Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Together Again

We had a week full of crazy cousin fun! We hadn't seen Matt, Sarah and the kids since last Christmas. We were all SO glad to spend the week with them. We're always so amazed at how much each of the kids have changed over the course of a year. We're so ready for them to be back in the states! Here's a shot of 7 of the 9 cousins :) We SO desperately missed our fam in Seattle, but we're very much looking forward to a visit with Becky, Jason & the boys this spring!
This was no easy photoshoot...mostly because of my little stinker! He has started turning on the waterworks evertime you try to sit him down for pictures. He clung to me for dear life and hated every second of the photoshoot. We only got 1 or 2 of him that didn't involve pouty lips and crocodile tears. Maybe next year!
Nana is oh so talented! She traced around each of the kiddos and hung them out on the porch.
The cousins enjoyed lots of bedtime stories together. Every single one of them love to read!
We spent one morning at Island Playground. It was a hit for the kids and adults! It wore everyone out and got rid of so much energy!
Even Goomba made it down the big slide! He never misses out on the fun.
The two Morgan boys having a chat about cars. We know thats what Eli was talking about, because thats what he talks about ALL day.
These two little guys are so close in age, and share the same passion for trains.
Baby Luke provided many hours of cuddles all week! He's such a sweet baby, and really just goes with the flow!
We spent another morning at the children's museum. It was just the perfect place for our crew. It has something for everyone. We did arts and crafts, played dress up, and all of the kids stayed busy the entire time. We especially enjoyed our lunch at Smokehouse afterwards :)
Our time together is never long enough, but we always enjoy every second of it. The kids all played so well together, and were so well behaved. We're already looking forward to the next time!

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Learning to Ride a Tricycle

Eli got a tricycle for Christmas from his Great-Grandparents. We figured we would wait until early Spring to put it together, but took advantage of a few warm days several weeks ago and let him test it out. He has a tiny bit of growing to do, but actually figured it out really quick! Once he got on, he didn't want to get off! It's so fun to watch them learn new things. I just can't believe he's old enough to be riding a tricycle.

He had lots of help from Daddy


He must have rang the bell a million times. At least we'll always know where he is on this thing!

He got more confident and started blowing kisses as he rode by us. So sweet!

I know he'll spend MANY hours riding his new tricycle this Spring. Bring on the warmer weather...please!

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Cold Winter Days

Here's what we've been up to on this very cold week...

Lots of reading!
Trying to burn off some energy indoors
Showing off his 'fish lips' to daddy after dinner
I'm so thankful my busy boy loves to read. He will sit on the couch or floor for long periods of time and flip through a book.
He finally played with playdough for the first time! He got a lifetime supply for Christmas, plus a fun Elmo playdough toy. He's all about Elmo, so he just loves it!
Cold winter days are good for resting.
And reading with daddy!
He just cracks us up with his many faces. I love those lips!!
We're gearing up for a ton of fun next week! Our Japan family will be in town for the week, and it's been a very long year since we last saw them. We can't wait to see them, and to see the cousins together again. I'm excited to be able to put my new camera to good use!

Saturday, January 1, 2011

A New Year

If 2011 is half as good as 2010 was, then it will be another great year. The Lord has been so good to our family, and that is something that we never take forgranted. We're ever so grateful for good health, the love and support of our families, wonderful friendships, and excitement about the future despite tough economic times. I've never been one to set unrealistic New Years resolutions. This year mine are pretty simple. I want to live each day to the fullest, striving to be the very best wife and mother for my family, while doing so in a manner that is pleasing to our Heavenly Father. I'm also praying that I'll be the support that my husband needs every single day. 2011 marks his first year to hold the head baseball couch position. He's living out his dream, and I couldn't be more proud of him! These are the precious moments that make life that much sweeter.

We spent some time with Nana & Pop Pop tonight celebrating the New Year. Eli lights right up when he sees them!


He played SO hard while we were there!
This sweet little goldie has been a part of our family for almost 3 years now! Yesterday she turned 3 years old, and she's such a special part of our lives. Cheesy..but we sure do love our pooch!

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11