sneaky lady

After dinner tonight everyone was having brownies. Issabelle decided it was time for her to have a try. She got up on the step stool and stole a piece before her mama could say no. It was a tiny piece but was she ever proud of herself.  She is very quick to catch on to what is going on and wants to do whatever her big brothers are doing. We are going to have our hands full....

11 months

It is hard to believe that in a few short weeks this little lady will be one! She is fully walking and climbing up onto everything. When she figured out how to stand on the step stool and look over the counter she was so pleased with herself. She loves chasing the boys around and doing everything they do- or at least wants to. She says Mama, Dada, hi, more, and what we think may be William. She understands tons and is so much fun to play with. Showing her things is great. She learns it so very quickly. I love how she runs to the door every time it opens. She wants to get outside, or when Daddy comes home, she'll go running to see him. When we snuggle in bed for milk she starts giggling and gets so excited for what is to come. She gives awesome hugs and waves bye-bye or hi. Learning to do her chores she helps with the laundry every morning as I hand her the clothes to put in the dryer. It takes a bit longer but it is so awesome to watch her be so very proud of herself for helping. She has a total of 4 teeth with two more slowly coming in so our nights have been tough with the teething.

I am not sure what my favorite thing is about her right now-- there is too much to love-- but I know the crazy hair is up there!!

super saturday

Last Saturday we had some family fun. First we went bowling right in our town. It is a small bowling alley but just right for us and we are hoping to take more advantage of it this winter. Then after lunch and a rest we all headed outside to help Harkin learn to ski and Issabelle got to lots of rides in the sleds. Everyone felt refreshed from outside time and came in to eat a nice yummy dinner.

new years eve

We did our traditional fondue again. This year Harkin was really interested in what it was and loved watching as our food cooked. However he wanted it right away, so we were constantly having to be one step ahead of him.

Everyone else had a good time and then we played a game or two, watched a movie and made it to 12:00. Well, not the two little ones- their time is still several years away.

It was a pretty mellow night but so thankful our family still enjoys being together.

sunday smiles

caught in action

Harkin and Issabelle were having so much fun one night tearing the sticker box apart and spreading them all over the place. There were tons of giggles form the little girl as her big brother made most of the mess. He tells us he was just keeping her happy.

2016

A new year full of promise and new moments to come. Trying to bring more balance, organization and simplicity to our lives as we venture on. Watching as my eldest becomes a teenager and youngest a toddler all while have two fun loving boys in between. Our life as 6 has been wonderful so far and I can only hope for many more amazing family moments.

Last night Eric and I quietly celebrated being together for 20 years. We reminisced where we were so long ago and how much has happened in these years. It hasn't always been easy but we have stood by one another and made it through. I am so very thankful for his love and friendship. My life would not be complete without him.

Our family is my life and this year I strive to be a better wife, mom and homemaker. I am working on taking better care of myself so I can have the energy to be there for them. I wish to be more creative, patient and loving in all my tasks.

This is my life. These are my memories. These are my moments.