J.W.'s 1st Birthday

J.W. enjoyed his own cake to celebrate his 1st birthday this evening. He loved making a mess with it but didn't much care for the taste.

2 of his favorite guy buddies treated him to ice cream and fries at McD's. He lovesss these boys!

Spring Break

Now that's a big bull!

We spent most of Spring Break opening the new office, not much fun for the kids. So, Jogee and I left late Thursday afternoon for a few days of no schedule or To Do Lists! Our first stop on Friday morning was a little fun pampering (a girl needs pretty toes even if it's 30 degrees and raining). Afterwards we headed to Walmart for Brian and J.W. to pick out some new toys - they were soooo patient for us.

Life is soooo busy

Just want you to know I haven't forgotten about this blog, life has just been too busy. We received the keys to the new office yesterday and have been working non-stop to get everything in line. Things will slow down soon and I will update you on all the kids activities.

Eek! only 2 more weeks, and J.W. will be a year old! Every day counts to catch the adorable moments of him. he could be wearing a diaper and a pair of socks and still be the cutest he can be. I keep seeing him stand up ALL by himself, but then he realizes it, and goes plunk on the floor because he's excited. I remember when J.W. was only 2 minutes old! he was absolutely adorable in his beenie, and white/blue outfit. Can you believe it?- he is already signed up for pre-k at Parkhills! My mom said that when i was walking inside the house from school, my mom asked J.W. ''where's Chloe Mae?" and he pointed to the house! that smart little boy! Sure, he may be T-R-O-U-B-L-E sometimes, but he will always be cute, cute, cute! I don't regret one moment that i have had with J.W.! and i don't think anybody else has. My mom says that he is so painful sometimes(really!), but at the end of the day, she loves him with all her heart. I wouldn't trade the world for that stinker!

Fun Days

Sara Beth is such a happy girl - we are very blessed! J.W. loves taking baths in the kitchen sink - mostly because he can splash water everywhere, all while being the center of attention. He is having so much fun!

I was folding laundry and he climbed into Sara Beth's chair. He was very proud of himself! Happy 11 month's big boy...

Anna Claire Plays for a Crowd

The talent show at church was last night and Anna Claire played for it. Brave girl!

Sara Beth's Field Trip to the Stock Show

A Friend Will Soon Head Home To The Lord

I am not so great at putting my thoughts to paper, but I feel compelled to share my thoughts...

At 6:30 this evening I rec'd a call from an elder friend that one of our common friends would shortly be called Home. She is an 80 year old woman with a fire in her belly for her Aggie friends, every soldier on this earth, and her community in general. She suffered a stroke a few weeks ago and hasn't been strong enough in body to recover.

This weekend she was moved to the home she shares with her husband of 60 years for Hospice care. Late this afternoon, one of her son's was lead to ask a few friends over to celebrate her life. So, at 7:30, myself and about 15 others arrived. A bed was setup in the living room and the entire room was decorated with streamers and decorations ( just like a party). Each person was asked to share a story or thought with the group. Then we joined hands, encircling her, and sang wonderful hymns. You could see her body relax with each song. Then each person was given the opportunity to pray for and with her and say goodbyes.

I share this because this is my third Hospice death of a dear friend in the past year. And interestingly enough, the ages have ranged from young mom, to mom of college kids, to this beloved grandmother. And in each situation, the family choose to celebrate the person as the end drew near. What a blessing for those left behind! Each of these women had a huge impact on my life and the lives of our children. And the loss of 2 and emanate loss of 1 more certainly brings me to my knees. What I have learned from each, is that actions speak much louder than words. These were all women of great character and strong love for their family. I can only hope to learn from them and share the love of God because of them.

Blessings...
sb

Sick

Anna Claire has the flu - say a little prayer for her quick recovery please...

J.W. had a flu shot before Christmas and we are washing everything like crazy, so we hope nobody else will get it.

On the bright side, she rec'd the "Walk with the Principle" Award at school on Friday. Good affirmation for all the hard work she has done this year.

Our Little Ham

J.W. makes this face and it makes us all laugh. Anna Claire made the exact same face when she was a baby! Do you think he knows how cute he is?!