the NICU

This morning Colson and I delivered Reese's bows to the NICU. There were 41 bows and/or headbands! The nurses were thrilled, and it really touched my heart. I've been back once since we were there with Reese, but it was still really hard. I loved having Colson with me. His chubby grins carried me through.

I've been thinking especially about those baby girls who will receive these bows. I'm so thankful my friends participated in this! I pray these gifts will encourage and bless those NICU parents no matter what is going on with their little baby.

After we went to the NICU we picked out Reese's winter flowers. On the way to the store, I asked myself why in the world I was doing these things on the same day. I do love doing things for her, and we found the perfect ones. It's just when it sinks in what I'm actually doing, sadness overwhelms me.

This weekend we decorated our Christmas tree. Me mainly. ; ) Jason did a great job of putting it together. Great job, babe! As I was hanging all the ornaments we received last year in honor of Reese, Colson was just talking away in the den. It was such a comfort to hear his sweet voice. My heart is aching, but I have such gratitude at the same time.

As the holidays stir up a lot of emotions, I keep telling myself to take everything one day at a time. I'm also reminded of all of the people who pray for us, lift us up, and love on us. Priceless gifts from the One who is still carrying us through each day. Thank you!

...according to Your love remember me,
for You, LORD, are good.

Psalm 35:7

Thanksgiving 2010

Thanksgiving was filled with laughter, eating, and watching Abby and Zach play. They love each other so much. We missed you, Meredith and your fam!

Z and Abs loved playing outside in the leaves.

Thursday morning I was talking with Zach about all the yummy foods we were going to eat for lunch, and he said, "I want to go to Taco Bell." Crazy kid.

My mom's cinnamon rolls are little pieces of heaven. We usually fight over who gets the middle ooey gooey one. Ha! Thanks, Mom, for all the delicious food. There is nothing like mama's cooking. ; )

Happy boy

Mandy, Abs, & Bo

Pappy, Abby, "Buns," & Colson

Mando & me

Hope ya'll had a happy Thanksgiving! My heart is heavy for those who are deeply feeling loss this year. I'm so thankful that even with everything we have been through the LORD gives us joy, hope and peace.

I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—
You will have plenty to eat, until you are full,
and you will praise the name of the LORD your God,
who has worked wonders for you...

Joel 2:25-26

A Good First

Happy Thanksgiving!

The LORD is gracious and righteous;

our God is full of compassion.

What can I give back to God

for the blessings He's poured out on me?

Psalm 116:5, 12

Reese's Name Gallery #25

Thank you for continuing to send pictures to us! I can't believe how many people have responded to Reese's Name Gallery. It's amazing and touches this mama's heart deeply. I have many more to share, but I enjoy spreading them out. Each one is wonderful.

Scrabble

Pretzels

a scrapbook page

Spools of thread

Cars, helicopters, & motorcycles (Zach's favorite)

This city will bear on My behalf a name of joy, praise, and glory...They will tremble with awe because of all of the good and all the peace I will bring about for them.

Jeremiah 33:9

Beautiful Night

Thank you for Zach's birthday and my "labor" day wishes! We had a fun day.

Saturday night Jason and I went to the candle lighting service at Reese's Memorial Gardens.

It was a sweet night.

She had a little candle lighting her marker.

The service is honoring to Reese and others in Heaven and glorifies the LORD, too. Such a peaceful special time.

I'm so burdened for those who are dreading the holidays with great loss and broken hearts. Especially for the first time. I want to wrap my arms around them.

Last year at this time we found out about our new little (big) man, and now he is here filling our lives with smiles and laughter. What a year. I'm beyond thankful he is here with us as we face the holidays. What a difference he makes! He eases the sting and lightens my heart.

A few more friends wearing Reese's t-shirt ~

This cutie had little Asa when she was 31 weeks. He is doing great!

I've had a few people ask, and I had Reese's tshirts made for my family and some friends. I also designed the logo for her shirt with some help from a t-shirt design friend.

Have a wonderful Monday and love on those the LORD brings to your mind. ; )

Precious in the sight of the LORD
is the death of His faithful servants.

Psalm 116:15

Happy Birthday, Zach!

Zach's birth day

November 19, 2007

One year old

Two years old

I'm three!

I went all out for Zach's birthday lunch...

Taco Bell! His fave. Two plain chicken tacos, please. ; )

We love you, our little wild man. You're smart, funny, handsome, and have a better memory than I do. Your tender heart always wants everyone to be happy. I'm exhausted every night from chasing you around and answering all your questions, but I'm always excited to start another day with you! I'm honored to be your mom.

Hold on to what is good...

I Thessalonians 5:21

Mr. Organized

Zach loves playing with his cars and lining them all up. He says, "Mom, take a picture!" Yes, he calls me mom now. Sigh. How did this happen?

When I take pics I tell him to "show me his teeth." It actually works sometimes. ; )

Today is his last day to be two! My handsome little man.

Trust in Him at all times...pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8

NWA Boutique Show Winners

The winners are...

# 11 Kristen

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and

# 5 Melissa!

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I'll be emailing you both for your address. ; )

Thanks for entering!

Today was Colson's first time to wear jeans. Big day! I love his little muffin top. ; )

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through Him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 1:20