singing and swords

Embry and Ellie had their school music program today. Here's a little taste of the cuteness. :)

Each year, I try to get their picture outside on the benches at the end of the year.

2009

2010

They weren't havin' it this go-around, so goofiness is all we got.

We've been playing A LOT outside lately. Today was no exception. :)

A boy and his sword.

guessing game

Looking back...

at the picture on my first blog post.

September 2008.

Don't you just want to squish those sweet little legs of hers?

Embry has been in Bwell for several days, giving his brother and sister the opportunity to hang out. If you know anything about their relationship, you know it's a bit of a rocky one. They don't get along so well. :) But I do have to say, they have done really well and there have even been occasions of actual playing together. This was on the way to church the other day...

Hayes: I'm thinking of something big and brown.
Ellie: A wolf.
Hayes: No. Bigger.
Ellie: A bear.
Hayes: No. It doesn't move.
Ellie: A statue of a wolf or a bear.
Hayes: No. It can be skinny or really fat.
Ellie: I'm wearing skinny jeans!!
Hayes: No, it helps us breathe.
Ellie: A dog!

Approaching irritation, Hayes reveals the answer to be a tree and she doesn't believe him.

Ellie: I'm thinking of something big and giant and big and giant and big and giant.

After multiple guesses, Hayes gives up.
Ellie reveals the answer... a giant.

I love listening to these games in the car, whether it be the guessing game, i spy or the quiet game. Embry and Ellie are juuuust on the verge of playing correctly and it it makes for some good laughs for Mommy.

looking back...

June 2007

Hayes had a first today.

He went into the boys' locker room before swimming lessons all by himself... found a locker, got dressed and headed out to class. After class, we waited for him while he dried off and got dressed. Well, I thought he got dressed.

It wasn't until we were at the car that I realized he had taken his swimsuit off and not put any shorts on. "Well Mom, I covered myself up with the towel!" I sure hope so, sweetie.

Which led to Embry's question on the way home. "Hayes, is your wiener bigger than mine?"

six

Hayes, this sixth year of your life has definitely been a year of growth. Physically, you are getting to be such a big boy. Nothing in your closet from last year fits.

But more than that, your little mind is growing with knowledge and creativity. You are learning to read, draw, tell time and have become quite the little swimmer.

You've got a way with legos. The creations you come up with continue to amaze me.

Your little quirks may just be my favorite thing about you.

You are determined to be a bachelor when you grow up. All things girl, marriage and kissing are gross. But just between you and me... I know you still like getting kisses from your mama. :)

If your shoes are not tied in the appropriate double knot, you. freak. out.

I hope I can take you to Rhode Island someday. For some reason, you fancy that little state.

Your jumping jacks are killer.

I feel like this past year of your life has also been quite the change for me, as your mom. It seems I've crossed over into the land of having a big kid. It's almost more than my heart can take. I look back at your baby pictures and my eyes fill up with tears. Where did the time go? Oh, to hold that precious baby again.

I'm so proud of you for the little guy you are becoming. And I'm so thankful that God chose me to be your mom.

I love you so much.

Happy Birthday, sweet boy.

Speaking of birthdays, we've had some pretty fun birthday parties in the past. Something tells me you're gonna like this one too. :)

wait for it...

wait for it...

wait for it...

looking back...

I haven't seen this video in so long. Hayes loved to help Grandpa and Nana feed the cows. It nearly killed me hearing that sweet little voice... in a good way, of course. :)

looking back

february 2007

today

It's simply amazing where three years will take you.

sweet kisses


my handsome boy


pretty in pink flowers

and because i couldn't choose from all of the sweetness...

fair flashbacks

2006

2007

2008

one year

Today marks the day when I first started this blog. Hard to believe it's already been one year.

Besides the whole collection of memories thing, there has a been a little bonus I wasn't expecting with starting a blog. I've been able to reconnect with old friends and make some wonderful, new friends. It's just been a truly amazing experience.

And I have to say this about the comments... they aren't the reason I do the blog but man, a comment is like the cherry on top! Thank you so much to those who take the time to peek inside my little world and leave me a note. Awesome!

Because giveaways seem to be the thing to do on a blogiversary, I couldn't pass up the opportunity! I want to give away a few of my favorite things. To enter, all you have to do is comment and tell me what has been the biggest highlight in your life over the past twelve months.

Here's what is up for grabs:

babypop personalized cape
one year subscription to Food Network Magazine

set of Larza Design initial notecards Comment before Thursday, September 10th. I'll announce the winners on Friday! woo! hoo!

A few of my highlights:

Hayes' creative thinking has brought us many laughs.

Embry and Ellie may not get along all the time, but it has been awesome watching the bond between them grow.

Ellie has shown me that potty training doesn't have to be the most miserable thing ever! She was a stud!

Embry loves to sing. And that singing makes me smile every time.

We've got one year of residency behind us and Kyle continues to work hard and make me so proud.

We have had one of the most fun, memorable summers!

Your turn!

looking back...

Today, I am thinking my babies are growing up too fast.