homework

the day they turned five

what a difference five years make.

today was an interesting day.

because i knew daddy couldn't be with us, i hesitated to make a big deal of your birthday today.

but it's just hard not to celebrate two of the most amazing blessings a mama could ever ask for.

i hope you each felt special and celebrated all day long. 

and as soon as daddy gets home from malawi, we'll celebrate again!

love you so much,

mommy

baby ezra

Welcoming another precious nephew into our family.

Congrats Andrew, Laura and Jude!

so long, farewell

A bittersweet day it has been. Dora (the explorer) has been traded in for a new girl.

As I scraped and scrubbed the remnants of who knows what off her floors,

I couldn't help but think about how much our family has relied on her over the past years to get us from one place to another.

Our babies have become kids during our time with her.

Sure, I'm beyond excited about our new car and the fact that when I put this new car in reverse,

my kids will no longer think that I am popping a wheelie, but it still makes me a little sad.

Here's to good memories, new beginnings and a water only rule that will be strictly enforced. :)

back to school!

Off to a great start for our little pre-k kiddies and big boy 2nd grader!

 

thirteen years

 together since we were kids.

no regrets.

thankful beyond words that you are the one who has my heart.

love you long time.

a good day to be a little girl.

like most mornings, ellie sneaks in and takes over kyle's empty spot.

getting ready for our day of fun.

you can't have a girlie day without a pedi... and matching blue polish.

tea time.

we've got to make this a tradition. so much fun!

"swing me just two times, then watch what i can do."

pink sugar cookies, please.

and what better way to end a day? a date with daddy, of course. italian food and pottery painting on the agenda.

is there really a better feeling than seeing your husband spend time with your little girl?

her anticiptating the date all week? him opening the door for her as they head out for their night together? 

me knowing that he is taking the time and preparing her heart for what to look for in a man someday.

this is what it's about, people. good stuff.