The Johnson Tribe

Hello.

2012-02-01T08:34:00.001-06:00

I have been thinking about the ol' family blog lately...and realizing that it's been largely silent for months now. I guess that grief has been a quiet and personal journey for me. Maybe I am also aware of that fact that no one reads my blog now that my mom is in Heaven! {grin - although, I think my friends Sarah and Jodi read from time to time} Then I remembered that this blog is for me, to record the seasons of my family life, to have a permanent memory available when my own fails me. So, I am back at it. I am going to do my best to blog weekly, even if it's about the ridiculous or mundane, I will blog. I just need to get back in the habit...so, I will begin slowly and stretch those "bloggy" muscles at least once a week.

While the blog has been silent, our house has certainly not! Most days, it's a loud and lovely flurry of activity around here. Our boys are growing...in stature and in faith. They consume more food than I ever thought humanly possible for someone their size. Brad is plugging along in his PhD program - set to finish his classroom portion this May. Oh happy day! {grin} Then, he will move on to the comprehensive exams...sounds like torture to me. He spends his days with Dr. Witherington and I spend my days with Dr. Suess...and then we spend out evenings together. Ahh...it's a good life. I am super proud of Brad's hard work as a student and equally proud of his work as an instructor. He works diligently to teach and serve his students. It's a ministry for sure, and Brad has been faithful in it.

I will be making a mad dash to Indiana tomorrow to spend the day going through some of my parent's things. I am praying that it will be comforting to be surrounded by memories of them. However, I am also fully expecting it to be an incredibly emotional day, as well. I miss them both. It's overwhelming at times. It's really strange, in fact. I am an adult (a middle-aged adult even! ACK!) and haven't depended on my parents to provide for me physically or financially in many years...but, their deaths have left me feeling "orphaned" in some way. It sounds odd, I know. Their deaths have changed the landcape of my extended family and the way we do life together. We are figuring it out as we go along...and God continues to prove Himself faithful. What a gift.

So, I will do my best to remember that this blog is for me and my family...to record our memories and God's goodness as we journey along. However, if you happen to read - leave a comment so that I know I am not alone.

More.

2011-11-18T17:02:00.000-06:00

Calvin Lee “Bud” Sherrow, 70, of Hagerstown went home to Heaven on November 16, 2011.

He was born January 7, 1941 in Richmond, Indiana to Joseph Sherrow and Betty (Sherrow) Parrett.

Bud earned his GED and went on to serve in the United States Army. He served overseas and had fond memories of his time spent in Germany and Korea. Following his service to his country, he returned to Richmond. He worked at Kemper Cabinet Company for nearly 38 years, retiring in 2003.

Bud married Judy Hunter Sherrow on October 7, 1967 and welcomed three children into their family. Bud was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a loyal brother, uncle, and friend. Bud was happiest spending time with his family, making memories with his grandchildren, reading, and gardening.

Bud is survived by his children: Jeff (Laura) Sherrow of Hagerstown, Tony Sherrow of Richmond, and Christina (Brad) Johnson of Wilmore, KY; his nine grandchildren: Ashley Sherrow, Morgan Kincaid, Zackery, Grace, and Lillee Sherrow, Sam, Luke, Caleb and Matthew Johnson. Also surviving are his siblings: Harriet Clark of Franklin, IN, Charlie Parrett (Carol) of Richmond, and Carl Parrett (Sandy) of Richmond. He also leaves an aunt, several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, his stepfather, Ed Parrett; his sisters, Joan Clapp, Carol Simpson, and Brenda Riddle; and his grandsons Dylan Sherrow and Austin Sherrow.

A celebration of Bud’s life will be held at First United Methodist Church at 318 National Road West in Richmond on Saturday, November 19^th at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gleaners Food Bank at 3737 Waldemere Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46241 or www.gleaners.org.

This is my dad's obituary that will appear in our hometown newspaper. The words are all accurate and true...but very inadequate. He was much more than the information contained in those paragraphs.

I have been thinking about how by "worldly" standards, my dad lived a pretty unremarkable life. Aside from his military travels, he lived and died in the county where he was born. He got married to a nice girl, raised three kids, worked at the same job for 38 years...nothing really "exceptional" about his life - in fact, he would seem to be a very ordinary guy.

However, what most folks don't know is that my dad really was extraordinary. He and my mom were the most generous people I have ever known. While they were never wealthy - they always gave as if they were. Honestly, I can remember my folks giving/loaning money to people my entire life. My mom was always volunteering my dad to do things - like delivering Christmas gifts/dinner to someone who had none, helping to fix someone's leaky sink who couldn't afford to pay a plumber, restoring an old bicycle to give to a little neighbor girl who didn't have one, driving my grandmother to play bingo with her friends (grin), fixing someone's car or furnace, and he even helped to paint my mother-in-law's home. My dad's heart was broken when our childhood friend's young son died of SIDS...the only child and apple of his parent's eyes. They wanted to donate all of his things. They gathered up his crib, his toys, his clothes...and my dad went to pick them up and deliver them to the donation site. He told me about how sad he was for the young parents and how difficult it was to see all of the things that this little guy should have used for a long time to come.

My dad was much more than a blue collar guy from Indiana...he was a care-giver, he was an encourager, he was a story-teller, he was decent, he was loyal, he was a good man, he was the most patient person I have ever known, he was a very attentive grandfather - he really knew his grandchildren, he was amazing. He was more than just an "ordinary man" - he was my dad.

Silent.

2011-11-15T00:24:00.000-06:00

My blog has been silent for the past few months. Not because I lack things to write about, rather there is too much going on in my heart, my mind, my life...words don't come easily. However, sleep wouldn't come easily tonight...and words seem to.

My dad had a heart attack in June. I got the phone call that no one wants to receive from my oldest brother in the early hours of the morning. I packed a bag and made the drive to Indiana. Ten months after my mom's sudden death, I found myself in another hospital room. Listening to the sounds of monitors, watching the blinking of lights on machines that were delivering medications, and did my best to take in what was really happening.

Later that afternoon, I met with my dad's cardiologist. He shared the ultrasound images of my dad's heart. It was not good news. I listened as he gently explained that the damage was severe, that blockages had gone undetected, and then he stopped. He collected his thoughts and then went on to tell me that my dad's case was very different than any he had seen before. My dad's heart was severely enlarged - not a normal symptom related to the heart blockages. The doctor asked if my dad had experienced any traumatic emotional event in the past few months. I felt my throat tighten and my eyes began to burn...I could feel the tears coming. I explained that my mom had died earlier that year. He told me that my dad was probably suffering from Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy or "broken heart syndrome" in addition to the other cardiac issues. He smiled and said, "Your dad must have really loved your mom." He mapped out what the next few days would look like...tests to be run, meds to be administered, and questions to be answered. It was all just the beginning of a long journey.

After a week long hospital stay, my dad was released. The docs told us that he was gravely ill and would most likely not survive a month. The next few months would bring a decreased appetite and dramatic weight-loss, the placement of a permanent pacemaker/defibrillator, changes in his diet, and incredible fatigue. The lack of energy seemed to bother him most. We determined to take advantage of the time we had with him. He shared time between his home in Indiana and our house here in Kentucky. Making lots of memories with his grand kids, having really rich conversations about the past and the future, and just loving one another. What a tremendous gift God had given us.

Nearly five months later, we find ourselves at another crossroads. The hospice nurse tells us that he will most likely meet Jesus in just a matter of days now. I find myself so thankful that his suffering will end and the joy will begin...but, my heart is also filled with sadness. I will miss him.

Although I am overwhelmed, I know that God is with me. He loves me. He is able to bear my burden. He will carry me.

"The Lord your God goes with you;

He will never leave you nor forsake you."

Deuteronomy 31:6

Sweet Gift from Heaven

2011-09-13T15:09:00.000-05:00

Today is my birthday. I am not really certain exactly why I have been missing my mom more than usual today...I mean, other than the obvious fact that she gave birth to me. {grin} I guess few people get as excited about your birthday to the degree that your mom does. I have just been missing her...wishing I could talk with her or work on some "project" around the house together or just sit and delight in my little boys as they play. My day has been full of blessings. Sweet hugs and birthday wishes from my little boys, tender kisses from my biggest boy, and cards from dear friends arriving in the mail. I just miss my mom.

After picking Luke up from school {he is in a half-day kindergarten program}, we needed to make a quick trip to get some dog food for Rocky. On our way home from the store, Matthew and I had the following conversation:
Matthew: Mommy, I am sad.
Me: Why are you sad, buddy?
Matthew: Because I miss my Gran. {whimpering}
Me: Oh, sweet boy, I miss her,too.
Matthew: I want to hug her. Do you want to hug her, Mom? {wiping tears from his sweet cheeks}
Me: I sure do, Matthew. If Gran were here with us, she would want to hug us, too. Maybe we will feel better if we hug each other. Do you want me to hug you when we get home?
Matthew: Yes! Is Gran in Heaven, Mom?
Me: Yes, she is Matthew. She is having a wonderful time there. No one ever gets sad, or sick, or scared. It's such a great place, no one ever cries.
Matthew: Is she with God and Jesus?
Me: Yes, she is. Wouldn't it be wonderful to be with God and Jesus?
Matthew: Oh, yes! I want to be with God and Jesus in Heaven. What is Gran doing in Heaven?
Me: Oh, she is singing songs about how wonderful God is...she is singing with her friends, with all kinds of other people who love God.
Matthew: {very excitedly} I want to sing songs with God and Jesus! I want to do that after I am old and I die and go to Heaven. That would be great! I will sing with Gran, too!
Me: That sounds wonderful, Matthew. What a special gift to be with God and everyone else you love in Heaven one day. I want to be there with you, too.
Matthew: Yes, Mom! And Daddy, and Sam, and Luke, and Cal. We will all be singing in Heaven.

So, that is how my Mom managed to give me a gift on my birthday...reminders of the sweet promise of Heaven spoken from my sweet three-year-old's heart. Thank you, Mom. I love you, too. {grin}

This photo was taken on Caleb and Matthew's second birthday...January 25, 2010 (incorrect date on photo)

Quiet Time

2011-06-24T12:35:00.001-05:00

The title of the blog post makes me giggle a bit. It's not often quiet at my house. It seems that my boys are gifted in physical movement and volume...in other words, they are always on the move and always making noise of some sort. The little cuties can't help themselves. They are practicing being brave, bold, adventurous, and fierce protectors...defeating "bad guys" and "big bad wolves" at every turn.

So, in the midst of the madness at the Johnson home...this momma's heart seeks a little bit of "quiet" each day. I need some quiet....an opportunity to think....or complete a task without interruption...or just to "be"...and if I am being completely honest, I'd just like to go to the bathroom alone. {snicker} The days are long and sometimes difficult. I often run out of patience before my little men run out of energy or questions to be aanswered. My work is often undone before I am fully able to enjoy it...you know, like when the freshly mopped floor is immediately marked with little muddy footprints. Thankfully, I am wise enough to know that these are some of the sweetest days of my life. Full of blessings like: chubby little hands that want to hold mine, sweet little voices to tell me that they love me, mischievous little grins and twinkly eyes, and hugs that melt my heart and cause me to fall in love with them all over again.

The kind of quiet I need is not just "alone" time. As a matter of fact, I need to be with Jesus so desperately. Time with Him restores my soul, rejuvenates my heart, stirs up His love within me again, and helps me to find some perspective. My time with Jesus gives "shape" to my life. It brings peace in the midst of the madness.

I have been in the habit of having this "appointment" with Jesus for years, now. I don't want to age myself, but...for over 20 years now I have sought out this time with Jesus. Over the years, this "appointment" has taken many different forms. There have been times of tremendous learning - when God was showing me things in scripture that profoundly affected me and shaped my heart. There have also been "desert" times...when my heart was hurt or my mind was too full to focus.

When our first son was born, I was learning to mother and balance a full plate of responsibilities. With the addition of each child, it became more of a struggle to keep all of the balls I was juggling in the air! During this season of my life I was far too "legalistic" about my quiet time with Jesus. It was as if my time with Him was just another "thing" on my to-do-list for the day.   If the day was nearly gone and I hadn't "gotten it in" - I would flip my Bible open and read anything...and try to find some sort of applicable nugget of truth...then close in prayer. Ahh...the satisfaction of another "thing" accomplished. I had to learn the hard way that it was my pride at work - I wanted to be a "good christian" and having a daily quiet time was part of what good christian people do.   gulp. I couldn't have been more wrong. I was so focused on accomplishing the goal that I didn't allow room for being authentic, for allowing the Holy Spirit to move, or for trusting God's love and not trying to "earn" His approval (or the admiration of others, for that matter). It was a pride issue...one I had to die to.

With the addition of each little blessing into our family...my rigidity in quiet time became more apparent. I was scrambling to keep it all together...and it was all seeming to fall apart. {grin} So how does a mom of four young children find time to be quiet? I love the days when I manage to muster the energy to get my keister (is that really a word) out of bed before my little ones arise to spend some time talking to God and digging into the Word. However, my children are very early risers so this doesn't happen as often as I'd like. Most of the time, my quiet time happens late at night...after everyone is in bed and my house is silent. Usually, I have a few books I am reading...I always spend time praying (I have kept a prayer journal for years - it helps me to see and remember God's faithfulness)...and I always read scripture (if I am not doing a more formal Bible study book). Every day, I am praying (often just to make it through the day). When our first son was born, a dear friend shared this sweet promise...and it has been such a comforting word to my weary-momma heart.

"He tends his flock like a shepherd:
   He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart;
   he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:11

What a sweet thought that God knows and understands the challenges that face "those that have young" and He is so kind to be "gentle" with them. He knows I need to be led gently! Little stolen moments with the Lord throughout the day are my "fuel" and provide some sanity and levity to my days. We usually have a "Praise Dance Party" after lunch. It's simply a matter of crankin' some praise music the kiddos like and dancing around the kitchen. I am amazed at how restorative it is for all of us. It's hard to be cranky or unkind when you are singing God's praises. {grin} Above all, many years of having a quiet time with God have taught me much...I am loved much, I have grown much, I have been given much and I can trust Him fully. What an amazing thought that the creator of the universe longs to be with me...and I desperately need to be with Him, too. Having quiet time with Him makes me a better wife, a better momma, and a woman growing in grace and wisdom.
Thanks, Jodi, for inviting me to join the conversation about quiet times. You can find some more perspectives here.

A four boy pile-up in the hallway makes for one of my favorite pictures. {grin}

Life.

2011-05-02T09:58:00.001-05:00

If the boys didn't sleep...I don't think I would blog at all! The days seem to be so full and I have more duties than energy to complete them. This is the story of every mom's life, right? {grin}

The day seems to go by in a whirlwind of activity. Then, when the boys are all in bed and the house is quiet...I collapse into a heap on the couch. If I am fortunate, my hubby sits next to me and we watch something mindless on TV and chat about the events of our day.

Brad has been working in the evening...trying to keep up with the many classes he is teaching this semester and ministering to his students. The house is a mess. The toys strewn about the house are evidence of a hard day's work by our little boys. The messy kitchen is evidence of a meal prepared with love and shared around the table by our tribe. There is a pile of books near the rocking chair in our living room...further evidence of how this momma spent her afternoon. Sam has a new chapter book from the library resting on the table near the couch...evidence of the independent reader he has become. The evidence is everywhere....they are signs of life in this place. This is what makes this house our home.

The pace of life is hectic...but, so incredibly rich. We're blessed. Brad has a job that he has been called to and he enjoys his work. He is blessed to work with some amazing colleagues and students who challenge and inspire him. We're parents to four healthy, happy, rambunctious little boys who are growing in stature and in faith. The laundry is never done, the kitchen is always littered with dirty dishes and crumbs on the floor, and there are toys scattered around the house...but, I honestly love it. Life is not without it's challenges...but, I wouldn't have it any other way (most of the time).

The Dynamic Duo (Caleb on left, Matthew on right) enjoying a book together.


Sam working on a masterpiece. The date is incorrect.	..the little boy is wonderful.


Luke celebrated his 5th birthday on March 9th. I can hardly believe how quickly the time has passed.

St. Patrick

2011-03-17T11:29:00.000-05:00

The beautiful prayer of St Patrick, popularly known as "St Patrick's Breast-Plate", is supposed to have been composed by him in preparation for this victory over Paganism. The following is a literal translation from the old Irish text:

I bind to myself today The strong virtue of the Invocation of the Trinity: I believe the Trinity in the Unity The Creator of the Universe.

I bind to myself today The virtue of the Incarnation of Christ with His Baptism, The virtue of His crucifixion with His burial, The virtue of His Resurrection with His Ascension, The virtue of His coming on the Judgement Day

I bind to myself today The virtue of the love of seraphim, In the obedience of angels, In the hope of resurrection unto reward, In prayers of Patriarchs, In predictions of Prophets, In preaching of Apostles, In faith of Confessors, In purity of holy Virgins, In deeds of righteous men.

I bind to myself today The power of Heaven, The light of the sun, The brightness of the moon, The splendour of fire, The flashing of lightning, The swiftness of wind, The depth of sea, The stability of earth, The compactness of rocks.

I bind to myself today God's Power to guide me, God's Might to uphold me, God's Wisdom to teach me, God's Eye to watch over me, God's Ear to hear me, God's Word to give me speech, God's Hand to guide me, God's Way to lie before me, God's Shield to shelter me, God's Host to secure me, Against the snares of demons, Against the seductions of vices.

These Two at Three.

2011-02-08T14:45:00.003-06:00

I remember the day well, three years ago (January 25th, to be exact)...my body breathed a sigh of relief and my heart nearly doubled in size when we met our sweet boys. I can vividly remember being amazed to see that there were two pink little babies...not that I hadn't been aware of the fact that we were expecting twins, but still shocked. I don't have words to describe how it felt to see those two babies...hard to take it all in. I can't imagine how mom's of higher order multiples must feel. gulp.

Bringing them home from the hospital was such an overwhelming experience. Months of joy, diaper-changing, round-the-clock-feeding, crying (both mine and theirs) and trying to keep our heads above water followed. Sleep-deprivation left Brad and I in a fog...but, with hearts full of gratitude. What a gift we'd been given.

Fast forward three years and today things look very different in our home. We're now the parents of four little boys...not a baby in sight. Gone are the diapers, we mostly sleep through the night, they are eating non-stop during their waking hours only, and we're coming out of the fog.

Here is what the dynamic duo is up to these days:

Caleb:

Loves to talk and have conversation. He loves to make people laugh.
Eats a tremendous amount of food...yet, still weighs less than Matthew.
Some of his favorite foods are: oatmeal, cereal, granola bars, blueberries, bananas, beans, quesadillas, pizza, salad and he always requests a second helping of meat! Such a carnivore!
Loves to dance.
Loves to go to church. He asks several times a week if we can go.
Says, "Amen!" with gusto!
Loves to be tickled.
Enjoys playing "rough" with his dad and older brothers.
The library is among his favorite places to visit.
Has really good manners.
Screams/squeals loudly when his brothers take things away from him.
Likes to pretend he is a doggie...and threatens to "slick" (lick) you.
Almost always identifies himself as Matthew in a picture.
Loves to ride his scooter and swing on our playground outside when it's warm outside.
Loves his "Pa" (my dad) and always asks for "my Grace" (his cousin)
Doesn't like to sit in time out.
Can recognize nearly every letter in the alphabet (gets b and d confused, struggles with Q), knows his primary colors, can sort things according to size, understands spatial concepts (over, under, beside, etc), can count to 20 (sometimes skipping 16), and sings a ton of songs.
Melts my heart when he asks to "snuggle up with me" on the couch.
Weighs in at 31 pounds (80th percentile) and stands at 31 1/4 inches tall (81st percentile).
Has completely stolen my heart...I'm wacky about that boy!

Matthew:

Has a quick smile and loves to make people laugh.
Loves to be tickled.
Enjoys a good soak/playtime in the tub.
Likes to pray before our meals.
Almost always identifies himself as Caleb in pictures.
Loves to read book and play games.
Loves to play in the snow and jump on the trampoline in warm weather.
Shows great remorse when he has hurt someone/broken something.
Loves to go "bye bye" - anywhere!
Enjoys fruit, salad, rice, quesadillas, fresh salsa, macaroni and cheese,green beans, and always requests desert.
Loves to sing and dance.
Enjoys dressing up and "playing" characters - pirates, buzz lightyear, or a superhero of some kind.
Loves, loves, loves his daddy. He is by far the biggest "daddy's boy" in our family.
Gives the sweetest kisses.
Recognizes all primary colors, understands spatial concepts, can count to 19,
Weighs in at 39 3/4 pounds (81st percentile) and stands 35 inches tall (89th percentile).
Has stolen my heart...I am totally crazy about him.

Happy Birthday Caleb & Matthew!

To take a peek at their three year old photos, go to : http://stephanielyell.com/blog/2011/02/09/johnson-twins-full-post/

Another First...

2011-01-20T13:00:00.000-06:00

We made it through the first Christmas without my mom. I am learning that this grieving process is full of strange and unexpected twists and turns. It doesn't always follow the path you think it will. For example, the weeks leading up to Christmas were so incredibly difficult and complex, in many ways. Sweet memories of holiday traditions that my mom created for my family were both a source of comfort and pain. I loved remembering how she did so many special things to create meaningful traditions that served as an "anchor" for our family Christmas each year. The pain was a result of traditions not created this year with my own family...I had imagined baking cookies with my mom and my boys, making my mom's famous fudge with her, and paying very close attention to how she made divinity - I have no idea how to create this treat that my hubby loves. I was looking forward to sharing those traditions with my family...and my mom's death has left all of these things undone. I have never celebrated Christmas without my mom. It feels strange. There is still joy - after all, the joy of God's amazing gift in Jesus cannot be squelched by the sting of death. Our boys were full of joy and excitement...and filled my heart with joy, too. Such tender little ones full of wonder. The celebration marched on, but in black and white instead of a rainbow of technicolor. So much left undone...yet, life goes on.

Speaking of undone, there are constant reminders of things left undone. My mom died at such a young age (only 63) and so unexpectedly. There are reminders of a life in progress all around our house: a Billy Graham biography with her bookmark at the half-way point, her "Jesus Calling" daily devotional book lying on the bedside table open the day before she died, projects that we had intended to finish, meals we were going to prepare, and the list goes on and on. It's painful.

As I grieve, I am keenly aware of how my boys(including Brad) are processing my mom's death, too. Sam was moved to tears....sobbing...on Christmas Eve. He knew that Christmas wasn't the same with his "Gran." It made him sad. He kept saying, "It's just not the same. It's not right. I want her back with me." Heartbreaking. Walking through this season of grief with our boys has been the most difficult and tender time. We've been honest, we've shared tears, we've validated their feelings, and reassured them of God's promises.

At first glance, Luke appears to be just fine...however, he fearful that I will "go away" like his grandma did. He is never far from my side and is always seeking my affection. Several times a day, I hear him say, "I am going to marry you, Mom." "I am never going to break away from you, Mom." "I don't want you to leave." "I don't want you to go to Heaven." I do my best to reassure him that his Daddy and I are doing all that we can to live a long life with him and that going to Heaven isn't scary - but, wonderful! A few nights ago, we had just finished reading a bedtime story and we snuggle up close for a prayer together. After the "amen," I hear his soft voice say, "Mom, if there was a fire at our house, would we all go to Heaven." Poor sweet boy. I assured him that Daddy loved us all so much that he made our house safe with fire alarms, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. We talked about calling 911 and how firemen and policemen would come help us. I reminded him of our family's plan to meet at our mailbox out front if there was a fire. I tried to empower him to do something...equip him with some skills to help him cope. I am just so unsure of what to say at times. Grief is complex...the process is different for each of us.

Caleb and Matthew continue to talk about my mom as usual. I wonder if they think that the 8 weeks she lived with us was like a "long visit" and now she has gone back to Indiana. They remember things that Gran gave them, books she read to them, and things she said, like "Sweet Dreams" before bedtime. I pray that they will "know" her through the photos and stories we tell them. My mom loved them fiercely.

Sam drew this on the chalkboard in our kitchen. I love it!

Watching Matthew open a gift.


My dad (in the hat) passing out his gifts to the grandkids, Brad videotaping, Caleb (in striped shirt) apparently pulling his pants down.

So, we have survived yet another difficult "first" without my mom. Some things were the same as always: gifts, matching pajamas, birthday party for Jesus, and time spent with our extended family. Many things were very different, her presence was missed....something was "off" with our holiday celebration. But, God was faithful and Christmas served as a powerful reminder of His goodness. With God's help, we made it.

2010 Christmas Letter

2010-12-18T20:10:00.000-06:00

Matthew, Luke, Sam, & Caleb

Dear Friends and Family,

It has been a year of extreme highs and lows for the Johnson Family. Among the greatest celebrations was my (Christina) mom’s retirement in late April. She had worked very hard in her job as the executive director of a lovely apartment complex for retired folks. She loved her job, but was eager to spend more time with her family. A few months later, my parents moved to Kentucky. We were all thrilled to have them close after living far apart for such a long time. We were enjoying lots of great dinner conversations, lots of laughs, accomplishing a few home projects, and our boys were being spoiled by their grandparents. It was wonderful.

My mom became ill very suddenly in late August. She suffered an acute aortic dissection (essentially an aneurysm of the aorta). She had emergency surgery and survived three days before she went home to Heaven. She had enjoyed nearly perfect health all of her life and was a vibrant 62 year old woman. We were stunned and heartbroken. Our extended family, our church family, and our friends have loved and served us well ...shining the light of Christ into this very dark time. The hope of Christmas has special meaning for us this year. Because of Jesus, we have the promise of forgiveness and a Heavenly home. We are all stumbling along as we grieve…and are increasingly grateful for a Heavenly Father who is gentle with the broken-hearted.

Our busy boys have been a source of joy and we’re so grateful. Sam (7) is excelling in first grade. He is an excellent student and a well-loved friend. His imagination is unbelievable, he is funny, and loves all things Star Wars. We’re most proud of Sam’s growing faith…several big conversations about Jesus have taken place over the past year. What a precious gift to share with your child.

Luke (4) is enjoying playing the role of “big brother” while Sam is away at school each day. The twins follow him around and obey (mostly) his every command. He is a sweet friend to them and enjoys “teaching” them things. Luke is an incredibly loving little boy and wants to marry his mom when he grows up. {grin} He also loves to wrestle, run, flip, jump on the trampoline, tumble, and the list goes on and on. Luke loves superheroes.

Caleb (2) is the smaller of our twins, by about 5 pounds and a few inches in height. He is incredibly funny and loves to make silly faces. He has a very tender heart. He loves to hug his mom and play with his brothers. His most favorite activity of all is “wrestling” with his daddy! Caleb loves music, candy, and his cousins. He has been entertaining us by singing, “Frosty the Snowman” the past few weeks. While we have learned much about controlling his asthma and allergies, Caleb was briefly hospitalized this fall with pneumonia.

Matthew (2) mastered potty training a few months ago (much to the delight of his parents) and has become a “big boy” in every sense of the word. He is fiercely independent and can often be heard saying, “I do it by myself.” I am sure that this will serve him well in the future…however; it leads to some frustration now. {grin} Matthew is super snuggly, loves to pretend he is different “characters” (firefighter, daddy, superhero, a puppy, etc...), and enjoys story hour at the local library. Matthew loves to dance, “play” his dad’s guitar, and does his best to keep up with the big boys.

Brad continues to work diligently as a student and a teacher. He is just a few courses away from finishing the classroom portion of his PhD in Biblical Studies. There are many more “hoops” to jump through after that is finished, but we just take one step at a time. He is an excellent student and even presented a paper at a theological conference in California last spring. As a teacher of Biblical Greek, he is loved and respected by his students and colleagues. In his favorite role of “daddy” he can be found wrestling, chasing, riding bikes, playing in the snow, and reading bedtime stories. He installed a fence around our backyard this fall – always thankful for “extra security” with the kiddos. We are outnumbered!

I have come to the conclusion that I am a better homemaker than I am a housekeeper, and I am okay with that! We love having people over to our home and we do it quite often. I am growing more comfortable with the fact that our house is never perfectly clean or tidy…but, pray that our guests feel loved and cared for. My days are spent juggling mothering duties, attending story hour at the local library, volunteering at Sam’s school, trying to keep up with the laundry, and enjoying the occasional date with my husband. I celebrated my fortieth birthday just a few weeks after my mom’s death…a somber reminder that this life is fleeting and so temporal. With God’s help, I am learning to love more deeply, anger less quickly, savor each sweet moment with my little boys, and do my best to live well this life I ‘ve been given. It’s a precious gift.

Each year at Christmas, I am reminded that God chose to reveal Himself to humanity in the form of a helpless little baby boy. What a strange way to impact the world in such a powerful way – through a powerless infant. I am so thankful for this strange and amazing gift…and for God’s amazing creativity in providing a savior that I can identify with. We pray this Christmas you find yourself overwhelmed…not by gifts, parties, and decorations – but, overwhelmed by the goodness of God’s perfect and personal gift. Jesus.

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:9-11

My Lukey Boy

2010-11-15T22:10:00.000-06:00

Our second born son, Luke(4), is quite an amazing little boy. He is full of silliness, lots of "tricks" and jokes, big warm hugs, smooches for his Momma, questions, a tender heart and an occasional bit of wisdom. Now that Luke's older brother is away enjoying first grade for a full day, Luke is the "big man on campus" during much of the day at our home. His mornings are spent playing with his little brothers, reading books with Mom, and entertaining all of us. While the littlest brothers are napping, Luke and I are working on some school skills. He loves it and I think I am enjoying it even more. The learning is fun - he is a bright little guy and it's fun to watch him discover new things. But, our conversations are what I treasure most about our time together. I am doing my best to remember them, write them on my heart...I don't want to forget his precious heart and his innocence. Here are a few recent conversations:

Having measured himself on our family's growth chart earlier in the day, Luke had some questions about growing up.

Luke: Mommy, when I grow up, I am going to shrink back down to be a boy.
Me: Luke, that sounds like fun. But, God made our bodies to grow up just one time. When you are a big man like Daddy, you will stay a big man. You only get one chance to be a little boy - that is why Daddy and I try to make it so much fun for you.
Luke: But, I don't want to grow up.
Me: Why not, honey?
Luke: Because grown ups drink coffee and I don't like coffee.

The conversation from today was heart-breaking and a precious gift all wrapped in one package:

Luke: Mommy, how did Gran get to Heaven with Jesus?
Me: (pausing to pray that God would give me words) Well, Luke, Jesus came to carry her to Heaven. He didn't want her to be afraid, so He came to get her because He knows the way to Heaven and Gran had never been there before.
Luke: (smiles sweetly) That's nice. Can we go pick her up for Thanksgiving?
Me: (fighting back tears) Oh, Luke, that is such a nice idea. I really wish we could do that...it would be so fun to spend time with Gran. But, Heaven is the kind of place you never want to leave. It's so wonderful and Gran is so happy there.
Luke: Oh, okay.

I am so thankful for this little boy who challenges me as a mother and loves me with a God-sized love. What a gift to be his Mommy.

Late Night Gifts

2010-11-05T23:21:00.000-05:00

I don't have the emotional fortitude or the energy to blog these days. I am finding the loss of my mom to be the most brutal experience...yet, there has been such great beauty in this difficult journey. God has revealed Himself in such powerful and unmistakable ways that it has lightened the load of my heavy heart. So thankful to serve a God who is compassionate and kind. I know that I need to blog about the journey, for my own record and for God's glory. I don't want to forget a single act of His goodness. Tonight, I was reminded of this truth.

A few weeks ago, two to be exact, Caleb was having some trouble breathing...his asthma had reared it's ugly head. After a long evening/night in the Emergency Room, he was admitted to the hospital. We would spend our weekend there - receiving breathing treatments around the clock and spending lots of quality time together snuggling and reading books. Hospital stays are torture for a little boy who is accustomed to a pretty regular routine...everything is different. Late Saturday night, as I was drifting off to sleep (I was provided a hospital bed & Caleb had a very institutional looking crib), I heard Caleb's voice say, "Hello." It was as if he had answered the phone. I listened closely...and heard him say, "I'm fine." ....followed by a long pause.....then, he said, "I love you too, Gran.".....long pause......"goodbye." I was in that in-between state, not fully asleep but not fully awake. I initially thought he had the cell phone and was pretending to speak to my mom. So, I got up to check things out. He didn't have the phone, it was plugged into the outlet near my bed. I asked him who had he been talking to, he replied very matter-of-factly "my Gran." I don't know what to make of this...I am honestly not a person who is looking for "signs" from my mom...I know she is in Heaven and is fully surrounded by the Glory of God. I just don't know what to think of this. I finally decided to accept this "gift" spoken from my sweet little boy into the darkness of a hospital room as just that - a late-night gift from my Heavenly Father.

Fast forward to tonight, nearly 2 weeks later. Caleb woke up coughing and crying...in need of his mommy's comfort. I picked him up from his crib and we settled into the comfy rocking chair in the nursery. He began to talk ...this is roughly how the conversation went:

Me: I am sorry you woke up coughing. Let's snuggle for a little bit until you feel better, okay?
Caleb: Okay, Mommy. I was coughing.
Me: I know, sweetheart. But you are okay. Let's pray that God will help you to feel better. (then I prayed a simple prayer asking for God's comfort and healing for Caleb).
Caleb: Mom, Jesus loves me. He will take care of me.
Me: Cal, you are exactly right. Jesus does love you so much...He will help you to feel better.
Caleb: Mom, Jesus made Gran feel better. Gran is with Jesus. She is so happy.
Me: You are right, Cal. She is so happy with Jesus.

So, yet another "late night gift" sent from God from the lips of my sweet little two-year-old boy. I am so grateful.

"The Lord gives strength to his people; The Lord blesses his people with peace."

Psalm 29:11

Grief

2010-09-08T13:44:00.001-05:00

My mom died. It still seems so unreal to me. The wound is still incredibly fresh and my emotions are raw. I am convinced that God loves me and will make this journey with me. In the midst of this unspeakable pain, there has been blessing. I am hoping to blog about it so that I don’t forget the Lord’s goodness when I least expected it.

My niece, Morgan, with my Mom at her retirement party on April 29, 2010.

Judy G. Sherrow, 63, of Richmond went home to Heaven on August 28, 2010. She was born September 25, 1946 in Rhodie, Virginia to Lon and Ruth (Dickenson) Hunter. Her family moved to Richmond when she was a young girl and she remained in the area. She was a graduate of Richmond High School.

She married Calvin “Bud” Sherrow on October 7, 1967 and welcomed three children into their family. Judy was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was a loyal sister and dependable friend, and was happiest serving others. She enjoyed spending time with her family, making memories with her grandchildren, and gardening. She was a member of The Richmond Emmaus Community and Middleboro United Methodist Church.

Judy lovingly served many children while providing child care in her home for nearly 28 years. She was later employed at the Leland Residence. She served in many roles during her 10 years there and retired from her position as the Executive Director in May 2010. Serving the residents of the Leland brought her such joy.

Judy is survived by her husband, Calvin “Bud” Sherrow and their three children: Jeff (Laura) of Hagerstown, Tony of Richmond, and Christina Johnson (Brad) of Wilmore, KY; brothers Jeff Hunter (Cheryl) and George Hunter both of Richmond, and nine grandchildren: Ashley Sherrow, Morgan Kincaid, Zackery Sherrow, Grace Sherrow, Lillee Sherrow, Sam Johnson, Luke Johnson, Caleb Johnson, and Matthew Johnson. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Connie Hunter; her brothers, James Hunter, Tom Hunter, and Merle Hunter; and grandsons Dylan Sherrow and Austin Sherrow.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at First United Methodist Church at 318 National Road West in Richmond on Saturday, September 4^that 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gleaner’s Food Bank at 3737 Waldemere Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46241 or www.gleaners.org.

Monkeyin’ Around

2010-07-22T14:50:00.001-05:00

My oldest brother and his wife are the parents of four fantastic kids. Morgan will be a college freshman this fall and is working to save money this summer. Zack (9), Grace (8), and Lillee (5) have been visiting us this week {“Cousin Camp” as we like to call it} and it’s been such a great time! On our first day together, we visited the Krispy Kreme store to watch the doughnuts being made from their “observation” window. Of course, we ate a few just to make sure their work was okay. It was. Feast your eyes on these cute little kiddos. From left to right: Grace, Lillee, Luke, Sam, Caleb, & Matthew. My handsome nephew, Zack, is way too cool for this silly photo opportunity. He is super cool, by the way.

After this fabulous outing, we headed to Wal-Mart for school supply shopping. With lists in hand, we all worked together to find everything the school-aged kids needed. My parents enjoy this annual event…and the parent’s enjoy this generous gift! It was fun to see what each kiddo chose…all individuals, for sure.

We finished the day off with some time playing outside, a yummy dinner, and grandma’s brownies for dessert. We also made a quick trip to the park before a bath and bedtime. Whew…we were all tired.

Day two of “Cousin Camp” took us to a local inflatable “jungle.” Our 30 minute drive to “Monkey Joe’s” was worth the effort. The kids jumped, bounced, slid, ran and all had a great time. Check out Monkey Joe below with Lillee and Sam posing. Such cuties.

Zack proved once again that he is an incredible young man…following fearless little Matthew all around the place and helping him to climb up and through things. Zack got a workout from shadowing him, for sure. Matthew spent nearly 2 hours running from inflatable to inflatable…no “little jumpers” area for him. Caleb was as predicted, more timid. He loved being in the “little jumpers” area…it was safe, small, and he was content. He did venture out a bit, trying some bigger inflatables. When he did, he big cousin Grace was was right behind him to help. She was amazing…and Caleb loved having her attention.

Zack and Matthew after the big slide.

Matthew followed by Zack, & Caleb followed by Grace.

Luke thinks that Monkey Joe’s is heavenly! All the bouncing and running a busy boy like him could handle…and no one even says, “no!”

Caleb happily jumping in the “little monkey’s” play area.

The kids were all really tired and hungry…so, we headed for a bite of lunch. We filled our bellies and then came home to chill out a while. The little boys napped and the big kids entertained themselves as follows:

Zack tutoring Sam in the ways of Star Wars Lego video game.

Grace lounging and watching the video game playing.

Lillee and Luke reading books together.

We’re tired and the day isn’t over yet. Hopefully, we’ll have a low-key evening of hanging out and playing together. We don’t often have this much time together…living nearly 4 hours apart from one another. I am so thankful that our boys have this special time with their cousins…what a blessing.

A Visit From The “Old Codger” and His Crew

2010-07-17T13:20:00.002-05:00

Brad is a blessed man for many reasons… ~~a lovely bride with mad cooking skills among~~ among the reasons are his grandparents. His maternal grandparents {affectionately known as MaMa & PaPa – pronounced maw-maw and paw-paw} have lived long and faithful lives and played an important role in our boys lives. MaMa had a stroke in January of 2009 and her health began to decline pretty quickly afterward. She went to be with Jesus in May of that same year. We miss her…a lot.
PaPa has done his best to adjust to this “new normal” of living without his wife of over 60 years. He recently took a trip “down home”, to his birthplace. He visited with old friends and his siblings and their families who still live in North Carolina. At 88 years old, PaPa has finally given up driving. Brad’s brother drove PaPa, NeeNee Linda {Brad’s mom}, and Aunt Sherri {Linda’s sister} on their big adventure. After a week full of fun, they stopped by our house for a sleepover before heading home to Indiana. I guess they were looking to end their vacation with some extra excitement! {snicker} The Johnson boys excel in creating excitement! This photo is proof. Notice young Luke smiling politely for the camera. Sam has PaPa’s hat and cane, pretending to be an old man. Caleb and Matthew have stopped squirming long enough to capture this image. George {the dog} seems to be the most obedient. Amazingly, PaPa is grinning from ear to ear. What a good sport. He loves these little squirrely great-grandsons of his.

On a previous visit, PaPa had been working on a cross word puzzle {one of his favorites hobbies before his eyesight began to fail} and Sam was intrigued. He very patiently explained the puzzle to Sam, clues to down words here…and across words there. He asked PaPa how he knew all of the answers. PaPa laughed {his grin is so broad that his eyes disappear – it’s adorable} and told Sam that when you live to be an “old codger,” you know lots of things. So, thus began a new “inside joke” for PaPa’s stay. We all called him the “old codger” and he loved it.
All of the boys love crawling on PaPa and asking him questions about everything. They took turns wearing his hat and walking with his cane…and he just took it all in. It seemed like his heart was full. I sure hope so…we love that “old codger.”

Potty Training Twins

2010-07-11T21:53:00.002-05:00

For months now, Caleb and Matthew have been going “potty” occasionally, at convenient times when they are already sans clothing : before & after a bath or a diaper change. They have shown some interest,but not overwhelmingly so. I am not a fan of changing diapers…but, I also know full well the challenges that potty training brings. I have not been in a rush to get the twins potty trained. Sam and Luke were both potty-trained just a few months shy of their third birthdays – and it was effortless. In just one day – SHAZAM! We had success! Only one or two accidents in the following days. So, I was comfortable waiting a bit longer if it meant an easier transition. I have heard so many stories about potty training that takes place over a period of months. I wanted no part of that misery.
Potty-trainers get really fired up about their new-found skill and want to “go pee pee” in every possible location…each restaurant, store, or home you visit – and for my boys, each tree or bush they find along the way! Potty-training also involves a bit of OCD on the parent’s part: repeatedly asking(as if your life depended on it) if they have to “go potty?” It also involves remembering to bring an extra change of clothing (or two in our case) everywhere you go…just in case! However, the process doesn’t last long and the rewards are well worth the effort. Perhaps the greatest blessing has been the reduction in diaper changes around here. For nearly seven years, we have been changing and wiping the bottoms of at least one of our sweet boys ~~I have tried to erase the brief period when three were in diapers from my memory.~~
With all of that said, I must admit that I am a bit sad. My “baby’ boys are growing up. I am choosing to focus on the freedom that this new phase brings…and to celebrate that God is growing my boys up just as He should! I just wish that it didn’t happen so quickly. {sniff}

Caleb (left) and Matthew (right).

Isn’t the difference in their skin tone remarkable? Matthew isn’t more “tan” than Caleb – all natural coloring.

Toothless

2010-07-11T21:25:00.001-05:00

Sam has reached another childhood milestone…losing his top front teeth. Several months ago, he lost both of his bottom front teeth within a matter of days. So, we’re waiting patiently for the other top tooth to come out. However, Sam prefers to allow nature to take it’s course rather than aggressively move forward on his own (read: he allows the tooth to fall out…really, fall out.). He doesn’t enjoy wiggling or moving his loose tooth…I think he’s fearful it will hurt. My man Sam does not enjoy pain. So, for now we enjoy his sweet little grin and talk about how cool it is to have a “window” for his straw to fit into when he drinks. {grin}

Can hardly believe he is about to be a first-grader. {gulp}

Where to Begin?

2010-06-26T21:37:00.001-05:00

I think I am suffering from a severe case of “I-am-so-far-behind-I-don’t-know-where-to-begin-itis.” I have at least a million blog posts swirling around in my mind…along with my grocery list, a reminder to ask Brad to trim the boy’s nails (the is the chief mani/pedi man around here), an ever-growing list of thank you notes to be written, and the list of phone calls to return. This blog is read by ~~a few friends~~ my mom….but, it’s real purpose is to be our family’s scrapbook. So, I have these major events that need to be chronicled here for the sake of our family history. Things like: Caleb and Matthew celebrating their second birthday, Brad celebrating his 29th birthday again, Luke celebrating his fourth birthday, Sam finishing kindergarten, my mom retiring from her job, and great conversations had with the boys that left me in fits of laughter and with tear-stained cheeks. I am so far behind that I find myself overwhelmed …unsure where to begin. So, I have decided to blog on, as if I never missed a beat (or in this case, a major life event). So, tomorrow is a brand new day …and a fresh start in my blogging mind. {grin}

The Big News

2010-05-10T13:10:00.001-05:00

Okay, so it’s not really big news in the traditional sense. No need to interrupt regular broadcasting for this bit of news. No, I am not pregnant. That would be more dramatic news than simply “big news.” My parents are moving to Kentucky, however!

My dad retired several years ago and has adjusted quite nicely to his life of leisure. My mom retired from her job at the end of April. She has served as the director of a senior living apartment complex in my hometown. It’s a lovely historical building that was once a hotel (as a matter of fact, B and I spent the first night of our married life there) and has found new life as a home for folks 55 and older. My mom has done amazing ministry during her time there and accomplished so much. We couldn’t be more proud of her. In an attempt to show her how proud we are, we loaded up the minivan and pointed it north to Indiana to attend a retirement reception in her honor. It was a lovely afternoon of meeting her friends, the lovely people she has loved and served, and to listen as people spoke of her tremendous impact on their lives. Many tears were shed as folks told me how much they will miss her. I am so thankful that my mom is the sort of lady who values people and not things.

Because of her great love of people, she and my dad are moving to Kentucky in just a few short weeks. My family and I are all eager to have them here…just to live life together. For nearly 17 years, I have lived more than 2 hours away from my parents…nearly six of those years a four hour drive from them. So, at best, our relationship with them has been a weekend at a time. I realize that this is not a huge distance compared to some families, but we are excited to spend more time with them. You know, “normal” time – not holiday visits or special events. We’re all looking forward to the luxury of sharing meals together, enjoying some of Gran’s good cooking, playing with Pa in the backyard, loving on George (their cute dog), having time to enjoy long chats after school and reading books in the rocking chair. Just enjoying one another. Lots of sweet memories to be made between my boys and my folks. I know we’ll all be the richer for their being here with us.

This picture was taken at Caleb & Matthew’s second birthday party. Note Sam and Luke’s lovely facial expressions. I love them dearly ~~in spite of the the fact that they ruined an otherwise great photo.~~ {grin} B

Knock, Knock

2010-04-18T22:46:00.001-05:00

Who’s there? It’s me! I haven’t blogged in over two months. I have missed writing the memories of my days…the wonderful and the frustrating…and marking the milestones of my little men. There have been a lot of distractions that have kept me away: the hard drive on our computer died, we celebrated 4 birthdays (Caleb, Matthew, Brad, & Luke), had lots of company visiting, some of us battled a virus, and other sorts of busyness. Brad, Sam, & Luke at Shakertown Creative Boys at Work

Oh yeah, we’ve also been busy listening to Matthew’s new knock-knock joke and pretending that it’s hilarious.

Matthew : Knock-Knock

Us: Who’s there?

M: Baby crying.

Us: Baby crying who?

M: (big grin)

So, there are blog posts about birthday celebrations, Easter celebrations, and family/friends visiting coming in the next couple of days. Oh yeah, there is also a big change in store for our family in the near future… {grin}

Back At It

2010-01-29T22:18:00.001-06:00

Wow...I think I have been struggling with some writer's block, some serious lack of motivation, or just feeling overwhelmed in how far I have gotten behind here at the ol' blog. But, I think I am ready to get back at it.

As promised in the last post, I gotta few things to cover from the holiday season. We'll do it bullet point style!

We hosted our second annual “Johnson Gingerbread Party.” Sam and Luke each invited a friend over to decorate a gingerbread house one Sunday afternoon. It was such gooey, sugary, sweet fun to watch our boys and their friends be creative. Much fun was had and much candy was consumed. {chuckle}
My sweet little Sam certainly has his mother's blood coursing through his veins. He suffers from the same excitement and anticipation issues as I do. {grin} I can vividly remember being so excited for Christmas to arrive that I would lay awake for hours before finally falling asleep on Christmas Eve...only to awaken a few hours later and then trying to convince my parents that 3:30 am was a great time to begin the celebrating! The Lord used these sweet childhood memories to help me give Sam the extra grace he required on Christmas Eve. He woke up at around midnight (just minutes after I had finished placing the gifts under the tree and stuffing stockings) and asked me to snuggle with him because he was having trouble getting back to sleep. I called upon my own childhood memories and mustered the strength to stumble to his bed with him. We lay in the dark whispering and giggling...I am so thankful that God caused me to be gracious to Sam...I could have missed making that sweet memory with him. Did I mention that he finally fell asleep at 4:30 am? Oh yeah, he was awake again at 6:30 am ready to go!
Christmas day was simply sweet. It was just the six of us enjoying the day in our old Kentucky home. We sang "Happy Birthday!" to Jesus and enjoyed some of His birthday cake for our breakfast. This tradition began back in 2004 and it's one of my favorites...and I think the boys enjoy it, too.
Luke sang "Happy Birthday, Jesus!" for weeks on end, both before and after Christmas. It made my heart smile to hear his sweet voice singing this song of praise. {grin}
Matthew was so excited about his gifts on Christmas. He is a man of few words, but is always expressive. His eyes open wide, his eyebrows raise, and his mouth forms a perfect little "o" shape as he says, "Ohhh!" and "Wow!" and "Ahhh!" Such a sweet boy who truly appreciated each gift.
Caleb took on the job of reminding me to turn on our outdoor Christmas lights each evening. He’d run to the love seat in our living room and look out the window while instructing me to “Turn on, Mommy!”
Sam used his allowance money to buy gifts for each of his brothers. We did our shopping at the dollar store - lot's of options for a boy with $5 in his hand. He thoughtfully chose a gift for each of his brothers and took great pride in wrapping them himself.

Caleb opening his well-wrapped gift from Sam.

The sight of my four boys in matching pajamas on Christmas Eve thrills my heart. I know that this is not normal...but, as a mom of all boys - there are so few "clothing related" joys! {giggle}
As an afterthought, I bought a very inexpensive gift for the boy’s stockings. A package of 4 silly glasses/nose things (what are they called anyway?) for one dollar. These turned out to be the “hit” of the day. We laughed at one another and really got our money’s worth of them. Luke and Sam…so stylish.

Is that Peter Pan in disguise or Matthew?

The boys and I all enjoyed having more time with Brad during the holidays. Things are always better when Daddy is home. {grin}

I think I am on a roll now….getting excited about getting caught up. So many more good stories to tell about how God is restoring Caleb’s health, time with our extended family’s over the holidays, and the twin’s second birthday celebration! I really am back at it!

Overwhelmed...and Overdue

2010-01-10T21:51:00.000-06:00

I am feeling a bit overwhelmed these days. It's all sorts of good things that are making me feel this way. We've hosted both sides of our families at our house over the past few weeks. Some dear friends from out of town came to visit us, too. Most recently, two of our former youth ministry students (siblings, who are now in college- eek!) came to spend a few days with the tribe.

It was wonderful to have so many people that we love in our home...and a blessing to be "loved on" by so many, as well. Our boys seemed to understand that something special was going on...to soak up every minute spent with our visitors. They knew that something extra special was happening. There were extra hands to hold babies, extra plates set at our big table, extra people to read books in the comfy rocking chair, extra people to laugh with, extra people to make us laugh (Wii fit is a riot as a spectator sport), extra giggles, extra hands to change diapers & wash dishes, and an extra special feeling that comes from being surrounded by people you love and who love you in return. All of the excitement has left our boys a little bored now that we've returned to our normal life - with just the six of us.

I am having issues uploading photos again...and I find myself coveting cameras. That is a miserable feeling. I know that I am blessed beyond measure, but there always seems to be just one thing that I am lacking. I am so thankful that God is so patient with me. {sigh} Anyway, I have lots of fun pictures to post...I just can't get them uploaded from my camera to the computer. I am working on it and will hopefully have a little "eye candy" for you soon. Golly, those boys of mine are adorable. {grin}

In the meantime, you can look forward to hearing all about:

Sam's insomnia on Christmas Eve.
Luke's joy in singing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus.
Caleb enjoying Jesus' birthday cake immensely.
Matthew's infectious joy as he opened gifts...saying "ooh" and "ahh" repeatedly.
The wonderful way God is restoring health to our Caleb.
My nieces, Ashley and Morgan, bringing my Mom & I to tears.
The sweetness of our simple Christmas.
Details of our visitors...and the fun!

It's coming...I promise! {grin}

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2009-12-24T10:01:00.000-06:00

The month of December has been chock full o' blessings...and the page on the calendar hasn't even been turned yet. It always feel strange to begin a calendar for the new year...everything about it feels odd. The pictures aren't the same style, the font is different, it's squares aren't full of activity, and the new year just looks "odd" to me. 2010 just seems foreign. Okay, that is enough about my new calendar...I am sure that our relationship will grow over the coming months. Just in time for me to welcome my 2011 calendar. {grin}

I managed to choose the least horrible picture of our four little men for a Christmas card. Don't misunderstand, the Johnson boys are incredibly handsome and photogenic. We have such amazing individual shots of them. Getting a terrific photo of the four of them is much like nailing Jell-o to the wall. If you have more than one child, you know what I am talking about. Caleb is drooling, Luke is crossing his eyes and sticking out his tongue, Sam is looking at a squirrel across the yard, Matthew is sticking his finger up his nose, or my favorite - when we ask the "big" boys to "hold" their little brothers, someone always ends up in a choke hold. So, it's rare to get a good pic of all 4 boys. I figure anyone getting our Christmas card this year understands our situation, and they'll have to laugh along with us. Speaking of the Christmas card, this year I was so on top of things. I ordered the cards early, wrote the letter in record time, and then failed to buy postage stamps for the next 3 weeks! Go figure. Getting to the post office is not high on my priority list, I suppose. {grin} They finally got mailed on December 22nd.

We buy only three gifts each for the boys, so shopping would seem easy. However, when you get a few gifts, you have to choose wisely. I managed to get it nearly completed in one full day. Whew! Now, we are just preparing for Jesus' birthday party. Gotta bake a cake & get out the party hats! Then we'll make final preparations for our family who is visiting from out of town tomorrow. Can't wait to see them! It is the most wonderful time of the year!

We Survived Thanksgiving

2009-12-06T22:40:00.001-06:00

Once again, we loaded up the tribe and pointed the mighty mini-van northward to Indiana. The past few years, we have celebrated Thanksgiving with our extended family in the Hoosier State and then stayed home for Christmas. It allows us to remain in our pajamas until at least lunch time, take our time in reading the story of Jesus' birth (we read from a "grown up" Bible and a children's Bible), open our gifts leisurely (Sam struggles with this part...he gets incredibly excited {grin}), sing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus and blow out the candle on His cake, and then enjoy a big holiday meal together. All without the stress of having to rush out the door with bags in hand. It's one of the best decisions we've made as parents. In spite of missing our extended families, it just feels right for our little family. So, we make the trek to Indiana for Thanksgiving to be with our loved ones.

Traveling with four little men ages 6 and under is madness. Our parents live just over an hour away from one another and both live in very small houses. After all, they are empty nesters. My mom always makes a comment about how small their space is ...and I always reassure her by saying something like, "This house works perfectly for you and dad 98% of the time. When my family invades your space, we swallow it up." It's true...we are a tribe of 6! So, when you take four little men out of their normal routine, strap them in a car seat for 4 hours, give them a "nap" while en route, and then put them in an unfamiliar place to sleep for the night. Trouble is bound to come! For the most part, it's fine. However, it's exhausting to shuffle things around: suitcases, pack and plays, diapers, clean clothes, dirty clothes, cameras (to capture the images of memories being made), coats and hats, and at least a million other items. We had planned our time to maximize the fun and minimize the disruption...or so we thought. It seems that something always happens to mess up our well-laid plans. {grin} Caleb struggled a bit with his asthma, his breathing was rapid and he was wheezing. Thank God that I felt the "nudge" to pack the nebulizer machine in our suitcase. We needed it. Brad and I were able to handle it, and it felt good to know what to do. He was up several times throughout the night. I gave him breathing treatments and prayed over him. Such peace comes from knowing that when your little one is sick, you can call on God for help and healing. He is faithful to hear and answer prayer. I am so grateful to know that God loves my boys even more than Brad and I do. Amazing.

So, we ate (a lot), we drove (a lot), enjoyed being with our family (a lot), enjoyed a lunch with our youth-ministry friends (a lot), and then we headed home. We made some sweet memories along the way, too. I treasure the opportunities for our boys to spend time with Brad's grandfather...he loves watching them and gets a kick out seeing their latest "tricks." {grin} In fact, we were so busy making memories, that I didn't take a single picture!

Lukey Boy

2009-11-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

That's how Luke prefers to be addressed these days, "Lukey Boy." I indulge him because I think it's adorable and I love him so. {grin} It seems as if my little boy is growing quickly these days...not physically, but socially, emotionally, and academically. He is better able to put words to his emotions...."I am very sad." "He is making my angry." "Sam, stop. I don't like that." This is helpful in so many ways - we're better able to meet his needs and he feels "heard" and understood. Fewer tantrums and better communication...it's a beautiful thing. Socially, he is less fearful of strangers these days. As a matter of fact, he is down right friendly to them. He has no issues with announcing his name to someone and then proudly introducing them to me..."I am Lukey Boy and this is Mommy." He has nearly mastered sharing and taking turns. When the boys wrestle with Brad, Luke is quick to "cheer" on his brothers while he waits patiently for his turn. Sweet heart. {contented sigh} Academically, he has come from out of nowhere lately! I have not started any formal homeschooling with him yet. I thought we'd spend this year snuggling and reading extra books before nap time while Sam is at school. After all, he has never had much "alone" time with me...and he is only three. Imagine my surprise when he began to write his name a few weeks ago. I took at picture of the second attempt.

He has been writing like mad lately. He has written his grandparents names, Mom, Dad, Caleb, Sam...Matthew is apparently too long. {snicker} Just tonight he wrote the alphabet from A-Q on our deck before dinner...only stopping because I asked him to come in to eat. What a smart boy he is! It's so fun when things start "clicking" with a young learner. It's exciting! Lukey Boy loves that he can recognize letters and some words...and Daddy and I love it, too.

Sweet Sam wrote Lukey Boy this letter after he successfully wrote his name. It says, "Dear Luke, Good job on writing your name!"

Lukey Boy, we are proud of you!

We Lived to Blog About It...

2009-11-19T15:56:00.001-06:00

Whenever one of our children gets sick, I breathe a prayer asking God to not allow all of our boys to be sick at the same time. It's been a personal fear of mine since adding the twins to the family. I just can't begin to imagine how Brad and I would care for all four of them at once. Images of me having not showered for days, wearing holey pajamas, and my hair standing on end come to mind...oh, wait...that isn't so hard to imagine. {snicker}

Last week, the inevitable happened. It began with Caleb. He had sneezed a few times before he went to bed on Wednesday night and then woke up Thursday morning with a runny nose. By lunchtime, he was sounding "breathy" (like he was breathing more rapidly than normal), so I gave him a breathing treatment. I prayed and then put him down for his afternoon nap. When he woke up, I checked his respiration rate (I'm fairly certain that low 30's is normal for a little guy his size - and anything over 40 would be cause for concern) - it was 46. He was beginning to sound "wheazy." I gave him another breathing treatment and called our pediatrician's office. I made an appointment that would allow me to get Sam from the bus and then jet to the office to see the doctor.

I called Brad at his office to let him know what was going on. He suggested that I call a babysitter to stay with the other boys so I wouldn't have to take everyone. I love that man! So, the sitter arrived and off we went. The doctor saw him and suggested another breathing treatment...not much help. She took some blood for evaluation, she checked his blood oxygen level, did a chest x-ray...and ultimately, decided to send us to the hospital. She suspected Caleb had viral pneumonia. The doc went to write hospital orders for us.

Brad was in class (we only have one cell phone - and I had it), so I called the seminary's switchboard to see if someone could get a message to him. The person who answered explained that they couldn't leave and there was no one to deliver a message to Brad. I cried. Then, I called my friend, Jodie. She always seems to know just what to say and do. She told me how sorry she was and then quickly volunteered to go to my house (taking her own 2 kiddos with her) to relieve the sitter and put my little ones to bed. I love her and my kids love her, too. I was worried for Caleb - but, now had total peace about my boys at home. Moments later, the cell phone rang. It was Brad! {grin} Someone had delivered a message to him! God is so good! We talked for a minute - exchanging concerns and plans for the evening. Brad would go home to be with the other boys and I would go to the hospital with Caleb.

As I drove to the hospital, I called my parents to let them know what was happening. My mom said, "Do you want Dad and I to come tonight or early in the morning?" I love that my parents don't hesitate to help us when we need them. Such a blessing. We agreed that there was nothing they could do that night, so they would leave to make the four hour drive the following morning.

Caleb and I arrived at the hospital, parked in the large parking garage, and made our way to the pediatrics unit. They immediately got to work registering us, getting Caleb into a little baby hospital gown {pitiful sight}, and then started an IV. He would get some extra fluids, potassium, and antibiotics through this tube connected to his little hand. {another pitiful sight} The nurses were kind...but, Caleb and I were grumpy. We hadn't eaten dinner and it was past Caleb's bedtime. We were getting settled into our room when a respitory therapist came to give Caleb another breathing treatment. She hooked him up to the pulse/ox monitor (via a little probe taped to his toe) and then called the doctor to ask about oxygen. She came back to place a little nasal canula in his nose and start the oxygen. {yet another pitiful sight} It's a good thing that we liked this therapist, because she would be back every 2 hours through the night for another breathing treatment. Caleb and I did not sleep much. I was able to keep my cool...but, I was worried for Caleb, I missed my husband, and I missed my other boys. I spent much of the night praying for my little man and thinking of all of the other mommy's sitting by the bedside of their sick little ones.

The sun finally began to rise and our pediatrician arrived soon after. He told me that Caleb was a very sick little guy and that it would take some time for the meds to turn things around. Brad arrived just after breakfast with a bag of things for me. He stayed to hang out with Caleb while I showered. Relief! It was wonderful to see my hubby and terrific to get a shower and change clothes! Brad left for work and Caleb and I just hung out. He was tired, restless, and tethered to the machines by cords attached to his body. It was hard to keep him happy.

Just before noon, my cell phone rang. It was just out of my reach - and Caleb had just fallen asleep in my arms, so I let it go to voicemail. I knew that my parents and Brad both had the direct number to the hospital room, and they would call if they needed me. Turns out, it was Sam's school calling me to come pick him up. Poor little guy had gotten sick and school. After a round of phone calls, I had given the school verbal permission for my dad to pick Sam up. He had a high fever and felt miserable. I was so torn - wanting desperately to be in two places at once. My mom snuggled with him, gave him plenty of liquids, and kept him medicated with ibuprofen to reduce the fever. Soon after, Matthew would spike a fever, too. It was incredibly difficult to feel pulled in so many directions. I just kept praying that God would bring healing to my boys and peace to my heart. Sure enough, He did!

We continued with round the clock breathing treatments, IV fluids and antibiotics, oxygen, and added percussions on his back to break up the "gunk" in his lungs. He was restless and just not feeling well. It was a full-time job to try to keep Caleb content. We read more books than I would have ever thought humanly possible, sang more children's songs than I thought I knew, and cuddled so much that even my "needy boy" was satisfied. The most difficult thing about our hospital stay was the "rages" brought on by the oral steroid he was taking. It was tough to watch him just get so angry and frustrated that he simply couldn't control his emotions. It happened once or twice - usually at night. During these "roid rages" there was no comforting him. I just held him close and whispered Scripture in his ear. It was exhausting for both of us.{sigh}

Saturday, Brad came to the hospital to stay with Caleb so I could go home to see our other boys for a bit. It was so good to see them - they all greeted me at the door with shouts of "Mommy!" It did my heart good to see them...but, it was so hard to leave them a few hours later. Sam tearfully asked if I could, "just go get Caleb and come home." So sad.

I made my way back to the hospital and visited with Brad for a few minutes. After he had gone, Caleb and I snuggled into my hospital bed for a bit. The nurse came in to unhook his IV - and switched us to an oral antibiotic. I was so encouraged! After Caleb's next breathing treatment, the respitory therapist felt confident in removing the oxygen. Dinner arrived shortly afterward (one nice benefit to the hospital stay - meals delivered three times daily!) and I managed to find some things Caleb would eat. I gave Caleb a sponge bath and hoped we'd settle in for a better nights rest. Our pediatrician arrived to check on him (docs come twice daily - morning and evening) and said his lungs sounded great! He asked if we'd like to go home...I laughed in disbelief and asked if he was kidding. He told me that Caleb sounded much better and we could give him the care he needed at home, where he would rest better. I nearly did a cartwheel! I just kept saying, "Praise God! Praise God!" The nurse removed the IV (although it had been unhooked earlier), disconnected the monitor, and began the paperwork for our discharge. After getting instructions for his care at home from our doc, I dressed Caleb and packed our bag. We were both a little giddy as we left the hospital. It was 8:00 pm - an hour past his bedtime and he was asleep before we left the parking garage.

When we arrived at home, Caleb was a little unsettled - I think it was a combination of exhaustion, re-entry, and the steroids. He snuggled a bit with my mom (his "Gran") and then went to bed in his own crib. Sweet sight, for sure. Doctors orders required breathing treatments every 4 hours for the next 3 days. Medications were dispensed at several different times each day. It was like being in the hospital, only we had become the nurses & therapists. The oral steroids and inhaled steroids combined were incredibly powerful. His breathing improved dramatically, but he was wired! His pupils remained fully dilated for days, his behavior was more aggressive, and his appetite was enormous. . I am so thankful that Brad was willing to share the middle of the night breathing treatments with me. Caleb usually ended up sleeping through all of the commotion.

We follow up in a few days with a chest x-ray to be sure the pneumonia is gone. But, for now, we are just savoring every day we have with our healthy boy. I was too busy to take pictures at the hospital - and my hands were full with my sweet baby boy. I did manage to get a few as we were leaving.
For some reason, I am having trouble posting pics right now...we'll try again later.

Ready to go home!

IV is finally gone!

Caleb's crib and IV pump

My bed and our stuff waiting to be packed!

Meds to be given at home.

Treats on Main

2009-10-31T21:49:00.001-05:00

One of the very best things about living in our small town is celebrating holidays here. Each year, fire trucks block off the main street through downtown Wilmore (all 2 blocks of it) and businesses hand out candy and host carnival-like games for children. It’s a safe place for kiddos to enjoy the fun of Halloween and avoid the creepy, scary, evil side of the holiday. We also love the fact that our boys get just enough candy that they are able to feel like they’ve hit the jackpot – but, not enough that we are eating it for days or weeks.

Brad was out of town this weekend (we missed you), spending some time with his brother(we love you Uncle Rob). Thankfully, my parents were here visiting with us and agreed to ~~endure the torture~~ go along with us on our trick-or-treating adventure. Sam and Luke ran around the house getting their costumes on with a level of excitement that was almost contagious. Caleb, however, was immune to this frenzy. He was not happy about wearing his pumpkin costume. Matthew was looking down at his frog costume and looking a little concerned. It’s not everyday that your mom makes you look like a frog. {grin}

We managed to get everyone dressed and ready to go – Matthew nearly ran to the van…such an eager little candy beggar.

My dad wedged himself between the two car seats in the back of our mini-van (he really loves his grandsons) and we were off. Sam and Luke were chanting “trick or treat…trick or treat…” and Caleb was crying. Imagine the chaos. I chose to remind myself that we were making memories! {grin}

I did manage one picture of all of my little men together…poor little Caleb is barely visible in the back of the stroller. I didn’t have the courage to try to get a better picture.

It was such a blessing to have extra adult coverage for the troops. My mom pushed the stroller through the crowd (she was pointing out two little dogs dressed as ballerinas to the boys).

Luke pulled my dad from candy station to candy station – in wide-eyed wonder of the costumes around him. Sam held my hand tightly and surveyed the crowd to see if he spotted any of his friends from school or creepy costumes that wanted to avoid. He held me captive to the point that I was unable to take his picture. {grin} He was thrilled to find some of his friends from school…and thought it was so funny that he didn’t recognize his friend who was wearing “fake hair.”

We collected our treats and scurried home to get the little boys in bed. Sam and Luke enjoyed passing out candy to the kids who visited our house. Luke said, “Batban (Batman) is coming to our house!” Sam wished them all a “Happy Halloween!” It was chaotic, busy, blessed and sweet. {grin}

Mr. Mayor

2009-10-30T14:40:00.001-05:00

We are appreciating Sam’s school more and more as the school year progresses. Today, instead of the traditional Halloween party with costumes and tons of sugar…they asked children to dress up as “community helpers.” They are just wrapping up a unit studying these people who make our communities run smoothly and keep people safe.

Sam chose to dress up as the mayor. The mayor of our small town happens to be an usher at our church each week, so Sam is familiar with him. He even considers him a friend. I love small town living. {grin}

So, here is my sweet boy…the mayor.

Wouldn’t you vote for this guy? {grin} Gotta love the forced smile…maybe he is a politician at heart.

A Camel, Really?

2009-10-27T13:57:00.001-05:00

One day a few weeks ago, I went to the grocery with all four of my boys. Usually, I try to go with only one or two of them…gives them a little “individual” attention and helps me keep my composure while I am shopping. {grin} The ultimate treat is to go alone after everyone is asleep. It’s just easier that way. However, there are times when we all simply have to go. Brad has been working tons of hours the past several weeks…working all day and then returning to his office after our little ones are tucked in for the night. The thought of my children being hungry seemed worse than going shopping with all of them, so off we went!

The boys are typically well behaved. Before we unbuckle seatbelts, I tell them exactly what we are going to do and how I expect them to behave. This leaves no questions or room for misunderstandings once we are inside the grocery store. The greatest challenge in shopping with all four boys is the logistics. Caleb and Matthew need to be in a cart…and I am not so good at managing two shopping carts and two boys on foot. So, when everyone is along for the shopping trip – we head to Kroger. The lovely folks at that store offer a cart with two seats for babies in some of their carts. The ultimate Johnson-mobile is the shopping cart with two baby seat up front and a brightly colored plastic car for Luke to sit in down below. I really need to take a picture of this sometime. It’s really too cute!

So, back to the day we went shopping a few weeks ago…

I had Caleb (the lightest weight twin by 5 lbs) in the carrier on my back, I was carrying Matthew in my right arm, holding Luke’s hand with my left arm – and Sam was holding Luke’s other hand. We were walking into the store to get to our shopping cart when a nice middle-aged man approached us and said to me, “ Wow! You look like a camel!” I think I must have looked shocked, because he immediately followed that comment with, “You have so many good helpers.” A camel. Really? Sam immediately looked at me and giggled. He has been laughing about it for days now.

A camel? Really? {grin}

Favorite Foto Friday…and Frustration.

2009-10-23T14:08:00.001-05:00

I had invested lots of time…okay, a little bit of time…in a post for yesterday. It has now been officially lost – somewhere in the deep recesses of my computer. I suppose that is one of the drawbacks to using LiveWriter. I will share more about that later…now, onto Favorite Foto Friday.

This is my sweet niece, Grace. Apparently, the Christmas of 2002 wasn’t too profitable…she ended up playing in the laundry basket at my parents house. She is now a lovely 8 year old girl…and just as beautiful. My boys love to spend time with her – we only wish we lived closer. We love you, Gracie!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-10-16T12:54:00.001-05:00

I love, love, love this picture of my sweet Matthew. He is wearing a “crown” that Sam made at school. It has a timeline of the life of a pumpkin on it. Matthew just thinks it is incredibly fun to wear. He delights in putting it on his head…giggling…then pulling it down to his neck…then giggling even harder. {grin} Such a sweet little guy.

The Giveaway Winner is….

2009-10-14T12:28:00.001-05:00

My very dear friend, Sarah! We have been friends for a long time…over ten years, I think. I am certain that it was long before anyone called us “mommy.” Sarah and her husband, Chris, are now the proud parents of three adorable little ones. You can learn more about Sarah and her adventures in motherhood and her heart for orphans/adoption advocacy by clicking here.

I used Random.org and the winning post was #3…

Chris and Sarah said...

I posted on my blog. =)

October 9, 2009 1:17 PM

Congratulations, Sarah! I can’t wait to see what you choose!

Monday, Monday…

2009-10-12T09:39:00.003-05:00

Another weekend has flown by at lightning speed…how does that happen? The other five days of the week often crawl by at a snails pace – but, the weekend is over in the blink of an eye. Maybe our time together as a family is so little and so precious that we try to cram in too much.
The boys are all coming down with a cold. The amount of sneezing and snotting going on around here is amazing. If it weren’t so gross, it would be impressive. I am constantly armed with a tissue…and my services are needed often. There are many things I will miss about having young children…wiping noses will not be one of them. Oh yeah, and reassembling sippy cups after they have been washed will also not be on my list of “things missed” from this season of motherhood.
However, the bonus of having little ones who are a bit under the weather is that there are many more snuggles and opportunities to smooch their soft, chubby cheeks. I am also reminded that a passing cold is annoying, but not such a big deal. When I get tired, frustrated, and annoyed with the things that go along with having ill little ones…I try to remind myself to be grateful (sometimes, it even works). Somewhere there is a mom who has a sick little one who doesn’t have access to good health care or a mom who has a little one who is chronically ill and would love to only have a nose to wipe instead of an entire daily routine to care for them.
So, I am learning to pray more – asking for God’s help. I desperately need Him to help me be patient when I am tired, to remain calm when it’s chaotic, and to remain grateful for the joy of mothering these little men of mine.

So, when life has you in a tight spot – call on the Lord & be thankful! {grin}

The Lord is near to all who call on Him,

to all who call on Him in truth.

Psalm 145:18

Photo Jewelry Give-Away

2009-10-09T11:19:00.001-05:00

My brother, Jeff, is a great guy and a mechanical genius. Since he was a young man, he has been tinkering with cars and he has even made a career of it. He owns an auto parts store...and he's doing well in spite of the economy. It's a blessing to have a brother with some auto-know-how...he saved my poor beater car in high school more than once. Most recently, he rescued me and my niece when we had a flat tire. As "handy" as my brother is...he is married to someone equally as "crafy."

My sister-in-law, Laura, is an amazing mom to my three nieces and my one nephew, she works full-time as a elementary school teacher, she is a zoo-keeper to the brood of pets at her house, and she also makes some amazing jewelry. She has an "etsy" site...full of jewelry really reflects her heart...what she values and treasures. Each piece she creates is unique, because it's crafted with a photo(s) you choose. She has made several pieces for me...and I always get compliments and folks asking how they can get something made for themselves. I literally get asked so often that I now carry her business cards in my wallet. {grin} It's amazing jewelry, the quality is great, it's unique, and it makes a great gift for someone special - she even has some things for men.

TELZ... Life TELZ a story, memories last a lifetime.

Grackilee's Shop Announcement

Fall is here!!! Time to get ready for Christmas. Look here for meaningful, long lasting gifts that will be treasured.

I will be adding some new items for the holiday season.

Welcome to my shop !!! Stop in for awhile and check out my fun, personalized, one of a kind jewelry and assessories.

I love to do custom work. I don't like to make all things the same over and over so some things pictured may be just a little different from the photo. I will be sure to let you know what may be just a little different. Maybe some different beads... Nothing major, and of course your ideas are most important.

I guarantee all of my work forever as long as I am around anyway. If you ever have problems, please let me know. I will fix it right up for you.

I have also done several pieces of memorial jewelry to remember lost loved ones and even pets.

Enjoy shopping and please let me know if you have any questions. You can also reach me at Lulee13136 [!at] aol.com.

Thanks a bunch, Laura

**You can win $30 in jewelry from Laura's Etsy Site!**

The more times you enter, the greater chance you have to win...here's how you do it.

visit Laura's Etsy site, choose something you'd like to win, then leave a comment on my blog telling me what you chose.
post about this give-away on your blog and you'll earn another entry.
leave a comment telling me how you found my blog and you'll receive another entry.

The winner will be randomly chosen on Wednesday, October 14th. Please remember to leave your e-mail address in your comment so I can contact you if you win. {grin}

A Great Give-Away

2009-10-08T23:29:00.002-05:00

Since only a handful of friends/family follow our blog...you have an excellent chance of winning an amazing prize. Stay tuned for more info...this is gonna be big! {grin}

Family Foto Fun...kind of.

2009-10-07T11:41:00.000-05:00

Taking family photos of the Johnson Tribe is a difficult task. Really, imagine getting four very busy, squirmy, independent little men to all stand/sit still and look in the same direction...difficult, at best. However, I just choose to laugh - and hope that the essence of our family at this time in our lives is captured in some lovely images that I will treasure forever. So, I don't mind photos of my little men squealing, running away, making silly faces, or even crying - afterall, that is who they are at this age.

So, a few weekends ago, my hubby and I loaded up the little men and headed for Keeneland, where we met our friend and fabulous photographer, Carissa Martin. The next few minutes were a flurry of people doing all sorts of entertaining things to get our boys to sit still and look at the camera. It was hysterical! The wind was blowing my hair everywhere. Caleb was slobbering - leaving large wet spots on his shirt. Luke was lovingly try to hold his baby brother - it was not received in the spirit it was intended. Sam was doing his best to follow directions in spite of not wanting to wear his "handsome" shirt. Brad and I could only laugh at the hilarity of it all. Well, on second thought....I am not so sure that Brad was laughing - but, he was making the best of it. {grin}

You can be sure that Carissa is indeed a professional, she was able to get a few good shots of the Johnson Tribe. These will be treasured almost as much as the memory of this photo shoot.

Baby Talk

2009-10-06T12:37:00.001-05:00

Well, I know that at 20 months old, the twins are hardly babies anymore. But, they are certainly my babies. They are chatting up a storm lately…so adorable. It’s really fun to see them begin to communicate with us. Aww…I love baby talk. {sigh}

both babies say:

all done (both still sign this while saying it)
hi
hot
uh oh
bye bye
Dada
Momma
cookie
Elmo
attempt to sing the “ABC song” – so cute
baby
more (Matthew still signs this when he says it)
juice
milk
AMEN - with great gusto! They both bow their heads and reach to hold hands (as does our entire family)while we pray before a meal.

Caleb:

down (said when actually requesting to be picked up)
Sam
cookie
outside
shoe (when we are getting ready to leave, I tell the boys we need to get our shoes on. They both run to their bedroom and sit in the rocking chair – waiting to have their shoes put on)
Gran (my mom)
Nee Nee (Brad’s mom)
brother

Matthew:

book
dog
Pa (my dad)
eat
silly
apple
Cal Cal (Caleb’s nickname)
ni ni (nighty night)
hat
sock

Sam at Six

2009-09-24T14:41:00.001-05:00

Sam is an easily excitable young boy...he gets really, really excited about special occasions. The night before a special occasion (holidays, special guests arriving at our house, placing his Scholastic book order at school, etc...), he often has trouble sleeping. He usually falls asleep without much trouble, it's staying asleep that he find difficult. He wakes up throughout the night...just hoping and praying that it will be time to get up. Such an eager little guy. {grin} His sixth birthday proved to be no exception. He was up at 2:30 am...let that sink in for just a moment...that's right...2:30am. He asked if it was his birthday yet. His daddy lovingly said, "No, it's not. Go back to bed." Poor Brad, he really is a loving daddy...just doesn't do so well when awakened from a deep sleep. {grin}
So, the festivities began early...officially at around 6:15 am or so. He enjoyed breakfast with his dad at the hotel on campus. It's very near our house, very yummy (Sam really enjoys the "waffle making station" and the "little boxes of sugar cereal"), and very inexpensive. They talked about all sorts of boy things and consumed massive amounts of sugar. Bonding time.
I was enjoying a cup of coffee when they arrived back at home. Sam asked if his voice sounded different now that he was 6. . . so cute. He told me he felt taller...and his arms felt longer.
I arranged for a babysitter to come for an hour so I could join Sam at school for lunch. I took 24 monkey cupcakes for his class to enjoy. Lunch is served "family style" at Sam's school. Each student is responsible for getting their own drink from the cooler and a tray for their food before they take a seat at the small table. Bowls of food are placed on the table...and the children serve themselves and then pass the bowl on to a friend. They are reminded to say, "Please" or "No, thank you." It was amazing. I sat on the end of the table...nestled between my sweet boy, Sam, and a little boy named Earl. Earl was quick to show me his Spiderman shirt...and to tell me that you shouldn't eat turtles. He told me that turtles had "stinky breath" and the smell would make you sick. Too funny! I can't begin to imagine all that a kindergarten teacher hears from her students...or what my own son is telling her! Sam's classmates were very excited that we'd brought "monkey cupcakes" to share with them in honor of Sam's special day. They gobbled them up and were left with nothing but chocolate-laden faces and cupcake liners. What a sweet payment for my labors in the kitchen the night before. {grin}

That night, we celebrated as a family. Yummy dinner, cherry cheesecake for dessert (complete with candles and singing), and then we gave him our gifts. He was delighted...and the other boys managed to be delighted for him in spite of wanting his gifts.

Sam at Six:

Loves Kindergarten.
Reads very well.
Loves his baby brothers and delights in making them laugh. Doesn't delight in them when they steal his toys or "mess up" his legos.
Has lost 2 teeth.
Is beginning to express opinions about what he wears. ugh.
Is obsessed with character t-shirts. I loathe character t-shirts. We're learning to compromise. {grin}
His school bus driver has told me repeatedly what a good boy he is. {sigh}
Is doing several chores each day and earning an allowance.
Loves to ride his bike.
His favorite color is red.
His favorite meal is his mom's spaghetti and meat balls or McDonald's cheeseburger Happy Meal.
Thinks his daddy is a superhero.
Hates to wear "handsome" shirts (any shirt with a collar).
Loves to play and wrestle with Luke...his best buddy.
Loves to read the story of Samuel being called by Eli...he told me that must be what he hears sometimes in the night.
His imagination is remarkable...creates his own little world when he plays alone in his room.
Wishes that he was able to see more of the movies his friends see. We have pretty strict rules about movies, tv shows, etc... He asked me why adults would make movies that are bad for kid's hearts and minds. {sweet boy, i don't know}
Has started showering instead of taking a bath.
Wears a size 2.5 shoe.
Wears a size 7 pants.
Wears a size 8 shirt.
Is adored by his parents.
Is growing in wisdom and stature. {grin}

We love you, sweet Sammy Boy! :)

Living at the Speed of ...well, Life

2009-09-19T21:21:00.004-05:00

I have been neglecting the blog lately, because I have not been neglecting my life! It seems like just when I think things are beginning to slow down a bit...the madness get even madder around here!
Just to recap the last couple of weeks:

Sam lost another tooth (bringing his total to 2).
Luke decided that napping isn't as much fun as it used to be. (sigh)
Caleb bit Matthew on the arm...it left a bruise and a very, very sad baby boy.
Matthew refuses to say, "Mama." Instead, he grins very sheepishly and says, "Dada" with great pride. Then he giggles.
Every year I am surprised at how much "busyness" comes with the start of the fall semester at the seminary. This year is no exception. Fall picnic for faculty, fall picnic for post-graduate students, retreat for faculty members (Brad will be away most of the weekend), and on and on. This year, Brad is teaching a new curriculum...even more prep required than normal.
Sam celebrated his 6th birthday - on 3 different occasions. Once with all of his grandparents and his Uncle Rob (Brad's brother) while they were visiting over Labor Day weekend. The second celebration came on his actual birthday - breakfast out with Daddy, lunch at school with Mommy, and then gifts from our family after dinner. The day after his birthday, a party for his friends at our house. It was fun to delight in our boy - but, I am so thankful it's over. {grin}
The washer died. It made loud, painful, horrible noises and then stopped working. At first, I was miffed. Then, I reminded myself that it was used when we purchased it 5 years ago for $100. Doing laundry for $20 annually doesn't sound so bad. {grin}
We bought a new washer/dryer...ugh. That was painful. I am looking forward to having a big machine to wash the many dirty clothes our family produces in...but, paying for it was not fun.
We got a new entertainment center. This is the first new piece of furniture in our house that didn't require assembly. I love it! It's durable, sturdy, and filled with storage opportunities! {thanks mom and dad - what a generous birthday, anniversary, Christmas gift}.
Brad passed his German Competency Exam (must be able to read and translate a theological article written in German) as part of the requirements for his PhD program. God has gifted him with an amazing mind! {grin} Praise the Lord - Brad is one step closer to being finished.

Caleb had another bout of "asthma-like" symptoms. He was breathing very rapidly and it was scary. The folks at the ER were very kind and treated him quickly...although, it was a very long night. Poor little fella was so tired and unable to sleep because of bright lights and unfamiliar noises. We are following up with a pulmonologist at the local Children's Hospital in October.
I got a bike for my birthday, my hubby baked me a cake, my big boys made me cards/pictures, enjoyed lunch with my hubby...felt so loved as I celebrated another year.
Matthew and Caleb were diagnosed with another ear infection. One more, and our pediatrician says we're having the conversation about tubes.

I know that I am leaving some things out...my feeble mind simply can't keep up! {grin} Life if busy, full of activity, full of noise, full of motion, and full of love. Even at the breakneck speed we're traveling at...there is plenty of time for hugs, kisses, and giggles. {sigh}

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-09-18T15:11:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, we were enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon at home. Well, okay…with four little boys around it’s never really a lazy afternoon.

Sam was playing in his room when he spied some superheroes out his window. We live in a cul de sac with 7 houses…there are 11 small children (ages 7 and under) who live in said houses…9 of these children are BOYS! It’s heaven on earth for our little men, although I am not sure how the little girls on the block feel about it. Anyway, I digress….

The point is you are bound to find all sorts of things going on around here. Your dad’s fishing boat could become a pirate ship, you could rocket off into space while bouncing on the trampoline, your bike could become a race car travelling at the speed of light…or you could become a superhero!

When Sam spotted his friends in costume, he just had to join in the fun. So, this foto of our neighborhood superheroes is a favorite of mine…because these are some of the sweetest days of my life –and I don’t want to forget them. {grin}

LiveJournal Tags: fav foto friday,sam,luke,neighbor boys,superheroes

"Dad, It's Not Working..."

2009-09-01T13:18:00.007-05:00

Our sweet firstborn son has lost his first tooth. We had been expecting the event for several weeks now...the tooth was so loose for so long, I thought he might not even notice when it fell out! One evening, as I was cooking dinner, he shouted from the living room, "MOM! MOM! I LOST MY TOOTH!" He was over the top excited...we were too.
Sam's permanent teeth had begun to come in behind his baby teeth. When we visited our dentist several weeks ago, she suggested if they weren't out by his birthday - we would need to make an appointment for her to "help" Sam along. {grin} His dad and I were motivated to get them out quickly to make room for his new teeth to come forward, to avoid a potentially traumatic dental appointment (we've had only positive experiences thus far), and to save a few hundred bucks by doing the work at home. {snicker} So, we offered a visit to Sam's favorite dining establishment, McDon*ld's, when he lost the first tooth. We came out money ahead, for sure!
As we were getting ready for bed, Sam told us he'd like to put his tooth under his pillow for the "tooth fairy." We've elected to tell our boys this sort of thing is a "game" some families play...but, there really is no tooth fairy flying around collecting the little gems. {grin} So, he decided that he wanted to "play" the game...mostly, I think he was looking for some cash!
He carefully placed his tooth in a small plastic bag and put it under this pillow. He drifted off to sleep in great anticipation. Fast forward to 3:30 AM...I hear little footsteps in the hall, then our bedroom door opened. I hear a small voice say, "Dad, it's not working. The tooth fairy isn't coming." Sweet boy. Brad drags himself out of bed, mumbles something about coins, and then hobbles to Sam's room to tuck him in bed again. When he came back to bed, he said, "I suck at being the tooth fairy." Sam received a quarter and his parents learned a good lesson...don't forget to put the money under the pillow before you go to sleep. The children are paying attention! {grin}

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-08-28T19:25:00.006-05:00

Please don't adjust your screen....that's Luke. He is wildly silly... loveable ...unpredictable ... funny...giggly...and adorable. He had just eaten his body weight in strawberries, leaving some evidence on his sweet face. This little boy can do some amazing things with his body: headstand, forward roll (since he was 11 months old), wink each eye independently, throw a ball with amazing accuracy, and cross his eyes. He thinks this is very funny. I think he looks pretty creepy, but I always giggle a little bit when I see him do this. What does that say about my character? {grin} My three year old, Luke. What a silly boy.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-08-22T22:19:00.004-05:00

My sweet little Sam was just 13 months old when this picture was taken. Quite frankly, he was the cutest little frog I'd ever seen. {grin} He is about to celebrate his 6th birthday and his baby brother will likely wear this costume this fall. Time has gone so quickly. I was thinking about all of the cliche's that folks tell you when you have your first baby. "Take lot's of pictures - you won't believe how quickly they change." "Before you know it, you'll be sending him off to college." They were so right. Slow down, sweet Sam...let me treasure these days when you are a little boy. I am so grateful for a heart full of memories...and so looking forward to all that God has in store for this sweet boy.

Mr. Johnson Goes to Kindergarten *updated w/ pics

2009-08-13T21:22:00.005-05:00

Today was the day, my firstborn was to enter the big world of formal education. I feel like I have been "eased" into this for a while now...buying school supplies, meeting the teacher at the open house, reading lots of books about kindergarten, and having endless conversations about the big day...but, today was a bit of a shock to me. Okay, okay...I realize all of those events were designed to make Sam feel more comfortable with the transition. I just thought they might have helped his parents, as well.

Our school system has not adopted full day kindergarten...so, Sam attends in the afternoon. Our kind neighbor, Miss Mary, came over to stay with the three littlest boys while Brad and I delivered Sam to school. We were all a little nervous about the big day...and talked about how it is completely normal to feel that way when you were doing something new. Brad was a typical daddy, videotaping every moment to have a permanent record of the big event. {I love that man!} Sam's teacher greeted him, asked him to put his backpack in his cubby, and then handed him a small tub of Pl*y-Doh to occupy him until she was ready to begin. We hung around for a few minutes and then we said our goodbyes. We tried to play it "cool" - like it was no big deal- hoping Sam would play along. {grin} I smooched his cheek, told him I would see him later and I was looking forward to hearing about his day, and then he put both arms around my neck and squeezed me tightly. I thought my heart would break and my eyes were burning to hold back tears. Brad was cool...however, I think if I hadn't suggested we leave...he would have stayed all day! Speaking of Brad, he is such a good daddy. He is constantly thinking of ways to nurture, protect, and comfort our little men. Today, he asked the bus driver if he could ride home on the bus with Sam. {grin - I really, really love that man} The bus driver said no.
I kept myself busy while Sam was away. The littlest ones were napping...well, sort of. Matthew has an ear infection and wasn't sleeping so well. As a matter of fact, he wasn't letting Caleb sleep either. So, my time was filled with caring for the twins. Probably a blessing, I didn't have time to watch the clock too closely. I just kept praying for Sam, his teacher, the classroom aides, and his classmates all afternoon. It's a frightening thing to leave your kiddo in a strangers care...but, as my emotions faded, I was reminded that God was still on the job and watching over Sam. Peace to my heart.

Brad came home from work in time to see Sam get off of the school bus. He looked hot and tired, but mostly happy. He came in, got a drink and then talked briefly about his day. Brad went back to work. While we watched television, Sam began to talk about how he had fun at school...but, he missed me. I told him that I missed him, too. I admitted that I even cried a little, and that I was certain that tomorrow would be a much better day. He said he didn't cry, but that his throat hurt because his tears were collecting there. I nearly burst into tears. I told him tomorrow would be a much better day - that he would have way more fun at school than at home with me. I am not certain who I was trying to convince, him or me. {grin} Sam said he had thought about quitting school, but decided to stay since the next day was "treasure box" day...he had his sights set on a little dog he'd seen in the box when we visited for open house. I pray tomorrow is better...for him and for me. {grin} I am working to create as much enthusiasm, excitement, and feeling of security as I know how.

Sam with his backpack (thank goodness he didn't think his preschool backpack was uncool - saved a few dollars), ready to go!

Sam with his teacher, Mrs. E.

Sam's seat at the table...he's looking a little uncertain here. We were just about to leave. {sniff}

How Did He Know?

2009-08-11T11:26:00.005-05:00

Last night, we went to the Open House at Sam's school. My dear friend watched the three little ones so Brad and I could give Sam our undivided attention. We all had a great time. We met Sam's teacher (he told her that he was sure they would be good friends because they liked the same books), we explored his classroom (he searched through some books and discovered the "treasure box"), we visited the lunchroom (the steam table is like a train with cars - too cute), and we even got to take a short ride on a school bus(huge fun). Sam left feeling very good about things - and super excited about school. I resisted the urge to throw myself into her arms, racked with tears, telling her how special my little boy is and that she should treat him with care - Sam has a tender heart. {grin}

So, this morning, the "big boys" were playing so well together that I got a little suspicious. {grin} They were role playing going to school. Luke made several trips to the kitchen, where I was preparing lunch, to ask for my help in loading his "packback" with cars and other toys. Sam came in to announce that he was going to school for "another great day of school with Mrs. Eppingham (note: her name is actually Mrs. Eppinghoff). {grin} I love that Sam is using this fun play to work out his anxieties about the first day of school. I wish I could find a form of creative play for my own anxieties. {gulp}

So, after Luke had his "packback" loaded to the gills...he announced he was leaving for school. I hugged him and told him that I hoped he had a great day! He looked at me and said, "Now you say "boo hoo hoo" mom." How did he know? {grin}

Front Page News

2009-08-08T15:02:00.004-05:00

Last week, our dear friends from Indiana came to visit us. Well, actually, Erin came to visit the college here in our tiny town and we squeezed in on their time here. {grin} Brad and I have a long history with this family and share tons of fun memories together. We love them! While Lori (Erin's mom) and Erin went to visit campus, her younger siblings stayed with our tribe. John (nearly 11) and Grace (9) helped to entertain our little men. It was fun to have them around...and I think our little ones made them very tired and very grateful that they don't have younger siblings!

After the college visit, we gathered up the kids and headed to the park for some fun. A reporter for the local newspaper arrived to gather some photos of kids enjoying the fleeting days of summer fun. After asking permission, he took several photos of the kids and chatted with us.

You can see the results here.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-07-24T07:01:00.002-05:00

It seems like such a long time ago that my little ones were actually this little. {sigh} Oh, I miss the sight of the two of them snoozing peacefully in their crib. They really enjoyed sleeping together, always ending up snuggled together with arms and legs intertwined. It was a bittersweet day when they moved to separate cribs...at about 8 months old. Caleb was disturbing Matthew's sleep too much, and it was time. Oddly enough, Matthew had a more difficult time with the transition. I miss having tiny babies in my house...but, I love who they are now. {grin}

Growing Up

2009-07-22T09:51:00.003-05:00

Luke is changing and maturing at an alarming rate. It's like he is on an accelerated path and I can hardly keep up. It seems like just a few months ago he was a toddler...and he is clearly a preschooler now. He hasn't mastered any new physical feats - it seems his latest growth spurt is an emotional and social one. He is fully potty-trained (naps and nighttime included). He is developing opinions about things that he previously didn't care about (favorite color, choice of fruit at lunch time, etc...). He is incredibly conversational on an emotional level, not simply requesting things or refusing things. For instance, he said this to me this morning, "Mommy, you're the best. Let me kiss you, okay Mom?" You can imagine how my heart turned to mush! That little guy is such a love bug!
Last night, Luke fell asleep without his pacifier for the first time in nearly 3 years. This is a very big deal! Luke had such tummy issues as a tiny baby that his pacifier was a great source of comfort to him...and we gave it to him liberally. As a toddler, it was a bedtime comfort to him...and we didn't mind. However, as a three year old...it was time for the paci to go. We have had lots of conversations about how he is a big boy now and he doesn't need his paci anymore. He is quick to point out that our little babies use a paci because they are babies. So, like his older brother before him, we offered him a bribe...oh, I mean a reward for giving up his beloved pacifier.
Last night, it took Luke a bit longer than usual to fall asleep. There was no drama and no tears. He woke this morning with great excitement about his success and huge joy in anticipation of his shopping trip to buy his special toy today. My baby boy is growing up...sniff, sniff. I am so thankful for this little bundle of fun, enthusiam, joy, and boy who is becoming a little boy. What a joy to watch the changes taking place in him. Congratulations, Lukey-boy!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-07-17T13:41:00.003-05:00

While we were in Indiana recently, we visited the Indianapolis Children's Museum. It's the perfect place for a family of busy little boys like ours. Lot's of things to see, do, touch, and experience...virtually nothing is "off limits" to them. The featured exhibit was "Star Wars: The Clone Wars." The walls were filled with large images of many of the characters. Sam (5) has never seen any of the Star War's movies, but many of his little buddies have. He knows a lot about the characters from conversations with his Dad. He was ecstatic to see all of these "cool characters" on the wall. He sweetly asked for his picture to be taken with every one of them! This is my sweet Sam with Anakin Skywalker...two of the "good guys."

Freeze Frame - July 2009

2009-07-15T11:29:00.005-05:00

Some days I just want to freeze time for a bit. You know, just capture the essence of who my kids are at this point and the sweetness of this time in our lives. So, I decided that freezing time isn't possible (anyway, who am I kidding? I don't want to be changing diapers, buckling seat belts, and wiping bottoms forever {grin}), I should record these things so I they will be mine forever.

Sam:

Is excited for Kindergarten, but can't hardly bear the thought of being away from me for that long each day.
Is obsessed with McDonald's Happy Meal toys. I don't understand it. We don't eat there very often, but it's always on his little mind.
Loves his little brothers. He can often be found snuggling with Matthew or reading books with Caleb. Luke is his best friend, but they have trouble sharing at times. Sam told me that he always wants the toy Luke is playing with because, "it wooks more interesting when Wuke has it."
We chat with Brad (on speakerphone so everyone can participate) everyday while we're eating lunch. Today, Sam announced, "Dad, I know what I want to be when I grow up." long pause for Brad to ask what his career choice was...followed by "I want to be a McDonalds worker. What do you want to be when you grow up, Dad?"

Brad shared snippets of the musical, "Singin' in the Rain." Sam is a HUGE fan! He loves to sing & dance to "Make 'Em Laugh" and "Moses Supposes" - quite an interesting song choice for a 5 year old.
Sam calls our baby monitor a "ther monitor" (as in thermometer).

Luke:

Loves to kiss me...over and over and over again. This is mostly incredibly endearing and makes me feel like a million dollars. However, it seems Luke always has a slobbery face or a runny nose. ick!
Knows his colors and shapes. He likes to point them out to me everywhere we go. You can't begin to imagine the number of colors and shapes you can encounter at the grocery store.
Doesn't like change. He recently destroyed another pair of shoes, and his daddy made a repair (more on this later) that left them not fit for public appearances. So, Luke and I went shoe shopping on a recent "date" - just the two of us. He was not interested in getting new shoes and made his wishes known...over and over again. "No, not new shoes."
Luke loves to make up "knock knock" jokes..with no punchline. We love him, so we laugh uncontrollably. HE grins from ear to ear and cackles with laughter.
Luke loves to play outside. He especially loves to play on our new swing set. Swinging makes him giggly and happy.
Instead of upside down, Luke says, "ups down"

Matthew:

Loves to snuggle with me when he wakes up. He greets me with outstretched arms from his crib, and melt into my body when I pick him up. He pats my arm gently and it melts my heart.
He is very mellow and laid back...99% of the time. When he has simply had enough (someone takes something from him, won't allow him to do what he wants, etc...) he gets wide-eyed and throws something. It's hard to keep my composure long enough to correct him.
Loves to eat blueberries.
Is beginning to shake his head up and down to answer "yes" to my questions. Hasn't mastered "no" yet.
He made up a game that he plays with his daddy. When Brad is sitting on the couch, Matthew sneaks around behind the couch and pulls gently on Brad's hair. He waits for his daddy to say, "Who pulled my hair?" Then Matthew walks around to the front of the couch and squeals and giggles when Brad says, "It was Matthew!"

Caleb:

Is a tiny little guy (7th percentile in weight) and a scrapper, too. He is prone to bite his brothers (nearly always Matthew) when he gets angry. He is the first "biter" we've had...and we hope it's a behavior that stops quickly. We're working hard to break the habit.
Makes silly faces. He closes his eyes and scrunches his nose...and then grins with delight. He is especially happy when performing for an audience.
Is talking like crazy, knows lots of word/phrases. My favorite is "Hi, brother!"
Caleb's greatest love is dancing and singing. He loves to sing along to Sesam* Stre*t's, "Sing a Song." Can often be heard singing "la, la, la, la, la." throughout our house. He also likes to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle" and the "Itsy Bitsy Spider" - but, his favorite is "Jesus Loves Me." He sings the last syllable of every line with great gusto!
He loves to be upside down.

It Was a Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

2009-07-08T21:37:00.008-05:00

The blog title & the above photo say it all - yesterday was rough. I even considered moving to Australia, just like the children's book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Bullet points may be helpful...it was intense (at least from the mom's perspective). {grin}

All four boys started sneezing, running fevers, and spewing snot in mass quantities late Tuesday afternoon. The babies are whining like mad and the big boys are grouchy.
Sam had mild "night terrors" Wednesday night...calling out, rolling around in his bed - but, still sound asleep. He woke Luke up more than once. Neither of them got good sleep (their mom didn't either).
After lunch, Sam & Luke were playing in the living room. Luke pushed Sam and it hurt his feelings. He was laying on the couch trying to explain to Luke that he didn't like to be pushed...when, Matthew bonked him on the head with a plastic mug he had stolen from the kitchen table. A large, purple, painful looking goose-egg appeared on Sam's forehead. He was obviously in pain, tired, and frustrated. The tears flowed. I scooped him up and sympathized with him...and then a crying Caleb began to crawl up on Sam. Caleb got frustrated that his climb wasn't easy - and he pinched Sam. Sam howled. He was just frustrated beyond words. Caleb and Sam were crying...Luke & Matthew were watching in horror. {grin}
I told Sam how sorry I was and that Caleb didn't intend to hurt him. It was as if a flood of emotion broke in his heart...he began to cry, saying, "I just want you to hold me. Pay attention to me, not a baby." His words pierced my heart...and I fought to hold back my own tears. Sam clung to my neck so tightly as his heart broke. ugh. It was bad. I quickly prayed and then began to tell Sam all of the reasons I love him. I told him that his Daddy & I do lot's of things to show him how special he is: special "dates" with only him, breakfast with daddy each morning before anyone else is up (they are both early risers), our special "school time" when the 3 little ones are napping, reading books and praying together each night, etc...
Caleb continued to cry while I was comforting Sam. Sometimes I just wish I had more arms for holding little ones or could clone myself for just a bit (I mean seriously, two of me would be a bit much) {grin}.
All of this happened as I was trying to get the twins ready to leave for an appointment with our pediatrician (18 month old well visit). It was chaos and I was overwhelmed.
Poor Brad came home from work to stay with the big boys (he is such a good man) and found us all in a mess! I finally peeled Sam off of my body and managed to get the little men loaded into the van. I began to cry as I pulled out of our driveway. Nasty thoughts like, "You will never be able to meet their needs. There isn't enough of you to go around. Why did you have all of these children if you can't care for them?" began to fill my mind. I sobbed...and then, I prayed. As I prayed, I was reminded that Satan is a liar - and he was whispering lies in my ear about my mothering. Each boy has been a gift from God to us..and I am the God-chosen mother to each of them. I called my friend, Granola Mom , and left an unintelligible message on her answering machine. I babbled something about praying for me and being under spiritual attack. What a great message to receive! {grin} I chatted with my dear friend, Deb, and she reminded me of God's truth about who I am and how He loves me. Deb had the wisdom to tell me that Sam was just expressing the cry of everyone's heart - notice me, pay attention to me, love on me. God soothed my heart and I managed to pull myself together before I arrived at the pediatrician's office.
While waiting for the doctor to arrive in the exam room, the nurse was asking a few questions about Caleb & Matthew. As I answered, I undressed Caleb and then let him toddle around the room. He walked across the small room to look out the window. He bent down to look at something on the floor, and hit his eye on the edge of the window sill. He burst into tears and I scooped him up. The nurse noticed he was bleeding. She went to get the doctor...and 20 minutes later, our doctor arrived. We've always been pleased with the care we've received - but, I thought this was a bit long to wait under the circumstances.
After cleaning the wound, she determined that stitches weren't necessary. She applied 6 steri-strips (looks like small pieces of tape to hold the wound closed). The cut is deep but very small.
Sweet little Matthew sat silently in the stroller while the doctor and I tended to Caleb. Not a peep out of him the entire time. I kept looking at him and giving him a reassuring smile. He just grinned in return and waved to me. {melt my heart}
Matthew was examined and she found he had a double ear infection. So, no immunizations for them since they were both feverish and feeling badly.
Aside from the eye gash and ear infection, both boys are healthy and growing along just fine.
We came home to find that Sam was much happier after a two hour nap (he gave up napping nearly 18 months ago).

I am often asked, "How do you do it?" I hear people say, " I don't know how you do it. I could not do what you do." The truth of the matter is...we can't do it. I am not gonna lie, there are times when I think I am going to lose it (my mind, that is). Raising our four little men ages five and under is a challenge at times. I am learning that we simply can't do it alone. This may not be such revelatory news to most, but I need to be reminded from time to time. I am a get'r done kind of gal...just buck up and do it. But, we can't do it alone by God's design...we aren't intended to live alone, do it alone, or be without a community. God has designed us to be in relationship with Him, rely on Him, use His strength rather than our own, and to trust Him to do what He says He will do. It was a rough day, but God is still so good.

"The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped."
Psalm 28:7

Our Town

2009-07-08T11:36:00.007-05:00

Not the musical, but the town The Johnson Tribe calls home - Wilmore, Kentucky. Our town is small...very small. There is a sign on the edge of town that boasts over 9,000 residents. I suppose that would be true when school is in session. Our tiny town is home to a Christian college and a Seminary (different institutions on opposite sides of the main street through town). You will find 2 stoplights, 3 restaurants, 1 Dollar Gen*ral Store, a video store/laundromat, a few parks, and one small grocery store owned and operated by one very kind man, Mr. Fitch. Since the town in densely populated with Christians, there is a church on nearly every corner. The other situation this creates is a strange one...the number of children with Biblical names in our tiny town is unbelievable. The playground becomes a Biblical geneology study as you listen to mom's directing their children, "Isaiah, get down." "Rebekah, come here please." "Gideon, it's time to go."

It's a unique little place...not perfect, but very close. Brad is a big fan of The Andy Griffith Show (he is a hard-core Black and White episode fan...none of that sissy color tv for him), he likes to think of Wilmore as his personal Mayberry. The town has had the same mayor for over 30 years, he and his brother serve as ushers at our church each week. This tiny little town is also culturally diverse...people from all over the world come to study here. We have learned so much about how wide and deep the Kingdom of God truly is - all over the globe. We've had God-loving people from so many different cultures in our home...and been blessed. We love living here and raising our young sons here is a blessing.

One of my favorite things about living here is The Fourth of July Celebration. It begins with a parade through town. This is unlike any other parade I've ever attended...it's charming and endearing. You won't find a marching band - but, you might find a kids from the daycare throwing candy, the local swim club squirting the audience as they walk the parade route, every truck that the volunteer firefighters have parading through town, people walking with their pets, and even a synchronized lawnmower group performs. A local family even decorated an old car and participated in the parade! It is an awesome experience! The video below will give you a taste of our "small town life." Be sure to notice the massive amounts of candy that are being thrown to my children, the fact that Luke is wearing his bike helmet (for the 3rd day in a row -only taking it off to bathe and sleep), and the synchronized lawn mower group. LOVE IT!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-07-03T09:15:00.003-05:00

This isn't exactly a favorite foto, but a favorite video for Friday. I am no wizard at Blogger videos, so I couldn't get the image to rotate - sorry that you have to tilt your head and risk a strained neck in order to enjoy this little nugget of entertainment. {grin} In my very humble opinion, it's completely worth the effort! This video was captured at Caleb and Matthew's first birthday party...we had a house full of family and friends, hence the conversation going on in the background. Matthew was making the most of his very first experience with a sugary cake - almost overwhelmed the poor little guy. Near the end of the video, you'll see that he is either slipping into a sugar-induced coma or looking for more efficient ways to cram cake into his mouth. {grin} He is simply adorable...and this video makes me smile.

Have you heard this book?

2009-07-02T11:39:00.003-05:00

I am a lover of books...but, don't have much time for reading these days. Well, I actually do have time for reading daily - usually, it's something from the Children's Section of our local library and read to an audience of 4 little men. {grin}
Because I am a lover of books, I often get myself into a "pickle" with my reading. I have several books going at once and I want to read them all - it's overwhelming. For instance, I am currently reading 5 books: one is fiction, another is a parenting book, one is a book on quilting, there's a discipleship book, and another is a biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. About a month ago, an old friend told me I HAD to read, "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan. I added it to my wish list and made plans to ask for it for my birthday this fall. Imagine my joy this morning when I discovered that an audio recording of this book is available for FREE at ChristianAudio.com. The book is now waiting for me on my Ip*d...I can't wait to listen to it as I walk tonight. God is so good! So, have you heard this book?

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-06-19T09:08:00.004-05:00

My sweet Lukey-boy diligently coloring at the kitchen table. He was choosing each color with great care from the big box of 64 colors. I was watching him ever so closely...they weren't washables and he has a history of graffiti. (grin)

Random Thoughts

2009-06-17T21:23:00.006-05:00

I just finished cleaning the kitchen...it's late and I'm tired, but the music on my Ipod helped me to find some "joy" in my job tonight. While I was cleaning, my mind was full of very random thoughts. Among the thoughts was, "I should write this stuff down. Some day I'll look back on this season of my life, and I will have forgotten how sweet it was and how God was working in my life."
So, here it is:

Sam (5) has a very good friend just two doors down from our house. They play together several times a week - at our house or his. Joshua and Sam ride bikes in our cul de sac nearly every night after dinner. They do their best to avoid hitting Luke - who has no appreciation for the "rules of the road." {grin} Joshua and Sam have so much in common: they are both 5 (S was born just 3 days before J), they are both gentle and tender-hearted boys, they are both easily intimidated by aggressive children, they both enjoy super heroes and Star Wars (although neither of them has seen the movie). When Sam returned from a play date at Joshua's a few weeks ago, I asked what they had played. Sam said, "We played Joseph." I wracked my brain trying to think of what this meant - a new Star Wars guy? I pressed Sam for more information and he replied with, "Mom, like Jesus being born...his mom and dad." These boys are so blessed to have one another - and we are so blessed to have friends like the Chen family to walk alongside as we each work to honor God in raising our sons to be men of God.
I never thought that getting older would be a blessing, but it is. I am really growing in confidence in the Lord and who I am in Him. For example, I am more willing to just simply obey - even when I don't understand. It isn't always easy...but, I am learning to do it without questioning. Mind you, it's in small ways...but, I am learning. For example, I was shopping for groceries very late one night last week...and I dreaded it. It seems that the store is full of grumpy parents and very tired children who should be in bed...instead, they are crying and getting reprimanded by their parents. It makes me crazy! So, I prayed on my way to the store that I would have grace for the task...and that there would be no angry parents shouting at their children. Sure enough, I passed a dad and his three young children in the frozen food section. They were talking and laughing, so sweet. The dad pulled his littlest boy close and hugged him tight and told him he was so glad to be his daddy. I nearly cried...but, instead I smiled. Our paths crossed several more times as we each made our way up and down the aisles. At one point, I overheard the little girl ask if they had enough money to buy Che*t-os. The dad did some quick calculations in his head, and excitedly answered "Yes, we do!" She grinned from ear to ear. As I was leaving, I passed them in the "arcade" area near the exit. They were laughing and enjoying the driving game together. I walked through the exit and then immediately knew that I was to go back and give them a few more dollars to play games with. I had a short conversation with God in my mind, "Are you serious? I don't even know them? I am really a shy person..." I knew God would win...so, I looked into my wallet and found a 20 dollar bill, and three 1 dollar bills. This was a miracle in itself - I rarely carry more than a few dollars in cash. So, I went back in...sheepishly approached them and told the dad that he had blessed me. I told him that I loved watching him really enjoy his children...his little girl grinned at me and said (in a thick southern accent), "My daddy is the best!" I handed him 3 dollars (thinking my hubby wouldn't be happy about me giving a stranger 20 dollars for games) and told him to enjoy a few more games on me. As I walked away, I heard him say, "Yippee, 12 more games!" I still can't believe that God asked me to do that - but, I am so thankful that I did. I told Brad about this...he said, "Why didn't you give him the twenty?" I love that man!
My heart is breaking for those who have had a bad experience with the church...and been hurt deeply as a result. Not sure what to do about it just yet...but, I feel like God is working.
I stink at being consistent in disciplining my children. ugh. Sometimes, I just get tired or lazy.
I am really more rebellious than I would like to be. For example, when people ask if we are finished "growing" our family (always asked with a twisted face that implies we'd be foolish to have more children)...I secretly long to answer with something like, "actually, I am expecting" or "we are adopting." I know that our family is large by some standards, but it's all relative (pardon the pun {snort})...many families are much larger than ours. Usually, I smile and say how blessed we are...and that we're not certain what God has in mind for our family.
I love being a mom of boys.
I don't have anxiety about Sam beginning Kindergarten this fall. He is a momma's boy and I know he'll struggle initially. However, he is so ready to go - academically and socially. It's going to be a huge adjustment for all of us. I think I am really going to miss having him around in the afternoon.
Matthew is sick with a virus of some sort and running a really high fever...I know it's twisted, but I have really enjoyed some extra snuggles with him today! The twins are on the move constantly these days, so snuggles are more difficult to come by.
Caleb is obsessed with sitting on the couch. The only problem is that he has no idea how to get down...or that the fall could be painful. It is a source of anxiety.
Matthew is a climber, for sure. He scaled the kitchen chair and onto the table in a matter of seconds while Brad was filling his sippy-cup with milk. Can't even imagine what this will look like in a few weeks. ugh. The joys of boys!
Luke has worn through another pair of shoes in just 4 short weeks. He has this little "green man" riding toy that he loves dearly...he zooms up and down the driveway and he uses his feet to brake. I bought another pair of "durable looking" shoes. We'll see how long they last.
My husband is an entrepreneur at heart. He always has something brewing in his mind. It's sometimes a source of stress for me...I value stability! (grin) However, God is teaching me to truly love my hottie boy for who he is...just as God intended him to be. So, Brad is teaching me through his ventures into gardening, composting, rain water collecting, fish guiding, etc... and I am learning to enjoy the ride. {grin}
I love that God still uses music to stir my heart and make my eyes leak. It makes me wish I could sing well...or at least on key. I love that He loves my praise anyway! What a good God!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-06-12T10:02:00.004-05:00

I love this picture because it really captures who Brad is as a "daddy" to my little men. He was putting the "big boys" to bed...this is a real treat, for sure. The big boys often ask Daddy to put them to bed...which is a blessing to this tired mom.
Our bedtime routine involves reading one "fun" story (apparently this night's pick was "The Magic School Bus") and then doing our devotional book, "Step into the Bible." We love this book...written just for children, it has great questions after each Bible story. These questions are age-appropriate and spark great conversation for our family. Sam and Luke really enjoy this special time, we even wrote a special "Step into the Bible" song that we sing...a jazzy little number that we sing when I get the book down from the shelf each night. After filling our hearts and minds with God's word, we pray together before we turn out the light...and hopefully fall fast asleep quickly! I am so blessed to have a husband who delights in his children and his wife!

Missing Miss Phyllis

2009-05-28T10:40:00.006-05:00

I remember the day all too well...exhausted from lack of sleep, yet deliriously happy with the two new little men in my life. Brad and I determined that we were simply overwhelmed and we needed help. This was not an easy conclusion for us to arrive at. You see, we are proud people from the Midwest - when times get tough, you buck up and get it done. However, the reality of 4 little boys who were 4 and under and a husband who was a student, a full-time employee, and also had a part-time job on the weekend was just too much. We were crying, "Uncle!" God was peeling away another layer in the "self-sufficiency" costume we were wearing...and teaching us once again what it means to live in "community" with other believers. So, we finally gave in and asked for help. We talked and prayed...and then prayed some more...and then posted an e-mail on the seminary's website to hire someone to help us.

Only two people responded to our "want ad" - and I was honestly a little disappointed. I really thought we needed to have a few more options...ha! God knows just what I need and I am so thankful that He doesn't take my opinion into consideration when caring for me. I don't know what I need as well as He does! :) Turns out that we only had one option (the other person was looking for more hours per week)...the God-chosen option for our family. Brad and I invited Phyllis to our home for a conversation...to learn some more about her and to let her see our family "in action" so she could learn some more about us! She came, she saw, and we were shocked when she agreed to take the job! She was exactly who we prayed for...a wise woman who was older than us and had more parenting experience than us, a woman filled with the "joy" of the Lord, and a woman who was "at home" in our madness - nearly impossible to "ruffle her feathers." {grin} God knew just what we needed...and He provided.

The twins were just a few months old, Luke was a baby himself having just turned 2, and Sam was an eager-to-learn 4 year old. It was a madhouse. We were feeding and changing Caleb and Matthew around the clock and getting very little sleep...and trying to keep up with Sam and Luke during the day. Enter Phyllis....she never laughed when I answered the door in my pajama's and my hair uncombed. I loved her immediately. {grin} Over the next year, she would change many diapers, clean my kitchen more times than I can count, love my kids, play CandyLand until Sam didn't want to play anymore, encourage me in my mothering, share God's promises just when I needed it most, pick up toys, encourage me to take a nap, send me out the door to shop for groceries alone while she cared for all 4 of my kids. Phyllis became our "breath of fresh air" during those early months of having 4 kids ages 4 and under. When she arrived - we all sort of breathed a little easier. She was only at our house a few hours a week, but it was just enough to make everything seem better. {grin}

Miss Phyllis graduated with her Masters in Pastoral Counseling a few weeks ago and move back to her home and her family in Georgia. We all knew the day was coming...but, just didn't have the courage to face it. I cried like a baby...you know, the ugly cry where your face gets all twisted up and you have to wipe your nose a lot. I think I was so emotional because I was going to miss my friend...but, even moreso because I was so overwhelmed at God's goodness to me. He saw my need...and sent a gentle, loving friend to help me out. Miss Phyllis will forever have a special place in my heart.

What a whirlwind of a week!

2009-05-25T21:14:00.009-05:00

My husband, Brad, was away for a few days last week. Off to enjoy a well-deserved "mancation" with some of his dear friends from our home church in Indiana. These men love the Lord, love their families, love each other, and love to fish for SHARKS! That's right, they actually search out these large sea creatures with many teeth to chomp them with...I just don't get it. I don't think this kind of thrill-seeking is for a woman to understand, no matter how many times I read the book "Wild at Heart." {grin} Nonetheless, I am grateful that God has provided faithful men to encourage, challenge, and care for my husband..in a real "manly" way, of course. {bigger grin}

So, while Brad was away, my parents came to stay (what a fun little rhyme). My dad is retired, but my mom still works a demanding full-time (and then some) job. I love that my mom considers coming to my rowdy house the best way to use her vacation time. We accomplished so much during their ten day stay.

We painted the front/back doors RED (posh red, to be exact), we planted some fun flowers in the pots on our front porch, my mom bought me a gorgeous hanging basket full of beautiful flowers to hang out front as well. I even bought a new welcome mat...our porch looks really inviting now.
We planted day lilies along the fence row in our back yard...they are going to be beautiful as the mature.
We washed the curtains in the kitchen, living room, and the boys rooms. We also washed the windows. It felt so good to get this done!
We switched out the last of the winter clothes in exchange for some fun summer clothes. Matthew looked so cute in his little camo shorts!
We went shopping for groceries, bought a blow-up pool for the boys, searched a neighborhood garage sale for bunk beds for Sam & Luke, and my mom even bought me a new pair of sandals! {grin}
My Dad travelled nearly 40 minutes one way to look at some bunk beds that we found on Craigslist. We had to go to the owner's barn several miles away in a remote area, I was so glad that my dad was with me. We ended up not buying them, they were in terrible condition. My dad didn't even complain. {grin}
We took the boys on a picnic at the park. It was such a blessing to be able to play with them and not be stressed out. It is anxiety-producing to try to watch all four of them and keep them safe in an environment like that. We had a great time...lots of giggling, running, swinging, and sliding.
We found an answer to prayer, at our church, of all places. {grin} More on this later. It truly deserves a post of it's own.
I bought a Bissel "Little Green Machine" and used it to clean our couch, love seat, and ottoman with my dad's help. I felt so good about this investment. The cost of the cleaner was less than one professional cleaning, and I will use it often. You can't even imagine how dirty it was and how lovely it looked afterward!

My parents generously agreed to watch all four of the boys while I spent the day with my dear friend, Jodie. She is celebrating her 40th birthday this week, and her dear husband planned a very special day for her. I was her "host" as I drove her to shop for a dress & jewelry, took her out to lunch, enjoyed a "spa afternoon" with her - complete with a one hour massage and manicure. I had such a good time watching her get a haircut and style afterward - she looked amazing! Then, I delivered her to her home to her husband and took her 2 sweet girls home with me. Jodie and her sweet hubby went out to dinner at an amazing restaurant. Jodie is a really giving, selfless person...so, it was so fun to see her cared for and pampered. I was blessed to see her overwhelmed by her husband's extravagant love for her.

It was so nice to have my mom and dad here while Brad was away. I really enjoy their company and the truly helped to lighten the load in Brad's absence. It was a great week of memories made and relationships deepened. Today, we were all really sad after they left. I guess that is a good thing, right? {grin} Here are a few photos from our Memorial Day celebration.

Matthew really enjoyed the frog-shaped inflatable pool. He was so eager to get into the water, he wouldn't wait to take off his shirt! Matthew would have slept in the pool, had we allowed him. He was not happy about getting out.

Caleb feel in while waiting to get into the bathtub last week...earning him his second black eye. Poor little guy hardly complained at all. Hopefully, it looks worse than it hurt.
He thoroughly enjoyed his first Popsicle.

Brad blew bubbles for the boys...Sam and Luke never seem to grow tired of chasing them and popping them. Cheap entertainment for our entire tribe! Don't you love sweet tummies spilling over the waistband of their little swimming trunks? Too cute!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-05-15T12:57:00.003-05:00

Sweet baby Caleb just a few days before his first birthday. This picture was taken the day of his first haircut...just after he'd had a bath. I love these pajamas he is wearing...and I love this baby boy. {grin}

Playing "Catch-Up"...not to be confused with "Ketchup"

2009-05-14T15:15:00.012-05:00

So much has been happening around the Johnson house these past few weeks...and the activity has left little time to blog about it all.

Matthew has been channeling his "inner rock star" the past few weeks - wearing the Elmo sunglasses whenever he finds them. You'll notice his slobber-soaked shirt ...evidence of the teething happening in our house for both Matthew and Caleb. It has been a little messy and sometimes painful. Praise God, the teeth finally broke through a couple of days ago.

There have also been a few messes to clean up around the house. I returned home from the grocery store ( I had the left the many little men in the care of our good friend, Miss Phyllis - more on this precious saint in another post) with a refreshed heart and a few bags full of food. The boys were helping me put things away (well, actually rummaging through the bags to find something yummy), and Matthew's curiosity got the best of him. He opened a 16 oz. box of spaghetti - notice he still has the box in his hand in the photo. You can see that Sam and Luke are mortified by this mess - they look shocked! Matthew and Caleb had a grand time picking it up and distributing it all over the kitchen floor. It's such a good thing that God made them adorable. {grin}

We've been enjoying the warmer weather. Luke especially enjoys creating roads for his cars to travel on in the sand table on our deck...his little brothers just enjoy eating the sand. It's nearly impossible for me to get all four little men out to play by myself. It is simply not safe - the three littlest ones go running in opposite directions. It has been a humbling thing to realize that I can't do what seems a most natural "mom thing" to do. Sam, Luke, and I are able to sneak out from time to time while the twins are down for a morning nap. We normally have to wait until Brad comes home to go out to play for any length of time. However, we're making the most of our time outside - riding bikes, playing basketball, running around, creating masterpieces with sidewalk chalk, petting the neighbor's dog, and with the boys on our cul de sac. I am praying madly for a fenced in yard...and a swing set will be added in just a few weeks. We are so excited!

Brad and I have always been intentional about creating Spiritual Community wherever we've lived - really "living life" with a the people who live near us. Being part of a seminary community has really provided rich blessings for our family in this regard. We've had people from nearly every tribe and nation in our home over the past few years - students, professors, visiting faculty members, international students, etc... Last week, we invited Brad's professor who commutes to campus weekly and another friend (see photo above) over for dinner. The man in the picture above was at Asbury for a sabbatical from his normal ministry duties. Keith and his wife have been called to minister to the poor in rural Ohio. This type of ministry is all-consuming...and I think he is so wise to take time out to reflect, pray, study, listen for God's voice and direction, and renew his heart. Our friend brought his Kermit the frog puppet along to entertain our kids. The boys all loved it! Sam ran to get our Elmo puppet so he could join in the puppet conversation. It was entertaining, for sure! I am sometimes frustrated by this long educational journey we have been on...but, it also brings some amazing blessings. I am so grateful that my boys see Godly people who are answering God's call on their lives in very real ways.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-05-08T12:03:00.003-05:00

I just uploaded several pictures from my digital camera...604 of them, to be exact! I have mentioned it on my blog before, I can't seem to find time to upload photos. It seems to be at the very bottom of my very long to-do list. So, I finally got around to it. Choosing a picture for "Favorite Foto Friday" this week was a bit of a challenge - so many to choose from. {grin}

After perusing the recently added photos, I decided that this little gem warmed my heart the most. It's not an especially attractive photo - the lighting isn't great and the angle of Sam's neck is a little odd. However, I think it captures the sweet relationship that Sam shares with his littlest brothers. Sam loves, loves, loves his little baby brothers! He loves to tickle them, chase them, help them read books, to carry them (although his mom thinks this is a bad idea and discourages it greatly!), he loves for them to sit on his lap, he loves to be the first to go into their room when he hears them waking, and he loves to sing to them. He really is a terrific big brother...I have to wonder if all of this "baby loving" isn't going to make him a better daddy one day.

Favorite Foto Friday...on Monday!

2009-05-04T22:56:00.003-05:00

No need to adjust your computer screen, Luke really is upside down in this photo. At the tender age of three, he can do a headstand...with pretty good form, in my opinion. It was a little shocking when he first began "practicing" this skill in his crib after he awakened from his afternoon nap. In no time, he had perfected this move - and now he can be found on his head all over the place. Luke even did a headstand for our pediatrician at his 3 year old well-check. The pediatrician suggested we get Luke involved in a "high energy organized sport." {grin} He really is amazing little boy...very physically advanced. At one year old, he could do a somersault. At two, he could wink each eye independently. Now, at three he has mastered the headstand. Who knows what year four will bring?

My Husband is a Fine Fellow

2009-04-21T21:58:00.005-05:00

It's no secret to all that know him, my hottie boy husband is one great guy. He is funny, hard-working, humble, loving, smart, witty, goofy, and manly. {grin} He is a Jesus-loving, wife-dating, diaper-changing, oil-changing, tire-rotating, little-boy-chasing, tummy tickling, recycling, garden composting, God-seeking kind of guy. I love that I love him more today than I did on that lovely September day in 1997. I remember vividly waiting for my dad to walk me down the aisle to begin my life as Brad's wife...and being certain that I would never be able to love him more deeply than I did at that moment. I couldn't conceive that my heart would be able to hold it. Many years, struggles, triumphs, sleepless nights, sick babies, times spent earnestly seeking God's will for our lives, belly laughs, and walking through life together have made me believe otherwise. I know him now more than I did then...I know his heart, his strengths, his weaknesses. He has made me feel safe in allowing myself to be known by him. We have accepted one another...and our love has grown. God is amazing. We are not perfect people, but we love one another and we love the Lord.

Yesterday, some other people acknowledged that my hottie boy is also a fine fellow. Several months ago, Brad applied for a scholarship. It was an in-depth application that required pages and pages of writing and lots of time to complete. He was then selected to be among the applicants to receive an interview by a committee. He flew to Dallas, TX and met with a group of people for a brief but thorough interview. Yesterday, the call came. Oddly enough, we were registering Sam for kindergarten and missed the call. {grin} Two of my favorite men and oppostie ends of the educational process...one beginning school and the other pursuing a PhD. He was awarded a scholarship and has been welcomed into this group called "John Wesley Fellows" - a group of scholars committed to teaching and living the way John Wesley did. This scholarship is a generous one. It means that Brad will be free from a bit of the load he has been carrying...providing for our family of 6 is no small task. He is diligently working as a teaching fellow (really ministering to and loving his students) and being a student...and it's a heavy load.

My husband is a fine fellow...and I am a proud wife.

Bedtime Chatter

2009-04-16T13:32:00.002-05:00

After a long and weary day, I was reading bedtime stories with my freshly-bathed "big" boys. Sam and Luke were climbing onto the bed as I searched for the book and our children's Bible...and the following conversation occurred.

Sam: "Mom, are cockroaches real?"
Me: "Yes, they are. Maybe we could look on-line tomorrow for a picture of a real one."
Sam: "Are they part of the crustacean family?"

Can't even believe this kid!

Cup Full...and Running Over

2009-04-15T19:15:00.003-05:00

Life is really getting in the way of my blogging lately. Well, then again, I guess I wouldn't have much to blog about if it weren't for my life. {grin}

It feels like our family is in one of those "spots" we find ourselves in from time to time. You know, the calendar is full, Brad's workload is tremendous, we've had lots of fun house guests, Brad travelled out of town overnight, and the list goes on and on.

In the midst of all of this activity, God has been doing something in my heart. I guess I shouldn't be surprised, but, I am (kind of). {grin} I am usually a better listener when my life is quieter. This season of my life has been anything but quiet - quite loud, in fact. However, my God knew that my well was dry...and in His perfect timing, He is filling my cup. Lent has always been a special time for me...walking the path of suffering with Jesus and remembering how badly I need a Savior. That sort of love - sacrificial to the point of death - is so difficult for me to understand. However, I am so thankful that it isn't mine to comprehend...but, just to accept. So, I have spent several weeks being reminded of God's amazing love for me in spite of my rotten, sinful life. It's humbling and very overwhelming. My heart has been so full of gratitude for His grace that I have often found myself weeping through my daily Bible study, or during my prayers with my little men, or while a song is playing on my Ipod, or while I am driving down the road, or while singing a hymn at church....you get my point, my heart is full to overflowing and it is leaking out of my eyes! {grin}

On Good Friday, I was doing the bedtime routine with Sam (5) and Luke (3). Luke was overly tired and had difficulty listening. Sam, on the other hand, was totally drawn into the words and pictures of Jesus trial, suffering, and death. His eyes were brimming with tears as he shared that it made his heart sad that Jesus died. At one point, Sam said, "I sure hope this story gets better...it's making me sad." My tear-stained face broke into a smile as I thought of how thankful I am that it hurts his heart to know that Jesus died for him. We talked about why Jesus had to die, how He took our punishment (this concept was so foreign to Sam - he said he wouldn't dream of taking a "time out" for Luke), we talked about how much God loves us. It was a special moment that is forever etched into my heart and mind. A gift from the Father to me and my son. Sam, Luke, and I said our prayers and then I kissed them goodnight. Sweet.

I was so looking forward to celebrating Easter...Brad's brother was coming to visit us (always fun!), so it would be even more special. I had prepared some of our dinner on Saturday evening, filled some baskets with goodies for each boy, and then went to bed. I woke up the following morning covered in HIVES! Red, blotchy, incredibly itchy hives covered my body from head to toe. I was unable to go to worship and I was crushed. I really wanted to be there - to see the lilies, sing the songs, see the little ones in their Easter pastels, and to be with my church family on this special day. God had another plan. Our celebration was more intimate, more informal, more simple, and more dear to me. We ate a yummy dinner, we laughed, we played, we searched for eggs, we ate candy, we shared lots of hugs, and we remembered how good God had been to us.

Our dear friends (missionaries who once served in Ecuador) taught our family this sweet little song from my childhood in Spanish. My children all love to sing this song and it's dear to us. It sums up how I am feeling these days.

"Running over, running over

My cup is full and running over

Since the Lord saved me, I'm as happy as can be

My cup is full and running over"

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-04-10T09:41:00.005-05:00

Sam was 10 months old when he got into this little bit of mischief. I turned my back long enough to put something away on the bookshelf a few feet away...and SHAZAM! He was "digging" in the soil that housed our ficus tree. Thankfully, I thought to grab the camera before the clean-up began. It was a major mess....requiring a bath & wardrobe change for Sam, a thorough cleaning with the Shop-Vac, and then a little carpet cleaning, as well. Whew! It's a good thing he was so cute! {grin}

Heard Around Here

2009-04-09T09:19:00.003-05:00

My kiddos are always saying funny things. They are sometimes so funny that I double over in laughter -and I"m certain that I will never be able to forget them. Other times, the words are so sweet and precious that I can't imagine the day when they wouldn't be in my heart. However, I am old....and tired....and forgetful....and busy.....and my head is full of thoughts....and I am easily confused!
With that in mind, I wanted a more permanent record of the things that are heard around here these days.

Sam:
With a huge grin on his face, "You know what you are, Mom? A cruel woman."
--This comment was made after I told him he couldn't play with Play-Doh until his bed was made. Funny kid..

Luke:
Me: "You are being so silly this morning. Are you a silly boy?"
L: "No, I not silly boy...I Lukey-boy"
(this conversation is played out in many variations throughout the day)

Caleb:
"AAAAWWWW" said while hugging a stuffed animal.
"Da Da" said at any sighting of his beloved daddy.

Matthew:
"Ah-Dah" said while signing "all done"
"Ma Ma Ma Ma" said whenever he needs rescuing from his crib, high chair, his brother's clutches, etc...

There are a million more I need to record...but, right now I hear the laundry calling. {grin}

The Same, Yet Different

2009-03-30T10:44:00.004-05:00

Caleb and Matthew, that is. They are very much alike...both blonde haired, both love to eat yogurt, both love to play "chase" with Sam, both love to be tickled, both don't like to have their diaper changed, both are all smiles when they wake up, both can eat their body weight in spaghetti & meatballs (okay, maybe I am exagerrating - but, they do eat a lot of it), they both LOVE splashing in the bathtub, and they both don't like green beans.

They have shared the same "space" since they were conceived...a womb, a crib, and a room. They are beginning to really enjoy playing with one another. Caleb and Matthew have their own version of "hide and seek" they like to play in their room. One of them will hide behind the curtains, and the other will giggle wildly when the "hider" reveals his face. It's so funny to watch. I pray that they will always be close friends...that all of my boys will treasure the special relationship between brothers.

While the twins share many things in common...they are individuals, for sure. Caleb is an avid reader - several times a day, he will bring a book us to read it to him. "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?" and "Barney's Weather Book" are currently at the top of his reading list. He requires a little more reassurance from his Momma - needs to see me at all times, or at least know that I am easily reached. He needs more hugs, kisses, snuggles...but, usually doesn't initiate affection. Well, except for the "open mouthed" kisses he has been giving me lately! How funny! Our dear friend, Phyllis, says that he has "the heart of an only child." {grin} This is so true! If he could have his parents undivided attention, he'd be in heaven! Caleb is famous for making this funny little face when he is very happy - he squints his eyes until they nearly disappear and cheeses the biggest grin. Funny! He loves that this makes our entire family giggle. Caleb is smaller than his twin brother - nearly 4 pounds lighter. His hair is lighter, too. He squeals more often - and much louder. Caleb falls asleep quickly...almost instantly. Caleb is a joy to our family...can't wait to see who he becomes as he grows.

Matthew makes a sweet little face when he is happy - scrunches up his little nose and squints his eyes. He "melts" in my arms when I pick him up...allowing his body to rest fully on mine and then pats my back with his pudgy little hand. This absolutely makes my heart soar. Matthew is a very dainty and polite eater - picking up one little piece of food at a time and being very patient in enjoying his meal. Matthew jabbers for a long time before finally falling asleep...it's so sweet to hear his little voice on the monitor when I am cleaning up after lunch. Matthew has a temper...he growls when something is taken from him. It's a LOUD growl. He wants to let us know he is angry and means business. However, when things are made right in his world, he is thrilled! Matthew is very affectionate - he often comes running into my arms for a quick hug or a kiss. He is a great dancer - shaking his little bottom to the 'Ten Commandment Boogie" while I make dinner. Matthew likes to "sing" along with the worship music at church, too. He loves to be tickled, chased, and to play "peek a boo." Matthew is content much of the time...such a sweet dispostion. We can't imagine the Johnson fam without this little guy.

Two little blessings...and twice as nice. {grin}

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-03-20T09:34:00.004-05:00

That's my sweet little Sam tucked into his Daddy's coat. Sam was about 5 months old when we made the lloonngg drive to Canada - Quebec to be specific. Brad was a youth pastor at the time and we were doing preliminary work for a mission trip he would lead that summer. We had a great time, met some amazing people, saw some beautiful sites, and took Sam sledding for the first time. Some great memories were made on that trip. We were driving along the road when we saw a van completely engulfed in flames, we stopped to ask the driver if he was okay. He sat in our truck until the fire department arrived. It was incredibly sad. On a lighter note, we ate Tim Horton's doughnuts for the first time - YUMMY! There was a ton of snow on the ground. So much snow, that Brad actually drove on a snowmobile path thinking it was the road! HA!

SAD?

2009-03-19T13:49:00.007-05:00

No, I am not down in the dumps...just wondering if I have been suffering from a mild case of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). You know, the sun doesn't shine much during the long winter months...and it can leave this momma feeling a little "blah." I am growing more convinced that I am solar powered. I can accomplish twice as much on a sunny day - and while singing a happy song! {grin and wink}

The past few days we have enjoyed sunny days and warm temperatures (in the low 70's midweek)here in Kentucky. Our windows have been open and our doors, too. The storm doors at our front and back doors are full-view glass with pull-down screens (I hope you know what I am talking about). This view of the outside world has left us amazed - we've seen birds (Luke's personal favorite), noticed our lilac bush is budding, witnessed our grass "greening" up, and watched the older kids riding bikes after school. Getting all of the boys outside by myself remains a challenge...maybe even more of a challenge than last summer. Luke has a greater understanding of our boundaries - and most of the time he respects them. Sam is totally reliable and typical first-born who always follows the rules. Caleb and Matthew are no longer content to sit in the stroller while the bigger boys play outside - they want to be in on the action! With no fence to contain them(and a big flight of stairs to our yard), it's a challenge to watch them all. It leaves me frazzled! So, we tend to play at the sand table on our deck before and after nap time...and wait until Brad gets home to really play outside.

The past few days - we have all been so excited to get outside. I have been motivated to have dinner ready on time, if not early. Sam and Luke have eaten dinner quickly in order to maximize our outside playtime in the evening. I think Brad has even gotten home a little bit earlier. We are all enjoying the great outdoors again! Caleb and Matthew have been exploring this new part of their world, too. So funny to watch them discover grass. Neither of them are fond of it. Matthew will work very hard to avoid falling down...he doesn't want to touch the grass in order to get back up! Caleb is very unsure about walking on the grass - as a matter of fact, he took just a step or two and then remained perfectly still the first time he was in the grass. I am sure this won't last long. I predict that by the end of the summer, they will be unstoppable!

I am sorry for the lack of new pictures. It's the same tired excuse, just haven't gotten around to uploading them yet. {grin}

Luke Andrew

2009-03-12T20:41:00.015-05:00

This picture was taken just minutes after you were born, March 9, 2006. I remember so well the events surrounding your arrival. You made your way into the world at 10:35 pm...just hours before your daddy's birthday on March 10th. You announced your arrival with a loud cry and Daddy prayed - thanking God for the good gift of you. We were so thankful that God had given us another little boy to fill our family. We had prayed and prepared for months...and at last, we were holding you in our arms.

Sam was 2 1/2 when you arrived. He was eager to meet "his baby" and was even more fond of you when he opened the gift you had "given" him. When he came to the hospital for the first time, you "gave" him a Veggie Tales play set. He loved it! He would learn to love you, too. At first, your crying really bothered Sam. As a matter of fact, you cried the entire way home from the hospital...and so did Sam. He was curious about you...and you were tolerant of him. I am so thankful that you two have become such good friends and playmates. No one makes you laugh or annoys you like Sam. {grin}

You were an easy baby...except when you were in the car seat. We were desperate to find a solution to your crying (the entire time we were traveling)...so, we tried a different car seat. SHAZAM! It was as if you were a totally different baby when you were not in the infant carrier. We were so relieved. You ate well. You also began to spit up quite well. Your spitting up soon became projectile vomiting...caused by pyloric stenosis. You had surgery to repair this tummy issue the same day you were diagnosed. Although it was a minor procedure (taking only 20 minutes), Daddy and I were shaken. You were so tiny, so frail, and we were unable to help you. I remember carrying you to the doors of the operating room and placing you in the arms of the anesthesiologist...and weeping. Daddy and I were quickly reminded that you were not ours - but, you belonged to God. We were reminded that God loved you even more than we did, and He would care for you. We prayed for your surgeons, your recovery, and your life. We were so relieved that the symptoms were gone immediately and you were able to come home the following day. We haven't looked back since then....you have been healthy, happy, and very busy.

Luke, you are an intense little boy. You love fiercely, play hard, jump high, run fast, roar loudly, giggle with gusto, kiss your momma with lots of slobber, celebrate big, and "squeeze hug" everyone you love. Physically, you astonish us. You are able to wink both eyes independently, you can hop on one foot, you did a forward roll at 11 months and have since moved on to headstands! You are practicing your coloring, drawing, and puzzle making...and doing quite well. You love to sing, march, and play instruments. You especially love to wrestle with Daddy & Sam. You most favorite thing of all is to be outside! You love to play in the sandbox (and throw it everywhere, I might add), ride bikes in our driveway, play basketball & baseball, and go to the park to "swing and slide."

Perhaps the most surprising thing about you is your heart. You really, really love people. You squeal with delight when Daddy comes home from work each day, you always grin from ear to ear and say, "Mommy, I found you" when I get you out of bed each morning, you always hug Sam and say, "Oh, hi Sam" repeatedly after you wake from your nap. You love to tell "knock knock" jokes before you and Sam fall to sleep each night. You are delighted by the simplest things. You are incredibly complex, as well. You are incredibly impulsive - throwing things, jumping, disobeying, and always at the most inopportune time. {grin} You are also incredibly polite. You always say, "Oh, thanks Mom" when I give you something or tell you that I love you. You also say, "Oh, excuse me" when you walk in front of someone at the library or the store. Daddy and I are so blessed to be your parents. We are so excited to see all that God will do in your life...and who you will become. Our prayer is that you'll become a man who loves God with his very life.

My sweet little boy is now three years old. Hard to believe. It has simply gone too fast. We love you, Lukey boy.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-02-27T21:46:00.003-06:00

This picture was taken in 1997, obviously on our wedding day. These two sweet little girls are my nieces. Morgan, on the left, and Ashley, standing on the right. I remember vividly that Morgan was asking me about her duties as flower girl once again and Ashley was admiring my bouquet. It was a truly wonderful day...marrying this amazing man of God and beginning a life together. It was such a special day - I can't remember a time since then that all of the people that I love have been gathered in one place. Oh, how I love these ladies...who have since grown into beautiful young women. Our littlest niece, Paige, was also a flower girl in our wedding - boy, was she ever adorable! She was just two years old at the time...she was more interested in sitting on her mom's lap between photos. (grin) Such sweet memories.

Quote of the Day

2009-02-19T12:57:00.004-06:00

The rush of lunch had come and gone, and the little boys (Luke, Caleb, & Matthew) were sleeping soundly in their cribs. How I love naptime! Sam and I were enjoying our new game, Candy Land Bingo. We were chatting as we played and the subject of breakfast cereal came up - don't ask me how, I can't recall. Sam is not much of a breakfast eater...I asked him why he didn't eat cereal. He answered in a very serious voice, "I don't know, Mom. I guess it's just not part of my diet." {grin} I am not really sure why, but this tickled my funny bone. I guess it's because he is mine and I am his mom.

Sam chose this picture, by the way. Happy Thursday!

With the Addition of Each Child...

2009-02-17T14:49:00.002-06:00

I have become more rude. Before I had children, I was thoughtful. I spent lots of time at the local card store, scouring the aisles looking for the perfect verse to encourage, uplift, thank, or celebrate an accomplishment of my family members and friends. I searched high and low for just the right gift for weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. I sent a thank you note for every kind act received - I probably even sent a thank for note in order to express my gratitude for a thank you note I had gotten. I was thoughtful.
When Sam was born, we were showered with generous gifts from our family and our church family. I remember weeping as I wrote over 70 notes to thank these kind people for their generosity to our little family. Sweet memories.
When Luke arrived two and a half years later, we were once again showered with generous gifts and yummy meals. It's overwhelming to be loved that extravagantly. It took a few months, but I eventually wrote the "thank you" notes.
Fast forward twenty months later, when the twins arrived. We not only received yummy meals and generous gifts that came two by two, but also help with moving. We moved to a bigger home just weeks after Caleb and Matthew arrived. I was recovering from a c-section and lack of sleep. I was helpless in many ways. I was unable to lift boxes, I was busy nursing little babies, I was recovering from the flu. ugh. I have never felt more vulnerable in my life. I don't like to be needy. I love the thought of living in "community" with my brothers and sisters in Christ. I love to help take care of their children, prepare meals for them, pray for them, support them...but, I am not very good at receiving that. One wise friend encouraged me to "Say thank you and then shut up." {grin}
Our friends, some of Brad's students from the seminary, and even people I had never met came to help us move. Some kind women even packed the remaining items in my kitchen and the contents of the cabinet under our sink (aka the "black hole" in my house - everything that doesn't have an obvious home ends up there)! It was humbling and the most generous act of love I have ever received.
I have never been more thankful to be loved, to be part of a community of believers, to be numbered among God's children. I saw God carry our family once again. I was so overwhelmed by gratitude. So overwhelmed that I didn't send one thank you note. Not a single stinkin' note. There simply wasn't time...unpacking, chasing children, feeding children, doing laundry, bathing children, and trying to get dressed before noon. Now, I feel like there is enough "space" in my daily routine that I have a few moments to begin to write some notes. However, I am too embarrassed now. It's been over a year ago! What would Emily Post say about such behavior? {grin}
So, I have never been more thankful or more rude. What a combination.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-02-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

Sweet little Luke with his Easter basket goodies. He was just shy of one year old and sweet as could be.

"Your Life Is Crazy, Mom."

2009-02-11T09:26:00.008-06:00

The blog has been neglected lately. My "real" life has gotten in the way of my "cyber" life, just as it should be. I am always blogging about how hectic the pace of life around here is...and it's only amplified when something unusual happens. Late last week, it was a change in our normal schedule that brought even more than the usual chaos into our happy little home. {grin}

Brad was out three nights in a row last week (Thursday, Friday, Saturday). This is so unusual for us. He was helping his former employer (boat dealership where he worked until his teaching fellowship began) during the annual boat show in downtown Lexington. Brad shares a great relationship with his former boss and his co-workers...and he loves boats! So, while he was earning a little extra cash for the Tribe, I was at home. ALONE. WITH. THE. BOYS. Please don't misunderstand, I love the little men and we spend lots of time alone together. {grin} Three long days followed by three dinners, two nights of baths, and three bedtime routines to do alone....it's a little much. I have such a greater appreciation for all that Brad does around here after he is gone...sigh. I also think God uses these times of "single parenting" to remind me to be mindful of my friends who truly are parenting children without help of any kind. I need to be offering help to them - even just a trip to shop alone for groceries or get a hair cut is a much-needed break. I digress...back to my "crazy life."

Let me try to paint the picture for you...we had just finished dinner and I was cleaning up the high chairs (totally disgusting) and removing a layer of food/grime from the boy's cute little faces. Sam and Luke were chasing one another around the kitchen pretending to be pirates and making all of the noise that goes along with that. "ARGGHH! YOU'RE WALKIN' THE PLANK!" Caleb is a child given to extremes -when he is happy, he is so very happy! When he in unhappy, he is attached to my pantleg howling loudly. The pirate boys were loud, but Caleb was unhappy...and much louder. {sigh} Matthew, the mellow one, was protesting at having his face washed - or maybe the loud noises were too much for him. Did I mention it was loud? Surprisingly, our home isn't often very loud...and I like it that way. Peace is a good thing. Again, I digress.

I needed to get the little one's dressed for bed (they had a bath earlier in the afternoon, following a major diaper blow-out incident that left me calling on The Lord for help), so I moved the mess into the living room where I had laid out the pj's earlier. The loud noises continued. Caleb was still unhappy - and very vocal about it...and still attached to my leg. Sam and Luke were now "space men" and were "blasting off into space in...5...4...3...2...1." So, babies were crying and rockets were blasting and the phone was ringing. It was nutty! Sam brought his rocket ship to a halt, looked seriously at me and said, "Your life is crazy, Mom."

You can say that again, Sam. I am glad you noticed. {grin}

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-02-06T12:19:00.004-06:00

Caleb (left) and Matthew (right) shared a crib until they were nearly 8 months old. Caleb was beginning to be a "fiesty" sleeper and kept waking Matthew before he was ready to wake up. It was a necessary move, but one that proved to be difficult for Matthew. The first night in his own crib, he cried and cried - very unlike him. I put him in the crib with Caleb and he went right to sleep. We began to transition them into their own cribs and nap times and then, eventually at night. So sweet to see how strong their "brotherly bond" is. Twins really do have a unique relationship. We are so blessed to see it lived out in these two little men. I love this picture of them. They are 8 weeks old. They were always touching one another and snuggling up as they slept. Matthew was a thumb sucker, and would often find Caleb's hand to suck on. Such cuties!

Riding the Emotional Rollercoaster of Motherhood

2009-02-04T19:04:00.005-06:00

Today began really early. I made my way to the kitchen at 6:20 and eventually found the coffee maker brewing a fresh cup for me...what a sweet man I live with. :) As I began to drink in the yummy goodness...Brad came to the kitchen to find me drinking the coffee he had brewed for himself. oops. It was early and my judgement was impaired by my lack of sleep the night before (Matthew and Caleb are teething -whopping molars that are so painful).

So, after my cup of coffee and a stimulating conversation with Sam...I made my way to the kitchen to unload and reload the dishwasher. We had dinner guests the last night (a total of 11 people around our table - so fun!)and I ran out of steam before the kitchen was entirely clean. Caleb and Matthew ate breakfast as I swept and sang along with the worship music bellowing from my Ipod. I was feeling good about my productivity...so good that I decided to be bold in my mothering today. I have been praying that I would be a "fun" mom who does creative things with her kids instead of working so hard to maintain "order" in my home and avoid big messes. Heck, who am I kidding? I spend most of my day cleaning up, wiping up, and picking up anyway...what's another mess? Especially when it's all done in the name of creative play.

So, I looked through the pantry and found a bag of rice. I got a cookie sheet for Sam and one for Luke and piled some rice on them. They spent the next 90 minutes creating roads for their cars, burying cars in rice, filling cups with rice and then pouring in out - pretending it was snow, and on and on. They had a really good time. I started to get a little anxious as rice was being spilled onto the floor...it seems as if I sweep the floor non-stop as it is. Then, I just decided I was being a control freak, up-tight, no-fun mom. I put the broom down and PLAYED with my boys. We laughed and had a great time together. When the fun was over (when Luke started to throw it into the air while yelling "whee"), I swept the floor. I put the remaining rice into a bag for our next rice adventure. I was feeling good about things. At this rate, I could be appearing on the next issue of "Family Fun" magazine. {giggle}

We enjoyed a yummy lunch together and even some appropriate conversation (totally avoiding "bathroom humor"). Everyone (except Sam who doesn't nap anymore) went down for a nap quite peacefully. Things were going well...and then Sam was invited to his friend's house (our neighbor) to play. Could it really be possible that I was about to have an entire hour all to myself? This day just kept getting better! {grin} I was almost giddy at the thought of reading a book after cleaning my bathroom. I finished my work and just as I sat down on the couch...Matthew began to cry. I waited to see if he would go back to sleep...but, no luck. It was one of those "OUCH - I am really uncomfortable" sort of cries. So, I went to rescue him. I had hoped that he would drift off again after a little comforting. No such luck. Just a few minutes later, Caleb began to cry. ugh. This had to be some sort of a bad joke! Both boys proceeded to cry and cry for nearly 15 minutes. They are rarely this upset - and certainly never at the same time. It was stressful, to say the least. After much prayer, rocking, singing, and whispering comforting words into their little ears..everyone settled down and we were able to play and have fun again. Whew.

So, this day was a good one and a challenging one, as well. My emotions were all over the place - highs and lows in such a short amount of time. Thank God that He is faithful, forgiving, constant, unchanging, forever-loving, all-knowing, and concerned with me and the smallest of issues in my daily life. I can't imagine being on this roller coaster without Him. Now, I need some chocolate.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-01-30T22:36:00.003-06:00

It's nearly Favorite Foto Saturday...been a crazy week around here. The entire Commonwealth of Kentucky has been hit by winter weather this week. It began with freezing rain that lasted overnight and coated everything (including our window screens - leaving us unable to see out) with about an inch of ice. The following day, it rained all day...and froze as the temperature dropped in the evening. The following day, we got about 2 inches of snow in one hour. It has left downed trees, hazardous driving conditions, schools and businesses closed, and thousands (nearly 60,000) without electrity. Our dear friends and their two little girls were among the folks without power. They have been staying at our house for the past few days and we are all having a great time. My kids are in HEAVEN! I love having them around, too. It's been like a party! We've really enjoyed our time together...so sweet to have such dear friends to share life with - even when it's unexpected events create the opportunity to fellowship. So, I am a little late in posting my fav foto...and boy, do I have some good "new" fotos to post. One of Sam playing Wii bowling. What a riot!

This pic of my sweet Lukey-boy was taken last summer...he had just woken up from a nap. He shares a cowboy themed room with Sam and loved this "howdy" sign above his crib. Such a sweet boy...

To Caleb & Matthew

2009-01-26T14:53:00.010-06:00

You celebrated your first birthday yesterday. It's so hard to believe that one year ago we met one another for the very first time. Although, I had some suspicions about your personalities from feeling you move and grow inside me. I love that you are fraternal twins (although lots of folks ask if you are identical - daddy and I don't think you look alike at all) - each with a distinctive look and personality. Two unique miracles...

Matthew Hunter. You made your entry into the world just two minutes before your brother...making you the third of the Johnson boys. You swallowed a gulp of fluid on your way out and had some difficulty breathing. Initially, the docs and nurses observed you in operating room where you were born...and then made the decision to give you some extra care in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit). Daddy went with you to be sure that you were not alone and to keep a close watch on you. The neonatologist decided that your lungs were too "wet" for you to breathe on your own, so you got some help from C-Pap (Positive Air Pressure, I think). This device was placed over your nose and forced air into your lungs. It was a frightening thing to see someone so small looking so helpless. I was just down the hall and came to see you often. After nearly three days, you were breathing room air and the C-Pap was no longer necessary. I was finally able to nurse you, rather than pumping milk for you. We were finally getting to know one another...you were sweet, snuggly, and absolutely precious. I was able to stay an extra day in the hospital so we were all able to leave the hospital at the same time. You joined Caleb and I in our hospital room on the fourth day of our stay, and your big brothers were finally able to meet you. You had begun to develop jaundice, so you spent some time "sunbathing" under some lights to reduce your bilirubin level. When we finally went home together, Daddy and I were never more certain that we chose your name well...Matthew - gift of God. Hunter is your Grandma Judy's maiden name...a family full of good, honest, sincere, hard-working, loving people.

On your birthday, Daddy was trying to choose one word that described each of his boys...your word was "contented." Caleb crawled before you, walked before you, and you didn't mind at all. You were taking your time. You truly are a happy little guy, not demanding much - but, enjoying anything that comes your way. You clap your hands and grin whenever someone else is celebrating or being praised. You love to snuggle and always lean in for another kiss from Momma. You do have a temper, however...we only see it when someone takes something from you. You get angry immediately - shaking your arms up and down, wrinkling up your nose, and making a growling sound and then producing tears. Even your tantrums are cute, for now. {grin} I love being your Momma, and I pray that you grow in wisdom, stature, and love for God and His people.

Caleb Robert. You were twin B, riding high in the womb and stretched out across my tummy for months. You were fiesty, active, and always made it tough for the technician to find you during our monthly ultrasound. I was so grateful to have you to keep me company while Matthew was being cared for in the NICU. You kept my arms from being empty, although still incomplete. Sam and Luke delighted in you when they met you. Sam couldn't wait to take a picture of you to share with his preschool class and Luke was a little less enthusiastic. {grin} He mostly ignored you and played with the remote control on my hospital bed.

Daddy really wanted to honor your Grandpa Bud by naming you after him. His given name is Calvin (although no one calls him that -except folks who don't know him)...we thought that Caleb was a nice modern version of that name. I struggled a bit because it means "bald." Your Grandpa Bud is bald...and you certainly had less hair than Matthew (yours was much lighter in color at birth), so maybe it's meant to be. {grin} Robert is a name with lots of history on both sides of your family. Your Daddy's Dad was a Robert and Daddy's brother is a Robert, too. Your Grandpa Bob died just before Daddy and I were married, but leaves a legacy that lives on in your Daddy and your Uncle Rob. Papa Bob was a man who loved fiercely, lived large, and delighted in his grandchildren. Oh, he would have been so proud that you shared his name. Your Uncle Rob is a hard-working, honest, smart, loyal man who loves his family...including you and your brothers. My great-grandfather was a Robert, as well. Great men with a great name. Daddy and I pray that you will grow to be a great man, too. A man doing great things for God.

You are still the more active, more assertive, more self-assured twin. You got the first tooth, crawled first, and walked first. You are quick to call {okay, cry} for help when you are hurt, scared, unsure of a situation, or feeling needy. Daddy's word for you is "uncertain." You need more reassurance...and we're happy to give it to you. When you are happy, you are so very happy! Your eyes light up, you squeal with delight, and your smile consumes your sweet face. You are a joy...a precious gift from God. Caleb, our greatest desire is that you would choose to love God with your entire life. That every bit of who you are would have God's fingerprint on it.

Happy birthday, my sweet boys.

Birthday Boys!

2009-01-25T18:37:00.003-06:00

Caleb digging in to his birthday cake...never had this much sugar before - and he really liked it!

Luke had a great time at the party. He sang "Happy Birthday" with great enthusiasm and then helped to blow out Matthew's candle. Luke can wink each eye independently, I finally caught it in this picture.

Sweet little Matthew wearing his birthday hat - he grinned from ear to ear as we sang to him.

Caleb wasn't quite as fond of the hat - but, left it on long enough to catch this picture.

I managed to make these two cakes for the boys...and they ate them with gusto!

I'll try to post some party details and a funny video in the morning...for now I am so tired. It's been a long weekend of celebrating!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-01-22T22:31:00.004-06:00

Caleb (left) and Matthew (right) at three months old. These cute bibs were a gift from my sister-in-law. TOO CUTE! So hard to believe that they are celebrating their first birthday on Sunday!

What a Whirlwind

2009-01-22T17:21:00.002-06:00

I just realized that I haven't posted since last Friday...the days in between have been full. Here is a quick re-cap.
Ma-Ma, Brad's grandmother suffered a stroke and was briefly hospitalized. She is currently working hard to recover at a rehab facility. The boys have been praying for her each night. When I shared the news with Sam, his first response was, "So, Pa-Pa (Brad's grandfather) is at home all by himself? I bet he is scared and he misses her." Her birthday is tomorrow - Happy Birthday, MaMa. We love you!

I have waded through an enormous amount of laundry. Thankfully, it's all done except one load currently drying. It's a never ending job - and I am so thankful that I have a washer and dryer at home. I can't begin to imagine what a chore it would be to carry everything to the laundromat.

We've been making preparations for the weekend festivities. It's going to be action packed, for sure. Caleb and Matthew celebrate their first birthday on Sunday, the 25th. We'll have a small party on Saturday afternoon. My parents and Brad's mom are travelling from Indiana to be with us. We are all looking forward to being together. Sunday morning, the babies (can you call them "babies" if they are one?)will be dedicated in our church's worship service. We had a yummy lunch today with our pastor and his wife to plan things. We're so grateful to be living life with folks at our church - and even more thankful that our boys have some many faithful followers to help them as they grow in faith. The littlest men will be having photos taken on Sunday afternoon. I am looking forward to that - should be like nailing gelatin to the wall. :) They are both very mobile now!

As I am typing, the noises of giggles and squeals from the bathroom are growing louder and louder. Brad is entertaining Sam and Luke with some tub paints and bath foam. I believe he is making "Ice Cream Sundaes" for them. What a good daddy!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-01-16T09:03:00.002-06:00

I remember the day this photo was taken vividly. I was 36 weeks pregnant with the twins and physically exhausted. Sam and Luke had been busy playing with this laundry basket all morning long...putting toys in and out of it, pretending it was a train and pulling one another around in it, laying down on the floor with the basket on top of them - pretending it was their "turtle shell", and on and on and on... After all of that serious play, they were ready for a little television time. I was so tickled to see that the basket then became a bench for the brothers (although, I did ask them to move back a little from the tele...). :)

The Little Men are Mobile

2009-01-15T09:55:00.003-06:00

Caleb and Matthew are nearing their first birthday. It seems nearly impossible that this time last year I was miserably uncomfortable, near tears each night as I crawled into bed, and looking forward to meeting these two little babies that would join our family. Oh man, I am getting weepy - that is another post for another time. ;)

Caleb and Matthew have been mobile for months now...crawling, then crawling quickly, then puling up, the cruising along our furniture, and now.....WALKING!! Well, Matthew is sort of walking - between pieces of furniture - but, without holding onto anything for more that a couple of steps. Surely he gets full credit for that! Caleb, on the other hand, is walking EVERYWHERE! He can be found walking down the long hallway to get to his bedroom, walking to the kitchen to gather some crumbs that have collected in the foot rest of his high chair from lunch, walking to the bath tub when he hears the water running...the little guy is everywhere! This is an exciting milestone...and actually it comes a little later for than it did for Sam(10 months) and Luke(9 months). It changes everything...nothing is off limits to them now! God, help me! :)

Imagination Station with Sam

2009-01-10T13:13:00.003-06:00

I had just gotten the 3 littlest ones down for a nap, Sam and I were trying to decide how we would spend our time together after we did the dishes. In the middle of our brainstorming session, Sam made this announcement, "Did you know I work as a policeman?" Thinking on my feet, I said, "No, tell me about it." This was all the encouragement he needed - the kid has an imagination in overdrive! He went on and on telling me about how "criminals and bandits are trying to take the food away from God's people and little children. We cannot stand for that, Mom. I have to go downstairs to get my cape and my boots. I need boots because it's raining." Then he went off to save the world...wearing his superman cape and his rain boots. What a joy!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-01-09T09:16:00.004-06:00

This is sweet baby Sam when he was 21 months old. We were vacationing in Florida and I caught him lounging by the pool. His sweet little tummy just melts my heart. I only wish my tummy had the same effect! :)

Who Are You?

2009-01-07T09:54:00.004-06:00

My mom says I was a curious child...and apparently adulthood hasn't squelched this characteristic. I watch my little "feedjit" reader on the side of my blog. I see that folks from Lexington, KY, Belleville, IL, Muncie, IN, etc... are checking up on the Johnson Tribe. They are just locations...but, I know that there are actual people behind those locations. It's fun to think that someone, heck, anyone might be interested in what is going on in our world - that my time spent writing and uploading pics isn't in vain. (grin) But, my curiousity gets the best of me - I want to know who you are. I am so grateful for the internet and think it can be a great tool for good...but, I get frustrated by the anonymous nature of cyber communication. God created us for community - no one is anonymous in God's family. Would you mind posting a comment - say it loud and proud "WE FOLLOW THE JOHNSON TRIBE!"

Catch Up - Not to be Confused with Ketchup

2009-01-03T21:18:00.017-06:00

The little men in their Christmas Pajamas. This was the best photo out of 6 - getting them all to look at the camera is like nailing gelatin to the wall!

Caleb wrestling Matthew to the ground...lot's of this happening now that they are very mobile!

The Fab Four after "Treats on Main" here in Wilmore. The main downtown street is closed off and businesses hand out candy and have games set up for the kiddos. Big Fun! Notice Mr. Incredible, the two M&M's, and Luke as himself. He chose to not wear his Buzz Lightyear costume - opting for the more non-traditional costume of a "2 year old boy." (grin)

Okay, I have shared before that while I take a lot of pictures - I am terrible about loading them onto my computer. That is why I am just now loading pics from the fall! We have this "mega sized" card in our camera, so it can hold several hundred pics. It isn't terribly difficult to do it - simply plug it into the USB port and turn on the camera. I have been thinking about why i don't do it more often, it really would be fun to show updated pics of the handsome young men living in this house (and that handsome big man who lives here, too). I think I procrastinate because it forces me to look at my very untidy "digital photo album' on my computer. It's a disaster - photos from every year and season all jumbled together. Oh sure, I have created little folders...I got lots and lots of them...the pics just don't always end up in them. Sometimes the pics end up in multiple places - and then I am unsure as to whether it's the only copy of it or if it exists in another folder somewhere. UGH. I need to start over...too bad I have over 6 years worth of pictures to wade through.

Brotherly Love

2008-12-29T19:05:00.004-06:00

So, just a few days after I posted about Luke's intensely "physical" love language...he proves me wrong. :) Brad's mom (NeeNee Linda to my boys) was here from Indiana visiting with us over Christmas. She showered the boys with gifts, washed the dishes after nearly every meal, and provided some one-on-one attention for each little boy. What a blessing! Brad and Sam took Linda home on Saturday, spending the night with her before returning home on Sunday. I don't like for us to be separated from one another...it creates an uneasiness in me that I can't really explain. I am not fearful, fretful, or any other "fuls" - just feels strange and unnatural to me. Apparently, Luke feels the same way. :) The little boys had gone to bed right on time, and it was sweet to have only Luke to prepare for bed. We snuggled and drank chocolate milk together, read a few extra books, and prayed together. I tucked him in and he began to sob...saying sadly, "Sammy.....Sammy.....Sammy." He and Sam have shared a room for some time, and Luke has grown accustomed to Sam's presence at bedtime. Poor little guy was heartbroken without his big brother. I reassured him, whispered comforting words to him, prayed with him again....the sobs continued. I asked him if he'd like to talk to Sam on the telephone...tears stopped and a huge grin took over his tear-stained cheeks. Sam was so kind to Luke , saying..."It's okay, Luke. I am only here for a visit. I am coming home tomorrow. Don't be sad, Luke. I am coming home." So sweet to see my Sam comforting his little brother...and sweet to see the special relationship that these two share. God has knitted their hearts together - and I pray they remain friends for a lifetime.
Fast forward a few days to tonight (Monday)...Sam had fallen asleep on the couch after dinner. Luke was watching a little television with Brad and I (he was THRILLED to choose the dvd without Sam's input) when he noticed that Sam was snoozing. As he approached his big brother, I was fully prepared to reprimand him for trying to wake Sam. Imagine how I felt as I watched him carefully lean over and place a gentle kiss on Sam's head. AWWW! He did this several times before Sam stirred a little...and then Luke grinned and said, "Oh, Hi Sam!" What a blessing for this momma's heart! These sweet memories will come in handy tomorrow when they are arguing over a toy, having trouble keeping their hands to themselves, or saying hurtful words to one another. :) For tonight, I am just thanking God for giving them the gift of brotherly love.