Musings on Marriage and Motherhood

A Quiet Moment

2011-12-01T12:23:00.001-08:00

This is my favorite way to photograph - when I can contain people doing what they do.

2011-11-30T19:09:00.001-08:00

Do you see this little girl? We are smitten - entirely and utterly smitten - all of us.

Beckoned to Become

2011-10-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

Fall in Eugene. As the change of season is laden with color and crisp and fresh and frost, I have also been clinging onto the idea of change - of becoming. A putting off and a throwing on. Repentence. A turning from. A clinging to. I am thankful for the hope to become that which is more fully human, whom God has created me to be, to be more like Jesus. To be like Jesus? It sounds ludicrous to even mention. Truly, such a task is far too great.

When I scroll through these images of my people, I feel a deep gratitude but also a stabbing incapability to serve and love. I have this great task to be Jesus to them. And I know, very well, that in order to let Jesus rule in my life, I must be dying, and turning, and clinging, and worshipping and communing. The glory of these faces, these bodies, this happiness, this season, reminds me of the beauty and goodness and glory of God and causes me to run, run, run to Him.

He Wrestles

2011-10-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

Strength and Beauty for Today

2011-10-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling truly and deeply blessed. God reveals his beauty. My cups runs over. And my hands are busy with good things.

2011-09-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

Homeschool Blindspots. Read it.

2011-09-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

I have been missing this blog lately. I miss the slow-it-down time that is involved in thinking about what's going on and the picture posting - documentary style. It appears that I have internet schizophrenia between blogger here and my newish tumblr account. I guess that I'll hold on to both. Depending on what varying situation allows or doesn't allow me to be sitting in front of a computer. my Tumblr allows me to use my iphone to quickly post a pic here and there. It's quite handy. When I can sit down in front of a computer, however, I prefer to be able to get on the ol' blog with all of its history. Because instances of sitting down in front a computer seem to be few and far between these days, we''ll just have to see...

God is kind, and I am blessed, and I feel that this summer has been fruitful. I have been able to think a lot about God and my calling as a mama and my kids in particular. Not a lot is coming out yet, but a lot has gone in, and I'm still processing. I haven't written about our educational adventures here, but we're homeschooling Colson this year and and we're involved with a great little classical Christian program called Classical Conversations, of which I am extremely grateful. Maybe more on that later.

The days tick by so quickly. As I look around at my babies I'm finding that we are out of one phase and into the next lickity-split. Colson is now 6! What a big guy. Being his mother has taught me so much about what it means to be a Christian. Lewis is now a little boy, friend to Colson and big brother to Caroline. and Caroline. :) that little person that brings instant joy to my heart. Thank you God. She is going on 2 this fall. two! Two is not baby.

Well, lastly I wanted to post a few portraits of these gifts that have taught me what it means to be a servant and to cheerfully give my life away. Their "fat souls" make every sacrifice so worth it.

Tumblr-ing

2011-02-13T16:42:00.000-08:00

Considering my ill-functioning computer, the lack of writing I have done on the blog, and the streamlining my phone is capable of doing, I thought that tumblr would be much more practical.

For now, you'll find me posting here:

Dazed and Confused

2011-02-07T20:20:00.000-08:00

This kind of look tells a mama that someone needs a nap.

Beautiful Boy

2011-02-02T12:21:00.000-08:00

Keep Thinking, Boy

2011-02-01T21:05:00.000-08:00

My Caroline

2011-01-31T17:29:00.000-08:00

Cheese

2011-01-30T18:22:00.000-08:00

Eugene - Going Green

2011-01-25T18:57:00.000-08:00

Today the sun shone upon us and I noticed that even now, in January, the buds from my backyard Rhodies are preparing for their fruitful arrival this Spring.

I love living in Eugene.

Feelin' the Love

2011-01-12T20:40:00.001-08:00

When I saw this going on today I had to hurry to my nearby camera. Can't you just feel the love this little boy has for his sister? It does a mama's heart oh-so-good.

Colson earned best-big-brother award today. He cheered Lewis on as he is undertaking the great task of learning to conduct himself without diapers. He shared all of his food with Caroline who always likes to snack on everyone else's food. He srceamed for us when Caroline was climbing up his ladder to his bunk-bed and he shared his toys willingly with his little brother.

wow, what a good, blessed day. Who knows what kind of squabbles and sins tomorrow will bring, but today I'll be thankful for today.

Colson Quotes on which I sigh "ooooh Brother"

2011-01-05T18:07:00.000-08:00

When you are educating a 5-year-old there are some interesting comments and ideas that are expressed:

Colson: Maybe when Rembrandt dies I will be the one that will be the great and famous artist.

-------

Colson: Here, I'll just try to read this part with my eyes closed.

(oh brother)

-------

Me: Colson can you please pick up those crumbs you dropped.

Colson: Maybe at night mouses can eat those. We don't want to be messing with crumbs.

I love living in this kind of light

2011-01-04T15:10:00.001-08:00

We get the most glorious light coming into our home. It's just what I need during these gray Oregon winters. The way it bounces all through my dining area and through the living room and onto the page of a good book makes my heart cheery.

Emerging From Hibernation

2011-01-03T11:32:00.001-08:00

We've been battling sickness around here. So far, the Lord has spared me. I'm so thankful that I have been able to be on two feet for the rest of the tribe around here. I think we're definitely on the up and up. I'm thankful.

Now, time to corral the wild 5-year-old and get after that reading lesson...

Rumreys 2010

2010-12-24T22:56:00.001-08:00

Another year. Another year having not sent out our family photo. Fail. Maybe next year? Anyway, here we all are in this beautiful year of 2010. And Merry Christmas to you.

What a Merry Merry Day

2010-12-24T09:11:00.000-08:00

We're all quite through the roof over hear about it being Christmas Eve today. You know what that means about tomorrow. I can hardly wait to see my children react to their gifts. I will never have christmas with my kids again when they are 5 and 2 and 1. I'm planning on taking them all in and hoping that the day will settle on my heart.

Colson Quote (singing):

"santa claus is comin to town. (stops singing) no. (resumes singing) Je-sus is coming to town!"

what a kid.

Merry Christmas

'tis the season to be warm and adorable in Christmas Jammies

2010-12-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

Stand and give it up for Christmas jammies

2010-12-15T22:33:00.000-08:00

2010-12-15T21:49:00.000-08:00

I love how this method of photography allows me to portray an emotion.

Through the Viewfinder. Take one.

2010-12-15T10:57:00.000-08:00

Here's my new, used, broken TLR camera that I can't really take pictures with. But with the help of the Cheerios box and my DSLR, I can take pictures through. So fun and addicting.

These are my first attempts from this morning. (And the sun is shinning. My heart is cheery.)

So if you see me carrying this thing around looking very strange and unbalanced, have pity on me. I really can't help myself.

Now I really must get something useful done around here.

Along the Oregon I-5

2010-12-13T20:03:00.000-08:00

an ode to fall or a romp in the dew (a couple weeks late)

2010-12-07T20:28:00.000-08:00

This kid? No time for benches. We've got some exploring to do.

Surrounded in this:

We'll take the time for this view:

I am just glad I had to hold the 12 monther and not the 2 year old. Way to go K.C.

Hipstamatic

2010-12-04T21:13:00.000-08:00

I've been a bit obsessed with the feel and convenience of KC's iphone camera. These were taken with the hipstamatic app.

Maybe, since I am not allowing time in my life to write much, I will just post pictures for awhile. I've got a good excuse right? These busy children keep me hoppin'.

My Very Beautiful Boys

2010-12-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

This makes me so happy - so wonderfully happy.

Contemplating Project 365

2010-11-23T14:16:00.000-08:00

Just sayin'.

I think, maybe, I need a project. maybe. advice, anyone?

Music to my heart

2010-11-22T15:24:00.000-08:00

Our Colson Christopher boy is feeling better. He's feeling much better. And because he's feeling better, we. are. all. feeling great. Thank you, Dear Lord, for helping and healing. It really was a scary ordeal for me, and I'm thankful the brunt of it is behind us, Lord willing.

Today I was so filled with joy that we dance partied way too much and i laughed a giggled with my children like I was one of them. I wasn't even frustrated when I found Colson trying to lasso his sister. In fact, i wanted to squeeze and kiss him and stuff him so full of affection he probably is creeped out by it all.

I learned a lot about myself when Colson was sick. I learned about the loco mama bear that dwells inside somewhere! EEEEkkkkk. Hope she doesn't pop up again anytime soon. She would have done ANYTHING to take the pain away and she was very frustrated that there was nothing in front of her.

Enough about that; thank you for your prayers. Truly. I'm feeling such cheer and joy today that i could just float up to the sky.

A Current Journey

2010-11-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

We’ve been in the thick of quite a journey over here. A week ago today, KC took Colson to the E.R. due to intense stomach pains. He was released with no diagnosis. The next night we went to an after-hours clinic for the same problem and from there were advised by the pediatrician to admit him to the hospital to have further testing. The pain persisted. Tests were done and nothing was absolute. We spent two nights in the hospital with our boy and had one more trip to the pediatrician. Today the ache has, for the first time, been tolerable. Seeing Colson endure such intense hurt without being able to take it away has been agonizing for us. Today resembled normal. The pain seems to be caused by swollen lymph nodes in his abdomen as well as compacted stool. His little system is working it out. Everyday he starts off well enough to cause optimism in us but the pain tapers in as the day passes on and we’ve faced continual sleepless nights and pleading with God. Even now, he lies on the couch next to me twisting this way and that, trying to find some comfort. But he’s tolerating it tonight, which is very encouraging.

Meanwhile, Caroline had her first birthday which came and went uncelebrated. We’ll get to that, even if it is a bit late.

Ironically this all came about the night after KC lead a bible study in our home for high-schoolers on James 1:1-4. Let me quote it for you: “My bretheren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” God has asked us to practice what we preach and has made this a very personal study in our lives.

Please pray for complete healing and recovery and rest for Colson.

Holding Down The Fort

2010-11-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

Leave it to this guy.

Thrifted and Fabulous

2010-10-28T16:12:00.001-07:00

She Walks

2010-10-26T19:39:00.000-07:00

Illumination

2010-10-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

Brothers, Friends.

2010-10-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

Lewis: Colson, you are my friend.

Colson: Yeah. I know.

Dear October,

2010-10-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Please take your coat off and stay awhile.

Yours Truly,

KeriAnn

Colson quotes - on Caroline and Daddy

2010-10-05T19:27:00.001-07:00

This boy fills me with such joy:

Colson: Do you know why we keep running out of Sister-Diapers? Because she is sooo good at going poop.

-------------------

Colson: Mom, do you know how much I love sister? I love her more than our backyard being filled with gold. I love her more than a huge, giant cupcake that would fill our yard. I love her so much that I squeeze her.

--------------------

Colson: Do you know what I love best of all?

KC: What?

Colson: Being with you.

Dear Colson, my heart is filled with warmth and color because of you. You are the perfect piece to this Rumrey culture. And I love you. I love you.

my love story

2010-10-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

When I met him, I knew that I wanted to be with someone like him. I didn’t think it actually would be him. Jokingly, my friends and I would refer to KC as my “husband.” Little did I know.

He was strong. He was convicted. He was different. And full of passion. I loved that about him. When things started to work out for us, he was all those things. He was broken but he trusted. He had a deep faith in a whole God. He wanted nothing more than that, first.

This same man is before me today. I admire him more this day than even then, in all of our pre-marital bliss (and we did enjoy premarital bliss). He still is strong. He still is convicted. He still is different. And he still is full of passion. And I still love this about him. He has always led the way in putting Jesus Christ before all things. I have never felt such love for another human being for being a human being. After years of marriage, I have been privledged to be with a man, and in my view, he’s the way that God intended a man to be: destined for greatness. I believe this so strongly that I would walk the ends of the earth beside him. He has won me. And I am his.

And here we are together. I feel such a partnership and connection in our journey together. For it truly is a journey. We have bled. We have cried. We have sinned. But we have forgiven. And we have, and we do, love. much.

Go Baby Go

2010-09-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

All in a Days Work

2010-09-21T16:02:00.001-07:00

A bit of a lengthy update

2010-09-09T14:47:00.001-07:00

in Rumrey news...

The five year old has discovered the joy of duct tape. i believe a new chapter is upon us. He's also discovered the friendship of his baby brother. They have become best friends this summer, and it's been a highlight for me to have have witnessed it. Among drawing hilarious pictures, smothering his sister, leading his brother ("don't cry like a sissy-baby"), riding his bicycle through puddles, and eating (finally) like a growing boy. I'm seeing growth and faith, and I'm so excited for the upcoming year with him. Seriously, this child makes our lives so rich.

The two year old is currently on a diet of cereal and crackers, basil leaves, and an occasional peach. He continues to show his love for his family members by declaring, "i love [you] soooo much." He enjoys coloring, being polite, pretending to know his ABCs, being near Colson, and telling His baby sister what she can not have. He also thinks he's superman, or buzz lightyear, or a pirate...and he really likes to play ball.

The baby is super baby - crawling everywhere, squealing with delight, standing up on everything, having stinkier and stinkier diapers daily, and is just altogether delightful and precious. She loves watching her brothers and being close to her mama. We all dote on and adore her all day. Thank you God for a girl.

The man of the house is busy studying and sharing God's Word. In fact, if you visit our church website, he's started to blog. Here's a link: http://christthekingkirk.org/ He's the real superman of the family and we all adore him more and more. I think the boys pretty much could have him all to themselves full time. He teaches me everyday what it means to be a disciple of Christ and the way he loves on me makes me feel more and more beautiful as time goes on.

and me? i'm chasing after all the said members. I don't understand it, but I have been given a great task to care for the hearts of these members. They are truly precious and oh so beautiful. What a humbling job to train, discipline, love, and disciple. I have been thinking a lot about what I want to give to my children as their mother. I've concluded that the one thing that I want them to see in me, the one thing that I know today and tomorrow and forever that I have and that I want them to have is faith and love for God. I am not a perfect person. It's freeing to not pretend to be in front of my children. It's freeing to confess my sins to them and receive forgiveness and strength. It's freeing to know that "a mother's love" is not enough for my children. They need more than this mother's love. I can get impatient. I can get annoyed. I can get selfish. I can get angry. More than ever, however, I have been receiving strength and an encouraged heart as I seek out Jesus to equip me and enable me to embrace and love the task ahead of me. And I am seeing fruit and a feeling a fierce love and devotion building towards these little Rumrey members. Praise God, if anything good comes from me, may it be to and for His glory - from Him and for Him.

One reason I love photography is because it allows me to see the handiwork of God in a moment of stillness. In a snapshot of something ordinary and mundane, there is glory and beauty and magic. This seems, to me, to be especially true about portraiture. I don't know what it is, exactly, but a photograph helps me to see the image of God in another. I can see them and value them as image bearers, God's people, not mine, fellow creatures, made to know the Creator.

Because of this, I plan to continue to document our lives via photography and am learning more and more to appreciate the art of the photographer. I recently got a steal on an old film slr off of craigslist, and I was so thrilled to get back my first set of prints! The anticipation was so fantastic, and the limited number of exposures made my think and re-think composition and focus in a way that I haven't had to before. This nerdiness is just what I need to be more loving person/mother/wife...so i'll keep it around, if God so wills.

Some of the following pictures are from the new camera, all unedited. I don't think it's hard to tell which ones are and which ones aren't....

sometimes I want to post more...

2010-09-07T15:10:00.001-07:00

...but it's hard to want to post for the world when you are young and all of life is right in front of you (not that my blog holds the attention of the world!) and you are bound to make an idiot of yourself in one form or another. It's the same feeling I get when I read my high school journal. I flip through those pages and I think "what in the world..." I know there are mistakes to be made. I know I am young. I think I am posting less because I'm in a place of learning. There is so much on my mind lately. Thoughts about child-rearing, God's promises, faith, Christian Education, mercy, discipline, motherhood, womanhood, prayer, domesticity, photography, art, life, love. I am alive and it's hitting me in the face. and I'm enjoying receiving. and learning. and thinking.

mabye some of that will feel like coming out sometime...mistakes and all.

End of Day

2010-08-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

I just love sun-set lighting. And I love my guys winding down together.

How 'Bout a Little Lewis

2010-07-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

I love the Pacific Northwest

2010-06-30T18:41:00.001-07:00

2010-06-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

This is the kind of thing that happens when we visit the grandparents.

And I am so thankful, my sister-in-law was able to capture this.

My Monkeys

2010-06-27T19:04:00.000-07:00

Fighting These Rainy-Day- Blues

2010-06-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

"...I get by with a little help from my friends..."

2010-06-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

This picture kind of creeped me out today. My firstborn turns five this month!!! And in this pic, he looks it.

The lack of posting lately can be attributed to the learning curve in the area of cheerfully bringing up three young children and making my home lovely; both of which are a daily chore. But God is so faithful and kind and he brings us along and gives us help and encouragement (known in the form of my MIL [mother-in-law] who organized my kitchen and thus organized my life, as well as Peter Leithart who wrote this article and thus organized my heart).

amen and amen.

We Are All So In Love With Her

2010-05-18T20:54:00.001-07:00

It Pays to be This Boy's Mama

2010-05-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

I actually have a reason to have not updated the blog in the last week. Lewis scratched his cornea with a stick which then became infected. I have had my fill being a mama koala bear to a tender-hearted boy. It was utterly charming, albeit exhausting, to have him latch himself to me for comfort.

KC and I think that Lewis has graduated from Cute School, at the top of his class, no doubt. He's got a fantastic personality. It was really sweet for me to spend so much time holding and chatting with him this past week. He's really a wonderful and bright little boy.

Me: Lewis, can I have a smootch, or what?

Lewis: Or what.

darn.

He's been talking to Colson a lot lately. He calls him Tolsen. Or Bruda, for brother. I'm not sure if they could be more opposite. And they like being together. I love it.

I thought that he'd really have to grow up a lot when baby Caroline made her debut; but, to me, he really hasn't. He really is my little koala cub. Being his mama is such an amazing gift from God. Praise God and cheers for Lewis. Oh, and his eye is all cleared up now. He's back to his old adventurous self. Right now he and Tolsen are outside together hunting warthogs and pretending to eat chocolate. It's a hard knock life in a 70 degree Eugene day today.

And now for the moment the grandparents have been probably been waiting for, some pictures:

Colson Quotes

2010-05-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

Colson: I'll give this flower to bad girls.

Colson: My baby sister is a blessing from God.

Strange and friendly woman: You can feel God all around this place.

Colson: Well, I don't worship false gods.

At this the woman stopped chatting and walked on. haha.

Big Brother

2010-05-05T10:20:00.001-07:00

I am so grateful that Caroline has big brothers. Colson, although can be smothering, adores his sister. When he smothers Caroline, she cries. When he smothers Lewis, Lewis punches him. All in all, however, no one gets smiles and laughs out of Caroline or Lewis more than Colson.

Telling Stories with Grandma

2010-05-01T21:16:00.001-07:00

Telling Stories with Grandma, originally uploaded by Keri__Ann.

My mother is one of the most giving people I know. I love seeing her pour that on my children.

She's Taxed

2010-04-14T11:06:00.001-07:00

This post is for my mom, who is on the tail end of tax season.x All she wants is to play Grandma and instead she's been staring at strangers and loads of paperwork day and night for the past three months. Like the bears rising from hibernation, she too will emerge from the cave that is her office to a world of light and spring and fruit. Happy Spring. Your Grandbabies are waiting for you to gobble them up.

Rain-kissed in April

2010-04-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

April Rain Song

Let the rain kiss you

Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops

Let the rain sing you a lullaby

The rain makes still pools on the sidewalk

The rain makes running pools in the gutter

The rain plays a little sleep song on our roof at night

And I love the rain.

-Langston Hughes

Colson Quote - He's on a Roll Folks

2010-04-07T21:58:00.000-07:00

"Lewis,

Number one: I tie you up sometimes because you punch me in the face.

Number two: I want you to follow God and never go back. Stay focused in God."

Colson Quote

2010-04-05T13:10:00.000-07:00

Context: Getting ready for church and doing something with Colson's hair.

Me: Colson stand still. Up straight. Look at me. This is really important.

*** pause*** "This is really important?" Did I really just say that?

Me: Colson, I was wrong. Doing your hair is not really important. Knowing Jesus is important. Worship is important.

Colson: What if some people made hair an idol?

Me: ha! lots of people do!

Colson, thank you for reminding me what is important on Easter Sunday.

Currently...

2010-03-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

These baby legs have got me swooning:

Look at Caroline's baby cousin. They are both diggin' their little piggies:

I felt like quite the American last wednesday on Lewis' birthday. We went to a local burger joint called Dickie Joes. I ate a beef burger with blue cheese, a handful of fries, and topped it off with an ice cream sundae! wow. It was amazing. Lewis wasn't as into dinner (oddly) but he had no objection whatsoever to his birthday ice cream cone.

What's Colson been up to lately? Well right now he's got a dress shirt halfway tucked into his underwear, his pants got wet so he's not wearing any. He's flying around the house with some toy or another and a pair of binoculars hanging from his neck. The other evening K.C. was sharing with me a mini sermonette when he said, "The only thing they have is hope." To which Colson pipped in, "Excuse me, hope is one thing. And the other thing is money."

Today at church as I was coming back to my seat where Lewis and Colson were sitting next to each other in the pew holding hands I heard Colson responding to something Lewis was saying, "...Right, Lewis. God, That's right."

Colson continues to love on his baby sister; he smothers her, in fact. We have to tell him to back off. It's true that he was the first person to really make her giggle and when I told him that he responded, "The first time a girl laughs a fairy is born. I heard that from Peter Pan."

He's been listening to a bit of Johnny Cash here and there and has started talking with a southern drawl. He is quite the adventure.

Lewis Turns Two!

2010-03-25T16:37:00.001-07:00

Two years ago, shortly after Easter dinner, my water broke. We headed into the hospital to endure what was the most painful couple of hours of my life.

When he was born, I didn't even think to check to see if my baby was a boy or girl. I was only glad we made it out ok.

Now the pain is a distant memory as this little man has made his sweet little way right into my heart.

I can't believe my baby boy is two, yet I can't remember what life was like not having him shine in our lives.

Happy birthday, Lewis. Cheers to looking forward to a full and fun year ahead and to enjoying you as you are today.

This Little Piggie

2010-03-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

50mm; (1/80); f/2.5

50mm; (1/160); f2.5

A Lawson Morning Documentary

2010-03-13T18:04:00.000-08:00

I spent this morning with the children at my folks' home. My dad cooked us omelets. My dad always cooks us omelets. And I always eat them. Because when you cook omelets that often for your children and their children you get a lot of practice. And practice makes perfect. So a stint up I-5 is worth the perfect omelet, among other things, too, of course. To top it off, the morning light was streaming into the kitchen, and I got quite giddy as my camera was calling me, beckoning me.

Lewis has found his way into Grandpa's good graces and enjoyed receiving the benefit of being in "the know" with the man of the house - Benefits include a VIP pass to the omelet stuffers - only he was the one getting a sausage stuffing.

50mm; (1/80); f/2.2

50mm; (1/4000); f/1.4

50mm; (1/125); f/1.4

50mm;(1/125); f/1.4

50mm; (1/1250); f/1.4

While Grandpa was busy with breakfast, I decided to play a joke on him and go outside to take pictures, leaving all my children behind, letting them all to fend for themselves, Grandpa included. Muah hahaha! I couldn't help it. The light was perfect.

50mm; (1/3200); f/3.5

50mm; (1/4000); f/1.4

50mm; (1/640); f/2.8

50mm; (1/4000); f/1.8

The perfect lighting. The perfect omelet. The perfect morning. Thank you God.

The Art of Motherhood

2010-03-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

This is Elise with her firstborn son. He's only a couple weeks younger than Caroline. This picture was taken in tribute to motherhood.

50mm; (1/640); f/1.4

Because Sometimes I Succumb...

2010-03-09T20:33:00.001-08:00

Because Sometimes I Succumb, originally uploaded by Keri__Ann.

...to a preschoolers' diet.

50mm; (1/100); f/1.4

Strike a Pose

2010-03-09T14:39:00.001-08:00

I've been teaching Colson a few things about my camera. He took this photo of KC and I after he prompted us to make a silly face. It makes me happy.

My Darling Baby Girl

2010-03-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

I am overwhelmingly thankful for her.

50mm; (1/250); f/1.4

50mm; (1/125); f/1.4

Cute as a Button? Yes.

50mm; (1/100); f/2.8

Little Lamb

2010-02-24T20:40:00.000-08:00

The Lamb

By William Blake

Little lamb, who made thee?

Dost thou know who made thee,

Gave thee life, and bid thee feed

By the stream and o'er the mead;

Gave thee clothing of delight,

Softest clothing, woolly, bright;

Gave thee such a tender voice,

Making all the vales rejoice?

Little lamb, who made thee?

Dost thou know who made thee?

Little lamb, I'll tell thee;

Little lamb, I'll tell thee:

He is called by thy name,

For He calls Himself a Lamb.

He is meek, and He is mild,

He became a little child.

I a child, and thou a lamb,

We are called by His name.

Little lamb, God bless thee!

My Budding Boy

2010-02-24T12:33:00.001-08:00

Growing bigger but still so baby. Those tiny dimples won't last forever:

50mm; (1/160); f/4.5

Bebe Caroline

2010-02-23T18:30:00.000-08:00

Hello Darlin'. Are you up for a chat?

50mm; (1/80); f/2.2

50mm; (1/500); f/2.2

50mm; (1/160); f/4.5

Scenes in Eugene

2010-02-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

We were first in line waiting for this train to cross the tracks on Saturday.

50mm; (1/40); f/16.0 - Such a high f stop here so that I could get some movement of the train, which was difficult because of how slow it was moving.

We weren't the only ones waiting. This guy was definitely picture worthy.

50mm; (1/2000); f/2.2

Munchkins!

2010-02-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

50mm; (1/160); f/2.5; ISO 200

Home

2010-02-21T16:31:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Sleepy Head

30mm; (1/13); f/4.5; ISO 200 - These settings are different for me, I'm so daring!

50mm; (1/30); f/1.4

I think I shall take more still-life pictures in my future.

Hub

2010-02-21T15:53:00.000-08:00

I've had an explosion of photographic inspiration lately. I'll blame it on an early Spring.

Still Life

2010-02-19T16:57:00.001-08:00

Fading Glory:

50mm; (1/2000); f/1.4

Oh, Time, Where Do You Run Off To?

2010-02-18T08:46:00.000-08:00

Caroline turned 3 months this week. 3 months!? How did that happen? And I will say that your mom is right: time flies. Her favorite thing is talking face to face. I hope this precedes many dates over coffee together.

Lewis is currently shoving a book in my lap. I better go.

The Black and White of Being a Stay-at-Home-Mama

2010-02-16T10:36:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, lovely homemade bread - smelling so good.

30mm - Exposure: 1/4000 - Aperture: f/1.8

Yes, that's right. It's breast-fed baby poop. It was a small sacrifice to keep it off my sofa. What can I say?

30mm - Exposure: 1/4000 - Aperture: f/1.8

Boys Will Be...Dirty

2010-02-11T13:45:00.000-08:00

Spam in my Comments

2010-02-10T16:17:00.000-08:00

Help! Calling all savvy Blogger friends! I'm getting anonymous and highly annoying spam comments on the blog and it's driving me crazy. I'm leaving the one in the latest post (before this one) for an example. I've been going in and manually deleting them. Does anyone know how I can block them? I don't want to have to monitor all my comments before they are published, but maybe that's the only answer?

Something to Remember Me By

2010-02-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

I hope my kids remember things like this about me when they are grown. I have wonderful memories of my mom doing things like this for us - simple yet fun.

So...

2010-02-06T19:12:00.000-08:00

So Typical

30mm; f/2.0; (1/100); ISO 200

So Happy

30mm; f/2.0; (1/60); ISO 200

So Loved
30mm; f/3.2; (1/40); ISO 200

Oregon: How I Love You (even on drippy winter days)

2010-02-04T16:10:00.000-08:00

A helpful Link

2010-02-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed this post by Nancy Wilson:

http://femina.reformedblogs.com/2010/01/27/why-men-dont-lead/

A Closer Look

2010-02-03T16:54:00.001-08:00

Behold, Lewis' new do:

This is my life.

2010-02-02T20:08:00.000-08:00

Tonight I promised my mother-in-law I would update the blog with some photos. That was before I forgot to get my camera out of the van. Said van is gone to a meeting with Hubby. shoot. There were a few pictures I really wanted to edit and post tonight. I usually edit photos on evenings when KC is at a meeting and my kids are in bed. And I look forward to it. But tonight my camera is gone and 2 of my children are not sleeping...yet.

Regardless, I found some pictures that I am happy to share, and one in particular that I am pleased to have, as I had forgotten about it.

This is Lewis, as you probably know:

This is Lewis, a few days later, with his new big-boy haircut:

After I cut his hair and I saw all his gold locks on the ground I nearly cried. After I stopped looking at his fallen hair, and I looked at my boy with his first real short hair cut, I was so mystified by him. He looks so different with his hair short! His eyes seem bigger, his head seems different, and I can't stop looking at him! Who is this little person, so familiar, yet so different?! I'm getting used to it finally. I like it short, but I also like it floppy. Maybe it's because I just really like him. Lewis makes a heavy heart lighter. He's sweet and funny and full of life.

Speaking of hair, Caroline is in the balding-old-man phase where she's rubbing off all the hair on the back of her head. I know I've said it before but I'll say it again. She's such a fabulous baby. Today she rolled over from her front to her back for the first time and she did it 5 times in a row. She loves to engage with eye contact and smiles. I could stare at her all day. She makes having babies seem almost easy. She's a fabulous sleeper and has allowed me to get some rest at night. She is on a great little routine, is flexible, and eats and sleeps great. She's still only 9 lbs at 2 months. Caroline is a wee little thing. I don't think she's destined to be a fat, rolly little baby, but we'll take her. As Colson said yesterday, "Caroline! How sweet she IS!"

Speaking of Colson quotes, last weekend we were at the park and Colson was on the structure with a little girl as her father was close by, keeping an eye on her. She had said she was only 2. KC and I were sitting some distance away, but were close enough to hear the following:

Colson: Do you know God?

Little Park Girl: My name is Fiona.

Colson: I didn't ask what your name is. I asked if you know God!

Little Park Girl: (No response)

Colson: He's the greatest! The most powerful! Almighty!

KC and I were off to the side, just smiling at each other. I wonder what in the world her father was thinking as this random boy was asking her questions about something he's probably never really talked to his daughter about. KC and I were proud. Colson, you are a blessing! It was nothing to him.

On a lighter note, here's another quote from the same day:

Colson: Dad, do you know what?

KC: What?

Colson: I don't like kids that call other kids poop.

Good thinking, Colson. Good thinking.

Colson is a dotter. He is in love with his sister!

Colson: Her eyes are sparkling at me!

This is the look I've been getting from Colson lately. It's usually when he's telling me about some "great" idea he's having. Isn't that the look of somebody who's got fairy tales running through his mind?

This is my life.

Oh, and here's one more picture I thought I could share...because I like it, that's why. And this is for my Mother-in-law, remember. I thought she might like to see her son. He is easy to look at, the handsome man.

Being Daddy

2010-01-26T20:21:00.001-08:00

This pictures makes me smile.

30mm; Exposure: (1/50); Aperture: (f/1.4); ISO 400

What a Guy

2010-01-20T20:14:00.001-08:00

Exposure: (1/125) Aperture: f/1.4

This kid. He's quite the guy. Colson is not easy to put into words. KC and I are often left with a smile and the phrase: "What a guy."

Cutest Double Chin, Ever.

2010-01-18T13:35:00.000-08:00

50mm Exposure: (1/40) Aperture f/2.8

Sabbath Rest

2010-01-16T22:24:00.001-08:00

30mm Exposure: (1/30) Aperture: f/2.2

The Children

2010-01-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

Caroline is really starting to enjoy interaction. During her wide awake times, all she wants is girl talk. :) She's really making an effort to chime into the conversation by cooing and smiling. It's so sweet.

50mm Exposure: (1/25) Aperture: f/1.8

Lewis is always up for kissing and holding his sister, but the problem is that it only lasts up to about 10 seconds, literally, before he proclaims, "Done!" and shoves her straight up and off of his chest. So instead of holding the camera, I have to be ready to catch a baby. I did manage this one though. I'm so happy that Caroline will have these images to see when she's older of how her big brothers have dotted over her.

30mm Exposure: (1/50) Aperture: f/2.2

And of course, once Colson sees the lovin' going on, he needs to be a part of it. I have some images before this following one was taken where he's squeezing himself in and almost squishing Lewis and Caroline. What little Rumrey munchkins they are, and Caroline is already part of the pack.

30mm Exposure: (1/50) Aperture: f/2.2

**Photographer's note: in the first photo of just Caroline, I had her in front of a big window, but she did not have the direct sun on her. Lighting has everything to do with taking good photos. Notice the catchlights in her eyes. A good thing to start practicing is noticing how eyes capture the light. When you can see catchlights in your subjects eyes, you can count on having good illumination and detail. Also notice the subtle shadow the window light creates on her face. Her nose and the left side of the photo captures nice details that really show off her features. Really pay attention to how the shadows fall and what they reveal about your subject. They say a lot about what you are trying to capture.
Hope that may be helpful.

'09 Family Picture

2010-01-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a bit late on this, but Happy New Year and goodbye 2009. It was a great year to be a Rumrey.

(1/80) f/3.2

(1/50) f/4.5

I'm going to start including my exposure and aperture info of my pictures for those of you that may be interested.

A post with no pictures. I've got something better to do...

2010-01-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

There is much to be done. Toys scatter the floor. Pictures need to be taken. Dinner needs assembly. A toilet bowl, or two, could use a scrub. But here I sit with a book and a warm cup of coffee, and best of all, a sleeping baby - cheek pressed against my chest, dead-weight of a body, short, steady breathes in pulse against my own. What a gift I have been given: Life. This life, shared. Thank you God.

At the Grocery Store.

2009-12-28T15:52:00.000-08:00

At the grocery store everyone stops to admire the new baby...

until they see the four year old boy...

hmmmmm, I wonder why. ha!

Anticipation of a Birth Story (of sorts)

2009-12-16T20:49:00.000-08:00

I know this is old news. I mean, she's 8 weeks old already. But I thought this was something I could share. The night I went into labor with Caroline, as I was waiting to see if it were the real deal or if it would prove to be a false alarm, I wrote some of my experience from the day. I couldn't finish as contractions became too strong, but I thought I'd share with you, my reflections on the day and anticipating the birth of our daughter.

Will you rest safe in my arms tonight? Will I feel your new, damp and naked body against my chest, your lungs filling with oxygen for the first time, your eyes opened to the world you will grow to know? Will I get to look into your eyes and hear your voice tonight, the`first of so much more? Here I am, a fruit tree, ripe and ready for the picking, ready to be called mama by another, my daughter.

I have felt the squeeze of labor all evening - this painful pulse –this growing groaning from within.

Walking this afternoon, down to the park we usually avoid, the boys make their rounds: up the play structure, down the slide, up the structure, down the slide, up and down, up and down they go as I, likewise, walk. ‘Round and ‘round, keeping up the movement, anticipating your arrival. And the pain comes in and out, taking my breath away, building, my heart beats stonger as I enter a world out of my control. I am an ocean: peace accosted by the power and pulse of wave, my body squeezes, in and out, in and out the pain and power builds and crashes. And I am taken.

I stopped writing to call KC home from a meeting and call the midwife. KC was home right away and called a friend to watch the boys (thanks, Gina!) and we headed to the hospital. We arrived in time to answer a few questions, sign a paper (or two), and deliver our daughter, Caroline Grace.

When she was born, It took her quite some time before we heard her cry. She was so peaceful and wide awake as I held her against my chest, staring at her for a long time. This has foreshadowed her personality even still as she is very calm, easily soothed, content, and exudes peace.

Giving birth is among the most incredible experiences I will ever know. I feel it is such a privilege to carry these children; a great and overwhelming responsibility and gift. Already, meeting Caroline has enriched our lives abundantly. And to think this is only the beginning.

I almost forgot one

2009-12-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

Colson: Would you be sad if I was killed by a Philistine?

Of Fairy Tales, Star Wars, and Corn Dogs, Of Course.

2009-12-14T12:12:00.000-08:00

There is something about finding humor in my children that helps me to love on them more. When I am unable to see the humor and delight in them, I'm unable to be patient and gracious. For me, seeing the humor in their little quirks and quotes is crucial to not being a long-faced mother. Heaven forbid! I know it happens, God forgive me as that's the last thing I want for them.

Hence, the Colson quotes and writings of their funny little personalities. Isn't our God a playful God to write the stories of children? They are so....unconventional! So bear with me as I share these things with you all, these things that keep me cheerful with the knee-high population dwelling amongst us.

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Colson saw me after I was ready for church on Sunday and proclaimed: "You look beautiful! More beautiful than the Wicked Queen! (gasp) But that's ok. Because she's not here. You won't be killed."

Isn't it funny how children's minds are caught up in fairy tales and stories? I need more of this in my own life. The children's stories are good for me too!

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Colson: I'm glad baby sister is born now. She looks like she loves me.

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Colson: Good job drinking baby sister. Good job. You have another one right here for you to have.

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Me: Question, Colson. Would you like cereal or bagel for breakfast?

Colson: How about corn dogs?

Really, corn dogs? What is a mother to do?

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And finally a quote from Lewis and Caroline.

Caroline: waaaahhhh, waaaaaaahhhhh, waaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh! ect.

Lewis: Bebe, no, bebe

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Lewis, oh Lewis, he is still so much a baby. He loves to cuddle up with "Mama" and "Dada". He doesn't talk much yet, words here and there and gibberish followed my a knowing look, as if he's carrying on a very serious conversation. He follows his brother around with star wars figures and a light saber and can wield that thing impressively for his little stature. He's altogether cute. He loves playing with anything ball and is doing an impressive job staying clear from our christmas tree bulbs. He saw one break; maybe the sharp edges were enough to scare him away. He out eats his brother, both in quantity and in speed. He loves his food, although he's such a little peanut you'd never know it. He's taking to his sister well and likes to kiss her sweetly on the head. He also likes to steal her paci and put it in his own mouth, although he never did like one himself as a babe. He gets so excited when he eats his daily gummy bear vitamin or gets to see his Papa or Grandpa and lets you know it with a hearty "YEAH!!!!"

Everyone told me he would seem this way, and they were right. He did seem HUGE after holding and caring for little Caroline. But when I step back and look at him toddling around, he's still so very tender and little, in need of lots of lovin' and attention. And I'm happy to give it, except when it's time to get ready for church on Sunday mornings. Thank you baby einstein for allowing me to get ready for church each Sunday.

And now my rambling shall come to a halt.

this is happiness

2009-12-05T18:07:00.000-08:00

We're a happy clan. There is a whole lotta lovin' goin' on in our home right now. Maybe it's the plummeting hormones, maybe it's because I haven't cooked since the pancakes the night bebe was born, maybe it was the 2 weeks off work for KC, thanksgiving and the anticipation of Christmas, maybe it's Caroline! maybe it's not having to wear my maternity clothes any more, maybe it's the fact that I took my GIRL to a tea party today, maybe it's because as I type the men of the house are wresting and we're listening to Joni Mitchell. Does it get better than Joni Mitchell's Blue album? All I know is that God is good to us; I'm so thankful.

Here's baby sister's debut with her eyes open. I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying being able to doll her up in girly accessories and outfits. It definitely puts the tomboy in me to shame.

So far we've heard that she looks a bit like Colson, but it's hard for me to see resemblances at this point. It will be fun to watch her develop.

I mean, who wouldn't be a happy mama when you get lovin' on like this:

and this:

And a daddy like this:

At thanksgiving we shot my brothers hunting rifle. sorry people, i don't remember what kind it is, although my brother gave me all the details pertaining to which model and type it is. woops. there are just some things a woman doesn't care much about. so we all had fun blowing up a cinder blocks and pumpkins. Hey, I was born in Southeast Idaho, what do you expect? Here is Colson looking through the scope.

And here is my adorable nephew Solomon, just for more cuteness factor:

Colson Quotes

2009-12-01T20:21:00.000-08:00

This boy is so excited about his baby sister. He's constantly talking about her or to her. He raises the tone of his voice when he speaks to her, and he says the sweetest things, all the time, about how precious she is, and how beautiful she is. Seriously, when he's holding her, it's the only time it's not difficult for him to be sitting still.

Because of her birth, we've been hearing some hilarious Colson quotes. Here are a couple I've written down:

"If someone shot her, I would throw them to the wild beasts of the earth."

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"She looks as pretty as night and day. She looks as the sun shoots across the sky with beauty" - Where does he come up with this stuff?!?

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Do you know how we can play hide and seek with baby sister? We can burst your belly open and put baby sister inside. Then we can go to the doctor and she can fix it. and we can come home and I can count! Then I can find her in your belly!

Wouldn't that be a great idea?

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And here's one from dialogue with Lewis:

Lewis: blah, blah, blah.....

Colson: What Lewis?

Lewis: blah, blah, blah...

Colson: What Lewis? Babel? The Tower of Babel? Are you talking about the Tower of Babel?

She's Stealing the Show (or, the blog)

2009-11-28T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hope you don't mind me sharing some more pictures of sweet baby Caroline...

width="1024" height="685" alt="Caroline" />

Giving Thanks

2009-11-26T14:41:00.000-08:00

Caroline and I did her first photoshoot and boy did she make me work to get some of these shots of her. She's such a dear little thing and we are enjoying her so much. She is still pretty new but is such a content babe. There is nothing like a newborn! I'm having a hard time deciding which ones to post.

Today my heart is so full of thanksgiving for God's provisions, His goodness to us, this family he's placed us in. My cup runs over.