Rockin' with the Kemps

Easter 2010

2010-04-12T14:31:00.003-06:00

Soaking it in.

2009-06-16T12:59:00.002-06:00

Last night marked the finale of Luke's first tball season. Therefore, we headed to Chuck-E-Cheese to celebrate after the game. As PK and I sat at the table eating our pizza with Ben and little Lulu at our sides, watching our little man be the life of the party among his friends....Patrick smiled and asked, "did you ever think we'd be here." My response...."Babe, this is where I've dreamt of being my entire life!" Seriously, since I was probably Kate's age this is what my heart has longed to do. And now that I'm here it is so so different than I imagined. The responsibility is so much greater, and the love and the pull on my heart is far too great for words. And I find myself rushing through it and wishing this sweet time away. Get the laundry done. Pick up the toys. Cook a meal. Clean the kitchen. Clean the kids. Naptime. Bedtime. and on and on and on. So, I've decided to just soak it all in. Last night when my little 3 year old cuddle bug snuck out of his bed into mine...rather than hurry him back to bed as I normally do
...I rolled over and held him as tight as I could...because, I know that he won't be his precious lovable self sneaking into my bed for "cuddles" forever.

My Easter Babies

2009-04-13T20:19:00.002-06:00

Easter is here.

2009-04-10T20:57:00.003-06:00

I have loved sharing this Easter season with my boys. The wonder in their eyes and the concern in their hearts as we've discussed Palm Sunday and Good Friday and Easter has been such a joy. I have loved over hearing them recounting the events to one another as they lay in their beds trying to fall asleep. They love their Jesus and they are amazed at the price he paid for their lives. I have sensed such a tenderness in both of them as they soak in truth. I love telling Ben the story of Easter and watching his jaw drop and eyes pop as we find a stone rolled away and an empty tomb. The Easter bunny will come to our house on Sunday morning, and we will get dolled up for church and hunt for eggs, but the real message of Easter will be what makes our eyes pop and our jaws drop. Jesus is Alive!

And baby makes 6!!!!!

2009-03-07T22:24:00.002-06:00

So, we are having a baby. Kemp baby number 4 is coming this fall. We are thoroughly shocked. We are thoroughly delighted. My heart has been in so many different places over the past few days. And has finally settled on complete joy. The Lord has reminded me that although I am not always intentional, He is ALWAYS intentional. So, I am soaking it up. I love being pregnant. I love knowing that one that will completely change my life is growing within me. I love going through all of it with my husband. I love dreaming of who he or she will be. I love talking about the baby with my boys and love imagining little miss sunshine as a big sister. I love that we get to do this one more time. I love it all! AAAAAAAAA (a shout of delight) I love it!!!!!

Katie Sunshine is 1!!

2009-02-22T20:56:00.004-06:00

I have no words to express the utter of JOY of having a 1 year old. I cannot believe a whole year has passed from when we were delightfully surprised be the coming of our baby GIRL. Tears still feel my eyes as I think back to the screams that belted from my beloved friends mouths and filled all of BSA Hospital on February 15, 2008 when Patrick presented them with Ms. Katherine Elizabeth. What a perfect baby she has been from the moment she was born. I get chills thinking about her krinkle nosed smile, her passion for her dadadada, her brothers passion for "the lady", and really for absolutely anything "Kate." She is independent. She is playful. She is oh so happy. She is a total blessing from the Lord.

I could not resist having an all things heart dinner to celebrate our little Valentine's birthday. Everyone made their own heart shaped pizza, big kids decorated heart cookies, and for dessert we had strawberry heart cupcakes and chocolate covered strawberries. It was a very relaxed party with family and a couple of friends that we consider family including Kate's two best girlfriends Lucy (who is exactly one month older than Kate) and Madi-Claire (who is 5 months older than Kate). Fun fun.

Yay for warm(er) weather!!

2009-02-22T20:46:00.003-06:00

When winter seems to linger waaay too long, we take joy in the warm days sprinkled into the mix to rekindle our hope of what is to come. Come on Spring time!

The Sweetest Little Walker

2008-12-29T15:46:00.003-06:00

Just have to brag a bit on my tiniest little sweetie. She has been taking steps for about a month or so now, but this week has officially crossed the line into "walking." And I must say...it is simply precious. Oh how cute!!

Christmas, Christmas and another Christmas

2008-12-27T18:14:00.005-06:00

Our greatest joy this time of year is getting to spend time with friends and family. We are so blessed to have such great families and had such sweet time with all of them over the past week. Here are a few pics...

Kate and Gavin

2008-12-27T18:03:00.003-06:00

Oh how I love getting to spend time with old friends and their families. Before our race a couple of weeks ago we had a quick lunch with the Bryants. Kate and Brack (and now Gavin) are so precious to us...we love you sweet friends!!

Our First Gingerbread House

2008-12-27T17:58:00.004-06:00

Patrick got Kate all ready for bed.

2008-12-27T17:54:00.002-06:00

Um, no he was not joking around. This was a true story.

Little Laugh

2008-12-07T20:21:00.002-06:00

The boys have been shaking Kate's hand and saying "congratulations." It makes me laugh every time. :)

My New Hobby

2008-12-01T10:08:00.003-06:00

Kate's hair has become my new favorite pastime. These are from last week one night when Patrick had to work. It was actually a pretty monumental moment for me. I cannot tell you how many nights I slept in sponge rollers as a child. I thought it would have been a little too much to force a 9 month old to sleep in rollers, so we just left them in for an hour or so. Her hair holds curl surprisingly well and even more she did not mind sitting still for the beauty parlor session nor did she mind leaving them in. Yes, ladies, I am starting her out right knowing that their is a price to pay for such beauty. :)

Lord of the Harvest

2008-10-29T13:33:00.004-06:00

Last week we got to get all dressed up for the Lord of the Harvest festival at church. My little munchkins loved it! And therefore so did I. Here are a few pre-party pics....

Poor Mom

2008-10-15T15:29:00.002-06:00

I have forgotten to post this for awhile, but it is very worth the wait. A couple of months ago, Luke asked if he could play with Legos after his nap. I told him "no, I'd rather you go outside to play." He was not at all happy about this decision. He went to his room and returned with this note written all on his own...."I don't like my mom???" I questioned. He smiled and said he needed to change it....he returned with an "I love my mom" picture. I laughed and laughed. No, my feelings were not hurt at all. I think I have probably thought that once or twice in my life too. :)

Eight Months!!!

2008-10-15T15:00:00.003-06:00

I think she got tired of the bow???

OH my how time flies. My littlest love bug is such a big girl. How thankful we all are for her!

Happy Kate and Happy Birthday Gracie!

2008-09-16T21:28:00.002-06:00

Field Trip

2008-09-16T21:22:00.002-06:00

Luke's class went on a field trip last week and guess who got to be a driver....me! Kate came along and we had a blast.

Ready or Not Here She Comes

2008-09-11T20:35:00.003-06:00

Kate is everywhere! Everywhere. She has been scooching and rocking for a few weeks now, but really didn't go too far from where we set her down. However, we went on a girls trip to Breck last weekend and she decided that she could totally book it across the room to get her hands on my moms dogs. Kate is officially a dog person. Her crawling has become a point of frustration for the boys, because she wants to be and is in the big middle of whatever they are doing. I walked in yesterday to find her delighted to have her sticky hands in Luke's lego bucket.

Smarshmellow Fun

2008-09-01T20:38:00.003-06:00

Ben asked for some "smarshmellows" for a snack the other morning so....I told him we could do a craft with marshmellows and he could eat a few too. I thought he'd like making a mountain and we could work on the letter "m" That was fun, but he wanted to do more....so I asked him what else started with a "m" sound. He very quickly replied "Megan!" Therefore, we have a "Smarshmellow Megan" too.

Hi from Kate

2008-08-31T12:51:00.003-06:00

Bath Tub Fun

2008-08-31T12:29:00.002-06:00

Two boys and a 99 cent bottle of shaving cream was a load of fun naked in the tub! Kate loved observing the action too!

First Day of School

2008-08-21T14:00:00.003-06:00

Well, Luke started school this week. No, not the big K, just pre-K, but I have been a total drama queen about it. For the past 4 1/2 years he has been home with me all day every day and now all in a sudden he's not. That is big! I was so emotional the first morning and had to hide from PK to avoid being made fun of. So, Luke started this week and he LOVES it! We visited several pre-schools and really prayed about which one was right for Luke and felt very confident in our decision. I picked him up on the first day and he climbed into the car grinning from ear to ear and said that he loved school and then he said, "See, Mom, we knew God had the perfect place picked out just for me!" I started balling! I am so thankful that he is so happy and knows that he is in the center of God's will for him. His first week was great! Here is a pic from the first day.

6 Wonderful Months!

2008-08-19T13:53:00.001-06:00

Fun Link

2008-08-04T16:12:00.003-06:00

I usually let Megan do all of the blogging, but I had a nice friend shoot me this link. Enjoy. http://patrickandmeagan.com

Just in case you were wondering...

2008-07-30T20:59:00.002-06:00

Hobby Lobby has their Christmas stuff out. Oh yes you read that right....Christmas. I know that you all were sitting outside in the 95 or more degree heat trying to cast vision for your Christmas decorating this year just counting days until the decor was in stores....well, go fight the throngs of people picking over all the lights and ornaments at Hobby Lobby. hmmmm

Eaves Dropping on the Boys...

2008-07-27T13:36:00.003-06:00

I am sitting at the computer listening to the boys while they try to fall asleep. Their little conversations during this time are always so entertaining to listen to. Right now Luke is telling Ben that he has to call him "God" and is calling Ben.. "Noah." Ben is crying saying, "No, I'm Benjamin." hmmmmm....boys!

Sweet Little Thing

2008-07-15T19:20:00.005-06:00

Just thought I'd share some great shots of the darling baby girl. By the way, the boys did not shoot her with the nerf dart, it was just gently licked and stuck to her head. What a trooper she is!

Pink Boy Shirt

2008-07-15T19:12:00.003-06:00

For so long Ben has loved the color pink. He really wanted pastel pink crocs this year, but they "didn't have his size." So, he asked for hot pink. Hm. They "didn't have his size" in those either so, he settle for red. When we were at my moms a couple of weeks ago she bought the boys several shirts at the Ralph Lauren outlet. The each got a hot pink one. Ben is in love with his. He got to pick his outfit the other day and of course chose the pink shirt. All afternoon he walked around thanking me for his "pink boy shirt." "Thank you, momma, thank you for my pink boy shirt!" Too cute.

2008-07-11T13:39:00.003-06:00

These are some pictures that I took a few weeks ago on a big trip to Ruidoso, NM with some of our greatest friends. We had six kids under the age of 4 and lots and lots of action in the house. I think people ran the other way when they saw us coming. :) It was a blast. We did some fishing, horseback riding, hiking, water ballooning, swimming, playing, and so much laughing and visiting. Oh and I cannot forget that our friends the Doyle's gave us the hook up on great seats at the horse races.....such a blast! Thank you D, Jaime and Lucy. We love you Spears-eys!

Over the River and Through the Woods.....

2008-07-08T21:47:00.004-06:00

to Gracie's house we went. It was such a blast and our favorite way to spend the 4th. Breck has the best morning parade and night time concert and fireworks. We had a full week of action packed adventure. Hiking, biking, feeding "real"chipmunks, children's museum, train rides, pool parties, new friends, and much much more.

Smells....

2008-06-11T14:46:00.002-06:00

Here are two smells I cannot live without...

Capri Blue Aloha Orchid candle
Trapp's Bob's Flower Shop candle

Google them and buy them. You will not be disappointed. Infact, they change my mood and make me soooooooo happy. I have both burning in my house right now and am in total heaven. mmmmmmm.

Vive Las Vegas

2008-06-10T14:27:00.002-06:00

A few weeks ago PK, Kate and I headed to Vegas for Will and Romney's wedding. It was a blast and Katie Girl was just a little doll. Will and Romney are a total delight and we were so pleased to get to spend their big day with them. Here are a few pics from the little getaway.

A Day in the Life.....

2008-06-10T14:02:00.001-06:00

I am normally not big on undie pics, but who could resist this......Who thinks to dress up like this??

Not so fit.

2008-06-02T20:52:00.002-06:00

On Saturday I was complaining to Patrick about my aching arms and aching abs. I boastfully told him that it must be that I'd run more behind the triple jogger than I ever have before and it must be really getting me in good shape. He agreed as any good husband would. After a moment or two of dwelling on the new muscles that must be ever growing in my arms and abs and thinking hopefully of the future when my entire body was cut and trim from pushing "the beast" around the block... it hit me. And in one instant I was totally let down. My arms and abs were not sore from any long grueling runs, but instead from a slip and slide competition that my friend Amy and I had on Friday. Are you kidding me?? I took 5 dives down a kids slip and slide and was having trouble lifting a 12 pound baby. So sad. Is this our lot as we age?? Hmmmmm. And I didn't even win. I'm gonna have to give the blue ribbon to Amy for the trip she took to the grass on the other side of the splash pool at the end of the slide. :) She had some serious speed.

2008-05-28T15:06:00.003-06:00

It is 4 in the afternoon. All 3 babes are sleeping soundly in their beds, the house is clean, the laundry done (mostly), I do not have to cook dinner tonight (thank you small group picnic), and I am left wondering what in the world to do. This is a rare moment at the Kemp house. During the kids naptime I've been reading Shepherding a Child's Heart.....amazing. I am totally inspired to be the best mom that I can. And feel so much purpose behind what I do all day every day. But I am overwhelmed as well. In the book Tedd Tripp makes the point basically that we are not training for good behavior (which is nice) but rather to shape our children's hearts and to point them towards Christ. This is a pretty simple concept and is certainly not new news to most of us, but such a great reminder when focus gets blurred as most things do when you have 3 little ones. :) I've been really working with my boys on the way that they treat one another. Of course I do not want them to fight, or steal the others toy, but ultimately I want them to have genuine concern for the other. I want Luke to prefer Ben's happiness to his own and vice versa. If I physically hurt someone and made them cry my heart would hurt. I have seen my boys actually take joy in making the other cry (not all the time, they actually are mostly little love bug sweetie pies). How do you teach compassion and direct a heart to love like Christ? This is actually the question that pointed me to this book. It is great.....I'd recommend it. Their hearts are such great battlefields and such the center of life. And ours are too. I am overwhelmed by the darkness within me. This book has really made me look at myself too. I long for my babies to have pure, God loving, God fearing, God worshiping hearts and am almost being blinded by the dirtiness of my own heart. Their are such pivotal truths that I want for my children to grasp that I'm not quite sure that I do myself. Are you with me? Thank you, Father, for your grace. I am so needy. The Lord is so using my training of my kids to shape my spiritual self and to refine my heart.

Vacation

2008-05-26T21:23:00.006-06:00

Kate and Gavin

PK bowling the boys down the slip and slide.

A ride in the boat that Luke "rescued."

Kate knows what to do by the pool.

Ben enjoying Reag and Mickey.

The over loaded car (yes, we took 2 strollers). Meltdown #1.

Boat ride.

Boat ride.

Sparklers and Smores.

The Smiths.

We have had a total whirl-wind past couple of weeks. Our first trip was to the lake at Horseshoe Bay with my family. It was a beautiful drive down and a super relaxing time at the lake and by the pool with my precious fam. The boys ate up the time with everyone and would have loved being with them absolutely anywhere, but the lake was simply icing on the cake. Katie Sunshine was a doll. She is a great traveler and is simply the happiest baby I've ever seen. We also squeezed in some time with one of my best friends from high school and her adorable kids (and new pup), a run into Mrs. Amanda Keel, a visit with a best friend from college and her hubby, and dinner with some of other our other very best friends and their amazingly cute babe...Gavin...who is just about a month older than Kate. Of course our time with our friends (or fam) was not nearly enough and left me longing to live in the same town with all of them and get to have precious time with each of them on a daily or weekly basis. The Lord has blessed me with such amazing friends at every stage of my life, and I will never understand why I cannot walk with them through each season in the same town. I eagerly await Heaven where we will get to spend eternity together (and in the presence of Jesus!). Sweet friends and fam, I love you and love love the way that the Lord has used you to draw me closer to Him. I could write a novel now just thinking about each of you and what you have meant and still do to me. All that to say the vacation was a blast.....thanks Mom! I'll have to post more on our whirl-wind weeks in another post. I am exhausted and must get to bed. Here are some pics from our journey for some reason I cannot figure out how to get pics to post in the appropriate order so they are rather jumbled....sorry.

You Can Judge a Nap by the Hair.

2008-05-11T21:12:00.002-06:00

It is just a matter of personal opinion, but I believe that you can judge how good a nap was by how amazing the hair is afterwards. Kate had an awesome nap and has the hair to prove it.

Uncle Trey and Aunt Brooke

2008-05-04T22:22:00.003-06:00

Patrick's brother and his fiance came to meet Kate last weekend. It was great to get to know Brooke a little better and made us realize why Trey fell in love with her. She is great and so great for him. Here are some pics from their visit.

Music Anyone???

2008-05-04T21:45:00.002-06:00

So, I'm needing some new music on my ipod. Any suggestions? I just downloaded a bluegrass sampler from Shane and Shane....amazing. Check it out on itunes if you're into bluegrass!

Oh Yes, It is Official.

2008-04-24T20:44:00.003-06:00

When I told Luke I wanted a picture, he picked this pose.

Soccer Moms!

Luke had his first soccer practice tonight. We totally made it into a family affair. He is on a team with a good friend, Parker. This may be terribly nerdy to confess before hundreds (or less :) ) of readers, but I have almost cried countless times as I've anticipated this day. Luke is absolutely adorable in his "soccer clothes" and did so great at practice. We were blessed with a super nice Christian guy as the coach. He gave a very official talk about how he is in this for fun and really just wants the kids to enjoy themselves and he is not a super soccer pro, but just likes the game and how we don't keep score.......he lost Patrick there. Mr. Competition will absolutely be keeping score. He was even sizing up the other teams tonight at practice. Today the boys and I were praying for the soccer team and for practice and he said, "and Mom, pray that we wiiiiiiiin!" We did. :)

Fishing Fishing Fishing

2008-04-20T20:34:00.003-06:00

A warm spring day, fishing poles, worms, curious kids, good friends and NO FISH. Patrick had the biggest catch of the day.....a huge branch. A bird pooped on my head! And the baby girls decided they were not much for fishing. But it was such a perfect end to a very real weekend. We tend to get so busy on the weekends that we don't have down time. This weekend was a breath of fresh air!

Wichita Falls

2008-04-16T14:54:00.004-06:00

This week I took my first rode trip alone with 3 kids. Honestly, I was rather nervous about the voyage, and it ended up being a total success. Baby and boys all did great in the car...we did not have to stop once! Kate did have the fussiest day of her life....maybe a little tummy ache....and we have the picture with Dad-O to prove it. Granny loved meeting Katie-girl, and gave the boys some baseball piggy banks that she made in her ceramics class (how great my grandmother goes to ceramic class!!!). It was my dad's birthday so we got to celebrate at his house with some new toys from Gracie (a bubble machine for Ben and of course legos for my Lukie). Farmor joined the action packed party and met Kate for the first time. I do think that Kate's favorite past time of the trip was cuddling with Gracie. Although it was a great visit with the fam we are too happy to be back to our home and especially to our daddy!

The Big (or should I say WIDE) Purchase of the Weekend

2008-04-06T21:23:00.004-06:00

I am thrilled about our big find....a triple jogger! That means total mobility for this momma all around the neighborhood. It is with good reason more challenging to move than my double, but that just means an excellent workout. :) We do look like a small boat moving down the street. Thank you, hubby, for the new ride!

The Many Faces of Kate

2008-04-04T16:55:00.005-06:00

First smile caught on film! She is so happy with her brother.
I wish my yawns were this sweet!

Spring is busting out all over!

2008-04-04T16:47:00.003-06:00

This tree is just one thing I love coming home to in the spring.....I think it's a Cherry Blossom!

Easter

2008-03-23T21:19:00.003-06:00

Jesus is Alive! We loved celebrating Easter today. It was our first time to all go to church since before Kate was born. I've been a total germ-a-phobe and have not wanted the boys to pick up the flu or something in their classes. I was convicted the other day when Luke asked when we could go to church again because he misses it. They loved getting to go to their classes today. After church Pops came by to deliver some Easter goodies (a huge hit) and then it was naptime for all. This evening we went to an egg hunt with friends and then had a special visit from even more friends. What a great day spent with sooo many people that we love so much!

A Visit From Friends

2008-03-23T21:02:00.003-06:00

Some of our very favorite friends were in town for Easter. Although it will never be enough, we loved getting to spend some time with them. Our friends the Merricks are friends that challenge us to draw closer to the heart of Christ. They exude life and love from every ounce of themselves they are just good to laugh with and easy to be with. Taylor is an amazing wife and mother and friend and has inspired me over and over and over again to do what I do with excellence and to love others deeply. Tyler challenges Patrick repeatedly to be the man that God created him to be. Their girls melt my heart. They have the sweetest little spirits and are total delights to be around. I have still not recovered from their move last August away from here and to the Dallas area, but soak up the time we spend together. Here are some pics of the girls......loving on Kate and bringing down the house (Harper must take after her Grammy and Uncle Teel).

A

2008-03-23T21:02:00.000-06:00

Aunt Ash's Spring Break

2008-03-23T20:50:00.005-06:00

We were super blessed to have Ash here last week for Spring Break! She is the most fun aunt ever. She is a ball of constant energy and fun. Ash always has a fun song to sing, game to play or project to do. The boys (and Kate too) totally adore her! I feel soooo fortunate to have such and excellent sister that serves and blesses me like you cannot imagine and loves me and my kids with all of her heart. She is amazing! Here are some pics from her visit. We love you Smash!

To the Park

2008-03-09T19:19:00.003-06:00

Kate got to take her first trip to the park last weekend. Sadly enough she didn't get to slide or climb with the boys....just snuggled with Daddy.

Is she not irresistable?

2008-03-03T15:31:00.002-06:00

Kate's First Best Friends

2008-03-03T15:26:00.004-06:00

We are thrilled that two of our best friends here have little girls 4 months (MadiClaire) and 1 month (Lucy) older than Kate.....here they are!

Kate

2008-02-22T17:22:00.001-06:00

Baby Girl!!!!!

2008-02-22T17:12:00.003-06:00

It's a girl!

2008-02-15T21:21:00.005-06:00

We would like to introduce you to the
latest member of the Kemp Family.

Katherine 'Kate' Elizabeth was born February 15th.
She was 6lbs. 14oz. and 19inches.

Chick-Fil-A Reality Check

2008-02-09T21:36:00.000-06:00

On Friday I took the boys to Chick-fil-a for lunch so that we could get out some energy before naptime. They love playing on the play gym after they eat. They were little darlings sitting visiting with me while we ate. A grandma sat starring sweetly at us and I thought to myself...."she must be thinking how well behaved my boys are..." We finished our nuggets and took off our shoes to play. They kids played cheerfully for awhile until Ben got scared that he was stuck and started to scream. Super Luke ran to his rescue, however for some reason having his older brother hanging from his legs did not seem to reassure him and Ben began to scream even louder and with greater intensity. Finally, I was able to remind him how strong and mighty, brave and courageous he is and he slid down the slide to the security of my arms. We hugged for a minute and I told him that it was time to go and then.....the tantrum of a full fledged nap needing two year old came barreling out. My heart rate is rising as all the attention of the restaurant is turned once again to the out of control pregnant mom. As I desperately grab Ben's shoes and Luke's hand I look down only to realize that I am wearing my house shoes. Great. It was totally the icing on cake. My house shoes are not the loafer-esk brown type that could pass for shoes, but fluffy black ones with tassels. A friend reminded me today that the Grandma that I thought was admiring my precious babes was probably just coveting my shoes.

Where have I been?

2008-02-04T14:14:00.001-06:00

Only half of the keys on my keyboard on my laptop are working. So, if I try to write an email or visit a website or post a blog my typing is absolutely impossible to distinguish. Very annoying. I now have a temporary keyboard hooked up to the laptop until we get the problem solved. Yeah.

So, lots is shaking in the lives of the Kemps. Patrick has resigned from the church and has started a Creative Firm/Ad Agency called ThreeLeaf. We have been blessed beyond measure in our new venture and know that we have seen the hand of God in each step. It has been a total step of faith, we are truly seeking to hear His voice and to follow as diligently as possible. It has been so fun to see God working in our marriage and our life as we pursue this together and I feel so much a part of Patrick's work....I like it.

Baby Kemp will be here very soon! My due date is the 26th, but I am desperately praying for the tiny one to surprise us early (today would be nice :)) You mommas all know how the last month of your pregnancy brings such great anticipation and excitement. I am boiling over.

Okay, hopefully some new pictures to come soon.

Rocking Around the Christmas Tree

2007-12-16T22:08:00.000-06:00

Just a few shots of the boys in front of the tree. And one showing off my big baby belly.

Super Luke and the Return of Super Duck!

2007-11-12T21:37:00.000-06:00

Luke is super into super heros. For Halloween he was Spiderman but really what he loves dressing in full homemade "super hero" attire to go all over town. This attire that I speak of consists simply this....tight paamas worn under shorts (ideally a Cars swimsuit) and a short sleeve shirt and a pair of mittens to top it off. Oh, and sometimes a western belt too. The other night he was all dressed in gear and Ben decided that it was time for the return of the Super Duck! Finally, he wore his unused and hotly pursued Halloween costume and we got it on camera! This was a big feat for those of you who have not heard the Kemp costume saga.

My Precious Husband and My Birthday

2007-11-03T08:06:00.000-06:00

Although I strongly protested, Patrick insisted on have some sort of celebration for my birthday. He decided on having a "Family Dinner." My whole life growing up we would have two parties....a friend party and a family dinner. At the family dinner my mom would cook all of our favorite foods and our cousins and grandparents would come over to celebrate. Patrick pulled out all the stops....cleaning the house, grocery shopping, caring for the kids (while my sweet friend Jaime took me out for a pedicure), cooking dinner, ordering a cake, setting the table (cloth napkins and center piece included), and getting himself and the boys dressed up for the occasion. I returned from some shopping and pedicure to find every detail for the party in place, a calm husband, happy children and appitizers on the table. My brother and his girlfriend drove in for the celebration which was icing on the cake. As a nice conclusion to the evening we had a WII tennis extravaganza. I felt very adored!

The Great Outdoors

2007-10-14T14:09:00.000-06:00

I cannot get enough of being outside. The boys and I have been such homebodies lately and are spending countless hours each afternoon in the backyard. Here are some of my favorite pics.

Ben is 2!!

2007-10-08T13:50:00.000-06:00

My baby is 2. We had about a week long birthday celebration last week complete with a long visit from Gracie and a visit from Granny too! A party with friends capped off the celebration on Saturday and Ben was in total delight. Mom and I decided that Ben really loves all the old fashioned things about birthdays way more than anyone else we know....he'd have been happy solely with his cake, ice cream, and balloons. So so sweet. Patrick spent the entire day before the party adding on Ben's new tube slide to the boys fort....he did an amazing job and helped to make the backyard bash a raving success. This year we decided to keep the party simple and low key...it was great. Always in the past we have worked hard to have busy and elaborate parties...and then at the party I hardly get a chance to say hello to anyone because I am too busy making sure that all the details come together. This party was so peaceful, easy and fun. I actually got to enjoy every moment. And honestly....I think the kids had more fun too. Ben loved it!!!!

It's Harvest Time

2007-10-01T15:03:00.000-06:00

This is such a great time of year in Amarillo. The weather is cooling down, the leaves are getting ready to change and the aroma of pumpkins fills the air! I am hungering for pumpkin flavored anything (mostly breads and sweets) and loving the fall decor (not so much the distasteful Halloween decorations that are flooding the stores causing my innocent boys to say "what's that"). Last week we even stopped by the pumpkin patch for some true fun. Here are the pics

Here's the Problem

2007-09-01T10:36:00.000-06:00

I know. I know. Everyone is telling me that I've got to update my blog. The problem is this...BRAIN DRAIN (thanks Kristine for the term). Obviously my brain is draining straight to this tiny one growing inside of me and we can expect her (or him) to be a total genius. I have no thoughts worthy of blogging about. And the rest of the problem is that my camera was devoured by curdled milk that leaked from a sippy cup that went M.I.A. in the bottom of my purse for who knows how long and then proceeded to fill the bottom of my purse with the most terrifying smell ever. For several days I just thought I was smelling Ben's constant stinky diapers.....I'd go to change him and there was nothing. I could not figure it out. Needless to say that purse had to be thrown out and we no longer put sippy cups in my purse for transport. The camera is totally dead too. So sad. And I have no pictures to post for your viewing pleasure. So, there you are.....that is my reasoning for lack of any great blogs from the Kemp house.

8 Random Facts

2007-08-04T20:48:00.000-06:00

So, Angie Beth and Stephie have both tagged me to play this game and I've been putting it off, because I cannot come up with interesting information on the spot. My memory just fades and my mind is left blank....but I will now attempt to try really hard to come up with some juicy stuff. However, if I fail to be interesting please forgive me and never mention it again! Thanks for the courtesy.

The Rules:
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules. (**if you’re a non-blogger, you can email them!)
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

Random Facts.....
1. The nerves in my hands are connected. Oh yes. It makes it difficult for typing, holding hands, writing, waving, or really anything you do in which only one hand is meant to be doing a specific task. The problem is that one hand will for example be holding my husbands hand and the other needs to scratch my head...well, the hand holding hand tends to start trying to scratch too. This was a little awkward when we first were holding hands, but PK has grown to love the phenomenon.

2. I am pretty fanatical about my home being clean and in order. In fact, I cannot really function if it is not. My emotions seem to be tied to the cleanliness of my house. When Luke was little I would seriously sit and wait for him to stop playing with a toy so I could return it to its proper location. Thank the Lord (for the kids sake and my own) I've been delivered from hoovering and waiting to put toys away, but I do still have straighten the entire house multiple times a day.

3. This may seem very contradictory to #2, but I am severely unorganized. Please refrain from opening cabinets, closets or drawers around the Kemp house unless of course Patrick is in charge of that department. He is an excellent organizer. This is a point of frustration around here and PK has recommended more than once that I join a small group at our church that a lady (who is an incredible home organizer) teaches other ladies to be efficient and organized in the home. I'm sorry, but this seems like a nightmare for an unorganized person.....I really just would like someone to come and do it for me!!!

4. I do not like movies. I think the last movie that I saw in a theater was The Passion for the Christ and I only saw that because I was forced to. I just feel like they are a waste of time. And as far as renting movies goes....who can stay awake through one....not me! I'd rather sit and visit or read or do something productive. For all you movie buffs, I know what you are thinking....this girl is a total drag. But I am not. I am waaaay too into having fun and enjoying people than to waste 2 hours of my life sitting in a chair in a dark room staring at a screen with the volume up way too high.

5. I love mowing the yard. I think it is so rewarding to see such a transformation right before you very eyes. And to get beautiful straight lines (okay I'll admit not always so straight....but that is only because I have to look away so often to make sure the boys are not running into the street...safety first)! The gently hum of the lawn mower and the smell of freshly cut grass and the sweat dripping from your brow serving as a reminder of the challenge of the task at hand. I love it.

6. Suddenly, I've turned so opposed to showers. Just look at it this way...the less often you take one the better it feels when you do. And all the time it takes to do your hair and apply your makeup. I'm sorry this is just how I feel. The other day I realized that I'd only had one shower that week....Patrick was so proud :). I have even begun to sleep in my make-up from the day so that when I wake up in the morning I grab a baby wipe and remove the black from under my eyes and viola ready for the day! You should try it. (P.S. I do take showers after mowing the yard...come on I'm not that nasty!)

7. My sister is here proof reading my random facts and thought it very appropriate to mention that I tend to overreact. After sternly questioning her, "what do you mean overreact!!!" :) I decided to let you in on an old family secret. I am a little bit (or a lot depending on who you ask) of a drama queen.

8. I really like to be close to the ones I love. When I was little my mom referred to me often as her "shadow." Now I love to be right with Patrick. Wherever he goes I am totally there. I love just being together. The other day at a friends birthday party they had pony rides for the kids in the back yard. Patrick informed me after we got home that all the other parents just stood and watched as their children rode around the yard led by the pony's trainer...but not me I walked right along side my sweet babes, cheering them on telling them what "real" cowboys they were and taking great pictures. I did wonder why the horse lady looked at me weird when I asked where I should walk. I just don't want to miss a moment of life with the ones I love.

Okay, I think that is all I've got. Now, I don't think I have 8 left, but I will tag a few who I hope haven't been tagged yet....Amy T., Lanie, Katie, Kristine, and Amanda!

Enjoying the Summer

2007-07-31T13:48:00.000-06:00

The boys have totally been enjoying each other this summer (most of the time:) ). I love it. Luke now refers to Ben as his best friend. They are also sharing a room now. Which is fun for them, but a little challenging for Patrick and I at nap and bed times. They have now been in there for 45 minutes talking to each other. It must be so tempting to just visit and play when your best friend is just across the room....I just heard a big boom, but no tears...all must be well. The door just opened...Luke has to go potty...and now....Ben says, "I go potty too, Momma...I go potty too." I better go gain control. Anyway, here are a couple of pics of the boys truly loving being together.

Quinn and Luke

2007-07-10T13:35:00.000-06:00

These two love each others company. They melt my heart!

Big News at the Kemp House.

2007-06-23T21:15:00.000-06:00

All month long I've been a little confused by myself. The other night before bed I had to make a run to the grocery store to buy an orange and only an orange, because I could not live without one. I've eaten my weight almost daily in chips and salsa (which is totally not normal for me). I've had to make detours on our morning runs to go tinkle. I've almost fallen asleep just walking through Home Depot. So odd, huh? Not if you're PREGNANT! Yeah! Kemp baby #3 is on the way. We could not be happier. The boys are sooo excited. Luke called all the family to let them know that, "Mommy has a baby in her tummy!" and Ben is lifting my shirt and asking in question, "Baby come out there?" He points to my belly button....maybe he thinks that's where our little darling will come out. I only wish!! I'll just let him keep on thinking that. We think we are only about 4 weeks along and February seems so far away, but I know it will fly by. So, that's our big news!

Tonight as I was putting Luke to bed we read about Jesus healing the lady that touched his cloak and waking Jairus' daughter. So, as we said his prayers I prayed, "Thank you for being a God who heals us and does miracles for us" and I listed some of the ways that Jesus has healed Luke. Immediately, Luke sat up and said, "Mom, a long time ago we asked Jesus to put a baby in your belly! And He did!!!" Amen to that miracle. Lord, thank you for continuing to build my sons faith.

The Word of God

2007-06-20T21:31:00.000-06:00

Luke's First Bible Verses

Father's Day

2007-06-17T22:04:00.000-06:00

Today we loved celebrating the men we love most. The boys and I made a special breakfast for Patrick. Luke woke him up with a kiss and a call to come join us. After church Patrick's dad came over for burgers and homemade gelato...yum (let me know if you need a delicious recipe!) And then the fun began.....we filled up the boys pool and their amazingly fun daddy moved the little plastic fort over to serve as the water slide. Such a hit! We had hours of enjoyment in the backyard, all took long naps, more fun in the water, ate a quick dinner (courtesy of Patrick and the grill), and took a walk/bike ride to the park. As Luke was going to bed he told me that he wanted it to be Father's Day again tomorrow! And truthfully to him it will be. There is not a day that goes by that my boys do not celebrate their daddy. They adore him. He is amazing. He is so good at loving us and caring for us. Luke and Ben will one day have such an awesome view of their heavenly Father, because their earthly father is painting such an accurate picture. I've not seen a better dad than PK. I am so thankful for him and his giftedness at everything he does. He certainly deserves more honor than can fit into just one day. It was a great day. The only thing missing was getting to hang out with Dad-O (my dad)....we love you Dad-O!

Ben LOVES salad.

2007-06-12T21:58:00.000-06:00

One more Henry Comment

2007-06-11T19:26:00.000-06:00

When Ben woke up from his nap this afternoon we went straight outside to play. As he was swinging he realized that "Heighry" was nowhere to be found. He exclaimed, "Heighry!" Before I could comment Luke interjected, "Henry had to go to the Vet, he's sick." I simplified for Ben, "Henry went bye-bye." Ben said, "Back Heighry...Heighry Back." To which Luke replied, "No Ben Henry's going to heaven with Jesus and he's going to have so much fun there....he's not going to want to come back!" How true is that? I guess we've painted a pretty picture of heaven for Luke.

Good Bye to Henry

2007-06-11T13:48:00.000-06:00

It is so hard for me to tell you that Henry is gone. We've remained so hopeful for the past several weeks, but little Henry's health has continued to decline. I guess it was last week that the Vet told us that it was only a matter of time until his body outgrew the function of his organs. We would know that this was happening if he began throwing up and having severe diarrhea. So, this past week we have prayed and prayed that we'd get to experience a miracle in Henry's health. However, yesterday we noticed that his bowel movements were not solid at all! He began to have mega problems everywhere (hope this is not too graphic) and today began to throw up his meals. He has not been himself for the past couple of days and would choose to lay on his bed rather than to play with us. He was beginning to suffer and we could not let him continue to deteriorate. Patrick just came home and took him to the Vet. We had Luke tell him goodbye before his nap and he cried and cried. He'd hold Henry and say it the sweetest voice ever, "Henry, I'm sorry you can't stay here with us." Our hearts broke. Luke and I had a long conversation on whether dogs go to people heaven or to a special dog heaven. His vote is on people heaven. He also thinks that Jesus should just fix Henry once he gets to heaven and send him back. I told him that I don't really think that is how things work, but it sure would be nice. We had a long talk about how sometimes bad things happen and they don't always turn out the way we'd like, but that is when we just ask God to comfort us and to make us stronger. Character is certainly being built at the Kemp house. I don't think Ben really gets it yet that Henry is gone. He'll miss playing with him the most. He loves him so much. mmmm. Anyway, just thought I'd update everyone since we'd posted earlier concerning sweet little Henry. Here are a couple of pics we took before Henry left. Isn't he cute?? By the way....I have just downed half a bag of chips and some salsa....is that called emotional eating?? What a great way to deal with things. :)

I AM a PROMISE!

2007-06-07T21:02:00.000-06:00

This morning I kept a friends kids while she was at an appointment. Luke suggested that we have a "dance party" or you may call it a jammin' worship session. At all of our "dance parties" the room has to be totally rearranged to make way for an appropriate "stage" to worship on and this of course was no exception to the rule. Veggie Tales Worship was the music of choice and we totally rocked out. All 4 kids took turns on the microphone, on the guitar, on the stage and for those of you that go to church with us....Luke convinced the two little guys to take turns being "Pastor Marty" and sit in a chair on the side of the stage (hilarious). We sang and danced our way through all the songs on the cd. Worn out by the last song, I sat and pondered the lyrics......

I am a promise. I am a possibility. I am a promise with a capital "P". I am great big bundle of potentiality. And I am learning to hear God's voice and I am trying to make the right choices I will promise to be anything He wants me to be. I can go anywhere that He wants me to go. I can be anything that He wants me to be.

I love it. I want my kids to know that they are a promise. I love that at 18months and 3.5 years they truly are learning to hear God's voice and trying to make the right choices. I long to see them go exactly where God wants them to go and to be exactly what they were created to be. My eyes fill with tears as I pray for them to be men who chase after the heart of God with everything that they are. There is so much potential held within these tiny adorable boys. As I contemplate I find myself begging the Lord to guide me. I am overwhelmed by the responsibility of stewarding these boys and of training them in the ways of the Lord. I so desperately want to portray the beauty of the Lord to them in an appropriate light. What a delicate job we have as parents. The encouraging part to me is that God's ways work. So, if we apply the principles that we study in His Word....then we will succeed at this amazing task!! I cannot wait to see everything that God wants Luke and Ben to be....but I am sure loving watching and helping them to learn to hear His voice and try to make the right choices! In fact, they are helping me learn to hear His voice and inspire me to try to make the right choices. AAAAhhhhh. What promises they really are!!!

Happiness!!

2007-06-01T13:30:00.001-06:00

Putting Things Into Perspective

2007-05-29T20:50:00.000-06:00

Isn't it nice of the Lord to put things into perspective for us. Like when we think something is a big deal and it really isn't, He is so quick to remind us what really is a big deal. And sometimes the Lord gives us glimpses of what He's teaching us before the lesson actually gets into full swing. You know like a trailer to a movie. This week has been a learning week for me. And I think it is just the beginning of an even bigger lesson. Learning times are not really what I desire, but I do know that the testing of my faith develops perseverance and perseverance must finish it's work so that I may be a mature and complete follower of Christ. And so I hold on in hope of seeing the end result...maturity in Christ. Seeing my sons loose a puppy seems so trivial today. (Henry seems pretty good...we'll keep you posted) In my last blog I shared how the Lord showed me the little analogy about holding on too tightly to my treasures. This week I am walking that out. It is a tear stained week. You know when everything you touch gets soggy with tears. And you are walking out of the grocery store and suddenly you realize you are crying. hm. Yes, I am that weirdo that you feel sorry for, but don't really know the right thing to say. I have to keep reminding myself that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Tonight we had a young adults ministry meeting at church. During worship I of course was trying not to snort while trying to be strategic about blotting my mascara so that at least I didn't look like I'd sobbed through every song. My hope really is in the Lord. And tonight I had to choose to worship Him even though I didn't really feel like it. (I am also learning to let my spirit rule over my emotions.) And I will say the Lord really does ride on the praises of His people. I am still sad, but I am full of hope. I am full of peace and I totally trust that the God I serve is so much bigger than my circumstances. Thank you, Jesus!

Holding on Too Tight

2007-05-25T16:01:00.000-06:00

Today Ben went with me to World Market to pick up a birthday gift for a friend. We found a couple of fun pairs of earrings, tried on some hats (took a couple of pics) and were ready to check out. After I paid the lady handed Ben the bag to carry to the car. He was so proud of his new "treasure." I carried Ben to the car and set him in the car seat. Then it was time to buckle the 5 point harness. So, I attempted to remove the "treasure" from Ben's tightly clasped hands. I will just say that that was not a popular decision and Ben let me know that very clearly (in a rather ear piercing way). So, I decided to go ahead and buckle the seat belt and allow the shopping bag to be tangled in between the straps of the belt. Well, as you can imagine this was very frustrating to my sweet little man. Although the treasure was still in his hand, it was totally useless. Until he chose to let go of the bag he'd be totally unable to access it.

Immediately the Lord showed me that this is exactly what I often do. I grasp my treasures so tightly and am scared that if I trust my Father and let go of them for an instant, then I will loose them forever. My perspective is blurred and I cannot see that God places more value on my true treasures than I do. And when I let go and allow Him to hold them for me then I will see them at their full potential. I love that about Him. I love how He cares for me. I love how he knows what I need so much more than I do. I love how he knows what I want even more than I do. And He is so willing to shower me with love and blessings and even with just Himself!

Heart Sick over Henry!

2007-05-23T13:44:00.000-06:00

About a month ago Patrick and I surprised the boys with a golden retriever puppy, Henry. He has been such a delight to us all. Especially to Ben. They are like the little mob squad. We all laugh as we watch Henry "attack" Ben and watch Ben "love on" Henry. Even the sound of Henry's name flowing from Ben's 1.5 year old mouth makes us smile. My brother and sister decided last weekend that it would probably be spelled "H-E-I=G-H-R-Y" if it were up to Ben's language. And Luke has loved caring for Henry. Feeding him. Leash training him. Taking him out to potty. And teaching him not to eat his Legos.

However, yesterday we learned that Henry's health is very poor. He is less than half of his ideal weight, has an extremely low protein count in his blood, low blood count, and the list continues. His belly has gotten really large (like the starving children you see in third world nations) in the past two days as well. Although he eats all the time, he is very malnourished. The Kemp house is heart broken. We have Henry on several meds, multivitamins, and prescription dog food and are praying that his condition will improve in the next two weeks. The vet fears that Henry has a congenital problem in his digestive system, liver, or kidney. Which would not be cured in by the meds. If this is the case, there is not much hope for our sweet puppy.

I am of course sad, but most of all my heart hurts for my kids. They love their puppy. They are so proud of him. Luke told a lady a the grocery store this morning that "My Henry is at home." When Henry stayed at the vet overnight Ben walked around saying "Heighry. Love Heighry. Heighry kennel? Kiss Heighry." I know this would be only the first of many losses that my kids will experience in their lives. And I trust that the Lord will hold their hearts through all trials that they ever encounter. However, knowing that their hearts can hurt hurts mine even more. I wish I could just intercept all heartache coming their way and bear it myself. I wish that I could take all of their pains away. But I cannot. And it would not be fair to them if I tried. Because we have a God that wants Luke and Ben to learn to let Him be the great comforter that He is. The Lord wants Luke and Ben to learn to allow Him to carry their burdens. And that is my role as a mother. Not to protect them from all heart ache and pain, but to direct them to the One that longs to hold their hearts in His hands. They have a heavenly Father that loves them more than I do. I must choose to not shelter them from any pain ever, but to walk with them through the pain in a way that will woo their tiny hearts to the heart of a big big God. It is my job to train them even now how to handle their emotions and where to place them and where to find shelter from the storms of life so that one day when I am not by their side they will be well prepared to choose to trust God on their own. And knowing all this, it is still so hard to even think of them feeling any pain...ever. So, I choose to trust God!

Luke has been praying for Henry. "Come on Jesus, we know you can do it." His faith is so strong.

The Boys!

2007-05-21T21:18:00.000-06:00

Beyond loving the Lord. The greatest pleasure in my life comes from my boys. All three of them! My entire life I've dreamt of being a wife and mother...and here I am living in my dream. There are of course chaotic moments that I forget that this was my dream and wonder why I've chosen such an unglorified path. However, the Lord is always quick to remind me that this is exactly what I was created to do. And I really believe that. There is no greater fulfillment for me than to see my husband succeed at what he does and to fulfill the calling God has placed on his life and to see my boys growing already into the men that God created them to be. I love being a helpmate and hate that I can't do a perfect job all the time. I love being a mom and hate that I'm not perfect at that either. But I'll keep pressing on because the reward is so sweet!