The Tillman Tribe

New Year Update

2012-02-01T20:39:00.000-05:00

Josh and I were just talking last night and realized we just finished our first full month (January) living in our new house/new area! Honestly, it seems like a lot longer! There are some things I really like about living here, #1 my eat in kitchen! #2 all living space (minus laundry) on same level - love! #3 slowing our life down. most days we stay at home. #4 walking to church :) #5 "my" kroger has a starbucks and these cute things for the kiddos:

cars on the front of the shopping carts and…

Mini shopping carts for my mini me :)

But it has been hard living far away from any friends, 45 minute drive from Kroger/Meijer/Walmart etc and 1 hr drive to Target, and starting all over with ministry at church. We are still trying to figure out where we "fit" exactly in the community, and how to keep the kiddos busy during the winter months. Pray for us during the new season of life. More updates coming soon! :)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T12:12:00.000-05:00

Our New Church

2011-10-21T22:30:00.000-04:00

Several weeks into the fall semester at seminary, Josh was contacted by a church asking for him to come and preach then interview. We prayed about it and agreed. Two weeks in a row we went and visited Willow Baptist Church in Brooksville, Kentucky. (2 hours from our house) Josh preached both Sundays, we had an interview, and were informed the following Sunday the church would vote whether or not to call Josh as their pastor.

That week, we were all headed to Jacksonville, Florida for my brother Wade's and Jennifer's wedding. The Sunday after the wedding we all had a big cookout at my Dad's house after church to celebrate family, and my youngest brother Jonathan's birthday. During the food preparation Josh's phone rang with the contact from Willow Baptist Church. The church had voted unanimously YES to call him as pastor!!

We shared the news with our family and were excited to begin our new ministry. We were also sad to be leaving some dear friends we had made at our other church, FBC Fisherville.
Since the vote Josh has preached several Sunday's and on the weekends we go and stay at the church parsonage. The kids are SO thrilled to head to the "new" house each weekend, and sleep in their "new" beds. I love that they think it is an adventure! :)

Josh still has to finish up the semester before we head out to Brooksville. We are still praying that we sell our house, or find a renter. We need something!! Please pray for us as we begin our new ministry, and for a decision to be made on the house.

Here are a few pictures: (not in order, sorry!)

The kitchen at the parsonage (my favorite room)

The church building

The inside

The parsonage

Family Pictures Fall 2011

2011-10-11T21:12:00.000-04:00

We went to the Southern Seminary and took some pictures on their grounds. We got them back from the photographer today. Here are some of my favorites. :)

Favorite of the kids! Love Micah's face!

Josh's favorite of the kids.

My Beautiful Hannah ~ 4 1/2 years old

Peek-a-boo!

My Andrew ~ 3 years old

Big hug!

Micah Monkey Moo ~ 19 months

Looking at a leaf bug

Walkin'

I like the slanted angle…

Parents watching their kiddos. LOVE Andrew's face :)

I really like this one of me and Josh. Cool walking shot (and Micah) :)

Wade and Jennifer's Wedding

2011-10-03T21:54:00.000-04:00

We were in Jacksonville, FL the weekend of September 24 to celebrate Wade and Jennifer's wedding, and also my brother Jonathan's birthday! We had a great time with family. Here are a few pictures from the rehearsal and wedding day. Enjoy!

Micah sitting by the sign of the historic church where Wade and Jennifer were married. Micah was waving to pedestrians and drivers as they went past. He is such a friendly guy! I keep saying he was born to be a church greeter. ha.

The rehearsal dinner was at the same little place that Josh and I had our first date almost 9 years ago!!

The cutest ring bearer and flower girl the world has ever known. They are getting ready to blow bubbles on Aunt and Uncle as they leave. :)

Wade and Jennifer during the ceremony.

Hannah looking at herself. She had a beautiful baby's breath wreath for her head.

Andrew, slightly blurry, but it's hard to keep this kid still!!

Homemade Butterfingers!

2011-10-03T20:55:00.001-04:00

Seriously amazing!!

Recipe:
16 oz candy corn melted
16 oz peanut butter

Mix together and spread out on wax paper to cool.

Cut into small squares and dip into chocolate candy coating.

Enjoy!!

Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

The Park

2011-09-06T22:48:00.000-04:00

Having three walking children this summer has = lots of fun at the park! Here are the kids one day when Josh took them and got a few good pics. :)

Micah going down the slide

Hannah and Andrew down the double slide

Swings!

All smiles! :)

Making Grandma Birthday Cards!

2011-08-29T19:17:00.001-04:00

Hannah

Andrew

Micah

Grandma(Tillman) your cards are in the mail! (or maybe you got them today!?)

Love, us!!! :)

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Zoo

2011-08-20T22:27:00.001-04:00

We have LOVED our zoo membership and the kids get excited every time we go. Here are a few random pictures!

By the front sign.

The stone rhino.

Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Dress Like a Cow!

2011-07-28T15:55:00.001-04:00

I'm behind on posting! Whew. Here is our cow day photos. Great family tradition. :)

Hannah cow.

Silly cows. :)

My smallest cow. And the only one who was a black cow with white spots. :)

Kid cow and Andrew.

Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Andrew turns 3!!

2011-07-28T15:50:00.001-04:00

We had a great time celebrating Andrew's birthday! It was the week of VBS so he had lots of friends to celebrate with! :)

Cake

Birthday present from us. :)

:)

My growing-up-way-too-fast 3 year old boy!!!

(outfit from Grandma and Grandpa)

Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Pictures

2011-06-29T14:43:00.001-04:00

Micah's favorite thing to do. :)

Watching a car get stopped by a police officer right in front of our house.

Splash park at the zoo today. :) Andrew wouldn't pose.

We can't wait for VBS!! 12 days to go!!!

Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Life this Summer

2011-06-14T21:14:00.002-04:00

Today was a PERFECT spring like day. The weather was about 80 degrees, with a cool breeze, slightly cloudy, and just wonderful relaxing weather. Earlier this month, it has not been so, with almost 100 degree sticky weather every day. It was nice to be out in the yard and just relax for a little while today.

After coming back from Evan and Amanda's wedding in Jax, and a week in Alabama with the Hunters, life has been pretty crazy! Here are some of the things going on:

1) School: Josh has had three J-term classes back to back (this week break) and then two more coming up in the next three weeks. Whew. We don't see him much the weeks of the J-terms, only about 30 minutes to an hour each day. That is tough on me and the kiddos, but we are sticking out only a little bit more. Josh is on track to graduate this December with his master's degree and we couldn't be more proud of him!

2)Work: Josh has had some new things arise at work and has found out he will be working from home starting sometime this summer. (supposedly in a quiet house! how will that work? we are still trying to figure it out!!) At first he thought he was coming home the end of June, then July, now maybe August. August works for me. We just are hoping to have a new house by then to help with the noise issue.

3) House: We have had about 5-6 house showings (maybe more?) since we have been back. Some have gotten our hopes up, others slightly disturbing. (Like the people that came over 3 hours for their showing, while we were at church, with our house still messy, and then forgot to tell us the came, so I still cleaned and got out of the house later on in the day?!) Yeah. Interesting. Having our house on the market, is a testing of our faith and patience.

4)Church: slightly frustrating in some parts, not sure I want to share it all, but praying for wisdom and guidance!

5) VBS (July 10-15): Since I am the director of VBS at our church LOTS is falling on my shoulders. I am getting there, and enjoying my time doing it, but wishing I had more time and sanity away from the kids to help balance my need at church. And with Josh doing extra school this summer, it has made it a challenge. The Lord is seeing me through it somehow!

6) Kiddos: !! The kids have enjoyed the park, the zoo, splash parks, and playing - lots. They have boundless amounts of energy ALL the time. Especially Micah! He eats just as much as the "big kids" and just can't keep up with them enough. :)

That's all for now. Keep our family in your prayers, and all the crazy events of this summer!

National Donut Day

2011-06-10T18:55:00.001-04:00

Last Friday was National Donut Day and Krispy Kreme was giving away free donuts. Yum. :)

Hannah and Micah

Cheesy cheese smile!

Hannah said, "I'm a donut girl!"

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Wedding

2011-05-30T19:27:00.001-04:00

We went to Jacksonville for Evan and Amanda's wedding. Pre wedding activities included getting our nails done!!

Hannah and Aunt Sarah on the way to the rehearsal dinner.

Flower girl Hannah. :)

The bride and her momma.

Josh and Hannah!

Andrew smiling funny. Waiting for wedding to begin.

Micah too! :)

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Beach!!

2011-05-30T19:21:00.001-04:00

This was Micah's first trip to the beach, and the first time Andrew really remembered it, and the first time Hannah enjoyed the beach. It was a great day of firsts.

Trying to get a picture on the board walk.

Micah loved getting dirty and splashing in the waves!!

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Buechel Bank Rd,Louisville,United States

Homemade Popcorn!

2011-05-10T17:10:00.001-04:00

I heard about this homemade microwave popcorn and thought it too good to be true. But! It's not! You will need:

And...

Measure 1/4 cup of kernels in a paper sack. I add about 1 seconds of a splash of oil. (But I have heard it's not needed. )
Fold the bag over twice and tape closed.
Place in microwave for 1 minutes 45 seconds to 2 minutes.

Comes out looking like this!

Pour in a bowl and drizzle with a little butter and a dash of salt.

YUM!!

Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

House

2011-05-05T16:11:00.003-04:00

Our house is back on the market!!

CLICK HERE to check our our home listing, if you know anyone in the Louisville area looking for a home, pass our info along!!

And pray for us as Josh and I decide what our next move is next!

Going Green: Dumping Toxic Chemicals

2011-04-27T13:22:00.004-04:00

Getting rid of most of this:

And switching to this:

Going Green: Wool Ball Dryer Sheets

2011-04-26T21:50:00.004-04:00

I have contemplated making my own laundry detergent in the past, or trying dryer balls; but never put anything into action. This week I came across several different articles, as well as advice from friends, and realized how much healthier (as well as cost effective) it would be for my family to switch my laundry methods.

Chemicals we put into our laundry, especially in dryer sheets, stay on our clothes and seep into our skin. You can read some of the articles here, and here. Even if only half of what "they" say is true, it's just crazy!

SO, my first step this week, NO MORE DRYER SHEETS! I bought some 100% wool yarn (the kind of the label that says, hand wash) and made some yarn balls. I bought green and orange yarn. I think I may go and get a light color ball for lights (although colors are not supposed to run).

I used the directions here: Make Your Own Wool Dryer Balls

I skipped the core step and just made a ball the size I wanted it. I still need to do the felting process, and will see how much they shrink. I might have to add another layer on top.

With a credit on drugstore.com I purchased some lavender essential oil. (still yet to come!) And will put a few drops on the wool dryer ball. It will help give our clothes a light fresh scent.

Not only are the wool dryer balls cost effective, but are supposed to help shorten drying time, and leave your clothes I'll have to update and how my first load turns out!

For my non-FB readers

2011-04-17T23:56:00.001-04:00

I keep meaning to update the blog more. But I do Facebook instead. Here are some pictures for those of you who don't catch up with me elsewhere! :)

Kiddos playing outside!

Micah's favorite new stunt!!

It's flip flop weather!! :)

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Zoo with poppy

2011-04-06T01:06:00.001-04:00

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Hannah says Bible verses

2011-03-30T15:22:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Micah!

2011-03-16T15:26:00.006-04:00

One year ago today, I was in the hospital giving birth to my third child, Micah Evan Tillman! He was born at 12:34 PM. WONDERFUL! :) This sweet little baby boy has gone from this…

To my ALMOST WALKING, sweet, crazy, smiley, boy!

God has blessed me with all my children, and I am excited to celebrate his one year birthday today!! :)

And can you believe the boys look more and more like each other each day!! This is Andrew about 18 months...

And here is Micah. I know I have a better picture with his recently cut hair, but this one will do!

I love my family!

Rainboots

2011-03-09T14:37:00.001-05:00

It's the rainy season!

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Hannah turns 4!!

2011-03-06T22:46:00.002-05:00

Our baby girl turned 4!! There was SO much excitement leading up to her party. Invitations, party favors, shopping for princess plates, and decorating! Hannah loved it all. We had a great time with friends from church.

Here is Hannah with all her stuff, packed up and waiting to go to church.

Hannah and Alyssa.

All the princess and super hero party goers! :)

Mommy and Hannah with her cake.

One of Hannah's professional birthday photos.

Fighting Follow-Up

2011-02-18T21:28:00.002-05:00

I thought I should make a post about how we have been handling the fighting at our house. I was SO thankful for all the comments here on the blog and also on FB.

First, we have started role playing. Anytime the kids get upset at each other, I stop them and we calm down and act out again how everything should have happened. It is usually because a sibling or friend has taken a toy. So I make the offended calming ask nicely for the toy back, and the offender to give it back nicely (not throwing it at them) and say they are sorry. So far it is has worked well!

Funny story: I overheard a fight upstairs. Hannah had taken Andrew's beloved kitty cat off his bed. He was screaming for it. She calmly said, "Andrew, you must ask for it back nicely." He did and she gave it back. They are learning, now I just need to teach Hannah not to tease and take the toys in the first place!

Kids Fighting

2011-02-07T10:46:00.002-05:00

My children. They can't live without each other. But sometimes, it feels like they can't live with each other either, at least not without fighting, hitting, and annoying each other constantly! Whew. It's enough to wear a Mama out.

I really struggle with what to do with all the fussing and arguing.

Scenario One: All three kids playing upstairs. (me downstairs trying to get something done) Andrew starts screaming and crying and pitching a fit. Hannah could have hit him, taken a toy he thought he wanted, or even just looked at him wrong.

Do I: A. Run upstairs, break it up, and spank them all for not getting along. B. Call out from downstairs for them to play nicely or they will get in trouble. C. Do nothing and let them work on resolving the issue themselves.

I have done plan A many times, but then it seems I keep getting tattles that "Andrew looked mean at me" or "Hannah took my toy!" Instead of them trying to work it out. I want them to be able to problem solve, but how early to I start training them to do this?

Scenario Two: Fussing, fighting, and arguing (at the table, watching tv, in the car, WHEREVER!)

Do I: A. Step in right away and break it up, and spank them all. B. Wait until the arguing reaches more of a climax (we all have little squabbles once in awhile right?) or C. Use words to encourage them to play nicely.

Sigh. I can feel myself getting so frustrated with it all, I want to put them in time out for the WHOLE DAY or make them play in separate rooms, eat at different times, etc. What's a mom to do?

What do you Moms of multiple children do?

Time

2011-02-06T00:38:00.002-05:00

I hear two phrases said to me a lot.

1. "You've got your hands full!" (I do, most of the time. But I love it!)

2. "They (your children) grow up too fast! Enjoy these moments now."

I do have my hands full, but not too full. About the time my youngest get to be 9-12 months old I get a really good normal routine, am totally back to sleeping through the night, and feel like I could handle having another baby again. (this is NOT an announcement!) God planned to give Josh and I three kiddos and in His timing. He knows what I can handle and gives me grace to complete my "mommy-hood tasks" every day. I try and thank Him daily for the strength and wisdom He gives me to watch over my three precious children.

Now onto the second comment. Children DO grow, but NOT like weeds. Boy, whoever made up that never knew the weeds that live in my yard! This year/week/day will take just as long as 10 years from now. I don't loose any seconds tomorrow just because my kids are young. That being said, sometimes time does seem like to moves fast. But slow at the same time. I can't remember life without children, it seems like FOREVER or NEVER ago did we not have them. Yet, it has been just less than 4 years since we first met Hannah. I was holding Micah upstairs tonight (late because he woke up fussy) and snuggled with my cheek next to mine. Such a sweet moment. I remember at least one of those with Hannah and Andrew, savoring the sweet baby cuddle, knowing I won't be able to do it much longer. How precious.

So, while time can SEEM to fly while you're having fun. Take in a few moments to enjoy these cute pictures...

Josh camera editing this Andrew sticky face picture! From either chocolate ice cream or pudding. That kid loves his food!!

Crazy Micah face from Christmas. I need to take some pictures and videos of him cruising around. That boy is on the move and will be taking his first independent steps very soon!!

Hannah and Andrew at the New Years Eve celebrating at church.

The last good snowfall we had. Hannah and Andrew both LOVE the snow...

But Hannah was the only one who wanted to make snow angels!! :)

No Tip for Tuesday (which turned into a devotional!)

2011-01-25T11:45:00.002-05:00

I just thought I would post while I had a few minutes this morning. The kiddos are upstairs playing while I am doing laundry and trying to get motivated to make lunch.

I just ate my dessert while reading my Bible. James 5. I feel like I could read James everyday, and still get something new and totally different out of his teachings. Good stuff.

At church we have been going through the book of James on Sunday nights. I have enjoyed it. As our pastor has said before, "James afflicts the comfortable, and comforts the afflicted." So true. The end of James 4 talks about planning, going and doing this and that a year, and making a profit. What's wrong with planning? Nothing. James goes on to say, "you ought to say, if the Lord wills, we will do this." So nothing is wrong with planning (and lists!!) unless you leave God out of it.

If I am honest, and I am trying to be, I leave God out of my planning sometimes. I fail to ask Him what He would have me or our family to do. Whether it be today, tomorrow, or the long term goals for our life.

God, help me to abide in You today. Help me to seek Your will, and to include you in all my plans. Amen.

Comparing Smiles

2011-01-20T10:42:00.003-05:00

Hannah (15 months)

Micah (10 months)

Andrew (18 months)

They've all got the cheeks going on! :)

2010 Recap, and looking forward to 2011

2011-01-05T14:29:00.002-05:00

2010 was a great year for our family.

Recap by month:

January: Josh's birthday, cold and snow, but no frozen pipes!

February: Hannah Jacqueline turned 3.

March: Our sweet, happy, and bouncy Micah-Moo was born on the 16th.

April: The semester end? ha. And a visit from Mom Tillman

May/June: Visited a new church (FBC Fisherville) and called to attend

July: Andrew turned 2.

August: Steven and Laura came to visit. Josh and I celebrated 7 years of marriage, and went on a cruise. First time away from kids!!

September: Mom's 5 year death anniversary, and 5 years ago I lost my twin babies in womb. Put our house on the market.

October: My birthday.

November: First Thanksgiving dinner cooked and hosted by me. :) First Thanksgiving at home in over 10 years.

December: Christmas with 3 kiddos, my friend Kolby had her baby girl, Kinley. PLUS, to end the year Steven and Laura came to visit! :)

Through all this, we have had school, lots of homework, job uncertainty, a new babysitting job for me, family visits, internship for Josh, and the hard task of WAITING on the Lord.

We look forward to 2011.

Hopefully our house will sell, and we'll be able to move to a bigger house suited for our family.

At the end of 2011 we'll be only one semester away from Josh graduating with his Masters degree!!

My brother Wade will be marrying Jennifer Meade in September.

My brother in law Evan will be marrying Amanda Hall (June??).

And maybe, just maybe, Josh will have a full time ministry Job.

Blessing to all for a great 2011!

Tip for Tuesday

2011-01-04T16:46:00.001-05:00

Have old baby burp cloths and swaddling blankets?
We use ours in place of tissues for runny nose season. You can cut the blanket up, or keep it intact. Once dirty, was and reuse! Cuts down on waste, and feels better on a sore nose.

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Christmas Videos

2010-12-26T00:01:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas from the Tillman Family

2010-12-22T17:21:00.000-05:00

Photo Dump! :)

2010-12-18T20:24:00.002-05:00

I was going through pictures and wanted to post some. Enjoy! :)

Hannah in her Belle dress.

Decorating the tree.

Hannah on the playground one of the last warm days of fall.

Mom T's birthday! I think this is a good picture. :)

Micah, "YUM, Menu!"

Kids found this car at Toys R us. Hannah really thought we were going to buy this ($600) battery operated kids car. Sorry, sweetie. If Santa were real, maybe he'd get this for you. But, alas, he's not.

The kids favorite thing to do at Best Buy. ha.

Andrew. And his super sweet, cheesy smile. :)

Tip for Tuesday

2010-12-07T11:12:00.001-05:00

Do you wash your dishes with a sponge? To keep sponges fresh smelling and germ free, pop your damp sponge in the microwave and cook it for 2 minutes on high. It will kill the germs and help your sponge last longer.

December 2010

2010-12-06T20:56:00.002-05:00

The first day of December snuck up on me! Whew! I wasn't quite ready, but I am excited about celebrating Christmas with three kiddos in the house. :) Hannah asks almost every morning if it is Christmas day yet. SO, we have a count down paper chain to help. This year I left the fancy tree decorations out and let the kids put home made ornaments on and a few kid friendly ones from my childhood.

Here are a few of the snapshots from a few days ago.

Merry Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-12-03T12:54:00.001-05:00

Here is our Thanksgiving feast! :) Yes, it is already December and two small flurried snows later, I am posting our Thanksgiving picture. :) (my friend Kolby was taking this picture)

Free Christmas Cards Anyone?

2010-11-18T22:44:00.004-05:00

Free Christmas (photo) cards, anyone?

Me, me, pick me! :)

I LOVE getting things for free. And I LOVE Shutterfly. This summer, I got two different e-mails that gave me a FREE 8x8 photo book. How awesome is that! I just had to pay a few dollars for shipping, but I was able to print a book from our family summer, and our cruise.

Now, Shutterfly is offering 50 free Christmas cards if you blog about it! Awesomeness. One thing I must post is my favorite card layouts. It could be difficult. They have some good ones. Here are my favs: You can pick your favs by going here.

I like the cards with the multi photo spots.

This one the design in cute, and it covers Christmas and New Year in the greeting.

I think it is a cool idea because if I can fit all our year into a top ten, I won't have to send a Christmas letter, and people are most likely to remember our news than if they read a big page letter.

I like this one because of the meaning of Christmas conveyed.

Need some other items besides Christmas Cards? I have used Shutterfly photo cards for Father's Day, and thank you cards in the past. I have thought about doing photo mugs for presents too. Photo calendars are also a great gift idea. Almost everyone uses a calendar! If you celebrate Hanukkah, Shutterfly has you covered. Shutterfly also has cute ornaments. They have lots of neat stuff, and if you create an account you will get great e-mails with coupon codes and discounts throughout the year!

Want to know which one I'll be picking? Check your mailbox in December!! :)

Want information on how to get free cards for yourself?? GO HERE!!

My Birthday

2010-11-16T21:33:00.003-05:00

I just realized I didn't post any of my birthday pictures! My birthday fell on a Sunday this year so we did most of the birthday celebrations on Saturday and then Sunday we had church and lunch. Here are some birthday pictures, with my crazy kiddos! :)

(I love Hannah's crazy face, Andrew insisting on sitting on my lap, and sweet Micah far in the background in this picture!! :) )

YUM CAKE

Crazy family photo. ha.

Feeling Behind

2010-11-09T23:29:00.002-05:00

Everytime I hear Heather Payne's "Holy Holy Holy" song playing from my phone (my ringtone for almost everyone except Josh) I hope it is a call from our realtor saying we have a showing on our house. BUT, I almost dread it too. That means I have "X" amount of minutes or hours to get our house back into a perfect state. Whew. I have been letting the house go more and more as things have come up and "life happens". I feel overwhelmed and behind as I look at the growing piles of stuff that I need to put away, and organize. I feel like if I had a day or even an afternoon I might be able to catch up.

One thing eating up my time has been making hair bows and pillowcase dresses. I have a table at our church's holiday bazaar this Saturday and have 100+ bows and numerous dresses to sell. Every spare moment that the kids are in bed (my only free time) I have been making people princess bows, lining clips, and organizing my growing stash. I really do love the idea of putting my time into something like this and being able to make some money on the side, but I do miss my clean house!

I have also agreed to be the VBS director for summer 2011. Yep, planning time is already here! I have already had meetings for said VBS and am very excited where this new ministry will take me, and am humbled and thankful the Lord has equipped me with these talents to serve Him.

Thanksgiving this year will be different for the first time in 8+ years. We will not be going to Alabama to visit our Hunter relatives but staying here in Louisville since Josh (and my brother Wade) have crazy work schedules that week. We look forward to having a nice Thanksgiving here with Wade and also some other friends too.

Now that I have gotten the above off my mind, I will write an update about the kiddos! :)

Hannah - is 3 1/2 going on 25!! Our friend Kolby is about 36 weeks pregnant and Hannah just loves the idea of having a baby in ones "tummy". She tells me almost daily, "When I grow up, and get married, I am going to have a baby in my tummy too!" Today she added something about a ring. (I'm guessing wedding ring) :) Hannah LOVES princesses, Tinker Bell, high heeled shoes, and makeup. Unfortunately, Andrew thinks all these things are appropriate for him to like and try to wear too. ha!

Andrew - is 2. The terrible tantrum twos are upon us. Andrew is sweet most of the time, but those tantrums come up so fast you can't see them coming, and for the smallest things. He has also learned what annoys his sister in just the right way… socks in the face, touching favorite toys, snatching snacks, etc. Boys!! :) Overnight it seems, Andrew has started speaking in sentences instead of pointing and using hand gestures to make up for lack of words. It is wonderful! And sometimes I just laugh at what he says! This boy loves food, let me tell you. I'll ask him if he wants "X" and he'll respond, "Yes please, (points to open mouth) put it in my mouth!" ha!

Micah-Moo - is his nickname right now. I love it! He is my sweet boy who is not quite adjusting to the time change. He is eating lots of food, baby food, and some table food now. He looks at our plates so longingly I feel compelled to give him bites. For the most part he likes it. Micah has started saying "Ma-Ma", "Da-Da", and a few other sounds I can't remember, he waves two ways, claps his hands, and is starting to get on all fours and rock back and forth! I may have a crawler on my hands soon!! Micah still has no teeth for a 8 month old, :( I'm still trying to remember when the older two got their teeth.

Well, it is late and I must head to bed. I've got lots of kiddos to watch in the morning! Blessings to all.

The Month of October

2010-11-01T21:53:00.002-04:00

Where did it go? I can hardly believe it is November 1st! It was my 28th birthday yesterday and I had a great time. Saturday we celebrated by watching the Gator game, (eating birthday cake at halftime), and then going out to eat steak with our friends Kolby and Andrew. Sunday we went to church and did our normal Sunday activities.

This month has just flown by! I am still babysitting Carson and Sawyer three days a week. It has been great for my kids to have friends over a few days a week. Even though they have squabbles, I know that Hannah and Carson are good friends.

Josh is continuing on with school and cannot wait for the semester to be over. Me too.

Our house is still on the market and while we have had a few nibbles, no offers have been made yet and we are praying about our next step as the holiday season is approaching.

The kids are doing wonderful. Micah seems to be the only one really changing lots. He has started clapping, sitting up really well, trying to reach for things/crawl, and saying my favorite, "Ma-ma" and "Da-Da"!!

Kids playing grocery store!

2010-10-12T10:18:00.001-04:00

Andrew checking out and trying to protect his stuff.

Hannah realizing I was taking her picture!

Hannah checking out and Andrew waiting in line! :) Sawyer under foot trying to eat what he can.

Hannah and Carson

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Micah at 6 months

2010-10-01T22:35:00.005-04:00

With Hannah and Andrew I was much better about updating status on doctor visits, and posting weekly and monthly pictures. I guess things do change when you have your third child! That is one of the reasons I started this blog. I have a HUGE resource for finding information of my kiddos. I don't have to drag out baby books, or sort through piles of photos to remember what my kids looked like at 6 months where Micah is now. I enjoy comparing our kids just to remember and see how far they have come, and with Andrew and Micah, you can see how much they look alike!!

Micah had an uneventful 6 month checkup the beginning of last week. He weighed in at 18 pounds 5 ounces! That was 75% for his age!! (Hannah 15lbs 14oz) (Andrew 17lbs 5oz) I believe he was like 27 or 28 inches, but I don't totally remember. I did have two other kiddos in the room with me. :)

Micah 5 months (yeah, I need to get some pictures off my camera!)

Okay, so here are the photos to compare!!

Hannah at 6 months

Andrew at 6 months

In other news, no news on the house front. :( I am really trying not to get disappointed that no one has looked at our house this week. Pray for a quick sale!!

Josh is coming up on his fall break and has surgery planned to get his wisdom teeth taken out. I am still watching Carson and Sawyer and it is going well. Hannah really likes having a friend come over and play three days a week!

I end with a lesson God has been teaching me: I was watching my daughter outside, pitching a fit, stomping her feet and crying over a piece of chalk her brother was holding (which she wanted). I suddenly saw myself as how God must see me, when I become impatient, things do not go the way I planned, and I stomp my feet and fuss. How silly to cry over something so insignificant. Why do I not trust God, as He has the power, control, and authority over my life. Why become upset over what someone else has? As pastor said on Sunday, God is immutable. He is always good. He can never be anything but good, and He is good to us.

House on the Market!

2010-09-24T17:46:00.003-04:00

Not much time to write lately. I have been SUPER busy getting our house ready and doing a million and one things around the house. We officially put our house on the market Thursday! We are staying in the Louisville area, but want a bigger house, closer to work and church, and also to take advantage of great interest rates that are out there.

We are praying for a quick sale, wouldn't it be wonderful to be writing from a different home this Christmas!?!

Keep us in your prayers. We pray the right buyer would come along! The crazy clean freak is coming out in me! Before we leave the house, or I sit down for that matter, I try to make sure it is worthy of a showing at any moment! Whew! :) We do have our first showing tomorrow. I am trying with ALL MY MIGHT not to get my hopes up.

I'll post news when it happens.

GG's Birthday and My Matching Boys

2010-09-18T21:33:00.002-04:00

We celebrated GG's birthday while we were in Jax. (We also celebrated Josh's Mom's birthday but somehow we don't have pictures of that!) Here are Hannah and Andrew with GG. :)

GG had extra help blowing out all the candles. Hannah helped me put on the candles and insisted of one kind and color of each candle going on the cake! :)

Before church the other week. Both my boys in their matching polo shirts and tan shorts! :) Micah still wasn't really awake. hee hee

Cruise Pictures

2010-09-18T21:26:00.002-04:00

On the beach (ship in the background)

Beautiful Sunset!
The beach at Half Moon Cay

Looking down on the Lido Deck
I had to include just one picture of all the wonderfully amazing food we had on the cruise! :)

We had a blast and I am so glad Josh planned this cruise for our vacation/anniversary! :)

1,000 Gifts: The Goodness of God

2010-09-07T13:38:00.002-04:00

101. God's provision for us in the little things

102. Being able to "rest" and know God knows how it will all work out

103. The great fellowship of new friendship at our new church

104. Serving the Lord with your spiritual gifts

105. The grace,

106. peace,

107. hope,

108. mercy,

109. and wisdom He gives me daily as I seek to train my children

110. The comfort I have to know I will see my Mom again one day

111. Knowing my Mom (and God) have my extra 3 little ones in Heaven

112. Joy, somehow through the pain

113. Seeing God bless a blogging friend through the foster care/adoption process (Cilla!)

114. The assurance of salvation

115. The conviction of sin

116. A good morning sermon

117. Hannah learning to sit (quietly) through a church service!

118. Singing the days of creation with my kids

119. And being amazed how God really did make it ALL in 6 days!

120. Knowing God is certainly not finished with me yet!

Hello

2010-09-01T21:37:00.002-04:00

I know I am super far behind on the updates! Our past few weeks:

- I started watching 2 more kiddos 3 days a week. So far so good. :)

- Josh and I went on a cruise, LOVED IT, had tons of fun

- Kids got spoiled at Grandma and Grandpa's house! :)

- Josh started the semester

Whew! More updates and pictures to come soon!

1,000 Gifts : Celebrating this Week

2010-08-16T21:15:00.003-04:00

71. Good naps from the kiddos so I could finish painting the garage

72. A husband that planned a cruise for us

73. The cruise is THIS week!

74. 6 days to spend with my hubby :)

75. My mother-in-law who is watching the kiddos while we go on the cruise

76. A van to get us to Jacksonville

77. The 7 years we have been married

78. The exciting future ahead

79. That Josh and I get to do it together

80. And with the 3 kiddos God has blessed us with

81. A working washing machine

82. And dryer

83. At my house

84. The plethora of clothes for each family member

85. Figuring out a new function of my earphones

86. A slightly cooler day / night

87. A part time (babysitting) job for me

88. And a new friend for Hannah to play with

89. The strength God gives me to care for 5 kiddos 3 & under

90. That Josh will be home part of the time to help me each week

91. Veggie Tales DVD's in the mail from my Aunt

92. The Bible songs CD that came in the mail today

93. Seeing the kids faces light up where they hear a familiar Bible song playing :)

94. Hearing Andrew say new words, and beginning to form sentences

95. Teaching my kids the scripture

96. A quiet moment to be able to document and reflect on all the things I am thankful for

97. A good scrabble match

98. Plenty of pennies to throw into the fountain (at the mall)

99. Free Chick-fil-A texts on Friday

100. Stress free outings with the kids

Update

2010-08-15T23:17:00.002-04:00

I've posted a few new entries tonight, so scroll down to enjoy the pictures!!

Here are a few random ones I wanted to add as well.

Micah is starting to enjoy the exosaucer! He still gets a little scared if Andrew comes put and starts playing noisily with the toys on there. I can't believe my little baby boy will be 5 months old tomorrow!!!!

I'm gonna have this crazy crew 3 days a week!! (from right) Carson, Hannah, Micah, Andrew, and Sawyer!! Five kiddos ages 5 months to 3! :)

Family picnic after church one week… we were waiting on the Krispy Kreme family opening.

Me and Andrew while at the family reunion in South Caroline. I don't even remember getting this picture taken, but I like it.

And finally…

Micah! Such a funny angle and face. :) Micah is full of life, smiles, giggles, and sweetness!! :)

Faces of Micah

2010-08-15T23:13:00.002-04:00

As captured by Josh :)

Creation Museum New Pictures

2010-08-15T22:41:00.003-04:00

Some new pictures from Josh's phone. :)

Andrew looking at the turtles.

Josh and Andrew

Kind of in the middle but I wanted to post. :) Kids riding on Uncle Steven (horsey)'s back.

Walking through the Genesis 1 exhibit. (notice Andrew's face is the only blurry thing!? That boy has the hardest time keeping still!)

In the "final Adam" movie theater… Micah was hungry!

Josh feeding a horse/zebra. Can't remember what they call it.

In the "Ark" exhibit. This was close to one of my favorite parts. You feel like you are walking through the ark construction! :)

In the creation video part of the tour. LOVE Hannah's face here. :)

Kroger run

2010-08-11T20:25:00.000-04:00

I hit Kroger again today and got some awesome deals!!!

I got:
8 Sobe Lifewater
4 V8 Fusion bottles
3 chocolate milk
1 gallon whole milk
1 bottle Juicy Juice
1 dozen eggs - free
1 Ruffles chips - free
2 Toaster Strudel
2 Smart Balance butter

Saved $42
Spent only $14!!!

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Creation Museum

2010-08-09T14:18:00.002-04:00

Ok, so here are some of the Creation Museum/Cincinnati Trip pictures. Josh has some much better pictures on his phone, but hasn't loaded on the computer yet!

Laura and Hanna in the Garden of Eden (standing in the "sunlight") :)

(hot) Hannah, but enjoying feeding the sheep and goats!

Me and Micah

We were somewhere in the museum, just not sure where. He was just enjoying riding around in the Moby wrap!

Feeding the animals

And here is one of Hannah and Andrew playing in a kiddy bed at the Ikea store. I'll have to get my hands on Josh's phone to publish some more pictures!

Family: 1,000 Gifts

2010-08-05T21:07:00.002-04:00

52. My brother Steven

53. My sister-in-law Laura

54. Quality time with family

55. Watching my kids wrestle with their Uncle Steven

56. Watching my kids laugh and play with their Aunt Laura

57. Having help on projects

58. New siding on our garage!!

59. Family road trips that go smoothly

60. Great clothing deals at the GAP clearance store

61. The Creation Museum, and all that they stand for

62. Being reminded how big and smart God is

63. For my salvation

64. Our church family

65. A good chuckle during (church) business meeting

66. Sweet picnic with my boys

67. Micah's funny face after trying apple sauce for the first time

68. FaceTime with Josh

69. Andrew's expanding vocabulary

70. Josh giving Micah a bath so I can put my feet up for a few minutes :)

Update

2010-08-04T16:30:00.002-04:00

The Tillman's have been having lots of fun this summer. We just got done having a visit with Steven and Laura. We had a blast!! :) The kids loved seeing their aunt and uncle.

I'll have to post pictures of their visit another day.

Here is a cute picture of Micah in a Gator outfit. :) Micah has also found his feet this month, and has also started eating rice cereal. He doesn't really like it. :)

Hannah and Andrew have been playing together better and better. Andrew landed a visit to the ER by getting his hand caught in the sliding van door. Thankfully nothing was broken!!

Here is a picture of the kids living it up in the ER room. The nurses brought them juice, toys, coloring pages, and even put on CARS movie for them.

Josh and I have been busy starting our new rolls in the church. I have taken over SS attendance and rolls along with a few other things. Josh has been working on music and leading it himself on Sunday nights! I am proud of him.

We have also (thanks to the help of Steven and Laura!!) re-sided our garage!! It looks SO much better now, but we have to brave the heat again and paint it. Pictures of that to come soon!! :)

Babies & Kids: 1,000 Gifts

2010-07-24T10:15:00.002-04:00

Continuing my thankfulness I was reminded of a few more things over breakfast this morning.

38. Kissing chubby baby cheeks

39. Sweet smelling (clean) kiddos!

40. Dimpled baby elbows

41. The pleasure of sleeping in after a Micah 3am wake up call

42. Devotions with the kids this morning

43. The freedom to teach my kids about Jesus

44. Singing Bible Verse songs

45. New babysitting job

46. Church fellowship tomorrow

47. Coffee

48. Coffee Milk for kiddos

49. A potty trained little girl :)

50. My brother Wade, it's his birthday tomorrow

51. Florida Gator baby outfits :) (Thanks GG!)

All is well at our house and as you can tell from my last few posts I have been focusing on the positive and all the blessings that God has given our family! :)

More Thankfulnes: 1,000 Gifts

2010-07-21T10:10:00.002-04:00

21. Strawberry Supreme Frozen Yogurt

22. Food - oh my I talk about food way too much!

23. A stocked pantry, knowing that we will never go hungry

24. That God takes care of me, in-spite of me

25. Finding the full sheet of stamps that I lost - THANK YOU JESUS!

26. Taking the kids to eat lunch with their Daddy at work

27. "ABC" alphabet magnets (kids love them!)

28. My phone

29. Modern technology to help me keep in touch with family far away

30. A calm (and spanking free) meal with the kids

31. New school supplies

32. A really good sale

33. Finding out my friend is having a healthy baby girl!

34. Nice blog comments :)

35. I'm really trying to resist posting about food! :)

36. A possible part time babysitting job

37. My Owl City (Ocean Eyes) Cd

catch up on my previous entry here...

Thankfulness: 1,000 Gifts

2010-07-19T14:46:00.002-04:00

My friend Anna over at Hope Road Blog has been posting her way to 1,000 gifts/reasons to be thankful and I always enjoy reading it. I decided I wanted to start this myself! :) If you are interested in reading some of Anna's stuff click on her blog title for the link.

1. My husband

2. All three of my kids napping at the same time

3. Packages in the mail from family

4. Coupons in the mail

5. A cold glass of Coke

6. A good haircut

7. Sleeping in

8. Hugs from Hannah and Andrew

9. Sweet smiles an coos from Micah

10. A church home

11. The rush I get from organizing

12. A dishwasher

13. Skype

14. Air conditioning on a hot day

15. A working vehicle to take me anywhere I need to go

16. Quiet moments

17. A good stash of diapers

18. Hearing a good friend is pregnant

19. Internet

20. Sunshine

More to come…!

Happy 2nd Birthday Andrew!!!!

2010-07-13T13:51:00.005-04:00

So this first pictures is not of Andrew, but blogger is not letting me move photos around… Look at cute little Micah on Josh's shoulders! :)

Birthday Lunch! Homemade chicken nuggets, fries, gatoraide, and birthday cake! :)

Big Brother and Sister!

Andrew with present from Alabama Hunters! :)

New favorite "animals" Wall-E and Bolt!!

Nemo Sunglasses

Diggin' into cake!

New sunglasses, his Bolt and Wall-E, and his new tennis shoes!! :)

Happy Birthday to my sweet Andrew! Daddy and I love you so much and we love to see how much you are growing up and learning every day! Kisses and Hugs! Love, Mommy and Daddy

Also took 3 videos: (click the words for the link!)

Singing Happy Birthday and Cake

Opening Presents

Birthday Interview

Chick-Fil-A Dress Like a Cow "Holiday"

2010-07-13T13:43:00.003-04:00

This is a great Tillman tradition every year and I hope we always live near a Chick-fil-A to continue this on! Chick-fil-A has a "dress like a cow" holiday every year. Dress fully like a cow get a free meal, for breakfast, lunch, or dinner (or possibly all three?)!!

Here are the Tillman Bovines:

Minus Micah! I didn't dress him. But watch out buddy, you'll have to next year! :)

Andrew at zoo

2010-07-06T19:26:00.000-04:00

I like the lion!

YouTube Video

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Cvs trip

2010-07-06T19:11:00.000-04:00

Paid .52 for tide and 6 sobe lifewater!! (not all sobe shown) :)

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

My first phone post!

2010-06-25T22:45:00.001-04:00

Took this video this morning of sweet Micah talking to me. Too bad he woke me up extra early this morning for it too! Enjoy!! :)

YouTube Video

- Posted by Joanna using BlogPress from my iPhone

Pictures

2010-06-23T14:36:00.003-04:00

Went and got pictures done today

Here they are! I think they turned out great! :)

Products I love

2010-06-21T14:12:00.002-04:00

Product NUMBER ONE that has made my life so much easier is the SWIFFER SWEEPER VAC. Let me just tell you how much I hate to sweep my floors with a broom and dust pan. Kiddos get into everything, bending down, trying to get all the dirt and dust into the pan… yuck. BUT the vacuum part picks up dirt, dust, and food up to the size of Cheerios, while the standard swiffer cloth picks up all the dust bunnies, hair, etc. It is the perfect duo. The box claims it will work better than your dust pan and broom or your money back. (I'm not sure how the money back works because I'll never have to use it!) Retails for $39.99 (but some other stores, like Meijer sell it for $28 and have 20% off sales a few times a year)

My next item is my Shark Steam Mop!! I got it for Mother's Day and LOVE IT. I don't have to worry about buying chemicals to put on my floor, and it cleans and sanitizes so fast. I Swiffer Sweep, then mop, and my whole house is like done in less than 30 minutes! Retails for $119 (Bed Bath and Beyond or Kohls sell it and you can use your 20% off coupons too!)

Lastly, one for the kiddies: Take N Toss Cups with lids and straws (we don't toss them for several months!). These work super great if you hate sippy cups with all the little pieces. (like me!) The first few weeks you use it the cup will be spill proof because the seal around the lid and straw is really tight. This does weaken over time. The picture below is from Amazon.com where you can buy theme cups with Cars, Mickey, Tinkerbell, Thomas the Train, etc. The basic color ones can be bought at Target and other stores. Retail: $3.99 for a 3 pack.

Monday Thoughts

2010-06-21T13:51:00.002-04:00

Here is it Monday again! The weeks seem to be getting faster this year. Micah turned 3 months old last week and is growing and changing so much every day. Last night he slept upstairs in his big boy bed, in his big boy room, shared with his big brother Andrew! Last night was harder for me than I ever thought. Micah did great and woke up 13 hours later happy and ready to start the day. :)

Andrew has started the terrible two's a few weeks early. sigh. He has started screaming/screeching when he doesn't get his way, to get dressed, to go to bed/nap, and taking a bath. This seems like 95% of the time! We are trying to approach this with godly discipline and seek the Lord for guidance. (spare the rod, spoil the child!) Whew. BUT, when he is sweet my Andrew is SUPER SWEET, and when he is in a FUNNY MOOD, we all laugh.

Hannah is my potty trained princess! :) She is adjusting to our new church/new class well. She has also been doing great going potty and no accidents, even at night! I am so proud of her. There is no sign of the key she swallowed, but I am sure it has passed already and I missed it. Hannah recently got a Tinkerbell princess dress from Grandma and Grandpa to celebrate her potty training success. When she puts on the dress she asks me to make her fly. :)

Me and Josh - we have adjusted to a family of 5 and are enjoying this hot summer. The two weeks we were apart while the kids and I went down to Alabama were hard, but we are back together at last. :) We all have started attending First Baptist Church of Fisherville (KY) and are really enjoying it. Josh and I began the new members class and in a few weeks will be official members. In August I will begin teaching a children's Sunday School class, and Josh will be helping with music as well as starting his internship. We are excited about this new church, new opportunities to serve, and new people to get to know.

Home at Last

2010-06-10T22:34:00.002-04:00

We are finally home from our two week vacation (me and kiddos only)! We had lots of fun visiting Josh's mom who was on a business trip in Nashville and then spending the rest of our time in Alabama visiting my Aunt Sharon, Uncle Bob, and cousins!

My Aunt Sharon's best friend Gail, has a nice indoor pool and we went swimming two days while there. It was a lot of fun. Micah even got in on it! Here are some pictures from the pool.

Hannah and Andrew

My swimmin' boy

Micah's first swim ever!

We had tons and tons of fun visiting family and me not having to do any household chores or cook!! :) Josh missed us TONS and we are glad to be back home and are adjusting back to the Eastern Time Zone.

In other news… food battles have gotten pretty bad with Hannah. Somehow early on we let it go and Hannah go super picky only eating chicken unless it was in breaded nugget form, etc. While in AL I was given the encouragement to stay strong in my food battle and it is really starting to pay off! Tonight, I made this super yummy Jenny-O turkey breast and mashed potatoes. Two things that Hannah would never normally even touch, but tonight she took a bite of each and even ate ALL her turkey! I am so proud of Hannah and had to take this picture to send to Tay-tay! :)

The empty plate!!!!!

So you don't think I am leaving Andrew out he is growing and talking like crazy! He repeats everything and is now starting to make sentences. He can put his own shoes on and even tries to get this self dressed. Andrew is such a ham and I know he is going to be the life of the party and will enjoy giving everyone a good laugh. My sweet boy is growing up and I can't believe he will be two next month!

Sweet Micah is changing EVERY DAY. Oh my. Today he started kicking his own legs to bounce himself in the bouncy seat! He loves to "talk" and smile (and flirt!). Micah has also giggled for the first time this week, found his hands and started grabbing his blanket, pulling it up to his mouth, and chewing on it! Oh I love my sweet sweet baby and can't believe he will be 3 months next week!!!

Sound asleep on daddy… look at those sweet hands… :)

Summer Fun

2010-06-01T15:59:00.002-04:00

Poppy (my Dad) with his three grand kiddos!

Emily sharing her drink with Andrew at the ice skating rink.

(sideways) Princess Tinkerbell Hannah!! :)

Swimming!

Me and my sweet baby Micah! Who is still waking me up in the middle of the night to eat. But, I know I will miss him when he starts sleeping through the night.

I know he is wearing a "Baby's First 4th of July" shirt, but it was still patriotic and worked for Memorial Day!

In other news, HANNAH NOW GOES POTTY!!! With six days in we have had great sucess and only two accidents! Mommy is the most excited. :)

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-09T22:50:00.003-04:00

When Josh and I first discussed Mother's Day this year we thought Josh would have to work which meant I would be home with the kiddos all by myself. But, Josh was able to get off today and we had a great family day together! We went to church, got a free meal at Qdoba, went to the mall, and lastly got free frozen custart at Culver's. All in all we had a great day. In the past I have not been good about taking pictures on Mother's Day and this year I wanted to get a picture with each of my special kiddos and then one shot together. The last proved to be a challenge, but we pulled it off. :)

Me and my sweet princess, helper Hannah!!

(who said to me yesterday, "Mommy, I don't want to wear diapers anymore, just big girl panties!" When I asked if this meant she would now go on the potty she said, NO! Hmmm…)

My SWEET big boy Andrew who loves his Mommy very much. Poor guy he has been working on a few teeth this weekend and wasn't feeling very good.

My beautiful baby boy Micah!! I loved this first Mother's Day with him. He loves to smile and talk all the time now and I just love it! It melts my heart. I wish I could get more of them on camera!!

Me and my Kiddos!!

Happy Mother's Day to all the mother's out there, and the mommas to be!! And to my Mommy, who never got to celebrate a Mother's Day as a Grandma. I love you so much and miss you!

Fun Comparison

2010-05-05T14:33:00.002-04:00

ALL of my kids have LOVED the bouncy seat. I thought I would do a fun comparison of what each child looked like at Micah's current age (around 6wks - 8wks).

Hannah

Andrew

Micah

Look at those faces! They could be triplets!

Easter Pics

2010-04-29T16:47:00.002-04:00

Waiting for Mommy and Daddy to "hide" the eggs.

Daddy and Andrew

Brother and Sister

My football egg!

Super model pose!! :)

Micah's First Bath & Superhero night at Chick-fil-A

2010-04-29T16:39:00.003-04:00

Micah's first sink bath! :)

Our family at Superhero and Princess Night at Chick-fil-A

My Princess Hannah

My big boy Superhero Andrew

My littlest Superhero Micah

A new normal

2010-04-21T17:05:00.004-04:00

We are trying to settle into a new normal. I don't get on the computer much these days. I maybe get to hop on for a minute or two to check Facebook and e-mail, but having a new baby and three small kiddos to care for has REALLY taught me how to manage my time even better. This usually means giving up computer time.

I have some random pictures from the past week below for you to enjoy...

my Micah

Andrew with Hannah's chef hat

cheese Hannah :)

mommy and Micah late at night...

my cutsie pa-tootsie!! :)

Baby Micah Hospital Photo

2010-04-04T19:51:00.002-04:00

The hospital I delivered at started out sourcing their newborn baby pictures. All I can say is WOW! We had a great session and FINALLY his baby photo is up on the hospital website. I guess there was a glitch that it took them so long to get our photo up. Anyways.... Click HERE!!

Sleep Deprived, but Still Alive

2010-03-25T20:21:00.003-04:00

The Tillman family of FIVE is still here in Louisville, Kentucky, but Mommy and Daddy are quite sleep deprived!! I guess that almost goes without saying with a newborn in the house. We are adjusting to a new "normal" and I am beginning to try and figure out a daily routine as well as figure out the best way to leave the house and shop with three little ones in tow. Here are a few pictures...

Me and Micah trying out the new Moby wrap I got.

Sweet Micah sleeping and the hat pushing his cute ears out. :)

Baby blue eyes...

Emily and Andrew hanging out in the chair.

Hannah in her french braid pigtails my Aunt Sharon did in her hair.

Micah and Our Family

2010-03-20T00:51:00.002-04:00

Mommy and Micah right after birth

Daddy and his boys

Grandma with Hannah and Micah

awake and alert!!

Uncle Wade with all three kiddos

Micah Evan Tillman is Here!

2010-03-17T21:49:00.002-04:00

Micah Evan Tillman arrived at 12:34pm on March 16, 2010

He weighed in at 7lbs 12oz and is 21 inches long

Today Micah got some pictures made and they are AMAZING! The hospital hired a new kind of baby photographer to take pictures and it is great.

To view the pictures long in here: http://www.bellababyphotography.com/baby/login and use password 0316micahtillman

Hannah loves her new baby brother Micah and Andrew just misses mommy not being home. More to come later!! :)

38 Weeks 3 Days

2010-03-12T14:53:00.002-05:00

I'm having TONS and TONS of annoying and most of the time painful contracts but they don't seem to be excessively consistent so I sit (or clean & play) and wait. Sigh. This is always the hardest part!

Please pray I get to meet baby Micah sooner than later!!

38 Weeks, and Late Hannah B'day Pics

2010-03-09T13:18:00.004-05:00

I had my 38 week checkup today and am now 2cm and still 50% effaced. That is good news for me! We have had some wonderful weather the past two days with sunshine and highs almost to 70. It's been GREAT! The kids and I have had two nice days to go to the park and that has helped cure our cabin fever. :)

Josh has finals and midterms coming up this next week. They all seem to be perfect timing with Micah's impending arrival. (Maybe this means his professors will be a bit lax with him!)

I realized I had not posted a few of Hannah's actual birthday pictures so here they are. Somehow blogger is not letting me move these around once I upload them so they are a bit out of order...

This is Hannah's new comforter for her bed that she got from Josh's parents. I LOVE IT! SOOOO cute!! :)

Her birthday cake

Singing Happy Birthday to you...

Hannah sitting at her Tinker Bell table watching a Tinker Bell movie with her new Tinker Bell dolls! This birthday was a Tinker Bell birthday with a castle cake. Just what Hannah wanted! :)

Hannah's new bike she got from my Dad and Jane. Her birthday balloons are attached.

(Tip: in case you didn't know Dollar Tree sells awesome balloons and they only cost $1 each!!)

Me and Hannah at her birthday breakfast at Cracker Barrel. I love my sweet girl!!

Hopefully my next post (AND REALLY SOON) will be about the birth of Micah!!! :)

37 Week Checkup

2010-03-04T13:59:00.003-05:00

I went with the doctor again today for my 37 week 2 day checkup. The kiddos came with me because Josh had seminary class. They did pretty good. The OB I saw today LOVES when kids come visit with their mommies. She is the one who delivered Andrew 20 months ago!

I am a little farther along just being over 1 cm dilated but she didn't tell me my effacement. I was 50% last week. We went ahead and scheduled my induction for March 16th - just 12 DAYS AWAY!!!!!!! I really would love to go into labor before this, but am excited to know that at max it will be 12 days. SO EXCITING!!

Please keep myself and baby Micah in your prayers. Pray that I wouldn't be too uncomfortable and could get as much sleep as possible during these last few days. Pray for Micah that he would continue to grow and remain healthy through birth. :)

37 Weeks & FULL TERM!

2010-03-02T09:34:00.003-05:00

Here I am 37 weeks pregnant! Only max 2 weeks left until I meet my new little boy. Yay!! It seems right after I had my 36 week checkup my body knew it needed to get ready for labor. I have been having lots and lots more contractions but none that have kicked into labor yet. Any day now is great and I am ready!!

Hannah had a great birthday. We Skyped with family which made the day special for Hannah and everyone got to see her open their presents. I'll post pictures soon I promise! :)

Hannah's 3 Year Old Pictures

2010-02-26T16:51:00.002-05:00

36 Week Visit

2010-02-24T21:20:00.002-05:00

Well at my doctor visit this week nothing had changed in my status as far as progressing towards labor. BUT I am still only 36 weeks (I keep reminding myself...!!) and have Hannah's 3rd birthday celebration to plan for this weekend.

I am so excited about Hannah's 3rd birthday. She has been talking about it for weeks and I can't wait to see her excitement when she sees her birthday cake, balloons, and presents. She is growing up so fast!

36 Weeks

2010-02-23T00:08:00.002-05:00

So I forgot to post after my 35 week dr visit last week. Everything is going normal. The dr said Micah's heartbeat was fast (but what does that mean?). I am measuring on schedule. I was already 50% effaced and about a 1/2 cm dilated. I go back again Wednesday morning. I'll try and remember to post then!

35 Weeks, Snow, and Table

2010-02-15T20:21:00.002-05:00

35 WEEKS!! :) Two weeks until full term and I am getting extra excited! My friend Anna gave birth to a baby boy last week and it has made me anxious to meet my sweet Micah. I know he will be here before I know it. Here is a picture of me from Valentine's. I should have moved my arm, it would have showed off my bump a little better...

Making banana bread! YUMMY! :)

Our snowman!!

Our new dining room table! The kids are standing on the bench. We have made a rule since this picture was taken (and several head bonks later) that no kids are allowed to play on the bench.

Our back yard.

Is it closer than I think?

2010-02-08T11:18:00.002-05:00

I feel like Micah has dropped. My bladder certainly feels it!
I AM waddling. :)
Everything labor intensive has gotten harder.
I've been having more contractions (on and off) and cramps.
Dr appt tomorrow afternoon - we'll see what they say!
34 weeks and counting!

So Green

2010-01-24T22:37:00.002-05:00

Here are some cute pictures from the other day. I love them in this green color!! :)

Updates:

Josh - starts school this week. :( We have really enjoyed this break with him more more!

Joanna - 32 weeks here I come! 7 weeks to go and my memory is suffering.

Hannah - has decided my name is no longer "mommy" - it is "mom" This makes me feel way too old. Can I be "mommy" again?

Andrew - has been running a fever for the past few days now. Lots and lots of cuddles have been happening, but we still haven't figured out why he is running such a high temp.

That is pretty much the update on us. Lots happening in the up and coming weeks. Keep us in your prayers!!

Josh's Birthday

2010-01-20T23:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Josh's 27th birthday! He had the day off and we had a very relaxing day. I made bacon, eggs, and toast for brunch after we slept in. We played some Wii while the kids were napping and then went out to eat at Red Robin. Kolby and Andrew Nordine came too and we had a lot of fun!

Our family at Red Robin.

Josh and kiddos with his cake.

And then I couldn't resist posting cute pictures of the kiddos!! :) This picture of Hannah was taken after I trimmed her hair. I also flat ironed it to make sure I got a straight haircut. She looks so grown up and cute! :)

Here is a cute smiley picture of Andrew and Red Robin. I am so glad Andrew is such a happy guy - AND good sleeper. :)

30 Weeks

2010-01-13T14:22:00.001-05:00

I had my 30 week checkup today!

This was the first visit in awhile I had to take the kids with me since Josh was working. It was the quickest visit EVER. I signed in and we had just sat down when they called my name to come back. Once they did all my routine stuff we went to the exam room and within 5 minutes the doctor came in. Yay! It was a great and quick visit. I am measuring right along, gaining weight good, and baby Micah's heartbeat was strong.

This pregnancy is coming quickly to an end and I am getting even more excited!! :) Please pray that everything would continue to go smoothly.

The First Snow of 2010

2010-01-10T20:05:00.002-05:00

We got about 2-4 inches of snow earlier this week and it is STILL on the ground due to below freezing temperatures.

This was the first year that Hannah enjoyed the snow and was okay to walk around in it. She had lots of fun using her gloved hand to brush the snow off the cars, deck chairs, and table.

Here's my little snow bunny!

You can't tell in these pictures but the snow was still falling pretty good.

Update: Our Kiddos

2010-01-04T19:58:00.002-05:00

I have been meaning to update about the kiddos and all the new and exciting stuff they are up to.

Hannah:

My sweet girl will be three next month! She is a great Mommy's helper and totally blossoming into a wonderful young lady but with a three-year-old-attitude that can be tiring. I pray the Lord gives me wisdom and guidance as I try and live out an example of a godly woman, wife, and mommy. This week we moved Hannah downstairs to our spare room to her new big girl room. She is really enjoying this special time with her new room. She wants to be in there all the time! She has also taken on her first chores! She helps me set and clear the table before and after meals. I love having this help!

Andrew:

My SWEET cheeks baby - now big boy! Oh how I love this cute cheesy smile!! My Andrew is so cuddly but is turning into a big boy and I am enjoying this new phase and watching him grow and develop. Andrew has favored his left hand for awhile now, so I am pretty sure he is going to be left handed. This is new for me. Andrew has also decided he wants to use a fork or spoon to eat everything. I am trying hard to let him do it all himself - I do have to say he is doing it quite well, it just takes him forever to eat! Andrew is learning new words every day and just recently started saying "baby" and also at the same time taken up an interest in one particular baby of Hannah's. He holds and "pets" her. So sweet. I know he will make a great big brother!

Micah:

I am 29 weeks along. Hurray! I LOVE this active baby boy inside of me. Nesting has been a theme for me this week and I am glad to be doing all the physical labor now when I am still feeling pretty good. I have to go have my glucose test again this week. Only 10 more weeks until I meet my Micah!!

Christmas Pictures

2009-12-27T22:36:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas! We had a warmer Christmas than I hoped for and so it was rainy instead of a snowy Christmas. We had a good Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with only a few meltdowns. :) The kids enjoyed opening presents and playing with new toys. We also talked to family via Skype which was great for the grandparents and family to see the kiddos. The Cummings family came over for Christmas dinner and I was glad most of the food I made was eaten! Here are a few pictures from the day. (somehow I was only the photographer and not photographed)

I do have to also say these are all out of order because blogger is not letting me reorganize them.

Hannah and Andrew at Hannah's new princess table she got from Grandma and Grandpa.

Josh and his football reindeer stocking.

Hannah and her stocking.

Andrew and his stocking.

Kids in their matching sweaters. I even have a newborn one for Micah that looks just like Andrew's!! :) I can't wait to get my boys matching things. I love how Andrew is smiling at Hannah in this picture.

Both looking. I can see my Mom's smile in Andrew's grin. (I miss you Mom!!)

Hannah with her new playdoh set.

Opening the big present from Grandma and Grandpa!! (we made her open it last)

Andrew opening a present. (oh so serious!)

Happy New Year! I can't wait for 2010 and to meet my sweet (and very active) Micah!!

What's on your shirt, Andrew? A football!

2009-12-15T13:50:00.003-05:00

It is December?

2009-12-07T13:57:00.002-05:00

I can't hardly believe the date every time I write it. December already?! Ever since last year I have been planning for this Christmas and tree. I got a pre-lit tree on clearance at Target last year and have been buying Gator ornaments and blue and orange decorations all year. Here is our new tree!

Thanks to Grandma Dot and Josh's parents we already have TONS of presents under the tree!! :) Thankfully Andrew has been doing really good keeping his hands off the presents. He mostly likes the blue and orange "candy canes" around the bottom of the tree. The kids most favorite thing is the singing Christmas mice I have gotten over the years. This year I have already replaced the batteries in 3 of the 7 mice. ha ha

In family news, Josh has finished the semester and his finals. YEAH! We are happy to get him a few extra hours a day.

Hannah has become the performer and loves to make toys and other items her microphone and sing and dance along the couch. She also likes Mommy and Andrew to be her class so she can tell a story about Jesus. So sweet!

Andrew has become such a big boy. He is going to make a great big brother. He has started helping Mommy with laundry, diapers, and anything else I will let him help with. He is so loving and given me big hugs and kisses. I love my boy!

Baby Micah is SUPER active and loves it when I drink my daily dose of caffeine. He dances and kicks around so much. We all can't wait to meet him in March!!!!!

Merry Christmas Season!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T21:44:00.001-05:00

We had a great time with family in Alabama for Thanksgiving and the "Hunter Family Olympics"!!

Our place setting turkeys from the dinner table.

Josh and Hannah at the table.

Joanna and Andrew

The picture takers taking a group shot. (the view from our side)

Dad, me, and kiddos

21 Weeks

2009-11-11T20:48:00.002-05:00

I am just past 21 weeks this week and am over half way to meeting baby!! It is so exciting to think about. I feel like I haven't been showing that much at all if any. BUT, I wonder if I have "popped" overnight? This picture seems to show a little more of a bump that I thought I had.

Baby seems to be moving ALL the time and I can feel some really good kicks. It is so comforting feeling him move and know he is okay!

We have decided on a name for baby brother. (drum roll please...)

Micah Evan Tillman

Hannah is already asking about "baby Micah" and getting things ready for "baby Micah in Mommy's tummy"! So sweet! Andrew... doesn't have a clue. That's okay! I know he'll be excited to have a little brother.

More news is on the horizon and I hope to be updating soon!

Brother and Sister

2009-11-05T17:43:00.000-05:00