Looking back...

This is one of the last photos taken before halee moved out and left for college. I miss the wholeness we once had. But at the same time, I’m filled with joy that she’s happily married to a wonderful man that puts her first above all else.

I’ll always cherish having 6 children living in

My house but am realizing (whether I like it or not) that nothing can stay exactly the same and sometimes with change comes immense blessings.

No place I’d rather be...

I love home. It brings a feeling of peace and tranquility in a world of chaos. It’s not just the four walls that offer shelter or protection. It’s the time spent playing games together as a family. Sorry, and apples to apples are a few favorites. It’s the time spent in the kitchen making a Mexican fiesta for dinner, or baking cookies. It’s reading to the kids a chapter book at bedtime. It’s watching a good movie or television series that we are all hooked on. It’s staying at home in pajamas and loving every second of it. It is sitting on the porch swing  talking about anything and everything. It’s so many wonderful things. There’s no place I’d rather be.

Sophie...

Apparently Sophie found herself a comfy spot. She loves these kids. So does our other yorkie, belle. Having dogs has been more of a blessing than I ever expected. 

Donuts...

Don’t be jealous. Nevermind. Be jealous. Be very, very jealous...

Team...

The girls joined gymnastics 8 months ago as beginners. They moved up to advanced within just a few short months. I expected them to make “team” within a couple of years. They received an invitation to join team a week ago. I wasn’t sure at first how I felt about it. All the long hours spent at the gym. All the driving  back and forth. All the money...the MONEY. THE MONEYYYYY. But then I see how happy it makes the girls and how much they’ve grown by doing this sport. It’s helped them gain confidence and independence. I may have to eat beans and rice everyday for years to come but I’ll do it if I can help make a dream (or two) come true.

Music man...

Or should I say “men” because I havethree teenage boys that are constantly playing music. Connor and Christian are always learning new songs on their ukulele and Austin just bought his very own guitar. Seeing them do this rather than waste away looking at video games or smart phones makes my heart happy. Plus, the music is beautiful.

Easter...

We no longer have believers in this house. When Scarlett turned 8 she figured out that Santa and the Easter bunny were not real. Grace knows now too. But you know what? Holiday traditions still happen, regardless. And they are still the greatest moments. 

16...

This handsome boy is 16 years old. (Not the one with the beard, although he’s handsome too.)

It was just yesterday he was born on a beautiful sunny day. It was Easter. 18 hours of labor and worth every last second and every last pain from contractions. I love this boy. I get to keep him for two more years and I’ll love every bit of it.