The Parnells

The Tale Of Two Mornings

2012-01-30T10:53:00.002-05:00

Or the tale of all mornings, really. Poor guy gets smothered with more kisses than he knows what to do with.

Sunday, January 29.

Monday, January 30.

But he's not complaining.

Absolutely Glorious

2012-01-19T17:17:00.000-05:00

I love to snuggle Micah right up under his neck. I want to breathe in as much of his sweet smell as possible, so I get my nose as close to his little neck crevices as I can, even when I know it's mixed with some formula and a little lint.

Hannah Kate, she can give the best hugs this side of Texas. I love it when I'm sitting Indian style (is that okay to say anymore?) and she runs to throw her arms around my neck. Her little body almost knocks me backwards and her little face finds the perfect place between my shoulder and neck. And sometimes, she's just too excited and she squeals and almost burst my ear drums.

And my sweet Elizabeth. She is getting so big. She's finally mastered the art of not giving sloppy kisses. Well, that's if her nose isn't running.

It was in the middle of the chaos of three little children running around and a very messy house that I knew I wouldn't trade anything in the world to be here. Here, still in my pajamas, hair not brushed (but thankfully the teeth were) in the midst of the three diapers I haven't had a chance to throw away yet.

I'd rather be deaf from hearing Hannah's screams of delight and feeling her warm body embrace me than any 5 figure salary.

To have this perspective tomorrow will be if-y. There's nothing very romantic about motherhood. Or glamorous, for that matter.

But glorious? Absolutely.

Auto-tuned Bed time Song

2012-01-17T12:17:00.001-05:00

Thanks to this app!

Catching up with the Parnells

2012-01-13T16:13:00.000-05:00

The last month has been a whirlwind. Here's a little catching up (in pictures mostly):

Uncle Joel came to visit.

Then Grandma.

Christmas morning happened.

and then she turned 4!

Poppy, Granna, and Uncle Aaron came to visit.

He shaved.

She got cuter, if that's even possible.

And him?

Well...

He grew.

UP!

OVER.

NIGHT!

Oh. and we bought a house.

and yes. this is our amazing backyard.

Also, in case you haven't noticed, I became a .com. So now to get here, all you have to do is remember my name: www.MELISSAPARNELL.com .

We close on the house February 15 and will move in shortly afterwards. We are excited. And nervous. And I'm a little sad. There are lots of memories in our sweet duplex. But if you know of anyone in Twin Cities area looking for a place to rent the first of March, we know some pretty awesome landlords.

Happy Birthday, Elizabeth Grace!

2011-12-26T15:53:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th birthday, my sweet, imaginative, free-spirited, extroverted, artistic, pays-attention-to-details, glad, particular, compassionate, and affectionate little girl!

You have filled our family with such gladness and joy. And our lives have been forever (happily!) changed because of you.

May Jesus make his face to shine upon you. May he be your portion forever. And may your heart be intensely satisfied in your Maker!

I love you to the fairies and back, my darling!

All things Hannah Kate

2011-12-13T16:23:00.000-05:00

Hannah went in for her two year appointment. She is currently 34 inches (45 percentile in height) and 26 1/2 pounds (42 percentile in weight). We were pleasantly impressed by the 3 lbs she packed on since June. Overall, she is growing and developing wonderfully--something we certainly don't want to take for granted.

Some other random things about our dear Hannah:

She refers to herself as "Hannah Tate!"
She calls Micah "ga-ga" and if she refers to him as Michaiah it's "me-ga-ga"
She calls Elizabeth "la-la" but more recently she will randomly say "wit-a-beths"
She moved from saying "da-da" to "daddy". It melts my heart.
Sadly, she has started to abandon mama and resorted to mom. She is 2 going on 15.
She takes apart her sandwiches.
She likes to string her string cheese.
She loves bananas.
And elmo.
And Woody.
and Wendy (from Peter Pan).
and princesses.
She also likes shoes. and jackets.
She doesn't like to wear mittens.
And she likes to touch the snow.
Yeah, not a good combination.
She loves, LOVES the "kismas twee."
And I love to hear her say it so much, I may never take it down.
This kid has some hilarious dance moves.
Her first question in the morning is always, "where daddy?"
And her favorite question is, "why?"
She counts like this: one, TWO, free, nine, TWO! It's too cute to correct right now.
She's a really great helper. She will take shoes to the front door, try to hang up her jacket, grab a diaper or the wipes, and throw diapers and trash away.
And if I can't get her to do any of those things, Woody gladly does it for me.
She likes music.
And she likes to wear big sister's pajamas.
She knows most of the animal nosies. But if she doesn't know, she will say "meow"
She quivers her chin when she says "Naaayy."
She is loaded with personality.
She likes to say, "A-MIN!" for amen.
She is currently cutting all 4 of her 2 year molars. Poor girl.
She gets the most compliments on her hair.
And the next, being those big blue eyes.
She's a cute one. and she knows since "Wook at mee!!" is a common phrase.
If she gets caught disobeying, she freezes. except her eyes. They are moving up and down and side to side with big blinks in between.
She hates getting her hair brushed.
If she doesn't like her food, she likes to say, "eww! uck!"
She's a hoarder. She would hoard her food and toys if we let her.
She likes to snuggle.
And put her cheek next to yours when you slow dance.

And these are only the beginning of the things I love about her.

Photo taken by Jordan Cave

Our Christmas Card

2011-12-06T11:34:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Love, Hannah Kate

Thankful That He Prays

2011-11-14T14:42:00.001-05:00

“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail."

(Luke 22:31-32a ESV)

In the nitty, gritty moments of my stay-at-home mom career I need to know that Jesus died for my sins. This job exposes a lot of dirt. And even when I remember my sins are atoned for, sometimes I can still feel discouraged. An important part of the gospel I like to think about in moments of my weakness is that Jesus is constantly praying for me. He is at the Father's right hand interceding for me. He is praying that my faith would not fail.

In the moments of fighting a hard headed toddler to wear a coat in freezing temperatures (and loosing my cool after hearing 15 solid minutes of whining). . . in these moments when I forget all aspects of the gospel and the last thing I feel like doing is praying for myself. . . in these moments the gospel still prevails. Jesus died was buried, and then was raised and enthroned. And it's by this victory that he secures the never-failing sustenance of my faith, even when the flame becomes a flicker.

Not because of how well I can articulate it or coach myself to believe it. But only because in my weakness the Spirit intercedes for me, and my great High Priest pleads on my behalf.

We all know Peter denied him. And we all know more times than not we deny him too in how we display grace to our children. But remember Who is keeping you.

Mom, when your patiences runs out and Jesus seems far away, make it a time to recall his Keeping power. He's praying for you then. Let your kids know there is a hope outside of you— outside your ability to mother well. Jesus is the author and perfecter of your faith. We really are jars of clay and the treasure we possess makes clear the surpassing power comes from him. This is beautiful: being vulnerable and exhibiting a needy life dependent on his grace.

I told Elizabeth I ate all her Halloween Candy

2011-11-03T23:24:00.001-04:00

This video...

...inspired this one.

**feelings were only briefly hurt in the making of this film.
***Elizabeth thinks it's funny to watch the video. She also refers to herself in the 3rd person as she watches herself pick her nose.

Micah: 6 months old

2011-11-02T23:28:00.001-04:00

Micah is such a pleasant baby. His red hair is falling out and it's growing back in blonde. It's the softest fuzz my cheeks have ever snuggled. His blue eyes seem to be getting bluer and his little personality is emerging along with two bottom teeth.

He loves to kick, smile, turn over, and laugh. Sometimes he is bashful. He thinks his sisters are incredibly entertaining and hilarious. Daddy's already his hero. And mom puts a sparkle in his eyes.

He is 6 months today. And it's been the sweetest, most difficult, delightful, joyfilled 6 months of my entire life. My heart has quadrupled in size and my arms are overflowing with such wonderful gifts!

Micah,

May Jesus be your great salvation. May he satisfy your every desire. May you taste his steadfast love that never ceases. May he be your portion forever. And may your joy be ultimate because Jesus claims you as his own.

I love you, my precious son!

A visit with Uncle Joel

2011-10-04T17:36:00.003-04:00

Uncle Joel came to visit us again this past weekend.

The girls were thrilled to spend time with him again. Uncle Joel proved to be an excellent tent maker and Elizabeth loved when he was also a 'wuf' (wolf). We did have to have a few conversations with the girls that Jesus gave us Uncle Joel to share...mainly with our middle child who apparently forgot she could walk when he was around. Micah was also pretty excited about chillin' with him, when his sisters gave him a chance to.

Micah + Uncle Joel

Hannah Kate laying claim that he was her Uncle Joel

And I'm pretty sure she just finished laying a big wet one on his check.

Sadly, during picture time, Elizabeth was having a hard time.

So this was the best I got of the all the kids with Uncle Joel

And here's the guys taking a break from watching the Cardinals win

Last night when we were putting Elizabeth to bed she asked Jonathan what we were going to do today (I'm guessing she meant tomorrow) and asked if Uncle Joel would be coming. Hannah, randomly, walks throughout the house calling for him. Needless to say, we already miss that guy!

Thanks, Joel, for joining in on all our craziness!

Our joy is certainly increased because of our friendship with you!

First Days

2011-09-20T11:21:00.001-04:00

Last Thursday was officially Elizabeth's first day at preschool. She was so excited about riding the bus. She watched for it the entire morning from the window until we decided to go on outside. When the bus arrived, she hardly looked back. I was just thankful she got off the bus without crying when it returned. Oh, and I cried, of course. Then I spent the rest of the morning in disbelief that my little firstborn 6lb baby was old enough to be doing all this.

When Friday rolled around she was as equally excited about riding the bus and going to preschool.

BUT...not only was Thursday her first day of preschool, it was also her first day of ballet/tap class! They had a groupon for dance classes and our best friends, the Tongs, signed up their little girl, Ju-Ju (Juliana). A great deal + a friend = a no brainer!

Elizabeth is actually more excited about her dance class than preschool. In fact, as I'm writing this blog, she is practicing with the used tap shoes we got her and asking me (the tomboy as a kid) for some help with her ballet moves (youtube here I come...).

Here's a little video I got of her class:

I know, I know. She's a natural, isn't she?

Elizabeth's Preschool Orientation

2011-09-12T12:27:00.001-04:00

This first picture has nothing to do with preschool. I let Elizabeth pick out her outfit one day last week, and I couldn't get over how well she matched (or how well she cooperated with me to get this picture!).

Beautiful girl!

Ok, back to the preschool thing.

She had an open house at her preschool this past Thursday. For the first hour we played with our kids in the classroom. For the second hour the parents had a meeting right across the hall from them.

How did Elizabeth do?

Elizabeth did fine. She didn't cry when some of the kids cried when the parents left to go to the meeting. She cried when I came back from the meeting and told her it was time to go home. It was no surprise to me. She is our social butterfly and she loves being around other children (not to mention she does this from time to time when we pick her up from nursery at church).

How did I do?

Well I cried when I received the letter telling me about the orientation. When we to get her school supplies the day before the orientation, I was really excited! She has been so excited about starting preschool. After getting the supplies we ran into a mom in Target parking lot who told us that she just drop her little girl off at Kindergarten. A huge knot formed in the back of my throat and tears came to my eyes. Maybe it was the look on her face or me just imagining sending Elizabeth to Kindergarten, but it made me realize I'm a little more emotional than I thought.

We will put her on the bus this Thursday and that is what I'll consider her first day of preschool. I'm just hoping I'm not ridiculous. Oh, and homeschool seems like a probable solution to not ever having to face sending her to Kindergarten. :)

Random things

She already knows some of the kids in the class. Morrow, the little guy who lives upstairs, will be in her class and will ride the bus with her! I'm really excited about that. And then there's Abigail, who plays with her sometimes in nursery, she will be in there too!

Elizabeth wore a skirt to preschool. It reminded me that we need to work on the whole 'sit like a lady' thing.

Also, the night before, she got a mosquito bite on her butt. So not only was she not sitting like a lady in her skirt, she was also digging at the bite! It was really hilarious to me.

"Elizabeth look at mama and smile!"

"Look at mama!"

She's really quick to listen to me.

Sitting beside Morrow

And now, Abigail.

Taking it all in.

Note to self: Don't send her to school in a skirt.

Excited about going on a bear hunt!

Hannah Kate and her hair!

2011-09-07T17:39:00.000-04:00

When I go to playgrounds the number one response I get (other than, they're all yours?!) is look at all that hair (referring to Hannah Kate). Her hair is ridiculous. Some people thought she'd be our little brown headed child, but as of late her hair is turning blonde. My brother can't get over this, so I decided to document Hannah's hair since birth. Elizabeth's pretty much did the same thing–black to blonde. And although Micah's hair for now has a red tint, we aren't holding our breath that it will stay that way.

October 2009

January 2010

February 2010

March 2010

April 2010

May 2010 (starting to see some blonder hair)

June 2010

July 2010

August 2010

September 2010

October 2010

November 2010

December 2010

February 2011

March 2011

April 2011

May 2011

June 2011

July 2011

August 2011

September 2011

All Hannah's 'new' hair is growing in blonde. So she'll probably rock the same highlighted look her big sister rocks.

Our Hannah Kate

2011-09-06T17:27:00.000-04:00

She is so funny to me. Here's a video of her imitating daddy doing push-ups on his swivel push up bars

"uck, mommy! uck!"

She always has her water bottle and toys with her in the car

She's a Ham. Biscuit!

She loves to copy big Sister

It never fails--she always falls.

She's the kid who wants to play with everything other than the playground

She also likes to eat dirt.

And wear sun glasses

and is pretty content with just a bucket.

I love every ounce of personality this little girl adds to our family. She flavors us with delight, and my heart swells up in gratitude that the Lord would give us such a happy daughter. I love every bit of you, my little girl!

Happy 4 months, Micah!

2011-09-02T11:37:00.000-04:00

What does a day in the life of this 4 month old look like?

8:00am- I wake up 'the dude' and feed him.

9:30am-He goes down for a nap.

12:00pm-Wakes up and eats bottle.

1:30pm-Goes down for another nap.

4:00pm-Wakes up and has another bottle.

5:45-6:00pm-Goes down for another nap.

6:45-7:00pm-Wakes up from his cat nap.

8:00pm-Has last bottle and goes to bed

I know. It's a hard life for the both of us. (only kidding!)

And it looks just like his big sister Hannah (when she was his age) and will eventually look like Elizabeth (she was almost 13 months when I wrote that).

For the past month Micah made the jump from sleeping from 10:30pm-8am to 8pm-8am. And for almost a week, he has shared a room with his big sisters! They all go down for their naps around 1:30, and then they all go down around 8 for bedtime. The transition has gone surprisingly well.

What has this 4 month old been up to this month?

Nappin' by the lakes while my sisters swim with daddy.

Nappin' in big beds

Chillin' at the parks

Flirtin' with mama!

stop. it!

Meeting my best bud

Posin' as batman.

Hangin' with the sistas

Gettin' loved on too much by those sistas.

It's been 4 months full of kisses.

Seriously--too.many.ladies in my life.

And some crazier than others.

How much does this 4 month old weigh?

Well, I'm not sure. Last time (towards the end of July) he weighed 9lbs 7oz. Our next doctor visit is September 14th, so I'll keep you posted.

But what I do know is that he isn't my little 4lb baby anymore....

little guy

big guy!

Micah, dear, it's been 4 months of pure joy with you in my arms. Thanks for tripling the size of my heart!

I love you 'little dude!'

A birthday poem to the greatest woman ever!

2011-08-26T23:20:00.005-04:00

On this day, 29 and some years ago (you are welcome!), a baby girl was born to the proud parents of Otis and Marilyn Darnell. They named her Pamela Camille and they called her Pam. Later in her life, she became my Mama and since becoming a mother myself—my hero (in all the non-cliche ways). She wrote me a poem for my wedding titled “I hope you have a daughter just like you,” so for her 29+ birthday, I wrote her a poem:

I Hope to be a Mother just like You

I often see glimpses of you, Mama, in my mothering.

From phrases I say, to quarky little things I do.

I used to dread how inevitable it seemed, but I’m beginning to understand.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember feeding me at 2am when I was a newborn?

I don’t, but I remember you telling me later it was the sweetest time for you.

Just you and me—you holding your baby girl and me smiling behind a bottle at you.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I went off to see the kittens at our neighbor’s house without telling you?

You had gathered a team to go searching for me, and I met y’all in the church yard as I was coming home.

That was the most memorable spanking, for sure, but I remember your tight hug and your watery, thankful eyes when you knew I was ok.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I went to Kindergarten and didn’t want you to walk me to my class?

You allowed me to be independent and encouraged me to be confident.

But you followed me to class without me knowing, crying with every step I took.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I’d ask you to take me to a friend’s house or if I could have someone spend the night?

You saw friendships valuable for me.

So you never hesitated to say yes even though it wasn’t always convenient.

And you let me stay or let them stay even on school nights, when it wasn’t ideal.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I used to make you drop me off a mile from the door when I was in middle school because I didn’t want my friends to know I actually had a mom?

You would do it with such a sense of humor and had confidence to know it was only a stage.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember all my sporting events?

You would, because it didn’t matter where they were or what time they were, you’d work hard to be there: whether that meant to go in two hours earlier or to work on a Saturday. You wouldn’t miss cheering me on for the world.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I went through that wild teenage stage?

And remember how you didn’t kill me?

I hope to be a mother just like you. :)

Remember when you got that phone call at FoodLion telling you we’d been in a car wreck?

You told me about how awful the drive to the hospital was not knowing much of the details.

I had never been so thankful to see your face and to hold your hand.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when you dropped me off in my dorm at college?

I cried and didn’t want you to leave. You hugged me tight and fought back all the tears.

You knew I needed you to be strong and you resisted all that was in you to pack my stuff back up and take me back home.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when that boy asked you for my hand in marriage?

He told you he couldn’t promise you where your grandchildren would be raised.

You still told him yes and then lied to me about him not talking to you so it would be a surprise.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I told you Elizabeth was an Elizabeth?

You were so certain she was a Micah. You cried. You had finally gotten the wish—”I hope you have a daughter just like you!”

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when I went into labor with Elizabeth on Christmas of 2007?

At 11 o’ clock at night you drove four and a half hours back to Raleigh.

You stayed with us for a week doing all the dirty work like the dishes and laundry, so I could hold and enjoy my newborn.

And I never had to think about a meal because you had it covered.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when Jon and I packed up all our stuff, including your 8 month old granddaughter, and moved to Minneapolis?

You never discouraged me not go and you felt peace in the midst of your heart crushing because you believed we were doing what God had called us to do.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember when we tried to tell you about Hannah by making Elizabeth wear a big sister shirt?

You were just too excited to be here to even pay attention to what she was wearing. We basically had to tell you.

And knowing you wouldn’t physically be here for another grandbaby never diminished your excitement—you had TWO granddaughters!

I hope to be a mother just like you.

Remember this past April when I was having all my stomach pains?

You jumped on a plane to stay a week with me and help me out around the house.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

And do you remember when you got that phone call a few weeks later, telling you my water had broke?

You jumped on a plane again and was here for the long haul.

You took care of my children and my house even though you longed to be by my side. But you trusted my steadfast husband to stay with me.

You stayed 6 whole weeks, taking every single one of your sick days without thinking twice.

I hope to be a mother just like you.

You see, Mama, I’m beginning to understand all those things I thought were once so strange. I understand now why you cried when our vans came back from camp. Or the bittersweet reasons you wanted me to have a daughter who acted just like me. Becoming a mother helped me understand all the reasons you do all that you do: because you love me and you want the very best for me.

And one day when my babies are grown and big, I want sacrificing to be like second nature to me. Just like it is for you. And when our girls get mad at me for being too mothering about their mothering, I’ll send them an email (or whatever it will be by then) apologizing and encouraging them, and telling them how I wish I could just shut up and not say anything. Then, I’ll call you and laugh and say, “Well, I’ve completely turned into you!” . . . with a grateful heart towards Jesus for giving me a such a wonderful gift I call my mother!

I love you, Mama!!

It's not always good days

2011-08-05T16:27:00.005-04:00

It's been a difficult day. Whiny kids. Bad attitudes. Harsh words. Oh, and that was just the first 2 hours of my morning. They were in the car for lunch. I should have just drove around, but Micah needed to eat.

We go home and I began feeding Micah. Elizabeth is yelling from the bathroom for me to come. It's never good when my children are in the bathroom alone. With Micah in one arm and the bottle in the other I barge in the bathroom to find Hannah Kate sucking on a tube of toothpaste.

I survive until nap time. And the girls began signaling all the signs it's 'that time.' More whining. More attitudes. More breakdowns. I read Elizabeth 4 books instead of just the usually 1 and bribe her with a prize if she takes a decent nap. It didn't work.

Nap time sounds more like a party, multiple disciplines happen, and after an exhausting hour and a half, I look down at my snoozing little boy and contemplate bailing out. Just the two of us.

Instead I opt to read some parenting book. I can't get through but a couple of paragraphs before I have to deal with disobedient children again. They go through seasons of thinking they don't need naps. At the age of 3 and 22 months they know better than mama. And then 6pm rolls around and all hell is breaking loose in their little worlds. The mere fact somebody looked at somebody causes major break downs. It really makes for a great way to top off such a WONDERFUL day.

I got on facebook to check out for a bit. I saw one of my friends was selling unused diapers and bottles and other baby things. And I completely lost it. She lost her little girl 3 months ago. She never got to use any of those baby things that once decorated her house in expecting hope of her little girl coming home. I don't know difficult days like she knows them.

It's another reminder of Psalm 39. Even though it's felt like a hard day in the motherhood, at least it's been another day. The fact they are able to whine, argue, and melt down is a mercy. It means their hearts are pumping and blood is moving and their lungs are filling. Oh, to have this perspective when 6pm rolls around will be a miracle. But I'm praying God would grant me the grace to see what sweet gifts my children are on the most difficult days. Because even the most "difficult" days with them is enough to make it absolutely wonderful.

Picture Thursday

2011-08-04T15:06:00.003-04:00

Sometimes princesses just need to have a fruit snack

and put on 'strawberry' lipstick.

I'm not sure what in my mind thought this was a good plan. My poor little Micah.

Hannah Kate has on the 'I'm about to mean' face. You can also tell by the location of her right (I think. I was never really good with my lefts and rights) hand wedging into the secure grip of her older sister.

See. Hannah Kate succeeded; and Elizabeth annoyingly says, "HANNNAH!"

The Highness rebukes. And Hannah says, "What?" trying to maintain her cute innocences.

Elizabeth, sweetie, get a picture of you holding your sister. Yeah, not sure why I thought this would work either.

Oh, well. I should just work with one kid, per picture.

Because they always end up so much better!

Psalm 39

2011-08-01T15:01:00.006-04:00

I think it was looking at this picture (we were only 19) and feeling like it was only yesterday I was hanging out at Goldston dorm with my, then, boyfriend. Or maybe it was today when I was feeding Micah and watching Elizabeth dance that it felt like only yesterday it was her I was cradling in my arms feeding. Or maybe it was this tear jerker of a book I read last night that confronted me anew that death is real and will take 100% of the human race at some point or another--including me, my husband, and children.

I knew for certain, though, that these thoughts were God ordained when I just so happen to read Psalm 39. A fleeting creature I am. A shadow. A mere breath.

It was this grace this morning that caused my heart to watch my kids eat breakfast and marvel at the fact that the Lord sustained all 5 beating hearts through the night. We woke up—a gift from God.

I realized this morning that not only am I undeserving to receive such good gifts, I am also undeserving to keep them. So once again, the Giver of all good gifts, lavished upon me these gifts for yet another day.

And this helped me embrace another full day of mothering 3 kids with a humbled heart inclined to gratitude towards a loving and good Father.

Big boy Micah

2011-07-27T17:28:00.003-04:00

Warning: This video contains a mama who excessively "baby talks" and continues to shoot due to excitement of catching baby smiling.

He weighs 9 lbs 6 oz and his hair is curly when we don't comb it. Tonight he is taking Mama out on a first date (along with daddy to give him some pointers) to the Saints game. I'm totally love-struck by this little fella.

Entirely way too many pictures for one blog post, but oh well.

2011-07-22T15:19:00.007-04:00

Look at this precious little goofy face

and this sweet little face that kinda reminds me of...

...this used-to-be-litte face

oh, Hannah Kate, seriously, I love your cheese face..

Girls, give me some crazy faces!!!

My eldest adores my youngest!

see.

and my middle child ALWAYS wants in on the loving action..

...and it's just a little TOO much loving for my little man.

so I enforce the no touch policy

and it lasted long enough for me to get the above picture.

so I throw in an extra play toy in the tub for the girls

he's really cute!

volia, freshly bathed goodies! I can almost smell this picture.

Hannah Kate and Micah look a lot like each other

maybe it's their eyes and mouth

but regardless of who looks like who, I got 2 out of the 3 looking at me.

and then I captured 2 out of the 3 smiling!

see, I told you she ALWAYS wants to love him...

...a little TOO much.

Our hands are full--our bathtub is full--our house is full--of all these very, VERY good things!

Update: q & a style

2011-07-01T11:53:00.007-04:00

Were there any issues prior to my water breaking?

In early April I started having severe stomach pains. The baby seemed fine and nothing alarming came back on any test I had, so we thought it was a bad case of acid reflux. It seemed resolved for 2 weeks and then I had another episode. I was actually in Labor and Delivery getting help for my stomach pains when my water broke.

So, what caused my water to break?

We found out during delivery that I had an abruption. My placenta was separating from my uterus. We also discovered after delivery, that my abruption was an old one, so that means it didn't happen during delivery (which can happen). Since severe stomach pain is a symptom of an abruption we aren't sure if the pain wasn't really an abruption. (did I say that right?) Or if my acid reflux caused an abruption. It's kind of like the chicken and egg--which came first, we aren't sure. All we know for sure is that my body was telling me it was time to deliver. You can imagine how thankful we are that the only complication we had was a premature baby considering all the effects an abruption can have.

What does this mean for my next pregnancy?

If you have an abruption you are likely to have another one, but I wouldn't be considered high risk or anything. If it were the pain that caused the abruption, my doctor would closely monitor and heavily treat the pain.

How was labor and delivery?

I was incredibly anxious. It was my first time being induced. I didn't realize it could be a day(s) process. They started ripening my cervix on Sunday. By early Monday morning I had pretty consistant, noticeable contractions. At 7:30am I was 2-3 cms dilated. Around 8am, I got my epidural (thank you Jesus for epidurals!) and they started Pictocin. At 8:30am I was feeling tons of pressure and was feeling no contractions (Thank you epidural!). At 8:45am I got checked and discovered another bag had formed and I was already 9 1/2 cms dilated. At this point the doctor knew I had an abruption. Once my bag was ruptured, I instantly went to 10 cms. The room filled up with the NICU team and with a team of nurses. It was the biggest crowd I've ever had for a delivery. All was well, until I started pushing and could actually feel it! (no thanks, epidural!) My first time ever feeling that pain. Needless to say, I was completely shocked and quite verbal that I was hurting. Then a crying Micah was born at 9:10am.

So labor and delivery was quick, scary, shocking, and joyous.

What was wrong with Micah?

Since my water broke at 33 weeks, I was too late to receive the steriod shot to help his lungs develop. Because his lungs didn't have time to mature, he had what they call Respiratory Distress Syndrome. In short, his lungs didn't have surfactant so his lung would completely collapse. They had to intubate him, and since his RDS was severe, they had to artificially give him the surfactant.

When he was no longer intubate, he would have breathing spells. Essentially he would forget to breath. Scary, I know. They say, though, that once he goes a week without having these spells, he shouldn't have them ever again.

He was also jaundice and didn't know how to suck quite yet. So he had to learn to suck, breath, and swallow. This was the longest process of our stay at the NICU, which we are incredibly thankful for.

Will he have any lasting effects?

Not sure. RDS increases his chances of having asthma and developing pneumonia and other respiratory infections from simple colds. Chances are if anything develops from a cold, he would be hospitalized. So we have to be careful about being around people with colds.

How much did he weigh and how much does he weigh now?

He was born at 4 lbs 11.5 oz. He dropped to 4lbs 1oz. And now weighs a whooping 7lbs 15oz.

How am I doing?

I am doing much better now that Micah is home. It was hard to always leave someone behind. I felt like I wasn't being a good mother to anyone. I couldn't 100% be there for our girls and I couldn't 100% be there for Micah. Mother guilt was eating me alive.

I am still in newborn baby fog. And I'm pretty sure my brain will never be as it was pre-children. They are worth every brain cell I'm losing. :)

How is Micah doing since being home?

Wonderful. He is eating like a champ. He is still pretty sleepy. So he eats and then for the most part goes right back to sleep. He is a pretty chill baby, except he has acid reflux. So when he's refluxing he cries for a minute or two, then he's done. The only other times he fusses is sometimes during his bottle (due to his reflux) and when his sweet sisters are loving on him too much.

He also is sleeping pretty well. Until Micah was 6 weeks old, we had to wake him every 3 hours even through the night. We just let him wake us to eat now. For about a week he'd have a bottle at 11pm and then wake up around 6am, but as of the last few nights, he has made it all the way to 8am.

How are the girls adjusting?

Great. They love him. Too much sometimes, but they are pretty sweet with him.

Hannah Kate is hitting the terrible two stage on top of adjusting to her baby brother. So she seems to be a little extreme. Sometimes she is super sweet kissing everyone, and the next she is screaming to the top of her lungs because Elizabeth is playing with the toy that she stopped playing with an hour ago.

Elizabeth has been caught trying to pick him up a few times because she said she wanted him to dance with her. And she also, out of the blue, started referring to him as 'dude.' In their eyes, he is definitely a keeper!

What exactly is his name and what does it mean?

Our son's name is a rhetorical question. His full name is Michaiah, which means "who (mi) is like (chai) YHWH ([y]ah)?" Micah is short for Michaiah. It works the same way as Mike is to Michael, or as Jon is to Jonathan. Here's our simple (I hope) MO on what we'll call him:

We'll generally call him both Michaiah and Micah (like how most people do the dual name thing with Jonathan). We'll introduce him primarily as Micah (because most people we meet don't know Hebrew and we don't want to be teachy every time we tell people our kids' names). The cool thing about saying his full name (for us) is that it evokes a heart of wonder and gratitude towards God.

In essence, we're not just saying a name that means something but we're actually speaking a sentence, we're asking a rhetorical question that rises from the hearts of those bewildered by God's grace that culminated in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Did I just answer that last question?

Nope, that was definitely Jonathan or Jon. But amen to what he said.

These are generally the questions I get asked. If there is any other question you'd like to ask, leave it in the comments and I'll answer it. Again, thanks to all who have prayed for us, sent us gifts, showered us with love, and served us with a meal, etc.

To my husband on his 26th birthday

2011-06-21T22:52:00.003-04:00

Husband of Grace,

These past 2 months have deepened my affections for you. You didn't hesitate to stay by my side as we awaited the unexpected delivery of our first born son at 34 weeks. You gladly waited. You held my hand. You hugged me as I cried. You gently pointed me to the gospel when I felt overcome by fear. You made me laugh. And you let me watch HGTV as much as I wanted.

You waited patiently with me, never grumbling about not being able to concentrate on your school work or about being cooped up in a hospital. You took care of our girls when I was unable to fully mother and you sweetly confirmed me in my temporary lack of ability to mother.

You were rock solid as the hour approached to meet our son. When I felt the pains of labor, you confidently coached me. You, after 2 other births, finally learned how to helpfully count to me. :)

You smiled relievingly with me as we heard our son's first cries. You faithfully stood by and watched our son struggle to breath. You took in all the information the doctor gave. And you cried as I cried in those first crucial 48 hours. You encouraged, confirmed, and comforted me as I struggled through life in the NICU and life at home.

It was a dark time for me and you unwaveringly stood by me. You have selflessly giving yourself to me for 4 years, but especially so in these last 2 months. You've stunningly displayed Christ's love for his church to me. And it's been remarkably sweet to walk with you in this difficult season.

You. What a sweet gift from the Lord!

So thankful for Jesus' life-altering grace in your life these past 26 years!

Singing with the animals

2011-06-14T19:17:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite princess inspired things that Elizabeth does as of late is when we go outside and she starts singing with animals.

Melt your heart Thursday

2011-06-09T14:03:00.003-04:00

Reasons 101 and 102 as to why I love my husband:

101: He sings princess love songs with our girls.

102: He allows me to post videos of him singing.

In case you haven't seen Tangled, they are recreating this scene.

One Month

2011-06-02T15:59:00.005-04:00

One exhausting roller-coaster of a month. Jesus is sustaining us and the Spirit is our comforter. And the Father continues to pour grace upon grace in our lives through you. Happy one month my little guy.

Quick update

2011-04-29T02:56:00.009-04:00

We are incredibly thankful to Jesus for the gift of our brothers and sisters who are praying for us. We are humbled by the help offered and the help thats been tangibly given.

My water broke on Wednesday morning. Thankfully I was in Labor and Delivery when it all happened (a story for a whole 'nother post). Here's an update on what's going on and how you can pray for us.

I'm on bedrest. I can only walk to the bathroom. I try to make the most of those 10 steps. (and I apologize in advance for my wordiness—I'm getting kinda bored). From what we have been told we are at a favorable stage for my water to have broken. 34 weeks is like the golden week. At this point keeping the baby inside becomes a greater risk than having a premature baby. I was 33 weeks and 3 days when my water broke, so it puts me close this delivery point.

They wouldn't stop labor if I were to go into labor right now, but they would like to see me get to 34 weeks, which is Sunday. So Sunday morning they will induce labor.

We had an ultrasound yesterday morning. The baby looked great (even smiled at us) and had some hair (isn't it amazing they can recognize that?) The baby also had a little fluid around, so that's a good thing. They estimated the baby's weight at 4 lbs 11 oz. Of course they can be off, but that is still a pretty good projected weight. And yes, we are still not telling what the gender is...

Praying for the baby:

to not have any infections before going into labor or after I deliver.
to have incredibly mature lungs. A main issue is how strong the lungs will be once the baby is breathing on her/his own.
to pick up eating quickly and to be able to gain and maintain his/her weight.
to be able to keep her/his body heat up.

Praying for Me:

Pray for rest. I've been pretty restless at night (due to some medicines) and haven't been able to get much sleep.
(semi) Fast and easy delivery
no complications with baby or me

Praying for Jon:

He is towards the end of his semester. Pray for grace to finish well.
Pray for him as he balances work in the midst of this.
Pray for him to get rest as his ancey wife bangs around the room.

Praying for our souls:

Pray that we would trust more in the person of Christ then in how well we can articulate the relationship between God's sovereignty and goodness.
Pray for us to believe the immeasurable riches of God's grace to us in Christ Jesus. We know we don't deserve any of the good gifts God has given, and (in unbelief) we feel we are capping out God's grace and mercy to us with 2 healthy children and our own health.
Pray for us to continue to trust God with our little premie in the weeks after her/his birth
Pray for us to know that our faith is secured on the rock-solid foundation Who won't be shaken.
Pray for wisdom in how to balance life with 2 young children at home and a newborn who is expected to stay anywhere from 2-6 weeks in the hospital.

My mom was able to get a flight and arrive in Minneapolis at 4 pm on Wednesday. So she has the girls while Jon and I are camping out here. She's been a great help. At this point, I'm not sure about details of other help. Thanks so much for all the offers. I'll keep you all posted.

We're deeply grateful.

You know you might have OD'd on some princesses...

2011-04-25T15:58:00.005-04:00

when you are listening to other princess music and look over to discover your little girl trying to brush her knotty hair with a used plastic fork from last night...

Overheard Friday

2011-04-22T13:07:00.003-04:00

I overheard Elizabeth saying all this today:

(To Jonathan as he was leaving for work this morning): Kiss me! Kiss me! Kiss me, Prince!

(To Hannah Kate who was touching the trash can): Parnell! Don't do that!

(As we were talking about Good Friday and Resurrection): And the Father raised him from the dead so he could eat more bread!

(Her random song while playing with playdough): Jesus, try some ice cream. Jesus, try some ice cream. I love you Jesus. I need you to forgive me. I love you, Jesus. Jesus, try some ice cream

Things that make my heart happy...

2011-04-19T13:09:00.004-04:00

...seeing this beauty belt out princess songs in all her princess garb. I hate you can't really hear her little voice, but trust me, if I'd turned down her princess music, mama would have been yell at and and a tantrum possibly ensued.

My two beauties

2011-03-29T23:18:00.006-04:00

I still can't believe that when I look into my rearview mirror and see this sweetness...

and this serious cuteness...

..that I'm their Mama. It's a joy and I feel incredibly humbled that God has entrusted me with these two (and the one on the way!) to live out the Gospel in front of. I constantly fail as a mother who is to display this. But, it's my desperate prayer that the Gospel will take root in my own heart and that through this jar of clay, Jesus would radiate as the beautiful, all satisfying treasure that he is. Lord, please give grace to do this whole mothering thing!

These precious gifts have given this mama a good dose of her own neediness of God. I'll never be able to 'shepherd their hearts' unless his grace penetrates to the depths of their hearts. No matter how good or bad of a mother I am. And I'm learning it's a very good thing to be needy. My girls are teaching me this and I'm thankful for that blessing.

Now, to figure out how to get the glasses off this little diva without her throwing a fit...

...well, I'll figure it out another day. I want to enjoy these sweet-ain't-a-hill-to-die-on moments with my girls.

To my husband on our 4th anniversary

2011-03-03T16:56:00.003-05:00

Jonathan,

“Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

I never knew when we read this verse at our wedding it could be added, “where winter feels eternal and summer too short lived.” :) But as C. S. Lewis says in The Four Loves, “Better this than parting. Better to be miserable with [you] than happy without [you]. Let our hearts break provided they break together.” I can’t believe we live in Minneapolis and have 3 babies. What sweet grace it’s been to me to be your wife these four years!

I’m incredibly thankful for you. Thankful that of all the people to be paired together, that God orchestrated our hearts be put together. God did exceedingly and abundantly more than I could have ever imagined when he gave me you as my husband. You’ve been such a beautiful and imperfect picture of Christ’s love for his bride. I’m thankful for how diligently you seek to serve me. And I’m thankful how you pursue me even when I’m most unlovable. Thankful for you with deep gratitude to Jesus is how I feel on this 4th anniversary as your bride. I still can’t believe you asked me!

I love you forever,

Melissa

There's no denying these kids of ours...

2011-03-02T13:48:00.006-05:00

I can't deny her...

expect for maybe her hair. mine has never been that straight unless I use a straightener.

and the only thing this kid got from me (besides her awesome dance moves) is her hair and occasionally our side profiles resemble.

But really, he can't deny her...

Nope.

And it's not that we ever want to deny them (well, maybe on the occasions when they are going nuts)...it's just fun to see how different they look and wonder what in the world baby Parnell #3 will look like.

us with the sweet fruit of our love (i can't really say it with a straight face) on the eve of our 4th anniversary...

A Letter to My Mom on my Birthday (posted a few days late)

2011-03-01T17:54:00.003-05:00

Mom,

I never knew how differently I would view my birthday after I gave birth to our firstborn. 21 years of celebrating and never once did I understand who the real star was. That’s how it is to be a mom—your baby in the spotlight while you are beaming in the shadows.

I understand your sacrifice for me. Nine months of discomfort. Morning sickness, tiredness. Indigestion, heartburn, aching back. Stretch marks, weight gain. Oh, and then labor. You should of hated me by the time I came on that early February 26th morning. But no, it was love at first sight, and all that you experienced you’d experience a hundred times more for me—your little girl. It makes my eyes water to think of the intensity in which you loved me the moment you knew about me. I know. I’ve felt it three times now.

Not only did you sacrifice your body for me but you sacrificed your life. Not that you ever had to jump in front of a bullet to save me. But wow, did you sacrifice on a daily basis. You sacrificed your privacy, your time, your patience, your brainpower. I know it was no small feat to raise me, especially when you were mainly doing it yourself.

I never felt your sacrifice (then) and I never felt the need to pay you back. You so selflessly gave all for me. And I’m incredibly thankful. Thankful for your unconditional love, for your time, for your energy. Thankful for your courage and strength. Thankful for the sacrifice you went through physically and emotionally the day you delivered me. Thankful that you, of all the mamas in the world, are my mama. And I’m thankful for the depth which I understand your love for me when I look at these beautiful girls dancing in my living room and this little one wrecking havoc on my bladder. You thought I was your gift that day—but you were mine. I’m so thankful to Jesus for the gift you are to me today. I love you more than these words can express!

Hannah Kate's future hair style

2011-02-23T23:31:00.004-05:00

Should it be...

A. Snow White?

B. Ariel?

C. Or Sleeping Beauty?

I know, she looks like a toddler Joe Dirt

And just to show some love to my big princess...

our unanimous valentine

2011-02-14T11:25:00.003-05:00

I understand how you've stolen their hearts--the same charming reasons you've stolen mine. We love you, Valentine!!

Hannah Kate"s big girl hair cut

2011-02-08T12:23:00.005-05:00

Before pictures:

ok, mom, that's enough...

The after:

work that camera, girl

**thanks again Janelle for your visit! We had a great time!

Ariel

2011-02-01T11:01:00.003-05:00

My mom (aka Grandma) got Elizabeth some princess wigs for Christmas. I think they are absolutely hysterical.

And I'm pretty sure she was freaking herself out looking in the mirror.

Rachel Karis or Micah Edward?

2011-01-26T22:30:00.008-05:00

I got sent away for an extended weekend by my sweet husband, with some dear girlfriends to FLORIDA! It was was -18 degrees when we left Minneapolis on Friday and we arrived to 65 degree weather of Orlando that night. A sweet friend who lives there hooked us up with Disney tickets, a car, and some fresh oranges from their family's orange grove. (THANKS AGAIN, JOHNSONS!) And one of my girlfriend's parents-in-laws gracious let us use their points to get nice, free hotels. (THANKS TONGS!) We were so incredibly blown away by everyone's generosity to us.

(oh, and ps-we are expecting our 3rd baby in early June, in case you haven't read on facebook/twitter)

But back to the point of this post: Who's first trip to Florida was it? Little Micah Edward or Rachel Karis?

both pictures at 20 weeks pregnant

We know--but we aren't telling. Cast your votes for some mad bragging rights about guessing the correct gender of baby Parnell #3.

"I'm Daddying"

2011-01-07T10:06:00.004-05:00

2 things that are funny to me about this video:

1. She does a pretty good impersonation of Jonathan typing.

2. How drawn out and southern she says 'da-add.'

Happy 3rd Birthday, Precious Daughter!

2010-12-25T23:28:00.007-05:00

No matter how big you get, you will always be Mommy's baby. I am thankful for the kind reminder in you of God's goodness to us. I love you!

Our Winter Wonderland

2010-12-11T16:03:00.003-05:00

We are getting hit pretty hard by a winter storm. This is by far the worst one we've experienced in our 3 winters here. Our neighbors came out and played in the snow, so Jonathan was eager to let Elizabeth get out there for her first time to play in it. I'm glad she got to enjoy it because along with this storm comes plummeting temperatures. So we'll enjoy tomorrow's high of 0 from inside our very warm house.

And here's a video. Sorry. I'm very aware I'm not a videographer by any stretch of the imagination...but maybe it will you give you a glimpse of our real life snow globe...

Hosting our first Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T22:06:00.003-05:00

The entire gang, excluding Steven who was capturing the moment

6 out of the 7 kids...

and my extraverted child hyped about all her playmates...

Thanks Stephanie for the pictures!

Video Friday: Featuring a spinning Hannah Kate and a laughing Elizabeth

2010-10-29T15:40:00.001-04:00

Hannah has been cracking us up with her latest trick...

Happy Birthday, Hannah Kate!

2010-10-25T16:18:00.005-04:00

Hannah Katherine,

It seems like only yesterday I first laid my eyes on you.

Then I blinked and you turned into a babbling, crawling, full of personality, beautiful little girl.

My only compliant is that it happened entirely too fast. What a blessing you have been to us! We love you more than words can express. May Jesus be satisfyingly sweet to you, my little one.

Random: Music Class, Vacation, and Children's Museum

2010-10-17T12:43:00.004-04:00

A picture of Hannah at our last music class

A picture of Elizabeth pushing the Juliana and Hannah on our vacation

Hannah at the Children's Museum

again...

pretty eyes...

Elizabeth building a tower

Hannah spotting the tower...

and taking it down.

And two videos from our trip to the Children's Museum

This was a part where a song would play and she could see herself on the TV. She had a blast.

So speaking of leaving the girls at home with their daddy...

2010-10-15T12:37:00.002-04:00

..I did it again. I went out to coffee with a dear friend and came home to Jonathan telling me another funny story.

Jonathan was doing work. Hannah was in her bouncy seat and Elizabeth was listening to her CD in our room. He heard Elizabeth run to the kitchen where she dragged her stool to the sink. Over running water, Jonathan could hear her saying, "It's otay. Ok? It's otay." He went to investigate and found Elizabeth like this....

She had gotten in to my mascara on my desk. When Jonathan went to ask her what she was doing, she defensively said, "but daddy, my make-up!"

and one more for good pleasure...

Video Friday

2010-10-08T11:23:00.002-04:00

I left Jonathan at home with the girls for a brief grocery run and this is the kind of video I come home to.....

....poor Hannah...

the sweet baby girl...

2010-10-01T12:36:00.004-04:00

In 24 more days, we'll officially have a 1 year old! I.can't.believe.it...

Hannah crawls around the house calling for ma-ma. If I want her to say it, all I have to do is say, "yes baby!" and she does. She also has picked up no no. Surprise, surprise...And she doesn't say "all done," but I thought it was funny she attempted.

Music Class

2010-09-27T12:27:00.006-04:00

There are some free music classes at a library near us. We had to sign Elizabeth up since she loves music and because it was free. 2 for 2, people!

Here's a video of her singing and dancing with her favorite dance partner: The infamous Christian

Hannah Kate joined us and had a blast with her friend Noelle. She had particularly enjoyed playing with Noelle's name tag.

Good times with my girls.

Little Girl...

2010-09-25T12:01:00.003-04:00

Stop growing up so fast.

Love,

Mom

Sister Talk

2010-09-24T15:54:00.002-04:00

Elizabeth can get Hannah Kate to say "Da da."

Our Photobooth Fun

2010-09-16T11:53:00.007-04:00

This is the picture that started it all:

and I just loved it, so it continued....

Then Daddy jumped on the band wagon...

And then we all did...

We did mix it up from time to time...

Then I got the first picture with Hannah Kate:

And here are some pictures just because I think they are cute:

I wanted to get one with all of us doing it. This is the best I could get for now:

Guess who this is?

The Princess Dance

2010-09-03T12:24:00.001-04:00

A sweet afternoon with the big girl

2010-09-02T11:27:00.003-04:00

The other afternoon I got Elizabeth up from her nap. She was so wiped out that she just kept sleeping in my arms. I just had to get a picture incase it was the last time, but I really hope it wasn't the last.

Update on Hannah Kate!

2010-09-01T23:46:00.005-04:00

I love this one and all it's blurry glory

Elizabeth is the most interesting family member. And I think we'd all agree, we never know what.exactly. she's up too. And her hair. it so reminds me of my hair at her age. thick and curly.

By the way, she's not naked. She has a diaper on. That would be weird to put her in an oversized undie that let you bounce around.

Yes, that's freshly bathed sweetness right there.

"MOM!" ok, ok. i'll quit gushing and get on with the update.

Hannah had her 9-month appointment. (It actually turned into more like her 10 month appointment, but nonetheless.) I was more than pleased to learn she had gained 4 pounds since her 6-month check up. She is at 18 lbs 10 oz putting her in the 30th percentile for weight. Then she almost went off the charts with her height, 30 inches, putting her in the 95th percentile for height. The doctor concluded she is long and lean like mom. We love, love her doctor, by the way. She has been so helpful to us and encouraging! We did have some concerns since Hannah wasn't really gaining weight well and having episodes of diarrhea, but we seem to have coasted out of it. And we are thankful!

She currently has 6 teeth. And 6 more are coming in! The kid is a teething machine. 2 teeth have broken through the gum and the other 4 are busting to come out. She is pretty pleasant to be teething like she is. We haven't really noticed a difference in her temperament or sleeping, which is a huge praise. So we are thankful for such an encouraging check up and even more thankful to Jesus for giving us such a sweet blessing!

"Ok. Bye!" Yep, mom caught a mid wave with her mad camera skills.

Uncle Joel (Long post warning)

2010-08-30T14:55:00.020-04:00

So once upon a time this guy

and this guy

were roommates. Through the course of living together and a Bible study group a great friendship was sparked. Then one day, Joel was walking with Jonathan when (according to Jon) the key event that unite Jonathan and I back together happened. Joel was there from the second beginning of our relationship. He even captured (literally and figuratively) our most angelic picture together...

and our not so angelic picture...

To make a long story short, we all became like family:

Joel has been apart of so many of our milestones. He was playing the guitar when Jonathan proposed to me. I still remember looking at him like 'is this fo' real?' when I walked up the stairs to meet Jonathan. He even put together a video of our proposal. The program crashed after we had seen it, so it's lost for.ev.er. (said Sandlot style) RIP proposal video!

Then of course he was apart of the wedding:

Then Jon and Joel graduated together:

Then he was there to share in the joy of the birth of our firstborn, Elizabeth Grace or 'EG' as he called her:

Then the time came where we discovered our paths were taking us to opposite ends of the world. Literally. He was headed to Asia and we were headed to Minneapolis. So along with our 7 month Elizabeth, we told Uncle Joel goodbye.

and 'EG' didn't like the whole goodbye thing:

But we knew, Lord willing, we'd see each other again in 2 years. And just this past Tuesday, Joel flew in to MSP and we reunited with him. It was a sweet thing to see him in person and to officially introduce him to Hannah.

One of the highlights of the trip for me was Uncle Joel reading Hudson Taylor to Elizabeth:

I had dreamed of it for awhile since every time we read the book Uncle Joel and 'Asia' came up. It was great to pray for Uncle Joel as he kneeled in the floor of the girls bedroom where we had offered up many prayers for him and the "Hilltoppers" with our daughters over the past 2 years. And it was great seeing Elizabeth treating him like a Hero and how sweetly and swiftly Hannah would crawl to Joel when she spotted him. Joel was great with the girls offering to help with them any chance he got and playing with them non stop if they were up. It was incredibly sweet to me. (Thanks Joel!)

It was great for us to hang out and have grown-up time too. Joel is seriously one of the funniest people I know.

Last but not least, here is a picture of the guys the last time they were in Minneapolis together:

2006 DG National Conference

Then in 2010:

Joel, we are so thankful to Jesus for His sweet providence in knitting all our hearts together. We realize our friendship with you is a tangible expression of God's grace lavished on us in Christ. Thank you for your example of giving up comforts to help further the Gospel to the nations. We are thankful our children have heroes like Hudson Taylor and Uncle Joel; and we are so grateful how God has used you to stirred our own hearts to think about and love the nations more. We love you and look forward to seeing you soon!

The Culbreth's visit

2010-08-29T15:51:00.003-04:00

My cousin Susan, Mac (her husband), Caleb and Katee Grace (their children) came up to visit us. We were so humbled because they could have gone anywhere and they choose to spend their vacation with us! The kids had such a great time (like they always do!) and picked up like they hadn't left off. Sadly, I was trying to soak it all in and didn't get a hardly any pictures, but these are ones I did get. Elizabeth still thinks that 'Max' is trying to get her and randomly wants to know if Katee Grace and Cay-wub is coming to play.

Thanks again for coming you guys! We love you!

We went to the Zoo on Saturday. It was a lot of fun! Here is Jonathan and Elizabeth:

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2010-08-27T19:07:00.000-04:00

Happy 10 Months baby girl!

2010-08-26T11:32:00.004-04:00

Happy...

(...ok, maybe if Mommy doesn't make us have impromptu photo sessions...)

10 months!

Hannah still has blue eyes and pretty straight hair. She gave up sucking her thumb for her index finger. She laughs a lot. Smiles a lot. Is sometimes pretty serious. She can clap and wave. She randomly signs please and all done. She can say Da-da and ma-ma. Recently (like the last 2 days ago) she has repeated bye and hi. She has 6 teeth. (yep, 6!) and looks like she is cutting another one up top. She is super happy. Does a high pitch squeal when she doesn't get what she wants. Likes to play. Still army crawls. Loves to stand. Adores big sister and all her princess dolls. Laughs at all of daddy's joke. She's a mama's girl, though. And we've been smitten with her since we discovered she was in the womb. She has added to the richness of our lives in so many ways. She is such a joy. A gift. A pure delight. We are so thankful to Jesus for our blessing in Hannah Katherine. We are reminded of His grace in every smile, tooth, tear, and milestone we encounter with her, knowing each day is a sweet gift to us.

We love you, sweet baby girl, and we are so thankful for the past 10 months we've gotten to spend with you in our arms.

I love that.. I love when... I even love... I love how... I love the way... I just plum love you.

2010-08-23T17:50:00.004-04:00

I love that God has redeemed you.
I love the many evidences of grace that He is working in you.
I love being your wife.
I love that you are the father of our children.
I love the way you love our girls.
I love the way you seek to serve me.
I love the way you encourage me to be a better mom/wife.
I love the way you encourage and compliment our daughters.
I love that Elizabeth is a complete daddy’s girl.
I love that you can be goofy.
I love that you can be serious.
I love that you like to grocery shop.
I love how you desire to be a better husband/father
I love how you pray for me.
I love how you pray for our daughters.
I love how you lead us well in the Gospel.
I love how you are leading us to live the Gospel with joy and not as burdensome.
I love how you seek to serve others at Desiring God.
I love that you are sensitive to my needs, and do so with joy.
I love settling into bed with you each night--even if you are a crazy sleeper.
I love that you are a morning person.
I love that you are beginning to accept that I’m NOT a morning person. :)
I love that you like to cook.
I love that you don’t mind doing house work.
I love that you don’t mind watching our girls anytime I need some ‘me’ time.
I love that as I write 25 things that I love about you, my eyes well up with tears thinking about my deep affection I have for you.
I even love the way you give a terrible 2 minute back rub.
I love how excited Elizabeth is when daddy is home.
I love that Elizabeth calls you ‘Handsome Daddy.’
I love how big Hannah Kate smiles when you talk to her.
I love that you aren’t afraid to do our girls hair.
I love how you leave me love notes.
I love how handsome you are.
I love how protective you are over your time in the Word and prayer.
I love that Jesus emanates through you in all areas of your life.
I love how patient you are with me.
I love how you desire to love me as Christ loves me.
I love that you like to tickle me.
I love how you compliment me.
I love the way our girls smell like you after you snuggle with them.
I love (most of the time) that Elizabeth is fearless with you because she trusts you so.
I love how you protect me from things/people that hurt me.
I love how good your hug feels.
I love the way you work hard to provide for us.
I love how diligent and disciplined you are with your schedule so you can spend quality time with us.
I love how safe I feel with you.
I love that you are my best friend.
I even love how you steal the covers at night.
I love that you don’t dwell on my many imperfections, and that most of the time you hardly even notice them.
I love how beautiful you write.
I love that you are a tangible way of seeing Christ’s grace lavished on me.
I love how you encourage me in my weaknesses.
I love how soft and gentle you point out my sin.
I love how God shows you sweet things in the Word.
I love that you like to make up fun games.
I love how well you can draw.
I love that you are a book worm.
I love how wide eyed you get when you are excited about something.
I love how particular you are about your books, Bible, desk, computer and other things.
I love how sensitive you are to the Spirit.
I love how passionate you are.
I love how often you speak words of grace to me.
I love your love for other people.
I love how shepherd-like your heart is towards others.
I love how your head has to rest just right on your pillow and how your arms have to lay perfectly flat when you go to sleep.
I even love how terrible you are with time.
I love that you like to have cereal dates with me.
I love how you respect me.
I love how you encourage my walk with the Lord.
I love that you like to hold my hand even when it’s sweaty.
I love your smile.
I love that you say a blessing over our girls every night and each morning you are home with them.
I love how Jesus has radical changed your life. I love how God has graciously allowed me to watch your transformation and that I'm able to continue to watch you conform to His likeness.
I love that you have been my boyfriend since 16.
I love that you’ve been my husband for 3 1/2 years and counting...
I love how tender you are towards our daughters.
I love that you're passionate about things that I’m passionate about.
I love that you don’t mind eating cereal or sandwiches for dinner sometimes.
I love how much I feel your love.
I love that you like to have fun.
I love how bummed you are when the Cardinals lose.
I love that you like to learn.
I love how you want to go get our girls after they’ve been in bed only an hour.
I love that you can be spontaneous and adventurous.
I love when you write sweet blog post about our daughters.
I love how available you are to us.
I love that you like to do 15 push-ups when you think you’ve eaten bad.
I even love how you criticize every chick flick.
I love how you give me charitable judgement, even when I’m not as quick to show it to you.
I love when you try to impress me.
I love how you desire to be above reproach.
I love how forthright you are.
I love how crazy you are over our girls.
I love that you point me to Jesus.
I love how quick you are to reconcile after a fight.
I love how close I feel to you.
I love how I can read you like a book.
I love that you can complete my sentences.
I love how effortlessly this list was to create and how many more reasons I could come up with.
I love that I will love you forever and that one day my love for you will be perfected.

and I love that all of this is because of His immeasurable grace.

I love you, Jonathan!

Pictures of mainly of Hannah Kate

2010-08-17T12:16:00.003-04:00

Fun games Elizabeth plays with Daddy

2010-08-16T11:50:00.002-04:00

Warning Grandparents: not responsible for any heart damage...

Tigers, Monkeys, Pigs. Picking a Cow's nose, cow eating skirt, and kissing a boy. Our Zoo adventure!

2010-08-13T13:09:00.007-04:00

Tigers...

Monkeys...

Pigs....

(sittin' on a pig )

Picking a Cow's nose...

Cow eating a skirt...

and kissing a boy....

(uh-oh dad!)

If she didn't love them so much, I would think she was making fun of them:

2010-08-09T16:09:00.002-04:00

Hannah Waves

2010-08-06T17:32:00.001-04:00

a stand-up gal

2010-08-03T10:45:00.003-04:00

Introducing Cinderella...

2010-08-01T18:11:00.002-04:00

And Hannah Kate's new tricks: knowing where all the toys are at...

...and standing up by herself...

A Message to Uncle Joel

2010-07-29T10:41:00.002-04:00

Uncle Joel has been a hot topic for Elizabeth at night time since she has been able to communicate. She associates that when night time comes, the sun is going to say hello to Uncle Joel. Not to mention she is really into Hudson Taylor, so we can't help but to talk about Uncle Joel when we read that book. (for the umpteenth time that day). We draw him. Look at his facebook picture. Pray for him often. She knows about China and now she is learning about America...because Uncle Joel is coming back in a week! To say we are excited is an understatement!

We are thankful for you Uncle Joel and are looking forward to seeing you in late August!

I never thought I could be a violent mother...

2010-07-27T15:22:00.005-04:00

I tried to prepare well for motherhood from the very moment I found out that Elizabeth existed. People gave me great advice. Sometimes it was overwhelming. Sometimes it was encouraging. And sometimes it was just plum scary. The one recurring thing with the advice was that it pointed me to my own neediness. I need God to give me grace to mother well. In my journal, I mean blog, I thought it would only be appropriate to write about what advice didn’t prepare me for. So bear with me. The next couple of posts will be boring for those who only want pictures or videos.

One thing I didn’t expect was how strong the mother-hen syndrome (MHS) would hit me. I nannied for a wonderful family for most of my pregnancy. Though they weren’t my children, I often felt MHS creeping as I carried Elizabeth in my womb. There was once an encounter with a snake. I rest assure that you have never seen a 7 month-pregnant woman sweep up 18 month old twins and sprint for the door like I did. I giggle at the mental picture I have of that day. It was defining for me: the possible threat that snake posed to those children were enough to overcome my natural tendency to faint, and empower me to be willing to choke that thing if I needed to. Thank God I didn’t need to.

Even though I felt a hint of MHS while nannying, it was nothing like I expected when I first held Elizabeth. I can’t explain it to you. Have you ever been angry at a well meaning person who didn’t burp your baby? I have. (Full confession: I actually envision myself body-slamming them through a wall).

I know. It’s bizarre and a little over the top. Body-slamming a person for loving on your baby and not burping them? It didn’t matter the ‘what’ behind their ‘well-meaningness’, it was knowing that my little girl not burping was going to cause her stomach to ache hours later. I didn’t want my baby to hurt no matter what the intentions were. Ok, and I was a little hormonal. :)

My mother-hen syndrome has leveled out some now. I don’t feel the weight on my chest of protecting my little ones for not getting burped properly. I feel it more when I hear a startling noise while I’m at home caring for them. I’ve never been the type to rush to investigate a strange noise. But since becoming a mother, I almost hate it for the person who would present danger for my little ones. I know the outcome probably wouldn’t go as well as I imagine if someone were to come in. I mean, maybe I couldn’t really rip out their heart with my bare hands--but honey--you can believe one thing: I’d die trying, for the sake of protecting my little babes.

Hannah Kate's play date

2010-07-26T15:11:00.005-04:00

So Hannah....

had her first play date with baby Noelle...

And I wanted to get some pictures of them (they are only 6 weeks apart!)

But Hannah wanted to be on the go.

Finally, she sat still, but an entertaining 2 1/2 year old had their attention...

so this is the best I could get

Because then Hannah fell...

**post-loving picture, of course

Despite the photo session, they had a great time 'playing' together.

some more of Hannah's new tricks

2010-07-23T22:11:00.005-04:00

This always gets a laugh out of me:

**and I never think I sound that southern until I hear myself on video....

And her first ponytail!

Contrasted with big sisters first ponytail:

Two of my favorite songs

2010-07-10T16:59:00.004-04:00

I tried to get Elizabeth to sing these songs for me so I could capture them on video. I had abandon my efforts (I will spare all the whining videos of her refusing and me begging.) But last night after she was finishing her dinner, she sweetly said, "Mama, want me to sing Zacchaeus?" It was a sweet moment for this mother.

The first song is "Zacchaeus was a wee little man." I personally love her 'tude when it comes to telling Zacchaeus to come down. I have no idea who she got that from. Oh, and the fact it's the southern version, "I'm coming to your house for tea." (thanks grandma)

The second song is "Row, row, row your boat." She says, 'murrily, murrily, murrily,' for 'merrily, merrily, merrily." Seriously, can she be any more adorable?

So without further ado:

new things going on...

2010-07-09T12:31:00.005-04:00

Bear with the video. If she didn't think I was so darn hilarious she would have showed her new trick with a lot more swiftness.

Passed out from ~~laughing so hard at mama~~ all that army crawling

a genius

2010-07-02T11:48:00.002-04:00

(I mean, I know every mom thinks that their child is a genius. But serious, Elizabeth really is. She just read her first book at 2 1/2!)

**notice when it gets to grandpa, she says grandpoppy. she calls jonathan's dad, 'Poppy.'

Most of All Jesus Loves You by Noel Piper is one of our favorite books. I usually whisper most of the book in Elizabeth's ear when tuck her in at bedtime.

Two things I love about this book:

1. It reminds me that as much as I love our children, it's only a foretaste to the love Jesus has for His children. I want to point my children with my love to a better, greater, and perfect love in Jesus.

2. Elizabeth loves to proclaim what the book tells: Jesus loves you! So much so, that she likes to read her book to Cinderella (and Hannah when she isn't napping).

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T11:10:00.006-04:00

Jonathan,

Can you believe it has been 3 years and a couple of months ago since the day I told you? Sitting on our couch in Wake Forest, I watched you behind tear filled eyes as you opened a gift that I knew was going to change your life (our lives) forever. I still laugh when I think back to it. You thought I had gotten you an iPod. Your face was priceless as you read a white and pink bib that said, "I love Daddy." It's a memory that will always be dear to me.

I never doubted that you would be a great father. But the grace God has lavished on you to lead and love your family well has surpassed all I could have ever thought or asked from Him. When I think about you as my husband and you as the father to our girls, I can't help but to think of God and his sweet mercy and grace to me. You are a great gift to us.

I could not imagine anyone else I would want to be alongside of in this journey of parenthood than with you. Thanks for loving the Gospel in such a way that you turn us to Jesus and shows us the greatness and life-giving joy of being in Jesus.

You are a father for our joy and God's glory. We love you!

Your girls.

The Parnells

The Tale Of Two Mornings

Absolutely Glorious

Auto-tuned Bed time Song

Catching up with the Parnells

Happy Birthday, Elizabeth Grace!

All things Hannah Kate

Our Christmas Card

Thankful That He Prays

I told Elizabeth I ate all her Halloween Candy

Micah: 6 months old

A visit with Uncle Joel

First Days

Elizabeth's Preschool Orientation

Hannah Kate and her hair!

Our Hannah Kate

Happy 4 months, Micah!

A birthday poem to the greatest woman ever!

It's not always good days

Picture Thursday

Psalm 39

Big boy Micah

Entirely way too many pictures for one blog post, but oh well.

Update: q & a style

To my husband on his 26th birthday

Singing with the animals

Melt your heart Thursday

One Month

Quick update

Praying for the baby:

Praying for Me:

Praying for Jon:

Praying for our souls:

You know you might have OD'd on some princesses...

Overheard Friday

Things that make my heart happy...

My two beauties

To my husband on our 4th anniversary

There's no denying these kids of ours...

A Letter to My Mom on my Birthday (posted a few days late)

Hannah Kate's future hair style

our unanimous valentine

Hannah Kate"s big girl hair cut

Ariel

Rachel Karis or Micah Edward?

"I'm Daddying"

Happy 3rd Birthday, Precious Daughter!

Our Winter Wonderland

Hosting our first Thanksgiving

Video Friday: Featuring a spinning Hannah Kate and a laughing Elizabeth

Happy Birthday, Hannah Kate!

Random: Music Class, Vacation, and Children's Museum

So speaking of leaving the girls at home with their daddy...

Video Friday

the sweet baby girl...

Music Class

Little Girl...

Sister Talk

Our Photobooth Fun

The Princess Dance

A sweet afternoon with the big girl

Update on Hannah Kate!

Uncle Joel (Long post warning)

The Culbreth's visit

Happy Birthday Grandma!

Happy 10 Months baby girl!

I love that.. I love when... I even love... I love how... I love the way... I just plum love you.

Pictures of mainly of Hannah Kate

Fun games Elizabeth plays with Daddy

Tigers, Monkeys, Pigs. Picking a Cow's nose, cow eating skirt, and kissing a boy. Our Zoo adventure!

If she didn't love them so much, I would think she was making fun of them:

Hannah Waves

a stand-up gal

Introducing Cinderella...

A Message to Uncle Joel

I never thought I *could* be a violent mother...

Hannah Kate's play date

some more of Hannah's new tricks

Two of my favorite songs

new things going on...

I never thought I could be a violent mother...