16...

My sweet 16 year old boy...except Chris says it's not a sweet 16 because he's a boy. But whatever, it's sweet to me. He's sweet to me. Being his mom is sweet to me. Life is sweet with this boy in it. The end.

Namesake...

What's in a name anyway? To me, for whatever reason...it's everything. When I became a "Chapman" I didn't really know what was in store for me. I had faith that it was the right thing, and that was it. That faith truly paid off. My life has been so blessed ever since. I love being a "Grizzard." It's a name that means hard work, honesty, faithfulness, determination. It means so many lovely and wonderful things. Being a Chapman means so many wonderful things, too. What stands out to me the most is loyalty. I can honestly look at my father in law, brother in laws and husband and be so proud to belong to a family where the women in their lives are truly cherished. My heart swells with joy to know that I have the privilege of belonging to this wonderful family and having two names that I can honestly say I wouldn't change for anything. And every time my boys ask if I need help with anything, or hold the door open for me I think to myself "You are a Chapman." And my heart swells.

Pure joy...

When Grace was born I was set on naming her Shelby. I had been for several months. When she came out I couldn't bring myself to call her that. It didn't fit. It wasn't her. I knew she was a grace within a few short hours of this little internal name battle. Grace is so fitting for this sweet and accepting smile. She brings pure joy to my heart. I can't help but feel so blessed to have children that to me, are unique...lovely...priceless...and the epitome of pure joy. I am so very blessed...

8th grade graduation...

This sweet boy of ours graduated 8th grade today. His teacher, has been the kindest teacher you could ever hope for your child to have. Patient, loving, and the kind of teacher that genuinely loves her students. Connor had a splendid year, and I have no doubt that high school will bring many great more memories. We love you our sweet boy.

Uphill climbing...

I remember when Halee turned 14 and it was her first year of seminary. She was the youngest in there with no other kids her age. She was so quiet and felt very out of place. She begged me to let her do seminary at home. Her tears broke my heart and for a second I considered it. But we received great advice from my parents and Chris' mom and they all incouraged us to let her go through this hard experience. I'm so thankful for their wisdom because she did it, and today she graduated 4 years of seminary. She has a testimony that shines like a beacon in the dark. 

My handsome boy...

Just because you're handsome...and I like posting handsome pictures of super special, handsome boys. Love you mister Christian...

Garden...

I haven't had a real garden in two years due to my heavy load of studies so you can imagine the joy I felt knowing we could plant this year. The kids were so excited too. I can't wait to eat fresh vegetables. Nothing compares to a home grown tomatoe sandwich. My mom fed us these regularly growing up. Makes my mouth water just to think about it...