Ate it Up

 

Despite our very busy weekend, Mason and I had a shoe shopping date. We had a special coupon to use during a specific time and he desperately needed new sneakers. Thankfully he is SO easy to buy for. The store had only a small selection in his size. He didn't mind and just picked the ones that felt best (all the while, hoping to impress his big brother). 

We still had plenty of time before the littles would be up from their naps so we enjoyed an ice cream treat. It was a beautiful afternoon and such a JOY to be outside with this middle man of mine.

He definitely ate up my undivided attention and we such a great conversation. He is an easy one to talk to under these circumstances. 

The ice cream was in celebration of some awesome choices he has been making in school. The academic part does not come that naturally to him, but he has been recognized several times this month for his character. We are so proud of him. The school work we can work on and practice, heart work is a lot more complicated ;) 

It's tricky finding quality time for EACH child. As they grow older though it is easier for me to see the ways they need to be loved. 

A treat for both of us for sure!

7 Months Since Gotcha

On the 7 month anniversary of Avery's Gotcha, she spent the night away (with Mason and Ryan) at my parents! (it was just coincidence and it occurred to me later) It was less than 24 hrs, but it was nice to be free from my little shadow ;) EJ and I attended 2 (adult) birthday parties. Avery did great.

Today, Avery found her squeaky sandals that we bought in China. Her toes were hanging over (hooray for growth) but she managed a lot of laps and laughter. Hardly the wobbly one anymore ;)

Practice Makes Perfect

If at first you don't succeed, try, try, try, try again.

 It will pay off :)

 He never complains about being a fan, even though I know he'd rather be the one the court.

Painting My Arm Off

Our tile guy broke his wrist two weeks ago at his day job, so the bathroom has been on hold :( This past weekend, despite 3 bball games and 2 bday parties, EJ managed to be the guy's "right" hand, just to get the job done. A little more grout and caulk (by EJ) and we'll be ready for the plumber to reinstall toilet and sink. Hooray!

I have been painting and painting and painting. Two weeks ago, I started loosing track of the # of coats on things. Most surfaces are requiring 3 coats. Starting from new construction is intense. I had avoided a "To-Do" list until then, fearing I'd be overwhelmed and avoid the basement all together. It eventually became necessary.At first, it was rewarding to cross something off. Then, it became apparent that each time I crossed something off, I was adding something new. I will spare you the list, but it's still very long :(

Last week, I decided I'd never be done painting. I spent almost every nap and evening painting and the list was still daunting. I have no reason to complain, we will (eventually) have an awesome space to welcome friends and family, BUT it's getting old!

Today, a painter is coming over to give us a quote for staining and painting the stairs. I can't even fathom that at my (slow) speed.

My hope has returned this week, and I am getting glimpses of the bottoms of my 9 paint cans. I may likely never want to paint again. Too bad when you paint 1 floor, you notice how bad the rest of the house (after 8 yrs) is looking. Oh, well!

Final Four, 2 Wins

The Ducks are going to the Championship, this Friday!! 

We are so proud of these boys (coaches too). They gave it their ALL and they played awesome this weekend. Saturday's win meant another game on Sunday. Sunday's win means they play the undefeated Syracuse team in the final championship game.

EJ and Carl are friends through church. It's been fun watching their friendship grow. 

They are a great pair out there.

Y'all do you see that choke hold on MY boy? I don't know how I am going to watch games as he gets older. It's getting crazy out there.

 He could NOT be more excited. It's going to be a long week waiting for THE game ;)

Mom was at our house with the other 3 during nap time so I could go, that's the only way I can take pictures and actually watch the game. Dad and I cheered them on.