About Me

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God is good. Greg and I have been priviledged to spend the last 16 years growing our marriage and our family. Mikayla is our oldest child, Jordan is next, and Isabella is our third. We hope you enjoy reading about our journey of Faith, Family & Fun!

Friday, August 14, 2009

A glimpse backward....

I got the priviledge of spending the evening last night with a 22mo old and a 2 mo old. Their names are McKinsey and Avery, two of the cutest girls in the world. I got to watch them while their mom and dad went out for the evening. Those two little girls are joy all wrapped up in smiles and belly laughs. What I absolutely loved about the evening was the beautiful trip down memory lane and remembering what it was like to have a 2 year old and a newborn.

I got to remember the eating game, the eating markers, energy that is never ending and joy that is truely pure. I loved remembering how fun it is for a kid to run around the couch, surprise you, and jump into your arms over and over and over. The smile a 3 month old gives you when they realize you're talking to them is unforgettable. Of course what would an evening like that be like if not for remembering how to warm bottles to that perfect temperature, spitting up on your white shirt, having to run to the potty, and hiding at bedtime. Then there are the stories and blankies, the hugs and snuggles, and a child's complete trust that you know exactly what you are doing and will watch over while they sleep.

My kids are 9, 7, and 5 now. Although I am loving the stages we are in now, I considered it such a joy and a gift to have had the opportunity to look back for a bit and remember the joy and wonder of that time in my life. What great memories! It really does go by fast when you take a look back. In the moment, not so much. I look forward to enjoying where we have been, where we are now, and where we will be someday. Life....Earnhardt Style!

Sunday, August 9, 2009

A visit with Aunt Jill

What a special day. Greg's sister Jill was in town for her 20th reunion and she asked if we could have lunch on sunday. The day started out early (5 am) so Greg and I could get the crock pot going for homemade Beef Stroganoff. That turned out yummy. Our kids haven't seen her in 4 1/2 years. So we were overjoyed at the idea of the kids getting to meet her again. Isabella never stopped talking. We really couldn't get a word in edge wise if she was in the room. She showed Jill her room, named ALL of her stuffed animals, and tried to give a narrated tour of the other kids' rooms too. Eventually she went off and played so the adults could talk. Jordan thought she was cool. And Mikayla, well, it was almost as if Mikayla knew her forever. She kept telling her that she loved her and was so thankful that she had come to visit. I know Marie was in heaven smiling down the whole time. She decided to spend her sunday school hour making Jill a special card to thank her for coming to visit today. The prolonged hug when saying goodbye is what got me though. I can't explain it but it was a moment like none other.

Family is so important to Greg and I. We love all of our family so much. We enjoyed some time catching up with her and I am thankful that she was able to spend some time with our family today.



Jill and her Little Brother!

The kids having way too much fun

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

There's a Time...

There is a new song out by Mandisa that I love. It's called "He Is With You". Listen to it. It will bless you. It has been a good reminder to me that there is a time for everything. I've found myself being sad that I am not able to share many moments with my friends lately but this is my time to learn. I know there is a time to cry because I've shed many tears this summer for lost family and friends, for lost moments, and for hurt that runs deep. But through those tears, I have also been able to rejoice that joy comes with the morning light. Maybe not right away but it will come. He is with me and He is with you. God is faithful.


He Is With You - Mandisa

Joyful moments

I had the priviledge of meeting some of my friends new babies this past week. Greg and I also had the joy of spending an afternoon with some dear friends of ours on Sunday. Thank you to the Essman family for a wonderful afternoon of food and friendly conversation. Todd, I still find myself wanting more of that scrumptous flank steak! And Shauna, I must have that salad recipe! YUM YUM!!