Happy Birthday Dad G

It's hard to believe that my grandfather has been gone from us for almost four years.  I still miss his funny dance moves, neighborhood gossip, and can almost see him out mowing the grass and trimming bushes when I drive by.  His 85th birthday would've been this May 13. . . Mother's Day.  My grandmother wanted to honor this day with a balloon release at the cemetery.  Because of the yucky weather, we opted to let them go at their home which almost seemed more fitting.

The two heart shaped balloons stayed together until they soared out of sight.  So symbolic of my grandparents :)

Happy Birthday Dad G - can't wait to see you again in Glory! 

Mommy's Day

I'm blessed to say that Mother's Day around our abode is more than a once-a-year occurrence.  The daily hugs, kisses, and 'I love yous' from my precious boys will forever outweigh any material possession purchased or given.  Michael also spoils me rotten with girls nights, surprises, and sweet encouragement the whole year long.  See?  Blessed.

However, this marked Mother's Day I was getting ready for church when both boys walked into the bathroom with cards.  Cole was so proud of his that played a catchy tune when opened and Cade's was presented with teeth marks and all :)

At breakfast, the kitchen greeted me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers (yellow is my favorite) and the cutest drawing from Cole.  He had kept it a secret from me all week - yep, there were a few tears.

Michael also gave me the best present ever; which I'm about to enjoy in just a few days.  Work has been crazy busy the past few weeks and I've felt in some ways as if it's been a one woman show in the Johnson home.  To my surprise, he's taking off work to spend a day with the boys and let me take a day for MYSELF.  A pedicure, shopping, browsing, lunch with a friend. . . whatever I'd like.  WOW!  Can't wait!!

I'm forever grateful for the three little ones that the Lord has given us.  The two that share our home and one sweet face in heaven which I've yet to see.  Motherhood is such a gift. . . an honor. . .

Lord, help me to raise up bold men of God that will carry your Name to the world and forever shout your fame.

Surrounded by Pink

Last spring, my expecting friends and I laughed about Cade being the only boy born in a sea of girls.  Well, here we are a year later, and all those sweet girls are turning one with pinkalicious parties and feminine touches galore.  I must say, it's super fun walking down the 'girl' aisles in stores and admiring precious dresses, but my wallet (and husband I'm sure) are definitely thankful the Lord gave us boys :)

Sweet Kiyah celebrated with a bird/flower theme. . .

Hayley Beth was surrounded by the cutest owls ever. . .

and last weekend, Eve hosted the sweetest tea party I've ever seen. . .

Although the tea party was pushing it for Michael, I promised the boys would keep their masculinity card and even dress the part.  The wee Johnsons can definitely rock a tie :)

It's been such a fun journey to watch these babes grow into independent toddlers.  Praying that the Lord grows a bond between them as friends and who knows. . . maybe even a future in-law down the road?!

The womb buddies last June:  Kiyah - 12 weeks, Cade - 8 weeks, Eve - 5 weeks 

 One year later - LOVE them!    

What a Weekend!

Last weekend was jam packed with family activities - not super relaxing, but a great way to spend time with sweet friends!

Friday and Saturday:  Neighborhood yard sale

Well, I finally did it.  Priced all the baby items and storage bins full of clothes to sell.  I'm still keeping the 18 month - 4T things for Cade, but the 12 month and under was up for grabs.  It was bittersweet to see so much of the teeny tiny things go that have filled up our home for the last five years. . . both reminiscent of days gone by and freeing to focus on what's ahead for our family.  It was also a huge blessing to donate items to our local Crisis Pregnancy Center (a ministry our family LOVES) and let some expecting mamas borrow things for their soon-arriving little ones.

It was also hilarious to see people's faces as they walked up our driveway and into the garage.  It was baby central.  Racks full of outfits, tables filled with onesies, sleepers, shoes, bibs, and blankets, bins of primary-colored, musical toys, and large infant equipment met them head on.  Looking for antique china, computer parts, or an old lawn mower?  Not the right house for you :)

It was definitely worth the work as I nickeled and dimed my way up to $300 in sales.  Not too shabby!

Had this cute face to keep me company :)

I must also point out that my beautiful toile baby sling, umbrella stroller, and a few baby clothes were purchased for DOGS.  Yep, Mr. Scooter is being carried around in that precious sling. . . probably at a park or grocery store near you.  Gracious. . .

Back to weekend events.  

Saturday night, we enjoyed a neighborhood block party in our cul-de-sac.  Our across the street friends, Kevin and Tricia provided all the meat which Kevin cooked on his commercial smoker ALL day.  Brisket, chicken, fish, pork tenderloin - pure deliciousness.

Sunday, we enjoyed worship with our church family and then headed to Rock Castle for our small group social.  Members of our class, Sam and Jessica Gilbert, live on the property (Sam is the caretaker), and were gracious enough to host this event.  More yummy food, and time on the lake with kayaks and paddleboats rounded out the afternoon.

I regret not having pics, but I've quickly learned that the photo-taking diminishes when having to chase TWO little boys around :)  Maybe I should convince the hubby to upgrade to a smart phone?? :)

A Few More Cs

As if I didn't confuse Cole and Cade's names enough, we've added a few more 'Cs' to the Johnson crew.  Meet Charlie. . . a turtle that has made his way (multiple times) to our yard.  Daddy finally dropped him off at the lake down the street - hopefully he's found his way back home!

We also have Chester and Cecil which have to this day averted my attempts at picture taking.  They are two ginormous crows that visit our yard each morning.  Chester eats the bugs that have accumulated around the front spotlights, and Cecil inspects the back from his perch on the neighbors roof.

 Along with these daily friends, we consistently spot turkeys, foxes, a peacock, deer, and skunks (could do without that little creature :) ).  We feel as if we've moved to the country and LOVE it :)

Ridin' in Style

Michael's been wanting to add early morning neighborhood runs/bike rides to his exercise routine to burn a few calories and get in a quick workout before the busyness of the day begins.  He's also constantly on the lookout for anything that can incorporate time with the boys (such a GREAT Daddy).

So. . . I wasn't surprised when he came home with a new purchase last week.  A bike buggy from Play It Again Sports.  I must add that he found it for a STEAL. . . I think my consignment ways are rubbing off!  Both boys LOVE it, although Cole won't be able to fit much longer :)

I LOVE how Cade is holding Cole's arm.  He adores his big brother!

First ride down the street

Peek-a-boo!

Not only does Daddy now get an extra workout (pulling the cart with 50+ lbs. of sweetness), but the boys enjoy a leisurely morning ride and Mommy enjoys a bit of quiet to prepare for the day.  Happiness all around!

Strawberry Picking

If you're like our family, you LOVE the taste of fresh fruits and veggies. . . especially those picked and grown locally or in your own backyard :)  Strawberry season is in full swing and I couldn't wait to get my hands on some fresh picked goodness.  Cheesecake, shortcake, and homemade jam were calling my name!

After missing out on this fun event last year (due to Cade being only a few weeks old), we were super excited to visit the strawberry patch and pick some delicious berries.  Upon the advice of friends, we headed to the new Copper Creek Farm in Gallatin and invited a few moms/kiddos to join us.  The quaint farm was picture perfect, the weather a cool, sunny day, and the owners were kind with distinctive Southern charm.

 A few of the 25+ friends that joined us.  We love these sweet families and so enjoy doing life together!

Cole and Aleah

Micah

Laura and Evie Kate

Alexis

Katie and Brooklyn

Becky, Kiyah, and Jonah

Hayley Beth

Sweetest picture ever :)  Cole was saying, "See Hayley Beth - this is how you pick".
Precious. . .

The strawberries were delightful - the perfect mix of tart and sweet.  Cade LOVED them so much that he had a mid-morning snack in the middle of the patch.   

After enjoying the patch, we all ventured to Triple Creek Park for an outdoor picnic and playground fun.  A lovely spring day!  

Kiyah, Cade, and Eve
The womb buddies - one year later :)