A wonderful weekend with the family + friends. I am so very thankful for all that we have been blessed with.
As you can see, Molly is starting to take after her daddy in the music department!
xoxo- Happy Weekend!
Friday, October 26, 2012
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Picture Tuesday
My brain is mush. These middle schoolers take it out of me!
Here a few photos from my time spent in South Africa.
Enjoy
xo
Monday, October 8, 2012
Pre-School in Ikageng
OH how I miss these little faces.
I miss their hugs
I miss their laughter
I miss the fact that we didn't share the language but we still had a great time together.
I wanna go back. Like yesterday.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Pray for Minah
We took off our shoes as we walked into her semi-new three bedroom home. After spending almost every day on the building site the last thing we wanted to do was to to bring red dirt into this woman's home as she welcomed us in with a smile.
About eight of us sat on the floor as she sat on her love seat. There was a coffee table that separated us from her but it felt like more than that, as she was much older and had seen harder days that most of us could have imagined. She knew how to speak English but was tired so she asked that we use our friend Louise as the translator.
With the help of Louise, she began to tell us her story. She told us of how she had lived in the "Mokokoo's" (township/scrap metal shacks) and become the mother to children that were not her own. A collective society by nature, most Africans are willing to open their home and take in children that are left orphaned by AIDS, misfortune or death. Despite this common trait there are still too many children that are left abandoned by their parents, taken advantage of and become one of many that are called orphans. Minah became a mother to orphans when her sister died as she opened up her home to more than 4 children and began to raise them as her own. Still living in a scrap metal shack, she would wake up before the sun and catch a bus into "town" where she worked hours on end as a house helper. After a long day working for a more affluent person she would once again catch the bus back to her scrap metal shack and finish the task of being a mom to 4 little mouths and 8 little hands. For many years she lived this way day in and day out.
She now lives in a home furnished by Mosiac that is made of brick and mortar. She and her husband, Wilson have their own room. The boys have a room as well as the girls. When we last spoke with her she told us of how her job is becoming harder to complete. The woman she works for (who is a believer by the way) is constantly telling her that she is not working hard enough and that she can be easily replaced. Minah did not reveal her age, but the lines on her face told the story of many years of hardship. As we talked with her about her life and how it had changed since becoming a part of the Mosiac family the barrier of culture, language and life experiences seemed to become smaller and smaller. When we asked if we could pray for her the barrier disappeared all together. We became family as we prayed for her endurance and strength. For her patience as a mom to four and as a wife to Wilson. We thanked God for her life and for the beautiful family that she has made.
As we got up to say our goodbyes I leaned down on the couch to hug her and as I did I pressed my face up against hers. I hugged her and whispered in her ear that I loved meeting her and would continue to keep her in my prayers. I noticed that her face was hot against mine but dismissed my thinking as an over reactive mom to a toddler.
Tuesday I opened up my email to read some devastating news. South African friends from across the world asking us to pray for Minah. She had fallen ill and was taken to the hospital. It was at the hospital that she (and her family)discovered for the first time that she has full blown AIDS.
I sat back from my computer a mixture of shock and heartache. Her sons and daughters now faced a future uncertain. Her husband, how was he to cope with this news as well as face the reality that he as well might have HIV? Minah, who had given her life to her family and to hard work to receive such a devastating diagnosis.
So halfway across the world, when its our night and Minah's day, - let us join together in praying for Minah. Let's pray for someone who we may never ever know or see or hold but let's pray for her healing, for good medicine and for peace to be on her family.
About eight of us sat on the floor as she sat on her love seat. There was a coffee table that separated us from her but it felt like more than that, as she was much older and had seen harder days that most of us could have imagined. She knew how to speak English but was tired so she asked that we use our friend Louise as the translator.
With the help of Louise, she began to tell us her story. She told us of how she had lived in the "Mokokoo's" (township/scrap metal shacks) and become the mother to children that were not her own. A collective society by nature, most Africans are willing to open their home and take in children that are left orphaned by AIDS, misfortune or death. Despite this common trait there are still too many children that are left abandoned by their parents, taken advantage of and become one of many that are called orphans. Minah became a mother to orphans when her sister died as she opened up her home to more than 4 children and began to raise them as her own. Still living in a scrap metal shack, she would wake up before the sun and catch a bus into "town" where she worked hours on end as a house helper. After a long day working for a more affluent person she would once again catch the bus back to her scrap metal shack and finish the task of being a mom to 4 little mouths and 8 little hands. For many years she lived this way day in and day out.
She now lives in a home furnished by Mosiac that is made of brick and mortar. She and her husband, Wilson have their own room. The boys have a room as well as the girls. When we last spoke with her she told us of how her job is becoming harder to complete. The woman she works for (who is a believer by the way) is constantly telling her that she is not working hard enough and that she can be easily replaced. Minah did not reveal her age, but the lines on her face told the story of many years of hardship. As we talked with her about her life and how it had changed since becoming a part of the Mosiac family the barrier of culture, language and life experiences seemed to become smaller and smaller. When we asked if we could pray for her the barrier disappeared all together. We became family as we prayed for her endurance and strength. For her patience as a mom to four and as a wife to Wilson. We thanked God for her life and for the beautiful family that she has made.
As we got up to say our goodbyes I leaned down on the couch to hug her and as I did I pressed my face up against hers. I hugged her and whispered in her ear that I loved meeting her and would continue to keep her in my prayers. I noticed that her face was hot against mine but dismissed my thinking as an over reactive mom to a toddler.
Tuesday I opened up my email to read some devastating news. South African friends from across the world asking us to pray for Minah. She had fallen ill and was taken to the hospital. It was at the hospital that she (and her family)discovered for the first time that she has full blown AIDS.
I sat back from my computer a mixture of shock and heartache. Her sons and daughters now faced a future uncertain. Her husband, how was he to cope with this news as well as face the reality that he as well might have HIV? Minah, who had given her life to her family and to hard work to receive such a devastating diagnosis.
So halfway across the world, when its our night and Minah's day, - let us join together in praying for Minah. Let's pray for someone who we may never ever know or see or hold but let's pray for her healing, for good medicine and for peace to be on her family.
-7 The Spirit of God, the Master, is on me
because God anointed me.
He sent me to preach good news to the poor,
heal the heartbroken,
Announce freedom to all captives,
pardon all prisoners.
God sent me to announce the year of his grace—
a celebration of God’s destruction of our enemies—
and to comfort all who mourn,
To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion,
give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes,
Messages of joy instead of news of doom,
a praising heart instead of a languid spirit.
Rename them “Oaks of Righteousness”
planted by God to display his glory.
They’ll rebuild the old ruins,
raise a new city out of the wreckage.
They’ll start over on the ruined cities,
take the rubble left behind and make it new.
You’ll hire outsiders to herd your flocks
and foreigners to work your fields,
But you’ll have the title “Priests of God,”
honored as ministers of our God.
You’ll feast on the bounty of nations,
you’ll bask in their glory.
Because you got a double dose of trouble
and more than your share of contempt,
Your inheritance in the land will be doubled
and your joy go on forever
because God anointed me.
He sent me to preach good news to the poor,
heal the heartbroken,
Announce freedom to all captives,
pardon all prisoners.
God sent me to announce the year of his grace—
a celebration of God’s destruction of our enemies—
and to comfort all who mourn,
To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion,
give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes,
Messages of joy instead of news of doom,
a praising heart instead of a languid spirit.
Rename them “Oaks of Righteousness”
planted by God to display his glory.
They’ll rebuild the old ruins,
raise a new city out of the wreckage.
They’ll start over on the ruined cities,
take the rubble left behind and make it new.
You’ll hire outsiders to herd your flocks
and foreigners to work your fields,
But you’ll have the title “Priests of God,”
honored as ministers of our God.
You’ll feast on the bounty of nations,
you’ll bask in their glory.
Because you got a double dose of trouble
and more than your share of contempt,
Your inheritance in the land will be doubled
and your joy go on forever
Isaiah 61:1-7
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Where is your home?
It is wonderful in many ways to be back in States after a 10 day trip to South Africa. I have so many stories to share and pictures to post. I missed my family very much and was beyond excited to see them waiting for me after that long 16 1/2 hour flight back to Atlanta.
I learned a lot about myself in the 10 days that I was separated from all things familiar and hope to share some of them here.
One thing that really made an impression on my heart was the way I felt the day we had to leave. I walked out of a temporary "home" that we had been living in and realized how much I felt like I was already home. Of course Allen and Molly were two essential missing pieces but I felt like I was amongst family. I was sad to leave. I was calculating and planning for the next time that I could be back home in South Africa.
Home was no longer defined by a street address, comfortable bed, common language and familiar food but by the people that I was sharing my life with. I really miss the beautiful people that I was able to spend time with last week. I check my e-mail hoping that I might find something from them. I find myself thinking of ways that I can pray for them and continue to share my life with them. I know that I have a home amongst my friends in South Africa.
It is so so so good to be back in the same place where my husband and daughter live. I missed them every day that I was gone and can't seem to get enough of them now. Molly is speaking new words every day and is infatuated with my lipstick. She laughs at herself and at us and is a shining light in every day. I do not think a more supportive husband exists outside of Allen. To be a single parent for 10 days and to welcome me home with grace and love was such a beautiful testimony to me of how Christ loves me and takes care of me.
The other day I told Allen "lets quit America and move to another country" and I really believe that whenever and wherever we might do that, we would be home.
I learned a lot about myself in the 10 days that I was separated from all things familiar and hope to share some of them here.
One thing that really made an impression on my heart was the way I felt the day we had to leave. I walked out of a temporary "home" that we had been living in and realized how much I felt like I was already home. Of course Allen and Molly were two essential missing pieces but I felt like I was amongst family. I was sad to leave. I was calculating and planning for the next time that I could be back home in South Africa.
Home was no longer defined by a street address, comfortable bed, common language and familiar food but by the people that I was sharing my life with. I really miss the beautiful people that I was able to spend time with last week. I check my e-mail hoping that I might find something from them. I find myself thinking of ways that I can pray for them and continue to share my life with them. I know that I have a home amongst my friends in South Africa.
It is so so so good to be back in the same place where my husband and daughter live. I missed them every day that I was gone and can't seem to get enough of them now. Molly is speaking new words every day and is infatuated with my lipstick. She laughs at herself and at us and is a shining light in every day. I do not think a more supportive husband exists outside of Allen. To be a single parent for 10 days and to welcome me home with grace and love was such a beautiful testimony to me of how Christ loves me and takes care of me.
The other day I told Allen "lets quit America and move to another country" and I really believe that whenever and wherever we might do that, we would be home.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Gratitude lately
Gosh, there are so many things to be grateful for lately! Here a few off the top of my list:
1. Family (including awesome in -laws that love on baby girl so much and are so generous with their time)
2. Our Church. I am still blown away by the ROAR (there is no other way to describe the sound) of prayers that were prayed over our team as we prepare to leave on the Passion Pretoria Global Trip.
3. The hint of fall weather.
4. Nature's hair dryer aka driving with my windows down
5. The Aveda Insititute, because I have not used a hair brush in 21 days and counting.
6. Friends that email me with scripture so that I can breath easy on a 16 hour plane ride and remember I am not in control - God is.
7. And absolutely my family of 3. I would rather be with Allen and Molly than anywhere else in this beautiful world.
1. Family (including awesome in -laws that love on baby girl so much and are so generous with their time)
2. Our Church. I am still blown away by the ROAR (there is no other way to describe the sound) of prayers that were prayed over our team as we prepare to leave on the Passion Pretoria Global Trip.
3. The hint of fall weather.
4. Nature's hair dryer aka driving with my windows down
5. The Aveda Insititute, because I have not used a hair brush in 21 days and counting.
6. Friends that email me with scripture so that I can breath easy on a 16 hour plane ride and remember I am not in control - God is.
7. And absolutely my family of 3. I would rather be with Allen and Molly than anywhere else in this beautiful world.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
six days....what?
Our team leaves in 6 days. Only 6 more days to get percriptions filled, packing lists made and freezer meals put together (can't leave the hubs and molly alone with just bread and cheese in the fridge). More importantly, I want to spend time with those that I love. Conversations that are intentional and meaningful.
I still can't believe that I am going to Africa. I am so thankful that that God has given me the opportunity to live out a dream that has been in my heart for over a year. A dream that was hidden in my heart and shared with 3 other people, God has brought out into the open and made a beautiful way.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Hints of Autumn
The weather lately has been spectacular. I am greeted with hints of fall weather as I step outside on to our front porch in the morning. I drive with my windows down to work and put the heat on at my feet. I know that Atlanta is teasing us with the cooler temperature. In a few weeks (maybe days) it will be hot and humid again but for the moment I am going to fall in love with the temptation of fall weather.
This morning I was reading over at Simple Mom and discovered some great outdoor fall activities. I am hoping to borrow some of hers and add some of mine to create new fall traditions for our family.
1. Visit a pumpkin patch
This one is for the whole family. Picking out pumpkins to dress up our front porch, to carve with friends and to say "oh we will roast the seeds" will be fun for us all. Its a good excuse to get outside and feel the cooler temps too!
2. Make caramel apples
This is one mainly for the adults. Not a usual every day kind of craving but caramel apples sure are delicious. Make mine green underneath please!
3. Collect leaves
How can you not smile and take in the beauty that our Creator made when designing the annual leaf change. The red, orange and my favorite - yellow can be stunning. I know that Molly will love finding ones and holding them in her hands as we discover different shapes and colors -all made by nature.
4. Trick or treat
We are not big into Halloween at our house. You will not see many decorations ( I think a pumpkin is about it) but we don't see the harm in letting Molly dress up and have fun with other friends in the neighborhood. It gives us a chance for community with those we live near and for molly to have a special night to stay a few minutes up past her bedtime. She won'tmiss notice the candy when its' all gone the next morning (you know Allen has a major sweet tooth)
5. Take a hike
Thought of for Allen but really for the whole family. I am so thankful that I married someone more outdoorsy than me. Otherwise, Molly would only know activities inside and not have the pleasure of experiencing outside play. Whether it is here in GA or somewhere in NC we will definitely plan a fall hike in the upcoming months!
What activities do you love to share during this beautiful season?
This morning I was reading over at Simple Mom and discovered some great outdoor fall activities. I am hoping to borrow some of hers and add some of mine to create new fall traditions for our family.
1. Visit a pumpkin patch
This one is for the whole family. Picking out pumpkins to dress up our front porch, to carve with friends and to say "oh we will roast the seeds" will be fun for us all. Its a good excuse to get outside and feel the cooler temps too!
2. Make caramel apples
This is one mainly for the adults. Not a usual every day kind of craving but caramel apples sure are delicious. Make mine green underneath please!
3. Collect leaves
How can you not smile and take in the beauty that our Creator made when designing the annual leaf change. The red, orange and my favorite - yellow can be stunning. I know that Molly will love finding ones and holding them in her hands as we discover different shapes and colors -all made by nature.
4. Trick or treat
We are not big into Halloween at our house. You will not see many decorations ( I think a pumpkin is about it) but we don't see the harm in letting Molly dress up and have fun with other friends in the neighborhood. It gives us a chance for community with those we live near and for molly to have a special night to stay a few minutes up past her bedtime. She won't
5. Take a hike
Thought of for Allen but really for the whole family. I am so thankful that I married someone more outdoorsy than me. Otherwise, Molly would only know activities inside and not have the pleasure of experiencing outside play. Whether it is here in GA or somewhere in NC we will definitely plan a fall hike in the upcoming months!
What activities do you love to share during this beautiful season?
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
A trip I never thought I would take
I used to always say that the one place that I never wanted to see was Africa. I never wanted to travel there for pleasure or purpose. Not interested. Not even the tinest bit.
In college I had a few friends and acquaintances that really got on an Africa bandwagon. They read a lot, prayed about it and flew across the ocean. I still wasn't interested and kind of went in the opposite direction of what I simply saw as a "popular mission destination." I don't feel bad about that. I do wish that I had been a better encourager to those people in my life, but at that time, Africa was not written on my heart. God was still at work in my life and He knew what I did not know.He knew that Africa would come in time, and I would pray with a longing to be placed there.
Now here I sit, 9 days away from boarding a plane that will take me to...Africa. I will leave my husband and daughter behind for 10 days while I travel to this giant continent full of people who are just like me - broken and in need of Jesus daily. I am sitting on the edge of my seat, waiting anxiously to hold hands of children, smile and hug women and pour my energy into building a home for a foster family.
I hope that I can update this blog as I travel and meet new faces. As I reflect on what God has done and is already doing in my life and in the lives of others that I walk alongside
In college I had a few friends and acquaintances that really got on an Africa bandwagon. They read a lot, prayed about it and flew across the ocean. I still wasn't interested and kind of went in the opposite direction of what I simply saw as a "popular mission destination." I don't feel bad about that. I do wish that I had been a better encourager to those people in my life, but at that time, Africa was not written on my heart. God was still at work in my life and He knew what I did not know.He knew that Africa would come in time, and I would pray with a longing to be placed there.
Now here I sit, 9 days away from boarding a plane that will take me to...Africa. I will leave my husband and daughter behind for 10 days while I travel to this giant continent full of people who are just like me - broken and in need of Jesus daily. I am sitting on the edge of my seat, waiting anxiously to hold hands of children, smile and hug women and pour my energy into building a home for a foster family.
I hope that I can update this blog as I travel and meet new faces. As I reflect on what God has done and is already doing in my life and in the lives of others that I walk alongside
Monday, September 10, 2012
a little bit of him and me together
Everyone always asks," Does she look like you or like Allen?" I love this question. It is so amazing to me that two people can together create another life. Sometimes I forget the simple truth that Molly will grow up to look more like me or more like her dad. We always say that she looks more like Allen but resembles baby pictures of me. As she has grown from baby to toddler I have loved discovering habits and behaviors that are alike to mine or alike to Allen's. Some that we notice are completely unique to Molly, after all she is her own little individual person.
I have so many hopes and dreams for this little girl. She is the most beautiful person that I have ever met. As I rocked her yesterday afternoon before her nap, I whispered in her ear " molly, you are the best gift mommy has ever received. I never knew I could love someone as much as I love you."
So grateful for the Lord's blessing as I have another day to spend and share with my daughter.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
June & July
Some photos of the family (mainly molly) of June and July
She loves taking care of "babies" all the live long day.
I think the face she is making while drinking her milkshake is too funny. How can you make a face like that while drinking something soooooooooo good?
Friday, August 31, 2012
What's up Morrisons?
Well, it certainly has been a looooooooooooong time since I have posted anything on this blog! The summer kept us super busy and the transition back to work (for me) and school (for molly) was even more hectic.
The storm has settled some and we are finding our ways into a new routine. I miss the long mornings of summer when we all had breakfast together and enjoyed each other's company. Now the mornings are filled with rushing and hurrying and fast thinking and spilling coffee and forgetting papers etc. You know the drill.
Labor day weekend is upon us and while I wish that we had some grandiose lake plans with family, we will actually be apart. My good friend is celebrating her 30th with a girls trip to the beach. I can't wait to see college friends and hours of girl talk. I will certainly miss the husband and baby though.
The storm has settled some and we are finding our ways into a new routine. I miss the long mornings of summer when we all had breakfast together and enjoyed each other's company. Now the mornings are filled with rushing and hurrying and fast thinking and spilling coffee and forgetting papers etc. You know the drill.
Labor day weekend is upon us and while I wish that we had some grandiose lake plans with family, we will actually be apart. My good friend is celebrating her 30th with a girls trip to the beach. I can't wait to see college friends and hours of girl talk. I will certainly miss the husband and baby though.
Enjoy the long weekend!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Conversations with Molly
This a typical conversation I have with Molly at least twice a day:
Molly: Da-deeeeeeeeeee
Me: Daddy? Do you miss your daddy?
Molly: Yeah (nods her head)
Me: I miss Daddy too, he is working right now.
Molly: Da-Deeeeeeeeee!
Me: Molly, do you loooove your Daddy?
Molly: Yeah (nods her head)
Me: I love your Daddy too.
Molly: Da-Deeeeeeeeeee
Me: Daddy? Is your Daddy fun to hang out with?
Molly: Yeah (head nod)
Me: Yeah, I think so too.
Molly: Da-deeeeeeeeeee
Me: Daddy? Do you miss your daddy?
Molly: Yeah (nods her head)
Me: I miss Daddy too, he is working right now.
Molly: Da-Deeeeeeeeee!
Me: Molly, do you loooove your Daddy?
Molly: Yeah (nods her head)
Me: I love your Daddy too.
Molly: Da-Deeeeeeeeeee
Me: Daddy? Is your Daddy fun to hang out with?
Molly: Yeah (head nod)
Me: Yeah, I think so too.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
On being twenty nine
A few weeks ago I celebrated my 29th birthday. It was perfect and I would not have changed a thing.
Molly and I spent our morning out at the pool, I took an hour yoga class at our YMCA, we met Allen for pizza and we booth enjoyed a long afternoon nap. That evening Allen's parents (Grammy M and Granddaddy) came over and watched Miss Molly so that we could go out on a little date.
Our little date consisted of: jalapeno cheese tater tots, shrimp tempura taco, fresh guacamole and Maui fish tacos. I loved our time together - just me and him and I am so thankful that I get to celebrate 29 beside Allen.
After that we headed to Starbucks for a seriously yummy iced coffee and desert and then picked up a free couch (passed on to us) at our cousins house. It was a wonderful night.
I haven't been that reflective of "twenty-nine" I no doubt will be at the big 3-0, but I do know that I am so thankful for what God has blessed me with in my life. Loving parents, good husband, healthy child, fun job, friends that stand by and walk through life with me, passionate church, caring in laws etc. I could let the list go on and on.
I hope that I can take pleasure in these things and think on them often instead of the overflowing laundry basket, dirty kitchen sink and unvaccumed floor. It is easy for me to focus on the imperfect or frustrating facts instead of the more positive truths of my life in this moment.
Here is to another year of life filled with the intention of living a little more thankful and a little more positive.
Molly and I spent our morning out at the pool, I took an hour yoga class at our YMCA, we met Allen for pizza and we booth enjoyed a long afternoon nap. That evening Allen's parents (Grammy M and Granddaddy) came over and watched Miss Molly so that we could go out on a little date.
Our little date consisted of: jalapeno cheese tater tots, shrimp tempura taco, fresh guacamole and Maui fish tacos. I loved our time together - just me and him and I am so thankful that I get to celebrate 29 beside Allen.
After that we headed to Starbucks for a seriously yummy iced coffee and desert and then picked up a free couch (passed on to us) at our cousins house. It was a wonderful night.
I haven't been that reflective of "twenty-nine" I no doubt will be at the big 3-0, but I do know that I am so thankful for what God has blessed me with in my life. Loving parents, good husband, healthy child, fun job, friends that stand by and walk through life with me, passionate church, caring in laws etc. I could let the list go on and on.
Here is to another year of life filled with the intention of living a little more thankful and a little more positive.
Summer lately
Our summer has been fantastic lately. Lots of time with family and friends. Every other day spent at the pool, more time for trying out new recipes and taking advantage of books that I have been wanting to read.
Molly is growing up so fast. Just this month tons of words have been added to her vocabulary. She says her favorite things over and over again (hide, outside, cheese, ee (i.e. monkey), hi, daddy, mama, up) She is communicating so well with us and even her non verbal is very clear. I am so excited as we approach this new season of toddler hood even though it comes with some bumps along the way.
Molly has declared herself miss independent in more ways than one - so prayers for this mama are appreciated. :)
Her favorite past times are drawing with chalk, walking her stroller along with baby doll up and down the sidewalk while I frantically keep up with her, swimming, watching curious George, hiding behind curtains and ridding piggy back around the house.
I am so THANKFUL for her! She brings joy into our home every single day!
Molly is growing up so fast. Just this month tons of words have been added to her vocabulary. She says her favorite things over and over again (hide, outside, cheese, ee (i.e. monkey), hi, daddy, mama, up) She is communicating so well with us and even her non verbal is very clear. I am so excited as we approach this new season of toddler hood even though it comes with some bumps along the way.
Molly has declared herself miss independent in more ways than one - so prayers for this mama are appreciated. :)
Her favorite past times are drawing with chalk, walking her stroller along with baby doll up and down the sidewalk while I frantically keep up with her, swimming, watching curious George, hiding behind curtains and ridding piggy back around the house.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Safe Haven
One of the best things we have ever done for each other and our marriage.
WinShape Retreat was remarkable.
A whole weekend away spent with each other was the perfect opportunity to recharge, rest and remember how much we love and value each other.
It was awesome.
Maybe you wanna go?
WinShape Retreat was remarkable.
A whole weekend away spent with each other was the perfect opportunity to recharge, rest and remember how much we love and value each other.
It was awesome.
Maybe you wanna go?
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Mountain Adventure
My favorite place in the world is just a few hours away. Highlands, North Carolina is a treasure to me. My grandmother and grandfather fell in love with Highlands and passed this love down on to me at a very young age. I have so many precious memories of my childhood summers spent on the front porch with them watching the hummingbirds and learning about the different flowers.
I am so thankful that Allen and I have had many opportunities to road trip up to this little gem of North Carolina and make our own memories. Now that Molly is a part of our family she of course makes it even more amazing to me. Here are a few photos of our recent mountain adventure!
1) Molly sharing daddy's birthday cupcakes, 2) silly parents 3) Family ice cream 4) Beauty
I am so thankful that Allen and I have had many opportunities to road trip up to this little gem of North Carolina and make our own memories. Now that Molly is a part of our family she of course makes it even more amazing to me. Here are a few photos of our recent mountain adventure!
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Offically Summer....
Friday was my first offical day of Summer. It was wonderful. I am so looking forward to spending time with my family as we go on adventures around Atlanta, down to the beach and up to the mountains. We have a few small plans up or sleeve and I know that they will be wonderful because of the company that we will have.
Already, Molly is in full swing. She has recently gained an enormous amount of energy (maybe its all the peaches she keeps asking for?) and has me constantly on my toes. The other night we ventured down to the pool and baby girl had us laughing as she wanted to walk around the shallow end. She kept on walking right up to her arm pits and was not happy when finally had to tell her no." Don't worry, she held our hands the entire time. She goes down slides by herself and runs around the house in circles. It is awesome.
This year of teaching students was exceptionally wonderful for me. I taught alongside some amazing educators, loved my students so much and worked under purposeful and efficient administrators. It was a joy to be at work most of my days and I am so very thankful for that. I am also so thankful for a whole 2 months off to play and love on my sweet daughter.
Already, Molly is in full swing. She has recently gained an enormous amount of energy (maybe its all the peaches she keeps asking for?) and has me constantly on my toes. The other night we ventured down to the pool and baby girl had us laughing as she wanted to walk around the shallow end. She kept on walking right up to her arm pits and was not happy when finally had to tell her no." Don't worry, she held our hands the entire time. She goes down slides by herself and runs around the house in circles. It is awesome.
This year of teaching students was exceptionally wonderful for me. I taught alongside some amazing educators, loved my students so much and worked under purposeful and efficient administrators. It was a joy to be at work most of my days and I am so very thankful for that. I am also so thankful for a whole 2 months off to play and love on my sweet daughter.
Friday, May 25, 2012
zero.
Zero more days until schools it out. School is out for Summer! We have been a busy little family with mother's day, service projects with church, molly and our 3 year anniversary! What a full life it has been though and so many things to give thanks for!
This weekend we are off for a fun family mountain adventure and I am jumping up and down with excitement! What are your memorial day weekend plans?
Friday, May 18, 2012
four.
Now we are down to five four more days. Yippi-eeeee. I know that I have been MIA but with the school year winding down and Mother's day, plus Miss Molly being sick we have been busy. This weekend is another crazy one coming and then next week it is our 3 year anniversary (woot woot!) and Allen's 29th birthday.
This was a photo I snapped Saturday of Mother's Day Weekend.
Just how I wanted to spend it: Allen/Molly/Pool
Friday, May 11, 2012
Eight.
I only have eight more days of work. Eight more days until ...summer. I love that in my career I am able to experience summer. I am able to slow down with my family and enjoy the sunshine. I am so excited about this summer. We have small plans -- nothing like some fancy beach getaway ---but perfect for us.
Most of all I am excited about being a stay at home mom for 2 whole months. Mornings with Molly, afternoons with Molly and evenings with Molly. I am sure we will watch plenty of "Curious George" aka "The E E" as she fondly calls him, have picnic lunches and swim at the pool. I. cannot. wait.!
I snapped this photo as I was leaving the house to drive to work today. Molly in her monkey pajamas, waving bye bye to mama. Of course she is hugging her baggie of animal crackers, my child loves hugs. Allen is crouched down beside her. I guess he didn't want to document his early morning face for me. I love those two!
Most of all I am excited about being a stay at home mom for 2 whole months. Mornings with Molly, afternoons with Molly and evenings with Molly. I am sure we will watch plenty of "Curious George" aka "The E E" as she fondly calls him, have picnic lunches and swim at the pool. I. cannot. wait.!
I snapped this photo as I was leaving the house to drive to work today. Molly in her monkey pajamas, waving bye bye to mama. Of course she is hugging her baggie of animal crackers, my child loves hugs. Allen is crouched down beside her. I guess he didn't want to document his early morning face for me. I love those two!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Morning Snuggles
Somehow we have fallen into a family tradition. Every single morning (with an exception of a few) our little family of three snuggles down under our covers and spends the first of the days moments together.
Once Molly came along we no longer had any use for an alarm to go off to wake us up and tell us its time to start the day. Almost to the exact moment our little girl wakes up at 7am crying for us to come get her. She does not sit in her crib and play or talk to herself - she wakes up crying. This is our alarm clock.
So almost every morning I mumble to Allen "honey can you please get her?" and almost every morning he does. Sometimes I am already awake and so I happily walk into her room and pick her up, other times I am in a sleep coma and I stumble into her room looking for a paci to keep her quiet for just a few more minutes. We pull her into the bed with us and snuggle under the covers. I love these moments so very much. This morning as she laid her head on my pillow and grabbed my hand I watched her reach out and touch her daddy's head. He reached up and held her other tiny hand and there she lie, happy as a clam with both parents by her side. After a little while I whispered to her "mommy has to get ready for work" and she shook her head no and pulled my hand closer to her chest. So I told her okay and I snuggled even closer.
Once Molly came along we no longer had any use for an alarm to go off to wake us up and tell us its time to start the day. Almost to the exact moment our little girl wakes up at 7am crying for us to come get her. She does not sit in her crib and play or talk to herself - she wakes up crying. This is our alarm clock.
So almost every morning I mumble to Allen "honey can you please get her?" and almost every morning he does. Sometimes I am already awake and so I happily walk into her room and pick her up, other times I am in a sleep coma and I stumble into her room looking for a paci to keep her quiet for just a few more minutes. We pull her into the bed with us and snuggle under the covers. I love these moments so very much. This morning as she laid her head on my pillow and grabbed my hand I watched her reach out and touch her daddy's head. He reached up and held her other tiny hand and there she lie, happy as a clam with both parents by her side. After a little while I whispered to her "mommy has to get ready for work" and she shook her head no and pulled my hand closer to her chest. So I told her okay and I snuggled even closer.
I know that these moments will not last forever. So I am going to enjoy them for as long as I can. I know that Molly may not remember them but I plan to store them in my heart forever.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
cheese dip and chalk
This past weekend was really great. We spent a lot of time together as a family on Saturday and that just filled my heart right up. The past few months in the Morrison home have been really busy. The weekends somehow turned into massive "to-do" lists instead of just spending time with the ones you love.
This Saturday I was determined to not let that happen. It almost did, but awesomeness prevailed and we were all under the same roof for the entire day.
Allen surprised us (me and molly) on Thursday with a giant play fort for the backyard and we spent the majority of Saturday playing on that. Molly loved coloring the sidewalk with chalk and we took lots of water breaks in between.
Sunday morning Molly and I headed out to the Y and spent some time splashing in the pool. I had about 2 million sweet moments with her and had to mentally photograph all of them in my mind. We sat together in the water and played with some toys, we twirled around in the deep end, and we made new friends. Molly is a huge hugger and will hug just about anyone big or small.
This weekend was so beautiful. I am so glad I didn't miss things like: our gardenias in full bloom, watching molly make friends, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, molly learning how to nod (say yes) and watching her trust herself as she went down the slide all by herself.
What a privilege it is to be a part of this family that God has so greatly blessed me with!
This Saturday I was determined to not let that happen. It almost did, but awesomeness prevailed and we were all under the same roof for the entire day.
Allen surprised us (me and molly) on Thursday with a giant play fort for the backyard and we spent the majority of Saturday playing on that. Molly loved coloring the sidewalk with chalk and we took lots of water breaks in between.
Sunday morning Molly and I headed out to the Y and spent some time splashing in the pool. I had about 2 million sweet moments with her and had to mentally photograph all of them in my mind. We sat together in the water and played with some toys, we twirled around in the deep end, and we made new friends. Molly is a huge hugger and will hug just about anyone big or small.
What a privilege it is to be a part of this family that God has so greatly blessed me with!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
A space for us
Hi, I am Whitney Morrison. I'm a wife, mama, and avid diet coke drinker. This is my blog. Welcome
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