Flyin Ryan

This kid's imagination cracks me up. The conversations we have are mind boggling. If he isn't talking about farming, it's something to do with animals or art. Yesterday, it was the later 2. He made (with my help) a "dragon." Thankfully his imagination is so great, his creations can take very little effort ;)

Well, as soon as it was done, he jumped inside. When the dragon didn't take-off flying, he was flabbergasted. Seriously?!? Oh, the things we should prepare our children for ;) "How can I make it fly, mommy?" Uh...

Again, his imagination came to the rescue and he decided putting it on the swing would do just the trick. Genius, this kid :) And happy as a lark!

His newest idea... "we need a pet pig, momma. To eat all our garbage."

14 years {Belated}

We celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary in Dec. We didn't get a picture, then, because our dinner date was sandwiched between basketball practice drop-off and pick-up. A couple of weeks ago, we we went out again and my sister took a few photos of us. It's a treasure to have intentional pictures of just the two of us!

Our 14th year definitely stretched us as we adjusted to being parents to four and more importantly a daughter. I know girls are different, bc I am one, but wow ;) It's hard to admit, but I miss being the only female in the house ;) I love that EJ adores his daughter, despite the stiff arm she gives him, but it has been an adjustment for me.
We faced many medical challenges over past year, a reminder of how our bodies are fragile and miraculous all at the same time. Thankfully EJ's back is much better, but he is still taking it easy and counting his blessings on the good days.
I am amazed and thankful at the team we have become and I am grateful that God continues to draw us to Himself and each other. 

How We Roll

I took the kids bowling this morning on their day off. I don't usually attempt this sort of thing on my own. It's nice that Owen and Mason are old enough to help me. They were especially sweet to their sister. Avery wasn't sure what to make of the sport. She hung in there, but I think it was sensory overload. She asked to use the potty several times (a rarity). Perhaps the quiet bathroom was a refuge of sorts ;)
I bowled too. I almost didn't, to save money, but I am so glad I did. They loved that I played, at least until I won. hee hee!
Next year for Christmas, I am going to try and remember all these Jan/Feb holidays and suggest gift cards to an indoor activity place as gift ideas for the grandparents :)

Might As Well Jump

Shh... don't tell the big boys!

They have to get their energy out in the winter somehow.

Kickin It Camo Style

Yesterday, was our first "snow" day. More like an ice/cold day. I didn't take any pictures,but it was full of games— board and electronic, plus Grandma was here for the first half and we braved the roads go out to lunch :)

Today, we had a late start. Lots of arguing and walking around not knowing how to spend their time. We all walked to the bus, that doesn't usually happen. We needed to be in the light dusting of (1st) snow that had fallen overnight.

 

The only real girly thing about Avery is she loves shoes. Even more she loves being like one of the boys. So imagine her surprise, when she got to wear (new to her) snow boots, camo style :) Even on the wrong feet, she loves them!