Keeping Up With the Renfroes

A new post? Is that girl still blogging?...

2009-05-28T09:56:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I said I didn't abandon this blog, and I did. The blog hiatus was due, in part, to coupon blogs. But, for the most part, it has been due to my wretchedly sinful heart. If you are interested, I will ramble on a minute...

Originally, I began blogging to document my kiddos lives. I am not a scrapbooker, and I had hoped to be able to keep up with the kids lives, the funny things they say and do, etc. The blog came in clutch after our computer crashed earlier this year. It kept the earliest photos of the baby. (Yeah!) I was keeping track of the kiddos and what they were doing, what we were doing...purpose fulfilled, right?

Well, when ya'll started telling me ya'll were reading, I started overthinking what I was typing. "Does this sound good? What can I say that will be funny, cute, or loveable?" Sounds stupid, right? I am embarassed that I am even typing this. My stupid pride.

It isn't this blog that is causing me to be prideful, or boastful, or significant to the world, or any other number of my many MANY other vices. It is just that I am. I am all of those things. I LOVE to find purpose in what others think about me. I love to find purpose in what others think about my family. And, (gasp) my husband and children.

I knew that I needed to step back. Over the last month, there has been so much that I have wanted to put on here. We have been a busy, busy family. But, everytime I would begin a post, that subtle (and sneaky) pride would creep in.

Please don't hear me say that this is anyone else's motivation for blogging. I just know my heart. I know that I want people to see and love the squeak-y clean, neat, fun, and dang near perfect Renfroes.

On a closer look at my heart and motives, deep down, what I really REALLY long for you blog readers to see is Jesus. If I can't portray that we are definite sinners in desperate need of a mighty Savior, then I am doing my family a serious injustice. Because we are...And, if I can't get over myself for long enough to fill you in (non-boastfully) about what is going on in our lives, well, then this isn't worth reading at all, right?

As this school year has drawn to a close, I have found myself evaluating everything. Was I a 'good' wife? a 'good' mom? a 'good' teacher? a 'good' employee? a 'good' student? any changes that need to be made in my time? our family's time? so on...this 'blog-pride is one of the things that I have noticed via-evaluation. I needed to 'confess' this in order to move on. Now that I got that off of my heart and mind, I will post some pics soon.

On another note, I haven't been blogging, but, I have been reading. I read the blogs of almost everyone I know, and those that I don't. I am so so SO encouraged by my friends (both real life and virtual life, bloggers, commenters, and non-bloggers) lives. I am so encouraged by my friend's faith, families, love for Jesus, and love for others. To those of you who read this (often crazy rant) I am grateful. I am thankful that we have had the privilidge of wonderful God-fearing friends and families. You guys are the best.

It's not that I am NOT blogging....

2009-04-06T18:19:00.002-05:00

I am just reading. Last month came in like a lion and went out like a lamb. I had a crazy, CRAZY month with grad school. But, thankfully, I am finishing that up now. I will say, I have really enjoyed reading other people's blogs. So, in an effort to catch up on my reading, I have put the blog on hiatus. Also, I have become slightly obsessed with coupon blogs. Crazy, huh? I used to think it was such a waste of time. You know, that's a whole lot of trouble for 55 cents off. But, after a few transactions in which I walked out of Walgreens feeling like I robbed the place, I am hooked. I may need therapy (not of the retail sort) later.

Wood, Hay, and Stubble

2009-03-03T19:52:00.011-06:00

This is a picture taken this past December (2008) of a home swept away by Hurricane Katrina. Thankfully, my family, my childhood home, and my extended family's homes were safe , but, we all learned valuable lessons about wood, hay, and stubble.

"Wood, Hay, and Stubble" the title of one of the many conversations that I have with my wonderful father-in-law that usually begins or ends with him saying, "This is not a lecture."

This is a picture of my huge, HUGE gas logs. I think they were the biggest they made in 1971. I am talking about things that burn in this post. As you can see from this photo--these do not burn. I am going to go ahead and classify my HUGE gas logs as "wood, hay, and stubble"(triple violation) as they are USELESS, dangerous ,and UGLY!

What he is calling "wood, hay, and stubble" are things that burn.The things that you think or do that do not really matter...Things that take up your time, energy, resources, but aren't eternal...Things that add up and cause you to be and feel so busy, that you don't have time for the things that matter. My father-in-law would say the wood, hay, and stubble tends to "choke-out" the important things. Because wood, hay, and stubble demand your attention NOW, you put off the important things. Because wood, hay, and stubble promise that if you just take a few more minutes concentrating on them, you will be able to focus better on more important things/produce the desired result/have them out of the way. Actually, now that I think about it, wood, hay, and stubble promises a whole host of things. But, the promises burn right along with the wood, the hay, and the stubble.

This is a picture of the playhouse that Al built. Certainly, I am not suggesting that we burn the playhouse down, however, it is wood, and I realized earlier that I have never put these pictures up!

When he begins his "wood, hay and stubble lecture," my father-in-law is usually insightfully referencing something that I have said "Yes" to doing that I later have regretted. The "good" things that take up my time and take the place of the BEST things.

Moving the playhouse out of the shop, and to it's current location. Did I mention that Al built this out of lumber that he milled himself out of a log he bought from a timber yard? I probably didn't because that would be bragging on my husband, and his multi-talented & genius self, and that would definitely be wood, hay, and stubble!

(Do as I say, not as I do...just kidding)

Here are some thoughts, and things I am learning about wood, hay, and stubble.

I have been deeply encouraged by Shelli's New years list, and have referenced it time and again.

After Seleta's post about purpose and simplicity, she and I exchanged a series of encouraging emails. At the conclusion of these, I was encouraged to try to notice my kiddos throughout the day, REALLY learn where they are at right now, and not just pacify them with more wood, hay, and stubble.

My friend Hope, who lost a child this summer, has been a wealth of encouragement for me on this. She has taught me so much about living life, raising these kiddies, and just BEING right now.

I have a host of real life friends from whom I have learned a ton over the past few weeks. My friend that encouraged me to pray diligently for forty days that I might gain deeper insight into the death and Resurrection of the Savior. My friend that reminded me that quality time is the most important time I can give my children. And, my friend that has been so deeply moved to encourage my family over these last few weeks, that she has left her comfort zone offering advise and scripture in a host of encouraging emails and phone calls.

If I knew how to create one of those "Best of the Week" pages, I totally would include some cool picture to represent these things in a visually pleasing manner. These are the things that I hope will take the place of some of my wood, hay, and stubble.

Of course, I have lots of things that I want to take the place of the wood, hay and stubble. These are just in my "Best of the Week" category.

On Sunday, my pastor said something at the end of his sermon that reminded me of the truths of Wood, Hay, and Stubble. He said, "Are you looking around you, are you looking to other's examples to follow and not the Lord?" I do this all of the time without even realizing it, for the most part. I think about how organized I used to be before I had children, and this is what my playroom looks like. Isn't that looking around me instead of looking to Him?

Just Kidding, this isn't my playroom, just a corner of it. I am having to use filed pictures and not current photos as a result of the fact that the playroom is so messy, I can't find the camera cord!!!!

Or, I think about the friends that I have who's jobs have been unaffected by pro ration/the recession. (YIKES!) I won' t even begin to list the ongoing projects that I am doing or re-doing in my mind, and in real life! These are just a few of the million thoughts that keep my mind busy, and off of the things that matter. Any thoughts on this?

Just Not the Yellow Snow

2009-03-01T16:01:00.012-06:00

For those of you who do not live on my street, the title of this post is in reference to the fact that my boys have a strong aversion to a restroom--preferring to pee off of my front porch every morning.

For my mom's sake, and for the most part, I have tried to tell them that this is not an acceptable practice everywhere.

Their dad chimes in, "Well, it is in Pike County."

Thanks for the support, Al.

In New Orleans, this is a violation that is called, "Contamination of the Water Supply." (I know, that is a weird name, but, only in NOLA do you get weird cop code like that!) You can spend a night in the slammer for it. I know you probably won't be arrested as a 5 year old, but, as my brother would tell you, it isn't as cute to a police officer when you are 17.

Like most of the Southeast, we woke up this morning to snow. Not a lot of snow at first, but, seeing as it hasn't snowed here since 1993, it was enough.

The kids wanted to go outside and play before church.

Elly just filled me in, the last snow was 2002.

Every Sunday morning, Al and I begin our day looking for leverage to get these kids hiney's moving faster than a snail's pace.

We offer lots of things: money, cars, pixie stixs for breakfast, "All, if, you will just hurry up and get in the tub!"

Usually we make it to church with only one of us in tears (Al), one of us "not feeling very church-y" (Me) and the dog babysitting 2 of our 4 kiddos. (I said, "Come on, or, I am going to leave you!")

All of it is true but the dog-babysitter part.

This morning the snow was our incentive.

The kids wanted to go outside and make a snowball.

And , they just couldn't resist a taste.

That's the part where Al's "It's-my-house-and-they-can-pee-off-the-porch-if-they-want-to" philosophy took a leak. (pun intended)

The kids were instructed to only eat the snow off of the fence.

When Addie wanted to know "Why?" I told her to ask Daddy.

He explained, "Only that snow tastes good. You know Sadie uses the yard as her potty."

Sure, blame it on the dog. She's the only babysitter that hasn't run away yet!

(Somebody please say something about how pitiful Sadie looks in this snow. If this picture had a tag line it would be: Look at our dog, she's freezing and wet and has been hit by like 15 snowballs. Sadie obviously didn't think the snow was as cool as the kids did. I guess we need to get her one of those dog sweaters for the next snow day. Poor dog. Not only does she have to live with us, and baby-sit for free, we make her go out in the cold snow, sans-dog sweater, just for a picture!)

Caroline's One Year Pics

2009-02-27T09:00:00.005-06:00

Wes did an amazing job of capturing my sweet angel!

Great is Thy Faithfulness

2009-02-26T08:15:00.009-06:00

Great is thy faithfulness

Oh God my father

There is no shadow of turning with thee

Thou changest not

Thy compassions they fail not

As thou hast beenThou forever will be

Summer and Winter

Springtime and Harvest

Sun, moon and stars in their courses above

Join in all nature in manifold witness

To thy great faithfulnessMercy and love

Great is Thy faithfulness

Morning by morning new mercies I see

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided

Great is Thy faithfulnessLord unto me

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth

Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide

Your strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow

Blessings all mine with ten thousand aside

Great is Thy faithfulness

Great is Thy faithfulnessMorning by morning

New mercies I see

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided

Great is Thy faithfulnessLord unto me

Great is thy Faithfulness

Great is Thy faithfulness

Morning by morning new mercies I see

All I have needed thy hand hath provided

Great is Thy faithfulness

Lord Unto me.

Photos taken by Wes Roberts

Hymn: written by Thomas O. Chisholm (1866-1960)

Have Some Tea, It's on the House

2009-02-25T08:45:00.000-06:00

Don't be jealous of Dumplin's tri-ponytails. I came home from work and Lois had bathed, dressed, and "hair-did." Dumplin was lovin' her new do. Lola was jealous.

Crafting With Tiny People

2009-02-24T09:01:00.000-06:00

Momma sure does love a good craft time with the kiddos. However finding a craft that meets the crafting needs of myself and the age ranges of all of my kids is a hard thing to do. I love doing simple crafts with them before dinner.

The other day, I found this craft and had to try it. It meets all the general before dinner criteria and as an added bonus, it is a rather clean project and even the baby can do it with supervision. (read: Dumplin' don't put the feathers in your mouth)

That is just contact paper turned sticky side up. after they are finished, you can put another peice on top to seal it.

Other takes on this: Do the same thing with leaves, fern fronds, and (flat) things you find outside. Also, you could separate warm and cool colors and do a collage like hers.

Are Ya'll Ready?

2009-02-23T10:17:00.008-06:00

I know that these aren't typical Renfroe posts, however, these are a reader request, and I gotta keep em' happy. If one (of the three of ya'll) who read this wants crafts, who am I to stand in your way? Haha!

I did have a few encouraging emails this week from mommas who were inspired to get their boxes together. I hope your kiddos have as much fun as mine have!

....

Remember that the quilfications for these crafts are that they are quick and to the point. My kids usually do these type of activities before dinner, and in between whining for ring pops for supper.

.....

Ok, the caterpillar is just rolled clay with pipe cleaner and beads for antenaes. The baby can't really do this one without 100 % of my attention. (Clay is just SO delicious!) So, I gave her fruitloops and yarn. The yarn was not so yummy, (she learned quick) but the fruit loops were!

ST helped her to string the fruitloops. This was easy and quick. Dumplin' thought it was snack time and not craft time, so that reminded me that the same activity could be done with a mellon-baller and toothpics for the older kids.

.....

The activity below was one we worked on this weekend. I will post our pictures later. This was a great activity for kids Mam's age (2). I just gave each of the kids several papers and encouraged them to paint one page, all one color. Dumplin' had colored construction paper and a paintbrush with only water on it. ST was in charge of her cup. He dipped her brush when it was dry.

.....

Dumplin's paint brush was a brand new plastic one. For her age it is all about cause and effect.

The favorite part of this activity was tearing the paper up. You can read more about the activity here.

Have fun. I will post on a few more crafts tommorrow.

Momma's Tackle Box

2009-02-20T09:36:00.000-06:00

Remember this tackle box? I wanted to tell you about it. In this box I have basically everything that I need to do a quickie on demand or rainy day craft with the kids.

The box idea, I believe, dates back to my super-organized friend Amy. She is FABULOUS at

#1-organizing

#2-coming up with projects for kids

#3-simplifying everything

The Renfroes actually went for a while where this was our standard birthday party gift.

What's in the box:
yarn

fuzzy balls

different glitter glue combos (already mixed up)

modeling clay

feathers

colored popsicle sticks

stickers

watercolor paints

small tempera paints

paint brushes

pipe cleaners

confetti

Hole punch

Kid friendly sissors & crazy cutters

glue sticks

etc.

It has been really "well loved" at our house I keep a vinyl tablecloth right near the box in my mommy sized craft (box/closet) I also keep the kids paint shirts, crayons, elmer's glue and markers there. And on a seperate shelf is paper and canvas for the kids. The reason I keep these "out" of the box is they require more supervision. The thing about the box is they can use it anytime, not just when mommy feels like doing art.

Later, I will fill you in on some of our fun craft-box projects!

Just Like Me!

2009-02-18T20:52:00.010-06:00

This boy. This boy is becoming a little man right before my very eyes. This growing up thing has totally taken me by surprise. I know, that sounds silly. I should totally expect that he is going to think and do and grow and grow and grow. However, it never ceases to amaze me. I am totally amazed by how much he looks just like me, but acts just like his daddy. Truth be told, this is something that I have wished for all of my children.

Their daddy is the most amazing human being alive today. (totally not a biased opinion;)) He is obviously an amazing husband and father. He is honest and sincere. He is loyal and trustworthy. He is kind and compassionate. He is caring and gracious. He is hardworking. He is a natural leader. He loves the Lord better than anyone I have ever known. He (by the Lord's grace) has his eyes set on the Kingdom of Heaven. It is his hearts desire for the nations to see and to know the Lord. He works tirelessly for our family and for these things. Al shared his testimony at church on Sunday night. His story begans when he was 5 (5?!?!) that really isn't all that amazing to some, as that was the age that several of my friends became Christians as well. But, to someone like me, who, had to put grace to the test (so I thought) a 5 year old Christian is an amazing thing. I have hoped that my children's stories will be more like their daddy's and less like mine.

I have prayed and prayed that ST would come to know the Lord early in His life. As a matter of fact, after I became a Believer (in college), I began to pray that my children would come to know the Lord at an early age. Oh, how His grace is sufficient for me, and for my children. ST has had a series of conversations with us about asking Jesus into his heart. Over time he has asked us questions like, "How does someone KNOW that they are a Christian?" He asked us "What does a Christian act like? How is that different than what I act like?" "Whenever Jesus comes into your heart, what changes?" He has a five year old understanding of sin. (So do I.) He, on more than one occassion, has felt a desire to leave the life of sin and death behind. And, last night with deepest sincerity, he was obviously thinking about these things. He came in and asked to talk to Al and I. He had decided, on his own, that it was time to give his life to the Lord.

Now, you may wonder why I am blogging about this. Other than the fact that there is no greater joy that I can think of. The reason is two-fold:

#1- this is my blog and that is what I want to talk about (just kidding)

#2- I wanted to share this book with ya'll. Does anyone know this book? Now, I certianly don't believe that this book has any special powers, however, right there (pg. 30- God is our Father) is the lesson in which my husband was reading with Papa and Granna when he asked Jesus into his heart. It now has a new date and name written in it on the lesson on the Holy Spirit pg. 34. I think the book is pretty cool. Not just because of the significance of it, but because it is great for really young children.

Here is what the back says:

Family Devotions for parents with young children. Especailly designed to meet the needs and excite the hearts of the very young. Each lesson is short, less than 5 minutes, simple, only one idea, repeated daily, is introduced each week, and meaningful, Christian doctrine and ethics are emphasized throughout the book.

Devotions include a scripute verse, brief story, simple q&a, family discussion and prayer.

The title is Special Times With God it is written by David and Naomi Shibley. Anyway, I wanted to share this with those of you who are interested.

I asked Al what we do next. He said for us to look for signs of sincerity and for opportunities to help him grow. Here's where my heart just smiles. Al caught ST asking Taye and Mam if they wanted to ask Jesus in their hearts. He said "Jesus is living in my heart now, don't you want him to live in your heart too? See, Jesus can live in your heart, too. JUST LIKE ME." There is a lot to learn from this. We are all just one beggar telling the other beggars where to find bread.

There's Something FISHY Going On Around Here!

2009-02-13T19:06:00.009-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the Renfroe's. This year I made Valentine's Day surpises and fun follow a fishing theme for our little "(great)CATCH of the day" kiddos.

We had a blast making these little fish. The body, tail, fins and eyes are all different sized hearts. This is a great activity for kids of all ages. Older kids can cut the hearts themselves. Just give the younger kids a glue stick and they can go to town!

The kids all received tackle boxes filled with treats. The gummy worms, sweedish fish, nerds

(fish food) and gummy sea creatures were a hit!

.
Here are some of the outsides of the boxes with little fish magnet games on the tops:

Dumplin' loved her tackle box filled with goldfish crackers. It said "We are hooked on You."

For the dinner table, we also made the little fish for the goldfish bowl centerpeices. Letting the kids help make the fish was a fun "hint" for what their Valentine treats would be.

For dinner, we are going to have fish-sticks, shells and cheese and something green that I will come up with at the last minute.

After dinner it's Family Game Night: Go Fish Edition, and Finding Nemo! Fun. Fun. Happy Valentine's Day.

hAppY BiRtHdAy DumPliN'!!!

2009-01-26T10:14:00.006-06:00

So much has happened in one year!
Here is what you looked like one year ago today.

It looks like brother and Mam aren't too sure about a new sister.

I wish I had some great pictures to share of her first year. Here are some pics of her arriving into this world.

After deciding that a new sister would be great, her arrival was very anticpated by her brothers and sister!

In keeping with the Renfroe family tradition. We had cinnamon rolls this morning. She was so excited that it was her birthday! Mam (in the corner) was not as excited!

Brother was first in the line to hold her when she was born, and...

...he got her out of her crib this a.m. singing "Happy Birthday to You..."

Happy Birthday Baby. We love you.

Blue Screen of Death

2009-01-10T22:40:00.002-06:00

We were waiting on St. Nick and this SOB shows up. We loose one major gadget every Christmas Eve. Last year, the t.v. this year the computer. We are back up and running, but, lost all of our pictures. If you have taken any pics of my kiddos over the last 2 years, please send them my way. I would really appreciate it!

Santa's Little Helpers

2008-12-20T15:59:00.004-06:00

It's Sweat-Shop Saturday. Hope you guys are having this much fun!

More Handmade Christmas

2008-12-20T07:46:00.003-06:00

The kids are making each other's Christmas present this year. Addie is making the boys & Caroline crayons. It took her a full week to peel, break, and sort them, but, she is a diligent little elf.

Hope--What is on my Mind

2008-12-18T19:03:00.001-06:00

I had to post on that hymn earlier today. It was super encouraging to me. This Christmas season has been such a learning process for me. What a crazy year it has been huh? With the fall of the real estate market and the fall of the economy we have had to get super creative around the Renfroe household this Christmas.

This past week I have had the opportunity to email back and forth with a dear friend of mine from high school. She is my friend that is like a sister to me. I don't really remember a time in my life without her, which is a great thing because she has always had a sweet walk with the Lord. She (and her mom) had a tremendous influence on my own walk with God.

Well, here I have been bustling around getting creative with what to do with the kids for Christmas, for others, for Santa... When she emailed that her husband had lost his job due to this economy, I was devastated for them. It occurred to me that we are in the same boat. Due to this economy, and for all practical purposes, Al has lost his job. We talked a bit more about hope.

In 2 Corinthians Paul talks about our present troubles being (shortlived) but also necessary to produce eternal glory. Troubles (hard but short lived)+ the life of a believer= eternal glory that lasts for all time. Why do I not long for times like this?

Anyway, I just wanted to encourage all of my sistas that are having to get creative around your homes for Christmas. I asked Al what he thought about all this and he said, "What a great opportunity for us to give (our kids) what they really need this Christmas--Jesus."

Merry Merry Christmas!

2008-12-18T07:59:00.002-06:00

O soul, are you weary and troubled?No light in the darkness you see?There’s light for a look at the Savior,And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,Look full in His wonderful face,And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,In the light of His glory and grace.

Through death into life everlasting He passed, and we follow Him there;O’er us sin no more hath dominion—For more than conquerors we are!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangly dim, In the light of His glory and grace.

His Word shall not fail you—He promised;Believe Him, and all will be well:Then go to a world that is dying,His perfect salvation to tell!

Turn you eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangly dim, In the light of His glory and grace.

For Our Teachers

2008-12-17T23:26:00.005-06:00

I want to give you all a peek at what the Renfroe boys will be giving their teachers tommorrow. I worked on these last week during breaks in my class. My students had a ball telling me what colors they wanted me to use and etc. I had a tons of fun. My kids enjoyed the art lessons.

I asked both boys questions about school and their teachers and wrote down what they said on the back.

Brother's was very school oriented. He said: Dear Miss Jennings, I love you and I love that you are my teacher. My favorite thing to do in your class is to play stations. My favorite lesson was about school supplies. I loved pajama day. I loved making hot chocolate and having a bell and that's all. My favorite thing we do in school is art. I love to color and paint. I want to color and paint all day. I really like to go outside and play on the playground. My favorite thing to play is 'tricks.' But, if a teacher sees us playing 'tricks' we have to go sit on the hill. I really like going to school early. I like when you call roll. Sometimes, I get called last on your roll, that's because an "R" must be last.

Love,

Taye was not at all interested in this project. Sorry, Miss Terri. He said, "All I want to say to Miss Terri is 'hey' and 'bye' and THAT IS IT." I did (finally) get some good stuff though. "Well, I do like to play king at school. And, I like playing racing with Miss Terri. I also like to give Miss Terri hugs. My FAVORITE thing at my school is my peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I like to learn about coloring. I like to go outside. I don't like to sit in my chair, be still, be quiet, put my head down or hold my quiet finger up. I also don't like to zip our mouths. And, I don't like to take a nap. And, that is it! I really like Miss Terri because she LOVES me so I don't have to be in trouble. "

Love,

Taye

hmmm...very tell-tale. haha!

General Merriment

2008-12-16T23:04:00.000-06:00

Here are a few more Renfroe family Christmas decorations.

This is the tree in the front room. It looks HUGE from the road. We have had several visitors that were disappointed that the tree isn't larger than life.

This tree is in the kitchen. It has all of the kids handmade ornaments and is super fun. The huge letters are just from walmart. The kids and I glittered them. We bought them several years ago. Not sure if there are any like it now. Sometimes the spell out messages on the tree. These can get hilarious.

Here is a Taye Renfroe original

Tree in Mam's room with crowns and butterflies and hot pink gerbra daisies.

Our front door. Looks like the trim is done around it doesn't it? Well, it's not. So if you drive by long after the wise men have definitely seen the Christ child, and my door display is still up, you know why.

( readers from my home state will no doubt be seeing Christmas trees (re?)decorated for Valentine's Day and Mardi Gras. Why can't I leave my door decorations up in the place of trim? haha!)

Here is More Holiday Cheer

2008-12-14T22:55:00.006-06:00

Just realized that I never gave you guys a peek at the afore mentioned tree in all her glory:

Taye put the star on top this one. Great job, I might add.

This tree is our Family tree. It is
the tree we put our oranaments we bought on vacations and our yearly ornaments.

This year's ornaments are a basketball for ST (for his first year of Upward), a pirate for Taye (obvious reaons) a handpainted local artist ornanment for Dumplin's first Christmas, and a princess for Mam (again obvious reasons).

This tree is also a perfectly imperfect tree. I literally let the kids decorate it however they want. If you look closely, there are a lot of ornaments in concentrated areas. I love that the only ornaments that made it to the top are the ones Al and I hung. Perfectly Imperfect...

And She's Off!

2008-12-14T22:41:00.004-06:00

Well, not really off in a fast way, more of a backward crawl. Although, in the pics she looks Super Fast! She also can do a great "Caterpillar" in place of the crawl. If all else fails, she just calls "Bu-Bu" or "Cay-Cay" (Yes, she's talking too!) to pick her up and take her wherever she wants to go. God help us if Mam tries to get her from one place to the next!

Caution: This Post Contains Wheat, Egg, Milk, & John Parker Wilson Products

2008-12-14T21:04:00.002-06:00

Chef ST is at it again:

Just settled in for "The Wonder Pets Save the Nutcracker."

We had a wonderful early Christmas breakfast prep-ed by Chef ST and Sous-Chef Daddy.

The Menu:

Apple Cinnamon Smiley-face Pancakes (ST helped draw the faces)

Sausage

Daddy's Awesome eggs (Is it to early for Dumplin' to have Tony's on her eggs?)

Hot Chocolate

and Reindeer Cookies

This past Friday ST had the Polar Express Day at school. The kindergarteners wore pjs to school. Granna came in clutch with these babies and not a moment too soon.

I am sure when she arrived to take him to school, Al had him in 5 inch too short pj pants and an "I love Chicks" tee-shirt.

Think I am kidding? I present Exhibits A and B taken last night: Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree:

Thanks, Granna, you saved the day, as his class went to "the big school" to watch the second grade play.

It was cool for the second graders to look like penguins, not for a random kindergarten spectator, whose mommy obviously needs to buy him new pjs!

**Note: the blurry photographs are the work of our budding photographer/self portrait artist.

Selection of a Tree: The Renfroe Method

2008-12-13T21:47:00.009-06:00

Remember how we prepared for Christmas last year? Well we are back again this year for all of you last minute elves that need help deckin' (Troy-style) your halls.

Let's start with tree selection:

Well, if you live in this town, you head up to Terracotta on Thanksgiving Day.

Side note: Al and I have only had one tree that wasn't from Buddy's tree farm. We have even driven trees from his farm to our home(s) in neighboring states:

They didn't open until 3. We got there early because, according to Al's grandfather, they were going to be "packed" this year, due to early advertising. So, because of their ability to leap a chain link fence in a single bound, we sent the kids on in. Here is a pic of Cade sharkin' out the best trees for us.

Don't worry, that lady isn't going to steal his tree, but, just to be sure, he peed on it.

Haha! Made you look!

Brother documented the whole experience for us.

In the end, they chose this one

Taye tied it up for us, we threw her on the tractor and we were off

Just kidding about the tractor thing. Who knows why Brother thought this tractor was important? Maybe because this was the ONLY thing Taye asked for from Santa last year. Obviously, we are letting Bryant and Amy use it for commercial purposes.

The kids Christmas list this year?

Glad you asked.

Dumplin' just wants Christmas dinner.

Mam wants a doll house and princess anything

Taye has continued with his theme of "Perfectly Practical Gifts Santa will NEVER bring"

He asked for a real Rhinocerous and a Cheese Cracker

ST, in all seriousness, asked for his own apartment.

Guess he figured if the rhino was in, he was out. Me too, bud, as long as the apartment has waterfront views.

Or, we could just forget the apartment and buy a second home. This one was recently (and perfectly) decorated by Pink Wallpaper. Pretty Please Santa, I have been REALLY good this year. And brother, well, he has never had his bear moved, and last week, on his behavior report, he got all 5s.

Thanksgiving Recap

2008-12-12T21:13:00.007-06:00

I know that this is late (sorry Aunt A)
Here is our Thanksgiving Recap:
ST had a pow-wow at school. It was so fun! Here he is with his buddies Walker, Ben, and Pres.

Our little wild Indian

Here was our table and centerpeice

We had a wonderful time hosting Thanksgiving this year! The kids had tons of fun with Mimi, Pap and Aunt A.

Attention CO People

2008-12-10T09:32:00.002-06:00

The Renfroes do move a good bit, this is true. However, you guys have moved so much that I don't know where to send Christmas cards to. Maybe my super-fly photographer can hook me up with a virtual Christmas card? Or, you are going to have to email me your addresses. Stupid post, I know, but, practical nonetheless. No?

So Many Things to See...

2008-11-12T18:36:00.004-06:00

Mam has begun noticing groups of like items. I know it sounds crazy. She pointed these pictures out to me.

Now Mam didn't ask me to start a collection of something for her. She just notices them. I am not sure if she likes it, or thinks it strange that there would be a group of the same things all placed together. I choose to believe that she likes it. So, with Christmas around the corner, I am thinking of starting a collection of something for Mam. Any ideas?

Here's More Ugly House Pictures...

2008-11-11T10:35:00.005-06:00

After this post, I am sure that you will agree with me that the ugly house is on its way to not being so ugly anymore.
Here is my warning label:
This post contains before photos of the nastiest bathroom in America. In one photo Taye is "ducking" so that Al can take a before photo. Do I allow my children to play on the floor of a disgusting house? No. It just appears that way. Yes. That is mold. The grout on the tile in the after photos looks darker in these photos than it actually is. We took showers this morning, so it is wet.

Here is what handy handsome husband did:
We tore this bathroom down to the exterior walls. We even had to replace the studs. The usual "things you don't see": New Wiring, New Plumbing (all the way to the street), Adding Central Heat and Air, as well as venting. It is very obvious that there WAS no ventilation to this bathroom. The mold should tip you off.

Al put on a haz-mat suit and gas mask, tore out all walls and ceilings and tore out the old shower and tub. He found the floor completely rotten and replaced all of the joists, and added a new sub-floor. He moved the plumbing to make way for a bigger shower and bathtub. He tiled the floors and shower with tumbled marble. He did not build a new shower pan/mud bed. Our house has an unfinished basement and he was worried about it cracking. He ordered the bed from here. I think it is the 5 foot. When he moved the plumbing he added the extra jets in the shower. Our amazing, super talented cabinet maker, Steven built the sink base, tub surround, and linen closet. The sink base is his own design. We tried several things, however, as you can see the space is narrow. This is what he came up with. Needless to say, I am VERY pleased with the results.

I think that is it. Except Al says to add, "Sorry for the cheesy music, of which I have no control."

Trumped by the Tour

2008-11-05T20:31:00.006-06:00

Apparently, my bookshelf was not interesting enough. Al decided to high-jack my blog and post his own pics. The reason I didn't post those pics originally may not be so clear to all...
Let's start from the top:
I didn't take these pics, he did. He didn't notice things like, my lamp shades are so crooked. The plugs to my lamps are blaringly visible. The rug that is in the dining room right now is a temp. It is just a carpet cutting from the playroom, until Mr. Virtual Tour buys me this one. We have no curtains yet. Carlene, I noticed you are reading, come on over. My bulletin board in the background is so boring (but, functional!) This weekend's project is to cover it to look like this:

I thought about taking Al's post down because of our dining room being still such a decorating work in progress. I haven't gotten it all 'fluffed' and ready for it's close-up. (I spy a 5 gallon paint bucket in the corner of the living room in one pic.) And, there is all but dirty laundry on the floor.

To the naked eye, there isn't a whole lot of difference in the before and afters. Here are a few things handy husband did. In addition to the things you don't get to see, new wiring, plumbing, central heat and air, a new roof, a hot water heater (were people living here with no hot water?), the windows had to be repaired and reglazed. All of the rotten trim, (covered in paint) and missing trim, had to be re-built, The floors were re-finished 3 times before they turned out (don't ask) and probably the biggest renovation of that room was the um...textured(?) red wall paper was holding up/in the 100 year old crumbling plaster walls. I am super proud of my super talented (and super handsome) husband. So, I will leave it up.

At some point, you must allow me to redeem my decorating abilities. Truth be told, this is how we roll. Al always jokes, "In Laura-world Style trumps Function." Judging from the pre-mature full view dining photos, in blog world, Virtual tours trump Style!

My turn...

2008-11-05T08:20:00.005-06:00

OK. This will be my first post to this blog. And to make it even better, Laura has no idea that I am doing this. If you know anything about us (or have followed our somewhat sporatic attempt to join the blogging world) you know that we have been remodeling an "ugly" house. Laura asked me to take pictures of the dining room so she could post the updated project. I took the pictures, but as you can see only one bookshelf made the cut. So I have decided to post the other pics I took. Hopefully we can continue to put up the other rooms. Enjoy!

Update On The Ugly House

2008-11-04T21:57:00.004-06:00

Are we living in the ugly house?

Yes we are...

Except, the inside isn't ugly anymore!

I haven't gotten it 'just so' just yet...

I love having space.

I love that everyone has a little more real estate than we are used to.

I do love all of the windows (35 to be exact)

I love my kitchen.

I love the master suite.

The playroom...

Did I mention we have space?

It occured to me today, that from the blog side of things, the ugly house is still ugly...

We are still working on it...will we always be? Maybe.

But the inside of the house is in ship shape.

Many thanks to my hard working and talented husband...who, by the way, doesn't like having his books turned around backward...

Can I put in a request for Piper, Spurgeon, C.S. Lewis and any paperback classic that my husband loves to be sent hardback, bound in a neutral color and/or wrapped in craft paper?

Auburn Fans are SO Obnoxious!

2008-09-18T10:27:00.004-05:00

Yesterday ST brought home a note from school. It said, "What do you want to be when you grow up? Why?" And, "What do you like to do?"

If you know my husband, my inlaws, or my little boy, you know that they LOVE the Crimson Tide. A recent game ran past bedtime, and ST agreed to go to bed, "Only if dad would come into his room if Alabama scored so they could high-five."

Back to the worksheet: I suggested that ST put in the 'What do you like to do?' column, 'Watch Alabama football.' He said, "I can't do that, mom, Mrs. Jennings will give me a line face, or a sad face, on my paper because she goes for Aurburn." Poor kid. I guess he's in for a lifetime of having to deal with those obnoxious Auburn fans!

I am the Worst Blogger in the History of the World!

2008-09-16T09:36:00.007-05:00

If you have been "Keeping up With the Renfroes" and you don't live in my city, it hasn't required much of your time! I know, I know...April!!! I am so emabarassed. It has been forever!!! Wow! Did the summer really slip away that fast?

Everyone at our house is doing great. ST started kindergarten! He LOVES his teacher, and she is great! There is an awesome group of little boys in his grade, and we are excited about him growing up with them.

Taye started pre-K. His teacher has to be (by far) the most patient person in town. Taye also has a really fun group of boys in his class. Ms. Terri is so patient with them as they jump, run and play...all of this INSIDE the classroom! There is also a set of twin girls in his class that all of the boys love. They are really cute and sweet. The twins are often "hot on the heels" of those boys. I am not sure how the teachers mak it through the day sane!

Mam is at home with Dumplin' and Lois. She has been learning her numbers and colors, and pretty much every domestic responsibility involved in running our house. Cleaning, cooking, feeding and (Gasp!) bathing the baby, are all of her specialties.

Dumplin' is just fat and happy. She loves her brothers and sister. She thinks they are hilarious. I have to admit, I agree with her.

Wes came over last Saturday to take pics of the girls. We ran into two problems:

1-the boys kept dressing up as cowboys and jumping in front of the camera

2-Mam wouldn't put on her "pretty dress" that mom had picked out for her, she only wanted "Pink." So, we let her dress herself, and Wes just shot away. I think they turned out great. See what you think...

Here is the post on his photography blog with more pics...

Taking a Break

2008-04-09T13:40:00.002-05:00

As Al and I frantically scramble to get finished with the ugly house, I will be on blooger strike for a week or more. It was great to see a few underground readers at Ivan and Courtney's wedding. In an attempt to keep the faithful readers of the Renfroe Chronicles , I (as promised) will have Al post a new virtual tour of the progress. Check back next week...

Just Another Day in Paradise

2008-03-31T21:57:00.002-05:00

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2008-03-20T23:36:00.006-05:00

Happy spring! I love this time of year! It's time to get out your cleaning supplies and give the pad a good old scrub down! I am really starting to get excited about the move because it gives me a good opportunity to get rid of some of the junk that is taking up real estate here at the Renfroe house!
I am a little nervous about some of the things that I might find though. My boys are now at the age that they bring 'treasures' into the house without me knowing about them. Here is a picture of the things I pulled out of the pants pockets before doing laundry this morning:

Spring is the best season of all to me. I love the idea of a new begining. I know I desperately need one in several areas of my life! My friend Delta sent me the best package in the mail last week. She sent me an article about using scripture to train and teach your children. This is an area I definitely need a new beginning in. I know it is what is necessary, yet, how does it look, practically? We have mostly just tried using scripture memory. It is so hard to explain certain words to your preschooler. With this route, I have had a hard time getting the point across. For example, a verse we use often about being kind uses the word 'preference.'

"What does preference mean?"

Well, the point we want to make is: the Bible says to consider others better than ourselves.

"Mom, what does 'consider' mean?"

I get lost in all of the technicalities!

In a conversation with Delta she said, "I am trying to use scripture to encourage them to use correct behavior instead of fussing at them all day." I should note for those of you who don't know Delta should note that she doesn't speak in "preference," "considers," and "thou shalts." She is extremely practical. I was instantly intrigued, as I am definitely in need of a fresh clean start in this area of my life. So, she sent me the package.

The article has a chart that has these headers: a list of circumstances, a list of questions to ask to help them think of the solutions on their own, a list of behaviors to "put off," (using Scripture) behaviors to "put on," (using Scripture), and a list of other Verses on the subject.

For example, the first one is:

Disobeying

the questions:Are you obeying or disobeying? How did you disobey? How does God want you to obey? Note: All the way, Right away, with a happy heart

put off: Disobedience. When you disobey me, you are disobeying God and it will not go well with you. I love you too much to allow you to disobey. Eph 6:1-3

put on: Obedience. "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Colossians 3:20

Additional verses: Proverbs 13:13, 18, 24 Proverbs 15:32

I realized quickly that I need to spring clean my attitude. Just looking over the pages of that chart I realized that so many of my automatic responses are foolish and child-like. Here are a few that cut me to the core:

Selfishness, worry, teasing, discontent, complaining, wastefulness

The other morning I was watching the election news. Obama was talking about the majority of Americans "having zero or negative balances in their bank accounts, while holding down two, maybe three jobs." Now, being an election year, the politicians would have us to believe that the rising cost of oil is to blame. I am sure that has some to do with our current situations. However, personally, I can't place the blame completely on the oil. Here is what my chart says to put on:" Wastefulness leads to poverty and a foolish man destroys what he has. Guilty. I can not even count how many times I have used the phrase, "We will get you a new one..." for some reason or another. I am truly convicted over the contridictions in my words and behaviors with my children.

I am so thankful for the grace and patience of the Lord. Oh, how I need both!

Snaggle-tooth Jones (or Renfroe)

2008-03-17T20:33:00.003-05:00

Well, last week we finally had Taye's teeth pulled (sob, sob). They desperately needed to come out after he fell last month. I had a hard time with having them pulled so early because they won't be back in for a few YEARS! (yikes!) I had to remind myself that worse things could happen.

After a few days I have not only gotten used to Taye with a "hole" (as he puts it), I think it suits him well. For those of you who don't know, Taye is a pirate for 20 of the 24 hours in a day. We do all things pirate. We build ships, use swords, talk in a a raspy voice, fight off other "bad pirates," etc. My dad even says Taye has a promising future as a professional pirate.

There are several different pirates that take up residence in our house. Because Taye has created and named each one, we have to guess which one he is and ONLY call him that. See if you can tell the difference between:

Captian Jack

Pirate Taye

Captian Sweet Tooth

The Bad Pirate

Captian Hook

The Sweet Pirate

Here is a pic of the pirate' s "gear" while he is in the bathtub. That kid has some definite piratitude!

He has also been using his toothlessness to his advantage. Miss Missy at his school recently told my mother-in-law this story: Miss Missy uses a whistle to call the kids in from the playground. Whistles are loud and shiny and Taye loves things that are loud and shiny, so he asked Miss Missy if he could blow her whistle. She told him that it had her cooties on it, so he couldn't blow it. Taye thought for a second, then informed her that he wouldn't get her cooties from her whistle because he had a hole he could put the whistle in to blow it!

Mam's First Haircut

2008-03-16T21:08:00.002-05:00

Get Your Game On

2008-03-16T00:03:00.003-05:00

Taye is gearing up for the final 4:

And, it's tee-ball time again! We are excited to get to play on a team with a bunch of cousins again. We have been very fortunate that for both tee-ball and soccer we have been able to play with both family and friends. It sure makes it easier for grandma, as she doesn't have to bounce from field to field!

Putting the Neighbor in the 'Hood

2008-03-13T10:42:00.010-05:00

Remember my post on my favorite blogs? Well, the Sticklers have been unveiling their beautifully renovated home room by room. To begin the reveal she wrote a wonderful post about the Lord's 'renovation' of our hearts. I emailed her to tell her how much I appreciated the post, as it was very timely for me.

I have been thinking a lot lately about the subject, being in the middle (as always) of my own renovation. I feel like with every move, God teaches me over and over again, that this world is not my home. I can try to create my own version of home, here on earth, but, by and by I will fall short. What's more, without the right motives, all of my efforts will be in vain.

We sold our beloved little house last week. I have some mixed emotions about it. Thankfully, it sold in just a few days to a sweet girl, who I know will love it. She had been 'eyeing' it for over a year. We are excited for her, and are in desperate need of more space. I am a little sad. I have loved this house. I have loved having two wonderful friends as next door neighbors, one on either side. It is almost surreal and rather Mayberry-ish. I hadn't really thought about what this move will mean for us, until yesterday. My roofer was asking me if I liked 'living over here.' Like it? He OBVIOUSLY doesn't live anywhere near here, because everyone who lives here knows, you don't just LIKE living here, you LOVE it.

To the naked eye, we live on a 1920s -1930s 'working class' street. Our homes were built by 'working class' builders who, for the most part, were great friends with whomever they were building for. My personal house was built by the father of a well-known realtor here in Troy, and grandfather to one of my best friends. It was built for the single daughter of the people who built my next door neighbor's house. There used to be a brick patio connecting the two houses. It is now covered with a lawn. The houses were then bought by best friends. The older people who live on my street remember 'the ladies' having coffee on that patio every morning. They also added a koi pond. The pond is still there. It has been covered up with dirt and has monkey grass growing in it. I had good intentions of bringing it back, but, never did.

Our street is very important to the history of our city. The neighbors are quick to inform anyone about that. Our fine street has raised a few of the local celebrities. Jean Lake and Wiley Sanders both grew up here. If you ever have the chance to ride around town with an older person, they have many fond memories of playing on these lawns. They can tell you who built each of these homes, who grew up in them and often times who lives there now. If they don't know who lives there now, I do. Ask any of the neighbors and they know who lives there as well. We are such a diverse fun mix of old and young, white collar, blue collar, single, married, with children and without.

To be honest, some people who live in Troy, and don't live over here don't quite 'get it.' I have heard people who grew up here say,"When I was growing up, that neighborhood was not like that..." Um, yes it was. This street is not the trendy new place to build. We have way too many trees for that. We don't have a gated entry, although, if Joy were telling this story, we do have a gatekeeper. We don't have matching mailboxes, however, when a neighbor was away at war we did all have matching yellow ribbons, until his return. Our houses are all different shapes, sizes and styles. I teach my kids about architecture while they ride their bikes. Our homes do not reflect our salaries, in fact, almost everyone is doing some sort of update, upgrade, or necessary repair. We are all very proud of our neighborhood, of our homes, of their 'pedigrees', and even a little snobby about them.

We have truly out grown our home. Some might say we out grew it two kids ago. Several of the neighbors have asked me why we don't just stay on this street. Well, I would love to, but, in order to do so I would have to loose good neighbors.

We aren't going far, but we will miss it just the same. Excitingly, we will be here for one more secret egg hunt. By the way, does anyone have the letter or the story that The Messenger ran on it? I need the poem. We will be back for Trick-or-treating next year. I am sure it won't be the same. I hope Lauren will let us park here for the hay-ride. (Don't forget to dress up Lauren. Yes, even the adults do) I will miss the un-official Annual Saturday Spring Clean Up. That is, unless it is 70 degrees this Saturday, and all of my neighbors are out in their yards cleaning up and planting flowers. But, as I said before, it's un-official, so, who knows which spring Saturday it will be? I will miss coming outside on some random day to see bikes parked in my yard that don't belong to any of my children. I will miss after school football games that span several front yards. I will miss the early evening walkers, and the fact that they walk right in the middle of the street. I will now have to drive my children over to the legendary "longest driveway on (the) street" to sit in the rocking chairs with it's very proud owners, while my kids ride their bikes up and down and raid the "kids fridge" lovingly stocked with everyone's favorite drinks.

All of these things are so home-y and a wonderful picture of what life should be like. I would love to never leave. I especially do not want to move all of my things into a Mobile Attic and rent until our renovation is complete. I should fuss at Al for putting our house up so soon. Considering the market we are in right now, he thought it might take some time to sell. I am excited about getting to know new neighbors. I am excited about new neighborly traditions. All in all, my new street is really great. However, with the for-sale sign, the Mobile Attic, the in between house, and, leaving the coolest place in Troy to live, I need to be reminded that this world is not my home.

Here Is What Mam Is Up To These Days...

2008-03-02T21:15:00.007-06:00

This is Mam and I having coffee and reading the paper the day after we brought the baby home from the hospital. Besides The Messenger Mam's latest literary choices include, Gigi, God's Little Princess, Good Night Dora, This Little Piggy Went to Prada, and the Goody's sale paper.

Mam is very helpful with the baby. Sometimes too helpful...

Here is Mam keeping the baby company. Note the matching paci's and Little Giraffe blankets...

And, her fav. thing to do...playing with bff pumpkin.

When It's Carnival Time, Everybody's Happy

2008-02-18T13:24:00.003-06:00

Here are some pics of the kids celebrating Mardi Gras! The boys had a blast at their very first Mardi Gras parade. Mom and Dad thanks for all of the junk.

Finally a new post!

2008-02-18T12:46:00.007-06:00

Al tells me that if I don't get a new post up soon, I am going to lose my readers. So, here is a new post for the few loyal troopers (and the one underground reader, who won't admit he checks this site...Matt) that are tired of seeing my same ole' old posts. Also, for those of you who are concerned, I do have intentions of "taking down my Christmas tree." I have just been waiting to add new pics of the baby to the header. For now here are some pics of the kids in their Valentine's Day get-ups.

The boys didn't really want to get into Valentine's Day and decided to be pirates instead. I did, however, manage to slide in a pair of red shirts without them noticing.

Mam was everyone's Valentine at lunch with Granna and Dar. She kept pointing to herself and saying "pretty."

Little mam was just being, well... pretty.

I also should note that Taye was laying the charm on thick at Granna's house in celebration of the occasion. While helping him get into his pirate outfit, Granna, apparently was having a hard time getting his pirate hat, "just right." Out of frustration Taye informed her that, "D-Since you can't get my hat right I am not going to be a pirate anymore. I am going to be a WOLF and I will blow your house DOWN!" Boy, that kid sure does have a way with the ladies!

And, for those of you who are checking Taye's face very closely, (Mom) you will notice that he is looking great, as Valentine's Day was 1 week post surgery!

Up Next Stucco!

2008-02-06T18:05:00.005-06:00

I am so proud of my super talented (and super cute) husband...For those of you who aren't residents of this fine city, here are some new pics of the front elevation adjustment:

We all remember the ugly house.

Here is some shots of the ugly house with three front doors...

Front Door Number 1 & 2

Front Door Number 2 & 3...

Here are some shots of the ugly house with a huge hole in it...

The ugly house with 2 huge holes in it...

I don't have a shot of the house with new windows yet. I will put that up later.

In case you missed the title, we will be getting stucco the last week in Feb. Hopefully Al will do another virtual tour on Friday, when the sheetrockers are done.

Photographer Shout Out

2008-02-01T12:15:00.000-06:00

The black and white photos that are of the kids and I, and, the kids and Al below were taken by Wes Roberts. He has been taking pics of our family over the last month, and documenting the end of my pregnancy, the family, and the baby. Several of you have asked about who took those photos, he now has a website up and running. He is a SUPER talented photographer, full of creative ideas. You can imagine what a photo shoot with the Renfroe's would be like. During the shoot, I caught myself wondering, "Did he get ANYTHING good from these crazys?" um...Yes he did! Check him out here.

For those of you who are interested, (or passionate about), getting and keeping small buisness owners in this fine county up and running, he is building a clientel here and hopes to open a studio in the near future.

Good Times Never Seemed So Good

2008-01-28T20:31:00.000-06:00

Well, she didn't wait until February. She didn't even wait until Tuesday. She decided that Saturday worked much better for her! Here she is... 7 lbs. 14 oz., 21 inches long. Born at 11:50 a.m. on January 26. We are so crazy about her! ST, Taye and Mam are SUPER proud!

Mam is calling all of her friends to tell them the news!

Raise your hand if you are SO excited that your mom isn't pregnant anymore!

ST kept saying, "I just HAVE to hold THAT BABY!" He even put everyone on a schedule as to who's turn it was to hold her. (hint: chances are, it was his turn)

The Blogs I Regularly Stalk

2008-01-25T10:04:00.002-06:00

It is official...I am a blog stalker. I first noticed when I changed my evening routine to include "just checking so-and-so's blog before bed." The stalker status came when I HAD to check them before bed, now it is part of my evening routine. I am not really sure if other people do that, so I am a little reluctant to admit it. I flew under the radar for a little while by only linking their blog sites to my favorites, now, I am ready to come out of the closet and admit my obsession. I am guessing that because I find these blogs interesting, other people will as well:

First, there is Melissa's blog, she is the author of "Whack-a-Mole." She and her husband have a ministry in Dallas similar to Delta and BK's. Check out her post on naming the family's new dog. It is hilarious.

Then there are several design blogs I love. I am reluctant to put these down, as I have a file of ideas that I may "borrow" off of these sites, whenever my ship comes in. Oh well, I guess I don't need to be selfish...
Urban Grace

Design Mom

This one's always fun too...

I am always in the mood for this one

Kid's Crafts! Yeah!

I really like this blog, that I found while looking for ideas for a birth announcement...

For a daily dose of pure humility and a look into a truly sweet walk with Jesus, check out this blog...

This blog was linked to urban grace interior's blog and we were also connected by Jenissa I became slightly obsessed with the renovation of their house, as it is moving faster than my own renovation. I am hanging by a thread until she gets pics up of the finished home!
Check out her kitchen!

There you have it folks! These are the ones of the people I don't know. Of course I do like to stalk the blogs of those I do know. Except my friend Jessie's blog. Anyone know how to get into that thing? It's locked up like Fort Knox. I have been regularly adding more sites to my nightly "just checking." I will post on them later.

9 months?!?! Is that all they are giving us these days?

2008-01-24T22:16:00.000-06:00

Well, I guess my gestational period has come to an end...I was so hoping that this little one would hold out until February, no such luck. Because we now have NO hospital in this fine city, my new doctor, has decided that, if I want an epidural (and I do LOVE an epidural) I am going to have to be scheduled, as apparently, I am dialating with very minimal contractions. Tuesday is the big day. The other children are so excited they can barely contain themselves...

So is Al...

Although, we won't be getting sheetrock until Thursday, which was our original, "let's hope the baby waits until..." point, we really can't wait to meet her! So, Tuesday it is!

Cooking With ST

2008-01-21T22:56:00.000-06:00

ST is learning to cook. It may be a combination of Al and I loving to cook and Campbell's new Pottery Barn Kitchen, which, I have to admit, is much cooler than most real kitchen's I know. The other night he made Strawberry Shortcake. It was delicious! Al helped him measure and put it in the oven for him. Everything else, he did all by himself!

Whack-a-Mole

2008-01-21T22:30:00.000-06:00

I have this friend that has a friend who blogs a lot about raising babies, anyway, she is really funny and I enjoy reading her blog a lot. Recently, she was blogging about trying to get her kids to bed. I loved it, as this is what happens every night around 7:45 p.m. at the Renfroe household. Without futher delay, here is her post on Whack-a-Mole:

"Chuck E. Cheese.

Being a mother of four, we have attended a couple of birthday parties at casa de Chuck E.

It's a little bit like my worst nightmare only in my nightmares I don't have to spend any money and when I wake up, I'm only surrounded by four wild banchees.

Lights flashing, children running around like crazy and you're constantly counting heads making sure yours are in sight.

I've even been tempted to put my kids in matching bright orange shirts just so I could spot them more easily. It's also the tokens and the prizes at the end that make my head spin.

It's pretty fun to go and spend about $50 then look in my hand to see what we got for our money.

A spinner, a spider ring, a parachute guy, and two children crying because they don't have enough tickets to buy the fuzzy pencil toppers.

"Why don't you just save your tickets until next time and you can get something you really want."

Like I have plans of ever coming back if I can help it.

Ok, actually, last time I was there, Chuck kind of redeemed himself. (I said 'kind of' Chuck, don't get excited.)

I was playing skeet ball with my kids, helping Sadie on the Barney moving car thing, and that's when I found it.

The game of all games.

Whack a Mole.

I totally forgot about Whack a Mole!

WHACK A MOLE!!!!

Bedtime at our home is just like Whack a Mole!

All four are tucked in, read to, prayed for, and kissed.

Put your token in...One's up. "Mom, I'm itchy."Down.

Three's up. "Mom, I'm thirsty." Which will inevitably be followed by, "Mom, I have to go to the bathroom."Down.

Two's up. "I know you said we can't get out of bed, but what if the house is on fire?"Down.

Four's up. "Are there going to be any tornadoes tonight?""We've never had a tornado. No more Wizard of Oz for you."Down.

I'm freakin' living WHACK A MOLE!

Except, I don't get one of those fun little clubs with the padded top and there are no tickets spitting out of their beds when I tuck them in for the fourth time each.

If there were, I think my prize case would have chocolate, wine, and season 2 of the Office.

Even so, I will play it to train, to hone my skills.Chuck E. Cheese's is still 'not my favorite', but I have begun to see it now in a different light.It's a tactical training ground.

We've got another birthday party coming up. I'm ready.

Bring it, my little mole friends. Bring it. "

Nothing to Write Home About...

2008-01-11T20:47:00.000-06:00

While, I have been blogger MIA, I am officially totally ready for the baby to get here. I am not at all miserable pregnant this time around, as I have been in pregnancies past, so this little one can stay put until her due date. We have officially called the game on naming this one as well. Guess who came up waving the big white flag? VERY SUPRISINGLY, it was me. That's right, after 5 years and 4 babies, Al has officially won his very first battle of the sexes. Congratulations to Al. I haven't quite figured out how to get her real name up here without throwing Mimi into another lecture/series of unpleasant phone calls. (Once again, we love you Mimi and we do appreciate your concern.) Also, Lois doesn't re-name my children until they are officially out of the womb, so for now, she is still just "the new baby."

I was hoping this week to get a pic up of Mam and her bff Campbell on their daily wagon ride, however, the weather didn't permit. Hopefully I can get those up in the next day or so, along with some pics of the house. It is an exciting time in the renovation. This week the Renfroe's will officially become the proud owners of a third front door for the ugly house! (Don't be jealous.)

By Some Measures, We are Celebrities

2008-01-01T21:39:00.000-06:00

I recently read about someone with four children under the age of four, (seriously, who does that? hahaha!) that is where the title of this post came from. Not to one-up the people that I don't know, however there was a set of twins in that 4 under 4. And, as most of you know ST won't be 5 until April. Celebrity status? um... I think so. Seriously, that's what I have been telling you guys all along!

I was going to add this super easy, super yummy cake for Jessica and my sister-in-law who are learning to cook. This one comes out every time and is ALWAYS so yummy!

Chocolate Chip Pound Cake
1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
1 small package of instant choclote pudding
1 small package of instant vanilla pudding
1 1/2 cup water
1/2 cup of cooking oil
4 eggs *read below directions before begining *
1 package semi sweet choclate chips

Mix together cake mix, both puddings, water, and oil. Beat 2 minutes. Add 4 eggs *one at a time, blending in between each egg. Add chocolate chips. Pour into a WELL greased and lightly floured Bundt pan. Back 45 minutes to 1 hour at 350 degrees. Allow the cake to cool in the pan.

Enjoy girls!

...Countdown Renfroe Baby 2008 Edition...

2008-01-01T01:37:00.000-06:00

Since New Year's Eve has been super exciting around here, I thought it would be fun to post some virtual pics of our yet to be named (or better, 'her name has yet to be determined by her equally stubborn parents') new addition...Happy New Year!

A Little Something Different For Ya'

2008-01-01T01:05:00.001-06:00

I thought I would change some things up for you guys to keep you on your toes. Well, actually I had a very strong suggestion (arm twisting) to update the updates. The history behind the names begins here: My mom is very wary of the world of blogging, so in the essense of privacy for the kids and to ease one grandma's mind, I am going to use nicknames for the kids. These nicknames (and a host of others) all arrived unannounced at our home with Lois. Lois was Al's childhood nanny/housekeeper who has now come to work for us in the afternoons. (Thank you Jesus!) She gives nicknames to all of her children and grandchildren. And, considers my children hers, as Al is also "her baby." That is all I know about the origin of these names. If you ask her why she chose them, she says, "I just did." Up until today, Lois has been the only one in our lives to use these names on a regular basis. Blogger world, meet ST (sometimes reffered to as Tate), Taye, and Miss Mam. Mimi, I hope this eases your mind a little. We love you, we appreciate you and Happy Birthday!

Our Weekend Indoors

2007-12-30T10:54:00.000-06:00

Well, Al has accused me of being lost in "blog world" this weekend. Upon realizing that he is probably right, here is my list of excuses: 1: it is partly his fault, as I am learning to use the new camera he gave me for Christmas, 2: this nasty (but much needed) weather has kept us inside all weekend, and Noggin network is kind of making me crazy! 3: This is way better than taking down the tree!

Al has been hard at work all weekend on the ugly house. (Which, should be excuse #4.) My friend Jessica and I stopped by on Saturday to check on the progress. Al had gotten annoyed with the 70 year old plaster on the walls and was in the process of tearing it down. I need to go ahead and say that tearing down the plaster was NOT on the list of things to do, and you would not believe the mess. Jess wanted to know, "Who cleans all this up?" I don't know, Al, "Who cleans all that up?" hmmm....

Anyway, the kids and I had a great weekend in our pjs...reading books, playing with Christmas toys, watching Noggin (I guess).

This week I will post a few pics of all of the demo on the house, but, for now here is a few of the kids... The first one is of the boys...watching Noggin... I am so thankful that they love each other's company so much. Al and I have prayed long and hard (and continue to) that ST and Taye would find in each other a friend that is closer than a brother. Thank you Jesus, for these sweet boys and their bond with each other...

And Miss Mam...Ya'll, she is definitely a girl after my own heart! Not only has she already developed a love of furniture, but, check out her way cool boots!

Taking Flight

2007-12-29T00:12:00.000-06:00

ST and Taye preparing for take off!

Yesterday Al and I took the kids out to go fly the planes that Mimi and Pap gave them for Christmas. Taye' s lasted all of 10 minutes, as most things that are around Taye do. ST's plane took off. We lost it and found it once, and, the second time it went down the plane suffered major damage. It went down in a goat pen behind some trailers. Al had a blast retrieving it!

Miss Mam's favorite part of the evening was making snacks for everyone after we got home. Check out the mouthful of M&Ms. Yum!

A Crazy Crazy Christmas!

2007-12-27T11:18:00.000-06:00

Christmas this year was definitely a different one! We had a wonderful time with our family and were truly blessed. This year was extra special, as the boys were fully aware of everything that was going on and Mam (as usual) followed in their footsteps! It was an awesome time of learning as well. The boys had a blast celebrating "baby Jesus's birthday," with ST constantly reminding us that "baby Jesus is not a baby anymore, He's even bigger than Daddy!"

My family came here this year, and for those of you who are wondering, yes, we all stayed on top of one another in our tiny baby house! It was a real adventure, especially after Santa paid his visit! My mom and I decided that this was our coziest Christmas ever!

My sweet inlaws welcomed my family with open arms! I am so grateful for their generosity! They truly rolled out the red carpet for a visit from my side of the family. Everyone had a blast!

In keeping with tradition, we had our Christmas dinner at Unk and Vicki's with record numbers this year. In addition to my family, Ben and Sam both had their girlfriends over for supper. We had lots of fun with them, and I was so excited that the male/female ratio is finally starting to even out! Here is a picture of Will and the boys after supper, (also, in keeping with tradition),
turning over a new generation in the "Jones/Renfroe Family Holiday Royal Rumble!"

Getting Ready for Christmas

2007-12-22T14:32:00.000-06:00

Well, the boys are busy preparing themselves for Christmas:

This picture is ST, making his list and checking it twice.....

He also is "learning" the words to popular Christmas carols. Today, while singing Away in a Manger, in all seriousness, he asked Al, "Daddy, what happens after the cows throw the baby away? Does He cry?" After Al told him he didn't know what he was talking about, ST cleared it up for him. "Dad, Parker and Tal's mommy SAID, you sing the song like this, (tune of Away in a Manger) 'The cattle are throwing the baby away!' I need to know, does he cry or does he not cry?" Al said, "Well man, I guess not, the next words are, 'but little Lord Jesus, NO crying He makes.'"

And, Santa's helper a.k.a Taye, he loads his backpack up every night and asks us, "What all ya'll want for Christmas?" We have to 'guess' something that is in his backpack. He usually responds with a, "No, that's mine. Guess something else." I guess good help is hard to come by these days, even for Santa...

More House Info.

2007-12-22T08:45:00.000-06:00

In case you were wondering, I am perfectly aware that my husband has gone and paid money for the ugliest house ever. Here is the story... When Al and I came back to home for his 10 year reunion, we were lovin' life in sunny Florida. Al often makes random statements about nothing, and at a reunion picnic at the park he made such a statement. We were admiring the homes of the historic district, here in town. Al made the comment that most of the homes were well loved and beautiful, "except that one." I looked up and saw this house right smack in the middle of the others. The roof was awful! The shingles were wrapped around the facia, soffit AND the gutters. (Sorry, I have no before pics of this) How they were attached, I will never know. Al then said, "If I ever move back home, I am going to buy that house and fix it." Keep in mind, at the time, the statement meant nothing more to me, than "If pigs could fly, then..." NEVER in my wildest dreams did I imagine owning that house. Fast foward to 2007-2008, we own the ugly home, and, Al is loving his project.

Here is a little vision for you...after demolition and framing, he is going to do a front elevation adjustment, to make the house's facade more appealing. Then, the fun part, modernizing the inside. I will post the progress as it happens, just know, that is what's next.

Historically speaking, this house is an important part of the city's history. It was built in 1937 by the first chancellor of the University and his wife, as their personal residence. Over the years the funds had been alotted to build the family a home on campus, however, he wanted to stay put in the historic district. The random right half of the house was a wrap around porch and carport, which was enclosed to accomodate him as he aged.

Virtual Tour Link

2007-12-21T14:13:00.000-06:00

Here is the link to the Virtual Tour that Al did for the before pics of the house we are working on. I want him to do a second one after the demo/framing is done. Just a note, the graphic for the virtual tour web site, isn't working for some reason, but the link is fine. You can click on the "X" to see the "befores."

Here is where my perfectionism takes over...

2007-12-20T07:44:00.000-06:00

So, I have been having a hard time trying to type new info. about our lives into my shiny new blog. It isn't that nothing is going on, and I visit the site daily, it's just so pretty...TODAY IS THE DAY I am going to add something, hopefully of interest. The Renfroes have been busy little elves these past few weeks. And, for people who love Christmas as much as we do, this has been tons of fun. The kids are getting super excited, and, are now out of "school" until January. Taye and I went to the grocery store yesterday and the check out girl asked him if he had seen Santa. He told her that he had seen him that morning. She asked him if Santa asked if he had been good or bad this year. Taye said, "He did." She asked him what he told him. Taye thought carefully for a minute and said, "I said, 'You wanna know what my momma says? She says, sometimes I am good and sometimes I am not." Now, I don't recall telling him, or Santa for that matter, these exact words, however, he had it all figured out!

I have asked Al to post a virtual tour of the ugliest house in the historic district to our page, so everyone can check on the progress. He says it is about to start really moving quickly. I pray that this is true, as I am ready to see the potential with my own eyes, rather than just in my head. Check back in a day or so, to see if he has posted it.

We met our new OBGYN this week. He was great, his office staff was impressive, and we feel very comfortable making this change. The Lord truly went before us, and prepared us for them, and they for us. What a relief! Thanks for all of your prayers and concerns. I will get some more pics up of the kids later...

Mam

2007-12-10T19:29:00.000-06:00

Miss Mam is 19 months. It is so much fun for me having a little girl, so, I am super excited about having another! Mam, much to her mother's delight, loves all things girly. She loves purses and shoes, anything pink, jewelry (which is not me, but, definitely delights her mimi), baby dolls and tea parties. A few things she definitely got from me, a love of shopping and that girl loves to eat! That may be the reason for the frequent tea parties. She willingly lets me dress her up daily, and already knows that no outfit is complete without a matching hairbow. If I am running behind, she always reminds me before we leave..."Bow?" She has a really sweet laid-back personality (courtesy of Al). She also LOVES playing with her brothers. She spends much of her day following behind whoever is doing the most interesting thing at the time: playing with blocks, playing outside, coloring, hiding, getting into something they aren't supposed to. But, there are only two things in Miss Mam's world that are truly worth her time, and they trump EVERYTHING...food and her daddy.

"Taye"

2007-12-10T19:09:00.000-06:00

Taye is 3 1/2 and my non-stop child. From the second his feet hit the floor in the morning he goes 100% until he finally "passes out" late in the evening. I had to say "passes out" because, with Taye, the day begins when he sees light outside and ends well after other children his age are fast asleep. Of course, we put him to bed with the others, he just plays and talks to himself until he finally falls asleep, much, much, much later! He LOVES jumping and running. Even if Taye only needs to take a few steps to get wherever he is going, it is definitely worth a jump and a short dash. He loves to play anything with a bad guy, police, cowboys, even a soccer match can turn into Taye v. the bad guys. He loves wearing hats, drinking his beloved chocolate milk, and riding in his John Deere truck. When he slows down he loves art projects and Noggin Network. Taye definitely keeps us on our toes, and laughing in hysterics all of the time. I will have to fill in later with some of his hilarious views on life.

ST

2007-12-06T20:37:00.000-06:00

So, because I am new to the whole blogging thing I will just start by updating on each of the kids. Our oldest ST is 4 1/2 and amazes us more and more everyday. He is super smart, very intuitive, he remembers EVERYTHING. He really is into being whatever character he has decided to be that day. He is mostly sports players. He loves Alabama football and North Carolina basketball, both courtesy of Al. However, he has thrown a small obsession with the Indianapolis Colts into the mix--all on his own. We "practice" whatever sport that ST is into that day for hours. ST is a great problem solver. He always "has an idea" about something, or nothing. He really has a sweet giving spirit and cheerfully shares anything with anyone. He takes great pride in being the oldest and the biggest, and always wants to be "in charge" of someone (or some dog) in the family. He really is a great helper, so most of the time he really is in charge of someone (or some dog).