Lift You

Today God spoke to my heart, through a conversation, with our son, Lane. He will be three next month. It was lunchtime and Lane wanted croutons on his salad (just like his daddy).

-- Our conversation --

Mommy: Lane, can you grab the croutons down off of the shelf for me, please?

Lane: Yeah! I get it. I can get them. 

(He opens the bi-fold pantry doors and realizes they are out of reach.)

Lane: I can't get it. I'm not big enough.

(He is disappointed by this current reality.) 

(Without hesitation or doubt, I cheerfully respond, as I move in Lane's direction.)

Mommy: I will lift you up. I will help you reach!

It wasn't a moment later God said to me: This is what I do for you. I will always lift you up! I will always help you to reach! 

Psalm 23 is one of the most said prayers of all times: The LORD is my shepherd. He leads me in paths of righteousness. I will fear no evil. I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Oh how He knows us! He knows how to speak to us! How to reach us! Yes, there's a good chance we've uttered Psalm 23 at least once or twice. Perhaps we've heard it in the movies. But God knows when we need to be reminded of it. And that's what He did today. He met me in my kitchen!!! He reassured me that my leap of faith wouldn't be with out His love, lifting and his helping me to reach. He is my shepherd. He leads me in the path of righteousness! Thank you Jesus!

In His Love,
Brooke

Joyful June full of greatness and His glory!

Dear Boys,

Another three months have flown by. Mason you're now just over two and Lane you quickly approaching the eight month marker. Each moment spent with you both brings about joys inexplicable to the English language. Knowing that Daddy and I created you still leaves be in awe. It is our pleasure to share the world in which we know it and let you develop into your own.

In April, an extended trip to see Nanna Boo and Bear Paw and Uncle Nate and Aunt Kim up in Wisconsin was our highlight. We were blessed with spending quality time with some very near and dear friends as well. A play date with Uncle Nate, Aunt Kim and her other nephew, Ethan, had you boys tromping through the tall grass. Melissa and Mitchell played ball with us outside one beautiful afternoon. Garrett and Rebbecca came up for snuggles, giggles and wiggles.

(Saturday 4/7/2012) Easter was a special afternoon spent over at Aunt Kim and Uncle Nate's. They had a beautifully decorated table to celebrate the spirit of Easter and the Jesus' resurrection! Hallelujah! The meal was so thoughtfully put together and such a memorable time. We are truly grateful to the hosting skills of Aunt Kim! She and Uncle Nate too, are wonderful chefs in the kitchen! After the meal, Mason, Mommy, Aunt Kim and NB went over to Uncle Jim's where we hiked around his backyard and spent some time quielty missing Aunt Sue, whom passed away a few weeks before Lane was born.

(My poor little Lane, you had some no. 2  issues; however, everyone was on-board and doing their best to make you feel more comfortable and eventually better.)

Lacey, Bri and Peyton spent a Saturday night with all of us catching up. Mason, you warmed up to Peyton with the familiarity of an old friend, which is exactly what you are -- old friends. You sweetly grabbed her little hand and took her around the house to play with you. It was the sweetest expression of innocent kindness. We also Facetimed Daddy that night. Mason, it was the first time you really got into video chatting. You were beyond excited to see Daddy! Lane, you were our rolly little guy. So happy to be surrounding by people who loved you.

Easter Sunday (after BP and Mommy drove into town early to get you some goodies Lane, to benefit your health) was a relaxing day. That morning we hid eggs filled with jelly beans and tangerine slices. Mason, you didn't tire of searching! Uncle Jim even came out to witness your mission. You'd bend over or get down all fours quickly learning that the eggs that rattled hosted the sweet treats instead of the fruit! This hunting happines lasted for more than an hour. Mason, you'd take turns bringing the booty back to NB and BP. It was precious! No need to toys or other goodies in your Easter basket -- those little eggs were the ticket! We also spent the day outdoors, playing with the chickens and soaking up fresh country air. On Monday, what a neat treat -- Mason, you received swimming lessons from Uncle Nate and Aunt Kim at the YMCA. Lane, you and I snuggled together -- you napped -- oh-so-sweetly, while your brother became Nemo. It was so much fun for me to witness the care and love your aunt and uncle have for you, especially while teaching you water fun!

Grandma came home one day with a load of goodies: a new Cars pottey chair, some little books, a noise push popper and a rolling turtle. There was so much fun to be had with this gifts of fun and love!

The week continued on with fun to be had. Tuesday we had a pizza party over at Uncle Jim's. Mason -- you fell in love with his fiesta ranch dip and veggies. It was great! Lane, you loved to babble and smile at Uncle Jim. Mutual feelings of love and elation were shared between you!! Boys -- we had our first official play date with the Harmsen kiddies -- Alexius & Adian. Upon entering their home, Mason, you were giving out hugs. It made Mommy's heart melt! They had tractors and push-toys and room to roam! Mason you had a blast. We had lunch together and even nap time. This was your FIRST slumber in a big-boy-bed: a guard rail versus the crib rail. (We called to tell Daddy about this and he got you all set up at home in a similar fashion.) We played outback on their swing set. Mason you climbed the stairs to their big swirl slide and went down all on your own. When we said our goodbyes, toddler hugs were given out with ease.

That week we also took a trip to visit NB's yoga class and her elementary school. Each time we were able to enjoy playground adventures after bringing smiles to her friends. I have to admit, there isn't a playground challenge we haven't conquered, within reason. Mason, as Aunt Kim put it, "You are sure-footed."

Friday, April 13 was a reaon to celebrate! Mason, mommy threw you a "Choo-Choo, Mason is turning Two" themed party with the help of Auntie Kim. She made the cutest cupcakes with train cars on top and delicious rice krispie treats. They helped to keep you outside, as Mommy cooked a Mexican meal and finished the final preparations. Uncle Jim brought over your new-found love from Tuesday. You gobbled up those veggies and dip like they were going out of style!

The Harmsen family also came over to help us celebrate your unique, precious, special you, Mason! You kiddies spent time running around the loop from the kitchen to the living room. Blowing out your candles was also a highlight. Your little breath was able to muster up enough air to blow out those star candles, twice! Gift opening was a blast, as you enthusatically gasp for air with such excitment! A tractor, a fishing pole with magnetic fish, a remote control car, a train whistle, a pottey book, a kite and a bubble blower!

(I wrote this in June of 2012 --- it is Feb. 2013, and I'm just returning to click the publish button!)

The Complete Guide to Imperfect Homemaking: 99 ways to Simplify life with Kids

The Complete Guide to Imperfect Homemaking: 99 ways to Simplify life with Kids: I am all about the simple things in life.  Simple doesn't mean easy, it just means uncomplicated. The simple life is a pursuit of the...

March Madness...just because it's been so long...

Dear Boys,

Sitting down, is something we reserve only for eating, these days. Other than that, we've been nonstop. With unseasonably warm temps the playtime has increased tremendously, which all of us our thankful for -- cabin fever had just set in.

You both have been to the zoo, twice! Once just the three of us. Another time Aunt Hilary and Uncle Jordan came too! Mason, you love, love, love the hippos and the fish (that eat the poop in the tank)! HA! Plus a baby elephant was born this year and that captivated your attention for several minutes. The butterfly house had you swatting at them as they fluttered by! So precious! Mason, you are our nature boy, through and through! You are so content at heart being outdoors as you challenge your body and mind.

Lane, you're equally as giddy in the outdoors. You already love the big boys swing or chilling on the trampoline out back. Your little arms and legs just get a kickin', moving and dancing! All the while, you make spitting zerbert noises! Too sweet!

I think there are teeth working their way in for you Lane. As much as you drench your bibs and Tee's, I something thing we could gather up that saliva and water our plants! HA!

You're currently 5 months and 1 week. You are almost out growing 9 month clothing. The pants are too short, that's for certain! Following in your brother's footsteps, you too, are Capt. Long Legs!

Mason, you're able to continue to wear size 24 month shorts/pants. However, your long, lean, torso...actually you've got a stomach build like your Uncle Nate's -- barrel tummy chested -- has got you shooting right past 2T and ready for 3T or larger!

Your hair cut, a few months ago, was a major milestone for all of us! Your long curls were definitely missed. However, your handsome, low-profile cut, made you look all grown up and still as cute as can be! In fact, you're ready for a trim. Your poofy hair has us dubbing you a "Kennedy." I love it!

You love to shake your head, "Yes," all the time now. You have a dance party to Rihanna, "We Found Love." Or bumpin' hip-hop tunes! What's even cuter is, you whole-heartely acknowledge "your" songs and begin to celebrate by dancing without prompt. Also, you prefer the songs to be on repeat, for continuous fun!

Lane, you're constantly reaching, gripping (with the strength of a grown man), pinching (this is new, as of today, on my face!), looking all around, arching yourself in various positions and chilling with your feet propped up on your bouncy chair! It's hilarious!

You've got the most amazing eye color! It's a replica of a slab or granite or fish scales shimming under the sun's glow! You have the sweetest, most kissable cheeks!

Mason, mommy started giving you a back massage when she puts you in bed at night. You lay down, so content like, and then snuggle with your "woobie." You giggle most times when I get to the top of your shoulder/neck. It's beyond precious! You also willing give out hugs and kisses anytime, especially before bed. This sweetness is extended to all present! It's the best feeling to watching you give our extended family members hugs and kisses!

Lately, you've been quite into playful wrestling. You've got a lot of energy to burn and you stay slim and trim, even if you've become a selective eater...preferring health carbs! The other night you were kicking daddy and exclaiming, "High-yahg!" It was hilarious! Uncle Nate said he thinks you're going to be athletic, for during their recent visit, you were actively showing off, by running all around here in an energetic and almost parkour fashion.

You both have been able to spend some quality time with your Zabel aunts and uncles, as daddy and I spent a little away time. They all enjoyed playing with you and shared the unfolding events of their time with you. It's wonderful to have them love you both so! Mason, Aunt H & Uncle J brought you bubbles and some Thomas puzzles. Uncle J took you for a stroller ride too. Aunt H cooked you several gourmet meals. However, to prompt you to eat your veggies, she creatively threw in a few blueberries to entice you! Uncle N built you a tunnel out of boxes. You loved navigating this arena and took Thomas the Train through several times too! Aunt K worked on sounds, words and educational fun stuff. She also got you to successful eat a Mexican pizza! Yeahhh! Lane, you have been snuggled, changed, bathed and been given lots of TLC by all your aunts and uncles!

Lane, you sport the BIGGEST smile whenever you wake up. And even if you get woken up too soon, you SMILE BIG, with eye contact, roll your head to get comfy and doze off again. It's pure sweetness. Especially since your cheeks are taking over your sweet face! HA!

Mason, you skinned your knee, a little bit, playing out back on the patio. You are SO tough. You got right up and kept on! We attribute this to your purposefully clumsy acrobatics around the house! You like the ups, downs and all around challenges! The harder the obstacle course, the better. Mason, you can easily navigate all park slides solo! It's such a big step! And almost hard to believe!

Your daddy and I talk about you both all the time, when you're fast asleep. As you continue to amaze us daily or were soaking up all the "little things" with each of you, we love to rehash them over. Sometimes, I even re-watch the videos I recorded of you, just hours prior. We just can't get enough! :o)

My three boys like to hang out in the garage together. If daddy has a quick project, you're both happy to go out there and meddle right along with him. It's so heart-warming to witness!

Lane you had slept through the night for about a week. Right now you'll get up at least once and sometimes twice. No biggie, Mason did that too! Our big boys, they gotta eat! HA!

Mason you'll carry your shoes around when you're ready to play outside. You know how to turn the handles on the doors and head outside. And if the deadbolt is locked, you're bright enough to realize, "Hey, I've gotta get this lock undone." You haven't successfully defeated the lock yet...but it's only a matter of time!

Lane, you seem so advanced, as you talk and make all sorts of noises. You often croon after a nap. Your little melon with look this way and that, or even behind you, as you arch to see what's happening all around you! If we appear, and smile at you, you smiles BIGGER, right back -- it's what "mommy moments" are made of!

Last night, Mason, you were in quite the playful mood. Mommy was taking a breather on the couch. You'd barrel over and crash into me and then turn around, jog off and them come right on back. It was like a mini basketball drill with a football tackle at the end. The best part was the ginormous smiles and giggles that erupted with each "sack of this quarterback!" You've also become more relaxed, in that you're willing to snuggle in the evenings with us and watch a little tube. It's such a highlight of anyone's! As we love the sweet smell of your hair, your soft toddler skin and the calm that entered your body, for those brief, timeless and precious moments!

Mason, you like to play bubbles, trains, trucks, hide and seek, "Don't get me. Don't get me," bath time stuff and read books. In fact, we'll sit together (daddy too) and we will read your favorite animal picture book. You like to point out animals for us to label. And when asked, you too, can determine which animal is which. Such a big boy! :o)

Lane, you're easy to make laugh -- "boo's, achoo's and tee-hee-hee's" all work to make you chuckle! We love it!

Mason, the other night you didn't want to stop swinging and began to fuss at the mention of bath time. However, a quick serenade of "Whoomp! There it is!" from Aunt Hilary, lifted your spirits immediately. It was quite hilarious! You loved her fast-talking jive! Ha!

(3/28/12) This morning we had an appointment. Mommy was loading up the car and getting ready to head out. Lane had only eaten half of his bottle....well, BIG BRO to the rescue. I turned around, and there was Mason, feeding BABY BRO his well deserved meal! Such teamwork between you too -- a good feeder and a good eater!

Everyday is such a blessing! Mommy and Daddy are enjoying the journey of family. We love one another and you both, so very much! You bring such happiness, light and laughter to our hearts and souls! Two little boys, our miracles -- you are our one and only(s)!

XOXO Love, from the very bottom of our hearts,

Mommy & Daddy

Precious Moments

It's hard to believe just how fast my precious children are growing. It still amazes me daily that I am the mother to these beloved, sweet, cuddly, lovable, little boys. I feel like I was BORN to be a mommy and share in the daily laughs, fun playtimes, giggles, imagination exploration, hugging, sing-song days that fall upon this family.

I wrote this back in January! Today is 3-27-12! My days are truly blessed and busy!

70 days a new family love

Lane 10 weeks. Mason 20 months.

Oh, how there is so much to say and so little time to type. I'm busy as can be with my two little boys -- all that loving takes time.

When we brought you (Lane) home from the hospital, Mason, you hardly noticed you had a new brother. It wasn't but a few days later and you, were trying to hold his hand or pet his head.

Lane you've been such an easy baby. Since the beginning, you've been sporting a sweet smile, which has grown to be cherub-like! Daddy can't stop kissing your face! Me too! I'm so fortunate I get to be with you both, each waking moment...and the sleepily ones two! There is nothing more precious than watching you sleep. I often sneak in and watch you both! It melts my heart!

Every couple of days Mr. Mason will randomly, without prompt, share his "lovings" on Lane. It the sweetest thing to witness. Oh how I love to see you kiss your baby brother and then come up crinkle smiling with a "...that tickled," grin!

Mason, when you want us to get you something, you still try to grab for our hands sometimes. In the early days of Lane being home, you grabbed onto his hand because you knew he was an extension of mommy. And if you wanted to get results you were gonna be sure Lane was up and getting you a snack.

It's been such fun watching you grow Lane. You're getting to be a plump, healthy thickness -- that pudgy baby face is so kissable. Mason, you got a slide for X-mas, among other neat gifts! It took you only a day to figure out how to handle climbing up, swinging your legs around and sliding down. You're such a big boy. You jabber and use hand gestures often -- in true conversation style. You love playing in the tub! Whenever Lane sneezes you laugh, Mason. You giggle at your movies too. You look to us for supportive laughter and smiles, which we so warmly give you! It's fun to watch you push your trucks and trains around. You love to demo tall stack of building blocks. Climbing on daddy, diving into the pillows or running around the living room in a sporty game of hide-n-seek prove to keep you highly entertained.

If we kindly ask you, for a kiss, a hug or both, you'll sometimes give them happily. Other times you shy away and wrinkle your face, as to say, "Awhhhhh, man! Not right now." It's sweet either way!

Lane, you quickly outgrew most of your little clothing. At 2.5 months you've been wearing size 3 or 6 months. Keeping in true baby Cowell fashion, just like your brother, you've made some real messes in your diaper that require lots of bathing! But it's just so darn cute to watch you kick around in the tub. You like to be naked! You talk to us and do this "whole body" chuckle/giggle/grin. It is as memorable as can be!

Lane shows his love for the sink, during a New Year's Eve visit to Branson!

These past 70 days as a family have been filled with such love and laughter. There's been some misadventures too! A day filled with nothing but diaper changes and baths, back-to-back, for both of you! Plus some cold coffee dumped on the couch cushion! Oh how comical it all is. Mr. Mason is Mr. Curious. You'll get into anything and check it out. You grabs mom's cell phone and hold it up to your ear. Or Mason, you'll try to comb your own hair.

Mason, you'll eat lots of veggies, pizza, pancakes, toast and jelly. You seem to really love cucumbers and tomatoes right now. On occasion, I can entice you to eat a sweet potato. You still like BBQ sauce. Other than that, you pretty much refuse all the good cooking mommy's been whipping up in the kitchen. But that's ok. Nanna Boo got you these awesome vitamins. Oh, but when Uncle J and I made sugar cookies, you snatched on off the countertop...you took off running and giggling. You thought you were pretty darn slick. It was hilarious!

Nov. flew right on by. Thanksgiving was fun-filled as Nanna Boo, Aunt Kim and Uncle Nate came to visit. Despite Mason seemingly a bit under the weather, he still managed to have some great fun with his relatives.

Inseparable -- Mason and his Nanna Boo!

Nanna Boo and Mason love playing outside!

During December, to celebrate your new brother, we took you to Monkey Joe's, The Magic House and the condo. You've had quite the fun lately! Daddy took Mason on a special trip to Silver Dollar City! You got the biggest charge out of the lighted tree that had "The Polar Express" soundtrack. You giggled in amusement. At the pool, you thought it was funny to drink the water!

Great big smiles at Monkey Joe's!

Train Engineer at The Magic House!

Comical actions and water drinking!

The other night you were unpacking your bag, from the condo trip. Mason, you knew just where to put your clothes -- back into the draw! Too funny! You just got new "Toy Story" themed dinnerware and cordinating drink cup. You are thrilled about using them! You still enjoy your paci and your "woobie" during relaxing time and for bedtime.

Lane, what else can I mention about you...you and your brother both bring such joy to this home. We all love to cuddle up and watch a movie together! Lane, you always burp twice after eating. HA! You get a big kick out of your play mat and hanging toys that Grandma and Pa Cowell got you! You also like to watch Mason, as we all do.

This evening, Mason, you came up and started stroking Lane's head. So precious, as always. Then you grabbed my nose. Too funny! So I said, "Hey! You got mommy's nose!" And what do you do? You come over and give me an eskimo kiss aka nosieies! It was priceless!

There's much more to write about...but I'm going to wrap it up for now. I'll be back soon and that's a promise!

XOXO

ME

Toddler Times:

We took our last little family trip down to Branson around Sept. 8, 2011. To give you a break from traveling, Mason, we stopped off at Bass Pro Shop in Springfield, IL. You were all about exploring the giant fish tanks and sprinting around the store, while hanging onto our hands. We even went up and down the stairs several times and watched some little ducks play in the water. You were so thrilled!!! If we took you away for the fish tank, you navigated yourself right back to it -- and this store is enormous! It was an impressive journey! There was a few times, I seriously thought you were going to just take off running by yourself. (You have been walking but always holding onto someone's hand for that little extra support.)

It wasn't just two days later, on Sept. 10, you took your first solo steps down at the condo!!! Mommy and Daddy were so elated! We even managed to catch you on camera! You were being a little shyster to boot! Daddy and Mommy would ask you not to touch the TV/stereo electronics but you did anyway. You thought it was a game -- humorous even -- when we told you, "No."

Cute story: One day Mommy was getting ready to take you outside to play. You noticed her sunglasses on top of her head. So you started talking about wanting to wear yours. It was the cutest thing. Although your words were a bit jumbled, I knew exactly what you were requesting: "Can I wear my shades Mommy?"

Ever since those first steps, you've been getting stronger and stronger! It's been so amazing to watch you grow. You still say please and pat your little chest when you want a drink, fruit snacks or other goodies. It's currently Oct. 17, one day past your sibling's due date. When you are hungry you either grab onto our fingers and pull us over to the kitchen or go to your high-chair and attempt to crawl in. You still like to grunt and point a lot. It's precious!

In attempt to get up onto your feet, I've caught you bent over on all fours. You'll even stop to look between your legs for a bit before getting upright. You love to push your Match-Box-Cars around the house. Thomas the Train is your favorite bath toy. Daddy can make you giggle the best. You love to wrestle around, ride on his back, climb on him and play! He can tickle you and give your zerberts on your tummy and you just giggle and giggle.

You started saying, "Da-da," about a month ago or so. It was a weekend were we helped daddy prep for deer season. You were in your high chair, daddy was in the garage and you just blurted it out. "Ma-ma," and "Ba-ba," still seem to be your favorite catch phrases...but you throw daddy's name in there for good measure.

We've taken you back down to the farm a few times and have let you hang out in the driver's seat more and more. Whether you're actually driving or while the car is in park, you LOVE to be behind the steering wheel. You be-bop around, bounce up and down and babble, all the while attempting to push various radio buttons.

I took you to the PEDS office on Oct. 4. You weighed 27 lbs. and are 33" tall! Big boy! :o) With lots of hair! You weren't feeling so well -- some allergies were bothering you. We had just returned from a quick trip to WI. You played in the fall leaves, chased the chickens around, enjoyed eating apples from the orchard -- all by yourself! You snuggled with Grandma and Grandpa. You had the BEST time rolling around on their new mattress. You were as happy as can be!

Last week you helped me spruce up our car to get it ready for the new baby. Helping me wash up the floor mats with a scrub brush and bucket was a favorite chore for you! You managed to stay fairly dry, with a little help from mommy. Otherwise, you were content crawling around different parts of the car -- you're such a great helper!

You acknowledged and understand so much these days. Mommy said, "Mason, Mommy and Daddy are going to be bringing a new baby home soon." You listened so intently and then looked around the house, as if to gesture, "Where is the baby?" It was priceless!

You know what birds are and love to point them out! You know what pumpkins are. You enjoy playing in your sandbox and being outside. Last night, we went for a walk in the new subdivision by our house. You stopped several times to pick up rocks along the way. Sometimes you'd kneel down in the gutter and place the rocks up on the curb. You just love to play!

You love the train DVD Grandpa Cowell got you! You request to watch it every morning and you smile real big, with your pacifier in, when the song starts up! To see your face light up with anticipation every morning is the best part about my day! :o)

We've been watching "The X Factor" a show about finding musical talent. You'll get into the performances and start "raising the roof" with your little hands. It's too cute. I've even videoed you line dancing. Some times you just wiggle your middle around, for no reason.

Sometimes, when I come to wipe off your hands and face, after eating, you lean your body and head all the way over to one side. I don't know why, but it's cute seeing you lie your head down on your tray like that. Other times you shake your little blonde curls back and forth or just start talking to the ceiling about this and that. You also like to cover your face with your hands and play bashful when it's time for clean up.

You are definitely a Grandpa Cowell's boy! Whenever you see him, you start kicking your legs like crazy and get sport the happiest of faces! When he has to leave, you pout your little lip and even whine/cry a bit. It's adorable!

You like to play hide and seek with the pillows from our bed. You'll climb around on the floor and snuggle in and smile and giggle, as we come to get you. Sometimes you get really in to it and end up bonking your head, which is never fun for anyone!

You avoid having your diaper changed or getting dressed. You think it's a game and you'll try to escape from us and then lay flat down on the floor, trying to blend in with your surroundings. It's too funny to watch you avoid us...not as funny when we try to get you ready for bed...but that's ok...we get through it.

Things you love: fruit snacks, dried cranberries, Nilla Wafers, pancakes/waffles and syrup, oatmeal and homemade applesauce, fruit, baby snack bars, raisins, etc.

Things we love about Mason: EVERYTHING!

Mommy can't think of anything else right now. So she'll check back in again soon. And we'll be a family of four! Wowie! Are you ready Mason? I hope so! We love you lots!