A Little Camping?

We were suppose to go camping this weekend, BUT because we had a "coughing" kid and Mazillion things to do, we decided to build a campfire in our backyard and rough it outside for a few hours. We LAUGHED so hard at the kids. They played a hide and seek game where one kid hides then everyone looks for him. When you find him you are suppose to hide with him until one person is left trying to find them. It was SOOO funny! Also, we really enjoyed our smores...as you can see Jennifer had the stickiest fingers. She didn't read smores 101 where you are not aloud to touch the actual marshmallow with your fingers...only the graham crackers make contact. Abby was in the house asleep, and Rhea (as you can see) snuggled up instead of play games. What blessings we have! And sooo much better being able to run in the house and use the potty, or wash your hands or change your shirt. We tried to get Isaac and Joseph to sleep outside in the tent...but they opted for the playroom instead. Maybe next year :)!!! Here are some pics!

A Day in the Life of a 16-month-old

If your life is boring, drab, or otherwise uneventful, may I suggest getting a 16-month-old. If you don't want any down time, or are bored on how things stay where they belong, I suggest getting a 16-month-old. There are no garauntees however, I'm just going off the experience of one particular cutie: ABBY MAE.

Yep, a typical day has these events in them. (all are true accounts, no names or identities have been changed)

"Where's Abby?" "Oh cute, she found a mickey mouse straw, haven't seen that since the move last spring." "Where's Abby?" Here she comes out of the bathroom with a wet mickey mouse straw and water all over her and the toilet. I guess she was trying to see how a straw worked, and being innovative, there was water she could reach easily. (thank God it was flushed)

After taking the trash out, I go to the pantry to get another bag to put in the can. There is the box, where are the bags? I know I bought a brand new box last week, I couldn't have used all of them. After investigation I found that Abby enjoys pulling out the bags and putting them IN the trash can. At least she knows where they go.

This particular 16-month-old is highly intelligent and knows how to escape an adult size house. On a few occasions I'm in the kitchen doing dishes,thinking Abby is in the play room. I see a streak of pink go past the window. After a double take, there she is on an afternoon stroll-BY HERSELF OUTSIDE! Those of you that need adreniline rushes, or a kick for the kicker---this 16-month-old episode will do it everytime---especially when she's running straight for the road.


I can honestly say there has not been a peice of furniture she has not climb onto the highest point. I find random toys, pacifiers, sippy cups chewed carrots, grapes and other half eaten goodies in my kitchen drawers, bathroom counters, toy boxes and anywhere that stuff should not be. (and usually months after the fact...ok so I think it was a carrot)

Her favorite thing to do is pull stuff out--out of chest of drawers, tissue boxes, dog bowls, toy boxes, office desks, craft areas, and sister's hair. This must be a talent. How can we use this. If I ask her, she usually will put stuff back in...what's the use though?

One good thing about having a 16-month-old is that I get to use my sweeping skills. I have to sweep the kitchen floor at least 4 times a day or she starts eating left overs. And trust me, just because I sweep doesn't mean I get everything. Remember she hides things. (see above paragraph)


All in all, our life is full. Our particular 16-month-old is funny, playful, smart, and a true joy to be around. She loves baths, toothbrushes, babies and Q-tips. She is a TRUE blessing. I'd love to loan her out to anyone thinking about getting one. I hear the return on them is amazing. I'm already reaping some of it!--especially when we pray ANYWHERE, she will grab my hand and bow her head.

Texas State Fair

So, Marty goes on this men retreat and I get a hairbrain idea to get Isaac out of school and take all three kids, by myself to the Texas State Fair. Which happened to be opening day and one of the hottest September days yet!

The kids love it, and I actually have a great time with my kids...I actually like them :) Here are a few photos of them at the "farm" gig. They had so much fun.

So basically I wasted a lot of space to say I love my kids and I praise God I have them! Although I know they need an occasional whack upside the head, that darn sinful nature :) I'm so blessed to have them. The fair is until October 21, if you want to go, call me and I'll pack up the stroller and meet ya there!