A Lot of Fun = A Lot of Photos

This last week is one we look forward to. It was our town's celebration, and we soaked it all up:

The picnic in the park.

One of the many parades:

Maren is big into pulling funny faces when I take a photo these days:

The Miniature Parade. Nick made the bed on the float.

Ellie LOVED being on the float, and was a champion waver.

I was actually the one pulling the wagon with the whiny Everett, but got a quick shot when Nick took over for a minute. Notice E's sippy cup is on the road? Yep, he thought it was great game to throw the contents of the wagon out. At least he wasn't whiny for that moment.

And then the Grand Parade. I watched with the kids (and friends and extended family) while Nick helped pull the mini float. Everett enjoyed some chocolate milk.

I can claim the red-headed one (my neice). One hot rifle-twirler if you ask me. :)

It really was a fun week. We all enjoyed a lot of friend and family time.

Warm Days

Oh, my boy. He makes my heart so happy. He is at that contented-with-life stage where things like dirt can entertain him for long whiles and as long as sisters aren't trying to carry him around and stuff, he is one happy guy. He loves water too, and when he noticed the sprinkler going in the garden, just couldn't resist going to check it out. Funny boy.My Missy Maren. She is nearly three. Need I say more? This morning she cried for about 5 minutes because Ellie had the pink plate. I swear, I'm going to throw the pink plates away.
But is she not beautiful? Those eyes kill me every time. And is she 12 or 2? She just looks so grown up in these photos. And a quiet moment enjoying warm sun. Notice Everett's popsicle is upside down? :)

No Ellie in these photos, but I promise she was there. She's at that age/stage where she takes great pleasure in avoiding the camera. Stinker.

Oh, and if you care to know, our house went back on the market again yesterday. We also had our first showing yesterday. Here we go again.

50 Years

50 years ago today, my parents were married. My parents are amazing people, and I'm so eternally grateful for all they have taught me. They are examples of hard work, determination, faith, dedication, patience, and love.Over the weekend, we had a celebration in their honor. All 12 siblings were there (we were missing some grandkids and a spouse though - we missed you!) It was a wonderful evening remembering and honoring 50 years well lived, and rejoicing in the heritage that has been left for us who follow. After the party, we spent the weekend at my parent's house so we could spend time with brothers and sisters and their families we don't get to see very often. The kids LOVED being on the farm and playing with cousins.Everett chasing the chickens:Due to all the fun, my kids experienced a severe lack of sleep. Ellie decided at around 6 in the evening to find a place to catch up a bit. She actually started out on Grandma's kitchen floor and I pulled her into the living room where chances of her getting stepped on were fewer.A fire and s'mores with Grandpa:

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad! Many more happy years to come!

Little Bitty

Here she is, princess #3. This is a profile shot of her head, for those 85% of you who have no idea what the blobs are in ultrasounds (which include my husband and a good portion of our family). That's a tiny little hand up by her forehead. Like a true lady, she had her legs crossed the entire hour the ultrasound tech was poking around. She had her legs crossed indian style for awhile (is that offensive to anyone? Would you rather I say criss-cross applesauce?) The other while she had her legs stretched out, but they were still crossed at the ankles, as shown here: And here is a bottom shot of her little tootsies: Ultrasounds are just so fun (when everything is going well, that is) and it was so reassuring to get a little 'peek' to see what is going on. Life really is a miracle. To think this little girl started out as two tiny cells and in only 20 weeks, whole body systems are up and running. Incredible.