This is a book we love around here.

These photos remind me of the story:

We’ re going on a bear hunt.

We’ re going to catch a big one.

What a beautiful day! 

We’re not scared.

Oh-Oh! Grass!

Long, wavy grass.

We can’t go over it.

We can’t go under it.

Oh no!

We’ve got to go through it!

Swishy Swashy!

She is still acquiring plenty of pink and I am slowly adjusting.

I am even learning to like the color.

Like in this new dress her cousin Lauren picked out.

Or the pink pig she is in love with.

I know because it gets covered in drool.

There are many routines and practices I wish I were better at:

cooking home made meals every night,

keeping my word,

lowering my voice instead of raising my voice when upset…

but I can admit that I am proud of our bedtime book reading.

Both of our boys love to curl up and read along or listen to stories read aloud.

A tradition that I have fond memories of from my own childhood.

There’s a regular dose of Goodnight Moon and favorite authors like Tommie dePaola and Donald Crews.

What are you reading at bedtime?

we sit on blankets

trade off holding baby,

listen to construction play

and enjoy the breeze.

Last night we stayed up late…

which meant we slept in and then stumbled over to the playground

and realized the boys have suddenlty vacated the “baby” swings because they are big and brave.

Paul had the biggest smile on his face when he pointed out someone left their powerwheels car and then I read the note left on it…FREE (charger inside seat and still works).

I managed to sneak out and get a manicure for myself. Huge Splurge!

We had our church service at the beach

with singing

and baptizing

and eating

and a sunset.

I have bragged before about my talented friend Janet and her amazing photography skills.

Here is a peek of her magic from last week.

We hung out in the bedroom

and then the living room

these last two are my favorites:

This might be my first photo of all five of us

which I intend on framing.

makes a baby’s head turn and eyes close.

requires the appropriate attire.

warms the water like a bath tub, in the shallow parts.

shines bright like these smiles.

fades the latest rub on tattoo.

chills even the smallest of toes.

invites little ones to strip down.

est très magnifique!

roll out the dough,

cut up the veggies.

spread the sauce,

add all the toppings,

bake for ten minutes,

and enjoy.

I sometimes forget that this is a part of parenting.

The privilege of on-going company to play games with.

The privilege of sharing a blanket

and a couch.

The privilege to share food and silverware.

The privilege to sit beside someone and be comfortable in the silence.

The privilege to wait patiently as frustration boils over and the privilege to embrace with open arms (over and over again) the loving boy who is learning that sometimes life is unfair

The privilege to teach balance and practice and strength.

The privilege to encourage imaginative and dramatic play.

The privilege to raise children.

ladybug tickles

as they crawl on bare baby skin.

tribute to the Beastie Boys with the photography angle.

eyelashes that are longer than both her brothers, so I find myself staring at her as she stares at the trees overhead. 

toenails that require the most careful trimming.

baby breathing sounds in my ear.