life

Things have been pretty "normal" around here. However, Brenden has been stepping up his responsibilities all on his own. He's really taking charge! It's not always received well, but from one eldest child to the next...well done! Anyway, the kids and I were out eating dinner at a fine suburban establishment one night a couple of weeks ago when the strangest things occurred. We were in the restroom (not strange for this 7mth. prego) and Annie claimed she didn't have to go. Well, I had to and so did Bren so she was forced into the restroom with us. Annie was putting up a fight (imagine that) when Bren stepped in and offered an "option" to Annie. This is the conversation...
Bren: Annie why don't you come with me?
Mom: You OK with that Bren?
Bren: Yep, Ann let's go.
Mom: Are you sure?

At which point both kids smiled and walked into a stall together.

Bren: Ann will you hold my coat?
Annie: Sure, I'm going to keep my jacket on cause it's chilly.
Bren: It is a bit cold out.
Bren: Thanks

They head out to wash their hands. I'm totally loving this moment and stand in the all to listen.

Bren: You need to wash your hands Annie.
Annie: Nope, I didn't go.
Bren: But you touched things in the bathroom!
Annie: Can you lift me?

I come out and lift her because Brenden is ready to try! All goes well...

Are you kidding me?! I fight with this little angel all the time about everything and in steps my 6 year old boy and makes it all better!!! Little miracles...

Christmas in Florida

Our trip to Florida wouldn't have been complete unless we made a trip to the beach! I'd forgotten how beautiful the Gulf Coast really is! It was a balmy 67 degrees and we loved every minute of it! Brenden spent his time digging or chasing the seagulls away, while Annie made houses with Uncle Doug. The water was freezing but the sun was warm! A great way to end our vacation!

What a face!!!

Maybe an engineer in the future?

This family packed into our van with our dog and headed to Florida for Christmas. Yep, we drove the 26 hours to be with family for the big day! We did split the drive into 2 days. We drove the 10 hours to Winchester, VA to spend the "night" (5 hours doesn't really cut it) with my sister and Shane. Then spent 16 hours driving the next day all the way down to Cape Coral, FL. The drive went really well. I am surprised as to how well we all handled being in a car (and that close to each other) for that long! We made it without injury or major problems!

Christmas morning came quickly for this family! The kids were ready for all that the day promised. Now this is where I will continue to struggle. I don't want the message of Christmas to be endless presents, but it seems that I am fighting an uphill battle! Regardless, the family had a great day opening presents and visiting with family! Troy's uncle Doug came over for most of the day and Annie absolutely fell in love with him!

We spent the next four days lounging in the pool and eating our way around the house! It really was a great vacation!

It was a great trip for all of us! Troy and I got some much needed rest and the kids loved being with the grandparents. Family time is wonderful!

BIG snow!

I love the snow!! I just can't get enough of the stuff. Many people think I'm crazy, but I do love the snow. Unfortunately this year I'm having trouble fitting into my snow clothes, so I'm stuck enjoying it through my little family!

This last snow was a real doozy! We got just around a foot of snow! Bren was in heaven! He played in it all day. I had to force him inside. Annie was out for about 7 minutes and declared that she was done (she's an indoor kinda girl). It was beautiful plus it got me a lovely snow day off from school!

Baking cookies

Do you love the faces?!

Every year we bake Christmas cookies. This year was no different. Brenden is a great big help in the kitchen and really loves to bake, Annie on the other hand likes to help for about 10 minutes and then she's done. It's OK, because she then turns her attention to all the dirty dishes we've made! All turns out lovely!