The Roemer Family

Ella

2012-02-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

I'll be back soon

2012-01-31T21:14:00.000-08:00

I will return! I need to post Ella's 15 months picture, I need to edit January photos, I need to grade

papers and projects, I need to do laundry, make beds, cook meals, clean, exercise, play, and rest. I'll get to it all, but right now I'm focusing on taking care of this precious family of mine.

Family

2012-01-24T13:25:00.000-08:00

These precious kids make me smile.

Sweets with the Sweetie

2012-01-17T12:41:00.000-08:00

Eli LOVES to be a helper and he loves to bake. Almost every day he wants to make some type of treat. I know he likes the sweets, but I also know he loves this time with me. It's a time when he can be messy. It's a time just for the two of us. It's kind of "our thing." This Christmas we made peppermint fudge and Eli was helpful like always. He also likes to sneak other treats while working (note the cookie). I do have to the share this extremely EASY recipe. It's a 3 minute, 3 ingredient recipe. Perfect for the busy holiday season.

1 14 oz can of condensed milk

1 package of Andes mint chips

1 package of semi-sweet morsels

Combine chips in bowl

Mix in condensed milk

Microwave for 3 min

Pour in pan and let cool

Add crushed peppermint candies

I also want to remember a few other things about Eli.

*He calls the movie theater, the movie-ve-ater

*He had his adenoids and tonsils removed mid-December and proved once again how brave and resilient he is

*He had a little mickey mouse voice for about a week after this. It was ADORABLE.

*He can't get enough of his Nintendo DS or the Wii. He is my little technology boy. He knows more about an I-Pad than I do.

*He loves to read books with me, but only in his bedroom.

*He adores Ella, calling her "sweet little chubby cheeks" and "baby chubs." He often comes running upstairs to take a bath with her, even if he is doing something more fun. He just can't get over how soft she is. He's not too old to share a bath with his sister yet!

*He had his first bout of the flu in December. That kid had never vomited before. He had also never been on an antibiotic till this fall. He is one healthy boy. The removal of his tonsils was due to sleep apnea issues.

*He is tall and VERY skinny.

*He loves school and riding the bus, even though he was pushed to the ground on the bus last week. (This mommy got a little territorial on that one)

*When nap time comes and I'm snuggled next to him in his bed, he just stares at me, telling me I'm his best friend. I tell him I could stare at those amazing eyes all day but, it's time to sleep. Last week he looked at me and said, "Mommy, you are so pretty. I could stare at you forever." Then he wants to have a staring contest, which he always wins.

*There are thousands of other memories, some I'll keep close to my heart, some I'll forget and some I won't even know are shaping him into the man he will become.

Christmas Rewind....Owen's Program

2012-01-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

Figuring it out....

2012-01-10T19:33:00.001-08:00

I'm trying to figure out how to make my pictures bigger, but in the process my header went HUGE. I'll be working on this, but I must sleep now.

Sweet dreams!

Your Name is our Favorite Word

2012-01-10T12:46:00.000-08:00

We thank you, God, we thank you— your Name is our favorite word;
your mighty works are all we talk about.

Psalm 75:1 (The Message)

I chose the word healthy to be "our word" for 2012 and then I read this scripture and changed my mind!

YOUR NAME, LORD. That is our favorite word. It defines us. Shapes us. Makes us.

Here's to a year filled with THE BEST WORD IN ALL OF HISTORY!

Christmas Baby

2012-01-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

A New Year

2012-01-03T20:51:00.000-08:00

I want this to be a year in which I stay committed to my resolutions, but I know I will fail, so this year I am choosing a word to encompass what I want for our family. The word is HEALTHY! We are going to become Healthy. This does not just mean how we eat and take care of our bodies. This includes all of the following:

A healthy prayer life (my own, prayer with Aaron and as a family)
A healthy amount of time in the Word
Commitment to exercise (starting with 3 days a week and maybe learning to like running) Aaron already has this one licked! He always runs....always!
Commitment to healthy eating (less sweets for the little sweeties)
A healthy dose of organization (enough to keep me sane, but not too much to make me miss out on life moments with the little ones that make the messes)
An extra healthy amount of patience and time management (specific time set aside for each child is going to be big this year)

That's it. I'm committed to being Healthy. My family is committed too.

My Girl

2011-12-19T12:23:00.001-08:00

There are still moments I can't believe that you are mine

I love how you crinkle your nose

clap your hands

sign more, please, and all done

I love how you say, DaDa, MaMa, BuBu, Baby, PaPa, and More

I love how you always want me

I love every quiet moment I get with you

I like the loud moments too

I love that you pull out every cookbook, pot, pan, and utensil while I cook

I even love how you take out all of my toiletries from the vanity while I get ready

There are times I act exasperated by your constant movement and destructive ways

(Daddy calls you "The Ella Twister"--you can always tell where Ella has been)

I really just want to stop that silly "perfect mommy behavior" and love you for who you are right now

I'm not supposed to have a tidy house, I'm just supposed to love you with all I have

I will slow down this Christmas and cherish every little part of OUR LOVE

Picture taken by my dear friend Erin Keith

Thoughts from Owen

2011-12-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

I'm sure I've written posts before that talk about how smart my kids are and I know if you read this you may think that I'm being arrogant. I also know that most of you think your kiddos are nothing short of amazing, so I'm going to brag again!

My Owen is very bright. He thinks so deeply and figures out things I never dreamed he could. A while back we were playing a staring contest game. You know, "Made you blink!" He asked why we blink when something comes close to our eyes and I simply said, "It's human nature. Our eye-lids are protecting our eyes from potential harm." This seems to satisfy him and we moved on to other things. Several months later, while getting the boys ready for bed, Owen explained that he could never sleep without his fan on because a really quiet room makes him feel a little lonely and that makes him feel scared at night. I told him that I am the exact same way and that I have needed "white noise" since I was his age just to fill the space with sound. Owen responded with, "That's human nature Mom. We need things like noise to protect our minds from scary things." I had forgotten my little speech from a while back so I asked him how he knew about human nature. He quickly retold my story about eye blinking and explained how the two were similar.

Maybe that doesn't sound smart to you, but it does to me. As I thought about it, he made a connection between physical response and emotional need, something some grown ups never understand. I love that little boy and how his mind works. I love that he constantly wants to learn and goes at it with all he has. And of course, I love that he is mine!

Ella

2011-12-01T09:08:00.001-08:00

Gratitude Wrap Up

2011-11-27T12:43:00.001-08:00

A reflection on 4 days spent with family

Brothers

Sisters

Laughter

Cousins

Food

Mother and Father-in-law
(thank you for loving all of your "daughters" as if they were your own from the beginning)

Comfort

A wonderful place for my baby to nap

Our best friend cousins
Memories
And finally.....
"Breaking Dawn" (yep, I'm that girl!)

Gratitude for November 22nd

2011-11-23T07:40:00.001-08:00

Aaron getting a night out with friends

A thanksgiving feast with a bunch of kindergarten and 1st grade kids

Watching Eli play through the window of his classroom (I love when they don't know you are watching)

Teachers that guide my boys

My healthy, brilliant, and beautiful children (a mom can type that and not be blamed for bragging)

Gratitude

2011-11-21T12:42:00.001-08:00

Our Church

My 3 and 4 year-olds in Sunday School

Eli saying, "The teacher is my mommy."

Eli's Bible in his hands while I share the word of God

Making a tent so we know how some may have worshiped

Little voices singing while in our tent

Little prayers that are heard as true conversations to God

Late night parent night with friends every Sunday night

Unexpected "real" friendships

The kind of friendship where you wear no make-up, but you do wear pj's

Fast Car

2011-11-16T13:12:00.001-08:00

I have always loved this song. It brings back so many memories of being younger. I think it was one of the first songs that I actually appreciated lyrically and musically. Today it took on a new meaning. I was at McDonalds with a friend and our kids. We were chatting away while the boys played and the girls sat in our laps. Then I spotted one of my former Junior High students. I have taught many at risk students and this particular girl was one of the most at risk. She was dealt all the "rough cards" in life. She became pregnant shortly after I had Owen, making her a 15-year-old mommy. When I saw her, I am ashamed to say, that I initially avoided her. She was dressed quite inappropriately, and her language wasn't much better. She had three children, all hers. We were at similar stages in life in regards to child rearing, but her life had not gotten any easier. I could tell she was struggling. So, why didn't I go to her and talk? Why didn't I ask her about her children? I tried to catch her attention once or twice, but she didn't seem to recognize me. All of my former students remember me. It was Junior High, you remember those teachers, you remember all teachers! Maybe she didn't want to talk. Maybe she really didn't remember me, but I do wish I could go back and talk to her. I wish I could go back and not worry about how awkward the conversation might have been or how difficult it would have been to manage my kids and hers without a melt down. I wish I could go back and offer her friendship, from one mommy to another.

On the way home, I heard this song and each word traced back to this student.

"You got a fast car

I want a ticket to anywhere

Maybe we make a deal

Maybe together we can get somewhere

Anyplace is better

Starting from zero got nothing to lose

Maybe we'll make something

But me myself I got nothing to prove

You got a fast car

But is it fast enough so you can fly away

You gotta make a decision

You leave tonight or live and die thisway"

I prayed for you last night dearstudent. I prayed for your babies. I prayed for your precious mommyheart. I pray that the Lord will let our paths cross again and this timeI will step up and let you know that I love you.

Gratitude

2011-11-16T12:07:00.001-08:00

A husband who runs at 4:30 in the morning to make life easier for me

Kickboxing for me tonight

Lunch with friends

Honesty

Bubbles in the sink

A new book

A quiet house

Gratitude

2011-11-15T08:24:00.001-08:00

This long weekend gave me many reasons to be thankful.

Here are just a few

Sleeping in

My love home for 4 days (the reason why I didn't post this till today)

Our family of 5 together for 4 days (another reason why)

Christmas decorating

Major cleaning

Husband scrubbing along with me (I love that man)

Leaf tunnels

Daddy telling the boys stories on the tree swing

Daddy playing and playing and playing

Watching thy boys idolize their Daddy, savoring every word he says

This life, with this man, and these amazing miracles we call children

Gratitude

2011-11-12T13:36:00.001-08:00

(For November 11th)

An extra day off for Daddy

Christmas decorating
A surprise visit from Papa and Nana

The boys "decorating" their own tree

"Look what I found!"

"This is so pretty!"

"Ella will love this!"

"Put that one here!"

I loved their excitement

I love this time of year!

Ella's Birthday

2011-11-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Gratitude

2011-11-08T19:24:00.000-08:00

Alone time with Ella
Three clean bathrooms
Cozy, rainy, cuddly kind of day
A new book
"Table time" to talk with Aaron
Making goals
Listening to brothers become friends

Gratitude

2011-11-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for
Aaron always having Mondays off
The precious time we have with Eli and Ella on these days
Eli on Daddy's shoulders, laughing so hard tears stream down his cheeks
Grocery shopping
The ability to always fill our cart
Goodwill-always a fun adventure to treasure hunt
Aaron making special time for each boy

2011-11-05T06:03:00.000-07:00

Good news at the doctor
Precious twins
Tiny baby nursing
Tiny baby drinking from a bottle
The miracle of modern medicine
Premature twins looking at me
A precious friend that trusted in the Lord
A merciful God that kept them strong
BABY MIRACLES

Gratitude

2011-11-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for
The power going out at 3 am, leading to...
Two boys snuggled between Daddy and Mommy
Two sleepy boys...so the 4 of us really slept together
Hoods
Warm, fuzzy hoods
Lunch with Mom and Dad
Texts from my bro
Sleeping baby girl
Softly touching whispy hair of sleeping baby girl

Gratitude Journal

2011-11-02T19:47:00.000-07:00

My goal this month is to post what I am grateful for 5 days a week, so here is November 1st and 2nd

November 1st
Prayer time before the bus
Trampoline jumping
Baby giggles
Eli's heart breaking smile
Big brother snuggling little sister
Wind in my hair
Staring at the sky with Eli and Ella

November 2nd
An unexpected ache for my oldest-reminds me he's still my baby
Library Story Time-Ella clapping, crawling, chasing bubbles
Taking a walk with my middle and baby
Finding a forest
Pretending
Swinging
Crawling on crunchy leaves
Nap time
Oldest coming home-seeing his smile as he hops off the bus
When my love first walks in from work... Ella clapping and reaching
Where does my love go? To me FIRST.
His Kiss
The joy I see when baby gets her way and is in his arms...

Sweet Girls

2011-11-01T13:19:00.001-07:00

It's so much fun to have a niece and a baby girl.
Thank you Katie for loving this as much as me!

Joys of Fall

2011-11-01T13:15:00.001-07:00

If I could bottle this joy, I would.

She's One!

2011-10-29T13:48:00.000-07:00

Little Moments....another reason to celebrate

2011-10-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

I celebrate your joy.

Happy Birthday

Ella Claire-A One Year Reflection

2011-10-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate your life precious girl.

I celebrate how you are teaching your brothers to be gentle and strong, for they
protect you and learn from your gentle ways.

I celebrate the beautiful bond you have with Daddy. He loves you
as much as the boys, but it's a different way of loving and it changes him and this changes me.

I celebrate you and me. I celebrate my little answer to prayer. I prayed for you baby girl. I prayed for you before I knew I needed you. Before I knew what having a baby girl would do to my heart.

You have changed my world. You have changed OUR world. We love you Ella Claire Roemer
We celebrate your life today.

Ella Week 51

2011-10-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

Ella Week 50

2011-10-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

Perfect words for a day this beautiful

2011-10-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Every human being is

“formed to be a spectator of the created world –

and given eyes

that he might be led to its Author

by contemplating so beautiful a representation.”

~ John Calvin, Commentary on Romans 1:19

Ella Week 49

2011-10-04T13:13:00.000-07:00

Ella Week 48

2011-09-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

What is it about silence?

2011-09-23T14:21:00.001-07:00

Why is silence like medicine for my soul? When all of my babies are sleeping the lack of sound in my home is so comforting. I want to remember this peace. I know that all three are safe. I know all three are dreaming and growing at this very moment.

I usually don't have Owen home for a nap because he is at school, but he had an early dismissal today so he is sleeping away with the others. I was so excited to pick him up. Eli was even more excited. You should have seen them pretend when they got home. It was a full extravaganza, including Ella.

You know, silence is what allows me to reflect on moments like these. Allows me to lock them up tight in my heart and then rush to the computer or their baby books to record them.

Today I will use this silence to remember two little boys pretending to be bees, back packs on their backs, swords for stingers and little arms outstretched like wings. And one little baby bee in her pack-n-play protecting all of the pollen, each boy hopping in, one at a time to make a delivery of tickles and laughter.

Laughter, giggles, singing, a little yelling, more laughter......silence.....silence.....now I'm ready for the noise!

Ella Week 47

2011-09-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the rocket ship....

2011-09-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

This is just a post to remind me of the little things in my life right now. After returning from Florida this year, Eli started thanking God for "the airplane and the rocket ship" in his prayer. It goes something like this, "Dear God, thank you for Mama, Daddy, Owen, Eli, and Ella. Be with the babies Leena and Met. (my dear friend recently had her twins at 26 weeks, the names are Helena and Emmett)And thank you God for the airplane and rocket ship." He never leaves the last part out. We did fly to Florida, but we aren't sure what the rocket ship is about. We do vacation near Cape Canaveral and maybe he heard us talking about things regarding that or heard something on the news...who knows? Either way, it is very cute. He says it with such sincerity. He really is thankful for that rocket ship!

Ella Week 46

2011-09-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

This baby is on the go. I was lucky to get this shot. Notice she is eating puffs. I'm going to have to get really creative each week to make it to her first birthday.
We love you and all of your crawling and cruising ways, Ella Claire!

Ella Week 45

2011-09-08T08:30:00.001-07:00

I Don't Want to Forget

2011-09-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

I want to hold on to this moment. I want to savor her sweet smell. I want to hear her giggle.
It's our alone time. Just me and Ella. Just me and my girl. We went for a walk this morning once the boys got on the bus. She babbled the entire time. It was as if she was telling me her dreams. Of course, I joined in on the dialogue, acting as if we were having an adult conversation.

When we got home, a moment happened. I very small thing. Something another person would not even notice. I was holding Ella, walking around the house, when I realized she had her little arm slung over my shoulder. Her tiny hand was patting me. It felt so good. Her sweet, soft chubby little hand giving me a little bit of comfort. She is mimicking her Mommy and Daddy. She is loved and already knows how to show that love. Oh, I know she doesn't know what she's doing, but that makes it even better. She does this out of instinct. She loves me because it's all she knows.

She snuggles me as I put her down for her morning nap. Another moment I want to remember. She sits on my lap, facing me and buries her head in my chest. She snuggles in, slowly relaxing....and then I place her in her crib. She looks at me, smiles and rolls to her side. "Sweet dreams baby girl. Your mommy will never forget these moments."

Ella Week 44

2011-08-31T19:08:00.001-07:00

This ache in my heart....

2011-08-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, this two boys in school thing is making my heart hurt. Eli only goes to school for half days on Tuesday and Thursday, so yesterday was his turn to stay home. Every morning last year, Owen and I would play tag in our drive way as we waited for the bus. Of course, this tradition had to continue with Eli and Ella joining in. Ella is quite speedy in her stroller. The boys came up with some super hero name for our "girl dynamic duo." They will have to remind me what that is. You should see me push that baby! We were laughing and chasing, when I spotted the bus. I ushered Owen to the end of the drive and Eli quickly followed. We held hands and said our family prayer (a new tradition I love--you should here how compassionate my boys are and how often they think of each other) and then prepared for the bus to roll by and stop. Eli just assumed he would get on the bus too. When I had to hold him back, he looked a little sad, but was ok. Then Owen walked up the stairs and waved to Eli saying, "I'll see you soon buddy." And that's when Eli started to cry. Not just a few tears, he was sobbing. I asked him if he was crying because he wanted to ride the bus and he shook his head no. I asked if he was crying because Owen was leaving? He shook his head yes and said, "I miss my Owen." Guess who started crying at that point? I am so glad they are best friends. I'm so glad that Owen protects his baby brother. I am so glad Eli looks up to his big brother. I remember my wonderful friend C, telling me how beautiful the bond between siblings would be. I just had no idea it would be such a blessing. So....I do have an ache in my heart for my boys. I miss hearing them giggle, pretend, wrestle, fight, laugh, and so much more. But, I do know they have each other in that big world of school. I know they will have each other for as long as they live. Now, I can live with a little ache.

Ella Week 43

2011-08-23T12:39:00.001-07:00

Eli's Big Day

2011-08-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

Eli had his Pre-K Jump Start Day last week and boy was he excited. He has been wanting to go to school since Owen started at WLB last year. He talks about being a big boy in Mrs. Maxwell's class with his buddy Jayce (you can see the male bonding above). Those two boys are going to break some little hearts. Oh, he also LOVES the idea of riding the bus. I wasn't going to let him ride, but it's obvious that he's ready and Owen will be on there to watch out for him.

I love watching Eli's pure joy and excitement in taking on this new role of student. I love his teacher and the school. It's hard to let go, but it's so wonderful to watch him grow in confidence.

I love you Eli Benjamin. Here's to a year of learning and growing.

Ella Week 42

2011-08-19T14:56:00.001-07:00

He says...."My girls."

2011-08-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

Lately, Aaron has been thanking God for "his girls" during our prayer time with the boys. He'll say something like, "Thank Lord for my strong boys and my sweet girls." Sometimes he'll say the boys are brave, sometimes he'll say they are sweet. Sometimes his girls are precious and sometimes WE are strong too. I love that my husband allows us all to be strong and gentle!

When Aaron started saying this, Owen could not understand why he said girls (plural) because he only had one baby girl. He explained, "Mommy is my girl too."

I love this for two reasons. One, there are two girls in the house and two, I'm still "his girl!"

Ella Week 41

2011-08-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

Ella Week 40

2011-08-05T14:54:00.001-07:00

Brothers

2011-08-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

This Mama can't wait to see the men you will become....

Ella Week 39

2011-08-03T20:42:00.001-07:00

Florida Vacation Week Two
Just had to get a shot of this sweet baby girl in her ruffly swimming suit and sun hat.
More pics to come....

Ella Week 38

2011-08-03T20:40:00.001-07:00

Florida Vacation-Week One
Ella's first trip to New Smyrna Beach

Ella Week 37

2011-07-12T21:04:00.001-07:00

I need a little color in my life!

2011-07-06T20:44:00.000-07:00

I want to take on about 20 different projects around our house. I want to add COLOR. I feel like I'm living in the land of gray and brown (or shades in between). I started a small painting project today and felt like I was on a roll, so I starting painting the downstairs bathroom vanity. Just one coat of French Gray (a fresh bluish gray) made all the difference in that space. I have to put on a second coat for it to look nice, but I couldn't believe how good it would feel to freshen up a room like that with a touch of color. So, I'm going to continue with this "roll" and keep painting and/or accessorizing with COLOR. It's hard to find time, but I'm going to do it for my soul. Even if it's not perfect, even if it happens slowly, it still feels good. Here's to decisions on a whim and to color.

Independence Day

2011-07-04T21:29:00.000-07:00

I have freedom to Love.
I have freedom to Live.
I have freedom to Protect.
I have freedom
Because someone laid down his/His life.
Thank you to those who serve.
Thank you to THE ONE who saved.

Ella Week 36

2011-07-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ella Week 35

2011-06-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

Proof that she does cry!

Ella Week 34

2011-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

Strong and Gentle

2011-06-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

Perfect images of what makes this man of mine such a perfect father. He is, and always has been, STRONG and gentle. I love you Aaron Rees. Happy Fathers Day 2011.

Ella Week 33

2011-06-16T19:17:00.001-07:00

Ella Week 32

2011-06-08T19:37:00.001-07:00

Those Baby Blues

2011-05-31T14:28:00.001-07:00

I see you baby girl. I see that you want to do so many "big" things. You want to be near your ever-moving brothers. You want to crawl. You want to sit. You want to clap. All in due time sweet one. All in due time.

Ella Week 31

2011-05-31T14:17:00.001-07:00

Perfectly Imperfect

2011-05-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

"....those flashes of times, that can tug you wide awake and you can really feel how glorious this place feels under your feet, how His love swoops in saturated hues of surprise, how His grace pulls you along and won’t let you go, His grace bobbing there at the end of a string….

You tethered right now to the heart of God." (A Holy Experience....again she amazes me with her words)

In the act of flying a kite with the kids, I realized I am right where I should be...being perfectly imperfect with my man, my boys and my girl!

Comparing

2011-05-26T19:30:00.000-07:00

I am not a huge Oprah fan. I like her show, but don't have to see it. I don't agree with many of her "philosophies," but I do think she works to make the world a better place. I was watching her last episode today on our DVR and started really thinking. She said her biggest challenge to all of her viewers is to find exactly where you should be at this exact moment. She said I should feel compelled to be exactly where I should be, being filled with energy and contentment because I am fulfilling the role I am called to be in. These are the words I am using, ones that translate her thoughts into my head. I know I am where I should be as a mother, wife, and teacher, but there is this small part of me that feels slightly unfulfilled. I know there is a creative outlet out there for me. At times I think it is photography, but I compare my work to others and am let down at my lack of talent. At times I think it is art, but I KNOW I can't draw, paint or sculpt. At times I think it is words, but then I read one phrase from a blog that trumps every paragraph I have ever tried to write. I can sing, but not amazingly well. I can dance, but I doubt everyone would agree.

So, here I am at the age of 31, trying to figure out how to be exactly where I should be. Contentment should be easy for me to come by because my life is quite amazing, but I ALWAYS COMPARE. This has been my vice since childhood. I constantly pray for guidance in this area because I think it robs me of joy. I will keep searching. NO, I will start looking right in front of me, STOP comparing and figure out what I can do with these hands and this mind.

Ella Week 30

2011-05-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Swinging

2011-05-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

My wonderful husband made me a tree swing for Mother's Day. Our whole family can sit on it, swinging in the breeze. When Ella is napping, me and the boys head for the tree swing. They both place their heads on my lap and we sway back and forth, they stare up at the leaves. We talk about all the things God has given us...this house, our yard, the pretty peonies and irises popping open, the breeze, and this wonderful swing. "This feels good Mommy," Eli says. Owen whispers, "Go higher!" I push us back so we really sway on these strong limbs. You see, it's the perfect gift, for I get to pause life for about 10 minutes every day, and sometimes more. The boys, and even the baby girl are content just swinging, swaying and feeling the breeze.

Ella Week 29

2011-05-17T12:09:00.001-07:00

Riding My Bike

2011-05-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

The Roemer Family 5 has officially started bike riding. Eli and Ella in the Chariot, pulled by Daddy, Owen on his bike, and Mommy on hers. I love these moments. I love the wind in my hair, looking back at my brood. Watching Ella squeal with delight as the breeze tickles her toes. Watching Eli smile, telling Daddy to go faster. Admiring Owen as he grows into a little man, brave and ready to take on the "big hills." Thanking God for that man I call husband, that is giggling right along with his babies. Protecting them, guiding them and showing them how strong our family is when we are all together.

Ella Week 28

2011-05-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Outside!

2011-05-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say, "WE WERE OUTSIDE ALL DAY!"

Kite flying, swinging, sliding, climbing, running, skipping, rolling....side walk chalk, backs on the grass looking at clouds, Ella giggling under her "umbrella tent" made by the boys, Peter Pan pretending, picnic, Easter candy nibbling, running off the Easter candy, in for a nap....all 3 crashing quickly!

Ella Week 27

2011-05-03T13:00:00.001-07:00

It Takes Three Baby!

2011-04-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

I was with a large group of my girlfriends last night. We talked, laughed, shared stories, told baby and birthing stories, laughed some more, ate, hugged, and ate some more. I realized as I looked around the table that each one of these women had a "mother story" to tell. I wished that we had unlimited time to share each story, to offer encouragement, to lift each other up. We really only had time to share a snip it of our lives in the midst of several conversations. When asked how I was dealing with three, I said, "It's hard. Much harder than two." I didn't mean I don' t love it. I simply wanted to express that being a mom to 3 children, 5 and under is a lot of work. When I left that night and started reflecting on our conversations, I wanted to go back and tell my friends, especially those I don't see, but once a year, that I love my life with three. I love every minute of it. The good, the bad, the perfect...and yes, I do have many perfect moments in this life. So, if you are reading this girls...by sweet, beautiful friends. I love the challenge of this amazing life. I love that I have to break up fights between my boys. I love that Owen can make Ella laugh no matter what is going on. I love that Eli looks up to Owen as if he is his role model. I love how Owen made his bed this morning without being asked. I love that Eli wanted to snuggle in bed with me when he woke up...and Owen wanted to too once he woke up. I love "chasing" Owen to the bus (our fun little game every school morning). I love kissing Ella's soft, chubby cheeks. I love forts, cookie making, painting, dirt, hugs, kisses, messes, snuggles, nap times, prayers, stories, books, toys, chores, clothes, pretending......
I LOVE MY LIFE and not just when they are napping!!!!

Ella Week 26

2011-04-26T13:27:00.001-07:00

HOPPY EASTER!!

A Hug, Angels and Loves

2011-04-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

Today, a dear friend called and asked if we (me and the kids) wanted some company on this rainy, cold day. I said, "Yes, please!" I was thinking Yes, please because I wanted this day to go a little faster. The boys wanted to be outside, I was running out of fun things to do, I was struggling this week with helping my sweet baby girl learn how to eat from a spoon, and I needed out of the house. Her coming over with Eli's best friend sounded wonderful.

Well, my boys decided to put on a bad behavior show. I think I gave about 2 time outs each, corrected behaviors more times than I could count, consoled a fussy baby, tried to feed that fussy baby, tried to console fighting boys while holding sweet fussy baby, and I'm sure she witnessed much more than I even realized. I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment as I arose from the "time out" spot. I didn't want her to think my boys were bad. I don't want anyone to view my children as naughty. I wanted her to see me at my finest. I struggle with this often...wanting others to think I have it all together. Wanting others to "want" my life. Well, Emmary...I don't think she wanted your life today (that kept resonating in my head).

As she left, I reached to her for a hug and apologized for the crazy morning. In that moment, that sweet pregnant momma hug moment, I realized she was not judging me, she was not comparing me, she probably didn't even mind being in my crazy house. We are walking this road of motherhood together. Her sweet hug told me all of this. That, and her words of, "You don't need to apologize..."

I was watching Owen sleep once he was down for his nap and I had this aching desire to call my friend and have her watch him too. My big boy, my sometimes crazy 5 year old, looked so much like the baby I brought home 5 years ago. He is still so innocent, so perfectly my own. He told me this as he was drifting off to sleep: "Mommies are supposed to call their first babies their "angels" and the other ones their "loves."

Oh, I like that my sweet angel...

Ella Week 25

2011-04-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

This is the quilt my grandma made for me when I was born!

Pure and Rich

2011-04-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

I have been her only source of nourishment. There is a bond that we have, that all three of us have had. They each stared at me, nuzzling in for peace. This is the time to stop each day. Four or five times that force me to sit, to rest, to relish the miracle of life I hold and possess. My Savior thought of this. He created this free offering of food. My milk is pure, just as He is. My milk is rich, just as He is. My milk is the source of growth and change, just as He changes us all. I think His hand is in all things around me. I think he made this act so pure and rich so that I would think of Him each and every time I do it.

She may be moving on to a spoon, but I still have her in my arms four to five times a day, providing her life....from my life.

Ella Week 24

2011-04-12T13:43:00.001-07:00

Yellow Light

2011-04-05T12:48:00.001-07:00

Last week, Owen came home with his first "yellow light" from school. This is a behavior system his teacher uses in the classroom. The goal is to stay on green and Owen has stayed on green the entire year, except for last Wednesday. His chart said, "too rough during recess" and "tapping on the window of another classroom while sitting out during recess--distracting." I could tell something was wrong the minute he got off of the bus. He was quick to tell me what had happened. He was very honest. We talked about the situation and how he needs to always be a good boy, even if it was funny when his friend Ben "shook his booty" at the classroom. Owen said that was much worse than tapping on the window. I tried very hard not to smile or laugh. I think I would have laughed if I had a friend brave enough to "shake their booty" at a "big kid" classroom.

I use that story to preface what we have been dealing with at the Roemer house lately: pushing the limits, testing the boundaries, deliberately disobeying, etc. Owen has really been challenging me lately. Yes, my sweet little boy is causing me to get down on my knees and pray. I know I'm not "doing" this parenting thing right. I give too many chances, I give in, I cave. I want Owen to know that he must always respect and honor his parents and those in authority. I'm resting in the promise that God will guide us through this phase.

He does it again...my Savior guides me to truth in just one singular moment. I click over to my devotional spot: aholyexperience.com and I find a solution.

The title: How to Make and Take a Peace Retreat
A few words that pricked these tired eyes:

This house rocks with the noise and the thunder, of the many and the living close.

I light a candle. We call it a Peace Retreat.

When tears rain and voices crash, domestic sky splitting with sibling storm, this Mama who sometimes wearies Mama needs arms to wrap up the gusting child or the wind-lashed child to tuck them — and me — into a haven out of the whirlwind, a place with moments to pause and quiet.

“Hon, you’ve some big feelings…. Can we wrap you up in some peace?”

He nods through the wail. I take him by the hand, whisper as he sits, “Why don’t you read Scripture for a few minutes, pray, sing a bit, find some rest in Jesus….”

A Mama can’t fix a squall. But she can embrace and rock and lead to the Man Who can.

I can't fix it all, but I can lead my little man to THE MAN!

I will find a way to wrap him up in peace. I will find a way into his questioning and testing heart. This is the time in which I can mold and shape him. His brother is being shaped as well. Little baby girl, even though she does not speak words we understand, is watching my love, my consistency, and my grace.

Here I go...moving out of the Yellow Light.

Ella Week 23--take 2

2011-04-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this picture too. She is so fascinated by her toes right now!

Ella Week 23

2011-04-05T12:44:00.001-07:00

Ella Week 22

2011-03-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

When we Fail

2011-03-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

So...I have already failed in my commitment to Lent. There were a few honest slip ups. One time I grabbed half a cookie that Eli had dropped and popped it in my mouth without even thinking. Another time I licked icing off of the knife I was using to frost cupcakes for the boys. I still felt ok about this because I was not doing it consciously. But, this has led to conscious decisions to eat sweets and then to giving up almost completely. I tell myself that this process doesn't really help me focus on Christ's sacrifice, I don't have to prove anything....and I sob. Why can't I do this one small thing for my Lord? Why can't I stick to something so simple? I turn to an answer and the perfect words jump from the screen:

I can’t seem to follow through in giving up for Lent.

Which makes me want to just give up Lent.

Which makes me question Who I am following.

Which may precisely be the point of Lent.

“Don’t think of lent as about working your way to salvation. Think of it as working out your salvation.”

(words from aholyexperience.com)-I wish I could call Ann Voscamp up right now and tell her she typed those words just for me...

I chose to go back to my commitment. I chose to love Him more. I chose to remember. I chose to work this strange miracle of salvation out.

Baby Skin

2011-03-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

How did God create such an amazing universe? How did he perfectly knit my three babies? And, how in the world did he give my Ella the softest, sweetest baby skin on the face of this vast planet? I know, I know...each mom thinks that their baby is the best, the sweetest and most likely the softest, but this Momma has to shout it from her blog!

I could stare at her for hours. I could kiss her cheeks for even longer. Her skin is flawless, perfectly pink, and oh so petal soft. I treasure the fact that all of my children still have baby soft skin, Ella just has the softest right now. Even though it is beyond gorgeous outside right now, I'm mesmerized by what is inside; my sleeping babies and all of their perfect little features.

Ella Week 21

2011-03-21T13:05:00.001-07:00

A Question

2011-03-15T13:18:00.001-07:00

"When did I start seeing children as commonplace and stop seeing motherhood as a holy place?"

This question comes from http://www.aholyexperience.com

I had to really stop and think about this. Motherhood as a holy place? Really? In the midst of clutter, snotty noses, overturned couches and cushions from fort making, sticky fingers, potty breaks, dirty diapers, wet diapers, more dirty diapers, cries for help....I stop. Yes, this is a holy place. For in the clutter there is discovery. The fort is our fortress of fun. Sticky fingers prove nourishment. All things dealing with the word "potty" mean that my children are healthy. Their bodies work as they are made to. Cries for help mean that I am their protector. It is a holy place. I will see these daily "chores" as gifts. Never will my children be commonplace. I will make this a holy place, for all of us to dwell, always inviting our Savior in.

Ella Week 20

2011-03-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

Lent and Tag

2011-03-10T13:10:00.000-08:00

What a post title! That is what I am reflecting on today.
Aaron and I are truly trying to make Lent a part of our lives this year. We debated on how much the boys could and should understand. We decided to simply talk to them about how much Christ loves us. I don't think little Eli's heart could bear the thought of "his Jesus" suffering on the cross just yet. So, we will wait and allow them the peace of that tiny baby they see in their minds and hearts. We reflected on what to give up. Something that would make us truly pause and reflect on His sacrifice. Something that would make us uncomfortable. Here it is....SWEETS. This includes diet sweets too. We both crave sweet things, literally crave them. After every meal, we hear the words, "What's for dessert?" because we always have it, even if it's something little. In just two days I have resisted those wonderful sweet things and each time I did, I said a prayer of thanks to my sacrificial Savior. I begged him for strength. Isn't it strange how something so silly as sweets can really be a challenge. It may seem trivial to some, but it is preparing my heart for this season, this season Sacrifice.

The kids and I return from one of those very lucky lunch dates with PaPa...of course there were sweets surrounding me, but I said a prayer and I grew as I watched little boy fingers get chocolaty and gooey. The boys beg to play outside. I ponder this. It's close to nap time, Ella is still in the van. I shout, "YES! Let's play tag!" We run, we laugh, we fall over, our fingers become numb from the cold, but we keep running. I feel the wind in my hair. How long has it been? When did I last do this? I watch the boys as I check on Ella. They exude Joy. It pours out of them. Cheeks are getting rosy, but they keep running, keep laughing, keep taking in this moment.

I am surrounded by Sacrifice and Joy. I stand in the cold, peeking in on my baby girl and watching my boys run. I look to the sky, it is overcast today. Cloudy and gray.
"Thank you Lord for going through the darkness...thank you for giving me this light."

Naptime...

2011-03-08T14:33:00.000-08:00

What would I do without this time? This is my devotional time, time to sit in silence, to reflect on my day. While I put each child down, I pray long, silent prayers for them. I pray as they drift off to sleep. I pray for their hearts, their future wives and husband. I pray for their purity. I pray for their faith, their strength, their health, their wisdom and their salvation. I can raise them to love the Lord. I can show them what a love- filled marriage looks and sounds like. I can take them to church, read the Holy Word to them, and pray with them, but I cannot force my faith in God on them when they are older. So, I will model now. I will guide now. I will pray without ceasing, for there will come a day when they are on their own and they will make their own choices. I want those choices to be bathed in their mother's prayer, prayer that often ends on my knees and with tears. I have been blessed with healthy, whole, intelligent and lovely babies. I don't have to pray by a hospital bedside, begging for life, begging for healing. I pray prayers of thanksgiving, thanking God for this simple and beautiful life. We have had our need for begging prayer. There have been broken bones, stitches, hurt feelings, and frustration, but we have been blessed with peace in our family. There may be a day when darkness comes and I will pray then as well. I will never stop praying for these little lives that are a part of me, part of this miracle, life.

Ella Week 19

2011-03-08T09:54:00.001-08:00

Ella Week 18

2011-03-08T09:53:00.001-08:00

Spring Resolutions

2011-03-01T12:13:00.000-08:00

No, not a New Year resolution, but spring. The sun is calling me outside, but the children nap. I would love to throw on my running shoes and run....run too fast like I did on Saturday. It felt so good to get out and run, I went way to fast, ran out of steam and ended up sore, but it was ALL worth it. I will never claim to love running. I can't even say I like it. I thought my husband's obsession with it, would motivate me. I dream of days when something just switches in my mind and body and I race like a horse, not losing my breath or stamina. That has never happened. I ran a half marathon when I was 14 weeks pregnant. HUGE accomplishment. I took it SLOW, very slow and I enjoyed every minute of it. So...my spring resolution is stop beating myself up for my dis-like of running, but still get out there (or down there on the treadmill) and do it. I'll beg my hubbie to give me outside running time, but not until he has ran his marathon on April 30th. He has improved so much this year through a new training program and I can't wait to see him reach his goal.

Here's to resolutions, even if we aren't that good at them!

Ella Week 17

2011-03-01T07:35:00.001-08:00

This is my favorite so far!!! In the words of Eli and Papa: "I love you little Sugar Plum."

Ella Week 16

2011-03-01T07:34:00.001-08:00

My View Today

2011-02-24T21:11:00.000-08:00

I can't even begin to count the number of times I kiss these cheeks, tuck those locks behind an ear, breath in that sweet baby scent and stare at the miracle of life each and every day.

Shame and Mercy

2011-02-24T11:53:00.001-08:00

Are you ever ashamed? Have you ever said an unkind word? Embellished a story? Thought to highly or to low of yourself? I have done all of these things. I most likely do one or more each and every day. Many times I discipline when my patience is gone. I try not to do this, but it often happens. I hope all moms can admit they are not perfect in this area. When this does happen I want to say, "Hold on boys. Hold on. I did not mean to hurt you. I acted in impatience. Wait for me. Wait."

Ella's arrival has brought about many challenges in regards to attention for each child, following through and general time management. I often have to make them leave her nursery when I am putting her down for a nap. I don't have the option, in that moment to discipline correctly. The boys have seen me at my best and at my worst. The amazing part is that they never harbor a grudge when I lose my patience. I simply ask for hugs. I say I'm sorry. They pile on top of me. Kisses and Hugs. They never once question my love. While my heart ached, while I feel guilt, they move on in joy.

Isn't that like our Savior? He has already forgotten what causes me shame. The moment I asked for his forgiveness, he gave me mercy. He does it time and time again. His mercy never fails. It never will.

I feel shame...I feel His mercy...I am alive with JOY!

A Holy Experience

2011-02-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

http://www.aholyexperience.com/ A blog that is changing my life

I have been challenged to simplify, to be content, to live purely, to wait, to fully embrace this life. Want to take that journey?

I am learning to let go of time, rather than cling to it like a leach. I cling to time because I don't want to lose it. Now I see the joy in each new step this family of mine takes. The joy we will bring our Savior.

I am going to challenge myself to find joy in each day...in a thousand ways. I want to articulate my joy, my sorrow, my frustration, my longing to be with my Savior, my longing to stay with my lovely babies and love of my life. I will challenge myself to do this weekly on this blog, trying to get to the point where I post something daily.

So, here is today. I day like many others. My oldest is at school, my baby girl is sick and my precious middle child begs, even aches for my attention. So, I stop. I lay my sweet Ella down. Yes, I let her cry. I do this so I can cling to this moment with my Eli. I let him get me snotty (he is getting over the cold he just gave his sister). He giggles in my arms and I haven't even tickled him yet. He leans in for a kiss, another kiss and still another. He wiggles free and talks to Ella....the best medicine for her. She smiles, relaxes. I see that she knows who this is. Her brother. Her protector. Her friend. They may not be all of these things yet, but she knows he is there to comfort and love her. At four months old, she loves. She not only loves her source of nourishment and comfort. She loves those who love her. She goes to sleep easily. I place her in her crib, kiss her sweet face and walk away quietly. "I love you....forever."

We make banana bread. We are messy. We squish the bananas in our fingers. We have flour in our hair. It's just mommy and Eli.

Now it's nap time. I tell a "Black Night" story. One of adventure and rescue. He uses his flashlight to play his role. "Time to close our eyes sweet boy."
"A special prayer mommy?" "Yes, always a special prayer just for you."
I pray, rub his back and in an instant he is breathing heavy, falling into perfect rest. He has always been a good boy. Easy to rest, easy to sleep, easy to love. I linger for a while....like I often do. I doze and dream of this little boy. I dream of how he will honor our Savior. Will he lead by example? Will he proclaim His word boldly? Will he be subtle, yet strong? I pray and I am at peace.

This is joy. This is a holy experience.

The Birthday Boys

2011-02-19T19:48:00.001-08:00

February 13th, 2006
February 12th, 2008
Owen Rees and Eli Benjamin
Perfect Days, Perfect Boys
Two little miracles for this Mommy's heart!

Ella Week 15

2011-02-16T06:38:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines from our littlest Valentine!

Ella Week 14

2011-02-10T14:16:00.001-08:00