tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47506850585633496862012-01-29T07:31:54.059-05:00Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 1 Corinthians 3:17Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.comBlogger4841100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-53509023896640783732012-01-28T20:44:00.007-05:002012-01-28T20:58:02.755-05:00

I was thrilled to wake up to sunshine this morning! And...it was warm enough to be outside without coats! WOW! I can't remember the last time that happened in January!! It seemed like an extra special gift in honor of Isabelle Kate's "Posa" {Butterfly} Party!!Look at that...barefoot in JANUARY!!!!I just can't believe my little girl is five! She is the prettiest, sweetest girl in the whole world!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-60677645239052183192012-01-27T09:58:00.004-05:002012-01-27T14:13:19.714-05:00

It's a slushy, soggy, gray morning here in NH! But I don't mind...we've got lots of things to do for someone's birthday party tomorrow!I thought I'd share one of my latest projects in our home office/music room. I can't believe I stared at blank walls for over a year! I think I get so afraid of making a mistake, so I don't do a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g. I took a deep breath, and then took the plunge. With

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-65211455719582412772012-01-24T17:45:00.002-05:002012-01-24T17:46:43.621-05:00

Of course Isabelle is sitting beside me right this very minute having a colossal fit over something yet to be determined, so I'm kind of chuckling at the name I first gave this post. But anyway. I'd stared down a basic navy shirt of hers for far too long, always passing it up in lieu of pinks and purples and yellows- you get the idea. Basic navy wasn't scoring any points here, so...what did I

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-83380742426241172172012-01-23T09:37:00.001-05:002012-01-23T09:40:17.562-05:00

You know how some days just feel so great, even when you're not really doing anything? Some of us weren't feeling that well so we decided to stick around home and avoid spreading germs at church. I don't like missing church, but at the same time, a nice, quiet, leisurely morning seemed like such a wonderful gift, and we all felt better at the end of the day. Bill and I took Ryder out for an early

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-52206019402661812332012-01-19T13:56:00.000-05:002012-01-19T13:56:59.631-05:00

Nuking Ivory soap. I saw this idea floating around Pinterest recently, so I thought we'd give it a try.WOW! I tried it out with Caleb first, and when Little Miss heard all the commotion, she came running. Literally. Ha! Pretty cool stuff!Actually, it was hot! I burned myself, twice, while scooping it out of the microwave, even though everything I read said it wouldn't be hot. I also thought it

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-63285078837849140282012-01-16T09:06:00.002-05:002012-01-16T09:13:11.822-05:00

I'm not sure why, but I find myself thinking about one photograph in particular an awful lot these days.It's of my boys. When they were little and adorable and always gooey with something.They were muddy here.And their favorite part of this mud painting escapade was the super-frigid hosing down afterward! I heart this picture of my little adventurers, but it's that gr-r-r-r-rowl on my middle

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-20515335584722817672012-01-15T18:36:00.001-05:002012-01-15T18:37:40.743-05:00

Okay, okay, so completely random, I know!Today in church we heard such a great message! The kind where you know God is speaking directly to YOU right where you are I love that!Our pastor has tremendous insight, and one of the things he spoke about really resonated with me: our tendency to to go after what we want when we want it after we've grown tired of waiting on the Lord for fulfilling our

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-89083432009584868652012-01-13T13:24:00.002-05:002012-01-14T07:30:18.485-05:00

Yesterday was also a SNOW DAY! While I was writing, I was also snapping pictures of our day. I was totally lazy and didn't do anything I had planned to- I was going to clean, sew something for my etsy shop, play games with my kids, get started on a Valentine craft...all kinds of things, and I failed big time. But then after a late lunch, and Bill came home early, I got a little gumption and

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-14011150751383387622012-01-12T11:02:00.001-05:002012-01-14T07:26:07.983-05:00

Here we are approaching the middle of January and it's finally snowing. It looks so pretty out there, all fresh and white, so I think I'll just avoid looking at the wet mess in my hallway from the mittens, boots and ski pants. Plus I seem to be in a serious, and I mean serious, decorating rut. I think my main problem is this: I never actually finish anything because I either run out of steam,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-7273874366456643992012-01-10T17:00:00.000-05:002012-01-10T17:00:43.129-05:00

I feel so brave, playing around with fonts and images and layouts and such. It actually intimidates me to death but I'm trying! I just want it all to look...well, different. And pretty. Of course pretty! I hope I did okay!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-88817762826655878462012-01-09T16:46:00.003-05:002012-01-09T17:43:28.218-05:00

Here in the northeast, we need warm clothes! Fleece is a must! I was thinking of some ways to prettify some basic fleece pants up a bit....and I love them! I did learn a little lesson though. I'd been planning on folding over the ruffle rather than sewing a hem, but then it was just too bulky, so I decided against it. What I didn't factor in was that this ruffle was now rather lengthy. As in,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-19829001962696049652012-01-07T12:13:00.000-05:002012-01-07T12:13:01.780-05:00

This morning we headed out bright and early to the first basketball game of the season! Well, some of us did...Ethan and Isabelle were fast asleep so I let them stay put (we'd talked to E about this earlier, and he is a pro- he knows just what to do!). Bill and Caleb had left by ten after eight, so Mr. Metal, ahem Jonah, and I headed up to check things out a little later. The game had just

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-56354620771812170492012-01-03T10:37:00.000-05:002012-01-03T10:37:38.256-05:00

My little boy's smile will never be the same! I am so excited for him because I want him to feel proud and happy with the way he looks, but at the same time, it feels like such a huge passage to adulthood and it's making me so aware of how quickly my Jonah is growing up. This is the very last picture of Jonah with the smile I know, the one I adore and cherish! Okay, so this is the very last one!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-66063276818470543492012-01-01T18:56:00.000-05:002012-01-01T18:56:16.664-05:00

We were blessed with a beautiful, warmish day here in NH this very first day of a brand new year so we were off hiking! Then we headed to Bill's parents for another Christmas celebration with his brother and sister and their families, and now...we are just plain worn out! This has been such a busy, active week and I'm exhausted (in the good way) and sooo ready for a quiet night. And just what

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-44292483600913390592011-12-31T10:24:00.001-05:002011-12-31T10:26:30.661-05:00

This whole month has just flown by! It seems like just yesterday we were walking down the road in search of our family tree...and there it was! I sold our wagon since I thought we were moving, so this year we mixed it up a bit and did some extra running back and forth because the thought of hauling the tree home on our shoulders wasn't all that appealing, ha! There were visits to Santa, lots of

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-47833276516140337722011-12-24T09:49:00.000-05:002011-12-24T09:49:47.375-05:00

From our family to yours...Merry Christmas!!!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-31259643754000248522011-12-21T19:10:00.000-05:002011-12-21T19:10:58.651-05:00

I love these things.... I mean, really, really love them. But today was both a good day and a not-so-great day. Kinda weird. I'm trying to make Christmas special, but I keep getting bogged down with unrealistic expectations and dashed hopes. It's my own fault I think- there are SO many things that are special and wonderful right in front of me but I've worked myself up in such a frenzy

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-488055495274792922011-12-15T20:47:00.000-05:002011-12-15T20:47:56.957-05:00

My baby girl is growing up! Five years old today!I'll share her portraits when I get around to taking them, you know, in all my free time lately.  =) She was pretty psyched about her lunch dates...her very first ballerina barbies! I have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of the whole Barbie genre, but...these were on clearance, and for $2.99 a pop, my little girl has been smiling all.day.long.And

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-43751411623224139022011-12-14T06:37:00.000-05:002011-12-14T06:37:26.964-05:00

I've been trying without success for several minutes now to upload some pictures onto Picasa, but...nada. I don't know why, but boy oh boy does that make my blood boil! I'm trying to do something important here and the powers that be- mainly technology in general- have thrown a wrench in the works. (Yes, I am poking fun at myself here.) Sigh. Deep breath. Life goes on. I think I may be a teensy

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-47988228380351703292011-12-12T06:35:00.001-05:002011-12-12T06:38:57.858-05:00

Today is officially my littlest boy's 9th birthday! To be perfectly honest, I'm having a really, really hard time with it. He just isn't supposed to be getting this much older this quickly! Saturday was the big day for the party- Caleb invited some friends and we had family come over to celebrate with us. Some years, I combine a party just for family for Caleb's and Isabelle's birthdays, and then

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-84366421884511115792011-12-07T10:04:00.005-05:002011-12-07T10:37:27.602-05:00

After the fall decorations left us for the season, I found myself staring down the large, barren, brown wall behind the fireplace without a clue what to do with it for Christmas. This is my very first year with a mantel (which I luuuuuve by the way...you can read about our adventures in designing and constructing it here) but with it came an unexpected bit of anxiety about decorating it! I began

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-14704702364154263942011-12-03T16:27:00.001-05:002011-12-03T16:29:01.761-05:00

This adorable cook was a big help yesterday morning!   Here she is "SPINNING" the cookie dough, ha ha! We had a million things to do, which may have included an impromptu trip to the grocery store after dropping Ethan off at school...and of course this would be the morning I had let Isabelle ride in the car in her jammies. Oh well! It was early so it wasn't even crowded, kinda.At least I was

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-57493732973373467482011-11-28T21:09:00.002-05:002011-11-28T21:14:53.459-05:00

I spent all day today cleaning and gussying up our home for Christmas. This was just the beginning, meaning there's a lot more to do, but it was fun to see Isabelle so excited with the few things I put up. She ran around with her dolly friends, pointing out the decorations and explaining that they were for Jesus's upcoming birthday party.  Clever girl...I hadn't explained it quite like that to

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-61710680034101720662011-11-09T12:36:00.000-05:002011-11-09T12:36:11.101-05:00

New England sure seems to be experiencing some interesting weather trends these days.I'll take sunshine and warmth over the white stuff anyday! She's actually getting hot out there in long sleeves! Wow! These guys are loving the warm, fresh air too!It smells like spring in here...so odd, especially since I put up some Thanksgiving decorations yesterday. I'm sure the cold will return soon enough,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-42033199510412687952011-11-01T06:22:00.001-04:002011-11-01T10:04:10.863-04:00

I am still a bit shocked over the whole trick-or-treating in the snow thing, but...what can you do?We got about 20 inches dumped on us on Sunday!It didn't deter anyone in our neighborhood! poor Isabelle Kate was freezing, so she only made it around the Little Loop with me- she was a terrific candy passer-outer, especially in those adorable little striped legs, ha! Sorry Isabelle, Mama forgot to

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-2335870725341154272011-10-29T17:19:00.001-04:002011-10-29T17:20:08.359-04:00

this last picture should give you a little hint if you didn't figure out what the first photo was....=) And seriously, more snow? Tomorrow is my birthday and we are expecting 8-10 inches! No thank you!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-13820975999901352642011-10-28T09:21:00.005-04:002011-10-28T09:23:28.589-04:00

This was quite the surprise this morning!My poor, down-trodden little mums...I don't think they're going to recover from this one. Someone was a little anxious to get out there...with every article of winter clothing on he could find! On the way home from dropping Ethan off at school, Isabelle informed me that she cannot wait until we get "lots and lots of snows, so I can stick my tongue out

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-1670262737639398982011-10-19T16:15:00.000-04:002011-10-19T16:15:36.062-04:00

I had been waiting for the leaves to turn a little more before taking fall portraits of the kiddos, but...it's raining now so we just might lose all those pretty leaves before I get the chance. I can't help but think back to one of our first fall pictures I did with all four of my babies- aren't they soooooo cute? I love this picture!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-64661036580709828702011-10-17T20:31:00.002-04:002011-10-18T12:19:55.679-04:00

I've really been struggling lately. I'm not able to share details, but I feel pretty wiped out from many different sides. It has been a really hard place to be.It's also really hard to share my heart, yet at the same time, keep certain things private.It's kind of...funny- no, that isn't the right word...strange to be in such chaos in some aspects of life, yet in other aspects experiencing peace

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-77297199814159212772011-10-15T07:29:00.003-04:002011-10-15T10:49:11.137-04:00

So many of us have endured the loss of babies in the womb, in our hearts, and even in our arms.The loss leaves an ache that never dulls, never strays too far from consciousness. While I claim to believe that God's plan for my life is perfect, I do have my times of struggle and doubt. Pain stinks! Loss stinks! It has unraveled me like nothing else ever could, and I know I'm not alone. But I really

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-77205682294066223732011-10-13T13:13:00.002-04:002011-10-13T13:15:20.087-04:00

I never want to forget some of these moments... The other night, Jonah, after showering in my bathroom (for way too long I might add) snuggles up beside me, insisting I sniff his hair. Finally, I inhale. I don't recognize the scent. I used your new stuff, Mom. Smells pretty good, doesn't it? he announces with a come hither smile.My new stuff?Yeah, the orange stuff.Um, that's my new exfoliating

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-38847759174912460362011-10-11T14:01:00.001-04:002011-10-11T14:03:56.375-04:00

Sometimes I look at Isabelle and I am in absolute and utter shock that she is turning five in two months. I don't even like writing out that number. It's too much! I'm not ready!She is such a sweet, smart little girl...and a really great gymnast, too! We've also been visiting local farms. We went with my sis-in-law Kristen one morning, and it was another gorgeous day. Auntie Kristen will be

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-87443644457326309982011-09-29T12:42:00.001-04:002011-09-29T12:46:50.838-04:00

Right now our cat Sneakers is laying beside me, snoring, without a care in the world, atop a laundry basket full of beach towels. What a life! I'd snap a picture but I'm feeling a bit too lazy...It's pouring out today, perfect for baking. Though my to-do list today was quite full, and no, it did not include baking anything. That just happened when poor little miss began whimpering in her bed

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-23523644888479167742011-09-13T14:10:00.001-04:002011-09-13T14:12:20.811-04:00

I remember 9/11 so clearly. It was a beautiful morning. I was headed to my best friend's house with my barely 2-year-old Ethan and sweet 6-month-old Jonah. We had both heard snippets of what was happening, but somehow the reality of what was going on eluded us both. It seemed far-fetched, the newest sensationalistic story or perhaps an attention-getting ploy, a huge mistake even. Of course it

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-53546318090652362272011-09-07T20:49:00.003-04:002011-09-08T07:51:23.439-04:00

Family fun! We had some gift certificates for Chuckster's and finally went there as a family! It was a fun, fun night! **I just remembered...I got 2- count 'em, 2!- holes in one! And I didn't even cheat!  :)  ** These pretty blue flowers Jonah picked for me. It was actually cool enough to wear my big fuzzy robe- I'll spare you a picture of that, ha!, but it felt wonderful. Replacing the summer

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-5133052368367696822011-09-06T12:44:00.001-04:002011-09-06T16:49:40.117-04:00

I may have had a teeny outburst on my blog yesterday. Sorry about that. And thanks Sennie- you're sweet. Moving right along.Someone recently told me that she didn't see the point in trying to impress (in the good, righteous way) her husband anymore. I think that is so sad! There is not one other person on this whole earth that I want to impress more than my husband! I want him to be proud of me

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-26573348195490723492011-09-02T08:09:00.001-04:002011-09-02T08:09:42.704-04:00

What a great week we've had! I was planning on posting pictures of the boys on their first day of school...on Tuesday! But the week never slowed down so I didn't get the chance! Here are my handsome men on Tuesday morning after their deluxe waffle breakfast, ha! Caleb has had wonderful teachers and loved them...but he is pretty excited to have a man for a teacher for the first time

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-56921060022246685172011-08-29T22:35:00.001-04:002011-08-29T22:37:14.117-04:00

Well, here we are. The night before the start of a brand new school year. I still get as excited as I did when I was a little girl...bag packed and ready to go by the door, outfit laid out, finally slipping my tootsies into those never-before-worn shoes...ahhhhh, loved it then and love it now with my little scholars! Summer flew by as usual, and while we certainly had our moments of

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-74991195764684508912011-08-25T17:52:00.001-04:002011-08-25T17:53:41.680-04:00

Today was not a very good day. In fact, it was just plain lousy. Big sigh. And I wish all the brothers in this house acted as lovingly towards each other as these guys do. I do not have any nice, happy, fun pictures of my children to share today. But these two made me smile.  =)

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-78496584607885353512011-08-22T08:38:00.002-04:002011-08-22T08:49:03.917-04:00

We're down to the nitty gritty here. It's kinda bittersweet. I love summer, but it's hard work! Yesterday we celebrated my mother-in-law's birthday (Happy Birthday Grandma- today is the day!), complete with surprise thunderstorm and everything! Bill drove home quick to shut our windows! Ethan, Caleb and Isabelle had made Grandma some special bracelets, and Jonah worked so hard on a special card

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-66982033556828045312011-08-19T17:45:00.006-04:002011-08-20T08:49:27.442-04:00

I just love this time of year! Ever since I was a little girl, there was just something so special about shopping for new folders and pencil crayons, socks and undies...you know, the adorable ones with the flower buds that came in pink, yellow, and blue. If I was really lucky, Mom bought me the coordinating 3-pack of camisole undershirts. Sigh. Anyhoo. I still get quite a high out of school

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-59870675438398424292011-08-19T10:12:00.004-04:002011-08-19T10:17:41.866-04:00

What a week! It has just been one of those long kind of weeks, not bad, but just...I don't know, but I'm feeling pretty happy that it's Friday! Yesterday I woke up ready to conquer the world. I'm still hacking away, slightly less than before, but I had **cookies baking by 7 am, veggies cut and a roast in the cooker, a load of laundry going, lunches being made, things dusted and swept...yeah, go

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-74470584144209001002011-08-16T14:10:00.005-04:002011-08-17T09:31:43.494-04:00

My brain is a little mushy these days...so many projects to distract me (yet I can't finish a single one, blech!), thinking of all we need to cram into the last TWO weeks of summer, big plans, stalled plans, and everything in between. Oh yes, and I've been hit hard with bronchitis- I've had pneumonia and bronchitis tons of time in my life, and I have never experienced such breathing problems as I

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-64826618228164044222011-08-12T10:35:00.002-04:002011-08-12T10:47:14.411-04:00

Our neighbors have struck again. It seems they've removed the "No Trespassing" sign from our next-door neighbor's yard and...nailed it smack dab on the middle of the tree that faces our kids' play fort. As in, three feet from their little hideaway. Needless to say, we were all very upset because it feels like such a mean, unnecessary thing to do. So what did we decide to do about it? Well, now

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-16834465324059931452011-08-10T16:29:00.000-04:002011-08-10T16:29:30.912-04:00

I had to bring Jonah in to the doctor's office today because he has an alarming-looking rash (aren't they all alarming looking?) that is continuing to spread like wildfire down his sad little body. There is also a concerning discoloration of the skin on the backs of his legs, like a deep purple, mottled look, so we've been asked to return tomorrow to decide whether or not to proceed with lab work

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-54634625610616200902011-08-08T07:46:00.001-04:002011-08-08T07:51:18.054-04:00

There is a running joke in our family about thunderstorms and Ethan's birthday parties. And melting cakes. Yesterday we didn't get the storms, but we sure got cake melt! This poor cake didn't stand a chance! Ethan had requested a homemade ice cream cake without any frosting (what? that's not normal, is it?  ha ha). Hmm. I had to think about that one. I finally came up with an idea...he likes the

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-22464508951852620762011-08-06T11:40:00.000-04:002011-08-06T11:40:06.700-04:00

It's Ethan's birthday today! I absolutely cannot believe that I have a 12 year old boy sitting in the other room! (they're all in there watching Cars, and I hear him laughing, so that makes me feel a little better, 'cause that's a "little kid" movie)  Where did all the time go?  And how can I possibly be 12 whole years older?!?! We'll be heading out to lunch for Chinese food, per request of the

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-64840099766333438202011-08-05T21:22:00.000-04:002011-08-05T21:22:42.816-04:00

Most people tell me that I'm a pretty patient person (as a parent anyway), though I tend to disagree. Or maybe I just don't see it. This summer, while it has been a great one, has also been pushing me to my absolute breaking point! All right, so maybe not that extreme, but it feels pretty intense at times. I think I lost my cool more than once today. I hate it when my heart starts pounding and I

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-90495470909515304672011-08-03T16:16:00.003-04:002011-08-03T16:35:49.230-04:00

Whew! Another busy busy week, but it's been filled with fun stuff. The next two weeks are filled with appointments and such...not so much fun. Oh well, that's life with four kiddos I guess- I'm thankful that we have decent insurance. Jonah and Caleb are doing Junior Ranger Camp again this year, so we've been hanging out at the lake quite a lot for the past 48 hours. A lake with tons of fish.

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-35632848463010170772011-08-01T05:10:00.010-04:002011-08-06T09:03:37.326-04:00

We've had such a beautiful weekend! High temps but with much less humidity than before...which is extra awesome because my hair behaves better. Priorities, right? On Friday my Mom and I had a date at the...HOBBY LOBBY! Yay! We have an HL here in New England now! And let me just say, after going there, I totally get what all you southerners have been bragging about all these years, ha ha!  I had

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-19293139826540086882011-07-30T10:33:00.000-04:002011-07-30T10:33:59.651-04:00

I'm thrilled to read that some of you plan to make your own summer nightgown for your sweet little girls! I'd love it if you emailed me some pictures!  :) Earlier this week I brought Isabelle with me to my hairdresser's and then to the grocery store (fun fun!)- she was wearing the reversible jumper I made her, and I thought she looked pretty darn adorable. We must have been stopped by at least a

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-21511645469305585172011-07-26T20:37:00.001-04:002011-07-26T20:39:44.209-04:00

Yup. That's me. All alone. Sitting here at home. Peace and quiet. Finally! It feels so SO good. Okay, well, I just put Isabelle to bed, so I'm not technically alone. But who cares about technicalities?   :) She and I had a date with the Swan Princess. That scary dude is...well, scary! So where's everyone else? Jonah and Caleb are having sleep-overs with grandparents and being spoiled rotten,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-61767169463349246262011-07-25T08:47:00.019-04:002011-08-02T21:03:06.428-04:00

Can that title be any longer? HA!We are officially melting here in the Northeast! At least it motivates me to get in gear for day trips to the lake and beach...which is where we've been most every day for a whole week! But I'd been itching to sew up a little something too... Last week I made Isabelle a cute nightgown to help keep her cool during these sweltering nights...but it still wasn't

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-80032816705438971892011-07-19T06:31:00.002-04:002011-07-20T05:04:02.060-04:00

Okay, so I need your help!More specifically, if you live in the Dallas/McKinney area (or are familiar with it) and you're reading this right now, I need your help!Would you please tell me the best school districts (in your opinion of course) and your favorite family things to do in the area? This is probably asking a lot, but I'd be so grateful if you took the time to share that with me! Thank

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-16958183517514610602011-07-17T22:31:00.002-04:002011-07-17T22:35:30.373-04:00

Well last week certainly held a few surprises! Remember this post? Not so fun. I was both encouraged and challenged by Jenny and Heather who left such thoughtful comments for me- thanks ladies! I don't want to waste an opportunity to show Christ's love, so after thinking all week about what I should do, I've decided to write a short note apologizing for the things that seem to have bothered the

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-21113621178517388102011-07-15T05:49:00.001-04:002011-07-15T05:50:29.247-04:00

I'm so thankful...for a savior who loves and cherishes mefor his protection and comfortfor his gentleness and compassion God truly transformed our not-so-hot week! I'll share more about it later. But for now, I just had to share this... ~Little Miss in all her fashion glory~at dinner, she was wearing the dress...i was cleaning up and this is what i see a few minutes later, ha ha!it's hard to see,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-67817245513939176282011-07-13T07:19:00.000-04:002011-07-13T07:19:50.824-04:00

This is probably going to be long, knowing me. I am still so upset I waver between crying fits and spitting nails. 84 degrees. That's what the thermostat in my bedroom read yesterday at 4:38 am. Needless to say, peaceful sleeping had not been in the cards. And I was too groggy and sticky to think well enough to work on my last chapter- that's never a very good start to the day. The forecast

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-42601995354765068852011-07-11T15:32:00.002-04:002011-07-11T15:38:38.368-04:00

We had a pretty low-key weekend but it was nice. For the most part. For every fun thing there's always some meltdown or other unwanted something or other to be dealt with. I think it's wearing me out...not like the heat doesn't do a good enough job of that! I find myself still searching for that balance I mentioned in another post. I'll probably get it figured out about a week after school

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-27167939768481619202011-07-08T11:47:00.003-04:002011-07-08T11:58:18.371-04:00

This casserole is so versatile and delicious...and it's low-fat! Not only is it a great side for dinner, but our kids love it on the weekend with a big breakfast or brunch- they even eat it cold! It's that yummy! I got this recipe from an old 2006 copy of Light & Tasty magazine, and I've adapted it a little bit over the past year. Now we just love it! Here's what you need: 3 pounds yellow

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-85617205763146454272011-07-08T07:42:00.008-04:002011-07-08T08:02:34.298-04:00

First things first, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JULIE!! Smile if you're reading this! Julie is a childhood friend of mine with whom I've recently reconnected, and we were able to meet up last week at the lake for the first time in over a decade! Yes, that does make me feel old, as a matter of fact, ha... Have a wonderful day today, Julie!!   :) I'm still fairly new to the whole blogging scene, in the world of

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-3732846350046936672011-07-07T15:33:00.008-04:002011-07-07T15:38:39.249-04:00

Last week we were on the go go go, and while it was great, I know I can't trek all over the state everyday. I'm trying really hard to find the right balance between hitting the beach and days spent at home. Yesterday's at home day...not too much fun. And I even brought them to the pool after lunch for crying out loud! Today, however, I wanted things to be different. Better. Idle time for boys

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-48420615591822855412011-07-06T21:02:00.000-04:002011-07-06T21:02:12.190-04:00

Hah! I'm watching Minute to Win It with the boys and there was just a commercial on TV about your period. Ethan is over there fighting a smile while Jonah and Caleb are completely clueless. I couldn't help myself so I asked Caleb what he thought that was, and he piped up and replied, "Oh, I think that's when a girl gets really, really mad!" Hee Hee We rushed through dinner to get to the pool for

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-53989099186163076252011-07-05T15:58:00.000-04:002011-07-05T15:58:13.457-04:00

We celebrated our country's birthday with a million-mile-long adventure down the river in our canoe with Mimi and Grampy. We thought it would be fun to rig up a couple of snow tubes and drag the boys behind us- they had a BLAST! I wish I had a picture, but I was terrified of bringing my camera with us (good thing I didn't- the bottom of the canoe got soaked!) Here is part of the crew before

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-34352782817063918462011-07-03T20:40:00.005-04:002011-07-05T06:56:30.116-04:00

I must admit that pillowcase dresses aren't nearly as popular here in the northeast as they seem to be elsewhere in the country...but they are so incredibly adorable! With a new baby girl on the way, it was high time to dust off the sewing machine and get busy. I decided to gussy up the traditional pillowcase style a bit with some tiers and ruffles- what do you think? Happy July 4th!!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-81742793702318959512011-07-01T10:43:00.008-04:002011-07-01T12:42:07.644-04:00

So what gets these guys up and running for the day & is totally yummy and maybe even a little good for you?  ...A Powder Puff Pancake ie, Pam-pakeThis is our faithful go-to breakfast around here during the summer...hands-down our favorite! It's easy, quick, and there's even fruit so it has to be good for you, ha!  :) Here's what you need:1/2 cup all-purpose flour (we use unbleached flour- so

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-71706878875587267562011-06-28T22:20:00.001-04:002011-06-28T22:43:17.575-04:00

I posted a picture of our Mama Chickadee in her house a while back, but it wasn't until last week that I discovered the one sweet little egg in there. We finally saw one teeny tiny baby wriggling around in there! Just a few minutes ago, Bill and I were checking on the birdie house again, and I saw TWO little beaks squawking! I felt downright giddy! I know they're just common song birds, but

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-79329010860704208212011-06-27T11:59:00.000-04:002011-06-27T11:59:41.004-04:00

The last couple weeks of school flew by! I captured some moments to help me remember these days before we officially welcome in the summer... We may not have had the most summer-like weather for the last day of school but this goodie basket helped ease the pain a bit! And the next day was all rain too, but we sure made the most of it! Swimming, swimming & more swimming! The Xbox

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-60140386907688876512011-06-22T21:46:00.001-04:002011-06-23T08:27:20.402-04:00

If you asked my children to name the things I do that make them happy, you'd probably be laughing as hard as I am at their responses! This morning, for example, I announced that on the Day Before the Last Day of School, they were having PopTarts for breakfast...and you'd have thought I told them we were going to Disney World! They squealed and jumped up and down and thanked me no less than fifty

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-27367681515903324532011-06-20T09:14:00.001-04:002011-06-20T09:27:08.171-04:00

What a beautiful day we had for Father's Day yesterday! I was Super Mom, or rather Super Wife, and let Bill linger in bed till after 8...that's a BIG deal around here! I know how hard he works for us, and I knew he would appreciate the extra sleepy time. Bill is a wonderful father & I'm so thankful for him! We also have great Dads too- we love you Grampy & Grandpa! Caleb and Jonah were hard at

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-12066960578462245052011-06-16T09:23:00.003-04:002011-06-16T23:13:01.608-04:00

Last week after our 2-hour long homestudy visit with the social worker, Bill and I escaped up north for a little adventure...hiking West Ratttlesnake Mountain. For you locals, get on I-93 N, take exit 24, and follow US 3 toward Holderness, then left onto NH 113 East. (If you're familiar with Squam Lakes Science Center, this is a few miles beyond that.) We may have even stopped by Dunkin Donuts

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-2667899667853467752011-06-15T10:20:00.002-04:002011-06-15T10:23:45.361-04:00

...hard to cheer for both teams at once! But boy did we try our hardest during this AAA Championship Game on Sunday! I think the knots in my stomach have finally come undone! That's Caleb, #21- GO CALEB!! Here's JONAH, ready for ACTION! I hope we don't have to endure another brother vs. brother for quite some time...they handled it well, but poor Mom and Dad...not so much, ha! Jonah's team

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-83273812415332456292011-06-11T13:56:00.000-04:002011-06-11T13:56:12.695-04:00

Yesterday was a busy day...we met with our social worker early in the morning, and it went really well! Then we raced off to the Department of Safety for fingerprinting where we hit a few glitches, but we eventually got it all sorted out. And then it was time for FUN! Since he had to be home for the interview anyway, we decided it would be a great day to go hiking together. We don't get to do

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-61534438453119966992011-06-08T10:03:00.055-04:002011-07-08T07:49:50.812-04:00

Whew! We are sticky hot here in New Hampshire! It's strange to have the boys still in school when it feels so much like summer already...that's the thing when you have so many snow days during the loooooong winter! Just a couple weeks ago we were complaining about being so soggy, and now....everything is crunchy! Time to cool off...our neighborhood pool won't be open for at least another 2 weeks

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-13220418454857137762011-06-05T22:45:00.000-04:002011-06-05T22:45:24.186-04:00

Another busy weekend behind us, and I feel like I need one all over again just to recover!  Baseball, parties, housework, more baseball, more parties (that's a funny story!), writing, sewing, and navigating all this computer-y stuff that I'm no good at. Calgon, take me awaaaaaaayyyyy! It's late, I should be sleeping already because, well, 4:40 AM comes awfully quick, but my mind is racing- don't

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-72687964499282166192011-06-02T14:50:00.002-04:002011-06-02T23:09:38.139-04:00

Well, maybe not WOW for anyone else, but it sure is for me! I've been working on some things for several weeks now, and I think I'm ready to share with the world....and I'm NERVOUS!!!!!!  Please like me, okay? Thanks!  :) Head on over HERE to see what all the fuss is about...and please be kind- I'm new at this and I'm not very good! And if I can ever figure out how to add the Facebook Like Box,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-76196590664266562552011-06-01T12:05:00.000-04:002011-06-01T12:05:48.681-04:00

What a fun-filled weekend we had! We enjoyed our first official trek to the lake on Sunday afternoon and had a cook-out that evening...there's really nothing better! The next morning we were up bright and early (well, that wasn't actually the plan, ha) so we headed downtown for the Memorial Day Parade, where I took no less than a thousand pictures. Maybe not, but it sure felt that way

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-18415590140601297222011-05-27T21:39:00.000-04:002011-05-27T21:39:27.967-04:00

What a beautiful couple of days we've had here in New England! A bit hot for my taste, but I'm trying not to complain after enduring 12+ days of rain before. I'm a little nervous about how everyone is going to sleep- the thermostat is registering 86 degrees upstairs...yikes! Right now, Isabelle Kate is in bed, and the three boys are in the family room with me watching....The A-Team, ha ha!  I

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-54046081718422801832011-05-26T08:00:00.003-04:002011-05-26T08:03:17.212-04:00

This handsome guy had to wear a tie to school today (yesterday now...blogger issues, sigh). For two weeks, he worked hard writing different poems for a school assignment, and today all the students got to stand up in front of the class to recite some of their work from their poetry scrapbook. I can honestly say this is the first project ever that I had absolutely nothing to do with! He did

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-25521570618266534612011-05-23T10:24:00.001-04:002011-05-24T07:09:05.861-04:00

Happy Monday! We had another whirlwind weekend of baseball games and house project stuff. There were multiple trips to the city dump involved. Hmmm? you wonder. I'll share later...the suspense will kill you, I'm sure! I've got a snarky Caleb home with me today, and I'm listening to the compromising skills of an 8-year-old and a 4-year-old downstairs. Let's just clarify- the 4 year-old hasn't

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-9805081925407027572011-05-20T10:19:00.001-04:002011-05-24T08:22:35.768-04:00

Yesterday was a busy day!  It was a little bit of anxious, exciting, nerve-wracking, and hopeful all rolled into one, ha! I don't think I've shared on the blog that for several weeks now I've been hard at work on creating an adoption ministry at our church.  It can be daunting, mainly because I feel so inadequate, but God is ever faithful and equips me where I need it. (Which is just about

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-46792704567385325042011-05-16T18:39:00.003-04:002011-05-16T20:53:50.776-04:00

Where to begin, where to begin...this is an incredibly busy month for us between school concerts, baseball practices & games, class projects & field trips, and a whole myriad of other exciting {sometimes} things.  Yes, in case you didn't notice from my last post, we are indeed adopting another child....yippee!!!!...so we're even busier!  I'll be sharing more about our adoption plans later.   =)

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-12426080544334722382011-05-08T15:58:00.003-04:002011-05-08T16:07:57.161-04:00

Happy Mother's Day! This morning, I relaxed while Bill did the lion's share of the work, and we even got out the door early so we could take some post-Easter Easter pics.  Ha!  I wasn't laughing at the time, no no no-  for a variety of reasons, I never got any pictures of all of the kiddos together on Easter Sunday.  So that extra effort - and the fact that we made everyone wear the same outfits

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-56403544626488731282011-05-04T12:19:00.000-04:002011-05-04T12:19:39.343-04:00

Do you know those days when you just wake up raring to go, ready to tackle the full day ahead? Yeah, me too.  But today wasn't one of them. It really isn't even just a morning thing.  Lately I feel like for every half step forward there are about a half dozen backward.  God is calling me to do something, and I want to do it- I really want to!- but I can't see how.  And I'm scared out of my

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-82781541495223129602011-05-02T18:27:00.001-04:002011-05-03T09:01:08.246-04:00

I wish I could say we had a fantastic week off from school, but...the truth is, everyone was cranky and grouchy and generally not that nice.  It wasn't the week of my dreams, that's for sure. We had a brief moment of cooperation on Monday afternoon, so I surprised the kiddos with a trip to Wendy's and a picnic at the park.  It was drizzling, so we took cover in a baseball dugout while we ate...

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-1039506992817106542011-04-28T09:01:00.000-04:002011-04-28T09:01:12.454-04:00

I meant to post this last week, when it happened; but life happens too, and I've fallen so far behind! On Thursday, Isabelle's preschool class was hosting a Teddy Bear Picnic AND it was...Pajama Day!  Oh the cuteness!  Mimi knitted this beautiful pink dress for Isabelle when we were waiting for her to come home- she found the teddy bear and couldn't resist, so she put the dress on the bear, and

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-23596646303207595492011-04-20T15:51:00.001-04:002011-04-20T15:55:24.515-04:00

Happy Wednesday!  It's a cold and UNsunny day here, but boy, did we have a productive day! Jonah's 4th grade class was hosting their all-school meeting bright and early this morning at 8 am.  Okay, so admittedly that isn't that early, but when you're used to hanging out in your bathrobe till 10...um yeah, we were putting a wiggle in it!  And we were right on time. ha, guess it doesn't matter to

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-88722048562503417512011-04-15T09:49:00.002-04:002011-04-15T09:53:57.732-04:00

Thank you for your kind comments and emails regarding our cousin Josh and his family.  We really appreciate it!! I honestly can't believe today is Friday.  These weeks are just flying by!  Don't get me wrong- sometimes the days linger on end, if you know what I mean.  But the weeks?  It seems they're over before they even begin!  Tonight is the first baseball game of the season for Jonah and

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-91079086897872711792011-04-12T06:23:00.001-04:002011-04-12T06:27:27.915-04:00

We received word last night that one of Bill's younger cousins has been given 2-3 years to live due to a rapidly-growing cancerous brain tumor. His name is Josh, he's married and has three beautiful children.  His youngest daughter was born just a few months ago.  We are all devastated.  Would you please pray for them as they face numerous difficult decisions in the coming weeks and months? 

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-38123067309020860852011-04-10T07:52:00.001-04:002011-04-10T17:12:26.746-04:00

It all started with these...Personalized "Date Cards" taped to the kids' bathroom mirror one morning I knew the exact moment they discovered them because I heard STOMP STOMP STOMP, whisper whisper whisper, STOMP STOMP STOMP... Later I found out they'd been running back and forth in search of a pen to circle their response, ha!These have been proudly displayed on their bedroom window ever since  =

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-755838344136102742011-04-08T13:50:00.002-04:002011-04-10T07:40:58.386-04:00

Some random {happy} snapshots of life these days. Ethan made us yummy Corn Bread from scratchsoloI was very impressed  =) cute little girls playing and giggling ditching boots for sneakersand meeting friends to go for long walksoh wait, my friend ditched me!you know who you are!  hee hee cuh-razy schedules are upon us yet againbut I love watching my kiddos play! healthy lunch mixed greens with

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-19731481717548064972011-04-05T10:10:00.001-04:002011-04-05T10:12:41.466-04:00

I have to be honest and admit that I'm a very curious gal.  Maybe that's the nicer way of calling myself nosy.  Listening to someone's story, hearing about the things that stir their hearts, checking out how they decorate their homes- hey, keepin' it real here- inspires me.  It addresses that void inside me that longs for connection, the void God placed in each of us. So in the spirit of

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-79119375300111798192011-04-04T08:32:00.001-04:002011-04-04T08:36:23.721-04:00

 My eyes have been opened.I now know things I didn't know before.Or maybe never realized until now. And because you asked so nicely, I will impart my wisdom with you. In no particular order...There is such a thing as too much fiber.Sorry...was that too much information? Cats, more specifically, cat's whiskers, are not flame retardant.And well, some cats are pyromaniacs.I never knew that. Grocery

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-23633569437281280652011-04-01T05:44:00.007-04:002011-04-02T22:42:34.403-04:00

 Hi, I'm Bethany, and I'm so glad you're here! If you visit often, thank you!  You rock!  I have enjoyed getting to know each one of you & you make my day that much brighter! If you're new here, welcome!  I hope you'll browse around and come back to visit again!**updated** I must apologize for monopolizing the linky lists at the party- I jumped the gun linking up only to realize I'd joined the

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-75158995209365198192011-03-27T12:41:00.002-04:002011-03-27T14:04:20.536-04:00

Every Thursday that rolls around lately, I find myself marveling at how quickly the weeks keep going by.  I feel like I need a giant pause button!  Well, maybe I wouldn't go that far....we have cabin fever something fierce and it's taking its toll on our, um, cooperative spirits.  One in particular is pushing me to my limits.  How we pray for that dear one, oh, but it is so draining! I thought

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-9381428673914833272011-03-24T08:47:00.002-04:002011-03-24T08:50:55.724-04:00

Wow, some days are just that spectacular.  And others...are not. Yesterday was more of the are not variety. By 2 pm I was ready to crawl into bed and hide.  For my life. Oh wait, I did that.  They still found me.  And bugged me. Let me back up.  It was all my fault.  I kept one child home for preventive measures, which turned out to be a colossal waste.  Another was gagging on phlegm- sorry,

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-50794505696556281222011-03-22T09:19:00.002-04:002011-04-04T09:48:53.671-04:00

I was all set to post these pictures... ...about our less-than-welcome First Day of Spring. Butthen I read this post over at my friend Mel's blogand decided I really had nothing to complain about. We have all the essentials we need and then some. Please go visit and be moved to do something!

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-88542952906433499792011-03-21T08:19:00.002-04:002011-03-21T08:40:42.218-04:00

There's nothing like warmer temps and a little sunshine to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step.  We've practically lived outside the past several days!  I'm glad, too, because the forecast is calling for 1-3 inches of the cold white stuff later today.  I know it won't stick around long, but it's still such a morale killer, ha! These two just crack me up!  Sneaks and Luke are never

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-31215970626126325682011-03-15T09:31:00.008-04:002011-03-23T08:28:09.320-04:00

I just realized I never finished posting about turning a basic lined jumper into a two-sided wonder!  Well, wonder, maybe not.  But absolutely adorable and sweet?  Definitely!  I hope this helps those of you who emailed me with questions! Here is Side A And this is Side B, ha! The pattern called for a basic lining, but it seemed like such a great opportunity to make it reversible without {much}

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-2899307854843781712011-03-14T15:20:00.000-04:002011-03-14T15:20:10.676-04:00

This weekend we got to celebrate Jonah's birthday with family Jonah wanted a chocolate cake with chocolate frosting.  That's my boy!  I upped the ante by adding chopped up Reeces Peanut Butter Cups and adding a spoonful of peanut butter to the frosting layer in the middle.  Then I added cocoa powder to the remaining butter cream frosting to finish it off.  Yum-my! I tried getting a nice pic

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4750685058563349686.post-30265439496906927982011-03-11T11:02:00.011-05:002011-04-08T13:56:57.335-04:00

A big hello & welcome to you if you're visiting from Kelly's Korner!Thanks for stopping by today...you can read more about our parties if you want by clicking on the labels on the sidebar- thanks! I know our family isn't as big as some, but it seems that in our house we're always planning for and celebrating a birthday!  Here is a look at some of our favorites over the years... In 2009 our oldest

Bethany @ 3SonsPlus1...and...http://www.blogger.com/profile/18121947461101222394noreply@blogger.com3