It's been a while...

I could write a lie, something very poetic and lovely, but the honest truth is I haven't really had anything great to say. You know the old adage, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." Well that's kinda where I've been. Don't get me wrong, I have a great job, a lovely home and an amazing family. That's what really matters right? Mmm...

I've been in a private slump. I've been working through it and I'm on the upswing. Life has just handed me a stack of cards that I'm not really sure how to play. This December has been the toughest of my life. Yes, I do know that it's the middle of February. The anniversary of mom's death had me really low. I'm not sure why this year was any different but it just felt heavier. Then her mother unexpectedly passed. I want to say that she died of heartache but I'm not really sure why it was her time. I know that I have no idea of the bigger plan and I am looking for the bigger lesson, but I am a little lost. I felt my most vulnerable and then I was thrown another curve to navigate. This is what life is like. But really? Not really sure where I'm going with this but today is tough. Guess today is just gonna be a rough one, could be the rain who knows. Pity party! Table for one!

Wesley

Wes is at a golden age where he is learning to play by himself. It's tough for him when Annie and Brenden need alone time, but he's finally loving his room. We brought all of Brenden's firehouse toys and Wes is in love! So much fun watching him play and have fun! I can't believe he's almost two already. Where does the time go?

Most wonderful time of year...

Christmas is my favorite time of year! This year has been no exception! Thanks to Papa and Sandy, we have a count down timer that is checked often. The tree has been decorated and the presents wrapped. I must say this year is running smoothly. I'm on schedule to get out cards, gifts are ordered or being made, and lists are being checked off. Because we don't have traditional t.v., the kids have no idea what new toys are out and are asking for things that they really want to play with. Amazing really! Last week I looked at my school calendar and realized that I get out a day and a half earlier than Brenden and Annie. YES! The only things missing, dare I say it, is the snow! I know that I may be crazy, but I just can't get enough of that lovely white stuff....All in all, things are going really well for this mama.

Birthday party

If you know anything about me, you know that right now I'm running on fumes. I've finally uploaded/downloaded all the pictures from this month! Here are a few without my ramblings...

September

Oh, how I loath you September! This happens to be the busiest time of the year for this little family. The month begins with the new school year. I must confess that I do love this day! Everything is new and shinny and still so good. The kids are actually excited to go to school and it is a pleasure to see. Once we have jumped back into the swing of things (for a few days), it is Annie's birthday and then 3 days later it's Bren's. Then we have the long awaited birthday party. I continue to be overwhelmed by this event every year. After the fun filled day, we have the dreaded doctor's appointments. First comes Wes's big day with shots and all. Next Annie and Brenden head into the doctor's chair. Oh did I forget to mention that we have also started soccer? So every Tuesday night we have practice and then Saturday we have the game. Are you exhausted yet???? I know I am but the good month is not over yet! There was the annual trip to the dentist for 4 of us, the endless arguments about why showers and brushing teeth are really necessary, and NOW we're in October! It has been a very busy month and I must say I am not sad to see you leave!!!!

First Day of school

Can you believe that Brenden is in second grade?! This is my young man headed to his first day in Mrs. L's second grade class. It has been a great transition from first grade and things are going very well!

My little peanut is not so little anymore. This is my darling girl getting ready for her first day of K0 )also known as her first year of kindergarten. She has grown so fast!

Family vacation with the Jewells

We chose one of the hottest days to tour our nation's capital. The kids were great! They loved the museums, the trains rides, and of course hanging out with Aunt Roo and Uncle Shane. Can you believe that we got no pictures of them with the kids!? Shame on me...

Brenden was a trouper in the back with Basil!

Can you believe that this is my little girl? She is so big!

Yes, my youngest is eating McDonalds! It really isn't a road trip with out it! He did a great job riding in the car for 10 hours!

Boys will be boys...

National zoo. A lovely day in the rain. It really was a perfect day for the
zoo.

My kids on the trip back. Simply breathtaking.