Three in a row

Easy-to-Make Felt Purse

2009-11-09T18:27:00.000-08:00

Easy-to-Make Felt Purse

Lewis and Clark days

2009-06-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

We went to St. Charles for Lewis and Clark days

The boys LOVED it.

The duel

The boys and me

The reenactment includes a grand parade, military encampment, fife and drum corps muster, musket and cannon demonstrations, a skillet throw, and period music, food and wares. Each day begins with the raising of colors and the day ends with retreat and the lowering of colors. It was so much fun. We enjoyed walking around the historic district of St. Charles after they lowered the flags.

An Anniversary with my Best friend

2009-06-16T14:46:00.001-07:00

We are Nine, June 3rd, 2000
Wine Tasting at Hermannhoff Winery, with the most amazing weather possible. It was such a great time.

Here are both of us with our Posy pictures in the Cellar

Just so much wine!

Our Anniversary this year was a time to look back at the good times give thanks and time to look ahead to live our dreams together.

We are so blessed.

Daddy date's

2009-06-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

Story time, right before bedtime! Pat has a date everynight with the kids, for "devotions" they look forward to the time to cuddle in the chair, and spend time with daddy.

Check out there crazy get ups in the pic.

I love seeing Pat, enrich the kids this way this pic gives me warm fuzzy's.

Little Zoo Friends

2009-06-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Ellie is 2, Noah is 4, and Elijah is 5
A sweet brother and sister moment

One our favorite places together is the Stl Zoo

Here we are strolling through Historic Hill, I love the elaborate architechture, and the monkeys,

birds, and reptiles! Oh My.

Swing sweet Chariot

2009-06-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

Elijah in his "Chariot" Swing

Three Little Monkeys

2009-06-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

Speak no evil, hear no evil, see no evil

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

My three little monkey's

When not jumping on the bed, we can be found at a local park playing, here I asked them to have a seat on this pretty rock to get there pic.

We had just been looking at encyclopedia that morning with Elijah, where there was a statue of the famous "See no Evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" Which recalling from my World Religion's class derived from China, In Confucius teachings.

Elijah had the idea of doing this for the pic. He is such a fun little boy to be around.

Note: My Monkey's are inverted

Caught in the Act

2009-06-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

Here is Ellie in the bathroom, covered in bronzer, and soap (washing the bronzer off her hands)
She was surprised! I caught her soapy handed, covered in mommy's make-up. I asked what she was doing? She said, "I want to be pretty for Daddy". Oh sweet girl, you are so pretty to your daddy and I. I pray that we will show her what true beauty means in Christ. That she would be a gentle beautiful, quiet spirit for God. I am praying for this little girl, that she will be a proverbs 31 girl.

Botanical Baby

2009-04-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

A trip to Botanical gardens, a 14 cent ice cream, A piece of candy from an olde time candy store, and all of her parents attention, was a great week-end with Ellie Faith while Noah was with Mimi and Grandadd, and Elijah was with Paw Paw and Nina. We had a blast with Ellie. The boys loved their personal time with their grandparents as well. It was nice for us too, one child is so easy!

Teddy Bear's Picnic

2009-03-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

The weather was beautiful, momma sick, and no car = Teddy Bear Picnic in the front yard.

Noah and his bear

Ellie our little mommy feeding her bear!

If you go down to the woods today You're sure of a big surprise. If you go down to the woods today You'd better go in disguise.
For ev'ry bear that ever there was Will gather there for certain, because Today's the day the teddy bears have their picnic.
Ev'ry teddy bear who's been good Is sure of a treat today. There's lots of marvelous things to eat And wonderful games to play.
Beneath the trees where nobody sees They'll hide and seek as long as they please Cause that's the way the teddy bears have their picnic.
If you go down to the woods today You'd better not go alone. It's lovely down in the woods today But safer to stay at home.
For ev'ry bear that ever there was Will gather there for certain, because Today's the day the teddy bears have their picnic.
Picnic time for teddy bears The little teddy bears are having a lovely time today Watch them, catch them unawares And see them picnic on their holiday.
See them gaily gad about They love to play and shout; They never have any care;
At six o'clock their mummies and daddies, Will take them home to bed, Because they're tired little teddy bears.

Little Tigers

2009-02-24T11:16:00.000-08:00

I found these Mizzou t-shirts for the kids for $2 dollars, I thought how cute! Here they are donning their Missouri clothes for all of our Mizzou friends! Of course including Uncle Andy and Aunt Anne who walked in December at Mizzou. It is a school, I would be happy if our kids went to. Check out the little cat stickers on the boys. It came with the T's! I sure do have some wild little Tigers.

Batman

2009-02-15T13:47:00.000-08:00

Elijah in his batman costume from Nina and PawPaw

He loves to dress up and wears these costumes out, The last costume was a spider man, he wore it so much that it is in shreds. It is made of nylon, and runs.... so the life expectancy is very long. He is my hero! He is such a good big brother, and helps his sister and brother all the time. He is starting to really help out a-lot around the house I am very thankful for this guy.

Forest Park = Cheap Therapy

2009-02-08T22:44:00.000-08:00

The race
Ellie coming in behind them

Two little mop tops

Brothers Protection

Jumping for joy over this amazing weather

As I write this I am of course in pain. I will get into all the details and the particulars later. I just wanted to let everyone know, we are doing well. I am better, but it is chronic, so it doesn't go away. I just feel more relief at times. Things are falling behind at home but that is expected!! Especially when the mom isn't able to do anything for a month. I have three beautiful little mop tops who have gotten used to helping themselves to their own snack, putting on their own, clothes, shoes, bows, etc. Their clothing looks like a bachelor has washed and dried it and put it away. None the less I have lay ed all these things on the altar. I am feeling better, I was borderline stir crazy, and feeling blue. However, a beautiful day in Forest Park in this amazing weather was just what the Dr. ordered. We have had our fair share of sickness lately. I woke up with some stomach thing and I am finally feeling better, a side effect of the meds. I start, a bible study tomorrow night and I am really looking forward to that. I still have not made it back to Church and that has made me very very sad. I miss everyone and cannot wait for the fellowship again.

Apple Pie perfection

2009-01-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

mmmm....... with fresh cream

New Year, New Hair

2009-01-04T00:07:00.000-08:00

Here we are on New Years Eve. Having a guitar hero party, and enjoying each other's company, and yummy food. I also rang in the New Year, with New bangs how exciting!!!

Christmas

2008-12-31T10:36:00.000-08:00

Elijah on the "Dirt Bug" we got from my parents

Here is Marnie looking at the family Tree I made for her for Christmas

The kids in front of our Christmas Train
The kid's getting into all their goodies, and Sally listening to Tom's mp3 player from us, and wearing the hat I knitted for her christmas gift.
The Easel our gift to the three kiddo's
Christmas Break

Happy New Year

2008-12-29T12:58:00.001-08:00

Fever, Blisters, and more tylenol

2008-12-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

I will spare the hideous pictures of this, I will show you a copy of our favorite Christmas read instead, this book is amazing! It is by Joyce Dunbar you should check it out.

So Santa left us a special treat this Christmas..... okay, so maybe not Santa, it happened the night of the boy's Christmas program. Ellie struck a very high fever about the same time we hosted Grandadd and Mimi for dinner before the program. She was not feeling well, her fever spiked high, and she was very ill quickly. after a few days she broke out in these horrible blisters around her mouth, she also had them all over her tongue, and mouth. She could not eat at all, poor girl. She was miserable, I mean extremely in pain, and made sure to remind us of her discomfort, we tried to keep her hydrated, Orajel....ed, to help the discomfort of blisters all over her mouth, and tongue. Ellie is typically the bubbly happy girl, who has such a twinkle in her eye. She is usually all silly smiles, and very enthusiastic. It was sad watching her not enjoy Christmas.

Noah is now going through it, his mouth and lips, and tongue are covered in these big horrible blisters, that seem to eat away at their flesh. He is also lacking in enjoying playing with his toys from Christmas, he spiked a fever on Christmas eve, and has been whimpering through the pain. My heart breaks for them.

I have been washing my hands like crazy, and try to keep everything disinfected. However, Noah must have at some point kissed his sister, or something. With them being so close in age it is inevitable that they share what they have.

I actually now have some blisters in my mouth as well. So as we miss out on Church service, etc. you will know we are just sparing you the trouble of dealing with this. I actually had Nursery this morning at Church, and asked someone to fill in for us!

Information on HFMD if you want to know more:

Here is info about this viral infection called Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness of infants and children. The disease causes fever and blister-like eruptions in the mouth area. The disease usually begins with a fever, poor appetite, malaise (feeling vaguely unwell), and often with a sore throat.
One or 2 days after fever onset, painful sores usually develop in the mouth. They begin as small red spots that blister and then often become ulcers. The sores are usually located on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks.
A non-itchy skin rash develops over 1–2 days. The rash has flat or raised red spots, sometimes with blisters. The rash is usually located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet; it may also appear on the buttocks and/or genitalia.
A person with HFMD may have only the rash or only the mouth sores.
Cause
HFMD is caused by viruses that belong to the enterovirus genus (group). This group of viruses includes polioviruses, coxsackieviruses, echoviruses, and enteroviruses.
Coxsackievirus A16 is the most common cause of HFMD, but other coxsackieviruses have been associated with the illness.
Enteroviruses, including enterovirus 71, have also been associated with HFMD and with outbreaks of the disease.

How It Is Spread
Infection is spread from person to person by direct contact with infectious virus. Infectious virus is found in the nose and throat secretions, saliva, blister fluid, and stool of infected persons. The virus is most often spread by persons with unwashed, virus-contaminated hands and by contact with virus-contaminated surfaces.
Infected persons are most contagious during the first week of the illness.
The viruses that cause HFMD can remain in the body for weeks after a patient's symptoms have gone away. This means that the infected person can still pass the infection to other people even though he/she appears well. Also, some persons who are infected and excreting the virus, including most adults, may have no symptoms.
Everyone who has not already been infected with an enterovirus that causes HFMD is at risk of infection, but not everyone who is infected with an enterovirus becomes ill with HFMD.
HFMD occurs mainly in children under 10 years old but can also occur in adults. Children are more likely to be at risk for infection and illness because they are less likely than adults to have antibodies to protect them. Such antibodies develop in the body during a person’s first exposure to the enteroviruses that cause HFMD.
Infection results in immunity to (protection against) the specific virus that caused HFMD. A second case of HFMD may occur following infection with a different member of the enterovirus group.
Diagnosis
HFMD is one of many infections that result in mouth sores. However, health care providers can usually tell the difference between HFMD and other causes of mouth sores by considering the patient’s age, the symptoms reported by the patient or parent, and the appearance of the rash and sores.

There is no specific treatment for HFMD.

Christmas Ornaments

2008-12-22T16:24:00.000-08:00

yes, we are over ran by Christmas ornaments this is years of giving each other one each year since 1997, and our parents giving us one each. I love all the memories each one of them brings, but, seriously? We have a shelf in our basement just for ornaments. We had fun decorating the tree with the kids this year, we have cocoa, or eggnog and listened to Celtic Woman Christmas, and The Muppet's Christmas, sipped our drinks, and had a great time together. Our tree, had a spot where all of the ornaments were hung by the kids. They have a limited area to hang. ha :)

Christmas Cheer

2008-12-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

A Movie starring my mom

2008-12-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Actually this is just her "White Elephant" gift, I drew her name, my family likes to come up with crazy gifts for each other we have a great time.

So maybe you have heard of the movie "Her Alibi" with Tom Selleck? My mom's Hollywood crush is Tom Selleck so I think she is going to enjoy her white elephant this year!

Santa Baby

2008-12-19T23:30:00.001-08:00

Here is our "Classic" Santa photo one in tears, one with a deer in the headlights, and another being put out, because Santa didn't put him on his lap, but squished him.

It cracks me up! Is that bad? I thought he was a great Santa, he was very good with the kids, and I love his natural beard. Merry Christmas- Love the Lloyd Kids!

What we were doing last year at this time

2008-12-18T08:03:00.000-08:00

sleeping Noah
Drooling Minnie Mouse. So happy

Flower

Driving a car, Elijah loved it!

riding on Daddy's shoulders one of the best ways to get around Disney!

A tropical palm tree. Oh how nice.

Beautiful red flowers where we stopped to have a snack

My sleepy two year old Noah

A snack from Mimi and Grandadd's yard. Delicious. If you aks Elijah, what his favorite food is...his reply is always fruit

Sweet Pea

We walked around everywhere, I remeber passing back and fourth as she slept most of the time.

Noah riding Dumbo the Elephant

Happy girl teething, she was covered in drool

Noah had his sweet little 2year old baby curls

Peek a boo it's Piglet! Their very favorite!

Elijah gave everyone such huge bear hugs he loved lunch with the characters at the Crystal Palace.

Ellie did not.

Time for fun with Tigger!

Mimi's girl

DisneyWorld!!! Ellie and Daddy at the Buzz Lightyear ride our favorite.

Space hero troops, ready to fight the Evil Zurg

this is what happens to naughty toddlers at DisneyWorld

The Christmas Castle Show, it was amazing! We took like 50 pictures of it! I know silly.

Birthday Present

2008-12-17T16:18:00.000-08:00

So for my b-day gift my brother went and cut down this tree and even delivered it to my doorstep, what a nice gift. It was really very thoughtful thanks Jack! Love you. Here is Elijah helping him hold it up, he looks so little next to my brother.

The Artist

2008-12-17T16:11:00.000-08:00

here is painting one of his hero's Buzz Lightyear, I think every little boy loves buzz at some point in their life. Nathan Clubb also has an attachment to Buzz. Elijah did such an awesome job, I am so proud, he finished it, and it is hanging up in his bedroom!

Balls of Yarn Wreath

2008-12-16T22:35:00.000-08:00

Soo cute look at this little wreath of yarn my friend spotted in a starbucks! How cute!

Piggy tails

2008-12-16T21:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a celebration of Ellie's first Piggy tails, it marks a huge advancement in any little girls life. We had a little photo shoot, and when she saw her piggy tails the first time well...she was smitten. She really hammed it up for me!

the funny thing about this shoot she was sitting in this big adult chair and after every picture she would go "wanna see" and then praise me with a "I yike it"!

She is such a beauty, we are so happy and blessed to have a little girl

Crinkle nose gets this from her Momma

Date night in a Minivan

2008-12-16T21:38:00.000-08:00

So thanks to the wonderful ladies at our church, (they get together once a month to watch all the little ones so their parents can catch a date with each other) We were able to go to the Surrex Christmas Party. It was a-lot of fun. I met so many I.T. people that night, which was very int resting. We didn't take our camera but snapped these when we got home. The second was our first attempt, but obviously too close! I love date nights with my hub. Thank you so much Ladies!!!!

These are a few of my favorite things

2008-12-16T21:17:00.000-08:00

visits with friends especially those with little ones (Amanda and Meyer)

Knitting

and CanningHomemade christmas gifts

Now that I am able to walk around I am starting to participate in getting ready for christmas!

St. Louis Cathedral

2008-12-16T21:09:00.001-08:00

ceilings of the cathedral
Sanctuary

Look at that architecture

The St. Louis Cathedral is one of New Orleans' most notable landmarks. This venerable building, its triple steeples towering above its historic neighbors, the Cabildo and the Presbytere - looks down benignly on the green of the Square and General Andrew Jackson on his bronze horse and on the block-long Pontalba Buildings with their lacy ironwork galleries. Truly, this is the heart of old New Orleans. Patrick and Rich enjoyed their visit her thoroughly and said it was even more beautiful in person.

A little gift from New Orleans

2008-12-16T20:53:00.000-08:00

Fowl feathered friends, Yes this idea and name was born to a five year old with a vivid imagination upon the arrival of his father.

Turkey girl "proudly named by her biggest brother" She is equipped with feathers that can tickle you....beware
The orange Wolverine (Elijah) He says he is like wolverine exactly except he is wearing his favorite color. Look out bad guys.

Owl man Of course he is nocturnal, and screeches, at his prey. Wise above the others he knows what you are up to so do not cross Owl man

Here are the kiddo's together before bedtime, the night daddy came home and shared with them their "gift" from his travels. Pat was gone a week in New Orleans for a Sales Meeting with Surrex.

Welcome Home Daddy, you were missed!!!

A Shower for Isla

2008-12-16T20:28:00.000-08:00

Lauren and Isla, opening their gifts for a "little" post Thanksgiving family shower.
Aunt Christy, Nancy, Lauren, Isla, and Marnie

Looking at the progression of aging in a cute book from Andy and Anne

I am so happy that they made it up for thanksgiving it was so great spending time with them.

Here is the little watermelon bubble outfit for baby Isla

Lauren listening intently as we share with her the horrors of delivery. Just kidding.

Everyone little person needs a winnie the pooh
"Pooh, promise me you won't forget about me, ever. Not even when I am a hundred."Pooh thought for a little."How old shall I be then?""Ninety-nine."Pooh nodded. "I promise," he said.Winnie the Pooh, The House at Pooh Corner

Loadie opening Isla's new floor mat gym and Grace with Marnie

Presently Exhausted.

Isla will be joining sometime in April, I am so excited I cannot wait! Get to work on that Nursery Robbie and Lauren!! Love you!

Art History

2008-12-02T00:46:00.000-08:00

Villers, a Girl Drawing 1801

Shrimpy Chippy

2008-12-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

Here is little Ellie belle at the kids table

My son Elijah, the cook......I have been out of the kitchen, having back problems again. So Elijah and Noah are playing upstairs, I am reading a book, and the kids are quiet = priceless.

Well Elijah comes down and is in the kitchen for awhile and calls his brother down, he says "Noah it appears Mommy isn't cooking for us tonight so I made you my special"....special I am thinking you are five, what other than..getting yogurt out the fridge is your special. "Shrimpy Chippy" I am in the living room kind in a daze with my book and look up, and make my way into the kitchen they are at their little kids table eating... Shrimp cocktail (leftover hor'dourves from my mom's) (Is it even good?) on a little scoop tortilla chips. Well I am so proud of this little first born for taking initiative to feed his siblings.

Read with me

2008-11-30T21:21:00.000-08:00

Come next to me little ones and we will read a good book. So that is what you do when your back hurts, you get a heating pad, a cozy blanket and read great classics to your children. I love reading to the kids, and they love to hear stories.
I love the illustrations of these two classics!

I really love these older versions they are amazing.

Noah's best night ever

2008-11-19T22:41:00.001-08:00

Noah with Mimi stuffig boxes for Operation Christmas Child
Ellie with her box for a little girl Ages 2-4; she put a puppy, a baby, crayons, all things little girls love.

Look Mommy ,No hands!! Here we are with Grandadd at his church

Daddy and Elijah stuffing his box full of little boy goodness.

At the end of the night at Ellie's party at Grandadd and Mimi's we walked right over to Grandadd's Church and stuffed Christmas Child boxes. The kids had a blast, and wanted to do it "again and again" We have done this every year, but they just had the greatest time, I think because they were with their grandparents!! Noah whispered in my ear at bedtime that it was his "best night ever". He has such a heart to serve. I love them all.

Elfed Ourselves

2008-11-18T15:20:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Chapter TWO

2008-11-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

Enjoying the attention of a b-day song.

The little boys = Trouble

Andy and Anne's new baby, Gauss

Ellie's favorite Grandadd

This week-end we celebrated Ellie's 2nd b-day at Mimi and Grandadd's house.

Ellie was enjoying the day, and her eyes dazzled as everyone layed affection on her. She was so proud of herself when she played "princess" dress-ups, and when we sang Happy Birthday. I hope that I can raise this little girl, to grow in to a beautiful young woman.

My sweet little girl is growing so fast, she is such a joy. I love her so very much. She is such a cuddly, loving little mommy. She loves to care for her babies, and her brothers, and Mommy and Daddy. I am so happy to have her as my little girl. I love the way she wrinkles and crinkles her nose, when she is being silly, or thinks that anything is funny. I love how she talks and talks....(you have no idea what she is saying but she is very intent, with hand gesture and body language as to get her point across.) I like how she says with a squeal of delight "Like that"!!

She is a true Daddy's girl, I am so excited that she has a Patrick, who loves her so very much. I see that she is vivacious, and passionate about things, the boys are more laid back and subdued. Ellie is so dramatic and is the one..when daddy comes home she runs at him faster than lightening and jumps into his arms, and covers him with kisses, and is laughing, and so full of joy. The boys want to be hugged and cuddled like that as well, but they are much more shy, and withdrawn.

Ellie is really enjoying being a little sister, she loves her brothers so very much and tries to play with them always, and I love how they accommodate her, by allowing a "princess" or "mommy" or something in their story line of that days play.

Ellie loves to bake, play dress-up, and play tea, she is planning on inviting Daddy to a special tea this week-end, (We have begun setting this up), they are dressing up and meeting upstairs in her little bistro.

Ellie at two is such a joy, and I am incredibly thankful for her.

A Box of Happy

2008-11-14T09:31:00.000-08:00

When I was discussing giving thanks with Elijah, Noahy and Ellie, they specifically named their grandparents first Mimi and Grandadd, and Nina and Paw Paw, they very much love them. They can't wait to spend time with them. Elijah and Noah then said "school", and other family members aunts, uncles, cousins...But the thing that all of them mentioned was "dwawh" what Ellie says for coloring. They all love to color so much, in fact they do every day, maybe up to 4 times a day. They love art. I am so amazed that God has given them the love of Art, I hope that I can cultivate it in them. Each one of them is seriously very good artistically, it blows me away. I enjoy watching them "dwawh" Happiness is a bright box of crayola crayons.

Congrats to Carmi and Corree

2008-11-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

This is Coree and Josh it is so small because I stole the picture from face book. They have been together like 8 or 9 years, they are gaining on Pat and me. Congratulations on your first Wedding Anniversary! Love you!

Here is Carmi's engagement photo she looks so beautiful! Congrats Carmi!

Here is props to the photographer (since I posted her photo)

http://www.blog.claryphoto.com/ Her photography is beautiful!

Carmi and Corree were two very good friends of mine during college we were very close I practically lived with them, dropping in on them when ever I wanted, Corree and would work out together, Carmina and I would always have these deep conversations with each other, and Pat would tease them and they would just laugh and laugh! We would always eat together, and of course do Pine Street together. These girls were so fun, caring, encouraging we just always had a blast together. I met them through Pat, he was friends with one of their boyfriends, and then we just became this amazing cliche in College it was Jay and Carmi, Coree and Josh, Me and Pat, and Zartie and Matt, and sometimes this kid named Doug, and a girl named Erica, we just had such fun with each other. I love these girls like sisters. Well they went off to study abroad working on their graduate degrees and we lost contact. It is a shame... however, I am so happy to have found them yesterday. I mean these girls were even in my wedding that is how close we were!

Storage Palooza.....

2008-11-13T13:19:00.001-08:00

Check out what I got for Christmas from my parents....Are they not totally awesome they are to store all of our toys, which are everywhere we do not have a play room in our house as most families do and things were in baskets here there and everywhere. It is so nice to control the toy situation. I am hoping to get a play room eventually for now it is just a dream. Thank you Mom and Dad!!

As for the toys on top.... those are some of our favorite (special toys). The Noah's Ark was handcrafted by Pats maternal grandparents, Coodie and Grandpa. Grandpa has past and is

with the Lord now, and Coodie is going to be celebrating her first Wedding Anniversary soon. We love you Coodie. Congratulations!

The other toy is a big fish with a little Jonah that pops out, our neighbors Jane and Jerry gave this to the kids they love it.

I delight in the labour of love put into to these handmade toys, and the people who made them. The ark was origianally Patrick's when he was little and they refinished it and filled it up for our kids 2x2.

Jack and Jennifer tie the knot

2008-11-11T17:10:00.001-08:00

We had such a great time at my little brother Jack's wedding. They were married November 8th at St. John the Baptist, in St. Louis. My parents hosted the Rehearsal dinner at the St. Louis Fire House, and Imo's Pizza catered the event, with all the St. Louis style food you can eat, they had a Cardinals theme, they first met at the Cardinals game.

Elijah, Noah and Ellie did an amazing job I was so proud of them!

Wine for the whining

2008-11-11T10:58:00.000-08:00

Today's Soundtrack at the Lloyd House

Mooooommyyyyy, I want some juuuuuuice...

I don't wanna go to sleeeeeep...

I have to go to the baaathroooooom...

Ellie tooooook my toooooyyeee.....

Oh boy, I think I going to have to enjoy a glass of wine with Patrick this evening, and enjoy some grown up time.

Pneumonia Blues

2008-11-09T15:54:00.000-08:00

Our poor little buddy Noah is struggling with pneumonia right now, in the midst of being a ring bearer. He continues to be very lethargic, and wheezy, and tired. He has a nebulizer, and we are giving him medication to help control the symptoms of the pneumonia. Noah was born with RSV. and has struggled with breathing/Allergy problem's. When he was a baby they gave us a nebulizer, and we have pulled out from storage and he has had his aspirator treatments again. My heart hurts for him.

For the Beauty of the Earth

2008-11-02T21:01:00.000-08:00

Rockwoods Reservation is such an amazing blessing here it has a diverse amount of plant and animal life as well as springs, caves, and rock formations. Cool, moist, north facing ravines and lush creek bottoms contrasting with the nearby arid, rocky ridge tops, and south slopes. The terrain is reminiscent of the Ozark hills. Our trip was an incredible experience. Go out and enjoy it but hurry, it is in all of its glorious splendor. Here is a picture of the Tortoise and the fast little hare

Check out the view, amazing

finding little creatures on the trail

Up the hill to a Golden forest

scuffing through the crunchy leaves

Elijah chilling out above us

Family devotion time, it was the perfect spot

checking out the moss

Ellie was sizing up this log that had fallen on some rocks she totally wanted to go up

Mossy rock caves were so awesome

Looking up to the heavens

Running after our little darling whom is not afraid of anything

This is a huge boulder, that my sweetie scaled.

Such a clear, gorgeous day

This is view we saw coming back down from the cliff

Stack of rocks

The boys came across a little limestone bridge, left from the mining area of the trail. Of course they climbed up on it.

Yes more caves not discovered.

Little Ellie Faith leaning on a tree drenched in the rich golden sunshine, on crisp cool fall day. I felt Gods presence surrounding us it was amazing.

I love this pic of Elijah he leaned on the tree, and I looked over at him, and it was mesmerizing so I quickly shot his picture.

Family Picture in the midst of the excitement.

Investigating the caves, we had a blast scaling this cave and crawling around inside. It was so hot up here, but once around the caves entrances it was very cool. We ran into another hiker with his two little girls who took our pic. We also took their pic and emailed to them.

Mossy cool limestone wall

Halloween Party and Recital

2008-11-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

Batman Cody, batman Andrew, and Astronaut Elijah

Buzz, Astronaut, and Batman
Ellie with her cousins Grace and Joseph-obi one

I apologize for the video, the quality is poor, and Ellie was next to me, and I was trying to watch her at the same time.
Noah is in the first row on the left of snow white, and Sam is second in the first row. Elijah is the third row back in the center.

Pre-school pictures

2008-10-31T10:23:00.000-07:00

These pics were taken at Central Baptist Pre-school. Elijah and Noah's school, they absolutely love school and today I learned that their classmate Andrew is also going to attend Wildwood Christian school with our kids ha. At least that is my plan for them, we shall see what God's plan is. However, I thought it was really sweet how they icluded Ellie in their picture. They are so cute and growing so quickly. I am so proud of them, okay I know my head is swelling.

Happy 30th Nate

2008-10-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

Angelic Nate Happy Birthday we Love you!

Phantom of the Opera

2008-10-30T15:04:00.001-07:00

So hear we are at the Fall festival all dressed up. Ellie is are little angel her brothers lost her wings but she still had a Halo. Noah is Buzz Lightyear, originally he was going to be Elmo, then he reconsidered after children at pre-school said it was a "baby" costume. Elijah is our strong Astronaut, he loves space and we bought this costume for his birthday.

Pat and I went as the "Phantom and Christine" It is so much fun getting dressed up all I did was check out my closet, and we got away with just buying masks it worked out great.

We are part of the Masquerade scene here.

A story I will tell....

2008-10-29T22:55:00.001-07:00

I bought these story cards for Noah on our trip. He loves to tell me stories, he is funny, and extremely expressive with his gestures, and facial expressions, I could listen to him all day. We went to this very cute book store. www.littleshopofstories.com It had the most amazing kid books, and little ones running around so excited about reading. On the way home I was begging Pat to open my own children's bookstore someday.

I wanted to tell you about these cards they are so awesome you just pick a scene and put a story together it sparks their Literary skills and their creative writing. I love the art work. Of course I love anything by. www.eeboo.com We are really enjoying these through out our day.

30th Birthday Party for Natey

2008-10-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

Fighting extremely hard against super Liberals everywhere.

Me, in Metropolis, incognito...

and....of course Superman was also there
Then we went down to Atlanta and met Peggy, and saw Uncle Eddie and hung out with them at the Birthday Partay.
And our favorite flapjack lover.....Robbie. He is an awesome Chef by the way.

A we decided to form a band, Lauren and were the lead singers, and Ian played guitar, and Pat was all drums. We were the Damp Manties.

The Beautiful Smokies, in smoke. It was dreary and the hubby was not wanting to venture out.

Loadie and Robbie are expecting a little baby Stites, let us know what you are having!!! It was a-lot of fun staying with them! We love you guys, you have a lovely home, thanks for the "Southern Hospitality"

Oh and I didn't get any photos of Nate but Loadie posted some on Face book. We love you too Nate!

5th Birthday on an Indian Summer day

2008-10-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Family and Friends

A Moon Cake with craters, moon rocks, and glowy stars, 5 candles and Elijah the Astronaut.

1 Red Luft balloon
Wow -this Astronaut is Five!
More cool toys for boys

Great presentswith a lots of present helpers

"Shoot the moon"

Karen gave piggy back rides

Mimi smooches

Ellie giving Sarah a smooch

Babes holding babies

John enjoyed it most of all, he was really into hitting that pinata'

Ellie Faith thought this was fun

Nathan not giving the pinata a chance

Noah Knocking at the pinata

A smacking Sam

Joseph

Astronaut Elijah

Wow those little kids worked so hard for that candy.......and Jim comes to help pick up all the yummy goodies.

My Prayer for Elijah V (roman numeral)

2008-10-22T18:23:00.000-07:00

This photograph was taken of Elijah at 4 weeks old, he was such a big boy and weighed a whopping 15lbs.

Watch over your child Elijah, O Lord, as his days increase; bless and guide him wherever he may be. Strengthen him when he stands; comfort him when discouraged or sorrowful; raise him up if he falls; and in his heart may your peace which passes understanding abide all the days of his life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on your five year old child, .... , as he begins another year. Grant that he may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen his trust in your goodness all the days of his life; through you. May Patrick and I be the parents you would want us to be and set a firm foundation for him, and continually pray, for and exhibit Christ's love. May we teach him to love others as himself, and may you send him many friends who love you, and people he can share the gospel with Lord. Please keep the evil one away from this boy, and allow him to be a great leader starting at home. We thank you for this little boy who has been such an amazing blessing to Pat and me. We know he belongs to you, we ask that he would know you all the days of his life. We thank you for the wonderful five years you have given to us with this guy. I pray that you would grow his gifts and talents each day so he would know just how to serve you as he grows Lord. He is an amazing artist at five years. He loves music and dancing, he loves nature, and leading others. He enjoys learning, and reading, and playing like boys do, he is so rough and tumble. He is shy, but learning to speak to others I pray that you will help be a great communicator. He loves sharing toys with his brother, and he loves his sister, I pray that you would grow their relationship in to a loving graceful, peacful kind friendship. Lord I put him in your hands he is yours please may he after your own heart.

Ellie Faith's October book

2008-10-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

In search of the biggest, fattest, roundest pumpkin. I can not get enough of Tasha Tudor's books, or illustrations. I only wish I could draw like her.

tres negro y blanco

2008-10-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

Autumn days

2008-10-21T07:56:00.000-07:00

In autumn when the trees are brown The little leaves come tumbling down They do not make the slightest sound But lie so quietly on the ground Until the wind comes puffing by And blows them off towards the sky.

I love Fall, fresh air, crisp apple red days, and cozy nights with your favorite worn quilt. Indian Summer picnics, festivals, and bonfires. Beautiful leaves abound, apple cider, pumpkin butter and seeds, Sunsets a glow, children jumping in leaves, crisp corduroys, warm sweaters with a brisk breeze and sunlight touching your nose. It is amazing.

Boo at the Zoo

2008-10-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

Wagon rides, this is the Lloyd wagon, we use it so much it. It gets great mileage! ha The little ones like to jump in and out of. They enjoy getting out and peering at the animals. In this photo Ellie loves sitting on her big brothers lap, it is so funny, they do this at home all the time too. Here is the prettiest girl in the whole world. In front of some really beautiful flowers couldn't pass up this shot.

Monkey see, monkey want a ride. This chimp came all the way to the glass, gave Ellie a high five, and said "Hi" to us. It was hilarious. Only Noah didn't like Monkey so close.
Here is my little expression filled handsome "The little brother-big brother boy"

This girl is ready for fall, here she is enjoying the Zebras

Giraffes are so graceful. God is Awesome

These two genuinely love each other from the heart, and I feel so blessed that they get along so wonderfully, they are each others best friend (cousins Joseph and Sam are a close second). I pray as they grow they will continue this bond they have and mature their relationship as holding each other accountable and that they will always be there for each other.

Gotta Love those Red Birds

2008-10-16T21:28:00.001-07:00

Ellie with one of her favorite people, she has been smiling so funny like this lately. silly girl!
The boys paying close attention to the game

In hopes of a fly ball, for a little boys dream come true

Grandadd tickles

We had a-lot of fun, it was a night of musical laps, and beautiful weather and great fellowship.

Most of you know we love the red birds, and if it were in our budget, well we would probably have season tickets!

A time for panicking....yes, I panicked the whole time Ellie was up on Grandadd's shoulders she just does not fear anything, and would not even hold on at times, it makes my palms sweat just thinking about it again.

Wee ones on a wall

2008-10-14T22:59:00.001-07:00

Outdoor Playtime!! At one of our favorite places, Powder Valley.

We can spend hours there you should go! So many great things to do!

I took so many great photos of the kiddo's but I took them in RAW, so I cannot share them with you. I will put up more in Jpeg, sometime soon.

Heart and Soles

2008-10-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

Check out Elijah's shy little video at the bottom.

Over the summer I read the this article in the paper, how you can help others so far away, when you are struggling yourself. It was a shoe collection of various kinds for people who are broken and hurting just like us, only world's apart, where resources are scarce. It pulled on my heartstrings and I teared up, and prayed for them, and that is all I did. I was talking to a friend and telling them about the collection, and saying something like....we really should do something like this where these people are just in survival mode trying to think of logistics to get a glass of water to drink. Then it happened...we both snickered and said we are just to busy, that we have our plates full, with our own daily struggles. The selfishness over took me, and that was that.

It has always been important to Pat and I to educate our children, and share with them the struggles of this life, so they may pray and develop a heart for Gods people that weak for weak, or strong for strong we can come along others and help them in their weakness.

Elijah came to me, after talking together, and said "What can I do?" I know I am a little boy, how can I help others, and I said by "praying for them." He said "I heard you on the phone, we really should go through all of our shoes mommy, they don't even fit in the cubby." My heart was broken, and restored all at the same time. I said "what a great Idea buddy" Let's send shoes to Kenya."

You can make a difference in peoples lives

A simple pair of shoes will not only show that someone loves them and cares about them.

It is such a practical way to serve as protection from cuts, scrapes, sore infections, bruising, Life threatening diseases, and many many parasites, which can bring on severe illness, and serious retardation. Which is all contracted though their feet.

Elijah is going to be collecting gently used and new shoes, and we will be shipping them off to be distributed. You may drop your shoes off at our house, or our Church:

Heritage Presbyterian Church, 4000 Alt Road, Eureka, MO 63025

Elijah would also like to collect shoes at:

Grandadd's Chuch- St. James Evangelical

Stony Hill, MO

Here are some Statistics on the Suffering in that Area

- 1.1 billion people do not have access to safe water supply. They walk for miles with out shoes.

- 2.4 billion people do not have access to improved sanitation.

- Less than 1% of the entire world's water is fresh water that is accessible fresh water, suitable for human use.

- A person can live about a month without food but only about a week without water.

- More than 200 million hours are spent each day by women and female children walking to collect water from distant, often polluted sources with out shoes.

- The average American individual uses between 100 and 176 gallons of water each day.

- The average African family uses about 5 gallons of water each day.

- Approximately 60-70% of the rural population in underdeveloped countries does not have access to a safe and convenient water source nor a satisfactory means of waste disposal.

- More than 6000 children die each day from diseases related to drinking contaminated water, improper sanitation, and poor hygiene

- 80% of illnesses are related to the lack of clean water and poor sanitation.

If you have any questions please ask me, and I will get back to you! 314 398 8211

P.s.- He didn't want to leave out the Patrick.

Middle Child Syndrome?

2008-10-03T05:48:00.001-07:00

Or do you all.... when visiting a newborn baby at the hospital, fit a glove on your head and blow it up with your nose???

Patrick, you are one crazy guy, but I love you!

More Baby

2008-10-03T05:37:00.000-07:00

Elijah and Noah get to hold baby Gabby! yay!!

She did not want to wake-up. My sister said she is the calmist baby ever.

Sweet little puff of pink

This girl is drawn to rocking chairs, she is such a little mommy.

Ellie kissing baby Gabby's head

Fluffy Kisses

2008-09-27T19:58:00.001-07:00

Ellie gave this little girl puppy her seal of approval, with a kiss.
She is soo cute! My sister Robin found this puppy at her Apartment complex, and it did not have a home. She took it in wanting to keep her, but I have persuaded her to give it to someone I know who would love it. My sister just had a brand new baby, so I told her it would be great to focus just on Gabriella, instead of also training a puppy too. She is so adorable she made my sister not even think clearly.

Another Beautiful Babe

2008-09-26T15:42:00.001-07:00

Sweet baby Gabriella, after a distressed emergency C-section, put in Nana's arm immediately.
Gabriella weighed 8lbs. 3 oz. She is doing well- now, and my sister Robin is doing better, there were some minor complications. She had to go under, so Gabriella came to the room for my mother to hold, and then off to the Nursery. Robin was out for a few hours and then in recovery for an hour and half, and then they brought her up to look at Gabriella. Ivan her father was soo excited he was making phone calls like crazy and speaking in Spanish. The children were saying "Ocho.tres" At the end of the night.

Noah concerned about his new cousin.

Through the looking glass....here are the kids in adoration of their new baby (cousin) Gabriella.

Elijah was in tears, we were not allowed to hold the baby, she had to stay in the nursery. He loves his new baby cousin.

I had a dream....

2008-09-19T12:36:00.001-07:00

Okay the video was too lame for Lauren so I changed it. ha

We saw Priscilla Ahn in concert at the Pageant it was wonderful. Her music is amazing, very serene and fun. We had a wonderful date night we love to get out and go to concerts. Is her voice not so beautiful??

The lyrics

I was a little girl alone in my little world who dreamed of a little home for me. I played pretend between the trees, and fed my houseguests bark and leaves, and laughed in my pretty bed of green. I had a dream That I could fly from the highest swing. I had a dream. Long walks in the dark through woods grown behind the park, I asked God who I'm supposed to be. The stars smiled down on me, God answered in silent reverie. I said a prayer and fell asleep. I had a dream That I could fly from the highest tree. I had a dream. Now I'm old and feeling grey. I don't know what's left to say about this life I'm willing to leave. I lived it full and I lived it well, there's many tales I've lived to tell. I'm ready now, I'm ready now, I'm ready now to fly from the highest wing. I had a dream

Chocolate is Amazing

2008-09-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I get a package today and open it up and......My dear hubby has renewed our phone contract after two years. I am not one who really cares about this kind of thing. However, I did see this commercial and thought that is soo cute. I would love one of those. I never told Pat about my desire to have a chocolate but he that is what he ordered for me. He even ordered it in Wine red, (my favorite color) He is so thoughtful. I love him, even when he doesn't surprise me with goodies.

Baby Sarah is here!

2008-09-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

Baby girl Blanner is here, she weighed 7lbs and 9oz. She has her mother's mouth, and dark features like her dad. She looks a-lot like her siblings, Joseph, Sam and Grace.
Mimi Joy (this is her 7th)

Cousin cuddles, Elijah kept asking to hold baby Sarah, he could not get enough. He loves babies! He kept asking if we could go back when we came home.

Elijah in awe of the baby again, and Uncle Pat

I have had to pray often to not get baby fever, It is just so amazing having a sweet little cuddle in your arms.

Enjoying my time with baby Sarah, here is her proud daddy.

Grandadd and his grands, it was a full house.

Knit a Gogo

2008-09-09T13:37:00.001-07:00

Here is the sweet little knitted sweater and hat for my new niece Gabriella who will be making her debut sometime late September. As most of you know, I am a Jack-of-all of trades, and a master of none. So I can just about do anything, However, I never bring, great detail, or perfectionism, or grace to the items, I make....

It has been a great blessing, to be creative, but also a great deal of distress figuring out just what the Lord wants me to do. Anyway, here is the little knitted outfit I started for our new niece, of course I had to have help to make it look polished. Thank you for the help you know who you are! I would love everyone to pray for this little one, who will not be raised by christian parents. Please pray for her salvation. I am excited that I can be salt and light to this little one.

Flower girl frock

2008-09-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

Here is Ellie's newest dress, it is for my brothers wedding, as you can see, I am trying to sew the flowers on her dress per the bride. We are very excited for you Uncle Jack and love you! I will also be making a halo of flowers for her pretty little head. BTY: The beautiful flowers are from my hot hubbie.

All the little Handprints

2008-09-05T14:58:00.001-07:00

Here is the master bedroom, and as you can see the kiddo's love to pile up on our bed and leave their mark on the mirror. Hand prints everywhere, I used to get so annoyed that I had to clean the mirror so often, now I have grown to love seeing their little tiny prints.

Gallery of Babes

2008-09-05T14:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a gallery of pictures of the little babes, that Pat and I see upon waking, and going to sleep. Each photo of the little one's are 4-6 month's old range. It is one of favorite cherished items. As most of you know I love little one's but it is the infancy stage I just adore!

Elijah, Noah and Ellie

Saying good-bye to babies

2008-09-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

Our first day at Central Baptist Pre-school M-W-F!

Relieving pre-school jitters

Elijah Patrick smiling about his first day

Noah Jamieson "Mr. Happy" on his 1st day

Breakfast of Monkey's

In their new classroom putting up a star with Mrs. Mertz, and new friend Cody, Ellie wanting to start pre-school already!

Today was the first day of pre-school, and I was sobbing like a baby. I did everything to get the boys ready to go on their first day, we prayed before, we acted it out, we got to meet the teachers, we visited their classroom, we continued to talk, and talk about it. So how did I not get ready??? They were like okay Mommy, you can go now, take Ellie, and we will see you later. When Ellie and I got to the car it started. I tried to stop, take a deep breath, and think of the blessings, for nurturing them and teaching them the social skills necessary to thrive in a classroom setting.
I knew that I had come equipped with tissues, dark glasses and some emergency dark chocolate in case I had a meltdown in the school parking lot. Which of course I did.....saying goodbye to my babies for the first time.

Almond Branches in Bloom circa 1890

2008-09-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite Van Gogh pieces, I think it is because it is a tree, and I am completely infatuated with trees. Not necessarily wanting to know about the analytical parts of a tree, and every trees species and stuff but more a of a big picture thing. Oh, I love them, I love to be near them. Walking outside and looking how God formed each leaf different than the next. They provide us comfort, shade, relaxation. They are so beautiful. I think the branches represent our walk in Christ each one of them twisty and bumpy, and some strong and some weak, some of them brake and bend under pressure, but each one of them God provides for.

I love this picture, anyway I was considering ordering it for my living room, to go above the couch, but it being Van Gogh, I wasn't sure. What do you think?

Congratulations Jeff and Monica

2008-09-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

Patrick's cousin Jeff was married last month to Monica, the wedding was fun for the kiddo's, it happened a couple of weeks after I broke a disc in my back. It was the first time I had gotten out since. Here is my little Beautiful Babe enjoying the Delicious dinner served!

Summer Salads

2008-09-02T08:06:00.000-07:00

This summer we have been enjoying such amazing salads for dinner. Thankfully, we are given fresh grown tomatoes from my parents. Patrick asks "Honey what's for dinner?" I grab a big bowl and throw all the salad fixings I have and...viola! My biggest addiction is Feta cheese, I can not get enough, and sometimes on a splurge I will pick up some sun dried tomatoes. I am going to miss our fresh tomatoes soon. It will be fun to start making stews, and chili's and roasts again too! Come over and have dinner with us sometime! I always find something to throw together!

Praise him all his Angels

2008-08-22T15:06:00.001-07:00

This is my favorite Angel pic!

2 Samuel 22:47

2008-08-22T14:51:00.000-07:00

Ellie grabs the boys hands to hold them.
Three in a row

summer fun

head, shoulders, knees, and Toes!!!!!

I am sooo blessed! And thankful that Ellie's dates have to go through her Big Brothers who adore her.
“The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock, and exalted be my God, the rock of my salvation,."

The kids had a blast on this rock, and I was really comforted by the fact that Elijah, had remembered that his God was the rock of his salvation. As he told me this verse as we were walking by it. We love playing in all the parks around here.

Little Lady

2008-08-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here is my 22 month old looking like such a big girl, The kids and I went to Rockwood Reservations as we do most often but today we took a few pics. Oh, and yes those are my pearls the little girly girl did want to wear them today, it makes me snicker, with those curls she looks like....Lucy from "I love Lucy".

Breaking the Bread

2008-07-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

Cheers!

I could make something yummy to go on my dragon dessert plates!

Here is my favorite Amazing Dragon platter, I got for my 26th birthday
I love an asian influence in my decor

Here is our quaint little dining room set(with a Vincent van Gogh touch), come eat with us...

Dear Loved Ones,

Although our home is not Elizabeth Bennett's: Pemberley it is however, Elizabeth Lloyd's and Patrick and I would like to open up our home to you. We want to fellowship with you, it is our fervent prayer to develop a deeper relationship with all of you. We want to open up our home and have a dinner together, and enjoy your company. Please if you are reading this blog entry...please let us know when it would be convenient for your family to come and dine with us. We love you all, and have a desire to break bread with you and to deepen our relationship with you. In saying that Patrick and I just bought a little bistro counter height table so we may fellowship with you all. The table we had before was not safe, (my amazing garage sale find) Just wait until you come over, I will show you all of my Goodwill, garage sale finds!!!

Blog, Blog Where art thou Blog?

2008-07-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

So I have been completely consumed with my new job. Working every moment I have free time, has taken away all of my blogging time, and at my job I do not have any access to a computer at all. Going cold turkey from my computer has been tough, not to mention the separation anxiety I feel from my children.

There have been so many things I have wanted to blog about Including:

My dear sweet Erin, her marriage, and wedding to amazing Michael whom we adore. So excited about our camping trip in the future dear friends.

Our NEW mini van!! yes!! Excitement!! I LOVE MINI VANS!!! What a huge blessing this is for our family!!

How like everyone I know right now is pregnant, and I not about to join that club right now.

Wanting to go back to Nursing School, and how I want our Pastor's wife to go into it with me.

SOOO excited that the Clubb's house is almost finished, and how I want to sit and cry with Karen, over some of the frustration.

How Patrick has ripped out our shower, and now we don't have one downstairs!

How working is really hard, being away from my children and not at all what I had planned for MY life.

How Patrick and I have been enjoying our patio this summer with twinkle lights and a light dinner, and or drink before bed time.

How I want to for some zany reason go to the: New kids on the block concert

RETAIL HORRORS

God's great graces, and how I need his grace to go to work

Our terrible raccoon issues

How I am so thrilled and blessed that my children get great quality time with Mimi and Grandadd and their love for us to serve us this way.

My husband and I just turned Eight years Old, last month and it went by so fast I don't even think we did anything.

I am enjoying teaching Sunday School to the primary class at church

Put Me In Coach

2008-07-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

A Baseball Cheerleader! Go Wijah!!

There is a hustling #6 (Elijah) running to first, after contemplating after hitting the ball.

Go Red Sox!!

Okay, so along with Patrick's day job, he also is a Head coach of a t-ball team every Saturday. He is so gifted with these kid's Pat is patient, and enjoys kids so much. He is coaching Elijah's first t-ball experience and Elijah just LOVES it! Also Noah gets to play a little, and our nephews are also on the team so it makes it super fun for everyone. With me working every Saturday, I have not gotten a chance to really enjoy the experience (you know the giggling, hysterically) etc. Pat really is enjoying himself, and ideally we would enjoy season tickets to the Cardinals, we are enjoying the Red Sox, for now.

Bright, Bright Sunshiney Day

2008-07-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

Ellie Faith just had to play in the flowers. What can make you happier than a field of God's beautiful sunny flowers, of course watching my blessing of a daughter play in the sunshine adoring the flowers. We had a beautiful picnic with my parents, Paw paw and Nina, after church on Sunday, where we shared an amazing lunch and strolled in the park, and went to the sunflower patch. As I lay in pain now, I realize just how blessed I am to get out and about, and to spend such time with people I love. It really is to bad, that sometimes we don't see it, until we weather a little suffering.

Back Injury Blues

2008-07-10T22:31:00.000-07:00

Monday night I had to rush off to the Emergency room, after spending the day at Six flags with my family, I didn't something HORRIBLE to my back. So after a night in the E.R. and x-ray's, I was sent home with bed rest for a week, and I have not been able to stand up yet since hurting my back. I see a specialist Monday. Please pray that I will be healed. I am on heavy medications, and must rest for awhile. So I am out of work, which will also be a burden to our family.

Flooring Frustration

2008-07-10T22:23:00.000-07:00

Our best friends the Clubbs, have recently bought a new home and our completely gutting it out, and remodeling. They are extremely talented and blessed with the gift of home repairs, and have really taken on a huge burden. I am soo thrilled because they are going to be so close to us. However, they have had such a nightmare with a flooring company, please pray for the Clubbs that they would resolve this quickly, and they would get to move in to their beautiful new home, it has been long labourous hours, and they miss quality family time. I hope that it is not much longer dear friends, and we will be enjoying that patio together very soon.

Escentually Exhausted

2008-06-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

Yes I am..... Radiant and Real at Bare Escentuals, showing everyone the #1 mineral make-up, that leaves your skin, looking just like that....your skin!

I have newly started working again, which has really proved to be a very difficult thing for me. It is fun to get back out there and work to help provide for my family, however, I really was not ready, to leave my little one's, and everything is in complete disarray at my home.

I have had counseling on the subject from Pastor Baker, and prayed with him, and I actually picked up a book called Total Truth by Nancy Pearcey to help my perspective, on Materialism, and Consumerism, that I am struggling with. I am very fascinated with the book. I apologize that this blog entry is going in so many directions, it is late. HA! My general point at the beginning,is....I have started a new job, having worked a couple of weeks now. Two days ago we actually set up our counter space, and I worked about 60 hours!!! I am EXHAUSTED! I miss my children, and really hope that God will soon have a different plan in provision for our family.

Bare Escentuals is a great make-up, and I really enjoy making other women feel better about themselves, please pray that I will touch these women, through the Holy Spirit and I will be salt and light...even in this situation.

Measuring up at the Children's Zoo

2008-05-20T12:39:00.001-07:00

Mama is as tall as a Llama

We are not sure what measures up with Daddy.

Elijah is the size of a Pygmy goat, Noah is the size of a River Otter, and Ellie measures up with a Koala bear! Wow my little goat, otter, and koala bears are growing so fast! At Christmas we are blessed with a gift of Membership to the Zoo! Yeah so we made our way in this gorgeous weather, and appreciated the sights and sounds of it all. We are very passionate about the Zoo, and love it so very much.

Mother's Day Meal

2008-05-20T00:14:00.000-07:00

I was blessed with time to snuggle my cuddle bugs, in bed, I like this painting by Cassatt. However, I think I looked a-lot happier than this mom. It looks as though her family made her breakfast in bed too. Maybe, she didn't get the card that plays music or something.

Mother's Day is always very special, and this year Elijah, Noah and Ellie helped Daddy prepare a wonderful spread of Delicious treats for me. How thoughtful, now keep in mind Noah had severe allergies, and had swollen eyes, they were actually swollen completely shut. He is definitely my most sensitive little love. I just want to Praise my hubby for taking initiative, and cooking with the kid's in the kitchen. What a labour of love. It was really cute because I could here them in there cooking, and Patrick telling them not to tell me yet, and Elijah begging to tell me what was happening in the kitchen. hmmm.... So finally, he comes in very excited full of expression and says we have a surprise for you in the kitchen, but it is a secret. For mother's Day, I also received a card that played music. Noah picked it out and still asks me if I like the card he picked out for me. He is so thoughtful.

Close-ups of my crew at the Zoo

2008-05-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

Pretty as posies

2008-05-08T10:50:00.001-07:00

little girls holding hands, and becoming friends. Another little Blanner girl is joining us this Septmeber.

Croquet Sunday

2008-05-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Winslow Homer Oil interpretation of the classic game

So much easier using these mallets rather a flamingo
(one of the perks from moving from Florida to Missouri)

Here are the guys playing 6 wicket

eventually the ladies played and it didn't seem like to much of a throwback

And the guys came to rest upon the blanket

St. James

This past Sunday, was a special time for our family. We went out to Stony Hill, and spent a relaxing week-end with Tom and Sally. The fellowship was fantastic, as was the weather. We had a great time as we celebrated Tom's installation service. St. James is such an adorably cute little picturesque church. We also had a great time spending the time with cousins, and Andy & Anne (pics compliments of A-team) also spent the night with us. Tom and Sally were blessed with receiving an abundance of pork, so our menu looked like this: First nights Dinner, pork steaks, Lunch; Sausage Pie, and second nights dinner; ribs, and pork cutlets!

Before the evening service started we played a very scenic game of croquet, it was so much fun. It really was a sight to see, I came out of the house, looking out upon the lawn were the ladies spread out on a white blanket with adorable children scattered all around them, like that of an Édouard Manet . The guys were playing a game and truly felt like I had stepped back in time, and was possibly in a Jane Austen novel!! I know how exciting!! Well I found out I am way too aggressive for croquet, it is true -easy does it. I think I have the precision down, but I would really kill the ball. We played the traditionally "American Croquet" with six wickets.

Something interesting a wee bit historical: Wimbledon held croquet championships, seven years before lawn tennis was played there. The All England Croquet Club setting of ten wickets and two pegs was used. This was in 1807. I really would like to play again this spring.

Make a date visit Wine Country come and worship at St. James, my in-laws would love to have you come to their church!

Derek Webb and Sandra McCracken

2008-05-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

So this friday, Derek Webb and Sandra McCracken will be in town. They are playing friday night at the The Journey, Tower Grove Park at 7:30. I think it is going to be a great show. I however, don't think we can make it, but I would LOVE to go.

Little Birds

2008-05-06T22:17:00.001-07:00

We are really enjoying this gorgeous weather, and getting out and playing in the fresh, sweet air. I will not be able to stay at home with my beauties for much longer, so I am soaking in my precious times with these little babes. I feel so fortunate to have had four years with Elijah, three with Noah, and one with my wonderful little girl. God has been so good to us. We are praying that this will be a very short season, that I will be back home sharing the motherly joy and not so much joy that sometimes come with being a mommy to three, four and under. Anyway we pulled out our Cd's today for some music time, and this is what we are listening to.....I love this Cd. "You are my little Bird" Elizabeth Mitchell. check it out on Amazon. Also we love "Catch the moon, Raffi, They might be giants, seeds cd's, and our Jazz for kids.

Time after time

2008-04-27T23:03:00.000-07:00

Reflecting

Lisa was a great friend of mine in grade school, junior high, and the beginning of High school. We enjoyed each other's company so very much, and would have so much fun laughing, and being outrageously silly together. We enjoyed talking about the same things, we had mutual knowledge of things, she was seriously sarcastic, and I loved it! We would have fun teasing, and encouraging each other, and really just got along so wonderfully together. I definitely consider her one my best of Friends growing up. She and I had an unwavering friendship where we were extremely loyal, and truly loved each other. However, we also could hang out with other people and cultivate friendships with others and when we hung out with each other again we never missed a beat. Our taste in music, fashion, sports, was always very similar, except of course our taste in boys and other friends. Other than that we had a great time. I loved Lisa's family, and would often attend church with them, and after, we would have to indulge in (oh so famous) St. Louis "gooey butter cake" mmmm... Lisa's house was definitely where I spent most of my time it was a magnet house, where she had fun parties, and we would watch movies, and dance like fools shoot hoops, and have awesome pool parties in her indoor pool. I suffered from serious migraines at the time and Lisa would play nurse to me by throwing a wash cloth, and laying next to me until I felt better. We spent many nights giggling, and being completely real with each other. We would exchange advice and share the hardships of junior high, and our parents. Her parents wanted her to attend, a private upscale catholic school, and as heart broken as she was-she went away, I also remember shedding many tears over the oh so dramatic, situation. Lisa remained miserable at the school, and I had settled into finding new friendships, mostly with the kind of girls she was not attracted to . Lisa was humble, kind and very sweet, and I settled into a group that was sociably perfect. We still would hang out but not nearly as often, I had many friendships since Lisa, but never quite as close as the one I had with her. She eventually came back to our school. I was stoked but we never had a class together, I went to the nerdy part of the hall, in A.P chem, and AP chem lab, and A.P. Biology and AP physics, and I think Lisa had more of strong liking to literature and etc. and she spent all her time with a girl who was a quiet, SO quiet, nice, but very closed and extremely analytical. Unfortunately we slowly drifted. I always had a place in my heart for her, and have often thought, and prayed for her. We had lost complete contact with each other. Today, excitingly we met and talked and shared so many of our endeavors. It was great to reminisce and share stories, and share our new lives with each other. I went away thanking God for this wonderful experience, and can't wait for our next meeting. The most awesome thing about this is she is best-friends with my other close friend. I can't wait to catch up with Melanie too!

Dancing with the Mommies

2008-04-18T22:51:00.000-07:00

This week by the grace of God, I found myself on the treadmill every day! Yeah! I really appreciate those times where I can go, and rejuvenate! And I did get a chance to use weights three times this week, how amazing! I am aching, and feeling so very sore, I love that feeling. I stopped exercising completely due to hurting my back. I am still nursing a cracked tailbone...ouchy! My doctor insisted I get back and work out, and I am sooo glad he did! I am feeling so great!! I also had an AMAZING dance class this week! Where we did cha-cha, rumba, even a grease choreography, (try not to laugh at that part) and all kinds of fun, exciting dances. I hope I catch on soon.

This Cake is Dino-Mite!!

2008-04-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

Stegosaurus Stan

So what do three year old little boys like??? Dinosaurs!!! And if you are a Lloyd kid.....CAKE!! So for The "Celebration of Noah" You put them together, and you get a roaring delicous Surprise! It is quite Dino-mite! "Where are we going??? (Noah's Party) (That was in my head from an episode of Dora the Explorer). Except they were going to Tico's party. So that is what we have been singing all week, because the excitement has been building and building!! Okay so you are asking isn't Noah's Birthday in January??? hhmmm? Well how do I say this without sounding like such a stinky parent!! We were all sick, and then sick again, and then I threw my back out, so poor little middle child Noah didn't have a birthday celebration. I feel so bad for him. We are going to make it up to him tomorrow!! We are going to a park, and are grilling, and going to have so much FUN!! With our family!

If you ask Noah, he knows many many dinosaurs and can tell you about them, you may not be able to understand, but he is amazingly smart! Also please pray for the Lloyd family, we are trying to make some very BIG decisions right now, and need your prayer.

And if anyone needs a cake, I would gladly make one for you for a really small fee, I love to do it. I am not a professional or anything it just brings me pleasure! Let me know if you would like a cake!

Erin with Ellie

2008-04-13T21:51:00.000-07:00

Here we are at Erin's shower. We had such a great time. Ellie was enjoying the spread of delicious treats and the very cute baby Lucy. We had an awesome time fellow shipping, and we are SO excited about the wedding dear friend. It was such a great time with all my dear sweet friends whom I love with all my heart! Thank you to Tina, and Marilyn who made it so fun!

It was a joy to carry the party on all day with you all!

My little Pink Hyacinth

2008-04-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

The fragrance from these beauties were amazing! Ellie was enchanted by all the flowers.

Little Lambs

2008-04-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. Isaiah 40:11

Ellie is squealing with delight in this photo.

Spring Botanicals

2008-04-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Brothers and Best Friends
Lunch Pals

Breathtaking Beauty

2008-04-05T23:34:00.000-07:00

Here is my Elizabeth Faith at 16 months, what a sweet, and loveable little girl.

This week I am going to......

blog more about her, I just wanted to post this adorable pic.