this year at school and mine was a message to Cora……… Told her thank you for having such a sweet place in our hearts and that we miss her everyday! 🙂

    love to you all!

    AMIEReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I love how your brothers have curly hair…wonder if Levi will follow suit.

    What happy family events!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Brittany - He is a big boy!! My little one is 4 months too and I thought he was HUGE at 17 lbs 8 oz, 28 inches long! Levi has Luke beat!! Way to go!

    My husband is 14 years older than his brother, so he is only a junior in HS…your family looks much like his.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelly - Big babies are the best! 🙂 And your’s is ADORABLE!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelly - I have always loved big families too! Yay for a healthy lil man!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lanea - Where did you put all that family when you went to Chambers?! I grew up just 15 miles West of Chambers, but now live in Wichita, so I know there are no motels close! :)Ben & I are the same age so I know Dale & Ruthie. (My aunt & uncle are Don & Gala.) I’ve been keeping up with your blog ever since I heard about Cora – I have to say – you are a blessing to me. I prayed for you while you were struggling with Cora’s diagnosis & losing her and I have continued to pray for you when the Lord brought you & your family to my mind. Thank you for being so open & sharing your story.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Andrea - What a sweet boy you have there!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

I’m hoping the rumors are true.
They must have read my blog.
And heard my pleas. 
They knew this girl needed a Chick-fil-A close by.
Probably not.
But I am still super-excited!
This was in the paper this week:
Wichita Chick-fil-A fanatics, you asked and you shall receive. The Atlanta-based fast food chain is in final negotiations to bring a freestanding Chick-fil-A to the northwest corner of Central and Rock Road where a Presto gas station has been.

The deal is all but signed. Presto’s last day in business was Saturday.

Chick-fil-A has space in the Rhatigan Student Center at Wichita State University , but Wichitans have long requested that it bring at least one if not more of the restaurants somewhere off campus.
Soon I will be able to go to Chick-fil-A whenever my heart desires.
It is probably a good thing we live 40 minutes from Wichita.
Otherwise I might eat lunch there everyday.
Kinda like it is a good thing we live 40 minutes from Starbucks.
At least Joel thinks so.
And just because my hubby raises cattle…
When you are not eating at Chick-fil-A,
you should definitely EAT BEEF.
Every girl needs a good steak or burger.
But a chicken sandwich won’t hurt you every once in a while.
Right Joel?
I knew you all would share in my joy today!
Now, if we can just get a HomeGoods to come next.
Oh, and by the way, 
I know there is a Chick-fil-A in the student center at WSU.
But that really doesn’t count.
Unless you are really desperate.
You have to go onto the college campus to get there.
And they have weird hours.
This will be SO much better!
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Beki - TheRustedChain - For realz!

    I am so stinking excited about this too.

    And I’m with you on the Starbucks… I’d love to go more often, but can’t drive 35-40 minutes just for coffee. When I say something about it on twitter or facebook, people are always like, “Where the heck to you live that you don’t have Starbucks?!”

    In the sticks. That’s where.
    But I like it.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • kmjba8 - You know that the first 100 guests on opening day get free chick-fil-a at that restaurant for a year. I’m just saying…Levi might like a little campout!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • kmjba8 - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • kmjba8 - I went to look it up, and oops! They’ve changed it a bit…

    http://www.chick-fil-a.com/#insidersfirst100ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lauren Kelly - YAY!!!!! This is fantastic news!!!! What shall we do to celebrate this occasion? Ha! Love me some Chick-Fil-A! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Becky - Yeah! Gotta love those chicken minis! They are sooooo good!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - We just had a one open about 15 minutes from our house. I believe that if you are one of the first 100 customers you get chicken for free for a year or something like that. There were people camping out in tents for 1-2 days just to be the first 100 customers. Crazy!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jenae - HALLELUJAH! I think I have got to be the biggest Chick-fil-A fan of all…sorry Jess, I’ve got you beat. In college, I once drove all the way to EDMOND, OKLAHOMA (a 2-hour drive) to indulge!!! I am SO EXCITED!!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • A - YAY! They are putting one in near me, too! What is your favorite thing there? The fries and the lemonade are mine!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marla Taviano - Glory hallelujah, girl!! Wooooohooooo!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Beckypdj - My office is about 3 minutes from Chik-fil-a!!! Every 100th customer gets their meal free. I was the 100th customer the other day. I know it sounds weird, but I wrote about it on my blog, it was a God thing.
    http://beckyjacksonpdj.blogspot.com/2010/04/100th.html
    He loves us so much.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Micah - Hilarious! I’m hoping for an Ikea up my way. That would make my day 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • purejoy - mmmm. i have a chick fila within walking distance of my house. super spoiled, i know.
    and you too will be blessed by having one close to you, too!! enjoy!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jody - love me a burger off the grill!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Bec - When I lived in TX, there was a stand a lone CFA 2 blocks from my house. I miss it so. We have one in our mall, but it was so nice to be able to go through the drive thrus!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jenni Lynn - How exciting for you!! My husband was one of the first 100 in line here in Colorado Springs and we are still enjoying our free chick-fil-a!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lane - So jealous! My town also has one in a college student union, but I TOTALLY don’t count that (although we do go there! ha!) I so want a free standing one. I need a drive thru when I haven’t gotten dressed or am covered in spit up! Enjoy!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • loren.anne - i’m pumped!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Christina - I think the people who work at Chick-Fil-A might know my order when they see me…I love that place! I’m so glad that you are getting one close by. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Gunter Family - Mmm! I think I might go for breakfast! Have you had their breakfast?! 🙂 We have two within probably three miles of our house and I do say “I could eat Chick fil a every day!” And we really do eat it atleast twice a week! It’s sooooo good! At Christmas they have the best peppermint chocolate chip milkshakes!

    I’d love a HomeGoods and Ikea near us!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • JESSICA - Chick Fil-A rocks!
    My 7-year old has orderd his own food there for three years – a #5, 12-count with orange juice.

    NAH – we don’t frequent that establishment! 😉ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jill - Do you think you could work your magic and have them send one my way too? Seriously, I would kill for something like that in my town! MMMMMMMMmmmmmmm……..ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristin Stegent - Cool! I love that place! We have one like 45 minutes away. Do you know we eat mainly chicken and RARELY beef? 😉ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jara - I have never eatin at a Chick-fil-a. And I’m pretty sure that there is not one with in a 2 hr driving distance from me.. along with a Starbucks.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ellen Grant - I am pretty sure my 3 year olds first words were Chick oh lay.
    Sad, but true.
    She requests to go there for every meal.
    We have them on every corner here. Along with Starbucks.
    I really AM in trouble.
    (Is it crazy that my 3 year old ALSO knows what to order from the Starbucks drive through?)
    Ah well.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Miss G - yea! It’s so good! so glad for you! KellyReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ceri - we do not live in the sticks and we do not have a chick-fil-a. 🙁 I would trade ALL my Starbucks for one. Jealous, but happy for you!!! There isn’t even one in my state that I know of. They all closed.:(ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • meg duerksen - do you want to go to the over night campy thing that julie does when they open a chick-fil-a to get free chicken for a year?
    i don’t know if it do….but i will keep levi for you!!

    didn’t there used ot be one in towne east….like 20 years ago…downstairs near a corner by penney or dillards….next door to a pet shop. yes…in the mall.
    memories…..ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • JM - I must say I am intrigued. I’ve never been and I don’t have any near me. (the nearest one is hours away and it is on a college campus) What is all the fuss about? I may have to keep my eyes open on for one my next vacation!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jen - I LOVE our Chick-Fil-A! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Roxanne - Having a CFA was my one condition upon moving 8 years ago! I have to drive an hour to get to Target, but it’s only 10 minutes for my nuggets!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Melissa Joy - I’m so jealous! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • plainkids - Amen on the homegoods! So happy about chick-fil-a – It’s across from the dillons where I shop!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tami - I’m from the north. My husband and I went to OK this winter. I innocently asked, “what’sa chicfillet AH?”
    We never ate there because my husband could not stop laughing.
    Sorry we missed it!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Julie - That’s exciting! I, too, LOVE Chick-fil-A, but our small town–here in Andalusia, Alabama, probably won’t see that place anytime soon. 🙂

    What camera/lens do you use? Your pics are always soooo good. Also, what setting do you have it on? I’m trying to learn more about photography because I take pics of both my little boys all the time.

    Julie HardyReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Christine - YAY for Chick-fil-A! I grew up in Atlanta, and lived just a short drive from the original restaurant in Hapeville. Once I got to Texas, I was a little sad to not have Chick-fil-A closer. I’ve been a happy girl since they opened one in our little suburb of Austin.

    And, my goodness. Your family picture is completely stunning. I love the photo effect you used. The dedication for Levi was beautiful and I’m so glad you shared that!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer Carter - I heard this too! So excited!! I’ve been one writing them and begging them to come back to Wichita (and we live an hour from there!!). We do try to visit them on WSU when we happen to be in town and they happen to be open. Can’t wait to support their free-standing store!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anna Marie - They are building one in our town right now. Should be open within a few months. But I gotta know, what is it about it that has so many people talking? Is it just the chicken in general or are there just a few good things???ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

« PREVIOUS NEXT »