The Best News and a Family Update!
Goodness gracious, it's been awhile since I've posted on here. Some great things are happening, some difficult things, and some normal every day things....but that's life, isn't it? :)
Here's a little family update with what's been going on lately!
Maddieis 4 months old, which is the saddest thing ever. Pretty sure I've asked Andrew at least 50 times, "are you sure we're done?" because she's just the sweetest! I know what it's like having all baby boys but still desiring a girl someday. I never wanted to get my hopes up or show that I wanted a girl because I didn't want to be sad if a baby girl wasn't in our cards. But here she is, a complete dream. Yes, I've had sleepless nights and she's had more blow outs than I can count, but I am completely smitten. When I look at her, I think, "God, I didn't even think a baby was possible, yet you gave us this miracle!" After cancer, I honestly didn't know if I could have another baby and yet here we are!!! Maddie is a huge lovebug, always talking and chatting away and so content if someone's with her. She loves her brothers, when the house is loud, and snuggling with mama for nap time. She is such a joy and my bestie for life!
Nate is hilarious. Literally the definition of sweet and spicy, hot and cold, kind and fiesty. He's loving preschool on the days he goes and his teachers always say, "Nate was the best cleaner and listener today out of the whole class!" My question is, why isn't he like this at home? Haha :) If kids are great at school though, that tells you you're doing something right at home, mamas! Nate sings to Maddie, loves helping me, and is always cracking us up. He's super into cars, Star Wars, books, and not eating dinner. Nate, you have the best laugh and you are such a joy!
Reid is just a big lovebug too with the most tender soul. He is not a fan of change, he's besties with daddy, and is probably the sweetest with Maddie. He is thriving in school, got accepted into the private Christian school that Wesley is at, and his tested IQ was in the 98th percentile for children his age. We are so proud of him and thankful for how much he's growing and learning. The biggest news of all though: he repented of his sins and told Jesus he was going to serve Him forever as his Lord and savior (enter all the sobbing!). We were humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude over his decision and celebrated the rest of the week. Reid, you are a joy!
Wesley is still the typical oldest child, always looking out for everyone. Per his teachers, he is the most obedient and well-behaved student and always takes responsibility and leads well. We are so proud of who he is and who God is molding him to be. On the other hand, he was jumping on his bed, smashed his face, and broke his nose last month, so there you go :) Real life at the Jacobsmeyer's :) He's about to lose his two front teeth, he hit some home runs, grew out of his pants, has officially memorized more scripture than me, and learned how to skateboard really well. Wes, you are a joy!
Andrew is crazy busy, but what's new? Ha! We actually had some time with him in March because of his easy rotation which was refreshing for us all. It's really hard when the kids go days without seeing him or when I have zero help around the house. But he's constantly thriving in work and it's such a beautiful thing to see him obedient in the calling God has given him. He applies for a NICU fellowship in August and then we find out where we "match" again in December! We're hoping he gets into the program within an hour and a half of our neighborhood so we can stay in the home we're in and not move....but we'll see! He's my favorite person on the planet, the best dad and husband, and is constantly my rock in life always pushing me to Jesus.
Me....oh man. Well, if you follow me on instagram you know I've had some high highs and low lows the past few months. Let's start with a positive :) I recently was offered a publishing deal to WRITE A BOOK!!! I have imposter syndrome, I freak out about once a week, and I am so humbled by this entire journey and calling to write a book for all of you! It's been very difficult balancing it all, but I think I have somewhat of a system down to where I can focus on writing while being a present mother. I very much have a love-hate relationship with writing because it's SO FREEING but also awful as I rehash the worst parts of my story. But I know God will use every moment and tear poured out over this book.
I've also been struggling with my "no-thyroid" as I like to say. Since surgery and treatment, finding my new "normal" is extremely difficult. I've had the hardest time lately! Andrew looked at me the other day and said, "I miss Nicole." I started bawling and said, "Me, too." I wish I could explain in detail how this affects me, but I am completely changed. The thyroid plays a huge role in our bodies as it helps with metabolism, regulating your internal temperature, balancing hormones, and more. When it's taken out, it's like a puzzle piece is gone and I have to just live with it missing forever. That one last piece will never be found and I have to learn to be content with an incomplete puzzle.
Yes, I have the Lord and have tried "all the things," and to be honest, some stuff has worked....temporarily. So, how do you live a content life of peace while exhausted and feeling sick most days? Well....I'm writing about this exact topic in my book. How to cultivate JOY when you're hit with the most devastating circumstances. How to STILL praise God when life is full of pain, and how to rejoice in our earthly suffering without being fake.
So, theres a little sneak peak into my book :)
But in other great news my PARENTS MOVED HERE!!!!!! Which is the best news of all but here's even crazier news (that you all have been patiently awaiting)....my GRANDPARENTS are moving here, too!!!!!!!!! AND....they bought the house next door to my parents!!!!!!!!!!! Seriously, all my dreams are coming true. My mom, grandma, and I are so close and now Maddie gets to join in on the fun!
Can you believe it?! I've lived with my grandparents twice in my life during some difficult seasons, and they've always been such a beautiful example of grace and love. They've walked through so much in their life, yet they remain faithful and steadfast...I love them so much and I'm just SOOOO FORTUNATE to have my parents, and now my grandparents here. And now I'm crying again because I can't EVEN CONTAIN MY JOY!
Anyways, this is getting long, so thank you for always being here and being wonderful and bringing joy! Here are some cute photos from the last few months :)
Don't forget to find me on IG and come say hi! :)
xoxo, Nicole
Ps: I will for sure be showing you the 4 generation photoshoot when we get those done!!! You'll have to tell me if you think we all look similar :)
