tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33333664173318315892023-11-16T03:09:33.704-08:00Sweet Little ThingShannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.comBlogger622125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-52809413143211980372013-06-12T21:03:00.002-07:002013-06-12T21:03:16.892-07:00A New BlogOk, I told you I was done over here and I am. I promise. But I just wanted you to know that I have a brand new blog over at <a href="http://www.ordinarysuperheros.com/">Ordinary Superheros</a> and I wanted you to be able to get to it!!! Yay! I'm so excited! It's going to be fun! See you over there!Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-55773687036971091082013-03-13T20:43:00.002-07:002013-03-13T20:43:57.660-07:00Sweet Little Thing {The Final Curtain} This is it. {sniffle, sniffle}<br />
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Sweet Little Thing says goodbye. I have been dreading this post. Now before you start wailing and gnashing your teeth about this, please, please, just calm down. While this is going to be the last post on Sweet Little Thing, I do assure you that I will still be blogging. For sure.<br />
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It will probably still be as sporadic as I have been this last year, but I assure you, the blogging will not die. I love blogging and sharing and photographing. It's an outlet. It, in a teensy tiny way, says what my heart is trying to say. About my children. My life. My role as a wife, a mom, a friend of Jesus, a friend of many, and sometimes I even pretend like I have an alter-ego as a gangster. </div>
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My rationale for stopping this here little blog is really because I am moving on to bigger and better things....in and and away from blogland. What does that really mean? A. I'm sick of blogger and it has recently been causing me headaches. B. I believe a new platform to be much better C. I'm working on a new blog and going a slightly different direction on the blog. Of course you will still see these little lovelies now and then, and those good ole' "mom wiping butts in Walmart" stories won't be far behind. But there is even more on the horizon. And I'm excited!!! </div>
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So, hang tight. There is a new blog to the rescue. It hopefully will be cooler, cuter, offer you more as a reader, i.e., not put you sleep, and it might even be a little more grammatically correct. Liz, if you read this blog....I know you hate me. I'm sorry!!!! I just don't have time for, like, English/writing/proper grammar and sometimes even spelling stuff., :( But you know I totally love you girl!!!! </div>
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Ok, enough about all this. I figured the last blog post should have something to do with the entire reason I started this blog. These boys. These little mini-superheroes, in the making. </div>
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I can barely believe that this is my life. These three, their daddy and that crazy dog. Sometimes it's just too good to be true. Sometimes, I think I'm going to need to pinch myself. But wait just a minute, I don't have to because Beckett runs up behind me and pinches my leg. And BAM!, I'm snapped out of the euphoric state. And then Chase trips, hits his head on the wooden corner of something, really anything (he's super accident prone) and starts wailing.....and Leighton is curled up under a blanket playing Angry Birds. See, so it's really not all rosy and amazing Graceful parenting over in this hizzy. It's just real. And I love it. Even when I want cover my ears and hide in the dryer downstairs. It's TOTALLY, totally worth it.<br />
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So, I wanted to finish this off by doing a life update for each of my sweet baby superheroes.<br />
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Let's start with the biggest of the small ones.<br />
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This boy. This once my first baby and now my big, mature, mini-version of my sweet husband. Sweet for sure could be the very BEST way to describe him. You could also say that he is quiet, very well thought out, he talks like he's 30 and he is totally in love with Angry Birds right now. He loves Jesus and know that when he is scared at his night he can just flick those scared thoughts out of his head and call on the God of angel armies. He knows that God goes before him and stands behind him. He can tell you that Jesus once said, "If they only knew.....they would ask me for Living water." (John 4:10).<br />
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He is just so smart. He is ready for Kindergarten, like last fall. We waited on Kindergarten since he had a summer birthday. We figured one more year of Preschool would be the right thing. We are certain that it was right for him in his self-esteem and social readiness. However, this boy is ready to get to the books. He loves reading but, I confess, I don't push that on him as much as I should. His favorite shows are the Turtles and Wildkrats. He is just waiting and waiting to be able to get outside and pull out his little four wheeler. He is starting to talk about it every day. He's a boy that loves being outside (do any of them not?) and I am excited to see where his imagination goes this spring and summer. He's already talking about getting a new bug gun for the summer. I imagine many a bug will be sucked up in that little bug gun vacuum contraption. Boys, boys, boys.<br />
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He is very good at drawing, coloring and writing words and his name. Today he wrote on the maker board "mom is spechul". Awwwwwwww. I'm trying to convince him to start doing book reports for me, but he has been evading me on that so far. His teachers have pulled me aside to inform me that he is VERY, VERY smart and quiet. Today, we had his parent teachers conferences and he is doing awesome. Overall, he is growing nicely in all areas. I'm not 100% sure on his growth stats as we haven't been to the doctor once during this school year. Praise the Lord for a healthy home and healthy boys! One thing I can tell you is he will be a bit on the short side. No shock on that one. The size of his heart makes up for it. :)<br />
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Next is Chase.<br />
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It's hard to make a paragraph that would encapsulate all that this little guy is. His look says it all here. He is a boy of many, many silly and funny faces. He is such a charmer it's not even funny. Except it is. Chase entered preschool this year, following right behind his big brother. He turned 3 in July and he is on his way to a fast four. Meaning, he too, is growing too fast for his mom. He loves to change his clothes about 2-19 times per day. He fashions himself lots of layers, ties, vests and work shirts (like his dads). He loves playing superhero and running around rescuing April from TMNT. He, too, loves going outside and playing and getting into all sorts of mischief.<br />
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Chase brings a smile to faces with a flawless ease. Something just oozes out of him that makes the crankiest person smile. I don't know what it is. He, too, loves the Lord and knows where he comes from. He loves singing and talking about God and Jesus.<br />
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Physically he is developing well. Again, no need for a doctor visit all year but he looks good to me. He does seem awfully clumsy though and runs into things from time to time so we are going to have his eyes tested. Would he not be the cutest thing in the world with glasses?!!!! He is short, although he seems to be growing like a weed. Not exactly sure how, being that he isn 't the most diverse eater I have ever met. :)<br />
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Beckett.<br />
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Oh my baby!<br />
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How did my baby turn into this? He is almost TWO!!! This is wrong! I swear yesterday I was nearly birthing him in our car!!! Regardless of how all this fast growing nonsense happened, he certainly is equally as cute as his bigger brothers. He is still a bit of a snuggler. I did say a "bit" of a snuggler. Not a ton, but really, when he wants to snuggle he is all in it.<br />
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I think the biggest shocker about this guy is how well he is talking. He is 22 months and we can't believe the long sentences that come from his mouth. Everyone that meets him or comes to visit us ends up making a comment about his vocabulary and phrasing. One of our favorites phrases happened when Derrick's parents were visiting. They were sleeping on the spare bed in his room and he stood up in the middle of the night in his crib and said in a very matter of fact (maybe slightly bossy?) tone...."Grandma, take me to my mommy." And she did.<br />
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He sure knows what he wants these days. Other key phrases would be:<br />
"no, i do it myself" (pretty much about anything)<br />
"mommy....wahhhh....mommy, tase hit me. he go time out." (obviously, chase hitting him)<br />
"no, no maverick, you go time out" (when maverick tries to take his food)<br />
"mommy, where daddy go?" (when dad's at work)<br />
this list is really endless. oh who could forget<br />
"mommy, me want watch mickey mouse" (clearly, i don't need to interpret these)<br />
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He loves mickey and his baby. He takes very good care of her, changing her diaper and even disciplining her. He puts the baby in time out and regularly claims that the baby bites him. For which she goes to time out, per Beckett. He also brought her with us to Famous Daves and fed her his chicken tenders. Sweet guy. He sure gets into a lot A LOT of mischief these days. He's really into pushing the stools up to the counter and crawling up to do all sorts of shenanigans. Fun times. Fun times. I have also been impressed with his wrestling skills these days. He is sure holding his own. They all do pretty well together. The bigger boys know how to play gently with him and he loves rolling around and giggling. Of course, there are those other moments, too. Sometimes the fights aren't as adorable.<br />
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Well, this is it. I feel like it's time to cue the music now. Get out the kleenexes! The last few comments on my Sweet Little Thing blog have arrived. I have to admit, it's sad. To let her go. This little blog and I have been through some late nights together. We have laughed, we have cried, we have just stared blank at one another sometimes.......sometimes that's enough for a mom. For just a few moments.<br />
(Am I really talking to my blog? Perhaps this really is the cue to shut this thing down!)<br />
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Just kidding! I love everything this blog represents and for that reason, I CANNOT wait to get my coffee table blog books. The printed memory of the first five years of our lives as parents. I'll tell and show you more about that on the NEW blog later. For now, I just know, I have captured something priceless here in the confines of this little domain.<br />
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The late nights, the diapers, the questions, the best, the worst, the boogers, the anniversary wishes, the breast milk stories, the Blazin Beckett mini-series, the Cupcake Caper, the trips, the songs, the Weekly Womb series, the intertwining of faith, the project 52, the healing of disease, the growing, the videos of counting and singing and bible verses and birthday wishes, the career changes, and the best career ever, the love of photography born, and babies and toddlers and preschoolers.<br />
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Well, gang, crew, wonderful, amazing blog reading friends and family and some of you I don't even know yet, blog readers. It has been an honor to share my heart in this way. Thank you for your support.<br />
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All my love,<br />
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Shannon Heick<br />
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Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-30457465161998505372013-02-15T20:00:00.002-08:002013-02-15T20:00:53.767-08:00Christmas 2013I told you I would get this blog wrapped up and I'm going to do what I said. Sure, maybe I'm two months late....but.......you know the scoop here. If I do ever get a second to jump on the computer, usually some little baby bug in the house senses it like That and I got a call from my MIL who wanted to file a complaint to me that there is one very sad grandma and grandpa who really miss seeing their little guys on this blog regularly. Hee hee.<br />
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But, really, I do intend to wrap this year up and then finally, yes, FINALLY order some mack-daddy blog books.<br />
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So, onto Christmas and all the fun that was had.<br />
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This year was a marathon driving event. We took off the Friday before Christmas at 10pm. Yes, I did say 10 pm. Yes, we are crazy. And yes, we prefer a quiet car. And yes, I do procrastinate and was still out running around finishing up some last minute gifts. There.<br />
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Thank the good Lord the weather was fine and the roads were great and it was just a van full of sleeping baby superheroes and two parents who just like to hear each other talk once in while.<br />
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Before we left, and one of the reasons I was so behind on the last minute things before we left town, was that our biggest superhero was striken with "the fever". And this was my poor sweet boys disposition for 2 days straight. He is so sweet, hardly ever complaining, just laying suppine and trying to get better. Ok, so he did have this really annoying scream cry every time he coughed but I didn't say that. I'm his mother and I would never say such a thing. Except I do like to keep this a bit real. He's so dang sweet though, you just can't help but love him!<br />
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So, we arrived and I love window lights.<br />
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We also found that the folks from the manger scene had gotten a little rowdy the previous night.<br />
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Beckett took his job of taking care of Baby Beans very seriously.<br />
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Gift opening was a hoot as always.<br />
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Maverick even partook.<br />
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And this is a bit of departure but this photo was one of my favorites from the year of Instagram.<br />
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Then it was off to round two of celebrating the wonderful Christmas season with my family. <br />
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After a little bit of good ole fashion tundra-style driving........eeeeppp Derrick!<br />
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We made it safe and sound to my home sweet home.<br />
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There is just something about the whole family being back together under one roof. Just can't explain it.<br />
It's a good feeling.<br />
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The whole family together, surrounded by God's gift of a beautiful countryside.<br />
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It's always fun so wake up to sweet nephews in their jammies.<br />
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And silly babies turning big boys.<br />
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And grandpas taking time to color.....even before he gets his mornin shower in and hair combed.<br />
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Brothers who give the best sled rides EVER!<br />
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Yes, Sarah, Melissa and Chrissy....you are seeing what you think you are seeing. The best lettermans jacket ever made!<br />
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Later, I had to take Lydia out to do some modeling. Snow modeling.<br />
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And for the full cheese ball factor, yes, we did do dorky jumping photos of me, too.<br />
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Aaron and Valerie. These two lovebirds. They don't get much more perfect for each other than this photo!<br />
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And because the camera was busted out, I had to insist that my small children stay out in the balmy 10degree temp just for 3 more seconds.<br />
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It was worth it! I want to eat them all! I am the.....no THE luckiest person in this photo to get each of them.<br />
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Then it was time to come indoors, enjoy a bunch of delicious food and open some presents.<br />
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This beautiful girl. She just has my heart.<br />
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Nothing like a Mickey lover getting his very own, self-sized Mickey. Look at that longing smile. Good job, Uncle Jason!<br />
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Spidey-boy.<br />
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Hulk-girl.<br />
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And the BIG daddy of the family. I just love this man. Of course, he is saluting me. Of course.<br />
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Just pure fun. I can't handle this photo.<br />
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Or this one. Snugs with Mickey. (he was actually sleeping)<br />
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And heading home on Christmas Day eve. Pretty nice.<br />
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We are blessed with family. We are blessed with love. We are blessed by Love, who is Jesus.<br />
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<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-84018186979589862582013-02-14T21:15:00.003-08:002013-02-14T21:15:32.383-08:00Santas Village 2012The yearly Santa's Village trip. These pretty ladies hauled us around on a sleigh ride.<br />
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Writing our letters to Santa.<br />
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Oh my heart. The way Chase draws a guy is just soooooooooooooo precious!<br />
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This contemplative thinker is probably bequesting a bow and arrow.<br />
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Donating via a really gigantic toy train.<br />
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This would be the point when Chase tells Santa that he wants rubber gloves for Christmas. Yes, he did.<br />
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My baby Boo doing his thing, just workin the frosting.<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3675_zps75e34e15.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3675_zps75e34e15.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The sleepy reindeer.<br />
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The Daddy hauling 2/3 of his gang.<br />
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Yet another fun day in December, spent together, as a family. Blessings abound.Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-86912474678032385852013-02-10T13:17:00.001-08:002013-02-10T13:17:33.214-08:00{DIY} Toddler Science Experiments On my way to wrapping up the last post for 2012 on the blog, I happened upon a few fun events in December and decided I better add these in too. So here we go, this blog ain't over yet!<br />
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So, those of you that know me on here, know that I claim myself NOT to be a crafter/DIYer or anything even closely related. It's not something I am heavily skilled in. However, you also know that I am never one to not even try. So, that is what you find here. Me, a non-crafty/DIYer....just doing that which is trying. And I happen to think that, even though, my attemps NEVER EVER turn out perfect or anywhere near "Pintrest quality", we always end up having a blast together, we make some great memories and sometimes I really like what I/we make. Today's example brings us to a great little DIY sort-of science project for your toddlers.<br />
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So all you need to start first are willing toddlers. I happen to have three of those. Especially if I even make the slightest mention of water or explosions. I think they will always come running for those.<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3630_zpsdfe02120.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3630_zpsdfe02120.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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Next, you will need a clear jar or vase. The clearer and cleaner, the better. Mine wasn't perfectly clear or free of spots as you can see at the top. But......ignore those little imperfections and just look for what the vase gives way to. In this case, the cutest three year old I've ever seen, with his face totally distorted. These are the things that make a heart smile.<br />
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From there, you just add water, oil, food coloring and whatever you sweet little momma or daddy heart has in your cupboards. Mix them, pour them, stir, them.....and if you are like me, photograph them.<br />
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It was so fun watching them watch and learn and discover.<br />
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The reactions of the experiements always, ALWAYS end up pale, in comparison to.....<br />
<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3595_zpse2bc8f57.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3595_zpse2bc8f57.jpg" width="425" /></a><br />
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Their reactions. The real reason you do this.<br />
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Their sweet, content, happy smiles.<br />
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We are not sure if Beckett was having a good time?<br />
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It was so hard to tell if it was worth it to shed my "keep the kitchen clean" mentality or "what if I don't do this project perfect just like Pintrest" lie.......really hard to tell here if Beckett had fun? Or not!<br />
<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3608_zps0cbc139f.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3608_zps0cbc139f.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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In the end, I think we might be able to guess that this little middle Superhero might even think that He just mastered this project and grew that superhero bicep one size bigger......<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3620_zps589e59d1.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3620_zps589e59d1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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But really what these projects might really do......<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3615_zps15f5cb57.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3615_zps15f5cb57.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Is grow their hearts a size bigger.<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3617_zpsceef79b9.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3617_zpsceef79b9.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Maybe for science. Maybe for their own self-esteem. And maybe for each other.<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC_3619_zps573511e6.jpg" border="0" height="425" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_3619_zps573511e6.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It's amazing how a few seemingly un-related ingredients....oil and water......food coloring and clean kitchen surfaces.....the perfect and the imperfect......how even they can work together, under the right conditions and explode with possibilies.<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_7074_zpscfd61eb2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_7074_zpscfd61eb2.jpg" /></a>Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-3643172198360133962013-01-26T19:09:00.002-08:002013-01-28T08:10:14.001-08:00The Heartbeat of Gun Control......incited by none other, than yours truly, otherwise known as Stay at Home Mom to three little monsters, ahem....I mean superheroes.<br />
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So it all started sort of innocently.<br />
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Firstly, I listened to this interesting video by a level-headed anti-gun-turned not anti-gun, gal. See <a href="http://www.ijreview.com/2013/01/31106-kira-davis-you-cant-ban-evil/">HERE</a>.<br />
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And then, my spunky and quite liberal friend, Rachel tuned in and said......what, you don't even own a gun!<br />
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To which I replied and showed her a photo of me (posted on FB-whoops!) firmly grasping our shotgun that my husband just got as a Christmas present, from myself and my parents. The photo has incited a bit of buzz but really it has become more about gun control.<br />
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So let's tackle this issue head on shall we?<br />
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I'm going to try to summarize the different points made and then add my closing thoughts. These are just comments made by regular folks out there who have beliefs and values for certain reasons. I'm not going to talking about a bunch of polls and data and stats....I'm just going to talk about people and their beliefs as a result of the photo of me, a little ole, grace-breathing, bible-verse Facebook posting mama....and her shotgun. Ahem. Oh and then I'll get to the real point of this post.<br />
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The first valid question brought up in response to the video I posted was the question of how far should we go with gun freedom? Should we allow common citizens to wield grenades or nuclear weapons was the gist of the question posed by one commenter in response to the video. To me that, idea seemed a bit over the top and just as bad as the idea why don't we just take all guns away period. Both are irrelevant because none are ever going to happen.<br />
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Then another commenter shared some of the points of the Presidents gun control plan and included a LOT of sarcasm (you know who you are, CaSandra).<br />
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Later the photo then took a life of it's own when my liberal friend Rachel demanded proof that the gun was in fact registered to me. At that point, I was like, what the heck?! Are you serious!!! I have three toddlers in my house, 5 and under.......I haven't even had time to register my last kid with the state, much less our frikkin rifle!!! So that went on for an hour, back and forth, of who really owns the gun?<br />
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From there the comments went all over the board from welfare to third world countries to the government becoming power mongers and so forth.<br />
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But what does this discussion really come down to?<br />
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What is at the heart of this issue.<br />
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What caused this to come about?<br />
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Wasn't it the calculated murder of 20 innocent children?<br />
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In my humble little opinion, you guys, this isn't about guns. It never has been and it never will be.<br />
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You can legislate and regulate and mandate the heck outa those puppies. It won't change this hard and cold, brutal fact: people will keep on killing.<br />
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Now I'm curious. And I will be the first to admit that I don't have facts and studies and figures for you. I'm just curious. How many people were killed by assault weapons last year in our country? And this is just my guess here.....go and fact check the crap out of me here if you want, but I bet you that assault rifles kill fewer people in this country as compared to handguns. Again, I'm not sure on the facts so if you are so inclined, go check that one out.<br />
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But let's assume for arguments sake that handguns kill the most people. Well....what the heck are we doing banning assault rifles? That would be a really idiotic thing to do. Let's ban guns. But what if it turns out that knives kill more people, than assault rifles....well, sorry Wolfgang Puck...but the U.S. Government has just put your amazing knives out of business. Ok, well, maybe it's not that kind of knife, but you get the point.<br />
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But, let's step in a bit deeper in the mud and muck of this debate.<br />
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If we want to ban the cause and we are studying and fact checking the crap out of this tool versus that tool than we have lost sight of a hard to swallow reality.<br />
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And really, maybe none of us want to look at the reality part.<br />
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Maybe it's just easier to blame this and that and ban this and that. Slap down this change to the written law and we have fixed the problem.<br />
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Instead of looking at the heart of the issue.<br />
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What is the heart of the issue?<br />
<br />
Speaking of the heart.......<br />
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what sets one heartbeat apart from another heartbeat?<br />
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Did the little heartbeats that were callously murdered on Dec 14th beat any differently than the little heartbeats of the victims that just experienced the stopping of their heartbeats this week Wednesday, right here in our town. And the Wednesday before this one and the Wednesday before that one?<br />
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About 25 of them to be exact. Every Wednesday.<br />
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Every week.<br />
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25 little future kindergartners.<br />
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Snuffed out.<br />
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Heartbeats beating, probably, if they were anything like any of my three sweet peanuts at that age, about 140-160 beats a minute. A wives tail tells us if the heartbeat sounds like a washing machine, it might be a girl...if it's a horse galloping...it's a boy. If that's the case, there have been a lot of horse races in my womb. Considering I have three boys.<br />
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But maybe the heart of the issue is really just that.<br />
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The heart.<br />
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Aren't hearts just hardened?<br />
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How does a barely more than a boy walk into a school of little barely older than babies themselves and unleash power so great that it stops those 20 sweet little beating hearts? Beating hearts that were supposed to go on to recess or spelling or junior high or a college campus or a wedding aisle or a delivery room for the biggest miracle of all.<br />
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Isn't is just interesting that this country is celebrating the anniversary of the 40th year of stopping little tiny heartbeats before they go on to their own kindergarten classrooms? The anniversary of our country passing a law that went on to allow 55 million little heartbeats to stop dead in their tracks.<br />
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And isn't it interesting that these 20 sweet little Connecticut gone heartbeats have urged us to such action. Such debate. Such intense feelings and emotions brought forth. 20 heartbeats stop and we have an executive order headed down the pipeline.<br />
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But the 55 million stopped heartbeats.<br />
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Not a whisper.<br />
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How about instead of gun control, we start a new idea. It's called Heart Control.<br />
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Perhaps a barely older than a boy grew up in a country where it was within the law to stop a beating heart in the name of choice. Perhaps the barely older than a boy grew up in a society where violence is so celebrated, so normal, that the top grossing movies at the box office often glorify blood and guts and evil. Perhaps the boy sat behind the console of a playstation and watched this over and over and over and over.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcDhajShU2OS8wg1FxoLr1WcEioQF__0VFdE2KhB3HPXpOdfqX8YV4iDHgvnnnEiGxiSHN4jULLOEoHte5FlfXQpqqclbNV2rbb9Wzg8A-Ogz2AFGCQtCKMkiyl6LXunm9roByVrpvbI/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-24+at+11.21.43+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcDhajShU2OS8wg1FxoLr1WcEioQF__0VFdE2KhB3HPXpOdfqX8YV4iDHgvnnnEiGxiSHN4jULLOEoHte5FlfXQpqqclbNV2rbb9Wzg8A-Ogz2AFGCQtCKMkiyl6LXunm9roByVrpvbI/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-24+at+11.21.43+PM.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a><br />
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And learned that killing people equals extra points. Perhaps there was no father. Perhaps it was the mental illness. Perhaps it was this. Perhaps it was that. Perhaps it wasn't just one thing, but many. Perhaps the many things that led him there started at the heart-level.<br />
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And perhaps it is crazy that we live in a country where a massacre like this happens and the President has to pass a bill to enact a study that will ask "do violent video games lead to violence?". Really, country, really? Do we need a study for this? There is only one answer. It doesn't matter what the study says. We don't need a study here. We need common sense and a culture that isn't desensitized. Because only in a desensitized world do we ask such an unbelievable question. Meaning, we have gotten so used to the images that we don't even know anymore if they are bad. Our brains have changed.<br />
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And what about our hearts?<br />
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How can our hearts mourn the 20 so deeply and demand change when the 55 million go unanswered?<br />
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Have our hearts changed yet?<br />
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Because if our hearts don't change, neither will theirs.<br />
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And the Lanza's and the Holmes and the next and the next.<br />
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Their hearts are in our hands. All of them.<br />
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It is our choice now how to proceed.<br />
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If WE do not change, this will not change.<br />
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How can we be of such blatant hypocracy to show these boys that the heartbeat isn't of value unless YOU decide it is, and then ask them not to decide? How can we say, you shall not murder, while we as a country allow and even celebrate the stopping of heartbeats without a whsiper. Not a whisper.<br />
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We can label it whatever we want. Choice. Reproductive rights. Rights of women. Rights. Rights. Choice. Rights. What are rights? Who gets them? In the end, no matter what you call it....doesn't the heartbeat just cease? Doesn't it stop? And the child is no more.<br />
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But if it ends as a result of choice and rights, somehow it isn't the same.<br />
<br />
Somehow it isn't the same situation as those sweet little babies murdered in CT.<br />
<br />
The heartbeat of the 14 week old baby, still inside the safe haven of her mother's womb, who very likely may have walked into that very school where these 20 babies were murdered.<br />
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How is that different? Someone please tell me.<br />
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Lanza decided. Holmes decided. The ones before them and the ones after. They decided that their own and the others' hearts weren't of value. They choose to go out as celebrities. Chose. They chose.<br />
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The 20 CT barely more than babies didn't choose. Just like the 55 million didn't choose.<br />
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We need to stop allowing ourselves to be distracted. By the guns.<br />
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The Lanza's and the Holmes and the rest of them deserved more from all of us. They were really victims themselves. It almost hurts to type that. But it might just be true.<br />
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If we do, allow ourselves to be distracted by the guns, the 20 will have gone in vain.<br />
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The 20 maybe came for this purpose.<br />
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Maybe the 20 represent something more than Gun Control. Maybe they represent more than a new video game study, by executive order.<br />
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Maybe the 20 came and lost their hearts so we could find ours?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><b>Ez. 36:26</b></span></div>
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And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.</div>
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<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-2551203911461776972012-12-29T11:55:00.001-08:002012-12-29T11:55:30.413-08:00Thanksgiving 2012I'm working on wrapping up the blog for 2012 and have big plans to ACTUALLY print each year into some awesome blog books. I am feeling behind and under the gun to get it all caught up to speed for this year. Being a busy mom, with three littles never letting me sit down for more than a few seconds, makes organizing and saving, maybe editing and quite possibly even publishing some of the many photos I take, a bit of a task. I have no idea what 2013 looks like for this blog or possibly a new blog or maybe even no blog at all. I'm in the reflective mode of what this blog means, what it is for, if it serves any purpose beyond our own personal memories. I'm heading into prayer on this and a few other big things for our future. I'm super excited to see what God has in store. I saw a cute word art on Pintrest that said something like, "Don't Pick Up What God Wants You To Put Down". I need to explore what meaning this might have in our life.<br />
<br />
In the meantime.......<br />
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Thanksgiving 2012 was just a all around great time! We headed way far across the state to my in-laws home. And just before I left, I had to snap an image to get all my Instagram and FB friends into the spirit this year. You are welcome. ;)<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/2012-11-23_1353639785.jpg" /></a><br />
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Maverick and the beanbag ball.<br />
<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_2269.jpg" width="425" /></a><br />
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He's so dramatic. <br />
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Poser.<br />
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Every boy needs a Doodle I think.<br />
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It's time to get the cards out, ladies and gents.<br />
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Great-Grandma Frances is recovering from a recent health issue but boy she was sure her spunky ole' self when we put a hand of cards in her hand.<br />
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I love this photo. Great-aunt Marls knows how to make that boy laugh!<br />
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Speaking of that boy. He's always up to something. Here they are just high-fiving innocently. But wait until I leave the room.....then the shenanigans will begin. I assure you.<br />
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A little skyping with my own sweet family. Look at all three of us on here. We all have really messed up faces. It's like we are still trying to figure out how to open up an internet browser or something.<br />
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Speaking of internet browsers. The kids were really glued to Donald Duck on YouTube.<br />
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How cute is this store front? It's called MoeMoe's Garden and it is a must.<br />
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Movie parties need jammies.<br />
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After the little boys went to bed....the big boys got out the gaming systems. I didn't photo them in<br />
jammies. :)<br />
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My mother in law like to tackle Pinterest projects when we get together. These were our cute<br />
Christmas tree rice krispie pops.<br />
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And while I'm not taking on a whole lot with photography for my business these days, I did have a sweet friend of mine, Nicole, ask me to help document her family while all together during Thanksgiving. We just happened to be celebrating with our families in the same town so I was thrilled to get behind the lens for them. Nicole's sister happened to grab this shot on her smart phone while I was shooting. I loved this photo because it captures so much of what I love about photography. A family all squished together, close as can be, with the beautiful world surrounding them. God blessed all of us abundantly that day with the absolute perfect weather and lighting for a magical moment, now forever etched in their memories through these awesome photographs. It really is an honor for me to be a part of it. :) And thank you Janelle for the photo!<br />
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These two are just like two peas in pod.<br />
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And this might just be my favorite picture of the weekend.<br />
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Or maybe this one.<br />
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All in all, a lot of fun was had. The weather was gorgous. We are blessed beyond our knowing with food and faith and family. And I was right there to document it.<br />
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<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-73888659659954225982012-12-19T21:06:00.001-08:002012-12-19T21:06:08.298-08:00The Simple ThingsIt started snowing yesterday and I said, "Kids! get your cute little bottoms up here and get on your coats and boots and get those rumps outside...it's time to play outside and throw some snow!" And any idea with the words "throw" or "snow" in it, is pretty much a no-brainer for my boys.<br />
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Of course, they grabbed their shovels and went full boar!<br />
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There's just something about snowflakes falling on your baby.<br />
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Love: it's the ONLY language i want to learn to speak.<br />
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And then you watch a miracle happen.<br />
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And maybe we should all just slow the heck down and take a lesson from these little wonders. They get the little things in life. And watching them experience these little things that we so often take for granted....just makes life make sense again and again.<br />
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And after it's all over, and little boys are wringing wet and there might even still be a flake in their hair.... hearing them at the supper table thank God, for these simple little things...and for the fun they had....and the snow they ate when mom wasn't watching.....it makes a mom, a girl, sit back and think....man......these kids....these nearly still babies...they make it so simple. So perfectly simple.<br />
<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-25883476202284009112012-12-10T20:43:00.001-08:002012-12-10T20:43:25.326-08:00{DIY} Turkey DudeDIY Turkey Dude for Thanksgiving or any day really.<br />
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Again, I need to start this off by saying, "Shannon no good at craft"
But, really, I can only do the easy ones. If it's on this blog, it for sure has a few qualities:<br />
1. easy, pre-K easy, (for the mom)<br />
2. cheap, almost all ingredients are found at home<br />
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Ok, so here is what you need.<br />
1. Empty toilet paper roll<br />
2. Construction paper-cut feathers, beak and legs. No pattern needed people. Don't get all, "ohhh i need to be perfect, i need to cut a straight line....just cut....and not your finger!<br />
3. Googely eyes -I use a googley eyes on EVERYTHING! {it's so fun!}<br />
4. hot glue gun (use caution here, clearing throat and raising eyebrow)<br />
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And that's it. Have at 'er. Just glue the eyes, feathers, beak and little legs on. My boys basically used theirs as superhero turkey fighters and went to battle. Gobble gobble.Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-33850533242358674302012-12-02T22:15:00.000-08:002012-12-02T22:15:10.234-08:00Christmas Parade The Holiday Parade this year was just another complete hoot! I feel like Mrs. Claus is ready to jump up out of her seat here and do a broadway act!<br />
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Let me back up a bit.<br />
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Before the parade, we hit up a saaa-weet Pizza joint downtown. Chase was clearly all smiles.<br />
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Beckett just working his magic.<br />
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After we loaded up on cheese and bread dough, we headed out into the festivities of the night.<br />
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The show was about to begin.<br />
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Hello cute old red truck.<br />
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Hello Dinosaur-man with glow in the dark mini hula hoops?<br />
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I love the anticipation of what the next float would bring.<br />
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My girl Lyd, and her BFF.<br />
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My brother razzing up my middle boy. I adore this photo!<br />
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Look at this adorable little family of three. I forced these guys to take an impromtu photo for me. Because: A. they are adorable. and B. they are adorable.<br />
Oh, ok and because I just love the mama! I first met her when I did photographs for her little girl. Little Claire was just a tu-tu wearing little chubby baby way back then. I remember this little family being so cute, and I especially remember the mama being super awesome and friendly and just one of those people you want to hang out with so their zest for life rubs off on you! A year or so later she and I are besties and business partners! I just knew I had to make her the face of our business of creating Mompreneurs! #jlube #changingthegame #creatingmompreneurs<br />
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Pretty Christmas Parade Bokeh.<br />
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My SIL whooping it up and showing us how to dance, Gangham-style.<br />
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Oh, you don't know what I'm talking about? Don't worry, I just learned about this a few weeks ago but it's quite the rage, the beat is catchy and all I can say is just youtube it. Gangnam style. Prepare to be wowed.<br />
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In the end, it was a fun night! Merry Christmas!<br />
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Let the celebrating of a Savior wrapped in manager begin!!!!Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-90326989150275991962012-11-20T07:32:00.000-08:002012-11-20T07:32:12.581-08:00{DIY Turkey Baby}So, you saw this cute idea on Pinterest and now you want one for your Thanksgiving huh?<br />
Well, I don't blame you. I did the same thing last year. It is very E.A.S.Y. Trust me here. I don't craft or sew or go near needles or thread so this had to be Shannon-approved. And it was.
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So,here are the ingredients.<br />
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(1) very cute baby. -had one of these at home. :)<br />
(1) brown Onsie-I got mine at Hobby Lobby for seriously $2.<br />
(5) Felt paper size sheets-got mine at Walmart for like chump change per sheet. White for eyes, Black for eye balls, orange for gaggle and feather, blue feather, yellow/green feather, red feather.<br />
Some fabric glue.<br />
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Steps<br />
1. Cut out all the parts.<br />
2. Glue them on<br />
3. Lay out to dry.<br />
4. Put onsie on cute baby for a complete Turkey Baby.<br />
5. Take photos.<br />
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And finally,<br />
6. Enjoy your Turkey Baby.......and try not to eat this one.<br />
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<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_1068.jpg" /></a>Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-48815876549973240692012-11-09T21:00:00.001-08:002012-11-09T21:01:46.304-08:00Here is What is Up. <br />
So a few things to catch up on here.<br />
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We had a goodbye party for the greatest preschool teacher that ever lived in the whole wide entire world!!!! The kids were sad and the mommies were even sadder because we know just how much impact this woman has had on our children.<br />
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Ms. Randa....you are just really, really super awesome and we hate that you are gone! We miss you!<br />
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The cake was super cute!<br />
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I made these doo-higgys for the party. Super easy. OBVIOUSLY because I did it. The boys had so much fun making them with me! Score Pinterest.<br />
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My doggy groomer and new friend, Karla asked me if we let Maverick sleep with us. To which I said ......."never (wink, wink) and showed her this picture on my phone.<br />
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(that's Derrick's head trying to escape this photo....so as to not have to be associated with all my shenanigans)<br />
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We had a family fun night right before Halloween!<br />
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This was what happened with me out of the room for just a minute...<br />
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A Closer-up for proof.<br />
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Yes, that is my five year old with a powertool, and no, my bathroom mirror in the previous picture is soooooo not dirty. You see nothing. Not one form of a spot that the mother has not tended to in weeks.<br />
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We made chalkboard pumpkins another day. This was not halloween but yes, my child is dressed like a Dragon.<br />
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On the way to VEGGIETALES-whoop whoop!!! We know how to get craunky.<br />
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Especially, Chase. Clearly he was really ready to get his veggie-grove on.<br />
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Here they are-those big awesome vegetables with great lessons and parables from the bible!<br />
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We can always count on Maverick for a smile.<br />
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On the actual Halloween, the boys were pretty much turtles ALL day. I love this photo!!!<br />
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Because turtles need swords.<br />
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Action.<br />
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Ever since he has morphed in a TMNT, he has been holding his hand in this position. He literally does it ALL.THE.TIME.<br />
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We gots some snow.<br />
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I decided there wasn't enough teal in my house so I started painting pumpkins.<br />
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Every busy mom or dad needs this. Turns fat into fuel. Do I need to say any more?<br />
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Thank you to our awesome bro and sister in law, Derrick and I went to a wedding out of town, with our adult friends.....ALONE!!!!! It was pretty uhhhhhh-mazing.<br />
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We so adore our children but we were just laughing about what our day would have been like at this fancy wedding and meal with the ages and stages of our little baby ninjas. Let's just say many a table cloth would have been pulled off!<br />
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I didn't bring my big camera but I wished I would have because this wedding was sooo pretty. I loved the big lanterns all over.<br />
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This was cute! I couldn't control myself from getting this photo. I just hope the photographer was in tight on this shot. Otherwise.....heeyyyyy, Jesse and Liz! I'm in your cake photos!<br />
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Me n my boo.<br />
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Then a few weekends back, my momma and cousins were in town and we got to meet everyone out for breakfast. This was Lyd's pancake!<br />
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Then I took Lyd on a little girl's date! This is us being dorky posers in the mirror at Claires.<br />
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Mom.......these are the boots that Lyd tells me to tell you that she wants for Christmas.<br />
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You're welcome. :)<br />
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Then Chase had his best gal pal over for dinner.<br />
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I read this in my parents mag and I think I should send this to Ann Voskamp. She be diggin this!<br />
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Lots of good wisdom from Caribou.<br />
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Chase having a quick nap at Preschool.<br />
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Some stunning skies going on around these parts.<br />
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Beckett discovers Toaster Strudels.<br />
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How can you argue with this? So I didn't.<br />
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And I was leaving to run out for a quick business task while the boys played with their daddy and ransacked the house and I had to just stop at the sight of the sunset through the steamy window. And of course....you know me, I'm gonna totally take a photo and add a little inspiration to for the world.<br />
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<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-55622221046785132092012-10-31T23:06:00.000-07:002012-10-31T23:06:37.389-07:00Halloween and Warner Brothers called.Um......okay, so Warner Brothers just called.
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And apparently, they want their Turtles back!!!!!
And who can blame them?<br />
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Not only is this the cutest thing I have ever, noooooo, EV-EV-EV-EVER seen in my life, but this has Hollywood written all over it.
Thus why the call from Warner Brothers.
Just kidding. But I will be entirely shocked if they don't call me once this blog post goes viral. I am pretty sure they will want to cast these three in a movie. It's not like being their mother I would be biased or anything. I'm just sayin. It's my best guess.<br />
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Before I get this Halloween show on the road, I need to stop and give credit where credit is due.<br />
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You see about a month ago, I found this adorable homemade Turtle costume (similar to the ones seen here) online. And I knew just what I had to do next. What any awesome domesticated girl would do.....I sent the picture in an email to my MIL, Laurie and said, "soooo...what do you think? you think we can tackle this?" Now my MIL, being the smart lady that she is, knew full well that by "we" i actually meant we as in she doing it and me being with her in spirit. You see, anyone and especially my mother in law knows that there is only one place for me to be during a sewing project. And that place is no less than 20 feet away at all times. You see, not only am I a teensy tiny bit bad at tending to the minor, little detials but I happen to be double cousins/basically sisters with the girl who just started a little painting business and named it...."It's Good Enough". Like I said, I'm better observing from afar. But I did score the shirts and pants at Walmart with the hubs, which was a great deal and a pretty good contribution to the "our" project. So, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, Laurie for all your hard work on theses amazing shells and accessories.<br />
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Moving on.<br />
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We headed in to town to visit a few of our friends. This was one friend who wasn't quite home when we got there so I took it upon myself to have a little photo shoot on their front porch.
And of course Chase, no, excuse me, it's Chasiel (chase + rafeal)....Chasiel has to ham it up for his mamma!<!-----------><br />
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Continued hamming.<br />
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And maybe even a few dance moves to boot.<br />
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_1231.jpg" />Then we let them loose on the streets and it was pure Turtle action from there.
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They got a lot lot of smiles.
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Beckett, no Bikey {Beckett + Mikey}, was just on cloud nine to be out running around, just like his big brothers, hittin up the neighbors for candy.</div>
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We returned home with some tired boys who were ready to check out their candy stashes.
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Bikey concentrating very hard on this ever so important task.<br />
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It's either that or he's saying...".....hands off girl!"<br />
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In the end, it doesn't get much better than this.<br />
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p.s. Back away, Warner Brothers, just back away very slowly. We will be keeping them-permanatly. :)<br />
<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-78075039665021831482012-10-27T21:43:00.004-07:002012-10-30T10:37:08.146-07:00the best Pumpkins aren't pumpkins.A few weeks ago, we got right straight into the pumpkin holiday with a fun family night.<br />
Messes aren't always bad.
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But before that, we headed out for a little local festival.<br />
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The boys were pretty pumped to ride the little train car.<br />
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Leighton and this guy had quite an exchange.<br />
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My husband just bein as handsome as ever.<br />
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Pumpkin pickin is a serious and fine art.<br />
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The best pumpkins in the patch....aren't pumpkins.<br />
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Back at home, we got the paints out and started to work.<br />
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Chasey boy. Silly goose.
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Who can say no to this kid. EVER!!!!
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Somebody loves his life.
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The most beautiful mess ever.
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My big boy and his awesome art skills.
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How great is this life?
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And while my favorite pumpkins aren't even pumpkins, I really had a lot of fun painting myself a chevron striped pumpkin-of sorts.
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Happy Pumpkining!
Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-91628603745313173252012-10-22T08:42:00.001-07:002012-10-22T19:05:00.138-07:00{Inspire Me Monday} Lessons with baby superheroes.Make sure you teach your babies........<br />
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They can do whatever they set their minds to.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6153.jpg" /><br />
They are strong.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6150.jpg" /><br />
They CAN fly.<br />
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Soon enough they will be showing others that they, to, can fly.<br />
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Give them wings. Or capes. Either one will work.Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-70888373550008823502012-10-18T20:35:00.004-07:002012-10-18T20:35:56.214-07:00A week or so in review.It's been a real pretty fall around here.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6210.jpg" /><br />
The leaves that haven't yet fallen....they create a beautiful picture. Reaching up toward the Light they need.<br />
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Chase and I are enjoying our secret time when big brother is at his extra day of school and little brother goes down for a nap a few minutes early so we can just be us and put together human bodies.<br />
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One morning Leighton decided he was going to hit ALLllllllll the food groups. I had no clue he was doing this until it had been prepared.<br />
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We had a really fun impromptu leaf play date with our cousins.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6251.jpg" /><br />
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There was a lot of running and jumping into leaves which required the use of a very convienient water fountain.<br />
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Then we went for a quick weekend to visit my most best friend in the whole world. And her new dog. Hi Looooola.<br />
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The crazy thing about the trip is now that I look at this picture I barely even remember seeing Lola. I know she was there but between our 5 very small children, the gabbing, and furniture restoration project we tackled....the sweet dog is a bit of a blur to me. But, she is very cute.<br />
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Here is a little glimpse of the chaos right when we arrived. Pizza is the the one thing that make them all sit down for about 10 minutes straight.<br />
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Derrick and I forced our kids to take a nap one time. And then we decided we should take a nap. But he ended up checking the sports scores on his phone and I ended up taking pictures of us not sleeping.<br />
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Then we took the kids to a cool museum to dig for dinosaur bones and watch a super awesome corn movie. And yes, I do take real, bigsy photos with my big girl camera but these days, instagram pictures of the editing screen is about as good as it gets.<br />
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The dino bone digging was a hit.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6228.jpg" /><br />
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I decided to get nerdy glasses. For real. I haven't ordered them yet.But don't you think I should?<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6218.jpg" /><br />
I texted a picture to my ultra-stylish and modern new BFF and she was all....."soooooooo......are you going as Harry Potter for Halloween?". I love her and her cute wording. :)<br />
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Then we came back home and I got to work on a fun photography project for our church. It was so fun and I hope my work can be used for bigger things than just a photograph.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6305.jpg" /><br />
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Then we worked on our own cutsie project. And believe it or not, it was not from Pinterest! It was from Leighton's brain.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6301.jpg" /><br />
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Me and Chase shared a glass of Root Beer.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6299.jpg" /><br />
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We hit a super awesome day for a Pumpkin Patch trip with our super awesome Preschool.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6285.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6289.jpg" />'<br />
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There was a lot of this going on.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6288.jpg" /><br />
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Therefore, someone didn't make it home in a state of consciousness.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6284.jpg" /><br />
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All in all, we are having a really great fall.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6209.jpg" /><br />
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And our cute boys continue to makes every single little thing, even a grungy old water fountain in a park, a freakin festival of awesome.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6207.jpg" /><br />
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Stay tuned.Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-91279562937634224532012-10-07T21:54:00.001-07:002012-10-07T21:54:19.880-07:00Nuff said and stuff. wow. i count myself as so beyond blessed.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6013.jpg" />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6084.jpg" /><br />
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last week we hit up a little fall festival
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6085.jpg" /><br />
<br />
a place to fall in love all over again.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6083.jpg" /><br />
<br />
later in the week, we hit up a local storytime
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6138.jpg" /><br />
<br />
They are just so cute, those three.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6128.jpg" /><br />
<br />
After storytime, I took them on a date for lunch.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6134.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Leighton stopped us and said, "wait, wait...what have we forgotten here mommmmmm???"
To pray, buddy. I swear, we learn more from them than they do from us.OH these two. Their preschool journey together has strengthened their bond so much.
How does a heart not see this life as a pure, unrelenting gift?
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6139.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Later, I decided to take matters into my own hands in the hair department.
Here was the before.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6117.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Here goes..........hair?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6114.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Really, they turned out pretty cute. As seen here. Can barely see the hair dos because they are busy planning their daily hiding escapade right before their daddy bursts in the door. Which then turns into a half an hour of screaming and running and hiding from the guy that stole all our hearts.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6142.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Here is the pre-daddy walking in hiding.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6148.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
I caught Beckett lining up one of his new favorite toys.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6111.jpg" /><br />
<br />
One of my favorite parts of my Work at Home job is while I am handling things off and on in my little bedroom of an office throughout the day, there isn't a moment I have to miss. It is the absolute perfect solution for every modern momma who wants to be home with their babies. Another reason I am so so beyond blessed. And I have many craft projects to prove it!<br />
<br />
At one point I came out of my room to discover this little creation.Me and Marie Osmund have the same look on our faces. We are all like, "what, what?"<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6096.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Leighton explained that they built a fortress wall to protect the TV buttons from Beckett. Duh, mom!
<br />
<br />
And then there's Maverick.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6103.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Sometimes, Maverick acts like he is soooo deprived of walks and sooo bored. And he gets sad about that.
But, really, how can one get bored in this house? Whatev, Mav.<br />
<br />
Even so, whenever one member in this family gets sad....another member steps right in to help a friend or canine in need. Cue, Beckett.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6101.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
And really, do not ever let Maverick fool you. Because he is always, ALWAYS scheming.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6132.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And now that I posted this photo on Facebook, no teacher will ever have to wonder if he or she needs to question the Heick boys' when they say...."the dog ate my homework". Nuff said.Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-40583643447951712532012-10-06T11:37:00.001-07:002012-10-06T11:37:44.620-07:00The hero at our house. Happy Birthday to my love! 10 years ago, this month, we met and I couldn't resist becoming totally obsessed with you. I knew, knew, knew that I HAD to get you to fall in love with me. 10 years later, one perfect little home, one crazy LARGE and naughty Godendoodle, and three life-changing little boys later.....I love loving you. The one who makes it so easy for me to love you every.single.day.
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9125.jpg">
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_6025.jpg">
This photos tells an amazing story. About who you really are. You are the man I married who always chooses to build into his children and wife first. You are a man who understands that the real currency of life is to strive to be the hero that they need.
Happy Birthday, Love. Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-91626957957424077752012-10-03T07:06:00.000-07:002012-10-03T07:06:33.573-07:00One Summer Night.
I am still living back in the summer. I am in love with this fall so far. It has been perfect. Amazing really. But, summer was whoa whoa good. The summer of 2012 was just a dang good summer.<br />
And I have thousands of photos to show for it. I wish I had the time to make thought out, memorable posts for all of those moments. Maybe I will still get around to it. I hope you don't mind if I go back and forth between memories and current stuff. It may get a little confusing when I print all my awesome blog books but maybe that's just life. Life is made up of a lot of wonderful memories that we don't want to forget and also the right here and now moments. And maybe my blog just represents that life is good and I can't keep up with it. And it has just hit me that this is a good problem to have. So with that, I am going back for a moment.<br />
<br />
To a summer night we can never forget.<br />
<br />
<b><img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7024-1.jpg" /></b><br />
<br />
A daddy and teaching his boy how to make the perfectly toasted marshmallow.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6951-1.jpg" /><br />
Even marshmallows can provide teachable, you'll never get this time with your kid back moments.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6970-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Chase deciding about the brown, crunchy parts.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6958-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Maverick may not get walked every single day like he should, but I'd say he leads a priiiiiiiiity cozy lifestyle.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6963-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Ohhhh Daddddeeeeeee...just one more please.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6954.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Time for a drink.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6993-1.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_6988-1.jpg" /><br />
Leighton, cautious little Leighton, sparkling away.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7044-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Chase.....show us how you can spell your name.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7066-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7072-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Stories by the campfire. I think this was the dragon hissing in the story.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7026-1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Memories. Sweet, sweet memories. <br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7015-1.jpg" /><br />
<b><br /></b>Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-47053669399225923112012-09-21T11:19:00.002-07:002012-09-21T11:19:37.004-07:00{Fridays on Faith} oh my stars and the oxygen we really need. I talked to a real sweet gal over the phone the other day and she said......."oh my stars!"<br />
and I'm all what what? did you just say...."oh my stars!"??<br />
because for the record, i didn't even know i loved that phrase, but I DO! I'm totally stealing that from that sweet little new gal pal of mine!!!! so thanks, gal pal! you know who you are!!!!<br />
<br />
and being that I am starting with a totally random story, why not just move into more randomness of life and share some complete randomness in our world.<br />
<br />
sometimes.....just sometimes, you don't say "No" to your sweet little three year old when he walks up to you in the grocery store with a case of these in his hands.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5950_zps7f011df1.jpg" /><br />
drugs yes. say no to those.<br />
but cute little dino cookies held by one of the three cutest little gifts you were ever given.<br />
ummmmm, yes. say yes to that.<br />
<br />
and then Derrick and I woke up one morning with what felt like 15 extra kids in our bed, oh wait, that was just maverick and the three kids. and we picked ourselves up off the floor and opened the door to our room to discover this.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5949_zps4185e271.jpg" /><br />
<br />
this was not there when we adults went to bed. so someone built this while the rest of us slept.<br />
<br />
we weren't 100% sure who had done it.<br />
we were 1000% sure.<br />
and apparently, the late night building of cities antics made for an added in nap at suppertime for someone.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5952_zps61631740.jpg" /><br />
<br />
then my uhhhhh-mazing niece went and turned 5 on me.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5911_zpsf3d4c40f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
my sister in law rocked this out for the party.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5962_zps92120a1c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and she keeps random parachutes in her bag of tricks as well.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5932_zps8335ad85.jpg" /><br />
well played, valerie jean. well played.<br />
<br />
back at home, strange things continue to happen.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5893_zpsdfe90d2d.jpg" /><br />
<br />
it started out innocent enough.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5888_zpse3e72084.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and ended in a leg head lock by a baby. naturally.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5889_zps8eb0dfef.jpg" /><br />
<br />
then this little holiday catalog showed up at my doorstep.oh my stars!!!!!!<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5908_zps85212e74.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and i then i realized a few things.<br />
<br />
motherhood is.....<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5951_zps862e7feb.jpg" /><br />
messy.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5955_zpse7a765f0.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and it's beautiful, too.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5956_zps36fff4b6.jpg" /><br />
<br />
especially when they start drawing you things like this.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5957_zpsdf4954c5.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and i sent my husband this via text message and a fun new chalkboard app called Real Chalk.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5948_zpsc96b1dfa.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and pizza parlor family dates are fun.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5910_zpse7e59c40.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5935_zpsfab6a87f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and there are times to work.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5946_zpsb1f70069.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and times to put it all aside for the real work.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5953_zps92ed6f71.jpg" /><br />
the work of life.<br />
<br />
and when you think laundry sucks. and you are walking up the stairs with what seems like the 14th billion load that never stops piling and when will you ever put it away......you see this.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5977_zpsa5ac2a12.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and you realize:<br />
why would you complain (even if it's just in your head) about doing laundry when it's for them?<br />
why would you complain about anything when you return to 3 brothers making up a silly game and playing together quietly? and the whole dang thing forms a heart.<br />
they had no idea they did this. they still don't.<br />
but what are the chances?<br />
was this more than a mere game played by 3 toddlers?<br />
was this a gift?<br />
was this a love gift from the the great gift-giver to remind me what it's really all about?<br />
what the laundry and the endless sweeping of the crumbs and the be heres and go theres and the squares to check off and don't push hims and every last thing....isn't this where it all stops?<br />
where it stops you take a breath and breath in this real oxygen.<br />
the oxygen that sustains us.<br />
the life giving, gift giving little moments.<br />
and OH MY STARS!!! there it is.<br />
nothing but a reminder that the One who gave your first breath and will take your last<br />
.......is still there giving every breath in between.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-49388058377664610362012-09-13T22:30:00.000-07:002012-09-13T22:32:10.027-07:00Annual Camping TripThe third annual Mijangos/Heick camping trip was held in late July and was another roaring success.<br />
Cassie and I are THE best of friends. Nearly sisters by genetics....but not quite. Surely soul sisters.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4902.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We met almost exactly halfway between our too far away towns and hunkered down in a couple of these doo-daddies.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4951.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I like these doo-daddies because I am afraid of bears and stuff and tent walls don't seem thick enough for machete like claws. The view was impeccable.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4836.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4953.jpg" /><br />
See, I wasnt' kiddin.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4857.jpg" /><br />
Nice views I tell you.<br />
<br />
Ok so honestly, I have almost 200 somewhat run through the editor photos quickly and I want to share them all because they represent so much fun to be etched into our memories. But, alas, that would be a little overboard. So I'll try to keep it within reason here. That being said, it's hard to decide where to even start. So..I will just start.<br />
<br />
This was my first <strike>attempt</strike> failure at taking a normal human being photo of ones three children who have necks that do know how to turn the correct way, as in toward their mama.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7820.jpg" /><br />
<br />
later, i convinced all of them that if they just sit in some formation of happy little kids, i would fill their short pockets with marshmallows. shhhh-don't tell their mom.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4894.jpg" /><br />
then there was some crafty craft cereal beading, brought to you by Cassie.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7844.jpg" /><br />
hi Gerardo.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7863.jpg" /><br />
<br />
there was deck-rail jumping.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7954.jpg" /><br />
<br />
this was the very first thing the boys did together when they got out of the car.<br />
little creators i tell you.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4842.jpg" /><br />
<br />
fire-starter man. starts fire.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4898.jpg" /><br />
<br />
this one. being this one.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7924.jpg" /><br />
<br />
the evenings were just stunning.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7701.jpg" /><br />
<br />
the kids aint bad either.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7682.jpg" /><br />
<br />
time to dig those marshmallows out of your little short pockets boys and girls.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7663.jpg" /><br />
<br />
late-night adult conversations.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4939.jpg" /><br />
<br />
glow-sticks.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7740.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Cassie...what are you tracing with those glow-sticks?????? oh yes, those are your lungs.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7722.jpg" /><br />
<br />
mornings weren't complete without our friend, Caffine.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7765.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and Derrick is one mighty fine cook, indoors and outdoors.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7752.jpg" /><br />
<br />
there was early morning fishing.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4942.jpg" /><br />
daddy's stringing.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7785.jpg" /><br />
cute three year olds in jammies. with belly protruding.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7777.jpg" /><br />
<br />
if you can't catch a fish....the next best thing is this.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7828.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and a little too much fishin and frog catchin sometimes catches up to a boy.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4943.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Beckett summed it up best when I asked him how much fun we had.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4897.jpg" /><br />
<br />
photography of photography.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_4860.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and our family. on the beach.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_7894.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Thank you, Cassie! Thank you for helping us continue this for our families!Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-52055256618430984962012-09-12T06:05:00.000-07:002012-09-12T06:05:21.460-07:001st Day of PreschoolHis handwriting. Just a three year old. My 2nd baby. Off to Pre-K with my first this week.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5875.jpg" /><br />
{Gasp} Did you read the bottom.......when he grows up, he wants to be a daddy. I would say the boy has a hero for a daddy. I would say the daddy has done his job right well.<br />
<br />
The one with that look on his face. At all times.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9015.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The silly face making<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9008.jpg" /><br />
<br />
momma heart melting baby boy. Not so much a baby anymore.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9010.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Off to Pre-K.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9025.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And ready to conquer the world.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9030.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I know he will.<br />
<br />
And then there is the one who went before him, who will shelter him this year.<br />
<br />
The well-thought out, careful, sweet one.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5874.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Oh how sweet is this one, my first?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9053.jpg" /><br />
<br />
He wants to be a fireman.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9046.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Lost his first tooth by accident. Now 5 and in love with school and doing projects and writing and drawing and painting and reading and music. So good at music, this boy.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9056.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Chase was sooooo excited to hang up his backpack. (ok, not the pink one in the background!)<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9076.jpg" /><br />
<br />
He is going to be well taken care of with the best preschool teacher that ever lived. (if she only knew how much we all talk about how much we love her all the time, and how she is so patient and calm and how does she handle all of our kids?)<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9079.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And he will be under the careful, protective wings of his big brother.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9084.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I cannot wait to see what this looks like at the end of the year!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9087.jpg" /><br />
<br />
ok, mom....he says....you can go now. i got this. we got this!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9088.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and a mommy returns home with the last one.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9063.jpg" /><br />
wants to be like his big brothers.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/DSC_9069.jpg" /><br />
ready now for a snuggle and a nap. a loooong nap she prays.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5881.jpg" /><br />
<br />
and there she sits. a quiet house. everyone is where they should be.<br />
bigger ones in preschool. baby in his crib with dreams.<br />
i take a deep breath and breath this grace in.<br />
<br />
and then......(zipper of an album scratching sound stopping the soundtrack).....smack myself in the face and say, "get to work you fool.....this will only last for 2 more hours!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-59192342639496020952012-09-07T04:55:00.000-07:002012-09-07T04:55:26.549-07:00{Fridays on Faith} and funny politics.Politics really sorta make me chuckle. I quite enjoy reading all the hullabalo on Facebook. Sometimes I even chime in, although I really have no idea what I'm talking about. I have a vague interest in it, but you won't find me wearing a bandana chanting a mans name at any arena. There are only a few human names that I will probably ever chant: my redonkulously level-headed husband, my hilarious daddy, and judging by the first soccer game of the season yesterday...oh yes, i'm gonna be one of "those" moms.<br />
<br />
And in the not so humanly realm, but most important...... you can at sporadic and often times in our house find me raising the roof, with some pretty awesome <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onomxuf5Cns">Jesus Culture</a> worship music in the background. Me and the kids, rockin it out together. Because Jesus is our political superhero.<br />
<br />
So, that being said, I want to share with you....via screen prints and links some pretty funny schtuff I have seen on Facebook.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/Screenshot2012-09-07at55834AM.png" /><br />
<br />
This drawing is from one of my favoreeeeet bloggers. She is a baller. She is hilarious. She is a mom who makes me laugh at my computer screen alot! Love this ladaaaaay. <a href="http://www.nicegirlnotes.com/">Roo of Nice Girl Notes</a>.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/Screenshot2012-09-07at53339AM.png" /><br />
Check out her recent Ballers of History post, related to this drawing. Click.<a href="http://www.nicegirlnotes.com/abraham-lincoln">HERE.</a><br />
<br />
And after sifting through a few days of swooning over Obama remarks on Facebook, I found this little Facebook convo that I thought was quite interesting and even more funny.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/politico.jpg" /><br />
<br />
(i blurbed out their names via photoshop because I don't know these people that well, and I'm not sure they would want to be associated with my "crazy whack mom blog".....notice though...I did manage to circle my own face because i think it's funny how facebook adds your face for you, just in case you want to comment....by the way, did i just say, "blurb"?)<br />
<br />
And this was my recent post. Although I don't do politics too often, I couldn't hold my tongue on this one after seeing some of the remarks and some of the footage from the DNC. And the verse of the day just struck me in this way.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/Screenshot2012-09-07at65001AM.png" /><br />
<br />
Now I'm moving on to a little inspiration. I loved these recent quotes from a crazy and awesome life coach on FB!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/Screenshot2012-09-07at62608AM.png" /><br />
<br />
So true Sandi! You shout it!<br />
<br />
And almost last but not least are some recent writings from my new favorite author, Ann Vonskamp of the <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/one-thousand-gifts-book/">One Thousand Gifts</a> and her relaxing and always heart-opening blog, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/">A Holy Experience.</a><br />
<br />
If you have children and wonder what it will be like to send them off into the world, or you have recently done this....this POST is for you. And it was for me.<br />
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<tr style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><td id="content" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; width: 698px;"><div class="post-11875 post type-post status-publish format-standard hentry category-1000gifts category-eucharistic-living category-gift-list category-gratitude category-homeschooling category-mothering-prayer self-clear" id="post-11875" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #171212; font-family: Bookman, Palatino, Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.5px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 700; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Grace — it is strong enough to carry even the things never done, the things heaviest of all.</strong></div>
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<br />
Or there's the more recent post, of hers. <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/09/how-to-cultivate-the-habit-of-focus-in-an-age-of-distraction/">On Foucs during the Age of Distraction. </a><br />
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<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #171212; font-family: Bookman, Palatino, Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.5px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
The thing is, it’s what Phelps said: <em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Stay in the pool.</em></div>
<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #171212; font-family: Bookman, Palatino, Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.5px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
Michael Phelps said that the way he trained to be one of the greatest athletes of all time — was to stay in the pool longer than anyone else.</div>
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To stay at it when everyone else got out. To stay focused when you’d love to be distracted<em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">. To do the next thing when it’s not the easiest thing.</em> To not flip over to Facebook or turn on the TV or check Twitter or pop into email.</div>
<div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #171212; font-family: Bookman, Palatino, Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.5px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
The most successful are the ones most focused and the greats are greatly focused. <em style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">There is never any fruit without focus.</em></div>
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</span><br />
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As a new friend of mine always says, "it's the small things, done daily, that will alter the trajectory of your life".<br />
<br />
Be love. Be consistent.<br />
<br />
Now this video folks, this is my kind of worship!<br />
Crank this thing and try not to get happy.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/onomxuf5Cns?rel=0" width="640"></iframe><br />
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love y'all!Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-40116491508627062332012-09-02T23:46:00.000-07:002012-09-02T23:46:08.094-07:00this n that n stuff<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5540.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
this is in our kitchen. i love it. i made it. i found the wording on Pintrest and sprayed the frame, then painted the glass with chalk board paint. it was super easy. otherwise, i would not have been able to make it. remember, i'm still in Kindergarten when it comes to DIYs. this one was totally PreK.<br />
aside from that, it's so true. every day. i love each one of them. while it's not very hard. it's a choice. and i choose love. every.day.</div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
as you can see here.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5576.jpg" /><br />
we lost our first tooth at our house. we have no idea where it ended up mind you. the thing was just busted off and gone. and the boy had no clue how it happened or when. so he did have to go in and be put under to have the remainder of the little thing pulled out. he was a trooper and actually told his dad afterward that he loved it! what i love is the bugg up his nose. what 5 year old isn't complete without one of those hangin out!<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5622.jpg" /><br />
ok so then he goes and breaks me down to let him play the little game (DS game) by drawing this total<br />
"of course you can have whatever you want for drawing me this picture" picture. he says, "Mom, this is for you. This is our family. I drew you the biggest because you are my favorite girl in the world." Of course you can have the DS, sweetest boy in the whole world! (not including your father).<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5618.jpg" /><br />
gunny sack races are all the rage these days.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5599.jpg" /><br />
chase knows how to rage.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5590.jpg" /><br />
my neah doing her thing. notice chase and lyd in the background. lyd is such mama to him. they are such good buds.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5587.jpg" /><br />
this is what Leighton thinks of uncle Aarons scarry pink panther campfire story.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5494.jpg" /><br />
apparently, they decided this is how they should watch their movie. obviously. laying under couch cushions has been the newest rage for preschoolers for weeks now! at least mine anyway. i missed the memo.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5558.jpg" /><br />
airplane park!<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5422.jpg" /><br />
Beckett is all about the aircraft.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5401.jpg" /><br />
good friends take you on pontoon cruises just for the fun of it.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5391.jpg" /><br />
lake + sunset + friend time = goodness.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5392.jpg" /><br />
a future tennis pro, perhaps?<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5394.jpg" /><br />
that moment when you open up the drawer in your stove to get the pan for chocolate chip cookies and you go....."and that's where Beckett put his bottle 3 days ago!"<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5564.jpg" /><br />
marrying a great man 7 years ago. and being married to an even better man 7 years later.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5554.jpg" /><br />
this guy was hanging out in our salon parking lot a few weeks back. we were there for some snazzy haircuts. the snapper was there for perhaps some........fingers? seriously, have you ever danced with a snapper before? these things get up on their back legs and shimmy around like no ones business.<br />
i was really freakin out when I took Leighton out to get a closer view of this guy. he should be called Snapper the Satan Turtle.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5451.jpg" /><br />
This is how we do afternoons.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5563.jpg" /><br />
Still thanking my husband for building this square of pure awesome for our boys and their mommy who sometimes needs to get like one thing done every so often.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5566.jpg" /><br />
<br />
because every little boy needs a dork for a mom.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5398.jpg" /><br />
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rockin the drum set.<br />
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<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5447.jpg" /><br />
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rockin the cookie dough. and licking too.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5747.jpg" /><br />
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time with friends and their cute babies is oh so good.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5683.jpg" /><br />
<br />
raising superheroes.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5660.jpg" /><br />
requires a Supermom.<br />
<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5661.jpg" /><br />
<br />
ending a great week alone by the fire, talkin all things good yet to come.<br />
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<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/IMG_5707.jpg" /><br />
<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3333366417331831589.post-70873830912984602632012-08-29T00:57:00.002-07:002012-08-29T00:57:39.959-07:00newborn photography and a horse dogThe summer has flown by. Due to the amazing ease and perty darn descent built in camera on my iphone, my trusty old DSLR has been on a bit of a vacation.<br />
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Dont' worry, I still have many, many big boy DSLR pictures. Many more than a normal human being probably.<br />
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But, just not as many as I could have. You know, like, I could have 14 bagillion. I don't have that many.<br />
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At least I don't think I do. I'm sure my husband disagrees.<br />
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Anywho, I did manage to bust it out when our neighbor stopped over with her newborn little girl at the very beginning of summer. It was an instant knee-jerk reaction. Tiny baby at my house = me going into a fit of newborn photography rage.<br />
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Here is their newest little bundle of little girl sweetness.<br />
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<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/d.jpg" /><br />
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pretty pretty seriously precious.<br />
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<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/c.jpg" /><br />
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pretty pretty perfect.<br />
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<img src="http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/shannonjoyheick/newer%20album/a.jpg" /><br />
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pretty, pretty.<br />
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and what's pretty sad is that this awesome little neighbor family of ours went and got this wild idea that they could just go get a new job fresh out of pharmacy school and move away from us! so we have been missing our favorite neighbors this summer. the fires have been a little low in attendance as we try to convince other neighbors that we really are pretty awesome human beings. plus we own a fluffy dog that resembles a horse. that's a huge selling point i'm thinking. horse dogs are all the rage.<br />
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miss you guys, S&T& family!<br />
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<br />Shannonheickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09561040810292064595noreply@blogger.com0