the rein family

Another week passes...

2012-01-25T19:13:00.000-08:00

I'm guessing since we didn't here from our agency today it means another week has passed and our paperwork has still not been submitted to Embassy. God has given me so much peace about our situation this week and I'm so thankful!!! We so want her here but trust that God knows when is best. My sweet friend Tammy is in Ethiopia right now and sent some great pictures of Ada (i think her top 2 teeth are poking out)...so thankful she is growing and smiling!!!

I'm so excited to be going to the Created for Care adoption retreat this weekend in Atlanta. It will be great to learn more about adoption and meet some other families who are going through the exact same thing.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may over flow" Romans 15:13

Still nothing!!

2012-01-16T16:43:00.000-08:00

It has been almost 11 weeks since we were in Ethiopia and our paperwork has still not been submitted to the US Embassy. Praying that I will understand God's timing and continue to trust Him. We have received several new pictures from a few families who have traveled recently and are so thankful for that :)

She is getting teeth!!

She is pulling up!!

It has been so hard to miss these milestones but it has been so nice to have an awesome support system!! The families I have met through our agency have been amazing and so encouraging!!! One friend emailed me last week and reminded me that God loves these babies like crazy...it was nice to be reminded of the bigger picture. This is not about me and God has an awesome plan that I feel so blessed to be a part of. I was sent an encouraging card this week with a bible verse that reminds me:
The LORD your God is with you,
He is mighty to save,
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

I feel so thankful today that I'm a mommy to 4 of God's children. Looking so forward to the day we are all together and praising Him for the process!!!

Catching up

2012-01-16T15:45:00.000-08:00

So life has gotten in the way yet again and I haven't been able to keep up with a lot of things...blogging is one of them. And since I keep this blog in hopes of having it made into a book for my kids one day it is important for me to catch up!!!

Lyla Grace had her school Christmas pageant. She was an angel and took the performance very seriously :) Love hearing her sing about Jesus...melts my heart!!!

We went camping with the Wright's at Disney's Ft. Wilderness campground. The kids LOVE it!!

Carter and Mason

Our 10 person tent

Mason roasting marshmallows with Chip & Dale

Group pic with the kids chowing down on some Smores

We celebrated Mason's 7th birthday. We went to the mall for lunch and some playtime at Pottery Barn Kids (for some reason they think that is the coolest thing to do??). I was able to capture a picture with all 3 kids looking at the camera...rare moment!!

That night we went to the Armstrong's for a wonderful dinner and some cupcakes!

Kendall, Lyla Grace & Brooke

Garrett, Jonas & Tate

Then it was off to Nashville for some Christmas fun!!!

Yes everyone is looking at the camera...AMAZING!!

Cookie decorating with Nanna (a Christmas tradition)

Christmas morning

Tate loved his new cars

Hard to get the cousins to pose...too excited about Wii Star Wars game

The girls :)

One of the best things about going home to Nashville is catching up with my girlfriends. We have been friends since elementary school and this was the first time in years we have all been together at the same time with all of our kids. Among the 5 of us we have 10 kids (only 9 pictured missing sweet Ada).

Jamie, Tanil, me, Courtney & Steph

It is hard to believe that we have been friends for almost 30 years...crazy!!!

My most favorite place to be in Nashville is Radnor Lake. I have so many good memories hiking with my mom growing up. The kids love exploring so we met my brother's family for a cold windy day.

watching the waterfall

skipping rocks

Love this picture...so hard to get all of the cousins together!!! Makes me excited to think the next time we are all together Ada will be with us!!!!

Missing Ada

2011-12-13T19:33:00.000-08:00

We just received new pics of Ada today. It has been 5 weeks since we were with her in Ethiopia and she has changed so much. My heart is aching everyday that passes without her. Please pray that our agency will submit her paperwork to the US Embassy SOON!! Pray the US Embassy will approve our case in a timely manner. We want to bring her home!!!!!!!!!

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Laser Boy

2011-12-10T19:34:00.000-08:00

Clay gathered up a few of Mason's buddies and their dads to play laser tag for his 7th birthday. The kids had a blast running around and "shooting". I think the dads had fun too :) So glad Mason was able to celebrate since it is always hard to pull a party together this close to Christmas.

Thankful!!

2011-11-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend in Ozark with Clay's family. My dad joined us for dinner which made it even more special!!

The Cooks!!

Paw Paw and Lyla Grace

Grandmama and Isa

Turkey Bowl

Will & Clay being reminded how old they are :)

The boys

Our turkey turns 2

2011-11-24T12:33:00.000-08:00

Tate's birthday was on Thanksgiving this year so we were able to celebrate with Clay's family in Alabama. Clay's aunt made an amazing birthday cake with his 3 favorite things...an Auburn truck filled with letter cookies splashing in a puddle.

Tate is such a blessing to our family. His sweet snuggly spunky always moving and enthusiastic personality makes being his mom AMAZING and WONDERFUL!!! I love this little boy and so thankful for him!!!!

Our Adoption Journey-Part One

2011-11-20T18:50:00.001-08:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

We passed court...Yippee!!

2011-11-08T17:23:00.000-08:00

Introducing our sweet baby girl Ada Beteal Rein...isn't she beautiful!!! We had an amazing time with her in Ethiopia!! I wish I was able to write more details but I'm emotionally and physically exhausted!! Please join us in praying that we will be able to bring her home very soon.

We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

A glimpse of our baby girl

2011-10-27T19:21:00.000-07:00

We got to see a picture of our baby girl today...such a blessing!! I am constantly checking the site that families from our agency post to when they are visiting the care centers and tonight there was a close up :)
Words can't describe how beautiful she is!!! Hopefully we will pass court shortly after our appointment on Nov. 4th and then we can finally post pictures.
We leave Tuesday to meet her!!! So excited, anxious, and trying to remember every second that God is in control of all of this and knows the outcome already (isn't that cool)!!!
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

Sooooo Excited!!

2011-10-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

We received new pictures and measurements of BB today. I can't describe how beautiful she is...as soon as she is offically ours I will be able to post a picture :) She is getting so big...7 months this week. I can't believe we have missed so much of her life already. We are traveling in 4 weeks to meet our baby girl!!! My emotions are all over the place happy, sad, hopeful, anxious. I will be taking 2 large duffle bags full of donations for the care centers. I am including a list of items just in case anyone is interested in helping me fill them up!!
diapers any size
diaper rash cream
baby lotion
baby soap & shampoo
tooth paste
tooth brushes (toddler & school age)
wide tooth combs for ethnic hair
toys
leapfrog toys for learning
bumbo seats
cortisone cream
neosporin ointment
band aids
bottles
gently used clothes
croc style shoes

Feel free to email me and I can arrange pick up for any items you are willing to donate or you can donate money by clicking my donate button.
Thanks for all of your prayers and support!!

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Love my hubby!!

2011-09-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

If you don't know my husband I'm sorry!! He is the best man I know...by far!!! I started working part time about a month ago to help us raise money for our adoption and it has been a HUGE adjustment for our family. He has been so supportive and helpful picking up the slack in all areas! We are so thankful to have him show up and be the leader of our family. Thank you Clay for loving me so well!!!!

Flag football

2011-09-27T09:59:00.000-07:00

Mason started playing flag football a couple weeks ago. Grandmama and Granddaddy came in town to watch his game on Saturday. He was so proud to show off his skills for them. I know I'm his mom and supposed to think this but he is really good and fast...just like his daddy!!!

Lyla Grace and Tate got some snuggle time with Grandmama and Granddaddy.

War Eagle

2011-09-10T10:09:00.000-07:00

Uncle Will brought Eric and Isabella over for our Weekly Auburn football tailgate party. The kids loved playing together and cheering for Auburn. The kids did not have much game watching time due to excessive playing :) Love that!!

Summer Playdays

2011-08-31T09:35:00.000-07:00

I love when our kids really enjoy the simple things in life!!! This was Tate's first real introduction to playing in the hose and he LOVED it!! It is also crazy to think that people are dying all of the world because they don't have access to clean water. We are so blessed!!!

Tate is obsessed with letters...no joke. He learned almost all of them at about 15 months old. Everywhere we go he is pointing to letters and today he became fascinated with the storm drain.

Our baby girl

2011-08-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

We received new pictures of our baby girl today. So exciting to see her growing and yet so sad to see how much we are missing!! She is six months old and she will probably be a year before we get to bring her home. Everyone tells me the time will go by fast but it seems like forever! We will be leaving for Ethiopia on November 1st to meet her and go to court. Please pray all documents will be submitted and approved for us to pass court on November 4th.

Tee 'em high and let 'em fly

2011-08-28T10:23:00.000-07:00

The golf marathon was last weekend and I am so happy, grateful and thankful to say that we raised several thousand dollars!!! The guys played over 100 holes...yes 100 holes of golf and the heat index was over 100 degrees. Here are some pictures of the guys. They all sacrificed a lot to help us raise money for BB and we are so thankful for each of them. Thanks Ben, Bryan, Ryan, Dustin, Chris, Will, Scott (thanks to their sweet wives too!!) and my dad who drove from Tennessee to help support us. God has shown up in a big way and we feel so blessed that he has given us the opportunity to be parents to this precious girl!!

Bringing BB Home One Hole at a Time

2011-08-15T17:49:00.000-07:00

We are having a golf fundraiser this weekend to help us bring baby BB home from Ethiopia. Now that we have a court date in November we get to make plans to meet her...can't express how exciting this is in words!!!
Several of our dear friends, Clay's brother and my dad will be playing "Marathon Golf" (100 holes in one day) on Saturday, August 20th. You can help us by sponsoring Clay for $1 per hole (or any amount you would like to donate). It is a short par 3 course so hopefully they will not seriously injure themselves trying to accomplish this task. Any contribution will be greatly appreciated and will go to an account strictly for the adoption process. The money raised will help us with plane tickets and the costs of the adoption which will exceed $30,000.
Donations can be made by clicking on the button at the top right corner of our blog.

Thanks to those of you who have already sponsored Clay!!!! We are amazed everyday by your generosity and support for our family!!

We have a COURT DATE...yippee

2011-08-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

So happy to say that our official court date is November 4th. We are so excited that we are scheduled before the courts close for the rainy season. Praising the Lord today to be another step closer to having BB in our arms!!!

It takes a village

2011-08-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

It has been miraculous to watch God bring so many people together for His glory. This weekend we had an adoption fundraiser garage sale to help raise money for our plane tickets to Ethiopia (we will travel twice). Several of our friends and family donated items for us to sell (Thank you, Thank you, Thank you). We were able to raise $1600...can you believe it??? I don't know why I am surprised when God moves in a big way. The kids also had a lemonade stand and our sweet 10 year old neighbor Jasmine baked cupcakes and helped us all weekend. My sweet friend Mindy volunteered her entire Friday to help me with the sale. Our babysitter volunteered to watch Tate on Friday and my best friend Heidi took Tate to her house on Saturday (hard to focus with a 20 month old trying to run into the street). It was awesome to be able to share our story with so many people that I would have never had the opportunity to meet. Complete strangers were praying with us and so excited for us! It was great to show people pictures of BB and talk about her for 2 days...it really makes me want to hold her and love on her more than ever!!!
We are still waiting to hear from our agency about our scheduled court date. If we don't hear anything this week then it will be the first of October before we will know (the courts close for 6 weeks due to the rainy season). We know all of this is in God's perfect timing but selfishly I want to know soon!!!

My mom made us shirts to wear for the sale (The shape of Africa with a heart on Ethiopia).

Our mail woman was our first customer on Saturday...the kids were so excited!! Lyla Grace walked around showing people the pictures of baby BB and telling them "This is my baby sister in Africa". She was so proud!!

Forgot to take pictures of Friday so this is Saturday morning and we sold most of the stuff already (people were so generous with their donations).

Adoption Fundraiser Garage Sale

2011-08-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

We are having a garage sale this Friday, Aug 5th & Sat., Aug 6th from 7am to 1pm to help raise money for our plane tickets to pick up BB. Just wanted to post a list of some of the things we will be selling. Thanks to all of my sweet friends who donated items to help us!!!! Please pass it on to your friends!!

Video Camera
Laptop
Fax machine
Couch & loveseat
Queen mattress
Desk
Dresser
Nightstand
Coffee tables
End tables
Pottery Barn bar
Chair
Lamps
Men's shirts (XXL, XL, L, M) Pants & Shorts
Women's Clothes all sizes
Kids clothes & shoes
Wood ladder
Mirrors/Wall Decor
Sheet sets
Rugs
Baby Items (Bumbo with tray, bathtub, crib bedding, car seats, snap & go stroller, baby gate, backpack carrier, Diaper champ, cart covers, changing table, potty and lots more)
Kids toys (puzzles, games, kitchen, Dora scooter and lots more)

2 steps closer

2011-07-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

It seems like forever until we will be able to hold sweet "BB" (that is our nickname for our baby girl)!! The good news it that we are 2 steps closer. Our paperwork was submitted for a court date on July 18th AND we received our I-171H form today for immigration clearance. We will still have to wait atleast 4 months to meet her and go to court but it makes me feel better that we are taking baby steps.
Please pray for patience and peace during this long waiting process. We truly appreciate all of your prayers and support!!!

Thankful

2011-07-10T12:39:00.000-07:00

Several months ago when God began tugging on our hearts to adopt a baby our biggest fear was how would we afford international adoption. After lots of prayer and advice from friends who had been down this same road we decided God was really calling us to adopt even though we didn't have any money. We trusted He would provide. At the time we didn't know what that was going to look like but we started all of the paperwork and began the adoption process. In the last few weeks we have had over 40 families donate money. We feel so thankful and blessed by all of the support from our family and friends. Even families who don't even know Clay and I personally have sent us donations to help us bring our baby girl home. Although we have a long way to go to reach our goal it is amazing how quickly God can move if we just take the first step and trust His plan is much bigger. I feel so thankful to serve such a mighty God!!!

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:6

Big boy bed

2011-07-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

Tate started climbing out of his crib a few weeks ago so we decided to make the transition to a big bed. This was his first night in his big boy bed. Hope this was the right decision!!! I have a feeling there is alot less sleep in my future!!

Little Stinker!!

2011-07-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

This cute little boy is full of mischief!!! I heard him talking on his monitor when he woke up this morning. Before I could get him he had climbed out of his crib and began walking down the stairs!!! Guess it is time for a tent on his crib or move him to a big bed...not ready for this transition!!!

Day on "the compound"

2011-07-03T06:16:00.000-07:00

My sister in laws sweet parents invited us to "the compound" to play and swim. "The compound" is about an hour south of Nashville where her parents and siblings live. They have built an awesome pool for all of the families.

Lyla Grace loved riding the tractor. Her cousin Teddy rode with her most of the time and showed her how to drive.

The slide was a hit too! Tate even slid down...once was enough for him.

Mr. Gobble took Tate and Emma Claire on a ride on the ranger. He was a little scared at first but loved it. The other kids loved riding too.

Paw Paw

2011-07-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

We met my dad at the park tonight for pizza and playtime. The kids love being with Paw Paw and so do I!! Such a sweet kind grandfather!!!

Nanna Camp

2011-06-30T06:03:00.000-07:00

On Thursdays during the summer my mom has Nanna camp. My brothers children come to her house to play and learn about Jesus. My kids were so excited to join in on the fun!!!

The girls made a cake for our 4th of July party.

All of the kids decorated the garage for the party.

Waiting on the cake and ice cream!!

One step closer!!

2011-06-29T06:58:00.000-07:00

Our dossier arrived in Ethiopia today!! We are one step closer to bringing baby BB (that is what we are calling her for now) home!! It will take them about 1 month to translate our dossier and submit us for a court date. After they submit us for a court date it will take about 3-4 months to go to court and then about 3 months later we will be able to go back and pick her up!!
The support we have recieved from our family and friends has been overwhelming!!! We are so thankful to each and every one of you for your support. Again we are in awe of God's work in all of this...He is amazing!!

Radnor Lake

2011-06-25T05:51:00.000-07:00

Love me some Radnor lake!!! One of my favorite places in Nashville. My mom and I spent alot of time here hiking during my college years and it brings back great memories. The kids love it to. It is not unusual to see deer, snakes, turtles and otters. Today we saw turtles and a beautiful butterfly.

Day at the park

2011-06-24T05:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to one of my favorite parks in Brentwood...Crockett Park.

Tate playing peek a boo

Lyla Grace loves her big brother!!

Is it Christmas??

2011-06-23T05:25:00.000-07:00

No but you would think so by there excitement...we are at Nanna's!! The kids absolutely love coming to her house. Clay drove us to Nashville and flew back to Orlando to work for 2 weeks.

Playing the piano is one of Lyla Grace's favorite things to do. I think she will be a singer songwriter...loves to make up her own songs.

Grandpa Tim is a superstar.

Nanna turned the garage into a play area for the kids...omplete with centers (reading, art, and home). Lyla Grace wanted us to turn on music and she would play babies in the home center or do art for hours.

Tate calls Nanna "Nina". So cute!!

Wonderful day!

2011-06-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I was feeling a little overwhelmed with fear and worry about our baby girl being so far away. Is she being cared for? Is she healthy? Is she happy? I prayed God would give me peace and take away my fears. Today I received an email that someone from our agency had posted pictures from the care center in Harar where our baby girl is living. I was able to see some wonderful pictures of her which gave me so much peace. She said she was being held by one of the nannies when she arrived. She was alert, happy and seemed to be close to normal weight. Again I am in awe of God's plan for our family. We feel so thankful that He chose us to be her family!!!!

Exciting news...

2011-06-21T19:12:00.000-07:00

Clay and I are happy to announce we accepted a referral for a 3 month old baby girl from Ethiopia. Can you believe it???? We mailed our dossier to our agency 2 weeks ago and expected to wait up to 8 months for a baby girl. We never thought it was possible to have a referral this quick but nothing is impossible with God. (Luke 1:37) We really feel God orchestrated all of this in His perfect timing. We are in awe!!!!

What's next? We will travel in about 4-5 months to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for our court date. If we pass court we will travel back to pick up our baby girl 10 to 12 weeks later. Please pray for our sweet baby girl. That she will receive what she needs and be loved on as much as possible. Please pray for Clay and I that our fears will not overcome us and we will ask God for help.

Clay and I are so thankful for all of the support we have received!! The encouragement and love have been overwhelming and so inspiring. God is sooooooo good!!

Then you will call and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say; here am I. Isaiah 58:9

Putting the Pieces Together

2011-06-15T18:06:00.000-07:00

Our adoption process has offically begun and we are so excited to share our journey with you. We have a substantial amount of money to raise in the next few months. It is a bit overwhelming however we fully believe that God will provide.
In effort to raise money for the upcoming fees we purchased this 500 piece puzzle. When I was trying to find the perfect puzzle I came across The White Umbrella by Slyvia Walker...

When we first decided to adopt a baby from Ethiopia I read a book There is No Me Without You by Melissa Fay Greene. Besides it being a life changing book it had a reference about religious Ethiopian women carrying umbrellas in a display of gratitude to God for answered prayers. We are so grateful to God for leading us and give Him all the glory.

We are inviting you to "sponsor" a piece of the puzzle for $10. With each piece of the puzzle you sponsor we will right your name as a permanent reminder of your part in bringing our baby girl home.

Once all of the pieces are sponsored we will have it framed and hang it in our house. It will be a constant reminder for all those who supported us on this journey.

If you are interested in sponsoring a puzzle piece please mail to Rein Adoption Fund 1925 Parks Oaks Avenue, Orlando, FL 32808.

We want to thank you so much for your encouragement and support in this awesome journey!!!!

Operation paperwork...complete!!

2011-06-07T11:50:00.000-07:00

Our dossier paperwork is complete and on its way to our agency!! It is hard to believe that it took less than a month to complete our homestudy and compile all of the documents needed for our adoption. The next few months we will be waiting on our agency to match us with a baby girl :) Please pray for me to be patient during the next few months. Also please pray for our sweet baby and her family in Ethiopia.

Family Fun Beach Week

2011-06-04T11:51:00.000-07:00

We spent the week of Memorial Day at New Smyrna Beach with 5 other families. My mom (Nanna) came with us which made the week even more special. It was an awesome week relaxing and playing.

Family picture on our last morning.

The kids enjoyed morning walks on the beach with Nanna!!

Group picture with all the kids (Armstrongs, Reins, Wrights, Wallers and Kallenbachs)

The boys (mostly Scott) built a monster truck ramp and tunnel.

Nanna and Tate

Lyla Grace enjoyed her boogie board in the pool more than the ocean :)

Last night at JB's Fish Camp to celebrate Scott's birthday.

All grown up!!

2011-05-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast this school year has passed...I have a 1st grader!!! Mason had his last day of Kindergarten today. What a wonderful year :) TFA was a perfect fit for our family and we feel so blessed Mason was able to attend school there this year. His classmates voted him Best Boy Athlete at the awards ceremony today. We are so proud of our sweet boy!!!!!! Thank you Lord

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

2 Timothy 4:7

Let the paperwork begin!

2011-05-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

Our sweet friends (Armstrongs and Irvins) have really helped us get a head start on all of the paperwork to start the adoption. I scheduled our home study today and have ordered birth and marriage certificates. I love to do lists and accomplishing tasks so bring it on!!! I can't begin to express how excited I am about having another child!!! I feel the excitement of pregnancy but without all of the physical yuckiness :) I would write more but I have lots to do!!!!

Exciting News

2011-05-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Over the past couple of years Clay and I have talked about adopting a child but that is all it really was, talk. We have friends and family that have gone through this process and we were always in awe of the experience and the courage to follow God’s call. All of that talking that we did we believe was God preparing us to take the next step. We have decided that we are going to adopt a child and more than likely she will come from Ethiopia. We chose Ethiopia for multiple reasons, but the below video that is linked (from another family who adopted) will help to illustrate why. We are still not sure of the time frame but are leaning on God and His perfect timing.

Thank you for letting us share our lives with you. There are some things that are just so exciting that we cannot help but to share. Life is a great ride if you just let go and let God lead you. This is where Clay and I are right now. Please pray for our family, for the courage to see this through and to trust in God, not to lean on our own thoughts or fears, because they will surely lead us astray.

I'm back...i think :)

2011-04-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

So it has been about 18 months since I have posted anything...lots has happened!!! God blessed us with sweet baby Tate on November 24, 2009. Three children have definitely made life more interesting to say the least!

Just a short recap of the past year:

Mason started Kindergarten this year and we have loved watching him grow and learn...his school and teacher have been such a blessing to our family. He loves Auburn football almost as much as his dad (if that is possible).

Lyla Grace turned 4 last week and carries the title of "assistant mom" very seriously. She loves being a big sister and helping me whenever possible. I love her independence and patiently trying to keep up with her mood swings...not sure who she got that from ;)

Tate has been such an awesome addition to our family!!!! It has been so fun watching him interact with Mason and Lyla Grace! He is already copying everything Mason does...good and bad!

I'm so excited about what God has planned for us in the future and hopefully I will be better about sharing!!!

2011-04-23T18:46:00.000-07:00

Tate liked taking the eggs out of his basket...Lyla Grace was trying to show him what to do :)

The past few years we have been going to Gigi's church Easter egg hunt. Gigi loves showing off her great grandchildren to her friends and we love any excuse to spend time with her. So thankful she has been healthy enough to have a relationship with our children.

Ft. Wilderness Weekend Celebration

2011-04-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Lyla Grace's 4th birthday weekend with the Wright family at Ft. Wilderness resort at Disney. Great weekend with great friends!!!

Kids getting their "crazy" out before bedtime. I was a little worried about sleeping with 3 kids in a tent but everyone actually slept.

Lyla's party

Clay cooked us a pancake breakfast

boat ride with the birthday girl

Roasted smores with Chip and Dale and sang campfire songs. Lyla Grace got a little extra attention from the campfire singer and she got to share with hundreds of people that she is 4. We all sang Happy Birthday...she felt so special and her face was glowing.

Mason and Lyla Grace swimming at the pool

Lyla's birthday snack

2011-04-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Clay, Tate and I took Lyla Grace a special snack to school to celebrate her birthday with her class. She was so excited to wear her crown and share her birthday song with her baby Tate.

No more Justin Bieber

2011-04-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

So people keep commenting on Tate's hair calling him Justin Bieber. Today I finally broke down and cut it. He looks so grown up :(

Sunday in the Park

2011-03-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood has a festival at one of the parks each year. The kids love going to ride ponies, play in the bounce houses and dance to Mr. Richard while he sings his crazy songs. Good times!!

Big girl bike

2011-03-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

Lyla Grace got her new bike today. It is an early birthday present so she can practice before we go camping for her birthday weekend. Clay is the best teacher...I just love that about him. He taught her how to ride her bike in a few minutes and never got frustrated when she would scream "I can't do it!" He is so patient and kind!!

Daddy Daughter Dance

2011-03-04T18:01:00.000-08:00

Clay took Lyla Grace to the annual Daddy Daughter Dance at Northland church. We spent the afternoon getting ready for her special date with daddy. I painted her nails and got her all prettied up!! They met some of her friends and their daddys at Antonio's for dinner. Then they were off to dance the night away...well not so much together but Lyla and her friends danced and ate lots of goodies :)

Lyla Grace and her best friend Kendall

Family beach day

2011-02-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

The weather was gorgeous so we decided to drive over to New Smyrna beach for the day. Mason taught
Lyla Grace how to boogie board. Tate loved the water and didn't mind when the waves knocked him over...he kept going back for more.

Someone had dug a huge hole in the sand and the kids played in it for hours. It was a great way to confine Tate to one place. Love spending time together as a family. These children are so precious!!!

Mason's surprise

2011-02-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

My neighbor and I have been working in my yard all week and today we found a snake. A Florida ringneck...non poisonous. Mason is facisnated with all animals but has a special place in his heart for reptiles. So my neighbor put it in a small jar so I could save it for him when he got home from school. He was so excited to actually have a snake (he has been asking to get one for a pet lately) that he collected leaves, dirt and sticks and made a little habitat in the jar. After an hour or so we (or me) decided he better let it go knowing it wouldn't survive in the "habitat".

Ouch!!

2011-01-17T17:16:00.000-08:00

So a few weeks ago when my mom was in town we rearranged a few things around the house...hung some pictures and put one of my pottery vases on top of our entertainment center.

Today was a crazy day. Lyla Grace and Tate were playing on the floor in the living room and Lyla Grace started opening and closing one of the cabinet doors on the entertainment center. Lets just say she wasn't doing it very gently. All of a sudden I heard a loud crashing sound followed by the loudest scream to possibly come out of a 3 year olds mouth. I looked over my shoulder and the really heavy clay vase that had been placed on top of the entertainment center had fallen (slamming the cabinet door was probably the cause) on Lyla's head. I tried to keep my cool while she was inconsolable, Tate was hysterical (from the loud crash and screaming 3 year old) and glass was everywhere. Blood everywhere and not really knowing how to handle the situation so I called Clay at work and he rushed home to take Lyla to the doctor. She only needed 1 staple and I'm so glad I was not there to witness it. He said she was really brave and only cried for a second.

Mason's 100th day of school

2011-01-17T17:10:00.000-08:00

Today was Mason's 100th day of school at TFA. Of course I procrastinated on his costume but it turned out pretty good. He felt comfortable wearing it so that is what counts right? I sprayed hair spray in his hair and sprinkled baby powder in it to make it look gray. Not that I saw the other kids in his class but I'm sure he was the cutest :)

So cool!!

2011-01-15T17:00:00.000-08:00

We were walking around Lake Baldwin today and Mason spotted a bald eagle in a nest. We stopped and watched it for a while...very fascinating. Mason LOVES wild animals and can tell you facts about all different kinds. The eagle is at the top of his list since we love Auburn and one of the mascots is an eagle.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T12:57:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve night at Gigi's this year. Thought the kids would be a little disappointed not waking up at their own house but didn't phase them a bit. We love spending the holidays with family. So thankful for everything God has given us. We are so blessed!!!

Cookie Monsters

2010-12-19T12:35:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do around Christmas is decorate Christmas cookies. My mom started the tradition with us years ago and my kids love it now too!! When we are done decorating we have pretty much eaten all of the cookies :) YUMMY!!!

Christmas with the other Rein family

2010-12-14T13:18:00.000-08:00

Clay's brother (Will) and his wife Karla will be in Costa Rica for Christmas this year so they came to visit and open presents before they leave. We got some great pics of all of us to give Grandmama and Granddaddy of all their grandkids.We love spending time with their sweet family !!!!

Our little star

2010-12-14T13:05:00.000-08:00

Lyla Grace had her Christmas program at school today. She was the star (the cutest one I have ever seen)!! So sweet!!!!

Mason's 6th birthday party

2010-12-12T12:09:00.000-08:00

Mason had a football party today to celebrate his 6th birthday! Although it wasn't how we planned (funny God loves to teach me this lesson over and over) the party was supposed to be at the park but it was 50 degrees and rainy. At the last minute I called the parents and we had everyone come to our house instead. It stopped raining long enough for everyone to play some of the games I had planned outside. Mason was so happy and that was all that really mattered :)

Christmas Parade

2010-12-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

We went to the Christmas parade tonight in Baldwin Park with the Armstrong's. Love celebrating with wonderful friends...our kids love each other and it is so fun to watch them play together!!

Turkey Day/Tate's 1st birthday

2010-11-25T11:28:00.000-08:00

We went to Gigi's for Thanksgiving. My dad (Paw Paw) drove down from Nashville to celebrate with us. It was an extra special Thanksgiving because our sweet baby Tate turned 1.

Waiting on the turkey!!

Granddaddy in his floral apron...nice!

Paw Paw and Mason

Our little turkey turns 1!! WOW is all I can say. I feel so blessed that God has given me this sweet child to raise. He is such a sweet cuddly spunky active fun boy and we are soooooo THANKFUL!!!

DOWN SET HUT

2010-11-12T11:42:00.000-08:00

Mason had his first flag football game this morning. Unfortunately Clay was at the Auburn game but I tried to take as many pictures as possible. The first play of the game Mason ran the ball over half way down the field. He is so quick and focused...I love it!!!

Tate and Lyla Grace were troopers. I have to admit it was hard to watch Mason and keep an eye on a very quick 11 month old. Lyla Grace was a good little helper...she loves her baby brother.

Halloween weekend

2010-10-31T11:17:00.000-07:00

This year we got to go trick or treating 2 nights...every parents dream :) We met my brothers family in AL for the weekend and Ozark celebrated Halloween on Saturday night.

On Sunday went spent our night at the Armstrongs with our Orlando friends. The kids thought this was sooooo cool. I loved all of the candy...truly I think I ate more than they did :)

Gotta love how Tate's diaper had leaked and I didn't even realize until I looked at the pictures later...Mother of the year!!!!

Alabama Campfire

2010-10-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

Drove up to Ozark for the Auburn vs Arkansas game this weekend...as we do most weekends in the fall. But this year Clay's dad built a firepit at their house. The kids couldn't wait to roast marshmallows and hang out by the fire (not much of this in Florida)!!!

Lyla Grace being her silly self (wish I could remember what was so funny)!!

Cassius even got to join in on the fun :)

3rd Annual Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

For the last few years we have gone to the Pumpkin Patch in Zellwood, FL with our sweet friends. This year The Armstrongs and half of The Maynards joined us.

Mason on the zipline

One of many attempts of a group picture...so much fun with 3 and 4 year olds

Oh no...Tate is walking!!!

2010-10-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

Although he took his first steps while we were in AL a couple weeks ago he is walking everywhere now! I can't believe I have a 10 month old walker. Mason didn't walk until he was almost 14 months and Lyla Grace was 1 yr. I thought I atleast had a couple more months :( I guess I have to embrace this stage but his little life has gone by so fast!!!

Lake Martin with the Rein's

2010-09-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

We spent a wonderful weekend at the lake with clay's family. We rented a boat and innertube and the kids thought it was the coolest place...ever!

Eric and Mason on the innertube. Tate's 1st boat ride.

Isabella and Aunt Karla

The guys (pretty cute)!!!

Taking a ride with my girl while Mason and Eric and being pulled on the innertube...good times!!!

Clemson vs. Auburn

2010-09-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

We left Lake Martin for some adult time (and Mason) and went to the Auburn vs. Clemson game. It was

H-O-T hot but we (really just me) tried to make the best of it. Best part we won 27-24!!

Clay's best friend Dwight at the tailgate

Mason taking a break from playing football with Eric.

Clay and I got to actually spend some time together with Mason (Grandmama kept the other littles)!

Soccer Star!!!

2010-09-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Mason started playing soccer and seems to really enjoy it. Not sure what he likes better...soccer or getting to hang out with his best friend Carter :) Probably Carter but he is actually good!! It has been fun going and cheering him on as a family. Even Lyla Grace gets to have some Owen time.

Tate even enjoys the games too!! Amazing how the 3rd child can fall asleep anywhere!!

Mason's 1st day of Kindergarten

2010-08-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

I can't beleive this day has come!!! All of the anticipation and excitement has now turned to pure sadness!!! My sweet baby boy must now go and spend most of his days without me!! I read the sweetest prayer recently that I would like to share.

Please Lord steer them away from envy and from sin when you can. Teach them it is far more honorable to fail than to cheat, teach them to have faith in you, even when many may say they are wrong, teach them to have their own ideas, to be gentle with gentle people and patient with tough people. Try to give our child strength not to follow the crowd when everyone else is. Teach them to listen to all men, but teach them also to filter all they hear on a screen of truth. Please take care of OUR baby. I will trust in you Lord...Always!

Weekend with Eric=FUN!

2010-08-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

Eric came to spend the weekend with us while Will and Karla were in California.

Movie night with Uncle Clay!

We took the kids to the Science Center.

Lyla Grace and Eric have a love hate relationship. They are constantly competing for Mason's attention. Hope the rock star mentality doesn't go to Mason's head...right now he loves the attention.

Lyla Grace and Eric digging for dinosaur bones.

L-O-V-E some Nanna time!!!

2010-07-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

Nanna came to visit for a few days. First time since Tate was born. The kids loved getting to spend time playing with her and I loved having a helper :)

On the move

2010-07-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

Tate is officially on the move. He is crawling everywhere!

I looked over at him today and he had pulled up on the gate...is walking right around the corner??? I hope not. I'm starting to get a little nervous about what life is going to look like with 3 mobile kids.

Will he crawl or sit up??

2010-06-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

Not sure which he will do first...crawl or sit up?? Tate is so determined to keep up with Mason and Lyla Grace!! Bittersweet to think he will be mobile very soon!!!

Rein family time!

2010-06-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

We traveled to Ozark to spend 4th of July weekend with Clay's family

Celebrated Eric's 4th birthday!

Attempt to get a picture with all the grandkids :)

Bathtime at Grandmama's house is so much more fun...bubbles in a jaquzzi = hours of entertainment and wrinkled skin!!!

Vacations are hard work!!! We must nap :)

Schools out for summer!!!

2010-06-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

NSB...can't think of a better way to celebrate the beginning of summer!!

Tate not so much!

We spent the week with great friends!!

Carter and Mason were unseperable and loved every minute of it :)

Lyla Grace insisted on being burried and even waited for the camera to stop fogging up!!

Family dinners (loved the "kid table" on the porch)!!!

Much needed quality time with daddy :)

Carter and Mason did this atleast 3 hours each day...and both crashed at bedtime!!

We are already counting down the days until next year!!

LUVIN on Tate

2010-05-18T17:35:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed that God gave me these sweet children! I can't believe that He trusted me to be their mom. I love the way they love Tate and take pride in being big sis and brother.

Lyla Grace turns 3

2010-04-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday sweet Lyla Grace!!!

The Auburn spring A day game is on her birthday weekend every year.

A girl always has to have more than 1 birthday celebration!!

In shock and amazed by all of the people singing happy birthday. It may not look like it but she LOVED the attention.

Easter in Tampa

2010-04-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

We went to Tampa for Easter weekend to spend time with Gigi...Grandmama and Granddaddy were in town too.

"HIYAH"

2010-03-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

Mason has been going to karate for about a year. Today he broke his first board and got his yellow belt. Loved seeing is face after the board broke...priceless!

The James Gang comes to Orlando!!

2010-03-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

My brother's family came to spend Spring Break with us and yes all 11 of us stayed in our tiny house. It was a wonderful week!!!!

Are they all looking at the camera???It's a miracle! Our first group picture with all the cousins...this is for you Nanna!!

Heather getting her baby fix!!

Mason 1st Tball game

2010-03-13T11:15:00.000-08:00

Mason played his first Tball game today. His cousins from Nashville were all here to cheer him on which made it even more special. I know I'm a little bias but he is really good!!!

Daddy Daughter Dance

2010-03-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

Clay took Lyla Grace to the Daddy Daughter Dance at Northland Church tonight. We spent the afternoon painting fingernails and getting all prettied up for daddy. She was so excited to spend some special time with daddy all by herself!!!

Celebrating Gigi!!

2010-02-28T10:54:00.000-08:00

We went to Tampa today to celebrate our sweet Gigi or Boodie (depending on the generation). She was so surprised to see all of the friends and family that came to celebrate her 80th birthday. What a wonderful supportive woman she is and we feel so blessed that our children get to know her!!

Paw Paw visits

2010-02-27T11:07:00.000-08:00

We love it when Paw Paw comes to town!!! He plays with us and reads to us. He even fed Tate a bottle!! He also got to see Mason play Tball while he was in town.

Do we have 2 mommies living here?

2010-02-21T17:03:00.000-08:00

Yes that is Lyla Grace nursing her new baby "Tate".

Lyla Grace has turned into quite the little mommy. She plays babies all day long...and I must say I'm pretty impressed. She loves to help me with Tate and when she isn't helping me she is feeding one of her own.

10 happy crazy busy years and I still love him!!!!

2010-01-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

Clay and I have been married 10 years today!! I know everybody always tells you that life goes by quickly but it is soooooo true!!! I am so grateful to say that even though we have had our "ups and downs" I am so happy to be sharing my life with my sweet and loving husband!!! I L-O-V-E you Clay Rein!!!!!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T07:27:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share some pics from Christmas morning. We went to Tampa to spend time with Clay's family.

What a blessing!!

2009-12-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

Tate has been such a blessing to our family!!! I'm not gonna lie the first few weeks were rough!! Trying to care for 3 kiddos is alot harder than I expected. I also didn't expect for Clay and I to do it alone without the help of family...but looking back now (i'm writing this 18 months later) I realize Clay and I grew some much closer. When Tate was 3 weeks old we all got really sick (except for Clay). Tate had his first ear infection, Mason and Lyla had ear infections and really bad respiratory issues and I was extremely sick trying to care for everybody. To top it all off Clay had planned a hunting trip with the guys in our family and he left town for 4 days...he did send his mom down to the sick ward for backup which was the only way we (Clay especially) all survived.

The big 5

2009-12-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mason!! We celebrated with a "Playball" party at Princeton Park. The kids played all kinds of games with a sports theme. Mason had a blast!!

Tate Clayton Rein

2009-11-24T07:19:00.000-08:00

Welcome Tate Clayton Rein!!! Born Tuesday, November 24, 2009. He weighed 7lbs. 13oz. Happy and healthy!!! We were able to bring him home after 24 hours which was a wonderful blessing since Mason and Lyla Grace both stayed in the NICU for a week.

No more training wheels!!

2009-11-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

Mason is riding his bike with no training wheels!!! A little bribery goes a long way...Clay told him if he learned to ride his Auburn bike without training wheels then he could pick out a new "big boy" bike. It took him about 5 minutes and he was riding on his own!! We are so proud of him! Mason was also happy to pass down his Auburn bike to his cousin Eric...of course after Clay took him to get his new bike!

Tate's Baby Shower

2009-11-01T06:52:00.000-08:00

So special to share the evening with my mom :)

My sweet friends (J. Stead, J. Maynard & S. Wright) hosted a baby shower for me to celebrate baby Tate. It was a great night catching up with friends and sharing the excitement of God's new blessing to our family!

Halloween

2009-10-31T06:39:00.000-07:00

Halloween night we went to the Armstrong's for a party and trick-or-treating. It was so fun to watch the kids enjoy the night together :) Since Lyla Grace was sick last year she didn't really get to enjoy Halloween so this was her 1st year experiencing going up to the door...she was SOOOO excited to get candy and loved eating it before she put it in the bag :) It was even more special because Nanna was here to share it with us!! (Daddy was at the Auburn vs. Ole Miss game)

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

Lyla Grace and I spent the day at the Pumpkin Patch while Clay took Mason to the Auburn vs. Kentucky game. The weather was perfect (sunny and 70) especially for a big pregnant girl :) We had a great time with friends and picking out pumpkins!

Is that Ben Tate???

2009-09-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

Mason is in L-O-V-E with Auburn football!!! He wears his jersey to bed every night. He loves watching the game on Saturdays and wants to watch the taped game all throughout the week. Clay is thrilled to have a "buddy" who loves Auburn football as much as he does!!!

Sweet Little Momma

2009-09-11T06:10:00.000-07:00

Lyla Grace is obsessed with her babies. She has 9 babies and has named each one of them. She reads to them, feeds them and each one has an assigned sippy cup! I am a little nervous about how she is going to treat Tate when he arrives. It is going to be hard for her to understand that he isn't her baby. So much excitement...

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend in AL with Clay's family. Clay took Mason to the Auburn game with Eric and Will. Lyla Grace and I had a "girl's day" shopping and out to dinner. It was fun spending time with her by myself...she is so sweet!!!

1st day of school

2009-08-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Mason and Lyla Grace started their new school today. They were both so excited to play with friends and meet new ones!! We love their teachers and are excited about a fun year :)

Muddin in Nashville

2009-08-16T12:49:00.000-07:00

We spent the day at Edwin Warner park hiking, splashing in the creek and Lyla Grace loved the mud!!

skipping rocks

climbed the hill and down the slide

little muddy buddy!!

Bittersweet

2009-08-11T17:37:00.000-07:00

Just got back from Nashville today :( We all had the best time playing and loving on everyone!! Thanks so much Nanna and Grandpa Tim for such a wonderful visit!!!