Not a bad way to start your morning, huh?

Lately...

"You think winter will never end, and then, when you don't expect it, when you have almost forgotten it, warmth comes and a different light."  from Wendell Berry's Hannah Coulter

I know, I know.  More W.B. quotes.  But if the shoe fits...  The warm weather was just in time for my sanity.  I've been feeling a little cooped up and cranky.  It's amazing to me how much difference some nice warm, sunny weather can make.  The kids and I made it outside today and it did us all good.  People are smiling, happily awaiting spring.  It's right around the corner!

 

  

Have I mentioned how cute she is?

The birthday party- complete with a camo-cake...

and indoor swimming.

Happy Birthday Jack!

 

I passed this little guy in the hallway the other day. "Bear."  I had to take a picture because as soon as I saw him, I thought to myself that there was a time when Bear would never have been left on the floor.  And if he was, it wouldn't be for long.  Jack took him everywhere.  He wore it out, rubbing his arm between his fingers while he sucked his thumb.  I remember one night I had put feet pajamas on Jack before bed.  As I got ready to turn out his light, he said he needed his "socks" off.  What he couldn't tell me was why.  Turned out, every night he put Bear between his toes.  That's why Bear was always at the end of the crib in the morning!

Well, Bear does not do life with Jack so much anymore.  Jack is eight today.   And yes, I'm getting a little teary again as I think about this neat guy who is growing up too fast and doesn't need his Bear. He's growing and learning all the time and has the best laugh and a great smile.  He brings us lots of joy and we are so very thankful for him.

 

  

  

First Birthday

 
 

  

Happy 8th Birthday Jack!

A Sweet Day

I'm a little behind on all I could be blogging about.  Well, let's face it, a lot behind and I probably won't get caught up.  Maybe in the next few days...
But today.  What a sweet day it was in our family.  Our little Lucy was baptized into the covenant family this morning.  I love these baptisms as they remind me of God's beautiful promises to His people, of His goodness and loving kindness.  Lucy's was extra special.  She was baptized by her Daddy and though I didn't get teary then I am now.  How sweet to hear him say "Lucy Josephine Waters, I baptize you..."  And do you know, she slept right through it. 

Happy Birthday Samuel!

Happy 3rd Birthday Sammy!

I really can't believe this little guy is three today.  Seems like he has grown up so much in the past few months.  I watched the baby in him fade away and be replaced by a little boy who goes potty, plays games, sings "Jesus Loves Me," and change his mind so fast.  I never really know what to expect with Sam.  He's that wonderful mix of fiery and sweet, explosive and funny.  I think as a mother, there will always be that part of my heart that breaks as these children grow and rejoices to watch it happen, all at the same time.  Here he is along the way...

 

  

 

Two Snippets

"Sammy, are you mommy's big boy?"

"No."  (his favorite word by the way)

"Are you my little boy?"

"No."

"Well then who are you?"

"I a man."

Not yet, buddy, not yet.

Lucy had shots today.  She was not happy for the rest of the day and who can blame her?

Jack and I were talking about it as he settled in for the night when he looked at Lucy and said,

"Lucy, if anyone tries that again, I'll punch 'em all the way to China."  

What a guy.

 

And it's fixed!  Thanks to D.B.!