the HOUSE: Katelyns' room

Here are the before pictures of Kate's room. Very boring. When we found out that we were having a girl I insisted on white furniture. So feminine, so pretty against a soft pink, lavender, yellow, or green. But not a yucky off-white.

Disney has a color called Cinderella's Glass Slipper. So beautiful, wispy and fresh. The perfect color for her fairy garden room.

We have painted her room, but I am not showing them yet because we are not done. We are adding a strip in Moonlight Waltz. And I still have to do a few other things to it. But soon.

Okay, a quick preview.

The picture does not do the color justice. You will just have to believe me.

So sweet, isn't she?

Independence Day

Our 4th of July was pretty quiet. We chilled at home until Brandon got off of work and then we headed to Grandma and Papa's. We had an excellent dinner of ribs, corn on the cob and homemade cheesecake. yuuummmy!

Then the boys (Papa, Eric, Josh) played with the fireworks. Papa decided that Eric was old enough to light them...


I can't imagine a noise that would bother J enough to get him to cover his ears. He was being silly.


Katie wanted to play with other toys. She was not overly impressed with the fireworks. It was her that was not liking the noise.

After the activities the boys stayed with Grandma and Papa to watch the cities firework show while Brandon, Kate and I went home and to bed. In my opinion, the perfect way to end any holiday, SLEEP!

the HOUSE: Joshua's room

One beautiful and wonderful day J's room was clean. Very clean (I did help a little). So I took a moment to get some before pictures. Truthfully I have no idea when the after pics will come, but I do have a plan for his room.

From the door.

From the window.


From the closet door.

The closet. Not too great on cleanliness, I know. I took these picture to show what great closets we have in this house. They are quite large and hold a lot of things Perfect for people with kids! I am convinced that the architect of this home plan had a bigger than average family. There is room for everything and more!

creative obedience

Lately we have been struggling with Eric to eat healthy. One night I told him to just eat! I was very frustrated. So he did what he was told... with a helper... one who loves her veggies (and other foods too)!

Kate's Birthday party

my two-year old

My Kate is two.
She is my last baby, my girl, and she is growing up.

I think that she is at the very best possible age. So happy and fun. So sweet. I think that I would be happy if she stayed like this forever.

But she can't, and I am having a hard time accepting that.

BUT... since I have absolutely no choice, I want to share some things that make her so sweet and endearing.

* she gives the best hugs. whole body hugs. she wraps her arms around your neck and squeezes

* her smile lights up a room

* she dances like dora the explorer

* she likes to snuggle in bed with you in the morning

* she is a book lover. she has to have one read before nap and bed time. and she will always try for more!

* she can hold her own with her brothers. she is a tough little thing!

* if someone is sad she has to give them hugs and kisses to help them feel better

* she kisses her own boo-boos

* she knocks on her own door in the morning to come out

And more! I could never begin to list all things that make her so wonderful. She is funny and happy and smart. But I am her Mom. I am completely biased.

I love you my dear daughter. Thank you for bringing such joy into my life. I am so lucky to be your Mom.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Here is the announcement that I made for Kate's scrapbook.
She is turning two, obviously.

I just can't believe it. I think that I am in denial.

My baby is getting big.

And so cute.

wow.