Project 365 {2013} - Day 236

Today Justin and I slept in, took our time getting dressed and then wandered around Chattanooga. Soaking in the sunshine and waterfront views, little side streets and Little Portland feel. We ate breakfast at a little diner that certainly probably had multiple health-code violations, but was a fun Mom n' Pop experience nonetheless. We wandered through antique stores without fear of little hands breaking things and held hands while we walked and talked. This city is such a gem and I am so grateful we had the chance to sneak away!

Project 365 {2013} - Day 235

Today is Justin's birthday and so we decided to sneak away for a little overnight trip to Chattanooga. (Thankfully we have amazing friends who were able to take the girls for us so we could make it happen!) When we rolled into town we immediately decided to grab a bite to eat at a little place called Fork and Pie. We snagged a seat by the window, which was perfect for talking since we were off by ourselves. We also had some awesome people watching since there was a biker rally or something right out on the street in front of us. We could tell the weather was starting to change when everyone started hopping on their bikes and driving off. After dinner we only got about five minutes into wandering around town before the skies opened up and absolutely drenched us. So we ran back to the car, checked into our hotel, showered and snuggled up. I think it was the perfect way to end the night!

Project 365 {2013} - Day 234

I got this in the mail today from my sweet Momma as a belated birthday gift. I love it!!!

Project 365 {2013} - Day 219

I am not one that needs a big fuss made over me on my birthday. I am content to keep it quiet and carry on as usual. And that is fully what I was expecting to do today, on the day of my birth. But throughout the course of the day so many  kind gestures were extended to me. I was spoiled with flowers and a traditional birthday doughnut breakfast. My favorite beverage of choice, Green Goodness and delicious hazelnut chocolates were left on my desk. Thoughtful gifts that I absolutely love and cards with the sweetest things written in them were given to me. Justin got me my own laptop and even a surprised me with a fun evening out! It was so wonderful and I was completely feeling the love from so many! It's nice to feel that each birthday that comes isn't just a "you're getting really old" marker on the path of life, but is rather a chance to truly be reminded of all the love and goodness you are blessed to be surrounded by with each passing year.

Project 365 {2013} - Day 206

Devyn's real birthday is tomorrow, but Laura's son, Lincoln's birthday is today. So we decided it would be fun to do a little joint, family party with the two of them at the same time. We loaded up the kids and headed to Pizza 3.14 and let the kids run with wild abandon and fists full of tokens. They declared it "The best party ever!!"

I could hardly believe, amidst the chaos of trying to capture the moment, that my sweet Devyn Ryan is three years old. She was such an unexpected surprise when she came to our family and has been a blessing to all of us ever since. I simply can not imagine our world without her sense of humor, her infectious grin and sweet sense of innocence. I love her so very much and am beyond grateful to have her in my life!

Project 365 {2013} - Day 186

Ten years ago today I started a journey and new role that will be part of my identity for the rest of my life. Ten years ago today this Little Woman came into my world and made me a mother for the first time. I remember being so scared that I didn't know what I was doing. But then I looked at her tiny face and knew that despite my fear at my own inexperience, love would see us through. I did decide though long ago that oldest children should get a blue ribbon or something for being the one who has to go through every phase of life with a parent who doesn't know what they are doing for where they are at. I think Heavenly Father knew what He was doing when He sent me Maryn. She is kind-hearted and affectionate, forgiving and helpful. Her presence in our home has blessed our family in so many ways and I am so very grateful to have her as my daughter! Happy Birthday Peanut!!

Project 365 {2013} - Day 183

 

I adore this girl, who is FIVE years old today!! I can hardly believe how time has flown, how much Lauryn has grown up, what a crack-up she is and how her spunk keeps me on my toes. She is truly a one in a million kid and I am so grateful she is mine! I can't imagine life without her smile in it and I am so very thankful that on this day she came into this world and into our family. The Young Crew would not be complete without our Luey Belle!!