Welcome to Summerville

What's a Mommy to do?

2011-08-22T12:32:00.003-04:00

We are alive... and well. My head is spinning with all that we've been up to these last few weeks of summer. Bottom line is that my kids are GROWING UP!

I am starting the weaning process.

Hope turns 1 in about 2 weeks.

She started taking steps this week.

Jayden started school today (tear).

Journey is officially out of pull-ups (day/night).

Demetrius' mom and brother are here with us and have been a huge help with all the craziness. We took a trip to Alabama and North Carolina. We have been swimming daily and going to SeaWorld a bunch. We are still looking for a house to buy in Holden Heights, where our church is exploring the possibility of an urban church plant. I can't seem to find the time or energy to update as often as I would like but I'm not giving up just yet:)

Best Donuts Ever

2011-06-10T23:26:00.002-04:00

Thanks to my girl, Sarah Bruner I have now experienced the BEST donuts in the world.

This was a fun time for us... the big kids had their very own donut!

Sugar highs for all of us...

I have a four year old.

2011-06-10T21:16:00.002-04:00

Jayden turns 4 tomorrow. I can't believe I have a KID!

Jumping for joy (with one of his flip flops and one of journey's flip flops) because his friends were over. You know you have a KID and not a baby when his friends knock on our door and ask if Jayden can play with them.

He is really an amazing swimmer. He is now snorkeling! He is so calm in the water and it's so fun to watch him learn and grow.

Tomorrow we are having a race car themed birthday party. I know some people despise "themed" parties but it's his day and that is what he loves!

Hope at 9 months!

2011-06-10T20:55:00.002-04:00

It doesn't seem possible that my sweet baby is already 9 months old.

That would be a pancake she's munching on. She refuses to eat baby food. Just big kid food:)

Hope Floats!

She hurts my eyes... seriously. It should be a crime to be this pretty.

like a fish. like a mermaid.

2011-06-03T13:04:00.006-04:00

Journey swimming from instructor to the steps.

We started swim lessons this week! This isn't something we originally planned to do but we were given a great opportunity and given the fact that we are here in Florida to stay we decided to go for it. I'm so glad we did. This is PediaSwim. It is more than just swimming and/or survival. It's day 3 for us and I can tell that my very strong-willed little guy is gaining self control and confidence. I can't wait to see what this does for him (and the girls of course).

Journey again swimming from instructor to instructor. She could not and would not swim even a little 3 days ago.

Hope is learning to get to the surface and float. She will eventually learn to turn onto her tummy, kick to the edge and hold on. At this age, it's all about survival and she will need to have refresher courses to progress her to "swimming." No doubt... she hates it. She started crying when we walked up to the pool this morning. But, she is learning!

If you know my boy (or have read my blog for any time at all) you know that it's a fight to get his hair washed. He has never liked to get his hair or face wet. Our weekly or bi-weekly hair washing is d.r.a.m.a. I had no idea how he would do and honestly I was a tad scared he would throw some fists (not a fit...i'm talking punches here). Fears were confirmed and he went nuts! But, his no-fuss instructor was amazing and now he is doing awesome!

Hope and Journey floating on their backs (day 2)

Journey-girl was all about it on day 1. She couldn't wait for her turn. Now she is being challenged a big more and didn't want to go back. She is doing really well and will be like her best friend, Ariel (aka the little mermaid) in no time!

Facing his fears. I'm so proud of him.

Perspective

2011-06-03T13:02:00.001-04:00

I have shared the link before. But, if you're like me you need to hear her account again and again. For perspective and for remembering what we have been made for.

katie's blog

almost a quitter

2011-05-29T20:51:00.005-04:00

I really thought about quitting this blog... and I might still. There is just too much life going on to capture it all. I get behind and then who has time to catch up on blogging when you're...

hanging outside with 3 little kids expectantly waiting for daddy to get home from work.

figuring out how to parent an incredibly cool, almost-four-year-old.

bathing and rebathing children who seem to pee on everything and who are always covered in food (hope). not to mention the high maintenance hair of the older ones. i love doing their hair but they don't exactly love it:)

making sure we keep up with these cars... and that the boy in this picture is confident in being the fastest, tallest, strongest, etc.

making sure that your two athletically talented children don't come crashing down from the playground built for children 5-12 years old.

daily removing permanent marker (lotion, diaper cream, vaseline, makeup, crayola marker, etc) from your child "artist."

busy snapping iPhone photos of a princess sleeping in such a way as to not disturb her pre-nap tea party (which she had in her brothers bed).

finding and enjoying time with your husband and best friend... oh and 8.5 month old baby who loves to make funny faces.

responding to "look at me mommy" all day long:) aka pouring on the praise and encouragement.

watching your 2.5 year old get so big it makes your heart hurt.

teaching a baby to eat, and sleep, and watching her fall in love with her brother and sister.

watching for parking lot traffic so you're toddlers can ride their bikes over the speed bumps again and again and again (the joys of apartment living).

ummm... does anyone else's house look like this 5 minutes after the children awake? impressive.

Photo Shoot Give-a-way!

2011-05-10T20:59:00.002-04:00

My fabulously talented and beautiful friend Melonie is giving away a photo shoot for one lucky pregnant mama! If you or someone you know lives in the Orlando area...ENTER NOW!!!

Go here for the details... and you'll get to see my belly bump while you're there~

Part II: Oreo Truffles

2011-04-12T14:49:00.003-04:00

For all of my non-healthy eating friends out there (julia)...I would like to share a recipe for Oreo Truffles. I would bet that my non-healthy eating friends (julia) probably already know this one but in light of my last post I think I better share it just in case.

OREO TRUFFLES (with no cool step by step photos)

1 package oreos

1-8oz cream cheese

chocolate bark

chop up the oreos in a food processor. mix in softened cream cheese. roll into 1-inch balls. refrigerate until hard. melt chocolate (or whatever candy coating you'd like) and dip balls. place on wax paper or a baking sheet and refrigerate until chocolate hardens. keep refrigerated (because of cream cheese) and try not to eat all of them because they are really. really. bad. for. you.

How-To Tuesday: Oreo Truffles

2011-04-12T14:27:00.004-04:00

So I made that title up...almost sounded like a "real" blogger for a minute:) Anyway, on to my regularly scheduled program:

Step 1: Take big bite and allow the chocolate to drip all over your face.

Step 2: Show your mommy the yummy goodness while your taste buds do a dance. Does she look a little intoxicated or am I exaggerating the power of chocolate?

Step 3: Show just how happy chocolate can make a girl.

Step 4: Take another big bite before your mommy asks you to share.

Step 5: Pop the rest of that gooey mess in your mouth.

Ta-da...mission accomplished!

TROUBLE.

2011-04-10T15:46:00.001-04:00

My rule is that if I take a picture then I shouldn't discipline you for getting into something. I think it's a fair trade.

His Turn

2011-04-10T15:44:00.003-04:00

Stay tuned for their Daddy/Son "special time."

newborns

2011-04-05T13:51:00.002-04:00

hope

journey

jayden

My semi-annual, non-kid post

2011-03-21T15:23:00.002-04:00

GET THIS BOOK!!!! I'm only 1/5 of the way through it and I believe it will change the way I'm living.

One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

"Joy is the realest reality, the fullest life, and joy is always given, never grasped. God gives gifts and I give thanks and I unwrap the gift given: joy.

And he writes...

2011-03-21T14:54:00.003-04:00

Daddy Daughter Dance (Dad-daw-dance: In Journey)

Our night began with a fabulous dinner at Pei Wei. What a great idea! Have all these dads dress up and take their daughter(s) to what felt like the prom but to the annual Northland Church Daddy Daughter Dance. Journey (dressed in her beautiful white gown) and I arrived at the church to the smell of buttery popcorn, flashing lights and music pumping loud enough to hear in the streets. I walked into the foyer of the sanctuary and had a flashback to my old clubbing days then quickly realized this was a redeemed version of what fun, music and dance should be like. We go from table to table, eating fruit, cheese and cotton candy. Then the dj yells out “Time for the Cupid Shuffle!” We hit the dance floor and danced for 20 minutes (btw..that song is way too long) most of it with Journey in my arms. As we dance I look in Journey’s eyes and she is amazed!

After we danced to a little Stevie Wonder, the associate pastor came on stage and guided the fathers and daughters through vows made to each other. As I am holding Journey in my arms I began saying the vow to her, she reaches up, clasps my face in her hands and gave me the most endearing look ever. I began to weep and she just laid her head on my shoulder squeezing me with both arms while I finished vowing to protect her, guide her, pray for her, love her and love her mother. Wow! That was the highlight of my night.

At this point it is about 8:30 pm, I’m exhausted from dancing, she is tired too but she sees the face painting line and had to have her face painted. So we stand in line hot and sweaty, music pumping, dads on the dance floor next to us dancing as if there was no tomorrow. Thirty five minutes later and a beautiful flower painted on her face capped off a wonderful night of fun. I did keep her out way past her curfew and I told Journey “only daddy can keep you out that late and NO ONE ELSE.” I never knew a Daddy Daughter dance could be so amazing. I am hooked, can’t wait to go back with both my baby girls!

Meanwhile...I got to hang with these two.

2011-03-05T12:15:00.002-05:00

While Daddy and Journey were cuttin' up on the dance floor with over 1000 other daddy/daughter pairs, i got to hang out with these two. We went to Jayden's favorite spot-Millenia Mall where we had chickfila, played in the "little circle" (a wide open place with no equipment that is meant for lots of chasing and instant friend-making), and snuggled up on the couch with a movie...non other than Disney's "Cars." It was a good night indeed.

a special date

2011-03-05T09:12:00.002-05:00

Stay tuned for some fun pictures from a special night. Demetrius took Journey to a "Daddy-Daughter Dance" last night. They definitely had fun and did not get home until almost 10:30pm! He took her to dinner and then to dance the night away...

Kodak Moments

2011-03-05T08:07:00.000-05:00

Happy 1/2 Birthday Hope Elise!

2011-03-05T07:21:00.000-05:00

Happy Saturday!

2011-03-05T07:19:00.000-05:00

3 musketeers

2011-02-25T09:49:00.002-05:00

I hereby introduce to you...the 3 Musketeers. That would be Selah-bug on the far left. She has unofficially (along with her Mommy Melonie) become part of our family. She is about 7 weeks older than Journey and 2 years to the day older than Hope. We love them so much! I've mentioned before that Melonie has a budding photography business.

I just love this picture she took because these are their signature facial expressions.

they make my heart glad

2011-02-21T21:31:00.003-05:00

Jayden

2011-02-21T21:17:00.002-05:00

Random t.v. watching position. He never ceases to amaze me:)

He is finally eating a little better. We are working on it...

This represents today's Jayden. He is always "the best, fastest, strongest, tallest, biggest, smartest, oldest, betterest." He is obsessed with being first and in the front...often pushing little Journey aside to show how big his muscles are. Sigh.

But don't be too alarmed. He loves her. One night she slept in our bed after throwing up all in hers. Jayden woke up screaming "I. Need. My. Sissssssssssssttttterrrrrrrrrr. I. CAN'T. SLEEP WITHOUT JOURRRRRRRNNNNNEEEEYYYYYYY." She adores him.

His creativity amazes me. I love seeing him grow and learn. He built this train track around the "city." He loves cities with tall buildings. He loves Orlando.

Journey

2011-02-21T21:04:00.002-05:00

Can't get enough of this girl. Seriously, she is just the best.

Big smile. Pretty nails. She is ALL girl.

Caught the cute little lisp on camera. This is her saying "Cheese."

It's puzzle mania at our house. I really love it when they get about 7 different ones out at the same time. Please note: sunglasses and headband.

Cell. Sunglasses. Dora book. Just about sums it up.

Hope

2011-02-21T20:48:00.002-05:00

Umm. Does this look like any 5 1/2 month old you know? This girl is clearly gonna follow her big sister's growth trend. Geez.

Sitting up these days!

Having serious sister-like conversation.

Had her first taste of food tonight! She's been ready for a while. Me? Not-so-much.

Cereal face. I think she's saying "it's about time mom."

What We've Been Up Too

2011-01-24T22:12:00.002-05:00

Playing (and fighting) together. Oh, what will I do when that little one starts getting in the mix? I'm not gonna lie, I'm a little nervous. Babies are easy. Toddlers, not so much.

This girl makes me smile. The daily routine includes a trip to the potty immediately followed by putting on her "princess costume", tights, and usually shoes and hair accessories. I promise you she was up for a total of 5 minutes this morning and she was fully princessed out and asking me to put on music so she could dance. She's a big fan of Taylor Swift.

Orlando has some incredible parks. There are on every corner and they are all super nice. It's a favorite (free) past time especially when it's not 100 degrees outside.

On a cold day you can find the kids and their sweet daddy "fishing" at the swimming pool. Classic.

sick baby

2011-01-24T21:57:00.002-05:00

Sweet Hope is not feeling too sporty these days. I think she might be teething as well. Check out that drool:)

She is still an incredibly snuggly baby. She is almost 5 months old now.

Check out those arm rolls. It still amazes me that babies grow like this on milk alone. It's really crazy to think that my body has sustained her. I don't think I'll ever get over how God brings about a little life. I love pregnancy and babies (but I am still pretty sure I'm done having babies of my own:)

Chubby bunny. She was little for about one whole month.

Hair Cuts

2011-01-24T19:33:00.004-05:00

BEFORE

Our neighbor is finishing up school this May so Demetrius asked her if she would cut the kids hair for us. We've been talking it up with the kids because if you've read my blog for long you will know that we have major hair issues with Jayden. If his hair is slightly different he cries (literally) and says "but I don't look like Jayden." Doesn't he look thrilled?

DURING

Um....isn't she about the cutest 18 year old you've seen? She is super stylist with her mohawk and really sweet too. Today was her day off so instead of taking naps we called on Miss Brittany to come beautify us!

DURING

Journey-girls turn. A little skittles and a cartoon was all she needed. she sat for a little over an hour straight while her hair was cut and styled.

After...neither of them complained a single time. They sat still and they loved the final result. If you know my boy, this is a miracle. I have to admit I'm sad to see the platinum tips go but I know they will be back as soon as this intense florida sunshine comes back out. The ends of his hair were nasty and i've cut so many knots out that it was super uneven. love this fresh start. they loves seeing all (this was most of it) of the hair that just came off their heads.

Sweet boy. Honestly, he drives me nuts these days but I love him more than ever. He is the quirkiest little guy I know! I really can't wait to see who he becomes one day.

AFTER

BEAUTIFUL

My amazing mom sent money for their haircuts and for prizes for doing it without complaining. So, right after we finished up we took a trip to toys r us for their rewards. they each got to pick out a toy. thanks gram!

MLK

2011-01-17T23:22:00.002-05:00

If you have a minute check out this adoptive fathers thoughts as he contemplates sharing hard truths about history with his trans-racially adopted son. I've been following this Ethiopian adoption blog for a while. I have no idea who these people are but that's how the blogging world works. We can stalk random people and be inspired. Thank you whoever came up with this fabulous idea.

I would love to add my own thoughts but this guy said it much better than I could. Pretty much sums it up. Happy MLK Day...

okay...I will share some insight from my little man.

Jayden: "Me, you and Hope are the same color and Journey and Daddy are the same color."

Me: "Yep, why do you think that is?"

Jayden: "God."

Me: "Yep, why do you think He did that?"

Jayden: "Cause he likes us that way."

Me: "Do you think God likes it when people that are different colors love each other?"

Jayden: "Yeah...He does. God does like that."

Yes. He. Does.

I could use some of this.

2011-01-12T15:15:00.000-05:00

That my friends is what you call good sleep.

TuTu's

2011-01-12T15:05:00.002-05:00

She sleeps in her tutu.

Does ballet in her tutu.

Gets sassy in her tutu.

Gets down and dirty...rides bikes...plays with trains in her tutu.

"we call her Hope-E. Girl.

2011-01-12T12:39:00.002-05:00

My mom said "hey Hope" and Jayden quickly corrected her "Gram...we call her Hopey Girl."

Maybe her eyes are turning green-ish? Hard to tell but I don't think they're going to be brown like the other two.

Almost laughing. Pictures laughing but with with no noise coming out. Love this baby!

Love girly hairbows. I also can't wait to see what her hair will be like. It's a toss up.

Pretty pretty princess.

yep i made this!

2011-01-12T12:31:00.003-05:00

I'm not gonna lie. It took me a while to figure out what the heck DIY (do it yourself) meant. There is the whole other language out there on blogland. There you have it. I looked up a few different ways to make this little cake/dessert stand and here she stands with some mouth watering Lindor Truffles on top.

Let me break it down (not a "tutorial" I might add:). $.99 cent for the plate; $.69 for the candle holder. Glue (epoxy) that baby to the plate and spray paint (not the top of the plate cause ya wanna be able to eat off it) your favorite color. Instant, cheap, handmade (sounds so much trendier than homemade) gift.

Go Me.

Give me the Biggest Smile Ever.

2011-01-12T12:28:00.000-05:00

And this is what I got...

Cars for Everyone

2011-01-12T12:22:00.002-05:00

She likes to get the wheels tangled up in her hair. Trains work well for that too.

She prefers a simple back and forth "cruising" of her car. Jayden actually gave her this to play with and she grabbed it up. They are teaching her well.

Silliest boy I know...and love.

A Birthday Shout-Out to the One I LOVE...

2011-01-12T12:02:00.003-05:00

Demetrius turned the big 3-0 on December 28th. Cannot imagine my life without him.

Brian leading the "happy birthday" chorus.

I was tempted to post the picture where you couldn't tell how lopsided the cake was but I wanted to keep it real for a second. This HOMEMADE (first ever for me) carrot cake with real grated carrots and cream cheese icing tasty A LOT better than it looked. Lucky for me...my man doesn't give a rip about appearances. One of the many things I love about him.

Happy Birthday Daddy!

Couldn't leave this one out...taken right after Journey poked Demetrius in his eye:)

Family Christmas Photos

2011-01-12T11:35:00.003-05:00

Michelle with Hope.

Auntie...one of the one's to blame for the present overload:)

Auntie Angie...just a short drive away. Thankfully we get to see her quite often!

Demetrius with his B'Ham crew...Uncle Brian, Auntie and Gigi. LOVE you all and am so ridiculously thankful for being brought into your family.

My precious mama! Isn't she so cute in my new red glasses? She'll kill me for putting this one of her on here. I love it...

Pop and the girls. Please notice: thumb in mouth & finger up nose. classic journey. oh, and random headband on the back of her little 'fro.

Jayden and Pop reading a story. They do have that in common:)

LOVE

2011-01-08T20:00:00.001-05:00

Sweet one huh? Minus the crayon/fingerprint artwork on the mirror behind them of course.

Man, this is good.

2011-01-06T07:16:00.003-05:00

If you have a second or two (be careful you may sit on this one a while) head over to "It's Almost Naptime" and check out this post entitled: "I don't want my children to be happy."

Or, if that title doesn't snag you...try this one from the same blogger mama: "Let's go crazy in 2011" I promise this one will get you...it got me. I love her answer to the question why would you adopt. "Because I can't stand the thought of kids in orphanages." Could it be that simple. Yes, I do believe it is.

I hope and pray and hope and pray that our future includes making an orphan our son and/or daughter. I CANNOT stand the fact that there are millions (about 147 million) real live children that do not belong to anyone. No one to cry out to when they're scared or hurt. No one to pray for them when they have a bad dream. No one to feed, clothe or love them. It breaks my heart. Bad.

Honestly, I'm tired. I cannot imagine taking care of another kid or two or three. I want rest, time with my hubby, more rest, more time with the kids I have, more alone time, more money, more things, more rest, more vacation, more more more. But, I am being convinced that these things will not bring me satisfaction or joy (or rest:), nor will they bring glory to the One who calls us to "spend ourselves" on behalf of the poor.

I long to get outside of myself and engage this broken city (world) we live in. We are one step closer to that happening. It doesn't involve adopting at this point but it does involve moving to a "not so desirable" neighborhood in the heart of downtown Orlando. We are making plans and in God's perfect timing we will have unending opportunities to "love our neighbor." Gratitude fills my heart this morning ya'll. Enjoy your day!

Sweet Hope

2010-12-23T23:05:00.002-05:00

This is one happy (drooly) girl!

Contrary to how it appears...these rolls, this double chin and these hand dimples are all natural. No sugar or artificial ingredients:)

Peace.

Just figured out where these slanty asian-like eyes came from. My mom of all people.

Determined to take a taste.

Sit back and relax...

Christmas-time is here!

2010-12-23T22:50:00.002-05:00

My parents and sister are here this week. So, we opened some presents today since my sister has to work on Christmas day. The kids had a blast. Journey took her time opening and inspecting each gift. We had to make her open her next gift. So cute!

Merry Christmas! I'm 16 whole weeks old...

Jayden on the other hand...TORE into his gifts. One right after another in one fatal swoop. He was most excited about this shake and go chick hicks car. Can ya tell?

This is How We Do It

2010-12-23T22:46:00.002-05:00

3 across the back. Can you hear what I hear? "She's touching me!"

Jayden is still LOVE STRUCK. I thought he would be over her by now but he's constantly telling me "I'm so glad we have this baby."

Fun times

2010-12-23T22:38:00.002-05:00

What up?

Flexin' for the ladies.

Baby Princess.

No words for this one.

The real deal Princess Tiana.

Our Little Dennis the Menace

2010-12-23T22:10:00.002-05:00

She gets into EVERYTHING! Including Hope's bathtub. Looks as though she is laying by the pool.

Get's into brother's undies:)

And out of brother's undies...just to read a couple of books. Comfort wins out over style. That's my girl...

Face painted with diaper cream. Imagine bright blue toothpaste as well...that was another day. In fact, the same day that an entire salt shaker was emptied on my table.

Sunscreen/vaseline combo.

New Camera!

2010-12-23T22:05:00.002-05:00

Guess who got a new camera? Thanks Mom and Angie! They secretly said it was a gift for them because they want to see pictures on my blog again....either way I love it!

Is it my imagination or does my baby girl have a noggin' on her? It's like as big as mine:) Love this girl! P.S. She thinks she's a real live princess. I agree.

Daddy Fun

2010-12-11T16:21:00.002-05:00

Demetrius is an incredible dad. The kids shake with excitement when they hear him unlock and open the door at the end of the day. I love seeing their relationship grow.

He took the big kids today while I went to a baby shower with Hope. They always enjoy their special time with their daddy.

Hope Elise

2010-12-11T16:13:00.002-05:00

Our baby girl is 3 months old! How did that happen? She is a fabulous little girl who is quite smiley and talkative these days. She is sleeping 11-12 hours at night and wakes up cooing and happy! Wow...what a gift.

Here is our baby testing out Journey's toddler bed. I took her for her 2mth checkup a few days ago (at 3mths old:) and she was a healthy 14lbs 11oz and 24 inches long. She is more and more content in the swing and bouncer but our girl still despises her carseat. That's about the extent of her troubles...I say we are doing pretty well!

She does great at the ymca and she is still loving the maya wrap. She is easy going and pretty much adjusts her day to whatever we have going on. I think she'll learn to be fairly flexible as a result of being the 3rd kid. We are falling more and more in love with her every day. The big kids fight over who gets to do stuff to take care of her.

Smiley baby!

I'm cracking up Hope's face in this picture! HA...

Best Mall Decor Ever

2010-12-11T16:05:00.002-05:00

Last night we went to the mall to see the huge Christmas tree. The mall is .5 miles from our house and it's fun, free entertainment! Journey brought her shopping bag, cell phone and of course she wore her princess tiara.

The boys. Jayden is copying Demetrius' stance. He says he's as big as daddy. Um...not quite. Handsome as daddy? Most definitely:)

Jayden taking a picture beside his favorite number. We do everything in "5s" at our house. Strange little guy....gotta love him though.

The shopping princess herself.

Brother and Sister

2010-12-11T15:53:00.002-05:00

These two crack me up. Yesterday morning they just carried their blankets and pillows straight from their beds when they woke up and set up shop in the kitchen. Random. Hilarious.

Thanksgiving Day in Birmingham.

Christmas party at Restore Orlando. Minnie and Mickey were there!

Halloween

2010-12-11T15:48:00.001-05:00

All tuckered out after a fun night at Blake and Lindsay's house. Yes, she is naked:)

Trunk or treat.

Wow, look at those muscles!

Friends.

2010-12-11T15:44:00.002-05:00

We are all really starting to make some friends. We helped a few guys move recently and this is their fabulous pool. Yes, this was November:)

Our 2 year old!

2010-12-11T15:29:00.002-05:00

Sweet (gansta) Journey-girl turned two a few short months ago. I do have some good birthday pictures but they are on my mom's camera. I was also a little behind with her 2 year old checkup but she was a healthy 33lbs and 36 1/2 inches tall. Both of those are in the upper 90th percentiles. This picture above is of her wearing Uncle Brian's necklace, which was so heavy she had to take it off occasionally to take a rest. But, she worn it A LOT. And, this is one of my favorite faces she makes.

This girl loves music and anytime music comes on she has to dance. I'm talking she could be half asleep and her hips will start swaying as soon as she hears a beat. She's got it in her...and I love it. She also has the most adorable figure ever. She is curvy in all the right places and I'm not gonna lie I'm a lil tad bit jealous of those perfect curves:)

Most days she is in her princess attire. We have an insane amount of affection for this little girl. There is just something about her that makes everyone melt. Sweet girl. She is also super talkative, loves Dora, can stand up to her brother but is quick to say she's sorry, is a good eater and sleeper, loves books and can run, jump and ride a tricycle.

We took a road trip to B'Ham for Thanksgiving. It was wild and crazy but we survived...and it was totally worth it to see the family. This picture above was taken at Troy University. It was a fun pit stop on our way.

We Love Trains!

2010-12-11T15:25:00.000-05:00

A Few Favorites

2010-12-11T15:21:00.002-05:00

First Smiles (captured 2 mths ago)

2010-12-11T15:18:00.001-05:00

thank you iPhone for allowing me to blog again...

twins

2010-12-11T15:02:00.002-05:00

I often get asked if they are twins. So we decided one day to take some twinsie photos. They thought it was really fun!

blogger blues...still

2010-11-30T08:08:00.002-05:00

I have missed the last few months of blogging. I really need to get a new camera. I'm so NOT inspired to post pictures that are just not that great. In the meantime...I am enjoying reading everyone else's blogs.

The kids are doing great. We just got back from Birmingham...LONG drive/FUN time. Made us miss Alabama but we were glad to be back home in our beds. They are growing up and changing so much. I have to say, we are getting more sleep around here than we ever have! The big kids are sharing a room again and our nighttime troubles have all but disappeared. Hope is a great sleeper and has the sweetest, most contagious smile you've ever seen!

There is a lot going on in our lives right now and I'm trying to figure out a way to get my head around it all. We are still adjusting to life with 3 kids 3 and under. I am aware that i'm not the only one who has ever done this but i'm not kidding...it's hard. Good...but hard:) These days are so important for bonding and attachment and I'm so thankful I get to spend it with them.

Hopefully soon I can post some more details about some upcoming events in the Summerville family. Until then....thanks for keeping up your blogs!

Rewind

2010-11-10T14:31:00.002-05:00

How could I have possibly forgotten to post these amazing photos my dear friend Melonie Grover took this summer? Well I will have you know that I was her first official photography subject and she is now booking sessions left and right. Not only is she a gifted photographer but she is a beautiful person. Thanks again sweet friend for being you...and for these great memories of my time carrying sweet Hope.

Georgia

2010-11-10T14:30:00.006-05:00

I took a road trip with the kids a week or so ago. We went to Georgia to meet my parents at my Nanny's house. My dad and my Nanny had not met our little baby Hope until this weekend. It is a 5 1/2 hr drive without stops. I'm not lying when I tell ya that the trip there was an absolute nightmare...not exaggerating. Our baby girl does not like the carseat. The trip home was sweet redemption though. We had a little birthday party for Journey at this great park on the lake.

Picture above: My dad and Journey girl. Pure sweetness.

Hope stole Dad's heart and Nanny's as well. She enjoyed all the love she received and I enjoyed some extra sleep since she slept in my parent's room:)

Our blue-eyed Beauty.

The prettiest pouting ballerina princess I've ever seen. Do you see the golden highlights in her hair? Doesn't get any better than that. I can't believe all three of our kids are so different from one another. So fun!

Can you say modeling contract anyone? Love this guy!

Love this sweet face.

If you live near me this is what I've looked like for the past two months. Hope loves to be "worn" in this Maya Wrap (a ring sling). This was a gift from my dear friend Melonie and it has been the best baby thing EVER (and I have A LOT of baby "things"). Maya is my new best friend:)

The twins. Just kidding. But seriously I was in target a few weeks ago for a total of 20 minutes and two people asked if they were twins. I'll take that over the lady who dared to ask if they had the same father. Seriously? Uh yah...thanks.

Blogging Blues...

2010-11-09T07:45:00.002-05:00

I really want to catch up on the last two months of our life by doing some posts...but I have no way of getting my photos uploaded to our computer. We misplaced our cord somewhere along the way and need to buy a new one. Until then, my mom will be "guest posting" for me because she has some recent pictures of the kids that are just too cute not to share. Stay tuned...

2010-10-19T14:20:00.000-04:00

BLOGS

2010-10-19T13:54:00.003-04:00

It's funny. I love reading people's blogs that are nothing like mine (i like reading my friends blogs that are like mine as well). I have used mine as a family/kid memory album. Which, i'm so thankful for since I never did the baby books where you write down all the stuff you'll never ever remember. But, I do love to read witty, non-baby/kid story blogs. The creativity of some people amazes me. The acts of mercy and justice of others inspires me. The deep loss of others who share their struggles via their blogs encourages me.

But, for now I will leave you with another great Jayden quote since this is how we do it on the summerville bloggy. Keep in mind that I am breastfeeding and that Hope sleeps in a Moses basket:)

Jayden (as I'm feeding the baby):

"Babies don't drink from mommies and sleep in baskets. They drink from bottles and sleep in beds."

Who knew the kid could do analogies?

He's just that funny. and cute. and smart.

2010-10-07T08:08:00.002-04:00

Me: You are a really great kid.

Jayden (w/ sheepish grin): yeah. and you love me so much.

Our Littlest Love

2010-10-06T21:46:00.001-04:00

Conversations...

2010-10-06T12:15:00.002-04:00

Jayden: Hope has a little bit of hair.

Me: She does?

Jayden: Yep, just like me and journey and mommy but not daddy.

Me: Yeah, what do you think happened to daddy's hair.

Jayden: I don't know. It just went down to his chin. you want to talk about that kinda hair?

One Month Old

2010-10-04T21:09:00.002-04:00

Hope has changed so much in 4 weeks! We are settling in as a family of 5 and we are falling in love with this little girl. My dear friend Melonie has a photography passion/budding business and she took some great pictures of Hope today. I will post more later...

Brothers and Sisters

2010-10-04T20:57:00.001-04:00

8 days old

2010-10-04T20:44:00.000-04:00

3 days old.

2010-10-04T20:33:00.000-04:00

We LOVE our Gram

2010-10-04T20:28:00.000-04:00

Home Sweet Home

2010-10-03T17:27:00.001-04:00

2 days old. family trip to the pool.

Daddy's girl.

Swaddle me.

Random Hospital Favorites

2010-10-03T17:20:00.002-04:00

Although I was only in the hospital for 24 hrs post delivery I was so tired of sitting in this bed I made Demetrius change places with me.

Our little glow worm.

First bath...my babies have some chunky cheeks!

Warming up to her little sister.

The family meets Hope

2010-10-03T17:13:00.000-04:00

Hope Elise Summerville

2010-10-01T12:49:00.002-04:00

Proud Daddy holding his new little girl for the first time.

Daddy hold his other little girl who didn't want to get anywhere near Hope. Don't worry, now she won't leave her alone. When Hope cries you will always hear, "soaky (it's okay) Oope (hope)."

Love at first sight.

Blessed with another beautiful, healthy baby. Couldn't be more thankful.

The new and improved Summerville family. Please notice how the Daddy is sweating but the mama never did break a sweat. Lovely.

For memories sake (and for those who care to know) this is how it went down. I was 2 days shy of my due date when I was induced. I was only 2cm and 50% effaced. I carried this baby about 1 1/2 weeks longer than the other kids so we thought we were certainly going to have a huge baby. I was also surprised because by 37 weeks with Journey I was already 4cm. Had the others been born at 40 weeks they would have been just under and just over 10lbs:) So, needless to say we were very surprised that Hope was only 7lbs 15oz. I did measure a week or so behind and I gained less weight (22lbs) this time, but I know those #s can be deceiving. I remember thinking and saying "she's little" when I met her for the first time. Back to the induction: I checked into Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies at 11am on Sunday the 5th (p.s. last year on Labor Day Sunday I ran a half marathon with my best friend Portia.) The pitocin was started at 12:20 and a mere 5 hours and 8 minutes later our girl was born. I have had super easy and fast labors (compliments of the epidural) and super fast deliveries (as in I've never had to push longer than 1 minute). That's all folks!

September 5, 2010

2010-10-01T12:38:00.002-04:00

It was so fun not know if we were having a boy or girl. We thought it was a girl all along...until I had an ultrasound a few weeks before the birth and thought I saw a boy part. Clearly I was wrong!

I'm really not the type who loves surprises and I couldn't wait to find out the gender when I was pregnant with the other two. But, it was the perfect scenario...no nursery to decorate and plenty of pink and blue stuff to go around.

We have a picture of Journey that looks just like this one.

Welcome to the world sweet girl. We've been waiting for you.

The moment of truth. I actually saw and announced "a girl!" It was a beautiful moment.

Family Pool Time.

2010-10-01T12:31:00.002-04:00

Swimming without getting his hair wet:)

Love him.

The night before Hope was born we all spend some good time together playing in the pool. Demetrius taught his sibling how to swim! It was a hilariously good time.

Daddy aka "the playground."

Stay tuned...

2010-09-29T15:01:00.003-04:00

I have lots of pictures compliments of my sweet mom. She is a picture fanatic and carries her camera around all the time when she visits. I'm so glad.

We have Journey down with a stomach bug and although the baby is also sleeping, Jayden is not. So, I'm off to hang out with him. But, stay tuned for Hope's birth day pictures and more.

Hopefully I will be able to post regularly. Still trying to figure out this new kid. However, she did go 6 hrs last night between feedings. Unfortunately she was awake for 2 of those:0) To say that I'm tired these days would be an understatement. I've decided not to fight it but embrace the tiredness. It really help:)

Professional big brother.

2010-09-29T14:31:00.002-04:00

He has grown up so much in the last 3 months. Although he is still quite difficult at times, he is getting better:) He is a loving kid with an amazingly strong passion to get his way. Love him!

He loves to "play fight" all day long...

He loves all things Cars and Thomas. He does this cute little thing lately where he very matter of fact adds the word "actually" to the end of every sentence. For example, "I am just not tired today, actually."

Loving on daddy before he goes to work. Side note, he is working at the Center for Drug Free Living in downtown Orlando. He has some stories to tell me friends! He likes his job and works with really great people. We are super thankful for that.

Sporting his new Cars pjs. This morning we were driving in the car and he said "Mom (pause) I'm so glad we had this baby." He has been amazing with Hope. So helpful, gentle and protective. If she cries he likes to suggest, "maybe she's hungry, actually."

Her last days as the baby...

2010-09-29T14:20:00.002-04:00

Care free the night before Hope arrived. She had no clue she was about to lose her spot as the baby:(

Love this girl. She loves all things princess.

So stylist in her zip front jean dress.

Ta-da...she LOVES Dora with a passion.

And she really wants to be potty trained. Did I mention that she has climbed out of her crib several times. Too many transitions for the mama...

"But I don't look like Jayden."'

2010-09-29T13:55:00.002-04:00

Washing Jayden's hair is never fun. Demetrius does it thankfully because it totally causes my anxiety to go through the roof. You are wondering why? Jayden screams bloody murder the WHOLE time. Why does he do that you ask? His answer is always the same: "Cause I don't look like Jayden." Well, this picture was the finished product and he did look like Jayden, which is why he was smiling.

He doesn't think he looks like himself when his hair is wet. He won't get it wet when he swims and he freaks out if he gets splashed. Quirky little guy drives me nuts. Good thing we only have to do this once a week.

Checking on the progress.

She just had to get in on the hairdryer fun.

Doesn't he look like a big boy with his NBA towel around his waist?

Could be the last time you see me like this...

2010-09-29T13:46:00.002-04:00

A few days before Hope was born. We are pretty sure this is the last baby. Makes me sad...kinda:) But, our hands (and hearts) are full. We will see...

Whoa!

Around noon on Hope's birth day!

End of July

2010-09-29T13:37:00.002-04:00

These were the last few pictures we took at "our summer home." It was the end of July and right before Jayden dropped my camera and broke it. We moved the 1st of August and that whole month is a blur. Not sure I would have taken a single picture even if I did have a camera:)

"Hey leave me ALONE, I'm trying to relax."

Thought this was funny because they were laying the exact same way. They do act like twins sometimes. And can I add that I am pretty sure Journey is stronger than Jayden. There is only a 4lb difference between them and when they fight over a toy...she wins.

Bye bye amazing lake house. We enjoyed you. Hello 3bd 2ba apartment....we are enjoying you too!

Who does this?

2010-09-29T13:35:00.001-04:00

Only Jayden. Passed out with a million pillows stacked on his legs. How did he do this?

2010-09-22T14:55:00.002-04:00

We are still here if anyone is still checking. We've moved, started a new job and had a baby since my last post! We now have an internet connection so I'll be catching up soon. For now I will leave ya with a few favorite pictures of the kiddos!

My Friend JULIA tagged me...

2010-07-23T08:25:00.003-04:00

3 names I go by...

Amy

Mommy

Elizabeth (dad and grandmother)

3 places I have been...

Bahamas

Mexico

Alabama:)

3 favorite drinks...

Iced Caramel Macchiato

Diet Coke

Skim milk

3 random jobs I have had...

McDonalds (summer beach project)

Volleyball Camp Player/Coach

Craigslist Seller (my current job)

3 shows I watch...

I just realized I haven't watched a single show at my house in the last 2 months...

3 places I would like to visit...

The Grand Canyon

New York City

Hawaii

3 favorite retro TV shows...

Cosby Show

Full House

Saved by the Bell

3 places I have lived...

Troy, Alabama

LaBelle, Florida

Clinton, North Carolina

3 things I am looking forward to...

having our 3rd baby

our parents moving to orlando

seeing my hubby walk through the front door (always)

Weekend Favorites

2010-07-10T12:41:00.003-04:00

Blue skies...

Big girl swing.

Pop's boy loves to fish.

Hot days...cold watermelon.

Jayden's prized possession...."Dinoco."

My fabulous parents.

Best Pop ever.

Gone fishin'...again.

Trying to spot some fish.

Jayden blending in with the house.

Our Princess.

Best sister ever...

Did I mention our girl loves to eat?

"No, Journey's cute, I'm just strong and funny."

Happy girls.

A Pregnant Mama's Dream

2010-07-10T12:37:00.002-04:00

One thing I'm thankful for is this amazing sink (bathtub) in the laundry room. For a pregnant mama with two squirmy toddlers, it's a dream come true. There is also a child sized bathroom just to the left of the sink but we prefer this method instead.

Our Pop is the Best.

2010-07-09T07:36:00.000-04:00

We love "our" pool.

2010-07-09T07:26:00.002-04:00

We are house sitting in our friends house here in Orlando this summer. They have a great hot tub that we use as a pool. It is a daily activity and many days we go swimming two times!

She loves her new floaties and the new found freedom they provide.

Yes, we go fishing in the pool as well. Yes, we do put a shirt on Journey...sometimes. Yes, Demetrius is striking a pose although I'm sure it was unintentional:)

Journey and Pop. This girl has everyone spoiling her. She is such a sweet kid, you just can't help it.

Our little oasis in the middle of summer.

Funny

2010-07-09T07:21:00.002-04:00

I peeked in Jayden's room one afternoon to check on him during naptime and this is what I saw.

And I went to find Journey one morning after things got a little too quiet and this is how I found her.

Playtime

2010-07-09T07:14:00.002-04:00

These were taken a few months ago but I just got them from my mom's camera. We went to a Thomas playdate at Toys R Us one Saturday morning. Journey was just as happy "riding" the Elmo rides (without any movement of course:)

There is a great indoor playground near our house....great for rainy (and/or HOT) days and it's FREE! It's in the mall and the kids really love it.

Journey is definitely not shy or timid when it comes to play time. She will do anything brother does and it actually quite a bit more daring than he is.

Cruisin' around in my automobile.

Technology

2010-07-09T07:11:00.001-04:00

They are their daddy's kids. They can work an iPod or iPhone like any adult can!

31 weeks

2010-07-09T07:07:00.002-04:00

If this baby comes around the same time as the others (38.5 wks) I only have about 7 weeks to go!

2010-07-08T21:41:00.002-04:00

I thought it was noteworthy to mention:

1. All 3 of my children had hiccups today.

2. We haven't used a pull-up on Jayden (day or night) for 1 week!

3. My parents were here over the weekend so I have LOTS of pictures to post...tomorrow.

No Pictures just a Long Overdue Update...

2010-06-30T10:02:00.002-04:00

Jayden dropped our camera so we are picture-less for a little while. So, while I'd rather post a bunch a cute pictures I will write the update that I've been putting off. It's just so much easier to put the fun, easy stuff out there, right? Ok, I do have a funny thing to write...Jayden calls pepperoni "peppered brownie" and Journey calls grapes "beeps." Love it.

So, as most of you know we are not moving back to Alabama like we originally planned. A few different things provoked us to actually pray about our next steps instead of just assuming that our original plan was still what God wanted. Once we did that we really felt like we were supposed to stay put. Crazy. This was just about 2 months ago...it's all still sinking in :) Bottom line...we realize that we cannot fully know the will of God but we definitely think this is what he wants from us right now. So, here we are.

So far we have no idea what we are going to do here. Demetrius is on a full blown job hunt and we are "waiting on the Lord" to show up in a big way. We are house sitting for our friends until August 8th then we will be somewhere else in the city of Orlando! Needless to say we are learning big lessons on trusting God when things don't seem to make sense.

One of the great things about this journey has been the the people we've been in community with at CityChurch Downtown Orlando. I can't put it any better than Paul Miller did in "A Praying Life" (our friend/D's mentor emailed this encouragement to Demetrius a few days ago.)

I wanted to encourage you with my notes from Chapter 28, "A Praying Life". I have commented on them but wanted to give you the actual quotes: "We often don't recognize the Kingdom when it comes. It is so strange, so low. It looks like a mistake. We look inadequate. We feel inadequate. We are inadequate. The Father takes us on the same downward journey he took his son. We want success. He wants' authenticity. The Gospel, the Father's gift of his Son to die on our behalf is so breathtaking that no one has been able to tell a better story. If you want to tell a really good story, you have to tell a gospel story. God keeps retelling Gospel stories in our lives. They entail suffering, so we pray to escape the story, because living in a gospel story exposes our idols. When our idols are exposed we often give up in despair. But by staying in the story, the kingdom comes. Poverty of spirit is no longer a belief. We own it. We return to the real source of love, our heavenly Father. We become authentic. Gospel stories bring meaning out of suffering. As we bring God's mind to our stories, we see his hand crafting connections behind the scenes. This is my Father's world."

We are encouraged and hopeful that the One who has called us to step out on faith is the same One who cares for us and will make our paths straight!

Let me clarify...a few side views.

2010-06-14T23:08:00.001-04:00

So as not to confuse...I just prefer (from here on out ;) to put the skinniest pregnancy pictures on here. I think I deserve that after 3 babies in three years!

Whoa Mama!

three years...

2010-06-14T22:53:00.001-04:00

3 years old.

2 years old.

1 year old.

newbie.

The Birthday Boy is 3!

2010-06-14T22:12:00.005-04:00

Jayden turned 3 on Friday (June 11). We had his party a few weeks ago when our families were here for graduation. It's hard to believe he's been in our lives for three years. We are incredibly grateful to share life with him. The kid is the same (personality/quirks) as ever...always keeps us humble:)

Thomas Party!

The coolest present ever from our new friends the Dugdales! Mommy loves this tent because it fold up completely flat and take up no space at all when it's not being played with...

Daddy and the birthday boy at the Splash Pad.

Enjoying some yummy cake our friend Katie made especially for Jayden.

Family picture...gotta take what you can get (even if it involves swimsuits). Too bad I wasn't turned to the side so you could see my torpedo tummy.

Two of my favorite people...love you!

Auntie's boy.

"Miss Luan" with Joci, Gabbie (our first ever friends), Jayden and Journey. This is typical you see because when these four are together they all want to be in the same 2x2 space:) We are really going to miss our twin friends (who happened to only be 8lbs a piece when we moved in together).

The coolest Thomas cake ever....

My good friend Melonie and her pearl-wearing beauty queen, Selah Daisy.

My high school friend Alisa with her way-to-old-looking, beautiful daughter Tori. I can't BELIEVE how much a kid can change in a few short years....sad.

"happy birthday to you..."

The Family.

Pillowcase Dress

2010-06-07T15:18:00.002-04:00

This is my first sewing project that I've done alone. I bought this vintage pillowcase at goodwill for $.99!

I just wanted to include this picture because I thought it was cute.

I paid $2.67 for a roll of ribbon and in 3 short hours my girl had a new (recycled) dress!

A trip to the dentist.

2010-06-07T15:12:00.002-04:00

Post dentist meal. She was a little traumatized. She was afraid of the masked dentist. Thankfully daddy was there to hold her while they cleaned her teeth. But, he was traumatized because he said she was literally shaking because she was so scared. Randomly, when we got home she wanted to put all these bows in her hair and she quietly ate her lunch without talking to anyone:(

Showing off his pearly whites...he was a little nervous but told the dentist "I'm being brave." That he was! I was so proud of him.