Every new beginning comes from

some other beginning's end

Today was my last day working as a nurse at Childrens Mercy Hospital (most likely). I went in to my boss' office to resign last week and she talked me into taking a 3 month leave, in case I decide in the Fall that I'd like to work again. I have a strong feeling that's not gonna happen, but one should never say never.

This is me after my last day, holding the 2 best reasons I can think of to "call it quits."

And for fun, I thought I'd throw in the picture Nate took of me on my first day on the job, nearly 8 years ago!

My dear hubby dropped a card off with my name on it at work today. It was a thank you card. I really wasn't that emotional about leaving until I read his thoughtful words. As I read what he wrote, I couldn't help but be overwhelmed by God's providence in our lives. Children's Mercy Hospital is an incredible place to become a nurse. It's where I learned from the best, made some amazing friends of co-workers and invested countless hours with patients and their families that I would never trade. Because of CMH I was able to support our small family of 2 financially through Nate's med school. Because of that place I spent my first Christmas morning away from my NC family and away from Nate (our first married Christmas). While this sounds like a bad thing, it was a Christmas morning I will never forget. I spent the morning delivering good news of count recovery to a family that I still hold dear. I helped wrap their gifts, ate ham with them and played Christmas afternoon games with them. It wasn't home, but it was wonderful. Because of CMH I was honored to speak at the funeral of a precious 6 year-old girl who had become like family to me. The relationships and opportunities afforded to me from that place will never be forgotten. I was blessed beyond measure to work there and I am blessed beyond measure to now get to be at home with my amazing children and husband.

While it's always a little sad for something to end, as a mom and a nurse I still have so much to look forward to. Nate and I are taking our kiddos, along with Granny and Grandaddy, to Ghana this summer to work in a mission hospital, with the intent of discerning whether this is the next place God has for us to work and live. We covet your prayers as we try to decide what is best for our family. All I can think of as my last day of "work" comes to an end is a quote I found forever ago. It always seems to fit with every beginning and end that we encounter throughout our lives.

"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."

Granny K and Grandaddy, babysitters extraordinnaire

I'm sorry to say, this is the only photo I got of either Granny or Grandaddy before I went on my trip to Vancouver. They graciously volunteered to come to KC and stay with our kiddos, so I could leave the country worry-free. Here's a picture of Sutton and Granny at lunch on the day they arrived. It didn't take long for Granny and Grandaddy to figure things out and take over the care of our 2 kiddos. Thank you Granny and Grandad! Now, when can we book you again?! :) Oh, wait, we already have. Those guys are going with us to Africa in a month! Can't hardly wait.

Granny got some more shots of their time together, so I'll try and post them once she gets them to me. I know Aunt Crystal will be dying to see them! :)

Chores

Our daughter is growing up right before our very eyes. One minute she's being bathed in the sink as a baby, the next she's helping with the dishes. Natalie is happy to pick up toys, or help me make beds, but her favorite "chores" by far are the ones that involve dishes. She likes to help put them away, to fill and start the dishwasher and her favorite, washing them in the sink. This particular tupperware was cleaned extremely well, taking about 20 minutes to complete.

And as always, she usually sings a little tune while doing her work. :) I didn't video the song, but just look at that little mouth and imagine the music. Adorable AND does the dishes (She gets those from her Dad). I am in love.

Everyday Cuteness

He is one handsome dude.

Our Teacher, Mrs. Jana

Since Natalie was born, Mrs. Jana, our Parent Educator from Parents as Teachers, has been coming to our house. She shows Mommy how amazing Natalie and Sutton are (not like she needed to be convinced). She gives Mom tips on how to help their little brains grow and develop. Even though the program probably won't be around next year, we have loved having her in our home and are happy for the fun times we shared with her.

Natalie impressing Mommy again and again.

Practicing for the Preakness

What was cute with one child, is just twice as cute with two. I don't know how people with twins can even stand themselves!

We DO love Henry the HyVee horse.

Women of Joy Girls' Weekend

I am so spoiled. I got to go to Branson with my girlfriends for 2 nights and 3 days. It was wonderful. We went to a womens conference that was really great, but the best part was just being carefree with the girls all weekend. They make me laugh SO much.

Eating girly food to kick off the weekend.

Trying to get my picture with Candace Cameron Bure. She was a great speaker and apparently DJ Tanner has turned out to be a pretty great Christian as well.

Two of my favorite Chappell kids. These two were the cause of much of my laughter.

Just trying things on.

Introducing ALL of these girls to Hot Doughnuts Now at Krispy Kreme. Of course, I am always happy to oblige.

More of the Singing

In this edition of Natalie Sings, she will be singing God is so good.

If I could video every single song she sings, I would. And I would post them all on the blog for you to see. Pretty sure I will never tire of her sweet little singing voice.

we can only hope

Natalie sings ALL the time. It's wonderful really.