Mark~Brittany~Oliver~Finley

No mess finger paints

2012-02-16T20:13:00.001-08:00

The title of the post is only partly true. My clever men quickly figured out how to open the bags for added fun!

4 weeks old

2012-02-16T14:38:00.001-08:00

Before and after

2012-02-14T05:33:00.001-08:00

We love Gymnast

2012-02-13T18:49:00.001-08:00

Oliver's Dental Surgery

2012-02-13T18:12:00.001-08:00

Well, the morning finally came. We'd been looking forward to, and dreading this procedure for several months now.
Becky came to watch Finley (since siblings aren't allowed).
We woke a around 5:30, got ready and headed to Children's hospital.
I have actually prayed that we would never need to go to Children's hospital, and here we were getting ready to take Oliver to surgery, minor surgery, but surgery none the less.
I was a wreck, and my husband was calm and collected. It still surprises me when the Lord uses my own spouse to minister to me.
I sincerely hope that no one reading this has to take their children to the hospital for anything, but if you do I highly recommend Children's.
Every staff member greeted Oliver prior to greeting us. They focused a ridiculous amount of energy on making sure he was happy and comfortable, using little games for everything from a thermometer to a bp check.

Oliver was tired, but cheery as we waited for his "valium".
They gave it to him in a drink form and we held him until it started to work.
He got loopy, and silly, and was even giggling right before they took him into the OR.

After what seemed like an eternity he emerged and we were able to see him.
I went in first and, though I was warned, I was shocked to see the size of his lips.

They're not sure what caused it. Maybe an allergic reaction to latex ( found in the rubber mouth piece. After discovering that it contained latex they quickly discarded all of them) or a reaction to the pressure, etc.
Even still, he was happy. We were told several times how well he behaved, and how calmly he reacted to the medication.

Here's a glimpse at his new teeth. I think his lips are still too sore to get a good look.
He had a total of 16 crowns/caps put on.
No, the silver do not contain mercury.
Yes, they were able to do white on the front top teeth.
Yes, he was a little disappointed that he didn't get silver "robot" teeth across the front:)

Daddy gave Oliver the Dragon that he had seen at one of our earlier visits to the hospital.
He was so excited!
He's also eating one of the 4!! popsicles he got to have.

Grabbing a quick picture on our way out of the hospital. What a long day for such a little guy, but he was so brave and good natured about the whole thing. We were very proud.
I'll post a pic of his new teeth asap.
PS
Oliver's lips did return to their normal size by the end of the night:)

The long term dangers of spanking: A Canadian Study

2012-02-12T13:29:00.000-08:00

I saw this on yahoo...

TORONTO (Reuters) - Spanking children can cause long-term developmental damage and may even lower a child's IQ, according to a new Canadian analysis that seeks to shift the ethical debate over corporal punishment into the medical sphere.

The study, published this week in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, reached its conclusion after examining 20 years of published research on the issue. The authors say the medical finding have been largely overlooked and overshadowed by concerns that parents should have the right to determine how their children are disciplined.

While spanking is certainly not as widespread as it was 20 years ago, many still cling to the practice and see prohibiting spanking as limiting the rights of parents.

That point of view highlights the difficulty in changing hearts and minds on the issue, despite a mountain of accumulated evidence showing the damage physical punishment can have on a child, says Joan Durant, a professor at University of Manitoba and one of the authors of the study.

"We're really past the point of calling this a controversy. That's a word that's used and I don't know why, because in the research there really is no controversy," she said in an interview.

"If we had this level of consistency in findings in any other area of health, we would be acting on it. We'd be pulling out all the stops to work on the issue."

Durant and co-author Ron Ensom, with the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa, cite research showing that physical punishment makes children more aggressive and antisocial, and can cause cognitive impairment and developmental difficulties.

Recent studies suggest it may reduce the brain's grey matter in areas relevant to intelligence testing.

"What people have realized is that physical punishment doesn't only predict aggression consistently, it also predicts internalizing kinds of difficulties, like depression and substance use," said Durant.

"There are no studies that show any long term positive outcomes from physical punishment."

While banned in 32 countries, corporal punishment of children retains at least partial social acceptance in much of the world. Debates on the issue typically revolve around the ethics of using violence to enforce discipline.

With the study, Durant hopes parents will start to look at the issue from a medical perspective.

"What we're hoping is that physicians will take that message and do more to counsel parents around this and to help them understand that physical punishment isn't getting them where they want to go," she said.

She also hopes that countries that allow the practice - including Canada - will take another look at their child protection laws.

Canada is one of more than 190 countries to have ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, a 1989 treaty that sets out protections for children.

The treaty - which has been ratified by all UN member states except for the United States, Somalia and South Sudan - includes a passage stating that countries must protect children from "all forms of physical or mental violence".

"If we had two or three studies that showed that if you took 500 mg of vitamin C a day you could reduce cancer risk, we would all be taking 500 mg of vitamin C a day," Durant said.

"Here, we have more than 80 studies, I would say more than 100, that show the same thing (about corporal punishment), and yet we keep calling it controversial."

(Reporting By Cameron French; editing by Rob Wilson)

Oliver-ism

2012-02-10T18:59:00.001-08:00

After emerging from the bath and still in his birthday suit...
Mom: Oliver I'm going to go get you jammies.
Oliver: No, I don't need jammies. I'm free!

3 weeks old

2012-02-10T18:57:00.001-08:00

3 weeks old

2012-02-10T10:31:00.001-08:00

Oliver-ism

2012-02-08T15:06:00.001-08:00

"he's crapping me up!" referring to Finley

"a-little-bit-a-while-ago"

Enjoying some cousin time and black flats

2012-02-07T17:21:00.001-08:00

"mail's in, mail's here!"

2012-02-07T17:19:00.001-08:00

The boys got these sweet, homemade hats from their great-grandma Suzie. They each got their own package in the mail and Finn literally wore his all day. thanks grandma!

Geocashing around town

2012-02-07T17:13:00.001-08:00

Wall-E wannabes

2012-02-07T17:11:00.001-08:00

A Treasure Hunt Adventure

2012-02-02T20:04:00.001-08:00

Oliver has recently been asking when he could go on an adventure. Daddy took his request to heart and created a Treasure Hunt Adventure.

Oliver unrolled his "old weathered" map that would lead him to the treasure

Upon arriving at the park we immediately saw some wildlife.

Taking a minute to check out their map....

and they were on their way.

Taking the "Seven bridges trail"

These beautiful stones are cascading all along the trails

Taking a snack break on a fallen tree.
Mark brought Oliver's favorite snack, Cheeto's!

After a long walk they finally neared the treasure

After digging deep inside a hidden cave, he found his treasure

500 golden coins!!!

With so much excitement, fresh air, and exercise Oliver collapsed on the way home.

Mark planned and prepared this super special day for Oliver all on his own, and executed it perfectly. Our little boy will never forget these fantastic memories with his daddy, and best friend.
Mark, I'm so thankful that you're Husband, and Father who takes his job so seriously and lighthearted at the same time.

A man of many names

2012-02-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

It's official! We've stumbled onto Weston's first nickname.
If you know us at all you knew it was bound to happen sooner or later.
West Chesterton

Here are a few of Oliver and Finn's current and past names:

Oliver:
-Beaver
-Lever
-Beave
-Leaver-Beaver
-Beaverton
-Turkey
-Monkey
-Turkey Burkey

Finley:
-Finn
-Finners
-Finner Binner
-Finner Finner Chicken Dinner
-Binner
-Bo-Binsky
-Binksy

Two Weeks

2012-02-02T08:00:00.001-08:00

Overheard

2012-01-31T14:48:00.000-08:00

Oliver: Mom I opened the closet in the bathroom and saw the hole in the floor but I didn't pee in it.
Mom: You didn't pee in it? Why would you say that?
Oliver: I was just pretending.

-This is what I heard as Mark took him into the bathroom to examine the closet.

Mark: Oliver, you peed in the closet didn't you?
Oliver: It doesn't look like it does it?

Need I say more

Instant buds

2012-01-30T19:14:00.001-08:00

Comparisons

2012-01-29T18:31:00.001-08:00

Oliverism

2012-01-29T18:25:00.001-08:00

While grocery shopping with daddy in the bakery section after the workers had left.
"are all the Jeff's sleeping?"

1 Week Old

2012-01-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

One of the many reasons we love having the boys close together

2012-01-26T13:56:00.003-08:00

Visitors galore

2012-01-26T13:56:00.001-08:00

Mark and I have always been surrounded by a strong support system and this phase of our life is no different. We've had a steady stream if visitors (but not too many) coming to meet Weston. We are so blessed to have such great friends and family bringing us company, food, groceries, gifts, laundry, diapers, and kids to keep our children busy (a definite blessing).

-I have more photos on my camera

A future modern architect?

2012-01-24T08:18:00.001-08:00

Oliver's creation

Day 2

2012-01-22T07:31:00.001-08:00

Besides being hungry every waking moment Weston is doing great.

2012-01-20T21:15:00.001-08:00

Baby Melby

2012-01-20T08:40:00.001-08:00

My sick boy

2012-01-18T19:51:00.001-08:00

Oliver developed something like the flue in the muddle of the night. I woke up to a vomit covered daddy taking care of Oliver (I am genuinely so thankful for marks amazing nurturing skills, even at 1 in the morning).
It was a long night and slow day but Oliver seemed to be doing better tonight. Pray with us that this bug won't effect anyone else, especially the baby.
Side note: we have the best midwife ever! I called to cancel my appt. this morning and she not only was still willing to see me but also offered to bring flu supplies to us. Amazing lady!

Nostalgic fun

2012-01-18T19:44:00.001-08:00

A depressing ending to a great season

2012-01-17T18:39:00.001-08:00

The boys geared up for a game that should have meant that Weston would still have a chance to wear his Packers onsie and use his Packers pacifier, but alas. It will now just be a sad reminder.
The boys still enjoyed yelling touchdown and spending time with daddy. There's always next year.

What is with this weather Wisconsin?!?

2012-01-08T12:59:00.001-08:00

It was so beautiful out today that we took a long walk and cleaned the yard while the boys played in their jeep. I'm not complaining, just thoroughly confused.
It seems like it was around this time last year when we had that ridiculous storm that closed down everything. Maybe God is holding off the snow until we have this little man.

Our growing boy

2012-01-07T16:19:00.001-08:00

Oliver has always had one of us at least partially dress him. During a recent midwifery visit mark and I were shocked when Oliver came down the stairs completely dressed (shirt inside out, mix-matched and everything).
We were so proud! I can't believe how quickly he's growing up.

2012-01-05T03:50:00.001-08:00

"Once I'm in my bubble bath
I like to stir up more.
Half the suds go in my eyes
And half go on the floor.
The fun is in the bubbles 'cause
They giggle on my skin,
And when I stick them on my face
They dangle from my chin.

And when I splash them hard enough
They pop and disappear,
And then my bath time's over 'cause
I've made the water clear."

All this from about 1 tsp of bubble bath.

Our family Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T11:32:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pics from our little Christmas. We woke up to sweet little boys in our bed. Mark went downstairs first to get their tunnel ready and found that our cat left us a Christmas gift on the floor, half a rodent ( if you own a cat you can appreciate the magnitude of this gift:)).
After the cleanup the morning went really well. It was a relaxed, happy, free of mood-swing (or blood sugar drops) Christmas. So happy! Our boys took their time and played with things as they went

2011-12-25T18:08:00.001-08:00

Cute christmas jammies

Love language

2011-12-25T14:35:00.001-08:00

Oliver's primary "love language" is physical touch, aka, snuggles.
I don't know exactly what Keira's primary love language is but I don't think it's the same, but she lovingly indulged in her cousins request for "more snuggles".

Cirque de Melby

2011-12-25T14:31:00.001-08:00

Kristen actually got all of the guys to pose for this photo. Kudos!

2011-12-25T14:30:00.001-08:00

Oliver with his cousin Reagan. She turned sweet sixteen on the 23rd.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Famous last words

2011-12-25T14:29:00.001-08:00

"...and whatever you do don't eat it!"

2011-12-25T14:26:00.001-08:00

Oliver-ism

2011-12-20T17:46:00.000-08:00

"The Grinch can't get out! He's locked up in hang-cups and foot-cups (handcuffs and... footcuffs?)"

2011-12-18T21:08:00.001-08:00

Oliver-ism

2011-12-18T18:07:00.000-08:00

Tonight during dinner....

Daddy: "Oliver get off the table"
Oliver: "I can't. I'm a mustache" (standing perfectly still)
Daddy: "Oliver get down"
Oliver complied
Daddy: "What is a mustache?"
Oliver: "Like this..." (demonstrating the same stone-like pose with arm extended)
After much confusion Mommy finally stepped in saying: " You mean a statue?"
Oliver: "Yea!!!"

Mystery solved

A tale if two flours

2011-12-15T18:47:00.001-08:00

Here are the boys making cookies. Finn was making his "special" gf version. Oliver frequently helps in the kitchen but this was Finn's first time making something of his own.
I was really excited how well they both listened and it was an all around pleasant experience.

Oliver-ism

2011-12-15T06:57:00.000-08:00

This is due to our recent discovery of dog videos on youtube.

Mom: "Oliver don't scream. You can sing but you're not allowed to scream."
Oliver: "Mom! I'm not screaming, I'm howling to make Finn stop crying. That's what dogs do."

The inspiring video found here

Oliver-ism

2011-12-14T06:53:00.000-08:00

Oliver made me an "apple pie" this morning. I offered him a taste but he said "No, I'm the jeff. I can't eat any."
He later explained that " a jeff is a maker-sir."
So, now that we're clear on that..... :)

"it's pajama time! Oh yes! It's pajama time"

2011-12-13T09:25:00.001-08:00

I declared today pajama day!

The grocery icebox

2011-12-09T14:16:00.001-08:00

This was taken earlier this summer. Our weekly ritual of going to woodman's is usually a frigid one. In the summer we would enter the store in shorts and t-shirt and my kids would cry most of the way through the store with chattering teeth because of the temperatures. I quickly developed a system if bringing blankets with and the boys knew to bundle up as soon as we entered.

Turn the moose loose

2011-12-09T14:11:00.003-08:00

A little foolery

2011-12-09T14:11:00.001-08:00

Catching the first flakes of the year

2011-12-09T14:09:00.001-08:00

Upside-down-with-a-harmonica

2011-12-09T14:06:00.001-08:00

A book we love!

2011-12-07T13:28:00.000-08:00

This was one of those things that I totally didn't get until having little boys and watching them fall in love with it.
I picked up the book at Goodwill and Oliver thought it was so great that we quickly ordered the movie from the library.
Oliver had asked Daddy about Max's crown, and Daddy suggested that it be his weekend craft.
However, when daddy does something he doesn't just do it halfhearted. There was measuring and pasting and cutting and sequins....

Finley was watching Oliver get fitted for his crown and just quietly touched his head, reminding Daddy not to forget about making one for him.

They turned out great and have been worn several times since then.
Good idea Daddy!

Worst book ever!

2011-12-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

We've been utilizing our library a lot recently, and when you're getting as many books as we are you're bound to get a rotten egg. This is it. The Backward Day.
It's so painfully boring to read. However, Oliver absolutely loves it. I do just about anything, just short of giving him candy, to talk him out of it.
Because of this Mark that it was great fun to read it as slowly as possible in the most monotone voice he could muster. Grrr.
In conclusion: There are numerous things that you and your child could do that would be a much better use of time.

Prayer Request for Oliver

2011-11-11T06:42:00.001-08:00

As most of you know Oliver has had severe decay in his teeth since he was a little over a year. I could dive into the list of things we didn't give him that would have cause the decay, and how his genetics were against him from the beginning, or how I took an antibiotic while nursing....
It doesn't matter. This is where we're at today.
We took him to the Children's Hospital Dental Clinic (I highly recommend them if you live in the area) for the best Dr. visit I could have imagined.
They then determined that he would need Oral Surgery to avoid infections, more decay, and ruining his adult teeth.
I hate the idea of having him put "under" but it's actually less dangerous than having him go back several times for all the procedures.
We're asking for prayer for his little body and his recovery. The surgery isn't until Feb so that leaves lots of time for prayer.
We're trusting The Lord that loves Oliver far more than we ever could and has a perfect plan for even his teeth.

That's just the Gluten talking

2011-11-11T06:09:00.000-08:00

For the past several months Finley has been Gluten Free due to a wheat/gluten sensitivity.
We've had several conversations with Oliver about it to make sure he doesn't share things that Finn can't have.
Below are a few blips resulting from living in a GF household.

"Mom, is this song Gluten Free?"

MOM: Oliver, do you want a strawberry with your cereal?
OLIVER: No thanks
MOM: What about a banana?
OLIVER: No, banana's are all mixed up. They have gluten and wheat in em'. They're just all mixed up.

We were made to be courageous

2011-10-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

Click Here

2011-10-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

"Remember the story where Jesus fed thousands of people with one boy’s lunch? In that story, according to Mathew, Jesus gave the loaves to His disciples and then the disciples passed them out to the crowd. Imagine if the disciples had simply held onto the food Jesus gave them, continually thanking Him for providing lunch for them. That would’ve been stupid when there was enough food to feed the thousands who were gathered and hungry.

But that is exactly what we do when we fail to give freely and joyfully. We are loaded down with too many good things, more than we could ever need, while others are desperate for a small loaf. The good things we cling to are more than money; we hoard our resources, our gifts, our time, our families, our friends. As we begin to practice regular giving, we see how ludicrous it is to hold on to the abundance God has given us and merely repeat the words thank you."

The Biggest Responsibility I Never Considered...

2011-09-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying, this is not intended to make anyone feel guilty or inadequate. The only thing prompting this post is my excitement, that I'm hoping you'll share in.

A several months ago Mark and I discovered the abundance of documentaries that can be found on Netflix (very possibly the best $13 a month we've ever spent).
Mark stumbled upon a movie called Food Matters.
I typically scoff at anything similar to Supersize Me, or a Michael Moore film. This, however, was different.
It didn't use opinions but turned to Medical and Scientific research to create a compelling argument against the way we eat (quite literally how our family ate).
Long story short it convicted us enough to throw out all of our junk food (that included bleached flour, and processed what-have-you's, canned veggies, "whole wheat" breads, eggs, milk, etc. ).
The list was enormous, and we didn't even buy things like Little Debbie snacks, or bags of chips. A lot of it was more healthy than a typical American household pantry, but it wasn't good enough.
I started to realize that the food I feed our children is creating their patterns and views on food. It's daunting when you really think about it. I could literally be responsible for Oliver or Finn getting a number of ailments, like type 2 diabetes, as adults because I let them think that things like canned peaches, processed cheeses and Subway were healthy foods.

For us, this not a diet, not a fad. I can't, knowing what I know now, go back to the way we were eating. Changed forever.
The biggest change has been noticing how horrible we feel after eating something crappy.
White bread? Mark and I spend the next day or two feeling like garbage.
Isn't the body amazing that it will give you such clear signs of neglect, but for most of us we've been neglecting them since we started eating solid foods so

If you or your family hasn't seen this movie you need to. Honestly.

We made the move to mostly Organic, and truly All Natural.
It's been over two months now, but we're still goin' strong.

The Ice Cream Truck Rocks

2011-08-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Oliver's Homemade Shuttle Launch

2011-08-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

3... 2... 1... blast off

"We will, we will, rocket boom!"
(sung to the tune of we will, we will rock you)

The Last Shuttle Launch

2011-08-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

Oliver absolutely loved watching this. I bawled (it's a lot like jets).

2011-08-16T20:39:00.000-07:00

More 4th celebrations

2011-08-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

4th of July Crafts

2011-08-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

Binner was more into watching than crafting.

I was so proud of Oliver for sitting and actually working on this flag.

Beach Babies

2011-08-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

Madison and I were feeling a little stir crazy so we packed up the kids and headed to a beach.

Riding a killer wave

More wimming with friends

2011-08-16T20:04:00.001-07:00

Katie and Audrianna took a break this summer to come up and chill with us.

A typical Oliver spot

Learning to swim

2011-08-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

We have all spent a lot of time in the pool this summer and over the last couple months both Oliver and Finn have gotten very comfortable in the water.
Oliver has gone so far as to swim under water for long (7 seconds) periods of time.
It's a huge leap for him to even let his face get wet. We're so proud of his progress.

Keira's Visit

2011-08-16T16:44:00.001-07:00

First, we had dinner. I set it up restaurant style with crudely drawn menus for ordering. They dined at their own table, and took turns praying

Dinner wasn't exactly gourmet, but they loved it!

Keira and Oliver opening her gifts from Mom and Dad.

She had to quickly put her jammies on and share her light-sticks.

Just minutes before they both collapsed for bed.

We loved having her here and I can't wait for more visits as they get older.

Fathers Day 2011

2011-08-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

This cracks me up. Mark didn't want to be in any pictures so this is the only Father's Day picture I got.

Bounce-a-rama!!!

2011-08-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

While Keira was visiting in Wisconsin we headed to a nearby bounce house.

These were our attempts to get Caden to smile.... almost!

Pregnant, Grandma, Daddy, it didn't matter. Everyone was having a blast going down the slides and jumping.

While waiting to get their picture taken I realized I could get the same results holding my camera over the booth camera.

Pats Baseball Game

2011-08-16T16:22:00.000-07:00

Due to a conflict in schedules this was, unfortunately, the only one of Pat's games that we saw.

He played well, and takes the game very seriously. He's growing up so fast (sniff, sniff).

My grandparents are so wonderful for a number of reasons, but especially for their genuine interest in all of our hobbies, sports, or what have you. They travel all the way from Illinois numerous times a month for all sorts of events, parties and visits.

Daddy's Home!

2011-08-16T16:18:00.000-07:00

This is a common scene weekdays in our home. They boys shriek when daddy pulls in, and they eagerly wait at the window for him to come up the steps.

Summer Fun!

2011-08-16T09:09:00.001-07:00

Oh Finley's many chairs

2011-08-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

I could literally crash this site posting all this pictures of Finley sitting in some form of chair/seat. It's his own Finner-ism, and as far as I know it was nothing we did. He just decided he loves finding places to sit and recline with a smug look on his face:)

Preparing for Grams Funeral

2011-08-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Mark's 93 yr old Grandmother passed away this early June. I hate that it's taken me this long to write anything about it. She is an amazing woman, and became an instant favorite of mine at my first big Melby function. She went out of her way to make me feel comfortable and welcome. That was who she was. Over the next 10 years or so her hospitality continued. We miss her tons.
Oliver and her were especially close, which is odd since they only got to know each other for a few years. Never the less, Grams was and is still a frequent topic of discussion in Oliver's world.
Before she passed away she gave the boys a singing flower that that plays "You are my sunshine".
It's horribly loud and obnoxious (which is why she wanted it out of her room:)) but every time the boys turn it on it makes us think of her.
These photos are from the women sitting around picking out pictures for the service.

I think it must be mentioned how much Bill and Becky had to go through this particular weekend. They were planning a funeral, a wake, and putting up with an additional 16 people living in their house. But they did it all with poise and patience. The Lord clearly carried them through and in turn it carried the rest of us.

Just one of the guys

2011-08-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

Sister-in-Laws & Nieces

2011-08-14T19:52:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure if any of you sister-in-laws had a copy of this.

Timmy The Frog

2011-08-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

"Timmy the frog hopped into my yard

He came to visit a while

Mom, please can he stay

He wants to play

She nodded with a knowing smile.

So we leapt and we hopped

And we couldn’t be stopped

Through the grass and through the weeds,

Till we found a cool place to rest a while,

Under the shade of the trees

We lay on the ground,

Insects buzzing around

And we gazed at the wide blue sky,

We made not a sound, as we lay on the ground

Watching the clouds float by.

Then I drifted away

As a cloud passed my way

Only to wake with a fright

I gave out a sigh, as the frog said goodbye

And leapt in the woods out of sight"

Oliver and Marks Birthday Party 2011

2011-08-14T16:55:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite birthday celebrations of the year. It's such a big, fun party with both of our families meshed, and good friends...

Speaking of which... Madison is an absolute Godsend. When we first moved back I prayed for a friend like her. Not long afterward she and Christopher were married. She's been a blessing every since. I love you girl!

Yay presents!

What a super blessed little boy. Seriously, everyone knew him so well.

Mark's favorite has quickly become Oliver's fav as well. Oreo.... well Oreo anything.

Happy Birthday Men! We love you bunches!!!

Oliver's 3rd Birthday

2011-08-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

"I'm Free!" (I'm three!)
This was such a bid deal for Oliver. Turning three was more exciting than any of the gifts or festivities he received. Even now in August it's still one of the first things he tells waitresses or passerby's.

This sandbox was a hand-me-down from Bompa and Gamma Becky so we filled it became one of his birthday presents.

He absolutely loved it! His grossed out face is from Daddy's warning of what happens when you leave the lid off over night. Lets just say it has something to do with finding lumps:)

Baby Love

2011-07-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

I came across this photo today on Mark's phone and I was shocked by how little the boys were.
And yet, not much has changed. This is still a common picture in our home. We're constantly amazed at how well these two get along, and genuinely love each other.
I can't wait to add another monkey to the mix in December.

An Ex Porn-Stars Amazing Story

2011-06-10T19:51:00.000-07:00

I struggled with posting this in fear of offending some, but I'm hoping that the majority that benefit from it will outweigh those not willing to face the truth. Porn is everywhere, in hundreds of forms, available to anyone with sight.
I bawled watching this video.
As I post this I'm thinking how much pornography is like cancer. If you don't deal with it yourself, you probably know someone who does or did.
It's in 6 parts, and about an hour in length, but well worth your time.
Click Here

Quote

2011-06-10T19:00:00.001-07:00

“Grace and love are more powerful and transforming than shame and guilt.”

2011-06-09T13:26:00.001-07:00

So, we just got home from grocery shopping.
At Pick N Save we did the self checkout because I really only had around 20 things ( I went to Woodmans for a majority of our shopping), and there was a woman behind me who was mad because I was letting Oliver ring up stuff. She said something like "she's letting her damn kid ring stuff up....". I behaved myself and ignored her:)
So she quickly gets a checkout thingy of her own and then when she finishes she comes over to us to tell me how unbelievable I am for letting my kid ring stuff up, blah, blah, blah. As she's saying this there was no one in line, ironic huh?
So, even though there were tons of things flying through my head as she insulted us, all I could think about was how she was making me feel and how I didn't want to do that to her (sound like someone you know? My husband).
All I ended up saying was "You're going to regret saying that later (with a hand on her shoulder and a half-hearted sympathetic look)" Then as she yelled some more stuff as she walked away I just said "I'm quite confident that you wouldn't spend this kind of time with your children."
I probably could have left that last bit out, but overall I was really proud of myself that, pregnant and all, I still controlled myself. I year ago I would have let her have it, and felt horrible later. It just goes to show that the Lord works on us continually even in ways we don't realize until we're put in a tempting position.

"Mom, there's poop on my floor"

2011-06-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

This is yet another reason to be thankful that Oliver can communicate so well.
After their shower this morning I let the boys play in their room (in their towels) while I got ready.
After just a few minutes Oliver came rushing in with the above announcement.
I ran in to find a little pancake on the floor. Apparently it had been stepped on. Needless to say everyone had to get washed again.
I already know what Mark will say when he sees this, and if you know me well you're not feeling sorry for me, as this has happened numerous times before.
Ohwell. No harm done, right?

HAPPY QUARTER OF A CENTURY MARK!

2011-06-02T06:26:00.001-07:00

MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND TURNS 25 TODAY! FOR 6 MONTHS OF THE YEAR I'M MARRIED TO AN OLDER MAN.
HE IS SUCH A BLESSING TO ME, OUR FAMILY AND EVERYONE HE KNOWS.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU MAY NOT HAVE KNOWN ABOUT MARK:
-HE HATES DOING THE DISHES MORE THAN ANY OTHER HOUSEHOLD CHORE
-HE'S A MASTER OF ROUTINES AND SCHEDULES (BECKY WOULD YOU HAVE EVER THOUGHT THAT WAS POSSIBLE:))
-HE BRUSHES HIS TEETH IN THE SHOWER
-ONE OF HIS GREATEST WISHES IS THAT SOMEONE WOULD DROP HIM IN THE MIDDLE OF A FOREST TO SEE HOW WELL HE COULD SURVIVE
-ONE OF HIS HERO'S IS BEAR GRILLS (AND POSSIBLY THE GUY FROM RIVER MONSTERS)
-IN HIS SPARE TIME HE LIKES TO WALK HIMSELF THROUGH DIFFERENT DISASTER SCENARIOS TO MENTALLY PREPARE FOR THE UNIMAGINABLE
-HE BUILT MOST OF OUR HOUSE WITH HIS BARE HANDS

THANKS FOR HAVING ANOTHER DAY THAT WE CAN CELEBRATE YOU!
I LOVE YOU MORE THAN WORDS BABE

The 5 Melby's Rhyme

2011-06-02T05:16:00.001-07:00

There once was a family who
Made babies even when they weren't trying to
They were surprised and happy
Though Mommy was queasy and crabby
Daddy was hoping for twins
Oliver wanted a female version of Finn
Finley wished for a sister
But no-one will find out until winter:)

Yes. We are pregnant again! Yea for God's perfect timing, even though I thought my body was lightyears away from another huge transformation.
We're always excited about more children. Especially since we got so "lucky" with the first two.
Please be praying with us for a safe, healthy, pregnancy.

Mark's BIrthday Fishboil

2011-05-30T15:54:00.000-07:00

Over the holiday weekend we celebrated Mark's 25th birthday. I can't believe he's going to be that old.

4
Little cousins (Cole, Lilly, Keira, Oliver)

Auntie Adrianne with two of her favorite little people

This is as close to a posed picture as we were getting.
Just a few minutes before the boil-over

A fairly quiet moment with Finn and Caden. Most of the weekend Finley ran around touching Caden, and Caden would scream, or cry. Finley quickly realized the power involved in his touch and relished every shrieking moment.

Oliver helping Daddy "chop" wood for the fire.

Binner's "Mad Face"

2011-05-30T15:47:00.000-07:00

This face is usually accompanied by loud snorting and marching around.

Dukers

2011-05-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

Make Believe

2011-05-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

This is one of Oliver's favorite pretend play games.
Groceries!
We set up his shelves of items and he carefully "beeps" each one then bags them in his paper sacks. He calls this job "the grocery sir" (he came up with that all on his own)
I printed up some paper money and laminated it for his cash register. Now all he needs is an apron.

Oliverisms

2011-05-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

#1 "Holy cheese! That's hysterical!" (after watching something fall down the stairs)

#2 "Mark, you get him please." (asking Mark to get Finley so Oliver and I could read our book. A common phrase in our house, usually by me.)

"Here comes the walkin' man!"

2011-03-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

At the end of last year Mark predicted that Finley would walk before his first Birthday.
His prophecy has come true! On Wednesday night Finley took about 5 steps. In the days that have followed he's made great strides (literally).

Favorite quotes

2011-03-19T07:28:00.000-07:00

"My mom is sooo cute!" - Oliver

Oliver: "Dad, I gotta check my email."
Later on while Mark was telling me what Oliver had said Oliver chimed in "That's hysterical!"

So thankful

2011-02-26T19:09:00.001-08:00

Sometimes after repeating myself dozens of times I start to wonder if the things we're trying to teach and instill in Oliver will ever stick. I'm sure most parents hear me loud and clear.
Tonight I watched him walk over to a plate and fork sitting on the couch, pick it up, and scrape it into the trash and then put it in the sink without Mark or I saying a word. Genius! He saw the need and just did it!
I was so impressed by this, and I started to think about my example to him as a mom. If Mark and I are careless with our things and don't lead by example how can we expect our children to do anything we say. Respect is a two way street and it's amazing how quickly children will pick up on those who are undeserving of it.
I pray that my example to our children will be one that they are proud to follow.

Favorite Quote of the Day: Oliver

2011-02-26T19:08:00.001-08:00

As we passed an old church
Oliver: "Mom, look! It's college, right there, college."
Mom: "No, that's a church"
Oliver: (pausing to think) "Oh. That's a tricky one."

Favorite Quote of the Day: Oliver

2011-02-14T14:30:00.001-08:00

While watching Aladdin
"Ewww! Kissin' ahke Mom!"

Picey Indian

2011-02-07T18:13:00.001-08:00

The following conversation was dictated to me, by daddy, after a recent trip to our favorite Indian restaurant.
Oliver: "Ugh! Again!"
Daddy: "What's again?"
Oliver: "Picy (spicy) again"
Daddy: "Oh, I'm sorry"
Oliver: "No, not your fault. It's my fault"