Wizard of Oz 2018

I've read it before...and I always think of it any time I'm worried about spending too much money on a trip that I don't think we can afford or something to that effect.  But there's a quote from someone that says "Collect memories not things."  It's stuck with me ever since I heard it for the first time.  We live in such a THING driven world.  We want MORE.  More clothes, more house, more THINGS... and I love the reminder to invest in experiences instead of things.  Life is so much sweeter that way!

A couple years ago my sweet friend, Tara, started a tradition of taking her daughter to the Nutcracker play each year with friends...as they have grown, that tradition has gotten bigger and even though this is just our second year going, it's been so sweet to be a part of! 

Last night I took both bigs to dinner and to the play The Wizard of Oz...it was great, such fun memories and Laiken did even better than I ever expected!  We lasted through the first act (barely) and had to leave at intermission before the meltdowns ensued! But it was a perfect evening getting to spend some intentional time with my two big kids! Already looking forward to next year!

Kai-Man the Fly-Man

We were at the park playing today... and I started singing a song...you know as moms do - silly entertainment for the kids okay! Anyway, I was using the nicknames that we use for the kids.  I got to Kai and now I can't even remember exactly what I said, but he told me "No! It's Kai-man the Fly-man!" Hahaha...guys it made me laugh and smile so big! This kid really is so fly.  I freakin' love him, love his style, and most of all I love his heart.  Sure I see all the downright evil parts of his heart on the daily (can you say threenager?!)  But deep down in there I see the planted seed of Hope that I've always prayed for, when he cares for others, namely his sisters.  He can be so sweet and gentle with them.  The other day he offered to give me his LAST m&m!  Guys...I wouldn't even do that!! He's got an old soul that loves to be cuddled and taken care of, he'll ask to have his back patted to sleep and "sing sunshine 3 times"!  He's got a very special place in my heart and he's easy on the eyes that's for sure! 

My Laiken girl in the Sunflowers

You belong among the wildflowers

You belong in a boat out at sea

You belong with your love on your arm

You belong somewhere you feel free

My Laiken girl,

I hope you always know your worth, there will be days you don't feel it, but you must always know it.  I pray you know the Lord made you even more beautiful than the sunflowers, he gave you a hope and a purpose and his love is never failing.  I pray you never let the world dull the light He gave you, always dance to your favorite beats, always laugh without fear for the future because He holds you.  You will do great things, and I hope you know that your daddy and I are your biggest fans!  You make our world that much brighter because you're in it! I love you so sweet girl!

Albuquerque October 2018

Sometimes we get dressed up, but the kids always have better style than I ever could! I mean seriously with those overalls, Laiken!!  And I'm not even gonna talk about Kai.  I seriously want to be as cool as them when I grow up! 

All the kids clothes are from H&M!

Kai's shoes are from Target

Aric's shoes and jeans are from Target and his shirt is from H&M

My leggings are Lulu Lemon, Top is The Ash, Shoes are Target and coat is H&M.

Nixon | 6 months

So what if she hates me for these when she's older?  Literally the cutest little baby bum I ever did see!

Stop growing sweet girl!  She's trying so hard to crawl. She's sitting up on her own.  She's eating baby food.  I feel like time is moving such a rapid pace I can't even keep up!  Goodness I'm so glad I will have these photos of her for a lifetime.  Slow down Nixie girl!  I need you to stay my baby forever!

Nixon | 8 days New

We didn't even attempt to get a full family photo during Nixon's newborn photos, but I'm so so thankful that Debs came over, fixed my hair and made sure I was in some of the newborn photos with Nixon.  She's my last baby! (cue all the tears) And as much heartache and stress that was caused when we found out we were unexpectedly pregnant (again) with a third baby in 3 years - the second I laid eyes on her, all my doubts went away.  I'll save that story for another time when I'm feeling a little more vulnerable, but for now I'm just going to look at these photos with thanks and praise in my heart.  The Lord gives good gifts and Nixon is definitely that!  A treasured gift from the Lord.  Thankful he chose me, and thankful His ways are better than my own.  He is good.