tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9798208899446861112012-01-17T03:14:53.834-08:00"See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared." Exodus 23:20The Smithsnoreply@blogger.comBlogger2111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-23972652370484356182011-12-28T08:14:00.000-08:002011-12-28T15:46:05.985-08:00

Auntie Kelly sent the coolest "Marble Game", as Nolan calls it, and we have been playing with it non-stop.  That is, after the kids played with the packing peanuts that were in the box for over 2 hours.  Here are some pictures of the packing peanut fun, followed by some videos of the marble madness.

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-74494389287617199792011-12-21T12:49:00.000-08:002011-12-21T12:49:53.161-08:00

Over the past few months I (Ryan) have alternated taking each of the kids to Lowe's for a Build and Grow clinic.  The mornings kind of go like this:  Lowe's for the clinic, some type of errand running and then lunch out with Dad.  A few weeks ago I posted about a project that Nolan andI built together (here). Well, Lauren and I have been having our outings, too.  She built this caboose, Nolan

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-91915693998802715352011-11-16T12:55:00.000-08:002011-11-16T12:55:50.526-08:00

Lauren decided to write her Christmas list to Santa all on her own this year.  To be honest, she is on the fence as to whether or not Santa is real or not.  She says the kids at school tell her he isn't real, but she still wants to believe that he is.  When she asks me, I tell her that I think he is.  Here is her list (click to enlarge): She was also kind enough to let Nolan dictate his wish

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-16293619637245277972011-10-25T19:02:00.000-07:002011-10-25T19:02:23.908-07:00

Lowe's has a great program called "Build and Grow" where kids can build a small craft with a parent.  Papa had taught us about this when Lauren was little, but somewhere along the way I forgot about it.  I ran across a clinic at our local Lowe's while I was visiting to buy paint supplies for our new house and I thought it would make for a fun Father/Son outing.  Here are some pictures of our time

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-45253640522997673512011-10-20T06:26:00.000-07:002011-10-20T06:26:21.132-07:00

Not until just recently has Nolan even showed any interest in singning songs, but he does sing Jesus Loves Me at bed time.  Then, all of a sudden, he started singing this song he made up and he sings it all the time.  Kimberly says that for her it is probably the cutest thing he does right now.

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-47964380713373812822011-08-29T11:35:00.000-07:002011-08-29T11:35:44.202-07:00

I know I am way behind on updating this blog and I apologize for that.  It's hard to believe that we've now been living in NY for over 6 months!  We have been thoroughly enjoying our summer - using the weekends to explore new areas, taking hikes, having picnic lunches & climbing trees.  So nice to be able to be outdoors without the sweltering heat & humidity, like we had in the South. :) This

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-13406846875900813092011-04-27T15:14:00.000-07:002011-04-27T15:14:39.132-07:00

For the first time since we moved here, the temperature reached: 80 degrees!!! Didn't think it was possible...

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-79692376431691706192011-03-30T11:38:00.000-07:002011-03-30T11:38:53.447-07:00

3 party-blowers in her mouth at once! Making a car out of a box Boots, hard-hat, flashlight & keys Crazy eyes Watching tv in his little "bed" Father-daughter date night @ church His favorite way to run around!

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-32378753811204909752011-02-27T18:34:00.000-08:002011-02-27T18:38:33.486-08:00

I can't believe it has almost been a month since my last blog post!  Where has the time gone?  Let's see if I can try to recap what has been going on with us: We have started visiting a church nearby that we really like.  It is a pretty large congregation, but the worship and teaching is really great...and the kids enjoy it, so that is a good sign.  Ryan is feeling more settled now at work and

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-41937615162978974372011-02-03T05:39:00.000-08:002011-02-03T05:48:21.373-08:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to post this! But, most of you know (through Facebook and email) that we are all settled in our new place now. And I have to say, I am thankful for the time we spent in our first dump of a place...because we are all the more GRATEFUL for where we are now! :)We have two bathrooms. I have counter space. There is a laundry room. We have a basement. I have a walk-in

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-2880534780553833872011-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:002011-01-27T08:07:20.389-08:00

Why should I feel discouraged,Why should the shadows come,Why should my heart feel lonely,And long for heaven and home...When Jesus is my portion?A constant friend is He!His eye is on the sparrow;And I know He watches me."Let not your heart be troubled",His tender word I hear,And resting on His goodness,I lose my doubts and fears;Though by the path He leadeth,But one step I may see.His eye is on

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-60188263297910880332011-01-25T05:15:00.000-08:002011-01-25T05:41:19.632-08:00

Psalm 94: 18-19:"When I said, 'My foot is slipping', Your unfailing love, Lord, supported me.When anxiety was great within me,Your consolation brought me joy."I will never forget that moment...when Ryan came to me and said he had decided to take the job in New York. I felt like my world was spinning out of control. I could feel my emotions taking a dive into a downward spiral I was afraid I

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-59405126396694364682011-01-17T12:42:00.000-08:002011-01-24T04:42:04.678-08:00

I had to title this blog entry using the name of the song from the Jeffersons (does anyone remember that show?). Because I joke that where we live now is completely ghetto (which is slightly true, considering it was built in the 60's and hasn't been updated since...and because there are cigarette burn marks on the carpets and the kids found an old cigarette butt in their closet - gross!).Anyway,

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-13299966405722331992011-01-13T11:21:00.000-08:002011-01-13T11:29:10.601-08:00

This is what we go through each time we want to go somewhere:- Put my hat, coat, scarf, gloves and boots on- Put Nolan's hat, coat, gloves and boots on- Walk out to the parking lot, try to keep Nolan from stepping in the high snow piles, where he would disappear completely- Unlock car, pray the doors haven't frozen shut, get Nolan in his carseat- Brush snow/scrape ice of tops, sides and windows

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-53938801619568690872011-01-03T06:41:00.001-08:002011-01-03T07:03:10.696-08:00

I'm not sure what it is, but over the last few weeks, it seems that our daughter has become a teenager! While we were on our road trip, we had just finished eating dinner at a restaurant and she said she had to go to the bathroom before we left. So, off she ran to the restroom and then she came back quickly. I knew there was no way she could have gone to the bathroom that fast, so I asked her

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-24759286261800458812010-12-31T04:59:00.000-08:002010-12-31T05:14:05.893-08:00

We finally made it to Rochester!! We left at 9am Wednesday morning from Charlotte and arrived here Thursday evening at 5pm. The kids did so great in the car and we made some fun memories along the way. PLUS getting to drive through the snow-covered mountains of West Virginia was absolutely beautiful! The Lord provided us with good weather and safety the whole way. We saw so many accidents,

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-81200862030292187102010-12-21T06:27:00.001-08:002010-12-21T06:51:11.041-08:00

Only 1 week from now, we will wave goodbye to our NC home and embark on the 12-hour drive to Rochester, NY. It is happening so fast and there is still alot to be done. There is an almost fully packed bag or box in every room of our house right now and I keep adding to each one as I remember more things we will need up there! We were able to sell Nolan's crib, changing table and dresser on Craig's

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-35596084443659999982010-12-02T04:44:00.000-08:002010-12-02T04:53:52.914-08:00

Most of you already know that yesterday Ryan officially accepted the offer from SentrySafe in Rochester, NY. He is very excited as it seems like a great family-oriented company and will be step up for his career. They are equally excited to have him join the team and can't wait for him to get started.From here, things now go into hyper-drive! We are flying up this Sunday-Wednesday to visit and

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-83283331334881543782010-11-19T13:35:00.000-08:002010-11-19T13:46:26.146-08:00

We are currently in New York as I write this! The company Ryan received an offer from in Rochester flew us up for the weekend to check out the area as a family. The kids did fabulous on both plane rides and everyone is napping now, except for me because I am sick and cannot sleep! After this weekend's little adventure, we will drive to the airport in Rochester and Ryan will board a flight

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-52916202059851210042010-11-12T04:50:00.000-08:002010-11-12T04:58:22.630-08:00

My hands hold safely to my dreams,Clutching tightly, not one has fallen.So many years I've shaped each one,Reflecting my heart, showing who I am.Now You're asking me to show,What I'm holding oh so tightly.Can't open my hands, can't let go.Does it matter, should I show You?Can't You let me go?Surrender, surrender,You whisper gently.You say I will be free,I know, but can't You see?My dreams are

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-68188549945266102802010-11-03T07:38:00.000-07:002010-11-03T08:30:55.951-07:00

Lauren told us that her class was doing the lesson for chapel this week at school. So, Nolan and I went to watch her...little did I know what was in store for me! First, they did a "play" about Noah's ark and acted it all out (Lauren was the dove). Then, the teacher talked about God's faithfulness - she said God was asking Noah to do something that didn't make sense to him or his family or

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-42716953341971626472010-10-25T11:52:00.000-07:002010-10-25T12:00:27.634-07:00

This week I decided to do something less seasonal and more fun! We just made a big trip to Costco so we had a lot of empty cardboard food boxes. While it didn't end up being that structurally sound (I'm no architect)...we had fun making it and he loves using his new double-decker parking garage for his matchbox cars. You can make anything work with some duct tape! :)

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-49717503322044018602010-10-14T12:22:00.000-07:002010-10-14T12:36:42.557-07:00

Tomorrow will be 2 weeks since Ryan lost his job. He has been hitting it hard, networking and getting his resume out there. And the response has been very encouraging. The last time he was laid off, it took 2 months to find something. This time, we aren't even at the 1 month mark and he has already had interviews! The companies he has interviewed with and are interested in him are located in

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-89969809178472536362010-10-06T07:38:00.000-07:002010-10-06T07:55:27.343-07:00

Nolan decided he needed to do some yard work this morning..."Bye mom, I'm off to work!"Mowing the front yardThumb up for a job well done!

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-69763209651136564862010-10-01T08:30:00.000-07:002010-10-01T08:51:49.609-07:00

Ryan lost his job with Remington today. We had a hint that it may happen soon - the company didn't have the best year and had laid off in other offices. So, it wasn't a huge shock, but still a big disappointment because he really LOVED his job. There were several others who were let go along with him - the company has some new management and they were wanting to reorganize.As scary as it is to be

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-43940499892596350852010-09-28T06:58:00.000-07:002010-09-28T07:05:52.654-07:00

This was the "craft of the week" that Nolan and I made today! He loved using the glue stick, but now everything is sticky!! So, I have to go wipe the whole table down - but it turned out pretty cute...we decided to name him "Sam", the Scarecrow. :)

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-58258237074991674192010-09-25T15:50:00.000-07:002010-09-25T15:52:40.747-07:00

Ryan took the kids out to the garage where we keep track of their height on the wall. He measured both of them and it seems they have each gone through major growth spurts. In the last 5 months, Nolan has grown 2 inches and Lauren has grown 1 inch!! I mean, we already have tall kids, so this puts them into "giant" territory! It's a good thing I buy all their clothes a little big and put

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-48543770550198427392010-09-24T08:37:00.000-07:002010-09-24T08:49:17.530-07:00

Anyone else tired of me talking about my aging body? Well, because I didn't already have enough going on...somehow I did something to my right knee. And by something, I mean extreme pain, HUGE swelling and inability to walk. I went into the doctor this morning and they did x-rays to make sure there were no broken bones (there wasn't). They put me on steroids for the swelling and I have an

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-58762020224858532352010-09-16T11:24:00.000-07:002010-09-16T11:37:04.486-07:00

Nolan has really been enjoying his Sunday school class - now that he has moved up with the 2-3 years olds, he gets to have a real Bible lesson and do a craft and have snacks. This last week he was so proud to show us his craft and has really gotten into it. So, today I thought it would be fun to do something like that at home. It is finally cooling down a little bit in the evenings here, so if

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-90821884249980984512010-09-13T10:56:00.001-07:002010-09-13T11:15:40.864-07:00

I am getting tired of posting about medical stuff, so I am writing this time about the kids!! First of all, since Lauren started school, I have been working with Nolan each day on talking more (he's had a slow start in this area). We use flashcards that I made and he has been doing great. He now knows all his colors and shapes and we are still working on letters. Lately, it seems he says a new

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-10947815212582752172010-08-31T07:27:00.000-07:002010-09-03T05:42:08.180-07:00

I heard back from the doctor today and they finally got all my blood-work results in! The good news is that everything looked okay - my white blood cell count was a little high, but nothing that indicated something more serious. The Epstein-Barr lab was positive and the levels were abnormally high (this is the virus that causes mono). So, they are trying to get me in quickly to see a specialist

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-50108742094490226702010-08-27T14:20:00.000-07:002010-08-27T14:33:02.146-07:00

In addition to everything I mentioned in my previous post, I have been feeling overwhelmingly tired this week. I assumed it was just an adjustment to the "back-to-school" activities...but when I started to develop other symptoms, I decided I needed to go see the doctor. So, Nolan and I went this morning and they took some blood and sent it off to the lab.I got a call a few minutes ago from the

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-8053929253735015752010-08-25T06:56:00.000-07:002010-08-25T07:40:57.968-07:00

I have been seeing a physical therapist since we came back from Oregon - to address the bulging disc in my back. Through the process of doing different exercises and having him evaluate me, we have discovered that it wasn't just my bulging L5 S1 disc that was causing me pain. Yesterday, after a series of tests, he determined that I also have an abnormality in my left sacroiliac joint AND my left

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-8333801779752442642010-08-23T06:45:00.000-07:002010-08-23T07:02:30.158-07:00

Well, today was Lauren's first day of 1st grade! She was very excited to head back to school, although Nolan was very upset. After she got out of the car, he was crying, "Me, me, me!" He wanted to go with her. :( Then, all the way home he was saying, "More Lauren!" It was cute and sad at the same time. He will miss having her around, but I'm excited for the one-on-one time he and I will have

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-23003129731624406072010-08-12T09:02:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:06:19.633-07:00

Learning to trust God with our finances has been an ongoing lesson for the Smith family. Has anyone else ever felt this way? Just when we feel like we are getting ahead, a million things happen all at once! Lately we feel as if we are cursed…every day brings another unexpected expense. It is getting to the point where it is laughable – let me share with you the drama…these are the things we

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-25945310517469969442010-08-09T08:48:00.000-07:002010-08-09T09:09:23.292-07:00

I just read about this in a magazine and LOVED the idea of it! I started with a simple post-it note on Lauren's dresser mirror in her room, but you could do it anywhere!! :) The story behind it:Caitlin Boyle, founder of Operation Beautiful, decided to put a post-it note up in a public bathroom for anyone to see who came across it. It simply read: "You are beautiful". She took a picture of the

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-67032082349620291972010-08-05T12:06:00.000-07:002010-08-05T12:22:51.475-07:00

Well, we made it back safely from Oregon after an amazing 5 weeks of vacation! I was nervous about flying by myself with the two kids (I was outnumbered!), but the Lord blessed me beyond words! The kids were complete angels!! I had total strangers telling me how amazed they were at my kids' behavior. And I couldn't have been prouder - we colored, read books, had snacks and watched 1 movie on the

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-72557538990220151952010-07-14T08:43:00.000-07:002010-07-14T22:06:52.251-07:00

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-40546776846533116662010-06-28T11:57:00.000-07:002010-06-30T14:51:42.194-07:00

Our vow renewal ceremony last Saturday was so perfect! Everyone helped out to make it such a special day for us and it was exactly what we wanted...not the "Ryan & Kimberly Show", but a testimony of what God has done in our lives and our marriage. Only immediate family and very close friends were there and it was the most beautiful day!! The perfect way to celebrate and commemorate our 10th

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-37901564557342460472010-06-19T07:34:00.001-07:002010-06-19T07:41:59.909-07:00

Well, only a few more days until we leave for our big vacation in Oregon! We are extra-excited because next Saturday, June 26th, Ryan & I will be gathering together in front of our close friends and families to renew our vows for our 10th wedding anniversary. It originally was supposed to be a surprise for Ryan, but the beans were spilled, so I had to tell him. :) My oldest nephew will be

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-57609213679506819792010-06-15T17:31:00.000-07:002010-06-15T17:54:29.118-07:00

Lauren experienced the loss of a great friend and pet this evening.Tampton came to live with us three weeks ago and lived in Lauren's room around the clock. Some of the time she left him in the closet, fearing that he would "bake" in the sunlight. Most of the time he lived on her shelf. I can honestly say that she didn't pay much attention to him while he was with us and you could hardly tell

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-56809929541939612332010-05-31T11:32:00.000-07:002010-05-31T12:00:48.041-07:00

Lauren is a voracious reader, and now she is exercising her ability to write. Every so often we will find messages on the white-board easel in the play room that just crack us up. We don't know where she gets the ideas from, but these are the types of things we find (click image to enlarge):"My meal of the day (can I have a drum roll, please?) is: papaya tea and mash potatoes and peach pie...

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-48013046819741849142010-05-21T06:42:00.001-07:002010-05-21T07:14:44.943-07:00

I know I haven't posted in a while - things have been busy getting ready for the end of the school year...and we only have 5 weeks left until we leave for Oregon!! The four of us will be leaving on June 23rd - Ryan will stay through the 4th of July and then come back home. But, the kids and I will stay for a month with my parents. Needless to say, they are very excited - Lauren gets to do VBS at

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-84503745078638021272010-05-10T16:04:00.000-07:002010-05-10T16:13:03.387-07:00

The MRI they did on my brain came back normal, which we knew it would be. I have now completed my 48 hours of medication and bedrest and am feeling much better today! I still have moments of dizziness and am having to re-train myself to do things differently because of my Meniere's disease. It is a learning process that will take time, but I also have some exercises to do that really help and

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-6166370737665645342010-05-06T15:46:00.000-07:002010-05-06T16:03:34.462-07:00

It all started Tuesday morning...I began to feel really dizzy. I am not talking about the "I stood up too fast" kind of dizzy - I am talking about the "I have to hold on to the wall to walk" kind of dizzy. Now, I have had my fair share of dizzy spells in the past and they always go away. Well, after 24 hours of constant dizziness, there was no change. I couldn't figure out why I was feeling

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-62207291991464339822010-04-21T17:36:00.001-07:002010-04-21T18:06:25.967-07:00

This morning (after dropping Lauren off at school), I put on the "Cars" movie for Nolan upstairs in our bonus room and ran downstairs to make some breakfast for myself. As I was cooking the egg whites on the stove, I glanced over to see Casey (our cat) sniffing at something behind the drapes in the dining room. I went over to see what she was doing (half afraid that she had thrown up on the

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-49785209967467055972010-04-18T09:22:00.000-07:002010-04-18T09:30:15.759-07:00

In an effort to save money at the hairdressers AND to look more "natural" as I grow older, I finally took the plunge and died my hair back to its true color. I had begun this process in January and was slowly but surely getting there...but this time I decided to just go for it all the way - this brown is a little more golden than my real color, but pretty much the same shade. Blondes may have

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-82389119081087858462010-04-05T09:50:00.000-07:002010-04-05T10:08:54.899-07:00

We are blessed to have Ryan's mom and 98-year-old grandmother with us for the week of Lauren's spring break! The kids are thrilled to have them here and we have had so much fun spending time together. The weather has been beautiful for their entire visit - in the low to mid 80's and not a cloud in sight! We've had the chance to go to a botanical garden, go for walks through the neighborhood and

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-65506916355501350512010-03-27T15:19:00.000-07:002010-03-27T15:31:15.708-07:00

Today I ran a little errand over to the LifeWay Christian Bookstore. I was on a mission to find a journal for Lauren and I to share. The idea is to have a special journal for just the two of us - a place where I can write her encouragement notes, thoughts, dreams I have for her or verses I come across that I want her to read. And for her to be able to share her heart with me...to write out

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-16849090055337524962010-03-12T16:22:00.001-08:002010-03-12T16:30:41.691-08:00

Thank you so much for your prayers as Nolan underwent his test. I wouldn't say it went "well" because he screamed the whole time - the nurse and I together struggled to hold him down (he's a strong boy!) But, we survived and they were able to get all the pictures they needed.We had our follow-up appointment (and his 2-year checkup) with our pediatrician on Wednesday - she had good news and bad

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-64778812686756029052010-03-06T16:01:00.000-08:002010-03-07T04:23:36.129-08:00

Hard to believe, isn't it?!? Today we celebrated Nolan's 2nd birthday! I spent most of the day baking, carving and frosting his monster truck cake - I felt like I was on one of those reality cake shows. By the end of the day, I had black and green frosting dried under my finger nails and my skin itself was stained! It didn't turn out perfect, but for doing it on my own without a special cake pan,

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-30961815921320793352010-03-03T15:14:00.000-08:002010-03-03T15:21:03.064-08:00

As most of you know who have been following our blog, Nolan has suffered from some pretty severe acid reflux since birth. He has been on all different kinds of medication for it, but had been doing well on one daily dose of Prilosec...until recently. His sleep patterns have changed, he's not eating as well and points to his chest and says "Owee". A week ago, we increased his dose to twice a

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-68283713757309582232010-03-01T05:15:00.000-08:002010-03-01T05:20:54.474-08:00

I have been feeling lately like there is always something out there, just beyond my grasp, that I cannot have but that I believe will make me more happy and fulfilled if I could somehow get my hands on it. But I couldn’t, and it left me feeling anxious, empty and depleted. I reach, but I cannot grasp, not just for material things, but for expectations of how my life could or should be.Through

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-8605631816651325032010-02-28T14:52:00.000-08:002010-02-28T14:58:45.660-08:00

As I was journaling this afternoon, the Lord brought to my mind an old song that I haven't heard in ages, but it so perfectly fits with where I am at right now. For you old school Amy Grant fans, you may recognize this...When the weight of all my dreams,Is resting heavy on my head,And the thoughtful words of help and hope,Have all been nicely said.But, I'm still hurting,Wondering if I'll ever be

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-51138336675181501582010-02-28T14:14:00.000-08:002010-02-28T14:22:11.224-08:00

God is more powerful, mysterious, and wonderful than we can ever imagine. He cannot be contained by our thoughts or definitions and is, in a sense, wild and untamable and bigger than we are in every way. And yet He is also a God who goes to great lengths to reveal Himself to us, to remind us that He is present in all the minutes of our lives. If we have eyes to see and ears to hear, the evidence

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-29746724706187272872010-02-27T16:26:00.000-08:002010-02-28T04:50:46.664-08:00

I can't explain how the whole "goodness-of-God, suffering-of-man" thing works, but I know that God cannot - does not - wrong His children. He can't. Inconceivably holy, God cannot sin. He is unapproachable Light and He has no dark side. My God is huge. My God is wise, and my God will redeem. If He has allowed me to be put in these difficult circumstances, then He entrusted that suffering to me

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-35545813539381340422010-02-27T15:39:00.000-08:002010-02-27T15:52:04.686-08:00

My mom bought me a devotional book a while back called "Jesus Calling" - it is great because it is a short paragraph or two with some verses that is easy for me to do in the morning...and I love it because it is written as if Jesus is talking to you. The other day, when I called my mom in tears, she reminded me to read the devotional for that day (how did she know that I hadn't yet?!?). I have

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-57306905531224427902010-02-27T14:26:00.000-08:002010-02-27T14:46:58.857-08:00

Ryan got back from his trip to Maine late last night and informed me this morning that I needed to pack a bag. "For what?", I asked. He said that he had made reservations for me at a hotel in Lexington (overlooking the vineyards), about 30 minutes away, for the weekend. He told me he would handle everything with the kids and any showings and church, etc...but that I needed a weekend of

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-44214003054765440552010-02-23T05:25:00.000-08:002010-02-23T05:35:44.276-08:00

I love it when the Lord gives me something that is exactly what I need to hear. I opened up my devotional book this morning and read the lesson for yesterday, February 22, because I was a day behind. And it was the perfect reminder to me - this is from My Utmost for His Highest..."Perseverance is more than endurance. It is endurance combined with absolute assurance and certainty that what we are

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-73604705323536459152010-02-21T11:08:00.000-08:002010-02-21T11:28:19.667-08:00

What a crazy few days it has been around the Smith household! It all started Thursday afternoon when I picked up Lauren from school. She said she had been coughing alot in class and felt like her eyes were burning. Sure enough, when I took her temperature at home, she was running a low fever. So, I gave her some tylenol and set her up on the couch.Even though she said she felt better in the

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-49329070162017626382010-02-13T18:16:00.000-08:002010-02-14T14:14:31.272-08:00

Normally, Ryan and I don't exchange gifts with each other on Valentine's Day...or if we do, it is just cards or something very small. However, this year, he informed me that he DID want to do gifts. Thankfully, he gave me some advance notice, so I had time to figure out what I was going to get him. He hinted that my gift was going to be some kind of a "break" or "relaxation package". I assumed

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-85572416794794583262010-02-13T09:52:00.000-08:002010-02-13T10:34:52.806-08:00

This has been the craziest winter for us in North Carolina! I posted the snow pictures from a few weeks ago and last night, it started snowing AGAIN!! We got as much snow as the last storm and this time we got to go out and enjoy it together as a family. Nolan didn't get to play outside last time, so this was his first experience in the snow. He absolutely loved it! We made a mini-snowman, did

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-66134919330262952892010-02-06T05:32:00.000-08:002010-02-06T05:58:58.975-08:00

I know I am late in getting these up, but it has been a crazy couple of weeks! We had one of the biggest snowfalls we've experienced since moving here - Lauren had the day off school, most places of business shut down and it was absolutely beautiful! Unfortunately, Nolan was still sniffly and runny-nosed, so he couldn't go out and enjoy it. But, Lauren did get to go play with a neighbor friend

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-38096208223321409782010-01-28T06:39:00.000-08:002010-01-28T06:49:35.970-08:00

Since I posted our last blog, MORE illness has struck our family. Ryan came down with the stomach flu Monday night and has been home sick all week. I also came down with another virus that same night, running a high fever and with a terrible sore throat. Thankfully, the kids have remained healthy thus far and we're praying they stay that way!In the midst of all the sickness we've been dealing

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-5802003177180610982010-01-25T15:43:00.000-08:002010-01-25T16:35:30.148-08:00

Well, I haven't posted anything in a while because Ryan was away on a business trip for a week in Las Vegas, so I didn't have the computer! It's always interesting how bad things tend to happen when he is gone. And it isn't just me...I remember as a kid, when my dad traveled alot, the times when he was away on business were the times when we would all get sick or the basement would flood or

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-14717606025110960392010-01-10T06:31:00.000-08:002010-01-10T06:40:27.595-08:00

Well, we made it! We ended up staying in Oregon until Wednesday of last week...as it turned out, Nolan did have roseola. Once the fever was gone (after 3 and a half days of it), the rash came and he started to feel better. So we booked our flight and headed home. I have to say, it was the easiest travel day we have ever had. The kids did great, there were no delays and the Lord was clearly "

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-28432291137561599082010-01-03T19:13:00.000-08:002010-01-03T20:04:07.390-08:00

Playing with PapaThe Smith Family clanGoofing around with PapaPlaying Monopoly with PapaThe cousins playing "Rock Band"Dishes & girl talk with GrandmaLauren's snowmanNolan & his cars (yes, he's in my mom's bathtub...he rolled all his cars in there and then climbed in)Playing with the amazing nativity scene puzzle my dad made for the kidsShowing off the cheerleading outfit she got for "

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-87399953489557646472010-01-02T16:21:00.000-08:002010-01-02T18:07:22.368-08:00

Well, we were supposed to have left this morning to fly back to North Carolina...but the Lord intervened on our behalf. Yesterday, I was shopping with my sister-in-law when I got an automated phone call from our airline saying that our flight was canceled "due to lack of flight crew available". I thought it was just a fluke and it would get rescheduled for later in the day...but when Ryan

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-32310997779444305642009-12-30T12:10:00.000-08:002009-12-30T12:58:15.435-08:00

We have been having the best time with our families in Oregon! We got about 3 inches of snow yesterday and they are forecasting more for today and tomorrow. We have been taking a TON of pictures, but here are just a few of my side of the family from our get-together before Christmas...The whole clanMy sister's familyMy brother's familyDon't ask me why I'm making a weird faceNolan and Zachary (

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-73100442020265058332009-12-12T07:05:00.000-08:002009-12-14T19:02:51.908-08:00

Well, this is probably going to be my last post for a while because we leave in less than a week to go to Oregon for our Christmas vacation! We are all so excited and can't wait to see our families! It has been a busy couple of weeks since we got back from St. Louis...Last weekend, we took the kids to a town called McAdenville (about a 35 minute drive from here), which is also called "

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-57473073153282673532009-11-29T15:36:00.000-08:002009-11-29T16:37:53.452-08:00

We had such a great time on our week-long vacation in St. Louis...it was very hard to leave! Ryan got to take Lauren on a date to the Arch and out to lunch one day, we got to go caroling and look at Christmas lights around town, I got to get a 2-hour massage (heavenly) and go shopping on Black Friday...and, most importantly, Ryan got to go shooting for a day and test out the rifle he has been

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-9396684837375135892009-11-15T05:13:00.000-08:002009-11-19T17:49:59.082-08:00

We won't be posting a blog for a while because we will be going to St. Louis for a week for Thanksgiving! My sister-in-law's parents must have decided we didn't do too much damage last year because they have graciously invited us back. :) We are very excited to get away and to not be by ourselves for the holiday...and I get to have my husband with me for a whole week! (Minus one day that he will

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-45155476157091463922009-11-09T16:07:00.000-08:002009-11-09T16:19:35.081-08:00

This week Lauren was sent home with her very first report card! We have our Parent/Teacher conference tomorrow night, so I knew we would get it before then. I was so anxious to see what her teacher had said so I peeked while we were sitting at a red light...I couldn't wait until we got home! It made me so proud as I scanned the paper to see all the E's & M's (they don't get "real" grades yet -

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-53060480987976074702009-11-04T16:25:00.001-08:002009-11-04T16:37:52.556-08:00

I heard back from the surgeon today who, after looking at the films from my CT-scan, confirmed that I do have a small abdominal hernia. Because it is a mild hernia and not causing me extreme amounts of pain, I asked him if we could postpone the surgery until after the holidays. (The last thing I want is to be recovering from surgery while we are on one of our trips - St. Louis for Thanksgiving

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-45439552322325472862009-11-02T06:06:00.000-08:002009-11-02T06:30:20.222-08:00

I have another "short" story to add to this whole oil spill situation. After a trip to Lowe's to pick up some degreaser, Ryan went back into Nolan's room to try and clean the oil that had sprayed onto the baseboards and the side of his crib. When he got down there and began cleaning, he looked and saw that the oil had sprayed halfway up the wall on the side of his room where his crib was. Which

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-47258271745826089342009-11-01T07:08:00.000-08:002009-11-01T07:36:31.218-08:00

Ryan went to get Nolan out of bed this morning and as soon as he opened the door to his room, was hit with an eye-watering smell. He said he knew instantly what it was. We have a free-standing plug-in oil space heater in his room because he gets cold at night. We usually keep it on a low setting and have had it since Lauren was a baby and used it in her room when she was little. Well, it decided

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-88048306805822236222009-10-29T15:09:00.000-07:002009-10-29T15:12:21.604-07:00

The CT scan was negative - praise the Lord! I now have an appointment with a surgeon for Monday afternoon. He should be able to confirm the abdominal hernia and schedule the surgery (hopefully for before the holiday!). My husband gets major points for taking Lauren on her class field trip today (he'll be posting pictures of that later) and for taking the day off tomorrow to help me out at home!

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-35616697749372226962009-10-27T15:43:00.000-07:002009-10-27T15:49:11.195-07:00

Thank you so much to everyone who has responded with prayers and encouragement after our last post. I wanted to post a quick update with where we are at:The CT scan did not get scheduled last week due to a pre-authorization needed from our insurance company. So, I will go in tomorrow evening at 7:30pm (EST) for the test. Thankfully, they were willing to do it in the evening to accomodate

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-18662792424776297132009-10-22T15:58:00.000-07:002009-10-22T16:14:26.867-07:00

Ryan and I always "joke" at the beginning of a new year that this will be the year with NO major medical issues. And I always fully believe it when I say that! Every year since Lauren was born, one or both of us has had significant illnesses. I had two surgeries, Ryan had shingles, I had mono (the 3rd time), Ryan had pneumonia and I had mono (the 4th time). Maybe we shouldn't joke about it

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-52092338742018115782009-10-04T12:23:00.000-07:002009-10-04T19:02:22.937-07:00

Today we went to a fundraiser at a nearby park (proceeds were for cancer research) where they brought in all kinds of trucks, dirt movers, fire and emergency vehicles, etc...and the kids could climb on them, honk the horns and pretend to drive them. It was a HUGE event and in addition to the trucks and race cars and bulldozers, there were pony rides, inflatable castles and even a helicopter! The

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-20182865157654622009-10-01T16:06:00.001-07:002009-10-01T16:15:09.318-07:00

Alot of people have asked me lately what is going on with the house, the move, etc...so I figured I had better post an update! I guess I haven't written about it because not much has happened. We have continued to have people come and look at the house (although it has slowed down considerably since school started) and we have had alot of positive feedback. But, either the buyers have their

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-812232358575068182009-09-25T05:03:00.000-07:002009-09-25T14:31:21.331-07:00

I (Ryan) recently took a Hunter's Education course at Remington in order to get my hunting license. This fall, providing I can fit it in, I intend to go hunting for the first time. I haven't really talked to the kids about it, but Lauren was keen to the fact that I wasn't home before she went to bed one night last week and had overheard that I was in a hunting class. Here is the conversation

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-5971265424044321212009-09-20T16:28:00.000-07:002009-09-20T16:55:13.970-07:00

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-5476628351667320432009-09-05T10:16:00.000-07:002009-09-05T10:29:18.931-07:00

Monday was a momentous day for Lauren as she had her first day of kindergarten. I know everyone says it, but honestly…when did my little girl get so grown-up?!? Being a completely new school for her and not knowing a single kid there, she still wasn’t nervous – just very excited and curious. She had met her teacher the Friday night before when we attended the orientation, so she felt good about

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-92076331926186756572009-08-16T13:50:00.000-07:002009-08-16T13:56:16.482-07:00

Tomorrow (Monday) my older sister, Kelly, will be going in for major back surgery. They are attempting to correct a bulging disc she has been dealing with in her back for a long time. She has seen several physical therapists, tried different exercises and been on countless pain medications and muscle relaxers. It has caused her chronic pain and severely altered her quality of life. And this

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-63699957537442527862009-08-11T16:09:00.000-07:002009-08-11T16:16:22.506-07:00

When this journey first began, my resolve was unshakably strong.But now I’m growing weary of this path You’ve placed me on.I feel my faith is fading and I’m questioning You more.The voices of fear inside my head are difficult to ignore.Each day is such a struggle, just to make it through.Seems like there’s no joy to be found, no matter what I do.Stuck in this survival mode with no relief in

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-55240304927229106932009-07-29T16:02:00.000-07:002009-07-29T16:58:47.447-07:00

Just wanted to update everyone on the situation with Nolan - thank you so much for your encouraging emails and notes...and words of wisdom! He is now sleeping through the night again and is falling asleep much better without the hour of screaming first. However, on Monday I noticed these raised red bumps all over his diaper area and around his mouth. He was also running a low-grade fever, so I

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-7021270085597153712009-07-25T07:51:00.000-07:002009-07-27T13:45:38.611-07:00

Well, this week brought a new set of challenges with Nolan. Wednesday night after Ryan put him to bed, he was having a hard time going to sleep. He was really crying hard and we were in the tv room, commenting on how odd that was. Then, all of a sudden, I heard his door knob turn and he came walking out of his room and down the hall. My heart stopped beating and Ryan and I both ran to get him

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-20155613366920390462009-07-14T17:20:00.000-07:002009-07-14T17:45:19.292-07:00

Lauren officially entered the big kid club last week when she lost her first tooth!! Her bottom two teeth in the front have been very wiggly for some time and the new tooth was already coming in behind one of them. The other day she was out on the screened-in porch with Nolan and she came running inside the house screaming, holding the tooth in her hand. We had a little celebration, which was

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-30098751906265437912009-07-04T16:02:00.000-07:002009-07-14T11:25:15.306-07:00

We have been promising Lauren since we moved here that we would take her to the zoo. Back in Oregon, we had a zoo membership and lived less than 20 minutes away from it, so we went ALL the time! But, we haven't been able to go here in North Carolina yet...mainly because it is a 2 hour drive to the nearest zoo. Well, we finally did it! Ryan had the day off on Friday for the 4th of July holiday, so

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-80075653167536447212009-06-30T17:15:00.000-07:002009-06-30T17:30:28.928-07:00

I am not sure why it is, but I seem to do some of my best soul-searching while running on the treadmill. Maybe it's because it is one of the only times during my day when I can escape everything else around me and just think and talk with God. Well, Monday morning, I had the chance to do this. It had been a wonderful weekend of great family time and some good "breaks" for me and there I was,

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-24401436781424031402009-06-14T06:52:00.000-07:002009-06-14T07:02:38.019-07:00

How long will my prayers seem unanswered?Is there still faith in me to reach the end?I'm feeling doubt; I'm losing faithBut giving up would cost me everything.So I'll stand in the pain and silence,And I'll speak to the dark night...I believe in the sun even when it's not shining.I believe in love even when I don't feel it;And I believe in God even when He is silent.Though I can't see my stories

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-91756143031209219892009-06-12T17:25:00.000-07:002009-06-12T17:35:27.136-07:00

I know it has been a while since I've posted anything. Time just got away from me. My mom was here for 2 weeks, which was wonderful (thanks to her for all her help)! And Ryan has started traveling for work, so I'm just treading water over here! We have had a good amount of showings on the house, but people seem to have one complaint or another (no granite and SS appliances, great room is too

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-57258970745212648472009-05-29T10:09:00.000-07:002009-05-29T10:14:15.416-07:00

Conventional wisdom wouldn't lead a rational person to try and sell a house in this real estate market. But we aren't rational people. Or at least, God doesn't always call His people to do rational things. He doesn't appear as awesome when he calls people to buy low, sell high. So, we have our house on the market and are hopeful we can move in time for the school year to start and Lauren can

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-87366102090844166002009-05-28T11:43:00.000-07:002009-05-28T11:52:50.883-07:00

I officially started my new job at Remington Arms Co. this week. My new job title is Brand Manager - Law Enforcement/Tactical Firearms. This encompasses shotguns, sniper rifles and assualt rifles intended for LE or tactical consumers.I call it a job, but Kimberly thinks it is laughable that I get paid to do this type of stuff. To some extent I feel the same way. For instance, my first

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-76848049138026912012009-05-19T12:49:00.000-07:002009-05-21T09:30:31.983-07:00

Today was Lauren's big day - and even all these hours later, I still can't believe it! She is getting so grown-up and today was a big exclamation point to that fact. The ceremony was very cute - they sang "God Bless America " and a couple other songs before they received their diplomas. Her teachers said how much they are going to miss her (they had nicknamed her "Lu-Lu") and how she is one of

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-89332523165500315482009-05-19T12:33:00.001-07:002009-05-19T12:40:37.285-07:00

We got a call this morning from the Relocation Coordinator and it was good news! The numbers came in and we can pick the realtor that we liked - Praise the Lord!! We called him right away to let him know and he is bringing the paperwork over tomorrow afternoon for us to sign. The only other thing we have to do before we list the house is get the carpets cleaned and we will be ready to go!We do

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-65479564638416772992009-05-17T15:23:00.000-07:002009-05-21T09:33:47.225-07:00

It has been a while since I've posted pictures of the kids, so I figured it was about time! Here are some cute recent ones of the two of them:Nolan being sillyHaving fun before bedtimeAll dressed for her "date" with DaddyNolan's favorite place to be

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-49929943054383425112009-05-15T13:59:00.000-07:002009-05-15T14:27:50.076-07:00

Did I mention in my last post that I felt like we had jumped on a moving train? Well, today felt more like a roller-coaster ride...at least emotionally. The 2nd of our two realtors came out this morning to show us the comparable houses in the neighborhood that were for sale and had recently sold. It painted a very gloomy picture for us - so much so, in fact, that after she left we were wondering

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979820889944686111.post-89986409065010018062009-05-13T05:48:00.000-07:002009-05-13T06:13:55.902-07:00

Well, now that Ryan has officially accepted the offer with Remington and signed all the paperwork, things have begun to move rather quickly! His first day on the job will be May 26th. So, thankfully, we get another week or so with him at home. Because of the way they have structured the relocation package (giving us a lump sum and we decide how to use it), we calculated that the least

The Smithsnoreply@blogger.com1