smiling

finally caught her smiling (sort of) on camera... it is hard to catch when we're ready with the camera and of course her smiles last longer when there isn't a camera in sight

the biggest smile yet has been for her sister and brother

a funny face

One Week Old

She is the sweetest. Loved by her brother and sister. Adored by all. She sleeps and eats well. She smiles in her sleep. She smiles with her siblings. She is already so dear.

held by dad

cuddling with mom

all 10 pounds

day 2 - meeting big sister & big brother & being sung happy birthday

day 3 - surrounded by love

sisters

day 4

big brother

day 5 - look at that hand!

day 6

Kindergarten!

I wasn't sure how I'd feel when our eldest went to kindergarten. I know she is ready and excited. She will make new friends, have new experiences and continue to grow. It is an exciting time for her. We missed her a little the first day. At first, it was so nice. The house was quiet, calm and stayed clean. But as the day went on, I realized more and more how much she fills our home with her creativity, laughter, and enthusiasm for all she does. She plays with her little brother most days so well and has such fun ideas. The little person I've had around with me at home for the last 5 years is, in part, gone, on her own, the first of many transitions to come. This is probably a glimpse into dropping her off at college. Time goes by so fast. God has her in His hands and has much in store for her, and created her for a special purpose. I just hope we can do our part to share His love and truth with her, as well as help her navigate life and develop her gifts and talents. I'm glad we trust God to help us with this. It makes it so much more joyful, endurable, and sure.

Garage

It's done, finally! Yay! Well almost, but close enough for now. The garage is painted (floor, walls, ceiling) and organized. The only thing left is setting up all the tools in the shop, but that's it. Thanks to my dad and Ryan, who painted while it was 100 degrees outside (with the garage sealed because Ryan wanted to spray the primer). Katie helped sprinkle specks on the floor. My mom helped the last two days to go through everything and organize it. Everything has a place. Ryan is happy about that. And I'm happy we'll be able to focus on the inside of the house a little more... maybe the kids will soon have a light they can reach to turn on/off by themselves in their room. All kidding aside, the garage looks great, Ryan! You persevered through pool troubles, broken garage door, ants, and heat for almost a month, often working late into the night so you could still spend time with the fam. And my parents are parents of the year. They'll probably think twice before coming to "visit" again. Ha!

Clean, sealed floor. Imagine cars parked within the blue tape lines and the stuff to the left gone (as in giveaway).

New floor paint

Beautiful, smooth, clean walls

Bikes and strollers accessible & organized