Together

I love it when they can find something to do all together. One of my favorite things about being a mother of a large family is actually watching them interact together all on their own. My kids may drive me nuts once in a while but they really are the best of friends. 

Lincoln's 4th light up birthday

 This little sunshine turned four on Thanksgiving so we celebrated a day early. He didn't seem to mind. We took a trip to the Chilson swim center and ate ice cream cake. Since he brings light to my  life, we gave him a little bit back- a flash light and light up car track found their way into his present stack. One of my favorite parts of the day is picking up Lincoln from preschool and holding his hand back to the car. "Lincoln, do you know who I love? YOU!" "Mom, do you know who I  love? YOU! You're my best." Lincoln is also beginning to read beginner phonetic books, zooms like a train with pistons pumping, makes friends wherever he goes, and enjoys music.

Fly High

These are my superheros. 

They have joy in their heart.

 They bring me joy in my heart.

I feel lighter just watching them.

Angel

I probably write this every year, or some version of it, but Ruth is still my angel child. She is a peace maker and always so helpful. I love to be around her and listen to her read. In kindergarten we do a fair amount of reading out loud but she is progressing so well, it is hardly any work. She tries to make her younger siblings happy and  loves to giggle. She will sit at the art counter and draw pictures of people she knows or write small notes to a family member. Ruth also has her own fashion sense though, and likes to wear any sort of shoe that has a heel. Warm blooded by nature, shorts or skirts are the preferred attire. I can already tell she will be tall and slender. Ruth Anne is a joy to have in our home.

Snazy

A Christmas gift from Grandma and Grandpa Barry. Hand made wooden bow ties for all the men in the family. Thank you!

A Visit from Mrs. Claus

I just had to put her in this dress at least one time before she out grew it, even though it was technically the Sunday after Christmas. Alara stayed home with Zach and the other sick household members the week before on Christmas Eve. The children were calling her Mrs. Claus and it seemed to make her smile, although she doesn't understand the reference yet.

Reading with Grampy

Found this picture from Mom and Dad's trip back in October. It's always fun to have an animated reader come visit our home.