An Amazing Experience

Today I had the privilege to witness one of God's most amazing miracles-the miracle of birth. Tanya, Craig, and Olivia Grace welcomed Carter into the world today and invited me to be a part of it. Tanya and I have been into photography for a while and have taken some classes together. We joke and say we are going to be photographers when we grow up:) We have spent hours oohing and aaghing over lots of pictures, but particularly birth photography. So, when Tanya found out she was expecting, she asked me if I would come into the delivery room and be the "birth photographer." I didn't really think she was serious and kind of brushed it off. But, as the day got closer, she mentioned it again. I think she and I both were a little nervous but I was very honored and willingly agreed to do it. I will have to say it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life (aside from the birth of my own children of course :) I believe I was more nervous today than when I gave birth. I knew this was a one shot deal and I didn't want to disappoint Tanya. When it was "time," Becky, Craig, and I assumed our posts in the room and Carter arrived rather quickly, much to Tanya's delight. We got some great pictures of those first moments of life. Carter is beautiful and I am dying to show him off, but I will let his Moma be the first to share his picture with the world. I am so thankful that my family has Tanya, Craig, Olivia Grace, and now Carter in our lives. They are so special to us. Thank you Tanya and Craig for letting me share in this special time in your life.

To my baby boy...

I thought since I am trying to use this page to preserve some memories for the boys, I would write them notes on their birthday. Yeah, I know I am a few days late with Peytons but here it goes anyway...

To My Dearest Peyton,
I know if you were reading the title, the first thing you would say is, "Moma, I am not a baby." And I would tell you like I always do that you will ALWAYS be my baby. I cannot hardly believe you just turned four. It seems like yesterday that we brought you home from the hospital. Since the first time I laid eyes on you, I have been head over heels in love. Those big blue eyes just melt mine and your Daddy's heart. I never knew how just looking at someone and watching the little things they do could make me so happy.
You have such a tender heart and you try very hard not to hurt people's feelings. I hope you always have that way about you. You have really grown up in the last few months. And, you are very proud to tell everyone who will listen that you are 4 now. Actually, you prefer to show them with your fingers. You also think that because you are four, you have to have four of everything, eat four of everything, etc. You are so funny!
I am so proud of the way you have handled having a baby brother. I know it is not easy going from being the center of our universe to sharing it with someone else but you have handled it so well. Most of the time you love Wilson as much as we do. It makes my heart melt when you show me with your fingers who is "like this" and you include Wilson along with me, you, and Daddy without us even asking you too. Your unconditional love for him makes me love you even more.
I could go on and on about all of the things that make me proud you are my son. But just remember Peyton, that as much as me and Daddy love you, Jesus loves you so much more and I am so glad he gave me you!
I love you!
Moma

Ahoy Matey!

Today was a big day at our house. We celebrated Peyton's 4th Birthday, although his birthday really isn't until tomorrow. Since we just got back from a Disney Cruise, we decided we'd have a Pirate Mickey party. I seem to forget every year just how much work a birthday party is. But...in the end it is all worth it because the kids have so much fun and we get to spend time with the people who mean the most to us. It is really hard for me to believe Peyton is 4. I think I'll blog more about that tomorrow. Back to the party...it was pretty uneventful at first. I had been a little worried about the weather but that all worked out. Peyton is old enough now to run around and play and pretty much do his own thing. The kids were sliding, playing in the pool, and enjoying the hot dogs and cake. Well...I was beginning to enjoy the delicious cake (made by Mrs. Paula :) and then Logan pointed out to me that Wilson was covered in ants. Apparently he had picked up a cheeto off the ground and it had already been claimed by ants. Well, my first instinct was to grab him and dunk him in the pool. Those ants were everywhere...even up his nose. Leave it to us to have to have some calamity at the party. We survived and Wilson only has about 30 bites. I don't even think Peyton realized it happened. After that Peyton had a ball opening presents. It is amazing how grown up he is now. He played and played all evening with his presents and I think Daniel had as much fun with them as he did. I have put a slideshow from the party on here. It was a great day!