The Joys and The Lies of Motherhood

For the longest time I couldn't blog because I thought it had to be like a journal entry; and I couldn't journal because I thought it had to sound like a blog post.

This is not a journal entry.

Dear Blog,

Today I am entirely too sentimental. The oldest is turning 10 and Daddy just discovered the youngest has her first tooth. (You cannot see the tooth in the picture ;)

I was at the store picking out a card for my birthday boy. In like 30 seconds, all the feelings of anxiety about this birthday party and wanting it to be perfect, the thoughts of "what if I don't get the right card" or "this is my last chance to make TEN memorable," the swells of inadequacy and guilt about every thing that I can't do for him came rushing over me. (again, this is NOT, I repeat, NOT a journal entry!)

Then the Holy Spirit rode in on that wave and reminded me in a way that literally took all those thoughts captive: "Micah, it doesn't have to be. Why in the world would it?" I mean it seems so cruel to say this, but sometimes the lie of motherhood is sentiment, or perfection, or adoration. It's whatever we take joy in but make ULTIMATE.

So, here's hoping I can enjoy the sentiment of the next few days, months and years without letting it drive me crazy!

Party Planning

My boy is turning 10!!! To write that! WOW!

So, I wanted to throw a big surprise party for him... (which he found out about)

But TEN is such a new thing, a new DECADE... it can't be baby-ish.

So, I asked my girl, Lissa and she came up with the bunting example (above). I think it's such a cool idea. Christopher thought so too (back when I was still trying to surprise him, I somehow still managed to get his approval). I like that it is bunting, but it is square. It also reminds me of the bunting I handmade out of construction paper for his 5 year old pirate party. It took me forever to create the one for this year's party and get it just right (so when it prints out big, it works). Ben had to give me a lesson in Cropping Technique 101.

The picture file is ready, but the finished product is not. So, now all I have to do is print, cut, mount on black background and attach to string. I'll post a picture from the party. The party is Saturday. We're so excited because our cousins Stephen and Holly are coming to town with their kids to visit for the 4-day holiday weekend.

The New Girl

Five months ago, we brought home this awesome person. She's gorgeous. Her smile makes me remember why I do this thing. God has used her to bring so much into this family. We are definitely experiencing growing pains. More on that later.


Things to remember...

• Mollie makes the sweetest sounds.
• She looks at Heidi with wonder and amazement.
• She loves to cuddle and be held A LOT, which is such a beautiful thing and a stressful thing all at once. Then, holding her makes the stressful part easier.
• She recognizes everyone in her family now, and tries to get their attention by batting her hands and feet around.
• Mollie likes to sleep on her tummy since she figured out how to roll over from her back about a month ago.
• Mollie still does not do well with cow milk protein. I have been trying to stay off dairy for almost two months now.
• Heidi and Christopher love their baby sister and take good care of her, Christopher can do just about everything for her and Heidi likes to keep her company when she is swinging.

Just a few days ago, I made a lovie for Mol-Mol!

It started with this little organic goodie we like to call "'Mater"

And I added a blankie from this dress from my singin' days

I must say, she loves it.