I didn't even see it coming.

Wednesday afternoon.
Everyone has eaten supper.
Emmett is literally cackling at Ellie Kate.
She sits at the table and he pulls her out of her chair and takes off running hoping to be chased. Thankfully, she thinks this is funny, too.
Church starts at 6:30.
I freshen up my makeup using much concealer. I expect National Geographic to show up wanting to do a special on the alien life form that has invaded my face. Somehow my skin forgot that we've made it thru the teen years (as well as past our twenties). Even Ellie Kate took notice of the "boo-boo" on my face. I don't know how I've avoided wearing a bandaid over it. At our house they heal, well, everything.
Jack (bless his little heart) has fallen asleep in his jumparoo.
I lay him in my bed so he can catch a quick nap. It's about 5:30 at this point.
I've got the diaper bag ready complete with juice cups.
The clock speeds up as it approaches 6:00. Time always disappears when I'm trying to get myself and three kids ready.
I've cleaned up the kitchen.
The diaper bag is on the couch. I try to have everything that I need to take with me waiting by the door. This includes mobile children.
And then it begins.
I'm not even sure what to call it.
I tell Ellie Kate to find her flip-flops. She reports back saying that they are nowhere to be found.
I catch a moving Emmett and wrestle him to the ground.
I wipe off all of the stains on his face. As previously mentioned, everyone has had supper.
He needs a fresh diaper.
With him lying flat I could change his diaper in seconds, but where's the fun in that?
I'm reminded by his resistance that having his diaper changed is a form of abuse.
Somehow he nearly escapes. I grab his legs and pull him back toward me. His rear is dragging on the floor yet he is fully twisted around from the waist up, grabbing at the carpet. My little contortionist. I unwind his middle section and complete the diaper change even slipping some shorts on him. I then marvel at my skills as I wrestle the little guy and successfully put sandals that buckle on his feet.
I realize that the background music is not music at all. It's Jack, awake and crying.
I stick my head into Ellie Kate's room and spot a solitary flip flop by the wall.
She is in the kitchen digging thru her backpack to retreat her princess pen and notepad.
I call for her to return to her room.
I tell her to look for the lost flip flop. She lacks enthusiasm.
I return to the living room and find Emmett seated in the rocking chair. He has (as always) gotten his cup out of the diaper bag and is drinking his "duice". Emmett's juice drinking method is to turn up his cup and empty it of every single drop of liquid. I haven't packed extra juice for him so I take his cup away and place it once again in the diaper bag.
He is appalled. He cuts his eyes at me, grunting in protest saying, "Duice, duice!"
If ever there is an appropriate time to reprimand your mommy, well, Emmett believes it is now. "NoooooooNooo. Duiceduiceduice."
"No, man. You can have your juice when we get to church."
With that, I tell Jack that Mommy is doing her best to get to him. Just another minute, please.
I return to Ellie Kate's room and find her seated on the floor reading a book.
"Ellie Kate did you find your flip flop?"
"Um...no." She returns to her literature.
I point to the closet and ask her to hand me her pink bag. She cuts her eyes at me and pretends that I'm speaking to her invisible friend. I repeat my request. She reaches over and pulls the bag out. I tell her to put the book down for now and help me.
At this point attitude oozes as she slowly lets the book fall out of her hand and to the floor from her now standing position.
"Oh, no ma'am. Come over here."
She receives a quick pop on the rear and a reprimand.
I search her pink bag and am unable to locate the missing flip flop.
I logically say,"You can just wear your pink sandals." Apparently, Ellie Kate heard me say,"We are going to remove all of your toenails" because her posture sags and she begins to dissolve into tears. I make my firm tone a little firmer and let her know that she will wear her sandals.
"Mama, you just hurt my feelings.(...sobs...sobs.) You won't let me help you."
I respond,"Ellie Kate I told you to come in here and find your other flip flop and you came and sat on the floor and read a book."
"But Mama, I love books!"(sob...sob)
I respond,"Baby, I know you do, but when I tell you to do something that's what you need to do. Now lets get these sandals on. We've got to go."
Like salt on a slug she continues to rapidly dissolve.
Meanwhile, in the background I can hear two things: Jack crying and Emmett protesting.
I put the pink sandals on the little girl with crocodile tears rolling down her face. She manages to continue talking thru her tears.
I walk into my room and scoop Jack up. I take him into the den and change his diaper. I wonder when the angry foreign exchange student arrived as Emmett continues to jabber and be annoyed by me.
Ellie Kate is once again retrieving her notebook and pen. She continues to cry.
I begin to shuffle us to the door.
"These shoes frwustrate me, Mama!"
"I know. I know. Come on let's get in the car."
Jack is on my hip. The diaper bag and my purse are slung over my shoulder. Emmett balances two dinosaurs in one hand and reaches up with his free hand to be helped down the stairs. Each step is numbered. There are six in all.
I look back over my shoulder and the little girl with the frustrating sandals is standing at the top of the six stairs.
"Come on, Ellie Kate. You are okay."
She joins us at the van and climbs back to her seat while I put Jack in his car seat.
I walk around to the passenger side and catch Emmett just before he crawls to the back with his sister and out of my reach. I notice that he has a peanut butter hand print on his back that happens to be the same size as Ellie Kate's hand. I don't even consider changing his shirt. After all peanut butter smells good.
I hook him in his car seat. He is saying "sinosaur" over and over. I half way climb into the van and see a dinosaur on the floor. I retrieve the dinosaur and hand it to him.
I walk around and climb into the driver's side. As Ellie Kate cries, Emmett repeats "sinosaur" over and over.
I look back and see the very dinosaur that I had just handed to him on the floor. I once again retrieve the thing and put it in his little hand. As I'm turning around, out of the corner of my eye I see Emmett "accidentally" drop the dinosaur again.
I'm not playing this game.
As we are pulling out of the driveway, Ellie Kate says while crying,"My eye hurts. It hurts because I can't stop thinking about it."
I remind her that she can go into the Bible study with me tonight and ask her Daddy to pray for it.
We drive less than two miles to church.
As we turn into the church parking lot Emmett begins angry crying and arching his back in protest. This is not always his response to church, but apparently he's decided that he doesn't want to go tonight.
I pull into a space marked "SENIORS" because it's near the door.
Thankfully a sweet lady pulls in behind me and asks if I could use some help. I quickly explain that we are in simultaneous meltdown mode and my turn is coming up. She graciously takes Jack from me as I begin to unbuckle my less than happy toddler.
He begins to flail, kicking his sister.
The five-year-old with the frustrating sandals and hurting eye, does not take kindly to this.
We enter the foyer.
The Kilpatricks have arrived.
I make light of the fact that my two oldest are nearly distraught.
We walk thru the sanctuary to get to the nursery.
I smile around clinched teeth.
The nursery worker (Ms. C) takes Jack from the kind lady that came to my rescue. I make a quick note to include said kind lady in my will and I thank her for her help.
I put Emmett down and he morphs into a leach and attaches to my leg.
Ellie Kate sits down with the twin little boys in the nursery and starts asking them how to spell their names. She wants to write this in her notebook.
I sit in a rocking chair and look for something, anything to draw Emmett's attention away from me. Jack decides to follow suit with the crying.
Ms. C tells me that the last time Emmett was like this, he calmed down shortly after I left. I ask her if she wants me to just stay in the nursery or try to leave. We decide that Ellie Kate and I will exit and wait outside of the door for a few seconds to see if Emmett calms down.
We bolt out of the door.
As we stand with our backs against the wall, Ellie Kate whispers,"Don't say a word."
Sure enough, in less than three minutes Emmett quits crying.
Ellie Kate and I enter the sanctuary and find a seat near the back. She raises her hand to request prayer for her eye and then chickens out when Ross calls on her. She asks me to make the request for her and I do. Ross also tells everyone that it's her birthday. We sing to her and then continue with our prayer meeting/Bible study.
I shoosh Ellie Kate and then remind her 5+ times that she has been shooshed.
I'm somewhat surprised as I sit in the sanctuary that I'm not completely frayed. I realize that in recent prayers I asked for patience. It becomes obvious to me that the Lord is allowing opportunities for me to grow in this area.
I thank Him for my babies.
The return home goes much more smoothly.
My children's plot to take over Mommy has been averted...for today, but I have to say that I didn't even see this one coming.
Sneeky little people... that I love dearly.

Ellie Kate: 5

Maybe this will cut down on the confusion.

We've always told Ellie Kate,"When you're five you'll go to kindergarten."

Well, she's been in school for a few weeks now, but is just turning five today.

She was also confused by the fact that we celebrated her's and Emmett's birthdays this past weekend. I think she didn't know how to celebrate being five when she was still four.

We had a party at my parents' home. I walked into the den at about seven that morning and Ellie Kate was already up. She was sitting in the rocking chair. She asked me,"When are we going to get this party started?"

Anyway, now she is officially the big 0-5.

Last night before she went to bed, we prayed for one of her friends at school who "broke her eye." Then she expressed to me (almost in tears) just how badly she wanted to be a "bus rider" and not a "car rider". Big stuff.

Of course, one of her first questions this morning was,"When will I turn six?"

All I could think was,"Soon enough. Soon enough."

I did something this morning that I don't normally do. After her bath I blow dried her hair. I brushed it and dried it. I wanted to get all sentimental thinking about how bald that little punkin head used to be. My emotions were quickly averted as Ellie Kate made faces at herself in the mirror.

As I rocked Jack to sleep last night, I remembered when Ellie Kate was his size. Has it really been five years?

I've heard it said that with children the days are long, but the years are short. Oh how true! I'm thankful that Ellie Kate still wants me to rock her.

I tell ya, starting kindergarten has been hard. After taking her to school that first morning, Ross and I attended the 'Boo Hoo Breakfast' where I boohooed. I then took Emmett to his school. I came home and sat, rocking baby Jack. He and I had a nice conversation in which he agreed to remain a baby, indefinitely. That helped my feelings.

In the mornings when she's leaving, she says,"Bye Jack, my little carrot."

She recently got in trouble.

During revival we were getting ready to leave church and I couldn't find her. I walked to the back of the sanctuary and looked in the foyer. One of the doors was opened where people were walking out. All I could see was an arm extended with a little hand palm up. Then I noticed men digging in their pockets. Well come to find out Ellie Kate was taking up money from people as they left the church. She even told me later,"If you give me a dollar it'll be your lucky day." She came home with a five dollar bill and some change.

Ross and I told her that she was not to take up money at church. So you can imagine our surprise when recently we found her on a Sunday night at church collecting money as people left. A familiar discussion ensued as we talked about the fact that she was not to do this. Her response,"But it's for my money collection."

I think we'll play it safe and check her pockets every time we come home from church.

Oh how I often wish I knew just half of what Ellie Kate thinks she knows. She has always been a grown up in a little body. Being the big sister to two little boys only accentuates the entitlement of authority that she already feels.

Just the other night I heard Emmett crying. Ellie Kate came walking out of her room. I asked her what happened. She said that Emmett was being ugly while playing with her dollhouse so she hit him. I took her into her room so that I could mediate between the two parties. Emmett, crying, came and put his head on my lap. I talked to him about playing nice with his sister. Before I could address the sister, she turned to Emmett and said,"Now apologize to Sister." She went on to say,"If you apologize and keep your promise you can play, but if you don't keep your promise then I'm not gonna let you play with it (the dollhouse) nights or days."

Emmett, feeling the full weight of the consequences and to my surprise, murmured a "sawwee". Little Priss would have overlooked her own offense had I not stopped her and reminded her that I am the Mommy and she isn't supposed to hit anyone. She apologized to her brother shortly thereafter and all was right with the world for 13.5 seconds.

I have to say, she really does love her brothers and she mothers them to the best of her five year old ability.

So (as my mother laughs) I am getting a daily dose of what it's like to raise, well, myself.

D-r-a-m-a.

When she fell on the waterslide Saturday and cut her toe (it was pretty bad), she quickly decided that since she had "broke" her toe, her fellow classmates could get her a wheelchair and push her around. Thus far we have been able to avoid the wheelchair and managed with only a slight limp. She also told me that swinging in our backyard the other day was good excercise for her "broke" toe. I have reminded her daily about her bravery concerning her recent injury. She has proudly told me that she has indeed been impressed with said bravery.

She does currently end most sentences with,"Isn't that right, Mama." Ross and I think it's so cute that she wants my affirmation so often.

And one last thing, Ellie Kate thinks she speaks several different languages. This is especially true when she is taken to get a pedicure. She communicates with whoever is painting her toenails. She and I were having a pedicure recently and she said,"ChongChichiiahfdhdihdchong." I said,"What?" She quickly told me that she was not talking to me.

She has also approached people in restaurants and started speaking "their" language.

Offensive? Most likely.

She is a mess, but I wouldn't take anything in the world for that little girl.

And with that, I will leave you with a couple of recent Ellie Kate quotes:

"Shut up isn't a nice word for adults, for cats and dogs, or for small children."

"See this boo boo on my neck. I was trying to grow a hair there. It didn't come out. It made a little place. It wasn't up to me. It was up to my body."

Happy Birthday Ellie Kate! I love you!

You are my Priss-a-potamus!

These little people...

look alot alike.

Ellie Kate


Emmett


Jack

Ellie Kate

Emmett

Jack

And they favor these big people.

Each baby with Daddy.

Emmett: 3

Our 'little man with a plan' is turning three! (Just a moment while I reread that first sentence.)

Wow! That was fast. Wasn't I just delivering him?

I remember it well.

Hurricane Faye was blowing thru and due to the craziness of his delivery and lack of epidural, I'm pretty sure Ross thought he was witnessing an exorcism. At least that's what one would conclude when they are observing their wife, voice lowered, spouting threats. I think we were both waiting for my head to spin.

So back to the joyous occasion at hand.
Mr. Emmett Wilson is a man of few words. Let me restate that. He talks plenty. We just aren't always sure about what he's saying. Now he knows exactly what he's saying. Oh yeah, he jabbers with authority.

Our little guy loves "sinosaurs". At least one of his dinosaurs is nearly always attached to his hand. They go to church (and everywhere else) with us and if for some reason left behind, everyone knows who their owner is.
Currently, his favorite movie is How to Train Your Dragon. He hands me the case numerous times a day saying,"Dwagon?."

Just last night as I was up with Jack feeding him a bottle, I heard Emmett's door opening. The little pitter patter of steps led him to the couch where he plopped down as if 3 a.m. were a good waking hour. I balanced Jack and his bottle in one arm and went to escort Emmett back to bed hoping that he would think sleep was a necessity. He got off of the couch, found the dvd case to How to Train Your Dragon, and let me take him back to his bed. When you start sleeping with the dvd case of your favorite movie, well I'd say you are teetering on obsession.

I usually awake during the night a few times a week to find him seated on the couch in the living room. Either that or he just comes right into our room at 4:30 in the a.m. and says,"Heeeey guys."
I really cannot complain because he goes to bed so well. He is often excited to lay down and go to sleep which is further proof that I indeed gave birth to this child. We always say his bedtime verses. Psalm 25:4-5,"Show me Your ways, oh Lord. Guide me in Your truth and teach me." After that I give him kisses, tell him I love him, and say,"Now stay in your bed. Yes ma'am?" He grins and says, "Ess, ma'am." Ellie Kate will often repeat what I've said wanting him to give her a "yes, ma'am." I always remind her that it is not necessary for her brother to "ma'am" her.

He is a rather demanding little person first thing in the morning. I could do with a calm, "Good morning, Mommy." Instead I often hear "Elmo" repeated somewhere upwards of 20 times, as well as "Duice...". Funny how his volume excelerates when his sleepy headed mama is not answering his requests quick enough.

One improvement has been made, however. Now he is starting to say,"Duice(wait for it, wait for it)...pwease." And let me tell you, he is so proud of himself when he does. A little grin curls on his face and his eyes glance to the floor as I congratulate him for having such good manners. When he gets the juice, he is starting to repeat,"Tank ou, Mama." Hugs and kisses and major congratulations follow.

We took Emmett's pacifier(s) away this summer. For a while, he would say,"Paci, whereareyou whereareyou?" I finally took one of those pacis and cut the end off of it, telling him that it broke. He would take it and say,"Ut oh."

It's funny how different my children are.
I know I often post Ellie Kate quotes. That girl is never at a lack for words. Mr. Emmett, on the other hand, is often jabbering especially when he's excited. But I just don't think many would understand if I posted his quotes. It would look something like, "kjdfiaiejiji...dwagon...lsdkjld...duice...djljfadfj" and so on.

One thing that does this mama good is just how affectionate of a little one my Emmett is. He loves to snuggle. He most always 'gives me lovin'.

And one of my absolute favorite things about Emmett? He loves to hold my hand which in turn melts my heart.

His blue eyes are the bluest. Oh, and his 'scrunch face' is the cutest.

It's amazing how a little guy like Emmett can render this mama helpless with a smoosh of his face. That little dimple on the right side of his mouth doesn't hurt either.

When I'm in the kitchen, Emmett is attached to one or both of my legs. He will press his little face into me and on occasion do so baring his teeth. Not cool, but I get so tickled at him. He is a wallowing child. This is quite helpful as he hangs on my back while I change Jack's diaper. Just yesterday he did this while saying,"What's da big idea?"

Speaking of Jack, Emmett is starting to acknowledge him. It's only taken 6 months. He will actually look at his brother and repeat "Baby Jack" when prompted three times. It's a start:)

However, Emmett loves his big sister. He thinks that she is hands down the funniest person in the world which works out well because she holds the same opinion of herself. Ellie Kate could take Emmett by the hand and lead him to the ends of the earth. He would go willingly, giggling uncontrollably all the way.

Emmett also loves for Ross to get him. He makes fast tracks down the hallway to escape The Daddy all the while hoping to be caught and tickled without mercy.

Emmett's goodbyes are also a thing of cuteness. Hand to mouth, he says,"Muuuaww."
We have seen so much improvement with Emmett in the past few months. It would take a while to explain all that has taken place. Let me just say that the Lord has been ever so faithful to lead us as we do what is best for our son.

The milestone of a birthday brings about much reflection.
I truly believe that parenting is the hardest most worthwhile privilege in the world. I've never rejoiced more than when my blue-eyed Emmett attempts a new word or holds my gaze just a second longer than before. I've also never pleaded as hard as when I ask the Lord to give us the best guidance in knowing how to help in Emmett's development.

So much emotion wrapped in the rearing of a precious soul. Oh that I would seek the Lord to be the mommy that my children need me to be!

I often think,"Gently still, oh Lord, lead me gently still as I lead them."

Emmett seriously loves his Mommy. I pray that as the years fly by (because they do) I will be found worthy of that little soul's adoration.
Happy Birthday, Emmett! You are my Cute-a-potamus!

On the eve of her first day of kindergarten

Wowzers! She cannot be old enough for this! Not my Prissy Luller Belle!

In honor of this landmark event in our lives, I've decided to interview my little student. Here goes...

Me:"What's tomorrow?"

EK:"Uh...school. (pointing @ the computer screen) Does that say school?"

Me:"Yes. Now what are you most excited about for school?"

EK:"I'm excited about sleeping there and I'm excited about going to paint there. Does it say paint. Paint starts with a p? and I want to draw there."

Me:"How many kids do you think will be in your class?"

EK:"I think 152."

Me:"What's your teacher's name?"

EK:"Ms. Adams. How do you spell Belle?"

Me:"Alright stay focused. Let's talk about kindergarten."

EK:"Ask me what snack I want to eat there. Okay, Mama? Ask me. Know what I wanna eat there?"

Me:"What kind of snack do you want there?"

EK:"A banana. I want a banana. How do you spell banana?"

Me:"What are some things that you think you will learn in kindergarten?"

EK:"I will learn how to say new things. I will know how to draw new things like a heart. That's a good thing. Isn't it?"

Me:"How long will you be at school each day?"

EK:"Um...forever. For...ev..ev..er. Are you gonna write the number? I think I'll be there 52 100. Are you gonna write that, Mama? That's a long time. Write Ellie Kate b/c I said Ellie Kate. Does that say Ellie Kate you stink?"

Me:"Should it say 'you stink'?"

EK:(Shaking head)"No."

Me:"Let's focus. Will you miss me while you're at school?"

EK:"Yes I will. I'll miss Jack, the little fella, too and Emmett."

Me:"How many days a week will you go to school?"

EK:"Um...500? Did you write the number 500?"

Me:"Did you know that you have to wake up early every day for school?"

EK:"Yes. Why?"

Me:"Is there anything that you're nervous about?"

EK:"No. You know which thing I'm excited about arts and crafts to do there? I'm excited about doing arts and craft."

Me:"Did you know that you have to raise your hand to speak?"

EK:"Yes. Raise your hand if you wanna say something in kindergarten."

Me:"Well I'm all out of questions."

EK:"You are? I'm not. I want to draw and learn everything. Hey do you want to drop me off at kindergarten and tell my teacher you're all out of questions? Do you know what I'm going to need to study? I'm gonna need a computer."

Me:"In kindergarten?"

EK:"If we study we might."

Me:"Do you know how much I love you?"

EK:"How much? Show me. Show me how much little prissy...(touching keyboard)You need a "q", Mama?"

Me:"I think this interview was over a while ago."

EK:"What do n-r-o spell?"

Me:"Nothing."

EK:"Huh? You writted 'nothing'?"

Me:"Interview over, but do you have a closing thought?"

EK:(Speaking like a robot)"I am all out of questions. I don't have anything else to say, Mama.....Wait. The last thing that I want you to write is 'Have a fun day at school.' Now read it, Mama. Stupid and idiot..."

Me:(Cutting my eyes at her and shaking my head.)
EK:"...are not nice words. You thought I was going to call you that."

Me:"You're a mess."

As you can see we are quite focused on our big day tomorrow. Extra prayers will be said for Ellie Kate's teacher, Ms. Adams.

Here's what happened with Jack

(First of all let me say that I am sorry that it has taken me this long to give all of the details concerning Jack. We just returned to Ashland after taking our scheduled vacation last week. Jack and Emmett received lots of special attention from our families, while Ross and I took Ellie Kate to Disney World. We are all currently happy and healthy with lots and lots of pictures to post.)

Ross and I were able to attend a ministry retreat a few months ago. We had the privilege of hearing Dr. Calvin Miller speak and offer advice in regards to ministry. He is an absolute brilliant mind having authored over 40 books. He is a retired pastor as well as a professor. He is a passionate follower of Christ not lacking in common sense or compassion. A statement that he made that weekend made an impression on me then and registered all the more powerfully with me since our revival services. Dr. Miller said, “I would much rather be a part of a church service in which I cannot explain what happened instead of one where I can.”

I ended my last post by stating that, “I cannot wait to share this latest happening in our family’s life.” I would like to put some perspective with that statement. Before I tell you what took place with Baby Jack last week, let me first say that I share our experience with you lacking anticipation when it comes to recounting my little one’s sickness. My excitement definitely has more to do with trying to convey the goodness of the Lord in our lives. No matter how I try, I will not be able to fully explain what took place. In a real sense, you definitely had to be there.

Another reason for this post is to get my thoughts down. Last week was crazy, fast, and furious. Processing what took place has not been easy for me. I mean, Jack had already been terribly sick at 8 weeks of age. It had never entered my mind that I would be returning to Children’s Hospital with my sweet baby.

Monday night, the 1st of August, was the second night of revival services at First Baptist Church of Ashland. I was seated in the front row as Ross made his way to the pulpit. I had been told that there was enough help in the nursery for this service and I must say that I was relieved because I was looking forward to hearing the message that Ross was going to preach. Mind you, I did not know which passage he would be preaching on or even the title of the message.

He began by asking the question, “Do you really want revival?” In his introduction he spoke of being a part of several revival services. He told the congregation that when he found out that he would be the preacher of these revival services, he thought, “Lord, please don’t make me preach that passage.”

The passage that Ross was referring to was 2 Chronicles 7:14. It says, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Ross spoke about how many times he had heard this passage preached, both correctly and incorrectly. He went on to say that it was the "go to" revival service passage. He made his feelings quite clear concerning his lack of desire when it came to preaching this passage. However, he was also very clear in stating that he was convinced that this was the message that the Lord had given to him. And with that, he began to deliver the sermon.

My husband preached boldly and passionately. He was starting the third point of his sermon with a fourth point to go. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw someone peeking thru the side door, motioning for me. I left the sanctuary and was told that Jack, my normally jolly little guy, was crying and couldn’t be consoled. My first thought was that it was passed his bedtime and he was being fussy because he was ready to go to bed.

When I took Jack, he was definitely exhausted. I rocked him and noticed that he would try to go to sleep, but then he would cry out in pain and struggle to take a breath. I told the nursery worker that something wasn’t right. She agreed and said that that’s why she had gotten me out of the service.

The sight of Jack hurting and laboring to breath was frighteningly familiar. I made the decision to go get Ross out of the pulpit. I handed Jack to someone else in the nursery and quickly headed out to get Ross.

Thankfully, we have doors that lead to the choir loft. I opened one of these doors and got his attention. At this point, I had begun to cry and all I could say was, “I need you.” He paused with a baffled look on his face. I continued, “I need you. Jack is having trouble breathing.”

I found out later that Ross had literally just used Jack’s sickness at 8 weeks of age as an illustration in his sermon. He talked about pleading with the Lord to let Jack breathe. He followed this with another illustration in which, he had his arms stretched out proclaiming, “Give me air!” This was the point when I had opened the door.

He told the congregation to pray and he ran passed me to the nursery. He took Jack in his arms, observing the struggle that was taking place with his breathing. We hurried out the door. Thankfully, someone was able to get my purse off of the front row. I found the keys in my purse and I held Jack as Ross drove us to the emergency room. All I kept saying over and over was, “Not again. Not again. Not my baby.”

We went into the emergency room pleading for help. We were ushered back to an area where we were asked an endless list of questions trying to understand what was taking place with our baby. All the while, Jack was inconsolable.

At this point I didn’t know that a church member had contacted one of the local beloved physicians to come to the emergency room. Dr. H showed up and took over. He was really great.

X-rays were ordered.
X-rays were taken and blood was drawn. I felt so helpless for my little one.
Jack finally dozed off lying on my chest.

The x-rays came back and showed that Jack’s lungs looked fine. However, more x-rays were taken because of concern over his abdomen. Apparently, he was very bloated and unable for whatever reason to pass the gas in his tummy.
We also noticed that Jack’s legs and feet had turned a bright red color.

Dr. H made the decision to send us to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham. An ambulance was called.
I don’t know exactly how long Jack slept, but when he woke up he was actually smiling and passing gas. I immediately looked at Ross wanting some reassurance concerning my decisions. He was quick to remind me of the waiting room filled with people praying not to mention the sanctuary that was also filled.

Since Jack seemed better, we were allowed to drive him to Birmingham.
He rested the whole way.

The Lord reminded me, as Ross drove, of that very morning when I had sat Ellie Kate down and discussed putting on the armor of God in Ephesians 6. We had gone over each piece of protection. The one that stuck out the most to me was the shield of faith with which we could extinguish to arrows of the evil one.

We arrived at Children’s to a full waiting room. Thankfully, we had a room waiting on us. Jack immediately woke up and began crying.
An i.v. was started. X-rays were taken.

The x-rays showed that his lungs and abdomen were all doing well.
The doctor’s concern was with Jack’s legs. At this point, he had red spots on his legs and feet that didn’t blanch when touched. The doctor referred to them as petechial. She said that they could be a sign of a bacterial infection. That, along with his irritability, concerned her. She wanted to do a spinal tap and have blood drawn. She said that we would probably be there for a couple of days.

I was in disbelief.

I spoke with one of the doctors and expressed my concern over the idea of having a spinal tap performed. She was quick to tell me that they did not order frivolous tests.
Ross and I gave our consent and were taken to a nearby waiting room. It was probably about 2:30 in the morning.

I felt frail.

Ross and I leaned against one another and prayed for our baby. This all seemed quite surreal.
After the procedure was performed, we were able to return to Jack’s emergency room. I held that sweet baby until he went to sleep.
We were taken to a room around 4:30 a.m.
Exhausted, you could say.
I positioned Jack in the hospital crib and Ross prepared our fold out beds.
Ross and I slept for maybe three hours.

At some point the next morning, the doctors came by to check on Jack. The spinal tap showed negative for any type of infection. He was acting like his happy little self now. He definitely had a yucky cough and a lot of congestion. They wanted to observe him and hopefully send us home that afternoon. Jack sang and cooed for them. He then pulled the covers across his forehead as if to say, “Please go away so I can sleep.”
And sleep he did. Poor baby had experienced a rough night.

Ross felt strongly that he would be back in the pulpit of FBC Ashland that night. That afternoon, we were able to have a doctor sign off on Jack being discharged from the hospital.
Exhausted, we arrived back in Ashland around 6 p.m. Just an hour later, Ross was standing back in the pulpit. Thanks to my Mom keeping our children at our home, I was seated on the front row.

He said that he couldn’t help but ask the Lord, “Why?” Throughout the previous 24 hours, he had continuously posed the same question. He knew that he was supposed to deliver the message that he had been preaching when I came and called him away the night before.
He said that he got his answer while we were in our hospital room. As he looked over at sweet little Jack, the Lord told him that our little one was the reason.

Now normally Ross would have about seven pages of typed notes. His sermon outline would be complete with footnotes. However, on this night he didn’t have his typical outline. Instead he had that same confirmation from the Lord about what he was to say.

He said that he was neither smart enough nor was he strong enough to deliver the message that the Lord had given to him. He was also not willing to be disobedient.

He then went on to preach a message of reconciliation. The more recent history of our church includes a split. There had been many wounds. There had been many relationships that needed mending.
When Jack got sick, both this time and last, it drew our entire community together. It wasn’t that just one denomination or church group prayed for our baby, the whole community lifted up our little one.

Ross preached a very powerful, heartfelt sermon using a passage out of Colossians. He then called for a show of reconciliation. The message ended with the signing of a petition of reconciliation followed by an altar filled with many seeking the Lord.
Even as I read over this now, I almost don’t even want to post it. This is what took place. This is also not all that took place.

Ross and I feel that Jack was congested while his abdomen was swollen due to gas. The combination caused a lot of pain, as well, as a struggle to breath. I have no idea what was taking place with his legs and feet.

I want to be very careful when I try to explain what was taking place because I truly believe that there was so much more going on than we will ever be able to explain.

Praise the Lord that what Satan intended for evil, the Lord used for good.

It was once again overwhelming to witness the show of support that we experienced from so many.

We were humbled then.

And we continue to be now.

Update

We were released from the hospital yesterday afternoon and returned home around 6 pm. Jack is doing well. He is very congested and has a nasty cough, but he is my jolly little pudge of a fella.

I honesty cannot express my gratitude to each and every show of support and prayer lifted on my family's behalf. I have been unable to respond to each call, text, facebook post, but each one has been and continues to be greatly appreciated. I look forward to sharing this latest happening in our lives in the form of a post.

God is good!

Amy

Sitting in Children's Hospital Again

I still cannot quite comprehend the title to this post.
This morning we find ourselves in a place that is far more familiar than I had ever hoped it would be. We are in Children's Hospital in B'ham. For now let me say that sweet baby Jack is doing well. Results from his spinal tap (performed @ 2:30 this morning) returned negative.

We hope to return home soon.

I am beyond humbled by the prayers lifted on my family's behalf.

Do not be fooled! There is more than a physical struggle that has taken place in these last 15+ hours. There is a spiritual battle that has been fought. My Lord Jesus has graciously stood with us.

Thank you, dear Father, for Your mercy.

What satan intended for evil, the Lord has already and will continue to use for good!

God has seen fit to use baby Jack, the most innocent among us, to accomplish His purposes.

I will post with more details when I can.

Emmett wasn't digging it, but...

While Ross was on a mission trip to Honduras last week, I asked Haiden to come and snap some photos of me and the kids. I was originally going to surprise him with the pictures, but I couldn't stand it so I showed them to him.

This Mama's got her lap full...literally. These little ones are such a blessing!
More to come...

Storytime with Ellie Kate

Me:"What do you want to talk about?"
EK:"Jesus and God. I want to talk about Jesus."
Me:"What about Him?"
EK:"I love Him and I wish I could see Him for a hundred years."
Me:"What would y'all do?"
EK:"We would spend time together."
Me:"What would you talk about?"
EK:"I would talk about Grammy and Pawpaw."
Me:"What about them?"
EK:"I would say that I love them and then they would take me to Nana's house."

New topic.
Me:"What else do you want to talk about this morning?"
EK:"That I would love on Mama."
Me:"Can you tell me a story?"
EK:"Once upon a time there was a girl named Ellie Kate. Ellie Kate found a handsome boy named Emmett. And she thought that she could marry him."
Me:"He's your brother and you cannot marry your brother."
EK:"Don't write that in the story. I didn't know his name so he told me his name and I decided to marry him."
Me:"So this is a different Emmett?"
EK:"It was a different Emmett."
Me:"What happened next?"
EK:"Me and Emmett went to a house and there was a mommy, a daddy, and a baby named Jack. Um...I thought they could come with us to our wedding. And then we married each other. And then we married each other and then I went to the hospital and there was two childs that came out of my tummy. And then it was Jessie and Repunzel. And then the kids wanted to go to our house. And then we didn't have a house. I told them we didn't have a house and then we told the workers to build us one. And then they build us a house with stairs. And we lived happily ever after. The end."
Me:"Good story."
EK:"Thank you."

Jack at Home (with Ellie Kate)

She did help me write "thank you" cards.

Jack's Arrival (mostly pictures)

In honor of Jack turning 6 months old this week, I thought I would tell about his arrival.
I had a doctor's appointment on Friday the 21st of January. By this point I was already progressing toward having the little guy. In an effort to speed up the process, my doctor stripped my membranes. After that she kindly peeled me off of the ceiling.
Ross brought the kids to Tigertown to meet me for lunch. I was having contractions that seemed to be somewhat consistent. We decided that Ross would take the kids back to Reeltown while I drove over to the hospital and sat in the lobby. I had no intention of this delivery having any resemblance to Emmett's.
I drove over to the hospital. As I sat in the lobby I noticed that my contractions were getting more intense. I waddled to the elevator and rode up to the third floor where I checked myself in. I had an appointment with an epidural that I wasn't about to miss.
Everything happened so quickly.
Thankfully Ross made it back to the hospital just as I was about to start pushing.
I literally pushed all of ten minutes and Jack Watson entered the world.
He had a head full of dark hair. I had checked in at 1:30 p.m. and he was born just after 6 p.m.
My mom and sister arrived shortly after he was born.
When my sister was standing next to me holding Jack, I saw a shooting star out of the window behind her. I really did see it. It wasn't the drugs, people.

The Proud DaddyNice to meet you.Studying my new little person.Nana & JackOne of my favorite memories was getting to introduce my dad, Jack, to my son, Jack.Poppa & MemeGrammy & Pawpaw Since it was flu season, Ellie Kate and Emmett weren't able to meet Jack at the hospital. Ellie Kate did call to find out what we had named her new brother. After hearing that we had named him Jack Watson, she said,"That's awesome, Mama! Next time I see you I'm gonna give you knuckles!"

Getting dressed to go home.So tiny.Being wheeled to the car.Snuggling at home.

I am...

alive and well.
I have so much catching up to do.
I just wrote out the story of Jack's arrival and now it is gone.
I wrote out the story of Jack's sickness and now it is gone.
I literally have a post saved from last September that I never posted.
I am not organized.
It's been a very emotional week.
And last but not least, a little perspective goes a long way so I am okay with all of the above. I'm not happy with all of the above, but I am okay with it.
Will try to post soon.

Yeah, she carries a chainsaw.

That would be my Mama.

She is indeed chainsaw certified. If you know Brenda, then the former statement should strike fear into your heart.

She does nothing half way.

And to this daughter, well, that is one of her most enduring qualities.

My Mama, God love her, has had to raise this brat of a child.

As I type now, also the mommy to three little people, I must say that I have no idea why I've made it this far. Looking back, I would have definitely, without a doubt, given me to the circus. (Notice I didn't say 'sold'.)

In my life, my Mama has proven to be one of my greatest encouragers.

She forgives well and loves much.

Her generousity is best shown by the fact that she is a part of a disaster relief team that will be going out this week to help the victims of the April 27th tornadoes. She will be wielding her chainsaw. She will be towing her Kawasaki mule. And dare you stand in the way of her relief efforts, well, you best be ready to face the consequences. She packs heat, my friend, in the form of a little pistol tucked away in her car.

She is an amazing Mama to me and my siblings.

She is an amazing Nana to all four of her grandbabies.

And she continues to give of herself to those who need a word of encouragement or a chainsaw with a sharp blade!

I love you, Mama! I hope it has indeed been a Happy Mother's Day!

We are still kickin'

Long time, no blog. Things have been ca..raa..zzy.

To see Jack now, you would never know that he had been such a sick little fella. He is doing great and we are so thankful. His sickness and all that went with it, seem like a bad dream. I still am so humbled when I reflect upon the outpouring of love and support that we received during that difficult time. Somehow, saying "thank you" just doesn't seem like enough. Believe me when I say that this Mommy is beyond grateful for each comment left and each prayer lifted.

Jack still wants to be held and spoken to. Leaving him alone can result in what we've come to call "Jack Attacks." By this we are referring to his temper that emerges. Boy does he ever get mad. His lungs are just fine at this point. We could stick him on top of the car and head to an emergency with our little siren blaring. All vehicles would clear out of our way. He's just that loud.

Just like his big brother, Jack can poke that bottom lip out like it's nobody's business. Truth be told, I want to sit and hold his little, pudgy self. For a while now we have officially had to lift a chin during bathtime to ensure a successful washing. Jack has decided that a healthy appetite is the best way to total health. He aspires to having fat rolls on his arms. I love a chubby baby.

And that smile. We are at the point where it is genuine and no longer just gas. Oh, what a little doll baby:)

Ellie Kate's take on it all was that "Jack went to the hospital so the doctors could take out all of his coughs and sneezes." She wanted to know what flavor medicine he was receiving. She said that pineapple was his favorite. She also wanted to make sure that the hospital had bandaides.

So during all of the insanity, we decided to sit back and take it easy...WRONG. Instead we continued following the Lord's leadership and moved to Ashland, Alabama. (Each topic mentioned here deserves it's own post, but I only have time for a quick little update so stick with me.) Transition is just the easiest thing...NOT.

"Bittersweet" is the only word that I can think of when descibing these recent changes. "Bitter" because we had to leave people that we loved dearly at First Baptist Church Reeltown. It was Ross' first church to pastor. We got to see the Lord move in amazing ways and we will always reflect upon our three years spent there with much fondness. "Sweet" because we know that it was the Lord guiding us in our decision to move. We can never go wrong when following His prompting. It has been exciting to meet the members of Ashland First Baptist. We feel privileged to be counted among another fellowship of believers who readily love the Lord and are eager to see what He has in store. If you've never moved with 3 children 4 and under well, my friend you don't know what you are missing.

Let me tell you what I am missing. My shoes. At least I know that they are safe. They will be in storage for the next 6 to 8 weeks. I will see them again when we move from our temporary home to the parsonage which is under renovation. As I walked room to room looking for the box that I had purposely packed my shoes away in, a vegetale song played in my head. "I got shoes. You got shoes. All God's children got shoes." Ummm....no they don't. So after an emergency shopping trip (thanks Nana), I returned with a few basic pairs of shoes to get me thru until I rediscover my packed away shoes. It could've been worse, we could be missing a certain white chihuahua. I think that Bunny was well aware of this danger as the movers packed everything in sight. She followed closely behind us. I even think I saw her carrying a candlestick incase she needed an emergency flare.

Our "temporary home" has a nice, big front porch. We sat on it yesterday afternoon waiting on Ross to come home. Ellie Kate stood on the railing, yelling to a little boy in a yard across the street. "Hey neighbor. Dis is Emmett. He's my brother." And when Ross pulled up,"Dat's my Daddy. His name is Woss. He's been workin' hard." She is a wealth of information. I'm quite sure that the little boy across the street with his pants sagging to reveal a view of his crack, was terribly impressed with all that she had yelled to him.

Ellie Kate has already had several discussions, wait. She has given several monologues to children that she has played with about how she used to live in "Weeltown." She always has to look to me to be reminded of the town in which we now live.

And just this morning, as Ross was up with Ellie Kate and Emmett, he found the Little Man in the bathroom giving his dinosaur a bath in the toilet. Such a little boy. His dinosaur sticketh in his hand closer than a brother.

Emmett has started talking more. He will randomly spout out words rather clearly. It is so stinkin' cute. I have a feeling that Emmett could actually carry on a rather lengthy conversation at this point, but why try to explain yourself when you've got a big sister who can negotiate for you? I still wonder at times as Emmett babbles, just how he came to be tri-lingual. I say that subtitles would be handy, but there are times when it is probably best that I don't know what his little stubborn self is saying.

I hope to start blogging on a more regular basis. This is by no means a cemented hope. You see I have come to realize that my best intentions and desires are quickly cast aside in the hustle of daily life. I'm okay with that. I would just really like to have a more consistent record of the happenings in our lives. Ross once noticed that I had taken several pictures of Emmett pitching a fit. When questioned I told him that one day I want to remind the little guy of the things he put his mommy thru so that he can have an appropriate appreciation for me.

I could write post after post filled with Ellie Kate quotes. That child is so dramatic. While staying with my parents recently, they went to a rodeo. Ellie Kate picked out a hat. No, not a basic, little cowgirl hat. We're talking pink with a feather rim and flashing crown. Subtle walked right out of the door unnoticed when she put that thing on. It too, is being kept safe in storage. This ensures a few Sundays that I won't have to insist that she not wear it to church. I will count it a blessing and one less battle to face. I've learned to choose those carefully. When you have a drama filled, argumentative four year old, you quickly learn that fashion isn't at the top of the list of things to conquer.

I have so much that I want to write, but life beckons in the form of a blue-eyed, two year old requesting "Duice".

(Just so you know, if I am locked away in jail, it's because my relationship with this computer took a violent turn. Apparently this post will appear as a looooong paragraph. And while I'm placing blame, my spelling and grammar here are without blemish. Yeah, this computer has a mind of it's own. I wonder if I carried it in my womb and then gave birth to it because it is currently reminding me of one of my children.)

Okay, now that I talked ugly about my computer, it decides to behave, well, sort of.

We are...

Home. Praise the Lord! I was quite surprised that we got to come home today because Jack still needed a little bit of oxygen during the night. However, our little fella is doing really well. He has been smiling and cooing at me. Oh, how it does this mama good! I loved being able to sit in our living room, in our glider, and rock that sweet baby without a mask or gloves on. Jack has an appointment with his pediatrician in the morning and then my mom is going to bring Ellie Kate and Emmett home. I cannot wait to see those babies! We have alot going on right now in our family, but the Lord is faithful to just let me be where I am each day. "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." -Isaiah 46:4

Update on My Little Jack

Jack has had a good, somewhat restful day.
He is still in the special care unit.
He is still on oxygen.
His color is great and his blue eyes are bright.
His little horsed cry is getting stronger.
His Mommy is thankful for so many things.
I am, of course, mentally and emotionally tired.
I am also being upheld by grace beyond anything I can see or imagine.
God is God and I am glad.

If you have a moment, click on my husband's blog.
I love that man.

Another Update

Jack has had a really good day. He was taken off of the ventilator. I got to sit and hold him.
I stared intently at that little guy. I got to stroke his head with gloved hands and sing to him with a mask on my face. I got to tell him about all of the people who love him and are praying for him.

It seems that the reality of where we are is beginning to set in for me. Jack looks wonderful compared to where he was just a few short days ago. At the same time, I have those moments when I see my precious baby and realize just how sick he has been and how sick he still is. I know that he is receiving the best care possible. All the while, he is my fragile little one. Even more so, I know that Jack belongs to the Lord. God has been and continues to be so good to us.

His grace has covered us with an amazing peace. I am sure that hindsight will afford me even more opportunities to marvel at His care for us.

Thank you all so much for each and every prayer.

I am so humbled.

"Jesus loves the Baby. This Mommy knows. For the Bible tells the Mommy so. Little ones to Him belong. They are weak, but He is strong. Yes, Jesus loves the Baby. Yes, Jesus loves the Baby. Yes, Jesus loves the Baby. The Bible tells the Mommy so."

Praise the Lord!

Jack tested negative for meningitis. He is still on a ventilator in the picu, but has started breathing on his own. He had a good day and I was able to stare at him for a good long while:)
The Lord has definitely given us a peace in the last 24 hours that could only come from Him. I am quite humbled by the outpouring of love and support from so many that we know as well as those we've never even met. We have truly been embraced by the body of Christ. We are overwhelmed by His goodness shown to us.

Update

Thank you for each and every prayer.
I took Jack back to the doctor last night. We were taken by ambulance to the hospital. He was struggling to breath and having seizures. He was put on a ventilator and airlifted to Children's Hospital in Birmingham. They did a spinal tap on him. We should get the results today. We were able to see him at about three this morning.
I spoke with his nurse this morning and we are very confident with how he is doing.
My Lord is taking care of my precious little Jack.