Wednesday, March 3, 2010

A few of my favorite things...

Just came across this little diddy,
which {insert huge sigh of relief} still makes me smile...
..
.
Quite possibly my favorite picture that I've ever taken!
.
Sometimes,
when I least expect it...
amid all the underwear wrestling...
the bumps and dents in our walls...
the disturbingly unexplainable "mystery" bruises...
the constant coat of caked mud on their shoes...
the stained sleeves they borrow and use as napkins...
the wall murals painted in sharpie and/or white-out correction tape (Umm... yeah)...
the glitter glue I'll never get out from between the floor boards in the Craft Room...
the incessant arsenal of whirling plastic weaponry...
the indian burns and purple nurples...
the super-hero dress ups...
the little growling dinosaurs...
the blanket forts and bubble baths...
the entire cast of miniature 'CARS' cars which magically drive themselves all around our house...
the Legos... {insert exasperated sigh}... oh, all those darn LEGOS...
the skateboards and scooters and bikes and rollerblades and ripsticks...
the crayons, paintbrushes, colored pencils and markers...
the dog-eared UNO cards...
and otterpops...
Amid Diego and Sponge Bob...
Zack & Cody, Drake & Josh...
Mario Kart and Lego Star Wars on the Wii...
Piano lessons and Pine Wood Derbys...
the grubby smears and fingerprints...
Basketball Courts...
Soccer Fields...
Football Turf...
Batting Cages and Baseball Diamonds...
Bouldering Gear and rock climbing harnesses...
various scattered ski paraphernalia...
the beloved Webkinz and super-powered Sock Monkeys...
the mountainous piles of homework...
the pirate eye-patches and the nerf dart guns...
the CTR rings and zip-up neckties...
the holes in... well... what DOESN'T have them these days?
Yes, amid merciless pillow fights until someone cries... (and that would usually be Trevan)...
the never-ending grass-stained jeans...
Amid "I Love you Stinky Face" and "Where the Wild Things Are"...
the bubblegum tape and the pixie sticks...
and pants that are too short... too quickly...
Somewhere...
Sometimes...
Every once in a while...
I get a glimpse of the amazing, incredible men these boys are growing to be.
And I find myself in the presence of greatness.

53 comments:

renae said...

kind of scary, isn't it? when i get that glimpse of my children and who they will become, i get the lump. then that is inevitably followed up with the thought "i have to do my best to NOT screw them up!" i try to be worthy of them every day...

Jade (Perth WA) said...

How you do it Sarah I will never know. I have two little girls aged 4 and almost 2 and sometimes do not have enough time in the day. With four boys I imagine you have none to yourself! You deserve a medal! :)

Lindsey (Hawaii) said...

I love seeing your boys- I have 4 myself, same initials as all your boys, just different ages (Trevor-7, Devin-4, Kyle-2, Bryson-6 mos.) Thanks for sharing your story and your family, and we're so happy for your outcome with the traumatic experience that brought me to your blog.

Jessica said...

Absolutely beautiful. This post brought tears to my eyes (as this blog has almost everytime I open it) I have one little boy (Michael- 1 1/2) I read this and see our future with all these messes and also see it flying so quickly by.

I have no doubt your boys will turn into wonderful young men. Just by reading this blog you can tell what amazing parents you and your husband are. Your boys are obviously so loved, and apparently have no shortage of toys whatsoever!

God bless you and your wonderful family, I am so thankful everytime I open this blog and see what a miracle little Bronson is. My heart ached for you in the begininng and everytime I read your blog it made me hold my little guy a little tighter. Ive learned so much from you. I too was guilty of running to grab pj's while Mikey bathed. Never again. Thank you so much.

Morgan said...

they are SUCH handsome boys. seeing that picture actually makes me really excited to have my own house full of boys come may, when we will be expecting our 3rd boy. ours is not quite to the craziness of your household, though believe me, there is plenty of craziness, and will soon be more. i agree with you though. i too sometimes catch glimpses of the greatness you speak of. growing up with all sisters, which i loved, i thought i wanted a house full of girls, but i am finding that little boys are the best! (not biased at all ;) i love all their sweet craziness and find myself hoping that number four (whenever that happens) will be a boy too. something about raising righteous little boys that will hopefully turn into righteous men and wonderful husbands, it makes me really happy. thanks for this post!

sisterlu said...

Now you went and did it and made me teary first thing in the morning! :-) I hope every mama feels that way once in a while. Thanks for sharing.

Anonymous said...

So well said, and very very true!!

Laura said...

I am a future mom - no kids on the way yet, but my husband and I hope and pray for some in the future. Reading posts like this make the excitement about what is ahead grow even greater. While I know that there are plenty of bumps along the road of parenthood, I hope that I too can view it all in the light of how precious the time is and how fast things change, and soak up every bit of it all; no matter how messy, crazy, and wild it is.

I am so in love with your writing style!

Jenni said...

THis post made me :) thanks for sharing your wonderful boys...I have 3 of my own and oh, how I LOVE all those things too....boys are so very very special! :)
thestoryofusx8.blogspot.com

Kim said...

I can relate to every single line of this post....I have three boys (and three girls, too) that have similar interests and ideas.
When life gets so crazy, it's hard to remember the end goal. Thanks for sharing your focus with us. It's a good reminder.
Someone once said to me "you may be raising a prophet."

Kelly said...

Love this post, Sara. It hits home in so many ways. And let me just say...I'm so glad we're not the only family with marker and crayons, permanent ink, and LOTS more on the walls of our house! :) Thanks for reminding me not to be so critical of it. It's part of life and GETTING to have these little guys WITH us! In that perspective, I wouldn't change it for the world. I, too, will often look at my kids and wonder what they'll do someday. I can't wait to see!

mCat said...

I have followed you for a little while now. I'm friends with Amber Stubbs, Tiburon Erickson and Casi Blanchard.
Your story has amazed me.

This post touched my heart particularly as I am the mother of 3 boys. All now adults. To be the mother of worthy priesthood holders is a blessing that has no words to describe. I can't even tell you how wonderful it is when they grow old enough and lay their handds on your heads and offer a blessing. Especially in their mission language. It's a special time indeed.

Keep inspiring us!

Jessica Smith said...

Sara,

I have been following your blog since my aunt forwarded an e-mail to me. She knows someone related to you, I'm not really sure the connection. Anyway, I cried as I read your blog about what had happened and when I finished that entry where you mentioned holding on to what really is important, I was holding my precious three month old little girl, Savannah. My tears hit the top of her head, and I promised her to always remember that she is my little reflection of heaven. I've rejoiced with you as your little one has been restored to you, and my husband would always ask about an update. Now, reading this entry, I cried again, because this is one of the most beautiful things I've ever read. Standing in the presense of greatness! Yes, aren't we! Every time I stare into my baby's eyes I'm reminded that she is a blessing from God, since I have done nothing in my life to deserve her. Thank you so much for sharing your life..and even though I don't know you, I feel close and touched by your precious family!

Kristen said...

I love it, you just described my life to a tee! Love all of your little boys, that is all I have as well and it is such a cute picture of all of them! I just smile when I read your blog knowing that you still do have all of them and they are all just fine.

Anonymous said...

As a mother of 4 boys myself (and my sweet girl who finelly came!!) i need to hear this kind of thing daily!!! You are incredible and I have loved every delicious second of your blog!! Thank you for sharing your beautiful thoughts and spirit with us who REALLY need to hear it!! :)

Anonymous said...

Sara--You're right. They're in the presence of greatness to having you for their mom. It's really true. --Carrie

Anonymous said...

Wow. It sounds like your boys are waaaay over scheduled if you have THAT much going on. I'm exhausted reading it!

Anonymous said...

You have such handsome boys! I, like you and everyone else, am so happy to have a happy ending to your ordeal. I started reading your blog when my cousin mentioned it on her blog. I cried and cried tears for your family - first, they were tears of sadness and then they were tears of happiness. I really shouted out when I read that your little boy was going to be okay.

Thank you for sharing your experience - for sharing your testimony and your faith. Your experience has put a lot of things in perspective for me.

Again - you have such handsome boys! You'll be fighting to keep the girls away!!!

Melanee said...

Sarah,
I read your blog and prayed for you son. I have started adding all the helpless children and their parents into our family prayers. They could all use a little prayer. I just wanted to say that I still read your blog, because of the spirit you have. You are so positive and wear your emotions on your sleeve. Everyone can read how much you love all of your sons, and feel it too. I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for the "little things".

Mama Bear said...

Thanks for the daily joy tears and laughs of agreement! :)

Britney said...

Oh how I love little boys. Messes and all.

Kierstin said...

You truly are a fantastic writer. I have loved reading your blog, it's inspiring!

Anonymous said...

We get the picture!

Jenny said...

This post cracked me up....I think every line reminded me of my three boys.BoYs bOyS BoYs gotta love um :)NEVER a dull moment thats for sure. I have been telling my hubby lately if we have one more it had better be a boy...i wouldnt know what to do with a girl at this point :)

stacey O'Connell said...

Amen Sarah! I love this post because I can relate and it all just makes me smile and brings me joy. Boys rule and girls.... well... I don't actually believe it... but I giggle every time my boys give me the line.... they will learn who really drools... he he....
much love and praise for you family!
Stacey O'Connell (MN)

Nickie said...

You're amazing, that is all I have to say. What lucky boys to have you as their mommy.
Loves!
-Nick

Camron and Lonna Connolly said...

I do not know you, but I know this . . . you are an amazing writer! Your words PEIRCE the heart! I balled in bed one night as I read your words to my husband. The way you write is amazing, Yes, but the story you tell is even more amazing! How I am grateful that I was able to stumble upon you blog. It has indescribably blessed my life. Thank you for your talent. May the Lord continue to bless you and your family with His tender Mercies!
http://www.youtube.com/mormonmessages#p/a/1/3B4El4B9LVw

Unknown said...

Oh my! This brought tears to my eyes. The days we have with our children are numbered and it truely is these moments that we will miss one day. You have quite the way with words and I love to read your blog. Though I do have to admit this is my favorite blog of yours. Keep up the great writing :)

Heidi said...

I am also a mom of 4 boys & I absolutely LOVED reading this post. Thanks... you're awesome. :0)

team wilson said...

I am also a stranger who has been touched by your words. You do have an incredible gift of writing. Somehow, you can put into words what so many of us feel and wish we could put words to. I LOVED your "leftovers" post. Thanks for being willing to let so many of us who you don't even know be blessed by your sweet spirit and talent.
I am so glad your little B is doing okay. My heart just broke for you. From someone who lost her brother at a young age because of a mistake of a parent. I applaud the way you accept and own your accidental mistake, yet choose to use it as a teaching tool for others. Your kids will thank you one day and be in awe at how you handled everything.

team wilson said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Mary said...

They are handsome boys. It's such a joy to be a mother to boys and I am realizing more and more each day what an honor it is. I've always believed that more than raising boys we are raising men and that God must have a lot of faith in us to allow us to have such a role.

Mary

Right Girl said...

Handsome picture! And we are raising men, aren't we? I've thought about that myself, more than once.

Amy said...

your family reminds me so much of mine.. i have 4 handsome boys, much like yours, and we were blessed to add that baby girl to the mix a week after bronson was born! I have been reading your blog for a few weeks now (from the r house) and have never commented... here is what I have to say to you: we had an experience with my second son where his life also balanced in a precarious state. his breathing stopped and a police officer took to long. luckily he started again on his own before things got really bad. it feels terrible. it feels like your life is over and your world is ripped apart. Cut yourself a break.. NO ONE expects you to be 100%. continue healing at your speed. this was a major life change. Thank you for sharing... we get apathetic in daily chidl care sometimes. you have done much good and your story will save many lives. thank you for the courage to share. We keep your family in pour prayers!

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Janae Moss said...

I'm a little nervous that I ADDED to the self moving car category!! I warned Jon, but we couldn't help it :) OH how I can relate, except my list is all girl stuff!! I will have to compile it for my own laughs!
Luvs.

Melissa said...

I keep coming back to your blog nearly every day. Seems I am surrounded by incredibly sad and ridiculously horrible stories of little ones lately. I find incredible comfort in your story in knowing that it has a happy if not miraculous ending. Thank you for sharing it.

April said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
April said...

I absolutely love your blog! I have been checking in every day since February 1st! Thank you so much for sharing!
Thought this blog might help you on your quest for perfection.. (you are dang close to there!) :)

http://thepioneerwoman.com/

Her simple recipes with step by step photos make cooking far less intimidating. Hope you enjoy!

Thanks for sharing!!

April

Brenda said...

Have you heard the song Beautiful Boys by Celine Dion? It is a favorite, if you have boys, you will love it!

I'm so happy for you!

From a mother of FOUR boys!
I can relate.
Thank you for your amazing words.

Unknown said...

what an beautiful family. glad to see that everyone is healthy and happy. Your families story is very touching and an eye openers for all mom/parents.

shannonsarmywifelife.blogspot.com said...

I just discovered this blog...on a mommy board that I am on. I have cried so much for you today and wanted to let you know that it is so blatantly obvious that you love your boys so much. I cannot say that I know how you feel, but I can tell you that all moms do things that are not perfect. It just happens.. I truly hope your little one is getting better and better every day. (((HUGS))) from this Army wife.

Becca and Jared Anderson said...

Ahhhhhhh----so cute, and so precious! Keep writing, we love hearing from you!

Melissa said...

You don't know me but I have been following you since the accident and praying for your sweet boy. I love your writing and like the glimpse into a life with 4 boys. I am a mom of 4 girls. I don't know what purple nurples are.? Your boys are darling. Thanks for sharing.

Synergy Girl said...

Oh man...all I can say is...LEGOS...WHY THE LEGOS?? With three boys here...I think it's the LEGOS that stress me out the most...walking upstairs to find all 3000 of them dumped by my proud little guy who of course loves to spread them all around....BUT, life would be SOOO dull without it all!! Someday...I know I will miss the LEGOS...someday...

Janae Moss said...

haha! Oh man, I just responded to a post you wrote in 2008 because I spelled your blog wrong!! I was wondering WHY you went to "fools gold"...and how, it isn't even in the theatre's...duhh 8)

Jenn Granum said...

Your life sounds all too familiar to mine! Isn't having all boys the coolest? The noise, dirt, rough housing can drive me crazy but at the end of the day they are all mommas boys. SO precious! I just LOVE boys! We are done having kids but honestly, if we did have another one, I would probably want another boy! Your four are just darling.

Unknown said...

I LOVE that picture. What a bunch of handsome young boys. I have a balance of two boys and two girls so I get the wrestling admist the drama queens. But I wouldn't change a thing.

Anonymous said...

I thought of your little boy this a.m. and decided to check your blog to see how he was doing (I hadn't checked it since first hearing of the disaster and saying prayers on his behalf). I just want to tell you how EXTREMELY happy I am for your family. What a miracle!!! No doubt Heavenly Father has heard all the many prayers. I just can't even express how wonderful it is to see him doing so well. CONGRATS!!!

Heidi

Anonymous said...

I am reading this article second time today, you have to be more careful with content leakers. If I will fount it again I will send you a link

Anonymous said...

You have to express more your opinion to attract more readers, because just a video or plain text without any personal approach is not that valuable. But it is just form my point of view

leigh said...

What beautiful boys! (I really should say handsome young men, shouldn't I. ;) )

Erin said...

Sara - I came across your story on the msn.com website and was so happy to see it had a happy ending. I remember you as such a sweetheart at Valley and Granger. I wish your beautiful family the very best :)
Erin Campbell (Beck)