celebrating

                                                This week we celebrated this awesome guy!
                       Technically he isn't our "middle child", since we have six, but he is the middle boy.
                           He is fiery and strong, quiet yet deep, task oriented and an avid reader.
                              He's extremely ticklish, with a beautiful face full of adorable freckles!!

Happy Birthday Aidan! You've been the easiest transition of our growing family. 

You're my best friend and I'm excited to see the plans the Father has for you.

the crib {life's milestone's}

this weekend marked a new era in our little family's life. the crib is officially packed up. in the attic.

the crib lingered in our Sweet Girl's room, even though she hasn't slept in it for over a year.

this weekend, the time came to pack it up.

 All six of our children have slept in this crib, which was passed down to us from another family member.

              For thirteen years, a crib has been part of our home, occupied by a sleeping Little One.
                               
 I sanded, painted, and sealed every inch of this crib.the crib that moved with our growing family three times.

The passing of this milestone is a bit emotional, full of wonderful memories, expectant for many to come.

{anticipating summer} life lately in photo's

This week has been laid back; Ben has lingered a bit longer in the mornings.

Our routine has been flexible to accommodate enjoying the sunshine.

Afternoons have been full of building/painting models, a dozen rounds of Twister, and lots of reading. 

And of course, everyone is loving on Sweet Pea! We're all anticipating the laid back days of summer!

At times it's easy for me to forget that this daily life, the routine, the ordinary, really is extraordinary! 

I'm immeasurably blessed to be surrounded by six beautiful souls who look to me for nurture, for guidance,

for encouragement, and love. Not just another meal, or educating their minds.

     Getting to "do life" with these people who I love most, is the best gift in this world!

Family is an extraordinary gift! 

   

introducing Sweet Pea

I've been away for a bit. I suppose moving twice in six weeks, and having a newborn will do that.

Our Sweet Pea blessed our lives earlier this year! As you can imagine, my life for the past 10 yrs has been boys, boys, boys. I absolutely love it! Life is always loud,  full of laughter, legos, and silly made up quotes.

Sweet Pea's timing is perfect. Absolutely perfect! I'm smitten. She is my best friend! I love her deeply!!

                                                          

This beautiful picture was taken by the very talented, Sandy Shaffer. I cried when the first time I saw it!

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                               It perfectly reflects my heart. I will treasure this moment always.

                      

                   We are beyond thankful that our lives have been blessed with this sweet Little One!

                      The Father knew what an extremely precious gift she would be to our family!

                                                   Our love for her is indescribable.